bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Overview of the Current Challenges, Trends, and Protocols in the Field of Vehicular Communication
Authors: Albattah Waleed , Habib Shabana , Alsharekh Mohammed F. , Islam Muhammad , Albahli Saleh , Dewi Deshinta Arrova
Published: November 2022

Intelligent transportation systems (ITS) provides a safe and reliable means of transferring data between vehicles. The document describes the transmission systems, protocols, networks, taxonomy, and applications of Intelligent Systems. Detailed analysis of the existing transmission flow systems is required, including classification, standards, coverage, applications, as well as their advantages and disadvantages. The adaptability of transmission networks, such as ad hoc, hybrid, mobile ad hoc networks (MANET), and Vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs), has a significant advantage. Described protocols for a variety of communication types, including routing techniques, platforms, structures, and the use of information areas as well. The use of intelligent technology can determine reliable, comfortable, safe, and trustworthy vehicular communication. This paper analyzes the current vehicular communication (VC) research flow and their deployments with indicated areas where further development is necessary. This paper examines how emerging technologies in the upcoming markets will enable the development of high-featured VC technologies. The challenges of improving upon existing VC systems in the development of future systems are discussed in this paper, including medium selection, link and service quality, security, channel characteristics, and mobility. The purpose of this study is to identify the need for the development of improved VC technologies, networks, and protocols for a wide range of applications in the future.
Degradation Prediction of GaN HEMTs under Hot-Electron Stress Based on ML-TCAD Approach
Authors: Wang Ke , Jiang Haodong , Liao Yiming , Xu Yue , Yan Feng , Ji Xiaoli
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a novel approach that combines technology computer-aided design (TCAD) simulation and machine learning (ML) techniques is demonstrated to assist the analysis of the performance degradation of GaN HEMTs under hot-electron stress. TCAD is used to simulate the statistical effect of hot-electron-induced, electrically active defects on device performance, while the artificial neural network (ANN) algorithm is tested for reproducing the simulation results. The results show that the ML-TCAD approach can not only rapidly obtain the performance degradation of GaN HEMTs, but can accurately predict the progressive failure under the work conditions with a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.2, informing the possibility of quantitative failure data analysis and rapid defect extraction via the ML-TCAD approach.
A Hybrid Model to Predict Stock Closing Price Using Novel Features and a Fully Modified Hodrick–Prescott Filter
Authors: Ilyas Qazi Mudassar , Iqbal Khalid , Ijaz Sidra , Mehmood Abid , Bhatia Surbhi
Published: November 2022

Forecasting stock market prices is an exciting knowledge area for investors and traders. Successful predictions lead to high financial revenues and prevent investors from market risks. This paper proposes a novel hybrid stock prediction model that improves prediction accuracy. The proposed method consists of three main components, a noise-filtering technique, novel features, and machine learning-based prediction. We used a fully modified Hodrick–Prescott filter to smooth the historical stock price data by removing the cyclic component from the time series. We propose several new features for stock price prediction, including the return of firm, return open price, return close price, change in return open price, change in return close price, and volume per total. We investigate traditional and deep machine learning approaches for prediction. Support vector regression, auto-regressive integrated moving averages, and random forests are used for conventional machine learning. Deep learning techniques comprise long short-term memory and gated recurrent units. We performed several experiments with these machine learning algorithms. Our best model achieved a prediction accuracy of 70.88%, a root-mean-square error of 0.04, and an error rate of 0.1.
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of Nanostructure-Based Asymmetric Light Transmission Interfaces for Solar Concentrator Applications
Authors: Oliveto Vincent , Hughes Michael , Smith Duncan E. , Borca-Tasciuc Diana-Andra
Published: November 2022

Research in asymmetric light transmission interfaces has been recently gaining traction. While traditionally considered for optical circuitry applications, there is a new interest to use these interfaces in luminescent solar concentrators. Previous studies have shown that applying them to the top surface of a concentrator could mitigate surface losses. This paper presents experimental results for proof-of-concept asymmetric light transmission interfaces that may have potential applications in luminescent solar concentrators. The interfaces and the underneath substrate were created in a single step from polydimethylsiloxane using silicon molds fabricated on <100> wafers via anisotropic wet etching. The resulting structures were pyramidal in shape. Large surface areas of nanostructures repeating at 800 nm, 900 nm, and 1000 nm were tested for backward and forward transmission using a spectrometer. Results showed a 21%, 10%, and 0% average transmissivity difference between the forward and backward directions for each periodicity, respectively. The trends seen experimentally were confirmed numerically via COMSOL simulations.
A Coordination Optimization Method for Load Shedding Considering Distribution Network Reconfiguration
Authors: Wang Kai , Kang Lixia , Yang Songhao
Published: November 2022

Load shedding control is an emergency control measure to maintain the frequency stability of the power system. Most of the existing load shedding methods use the extensive form of directly cutting off the outlet of the substation, featuring low control accuracy and high control cost. A network reconfiguration technique can adjust the topology of the distribution network and offers more optimization space for load shedding control. Therefore, this paper proposes a reconfiguration–load shedding coordination optimization scheme to reduce the power loss caused by load shedding control. In the proposed method, a load shedding mathematical optimization model based on distribution network reconfiguration is first established. The tie switches and segment switches in the distribution network are used to perform the reconfiguration of the distribution network, and the load switches are adopted to realize the load shedding. To improve the solving efficiency of the model, a solving strategy that combined a minimum spanning tree algorithm with an improved genetic algorithm is trailed to address the nonlinear and nonconvex terms. The application of the proposed method and model are finally verified via the IEEE 33 bus system, and the advantages in reducing the loss cost and the number of outage users are accordingly proven.
Re-Engineering of Marketing for SMEs in Energy Market through Modeling Customers’ Strategic Behavior
Authors: Giakomidou Despina S. , Kriemadis Athanasios , Nasiopoulos Dimitrios K. , Mastrakoulis Dimitrios
Published: November 2022

In recent years, the energy market has seen an increase in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) participating in the sector and providing relevant services to customers. The energy sector SMEs need to acknowledge whether reengineering their marketing strategy by modeling customers’ website behavior could enhance their digital marketing efficiency. Web Analytics refers to the extracted data of customers’ behavior from firms’ websites, a subclass of big data (big masses of uncategorized data information). This study aims to provide insights regarding the impact that energy SMEs’ web analytics has on their digital marketing efficiency as a marketing reengineering process. The paper’s methodology begins with the retrieval of behavioral website data from SMEs in the energy sector, followed by regression and correlation analyses and the development of simulation models with Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping (FCM). Research results showed that customer behavioral data originating from SMEs’ websites can effectively impact key digital marketing performance indicators, such as increasing new visits and reducing organic costs and bounce rate (digital marketing analytics). SMEs in the energy sector can potentially increase their website visibility and customer base by re-engineering their marketing strategy and utilizing customers’ behavioral analytic data.
Elucidating the Genetic Relationships on the Original Old Sicilian Triticum Spp. Collection by SNP Genotyping
Authors: Fiore Maria Carola , Blangiforti Sebastiano , Preiti Giovanni , Spina Alfio , Bosi Sara , Marotti Ilaria , Mauceri Antonio , Puccio Guglielmo , Sunseri Francesco , Mercati Francesco
Published: November 2022

Several Triticum species spread in cultivation in Sicily and neighboring regions over the centuries, which led to the establishment of a large genetic diversity. Many ancient varieties were widely cultivated until the beginning of the last century before being replaced by modern varieties. Recently, they have been reintroduced in cultivation in Sicily. Here, the genetic diversity of 115 and 11 accessions from Sicily and Calabria, respectively, belonging to Triticum species was evaluated using a high-density SNP array. Einkorn, emmer, and spelta wheat genotypes were used as outgroups for species and subspecies; five modern varieties of durum and bread wheat were used as references. A principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) and an unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) showed four distinct groups among Triticum species and T. turgidum subspecies. The population structure analysis distinguished five gene pools, among which three appeared private to the T. aestivum, T. turgidum subsp. Turgidum, and ‘Timilia’ group. The principal component analysis (PCA) displayed a bio-morphological trait relationship of a subset (110) of ancient wheat varieties and their wide variability within the T. turgidum subsp. durum subgroups. A discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) and phylogenetic analyses applied to the four durum wheat subgroups revealed that the improved varieties harbored a different gene pool compared to the most ancient varieties. The ‘Russello’ and ‘Russello Ibleo’ groups were distinguished; both displayed higher genetic variability compared to the ‘Timilia’ group accessions. This research represents a comprehensive approach to fingerprinting the old wheat Sicilian germplasm, which is useful in avoiding commercial fraud and sustaining the cultivation of landraces and ancient varieties.
Immune Tolerance of Embryo Implantation and Pregnancy: The Role of Human Decidual Stromal Cell- and Embryonic-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Wu Hsien-Ming , Chen Liang-Hsuan , Hsu Le-Tien , Lai Chyong-Huey
Published: November 2022

Embryo–endometrial communication plays a critical role in embryo implantation and the establishment of a successful pregnancy. Successful pregnancy outcomes involve maternal immune modulation during embryo implantation. The endometrium is usually primed and immunomodulated by steroid hormones and embryo signals for subsequent embryo implantation and the maintenance of pregnancy. The roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and microRNAs for the embryo–maternal interactions have been elucidated recently. New evidence shows that endometrial EVs and trophectoderm-originated EV cargo, including microRNAs, proteins, and lipids in the physiological microenvironment, regulate maternal immunomodulation for embryo implantation and subsequent pregnancy. On the other hand, trophoblast-derived EVs also control the cross-communication between the trophoblasts and immune cells. The exploration of EV functions and mechanisms in the processes of embryo implantation and pregnancy will shed light on a practical tool for the diagnostic or therapeutic approaches to reproductive medicine and infertility.
METCAM/MUC18 Plays a Tumor Suppressor Role in the Development of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Type I
Authors: Liu Yen-Chun , Chen Yu-Jen , Wu Guang-Jer
Published: November 2022

From previous studies of negatively correlating the expression of human METCAM/MUC18 with the pathology of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), we have suggested that human METCAM/MUC18 (huMETCAM/MUC18) might play a tumor suppressor role in the development of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. To scrutinize this hypothesis, we investigated the effects of huMETCAM/MUC18′s over-expression on in vitro cellular behavior and on the in vivo tumorigenesis of one NPC cell line (NPC-TW01). HuMETCAM/MUC18 cDNA was first transfected into the NPC-TW01 cell line, which was established from NPC type I, and many G418-resistant clones were obtained. Then, two NPC-TW01 clones, which expressed high and medium levels of huMETCAM/MUC18, respectively, and one empty vector (control) clone were used to test the effects of huMETCAM/MUC18′s over-expression on in vitro behaviors and on in vivo tumorigenesis (via subcutaneous injection) in athymic nude mice (Balb/cAnN.Cg-Foxnlnu/Cr1Nar1). The time course of tumor proliferation and the final tumor weights were determined. Tumor sections were used for the histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) studies. Tumor lysates were used for determining the expression levels of huMETCAM/MUC18 and various downstream key effectors. HuMETCAM/MUC18′s over-expression reduced in vitro motility and invasiveness and altered growth behaviors in 3D basement membrane culture assays, and it decreased the in vivo tumorigenicity of the NPC-TW01 cells. The tumor cells from a high-expressing clone were clustered and confined in small areas, whereas those from a vector control clone were more spread out, suggesting that the tumor cells from the high-expressing clone appeared to stay dormant in micro-clusters. Expression levels of the proliferation index, an index of the metabolic switch to aerobic glycolysis, angiogenesis indexes, and survival pathway indexes were reduced, whereas the pro-apoptosis index increased in the corresponding tumors. The over-expression of huMETCAM/MUC18 in the NPC-TW01 cells decreased the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and the in vitro and in vitro tumorigenesis, suggesting that it plays a tumor suppressor role in the development of type I NPC, perhaps by increasing apoptosis and decreasing angiogenesis, proliferation, and the metabolic switch to aerobic glycolysis.
External Hemin as an Inhibitor of Mitochondrial Large-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channel Activity
Authors: Walewska Agnieszka , Szewczyk Adam , Koprowski Piotr
Published: November 2022

The mitochondrial large-conductance calcium-activated potassium channel (mitoBKCa) is located in the inner mitochondrial membrane and seems to play a crucial role in cytoprotection. The mitoBKCa channel is regulated by many modulators, including activators, such as calcium ions and inhibitors, such as heme and its oxidized form hemin. Heme/hemin binds to the heme-binding motif (CXXCH) located between two RCK domains present in the mitochondrial matrix. In the present study, we used the patch-clamp technique in the outside-out configuration to record the activity of mitoBKCa channels. This allowed for the application of channel modulators to the intermembrane-space side of the mitoBKCa. We found that hemin applied in this configuration inhibits the activity of mitoBKCa. In addition, we proved that the observed hemin effect is specific and it is not due to its interaction with the inner mitochondrial membrane. Our data suggest the existence of a new potential heme/hemin binding site in the structure of the mitoBKCa channel located on the mitochondrial intermembrane space side, which could constitute a new way for the regulation of mitoBKCa channel activity.
Neuromedin S Regulates Steroidogenesis through Maintaining Mitochondrial Morphology and Function via NMUR2 in Goat Ovarian Granulosa Cells
Authors: Sun Xuan , Zeng Cheng , Wang Feng , Zhang Zhen , Yang Fan , Liu Zhi-Peng , Li Kang , Zhang Guo-Min
Published: November 2022

Neuromedin S (NMS) plays various roles in reproductive regulation, while the mechanism by which NMS regulates ovarian steroidogenesis remains unclear. In the current study, we confirmed the enhancement role of NMS in steroidogenesis in goat ovarian granulosa cells (GCs). To further explore the specific mechanism, we conducted a knockdown of NMUR2 in GCs followed by treatment with NMS and determined the effects of NMS treatment on mitochondrial morphology and function. The results found that NMS treatment increased the production of estrogen and up-regulated the expression of STAR, CYP11A1, 3BHSD, and CYP19A1, while the effects of NMS treatment were blocked by the knockdown of NMUR2 in goat GCs. Moreover, NMS treatment enhanced the fusion of mitochondria and up-regulated the expression of OPA1, MFN1, and MFN2, and increased mitochondrial membrane potential, the activity of respiratory chain enzymes and ATP production by maintaining a low expression level of mitochondrial unfolded protein response markers. The effects of NMS treatment on mitochondria were reversed by NMUR2 knockdown and NMS cotreatment. The possible mechanism of the results above was revealed by NMS treatment activating the Hippo pathway effector YAP1 and then managing the expression of phosphorylation PPARGC1A (Ser571). Together, these data showed that NMS promoted the fusion of mitochondria and protected mitochondrial function from mitochondrial unfolded protein response possibly via the NMUR2/YAP1/PPARGC1A pathway, thereby affecting the steroidogenesis of goat GCs. By elaborating the potential mechanism of NMS in regulating estrogen production in goat GCs, our results can serve as the mechanism reference for follicular growth and development.
Impact of Oral Mesenchymal Stem Cells Applications as a Promising Therapeutic Target in the Therapy of Periodontal Disease
Authors: Amato Mariacristina , Santonocito Simona , Viglianisi Gaia , Tatullo Marco , Isola Gaetano
Published: November 2022

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting about 20–50% of people, worldwide, and manifesting clinically through the detection of gingival inflammation, clinical attachment loss, radiographically assessed resorption of alveolar bone, gingival bleeding upon probing, teeth mobility and their potential loss at advanced stages. It is characterized by a multifactorial etiology, including an imbalance of the oral microbiota, mechanical stress and systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus. The current standard treatments for periodontitis include eliminating the microbial pathogens and applying biomaterials to treat the bone defects. However, periodontal tissue regeneration via a process consistent with the natural tissue formation process has not yet been achieved. Developmental biology studies state that periodontal tissue is composed of neural crest-derived ectomesenchyme. The aim of this review is to discuss the clinical utility of stem cells in periodontal regeneration by reviewing the relevant literature that assesses the periodontal-regenerative potential of stem cells.
BTN3A: A Promising Immune Checkpoint for Cancer Prognosis and Treatment
Authors: Kone Abdou-samad , Ait Ssi Saadia , Sahraoui Souha , Badou Abdallah
Published: November 2022

Butyrophilin-3A (BTN3A) subfamily members are a group of immunoglobulins present on the surface of different cell types, including innate and cancer cells. Due to their high similarity with the B7 family members, different studies have been conducted and revealed the involvement of BTN3A molecules in modulating T cell activity within the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, a great part of this research focused on γδ T cells and how BTN3A contributes to their functions. In this review, we will depict the roles and various aspects of BTN3A molecules in distinct tumor microenvironments and review how BTN3A receptors modulate diverse immune effector functions including those of CD4+ (Th1), cytotoxic CD8+ T cells, and NK cells. We will also highlight the potential of BTN3A molecules as therapeutic targets for effective immunotherapy and successful cancer control, which could represent a bright future for patient treatment.
Mucosal Adjuvants Delivered by a Mucoadhesive Patch for Sublingual Administration of Subunit Vaccines
Authors: Monge Claire , Ayad Camille , Paris Anne-Lise , Rovera Renaud , Colomb Evelyne , Verrier Bernard
Published: November 2022

Among mucosal administration routes for vaccines, the sublingual route has been proven capable of inducing a potent systemic and mucosal immune response. However, the absence of a simple and compliant delivery system and the lack of robust mucosal adjuvants impede the development of sublingual vaccines. Here, we describe a mucoadhesive patch made of a layer-by-layer assembly of polysaccharides, chitosan, and hyaluronic acid. The mucoadhesive patch was covered by adjuvanted nanoparticles carrying viral proteins. We showed that the nanoparticles effectively cross the outer layers of the sublingual mucosa to reach the epithelium. Furthermore, the encapsulated adjuvants, 3M-052 and mifamurtide, targeting toll-like receptor (TLR) 7/8 and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-2 (NOD2), respectively, remain fully active after encapsulation into nanoparticles and exhibit a cytokine/chemokine signature similar to the mucosal gold-standard adjuvant, the cholera toxin. However, the particulate adjuvants induced more moderate levels of proinflammatory interleukin (IL)-6 and keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC), suggesting a controlled activation of the innate immune response.
Impact of Alcohol and Smoking on Outcomes of HPV-Related Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Lai Yu-Hsuan , Su Chien-Chou , Wu Shang-Yin , Hsueh Wei-Ting , Wu Yuan-Hua , Chen Helen H. W. , Hsiao Jenn-Ren , Liu Ching-Hsun , Tsai Yi-Shan
Published: November 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of adverse lifestyle factors on outcomes in patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Methods: From 2010 to 2019, 150 consecutive non-metastatic OPSCC patients receiving curative treatment in our institution were retrospectively enrolled. HPV positivity was defined as p16 expression ≥75%. The effects of adverse lifestyle factors on overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) on OPSCC patients were determined. Results: The median follow-up duration was 3.6 years. Of the 150 OPSCCs, 51 (34%) patients were HPV-positive and 99 (66%) were HPV-negative. The adverse lifestyle exposure rates were 74.7% (n = 112) alcohol use, 57.3% (n = 86) betel grid chewing, and 78% (n = 117) cigarette smoking. Alcohol use strongly interacted with HPV positivity (HR, 6.00; 95% CI, 1.03–35.01), leading to an average 26.1% increased risk of disease relapse in patients with HPV-positive OPSCC. Heavy smoking age ≥30 pack-years was associated with increased risk of death (HR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.05–4.00) and disease relapse (HR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.06–3.75) in OPSCC patients. In stratified analyses, the 3-year absolute risk of disease relapse in HPV-positive OPSCC patients reached up to 50% when alcohol use and heavy smoking for ≥30 pack-years were combined. Conclusions: Alcohol acted as a significant treatment-effect modifier for DFS in HPV-positive OPSCC patients, diluting the favorable prognostic effect of HPV positivity. Heavy smoking age ≥30 pack-years was an independent adverse prognostic factor of OS and DFS in OPSCC patients. De-intensification treatment for HPV-related OPSCC may be avoided when these adverse lifestyle factors are present.
Cirrhosis, a Global and Challenging Disease
Authors: Fortea José Ignacio , Crespo Javier , Puente Ángela
Published: November 2022

Cirrhosis is the result of sustained liver damage leading to the diffusion of hepatic fibrosis, wherein the normal hepatic architecture is replaced by abnormally organized nodules separated by fibrous septa that connect the different vascular structures of the hepatic lobule [...]
The Ratio of IL-6 to IL-4 in Synovial Fluid of Knee or Hip Performances a Noteworthy Diagnostic Value in Prosthetic Joint Infection
Authors: Su Xudong , Chen Yuelong , Zhan Qian , Zhu Bo , Chen Li , Zhao Chen , Yang Jianye , Wei Li , Xu Zhenghao , Wei Keyu , Huang Wei , Qin Leilei , Hu Ning
Published: November 2022

The diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is still a challenge, the ratio of interleukin-6 (IL-6) to IL-4 in the joint fluid of knee or hip was used to analyze whether the diagnostic accuracy of PJI can be improved. Between January 2017 and May 2022, 180 patients who developed pain after revision total hip or knee arthroplasty were enrolled retrospectively. 92 patients of PJI and 88 of aseptic failure were included. PJI was as defined by the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS). The content of IL-6 and IL-4 in synovial fluid of knee or hip were measured, and the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and IL-6/IL-4 curve were analyzed to obtain a better diagnostic effect. The area under the curve of IL-6/IL-4 in synovial fluid of knee or hip was 0.9623, which was more accurate than ESR 0.5994 and C-reactive protein 0.6720. The optimal threshold of IL-6/IL-4 ratio was 382.10. Its sensitivity and specificity were 81.32% and 98.86%, respectively. The positive predictive value for the diagnosis of PJI was 98.91%. This study showed that the level of IL-6/IL-4 in synovial fluid of knee or hip could further improve the diagnostic accuracy for PJI.
The Expression of IL-1β Correlates with the Expression of Galectin-3 in the Tissue at the Maternal–Fetal Interface during the Term and Preterm Labor
Authors: Jovic Nikola , Milovanovic Marija , Jovic Jovana Joksimovic , Ilic Marija Bicanin , Rakic Dejana , Milenkovic Vladimir , Stojanovic Bojana , Milovanovic Jelena , Arsenijevic Aleksandar , Arsenijevic Nebojsa , Varjacic Mirjana
Published: November 2022

The inflammatory processes that occur at the maternal–fetal interface are considered one of the factors that are responsible for preterm birth. The pro-inflammatory roles of the Gal-3-induced activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and the consecutive production of IL-1β have been described in several acute and chronic inflammatory diseases, but the role of this inflammatory axis in parturition has not been studied. The aim of this study was to analyze the protein expression of Gal-3, NLRP3, and IL-1β in the decidua, villi, and fetal membranes, and to analyze their mutual correlation and correlation with the clinical parameters of inflammation in preterm birth (PTB) and term birth (TB). The study included 40 women that underwent a preterm birth (gestational age of 25.0–36.6) and histological chorioamnionitis (PTB) and control subjects, 22 women that underwent a term birth (gestational age of 37.0–41.6) without histological chorioamnionitis (TB). An analysis of the tissue sections that were stained with anti- Gal-3, -NLRP3, and -IL-1β antibodies was assessed by three independent investigators. The expression levels of Gal-3 and IL-1β were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the decidua, villi, and fetal membranes in the PTB group when they compared to those of the TB group, while there was no difference in the expression of NLRP3. A further analysis revealed that there was no correlation between the protein expression of NLRP3 and the expression of Gal-3 and IL-1β, but there was a correlation between the expression of Gal-3 and IL-1β in decidua (R = 0.401; p = 0.008), villi (R = 0.301; p = 0.042) and the fetal membranes (R = 0.428; p = 0.002) in both of the groups, PTB and TB. In addition, the expression of Gal-3 and IL-1β in decidua and the fetal membranes was in correlation with the parameters of inflammation in the maternal and fetal blood (C-reactive protein, leukocyte number, and fibrinogen). The strong correlation between the expression of Gal-3 and IL-1β in the placental and fetal tissues during labor indicates that Gal-3 may participate in the regulation of the inflammatory processes in the placenta, leading to increased production of IL-1β, a cytokine that plays the main role in both term and preterm birth.
Recycled Carbon Nanofiber-Polypropylene Nanocomposite: A Step towards Sustainable Structural Material Development
Authors: Pathak Abhishek Kumar , Yokozeki Tomohiro
Published: November 2022

Plastic products play a significant role in fulfilling daily necessities, but the non-decomposable nature of plastic leads to inescapable environmental damage. Recycling plastic material is the most appropriate solution to avoid pollution and short product lifespan. The present study shows the recycling effect on carbon nanofiber (CNF) reinforced polypropylene (PP) nanocomposite to attain the purpose of reuse and sustainability. 30 wt% CNF melt-blended with polymer and PP-nanocomposites were fabricated using the injection molding technique. PP-CNF nanocomposites were recycled, and mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties were investigated. Three-point bending and tensile testing showed a low decrement of ~1% and ~5% in bending and tensile strength after recycling 30 wt% PP-CNF nanocomposites. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images show that the alignment of CNF was disturbed after recycling due to the decrement in the aspect ratio of CNF. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed that the crystallinity of PP increases with recycling. The lowering of interfacial interaction between CNF and PP after recycling was studied by a stress-controlled rheometer. The decrement in mechanical properties of PP-CNF nanocomposite is not significant due to CNF reinforcement; hence, it can be reused for the same or other structural applications.
Mapping Uncounted Anthropogenic Fill Flows: Environmental Impact and Mitigation
Authors: Hara Yuji , Hirai Chizuko , Sampei Yuki
Published: November 2022

Fill material flows created by land development earthworks are anthropogenic agents that generate massive energy use from their heavy loads. However, formal quantification of these flows has been neglected. We use Osaka Prefecture in Japan as a case study to quantify fill flows and associated CO2 emissions. We collected data on fill flows, including fill generation and acceptance. We mapped these publicly uncounted fill flows and calculated the CO2 emissions from the associated energy use. We also simulated a scenario in which optimized shortest-distance matching is achieved between fill generators and acceptors. We estimated the current fill flows based on distance and weight and broke down the total by type of site and activity. We compared our estimates of current fill flows with estimates from our matching simulation and found the simulation could achieve an 8448 km reduction in flow length and a 5724 t-CO2 reduction in emissions associated with transportation. We discussed the implications of flexible matching, especially in different construction sectors, and the importance of continuous, spatially geo-referenced monitoring of these fill flows toward further environmental impact mitigation. The approach presented here could apply to assessing environmental loads arising from landform changes in other cities and lead to development of a new regional- and global-scale fill material science in the Anthropocene.
Experimental Test of Reinforced Timber of FRCM-PBO with Pull-Off Adhesion Method
Authors: Sokołowski Piotr , Bąk-Patyna Paulina , Bysiec Dominika , Maleska Tomasz
Published: November 2022

The article describes the results of pull-off adhesion strength of the FRCM-PBO (Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Matrix-p-Phenylene benzobis oxazole) composite adhered to the epoxy resin layer which is the connector with the timber beam. In addition, this paper shows the results of the tests of resistance to pull-off the epoxy resin layer from the pine beam. The tests were carried out based on the Polish Standard PN-EN 1542. The Pearson linear correlation analysis was also carried out in order to determine the correlation between the obtained results and the destructive forces. The factors that occurred during the test that may affect its results, such as the method of applying the bursting force, surface preparation of the tested elements and the types of substrate destruction, were also characterized. The experimental data show that in all the tested samples, non-initial adhesive destruction between the adhesive layer and the disc was observed.
Thermodynamic Study of Leaching Conditions of Galena with Citrate Ions and Hydrogen Peroxide as Oxidizing Agent
Authors: Solís-Marcial O. J. , Nájera-Bastida A. , Talavera-López Alfonso , Serrano Rosales Benito , Hernandez Jose A. , Zarate-Gutiérrez R.
Published: November 2022

Galena is the most important mineral for lead production, as it is the main source of lead in the world. Currently, the concentrates of this mineral are mainly treated using pyrometallurgical methods, creating several environmental problems, such as the generation of toxic and greenhouse gases. In addition, these processes involve high energy consumption, which limits their applicability. Hydrometallurgical routes are proposed as alternative processes for obtaining some metals such as silver, copper, gold, etc. The drawback of these processes is that the minerals tend to be passive in aqueous media. To mitigate this issue, researchers have used extreme conditions of pressure and temperature (6 atm. and 155 °C) or the use of very corrosive conditions. In this sense, the use of complexing agents that dissolve the metals of interest has been proposed. Citrate ion is one of the most promising complexing agents for galena leaching, obtaining high percentages of dissolution in relatively short times. Unfortunately, there has not been enough investigation about the concentration optimization of the complexing in the pH range from 5 to 9. In this sense, thermodynamic diagrams, such as the Pourbaix diagrams, are very useful for this purpose. Therefore, in this work, the effects of pH and temperature on the leaching of galena in citrate ion solutions are studied thermodynamically and experimentally. The experimental work was carried out with pure galena samples with a particle size of +149 − 74 µm (−100 + 200 mesh). The results show that higher recoveries were obtained working at a pH of 8 and at temperatures of 30 and 40 °C. The thermodynamic and experimental data demonstrated that the existence of an optimal concentration of citrate ion, due the extraction of lead from galena, has a greater reaction rate at a relatively low initial concentration of 0.3 M. This is due the formation of the complex lead citrate 1 (Pb(cit)−).
A Critical Review on Modification Methods of Cement Composites with Nanocellulose and Reaction Conditions during Nanocellulose Production
Authors: Szafraniec Małgorzata , Grabias-Blicharz Ewelina , Barnat-Hunek Danuta , Landis Eric N.
Published: November 2022

Nanocellulose (NC) is a natural polymer that has driven significant progress in recent years in the study of the mechanical properties of composites, including cement composites. Impressive mechanical properties, ability to compact the cement matrix, low density, biodegradability, and hydrophilicity of the surface of nanocellulose particles (which improves cement hydration) are some of the many benefits of using NCs in composite materials. The authors briefly presented a description of the types of NCs (including the latest, little-known shapes), showing the latest developments in their manufacture and modification. Moreover, NC challenges and opportunities are discussed to reveal its hidden potential, as well as the use of spherical and square/rectangular nanocellulose to modify cement composites. Intending to emphasize the beneficial use of NC in cementitious composites, this article discusses NC as an eco-friendly, low-cost, and efficient material, particularly for recycling readily available cellulosic waste. In view of the constantly growing interest in using renewable and waste materials in a wide range of applications, the authors hope to provide progress in using nanocellulose (NC) as a modifier for cement composites. Furthermore, this review highlights a gap in research regarding the preparation of new types of NCs, their application, and their impact on the properties of cementitious composites. Finally, the authors summarize and critically evaluate the type, dosage, and application method of NC, as well as the effects of these variables on the final properties of NC-derived cement composites. Nevertheless, this review article stresses up-to-date challenges for NC-based materials as well as future remarks in light of dwindling natural resources (including building materials), and the principles of a circular economy.
Analysis of Stress and Displacement Fields in Prosthetic Crowns Made of Zirconium Dioxide Using Numerical Approach of Homogenization Hypothesis
Authors: Dzięgielewski Michał , Regulska Kinga , Korycki Ryszard , Klimek Leszek
Published: November 2022

The main goal of this paper is to analyze the stress and displacement fields in prosthetic crowns made of zirconium dioxide using the numerical approach of homogenization hypothesis. The simple engineering model is developed and applied in case of vertical forces. The model is a three-dimensional simulation of molars subjected to crushing, mastication, and clenching. Two basic approaches are considered: the single prosthetic crown on a single molar, and the prosthetic bridge on two molars. The distributions of material parameters are determined for the rigid support and the elastic gum structure of the homogenized properties. The crown on a single molar is analyzed in respect of caries, which are represented by weak material parameters. Irrespective of the problem, the maximal stresses are always insignificant compared to the compressive strength for enamel, dentin, periodontium, and zirconium dioxide. In case of caries, the maximal stresses are located at the contact surface caries/crown, whereas the displacement was higher than the same parameter without caries. The stresses inside the prosthetic bridge on two molars were comparable for elastic and rigid support, and located at the same areas. The molar displacement for elastic gum was higher than for the rigid base, and additionally supplemented by the displacement of the supporting structure.
Integrated Infrared Radiation Characteristics of Aircraft Skin and the Exhaust Plume
Authors: Zhang Juqi , Qi Hong , Jiang Donghang , Gao Baohai , He Mingjian , Ren Yatao , Li Kefu
Published: November 2022

Infrared radiation (IR) characteristics are important parameters for detecting, identifying, and striking military targets in the context of systematic countermeasures. Accurate calculation of IR characteristics for aircraft is significant for the simulation of war situations and the designation of combat strategy. In this work, integrated IR characteristics of aircraft skin and exhaust plume and their interaction are investigated by considering the reflection based on a bi-directional reflectance distribution function and various influence factors such as solar irradiation, ground reflection, aerodynamic heating, and projection radiation from the background. Combined with infrared emission and reflection characteristics of the skin, omnidirectional IR intensity distributions of 3−5 μm and 8−14 μm at different Mach numbers are obtained. The exhaust plume IR characteristic for different waves and wavebands are also investigated by considering the presence or absence of base and the difference in nozzle inlet temperature. On this basis, integrated IR characteristics between the skin and exhaust plume are investigated. Results show that aircraft IR characteristics of 3−5 μm are concentrated in the exhaust plume and high-temperature skin near the exhaust plume, while the signals of 8−14 μm are concentrated in the skin. The research results are expected to supply guidance for better detection and identification of typical flight targets.
A Method of Managing Waste Oak Flour as a Biocomponent for Obtaining Composites Based on Modified Soybean Oil
Authors: Sienkiewicz Anna , Czub Piotr
Published: November 2022

The aim of the present research was the development of a management method for wood-processing waste that was obtained during the production of parquet flooring. Currently mostly useless, such waste mainly ends up in landfills. The oak waste flour was used as a reinforcement material for epoxy biocomposites based on the polyaddition product of epoxidized soybean oil and bisphenol-A (ESBO_BPA). The biofiller was subjected to mercerization, acetylation, and diisocyanate modification to increase the typically poor compatibility between the highly hydrophilic wood fibers and the hydrophobic polymer matrix. Among the analyzed epoxy biocomposites, which contained about 60% raw materials of natural origin, it was found that the best mechanical properties were recorded for cured samples of the ESBO_BPA composition filled with 5 wt % of oak flour mercerized using a 5% solution of NaOH. It was also proven that a higher concentration of alkali deteriorated the mechanical-strengthening properties of the wood filler. The acetylation of the biofiller independently in the best elimination of hydroxyl groups from its structure also removed irregular strips and smoothed its surface. This resulted in a poorer wettability of the oak flour surface by the polymer and consequently an easier pullout of the filler from the polymer matrix and worse mechanical properties of the wood/epoxy composite. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present research was the first to examine the possibility of the application of parquet flooring post-production wood flour in biomaterials based on a polyaddition product of epoxidized soybean oil and bisphenol-A.
Light-Driven Flying Balloons Based on Hybrids of Carbon Nanotubes and Cellulose Nanofibers
Authors: Ikuno Takashi , Takahashi Kazuki , Kadogawa Akari
Published: November 2022

We have fabricated nanocarbon-based palm-sized cubic paper balloons that can be levitated by light irradiation. These paper balloons are composed of carbon nanotube (CNT) freestanding films and cellulose nanofiber (CNF) freestanding films. The number of CNT freestanding films (NCNT) and the number of CNF freestanding films (6-NCNT) among the six walls of the cube were varied. We investigated the effect of NCNT on the levitation behaviors under light irradiation. We found that the balloons were levitated when NCNT was greater than or equal to two. The levitation height was found to be increased by increasing NCNT.
The Encapsulation of Bioactive Plant Extracts into the Cellulose Microfiber Isolated from G. optiva Species for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Panthi Khim Prasad , Gyawali Aashish , Pandeya Shiva , Sharma Bhusal Motee Lal , Neupane Bhanu Bhakta , Tiwari Arjun Prasad , Joshi Mahesh Kumar
Published: November 2022

Agricultural waste-based cellulose fibers have gained significant interest for a myriad of applications. Grewia optiva (G. optiva), a plant species, has been widely used for feeding animals, and the small branches’ bark is used for making rope. Herein, we have extracted cellulose fibers from the bark of G. optiva species via chemical treatments (including an alkaline treatment and bleaching). The gravimetric analysis revealed that the bark of G. Optiva contains cellulose (63.13%), hemicellulose (13.52%), lignin (15.13%), and wax (2.8%). Cellulose microfibre (CMF) has been synthesized from raw fibre via chemical treatment methods. The obtained cellulose fibers were crosslinked and employed as the matrix to encapsulate the bioactive plant extracts derived from the root of Catharanthus roseus (C. roseus). The microscopic images, XRD, FTIR, and antibacterial/antioxidant activity confirmed the encapsulation of natural extracts in the cellulose microfiber. The microscopic images revealed that the encapsulation of the natural extracts slightly increased the fiber’s diameter. The XRD pattern showed that the extracted cellulose microfiber had an average crystalline size of 2.53 nm with a crystalline index of 30.4% compared to the crystalline size of 2.49 nm with a crystalline index of 27.99% for the plant extract incorporated membrane. The water uptake efficiency of the synthesized membrane increased up to 250%. The antimicrobial activity of the composite (the CMF-E membrane) was studied via the zone inhibition against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, and the result indicated high antibacterial activity. This work highlighted G. optiva-derived cellulose microfiber as an optimum substrate for antimicrobial scaffolds. In addition, this paper first reports the antimicrobial/antioxidant behavior of the composite membrane of the C. roseus extract blended in the G. optiva microfiber. This work revealed the potential applications of CMF-E membranes for wound healing scaffolds.
Failure Mechanisms of Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3−δ Membranes after Pilot Module Operation
Authors: Herzog Simone , Liu Chao , Nauels Nicolas , Kaletsch Anke , Broeckmann Christoph
Published: November 2022

The step from the testing of oxygen transport membranes on a lab scale to long-term operation on a large scale is a challenge. In a previous study, membrane failure was observed at defined positions of one end of the cooled tubular Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3−δ membranes after an emergency shutdown. To understand the failure mechanisms, strength degradation and transient stress distribution were investigated by brittle-ring tests and finite element simulations, respectively. A 15% decrease in the characteristic strength of 162 MPa was proven after aging at 850 °C and was attributed to grain coarsening. The reduction in characteristic strength after thermal shock ranged from 5 to 90% depending on the cooling rates, and from 5 to 40% after the first and 20th soft thermal cycling. Simulations indicated the chemical strains induced by a 10-bar feed air and 50 mbar permeate pressure, which caused tensile stresses of up to 70 MPa at the outer surface. These stresses relaxed to 43 MPa by creep within a 1000 h operation. A remaining local stress maximum seemed to be responsible for the fracture. It evolved near the experimentally observed fracture position during a 1000 h permeation and exceeded the temperature and time-dependent strength. The maximum stress was formed by a chemical strain at temperatures above 500 °C but effective creep relaxation needed temperatures above 750 °C.
Fabrication and Characterization of Wire Arc Additively Manufactured AlSi5 Structures
Authors: Kotlarski Georgi , Ormanova Maria , Ossenbrink Ralf , Nikitin Alexander , Doynov Nikolay , Valkov Stefan , Michailov Vesselin
Published: November 2022

For the purpose of this research, single track details were manufactured in the shape of thin walls with a length of 100 mm and a height of 80 mm. Two welding speeds were chosen for this experiment–13.3 mm/s and 20.0 mm/s corresponding to the following heat inputs: 120 J/mm and 80 J/mm. The gas metal arc welding (GMAW) method was used for the build-up of the specimens in the cold arc pulse mode. The structure of the specimens was studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis carried out with CuKα radiation with a wavelength of 1.5406 Ǻ, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Furthermore, the Vickers hardness of the samples was determined using a ZwickRoell DuraScan 10/20 G5 unit at a force of 1 N. A preferred crystallographic orientation towards the (200) plane was observed in all cases, however a vastly textured structure was observed with inclusions of peaks in the (111), (220), and (311) crystallographic planes. The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of samples taken from different stages of build-up was calculated indicating an increase of the dislocation density at the more advanced stages of specimen growth. Despite that an increase of the hardness was observed towards the top of both specimens. This is attributed to the change in the structure of the αAl + Si formations from an irregular one at the bottom of the specimens, towards a fibrous one at the top. The results are discussed in regard to the optimization of the build-up process during wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM).