bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment Prognosis of Restored Teeth with Crown Lengthening vs. Deep Margin Elevation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mugri Maryam H. , Sayed Mohammed E. , Nedumgottil Binoy Mathews , Bhandi Shilpa , Raj A. Thirumal , Testarelli Luca , Khurshid Zohaib , Jain Saurabh , Patil Shankargouda
Published: November 2021

Crown lengthening surgery and deep margin elevation are two distinct approaches used to manage decayed teeth. This systematic review examined the survival rate of badly decayed teeth when restored using the crown lengthening technique and compared it to the deep margin elevation technique. The search was conducted during July 2020 and then again updated at the end of July 2021, and no restriction concerning publication status and time was applied during the search. Cochrane Database, EBSCO, Scopus, and Medline databases were searched electronically for relevant literature. Google Scholar was used as a secondary source. Predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to select the relevant articles. PRISMA guidelines were followed. The focused PICO question was: ‘Does the crown lengthening technique (I) provide a better survival rate (O) than deep margin elevation technique (C) following the restoration of badly decayed teeth (P).’ A total of six articles were included after performing screening based on the eligibility criteria. Four studies focused on crown lengthening while two focused on deep margin elevation technique. A majority of the studies showed a high risk of bias owing to methodological insufficiencies. Crown lengthening (CL) treated cases showed a change in the free gingival margin at six months post-surgery. A tissue rebound was seen that was correlated to the periodontal biotype. Teeth treated with the deep margin elevation (DME) technique showed high survivability. There is a lack of high-quality trials examining surgical comparisons between CL and DME with long-term follow-up. Patient- and dentist-reported outcomes have not been given adequate consideration in the literature. Based on the limited evidence, it can be concluded that for restorative purposes, crown lengthening surgery can be successful in long-term retention of restored teeth. However, the deep margin elevation technique has a better survival ratio. Future well-designed and executed research will have an effect on the evidence and level of certainty for the best approach to treating severely decayed teeth.
Titanium-Enriched Slag Prepared by Atmospheric Hydrochloric Acid Leaching of Mechanically Activated Vanadium Titanomagnetite Concentrates
Authors: Wu En-Hui , Lin Yin-He , Liu Jun , Wang Zhe , Liu Jin-Chuan , Yin Guo-Liang , Li Jing-Wei , Cheng Xiang-Kui , Jia Yu-Long
Published: November 2021

The titanium-enriched slag was obtained via atmospheric hydrochloric acid leaching of mechanically activated vanadium titanomagnetite concentrates (VTMCs). Under the influence of mechanical activation, specific physicochemical changes were observed via X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, and granulometric laser diffraction analysis. Experimental findings revealed that the mechanical activation of VTMCs resulted in a decrease in the median volume particle diameter (d50) and an increase in the specific surface area (SA) with an increased milling time. The results of the leaching experiment revealed that the mechanical activation treatment favors the extraction of iron (Fe) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) from the VTMCs. The Fe and TiO2 extractions from the mechanically activated sample after 10 h compared with the unactivated sample were increased by 12.82% and 4.73%, respectively. The presence of the ilmenite phase in the titanium-enriched slag was confirmed by X-ray diffractometry and EDS patterns, and the content of the TiO2 in the enriched slag can get as high as 43.75%.
Microstructural Analysis of Novel Preceramic Paper-Derived SiCf/SiC Composites
Authors: Li Ke , Kashkarov Egor , Ma Hailiang , Fan Ping , Zhang Qiaoli , Zhang Peng , Zhang Jilong , Wu Zhaohui , Wahl Larissa , Laptev Roman , Lider Andrey , Travitzky Nahum , Yuan Daqing
Published: November 2021

This paper presents the results of microstructural analysis of novel preceramic paper-derived SiCf/SiC composites fabricated by spark plasma sintering. The sintering temperature and pressure were 2100/2200 °C and 60/100 MPa, respectively. The content of fibers in the composites was approx. 10 wt %. The SiCf/SiC composites were analyzed by positron annihilation methods, X-ray diffraction technology, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. Longer sintering time causes the proportion of the 6H-SiC composition to increase to ~80%. The increase in sintering temperature from 2100 °C to 2200 °C leads to partial transition of 4H-SiC to 6H-SiC during the sintering process, and the long-life component of positrons indicates the formation of Si vacancies. The Raman characteristic peaks of turbostratic graphite appear in the Raman spectrum of SiC fibers, this is caused by the diffusion of carbon from the surface of the SiC fiber and the preceramic paper during the high-temperature sintering process.
Treatment of Soil Contaminated by Mining Activities to Prevent Contamination by Encapsulation in Ceramic Construction Materials
Authors: Terrones-Saeta Juan María , Suárez-Macías Jorge , Bernardo-Sánchez Antonio , Álvarez de Prado Laura , Menéndez Fernández Marta , Corpas-Iglesias Francisco Antonio
Published: November 2021

Mining is an essential activity for obtaining materials necessary for the well-being and development of society. However, this activity produces important environmental impacts that must be controlled. More specifically, there are different soils near new or abandoned mining productions that have been contaminated with potentially toxic elements, and currently represent an important environmental problem. In this research, a contaminated soil from the mining district of Linares was studied for its use as a raw material for the conforming of ceramic materials, bricks, dedicated to construction. Firstly, the contaminated soil was chemically and physically characterized in order to evaluate its suitability. Subsequently, different families of samples were conformed with different percentages of clay and contaminated soil. Finally, the conformed ceramics were physically and mechanically characterized to examine the variation produced in the ceramic material by the incorporation of the contaminated soil. In addition, in this research, leachate tests were performed according to the TCLP method determining whether encapsulation of potentially toxic elements in the soil occurs. The results showed that all families of ceramic materials have acceptable physical properties, with a soil percentage of less than 80% being acceptable to obtain adequate mechanical properties and a maximum of 70% of contaminated soil to obtain acceptable leachate according to EPA regulations. Therefore, the maximum percentage of contaminated soil that can be incorporated into the ceramic material is 70% in order to comply with all standards. Consequently, this research not only avoids the contamination that contaminated soil can produce, but also valorizes this element as a raw material for new materials, avoiding the extraction of clay and reducing the environmental impact.
Impact of Temperature on Low-Cycle Fatigue Characteristics of the HR6W Alloy
Authors: Junak Grzegorz , Marek Anżelina , Paduchowicz Michał
Published: November 2021

This paper presents the results of tests conducted on the HR6W (23Cr-45Ni-6W-Nb-Ti-B) alloy under low-cycle fatigue at room temperature and at 650 °C. Fatigue tests were carried out at constant values of the total strain ranges. The alloy under low-cycle fatigue showed cyclic strengthening both at room temperature and at 650 °C. The degree of HR6W strengthening described by coefficient n’ was higher at higher temperatures. At the same time, its fatigue life Nf at room temperature was, depending on the range of total strain adopted in the tests, several times higher than observed at 650 °C.
Flexural Behavior of Two-Span Continuous CFRP RC Beams
Authors: Pang Miao , Shi Sensen , Hu Han , Lou Tiejiong
Published: November 2021

This paper investigates the feasibility of replacing steel bars with carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) bars in continuous reinforced concrete (RC) beams. A numerical model is introduced. Model predictions are compared with the experimental results that are available in the literature. A comprehensive numerical investigation is then performed on two-span CFRP/steel RC beams with ρb2 = 0.61–3.03% and ρb1/ρb2 = 1.5, where ρb1 and ρb2 are tensile bar ratios (ratios of tensile bar area to effective cross-sectional area of beams) over positive and negative moment regions, respectively. The study shows that replacing steel bars with CFRP bars greatly improves the crack mode at a low bar ratio. The ultimate load of CFRP RC beams is 89% higher at ρb2 = 0.61% but 7.2% lower at ρb2 = 3.03% than that of steel RC beams. In addition, CFRP RC beams exhibit around 13% greater ultimate deflection compared to steel RC beams. The difference of moment redistribution between CFRP and steel RC beams diminishes as ρb2 increases. ACI 318-19 appears to be conservative, and it leads to more accurate predictions of moment redistribution in CFRP RC beams than that in steel RC beams.
Finite Element Simulation Tests of the Structural Strength of the Molding Module for Burger Production from Vegetable Outgrades
Authors: Ignasiak Łukasz , Bieńczak Agata , Woźniak Paweł , Kozłowicz Katarzyna , Różyło Renata , Szczepaniak Jan
Published: November 2021

The aim of the study was to assess the stresses of the structural materials of the forming module in the process of burger production from vegetable outgrades. The simulation research object was a virtual CAD 3D model of a device used for forming multi-vegetable products. Strength tests were performed on the computational model by applying the finite element method. The following were analyzed in the model: the forces exerted by the mixture of vegetables on the side walls of the tank and the dosing unit; the force from the servomotor resulting from the horizontal thickening of the vegetable mixture; the force from the servomotor resulting from the vertical mixing of the vegetable mixture; the force from the die assembly actuator; the force caused by punching the actuator from the die assembly. For evaluating the structure in the scope of the study, it was assumed that safely reduced stresses should be taken into account, with a safety factor equal to 1.1 of the yield strength of the parent material from which the structure was made (steel 1.4301 (304) with a yield stress Re0.2 of 230 MPa). For welds, safely reduced stresses should be taken into account, with a safety factor equal to 1.4 of the yield strength (Re0.2 of 230 MPa). Strength analyses confirmed that the permissible stress levels were not exceeded in the molding module.
Annealing Effect on the Structure and Optical Properties of CBD-ZnS Thin Films for Windscreen Coating
Authors: Mohammed Raghad Y.
Published: November 2021

Zinc sulfide (ZnS) thin films were prepared and synthesized by the chemical bath deposition (CBD) technique on microscopic glass substrates using stoichiometric amounts of the precursor materials (ZnSO4·7H2O, NH4OH, and CS(NH2)2). Structural, morphological, compositional, and optical characterization of the films were studied. The obtained thin films were found to exhibit polycrystalline possessions. The effect of annealing temperature on the crystallographic structure and optical bandgap of ZnS thin films were both examined. The grain size and unit cell volume were both found to be increased. In addition, the strain, dislocation density, and the number of crystallites were found to be decreased with annealing temperature at 300 °C. However, the annealed sample was perceived to have more Zn content than S. The optical characterization reveals that the transmittance was around 76% of the as-deposited thin film and had been decreased to ~50% with the increasing of the annealing temperature. At the same time, the bandgap energy of the as-deposited film was 3.98 eV and was found to be decreased to 3.93 eV after annealing.
Impact of Elevated Temperatures on Strength Properties and Microstructure of Calcium Sulfoaluminate Paste
Authors: Sodol Konrad A. , Kaczmarek Łukasz , Szer Jacek , Miszczak Sebastian , Stegliński Mariusz
Published: November 2021

This article is motivated by civil fire safety. Fire-prevention engineering demands a wide range of information about building materials including alternative cements, for instance CSA-cement. Because of exposure of the cement-base material to a high temperature, its strength properties deteriorate due to dehydration connected with phase and microstructure changes. Previous research indicated that the main endothermic reaction of CSA-based composite, dehydration of ettringite, might be used as a cooling system for a metal structure during fire-load. This article examines visual assessment, microstructure, density, as well as flexural and compressive strength parameters of CSA-based composite after isothermal heating at temperatures from 23 °C to 800 °C. The results of SEM/EDS investigations showed that the calcium sulfoaluminate paste may start partially re-sintering above 600 °C. Mechanical tests revealed significant reduction of strength parameters but residual compressive strength was maintained in the whole temperature range e.g., 8 MPa at 800 °C. Additionally, visual assessment of the specimens indicated that it might be possible to predict the material temperature heating based on the specific surface color. These findings add to the evidence of general knowledge about CSA hydrates.
Multi-Frequency Weak Signal Decomposition and Reconstruction of Rolling Bearing Based on Adaptive Cascaded Stochastic Resonance
Authors: Xu Di , Ge Jianghua , Wang Yaping , Shao Junpeng
Published: November 2021

In engineering practice, the bearing fault signal is composed of a series of complex multi-component signals containing multiple fault characteristics information. In the early stage of fault sprouting and evolution, the fault features are easily disturbed by noise and irrelevant signals, eliminating the fault signals in the strong background noise. To overcome the influence of noise on the signal, this study proposes multi-frequency weak signal decomposition and reconstruction of rolling bearing based on adaptive cascaded stochastic resonance. First, the original signal is passed through the Hilbert transform to obtain the envelope signal. The envelope signal is high-pass filtered to eliminate the interference of low-frequency components on the response of the stochastic resonance system. Secondly, cascaded stochastic resonance system parameters are adaptively optimized by the quantum particle swarm algorithm (QPSO). The high-pass filtered signal input to the adaptive cascaded stochastic resonance system (ACSRS) can further enhance the weak fault characteristics, allowing the gradual transfer of high-frequency noise energy to the low-frequency fault characteristic components. Finally, the signal is decomposed using the variational mode decomposition (VMD) method to jointly determine the location of the fault characteristic frequencies in the intrinsic mode functions (IMF) component by the energy loss coefficient and correlation coefficient to achieve the reconstruction of multi-frequency weak signals. Through simulation and experimental validation, the effectiveness and superiority of the method for multi-frequency weak signal detection in bearings are verified. The results show that the method not only achieves the adaptive optimization of the stochastic resonance system parameters gradually removing the high-frequency noise in the signal and improving the energy of the low-frequency signal but also reduces the number of decomposition layers of the VMD, enhances the fault characteristic information in the weak signal, and effectively identifies the early weak fault characteristics of rolling bearings.
Development from Alloys to Nanocomposite for an Enhanced Mechanical and Ignition Response in Magnesium
Authors: Tun Khin Sandar , Brendan Tan Yan Shen , Tekumalla Sravya , Gupta Manoj
Published: November 2021

The current study reports on the evolution of microstructure, variations in compressive properties and the ignition resistance of Mg through compositional variation, using alloying elements and nanoreinforcement. The alloys were designed with the use of a singular alloying element, Ca, and a binary alloying element, Ca+Sc, to develop Mg1Ca (wt.%) and Mg1Ca1Sc (wt.%) alloys. B4C nanoparticles were addedas the reinforcement phase in the Mg1Ca1Sc alloy to create the Mg1Ca1Sc/1.5B4C (wt.%) nanocomposite. The most effective compressive properties and level of ignition resistance was displayed by the developed composite. The grain sizes were significantly reduced in the Mg alloys (81%) and the composite (92%), compared with that of the Mg. Overall, the microstructural features (i.e., grain refinement, the formation of favorable intermetallic compounds, and hard reinforcement particles with an adequate distribution pattern) enhanced both the compressive strength and strain of the alloys and the composite. The ignition resistance was progressively increased from the alloys to the nanocomposite, and a peak ignition temperature of 752 °C was achieved in the composite. When compared with the ignition resistant of Elektron 21 (E21) alloy, which met the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements, the Mg1Ca1Sc/1.5B4C nanocomposite showed a higher specific yield strength and better ignition resistance, asserting it as a potential candidate material for lightweight engineering applications, including aerospace and defense sectors.
Influence of the Small Sc and Zr Additions on the As-Cast Microstructure of Al–Mg–Si Alloys with Excess Silicon
Authors: Aryshenskii Evgenii , Lapshov Maksim , Hirsch Jurgen , Konovalov Sergey , Bazhenov Viacheslav , Drits Alexander , Zaitsev Denis
Published: November 2021

This research is devoted to the study effects of complex alloying of Al-0.3 wt. % Mg-1 wt. % Si and Al-0.5 wt. % Mg-1.3 wt. % Si alloys by small additions of Sc and Zr on the microstructure in the as-cast condition. The effect of small additions of these elements on the microhardness, electrical conductivity, grain size and phase composition of the indicated alloy systems was studied. The methods of optical and electron microscopy were used for the study. Moreover, the phase composition was calculated using the Thermo-Calc software package. The study showed a strong effect of the chemical composition of investigated alloys on the size of the grains, which, with a certain combination of additives, can decrease several times. Grain refinement occurs both due to supercooling and formation of primary Al3Sc particles in the liquid phase. Alloys based on Al-0.5 wt. % Mg-1.3 wt. % Si are more prone to the formation of this phase since a lower concentration of Sc is required for it to occur. In addition, more silicon interacts with other elements. At the same time, Al-0.3 wt. % Mg-1 wt. % Si requires lower temperature for complete dissolution of Mg2Si, which can contribute to more efficient heat treatment, which includes reducing the number of steps. TEM data show that during ingot cooling (AlSi)3ScZr dispersoid precipitates. This dispersoid could precipitate as coherent and semi-coherent particles with L12 structure as well as needle-shaped particles. The precipitation of coherent and semi-coherent particles during cooling of the ingot indicates that they can be obtained during subsequent multistage heat treatment. In addition, in the Al0.5Mg1.3Si0.3Sc alloy, metastable β″ (Mg5Si6) are precipitated.
The Microstructure in an Al–Ti Alloy Melt: The Wulff Cluster Model from a Partial Structure Factor
Authors: Lin Xiaohang , Song Lin , Shao Anchen , Hua Minghao , Li Hui , Tian Xuelei
Published: November 2021

In the present work, the Wulff cluster model—which has been proven to successfully describe pure metals, homogeneous alloys, and eutectic alloys—has been extended to complex binary Al80Ti20 alloys, containing intermetallic compounds. In our model, the most probable structure in metallic melts should have the shape determined by Wulff construction within the crystal structure inside, and the cluster’s size could be measured by pair distribution function. For Al80Ti20 binary alloy, three different types of clusters (Al cluster, Al3Ti cluster, and Ti cluster) were proposed. Their contributions in XRD results are investigated by a comparison with the partial XRD pattern. Ti–Ti and Al–Ti partial structural factors are completely contributed by a pure Ti cluster and an Al3Ti cluster, respectively. Al–Al partial structural factor is contributed not only by a pure Al cluster but is also related to part of the Al3Ti cluster. The simulated XRD curve shows a good agreement with the experimental partial I(θ), including the peak position, width, and relative intensity.
Optimization of Conditions for Processing of Lead–Zinc Ores Enrichment Tailings of East Kazakhstan
Authors: Seksenova Nazym , Bykov Rudolf , Mamyachenkov Sergey , Daumova Gulzhan , Kozhakanova Malika
Published: November 2021

This article presents the results of studies of a low-waste technology for processing enrichment tailings using a combined enrichment–hydrometallurgical method. After washing the enrichment tailings from harmful products and reducing their size, multi-stage flotation of the crushed material of the enrichment tailings was carried out. The use of a new reagent in the flotation process was studied in order to ensure the maximum recovery of the main valuable components from the enrichment tailings. A new collector of Aero 7249 (Shenyang Florrea Chemicals Co., Ltd., Shenyang, China) type was used for the flotation. The recovery of valuable components was as follows: Cu, 6.78%; Zn, 91.69%; Pb, 80.81%; Au, 95.90%; Ag, 82.50%; Fe, 78.78%. Tailings of the flotation were re-enriched using a fatty acid collector (sodium oleate). Additional (reverse) flotation resulted in obtaining a product corresponding to the composition of building sand in terms of the content of valuable components of the waste rock. The studies of the conditions for processing the enrichment tailings of lead–zinc ore indicate the possibility of its optimization in order to maximize the involvement of waste in the production.
Fatty Acid Metabolism Reprogramming in Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Xu Huan , Chen Yanbo , Gu Meng , Liu Chong , Chen Qi , Zhan Ming , Wang Zhong
Published: November 2021

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a carcinoma in which fatty acids are abundant. Fatty acid metabolism is rewired during PCa development. Although PCa can be treated with hormone therapy, after prolonged treatment, castration-resistant prostate cancer can develop and can lead to increased mortality. Changes to fatty acid metabolism occur systemically and locally in prostate cancer patients, and understanding these changes may lead to individualized treatments, especially in advanced, castration-resistant prostate cancers. The fatty acid metabolic changes are not merely reflective of oncogenic activity, but in many cases, these represent a critical factor in cancer initiation and development. In this review, we analyzed the literature regarding systemic changes to fatty acid metabolism in PCa patients and how these changes relate to obesity, diet, circulating metabolites, and peri-prostatic adipose tissue. We also analyzed cellular fatty acid metabolism in prostate cancer, including fatty acid uptake, de novo lipogenesis, fatty acid elongation, and oxidation. This review broadens our view of fatty acid switches in PCa and presents potential candidates for PCa treatment and diagnosis.
Additive Manufacturing of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS)
Authors: De Pasquale Giorgio
Published: November 2021

Recently, additive manufacturing (AM) processes applied to the micrometer range are subjected to intense development motivated by the influence of the consolidated methods for the macroscale and by the attraction for digital design and freeform fabrication. The integration of AM with the other steps of conventional micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) fabrication processes is still in progress and, furthermore, the development of dedicated design methods for this field is under development. The large variety of AM processes and materials is leading to an abundance of documentation about process attempts, setup details, and case studies. However, the fast and multi-technological development of AM methods for microstructures will require organized analysis of the specific and comparative advantages, constraints, and limitations of the processes. The goal of this paper is to provide an up-to-date overall view on the AM processes at the microscale and also to organize and disambiguate the related performances, capabilities, and resolutions.
Overview of the Semiconductor Photocathode Research in China
Authors: Xie Huamu
Published: November 2021

With the growing demand from scientific projects such as the X-ray free electron laser (XFEL), ultrafast electron diffraction/microscopy (UED/UEM) and electron ion collider (EIC), the semiconductor photocathode, which is a key technique for a high brightness electron source, has been widely studied in China. Several fabrication systems have been designed and constructed in different institutes and the vacuum of most systems is in the low 10−8 Pa level to grow a high QE and long lifetime photocathode. The QE, dark lifetime/bunch lifetime, spectral response and QE map of photocathodes with different kinds of materials, such as bialkali (K2CsSb, K2NaSb, etc.), Cs2Te and GaAs, have been investigated. These photocathodes will be used to deliver electron beams in a high voltage DC gun, a normal conducting RF gun, and an SRF gun. The emission physics of the semiconductor photocathode and intrinsic emittance reduction are also studied.
Biochemical Characterization of Recombinant Isocitrate Dehydrogenase and Its Putative Role in the Physiology of an Acidophilic Micrarchaeon
Authors: Winkler Dennis , Gfrerer Sabrina , Gescher Johannes
Published: November 2021

Despite several discoveries in recent years, the physiology of acidophilic Micrarchaeota, such as “Candidatus Micrarchaeum harzensis A_DKE”, remains largely enigmatic, as they highly express numerous genes encoding hypothetical proteins. Due to a lacking genetic system, it is difficult to elucidate the biological function of the corresponding proteins and heterologous expression is required. In order to prove the viability of this approach, A_DKE’s isocitrate dehydrogenase (MhIDH) was recombinantly produced in Escherichia coli and purified to electrophoretic homogeneity for biochemical characterization. MhIDH showed optimal activity around pH 8 and appeared to be specific for NADP+ yet promiscuous regarding divalent cations as cofactors. Kinetic studies showed KM-values of 53.03 ± 5.63 µM and 1.94 ± 0.12 mM and kcat-values of 38.48 ± 1.62 and 43.99 ± 1.46 s−1 resulting in kcat/KM-values of 725 ± 107.62 and 22.69 ± 2.15 mM−1 s−1 for DL-isocitrate and NADP+, respectively. MhIDH’s exceptionally low affinity for NADP+, potentially limiting its reaction rate, can likely be attributed to the presence of a proline residue in the NADP+ binding pocket, which might cause a decrease in hydrogen bonding of the cofactor and a distortion of local secondary structure.
Based on Multi-Activity Integrated Strategy to Screening, Characterization and Quantification of Bioactive Compounds from Red Wine
Authors: Gao Yuye , Yu Xie-an , Wang Bing , Yin Guo , Wang Jue , Wang Tiejie , Bi Kaishun
Published: November 2021

According to French Paradox, red wine was famous for the potential effects on coronary heart disease (CHD), but the specific compounds against CHD were unclear. Therefore, screening and characterization of bioactive compounds from red wine was extremely necessary. In this paper, the multi-activity integrated strategy was developed and validated to screen, identify and quantify active compounds from red wine by using ultra high performance liquid chromatography-fraction collector (UHPLC-FC), ultra fast liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight/mass spectrometry (UFLC-Q-TOF/MS) and bioactive analysis. UHPLC-FC was employed to separate and collect the components from red wine, which was further identified by UFLC-Q-TOF/MS to acquire their structural information. Furthermore, the active fractions were tested for antioxidant activity, inhibitory activity against thrombin and lipase activities in vitro by the activity screening kit. As the results, there were 37 fractions had antioxidant activity, 22 fractions had thrombin inhibitory activity and 28 fractions had lipase inhibitory activity. Finally, 77 active components from red wine were screened and 12 ingredients out of them were selected for quantification based on the integration of multi-activity. Collectively, the multi-activity integrated strategy was helpful for the rapid and effective discovery of bioactive components, which provided reference for exploring the health care function of food.
Ionization of Volatile Organics and Nonvolatile Biomolecules Directly from a Titanium Slab for Mass Spectrometric Analysis
Authors: Huang De-Yi , Wang Meng-Jiy , Wu Jih-Jen , Chen Yu-Chie
Published: November 2021

Atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI)-mass spectrometry (MS) and electrospray ionization (ESI)-MS can cover the analysis of analytes from low to high polarities. Thus, an ion source that possesses these two ionization functions is useful. Atmospheric surface-assisted ionization (ASAI), which can be used to ionize polar and nonpolar analytes in vapor, liquid, and solid forms, was demonstrated in this study. The ionization of analytes through APCI or ESI was induced from the surface of a metal substrate such as a titanium slab. ASAI is a contactless approach operated at atmospheric pressure. No electric contacts nor any voltages were required to be applied on the metal substrate during ionization. When placing samples with high vapor pressure in condensed phase underneath a titanium slab close to the inlet of the mass spectrometer, analytes can be readily ionized and detected by the mass spectrometer. Furthermore, a sample droplet (~2 μL) containing high-polarity analytes, including polar organics and biomolecules, was ionized using the titanium slab. One titanium slab is sufficient to induce the ionization of analytes occurring in front of a mass spectrometer applied with a high voltage. Moreover, this ionization method can be used to detect high volatile or polar analytes through APCI-like or ESI-like processes, respectively.
Understanding the Mechanism of Action of NAI-112, a Lanthipeptide with Potent Antinociceptive Activity
Authors: Tocchetti Arianna , Iorio Marianna , Hamid Zeeshan , Armirotti Andrea , Reggiani Angelo , Donadio Stefano
Published: November 2021

NAI-112, a glycosylated, labionine-containing lanthipeptide with weak antibacterial activity, has demonstrated analgesic activity in relevant mouse models of nociceptive and neuropathic pain. However, the mechanism(s) through which NAI-112 exerts its analgesic and antibacterial activities is not known. In this study, we analyzed changes in the spinal cord lipidome resulting from treatment with NAI-112 of naive and in-pain mice. Notably, NAI-112 led to an increase in phosphatidic acid levels in both no-pain and pain models and to a decrease in lysophosphatidic acid levels in the pain model only. We also showed that NAI-112 can form complexes with dipalmitoyl-phosphatidic acid and that Staphylococcus aureus can become resistant to NAI-112 through serial passages at sub-inhibitory concentrations of the compound. The resulting resistant mutants were phenotypically and genotypically related to vancomycin-insensitive S. aureus strains, suggesting that NAI-112 binds to the peptidoglycan intermediate lipid II. Altogether, our results suggest that NAI-112 binds to phosphate-containing lipids and blocks pain sensation by decreasing levels of lysophosphatidic acid in the TRPV1 pathway.
Spatial Period of Laser-Induced Surface Nanoripples on PET Determines Escherichia coli Repellence
Authors: Richter Anja M. , Buchberger Gerda , Stifter David , Duchoslav Jiri , Hertwig Andreas , Bonse Jörn , Heitz Johannes , Schwibbert Karin
Published: November 2021

Bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation on surfaces are associated with persistent microbial contamination, biofouling, and the emergence of resistance, thus, calling for new strategies to impede bacterial surface colonization. Using ns-UV laser treatment (wavelength 248 nm and a pulse duration of 20 ns), laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) featuring different sub-micrometric periods ranging from ~210 to ~610 nm were processed on commercial poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) foils. Bacterial adhesion tests revealed that these nanorippled surfaces exhibit a repellence for E. coli that decisively depends on the spatial periods of the LIPSS with the strongest reduction (~91%) in cell adhesion observed for LIPSS periods of 214 nm. Although chemical and structural analyses indicated a moderate laser-induced surface oxidation, a significant influence on the bacterial adhesion was ruled out. Scanning electron microscopy and additional biofilm studies using a pili-deficient E. coli TG1 strain revealed the role of extracellular appendages in the bacterial repellence observed here.
Deep-Ultraviolet (DUV)-Induced Doping in Single Channel Graphene for Pn-Junction
Authors: Ali Asif , Kim So-Young , Hussain Muhammad , Jaffery Syed Hassan Abbas , Dastgeer Ghulam , Hussain Sajjad , Anh Bach Thi Phuong , Eom Jonghwa , Lee Byoung Hun , Jung Jongwan
Published: November 2021

The electronic properties of single-layer, CVD-grown graphene were modulated by deep ultraviolet (DUV) light irradiation in different radiation environments. The graphene field-effect transistors (GFETs), exposed to DUV in air and pure O2, exhibited p-type doping behavior, whereas those exposed in vacuum and pure N2 gas showed n-type doping. The degree of doping increased with DUV exposure time. However, n-type doping by DUV in vacuum reached saturation after 60 min of DUV irradiation. The p-type doping by DUV in air was observed to be quite stable over a long period in a laboratory environment and at higher temperatures, with little change in charge carrier mobility. The p-doping in pure O2 showed ~15% de-doping over 4 months. The n-type doping in pure N2 exhibited a high doping effect but was highly unstable over time in a laboratory environment, with very marked de-doping towards a pristine condition. A lateral pn-junction of graphene was successfully implemented by controlling the radiation environment of the DUV. First, graphene was doped to n-type by DUV in vacuum. Then the n-type graphene was converted to p-type by exposure again to DUV in air. The n-type region of the pn-junction was protected from DUV by a thick double-coated PMMA layer. The photocurrent response as a function of Vg was investigated to study possible applications in optoelectronics.
An Organic/Inorganic Nanomaterial and Nanocrystal Quantum Dots-Based Multi-Level Resistive Memory Device
Authors: Kim Sae-Wan , Kwon JinBeom , Lee Jae-Sung , Kang Byoung-Ho , Lee Sang-Won , Jung Dong Geon , Lee Jun-Yeop , Han Maeum , Kim Ok-Geun , Saianand Gopalan , Jung Daewoong
Published: November 2021

A cadmium selenide/zinc sulfide (CdSe/ZnS) quantum dot (QD)-based multi-level memory device with the structure [ITO/PEDOT:PSS/QDs/ZnO/Al:Al2O3/QDs/Al] was fabricated via a spin-coating method used to deposit thin films. Two layers of QD thin films present in the device act as charge storage layers to form three distinct states. Zinc oxide (ZnO) and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) were added to prevent leakage. ZnO NPs provide orthogonality between the two QD layers, and a poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythio-phene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) thin film was formed for effective hole injection from the electrodes. The core/shell structure of the QDs provides the quantum well, which causes the trapping of injected charges. The resistance changes according to the charging and discharging of the QDs’ trap site and, as a result, the current through the device also changes. There are two quantum wells, two current changes, and three stable states. The role of each thin film was confirmed through I–V curve analysis and the fabrication conditions of each thin film were optimized. The synthesized QDs and ZnO nanoparticles were evaluated via X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and absorbance and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The measured write voltages of the fabricated device were at 1.8 and 2.4 V, and the erase voltages were −4.05 and −4.6 V. The on/off ratio at 0.5 V was 2.2 × 103. The proposed memory device showed retention characteristics of ≥100 h and maintained the initial write/erase voltage even after 200 iterative operations.
Catatonia: Clinical Overview of the Diagnosis, Treatment, and Clinical Challenges
Authors: Edinoff Amber N. , Kaufman Sarah E. , Hollier Janice W. , Virgen Celina G. , Karam Christian A. , Malone Garett W. , Cornett Elyse M. , Kaye Adam M. , Kaye Alan D.
Published: November 2021

Catatonia is a syndrome that has been associated with several mental illness disorders but that has also presented as a result of other medical conditions. Schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders such as mania and depression are known to be associated with catatonia; however, several case reports have been published of certain medical conditions inducing catatonia, including hyponatremia, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, and liver transplantation. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome and anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis are also prominent causes of catatonia. Patients taking benzodiazepines or clozapine are also at risk of developing catatonia following the withdrawal of these medications—it is speculated that the prolonged use of these medications increases gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activity and that discontinuation may increase excitatory neurotransmission, leading to catatonia. The treatment of catatonia often involves the use of benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam, that can be used in combination therapy with antipsychotics. Definitive treatment may be found with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Aberrant neuronal activity in different motor pathways, defective neurotransmitter regulation, and impaired oligodendrocyte function have all been proposed as the pathophysiology behind catatonia. There are many clinical challenges that come with catatonia and, as early treatment is associated with better outcomes, it becomes imperative to understand these challenges. The purpose of this manuscript is to provide an overview of these challenges and to look at clinical studies regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of as well as the complications and risk factors associated with catatonia.
High Iodine Urinary Concentration Is Associated with High TSH Levels but Not with Nutrition Status in Schoolchildren of Northeastern Mexico
Authors: Gonzalez-Nunez Aidy , García-Solís Pablo , Ramirez-Garcia Silvia G. , Flores-Ramirez German , Vela-Amieva Marcela , Lara-Díaz Victor J. , Rojas-Martínez Augusto
Published: November 2021

According to the Iodine Global Network, Mexico is considered a country with adequate national iodine intake (297 mg/L), but some regions have not been studied. We aimed to evaluate urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and its association with thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and the nutritional status in 307 children (aged 5 to 11 years) from three elementary schools of Monterrey, northern Mexico. UIC in spot urine samples and capillary TSH levels were measured to assess thyroid function, in addition to weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC). We found a median UIC of 442 mg/L and a significant association between UIC and TSH levels by logistic regression when data were adjusted for (1) age and sex; (2) age, sex, and WC; and (3) age, sex, and weight status. UIC values were higher in 7-year-old children compared to 11-year-old children. High prevalences of overweight/obesity (41%) and WC >90 pctl (22%) were observed. This study identified higher UIC levels in children than those previously reported in the country. The UIC showed a positive and significant correlation between TSH levels in the three models evaluated. More studies are needed to assess the causes and possible outcomes of high UIC levels.
Effects of Coffee Consumption on Insulin Resistance and Sensitivity: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Moon Su-Min , Joo Min-Jin , Lee Young-Seo , Kim Myeong-Gyu
Published: November 2021

Coffee is widely consumed worldwide and impacts glucose metabolism. After a previous meta-analysis that evaluated the effects of coffee consumption on insulin resistance and sensitivity, additional randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of coffee consumption on insulin resistance or sensitivity. We selected RCTs that evaluated the effects of coffee consumption for seven days or more on insulin sensitivity or resistance using surrogate indices (homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and Matsuda index). The fixed-effects or random-effects model was used according to heterogeneity. Four studies with 268 participants were analyzed in this meta-analysis. Coffee consumption significantly decreased HOMA-IR compared to control (mean difference (MD) = −0.13; 95% CI = −0.24–−0.03; p-value = 0.01). However, the significance was not maintained in the sensitivity analysis (MD = −0.04; 95% CI = −0.18–0.10; p-value = 0.55) after excluding data from the healthy, young, normal-weight group. Matsuda index was not significantly different between coffee and control groups (standardized mean difference (SMD) = −0.33; 95% CI = −0.70–0.03; p-value = 0.08). In conclusion, long-term coffee consumption has a nonsignificant effect on insulin resistance and sensitivity. More studies evaluating the effects of coffee consumption in the healthy, young, and normal-weight individuals are needed.
Distribution and Determinants of Vitamin D-Binding Protein, Total, “Non-Bioavailable”, Bioavailable, and Free 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentrations among Older Adults
Authors: Zhu Anna , Kuznia Sabine , Niedermaier Tobias , Holleczek Bernd , Schöttker Ben , Brenner Hermann
Published: November 2021

Background: serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) (“total 25 OH(D)”) is the most commonly used indicator of vitamin D status. However, 25(OH)D is mostly bound to the vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) or albumin in blood, and it has been suggested that the remaining bioavailable or free 25(OH)D may be more relevant for vitamin D associated health outcomes. We aimed to explore distributions and determinants of VDBP, total, bioavailable, complementary “non-bioavailable”, and free 25(OH)D in a large cohort of older adults in Germany. Methods: total 25(OH)D, VDBP, and albumin concentrations were measured in blood samples of 5899 men and women aged 50–75 years and used to calculate bioavailable (and complementary “non-bioavailable”) and free 25(OH)D concentrations. Linear regression models were used to evaluate associations of potential determinants of the various vitamin D biomarkers. Results: mean concentrations of VDBP, total, non-bioavailable, bioavailable, and free 25(OH)D were 323.6 µg/mL, 49.8 nmol/L, 43.4 nmol/L, 2.5 ng/mL, and 5.7 pg/mL, respectively. Seasonal variations were observed for all markers, with peak values in spring for VDBP and in summer for total, non-bioavailable, bioavailable, and free 25(OH)D. Consistent inverse associations were seen with age and body mass index for all markers, but divergent associations were seen with C-reactive protein. Strong variations by VDBP genotypes were seen for bioavailable and free 25(OH)D, and, in opposite direction for non-bioavailable 25(OH)D. Conclusion: commonalities and differences in determinants of various markers of vitamin D status were observed, which may help to enable a better understanding of their potential role for various vitamin D related health outcomes.
Frailty Is Associated with Oxidative Stress in Older Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Alabadi Blanca , Civera Miguel , De la Rosa Adrián , Martinez-Hervas Sergio , Gomez-Cabrera Mari Carmen , Real José T.
Published: November 2021

Aging has increased the prevalence of frailty, and type 2 diabetes (T2D) has also increased in prevalence. Diabetes and oxidative stress (OS) have been shown to be related to frailty. However, the exact mechanism by which it occurs is not fully known. Our aim was to analyze body composition in community-dwelling older diabetic people treated in our center and to evaluate the possible relation between OS, frailty, and body composition. We included 100 adults older than 65 years with T2D. We found that 15% were frail and 57% were prefrail. The patients included in the nonrobust group showed increased levels of OS. Our study shows that the presence of T2D in the geriatric population is associated with a high prevalence of frailty and high OS levels, conditions that cause greater morbidity and mortality and that highlight the importance of the diagnosis of frailty in this population.
Consumption of Non-Nutritive Sweetener, Acesulfame Potassium Exacerbates Atherosclerosis through Dysregulation of Lipid Metabolism in ApoE−/− Mice
Authors: Lin Cheng-Hsin , Li Hung-Yuan , Wang Shu-Huei , Chen Yue-Hwa , Chen Yang-Ching , Wu Hung-Tsung
Published: November 2021

Obesity is associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease, and non-nutritive sweetener, such as acesulfame potassium (AceK) has been used to combat obesity. However, the effects of AceK on cardiovascular disease are still unclear. In this study, high cholesterol diet (HCD)-fed ApoE−/− mice had dysregulated plasma lipid profile, and developed atherosclerosis, determined by atherosclerotic plaque in the aorta. Supplement of AceK in HCD worsened the dyslipidemia and increased atherosclerotic plaque, as compared with HCD-fed ApoE−/− mice. Since treatment of AceK in RAW264.7 macrophages showed no significant effects on inflammatory cytokine expressions, we then investigated the impacts of AceK on lipid metabolism. We found that AceK consumption enhanced hepatic lipogenesis and decreased β-oxidation in ApoE−/− mice. In addition, AceK directly increased lipogenesis and decreased β-oxidation in HepG2 cells. Taken together, a concurrent consumption of AceK exacerbated HCD-induced dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic lesion in ApoE−/− mice, and AceK might increase the risk of atherosclerosis under HCD.