bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insight into Lotusine and Puerarin in Repairing Alcohol-Induced Metabolic Disorder Based on UPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Xu Jiayang , Zhang Xiaoyue , Yan Lili , Zhang Zhichao , Wei Jing , Li Luqi , Zhang Qiang
Published: September 2022

Alcohol is an essential element in human culture. However, alcoholism has contributed to numerous health issues, including alcoholic fatty liver and sudden death. We found that the alkaloid lotusine possessed hepato- and neuroprotection against alcohol injuries. Lotusine showed comparable protective effects to puerarin, a widely recognized antagonist against alcohol damage. To better understand the metabolic response to alcohol injury and antagonist molecules, we applied sensitive zebrafish and LC-ESI-MS to collect metabolites related to alcohol, puerarin and lotusine exposure. LC-MS identified 119 metabolites with important physiological roles. Differential metabolomic analysis showed that alcohol caused abnormal expression of 82 metabolites (60 up-regulated and 22 down-regulated). These differential metabolites involved 18 metabolic pathways and modules, including apoptosis, necroptosis, nucleotide and fatty acid metabolism. Puerarin reversed seven metabolite variations induced by alcohol, which were related to necroptosis and sphingolipid metabolism. Lotusine was found to repair five metabolites disorders invoked by alcohol, mainly through nucleotide metabolism and glutathione metabolism. In phenotypic bioassay, lotusine showed similar activities to puerarin in alleviating behavioral abnormalities, neuroapoptosis and hepatic lipid accumulation induced by alcohol exposure. Our findings provided a new antagonist, lotusine, for alcohol-induced damage and explored the roles in repairing abnormal metabolism.
An Immunological Polysaccharide from Tremella fuciformis: Essential Role of Acetylation in Immunomodulation
Authors: Huang Tzu-Yin , Yang Feng-Ling , Chiu Hsiao-Wen , Chao Hong-Chu , Yang Yen-Ju , Sheu Jyh-Horng , Hua Kuo-Feng , Wu Shih-Hsiung
Published: September 2022

The edible fungus Tremella fuciformis was shown to have a high molecular weight (1.87 × 103 kDa) bioactive polysaccharide, denoted as TFP-F1. Monosaccharide composition and NMR analysis of the polysaccharide and its derivatives indicated it contained fucose (Fucp), xylose (Xylp), mannose (Manp), and glucuronic acid (GlcAp) in a ratio of 0.9:1.0:3.2:1.2. Using IR, NMR, and GC-MS spectroscopic data, the structure of TFP-F1 was elucidated as {→3)-[β-D-GlcAp-(1→2)]-α-D-Manp-(1→3)-α-D-Manp-(1→3)-[α-L-Fucp-(1→2)-β-D-Xylp-(1→2)]-α-D-Manp-(1→}n, with partial acetylation of C6-OH in mannoses. Furthermore, at a concentration of 1 μg/mL, TFP-F1 was found to stimulate the secretion of TNF-α and IL-6 in J774A.1 macrophage cells in vitro via interaction with toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). The removal of O-acetyl groups led to the loss of immunomodulatory activities, demonstrating that O-acetyl groups play an essential role in enhancing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Therapeutic Potential and Mechanisms of Novel Simple O-Substituted Isoflavones against Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion
Authors: Yang Shu-Er , Lien Jin-Cherng , Tsai Chia-Wen , Wu Chi-Rei
Published: September 2022

Isoflavones have been widely studied and have attracted extensive attention in fields ranging from chemotaxonomy and plant physiology to human nutrition and medicine. Isoflavones are often divided into three subgroups: simple O-substituted derivatives, prenylated derivatives, and glycosides. Simple O-substituted isoflavones and their glycosides, such as daidzein (daidzin), genistein (genistin), glycitein (glycitin), biochanin A (astroside), and formononetin (ononin), are the most common ingredients in legumes and are considered as phytoestrogens for daily dietary hormone replacement therapy due to their structural similarity to 17-β-estradiol. On the basis of the known estrogen-like potency, these above isoflavones possess multiple pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-angiogenetic, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, antilipidemic, anti-osteoporotic, and neuroprotective activities. However, there are very few review studies on the protective effects of these novel isoflavones and their related compounds in cerebral ischemia reperfusion. This review primarily focuses on the biosynthesis, metabolism, and neuroprotective mechanism of these aforementioned novel isoflavones in cerebral ischemia reperfusion. From these published works in in vitro and in vivo studies, simple O-substituted isoflavones could serve as promising therapeutic compounds for the prevention and treatment of cerebral ischemia reperfusion via their estrogenic receptor properties and neuron-modulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. The detailed mechanism of the protective effects of simple O-substituted isoflavones against cerebral ischemia reperfusion might be related to the PI3K/AKT/ERK/mTOR or GSK-3β pathway, eNOS/Keap1/Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway, TLRs/TIRAP/MyD88/NFκ-B pathway, and Bcl-2-regulated anti-apoptotic pathway. However, clinical trials are needed to verify their potential on cerebral ischemia reperfusion because past studies were conducted with rodents and prophylactic administration.
Cyto-Genotoxicity of Tritiated Stainless Steel and Cement Particles in Human Lung Cell Models
Authors: Lamartiniere Yordenca , Slomberg Danielle , Payet Michaël , Tassistro Virginie , Mentana Alice , Baiocco Giorgio , Rose Jerome , Lebaron-Jacobs Laurence , Grisolia Christian , Malard Véronique , Orsière Thierry
Published: September 2022

During the decommissioning of nuclear facilities, the tritiated materials must be removed. These operations generate tritiated steel and cement particles that could be accidentally inhaled by workers. Thus, the consequences of human exposure by inhalation to these particles in terms of radiotoxicology were investigated. Their cyto-genotoxicity was studied using two human lung models: the BEAS-2B cell line and the 3D MucilAirTM model. Exposures of the BEAS-2B cell line to particles (2 and 24 h) did not induce significant cytotoxicity. Nevertheless, DNA damage occurred upon exposure to tritiated and non-tritiated particles, as observed by alkaline comet assay. Tritiated particles only induced cytostasis; however, both induced a significant increase in centromere negative micronuclei. Particles were also assessed for their effects on epithelial integrity and metabolic activity using the MucilAirTM model in a 14-day kinetic mode. No effect was noted. Tritium transfer through the epithelium was observed without intracellular accumulation. Overall, tritiated and non-tritiated stainless steel and cement particles were associated with moderate toxicity. However, these particles induce DNA lesions and chromosome breakage to which tritium seems to contribute. These data should help in a better management of the risk related to the inhalation of these types of particles.
Antiallergic Effects of N,N-dicoumaroylspermidine Isolated from Lithospermum erythrorhizon on Mast Cells and Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Le Tam Thi , Kang Tae Kyeom , Lee Wook-Bin , Jung Sang Hoon
Published: September 2022

In East Asia, the dried root of Lithospermum erythrorhizon has been utilized as an anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory agent. Recently, we reported that L. erythrorhizon protects against allergic rhinitis; however, the component within L. erythrorhizon that exerts antiallergic activity remains unknown. The purpose of the current study was to isolate and characterize the antiallergic active components in an ethanolic extract of L. erythrorhizon roots. We examined the antiallergic effects of L. erythrorhizon reflux ethanol extracts in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic rhinitis mouse model, and compared the chemical compounds extracted using the hot reflux and cold extraction methods. Chromatographic separation identified two novel anthraquinones, erythrin A and B, one newly discovered compound from the Lithospermum genus, N1″,N3″-dicoumaroylspermidine, and nineteen other recognized compounds. Their chemical structures were elucidated by single (1D) and 2D analysis of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic data, as well as high resolution mass spectrometry. Among the identified compounds, N,N′-dicoumaroylspermidine strongly inhibited the release of β-hexosaminidase, as well as the production of IL-3, IL-4, and IL-13 by IgE-sensitized and BSA-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells. Using the OVA-induced allergic rhinitis mouse model, we showed that N,N′-dicoumaroylspermidine reduced the production of serum OVA-specific IgE and the number of inflammatory cells in nasal lavage fluid. N,N′-dicoumaroylspermidine isolated from L. erythrorhizon exhibits antiallergic properties, making it potentially effective for allergic rhinitis.
Ghost on the Windshield: Employing a Virtual Human Character to Communicate Pedestrian Acknowledgement and Vehicle Intention
Authors: Rouchitsas Alexandros , Alm Håkan
Published: September 2022

Pedestrians base their street-crossing decisions on vehicle-centric as well as driver-centric cues. In the future, however, drivers of autonomous vehicles will be preoccupied with non-driving related activities and will thus be unable to provide pedestrians with relevant communicative cues. External human–machine interfaces (eHMIs) hold promise for filling the expected communication gap by providing information about a vehicle’s situational awareness and intention. In this paper, we present an eHMI concept that employs a virtual human character (VHC) to communicate pedestrian acknowledgement and vehicle intention (non-yielding; cruising; yielding). Pedestrian acknowledgement is communicated via gaze direction while vehicle intention is communicated via facial expression. The effectiveness of the proposed anthropomorphic eHMI concept was evaluated in the context of a monitor-based laboratory experiment where the participants performed a crossing intention task (self-paced, two-alternative forced choice) and their accuracy in making appropriate street-crossing decisions was measured. In each trial, they were first presented with a 3D animated sequence of a VHC (male; female) that either looked directly at them or clearly to their right while producing either an emotional (smile; angry expression; surprised expression), a conversational (nod; head shake), or a neutral (neutral expression; cheek puff) facial expression. Then, the participants were asked to imagine they were pedestrians intending to cross a one-way street at a random uncontrolled location when they saw an autonomous vehicle equipped with the eHMI approaching from the right and indicate via mouse click whether they would cross the street in front of the oncoming vehicle or not. An implementation of the proposed concept where non-yielding intention is communicated via the VHC producing either an angry expression, a surprised expression, or a head shake; cruising intention is communicated via the VHC puffing its cheeks; and yielding intention is communicated via the VHC nodding, was shown to be highly effective in ensuring the safety of a single pedestrian or even two co-located pedestrians without compromising traffic flow in either case. The implications for the development of intuitive, culture-transcending eHMIs that can support multiple pedestrians in parallel are discussed.
A Time-Varying Incentive Optimization for Interactive Demand Response Based on Two-Step Clustering
Authors: Li Fei , Gao Bo , Shi Lun , Shen Hongtao , Tao Peng , Wang Hongxi , Mao Yehua , Zhao Yiyi
Published: September 2022

With the increasing marketization of electricity, residential users are gradually participating in various businesses of power utility companies, and there are more and more interactive adjustments between load, source, and grid. However, the participation of large-scale users has also brought challenges to the grid companies in carrying out demand-side dispatching work. The user load response is uneven, and users’ behavioral characteristics are highly differentiated. It is necessary to consider the differences in users’ electricity consumption demand in the design of the peak–valley load time-sharing incentives, and to adopt a more flexible incentive form. In this context, this paper first establishes a comprehensive clustering method integrating k-means and self-organizing networks (SONs) for the two-step clustering and a BP neural network for reverse adjustment and correction. Then, a time-varying incentive optimization for interactive demand response based on two-step clustering is introduced. Furthermore, based on the different clustering results of customers, the peak–valley load time-sharing incentives are formulated. The proposed method is validated through case studies, where the results indicate that our method can effectively improve the users’ load characteristics and reduce the users’ electricity costs compared to the existing methods.
Decipherment Challenges Due to Tamga and Letter Mix-Ups in an Old Hungarian Runic Inscription from the Altai Mountains
Authors: Revesz Peter Z.
Published: September 2022

An Old Hungarian Runic inscription from the Altai Mountains with 40 signs has posed some special challenges for decipherment due to several letter mix-ups and the use of a tamga sign, which is the first reported use of a tamga within this type of script. This paper gives a complete and correct translation and draws some lessons that can be learned about decipherment. It introduces sign similarity matrices as a method of detecting accidental misspellings and shows that sign similarity matrices can be efficiently computed. It also explains the importance of simultaneously achieving the three criteria for a valid decipherment: correct signs, syntax, and semantics.
RAMi: A New Real-Time Internet of Medical Things Architecture for Elderly Patient Monitoring
Authors: Debauche Olivier , Nkamla Penka Jean Bertin , Mahmoudi Saïd , Lessage Xavier , Hani Moad , Manneback Pierre , Lufuluabu Uriel Kanku , Bert Nicolas , Messaoudi Dounia , Guttadauria Adriano
Published: September 2022

The aging of the world’s population, the willingness of elderly to remain independent, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic have demonstrated the urgent need for home-based diagnostic and patient monitoring systems to reduce the financial and organizational burdens that impact healthcare organizations and professionals. The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), i.e., all medical devices and applications that connect to health information systems through online computer networks. The IoMT is one of the domains of IoT where real-time processing of data and reliability are crucial. In this paper, we propose RAMi, which is a Real-Time Architecture for the Monitoring of elderly patients thanks to the Internet of Medical Things. This new architecture includes a Things layer where data are retrieved from sensors or smartphone, a Fog layer built on a smart gateway, Mobile Edge Computing (MEC), a cloud component, blockchain, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address the specific problems of IoMT. Data are processed at Fog level, MEC or cloud in function of the workload, resource requirements, and the level of confidentiality. A local blockchain allows workload orchestration between Fog, MEC, and Cloud while a global blockchain secures exchanges and data sharing by means of smart contracts. Our architecture allows to follow elderly persons and patients during and after their hospitalization. In addition, our architecture allows the use of federated learning to train AI algorithms while respecting privacy and data confidentiality. AI is also used to detect patterns of intrusion.
Analysis of the Holarctic Dictyoptera aurora Complex (Coleoptera, Lycidae) Reveals Hidden Diversity and Geographic Structure in Müllerian Mimicry Ring
Authors: Motyka Michal , Kusy Dominik , Bilkova Renata , Bocak Ladislav
Published: September 2022

The elateroid family Lycidae is known for limited dispersal propensity and high species-level endemism. The red net-winged beetle, Dictyoptera aurora (Herbst, 1874), differs from all relatives by the range comprising almost the entire Holarctic region. Based on a five-marker phylogeny and 67 barcode entries (cox1-5′ mtDNA) from the whole range, we recovered two genetically distinct species within traditionally defined D. aurora and resurrected the name D. coccinata (Say, 1835) as the oldest available synonym for Nearctic populations. Yet, no reliable morphological trait distinguishes these species except for minute differences in the male genitalia. D. coccinata is a monophylum resulting from a single Miocene dispersal event, ~15.8 million years ago, and genetic divergence implies long-term isolation by the Bering Strait. Far East Asian and west European populations are also genetically distinct, although to a lower extent. Two independent colonization events established the Fennoscandian populations after the last glacial maximum. Besides intrinsic factors, the high morphological similarity might result from stabilizing selection for shared aposematic signals. The rapidly accumulating barcode data provide valuable information on the evolutionary history and the origins of regional faunas.
25 Years of Dual-Readout Calorimetry
Authors: Wigmans Richard
Published: September 2022

Twenty-five years ago, at the CALOR1997 conference in Tucson, the idea of dual-readout calorimetry was first presented. In this talk, I discuss the considerations that led to that proposal, and describe the developments that have since taken place, to the point where dual-readout calorimetry is now considered a major candidate for experiments at future colliders.
Finite Element Simulation of FRP-Strengthened Thin RC Slabs
Authors: Assad Maha , Hawileh Rami , Abdalla Jamal
Published: September 2022

This study aims to investigate the flexural behavior of high-strength thin slabs externally strengthened with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) laminates through a numerical simulation. A three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) model is created to simulate the response of strengthened reinforced concrete (RC) slabs under a four-point bending test. The numerical model results in terms of load-deflection behavior, and ultimate loads are verified using previously published experimental data in the literature. The numerical results show a good agreement with the experimental results. The FE model is then employed in a parametric study to inspect the effect of concrete compressive strength on the performance of RC thin slabs strengthened with different FRP types, namely carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP), polyethylene terephthalate fiber-reinforced polymers (PET-FRP), basalt fiber-reinforced polymers (BFRP) and glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRP). The results showed that the highest strength enhancement was obtained by the slab that was strengthened by CFRP sheets. Slabs that were strengthened with other types of FRP sheets showed an almost similar flexural capacity. The effect of concrete compressive strength on the flexural behavior of the strengthened slabs was moderate, with the highest effect being a 15% increase in the ultimate load between two consecutive values of compressive strength, occurring in the CFRP-strengthened slabs. It can thus be concluded that the developed FE model could be used as a platform to predict the behavior of reinforced concrete slabs when strengthened with different types of FRP composites. It can also be concluded that the modulus of elasticity of the composite plays a major role in determining the flexural capacity of the strengthened slabs.
The Relationship between Mutations in Gene-Specific Domains of Salivary Fibronectin (cFn) and Dynamin-2 (Dynm-2) and the Development of Porphyromonas gingivalis-Initiated Periodontitis
Authors: Oleinik Elena A. , Goncharenko Anna V.
Published: September 2022

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth. Its high prevalence and negative effects on quality of life make it one of the current problems in dentistry. Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) is the predominant periodontal pathogen that expresses a number of virulence factors involved in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. P. gingivalis fimbriae are a critical factor in the interaction between the organism and the host tissue. They promote both bacterial adhesion and invasion into the target sites. Fimbriae are capable of binding to human saliva components, extracellular matrix proteins, and commensal bacteria, as well as firmly binding to the cellular integrin α5β1. After attachment to α5β1-integrin, P. gingivalis is captured by cellular pseudopodia, which makes invagination through an actin-mediated pathway possible. It has been proven that the invagination event also requires the participation of the host cell dynamin, actin fibers, microtubules and lipid rafts. Work has emerged investigating mutations in the proline-rich terminal domain (PRD) and their impact on disease development. Salivary antimicrobial peptides are early protective factors against microbial attack. Of great interest is fibronectin (FN) as the main competitor of P. gingivalis fimbriae. The FN can interact with cells in three different regions: the central cell-binding domain (CCBD), the COOH terminal heparin-binding domain (Hep2), and the type III connecting segment (IIICS), including the CS1 region (Yamada, 1991). CCBD is the major cell-adhesion domain of FN and contains an Arg–Gly–Asp (RGD) motif that is recognized by members of the cell adhesion receptor integrin family, including a5b1, which is the primary FN receptor in many cell types. The work focuses on identifying the relationship between the development of periodontitis and the presence of mutations in the adhesion domains of salivary proteins such as cellular fibronectin (cFN) and dynamin-2 (DYNM2).
Validation Study of the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire in Patients with Acute Stroke
Authors: Rollo Eleonora , Della Marca Giacomo , Scala Irene , Buccarella Cristina , Rozera Tommaso , Vollono Catello , Frisullo Giovanni , Broccolini Aldobrando , Brunetti Valerio
Published: September 2022

Sleep disorders are frequent in acute stroke. The Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RCSQ) is a validated scale for the sleep assessment in intensive care unit. The aim of the present study is to validate RCSQ for use in patients with acute stroke. We performed a validation study by comparing the RCSQ with polysomnography (PSG), the standardized measure of sleep. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 18 years and a radiologically confirmed diagnosis of stroke. Exclusion criteria were global aphasia, extreme severity of clinical conditions and inability to attend PSG. All patients underwent PSG in a stroke unit, the day after a subjective sleep assessment by means of the RCSQ. The RCSQ was compared with PSG parameters to assess the degree of concordance of the two measures. The cohort consisted of 36 patients. Mean RCSQ score was 61.5 ± 24.8. The total score of the RCSQ showed a good degree of concordance with the sleep efficiency index of PSG. Accuracy of the RCSQ was 70%, sensitivity 71% and specificity 68%. The RCSQ is a good tool for screening the sleep quality in the setting of a stroke unit. Therefore, it could be useful to select the patients who might beneficiate from an instrumental sleep evaluation.
Gender and Sentencing in Lithuania: More Mercy for Women?
Authors: Tereškinas Artūras , Vaičiūnienė Rūta , Jarutienė Liubovė
Published: September 2022

This article focuses on the structure of female and male crimes and gender disparities in sentencing in Lithuania, which present a significant gap in criminological research. Using Lithuanian court decisions on five types of offenses—murder, grievous bodily harm, actual bodily harm, drug distribution, and theft—we attempt to answer whether women are punished more leniently than men. Our research demonstrates that gender is a significant factor only in some sentences. Only the length of a prison sentence showed a statistically significant difference. When the importance of legal and extralegal factors in imposing prison length is compared, legal factors are found to be more significant predictors. The prison sentence length was mainly affected by the presence of a prior conviction, additional charges, and mitigating and aggravating circumstances. Although the average prison sentence for men in cases of grievous bodily harm and drug distribution was significantly longer than for women, the regression models developed for each offence type revealed that neither gender nor other extralegal factors appeared to be significant in determining the length of the prison sentence. The results allow us to argue that future research should focus more on analyzing extralegal factors and judges’ motives in discretionary sentencing decisions.
Mechanical Characterization at the Microscale of Mineralized Bone Callus after Bone Lengthening
Authors: Roseren Flavy , Roffino Sandrine , Pithioux Martine
Published: September 2022

Distraction osteogenesis (DO) involves several processes to form an organized distracted callus. While bone regeneration during DO has been widely described, no study has yet focused on the evolution profile of mechanical properties of mineralized tissues in the distracted callus. The aim of this study was therefore to measure the elastic modulus and hardness of calcified cartilage and trabecular and cortical bone within the distracted callus during the consolidation phase. We used a microindentation assay to measure the mechanical properties of periosteal and endosteal calluses; each was subdivided into two regions. Histological sections were used to localize the tissues. The results revealed that the mechanical properties of calcified cartilage did not evolve over time. However, trabecular bone showed temporal variation. For elastic modulus, in three out of four regions, a similar evolution profile was observed with an increase and decrease over time. Concerning hardness, this evolves differently depending on the location in the distracted callus. We also observed spatial changes in between regions. A first duality was apparent between regions close to the native cortices and the central area, while latter differences were seen between periosteal and endosteal calluses. Data showed a heterogeneity of mechanical properties in the distracted callus with a specific mineralization profile.
Effect of Stiffening the Printed Circuit Board in the Fatigue Life of the Solder Joint
Authors: Doranga Sushil , Schuldt Matthew , Khanal Mukunda
Published: September 2022

Predictive analysis of the life of an electronic package requires a sequence of processes involving: (i) development of a finite element (FE) model, (ii) correlation of the FE model using experimental data, and (iii) development of a local model using the correlated FE model. The life of the critical components is obtained from the local model and is usually compared to the experimental results. Although the specifics of such analyses are available in the literature, a comparison among them and against the same electronic package with different user printed circuit board (PCB) thicknesses does not exist. This study addresses the issues raised during the design phase/life analysis, by considering a particular package with a variable geometric thickness of the user PCB. In this paper, the effect of stiffening the user PCB on the fatigue life of a ball grid array (BGA), SAC305 solder joint is studied. The board stiffness was varied by changing the thickness of the PCB, while the size of the substrate, chips, and solder balls were kept constant. The test vehicle consisted of BGA chips soldered to a user PCB. The thickness of the user PCB was varied, but the surface area of the BGA chip remained identical. The test vehicle was then modeled using a finite element analysis tool (ANSYS). Using a global/local modeling approach, the modal parameters in the simulations were correlated with experimental data. The first resonance frequency dwell test was carried out in ANSYS, and the high-cycle fatigue life was estimated using the stress-life approach. Following the simulation, the test vehicle was subjected to resonance fatigue testing by exciting at the first mode resonance frequency, the mode with the most severe solder joint failure. The resistance of the solder joint during the experiment was monitored using a daisy-chain circuit, and the point of failure was further confirmed using the destructive evaluation technique. Both the experimental and simulation results showed that stiffening the board will significantly increase the fatigue life of the solder joint. Although the amplitude of the acceleration response of the test vehicle will be higher due to board stiffening, the increase in natural frequencies will significantly reduce the amplitude of relative displacement between the PCB and the substrate.
Poly(lactic acid) Matrix Reinforced with Diatomaceous Earth
Authors: Zglobicka Izabela , Joka-Yildiz Magdalena , Molak Rafal , Kawalec Michal , Dubicki Adrian , Wroblewski Jakub , Dydek Kamil , Boczkowska Anna , Kurzydlowski Krzysztof J.
Published: September 2022

The poly(lactic acid) (PLA) biodegradable polymer, as well as natural, siliceous reinforcement in the form of diatomaceous earth, fit perfectly into the circular economy trend. In this study, various kinds of commercial PLA have been reinforced with diatomaceous earth (DE) to prepare biodegradable composites via the extrusion process. The structure of the manufactured composites as well as adhesion between the matrix and the filler were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyses were carried out to determine crystallinity of PLA matrix as function of DE additions. Additionally, the effect of the ceramic-based reinforcement on the mechanical properties (Young’s modulus, elongation to failure, ultimate tensile strength) of PLA has been investigated. The results are discussed in terms of possible applications of PLA + DE composites.
Modification of Inconel 718 Properties by In Situ Y Addition in Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Borisov Evgenii , Popovich Anatoly , Sufiiarov Vadim
Published: September 2022

The paper presents the results of a study of the possibility of Inconel 718 alloy properties modifying by adding Yttrium in situ in the process of selective laser melting. The single and double laser processing of each layer was used. Yttrium was introduced into the alloy in an amount of 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, and 2 mass %. Studies of the structure of the material showed that undissolved Yttrium particles remain in the material. With an increase in the proportion of yttrium in the alloy, the hardness increases. Tensile test showed that with an increase in the content of yttrium from 0 to 0.1%, the yield strength and tensile strength decrease, but the relative elongation increases. With a further increase in the yttrium content, there is a sharp decrease in the relative elongation and an increase in the yield strength, which is caused by the existence of a large number of undissolved yttrium particles in the sample.
Additive Manufacturing of Spinal Braces: Evaluation of Production Process and Postural Stability in Patients with Scoliosis
Authors: Storm Fabio Alexander , Redaelli Davide Felice , Biffi Emilia , Reni Gianluigi , Fraschini Paolo
Published: September 2022

Spinal orthoses produced using additive manufacturing show great potential for obtaining patient-specific solutions in clinical applications, reducing manual operations, time consumption, and material waste. This study was conducted to evaluate the production process of spinal orthoses produced by additive manufacturing, and to test the effects of 3D-printed braces on postural stability in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and osteogenesis imperfecta. Ten patients were recruited consecutively and were asked to wear a spinal orthosis produced by additive manufacturing for 2 weeks. The four phases of the production process for each brace were evaluated separately on a scale from 0 (not acceptable) to 3 (optimal). Postural stability in the unbraced and the two braced conditions (3D-printed and conventional) was assessed using validated metrics obtained from a wearable inertial sensor. The production process was evaluated as good in four cases, acceptable in five cases, and not acceptable in one case, due to problems in the printing phase. No statistically significant differences were observed in any of the postural balance metrics between the 3D-printed and conventional brace. On the other hand, postural balance metrics improved significantly with both types of braces with respect to the unbraced condition. Spinal orthoses produced with an innovative production process based on digital scans, CAD, and 3D printing are valid alternatives to conventionally produced orthoses, providing equivalent postural stability.
In Vitro Antimicrobial Effect of Novel Electrospun Polylactic Acid/Hydroxyapatite Nanofibres Loaded with Doxycycline
Authors: Andrei Vlad , Fiț Nicodim Iosif , Matei Ioana , Barabás Réka , Bizo Liliana Antonela , Cadar Oana , Boșca Bianca Adina , Farkas Noémi-Izabella , Marincaș Laura , Muntean Dana-Maria , Dinte Elena , Ilea Aranka
Published: September 2022

The present study aimed to assess the in vitro antimicrobial effects of a novel biomaterial containing polylactic acid (PLA), nano-hydroxyapatite (nano-HAP) and Doxycycline (Doxy) obtained by electrospinning and designed for the non-surgical periodontal treatment. The antimicrobial activity of two samples (test sample, PLA-HAP-Doxy7: 5% PLA, nano-HAP, 7% Doxy and control sample, PLA-HAP: 5% PLA, nano-HAP) against two periodontal pathogens—Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis—was assessed using the Kirby–Bauer Disk Diffusion Susceptibility Test and compared with the effect of four antibiotics used as adjuvants in periodontal therapy: Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Doxy and Metronidazole. The test sample (embedded with Doxy) showed higher inhibitory effects than commonly used antibiotics used in the treatment of periodontitis, while the control sample showed no inhibitory effects. Moreover, significant differences were observed between the inhibition zones of the two samples (p < 0.05). The Doxy-loaded PLA nanofibres had an antimicrobial effect against the periodontal pathogens. Based on these results, the novel biomaterial could be a promising candidate as adjuvant for the non-surgical local treatment in periodontitis.
An Assessment on the Efficiency of Clothing with UV Protection among the Spanish Navy School Students
Authors: Ribas José Roberto , Rodríguez Sol García , Fariña Elena Arce , Suárez-García Andrés
Published: September 2022

Concern about the harmful effects that ultraviolet (UV) rays have on the skin of people who are routinely exposed to solar radiation has driven the industry of skin protection creams, sunglasses and clothing. Spanish Navy personnel are subject to different levels of exposure depending on their rank and function. The objective of this research is to analyze the behavioral variables associated to the effects on the skin caused by UV rays, denoted by the combined effects of perceived susceptibility and perceived severity, on their decision to purchase and wear uniforms with UV protection. A confirmatory analysis using a structural equation modeling (SEM) was performed on a sample of 100 respondents. The model results revealed a strong mediating characteristic of the intention to use, variable associated with the exogenous variables. Attitude towards the use of clothing and social influence, as well as the exogenous variable clothing action planning, on the sun protective clothing use during tactical maneuvers. These relationships were significant with p-values close to zero. However, exogenous variables related to perceived susceptibility and perceived severity in exposure to sunlight did not represent a significant influence when mediated by self-efficacy in use. The results revealed the consequence of awareness about the importance of protecting oneself and the influence that usage habits can have on the military with respect to the decision to purchase uniforms with UV protection.
Advances in Perovskite Quantum Dots and Their Devices: A New Open Special Issue in Materials
Authors: Zhao Shuangyi , Zang Zhigang
Published: September 2022

‘Advances in Perovskite Quantum Dots and Their Devices’ is a new open Special Issue of Materials in which original and review papers on the novel findings of synthesis, deep understandings of properties, and advanced potentials of applications in perovskite quantum dots are reported and published [...]
Influence of Abutment Design on Biomechanical Behavior to Support a Screw-Retained 3-Unit Fixed Partial Denture
Authors: Lopes Guilherme da Rocha Scalzer , Matos Jefferson David Melo de , Queiroz Daher Antonio , Tribst João Paulo Mendes , Ramos Nathália de Carvalho , Rocha Mateus Garcia , Barbosa Adriano Baldotto , Bottino Marco Antonio , Borges Alexandre Luiz Souto , Nishioka Renato Sussumu
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of Morse taper implants using different abutments (CMN abutment [(CMN Group] and miniconical abutments [MC Group]), indicated to support a screw-retained 3-unit fixed partial denture. For the in vitro test, polyurethane blocks were fabricated for both groups (n = 10) and received three implants in the “offset” configuration and their respective abutments (CMN or MC) with a 3-unit fixed partial denture. Four strain gauges were bonded to the surface of each block. For the finite element analysis, 3D models of both groups were created and exported to the analysis software to perform static structural analysis. All structures were considered homogeneous, isotropic, and elastic. The contacts were considered non-linear with a friction coefficient of 0.3 between metallic structures and considered bonded between the implant and substrate. An axial load of 300 N was applied in three points (A, B, and C) for both methods. The microstrain and the maximum principal stress were considered as analysis criteria. The obtained data were submitted to the Mann–Whitney, Kruskal–Wallis, and Dunn’s multiple comparison test (α = 5%). The results obtained by strain gauge showed no statistical difference (p = 0.879) between the CMN (645.3 ± 309.2 με) and MC (639.3 ± 278.8 με) and allowed the validation of computational models with a difference of 6.3% and 6.4% for the microstrains in the CMN and MC groups, respectively. Similarly, the results presented by the computational models showed no statistical difference (p = 0.932) for the CMN (605.1 ± 358.6 με) and MC (598.7 ± 357.9 με) groups. The study concluded that under favorable conditions the use of CMN or MP abutments to support a fixed partial denture can be indicated.
Phonon Structure, Infra-Red and Raman Spectra of Li2MnO3 by First-Principles Calculations
Authors: Pulido Ruth , Naveas Nelson , Martin-Palma Raúl J. , Agulló-Rueda Fernando , Ferró Victor R. , Hernández-Montelongo Jacobo , Recio-Sánchez Gonzalo , Brito Ivan , Manso-Silván Miguel
Published: September 2022

The layer-structured monoclinic Li2MnO3 is a key material, mainly due to its role in Li-ion batteries and as a precursor for adsorbent used in lithium recovery from aqueous solutions. In the present work, we used first-principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) to study the crystal structure, optical phonon frequencies, infra-red (IR), and Raman active modes and compared the results with experimental data. First, Li2MnO3 powder was synthesized by the hydrothermal method and successively characterized by XRD, TEM, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy. Secondly, by using Local Density Approximation (LDA), we carried out a DFT study of the crystal structure and electronic properties of Li2MnO3. Finally, we calculated the vibrational properties using Density Functional Perturbation Theory (DFPT). Our results show that simulated IR and Raman spectra agree well with the observed phonon structure. Additionally, the IR and Raman theoretical spectra show similar features compared to the experimental ones. This research is useful in investigations involving the physicochemical characterization of Li2MnO3 material.
Evaluation of Green-Synthesized Cuprospinel Nanoparticles as a Nanosensor for Detection of Low-Concentration Cd(II) Ion in the Aqueous Solutions by the Quartz Crystal Microbalance Method
Authors: Al-Qasmi Noha , Al-Gethami Wafa , Alhashmialameer Dalal , Ismail Sameh H. , Sadek Ahmed H.
Published: September 2022

Cd(II) heavy metal is an extremely dangerous hazardous material for both humans and the environment. Its high toxicity is the reason behind the examination of new techniques for detecting very small concentrations of Cd(II). Recently, Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) has been one of the techniques that have been widely used to detect trace heavy metal ions in solutions. It is a simple, inexpensive, portable, and sensitive gravimetric sensor due to its quality sensitivity lowest to nanograms. In this work, Cuprospinel nanoparticles were synthesized through the green synthesis approach using Psidium guajava L. leaf extract as a reducing agent, which is the first scientific description to report the preparation of these nanoparticles by this method. Subsequently, the synthesized nanoparticles were subjected to the characterization of their crystallinity, structure, and morphology by the XRD, N2 adsorption–desorption, zeta potential, DLS, AFM, SEM, and TEM analyzers. The prepared Cuprospinel nanoparticles were evaluated as a nanosensor for the detection of the very low concentration of Cd(II) ions in aqueous solutions using the QCM technique. The results of the characterization proved that the Cuprospinel nanoparticles have formed in the nanoscale with sub-spherical shapes and particles size ranging from 20 to 80 nm. The BET surface area and pore size analysis revealed that the synthesized Cuprospinel nanoparticles possess a surface area of 47.3 m2/g, an average pore size of 1.5 nm, and a micropore volume of 0.064 cc/g. The QCM results demonstrated the success of the Cuprospinel nanoparticles sensor in detecting the tiny amounts of Cd(II) ions in the aqueous solutions with concentrations reaching about 3.6 ng/L.
Investigation of Multicomponent Fluoridated Borate Glasses through a Design of Mixtures Approach
Authors: MacDonald Kathleen , Boyd Daniel
Published: September 2022

Due to their enhanced dissolution, solubility and reaction speed, borate glasses offer potential advantages for the design and development of therapeutic ion-release systems. However, the field remains poorly understood relative to traditional phosphosilicate and silicate bioglasses. The increased structural complexity and relative lack of published data relating to borates, particularly borofluorates, also decreases the accuracy of artificial intelligence models, which are used to predict glass properties. To develop predictive models for borofluorate networks, this paper uses a design of mixtures approach for rapid screening of composition–property relationships, including the development of polynomial equations that comprehensively establish the predictive capabilities for glass transition, density, mass loss and fluoride release. A broad range of glass compositions, extending through the boron anomaly range, were investigated, with the inclusion of 45 to 95 mol% B2O3 along with 1–50 mol% MgO, CaO and Na2O as well as 1–30% KF and NaF. This design space allows for the investigation of the impact of fluorine as well as mixed alkali–alkaline earth effects. Glass formation was found to extend past 30 mol% KF or NaF without a negative impact on glass degradation in contrast to the trends observed in phosphosilicates. The data demonstrates that fluoroborate materials offer an exceptional base for the development of fluoride-releasing materials.
Structural, Optical, Charge-Transport, and Dielectric Properties of Double-Perovskite La2Co1−zFezMnO6 (z = 0, 0.2–1.0)
Authors: Hussain Ghulam , Batool Shanta , Zheng Yuruo , Li Shuyi , Wang Xiawa
Published: September 2022

A series of double-perovskite La2Co1−zFezMnO6 (z = 0, 0.2–1.0) ceramics were synthesized using a well-established sol–gel method. The series of samples with a monoclinic phase and a P21/n symmetry were characterized by XRD, FTIR, conductivity, and capacitance measurement to extract charge-transport and dielectric characteristics at room temperature. The obtained IR spectra fitted well with the Lorentz oscillator model to calculate the damping factor, optical frequency, and oscillator strength and compared with the theory, which gave better agreement. The calculated activation energies from the Arrhenius plot supported the semiconducting nature of all samples. The temperature and frequency-dependent dielectric parameters, such as the real part (εr′), imaginary part (ε″) of the dielectric constant, dielectric loss (tanδ), and ac-conductivity (σac) were extracted. The dielectric constant (εr′,  ε″) and dielectric loss (tanδ) were enhanced at a low frequency, while the ac-conductivity (σac) displayed higher values at higher frequencies. The enhancement in the dielectric parameters with increasing iron concentrations arose due to the higher surface volume fraction of iron (Fe3+) ions than the cobalt (Co3+) ions. The radius of the Fe3+ (0.645 Å) was relatively higher than the Co3+ ions (0.61 Å), significantly influenced by the grains and grain boundaries, and enhanced the barrier for charge mobility at the grain boundaries that play a vital role in space charge polarization.
Thin Film Composite Polyamide Reverse Osmosis Membrane Technology towards a Circular Economy
Authors: Lejarazu-Larrañaga Amaia , Landaburu-Aguirre Junkal , Senán-Salinas Jorge , Ortiz Juan Manuel , Molina Serena
Published: September 2022

It is estimated that Reverse Osmosis (RO) desalination will produce, by 2025, more than 2,000,000 end-of-life membranes annually worldwide. This review examines the implementation of circular economy principles in RO technology through a comprehensive analysis of the RO membrane life cycle (manufacturing, usage, and end-of-life management). Future RO design should incorporate a biobased composition (biopolymers, recycled materials, and green solvents), improve the durability of the membranes (fouling and chlorine resistance), and facilitate the recyclability of the modules. Moreover, proper membrane maintenance at the usage phase, attained through the implementation of feed pre-treatment, early fouling detection, and membrane cleaning methods can help extend the service time of RO elements. Currently, end-of-life membranes are dumped in landfills, which is contrary to the waste hierarchy. This review analyses up to now developed alternative valorisation routes of end-of-life RO membranes, including reuse, direct and indirect recycling, and energy recovery, placing a special focus on emerging indirect recycling strategies. Lastly, Life Cycle Assessment is presented as a holistic methodology to evaluate the environmental and economic burdens of membrane recycling strategies. According to the European Commission’s objectives set through the Green Deal, future perspectives indicate that end-of-life membrane valorisation strategies will keep gaining increasing interest in the upcoming years.