bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Eliminating Delayed Cracks in Deep-Drawn SUS304 Cups Under Wider Range and Lower Magnitude of Blank Holding Forces Using Tin Coated Die
Authors: Tan Chin Joo , Phoo Yoong Hau 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The effect of TiN coated die on eliminating delayed cracks in deep drawing processes of stainless steel SUS304 cylindrical cups under elevated blank holding forces (BHF) using a commercial lubricant at room temperature is investigated in the experiment. For comparison, the experiment is repeated using an uncoated and finely polished die under the same conditions. The results shows that the crack-free BHF range for the coated and the uncoated dies are 5~10 kN and 12 kN, respectively. Both the magnitude and range of the crack-free BHF are successfully lowered and enlarged by applying TiN coating to the die surface. Lower magnitude and wider range for BHF are preferred in the industries as it is difficult to maintain a high, constant and precise BHF during the deep drawing process using coil springs or die cushions. The elimination of the cracks is mainly due to the decrease in amount of strain-induced martensite resulting from the lower amount of wall thickening, particularly in the valley points along the cup earring profiles. The improved tribological performance by the coating enhances the radial flow of the materials into the die cavity resulting in lower amount of wall thickening. The chance for delayed cracks is reduced with decreasing amount of wall thcikening. Overall, the amount of tensile residual stresses along the outer surface of the cup, particularly in the upper portion is reduced with the coated die due to its low BHF. Therefore, the risk for the cracks is reduced.
Poly(Lactic Acid)/Poly(Butylene Succinate) Dual-Layer Membranes With Cellulose Nanowhisker for Heavy Metal Ion Separation
Authors: Kian Lau K , Jawaid Mohammad , Nasef Mohamed Mahmoud 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
In this study, poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) dual-layer membranes filled with cellulose nanowhisker (CNWs), were fabricated by employing an integrated method combining water vapor-induced and crystallization-induced phase inversions. Four membranes (denoted as C-neat, C-I, C-II, and C-III) loaded with CNWs in the range of 0-3 wt% were prepared and characterized using various materials research aspects. The use of CNWs fillers was found to synergize the precipitation of the polymer layers in the integrated water vapor-induced and crystallization-induced method. With morphological examination, the C-III membrane showed prominent and well-laminated two layers structure, evidencing the great precipitating effect of 3 wt% CNWs on the crystallization the polymeric layers. The increase in CNWs loadings was found to improve the membrane porosity with, which was accompanied by a decrease in the pore size. The heat resistance of C-neat membrane was enhanced by CNWs loading of 1 wt% (C-I) whereas it decreased with loadings of 2 and 3 wt% (C-II and C-III) due to flaming behaviour of sulphated nanocellulose. Furthermore, The C-III membrane displayed the best mechanical properties in with respect to tensile strength, elongation at break and Young’s modulus compared to other membrane samples. For wastewater filtration performance, the continuous operation test showed that C-III membrane exhibited the highest removal efficiency for both Co2+ and Ni2+ metal ions reaching 83 and 84%, respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that CNWs filled dual-layer membranes have a strong potential for future development for the removal of heavy metal ions from wastewater streams.
SLC17A9 Is a Novel Prognostic Biomarker Correlated With Immune Infiltrates in Human Lung Adenocarcinoma and Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gao Yan , Chen Yi-Jia , Li Fuyan , Wu Ruimin , Zeng Daobing , Tan Fan , Liu Xusheng , Li Xiaohui , Li Yang , Su Shan-Chun , Yang Jianwei , Zhou Lumeng , Ke Changbin , Pei Zhijun 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background
Overexpression of vesicular nucleotide transporter (SLC17A9) has been found in different types of cancers. Nonetheless, little is known about its influence on lung cancers including human lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC).
Methods
Integrative analysis of SLC17A9 and other solute carrier family 17 genes (SLC17A1-8) was performed in patients with LUAD and LUSC based on The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Real-time PCR, western blots, MTS assay, EdU assay, ATP production assays and cell cycle analysis were applied to determine the effect and mechanism of SLC17A9 knockdown in LUAD cells.
Results
Compared with normal tissue, two SLC17 genes (SLC17A5 and SLC17A9) exhibited a distinctly different expression pattern in LUAD and LUSC. The expression of SLC17A3/7/8/9 expression was significantly correlated with worse overall survival (p < 0.05) in LUAD. Conversely, SLC17A1/2/4/6/9 expression was correlated with poorer OS (p < 0.05) in LUSC. ROC analysis suggested that the area under the curve of most SLC17 family genes was higher than 0.5. Meanwhile, multiple types of genetic alterations in SLC17 family genes were observed in tumor samples. Gene set enrichment analysis GSEA and protein-protein interaction results revealed that oncogenic signaling pathways and biological regulation, metabolic process, hallmark of myc targets, DNA repair, coagulation and complement were linked to SLC17A9 upregulation. Moreover, SLC17A9 knockdown significantly inhibited cell proliferation and ATP levels by affecting Myc, MFN2, STAT3, Cytochrome C and P2X1 expression in A549 cells. Specifically, SLC17A9 expression correlated negatively with overall survival and positively with most LUSC immune cells. SLC17A9 expression has correlations with infiltrating levels of B cells, CD4 + T cells, M1 macrophages, natural killer cells, Th1, Th2, Tfh, Th17 and Treg cells, as well as PD-1, CTLA4, and LAG3 of T cell exhaustion in LUAD.
Conclusions
Together, SLC17A9 could potentially serve as a prognostic biomarker correlated with immune infiltrates in LUAD and LUSC.
Modelling Clamping Force Deflection in Dexel-Based Material Removal Simulations
Authors: Brecher Christian , Loba Matthäus , Fey Marcel 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Machining simulations of material removal that predict workpiece quality are a key factor in gaining an understanding of the possible causes of manufacturing defects. Particularly in the case of thin-walled workpieces, as are frequently produced in the aerospace industry, the workpiece stiffness is of utmost importance. Form deviations on the final workpiece can result due to the the process force or the clamping situation. This article presents a method for modelling the deformation due to the clamping force in dexel-based material removal simulations. To prevent distortion of the dexel model, triangulated surface meshes are generated separately for the start and end points of a dexel field by means of a Delaunay triangulation for the final contour. With the help of an FE simulation of the near contour state, the resulting displacements for the corner points of the triangles are determined and then inversely displaced. Subsequently, the new start and end points of the machined dexels are determined through a 2D interpolation. The method is validated for flatness and roundness deviations using two specimen workpieces. It shows that the prediction can be significantly improved, especially for thin-walled components.
A Clinical Prediction Tool for Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Liu Hui , Qiu Suishan , Chen Minghao , lyu Jun , Yu Guangchao , Xue Lianfang 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background To explore the risk factors of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-PE) infection through urine samples of hospitalized patients and establish a predictive model to improve treatment outcomes.MethodsThis retrospective study included all patients with an Enterobacteriaceae-positive urine sample at the first affiliated hospital of Jinan university from January 2018 to December 2019. Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of ESBL-PE were analyzed, and multivariate analysis of related factors was performed. From these, a nomogram was established to predict the possibility of ESBL-PE infection. Simultaneously, susceptibility testing of a broad array of carbapenem antibiotics was performed on ESBL-PE cultures to explore possible alternative treatment options.ResultsOf the total 874 patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs), 272 (31.1%) were ESBL-PE positive. In the predictive analysis, five variables were identified as independent risk factors for ESBL-PE infection: male gender (OR=1.607, 95% CI 1.066-2.416), older age (OR=4.100, 95% CI 1.678-12.343), a hospital stay in preceding 3 months (OR=1.872, 95% CI 1.141-3.067), invasive urological procedure (OR=1.810, 95% CI 1.197-2.729), and antibiotic use within the previous 3 months (OR 0.546, 95% CI 0.314-0.948). In multivariate analysis, the data set was divided into a training set of 611 patients and a validation set of 263 patients The model developed to predict ESBL-PE infection was effective, with the AuROC of 0.650 (95% CI 0.577-0.725). Among the antibiotics tested, several showed very high effectiveness against ESBL-PE: amikacin (85.7%), carbapenems (83.8%), tigecycline (97.1%) and polymyxin (98.2%). ConclusionsThe nomogram is useful for estimating a bacteremic patient’s likelihood of infection with ESBL-PE. It could improve clinical decision making and enable more efficient empirical treatment. Empirical treatment may be informed by the results of the antibiotic susceptibility testing.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Vinasse Treatment Alternatives Through Process Simulation: A Case Study of Cuban Distillery
Authors: Llerena Arletis Cruz , Ones Osney Perez , de Cárdenas Lourdes Zumalacárregui , Ríos José Luis Pérez de los 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Purpose

Vinasse is one of the organic industrial effluents with major polluting effect. The objective of this work was to perform a techno-economic assessment of vinasses treatment alternatives for valorization of this waste through process simulation with Aspen Hysys v10.0.
Methods

Four alternatives were studied: (A_1) incineration and electricity generation, (A_2) desalinization, (A_3) anaerobic digestion and electricity generation and (A_4) drying. The selected packages for the evaluation and prediction of properties were: Lee-Kesler-Plöcker and NBS Steam, NRTL-Ideal, Peng-Robinson-Stryjer-Vera and NBS Steam and NRTL-Ideal respectively; the validation in these cases was carried out with data reported in the literature. The economic evaluation was carried according to the changes that each alternative determines in each one of the elements of effective cash flow comparing with the actual condition.
Results

With the alternative A_1, fertilizers ashes are obtained removing all the residual and the energy generation. By the alternative A_2, fertilizers salts and desalinate vinasses (for animal food) were obtained. By the alternative A_3, energy is generated from biogas. By the alternative A_4, dry vinasse is obtained which is used as fertilizer and animal food.
Conclusion

The polluting effect of the vinasse can be reduced with the proposed treatment alternatives. It was showed that the alternatives are feasible, being the alternative A_1 the best, with a NPV of $ 1.29 MMUSD, IRR 25.5% and DPBP 2.7 years. Process simulation are a valuable supporting tool when making decisions in investment projects for valorization of vinasse from the ethanol industry.
Acentrosomal spindle morphogenesis is dependent on the unconventional TPX2 family protein TPXL3 and a Aurora kinase in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Deng Xingguang , Higaki Takumi , Lin Honghui , Lee Yuh-Ru Julie , Liu Bo 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The α Aurora kinase serves as an essential mitotic regulator of spindle assembly in Arabidopsis thaliana. This indispensable function was thought to be dependent on an evolutionarily conserved targeting factor known as TPX2. However, our previous work indicated that the canonical TPX2 protein was dispensable but the plant specific TPX2 family protein TPXL3 became essential in A. thaliana. Here, we found that the TPXL3 polypeptide contains a microtubule-binding domain following the N-terminal Aurora-binding and activation motif, and its TPX2 signature domain with an importin-binding motif is followed by a novel short C-terminus. To test the hypothesis that TPXL3 dictated the essential mitotic function of α Aurora, we generated artificial microRNA lines in which TPXL3 expression was compromised. The amiR-TPXL3 mutants exhibited phenotypes of TPXL3 expression-correlated growth retardation. Due to the compromised TPXL3 expression, α Aurora delocalized from spindle microtubules and diffused in the cytoplasm. Such a phenotype was concomitant with defects in spindle morphogenesis as represented by disorganized spindle poles. A functional TPXL3-GFP fusion protein colocalized with α Aurora by exhibiting a highly dynamic cell cycle-dependent localization pattern highlighted by prominent appearance on the prophase nuclear envelope, spindle microtubules with biases towards poles, and reforming nuclear envelope during telophase and cytokinesis. However, TPXL3 was largely absent from phragmoplast microtubules that exhibited prominent γ-tubulin association. Finally, we found that the C-terminal domain was dispensable while other domains are required for its mitotic function. Hence, our discovery of the TPXL3 function shifted the TPX2-centered paradigm of mitotic kinase regulation in plants.
miR-138 from Adipose-Derived Stem-Cell Exosomes Accelerates Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats Through Targeting SIRT1/PTEN Signaling to Promote Angiogenesis and Fibrosis
Authors: Li Xue , Hu Nan , Zhang Miaomiao , Han Jianhong , Sun Yi , Yang Hualan , Li Maoquan 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Exosome (Exo) secretion by adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) promotes cutaneous wound healing by transfer of bioactive molecules. miR-138 is a micro (mi)RNA that stimulates endothelial progenitor cells and promotes proliferation and locomotion of human scar fibroblasts (HSFs). However, the underlying molecular mechanism is unclear. Methods: miR-138 activity in Exo-mediated healing was investigated by subcutaneous injection of exosomes isolated with ultracentrifugation from control ADSCs or ADSCs expressing miR-138 into full-thickness skin wounds in a rat diabetes model. Wound healing was evaluated by wound closure rate, histological evaluation, and immunofluorescence staining. Cultures of HSFs and human mammary epithelial cells (HMECs) were treated with Exos from wild-type and miR-138-modified ADSCs under high glucose conditions (HG). Cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured with cell counting kit (CCK)-8 assay and flow cytometry. Cell migration was assayed in Transwell chambers, and the effect of miR-138 on Exo-mediated angiogenesis and protein expression were evaluated. The miR-138 target was identified with a luciferase reporter assay. Results: ADSC-Exos were incorporated by endothelial cells and HSFs, and miR-138 enhanced cell proliferation and migration and suppressed apoptosis under HG conditions. Exos promoted endothelial tubule formation by HSFs, and western blotting showed that miR-138 mediated the therapeutic effects by reversing SIRT1/PTEN-mediated PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 signaling inhibition. The luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-138 interacted with the 3'-UTR of SIRT1 to suppress SIRT1 mRNA expression. Injection of miR-138-enriched Exos into skin wounds accelerated re-epithelialization, reduced scar width, and enhanced angiogenesis. Conclusions: In conclusion, miR-138-enriched Exos promoted wound healing in a rat diabetes model by targeting SIRT1, and their effects in promoting soft tissue wound healing warrant further study.
The Results of Recurrent Patellar Dislocation Treatment With MPFL Reconstruction in Adolescents With a Minimum Three-year Follow-up: A Prospective Study
Authors: Małecki Krzysztof , Flont Paweł , Beczkowski Jacek , Stelmach Wojciech , Niedzielski Kryspin Ryszard 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
PurposeThe aim of this prospective study is to perform a clinical and radiological assessment of the results of surgical treatment in a homogenous group of adolescents with recurrent patellar dislocation (RPD), using medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction as the basic technique. MethodsTwenty-two patients reported to the follow-up examination after at least three years, including four patients who underwent bilateral surgery (26 knees). The mean age at the time of the surgery was 15.4 years. The subjects were asked to complete the Lysholm-Tegner Knee Scale and the Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale before surgery and after follow-up. Based on the imaging results, the Caton-Deschamps Index (CDI), congruence angle (CA), patellofemoral angle (PFA) and Wiberg classification of the patella shape were assessed. ResultsTwo incidents of patellar redislocation was noted. Both the Lysholm-Tegner and Kujala Scale scores significantly improved after follow-up (p<0.001). CDI did not change significantly (p=0.681). The values of both PFA and CA significantly decreased after surgery (p<0.001). An incorrect congruence angle (patellar shift) was present in 22 knees pre-op and ten post-op (p=0.002). Increased patellofemoral angle (patellar tilt) was present in 21 knees pre-op and seven post-op (p<0.001). A statistically significant correlation was demonstrated between PFA and both Lyscholm-Tegner and Kujala score (in both p<0.001, r=-0.5). A slight, but significant, correlation was found between CA and Kujala score (p=0.008, r= -0.036). ConclusionSurgical treatment causes a considerable improvement in the functional assessment of patients, as well as anatomical conditions within the patellofemoral joint.ClinicalTrials.gov record No PMMHRI-BCO.34/2019ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03983213https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03983213Registered 06/12/2019 - Retrospectively registered
Bioactive Coating With Low Reactive Sources for Application as Multi-nutrient Fertilizer Granules
Authors: Majaron Vinícius F. , Silva Marisa G da , Bortoletto-Santos Ricardo , Klaic Rodrigo , Ribeiro Sidney J.L. , Polito Wagner L. , Bevilaqua Denise , Farinas Cristiane S. , Ribeiro Caue 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Fertilization is essential to provide suitable conditions for plant development and crop productivity, but the environmental cost of fertilizer production is a drawback for achieving a sustainable agriculture. Using unprocessed (raw) nutrient sources such as elemental sulfur (S0) and mineral oxides (ZnO, MnO, CuO) as fertilizers reduces the environmental impact, although they are not readily available to plants. Thus, we developed a polymeric coating material based on gelatinized starch loaded with S0 and oxides, and selected microorganisms – Aspergillus niger and Aciditiobacillus thiooxidans – aiming at a multi-nutrient fertilizer in which the biological components improve the solubility of the low reactive nutrient sources. The acidifying capacity of both microorganisms led to a synergic release and increased the availability of micronutrients and the elemental sulfur oxidation rate. For instance, the polymeric coating composition enabled a sulfate release of up to 76.4 and 71.3% for A. niger and A. thiooxidans, respectively. This innovative system can effectively supply nutrients to plants through the use of cheap and low reactivity nutrient sources with the advantage that it can be applied on currently used fertilizer granules, making easier the adoption by producers.
Engine Behaviour Characterisation of Roselle Biodiesel Through Experimental and Empirical Method
Authors: Verma Tikendra Nath , Rajak Upendra , Salam Satishchandra , Afzal Asif , Manokar A. Muthu , Aabid Abdul , Baig Muneer 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Persistent increase in demand and depletion of world fossil fuel reserve has necessitated the lookout for alternative fuels. One such indigenous biodiesel with significant potential is the biodiesel extracted from Roselle whose technical feasibility to operate with compression ignition engine is investigated in this study. Experimental and empirical methodologies had been employed to characterise the fuel blends while operating at engine loads of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%, and with fuel injection timings of 19°, 21°, 23°, 25° and 27° bTDC. Results showed that for 20% blend, with advanced injection timing from 19° bTDC to 27° bTDC at full load, brake specific fuel consumption and exhaust gas temperature for 20% blend was higher by 15.84% and 4.60%, while decrease in brake thermal efficiency by 4.4%. Also, 18.89% reduction in smoke, 5.26% increase in CO2 and 12.94% increase in NOx were observed. In addition, an empirical model was developed for full range characterisation. The artificial neural network model thus developed to characterise all the 10 variables was able to predict satisfactorily with r-squared value of 0.9980 ± 0.0011. Further, high correlation amongst certain variables indicated to plausible empirically reduced models.
Extracellular Vesicles from Adipose-derived Stem Cells Promote Microglia M2 Polarization and Neurological Recovery after Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Hu Xiaowen , Pan Jiaji , Li Yongfang , Jiang Yixu , Zheng Haoran , Shi Rubing , Zhang Qi , Liu Chang , Tian Hengli , Zhang Zhijun , Tang Yaohui , Yang Guo-Yuan , Wang Yongting 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and their extracellular vesicles (EVs) have therapeutic potential in ischemic brain injury, but the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. The current study aimed to explore the contribution of miRNAs in ADSC-EVs to the treatment of cerebral ischemia. Methods: After the intravenous injection of ADSC-EVs, therapeutic efficacy was evaluated by neurobehavioral tests and brain atrophy volume. The polarization of microglia was assessed by immunostaining and qPCR. We further performed miRNA sequencing of ADSC-EVs and analyzed the relationship between the upregulated miRNAs in ADSC-EVs and microglial polarization-related proteins using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Results: The results showed that ADSC-EVs reduced brain atrophy volume, improved neuromotor and cognitive functions after mouse ischemic stroke. The loss of oligodendrocytes was attenuated after ADSC-EVs injection. The number of blood vessels, as well as newly proliferated endothelial cells in the peri-ischemia area were higher in the ADSC-EVs treated group than that in the PBS group. In addition, ADSC-EVs regulated the polarization of microglia, resulting in increased repair-promoting M2 phenotype and decreased pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype. Finally, STAT1 and PTEN were highlighted as two downstream targets of up-regulated miRNAs in ADSC-EVs among 85 microglia/macrophage polarization related proteins by IPA. The inhibition of STAT1 and PTEN by ADSC-EVs were confirmed in cultured microglia. Conclusions: In summary, ADSC-EVs reduced ischemic brain injury, which was associated with the regulation of microglial polarization. miRNAs in ADSC-EVs contributed to their function in regulating microglial polarization by targeting PTEN and STAT1.