bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunomodulatory Effect of Infectious Disease of a Breastfed Child on the Cellular Composition of Breast Milk
Authors: Tomaszewska Agata , Jeleniewska Alicja , Porębska Klaudia , Królikowska Katarzyna , Rustecka Agnieszka , Lipińska-Opałka Agnieszka , Będzichowska Agata , Zdanowski Robert , Aleksandrowicz Karolina , Kloc Małgorzata , Kalicki Bolesław
Published: September 2023

Recent studies suggest that the content of immune components in milk is influenced by the mother’s health and also by the infant she feeds. We aimed to evaluate the effect of a child’s respiratory tract infection on the cellular composition of breast milk (neutrophils, monocytes, eosinophils, lymphocytes, and their subpopulations). Twenty-six breastfeeding mothers whose children were hospitalized for respiratory tract infections were enrolled in the study. The control group consisted of 23 mothers of healthy children. Regarding the children, baseline laboratory blood tests were performed, and nasal swabs were taken for the presence of RS virus. In the next step, milk samples were collected from the mothers to assess the cellular composition of the milk, including neutrophils, monocytes, eosinophils, lymphocytes, and their subpopulations. Significantly higher percentages of T lymphocytes (helper and cytotoxic lymphocytes) were observed in the milk of the studied mothers. There was a significantly higher percentage of milk lymphocytes in the group of affected children with confirmed RSV etiology than in children with excluded RSV etiology. A significant positive correlation was observed between the duration of infection and the percentage of milk NK cells and between milk CD19 lymphocytes and the child’s serum leukocytosis. This study may provide evidence of a link between cells in breast milk and disease in the breastfed infant. The severity of the infection, its duration, and the etiological agent of the infection may affect the cellular composition of milk.
Effect of Lactobacillaceae Probiotics on Colonic Microbiota and Metabolite Production in Cystic Fibrosis: A Comparative In Vitro Study
Authors: Asensio-Grau Andrea , Calvo-Lerma Joaquim , Ferriz-Jordán Miguel , García-Hernández Jorge , Heredia Ana , Andrés Ana
Published: September 2023

Cystic Fibrosis-related gut dysbiosis (CFRGD) has become a recognised complication in children with this condition, and current evidence remains insufficient to guide the selection of probiotic strains for supplementation treatments. The aim of this study was to characterise the effect of three probiotic strains on CFRGD by means of a dynamic in vitro simulation of the colonic fermentation (SHIME®). The configuration of the system included three bioreactors colonised with the faecal inoculum of a child with cystic fibrosis. For 20 days, each bioreactor was supplied daily with either Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103 TM), Limosilactobacillus reuteri (DSM 17938) or Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (DSM 22266). The baseline microbiota was characterised by a high abundance of Prevotella, Faecalibacterium and Acidaminococcus genera. After 20 days of supplementation, L. rhamnosus and L. plantarum reduced Prevotella significantly, and the three strains led to increased Faecalibacterium and Bifidobacterium and decreased Acidaminococcus, with some of these changes being maintained 10 days after ceasing supplementation. The metabolic activity remained unaltered in terms of short-chain fatty acids, but branched-chain fatty acids showed a significant decrease, especially with L. plantarum. Additionally, ammonia decreased at 20 days of supplementation, and lactate continuously increased with the three strains. The effects on colonic microbiota of L. rhamnosus, L. reuteri or L. plantarum were established, including increased beneficial bacteria, such as Faecalibacterium, and beneficial metabolites such as lactate; and on the other hand, a reduction in pathogenic genera, including Prevotella or Acidaminococcus and branched-chain fatty acids, overall supported their use as probiotics in the context of CFRGD.
Short-Term Acceptability of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods in Two Provinces of Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Authors: Aiello Iacopo , Kounnavong Sengchanh , Vinathan Hari , Philavong Khamseng , Luangphaxay Chanthaly , Soukhavong Somphone , Blomberg Janneke , Wieringa Frank T.
Published: September 2023

Background: In Lao PDR, acute malnutrition remains a public health problem, with around 9% of children under 5 being affected. Outpatient treatment of severe acute malnutrition requires ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTFs), but concerns have been raised about the acceptability of globally available products. Culturally acceptable RUTFs could be locally developed, but data are lacking on RUTF preferences in Lao PDR. Methods: In a crossover-designed study, four different RUTFs were tested for short-term acceptability and organoleptic qualities (two globally available: peanut-based, which is the current standard, and wheat–milk-based RUTFs; two regionally produced: a mung-bean-based and a fish–rice-based RUTF). Organoleptic properties were evaluated by 83 caretaker–child pair participants through a taste test and a 30 min consumption test. Short-term acceptability was assessed through a 3-day intake test. The study sites were in Phongsaly (North Laos) and Attapeu (South Laos). Focus group discussions were conducted at the beginning and the end of the study. Results: The mung bean RUTF was the favorite among caretakers, with an acceptability percentage of 96.2%, and scored better (p-value < 0.05) for all organoleptic variables than the other three RUTFs. Overall, 3 days after receiving take-home rations, the mean percentage of consumption was above 80% for all the RUTFs, with the mung bean product being the most consumed. Conclusions: The regionally produced mung bean RUTF was the most accepted, whereas the other regionally produced fish-based RUTF was the least accepted, showing the complexity of finding culturally acceptable solutions to fight malnutrition. For Lao PDR, a mung-bean-based RUTF seems the way forward, even if the current standard peanut-based RUTF appeared to be acceptable, albeit not the most preferred.
Exploring the Antioxidant Potential of Talisia esculenta Using In Vitro and In Vivo Approaches
Authors: da Silva Cordeiro Maria Lúcia , de Queiroz Aquino-Martins Verônica Giuliani , da Silva Ariana Pereira , Naliato Georggia Fatima Silva , Silveira Elielson Rodrigo , Theodoro Raquel Cordeiro , da Santos Deborah Yara Alves Cursino , Rocha Hugo Alexandre Oliveira , Scortecci Katia Castanho
Published: September 2023

Medicinal plants, such as Talisia esculenta, are rich in antioxidant biomolecules, which are used in the treatment and prevention of many diseases. The antioxidant potential of T. esculenta extracts obtained from leaves and fruit peels was investigated using biochemical and 3T3 cell line assays as well as in vivo assays using an organism model Tenebrio molitor. Four extracts were tested: hydroethanolic extracts from leaves (HF) and from fruit peels (HC), and infusion extracts from leaves (IF) and from fruit peels (IC). The biochemical assays demonstrated an antioxidant capacity verified by TAC, reducing power, DPPH, and copper chelating assays. None of the extracts exhibited cytotoxicity against 3T3 cells, instead offering a protection against CuSO4-induced oxidative stress. The antioxidant activity observed in the extracts, including their role as free radical scavengers, copper chelators, and stress protectors, was further confirmed by T. molitor assays. The CLAE-DAD analysis detected phenolic compounds, including gallic acid, rutin, and quercitrin, as the main constituents of the samples. This study highlights that leaf and fruit peels extracts of T. esculenta could be effective protectors against ROS and copper-induced stress in cellular and invertebrate models, and they should be considered as coadjutants in the treatment and prevention of diseases related to oxidative stress and for the development of natural nutraceutical products.
Risk of Malnutrition in Adults Who Have Undergone Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liao Wan-Chun , Wang Tsae-Jyy , Liu Chieh-Yu , Liu Tsang-Pai , Liang Shu-Yuan , Chang Ko-Shih
Published: September 2023

Sleeve gastrectomy achieves long-term weight control by reducing gastric volume. However, postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms and insufficient nutritional intake are likely to occur, which are not conducive to physical health. A retrospective study aimed to investigate changes in nutritional status and associated factors in patients after sleeve gastrectomy. Data were collected from the medical records of patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy at a teaching hospital in Taiwan. Data from 120 patients who met the eligibility criteria were included in the analysis. The results show that sleeve gastrectomy has a strong weight loss effect. Within 12 months, the average body mass index of the patients decreased by 13.47 kg/m2. The number of morbidly obese patients decreased from 62 (51.7%) to 3 (2.5%). However, surgery is also associated with gastrointestinal symptoms and the threat of malnutrition. The number of patients with moderate to severe nutritional risk increased from 4 (3.3%) before surgery to 24 (20%) at 12-month follow-up. Likewise, the number of patients with anemia increased from 11 (9.2%) to 29 (24.17%). Gender, constipation, and diarrhea affected postoperative nutritional status. These findings suggest that patients after sleeve gastrectomy are at risk of malnutrition and require regular monitoring. Special attention should be given to women and patients with constipation or diarrhea, as they are at a particularly high risk of malnutrition.
Post-Diagnosis Dietary Patterns among Cancer Survivors in Relation to All-Cause Mortality and Cancer-Specific Mortality: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Spei Maria-Eleni , Bellos Ioannis , Samoli Evangelia , Benetou Vassiliki
Published: September 2023

The role of overall diet on longevity among cancer survivors (CS) needs further elucidation. We performed a systematic review of the literature and a meta-analysis of related cohort studies published up to October 2022 investigating post-diagnosis a priori (diet quality indices) and a posteriori (data-driven) dietary patterns (DPs) in relation to all-cause and cancer-specific mortality. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using random-effects meta-analyses comparing highest versus lowest categories of adherence to DPs. We assessed heterogeneity and risk of bias in the selected studies. A total of 19 cohort studies with 38,846 adult CS, some assessing various DPs, were included in the meta-analyses. Higher adherence to a priori DPs was associated with lower all-cause mortality by 22% (HR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.73–0.83, I2 = 22.6%) among all CS, by 22% (HR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.73–0.84, I2 = 0%) among breast CS and by 27% (HR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.62–0.86, I2 = 41.4%) among colorectal CS. Higher adherence to a “prudent/healthy” DP was associated with lower all-cause mortality (HR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.64–0.97 I2 = 49.3%), whereas higher adherence to a “western/unhealthy” DP was associated with increased all-cause mortality (HR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.26–1.74, I2 = 0%) among all CS. Results for cancer-specific mortality were less clear. In conclusion, higher adherence to a “healthy” DP, either a priori or a posteriori, was inversely associated with all-cause mortality among CS. A “healthy” overall diet after cancer diagnosis could protect and promote longevity and well-being.
HSV-1 Triggers an Antiviral Transcriptional Response during Viral Replication That Is Completely Abrogated in PKR−/− Cells
Authors: Pennisi Rosamaria , Sciortino Maria
Published: September 2023

The activation of the innate immune response during HSV-1 infection stimulates several transcription factors, such as NF-κB and IRF3, which are critical regulators of IFN-β expression. The released IFN-β activates the ISGs, which encode antiviral effectors such as the PKR. We found that HSV-1 triggers an antiviral transcriptional response during viral replication by activating TBK1-IRF3-NF-κB network kinetically. In contrast, we reported that infected PKR−/− cells fail to activate the transcription of TBK1. Downstream, TBK1 was unable to activate the transcription of IRF3 and NF-κB. These data suggested that in PKR−/− cells, HSV-1 replication counteracts TBK1-IRF3-NF-κB network. In this scenario, a combined approach of gene knockout and gene silencing was used to determine how the lack of PKR facilitates HSV-1 replication. We reported that in HEp-2-infected cells, PKR can influence the TBK1-IRF3-NF-κB network, consequently interfering with viral replication. Otherwise, an abrogated PKR-mediated signaling sustains the HSV-1 replication. Our result allows us to add additional information on the complex HSV-host interaction network by reinforcing the concept of the PKR role in the innate response-related networks during HSV replication in an in vitro model.
Modulation of Macrophage Redox and Apoptotic Processes to Leishmania infantum during Coinfection with the Tick-Borne Bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi
Authors: Pessôa-Pereira Danielle , Scorza Breanna M. , Cyndari Karen I. , Beasley Erin A. , Petersen Christine A.
Published: September 2023

Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a zoonotic disease caused by protozoan Leishmania infantum. Dogs with CanL are often coinfected with tick-borne bacterial pathogens, including Borrelia burgdorferi in the United States. These coinfections have been causally associated with hastened disease progression and mortality. However, the specific cellular mechanisms of how coinfections affect microbicidal responses against L. infantum are unknown. We hypothesized that B. burgdorferi coinfection impacts host macrophage effector functions, prompting L. infantum intracellular survival. In vitro experiments demonstrated that exposure to B. burgdorferi spirochetes significantly increased L. infantum parasite burden and pro-inflammatory responses in DH82 canine macrophage cells. Induction of cell death and generation of mitochondrial ROS were significantly decreased in coinfected DH82 cells compared to uninfected and L. infantum-infected cells. Ex vivo stimulation of PBMCs from L. infantum-seronegative and -seropositive subclinical dogs with spirochetes and/or total Leishmania antigens promoted limited induction of IFNγ. Coexposure significantly induced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines associated with Th17 differentiation and neutrophilic and monocytic recruitment in PBMCs from L. infantum-seropositive dogs. Excessive pro-inflammatory responses have previously been shown to cause CanL pathology. This work supports effective tick prevention and risk management of coinfections as critical strategies to prevent and control L. infantum progression in dogs.
Phylogenomic Comparison of Seven African Swine Fever Genotype II Outbreak Viruses (1998–2019) Reveals the Likely African Origin of Georgia 2007/1
Authors: Mthombeni Rivalani F. , Bastos Armanda D. , van Schalkwyk Antoinette , van Emmenes Juanita , Heath Livio
Published: September 2023

Since the initial report of African swine fever (ASF) in Kenya in 1921, the disease has predominantly been confined to Africa. However, in 2007, an ASF genotype II virus of unknown provenance was introduced to Georgia. This was followed by its rampant spread to 73 countries, and the disease is now a global threat to pig production, with limited effective treatment and vaccine options. Here, we investigate the origin of Georgia 2007/1 through genome sequencing of three viruses from outbreaks that predated the genotype II introduction to the Caucasus, namely Madagascar (MAD/01/1998), Mozambique (MOZ/01/2005), and Mauritius (MAU/01/2007). In addition, genome sequences were generated for viruses from East African countries historically affected by genotype II (Malawi (MAL/04/2011) and Tanzania (TAN/01/2011)) and newly invaded southern African countries (Zimbabwe (ZIM/2015) and South Africa (RSA/08/2019). Phylogenomic analyses revealed that MOZ/01/2005, MAL/04/2011, ZIM/2015 and RSA/08/2019 share a recent common ancestor with Georgia 2007/1 and that none contain the large (~550 bp) deletion in the MGT110 4L ORF observed in the MAD/01/1998, MAU/01/2007 and TAN/01/2011 isolates. Furthermore, MOZ/01/2005 and Georgia 2007/1 only differ by a single synonymous SNP in the EP402R ORF, confirming that the closest link to Georgia 2007/1 is a virus that was circulating in Mozambique in 2005.
Injectable pH and Thermo-Responsive Hydrogel Scaffold with Enhanced Osteogenic Differentiation of Preosteoblasts for Bone Regeneration
Authors: King Jasmine L. , Shrivastava Roopali , Shah Pooja D. , Maturavongsadit Panita , Benhabbour Soumya Rahima
Published: September 2023

Bone fractures are common in the geriatric population and pose a great economic burden worldwide. While traditional methods for repairing bone defects have primarily been autografts, there are several drawbacks limiting its use. Bone graft substitutes have been used as alternative strategies to improve bone healing. However, there remain several impediments to achieving the desired healing outcomes. Injectable hydrogels have become attractive scaffold materials for bone regeneration, given their high performance in filling irregularly sized bone defects and their ability to encapsulate cells and bioactive molecules and mimic the native ECM of bone. We investigated the use of an injectable chitosan-based hydrogel scaffold to promote the differentiation of preosteoblasts in vitro. The hydrogels were characterized by evaluating cell homogeneity, cell viability, rheological and mechanical properties, and differentiation ability of preosteoblasts in hydrogel scaffolds. Cell-laden hydrogel scaffolds exhibited shear thinning behavior and the ability to maintain shape fidelity after injection. The CNC-CS hydrogels exhibited higher mechanical strength and significantly upregulated the osteogenic activity and differentiation of preosteoblasts, as shown by ALP activity assays and histological analysis of hydrogel scaffolds. These results suggest that this injectable hydrogel is suitable for cell survival, can promote osteogenic differentiation of preosteoblasts, and structurally support new bone growth.
Translational Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Modeling and Simulation of Oxaliplatin and Irinotecan in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zhu Jinwei , Zhang Yicui , Zhao Yixin , Zhang Jingwei , Hao Kun , He Hua
Published: September 2023

Despite the recent advances in this field, there are limited methods for translating organoid-based study results to clinical response. The goal of this study was to develop a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model to facilitate the translation, using oxaliplatin and irinotecan treatments with colorectal cancer (CRC) as examples. The PK models were developed using qualified oxaliplatin and irinotecan PK data from the literature. The PD models were developed based on antitumor efficacy data of SN-38 and oxaliplatin evaluated in vitro using tumor organoids. To predict the clinical response, translational scaling of the models was established by incorporating predicted ultrafiltration platinum in plasma or SN-38 in tumors to PD models as the driver of efficacy. The final PK/PD model can predict PK profiles and responses following treatments with oxaliplatin or irinotecan. After generation of virtual patient cohorts, this model simulated their tumor shrinkages following treatments, which were used in analyzing the efficacies of the two treatments. Consistent with the published clinical trials, the model simulation suggested similar patient responses following the treatments of oxaliplatin and irinotecan with regards to the probabilities of progression-free survival (HR = 1.05, 95%CI [0.97;1.15]) and the objective response rate (OR = 1.15, 95%CI [1.00;1.32]). This proposed translational PK/PD modeling approach provides a significant tool for predicting clinical responses of different agents, which may help decision-making in drug development and guide clinical trial design.
Improvement in Signal Phase Detection Using Deep Learning with Parallel Fully Connected Layers
Authors: Tokoro Michito , Fujimura Ryushi
Published: September 2023

We report a single-shot phase-detection method using deep learning in a holographic data-storage system. The error rate was experimentally confirmed to be reduced by up to three orders of magnitude compared with that in the conventional phase-determination algorithm by learning the light-intensity distribution around a target signal pixel. In addition, the output speed of a signal phase could be shortened by devising a network and arranging the fully connected layers in parallel. In our environment, the phase-output time of a single-pixel classification was approximately 18 times longer than that in our previous method, with the minimum-finding algorithm. However, it could be reduced to 1.7 times or less when 32 pixels were simultaneously classified. Therefore, the proposed method can significantly reduce the error rates and suppress the phase-output time to almost the same level as that in the previous method. Thus, our proposed method can be a promising phase-detection method for realizing a large-density data-storage system.
Genomic and Transcriptional Profiling Analysis and Insights into Rhodomyrtone Yield in Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Aiton) Hassk
Authors: Nakkaew Alisa , Masjon Thipphanet , Voravuthikunchai Supayang Piyawan
Published: September 2023

Rhodomyrtus tomentosa is a source of a novel antibiotic, rhodomyrtone. Because of the increasing industrial demand for this compound, germplasm with a high rhodomyrtone content is the key to sustainable future cultivation. In this study, rhodomyrtone genotypes were verified using the plastid genomic region marker matK and nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer ITS. These two DNA barcodes proved to be useful tools for identifying different rhodomyrtone contents via the SNP haplotypes C569T and A561G, respectively. The results were correlated with rhodomyrtone content determined via HPLC. Subsequently, R. tomentosa samples with high- and low-rhodomyrtone genotypes were collected for de novo transcriptome and gene expression analyses. A total of 83,402 unigenes were classified into 25 KOG classifications, and 74,102 annotated unigenes were obtained. Analysis of differential gene expression between samples or groups using DESeq2 revealed highly expressed levels related to rhodomyrtone content in two genotypes. semiquantitative RT-PCR further revealed that the high rhodomyrtone content in these two genotypes correlated with expression of zinc transporter protein (RtZnT). In addition, we found that expression of RtZnT resulted in increased sensitivity of R. tomentosa under ZnSO4 stress. The findings provide useful information for selection of cultivation sites to achieve high rhodomyrtone yields in R. tomentosa.
Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Antiproliferative Effects of Osmanthus fragrans (Thunb.) Lour. Flower Extracts
Authors: Huang Steven Kuan-Hua , Bueno Paolo Robert P. , Garcia Patrick Jay B. , Lee Mon-Juan , De Castro-Cruz Kathlia A. , Leron Rhoda B. , Tsai Po-Wei
Published: September 2023

Osmanthus fragrans (Thunb.) Lour. flowers (OF-F) have been traditionally consumed as a functional food and utilized as folk medicine. This study evaluated the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic effects of OF-F extracts on prostate cancer cells (DU-145) and determined possible protein-ligand interactions of its compounds in silico. The crude OF-F extracts—water (W) and ethanol (E) were tested for phytochemical screening, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer. Network and molecular docking analyses of chemical markers were executed to establish their application for anticancer drug development. OF-F-E possessed higher total polyphenols (233.360 ± 3.613 g/kg) and tannin (93.350 ± 1.003 g/kg) contents than OF-F-W. In addition, OF-F-E extract demonstrated effective DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 = 0.173 ± 0.004 kg/L) and contained a high FRAP value (830.620 ± 6.843 g Trolox/kg). In cell culture experiments, OF-F-E significantly reduced NO levels and inhibited cell proliferation of RAW-264.7 and DU-145 cell lines, respectively. Network analysis revealed O. fragrans (Thunb.) Lour. metabolites could affect thirteen molecular functions and thirteen biological processes in four cellular components. These metabolites inhibited key proteins of DU-145 prostate cancer using molecular docking with rutin owning the highest binding affinity with PIKR31 and AR. Hence, this study offered a new rationale for O. fragrans (Thunb.) Lour. metabolites as a medicinal herb for anticancer drug development.
Naturalized Dyes: A New Opportunity for the Wood Coloring
Authors: Vespignani Laura , Bonanni Marco , Marradi Marco , Pizzo Benedetto , Bianchini Roberto , Goli Giacomo
Published: September 2023

Naturalized dyes (NDs) are innovative and eco-friendly synthetic compounds in which a chromophore is covalently linked to a natural sugar (e.g., lactose). The sugar moiety confers water-solubility and biocompatibility to the dye molecule as a whole. NDs have demonstrated potential application in dyeing textiles and leather. The purpose of this work was to demonstrate that selected NDs can be also applied to dye wood. To that aim, two NDs were tested to color beech and poplar wood. The NDs were applied as a simple aqueous solution or mixed with a waterborne, biogenic staining agent (commercially available Gemma U50). Moreover, the effect of the application of a biogenic waterborne top coat (commercially available Resina Plus U49) was also studied. Different methods were tested to investigate the potential application of these NDs to wood. The dyeing behavior was analyzed in terms of penetration into the substrate, covering capacity and color homogeneity through macro- and microscopic observations and colorimetric measurements. The color fastness to water washout and the color stability to light, in particular by exposing the wooden samples to artificial aging (UV radiations in a Solar Box), were also investigated. The NDs, when used as water solutions, were able to afford a homogeneous coating and a pleasant appearance on the wood surface, as well as a good color fastness to washout with water. Dissolving the dyes in the stain or applying the top coat generally resulted in even better color fastness to washout. However, all the application methods tested showed limited resistance to fading in the Solar Box, which therefore remains a drawback for this type of product.
Analyzing Surface Roughness Variations in Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing of Nylon Carbon Fiber Composites
Authors: Abas Muhammad , Awadh Mohammed Al , Habib Tufail , Noor Sahar
Published: September 2023

In recent years, fused deposition modeling (FDM) based on material extrusion additive manufacturing technology has become widely accepted as a cost-effective method for fabricating engineering components with net-shapes. However, the limited exploration of the influence of FDM process parameters on surface roughness parameters, i.e., Ra (average surface roughness), Rq (root mean square surface roughness), and Rz (maximum height of the profile) across different sides (bottom, top, and walls) poses a challenge for the fabrication of functional parts. This research aims to bridge the knowledge gap by analyzing surface roughness under various process parameters and optimizing it for nylon carbon fiber printed parts. A definitive screening design (DSD) was employed for experimental runs. The Pareto chart highlighted the significant effects of layer height, part orientation, and infill density on all surface roughness parameters and respective sides. The surface morphology was analyzed through optical microscopy. Multi-response optimization was performed using an integrated approach of composited desirability function and entropy. The findings of the present study hold significant industrial applications, enhancing the quality and performance of 3D printed parts. From intricate prototypes to durable automotive components, the optimized surfaces contribute to production of functional and visually appealing products across various sectors.
Hydrogel Formulations for Topical Insulin Application: Preparation, Characterization and In Vitro Permeation across the Strat-M® Membrane
Authors: Ostróżka-Cieślik Aneta , Wilczyński Sławomir , Dolińska Barbara
Published: September 2023

Insulin has shown efficacy in the treatment of hard-to-heal wounds, which is mainly due to its role in regulating oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions. The aim of this study was to develop an insulin–hydrogel carrier based on Sepineo™ P 600 and Sepineo™ PHD 100 for application to lesional skin. Preformulation studies of the developed formulations were performed in terms of analysis of the pharmaceutical availability of insulin from the hydrogels through the Strat-M® membrane, and rheological and texture measurements. Insulin is released in a prolonged manner; after a time of 6.5 h, 4.01 IU/cm2 (53.36%) and 3.69 IU/cm2 (47.4%) of the hormone were released from the hydrogel based on Sepineo™ P 600 and Sepineo™ PHD 100, respectively. Rheological analysis showed that the hydrogels tested belong to non-Newtonian, shear-thinning systems with yield stress. The insulin–hydrogel based on Sepineo™ P 600 and Sepineo™ PHD 100 shows optimal application properties. The results obtained provide a basis for further preclinical and clinical studies.
A Study of Isosorbide Synthesis from Sorbitol for Material Applications Using Isosorbide Dimethacrylate for Enhancement of Bio-Based Resins
Authors: Jašek Vojtěch , Fučík Jan , Krhut Jiří , Mravcova Ludmila , Figalla Silvestr , Přikryl Radek
Published: September 2023

Bio-based cross-linkers can fulfill the role of enhancing additives in bio-sourced curable materials that do not compare with artificial resin precursors. Isosorbide dimethacrylate (ISDMMA) synthesized from isosorbide (ISD) can serve as a cross-linker from renewable sources. Isosorbide is a bicyclic carbon molecule produced by the reaction modification of sorbitol and the optimal conditions of this reaction were studied in this work. The reaction temperature of 130 °C and 1% w/w amount of para-toluenesulfonic acid (p-TSA) were determined as optimal and resulted in a yield of 81.9%. Isosorbide dimethacrylate was synthesized via nucleophilic substitution with methacrylic anhydride (MAA) with the conversion of 94.1% of anhydride. Formed ISD and ISDMMA were characterized via multiple verification methods (FT-IR, MS, 1H NMR, and XRD). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) proved the curability of ISDMMA (activation energy Ea of 146.2 kJ/mol) and the heat-resistant index of ISDMMA (Ts reaching value of 168.9) was determined using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Characterized ISDMMA was added to the precursor mixture containing methacrylated alkyl 3-hydroxybutyrates (methyl ester M3HBMMA and ethyl ester E3HBMMA), and the mixtures were cured via photo-initiation. The amount of ISDMMA cross-linker increased all measured parameters obtained via dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), such as storage modulus (E’) and glass transition temperature (Tg), and the calculated cross-linking densities (νe). Therefore, the enhancement influence of bio-based ISDMMA on resins from renewable sources was confirmed.
Green, Eco-Friendly, Highly Biocompatible and Bioactive Nanocomposite-Based Biopolymers Loaded with ZnO@Fe3O4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Allogmani Ayed S. , Mohamed Roushdy M. , Hasanin Mohamed S.
Published: September 2023

Biocompatibility is a major concern for promising multifunctional bioactive materials. Unfortunately, bioactive materials lack biocompatibility in some respects, so active ingredient formulations are urgently needed. Bimetallic nanoparticles have demonstrated drawbacks in stabilized biocompatible formulations. This study examined the preparation of biomaterial-based multifunctional biopolymers via an eco-friendly formulation method using ultrasound. Bimetallic zinc oxide/iron oxide (magnetic form) nanoparticles (ZnO@Fe3O4NPs) were formulated using casein and starch as capping agents and stabilizers. The formulated nanocomposite was characterized using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). Herein, the formulated nanocomposite was shown to have a thermally stable nanostructure, and the bimetallic ZnO@Fe3O4 NPs were measured as 85 nm length and 13 nm width. Additionally, the biocompatibility test showed its excellent cytocompatibility with Wi 38 and Vero normal cell lines, with IC50 550 and 650 mg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity was noted against six pathogens that are represent to the most common pathogenic microbes, with the time required for killing of bacteria and unicellular fungi being 19 h and 61 h for filamentous fungi with remarket an excellent antioxidant activity.
Magnetically Controlled Hyaluronic Acid–Maghemite Nanocomposites with Embedded Doxorubicin
Authors: Spiridonov Vasily , Zoirova Zukhra , Alyokhina Yuliya , Perov Nikolai , Afanasov Mikhail , Pozdyshev Denis , Krjukova Daria , Knotko Alexander , Muronetz Vladimir , Yaroslavov Alexander
Published: September 2023

The controllable delivery of drugs is a key task of pharmacology. For this purpose, a series of polymer composites was synthesized via the cross-linking of hyaluronate and a hyaluronate/polyacrylate mixture with Fe2O3 nanoparticles. The cross-linking imparts magnetic properties to the composites, which are more pronounced for the ternary hyaluronate/polyacrylate/γ-Fe2O3 composites compared with the binary hyaluronate/Fe2O3 composites. When dispersed in water, the composites produce microsized hydrogel particles. Circulation of the ternary microgels in an aqueous solution at a speed of 1.84 cm/s can be stopped using a permanent external magnet with a magnetic flux density of 400 T. The composite hydrogels can absorb the antitumor antibiotic doxorubicin (Dox); the resulting constructs show their cytotoxicity to tumor cells to be comparable to the cytotoxicity of Dox itself. The addition of the hyaluronidase enzyme induces degradation of the binary and ternary microgels down to smaller particles. This study presents prospectives for the preparation of magnetically controlled biodegradable polymer carriers for the encapsulation of bioactive substances.
Optimization of Thermal Conductivity and Tensile Properties of High-Density Polyethylene by Addition of Expanded Graphite and Boron Nitride
Authors: Travaš Lovro , Rujnić Havstad Maja , Pilipović Ana
Published: September 2023

Due to its mechanical, rheological, and chemical properties, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is commonly used as a material for producing the pipes for transport of various media. Low thermal conductivity (0.4 W/mK) narrows down the usage of HDPE in the heat exchanger systems. The main goal of the work is to reduce the vertical depth of the HDPE pipe buried in the borehole by increasing the thermal conductivity of the material. This property can be improved by adding certain additives to the pure HDPE matrix. Composites made of HDPE with metallic and non-metallic additives show increased thermal conductivity several times compared to the thermal conductivity of pure HDPE. Those additives affect the mechanical properties too, by enhancing or degrading them. In this research, the thermal conductivity and tensile properties of composite made of HDPE matrix and two types of additives, expanded graphite (EG) and boron nitride (BN), were tested. Micro-sized particles of EG and two different sizes of BN particles, micro and nano, were used to produce composite. The objective behind utilizing composite materials featuring dual additives is twofold: firstly, to enhance thermal properties, and secondly, to improve mechanical properties when compared with the pure HDPE. As anticipated, the thermal conductivity of the composites exhibited an eightfold rise in comparison to the pure HDPE. The tensile modulus experienced augmentation across all variations of additive ratios within the composites, albeit with a marginal reduction in tensile strength. This implies that the composite retains a value similar to pure HDPE in terms of tensile strength. Apart from the enhancement observed in all the aforementioned properties, the most significant downside of these composites pertains to their strain at yield, which experienced a reduction, declining from the initial 8.5% found in pure HDPE to a range spanning from 6.6% to 1.8%, dependent upon the specific additive ratios and the size of the BN particles.
Developing a Biodegradable Film for Packaging with Lignocellulosic Materials from the Amazonian Biodiversity
Authors: Silva Danillo Wisky , Batista Felipe Gomes , Scatolino Mário Vanoli , Mascarenhas Adriano Reis Prazeres , De Medeiros Dayane Targino , Tonoli Gustavo Henrique Denzin , Lazo Daniel Alberto Álvarez , Caselli Francisco de Tarso Ribeiro , de Souza Tiago Marcolino , Alves Junior Francisco Tarcísio
Published: September 2023

The development of packaging films made from renewable raw materials, which cause low environmental impact, has gained attention due to their attractive properties, which have become an exciting option for synthetic films. In this study, cellulose micro/nanofibrils (MFC/NFC) films were produced with forest residues from the Amazon region and evaluated for their potential to generate alternative packaging to traditional plastic packaging. The MFC/NFC were obtained by mechanical fibrillation from fibers of açaí seeds (Euterpe oleracea), titica vine (Heteropsis flexuosa), and commercial pulps of Eucalyptus sp. for comparison. The fibrillation of the titica vine culminated in higher energy expenditure on raw materials. The açaí films showed a higher tensile strength (97.2 MPa) compared to the titica films (46.2 MPa), which also showed a higher permeability rate (637.3 g day−1 m−2). Films of all raw materials scored the highest in the grease resistance test (n° 12). The films produced in the study showed potential for use in packaging for light and low moisture products due to their adequate physical, mechanical, and barrier characteristics. New types of pre-treatments or fibrillation methods ecologically correct and viable for reducing energy consumption must be developed, mainly for a greater success of titica vine fibrillation at the nanoscale.
Changes in the Gut Microbiota Composition during Implantation of Composite Scaffolds Based on Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and Alginate on the Large-Intestine Wall
Authors: Dudun Andrei , Chesnokova Dariana , Voinova Vera , Bonartsev Anton , Bonartseva Garina
Published: September 2023

The development of biopolymer scaffolds for intestine regeneration is one of the most actively developing areas in tissue engineering. However, intestinal regenerative processes after scaffold implantation depend on the activity of the intestinal microbial community that is in close symbiosis with intestinal epithelial cells. In this work, we study the impact of different scaffolds based on biocompatible poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and alginate (ALG) as well as PHB/ALG scaffolds seeded with probiotic bacteria on the composition of gut microbiota of Wistar rats. Implantation of PHB/ALG scaffolds on the large-intestine wall to close its injury showed that alpha diversity of the gut microbiota was not reduced in rats implanted with different PHB/ALG scaffolds except for the PHB/ALG scaffolds with the inclusion of Lactobacillus spheres (PHB/ALG-L). The composition of the gut microbiota of rats implanted with PHB/ALG scaffolds with probiotic bacteria or in simultaneous use of an antimicrobial agent (PHB/ALG-AB) differed significantly from other experimental groups. All rats with implanted scaffolds demonstrated shifts in the composition of the gut microbiota by individual operational taxonomic units. The PHB/ALG-AB construct led to increased abundance of butyrate-producing bacteria: Ileibacterium sp. dominated in rats with implanted PHB/ALG-L and Lactobacillus sp. and Bifidobacterium sp. dominated in the control group. In addition, the PHB/ALG scaffolds had a favourable effect on the growth of commensal bacteria. Thus, the effect of implantation of the PHB/ALG scaffold compared to other scaffolds on the composition of the gut microbiota was closest to the control variant, which may demonstrate the biocompatibility of this device with the microbiota.
Design, Multi-Perspective Computational Investigations, and Experimental Correlational Studies on Conventional and Advanced Design Profile Modified Hybrid Wells Turbines Patched with Piezoelectric Vibrational Energy Harvester Devices for Coastal Regions
Authors: Thangaraj Janani , Madasamy Senthil Kumar , Rajendran Parvathy , Zulkifli Safiah , Rajapandi Rajkumar , AL-bonsrulah Hussein A. Z. , Stanislaus Arputharaj Beena , Jeyaraj Hari Prasath , Raja Vijayanandh
Published: September 2023

This work primarily investigates the performance and structural integrity of the Wells turbines for power production in coastal locations and their associated unmanned vehicles. An innovative design procedure is imposed on the design stage of the Wells turbine and thus so seven different models are generated. In the first comprehensive investigation, these seven models underwent computational hydrodynamic analysis using ANSYS Fluent 17.2 for various coastal working environments such as hydro-fluid speeds of 0.34 m/s, 1.54 m/s, 12 m/s, and 23 m/s. After this primary investigation, the best-performing Wells turbine model has been imposed as the second comprehensive computational investigation for three unique design profiles. The imposed unique design profile is capable of enhancing the hydro-power by 15.19%. Two detailed, comprehensive investigations suggest the best Wells turbine for coastal location-based applications. Since the working environments are complicated, additional advanced computational investigations are also implemented on the best Wells turbine. The structural withstanding capability of this best Wells turbine model has been tested through coupled computational hydro-structural analysis for various lightweight materials. This best Wells turbine also enforces the vibrational failure factors such as modal and harmonic vibrational analyses. Finally, advanced and validated coupled engineering approaches are proposed as good methodology for coastal location-based hydropower applications.
The Analysis of Hydraulic Fracture Morphology and Connectivity under the Effect of Well Interference and Natural Fracture in Shale Reservoirs
Authors: Li Shuangming , Zhao Huan , Cheng Tian , Wang Jia , Gai Jingming , Zou Linhao , He Tiansu
Published: September 2023

Employing multi-stage fracturing technology in horizontally accessed wells is a well-known way to successfully develop shale reservoirs. The interaction between natural fractures and hydraulic fractures has a significant impact on the fracturing effect. In this study, a coupled model of rock deformation and fluid flow was established using the cohesive zone method to simulate the propagation of hydraulic fractures under the synergistic effect of natural fractures and wellbore interference. The influence of in situ stress, fracture spacing, the number of fracture clusters, and the fracturing methods on the formation of fracture networks was analyzed. Studies on the fracture morphology and connectivity of fracture networks show that when the in situ stress difference is small, multiple fractures can easily form, and when the in situ stress difference is large, they can easily gather into a single fracture. An excessive reduction in fracture spacing may impede the optimal propagation and interconnection of hydraulic fractures. The findings reveal that augmenting the fracture spacing from 5 m to 8 m results in a significant 15.59% increase in the overall extent of fracture propagation. Moreover, it also adds to the complexity of the fracture network. Increasing the number of hydraulic fracturing clusters can improve the fracture length and fracture propagation complexity. When the number of fracturing clusters increased from two clusters to five clusters, the maximum fracture propagation width increased by 25.23%. Comparing sequential fracturing and simultaneous fracturing, the results show that simultaneous fracturing can form a more complex fracture network with better connectivity, which is conducive to increasing oil and gas production. The obtained results can provide a reference for horizontal well fracturing designs of shale reservoirs.
Reaction Behavior of Kaolinite in Sulfur-Bearing Sodium Aluminate Solution under the Simulated Bayer Process
Authors: Niu Fei , Liu Guihua , Zhu Junqiang , Pan Jun , Qi Tiangui , Wang Saikui , Li Xiaobin , Wang Shi , Yang Youming
Published: September 2023

Over a billion tons of high-sulfur bauxite has not been utilized effectively currently in China, because the pyrite existing in the bauxite poses a range of hazards during the Bayer process. A novel idea was proposed to remove sulfur by the silicon-containing minerals in bauxite reacting with sulfur species in sodium aluminate solution to form sulfur-bearing desilication products (SDSP) for discharge with the red mud in the Bayer process. This study investigated the reaction behavior between kaolinite and different sulfur-containing ions under the simulated Bayer process conditions, elucidating the desulfurization rate variation and formation mechanism of SDSPs. The thermodynamic calculations suggest that the reaction between kaolinite and sulfur-bearing sodium aluminate solution to form SDSPs can occur spontaneously. The experimental results demonstrated that various SDSPs can be produced through the reaction of kaolinite and sulfur-containing ions in sodium aluminate solution during the simulated Bayer process, resulting in various desulfurization efficiencies, while the desulfurization process will not result in additional alkali consumption. Increasing the kaolinite dosage, extending the reaction time, and elevating the reaction temperature all contribute positively to enhancing desulfurization efficiency. Kaolinite reacted with S2O32− in sodium aluminate solution to generate Na8Al6Si6O24S2O3·2H2O, achieving a desulfurization rate exceeding 90% under optimized conditions. Under the simulated Bayer digestion process conditions at elevated temperature, the desulfurization rates of kaolinite ranked in ascending order as S2− < SO32−  < SO42− < S2O32−. Kaolinite reacted with SO42− and S2O32− to form cancrinite type SDSPs, and a superior desulfurization rate can be achieved. This work can provide a theoretical foundation and technological support for the efficient utilization of high-sulfur bauxite by the Bayer process.