bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Inorganic Additives on the Surface Characteristics, Hardness, Friction and Wear Behavior of Polyethylene Matrix Composites
Authors: Wierzbicka Natalia , Talar Rafał , Grochalski Karol , Piasecki Adam , Graboń Wiesław , Węgorzewski Miłosz , Reiter Adam
Published: July 2023

The aim of this research was to analyze the effect of inorganic additives on the tribological properties of the high-density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix composite surface. Titanium (Ti) and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) were added in different mass fractions. The samples were produced by pressing a pre-prepared mixture of granules. The composite samples with the following mass fractions of additives were fabricated: 5% hBN, 10% hBN, 28% Ti–2% hBN, 23% Ti–7% hBN, and 20% Ti–10% hBN. An even distribution of individual additives’ concentrations was confirmed. Observations of morphology, surface topography, hardness, and tribological measurements were conducted using reciprocating motion tests with the “pin-on-flat” and rotational tests with the “pin-on-disc” configuration. Subsequently, microscopic observations and measurements of the wear track profile were carried out. Additionally, geometry parameters of the contacting elastic body were calculated for various counter-samples. It was found that the Shore D hardness of samples containing Ti and hBN increased with the Ti content, while the coefficient of friction (COF) value decreased. The addition of hBN alone did not significantly affect the hardness, regardless of the ratio, while the COF increased with the increasing hBN content. The COF value doubled with the addition of 10% hBN (COF = 0.22), whereas the addition of 90% Ti–10% hBN resulted in a decrease in the COF value, to COF = 0.83. The highest hardness value was obtained for the sample containing 28% Ti–2% hBN (66.5), while the lowest was for the sample containing 10% hBN (63.2). The wear track analysis, including its height and width caused by deformation, was detected using a focal differentiation microscope and scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, EDS maps were generated to determine the wear characteristics of the composite.
Influence of Cr Content on the High-Temperature Oxidation Behavior and Mechanism of Low-Alloy Steels
Authors: Kwon Gi-Hoon , Park Hyunjun , Choi Byoungho , Lee Young-Kook , Moon Kyoungil
Published: July 2023

The high-temperature oxidation behavior of low-carbon steel (AISI 1015, AISI 8617, AISI 4115) was investigated over the temperature range from 600 to 1000 °C in humid air containing 25% water vapor. Mass gain of oxidation measurement was performed to study the oxidation kinetics. The microstructure, thickness, and composition of the oxide scale formed were investigated via optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA). The oxidation process was performed from 2 to 100 min. As the oxidation time increased, the trend of mass gain per unit area switched from a linear to a parabolic law, regardless of the steel grade used. As the chromium content increased, the duration of time during which the oxidation rate followed a linear relationship decreased. In the low-alloy steel with higher chromium content, the thickness of the mixed oxide layer containing Cr increased and the oxidation rate decreased at all oxidation temperatures.
Overview of Approaches to Increase the Electrochemical Activity of Conventional Perovskite Air Electrodes
Authors: Filonova Elena , Pikalova Elena
Published: July 2023

The progressive research trends in the development of low-cost, commercially competitive solid oxide fuel cells with reduced operating temperatures are closely linked to the search for new functional materials as well as technologies to improve the properties of established materials traditionally used in high-temperature devices. Significant efforts are being made to improve air electrodes, which significantly contribute to the degradation of cell performance due to low oxygen reduction reaction kinetics at reduced temperatures. The present review summarizes the basic information on the methods to improve the electrochemical performance of conventional air electrodes with perovskite structure, such as lanthanum strontium manganite (LSM) and lanthanum strontium cobaltite ferrite (LSCF), to make them suitable for application in second generation electrochemical cells operating at medium and low temperatures. In addition, the information presented in this review may serve as a background for further implementation of developed electrode modification technologies involving novel, recently investigated electrode materials.
Electron Transfer in Contact Electrification under Different Atmospheres Packaged inside TENG
Authors: Hou Yu , Dong Xuanli , Tang Wei , Li Ding
Published: July 2023

Contact electrification (CE), a common physical phenomenon, is worth discussing. However, there are few reports on the influence of atmosphere on CE, or on the performance of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG), based on CE by encapsulating gas inside. Here, we propose physical processes of electron transfer to interpret the impact of the gaseous atmosphere on CE. An atmosphere-filled triboelectric nanogenerator (AF-TENG) encapsulated five different gas-components of air based on the vertical contact separation mode was prepared. The sensitivity (1.02 V·N−1) and the power density (9.63 μW·m−2) of the oxygen-atmosphere-filled AF-TENG were 229.03% and 157.81% higher than these (0.31 V·N−1 and 3.84 μW·m−2) of the nitrogen-atmosphere-filled AF-TENG. As the oxygen atom possesses more atomic energy levels than other atoms, this could act as a “bridge” for more electrons to directly transfer between the two materials. The device package under different atmospheres could not only strengthen understanding of CE and improve the performance of TENG, but also be potentially applicable to prevent and control unnecessary damage caused by static electricity.
Bio-Based Pultruded CFRP Laminates: Bond to Concrete and Structural Performance of Full-Scale Strengthened Reinforced Concrete Beams
Authors: Machado Marina , Garrido Mário , Firmo João P. , Azevedo Adriana , Correia João R. , Bordado João C. , Dourado Filipe
Published: July 2023

This paper presents an experimental study about the use of innovative bio-based pultruded carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates for structural strengthening. The bio-based laminates were produced in the framework of an applied research project (BioLam) using a resin system with 50% (wt.%) bio-based content, obtained from renewable resources. In the first part of the study, their tensile and interlaminar shear properties were characterized and compared with those of conventional oil-based CFRP laminates. In the second part of the study, the bond behavior to concrete of both types of CFRP laminates applied according to the externally bonded reinforcement (EBR) technique was assessed by means of single-lap shear tests performed on CFRP-strengthened concrete blocks; the experimental results obtained from these tests were then used in a numerical procedure to calibrate local bond vs. slip laws for both types of laminates. The final part of this study comprised four-point bending tests on full-scale EBR-CFRP-strengthened reinforced concrete (RC) beams to assess the structural efficacy of the bio-based laminates; these were benchmarked with tests performed on similar RC beams strengthened with conventional CFRP laminates. The results obtained in this study show that the (i) material properties, (ii) the bond behavior to concrete, and (iii) the structural efficacy of the developed bio-based CFRP laminates are comparable to those of their conventional counterparts, confirming their potential to be used in the strengthening of RC structures.
Comparative Analysis of Vegetable and Mineral Oil-Based Antiadhesive/Hydrophobic Liquids and Their Impact on Wood Properties
Authors: Kachel Magdalena , Krawczuk Anna , Krajewska Marta , Parafiniuk Stanisław , Guz Tomasz , Rząd Klaudia , Matwijczuk Arkadiusz
Published: July 2023

The unavailability of biodegradable preservatives is one of the major setbacks in the construction industry. With this in mind, our study focused on the analysis and comparison of two hydrophobic liquids, one vegetable oil-based (VOA) and the other mineral oil-based (MOA), and subsequently applying the same on three types of wood. The comparison of the vegetable oil-based (VOA) and mineral oil-based (MOA) hydrophobic liquids revealed that VOA was characterized by an 83.4% susceptibility to aerobic biodegradation, while MOA was considerably more resistant (47.80%). Based on the conducted contact angle measurements, it was observed that the wettability of pine and oak wood decreased after the application of both VOA (for pine—twice; for oak—by 38%) and MOA (for pine—more than two times; for oak—by 49%), while in the case of aspen, the same was increased (after the application of VOA—by 20%; after the application of MOA—by 2%). The observed depth of penetration into the structure of the impregnated wood was lower for the VOA impregnant as compared to the MOA impregnant. This result persisted in all types of wood used in the experiment. Observations of the process of water absorption during soaking revealed that VOA was more beneficial in terms of lowering water absorption into the material, regardless of wood type. The overall results were better for VOA, which lowered the mass of soaked wood by between 19.73 and 66.90%.
Assessing the Long-Term Performance of Adhesive Joints in Space Structures during Interplanetary Exploration
Authors: Charpentier Gabin , Lafont Ugo , Teixeira de Freitas Sofia
Published: July 2023

Spacecraft experience minimal mechanical loads in space, but with the development of reusable spacecraft for interplanetary exploration and repeated landings, structures will be subjected to increased mechanical stress. The impact of the space environment on the aging of adhesive materials used in space structures over long-term applications is not well understood. This study investigates two commonly used adhesives in spacecraft assembly, namely Scotch-Weld™ EC-2216 and Scotch-Weld™ EC-9323-2, under two aging conditions: (1) high-energy electron irradiation using a Van de Graaf accelerator, and (2) thermal vacuum cycling. The research evaluates the evolution of intrinsic adhesive properties and adhesion to CFRP (carbon fiber-reinforced polymer) and aluminum adherents before and after exposure to these environmental conditions through tensile tests, peel tests, double-cantilever beam (DCB) tests, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA).
The Synergistic Lubrication Effects of h-BN and g-C3N4 Nanoparticles as Oil-Based Additives for Steel/Steel Contact
Authors: Zhong Wen , Dong Jiazhi , Chen Siqiang , Tong Zhe
Published: July 2023

The synergistic effect of different types of solid particles in liquid lubricants is of great interest. In this work, g-C3N4 nanosheets were initially prepared using a calcination method and then as-prepared, and h-BN were used as lubricating additives to the white oil. A comparison between the mixed additives and the single g-C3N4 or h-BN additives revealed that the base oil with the addition of g-C3N4 and h-BN showed the best lubricating properties. The results show a 12.3% reduction in friction coefficient, resulting in a 68.6% reduction in wear rate compared to the white oil when filled with 0.5 wt% g-C3N4 and h-BN (1:1 by weight). Moreover, the addition of g-C3N4 and h-BN improves the high-temperature lubrication properties of the white oil. However, the friction coefficient and wear rate increase with increasing oil temperature. The large contact area between g-C3N4 and its sliding counterpart and the strong adhesive force between h-BN and its sliding counterpart improve the film formation efficiency, leading to enhanced tribological properties under oil lubrication conditions.
Perovskite Membranes: Advancements and Challenges in Gas Separation, Production, and Capture
Authors: Alami Abdul Hai , Alashkar Adnan , Abdelkareem Mohammad Ali , Rezk Hegazy , Masdar Mohd Shahbudin , Olabi Abdul Ghani
Published: July 2023

Perovskite membranes have gained considerable attention in gas separation and production due to their unique properties such as high selectivity and permeability towards various gases. These membranes are composed of perovskite oxides, which have a crystalline structure that can be tailored to enhance gas separation performance. In oxygen enrichment, perovskite membranes are employed to separate oxygen from air, which is then utilized in a variety of applications such as combustion and medical devices. Moreover, perovskite membranes are investigated for carbon capture applications to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Further, perovskite membranes are employed in hydrogen production, where they aid in the separation of hydrogen from other gases such as methane and carbon dioxide. This process is essential in the production of clean hydrogen fuel for various applications such as fuel cells and transportation. This paper provides a review on the utilization and role of perovskite membranes in various gas applications, including oxygen enrichment, carbon capture, and hydrogen production.
A Miniaturized Archimedean Screw Pump for High-Viscosity Fluid Pumping in Microfluidics
Authors: Gucluer Sinan
Published: July 2023

Microfluidic devices have revolutionized the field of lab-on-a-chip by enabling precise manipulation of small fluid volumes for various biomedical applications. However, most existing microfluidic pumps struggle to handle high-viscosity fluids, limiting their applicability in certain areas that involve bioanalysis and on-chip sample processing. In this paper, the design and fabrication of a miniaturized Archimedean screw pump for pumping high-viscosity fluids within microfluidic channels are presented. The pump was 3D-printed and operated vertically, allowing for continuous and directional fluid pumping. The pump’s capabilities were demonstrated by successfully pumping polyethylene glycol (PEG) solutions that are over 100 times more viscous than water using a basic mini-DC motor. Efficient fluid manipulation at low voltages was achieved by the pump, making it suitable for point-of-care and field applications. The flow rates of water were characterized, and the effect of different screw pitch lengths on the flow rate was investigated. Additionally, the pump’s capacity for pumping high-viscosity fluids was demonstrated by testing it with PEG solutions of increasing viscosity. The microfluidic pump’s simple fabrication and easy operation position it as a promising candidate for lab-on-a-chip applications involving high-viscosity fluids.
Fluorescence Microscopy Study of the Intracellular Sulfur Globule Protein SgpD in the Purple Sulfur Bacterium Allochromatium vinosum
Authors: Kümpel Carolin , Grein Fabian , Dahl Christiane
Published: July 2023

When oxidizing reduced sulfur compounds, the phototrophic sulfur bacterium Allochromatium vinosum forms spectacular sulfur globules as obligatory intracellular–but extracytoplasmic–intermediates. The globule envelope consists of three extremely hydrophobic proteins: SgpA and SgpB, which are very similar and can functionally replace each other, and SgpC which is involved in the expansion of the sulfur globules. The presence of a fourth protein, SgpD, was suggested by comparative transcriptomics and proteomics of purified sulfur globules. Here, we investigated the in vivo function of SgpD by coupling its carboxy-terminus to mCherry. This fluorescent protein requires oxygen for chromophore maturation, but we were able to use it in anaerobically growing A. vinosum provided the cells were exposed to oxygen for one hour prior to imaging. While mCherry lacking a signal peptide resulted in low fluorescence evenly distributed throughout the cell, fusion with SgpD carrying its original Sec-dependent signal peptide targeted mCherry to the periplasm and co-localized it exactly with the highly light-refractive sulfur deposits seen in sulfide-fed A. vinosum cells. Insertional inactivation of the sgpD gene showed that the protein is not essential for the formation and degradation of sulfur globules.
Single-Exciton Photoluminescence in a GaN Monolayer inside an AlN Nanocolumn
Authors: Evropeitsev Eugenii , Nechaev Dmitrii , Jmerik Valentin , Zadiranov Yuriy , Kulagina Marina , Troshkov Sergey , Guseva Yulia , Berezina Daryia , Shubina Tatiana , Toropov Alexey
Published: July 2023

GaN/AlN heterostructures with thicknesses of one monolayer (ML) are currently considered to be the most promising material for creating UVC light-emitting devices. A unique functional property of these atomically thin quantum wells (QWs) is their ability to maintain stable excitons, resulting in a particularly high radiation yield at room temperature. However, the intrinsic properties of these excitons are substantially masked by the inhomogeneous broadening caused, in particular, by fluctuations in the QWs’ thicknesses. In this work, to reduce this effect, we fabricated cylindrical nanocolumns of 50 to 5000 nm in diameter using GaN/AlN single QW heterostructures grown via molecular beam epitaxy while using photolithography with a combination of wet and reactive ion etching. Photoluminescence measurements in an ultrasmall QW region enclosed in a nanocolumn revealed that narrow lines of individual excitons were localized on potential fluctuations attributed to 2-3-monolayer-high GaN clusters, which appear in QWs with an average thickness of 1 ML. The kinetics of luminescence with increasing temperature is determined via the change in the population of localized exciton states. At low temperatures, spin-forbidden dark excitons with lifetimes of ~40 ns predominate, while at temperatures elevated above 120 K, the overlying bright exciton states with much faster recombination dynamics determine the emission.
Analytical Modeling and Optimization of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 Solar Cells with the Use of Quantum Wells under the Radiative Limit
Authors: Rodriguez-Osorio Karina G. , Morán-Lázaro Juan P. , Ojeda-Martínez Miguel , Montoya De Los Santos Isaac , Ouarie Nassima El , Feddi El Mustapha , Pérez Laura M. , Laroze David , Routray Soumyaranjan , Sánchez-Rodríguez Fernando J. , Courel Maykel
Published: July 2023

In this work, we present a theoretical study on the use of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 quantum wells in Cu2ZnSnS4 solar cells to enhance device efficiency. The role of different well thickness, number, and S/(S + Se) composition values is evaluated. The physical mechanisms governing the optoelectronic parameters are analyzed. The behavior of solar cells based on Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 without quantum wells is also considered for comparison. Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 quantum wells with a thickness lower than 50 nm present the formation of discretized eigenstates which play a fundamental role in absorption and recombination processes. Results show that well thickness plays a more important role than well number. We found that the use of wells with thicknesses higher than 20 nm allow for better efficiencies than those obtained for a device without nanostructures. A record efficiency of 37.5% is achieved when 36 wells with a width of 50 nm are used, considering an S/(S + Se) well compositional ratio of 0.25.
A Wrinkling and Etching-Assisted Regrowth Strategy for Large-Area Bilayer Graphene Preparation on Cu
Authors: Li Qiongyu , Liu Tongzhi , Li You , Li Fang , Zhao Yanshuai , Huang Shihao
Published: July 2023

Bilayer graphene is a contender of interest for functional electronic applications because of its variable band gap due to interlayer interactions. Graphene growth on Cu is self-limiting, thus despite the fact that chemical vapor deposition (CVD) has made substantial strides in the production of monolayer and single-crystal graphene on Cu substrates, the direct synthesizing of high-quality, large-area bilayer graphene remains an enormous challenge. In order to tackle this issue, we present a simple technique using typical CVD graphene growth followed by a repetitive wrinkling-etching-regrowth procedure. The key element of our approach is the rapid cooling process that causes high-density wrinkles to form in the monolayer area rather than the bilayer area. Next, wrinkled sites are selectively etched with hydrogen, exposing a significant portion of the active Cu surface, and leaving the remaining bilayer areas, which enhance the nucleation and growth of the second graphene layer. A fully covered graphene with 78 ± 2.8% bilayer coverage and a bilayer transmittance of 95.6% at room temperature can be achieved by modifying the process settings. Bilayer graphene samples are examined using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and an atomic force microscope (AFM) during this process. The outcomes of our research are beneficial in clarifying the growth processes and future commercial applications of bilayer graphene.
The Mediation and Moderation Effect Association among Physical Activity, Body-Fat Percentage, Blood Pressure, and Serum Lipids among Chinese Adults: Findings from the China Health and Nutrition Surveys in 2015
Authors: Zou Qinpei , Su Chang , Du Wenwen , Ouyang Yifei , Wang Huijun , Zhang Bing , Luo Shuquan , Tan Tao , Chen Yaokai , Zhong Xiaoni , Zhang Huadong
Published: July 2023

Physical activity (PA) is of benefit and particularly important for cardiovascular disease risk factors as being sedentary becomes a lifestyle habit. Research into Chinese complex association among physical activity, body-fat percentage (BF%), blood pressure, and serum lipids is limited. The present study is based on an observational study among adults (>18 years old) residing in fifteen provinces in China. Data of 10,148 adult participants in the 2015 China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) were analyzed. The simple mediation effect models with covariates were utilized to assess the association among PA and blood pressure or serum lipids, and BF% was played as a mediator. The serial multiple-mediator models with covariates were constructed to the further analysis of the relationship between PA and blood pressure, and BF% was the mediator 1 and blood lipids were the mediator 2. Based on the above hypothesis, the moderated mediation models with covariates were used to analyze the association among PA, BF%, and blood pressure; in addition, BF% was used as the mediator and blood lipids played as the moderator. In the simple mediation models, the model with a dependent variable was high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C); BF% was played as the partly mediation effect and the proportion of contribution was 0.23 and 0.25, respectively. In the serial multiple-mediator models, blood lipids, as the second mediator, played the mediation effect; however, the effect was smaller than the BF%. In the moderated mediation model, blood lipids had the moderation effect as the moderator variable. HDL-C played a moderating role in the latter pathway of the “PA→BF%→SBP/DBP” mediation model, and LDL-C/TC played a moderating role in the direct effect of the “PA→BF%→DBP”. In conclusion, BF% played a mediating role in the relationship between PA and blood pressure. HDL-C, LDL-C, and TC were more likely to act as moderating variables in the mediation model “PA→BF%→SBP/DBP”. PA could directly and indirectly benefit to control the CVD risk factors simultaneously.
High-Fiber Diet and Crohn’s Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Serrano Fernandez Victor , Seldas Palomino Marta , Laredo-Aguilera José Alberto , Pozuelo-Carrascosa Diana Patricia , Carmona-Torres Juan Manuel
Published: July 2023

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a subtype of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). CD is a health problem in Western countries such as the US and European nations and is an idiopathic disease; however, certain cases of CD have been associated with intestinal dysbiosis. A systematic review with a meta-analysis was carried out to determine the efficacy of a diet rich in fiber with or without cointervention to improve remission rates for CD. The literature in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials databases was reviewed. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Johanna Briggs Institute (JBI) scale. This review was conducted in accordance with the structure outlined in the PRISMA statement. In addition, a meta-analysis was performed with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a random effects model. Eleven studies were included, totaling 2389 patients with CD. Applying a diet rich in fiber with or without the administration of routine therapies improved CD remission rates. Data regarding CD activity, remission time, and adverse effects derived from fiber consumption were analyzed. Consumption of fiber in the diet could improve remission rates for CD patients who receive or do not receive other treatment to maintain remission.
Prebiotics Together with Raspberry Polyphenolic Extract Mitigate the Development of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Diseases in Zucker Rats
Authors: Fotschki Bartosz , Sójka Michał , Kosmala Monika , Juśkiewicz Jerzy
Published: July 2023

Previous studies suggested that dietary supplementation with prebiotic fructooligosaccharides (FOSs) and polyphenols could mitigate disorders related to the first stage of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) induced by an obesogenic diet. Therefore, this experiment aimed to address whether the health-promoting potential of raspberry polyphenols together with FOSs can regulate advanced-stage NAFLD in Zucker rats genetically predisposed to develop obesity. The addition of FOSs and raspberry polyphenolic extract to the diet reduced liver fat accumulation and triglyceride, free fatty acid, and total cholesterol levels in the liver. The elevated GSH/GSSG ratio and reduced malondialdehyde content indicated that the liver antioxidant potential was considerably increased. The treatment also lowered the plasma aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities and collagen type IV levels. Insulin levels were decreased, but glucose levels remained constant, indicating greater insulin sensitivity. These changes may result from the upregulation of FXR and AHR receptors in the liver, which are responsible for regulating lipid metabolism and glucose and bile acid synthesis. The reduced bile acid levels in the cecal contents confirmed the activation of liver mechanisms. In conclusion, dietary enrichment with FOSs and raspberry polyphenolic extract has sufficient health-promoting potential to regulate liver metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation related to NAFLD development in obese Zucker rats.
The Effects of Ketogenic Diet on Insulin Sensitivity and Weight Loss, Which Came First: The Chicken or the Egg?
Authors: Paoli Antonio , Bianco Antonino , Moro Tatiana , Mota Joao Felipe , Coelho-Ravagnani Christianne de Faria
Published: July 2023

The ketogenic diet (KD) is, nowadays, considered an interesting nutritional approach for weight loss and improvement in insulin resistance. Nevertheless, most of the studies available in the literature do not allow a clear distinction between its effects on insulin sensitivity per se, and the effects of weight loss induced by KDs on insulin sensitivity. In this review, we discuss the scientific evidence on the direct and weight loss mediated effects of KDs on glycemic status in humans, describing the KD’s biochemical background and the underlying mechanisms.
Hypoxia-Driven Responses in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Miguel Verónica , Rojo Alba
Published: July 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 10% of the population. Fibrosis is the hallmark of CKD, which is marked by the deposit of extracellular matrix (ECM). This response is the final outcome of an unbalanced reaction to inflammation and wound healing and can be induced by a variety of insults, including hypoxia. Vascular damage results in an impaired tissue oxygen supply, inducing immune cell infiltration, tubule injury and the activation of ECM-secreting myofibroblasts. In turn, tubulointerstitial fibrosis development worsens oxygen diffusion. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is the primary transcriptional regulator of hypoxia-associated responses, such as oxidative stress and metabolic reprogramming, triggering a proinflammatory and profibrotic landscape. In this review, we discuss hypoxia-driven reprogramming in CKD as well as potential therapeutic approaches to target chronic hypoxia.
Seroepidemiological Analysis of Canine Leptospira Species Infections in Changchun, China
Authors: Ding Yue , Zhang Wenlong , Xie Xufeng , Zhang Shilei , Song Ning , Liu Zhanbin , Cao Yongguo
Published: July 2023

Leptospirosis is a significant worldwide zoonotic infectious disease that infects a wide range of animals and humans. Leptospira will colonize the animal’s urinary and reproductive systems and be excreted with urine, potentially causing a wide range of infections. Dogs are an essential host for Leptospira, and epidemiological investigation studies of leptospirosis must be conducted to clarify the prevalence of leptospirosis and to reduce the risk of transmission to humans. This study aimed to investigate the seroepidemiology of leptospiral infection in dogs from Changchun, China, using Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT). A total of 1053 canine blood samples were collected and tested by MAT. The positive rate of MAT was approximately 19.1%. The main prevalent Leptospira serogroups were L. Icterohaemorrhagiae (8.1%), L. Canicola (7.6%), L. Australis (5.3%), L. Ballum (4.7%) and L. Pyrogenes (4.2%). No statistically significant difference among different varieties, sexes and sampling seasons (p > 0.05), except the age (p < 0.05). The seropositive rate was much higher in adult and aged dogs than in juvenile dogs. Our results showed the seroprevalence and the prevalent serogroup of Canine leptospirosis in Changchun, China.
Suspected Suicide Attempt and Intentional Misuse Cases Aged 50+ Involving Amphetamine or Methylphenidate and Medical Outcomes: Associations with Co-Used Other Substances
Authors: Choi Namkee G. , Choi Bryan Y. , Baker S. David
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Given the increasing adult use of amphetamine and methylphenidate and their high misuse potential, we examined suspected suicide attempts and other intentional misuse and medical outcomes and their associations with co-used other substances among amphetamine and methylphenidate exposure cases aged 50+. Methods: Using the 2015–2021 U.S. National Poison Data System (N = 7701 amphetamine and/or methylphenidate cases), we fit two generalized linear models for a Poisson distribution with a log link function, with suspected suicide attempt versus intentional misuse and major medical effect/death versus other outcomes as the dependent variables. Results: Of all amphetamine/methylphenidate exposure cases, suspected suicide attempts and intentional misuse were 28.4% and 13.2%, respectively. Benzodiazepine use was associated with a higher likelihood, but any illicit drug use was associated with a lower likelihood of suspected suicide attempts compared to intentional misuse. The type of stimulant involved (amphetamine or methylphenidate) was not significant. The co-use of antidepressants (IRR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.16–1.76), prescription opioids (IRR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.21–1.81), drugs for cardiovascular disease (IRR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.20–1.90), antipsychotics (IRR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.02–1.55), or illicit drugs (IRR = 2.40, 95% CI = 1.82–3.15) was associated with a higher likelihood of major effect/death. Conclusions: Suspected suicide attempts or intentional misuse accounted for more than 40% of amphetamine or methylphenidate exposure cases aged 50+. The higher likelihood of major effect/death in cases involving antidepressants, antipsychotics, and cardiovascular disease drugs also suggests the confounding effects of comorbid mental and physical health problems. Careful monitoring of those who were prescribed amphetamine or methylphenidate and use other substances is needed.
Lipid-Based Nanosystems for the Topical Application of Ferulic Acid: A Comparative Study
Authors: Sguizzato Maddalena , Ferrara Francesca , Drechsler Markus , Baldisserotto Anna , Montesi Leda , Manfredini Stefano , Valacchi Giuseppe , Cortesi Rita
Published: July 2023

In this study, we examined and compared two different lipid-based nanosystems (LBNs), namely Transferosomes (TFs) and Monoolein Aqueous Dispersions (MADs), as delivery systems for the topical application of Ferulic Acid (FA), an antioxidant molecule derived from natural sources. Our results, as demonstrated through Franz-cell experiments, indicate that the LBNs produced with poloxamer 188 in their composition create a multilamellar system. This system effectively controls the release of the drug. Nonetheless, we found that the type of non-ionic surfactant can impact the drug release rate. Regarding FA diffusion from the MAD, this showed a lower diffusion rate compared with the TF. In terms of an in vivo application, patch tests revealed that all LBN formulations tested were safe when applied under occlusive conditions for 48 h. Additionally, human skin biopsies were used to determine whether FA-containing formulations could influence skin tissue morphology or provide protection against O3 exposure. Analyses suggest that treatment with TFs composed of poloxamer 188 and MAD formulations might protect against structural skin damage (as observed in hematoxylin/eosin staining) and the development of an oxidative environment (as indicated by 4-hyroxinonenal (4HNE) expression levels) induced by O3 exposure. In contrast, formulations without the active ingredient did not offer protection against the detrimental effects of O3 exposure.Inizio modulo.
Therapeutic Potential and Predictive Pharmaceutical Modeling of Stilbenes in Cannabis sativa
Authors: O’Croinin Conor , Garcia Guerra Andres , Doschak Michael R. , Löbenberg Raimar , Davies Neal M.
Published: July 2023

Cannabis sativa is a plant used for recreational and therapeutic purposes; however, many of the secondary metabolites in the plant have not been thoroughly investigated. Stilbenes are a class of compounds with demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and are present in cannabis. Many stilbenes present in cannabis have been investigated for their therapeutic effects. Fourteen stilbenes have been identified to be present in cannabis, all of which are structurally dihydrostilbenoids, with half possessing a prenylated moiety. The stilbenes summarized in this analysis show varying degrees of therapeutic benefits ranging from anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-cancer to antioxidant effects. Many of the identified stilbenes have been researched to a limited extent for potential health benefits. In addition, predictive in silico modeling was performed on the fourteen identified cannabis-derived stilbenes. This modeling provides prospective activity, pharmacokinetic, metabolism, and permeability data, setting the groundwork for further investigation into these poorly characterized compounds.
Coleon U, Isolated from Plectranthus mutabilis Codd., Decreases P-Glycoprotein Activity Due to Mitochondrial Inhibition
Authors: Jovanović Stojanov Sofija , Ntungwe Epole N. , Dinić Jelena , Podolski-Renić Ana , Pajović Milica , Rijo Patrícia , Pešić Milica
Published: July 2023

Multidrug resistance in cancer is often mediated by P-glycoprotein. Natural compounds have been suggested as a fourth generation of P-glycoprotein inhibitors. Coleon U, isolated from Plectranthus mutabilis Codd., was reported to modulate P-glycoprotein activity but the underlying mechanism has not yet been revealed. Therefore, the effects of Coleon U on cell viability, proliferation, and cell death induction were studied in a non-small-cell lung carcinoma model comprising sensitive and multidrug-resistant cells with P-glycoprotein overexpression. P-glycoprotein activity and mitochondrial membrane potential were assessed by flow cytometry upon Coleon U, sodium-orthovanadate (an ATPase inhibitor), and verapamil (an ATPase stimulator) treatments. SwissADME was used to identify the pharmacokinetic properties of Coleon U, while P-glycoprotein expression was studied by immunofluorescence. Our results showed that Coleon U is not a P-glycoprotein substrate and is equally efficient in sensitive and multidrug-resistant cancer cells. A decrease in P-glycoprotein activity observed with Coleon U and verapamil after 72 h is antagonized in combination with sodium-orthovanadate. Coleon U induced a pronounced effect on mitochondrial membrane depolarization and showed a tendency to decrease P-glycoprotein expression. In conclusion, Coleon U-delayed effect on the decrease in P-glycoprotein activity is due to P-glycoprotein’s functioning dependence on ATP production in mitochondria.
Let-Us Investigate; A Meta-Analysis of Influencing Factors on Lettuce Crop Yields within Controlled-Environment Agriculture Systems
Authors: Gargaro Michael , Murphy Richard J. , Harris Zoe M.
Published: July 2023

Climate change-related impacts have hampered the productivity of agricultural lands in recent times, affecting food security globally. Novel technology-based agricultural production systems such as controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) are a way to reduce the impact of climatic variation and pests that harm current global crop production and ensure consistent crop development. These systems often use artificial lighting and soilless mediums to produce crops. This meta-analysis has investigated the key influencing factors on crop production within these systems, using previous studies on lettuce (the most cultivated crop in these systems) to understand what affects yield within CEA. This analysis has found that on average, CEA systems yield twice that of field-based agriculture (3.68 kg m−2 vs. 1.88 kg m−2), with the most influencing factors being the variety of cultivars grown, the season, the nutrient delivery method, and the lighting type. The cultivation time for this study was 40 days, with 94% of papers having trial periods of 70 days or less, much lower than field-based agriculture (60–120 days). Vertical farming (stacked vertical CEA cultivation) studies were found to especially drive up yield per area (6.88 kg m−2). The results of this meta-analysis are useful for starting to understand the key influencing factors on CEA growth and highlight the breadth of research ongoing in the CEA industry.
Genetic Variability for Micronutrient Content and Tuber Yield Traits among Biofortified Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Clones in Ethiopia
Authors: Seid Ebrahim , Tessema Lemma , Abebe Tesfaye , Solomon Atsede , Chindi Abebe , Hirut Betaw , Negash Kasaye , Shunka Egata , Mogse Zewditu , Burgos Gabriela , Mendes Thiago
Published: July 2023

Malnutrition is one of the global issues of public health concern, and iron and zinc deficiencies are at the top of the list. Iron deficiency affects more than 2 billion people in the world and is a major cause of anemia. Potato has the potential to be an important source of iron and zinc. This study assessed the nature and magnitude of genetic variability in Fe and Zn concentrations, tuber yield, and quality traits among biofortified tetraploid potato clones and their relationships through correlation and path analysis. A total of 45 potato genotypes, including the variety Gudanie, were grown in field trials in a 9 × 5 alpha lattice design with three replications. Significant differences in mineral, tuber quality, and yield traits were observed among the genotypes, and high broad-sense heritability was obtained for most traits, suggesting that progress through breeding can be achieved. However, negative correlations and direct effects on most of the traits with Fe and Zn contents are found both at genotypic and phenotypic levels. Therefore, attaining simultaneous genetic gain for yield and enhanced Fe and Zn concentrations will be challenging. Cluster analysis assembled them into five groups. Cluster II contained the most prominent genotypes, having better mean values compared to all other genotypes for micronutrient traits, viz., Fe (23.80 mg kg−1) and Zn (17.07 mg kg−1). The results of this study confirm the presence of sufficient genetic variation for iron and zinc mineral concentration and the possibility to make significant progress through breeding.
Microencapsulation of Gallic Acid Based on a Polymeric and pH-Sensitive Matrix of Pectin/Alginate
Authors: Nájera-Martínez Erik Francisco , Flores-Contreras Elda A. , Araújo Rafael G. , Iñiguez-Moreno Maricarmen , Sosa-Hernández Juan Eduardo , Iqbal Hafiz M. N. , Pastrana Lorenzo M. , Melchor-Martínez Elda M. , Parra-Saldívar Roberto
Published: July 2023

The encapsulation of gallic acid (GA) through several methods has enhanced its shelf life and facilitated industrial applications. Polymeric matrices made of alginate and pectin were evaluated to encapsulate GA via spray drying. The pH-responsive release mechanism was monitored to validate the matrices’ performances as wall materials and extend the bioactive compound stability. The microcapsules produced were characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The retention and encapsulation efficiency ranges were 45–82% and 79–90%, respectively. The higher values were reached at 3 and 0.75% (w/v) pectin and sodium alginate, respectively. The scanning electron microscopy showed smooth spherical capsules and the average particle size ranged from 1327 to 1591 nm. Their performance and stability were evaluated with optimal results at a pH value of 7 throughout the investigation period. Therefore, this work demonstrated the suitability of gallic acid encapsulation via spray drying using pectin and alginate, which are biopolymers that can be obtained from circular economy processes starting from agro-industrial biomass. The developed formulations provide an alternative to protecting and controlling the release of GA, promoting its application in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries and allowing for the release of compounds with high bioactive potential.
Preparation and Characterization of Light-Colored Polyimide Nanocomposite Films Derived from a Fluoro-Containing Semi-Alicyclic Polyimide Matrix and Colloidal Silica with Enhanced High-Temperature Dimensionally Stability
Authors: He Zhibin , Ren Xi , Wang Zhenzhong , Pan Zhen , Qi Yuexin , Han Shujun , Yu Haifeng , Liu Jingang
Published: July 2023

Light-colored and transparent polyimide (PI) films with good high-temperature dimensional stability are highly desired for advanced optoelectronic applications. However, in practice, the simultaneous achievement of good optical and thermal properties in one PI film is usually difficult due to the inter-conflicting molecular design of the polymers. In the present work, a series of PI-SiO2 nanocomposite films (ABTFCPI) were developed based on the PI matrix derived from hydrogenated pyromellitic anhydride (HPMDA) and an aromatic diamine containing benzanilide and trifluoromethyl substituents in the structure, 2,2′-bis(trifluoromethyl)-4,4′-bis [4-(4-aminobenzamide)]biphenyl (ABTFMB). The inorganic SiO2 fillers were incorporated into the nanocomposite films in the form of colloidal nanoparticles dispersed in the good solvent of N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc) for the PI matrix. The derived ABTFCPI nanocomposite films showed good film-forming ability, flexible and tough nature, good optical transparency, and good thermal properties with loading amounts of SiO2 up to 30 wt% in the system. The ABTFCPI-30 film with a SiO2 content of 30 wt% in the film showed an optical transmittance of 79.6% at the wavelength of 400 nm (T400) with a thickness of 25 μm, yellow index (b*) of 2.15, and 5% weight loss temperatures (T5%) of 491 °C, which are all comparable to those the pristine ABTFCPI-0 matrix without filler (T400 = 81.8%; b* = 1.77; T5% = 492 °C). Meanwhile, the ABTFCPI-30 film exhibited obviously enhanced high-temperature dimensional stability with linear coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) of 25.4 × 10−6/K in the temperature range of 50 to 250 °C, which is much lower than that of the AMTFCPI-0 film (CTE = 32.7 × 10−6/K).
Dynamic Crushing Behavior of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Copolymer Foam Based on Energy Method
Authors: Xing Yueqing , Guo Xiya , Shu Guowei , He Xiaolong
Published: July 2023

This paper aimed to experimentally clarify the dynamic crushing mechanism and performance of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) and analyze the influence of density and thickness on its mechanical behavior and energy absorption properties under dynamic impact loadings. Hence, a series of dynamic compression tests were carried out on EVA foams with different densities and thicknesses. When the impact energy is 66.64 J, for foam with a density of 150 kg/m3, the maximum contact force, maximum displacement, maximum strain, absorbed energy, and specific energy absorption (SEA) increased by 20 ± 2%, −38.5 ± 2%, −38.5 ± 2%, 4 ± 2%, and 105 ± 2%, respectively, compared to foam with a density of 70 kg/m3. The ratios of absorbed energy to impact energy for different thickness specimens are almost equal. The specimen density has no effect on the efficiency of energy absorption and has a greater effect on the SEA. Meanwhile, when the impact energy-to-thickness ratio is 1680 J/m, compared to foam with a thickness of 30 mm, the maximum contact force, maximum displacement, maximum strain, absorbed energy, and SEA for foam with a thickness of 60 mm increased by 28.5 ± 2%, 211.3 ± 2%, 56.6 ± 2%, 100.8 ± 2%, and 0.4 ± 0.5%, respectively. When the impact energy is 66.64 J, compared to foam with a thickness of 30 mm, the maximum contact force, maximum displacement, maximum stain, absorbed energy, and SEA for foam with a thickness of 60 mm increased by −42.5 ± 2%, 163.5 ± 2%, 31.7 ± 2%, 4.1 ± 2%, and 4.1 ± 2%, respectively. The SEA of two different-thickness EVA specimens is almost equal, about 2.8 J/g. The ratios of absorbed energy to impact energy for different thickness specimens are almost equal, both at 72%. The specimen thickness has no effect on the efficiency of energy absorption and has a greater effect on the maximum contact force. In the range of impact energy, thickness, and density studied, the absorbed energy and SEA are not affected by the thickness of EVA specimens and are determined by the impact energy. The density has no significant effect on the absorbed energy but has a greater effect on the SEA. However, for EVA foams, the greater the density, the greater the mass, and the higher the cost. Taking into account lightweight and cost factors, when optimizing cushioning design within a safe range, we can choose EVA foams with a smaller density and thickness.
Exploring Alternatives to Polyacrylamide: A Comparative Study of Novel Polymers in the Flocculation and Dewatering of Iron Ore Tailings
Authors: Zago Gustavo P. , Giudici Reinaldo , Soares João B. P.
Published: July 2023

Despite being widely used in tailings treatment, polyacrylamide continues to face performance challenges. In this study, two commercial polyacrylamides with different molecular weights were used to flocculate iron ore tailings and their performance was compared with two polymers designed to treat oil sand tailings: poly(vinylbenzyl)trimethylammonium chloride and partially hydrolyzed poly(methyl acrylate) grafted onto ethylene-propylene-diene copolymer backbones. The polyacrylamide with the highest molecular weight performed better than the one with the lowest molecular weight, but its efficiency was still considerably lower than what would be desired for good solid–liquid separation. The new polymer flocculants performed better than the commercially available polyacrylamides but retained high amounts of water in the sediments. This comparison shows that polymers other than polyacrylamide may be used to treat iron ore tailings.