bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation into Pump Mode Flow Dynamics for a Mixed Flow PAT with Adjustable Runner Blades
Authors: Binama Maxime , Kan Kan , Chen Huixiang , Zheng Yuan , Zhou Daqing , Muhirwa Alexis , Bwimba Godfrey M.
Published: May 2021

The adoption of pumps as turbines (PATs) in both small-scale hydroelectric plants and water supply systems has brought about various advantages, the most recognized being cost-effectiveness compared to other hydroturbines. However, due to their lack of flow control ability, their intolerance to off-design operations constitutes a tough shortfall. Moreover, since this technology is new, PAT flow dynamics are not yet well understood. Therefore, this study intends to numerically investigate the mixed-flow PAT’s pump mode flow dynamics for five operating conditions from optimum (1 QBEP) to deep part-load (0.41 QBEP) conditions. Moreover, the effect of runner blade angle on them is investigated, considering three angles, namely −2°, 0°, and 2°. PAT flow stability was found to deteriorate as the flow decreased, where associated pressure pulsation level worsened at different flow zones. In addition, the blade angle increase led to correspondingly increasing flow unsteadiness and pressure pulsation levels, where the pulsation frequencies from rotor-stator interactions were dominant for most flow zones. This study’s findings are of crucial importance to both scientific and engineering communities as they contribute to a thorough understanding of PAT flow dynamics.
A Quantitative Risk-Averse Model for Optimal Management of Multi-Source Standalone Microgrid with Demand Response and Pumped Hydro Storage
Authors: Zhao Yongqi , Chen Jiajia
Published: May 2021

High renewable energy integrated standalone microgrid requires greater ramping capabilities from other dispatchable resources to compensate for effects of the intermittent and variability of the renewable energy available in the system. To address this, a wind-solar-thermal-hydro-coupled multi-source standalone microgrid (WSTHcMSSM) considering demand response and pumped hydro storage is proposed to maximize the operating profit and get the optimal solution of the multi-source generation system by taking advantage of multi-resource complementarity. In WSTHcMSSM, we present a conditional value-at-credibility (CVaC)-based quantitative risk-averse model for uncertain wind and solar power by thoroughly examining the randomness and fuzziness characteristics. Additionally, the most severe issues caused by wind and solar power fluctuation happen during the peak load, and this paper proposes a load partitioning method to get the time-of-use (TOU) in demand response for peak load shaving. A case study is conducted for the validation of the proposed method. It is found from the study case that the CVaC can well evaluate the uncertainty in WSTHcMSSM with wind and solar integration. Additionally, the WSTHcMSSM can efficiently explore the potential flexibility in multi-source complementarity for promoting the penetration of renewable energy.
Firing up Cold Tumors—Targeting the Epigenetic Machinery to Enhance Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Lin Guan-Ling , Tsai Leah H. J. , Kuppen Peter J. K. , Chan Michael W. Y.
Published: May 2021

Cancer immunotherapy using monoclonal antibodies targeting immune checkpoint proteins, such as PD-L1 or PD-1 (i [...]
Hydrodynamics of Collapsing Glass Tubes and Measuring of Glass Viscosities: Analytic Results beyond Asymptotic Approaches for Rapidly Varying Viscosities
Authors: Klupsch Thomas
Published: May 2021

We present novel analytic solutions of the axial-symmetric boundary value problem of the Stokes equation for incompressible liquids with rapidly varying viscosity, which cover the hydrodynamics of collapsing glass tubes with moving torch. We meet requirements to optimize the contactless measuring of dynamical viscosities and surface tensions of molten glasses through collapsing for tools working with sharply peaked axial temperature courses. We study model solutions for axial courses of the reciprocal viscosity specified as Gaussians extended on small distances compared to the outer tube radius, and we neglect the boundary inclination, corresponding to measuring conditions for large torch velocities. The surface tension is assumed to be constant across the collapsing zone. The boundary value problem becomes disentangled, changing to a gradually independent hierarchy of streaming function, vorticity, and pressure. Axial Fourier transforms are introduced to focus on solutions for infinitely extended tubes. Beyond the predictions of the asymptotic collapsing theory, a successively increasing steepness of the reciprocal viscosity induces an increasing radial pressure gradient that acts against the surface tension and diminishes the collapsing efficiency. The arising systematic error in evaluating the viscosity from experimental data in virtue of the asymptotic collapsing theory is corrected. Error estimations regarding deviations from the specified viscosity course, the neglected boundary inclination, and heat conduction within the tube wall are outlined, and preconditions to simplify the measuring of surface tensions through collapsing are discussed.
PGRP-LB: An Inside View into the Mechanism of the Amidase Reaction
Authors: Orlans Julien , Vincent-Monegat Carole , Rahioui Isabelle , Sivignon Catherine , Butryn Agata , Soulère Laurent , Zaidman-Remy Anna , Orville Allen M. , Heddi Abdelaziz , Aller Pierre , Da Silva Pedro
Published: May 2021

Peptidoglycan recognition proteins (PGRPs) are ubiquitous among animals and play pivotal functions in insect immunity. Non-catalytic PGRPs are involved in the activation of immune pathways by binding to the peptidoglycan (PGN), whereas amidase PGRPs are capable of cleaving the PGN into non-immunogenic compounds. Drosophila PGRP-LB belongs to the amidase PGRPs and downregulates the immune deficiency (IMD) pathway by cleaving meso-2,6-diaminopimelic (meso-DAP or DAP)-type PGN. While the recognition process is well analyzed for the non-catalytic PGRPs, little is known about the enzymatic mechanism for the amidase PGRPs, despite their essential function in immune homeostasis. Here, we analyzed the specific activity of different isoforms of Drosophila PGRP-LB towards various PGN substrates to understand their specificity and role in Drosophila immunity. We show that these isoforms have similar activity towards the different compounds. To analyze the mechanism of the amidase activity, we performed site directed mutagenesis and solved the X-ray structures of wild-type Drosophila PGRP-LB and its mutants, with one of these structures presenting a protein complexed with the tracheal cytotoxin (TCT), a muropeptide derived from the PGN. Only the Y78F mutation abolished the PGN cleavage while other mutations reduced the activity solely. Together, our findings suggest the dynamic role of the residue Y78 in the amidase mechanism by nucleophilic attack through a water molecule to the carbonyl group of the amide function destabilized by Zn2+.
Mesenchymal and Proneural Subtypes of Glioblastoma Disclose Branching Based on GSC Associated Signature
Authors: Steponaitis Giedrius , Tamasauskas Arimantas
Published: May 2021

Glioblastomas (GBM)—the most common, therapy-resistant, and lethal tumors driven by populations of glioma stem cells (GSCs) are still on the list of the most complicated pathologies. Thus, deeper understanding and characterization of GSCs is indispensable to find suitable targets and develop more effective therapies. In the present study, we applied native glioblastoma cells and GSCs sequencing, screened for GSC-specific targets and checked if the signature is related to GBM patient pathological, clinical data as well as molecular subtypes applying TCGA cohort. Data analysis revealed that tumors of proneural and mesenchymal subtypes are branching in separate clusters based on screened gene expression. Samples of the same subtype revealed significantly different patient survival prognosis as well as recurrence chance between the clusters. Recently, different subpopulations of mesenchymal GSC demonstrating different properties were shown, which indicates possible internal heterogeneity of GBM subtypes as well. Current findings also revealed branching of molecular GBM subtypes that were significantly linked to patient outcome and that might be decided by distinct GSC subpopulations.
Chronic Inflammatory Status Observed in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Induces Modulation of Cytochrome P450 Expression and Activity
Authors: Darakjian Lucy , Deodhar Malavika , Turgeon Jacques , Michaud Veronique
Published: May 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease that causes a hyperglycemic status which leads, over time, to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves. The most frequent form of diabetes is type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) which is often part of a metabolic syndrome (hyperglycaemia, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, abdominal obesity) that usually requires the use of several medications from different drug classes to bring each of these conditions under control. T2DM is associated with an increase in inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and the tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Higher levels of IL-6 and TNF-α are associated with a downregulation of several drug metabolizing enzymes, especially the cytochrome P450 (P450) isoforms CYP3As and CYP2C19. A decrease in these P450 isoenzymes may lead to unexpected rise in plasma levels of substrates of these enzymes. It could also give rise to a mismatch between the genotypes determined for these enzymes, the predicted phenotypes based on these genotypes and the phenotypes observed clinically. This phenomenon is described as phenoconversion. Phenoconversion typically results from either a disease (such as T2DM) or concomitant administration of medications inducing or inhibiting (including competitive or non-competitive inhibition) a P450 isoenzyme used by other substrates for their elimination. Phenoconversion could have a significant impact on drug effects and genotypic-focused clinical outcomes. As the aging population is exposed to polypharmacy along with inflammatory comorbidities, consideration of phenoconversion related to drug metabolizing enzymes is of importance when applying pharmacogenomic results and establishing personalized and more precise drug regimens.
miR-200c-3p Regulates Epitelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Epicardial Mesothelial Cells by Targeting Epicardial Follistatin-Related Protein 1
Authors: Pontemezzo Elena , Foglio Eleonora , Vernucci Enza , Magenta Alessandra , D’Agostino Marco , Sileno Sara , Astanina Elena , Bussolino Federico , Pellegrini Laura , Germani Antonia , Russo Matteo Antonio , Limana Federica
Published: May 2021

Recent findings suggest that epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), a key step during heart development, is involved in cardiac tissue repair following myocardial infarction (MI). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as key regulators in EMT processes; however, the mechanisms by which miRNAs target epicardial EMT remain largely unknown. Here, by using an in vitro model of epicardial EMT, we investigated the role of miRNAs as regulators of this process and their potential targets. EMT was induced in murine epicardial-mesothelial cells (EMCs) through TGF β1 treatment for 48, 72, and 96 h as indicated by the expression of EMT-related genes by qRT-PCR, WB, and immunofluorescence. Further, enhanced expression of stemness genes was also detected. Among several EMT-related miRNAs, miR-200c-3p expression resulted as the most strongly suppressed. Interestingly, we also found a significant upregulation of Follistatin-related protein 1 (FSTL1), a miR-200c predicted target already identified as a potent cardiogenic factor produced by epicardial cells that promotes regeneration following MI. Dual-luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that miR-200c-3p directly targeted the 3′-untranslated region of FSTL1 in EMCs. Consistently, WB analysis showed that knockdown of miR-200c-3p significantly increased FSTL1 expression, whereas overexpression of miR-200c-3p counteracted TGF β1-mediated FSTL1 upregulation. Importantly, FSTL1 silencing maintained epithelial features in EMCs, despite EMT induction by TGF β1, and attenuated EMT-associated traits, including migration and stemness. In conclusion, epicardial FSTL1, an important cardiogenic factor in its secreted form, induces EMT, stemness, and migration of EMCs in a miR-200c-3p dependent pathway.
The Endophytic Fungus Piriformospora indica Reprograms Banana to Cold Resistance
Authors: Li Dan , Bodjrenou David Mahoudjro , Zhang Shuting , Wang Bin , Pan Hong , Yeh Kai-Wun , Lai Zhongxiong , Cheng Chunzhen
Published: May 2021

Banana (Musa spp.), one of the most important fruits worldwide, is generally cold sensitive. In this study, by using the cold-sensitive banana variety Tianbaojiao (Musa acuminate) as the study material, we investigated the effects of Piriformospora indica on banana cold resistance. Seedlings with and without fungus colonization were subjected to 4 °C cold treatment. The changes in plant phenotypes, some physiological and biochemical parameters, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and the expression of eight cold-responsive genes in banana leaves before and after cold treatment were measured. Results demonstrated that P. indica colonization reduced the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) but increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) and the contents of soluble sugar (SS) and proline. Noteworthily, the CAT activity and SS content in the leaves of P. indica-colonized banana were significant (p < 0.05). After 24 h cold treatment, the decline in maximum photochemistry efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm), photochemical quenching coefficient (qP), efficient quantum yield [Y(II)], and photosynthetic electron transport rate (ETR) in the leaves of P. indica-colonized banana was found to be lower than in the non-inoculated controls (p < 0.05). Moreover, although the difference was not significant, P. indica colonization increased the photochemical conversion efficiency and electron transport rate and alleviated the damage to the photosynthetic reaction center of banana leaves under cold treatment to some extent. Additionally, the expression of the most cold-responsive genes in banana leaves was significantly induced by P. indica during cold stress (p < 0.05). It was concluded that P. indica confers banana with enhanced cold resistance by stimulating antioxidant capacity, SS accumulation, and the expression of cold-responsive genes in leaves. The results obtained from this study are helpful for understanding the P. indica-induced cold resistance in banana.
Inhibition of HSF1 and SAFB Granule Formation Enhances Apoptosis Induced by Heat Stress
Authors: Watanabe Kazunori , Ohtsuki Takashi
Published: May 2021

Stress resistance mechanisms include upregulation of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and formation of granules. Stress-induced granules are classified into stress granules and nuclear stress bodies (nSBs). The present study examined the involvement of nSB formation in thermal resistance. We used chemical compounds that inhibit heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1) and scaffold attachment factor B (SAFB) granule formation and determined their effect on granule formation and HSP expression in HeLa cells. We found that formation of HSF1 and SAFB granules was inhibited by 2,5-hexanediol. We also found that suppression of HSF1 and SAFB granule formation enhanced heat stress-induced apoptosis. In addition, the upregulation of HSP27 and HSP70 during heat stress recovery was suppressed by 2,5-hexanediol. Our results suggested that the formation of HSF1 and SAFB granules was likely to be involved in the upregulation of HSP27 and HSP70 during heat stress recovery. Thus, the formation of HSF1 and SAFB granules was involved in thermal resistance.
Psoriasis: From Pathogenesis to Pharmacological and Nano-Technological-Based Therapeutics
Authors: Petit Robert Gironés , Cano Amanda , Ortiz Alba , Espina Marta , Prat Josefina , Muñoz Montserrat , Severino Patrícia , Souto Eliana B. , García Maria L. , Pujol Montserrat , Sánchez-López Elena
Published: May 2021

Research in the pathogenesis of inflammatory skin diseases, such as skin dermatitis and psoriasis, has experienced some relevant breakthroughs in recent years. The understanding of age-related factors, gender, and genetic predisposition of these multifactorial diseases has been instrumental for the development of new pharmacological and technological treatment approaches. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanisms behind the pathological features of psoriasis, also addressing the currently available treatments and novel therapies that are under clinical trials. Innovative therapies developed over the last 10 years have been researched. In this area, advantages of nanotechnological approaches to provide an effective drug concentration in the disease site are highlighted, together with microneedles as innovative candidates for drug delivery systems in psoriasis and other inflammatory chronic skin diseases.
Effectors of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici Suppressing the Pathogenic-Associated Molecular Pattern-Triggered Immune Response Were Screened by Transient Expression of Wheat Protoplasts
Authors: Su Yongying , Chen Yanger , Chen Jing , Zhang Zijin , Guo Jinya , Cai Yi , Zhu Chaoyang , Li Zhongyuan , Zhang Huaiyu
Published: May 2021

Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) is an important pathogen of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) stripe rust, and the effector protein secreted by haustoria is a very important component involved in the pathogenic process. Although the candidate effector proteins secreted by Pst haustoria have been predicted to be abundant, few have been functionally validated. Our study confirmed that chitin and flg22 could be used as elicitors of the pathogenic-associated molecular pattern-triggered immune (PTI) reaction in wheat leaves and that TaPr-1-14 could be used as a marker gene to detect the PTI reaction. In addition, the experimental results were consistent in wheat protoplasts. A rapid and efficient method for screening and identifying the effector proteins of Pst was established by using the wheat protoplast transient expression system. Thirty-nine Pst haustorial effector genes were successfully cloned and screened for expression in the protoplast. We identified three haustorial effector proteins, PSEC2, PSEC17, and PSEC45, that may inhibit the response of wheat to PTI. These proteins are localized in the somatic cytoplasm and nucleus of wheat protoplasts and are highly expressed during the infection and parasitism of wheat.
Novel KCND3 Variant Underlying Nonprogressive Congenital Ataxia or SCA19/22 Disrupt KV4.3 Protein Expression and K+ Currents with Variable Effects on Channel Properties
Authors: Zanni Ginevra , Hsiao Cheng-Tsung , Fu Ssu-Ju , Tang Chih-Yung , Capuano Alessandro , Bosco Luca , Graziola Federica , Bellacchio Emanuele , Servidei Serenella , Primiano Guido , Soong Bing-Wen , Jeng Chung-Jiuan
Published: May 2021

KCND3 encodes the voltage-gated potassium channel KV4.3 that is highly expressed in the cerebellum, where it regulates dendritic excitability and calcium influx. Loss-of-function KV4.3 mutations have been associated with dominant spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA19/22). By targeted NGS sequencing, we identified two novel KCND3 missense variants of the KV4.3 channel: p.S347W identified in a patient with adult-onset pure cerebellar syndrome and p.W359G detected in a child with congenital nonprogressive ataxia. Neuroimaging showed mild cerebellar atrophy in both patients. We performed a two-electrode voltage-clamp recording of KV4.3 currents in Xenopus oocytes: both the p.G345V (previously reported in a SCA19/22 family) and p.S347W mutants exhibited reduced peak currents by 50%, while no K+ current was detectable for the p.W359G mutant. We assessed the effect of the mutations on channel gating by measuring steady-state voltage-dependent activation and inactivation properties: no significant alterations were detected in p.G345V and p.S347W disease-associated variants, compared to controls. KV4.3 expression studies in HEK293T cells showed 53% (p.G345V), 45% (p.S347W) and 75% (p.W359G) reductions in mutant protein levels compared with the wildtype. The present study broadens the spectrum of the known phenotypes and identifies additional variants for KCND3-related disorders, outlining the importance of SCA gene screening in early-onset and congenital ataxia.
Stress-Activated Protein Kinase Signalling Regulates Mycoparasitic Hyphal-Hyphal Interactions in Trichoderma atroviride
Authors: Moreno-Ruiz Dubraska , Salzmann Linda , Fricker Mark , Zeilinger Susanne , Lichius Alexander
Published: May 2021

Trichoderma atroviride is a mycoparasitic fungus used as biological control agent against fungal plant pathogens. The recognition and appropriate morphogenetic responses to prey-derived signals are essential for successful mycoparasitism. We established microcolony confrontation assays using T. atroviride strains expressing cell division cycle 42 (Cdc42) and Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) interactive binding (CRIB) reporters to analyse morphogenetic changes and the dynamic displacement of localized GTPase activity during polarized tip growth. Microscopic analyses showed that Trichoderma experiences significant polarity stress when approaching its fungal preys. The perception of prey-derived signals is integrated via the guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling network, and deletion of the MAP kinases Trichoderma MAPK 1 (Tmk1) and Tmk3 affected T. atroviride tip polarization, chemotropic growth, and contact-induced morphogenesis so severely that the establishment of mycoparasitism was highly inefficient to impossible. The responses varied depending on the prey species and the interaction stage, reflecting the high selectivity of the signalling process. Our data suggest that Tmk3 affects the polarity-stress adaptation process especially during the pre-contact phase, whereas Tmk1 regulates contact-induced morphogenesis at the early-contact phase. Neither Tmk1 nor Tmk3 loss-of-function could be fully compensated within the GTPase/MAPK signalling network underscoring the crucial importance of a sensitive polarized tip growth apparatus for successful mycoparasitism.
Transcriptional Analysis of Coccidioides immitis Mycelia and Spherules by RNA Sequencing
Authors: Carlin Aaron F. , Beyhan Sinem , Peña Jesús F. , Stajich Jason E. , Viriyakosol Suganya , Fierer Joshua , Kirkland Theo N.
Published: May 2021

Coccidioides immitis and C. posadasii are dimorphic fungi that transform from mycelia with internal arthroconidia in the soil to a tissue form known as a spherule in mammals. This process can be recapitulated in vitro by increasing the temperature, CO2 and changing other culture conditions. In this study, we have analyzed changes in gene expression in mycelia and young and mature spherules. Genes that were highly upregulated in young spherules include a spherule surface protein and iron and copper membrane transporters. Genes that are unique to Coccidioides spp. are also overrepresented in this group, suggesting that they may be important for spherule differentiation. Enriched GO terms in young spherule upregulated genes include oxidation-reduction, response to stress and membrane proteins. Downregulated genes are enriched for transcription factors, especially helix–loop–helix and C2H2 type zinc finger domain-containing proteins, which is consistent with the dramatic change in transcriptional profile. Almost all genes that are upregulated in young spherules remain upregulated in mature spherules, but a small number of genes are differentially expressed in those two stages of spherule development. Mature spherules express more Hsp31 and amylase and less tyrosinase than young spherules. Some expression of transposons was detected and most of the differentially expressed transposons were upregulated in spherules.
How to Design Cryptocurrency Value and How to Secure Its Sustainability in the Market
Authors: Yoo Soonduck
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study is to analyze the contents of cryptocurrency value design based on adaptability to the current market. It is also intended to provide a method of issuing cryptocurrency before its creation, and an operation method afterwards. Activities before the creation of cryptocurrency must determine desirable behaviors and rewards to create value, and suggest countermeasures to prevent participants from engaging in undesirable behaviors. After the creation of a cryptocurrency, it is necessary to propose a method to induce scarcity and increase demand so that the value of the generated cryptocurrency can be sustained. To observe this, we looked at the contents of the value design of the eight types of cryptocurrencies currently in use in the market. Some cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, are choosing mining as a reward, to secure scarcity for maintaining the value of cryptocurrency, limiting the amount of issuance, and burning the already issued cryptocurrency in the market. Also, increasing demand helps maintain the value of cryptocurrency. This study can contribute to supporting the growth of a healthy cryptocurrency market through cryptocurrency-related research.
How Does an Aerotropolis Integrate? A Case from Zhengzhou Airport Economy Zone
Authors: Huo Baofeng , Guo Mengqiu
Published: May 2021

As the modern aviation-oriented business model (aerotropolis), the Airport Economy Zone (AEZ) accumulates capital, technology, workforce, and other production factors. The AEZ always has a large number of infrastructure investments. Still, it has not yet achieved the expected effect in integrating and driving other regional resource endowments in the short term in China. Therefore, governments and AEZ organizations must utilize these investments and create values. This paper demonstrates how the Zhengzhou AEZ (ZAEZ) in China integrates its resources and stakeholders to overcome the remaining issues in its airport stage and gain competitive advantages. We classify three integrations: integrations from contents, including strategic alliance, information sharing, and process coordination; integrations from objectives, including internal integration and external integration; and integrations from objects, including integrating stakeholder, financial resource, and material resource. This paper presents the value creation and competitive advantages of the economy zone from the analysis of different integrations.
Al2O3/ZrO2 Materials as an Environmentally Friendly Solution for Linear Infrastructure Applications
Authors: Zygmuntowicz Justyna , Żurowski Radosław , Tomaszewska Justyna , Wachowski Marcin , Torzewski Janusz , Piotrkiewicz Paulina , Gloc Michał , Konopka Katarzyna
Published: May 2021

The present work deals with the evaluation of the effect of ZrO2 on the structure and selected properties of shapes obtained using the centrifugal slip casting method. The samples were made of alumina and zirconia. The applied technology made it possible to produce tubes with a high density reaching 99–100% after sintering. Very good bonding was obtained at the Al2O3/ZrO2 interphase boundaries with no discernible delamination or cracks, which was confirmed by STEM observations. In the case of Al2O3/ZrO2 composites containing 5 vol.% and 10 vol.% ZrO2, the presence of equiaxial ZrO2 grains with an average size of 0.25 µm was observed, which are distributed along the grain boundaries of Al2O3. At the same time, the composites exhibited a very high hardness of 22–23 GPa. Moreover, the environmental influences accompanying the sintering process were quantified. The impacts were determined using the life cycle analysis method, in the phase related to the extraction and processing of raw materials and the process of producing Al2O3/ZrO2 composites. The results obtained show that the production of 1 kg of sintered composite results in greenhouse gas emissions of 2.24–2.9 kg CO2 eq. which is comparable to the amount of emissions accompanying the production of 1 kg of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polypropylene (PP), or hot-rolled steel products.
Microstructure and Abrasive Wear Resistance of Metal Matrix Composite Coatings Deposited on Steel Grade AISI 4715 by Powder Plasma Transferred Arc Welding Part 1. Mechanical and Structural Properties of a Cobalt-Based Alloy Surface Layer Reinforced with Particles of Titanium Carbide and Synthetic Metal–Diamond Composite
Authors: Czupryński Artur
Published: May 2021

The article discusses test results concerning an innovative surface layer obtained using the cladding with powder plasma transferred arc welding (PPTAW) method. The above-named layer, being a metal matrix composite (MCM), is characterised by high abrasive wear resistance, resistance to pressure and impact loads, and the possibility of operation at elevated temperatures. The layer was made using powder in the form of a cobalt alloy-based composite reinforced with monocarbide TiC particles and superhard spherical particles of synthetic metal–diamond composite provided with tungsten coating. The surface layer was deposited on a sheet made of low-alloy structural steel grade AISI 4715. The layer is intended for surfaces of inserts of drilling tools used in the extraction industry. The results showed the lack of the thermal and structural decomposition of the hard layer reinforcing the matrix during the cladding process, its very high resistance to metal-mineral abrasive wear and its resistance to moderate impact loads. The abrasive wear resistance of the deposited layer with particles of TiC and synthetic metal–diamond composite was about than 140 times higher than the abrasive wear resistance of abrasion resistant heat-treated steel having a nominal hardness of 400 HBW. The use of diamond as a metal matrix reinforcement in order to increase the abrasive resistance of the PPTAW overlay layer is a new and innovative area of inquiry. There is no information related to tests concerning metal matrix surface layers reinforced with synthetic metal–diamond composite and obtained using PPTAW method.
Water Sorption and Solubility of Flowable Giomers
Authors: Rusnac Mara Elena , Prodan Doina , Cuc Stanca , Petean Ioan , Prejmerean Cristina , Gasparik Cristina , Dudea Diana , Moldovan Marioara
Published: May 2021

The objective of this study is the characterization of a novel experimental flowable giomer (G) regarding water sorption, water solubility, and the microstructural characteristics, in comparison to three commercial giomers: Beautifil flow Plus X F00 (B-F00), Beautifil flow F02 (B-F02) and Beautifil flow Plus X F03 (B-F03), Shofu, Kyoto, Japan. Methods: Water sorption/solubility was performed by weighing the specimens before and after water immersion for 1, 2, 3, 14, 21 and 30 days. Data analysis was carried out with the software Origin2019b Graphing & Analysis using the ANOVA test and the Tukey test for post hoc comparison of the groups of materials. The microstructural analyses were done with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and an atomic force microscope (AFM). The results showed significant differences between the tested materials (p < 0.05). For sorption, the Tukey test indicated differences between all four sample groups, except between B-F02 and B-F03, which exhibited no differences in any of the investigation days. The Tukey test also showed significant differences regarding solubility between all sample groups in the 30-day interval. SEM images and roughness showed that after 30 days of immersion in water, the experimental giomer G had the roughest surface.
Machine Learning Identification of Piezoelectric Properties
Authors: del Castillo Mariana , Pérez Nicolás
Published: May 2021

The behavior of a piezoelectric element can be reproduced with high accuracy using numerical simulations. However, simulations are limited by knowledge of the parameters in the piezoelectric model. The identification of the piezoelectric model can be addressed using different techniques but is still a problem for manufacturers and end users. In this paper, we present the use of a machine learning approach to determine the parameters in the model. In this first work, the main sensitive parameters, c11, c13, c33, c44 and e33 were predicted using a neural network numerically trained by using finite element simulations. Close to one million simulations were performed by changing the value of the selected parameters by ±10% around the starting point. To train the network, the values of a PZT 27 piezoelectric ceramic with a diameter of 20 mm and thickness of 2 mm were used as the initial seed. The first results were very encouraging, and provided the original parameters with a difference of less than 0.6% in the worst case. The proposed approach is extremely fast after the training of the neural network. It is suitable for manufacturers or end users that work with the same material and a fixed number of geometries.
Fresh and Rheological Performances of Air-Entrained 3D Printable Mortars
Authors: Tarhan Yeşim , Şahin Remzi
Published: May 2021

The effect of air-entraining admixture (AEA) on the fresh and rheological behavior of mortars designed to be used in 3D printers was investigated. Blast furnace slag, calcined kaolin clay, polypropylene fiber, and various chemical additives were used in the mortar mixtures produced with Super White Cement (CEM I 52.5 R) and quartz sand. In addition to unit weight, air content, and compressive strength tests, in order to determine the stability of 3D printable mortar elements created by extruding layer by layer without any deformation, extrudability, buildability, and open time tests were applied. Fresh and rheological properties of 3D printable mortars were also determined. It was concluded that the addition of AEA to the mortars decreased the unit weight, viscosity, yield, and compressive strength, but increased the air content, spread diameter, initial setting time, and thixotropy of 3D printable mortar. It is recommended to develop a unique chemical admixture for 3D printable mortars, considering the active ingredients of the chemical additives that affect fresh and rheological performance of mortar such as superplasticizer, viscosity modifying, and cement hydration control.
Effects of Processing Parameters of Selective Laser Melting Process on Thermal Conductivity of AlSi10Mg Alloy
Authors: Kim Moo-Sun
Published: May 2021

Selected laser melting (SLM) is a representative process of powder-bed type 3D printing technology that is used to manipulate metals and it generally results in various structural properties according to the process conditions. In this study, a thermal conductivity test was conducted on AlSi10Mg specimens that were manufactured using the SLM process to investigate the influence of various process conditions on the thermophysical characteristics and cellular microstructure of the samples. The building direction of the specimen, laser scan speed, and hatch spacing were considered as process variables, and the thermal conductivity was analyzed for each process variable. In the test results, as the polar angle of the specimen increased from 0° to 90°, the thermal conductivity increased. Furthermore, the thermal conductivity gradually decreased as the scan speed and hatch spacing increased. The differences in thermal characteristics are discussed in connection with the microstructure of the cells constituting the melt pool. The solidified melt pool that formed by the laser beam is composed of cells consisting of an Al matrix and a surrounding Si-rich area. The differences in thermal conductivity of the overall specimens are explained based on the variations in thermal conductivity and cell shape and size for each chemical component.
The Effect of Tropical Environment on Fatigue Failure in Royal Malaysian Airforce (RMAF) Aircraft Structure and Operational Readiness
Authors: Venugopal Arvinthan , Mohammad Roslina , Koslan Md Fuad Shah , Sayd Bakar Syed Roslee , Ali Alizarin
Published: May 2021

The environmental condition in which the Royal Malaysian Airforce is currently operating its aircraft is prone to corrosion. This is due to the high relative humidity and temperature. With most of its aircraft being in the legacy aircraft era, the aircraft’s main construction consists of the aluminium 2024 material. However, this material is prone to corrosion, thus reducing fatigue life and leading to fatigue failure. Using the concept of either Safe Life or Damage Tolerance as its fatigue design philosophy, the RMAF adopts the Aircraft Structure Integrity Program (ASIP) to monitor its structural integrity. With the current problem of not having the structural limitation on corrosion-damaged structure, the RMAF has embarked on its fatigue testing method. Finite Element (FE) studies and flight tests were conducted, and the outcome is summarized. The conclusion is that the longeron tested on the aircraft can withstand the operational load, and its yield strength is below the ultimate yield strength of the material. These research outcomes will also enhance the ASIP for other aircraft platforms in the RMAF fleet for its structure life assessment or service life extension program.
Enhancement of Diffusion Assisted Bonding of the Bimetal Composite of Austenitic/Ferric Steels via Intrinsic Interlayers
Authors: He Chenwei , Pan Guangshan , Xie Lu , Peng Qing
Published: May 2021

We investigate the effect of the intrinsic interlayers on the diffusion assisted bonding properties of the austenitic steel (stainless steel 316L) and ferric steels (Low-carbon steel Q345R) in a hot rolling process by molecular dynamics simulations and experiment. The introduction of an intrinsic interlayer (Cr or Ni) widens the diffusion region, leading to enhancement of bonding. The thickness of the diffusion region enlarges with an increase of temperature, with an enhancement factor of 195% and 108%, for Cr and Ni interlayer, respectively, at the temperature of 1800 K. Further diffusion analysis reveals the unsymmetrical diffusion near the interface. Our experimental investigation evidenced our computation discovery.
Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-Modulated Guided Tissue Regeneration with a Bioresorbable Membrane in Class III Furcation Defects: A Histometric Study in the Monkey
Authors: Weng Dietmar , Stapf Lina , Kern Matthias , Kohal Ralf-Joachim
Published: May 2021

It was the aim of this study to histometrically evaluate guided tissue regeneration (bioresorbable membrane plus bone mineral) (GTR) with or without platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in two different types of class III furcation defects (small keyhole defects and horizonal defects) in monkeys. In six cynomolgus monkeys, two types of class III furcation defects were created and allowed to chronify for 5 months in mandibular first and second molars. After a hygiene program the molars were assigned to GTR group (collagen membrane plus bovine bone mineral), PDGF group (collagen membrane plus bovine bone mineral plus PDGF), or negative control group (flap reposition only). Histologic sections were made after 7 months of healing and descriptive statistics were provided from the histometric parameters. Postoperative healing was uneventful despite marginal membrane exposures in the GTR and PDGF group. Bone regeneration of 23–35% of the original defect area was found in the two treatment groups. In none of the evaluated key parameters (formation of bone, root cementum, connective tissue, or epithelium) differences were detected between GTR and PDGF groups. However, the negative control teeth exhibited better bone regeneration than the treatment groups. The type of class III defect did not influence the regenerative outcome. Within the limits of this study PDGF was not able to enhance the histologic regeneration of class III furcation areas in monkeys compared to bone mineral enhanced GTR treatment regardless of the defect configuration. Membrane exposure during early healing might have influenced these outcomes.
Study on the Purity of Gold Leaf in a SO2 Atmosphere at Ambient Temperature
Authors: Huang Houyi , Xu Guanglin , Liu Xinyou
Published: May 2021

Gold leaf samples of different purities were corroded in a SO2 atmosphere at three different relative humidities (30%, 60%, 90%) at ambient temperature, and the effects on color, gloss, and morphology were studied. Results showed that a corrosion rate of 0.0898 g/cm2 could be attained after 6 weeks at high humidity. Color changes also occurred during the gold leaf corrosion process, and many thin pits formed on the surfaces, as shown by SEM. EDX results showed that these pits contained C, O, and S compounds. By comparing the results of different gold purity samples and different relative humidity conditions, it could be concluded that both gold content and humidity play an important role in SO2 atmosphere corrosion. These conclusions are helpful for the conservation of gold leaf decorative cultural relics.
Mechanochemical Synthesis of Pt/Nb2CTx MXene Composites for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Fan Xiaoyuan , Du Peng , Ma Xiaoxuan , Wang Ruyue , Ma Jingteng , Wang Yonggang , Fan Dongyu , Long Yuanzheng , Deng Bohan , Huang Kai , Wu Hui
Published: May 2021

Production of hydrogen from water splitting has been considered as a promising solution for energy conversion and storage. Since a noble metal-based structure is still the most satisfactory but scarce kind of catalyst, it is significant to allow for practical application of such catalysts by engineering the heterogeneous structure and developing green and facile synthetic strategies. Herein, we report a mechanochemical ball milling synthesis of platinum nanoclusters immobilized on a 2D transition metal carbide MXene (Nb2CTx) as an enhanced catalyst for hydrogen evolution. After annealing at 600 °C, ultrafine Pt3Nb nanoclusters are formed on the Pt/Nb2CTx catalyst. As prepared, the Pt/Nb2CTx-600 catalyst demonstrates superior electrochemical HER activity and stability with an ultralow overpotential of 5 mV and 46 mV to achieve 10 mA cm−2 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively, in comparison with other Nb2CTx-based catalysts and commercial Pt/C catalysts. Moreover, the remarkable durability is also confirmed by accelerated durability tests (ADTs) and long-term chronoamperometry (CA) tests. The excellent HER performance was attributed to high Pt dispersion and more active site exposure by the mechanochemical process and thermal treatment. Such results suggest that the mechanochemical strategy provides a novel approach for rational design and cost-effective production of electrocatalysts, also providing other potential applications in a wide range of areas.
Carbon Nanotubes and Polydopamine Modified Poly(dimethylsiloxane) Sponges for Efficient Oil–Water Separation
Authors: Zhang Wen , Wang Juanjuan , Han Xue , Li Lele , Liu Enping , Lu Conghua
Published: May 2021

In this paper, effective separation of oil from both immiscible oil–water mixtures and oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions are achieved by using poly(dimethylsiloxane)-based (PDMS-based) composite sponges. A modified hard template method using citric acid monohydrate as the hard template and dissolving it in ethanol is proposed to prepare PDMS sponge composited with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) both in the matrix and the surface. The introduction of CNTs endows the composite sponge with enhanced comprehensive properties including hydrophobicity, absorption capacity, and mechanical strength than the pure PDMS. We demonstrate the successful application of CNT-PDMS composite in efficient removal of oil from immiscible oil–water mixtures within not only a bath absorption, but also continuous separation for both static and turbulent flow conditions. This notable characteristic of the CNT-PDMS sponge enables it as a potential candidate for large-scale industrial oil–water separation. Furthermore, a polydopamine (PDA) modified CNT-PDMS is developed here, which firstly realizes the separation of O/W emulsion without continuous squeezing of the sponge. The combined superhydrophilic and superoleophilic property of PDA/CNT-PDMS is assumed to be critical in the spontaneously demulsification process.
Mechanical Characteristics of Graphene Nanoplatelets-Modified Asphalt Mixes: A Comparison with Polymer- and Not-Modified Asphalt Mixes
Authors: Moretti Laura , Fabrizi Nico , Fiore Nicola , D’Andrea Antonio
Published: May 2021

In recent years, nanotechnology has sparked an interest in nanomodification of bituminous materials to increase the viscosity of asphalt binders and improves the rutting and fatigue resistance of asphalt mixtures. This paper presents the experimental results of laboratory tests on bituminous mixtures laid on a 1052 m-long test section built in Rome, Italy. Four asphalt mixtures for wearing and binder layer were considered: two polymer modified asphalt concretes (the former modified with the additive Superplast and the latter modified with styrene–butadiene–styrene), a “hard” graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) modified asphalt concrete and a not-modified mixture. The indirect tensile strength, water sensitivity, stiffness modulus, and fatigue resistance of the mixtures were tested and compared. A statistical analysis based on the results has shown that the mixtures with GNPs have higher mechanical performances than the others: GNP could significantly improve the tested mechanical performances; further studies will be carried out to investigate its effect on rutting and skid resistance.
Iminopyridine Ni(II) Catalysts Affording Oily Hyperbranched Ethylene Oligomers and/or Crystalline Polyethylenes Depending on the Reaction Conditions: Possible Role of In Situ Catalyst Structure Modifications
Authors: D’Auria Ilaria , Saki Zeinab , Pellecchia Claudio
Published: May 2021

Nickel-based ethylene polymerization catalysts have unique features, being able to produce macromolecules with a variable content of branches, resulting in polymers ranging from semicrystalline plastics to elastomers to hyperbranched amorphous waxes and oils. In addition to Brookhart’s α-diimine catalysts, iminopyridine Ni(II) complexes are among the most investigated systems. We report that Ni(II) complexes bearing aryliminopyridine ligands with bulky substituents both at the imino moiety and in the 6-position of pyridine afford either hyperbranched low molecular weight polyethylene oils or prevailingly linear crystalline polyethylenes or both, depending on the ligand structure and the reaction conditions. The formation of multiple active species in situ is suggested by analysis of the post-polymerization catalyst residues, showing the partial reduction of the imino function. Some related arylaminopyridine Ni(II) complexes were also synthesized and tested, showing a peculiar behavior, i.e., the number of branches of the produced polyethylenes increases while ethylene pressure increases.