bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Investigation on the Influence of Crack Width of Asphalt Concrete on the Repair Effect of Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation
Authors: Fan Ling , Zheng Jinghong , Peng Shuquan , Xun Zhize , Chen Guoliang
Published: May 2023

The appearance of cracks is one of the reasons that affect the performance of asphalt pavement, and traditional repair methods have the potential problem of causing adverse effects on the environment. In this paper, an environmentally friendly method for asphalt concrete crack repair was investigated using microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP) for asphalt concrete cracks of different widths (0.5 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, and 3 mm), and the effectiveness of repair was evaluated using nondestructive and destructive experiments. A varied ultrasonic pulse velocity was used to evaluate the healing process, and it was found that the samples with an initial crack width of 0.5 mm showed the most significant increase in wave velocity of 18.06% after repair. The results also showed that the uniaxial compressive strength and indirect tensile strength of the MICP-repaired samples recovered up to 47.02% and 34.68%. Static creep test results showed that MICP-repaired samples with smaller width cracks had greater resistance to permanent deformation. The results of uniaxial compressive strength tests on larger width (3 mm) cracks repaired by MICP combined with fibers showed that the strength of the samples was significantly increased by the addition of fibers. In addition, the SEM/EDS results showed that the MICP products were spherical calcite particles with a particle size distribution from 0 to 10 μm. This study shows that MICP has some potential for repairing cracks in asphalt concrete of different widths within the range investigated.
Comparison of Ultrasonic Phased Array and Film Radiography in Detection of Artificially Embedded Defects in Welded Plates
Authors: Herceg Arijan , Maglić Leon , Grizelj Branko , Marušić Vlatko
Published: May 2023

Ultrasonic and radiographic testing are generally two basic methods for volumetric (internal) defect detection in non-destructive testing. Since both methods are commonly used for the same thing, the question arises as to whether both are equally capable of detecting some commonly occurring defects in manufacturing. Commonly occurring defects are generally considered to be fusion defects, drilled holes (which act as pores), etc. To prove or disprove the hypothesis that both methods can generally be used to detect these defects, an experiment was conducted using three welded plates with artificially inserted defects. The welded plates had multiple defects that were intentionally placed close to each other to further complicate the interpretation of the UT results. UT investigation was based on phased-array technology with a multi-element probe. RT investigation was performed with an X-ray machine. Both investigations were based on the respective European standards: for UT, EN ISO 17640, and for RT, EN ISO 17636-1. The results and conclusions from the experiment are presented in this paper.
Three-Dimensional Printed Resin: Impact of Different Cleaning Protocols on Degree of Conversion and Tensile Bond Strength to a Composite Resin Using Various Adhesive Systems
Authors: Lankes Valerie , Reymus Marcel , Mayinger Felicitas , Coldea Andrea , Liebermann Anja , Hoffmann Moritz , Stawarczyk Bogna
Published: May 2023

The present investigation tested the effect of cleaning methods and adhesives on the tensile bond strength (TBS) of a resin-based composite luted to a temporary 3D printed resin. Substrates (n= 360) were printed using a Rapidshape D20II and cleaned with a butyldiglycol-based solution, isopropanol, or by centrifugation. Specimens were air-abraded with Al2O3 (mean particle size 50 µm) at 0.1 MPa followed by pretreatment (n = 30/subgroup) with: (1) Clearfil Ceramic Primer (CCP); (2) Clearfil Universal Bond (CUB); (3) Scotchbond Universal Plus (SUP) or 4. Visio.link (VL) and luted to PanaviaV5. TBS (n = 15/subgroup) was measured initially (24 h at 37 °C water) or after thermal cycling (10,000×, 5/55 °C). The degree of conversion (DC) for each cleaning method was determined prior and after air-abrasion. Univariate ANOVA followed by post-hoc Scheffé test was computed (p < 0.05). Using Ciba-Geigy tables and chi-square, failure types were analyzed. The DC values were >85% after all cleaning methods, with centrifugation showing the lowest. CCP pretreatment exhibited the lowest TBS values, with predominantly adhesive failures. The combination of CCP and centrifugation increased the TBS values (p < 0.001) compared to the chemical cleaning. CUB, SUP, and VL, regardless of cleaning, can increase the bond strength between the 3D printed resin and the conventional luting resin.
Miconazole Nitrate Microparticles in Lidocaine Loaded Films as a Treatment for Oropharyngeal Candidiasis
Authors: Tejada Guillermo , Calvo Natalia L. , Morri Mauro , Sortino Maximiliano , Lamas Celina , Álvarez Vera A. , Leonardi Darío
Published: May 2023

Oral candidiasis is an opportunistic infection that affects mainly individuals with weakened immune system. Devices used in the oral area to treat this condition include buccal films, which present advantages over both oral tablets and gels. Since candidiasis causes pain, burning, and itching, the purpose of this work was to develop buccal films loaded with both lidocaine (anesthetic) and miconazole nitrate (MN, antifungal) to treat this pathology topically. MN was loaded in microparticles based on different natural polymers, and then, these microparticles were loaded in hydroxypropyl methylcellulose-gelatin-based films containing lidocaine. All developed films showed adequate adhesiveness and thickness. DSC and XRD tests suggested that the drugs were in an amorphous state in the therapeutic systems. Microparticles based on chitosan-alginate showed the highest MN encapsulation. Among the films, those containing the mentioned microparticles presented the highest tensile strength and the lowest elongation at break, possibly due to the strong interactions between both polymers. These films allowed a fast release of lidocaine and a controlled release of MN. Due to the latter, these systems showed antifungal activity for 24 h. Therefore, the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis with these films could reduce the number of daily applications with respect to conventional treatments.
The Influence of the Strain Rate and Prestatic Stress on the Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Sandstone—A Case Study from China
Authors: Wang Jun , Ren Zhiwei , Yang Shang , Ning Jianguo , Zhang Shuai , Bian Yongtian
Published: May 2023

A series of conventional dynamic uniaxial compressive (CDUC) tests and coupled static dynamic loading (CSDL) tests were performed using a split Hopkinson compression bar (SHPB) system to explore the variable dynamic mechanical behavior and fracture characteristics of medium siltstone at a microscopic scale in the laboratory. In the CDUC tests, the dynamic uniaxial strength of the medium sandstone is rate-dependent in the range of 17.5 to 96.8 s−1, while the dynamic elastic modulus is not dependent on the strain rate. Then, this paper proposes a generalized model to characterize the rate-dependent strength from 17.5 to 96.8 s−1. In the CSDL tests, with increasing initial prestatic stress, the dynamic elastic modulus and dynamic strength increase nonlinearly at first and then decrease. The results show that two classical morphological types (i.e., Type I and Type II) are observed in the dynamic stress–strain response from the CDUC and CSDL tests. By scanning electron microscopy (SEM), microscopic differences in the post-loading microcrack characteristics in the behavior of Type I and Type II are identified. In Class I behavior, intergranular fracture (IF) usually initiates at or near the grains, with most cracks deflected along the grain boundaries, resulting in a sharp angular edge, and then coalesces to the main fracture surface that splits the specimen along the direction of stress wave propagation. In contrast, Class II behavior results from the combined IF and transgranular fracture (TF).
The Effect of CH on Improving the Carbonation Resistance of OPC-CSA Binary Blends
Authors: Yang Shunqin , Li Guoxin , Zhang Ge
Published: May 2023

Due to the large amount of CO2 generated during steelmaking, to resume production as soon as possible, a fast repair material with good carbonation resistance is needed to repair the factory building. First, the performance of an ordinary Portland cement (OPC)-calcium sulfoaluminate cement (CSA) system under an accelerated carbonization environment was studied. Next, the OPC-CSA system with a CSA content of 15 wt% was selected to be modified by adding calcium hydroxide (CH). The findings showed that the addition of 15 wt% CSA to the OPC-CSA system resulted in the highest mechanical properties. Specifically, the flexural strength and compressive strength after 84 d of carbonization were 18% and 15% higher, respectively, compared to those of OPC alone. The degradation of the mechanical properties of the OPC-CSA system due to carbonation was improved by adding CH. The flexural strength (3.0 wt% CH) and the compressive strength (4.5 wt% CH) of the OPC-CSA-CH system after 84 d of carbonization were 13% and 5% higher, respectively, than those of the OPC-CSA system. The addition of CH increased the alkalinity of the OPC-CSA system and enhanced the stability of Aft, resulting in better carbonation resistance in the OPC-CSA-CH system.
Clinical and Biochemical Profile Associated with Renal Recovery after Acute Kidney Injury in A Mexican Population: Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ruiz-Gallardo Josué I. , Cervantes-Pérez Enrique , Pérez de Acha-Chávez Andrea , Cervantes-Cardona Guillermo A. , Ramírez-Ochoa Sol , Nápoles-Echauri Adriana , González-Ojeda Alejandro , Fuentes-Orozco Clotilde , Hernández-Mora Francisco Javier , Gómez-Sánchez Eduardo , Michel-González Jorge I. , González-Valencia Carlos Miguel , Cervantes-Guevara Gabino
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: Our primary objective was to study the clinical and biochemical characteristics associated with acute kidney injury (AKI) remission in a group of Mexican patients. Materials and methods: We retrospectively enrolled 75 patients who were diagnosed with AKI and separated the sample into two groups: nonremitting patients (n = 27, 36%) vs. remitting patients (n = 48, 64%). Results: We found significant relationships between nonremitting AKI and previous diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (p = 0.009), higher serum creatinine (Cr) at admission (p < 0.0001), lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (p < 0.0001), maximum serum creatinine during hospitalization (p < 0.0001), higher fractional excretion of sodium (FENa) (p < 0.0003) and 24-h urine protein (p = 0.005), higher serum potassium on admission (p = 0.025), abnormal levels of procalcitonin (p = 0.006), and increased risk of death (p = 0.015). Conclusion: Chronic kidney disease (CKD), lower eGFR, higher levels of serum creatinine during hospitalization, higher FENa and 24-h urine protein, abnormal levels of procalcitonin, and higher serum potassium on admission were associated with nonremitting AKI. These findings may facilitate the rapid identification of patients at risk for nonremitting AKI based on clinical and biochemical characteristics. Furthermore, these findings may inform the design of timely strategies for the vigilance, prevention, and treatment of AKI.
A Rare and Easily Overlooked Case of Bilateral Traumatic Testicular Dislocation and an Alternative Viewpoint on Delayed Management
Authors: Hsu Ming-Wei , Hsieh Po-Fan , Tsai Li-Hsien
Published: May 2023

The incidence of traumatic testicular dislocation is rare, and it is usually overlooked in an initial diagnosis. We present a case of bilateral dislocated testes after a traffic accident that was treated via orchidopexy one week later. No testicular complications had occurred by the time of the follow-up visit. Generally, surgery is often postponed owing to a late diagnosis or another major organ injury, and the adequate timing of surgery is still under debate. We performed a review of past cases, which showed similar testicular outcomes irrespective of surgical timing. Delayed intervention may be a feasible decision after a patient’s hemodynamic status is stable for surgery. To prevent delayed diagnosis, scrotal examination should not be overlooked in any patients presenting with pelvic trauma to the emergency department.
Fatigue Behavior and Crack Mechanism of Metals and Alloys
Authors: Berto Filippo
Published: May 2023

Fatigue is one of the most critical problems in structural design, and this is true at different scale levels [...]
Novel Wear-Resistant Mechanism Induced by MUPZs via RRA Process in Microalloyed High Manganese Steel
Authors: Wang Rui , Huang Xiaomin , Zhang Wen , Fu Hao , Chen Xin , Li Zulai , Shan Quan
Published: May 2023

Microalloying and heat treatment have been regarded as an efficient way to get higher wear resistance in high manganese steel, and multiscale precipitates can be obtained randomly by the aging process; however, most of the previous work on heat treatment was more concerned with peak aging time and not the synergistic mechanism of different sized precipitates. Here, we propose a novel wear-resistant mechanism by multiscale precipitates regulated via a retrogression and re-aging (RRA) process. Micron, submicron, and nano precipitates are obtained by the RRA process and jointly form micro-scale ultrafine precipitation zones (MUPZs), which can protect the matrix surface and reduce the abrasive embedded probability, thus ameliorating the micro-cutting and micro-plowing mechanisms. This novel wear-resistant mechanism induced by MUPZs shows better effect under high impact energy due to sufficient work hardening caused by the interaction between dislocations and multi-scale precipitates in MUPZs. This work was investigated using SEM, EDS, and TEM, combined with mechanical properties and impact abrasive wear tests.
Wear and Corrosion Performance of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy Arc-Coated TiN/CrN Nano-Multilayer Film
Authors: Hsu Cheng-Hsun , Lin Chun-Yin , Chen Jian-Xun
Published: May 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of varying bias parameters (−50 V, −100 V, and −150 V) on the properties of TiN/CrN multilayer films deposited on Ti-6Al-4V alloy using the cathodic arc deposition (CAD) technique. The deposited films were characterized for their composition, structure, morphology, thickness, adhesion, and hardness. Wear and polarization tests were also conducted to determine the optimal bias condition for wear and corrosion resistance. The results showed that the TiN/CrN films possessed a nano-multilayered structure comprising TiN and CrN phases. The hard coating significantly increased the surface hardness of Ti-6Al-4V alloy up to three–five times. The coated specimens demonstrated superior wear resistance compared to the uncoated, with the −150 V specimen exhibiting the least wear rate. Furthermore, the −150 V specimen had the highest polarization impedance value, indicating the best corrosion resistance compared to the other bias conditions. In short, the use of CAD-coated TiN/CrN multilayer film enhanced the surface properties of Ti-6Al-4V alloy, with the best wear and corrosion resistance achieved at −150 V bias. These novel findings have significant implications for improving the performance and durability of Ti-6Al-4V alloy components in various industrial applications.
Dam Body Condition Score Alters Offspring Circulating Cortisol and Energy Metabolites in Holstein Calves but Did Not Affect Neonatal Leptin Surge
Authors: Brown William E. , Holdorf Henry T. , Kendall Sophia J. , White Heather M.
Published: May 2023

The neonatal leptin surge is important for hypothalamic development, feed intake regulation, and long-term metabolic control. In sheep, the leptin surge is eliminated with maternal overnutrition and an elevated dam body condition score (BCS), but this has not been assessed in dairy cattle. The aim of this study was to characterize the neonatal profile of leptin, cortisol and other key metabolites in calves born to Holstein cows with a range of BCS. Dam BCS was determined 21 d before expected parturition. Blood was collected from calves within 4 h of birth (d 0), and on days 1, 3, 5, and 7. Serum was analyzed for concentrations of leptin, cortisol, blood urea nitrogen, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), free fatty acids (FFA), triglycerides, and total protein (TP). Statistical analysis was performed separately for calves sired by Holstein (HOL) or Angus (HOL-ANG) bulls. Leptin tended to decrease after birth in HOL calves, but there was no evidence of an association between leptin and BCS. For HOL calves, the cortisol level increased with an increasing dam BCS on day 0 only. Dam BCS was variably associated with the calf BHB and TP levels, depending on the sire breed and day of age. Further investigation is required to elucidate the impacts of maternal dietary and energy status during gestation on offspring metabolism and performance, in addition to the potential impact of the absence of a leptin surge on long-term feed intake regulation in dairy cattle.
Iodine and Thyroid Maternal and Fetal Metabolism during Pregnancy
Authors: Mégier Charles , Dumery Grégoire , Luton Dominique
Published: May 2023

Thyroid hormones and iodine are required to increase basal metabolic rate and to regulate protein synthesis, long bone growth and neuronal maturation. They are also essential for protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism regulation. Imbalances in thyroid and iodine metabolism can negatively affect these vital functions. Pregnant women are at risk of hypo or hyperthyroidism, in relation to or regardless of their medical history, with potential dramatic outcomes. Fetal development highly relies on thyroid and iodine metabolism and can be compromised if they malfunction. As the interface between the fetus and the mother, the placenta plays a crucial role in thyroid and iodine metabolism during pregnancy. This narrative review aims to provide an update on current knowledge of thyroid and iodine metabolism in normal and pathological pregnancies. After a brief description of general thyroid and iodine metabolism, their main modifications during normal pregnancies and the placental molecular actors are described. We then discuss the most frequent pathologies to illustrate the upmost importance of iodine and thyroid for both the mother and the fetus.
Delving into Agri-Food Waste Composition for Antibacterial Phytochemicals
Authors: Pereira Jorge A. M. , Berenguer Cristina V. , Câmara José S.
Published: May 2023

The overuse of antibiotics in the healthcare, veterinary, and agricultural industries has led to the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), resulting in significant economic losses worldwide and a growing healthcare problem that urgently needs to be solved. Plants produce a variety of secondary metabolites, making them an area of interest in the search for new phytochemicals to cope with AMR. A great part of agri-food waste is of plant origin, constituting a promising source of valuable compounds with different bioactivities, including those against antimicrobial resistance. Many types of phytochemicals, such as carotenoids, tocopherols, glucosinolates, and phenolic compounds, are widely present in plant by-products, such as citrus peels, tomato waste, and wine pomace. Unveiling these and other bioactive compounds is therefore very relevant and could be an important and sustainable form of agri-food waste valorisation, adding profit for local economies and mitigating the negative impact of these wastes’ decomposition on the environment. This review will focus on the potential of agri-food waste from a plant origin as a source of phytochemicals with antibacterial activity for global health benefits against AMR.
Nonlinear Energy Harvesting by Piezoelectric Bionic ‘M’ Shape Generating Beam Featured in Reducing Stress Concentration
Authors: Xiong Chao , Wu Nan , He Yuncheng , Cai Yuan , Zeng Xianming , Jin Peichen , Lai Minyi
Published: May 2023

Inspired by the flapping wings of seagulls during flight, a new low-cost, magnet-free, bistable piezoelectric energy harvester is proposed to obtain energy from low-frequency vibration and convert it into electrical energy and reduce fatigue damage caused by stress concentration. In order to optimize the power generation efficiency of this energy harvesting, finite element analysis and experimental tests were carried out. The results of finite element analysis and experimental results are in good agreement, and the superior performance in improving stress concentration of the energy harvester compared to the previous parabolic (bow-shaped) one using bistable technology was quantitatively analyzed using finite element simulation, with a maximum stress reduction of 32.34%. The experimental results showed that under optimal operating conditions, the maximum open-circuit voltage of the harvester was 11.5 V, and the maximum output power was 73 μW. These results indicate that this is a promising strategy, which provides a reference for collecting vibrational energy in low-frequency environments.
Analysis of Trapping Effect on Large-Signal Characteristics of GaN HEMTs Using X-Parameters and UV Illumination
Authors: Chen Kun-Ming , Lin Chuang-Ju , Chuang Chia-Wei , Pai Hsuan-Cheng , Chang Edward-Yi , Huang Guo-Wei
Published: May 2023

GaN high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) have attracted widespread attention for high-power microwave applications, owing to their superior properties. However, the charge trapping effect has limitations to its performance. To study the trapping effect on the device large-signal behavior, AlGaN/GaN HEMTs and metal-insulator-semiconductor HEMTs (MIS-HEMTs) were characterized through X-parameter measurements under ultraviolet (UV) illumination. For HEMTs without passivation, the magnitude of the large-signal output wave (X21FB) and small-signal forward gain (X2111S) at fundamental frequency increased, whereas the large-signal second harmonic output wave (X22FB) decreased when the device was exposed to UV light, resulting from the photoconductive effect and suppression of buffer-related trapping. For MIS-HEMTs with SiN passivation, much higher X21FB and X2111S have been obtained compared with HEMTs. It suggests that better RF power performance can be achieved by removing the surface state. Moreover, the X-parameters of the MIS-HEMT are less dependent on UV light, since the light-induced performance enhancement is offset by excess traps in the SiN layer excited by UV light. The radio frequency (RF) power parameters and signal waveforms were further obtained based on the X-parameter model. The variation of RF current gain and distortion with light was consistent with the measurement results of X-parameters. Therefore, the trap number in the AlGaN surface, GaN buffer, and SiN layer must be minimized for a good large-signal performance of AlGaN/GaN transistors.
Analysis of Muscle Strength and Electromyographic Activity during Different Deadlift Positions
Authors: Moreira Vinícius Marques , Lima Leonardo Coelho Rabello de , Mortatti Arnaldo Luis , Souza Thiago Mattos Frota de , Lima Fernando Vitor , Oliveira Saulo Fernandes Melo , Cabido Christian Emmanuel Torres , Aidar Felipe J. , Costa Manoel da Cunha , Pires Thiago , Acioli Tatiana , Fermino Rogério César , Assumpção Cláudio Oliveira , Banja Túlio
Published: May 2023

The aim of the study was to analyze muscle activation in the three positions of the deadlift (DL). Twenty male participants (33.4 ± 3.9 years; 42.2 ± 9.1 months of experience with DL; 91.0 ± 14.8 kg; and 1.78 ± 0.06 m) pulled a bar through isometric actions in three DL positions: lift-off, mid-pull, and lockout. Isometric strength, knee angle, and activation of the rectus femoris (RF), biceps femoris (BF), lateral gastrocnemius (GAL), and erector spinae (ERE) muscles were collected. The analysis of variance showed that the maximum isometric force presented differences between the positions (p = 0.001; η2 = 0.973) considered large with higher values at the mid-pull position. Interactions were found between muscles and position (p = 0.001; η2 = 0.527) considered large. The RF and ERE showed greater activation in the lift-off position, while in the mid-pull position, there was greater activation of the BF and GAL muscles. The DL positions produce different activations in the bi-articular and uni-articular muscles. The lift-off requires more activation from the RF and ERE positions. The mid-pull position, despite generating greater force, presented greater activations in the BF and GAL. The ERE showed higher activations as the external torque was greater.
Rational Design of Lewis Base Electron Transport Materials for Improved Interface Property in Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells: A Theoretical Investigation
Authors: Ran Xueqin , Yang Jixuan , Ali Mohamad Akbar , Yang Lei , Chen Yonghua
Published: May 2023

Electron transport materials (ETMs) play a vital role in electron extraction and transport at the perovskite/ETM interface of inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and are useful in power conversion efficiency (PCE), which is limited by interface carrier recombination. However, strategies for passivating undercoordinated Pb2+ at the perovskite/ETM interface employing ETMs remain a challenge. In this work, a variety of heteroatoms were used to strengthen the Lewis base property of new ETMs (asymmetrical perylene-diimide), aimed at deactivating non-bonded Pb2+ at the perovskite surface through Lewis acid-base coordination. Quantum chemical analysis revealed that novel ETMs have matched the energy level of perovskite, which enables electron extraction at the perovskite/ETM interface. The results also suggest that the large electron mobility (0.57~5.94 cm2 V−1 s−1) of designed ETMs shows excellent electron transporting ability. More importantly, reinforced interaction between new ETMs and Pb2+ was found, which is facilitating to passivation of the defects induced by unsaturated Pb2+ at the perovskite/ETM interface. Furthermore, it is found that MA (CH3NH3+), Pb, and IPb (iodine substituted on the Pb site) defects at the perovskite/ETM interface could be effectively deactivated by the new ETMs. This study provides a useful strategy to design ETMs for improving the interface property in PSCs.
Over Two-Fold Photoluminescence Enhancement from Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Induced by Oxygen Doping
Authors: Eremin Timofei , Eremina Valentina , Svirko Yuri , Obraztsov Petr
Published: May 2023

Covalent functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) is a promising way to improve their photoluminescent (PL) brightness and thus make them applicable as a base material for infrared light emitters. We report as high as over two-fold enhancement of the SWCNT PL brightness by using oxygen doping via the UV photodissociation of hypochlorite ions. By analyzing the temporal evolution of the PL and Raman spectra of SWCNTs in the course of the doping process, we conclude that the enhancement of SWCNTs PL brightness depends on the homogeneity of induced quantum defects distribution over the SWCNT surface.
Catalytic Hydrodechlorination of 4-Chlorophenol by Palladium-Based Catalyst Supported on Alumina and Graphene Materials
Authors: Jeon Jintae , Park Yuri , Hwang Yuhoon
Published: May 2023

Hydrodechlorination (HDC) is a reaction that involves the use of hydrogen to cleave the C−Cl bond in chlorinated organic compounds such as chlorophenols and chlorobenzenes, thus reducing their toxicity. In this study, a palladium (Pd) catalyst, which is widely used for HDC due to its advantageous physical and chemical properties, was immobilized on alumina (Pd/Al) and graphene-based materials (graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide; Pd/GO and Pd/rGO, respectively) to induce the HDC of 4-chlorophenol (4-CP). The effects of the catalyst dosage, initial 4-CP concentration, and pH on 4-CP removal were evaluated. We observed that 4-CP was removed very rapidly when the HDC reaction was induced by Pd/GO and Pd/rGO. The granulation of Pd/rGO using sand was also investigated as a way to facilitate the separation of the catalyst from the treated aqueous solution after use, which is to improve practicality and effectiveness of the use of Pd catalysts with graphene-based support materials in an HDC system. The granulated catalyst (Pd/rGOSC) was employed in a column to induce HDC in a continuous flow reaction, leading to the successful removal of most 4-CP after 48 h. The reaction mechanisms were also determined based on the oxidation state of Pd, which was observed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Based on the results as a whole, the proposed granulated catalyst has the potential to greatly enhance the practical applicability of HDC for water purification.
Changes in the Gut Microbiota after the Use of Herbal Medicines in Overweight and Obese Individuals: A Systematic Review
Authors: Huang Miguel , Cople-Rodrigues Cláudia dos Santos , Waitzberg Dan L. , Rocha Ilanna Marques Gomes da , Curioni Cintia Chaves
Published: May 2023

Background: Herbal medicine is a low-cost treatment and has been increasingly applied in obesity treatment. Gut microbiota (GM) is strongly associated with obesity pathogenesis. Methods: We conducted a systematic review guided by the question: “Does the use of herbal medicine change the GM composition in obese individuals?” Randomized clinical trials with obese individuals assessing the effects of herbal medicine intervention in GM were retrieved from the Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases, including the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register. Two reviewers independently extracted data using standardized piloted data extraction forms and assessed the study-level risk of bias using an Excel template of the Cochrane “Risk of bias” tool 2—RoB 2. Results: We identified 1094 articles in the databases. After removing duplicates and reading the title and abstract, 14 publications were fully evaluated, of which seven publications from six studies were considered eligible. The herbs analyzed were Moringa oleifera, Punica granatum, Scutellaria baicalensis, Schisandra chinensis, W-LHIT and WCBE. The analysis showed that Schisandra chinensis and Scutellaria baicalensis had significant effects on weight loss herbal intervention therapy composed by five Chinese herbal medicines Ganoderma lucidum, Coptis chinensis, Astragalus membranaceus, Nelumbo nucifera gaertn, and Fructus aurantii (W-LHIT) and white common bean extract (WCBE) on GM, but no significant changes in anthropometry and laboratory biomarkers. Conclusions: Herbal medicine modulates GM and is associated with increased genera in obese individuals.
Insight into the Sustainability of the Mediterranean Diet: The Water Footprint of the Recommended Italian Diet
Authors: Bordoni Alessandra
Published: May 2023

At present, as we face climate change and natural resource scarcity, one of the major challenges linking humans and the environment is to ensure sufficient, nutritious, safe, and affordable food for a rapidly growing world population. In a nutshell, “feed the world without destroying it”. The water footprint (WF), i.e., the withdrawals of fresh water necessary to produce one kilogram of food product, is one of the key indicators of the environmental impact of diets. In this work, the WF of the food patterns suggested by the Italian Food Based Dietary Guidelines, considered a model of the Mediterranean Diet, was evaluated for the first time. The data reported here clearly demonstrate that the suggested Italian dietary patterns have a low WF, the reduction of which by replacing animal foods with plant foods is limited because the suggested consumption of meat is already low. Consumer choice in the consumption of specific products within a food group could further reduce the WF of the diet, underlining the need to provide correct information not only to consumers but also to farmers and producers to encourage them to make water-saving choices.
Dietary Fibers in Healthy Children and in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Practical Guide
Authors: Salvatore Silvia , Battigaglia Maria Serena , Murone Elena , Dozio Eugenia , Pensabene Licia , Agosti Massimo
Published: May 2023

Dietary fibers include non-digestible plant carbohydrates, lignin and resistant starch. Dietary fibers provide immune, cardiovascular, metabolic and intestinal beneficial effects in humans. Fibers naturally present in foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, cereals) or used as supplements have different physical, chemical and functional profiles. This narrative review provides an update to the knowledge on the effects of dietary fibers in healthy subjects and in children with gastrointestinal disorders. Soluble fibers are digested by gut bacteria, producing short-chain fatty acids and energy for colonocytes, and may exert prebiotic effects that promote the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. Non-soluble fibers are bulking agents and may improve intestinal transit. The exact amount and characteristics of the fiber requirement in infants and children need to be further established. There are limited data evaluating fibers in children with gastrointestinal disorders. The low intake of fibers has been associated with constipation, but the intake of excessive fibers is not recommended as it may cause flatulence and abdominal discomfort. Certain fibers (particularly psyllium in irritable bowel syndrome) have shown beneficial effects in children with gastrointestinal disorders, but the limited and heterogenous data do not currently allow a specific recommendation.
Influence of the TAS2R38 Gene Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Metabolism and Anthropometry in Thyroid Dysfunction
Authors: Costa Marta Mendes , Da Silva Alda Pereira , Santos Carolina , Ferreira Joana , Mascarenhas Mário Rui , Bicho Manuel , Barbosa Ana Paula
Published: May 2023

The gene TAS2R38 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs-P49A, A262V and V296I) can condition bitter tasting by PAV (proline–alanine–valine) and non-bitter-tasting by AVI (alanine–valine–isoleucine) homozygosity. We evaluated this polymorphisms association with thyroid function, metabolism and anthropometry parameters determined by: Endpoint analysis (SNPs); DXA (fat mass-%, total fat mass—kg, lean mass—kg); Standard methods (lipid metabolism parameters, HbA1c-%, glycemia—mg/dL, insulinemia—µIU/mL, HOMA-IR, uricemia—mg/dL, calcemia—mg/dL and BMI—kg/m2); ELISA (leptinemia—ng/mL); Spectrophotometry (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme activity—UI/L). Statistics: SPSS program; OR [IC95%]; p < 0.05. Sample: 114 hypothyroid, 49 hyperthyroid, and 179 controls. An association between A262V-valine–valine and hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism was verified (OR = 2.841; IC95% [1.726–4.676]), p < 0.001/OR = 8.915; IC95% [4.286–18.543]), p < 0.001). Protector effect from thyroid dysfunction: A262V-alanine–valine (OR = 0.467; IC95% [0.289–0.757], p = 0.002/OR = 0.132; IC95% [0.056–0.309], p < 0.001) and PAV (OR = 0.456; IC95% [0.282–0.737], p = 0.001/OR = 0.101; IC95% [0.041–0.250], p < 0.001). Higher parameter values associated with genotypes were: fat-mass-% (V296I-valine–isoleucine), lean-mass (P49A-proline–proline; PVI), leptin (AVI), HbA1c (A262V-alanine–valine) and lower values in lean-Mass (AVI; PVV), leptin (A262V-alanine–alanine), HbA1c (PVV), uricemia (V296I-valine–isoleucine), glycemia (A262V-alanine–alanine; AAV) and plasma triglycerides (PVV). In conclusion, TAS2R38 influences thyroid function, body composition and metabolism. Bitter taste perception (PAV) and the genotype A262V-alanine–valine can protect from thyroid dysfunction. AVV, PVV and genotype A262V-valine–valine may confer higher predisposition for thyroid dysfunction, particularly PVV for hyperthyroidism.
Dietary Oncopharmacognosy as a Crosswalk between Precision Oncology and Precision Nutrition
Authors: Thompson Henry J. , Lutsiv Tymofiy , McGinley John N. , Hussan Hisham , Playdon Mary C.
Published: May 2023

While diet and nutrition are modifiable risk factors for many chronic and infectious diseases, their role in cancer prevention and control remains under investigation. The lack of clarity of some diet–cancer relationships reflects the ongoing debate about the relative contribution of genetic factors, environmental exposures, and replicative errors in stem cell division as determinate drivers of cancer risk. In addition, dietary guidance has often been based upon research assuming that the effects of diet and nutrition on carcinogenesis would be uniform across populations and for various tumor types arising in a specific organ, i.e., that one size fits all. Herein, we present a paradigm for investigating precision dietary patterns that leverages the approaches that led to successful small-molecule inhibitors in cancer treatment, namely understanding the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of small molecules for targeting carcinogenic mechanisms. We challenge the scientific community to refine the paradigm presented and to conduct proof-in-concept experiments that integrate existing knowledge (drug development, natural products, and the food metabolome) with developments in artificial intelligence to design and then test dietary patterns predicted to elicit drug-like effects on target tissues for cancer prevention and control. We refer to this precision approach as dietary oncopharmacognosy and envision it as the crosswalk between the currently defined fields of precision oncology and precision nutrition with the goal of reducing cancer deaths.
Effects of Creatine Supplementation on the Myostatin Pathway and Myosin Heavy Chain Isoforms in Different Skeletal Muscles of Resistance-Trained Rats
Authors: de Carvalho Marianna Rabelo , Duarte Ellen Fernandes , Mendonça Maria Lua Marques , de Morais Camila Souza , Ota Gabriel Elias , Gaspar-Junior Jair José , de Oliveira Filiú Wander Fernando , Damatto Felipe Cesar , Okoshi Marina Politi , Okoshi Katashi , Oliveira Rodrigo Juliano , Martinez Paula Felippe , de Oliveira-Junior Silvio Assis
Published: May 2023

Creatine has been used to maximize resistance training effects on skeletal muscles, including muscle hypertrophy and fiber type changes. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of creatine supplementation on the myostatin pathway and myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoforms in the slow- and fast-twitch muscles of resistance-trained rats. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: a sedentary control (Cc), sedentary creatine supplementation (Cr), resistance training (Tc), and resistance training combined with creatine supplementation (Tcr). Cc and Tc received standard commercial chow; Cr and Tcr received a 2% creatine-supplemented diet. Tc and Tcr performed a resistance training protocol on a ladder for 12 weeks. Morphology, MyHC isoforms, myostatin, follistatin, and ActRIIB protein expressions were analyzed in soleus and white gastrocnemius portion samples. The results were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test. Tc and Tcr exhibited higher performance than their control counterparts. Resistance training increased the ratio between muscle and body weight, the cross-sectional area, as well as the interstitial collagen fraction. Resistance training alone increased MyHC IIx and follistatin while reducing myostatin (p < 0.001) and ActRIIB (p = 0.040) expressions in the gastrocnemius. Resistance training induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy and interstitial remodeling, which are more evident in the gastrocnemius muscle. The effects were not impacted by creatine supplementation.
New Challenges and Prospective Applications of Three-Dimensional Bioactive Polymeric Hydrogels in Oral and Craniofacial Tissue Engineering: A Narrative Review
Authors: Atia Gamal Abdel Nasser , Shalaby Hany K. , Ali Naema Goda , Morsy Shaimaa Mohammed , Ghobashy Mohamed Mohamady , Attia Hager Abdel Nasser , Barai Paritosh , Nady Norhan , Kodous Ahmad S. , Barai Hasi Rani
Published: May 2023

Regenerative medicine, and dentistry offers enormous potential for enhancing treatment results and has been fueled by bioengineering breakthroughs over the previous few decades. Bioengineered tissues and constructing functional structures capable of healing, maintaining, and regenerating damaged tissues and organs have had a broad influence on medicine and dentistry. Approaches for combining bioinspired materials, cells, and therapeutic chemicals are critical in stimulating tissue regeneration or as medicinal systems. Because of its capacity to maintain an unique 3D form, offer physical stability for the cells in produced tissues, and replicate the native tissues, hydrogels have been utilized as one of the most frequent tissue engineering scaffolds during the last twenty years. Hydrogels’ high water content can provide an excellent conditions for cell viability as well as an architecture that mimics real tissues, bone, and cartilage. Hydrogels have been used to enable cell immobilization and growth factor application. This paper summarizes the features, structure, synthesis and production methods, uses, new challenges, and future prospects of bioactive polymeric hydrogels in dental and osseous tissue engineering of clinical, exploring, systematical and scientific applications.
Gas6/Axl Axis Activation Dampens the Inflammatory Response in Osteoarthritic Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes and Synovial Explants
Authors: Vago Juliana P. , Valdrighi Natália , Blaney-Davidson Esmeralda N. , Hornikx Daniel L. A. H. , Neefjes Margot , Barba-Sarasua María E. , Thielen Nathalie G. M. , van den Bosch Martijn H. J. , van der Kraan Peter M. , Koenders Marije I. , Amaral Flávio A. , van de Loo Fons A. J.
Published: May 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent joint disease, and it is characterized by cartilage degeneration, synovitis, and bone sclerosis, resulting in swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. TAM receptors (Tyro3, Axl, and Mer) play an important role in regulating immune responses, clearing apoptotic cells, and promoting tissue repair. Here, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of a TAM receptor ligand, i.e., growth arrest-specific gene 6 (Gas6), in synovial fibroblasts from OA patients. TAM receptor expression was determined in synovial tissue. Soluble Axl (sAxl), a decoy receptor for the ligand Gas6, showed concentrations 4.6 times higher than Gas6 in synovial fluid of OA patients. In OA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (OAFLS) exposed to inflammatory stimuli, the levels of sAxl in the supernatants were increased, while the expression of Gas6 was downregulated. In OAFLS under TLR4 stimulation by LPS (Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide), the addition of exogenous Gas6 by Gas6-conditioned medium (Gas6-CM) reduced pro-inflammatory markers including IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, CCL2, and CXCL8. Moreover, Gas6-CM downregulated IL-6, CCL2, and IL-1β in LPS-stimulated OA synovial explants. Pharmacological inhibition of TAM receptors by a pan inhibitor (RU301) or by a selective Axl inhibitor (RU428) similarly abrogated Gas6-CM anti-inflammatory effects. Mechanistically, Gas6 effects were dependent on Axl activation, determined by Axl, STAT1, and STAT3 phosphorylation, and by the downstream induction of the suppressors of the cytokine signaling family (SOCS1 and SOCS3). Taken together, our results showed that Gas6 treatment dampens inflammatory markers of OAFLS and synovial explants derived from OA patients associated with SOCS1/3 production.
Diosgenin and Monohydroxy Spirostanol from Prunus amygdalus var amara Seeds as Potential Suppressors of EGFR and HER2 Tyrosine Kinases: A Computational Approach
Authors: Shalayel Mohammed Helmy Faris , Al-Mazaideh Ghassab M. , Alanezi Abdulkareem A. , Almuqati Afaf F. , Alotaibi Meshal
Published: May 2023

Cancer continues to be leading cause of death globally, with nearly 7 million deaths per year. Despite significant progress in cancer research and treatment, there remain several challenges to overcome, including drug resistance, the presence of cancer stem cells, and high interstitial fluid pressure in tumors. To tackle these challenges, targeted therapy, specifically targeting HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2) as well as EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor), is considered a promising approach in cancer treatment. In recent years, phytocompounds have gained recognition as a potential source of chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents in tumor cancer treatment. Phytocompounds are compounds derived from medicinal plants that have the potential to treat and prevent cancer. This study aimed to investigate phytocompounds from Prunus amygdalus var amara seeds as inhibitors against EGFR and HER2 enzymes using in silico methods. In this study, fourteen phytocompounds were isolated from Prunus amygdalus var amara seeds and subjected to molecular docking studies to determine their ability to bind to EGFR and HER2 enzymes. The results showed that diosgenin and monohydroxy spirostanol exhibited binding energies comparable to those of the reference drugs, tak-285, and lapatinib. Furthermore, the drug-likeness and ADMET predictions, performed using the admetSAR 2.0 web-server tool, suggested that diosgenin and monohydroxy spirostanol have similar safety and ADMET properties as the reference drugs. To get deeper insight into the structural steadiness and flexibility of the complexes formed between these compounds and theEGFR and HER2 proteins, molecular dynamics simulations were performed for 100 ns. The results showed that the hit phytocompounds did not significantly affect the stability of the EGFR and HER2 proteins and were able to form stable interactions with the catalytic binding sites of the proteins. Additionally, the MM-PBSA analysis revealed that the binding free energy estimates for diosgenin and monohydroxy spirostanol is comparable to the reference drug, lapatinib. This study provides evidence that diosgenin and monohydroxy spirostanol may have the potential to act as dual suppressors of EGFR and HER2. Additional in vivo and in vitro research are needed to certify these results and assess their efficacy and safety as cancer therapy agents. The experimental data reported and these results are in agreement.
Engineering Rapalog-Inducible Genetic Switches Based on Split-T7 Polymerase to Regulate Oncolytic Virus-Driven Production of Tumour-Localized IL-12 for Anti-Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Martin Nikolas T. , Crupi Mathieu J. F. , Taha Zaid , Poutou Joanna , Whelan Jack T. , Vallati Sydney , Petryk Julia , Marius Ricardo , Austin Bradley , Azad Taha , Boulanger Mason , Burgess Tamara , Sanders Ilson , Victoor Camille , Dickinson Bryan C. , Diallo Jean-Simon , Ilkow Carolina S. , Bell John C.
Published: May 2023

The approval of different cytokines as anti-neoplastic agents has been challenged by dose-limiting toxicities. Although reducing dose levels affords improved tolerability, efficacy is precluded at these suboptimal doses. Strategies combining cytokines with oncolytic viruses have proven to elicit potent survival benefits in vivo, despite promoting rapid clearance of the oncolytic virus itself. Herein, we developed an inducible expression system based on a Split-T7 RNA polymerase for oncolytic poxviruses to regulate the spatial and temporal expression of a beneficial transgene. This expression system utilizes approved anti-neoplastic rapamycin analogues for transgene induction. This treatment regimen thus offers a triple anti-tumour effect through the oncolytic virus, the induced transgene, and the pharmacologic inducer itself. More specifically, we designed our therapeutic transgene by fusing a tumour-targeting chlorotoxin (CLTX) peptide to interleukin-12 (IL-12), and demonstrated that the constructs were functional and cancer-selective. We next encoded this construct into the oncolytic vaccinia virus strain Copenhagen (VV-iIL-12mCLTX), and were able to demonstrate significantly improved survival in multiple syngeneic murine tumour models through both localized and systemic virus administration, in combination with rapalogs. In summary, our findings demonstrate that rapalog-inducible genetic switches based on Split-T7 polymerase allow for regulation of the oncolytic virus-driven production of tumour-localized IL-12 for improved anti-cancer immunotherapy.