bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immune Phenotypes of Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Nilsson Johan S. , Sobti Aastha , Swoboda Sabine , Erjefält Jonas S. , Forslund Ola , Lindstedt Malin , Greiff Lennart
Published: November 2020

Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) features intralesional immune cells, but data are lacking on presence/distribution of T-cells and dendritic cells (DCs). Based on intralesional distribution of lymphocytes, a series of NPC biopsies (n = 48) were classified into “inflamed”, “excluded”, and “deserted” phenotypes. In addition, CD8+ T-cells and CD207+ DCs were quantified. The data were analyzed in relation to Epstein–Barr virus-encoded small RNA (EBER), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA, and survival. Separately, data on gene expression from a public database were analyzed. 61.7% of NPC lesions were “inflamed”, 29.8% were “excluded”, and 8.5% were “deserted”. While CD8+ cells were present in cancer cell areas and in surrounding stroma, CD207+ cells were observed largely in cancer cell areas. High CD8+ T-cell presence was associated with EBV+ disease, but no such pattern was observed for CD207+ DCs. There was a difference in disease-free survival in favor of “inflamed” over “excluded” NPC. Gene expression analysis revealed differences between NPC and control tissue (e.g., with regard to interferon activity) as well as between subgroups of NPC based on CD8 expression (high vs. low). In conclusion, NPC lesions are heterogeneous with regard to distribution of CD8+ T-cells and CD207+ DCs. NPC can be classified into immune phenotypes that carry prognostic information. CD207+ DCs may represent a target for immunotherapy with potential to facilitate the antigen cross-presentation necessary to execute cytotoxic T-lymphocyte responses.
Genetic Variants of the NKG2C/HLA-E Receptor–Ligand Axis Are Determinants of Progression-Free Survival and Therapy Outcome in Aggressive B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Wagner Bettina , Dührsen Ulrich , Hüttmann Andreas , Nückel Holger , Michita Rafael Tomoya , Rohn Hana , Schramm Sabine , Horn Peter A. , Rebmann Vera
Published: November 2020

Aggressive B-cell lymphomas account for the majority of non-Hodgkin lymphomas (B-NHL). NK cells govern the responses to anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies and have emerged as attractive targets for immunotherapy in subtypes of B-NHL. NKG2C and its cognate ligand HLA-E represent key molecules for fine-tuning of NK cell-mediated immune responses. Here, we investigated the impact of genetic variants of NKG2C and HLA-E on clinical outcomes of 441 B-NHL patients. Homozygous deletion of NKG2C (NKG2C−/−) was three-fold increased in patients compared to 192 healthy controls. Among studied patients, NKG2C−/− was more abundant in International Prognostic Index (IPI) high-risk patients compared to patients with a lower IPI (p = 0.013). Strikingly, NKG2C−/− was associated with a significantly reduced 2-year PFS (progression-free survival) (p = 0.0062) and represented an independent risk factor for 2-year PFS in multivariate analysis (p = 0.005). For HLA-E, the cognate ligand of NKG2C, the HLA-E*01:01 allele frequency was increased in B-NHL patients compared to controls (p = 0.033) and was associated with complete remission in univariate (p = 0.034) and multivariate (p = 0.018) analysis. Our data suggest that NKG2C and HLA-E genotyping is a promising tool for both defining risk groups of aggressive B-NHL and predicting response to immune therapeutic approaches.
Downstream Neighbor of SON (DONSON) Expression Is Enhanced in Phenotypically Aggressive Prostate Cancers
Authors: Klümper Niklas , von Danwitz Marthe , Stein Johannes , Schmidt Doris , Schmidt Anja , Kristiansen Glen , Muders Michael , Hölzel Michael , Ritter Manuel , Alajati Abdullah , Ellinger Jörg
Published: November 2020

Downstream neighbor of Son (DONSON) plays a crucial role in cell cycle progression and in maintaining genomic stability, but its role in prostate cancer (PCa) development and progression is still underinvestigated. Methods: DONSON mRNA expression was analyzed with regard to clinical-pathological parameters and progression using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and two publicly available Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets of PCa. Afterwards, DONSON protein expression was assessed via immunohistochemistry on a comprehensive tissue microarray (TMA). Subsequently, the influence of a DONSON-knockdown induced by the transfection of antisense-oligonucleotides on proliferative capacity and metastatic potential was investigated. DONSON was associated with an aggressive phenotype in the PCa TCGA cohort, two GEO PCa cohorts, and our PCa TMA cohort as DONSON expression was particularly strong in locally advanced, metastasized, and dedifferentiated carcinomas. Thus, DONSON expression was notably upregulated in distant and androgen-deprivation resistant metastases. In vitro, specific DONSON-knockdown significantly reduced the migration capacity in the PCa cell lines PC-3 and LNCaP, which further suggests a tumor-promoting role of DONSON in PCa. In conclusion, the results of our comprehensive expression analyses, as well as the functional data obtained after DONSON-depletion, lead us to the conclusion that DONSON is a promising prognostic biomarker with oncogenic properties in PCa.
Statistical Considerations for Trials in Adjuvant Treatment of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Saad Everardo Delforge , Buyse Marc
Published: November 2020

The design of the best possible clinical trials of adjuvant interventions in colorectal cancer will entail the use of both time-tested and novel methods that allow efficient, reliable and patient-relevant therapeutic development. The ultimate goal of this endeavor is to safely and expeditiously bring to clinical practice novel interventions that impact patient lives. In this paper, we discuss statistical aspects and provide suggestions to optimize trial design, data collection, study implementation, and the use of predictive biomarkers and endpoints in phase 3 trials of systemic adjuvant therapy. We also discuss the issues of collaboration and patient centricity, expecting that several novel agents with activity in the (neo)adjuvant therapy of colon and rectal cancers will become available in the near future.
Convergence of Plasma Metabolomics and Proteomics Analysis to Discover Signatures of High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Ahn Hee-Sung , Yeom Jeonghun , Yu Jiyoung , Kwon Young-Il , Kim Jae-Hoon , Kim Kyunggon
Published: November 2020

The 5-year survival rate in the early and late stages of ovarian cancer differs by 63%. In addition, a liquid biopsy is necessary because there are no symptoms in the early stage and tissue collection is difficult without using invasive methods. Therefore, there is a need for biomarkers to achieve this goal. In this study, we found blood-based metabolite or protein biomarker candidates for the diagnosis of ovarian cancer in the 20 clinical samples (10 ovarian cancer patients and 10 healthy control subjects). Plasma metabolites and proteins were measured and quantified using mass spectrometry in ovarian cancer patients and control groups. We identified the differential abundant biomolecules (34 metabolites and 197 proteins) and statistically integrated molecules of different dimensions to better understand ovarian cancer signal transduction and to identify novel biological mechanisms. In addition, the biomarker reliability was verified through comparison with existing research results. Integrated analysis of metabolome and proteome identified emerging properties difficult to grasp with the single omics approach, more reliably interpreted the cancer signaling pathway, and explored new drug targets. Especially, through this analysis, proteins (PPCS, PMP2, and TUBB) and metabolites (L-carnitine and PC-O (30:0)) related to the carnitine system involved in cancer plasticity were identified.
Immunoprofiling in Neuroendocrine Neoplasms Unveil Immunosuppressive Microenvironment
Authors: Busse Antonia , Mochmann Liliana H. , Spenke Christiane , Arsenic Ruza , Briest Franziska , Jöhrens Korinna , Lammert Hedwig , Sipos Bence , Kühl Anja A. , Wirtz Ralph , Pavel Marianne , Hummel Michael , Kaemmerer Daniel , Baum Richard P. , Grabowski Patricia
Published: November 2020

Checkpoint inhibitors have shown promising results in a variety of tumors; however, in neuroendocrine tumors (NET) and neuroendocrine carcinomas (NEC), low response rates were reported. We aimed herein to investigate the tumor immune microenvironment in NET/NEC to determine whether checkpoint pathways like programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) might play a role in immune escape and whether other escape mechanisms might need to be targeted to enable a functional antitumor response. Forty-eight NET and thirty NEC samples were analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and mRNA immunoprofiling including digital spatial profiling. Through IHC, both NET/NEC showed stromal, but less intratumoral CD3+ T cell infiltration, although this was significantly higher in NEC compared to NET. Expression of PD1, PD-L1, and T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (TIM3) on immune cells was low or nearly absent. mRNA immunoprofiling revealed low expression of IFNγ inducible genes in NET and NEC without any spatial heterogeneity. However, we observed an increased mRNA expression of chemokines, which attract myeloid cells in NET and NEC, and a high abundance of genes related to immunosuppressive myeloid cells and genes with immunosuppressive functions like CD47 and CD74. In conclusion, NET and NEC lack signs of an activation of the adaptive immune system, but rather show abundance of several immunosuppressive genes that represent potential targets for immunomodulation.
Copper-Containing Mixed Metal Oxides (Al, Fe, Mn) for Application in Three-Way Catalysis
Authors: Everbroeck Tim Van , Ciocarlan Radu-George , Hoey Wouter Van , Mertens Myrjam , Cool Pegie
Published: November 2020

Mixed oxides were synthesized by co-precipitation of a Cu source in combination with Al, Fe or Mn corresponding salts as precursors. The materials were calcined at 600 and 1000 °C in order to crystallize the phases and to mimic the reaction conditions of the catalytic application. At 600 °C a mixed spinel structure was only formed for the combination of Cu and Mn, while at 1000 °C all the materials showed mixed spinel formation. The catalysts were applied in three-way catalysis using a reactor with a gas mixture containing CO, NO and O2. All the materials calcined at 600 °C displayed the remarkable ability to oxidize CO with O2 but also to reduce NO with CO, while the pure oxides such as CuO and MnO2 were not able to. The high catalytic activity at 600 °C was attributed to small supported CuO particles present and imperfections in the spinel structure. Calcination at 1000 °C crystallized the structure further which led to a dramatic loss in catalytic activity, although CuAl2O4 and CuFe2O4 still converted some NO. The materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, H2-Temperatrue Programmed Reduction (H2-TPR), N2-sorption and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX).
RETRACTED: Li et al. Circular RNA circ-FoxO3 Inhibits Myoblast Cells Differentiation. Cells 2019, 8, 616
Authors:   Cells Editorial Office
Published: November 2020

It has come to our attention that two images in Figure 2A (100%), and Figure 2C (GM) of the manuscript [...]
Mechanisms of Action of EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Receptor Incorporated in Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Zanetti-Domingues Laura C. , Bonner Scott E. , Martin-Fernandez Marisa L. , Huber Veronica
Published: November 2020

EGFR and some of the cognate ligands extensively traffic in extracellular vesicles (EVs) from different biogenesis pathways. EGFR belongs to a family of four homologous tyrosine kinase receptors (TKRs). This family are one of the major drivers of cancer and is involved in several of the most frequent malignancies such as non-small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer and ovarian cancer. The carrier EVs exert crucial biological effects on recipient cells, impacting immunity, pre-metastatic niche preparation, angiogenesis, cancer cell stemness and horizontal oncogene transfer. While EV-mediated EGFR signalling is important to EGFR-driven cancers, little is known about the precise mechanisms by which TKRs incorporated in EVs play their biological role, their stoichiometry and associations to other proteins relevant to cancer pathology and EV biogenesis, and their means of incorporation in the target cell. In addition, it remains unclear whether different subtypes of EVs incorporate different complexes of TKRs with specific functions. A raft of high spatial and temporal resolution methods is emerging that could solve these and other questions regarding the activity of EGFR and its ligands in EVs. More importantly, methods are emerging to block or mitigate EV activity to suppress cancer progression and drug resistance. By highlighting key findings and areas that remain obscure at the intersection of EGFR signalling and EV action, we hope to cross-fertilise the two fields and speed up the application of novel techniques and paradigms to both.
Light-Regulated Transcription of a Mitochondrial-Targeted K+ Channel
Authors: Engel Anja J. , Winterstein Laura-Marie , Kithil Marina , Langhans Markus , Moroni Anna , Thiel Gerhard
Published: November 2020

The inner membranes of mitochondria contain several types of K+ channels, which modulate the membrane potential of the organelle and contribute in this way to cytoprotection and the regulation of cell death. To better study the causal relationship between K+ channel activity and physiological changes, we developed an optogenetic platform for a light-triggered modulation of K+ conductance in mitochondria. By using the light-sensitive interaction between cryptochrome 2 and the regulatory protein CIB1, we can trigger the transcription of a small and highly selective K+ channel, which is in mammalian cells targeted into the inner membrane of mitochondria. After exposing cells to very low intensities (≤0.16 mW/mm2) of blue light, the channel protein is detectable as an accumulation of its green fluorescent protein (GFP) tag in the mitochondria less than 1 h after stimulation. This system allows for an in vivo monitoring of crucial physiological parameters of mitochondria, showing that the presence of an active K+ channel causes a substantial depolarization compatible with the effect of an uncoupler. Elevated K+ conductance also results in a decrease in the Ca2+ concentration in the mitochondria but has no impact on apoptosis.
Examining the Relationship between Cost and Quality of Care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Beyond
Authors: Culbertson Lauren , Dukhovny Dmitry , Lapcharoensap Wannasiri
Published: November 2020

There is tremendous variation in costs of delivering health care, whether by country, hospital, or patient. However, the questions remain: what costs are reasonable? How does spending affect patient outcomes? We look to explore the relationship between cost and quality of care in adult, pediatric and neonatal literature. Health care stewardship initiatives attempt to address the issue of lowering costs while maintaining the same quality of care; but how do we define and deliver high value care to our patients? Ultimately, these questions remain challenging to tackle due to the heterogeneous definitions of cost and quality. Further standardization of these terms, as well as studying the variations of both costs and quality, may benefit future research on value in health care.
Exploring the Mediating Roles of State and Trait Anxiety on the Relationship between Middle Adolescents’ Cyberbullying and Depression
Authors: Grigore Ana-Nicoleta , Maftei Alexandra
Published: November 2020

Cyberbullying is a global problem with significant negative implications, especially among more vulnerable populations, such as adolescents. Previous research suggested that cyberbullying is significantly associated with depression, and anxiety seems to partially or fully mediate this relationship. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and the relationships between cyberbullying status (i.e., cyberbully, cyber victim, double role, or non-cyber), gender, and age. We also explored the mediating roles of state and trait anxiety on the relationship between adolescents’ cyberbullying victimization, cyber-aggressiveness, and depression. Our sample consisted of 501 middle adolescents aged from 12 to 15 years (M = 14.00; SD = 0.80; 51.1% males). The results suggested no significant associations between participants’ status, gender, or age. Mediation analyses suggested that the relationship between cyber-victimization, cyber-aggressiveness, and depression was mediated by state anxiety and not trait anxiety. We discuss the implications of the current findings in understanding cyberbullying’s psychological consequences and their relevant practical implications for prevention and intervention programs.
Microstructure and Properties of Polytetrafluoroethylene Composites Modified by Carbon Materials and Aramid Fibers
Authors: Zhang Fubao , Zhang Jiaqiao , Zhu Yu , Wang Xingxing , Jin Yuyang
Published: November 2020

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is polymerized by tetrafluoroethylene, which has high corrosion resistance, self-lubrication and high temperature resistance. However, due to the large expansion coefficient, high temperature will gradually weaken the intermolecular bonding force of PTFE, which will lead to the enhancement of permeation absorption and the limitation of the application range of fluoroplastics. In order to improve the performance of PTFE, the modified polytetrafluoroethylene, filled by carbon materials and aramid fiber with different scales, is prepared through the compression and sintering. Moreover, the mechanical properties and wear resistance of the prepared composite materials are tested. In addition, the influence of different types of filler materials and contents on the properties of PTFE is studied. According to the experiment results, the addition of carbon fibers with different scales reduces the tensile and impact properties of the composite materials, but the elastic modulus and wear resistance are significantly improved. Among them, the wear rate of 7 μm carbon fiber modified PTFE has decreased by 70%, and the elastic modulus has increased by 70%. The addition of aramid fiber filler significantly reduces the tensile and impact properties of the composite, but its elastic modulus and wear resistance are significantly improved. Among them, the wear rate of the modified composite material with 3% alumina particles and 5% aramid pulp decreased by 68%, and the elastic modulus increased by 206%.
Room- and high temperature Wear Resistance of MCrAlY Coatings Deposited by Detonation Gun (D-gun) and Supersonic Plasma Spraying (SSPS) Techniques
Authors: Kilic Mehmet , Ozkan Dervis , Gok Mustafa Sabri , Karaoglanli Abdullah Cahit
Published: November 2020

In this study, CoNiCrAlY metallic coatings were deposited on an Inconel 718 nickel-based superalloy substrate material using the detonation gun (D-gun) and supersonic plasma spraying (SSPS) techniques. The microstructural and mechanical properties in addition to their room and high temperature wear behavior of the produced coatings were evaluated. The wear tests were performed at room temperature (rt), 250 and 500 °C using 2N and X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analyses of the worn coatings were performed to assess their wear performance. The coatings produced with D-gun process exhibited higher hardness and lower porosity (550 ± 50 HV0.25 hardness and 1.2 ± 1.0% porosity) than SSPS coatings (with 380 ± 30 HV0.25 hardness and 1.5 ± 1.0% porosity) which resulted in better room- and high temperature wear performance for D-gun coatings. The worn surfaces of both coatings exhibited formation of tribological layers and superficial microstructural changes by varying temperature and load conditions. Increasing load and temperature resulted in increased wear loss whereas increasing temperature resulted in reduced COF values for both coatings.
Microfibrillated Cellulose Based Barrier Coatings for Abrasive Paper Products
Authors: Kumar Vinay , Kenttä Eija , Andersson Petter , Forsström Ulla
Published: November 2020

Paper-based abrasive products are multilayer structures in which the first layer on the paper substrate is usually a latex barrier coating to prevent the migration of adhesive glue into the substrate. The high coat weight (10 g/m2) of latex barrier layers is a cause of environmental concerns. Hence, alternative materials that can provide the barrier function at lower coat weights are desired. In this work, microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) combined with poly(vinyl) alcohol (PVA) were explored as suitable alternatives to the current latex coatings. Barrier coating formulations containing PVA, MFC, and silica (SiO2) were developed and applied to a paper substrate using a rod coating method on a pilot scale. Coating quality and barrier performance were characterized using scanning electron microscope images, air permeance, surface roughness, water contact angle, KIT test, and oil Cobb measurements. The barrier coatings were also studied for adhesion to the subsequent coating layer. An optimal barrier function was achieved with the developed coatings at a low coat weight of ca. 3 g/m2. The adhesion of pure PVA and PVA-MFC barrier coatings to the subsequent coating layer was inadequate; however, silica addition was found to improve the adhesion.
Influence of Electrolyte Temperature on Morphology and Properties of Composite Anodic Film on Titanium Alloy Ti-10V-2Fe-3Al
Authors: Wu Yulong , Wu Haisheng , Wu Liang , Xie Zhi-Hui , Liu Lei , Dai Xu , Zhang Gen , Yao Wenhui , Li Yu , Pan Fusheng
Published: November 2020

In this study, we introduced a novel environmentally-friendly electrolyte consisting of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) nanoparticles and malic acid solution to fabricate composite anodic film on Ti-10V-2Fe-3Al alloy at different electrolyte temperatures. The morphology revealed that the PTFE nanoparticles were successfully incorporated into composite anodic films and embedded preferentially in the pores and cracks. Their performances (wear, corrosion and hydrophobicity) were evaluated via electrochemical tests, ball on disc tests, and a contact angle (CA) meter. Compared to the substrate of titanium alloy Ti-10V-2Fe-3Al, the composite anodic films exhibited the low wear rates, high corrosion resistance and good hydrophobicity. However, the microstructure and morphology of the films were affected by the electrolyte temperature. As a result, their performances were changed greatly as a function of the temperature and the film fabricated at 20 °C exhibited better performances (CA = 131.95, icorr = 6.75 × 10−8 A·cm−2, friction coefficient = 0.14) than those at other electrolyte temperatures. In addition, the corresponding lubrication mechanism of the composite anodic films was discussed.
The Impact of Fungicides, Plasma, UV-Additives and Weathering on the Adhesion Strength of Acrylic and Alkyd Coatings to the Norway Spruce Wood
Authors: Reinprecht Ladislav , Tiňo Radovan , Šomšák Marek
Published: November 2020

The adhesion strength between the transparent acrylic or alkyd coatings and the Norway spruce (Picea abies Karst L.) wood was determined by EN ISO 4624 and analyzed concerning four variables: (a) fungicidal pre-treatment of wood with boric acid or benzalkonium chloride, (b) cold plasma modification of wood surfaces, (c) presence of hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS) or hydroxyphenyl-benzotriazoles (BTZ) in the role of UV-additives in coatings, and (d) weathering of coated wood—lasting 1 week in Xenotest by a modified EN 927-6, or 14, 28 and 42 weeks outdoors at 45° by EN 927-3. In the un-weathered state, the adhesion strength was positively affected by the initial plasma modification of wood surfaces, more evident with the application of acrylic water-borne coatings. On the contrary, the adhesion strength was not influenced by the fungicidal pre-treatment of wood and by the UV-additive’s presence in coatings. The adhesion was negatively affected by weathering—exponentially outdoor—irrespective of the fungicidal pre-treatment of wood, the plasma modification of wood surfaces, the coating type, and the presence of UV-additive in coatings.
Porous CaP Coatings Formed by Combination of Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation and RF-Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Kozelskaya Anna , Dubinenko Gleb , Vorobyev Alexandr , Fedotkin Alexander , Korotchenko Natalia , Gigilev Alexander , Shesterikov Evgeniy , Zhukov Yuriy , Tverdokhlebov Sergei
Published: November 2020

The porous CaP subcoating was formed on the Ti6Al4V titanium alloy substrate by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). Then, upper coatings were formed by radio frequency magnetron sputtering (RFMS) over the PEO subcoating by the sputtering of various CaP powder targets: β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), hydroxyapatite (HA), Mg-substituted β-tricalcium phosphate (Mg-β-TCP) and Mg-substituted hydroxyapatite (Mg-HA), Sr-substituted β-tricalcium phosphate (Sr-β-TCP) and Sr-substituted hydroxyapatite (Sr-HA). The coating surface morphology was studied by scanning electron and atomic force microscopy. The chemical composition was determined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The phase composition of the coatings was studied by X-ray diffraction analysis. The Young’s modulus of the coatings was studied by nanoindentation test. RF-magnetron sputtering treatment of PEO subcoating resulted in multileveled roughness, increased Ca/P ratio and Young’s modulus and enrichment with Sr and Mg. Sputtering of the upper layer also helped to adjust the coating crystallinity.
Fungal Diversity
Authors: Van Bael Sunshine A.
Published: November 2020

Fungi play key roles at two levels of ecological organization: in communities, fungi are symbionts of plants and animals, while in ecosystems, fungi are decomposers that recycle nutrients to other organisms [...]
Effect of Enhanced Gravity on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Al0.9CoCrFeNi High-Entropy Alloy
Authors: Shi Anjun , Li Ruixuan , Zhang Yong , Wang Zhe , Guo Zhancheng
Published: November 2020

The influence of enhanced gravity on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the Al0.9CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy, which was solidified under normal gravity (acceleration 1 g) and enhanced gravity (acceleration 140 g, acceleration 210 g, and acceleration 360 g) conditions is reported in this paper. Its solidification under enhanced gravity fields resulted in refinement of the columnar nondendritic grain structure and an increase in the area fraction of the body-centered cubic (BCC) structure phases. The mass transfer strengthened by enhanced gravity promoted element diffusion and enrichment, which caused changes in the composition and microstructure that, in turn, affected the mechanical properties of the alloy. The compressive strength and plasticity of the sample solidified at acceleration 360 g were equal to 2845 MPa and 36.4%, respectively, which are the highest values reported to date for Al0.9CoCrFeNi alloy.
Experimental Evaluation of LoRa in Transit Vehicle Tracking Service Based on Intelligent Transportation Systems and IoT
Authors: Jurado Murillo Felipe , Quintero Yoshioka Juan Sebastián , Varela López Andrés David , Salazar-Cabrera Ricardo , Pachón de la Cruz Álvaro , Madrid Molina Juan Manuel
Published: November 2020

Long-range (LoRa) technology is a low power wide area network (LPWAN) technology that is currently being used for development of Internet of things (IoT)-based solutions. Transit transport, mainly in medium-sized cities where transit vehicles do not have exclusive lanes, is a service that can be improved with a tracking service using technology such as LoRa. Although some proposals exist, there is not enough experimental information to validate the LoRa technology as adequate. This article: (a) evaluates the operation of LoRa technology in a transit vehicle tracking service in a medium-sized city, based on an Intelligent Transportation Systems architecture and IoT; and (b) investigates optimal LoRa technology configuration parameters for the service. Experiments were performed in a semi-controlled environment using LoRa devices and a gateway, by measuring the received packets and the receive signal strength indicator (RSSI) and modifying: (a) distance; (b) number of devices; and (c) the main LoRa transmission parameters. Obtained results show the ideal values of parameters vary considerably with distance and number of devices used. There were very few settings of the experiments in which the RSSI and packet levels were adequate while distance and number of devices were both changed.
Fault Classification of Nonlinear Small Sample Data through Feature Sub-Space Neighbor Vote
Authors: Du Xian , Yan Jingyang , Ma Rui
Published: November 2020

The fault classification of a small sample of high dimension is challenging, especially for a nonlinear and non-Gaussian manufacturing process. In this paper, a similarity-based feature selection and sub-space neighbor vote method is proposed to solve this problem. To capture the dynamics, nonlinearity, and non-Gaussianity in the irregular time series data, high order spectral features, and fractal dimension features are extracted, selected, and stacked in a regular matrix. To address the problem of a small sample, all labeled fault data are used for similarity decisions for a specific fault type. The distances between the new data and all fault types are calculated in their feature subspaces. The new data are classified to the nearest fault type by majority probability voting of the distances. Meanwhile, the selected features, from respective measured variables, indicate the cause of the fault. The proposed method is evaluated on a publicly available benchmark of a real semiconductor etching dataset. It is demonstrated that by using the high order spectral features and fractal dimensionality features, the proposed method can achieve more than 84% fault recognition accuracy. The resulting feature subspace can be used to match any new fault data to the fingerprint feature subspace of each fault type, and hence can pinpoint the root cause of a fault in a manufacturing process.
An Experimental Study of Building Blocks of Lattice-Based NIST Post-Quantum Cryptographic Algorithms
Authors: Imran Malik , Abideen Zain Ul , Pagliarini Samuel
Published: November 2020

Security of currently deployed public-key cryptography algorithms is foreseen to be vulnerable against quantum computer attacks. Hence, a community effort exists to develop post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms, most notably the NIST PQC standardization competition. In this work, we have investigated how lattice-based candidate algorithms fare when implemented in hardware. To achieve this, we have assessed 12 lattice-based algorithms in order to identify their basic building blocks. We assume the algorithms will be implemented in an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) platform and the targeted technology is 65 nm. To estimate the characteristics of each algorithm, we have assessed the following characteristics: memory requirements, use of multipliers, and use of hashing functions. Furthermore, for these building blocks, we have collected area and power figures for all studied algorithms by making use of commercial memory compilers and standard cells. Our results reveal interesting insights about the relative importance of each building block for the overall cryptosystem, which can be used for guiding ASIC designers when selecting an algorithm or when deciding where to focus optimization efforts such that the final design respects requirements and design constraints.
A New Card-Linked Loyalty Program: Estimated and Anticipated Benefits for Payment Transaction Parties
Authors: Sitek Albert , Kotulski Zbigniew
Published: November 2020

Electronic card payments are getting more and more popular, mainly because of their simplicity, convenience, processing time and high level of security. The fact that a single payment card is issued for a particular cardholder makes it possible to link a card to various services. In this paper, we investigated a usage of a payment card in the loyalty program that incorporates our Contextual Risk Management System (CRMS) to assure a novel intangible reward: Shorter transaction processing time. In the beginning, we emphasize the importance of soft benefits in modern loyalty programs and recall the risk management algorithms and the reputation system that has been used in the CRMS. Then, using an extensive dataset of 2.5 million payment transaction traces (collected within a year from 68 terminals) we estimate potential benefits for merchants and cardholders and try to predict an effect of this system for the future. We also discuss the impact of this system on the real and user-perceived security level.
Thermoformed Containers Based on Starch and Starch/Coffee Waste Biochar Composites
Authors: Diaz Carlos A. , Shah Rahul Ketan , Evans Tyler , Trabold Thomas A. , Draper Kathleen
Published: November 2020

Biodegradable containers support zero-waste initiatives when alternative end-of-life scenarios are available (e.g., composting, bio digestion). Thermoplastic starch (TPS) has emerged as a readily biodegradable and inexpensive biomaterial that can replace traditional plastics in applications such as food service ware and packaging. This study has two aims. First, demonstrate the thermoformability of starch/polycaprolactone (PCL) as a thermoplastic material with varying starch loadings. Second, incorporate biochar as a sustainable filler that can potentially lower the cost and enhance compostability. Biochar is a stable form of carbon produced by thermochemical conversion of organic biomass, such as food waste, and its incorporation into consumer products could promote a circular economy. Thermoformed samples were successfully made with starch contents from 40 to 60 wt.% without biochar. Increasing the amount of starch increased the viscosity of the material, which in turn affected the compression molding (sheet manufacturing) and thermoforming conditions. PCL content reduced the extent of biodegradation in soil burial experiments and increased the strength and elongation at break of the material. A blend of 50:50 starch:PCL was selected for incorporating biochar. Thermoformed containers were manufactured with 10, 20, and 30 wt.% biochar derived from waste coffee grounds. The addition of biochar decreased the elongation at break but did not significantly affect the modulus of elasticity or tensile strength. The results demonstrate the feasibility of using starch and biochar for the manufacturing of thermoformed containers.
Investigation on System for Renewable Electricity Storage in Small Scale Integrating Photovoltaics, Batteries, and Hydrogen Generator
Authors: Węcel Daniel , Jurczyk Michał , Uchman Wojciech , Skorek-Osikowska Anna
Published: November 2020

In this article the solution based on hydrogen generation to increase the flexibility of energy storage systems is proposed. Operating characteristics of a hydrogen generator with integrated electrical energy storage and a photovoltaic installation were determined. The key role of the electricity storage in the proposed system was to maintain the highest operating efficiency related to the nominal parameters of the hydrogen generator. The hydrogen generators achieved the highest energy efficiency for the nominal operating point at the highest power output. Lead-acid batteries were used to ensure the optimal operating conditions for the hydrogen generator supplied with renewable energy throughout the day. The proposed system reduces significantly the hydrogen generator nominal power and devices in system operate in such a way to improve their efficiency and durability. The relations between individual components and their constraints were determined. The proposed solution is fully in-line with previously investigated technologies for improving grid stability and can help incorporate renewable energy sources to increase the sustainability of the energy sector and green hydrogen production.
Potential Liquid-Organic Hydrogen Carrier (LOHC) Systems: A Review on Recent Progress
Authors: Rao Purna , Yoon Minyoung
Published: November 2020

The depletion of fossil fuels and rising global warming challenges encourage to find safe and viable energy storage and delivery technologies. Hydrogen is a clean, efficient energy carrier in various mobile fuel-cell applications and owned no adverse effects on the environment and human health. However, hydrogen storage is considered a bottleneck problem for the progress of the hydrogen economy. Liquid-organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) are organic substances in liquid or semi-solid states that store hydrogen by catalytic hydrogenation and dehydrogenation processes over multiple cycles and may support a future hydrogen economy. Remarkably, hydrogen storage in LOHC systems has attracted dramatically more attention than conventional storage systems, such as high-pressure compression, liquefaction, and absorption/adsorption techniques. Potential LOHC media must provide fully reversible hydrogen storage via catalytic processes, thermal stability, low melting points, favorable hydrogenation thermodynamics and kinetics, large-scale availability, and compatibility with current fuel energy infrastructure to practically employ these molecules in various applications. In this review, we present various considerable aspects for the development of ideal LOHC systems. We highlight the recent progress of LOHC candidates and their catalytic approach, as well as briefly discuss the theoretical insights for understanding the reaction mechanism.
Super-Twisting Algorithm Applied to Velocity Control of DC Motor without Mechanical Sensors Dependence
Authors: Valenzuela Fredy A. , Ramírez Reymundo , Martínez Fermín , Morfín Onofre A. , Castañeda Carlos E.
Published: November 2020

A DC motor velocity control in feedback systems usually requires a velocity sensor, which increases the controller cost. Additionally, the velocity sensor used in industrial applications presents several disadvantages such as maintenance requirements and signal conditioning. In this work, we propose a robust velocity control scheme applied to a DC motor based on estimation strategies using a sliding-mode observer. This means that measurements with mechanical sensors are not required in the controller design. The proposed observer estimates the rotational velocity and load torque of the motor. The controller design applies the exact-linearization technique combined with the super-twisting algorithm to achieve robust performance in the closed-loop system. The controller validation was carried out by experimental tests using a workbench, which is composed of a control and data acquisition Digital Signal Proccessor board, a DC-DC electronic converter, an interface board for signals conditioning, and a DC electric generator connected to an adjustable resistive load. The simulation and experimental results show a significant performance of the proposed control scheme. During tests, the accuracy, robustness, and speed response on the controller were evaluated and the experimental results were compared with a classic proportional-integral controller, which uses a conventional encoder.
Effect of Particle Size on Pore Characteristics of Organic-Rich Shales: Investigations from Small-Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) and Fluid Intrusion Techniques
Authors: Shu Yi , Xu Yanran , Jiang Shu , Zhang Linhao , Zhao Xiang , Pan Zhejun , Blach Tomasz P. , Sun Liangwei , Bai Liangfei , Hu Qinhong , Sun Mengdi
Published: November 2020

The sample size or particle size of shale plays a significant role in the characterization of pores by various techniques. To systematically investigate the influence of particle size on pore characteristics and the optimum sample size for different methods, we conducted complementary tests on two overmature marine shale samples with different sample sizes. The tests included small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), gas (N2, CO2, and H2O) adsorption, mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP), and field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) imaging. The results indicate that artificial pores and fractures may occur on the surface or interior of the particles during the pulverization process, and some isolated pores may be exposed to the particle surface or connected by new fractures, thus improving the pore connectivity of the shale. By comparing the results of different approaches, we established a hypothetical model to analyze how the crushing process affects the pore structure of overmature shales. Our results imply that intact wafers with a thickness of 0.15–0.5 mm and cubic samples (~1 cm3) are optimal for performing SANS and MICP analyses. Meanwhile, the 35–80 mesh particle size fraction provides reliable data for various gas physisorption tests in overmature shale. Due to the intrinsic heterogeneity of shale, future research on pore characteristics in shales needs a multidisciplinary approach to obtain a more comprehensive, larger scale, and more reliable understanding.
Particular Methods of Simultaneous Collection of Personal Mobility Research Data from Several Points
Authors: Tantau Adrian , Gavrilescu Ileana , Fratila Laurentiu
Published: November 2020

Until three or four decades ago, humanity was no longer constrained by the depletion of certain natural resources (especially energy) and the intensified degradation of the natural environment. The consequences of these major crises—such as the economic, financial, and social upheaval of the world, dramatic climate change, and the entry of politics into a Brownian sarabande—necessitate the transition of civilization to another viable formula. Adequate, timely, and sustainable solutions are being sought, from the subsistence ones to those of economic efficiency. Thus, the mobility revolution is credited as one of the most important levers of change. Starting from the reality that most cars in traffic are not occupied at their maximum capacity, some ideas have already been advanced and even put into practice—“inspired”—which would improve the efficiency in this regard. For example, the reduction in the number of seats in cars and, correspondingly, the considerable reduction in the dimensions of cars are already found in the design of mini-cars and the correlation of identical interests of the self-movement of several people and the integration of this coincidence in a single concurrent mobility formula is already functional through the ride sharing system. Along with intelligent mobility management and the transition to electric and autonomous mobility, streamlining the occupancy of moving cars is seen as a great potential of the mobility revolution. Within the limits of the methodology of data collection in economic statistics, this study proposes a complex technique associated with a convincing tactic of empirical measurement of specific indices of urban traffic issues. The special method is characterized by the simultaneity and plurality of observation points followed by the correlation of the values obtained from the measurement thus performed, with the results from the video recordings taken at the same time. This method will increase the methodological accuracy of data collection in economic statistics. By advancing this method, this study aims to capture the occupancy rates of people in urban vehicle traffic, in different cities, using a combined method.
Experimental Study of the Combustion Efficiency in Multi-Element Gas-Centered Swirl Coaxial Injectors
Authors: Woo Seongphil , Lee Jungho , Han Yeoungmin , Yoon Youngbin
Published: November 2020

The effects of the momentum-flux ratio of propellant upon the combustion efficiency of a gas-centered-swirl-coaxial (GCSC) injector used in the combustion chamber of a full-scale 9-tonf staged-combustion-cycle engine were studied experimentally. In the combustion experiment, liquid oxygen was used as an oxidizer, and kerosene was used as fuel. The liquid oxygen and kerosene burned in the preburner drive the turbine of the turbopump under the oxidizer-rich hot-gas condition before flowing into the GCSC injector of the combustion chamber. The oxidizer-rich hot gas is mixed with liquid kerosene passed through combustion chamber’s cooling channel at the injector outlet. This mixture has a dimensionless momentum-flux ratio that depends upon the dispensing speed of the two fluids. Combustion tests were performed under varying mixture ratios and combustion pressures for different injector shapes and numbers of injectors, and the characteristic velocities and performance efficiencies of the combustion were compared. It was found that, for 61 gas-centered swirl-coaxial injectors, as the moment flux ratio increased from 9 to 23, the combustion-characteristic velocity increased linearly and the performance efficiency increased from 0.904 to 0.938. In addition, excellent combustion efficiency was observed when the combustion chamber had a large number of injectors at the same momentum-flux ratio.
Surface Temperature Distribution Characteristics of Marangoni Condensation for Ethanol–Water Mixture Vapor Based on Thermal Infrared Images
Authors: Zhang Guilong , Ma Ziqiang , Li Heng , Wang Jinshi
Published: November 2020

Marangoni condensation is formed due to the surface tension gradient caused by the local temperature or concentration gradient on the condensate surface; thus, the investigation of the surface temperature distribution characteristics is crucial to reveal the condensation mechanism and heat transfer characteristics. Few studies have been conducted on the temperature distribution of the condensate surface. In this study, thermal infrared images were used to measure the temperature distributions of the condensate surface during Marangoni condensation for ethanol–water mixture vapor. The results showed that the surface temperature distribution of the single droplet was uneven, and a large temperature gradient, approximately 15.6 °C/mm, existed at the edge of the condensate droplets. The maximum temperature difference on the droplet surface reached up to 8 °C. During the condensation process, the average surface temperature of a single droplet firstly increased rapidly and then slowly until it approached a certain temperature, whereas that of the condensate surface increased rapidly at the beginning and then changed periodically in a cosine-like curve. The present results will be used to obtain local heat flux and heat transfer coefficients on the condensing surface, and to further establish the relationship between heat transfer and temperature distribution characteristics.
Mild Thermal Pre-Treatment of Waste Activated Sludge to Increase Loading Capacity, Biogas Production, and Solids’ Degradation: A Pilot-Scale Study
Authors: Gonzalez Adrian , Guo Hongxiao , Ortega-Ibáñez Oscar , Petri Coert , van Lier Jules B. , de Kreuk Merle , Hendriks Alexander
Published: November 2020

Sludge pre-treatments are emerging as part of the disposal process of solid by-products of wastewater purification. One of their benefits is the increase in methane production rate and/or yield, along with higher loading capacities of existing digesters. In this study, we report the performance of a pilot-scale compartmentalized digester (volume of 18.6 m3) that utilized a mild thermal pre-treatment at 70 °C coupled with hydrogen peroxide dosing. Compared with a reference conventional anaerobic digester, this technique allowed an increased organic loading rate from 1.4 to 4.2 kg volatile solids (VS)/(m3d) and an increment in the solids degradation from 40 to 44%. To some extent, these improvements were promoted by the solubilization of the tightly-bound fraction of the extracellular polymeric substances to looser and more accessible fractions without the formation of refractory compounds. In sum, our results suggest that this pre-treatment method could increase the treatment capacity of existing digesters without significant retrofitting.