bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(3-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-2-(7,8,12,13-tetraoxa-10-azaspiro[5.7]tridecan-10-yl)propanoic acid) with Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Makhmudiyarova Nataliya N. , Ishmukhametova Irina R. , Dzhemileva Lilya U. , Dzhemilev Usein M.
Published: February 2023

An efficient method for the synthesis of 3-(1H-indol-3-yl)-2-(7,8,12,13-tetraoxa-10-azaspiro[5.7]tridecan-10-yl)propanoic acid) via condensation of 7,8,10,12,13-pentaoxaspiro[5.7]tridecane with tryptophan under the action of a catalyst based on Sm(NO3)3·6H2O has been developed. A high cytotoxic activity of eight-membered azadiperoxide against tumor cells Jurkat, K562, U937, and HL60 was established. Additionally, this compound is an inducer of apoptosis and affects the cell cycle.
The Influence of Recycled Materials on Cold Mix with Foamed Bitumen Properties
Authors: Buczyński Przemysław , Šrámek Juraj , Mazurek Grzegorz
Published: February 2023

The utilization of recycled materials is an important issue in the context of environmental protection. The large amounts of recycled material recovered from the demolition of asphalt road structures indicate the need to find new ways of utilizing them. In the case of road renovation projects, large amounts of recycled materials are, in most cases, recovered in the form of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), reclaimed concrete (RC) and recycled aggregate (RA). To focus on the effects of the use of recovered materials (RAP, RC and RA), the same composition was used for all of the analyzed mixtures in terms of foamed bitumen (FB) and Portland cement (CEM) content. The scope of laboratory tests included the specification of the following parameters: the amount of air void content Vm, the determination of axial compression strength at +25 °C, indirect tensile strength (ITS) at +25 °C, water resistance, TSR, water and frost resistance, WRW+M stiffness modulus (IT-CY) at 13 °C, dynamic dynamicmodulus. The plan of the experiment assumed addition recycled material in quantities between 20% and 80% in increments of 20%. The obtained results indicate that both the type and quantity of recycled material significantly affect the properties of the cold-recycled mixture with foamed bitumen. Using reclaimed asphalt pavement and recycled cement concrete guarantees high levels of stiffness in the recycled mixture. Howeverin the case of recycled aggregate, the authors did not observe any visible changes in the dynamicdynamic modulus, irrespective of the loading conditions. It was also indicated that it is necessary to reduce the quantity of reclaimed asphalt pavement in the composition of the FB-RCM mix to maintain the required air void content.
The Effect of Synthetic Polymer Foams on Cellulosic Material Degradation
Authors: Knotek Vítězslav , Ďurovič Michal , Kučerová Irena
Published: February 2023

Polymeric materials are widely used at present as auxiliary materials in the preservation of tangible cultural heritage in museums, galleries, or libraries. The desired properties of such materials include chemical inertness and long lifetime, which are verified by accelerated aging tests. This work has tested three color types of PE foam Plastazote® LD45 (white, grey, and black), which is recommended for use in the field of cultural heritage preservation. The volatile organic compounds released from the foams after artificial aging and their influence on lignocellulosic materials were investigated. The cellulosic materials were artificially aged in close contact with the foams. All foams released organic acids ranging from acetic acid to hexanoic acid. White foam released organic acids to an extent higher by an order of magnitude compared to the grey and black types. A great influence of white foam on the properties of cellulosic materials was observed. There were large differences in the rate of degradation between the types of foams tested, indicating the need to develop a test method in order to determine the suitability for use in the preservation of culture heritage objects.
Advances and Progress in Self-Healing Hydrogel and Its Application in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Zhu Wei , Zhang Jinyi , Wei Zhanqi , Zhang Baozhong , Weng Xisheng
Published: February 2023

A hydrogel is a three-dimensional structure that holds plenty of water, but brittleness largely limits its application. Self-healing hydrogels, a new type of hydrogel that can be repaired by itself after external damage, have exhibited better fatigue resistance, reusability, hydrophilicity, and responsiveness to environmental stimuli. The past decade has seen rapid progress in self-healing hydrogels. Self-healing hydrogels can automatically self-repair after external damage. Different strategies have been proposed, including dynamic covalent bonds and reversible noncovalent interactions. Compared to traditional hydrogels, self-healing gels have better durability, responsiveness, and plasticity. These features allow the hydrogel to survive in harsh environments or even to be injected as a drug carrier. Here, we summarize the common strategies for designing self-healing hydrogels and their potential applications in clinical practice.
Removal of Phosphorus with the Use of Marl and Travertine and Their Thermally Modified Forms—Factors Affecting the Sorption Capacity of Materials and the Kinetics of the Sorption Process
Authors: Gubernat Sylwia , Masłoń Adam , Czarnota Joanna , Koszelnik Piotr , Chutkowski Marcin , Tupaj Mirosław , Gumieniak Justyna , Kramek Agnieszka , Galek Tomasz
Published: February 2023

The paper presents new reactive materials, namely marl and travertine, and their thermal modifications and the Polonite® material, analyzing their phosphorus removal from water and wastewater by sorption. Based on the experimental data, an analysis of the factors influencing the sorption capacity of the materials, such as the material dose, pH of the initial solution, process temperature, surface structure, and morphology, was performed. Adsorption isotherms and maximum sorption capacities were determined with the use of the Langmuir, Freundlich, Langmuir–Freundlich, Tóth, Radke–Praunitz, and Marczewski–Jaroniec models. The kinetics of the phosphorus sorption process of the tested materials were described using reversible and irreversible pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order, and mixed models. The natural materials were the most sensitive to changes in the process conditions, such as temperature and pH. The thermal treatment process stabilizes the marl and travertine towards materials with a more homogeneous surface in terms of energy and structure. The fitted models of the adsorption isotherms and kinetic models allowed for an indication of a possible phosphorus-binding mechanism, as well as the maximum amount of this element that can be retained on the materials’ surface under given conditions—raw marl (43.89 mg P/g), raw travertine (140.48 mg P/g), heated marl (80.44 mg P/g), heated travertine (282.34 mg P/g), and Polonite® (54.33 mg P/g).
Polarization Doping in a GaN-InN System—Ab Initio Simulation
Authors: Ahmad Ashfaq , Strak Pawel , Kempisty Pawel , Sakowski Konrad , Piechota Jacek , Kangawa Yoshihiro , Grzegory Izabella , Leszczynski Michal , Zytkiewicz Zbigniew R. , Muziol Grzegorz , Monroy Eva , Kaminska Agata , Krukowski Stanislaw
Published: February 2023

Polarization doping in a GaN-InN system with a graded composition layer was studied using ab initio simulations. The electric charge volume density in the graded concentration part was determined by spatial potential dependence. The emerging graded polarization charge was determined to show that it could be obtained from a polarization difference and the concentration slope. It was shown that the GaN-InN polarization difference is changed by piezoelectric effects. The polarization difference is in agreement with the earlier obtained data despite the relatively narrow bandgap for the simulated system. The hole generation may be applied in the design of blue and green laser and light-emitting diodes.
Physicochemical Modeling of Electrochemical Impedance in Solid-State Supercapacitors
Authors: Peyrow Hedayati Davood , Singh Gita , Kucher Michael , Keene Tony D. , Böhm Robert
Published: February 2023

Solid-state supercapacitors (SSCs) consist of porous carbon electrodes and gel-polymer electrolytes and are used in novel energy storage applications. The current study aims to simulate the impedance of SSCs using a clearly defined equivalent circuit (EC) model with the ultimate goal of improving their performance. To this end, a conventional mathematical and a physicochemical model were adapted. The impedance was measured by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). An EC consisting of electrical elements was introduced for each modeling approach. The mathematical model was purely based on a best-fit method and utilized an EC with intuitive elements. In contrast, the physicochemical model was motivated by advanced theories and allowed meaningful associations with properties at the electrode, the electrolyte, and their interface. The physicochemical model showed a higher approximation ability (relative error of 3.7%) due to the interface impedance integration in a more complex circuit design. However, this model required more modeling and optimization effort. Moreover, the fitted parameters differed from the analytically calculated ones due to uncertainties in the SSC’s microscale configuration, which need further investigations. Nevertheless, the results show that the proposed physicochemical model is promising in simulating EIS data of SSCs with the additional advantage of utilizing well-reasoned property-based EC elements.
Experimental Study on Shear Behavior of Rock Composite Material under Normal Unloading Conditions
Authors: Liu Bo , Chen Yifan , Lin Hang , Cao Rihong , Zhang Shengwen
Published: February 2023

As a composite material, the stability of rock mass is usually controlled by a joint. During the process of excavation, the normal stress of the joint decreases continuously, and then the shear strength of the joint decreases, which may eventually lead to the instability and failure of rock mass. Previous studies have mainly focused on the shear behavior of joints under constant normal stress, but have rarely considered the unloading of normal stress. In this paper, a direct shear test of joints with different roughness was carried out, in which the shear stress remained unchanged while the normal stress decreased. The strength characteristics of joints were explored, and the deformation and acoustic emission-counting characteristics of joints were analyzed by digital image correlation (DIC) techniques and acoustic emission (AE). A new method for predicting the instability of joints under normal unloading was proposed based on the evolution law of normal deformation energy (Un), tangential deformation energy (Us) and total deformation energy (U0). The results show the following: (1) The unloading amount of normal stress was enlarged for greater initial normal stress and roughness, while it decreased with an increase in initial shear stress. (2) AE events reached their maximum when the normal stress was equal to the failure normal stress, and the b-value fluctuated more frequently in stable development periods under normal unloading conditions. (3) U0 would change with the loading and unloading of stress, and this may be used to predict the unloading instability of rock mass using the abrupt change of U0.
Laboratory Evaluation of Asphalt Binders Containing Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) and Processed Oil
Authors: Hemmati Navid , Vigneswaran Shyaamkrishnan , Kim Hyun Hwan , Lee Moon-Sup , Lee Soon-Jae
Published: February 2023

The study presents an experimental evaluation to improve the resistivity of binders with “Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene” (SBS) and “Processed oil” by studying the physical properties, rheology, and cracking. For this experiment, PG 64-22 was mixed with SBS at different percentages of 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight of the original binder with two processed oil contents of 6% and 12% by weight of the binder. Laboratory tests have been conducted at various high, medium, and low temperature ranges to evaluate their properties. The processed oil polymer modified asphalt (PMA) binder is artificially aged in both the short and long-term using a Rolling Thin Film Oven (RTFO) and a Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV). The Superpave testing method was performed on modified binders using a Rotational Viscometer (RV), Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR), and Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR). The results of this study illustrate (1) The addition of SBS leads to higher viscosity, but the co-modification of asphalt binder with the processed oil shows a significant modulation of the viscosity value. (2) In addition, processed oil reduced the resistance to rutting, but the addition of SBS significantly improved the rutting resistance of the asphalt binder. (3) The addition of SBS and processed oil improved the value of G sin δ, notably. (4) According to BBR, it has been shown that the addition of SBS in addition to the processed oil improves the stiffness values of modified asphalt binders.
Influence of Cementation on the Aesthetical Appearance of Full-Ceramic Restorations
Authors: Meister Jörg , Kaschuba Natalia , Romer Michael , Bourauel Christoph
Published: February 2023

The use of dental ceramics as restorative materials requires corresponding luting materials (cements) that, in turn, influence the visual appearance of the restoration. Due to the high light transmission through the ceramics, the cements can affect the color perception of the dental restoration. This study aims to investigate the optical effects of various cements on the visual appearance of full-ceramic restorations. Three fixing polymer resins (Bifix SE (VOCO GmbH, Cuxhafen, Germany), BreezeTM (Pentron Clinical, West Collins Orange, CA, USA), and PanaviaTM F. 2.0 (Kuraray, Noritake, Osaka, Japan)), with layer thicknesses of 50, 100, 200, and 250 µm, were applied onto a ceramic base model (0.4 mm thick), and irradiated with laser light of wavelengths 532, 632.8, and 1064 nm. Light intensities and scattering effects of light of various wavelengths were angle-dependent, analyzed using a goniophotometer with perpendicular light incidence on the sample specimen (base model plus luting material). In addition, the transmitted power of the light through the sample specimen was determined as a function of the layer thickness. With increasing layer thickness, power losses of respectively 30% for Bifix SE and BreezeTM in the visible spectral range were comparable, whereas PanaviaTM F. 2.0 showed a power loss of ca. 44% here. For the near-infrared range, the power losses for all cements were 25%. This could be confirmed by the interpretation of the line widths. Moreover, the line widths for thin cement layer thicknesses (50 and 100 µm) in the visible spectral range displayed only a redistribution of light by scattering, which does not affect color perception at all. In addition, at 200 and 250 µm, absorption occurred which causes a change in color perception. Within the scope of this study, it could be shown that for thin-layer thicknesses of the cement applied here, there is no adverse optical effect on the aesthetic visual appearance of the restoration.
Influence of Anodizing Conditions on Biotribological and Micromechanical Properties of Ti–13Zr–13Nb Alloy
Authors: Stróż Agnieszka , Maszybrocka Joanna , Goryczka Tomasz , Dudek Karolina , Osak Patrycja , Łosiewicz Bożena
Published: February 2023

The biomedical Ti–13Zr–13Nb bi-phase (α + β) alloy for long-term applications in implantology has recently been developed. The porous oxide nanotubes’ (ONTs) layers of various geometries and lengths on the Ti–13Zr–13Nb alloy surface can be produced by anodizing to improve osseointegration. This work was aimed at how anodizing conditions determinatine the micromechanical and biotribological properties of the Ti–13Zr–13Nb alloy. First-generation (1G), second-generation (2G), and third-generation (3G) ONT layers were produced on the Ti–13Zr–13Nb alloy surface by anodizing. The microstructure was characterized using SEM. Micromechanical properties were investigated by the Vickers microhardness test under variable loads. Biotribological properties were examined in Ringer’s solution in a reciprocating motion in the ball-on-flat system. The 2D roughness profiles method was used to assess the wear tracks of the tested materials. Wear scars’ analysis of the ZrO2 ball was performed using optical microscopy. It was found that the composition of the electrolyte with the presence of fluoride ions was an essential factor influencing the micromechanical and biotribological properties of the obtained ONT layers. The three-body abrasion wear mechanism was proposed to explain the biotribological wear in Ringer’s solution for the Ti–13Zr–13Nb alloy before and after anodizing.
The Influence of the Matrix Selection and the Unification Process on the Key Parameters of the Conductive Graphene Layers on a Flexible Substrate
Authors: Lepak-Kuc Sandra , Nowicki Łukasz , Janczak Daniel , Jakubowska Małgorzata
Published: February 2023

Screen-printed graphene layers on flexible substrates are one of the most advanced printed electronics developments of recent years. Obtaining thin, flexible, highly conductive components, whose applications are increasingly directed towards biomedical engineering and even medicine, requires an in-depth understanding of the correct choice of materials and procedures. Our work was aimed at investigating the influence of homogenisation in the triple rolling process over pastes dedicated to the screen printing technology, on their rheological parameters and the properties of the prints. The effect of selecting a suitable polymer matrix and different packing of graphene flakes was evaluated. Several studies were carried out, which can provide an excellent knowledge base in the context of graphene screen-printing pastes. Paste rheology, printability, path thickness, sheet resistance and adhesion to the substrate were investigated. Selected layers were also subjected to SEM imaging.
The Morphology, Mechanical and Dynamic Properties, Fire Hazard and Toxicity of Chloroprene and Butadiene Rubber Composites Cross-Linked with Zinc
Authors: Smejda-Krzewicka Aleksandra , Rybiński Przemysław , Bradło Dariusz , Żukowski Witold
Published: February 2023

This paper presents the influence of zinc on the cross-linking process, mechanical and dynamic properties, morphologies and balance of thermal degradation of blends containing chloroprene rubber (CR) and butadiene rubber (BR). The novel aspect of this research is a comprehensive approach presenting a new curing agent for the CR/BR blends to increase their cross-linking density and final properties, including non-flammability and low fire hazard. This is due to the need to find an alternative to zinc oxide, which is the standard curing agent for chloroprene rubber. The regulations of the European Union enforce a significant limitation on the use of this compound in elastomer technology, due to its harmful effect on aquatic organisms. In this paper, the CR/BR composites were cured with zinc and filled with natural silica fillers (sillitin or chalcedonite) or synthetic silica filler (aerosil). The investigation focused on the morphology characterization of the obtained compounds, their cross-linking degree, swelling, mechanical and dynamic properties, fire hazard and toxicity. The structure of cured CR/BR blends was characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The fire resistance studies were performed using cone calorimetry or oxygen index methods, whereas toxicity tests were performed with the use of the FB-FTIR (fluidized bed reactor coupled with FTIR analyzer) method. The results showed that obtained CR/BR products were characterized by satisfactory final properties. The properties determined by the oxygen index and cone calorimetry methods, including the behaviors of the tested CR/BR vulcanizates in fire conditions, showed that the produced compounds were characterized by a low fire hazard and can be classified as non-combustible rubber products. However, the toxicity of the decomposition products, determined at 450, 550 and 750 °C, was very high.
Therapeutic Manuka Honey as an Adjunct to Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy: A 12-Month Follow-Up, Split-Mouth Pilot Study
Authors: Opšivač David , Musić Larisa , Badovinac Ana , Šekelja Anđelina , Božić Darko
Published: February 2023

Periodontitis is recognized as one of the most common diseases worldwide. Non-surgical periodontal treatment (NSPT) is the initial approach in periodontal treatment. Recently, interest has shifted to various adjunctive treatments to which the bacteria cannot develop resistance, including Manuka honey. This study was designed as a split-mouth clinical trial and included 15 participants with stage III periodontitis. The participants were subjected to non-surgical full-mouth therapy, followed by applying Manuka honey to two quadrants. The benefit of adjunctive use of Manuka honey was assessed at the recall appointment after 3, 6, and 12 months, when periodontal probing depth (PPD), split-mouth plaque score (FMPS), split-mouth bleeding score (FMBS), and clinical attachment level (CAL) were reassessed. Statistically significant differences between NSPT + Manuka and NSPT alone were found in PPD improvement for all follow-up time points and CAL improvement after 3 and 6 months. These statistically significant improvements due to the adjunctive use of Manuka amounted to (mm): 0.21, 0.30, and 0.19 for delta CAL and 0.18, 0.28, and 0.16 for delta PPD values measured after 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. No significant improvements in FMPS and FMBS were observed. This pilot study demonstrated the promising potential of Manuka honey for use as an adjunct therapy to nonsurgical treatment.
Improving the Thermal Stability of the Fine-Grained Structure in the Cu-15Ni-8Sn Alloy during Solution Treatment by the Additions of Si and Ti
Authors: Zhao Chao , Li Daoxi , Liu Xiaotao , Sun Minghan , Wang Zhi , Luo Zongqiang , Zhang Weiwen
Published: February 2023

Grain refinement has been found to be an effective method for simultaneously enhancing strength and toughness. To avoid the sharp coarsening of grains in Cu-Ni-Sn alloys during solution treatment and thereby overcoming the tradeoff between strength and ductility, this work attempted to modify the composition and improve the thermal stability of the fine-grained structure in Cu-Ni-Sn alloys. The grain growth behavior during a solution treatment of the Cu-15Ni-8Sn alloys with/without Si and Ti additions was systematically investigated. The result reveals that compared to the grain size of 146 μm in the based alloy (without trace additions) after solution processing at 1073 K for 2 h, the fine-grained structure with a size below 20 μm is maintained owing to the benefit from Si and Ti addition. It was observed that the addition of Si and Ti offer the inhibition effect on the dissolution of the γ phase and Ni16Si7Ti6 particles after solution treatment. The grain boundary movement is severely hindered by these two aspects: the pinning effect from these particles, and the drag effect induced by additional solute atoms. Based on the analysis of grain growth kinetics, the activation energy of grain growth is increased from 156 kJ/mol to 353 kJ/mol with the addition of Si and Ti.
Hybrid Nano Flake-like Vanadium Diselenide Combined on Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube as a Binder-Free Electrode for Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Jin Youngho , Lee Min Eui , Kim Geongil , Seong Honggyu , Nam Wonbin , Kim Sung Kuk , Moon Joon Ha , Choi Jaewon
Published: February 2023

As the market for electric vehicles and portable electronic devices continues to grow rapidly, sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have emerged as energy storage systems to replace lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, sodium-ion is heavier and larger than lithium-ion, resulting in volume expansion and slower ion transfer. It is necessary to find suitable anode materials with high capacity and stability. In addition, wearable electronics are starting to be commercialized, requiring a binder-free electrode used in flexible batteries. In this work, we synthesized nano flake-like VSe2 using organic precursor and combined it with MWCNT as carbonaceous material. VSe2@MWCNT was mixed homogenously using sonication and fabricated film electrodes without a binder and substrate via vacuum filter. The hybrid electrode exhibited high-rate capability and stable cycling performance with a discharge capacity of 469.1 mAhg−1 after 200 cycles. Furthermore, VSe2@MWCNT exhibited coulombic efficiency of ~99.7%, indicating good cycle stability. Additionally, VSe2@MWCNT showed a predominant 85.5% of capacitive contribution at a scan rate of 1 mVs−1 in sodiation/desodiation process. These results showed that VSe2@MWCNT is a suitable anode material for flexible SIBs.
Machine Learning and Prediction of Infectious Diseases: A Systematic Review
Authors: Santangelo Omar Enzo , Gentile Vito , Pizzo Stefano , Giordano Domiziana , Cedrone Fabrizio
Published: February 2023

The aim of the study is to show whether it is possible to predict infectious disease outbreaks early, by using machine learning. This study was carried out following the guidelines of the Cochrane Collaboration and the meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology and the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The suitable bibliography on PubMed/Medline and Scopus was searched by combining text, words, and titles on medical topics. At the end of the search, this systematic review contained 75 records. The studies analyzed in this systematic review demonstrate that it is possible to predict the incidence and trends of some infectious diseases; by combining several techniques and types of machine learning, it is possible to obtain accurate and plausible results.
Effects of Different Nitrogen Concentrations on Co-Production of Fucoxanthin and Fatty Acids in Conticribra weissflogii
Authors: Rui Xiangyu , Amenorfenyo David Kwame , Peng Ke , Li Haoming , Wang Linfei , Huang Xianghu , Li Changling , Li Feng
Published: February 2023

Fucoxanthin and fatty acids are active substances that are beneficial to the growth and immunity of humans and aquatic animals. However, relatively few species have been exploited for fucoxanthin and fatty acids in the industry. At the same time, due to its low extract content, poor stability, high production cost, and serious seasonal and regional limitations, the industry cannot normally meet the greater demand of the international market. Therefore, this experiment seeks to improve the fucoxanthin and fatty acid content of C. weissflogii by adjusting the nitrogen concentration in the culture medium. It was found that when the nitrogen concentration was 150 mg L−1, the cell number was 1.5 × 106 cell mL−1, and the average biomass was 0.75 g L−1. The mean value of carotenoid concentration was 2.179 mg L−1. The average concentration of fucoxanthin was 1.547 mg g−1. When the nitrogen concentration was 75 mg L−1, the fatty acid content reached its highest. By adjusting the concentration of nitrogen, the contents of fucoxanthin and fatty acids were increased. The results provided a theoretical basis for commercial extraction of fucoxanthin and fatty acids and further promoted the industrialization of fucoxanthin and fatty acids.
Efficacy of Phrenic Nerve Block and Suprascapular Nerve Block in Amelioration of Ipsilateral Shoulder Pain after Thoracic Surgery: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pipanmekaporn Tanyong , Leurcharusmee Prangmalee , Punjasawadwong Yodying , Khorana Jiraporn , Samerchua Artid , Sukhupragarn Wariya , Sukuam Isaraporn , Bunchungmongkol Nutchanart , Saokaew Surasak
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives: Ipsilateral shoulder pain (ISP) is a common complication after thoracic surgery. Severe ISP can cause ineffective breathing and impair shoulder mobilization. Both phrenic nerve block (PNB) and suprascapular nerve block (SNB) are anesthetic interventions; however, it remains unclear which intervention is most effective. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of PNB and SNB for the prevention and reduction of the severity of ISP following thoracotomy or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. Materials and methods: Studies published in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Ovid Medline, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Library without language restriction were reviewed from the publication’s inception through 30 September 2022. Randomized controlled trials evaluating the comparative efficacy of PNB and SNB on ISP management were selected. A network meta-analysis was applied to estimate pooled risk ratios (RRs) and weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Of 381 records screened, eight studies were eligible. PNB was shown to significantly lower the risk of ISP during the 24 h period after surgery compared to placebo (RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.58) and SNB (RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.64). PNB significantly reduced the severity of ISP during the 24 h period after thoracic surgery (WMD −1.75, 95% CI −3.47 to −0.04), but these effects of PNB were not statistically significantly different from SNB. When compared to placebo, SNB did not significantly reduce the incidence or severity of ISP during the 24 h period after surgery. Conclusion: This study suggests that PNB ranks first for prevention and reduction of ISP severity during the first 24 h after thoracic surgery. SNB was considered the worst intervention for ISP management. No evidence indicated that PNB was associated with a significant impairment of postoperative ventilatory status.
Carbapenem Resistance in Gram-Negative Bacteria: A Hospital-Based Study in Egypt
Authors: Elrahem Amira Abd , El-Mashad Noha , Elshaer Mohammed , Ramadan Hazem , Damiani Giovanni , Bahgat Monir , Mercuri Santo Raffaele , Elemshaty Wafaa
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives: The global spread of carbapenem resistance and the resulting increase in mortality forced the World Health Organization (WHO) to claim carbapenem-resistant enterobacteriaceae (CRE) as global priority pathogens. Our study aimed to determine the prevalence of carbapenemase-encoding genes and major plasmid incompatibility groups among Gram-negative hospital-based isolates in Egypt. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out at Mansoura University Hospitals over 12 months, from January to December 2019. All the isolates were tested for carbapenem resistance. The selected isolates were screened by conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of carbapenemase genes, namely blaKPC, blaIMP, blaVIM, and blaNDM-1. PCR-based plasmid replicon typing was performed using the commercial PBRT kit. Results: Out of 150 isolates, only 30 (20.0%) demonstrated carbapenem resistance. Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most resistant of all isolated bacteria, and blaNDM was the predominant carbapenemases gene, while the most prevalent plasmid replicons were the F replicon combination (FIA, FIB, and FII) and A/C. Plasmids were detected only in Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Remarkably, we found a statistically significant association between carbapenemase genes and plasmid replicons, including blaNDM, IncA/C, and IncX. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated an alarming rise of plasmid-mediated carbapenem-resistant bacteria in our locality. The coexistence of resistance genes and plasmids highlights the importance of a targeted antibiotic surveillance program and the development of alternative therapeutic options at the local and international levels. Based on our results, we suggest a large-scale study with more Enterobacteriaceae isolates, testing other carbapenemase-encoding genes, and comparing the replicon typing method with other plasmid detection methods. We also recommend a national action plan to control the irrational use of antibiotics in Egypt.
The Role of Lifestyle Interventions in the Prevention and Treatment of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zakaria Hala , Abusanana Salah , Mussa Bashair M. , Al Dhaheri Ayesha S. , Stojanovska Lily , Mohamad Maysm N. , Saleh Sheima T. , Ali Habiba I. , Cheikh Ismail Leila
Published: February 2023

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common pregnancy-related endocrinopathies, affecting up to 25% of pregnancies globally. GDM increases the risk of perinatal and delivery complications, and the chance of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus and its complications, including cardiovascular diseases. This elevated risk is then passed on to the next generation, creating a cycle of metabolic dysfunction across generations. For many years, GDM preventive measures have had inconsistent results, but recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses have identified promising new preventative routes. This review aims to summarize the evidence investigating the efficacy of lifestyle treatments for the prevention of GDM and to summarize the effects of two lifestyle interventions, including physical activity and dietary interventions. Based on the present research, future studies should be conducted to investigate whether initiating lifestyle interventions during the preconception period is more beneficial in preventing GDM. In addition, research targeting pregnancy should be designed with a personalized approach. Therefore, studies should customize intervention approaches depending on the presence of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors at the individual level.
Screening and Scale-up of Nanofiltration Membranes for Concentration of Lactose and Real Whey Permeate
Authors: Hofmann Katrin , Hamel Christof
Published: February 2023

In dairy industry huge quantities of whey accumulate as a by-product. In particular the containing lactose was not produced profitably in the past. Thus, the trend goes towards modification and sustainable use of lactose for which a concentration step is required. Nanofiltration (NF) has shown to be a good choice since partial demineralization can be realized in parallel. Therefore, in this study, 10 commercial polymer NF membranes were studied in detail and systematically for their suitability to concentrate lactose, with the proviso of high flux and high to complete rejection. Preliminary trials were conducted with flat-sheet membranes and a lactose model solution and the influence of transmembrane pressure (TMP), temperature and lactose concentration was studied. Finally, results were evaluated by using spiral wound modules and real industrial whey permeate. The results offered that a membrane screening is essentially since no correlation between molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) and permeate flow could be found. The conclusions found for the lactose model solution were in good agreement with the whey permeate, but as the ions contribute to the osmotic pressure of the feed the deviations increase in the course of concentration since ions are also partly retained.
Ag-CuO-Decorated Ceramic Membranes for Effective Treatment of Oily Wastewater
Authors: Avornyo Amos , Thanigaivelan Arumugham , Krishnamoorthy Rambabu , Hassan Shadi W. , Banat Fawzi
Published: February 2023

Although ultrafiltration is a reliable method for separating oily wastewater, the process is limited by problems of low flux and membrane fouling. In this study, for the first time, commercial TiO2/ZrO2 ceramic membranes modified with silver-functionalized copper oxide (Ag-CuO) nanoparticles are reported for the improved separation performance of emulsified oil. Ag-CuO nanoparticles were synthesized via hydrothermal technique and dip-coated onto commercial membranes at varying concentrations (0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 wt.%). The prepared membranes were further examined to understand the improvements in oil-water separation due to Ag-CuO coating. All modified ceramic membranes exhibited higher hydrophilicity and decreased porosity. Additionally, the permeate flux, oil rejection, and antifouling performance of the Ag-CuO-coated membranes were more significantly improved than the pristine commercial membrane. The 0.5 wt.% modified membrane exhibited a 30% higher water flux (303.63 L m−2 h−1) and better oil rejection efficiency (97.8%) for oil/water separation among the modified membranes. After several separation cycles, the 0.5 wt.% Ag-CuO-modified membranes showed a constant permeate flux with an excellent oil rejection of >95% compared with the unmodified membrane. Moreover, the corrosion resistance of the coated membrane against acid, alkali, actual seawater, and oily wastewater was remarkable. Thus, the Ag-CuO-modified ceramic membranes are promising for oil separation applications due to their high flux, enhanced oil rejection, better antifouling characteristics, and good stability.
Evaluation of the Elastic Modulus and Plateau Stress of a 2D Porous Aluminum Alloy Based on a Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Sun Jianhang , Xu Yepeng , Wang Lei
Published: February 2023

Porous metals are a new ultra-light material with high specific stiffness, specific strength, and good energy absorption properties. The elastic modulus and plateau stress of porous metals are essential parameters. There have been many studies on the effects of the matrix material, porosity, and pore size on the elastic modulus and plateau stress of porous metals, but few studies can be found on the impact of pore arrangement. The pore arrangement of porous metals cannot be quantitatively described, and the design space of a porous metal structure under the same porosity is vast. With the powerful learning and prediction ability of neural networks, the influence of pore arrangement can be better understood. In this paper, a convolutional neural network was used to explore the impact of pore arrangement on both the elastic modulus and plateau stress of a porous aluminum alloy. Firstly, a finite element method was used to simulate the compression of a porous aluminum alloy to obtain a training sample library. Secondly, a convolutional neural network was built to positively predict the elastic modulus and plateau stress of the porous aluminum alloy. Partial samples were used to select the best training model from five convolutional neural network candidates. Dropout, Batch Normalization, and L2 regularization methods were used to alleviate the over-fitting phenomenon in training. All data in the database were then trained and predicted, and the predicted goodness of fit of the elastic modulus and plateau stress were 0.8785 and 0.5922, respectively. A search method based on the convolutional neural network was then used to iteratively search the database. Under the condition of using a small amount of data, the pore structure with the best elastic modulus and plateau stress in the database could be determined, and the inverse design of a structure with high elastic modulus and plateau stress could be realized.
Investigation of Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of Ultra-High Strength Al-Zn-Mg-Cu Alloy Prepared by Rapid Solidification and Hot Extrusion
Authors: Shen Gaoliang , Xiang Zhilei , Ma Xiaozhao , Huang Jingcun , Zhao Yueqing , Li Jihao , Wang Zhitian , Shi Guodong , Chen Ziyong
Published: February 2023

Al-Zn-Mg-Cu aluminum alloys have the advantages of high specific strength, easy processing, and high toughness, showing great potential application in the aerospace field. However, ultra-high strength aluminum alloys usually contain coarse microstructures, micro-segregation, and casting defects that seriously deteriorate mechanical properties. Here, we report a high-strength aluminum alloy (Al-10.5Zn-2.0Mg-1.2Cu-0.12Zr-0.1Er) prepared by rapid solidification and hot extrusion to explore the microstructure modification of the alloy based on this strategy. The results show that: rapid-solidification technology can significantly refine alloy grains, alloy ribbons were composed of α (Al) equiaxed fine grains, and the average grain size was less than 6 μm. After extrusion, the alloy had partially recrystallized, existing coarse second-phase (T-phase) and needle-shaped precipitates were MgZn2 (η-phase), and the tensile strength and elongation of the extruded bar were 466.4 MPa and 12.9%, respectively. After T6 heat treatment, the tensile strength of the alloy reached 635.8 MPa, while elongation decreased to 10.5%. According to microstructure analysis and considering the contributions of grain boundary, dislocation, and precipitation-strengthening to the improvement of the mechanical properties, it was found that precipitation-strengthening is the main strengthening mechanism. Our research shows that rapid-solidification and hot-extrusion technology have great potential for improving the microstructures and mechanical properties of aluminum alloys.
Bilirubin Nanoparticle Treatment in Obese Mice Inhibits Hepatic Ceramide Production and Remodels Liver Fat Content
Authors: Kipp Zachary A. , Martinez Genesee J. , Bates Evelyn A. , Maharramov Agil B. , Flight Robert M. , Moseley Hunter N.B. , Morris Andrew J. , Stec David E. , Hinds Terry D.
Published: February 2023

Studies have indicated that increasing plasma bilirubin levels might be useful for preventing and treating hepatic lipid accumulation that occurs with metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. We have previously demonstrated that mice with hyperbilirubinemia had significantly less lipid accumulation in a diet-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) model. However, bilirubin’s effects on individual lipid species are currently unknown. Therefore, we used liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (LC-MS) to determine the hepatic lipid composition of obese mice with NAFLD treated with bilirubin nanoparticles or vehicle control. We placed the mice on a high-fat diet (HFD) for 24 weeks and then treated them with bilirubin nanoparticles or vehicle control for 4 weeks while maintaining the HFD. Bilirubin nanoparticles suppressed hepatic fat content overall. After analyzing the lipidomics data, we determined that bilirubin inhibited the accumulation of ceramides in the liver. The bilirubin nanoparticles significantly lowered the hepatic expression of two essential enzymes that regulate ceramide production, Sgpl1 and Degs1. Our results demonstrate that the bilirubin nanoparticles improve hepatic fat content by reducing ceramide production, remodeling the liver fat content, and improving overall metabolic health.
Soft Robotics: A Systematic Review and Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Rusu Dan-Mihai , Mândru Silviu-Dan , Biriș Cristina-Maria , Petrașcu Olivia-Laura , Morariu Fineas , Ianosi-Andreeva-Dimitrova Alexandru
Published: February 2023

In recent years, soft robotics has developed considerably, especially since the year 2018 when it became a hot field among current research topics. The attention that this field receives from researchers and the public is marked by the substantial increase in both the quantity and the quality of scientific publications. In this review, in order to create a relevant and comprehensive picture of this field both quantitatively and qualitatively, the paper approaches two directions. The first direction is centered on a bibliometric analysis focused on the period 2008–2022 with the exact expression that best characterizes this field, which is “Soft Robotics”, and the data were taken from a series of multidisciplinary databases and a specialized journal. The second direction focuses on the analysis of bibliographic references that were rigorously selected following a clear methodology based on a series of inclusion and exclusion criteria. After the selection of bibliographic sources, 111 papers were part of the final analysis, which have been analyzed in detail considering three different perspectives: one related to the design principle (biologically inspired soft robotics), one related to functionality (closed/open-loop control), and one from a biomedical applications perspective.
Study of the Embryonic Toxicity of TiO2 and ZrO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Lyashenko Elena Nikolaevna , Uzbekova Leyla Djavadovna , Polovinkina Valeri Vladimirovna , Dorofeeva Anastasia Konstantinovna , Ibragimov Said-Umar Sithalil-ugli , Tatamov Arslan Ayavovich , Avkaeva Albina Gamdullaevna , Mikhailova Anastasia Alekseevna , Tuaeva Inga Shamilevna , Esiev Ruslan Kazbekovich , Mezentsev Sergei Dmitrievich , Gubanova Marina Alexandrovna , Bondarenko Natalya Grigorevna , Maslova Alina Yurievna
Published: February 2023

Currently, the widespread use of TiO2 and ZrO2 nanoparticles (NPs) in various industries poses a risk in terms of their potential toxicity. A number of experimental studies provide evidence of the toxic effect of TiO2 and ZrO2 NPs on biological objects. In order to supplement the level of knowledge and assess the risks of toxicity and danger of TiO2 and ZrO2 NPs, we decided to conduct a comprehensive experiment to study the embryonic toxicity of TiO2 and ZrO2 NPs in pregnant rats. For the experiment, mongrel white rats during pregnancy received aqueous dispersions of powders of TiO2 and ZrO2 NPs at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day. To characterize the effect of TiO2 and ZrO2 NPs on females and the postnatal ontogenesis of offspring, a complex of physiological and biochemical research methods was used. The results of the experiment showed that TiO2 NPs as ZrO2 NPs (100 mg/kg per os) cause few shifts of similar orientation in the maternal body. Neither TiO2 NPs nor ZrO2 NPs have an embryonic and teratogenic effect on the offspring in utero, but both modify its postnatal development.
The Coupled Reactance-Less Memristor Based Relaxation Oscillators for Binary Oscillator Networks
Authors: Rakitin Vladimir , Rusakov Sergey , Ulyanov Sergey
Published: February 2023

This paper discusses the application of coupled reactance-less memristor-based oscillators (MBO) with binary output signals in oscillatory networks. A class of binary-coupled memristor oscillators provides simple integration with standard CMOS logic elements. Combining MBOs with binary logic elements ensures the operation of complex information processing algorithms. The analysis of the simplest networks based on MBOs is performed. The typical reactance-less MBO with current and potential inputs is considered. The output responses for input control signals are analyzed. It is shown that the current input signal impacts primarily the rate of memristor resistance variation, while the potential input signal changes the thresholds. The exploit of the potential input for the synchronization of coupled MBOs and current control input in order to provide the necessary encoding of information is suggested. The example of the application of coupled MBOs in oscillatory networks is given, and results of simulation are presented.
Impedance-Frequency Response of Closed Electrolytic Cells
Authors: López-García José Juan , Horno José , Grosse Constantino
Published: February 2023

The electric AC response of electrolytic cells with DC bias is analyzed solving numerically the Poisson–Nernst–Planck equations and avoiding the commonly used infinite solution approximation. The results show the presence of an additional low-frequency dispersion process associated with the finite spacing of the electrodes. Moreover, we find that the condition of fixed ionic content inside the electrolytic cell has a strong bearing on both the steady-state and the frequency response. For example: the characteristic frequency of the high-frequency dispersion decreases when the DC potential increases and/or the electrode spacing decreases in the closed cell case, while it remains essentially insensitive on these changes for open cells. Finally, approximate analytic expressions for the dependences of the main parameters of both dispersion processes are also presented.