bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Dynamics Insights into Mechanical Stability, Elastic Properties, and Fracture Behavior of PHOTH-Graphene
Authors: Peng Qing , Chen Gen , Huang Zeyu , Chen Xue , Li Ao , Cai Xintian , Zhang Yuqiang , Chen Xiao-Jia , Hu Zhongwei
Published: September 2024

PHOTH-graphene is a newly predicted 2D carbon material with a low-energy structure. However, its mechanical stability and fracture properties are still elusive. The mechanical stability, elastic, and fracture properties of PHOTH-graphene were investigated using classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations equipped with REBO potential in this study. The influence of orientation and temperature on mechanical properties was evaluated. Specifically, the Young’s modulus, toughness, and ultimate stress and strain varied by −26.14%, 36.46%, 29.04%, and 25.12%, respectively, when comparing the armchair direction to the zigzag direction. The percentage reduction in ultimate stress, ultimate strain, and toughness of the material in both directions after a temperature increase of 1000 K (from 200 K to 1200 K) ranged from 56.69% to 91.80%, and the Young’s modulus was reduced by 13.63% and 7.25% in both directions, respectively, with Young’s modulus showing lower sensitivity. Defects usually weaken the material’s strength, but adding random point defects in the range of 3% to 5% significantly increases the ultimate strain of the material. Furthermore, hydrogen atom adsorption induces crack expansion to occur earlier, and the crack tip without hydrogen atom adsorption just began to expand when the strain was 0.135, while the crack tip with hydrogen atom adsorption had already undergone significant expansion. This study provides a reference for the possible future practical application of PHOTH-graphene in terms of mechanical properties and fracture failure.
Utilization of Multiple Recycled Materials in Asphalt Concrete: Mechanical Characterization and Cost–Benefit Analysis
Authors: Han Heui-Soo , Golestani Behnam , Park Kyungwon , Cho Byounghooi , Nam Boo Hyun
Published: September 2024

This study examines the strategic incorporation of various recycled materials into asphalt concrete, specifically focusing on municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash (MSWI BA), recycled asphalt shingle (RAS), and recycled concrete aggregate (RCA). Due to the high porosity of MSWI BA and RCA, and the significant asphalt binder content (30–40%) found in RAS, there is a need to increase the amount of liquid asphalt used. RAS is posited as an efficient substitute for the asphalt binder, helping to counterbalance the high absorption characteristics of MSWI BA and RCA. The research objective is to quantitatively evaluate the effect of the combined use of RAS, MSWI BA, and RCA in Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA). This study encompasses several laboratory evaluations (i.e., rutting and tensile strength tests) and a cost–benefit analysis, which is a life cycle cost analysis. The results indicate that the combined use of these materials results in a higher tensile strength and rut resistance when compared with the control (with virgin aggregate). According to the cost–benefit analysis result, when the three recycled materials are used for an HMA overlay over an existing aged pavement, it could be 60–80% more cost-effective compared to a conventional HMA overlay, thereby offering significant economical savings each year in the field of road construction.
A Comparative Study of Theoretical and Experimental Analysis on Balanced and Unbalanced Rotors Supported by Oil- and Water-Lubricated Journal Bearings
Authors: Ahmed Omar , El-Sayed Tamer A. , Sayed Hussein
Published: September 2024

Studying rotor-bearing systems involving fluid film bearings is essential for designing and assessing the dynamic responses and performance of rotating machinery. They are involved in many applications such as pumps, turbines, and engines. Water-lubricated bearings are often used in many applications where the use of oil-based lubricants is not desirable, such as in environmentally sensitive areas such as water desalination. In this study, dynamic analysis is performed to identify the stability regions that prevent the application of water-lubricated journal bearings. This is achieved by solving the system equations of motion and then using an infinitesimal perturbation method to evaluate the second-order bearing coefficients of a journal bearing. In this paper, a steel shaft supported by two symmetrical journal bearings was used to investigate the system stability analysis. A test rig is designed and manufactured to examine the rotor’s dynamic behavior and verify the theoretical outcomes of the FE model, utilizing the bearing coefficients based on second-order analysis. Furthermore, this study compares the two fluids, both theoretically and experimentally, investigating their impact on the rotor-bearing system at different rotational speeds. The theoretical findings indicate that the threshold speed for journal bearings is significantly higher when using water as the lubricant fluid film compared to using oil as the lubricant fluid. Additionally, because of the low viscosity of water, water-lubricated bearings are susceptible to significant wear and noise in operating conditions. Our experiments show that an oil lubricant provides less response than a water lubricant for unbalanced rotors within the tested speed range.
Research on Velocity Feedforward Control and Precise Damping Technology of a Hydraulic Support Face Guard System Based on Displacement Feedback
Authors: Zeng Qingliang , Hu Yulong , Meng Zhaosheng , Wan Lirong
Published: September 2024

The hydraulic support face guard system is essential for supporting the exposed coal wall at the working face. However, the hydraulic support face guard system approaching the coal wall may cause impact disturbances, reducing the load-bearing capacity of coal walls. Particularly, the hydraulic support face guard system is characterized by a large turning radius when mining thick coal seams. A strong disturbance and impact on the coal wall may occur if the approaching speed is too fast, leading to issues such as rib spalling. In this paper, a feedforward fuzzy PID displacement velocity compound controller (FFD displacement speed compound controller) is designed. The PID controller, fuzzy PID controller, feedforward PID controller, and FFD displacement speed compound controller are compared in terms of the tracking characteristics of the support system and the impact response of the coal wall, validating the controller’s rationality. The results indicate that the designed FFD displacement speed compound controller has significant advantages. This controller maintains a tracking error range of less than 1% for target displacement with random disturbances in the system, with a response adjustment time that is 34% faster than the PID controller. Furthermore, the tracking error range for target velocity is reduced by 8.4% compared to the feedforward PID controller, reaching 13.8%. Additionally, the impact disturbance of the support system on the coal wall is suppressed by the FFD displacement speed compound controller, reducing the instantaneous contact impact between the support plate and the coal wall by 350 kN. In summary, the FFD compound controller demonstrates excellence in tracking responsiveness and disturbance rejection, enhancing the efficacy of hydraulic supports, and achieving precise control over the impact on the coal wall.
Strain-Rate and Stress-Rate Models of Nonlinear Viscoelastic Materials
Authors: Giorgi Claudio , Morro Angelo
Published: September 2024

The paper is devoted to the modeling of nonlinear viscoelastic materials. The constitutive equations are considered in differential form via relations between strain, stress, and their derivatives in the Lagrangian description. The thermodynamic consistency is established by using the Clausius–Duhem inequality through a procedure that involves two uncommon features. Firstly, the entropy production is regarded as a positive-valued constitutive function per se. This view implies that the inequality is in fact an equation. Secondly, this statement of the second law is investigated by using an algebraic representation formula, thus arriving at quite general results for rate terms that are usually overlooked in thermodynamic analyses. Starting from strain-rate or stress-rate equations, the corresponding finite equations are derived. It then emerges that a greater generality of the constitutive equations of the classical models, such as those of Boltzmann and Maxwell, are obtained as special cases.
Electric Vehicle Motor Fault Detection with Improved Recurrent 1D Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Kumar Prashant , Prince Prince , Sinha Ashish Kumar , Kim Heung Soo
Published: September 2024

The reliability of electric vehicles (EVs) is crucial for the performance and safety of modern transportation systems. Electric motors are the driving force in EVs, and their maintenance is critical for efficient EV performance. The conventional fault detection methods for motors often struggle with accurately capturing complex spatiotemporal vibration patterns. This paper proposes a recurrent convolutional neural network (RCNN) for effective defect detection in motors, taking advantage of the advances in deep learning techniques. The proposed approach applies long short-term memory (LSTM) layers to capture the temporal dynamics essential for fault detection and convolutional neural network layers to mine local features from the segmented vibration data. This hybrid method helps the model to learn complicated representations and correlations within the data, leading to improved fault detection. Model development and testing are conducted using a sizable dataset that includes various kinds of motor defects under differing operational scenarios. The results demonstrate that, in terms of fault detection accuracy, the proposed RCNN-based strategy performs better than the traditional fault detection techniques. The performance of the model is assessed under varying vibration data noise levels to further guarantee its effectiveness in practical applications.
Three-Valued Concept Analysis for 2R Formal Contexts
Authors: Zeng Taisheng , Zhi Huilai , Li Yinan , Zhu Daxin , Xiahou Jianbing
Published: September 2024

Russian Roulette is a well-known cruel gambling game and its concepts and methods have been exploited in a lot of research fields for decades. However, abundant useful information contained in the process of Russian Roulette is seldom studied with a mathematical model with interpretability. To this end, we define the 2R formal context to model Russian Roulette and carry out 3-valued concept analysis for 2R formal contexts to mine useful information. At first, the uniqueness of 2R formal contexts is discussed from a formal concept analysis viewpoint. And then we propose 3-valued 2R concepts and discuss their properties and the connections with the basic 2R concepts. Experimental analysis demonstrates that 3-valued 2R concept lattices can show many more different details compared with basic 2R concept lattices. Finally, a case study about a Chinese herbal medicine is introduced to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed model.
Analysis and Optimal Control of a Two-Strain SEIR Epidemic Model with Saturated Treatment Rate
Authors: Hu Yudie , Wang Hongyan , Jiang Shaoping
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we conducted a study on the optimal control problem of an epidemic model which consists of two strain with different types of incidence rates: bilinear and non-monotonic. We also considered use of the saturation treatment function. Two basic regeneration numbers are calculated from the epidemic model, which are denoted as R1 and R2. The global stability of the disease-free equilibrium point was studied by the Lyapunov method, and it was proved that the disease-free equilibrium point is globally asymptotically stable when R1 and R2 are less than one. Finally, we formulated a time-dependent optimal control problem by Pontryagin’s maximum principle. Numerical simulations were performed to establish the effects of model parameters for disease transmission as well as the effects of control.
Mitigating Multicollinearity in Regression: A Study on Improved Ridge Estimators
Authors: Akhtar Nadeem , Alharthi Muteb Faraj , Khan Muhammad Shakir
Published: September 2024

Multicollinearity, a critical issue in regression analysis that can severely compromise the stability and accuracy of parameter estimates, arises when two or more variables exhibit correlation with each other. This paper solves this problem by introducing six new, improved two-parameter ridge estimators (ITPRE): NATPR1, NATPR2, NATPR3, NATPR4, NATPR5, and NATPR6. These ITPRE are designed to remove multicollinearity and improve the accuracy of estimates. A comprehensive Monte Carlo simulation analysis using the mean squared error (MSE) criterion demonstrates that all proposed estimators effectively mitigate the effects of multicollinearity. Among these, the NATPR2 estimator consistently achieves the lowest estimated MSE, outperforming existing ridge estimators in the literature. Application of these estimators to a real-world dataset further validates their effectiveness in addressing multicollinearity, underscoring their robustness and practical relevance in improving the reliability of regression models.
On the Optimal Choice of Strike Conventions in Exchange Option Pricing
Authors: Alòs Elisa , Coulon Michael
Published: September 2024

An important but rarely-addressed option pricing question is how to choose appropriate strikes for implied volatility inputs when pricing more exotic multi-asset derivatives. By means of Malliavin calculus, we construct an asymptotically optimal log-linear strike convention for exchange options under stochastic volatility models. This novel approach allows us to minimize the difference between the corresponding Margrabe computed price and the true option price. We show that this optimal convention does not depend on the specific stochastic volatility model chosen and, furthermore, that parameter estimation can be dramatically simplified by using market observables as inputs. Numerical examples are given that provide strong support for the new methodology.
Therapy Response and Survival among Patients with Gynecologic Tumors Treated with Transarterial Chemoperfusion and Transarterial Chemoembolization
Authors: Vogl Thomas J. , Nica Andreea I. , Booz Christian , Alizadeh Leona S. , Becker Sven , Yel Ibrahim , Biciusca Teodora , Gökduman Aynur , Dimitrova Mirela , Wolfram Christian , Gruber-Rouh Tatjana , Bielfeldt John , Adwan Hamzah
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the tumor response relating to and survival benefit of transarterial chemoperfusion (TACP) and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in the treatment of patients with unresectable gynecologic tumors who are intolerant of or have a suboptimal response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Materials and Methods: Between January 2000 and October 2023, 75 patients diagnosed with gynecologic tumors underwent 213 TACP and 154 TACE procedures. Of these, 33 patients were treated with TACP, 20 were treated with TACE, and 22 received a combination of both therapies. A retrospective evaluation of local tumor response according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) was conducted, and survival rates were determined using the Kaplan–Meier estimator. Results: Of the total 75 patients, 50 (67%) maintained a stable course of disease until the completion of therapy, 10 (13%) had a partial response, 2 (3%) had a complete response following thermal ablation, and 13 (17%) experienced progression. Furthermore, a 6% reduction in the sum of the longest diameters and an 8% reduction in tumor volume were observed. The median overall survival was 16.15 months, while the median progression-free survival was 13.19 months. Conclusions: TACP and TACE are potential treatment options for local tumor control in patients with unresectable gynecologic tumors who are intolerant of or show a poor response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, further investigation and adjustment of treatment protocols are required to improve therapy response and survival outcomes.
Effect of Mg Addition on Molten Chloride Salt Corrosion Resistance of 310S Stainless Steel with Aluminum
Authors: Wei Ying , Cao Junjia , Yu Haicun , Sheng Jie , La Peiqing
Published: September 2024

As concentrated solar power (CSP) systems evolve, the new generation of CSP systems will utilize chloride molten salts, which are cost-effective and have high operating temperatures, but are highly corrosive. In order to reduce the corrosiveness of chloride salts, we investigated the addition of different levels of Mg to chloride salts to study the effect on corrosion. In this paper, the corrosion behavior of 310S stainless steel with aluminum in high-temperature molten salt NaCl-KCl-MgCl2 was studied. By adding different contents of magnesium corrosion inhibitor, the corrosion mechanism and the effect of the corrosion inhibitor were explored. The results show that the lowest corrosion rate of 6.623 mm/y was obtained for the aluminum-formed 310S with 0.05 wt.% Mg. However, the corrosion rate rises when the Mg content exceeds 0.05 wt.% compared to the corrosion rate of corroded specimens without Mg. Changing the added Mg content does not affect the corrosion products. For 310S stainless steel with aluminum, its corrosion inhibition was best achieved by adding 0.05 wt.% Mg to the chloride molten salt.
Bioactive Compound Diversity in a Wide Panel of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) Cultivars: A Resource for Nutritional Food Development
Authors: Nabot Marion , Garcia Cyrielle , Seguin Marc , Ricci Julien , Brabet Catherine , Remize Fabienne
Published: September 2024

Objectives: This study provides an overview of the composition of the raw root flesh of a panel of 22 sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) cultivars, with a focus on bioactive compounds. The large diversity of the proximate and phytochemical compositions observed between cultivars and within and between different flesh colors pointed out the importance of composition analysis and not only color choice for the design of foods with nutritional benefits. Methods: The nutritional composition (starch, protein, total dietary fibers) and bioactive compound composition of 22 cultivars from Reunion Island, maintained in the Vatel Biological Resource Center, were investigated. Results: Orange and purple cultivars stood out from white and yellow cultivars for their higher nutritional composition. Purple sweet potatoes were notable for their high contents of anthocyanins (55.7 to 143.4 mg/g dry weight (DW)) and phenolic compounds, in particular chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid, contributing to antioxidant activities, as well as their fiber content (14.1 ± 2.1% DW). Orange cultivars were rich in β-carotene (47.2 ± 0.7 mg/100 g DW) and to a lesser extent α-carotene (4.8 ± 1.2 mg/100 g DW). In contrast, certain white cultivars demonstrated suboptimal nutritional properties, rendering them less relevant even for applications where the lack of coloration in food is desired. Conclusions: Those characteristics enable the selection of sweet potato varieties to design food products ensuring optimal nutritional benefits and culinary versatility.
The Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation with or without Calcium on Vitamin D Epimer and Metabolites
Authors: Gariballa Salah , Al-Bluwi Ghada S. M. , Yasin Javed
Published: September 2024

Background: A possible role of vitamin D epimers and metabolites in the measurement and response to treatment of vitamin D has been reported recently. Furthermore, the influence of underlying vitamin D receptor (VDR) genetic polymorphisms which have been linked to diseases such as obesity remains unclear. We therefore aimed to examine the influence of vitamin D3 and calcium supplements on vitamin D epimer and metabolite concentrations in subjects with and those without vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms. Methods: A total of 277 participants who were part of a randomized intervention trial of vitamin D3 and calcium or a placebo for 6 months had clinical and anthropometric assessments. Blood samples were taken for measurements of vitamin D, epimers and metabolites of vitamin D, four vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism SNPs, namely, BsmI, FokI, TaqI, and ApaI, metabolic and inflammatory markers, and related biochemical variables. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to assess the between-group difference in cumulative changes in vitamin D epimers and metabolites at 6 months after adjusting for the presence of the 4 VDR genotypes and allele gene polymorphisms. Results: Overall, 277 participants, with a mean (±SD) age of 41 ± 12 and 204 (74%) of whom were female, were included in the study. We found no statistically significant differences in vitamin D metabolites or (epimers) between male and females or younger subjects compared to those over 40 years of age except in 7C4 BL (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference in 1,25(OH)2D3 concentrations between subjects with and those without genotypes AG and the allele G SNP2_Taql VDR gene polymorphism. Vitamin D3 concentrations were also significantly lower in subjects with the CC SNP3_Apal gene polymorphism compared to those without the CC SNP3 gene. No statistically significant effects were seen on vitamin D epimers and metabolites concentration in response to supplements before or after adjusting for the presence of the 4 VDR genotypes and allele gene polymorphisms. Conclusions: The CC SNP3 gene had statistically significant influence on vitamin D3 levels. Vitamin D and/or calcium supplements, however, had no effects on vitamin D epimer and metabolite concentration before or after adjusting for the presence of the 4 VDR genotypes and alleles.
Improved Quartz Flotation at Low Temperature by Amino Acid Lauryl Lysine as a Novel Green Collector
Authors: Wu Fei , Cao Shaohang , Yin Wanzhong , Fu Yafeng , Li Chao , Cao Yijun
Published: September 2024

A new type of amino acid surfactant, lauroyl lysine (LL), is used as a green collector for the low-temperature flotation of quartz. The micro-flotation test results indicate that, under flotation conditions of 10–40 °C, pH = 11.0, 20 mg/L CaCl2, and 60 mg/L LL, the highest recovery of quartz by LL could reach up to 97.08%. The temperature at which flotation occurs little impacts LL collection efficiency. In contrast, sodium oleate (NaOL) gives inferior performance to LL at all tested temperatures. The adsorption measurement and SEM-EDS results confirm that a quantity of LL is absorbed onto the quartz surface at low temperatures. Investigations into the interaction between the reagents and mineral surfaces are conducted using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis, zeta potential measurements, and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra. Findings indicate that LL is adsorbed onto the quartz surface through hydrogen bonds and intense chemisorption. Additionally, the amide groups in the LL molecular structure increase the solubility of the collector at low temperatures, and simultaneously, the amide bond can form an intermolecular hydrogen bond between O and H, which is conducive to quartz flotation.
Source Rock Evaluation and Hydrocarbon Expulsion Characteristics of Effective Source Rocks in the Fushan Depression, Beibuwan Basin, China
Authors: Wang Xirong , Jiang Fujie , Zheng Xiaowei , Chen Di , Qi Zhenguo , Liu Yilin , Guo Jing , Zhang Yuqi
Published: September 2024

This study presents an integrated approach using organic geochemistry and incident-light organic petrographic microscopy techniques to characterize the kerogen type, hydrocarbon potential, thermal maturity, and effective depositional environment of the Eocene Liushagang Formation intervals in the western Huangtong Sag, eastern Bailian Sag, central Huachang Sub-uplift, and Southern Slope Zone area in the Fushan Depression, Beibuwan Basin. The results show that the hydrocarbon potential of these organic-rich lacustrine shale areas is mainly dependent on the depositional environment and the present-day burial depth of sediments. Oscillations and transitions between (i) rocks with dominant allochthonous organic matter (including primary/reworked vitrinite and inertinite macerals and terrestrial debris particles) representing a large influence of continental sediments (e.g., source supply direction) and (ii) rocks with dominant autochthonous organic matter (e.g., alginite) indicate a distal and stable lacustrine basin depositional environment. The source rock thickness ranges from 40.1 to 387.4 m. The average TOC of the Liushagang Formation in the Fushan Sag is between 0.98% and 2.00%, with the highest organic matter abundance being in the first and second sections of the Liushagang Formation, presenting as high-quality source rocks. The organic matter is predominantly Type II1 and Type II2. The highest vitrinite reflectance (1.14%) is in the Huangtong and Bailian Sags. The source rocks of the second section of the Liushagang Formation are primary hydrocarbon generators, contributing 55.11% of the total generation. Hydrocarbon sequestration peaks at %Ro 0.80%, with a maximum efficiency of 97.7%. The cumulative hydrocarbon generation of the Liushagang Formation is 134.10 × 108 tons, with 50.52 × 108 tons having been expelled and 83.58 × 108 tons remaining. E2L2X and E2L2S have maximum hydrocarbon displacement intensities of 184.22 × 104 t/km² and 45.39 × 104 t/km², respectively, with cumulative displacements of 52.99 × 108 tons and 15.58 × 108 tons. The oil and gas accumulation system is highly prospective, showing significant exploration potential.
The Impact of the Polymer Layer Thickness in the Foundation Shim on the Stiffness of the Multi-Bolted Foundation Connection
Authors: Grzejda Rafał
Published: September 2024

Finite element modelling of multi-bolted foundation connections used for the foundation of heavy machinery or equipment is presented. Connections made using different types of shims, with particular emphasis on polymer–steel shims, are investigated. The stiffness characteristics for the adopted models of multi-bolted foundation connections at the installation stage are described and compared. It is shown that the use of polymer–steel shims can result in a significant improvement in the stiffness of a multi-bolted foundation connection compared to a connection with a polymer shim, and in achieving a multi-bolted foundation connection with a stiffness similar to that of a connection with a steel shim (at a sufficiently low polymer layer thickness).
High Polygenic Risk Scores Positively Associated with Gastric Cancer Risk Interact with Coffee and Polyphenol Intake and Smoking Status in Korean Adults
Authors: Liu Meiling , Song Sang-Shin , Park Sunmin
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: This study investigated the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and gastric cancer (GC) risk, while also examining the interaction of genetic factors with lifestyle variables including the nutrient and bioactive compound intake in Korean adults of a large hospital-based cohort. Methods: We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) comparing GC patients (n = 312) with healthy controls without cancers (n = 47,994) to identify relevant genetic variants. Generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR) was employed to detect SNP interactions between diets and lifestyles. We utilized polygenic risk scores (PRSs) to assess individuals’ GC risk based on multiple SNP loci. Among the selected SNPs, since SEMA3C_rs1527482 was a missense mutation, bioactive compounds which decrease the binding energy were found with its wild and mutated proteins by molecular docking analysis. Results: Individuals with high PRSs exhibited a 4.12-fold increased risk of GC compared to those with low PRSs. Additional factors associated with elevated GC risk included a low white blood cell count (OR = 5.13), smoking (OR = 3.83), and low coffee consumption (OR = 6.30). The SEMA3C_rs1527482 variant showed a positive correlation with GC risk. Molecular docking analyses suggested that certain polyphenols, including theaflavate, rugosin E, vitisifuran B, and plantacyanin, reduced the binding free energy in both wild-type and mutated SEMA3C_rs1527482. However, some polyphenols exhibited differential binding energies between its wild and mutated forms, suggesting they might modulate wild and mutated proteins differently. Conclusion: High PRSs and SEMA3C_rs1527482 interact with immune function, coffee intake, polyphenol consumption, and smoking status to influence GC risk. These findings could contribute to developing personalized nutrition and lifestyle interventions to reduce GC risk.
Association between Serum Zinc and All-Cause Mortality in Patients Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis: The Osaka Dialysis Complication Study (ODCS)
Authors: Nakatani Shinya , Shoji Tetsuo , Morioka Fumiyuki , Nakaya Rino , Ueda Mayuko , Uedono Hideki , Tsuda Akihiro , Morioka Tomoaki , Fujii Hisako , Yoshida Hisako , Mori Katsuhito , Emoto Masanori
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Zinc is an essential microelement, and its deficiency is common in patients undergoing hemodialysis. However, the association between serum zinc and mortality in these patients remains unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the possible association between serum zinc levels and all-cause mortality in prevalent patients with kidney failure on maintenance hemodialysis. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study of maintenance hemodialysis patients followed up for 5 years. The key exposure was serum zinc level measured at baseline, and the outcome was all-cause mortality. Their association was analyzed using Cox proportional hazard models. Results: Among 1662 eligible patients selected for this analysis, 468 (28%) died. Lower serum zinc levels were associated with a higher risk for mortality, independent of the major demographic factors and factors including mineral and bone disorder and renal anemia. However, this association was no longer significant when adjusted for serum albumin. Because there was a close correlation between serum zinc and albumin levels, we performed further analyses in which participants were categorized into four groups by median serum zinc (68 µg/dL) and albumin (3.7 g/dL) levels. In the lower serum albumin groups, risk of death was significantly higher in those with lower zinc than those with higher zinc levels, whereas such a difference was not significant in the high serum albumin groups. Conclusions: In patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis with lower serum albumin levels, a lower serum zinc level was associated with a higher risk of mortality.
The Efficacy of Ketogenic Diets (Low Carbohydrate; High Fat) as a Potential Nutritional Intervention for Lipedema: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Amato Alexandre Campos Moraes , Amato Juliana Lelis Spirandeli , Benitti Daniel Augusto
Published: September 2024

Background: Lipedema is a frequently misdiagnosed condition in women, often mistaken for obesity, which significantly deteriorates both quality of life and physical health. Recognizing the necessity for holistic treatment strategies, research has increasingly supported the integration of specific dietary approaches, particularly ketogenic diets focusing on low-carbohydrate and high-fat intake. Objectives: to evaluate the impact of ketogenic diets on women with lipedema through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted by reviewing published, peer-reviewed studies addressing the implications of a low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) ketogenic diet in managing lipedema following comprehensive scrutiny of digital medical databases, such as PubMed, PubMed Central, Science Direct, and the Web of Science. This research was governed by specified parameters, including an established search string composed of search terms and an eligibility criterion (PICO) as denoted by the principal authors. Statistical analysis was carried out using RevMan 5.4.1 software with the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale utilized for quality appraisal of the included studies. Results: Seven studies reporting statistical outcomes were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis following a rigorous quality appraisal and data identification process. Three hundred and twenty-nine female participants were diagnosed with lipedema and treated using a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet. Data analysis identified the high-fat diet with a mean study duration of 15.85 weeks. Mean Differences (MDs) on changes pre- and post-intervention showed significant reductions in BMI and total body weight [4.23 (95% CI 2.49, 5.97) p < 0.00001 and 7.94 (95% CI 5.45, 10.43) p < 0.00001 for BMI and body weight, respectively]. Other anthropometric measurements, such as changes in waist/hip circumferences and waist/hip ratios, showed a significant reduction in these parameters, with an MD of 8.05 (95% CI 4.66, 11.44) p < 0.00001 and an MD of 6.67 (95% CI 3.35, 9.99) p < 0.0001 for changes in waist and hip circumferences from baseline, respectively. Lastly, changes in pain sensitivity were statistically significant post-intervention [MD 1.12 (95% CI, 0.44, 1.79) p = 0.001]. All studies scored fair on the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Conclusions: despite the limited studies and low number of study participants, the review observed a significant reduction in anthropometric and body composition metrics, indicating a potentially beneficial association between LCHF ketogenic diets and lipedema management.
Micronutrient Intake during Complementary Feeding in Very Low Birth Weight Infants Comparing Early and Late Introduction of Solid Foods: A Secondary Outcome Analysis
Authors: Gsoellpointner Melanie , Thanhaeuser Margarita , Kornsteiner-Krenn Margit , Eibensteiner Fabian , Ristl Robin , Jilma Bernd , Brandstetter Sophia , Berger Angelika , Haiden Nadja
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: The complementary feeding period is crucial for addressing micronutrient imbalances, particularly in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. However, the impact of the timing of solid food introduction on micronutrient intake in a representative VLBW population remains unclear. Methods: This prospective, observational study investigated micronutrient intake during complementary feeding in VLBW infants categorized based on whether solids were introduced early (<17 weeks corrected age (CA)) or late (≥17 weeks CA). Nutritional intake was assessed using a 24 h recall at 6 weeks CA and with 3-day dietary records at 12 weeks and at 6, 9, and 12 months CA. Results: Among 218 infants, 115 were assigned to the early group and 82 to the late group. In total, 114–170 dietary records were valid for the final analysis at each timepoint. The timepoint of solid introduction did not affect micronutrient intake, except for a higher iron and phosphorus intake at 6 months CA in the early group (early vs. late: iron 0.71 vs. 0.58 mg/kg/d, adjusted p-value (p-adj.) = 0.04; phosphorus 341 vs. 286 mg/d, p-adj. = 0.04). Total vitamin D, calcium, zinc, and phosphorus greatly met intake recommendations; however, dietary iron intake was insufficient to equalize the iron quantity from supplements during the second half year CA. While nutrient intakes were similar between infants with and without comorbidities, breastfed infants had lower micronutrient intakes compared with formula-fed infants. Conclusions: This study suggests that micronutrient intakes were sufficient during complementary feeding in VLBW infants. However, prolonged iron supplementation may be necessary beyond the introduction of iron-rich solids. Further research is essential to determine micronutrient requirements for infants with comorbidities.
Exploring Intervention Frameworks to Improve Utilization of Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission Services in Africa: A Scoping Review
Authors: Mukomafhedzi Ndivhuwo , Tshitangano Takalani , Tshivhase Shonisani
Published: September 2024

Background: Over the past two decades, intervention strategies to improve the use of the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) services have been implemented for several reasons. The reasons include elimination of HIV infections during pregnancy, delivery, breastfeeding, prevention of HIV, prevention of unintended pregnancies, and safer conception. Poor utilization of EMTCT services has been proven to put the child at risk of acquiring HIV, which could have been avoided. Objective: This study aims to explore and describe interventions to promote the elimination of mother-to-child transmission services among pregnant and nursing mothers in Africa. Method: A scoping literature review technique was undertaken on research papers published in English that focused on EMTCT, barriers, interventions, and methods to address challenges to EMTCT utilization. These were screened independently and coded. Results: The analysis comprised 14 out of approximately 9029 literature sources. Intervention strategies to improve EMTCT service utilization, according to the findings, include accessibility and affordability, healthcare worker training, integrating the elimination of mother-to-child transmission into maternal and child health services, community-based interventions, family-centred approaches, and the use of technology. Conclusions: Interventions that increase women’s use of EMTCT services will contribute to the aim of HIV-free generation by reducing new HIV infections in children and saving lives.
Nurse-Driven Interventions Reduce Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection Close to Zero in One Pediatric Oncologic Facility: A Single-Center Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Turoldo Federico , Longo Antonella , Sala Mariavittoria , Valentini Denis , De Vita Nicole , Toniutti Sara , Zuppel Loredana , Maximova Natalia
Published: September 2024

Background: Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are critical infectious complications among pediatric hematology-oncology patients, and the management of central venous catheters (CVCs) by healthcare personnel can significantly influence the incidence of these infections. This study evaluates the impact of nurse-led changes in CVC management on the incidence of CLABSIs. Methods: This single-center, retrospective observational study was conducted at an urban, tertiary referral, and academic center serving pediatric patients. Results: The study cohort comprised 239 patients and 323 CVCs seen between 2012 and 2022. CLABSI was defined according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention definitions. Oncology nurse leaders developed CVC-specific educational modules for CLABSI prevention. All the relevant information during the CVC maintenance period was noted in the patient’s CVC logbook. A total of 24 (7%) cases of confirmed CLABSI were identified. The incidence of CVC-related infections was 0.32 cases per 1000 catheter days (95%CI: 0.19–0.45). The incidence decreased by 40% between the first and second three-year study period. Documented exit-site infection was reported in 32 (10%) cases. The correlation between exit-site infection and CLABSI was found in 9 (28%) cases. Our CVC-related infection rates are significantly lower than the incidence reported by the Italian Association of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, which settles at 3–5 cases per 1000 catheter days. Conclusions: Our data confirm the effectiveness of local CVC management guidelines in preventing CVC-related infectious complications.
Drug–Drug Interactions of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: A Pharmacovigilance Study on Real-World Evidence from the EudraVigilance Database
Authors: Dobrea Carmen Maximiliana , Frum Adina , Butuca Anca , Morgovan Claudiu , Stoicescu Laurentiu , Chis Adriana Aurelia , Arseniu Anca Maria , Rus Luca Liviu , Gligor Felicia Gabriela , Vonica-Tincu Andreea Loredana
Published: September 2024

As the most common psychiatric symptom, depression represents a subject of high interest for the medical community. Background/Objectives: International guidelines consider selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) the first-line treatment of depression. Although having better efficacy and tolerability in comparison to tricyclic antidepressants or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, the diversity and potential severity of adverse effects and interactions manifested by SSRIs, combined with the frequency of prescriptions, lead to the necessity of evaluating real-world data. The aim of this study was to identify and evaluate the drug interactions reported in EudraVigilance (EV) for the six SSRIs representatives that are authorized in Europe: fluoxetine (FXT), fluvoxamine (FVM), citalopram (CIT), escitalopram (ESC), paroxetine (PAR) and sertraline (SER). The entire class of SSRIs was examined as a comparator to identify whether one of the representatives was more prone to reporting. Methods: Descriptive analysis and disproportionality analysis were conducted on data extracted from the EV database. Results: A total of 326,450 adverse reactions (ADRs) were reported for the SSRIs group. Approximately a quarter of these (n = 83,201; 25.46%) were reported for SER and 22.37% (n = 73,131) for PAR. Of the total ADRs reported, 2.12% (n = 6925) represent preferred terms related to drug-drug interactions (DDIs): SER (n = 1474; 22.37%), CIT (n = 1272, 19.86), and FXT (n = 1309, 19.83%). Specific ADRs related to inhibitory activity represent 0.98%, and for potentiating activity, 1.89%. Conclusions: Although representing a small value of the total ADRs, DDIs may be related to severe outcomes. Awareness should be raised for this category of ADRs that can be reduced by the joined efforts of physicians and pharmacists.
Mulberry Twig Alkaloids Improved the Progression of Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice by Regulating the PGC1α/PPARα and KEAP1/NRF2 Pathways
Authors: Zhang Mengqing , Guo Chengcheng , Li Zonglin , Cai Xiaoling , Wen Xin , Lv Fang , Lin Chu , Ji Linong
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is one of the most common liver disorders associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome, and poses a significant global health burden with limited effective treatments. The aim of this study was to assess the protective effects of mulberry twig alkaloids (SZ-A) on MAFLD and to further investigate the underlying mechanisms including the specific targets or pathways. Methods: Diet-induced obesity (DIO) and normal mouse models were established by feeding C57Bl/6J mice with a high-fat diet (HFD) or common diet for 12 weeks. SZ-A, dapagliflozin, and placebo were administered to corresponding mouse groups for 8 weeks. Data of fasting blood glucose, glucose tolerance, insulin tolerance, and the body weight of mice were collected at the baseline and termination of the experiment. Serum liver enzymes and lipids were measured by ELISA. Western blotting, qPCR, and pathological section staining were implemented to evaluate the degrees of liver steatosis, fibrosis, and oxidative stress in mice. Results: In DIO mouse models, high-dose SZ-A (800 mg/kg/d) treatment significantly inhibited HFD-induced weight gain, improved insulin tolerance, and reduced serum alanine aminotransferase, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels compared with placebo. In DIO mice, SZ-A could alleviate the pathological changes of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis compared with placebo. Lipid catabolism and antioxidant stress-related proteins were significantly increased in the livers of the high-dose SZ-A group (p < 0.05). Inhibition of PGC1α could inhibit the function of SZ-A to enhance lipid metabolism in hepatocytes. PGC1α might interact with NRF2 to exert MAFLD-remedying effects. Conclusions: By regulating the expression of PGC1α and its interacting KEAP1/NRF2 pathway in mouse liver cells, SZ-A played important roles in regulating lipid metabolism, inhibiting oxidative stress, and postponing liver fibrosis in mice with MAFLD.
Electrospun PCL Nerve Wrap Coated with Graphene Oxide Supports Axonal Growth in a Rat Sciatic Nerve Injury Model
Authors: Harley-Troxell Meaghan E. , Steiner Richard , Newby Steven D. , Bow Austin J. , Masi Thomas J. , Millis Nicholas , Matavosian Alicia Adina , Crouch Dustin , Stephenson Stacy , Anderson David E. , Dhar Madhu
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) are a debilitating problem, resulting in diminished quality of life due to the continued presence of both chronic and acute pain. The current standard of practice for the repair of PNIs larger than 10 mm is the use of autologous nerve grafts. Autologous nerve grafts have limitations that often result in outcomes that are not sufficient to remove motor and sensory impairments. Bio-mimetic nanocomposite scaffolds combined with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent a promising approach for PNIs. In this study, we investigated the potential of an electrospun wrap of polycaprolactone (PCL) + graphene oxide (GO), with and without xenogeneic human adipose tissue-derived MSCs (hADMSCs) to use as a platform for neural tissue engineering. Methods: We evaluated, in vitro and in vivo, the potential of the nerve wrap in providing support for axonal growth. To establish the rat sciatic nerve defect model, a 10 mm long limiting defect was created in the rat sciatic nerve of 18 Lewis rats. Rats treated with the nanocomposites were compared with autograft-treated defects. Gait, histological, and muscle analyses were performed after sacrifice at 12 weeks post-surgery. Results: Our findings demonstrate that hADMSCs had the potential to transdifferentiate into neural lineage and that the nanocomposite successfully delivered hADMSCs to the injury site. Histologically, we show that the PCL + GO nanocomposite with hADMSCs is comparable to the autologous nerve graft, to support and guide axonal growth. Conclusions: The novel PCL + GO nerve wrap and hADMSCs used in this study provide a foundation on which to build upon and generate future strategies for PNI repair.
Novel Anti-Trop2 Nanobodies Disrupt Receptor Dimerization and Inhibit Tumor Cell Growth
Authors: Deng Junwen , Geng Zhongmin , Luan Linli , Jiang Dingwen , Lu Jian , Zhang Hanzhong , Chen Bingguan , Liu Xinlin , Xing Dongming
Published: September 2024

Background: Trop2 (trophoblast cell-surface antigen 2) is overexpressed in multiple malignancies and is closely associated with poor prognosis, thus positioning it as a promising target for pan-cancer therapies. Despite the approval of Trop2-targeted antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs), challenges such as side effects, drug resistance, and limited efficacy persist. Recent studies have shown that the dimeric forms of Trop2 are crucial for its oncogenic functions, and the binding epitopes of existing Trop2-targeted drugs lie distant from the dimerization interface, potentially limiting their antitumor efficacy. Method: A well-established synthetic nanobody library was screened against Trop2-ECD. The identified nanobodies were extensively characterized, including their binding specificity and affinity, as well as their bioactivities in antigen-antibody endocytosis, cell proliferation, and the inhibition of Trop2 dimer assembly. Finally, ELISA based epitope analysis and AlphaFold 3 were employed to elucidate the binding modes of the nanobodies. Results: We identified two nanobodies, N14 and N152, which demonstrated high affinity and specificity for Trop2. Cell-based assays confirmed that N14 and N152 can facilitate receptor internalization and inhibit growth in Trop2-positive tumor cells. Epitope analysis uncovered that N14 and N152 are capable of binding with all three subdomains of Trop2-ECD and effectively disrupt Trop2 dimerization. Predictive modeling suggests that N14 and N152 likely target the epitopes at the interface of Trop2 cis-dimerization. The binding modality and mechanism of action demonstrated by N14 and N152 are unique among Trop2-targeted antibodies. Conclusions: we identified two novel nanobodies, N14 and N152, that specifically bind to Trop2. Importantly, these nanobodies exhibit significant anti-tumor efficacy and distinctive binding patterns, underscoring their potential as innovative Trop2-targeted therapeutics.