bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
N-[3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-5-bromo-2-hydroxybenzamide Analogues: Novel Acetyl- and Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibitors
Authors: Krátký Martin , Jaklová Karolína , Štěpánková Šárka , Svrčková Katarína , Pflégr Václav , Vinšová Jarmila
Published: August 2020

Background:

Development of acetyl- (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) inhibitors
belongs to viable strategies for the treatment of dementia and other diseases related to decrease in cholinergic
neurotransmission. Objective: That is why we designed twenty-two analogues of a dual AChEBuChE
salicylanilide inhibitor, N-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-5-bromo-2-hydroxybenzamide 1, to
improve its potency.

Methods:

We prepared N,N-disubstituted (thio)carbamates via direct acylation with (thio)carbamoyl
chloride, N-n-alkyl monosubstituted carbamates using isocyanates as well as its salicylanilide core analogues.
The derivatives were evaluated in vitro against AChE from electric eel and BuChE from equine
serum using spectrophotometric Ellman’s method.

Results:

The compounds showed moderate inhibition of both AChE and BuChE with IC50 from 18.2 to
196.6 μmol.L-1 and 9.2 to 196.2 μmol.L-1, respectively. Importantly, based on the substitution pattern, it
is possible to modulate selectivity against AChE or BuChE and some derivatives also produced a balanced
inhibition. In general, the most promising analogues were N-alkyl (C2-C6) carbamates and isomers
with a changed position of phenolic hydroxyl. N-[3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-3-bromo-5-
hydroxybenzamide 4a was the best inhibitor of both cholinesterases.

Conclusion:

A wide range of the derivatives improved the activity of the hit 1, they were superior to
carbamate drug rivastigmine against AChE and some of them also against BuChE. The most promising
derivatives also fit physicochemical space and structural features for CNS drugs together with an escalated
lipophilicity.
Beyond DNA-targeting in Cancer Chemotherapy. Emerging Frontiers - A Review
Authors: Mbugua Simon N. , Njenga Lydia W. , Odhiambo Ruth A. , Wandiga Shem O. , Onani Martin O.
Published: August 2020

Modern anti-cancer drugs target DNA specifically for rapid division of malignant cells. One
downside of this approach is that they also target other rapidly dividing healthy cells, such as those involved
in hair growth leading to serious toxic side effects and hair loss. Therefore, it would be better to
develop novel agents that address cellular signaling mechanisms unique to cancerous cells, and new research
is now focussing on such approaches. Although the classical chemotherapy area involving DNA
as the set target continues to produce important findings, nevertheless, a distinctly discernible emerging
trend is the divergence from the cisplatin operation model that uses the metal as the primary active center
of the drug. Many successful anti-cancer drugs present are associated with elevated toxicity levels.
Cancers also develop immunity against most therapies and the area of cancer research can, therefore, be
seen as an area with a high unaddressed need. Hence, ongoing work into cancer pathogenesis is important
to create accurate preclinical tests that can contribute to the development of innovative drugs to
manage and treat cancer.

:

Some of the emergent frontiers utilizing different approaches include nanoparticles delivery, use of
quantum dots, metal complexes, tumor ablation, magnetic hypothermia and hyperthermia by use of Superparamagnetic
Iron oxide Nanostructures, pathomics and radiomics, laser surgery and exosomes.

:

This review summarizes these new approaches in good detail, giving critical views with necessary comparisons.
It also delves into what they carry for the future, including their advantages and disadvantages.
Sol-gel Synthesis of Boron Doped TiO2/hollow Glass Bubbles Composite Powders for Photocatalytic Degradation of Azophloxine
Authors: Zhang Wenjie , Liu Yuxuan
Published: August 2020

Background:

B-TiO2 was supported on the surface of iM16K glass bubbles to achieve a suitable density for the
B-TiO2/iM16K composite hollow spheres. Aeration or stirring in the wastewater can lead to thorough mixing of
photocatalyst and wastewater. Solid-water separation is quite easy because the materials can float on the water surface
while stopping aeration or stirring.

Methods:

The iM16K glass bubbles were used to prepare boron-doped B-TiO2/iM16K composite hollow spheres through
a sol-gel route. The materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform
infrared spectroscopy, UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectrometry, and N2 adsorption-desorption techniques.
Photocatalytic degradation of azophloxine on the composites was determined.

Results:

The bandgap energy of the B-TiO2/iM16K composite was slightly less than 3.0 eV when the calcination
temperature was below 500oC. The sample calcined at 350oC had a BET surface area of 88.6 m2
/g, while the value of the
sample calcined at 800oC was 1.2 m2
/g. The maximum photocatalytic degradation efficiency was obtained for the sample
calcined at 450oC, and nearly all of the original azophloxine molecules were decomposed after 120 min of irradiation.
Photocatalytic degradation efficiency after 30 min of irradiation was enhanced from 18.8% to 47.9% when B-TiO2 dosage
increased from 100 to 800 mg/L.

Conclusion:

Crystallization of anatase TiO2 was temperature dependent, and the properties of B-TiO2/iM16K composite
hollow spheres were affected by phase composition of the boron-doped TiO2 layer. The change in calcination temperature
can have significant effect on photocatalytic degradation of azophloxine. The production of hydroxyl radical depended on
photocatalytic activity of the B-TiO2/iM16K composite hollow spheres.
Sodium Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitor Treatment and the Risk of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Denmark: A Retrospective Cohort Study of Five Years of Use
Authors: Laursen Henrik V.B. , Røikjer Johan B. , Dal Jakob , Jensen Morten Hasselstrøm
Published: August 2020

Background:

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have been associated
with increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in both people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes
mellitus. Few studies using data from high-quality registries exist that attempt to determine the real-
world impact of the increasing use of this drug.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and risk of DKA in connection
with SGLT2i treatment in Denmark between 2013-2017.

Method:

A nationwide retrospective cohort of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus using SGLT2i
or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RA) was established and analysed using both
Cox-proportional hazard regression and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.

Result:

The 37,058 individuals included in the cohort, were made up of SGLT2i (10,923), GLP1-
RA (18,849), SGLT2i+insulin (2,069), and GLP1-RA+insulin (10,178) users. The incidence rate
(IR) of DKA was 0.84 (95% CI 0.49-1.44) and 0.53 (95% CI 0.36-0.77) for the SGLT2i and
GLP1-RA groups, respectively. There was no statistically significant increase in the risk for DKA
with SGLT2i use (HR 1.02, 95% CI, 0.44-2.36). However, for the SGLT2i+insulin and GLP1-
RA+insulin groups, IRs were 3.47 (95% CI 1.92-6.27) and 0.97 (95% CI 0.68-1.37) respectively,
and the risk was statistically significantly higher (HR 5.42, 95% CI 2.16-13.56).

Conclusion:

We observed no significant increase in the risk of DKA for SGLT2i users compared
to GLP1-RA. However, a significantly higher IR of DKA was observed with concomitant insulin
use, and the risk of DKA was considerably higher for the SGLT2 group using insulin.
Predicting Hub Genes of Glioblastomas Based on a Support Vector Machine Combined with CFS Algorithms
Authors: Qiu Chun , Li Sai , Yang Shenghui , Wang Lin , Zeng Aihui , Zhang Xufeng
Published: August 2020

Aim:

To search the genes related to the mechanisms of the occurrence of glioma and to try to
build a prediction model for glioblastomas.

Background:

The morbidity and mortality of glioblastomas are very high, which seriously endanger
human health. At present, the goals of many investigations on gliomas are mainly to understand the
cause and mechanism of these tumors at the molecular level and to explore clinical diagnosis and
treatment methods. However, there is no effective early diagnosis method for this disease, and there are
no effective prevention, diagnosis, or treatment measures.

Methods:

Firstly, the gene expression profiles derived from GEO were downloaded. Then, differentially
expressed genes (DEGs) in the disease samples and the control samples were identified. After
that, GO and KEGG enrichment analyses of DEGs were performed by DAVID. Furthermore, the correlation-
based feature subset (CFS) method was applied to the selection of key DEGs. In addition, the
classification model between the glioblastoma samples and the controls was built by a Support Vector
Machine (SVM) based on selected key genes.

Results and Discussion:

Thirty-six DEGs, including 17 upregulated and 19 downregulated genes, were
selected as the feature genes to build the classification model between the glioma samples and the control
samples by the CFS method. The accuracy of the classification model by using a 10-fold crossvalidation
test and the independent set test was 76.25% and 70.3%, respectively. In addition, PPP2R2B
and CYBB can also be found in the top 5 hub genes screened by the protein-protein interaction (PPI)
network.

Conclusions:

This study indicated that the CFS method is a useful tool to identify key genes in glioblastomas. In addition,
we also predicted that genes such as PPP2R2B and CYBB might be potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of
glioblastomas.
Feasibility Study for the Establishment of a Multi-Story Car Park, A Case Study
Authors: Ellk Dunya S. , Mohsin Alyaa H. , Hasan Sada A.
Published: August 2020

Background:

Cars cruising to search out a parking zone represent a key component of the traffic on urban university campuses.

Objective:

The research aims to prepare a feasibility study for a multi-story car park for Engineering College /Mustansiriayah University through public-private partnership as a solution for parking problems which consumes a lot of time and effort.

Methods:

At first, theoretical information was collected about the subject of the research; a field survey was conducted to estimate parking demand and supply. A feasibility study was prepared for a proposed four-story car park.

Results:

The field survey showed that the current car park accommodates only 48% of the peak demand, so the rest of the cars are parked in an irregular manner. The proposed multi-story car park was estimated to have a maximum capacity of 560 cars and an investment cost of (4,140,875$).

Conclusion:

The economic indicators of the project showed that it would achieve a Simple Rate of Return 5.49% of the investment cost. It has a positive net present value at 5% rate of discount, which means it is feasible, and has an internal rate of return 8.1%, also the payback period is 10 years, which means that the investor will have his investment back after 10 years of operating the project. This research contributes to the body of information by including community participation in the procurement of infrastructure.
Human Brucellosis as an Epidemic Zoonosis in Zenica-Doboj Canton (Bosnia and Herzegovina) During 2008-2018
Authors: Uzunović Selma , Skomorac Muhamed , Bašić Fatima , Kamberović Farah , Ibrahimagić Amir , Dizdarević Jasmin
Published: August 2020

Background:

Brucellosis is associated with people living in close proximity to their animals, where conditions for disease onset and spread exist. An epidemic of brucellosis in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) has persisted since 2004. Zenica-Doboj Canton is one of the most affected areas.

Objective:

To investigate the epidemiological characteristics of human brucellosis from the year 2008 to2018.

Methods:

Data collected from paper-based patients/cases reported to the Epidemiology Department were analyzed.

Results:

After 2008, the annual number of patients diagnosed with brucellosis was decreasing, except in 2017 and 2018 with 20 and 35 cases, respectively. Within the 2008-2018 period, a total of 263 human brucellosis cases were recorded, decreasing from 102 (incidence of 44.7/100,000) cases in 2008 to three cases in 2012, but increased to 35 cases in 2018. Males were predominant, with a total of 205 (77.9%) cases. The mean age of the affected patients was 39.2 years; but the most affected age group was the 25-49 years age group with 117 (44.5%) cases. Most cases (151 cases, 66%) were reported during the period of March-July, and 242 (92%) cases were from the rural areas.

Conclusion:

With the implementation of the small ruminant vaccination program in 2009, the number of infected humans had declined, while brucellosis still remains.
Role of Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase (PTPN22) Gene [C1858T] Functional Variant in Genetic Susceptibility of Psoriatic Arthritis in Kuwaiti Arabs
Authors: Al-Awadhi Adel M. , Haider Mohammad Z. , Sukumaran Jalaja , Mohammed Asiya T. , Hasan Eman AH , Bartella Youssef A.
Published: August 2020

Background:

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic, systemic inflammatory arthritic disease characterized by joint inflammation that is associated with cutaneous psoriasis, and can lead to pain, swelling, or stiffness in one or more joints. It results from a complex interplay between genetic, immunologic and environmental factors. A functional variant [C1858T] in the protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTPN22) gene, which encoded Arg620Trp in the lymphoid protein tyrosine phosphatase (LYP) has been shown to be a negative regulator of T-cell activation.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to investigate an association between PTPN22 gene [C1858T] functional variant and PsA in Kuwaiti patients.

Methods:

We have investigated the association of PTPN22 gene functional variant in 102 Kuwaiti patients with psoriatic arthritis and compared it to that in 214 healthy controls. The genotypes for the PTPN22 gene [C1858T] variant were determined by using a PCR-RFLP method and confirmed by DNA sequence analysis.

Results:

The frequency of homozygous variant genotype (TT) was found to be significantly higher in PsA patients compared to that in the controls (p <0.0001). Collectively, the variant genotype was detected in homozygous and heterozygous combinations in 30% patients (p <0.0001) compared to 16% in the controls. The frequency of variant genotype was found to be highest in the early-onset PsA patients (age >25-34y). No correlation was detected between the variant genotype (TT) and gender in the Kuwaiti PsA patients.

Conclusion:

Our data show a significant association of PTPN22 gene functional variant [C1958T] with PsA in Kuwaiti patients and highlight its role in determining the genetic susceptibility along with other factors.
The Hip in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Goodman Stuart B.
Published: August 2020

The hip joint is commonly affected in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), especially in cases of systemic polyarticular disease. Chronic synovitis of the hip leads to joint destruction, therefore, systemic and local control of the disease is of paramount importance. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs), biologics, intra-articular corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy are the mainstay for controlling ongoing inflammation and hip joint contractures. Synovectomy with soft tissue releases is useful in the early stages of the disease, when the joint cartilage is largely preserved. Total joint arthroplasty (THA) is successful in relieving pain, and improving function, ambulation and range of motion in end-stage degenerative arthritis. With improved designs of smaller prostheses and modern bearing couples, it is hoped that the longevity of THA will facilitate a more normal and enduring lifestyle.
Morphological Characterization and Genetic Diversity of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Varieties Cultivated in Ethiopia
Authors: Mawcha Kahsay T. , Gebru Mulubrhan M. , Assefa Mewael K. , Mesfin Mebrahtom , Gebre Girma G.
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

The experiments were conducted to identify and group sesame genotypes by morphological and genetic characteristics.

Materials and Methods:

Ten nationally released sesame genotypes were obtained from Humera and Melka-Worer research centers and planted at Humera experimental sites. The number of primary branches per plant was found higher (5.93) for M-80. However, the number of nodes per plant was grouped as ‘more’ (24.13) for M-80 compared to Humera-1, which was grouped as the ‘highest’ (26.13). Plant height was tall in all the sesame genotypes studied. Likewise, the number of nodes per plant in all the genotypes was grouped as more nodes per plant i.e. greater than 15. The leaf length ranged from 7.769 cm to 6.67 cm and genotypes, Argene and K-74 had the lowest and the highest values, respectively. The variation was least in qualitative characteristics like flower colour, number of locules per pod, pod pubescence, and type of pod beak. Thousand seed weight and seed yield per kg per ha had a significance level at P=0.05. Pod length was found to be varied among the genotypes and grouped as ‘long “with a mean pod length of 2.44 cm. Hence, genotypes having a long pod length might be preferred for seed production.

The genetic characters of the genotypes were characterized and the level of polymorphism for the selected primers ranged from 56.25% to 100%. ISSR-880 was found with the least level of polymorphism while the other three (ISSR-811, ISSR-812 and ISSR-860,) were found with a high level of polymorphism. Five sesame genotypes (ADI, Humera1, Serkamo, M-80 and E) were clustered and grouped together, while three genotypes, namely, Argena, K-74, and S-Breeder appeared to have their own cluster separately.

Results:

Our study indicates that agro-morphological and genetic characterization of genotypes is useful and effective in determining polymorphisms in the sesame genotypes molecular genotyping, reproducible and it can also produce enough polymorphism to cluster and identify the genotypes.

Conclusion:

The findings presented in this paper may prove useful in the future to include more ISSR markers and induvial genotype investigation for detailed characterization of sesame germplasm that would be important for future breeding and sesame improvement program.
Group Play Therapy for Preadolescents: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder of Natural Disaster Victims in Indonesia
Authors: Rusmana Nandang , Hafina Anne , Suryana Dodi
Published: August 2020

Background:

This study was motivated by the failure of coping and adaptation to traumatic experiences that cause a wide, deep, and long-term snowball effect that may not be reversible.

Objective:

This study aims to test the effectiveness of the implementation of group play therapy in dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) victims of natural disasters in three provinces in Indonesia.

Materials and Methods:

The study employed an explanatory mixed methods design. The procedures and steps taken in this study refer to the research and development cycle. The subjects and objects of the study were 106 male and 92 female preadolescent students of junior high school in three provinces in Indonesia.

Results:

Traumatic counselling through group play therapy techniques has the effect of reducing post-traumatic stress disorder on victims of the tsunami disaster in three provinces in Indonesia. The first study conducted in Lombok West Nusa Tenggara province obtained the results of the calculation of the value μ2 = 0.021 for the value of μ1> 0.05. The second study in Palu, Central Sulawesi Province obtained the results of the calculation of the value of μ2 = 0.018 for the value of μ1> 0.05, and the third study in Anyer, Banten province obtained the results of the calculation of the value of µ2 = 0.011 for the value of µ1 > 0.05.

Conclusion:

Teaching and practising the skills of traumatic counselling using using Group Play Therapy can handle PTSD victims of natural disasters that significantly change victims.
Traditional and Advanced Neuroimaging Contributions to the Diagnosis and Differential Diagnosis of Central Nervous System Lymphoma Patients Visiting a Comprehensive Medical Center
Authors: El Dirani Ali , Hachem Zahraa , Mohanna Assaad , Zaylaa Amira J.
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

The diagnosis of Central Nervous System Lymphoma, especially the Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma is carried out based on brain imaging, thus avoiding an unnecessary extend of surgery. But the traditional imaging techniques, such as Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, were not satisfactory.

Aims:

This study was conducted to characterize the spectrum of advanced Neuroimaging, such as the advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging features in the Central Nervous System Lymphoma patients in a comprehensive medical center in Lebanon, and compare them to what has been described in the literature review.

Methods:

It is a retrospective exploratory study of the clinical data and imaging features for patients admitted to the emergency and radiology departments with ages above 10 years, and who were diagnosed histopathologically with intracranial lymphoma. This study may be the first to make a Radiological evaluation of Central Nervous System Lymphoma on the local population of patients over 9 years .

Results:

Results showed that the study of the Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging data of 10 immunocompetent patients with Central Nervous System Lymphoma concurs with the previously described patient populations, except for the gender parameter. Tumors were mostly presented in the fifth or Sixth decade and they could be solitary or multi-focal. Lesions were typically located Preprint submitted to The Open Neuroimaging Journal May 14, 2020 in the supratentorial compartment. On the brain Computed Tomography, the lesions were hyperdense, and in pre-contrast Magnetic Resonance images, the lesions appeared hypointense on T1 and hyperintense on T2-Weighted images, but hypointense with respect to the grey matter. The lesions were also surrounded with a mild to moderate edema as compared to other intracranial neoplasms, such as glioblastomas. Evaluation results showed that on post-contrast Magnetic Resonance images, the majority of lesions exhibited a homogeneous enhancement of 50%. Majority of the lesions also showed a less common heterogeneous ring-like enhancement of 40%, and revealed the uncommon absence of enhancement of 10%. Calcifications, hemorrhage, and necrosis were rare findings and were present in only one patient.

Conclusion:

As a future prospect, studying whether the advanced imaging techniques may provide not only non-invasive and morphological characteristics but also non-invasive biological characteristics and thus accurate diagnosis could be considered.
Corrosion Effect of Rice Husk Ash in Concrete Pore Solution: Response Surface Analysis
Authors: Ayobami Busari , Williams Kupolati , Tolulope Loto , Emmanuel Sadiku , Snyman Jacques , Julius Ndambuki
Published: August 2020

Background:

Corrosion of reinforcement impedes the structural integrity of concrete infrastructures by reducing the flexural, shear and axial strength of concrete, thereby making it structurally weak.

Aim:

This research assessed the corrosion effect of rice husk as a concrete constituent for the design of long-lasting concrete infrastructures.

Materials and Methods:

To achieve the aim of this research, rice husk was air-dried for two days and then burnt at a temperature of 600oC. It was used as a partial replacement for cement at 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% replacement of cement. The concrete pore solution was extracted by mechanical means. This was used as the medium to assess the weight loss and calculate the corrosion rate at seventy-two (72) hours interval with a focus on the temperature of the environment. The corrosion inhibition of the steel rebar was determined using the weight loss method.

Results:

The result was analysed and modelled using a response surface analysis. The optimisation of the corrosion effect was also assessed using the same method. The result of the study revealed that the inhibition efficiency based on the average corrosion rate was -69.54%, which indicates that 5% of rice husk ash does not inhibit corrosion, likewise the other replacements. The corrosion inhibition of 15% replacement with rice husk ash is slightly higher than the control sample. The research revealed that the most favourable replacement in terms of corrosion rate in comparison to the other percentages is 15%.

Conclusion:

The mathematical model showed that RHA has a positive effect on the corrosion rate of mild steel. This indicates that the higher the RHA, the lower the corrosion rate. The outcome of this research will serve as a guide for concrete users, engineers, corrosion experts and researchers on the use of rice husk ash in concrete production.
McKenzie-type Exercises Improve the Functional Abilities of a Patient with Recurrent Herniated Discs: A Case Report
Authors: Al-horani Ramzi A. , Batainah Ahmad S. , Shamroukh Nabil , Abumoh'd Mohammad F.
Published: August 2020

This case is unique in which the patient had two previous lumbar spinal surgeries, recurrent herniated discs, and new bulged and herniated discs were developed. We aimed to investigate whether implementing the McKenzie method would reduce the symptoms of a long history of Low Back Pain (LBP) with multiple surgeries. A 2-months of McKenzie-type exercise program was performed at a rate of 5 days/week. Disability index, pain intensity, lumbar Range of Motion (ROM), and lower limb strength were tested before and after the exercise treatment intervention. Disability and pain were also measured at 3-months follow-up. The Oswestry disability index and pain visual analogue scale score reduced immediately after the treatment intervention and remained reduced at 3-months follow-up from 44% to 22%, and from 8 to 4, respectively. Lumbar ROM improved about 1.5 cm during standing flexion and 3 cm during extension. Unilateral leg extension of the affected leg and bilateral leg press increased by 16.5 kg and 70 kg, respectively. The current protocol has shown that Mckenzie-type exercise treatment can improve the physical functions and reduce pain in a patient with a history of lumbar spine surgeries and prolonged LBP. In addition, despite no additional exercise, McKenzie method increased the lower limb strength, possibly through nerve root decompression.
Role of Vitamin D Receptor in Prediabetes
Authors: Kharb Simmi , Goel Kanika , Rajput Rajesh
Published: August 2020

Background:

Recent epidemiological evidence points towards the potential association of vitamin D insufficiency with adverse metabolic risk and in the pathogenesis of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and other diseases. Vitamin D exerts its action in a variety of cell types through vitamin D receptors. No reports are available in the literature regarding vitamin D and vitamin D receptor status in prediabetics. The present study was planned to compare serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] and vitamin D receptor (VDR) protein levels in prediabetic cases and normoglycemic controls.

Methods:

The present study was conducted in 80 persons who were divided into two groups, Study group (n= 40) comprised of diagnosed cases of prediabetes and control group (n=40) comprised of healthy normoglycemic controls. Serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] was analyzed by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Serum vitamin D receptor (VDR) protein was analyzed by sandwich enzyme immunoassay (ELISA).

Results:

Serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels were significantly decreased in prediabetic cases as compared to normoglycemic controls [p<0.001]. Serum Vitamin D receptor protein levels were highly significantly decreased in prediabetic cases as compared to normoglycemic controls [p<0.00]. Serum 25(OH)D levels showed a highly significant positive correlation with serum VDR levels in both the groups [p<0.001 at both levels].

Conclusion:

The findings of the present study indicate that vitamin D and VDR can serve as a possible screening marker and target for modulation of the management and alleviating the progress and complications of diabetes.
Antibiofilm Activity of ZnO/Zeolite Nanocomposite (ZnO/ZeoNC) Against Klebsiella pneumoniae and its Biocompatibility in an Animal Model
Authors: Partoazar Alireza , Bideskan Fatemeh Rahmani , Takzaree Nasrin , Dallal Mohammad Mehdi Soltan
Published: August 2020

Background:

Infectious diseases, whether intracellular or extracellular infections, biofilm-
mediated, or medical device-associated, have always been a global public health problem,
causing millions of deaths each year. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibiofilm activity
of ZnO/ZeoNC against K. pneumoniae along with the biocompatibility of the nanocomposite in vivo
model.

Objective:

The formation of biofilm by K. pneumoniae in the catheter-associated urinary tract
causes a nosocomial infection. In this regard, antimicrobial nanomaterials have emerged as potent
effective agents against biofilm formation. Nevertheless, nanoparticles have already been a challenge
with possible side effects such as inflammation. The ZnO/ZeoNC may exhibit anti-biofilm
property with minimal adverse effects.

Methods:

The biofilm formation of K. pneumoniae strains was exposed to ZnO/ZeoNC and then
SEM imaging was performed for morphological investigation of bacteria in biofilm state. The response
to ZnO/ZeoNC embedded polyethylene tube of the tissue of mice was also analyzed during
the 30-day experiment.

Results:

The results of this study showed that ZnO/ZeoNC has significant antibiofilm activity
against K. pneumoniae strains in its sublethal doses. The ZnO/ZeoNC also caused deformation in
K. pneumoniae biofilm. In addition, ZnO/ZeoNC also reduced inflammatory response in cell tissue
of rats subjected to polyethylene tube.

Conclusion:

ZnO/ZeoNC can be used potentially against the infections caused by K. pneumonia
biofilm without any irritability on the biotic surface such as the urinary tract.
Fate and Applications of Superporous Hydrogel Systems: A Review
Authors: Jhawat Vikas , Gulia Monika , Maddiboyina Balaji , Dutt Rohit , Gupta Sumeet
Published: August 2020

Hydrogels are a class of biomaterial that can “take in” large quantities of aqueous
media and swells many times larger than its original size without dissolving in the media.
SPHs are a new generation of hydrogels containing a 3D network of cross-linked polymers
having pore size more than 100 μm as compared to 10 nm to 10 μm pores of conventional
gels. These are more complex in nature than conventional hydrogels and prepared
by using a suitable blend of monomers and different additives. SPHs have been extensively
employed in sustained and control drug delivery systems along with many recent
biomedical applications such as in tissue engineering, immunotherapy, arthritis and ophthalmic
drug delivery. Scientists are constantly working on improving the features and
properties of SPHs to enable them more suitable for therapeutic and biomedical applications.
The present study briefly reviews the composition, evaluation and applications of
SPHs in different areas. Applications are facilitated by the fact that SPHs are generally biocompatible
in nature and resemble natural living tissue more than any other class of synthetic
biomaterial.
KCs molecular bands in the visible region-=SUP=-*-=/SUP=-
Authors: Beuc Robert , Pichler Goran , Sarkisyan David
Published: August 2020

We measured light absorption of potassium and cesium mixed vapors at temperatures 360-660o in the visible spectral region 380-780 nm. By comparison with the absorption of pure potassium or cesium vapors, we concluded that the spectral phenomena observed in the mixture peaking at 539 nm, 562 nm (and 700 nm) are new KCs molecular bands. Quantum mechanical calculations of the KCs molecular bands in the visible and near-infrared spectral region were performed using available theoretical potential curves for the KCs molecule. Using these calculations, we identified the three observed molecular bands as 31-X, 41Sigma+-X and 11- X electronic transitions of KCs molecule respectively. Key words: potassium and cesium mixed vapors, absorption spectra, KCs molecular bands, quantum mechanical calculations.
О причинах асимметричности формы контура колебательной полосы ν-=SUB=-1-=/SUB=-(A-=SUB=-1-=/SUB=-) в спектрах комбинационного рассеяния света расплава LiNO-=SUB=-3-=/SUB=-
Authors: Гафуров М.М. , Рабаданов К.Ш. , Атаев М.Б. , Махмудов С.Ш.
Published: August 2020

The reasons leading to asymmetry of shape of ν1 (A1) contour of nitrate ion in Raman spectra of lithium nitrate melts are discussed. It is shown that the application of Rothschild - Yao theory gives best agreement between the calculated and experimental spectra. However, physical meaning of some of parameters given in this theory is not clear. For lithium nitrate melt, asymmetry of the shape of vibration contour ν1 (A1) of the nitrate ion can be caused by the inhomogeneity of local structure due to different rates of dynamic interactions between particles of the system.
Рентгенолюминесценция тетраподов ZnO, выращенных в присутствии примеси Сu и Au в исходной шихте
Authors: Веневцев И.Д. , Муслимов А.Э. , Задорожная Л.А. , Лавриков А.С. , Родный П.А. , Каневский В.М.
Published: August 2020

The morphology and luminescent properties of ZnO tetrapod powders with Cu and Au impurities obtained by pyrolytic carbothermal synthesis were studied. The X-ray luminescence spectrum of the samples is dominated by a broad band in the range from 450 to 650 nm. A weak band-edge luminescence band with a maximum at 391 nm is also registered. Measurements of the decay kinetics showed the presence of both fast (~ 1 ns) and slow (~ 850 ns) luminescence components, where the fast one generally did not exceed 1% of the integrated intensity. It is shown that with the used doping method, the incorporation of Cu and Au impurities into the ZnO lattice does not occur. In this case, the presence of Cu with a concentration of up to 9% does not affect the morphology and luminescent properties of tetrapods, while Au has an effect even at a concentration close to 1%.
Голографические волноводные перископы в дисплеях дополненной реальности
Authors: Путилин А.Н. , Морозов А.В. , Копенкин С.С. , Дубынин С.Е. , Бородин Ю.П.
Published: August 2020

The main characteristics of the waveguide holographic periscopes application in the optical schemes of augmented reality displays have been discussed. The analysis of functionality, limitations and the chromatic dispersion compensation in periscopic holographic schemes are presented
Решетки населенностей, создаваемые парой униполярных аттосекундных импульсов в трехуровневой атомарной среде
Authors: Архипов Р.М.
Published: August 2020

The possibility of population gratings creation in a three-level resonant medium using a pair of unipolar attosecond pulses that do not overlap in the medium is studied theoretically. It is shown that the results of the approximate solution of the Schrödinger equation agree with the results of the numerical solution of the system of equations for the density matrix of a three-level medium, the parameters of which are close to the parameters of atomic vapors of rubidium.
Herstellung endlosfaserverstärkter, thermoplastischer Halbzeuge für Karosseriestrukturbauteile in Großserie
Authors: Hofbauer Daniel
Published: August 2020

Derzeit werden in der Automobilindustrie Faser-Kunststoff-Verbunde mit thermoplastischer Matrix nur für semistrukturelle Bauteile mit geringeren Steifigkeits- und Festigkeitsanforderungen als Strukturbauteile und ohne Einbindung in die Hauptlastpfade einer Karosseriestruktur eingesetzt. Auf Basis von hohen mechanischen Anforderungen an ein Schwellerprofil einer Karosserie, soll demgegenüber eine zweischalige Bauweise unter Verwendung von mit Polyamid-Matrix vorimprägnierten, unidirektionalen Kohlenstofffasertapes zur Anwendung kommen. Infolge der extremen Belastungen ergibt sich ein Laminataufbau mit einer hohen Vorzugsrichtung in 0°-Faserorientierung und einer Dicke von bis zu 4,9 mm. Zur Herstellung derart hoher Wandstärken müssen die einzelnen unidirektionalen Tapes schichtweise aufgebaut und zu einem Laminat konsolidiert werden. Die Konsolidierung der Einzellagen kann dabei entweder direkt bei deren Ablage, auf statischen Heizpressen oder mittels Doppelbandpressen erfolgen. Für eine großserielle Herstellung ist aufgrund des kontinuierlichen Fertigungsprinzips eine Doppelbandpresse grundsätzlich von Vorteil. Anhand von experimentellen Fertigungsversuchen zur Konsolidierung der Layups konnte jedoch weder mit einer isobaren Doppelbandpresse, noch mit einer statischen Laborplattenpresse eine ausreichend gute Laminatqualität erzeugt werden. Lediglich die Veränderung des Lagenaufbaus, verbunden mit einer Reduzierung der mechanischen Eigenschaften des Laminats, erzeugte auf der Laborplattenpresse eine entsprechende Qualität. Allerdings ist die dafür erforderliche Zykluszeit für eine Großserienfertigung inakzeptabel. Somit stellt weder der untersuchte Doppelbandprozess, noch der statische Pressprozess, hinsichtlich der erzielbaren Laminatqualität und der erforderlich Anlagenkapazität für das beschriebene Schwellerprofil eine großserientaugliche Fertigungstechnologie dar. Darauf aufbauend müssen weiterführende Fertigungsstudien zum Doppelbandpressprozess mit Anpassung der Prozessparameter durchgeführt werden.
Investigation on inkjet printing for electromagnetic compatibility application
Authors: Hartwig Melinda , Polomoshnov Maxim , Zichner Ralf , Baumann Reinhard R.
Published: August 2020

The research is focused on the development of inkjet-printed silver grids on flexible films to (I) attenuate electromagnetic waves at 2.45 GHz locally by applying them directly on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth transmitter or to (II) protect electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) sensitive devices close to electromagnetic transmitters. The inkjet printing technology leads to resource, time as well as cost efficient manufacturing and simplifies the adjustment of the pattern design regarding different applications. The research contains a fundamental analysis of the behavior of printed silver patterns on flexible polymer substrates regarding line widths, layer morphology and electrical performance. On that basis the grid pattern for a certain frequency range is simulated. The report shows first simulation results on basis of the given material parameters. The results are the fundamentals for further research on realization of the simulated grid patterns by inkjet printing technology.
Influence of the cooling behaviour on mechanical properties of carbon fibre-reinforced thermoplastic/metal laminates
Authors: Zopp Camilo , Nestler Daisy , Buschner Nadine , Mende Carola , Mauersberger Sven , Tröltzsch Jürgen , Nendel Sebastian , Nendel Wolfgang , Kroll Lothar , Gehde Michael
Published: August 2020

For several years, thermoplastic hybrid laminates form a new class in the field of material compounds. These laminates consist of fibre-reinforced plastic prepregs and metal layers in alternating order. Compared to conventional thermosetting multilayer composites, these laminates are suitable for large-scale production and can be manufactured with significantly reduced cycle times in the thermoforming process.  In the framework of this contribution, the influence of the cooling rate of carbon fibre-reinforced thermoplastic composites and hybrid laminates was investigated with regard to crystallinity and the resulting mechanical properties. Polyamide 6 and thermoplastic polyurethane as matrix systems were examined, in particular.Additionally, the differential scanning calorimetry was used in order to investigate the influence of the cooling rate on the crystallisation behaviour. It could be determined that the cooling rate has a limited influence on the crystallisation of polyamide 6 and this influences the mechanical properties. Furthermore, a reliance of process parameters on the characteristics profile of composite materials and material compounds with thermoplastic polyurethane could be identified. Depending on process conditions, tensile, bending, and interlaminar shear properties fluctuate up to 20 % in fibre-reinforced laminates and up to 32 % in hybrid laminates. Moderate to fast cooling rates result in optimum mechanical characteristics of tensile properties in fibre-plastic-compounds. Fast to very fast cooling rates are advisable for bending and interlaminar shear properties. Highest tensile and bending characteristics are achieved in hybrid laminates by using fast to very fast cooling rates, while interlaminar shear properties tend to be highest in slow to moderate cooling rates.
Investigation of bio-based polyamide with short fibers for lightweight structures
Authors: Rinberg Roman , Hartmann Tobias , Nikiforov Anton , Doynikov Anton , Volfson Svetoslav , Kroll Lothar
Published: August 2020

In the automotive industry, petrochemical plastics are widespread because glass and carbon fiber-reinforced composites consist exclusively of petroleum-based matrix materials. So far, bio-based plastics couldn’t meet the requirement profile due to their high prices, their inappropriate features and the ineligible quality assurance of their synthesis. But the development of new bio-based polyamides opens the opportunity to replace petroleum-based plastics and may initiate the use of bio-based plastic matrices for fiber-reinforced composites for automotive applications.In this study, short fiber-reinforced polyamide 10.10 composites were investigated. Short carbon and glass fibers were used in varying compositions along with different modifiers to optimize the resulting characteristics. Fiber breakage during twin screw extrusion processing was researched and affected by the use of lubricants. The effect of using lubricants was noticed after extrusion. The addition of lubricants caused negative effects on mechanical properties at concentrations higher than 0.5 % wt. Further influences on fiber matrix interactions were investigated by varying the parameters of injection molding and positive effects on tensile properties were recognized. Strengthening effects on resulting composites are discussed in terms of lightweight structure and cost-efficiency.
Strategy and numerical modelling of a vehicle seat with a lightweight sandwich design for large-scale production
Authors: Ren Song , Schäfer Kay , Nestler Daisy , Krumm Dominik , Odenwald Stephan , Kroll Lothar , Fleischmann Marc
Published: August 2020

A lightweight vehicle front seat with a sandwich structure, which consists of skin layers made of glass fibre-reinforced thermoplastic prepregs and a core consisting of a warp knitted spacer fabric filled with polyurethane foam, was developed. The strength test simulations of the seat structure were performed using a Finite Element Analysis approach. The results validate the new sandwich design of the vehicle seat with its adequate strength under a static load. With the innovative lightweight design, the mass of the seat was reduced up to 57 % in comparison to the reference seat from conventional mass production. In addition, a manufacturing process was advised for a large-scale production of the lightweight design within one workstation.
FAUSST: bridging the gap between steel and fibre reinforced materials
Authors: Luterbacher Rafael , Molter Lars , Sumpf André , Peters Rigo
Published: August 2020

Multi-material design is commonly used within lightweight applications to meet certain design constraints. One common challenge across the different industry fields is the joining of materials of different material classes. Bonding and mechanical joining are generally used to overcome this issue. However, in some application fields, such as in the shipbuilding industry, where the interest of applying fibre-reinforced materials is increasing, these processes are not currently feasible due to regulatory and current technical constraints. One potential solution is FAUSST, a textile based transition joint. FAUSST is a hybrid knitted fabric, which is composed of 100% steel on one side and on the other of 100% glass fibres. The steel side is welded to a flat steel and the transition element is subsequently integrated via lamination processes within a fibre-reinforced component. Afterwards, this component is e.g. joined to a steel structure by welding. Depending on the design of the transition element, loads of up to 120 kN per meter joint can be transferred in the presented design with an overlap length of only 10 mm. This transition element, therefore, may lead to more lightweight designs with smoother surfaces for aesthetical, aerodynamic or hydrodynamic surfaces.
Mathematic model for describing the stress-tension behavior of an autoclave with integrated heating element
Authors: Graf Alexander , Elovenko Denis , Kräusel Verena , Hirsch Andreas
Published: August 2020

This paper describes a mathematical model and the method for determining the thermal stress fields in a cylindrical wall element of a pressure vessel with a built-in heating element and a layer of heat insulating material. The method presented is based on the calculation of contact pressures.
Fibre-reinforced polymer stirrup for reinforcing concrete structures
Authors: Lindner Marco , Vanselow Konrad , Gelbrich Sandra , Kroll Lothar
Published: August 2020

Fibre-plastic composites offer an interesting alternative to concrete reinforcement. In order to expandthe application spectrum of reinforcing elements in fibre composite construction, a new steel-free bracingsystem with reduced radii of curvature was developed. An improvement in load carrying capacity couldbe proven in extensive investigations based on international testing methods and verified by practicaltests. With the help of newly reinforced precast concrete elements from the area of waterways and trafficroutes, a high potential for lightweight construction and resource efficiency can be impressivelydemonstrated.
Haptic input devices with intelligent signal processing ensuring process stability and quality management
Authors: Graf Alexander , Decker Ricardo , Schmidt René , Kräusel Verena , Kroll Lothar , Hardt Wolfram
Published: August 2020

As part of the Cluster of Excellence Merge, a complete process chain was developed for the production of a hybrid laminate with sensory function for continuous production processes. An interior surface of the VW UP! is a good example of this. In this work, the forming processes of the centre console and the parameters influencing quality are discussed. An important parameter for the polarisation of the sensor layer is the thickness of the piezoceramic foil after forming. The maximum signal quality can only be achieved by an exact prediction of the thinning of the foil during the forming process. In addition, the electrical characterisation, especially the capacitance, of the sensor areas is used to determine the foil thickness within the sensor areas in the complex-shaped centre console. Furthermore, a practicable polarisation strategy is deducted in consideration of thickness, electrical characteristics of the piezoceramic foil and process parameters of forming process. For evaluation a novel impact localisation method based on machine learning is shown. Special focus is put on the independence of the impact intensity in order to guarantee a user-independent operation. In this respect, the suitability of various intensity-independent localisation methods will be discussed and subsequently empirically evaluated.