bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclic Stability of Two-Way Shape Memory Effect in Aged Ni50.3Ti32.2Hf17.5 Polycrystals after Various Thermomechanical Treatments
Authors: Panchenko Elena , Tagiltsev Anton , Timofeeva Ekaterina , Chumlyakov Yuriy , Marchenko Ekaterina
Published: September 2023

In the present paper, the cyclic stability of the high-temperature two-way shape memory effect was studied in high-strength Ni50.3Ti32.2Hf17.5 polycrystals after various thermomechanical treatments—training (thermocycling under stress) and stress-induced martensite aging. The effect of training and stress-induced martensite aging on the microstructure, the two-way shape memory effect, and its cyclic stability was determined. It was found out that both thermomechanical treatments induce the high-temperature two-way shape memory effect at T > 373 K, with a strain of 1.5% in tension. The influence of cyclic tests (up to 100 stress-free cycles of cooling/heating) on the two-way shape memory effect strain, the transformation temperatures, and the microstructure was established. Different degradation mechanisms of the two-way shape memory effect were established after thermocycling and stress-induced martensite aging.
Study of Ultrasonic Guided Wave Propagation in Bone Composite Structures for Revealing Osteoporosis Diagnostic Indicators
Authors: Glushkov Evgeny V. , Glushkova Natalia V. , Ermolenko Olga A. , Tatarinov Alexey M.
Published: September 2023

Tubular bones are layered waveguide structures composed of soft tissue, cortical and porous bone tissue, and bone marrow. Ultrasound diagnostics of such biocomposites are based on the guided wave excitation and registration by piezoelectric transducers applied to the waveguide surface. Meanwhile, the upper sublayers shield the diseased interior, creating difficulties in extracting information about its weakening from the surface signals. To overcome these difficulties, we exploit the advantages of the Green’s matrix-based approach and adopt the methods and algorithms developed for the guided wave structural health monitoring of industrial composites. Based on the computer models implementing this approach and experimental measurements performed on bone phantoms, we analyze the feasibility of using different wave characteristics to detect hidden diagnostic signs of developing osteoporosis. It is shown that, despite the poor excitability of the most useful modes associated with the diseased inner layers, the use of the improved matrix pencil method combined with objective functions based on the Green’s matrix allows for effective monitoring of changes in the elastic moduli of the deeper sublayers. We also note the sensitivity and monotonic dependence of the resonance response frequencies on the degradation of elastic properties, making them a promising indicator for osteoporosis diagnostics.
Environmentally-Friendly Materials in Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Zinicovscaia Inga , Balintova Magdalena
Published: September 2023

The intensive development of industry and agriculture caused by high population growth results in the release of large volumes of wastewater containing organic and inorganic pollutants into the environment [...]
ESD Research of SCR Devices under Harsh Environments
Authors: Lin Chien-Chun , Lin Chun-Yu
Published: September 2023

In prior technology, system-level electrostatic discharge (ESD) tests under environment change conditions mainly focused on testing the effect of a high-temperature environment. i.e., the effect on internal circuits of heat generated outside. However, few studies have explored the effect of ambient relative humidity changes on integrated circuits (ICs). Therefore, this study will analyze the performance of various ESD protection components under high ambient temperature and high ambient relative humidity. The ESD protection devices are tested for the ESD robustness of the silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCR) under a harsh environment and the measurement results are discussed and verified in the CMOS process.
Effect of Surface Activation on the Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of MAO/Ni-P Composite Coating on AZ91D Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Xu Qi , Zhou Peng , Zhang Tao , Wang Fuhui
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study is to improve the number and distribution of active particles on the MAO layer by changing the activation method, thus improving the corrosion resistance of the coating. The structure of the coatings was characterized by SEM, XRD, XPS, and AFM, as well as the corrosion resistance of the coatings by polarization curves, EIS tests, immersion tests, and salt spray tests. The conductive resistance and adhesion of different composite coatings were compared. The results demonstrate that the properties of the composite coating are significantly affected by different activation methods, and the Ni-P coating prepared with more active particles offers superior corrosion protection to the inner layer. The quantity and distribution of active particles affect the compactness of the coating by influencing the initial deposition process. The size of nickel particles is larger and the inter-grain porosity increases in the case of fewer active sites, and as the number of active sites increases, the size of nickel particles decreases, and the coating compactness increases. The mechanism of the effect of the number of active particles on the deposition process of electroless Ni-P coating was proposed.
A Study on the Interfacial Reactions between Gallium and Cu/Ni/Au(Pd) Multilayer Metallization
Authors: Kim Byungwoo , Kim Chang-Lae , Sohn Yoonchul
Published: September 2023

This research introduces low-temperature soldering of Ga with practical metallization structures, namely, Cu/Ni/Pd and Cu/Ni/Au, applied to contemporary microelectronic packages. Through these multilayer configurations, the study investigates the stability of the Ni diffusion barrier by examining changes in the interfacial microstructure as Ni is consumed. The interfacial reactions are conducted across a temperature spectrum of 160, 200, 240, and 280 °C, with reaction durations ranging from 30 to 270 min. Valuable insights for low-temperature soldering with Ga are extracted from the data. At lower reaction temperatures, the presence of Ga-rich intermetallic compounds (IMCs), specifically GaxNi (x = 89 to 95 at%), on the Ga7Ni3 layer is notably confirmed. As the reaction temperature and duration increase, the gradual consumption of the Ni layer occurs. This gives rise to the formation of Ga-Cu IMCs, specifically CuGa2 and γ3-Cu9Ga4, beneath the Ga-Ni IMC layer. Concurrently, the gap between the Ga-Ni and Ga-Cu IMC layers widens, allowing molten Ga to infiltrate. The rate of Ga7Ni3 growth follows a time exponent ranging approximately from 1.1 to 1.7. This highlights the significant influence of interface reaction-controlled kinetics on Ga7Ni3 IMC growth. The activation energy for Ga7Ni3 growth is determined to be 61.5 kJ/mol. The growth of Ga7Ni3 is believed to be primarily driven by the diffusion of Ga atoms along grain boundaries, with the porous microstructure inherent in the Ga7Ni3 layer providing additional diffusion pathways.
Automated Fiber Placement Path Planning and Analysis of Pressure Vessels
Authors: Wang Bo , Wen Lihua , Xiao Jinyou , Wang Shiyu , Ren Ping , Wang Liqiang , Zu Lei , Hou Xiao
Published: September 2023

The automated fiber placement (AFP) process faces a crucial challenge: the emergence of out-of-plane buckling in thermoplastic prepreg tows during steering, significantly impeding the quality of composite layup. In response, this study introduces a novel approach: the development of equations for wrinkle-free fiber placement within composite pressure vessels. The investigation encompasses a detailed analysis of prepreg trajectories in relation to shell geometry, accompanied by an in-depth understanding of the underlying causes of wrinkling on dome surfaces. Moreover, a comprehensive model for shell coverage, grounded in placement parameters, is meticulously established. To validate the approach, a simulation tool is devised to calculate press roller motions, ensuring the uniform fiber dispersion on the mandrel and achieving flawless coverage of the shell without wrinkles. This innovative strategy not only optimizes the AFP process for composite layup but also remarkably enhances the overall quality of composite shells. As such, this research carries significant implications for the advancement of composite manufacturing techniques and the concurrent improvement in material performance.
Design and Optimization of Hydropneumatic Suspension Simulation Test Bench with Electro-Hydraulic Proportional Control
Authors: Wu Zhibo , Jiao Bin , Sun Chuanmeng , Zhang Yanbing , Zhao Heming
Published: September 2023

Available hydropneumatic suspension simulation test benches have insufficient loading accuracy and limited functionality rendering them unsuitable for performance testing of heavy vehicles with this type of suspension. Therefore, a multi-functional compound simulation test bench was designed that used an electro-hydraulic proportional control technique. A mathematical model was established to describe the hydraulic loading system, and the transfer function of the system was derived. The gain and phase margins confirmed the stability of the system. A simulation model was established in the Simulink environment and step and sine signals of different frequencies were applied separately to analyze the dynamic characteristics of the system. The results showed that the system responded slowly and exhibited phase lag and signal distortion. The dynamic characteristics of the system were improved by incorporating an adaptive fuzzy PID controller. Simulation results showed that the response of the system to the step signal stabilized at the preset value within 0.3 s with no oscillation or overshoot. The improved system performed well in replicating the random vibrations of heavy vehicles operating on Class B and C roads. This confirmed that the system can satisfy the loading requirements of heavy vehicle hydropneumatic suspensions and can be used as a simulation test bench for such suspensions.
Comparative Study of Magnetic Properties of (Mn1−xAxIV)Bi2Te4 AIV = Ge, Pb, Sn
Authors: Estyunin Dmitry A. , Rybkina Anna A. , Kokh Konstantin A. , Tereshchenko Oleg E. , Likholetova Marina V. , Klimovskikh Ilya I. , Shikin Alexander M.
Published: September 2023

We investigated the magnetic properties of the antiferromagnetic (AFM) topological insulator MnBi2Te4 with a partial substitution of Mn atoms by non-magnetic elements (AIV = Ge, Pb, Sn). Samples with various element concentrations (10–80%) were studied using SQUID magnetometry. The results demonstrate that, for all substitutes the type of magnetic ordering remains AFM, while the Néel temperature (TN) and spin-flop transition field (HSF) decrease with an increasing AIV = Ge, Pb, Sn concentration. The rate of decrease varies among the elements, being highest for Pb, followed by Sn and Ge. This behavior is attributed to the combined effects of the magnetic dilution and lattice parameter increase on magnetic properties, most prominent in (Mn1−xPbx)Bi2Te4. Besides this, the linear approximation of the experimental data of TN and HSF suggests higher magnetic parameters for pure MnBi2Te4 than observed experimentally, indicating the possibility of their non-monotonic variation at low concentrations and the potential for enhancing magnetic properties through doping MnBi2Te4 with small amounts of nonmagnetic impurities. Notably, the (Mn1−xPbx)Bi2Te4 sample with 10% Pb substitution indeed exhibits increased magnetic parameters, which is also validated by local-probe analyses using ARPES. Our findings shed light on tailoring the magnetic behavior of MnBi2Te4-based materials, offering insights into the potential applications in device technologies.
ASIDS: A Robust Data Synthesis Method for Generating Optimal Synthetic Samples
Authors: Du Yukun , Cai Yitao , Jin Xiao , Wang Hongxia , Li Yao , Lu Min
Published: September 2023

Most existing data synthesis methods are designed to tackle problems with dataset imbalance, data anonymization, and an insufficient sample size. There is a lack of effective synthesis methods in cases where the actual datasets have a limited number of data points but a large number of features and unknown noise. Thus, in this paper we propose a data synthesis method named Adaptive Subspace Interpolation for Data Synthesis (ASIDS). The idea is to divide the original data feature space into several subspaces with an equal number of data points, and then perform interpolation on the data points in the adjacent subspaces. This method can adaptively adjust the sample size of the synthetic dataset that contains unknown noise, and the generated sample data typically contain minimal errors. Moreover, it adjusts the feature composition of the data points, which can significantly reduce the proportion of the data points with large fitting errors. Furthermore, the hyperparameters of this method have an intuitive interpretation and usually require little calibration. Analysis results obtained using simulated original data and benchmark original datasets demonstrate that ASIDS is a robust and stable method for data synthesis.
Mixture Representations for Generalized Burr, Snedecor–Fisher and Generalized Student Distributions with Related Results
Authors: Korolev Victor , Zeifman Alexander
Published: September 2023

In this paper, the representability of the generalized Student’s distribution as uniform and normal-scale mixtures is considered. It is also shown that the generalized Burr and the Snedecor–Fisher distributions can be represented as the scale mixtures of uniform, folded normal, exponential, Weibull or Fréchet distributions. New multiplication-type theorems are proven for these and related distributions. The relation between the generalized Student and generalized Burr distribution is studied. It is shown that the Snedecor–Fisher distribution is a special case of the generalized Burr distribution. Based on these mixture representations, some limit theorems are proven for random sums in which the symmetric and asymmetric generalized Student or symmetric and asymmetric two-sided generalized Burr distributions are limit laws. Also, limit theorems are proven for maximum and minimum random sums and absolute values of random sums in which the generalized Burr distributions are limit laws.
A Deep Reinforcement Learning Approach to Optimal Morphologies Generation in Reconfigurable Tiling Robots
Authors: Kalimuthu Manivannan , Hayat Abdullah Aamir , Pathmakumar Thejus , Rajesh Elara Mohan , Wood Kristin Lee
Published: September 2023

Reconfigurable robots have the potential to perform complex tasks by adapting their morphology to different environments. However, designing optimal morphologies for these robots is challenging due to the large design space and the complex interactions between the robot and the environment. An in-house robot named Smorphi, having four holonomic mobile units connected with three hinge joints, is designed to maximize area coverage with its shape-changing features using transformation design principles (TDP). The reinforcement learning (RL) approach is used to identify the optimal morphologies out of a vast combination of hinge angles for a given task by maximizing a reward signal that reflects the robot’s performance. The proposed approach involves three steps: (i) Modeling the Smorphi design space with a Markov decision process (MDP) for sequential decision-making; (ii) a footprint-based complete coverage path planner to compute coverage and path length metrics for various Smorphi morphologies; and (iii) pptimizing policies through proximal policy optimization (PPO) and asynchronous advantage actor–critic (A3C) reinforcement learning techniques, resulting in the generation of energy-efficient, optimal Smorphi robot configurations by maximizing rewards. The proposed approach is applied and validated using two different environment maps, and the results are also compared with the suboptimal random shapes along with the Pareto front solutions using NSGA-II. The study contributes to the field of reconfigurable robots by providing a systematic approach for generating optimal morphologies that can improve the performance of reconfigurable robots in a variety of tasks.
A Double-Layer Indemnity Enhancement Using LSTM and HASH Function Technique for Intrusion Detection System
Authors: Ali Abdullah Marish , Alqurashi Fahad , Alsolami Fawaz Jaber , Qaiyum Sana
Published: September 2023

The Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is the most widely used network security mechanism for distinguishing between normal and malicious traffic network activities. It aids network security in that it may identify unforeseen hazards in network traffic. Several techniques have been put forth by different researchers for network intrusion detection. However, because network attacks have increased dramatically, making it difficult to execute precise detection rates quickly, the demand for effectively recognizing network incursion is growing. This research proposed an improved solution that uses Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and hash functions to construct a revolutionary double-layer security solution for IoT Network Intrusion Detection. The presented framework utilizes standard and well-known real-time IDS datasets such as KDDCUP99 and UNSWNB-15. In the presented framework, the dataset was pre-processed, and it employed the Shuffle Shepherd Optimization (SSO) algorithm for tracking the most informative attributes from the filtered database. Further, the designed model used the LSTM algorithm for classifying the normal and malicious network traffic precisely. Finally, a secure hash function SHA3-256 was utilized for countering the attacks. The intensive experimental assessment of the presented approach with the conventional algorithms emphasized the efficiency of the proposed framework in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, etc. The analysis showed that the presented model attained attack prediction accuracy of 99.92% and 99.91% for KDDCUP99 and UNSWNB-15, respectively.
Phase Equilibria, Solidified Microstructure, and Hydrogen Transport Behaviour in the V-Ti-Co System
Authors: Yan Erhu , Guo Zhijie , Jia Limin , Wang Yihao , Zhang Shuo , Li Tangwei , Zou Yongjin , Chu Hailiang , Zhang Huanzhi , Xu Fen , Sun Lixian
Published: September 2023

At present, the V-Ti-Co phase diagram is not established, which seriously hinders the subsequent development of this potential hydrogen permeation alloy system. To this end, this article constructed the first phase diagram of the V-Ti-Co system by using the CALculation of PHAse Diagrams (CALPHAD) approach as well as relevant validation experiments. On this basis, hydrogen-permeable VxTi50Co50−x (x = 17.5, 20.5, …, 32.5) alloys were designed, and their microstructure characteristics and hydrogen transport behaviour were further studied by XRD, SEM, EDS, and so on. It was found that six ternary invariant reactions are located in the liquidus projection, and the phase diagram is divided into eight phase regions by their connecting lines. Among them, some alloys in the TiCo phase region were proven to be promising candidate materials for hydrogen permeation. Typically, VxTi50Co50−x (x = 17.5–23.5) alloys, which consist of the primary TiCo and the eutectic {bcc-(V, Ti) and TiCo} structure, show a high hydrogen permeability without hydrogen embrittlement. In particular, V23.5Ti50Co26.5 exhibit the highest permeability of 4.05 × 10−8 mol H2 m−1s−1Pa−0.5, which is the highest value known heretofore in the V-Ti-Co system. The high permeability of these alloys is due in large part to the simultaneous increment of hydrogen solubility and diffusivity, and is closely related to the composition of hydrogen permeable alloys, especially the Ti content in the (V, Ti) phase. The permeability of this alloy system is much higher than those of Nb-TiCo and/or Nb-TiNi alloys.
Break-Arc Erosion and Material Transfer Behavior of Pt–Ir and Pt–Ir–Y Electrical Contact Materials under Different Currents
Authors: Wang Saibei , Wang Song , Sun Yong , Chen Song , Li Aikun , Hu Jieqiong , Peng Mingjun , Xie Ming
Published: September 2023

In order to explore the influence of rare earth element Y on the electrical contact properties of Pt–Ir alloys, Pt–10Ir–Y and Pt–25Ir–Y were prepared via arc melting combined with thermal processing, and electrical contact experiments were carried out with a DC voltage of 24 V and current ranging from 5 A to 25 A. Comparative analyses were conducted to analyze the changes in the break arc duration and arc energy, as well as the contact resistance before and after the addition of Y. The arc erosion surface morphology was characterized, and the transfer behavior of the alloys was discussed. The results show that at 5 A and 25 A, adding Y improves the stability of the arc duration of the Pt–Ir alloy, but it increases the overall arcing energy and decreases the stability. The contact resistance of the Pt–Ir alloy shows a clear partitioning phenomenon; the partitioning phenomenon disappears after the addition of Y, and the contact resistance fluctuates around the average value. The material transfer direction of the Pt–Ir alloy is affected by the current change, while the material transfer direction of the Pt–Ir–Y alloy is always from cathode to anode. The research results provide a reference for the performance optimization of Pt–Ir alloys.
Flow Boiling of Liquid n-Heptane in Microtube with Various Fuel Flow Rate: Experimental and Numerical Study
Authors: Rashid Muhammad Tahir , Ahmad Naseem , Swati Raees Fida , Khan Muhammad Bilal
Published: September 2023

The evaporation of liquid hydrocarbon n-heptane is discussed in detail with experimentation and numerical techniques. A maximum wall temperature of 1050 K was reported during an experimental process with a two-phase flow that was stable and had a prominent meniscus at a small fuel flow rate (FFR) ≤ 10 µL/min. At medium to high FFR (30–70 µL/min), the flow field was unstable, with nucleating bubbles and liquid droplets inside the microtube and the maximum temperature recorded was 850 K for 70 µL/min. For the numerical model, the temperature of the wall was used as a boundary condition. Using the numerical model, the evaporative flux at the meniscus, pressure drop, pressure oscillation, and heat transfer coefficient (HTC) were investigated. A single peak in HTC was obtained at a low fuel flow rate, while multiple peaks were obtained for high FFR. At low FFR, the pressure peak was observed to be 102.4 KPa, whereas at high FFR, the pressure peak increased to 105.5 KPa. This shows a 2% increase in pressure peak with an increase in FFR. Similarly, when the FFR increased from 5 µL/min to 70 µL/min, the pressure drop increased from 500 Pa to 2800 Pa. The high amplitude of pressure drops and a high peak of HTC were found, which depend on the mass flow rate. The coefficient of variation for pressure drop depends mainly on the fuel flow rate.
A Review of Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Aerogel in Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Wu Ze , Yao Xinke , Xing Youqiang
Published: September 2023

Graphene aerogels (GAs) possess a remarkable capability to absorb electromagnetic waves (EMWs) due to their favorable dielectric characteristics and unique porous structure. Nevertheless, the introduction of nitrogen atoms into graphene aerogels can result in improved impedance matching. In recent years, nitrogen-doped graphene aerogels (NGAs) have emerged as promising materials, particularly when combined with magnetic metals, magnetic oxides, carbon nanotubes, and polymers, forming innovative composite systems with excellent multi-functional and broadband absorption properties. This paper provides a comprehensive summary of the synthesis methods and the EMW absorption mechanism of NGAs, along with an overview of the absorption properties of nitrogen-doped graphene-based aerogels. Furthermore, this study sheds light on the potential challenges that NGAs may encounter. By highlighting the substantial contribution of NGAs in the field of EMW absorption, this study aims to facilitate the innovative development of NGAs toward achieving broadband absorption, lightweight characteristics, and multifunctionality.
Rapid Production of Nanoscale Liposomes Using a 3D-Printed Reactor-In-A-Centrifuge: Formulation, Characterisation, and Super-Resolution Imaging
Authors: He Yongqing , Grandi Davide De , Chandradoss Stanley , LuTheryn Gareth , Cidonio Gianluca , Nunes Bastos Ricardo , Pereno Valerio , Carugo Dario
Published: September 2023

Nanoscale liposomes have been extensively researched and employed clinically for the delivery of biologically active compounds, including chemotherapy drugs and vaccines, offering improved pharmacokinetic behaviour and therapeutic outcomes. Traditional laboratory-scale production methods often suffer from limited control over liposome properties (e.g., size and lamellarity) and rely on laborious multistep procedures, which may limit pre-clinical research developments and innovation in this area. The widespread adoption of alternative, more controllable microfluidic-based methods is often hindered by complexities and costs associated with device manufacturing and operation, as well as the short device lifetime and the relatively low liposome production rates in some cases. In this study, we demonstrated the production of liposomes comprising therapeutically relevant lipid formulations, using a cost-effective 3D-printed reactor-in-a-centrifuge (RIAC) device. By adjusting formulation- and production-related parameters, including the concentration of polyethylene glycol (PEG), temperature, centrifugation time and speed, and lipid concentration, the mean size of the produced liposomes could be tuned in the range of 140 to 200 nm. By combining selected experimental parameters, the method was capable of producing liposomes with a therapeutically relevant mean size of ~174 nm with narrow size distribution (polydispersity index, PDI ~0.1) at a production rate of >8 mg/min. The flow-through method proposed in this study has potential to become an effective and versatile laboratory-scale approach to simplify the synthesis of therapeutic liposomal formulations.
Alternative PCR-Based Approaches for Generation of Komagataella phaffii Strains
Authors: Makeeva Anastasiya , Muzaev Dmitry , Shubert Maria , Ianshina Tatiana , Sidorin Anton , Sambuk Elena , Rumyantsev Andrey , Padkina Marina
Published: September 2023

Komagataella phaffii (Pichia pastoris) is a widely known microbial host for recombinant protein production and an emerging model organism in fundamental research. The development of new materials and techniques on this yeast improves heterologous protein synthesis. One of the most prominent ways to enhance protein production efficiency is to select K. phaffii strains with multiple expression cassettes and generate MutS strains using various vectors. In this study, we demonstrate approaches to expand the applications of pPICZ series vectors. Procedures based on PCR amplification and in vivo cloning allow rapid exchange of selectable markers. The combination of PCR amplification with split-marker-mediated transformation allows the development of K. phaffii MutS strains with two expression cassettes using pPICZ vectors. Both PCR-based approaches were applied to efficiently produce interleukin-2 mimetic Neo-2/15 in K. phaffii. The described techniques provide alternative ways to generate and improve K. phaffii strains without the need for obtaining new specific vectors or additional cloning of expression cassettes.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel 3-Cyanopyridone/Pyrazoline Hybrids as Potential Apoptotic Antiproliferative Agents Targeting EGFR/BRAFV600E Inhibitory Pathways
Authors: Al-Wahaibi Lamya H. , Abou-Zied Hesham A. , Hisham Mohamed , Beshr Eman A. M. , Youssif Bahaa G. M. , Bräse Stefan , Hayallah Alaa M. , Abdel-Aziz Mohamed
Published: September 2023

A series of novel 3-cyanopyridone/pyrazoline hybrids (21–30) exhibiting dual inhibition against EGFR and BRAFV600E has been developed. The synthesized target compounds were tested in vitro against four cancer cell lines. Compounds 28 and 30 demonstrated remarkable antiproliferative activity, boasting GI50 values of 27 nM and 25 nM, respectively. These hybrids exhibited dual inhibitory effects on both EGFR and BRAFV600E pathways. Compounds 28 and 30, akin to Erlotinib, displayed promising anticancer potential. Compound 30 emerged as the most potent inhibitor against cancer cell proliferation and BRAFV600E. Notably, both compounds 28 and 30 induced apoptosis by elevating levels of caspase-3 and -8 and Bax, while downregulating the antiapoptotic Bcl2 protein. Molecular docking studies confirmed the potential of compounds 28 and 30 to act as dual EGFR/BRAFV600E inhibitors. Furthermore, in silico ADMET prediction indicated that most synthesized 3-cyanopyridone/pyrazoline hybrids exhibit low toxicity and minimal adverse effects.
Fabrication of Fe3O4 core-TiO2/mesoSiO2 and Fe3O4 core-mesoSiO2/TiO2 Double Shell Nanoparticles for Methylene Blue Adsorption: Kinetic, Isotherms and Thermodynamic Characterization
Authors: El-Toni Ahmed Mohamed , Habila Mohamed A. , Sheikh Mohamed , El-Mahrouky Mohamed , Al-Awadi Abdulrhman S. , Labis Joselito P. , ALOthman Zeid A.
Published: September 2023

Herein, Fe3O4 core-TiO2/mesoSiO2 and Fe3O4 core-mesoSiO2/TiO2 double shell nanoparticles were prepared by first (R1) and second (R2) routes and applied for the removal of methylene blue. The reported adsorption capacities for R1-0.2, R1-0.4 and R2 samples were 128, 118 and 133 mg.g−1, respectively, which were obtained after 80 min as equilibrium contact time, and pH of 6 using a methylene blue concentration of 200 ppm. The adsorption of methylene blue using the prepared Fe3O4 core-meso SiO2/TiO2 double shell was analyzed by kinetic and isotherms models. In addition, thermodynamic investigations were applied to assess the spontaneous nature of the process. The obtained results confirmed that the pseudo-second order model is well fitted with the adsorption data and the Freundlich-isotherm assumption suggested a multilayer adsorption mechanism. In addition, results of the thermodynamic investigation indicated that ΔG° was in the range of −2.3 to −6.8 kJ/mol for R1-0.2, −2.8 to −6.3 kJ/mol for R1-0.4 and −2.0 to −5.2 kJ/mol for R2. In addition, the ΔH° and ΔS° values were found in the range of 26.4 to 36.19 kJ.mol−1 and 94.9 to 126.3 Jmol−1 K−1, respectively. These results confirm that the surfaces of Fe3O4 core-mesoSiO2/TiO2 and Fe3O4 core-TiO2/mesoSiO2 double shell exhibit a spontaneous tendency to adsorb methylene blue from the aqueous solutions. The achieved performance of Fe3O4 core-meso SiO2/TiO2 and Fe3O4 core-TiO2/meso SiO2 double shell as adsorbent for methylene blue removal will encourage future research investigations on the removal of a broad range of contaminants from wastewater.
The Impact of Different Types of Diet on the Prevention of Diseases among Polish Inhabitants, Including COVID-19 Disease
Authors: Gołębiowska Justyna , Zimny-Zając Anna , Makuch Sebastian , Dróżdż Mateusz , Dudek Krzysztof , Żórawska Joanna , Mazur Grzegorz , Agrawal Siddarth
Published: September 2023

Proper nutrition may help in preventing deaths or at least alleviating the symptoms of many chronic diseases. While the COVID-19 disease was still taking its toll, the world had to adjust to new life conditions, which could change nutritional habits. In this observational, cross-sectional study, we aimed to identify the potential correlations between sociodemographic factors and diet and the presence of common chronic diseases among Polish inhabitants. Furthermore, we tried to determine whether the COVID-19 pandemic led to changes in nutritional habits. Therefore, based on the online study (the National Test for Poles’ Health (NTPH), we collected data from 376,102 and 200,000 respondents in two different time frames (before the COVID-19 pandemic: 2019–2020 and during the COVID-19 pandemic: 2021–2022, respectively). Despite the rapid global rise of the COVID-19 pandemic, among our study group, hypertension was still the most commonly occurring disease in both time frames (32.33% in 2019–2020 and 34.95% in 2021–2022, p < 0.001). Furthermore, more chronic diseases were reported during the COVID-19 pandemic than in 2019–2020. Regarding sociodemographic factors, male respondents were more likely to develop hypertension and diabetes (OR = 1.35 CI 95% (1.28–1.43), p < 0.001; and OR = 1.20 CI 95% (1.11–1.30), p < 0.001). Vegetarian diet decreases the likelihood of hypertension, neurological disease, and diabetes (OR = 0.69, CI 95% (0.60–0.81), p < 0.001; OR = 0.72, CI 95% (0.59–0.88), p = 0.001; and OR = 0.73, CI 95% (0.55–0.96), p = 0.026). In line with this, consuming meat meals increases the risk of hypertension (OR = 1.09, CI 95% (1.02–1.17), p = 0.009). Interestingly, a reduced-sodium diet has an association with decreased morbidity of COVID-19 disease (OR = 0.72, CI 95% (0.63–0.82), p < 0.001). This result brings new light to more research to be done to allow efficient prevention of this disease. In conclusion, our study shows the beneficial role of a balanced diet in reducing the incidence rate of common chronic diseases. Our findings may be educational for those who would like to change their nutritional habits and/or for public health professionals to suggest the implementation of proper diets to their patients.
The Role of Dietary Protein in Body Weight Regulation among Active-Duty Military Personnel during Energy Deficit: A Systematic Review
Authors: Anderson Robert E. , Casperson Shanon L. , Kho Hannah , Flack Kyle D.
Published: September 2023

Active-duty military personnel are subjected to sustained periods of energy deficit during combat and training, leaving them susceptible to detrimental reductions in body weight. The importance of adequate dietary protein intake during periods of intense physical training is well established, where previous research has primarily focused on muscle protein synthesis, muscle recovery, and physical performance. Research on how protein intake may influence body weight regulation in this population is lacking; therefore, the objective of this review was to evaluate the role of dietary protein in body weight regulation among active-duty military during an energy deficit. A literature search based on fixed inclusion and exclusion criteria was performed. English language peer-reviewed journal articles from inception to 3 June 2023 were selected for extraction and quality assessment. Eight studies were identified with outcomes described narratively. The study duration ranged from eight days to six months. Protein was directly provided to participants in all studies except for one. Three studies supplied additional protein via supplementation. The Downs and Black Checklist was used to assess study quality. Five studies were classified as good, two as fair, and one as excellent. All studies reported mean weight loss following energy deficit: the most severe was 4.0 kg. Protein dose during energy deficit varied from 0.5 g/kg/day to 2.4 g/kg/day. Six studies reported mean reductions in fat mass, with the largest being 4.5 kg. Four studies reported mean reductions in fat-free mass, while two studies reported an increase. Results support the recommendation that greater than 0.8 g/kg/day is necessary to mitigate the impact of energy deficit on a decline in lean body mass, while intakes up to 1.6 g/kg/day may be preferred. However, exact recommendations cannot be inferred as the severity and duration of energy deficit varied across studies. Longer and larger investigations are needed to elucidate protein’s role during energy deficit in active-duty military.
Effect of a Multifaceted Intervention on Children’s Body Image and the Mediating Role of Body Image in Changes in Adiposity Indicators
Authors: Lyu Jinlang , Wan Zhongshang , Liu Zheng , Zhou Shuang , Feng Xiangxian , Gao Aiyu , Lin Yi , Zhang Fang , Wang Haijun
Published: September 2023

Besides genetic factors and energy-related behaviors, psycho-cultural factors are also important in obesity etiology. Previous studies have suggested that improving body image might be an effective method for managing body weight. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of a multifaceted intervention on the body image of children and explore whether body image played a mediating role in changes in adiposity indicators. This study was embedded in a cluster randomized controlled trial, involving 1287 children from 24 primary schools in three cities in China (Beijing, Changzhi and Urumqi). The 9-month multifaceted intervention on childhood obesity included five components (three targeted children and two targeted environments), and randomization was performed by an independent person who was blinded to the schools. Two indicators (body size perception and body size expectation) were chosen to characterize body image and were measured by Ma figural stimuli at baseline and the end of the trial. Changes in body image indicators were classified as conducive to weight loss or not. Other anthropometric measures and self-reported behaviors were also collected at both time points. Generalized linear mixed models were used in the analyses. Compared to the controls (n = 648), the proportion of body size perception conducive to weight loss increased in the intervention group (n = 639), with an odds ratio of 2.42 (95%CI: 1.70~3.45, p < 0.001). The proportion of body size expectation conducive to weight loss also increased more in the intervention group than in the controls (OR = 1.74, 95%CI: 1.14~2.66, p = 0.010). In children whose baseline nutritional status was “normal weight with higher BMI” or “overweight/obese”, the improvements in body size perception and body size expectation partly mediated the association between the intervention and changes in BMI, BMI Z score, waist circumference and body fat percentage (p < 0.05). This multifaceted study effectively improved the body image of children, which, in turn, led to beneficial changes in adiposity indicators. For the first time, body size perception and body size expectation have been confirmed to be important factors associated with the beneficial effect of a childhood obesity intervention, suggesting that body image components should be generalized in the future.
Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders: The Mediterranean Diet as a Protective Choice
Authors: Ruggeri Rosaria Maddalena , Barbalace Maria Cristina , Croce Laura , Malaguti Marco , Campennì Alfredo , Rotondi Mario , Cannavò Salvatore , Hrelia Silvana
Published: September 2023

Autoimmune thyroid diseases are on the rise worldwide, and such a rapid increase is mainly driven by environmental factors related to changed lifestyles in “modern” societies. In this context, diet seems to play a crucial role. An unhealthy high-energy diet, rich in animal fat and proteins, salt and refined sugars (the so-called “Western diet”) negatively influences the risk of autoimmunity by altering the immune balance and the gut microbiota composition, enhancing oxidative stress and promoting inflammation. In contrast, the Mediterranean diet represents a unique model of healthy eating, characterized by a high intake of food from vegetable sources, a low consumption of saturated fats in favor of unsaturated fats (mainly, olive oil), a moderate consumption of fish (typically, the small oily fishes) and dairy products, as well as a moderate consumption of wine at meals, and a low intake of meat. Thanks to its nutritional components, the Mediterranean Diet positively influences immune system function, gut microbiota composition, and redox homeostasis, exerting anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. The present review was aimed at exploring the existing knowledge on the correlations between dietary habits and thyroid autoimmunity, to evaluate the role of the Mediterranean diet as a protective model.
Effectiveness of the Telemedical Lifestyle Intervention Program TeLIPro for Improvement of HbA1c in Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized-Controlled Trial in a Real-Life Setting
Authors: Kempf Kerstin , Dubois Clara , Arnold Matthias , Amelung Volker , Leppert Nora , Altin Sibel , Vomhof Markus , Icks Andrea , Martin Stephan
Published: September 2023

The effectiveness of the multimodal Telemedical Lifestyle Intervention Program (TeLIPro) was proven in the advanced stages of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Since its therapeutic potential focusing on telemedical coaching without using a formula diet is unknown, we evaluated improvements in HbA1c, HbA1c normalisation rate, cardiometabolic risk factors, quality-of-life, and eating behaviour in real life. In this randomized-controlled trial, AOK Rhineland/Hamburg insured T2DM patients (n = 1163) were randomized (1:1) into two parallel groups, and 817 received the allocated intervention. In addition to routine care, all participants got scales, step counters, and access to an online portal. The TeLIPro group additionally received equipment for self-monitoring of blood glucose and telemedical coaching. Data were collected at baseline, after 6 and 12 months of intervention as well as after a 6-month follow-up. The primary endpoint after 12 months was (i) the estimated treatment difference (ETD) in HbA1c change and (ii) the HbA1c normalisation rate in those with diabetes duration < 5 years. The TeLIPro group demonstrated significantly stronger improvements in HbA1c (ETD −0.4% (−0.5; −0.2); p < 0.001), body weight, body-mass-index, quality-of-life, and eating behaviour, especially in T2DM patients with diabetes duration ≥ 5 years (ETD −0.5% (−0.7; −0.3); p < 0.001). The HbA1c normalisation rate did not significantly differ between groups (25% vs. 18%). Continuous addition of TeLIPro to routine care is effective in improving HbA1c and health-related lifestyle in T2DM patients with longer diabetes duration in real life.
Association of Three Different Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet Indices with Renal Function in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Lin I-Hsin , Duong Tuyen Van , Chen Yi-Chun , Nien Shih-Wei , Tseng I-Hsin , Wu Yi-Ming , Chiang Yang-Jen , Wang Hsu-Han , Chiang Chia-Yu , Chiu Chia-Hui , Wang Ming-Hsu , Chang Chia-Tzu , Yang Nien-Chieh , Lin Ying-Tsen , Wong Te-Chih
Published: September 2023

Several dietary indices assess the impacts of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet on health outcomes. We explored DASH adherence and renal function among 85 Taiwanese renal transplant recipients (RTRs) in a cross-sectional study. Data collection included demographics, routine laboratory data, and 3-day dietary records. Three separate DASH indices, that defined by Camões (based on nine nutrients), that defined by Fung (using seven food groups and sodium), and that modified by Fung (as above but separated for men and women) were used. Renal function was ascertained through the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from patients’ medical records. Participants’ mean age was 49.7 ± 12.6 years and eGFR was 54.71 ± 21.48 mL/min/1.73 m2. The three established DASH diet indices displayed significant correlations (r = 0.50–0.91) and indicated the nutritional adequacy of the diet. Multiple linear regressions indicated a significant positive association between higher DASH scores for each index and increased eGFR. In addition, RTRs in the highest DASH score tertile had higher eGFR rates than those in the lowest tertile, regardless of confounding variables. Adherence to a DASH-style diet correlated with better renal function among RTRs. Educating RTRs about the DASH diet may prevent graft function deterioration.
Analgesic Efficacy and Safety of Tapentadol Immediate Release in Bunionectomy: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Franco-de la Torre Lorenzo , Gómez-Sánchez Eduardo , Aragon-Martinez Othoniel Hugo , Hernández-Gómez Adriana , Franco-González Diana Laura , Guzmán-Flores Juan Manuel , Alonso-Castro Angel Josabad , Granados-Soto Vinicio , Isiordia-Espinoza Mario Alberto
Published: September 2023

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the analgesic effect of different doses of tapentadol immediate release (IR) and its adverse effects after a bunionectomy. Pubmed, Cochrane, Lilacs, Medline, and Imbiomed were used to identify abstracts of scientific publications related to the keywords of this systematic review (PROSPERO ID CRD42023437295). Moreover, the risk of bias in all included articles was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool. Data on the sum of pain intensity, total pain relief, global assessment, and adverse effects were extracted. The statistical method of inverse variance with means difference was used to evaluate the numerical data and the Mantel–Haenszel and Odd Ratio test to analyze the dichotomous data. In addition, the number needed to treat, the number needed to harm, and the 95% confidence intervals were calculated. A qualitative evaluation (n = 2381) was carried out according to the conclusions of the authors. Tapentadol (n = 1772) was more effective in relieving postoperative pain than the placebo (n = 609) after a bunionectomy. In addition, the analgesic efficacy of IR tapentadol (n = 1323) versus the placebo (n = 390) was evaluated in a total of 1713 patients using a global evaluation of the treatments. All three doses of IR tapentadol showed better results compared to the placebo after a bunionectomy. Finally, the adverse effects have a direct relationship with the dose, and the greatest number of adverse effects are most observed with tapentadol IR 100 mg (n = 2381). It is concluded that tapentadol IR (100 mg) leads to the best satisfaction score in this meta-analysis.
The Synergistic Influence of Polyflavonoids from Citrus aurantifolia on Diabetes Treatment and Their Modulation of the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 Signaling Pathways: Molecular Docking Analyses and In Vivo Investigations
Authors: Hassan Mohamed A. , Elmageed Ghada M. Abd , El-Qazaz Ibtehal G. , El-Sayed Doaa S. , El-Samad Lamia M. , Abdou Heba M.
Published: September 2023

This study was aimed at probing the modulatory influence of polyflavonoids extracted from Citrus aurantifolia, lemon peel extract (LPE-polyflavonoids), on attenuating diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications. HPLC investigations of the LPE exhibited the incidence of five flavonoids, including diosmin, biochanin A, hesperidin, quercetin, and hesperetin. The in silico impact on ligand-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) interaction was investigated in terms of polyflavonoid class to explore the non-covalent intakes and binding affinity to the known protein active site. The drug likeness properties and pharmacokinetic parameters of the LPE-polyflavonoids were investigated to assess their bioavailability in relation to Myricetin as a control. Remarkably, the molecular docking studies demonstrated a prominent affinity score of all these agents together with PI3K, implying the potency of the extract to orchestrate PI3K, which is the predominant signal for lessening the level of blood glucose. To verify these findings, in vivo studies were conducted, utilizing diabetic male albino rats treated with LPE-polyflavonoids and other groups treated with hesperidin and diosmin as single flavonoids. Our findings demonstrated that the LPE-polyflavonoids significantly ameliorated the levels of glucose, insulin, glycogen, liver function, carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, G6Pd, and AGEs compared to the diabetic rats and those exposed to hesperidin and diosmin. Furthermore, the LPE-polyflavonoids regulated the TBARS, GSH, CAT, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and AFP levels in the pancreatic and hepatic tissues, suggesting their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, the pancreatic and hepatic GLUT4 and GLUT2 were noticeably increased in addition to the pancreatic p-AKT in the rats administered with the LPE-polyflavonoids compared to the other diabetic rats. Remarkably, the administration of LPE-polyflavonoids upregulated the expression of the pancreatic and hepatic PI3K, AMPK, and FOXO1 genes, emphasizing the efficiency of the LPE in orchestrating all the signaling pathways necessitated to reduce the diabetes mellitus. Notably, the histopathological examinations of the pancreatic and hepatic tissues corroborated the biochemical results. Altogether, our findings accentuated the potential therapeutic role of LPE-polyflavonoids in controlling diabetes mellitus.