bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Are the Biomarkers for Immunotherapy in SCLC?
Authors: Longo Vito , Catino Annamaria , Montrone Michele , Pizzutilo Pamela , Annese Tiziana , Pesola Francesco , Marech Ilaria , Cassiano Sandro , Ribatti Domenico , Galetta Domenico
Published: October 2021

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive malignancy that exhibits a rapid doubling time, a high growth fraction, and the early development of widespread metastases. The addition of immune checkpoint inhibitors to first-line chemotherapy represents the first significant improvement of systemic therapy in several decades. However, in contrast to its effects on non-SCLC, the advantageous effects of immunotherapy addition are modest in SCLC. In particular, only a small number of SCLC patients benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors. Additionally, biomarkers selection is lacking for SCLC, with clinical trials largely focusing on unselected populations. Here, we review the data concerning the major biomarkers for immunotherapy, namely, programmed death ligand 1 expression and tumour mutational burden. Furthermore, we explore other potential biomarkers, including the role of the immune microenvironment in SCLC, the role of genetic alterations, and the potential links between neurological paraneoplastic syndromes, serum anti-neuronal nuclear antibodies, and outcomes in SCLC patients treated with immunotherapy.
PIM1 Inhibition Affects Glioblastoma Stem Cell Behavior and Kills Glioblastoma Stem-like Cells
Authors: Seifert Carolin , Balz Ellen , Herzog Susann , Korolev Anna , Gaßmann Sebastian , Paland Heiko , Fink Matthias A. , Grube Markus , Marx Sascha , Jedlitschky Gabriele , Tzvetkov Mladen V. , Rauch Bernhard H. , Schroeder Henry W. S. , Bien-Möller Sandra
Published: October 2021

Despite comprehensive therapy and extensive research, glioblastoma (GBM) still represents the most aggressive brain tumor in adults. Glioma stem cells (GSCs) are thought to play a major role in tumor progression and resistance of GBM cells to radiochemotherapy. The PIM1 kinase has become a focus in cancer research. We have previously demonstrated that PIM1 is involved in survival of GBM cells and in GBM growth in a mouse model. However, little is known about the importance of PIM1 in cancer stem cells. Here, we report on the role of PIM1 in GBM stem cell behavior and killing. PIM1 inhibition negatively regulates the protein expression of the stem cell markers CD133 and Nestin in GBM cells (LN-18, U-87 MG). In contrast, CD44 and the astrocytic differentiation marker GFAP were up-regulated. Furthermore, PIM1 expression was increased in neurospheres as a model of GBM stem-like cells. Treatment of neurospheres with PIM1 inhibitors (TCS PIM1-1, Quercetagetin, and LY294002) diminished the cell viability associated with reduced DNA synthesis rate, increased caspase 3 activity, decreased PCNA protein expression, and reduced neurosphere formation. Our results indicate that PIM1 affects the glioblastoma stem cell behavior, and its inhibition kills glioblastoma stem-like cells, pointing to PIM1 targeting as a potential anti-glioblastoma therapy.
Ventricular Septation and Outflow Tract Development in Crocodilians Result in Two Aortas with Bicuspid Semilunar Valves
Authors: Poelmann Robert E. , Gittenberger-de Groot Adriana C. , Goerdajal Charissa , Grewal Nimrat , De Bakker Merijn A. G. , Richardson Michael K.
Published: October 2021

Background: The outflow tract of crocodilians resembles that of birds and mammals as ventricular septation is complete. The arterial anatomy, however, presents with a pulmonary trunk originating from the right ventricular cavum, and two aortas originating from either the right or left ventricular cavity. Mixing of blood in crocodilians cannot occur at the ventricular level as in other reptiles but instead takes place at the aortic root level by a shunt, the foramen of Panizza, the opening of which is guarded by two facing semilunar leaflets of both bicuspid aortic valves. Methods: Developmental stages of Alligator mississipiensis, Crocodilus niloticus and Caiman latirostris were studied histologically. Results and Conclusions: The outflow tract septation complex can be divided into two components. The aorto-pulmonary septum divides the pulmonary trunk from both aortas, whereas the interaortic septum divides the systemic from the visceral aorta. Neural crest cells are most likely involved in the formation of both components. Remodeling of the endocardial cushions and both septa results in the formation of bicuspid valves in all three arterial trunks. The foramen of Panizza originates intracardially as a channel in the septal endocardial cushion.
Association of Performance in Strength and Plyometric Tests with Change of Direction Performance in Young Female Team-Sport Athletes
Authors: Falch Hallvard Nygaard , Kristiansen Eirik Lindset , Haugen Markus Estifanos , van den Tillaar Roland
Published: October 2021

The change of direction (COD) ability is a task-specific skill dependent on different factors such as the degree of the turn, which has led to differentiating CODs as more force- (>90°) or velocity-oriented (<90°). Considering force and velocity requirements is of importance when designing sport-specific training programs for enhancing COD performance. Thus, 25 female handball and soccer players participated in this study, which investigated the association between three different strength and plyometric exercises and force- and velocity-oriented COD performance. By utilizing the median split analysis, the participants were further divided into a fast (n = 8) and a slow (n = 8) COD group, to investigate differences in step kinematics between fast and slow performers. The correlational analysis revealed that the bilateral back squat and unilateral quarter squat were significantly associated with several force- and velocity-oriented COD performance (r = −0.46 to −0.64), while the association between plyometric and COD performance was limited (r < 0.44). The fast COD group revealed higher levels of strength, jump height, peak velocities, higher step frequencies, shorter ground contact times, and greater acceleration and braking power (d > 1.29, p < 0.03). It was concluded that the observed correlation between strength and COD performance might be due to stronger athletes being able to produce more workload in a shorter time, which was supported by the step kinematics.
From the Outgoing Editor
Authors: De Boeck Paul
Published: October 2021

The Journal of Intelligence was founded in 2013, eight years ago [...]
Machine Learning of Surface Layer Property Prediction for Milling Operations
Authors: Uhlmann Eckart , Holznagel Tobias , Schehl Philipp , Bode Yannick
Published: October 2021

Tool wear and cutting parameters have a significant effect on the surface layer properties in milling. Since the relation between tool wear, cutting parameters, and surface layer properties is mostly unknown, the latter cannot be controlled during production and may vary from part to part as tool wear progresses. To account for this uncertainty and to prevent premature failure, components often need to be oversized or surface layer properties need to be adjusted in subsequent manufacturing processes. Several approaches have been made to obtain models that predict the surface layer properties induced by manufacturing processes. However, those approaches need to be calibrated with a considerable number of experimental trials. As trials are time-consuming and surface layer measurements are laborious, no industrial applications have been realized. Complex models have one major drawback. They have to be re-parameterized as soon as process characteristics change. Therefore, manual experimental parameterization does not appear to be a feasible approach for industrial application. A highly automated approach for the machine learning of the relation between tool wear, cutting parameters and surface layer properties is presented in this paper. The amount of obtained measurement data allows a fundamental analysis of the approach, which paves the way for further developments.
Preliminary Evaluation of Potential Impacts Associated with Small Cetacean Remote Biopsy Sampling by Controlled Testing on Stranded Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)
Authors: Ronje Errol I. , Brechtel Casey
Published: October 2021

To explore the potential macroscopic tissue effects of select remote biopsy tools to common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), carcasses were darted and their traumatic effects on the anatomy in target and non-target areas of the body were described. In total, 87 samples were collected (target area, n = 19; non-target area, n = 68) within standardized grid partitions from five carcasses of sub-adult to adult age classes with a range of body condition scores. We broadly classified impacts penetrating completely through the blubber into muscle or deeper internal tissues as over-penetrations (n = 51/87, 59%). For samples collected in the defined target area, there was a low number of over-penetrations (n = 5/51; 10%). However, for samples collected in the defined, non-target areas, a much higher number of over-penetrations occurred (n = 45/51 88%). A visual examination of some samples indicated that sample length and appearance may not be reliable guides to assess the penetration depth of the wounds. These preliminary results suggest samples collected in non-targeted areas could pose much higher risk to the individual. We encourage other researchers considering the use of remote biopsy tools to conduct similar assessments prior to field sampling to better understand the potential consequences of misplaced samples with a view towards continually improving remote biopsy tools and techniques for the benefit of cetacean welfare.
Regioselective Synthesis of 5-Propyl-2-((trityloxy)methyl)thiophene-3-carbaldehyde
Authors: Bar Sukanta
Published: October 2021

5-propyl-2-((trityloxy)methyl)thiophene-3-carbaldehyde was synthesized by using the concept of chemo- and regioselective Br/Li exchange reaction from 3-bromo-5-propyl-2-((trityloxy)methyl)thiophene. This is a five-step protocol starting from thiophene with an overall yield of 33%. These lithium/halogen exchange reactions were carried out at −78 °C to rt over the period of 1 to 18 h depending on the reactivity of electrophiles.
Processing of Al2O3-AlN Ceramics and Their Structural, Mechanical, and Tribological Characterization
Authors: Varanasi Dheeraj , Furkó Monika , Balázsi Katalin , Balázsi Csaba
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study is to present a novel, lower sintering temperature preparation, processing, structural, mechanical, and tribological testing of the AlN-Al2O3 ceramics. The precursor powder of AlN was subjected to oxidation in ambient environment at 900 °C for 3, 10, and 20 h, respectively. These oxidized powders were characterized by SEM and XRD to reveal their morphology, phase, and crystal structure. The SEM results showed coarse powder particles and the presence of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) phase at the surface of aluminum nitride (AlN). The XRD analysis has shown increasing aluminum-oxy-nitride conversion of aluminum nitride as the holding time of oxidation increased. The highest percentage of conversion of AlN powder to AlN-Al2O3 was observed after 10 h. Simultaneously the powders were compacted and sintered using the hot isostatic pressing (HIP) under inert environment (N2 gas) at 1700 °C, 20 MPa for 5 h. This led to the compaction and increase in density of the final samples. Mechanical tests, such as bending test and tribology tests, were carried out on the samples. The mechanical properties of the samples were observed to improve in the oxidized samples compared to the precursor AlN. Moreover, applying longer oxidation time, the mechanical properties of the sintered samples enhanced significantly. Optimum qualitative (microstructure, oxide percentage) and quantitative (tribology, hardness, and bending tests) properties were observed in samples with 10-h oxidation time.
Additive Manufacturing for Neurosurgery: Digital Light Processing of Individualized Patient-Specific Cerebral Aneurysms
Authors: Guarino Stefano , Marchese Enrico , Ponticelli Gennaro Salvatore , Scerrati Alba , Tagliaferri Vincenzo , Trovalusci Federica
Published: October 2021

This study aims at demonstrating the feasibility of reproducing individualized patient-specific three-dimensional models of cerebral aneurysms by using the direct light processing (DLP) 3D printing technique in a low-time and inexpensive way. Such models were used to help neurosurgeons understand the anatomy of the aneurysms together with the surrounding vessels and their relationships, providing, therefore, a tangible supporting tool with which to train and plan surgical operations. The starting 3D models were obtained by processing the computed tomography angiographies and the digital subtraction angiographies of three patients. Then, a 3D DLP printer was used to print the models, and, if acceptable, on the basis of the neurosurgeon’s opinion, they were used for the planning of the neurosurgery operation and patient information. All the models were printed within three hours, providing a comprehensive representation of the cerebral aneurysms and the surrounding structures and improving the understanding of their anatomy and simplifying the planning of the surgical operation.
Recent Progress in Multiphase Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Fortulan Raphael , Aminorroaya Yamini Sima
Published: October 2021

Thermoelectric materials, which directly convert thermal energy to electricity and vice versa, are considered a viable source of renewable energy. However, the enhancement of conversion efficiency in these materials is very challenging. Recently, multiphase thermoelectric materials have presented themselves as the most promising materials to achieve higher thermoelectric efficiencies than single-phase compounds. These materials provide higher degrees of freedom to design new compounds and adopt new approaches to enhance the electronic transport properties of thermoelectric materials. Here, we have summarised the current developments in multiphase thermoelectric materials, exploiting the beneficial effects of secondary phases, and reviewed the principal mechanisms explaining the enhanced conversion efficiency in these materials. This includes energy filtering, modulation doping, phonon scattering, and magnetic effects. This work assists researchers to design new high-performance thermoelectric materials by providing common concepts.
Structural Design Method for Constructions: Simulation, Manufacturing and Experiment
Authors: Bolshakov Pavel , Kharin Nikita , Kashapov Ramil , Sachenkov Oskar
Published: October 2021

The development of additive manufacturing technology leads to new concepts for design implants and prostheses. The necessity of such approaches is fueled by patient-oriented medicine. Such a concept involves a new way of understanding material and includes complex structural geometry, lattice constructions, and metamaterials. This leads to new design concepts. In the article, the structural design method is presented. The general approach is based on the separation of the micro- and macro-mechanical parameters. For this purpose, the investigated region as a complex of the basic cells was considered. Each basic cell can be described by a parameters vector. An initializing vector was introduced to control the changes in the parameters vector. Changing the parameters vector according to the stress-strain state and the initializing vector leads to changes in the basic cells and consequently to changes in the microarchitecture. A medium with a spheroidal pore was considered as a basic cell. Porosity and ellipticity were used for the parameters vector. The initializing vector was initialized and depended on maximum von Mises stress. A sample was designed according to the proposed method. Then, solid and structurally designed samples were produced by additive manufacturing technology. The samples were scanned by computer tomography and then tested by structural loads. The results and analyses were presented.
Porous Ultrahigh Molecular Weight Polyethylene/Functionalized Activated Nanocarbon Composites with Improved Biocompatibility
Authors: Fan Wangxi , Fu Xiuqin , Li Zefang , Ou Junfei , Yang Zhou , Xiang Meng , Qin Zhongli
Published: October 2021

Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) materials have been prevalent joint replacement materials for more than 45 years because of their excellent biocompatibility and wear resistance. In this study, functionalized activated nanocarbon (FANC) was prepared by grafting maleic anhydride polyethylene onto acid-treated activated nanocarbon. A novel porous UHMWPE composite was prepared by incorporating the appropriate amount of FANC and pore-forming agents during the hot-pressing process for medical UHMWPE powder. The experimental results showed that the best prepared porous UHMWPE/FANC exhibited appropriate tensile strength, porosity, and excellent hydrophilicity, with a contact angle of 65.9°. In vitro experiments showed that the porous UHMWPE/FANC had excellent biocompatibility, which is due to its porous structure and hydrophilicity caused by FANC. This study demonstrates the potential viability for our porous UHMWPE/FANC to be used as cartilage replacement material for biomedical applications.
Laser Surface Modification of Powder Metallurgy-Processed Ti-Graphite Composite Which Can Enhance Cells’ Osteo-Differentiation
Authors: Šugár Peter , Ludrovcová Barbora , Kalbáčová Marie Hubálek , Šugárová Jana , Sahul Martin , Kováčik Jaroslav
Published: October 2021

The paper examines the surface functionalization of a new type of Ti-graphite composite, a dental biomaterial prepared by vacuum low-temperature extrusion of hydrogenated-dehydrogenated titanium powder mixed with graphite flakes. Two experimental surfaces were prepared by laser micromachining applying different levels of incident energy of the fiber nanosecond laser working at 1064 nm wavelength. The surface integrity of the machined surfaces was evaluated, including surface roughness parameters measurement by contact profilometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The chemical and phase composition were comprehensively evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses. Finally, the in vitro tests using human mesenchymal stem cells were conducted to compare the influence of the laser processing parameters used on the cell’s cultivation and osteo-differentiation. The bioactivity results confirmed that the surface profile with positive kurtosis, platykurtic distribution curve and higher value of peaks spacing exhibited better bioactivity compared to the surface profile with negative kurtosis coefficient, leptokurtic distribution curve and lower peaks spacing.
Numerical Study on the Effect of Pre-Strain on Detwinning in Rolled Mg Alloy AZ31
Authors: Ma Chao , Duan Xing , Guo Xiaoqian , Qiao Hua , Zhang Lianying , Wu Peidong
Published: October 2021

The deformation behavior of rolled Mg alloy AZ31, previously compressed along the rolling direction (RD), was numerically investigated under reverse tension. The EVPSC-TDT model was employed to study the effect of pre-strain on detwinning for 3%, 6% and 9% pre-compressed materials along the RD. A new criterion was proposed to control the exhaustion of detwinning under reverse tension. Numerical results show good agreement with the corresponding experimental data. It was demonstrated that the proposed criteria can capture the key features associated with detwinning in pre-compressed materials. Regardless of the amount of pre-compression, detwinning is activated under reverse tension, leading to low yield stress and a typical s-shaped flow curve. The inflection point reflects the exhaustion of detwinning, which is delayed when increasing the amount of pre-compression.
Study of the Properties of Blended Cements Containing Various Types of Slag Cements and Limestone Powder
Authors: Gołaszewska Małgorzata , Giergiczny Zbigniew
Published: October 2021

It is currently vital to use more environmentally friendly cementitious composites, such as blended slag-limestone cements. However, many properties of slag-limestone cements are not yet fully research, especially in regards to the effect of limestone properties on properties of mortars and concrete. In the research, three types of slag cements were mixed with two types of limestone to obtain multi-component slag-limestone cements. Tests of rheological properties, heat of hydration, and compressive strength were conducted to ascertain the effect of limestone on the cement properties and to check the viability of this type of cement for engineering practice. It was found that the addition of up to 10% of limestone to slag cements did not have negative effects on tested properties; however, the exact influence of limestone was dependent on limestone particle size distribution. Increasing the amount of limestone in limestone-slag cements to 15% significantly decreased the compressive strength of the mortars and decreased hydration heat but had no significant effect on rheological properties.
An Experimental Study on Processing TC4 with Nano Particle Surfactant Mixed Micro EDM
Authors: Ni Tingting , Liu Qingyu , Chen Zhiheng , Jiang Dongsheng , Sun Shufeng
Published: October 2021

Micro electrical discharge machining (micro EDM) is able to remove conductive material by non-contact instantaneous high temperature, which is more suitable for machining titanium and its alloys compared with traditional machining methods. To further improve the machining efficiency and machined surface quality of micro EDM, the nano particle surfactant mixed micro EDM method is put forward in this paper. Experiments were conducted to explore the effect of nano particle surfactant on the micro EDM performance of titanium alloy. The results show that the material removal rate of micro EDM in dielectric mixed with TiO2 is the highest when open-circuit voltage is 100 V, followed by Al2O3 and ZrO2. Lower tool wear rate can be produced by using dielectric mixed with nano particle surfactant. The taper ratio of micro EDM in dielectric mixed with nano particle surfactant is higher than that in deionized water. The surface roughness Ra of micro EDM in dielectric mixed with TiO2 can be 50% lower than that in deionized water. It is helpful to improve the machining performance by adding surface surfactant in the dielectric of micro EDM.
The Effects of Various Conditions of Short-Term Rejuvenation Heat Treatment on Room-Temperature Mechanical Properties of Thermally Aged P92 Boiler Steel
Authors: Falat Ladislav , Čiripová Lucia , Homolová Viera , Džupon Miroslav , Džunda Róbert , Kovaľ Karol
Published: October 2021

In this work, the effects of various conditions of short-term rejuvenation heat treatment on room-temperature mechanical properties of long-term aged P92 boiler steel were investigated. Normalized and tempered P92 steel pipe was thermally exposed at 600 °C for time durations up to 5000 h in order to simulate high-temperature material degradation, as also occurring in service conditions. Thus, thermally embrittled material states of P92 steel were prepared, showing tempered martensitic microstructures with coarsened secondary phase precipitates of Cr23C6-based carbides and Fe2W-based Laves phase. Compared with the initial normalized and tempered material condition, thermally aged materials exhibited a slight decrease in strength properties (i.e., yield stress and ultimate tensile strength) and deformation properties (i.e., total elongation and reduction of area). The hardness values were almost unaffected, whereas the impact toughness values showed a steep decrease after long-term ageing. An idea for designing the rejuvenation heat treatments for restoration of impact toughness was based on tuning the material properties by short-term annealing effects at various selected temperatures somewhat above the long-term ageing temperature of P92 material. Specifically, the proposed heat treatments were performed within the temperature range between 680 °C and 740 °C, employing variable heating up and cooling down conditions. It was revealed that short-term annealing at 740 °C for 1 h with subsequent rapid cooling into water represents the most efficient rejuvenation heat treatment procedure of thermally aged P92 steel for full restoration of impact toughness up to original values of normalized and tempered material state. Microstructural observations clearly indicated partial dissolution of the Laves phase precipitates to be the crucial phenomenon that played a key role in restoring the impact toughness.
Bearing Performance Degradation Assessment Based on SC-RMI and Student’s t-HMM
Authors: Jiang Huiming , Luo Jinhai , Zhou Bohua , Li Chao , Lv Zhongwei , Yang Zhibo , Chen Jin
Published: October 2021

Bearing performance degradation assessment (PDA), as an important part of prognostics and health management (PHM), is significant to prevent major accidents and economic losses in industry. For the data-driven PDA, the extraction and selection of features is quite important. To better integrate the degradation information, the bearing performance degradation assessment based on SC-RMI and Student’s t-HMM is proposed in this article. Firstly, spectral clustering was used as a preprocessing step to cluster features with similar degradation curves. Then, rank mutual information, which is more suitable for trendability estimation of long time series, was utilized to select the optimal feature from each cluster. The feature selection method based on these two steps is called SC-RMI for short. With the selected features, Student’s t-HMM, which is more robust to outliers, was utilized for performance degradation modeling and assessment. The verifications based on an accelerated life test and the public XJTU-SY dataset showed the superiority of the proposed method.
Assessment of Disinfection Potential of Q-Switch Nd: YAG Laser on Contaminated Titanium Implant Surfaces
Authors: Namour Melanie , El Mobadder Marwan , Mulongo Baudouin , Fagnart Olivier , Harb Assaf , Peremans André , Verspecht Tim , Teughels Wim , Nammour Samir , Rompen Eric
Published: October 2021

Peri-implantitis (PI) is a relatively frequent pathology that compromises the overall survival of the dental implant. Adjunctive approaches for the conventional mechanical debridement are being suggested to optimize the treatment of PI. The goal of the study was the assessment of the disinfection potential of the Q-Switch Nd: YAG laser on contaminated titanium implant surfaces. A total of 72 sterile titanium discs were used and divided into three groups: 24 contaminated titanium discs treated with the laser (study Group L), 24 contaminated titanium discs with no treatment (control 1—Group C), and 24 sterile titanium discs with no treatment (control 2—Group S). Multi-species biofilm was used: Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, and Prevotella intermedia. Commensal bacteria were included also: Actinomyces naeslundii, Actinomyces viscosus, Streptococcus cristatus, Streptococcus gordonii, Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus sanguinis, Streptococcus parasanguinis, and Veillonella parvula. Parameters delivered per pulse on the targeted surfaces of the titanium discs were an energy density of 0.597 J/cm2 each pulse, a pulse power of 270 mW, a laser beam spot of 2.4 mm in diameter, and a rate of repetition of 10 Hertz (Hz) for a pulse duration of 6 nanoseconds (ns). The mode was no contact, and a distance of 500 micrometers was used with a total time of irradiation equal to 2 s (s). The collection of microbiological samples was made for all groups; colony-forming units (CFU) were identified by two different practitioners, and the average of their examinations was considered for each sample. The average of the TBC (CFU/mL) was calculated for each group. Values were 0.000 CFU/mL, 4767 CFU/mL, and 0.000 CFU/mL for Group L, Group C, and Group S, respectively. Therefore, the suggested treatment protocol was able to provoke a total disinfection of the contaminated titanium surfaces. A statistical difference was only found between Group L vs. Group C and between Group S vs. Group C. The difference was not significant between Group S and Group L. In conclusion, the present study confirmed that the Q-Switch Nd: YAG laser under our specific conditions can provide a total disinfection of the contaminated titanium surfaces.
Cement-Treated Volcanic Scoria for Low-Traffic Road Pavements in the Azores Archipelago
Authors: Crucho João , Picado-Santos Luís , Silva Filipe
Published: October 2021

The Azoreans rely on an extensive network of rural roads for the most of the rural population’s activities (primary sector) and accessibility. To rehabilitate and maintain this network, asphalt concrete and crushed rock aggregate are usually used. However, in the region, the application of such paving technology can be extremely costly. It requires specialized contractors, dedicated equipment and raw materials that must be imported to most of the islands. Therefore, the use of locally available materials would result in more flexibility and fewer costs for planned interventions. In the Azores, known as bagacina, the volcanic scoria is a pyroclastic material, generally highly abundant in volcanic islands. This natural aggregate is inexpensive, easy to extract, and presents good geotechnical characteristics. However, due to its porous nature, it generally does not comply with the current specifications for pavement materials. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate cement-treated volcanic scoria to be used as low-traffic road pavement layers. The geotechnical properties and mechanical performance of the two types of scoriae were analyzed. As a result, both types of scoriae presented good behavior, according to the expected for a cement-treated material, and proved to be a suitable alternative for road pavements in the Azores Archipelago.
A Multiphysics Peridynamic Model for Simulation of Fracture in Si Thin Films during Lithiation/Delithiation Cycles
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Tong Qi
Published: October 2021

Material failure is the main obstacle in fulfilling the potential of electrodes in lithium batteries. To date, different failure phenomena observed experimentally in various structures have become challenging to model in numerical simulations. Moreover, their mechanisms are not well understood. To fill the gap, here we develop a coupled chemo-mechanical model based on peridynamics, a particle method that is suitable for simulating spontaneous crack growth, to solve the fracture problems in silicon thin films due to lithiation/delithiation. The model solves mechanical and lithium diffusion problems, respectively, and uses a coupling technique to deal with the interaction between them. The numerical examples of different types of Si films show the advantage of the model in this category and well reproduce the fracture patterns observed in the experiments, demonstrating that it is a promising tool in simulating material failure in electrodes.
Analysis of the Morphology and Structure of Carbon Deposit Formed on the Surface of Ni3Al Foils as a Result of Thermocatalytic Decomposition of Ethanol
Authors: Jóźwik Pawel , Baran Agata , Płociński Tomasz , Dziedzic Daniel , Nawała Jakub , Liszewska Malwina , Zasada Dariusz , Bojar Zbigniew
Published: October 2021

This article presents the results of investigations of the morphology and structure of carbon deposit formed as a result of ethanol decomposition at 500 °C, 600 °C, and 700 °C without water vapour and with water vapour (0.35 and 1.1% by volume). scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) observations as well as energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopic analyses allowed for a comprehensive characterization of the morphology and structure of cylindrical carbon nanostructures present on the surface of the Ni3Al catalyst. Depending on the reaction mixture composition (i.e., water vapour content) and decomposition temperature, various carbon nanotubes/carbon nanofibres (CNTs/CNFs) were observed: multiwalled carbon nanotubes, herringbone-type multiwall carbon nanotubes, cylindrical carbon nanofibers, platelet carbon nanofibers, and helical carbon nanotubes/nanofibres. The discussed carbon nanostructures exhibited nickel nanoparticles at the ends and in the middle part of the carbon nanostructures as catalytically active centres for efficient ethanol decomposition.
Transparent Fiber-Reinforced Composites Based on a Thermoset Resin Using Liquid Composite Molding (LCM) Techniques
Authors: Caydamli Yavuz , Heudorfer Klaus , Take Jens , Podjaski Filip , Middendorf Peter , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: October 2021

In this study, optically transparent glass fiber-reinforced polymers (tGFRPs) were produced using a thermoset matrix and an E-glass fabric. In situ polymerization was combined with liquid composite molding (LCM) techniques both in a resin transfer molding (RTM) mold and a lite-RTM (L-RTM) setup between two glass plates. The RTM specimens were used for mechanical characterization while the L-RTM samples were used for transmittance measurements. Optimization in terms of the number of glass fabric layers, the overall degree of transparency of the composite, and the mechanical properties was carried out and allowed for the realization of high mechanical strength and high-transparency tGFRPs. An outstanding degree of infiltration was achieved maintaining up to 75% transmittance even when using 29 layers of E-glass fabric, corresponding to 50 v.% fiber, using an L-RTM setup. RTM specimens with 44 v.% fiber yielded a tensile strength of 435.2 ± 17.6 MPa, and an E-Modulus of 24.3 ± 0.7 GPa.
The Effect of Steel and Basalt Fibers on the Shear Behavior of Double-Span Fiber Reinforced Concrete Beams
Authors: Krassowska Julita , Kosior-Kazberuk Marta
Published: October 2021

This study investigates the effects of adding different types of fibers to concrete mixes on the shear behavior of double-span fiber-reinforced concrete beams with or without shear reinforcement. As a part of the experimental study, a total of twenty-seven natural-scale double-span beams were tested. The beams, made of concrete with steel or basalt fiber, with fiber dosages of 78.5 and 5 kg/m3, were tested under shear force. The three tested series consisted of three beams with dimensions of 120 × 300 × 4150 mm, with various numbers of stirrups and contents of fiber reinforcement. During the tests, the shear capacity of the elements was determined. The values of support reactions, deflection in the middle of the span of both beam spans, deformations on the surface of the concrete member in the middle of the span in the compressive and tensile zone, and cracking (crack development and crack width) were also measured. The beams were tested using a digital image correlation (DIC) technique. Test results show that shear capacity increases in beams made of concrete with steel (1.87) or basalt fibers (1.23). Moreover, the failure mode changes from shear (brittle) to flexure-shear (less brittle). The experimental shear capacity of beams was compared with the theoretical values predicted by different design codes, i.e., fib Model Code 2010 and RILEM TC 162-TDF 2003. The results show that all the design codes underestimate the contribution of fiber-reinforced concrete beams to shear resistance and greatly overestimate the contribution of shear reinforcement.
Microalgae as Sustainable Biofactories to Produce High-Value Lipids: Biodiversity, Exploitation, and Biotechnological Applications
Authors: Fernandes Tomásia , Cordeiro Nereida
Published: October 2021

Microalgae are often called “sustainable biofactories” due to their dual potential to mitigate atmospheric carbon dioxide and produce a great diversity of high-value compounds. Nevertheless, the successful exploitation of microalgae as biofactories for industrial scale is dependent on choosing the right microalga and optimum growth conditions. Due to the rich biodiversity of microalgae, a screening pipeline should be developed to perform microalgal strain selection exploring their growth, robustness, and metabolite production. Current prospects in microalgal biotechnology are turning their focus to high-value lipids for pharmaceutic, nutraceutic, and cosmetic products. Within microalgal lipid fraction, polyunsaturated fatty acids and carotenoids are broadly recognized for their vital functions in human organisms. Microalgal-derived phytosterols are still an underexploited lipid resource despite presenting promising biological activities, including neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, neuromodulatory, immunomodulatory, and apoptosis inductive effects. To modulate microalgal biochemical composition, according to the intended field of application, it is important to know the contribution of each cultivation factor, or their combined effects, for the wanted product accumulation. Microalgae have a vital role to play in future low-carbon economy. Since microalgal biodiesel is still costly, it is desirable to explore the potential of oleaginous species for its high-value lipids which present great global market prospects.
Saliniquinone Derivatives, Saliniquinones G−I and Heraclemycin E, from the Marine Animal-Derived Nocardiopsis aegyptia HDN19-252
Authors: Zhou Luning , Chen Xuedong , Sun Chunxiao , Chang Yimin , Huang Xiaofei , Zhu Tianjiao , Zhang Guojian , Che Qian , Li Dehai
Published: October 2021

Four new anthraquinone derivatives, namely saliniquinones G−I (1–3) and heraclemycin E (4), were obtained from the Antarctic marine-derived actinomycete Nocardiopsis aegyptia HDN19-252, guided by the Global Natural Products Social (GNPS) molecular networking platform. Their structures, including absolute configurations, were elucidated by extensive NMR, MS, and ECD analyses. Compounds 1 and 2 showed promising inhibitory activity against six tested bacterial strains, including methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci (MRCNS), with MIC values ranging from 3.1 to 12.5 μM.
Cannabis Dopaminergic Effects Induce Hallucinations in a Patient with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Pizzolato Katie , Thacker David , Toro-Pagán Nicole Del , Hanna Abeer , Turgeon Jacques , Matos Adriana , Amin Nishita , Michaud Veronique
Published: October 2021

Cannabis products that contain the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cannabinoid are emerging as promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of medical conditions such as chronic pain. THC elicits psychoactive effects through modulation of dopaminergic neurons, thereby altering levels of dopamine in the brain. This case report highlights the complexity associated with medicinal cannabis and the health risks associated with its use. A 57-year-old male with Parkinson’s disease was experiencing worsening tremors and vivid hallucinations despite therapy optimization attempts. It was discovered that the patient took cannabis for chronic back pain, and a pharmacogenomics (PGx) test indicated the presence of variants for the COMT and HTR2A genes. These variants could increase dopamine levels and predispose patients to visual hallucinations. Once the cannabis was discontinued, the patient’s hallucinations began to slowly dissipate. Cannabis use continues to expand as it gains more acceptance legally and medicinally, but cannabis can affect the response to drugs. This patient case suggests that cannabis use in combination with dopamine-promoting drugs, especially in a patient with genetic variants, can increase the risk for vivid hallucinations. These conditions support the importance of considering herb–drug interactions and PGx data when performing a medication safety review.
Transparent and Flexible Vibration Sensor Based on a Wheel-Shaped Hybrid Thin Membrane
Authors: Lee Siyoung , Lee Eun , Lee Eunho , Bae Geun
Published: October 2021

With the advent of human–machine interaction and the Internet of Things, wearable and flexible vibration sensors have been developed to detect human voices and surrounding vibrations transmitted to humans. However, previous wearable vibration sensors have limitations in the sensing performance, such as frequency response, linearity of sensitivity, and esthetics. In this study, a transparent and flexible vibration sensor was developed by incorporating organic/inorganic hybrid materials into ultrathin membranes. The sensor exhibited a linear and high sensitivity (20 mV/g) and a flat frequency response (80–3000 Hz), which are attributed to the wheel-shaped capacitive diaphragm structure fabricated by exploiting the high processability and low stiffness of the organic material SU-8 and the high conductivity of the inorganic material ITO. The sensor also has sufficient esthetics as a wearable device because of the high transparency of SU-8 and ITO. In addition, the temperature of the post-annealing process after ITO sputtering was optimized for the high transparency and conductivity. The fabricated sensor showed significant potential for use in transparent healthcare devices to monitor the vibrations transmitted from hand-held vibration tools and in a skin-attachable vocal sensor.
Configurable 3D Printed Microfluidic Multiport Valves with Axial Compression
Authors: Diehm Juliane , Hackert Verena , Franzreb Matthias
Published: October 2021

In the last decade, the fabrication of microfluidic chips was revolutionized by 3D printing. It is not only used for rapid prototyping of molds, but also for manufacturing of complex chips and even integrated active parts like pumps and valves, which are essential for many microfluidic applications. The manufacturing of multiport injection valves is of special interest for analytical microfluidic systems, as they can reduce the injection to detection dead volume and thus enhance the resolution and decrease the detection limit. Designs reported so far use radial compression of rotor and stator. However, commercially available nonprinted valves usually feature axial compression, as this allows for adjustable compression and the possibility to integrate additional sealing elements. In this paper, we transfer the axial approach to 3D-printed valves and compare two different printing techniques, as well as six different sealing configurations. The tightness of the system is evaluated with optical examination, weighing, and flow measurements. The developed system shows similar performance to commercial or other 3D-printed valves with no measurable leakage for the static case and leakages below 0.5% in the dynamic case, can be turned automatically with a stepper motor, is easy to scale up, and is transferable to other printing methods and materials without design changes.
Soft-Microstructured Transparent Electrodes for Photonic-Enhanced Flexible Solar Cells
Authors: Boane Jenny L. N. , Centeno Pedro , Mouquinho Ana , Alexandre Miguel , Calmeiro Tomás , Fortunato Elvira , Martins Rodrigo , Mendes Manuel J. , Águas Hugo
Published: October 2021

Microstructured transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) have shown great potential as photonic electrodes in photovoltaic (PV) applications, providing both optical and electrical improvements in the solar cells’ performance due to: (1) strong light trapping effects that enhance broadband light absorption in PV material and (2) the reduced sheet resistance of the front illuminated contact. This work developed a method for the fabrication and optimization of wavelength-sized indium zinc oxide (IZO) microstructures, which were soft-patterned on flexible indium tin oxide (ITO)-coated poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrates via a simple, low-cost, versatile, and highly scalable colloidal lithography process. Using this method, the ITO-coated PET substrates patterned with IZO micro-meshes provided improved transparent electrodes endowed with strong light interaction effects—namely, a pronounced light scattering performance (diffuse transmittance up to ~50%). In addition, the photonic-structured IZO mesh allowed a higher volume of TCO material in the electrode while maintaining the desired transparency, which led to a sheet resistance reduction (by ~30%), thereby providing further electrical benefits due to the improvement of the contact conductance. The results reported herein pave the way for a new class of photonic transparent electrodes endowed with mechanical flexibility that offer strong potential not only as advanced front contacts for thin-film bendable solar cells but also for a much broader range of optoelectronic applications.
A Neoglycoprotein-Immobilized Fluorescent Magnetic Bead Suspension Multiplex Array for Galectin-Binding Studies
Authors: Zhang Libo , Yu Hai , Bai Yuanyuan , Mishra Bijoyananda , Yang Xiaoxiao , Wang Jing , Yu Evan B. , Li Riyao , Chen Xi
Published: October 2021

Carbohydrate-protein conjugates have diverse applications. They have been used clinically as vaccines against bacterial infection and have been developed for high-throughput assays to elucidate the ligand specificities of glycan-binding proteins (GBPs) and antibodies. Here, we report an effective process that combines highly efficient chemoenzymatic synthesis of carbohydrates, production of carbohydrate-bovine serum albumin (glycan-BSA) conjugates using a squarate linker, and convenient immobilization of the resulting neoglycoproteins on carboxylate-coated fluorescent magnetic beads for the development of a suspension multiplex array platform. A glycan-BSA-bead array containing BSA and 50 glycan-BSA conjugates with tuned glycan valency was generated. The binding profiles of six plant lectins with binding preference towards Gal and/or GalNAc, as well as human galectin-3 and galectin-8, were readily obtained. Our results provide useful information to understand the multivalent glycan-binding properties of human galectins. The neoglycoprotein-immobilized fluorescent magnetic bead suspension multiplex array is a robust and flexible platform for rapid analysis of glycan and GBP interactions and will find broad applications.
Studies towards the Design and Synthesis of Novel 1,5-Diaryl-1H-imidazole-4-carboxylic Acids and 1,5-Diaryl-1H-imidazole-4-carbohydrazides as Host LEDGF/p75 and HIV-1 Integrase Interaction Inhibitors
Authors: Rashamuse Thompho J. , Fish Muhammad Q. , Coyanis E. Mabel , Bode Moira L.
Published: October 2021

Two targeted sets of novel 1,5-diaryl-1H-imidazole-4-carboxylic acids 10 and carbohydrazides 11 were designed and synthesized from their corresponding ester intermediates 17, which were prepared via cycloaddition of ethyl isocyanoacetate 16 and diarylimidoyl chlorides 15. Evaluation of these new target scaffolds in the AlphaScreenTM HIV-1 IN-LEDGF/p75 inhibition assay identified seventeen compounds exceeding the pre-defined 50% inhibitory threshold at 100 µM concentration. Further evaluation of these compounds in the HIV-1 IN strand transfer assay at 100 μM showed that none of the compounds (with the exception of 10a, 10l, and 11k, with marginal inhibitory percentages) were actively bound to the active site, indicating that they are selectively binding to the LEDGF/p75-binding pocket. In a cell-based HIV-1 antiviral assay, compounds 11a, 11b, 11g, and 11h exhibited moderate antiviral percentage inhibition of 33–45% with cytotoxicity (CC50) values of >200 µM, 158.4 µM, >200 µM, and 50.4 µM, respectively. The antiviral inhibitory activity displayed by 11h was attributed to its toxicity. Upon further validation of their ability to induce multimerization in a Western blot gel assay, compounds 11a, 11b, and 11h appeared to increase higher-order forms of IN.