bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Analysis of Mitochondrial Dynamics—From Cardiomyocytes to Osteoblasts: A Critical Review
Authors: Mendelsohn Daniel H. , Schnabel Katja , Mamilos Andreas , Sossalla Samuel , Pabel Steffen , Duerr Georg Daniel , Keller Karsten , Schmitt Volker H. , Barsch Friedrich , Walter Nike , Wong Ronald Man Yeung , El Khassawna Thaqif , Niedermair Tanja , Alt Volker , Rupp Markus , Brochhausen Christoph
Published: April 2022

Mitochondria play a crucial role in cell physiology and pathophysiology. In this context, mitochondrial dynamics and, subsequently, mitochondrial ultrastructure have increasingly become hot topics in modern research, with a focus on mitochondrial fission and fusion. Thus, the dynamics of mitochondria in several diseases have been intensively investigated, especially with a view to developing new promising treatment options. However, the majority of recent studies are performed in highly energy-dependent tissues, such as cardiac, hepatic, and neuronal tissues. In contrast, publications on mitochondrial dynamics from the orthopedic or trauma fields are quite rare, even if there are common cellular mechanisms in cardiovascular and bone tissue, especially regarding bone infection. The present report summarizes the spectrum of mitochondrial alterations in the cardiovascular system and compares it to the state of knowledge in the musculoskeletal system. The present paper summarizes recent knowledge regarding mitochondrial dynamics and gives a short, but not exhaustive, overview of its regulation via fission and fusion. Furthermore, the article highlights hypoxia and its accompanying increased mitochondrial fission as a possible link between cardiac ischemia and inflammatory diseases of the bone, such as osteomyelitis. This opens new innovative perspectives not only for the understanding of cellular pathomechanisms in osteomyelitis but also for potential new treatment options.
Biocompatible Conductive Hydrogels: Applications in the Field of Biomedicine
Authors: Hong Yang , Lin Zening , Yang Yun , Jiang Tao , Shang Jianzhong , Luo Zirong
Published: April 2022

The impact of COVID-19 has rendered medical technology an important factor to maintain social stability and economic increase, where biomedicine has experienced rapid development and played a crucial part in fighting off the pandemic. Conductive hydrogels (CHs) are three-dimensional (3D) structured gels with excellent electrical conductivity and biocompatibility, which are very suitable for biomedical applications. CHs can mimic innate tissue’s physical, chemical, and biological properties, which allows them to provide environmental conditions and structural stability for cell growth and serve as efficient delivery substrates for bioactive molecules. The customizability of CHs also allows additional functionality to be designed for different requirements in biomedical applications. This review introduces the basic functional characteristics and materials for preparing CHs and elaborates on their synthetic techniques. The development and applications of CHs in the field of biomedicine are highlighted, including regenerative medicine, artificial organs, biosensors, drug delivery systems, and some other application scenarios. Finally, this review discusses the future applications of CHs in the field of biomedicine. In summary, the current design and development of CHs extend their prospects for functioning as an intelligent and complex system in diverse biomedical applications.
Biomarkers in Rare Diseases 2.0
Authors: Bax Bridget E.
Published: April 2022

It is estimated that there are over 7000 rare diseases, collectively affecting more than 350 million individuals worldwide [...]
Effectiveness of Tocilizumab in Patients with Severe or Critical Lung Involvement in COVID-19: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Chober Daniel , Aksak-Wąs Bogusz , Bobrek-Lesiakowska Katarzyna , Budny-Finster Anna , Hołda Ewa , Mieżyńska-Kurtycz Joanna , Jamro Grzegorz , Parczewski Miłosz
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Acute lung injury is associated with dysfunctional immune response to SARS-CoV-2. This leads to CRS, which require immunomodulatory treatments aiming to limit the excessive production of cytokines. The literature so far indicates the effectiveness of tocilizumab in patients with COVID-19-associated pneumonia, but there is no clear evidence of its effectiveness in patients with at least 50% lung involvement; therefore, we aimed to bridge this gap in knowledge. Materials and methods: Longitudinal data for 4287 patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection were collected between 1st March 2020 and 16th of January 2022. In total, 182 cases with lung involvement >50% and biochemical indicators of cytokine release storm (Il-6 >100 pg/mL) were selected and analyzed using non-parametric statistics and multivariate Cox models. Results: Among the 182 included patients, 100 (55%) were treated with TCZ, while 82 (45%) did not receive TCZ. The groups were balanced regarding demographics, lung involvement and biochemical markers. Overall mortality in the group was 63.1%. Mortality in the TCZ group was 58.0% compared to 69.5% (n = 57) in the non-TCZ group (p = 0.023). In multivariate Cox proportional hazards models, intravenous administration of tocilizumab was associated with lower probability of ICU admission (HR: 0333 (CI: 0.159–0.700, p = 0.004)) and lower mortality (HR: 0.57306 (CI: 0.354–0.927, p = 0.023)). Conclusions: Tocilizumab is effective as a treatment in the most severely ill patients, in whom the level of lung involvement by the inflammatory process can exceed 50% with coexisting biochemical indices of cytokine storm (Il-6 > 100 pg/mL).
Epidemiologic Trends of Thalassemia, 2006–2018: A Nationwide Population-Based Study
Authors: Lee Jee-Soo , Rhee Tae-Min , Jeon Kibum , Cho Yonggeun , Lee Seung-Woo , Han Kyung-Do , Seong Moon-Woo , Park Sung-Sup , Lee Young Kyung
Published: April 2022

Thalassemia is the most common form of hereditary anemia. Here, we aimed to investigate the 13-year trend of the epidemiologic profiles and risk of comorbidities in thalassemia using a nationwide population-based registry in Korea. Diagnosis of thalassemia, the comorbidities and transfusion events in patients with thalassemia were identified in the Korean National Health Insurance database, which includes the entire population. The prevalence of thalassemia increased from 0.74/100,000 in 2006 to 2.76/100,000 in 2018. Notably, the incidence rate has nearly doubled in the last 2 years from 0.22/100,000 in 2016 to 0.41/100,000 in 2018. The annual transfusion rate gradually decreased from 34.7% in 2006 to 20.6% in 2018. Transfusion events in patients with thalassemia were significantly associated with the risk of comorbidities (diabetes: odds ratio [OR] = 3.68, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.59–5.22; hypertension: OR = 3.06, 95% CI = 2.35–4.00; dyslipidemia: OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.22–2.43; atrial fibrillation: OR = 3.52, 95% CI = 1.69–7.32; myocardial infarction: OR = 3.02, 95% CI = 1.09–8.38; stroke: OR = 3.32, 95% CI = 2.05–5.36; congestive heart failure: OR = 2.83, 95% CI = 1.62–4.97; end-stage renal disease: OR = 3.25, 95% CI = 1.96–5.37). Early detection of comorbidities and timely intervention are required for the management of thalassemia.
Multimodal Evaluation of Long-Term Salivary Gland Alterations in Sarcoidosis
Authors: Hofauer Benedikt , Wiesner Miriam , Stock Konrad , Peltz Friedhelm , Johnson Felix , Zhu Zhaojun , Chaker Adam , Knopf Andreas
Published: April 2022

Background: Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by non-caseating granulomas. In addition to the lungs as classical site of affection, extrapulmonary manifestations are common, for example in the cervical lymph nodes or the salivary glands. The aim of this investigation is the analysis of the long-term course of glandular symptoms and the sonographic evaluation of long-term salivary gland changes. Material and methods: All patients with a diagnosis of sarcoidosis over a period of 20 years in the departments of otorhinolaryngology, rheumatology, and pneumology were identified. In addition to clinical examinations and functional evaluation of the salivary glands, a sonographic examination of the salivary glands was carried out. The changes in the area of the salivary glands were assessed using B-mode sonography and different elastographic methods with appropriate scoring systems. Results: A total of 76 patients were included in the study (age 35.1 ± 21.6 years). Overall, 17 patients presented with salivary gland manifestation at the time of the initial diagnosis. Of these patients, 15 received steroid therapy, 6 were also treated with another drug, and 2 patients were not treated with drugs. The time span between initial diagnosis and follow-up was 88.2 months (±83.0). At the time of the initial diagnosis, 17/17 complained of swelling of the salivary glands, 9/17 of xerostomia, and 8/17 of pain in the area of the salivary glands. At the time of follow-up, 5/17 reported swelling of the salivary glands, 6/17 reported xerostomia, and 1/17 reported pain in the salivary gland area. Sonography showed sonomorphological abnormalities of the salivary glands only in individual cases, with only mild alterations on average. Conclusion: In summary, it can be observed that patients with initial symptoms in the area of the salivary glands, such as swelling or pain, also suffer more frequently from dry mouth and eyes. In all patients, however, these symptoms regressed over time. A previous diagnosis of sarcoidosis with involvement of the salivary glands only leads to permanent abnormalities in the area of the salivary glands in individual cases.
Myopia Control Effect Is Influenced by Baseline Relative Peripheral Refraction in Children Wearing Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) Spectacle Lenses
Authors: Zhang Hanyu , Lam Carly S. Y. , Tang Wing-Chun , Leung Myra , Qi Hua , Lee Paul H. , To Chi-Ho
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study is to investigate if baseline relative peripheral refraction (RPR) influences the myopia control effects in Chinese myopic children wearing Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) lenses. Peripheral refraction at 10°, 20°, and 30° nasal (10 N, 20 N, 30 N) and temporal (10 T, 20 T, 30 T) retina were measured at six-month intervals for children who participated in a 2-year randomized controlled trial. The relationship between the baseline peripheral refractions and myopia progression and axial length changes were analysed. A total of 79 children and 81 children in the DIMS and single vision (SV) group were investigated, respectively. In the DIMS group, more baseline myopic RPR spherical equivalent (SE) was associated with more myopic progression (10 N: r = 0.36, p = 0.001; 20 N: r = 0.35, p = 0.001) and greater axial elongation (10 N: r = −0.34, p = 0.001; 20 N: r = −0.29, p = 0.006) after adjusting for co-factors. In the SV group, baseline RPR had association with only myopia progression (10 N: r = 0.37, p = 0.001; 20 N: r = 0.36, p = 0.001; 30 N: r = 0.35, p = 0.002) but not with axial elongation after Bonferroni correction (p > 0.008). No statistically significant relationship was found between temporal retina and myopia progression or axial elongation in both groups. Children with baseline myopic RPR had statistically significant more myopia progression (mean difference around −0.40 D) and more axial elongation (mean difference 0.15 mm) when compared with the children having baseline hyperopic RPR in the DIMS group but not in the SV group. In conclusion, the baseline RPR profile may not influence future myopia progression or axial elongation for the SV lens wearers. However, DIMS lenses slowed down myopia progression and was better in myopia control for the children with baseline hyperopic RPR than the children with myopic RPR. This may partially explain why myopia control effects vary among myopic children. Customised myopic defocus for individuals may optimise myopia control effects, and further research to determine the optimal dosage, with consideration of peripheral retinal profile, is warranted.
Efficacy and Safety of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Post-Stroke Dysphagia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: He Kelin , Wu Lei , Huang Yi , Chen Qinqin , Qiu Bei , Liang Kang , Ma Ruijie
Published: April 2022

Dysphagia is one of the most common symptoms in patients after stroke onset, which has multiple unfavorable effects on quality of life and functional recovery. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation that is widely used to improve deglutition function. Recently, some studies have confirmed that tDCS enhances deglutition function after stroke. However, the number of evaluation indexes used in those studies was small, and the number of trials included was limited. Most importantly, the optimal stimulation protocol is still uncertain and the safety of tDCS has not been reviewed. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to address these shortcomings. Methods: Seven databases were searched entirely, including Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Literature Service System (SinoMed), Wan-fang database, and the Chinese Scientific Journals Database (VIP) from inception to 31 December 2021. Two reviewers independently evaluated the eligibility of retrieved data according to the selection criteria and assessed the methodological quality of the studies using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Outcomes, measures, and indicators used in this study included the dysphagia outcome and severity scale (DOSS), modified Mann assessment of swallowing ability (MMASA), functional oral intake scale (FOIS), functional dysphagia scale (FDS), and Kubota’s water-drinking test (KWDT). Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed to evaluate the intervention effect more specifically. Results: Fifteen trials with a total of 787 participants (394 subjects in the tDCS groups were treated with true tDCS, and 393 subjects in the control groups were wait-listed or treated with sham tDCS) involving tDCS for dysphagia after stroke and were included in the meta-analysis. Results of this meta-analysis confirmed that tDCS had a positive effect on post-stroke dysphagia. Subgroup analyses revealed that bilateral and high-intensity stimulation with tDCS had a more significant impact on post-stroke dysphagia. Furthermore, no adverse events occurred during the application of tDCS for post-stroke dysphagia. Conclusion: tDCS can promote the recovery of deglutition function in patients with dysphagia after stroke. In addition, bilateral stimulation and high-intensity stimulation may have better effects. However, the safety evidence for tDCS and post-stroke dysphagia is insufficient.
The Importance of Foot Function Assessment Using the Foot Function Index-Revised Short Form (FFI-RS) Questionnaire in the Comprehensive Treatment of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Rutkowski Radosław , Gizińska Małgorzata , Gałczyńska-Rusin Małgorzata , Kasprzak Magdalena Paulina , Budiman-Mak Elly
Published: April 2022

Background. Foot problems may have a substantial negative impact on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients’ mobility. They affect walking and the functional capacity to perform daily tasks. Methods. This study included 61 patients with RA and foot pain or swelling. The study group comprised 37 patients (aged 54.3 ± 9.5 years) with foot lesions, as demonstrated in an ultrasound, and the control group comprised 24 patients (aged 57.3 ± 11.5 years) without foot lesions. The patients’ health statuses were evaluated with the Foot Function Index-Revised Short Form (FFI-RS), the Polish version of the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI), and the Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS 28). Results. The FFI-RS showed significant differences between the study and control groups in total results, as well as in the pain and stiffness subscales. Subsequent analyses showed numerous significant correlations. The FFI-RS total results correlated with the HAQ’s standing up, walking, and total results. The FFI-RS pain results correlated with the social issues and HAQ’s total results. The FFI-RS difficulty results correlated with the disease’s duration. In the study group, there were significant correlations of the FFI-RS stiffness, difficulty, and social issues results with the HAQ’s standing up, walking, and total results, and also of the FFI-RS activity limitation results with the HAQ’s standing up results. In the control group, there were correlations of the FFI-RS stiffness, difficulty, and activity limitation results with the HAQ’s walking and total results. Finally, in the study group, we also found correlations of the FFI-RS total, pain, stiffness, difficulty, and social issues results with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) results, as well as of the FFI-RS total results with the DAS 28 results. Conclusions. The FFI-RS is an effective tool for assessing RA patients’ functional status and can be used to evaluate treatment effects. The FFI-RS detected RA-related changes in the foot joint function in patients without foot lesions, as assessed by ultrasound.
A Network Simulator for the Estimation of Bandwidth Load and Latency Created by Heterogeneous Spiking Neural Networks on Neuromorphic Computing Communication Networks
Authors: Kleijnen Robert , Robens Markus , Schiek Michael , van Waasen Stefan
Published: April 2022

Accelerated simulations of biological neural networks are in demand to discover the principals of biological learning. Novel many-core simulation platforms, e.g., SpiNNaker, BrainScaleS and Neurogrid, allow one to study neuron behavior in the brain at an accelerated rate, with a high level of detail. However, they do not come anywhere near simulating the human brain. The massive amount of spike communication has turned out to be a bottleneck. We specifically developed a network simulator to analyze in high detail the network loads and latencies caused by different network topologies and communication protocols in neuromorphic computing communication networks. This simulator allows simulating the impacts of heterogeneous neural networks and evaluating neuron mapping algorithms, which is a unique feature among state-of-the-art network models and simulators. The simulator was cross-checked by comparing the results of a homogeneous neural network-based run with corresponding bandwidth load results from comparable works. Additionally, the increased level of detail achieved by the new simulator is presented. Then, we show the impact heterogeneous connectivity can have on the network load, first for a small-scale test case, and later for a large-scale test case, and how different neuron mapping algorithms can influence this effect. Finally, we look at the latency estimations performed by the simulator for different mapping algorithms, and the impact of the node size.
Natural History and Molecular Characteristics of Korean Patients with Mucopolysaccharidosis Type III
Authors: Kim Min-Sun , Yang Aram , Noh Eu-seon , Kim Chiwoo , Bae Ga Young , Lim Han Hyuk , Park Hyung-Doo , Cho Sung Yoon , Jin Dong-Kyu
Published: April 2022

Background: Mucopolysaccharidosis type III (MPS III) is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder characterised by progressive neurocognitive deterioration. MPS III subtypes are clinically indistinguishable, with a wide range of symptoms and variable severity. The natural history of this disorder within an Asian population has not yet been extensively studied. This study investigated the natural history of Korean patients with MPS III. Methods: Thirty-four patients from 31 families diagnosed with MPS III from January 1997 to May 2020 in Samsung Medical Centre were enrolled. Clinical, molecular, and biochemical characteristics were retrospectively collected from the patients’ medical records and via interviews. Results: 18 patients had MPS IIIA, 14 had IIIB, and two had IIIC. Twenty (58.9%) patients were male. Mean age at symptom onset was 2.8 ± 0.8 years and at diagnosis was 6.3 ± 2.2 years. All patients with MPS IIIA and IIIB were classified into the rapidly progressing (RP) phenotype. The most common symptom at diagnosis was language retardation (88.2%), followed by motor retardation (76.5%), general retardation (64.7%), and hyperactivity (41.2%). Language retardation was more predominant in IIIA, and motor retardation was more predominant in IIIB. The mean age of the 13 deceased patients at the time of the study was 14.4 ± 4.1 years. The age at diagnosis and lag time were significantly older and longer in the non-survivor group compared with the survivor group (p = 0.029 and 0.045, respectively). Genetic analysis was performed in 24 patients with MPS III and identified seven novel variants and three hot spots. Conclusion: This study is the first to analyse the genetic and clinical characteristics of MPS III patients in Korea. Better understanding of the natural history of MPS III might allow early diagnosis and timely management of the disease and evaluation of treatment outcomes in future clinical trials for MPS III.
Portable IoT Body Temperature Screening System to Combat the Adverse Effects of COVID-19
Authors: Gsangaya Kisheen Rao , Hajjaj Sami Salama Hussen , Sultan Mohamed Thariq Hameed , Shahar Farah Syazwani , Shah Ain Umaira Md
Published: April 2022

In managing the COVID-19 pandemic, the Malaysian government enforced mandatory body temperature screening as a rudimentary form of infection detection at the entry points of establishments and public transportation. However, previous iterations of IoT body temperature screening systems were bulky, fragile, expensive, and designed for personal use instead of the screening of many people. Therefore, a standalone, portable, and rugged IoT-enabled body temperature screening system for detecting elevated temperatures was developed in this research work. This system uses a proximity sensor to detect subjects and determine their body temperature using a non-contact temperature sensor. Body temperature data is displayed on the device and uploaded over a Wi-Fi network to a cloud server for data storage and analysis. From the cloud server, body temperature information is retrieved and displayed on the Blynk IoT client dashboard for remote monitoring. The device also provides alerts for body temperatures above 37.5 °C. The prototype system performed impressively during the assessment. Body temperature readings were impressively accurate compared to a medical-grade non-contact thermometer, with an average variance of less than 1%. Additionally, the system was highly reliable, with a 100% IoT data broadcast success rate.
Community Participation Strategy for Sustainable Urban Regeneration in Xiamen, China
Authors: Yang Jinkun , Yang Linchuan , Ma Haitao
Published: April 2022

Urban regeneration is an important strategic choice in promoting urban development globally. Existing research on urban regeneration mainly focuses on the community’s economic benefits. However, less research concentrates on how community participation contributes to the sustainable development of communities. The aim of this study is to explore the community regeneration approach in the context of urban regeneration in a typical village community in China. This study finds that participatory planning, which is mainly characterized by public participation, can be an effective way of communication and cooperation. The collaborative workshops provide a participatory platform for stakeholders and promote sustainable community development. Therefore, traditional planning approaches may need to be changed. The contribution of this article is to develop a collaborative planning approach for sustainable community development, which can serve as a reference for community governance in China and other developing countries.
Locational Differences of Collective Land and Their Socioeconomic Effects on the Rural Elderly in China’s Pearl River Delta
Authors: Zhao Miaoxi , Lin Yanliu , Wang Huiqin
Published: April 2022

In recent years, rapid urbanization in China has led to land transformation and unequal social and economic development among rural collective land in different regions. Although there has been considerable research on land development in China, there is a lack of studies on the socioeconomic impacts of unequal collective land development on rural elders. This research investigates collective land support, family support, and social support among the elderly in three types of villages—urban, suburban, and remote—in China’s Pearl River Delta. The findings show that land support retains an important factor for supporting the rural elderly, while family support is in steep decline, and social elderly support offers low coverage. However, land support differs greatly with location, and only urban villages in central locations with high land values are found to provide adequate land support for the rural elderly. The key influential factor of land income has shifted from land quantity to land location, and there now appears to be a need to adjust relevant land, fiscal, and taxation policies for collective land in different locations.
Influence of Parallel Tubular Channel Angular Pressing (PTCAP) Processing on the Microstructure Evolution and Wear Characteristics of Copper and Brass Tubes
Authors: Abd El Aal Mohamed Ibrahim , El-Fahhar Hossam Hemdan , Mohamed Abdelkarim Yousif , Gadallah Elshafey Ahmed
Published: April 2022

The influence of the number of passes and the tube materials on the microstructural evolution, mechanical properties, and wear behavior of Cu and brass tubes after parallel tubular channel angular pressing (PTCAP) was investigated. The grain size decreased to final grain sizes of 138.6 nm and 142.7 nm, after PTCAP of the Cu and brass tubes was conducted in up to 4 and 2 passes, respectively. PTCAP contributes to obtaining an ultra-fine grain (UFG) microstructure, with a mixture of different grain sizes that conferred high hardness. The present results indicate the superior wear resistance of Cu and brass PTCAP tubes, relative to Cu and brass samples that were previously deformed by different severe plastic deformation (SPD) processes. The wear mechanism of the Cu tubes changed from delamination and cracks with a high degree of adhesive wear before PTCAP into a combination of adhesive and abrasive wear, with a decrease in the presence of oxygen content after the PTCAP procedure. The wear mechanism also changed from a combination of adhesive and abrasive mechanisms into abrasive ones with the absence of oxygen after the PTCAP of brass tubes.
The Effect of Surface Processing on the Shear Strength of Cobalt-Chromium Dental Alloy and Ceramics
Authors: Saleeva Liaisan , Kashapov Ramil , Shakirzyanov Farid , Kuznetsov Eduard , Kashapov Lenar , Smirnova Viktoriya , Kashapov Nail , Saleeva Gulshat , Sachenkov Oskar , Saleev Rinat
Published: April 2022

Porcelain fused to metal is widespread dental prosthetic restoration. The survival rate of metal-ceramic restorations depends not only on the qualifications of dentists, dental technicians but also on the adhesive strength of ceramics to a metal frame. The goal of the research is to determine the optimal parameters of the surface machining of the metal frame to increase the adhesion of metal to ceramics. Adhesion of cobalt-chromium alloy and ceramics was investigated. A profilometer and a scanning electron microscope were used to analyze the morphology. To estimate the adhesion the shear strength was measured by the method based on ASTM D1002-10. A method of surface microrelief formation of metal samples by plasma-electrolyte treatment has been developed. Regimes for plasma-electrolyte surface treatment were investigated according to current-voltage characteristics and a surface roughness parameter. The samples were subjected to different surface machining techniques such as polishing, milling, sandblasting (so-called traditional methods), and plasma-electrolyte processing. Morphology of the surface for all samples was studied and the difference in microrelief was shown. The roughness and adhesive strength were measured for samples either. As a result, the mode for plasma- electrolytic surface treatment under which the adhesive strength was increased up to 183% (compared with the traditional methods) was found.
A Review of Polylactic Acid as a Replacement Material for Single-Use Laboratory Components
Authors: Freeland Brian , McCarthy Eanna , Balakrishnan Rengesh , Fahy Samantha , Boland Adam , Rochfort Keith D. , Dabros Michal , Marti Roger , Kelleher Susan M. , Gaughran Jennifer
Published: April 2022

Every year, the EU emits 13.4 Mt of CO2 solely from plastic production, with 99% of all plastics being produced from fossil fuel sources, while those that are produced from renewable sources use food products as feedstocks. In 2019, 29 Mt of plastic waste was collected in Europe. It is estimated that 32% was recycled, 43% was incinerated and 25% was sent to landfill. It has been estimated that life-sciences (biology, medicine, etc.) alone create plastic waste of approximately 5.5 Mt/yr, the majority being disposed of by incineration. The vast majority of this plastic waste is made from fossil fuel sources, though there is a growing interest in the possible use of bioplastics as a viable alternative for single-use lab consumables, such as petri dishes, pipette tips, etc. However, to-date only limited bioplastic replacement examples exist. In this review, common polymers used for labware are discussed, along with examining the possibility of replacing these materials with bioplastics, specifically polylactic acid (PLA). The material properties of PLA are described, along with possible functional improvements dure to additives. Finally, the standards and benchmarks needed for assessing bioplastics produced for labware components are reviewed.
Radiation-Induced Patterning at the Nanometric Scale: A Phase Field Approach
Authors: Simeone David , Garcia Philippe , Luneville Laurence
Published: April 2022

The phase field approach was developed in the last 20 years to handle radiation damage in materials. This approach bridges the gap between atomistic simulations extensively used to model first step of radiation damage at short time and continuum approach at large time. The main advantage of such an approach lies in its ability to compute not only the microstructure at the nanometric scale but also to calculate generalized susceptibilities such as elastic constants under irradiation. After a brief description of the rate theory, used to model the microstructure induced by irradiation, we briefly discuss the foundation of the phase field method, highlighting not only its advantages, but also its limitations in comparison with the rate theory. We conclude this presentation by proposing future orientations for computing the microstructure in irradiated materials.
Research on Dynamic Strength and Inertia Effect of Concrete Materials Based on Large-Diameter Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar Test
Authors: Sun Bi , Chen Rui , Ping Yang , Zhu ZhenDe , Wu Nan , Shi Zhenyue
Published: April 2022

The Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) test device is an important tool to study the dynamic characteristics of concrete materials. Inertial effect is one of the main factors that cause inaccurate results in SHPB tests of concrete materials. To solve this problem, Large-diameter SHPB tests on concrete and mortar were performed. A dynamic increase factor (DIF) model considering strain rate effect and inertia effect was established. This model provides a scientific reference for studying the dynamic mechanical properties of concrete materials. The experimental results indicate that the strain rate effect of concrete is more sensitive than that of mortar, but the inertia effect of mortar is more sensitive than that of concrete. Under the same strain rate, the energy utilization rate, average fragment size, and impact potentiality of mortar are higher than concrete.
Effect of Transition Metal Doping on the Structural, Morphological, and Magnetic Properties of NiFe2O4
Authors: Dippong Thomas , Cadar Oana , Levei Erika Andrea
Published: April 2022

Sol-gel route followed by thermal treatment was used to produce NiFe2O4 doped with transition metal ions (Zn2+, Mn2+, Co2+). The structural, morphological, and magnetic properties of the doped NiFe2O4 were compared with those of virgin NiFe2O4. The metal-glyoxylates’ formation and decomposition as well as the thermal stability of the doped and virgin ferrites were assessed by thermal analysis. The functional groups identified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the decomposition of metal nitrates, the formation and decomposition of precursors, and the formation of the SiO2 matrix. The X-ray diffraction indicated that the sol-gel synthesis produced single-phase crystalline ferrites in case of virgin, Zn2+ and Co2+-doped Ni-ferrites. By doping with Mn2+, several secondary phases derived from the SiO2 matrix accompanied the crystalline spinel ferrite. The crystallite sizes depended on the annealing temperature and type of doping ion. The gradual increase of lattice parameters suggested the uniform distribution of doping metal ions in the NiFe2O4 lattice. The saturation magnetization, remanent magnetizations, coercivity, and anisotropy were found to depend on the doping ion, annealing temperature, and particle size. The high saturation magnetization values of the obtained nanocomposites make them suitable for a wide range of applications in the field of sensors development and construction.
Mitigation of Corrosion Initiated by Cl− and SO42−-ions in Blast Furnace Cement Concrete Mixed with Sea Water
Authors: Krivenko Pavel , Rudenko Igor , Konstantynovskyi Oleksandr , Vaičiukynienė Danutė
Published: April 2022

The use of blast furnace cement is an effective way to meet the requirements of sustainable development. However, CEM III/C is characterized by slow strength gain. The problem can be worse for plasticized reinforced blast furnace cement concretes mixed with sea water in view of shorter durability. The mitigation of corrosion in plasticized blast furnace cement concretes mixed with sea water can be provided through a composition of minor additional constituents, with percentage by mass of the main constituents: alkali metal compounds, 2…3; calcium aluminate cement, 1; clinoptilolite, 1. The alkali metal compounds are known to activate hydraulic properties of ground granulated blast furnace slag. A calcium aluminate cement promotes the accelerated chemical binding of Cl− and SO42−-ions with the formation of Kuzel’s salt. A clinoptilolite occludes these aggressive ions. The positive effects of the mentioned minor additional constituents in the blast furnace cement were supported by the increased early strength gain and the higher structural density, as well as by a good state of steel reinforcement, in the plasticized concretes mixed with sea water.
N-polar GaN Film Epitaxy on Sapphire Substrate without Intentional Nitridation
Authors: Su Zhaole , Li Yangfeng , Hu Xiaotao , Song Yimeng , Kong Rui , Deng Zhen , Ma Ziguang , Du Chunhua , Wang Wenxin , Jia Haiqiang , Chen Hong , Jiang Yang
Published: April 2022

High-temperature nitridation is commonly thought of as a necessary process to obtain N-polar GaN films on a sapphire substrate. In this work, high-quality N-polar GaN films were grown on a vicinal sapphire substrate with a 100 nm high-temperature (HT) AlN buffer layer (high V/III ratio) and without an intentional nitriding process. The smallest X-ray full width at half maximum (FWHM) values of the (002)/(102) plane were 237/337 arcsec. On the contrary, N-polar GaN film with an intentional nitriding process had a lower crystal quality. In addition, we investigated the effect of different substrate treatments 1 min before the high-temperature AlN layer’s growth on the quality of the N-polar GaN films grown on different vicinal sapphire substrates.
Degradation Effect and Magnetoelectric Transport Properties in CrBr3 Devices
Authors: Wu Yanfei , Zhu Mengyuan , Zhao Ruijie , Liu Xinjie , Shen Jianxin , Huang He , Shen Shipeng , Zhang Liyuan , Zhang Jingyan , Zheng Xinqi , Wang Shouguo
Published: April 2022

Two-dimensional (2D) magnetic materials exhibiting unique 2D-limit magnetism have attracted great attention due to their potential applications in ultrathin spintronic devices. These 2D magnetic materials and their heterostructures provide a unique platform for exploring physical effect and exotic phenomena. However, the degradation of most 2D magnetic materials at ambient conditions has so far hindered their characterization and integration into ultrathin devices. Furthermore, the effect of degradation on magnetoelectric transport properties, which is measured for the demonstration of exotic phenomena and device performance, has remained unexplored. Here, the first experimental investigation of the degradation of CrBr3 flakes and its effect on magnetoelectric transport behavior in devices is reported. The extra magnetic compounds derived from oxidation-related degradation play a significant role in the magnetoelectric transport in CrBr3 devices, greatly affecting the magnetoresistance and conductivity. This work has important implications for studies concerning 2D magnetic materials measured, stored, and integrated into devices at ambient conditions.
Is Promoting Green Finance in Line with the Long-Term Market Mechanism? The Perspective of Chinese Commercial Banks
Authors: Zhang Kai , Zhou Xinmiao
Published: April 2022

Green finance is a sustainable force in promoting green development. China’s social financing structure determines the key role that green credit plays in sustainable development. Under the dual pressure of future economic downturn and huge capital gaps, it is worth exploring whether to continue promoting green credit that conforms to the long-term market mechanism. From the perspective of Chinese commercial banks, this paper analyzes whether promoting green credit is compatible with the incentives and their profit maximization goals. To this end, the research in this paper is based on the following three aspects: (1) Based on financial analysis, this paper reveals the different pricing of green industries in the capital market and credit market and explains the mechanism through which green credit policies improve the operating conditions of commercial banks; (2) combined with the conclusions from the literature and financial analysis, the influence of different index types on the modeling results is analyzed, and it is determined that the main reasons causing a decline in the return on assets are the excessive expansion of capital and the decline in internal resource-use efficiency; (3) a data envelopment model (more accurately, SBM-DDF) with undesirable outputs is established to dynamically analyze the operating efficiency of Chinese commercial banks, and the role of green credit in improving efficiency is studied. The main conclusions of this paper are as follows: if Chinese commercial banks increase their proportion of green credit, they can not only increase their profit scale but also improve and optimize the allocation of their internal resources, thus improving their operating efficiency. The main sample of this study comprises 43 commercial banks in China from 2007 to 2020.
Analysis of S-Adenosylmethionine and S-Adenosylhomocysteine: Method Optimisation and Profiling in Healthy Adults upon Short-Term Dietary Intervention
Authors: Bravo Aida Corrillero , Aguilera Maria Nieves Ligero , Marziali Nahuel R. , Moritz Lennart , Wingert Victoria , Klotz Katharina , Schumann Anke , Grünert Sarah C. , Spiekerkoetter Ute , Berger Urs , Lederer Ann-Kathrin , Huber Roman , Hannibal Luciana
Published: April 2022

S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) is essential for methyl transfer reactions. All SAM is produced de novo via the methionine cycle. The demethylation of SAM produces S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), an inhibitor of methyltransferases and the precursor of homocysteine (Hcy). The measurement of SAM and SAH in plasma has value in the diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) and in research to assess methyl group homeostasis. The determination of SAM and SAH is complicated by the instability of SAM under neutral and alkaline conditions and the naturally low concentration of both SAM and SAH in plasma (nM range). Herein, we describe an optimised LC-MS/MS method for the determination of SAM and SAH in plasma, urine, and cells. The method is based on isotopic dilution and employs 20 µL of plasma or urine, or 500,000 cells, and has an instrumental running time of 5 min. The reference ranges for plasma SAM and SAH in a cohort of 33 healthy individuals (age: 19–60 years old; mean ± 2 SD) were 120 ± 36 nM and 21.5 ± 6.5 nM, respectively, in accordance with independent studies and diagnostic determinations. The method detected abnormal concentrations of SAM and SAH in patients with inborn errors of methyl group metabolism. Plasma and urinary SAM and SAH concentrations were determined for the first time in a randomised controlled trial of 53 healthy adult omnivores (age: 18–60 years old), before and after a 4 week intervention with a vegan or meat-rich diet, and revealed preserved variations of both metabolites and the SAM/SAH index.
Reappraising the Provenance of Early Neoproterozoic Strata in the Southern–Southeastern North China Craton and Its Implication for Paleogeographic Reconstruction
Authors: Sun Fengbo , Peng Peng , Zheng Deshun , Zuo Pengfei
Published: April 2022

The early Neoproterozoic sediments in the southern–southeastern (S-SE) North China Craton (NCC) are critical in paleogeographic reconstruction. We present new detrital zircon U–Pb–Hf data of five sandstone samples from the Sangwon Supergroup in SE-NCC and the Wufoshan Group in S-NCC. We integrate published zircon U–Pb data to appraise their provenance. The new dataset constrains the maximum depositional age of the Sangwon Supergroup to be ca. 1.0 Ga. The similar provenance transition and the comparable sequence stratigraphy imply that the Wufoshan Group could be an extension of the Xuhuai–Dalian–Pyongnam basins in the SE NCC with a maximum depositional age of ca. 1.0 Ga. The zircon age spectra of the successions show four major populations at ca. 2.5 Ga, ca. 2.0–1.8 Ga, ca. 1.6–1.4 Ga, ca. 1.3–1.0 Ga, with rare >2.5 Ga grains. The Archean–Paleoproterozoic grains could be derived from the NCC, which is confirmed by their εHf(t) values. After a review of the possible paleocontinental reconstructions, we suggest that the ca. 1.6–1.0 Ga grains with different εHf(t) values (mostly positive) were from the southwestern Congo craton, supporting a NCC–SW Congo/SE NCC-S São Francisco connection at ca. 0.9 Ga.
Quantification of Protein “Biomarkers” in Wheat-Based Food Systems: Dealing with Process-Related Issues
Authors: Marengo Mauro , Carpen Aristodemo , Mamone Gianfranco , Ferranti Pasquale , Iametti Stefania
Published: April 2022

Selected food proteins may represent suitable markers for assessing either the presence/absence of specific food ingredients or the type and intensity of food processes. A fundamental step in the quantification of any protein marker is choosing a proper protocol for solubilizing the protein of interest. This step is particularly critical in the case of solid foods and when the protein analyte is prone to undergo intermolecular disulfide exchange reactions with itself or with other protein components in the system as a consequence of process-induced unfolding. In this frame, gluten-based systems represent matrices where a protein network is present and the biomarker proteins may be either linked to other components of the network or trapped into the network itself. The protein biomarkers considered here were wheat gluten toxic sequences for coeliac (QQPFP, R5), wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), and chicken egg ovalbumin (OVA). These proteins were considered here in the frame of three different cases dealing with processes different in nature and severity. Results from individual cases are commented as for: (1) the molecular basis of the observed behavior of the protein; (2) the design of procedure aimed at improving the recovery of the protein biomarker in a form suitable for reliable identification and quantification; (3) a critical analysis of the difficulties associated with the plain transfer of an analytical protocol from one product/process to another. Proper respect for the indications provided by the studies exemplified in this study may prevent coarse errors in assays and vane attempts at estimating the efficacy of a given treatment under a given set of conditions. The cases presented here also indicate that recovery of a protein analyte often does not depend in a linear fashion on the intensity of the applied treatment, so that caution must be exerted when attributing predictive value to the results of a particular study.
Comparative Assessment of Phytoconstituents, Antioxidant Activity and Chemical Analysis of Different Parts of Milk Thistle Silybum marianum L.
Authors: Javeed Ansar , Ahmed Maqsood , Sajid Allah Rakha , Sikandar Aatika , Aslam Muhammad , Hassan Talfoor ul , Samiullah  , Nazir Zahid , Ji Mingshan , Li Cong
Published: April 2022

Silybum marianum L. is a therapeutic plant belonging to the family Asteraceae, which has exhibited silymarin, a principal component used to cure various physiochemical disorders. The study appraised the phytochemical analysis, antioxidant activity and chemical analysis of an extract from the seed, stem and leaves. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis was evaluated by the Folin–Ciocalteu reagent method and aluminum chloride colorimetric method, respectively. While the antioxidant activity was determined by using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and acetate buffer in ferric chloride (FRAP) assay, respectively, the chemical profile was evaluated by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) assay. The study outcomes identified that alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids and catcholic tannins were present in seed, stem and leaves extracts except for saponins and Gallic tannins. Whereas, phenols were absent only in seed extract. Quantitative analysis revealed the presence of phenols and flavonoids in appreciable amounts of 21.79 (GAE/g), 129.66 (QE/g) and 17.29 (GAE/g), 114.29 (QE/g) from the leaves and stem extract, respectively. Similarly, all extracts expressed reasonable DPPH inhibition (IC50) and FRAP reducing power such as 75.98, 72.39 and 63.21% and 46.60, 51.40 and 41.30 mmol/g from the seeds, stem and leaves extract, respectively. Additionally, chemical analysis revealed the existence of 6, 8 and 9 chemical compounds from the seeds, stem and leaves extract, respectively, corresponding to 99.95, 99.96 and 98.89% of the whole extract. The chemical compound, Dibutyl phthalate was reported from all extracts while, Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester and Silane, (1,1-dimethylethyl), dimethyl (phenylmethoxy) were reported only from the seed and leaves extract. Moreover, Methyl stearate was also a major compound reported from all extracts except for seed extract. It is demonstrable that extracts from different parts of S. marianum possess significant antioxidant activity, as well as valuable chemical compounds accountable for therapeutic effects that might be incorporated as an alternative to synthetic chemical agents.