bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Mystery of EVP4593: Perspectives of the Quinazoline-Derived Compound in the Treatment of Huntington’s Disease and Other Human Pathologies
Authors: Grekhnev Dmitriy A. , Kruchinina Anna A. , Vigont Vladimir A. , Kaznacheyeva Elena V.
Published: December 2022

Quinazoline derivatives have various pharmacological activities and are widely used in clinical practice. Here, we reviewed the proposed mechanisms of the physiological activity of the quinazoline derivative EVP4593 and perspectives for its clinical implication. We summarized the accumulated data about EVP4593 and focused on its activities in different models of Huntington’s disease (HD), including patient-specific iPSCs-based neurons. To make a deeper insight into its neuroprotective role in HD treatment, we discussed the ability of EVP4593 to modulate calcium signaling and reduce the level of the huntingtin protein. Moreover, we described possible protective effects of EVP4593 in other pathologies, such as oncology, cardiovascular diseases and parasite invasion. We hope that comprehensive analyses of the molecular mechanisms of EVP4593 activity will allow for the expansion of the scope of the EVP4593 application.
Construction of a Chitosan/ZnO-Based Light-Resistant Coating System to Protect Dyed Wood from Ultraviolet Irradiation via Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly
Authors: Luo Zhe , Zhang Yang
Published: December 2022

Wood dyeing is an effective way to alleviate the supply-demand imbalance of valuable wood and improve the surface decoration of fast-growing wood. However, applications of dyed wood are limited due to the susceptibility of dyes and wood to photo-discolor and degrade under light irradiation. Thus, the improved weather resistance of dyed wood is crucial. To prevent photochromic discoloration of dyed wood, an anti-photochromic coating structure was constructed via layer-by-layer self-assembly (LbL) using chitosan and zinc oxide (ZnO). The results showed that the surface color difference of treated dyed wood was reduced by approximately 84.6% after the first 2 h of irradiation under the following conditions °C: temperature (50 °C), relative humidity (55%), and irradiation intensity (550 W/m2). However, the color of untreated dyed wood drastically changed at this stage. The reason for the decrease was that the redness and yellowness of treated dye wood were significantly reduced. The deposition of ZnO onto treated dyed wood helped to protect the wood from UV light irradiation. Chitosan bridged the dyes and complexed ZnO to enhance UV resistance. This study provides valuable information for the protection of dyed wood against light discoloration that can be used as an interior and exterior decorative material.
The Influence of Lifestyle and Treatment on Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Diabetes
Authors: Wronka Magdalena , Krzemińska Julia , Młynarska Ewelina , Rysz Jacek , Franczyk Beata
Published: December 2022

Diabetes is considered a new pandemic of the modern world, and the number of sufferers is steadily increasing. Sustained hyperglycemia promotes the production of free radicals and leads to persistent, low-grade inflammation. Oxidative stress causes mitochondrial destruction, which along with activation of the hexosamine pathway, nuclear factor-κB (Nf-κb), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), c-jun NH2 terminal kinase/stress-activated protein kinase (JNK/SAPK) or toll-like receptors (TLRs), leads to pancreatic β-cell dysfunction. However, there is also the protective mechanism that counteracts oxidative stress and inflammation in diabetes, mitophagy, which is a mitochondrial autophagy. An important part of the strategy to control diabetes is to lead a healthy lifestyle based on, among other things, regular physical activity, giving up smoking, eating a balanced diet containing ingredients with antioxidant potential, including vegetables and fruits, and using hypoglycemic pharmacotherapy. Tobacco smoke is a recognized modifiable risk factor for many diseases including diabetes, and it has been shown that the risk of the disease increases in proportion to the intensity of smoking. Physical activity as another component of therapy can effectively reduce glucose fluctuations, and high intensity interval exercise appears to have the most beneficial effect. A proper diet not only increases cellular sensitivity to insulin, but is also able to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Pharmacotherapy for diabetes can also affect oxidative stress and inflammation. Some oral drugs, such as metformin, pioglitazone, vildagliptin, liraglutide, and exenatide, cause a reduction in markers of oxidative stress and/or inflammation, while the new drug Imeglimin reverses pancreatic β-cell dysfunction. In studies of sitagliptin, vildagliptin and exenatide, beneficial effects on oxidative stress and inflammation were achieved by, among other things, reducing glycemic excursions. For insulin therapy, no corresponding correlation was observed. Insulin did not reduce oxidative stress parameters. There was no correlation between glucose variability and oxidative stress in patients on insulin therapy. The data used in this study were obtained by searching PubMed online databases, taking into account recent studies.
Targeting PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway as a Radiosensitization in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Su Yu-Chieh , Lee Wei-Chang , Wang Chih-Chun , Yeh Shyh-An , Chen Wen-Hui , Chen Po-Jen
Published: December 2022

Globally, there are over half a million new patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) every year. The current therapeutic approaches to HNSCC are surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy. These approaches carry a high incidence of metastasis or recurrence from HNSCC cells’ radioresistance. Recent studies have revealed that a combination with radiosensitizers can be used to improve the radioresistance in HNSCC; however, few agents are approved as radiosensitizers. The constitutive activation of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is a vitally oncogenic type of signaling that promotes tumorigenesis, metastasis, and radiotherapy resistance in HNSCC. Pharmacological targeting of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is considered a promising strategy of radiosensitization in HNSCC. In this review, we summarize the oncogenic significance of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling in HNSCC with radiotherapy resistance and highlight the therapeutic potential of small molecule inhibitors against PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling for the radiosensitization in HNSCC treatment. It provides a mechanistic framework for the development of new drugs for radiosensitization in HNSCC radiotherapy via targeting PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.
Ultrasensitive Detection of Multidrug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Using SuperSelective Primer-Based Real-Time PCR Assays
Authors: Narang Anshika , Marras Salvatore A. E. , Kurepina Natalia , Chauhan Varsha , Shashkina Elena , Kreiswirth Barry , Varma-Basil Mandira , Vinnard Christopher , Subbian Selvakumar
Published: December 2022

The emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis is a significant global health issue. The presence of heteroresistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis is critical to developing fully drug-resistant tuberculosis cases. The currently available molecular techniques may detect one copy of mutant bacterial genomic DNA in the presence of about 1–1000 copies of wild-type M. tuberculosis DNA. To improve the limit of heteroresistance detection, we developed SuperSelective primer-based real-time PCR assays, which, by their unique assay design, enable selective and exponential amplification of selected point mutations in the presence of abundant wild-type DNA. We designed SuperSelective primers to detect genetic mutations associated with M. tuberculosis resistance to the anti-tuberculosis drugs isoniazid and rifampin. We evaluated the efficiency of our assay in detecting heteroresistant M. tuberculosis strains using genomic DNA isolated from laboratory strains and clinical isolates from the sputum of tuberculosis patients. Results show that our assays detected heteroresistant mutations with a specificity of 100% in a background of up to 104 copies of wild-type M. tuberculosis genomic DNA, corresponding to a detection limit of 0.01%. Therefore, the SuperSelective primer-based RT-PCR assay is an ultrasensitive tool that can efficiently diagnose heteroresistant tuberculosis in clinical specimens and contributes to understanding the drug resistance mechanisms. This approach can improve the management of antimicrobial resistance in tuberculosis and other infectious diseases.
Nest Ecology and Prey Preference of the Mud Dauber Wasp Sceliphron formosum (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae)
Authors: Yuan David , Beckman Juliey , Florez Fernandez Jaime , Rodriguez Juanita
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Sceliphron is a genus of sphecid wasps that build mud nests for reproduction. These wasps prey exclusively on spiders, and commonly inhabit human constructions. The nesting behaviour and prey selection of many Sceliphron species are well studied, but despite being a common insect in urban areas, Sceliphron formosum has never been comprehensively studied. (2) Methods: In this study, over 650 mud nests of S. formosum were collected, analysed and examined to establish prey preference, nest ecology and interspecific interactions. Prey preference was evaluated in terms of abundance, diversity and morphology. Preference in terms of morphology was estimated using body length to leg span ratio (BLR). (3) Results: S. formosum largely preys on ground-hunting spiders, among which Salticidae represented the most collected prey. In terms of prey size, S. formosum captures prey with a large BLR. Moreover, an unexpected discovery showed that the enclosed mud nests provide a micro niche that supports a wide variety of insects. Sixteen families and 23 species of insects were found associated with the use of mud nests, comprising the insect orders Hymenoptera, Diptera and Coleoptera. These included important pollinators, new species and native species not recorded in the past 20 years of mud dauber wasp research. We propose the potential of S. formosum as a keystone species, due to its ability to provide a micro niche for native species in urban areas. We also discuss how these results contribute to our knowledge on the role of insects in urban ecosystems and their significance in relation to conservation, ecology and biodiversity studies.
Effects of Antirheumatic Treatment on Cell Cholesterol Efflux and Loading Capacity of Serum Lipoproteins in Spondylarthropathies
Authors: Hokstad Ingrid , Greco Daniela , Deyab Gia , Fagerland Morten Wang , Agewall Stefan , Hjeltnes Gunnbjørg , Zimetti Francesca , Bernini Franco , Ronda Nicoletta , Hollan Ivana
Published: December 2022

Spondyloarthropathies (SpA) are associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Among possible mechanisms is the dysfunction of serum lipoproteins in regulating cell cholesterol homeostasis. Cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC)—the atheroprotective ability of HDL (high density lipoproteins) to accept cholesterol from macrophages—might predict cardiovascular disease independently of HDL-cholesterol levels. We aimed at evaluating modifications of CEC and of the atherogenic cholesterol loading capacity (CLC) of serum lipoproteins in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) following anti-rheumatic treatment. A total of 62 SpA patients (37 PsA and 25 AS) were evaluated before and after treatment with tumor necrosis factor inhibitor and/or methotrexate. CEC and CLC were measured by radioisotopic and fluorometric techniques, respectively. Endothelial function was assessed by finger plethysmography (Endopat). In the whole SpA group, total and HDL-cholesterol increased after treatment, while lipoprotein(a) decreased and CLC was unchanged. Treatment was associated with increased Scavenger Receptor class B type I (SR-BI)-mediated CEC in the AS group. SR-BI- and ABCG1-mediated CEC were negatively associated with inflammatory parameters and positively related to coffee consumption. SR-BI CEC and CLC were positively and negatively associated with endothelial function, respectively. Our pilot study suggests that anti-rheumatic treatment is associated with favorable modulation of lipoprotein quality and function in SpA, particularly in AS, in spite of the induced increase in total cholesterol levels. If confirmed in a larger population, this might represent an atheroprotective benefit beyond what is reflected by conventional serum lipid profile.
Re-Epithelialization of Neuropathic Diabetic Foot Wounds with the Use of Cryopreserved Allografts of Human Epidermal Keratinocyte Cultures (Epifast)
Authors: Martinez-De Jesús Fermin R. , Frykberg Robert , Zambrano-Loaiza Elízabeth , Jude Edward B.
Published: December 2022

The application of tissue-engineering technology to wound healing has become an option for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). A comparative, prospective study was conducted to assess the efficacy of a cryopreserved allograft of human epidermal keratinocytes (Epifast) to enhance wound healing in granulating DFU. Eighty patients were assigned to receive Epifast (n = 40) or Standard Care (SC) treatment (n = 40). The Epifast group displayed a shorter duration of the epithelialization phase (3.5 ± 4 vs. 6.4 ± 3.6 weeks, p < 0.05) and upon the entire wound healing process than the SC group (10 ± 5.7 vs. 14.5 ± 8.9 weeks, p < 0.05), reaching wound closure at 16 and 30 weeks, respectively. The Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that Epifast group patients were 50% more likely than the SC to heal wounds faster (Cox-hazards ratio of 0.5, 95% CI = 0.3–0.8, p < 0.0001; Likelihood Ratio of 7.8. p < 0.05). Patients in the control group displayed a slower healing as the Saint Elian (SEWSS) severity grade increased (group differences of 0.6, 3.8, and 4.3 weeks for grades I, II, and III, respectively). DFW treated with Epifast displayed a shorter time to complete re-epithelialization than wounds treated with standard care.
Efficacy of Visual Feedback Training for Motor Recovery in Post-Operative Subjects with Knee Replacement: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Carozzo Simone , Vatrano Martina , Coschignano Francesco , Battaglia Riccardo , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore , Pignolo Loris , Contrada Marianna , Tonin Paolo , Cerasa Antonio , Demeco Andrea
Published: December 2022

To evaluate the effects of visual feedback training on motor recovery in postoperative patients with a total knee replacement (TKR). The performance of 40 first-ever TKR patients (27 females; mean age: 70.5 (67.2–74.0) years) was evaluated in a single center, single-blind, randomized controlled study. The patients were randomly and equally distributed into two demographically/clinically matched groups undergoing experimental or traditional treatments. All patients have been treated in a 1 h session, 2/day for 5 days a week, for six consecutive weeks. The first group (“control”) underwent conventional physical therapy, whereas the experimental group received advanced knee training with visual feedback using the TecnoBody® device (Walker View 3.0 SCX, Dalmine (BG), Italy). The clinical scales and kinematic parameters coming from the gait analysis were evaluated to demonstrate the dynamic balance function in a standing position before and after each treatment. After the treatment, both experimental and control groups improved significantly and similarly, as measured by the clinical scales (Numeric Rating Scale for Pain and Barthel index). A significant boosting of the motor performance was detected in the experimental group with respect to the control group in the terms of symmetry index 84 (80.8–85.4) vs. 87.15 (84–92.8) p = 0.001 *; single stance support 34.9 (34.1–36.5) vs. 37.8 (36.6–38.9); p < 0.001; and obliquity parameters 58.65 (51.3–70.3) vs. 73 (62.3–82.1); p < 0.001. Applying visual feedback training in addition to traditional rehabilitation strategies improves the knee function and motor control in postoperative TKR patients.
Acute and Long-Term Cardiovascular Complications among Patients with Sepsis and Septic Shock
Authors: Merdji Hamid , Siegemund Martin , Meziani Ferhat
Published: December 2022

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection and is the leading cause of death within intensive care units (ICUs) [...]
Electrocardiogram, Echocardiogram and NT-proBNP in Screening for Thromboembolism Pulmonary Hypertension in Patients after Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Dzikowska-Diduch Olga , Kurnicka Katarzyna , Lichodziejewska Barbara , Dudzik-Niewiadomska Iwona , Machowski Michał , Roik Marek , Wiśniewska Małgorzata , Siwiec Jan , Staniszewska Izabela Magdalena , Pruszczyk Piotr
Published: December 2022

Background: The annual mortality of patients with untreated chronic thromboembolism pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is approximately 50% unless a timely diagnosis is followed by adequate treatment. In pulmonary embolism (PE) survivors with functional limitation, the diagnostic work-up starts with echocardiography. It is followed by lung scintigraphy and right heart catheterization. However, noninvasive tests providing diagnostic clues to CTEPH, or ascertaining this diagnosis as very unlikely, would be extremely useful since the majority of post PE functional limitations are caused by deconditioning. Methods: Patients after acute PE underwent a structured clinical evaluation with electrocardiogram, routine laboratory tests including NT-proBNP and echocardiography. The aim of this study was to verify whether the parameters from echocardiographic or perhaps electrocardiographic examination and NT-proBNP concentration best determine the risk of CTEPH. Results: Out of the total number of patients (n = 261, male n = 123) after PE who were included in the study, in the group of 155 patients (59.4%) with reported functional impairment, 13 patients (8.4%) had CTEPH and 7 PE survivors had chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease (CTEPD) (4.5%). Echo parameters differed significantly between CTEPH/CTEPD cases and other symptomatic PE survivors. Patients with CTEPH/CTEPD also had higher levels of NT-proBNP (p = 0.022) but concentration of NT-proBNP above 125 pg/mL did not differentiate patients with CTEPH/CTEPD (p > 0.05). Additionally, the proportion of patients with right bundle brunch block registered in ECG was higher in the CTEPH/CTED group (23.5% vs. 5.8%, p = 0.034) but there were no differences between the other ECG characteristics of right ventricle overload. Conclusions: Screening for CTEPH/CTEPD should be performed in patients with reduced exercise tolerance compared to the pre PE period. It is not effective in asymptomatic PE survivors. Patients with CTEPH/CTED predominantly had abnormalities indicating chronic thromboembolism in the echocardiographic assessment. NT-proBNP and electrocardiographic characteristics of right ventricle overload proved to be insufficient in predicting CTEPH/CTEPD development.
Comparison of Surgical Outcomes of Robotic versus Conventional Laparoscopic Hysterectomy of Large Uterus with Gynecologic Benign Disease
Authors: Jeong Soo Young , Kim Kyoungseon , Ryu Ji Won , Cha Jieum , Park Sung Taek , Park Sung Ho
Published: December 2022

Hysterectomy is commonly performed for benign gynecological diseases. Minimally invasive surgical approaches offer several advantages. Unfortunately, few studies have compared the outcomes of different types of minimally invasive surgeries. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the surgical outcomes of robotic hysterectomy (RH) and conventional laparoscopic hysterectomy (CLH) in benign gynecologic diseases. We performed a retrospective cohort study at a single center between January 2014 and July 2022. A total of 397 patients (RH: 197 and CLH: 200) who underwent minimally invasive hysterectomy for benign diseases with uterine size exceeding 250 g were enrolled, and factors related to the surgical outcomes were compared. The median age was 46 (range, 35–74) years, and the median uterine weight was 400 (range, 250–2720) g. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding age, body mass index, uterine weight, hospital stay, estimated blood loss, or operating time. Intraoperative and postoperative complication rates were not significantly different between the two groups. RH was not inferior to CLH in terms of perioperative and immediate postoperative outcomes in our study.
Io as Isis: A Lycophronean Myth in Nonnus
Authors: Magnolo Arianna
Published: December 2022

This article aims to examine one of the myths belonging to the first part of Nonnus’ Dionysiaca, i.e., that of Io. Starting from the philological analysis of the passages dealing with this myth and adopting an intertextual approach, I will argue that the Panopolitan assimilates Io to Isis following Lycophron, one of the authors employed as a model in his poem. Finally, I will also explain the meaning of this choice inside Nonnus’ work, taking into account its historical context. Nonnus wants to emphasize the role of Dionysus’ lineage in the civilization process, giving it an historical relevance. Therefore, the allusion to Lycophron assimilates Cadmus (Dionysus’ grandfather) to Alexander the Great, who is celebrated as a peacemaker in the Alexandra. Furthermore, Cadmus and his offspring can be connected to the Romans, who, at the time of Nonnus, played the same role in the rising Byzantine empire.
Conus regius-Derived Conotoxins: Novel Therapeutic Opportunities from a Marine Organism
Authors: Margiotta Francesco , Micheli Laura , Ciampi Clara , Ghelardini Carla , McIntosh J. Michael , Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo
Published: December 2022

Conus regius is a marine venomous mollusk of the Conus genus that captures its prey by injecting a rich cocktail of bioactive disulfide bond rich peptides called conotoxins. These peptides selectively target a broad range of ion channels, membrane receptors, transporters, and enzymes, making them valuable pharmacological tools and potential drug leads. C. regius-derived conotoxins are particularly attractive due to their marked potency and selectivity against specific nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes, whose signalling is involved in pain, cognitive disorders, drug addiction, and cancer. However, the species-specific differences in sensitivity and the low stability and bioavailability of these conotoxins limit their clinical development as novel therapeutic agents for these disorders. Here, we give an overview of the main pharmacological features of the C. regius-derived conotoxins described so far, focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying their potential therapeutic effects. Additionally, we describe adoptable chemical engineering solutions to improve their pharmacological properties for future potential clinical translation.
Solvent–Solute Interaction Effect on Permeation Flux through Forward Osmosis Membranes Investigated by Non-Equilibrium Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Higuchi Hayato , Miyagawa Masaya , Takaba Hiromitsu
Published: December 2022

The relationship between the solvent–solute interaction and permeation properties is fundamental in the development of the forward osmosis (FO) membrane. In this study, we report on the quantitative reproduction of the permeation flux, which has different solvent–solute interactions, through the modeled FO membrane by non-equilibrium molecular dynamics (NEMD). The interaction effect was investigated by changing the interatomic interaction between the solute and the solvent. The calculated permeation through the semi-permeable modeled FO membrane, in which the interaction between solvent and solution is equal to that between solutions, was consistent with the theoretical curve derived from the combination of the permeation flux and Van’t Hoff equations. These results validate the NEMD for the evaluation of permeation in FO. On the other hand, the permeation is much derived from the theoretical values when the interaction between the solvent and solute atoms is relatively large. However, the simulated permeation was consistent with the theoretical curve, correcting the solution concentration by the coordination number of the solvent atoms to the solute atoms. Our results imply that permeation flux through the FO membrane is significantly changed by the interaction between the solute and the solvent and can be theoretically predicted by calculating the coordination number of the solvent to the solute, which can be readily estimated by equilibrium molecular dynamics simulation.
Molecular Modeling of Cardiac Sodium Channel with Mexiletine
Authors: Zhorov Boris S.
Published: December 2022

A sodium channel blocker mexiletine (MEX) is used to treat chronic pain, myotonia and some arrhythmias. Mutations in the pore domain (PD) of voltage-gated sodium channels differently affect tonic block (TB) and use-dependent block (UDB) by MEX. Previous studies identified several MEX-sensing residues in the hNav1.5 channel and demonstrated that the channel block by MEX increases with activation of the voltage-sensing domain III (VSDIII), whereas MEX stabilizes the activated state of VSDIII. Structural rationales for these observations are unclear. Here, Monte Carlo (MC) energy minimizations were used to dock MEX and its more potent analog, Thio-Me2, into the hNav1.5 cryo-EM structure with activated VSDs and presumably inactivated PD. Computations yielded two ensembles of ligand binding poses in close contacts with known MEX-sensing residues in helices S6III, S6IV and P1IV. In both ensembles, the ligand NH3 group approached the cation-attractive site between backbone carbonyls at the outer-pore bottom, while the aromatic ring protruded ether into the inner pore (putative UDB pose) or into the III/IV fenestration (putative TB pose). In silico deactivation of VSDIII shifted helices S4–S5III, S5III, S6III and S6IV and tightened the TB site. In a model with activated VSDIII and three resting VSDs, MC-minimized energy profile of MEX pulled from the TB site towards lipids shows a deep local minimum due to interactions with 11 residues in S5III, P1III, S6III and S6IV. The minimum may correspond to an interim binding site for MEX in the hydrophobic path to the TB site along the lipid-exposed sides of repeats III and IV where 15 polar and aromatic residues would attract cationic blockers. The study explains numerous experimental data and suggests the mechanism of allosteric modification of the MEX binding site by VSDIII.
Forward Osmosis Technology and Its Application on Microbial Fuel Cells: A Review
Authors: Zhao Yang , Duan Liang , Liu Xiang , Song Yonghui
Published: December 2022

As a new membrane technology, forward osmosis (FO) has aroused more and more interest in the field of wastewater treatment and recovery in recent years. Due to the driving force of osmotic pressure rather than hydraulic pressure, FO is considered as a low pollution process, thus saving costs and energy. In addition, due to the high rejection rate of FO membrane to various pollutants, it can obtain higher quality pure water. Recovering valuable resources from wastewater will transform wastewater management from a treatment focused to sustainability focused strategy, creating the need for new technology development. An innovative treatment concept which is based on cooperation between bioelectrochemical systems and forward osmosis has been introduced and studied in the past few years. Bioelectrochemical systems can provide draw solute, perform pre-treatment, or reduce reverse salt flux to help with FO operation; while FO can achieve water recovery, enhance current generation, and supply energy sources for the operation of bioelectrochemical systems. This paper reviews the past research, describes the principle, development history, as well as quantitative analysis, and discusses the prospects of OsMFC technology, focusing on the recovery of resources from wastewater, especially the research progress and existing problems of forward osmosis technology and microbial fuel cell coupling technology. Moreover, the future development trends of this technology were prospected, so as to promote the application of forward osmosis technology in sewage treatment and resource synchronous recovery
Spinning of Polysulfone Hollow Fiber Membranes Using Constant Dope Solution Composition: Viscosity Control via Temperature
Authors: Matveev Dmitry , Borisov Ilya , Vasilevsky Vladimir , Karpacheva Galina , Volkov Vladimir
Published: December 2022

The dope solution viscosity is an important parameter that largely determines the properties of hollow fiber membranes. In the literature available today, the change in viscosity is carried out only by changing the quantitative and/or qualitative dope solution compositions. However, such an important spinning parameter as temperature should significantly affect the dope solution viscosity. For the first time, the influence of the dope solution viscosity of a constant composition on polysulfone hollow fiber membrane properties was studied. The hollow fiber membranes were obtained by the phase separation method induced by a non-solvent (NIPS). The change in the dope solution temperature was carried out in the temperature range of 17–27 °C, providing a dope solution viscosity range of 34.3–21.6 Pa∙s. This work shows that even in such a narrow temperature range, the properties of polysulfone hollow fiber membranes change significantly. With a decrease in the viscosity in this temperature range, the wall thickness of the hollow fiber membrane decreases by 2.8 times; the permeance for the individual gases He and CO2 increases by 1.6–1.8 times, respectively; the ideal selectivity decreases by 1.12 times; the mean flow pore size increases by 1.63 times; and the surface porosity increases about 3 times.
The Effect of Interrupted Homogenization on β-Al5FeSi → α-Alx (Fe and Mn) Si Transformation in the A6063 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Aguilar Isaí Galindo , Torres Jesús Torres , Valdés Alfredo Flores , Saldivar Alfredo Alan Flores
Published: December 2022

The aluminum alloys corresponding to the 6000 series are mainly manufactured by mechanical forming processes. Their properties are enhanced by the homogeneous distribution of intermetallic phases such as β-Al5FeSi or α-Alx (Fe, Mn) Si. By thermal homogenization treatment, the intermetallic compound β-Al5FeSi changes its morphology from a needle type with a monoclinic structure to an acicular form known as α-Al12(Fe, Mn)3Si with an fcc structure. In the present study, samples of the 6063 alloy were subjected to different temperatures of homogenization (798, 823, and 848 K) and treatment times from 0 to 660 min (in intervals of 30 min) to evaluate their effects on the microstructures and morphologies of the intermetallic phases. For the kinetic study, the microstructures of the β and α intermetallic phases were quantified using the Image-Pro software. The results indicate that as the temperature and homogenization time increase, the percentage of phase α also increments. The results of the kinetic analysis revealed that the β → α transformation is controlled by two stages; the first corresponds to the diffusion of Mn atoms from the matrix to the interface of reaction for the formation of the intermetallic phases, while the second corresponds to the nucleation and growth of the iron- and manganese-rich intermetallic phases.
The Mechanical Properties, Structural Stability and Thermal Conductivities of Y, Sc Doped AuIn2 by First−Principles Calculations
Authors: Li Deshuai , Lu Jinkang , Duan Yonghua , Qi Huarong , Peng Mingjun , Yu Jie
Published: December 2022

In this paper, based on density functional theory, the structural stability and mechanical properties of AuIn2 doped with RE (RE = Y, Sc) were investigated. The bulk modulus, shear modulus, Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio of the materials were calculated by Viogt−Reuss−Hill approximation. The calculation results show that Sc−SAu (trace of Au substituted by Sc in AuIn2), Y−SAu and Y−SIn have stable structure, and Y−SAu has obvious effect on the toughness indexes of AuIn2 alloy. Furthermore, based on Clarke and Cahill modes, the lattice thermal conductivity of the intermetallic compound was calculated and shows the same tendency with the Debye temperature and fast heat transfer rate in the direction of [110].
Tailoring the Pore Structure of Porous Ni-Sn Alloys for Boosting Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Alkali Solution
Authors: Yang Junsheng , Li Jie , Wang Ying , Dong Shijie , Fan Yiquan , Liu Wenkang , Kuang Yijian , Tan Siwei , Xiao Gan , Wang Baogang , Yu Zhensen
Published: December 2022

Ni-based alloy is an ideal candidate for its application in the field of hydrogen evolution of water splitting due to its good durability, excellent catalytic properties and low hydrogen evolution overpotential. In this paper, porous Ni-Sn alloy materials were prepared by activation reaction sintering, and the pore structure was tailored by adjusting Sn content. The effects of Sn content and electrolyte temperature on the hydrogen evolution properties of porous Ni-Sn alloy electrodes in 6 mol·L−1 KOH solution were studied by electrochemical measurement methods, such as cyclic voltammetry (CV) curves, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (ESI) and linear sweep voltammetry, and the mechanism of hydrogen evolution was further discussed. The experimental results reveal that when Sn content is 45 wt%, porous Ni-Sn alloy exhibits the best catalytic performance for hydrogen evolution with a Tafel slope of 164.69 mV·dec−1 and an overpotential of 170 mV. The tested electrode also shows good stability for hydrogen evolution in alkaline solution, and the apparent activation energy calculated at room temperature is 29.645 kJ·mol−1. The catalytic mechanism of hydrogen evolution is as follows: the addition of Sn significantly reduces the dissociation degree of M-H bonds, thereby reducing the overpotential of hydrogen evolution; with the increase of Sn content, the porous Ni-Sn electrode displays a higher electrochemical active surface area (ECSA), which makes porous Ni-Sn alloy exhibit good hydrogen evolution catalytic performance.
Welding Quality Detection for Variable Groove Weldments Based on Infrared Sensor and Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Yu Rongwei , Huang Yong , Qiu Shubiao , Peng Yong , Wang Kehong
Published: December 2022

Connecting a variable groove weldment is always challenging, and it is necessary to monitor the course of the work and optimize the welding process parameters in real time to ensure the final welding forming quality. Welding penetration is an important index to appraise the welding forming quality; the visual sensing method for molten pool is the main method for detecting the weld penetration, but its detection accuracy is affected by the arc light. In this paper, a welding penetration sensing method for variable groove weldments based on the welding temperature field distribution is proposed. Firstly, a set of temperature field measurement system for a weldment is developed by means of an infrared sensor. Secondly, in the direction perpendicular to the welding direction, a linear temperature distribution feature extraction algorithm based on Gaussian fitting is studied; in the direction parallel to the welding direction, the linear temperature distribution feature extraction algorithm based on the thermal cycle parameters is studied, and the feasibility of using the extracted linear temperature distribution features to identify the weld penetration of a variable groove weldment is analyzed. Finally, taking the extracted linear temperature distribution features as input, using an artificial neural network, the prediction model for the welding penetration of a variable groove weldment is established. The experimental results showed that the weld penetration sensing method put forward in this paper can realize high-precision weld penetration sensing and has high reliability, which solves the problem that weld penetration sensing is affected by arc light to a great extent.
Effect of Notch Structure and Notch Bottom Diameter on the Tensile Load of a Certain GH4169 Notch Bolt for a Device for Longitudinal Separation of Fairing
Authors: Wang Xiaoliang , Cui Yunxian , Yuan Tiebing , Wang Xiaowei , Jiang Zenghui
Published: December 2022

The effect of the notch structure and bottom diameter of a GH4169 notch bolt for an explosive separation device used for longitudinal separation of the fairing, and GH4169 strength range on the tensile load was studied by combing simulations with tests. The results show that the V-shaped, arc-shaped and square notch structures can improve the tensile load of the bolt but to a lesser degree in sequence, and the arc-shaped notch structure performs best in terms of tensile load, fracture appearance and shear resistance. In order to meet the design requirements of 14–15.5 KN tensile load for the notch bolt with an arc-shaped structure, four raw material tensile intervals corresponding to the notch bottom diameters were established by using domestic GH4169 grade C cold-drawn bars.
Integrated Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Reveal Metabolic Patterns in Retina of STZ-Induced Diabetic Retinopathy Mouse Model
Authors: Wang Ruonan , Jian Qizhi , Hu Guangyi , Du Rui , Xu Xun , Zhang Fang
Published: December 2022

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), as the leading cause of vision loss in the working-age population, exhibits unique metabolite profiles in human plasma and vitreous. However, those in retina are not fully understood. Here, we utilized liquid and gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry technology to explore metabolite characteristics of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice retina. A total of 145 metabolites differed significantly in diabetic retinas compared with controls. These metabolites are mainly enriched in the Warburg effect, and valine, leucine and isoleucine degradation pathways. To further identify underlying regulators, RNA sequencing was performed to integrate metabolic enzyme alterations with metabolomics in STZ-induced diabetic retina. Retinol metabolism and tryptophan metabolism are the shared pathways enriched by metabolome and transcriptome. Additionally, transcriptomic analysis identified 71 differentially expressed enzyme-related genes including Hk2, Slc7a5, Aldh1a3 and Tph integrated with altered metabolic pathways. In addition, single nucleotide polymorphisms within 6 out of 71 genes are associated with increased diabetes risk. This study lays the foundation for mechanism research and the therapeutic target development of DR.
R Shiny App for the Automated Deconvolution of NMR Spectra to Quantify the Solid-State Forms of Pharmaceutical Mixtures
Authors: Prostko Piotr , Pikkemaat Jeroen , Selter Philipp , Lukaschek Michail , Wechselberger Rainer , Khamiakova Tatsiana , Valkenborg Dirk
Published: December 2022

Bioavailability and chemical stability are important characteristics of drug products that are strongly affected by the solid-state structure of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). In pharmaceutical development and quality control activities, solid-state NMR (ssNMR) has proved to be an excellent tool for the detection and accurate quantification of undesired solid-state forms. To obtain correct quantitative outcomes, the resulting spectrum of an analytical sample should be deconvoluted into the individual spectra of the pure components. However, the ssNMR deconvolution is particularly challenging due to the following: the relatively large line widths that may lead to severe peak overlap, multiple spinning sidebands as a result of applying Magic Angle Spinning (MAS), and highly irregular peak shapes commonly observed in mixture spectra. To address these challenges, we created a tailored and automated deconvolution approach of ssNMR mixture spectra that involves a linear combination modelling (LCM) of previously acquired reference spectra of pure solid-state components. For optimal model performance, the template and mixture spectra should be acquired under the same conditions and experimental settings. In addition to the parameters controlling the contributions of the components in the mixture, the proposed model includes terms for spectral processing such as phase correction and horizontal shifting that are all jointly estimated via a non-linear, constrained optimisation algorithm. Finally, our novel procedure has been implemented in a fully functional and user-friendly R Shiny webtool (hence no local R installation required) that offers interactive data visualisations, manual adjustments to the automated deconvolution results, and the traceability and reproducibility of analyses.
Identification of Biomarkers for Methamphetamine Exposure Time Prediction in Mice Using Metabolomics and Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Sheng Wei , Sun Runbin , Zhang Ran , Xu Peng , Wang Youmei , Xu Hui , Aa Jiye , Wang Guangji , Xie Yuan
Published: December 2022

Methamphetamine (METH) abuse has become a global public health and safety problem. More information is needed to identify the time of drug abuse. In this study, methamphetamine was administered to male C57BL/6J mice with increasing doses from 5 to 30 mg kg−1 (once a day, i.p.) for 20 days. Serum and urine samples were collected for metabolomics studies using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Six machine learning models were used to infer the time of drug abuse and the best model was selected to predict administration time preliminarily. The metabolic changes caused by methamphetamine were explored. As results, the metabolic patterns of methamphetamine exposure mice were quite different from the control group and changed over time. Specifically, serum metabolomics showed enhanced amino acid metabolism and increased fatty acid consumption, while urine metabolomics showed slowed metabolism of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, increased organic acid excretion, and abnormal purine metabolism. Phenylalanine in serum and glutamine in urine increased, while palmitic acid, 5-HT, and monopalmitin in serum and gamma-aminobutyric acid in urine decreased significantly. Among the six machine learning models, the random forest model was the best to predict the exposure time (serum: MAE = 1.482, RMSE = 1.69, R squared = 0.981; urine: MAE = 2.369, RMSE = 1.926, R squared = 0.946). The potential biomarker set containing four metabolites in the serum (palmitic acid, 5-hydroxytryptamine, monopalmitin, and phenylalanine) facilitated the identification of methamphetamine exposure. The random forest model helped predict the methamphetamine exposure time based on these potential biomarkers.
3D Quantitative Metallogenic Prediction of Indium-Rich Ore Bodies in the Dulong Sn-Zn Polymetallic Deposit, Yunnan Province, SW China
Authors: Jia Fuju , Su Zhihong , Nian Hongliang , Yan Yongfeng , Yang Guangshu , Yang Jianyu , Shi Xianwen , Li Shanzhi , Li Lingxiao , Sun Fuzhou , Yang Ceting
Published: December 2022

The southwestern South China Block is one of the most important Sn polymetallic ore districts in the world, of which the Dulong Sn-Zn polymetallic deposit, closely related to Late Cretaceous granitic magmatism, contains 0.4 Mt Sn, 5.0 Mt Zn, 0.2 Mt Pb, and 7 Kt In, and is one of the largest Sn-Zn polymetallic deposits in this region. In this paper, on the basis of a 3D model of ore bodies established by the cut-off grade of the main ore-forming elements, the In grades were estimated by the ordinary Kriging method and the In-rich cells were extracted. The 3D models of strata, faults, granites, and granite porphyries in the mining area were established and assigned the attributes to the cells, which built buffer zones representing the influence space of the geological factors. The weight of evidence and artificial neural network methods were used to quantitatively evaluate the contribution of each geological factor to mineralization. The results show that the Neoproterozoic Xinzhai Formation (Pt3x), fault (F1), and Silurian granites (S3L) have considerable control effects on the occurrence of In-rich ore bodies. The metallogenic predictions according to the spatial coupling relationship of each geological factor in 3D space were carried out, and then the 3D-space-prospecting target areas of In-rich ore bodies were delineated. In addition, the early geological maps and data information of the mining area were comprehensively integrated in 3D space. The feasibility of 3D quantitative metallogenic prediction based on the deposit model was explored by comparing the two methods, and then, the 3D-space prospecting target area was delineated. The ROC curve evaluation shows that the results of two methods have indicative value for prospecting. The modeling results may support its use for future deep prospecting and exploitation of the Dulong and other similar deposits.
Classical Analog and Hybrid Metamaterials of Tunable Multiple-Band Electromagnetic Induced Transparency
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Gao Duorui , Si Jinhai , Meng Jiacheng
Published: December 2022

The electromagnetic induced transparency (EIT) effect originates from the destructive interference in an atomic system, which contributes to the transparency window in its response spectrum. The implementation of EIT requires highly demanding laboratory conditions, which greatly limits its acceptance and application. In this paper, an improved harmonic spring oscillation (HSO) model with four oscillators is proposed as a classical analog for the tunable triple-band EIT effect. A more general HSO model including more oscillators is also given, and the analyses of the power absorption in the HSO model conclude a formula, which is more innovative and useful for the study of the multiple-band EIT effect. To further inspect the analogizing ability of the HSO model, a hybrid unit cell containing an electric dipole and toroidal dipoles in the metamaterials is proposed. The highly comparable transmission spectra based on the HSO model and metamaterials indicate the validity of the classical analog in illustrating the formation process of the multiple-band EIT effect in metamaterials. Hence, the HSO model, as a classical analog, is a valid and powerful theoretical tool that can mimic the multiple-band EIT effect in metamaterials.
Mosaic of Anodic Alumina Inherited from Anodizing of Polycrystalline Substrate in Oxalic Acid
Authors: Kushnir Sergey E. , Kuznetsov Mikhail E. , Roslyakov Ilya V. , Lyskov Nikolay V. , Napolskii Kirill S.
Published: December 2022

The anodizing of aluminium under oscillating conditions is a versatile and reproducible method for the preparation of one-dimensional photonic crystals (PhCs). Many anodizing parameters have been optimised to improve the optical properties of anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) PhCs. However, the influence of the crystallographic orientation of an Al substrate on the characteristics of AAO PhCs has not been considered yet. Here, the effect of Al substrate crystallography on the properties of AAO PhCs is investigated. It is experimentally demonstrated that the cyclic anodizing of coarse-grained aluminium foils produces a mosaic of photonic crystals. The crystallographic orientation of Al grains affects the electrochemical oxidation rate of Al, the growth rate of AAO, and the wavelength position of the photonic band gap.