bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Contribution of Timber Ring Beams in the Dynamic Response of Adobe Masonry Structures
Authors: Xekalakis Georgios , Christou Petros , Pitilakis Dimitris , Kyriakides Nicholas
Published: November 2023

Earthen structures made of adobe bricks are complex systems that making the identification of their behavior difficult, especially when they have to sustain lateral forces such as seismic forces. This paper presents a numerical investigation for the assessment of the structural response of unreinforced adobe masonry structures and how the installation of wooden ring beams contributes to their overall resistance. In the framework of the numerical investigation, finite element models were created to simulate the response of an adobe building with and without the presence of wooden ring beams. The test building is located in Cyprus, in the South Eastern Mediterranean region which is a seismic area. The material properties used in this study were found in the literature and were based on experimental data for local materials. The models were subjected to earthquake loads, performing time history analyses for the calculation of pertinent displacements and stresses. The findings indicate that integrating wooden ring beams reduces the fundamental period by 6% and modifies the building’s seismic behavior. This modification is evident not just in the magnitude of the stresses but also in their distribution, leading to a stratified stress profile. Peak stresses are primarily concentrated around the ring beams.
Eating Habits and Mental Health of College Students in Japan during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Imoto Tomoko , Hoshino Yuichiro , Sato Yoshiyuki , Ohsaki Yusuke , Shirakawa Hitoshi
Published: November 2023

While the relationship between eating habits and mental health has been widely studied, there is limited research focusing on college students during emergency situations such as pandemics. We conducted an online questionnaire survey to address this gap. Clustering analysis was applied to identify students’ eating habits, which are possibly more complex than traditional eating habits. Based on the identified eating habits, the students were separated into five groups. We evaluated the relationship between eating habits and mental health in these five groups using University Personality Inventory scores. Based on the results, the largest group—corresponding to slightly less than half of the participants—had the highest vegetable intake and mental health levels. This aligns with findings from numerous prior studies. However, our novel discovery was the presence of another group within those with higher vegetable intake, who had lower levels of mental health. Conversely, a group with lower vegetable intake had higher levels of mental health; remarkably, students in this group frequently consumed soft drinks, suggesting that, during the COVID-19 emergency, indulgent food and drinks may have played a role in enhancing mental health.
Exploring Men’s Experiences with Follow-Up Care following Primary Treatment for Prostate Cancer in Atlantic Canada: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Urquhart Robin , Scruton Sarah , Radford Samantha , Kendell Cynthia , Hirsch Elias
Published: November 2023

Prostate cancer is a common and life-altering condition among Canadian men, yet little is known about how follow-up care is provided to those who have completed treatment. Despite improving survival rates, survivors experience ongoing needs and are often not provided with support to manage them. This study sought to investigate the post-treatment experiences and needs of prostate cancer survivors and to determine if and how these needs are being met. Using a qualitative description design, prostate cancer survivors who had completed treatment took part in semi-structured interviews. The interviews were recorded and analyzed thematically. The participants experienced varying levels of satisfaction with their follow-up care. While primary care providers played significant roles, continuity of care and specialist involvement varied. Most participants felt unprepared to manage the long-term effects of their cancer due to a lack of information and resources from their healthcare providers. Instead, participants turned to their peers for support. Ongoing physical and psychosocial needs went unmet and had significant impacts on their daily lives. Participants felt that support for these issues should be automatically integrated into their follow-up care. In summary, this study revealed the importance of integrated, patient-centered follow-up care for prostate cancer in Atlantic Canada.
Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer and the Desire for Parenthood—A Legal View from a Swiss Perspective in Consideration of the Relevance of Cancer Support Organizations
Authors: Baur Isabel , Staudinger Sina , Aebi Ariana
Published: November 2023

This commentary focuses on the challenges and possibilities that adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYA) desiring parenthood face under Swiss law. The regulation of reproductive medicine procedures is stricter in Switzerland than in some other countries. Health insurance is compulsory, but the interventions that are covered are in constant flux. Recent changes pertain to the possibilities of future AYA parenthood and keeping up to date with practical and legal ramifications is taxing even for health professionals. AYA facing treatment decisions are uniquely vulnerable and dependent on comprehensive, clear, current, and country-specific information regarding risks and options pertaining to their fertility. This commentary provides a short overview of the Swiss legal framework related to reproductive medicine, highlighting its access restrictions and prohibitions, as well as recent changes. While the importance of patient, peer, caregiver, and interest groups supporting people affected by health conditions has long been recognized in many countries, an AYA organization was only recently established in Switzerland. Such organizations are vital for providing accurate, country-specific information and support, while individualized medical guidance, informed by the most current legal framework and its consequences, remains essential in addressing AYAs’ specific needs in connection with the desire to have children.
A New Transformation Technique for Reducing Information Entropy: A Case Study on Greyscale Raster Images
Authors: Žalik Borut , Strnad Damjan , Podgorelec David , Kolingerová Ivana , Lukač Luka , Lukač Niko , Kolmanič Simon , Žalik Krista , Kohek Štefan
Published: November 2023

This paper proposes a new string transformation technique called Move with Interleaving (MwI). Four possible ways of rearranging 2D raster images into 1D sequences of values are applied, including scan-line, left-right, strip-based, and Hilbert arrangements. Experiments on 32 benchmark greyscale raster images of various resolutions demonstrated that the proposed transformation reduces information entropy to a similar extent as the combination of the Burrows–Wheeler transform followed by the Move-To-Front or the Inversion Frequencies. The proposed transformation MwI yields the best result among all the considered transformations when the Hilbert arrangement is applied.
Valorisation of Cranberry Residues through Pyrolysis and Membrane Filtration for the Production of Value-Added Agricultural Products
Authors: Bennani Ghita , Ndao Adama , Konan Delon , Brassard Patrick , Le Roux Étienne , Godbout Stéphane , Adjallé Kokou
Published: November 2023

Pyrolysis is a thermochemical conversion process producing biochar, gas, and bio-oil at high temperatures in an oxygen-free environment. Specific pyrolysis conditions enable a significant production of the aqueous phase of bio-oil, commonly known as wood vinegar. Wood vinegar contains organic compounds such as acetic acid and phenols derived from bio-oil. These compounds have herbicidal properties against weeds and biostimulant properties for plant growth. This study reveals the potential for efficient management of cranberry residues consisting of stems and leaves by producing wood vinegar through pyrolysis at 475 °C with a humidity level of 20%. Membrane separation of wood vinegar, using nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes, yielded phenols in the retentate and acetic acid in the permeate with respective yields of 44.7% with NF membrane and 45% with RO membrane. Biostimulation tests using 2% of the retentate showed significant germination rates for basil, sage, and parsley plants. Additionally, using 40 mL of the wood vinegar permeate (30 mL injected at the base and 10 mL sprayed on the leaves) resulted in leaf damage, measured by conductivity (leakage of electrolytes released by the leaves), of 62.3% and 20.5% respectively for quack grass and white clover, two weeds found in cranberry production.
Food Security and Biofuels in Latin America and the Caribbean Region: A Data Panel Analysis on Eight Countries
Authors: Ordoñez Olivo Maria Lourdes , Lakner Zoltán
Published: November 2023

In the short, medium, and long term, a sustainable bioeconomy can help address one of the main concerns of most countries concerning the food crisis, particularly in the Latin American and Caribbean contexts, where food security and the bioeconomy are crucial for the region’s development and sustainability. However, to avoid negative impacts on the environment and food production, all sectors of the bioeconomy, especially those related to biofuel production, must be sustainable and environmentally conscious. This study analyses historical correlations between three dependent variables related to basic concepts of food security and independent variables framed by biofuel production through a panel data study in eight Latin American and Caribbean countries between 2007 and 2021. Of the three econometric models analyzed, two are statistically significant. The first shows a positive correlation between biofuel production and the food production index. The third shows a negative correlation between the percentage of undernourished people and biofuel production. In conclusion, according to the historical data evaluated in the countries studied, the impact of biofuel production on the food security variables analyzed is positive. This positive relationship can be interpreted as an opportunity for the region’s countries to generate additional bio-economic income, taking advantage of the region’s potential and providing new opportunities for producers, especially in rural areas.
Performance of Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 Catalysts Prepared by Sol–Gel Methods on Methanol Steam Reforming
Authors: Li Yongsheng , Luo Chunhuan , Su Qingquan
Published: November 2023

Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 catalysts were prepared for online methanol steam reforming (MSR) using a conventional sol–gel method in this study. The optimal preparation conditions, including the calcination temperature, Cu loading, molar ratio of citric acid to metal ions (CA/M), and pH, were investigated. CZA50 exhibited the highest MSR activity among all catalysts. It was prepared at a calcination temperature of 350 °C; Cu, Zn, and Al molar fractions of 50%, 30%, and 20%; CA/M of 1.5; and without adjusting pH. Furthermore, a modified sol–gel method was proposed to enhance the mechanical strength of Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 catalysts by using γ-Al2O3 powders as catalyst precursors instead of aluminum nitrates. In this modified method, part of Cu2+ and Zn2+ ions were impregnated firstly on γ-Al2O3 powders, and then the remaining metal ions formed sol–gel with citric acid. MCZA-0.25 catalysts prepared by this modified method showed superior catalytic activity at an Al/(Cu+Zn) ratio of 0.25. The methanol conversion rates of CZA50, MCZA-025, and CZA-Commercial were 82.9%, 79.4%, and 74.7% at the temperature of 200 °C and methanol liquid phase space velocity (LHSV) of 1.0/h, respectively. The average crushing strength of CZA50, MCZA-0.25, and CZA-Commercial were measured as 28 N/cm, 37 N/cm, and 32 N/cm, respectively.
Joint Multi-Objective Allocation of Parking Lots and DERs in Active Distribution Network Considering Demand Response Programs
Authors: Bagherzadeh Leila , Kamwa Innocent
Published: November 2023

Renewable energy sources (RESs) and electric vehicles (EVs) have been introduced as efficient technologies to address environmentally friendly and sustainable energy sources. However, the widespread integration of distributed renewable sources into the power grid and the growing adoption of EVs pose new challenges for distribution network operators. These challenges necessitate careful management to mitigate their impacts, particularly in meeting the additional demand arising from EV charging. To achieve these targets, it is necessary to strategically integrate RESs and EVs. This study focuses on the optimal allocation and energy management of distributed energy resources (DERs) and electric vehicle parking lots (EVPLs), taking into account the inherent uncertainty in the output power of these resources. Notably, parking lots (PLs) utilize vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology of EVs and aggregate and inject their power into the distribution system. Therefore, EVs as a motion type of energy storage system play a significant role, especially in the on-peak hours. The optimization problem is addressed using the salp swarm algorithm (SSA) while adhering to operational constraints related to the power system, as well as both DERs and EVPLs. The main goal is to simultaneously enhance the technical, economic, and environmental performance of the system, by solving a multi-objective optimization problem. The effectiveness of this approach is evaluated using the IEEE 33-bus distribution system, with the study considering five different scenarios. The simulation results reveal that the planned deployment of DERs, given their proximity to the load centers, has effectively mitigated the overload impacts resulting from EVs’ charging. Furthermore, the implementation of a demand response program (DRP), cooperatively with the aforementioned resources, has significantly improved all key operating indicators of the system.
Manifold Learning in Electric Power System Transient Stability Analysis
Authors: Sarajcev Petar , Lovric Dino
Published: November 2023

This paper examines the use of manifold learning in the context of electric power system transient stability analysis. Since wide-area monitoring systems (WAMSs) introduced a big data paradigm into the power system operation, manifold learning can be seen as a means of condensing these high-dimensional data into an appropriate low-dimensional representation (i.e., embedding) which preserves as much information as possible. In this paper, we consider several embedding methods (principal component analysis (PCA) and its variants, singular value decomposition, isomap and spectral embedding, locally linear embedding (LLE) and its variants, multidimensional scaling (MDS), and others) and apply them to the dataset derived from the IEEE New England 39-bus power system transient simulations. We found that PCA with a radial basis function kernel is well suited to this type of power system data (where features are instances of three-phase phasor values). We also found that the LLE (including its variants) did not produce a good embedding with this particular kind of data. Furthermore, we found that a support vector machine, trained on top of the embedding produced by several different methods was able to detect power system disturbances from WAMS data.
STEAM Experimental Facility: A Step Forward for the Development of the EU DEMO BoP Water Coolant Technology
Authors: Vannoni Alessandra , Lorusso Pierdomenico , Arena Pietro , Eboli Marica , Marinari Ranieri , Tincani Amelia , Ciurluini Cristiano , Giannetti Fabio , Badodi Nicolò , Tripodo Claudio , Cammi Antonio , Barucca Luciana , Tarallo Andrea , Agostini Pietro , Del Nevo Alessandro
Published: November 2023

Within the EUROfusion roadmap for the technological development of the European-DEMOnstration (EU-DEMO) reactor, a key point has been identified in the discontinuous operation (pulse-dwell-pulse) of the machine. Water Cooled Lithium Lead (WCLL) Breeding Blanket (BB) Primary Heat Transfer Systems (PHTSs) adopt technology and components commonly used in nuclear fission power plants, whose performances could be negatively affected by the above mentioned pulsation, as well as by low-load operation in the dwell phase. This makes mandatory a full assessment of the functional feasibility of such components through accurate design and validation. For this purpose, ENEA Experimental Engineering Division at Brasimone R.C. aims at realizing STEAM, a water operated facility forming part of the multipurpose experimental infrastructure Water cooled lithium lead -thermal-HYDRAulic (W-HYDRA), conceived to investigate the water technologies applied to the DEMO BB and Balance of Plant systems and components. The experimental validation has the two main objectives of reproducing the DEMO operational phases by means of steady-state and transient tests, as well as performing dedicated tests on the steam generator aiming at demonstrating its ability to perform as intended during the power phases of the machine. STEAM is mainly composed of primary and secondary water systems reproducing the thermodynamic conditions of the DEMO WCLL BB PHTS and power conversion system, respectively. The significance of the STEAM facility resides in its capacity to amass experimental data relevant for the advancement of fusion-related technologies. This capability is attributable to the comprehensive array of instruments with which the facility will be equipped and whose strategic location is described in this work. The operational phases of the STEAM facility at different power levels are presented, according to the requirements of the experiments. Furthermore, a preliminary analysis for the definition of the control strategy for the OTSG mock-up was performed. In particular, two different control strategies were identified and tested, both keeping the primary mass flow constant and regulating the feedwater mass flow to follow a temperature set-point in the primary loop. The obtained numerical results yielded preliminary feedback on the regulation capability of the DEMO steam generator mock-up during pulsed operation, showing that no relevant overtemperature jeopardized the facility integrity, thanks to the high system responsivity to rapid load variations.
Optimization of a Bacterial Cultivation Medium via a Design-of-Experiment Approach in a Sartorius Ambr® 15 Fermentation Microbioreactor System
Authors: Baccante Antonio , Petruccelli Pasquale , Saudino Giovanni , Ragnoni Elena , Johansson Erik , Di Cioccio Vito , Mazarakis Kleanthis
Published: November 2023

In the evolving landscape of sustainable biopharmaceutical process development, the utilization of bacteria in the production of various compounds via fermentation has attracted extensive attention from scientists. A successful fermentation process and the release of its associated products hinge on the synergy between an efficient bacterial strain and the formulation of a suitable growth medium. Balancing all nutrient levels of a growth medium to maximize microbial growth and the product quality is quite an intricate task. In this context, significant advancements have been achieved via the strategic implementation of design-of-experiment (DOE) methodologies and the utilization of parallel microbioreactor systems. This work presents a case study of the fermentation growth medium optimization of a Gram-negative bacterium of the Neisseriaceae family that releases outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), which represent a potential vaccine platform. To achieve this, the ability of Sartorius MODDE®13 DOE software to explore multiple variables and their interactions was combined with the functionality of a Sartorius Ambr® 15F parallel microbioreactor system. The findings reported in this study have led to the design of a well-suited fermentation medium for a Gram-negative bacterium and an improvement in the quality of the OMVs produced from it.
Experimental Study on the Microstructural Characterization of Retardation Capacity of Microbial Inhibitors to Spontaneous Lignite Combustion
Authors: Wang Yanming , Liu Ruijie , Chen Xiaoyu , Zou Xiangyu , Li Dingrui , Wang Shasha
Published: November 2023

Mine fires are one of the common major disasters in underground mining. In addition to the external fire sources generated by mining equipment and mechanical and electrical equipment during operations, coal is exposed to air during mining, and spontaneous combustion is also the main cause of mine fires. In order to reduce the hidden danger of coal mines caused by spontaneous coal combustion during lignite mining, the microbial inhibition of coal spontaneous combustion is proposed in this paper. Via SEM, pore size analysis, and NMR and FT-IR experiments, the mechanism of coal spontaneous combustion is discussed and revealed. The modification of lignite before and after the addition of retardants is analyzed from the perspective of microstructure, and the change in flame retardancy of the lignite treated with two retardants compared with raw coal is explored. The results show that, compared with raw coal, a large number of calcium carbonate particles are attached to the surface of the coal sample after bioinhibition treatment, and the total pore volume and specific surface area of the coal sample after bioinhibition treatment are decreased by 68.49% and 74.01%, respectively, indicating that bioinhibition can effectively plug the primary pores. The results of NMR and Fourier infrared spectroscopy show that the chemical structure of the coal sample is mainly composed of aromatic carbon, followed by fatty carbon and carbonyl carbon. In addition, the contents of active groups (hydroxyl, carboxyl, and methyl/methylene) in lignite after bioretardation are lower than those in raw coal, and methyl/methylene content is decreased by 96.5%. The comparison shows that the flame-retardant performance of biological retardants is better than that of chemical retardants, which provides an effective solution for the efficient prevention and control of spontaneous combustion disasters in coal mines.
The Generalized Discrete Proportional Derivative and Its Applications
Authors: Pandurangan Rajiniganth , Shanmugam Saravanan , Rhaima Mohamed , Ghoudi Hamza
Published: November 2023

The aim of this paper is to define the generalized discrete proportional derivative (GDPD) and illustrate the application of the Leibniz theorem, the binomial expansion, and Montmort’s formulas in the context of the generalized discrete proportional case. Furthermore, we introduce the generalized discrete proportional Laplace transform and determine the GDPLT of various functions using the inverse operator. The results obtained are showcased through relevant examples and validated using MATLAB.
Preparation of Citral Oleogel and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Li Shangjian , Chen Jiajia , Liu Yuntong , Qiu Honghao , Gao Wei , Che Kundian , Zhou Baogang , Liu Ran , Hu Wenzhong
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to analyze a natural and safe oleogel with antimicrobial properties that can replace animal fats while lengthening the product’s shelf life. The oleogel was created using direct dispersion (MG-SO), and its material characterization exhibited the exceptional performance of the hybrid gelant. Additionally, citral was integrated into the oil gel to prepare the citral oleogel (MG-SO). The antimicrobial nature of the material was examined and the findings revealed that it inhibited the growth of various experimental model bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus niger, Botrytis cinerea, and Rhizopus stolonifer. In addition, the material had a comparable inhibitory impact on airborne microorganisms. Lastly, MG-SON was utilized in plant-based meat patties and demonstrated an ability to significantly reduce the growth rate of microorganisms.
An Update on the Interdisciplinary Dental Care Approach for Geriatric Diabetic Patients
Authors: Surlari Zenovia , Ciurcanu Oana Elena , Budala Dana Gabriela , Butnaru Oana , Luchian Ionut
Published: November 2023

Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent health issue escalating worldwide that gives rise to numerous problems. Periodontal disorders are recognized as the sixth consequence associated with diabetes mellitus. Research shows that dental health affects overall health, and this knowledge is changing the dental field. The correct choice of glucose goal levels and the optimal selection of glucose-lowering medications are determined by a comprehensive geriatric assessment, an estimate of life expectancy, and a rationale for therapy at regular intervals in elderly diabetics. This article provides an overview of the correlation between diabetes and oral health, with a specific emphasis on xerostomia, periodontal disease, and dental caries. Thus, dentists play a significant role within the allied health profession by contributing to the provision of oral care for those diagnosed with diabetes, with a special focus on geriatric patients.
Effect of Genotype-by-Environment Interaction on Oil and Oleic Fatty Acid Contents of Cultivated Peanuts
Authors: Zhang Hui , Yu Yan , Wang Mingli , Dang Phat , Chen Charles
Published: November 2023

Twenty-seven genotypes of varieties and advanced breeding lines were grown in two locations in three years with three replications to estimate the effects of the genotype-by-environment interaction (G × E) on the oil and oleic fatty acid contents of cultivated peanuts. Oil and oleic fatty acid contents were quantified using NMR and GC, respectively. The tested lines were genotyped with functional SNP markers from the FAD2A and FAD2B genes using real-time PCR and classified into four genotypes. The results indicated that Alabama was the environment that better discriminated the test genotypes during the year 2012. Eight promising selected genotypes #12, #15, ARSOKR, Brantley, GaHO, M04-149, M04-48, and SunO97R showed wide adaptation and high-oleic acids of 83.02%, 81.32%, 82.03%, 81.15%, 79.21%, 80.94%, 82.46%, and 82.18%, respectively. The Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) model that combines the conventional analyses of variance for additive main effects with the principal component analysis (PCA) for the non-additive residuals was applied to estimate the additive effects from FAD2A and FAD2B genes and the G × E interaction. The results indicated significant G × E interactions for oleic fatty acid contents. No correlation between oil content and FAD2A and FAD2B genes was found. The FAD2B gene had a larger additive effect than the FAD2A gene. The results from this study may be useful not only for peanut breeders, but also for food processors and product consumers to select suitable cultivars.
Biomimetic Apatite/Natural Polymer Composite Granules as Multifunctional Dental Tissue Regenerative Material
Authors: Kołodziejska Barbara , Figat Ramona , Kolmas Joanna
Published: November 2023

This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of novel composite biomaterials designed for dental applications, aiming to potentially address the prevalent challenge of dental and periodontal tissue loss. The composites consisted of biomimetic hydroxyapatite (mHA) enriched with Mg2+, CO32−, and Zn2+ ions, type I collagen, alginate, and, additionally, chitosan and sericin. The granules were loaded with ibuprofen sodium salt. The investigation encompassed a morphology characterization, a porosity analysis, a chemical structure assessment, and an examination of the swelling behavior, drug release kinetics (ibuprofen), and release profiles of zinc and magnesium ions. The granules exhibited irregular surfaces with an enhanced homogeneity in the chitosan-coated granules and well-developed mesoporous structures. The FT-IR spectra confirmed the presence of ibuprofen sodium, despite overlapping bands for the polymers. The granules demonstrated a high water-absorption capacity, with delayed swelling observed in the chitosan-coated granules. Ibuprofen displayed burst-release profiles, especially in the G1 and G3 samples. In the case of the chitosan-coated granules (G2 and G4), lower amounts of ibuprofen were released. In turn, there was a significant difference in the released amount of magnesium and zinc ions from the granules, which was most likely caused by their different location in the hydroxyapatite crystals. The cytotoxicity assays confirmed the non-cytotoxic behavior of the biomaterial. These findings suggest the potential applicability of these biomaterials in dental scenarios, emphasizing their multifunctional and biocompatible nature.
3D-Printed Antibacterial Scaffolds for the Regeneration of Alveolar Bone in Severe Periodontitis
Authors: Theodoridis Konstantinos , Arampatzis Athanasios S. , Liasi Georgia , Tsalikis Lazaros , Barmpalexis Panagiotis , Christofilos Dimitrios , Assimopoulou Andreana N.
Published: November 2023

Current clinical treatment of periodontitis alleviates periodontal symptoms and helps to keep the disease under control for extended periods. Despite this, a significant destruction of the tooth’s underlying bone tissue often takes place progressively. Herein, we present a two-way therapeutic approach for local delivery of antibacterial agents and bone tissue regeneration, incorporating ~1% w/w tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) into a 3D-printed scaffold composed of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL). Samples were assessed for their morphological, physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, and antibacterial properties. Furthermore, osteoprecursor cells (MC3T3-E1) were employed to evaluate the osteoinductive potential of the drug-loaded scaffolds. Cell proliferation, viability, and differentiation were determined on all cell-seeded scaffolds. At the end of the culture, PCL-TCH scaffolds promoted abundant collagen organic matrix, demonstrating augmented alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and areas of accumulated mineralised bone tissue, despite their belayed cell proliferation. Based on the observed effectiveness of the PCL-TCH scaffolds to inhibit Staphylococcus aureus, these constructs could serve as an alternative bioactive implant that supports bacterial inhibition and favours a 3D microenvironment for bone tissue regeneration in severe periodontitis.
Thermodynamic Characterization of the Interaction of Biofunctionalized Gold Nanoclusters with Serum Albumin Using Two- and Three-Dimensional Methods
Authors: Juhász Ádám , Gombár Gyöngyi , Várkonyi Egon F. , Wojnicki Marek , Ungor Ditta , Csapó Edit
Published: November 2023

Fluorescent gold nanoclusters have been successfully used as fluorescent markers for imaging of cells and tissues, and their potential role in drug delivery monitoring is coming to the fore. In addition, the development of biosensors using structure-tunable fluorescent nanoclusters is also a prominent research field. In the case of these sensor applications, the typical goal is the selective identification of, e.g., metal ions, small molecules having neuroactive or antioxidant effects, or proteins. During these application-oriented developments, in general, there is not enough time to systematically examine the interaction between nanoclusters and relevant biomolecules/proteins from a thermodynamic viewpoint. In this way, the primary motivation of this article is to carry out a series of tests to partially fill this scientific gap. Besides the well-known fluorescent probes, the mentioned interactions were investigated using such unique measurement methods as surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). These two-dimensional (at the solid/liquid interface) and three-dimensional (in the bulk phase) measuring techniques provide a unique opportunity for the thermodynamic characterization of the interaction between different gold nanoclusters containing various surface functionalizing ligands and bovine serum albumin (BSA).
Unveiling the Potent Fibrino(geno)lytic, Anticoagulant, and Antithrombotic Effects of Papain, a Cysteine Protease from Carica papaya Latex Using κ-Carrageenan Rat Tail Thrombosis Model
Authors: Yang Hye Ryeon , Zahan Most Nusrat , Yoon Yewon , Kim Kyuri , Hwang Du Hyeon , Kim Woo Hyun , Rho Il Rae , Kim Euikyung , Kang Changkeun
Published: November 2023

While fibrinolytic enzymes and thrombolytic agents offer assistance in treating cardiovascular diseases, the existing options are associated with a range of adverse effects. In our previous research, we successfully identified ficin, a naturally occurring cysteine protease that possesses unique fibrin and fibrinogenolytic enzymes, making it suitable for both preventing and treating cardiovascular disorders linked to thrombosis. Papain is a prominent cysteine protease derived from the latex of Carica papaya. The potential role of papain in preventing fibrino(geno)lytic, anticoagulant, and antithrombotic activities has not yet been investigated. Therefore, we examined how papain influences fibrinogen and the process of blood coagulation. Papain is highly stable at pH 4–11 and 37–60 °C via azocasein assay. In addition, SDS gel separation electrophoresis, zymography, and fibrin plate assays were used to determine fibrinogen and fibrinolysis activity. Papain has a molecular weight of around 37 kDa, and is highly effective in degrading fibrin, with a molecular weight of over 75 kDa. Furthermore, papain-based hemostatic performance was confirmed in blood coagulation tests, a blood clot lysis assay, and a κ-carrageenan rat tail thrombosis model, highlighting its strong efficacy in blood coagulation. Papain shows dose-dependent blood clot lysis activity, cleaves fibrinogen chains of Aα, Bβ, and γ-bands, and significantly extends prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Moreover, the mean length of the infarcted regions in the tails of Sprague–Dawley rats with κ-carrageenan was shorter in rats administered 10 U/kg of papain than in streptokinase-treated rats. Thus, papain, a cysteine protease, has distinct fibrin and fibrinogenolytic properties, suggesting its potential for preventing or treating cardiovascular issues and thrombosis-related diseases.
Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment in Breast Cancer: Prognostic and Predictive Significance and Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Domínguez-Cejudo María A. , Gil-Torralvo Ana , Cejuela Mónica , Molina-Pinelo Sonia , Salvador Bofill Javier
Published: November 2023

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent tumors among women. Its prognosis and treatment outcomes depend on factors related to tumor cell biology. However, recent studies have revealed the critical role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the development, progression, and treatment response of breast cancer. In this review, we explore the different components of the TME and their relevance as prognostic and predictive biomarkers in breast cancer. In addition, techniques for assessing the tumor microenvironment, such as immunohistochemistry or gene expression profiling, and their clinical utility in therapeutic decision-making are examined. Finally, therapeutic strategies targeting the TME are reviewed, highlighting their potential clinical benefits. Overall, this review emphasizes the importance of the TME in breast cancer and its potential as a clinical tool for better patient stratification and the design of personalized therapies.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Skeletal Muscle of Rotenone-Induced Rat Model of Parkinson’s Disease: SC-Nanophytosomes as Therapeutic Approach
Authors: Mendes Daniela , Peixoto Francisco , Oliveira Maria Manuel , Andrade Paula Branquinho , Videira Romeu António
Published: November 2023

The development of new therapeutic options for Parkinson’s disease (PD) requires formulations able to mitigate both brain degeneration and motor dysfunctions. SC-Nanophytosomes, an oral mitochondria-targeted formulation developed with Codium tomentosum membrane polar lipids and elderberry anthocyanin-enriched extract, promote significant brain benefits on a rotenone-induced rat model of PD. In the present work, the effects of SC-Nanophytosome treatment on the skeletal muscle tissues are disclosed. It is unveiled that the rotenone-induced PD rat model exhibits motor disabilities and skeletal muscle tissues with deficient activity of mitochondrial complexes I and II along with small changes in antioxidant enzyme activity and skeletal muscle lipidome. SC-Nanophytosome treatment mitigates the impairment of complexes I and II activity, improving the mitochondrial respiratory chain performance at levels that surpass the control. Therefore, SC-Nanophytosome competence to overcome the PD-related motor disabilities should be also associated with its positive outcomes on skeletal muscle mitochondria. Providing a cellular environment with more reduced redox potential, SC-Nanophytosome treatment improves the skeletal muscle tissue’s ability to deal with oxidative stress stimuli. The PD-related small changes on skeletal muscle lipidome were also counteracted by SC-Nanophytosome treatment. Thus, the present results reinforces the concept of SC-Nanophytosomes as a mitochondria-targeted therapy to address the neurodegeneration challenge.
Bisphenol A Effects on Neurons’ Neurochemical Character in the Urinary Bladder Intramural Ganglia of Domestic Pigs
Authors: Makowska Krystyna , Lech Piotr , Gonkowski Sławomir
Published: November 2023

Bisphenol A (BPA), a substance globally used to produce plastics, is part of many everyday items, including bottles, food containers, electronic elements, and others. It may penetrate the environment and living organisms, negatively affecting, among others, the nervous, immune, endocrine, and cardiovascular systems. Knowledge of the impact of BPA on the urinary bladder is extremely scarce. This study investigated the influence of two doses of BPA (0.05 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)/day and 0.5 mg/kg b.w./day) given orally for 28 days on the neurons situated in the ganglia located in the urinary bladder trigone using the typical double immunofluorescence method. In the study, an increase in the percentage of neurons containing substance P (SP), galanin (GAL), a neuronal isoform of nitric oxide synthase (nNOS—used as the marker of nitrergic neurons), and/or cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptide was noted after BPA administration. The severity of these changes depended on the dose of BPA and the type of neuronal factors studied. The most visible changes were noted in the cases of SP- and/or GAL-positive neurons after administering a higher dose of BPA. The results have shown that oral exposure to BPA, lasting even for a short time, affects the intramural neurons in the urinary bladder wall, and changes in the neurochemical characterisation of these neurons may be the first signs of BPA-induced pathological processes in this organ.
Synthesis and In Vitro Evaluation as Potential Anticancer and Antioxidant Agents of Diphenylamine-Pyrrolidin-2-one-Hydrazone Derivatives
Authors: Zubrickė Irma , Jonuškienė Ilona , Kantminienė Kristina , Tumosienė Ingrida , Petrikaitė Vilma
Published: November 2023

The title compounds were synthesized by the reaction of 5-oxo-1-(4-(phenylamino)phenyl)pyrrolidine-3-carbohydrazide with various aldehydes bearing aromatic and heterocyclic moieties and acetophenones, and their cytotoxicity was tested via MTT assay against human triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231, human melanoma IGR39, human pancreatic carcinoma Panc-1, and prostate cancer cell line PPC-1. Furthermore, the selectivity of compounds towards cancer cells compared to fibroblasts was also investigated. Four compounds were identified as the most promising anticancer agents out of a series of pyrrolidinone-hydrazone derivatives bearing a diphenylamine moiety. These compounds were most selective against the prostate cancer cell line PPC-1 and the melanoma cell lines IGR39, with EC50 values in the range of 2.5–20.2 µM against these cell lines. In general, the compounds were less active against triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cell line, and none of them showed an inhibitory effect on the migration of these cells. In the ‘wound healing’ assay, N′-((5-nitrothiophen-2-yl)methylene)-5-oxo-1-(4-(phenylamino)phenyl)pyrrolidine-3-carbohydrazide was identified as the most promising derivative that could be further developed as an antimetastatic agent. N′-(5-chloro- and N′-(3,4-dichlorobenzylidene)-5-oxo-1-(4-(phenylamino)phenyl)pyrrolidine-3-carbohydrazides most efficiently reduced the cell viability in IGR39 cell spheroids, while there was no effect of the investigated pyrrolidinone-hydrazone derivatives on PPC-1 3D cell cultures. Antioxidant activity determined via FRAP assay of N′-(1-(4-aminophenyl)ethylidene)-5-oxo-1-(4-(phenylamino)phenyl)pyrrolidine-3-carbohydrazide was 1.2 times higher than that of protocatechuic acid.
Effect of Natural Variation and Rootstock on Fruit Quality and Volatile Organic Compounds of ‘Kiyomi tangor’ (Citrus reticulata Blanco) Citrus
Authors: Wang Tie , Zheng Zhendong , Deng Lijun , Li Weijia , Yuan Ya , Zhang Mingfei , Sun Guochao , He Siya , Wang Jun , Wang Zhihui , Xiong Bo
Published: November 2023

In this study, we compared the fruit quality and color of ‘Kiyomi’ (WT) and its mutant (MT) grafted on Ziyang xiangcheng (Cj) (WT/Cj, MT/Cj), and the MT grafted on Trifoliate orange (Pt) (MT/Pt). The differences in sugar, organic acid, flavonoids, phenols, and volatile substances of the three materials were also analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC–MS). The results showed significant differences in the appearance of WT/Cj, MT/Cj, and MT/Pt. MT/Pt, compared to WT/Cj, MT/Cj, had lower sugar, acid, phenol and flavonoid contents in the pulp. However, MT/Pt pulp was higher in vitamin C (VC), and the peel had significantly higher total phenol and flavonoid contents. In terms of pulp, WT/Cj had the greatest diversity of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). 4-methyl-1-pentanol was significantly higher in MT/Cj pulp, while MT/Pt pulp had a unique octanoic acid, methyl ester. VOCs were more diverse in the peels of the three materials. β-Myrcene and valencen were significantly higher in MT/Cj peels. In contrast, 16 unique VOCs were detected in MT/Pt, and D-limonene content was significantly higher than in WT/Cj and MT/Cj. The results suggest Trifoliate orange is a suitable rootstock for MT.
Solid Solutions LnxU1−xC2 with Ln = Tb, Dy, Ho, Tm, and Lu Showing Ideal Vegard Behavior
Authors: Tobeck Christian , Wende Heiko , Ruschewitz Uwe
Published: November 2023

The reaction of UO2 with the respective lanthanide metal and purified graphite in an arc-melting furnace led to the formation of solid solutions of the composition LnxU1−xC2, with Ln = Tb, Dy, Ho, Tm, and Lu. They all crystallize in the tetragonal CaC2 type structure (I4/mmm, Z = 2). Elemental analyses of selected samples (EDX) confirm that the composition of the resulting solid solution is in reasonable agreement with the nominal (weighed-in) composition of the starting materials, i.e., a significant evaporation of the lanthanide metals during the arc-melting synthesis does not occur. The lattice parameters of the solid solutions were extracted using Le Bail fits of high-resolution synchrotron powder diffraction data (beamline P02.1, DESY, Hamburg, Germany; beamline BL 09, DELTA, Dortmund, Germany), revealing ideal Vegard behavior for all five solid solutions. XANES investigations on all compounds at the Ln-LIII and U-LIII edges reveal that the occupancies of the U-6d orbitals decrease with increasing x, whereas the occupancies of the Ln-5d orbitals increase, pointing to an electron transfer from the uranium to the lanthanide cations. Examination of the shifts of the absorption edge (E0) leads to the same finding.
Efficacy and Safety of Isoprenaline during Unstable Third-Degree Atrioventricular Block
Authors: De Lazzari Manuel , Martini Nicolò , Migliore Federico , Donato Filippo , Babuin Luciano , Tarantini Giuseppe , Perazzolo Marra Martina , Cacciavillani Luisa , Bertaglia Emanuele , Bortoluzzi Andrea , Cianci Vito , Corrado Domenico , Iliceto Sabino , Zorzi Alessandro
Published: November 2023

Unstable and symptomatic complete atrioventricular block represents a potentially fatal condition that requires prompt therapy while waiting for definitive pacemaker implantation. Although transcutaneous pacing is included in acute management, it could be a difficult approach due to its painfulness and the occasional failure of mechanical capture. Drug therapy is a feasible choice, and current guidelines encompass the use of atropine, dopamine, or epinephrine. Isoprenaline has never been investigated in this setting, and no specific indication of its use has been provided despite its potentially more favorable pharmacological profile. The study population included a consecutive series of patients who presented to the emergency department because of unstable third-degree atrioventricular block and were treated with either isoprenaline or dopamine infusion while waiting for definitive pacemaker implantation. Asymptomatic patients or those with reversible causes of complete atrioventricular block were excluded. The clinical response to the drug was deemed poor if, despite achieving a full drug dose, patients remained symptomatic and/or with hemodynamic instability, ventricular rate and rhythm did not improve or worsened, including if ventricular arrhythmias or asystolic pauses and/or irrepressible nausea/vomiting occurred. Isoprenaline infusion has proved to be safe and tolerated with no arrhythmia induction or hypotensive issues. Isoprenaline has also proven to be more satisfactory in achieving an effective clinical response in 84% of patients rather than dopamine (31%, p < 0.001), reducing the need for temporary artificial pacing. Our data point out the efficacy and safety of isoprenaline infusion and its greater tolerability over dopamine in the acute management of unstable third-degree AV block while waiting for definitive pacemaker implantation.
Additive Manufacturing and Characterization of Sustainable Wood Fiber-Reinforced Green Composites
Authors: Billings Christopher , Siddique Ridwan , Sherwood Benjamin , Hall Joshua , Liu Yingtao
Published: November 2023

Enhancing mechanical properties of environmentally friendly and renewable polymers by the introduction of natural fibers not only paves the way for developing sustainable composites but also enables new opportunities in advanced additive manufacturing (AM). In this paper, wood fibers, as a versatile renewable resource of cellulose, are integrated within bio-based polylactic acid (PLA) polymer for the development and 3D printing of sustainable and recycle green composites using fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology. The 3D-printed composites are comprehensively characterized to understand critical materials properties, including density, porosity, microstructures, tensile modulus, and ultimate strength. Non-contact digital image correlation (DIC) technology is employed to understand local stress and strain concentration during mechanical testing. The validated FDB-based AM process is employed to print honeycombs, woven bowls, and frame bins to demonstrate the manufacturing capability. The performance of 3D-printed honeycombs is tested under compressive loads with DIC to fully evaluate the mechanical performance and failure mechanism of ultra-light honeycomb structures. The research outcomes can be used to guide the design and optimization of AM-processed composite structures in a broad range of engineering applications.