bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of High-Entropy Alloys Using a Combination of Detonation Spraying and Spark Plasma Sintering: A Case Study Using the Al-Fe-Co-Ni-Cu System
Authors: Batraev Igor S. , Ulianitsky Vladimir Yu. , Shtertser Alexandr A. , Dudina Dina V. , Ivanyuk Konstantin V. , Kvashnin Vyacheslav I. , Lukyanov Yaroslav L. , Samodurova Marina N. , Trofimov Evgeny A.
Published: August 2023

The use of pre-alloyed powders as high-entropy alloy (HEA) coating precursors ensures a predetermined (unaltered) elemental composition of the coating with regard to the feedstock powder. At the same time, it is interesting to tackle a more challenging task: to form alloy coatings from powder blends (not previously alloyed). The powder-blend-based route of coating formation eliminates the need to use atomization or ball milling equipment for powder preparation and allows for the introduction of additives into the material in a flexible manner. In this work, for the first time, a HEA was obtained using detonation spraying (DS) followed by spark plasma sintering (SPS). A powder mixture with a nominal composition of 10Al-22.5Fe-22.5Co-22.5Ni-22.5Cu (at.%) was detonation-sprayed to form a multicomponent metallic coating on a steel substrate. The elemental composition of the deposited layer was (9 ± 1)Al-(10 ± 1)Fe-(20 ± 1)Co-(34 ± 1)Ni-(27 ± 1)Cu (at.%), which is different from that of the feedstock powder because of the differences in the deposition efficiencies of the metals during DS. Despite the compositional deviations, the deposited layer was still suitable as a precursor for a HEA with a configurational entropy of ~1.5R, where R is the universal gas constant. The subsequent SPS treatment of the substrate/coating assembly was carried out at 800–1000 °C at a uniaxial pressure of 40 MPa. The SPS treatment of the deposited layer at 1000 °C for 20 min was sufficient to produce an alloy with a single-phase face-centered cubic structure and a porosity of <1%. Interestingly, the hardness values of the as-sprayed and SPS-treated coatings were close to each other (~320 HV0.3). The hardness of the coatings measured in two perpendicular directions did not differ significantly. The features of the DS–SPS route of the formation of HEA coatings and its potential applications are discussed.
Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Microstructure and Transport Properties of K3AlF6-2.2NaF-AlF3 System
Authors: Wang Jingkun , Chen Can , Zhang Hongliang , Li Jiaqi
Published: August 2023

Researching the aluminum molten salt system has always been challenging because of the high temperature and significant corrosion seen in the aluminum electrolysis industry. This paper employs ab initio molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the ionic structure and transport features of the K3AlF6-2.2NaF-AlF3 molten system. The findings indicate that the primary Al-F complex ion species present in K-rich molten salts are [AlF4]−, [AlF5]2−, and [AlF6]3−. The fluorine atom located at the bridge site constitutes around 3% of the overall composition, suggesting a rather modest degree of polymerization for the ionic structure. The relative diffusion rates of the ions in the system are as follows: sodium (Na) has the highest diffusion ability, followed by potassium (K), fluoride (F), and aluminum (Al). With the increase in K3AlF6 concentration, the distribution and diffusion coefficient of complex ions in the melt change, resulting in a decrease in the transport performance of the entire system. These fundamental research findings can contribute to the optimization of the aluminum electrolysis industry in the future.
Novel Artificial Intelligence-Based Approaches for Ab Initio Structure Determination and Atomic Model Building for Cryo-Electron Microscopy
Authors: DiIorio Megan C. , Kulczyk Arkadiusz W.
Published: August 2023

Single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has emerged as the prevailing method for near-atomic structure determination, shedding light on the important molecular mechanisms of biological macromolecules. However, the inherent dynamics and structural variability of biological complexes coupled with the large number of experimental images generated by a cryo-EM experiment make data processing nontrivial. In particular, ab initio reconstruction and atomic model building remain major bottlenecks that demand substantial computational resources and manual intervention. Approaches utilizing recent innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) technology, particularly deep learning, have the potential to overcome the limitations that cannot be adequately addressed by traditional image processing approaches. Here, we review newly proposed AI-based methods for ab initio volume generation, heterogeneous 3D reconstruction, and atomic model building. We highlight the advancements made by the implementation of AI methods, as well as discuss remaining limitations and areas for future development.
Effect of Total Dose Irradiation on Parasitic BJT in 130 nm PDSOI MOSFETs
Authors: Jia Yupeng , Zhang Zhengxuan , Bi Dawei , Hu Zhiyuan , Zou Shichang
Published: August 2023

In this work, the effects of total dose irradiation on the parasitic bipolar junction transistor (BTJ) in 130 nm PDSOI MOSFETs were investigated. The experimental results demonstrate that irradiation-induced oxide-trap charges can modify the E-B junction barrier, and thereby make the common-emitter gain β0 of the parasitic BJT in NMOS device increase, while decreasing it in a PMOS device. Additionally, irradiation-generated oxide-trap charges in shallow trench isolation (STI) elevate the surface electrostatic potential of the gate above the STI sidewall, thus providing an additional channel from the emitter to the collector. Moreover, these charges may generate parasitic reverse conductive paths at the STI/Si interface under high dose irradiation, thereby enhancing the leakage current in the front gate channel and diminishing the significance of the parasitic BJT. Under irradiation, the electric field intensity difference between two biases leads to higher β0 of the parasitic BJT in PG-biased devices than in ON-biased ones. Furthermore, the lifting effect of irradiation on β0 increases in wide or short channel irradiated devices, which can be explained using simulations and an emitter current crowding effect model.
Molecular Profiling, Characterization and Antimicrobial Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Calvatia gigantea and Mycena leaiana Against Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens
Authors: Khan Sayab , Fiaz Muhammad , Alvi Iqbal Ahmad , Ikram Muhammad , Yasmin Humaira , Ahmad Junaid , Ullah Amin , Niaz Zeeshan , Hayat Shubana , Ahmad Ajaz , Kaushik Prashant , Farid Arshad
Published: August 2023

The use of natural products isolated from mushrooms against infection, cancer diseases and other oxidative-stress-related diseases is one of the cornerstones of modern medicine. Therefore, we tried to establish a combination of medicinal mushrooms and nanotechnology possibly with the field of medicine for the development of antibacterial agents against these MDR strains. The aim of the research was to understand the molecular identification, characterization and antibacterial action of Calvatia gigantea and Mycena leaiana. The identification of fruiting body species via morpho-anatomical and molecular methods was necessary to analyze the genetic variability and phylogenetic relationships of mushrooms. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Calvatia from Hunza, Pakistan, exhibited 98% resemblance to the previously discovered Langermannia gigantean (DQ112623) and L. gigantean (LN714562) from northern Europe, and Mycena (Pakistan) showed a 97% similarity to M. leaiana (MF686520) and M. leaiana (MW448623) from the USA. UV-vis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used for AgNPs’ characterization. The UV-vis absorption peak of 500–600 nm indicates the AgNPs’ presence. XRD results determined Calvatia gigantea AgNPs were nanocrystals and Mycena leaiana seems to be amorphous. In addition, SEM results showed the cubic morphology of C. gigantea with a diameter of 65 nm, and the FTIR spectra of fruiting body revealed the presence of functional groups—carboxyl, nitro, and hydroxyl—in AgNPs, which catalyzed the reduction of Ag+ to Ag0. Further antibacterial activity of mushrooms against MDR strains was determined via agar well diffusion assay, and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was estimated by qualitative experimentation using the broth dilution method. All experiments were conducted in triplicate. The results showed that the mushroom AgNPs, along with their synergy and nano-composites (with the exception of Ethyl-acetate), were shown to have zones of inhibition from 4 mm to 29 mm against multidrug-resistant pathogens such as Acinetobacter baumannii, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus mirabilis, Enterobacter cloacae and Escherichia coli. The mushroom composites were active against most of the tested microorganisms whilst the lowest MIC value (10–40 mg/mL) was recorded against MDR strains. Hence, the present study suggested the possibility of employing compounds present in mushrooms for the development of new antibacterial agents, as well as efflux pump inhibitors.
Do People Want the ‘New Normal’? A Mixed Method Investigation of Young Person, Parent, and Clinician Experience and Preferences for Eating Disorder Treatment Delivery in the Post-COVID-19 World
Authors: Baudinet Julian , Konstantellou Anna , Hambleton Ashlea , Bialluch Katrin , Hurford Georgina , Stewart Catherine S.
Published: August 2023

Eating disorder treatment was predominantly provided online during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has continued into the post-pandemic world. This mixed method study explored young person, parent/caregiver, and clinician experiences of child and adolescent eating disorder treatment. In total, 90 participants (25 young people, 49 parents/caregivers, and 16 clinicians) completed online surveys about the experience of online working. Data were compared to similar data collected by the same service earlier in the pandemic. The results show that preferences are largely unchanged since 2020; online treatment is considered helpful and acceptable by all groups. Nevertheless, face-to-face assessment sessions (young people: 52.2%; and parents/caregivers: 68.9%) and final sessions (young people: 82.6%; and parents/caregivers: 82.2%) were preferred compared to online. There was also a preference for early treatment sessions to either be always or mostly face-to-face (young people: 65.2%; and parents/caregivers: 73.3%). The middle and latter parts of treatment were a time when preferences shifted slightly to a more hybrid mode of delivery. Participants reported finding engagement with the therapist (young people: 70.6%; and parents/caregivers: 52.5%) easier during face-to-face treatment. Stepping away from the binary of online or face-to-face, the current data suggest that a hybrid and flexible model is a way forward with current findings providing insights into how to structure this.
A High-Phosphorus Diet Moderately Alters the Lipidome and Transcriptome in the Skeletal Muscle of Adult Mice
Authors: Grundmann Sarah M. , Ress Kerstin , Zimmermann Lea , Höring Marcus , Liebisch Gerhard , Most Erika , Ringseis Robert , Eder Klaus
Published: August 2023

A high phosphorus intake has been associated with various metabolic disorders, including chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Recent studies have demonstrated the effects of dietary phosphorus on lipid and glucose metabolism. This study investigated the impact of a high-phosphorus diet on mouse skeletal muscle lipid composition and gene transcription. Adult male mice (n = 12/group) received either a diet with an adequate (0.3%) or a high (1.2%) phosphorus concentration for 6 weeks. The lipidome analysis showed that among the 17 analyzed lipid classes, the concentrations of three classes were reduced in the high phosphorus group compared to the adequate phosphorus group. These classes were phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), and lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) (p < 0.05). Out of the three hundred and twenty-three individual lipid species analyzed, forty-nine showed reduced concentrations, while three showed increased concentrations in the high phosphorus group compared to the adequate phosphorus group. The muscle transcriptome analysis identified 142 up- and 222 down-regulated transcripts in the high phosphorus group compared to the adequate phosphorus group. Gene set enrichment analysis identified that genes that were up-regulated in the high phosphorus group were linked to the gene ontology terms “mitochondria” and “Notch signaling pathway”, whereas genes that were down-regulated were linked to the “PI3K-AKT pathway”. Overall, the effects of the high-phosphorus diet on the muscle lipidome and transcriptome were relatively modest, but consistently indicated an impact on lipid metabolism.
Malnutrition and Associated Factors in Acute and Subacute Stroke Patients with Dysphagia
Authors: Yoon Jiyong , Baek Soyeong , Jang Yunjeong , Lee Chang Han , Lee Eun Shin , Byun Hayoung , Oh Min-Kyun
Published: August 2023

Most patients with stroke suffer from complications and these include dysphagia. Dysphagia can cause malnutrition, and malnutrition affects prognosis and recovery. However, there is a lack of accurate studies on the nutritional status of stroke patients with dysphagia and its associated factors in different phases of stroke. This study retrospectively investigated 620 stroke patients who underwent a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) due to dysphagia, from March 2018 to February 2021. The study aimed to evaluate the nutritional state and associated factors of malnutrition in acute and subacute stroke patients with dysphagia. Serum albumin and percentage of current weight to ideal weight were used to determine nutritional status. Malnutrition was observed in 58.9 and 78.9% of acute and subacute stroke patients. Exact logistic regression analysis revealed that old age and high penetration–aspiration scale score were significantly associated factors for malnutrition in patients with acute stroke. Old age, stroke history, bilateral hemiplegia, high modified Rankin score, low Korean Mini-Mental State Examination, pneumonia, and high functional dysphagia score were significantly associated factors for malnutrition in patients with subacute stroke. Patients with these associated factors in each phase of stroke require active nutritional assessment and care to decrease the risk of malnutrition.
Suaeda glauca Attenuates Liver Fibrosis in Mice by Inhibiting TGFβ1-Smad2/3 Signaling in Hepatic Stellate Cells
Authors: Hong You-Jung , Kim Gil-Hwan , Park Yongdo , Jo Hye-Jin , Nam Min-Woo , Kim Dong-Gu , Cho Hwangeui , Shim Hyun-Joo , Jin Jong-Sik , Rho Hyunsoo , Han Chang-Yeob
Published: August 2023

Chronic liver injury due to various hepatotoxic stimuli commonly leads to fibrosis, which is a crucial factor contributing to liver disease-related mortality. Despite the potential benefits of Suaeda glauca (S. glauca) as a natural product, its biological and therapeutic effects are barely known. This study investigated the effects of S. glauca extract (SGE), obtained from a smart farming system utilizing LED lamps, on the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and the development of liver fibrosis. C57BL/6 mice received oral administration of either vehicle or SGE (30 or 100 mg/kg) during CCl4 treatment for 6 weeks. The supplementation of SGE significantly reduced liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 in mice as evidenced by histological changes and a decrease in collagen accumulation. SGE treatment also led to a reduction in markers of HSC activation and inflammation as well as an improvement in blood biochemical parameters. Furthermore, SGE administration diminished fibrotic responses following acute liver injury. Mechanistically, SGE treatment prevented HSC activation and inhibited the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Smad2/3, which are induced by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in HSCs. Our findings indicate that SGE exhibits anti-fibrotic effects by inhibiting TGFβ1-Smad2/3 signaling in HSCs.
Sedentary Activities and Food Intake among Children and Adolescents in the Zhejiang Province of China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zou Yan , Huang Lichun , He Mengjie , Zhao Dong , Su Danting , Zhang Ronghua
Published: August 2023

Background: Sedentary behavior may affect the types of food consumed in children and adolescents’ daily diets. Previous published studies are limited to local surveys. This study aimed to explore the relationship between sedentary behavior and food intake among children and adolescents. Methods: A stratified sampling technique was employed in the present cross-sectional study. Demographic characteristics, sedentary behavior, transportation modes, and food intake were investigated. Results: We found that children and adolescents who watched movies or TV programs online or on their smartphones on weekends and who chatted online on weekends, including on QQ (an instant messaging software service) and WeChat (an instant messaging software service), increased their intake of instant noodles and fried pasta (Spearman’s rho = 0.468, 0.575, 0.465, and 0.323; p < 0.05). Children and adolescents who chatted online on weekends, including on QQ and WeChat, increased their intake of tofu skin (Spearman’s rho = 0.461; p < 0.05), and those who browsed online on weekdays increased their intake of whole-fat liquid milk (Spearman’s rho = 0.455; p < 0.05). Children and adolescents who browsed and chatted online on weekends, including on QQ and WeChat, and who played computer or smartphone games, increased their intake of fried potato chips (French fries or other fried snacks) (Spearman’s rho = 0.568, 0.270, and 0.412; p < 0.05). With respect to modes of transportation used to travel to and from school, children and adolescents who took buses and subways increased their intake of rice, instant noodles, sweet potatoes, soybean milk, tofu skin, processed meat products (sausage, ham sausage, or lunch meat), fish, shrimp, vegetables, nuts, and sweet cookies (buns, cakes, Dim sum, and moon cakes) (Spearman’s rho = 0.394, 0.536, 0.630, 0.408, 0.485, 0.441,0.410, 0.424, 0.444, 0.541, and 0.366; p < 0.05). Conclusions: Sedentary behavior affects the types of food consumed in children and adolescents’ daily diets. Children and adolescents who browsed online on weekdays increased their intake of whole-fat liquid milk, but also increased their intake of foods with high fat, high salt, and low nutrient density. Children and adolescents taking buses and subways increased their intake of low-nutrition quality products. Public awareness efforts should focus on reducing the consumption of low-nutrition quality products and nutritional education.
Consumption of Different Egg-Based Diets Alters Clinical Metabolic and Hematological Parameters in Young, Healthy Men and Women
Authors: Andersen Catherine J. , Huang Lindsey , Zhai Fangyi , Esposito Christa Palancia , Greco Julia M. , Zhang Ruijie , Woodruff Rachael , Sloan Allison , Van Dyke Aaron R.
Published: August 2023

Eggs—particularly egg yolks—are a rich source of bioactive nutrients and dietary compounds that influence metabolic health, lipid metabolism, immune function, and hematopoiesis. We investigated the effects of consuming an egg-free diet, three egg whites per day, and three whole eggs per day for 4 weeks on comprehensive clinical metabolic, immune, and hematologic profiles in young, healthy adults (18–35 y, BMI < 30 kg/m2 or <30% body fat for men and <40% body fat for women, n = 26) in a 16-week randomized, crossover intervention trial. We observed that average daily macro- and micronutrient intake significantly differed across egg diet periods, including greater intake of choline during the whole egg diet period, which corresponded to increased serum choline and betaine without altering trimethylamine N-oxide. Egg white and whole egg intake increased serum isoleucine while whole egg intake reduced serum glycine—markers of increased and decreased risk of insulin resistance, respectively—without altering other markers of glucose sensitivity or inflammation. Whole egg intake increased a subset of large HDL particles (H6P, 10.8 nm) and decreased the total cholesterol:HDL-cholesterol ratio and % monocytes in female participants using combined oral contraceptive (COC) medication (n = 11) as compared to female non-users (n = 10). Whole egg intake further increased blood hematocrit whereas egg white and whole egg intake reduced blood platelet counts. Changes in clinical immune cell counts between egg white and whole egg diet periods were negatively correlated with several HDL parameters yet positively correlated with measures of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and insulin sensitivity. Overall, the intake of whole eggs led to greater overall improvements in micronutrient diet quality, choline status, and HDL and hematologic profiles while minimally—yet potentially less adversely—affecting markers of insulin resistance as compared to egg whites.
The Effect of High-Intensity Interval Exercise on Short-Term Glycaemic Control, Serum Level of Key Mediator in Hypoxia and Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes—An Exploratory Case Study
Authors: Hall Barbara , Żebrowska Aleksandra , Sikora Marcin , Siatkowski Szymon , Robins Anna
Published: August 2023

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is associated with hyperglycaemia-induced hypoxia and inflammation. This study assessed the effects of a single bout of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) on glycaemia (BG) and serum level of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and an essential mediator of adaptive response to hypoxia in T1D patients. The macronutrient intake was also evaluated. Nine patients suffering from T1D for about 12 years and nine healthy individuals (CG) were enrolled and completed one session of HIIE at the intensity of 120% lactate threshold with a duration of 4 × 5 min intermittent with 5 min rests after each bout of exercise. Capillary and venous blood were withdrawn at rest, immediately after and at 24 h post-HIIE for analysis of BG, hypoxia-inducible factor alpha (HIF-1α), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and vascular-endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Pre-exercise BG was significantly higher in the T1D patients compared to the CG (p = 0.043). HIIE led to a significant decline in T1D patients’ BG (p = 0.027) and a tendency for a lower BG at 24 h post-HIIE vs. pre-HIIE. HIF-1α was significantly elevated in the T1D patients compared to CG and there was a trend for HIF-1α to decline, and for VEGF and TNF-α to increase in response to HIIE in the T1D group. Both groups consumed more and less than the recommended amounts of protein and fat, respectively. In the T1D group, a tendency for a higher digestible carbohydrate intake and more frequent hyperglycaemic episodes on the day after HIIE were observed. HIIE was effective in reducing T1D patients’ glycaemia and improving short-term glycaemic control. HIIE has the potential to improve adaptive response to hypoxia by elevating the serum level of VEGF. Patients’ diet and level of physical activity should be screened on a regular basis, and they should be educated on the glycaemic effects of digestible carbohydrates.
Overview on the Polyphenol Avenanthramide in Oats (Avena sativa Linn.) as Regulators of PI3K Signaling in the Management of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Wankhede Nitu L. , Kale Mayur B. , Bawankule Ashwini K. , Aglawe Manish M. , Taksande Brijesh G. , Trivedi Rashmi V. , Umekar Milind J. , Jamadagni Ankush , Walse Prathamesh , Koppula Sushruta , Kopalli Spandana Rajendra
Published: August 2023

Avenanthramides (Avns) and their derivatives, a group of polyphenolic compounds found abundantly in oats (Avena sativa Linn.), have emerged as promising candidates for neuroprotection due to their immense antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), characterized by the progressive degeneration of neurons, present a significant global health burden with limited therapeutic options. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in cell survival, growth, and metabolism, making it an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. The dysregulation of PI3K signaling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various NDDs including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Avns have been shown to modulate PI3K/AKT signaling, leading to increased neuronal survival, reduced oxidative stress, and improved cognitive function. This review explores the potential of Avn polyphenols as modulators of the PI3K signaling pathway, focusing on their beneficial effects against NDDs. Further, we outline the need for clinical exploration to elucidate the specific mechanisms of Avn action on the PI3K/AKT pathway and its potential interactions with other signaling cascades involved in neurodegeneration. Based on the available literature, using relevant keywords from Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science, our review emphasizes the potential of using Avns as a therapeutic strategy for NDDs and warrants further investigation and clinical exploration.
β-Alanine Supplementation in Combat Sports: Evaluation of Sports Performance, Perception, and Anthropometric Parameters and Biochemical Markers—A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials
Authors: Fernández-Lázaro Diego , Fiandor Emma Marianne , García Juan F. , Busto Natalia , Santamaría-Peláez Mirian , Gutiérrez-Abejón Eduardo , Roche Enrique , Mielgo-Ayuso Juan
Published: August 2023

β-alanine does not have an ergogenic effect by itself, but it does as a precursor for the synthesis of carnosine in human skeletal muscle. β-alanine and carnosine together help improve the muscles’ functionality, especially in high-intensity exercises such as combat sports. Therefore, β-alanine could be considered a nutritional ergogenic aid to improve sports performance in combat athletes. We aimed to critically review clinical trial evidence on the impact of β-alanine supplementation on sports performance, perception, and anthropometric parameters, as well as circulating biochemical markers in combat athletes. This systematic review was conducted following the specific methodological guidelines of the Preferred Report Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PRISMA), the PICOS question model, the Critical Review Form of McMaster, and the PEDro scale. Furthermore, the Cochrane risk-of-bias assessment tool was used. The search was carried out in the SCOPUS, Web of Science (WOS), and Medline (PubMed) databases for studies published from the beginning of the database until July 31, 2023. Of the 41 registers identified, only 7 met the established criteria and were included in this systematic review. Overall, performance parameters related to strength, power, total exercise work capacity, and combat-specific parameters were significantly improved (p < 0.05). Perception parameters increased non-significantly (p > 0.05). Regarding biochemical parameters, carnosine increased significantly (p < 0.05), pH decreased non-significantly (p > 0.05), and the results for blood bicarbonate and blood lactate were heterogeneous. Finally, there was a non-significant (p > 0.05) improvement in the anthropometric parameters of lean mass and fat mass. β-alanine supplementation appears to be safe and could be a suitable nutritional ergogenic aid for combat athletes.
CXCL8 Promotes Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition of Endothelial Cells and Protects Cells from Erastin-Induced Ferroptosis via CXCR2-Mediated Activation of the NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Ji Hai-zhou , Chen Li , Ren Mi , Li Sang , Liu Tong-yu , Chen Hong-ju , Yu Hui-hui , Sun Yang
Published: August 2023

CXCL8-CXCR1/CXCR2 signaling pathways might form complex crosstalk among different cell types within the ovarian tumor microenvironment, thereby modulating the behaviors of different cells. This study aimed to investigate the expression pattern of CXCL8 in the ovarian tumor microenvironment and its impact on both endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and ferroptosis of endothelial cells. The human monocytic cell line THP-1 and the human umbilical vein endothelial cell line PUMC-HUVEC-T1 were used to conduct in vitro studies. Erastin was used to induce ferroptosis. Results showed that tumor-associated macrophages are the major source of CXCL8 in the tumor microenvironment. CXCL8 treatment promoted the nucleus entrance of NF-κB p65 and p65 phosphorylation via CXCR2 in endothelial cells, suggesting activated NF-κB signaling. Via the NF-κB signaling pathway, CXCL8 enhanced TGF-β1-induced EndMT of PUMC-HUVEC-T1 cells and elevated their expression of SLC7A11 and GPX4. These trends were drastically weakened in groups with CXCR2 knockdown or SB225002 treatment. TPCA-1 reversed CXCL8-induced upregulation of SLC7A11 and GPX4. CXCL8 protected endothelial cells from erastin-induced ferroptosis. However, these protective effects were largely canceled when CXCR2 was knocked down. In summary, CXCL8 can activate the NF-κB signaling pathway in endothelial cells in a CXCR2-dependent manner. The CXCL8-CXCR2/NF-κB axis can enhance EndMT and activate SLC7A11 and GPX4 expression, protecting endothelial cells from ferroptosis.
Hyperhomocysteinaemia Promotes Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Mice
Authors: Fan Rui , Wang Yao , Zhang Jinjin , An Xiangbo , Liu Shuang , Bai Jie , Li Jiatian , Lin Qiuyue , Xie Yunpeng , Liao Jiawei , Xia Yunlong
Published: August 2023

Doxorubicin, a widely used chemotherapeutic drug in clinical oncology, causes a series of cardiac side effects referred to as doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Hyperhomocysteinaemia is an independent risk factor for multiple cardiovascular diseases. However, whether hyperhomocysteinaemia contributes to doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity is currently unknown. In this study, we explored the pathogenic effects of hyperhomocysteinaemia induced by dietary methionine supplementation (2% wt/wt in rodent chow) in a mouse model of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Our data showed that methionine supplementation doubled serum homocysteine levels, inducing mild hyperhomocysteinaemia. Doxorubicin at a cumulative dosage of 25 mg/kg body weight led to significant weight loss and severe cardiac dysfunction, which were further exacerbated by methionine-induced mild hyperhomocysteinaemia. Doxorubicin-induced cardiac atrophy, cytoplasmic vacuolisation, myofibrillar disarray and loss, as well as cardiac fibrosis, were also exacerbated by methionine-induced mild hyperhomocysteinaemia. Additional folic acid supplementation (0.006% wt/wt) prevented methionine-induced hyperhomocysteinaemia and inhibited hyperhomocysteinaemia-aggravated cardiac dysfunction and cardiomyopathy. In particular, hyperhomocysteinaemia increased both serum and cardiac oxidative stress, which could all be inhibited by folic acid supplementation. Therefore, we demonstrated for the first time that hyperhomocysteinaemia could exacerbate doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in mice, and the pathogenic effects of hyperhomocysteinaemia might at least partially correlate with increased oxidative stress and could be prevented by folic acid supplementation. Our study provides preliminary experimental evidence for the assessment of hyperhomocysteinaemia as a potential risk factor for chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity in cancer patients.
QS21-Initiated Fusion of Liposomal Small Unilamellar Vesicles to Form ALFQ Results in Concentration of Most of the Monophosphoryl Lipid A, QS21, and Cholesterol in Giant Unilamellar Vesicles
Authors: Abucayon Erwin G. , Rao Mangala , Matyas Gary R. , Alving Carl R.
Published: August 2023

Army Liposome Formulation with QS21 (ALFQ), a vaccine adjuvant preparation, comprises liposomes containing saturated phospholipids, with 55 mol% cholesterol relative to the phospholipids, and two adjuvants, monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) and QS21 saponin. A unique feature of ALFQ is the formation of giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) having diameters >1.0 µm, due to a remarkable fusion event initiated during the addition of QS21 to nanoliposomes containing MPLA and 55 mol% cholesterol relative to the total phospholipids. This results in a polydisperse size distribution of ALFQ particles, with diameters ranging from ~50 nm to ~30,000 nm. The purpose of this work was to gain insights into the unique fusion reaction of nanovesicles leading to GUVs induced by QS21. This fusion reaction was probed by comparing the lipid compositions and structures of vesicles purified from ALFQ, which were >1 µm (i.e., GUVs) and the smaller vesicles with diameter <1 µm. Here, we demonstrate that after differential centrifugation, cholesterol, MPLA, and QS21 in the liposomal phospholipid bilayers were present mainly in GUVs (in the pellet). Presumably, this occurred by rapid lateral diffusion during the transition from nanosize to microsize particles. While liposomal phospholipid recoveries by weight in the pellet and supernatant were 44% and 36%, respectively, higher percentages by weight of the cholesterol (~88%), MPLA (94%), and QS21 (96%) were recovered in the pellet containing GUVs, and ≤10% of these individual liposomal constituents were recovered in the supernatant. Despite the polydispersity of ALFQ, most of the cholesterol, and almost all of the adjuvant molecules, were present in the GUVs. We hypothesize that the binding of QS21 to cholesterol caused new structural nanodomains, and subsequent interleaflet coupling in the lipid bilayer might have initiated the fusion process, leading to creation of GUVs. However, the polar regions of MPLA and QS21 together have a “sugar lawn” of ten sugars, the hydrophilicity of which might have provided a driving force for rapid lateral diffusion and concentration of the MPLA and QS21 in the GUVs.
Development of a Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin-Based Liquid Formulation for the Oral Administration of Propranolol in Pediatric Therapy
Authors: Cirri Marzia , Mura Paola , Benedetti Simona , Buratti Susanna
Published: August 2023

Propranolol (PPN) is widely used in children to treat various cardiovascular diseases. The availability of a suitable PPN solution should avoid recourse to extemporaneous preparations of unknown/limited stability, as commonly made in hospital pharmacies. However, the development of pediatric PPN solutions is hindered by their instability to light and stability at pH ≈ 3, bitter taste, and the need to improve palatability and avoid co-solvents, flavoring agents, or preservatives that are potentially toxic. In this study, cyclodextrin (CD) complexation has been exploited to develop a safe, stable, and palatable oral pediatric solution of PPN. An initial screening among various CDs allowed us to select HPβCD for its good complexing ability and no toxicity. Drug-HPβCD physical mixtures or co-ground systems (1:1 or 1:2 mol:mol) were used to prepare 0.2% w/v drug solutions. Photo stability studies evidenced the protective effect of HPβCD, revealing a reduction of up to 75% in the drug degradation rate after 1 h of exposure to UV radiation. Storage stability studies showed unchanged physical–chemical properties and almost constant drug concentration after 6 months and under accelerated conditions (40 °C), despite the less aggressive pH (≈5.5) of the solution. The electronic tongue test proved that the HPβCD taste-masking properties improved the formulation palatability, with a 30% reduction in drug bitterness.
Multifunctional PDO Thread Coated with Mg(OH)2/ZnO Nanoparticles and Asiaticoside for Improved Facial Lifting
Authors: Kim Dong Min , Baek Seung-Woon , Park Jeong Min , Kim Da-Seul , Lee Semi , Lee Jun-Kyu , Park Chun Gwon , Han Dong Keun
Published: August 2023

As interest in skin aesthetics increases, treatments to suppress aging are increasing. Among them, a facelift is the most effective procedure for improving wrinkles. However, side effects including inflammatory reactions occur due to the limitations of the PDO thread itself used during the procedure. In this paper, to improve the function of PDO thread, inorganic particles such as magnesium hydroxide (MH) and zinc oxide (ZO) and a biologically active agent, asiaticoside, were coated on the surface of PDO thread using ultrasonic coating technology. The coated thread exhibited excellent biocompatibility, promoted collagen synthesis, reduced inflammation, and stimulated angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. The multifunctional PDO thread has shown promising potential for skin regeneration without inducing fibrosis. Such a practical coating system and the developed multifunctional PDO thread suggest new possibilities for developing safer and more effective materials in cosmetic and regenerative medicine to prevent aging and improve skin aesthetics.
Is It Virtuous to Love Truth and Hate Falsehood?
Authors: Coady David
Published: August 2023

There is a great deal of academic literature, much of it coming from the social sciences and from social epistemology, which presents itself as addressing a very general problem: the problem of excessive falsehood. Falsehood comes in two general forms: false statements and false beliefs. Of course, falsehood, in both these forms, has always been with us, but it is often supposed to be on the rise. I will argue that there is no new or growing problem of excessive falsehood (variously referred to as the problem of “misinformation” or “fake news”). Furthermore, we should reject the very idea that falsehood as such is a problem, and hence we should reject the idea of coming up with public policy responses to this so-called problem. I argue that the idea that falsehood is a problem is a natural consequence of the idea that it is virtuous to love truth and hate falsehood. I argue that, although there are several virtues related to truth (such as the intellectual virtue of curiosity and the moral virtue of honesty), a love of truth and hatred of falsehood are not themselves virtues.
Willingness to Contribute Time versus Willingness to Pay for the Management of Harmful Algal Blooms
Authors: Ofori Roland O.
Published: August 2023

The harmful impacts of the ongoing Sargassum invasions in the Atlantic Ocean include fish kills, skin and eye irritation, beach fouling, and declines in fisheries and tourism in West Africa and the Americas. This study was conducted to address important gaps in the non-market valuation literature and support the design of effective adaptation policies to reduce the harmful impacts of algal blooms. Contingent valuation survey data and linear mixed-effects regression models were utilized to estimate the drivers of willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to contribute time (WTCT) for the management of invasive Sargassum seaweeds in Ghana. The study revealed that income, education, family size, years of residence, sex, attitudes, and political affiliation are significant drivers of WTP, while distance to the beach, occupation, house ownership, attitudes, and political affiliation are also significant predictors of WTCT. Hence, only attitudes about invasive seaweeds and political affiliation influence both WTP and WTCT. The findings suggest that for developing countries to generate enough funding and adequate economic support for coastal resource conservation, they should design local resource protection programs that give residents the option to contribute both time and money.
Studies on Agrochemical Controlled Release Behavior of Copolymer Hydrogel with PVA Blends of Natural Polymers and Their Water-Retention Capabilities in Agricultural Soil
Authors: Jabrail Fawzi Habeeb , Mutlaq Maysam Salih , Al-Ojar Roua’a Kassim
Published: August 2023

Agricultural technical development relies exclusively on the effective delivery of agrochemicals and water to plants and on reducing the harmful effects of agrochemicals on useful organisms in the soil. In this study, super-absorbent hydrogels were prepared in the form of microspheres using gum Arabic (GA), which was copolymerized once with chitosan (CS) and once with poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA). To impart mechanical strength to the hydrogel microspheres, a covalent cross-linker (N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA)) was used for the PVA/GA hydrogel, and an ionic cross-linker (sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP)) was used for the CS/GA hydrogel. The prepared PVA/GA-CH and CS/GA-PH hydrogel microspheres showed different degrees of swelling (DSs) in the following solution media: deionized water (DW), river water (RW), and buffered solutions (pH 4; pH 9). The PVA/GA-CH hydrogel microspheres showed a maximum DS of 84 g/g in the RW, while the CS/GA-PH hydrogel microspheres showed a maximum DS of 63 g/g in the buffered solution at a pH 9. The water-retention capabilities of the hydrogels were studied using a mixture of 0.5% (w/w) hydrogel microspheres in agricultural soil; the composite showed an additional 20 days of water retention in comparison with a control sample consisting of soil alone. The hydrogels were loaded with urea, which is an important fertilizer in the field of agriculture. The PVA/GA-CH hydrogel microspheres showed a maximum loading percentage (Lmax%) of 89% (w/w), while the CS/GA-PH hydrogel microspheres showed an Lmax% = 79.75% (w/w) for urea. The urea-release behaviors of the hydrogel microspheres were studied under different release media and temperature conditions. In practice, the PVA/GA-CH hydrogel microspheres showed a better release profile in the RW at 10 °C, while the CS/GA-PH hydrogel microspheres showed a more controlled release in media at a pH 9 and at 30 °C. The urea-loaded microspheres, aside from those following the release, were characterized via FTIR and SEM. In contrast, virgin microspheres were characterized using XRD,1H NMR, (TGA and DSC), and the maximum degree of swelling, in addition to being subjected to SEM and FTIR analyses.
Design for 4D Printing of Biodegradable Shape Memory Polymers for Disposable UAV Systems
Authors: Ebeid Mary , James Sagil
Published: August 2023

The use of bio-based smart materials is vital for achieving the desired morphing characteristics while improving the efficiency of disposable Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) systems. Smart materials combine the structure and actuator into a single element without discrete moving parts, thereby minimizing the weight and mechanical complexity of the UAV system. Biodegradable smart materials facilitate the realization of smart actuation concepts that help in potentially improving system reliability and reducing the risk of potential component failure. However, the manufacturing of biodegradable smart materials is a huge challenge. Recent advances in 3D printing technologies have opened new possibilities for manufacturing biodegradable smart materials. The 3D printing technologies have been further extended to 4D printing, which essentially involves fabricating 3D smart structures. The goal of this research is to investigate the manufacturing challenges involved in the 4D printing of biodegradable smart polymer materials for disposable UAV systems. The manufacturing process consists of a combination of biodegradable smart polymer materials in conjunction with SLA-based 3D printing technology. The study will involve extensive theoretical investigations followed by experimental studies. The results of this study are expected to open up new possibilities for using biodegradable smart polymer materials at commercial scales.
Polypyrrole- and Polyaniline-Coated Cotton Fabrics as Efficient Adsorbents for the Pharmaceutical Water Contaminants Diclofenac and Salicylic Acid
Authors: Farghal Hebatullah H. , Tawakey Samar H. , Amer Wael A. , Ayad Mohamad M. , Madkour Tarek M. , El-Sayed Mayyada M. H.
Published: August 2023

The emerging pharmaceutical contaminants diclofenac (DCF) and salicylic acid (SA) pose potential hazards to humans and living organisms due to their persistence in water environments. In this work, the conductive polymers polypyrrole (PPY) and polyaniline (PANI) were successfully coated on cotton fabrics, as confirmed by FTIR and SEM measurements. The coated fabrics efficiently removed DCF at pH 5.3 and SA at pH 4, with removal efficiencies that exceeded 90% and 70%, respectively. Adsorption was rapid for most of the tested contaminant–fabric systems and reached equilibrium within 20–30 min. The best adsorption performance for both contaminants was shown on the PPY-coated fabrics, which yielded adsorption capacities of about 65 and 21 mg/g for DCF and SA, respectively. This could be explained by molecular modeling simulations, which mostly estimated higher total cohesive energy densities for adsorption on the PPY-coated fabrics than on the PANI-coated ones. The adsorption mechanism involved both coulombic electrostatic attractions and non-coulombic van der Waals and π-π stacking. The fabrics could be reused for three adsorption–desorption cycles. Immobilization of the conductive polymers on cotton fabrics provides a facile method for their handling and collection during adsorption and regeneration cycles while maintaining their multi-functionality in adsorbing different contaminants.
3D Porous VOx/N-Doped Carbon Nanosheet Hybrids Derived from Cross-Linked Dicyandiamide–Chitosan Hydrogels for Superior Supercapacitor Electrode Materials
Authors: Liu Jinghua , He Xiong , Cai Jiayang , Zhou Jie , Liu Baosheng , Zhang Shaohui , Sun Zijun , Su Pingping , Qu Dezhi , Li Yudong
Published: August 2023

Three-dimensional porous carbon materials with moderate heteroatom-doping have been extensively investigated as promising electrode materials for energy storage. In this study, we fabricated a 3D cross-linked chitosan-dicyandiamide-VOSO4 hydrogel using a polymerization process. After pyrolysis at high temperature, 3D porous VOx/N-doped carbon nanosheet hybrids (3D VNCN) were obtained. The unique 3D porous skeleton, abundant doping elements, and presence of VOx 3D VNCN pyrolyzed at 800 °C (3D VNCN-800) ensured excellent electrochemical performance. The 3D VNCN-800 electrode exhibits a maximum specific capacitance of 408.1 F·g−1 at 1 A·g−1 current density and an admirable cycling stability with 96.8% capacitance retention after 5000 cycles. Moreover, an assembled symmetrical supercapacitor based on the 3D VNCN-800 electrode delivers a maximum energy density of 15.6 Wh·Kg−1 at a power density of 600 W·Kg−1. Our study demonstrates a potential guideline for the fabrication of porous carbon materials with 3D structure and abundant heteroatom-doping.
Recent Strategies to Develop Conjugated Polymers for Detection and Therapeutics
Authors: Li Yutong , Qi Ruilian , Wang Xiaoyu , Yuan Huanxiang
Published: August 2023

The infectious diseases resulting from pathogenic microbes are highly contagious and the source of infection is difficult to control, which seriously endangers life and public health safety. Although the emergence of antibiotics has a good therapeutic effect in the early stage, the massive abuse of antibiotics has brought about the evolution of pathogens with drug resistance, which has gradually weakened the lethality and availability of antibiotics. Cancer is a more serious disease than pathogenic bacteria infection, which also threatens human life and health. Traditional treatment methods have limitations such as easy recurrence, poor prognosis, many side effects, and high toxicity. These two issues have led to the exploration and development of novel therapeutic agents (such as conjugated polymers) and therapeutic strategies (such as phototherapy) to avoid the increase of drug resistance and toxic side effects. As a class of organic polymer biological functional materials with excellent photoelectric properties, Conjugated polymers (CPs) have been extensively investigated in biomedical fields, such as the detection and treatment of pathogens and tumors due to their advantages of easy modification and functionalization, good biocompatibility and low cost. A rare comprehensive overview of CPs-based detection and treatment applications has been reported. This paper reviews the design strategies and research status of CPs used in biomedicine in recent years, introduces and discusses the latest progress of their application in the detection and treatment of pathogenic microorganisms and tumors according to different detection or treatment methods, as well as the limitations and potential challenges in prospective exploration.