bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tribological Properties of Ni/Cu/Ni Coating on the Ti-6Al-4V Alloy after Annealing at Various Temperatures
Authors: Luo Jinheng , Wang Nan , Zhu Lixia , Wu Gang , Li Lifeng , Yang Miao , Zhang Long , Chen Yongnan
Published: February 2020

Diffusion reaction was a crucial route to enhance the wear resistance of Ti-6Al-4V alloys surface. In this work, the Ni/Cu/Ni composite layers were fabricated on the surface of Ti-6Al-4V alloy by electroplate craft, and then different annealing temperatures were applied to further optimize its tribological properties. The diffusion behaviors at various temperatures were systematically analyzed to reveal the physical mechanism of the enhanced tribological properties of the coatings. It was demonstrated that CuxTiy and NixTiy intermetallic compounds with high hardness and strength were produced in the Ni/Cu/Ni coating, which acted as the reinforcing phases and improved the microhardness, reduced the friction coefficient, and lessened the wear rate. Specially, this effect reached the maximum when the annealing temperature was 800 °C, showing excellent wear resistance. This work revealed the relationship between annealing temperatures and tribological properties of the Ni/Cu/Ni coating, and proposed wear mechanism, aiming to improve the surface performance of Ti-6Al-4V alloy by appropriate diffusion behavior.
Profile of CO2, CO, and H2 Emissions from Thermal Oxidation of Polish Coals
Authors: Wojtacha-Rychter Karolina , Smoliński Adam
Published: February 2020

The self-heating phenomenon of coal leads to work safety hazards in underground mining. The quantitative analysis of gaseous products in mine atmosphere constitutes one of the detection methods of advanced coal heating. The article presents the results of tests on CO, CO2, and H2 emissions during simulated heating of coal in the temperature range of 323–523 K. The oxidation of 15 Polish coals of various carbon contents was performed using a flow reactor technique. A chromatography method was applied to measure the changes of oxidation products concentrations with the increase of temperature. It has been determined that all the tested gases were generated at the initial temperature. The collected data indicated that CO2 was a major oxidation product in the entire temperature range, while the amounts of H2 produced did not exceed 0.49% volume. At the temperature of 323 K, the ratio of CO2/CO was in the range of 10–23 but along with the temperature increase the ratio range narrowed to 3–4. In this paper, a comparison of the physical-chemical properties of the tested coals and the emissions profile of the gases using, among others, the hierarchical clustering analysis showed that samples with higher oxygen, sulfur, and inertinite content as well as lower ash and carbon content formed larger amounts of fire gases.
The Impact of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Male (In)Fertility
Authors: Pinho Ana Rita , Rebelo Sandra , Pereira Maria de Lourdes
Published: February 2020

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are among nanoscale materials, attracting increasing attention owing to their exceptional set of characteristics, which makes these engineered nanoparticles a great option for improving the quality and effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment. The capacity of ZnO NPs to induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, DNA damage, and apoptosis represents a promise for their use in both cancer therapy and microbial treatment. However, their intrinsic toxicity together with their easy entrance and accumulation in organism have raised some concerns regarding the biomedical use of these NPs. Several studies have reported that ZnO NPs might induce cytotoxic effects on the male reproductive system, compromising male fertility. Despite some advances in this area, the knowledge of the effects of ZnO NPs on male fertility is still scarce. Overall, a brief outline of the major ZnO NPs biomedical applications and promises in terms of diagnostic and therapeutic use will also be explored. Further, this review intends to discuss the effect of ZnO NPs exposure on the male reproductive system and speculate their effects on male (in)fertility.
Mechanical Properties of Concrete Containing Liquefied Red Mud Subjected to Uniaxial Compression Loads
Authors: Choe Gyeongcheol , Kang Sukpyo , Kang Hyeju
Published: February 2020

This study used liquefied red mud (RM) sludge, an aluminum industry by-product, as a construction material. Accordingly, various methods were examined that used the fabricated liquefied red mud (LRM) as an admixture for concrete, and the mechanical properties of concrete were then evaluated according to the cement type and the amount of LRM. The LRM mixing methods (replacement and addition) were compared, and the slump and compressive strengths of concrete were evaluated for each method. To examine the mechanical properties according to the cement type and the amount of LRM, two types of cement (ordinary Portland cement and slag cement (SC)) were used, and 20 and 40 wt% LRM (with respect to the cement weight) were added. The mechanical properties of the stress–strain curve (SSC), compressive strength, peak strain, and elastic modulus were quantified. When the slump and compressive strength of concrete were considered based on the experimental results, the addition LRM mixing method was recommended as the appropriate method for LRM. As the addition of LRM increased, the mechanical properties of concrete degraded. However, when SC was used, the mechanical properties did not significantly change when different amounts of LRM were added (up to 20%). In addition, the SSC of LRM concrete could be approximated based on the use of the relationship of the compressive strength and peak strain according to the cement type and the amount of LRM.
Strengthening Behavior of Cemented Paste Backfill Using Alkali-Activated Slag Binders and Bottom Ash Based on the Response Surface Method
Authors: Sun Qi , Wei Xueda , Li Tianlong , Zhang Lu
Published: February 2020

A new type of cemented paste backfill (CPB) was prepared by using the bottom ash (BA) from a thermal power plant as an aggregate, alkali-activated slag as a binder, and an air-entraining agent as an admixture. Based on the central composite design (CCD) response surface method, the mix ratio was optimized, and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) was performed on the optimal mix ratio. ImageJ software was utilized to determine the porosity of the experimental samples at various curing ages. The results indicate that the optimal mix ratio of the aggregate-binder ratio is 3.28, the alkali dosage is 3%, the solid content is 67.44%, and the air-entraining agent dosage is 0.1%. As the curing age increases, the porosity of CPB gradually decreases. A calcium aluminosilicate hydrate (C-A-S-H) gel is the main hydration product of alkali-activated slag. At the beginning of the hydration reaction, the slag gradually dissolves, and the C-A-S-H product binds the BA together. At 14 d, complete calcium hydroxide (CH) crystals appeared in the hydration product. Finally, the degree of C-A-S-H crystallization increased further to form a dense structure.
Equal-Channel Angular Extrusion (ECAE): From a Laboratory Curiosity to an Industrial Technology
Authors: Segal Vladimir
Published: February 2020

This paper presents a state-of-the-art and a retrospective view of the critical stages in the evolution of equal-channel angular extrusion (ECAE) from the original idea to a cost-effective industrial technology. These stages include optimization of the structure modification and material processing, development of the special tools, process commercialization, and a large-scale validation of the semi-continuous ECAE at the industrial floor. All aspects are extensively summarized, based on the author’s experience in the field, which spans almost half of a century. Special attention is paid to the processing of large batch billets. Practical examples illustrate industrial applications of ECAE. The scope for future development is also discussed.
Effect of Sign-Alternating Cyclic Polarisation and Hydrogen Uptake on the Localised Corrosion of X70 Pipeline Steel in Near-Neutral Solutions
Authors: Rybkina Alevtina , Gladkikh Natalia , Marshakov Andrey , Petrunin Maxim , Nazarov Andrei
Published: February 2020

The effect of sign-alternating cycling polarisation (SACP) on the localised corrosion of X70pipeline steel in solutions of various compositions was studied. Localised corrosion of steel at anodic potentials was accelerated with an increase in the duration of the cathodic half-cycle, in the presence of a promoter of hydrogen absorption in aqueous electrolyte, and with an increase in the concentrations of chloride and bicarbonate ions. It was pointed out that the corrosion rate is determined by the amount of hydrogen absorbed by the steel. A quantitative indicator to determine the intensity of localised corrosion under SACP was suggested.
Enhancing the Mechanical Properties of AZ80 Alloy by Combining Extrusion and Three Pass Calibre Rolling
Authors: Meng Shuaiju , Yu Hui , Zhou Jun , Han Haisheng , Li Yongyan , Dong Lishan , Nan Xiaolong , Li Zhongjie , Shin Kwang Seon , Zhao Weimin
Published: February 2020

An AZ80 alloy with ultra-high strength and good ductility has been successfully prepared by a novel processing route of combining extrusion and caliber rolling. The caliber rolled (CRed) AZ80 alloy has a necklace grain structure with ultrafine dynamic recrystallized (DRXed) grains formed around the micro-scale deformed grains, which is remarkably different from the uniform microstructure of as-extruded sample free from caliber rolling. In addition, both the deformed region and the DRXed part in CRed AZ80 alloy exhibit more random basal texture than that of the as-extruded sample. Furthermore, the CRed AZ80 alloy demonstrates an excellent comprehensive mechanical property with the ultimate tensile strength of 446MPa and elongation of 13%, respectively. These good mechanical properties of CRed AZ80 alloy can be attributed to the synthetic effects of necklace bimodal microstructure containing ultra-fine grains, profuse Mg17Al12 precipitates, and the modified texture.
Thixoforming and Rheo-Die-Casting of A356/SiC Composite
Authors: Talangkun Sukangkana , Potisawang Charinrat , Saenpong Phuriphut
Published: February 2020

This research investigated the rheo-die-casting process and the production of an A356/silicon carbide (SiC) composite by a thixoforming. The composite contained 15 percent by weight SiC particles of around 15–37 µm in size as the reinforcing phase. The composite feedstock was produced by semi-solid stir-casting, where pretreated SiC powder was gradually added into the A356 alloy melt to form a continuously stirred slurry composite melt, which was then cast in a steel mold. For thixoforming, the feedstock was reheated to 583 °C (approximately 0.4 fraction liquid), and its viscosity was reduced with shear rate, implying that A356/SiC exhibits shear thinning or non-Newtonian behavior. This is caused by the characteristic billet structure obtained having relatively globular grains that accommodate the flow of the semisolid composite. In the rheo-die-casting process, the A356/SiC feedstock was re-melted at 610–615 °C (approximately 0.8–0.9 fraction liquid) prior to die-casting and the resulting slurry was injected into a die with injection speeds of 3 and 4 m/s and pressures of 11 and 12 MPa, respectively. Two work-pieces of 16 × 15.6 × 205 mm3 were produced in one shot, and the resulting samples were subjected to T6 solution treatment at 540 °C for 1 h, quenched, and aged at 135 °C for 12 h. The results show that both low speed and low pressure rheo-die-cast samples exhibit uneven filling at the end of the part, whilst both high pressure and high speed promote more uniform distribution of SiC particles throughout the part length. In the as-rheo-die-cast condition, the most uniform of microstructures and hardness obtained from a sample fabricated at 4 m/s speed and 12 MPa pressure.
Minimising Defect Formation in Sand Casting of Sheet Lead: A DoE Approach
Authors: Prabhakar Arun , Papanikolaou Michail , Salonitis Konstantinos , Jolly Mark
Published: February 2020

Sand casting of lead sheet is a traditional manufacturing process used up to the present due to the special features of sand cast sheet such as their attractive sheen. Similarly to any casting process, sand casting of lead sheet suffers from the presence of surface defects. In this study, a surface defect type, hereby referred to as ‘grooves’, has been investigated. The focus has been laid on the identification of the main factors affecting defect formation in this process. Based on a set of screening experiments performed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) as well as the existing literature, a number of factors affecting the formation of such defects was identified and their corresponding significance was estimated using the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) technique. The obtained results suggest that the most significant factor affecting defect formation in sand casting of lead sheet is the composition of the moulding mixture. Defect formation was also proven to be dependent on the sand grain fineness, the quality of the melt and some of the interactions between the aforementioned process parameters. Finally, an optimal set of process parameters leading to the minimisation of surface defects was identified.
Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils against Staphylococcus and Malassezia Strains Isolated from Canine Dermatitis
Authors: Ebani Valentina Virginia , Bertelloni Fabrizio , Najar Basma , Nardoni Simona , Pistelli Luisa , Mancianti Francesca
Published: February 2020

Staphylococcus spp. bacteria are the most frequently involved agents in canine cutaneous infections. Treatment of these infections is based on antibiotic therapy, that often is not effective because of the antibiotic-resistance of the bacterial strains. Cutaneous staphylococcal infections are often complicated by Malassezia yeasts, that may be resistant to the conventional antifungal drugs. The present investigation was aimed to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of some essential oils (EOs) in view of a potential cutaneous application. In detail, EOs obtained from lemon verbena (Aloysia triphylla L’Hèr. Britton), cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum J. Presl), myrrh (Commiphora myrrha (Nees) Engl. var. molmol), lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf), litsea (Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers.), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.), oregano (Origanum vulgare L.), savory (Satureja montana L.), and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) were assayed against Staphylococcus spp. and Malassezia pachydermatis strains previously isolated from dogs with dermatitis. All EOs were tested by agar disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration methods to verify the antistaphylococcal activity, and by a microdilution method to evaluate the activity against M. pachydermatis. O. vulgare, T. vulgaris, and S. montana showed the best antibacterial activity against all the selected strains, with MICs ranging from 0.29 to 0.58 mg/mL, from 0.58 to 1.16 mg/mL, and from 0.56 to 1.12 mg/mL, respectively, whereas A. triphylla (1.03 mg/mL) and S. montana (1.8 mg/mL) were the most active against M. pachydermatis. After a proper in vivo evaluation, O. vulgare, T. vulgaris, and S. montana EOs could be a promising treatment to combat canine cutaneous mixed infections.
XRD Identification of Ore Minerals during Cruises: Refinement of Extraction Procedure with Sodium Acetate Buffer
Authors: Milinovic Jelena , Dias Ágata Alveirinho , Janeiro Ana I. , Pereira Manuel F. C. , Martins Sofia , Petersen Sven , Barriga Fernando J. A. S.
Published: February 2020

The on-board identification of ore minerals during a cruise is often postponed until long after the cruise is over. During the M127 cruise, 21 cores with deep-seafloor sediments were recovered in the Trans-Atlantic Geotraverse (TAG) field along the Mid Atlantic Ridge (MAR). Sediments were analyzed on-board for physicochemical properties such as lightness (L*), pH and Eh. Selected samples were studied for mineral composition by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). Based on XRD data, sediment samples were separated into high-, low- and non-carbonated. Removal of carbonates is a common technique in mineralogical studies in which HCl is used as the extraction agent. In the present study, sequential extraction was performed with sodium acetate buffer (pH 5.0) to remove carbonates. The ratio between the highest calcite XRD reflection in the original samples (Iorig) vs its XRD-reflection in samples after their treatment with the buffer (Itreat) was used as a quantitative parameter of calcite removal, as well as to identify minor minerals in carbonated samples (when Iorig/Itreat > 24). It was found that the lightness parameter (L*) showed a positive correlation with calcite XRD reflection in selected TAG samples, and this could be applied to the preliminary on-board determination of extraction steps with acetate buffer (pH 5.0) in carbonated sediment samples. The most abundant minerals detected in carbonated samples were quartz and Al- and Fe-rich clays. Other silicates were also detected (e.g., calcic plagioclase, montmorillonite, nontronite). In non-carbonated samples, Fe oxides and hydroxides (goethite and hematite, respectively) were detected. Pyrite was the dominant hydrothermal mineral and Cu sulfides (chalcopyrite, covellite) and hydrothermal Mn oxides (birnessite and todorokite) were mineral phases identified in few samples, whereas paratacamite was detected in the top 20 cm of the core. The present study demonstrates that portable XRD analysis makes it possible to characterize mineralogy at cored sites, in particular in both low- and high-carbonated samples, before the end of most cruises, thus enabling the quick modification of exploration strategies in light of new information as it becomes available in near-real time.
The Formation of Dunite Channels within Harzburgite in the Wadi Tayin Massif, Oman Ophiolite: Insights from Compositional Variability of Cr-Spinel and Olivine in Holes BA1B and BA3A, Oman Drilling Project
Authors: Cocomazzi Giuseppe , Grieco Giovanni , Tartarotti Paola , Bussolesi Micol , Zaccarini Federica , Crispini Laura , Science Team Oman Drilling Project
Published: February 2020

Holes BA1B and BA3A were drilled into the Wadi Tayin Massif, southern ophiolite complex of Oman, a fragment of the Tethyan oceanic lithosphere obducted onto the Arabian continent. Within the sequence, we have studied a portion of the shallow mantle, composed mainly of strongly serpentinised harzburgite that embeds dunitic levels, the biggest being over 150 m thick. The formation of thick dunitic channels, already approached via published structural and mathematical models, is here investigated with a mineral chemistry approach. We focused on Cr-spinel, the only widespread phase preserved during serpentinization, whose TiO2 content displays a wide variability from low in harzburgite, (TiO2 < 0.25 wt. %), typical of non-metasomatised ophiolite mantle, to moderately high in dunite (TiO2 < 1.10 wt. %) characterizing a rock/melt interactions. The high variability of TiO2, accompanied by similar patterns of Cr# and Mg# is observed, in a fractal pattern, at all scales of investigation, from the whole channel scale to the single thin section, where it affects even single grain zonings. Our results suggest that the over 150 m thick dunite channel here investigated was formed by coalescence of different scale melt channels and reaction zones with different sizes, confirming the published structural model.
Green Synthesized Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Ameliorate Defence and Antioxidant Enzymes in Lens culinaris
Authors: Sarkar Joy , Chakraborty Nilanjan , Chatterjee Arindam , Bhattacharjee Avisek , Dasgupta Disha , Acharya Krishnendu
Published: February 2020

Biosynthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) in a cost-effective and eco-friendly way has gained its importance. CuONPs has been prepared from copper sulfate by using Adiantum lunulatum whole plant extract. CuONPs have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic, transmission electron microscope, etc. Mono-disperse, spherical, pure, and highly stable CuONPs have formed with an average diameter of 6.5 ± 1.5 nm. Biosynthesized CuONPs at different concentrations were applied to seeds of Lens culinaris. Physiological characteristics were investigated in the germinated seeds. Roots obtained from the seeds treated with 0.025 mgmL−1 concentration of CuONPs showed highest activity of different defence enzymes and total phenolics. However, at higher concentration it becomes close to control. It showed gradual increase of antioxidative enzymes, in accordance with the increasing dose of CuONPs. Likewise, lipid peroxidation and proline content gradually increased with the increasing concentration. Reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide generation was also altered due to CuONPs treatment indicating stress signal transduction. Finally, this study provides a new approach of the production of valuable CuONPs, is a unique, economical, and handy tool for large scale saleable production which can also be used as a potent plant defence booster instead of other commercial uses.
In-Situ Gold–Ceria Nanoparticles: Superior Optical Fluorescence Quenching Sensor for Dissolved Oxygen
Authors: Shehata Nader , Kandas Ishac , Samir Effat
Published: February 2020

Cerium oxide (ceria) nanoparticles (NPs) have been proved to be an efficient optical fluorescent material through generating visible emission (~530 nm) under violet excitation. This feature allowed ceria NPs to be used as an optical sensor via the fluorescence quenching Technique. In this paper, the impact of in-situ embedded gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) inside ceria nanoparticles was studied. Then, gold–ceria NPs were used for sensing dissolved oxygen (DO) in aqueous media. It was observed that both fluorescence intensity and lifetime were changed due to increased concentration of DO. Added gold was found to enhance the sensitivity of ceria to DO quencher detection. This enhancement was due to optical coupling between the fluorescence emission spectrum of ceria with the surface plasmonic resonance of gold nanoparticles. In addition, gold caused the decrease of ceria nanoparticles’ bandgap, which indicates the formation of more oxygen vacancies inside the non-stoichiometric crystalline structure of ceria. The Stern–Volmer constant, which indicates the sensitivity of optical sensing material, of ceria–gold NPs with added DO was found to be 893.7 M−1, compared to 184.6 M−1 to in case of ceria nanoparticles only, which indicates a superior optical sensitivity to DO compared to other optical sensing materials used in the literature to detect DO. Moreover, the fluorescence lifetime was found to be changed according to the variation of added DO concentration. The optically-sensitivity-enhanced ceria nanoparticles due to embedded gold nanoparticles can be a promising sensing host for dissolved oxygen in a wide variety of applications including biomedicine and water quality monitoring.
Surface-Dependent Osteoblasts Response to TiO2 Nanotubes of Different Crystallinity
Authors: Khrunyk Yuliya Y. , Belikov Sergey V. , Tsurkan Mikhail V. , Vyalykh Ivan V. , Markaryan Alexandr Y. , Karabanalov Maxim S. , Popov Artemii A. , Wysokowski Marcin
Published: February 2020

One of the major challenges of implantology is to design nanoscale modifications of titanium implant surfaces inducing osseointegration. The aim of this study was to investigate the behavior of rat osteoblasts cultured on anodized TiO2 nanotubes of different crystallinity (amorphous and anatase phase) up to 24 days. TiO2 nanotubes were fabricated on VT1–0 titanium foil via a two-step anodization at 20 V using NH4F as an electrolyte. Anatase-phase samples were prepared by heat treatment at 500 °C for 1 h. VT1–0 samples with flat surfaces were used as controls. Primary rat osteoblasts were seeded over experimental surfaces for several incubation times. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze tested surfaces and cell morphology. Cell adhesion and proliferation were investigated by cell counting. Osteogenic differentiation of cells was evaluated by qPCR of runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), osteopontin (OPN), integrin binding sialoprotein (IBSP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OCN). Cell adhesion and proliferation, cell morphology and the expression of osteogenic markers were affected by TiO2 nanotube layered substrates of amorphous and anatase crystallinity. In comparison with flat titanium, along with increased cell adhesion and cell growth a large portion of osteoblasts grown on the both nanostructured surfaces exhibited an osteocyte-like morphology as early as 48 h of culture. Moreover, the expression of all tested osteogenic markers in cells cultured on amorphous and anatase TiO2 nanotubes was upregulated at least at one of the analyzed time points. To summarize, we demonstrated that amorphous and anodized TiO2 layered substrates are highly biocompatible with rat osteoblasts and that the surface modification with about 1500 nm length nanotubes of 35 ± 4 (amorphous phase) and 41 ± 8 nm (anatase phase) in diameter is sufficient to induce their osteogenic differentiation. Such results are significant to the engineering of coating strategies for orthopedic implants aimed to establish a more efficient bone to implant contact and enhance bone repair.
Phenolic Composition, Mineral Content, and Beneficial Bioactivities of Leaf Extracts from Black Currant (Ribes nigrum L.), Raspberry (Rubus idaeus), and Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa)
Authors: Staszowska-Karkut Monika , Materska Małgorzata
Published: February 2020

Currently, the incidence of lifestyle diseases is increasing due to inappropriate nutrition and environmental pollution. To prevent these diseases, various groups of bioactive compounds are needed with a broad spectrum of action and without adverse side effects. Polyphenolic compounds are the most widely studied group of this type of compounds. They occur widely in plants, but their content depends on many factors, including the type of plant, climatic conditions, and the date of harvest. The spectrum of bioactivity of phenolic compounds is determined by their chemical structure, concentration, and interaction with other compounds. Traditional recipes have been studied to search for active plant ingredients. Leaves of shrubs and fruit trees were used in folk medicine as a panacea for many diseases and have been forgotten with time, but their benefits are now being rediscovered. In recent years, much new information about biological activity of phenolic compounds from berry bushes (black currant, raspberry, and aronia) was published. This was reviewed and discussed in this article. The mineral content of their leaves was also summarized because minerals constitute a significant component of plant infusions. It has been shown that high antioxidant and biological activity of leaf extracts results from the presence of active phenolic compounds, which occur in definitely higher amounts than in fruits. Therefore, the leaves of berry bushes seem to be a promising source of substances that can be used as replacements for synthetic agents in the treatment and prevention of lifestyle diseases.
Human Metapneumovirus: A Largely Unrecognized Threat to Human Health
Authors: Russell Charles J. , Penkert Rhiannon R. , Kim Sonnie , Hurwitz Julia L.
Published: February 2020

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infects most children by five years of age. The virus can cause both upper and lower respiratory tract disease and can be life threatening. High-risk populations include young children who are exposed to virus for the first time and the elderly. Currently, there is no standard treatment nor licensed vaccine for HMPV, although several attractive vaccine candidates have been developed for pre-clinical studies. A raised awareness of the impact of HMPV on public health is needed to drive research, complete vaccine development, and thereby prevent significant virus-associated morbidities and mortalities worldwide.
Incidence, Pathotyping, and Antibiotic Susceptibility of Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli among Diseased Broiler Chicks
Authors: Awad Ashraf M. , El-Shall Nahed A. , Khalil Doha S. , El-Hack Mohamed E. Abd , Swelum Ayman A. , Mahmoud Ahmed H. , Ebaid Hossam , Komany Ahmed , Sammour Reda H. , Sedeik Mahmoud E.
Published: February 2020

A total of 54 broiler flocks during the first two weeks of life was used to investigate the incidence of avian pathogenic E. coli in Egypt; 28 isolates (51.85%) were revealed by colony morphology and biochemical identification which then investigated for their serogroups and only 18/28 isolates were serotyped. The most prevalent serotypes were O115, O142, O158, O55, O125, O114, O27, O20, and O15. By application of polymerase chain reaction (PCR), 83.3% (15/18) of the serotyped isolates were confirmed to be E. coli, and 93.3% (14/15), 46.6% (7/15), and 20% (3/15) of isolates harbored the iss, iutA, and fimH genes, respectively. Virulence testing of the selected 13 APEC isolates on the specific-pathogen-free (SPF) chicks revealed them to be highly virulent (15.4%), moderately virulent (23.1%), and avirulent (61.5%); however, all isolates (100%) were extremely virulent towards SPF embryonated chicken eggs. Antibiotic resistance (100% of isolates (n = 13)) was observed for ampicillin, amoxycillin–clavulanic acid, and tetracyclines, colistin (92.31%; 12/13), doxycycline and spiramycin (84.62%; 11/13), florfenicol (69.23%; 9/13), cefotaxime (61.54%; 8/13), and ciprofloxacin (53.85%; 7/13). The highest percentage of sensitivity (53.85% of isolates; 7/13) was recorded for ofloxacin and enrofloxacin followed by gentamycin (46.15%; 6/13). The results suggest that the diagnosis of APEC with PCR is rapid and more accurate than traditional methods for E. coli identification; moreover, the presence or absence of iss, iutA, and/or fimH genes is not an indicator of in vivo pathogenicity of APEC. Thus, further studies, including a wider range of virulence genes and gene sequencing, are required. In addition, serotyping has no effect on the virulence of APEC.
Potential of Bioremediation and PGP Traits in Streptomyces as Strategies for Bio-Reclamation of Salt-Affected Soils for Agriculture
Authors: Romano-Armada Neli , Yañez-Yazlle María Florencia , Irazusta Verónica P. , Rajal Verónica B. , Moraga Norma B.
Published: February 2020

Environmental limitations influence food production and distribution, adding up to global problems like world hunger. Conditions caused by climate change require global efforts to be improved, but others like soil degradation demand local management. For many years, saline soils were not a problem; indeed, natural salinity shaped different biomes around the world. However, overall saline soils present adverse conditions for plant growth, which then translate into limitations for agriculture. Shortage on the surface of productive land, either due to depletion of arable land or to soil degradation, represents a threat to the growing worldwide population. Hence, the need to use degraded land leads scientists to think of recovery alternatives. In the case of salt-affected soils (naturally occurring or human-made), which are traditionally washed or amended with calcium salts, bio-reclamation via microbiome presents itself as an innovative and environmentally friendly option. Due to their low pathogenicity, endurance to adverse environmental conditions, and production of a wide variety of secondary metabolic compounds, members of the genus Streptomyces are good candidates for bio-reclamation of salt-affected soils. Thus, plant growth promotion and soil bioremediation strategies combine to overcome biotic and abiotic stressors, providing green management options for agriculture in the near future.
Dynamics of Classical Swine Fever Spread in Wild Boar in 2018–2019, Japan
Authors: Isoda Norikazu , Baba Kairi , Ito Satoshi , Ito Mitsugi , Sakoda Yoshihiro , Makita Kohei
Published: February 2020

The prolongation of the classic swine fever (CSF) outbreak in Japan in 2018 was highly associated with the persistence and widespread of the CSF virus (CSFV) in the wild boar population. To investigate the dynamics of the CSF outbreak in wild boar, spatiotemporal analyses were performed. The positive rate of CSFV in wild boar fluctuated dramatically from March to June 2019, but finally stabilized at approximately 10%. The Euclidean distance from the initial CSF notified farm to the farthest infected wild boar of the day constantly increased over time since the initial outbreak except in the cases reported from Gunma and Saitama prefectures. The two-month-period prevalence, estimated using integrated nested Laplace approximation, reached >80% in half of the infected areas in March–April 2019. The area affected continued to expand despite the period prevalence decreasing up to October 2019. A large difference in the shapes of standard deviational ellipses and in the location of their centroids when including or excluding cases in Gunma and Saitama prefectures indicates that infections there were unlikely to have been caused simply by wild boar activities, and anthropogenic factors were likely involved. The emergence of concurrent space–time clusters in these areas after July 2019 indicated that CSF outbreaks were scattered by this point in time. The results of this epidemiological analysis help explain the dynamics of the spread of CSF and will aid in the implementation of control measures, including bait vaccination.
Dynamic Network of Interactions in the Wildlife-Livestock Interface in Mediterranean Spain: An Epidemiological Point of View
Authors: Triguero-Ocaña Roxana , Martínez-López Beatriz , Vicente Joaquín , Barasona José A. , Martínez-Guijosa Jordi , Acevedo Pelayo
Published: February 2020

The correct management of diseases that are transmitted between wildlife and livestock requires a reliable estimate of the pathogen transmission rate. The calculation of this parameter is a challenge for epidemiologists, since transmission can occur through multiple pathways. The social network analysis is a widely used tool in epidemiology due to its capacity to identify individuals and communities with relevant roles for pathogen transmission. In the present work, we studied the dynamic network of interactions in a complex epidemiological scenario using information from different methodologies. In 2015, nine red deer, seven fallow deer, six wild boar and nine cattle were simultaneously monitored using GPS-GSM-Proximity collars in Doñana National Park. In addition, 16 proximity loggers were set in aggregation points. Using the social network analysis, we studied the dynamic network of interactions, including direct and indirect interactions, between individuals of different species and the potential transmission of pathogens within this network. The results show a high connection between species through indirect interactions, with a marked seasonality in the conformation of new interactions. Within the network, we differentiated four communities that included individuals of all the species. Regarding the transmission of pathogens, we observed the important role that fallow deer could be playing in the maintenance and transmission of pathogens to livestock. The present work shows the need to consider different types of methodologies in order to understand the complete functioning of the network of interactions at the wildlife/livestock interface. It also provides a methodological approach applicable to the management of shared diseases.
Therapeutic Plasmapheresis with Albumin Replacement in Alzheimer’s Disease and Chronic Progressive Multiple Sclerosis: A Review
Authors: Navarro-Martínez Rut , Cauli Omar
Published: February 2020

Background: Reducing the burden of beta-amyloid accumulation and toxic autoimmunity-related proteins, one of the recognized pathophysiological markers of chronic and common neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and multiple sclerosis (MS), may be a valid alternative therapy to reduce their accumulation in the brain and thus reduce the progression of these disorders. The objective of this review was to evaluate the efficacy of plasmapheresis (PP) in AD and chronic progressive MS patients (in terms of improving clinical symptoms) and to analyze its safety and protocols. Methods: Articles related to this topic and published without time limitations in the Medline, and Cochrane databases were reviewed. Results: In AD patients, PP reduced amyloid beta (Aβ) levels in the brain, accompanied by a tendency towards cognitive stabilization, and improved language and verbal fluency. In regards to structural and functional brain changes, PP reduced brain volume and favored the stabilization, or absence, of the progression of perfusion. In chronic progressive form of MS patients, PP improved neurological deficits in 20–70% of patients with a chronic progressive form of MS, and restored interferon (IFN) responsiveness, which was not accompanied by any image change in brain plaques. Conclusions: Therapeutic plasmapheresis with albumin replacement is a promising strategy for reducing Aβ mediated toxicity and slowing the progression of the disorder. Some patients with chronic progressive forms of MS show improvement in neurological deficits. The features of AD and MS patients who benefit most from this approach need further research.
Metabolic Stability of New Mito-Protective Short-Chain Naphthoquinones
Authors: Feng Zikai , Smith Jason A. , Gueven Nuri , Quirino Joselito P.
Published: February 2020

Short-chain quinones (SCQs) have been identified as potential drug candidates against mitochondrial dysfunction, which is largely dependent on their reversible redox characteristics of the active quinone core. We recently synthesized a SCQ library of > 148 naphthoquinone derivatives and identified 16 compounds with enhanced cytoprotection compared to the clinically used benzoquinone idebenone. One of the major drawbacks of idebenone is its high metabolic conversion in the liver, which significantly restricts its therapeutic activity. Therefore, this study assessed the metabolic stability of the 16 identified naphthoquinone derivatives 1–16 using hepatocarcinoma cells in combination with an optimized reverse-phase liquid chromatography (RP-LC) method. Most of the derivatives showed significantly better stability than idebenone over 6 hours (p < 0.001). By extending the side-chain of SCQs, increased stability for some compounds was observed. Metabolic conversion from the derivative 3 to 5 and reduced idebenone metabolism in the presence of 5 were also observed. These results highlight the therapeutic potential of naphthoquinone-based SCQs and provide essential insights for future drug design, prodrug therapy and polytherapy, respectively.
Latin American Christians Living in the Basque Country (Spain): What Remains and What Changes
Authors: Rodríguez Lidia , Uriarte Luzio , Basterretxea Iziar
Published: February 2020

The research we will present is based on interviews conducted with the Latin American immigrant population and the indigenous population of the Basque Autonomous Community (BAC hereafter). We seek to identify religious features tracing similarities and differences between three populations: First, the native community of the BAC, second, Latin American immigrants living in the BAC, and third, Latin Americans in their home countries. In the latter case, we based on the research carried out by Gustavo Morello’s team. Analysis of the data obtained so far allows us to compare across two different processes in the Christian religion: On the one hand, the religious experience of Latin Americans in their countries of origin and the religious experience of Latin American immigrants in the BAC; on the other hand, between the latter community and the native population. This paper highlights conclusions referring: (1) The similarities in two significant processes, i.e., religious pluralism and religious autonomy; (2) the differences on religious hybridization, public presence and the use of religious artefacts. In short, it is a contribution to a better understanding of the effects produced on religious experiences in a context marked by secularization and religious pluralism.
Small Houses, Big Community: Tiny Housers’ Desire for More Cohesive and Collaborative Communities
Authors: Willoughby Chelsey , Mangold Severin , Zschau Toralf
Published: February 2020

Past research on the tiny house movement has primarily focused on understanding the individual motivations behind adopting the tiny house lifestyle. While some studies have suggested that tiny housers do entertain an interest in community, no systematic research exists that examines the actual complexities of this phenomenon. To make first inroads into this body of literature, twenty-four community-oriented tiny housers were interviewed about their ideal community. Interview questions ranged from definitions of community to specific ideas of the nature of community characteristics. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and then coded in NVivo 12.0. Four main themes and eleven subthemes emerged from the qualitative content analysis. Select themes were then subjected to a subsequent quantification analysis in order to refine and deepen the theoretical understanding. The findings of this exploratory study suggest that a majority of tiny housers desire to be part of more cohesive and collaborative communities. While stressing the importance of community, tiny housers also expressed concerns over privacy. To explain the findings, the paper offers a set of arguments situated in the broader socio-cultural texture of our time.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus Vaccines Contain Non-Structural Protein 1 Antigen and May Elicit NS1-Specific Antibody Responses in Vaccinated Individuals
Authors: Salat Jiri , Mikulasek Kamil , Larralde Osmany , Pokorna Formanova Petra , Chrdle Ales , Haviernik Jan , Elsterova Jana , Teislerova Dana , Palus Martin , Eyer Ludek , Zdrahal Zbynek , Petrik Juraj , Ruzek Daniel
Published: February 2020

Vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is based on the use of formalin-inactivated, culture-derived whole-virus vaccines. Immune response following vaccination is primarily directed to the viral envelope (E) protein, the major viral surface antigen. In Europe, two TBE vaccines are available in adult and pediatric formulations, namely FSME-IMMUN® (Pfizer) and Encepur® (GlaxoSmithKline). Herein, we analyzed the content of these vaccines using mass spectrometry (MS). The MS analysis revealed that the Encepur vaccine contains not only proteins of the whole virus particle, but also viral non-structural protein 1 (NS1). MS analysis of the FSME-IMMUN vaccine failed due to the high content of human serum albumin used as a stabilizer in the vaccine. However, the presence of NS1 in FSME-IMMUN was confirmed by immunization of mice with six doses of this vaccine, which led to a robust anti-NS1 antibody response. NS1-specific Western blot analysis also detected anti-NS1 antibodies in sera of humans who received multiple doses of either of these two vaccines; however, most vaccinees who received ≤3 doses were negative for NS1-specific antibodies. The contribution of NS1-specific antibodies to protection against TBE was demonstrated by immunization of mice with purified NS1 antigen, which led to a significant (p < 0.01) prolongation of the mean survival time after lethal virus challenge. This indicates that stimulation of anti-NS1 immunity by the TBE vaccines may increase their protective effect.
Evaluation of the Immunoprotective Potential of Recombinant Paraflagellar Rod Proteins of Trypanosoma evansi in Mice
Authors: Maharana Biswa Ranjan , Sudhakar Naduvanahalli Rajanna , Jawalagatti Vijayakumar , Saravanan Buddhi Chandrasekaran , Blake Damer P , Tewari Anup Kumar
Published: February 2020

Trypanosomosis, caused by Trypanosoma evansi, is an economically significant disease of livestock. Systematic antigenic variation by the parasite has undermined prospects for the development of a protective vaccine that targets the immunodominant surface antigens, encouraging exploration of alternatives. The paraflagellar rod (PFR), constituent proteins of the flagellum, are prominent non-variable vaccine candidates for T. evansi owing to their strategic location. Two major PFR constituent proteins, PFR1 (1770bp) and PFR2 (1800bp), were expressed using Escherichia coli. Swiss albino mice were immunized with the purified recombinant TePFR1 (89KDa) and TePFR2 (88KDa) proteins, as well as with the mix of the combined proteins at equimolar concentrations, and subsequently challenged with virulent T. evansi. The PFR-specific humoral response was assessed by ELISA. Cytometric bead-based assay was used to measure the cytokine response and flow cytometry for quantification of the cytokines. The recombinant TePFR proteins induced specific humoral responses in mice, including IgG1 followed by IgG2a and IgG2b. A balanced cytokine response induced by rTePFR 1 and 2 protein vaccination associated with extended survival and improved control of parasitemia following lethal challenge. The observation confirms the immunoprophylactic potential of the covert antigens of T. evansi.
Strategies to Increase Flu Vaccination Coverage among Healthcare Workers: A 4 Years Study in a Large Italian Teaching Hospital
Authors: Barbara Andrea , La Milia Daniele Ignazio , Di Pumpo Marcello , Tognetto Alessia , Tamburrano Andrea , Vallone Doriana , Viora Carlo , Cavalieri Silvia , Cambieri Andrea , Moscato Umberto , Berloco Filippo , Damiani Gianfranco , Ricciardi Walter , Capelli Giovanni , Laurenti Patrizia
Published: February 2020

Flu vaccination is recommended among healthcare workers (HCWs). The low vaccination coverage registered in our hospital among HCWs called for new engaging approaches to improve flu vaccination coverage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of different strategies implemented during the last four years (2015–2019). A quasi-experimental study was conducted, involving almost 4000 HCWs each year. Starting from the 2015–2016 campaign, new evidence-based strategies were progressively implemented. At the end of each campaign, an evaluation of the vaccination coverage rate reached was performed. Moreover, during the last three campaigns, differences in coverage among job category, wards involved or not in on-site vaccination (OSV) intervention, age classes and gender were analyzed. An increasing flu vaccination coverage rate was registered, from 6% in 2015–2016 to almost 22% at the end of 2018–2019. The overall number of vaccinated HCWs increased, especially at younger ages. OSV strategy always leads to better results, and physicians always show a higher vaccination coverage than nurses and other HCWs. The implemented strategies were effective in achieving higher flu vaccination coverage among HCWs in our hospital and therefore can be considered valuable examples of good prevention practices in hospital settings.
« Schwärmerei ». Enthousiasme. Extraits de la correspondance de Kant (1790-1794)
Authors: Kant Emmanuel , Von Herbert Maria , Erhard Johann Benjamin
Published: February 2020

« Schwärmerei » Entusiasmo - extractos de la correspondencia, de Kant (1790-1794). Las cartas reunidas aquí y traducidas por vez primera en francés dan constancia de la terrible impresión que causó en una generación de alemanes el encuentro con dos acontecimientos : la filosofia kantiana y la Revolución francesa. El mismo Kant emprende un juego en el que los actores muestran, a su propia costa, que la ley moral se basta a sí misma, quedando aquél que la sigue atrapado en el engranaje de los efectos de su acto, y por ende, sometido al juicio de la historia. ¿Acaso existe en ese juego un fuera de juego, fuera de la Historia que se llama Locura, o bien la locura manifiesta en algunas de estas cartas es aún un destino del deseo, luego una fuerza histórica ? La introducción esboza las biografías de los personajes involucrados y propone una digresión sobre la Schwärmerei, concepto plural, inestable, « nómada », como el fenômeno colectivo que désigna.