bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pregnancy Outcomes in SARS-CoV-2-Positive Patients: A 20-Month Retrospective Analysis of Delivery Cases
Authors: Moza Andreea , Bernad Elena , Lungeanu Diana , Craina Marius , Bernad Brenda , Hogea Lavinia , Paul Corina , Muresan Cezara , Nitu Razvan , Iacob Daniela
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives: The SARS-CoV-2 infection brings supplemental risks for pregnant women. Due to controversial hesitancy, their vaccination rate was lower in 2021 compared to the general population. In addition, access to maternal care was reduced during the pandemic. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of the health records data over 20 months (1 April 2020 to 20 November 2021) aiming to explore the outcomes in SARS-CoV-2-positive cases referred for delivery to a tertiary public hospital in Western Romania. Materials and Methods: Women with SARS-CoV-2 infection diagnosed for the first time at the moment of birth who delivered singletons after 24 weeks of gestation, and had a clear immunization status were included in the analysis. Results: Out of the 97 patients included in the study, 35 (36%) had undergone ARN-based vaccination. Five cases of maternal death were recorded (all unvaccinated). Our retrospective exploratory analysis showed that the presence of COVID-19 symptoms in the SARS-CoV-2-positive patients made a significant impact on the delivery hospitalization, with a median hospital stay increase from 5 to 9 days (Mann–Whitney test, p = 0.014): longer hospitalization was recorded in the symptomatic cases irrespective of their vaccination status. No other adverse outcomes, such as gestational age at delivery, C-section rate, 5 min Apgar index, or birth weight were associated with the presence of symptoms. Conclusions: Our clinic maintained safe maternal care for the COVID-19 patients during the analyzed period. Vaccination of the expectant women was beneficial in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients by lowering the risk of COVID-19 symptoms, with subsequent implications on the newborns’ health and maternal attachment.
Tibiotalar and Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis with Paragon28 SilverbackTM Plating System in Patients with Severe Ankle and Hindfoot Deformity
Authors: Perisano Carlo , Cannella Adriano , Polichetti Chiara , Mascio Antonio , Comisi Chiara , De Santis Vincenzo , Caravelli Silvio , Mosca Massimiliano , Spedicato Giorgio Alfredo , Maccauro Giulio , Greco Tommaso
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives: The treatment of end-stage ankle osteoarthritis (OA) and associated hindfoot deformities remains a major challenge for orthopedic surgeons. Numerous techniques and surgical approaches have been proposed for tibiotalar (TT) and tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis, from arthroscopic to open, as well as numerous devices proposed for internal fixation (retrograde intramedullary nails, cannulated screws, and plating systems). The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the results, with at least 18 months of follow-up, with SilverbackTM TT/TTC Plating System Paragon28 in a group of 20 patients with severe OA and hindfoot deformities (mainly secondary post-traumatic OA). Materials and Methods: The demographic characteristics and past medical history of the patients were collected and analyzed to identify the cause of the pathology. The degree of OA and deformity were quantified based on foot and ankle weight-bearing radiography and CT examination. Pre- and post-operative clinical and functional scores (ROM, VAS, AOFAS, FFI, and SF-36) and radiographic parameters (anterior distal tibial angle, tibiotalar angle, coronal tibiotalar angle, and hindfoot alignment angle) were evaluated. Results: All of the patients showed clinical and radiographic fusion at an average of 14 weeks (range 12–48), with improvement in pain and functional scores, without major surgical complications and/or infections. Conclusions: Despite the limitations of our study, the results with this new plating system showed good results in terms of bone consolidation, post-operative complications, and improvement of pain and quality of life in patients with severe OA and deformities of the ankle and hindfoot.
GO-Based Membranes for Desalination
Authors: Ge Rui , Huo Teng , Gao Zhongyong , Li Jiding , Zhan Xia
Published: February 2023

Graphene oxide (GO), owing to its atomic thickness and tunable physicochemical properties, exhibits fascinating properties in membrane separation fields, especially in water treatment applications (due to unimpeded permeation of water through graphene-based membranes). Particularly, GO-based membranes used for desalination via pervaporation or nanofiltration have been widely investigated with respect to membrane design and preparation. However, the precise construction of transport pathways, facile fabrication of large-area GO-based membranes (GOMs), and robust stability in desalination applications are the main challenges restricting the industrial application of GOMs. This review summarizes the challenges and recent research and development of GOMs with respect to preparation methods, the regulation of GOM mass transfer pathways, desalination performance, and mass transport mechanisms. The review aims to provide an overview of the precise regulation methods of the horizontal and longitudinal mass transfer channels of GOMs, including GO reduction, interlayer cross-linking, intercalation with cations, polymers, or inorganic particles, etc., to clarify the relationship between the microstructure and desalination performance, which may provide some new insight regarding the structural design of high-performance GOMs. Based on the above analysis, the future and development of GOMs are proposed.
Selective Sulfation Roasting for Cobalt and Lithium Extraction from Industrial LCO-Rich Spent Black Mass
Authors: Biswas Jayasree , Ulmala Sofia , Wan Xingbang , Partinen Jere , Lundström Mari , Jokilaakso Ari
Published: February 2023

The extraction of cobalt from secondary resources has become crucial, as cobalt has been identified as a strategically important and critical raw material due to the high risks of supply chain disruptions. In this work, selective sulfation roasting was investigated as a potential recycling strategy to extract cobalt and lithium from an industrial lithium cobalt oxide (LCO)-rich black mass. Additionally, the effect of graphite on metal extraction was studied. In the first set of experiments, the sieved black mass fraction containing both cathode and anode materials was directly roasted in a predetermined composition of gas mixtures of SO2, O2, and Ar for 1 h at 850 °C. The gas composition was determined from Kellogg’s diagram to allow for the selective sulfation of Co and Li. In another set of experiments, the carbon present in the black mass was first removed by roasting the material in Ar for 2 h and then in an Ar and O2 gas mixture for five hours at 600 °C. Afterward, selective sulfation roasting was performed in mixtures of SO2, O2, and Ar gas similar to the previous set of experiments. For comparison, similar experiments were performed at 800 °C. The sulfation roasted black mass was leached in water to study the efficiency of Co extraction into the solution. Interestingly, the presence of carbon was found to be beneficial for Co extraction. The extraction efficiency for the first case (with carbon present in the raw material) was observed to be more than three times higher than in the second case (with carbon removed) for sulfation at 850 °C. The extraction efficiency and purity of the extracted Co were found to be better for higher temperature sulfation roasting conditions due to faster reaction kinetics. It was also found that almost all of the Li could be recovered while extracting Co. The maximum efficiency of the extraction was 99.51% Li and 61.21% Co for roasting under a gas flow of 10% SO2-10% O2-Ar at 850 °C for 60 min. These results suggest that Co and Li can be selectively extracted from the black mass by sulfation roasting pre-treatment followed by leaching in water. In holistic processing, the leach residue can then be further subjected to battery metal processing by state-of-the-art methods.
Enhanced Fatigue Resistance of Nanocrystalline Ni50.8Ti49.2 Wires by Mechanical Training
Authors: Chen Peng , Cai Xiaorong , Min Na , Liu Yunfan , Wang Zhengxiong , Jin Mingjiang , Jin Xuejun
Published: February 2023

In this paper, the fatigue resistance of superelastic NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) wires was improved by combining mechanical training and nanocrystallization. Fatigue tests were performed after mechanical training with a peak stress of 600 MPa for 60 cycles of nanocrystalline (NC) NiTi wires, and the associated microscopic mechanism was investigated by using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and transmission Kikuchi diffraction (TKD). The results showed that stress-controlled training effectively improved the functional stability (the accumulated residual strain decreased by 83.8% in the first 5000 cycles) of NC NiTi SMA wires, as well as increased the average structural fatigue life by 187.4% (from 4538 cycles to 13,040 cycles). TEM observations and TKD results revealed that training-induced dislocations resulted in lattice rotation and preferential grain orientation. The finite element method (FEM) simulation results indicated that the training-induced preferential grain orientation tended to decrease the local stress concentration and strain energy density. Combined with fractography analysis, the uniform deformation caused by mechanical training changed the crack growth mode from multi-regional propagation to single-regional propagation, improving the structural fatigue life.
Corrosion Behavior of High Entropy Alloys and Their Application in the Nuclear Industry—An Overview
Authors: Li Tianrun , Wang Debin , Zhang Suode , Wang Jianqiang
Published: February 2023

With multiple principal components, high entropy alloys (HEAs) have aroused great interest due to their unique microstructures and outstanding properties. Recently, the corrosion behavior of HEAs has become a scientific hotspot in the area of material science and engineering, and HEAs can exhibit good protection against corrosive environments. A comprehensive understanding of the corrosion mechanism of HEAs is important for further design of HEAs with better performance. This paper reviews the corrosion properties and mechanisms of HEAs (mainly Cantor alloy and its variants) in various environments. More crucially, this paper is focused on the influences of composition and microstructure on the evolution of the corrosion process, especially passive film stability and localized corrosion resistance. The corrosion behavior of HEAs as structural materials in nuclear industry applications is emphasized. Finally, based on this review, the possible perspectives for scientific research and engineering applications of HEAs are proposed.
Wear Behavior of Nb Alloyed Gray Cast Iron for Automotive Brake Disc Application
Authors: Tonolini Pietro , Montesano Lorenzo , Pola Annalisa , Bontempi Gianpietro , Gelfi Marcello
Published: February 2023

Gray cast iron (GCI) with a pearlitic matrix and type-A graphite remains the most widely used material in the manufacturing of brake discs. To reduce the environmental impact of disc wear during braking, alternative materials and/or compositions to the standard ones are being studied. In this study, the effect of variation in niobium content (0–0.7 wt%) on microstructure and wear behavior of samples machined from brake discs made of hypoeutectic gray cast iron was investigated. The wear behavior of GCI was examined through pin-on-disc (PoD) wear tests using low-metallic-friction material discs as the counterparts. Microstructural analyses and hardness measurements were also conducted to evaluate the effect of Nb addition on the morphology of graphite, eutectic cells, and distribution of carbides. In addition, the wear mechanisms of different samples were evaluated using scanning electron microscope analysis. The results revealed that adding 0.3% of Nb promotes the highest wear resistance of the alloys.
Study of the Microstructure and Properties of the Butt Joint of Laser-Welded Titanium Alloy with Flux-Cored Wire
Authors: Wang Mingqiu , Fang Naiwen , Sun Laibo , Wu Pengbo , Huang Ruisheng , Xu Kai , Wang Xingxing , Qin Jian , Zhou Zhenzhen , Li Shuai , Su Jinhua , Long Weimin
Published: February 2023

A self-developed Ti-Al-V-Mo system titanium alloy flux-cored wire was used to join the Ti64 titanium alloy plate via laser welding with filler wire. The microstructure and properties of the obtained welded joint were investigated. The results showed the WM (welded metal) of the welded joint consisted mainly of acicular α’ martensite, and the HAZ (heat affected zone) was comprised of a primary αp phase, Widmanstatten, and a few α’ martensite and a residual β phase. The strength and elongation of the welded joint after breaking are equivalent to that of the BM (base metal). The tensile fracture, presenting as a microvoid coalescence ductile fracture, was encompassed by massive shear lips with deep and uniform dimples. The overall microhardness of the welded joint was sequenced as WM > HAZ > BM. In the WM, large-angle grain boundaries with intragranular misorientation greater than 15° accounted for about 84%. By XRD, it was discovered the welded joint was mainly composed of the α’ martensite, with a modest amount of extremely weak multi-angle α phase diffraction peak. The test results showed the designed welding method of titanium flux-cored wire and laser wire filling is suitable for high-quality welding of titanium alloy plate.
Powder Metallurgy: A New Path for Advanced Titanium Alloys in the EU Medical Device Supply Chain
Authors: Lario Femenia Joan , Poler Escoto Raúl , Amigó Borras Vicente
Published: February 2023

New beta titanium alloys are expected to present high mechanical properties with good biocompatibility to meet the demands of next-generation implants. This paper presents an overview of the current European Union titanium supply chain and several metallurgical processes and technologies required to develop the beta-based titanium alloy industry. The thermomechanical process involves manufacturing advanced beta titanium alloys, where cost reduction must involve every step of the entire process. When synergistically combined, powder metallurgical technology, together with a set metallurgical process, can produce advanced materials for the biomedical industry with a low-cost ratio compared to current melting and forging manufacturing routes. We propose a new strategy to increase the role of advanced titanium alloys in the European Union medical device supply chain.
Designing of a Decentralized Pretreatment Line for EOL-LIBs Based on Recent Literature of LIB Recycling for Black Mass
Authors: Premathilake Dilshan Sandaruwan , Botelho Junior Amilton Barbosa , Tenório Jorge Alberto Soares , Espinosa Denise Crocce Romano , Vaccari Mentore
Published: February 2023

The search for global CO2 net zero requires adapting transport vehicles to an electrification system for electric vehicles. In addition, the consumption of electric devices, and consequently batteries, has risen over the years. In order to achieve a circular economy, the spent batteries must be recycled. In this review, the recent literature about Lithium-ion Battery (LIB) recycling was thoroughly examined to propose a decentralized line where different types of LIBs can be pretreated. Different treatment possibilities and segments to include in a common line were identified and discussed. Crushing, density separation, drying, second crushing step, heating with CaO, vibro-sieving, washing and flotation-based separation were distinguished as the best segments to include in the mentioned order. As the conclusion, a new design that can be incorporated in an industrial pretreatment line before metallurgical steps is proposed for recycling of LIBs.
Binary Aluminum Alloys from 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium-based Ionic Liquids for Cathodic Corrosion Protection
Authors: Böttcher Rene , Ispas Adriana , Bund Andreas
Published: February 2023

Aluminum cannot provide continuous cathodic corrosion protection under ambient conditions due to the formation of an insulating oxide layer and therefore it should be alloyed. Binary aluminum alloys with Cr, Zn and Sn from AlCl3/1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([EMIm]Cl) containing CrCl2, ZnCl2 or SnCl2 have been deposited and their morphology and composition were investigated using SEM/EDS. The corrosion behavior of alloys with 2–4 wt% Cr, Zn or Sn was investigated using potentiodynamic polarization in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution, neutral salt spray test (NSS) and environmental exposure (EE). Pure aluminum provides excellent corrosion protection of steel in a chloride-containing environment, but not under ambient conditions. AlCr alloys show poor corrosion protection while AlZn alloys provide excellent corrosion protection in the NSS test and superior cathodic protection in the EE test compared to aluminum. AlSn alloys are highly active at even low tin contents and dissolve rapidly in chloride-containing electrolytes. However, a slightly improved cathodic protection in the EE test compared to pure aluminum has been observed. The results prove the necessity of alloying aluminum to achieve effective cathodic corrosion protection under mild atmospheric conditions.
Influence of Materials on Dry Friction and Wear Performance of Harmonic Reducer Circular Spline
Authors: Hu Guyue , Ge Yi , Wu Tong , Mu Xiaobiao , Ren Fengyao , Shao Zhuhao , Zhang Chaolei
Published: February 2023

Ductile iron and alloy steel are mostly used as the circular spline materials of harmonic reducers. The study of the differences in wear resistance of different circular spline materials is a strong basis for the design of high-precision and long-life harmonic reducers. The dry friction behaviors under room temperature of two ductile iron (low-load SHF and high-load SHG) alloys and steel (40Cr) circular spline materials were studied with a quantitative analysis of the alloy composition, microstructure, hardness and wear resistance. The results showed that the microstructures of SHF, SHG and 40Cr were graphite nodules within a tempered sorbite matrix, graphite nodules within a pearlite matrix and tempered sorbite, respectively. The hardness was inversely proportional to the wear resistance. The wear resistance of ductile iron was better than that of 40Cr, with SHF having the best wear resistance. The microstructure of the SHF and SHG ductile iron had a length of 8.1 μm, 5.9 μm (Ti, V, Mo)/C and Cu/Mg second-phase particles. Compared with tempered sorbite, the self-lubricating layer formed by the graphite nodules can effectively reduce wear. The proportion and average diameter of the SHF graphite were 1.2% and 30.9% higher, respectively, than those of the SHG graphite, providing a higher graphite spalling probability and longer graphite lubrication distance.
A Novel Bird-Shape Broadband Piezoelectric Energy Harvester for Low Frequency Vibrations
Authors: Yu Han , Zhang Xiaofan , Shan Xiaobiao , Hu Liangxing , Zhang Xingxu , Hou Chengwei , Xie Tao
Published: February 2023

This work presents a novel bird-shaped broadband piezoelectric energy harvester based on a two-DOF crossed beam for low-frequency environmental vibrations. The harvester features a cantilever mounted on a double-hinged beam, whose rotating motions effectively diminish its natural frequencies. Numerical simulation based on the finite element method is conducted to analyze the modal shapes and the harmonic response of the proposed harvester. Prototypes are fabricated and experiments are carried out by a testing system, whose results indicate a good agreement with the simulation. The multi-frequency energy harvesting is achieved at the first-, second-, and fifth-order resonances. In particular, the proposed harvester demonstrates the remarkable output characteristics of 9.53 mW and 1.83 mW at frequencies as low as 19.23 HZ and 45.38 Hz, which are superior to the majority of existing energy harvesters. Besides, the influences of key parameters on the harvesting performance are experimentally investigated to optimize the environmental adaptability of the harvester. This work provides a new perspective for efficiently harvesting the low-frequency vibration energy, which can be utilized for supplying power to electronic devices.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Corrosion and Etching at Micro/Nanoscale
Authors: Luciano Giorgio , Norek Małgorzata
Published: February 2023

Micro- and nanoscale corrosion and etching at are important in several fields, from the fabrication of sensors and membranes to investigations of the properties of micro- and nanocomposites [...]
A Genosensor Based on the Modification of a Microcantilever: A Review
Authors: Zhang He , Yang Shuang , Zeng Jian , Li Xin , Chuai Rongyan
Published: February 2023

When the free end of a microcantilever is modified by a genetic probe, this sensor can be used for a wider range of applications, such as for chemical analysis, biological testing, pharmaceutical screening, and environmental monitoring. In this paper, to clarify the preparation and detection process of a microcantilever sensor with genetic probe modification, the core procedures, such as probe immobilization, complementary hybridization, and signal extraction and processing, are combined and compared. Then, to reveal the microcantilever’s detection mechanism and analysis, the influencing factors of testing results, the theoretical research, including the deflection principle, the establishment and verification of a detection model, as well as environmental influencing factors are summarized. Next, to demonstrate the application results of the genetic-probe-modified sensors, based on the classification of detection targets, the application status of other substances except nucleic acid, virus, bacteria and cells is not introduced. Finally, by enumerating the application results of a genetic-probe-modified microcantilever combined with a microfluidic chip, the future development direction of this technology is surveyed. It is hoped that this review will contribute to the future design of a genetic-probe-modified microcantilever, with further exploration of the sensitive mechanism, optimization of the design and processing methods, expansion of the application fields, and promotion of practical application.
Effect of Red Mud Addition on Electrical and Magnetic Properties of Hemp-Derived-Biochar-Containing Epoxy Composites
Authors: Zecchi Silvia , Ruscillo Fabrizio , Cristoforo Giovanni , Bartoli Mattia , Loebsack Griffin , Kang Kang , Piatti Erik , Torsello Daniele , Ghigo Gianluca , Gerbaldo Roberto , Giorcelli Mauro , Berruti Franco , Tagliaferro Alberto
Published: February 2023

Waste stream valorization is a difficult task where the economic and environmental issues must be balanced. The use of complex metal-rich waste such as red mud is challenging due to the wide variety of metal oxides present such as iron, aluminum, and titanium. The simple separation of each metal is not economically feasible, so alternative routes must be implemented. In this study, we investigated the use of red mud mixed with hemp waste to produce biochar with high conductivity and good magnetic properties induced by the reduction of the metal oxides present in the red mud through carbothermal processes occurring during the co-pyrolysis. The resulting biochar enriched with thermally-reduced red mud is used for the preparation of epoxy-based composites that are tested for electric and magnetic properties. The electric properties are investigated under DC (direct current) regime with or without pressure applied and under AC (alternating current) in a frequency range from 0.5 up to 16 GHz. The magnetic measurements show the effective tailoring of hemp-derived biochar with magnetic structures during the co-pyrolytic process.
Research on Interface Bonding Properties of TiAlSiN/WC-Co Doped with Graphene
Authors: Yang Junru , Wang Yan , Lv Hao , Yue Yanping , Li Shulei , Zhu Ran
Published: February 2023

Based on the first-principles method, TiAlSiN/WC-Co interface models with graphene doped into the matrix, coating, and the coating/matrix are constructed. The interface adhesion work is calculated and modeled to study the interface bonding properties from the atomic microscopic point of view. The results show that the interface bonding properties of TiAlSiN/WC-Co can be improved when the matrix is doped with the main surface of intrinsic graphene, and the interface bonding property of TiAlSiNN/WC-Co can be improved when the coating and coating/matrix are doped separately with the main surface of intrinsic graphene or single vacancy defective graphene. Furthermore, the model electronic structures are analyzed. The results show that there exist strong Si/Co and N/Co covalent bonds in the interfaces when the matrix is doped with the main surface of intrinsic graphene, which causes the adhesion work of TiAlSiN/WC/msGR/Co to be greater than that of TiAlSiN/WC-Co. Additionally, when the graphene is doped into the coating, in the interface of TiAlSiN/msGR/TiAlSiNN/WC-Co, there exist strong N/Co covalent bonds that increase the interface adhesion work. Additionally, more charge transfer and orbital hybridization exist in the coating/matrix interface doped with the main surface of intrinsic graphene or single vacancy defective graphene, which explains the essential mechanism that the adhesion work of TiAlSiNN/msGR/WC-Co is greater than that of TiAlSiNN/WC-Co, and the adhesion work of TiAlSiNN/svGR/WC-Co is greater than that of TiAlSiNN/WC-Co.
Investigation of the Effect of Dispersion Medium Parameters on the Aggregative Stability of Selenium Nanoparticles Stabilized with Catamine AB
Authors: Blinov Andrey V. , Maglakelidze David G. , Rekhman Zafar A. , Yasnaya Maria A. , Gvozdenko Alexey A. , Golik Alexey B. , Blinova Anastasiya A. , Kolodkin Maxim A. , Alharbi Naiyf S. , Kadaikunnan Shine , Thiruvengadam Muthu , Shariati Mohammad Ali , Nagdalian Andrey A.
Published: February 2023

This article presents the results of the synthesis of Se NPs stabilized by a quaternary ammonium compound—catamine AB. Se NPs were obtained by chemical reduction in an aqueous medium. In the first stage of this study, the method of synthesis of Se NPs was optimized by a multifactorial experiment. The radius of the obtained samples was studied by dynamic light scattering, and the electrokinetic potential was studied using acoustic and electroacoustic spectrometry. Subsequently, the samples were studied by transmission electron microscopy, and the analysis of the data showed that a bimodal distribution is observed in negatively charged particles, where one fraction is represented by spheres with a diameter of 45 nm, and the second by 1 to 10 nm. In turn, positive Se NPs have a diameter of about 70 nm. In the next stage, the influence of the active acidity of the medium on the stability of Se NPs was studied. An analysis of the obtained data showed that both sols of Se NPs exhibit aggregative stability in the pH range from 2 to 6, while an increase in pH to an alkaline medium is accompanied by a loss of particle stability. Next, we studied the effect of ionic strength on the aggregative stability of Se NPs sols. It was found that negatively charged ions have a significant effect on the particle size of the positive sol of Se NPs, while the particle size of the negative sol is affected by positively charged ions.
A Scalable, Modular Degasser for Passive In-Line Removal of Bubbles from Biomicrofluidic Devices
Authors: Musgrove Hannah B. , Saleheen Amirus , Zatorski Jonathan M. , Arneja Abhinav , Luckey Chance John , Pompano Rebecca R.
Published: February 2023

Bubbles are a common cause of microfluidic malfunction, as they can perturb the fluid flow within the micro-sized features of a device. Since gas bubbles form easily within warm cell culture reagents, degassing is often necessary for biomicrofluidic systems. However, fabrication of a microscale degasser that can be used modularly with pre-existing chips may be cumbersome or challenging, especially for labs not equipped for traditional microfabrication, and current commercial options can be expensive. Here, we address the need for an affordable, accessible bubble trap that can be used in-line for continuous perfusion of organs-on-chip and other microfluidic cultures. We converted a previously described, manually fabricated PDMS degasser to allow scaled up, reproducible manufacturing by commercial machining or fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing. After optimization, the machined and 3D printed degassers were found to be stable for >2 weeks under constant perfusion, without leaks. With a ~140 µL chamber volume, trapping capacity was extrapolated to allow for ~5–20 weeks of degassing depending on the rate of bubble formation. The degassers were biocompatible for use with cell culture, and they successfully prevented bubbles from reaching a downstream microfluidic device. Both degasser materials showed little to no leaching. The machined degasser did not absorb reagents, while the FDM printed degasser absorbed a small amount, and both maintained fluidic integrity from 1 µL/min to >1 mL/min of pressure-driven flow. Thus, these degassers can be fabricated in bulk and allow for long-term, efficient bubble removal in a simple microfluidic perfusion set-up.
Free-Running Single-Photon Detection via GHz Gated InGaAs/InP APD for High Time Resolution and Count Rate up to 500 Mcount/s
Authors: Wu Wen , Shan Xiao , Long Yaoqiang , Ma Jing , Huang Kun , Yan Ming , Liang Yan , Zeng Heping
Published: February 2023

Free-running InGaAs/InP single-photon avalanche photodiodes (SPADs) typically operate in the active-quenching mode, facing the problems of long dead time and large timing jitter. In this paper, we demonstrate a 1-GHz gated InGaAs/InP SPAD with the sinusoidal gating signals asynchronous to the incident pulsed laser, enabling free-running single-photon detection. The photon-induced avalanche signals are quenched within 1 ns, efficiently reducing the SPAD’s dead time and achieving a count rate of up to 500 Mcount/s. However, the timing jitter is measured to be ~168 ps, much larger than that of the SPAD with synchronous gates. We adjust the delay between the gating signals and the incident pulsed laser to simulate the random arrival of the photons, and record the timing jitter, respectively, to figure out the cause of the jitter deterioration. In addition, the effects of the incident laser power and working temperature of the APD on the time resolution have been investigated, broadening the applications of the GHz gated free-running SPAD in laser ranging and imaging, fluorescence spectroscopy detection and optical time-domain reflectometry.
Current Metabolic Engineering Strategies for Photosynthetic Bioproduction in Cyanobacteria
Authors: Satta Alessandro , Esquirol Lygie , Ebert Birgitta E.
Published: February 2023

Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms capable of using solar energy to convert CO2 and H2O into O2 and energy-rich organic compounds, thus enabling sustainable production of a wide range of bio-products. More and more strains of cyanobacteria are identified that show great promise as cell platforms for the generation of bioproducts. However, strain development is still required to optimize their biosynthesis and increase titers for industrial applications. This review describes the most well-known, newest and most promising strains available to the community and gives an overview of current cyanobacterial biotechnology and the latest innovative strategies used for engineering cyanobacteria. We summarize advanced synthetic biology tools for modulating gene expression and their use in metabolic pathway engineering to increase the production of value-added compounds, such as terpenoids, fatty acids and sugars, to provide a go-to source for scientists starting research in cyanobacterial metabolic engineering.
Larval Therapy and Larval Excretions/Secretions: A Potential Treatment for Biofilm in Chronic Wounds? A Systematic Review
Authors: Morris Daniel , Flores Micah , Harris Llinos , Gammon John , Nigam Yamni
Published: February 2023

Chronic wounds present a global healthcare challenge and are increasing in prevalence, with bacterial biofilms being the primary roadblock to healing in most cases. A systematic review of the to-date knowledge on larval therapy’s interaction with chronic-wound biofilm is presented here. The findings detail how larval therapy—the controlled application of necrophagous blowfly larvae—acts on biofilms produced by chronic-wound-relevant bacteria through their principle pharmacological mode of action: the secretion and excretion of biologically active substances into the wound bed. A total of 12 inclusion-criteria-meeting publications were identified following the application of a PRISMA-guided methodology for a systematic review. The findings of these publications were qualitatively analyzed to provide a summary of the prevailing understanding of larval therapy’s effects on bacterial biofilm. A further review assessed the quality of the existing evidence to identify knowledge gaps and suggest ways these may be bridged. In summary, larval therapy has a seemingly unarguable ability to inhibit and degrade bacterial biofilms associated with impaired wound healing. However, further research is needed to clarify and standardize the methodological approach in this area of investigation. Such research may lead to the clinical application of larval therapy or derivative treatments for the management of chronic-wound biofilms and improve patient healing outcomes at a time when alternative therapies are desperately needed.
Local and Systemic Effects of Porphyromonas gingivalis Infection
Authors: Chen William A. , Dou Yuetan , Fletcher Hansel M. , Boskovic Danilo S.
Published: February 2023

Porphyromonas gingivalis, a gram-negative anaerobe, is a leading etiological agent in periodontitis. This infectious pathogen can induce a dysbiotic, proinflammatory state within the oral cavity by disrupting commensal interactions between the host and oral microbiota. It is advantageous for P. gingivalis to avoid complete host immunosuppression, as inflammation-induced tissue damage provides essential nutrients necessary for robust bacterial proliferation. In this context, P. gingivalis can gain access to the systemic circulation, where it can promote a prothrombotic state. P. gingivalis expresses a number of virulence factors, which aid this pathogen toward infection of a variety of host cells, evasion of detection by the host immune system, subversion of the host immune responses, and activation of several humoral and cellular hemostatic factors.
New Features of Acidophilic Bacteria of the Genus Sulfobacillus: Polysaccharide Biosynthesis and Degradation Pathways
Authors: Panyushkina Anna , Muravyov Maxim
Published: February 2023

Bacteria of the genus Sulfobacillus are predominant members of acidophilic microbial communities involved in the bioprocessing of sulfide raw materials. Genomic analysis of different Sulfobacillus species revealed a starch/glycogen GlgE-dependent biosynthesis pathway of α-glucans from trehalose in S. thermotolerans and S. thermosulfidooxidans. The key enzyme of this pathway, a fused maltose-trehalose/α-amylase protein, was not encoded in the genomes of other Sulfobacillus bacteria. At the same time, the presence of all genes encoding enzymes for α-glucan decomposition allowed the prediction of polysaccharide degradation pathways in these two species. Despite the optimum mixotrophic type of metabolism, a gradual adaptation of Sulfobacillus bacteria to polysaccharides resulted in their active organotrophic growth. Moreover, the enzyme assay determined the activities of the extracellular enzymes involved in glycogen and starch degradation. In acidophilic communities of natural and industrial habitats, an essential function of polysaccharides in the composition of extracellular polymeric substances of slime matrices is to promote the attachment of the microbial cells to solid surfaces, such as mineral particles. Polysaccharides can also be storage compounds used for energy and carbon metabolism under specific environmental conditions. Understanding the metabolic capabilities of Sulfobacillus bacteria in consuming and synthesizing α-glucans, which are provided in this study, is of fundamental importance in understanding acidophilic microbial communities and their application in practice.
Magma Chemistry and Tectonic Controls of Volcanic Activity in the Southern Ural Area during Early Carboniferous Time
Authors: Pravikova Natalia V. , Tikhomirov Petr L. , Tevelev Alexander V. , Kosheleva Irina A. , Surin Timofey N.
Published: February 2023

Early Carboniferous (359.3–323.4 Ma) volcanic complexes are widespread in the Southern Ural tectonic province, a fragment of the western (in present-day coordinates) segment of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. Here, the Lower Carboniferous sequences crop out within the following N–S-trending tectonic zones (from west to east): Magnitogorsk, Ui River, East Ural, Transural, and Valeryanovka. We describe and discuss the geology and geochemistry of the Early Carboniferous volcanic complexes on the basis of published and newly obtained data, with implications for paleo-tectonic models. The western zones are dominated by bimodal rhyolite-basalt series, with the basalts relatively enriched in Ti and Zr but depleted in Nb. The volcanics of the Valeryanovka zone belong to the typically evolved calc-alkaline series, with the derivatives depleted in Ti and Nb. Almost all of the selected groups of volcanics bear geochemical signatures transitional between those of subduction-related and intraplate igneous rocks. The relative enrichment of the volcanics of the East Ural and Transural Zones may be interpreted as a result of a contribution from asthenospheric mantle and/or from subcontinental lithospheric mantle. The volcanics of the Valeryanovka zone reveal features common to subduction-related series of the Andean type. The data obtained allow us to compare the Early Carboniferous geodynamic settings in the western zones with the modern setting of the Northeastern Pacific, whereas the geodynamic setting of the Valeryanovka zone resembles that at the western margin of South America.
Recent Advances in Photoacoustic Agents for Theranostic Applications
Authors: Han Seongyi , Ninjbadgar Tsedendamba , Kang Mijeong , Kim Chulhong , Kim Jeesu
Published: February 2023

Photoacoustic agents are widely used in various theranostic applications. By evaluating the biodistribution obtained from photoacoustic images, the effectiveness of theranostic agents in terms of their delivery efficiency and treatment responses can be analyzed. Through this study, we evaluate and summarize the recent advances in photoacoustic-guided phototherapy, particularly in photothermal and photodynamic therapy. This overview can guide the future directions for theranostic development. Because of the recent applications of photoacoustic imaging in clinical trials, theranostic agents with photoacoustic monitoring have the potential to be translated into the clinical world.
Raman Spectroscopy Characterization of Multi-Functionalized Liposomes as Drug-Delivery Systems for Neurological Disorders
Authors: Rodà Francesca , Picciolini Silvia , Mangolini Valentina , Gualerzi Alice , Seneci Pierfausto , Renda Antonio , Sesana Silvia , Re Francesca , Bedoni Marzia
Published: February 2023

The characterization of nanoparticle-based drug-delivery systems represents a crucial step in achieving a comprehensive overview of their physical, chemical, and biological features and evaluating their efficacy and safety in biological systems. We propose Raman Spectroscopy (RS) for the characterization of liposomes (LPs) to be tested for the control of neuroinflammation and microglial dysfunctions in Glioblastoma multiforme and Alzheimer’s disease. Drug-loaded LPs were functionalized to cross the blood–brain barrier and to guarantee localized and controlled drug release. The Raman spectra of each LP component were used to evaluate their contribution in the LP Raman fingerprint. Raman data analysis made it possible to statistically discriminate LPs with different functionalization patterns, showing that each molecular component has an influence in the Raman spectrum of the final LP formulation. Moreover, CLS analysis on Raman data revealed a good level of synthetic reproducibility of the formulations and confirmed their stability within one month from their synthesis, demonstrating the ability of the technique to evaluate the efficacy of LP synthesis using small amount of sample. RS represents a valuable tool for a fast, sensitive and label free biochemical characterization of LPs that could be used for quality control of nanoparticle-based therapeutics.
High Temperature-Resistant Transparent Conductive Films for Photoelectrochemical Devices Based on W/Ag Composite Nanonetworks
Authors: Liu Menghan , Ren Peiling , Qiao Hu , Zhang Miaomiao , Wu Wenxuan , Li Baoping , Wang Hongjun , Luo Daobin , Liu Jianke , Wang Youqing
Published: February 2023

The traditional Ag nanowire preparation means that it cannot meet the demanding requirements of photoelectrochemical devices due to the undesirable conductivity, difficulty in compounding, and poor heat resistance. Here, we prepared an Ag nanonetwork with superior properties using a special template method based on electrospinning technology. The transparent conductive films based on Ag nanonetworks have good transmittance in a wide range from ultraviolet to visible. It is important that the films have high operability and are easy to be compounded with other materials. After compounding with high-melting-point W metal, the heat-resistance temperature of the W/Ag composite transparent conductive films is increased by 100 °C to 460 °C, and the light transmission and electrical conductivity of the films are not significantly affected. All experimental phenomena in the study are analyzed theoretically. This research can provide an important idea for the metal nanowire electrode, which is difficult to be applied to the photoelectrochemical devices.
Nuts and Cardiovascular Disease Outcomes: A Review of the Evidence and Future Directions
Authors: Glenn Andrea J. , Aune Dagfinn , Freisling Heinz , Mohammadifard Noushin , Kendall Cyril W. C. , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Jenkins David J. A. , Hu Frank B. , Sievenpiper John L.
Published: February 2023

Nuts are nutrient-rich foods that contain many bioactive compounds that are beneficial for cardiovascular health. Higher consumption of nuts has been associated with a reduced risk of several cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in prospective cohort studies, including a 19% and 25% lower risk of CVD incidence and mortality, respectively, and a 24% and 27% lower risk of coronary heart disease incidence and mortality, respectively. An 18% lower risk of stroke mortality, a 15% lower risk of atrial fibrillation, and a 19% lower risk of total mortality have also been observed. The role of nuts in stroke incidence, stroke subtypes, peripheral arterial disease and heart failure has been less consistent. This narrative review summarizes recommendations for nuts by clinical practice guidelines and governmental organizations, epidemiological evidence for nuts and CVD outcomes, nut-containing dietary patterns, potential mechanisms of nuts and CVD risk reduction, and future research directions, such as the use of biomarkers to help better assess nut intake. Although there are still some uncertainties around nuts and CVD prevention which require further research, as summarized in this review, there is a substantial amount of evidence that supports that consuming nuts will have a positive impact on primary and secondary prevention of CVD.
Factors Associated with Interruptions of Enteral Nutrition and the Impact on Macro- and Micronutrient Deficits in ICU Patients
Authors: Kasti Arezina , Theodorakopoulou Maria , Katsas Konstantinos , Synodinou Kalliopi , Nikolaki Maroulla , Zouridaki Alice , Fotiou Stylianos , Kapetani Aliki , Armaganidis Apostolos
Published: February 2023

Background and Aim: Feeding interruptions in critical care patients are often unjustified. We aimed to determine the causes, duration, and frequency of enteral nutrition interruptions (ENIs) and to assess macronutrients and antioxidant deficits according to European Society of Parenteral Enteral Nutrition (ESPEN) guidelines. Methods: We prospectively enrolled Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients admitted for more than 48 h with an inability to orally eat from April to December 2019. The type of enteral nutrition, the number of calories administered, the time of feeding initiation, the reasons for delaying feeding, and the causes for ENI were recorded. Results: 81 patients were enrolled, with a median duration of ENIs of 5.2 (3.4–7.4) hours/day. Gastric residual volume (GRV) monitoring—a highly controversial practice—was the most common cause of ENI (median duration 3 (2.3–3) hours/day). The mean energy intake was 1037 ± 281 kcal/day, while 60.5% of patients covered less than 65% of the total energy needs (1751 ± 295 kcal/day, according to mean Body Mass Index (BMI)). The median daily protein intake did not exceed 0.43 ± 0.3 gr/kg/day of the actual body weight (BW), whereas ESPEN recommends 1.3 gr/kg/day for adjusted BW (p < 0.001). The average administration of micronutrients and antioxidants (arginine, selenium, zinc, vitamins) was significantly less than the dietary reference intake (p < 0.01). Conclusion: ENIs lead to substantial caloric, protein, and antioxidant deficits.
A Glimpse into Milestones of Insulin Resistance and an Updated Review of Its Management
Authors: Aedh Abdullah I. , Alshahrani Majed S. , Huneif Mohammed A. , Pryme Ian F. , Oruch Ramadhan
Published: February 2023

Insulin is the main metabolic regulator of fuel molecules in the diet, such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. It does so by facilitating glucose influx from the circulation into the liver, adipose tissue, and skeletal myocytes. The outcome of which is subjected to glycogenesis in skeletal muscle and lipogenesis in adipose tissue, as well as in the liver. Therefore, insulin has an anabolic action while, on the contrary, hypoinsulinemia promotes the reverse process. Protein breakdown in myocytes is also encountered during the late stages of diabetes mellitus. The balance of the blood glucose level in physiological conditions is maintained by virtue of the interactive functions of insulin and glucagon. In insulin resistance (IR), the balance is disturbed because glucose transporters (GLUTs) of cell membranes fail to respond to this peptide hormone, meaning that glucose molecules cannot be internalized into the cells, the consequence of which is hyperglycemia. To develop the full state of diabetes mellitus, IR should be associated with the impairment of insulin release from beta-cells of the pancreas. Periodic screening of individuals of high risk, such as those with obesity, hypercholesterolemia, and pregnant nulliparous women in antenatal control, is vital, as these are important checkpoints to detect cases of insulin resistance. This is pivotal as IR can be reversed, provided it is detected in its early stages, through healthy dietary habits, regular exercise, and the use of hypoglycemic agents. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology, etiology, diagnosis, preventive methods, and management of IR in brief.