bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Overmolding Process of Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Poly (Aryl Ether Ketone) (PAEK)/Poly (Ether Ether Ketone) (PEEK) Thermoplastic Composites
Authors: Zhao Ziyue , Zhang Jindong , Bi Ran , Chen Chunhai , Yao Jianan , Liu Gang
Published: June 2023

This paper used poly (aryl ether ketone) (PAEK) resin with a low melting temperature to prepare laminate via the compression-molding process for continuous-carbon-fiber-reinforced composites (CCF-PAEK). Then, poly (ether ether ketone) (PEEK), or a short-carbon-fiber-reinforced poly (ether ether ketone) (SCF-PEEK) with a high melting temperature, was injected to prepare the overmolding composites. The shear strength of short beams was used to characterize the interface bonding strength of composites. The results showed that the interface properties of the composite were affected by the interface temperature, which was adjusted by mold temperature. PAEK and PEEK formed a better interfacial bonding at higher interface temperatures. The shear strength of the SCF-PEEK/CCF-PAEK short beam was 77 MPa when the mold temperature was 220 °C and 85 MPa when the mold temperature was raised to 260 °C. The melting temperature did not significantly affect the shear strength of SCF-PEEK/CCF-PAEK short beams. For the melting temperature increasing from 380 °C to 420 °C, the shear strength of the SCF-PEEK/CCF-PAEK short beam ranged from 83 MPa to 87 MPa. The microstructure and failure morphology of the composite was observed using an optical microscope. A molecular dynamics model was established to simulate the adhesion of PAEK and PEEK at different mold temperatures. The interfacial bonding energy and diffusion coefficient agreed with the experimental results.
Vanadium–Titanium Magnetite Concentrate, Calcium–Magnesium Composite Roasting and Sulfuric Acid Leaching for Vanadium Extraction from Pellets
Authors: Peng Zhonghui , Wang Zhixiang , Han Zhongchen , Zhu Yongze , Li Yang , Xie Keqiang
Published: June 2023

This paper investigated a pellet ore production process in which vanadium was extracted from vanadium and titanium magnetite concentrates using sulfuric acid leaching. Calcium and magnesium were added to the iron ore concentrate during pellet production to produce calcium vanadate and magnesium vanadate after roasting. The pellets were leached with sulfuric acid solution to extract V5+. The resulting pellets had a compressive strength of 3375 N after primary roasting, a good pellet morphology after acid leaching, and simple liquid–solid separation. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the vanadium leaching rate in the pellets reached 77.86%, while the iron leaching rate was only 1.17%. The pellets did not fragment, which was an improvement upon existing vanadium extraction methods. The strength of the pellets after vanadium extraction decreased to 563 N, but after secondary roasting, the compressive strength of the pellets reached 2578 N, which was suitable for blast furnace ironmaking. The roasting and acid leaching experiments showed that the vanadium extraction process resulted in suitable pellet properties. The use of low compound additives can effectively improve the leaching effect, while avoiding the previous problems of too many additives, pellet iron grade reduction, or the pursuit of high vanadium extraction rate pellet breakage and serious high secondary use process costs.
The Corrosion and Wear-Corrosion of the Iron-Base Amorphous Coating Prepared by the HVOF Spraying
Authors: Liao Pin-Hsun , Jian Jing-Wei , Tsay Leu-Wen
Published: June 2023

In this work, the corrosion behaviors of an iron-based amorphous coating produced by high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) spraying were investigated. Potentiodynamic and potentiostatic polarization and corrosion pin-on-ring (corrosion-wear) tests were conducted to evaluate the corrosive properties of the coating as compared with the 316L substrate. The corrosion behaviors of the 316L substrate and coated sample were tested in 3.5 wt.% NaCl, 1 M HCl, and 0.5 M H2SO4 solutions. In the 3.5 wt.% NaCl and 1 M HCl solutions, the corrosion resistance of the coating was a little inferior or equivalent to that of the 316L substrate after potentiodynamic polarization tests. In the 0.5 M H2SO4 solution, the two tested samples exhibited wide passivated zones in the polarization curves. In such a mild acid, the corrosion resistance of the 316 substrate was superior to that of the amorphous coating, possibly due to the presence of defects in the coating. After potentiodynamic polarization tests, the linkage of initial fine pits into large, deep pores was seen in the corroded 316L substrate. By contrast, extensive corrosion along with preferentially corroded defective sites was seen in the coating. Moreover, the coating exhibited a much higher resistance to corrosion-wear, or low weight loss, in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. After the corrosion-wear tests, deep furrows were present in the 316L substrate, whereas a rubbed smooth surface and a corroded zone were seen in the coating. The greater weight loss of the 316L substrate confirmed its poor resistance to corrosion-wear relative to the amorphous coating in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution.
Differences in the Production of Extracellular Polymeric Substances (EPS) and Other Metabolites of Plenodomus (Leptosphaeria) Infecting Winter Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Nowak Artur , Kutyła Mateusz , Kaczmarek Joanna , Jaroszuk-Ściseł Jolanta , Jędryczka Małgorzata
Published: June 2023

Species of the genus Plenodomus (Leptosphaeria) are phytopathogens of the Brassicaceae family, which includes oilseed rape. The spores of these fungi spread by airborne transmission, infect plants, and cause crop losses. The secondary metabolism of P. lingam and P. biglobosus was studied and compared, with the main focus being on the ability to produce Extracellular Polymeric Substances (EPS). In spite of the 1.5–2-fold faster growth rate of P. biglobosus on Czapek-Dox and other screening media, the average yield of EPS in this fungus was only 0.29 g/L, compared to that of P. lingam (0.43 g/L). In turn, P. biglobosus showed a higher capacity to synthesise IAA, i.e., 14 µg/mL, in contrast to <1.5 µg/mL produced by P. lingam. On the other hand, the P. lingam strains showed higher β-glucanase activity (350–400 mU/mL), compared to 50–100 mU/mL in P. biglobosus. Invertase levels were similar in both species (250 mU/mL). The positive correlation between invertase activity and EPS yield contrasted with the absence of a correlation of EPS with β-glucanase. Plenodomus neither solubilised phosphate nor used proteins from milk. All strains showed the ability to synthesise siderophores on CAS agar. P. biglobosus exhibited the highest efficiency of amylolytic and cellulolytic activity.
Research on Intelligent Wheelchair Attitude-Based Adjustment Method Based on Action Intention Recognition
Authors: Cui Jianwei , Huang Zizheng , Li Xiang , Cui Linwei , Shang Yucheng , Tong Liyan
Published: June 2023

At present, research on intelligent wheelchairs mostly focuses on motion control, while research on attitude-based adjustment is relatively insufficient. The existing methods for adjusting wheelchair posture generally lack collaborative control and good human–machine collaboration. This article proposes an intelligent wheelchair posture-adjustment method based on action intention recognition by studying the relationship between the force changes on the contact surface between the human body and the wheelchair and the action intention. This method is applied to a multi-part adjustable electric wheelchair, which is equipped with multiple force sensors to collect pressure information from various parts of the passenger’s body. The upper level of the system converts the pressure data into the form of a pressure distribution map, extracts the shape features using the VIT deep learning model, identifies and classifies them, and ultimately identifies the action intentions of the passengers. Based on different action intentions, the electric actuator is controlled to adjust the wheelchair posture. After testing, this method can effectively collect the body pressure data of passengers, with an accuracy of over 95% for the three common intentions of lying down, sitting up, and standing up. The wheelchair can adjust its posture based on the recognition results. By adjusting the wheelchair posture through this method, users do not need to wear additional equipment and are less affected by the external environment. The target function can be achieved with simple learning, which has good human–machine collaboration and can solve the problem of some people having difficulty adjusting the wheelchair posture independently during wheelchair use.
Impact of DEMs for Improvement Sentinel 2 Lithological Mapping Utilizing Support Vector Machine: A Case Study of Mineralized Fe-Ti-Rich Gabbroic Rocks from the South Eastern Desert of Egypt
Authors: Shebl Ali , El-Desoky Hatem M. , Abdel-Rahman Ahmed M. , Fahmy Wael , El-Awny Hamada , El-Sherif Anas , El-Rahmany Mahmoud M. , Csámer Árpád
Published: June 2023

Fused remote sensing datasets have greatly contributed to enhancing lithological targets and providing significant information for mineral exploration. For instance, multispectral datasets can discriminate rock units through their unique spectral signatures. Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) could be an effective tool boosting lithological discrimination based mainly on their topographic variations. Consequently, the current study applied the power of the support vector machine (SVM) algorithm and the integrated Phased Array L-type band Synthetic Aperture Radar (PALSAR) DEM and multispectral Sentinel 2 data to: 1—Create an updated lithological map of a poorly mapped arid terrain (Khashir-Ras El-Kharit district, Eastern Desert of Egypt), and 2—Compare and assess the distribution of ferrogabbros with the aim of improving the localization of these rock bodies and investigating their mineral content. Our results enhanced the lithological mapping and revealed a better generalization of mineralized ferrogabbros when the input was a fused DEM with Sentinel 2 compared to the salt and pepper effect observed when adopting the Sentinel 2 solely as the input data. Additionally, the current research strongly recommends detailed exploration programs for Fe-Ti oxide ores within the gabbroic rocks delineated through the resultant thematic map. The ferrogabbros were subjected to a comprehensive analysis involving whole rock geochemistry, XRD, EDX, and light-reflecting investigations, which revealed the existence of magnetite, titanomagnetite, and hematite. The titanomagnetite crystals display subhedral morphology and exhibit fine- to medium-grained surfaces with irregular shapes. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the presence of magnetite and hematite in the concentrated Fe-Ti oxides. Additionally, the whole rock geochemistry highlighted the origin of the ferrogabbros and their proposed tectonic setting as an alkaline to calc-alkaline magma type that developed in a continental arc setting.
Recurring Patterns of Sea Level Changes within a Palynological-Based Sequence Stratigraphy Framework of the Middle Jurassic Organic Matter-Rich Khatatba Formation, Egypt
Authors: Mansour Ahmed , Tahoun Sameh S. , Raafat Aya , Ahmed Mohamed S. , Gentzis Thomas
Published: June 2023

The Middle Jurassic was a time of marginal to shallow shelf settings dominated by organic matter-rich deposition in northern Egypt, southern Tethys. Paleoenvironmental and sequence stratigraphic reconstructions are of paramount significance for a better understanding of basin history and related reservoirs and source rock units. For this purpose, a detailed palynomorph and palynofacies analysis of the Middle Jurassic Khatatba Formation in the Dahab-Mireir Basin, north Western Desert, was conducted. A moderately to well-preserved, moderately diverse palynomorph assemblage of spores, pollen, and dinoflagellate cysts is identified. Marker dinoflagellate cysts, including Dichadogonyaulax sellwoodii, Escharisphaeridia pocokii, Gonyaulacysta adecta, Korystocysta gochtii, Pareodinia ceratophora, and Wanaea acollaris, defined a Bajocian to Callovian age. Palynofacies analysis of the Khatatba Formation revealed two assemblages, whereby PFA-1 is the most abundant in the study well and is comprised mainly of terrestrial phytoclasts deposited nearby fluvio-deltaic sources. The infrequently reported PFA-2 consists of moderate abundances of phytoclasts and AOM, deposited in an inner shelf environment. A more reliable paleoenvironmental interpretation was indicated based on three palynomorph assemblages. The spore-dominated assemblage indicated deposition in a deltaic environment, while the mixed palynomorph assemblage revealed fluvio-deltaic to marginal shallow marine conditions. The microplankton-dominated assemblage is represented by minor samples and reflects an offshore inner shelf condition. Furthermore, the Middle Jurassic relative sea level was reconstructed based on the quantitative variations in the terrestrial/marine (T:M) ratios and abundances of spores, pollen, and dinoflagellate cysts. This led to the subdivide of the Khatatba Formation into thirteen third-order transgressive-regressive sequences, which can be correlated with the global Jurassic short-term sea level changes. Active tectonics and accelerated drifting of the Eurasian Plate during the Middle Jurassic are suggested to control basin uplift/subsidence and, therefore, recurring patterns of relative sea level change.
Bioleaching of Metals from E-Waste Using Microorganisms: A Review
Authors: Adetunji Adegoke Isiaka , Oberholster Paul Johan , Erasmus Mariana
Published: June 2023

The rapid and improper disposal of electronic waste (e-waste) has become an issue of great concern, resulting in serious threats to the environment and public health. In addition, e-waste is heterogenous in nature, consisting of a variety of valuable metals in large quantities, hence the need for the development of a promising technology to ameliorate environmental hazards associated with the indiscriminate dumping of e-waste, and for the recovery of metal components present in waste materials, thus promoting e-waste management and reuse. Various physico-chemical techniques including hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy have been employed in the past for the mobilization of metals from e-waste. However, these approaches have proven to be inept due to high operational costs linked to the consumption of huge amounts of chemicals and energy, together with high metal loss and the release of secondary byproducts. An alternative method to avert the above-mentioned limitations is the adoption of microorganisms (bioleaching) as an efficient, cost-effective, eco-friendly, and sustainable technology for the solubilization of metals from e-waste. Metal recovery from e-waste is influenced by microbiological, physico-chemical, and mineralogical parameters. This review, therefore, provides insights into strategies or pathways used by microorganisms for the recovery of metals from e-waste.
Extraction, Purification, Structural Characteristics, Health Benefits, and Application of the Polysaccharides from Lonicera japonica Thunb.: A Review
Authors: Yang Xinpeng , Yu Aiqi , Hu Wenjing , Zhang Zhaojiong , Ruan Ye , Kuang Haixue , Wang Meng
Published: June 2023

Lonicera japonica Thunb. is a widely distributed plant with ornamental, economic, edible, and medicinal values. L. japonica is a phytoantibiotic with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and a potent therapeutic effect on various infectious diseases. The anti-diabetic, anti-Alzheimer’s disease, anti-depression, antioxidative, immunoregulatory, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-gout, and anti-alcohol-addiction effects of L. japonica can also be explained by bioactive polysaccharides isolated from this plant. Several researchers have determined the molecular weight, chemical structure, and monosaccharide composition and ratio of L. japonica polysaccharides by water extraction and alcohol precipitation, enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE) and chromatography. This article searched in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, Flora of China, Web of Science, PubMed, and CNKI databases within the last 12 years, using “Lonicera. japonica polysaccharides”, “Lonicera. japonica Thunb. polysaccharides”, and “Honeysuckle polysaccharides” as the key word, systematically reviewed the extraction and purification methods, structural characteristics, structure-activity relationship, and health benefits of L. japonica polysaccharides to provide insights for future studies. Further, we elaborated on the potential applications of L. japonica polysaccharides in the food, medicine, and daily chemical industry, such as using L. japonica as raw material to make lozenges, soy sauce and toothpaste, etc. This review will be a useful reference for the further optimization of functional products developed from L. japonica polysaccharides.
Production and Incorporation of Calcium-Hydrolyzed Nanoparticles in Alkali-Activated Mine Tailings
Authors: Perera-Mercado Yibran , Zhang Nan , Hedayat Ahmadreza , Figueroa Linda , Saucedo-Salazar Esmeralda , Clements Cara , Bolaños Sosa Héctor Gelber , Tupa Néstor , Morales Isaac Yanqui , Canahua Loza Reynaldo Sabino
Published: June 2023

This work presented the production and incorporation of calcium-hydrolyzed nano-solutions at three concentrations (1, 2, and 3 wt.%) in alkali-activated gold mine tailings (MTs) from Arequipa, Perú. As the primary activator solution, a sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution at 10 M was used. Calcium-hydrolyzed nanoparticles with a particle size of 10 nm were localized inside self-assembled molecular spherical systems (micelles) with diameters of less than 80 nm that were well-dispersed in aqueous solutions and acted as secondary activator, and also as additional calcium resource for alkali-activated materials (AAMs) based on low-calcium gold MTs. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (HR-TEM/EDS) analyses were carried out to characterize the morphology, size, and structure of the calcium-hydrolyzed nanoparticles. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analyses were then used to understand the chemical bonding interactions in the calcium-hydrolyzed nanoparticles and in the AAMs. Scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) and quantitative X-ray diffraction (QXRD) were performed to study the structural, chemical, and phase compositions of the AAMs; uniaxial compressive tests evaluated the compressive strength of the reaction AAMs; and nitrogen adsorption–desorption analyses measured porosity changes in the AAMs at the nanostructure level. The results indicated that the main cementing product generated was amorphous binder gel with low quantities of nanostructured C-S-H and C-A-S-H phases. The surplus production of this amorphous binder gel produced denser AAMs at the micro-level and nano-level (macroporous systems). In addition, each increase in the concentration of calcium-hydrolyzed nano-solution had a direct/proportional effect on the mechanical properties of the AAM samples. AAM with 3 wt.% calcium-hydrolyzed nano-solution had the highest compressive strength, with a value of 15.16 MPa, which represented an increase of 62% compared with the original system without nanoparticles that were aged under the same conditions at 70 °C for seven days. These results provided useful information about the positive effect of calcium-hydrolyzed nanoparticles on gold MTs and their conversion into sustainable building materials through alkali activation.
The Influence of Surface Processing on the Surface Plasmonic Enhancement of an Al-Nanoparticles-Enhanced ZnO UV Photodectector
Authors: Li Gaoming , Yan Qianwen , Zhao Xiaolong , He Yongning
Published: June 2023

Surface Plasmonic Resonance (SPR) induced by metallic nanoparticles can be exploited to enhance the response of photodetectors (PD) to a large degree. Since the interface between metallic nanoparticles and semiconductors plays an important role in SPR, the magnitude of the enhancement is highly dependent on the morphology and roughness of the surface where the nanoparticles are distributed. In this work, we used mechanical polishing to produce different surface roughnesses for the ZnO film. Then, we exploited sputtering to fabricate Al nanoparticles on the ZnO film. The size and spacing of the Al nanoparticles were adjusted by sputtering power and time. Finally, we made a comparison among the PD with surface processing only, the Al-nanoparticles-enhanced PD, and the Al-nanoparticles-enhanced PD with surface processing. The results showed that increasing the surface roughness could enhance the photo response due to the augmentation of light scattering. More interestingly, the SPR induced by the Al nanoparticles could be strengthened by increasing the roughness. The responsivity could be enlarged by three orders of magnitude after we introduced surface roughness to boost the SPR. This work revealed the mechanism behind how surface roughness influences SPR enhancement. This provides new means for improving the photo responses of SPR-enhanced photodetectors.
Investigation of the Influence of Wound-Treatment-Relevant Buffer Systems on the Colloidal and Optical Properties of Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Selmani Atiđa , Jeitler Ramona , Auinger Michael , Tetyczka Carolin , Banzer Peter , Kantor Brian , Leitinger Gerd , Roblegg Eva
Published: June 2023

Biocompatible gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are used in wound healing due to their radical scavenging activity. They shorten wound healing time by, for example, improving re-epithelialization and promoting the formation of new connective tissue. Another approach that promotes wound healing through cell proliferation while inhibiting bacterial growth is an acidic microenvironment, which can be achieved with acid-forming buffers. Accordingly, a combination of these two approaches appears promising and is the focus of the present study. Here, 18 nm and 56 nm gold NP (Au) were prepared with Turkevich reduction synthesis using design-of-experiments methodology, and the influence of pH and ionic strength on their behaviour was investigated. The citrate buffer had a pronounced effect on the stability of AuNPs due to the more complex intermolecular interactions, which was also confirmed by the changes in optical properties. In contrast, AuNPs dispersed in lactate and phosphate buffer were stable at therapeutically relevant ionic strength, regardless of their size. Simulation of the local pH distribution near the particle surface also showed a steep pH gradient for particles smaller than 100 nm. This suggests that the healing potential is further enhanced by a more acidic environment at the particle surface, making this strategy a promising approach.
Review of Electrochemically Synthesized Resistive Switching Devices: Memory Storage, Neuromorphic Computing, and Sensing Applications
Authors: Kundale Somnath S. , Kamble Girish U. , Patil Pradnya P. , Patil Snehal L. , Rokade Kasturi A. , Khot Atul C. , Nirmal Kiran A. , Kamat Rajanish K. , Kim Kyeong Heon , An Ho-Myoung , Dongale Tukaram D. , Kim Tae Geun
Published: June 2023

Resistive-switching-based memory devices meet most of the requirements for use in next-generation information and communication technology applications, including standalone memory devices, neuromorphic hardware, and embedded sensing devices with on-chip storage, due to their low cost, excellent memory retention, compatibility with 3D integration, in-memory computing capabilities, and ease of fabrication. Electrochemical synthesis is the most widespread technique for the fabrication of state-of-the-art memory devices. The present review article summarizes the electrochemical approaches that have been proposed for the fabrication of switching, memristor, and memristive devices for memory storage, neuromorphic computing, and sensing applications, highlighting their various advantages and performance metrics. We also present the challenges and future research directions for this field in the concluding section.
The Effect of Nanomaterials on DNA Methylation: A Review
Authors: Valente Ana , Vieira Luís , Silva Maria João , Ventura Célia
Published: June 2023

DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism that involves the addition of a methyl group to a cytosine residue in CpG dinucleotides, which are particularly abundant in gene promoter regions. Several studies have highlighted the role that modifications of DNA methylation may have on the adverse health effects caused by exposure to environmental toxicants. One group of xenobiotics that is increasingly present in our daily lives are nanomaterials, whose unique physicochemical properties make them interesting for a large number of industrial and biomedical applications. Their widespread use has raised concerns about human exposure, and several toxicological studies have been performed, although the studies focusing on nanomaterials’ effect on DNA methylation are still limited. The aim of this review is to investigate the possible impact of nanomaterials on DNA methylation. From the 70 studies found eligible for data analysis, the majority were in vitro, with about half using cell models related to the lungs. Among the in vivo studies, several animal models were used, but most were mice models. Only two studies were performed on human exposed populations. Global DNA methylation analyses was the most frequently applied approach. Although no trend towards hypo- or hyper-methylation could be observed, the importance of this epigenetic mechanism in the molecular response to nanomaterials is evident. Furthermore, methylation analysis of target genes and, particularly, the application of comprehensive DNA methylation analysis techniques, such as genome-wide sequencing, allowed identifying differentially methylated genes after nanomaterial exposure and affected molecular pathways, contributing to the understanding of their possible adverse health effects.
Assessment of Nutrient Intake and Diet Quality in Adolescent Dietary Supplement Users vs. Non-Users: The CRO-PALS Longitudinal Study
Authors: Mudnić Željana , Gaši Amanda , Rešetar Josip , Gajdoš Kljusurić Jasenka , Mišigoj-Duraković Marjeta , Sorić Maroje , Panjkota Krbavčić Ines , Šatalić Zvonimir
Published: June 2023

Dietary supplement users tend to have a better diet quality and overall prudent lifestyle. The main goals of this research were to report the prevalence and type of dietary supplements among Croatian adolescents and to examine the differences in the diet quality among dietary supplement users vs. non-users at the beginning (15/16 y) and at the end of high school education (18/19 y). This research is based on results of the longitudinal CRO-PALS study in which 607 adolescents participated, who had complete dietary, anthropometric, and physical activity data at the beginning (15/16 y) and at the end of their high school education (18/19 y). The dietary assessment method used was a single multi-pass 24 h recall. Dietary supplement users were divided into two groups for the purposes of statistical analysis—users of vitamin and multivitamin preparations (VMV) and users of mineral and multivitamin preparations (MMV). As they aged, there was an increase in the consumption of dietary supplements, and the most frequently used preparation in both age groups was vitamin C (23.7% of users). Dietary supplement users had a higher intake of non-carbonated sweetened drinks and a lower intake of fruits and vegetables in both genders and both age groups. Fast food intake was higher among dietary supplement girl users and boys who were not dietary supplements users in both age groups. Dietary supplement users had a higher achieved average intake of most micronutrients (values obtained only from food) in both genders and both age groups (with exceptions for certain vitamins and minerals). By observing other parameters for assessing the diet quality in this research, we can conclude that girls who do not use dietary supplements have a better diet quality in both age groups.
Predicting the Adoption of a Sustainable Diet in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in Italy
Authors: Biasini Beatrice , Rosi Alice , Scazzina Francesca , Menozzi Davide
Published: June 2023

Shifting food choices towards sustainability entails the analysis of dietary behavior determinants. This study aimed to explain and predict the intention to follow a sustainable diet and its adoption in a representative sample of adults (n = 838) in Italy. An online survey based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) was developed. The adoption of a sustainable diet was measured as self-perceived behavior, adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD), and food consumption frequencies. Psychometric analysis and correlations between attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control (PBC) with both intention and behavior assessments were evaluated. Structural equation models were used to test whether and to what extent attitude, subjective norms, and PBC explained intention and behavior. Significant associations were found between TPB constructs and the behavior measures underlining the main role of intention and PBC in affecting behavior. The applied TPB models explained behavioral intention at most (78%). The results suggested promising interventions in narrowing the attitude–behavior gap to encourage specific adult population groups in Italy to adopt virtuous food consumption habits. Beside the implementation of price mechanism strategies, educational initiatives to increase awareness about food and diet sustainability issues and the reinforcement of the perceived control on food consumption at the individual level are recommended.
Effectiveness of Intermittent Preventive Treatment with Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine in Pregnancy: Low Coverage and High Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum dhfr-dhps Quintuple Mutants as Major Challenges in Douala, an Urban Setting in Cameroon
Authors: Eboumbou Moukoko Carole Else , Kojom Foko Loick Pradel , Ayina Angèle , Tornyigah Bernard , Epote Annie Rachel , Penda Ida Calixte , Epee Eboumbou Patricia , Ebong Serge Bruno , Texier Gaetan , Nsango Sandrine Eveline , Ayong Lawrence , Tuikue Ndam Nicaise , Same Ekobo Albert
Published: June 2023

Intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy with sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) is a key component in the malaria control strategy implemented in Africa. The aim of this study was to determine IPTp-SP adherence and coverage, and the impact on maternal infection and birth outcomes in the context of widespread SP resistance in the city of Douala, Cameroon. Clinical and demographic information were documented among 888 pregnant women attending 3 health facilities, from the antenatal care visit to delivery. Positive samples were genotyped for P. falciparum gene (dhfr, dhps, and k13) mutations. The overall IPTp-SP coverage (≥three doses) was 17.5%, and 5.1% received no dose. P. falciparum prevalence was 16%, with a predominance of submicroscopic infections (89.3%). Malaria infection was significantly associated with locality and history of malaria, and it was reduced among women using indoor residual spraying. Optimal doses of IPTp-SP were significantly associated with reduced infection among newborns and women (secundiparous and multiparous), but there was no impact of IPTp-SP on the newborn bodyweight. Pfdhfr-Pfdhps quintuple mutants were over-represented (IRNI-FGKAA, IRNI-AGKAA), and sextuple mutants (IRNI-AGKAS, IRNI-FGEAA, IRNI-AGKGS) were also reported. The Pfk13 gene mutations associated with artemisinin resistance were not detected. This study highlights the role of ANC in achieving optimal SP coverage in pregnant women, the mitigated impact of IPTp-SP on malaria outcomes, and the high prevalence of multiple SP-resistant P. falciparum parasites in the city of Douala that could compromise the efficacy of IPTp-SP.
Development of a Minimalistic Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (mPBPK) Model for the Preclinical Development of Spectinamide Antibiotics
Authors: Parmar Keyur R. , Lukka Pradeep B. , Wagh Santosh , Temrikar Zaid H. , Liu Jiuyu , Lee Richard E. , Braunstein Miriam , Hickey Anthony J. , Robertson Gregory T. , Gonzalez-Juarrero Mercedes , Edginton Andrea , Meibohm Bernd
Published: June 2023

Spectinamides 1599 and 1810 are lead spectinamide compounds currently under preclinical development to treat multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) tuberculosis. These compounds have previously been tested at various combinations of dose level, dosing frequency, and route of administration in mouse models of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection and in healthy animals. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling allows the prediction of the pharmacokinetics of candidate drugs in organs/tissues of interest and extrapolation of their disposition across different species. Here, we have built, qualified, and refined a minimalistic PBPK model that can describe and predict the pharmacokinetics of spectinamides in various tissues, especially those relevant to Mtb infection. The model was expanded and qualified for multiple dose levels, dosing regimens, routes of administration, and various species. The model predictions in mice (healthy and infected) and rats were in reasonable agreement with experimental data, and all predicted AUCs in plasma and tissues met the two-fold acceptance criteria relative to observations. To further explore the distribution of spectinamide 1599 within granuloma substructures as encountered in tuberculosis, we utilized the Simcyp granuloma model combined with model predictions in our PBPK model. Simulation results suggest substantial exposure in all lesion substructures, with particularly high exposure in the rim area and macrophages. The developed model may be leveraged as an effective tool in identifying optimal dose levels and dosing regimens of spectinamides for further preclinical and clinical development.
Business Risk Mitigation in the Development Process of New Monoclonal Antibody Drug Conjugates for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Kiss Balázs , Borbély János
Published: June 2023

Recent developments aim to extend the cytotoxic effect and therapeutic window of mAbs by constructing antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs), in which the targeting moiety is the mAb that is linked to a highly toxic drug. According to a report from mid of last year, the global ADCs market accounted for USD 1387 million in 2016 and was worth USD 7.82 billion in 2022. It is estimated to increase in value to USD 13.15 billion by 2030. One of the critical points is the linkage of any substituent to the functional group of the mAb. Increasing the efficacy against cancer cells’ highly cytotoxic molecules (warheads) are connected biologically. The connections are completed by different types of linkers, or there are efforts to add biopolymer-based nanoparticles, including chemotherapeutic agents. Recently, a combination of ADC technology and nanomedicine opened a new pathway. To fulfill the scientific knowledge for this complex development, our aim is to write an overview article that provides a basic introduction to ADC which describes the current and future opportunities in therapeutic areas and markets. Through this approach, we show which development directions are relevant both in terms of therapeutic area and market potential. Opportunities to reduce business risks are presented as new development principles.
Estimation of the Controlled Release of Antioxidants from β-Cyclodextrin/Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) or Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum L.), Asteraceae, Hydrophilic Extract Complexes through the Fast and Cheap Spectrophotometric Technique
Authors: Horablaga Adina , Şibu (Ciobanu) Alina , Megyesi Corina Iuliana , Gligor (Pane) Dina , Bujancă Gabriel Stelian , Velciov Ariana Bianca , Morariu Florica Emilia , Hădărugă Daniel Ioan , Mişcă Corina Dana , Hădărugă Nicoleta Gabriela
Published: June 2023

This is the first study on the modeling of the controlled release of the estimated antioxidants (flavonoids or flavonolignans) from β-cyclodextrin (β-CD)/hydrophilic vegetable extract complexes and the modeling of transdermal pharmaceutical formulations based on these complexes using an overall estimation by the spectrophotometric method. The Korsmeyer–Peppas model was chosen for evaluating the release mechanisms. β-CD/chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L., Asteraceae) ethanolic extract and β-CD/milk thistle (Silybum marianum L., Asteraceae) ethanolic extract complexes were obtained by the co-crystallization method with good recovering yields of 55–76%, slightly lower than for β-CD/silibinin or silymarin complexes (~87%). According to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Karl Fischer water titration (KFT), the thermal stability of complexes is similar to β-CD hydrate while the hydration water content is lower, revealing the formation of molecular inclusion complexes. In the Korsmeyer–Peppas model, β-CD/M. chamomilla flower extract complexes reveal Case II transport mechanisms, while the corresponding complexes with leaf extracts indicate non-Fickian diffusion for the controlled release of antioxidants in ethanol 60 and 96%. The same non-Fickian diffusion was revealed by β-CD/S. marianum extract and β-CD/silibinin complexes. On the contrary, almost all model transdermal pharmaceutical formulations based on β-CD/M. chamomilla extract complexes and all those based on β-CD/S. marianum extract complexes revealed non-Fickian diffusion for the antioxidant release. These results indicate that H-bonding is mainly involved in the diffusion of antioxidants into a β-CD based matrix, while the controlled release of antioxidants in model formulations is mainly due to hydrophobic interactions. Results obtained in this study can be further used for studying the particular antioxidants (namely rutin or silibinin, quantified, for example, by liquid chromatographic techniques) for their transdermal transport and biological effects in innovatively designed pharmaceutical formulations that can be obtained using “green” methods and materials.
A First Approach for the Micropropagation of the Edible and Medicinal Halophyte Inula crithmoides L.
Authors: Rodrigues Maria João , Castañeda-Loaiza Viana , Fernandes Eliana , Custódio Luísa
Published: June 2023

Inula crithmoides L. (golden samphire) is an edible aromatic halophyte species with confirmed nutritional and medicinal properties attributed to the presence of important metabolites, including proteins, carotenoids, vitamins, and minerals. Therefore, this study aimed at establishing a micropropagation protocol for golden samphire that can serve as a nursery approach to its standardized commercial cultivation. For that purpose, a complete regeneration protocol was developed by improving shoot multiplication from nodal explants, rooting, and acclimatization methodologies. The treatment with BAP alone induced the maximum shoot formation (7–7.8 shoots/explant), while IAA treatment increased the shoot height (9.26–9.5 cm). Furthermore, the treatment that coupled best shoot multiplication (7.8 shoots/explant) and highest shoot height (7.58 cm) was MS medium supplemented with 0.25 mg/L BAP. Moreover, all shoots produced roots (100% rooting), and multiplication treatments did not exert significant effect on root length (7.8–9.7 cm/plantlet). Moreover, by the end of the rooting phase, plantlets cultivated with 0.25 mg/L BAP had the highest shoot number (4.2 shoots/plantlet), and plantlets from 0.6 mg/L IAA + 1 mg/L BAP presented the highest shoot height (14.2 cm) similar to control plantlets (14.0 cm). The survival up to the ex-vitro acclimatization stage was increased from 9.8% (control) to 83.3%, when plants were treated with a paraffin solution. Nevertheless, the in vitro multiplication of golden samphire is a promising way for its rapid propagation and can be used as a nursery method, contributing to the development of this species as an alternative food and medicinal crop.
Long-Term Nutrient Cycle in Improved Grain Yield of Dryland Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Hydrological Process of Plant Ecosystem Distribution in the Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Noor Hafeez , Shah Anis Ali , Ding Pengcheng , Ren Aixia , Sun Min , Gao Zhiqiang
Published: June 2023

Precipitation is the major cause of crop yield variation in rainfed agriculture production in the Loess Plateau. As over fertilization is economically and environmentally undesirable, and crop yield and the resulting returns for N input are uncertain when rainfall variability is high, optimizing N management according to precipitation during fallow season is vital for efficient crop water use and high yield in dryland rainfed farming systems. Results show that the nitrogen treatment rate of 180 treatment significantly increased the tiller percentage rate, and the leaf area index at anthesis, the jointing anthesis, anthesis maturity dry matter, and nitrogen accumulation was closely related to yield. N150 treatment compared to N180 treatment significantly increased the percentage of ear-bearing tiller by 7%, dry substance accretion from jointing to anthesis by 9%, and yield by 17% and 15%, respectively. Our study has important implications for the assessment of the effects of fallow precipitation, as well as for the sustainable development of dryland agriculture in the Loess Plateau. Our results indicate that adjusting N fertilizer inputs based on summer rainfall variation could enhance wheat yield in rainfed farming systems.
Adsorption Characterization of Cu(II) and Cd(II) by a Magnetite–Chitosan Composite: Kinetic, Thermodynamic and Equilibrium Studies
Authors: Hu Chao , Zheng Zuhong , Huang Mengyao , Yang Fan , Wu Xuewei , Zhang Aiqun
Published: June 2023

Optimizing the use of magnetite–chitosan composites for heavy metal adsorption has been of great interest due to their environmental friendliness. To gain insights into their potential with green synthesis, this study analyzed one of these composites through X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Adsorption properties were then explored via static experiments to evaluate the pH dependence, isotherms, kinetics, thermodynamics and regeneration adsorption of Cu(II) and Cd(II). Results disclosed that the optimum pH of adsorption was 5.0, the equilibrium time was about 10 min, and the capacity for Cu(II) and Cd(II) reached 26.28 and 18.67 mg/g, respectively. The adsorption amount of cations increased with temperature from 25 °C to 35 °C and decreased with further increase in temperature from 40 °C to 50 °C, which might be related to the unfolding of chitosan; the adsorption capacity was above 80% of the initial value after two regenerations and about 60% after five regenerations. The composite has a relatively rough outer surface, but its inner surface and porosity are not obvious; it has functional groups of magnetite and chitosan, and chitosan might dominate the adsorption. Consequently, this research proposes the value of maintaining green synthesis research to further optimize the composite system of heavy metal adsorption.
Exploring the Potential of Fique Fiber as a Natural Composite Material: A Comprehensive Characterization Study
Authors: Muñoz-Blandón Oscar , Ramírez-Carmona Margarita , Rendón-Castrillón Leidy , Ocampo-López Carlos
Published: June 2023

Many studies available in the literature focus mainly on the mechanical characterization of fiber, leaving out other physicochemical and thermogravimetric analyses that allow for establishing its potential as an engineering material. This study characterizes fique fiber for its potential use as an engineering material. The fiber’s chemical composition and physical, thermal, mechanical, and textile properties were analyzed. The fiber has a high holocellulose content and low lignin and pectin content, indicating its potential as a natural composite material for various applications. Infrared spectrum analysis revealed characteristic bands associated with multiple functional groups. The fiber had monofilaments with diameters around 10 μm and 200 μm, as determined by AFM and SEM images, respectively. Mechanical testing showed the fiber could resist a maximum stress of 355.07 MPa, with an average maximum strain at which breakage occurs of 8.7%. The textile characterization revealed a linear density range of 16.34 to 38.83 tex, with an average value of 25.54 tex and a regain of 13.67%. Thermal analysis showed that the fiber’s weight decreased by around 5% due to moisture removal in the range of 40 °C to 100 °C, followed by weight loss due to thermal degradation of hemicellulose and glycosidic linkages of cellulose ranging from 250 to 320 °C. These characteristics suggest that fique fiber can be used in industries such as packaging, construction, composites, and automotive, among others.
Composites Based on Poly(ε-caprolactone) and Graphene Oxide Modified with Oligo/Poly(Glutamic Acid) as Biomaterials with Osteoconductive Properties
Authors: Solomakha Olga , Stepanova Mariia , Gofman Iosif , Nashchekina Yulia , Rabchinskii Maxim , Nashchekin Alexey , Lavrentieva Antonina , Korzhikova-Vlakh Evgenia
Published: June 2023

The development of new biodegradable biomaterials with osteoconductive properties for bone tissue regeneration is one of the urgent tasks of modern medicine. In this study, we proposed the pathway for graphene oxide (GO) modification with oligo/poly(glutamic acid) (oligo/poly(Glu)) possessing osteoconductive properties. The modification was confirmed by a number of methods such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, quantitative amino acid HPLC analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering. Modified GO was used as a filler for poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) in the fabrication of composite films. The mechanical properties of the biocomposites were compared with those obtained for the PCL/GO composites. An 18–27% increase in elastic modulus was found for all composites containing modified GO. No significant cytotoxicity of the GO and its derivatives in human osteosarcoma cells (MG-63) was revealed. Moreover, the developed composites stimulated the proliferation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) adhered to the surface of the films in comparison with unfilled PCL material. The osteoconductive properties of the PCL-based composites filled with GO modified with oligo/poly(Glu) were confirmed via alkaline phosphatase assay as well as calcein and alizarin red S staining after osteogenic differentiation of hMSC in vitro.
Diagnosis Method of Decay-like Composite Insulators in a High-Humidity Environment Based on Characteristic Coefficient of Temperature Rise Gradient
Authors: Zhang Yuming , Hou Sizu , Geng Jianghai , Gong Yijing , Zhong Zheng
Published: June 2023

At present, the temperature rise in insulators is observed using infrared thermometry as a common method of diagnosing decay-like insulators. However, the original characteristic data obtained by infrared thermometry cannot effectively distinguish some of the decay-like insulators from those with ageing sheaths. Therefore, it is imperative to find a new diagnostic characteristic quantity. Based on statistical data, this article first explains that existing diagnostic methods have limited diagnostic effectiveness and a high false detection rate for insulators in a slightly heated state. A full-scale temperature rise test is carried out on a batch of composite insulators returned from the field under high-humidity conditions. Two different defective insulators with similar temperature rise profiles are identified, and an electro-thermal coupling simulation model is developed based on the dielectric characteristic parameters of the above insulators for both core rod defects and sheath ageing. A new infrared diagnostic feature, the temperature rise gradient coefficient, is then obtained to identify the source of abnormal heat in insulators using statistical analysis of an infrared image gallery of abnormally hot composite insulators obtained from field inspections and laboratory tests.