bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Mining Height on Shield Resistance in Shallow Buried Longwall Panel
Authors: Liu Chuang , Mitri Hani S. , Li Huamin
Published: March 2023

Based on the field conditions of Huojitu Coal Mine of Shendong coal field in Northern China, eight dynamic numerical models are developed to examine the interaction between the shield and surrounding rock of the longwall panel. The models take into consideration the actual mining process and are developed to simulate the change in the working resistance of the shield for the same shallow burial but with different mining height conditions, ranging from 2.5 to 7 m. The results show that the average shield resistance during the basic roof initial and periodic weighting is 7 to 20 times the weight load of the mining height under the same shallow stratum conditions. By means of dimensional analysis, a relation between mining height and shield resistance in longwall panels is derived theoretically and is fitted by using the shield resistance data under different mining heights monitored in the numerical simulations. This work has led to a new method for the selection of shield support in shallow coal seams.
Coal-Based Activated Carbon via Microwave-Assisted ZnCl2 Activation for Methyl Violet 2B Dye Removal: Optimization, Desirability Function, and Adsorption Mechanism
Authors: Musa Salis A. , Abdulhameed Ahmed Saud , Baharin Siti Nor Atika , ALOthman Zeid A. , Wilson Lee D. , Jawad Ali H.
Published: March 2023

In this work, activated carbon (referred to as MCAC) was produced by microwave radiation assisted ZnCl2 activation using Malaysian coal (MC) as a precursor. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller findings indicate that the MCAC has a relatively large surface area (798.18 m2/g) and a mesoporous structure (average pore diameter of 3.67 nm). The removal of Methylene Violet (MV 2B) a cationic dye model, was employed to investigate the adsorption properties of MCAC. A numerical desirability function in the Box–Behnken design (BBD) was employed to optimize the independent crucial adsorption variables as follows: A: MCAC dose (0.02–0.1 g); B: pH (4–10); and C: time (5–25 min). The results of equilibrium and dynamic adsorption showed that the adsorption of MV 2B followed Freundlich and pseudo-second order models, respectively. The maximum amount of MV 2B dye that the MCAC could adsorb (qmax) was 134.1 mg/g. Electrostatic interactions, π-π stacking, H-bonding, and pore diffusion contribute to the adsorption of MV 2B dye onto the MCAC surface. This study demonstrates the potential to utilize MC as a low-cost precursor for the efficient synthesis of MAC and its utility for the removal of pollutants.
Automated and Quantitative Mineralogy Applied to Chromite Ore Characterization and Beneficiation
Authors: Pownceby Mark I. , McCallum David A. , Bruckard Warren J.
Published: March 2023

A characterization study of chromite ore from South Africa was conducted using bulk assays, X-ray diffraction, optical, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), automated electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) and quantitative evaluation of mineral by scanning electron microscopy (QEMSCAN) mineralogical techniques, and quantitative EPMA. The aim was to identify all major gangue impurities, the degree of chromite liberation, and possible beneficiation options. The bulk material assayed 40.5% Cr2O3 with the major impurities being Al2O3 (13.2%), MgO (12.1%), and SiO2 (7.5%). Quantitative mineral phase analysis showed that the sample mineralogy was dominated by a chrome-rich spinel phase with an average chemical composition (in wt.%) of: Cr2O3—47.8; FeO—26.0; Al2O3—15.4; and MgO—11.0. Contaminant phases included siliceous minerals enstatite, anorthite-rich plagioclase (bytownite), Cr-rich diopside (containing 1–2 wt.% Cr2O3), and phlogopite mica. QEMSCAN analysis of sized fractions indicated that (a) most silicate gangue species were in the +850 μm fractions, (b) the chrome-rich spinel in all fractions was >80% liberated, and (c) the most common mineral association for chromite was with enstatite. Based on the results, upgrading test work demonstrated that stage crushing followed by wet gravity concentration produced a chemical–metallurgical-grade ‘chromite’ product containing >46% Cr2O3 and <1% SiO2.
Effect of MgO/Al2O3 on Viscosity and Thermodynamic Properties of High-Titanium Slag Containing Chlorine
Authors: Cheng Qinyu , Zhang Zhaohui , Xing Xiangdong , Zheng Jianlu , She Yuan
Published: March 2023

In order to study the effect of the change of MgO/Al2O3 on the viscosity and thermodynamic properties of the chlorinated blast-furnace slag, the CaO-SiO2-MgO-Al2O3-TiO2-CaCl2 slag system was taken as the research object, and the viscosity change rule of the chlorinated high-titanium slag was studied by using the rotating cylinder method. The thermal stability of the chlorinated high-titanium slag was quantitatively analyzed by calculating the extreme heat release rate (EHRS) of the chlorinated high-titanium slag. At the same time, the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the high-titanium slag containing chlorine was carried out by combining FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, and the mechanism of the influence of MgO/Al2O3 on the viscous flow characteristics of the high-titanium slag containing chlorine was revealed. The results show that when the alkalinity (R2) of the fixed slag is 1.15, when MgO/Al2O3 is in the range of 0.40–0.66, the viscosity of the high-titanium slag containing chlorine presents a significant decreasing trend with the gradual increase of MgO/Al2O3, and the viscous flow activation energy of the slag decreases from 98.75kJ · mol−1 to 95.21kJ · mol−1. The heat capacity and enthalpy change of slag decrease with the increase of MgO/Al2O3, but the change rule of slag extreme heat release is opposite to that of heat capacity and enthalpy change. When MgO/Al2O3 increases, the slag extreme heat release increases from 13.413 kJ to 15.172 kJ. The content of simple structural units Q0 and Q1 of silicate tetrahedron in the slag gradually increases, the content of complex structural units Q2 and Q3 gradually decreases, and the average amount of non-bridging oxygen decreases from 1.94 to 1.79, indicating that Al2O3 acts as a network maker in the internal network structure of the slag. The increase of MgO/Al2O3 destroys the complex silicate tetrahedron structure in the slag, reducing the degree of polymerization of the slag silicate network. In addition, the transmissivity of [SiO4]4− tetrahedron, [AlO4]4− tetrahedron and T-O-T bond bending vibration band in the slag shows a decreasing trend. Within the scope of the experiment, the increase of MgO/Al2O3 can effectively improve the fluidity of the chlorine-containing blast-furnace slag and improve the thermal stability of the chlorine-containing blast-furnace slag.
The Surface Structure Change of Columbite-(Fe) Dissolution in H2SO4
Authors: Guo Xiao , Wang Dan , Li Qiuju
Published: March 2023

The mineral surface structure and ions’ interaction were of significant interest to understanding mineral dissolution and reaction. In this study, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy combined with ICP emission spectrometer was used to investigate the influence of the leaching reaction conditions of 8 M dilute sulfuric acid and 12 M concentrated sulfuric acid on the surface chemical composition, chemical (valence) state and ion distribution of Columbite-(Fe) (FeNb2O6). The binding energy of the cations (Fe, Nb) bonding with different anions (O2−, SO42−) and the ratio of Fe3+/Fe2+ oxidation–reduction provided direct understanding of Fe and Nb releasing from the mineral surface during leaching. The results showed that the binding energy of the Nb5+-O bond was much smaller than that of Nb5+-SO4, and the binding energy decreased in sequence as Nb5+-O < Fe2+-O < Fe3+-O and increased in sequence as Fe3+-SO4 < Fe2+-SO4 < Nb5+-SO4. The mineral surface reaction during the leaching could be expressed with the formula: Fe-O + H2SO4 → Fe-SO4 + H2O, Nb-O + H2SO4 → Nb-SO4 + H2O. The results also revealed that Nb dissolution from Columbite-(Fe) occurred more easily compared to Fe. Nb dissolution from the mineral was owed to the content of H+ in solution, and increasing the H+ concentration could promote the dissolution. For Fe dissolution from the mineral, the oxidation potential could play an effective role in enhancement dissolution.
One-Step Synthesis of Self-Stratification Core-Shell Latex for Antimicrobial Coating
Authors: Zhen Guanzhou , Mu Yuanchun , Yuan Peichen , Li Yankun , Li Xiaoyu
Published: March 2023

Herein, we describe a one-step method for synthesizing cationic acrylate-based core-shell latex (CACS latex), which is used to prepare architectural coatings with excellent antimicrobial properties. Firstly, a polymerizable water-soluble quaternary ammonium salt (QAS-BN) was synthesized using 2-(Dimethylamine) ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) and benzyl bromide by the Hoffman alkylation reaction. Then QAS-BN, butyl acrylate (BA), methyl methacrylate (MMA), and vinyltriethoxysilane (VTES) as reactants and 2,2’-azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AIBA) as a water-soluble initiator were used to synthesize the CACS latex. The effect of the QAS-BN dosage on the properties of the emulsion and latex film was systematically investigated. The TGA results showed that using QAS-BN reduced the latex film’s initial degradation temperature but improved its thermal stability. In the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) photographs, the self-stratification of latex particles with a high dosage of QAS-BN was observed, forming a core-shell structure of latex particles. The DSC, TGA, XPS, SEM, and performance tests confirmed the core-shell structure of the latex particles. The relationship between the formation of the core-shell structure and the content of QAS-BN was proved. The formation of the core-shell structure was due to the preferential reaction of water-soluble monomers in the aqueous phase, which led to the aggregation of hydrophilic groups, resulting in the formation of soft-core and hard-shell latex particles. However, the water resistance of the films formed by CACS latex was greatly reduced. We introduced a p-chloromethyl styrene and n-hexane diamine (p-CMS/EDA) crosslinking system, effectively improving the water resistance in this study. Finally, the antimicrobial coating was prepared with a CACS emulsion of 7 wt.% QAS-BN and 2 wt.% p-CMS/EDA. The antibacterial activity rates of this antimicrobial coating against E. coli and S. aureus were 99.99%. The antiviral activity rates against H3N2, HCoV-229E, and EV71 were 99.4%, 99.2%, and 97.9%, respectively. This study provides a novel idea for the morphological design of latex particles. A new architectural coating with broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties was obtained, which has important public health and safety applications.
Theoretical and Anti-Klebsiella pneumoniae Evaluations of Substituted 2,7-dimethylimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-3-carboxamide and Imidazopyridine Hydrazide Derivatives
Authors: Mali Suraj N. , Anand Amit , Zaki Magdi E. A. , Al-Hussain Sami A. , Jawarkar Rahul D. , Pandey Anima , Kuznetsov Aleksey
Published: March 2023

A series of multistep synthesis protocols was adopted to synthesize substituted imidazopyridines (IMPs) (SM-IMP-01 to SM-IMP-13, and DA-01-05). All substituted IMPs were then characterized using standard spectroscopic techniques such as 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, elemental analyses, and mass spectrometry. Our both in vitro qualitative and quantitative results for antibacterial analysis, against Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 4352 and Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6051 suggested that all compounds essentially exhibited activity against selected strains of bacteria. Our DFT analyses suggested that the compounds of the SM-IMP-01–SM-IMP-13 series have HOMO/LUMO gaps within 4.43–4.69 eV, whereas the compounds of the DA-01–DA-05 series have smaller values of the HOMO/LUMO gaps, 3.24–4.17 eV. The lowest value of the global hardness and the highest value of the global softness, 2.215 and 0.226 eV, respectively, characterize the compound SM-IMP-02; thus, it is the most reactive compound in the imidazopyridine carboxamide series (except hydrazide series). This compound also depicted lesser MIC values against Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 4352 and Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6051 as 4.8 µg/mL, each. In terms of another series, hydrazide DA-05 depicted strong antimicrobial actions (MIC: 4.8 µg/mL against both bacterial strains) and also had the lowest energy gap (3.24 eV), higher softness (0.309 eV), and lesser hardness (1.62 eV). Overall, when we compare qualitative and quantitative antimicrobial results, it is been very clear that compounds with dibromo substitutions on imidazopyridine (IMP) rings would act as better antimicrobial agents than those with -H at the eighth position on the IMP ring. Furthermore, substituents of higher electronegativities would tend to enhance the biological activities of dibromo-IMP compounds. DFT properties were also well comparable to this trend and overall, we can say that the electronic behavior of compounds under investigation has key roles in their bioactivities.
Green Synthesis, Characterization and Bioactivity of Mangifera indica Seed-Wrapped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Rajeshkumar Shanmugam , Parameswari Royapuram Parthasarathy , Sandhiya Dayalan , Al-Ghanim Khalid A. , Nicoletti Marcello , Govindarajan Marimuthu
Published: March 2023

In the realm of nanoparticles, metal-based nanoparticles have traditionally been regarded as the pioneering category. Compared to other nanoparticles, zinc oxide nanoparticles have several advantages, including optical and biological properties, which provide them a significant competitive advantage in clinical and biological applications. In the current investigation, we used an aqueous Mangifera indica seed extract to synthesize nanoparticles of zinc oxide (ZnO NPs). UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, atomic force spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the synthesized ZnO NPs. The nanoparticles were assessed for their potential to inhibit bacterial growth and protect cells from free radical damage. According to the current study’s findings, zinc oxide nanoparticles that had been modified with the aid of mango seeds were very efficient in preventing the development of the tested bacteria and were also powerful antioxidants.
Online Platforms for Remote Immersive Virtual Reality Testing: An Emerging Tool for Experimental Behavioral Research
Authors: Loetscher Tobias , Jurkovic Nadia Siena , Michalski Stefan Carlo , Billinghurst Mark , Lee Gun
Published: March 2023

Virtual Reality (VR) technology is gaining in popularity as a research tool for studying human behavior. However, the use of VR technology for remote testing is still an emerging field. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of conducting remote VR behavioral experiments that require millisecond timing. Participants were recruited via an online crowdsourcing platform and accessed a task on the classic cognitive phenomenon “Inhibition of Return” through a web browser using their own VR headset or desktop computer (68 participants in each group). The results confirm previous research that remote participants using desktop computers can be used effectively for conducting time-critical cognitive experiments. However, inhibition of return was only partially replicated for the VR headset group. Exploratory analyses revealed that technical factors, such as headset type, were likely to significantly impact variability and must be mitigated to obtain accurate results. This study demonstrates the potential for remote VR testing to broaden the research scope and reach a larger participant population. Crowdsourcing services appear to be an efficient and effective way to recruit participants for remote behavioral testing using high-end VR headsets.
Dynamics of Pd Subsurface Hydride Formation and Their Impact on the Selectivity Control for Selective Butadiene Hydrogenation Reaction
Authors: Asedegbega-Nieto Esther , Iglesias-Juez Ana , Di Michiel Marco , Fernandez-Garcia Marcos , Rodriguez-Ramos Inmaculada , Guerrero-Ruiz Antonio
Published: March 2023

Structure-sensitive catalyzed reactions can be influenced by a number of parameters. So far, it has been established that the formation of Pd-C species is responsible for the behavior of Pd nanoparticles employed as catalysts in a butadiene partial hydrogenation reaction. In this study, we introduce some experimental evidence indicating that subsurface Pd hydride species are governing the reactivity of this reaction. In particular, we detect that the extent of formation/decomposition of PdHx species is very sensitive to the Pd nanoparticle aggregate dimensions, and this finally controls the selectivity in this process. The main and direct methodology applied to determine this reaction mechanism step is time-resolved high-energy X-ray diffraction (HEXRD).
Effects of Nano-CeO2 on Microstructure and Properties of WC/FeCoNiCrMo0.2 Composite High Entropy Alloy Coatings by Laser Cladding
Authors: Ren Xiangyu , Sun Wenlei , Sheng Zefeng , Liu Minying , Hui Hujing , Xiao Yi
Published: March 2023

FeCoNiCrMo0.2 high entropy alloy has many excellent properties, such as high strength, high wear resistance, high corrosion resistance, and high ductility. To further improve the properties of this coating, FeCoNiCrMo high entropy alloy (HEA) coatings, and two composite coatings, FeCoNiCrMo0.2 + WC and FeCoNiCrMo0.2 + WC + CeO2, were prepared on the surface of 316L stainless steel by laser cladding technology. After adding WC ceramic powder and CeO2 rare earth control, the microstructure, hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance of the three coatings were carefully studied. The results show that WC powder significantly improved the hardness of the HEA coating and reduced the friction factor. The FeCoNiCrMo0.2 + 32%WC coating showed excellent mechanical properties, but the distribution of hard phase particles in the coating microstructure was uneven, resulting in unstable distribution of hardness and wear resistance in each region of the coating. After adding 2% nano-CeO2 rare earth oxide, although the hardness and friction factor decreased slightly compared with the FeCoNiCrMo0.2 + 32%WC coating, the coating grain structure was finer, which reduced the porosity and crack sensitivity of the coating, and the phase composition of the coating did not change; there was a uniform hardness distribution, a more stable friction coefficient, and the flattest wear morphology. In addition, under the same corrosive environment, the value of polarization impedance of the FeCoNiCrMo0.2 + 32%WC + 2%CeO2 coating was greater, the corrosion rate was relatively low, and the corrosion resistance was better. Therefore, based on various indexes, the FeCoNiCrMo0.2 + 32%WC + 2%CeO2 coating has the best comprehensive performance and can extend the service life of 316L workpieces.
Sustainable Cauliflower-Patterned CuFe2O4 Electrode Production from Chalcopyrite for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Mbebou Moctar , Polat Safa , Zengin Huseyin
Published: March 2023

The primary purpose of this study was to produce an ore-based high-capacity supercapacitor electrode. For this, chalcopyrite ore was first leached with nitric acid, and then metal oxide synthesis was carried out immediately on nickel foam using a hydrothermal technique from the solution. Cauliflower-patterned CuFe2O4 with a wall thickness of about 23 nm was synthesized on the Ni foam surface, characterized by XRD, FTIR, XPS, SEM, and TEM investigations. The produced electrode also displayed a feature of a battery-like charge storage mechanism with a specific capacity of 525 mF cm−2 at 2 mA cm−2 current density, energy of 8.9 mWh cm−2, and a power density of 233 mW cm−2. Additionally, even after 1350 cycles, this electrode still performed at 109% of its original capacity. The performance of this finding is 255% higher than that of the CuFe2O4 in our earlier investigation; despite being pure, it performs far better than some of its equivalents in the literature. Obtaining such performance from an electrode made from ore indicates that the use of ore has a lot of potential for supercapacitor production and property improvement.
Preparation and Thermal Conductivity Enhancement of Boron Nitride Nano-Material PiG Composite
Authors: Chen Zhenhua , Wei Qinhua , Tang Gao , Shi Hongsheng , Qin Laishun
Published: March 2023

With the improvement of the conversion efficiency of LED chip and fluorescent material and the increasing demand for high-brightness light sources, LED technology has begun to move toward the direction of high-power. However, there is a huge problem that high-power LED must face with a large amount of heat generated by high power causing a high temperature thermal decay or even thermal quenching of the fluorescent material in the device, resulting in a reduction of the luminous efficiency, color coordinates, color rendering index, light uniformity, and service life of LED. In order to solve this problem, fluorescent materials with high thermal stability and better heat dissipation were prepared to enhance their performance in high-power LED environments. A variety of boron nitride nanomaterials were prepared by the solid phase-gas phase method. By adjusting the ratio of boric acid to urea in the raw material, different BN nanoparticles and nanosheets were obtained. Moreover, the control of catalyst amount and synthesis temperature can be used to synthesize boron nitride nanotubes with various morphologies. By adding different morphologies and quantities of BN material in PiG (phosphor in glass), the mechanical strength, heat dissipation, and luminescent properties of the sheet can be effectively controlled. PiG prepared by adding the right number of nanotubes and nanosheets has higher quantum efficiency and better heat dissipation after being excited by high power LED.
Paper-Based Humidity Sensors as Promising Flexible Devices: State of the Art: Part 1. General Consideration
Authors: Korotcenkov Ghenadii
Published: March 2023

In the first part of the review article “General considerations” we give information about conventional flexible platforms and consider the advantages and disadvantages of paper when used in humidity sensors, both as a substrate and as a humidity-sensitive material. This consideration shows that paper, especially nanopaper, is a very promising material for the development of low-cost flexible humidity sensors suitable for a wide range of applications. Various humidity-sensitive materials suitable for use in paper-based sensors are analyzed and the humidity-sensitive characteristics of paper and other humidity-sensitive materials are compared. Various configurations of humidity sensors that can be developed on the basis of paper are considered, and a description of the mechanisms of their operation is given. Next, we discuss the manufacturing features of paper-based humidity sensors. The main attention is paid to the consideration of such problems as patterning and electrode formation. It is shown that printing technologies are the most suitable for mass production of paper-based flexible humidity sensors. At the same time, these technologies are effective both in the formation of a humidity-sensitive layer and in the manufacture of electrodes.
Determination of Hydrophobic Dispersive Surface Free Energy of Activated Carbon Fibers Measured by Inverse Gas Chromatographic Technique
Authors: Lee Seul-Yi , Kim Yeong-Hun , Mahajan Roop L. , Park Soo-Jin
Published: March 2023

Activated carbon fibers (ACFs) as one of the most important porous carbon materials are widely used in many applications that involve rapid adsorption and low-pressure loss, including air purification, water treatment, and electrochemical applications. For designing such fibers for the adsorption bed in gas and aqueous phases, in-depth comprehension of the surface components is crucial. However, achieving reliable values remains a major challenge due to the high adsorption affinity of ACFs. To overcome this problem, we propose a novel approach to determine London dispersive components (γSL) of the surface free energy of ACFs by inverse gas chromatography (IGC) technique at an infinite dilution. Our data reveal the γSL values at 298 K for bare carbon fibers (CFs) and the ACFs to be 97 and 260–285 mJ·m−2, respectively, which lie in the regime of secondary bonding of physical adsorption. Our analysis indicates that these are impacted by micropores and defects on the carbon surfaces. Comparing the γSL obtained by the traditional Gray’s method, our method is concluded as the most accurate and reliable value for the hydrophobic dispersive surface component of porous carbonaceous materials. As such, it could serve as a valuable tool in designing interface engineering in adsorption-related applications.
Infants’ Folate Markers and Postnatal Growth in the First 4 Months of Life in Relation to Breastmilk and Maternal Plasma Folate
Authors: Obeid Rima , Warnke Ines , Bendik Igor , Troesch Barbara , Schoop Rotraut , Chenal Elodie , Koletzko Berthold
Published: March 2023

Background: Human milk is the sole source of folate in exclusively breastfed infants. We investigated whether human milk folate or maternal plasma folate are associated with infants’ folate status and postnatal growth in the first 4 months of life. Methods: Exclusively breastfed infants (n = 120) were recruited at age < 1 month (baseline). Blood samples were available at baseline and at the age of 4 months. Plasma and breastmilk samples were available from the mothers at 8 weeks postpartum. The concentrations of (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) and different folate status markers were measured in samples of the infants and their mothers. The z-scores of weight, height, and head circumference of the infants were measured five times between baseline and 4 months. Results: Women with 5-MTHF concentrations in breastmilk <39.9 nmol/L (median) had higher plasma 5-MTHF compared to those with milk 5-MTHF concentrations >39.9 nmol/L (mean (SD) plasma 5-MTHF = 23.3 (16.5) vs. 16.6 (11.9) nmol/L; p = 0.015). At the age of 4 months, infants of women who were higher suppliers of 5-MTHF in breastmilk had higher plasma folate than those of low-supplier women (39.2 (16.1) vs. 37.4 (22.4) nmol/L; adjusted p = 0.049). The concentrations of breastmilk 5-MTHF and maternal plasma folate were not associated with infants’ longitudinal anthropometric measurements between baseline and 4 months. Conclusions: Higher 5-MTHF in breastmilk was associated with higher folate status in the infants and the depletion of folate in maternal circulation. No associations were seen between maternal or breastmilk folate and infants’ anthropometrics. Adaptive mechanisms might counteract the effect of low milk folate on infant development.
Reply to Pluta, R. Comment on “Minich et al. Is Melatonin the “Next Vitamin D”?: A Review of Emerging Science, Clinical Uses, Safety, and Dietary Supplements. Nutrients 2022, 14, 3934”
Authors: Minich Deanna M. , Henning Melanie , Darley Catherine , Fahoum Mona , Schuler Corey B. , Frame James
Published: March 2023

We would like to thank Dr. Pluta for his thoughtful comments [...]
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Lipid-Lowering Drugs and Supplements—A Narrative Review
Authors: Zivkovic Stefan , Maric Gorica , Cvetinovic Natasa , Lepojevic-Stefanovic Danijela , Bozic Cvijan Bojana
Published: March 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide. Since the establishment of the “lipid hypothesis”, according to which, cholesterol level is directly correlated to the risk of CVD, many different lipid-lowering agents have been introduced in clinical practice. A majority of these drugs, in addition to their lipid-lowering properties, may also exhibit some anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. This hypothesis was based on the observation that a decrease in lipid levels occurs along with a decrease in inflammation. Insufficient reduction in the inflammation during treatment with lipid-lowering drugs could be one of the explanations for treatment failure and recurrent CVD events. Thus, the aim of this narrative review was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory properties of currently available lipid-lowering medications including statins, ezetimibe, bile acid sequestrants (BAS), proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors, fibrates, omega-3 fatty acids, and niacin, as well as dietary supplements and novel drugs used in modern times.
Nursing Interventions to Reduce Health Risks from Climate Change Impact in Urban Areas: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Salvador Costa Maria , Melo Pedro , Azeiteiro Ulisses , Carvalho Sara , Ryan Robert
Published: March 2023

Considering that the public health sector has been considered as a key stakeholder in climate action, it seems important to understand what interventions are carried out globally by trusted professionals such as nurses engaged in health promotion and environmental health in optimizing the health of individuals, families, and communities toward the dissemination of lifestyle decarbonization and guidance on healthier climate-related choices. The objective of this review was to understand the extent and type of evidence related to the community-based interventions of nurses that are being led or have been implemented thus far with the aim of reducing the health risks from climate change impact in urban areas. The present protocol follows the JBI methodological framework. Databases to be searched include PubMed, MEDLINE complete, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online), and BASE (Bielefeld Academic Search Engine). Hand searched references were also considered for inclusion. This review will include quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies from 2008 onwards. Systematic reviews, text, opinion papers, and the gray literature in English and Portuguese were also considered. Mapping the nurse led interventions or those that have been implemented thus far in urban areas may lead to further reviews that may help identify the best practices and gaps within the field. The results are presented in tabular format alongside a narrative summary.
A Literature Review of Simulation-Based Nursing Education in Korea
Authors: Oh Sumee , Park Jungmin
Published: March 2023

This study reviewed the papers that studied the effect of simulation nursing education in the nursing field and examined the trend of simulation nursing education for nursing college students in Korea. Background: Simulation-based education started receiving attention as a pedagogical method in order to provide medical service of high quality in an ethical and safe environment. This has been of great importance during the coronavirus disease 2019 global pandemic. This literature review was conducted to suggest a direction for simulation-based nursing education in Korea. Methods: For literature searches, the authors used the following search terms in the Web of Science, CINAHL, Scopus, PubMed—‘utilization’, ‘simulation,’ ‘nursing student’, ‘nursing education’. A final search was conducted on 6 January 2021. The materials for this study were collected through literature searches according to the PRISMA guidelines. Results: 25 papers were selected as the final literature for analysis. The study was conducted for 48 percent of senior students in nursing college students in Korea (N = 12). High fidelity (HF) as the simulation type was 44 percent (N = 11). The simulation education subjects were composed of 52 percent adult health nursing (N = 13). According to educational goals described by Benzamine Bloom (1956), 90% in the psychomotor domain is considered a positive learning achievement. Conclusions: Effectiveness in the psychomotor domain through simulation-based training is correlated with expert nursing. It is essential to develop a systematic debriefing model and methods to evaluate performance and learning in the short- and long-term to expand the effectiveness of simulation-based education in nursing.
Early Transcriptional Responses of Human Nasal Epithelial Cells to Infection with Influenza A and SARS-CoV-2 Virus Differ and Are Influenced by Physiological Temperature
Authors: Resnick Jessica D. , Beer Michael A. , Pekosz Andrew
Published: March 2023

Influenza A (IAV) and SARS-CoV-2 (SCV2) viruses represent an ongoing threat to public health. Both viruses target the respiratory tract, which consists of a gradient of cell types, receptor expression, and temperature. Environmental temperature has been an understudied contributor to infection susceptibility and understanding its impact on host responses to infection could help uncover new insight into severe disease risk factors. As the nasal passageways are the initial site of respiratory virus infection, in this study we investigated the effect of temperature on host responses in human nasal epithelial cells (hNECs) utilizing IAV and SCV2 in vitro infection models. We demonstrate that temperature affected SCV2, but not IAV, viral replicative fitness and that SCV2-infected cultures were slower to mount an infection-induced response, likely due to suppression by the virus. Additionally, we show that that temperature not only changed the basal transcriptomic landscape of epithelial cells, but that it also impacted the response to infection. The induction of interferon and other innate immune responses was not drastically affected by temperature, suggesting that while the baseline antiviral response at different temperatures remained consistent, there may be metabolic or signaling changes that affect how well the cultures were able to adapt to new pressures, such as infection. Finally, we show that hNECs responded differently to IAV and SCV2 infection in ways that give insight into how the virus is able to manipulate the cell to allow for replication and release. Taken together, these data give new insight into the innate immune response to respiratory infections and can assist in identifying new treatment strategies for respiratory infections.
Migrating Anatidae as Sources of Environmental Contamination with Zoonotic Giardia, Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora and Microsporidia
Authors: Solarczyk Piotr , Wojtkowiak-Giera Agnieszka , Heddergott Mike
Published: March 2023

Giardia, Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, and microsporidia are gastrointestinal pathogens that can cause various disease symptoms in both animals and humans. Numerous studies worldwide have confirmed the presence of these eukaryotic pathogens in nesting and migrating wild geese, ducks, and swans. Migration spreads these zoonotic enteric pathogens to distant locations, which could have public health implications. Soils and water bodies (lakes, ponds, rivers and wetlands) in urban and suburban areas have been shown to be vulnerable to contamination by waterfowl droppings. This review addresses the epidemiology of these enteric pathogens in wild migratory bird species (Anatidae) and some consequences of their spread in the environment. To date, both zoonotic pathogens and genotypes restricted to avian hosts have been found in faecal samples from 21 anatid species worldwide. One of the routes of infection for these zoonotic gastrointestinal micropathogens is the indirect route. For example, shared water bodies (e.g., for drinking or recreational purposes) previously contaminated by birds during the migratory season may facilitate infections of humans through water. However, it is unclear how much wild waterfowl contribute to the transmission of giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, cyclosporosis, and microsporidiosis in many regions through contaminated environmental sources. Comprehensive epidemiological surveillance based on molecular data on gastrointestinal pathogens is crucial to take measures to control infections in the future.
Cost-Effectiveness of Targeted Prophylaxis among Allogenic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients
Authors: Shbaklo Nour , Vicentini Costanza , Busca Alessandro , Giaccone Luisa , Dellacasa Chiara , Dogliotti Irene , Lupia Tommaso , Zotti Carla M. , Corcione Silvia , De Rosa Francesco Giuseppe
Published: March 2023

Bloodstream infections (BSI) are life-threatening complications for onco-hematologic patients. Fluoroquinolones prophylaxis (FQP) was recommended for patients with neutropenia. Later, it was correlated with increased resistance rates among this population and its role became debated. While the role of FQ prophylaxis is still being studied, its cost-effectiveness is also unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the costs and effects associated with two alternative strategies (FQP vs. no prophylaxis) for patients with hematological malignancies undergoing allogenic stem cell transplant (HSCT). A decision-tree model was built integrating retrospectively collected data from a single transplant center, part of a tertiary teaching hospital in Northern Italy. Probabilities, costs and effects were considered in the assessment of the two alternative strategies. Probabilities of colonization, BSIs, extended-spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) and Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) BSIs and mortality associated with infection, as well as median duration of length of stay (LOS) were calculated based on data collected between 2013 and 2021. The center applied the strategy of FQP between 2013 and 2016, and of no prophylaxis between 2016 and 2021. Data on 326 patients were collected during the considered time period. Overall, the rates of colonization, BSI, KPC/ESBL BSI, and mortality were 6.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.7–13.5), 42% (9.9–81.4) and 20.72 (16.67–25.26), respectively. A mean bed-day cost of 132€ was estimated. Considering no prophylaxis vs. prophylaxis, the difference in costs ranged between additional 33.61 and 80.59€ per patient, whereas the difference in effects ranged between 0.11 and 0.03 life-years (LYs) lost (around 40 and 11 days). Given the small differences in terms of costs and effects between the two strategies, no prophylaxis seems an appropriate choice. Furthermore, this analysis did not consider the broader effect on hospital ecology of multiple doses of FQP, which could provide further support for the strategy of no prophylaxis. Our results suggest that the necessity for FQP in onco-hematologic setting should be determined based on local antibiotic resistance patterns.
Effects of Electronic Cigarette Use on Cardiovascular-Disease-Related Inflammatory Biomarkers in Smokers with HIV in a Switching Study in the United States
Authors: Cioe Patricia A. , Lechner William V. , Tidey Jennifer W. , Kahler Christopher W.
Published: March 2023

People with HIV (PWH) experience higher rates of cardiovascular events (CVEs) compared with the general population. A substantial body of evidence supports that select biomarkers of inflammation (soluble CD14 [sCD14], soluble CD163 [sCD163], highly sensitive C-reactive protein [hs-CRP], interleukin-6 [IL-6]) and coagulation (D-dimer) are elevated in PWH and related to increased rates of CVEs. Our previous work showed that smoking compared with nonsmoking was associated with significantly elevated sCD14, a biomarker of monocyte activation. We aimed to explore the effect of electronic cigarette (EC) provision on inflammatory biomarkers in PWH who smoked daily and then switched to an EC. Nineteen PWH were enrolled in a pilot study in which an EC and e-liquid were provided weekly for 8 weeks. Blood specimens for inflammatory biomarker analysis were obtained at baseline (BL) and at week 8. Biomarker levels were high at BL and did not differ significantly at week 8. There were small nonsignificant reductions in sCD163 and CRP levels. Non-significant increases in IL-6, D-dimer, and sCD14 levels were also noted. Use of ECs for 8 weeks does not appear to significantly increase or decrease inflammatory biomarker levels in SWH. Further research with larger samples and a control group is needed.
pH-Responsive Poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(2-vinylpyridine) Micelles for the Triggered Release of Therapeutics
Authors: Brewer Kyle , Bai Fengxiang , Blencowe Anton
Published: March 2023

The use of pH-responsive polymeric micelles is a promising approach to afford the targeted, pH-mediated delivery of hydrophobic drugs within the low-pH tumour milieu and intracellular organelles of cancer cells. However, even for a common pH-responsive polymeric micelle system—e.g., those utilising poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(2-vinylpyridine) (PEG-b-PVP) diblock copolymers—there is a lack of available data describing the compatibility of hydrophobic drugs, as well as the relationships between copolymer microstructure and drug compatibility. Furthermore, synthesis of the constituent pH-responsive copolymers generally requires complex temperature control or degassing procedures that limit their accessibility. Herein we report the facile synthesis of a series of diblock copolymers via visible-light-mediated photocontrolled reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer polymerisation, with a constant PEG block length (90 repeat units (RUs)) and varying PVP block lengths (46–235 RUs). All copolymers exhibited narrow dispersity values (Đ ≤ 1.23) and formed polymeric micelles with low polydispersity index (PDI) values (typically <0.20) at physiological pH (7.4), within a suitable size range for passive tumour targeting (<130 nm). The encapsulation and release of three hydrophobic drugs (cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKI)-73, gossypol, and doxorubicin) were investigated in vitro at pH 7.4–4.5 to simulate drug release within the tumour milieu and cancer cell endosome. Marked differences in drug encapsulation and release were observed when the PVP block length was increased from 86 to 235 RUs. With a PVP block length of 235 RUs, the micelles exhibited differing encapsulation and release properties for each drug. Minimal release was observed for doxorubicin (10%, pH 4.5) and CDKI-73 exhibited moderate release (77%, pH 4.5), whereas gossypol exhibited the best combination of encapsulation efficiency (83%) and release (91% pH 4.5) overall. These data demonstrate the drug selectivity of the PVP core, where both the block molecular weight and hydrophobicity of the core (and accordingly the hydrophobicity of the drug) have a significant effect on drug encapsulation and release. These systems remain a promising means of achieving targeted, pH-responsive drug delivery—albeit for select, compatible hydrophobic drugs—which warrants their further investigation to develop and evaluate clinically relevant micelle systems.
Quality by Design-Based Development of Solid Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery System (SEDDS) as a Potential Carrier for Oral Delivery of Lysozyme
Authors: Šahinović Merima , Hassan Alharith , Kristó Katalin , Regdon Géza , Vranić Edina , Sovány Tamás
Published: March 2023

For many years, researchers have been making efforts to find a manufacturing technique, as well as a drug delivery system, that will allow for oral delivery of biopharmaceuticals to their target site of action without impairing their biological activity. Due to the positive in vivo outcomes of this formulation strategy, self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDSs) have been intensively studied in the last few years as a way of overcoming the different challenges associated with the oral delivery of macromolecules. The purpose of the present study was to examine the possibility of developing solid SEDDSs as potential carriers for the oral delivery of lysozyme (LYS) using the Quality by Design (QbD) concept. LYS was successfully ion paired with anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), and this complex was incorporated into a previously developed and optimized liquid SEDDS formulation comprising medium-chain triglycerides, polysorbate 80, and PEG 400. The final formulation of a liquid SEDDS carrying the LYS:SDS complex showed satisfactory in vitro characteristics as well as self-emulsifying properties (droplet size: 13.02 nm, PDI: 0.245, and zeta potential: −4.85 mV). The obtained nanoemulsions were robust to dilution in the different media and highly stable after 7 days, with a minor increase in droplet size (13.84 nm) and constant negative zeta potential (−0.49 mV). An optimized liquid SEDDS loaded with the LYS:SDS complex was further solidified into powders by adsorption onto a chosen solid carrier, followed by direct compression into self-emulsifying tablets. Solid SEDDS formulations also exhibited acceptable in vitro characteristics, while LYS preserved its therapeutic activity in all phases of the development process. On the basis of the results gathered, loading the hydrophobic ion pairs of therapeutic proteins and peptides to solid SEDDS may serve as a potential method for delivering biopharmaceuticals orally.
Basic Properties of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors: Kuca-Warnawin Ewa , Kurowska Weronika , Plebańczyk Magdalena , Wajda Anna , Kornatka Anna , Burakowski Tomasz , Janicka Iwona , Syrówka Piotr , Skalska Urszula
Published: March 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) are destructive joint diseases, the development of which are associated with the expansion of pathogenic T lymphocytes. Mesenchymal stem cells may be an attractive therapeutic option for patients with RA or OA due to the regenerative and immunomodulatory abilities of these cells. The infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) is a rich and easily available source of mesenchymal stem cells (adipose-derived stem cells, ASCs). However, the phenotypic, potential and immunomodulatory properties of ASCs have not been fully characterised. We aimed to evaluate the phenotype, regenerative potential and effects of IFP-derived ASCs from RA and OA patients on CD4+ T cell proliferation. The MSC phenotype was assessed using flow cytometry. The multipotency of MSCs was evaluated on the basis of their ability to differentiate into adipocytes, chondrocytes and osteoblasts. The immunomodulatory activities of MSCs were examined in co-cultures with sorted CD4+ T cells or peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The concentrations of soluble factors involved in ASC-dependent immunomodulatory activities were assessed in co-culture supernatants using ELISA. We found that ASCs with PPIs from RA and OA patients maintain the ability to differentiate into adipocytes, chondrocytes and osteoblasts. ASCs from RA and OA patients also showed a similar phenotype and comparable abilities to inhibit CD4+ T cell proliferation, which was dependent on the induction of soluble factors The results of our study constitute the basis for further research on the therapeutic potential of ASCs in the treatment of patients with RA and OA.
Gene Electrotransfer Efficiency in 2D and 3D Cancer Cell Models Using Different Electroporation Protocols: A Comparative Study
Authors: de Caro Alexia , Bellard Elisabeth , Kolosnjaj-Tabi Jelena , Golzio Muriel , Rols Marie-Pierre
Published: March 2023

Electroporation, a method relying on a pulsed electric field to induce transient cell membrane permeabilization, can be used as a non-viral method to transfer genes in vitro and in vivo. Such transfer holds great promise for cancer treatment, as it can induce or replace missing or non-functioning genes. Yet, while efficient in vitro, gene-electrotherapy remains challenging in tumors. To assess the differences of gene electrotransfer in respect to applied pulses in multi-dimensional (2D, 3D) cellular organizations, we herein compared pulsed electric field protocols applicable to electrochemotherapy and gene electrotherapy and different “High Voltage–Low Voltage” pulses. Our results show that all protocols can result in efficient permeabilization of 2D- and 3D-grown cells. However, their efficiency for gene delivery varies. The gene-electrotherapy protocol is the most efficient in cell suspensions, with a transfection rate of about 50%. Conversely, despite homogenous permeabilization of the entire 3D structure, none of the tested protocols allowed gene delivery beyond the rims of multicellular spheroids. Taken together, our findings highlight the importance of electric field intensity and the occurrence of cell permeabilization, and underline the significance of pulses’ duration, impacting plasmids’ electrophoretic drag. The latter is sterically hindered in 3D structures and prevents the delivery of genes into spheroids’ core.