bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Thermal and kinetic study of hydroxyapatite formation by solid‐state reaction
Authors: Javadinejad Hamid Reza , Ebrahimi‐Kahrizsangi Reza 
Published: December 2020

AbstractHydroxyapatite (HAP) is one of the most attractive calcium phosphates which is used for different applications. While HAP has been mostly synthesized using wet methods, recently solid‐state synthesis methods have attracted more attention. Many efforts have been made to better understand the solid‐state synthesis mechanism. In this study, the kinetics of the solid‐state reaction between hydroxide calcium (Ca(OH)2) and phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5) was studied under nonisothermal conditions using isoconversional methods. The phase analysis revealed that HAP is the main product of this process with no impurity. Thermogravimetric (TG) curves were recorded at four heating rates (β = 5, 10, 12 and 15°C⋅min−1) and analyzed by several well‐known isoconversional methods. Activation energy values were determined for each extent of reaction, which varied from ∼139 to 100 kJ/mol at the reaction extent of 0.1–0.9. Comparison between activation energy values obtained by isoconversional methods revealed that Flynn–Ozawa–Wall and Vyazovkin's method are more accurate than other. The preexponential factor and the reaction model were determined through model‐free methods. The obtained results indicated that the reaction mechanism was chemically controlled or ordered‐based model. Furthermore, the results showed that formation of HAP does not depend on the heating rate; however, it proceeds with increasing temperature.
The effectiveness of selected vegetation communities in regulating runoff and soil loss from regraded gully banks in the Mollisol region of Northeast China
Authors: Yan Yue , Zhang Xingyi , Liu Jielin , Li Jianye , Ding Chao , Qi Zhi , Shen Qingsong , Guo Mingming 
Published: December 2020

AbstractThe steep slopes of actively developed gullies are extremely sensitive to erosion in the Mollisol region of Northeast China; however, decision making on the optimal configuration for gully bank protection is under discussion. Here, five vegetation communities were established on regraded gully banks with bare slopes as the control to identify their controlling effects on flow hydraulics and soil erosion through in situ scouring experiments. A hydraulic flume experiment was conducted to clarify the ability of roots to reduce erosion. For vegetated slopes, flow velocity, stream power, and unit stream power decreased by 42–67%, 0–18%, and 44–68%, respectively, while flow depth, shear stress, the Darcy–Weisbach friction coefficient, and Manning coefficient increased by 55–150%, 69–156%, 5–22‐times and 2–5‐times, respectively. Changes in the seven flow hydraulic parameters were significantly influenced by vegetation coverage, aboveground biomass, root mass density and litter biomass (p < .05). Consequently, the five vegetation communities experienced decreased runoff and soil loss by 19–30% and 78–97%, respectively. Vegetation with tap‐roots and rich roots of 1.0–2.0 mm in diameter was more effective in controlling gully bank erosion. Thus, the vegetation community consisting of Dactylis glomerata, Festuca arundinacea, Uraria crinita and Medicago sativa (25:25:25:25) is perfectly acceptable for gully bank protection in the Mollisol region of Northeast China. The results provide a scientific reference for selecting optimal vegetation configuration for gully bank rehabilitation.
Breathable Materials and Hybrid Nanocomposites with Antimicrobial Activity Based on Porous Poly(ε‐Caprolactone) Obtained via Environmental Crazing
Authors: Yarysheva Alena , Khavpachev Mukhamed , Bagrov Dmitry , Bakirov Artem , Efimov Aleksander , Trofimchuk Elena , Chvalun Sergey 
Published: December 2020

AbstractStructural modification of poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) allows the fabrication of new functional materials obtained via the PCL films/fibers stretching in ethanol by the crazing mechanism. Atomic force microscopy, X‐ray scattering, and differential scanning calorimetry are employed to study the evolution of PCL structure. It is shown that ethanol plasticizes the polymer being deformed, and the stretching of PCL films/fibers occurs with formation of a fibrillar‐porous structure in the interlamellar space. The obtained porous matrices have pore size below 50 nm and bulk porosities of 28% and 48% for fibers and films, respectively. Thermal stabilization of the PCL films’ porous structure made it possible to obtain breathable materials with a vapor permeability of 625–652 g m−2 per day. The resulting porous PCL fibers and films can be used as matrices for the incorporation of useful additives and preparation of functional nanocomposites (NCs), biodegradable surgical suture, packaging, covering, and textile vapor‐permeable materials. Hybrid NCs with antibacterial and fungicidal activities are obtained on the basis of the porous PCL matrices and functional components (5% silver, 1% brilliant green, 28% Betadine, etc.) incorporated into them.
Assessing demand reduction measures for rhino horn consumption
Authors: Chaudhry Peggy E. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractA review of studies that segmented consumers based on their willingness to consume rhino horn are given to identify the various motivational drivers and deterrents of illegal wildlife consumption in China and Vietnam. Medicinal motivations are the most significant stimuli for both Vietnamese and Chinese consumers who believe that the horn treats ailments. A review of campaigns that were developed to generate an awareness of the plight of this endangered species is conducted to highlight the problems of the celebrity‐product degree of fit and eclipsing in the advertisements. We recommend that additional consumer behavior research on demand‐reduction strategies for rhino horn should examine gateway behaviors that initiate consumption; evaluate the viability of diverting demand to substitute products (e.g., synthetic alternatives); investigate the counterfeit market for rhino horn and draw analogies from anticounterfeiting messages to decrease demand for an illicit product; and employ benchmarks to implement and assess the validity of campaigns targeted at Asian consumers to decrease demand. A few research methods are suggested based on the recommendations for future research.
Wildlife trafficking: Focusing on the entire supply chain
Authors: Nataraajan Arthi Shri 
Published: December 2020

AbstractFueled by her first‐hand experiences with caring for wildlife, and the realization that efforts at fighting crimes against wildlife have hitherto been focused mainly on the supply side of wildlife trafficking, the author makes a case for a renewed focus on both the supply and the demand sides as well as the intervening link between them that facilitates such trafficking. After an engaging introduction, she discusses each of the above three parts in detail and concludes that a strategy involving the same intense focus on each of the three parts is sorely needed to eradicate crimes against wildlife. In the process, she argues that the adoption of the “carrot” approach would be far superior to the “stick” approach in achieving long‐term success, and offers specific tactics pertaining to each of the three parts as actionable recommendations.
Thermal Stability of Bio‐Based Aliphatic‐Semiaromatic Copolyester for Melt‐Spun Fibers with Excellent Mechanical Properties
Authors: Zhou Jialiang , Zhu Qingqing , Pan Weinan , Xiang, Hengxue , Hu Zexu , Zhu Meifang 
Published: December 2020

AbstractFlexible aliphatic poly(lactic acid) is introduced into polyethylene terephthalate through copolymerization to prepare biodegradable copolyester, which aims to solve the non‐degradability of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and realize the greening of raw materials. In this work, poly(ethylene terephthalate‐co‐lactic acid) random copolyesters (PETLAs) of lactic acid composition from 10 to 50% is synthesized via one‐pot method. The chemical structure and composition, thermal property, and crystallization property of prepared PETLAs resin are characterized. The results shows that the introduction of LA segment forms random copolyester, and the flexible LA segment results in slight decrease in the glass transition temperatures (Tg), melting point (Tm), and crystallinity (Xc) of the copolyesters. The thermal stability of PETLAs is better, and the initial decomposition temperature of PETLA‐10 can reach 394 °C. The PETLAs resin exhibits good processability, and PETLAs fibers are prepared by melt spinning. The strength of PETLA‐10 fiber can reach 260 MPa after drawing treatment, and the elongation at break can reach 130%. Taking advantage of their features, PETLAs as an innovative bio‐based polymer are expected to achieve ecofriendly applications in the fields of fiber, plastic, and film.
Mechanical properties of small structures built by selective laser melting 316 L stainless steel – a phenomenological approach to improve component design
Authors: Wiesent L. , Schultheiß U. , Lulla P. , Nonn A. , Noster U. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractExperimental investigations are conducted to quantify the influence of specimen thickness and orientation on the mechanical properties of selective laser melted stainless steel 316 L. The results indicate that the mechanical strength and ductility increase with increasing specimen thickness until a saturation value is reached from a specimen thickness of about 2 mm. Specimen orientation dependency is pronounced for thin specimens (<1.5 mm), whereas only small deviations in strength are observed for thicker specimens with orientations of 30°, 45° and 90° to build direction. The mechanical properties of the specimen orientation of 0° to build direction shows great deviation to the other orientations and the smallest overall strength. A reliable design of selective laser melted components should account for specimen thickness and orientation, e. g. by a correction factor. Furthermore, it is recommended to avoid loads vertical (90°) and parallel (0°) to build direction to guarantee higher ductility and strength.
Research on corrosion performance of 6061 aluminum alloy in salt spray environment
Authors: Wang G. , Tuo X. , Kou L. , Zhao W. , Zhu X. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractSalt spray corrosion test was carried out on 6061 aluminum alloy, and quasi‐static tensile test at room temperature was carried out on the sample with universal testing machine. The effect of salt spray corrosion on the mechanical properties of 6061 aluminum alloy was studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and electrochemistry. The corrosion rate of 6061 aluminum alloy was quantitatively characterized by different corrosion parameters. It was found that local corrosion of 6061 aluminum alloy occurred in salt spray environment, mainly pitting corrosion and intergranular corrosion. With the increase of corrosion time, the polarization resistance of 6061 aluminum alloy decreases, and the corrosion rate significantly increases. The average corrosion rate
and the maximum corrosion rate
of 6061 aluminum alloy were characterized by corrosion weight loss and corrosion pit depth. And they can be transformed into each other. The mechanical properties of 6061 aluminum alloy were mainly affected by the depth of corrosion pit. With the increase of corrosion time, the tensile strength and fracture strain decreased, resulting in poor plasticity of the sample. At the same time, the change of elongation of 6061 aluminum alloy can be accurately predicted by the depth of corrosion pit.
Treacher Collins syndrome: Clinical report and retrospective analysis of Chinese patients
Authors: Pan Zhaoyu , Xu Hongen , Chen Bei , Tian Yongan , Zhang Linlin , Zhang Sen , Liu Danhua , Liu Huanfei , Li Ruijun , Hu Xinxin , Guan Jingyuan , Tang Wenxue , Lu Wei 
Published: December 2020

AbstractBackgroundTreacher Collins syndrome‐1 (TCS1; OMIM# 154500) is a rare autosomal dominant disease that is defined by congenital craniofacial dysplasia. Here, we report four sporadic and one familial case of TCS1 in Chinese patients with clinical features presenting as hypoplasia of the zygomatic complex and mandible, downslanting palpebral fissures, coloboma of the lower eyelids, and conductive hearing loss.Materials and MethodsAudiological, radiological, and physical examinations were performed. Targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) was performed to examine the genetics of this disease in five probands, and Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the identified variants. A literature review discusses the pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention of TCS1.ResultsWe identified a novel insertion of c.939_940insA (p.Gly314Argfs*35; NM_001135243.1), a novel deletion of c.1766delC (p.Pro589Leufs*7), two previously reported insertions of c.1999_2000insC (p.Arg667Profs*31) and c.4218_4219insG (p.Ser1407Valfs*23), and one previously reported deletion of c.4369_4373delAAGAA (p.Lys1457Glufs*12) in the TCOF1 gene. All five cases exhibited a degree of interfamilial and intrafamilial phenotypic variability. A review of the literature revealed no clear evidence of a genotype–phenotype correlation in TCS1.ConclusionOur results expand the variant spectrum of TCOF1 and highlight that NGS is essential for the diagnosis of TCS and that genetic counseling is beneficial for guiding prevention.
Chimeric profunda artery perforator ‐ gracilis flap: A computed tomographic angiography study and case report
Authors: Heredero Susana , Falguera‐Uceda María Isabel , Sanjuan‐Sanjuan Alba , Dean Alicia , Solivera Juan 
Published: December 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe possibility of harvesting the profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap in a chimeric configuration together with the innervated gracilis muscle may be a good option for dynamic reconstruction following total glossectomies. In this paper, we present a retrospective radiological study, which evaluates the presence and characteristics of the anatomical variation of the chimeric PAP – gracilis flap.MethodsThe study sample comprised 66 patients (132 legs), 38 men, and 28 women with an average age of 56 ± 2 years old, who underwent head and neck reconstruction with a free flap. Preoperative computed tomographic angiography (CTA) was used for morphologic analysis. We present a case report of a patient with a total glossectomy reconstructed with this flap.ResultsA perforator in the PAP area joining with the main pedicle of the gracilis muscle was found in 38 legs (28.8%). Mean length of the pedicle from the profunda femoral artery to the point where the perforator in the PAP area and the pedicle of the gracilis joined was 3.0 ± 0.3 cm. Differences in the existence of this vascular configuration were not significant comparing groups by sex, BMI, height, side or source vessel. Motion of the new tongue was documented clinically and with electromyography. The patient achieved an intelligible speech and normal diet.ConclusionsPreoperative evaluation is necessary to assess the existence of a perforator in the PAP area joining with the main pedicle of the gracilis muscle. This chimeric flap has been demonstrated useful for dynamic reconstruction of a patient with a total glossectomy.
Transcriptomic responses of porcine cumulus cells to heat exposure during oocytes in vitro maturation
Authors: Liu Jie , He Bin , Yin Chao , Chang Zhanglin , Zhao Ruqian 
Published: December 2020

AbstractThe oocyte is vulnerable to various environmental stressors, including heat exposure. Cumulus‐oocyte complexes (COCs) comprise functional units for oocytes in vitro maturation, and the cumulus cells provide essential supports and protect the oocyte from environmental insults. Heat exposure results in varied consequences in oocyte, presumably due to different responses of cumulus cells to heat exposure. In this study, we examined whether heat exposure of different duration affects porcine oocytes quality differently, and how such effects, if any, relate to transcriptomic profiles of cumulus cells. COCs were heat‐exposed for 4 h (20–24 h, COC4) and 24 h (0–24 h, COC24), respectively, and the quality of oocytes in COC24 group showed significantly impaired with disrupted cumulus expansion and extracellular matrix (ECM) structure. The transcriptomic analysis identified 749 and 1238 differential expression genes (DEGs) in COC4 and COC24, respectively. Moreover, 852 DEGs were found when COC24 was compared with COC4, and the downregulated DEGs were mainly associated with Gene Ontology terms linked with ECM and cell proliferation. In the protein‐protein interaction network, HSPE1, TNFAIP6, COL12A1, and COL18A1 were identified as hub genes playing important roles in heat‐induced transcriptomic responses. These results indicate that impaired cumulus proliferation and ECM structure are responsible for heat‐induced damage in oocytes quality.
Follicular microenvironment: Oxidative stress and adiponectin correlated with steroids hormones in women undergoing in vitro fertilization
Authors: Luti Simone , Fiaschi Tania , Magherini Francesca , Modesti Pietro A. , Piomboni Paola , Semplici Bianca , Morgante Giuseppe , Amoresano Angela , Illiano Anna , Pinto Gabriella , Modesti Alessandra , Gamberi Tania 
Published: December 2020

AbstractResearch has been focused on determining the follicular microenviroment produced by the theca and granulosa cells since the molecular characterisation of this body fluid could lead to the understanding of several fertility problems. Oxidative stress may be one of the factors involved in female infertility since it plays a key role in the modulation of oocyte maturation and finally pregnancy. An increase in oxidative stress is correlated with inflammation and intense research was developed to understand the interaction between inflammation and adiponectin, based on the fact that many adipokines are inflammation related proteins linked to reactive oxygen species production. The aim of this study is to investigate the correlation between total adiponectin levels and oxidative stress amount in the serum and follicular fluid (FF) of women who undergone in vitro fertilization. Moreover we verified the expression of adiponectin in granulosa and cumulus cells. To clarify the predictive value of steroid hormones in human assisted reproduction, twelve steroid hormones in FF and serum, were quantified in a single run liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, by using a multiple reaction monitoring mode and we related the serum and follicular fluids adiponectin levels with the concentration of the investigated steroid hormones.
An artificial neural network‐based method for the optimal control problem governed by the fractional parabolic equation
Authors: Darehmiraki Majid , Rezazadeh Arezou , Ahmadian Ali 
Published: December 2020

AbstractIn this paper, we propose an artificial neural network model (ANN) to solve a partial differential equation (PDE) constrained optimization problem. Here, the discretize then optimize approach is used. At first, the Legendre polynomials are used to discretize the optimization problem and transform it into a quadratic optimization problem with linear constraint. Then an ANN model is proposed to solve the obtained quadratic optimization problem. Finally, several examples are presented to illustrate the abilities and efficiency of the proposed approach.
Evidence of permafrost in the Paleoproterozoic (c. 1.9 Ga) of Central Sweden
Authors: Vandenberghe Jef , Kuipers Gerrit , Beunk Frank F. , Yi Keewook , van der Wateren Frederik M. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractThis paper reports on an ice‐wedge pseudomorph that formed and is preserved in metavolcanic host material that was later transformed to metamorphic solid bedrock. It has been dated to 1,895 ± 5 Ma by U–Pb geochronology of zircon in the bedrock, an Early Proterozoic age. Detailed observation of the deformation structures of the wedge points to an ice‐wedge pseudomorph based on typical downbending around the wedge and vertical lamination in the inner part of the wedge due to slumping into the wedge after the ice melted, along with a few remains of lateral pressure structures (such as folds and upturned strata) in the adjacent host sediment. The interpretation of the wedge structure as an ice‐wedge pseudomorph confirms previous work on this topic. This ice‐wedge pseudomorph demonstrates for the first time the existence of permafrost atc. 1.9 Ga. It indicates that permafrost and associated conditions were present in lowlands at low latitude at discrete time intervals early in Earth’s history. Although some caution should be applied, mean annual air temperature appears to have been slightly below the freezing point at that time.
Sedation for bronchoscopy in children: A prospective randomized double‐blinded trial
Authors: Tschiedel Eva , Eckerland Maximilian , Felderhoff‐Mueser Ursula , Dohna‐Schwake Christian , Stehling Florian 
Published: December 2020

AbstractIntroductionIn pediatric patients, flexible bronchoscopy requires deep sedation. Different sedation regimes are common, but only some of them include opioids. Due to their antitussive effect, the use of short‐acting opioids may be beneficial for this particular indication, but additional respiratory depression may lead to an increase in adverse events. Here, we systematically compared sedation regimes in children undergoing flexible bronchoscopy with either propofol alone, or a combination of propofol and remifentanil. The primary outcome parameter was the frequency of coughing episodes during the intervention. Secondary outcome parameters were frequency and types of complications, patient satisfaction, examiner satisfaction, and recovery time after finishing the sedation.MethodsFifty children aged 1–17 years undergoing flexible bronchoscopy under deep sedation with propofol were randomly assigned to two groups: PR receiving propofol and remifentanil and PP receiving propofol only. Sedation depth was predefined as Comfort Score 10–13.ResultsWe found significantly less coughing episodes ([med (IQR)] PR: 0.73 (0.28–2.45)/min; PP: 1.98 (1.26–3.12)/min; p = .010) and shorter recovery time in Group PR (PR: 13.5 (8–17.5) min; PP: 21.0 (14–27) min; p = .011). Examiner's satisfaction was higher in Group PR (PR: 10 (8–10); PP: 9 (7–9); p = .012). The number of adverse events, patient satisfaction, and required propofol dose during the intervention did not differ between groups.ConclusionWe suggest the combination of propofol with remifentanil instead of using propofol alone in pediatric procedural sedation for flexible bronchoscopy.