bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Comorbidity in Periodontitis: Fusobacterium nucleatum and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Mesa Francisco , Mesa-López Maria José , Egea-Valenzuela Juan , Benavides-Reyes Cristina , Nibali Luigi , Ide Mark , Mainas Giuseppe , Rizzo Manfredi , Magan-Fernandez Antonio
Published: April 2022

There is very recent and strong evidence relating Fusobacterium nucleatum to colorectal cancer. In this narrative review, we update the knowledge about gingival dysbiosis and the characteristics of Fusobacterium nucleatum as one of the main bacteria related to periodontitis. We provide data on microbiome, epidemiology, risk factors, prognosis, and treatment of colorectal cancer, one of the most frequent tumours diagnosed and whose incidence increases every year. We describe, from its recent origin, the relationship between this bacterium and this type of cancer and the knowledge and emerging mechanisms that scientific evidence reveals in an updated way. A diagram provided synthesizes the pathogenic mechanisms of this relationship in a comprehensive manner. Finally, the main questions and further research perspectives are presented.
Eribulin Mesylate Improves Cisplatin-Induced Cytotoxicity of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer by Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase 1/2 Activation
Authors: Ko Hyemi , Lee Myungsun , Cha Eunyoung , Sul Jiyoung , Park Junbeom , Lee Jinsun
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives; Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with poor patient prognosis because of its multiple molecular features. Thus, more effective treatment for TNBC is urgently needed. This study determined the possible involvement of ERK1/2 activation in cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity in TNBC by providing additional eribulin treatment. Materials and Methods; We investigated cell viability and apoptosis caused by eribulin, cisplatin, or co-treatment in HCC38, MDA-MB-231, and SKBR3 human breast cancer cells. Results; Cisplatin significantly lowered cell viability and caused high apoptotic cell death in all breast cancer cell lines. The viability of TNBC cells was significantly lower in the group co-treated with cisplatin and eribulin than in the cisplatin-only treatment group. Additional eribulin treatment significantly enhanced PARP cleavage and caspase-3 activity in cisplatin-treated TNBC cells. Moreover, cisplatin treatment activated ERK1/2 in all breast cancer cell lines. The cisplatin and eribulin combination synergistically activated ERK1/2 in TNBC cells compared with the cisplatin-only treatment. Administration of the ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 increased the viability of TNBC cells treated with cisplatin plus eribulin. Conclusions; Eribulin could synergize the cytotoxic and apoptotic activities of cisplatin and increase ERK1/2 activation, thus enhancing anti-cancer effects against TNBC cells.
Leptin in the Commissural Nucleus of the Tractus Solitarius (cNTS) and Anoxic Stimulus in the Carotid Body Chemoreceptors Increases cNTS Leptin Signaling Receptor and Brain Glucose Retention in Rats
Authors: Lemus Mónica , Mojarro Cynthia , Montero Sergio , Ramírez-Flores Mario , Torres-Magallanes José , Maturano-Melgoza Adrián , Roces de Álvarez-Buylla Elena
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: The commissural nucleus of the tractus solitarius (cNTS) not only responds to glucose levels directly, but also receives afferent signals from the liver, and from the carotid chemoreceptors (CChR). In addition, leptin, through its receptors in the cNTS, regulates food intake, body weight, blood glucose levels, and brain glucose retention (BGR). These leptin effects on cNTS are thought to be mediated through the sympathetic–adrenal system. How these different sources of information converging in the NTS regulate blood glucose levels and brain glucose retention remains largely unknown. The goal of the present study was to determine whether the local administration of leptin in cNTS alone, or after local anoxic stimulation using sodium cyanide (NaCN) in the carotid sinus, modifies the expression of leptin Ob-Rb and of c-Fos mRNA. We also investigated how leptin, alone, or in combination with carotid sinus stimulation, affected brain glucose retention. Materials and Methods: The experiments were carried out in anesthetized male Wistar rats artificially ventilated to maintain homeostatic values for pO2, pCO2, and pH. We had four groups: (a) experimental 1, leptin infusion in cNTS and NaCN in the isolated carotid sinus (ICS; n = 10); (b) experimental 2, leptin infusion in cNTS and saline in the ICS (n = 10); (c) control 1, artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) in cNTS and NaCN in the ICS (n = 10); (d) control 2, aCSF in cNTS and saline in the ICS (n = 10). Results: Leptin in cNTS, preceded by NaCN in the ICS increased BGR and leptin Ob-Rb mRNA receptor expression, with no significant increases in c-Fos mRNA in the NTSc. Conclusions: Leptin in the cNTS enhances brain glucose retention induced by an anoxic stimulus in the carotid chemoreceptors, through an increase in Ob-Rb receptors, without persistent changes in neuronal activation.
Retrospective Comparison of Laparoscopic versus Open Radical Hysterectomy for Early-Stage Cervical Cancer in a Single Tertiary Care Institution from Lithuania between 2009 and 2019
Authors: Vasilevska Danuta , Vasilevska Dominika , Semczuk Andrzej , Rudaitis Vilius
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: A great debate within the academic arena was evoked by the LACC study, giving rise to doubt regarding the oncological outcomes of the laparoscopic approach for early-stage cervical cancer. This encouraged us to conduct a retrospective analysis of CC treatment surgical approaches applied to the patients at tertiary level Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Clinics, Vilnius, Lithuania, between 2009 and 2019. Materials and Methods: The retrospective study was carried out to evaluate the outcomes after 28 laparoscopic and 62 laparotomic radical hysterectomies for early cervical cancer in a single tertiary care institution performed during the period 2009–2019. For statistical analysis of patients’ parameters, SPSS v. 17.0 was applied, together with the Kaplan–Meier method with a long-rank test and the Cox proportional hazard regression model used for bi-variate analysis determining OS outcomes between MIS and open-surgery groups. Results: After computing data with the Cox regression model, there was no significant difference of the 36-months overall survival between laparoscopy and laparotomy groups, as opposed to the LACC study. Conclusions: Our tertiary institution faces a considerable challenge, and we acknowledge the limitations of the study and also feel a responsibility to follow the latest guidelines. Currently, it appears that the most substantial attention should be focused on the cessation of uterine manipulator use as well as laparoscopic technique learning curves.
Impact of the Rapid Normalization of Chronic Hyperglycemia on the Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor-Kappa B Ligand and the Osteoprotegerin System in Patients Living with Type 2 Diabetes: RANKL-GLYC Study
Authors: Dardari Dured , Thomas Claire , Laborne Francois-Xavier , Tourte Caroline , Henry Elodie , Erblang Megane , Bourdon Stéphanie , Penfornis Alfred , Lopes Philippe
Published: April 2022

The RANKL-GLYC study aims to explore the impact of the rapid correction of chronic hyperglycemia on the receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL) and its antagonist osteoprotegerin (OPG). RANKL and OPG are considered the main factors in the pathophysiology of Charcot neuroarthropathy, a devastating complication of the joints that remains poorly understood. The study began recruiting patients in September 2021 and ends in June 2022; the final study results are scheduled for January 2023.
Role of Human Papilloma Virus and Lifestyle Factors in Overall Survival of Patients with Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Nishikawa Daisuke , Hanai Nobuhiro , Ozawa Taijiro , Kitahara Tadashi , Hasegawa Yasuhisa
Published: April 2022

Background: Patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) have a significantly better treatment response and overall survival (OS) rates than non-HPV-associated OPSCC. Objectives: We conducted the present study to further characterize the interplay between lifestyle risk factors, which are not only HPV status, but also smoking history and alcohol consumption, and the OS to optimize the treatment of patients with OPSCC. Materials and Methods: Between January 2006 and December 2013, 94 patients newly diagnosed with OPSCC were treated with curative intent at Aichi Cancer Center Hospital (Nagoya, Japan). To determine negative prognostic factors associated with the OS, univariate and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed. Results: Of the 94 OPSCC patients, 53 (56.4%) were positive for HPV. The univariate analysis revealed that T classification, smoking history, alcohol consumption, and HPV status were significant determinants of the OS. In the multivariate analysis, adjusted for the clinical stage, smoking history, alcohol consumption, HPV status, and a smoking history of >10 pack-years was an independent negative prognostic factor for the OS among patients with OPSCC (HR: 10.4, 95 %CI: 1.34–80.6, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Smoking is a very important negative prognostic factor even in cases of HPV-associated OPSCC. The impact of smoking needs to be reaffirmed when deciding on treatment plans and de-escalation trials in OPSCC, even in cases of HPV-associated OPSCC.
Anti-Citrullinated Peptide Antibody Expression and Its Association with Clinical Features and Outcomes in Patients with Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis
Authors: Ahn Sung Soo , Pyo Jung Yoon , Song Jasong Jungsik , Park Yong-Beom , Lee Sang-Won
Published: April 2022

Background and objectives: Anti-citrullinated peptide antibody (ACPA), a characteristic antibody detected in rheumatoid arthritis, could be linked to antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) via the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps. We investigated the rate of ACPA positivity in patients with AAV and evaluated the association of ACPAs with their clinical features and outcomes. Materials and Methods: A total of 168 AAV patients with both ACPA and ANCA results at diagnosis were identified. Clinical and laboratory variables, including the disease-specific indices of Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score (BVAS) and Five-Factor Score (FFS), were investigated. All-cause mortality, relapse, and end-stage renal disease, as well as interstitial lung disease (ILD) were evaluated as outcomes of the patients, and the Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was used to compare the event-free survival rates of the groups. Results: Fifteen (8.9%) and 135 (80.4%) patients were positive for ACPA and ANCA, respectively. There were no significant differences in the baseline variables of ACPA-negative and ACPA-positive patients. The absolute titre of ACPAs also did not significantly correlate with BVAS, FFS, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, or C-reactive protein. In addition, there was no difference noted regarding overall, relapse-free, and ESRD-free survival rates between ACPA-negative and ACPA-positive AAV patients. However, when the patients were divided into four groups according to ACPA and ANCA status, differences were present in the outcomes, and the ACPA-positive ANCA-positive group exhibited the lowest cumulative relapse-free survival rate, while no significant difference was present in the relapse between the ANCA-positive ANCA-positive, ACPA-positive ANCA-negative, and ACPA-negative ANCA-positive groups. Finally, the cumulative ILD-free survival rates were comparable between ACPA-positive and ACPA-negative AAV patients. Conclusions: The detection of ACPA expression is not uncommon in AAV. However, the presence of ACPA did not influence patients’ basal characteristics and outcomes, suggesting that further exploration of the role of this antibody is needed in patients with AAV.
Aspects of Psychiatric Comorbidities in Breast Cancer Patients in Tertiary Hospitals Due to COVID-19 Outbreak in South Korea: A Single Center Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Park Jeongmin , Kim Seonhwa , Heo Jaesung
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of mental disorders in patients with breast cancer at Ajou University Hospital. In addition, the patterns and prevalence of mental disorders according to the occurrence of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) were analyzed. Materials and Methods: From 1 January 2008 to 30 June 2021, psychiatric disorders were identified in 5174 female patients diagnosed with breast cancer at Ajou University Hospital. Based on the time when COVID-19 occurred, the pattern of onset of mental disorders in patients with breast cancer was analyzed. In addition, the prevalence of mental disorders according to the time of breast cancer diagnosis and age was evaluated. Results: A year before the diagnosis of breast cancer, 371 patients were diagnosed with a mental disorder. Of these, 201 patients were diagnosed with stress and adjustment disorders, and 97 patients had anxiety disorders. The overall frequency of psychiatric disorders after breast cancer diagnosis peaked two months later. Among psychiatric disorders reported before the COVID-19 pandemic, the proportion of stress/adaptation disorders was 52%, and among psychiatric disorders reported after the pandemic, it was significantly higher at 94.7%. Anxiety was found to be high in the elderly group aged ≥ 60 years, and the prevalence of stress and adjustment disorders tended to increase in the non-elderly group. Conclusions: Breast cancer patients showed different patterns of psychiatric disorders according to age, time of breast cancer diagnosis, and the occurrence of COVID-19. Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, delays in treatment and anxiety about infection have increased the rate of stress and adjustment disorders in cancer patients. Mental health management during the pandemic and after cancer diagnosis can improve the quality of life of patients with cancer.
MOF/Polymer Mixed-Matrix Membranes Preparation: Effect of Main Synthesis Parameters on CO2/CH4 Separation Performance
Authors: Kulak Harun , Thür Raymond , Vankelecom Ivo F. J.
Published: April 2022

Design and preparation of mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) with minimum defects and high performance for desired gas separations is still challenging as it depends on a variety of MMM synthesis parameters. In this study, 6FDA-DAM:DABA based MMMs using MOF-808 as filler were prepared to examine the impact of multiple variables on the preparation process of MMMs, including variation in polymer concentration, filler loading, volume of solution cast per membrane area, solvent type used and solvent evaporation rate, and to identify their impact on the CO2/CH4 separation performance of these membranes. Solvent evaporation rate proved to be the most critical synthesis parameter, directly influencing the performance and visual appearance of the membranes. Although less dominantly influencing the MMM performance, polymer concentration and solution volume also had an important role via control over the casting solution viscosity, particle agglomeration, and particle settling rate. Among all solvents studied, MMMs prepared with chloroform led to the best performance for this polymer-filler system. Chloroform-based MMMs containing 10 and 30 wt.% MOF-808 showed 73% and 62% increase in CO2 permeability, respectively, without a decrease in separation factor compared to unfilled membranes. The results indicate that enhanced gas separation performance of MMMs strongly depends on the cumulative effect of various synthesis parameters rather than individual impact, thus requiring a system-specific design and optimization.
Flat PVDF Membrane with Enhanced Hydrophobicity through Alkali Activation and Organofluorosilanisation for Dissolved Methane Recovery
Authors: Jiménez-Robles Ramón , Moreno-Torralbo Beatriz María , Badia Jose David , Martínez-Soria Vicente , Izquierdo Marta
Published: April 2022

A three-step surface modification consisting of activation with NaOH, functionalisation with a silica precursor and organofluorosilane mixture (FSiT), and curing was applied to a poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) membrane for the recovery of dissolved methane (D-CH4) from aqueous streams. Based on the results of a statistical experimental design, the main variables affecting the water contact angle (WCA) were the NaOH concentration and the FSiT ratio and concentration used. The maximum WCA of the modified PVDF (mPVDFmax) was >140° at a NaOH concentration of 5%, an FSiT ratio of 0.55 and an FSiT concentration of 7.2%. The presence of clusters and a lower surface porosity of mPVDF was detected by FESEM analysis. In long-term stability tests with deionised water at 21 L h−1, the WCA of the mPVDF decreased rapidly to around 105°, similar to that of pristine nmPVDF. In contrast, the WCA of the mPVDF was always higher than that of nmPVDF in long-term operation with an anaerobic effluent at 3.5 L h−1 and showed greater mechanical stability, since water breakthrough was detected only with the nmPVDF membrane. D-CH4 degassing tests showed that the increase in hydrophobicity induced by the modification procedure increased the D-CH4 removal efficiency but seemed to promote fouling.
A Short Overview of Biological Fuel Cells
Authors: Ferrari Ivan Vito , Pasquini Luca , Narducci Riccardo , Sgreccia Emanuela , Di Vona Maria Luisa , Knauth Philippe
Published: April 2022

This short review summarizes the improvements on biological fuel cells (BioFCs) with or without ionomer separation membrane. After a general introduction about the main challenges of modern energy management, BioFCs are presented including microbial fuel cells (MFCs) and enzymatic fuel cells (EFCs). The benefits of BioFCs include the capability to derive energy from waste-water and organic matter, the possibility to use bacteria or enzymes to replace expensive catalysts such as platinum, the high selectivity of the electrode reactions that allow working with less complicated systems, without the need for high purification, and the lower environmental impact. In comparison with classical FCs and given their lower electrochemical performances, BioFCs have, up to now, only found niche applications with low power needs, but they could become a green solution in the perspective of sustainable development and the circular economy. Ion exchange membranes for utilization in BioFCs are discussed in the final section of the review: they include perfluorinated proton exchange membranes but also aromatic polymers grafted with proton or anion exchange groups.
Membrane Repairing Capability of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells Is Regulated by Drug Resistance and Epithelial-Mesenchymal-Transition
Authors: Xia Xingyu , Yang Hanbo , Au Dennis , Lai Syrus , Lin Yuan , Cho William
Published: April 2022

The plasma membrane separates the interior of the cells from the extracellular fluid and protects the cell from disruptive external factors. Therefore, the self-repairing capability of the membrane is crucial for cells to maintain homeostasis and survive in a hostile environment. Here, we found that micron-sized membrane pores induced by cylindrical atomic force microscope probe puncture resealed significantly (~1.3–1.5 times) faster in drug-resistant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines than in their drug-sensitive counterparts. Interestingly, we found that such enhanced membrane repairing ability was due to the overexpression of annexin in drug-resistant NSCLC cells. In addition, a further ~50% reduction in membrane resealing time (i.e., from ~23 s to ~13 s) was observed through the epithelial-mesenchymal-transition, highlighting the superior viability and potential of highly aggressive tumor cells using membrane resealing as an indicator for assessing the drug-resistivity and pathological state of cancer.
Evaluation of the Specific Energy Consumption of Sea Water Reverse Osmosis Integrated with Membrane Distillation and Pressure–Retarded Osmosis Processes with Theoretical Models
Authors: Tsai Shao-Chi , Huang Wei-Zhi , Lin Geng-Sheng , Wang Zhen , Tung Kuo-Lun , Chuang Ching-Jung
Published: April 2022

In this study, theoretical models for specific energy consumption (SEC) were established for water recovery in different integrated processes, such as RO-PRO, RO-MD and RO-MD-PRO. Our models can evaluate SEC under different water recovery conditions and for various proportions of supplied waste heat. Simulation results showed that SEC in RO increases with the water recovery rate when the rate is greater than 30%. For the RO-PRO process, the SEC also increases with the water recovery rate when the rate is higher than 38%, but an opposite trend can be observed at lower water recovery rates. If sufficient waste heat is available as the heat source for MD, the integration of MD with the RO or RO-PRO process can significantly reduce SEC. If the total water recovery rate is 50% and MD accounts for 10% of the recovery when sufficient waste heat is available, the SEC values of RO, RO-PRO, RO-MD and RO-MD-PRO are found to be 2.28, 1.47, 1.75 and 0.67 kWh/m3, respectively. These critical analyses provide a road map for the future development of process integration for desalination.
Cost Profile of Membranes That Use Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity (PIMs)
Authors: Gkika Despina A. , Filiz Volkan , Rangou Sofia , Kyzas George Z. , Mitrοpoulos Athanasios C.
Published: April 2022

Assessing the financial impact of polymers of intrinsic microporosity, otherwise known as PIMs, at the lab scale has been impeded by the absence of a holistic approach that would envelop all related financial parameters, and most importantly any indirect costs, such as laboratory accidents that have been consistently neglected and undervalued in past assessments. To quantify the cost of PIMs in relation to the risks befalling a laboratory, an innovative cost evaluation approach was designed. This approach consists of three stages. Firstly, a two-fold “window of opportunity” (WO) theory is suggested, dividing the total cost profile into two segments, followed up by a qualitative risk analysis to establish the potential cost components. The last stage builds on a total cost of ownership model, incorporating the two types of WO. The total cost of ownership (TCO) approach was selected to ascertain the costs and construct the cost profile of PIMs, according to laboratory experimental data. This model was applied to the synthesis and physicochemical characterization processes. The quantitative analysis revealed that the most influential parameters for synthesis are accidents and energy costs. This is in contrast with the physicochemical characterization process, where the most important determinant is the energy cost.
Water Sorption in Glassy Polyvinylpyrrolidone-Based Polymers
Authors: Borrmann Dominik , Danzer Andreas , Sadowski Gabriele
Published: April 2022

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-based polymers are excellent stabilizers for food supplements and pharmaceutical ingredients. However, they are highly hygroscopic. This study measured and modeled the water-sorption isotherms and water-sorption kinetics in thin PVP and PVP-co-vinyl acetate (PVPVA) films. The water sorption was measured at 25 °C from 0 to 0.9 RH, which comprised glassy and rubbery states of the polymer-water system. The sorption behavior of glassy polymers differs from that in the rubbery state. The perturbed-chain statistical associating fluid theory (PC-SAFT) accurately describes the water-sorption isotherms for rubbery polymers, whereas it was combined with the non-equilibrium thermodynamics of glassy polymers (NET-GP) approach to describe the water-sorption in the glassy polymers. Combined NET-GP and PC-SAFT modeling showed excellent agreement with the experimental data. Furthermore, the transitions between the PC-SAFT modeling with and without NET-GP were in reasonable agreement with the glass transition of the polymer-water systems. Furthermore, we obtained Fickian water diffusion coefficients in PVP and in PVPVA from the measured water-sorption kinetics over a broad range of humidities. Maxwell-Stefan and Fickian water diffusion coefficients yielded a non-monotonous water concentration dependency that could be described using the free-volume theory combined with PC-SAFT and NET-GP for calculating the free volume.
Development of Chitosan/Rice Husk-Based Silica Composite Membranes for Biodiesel Purification
Authors: Saiful  , Riana Ulfa , Ramli Muliadi , Iqrammullah Muhammad , Raharjo Yanuardi , Wibisono Yusuf
Published: April 2022

Inorganic–organic composite membranes (IOCMs) are an alternative separation method developed for their straightforward process, economic benefits, and ease of scaling up. The IOCMs in this study were prepared from a biopolymer chitosan matrix and rice husk-based silica filler to remove impurities from crude biodiesel. The IOCMs were prepared through phase inversions, in which the priorly prepared silica particles were dispersed in the dope solution of chitosan. The maximum loading of the silica particles was 60%, capable of reducing the soap level, free glycerol level, and acid number from 547.9 to 12.2 mg/L, 54 to 0.041%, and 2.02 to 1.12 mgKOH/g. These reduced impurity values have satisfied the standardized quality. The chemical composition and morphology of the IOCM was characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope–energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy. The IOCM water absorption-based porosity and swelling degree were studied as well. Further investigation using isothermal modeling revealed the adsorption dependency against the Sips model equation (R2 = 0.99 and root-mean-square errors = 1.77 × 10−8). Even though regeneration is still a challenging factor in this study, the IOCM prepared from chitosan and rice husk-derived silica particles could be used in crude biodiesel purification.
Edible Clusteroluminogenic Films Obtained from Starch of Different Botanical Origins for Food Packaging and Quality Management of Frozen Foods
Authors: Lai Wing-Fu , Wong Wing-Tak
Published: April 2022

Starch is a naturally occurring material showing high potential for use in food packaging because of its low cost, natural abundance and high biodegradability. Over the years, different starch-based packaging films have been developed, but the impact of botanical sources on film performance has rarely been exploited. Efforts devoted to exploiting the role played by the clusteroluminescence of starch in food packaging are also lacking. This study fills these gaps by comparing the properties of edible starch films generated from different botanical sources (including water chestnuts, maize and potatoes) in food packaging. Such films are produced by solution casting. They are highly homogeneous, with a thickness of 55–65 μm. Variations in the botanical sources of starch have no significant impact on the color parameters (including L*, a* and b*) and morphological features of the films but affect the water vapor permeability, maximum tensile strength and elongation at break. Starch films from water chestnut show the highest percentage of transmittance, whereas those from potatoes are the opaquest. No observable change in the intensity of clusteroluminescence occurs when a packaging bag generated from starch is used to package fresh or frozen chicken breast meat; however, a remarkable decline in the intensity of luminescence is noted when the frozen meat is thawed inside the bag. Our results reveal the impact of starch sources on the performance of starch films in food packaging and demonstrate the possibility of using the clusteroluminescence of starch as an indicator to reveal the state of packaged frozen food.
Surface Modification, Functionalization and Characterization of Metallic Biomaterials
Authors: Beltrán Ana M. , Begines Belén
Published: April 2022

There is an increase in the demand for human implants for the complete or partial replacement of soft and/or hard human tissues due to different reasons, such as a higher life expectancy [...]
Experimental Investigation of Fracture Performances of SBHS500, SM570 and SM490 Steel Specimens with Notches
Authors: Liu Yan , Ikeda Shuto , Liu Yanyan , Kang Lan , Ge Hanbin
Published: April 2022

High-strength steels (HSSs) with nominal yield stress not less than 460 MPa have been increasingly employed in bridge structures. Compared with SM490 normal-strength steel (NSS), HSSs, including SBHS500 and SM570, have higher strength but lower ductility, and brittle fracture can easily occur in the HSSs members with notches. Therefore, 48 tension specimens with U-notch or V-notch made of SBHS500, SM570 and SM490 structural steels are carried out. The influences of notch depth, U-notch radius, V-notch degree and chemical composition on the mechanical and fracture performances of the steel specimens are investigated. It is concluded from experimental results that SBHS500 and SM570 HSSs with higher yield stress have a relatively higher elastic stress concentration factor, crack initiation appears earlier, and brittle fracture is more likely to occur. Compared to SM570 HSS, SBHS500 HSS has better weldability.
Hot Deformation Behavior of an As-Extruded Mg-2.5Zn-4Y Alloy Containing LPSO Phases
Authors: Wang Guoxin , Mao Pingli , Wang Zhi , Zhou Le , Wang Feng , Liu Zheng
Published: April 2022

The hot deformation and dynamic recrystallization (DRX) characteristics of an as-extruded Mg-2.5Zn-4Y alloy containing long-period stacking ordered (LPSO) phases were investigated using a Gleeble 3500 thermal simulator at temperatures (300–400 °C) and strain rates (0.001–1 s−1). The results revealed that low flow stress corresponded to a high temperature and a low strain rate. An increase in the temperature of deformation caused an increase in the amount of dynamic recrystallization. Additionally, as the strain rate decreased at a given deformation temperature, dislocations were less likely to cause pile-up and dynamic recrystallization was more appropriate, resulting in a lower stress value. Kink deformation was clearly minimized as the number of dynamic recrystallizations increased. The test alloy’s activation energy value was determined as 212.144 kJ/mol.
Statistical Data-Driven Model for Hardness Prediction in Austempered Ductile Irons
Authors: Rodríguez-Rosales Nelly Abigaíl , Montes-González Félix Alan , Gómez-Casas Oziel , Gómez-Casas Josué , Galindo-Valdés Jesús Salvador , Ortiz-Cuellar Juan Carlos , Martínez-Villafañe Jesús Fernando , García-Navarro Daniel , Muñiz-Valdez Carlos Rodrigo
Published: April 2022

This research evaluates the effect of temperature and time austempering on microstructural characteristics and hardness of ductile iron, validating the results by means of a statistical method for hardness prediction. Ductile iron was subjected to austenitization at 950 °C for 120 min and then to austempering heat treatment in a salt bath at temperatures of 290, 320, 350 and 380 °C for 30, 60, 90 and 120 min. By increasing austempering temperature, a higher content of carbon-rich austenite was obtained, and the morphology of the thin acicular ferrite needles produced at 290 °C turned completely feathery at 350 and 380 °C. A thickening of acicular ferrite needles was also observed as austempering time increased. An inversely proportional behavior of hardness values was thus obtained, which was validated through data analysis, statistical tools and a regression model taking temperature and time austempering as input variables and hardness as the output variable, which achieved a correlation among variables of about 97%. The proposal of a mathematical model for the prediction of hardness in austempered ductile iron represents a numerical approximation which validates the experimental results at 95.20%.
A Comparative Study on Mechanical and Corrosion Behaviours of α/(α + β) Mg-Li Alloys Subjected to Ultrasonic Nanocrystal Surface Modification
Authors: Zou Yun , Liu Shuhao , Wang Qilong , Li Yang
Published: April 2022

Ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (UNSM) was applied to hot-rolled Mg-Li alloys (LAE361 and LA106). The microstructure, mechanical properties, deformation mechanisms, and corrosion resistance properties of these alloys after UNSM treatment were systematically studied. Significant improvement in surface hardness and decrease in surface roughness were achieved by UNSM treatment. Meanwhile, the basal texture intensity of the Mg-Li alloys reduced significantly, and several deformation twins appeared on the surface layer. The α phase of the surface layer underwent twin deformation and basal plane slip. The fibre textures in the β phase of LA106 Mg-Li alloy changed from γ and η to α and ε, which mainly resulted in the dislocation slip. More importantly, UNSM treatment exhibited enhanced strength and improved plasticity of LAE361 and LA106 Mg-Li alloys. The corrosion current density of LAE361 Mg-Li alloy reduced approximately 29.3% by UNSM treatment, while it increased the corrosion current density of LA106 Mg-Li alloy by 189.7%. These studies show that the application of UNSM to improve the corrosion resistance of duplex phases of LA106 Mg-Li alloy needs further investigation.
Primary Study on Medium and Low Carbon Ferromanganese Production by Blowing CO2-O2 Mixtures in Converter
Authors: Han Yu , Li Cheng , Wang Haijuan
Published: April 2022

The production of medium- and low-carbon ferromanganese (M-LCFeMn) using the converter method has not been industrialized to date in China due to the high manganese loss and serious erosion of the furnace lining. To solve the above problems and to improve the refining technology of M-LCFeMn, the introduction of CO2 gas into the traditional converter process is proposed. In this study, the oxidation behavior of C and Mn in various conditions was analyzed by blowing different proportions of CO2-O2 mixed gas into the high-carbon ferromanganese (HCFeMn) melt. The results showed that it is feasible to make M-CFeMn by blowing CO2-O2 mixtures, and the Mn loss can be effectively reduced during the decarburization process. It is considered that when the proportion of CO2 reaches 25%, the mixed gas has the best effect on the decarburization and manganese preservation under current experimental situation. Two hypotheses and corresponding rate formulas of decarburization kinetics by using pure oxygen are put forward, and the effect of CO2 on the kinetics of decarburization was studied according to different hypotheses.
Electrochemical Behavior and Passive Film Properties of Hastelloy C22 Alloy, Laser-Cladding C22 Coating, and Ti–6Al–4V Alloy in Sulfuric Acid Dew-Point Corrosion Environment
Authors: Zheng Chao , Liu Zongde , Liu Quanbing , Kong Yao , Guo Shengyang , Liu Congcong
Published: April 2022

The electrochemical behavior and passive film properties of Hastelloy C22 alloy, laser-cladding C22 coating, and Ti–6Al–4V alloy in sulfuric acid dew-point corrosion environment were investigated through a combination of electrochemical measurements and surface analyses. The C22 alloy and laser-cladding C22 coating exhibited similar passivation and repassivation behavior without pitting corrosion, resulting from a similar passive film with a bilayer structure consisting of a Cr2O3-dominated compact inner layer and a porous outer layer containing oxides of Mo and hydroxides of Ni and Cr. The slightly poorer corrosion resistance and higher sensitivity to localized corrosion exhibited by the C22 coating were attributed to the microscale heterogeneity of the passive film resulting from the element segregation in the microstructure introduced by the laser-cladding process. The corrosion of the TC4 alloy performed as the preference dissolution of the β phase. Compared to the C22 alloy and C22 coating, the TC4 alloy exhibited more stable passivation behavior but poorer corrosion resistance, which is attributed to a compact but less protective single-layer passive film consisting of oxides of Ti and Al. An increase in temperature degrades passive film stability and accelerates the charge transfer process.
Oxide Free Wire Arc Sprayed Coatings—An Avenue to Enhanced Adhesive Tensile Strength
Authors: Rodriguez Diaz Manuel , Szafarska Maik , Gustus René , Möhwald Kai , Maier Hans Jürgen
Published: April 2022

Conventionally, thermal spraying processes are almost exclusively carried out in an air atmosphere. This results in oxidation of the particles upon thermal spraying, and thus, the interfaces of the splats within the coating are oxidized as well. Hence, a full material bond strength cannot be established. To overcome this issue, a mixture of monosilane and nitrogen was employed in the present study as the atomising and environment gas. With this approach, an oxygen partial pressure corresponding to an extreme-high vacuum was established in the environment and oxide-free coatings could be realized. It is shown that the oxide-free particles have an improved substrate wetting behaviour, which drastically increases the adhesive tensile strength of the wire arc sprayed copper coatings. Moreover, the altered deposition conditions also led to a significant reduction of the coating porosity.
Microstructure Evolution and Properties of β-TCP/Mg-Zn-Ca Biocomposite Processed by Hot Extrusion Combined with Multi-Pass ECAP
Authors: Sun Xiaohao , Su Yue , Huang Yan , Chen Minfang , Liu Debao
Published: April 2022

To further improve the comprehensive performance of Mg-based alloy, hot extrusion combined with multi-pass equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) was applied to process Mg-3 wt%Zn-0.2 wt%Ca alloy and 1 wt%β-TCP/Mg-3 wt%Zn-0.2 wt%Ca biocomposites. The microstructure evolution, mechanical properties, corrosion behavior, and cell biocompatibility of the experimental specimens were systematically investigated. The average grain size of 13.4 ± 0.6 μm in MgZnCa alloy and 9.6 ± 0.3 μm in composites materials can be achieved by six ECAP passes. The uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of 388.4 ± 7.3 MPa and the strain at failure of 14.3 ± 1.5% were confirmed in MgZnCa alloy, while the UCS of 405.3 ± 7.4 MPa and the strain at failure of 9.8 ± 1.9% were achieved by the addition of β-TCP after six ECAP passes. In spite of different compositions, the minimum corrosion rate of 0.895 mm·Y−1 and 1.117 mm·Y−1 can be achieved by two ECAP passes at 593 K. The cytocompatibility evaluation revealed that the experimental materials processed by six ECAP passes had no significant cytotoxicity to L929 cells, and the addition of β-TCP improved the cytocompatibility.
High-Cycle Fatigue Behavior and Fatigue Strength Prediction of Differently Heat-Treated 35CrMo Steels
Authors: Yang Mengqi , Gao Chong , Pang Jianchao , Li Shouxin , Hu Dejiang , Li Xiaowu , Zhang Zhefeng
Published: April 2022

In order to obtain the optimum fatigue performance, 35CrMo steel was processed by different heat treatment procedures. The microstructure, tensile properties, fatigue properties, and fatigue cracking mechanisms were compared and analyzed. The results show that fatigue strength and yield strength slowly increase at first and then rapidly decrease with the increase of tempering temperature, and both reach the maximum values at a tempering temperature of 200 °C. The yield strength affects the ratio of crack initiation site, fatigue strength coefficient, and fatigue strength exponent to a certain extent. Based on Basquin equation and fatigue crack initiation mechanism, a fatigue strength prediction method for 35CrMo steel was established.
Low-Temperature Reactive Sintered Porous Mg-Al-Zn Alloy Foams
Authors: Agbedor Solomon-Oshioke , Yang Donghui , Chen Jianqing , Wang Lei , Wu Hong
Published: April 2022

By using carbamide granules as the space holder, Mg alloy foams with interconnected pore structures were synthesized by reactive sintering of a mixture of Mg, Al and Zn powders. The effect of Zn/Al on the microstructural evolution and compressive strength of porous Mg-9Al-xZn (x = 1, 5) alloy foams was investigated. The phase diagram simulation approach was used to determine the sintering temperature. The analysis results show that the formation of binary secondary phases or intermetallic compounds is a crucial factor in achieving bonding strength for the porous Mg alloy foams. The intermetallic compounds were formed by solid-state diffusion between the metal powder elements. Mg17Al12 intermetallics was the most stable compound formed in the cell walls of porous Mg alloy foams. The addition of Zn influences the solubility and stability of the intermetallic compound. Thermodynamic calculations show that Mg17Al12 was preferentially formed in the cell walls owing to its high negative enthalpy energy. Moreover, various metastable transition phases may exist in the microstructures, especially in the porous Mg-9Al-5Zn alloy foam. The intermetallic phases act as reinforcing phases, combined with grain refinement, significantly increasing the strength of the foam. At the given relative density of 0.42, the porous Mg-9Al-5Zn alloy foam exhibits the highest yield strength of 9.0 MPa, which is 23% higher than the strength of the porous Mg-9Al-1Zn alloy foam.
Effect of Micro-Alloyed/Alloyed Elements on Microstructure and Properties of Fe-Mn-Al-C Lightweight Steel
Authors: Ren Xiqiang , Li Yungang , Qi Yanfei , Wang Chenghao
Published: April 2022

In the 14th Five Year Plan, China clearly proposes to develop the automobile strategic industry, reduce the carbon emission intensity, and formulates the carbon emission peak plan by 2030. As the automobile is the most frequently used vehicle, weight reduction can achieve the purpose of energy-saving and emission reduction and help to achieve the peak of carbon emissions as soon as possible. The lightweight automobile steel is the research hotspot in the future, and the lightweight steel has attracted much attention in the automobile manufacturing industry. Fe-Mn-Al-C lightweight steel, with its high strength, good oxidation resistance at high temperatures, good fatigue performance, high elongation, and good energy absorption during a collision, etc., has attracted the attention of researchers in the field of automotive steel. It is found that the addition of micro-alloyed/alloyed elements to Fe-Mn-Al-C lightweight steel is of great significance to improve its properties. In this paper, the effects of micro-alloyed elements (Nb and V) and alloy elements (Si, Cr, and Cu) on the microstructure, properties, and κ-carbide of Fe-Mn-Al-C lightweight steel were reviewed. The main ways of improving the properties of Fe-Mn-Al-C lightweight steel by micro-alloyed/alloyed elements were summarized and the existing problems were analyzed to provide a reference for future research.
A Strategic Design Route to Find a Depleted Uranium High-Entropy Alloy with Great Strength
Authors: Zhang Weiran , Li Yasong , Liaw Peter , Zhang Yong
Published: April 2022

The empirical parameters of mixing enthalpy (ΔHmix), mixing entropy (ΔSmix), atomic radius difference (δ), valence electron concentration (VEC), etc., are used in this study to design a depleted uranium high-entropy alloy (HEA). X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to assess the phase composition. Compression and hardness tests were conducted to select alloy constituents with outstanding mechanical properties. Based on the experimental results, the empirical criteria of HEAs are an effective means to develop depleted uranium high-entropy alloys (DUHEAs). Finally, we created UNb0.5Zr0.5Mo0.5 and UNb0.5Zr0.5Ti0.2Mo0.2 HEAs with outstanding all-round characteristics. Both alloys were composed of a single BCC structure. The hardness and strength of UNb0.5Zr0.5Mo0.5 and UNb0.5Zr0.5Ti0.2Mo0.2 were 305 HB and 1452 MPa, and 297 HB and 1157 MPa, respectively.
Identification of Metabolomic Biomarkers of Long-Term Stress Using NMR Spectroscopy in a Diving Duck
Authors: Perera Asha , Soos Catherine , Machin Karen
Published: April 2022

Human-induced environmental changes that act as long-term stressors pose significant impacts on wildlife health. Energy required for maintenance or other functions may be re-routed towards coping with stressors, ultimately resulting in fluctuations in metabolite levels associated with energy metabolism. While metabolomics approaches are used increasingly to study environmental stressors, its use in studying stress in birds is in its infancy. We implanted captive lesser scaup (Aythya affinis) with either a biodegradable corticosterone (CORT) pellet to mimic the effects of a prolonged stressor or a placebo pellet. 1D 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was performed on serum samples collected over 20 days after implant surgery. We hypothesized that CORT pellet-induced physiological stress would alter energy metabolism and result in distinct metabolite profiles in ducks compared with placebo (control). Quantitative targeted metabolite analysis revealed that metabolites related to energy metabolism: glucose, formate, lactate, glutamine, 3-hydroxybutyrate, ethanolamine, indole-3- acetate, and threonine differentiated ducks with higher circulatory CORT from controls on day 2. These metabolites function as substrates or intermediates in metabolic pathways related to energy production affected by elevated serum CORT. The use of metabolomics shows promise as a novel tool to identify and characterize physiological responses to stressors in wild birds.
TRACES: A Lightweight Browser for Liquid Chromatography–Multiple Reaction Monitoring–Mass Spectrometry Chromatograms
Authors: Kita Yoshihiro , Tokuoka Suzumi M. , Oda Yoshiya , Shimizu Takao
Published: April 2022

In targeted metabolomic analysis using liquid chromatography–multiple reaction monitoring–mass spectrometry (LC-MRM-MS), hundreds of MRMs are performed in a single run, yielding a large dataset containing thousands of chromatographic peaks. Automation tools for processing large MRM datasets have been reported, but a visual review of chromatograms is still critical, as real samples with biological matrices often cause complex chromatographic patterns owing to non-specific, insufficiently separated, isomeric, and isotopic components. Herein, we report the development of new software, TRACES, a lightweight chromatogram browser for MRM-based targeted LC-MS analysis. TRACES provides rapid access to all MRM chromatograms in a dataset, allowing users to start ad hoc data browsing without preparations such as loading compound libraries. As a special function of the software, we implemented a chromatogram-level deisotoping function that facilitates the identification of regions potentially affected by isotopic signals. Using MRM libraries containing precursor and product formulae, the algorithm reveals all possible isotopic interferences in the dataset and generates deisotoped chromatograms. To validate the deisotoping function in real applications, we analyzed mouse tissue phospholipids in which isotopic interference by molecules with different fatty-acyl unsaturation levels is known. TRACES successfully removed isotopic signals within the MRM chromatograms, helping users avoid inappropriate regions for integration.