bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Habitat Significantly Affect CWD Decomposition but No Home-Field Advantage of the Decomposition Found in a Subtropical Forest, China
Authors: Wang Hankun , Zhang Ling , Deng Wenping , Liu Junping , Wu Chunsheng , Zhang Yi , Liu Yuanqiu
Published: June 2022

The home-field advantage (HFA) effect has been reported to occur in coarse woody debris (CWD) and litter. It is thought that the HFA effect may be due to the specialization of decomposers in their original habitats. However, the relative contribution of microorganisms, particularly fungi and bacteria, to deadwood decomposition is unclear because of differences in their functional at-tributes and carbon requirements, and the microorganisms that drive the HFA effect of deadwood are also unclear. Here, we analysed a dataset of microbial PLFA and substrate properties collected from the soil and CWD of two subtropical trees, Cryptomeria japonica and Platycarya strobilacea, from forests dominated by one or the other of the two species, with both species present in the forests. Our results showed that habitat and tree types all significantly affected CWD respiration rates, the CWD respiration rates were significantly higher in the deciduous broadleaf forests (DBF) than in the coniferous forest (CF) regardless of tree types, but no a large HFA of CWD decomposition found (HFA index was 4.75). Most biomarkers indicated bacteria and fungi were more abundant in the DBF than in the CF, and the concentration of microbial PLFAs was higher in Platycarya strobilacea than in Cryptomeria japonica. In addition, the relative abundance of fungi and soil B/F were remarkably positively correlated with CWD respiration, indicating that fungi may be the primary decomposers of CWD. In conclusion, our work highlights the importance of interactions between the three primary drivers (environment, substrate quality and microbes) on CWD decomposition.
The Significance of Adaptation and Coping with Disease among Patients with Diagnosed Gynaecological Cancer in the Context of Disease Acceptance
Authors: Wieder-Huszla Sylwia , Owsianowska Joanna , Chudecka-Głaz Anita , Branecka-Woźniak Dorota , Jurczak Anna
Published: June 2022

Uterine/endometrial and ovarian tumours are among the most common gynaecological cancers. Adaptation to cancer encompasses a variety of complex behavioural, cognitive, and emotional processes. The purpose of mental adaptation is to alleviate emotional discomfort and regain mental stability. The aim of the study was to assess the influence of adaptation and coping with gynaecological cancer on the level of disease acceptance among the studied women. The study included 81 patients diagnosed with gynaecological cancer. Mental adaptation to cancer was measured using the Min-Mac scale, disease acceptance was measured using the AIS and the level of adaptation was measured using the CAPS. The average AIS score was 26.65 ± 8.85 points. Adaptation and coping methods did not vary significantly depending on the diagnosed type of cancer. The constructive style of fighting the disease prevailed (45.11 ± 6.01). The AIS scores correlated significantly and positively with the intensity of the constructive style of mental adaptation, and negatively with the intensity of the destructive style. The studied group of patients with gynaecological cancer displayed a moderate level of disease acceptance, the constructive style of adaptation was the most prevalent, and the location of the cancer did not have an effect on coping mechanisms.
Effect of a Self-Assembly Peptide on Surface Roughness and Hardness of Bleached Enamel
Authors: Magalhães Gabriela de A. P. , Fraga May Anny A , de Souza Araújo Isaac J. , Pacheco Rafael R. , Correr Américo B. , Puppin-Rontani Regina M.
Published: June 2022

After bleaching, enamel surfaces are damaged, contributing to erosion and tooth sensitivity. Although fluoride is used after bleaching to try and revert alterations, it is not capable of repairing tooth structure. This study compared the effect of a self-assembly peptide (P11-4), with and without fluoride, and sodium fluoride (NaF 2%) on the Knoop microhardness (KHN) and surface roughness (Ra (μm)) of bleached enamel with an in-office bleaching regimen. Enamel blocks of bovine teeth (5 × 5 × 2 mm) with standardized surface hardness were bleached with 35% carbamide peroxide, following the manufacturer’s instructions. The teeth were randomly divided into the following groups (n = 7) according to post-bleaching treatment: no treatment (negative control) (C-); 2% NaF (NaF); Curodont™ Repair (Repair); and Curodont™ Protect (Protect). Specimens were stored in artificial saliva at 37 °C. To evaluate the effect of the post-bleaching treatments, KHN and Ra were measured before bleaching (baseline) and 24 h and 7 days after bleaching. Data were submitted to repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni tests (α = 0.05). There were significant interactions between the study factors (p = 0.001). After 7 days, Repair (572.50 ± 79.04) and Protect (583.00 ± 74.76) specimens showed increased surface KHN, with values higher than the NaF (465.50 ± 41.50) and C- (475.22 ± 58.95) baseline values. There was no significant difference in KHN at 24 h among groups (p = 0.587). At 24 h after bleaching, Repair was significantly different from all groups (p < 0.05). Repair showed the lowest Ra (μm) values (0.133 ± 0.035). After seven days, there was no significant difference in Ra values among groups when compared to the baseline. The use of P11-4-based materials after bleaching resulted in the fastest recovery to baseline enamel properties.
Study on the Polycrystalline Mechanism of Polycrystalline Diamond Synthesized from Graphite by Direct Detonation Method
Authors: Shang Shi-Yuan , Tong Yi , Wang Zhi-Chao , Huang Feng-Lei
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a polycrystalline diamond was synthesized by the direct detonation method using graphite as the carbon source. By comparing the numbers of the obtained diamond particles and the original graphite particles, it was found that when the graphite phase transformed into the polycrystalline diamond during the detonation process, a single graphite particle would form multiple diamond nuclei, and the nuclei would grow simultaneously to form polycrystals. Accordingly, a validation experiment was designed, which added different ratios of inert additives while keeping the ratio of graphite to hexogen (RDX) unchanged. It was found that increasing the ratio of inert additives within a certain range could increase the grain size of a polycrystalline diamond, which is consistent with the obtained polycrystalline mechanism.
Picosecond Bessel Beam Fabricated Pure, Gold-Coated Silver Nanostructures for Trace-Level Sensing of Multiple Explosives and Hazardous Molecules
Authors: Banerjee Dipanjan , Akkanaboina Mangababu , Ghosh Subhasree , Soma Venugopal Rao
Published: June 2022

A zeroth-order, non-diffracting Bessel beam, generated by picosecond laser pulses (1064 nm, 10 Hz, 30 ps) through an axicon, was utilized to perform pulse energy-dependent (12 mJ, 16 mJ, 20 mJ, 24 mJ) laser ablation of silver (Ag) substrates in air. The fabrication resulted in finger-like Ag nanostructures (NSs) in the sub-200 nm domain and obtained structures were characterized using the FESEM and AFM techniques. Subsequently, we employed those Ag NSs in surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) studies achieving promising sensing results towards trace-level detection of six different hazardous materials (explosive molecules of picric acid (PA) and ammonium nitrate (AN), a pesticide thiram (TH) and the dye molecules of Methylene Blue (MB), Malachite Green (MG), and Nile Blue (NB)) along with a biomolecule (hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL)). The remarkably superior plasmonic behaviour exhibited by the AgNS corresponding to 16 mJ pulse ablation energy was further explored. To accomplish a real-time application-oriented understanding, time-dependent studies were performed utilizing the AgNS prepared with 16 mJ and TH molecule by collecting the SERS data periodically for up to 120 days. The coated AgNSs were prepared with optimized gold (Au) deposition, accomplishing a much lower trace detection in the case of thiram (~50 pM compared to ~50 nM achieved prior to the coating) as well as superior EF up to ~108 (~106 before Au coating). Additionally, these substrates have demonstrated superior stability compared to those obtained before Au coating.
Comparative Evaluation of Tensile Bond Strength of Poly Ether Ether Ketone (PEEK) and Zirconia Copings Using Resin Cement with or without Adhesive: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Kakkad Nimisha , Yadav Naveen S. , Hazari Puja , Narwani Shweta , Somkuwar Kirti , Basha Sakeenabi , Verma Varsha , Arora Suraj , Aldowah Omir , Heboyan Artak , Karobari Mohmed Isaqali
Published: June 2022

This in vitro research aimed to evaluate the Tensile Bond Strength of Poly Ether Ether Ketone and Zirconia copings using resin cement with or without Visio.link adhesive. From commercially available Zirconia and PEEK, blocks were machined milled using (CAD)/(CAM) to obtain 20 Zirconia and 20 PEEK copings. These specimens were sandblasted using 110 μm of alumina. The two main groups (20 Zirconia and 20 PEEK copings) were divided further into 4 subgroups, GROUP 1 (n = 10) PEEK substructure with self-adhesive resin cement without pretreatment, and GROUP 2 (n = 10) PEEK substructure with self-adhesive resin cement pre-treated with Visio.link adhesive. GROUP 3 (n = 10) Zirconia copings with self-adhesive resin cement without pretreatment. GROUP 4 (n = 10) Zirconia copings with self-adhesive resin cement pre-treated with Visio.link adhesive. Universal testing machine was used to evaluate the tensile bond strength of these copings. The results were analyzed using SPSS software Version 25.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). One-way ANOVA and independent t-test were used to compare the mean scores. Statistically significant increase was observed in Tensile Bond Strength of samples when Visio.link adhesive was used. Tensile Bond Strength of PEEK copings and Zirconia copings with Visio.link adhesive is considerably greater than PEEK copings and Zirconia copings without adhesive. The mean Tensile Bond Strength of Zirconia (with or without adhesive) is less as compared to Tensile Bond Strength of PEEK (with or without adhesive), but the difference is not statistically significant.
Dual-Metal Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Derived Highly Ordered Hierarchical Nanoarrays on Self-Supported Carbon Fiber for Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Du Xi , Zhang Wenjun , Zhang Maliang , Ji Yanhong , Su Kunmei , Li Zhenhuan
Published: June 2022

The construction of highly ordered hierarchical nanoarrays is crucial for obtaining effective transition metal carbon nanomaterial electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in water splitting. Herein, we adopted a Co metal zeolitic imidazolate framework (Co-ZIF) as a precursor by ion-exchange/etching reaction with Fe(NO3)3 to obtain hierarchical N-doped Co-Fe layered double hydroxide (CoFe-LDH) in situ generated in Co-ZIF nanoarrays based on a self-supported carbon cloth (CC) substrate noted as CoFe-LDH@Co-ZIF@CC. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of these species and their highly ordered self-supported nanoarray structure, the catalytic active sites were fully exposed and highly protected in alkaline electrolyte, which significantly promoted electron transport and improved electrochemical performance. The CoFe-LDH@Co-ZIF@CC exhibited the low overpotentials of about 225 and 319 mV at 10 and 100 mA cm−2 with a small Tafel slope of 81.8 mV dec−1 recorded in a 1.0 M KOH electrolyte. In addition, it also showed a long-term durability without obvious decay after 30 h. Therefore, its remarkable OER activity demonstrates this material’s promising application in the green hydrogen energy industry.
Effect of Interface Transition Zone and Coarse Aggregate on Microscopic Diffusion Behavior of Chloride Ion
Authors: Liu Jing , Chen Xuandong , Rong Hua , Yu Aiping , Ming Yang , Li Ke
Published: June 2022

Concrete is a multiphase composite material composed of coarse aggregate, cement mortar, and interface transition zone (ITZ). It is of great significance to study the effect of ITZ and coarse aggregate on chloride microscopic diffusion behavior for predicting the service life of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. By introducing the random distribution function, a random coarse aggregate model considering the randomness of the thickness of the ITZ was established. Furthermore, a two-dimensional (2D) chloride ion diffusion mesoscopic model was developed by specifying different diffusion properties for different phase materials of concrete. Moreover, the effects of coarse aggregate rate, ITZ thickness, and ITZ diffusion property on chloride ion diffusion behavior were investigated in this paper. The research showed that the aggregate has hindrance and agglomeration action on chloride ion diffusion. Although the volume content of the ITZ was very small, less than 0.2% of the total volume of concrete, the effect of the ITZ on the chloride diffusion in concrete cannot be ignored. More importantly, the mechanism of promoting chloride diffusion in the ITZ was revealed through the chloride diffusion trajectory. The research revealed the transmission mechanism of chloride ions in the meso-structure of concrete and provides theoretical support for the design of RC structures in coastal areas.
The Strange Case of the Nuragic Offerers Bronze Statuettes: A Multi-Analytical Study
Authors: Brunetti Antonio , Porcaro Marta , Lins Sergio , di Gennaro Francesco , Anzalone Rosario Maria , Mineo Mario , Depalmas Anna
Published: June 2022

The Nuragic civilization (Sardinia, Italy, XVIII–VIII B.C) developed a flourishing bronze metallurgy with strong connections with other civilizations from the Mediterranean basin. Within the large bronze production, there are some peculiar representations of human figures, known in the archaeological environment of Sardinia as bronzetti, depicting warriors, priests, and offerers. In this paper, an interesting couple of Nuragic statuettes representing offerers, one from the Pigorini Museum in Rome and another from the Musei Reali in Turin, were analyzed. They have been investigated with X-ray fluorescence integrated with Monte Carlo simulations (XRF-MC). The combined methodology provides more accurate results, ranging from the structural characterization to the identification of the corrosion layers to the estimation of the composition of the alloy of the artifact. One of the most striking results regards the heads of the offerers: both heads are covered with a thick iron-based layer, even though the whole artifacts are made of a copper alloy. To understand the reason behind this peculiar corrosion patina, several hypotheses have been considered, including the possibility that these iron mineralizations are the consequence of an ancient superficial treatment, intending to confer a chromatic effect on the figurine’s head.
The Role of Zr on Monoclinic and Orthorhombic HfxZryO2 Systems: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Pavoni Eleonora , Mohebbi Elaheh , Stipa Pierluigi , Mencarelli Davide , Pierantoni Luca , Laudadio Emiliano
Published: June 2022

HfO2 shows different polymorphs, including monoclinic and orthorhombic ones, that exhibit singular properties. Moreover, the character of HfO2 is also influenced by the Zr atoms as a doping agent. Here, an extensive study of the monoclinic P21/c and the orthorhombic Pca21 polymorphs of HfO2, Hf0.75Zr0.25O2, and Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 is reported. For all six systems, density functional theory (DFT) methods based on generalized gradient approximations (GGAs) were first used; then the GGA + U method was settled and calibrated to describe the electrical and optical properties of polymorphs and the responses to the oxygen vacancies. Zr had different effects in relation to the polymorph; moreover, the amount of Zr led to important differences in the optical properties of the Pca21 polymorph. Finally, oxygen vacancies were investigated, showing an important modulation of the properties of HfxZryO2 nanostructures. The combined GGA and GGA + U methods adopted in this work generate a reasonable prediction of the physicochemical properties of o- and m-HfxZryO2, identifying the effects of doping phenomena.
Validity of a Novel Digitally Enhanced Skills Training Station for Freehand Distal Interlocking
Authors: Pastor Torsten , Pastor Tatjana , Kastner Philipp , Souleiman Firas , Knobe Matthias , Gueorguiev Boyko , Windolf Markus , Buschbaum Jan
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives: Freehand distal interlocking of intramedullary nails is technically demanding and prone to handling issues. It requires precise placement of a screw through the nail under fluoroscopy guidance and can result in a time consuming and radiation expensive procedure. Dedicated training could help overcome these problems. The aim of this study was to assess construct and face validity of new Digitally Enhanced Hands-On Surgical Training (DEHST) concept and device for training of distal interlocking of intramedullary nails. Materials and Methods: Twenty-nine novices and twenty-four expert surgeons performed interlocking on a DEHST device. Construct validity was evaluated by comparing captured performance metrics—number of X-rays, nail hole roundness, drill tip position and drill hole accuracy—between experts and novices. Face validity was evaluated with a questionnaire concerning training potential and quality of simulated reality using a 7-point Likert scale. Results: Face validity: mean realism of the training device was rated 6.3 (range 4–7). Training potential and need for distal interlocking training were both rated with a mean of 6.5 (range 5–7), with no significant differences between experts and novices, p ≥ 0.234. All participants (100%) stated that the device is useful for procedural training of distal nail interlocking, 96% wanted to have it at their institution and 98% would recommend it to colleagues. Construct validity: total number of X-rays was significantly higher for novices (20.9 ± 6.4 versus 15.5 ± 5.3, p = 0.003). Success rate (ratio of hit and miss attempts) was significantly higher for experts (novices hit: n = 15; 55.6%; experts hit: n = 19; 83%, p = 0.040). Conclusion: The evaluated training device for distal interlocking of intramedullary nails yielded high scores in terms of training capability and realism. Furthermore, construct validity was proven by reliably discriminating between experts and novices. Participants indicate high further training potential as the device may be easily adapted to other surgical tasks.
Validation Study on Automated Sleep Stage Scoring Using a Deep Learning Algorithm
Authors: Cho Jae Hoon , Choi Ji Ho , Moon Ji Eun , Lee Young Jun , Lee Ho Dong , Ha Tae Kyoung
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives: Polysomnography is manually scored by sleep experts. However, manual scoring is a time-consuming and labor-intensive task. The goal of this study was to verify the accuracy of automated sleep-stage scoring based on a deep learning algorithm compared to manual sleep-stage scoring. Materials and Methods: A total of 602 polysomnography datasets from subjects (Male:Female = 397:205) aged 19 to 65 years (mean age, 43.8, standard deviation = 12.2) were included in the study. The performance of the proposed model was evaluated based on kappa value and bootstrapped point-estimate of median percent agreement with a 95% bootstrap confidence interval and R = 1000. The proposed model was trained using 482 datasets and validated using 48 datasets. For testing, 72 datasets were selected randomly. Results: The proposed model exhibited good concordance rates with manual scoring for stages W (94%), N1 (83.9%), N2 (89%), N3 (92%), and R (93%). The average kappa value was 0.84. For the bootstrap method, high overall agreement between the automated deep learning algorithm and manual scoring was observed in stages W (98%), N1 (94%), N2 (92%), N3 (99%), and R (98%) and total (96%). Conclusions: Automated sleep-stage scoring using the proposed model may be a reliable method for sleep-stage classification.
The Use of near Infra-Red Radiation Imaging after Injection of Indocyanine Green (NIR–ICG) during Laparoscopic Treatment of Benign Gynecologic Conditions: Towards Minimalized Surgery. A Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Raffone Antonio , Raimondo Diego , Oliviero Alessia , Raspollini Arianna , Travaglino Antonio , Torella Marco , Riemma Gaetano , La Verde Marco , De Franciscis Pasquale , Casadio Paolo , Seracchioli Renato , Mollo Antonio
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives: To assess the use of near infrared radiation imaging after injection of indocyanine green (NIR–ICG) during laparoscopic treatment of benign gynecologic conditions. Materials and Methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed searching 7 electronic databases from their inception to March 2022 for all studies which assessed the use of NIR–ICG during laparoscopic treatment of benign gynecological conditions. Results: 16 studies (1 randomized within subject clinical trial and 15 observational studies) with 416 women were included. Thirteen studies assessed patients with endometriosis, and 3 studies assessed non-endometriosis patients. In endometriosis patients, NIR–ICG use appeared to be a safe tool for improving the visualization of endometriotic lesions and ureters, the surgical decision-making process with the assessment of ureteral perfusion after conservative surgery and the intraoperative assessment of bowel perfusion during recto-sigmoid endometriosis nodule surgery. In non-endometriosis patients, NIR–ICG use appeared to be a safe tool for evaluating vascular perfusion of the vaginal cuff during total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) and robotic-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy (RATLH), and intraoperative assessment of ovarian perfusion in adnexal torsion. Conclusions: NIR–ICG appeared to be a useful tool for enhancing laparoscopic treatment of some benign gynecologic conditions and for moving from minimally invasive surgery to minimalized surgery. In particular, it might improve treatment of endometriosis (with particular regard to deep infiltrating endometriosis), benign diseases requiring TLH and RATLH and adnexal torsion. However, although preliminary findings appear promising, further investigation with well-designed larger studies is needed.
Platelet-Membrane-Encapsulated Carvedilol with Improved Targeting Ability for Relieving Myocardial Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Zhou Tingting , Yang Xuechao , Wang Tianyi , Xu Mingming , Huang Zhanghao , Yu Runze , Jiang Yi , Zhou Youlang , Shi Jiahai
Published: June 2022

In recent years, cell membrane drug delivery systems have received increasing attention. However, drug-loaded membrane delivery systems targeting therapy in myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury (MIRI) have been relatively rarely studied. The purpose of this study was to explore the protective effect of platelet-membrane-encapsulated Carvedilol on MIRI. We extracted platelets from the blood of adult SD rats and prepared platelet membrane vesicles (PMVs). Carvedilol, a nonselective β-blocker, was encapsulated into the PMVs. In order to determine the best encapsulation rate and drug-loading rate, three different concentrations of Carvedilol in low, medium, and high amounts were fused to the PMVs in different volume ratios (drugs/PMVs at 2:1, 1:1, 1:2, and 4:1) for determining the optimum concentration and volume ratio. By comparing other delivery methods, including abdominal injection and intravenous administration, the efficacy of PMVs-encapsulated drug-targeted delivery treatment was observed. The PMVs have the ability to target ischemic-damaged myocardial tissue, and the concentration and volume ratio at the optimum encapsulation rate and the drug-loading rate are 0.5 mg and 1:1. We verified that PMVs@Carvedilol had better therapeutic effects compared to other treatment groups, and immunofluorescence observation showed a significant improvement in the apoptosis indicators and infarction area of myocardial cells. Targeted administration of PMVs@Carvedilol may be a promising treatment for myocardial reperfusion injury, as it significantly improves postinjury cardiac function and increases drug utilization compared to other delivery methods.
Simulation and Experimental Study on Jet Velocity of Zr-Based Amorphous Alloy Liner
Authors: Cui Ping , Gao Xinbao , Xu Jingqing , Wen Jian , Cui Liang , Li Chaowang , Yang Yanfeng
Published: June 2022

Zr-based amorphous alloy is a new energetic material that has been closely monitored and extensively studied for the design of highly effective shaped charge warheads in recent years. In order to accurately determine the motion parameters of shaped charge jets during the detonation-driven formation process of Zr-based amorphous alloy liners, we prepared conical ZrCuNiAlAg liners by vacuum die casting and supercooled liquid high-rheological-rate formation processes. Based on jet-formation numerical simulation, pulsed X-ray imaging and copper foil target velocity measuring tests were conducted to identify the variation trend of the jet velocity of Zr-based amorphous alloy liners with time. The jet velocities at typical moments in the free flight stage were verified. The research results showed that Zr-based amorphous alloy liners could produce solid jets, whose velocity was in gradient descent from the head to the tail, and that the jet’s head velocity peaked at 12 μs and then slowly decreased with time. The average velocities measured by the X-ray imaging and copper foil target tests were 6913 m/s and 7177 m/s, respectively, and both of them were in good agreement with the simulation results, verifying the accuracy of the numerical simulation model for jet formation. The formation processes of shaped charge liners were found to affect the mechanical properties of the material and thus, the jet’s formation process and motion parameters. The Zr-based amorphous alloy liner formed by the supercooled liquid-phase high-rheological-rate formation process exhibited a jet velocity 6.5% higher than that formed by the vacuum die casting process.
Mechanical Properties of Ti6Al4V Fabricated by Laser Powder Bed Fusion: A Review Focused on the Processing and Microstructural Parameters Influence on the Final Properties
Authors: Bartolomeu Flávio , Gasik Michael , Silva Filipe Samuel , Miranda Georgina
Published: June 2022

Ti6Al4V alloy is an ideal lightweight structural metal for a huge variety of engineering applications due to its distinguishing combination of high specific mechanical properties, excellent corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. In this review, the mechanical properties of selective laser-melted Ti6Al4V parts are addressed in detail, as well as the main processing and microstructural parameters that influence the final properties. Fundamental knowledge is provided by linking the microstructural features and the final mechanical properties of Ti6Al4V parts, including tensile strength, tensile strain, fatigue resistance, hardness and wear performance. A comparison between Laser Powder Bed Fusion and conventional processing routes is also addressed. The presence of defects in as-built Ti6Al4V parts and their influences on the mechanical performance are also critically discussed. The results available in the literature show that typical Laser Powder Bed–Fused Ti6Al4V tensile properties (>900 MPa yield strength and >1000 MPa tensile strength) are adequate when considering the minimum values of the standards for implants and for aerospace applications (e.g., ASTM F136–13; ASTM F1108–14; AMS4930; AMS6932).
Hydrogen Embrittlement of CoCrFeMnNi High-Entropy Alloy Compared with 304 and IN718 Alloys
Authors: Feng Zheng , Li Xinfeng , Song Xiaolong , Gu Tang , Zhang Yong
Published: June 2022

The hydrogen embrittlement (HE) behaviors of a CoCrFeMnNi high-entropy alloy (HEA), 304 stainless steel (304SS) and IN718 alloys were studied and compared via electrochemical hydrogen pre-charging, slow strain rate tensile tests, and fracture surface analysis. The results demonstrate that the HEA exhibited the greatest HE-resistance, followed by 304SS and then IN718 alloy, when the alloys were charged at 1.79 mA cm−2 for 24 h and 48 h, and 179 mA cm−2 for 2 h. Hydrogen-induced reduction in ductility was observed for 304SS and IN718 alloys, whereas the hydrogen-affected fracture strain of the HEA was dependent on the hydrogen charging time. The resistance to HE was improved at a short hydrogen charging time (24 h), but reduced at a long charging time (48 h). This is attributed to the competing mechanisms between hydrogen-enhanced twin formation and HEDE (hydrogen-enhanced decohesion).
Titanium Removal from Metallurgical-Grade Silicon Melts Using High-Basicity Index Slag and Carbon Dioxide Injection
Authors: Long Xiao , Luo Wenbo , Lv Jun , Chen Falou , Li Xiang , Long Shaolei
Published: June 2022

In this study, novel slags with a high basicity index were used to refine silicon melts with carbon dioxide injection to effectively remove Ti from metallurgical-grade silicon. Different compositions of the initial slag were used, and silicon samples were obtained during the refining. The results indicate that the Ti-removal rate initially increased with an increase in the basicity index, and it decreased after the basicity index exceeded 1.4. During the refining, silicon emulsification was observed at the slag–silicon interface, which was restricted by the increased basicity index of slags. Impurities that were concentrated in silicon droplets near the slag–silicon interfaces were oxidized, wetted by slags, and transferred to the slag phase. After 15 min of refining, up to 59 wt% of Ti in silicon could be removed and the Ti-concentrating phase in the slag contained 2.05 wt% of Ti. The results of this study provide a reference for low-cost Ti removal from metallurgical-grade silicon using a refining method.
A Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Platform Reveals NAFLD Pathophysiological States and Targeting Strategies
Authors: Lefever Daniel E. , Miedel Mark T. , Pei Fen , DiStefano Johanna K. , Debiasio Richard , Shun Tong Ying , Saydmohammed Manush , Chikina Maria , Vernetti Lawrence A. , Soto-Gutierrez Alejandro , Monga Satdarshan P. , Bataller Ramon , Behari Jaideep , Yechoor Vijay K. , Bahar Ivet , Gough Albert , Stern Andrew M. , Taylor D. Lansing
Published: June 2022

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a high global prevalence with a heterogeneous and complex pathophysiology that presents barriers to traditional targeted therapeutic approaches. We describe an integrated quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) platform that comprehensively and unbiasedly defines disease states, in contrast to just individual genes or pathways, that promote NAFLD progression. The QSP platform can be used to predict drugs that normalize these disease states and experimentally test predictions in a human liver acinus microphysiology system (LAMPS) that recapitulates key aspects of NAFLD. Analysis of a 182 patient-derived hepatic RNA-sequencing dataset generated 12 gene signatures mirroring these states. Screening against the LINCS L1000 database led to the identification of drugs predicted to revert these signatures and corresponding disease states. A proof-of-concept study in LAMPS demonstrated mitigation of steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, especially with drug combinations. Mechanistically, several structurally diverse drugs were predicted to interact with a subnetwork of nuclear receptors, including pregnane X receptor (PXR; NR1I2), that has evolved to respond to both xenobiotic and endogenous ligands and is intrinsic to NAFLD-associated transcription dysregulation. In conjunction with iPSC-derived cells, this platform has the potential for developing personalized NAFLD therapeutic strategies, informing disease mechanisms, and defining optimal cohorts of patients for clinical trials.
MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging Highlights Specific Metabolome and Lipidome Profiles in Salivary Gland Tumor Tissues
Authors: Sommella Eduardo , Salviati Emanuela , Caponigro Vicky , Grimaldi Manuela , Musella Simona , Bertamino Alessia , Cacace Luigi , Palladino Remo , Mauro Giuseppe Di , Marini Federico , D’Ursi Anna Maria , Campiglia Pietro
Published: June 2022

Salivary gland tumors are relatively uncommon neoplasms that represent less than 5% of head and neck tumors, and about 90% are in the parotid gland. The wide variety of histologies and tumor characteristics makes diagnosis and treatment challenging. In the present study, Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) was used to discriminate the pathological regions of patient-derived biopsies of parotid neoplasms by metabolomic and lipidomic profiles. Fresh frozen parotid tissues were analyzed by MALDI time-of-flight (TOF) MSI, both in positive and negative ionization modes, and additional MALDI-Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) MSI was carried out for metabolite annotation. MALDI-TOF-MSI spatial segmentation maps with different molecular signatures were compared with the histologic annotation. To maximize the information related to specific alterations between the pathological and healthy tissues, unsupervised (principal component analysis, PCA) and supervised (partial least squares-discriminant analysis, PLS-DA) multivariate analyses were performed presenting a 95.00% accuracy in cross-validation. Glycerophospholipids significantly increased in tumor tissues, while sphingomyelins and triacylglycerols, key players in the signaling pathway and energy production, were sensibly reduced. In addition, a significant increase of amino acids and nucleotide intermediates, consistent with the bioenergetics request of tumor cells, was observed. These results underline the potential of MALDI-MSI as a complementary diagnostic tool to improve the specificity of diagnosis and monitoring of pharmacological therapies.
Metabolomic Study of Dactylis glomerata Growing on Aeolian Archipelago (Italy)
Authors: Mandrone Manuela , Marincich Lorenzo , Chiocchio Ilaria , Zannini Piero , Guarino Riccardo , Poli Ferruccio
Published: June 2022

The Aeolian Islands (Italy) are a volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea comprising seven main islands, among which are two active volcanoes. The peculiar geological features and the wide variety of environments and soils have an important impact on native plants, and in particular, the Aeolian populations of Dactylis glomerata (a perennial cool-season bunchgrass) exhibit remarkable phenotypic variability. Considering that environmental drivers also strongly affect the production of plant metabolites, this work aimed at comparing the metabolomic profiles of D. glomerata (leaves) harvested at different altitudes on four islands of the Aeolian archipelago, namely: Lipari, Vulcano, Stromboli and Panarea. Samples were analyzed by 1H NMR profiling, and data were treated by PCA. Samples collected on Stromboli were very different from each other and from the samples collected in the other islands. Through an Orthogonal Partial Least Squares (OPLS) model, using altitude as the y variable, it emerged that the concentration of proline, glycine betaine, sucrose, glucose and chlorogenic acid of D. glomerata growing on Stromboli decreased at increasing altitude. Conversely, increasing altitude was associated with an increment in valine, asparagine, fumaric acid and phenylalanine.
Production and Functionalities of Specialized Metabolites from Different Organic Sources
Authors: Oladipo Abiodun , Enwemiwe Victor , Ejeromedoghene Onome , Adebayo Ademola , Ogunyemi Olakunle , Fu Fangfang
Published: June 2022

Medicinal plants are rich sources of specialized metabolites that are of great importance to plants, animals, and humans. The usefulness of active biological compounds cuts across different fields, such as agriculture, forestry, food processing and packaging, biofuels, biocatalysts, and environmental remediation. In recent years, research has shifted toward the use of microbes, especially endophytes (bacteria, fungi, and viruses), and the combination of these organisms with other alternatives to optimize the production and regulation of these compounds. This review reinforces the production of specialized metabolites, especially by plants and microorganisms, and the effectiveness of microorganisms in increasing the production/concentration of these compounds in plants. The study also highlights the functions of these compounds in plants and their applications in various fields. New research areas that should be explored to produce and regulate these compounds, especially in plants and microbes, have been identified. Methods involving molecular studies are yet to be fully explored, and next-generation sequencing possesses an interesting and reliable approach.
Recent Advances in Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice)-Containing Herbs Alleviating Radiotherapy- and Chemotherapy-Induced Adverse Reactions in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Wang Kai-Lee , Yu Ying-Chun , Chen Hsin-Yuan , Chiang Yi-Fen , Ali Mohamed , Shieh Tzong-Ming , Hsia Shih-Min
Published: June 2022

Cancers represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. They also impose a large economic burden on patients, their families, and health insurance systems. Notably, cancers and the adverse reactions to their therapeutic options, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, dramatically affect the quality of life of afflicted patients. Therefore, developing approaches to manage chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-induced adverse reactions gained greater attention in recent years. Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), a perennial plant that is one of the most frequently used herbs in traditional Chinese medicine, has been heavily investigated in relation to cancer therapy. Licorice/licorice-related regimes, used in combination with chemotherapy, may improve the adverse effects of chemotherapy. However, there is little awareness of licorice-containing herbs alleviating reactions to radiotherapy and chemotherapy, or to other induced adverse reactions in cancer treatment. We aimed to provide a descriptive review, and to emphasize the possibility that licorice-related medicines could be used as an adjuvant regimen with chemotherapy to improve quality of life (QoL) and to reduce side effects, thus, improving compliance with chemotherapy. The experimental method involved searching different databases, including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Wang Fang database, as of May 2022, to identify any relevant studies. Despite a lack of high-quality and large-scale randomized controlled trials, we still discovered the potential benefits of licorice-containing herbs from published clinical studies. These studies find that licorice-containing herbs, and their active ingredients, reduce the adverse reactions caused by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and improve the QoL of patients. This comprehensive review will serve as a cornerstone to encourage more scientists to evaluate and develop effective Traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions to improve the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Using Mendelian Randomisation to Prioritise Candidate Maternal Metabolic Traits Influencing Offspring Birthweight
Authors: Barry Ciarrah-Jane Shannon , Lawlor Deborah A. , Shapland Chin Yang , Sanderson Eleanor , Borges Maria Carolina
Published: June 2022

Marked physiological changes in pregnancy are essential to support foetal growth; however, evidence on the role of specific maternal metabolic traits from human studies is limited. We integrated Mendelian randomisation (MR) and metabolomics data to probe the effect of 46 maternal metabolic traits on offspring birthweight (N = 210,267). We implemented univariable two-sample MR (UVMR) to identify candidate metabolic traits affecting offspring birthweight. We then applied two-sample multivariable MR (MVMR) to jointly estimate the potential direct causal effect for each candidate maternal metabolic trait. In the main analyses, UVMR indicated that higher maternal glucose was related to higher offspring birthweight (0.328 SD difference in mean birthweight per 1 SD difference in glucose (95% CI: 0.104, 0.414)), as were maternal glutamine (0.089 (95% CI: 0.033, 0.144)) and alanine (0.137 (95% CI: 0.036, 0.239)). In additional analyses, UVMR estimates were broadly consistent when selecting instruments from an independent data source, albeit imprecise for glutamine and alanine, and were attenuated for alanine when using other UVMR methods. MVMR results supported independent effects of these metabolites, with effect estimates consistent with those seen with the UVMR results. Among the remaining 43 metabolic traits, UVMR estimates indicated a null effect for most lipid-related traits and a high degree of uncertainty for other amino acids and ketone bodies. Our findings suggest that maternal gestational glucose and glutamine are causally related to offspring birthweight.
Serum ANGPTL8 and ANGPTL3 as Predictors of Triglyceride Elevation in Adult Women
Authors: Stefanska Anna , Bergmann Katarzyna , Krintus Magdalena , Kuligowska-Prusinska Magdalena , Murawska Karolina , Sypniewska Grazyna
Published: June 2022

Angiopoietin-like proteins ANGPTL3 and ANGPTL8 have been shown to inhibit lipoprotein lipase, and thus regulate triglyceride level in the circulation. Whether the regulation of lipid metabolism by ANGPTLs is affected by the menopausal status remains unclear. We aimed to assess the relationships between serum ANGPTL3 and ANGPTL8 and atherogenic biomarkers in presumably healthy women during ageing. The study group included 94 women of whom 31 were premenopausal (PRE ≤ 40 years) and 37 were postmenopausal (POST ≥ 52 years). Atherogenic lipid and non-lipid biomarkers and ANGPTLs (ANGPTL3, ANGPTL8) were assayed in serum samples. TG/HDL-C index, non-HDL-cholesterol, remnant cholesterol concentrations, and BMI were calculated. Median levels of ANGPTL3 and concentrations of lipid biomarkers were significantly higher in POST comparing to PRE but ANGPTL8 levels were not different. In PRE, ANGPTL8 levels correlated significantly with TG and TG/HDL-C index while there were no correlations between ANGPTL3 and these biomarkers. In POST both ANGPTLs correlated with TG, sdLDL-C, and TG/HDL-C. ANGPTL8 and sd-LDL-C were the most significant predictors of early triglyceride elevation > 100 mg/dL (1.13 mmol/L) in the whole group and POST whereas the prediction power of ANGPTL3 was negligible in the whole group and non-significant in the subgroups. We demonstrated a significant positive correlation of ANGPTL3 with age category which predisposes to postmenopause. Despite the increase in ANGPTL3 level with ageing the ANGPTL3/ANGPL8 ratio was maintained. In conclusion, ANGPTL8 predicts the early triglyceride elevation better than ANGPTL3, especially in postmenopausal women. The association of ANGPTL3 with triglyceride levels is weaker than ANGPTL8 and depends on menopausal status. We suggest that the choice for the best efficient treatment of dyslipidemia with new inhibitors of angiopoietin-like proteins may depend on the menopausal status.
Simulation Analysis of Multi-Physical Field Coupling and Parameter Optimization of ECM Miniature Bearing Outer Ring Based on the Gas-Liquid Two-Phase Turbulent Flow Model
Authors: Li Zhaolong , Li Wangwang , Cao Bingren
Published: June 2022

Electrochemical machining (ECM) is an essential method for machining miniature bearing outer rings on the high-temperature-resistant nickel-based alloy GH4169. However, the influence of electrolyte temperature distribution and bubble rate distribution on electrolyte conductivity in the ECM area could not be fully considered, resulting in the simulation model not being able to accurately predict the machining accuracy of the outer ring of the miniature bearing, making it challenging to model and predict the optimal process parameters. In this paper, a multiphysics field coupled simulation model of electric, flow, and temperature fields during the ECM of the miniature bearing outer ring is established based on the gas–liquid two-phase turbulent flow model. The simulation analyzed the distribution of electrolyte temperature, bubble rate, flow rate, and current density in the machining area, and the profile change of the outer ring of the miniature bearing during the machining process. The analysis of variance and significance of machining voltage, electrolyte concentration, electrolyte inlet flow rate, and interaction on the mean error of the ECM miniature bearing outer rings was derived from the central composite design. The regression equation between the average error and the process parameters was established, and the optimal combination of process parameters for the average error was predicted, i.e., the minimum value of 0.014 mm could be achieved under the conditions of a machining voltage of 16.20 V, an electrolyte concentration of 9.29%, and an electrolyte inlet flow rate of 11.84 m/s. This is important to improve the machining accuracy of the outer ring of the ECM miniature bearing.
Sensitivity Enhancement and Probiotic Detection of Microfluidic Chips Based on Terahertz Radiation Combined with Metamaterial Technology
Authors: Lin Yen-Shuo , Huang Shih-Ting , Hsu Shen-Fu Steve , Tang Kai-Yuan , Yen Ta-Jen , Yao Da-Jeng
Published: June 2022

Terahertz (THz) radiation has attracted wide attention in recent years due to its non-destructive properties and ability to sense molecular structures. In applications combining terahertz radiation with metamaterial technology, the interaction between the terahertz radiation and the metamaterials causes resonance reactions; different analytes have different resonance performances in the frequency domain. In addition, a microfluidic system is able to provide low volume reagents for detection, reduce noise from the environment, and concentrate the sample on the detection area. Through simulation, a cruciform metamaterial pattern was designed; the proportion, periodicity, and width of the metamaterial were adjusted to improve the sensing capability of the chip. In the experiments, the sensing capabilities of Type A, B, and C chips were compared. The Type C chip had the most significant resonant effect; its maximum shift could be increased to 89 GHz. In the probiotic experiment, the cruciform chip could have a 0.72 GHz shift at a concentration of 0.025 mg/50 μL, confirming that terahertz radiation combined with a metamaterial microfluidic chip can perform low-concentration detection.
Highly active N, S Co-Doped Ultramicroporous Carbon for High-Performance Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Lu Wenjing , Hao Lina , Wang Yawei
Published: June 2022

N, S-doped ultramicroporous carbons (NSUC-x) with a high nitrogen/sulfur content and a narrow pore-size distribution of around 0.55 nm were firstly prepared using L-cysteine as a nitrogen and sulfur source. The phase, graphitization degree, morphology, specific surface area, pore structure and surface condition of NSUC-x are investigated to analyze the key role in electrochemical performance. Such an ultramicroporous structure and N, S doping not merely provide a high-specific surface area and a suitable pore size, but also induce a good wettability for the fast transport and adsorption of electrolyte ions. Due to the above strategies, the typical NSUC-0.4 exhibits a high gravimetric capacitance of 339 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 as well as a capacity retention of 91.6% after 10,000 cycles in a three-electrode system using a 6 M KOH electrolyte. More attractively, a NSUC-0.4-assembled symmetrical supercapacitor delivers an energy output of 7.4 Wh kg−1 at 100 W kg−1 in 6 M KOH as well as a capacity retention of 92.4% after 10,000 cycles, indicating its practical application prospect. Our findings open up new prospects for the design and electrochemical application of N, S-doped ultramicroporous carbons.