bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can Dynamic Whole-Body FDG PET Imaging Differentiate between Malignant and Inflammatory Lesions?
Authors: Skawran Stephan , Messerli Michael , Kotasidis Fotis , Trinckauf Josephine , Weyermann Corina , Kudura Ken , Ferraro Daniela A. , Pitteloud Janique , Treyer Valerie , Maurer Alexander , Huellner Martin W. , Burger Irene A.
Published: August 2022

Background: Investigation of the clinical feasibility of dynamic whole-body (WB) [18F]FDG PET, including standardized uptake value (SUV), rate of irreversible uptake (Ki), and apparent distribution volume (Vd) in physiologic tissues, and comparison between inflammatory/infectious and cancer lesions. Methods: Twenty-four patients were prospectively included to undergo dynamic WB [18F]FDG PET/CT for clinically indicated re-/staging of oncological diseases. Parametric maps of Ki and Vd were generated using Patlak analysis alongside SUV images. Maximum parameter values (SUVmax, Kimax, and Vdmax) were measured in liver parenchyma and in malignant or inflammatory/infectious lesions. Lesion-to-background ratios (LBRs) were calculated by dividing the measurements by their respective mean in the liver tissue. Results: Seventy-seven clinical target lesions were identified, 60 malignant and 17 inflammatory/infectious. Kimax was significantly higher in cancer than in inflammatory/infections lesions (3.0 vs. 2.0, p = 0.002) while LBRs of SUVmax, Kimax, and Vdmax did not differ significantly between the etiologies: LBR (SUVmax) 3.3 vs. 2.9, p = 0.06; LBR (Kimax) 5.0 vs. 4.4, p = 0.05, LBR (Vdmax) 1.1 vs. 1.0, p = 0.18). LBR of inflammatory/infectious and cancer lesions was higher in Kimax than in SUVmax (4.5 vs. 3.2, p < 0.001). LBRs of Kimax and SUVmax showed a strong correlation (Spearman’s rho = 0.83, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Dynamic WB [18F]FDG PET/CT is feasible in a clinical setting. LBRs of Kimax were higher than SUVmax. Kimax was higher in malignant than in inflammatory/infectious lesions but demonstrated a large overlap between the etiologies.
Treatment of Classic Mid-Trimester Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM) with Oligo/Anhydramnion between 22 and 26 Weeks of Gestation by Means of Continuous Amnioinfusion: Protocol of a Randomized Multicentric Prospective Controlled TRIAL and Review of the Literature
Authors: Tchirikov Michael , Haiduk Christian , Tchirikov Miriam , Riemer Marcus , Bergner Michael , Li Weijing , Henschen Stephan , Entezami Michael , Wienke Andreas , Seliger Gregor
Published: August 2022

Background: The classic mid-trimester preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is defined as a rupture of the fetal membranes prior to 28 weeks of gestation (WG) with oligo/anhydramnion; it complicates approximately 0.4–0.7% of all pregnancies and is associated with very high neonatal mortality and morbidity. Antibiotics have limited success to prevent bacterial growth, chorioamnionitis and fetal inflammation. The repetitive amnioinfusion does not work because fluid is lost immediately after the intervention. The continuous amnioinfusion through the transabdominal port system or catheter in patients with classic PPROM shows promise by flushing out the bacteria and inflammatory components from the amniotic cavity, replacing amniotic fluid and thus prolonging the PPROM-to-delivery interval. Objective: This multicenter trial aims to test the effect of continuous amnioinfusion on the neonatal survival without the typical major morbidities, such as severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, cystic periventricular leukomalacia and necrotizing enterocolitis one year after the delivery. Study Design: We plan to conduct a randomized multicenter trial with a two-arm parallel design. Randomization will be between 22/0 and 26/0 SSW. The control group: PPROM patients between 20/0 and 26/0 WG who will be treated with antibiotics and corticosteroids (from 22/0 SSW) in accordance with the guidelines of German Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (standard PPROM therapy). In the interventional group, the standard PPROM therapy will be complemented with the Amnion Flush Method, with the amnioinfusion of Amnion Flush Solution through the intra-amnial catheter (up to 100 mL/h, 2400 mL/day). Subjects: The study will include 68 patients with classic PPROM between 20/0 and 26/0 WG. TRIAL-registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04696003. German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00024503, January 2021.
Supramolecular Functionalisation of B/N Co-Doped Carbon Nano-Onions for Novel Nanocarrier Systems
Authors: Mohan Hugh , Bincoletto Valeria , Arpicco Silvia , Giordani Silvia
Published: August 2022

Boron/nitrogen co-doped carbon nano-onions (BN-CNOs) are spherical nanoparticles that consist of multiple inter-nestled fullerene layers, giving them an onion-like internal structure. They have potential as nanocarriers due to their small size, aqueous dispersibility, and biocompatibility. The non-covalent attachment of a biocompatible polymer to BN-CNOs is a simple and effective method of creating a scaffold for a novel nanocarrier system as it allows for increased aqueous dispersibility whilst preventing the immune system from recognising the particle as a foreign object. The non-covalent approach also preserves the electronic and structural properties of the BN-CNOs. In this study, we attached a hyaluronic acid-phospholipid (HA-DMPE) conjugate polymer to the BN-CNO’s surface to improve its hydrophilicity and provide targetability toward HA-receptor overexpressing cancer cells. To this end, various ratios of HA-DMPE to BN-CNOs were investigated. The resulting supramolecular systems were characterised via UV-Vis absorption and FTIR spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential techniques. It was found that the HA-DMPE conjugate polymer was permanently wrapped around the BN-CNO nanoparticle surface. Moreover, the resulting BN-CNO/HA-DMPE supramolecular systems displayed enhanced aqueous solubility compared to unfunctionalised BN-CNOs, with excellent long-term stability observed in aqueous dispersions.
Hydrating Capabilities of the Biopolymers Produced by the Marine Thermophilic Bacillus horneckiae SBP3 as Evaluated by ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy
Authors: Caccamo Maria Teresa , Zammuto Vincenzo , Spanò Antonio , Gugliandolo Concetta , Magazù Salvatore
Published: August 2022

The surfactin-like lipopeptide (BS-SBP3) and the exopolysaccharide (EPS-SBP3) produced by the polyextremophilic Bacillus horneckiae SBP3 (DSM 103063) have been recently described as valuable biopolymers useful in biotechnological applications. To investigate the hydrating capabilities of BS-SBP3 and EPS-SBP3, here we evaluated (i) their wetting properties, measuring the contact angle; (ii) their moisture uptake abilities using the gravimetric method; and (iii) their hydrating states (from 0 to 160% w/w of water content) using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. BS-SBP3 reduced the water contact angle on a hydrophobic surface from 81.7° to 51.3°, whereas the contact angle in the presence of EPS-SBP3 was 72.9°, indicating that BS-SBP3 improved the wettability of the hydrophobic surface. In the moisture uptake tests, EPS-SBP3 absorbed more water than BS-SBP3, increasing its weight from 10 mg to 30.1 mg after 36 h of 100% humidity exposure. Spectral distance and cross-correlation analyses were used to evaluate the molecular changes of the two biopolymers during the hydration process. As the water concentration increased, BS-SBP3 spectra changed in intensity in the two contributions of the OH-stretching band named “closed” and “open” (3247 and 3336 cm−1, respectively). Differently, the spectra of EPS-SBP3 exhibited a broader peak (3257 cm−1), which shifted at higher water concentrations. As evaluated by the spectral distance and the wavelet cross-correlation analysis, the OH-stretching bands of the BS-SBP3 and EPS-SBP3 changed as a function of water content, with two different sigmoidal trends having the inflection points at 80% and 48%, respectively, indicating peculiar water-properties of each biopolymer. As wetting agents, these biopolymers might replace industrially manufactured additives in agriculture and the food and cosmetic industries.
First-Principles Study on the Stability, Site Preference, Electronic Structure and Magnetism of Alloyed Fe3B with Ni3P-Type Structure
Authors: Wei Xiang , Chen Zhiguo , Kong Lingnan , Wu Jiwen , Zhang Haichou
Published: August 2022

First-principles calculations were performed to investigate the site preference of alloying elements, and the effect of alloying elements on stability, electronic structure and magnetism of Ni3P-type Fe3B. The calculated energies suggested that all studied compounds are thermodynamically stable while it is relatively difficult to synthesize the (Fe2.875,Cu0.125)B, (Fe2.875,W0.125)B and (Fe2.875,Nb0.125)B. The (Fe2.875,W0.125)B is the most stable compound from the view of cohesive energy. Mn element prefers to occupy the Fe2 site, whereas the others are more likely to reside in the Fe1 site. It can be found from the electronic structures that the DOSs of both Fe3B and alloyed Fe3B are dominated by Fe-d states, and all the compounds mainly contain Fe-B covalent bond, Fe-Fe covalent bond and Fe-Fe metallic bond. Based on the magnetic moments (Ms) results, it can be known that the Fe3B, (Fe2.875,Mn0.125)B, (Fe2.875,Co0.125)B, (Fe2.875,Ni0.125)B and (Fe2.875,Cu0.125)B are ferromagnetic compounds, whereas the others are ferrimagnetic compounds. Only Mn and Co are able to enhance the magnetism of Fe3B. Moreover, Mn is the most favorable candidate for improving the magnetic properties of Fe3B among the alloying elements. These results can be used to guide the composition design and performance optimization of magnetic materials containing Fe3B with Ni3P-type structure.
Advances and Challenges of Self-Healing Elastomers: A Mini Review
Authors: Xu Jun , Zhu Lei , Nie Yongjia , Li Yuan , Wei Shicheng , Chen Xu , Zhao Wenpeng , Yan Shouke
Published: August 2022

In the last few decades, self-healing polymeric materials have been widely investigated because they can heal the damages spontaneously and thereby prolong their service lifetime. Many ingenious synthetic procedures have been developed for fabricating self-healing polymers with high performance. This mini review provides an impressive summary of the self-healing polymers with fast self-healing speed, which exhibits an irreplaceable role in many intriguing applications, such as flexible electronics. After a brief introduction to the development of self-healing polymers, we divide the development of self-healing polymers into five stages through the perspective of their research priorities at different periods. Subsequently, we elaborated the underlying healing mechanism of polymers, including the self-healing origins, the influencing factors, and direct evidence of healing at nanoscopic level. Following this, recent advance in realizing the fast self-healing speed of polymers through physical and chemical approaches is extensively overviewed. In particular, the methodology for balancing the mechanical strength and healing ability in fast self-healing elastomers is summarized. We hope that it could afford useful information for research people in promoting the further technical development of new strategies and technologies to prepare the high performance self-healing elastomers for advanced applications.
Valorisation of Recycled Cement Paste: Feasibility of a Short-Duration Carbonation Process
Authors: Silva André , Nogueira Rita , Bogas Alexandre , Abrantes João , Wawrzyńczak Dariusz , Ściubidło Aleksandra , Majchrzak-Kucęba Izabela
Published: August 2022

Cement paste powder (CPP) is a by-product of the recycling process of concrete with an elevated carbonation capability and potential to be recycled as a binding material in new concrete batches. The application of a carbonation treatment to CPP improves this potential even more, besides the evident gains in terms of CO2 net balance. However, the long duration usually adopted in this treatment, from 3 to 28 days, hampers the industrial viability of the process. We studied the feasibility of a short-duration carbonation process, with a duration of two hours, carrying out a comprehensive characterization of the material throughout the process. The test was performed on CPP with an average initial water content of 16.9%, exposed to a CO2 concentration of 80%. The results demonstrate two main carbonation rates: a rapid growth rate in the first 18 minutes of the process, involving all the calcium-bearing compounds in CPP, and a slow growth rate afterwards, where only C-S-H contributes to the carbonation reaction. During the 2 h carbonation process, the main CPP compounds, calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) and calcium hydroxide (CH), reached different carbonation degrees, 31% and 94%, with, however, close CO2 uptake values, 8% and 11%, respectively. Nevertheless, the total CO2 uptake for this process (≈19%) attained values not distant from the values usually obtained in a carbonation of 12 days or more (19–25%). Hence, these findings highlight the blocking role of C-S-H in the carbonation process, indicating that longer carbonation periods are only going to be useful if an effective carbonation of this compound is accomplished. In the present scenario, where CH is the main contributor to the reaction, the reduction in the process duration is feasible.
Online Support Vector Machine with a Single Pass for Streaming Data
Authors: Hu Lisha , Hu Chunyu , Huo Zheng , Jiang Xinlong , Wang Suzhen
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we focus on training a support vector machine (SVM) online with a single pass over streaming data.Traditional batch-mode SVMs require previously prepared training data; these models may be unsuitable for streaming data circumstances. Online SVMs are effective tools for solving this problem by receiving data streams consistently and updating model weights accordingly. However, most online SVMs require multiple data passes before the updated weights converge to stable solutions, and may be unable to address high-rate data streams. This paper presents OSVM_SP, a new online SVM with a single pass over streaming data, and three budgeted versions to bound the space requirement with support vector removal principles. The experimental results obtained with five public datasets show that OSVM_SP outperforms most state-of-the-art single-pass online algorithms in terms of accuracy and is comparable to batch-mode SVMs. Furthermore, the proposed budgeted algorithms achieve comparable predictive performance with only 1/3 of the space requirement.
Co-Occurrence-Based Double Thresholding Method for Research Topic Identification
Authors: Curiac Christian-Daniel , Doboli Alex , Curiac Daniel-Ioan
Published: August 2022

Identifying possible research gaps is a main step in problem framing, however it is increasingly tedious and expensive considering the continuously growing amount of published material. This situation suggests the critical need for methodologies and tools that can assist researchers in their selection of future research topics. Related work mostly focuses on trend analysis and impact prediction but less on research gap identification. This paper presents our first approach in automated identification of feasible research gaps by using a double-threshold procedure to eliminate the research gaps that are currently difficult to study or offer little novelty. Gaps are then found by extracting subgraphs for the less-frequent co-occurrences and correlations of key terms describing domains. A case study applying the methodology for electronic design automation (EDA) domain is also discussed in the paper.
A Novel Hybrid Group Decision Making Approach Based on EDAS and Regret Theory under a Fermatean Cubic Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Niu Wenyao , Rong Yuan , Yu Liying , Huang Lu
Published: August 2022

Intercity railway is an important system for the development of urban agglomeration, and the site selection of the Line Management Department of Intercity Railway (LMDIR) is a significant task for the railway department when constructing intercity railways. Owing to the complexity and uncertainty during the selection process, we constructed a multiple expert multi-criteria decision making (MEMCDM) method to provide a rational decision support model for a railway management department in the Fermatean cubic fuzzy set context. In this regard, an innovative extension called Fermatean cubic fuzzy sets (FCFSs) that integrates Fermatean fuzzy sets (FFSs) and cubic sets; several basic theories of FCFSs, including the score and accuracy functions; and distance measures are also given. Then, a series of Fermatean cubic fuzzy Hamacher operators are put forward to flexibly fuse Fermatean cubic fuzzy information, and the corresponding valuable characteristics of these operators are also investigated. Thirdly, the Fermatean cubic fuzzy logarithmic percentage-change-driven objective weighting (LOPCOW) approach is recommended based on the score function to recognize the importance of criteria, and the similarity-based method is deployed to identify the expert weight information. Fourthly, a hybrid MEMCDM methodology integrating the proposed Fermatean cubic fuzzy Hamacher operators, the LOPCOW method, whose evaluation is based on distance from average solution (EDAS) method based on regret theory, is designed to ascertain the prioritization of the schemes. Consequently, an empirical test concerning the site selection of LMDIR is shown to validate the feasibility and usefulness of the designed MEMCDM approach. The analysis involving the sensibility test and comparison study with prior methods is displayed to emphasize the effectuality and advantages of the propounded method. The outcomes demonstrate that the hybrid method recommended in this research possesses superior robustness and feasibility to cope with complicated decision issues. The findings of this research show that the presented method can recommend more credible site selection of LMDIR when encountering uncertainties and abundant impact factors.
Direct Production of Ni–Co–Mn Mixtures for Cathode Precursors from Cobalt-Rich Lithium-Ion Battery Leachates by Solvent Extraction
Authors: Jantunen Niklas , Virolainen Sami , Sainio Tuomo
Published: August 2022

A novel solvent extraction scheme was developed for the processing of Co-rich lithium-ion battery (LIB) leachate to a Ni–Co–Mn (NCM) sulfate mixture that can be directly used in the precursor synthesis of LIB cathodes. Conventional hydrometallurgical recycling of spent LIBs usually aims at separation of Li, Ni, Co, and Mn into pure fractions, which is simplified here. Operating pH and the number of extraction stages for each separation were evaluated from batch equilibrium experiments. Two continuous countercurrent extractions with bis(2-ethylhexyl) hydrogen phosphate (D2EHPA) and one with Cyanex 272 were studied in bench-scale mixer-settler equipment, and a Ni–Co–Mn solution with n(Ni):n(Co) = 14.16 and n(Ni):n(Mn) = 8.06 was obtained. The Ni:Co:Mn molar ratio in the NCM mixture can be adjusted to, for example, 8:1:1 using a Co-rich raffinate from the same process, and no additional transition metal salts are required for tuning the composition. Stripping raffinate containing 102.7 g L−1 Co at 99.8% relative purity was obtained from Cyanex 272 extraction. The main benefit of the process concept is that the solvent extraction separations can be operated with less stringent requirements than when producing pure metal salts.
In-Situ Fabrication, Microstructure and Mechanical Performance of Nano Iron-Rich Precipitate Reinforced Cu and Cu Alloys
Authors: Li Zongxuan , Chen Kaixuan , Chen Xiaohua , Zhu Yuzhi , Chen Mingwen , Wang Yanlin , Shen Jiangxu , Shi Jiayun , Wang Zidong
Published: August 2022

In this paper, the research progress on the strengthening of copper and copper alloy is reviewed. The research shows that traditional strengthening methods are often accompanied by the decrease of plasticity, and there are limitations in size, cost, and other aspects in the process. The in-situ nanoparticle strengthening and plasticizing technology proposed in recent years can avoid the above problems. In this paper, the idea of in-situ nanoparticle strengthening is introduced to realize the simultaneous enhancement of strength and ductility of as-cast pure copper and tin bronze alloys. The effects of in-situ precipitation of iron-rich nanoparticles on the microstructure, and mechanical properties of different copper alloy systems, are systematically elucidated based on the former characterization and mechanical testing results. The results show that the in-situ introduction of iron-rich nanoparticles in the copper systems induces the formation of a nano precipitate-fine grain (NPFG) structure, which greatly improves the strength and ductility of copper alloys. The evolution of size, distribution, number density, morphology evolution in iron-rich nanoparticles, and the formation mechanism of NPFG structure, as well as the mechanism of NPFG strengthening and toughening, are summarized. An industrial-applicable casting process is proposed to prepare bulk NPFG structured copper alloys with complex shape, high strength, and high ductility.
Design of Power/Ground Noise Suppression Structures Based on a Dispersion Analysis for Packages and Interposers with Low-Loss Substrates
Authors: Kim Youngwoo
Published: August 2022

In this study, power/ground noise suppression structures were designed based on a proposed dispersion analysis for packages and interposers with low-loss substrates. Low-loss substrates are suitable for maintaining signal integrity (SI) of high-speed channels operating at high data rates. However, when the power/ground noise is generated in the power delivery network (PDN), low-loss substrates cannot suppress the power/ground noise, thereby causing PDN-induced crosstalk and various power integrity (PI) issues. To solve these issues, noise suppression structures generating electromagnetic bandgap were proposed and designed. The mechanism of the proposed structures was examined based on a proposed dispersion analysis. The proposed structures were designed and fabricated in glass interposer test vehicles, and the effectiveness of the structures on power/ground noise suppression was experimentally validated by measuring the noise suppression band. The proposed dispersion analysis was also verified by comparing the derived noise stopband edges (fL and fU) with electromagnetic (EM) simulation and experimental results, and they all showed good agreement. Compared to EM simulation, the proposed method required smaller computational resources but showed good accuracy. Using the proposed dispersion analysis, various power/ground noise suppression bands were designed considering the applications and design rules of packages and interposers. With measurements and EM/circuit simulations, the effectiveness of the designed structure in maintaining SI/PI was verified. By adopting the designed structures, the noise transfer properties in the PDN were suppressed in the target suppression frequency band, which is key for PI design. Finally, it was verified that the proposed structures were capable of suppressing power/ground noise propagation in the PDN by analyzing PDN-induced crosstalk in the high-speed channel.
Effect of Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles on the Quorum-Sensing System of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 and PA14
Authors: Saeki Erika Kushikawa , Martins Heloísa Moreira , Camargo Larissa Ciappina de , Anversa Laís , Tavares Eliandro Reis , Yamada-Ogatta Sueli Fumie , Lioni Lucy Megumi Yamauchi , Kobayashi Renata Katsuko Takayama , Nakazato Gerson
Published: August 2022

The increase in multidrug-resistant microorganisms represents a global threat requiring the development novel strategies to fight bacterial infection. This study aimed to assess the effect of silver nanoparticles (bio-AgNPs) on bacterial growth, biofilm formation, production of virulence factors, and expression of genes related to the quorum-sensing (QS) system of P. aeruginosa PAO1 and PA14. Biofilm formation and virulence assays were performed with bio-AgNPs. RT-qPCR was carried out to determine the effect of bio-AgNPs on the QS regulatory genes lasI, lasR, rhlI, rhlR, pqsA, and mvfR. Bio-AgNPs had an MIC value of 62.50 μM, for both strains. Phenotypic and genotypic assays were carried out using sub-MIC values. Experimental results showed that treatment with sub-MICs of bio-AgNPs reduced (p < 0.05) the motility and rhamnolipids and elastase production in P. aeruginosa PAO1. In PA14, bio-AgNPs stimulated swarming and twitching motilities as well as biofilm formation and elastase and pyocyanin production. Bio-AgNP treatment increased (p < 0.05) the expression of QS genes in PAO1 and PA14. Despite the different phenotypic behaviors in both strains, both showed an increase in the expression of QS genes. Demonstrating that the bio-AgNPs acted in the induction of regulation. The possible mechanism underlying the action of bio-AgNPs involves the induction of the rhl and/or pqs system of PAO1 and of the las and/or pqs system of PA14. These results suggest that exposure to low concentrations of bio-AgNPs may promote the expression of QS regulatory genes in P. aeruginosa, consequently inducing the production of virulence factors such as elastase, pyocyanin, and biofilms.
Discovery of Some Heterocyclic Molecules as Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (BMP-2)-Inducible Kinase Inhibitors: Virtual Screening, ADME Properties, and Molecular Docking Simulations
Authors: Belal Amany , Elkady Hazem , Al-Karmalawy Ahmed A. , Amin Ali H. , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , El-Sherbiny Mohamed , Al-Serwi Rasha Hamed , Abdou Mohamed Attia , Ibrahim Mona H. , Mehany Ahmed B. M.
Published: August 2022

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are growth factors that have a vital role in the production of bone, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. Tumors’ upregulation of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and their receptors are key features of cancer progression. Regulation of the BMP kinase system is a new promising strategy for the development of anti-cancer drugs. In this work, based on a careful literature study, a library of benzothiophene and benzofuran derivatives was subjected to different computational techniques to study the effect of chemical structure changes on the ability of these two scaffolds to target BMP-2 inducible kinase, and to reach promising candidates with proposed activity against BMP-2 inducible kinase. The results of screening against Lipinski’s and Veber’s Rules produced twenty-one outside eighty-four compounds having drug-like molecular nature. Computational ADMET studies favored ten compounds (11, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 34, 35, 65, and 72) with good pharmacokinetic profile. Computational toxicity studies excluded compound 34 to elect nine compounds for molecular docking studies which displayed eight compounds (26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 35, 65, and 72) as promising BMP-2 inducible kinase inhibitors. The nine fascinating compounds will be subjected to extensive screening against serine/threonine kinases to explore their potential against these critical proteins. These promising candidates based on benzothiophene and benzofuran scaffolds deserve further clinical investigation as BMP-2 kinase inhibitors for the treatment of cancer.
Study on the Structure of a Mixed KCl and K2SO4 Aqueous Solution Using a Modified X-ray Scattering Device, Raman Spectroscopy, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Qiao Mengdan , Li Fei , Meng Xianze , Wang Meiling , Zhu Hanyu , Ji Zhiyong , Zhao Yingying , Liu Jie , Wang Shizhao , Guo Xiaofu , Bi Jingtao , Yuan Junsheng
Published: August 2022

The microstructure of a mixed KCl and K2SO4 aqueous solution was studied using X-ray scattering (XRS), Raman spectroscopy, and molecular dynamics simulation (MD). Reduced structure functions [F(Q)], reduced pair distribution functions [G(r)], Raman spectrum, and pair distribution functions (PDF) were obtained. The XRS results show that the main peak (r = 2.81 Å) of G(r) shifted to the right of the axis (r = 3.15 Å) with increased KCl and decreased K2SO4. The main peak was at r = 3.15 Å when the KCl concentration was 26.00% and the K2SO4 concentration was 0.00%. It is speculated that this phenomenon was caused by the main interaction changing, from K-OW (r = 2.80 Å) and OW-OW (r = 2.80 Å), to Cl−-OW (r = 3.14 Å) and K+-Cl− (r = 3.15 Å). According to the trend of the hydrogen bond structure in the Raman spectrum, when the concentration of KCl was high and K2SO4 was low, the destruction of the tetrahedral hydrogen bond network in the solution was more serious. This shows that the destruction strength of the anion to the hydrogen bond network structure in solution was Cl− > SO42−. In the MD simulations, the coordination number of OW-OW decreased with increasing KCl concentration, indicating that the tetrahedral hydrogen bond network was severely disrupted, which confirmed the results of the Raman spectroscopy. The hydration radius and coordination number of SO42− in the mixed solution were larger than Cl−, thus revealing the reason why the solubility of KCl in water was greater than that of K2SO4 at room temperature.
Ni(II) Ions May Target the Entire Melatonin Biosynthesis Pathway—A Plausible Mechanism of Nickel Toxicity
Authors: Wezynfeld Nina E. , Bonna Arkadiusz M. , Płonka Dawid , Bal Wojciech , Frączyk Tomasz
Published: August 2022

Nickel is toxic to humans. Its compounds are carcinogenic. Furthermore, nickel allergy is a severe health problem that affects approximately 10–20% of humans. The mechanism by which these conditions develop remains unclear, but it may involve the cleavage of specific proteins by nickel ions. Ni(II) ions cleave the peptide bond preceding the Ser/Thr-Xaa-His sequence. Such sequences are present in all four enzymes of the melatonin biosynthesis pathway, i.e., tryptophan 5-hydroxylase 1, aromatic-l-amino-acid decarboxylase, serotonin N-acetyltransferase, and acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase. Moreover, fragments prone to Ni(II) are exposed on surfaces of these proteins. Our results indicate that all four studied fragments undergo cleavage within tens of hours at pH 8.2 and 37 °C, corresponding with the conditions in the mitochondrial matrix. Since melatonin, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, is synthesized within the mitochondria of virtually all human cells, depleting its supply may be detrimental, e.g., by raising the oxidative stress level. Intriguingly, Ni(II) ions have been shown to mimic hypoxia through the stabilization of HIF-1α protein, but melatonin prevents the action of HIF-1α. Considering all this, the enzymes of the melatonin biosynthesis pathway seem to be a toxicological target for Ni(II) ions.
Green Template-Mediated Synthesis of Biowaste Nano-Hydroxyapatite: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Irwansyah Ferli Septi , Noviyanti Atiek Rostika , Eddy Diana Rakhmawaty , Risdiana Risdiana
Published: August 2022

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a well-known calcium phosphate ingredient comparable to human bone tissue. HA has exciting applications in many fields, especially biomedical applications, such as drug delivery, osteogenesis, and dental implants. Unfortunately, hydroxyapatite-based nanomaterials are synthesized by conventional methods using reagents that are not environmentally friendly and are expensive. Therefore, extensive efforts have been made to establish a simple, efficient, and green method to form nano-hydroxyapatite (NHA) biofunctional materials with significant biocompatibility, bioactivity, and mechanical strength. Several types of biowaste have proven to be a source of calcium in forming HA, including using chicken eggshells, fish bones, and beef bones. This systematic literature review discusses the possibility of replacing synthetic chemical reagents, synthetic pathways, and toxic capping agents with a green template to synthesize NHA. This review also shed insight on the simple green manufacture of NHA with controlled shape and size.
Facile Preparation and Analytical Utility of ZnO/Date Palm Fiber Nanocomposites in Lead Removal from Environmental Water Samples
Authors: Alhogbi Basma G. , Ibrahim Ohowd , Abdel Salam Mohamed , El-Shahawi Mohammed S. , Aslam Mohammed
Published: August 2022

This study reports a facile approach for preparing low-cost, eco-friendly nanocomposites of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) and date palm tree fiber (DPF) as a biomass sorbent. The hypothesis of this research work is the formation of an outstanding adsorbent based on the date palm fiber and ZnO nanoparticles. ZnO NP/DPF nanocomposites were synthesized by mixing the synthesized ZnO NPs and DPF in different mass ratios and evaluating their efficacy in adsorbing Pb2+ from aqueous solutions. The structure and surface morphology of the developed ZnO NP/DPF nanocomposite were critically characterized by XRD, FESEM, and TEM techniques. Compared to ZnO NPs, the ZnO NP/DPF nanocomposites displayed significantly enhanced Pb2+ uptake. Pb2+ adsorption was confirmed via various isotherm and kinetic models and thermodynamics. The computed Langmuir sorption capacity (qm) was found to be 88.76 mg/g (R2 > 0.998), and the pseudo-second-order R2 > 0.999 model was most appropriate for describing Pb2+ adsorption. Impregnating the biomass with ZnO NPs enhanced the spontaneity of the process, and the value (−56.55 kJ/mol) of ΔH displayed the exothermic characteristics of Pb2+ retention. Only the loaded ZnO NP/DPF achieved the removal of a high percentage (84.92%) of Pb2+ from the environmental water sample (seawater). This finding suggests the use of ZnO NP/DPF nanocomposites for removing heavy metals from environmental water samples to purify the samples.
How and Why Diets Change Post-Migration: A Qualitative Exploration of Dietary Acculturation among Recent Chinese Immigrants in Australia
Authors: Lee Sarah D. , Kellow Nicole J. , Huggins Catherine E. , Choi Tammie S. T.
Published: August 2022

Chinese immigrants living in Western countries are at increased risk for cardiometabolic diseases. Dietary acculturation has been implicated as a potential contributor, but little is known about why diets change post-migration. The purpose of this qualitative research study was to explore how and why diets change post-migration for Chinese immigrants living in Australia. Eleven participants undertook semi-structured interviews exploring and comparing their diets when they lived in China to their post-migration diets. Thematic analysis revealed that participants exhibited changed social structures of meal preparation, and made unacknowledged dietary changes, such as recipe modification, to maintain their traditional Chinese diet post-migration. Implications of both deliberate and unrecognized dietary changes post-migration include connections to increased risk for metabolic disease post-migration.
The Global Burden of Food Insecurity Due to COVID-19
Authors: Grosso Giuseppe
Published: August 2022

The insurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that no country or region was prepared to face such a devastating emergency, nor have researchers uncovered permanent solutions to solve this everlasting crisis thus far [...]
Effect of MED-02 Containing Two Probiotic Strains, Limosilactobacillus fermentum MG4231 and MG4244, on Body Fat Reduction in Overweight or Obese Subjects: A Randomized, Multicenter, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Cho Young Gyu , Yang Yun Jun , Yoon Yeong Sook , Lee Eon Sook , Lee Jun Hyung , Jeong Yulah , Kang Chang Ho
Published: August 2022

MED-02 is a complex supplement containing two probiotic strains, Limosilactobacillus fermentum MG4231 and MG4244, isolated from humans. The anti-obesity effects and safety profile of MED-02 were assessed in overweight and obese subjects. In this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, multicenter study, 100 healthy obese and overweight subjects aged 19–65 years with a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 31.9 kg/m2 were recruited and randomized to receive a placebo or MED-02 (5 × 109 CFU/day). After 12 weeks of consumption, body fat mass (−1166.82 g vs. −382.08 g; p = 0.024) and body fat percentage (−0.85% vs. −0.11%; p = 0.030), as evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and body weight (−2.06 kg vs. −1.22 kg; p = 0.041), were significantly reduced in the MED-02 group compared to the placebo group. The safety profile did not differ among the groups. No serious adverse effects were observed in either group. These results suggest that MED-02 is a safe and beneficial probiotics that reduces body fat and body weight in overweight or obese individuals.
West Mexico Berries Modulate α-Amylase, α-Glucosidase and Pancreatic Lipase Using In Vitro and In Silico Approaches
Authors: Virgen-Carrillo Carmen Alejandrina , Valdés Miramontes Elia Herminia , Fonseca Hernández David , Luna-Vital Diego A. , Mojica Luis
Published: August 2022

The objective was to evaluate the antioxidant and biological potential of eight freeze-dried berry varieties of southern Jalisco using in silico and in vitro approaches. Fourteen tentative phenolic compounds were identified in berries by ESI-QToF, including anthocyanins, phenolic acids, flavanols and flavonols. In silico assays of phytochemicals in the berry inhibiting enzymes related to obesity and diabetes showed predicted binding energy interactions (ranging from −5.4 to −9.3 kcal/mol). Among the cultivars, antioxidant potential for DPPH IC50 ranged from 1.27 to 3.40 mg/mL, ABTS IC50 from 2.26 to 7.32 mg/mL and nitric oxide (NO) inhibition IC50 from 4.26 to 11.07 mg/mL. The potential to inhibit α-amylase IC50 ranged from 4.02 to 7.66 mg/mL, α-glucosidase IC50 from 0.27 to 4.09 mg/mL, lipase IC50 from 1.30 to 4.82 mg/mL and DPP-IV IC50 from 1.36 to 3.31 mg/mL. Blackberry cultivars from the southern Jalisco region showed outstanding biological potential compared to other evaluated berries and could be used in the formulation of functional foods in the prevention of noncommunicable diseases.
Understanding the Physiological Role of Electroneutral Na+-Coupled HCO3− Cotransporter and Its Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Zahra Aqeela , Wang YunFu , Wu Jianping
Published: August 2022

Acid–base homeostasis is critical for proper physiological function and pathology. The SLC4 family of HCO3− transmembrane cotransporters is one of the HCO3− transmembrane transport carriers responsible for cellular pH regulation and the uptake or secretion of HCO3− in epithelial cells. NBCn1 (SLC4A7), an electroneutral Na+/HCO3− cotransporter, is extensively expressed in several tissues and functions as a cotransporter for net acid extrusion after cellular acidification. However, the expression and activity level of NBCn1 remain elusive. In addition, NBCn1 has been involved in numerous other cellular processes such as cell volume, cell death/survival balance, transepithelial transport, as well as regulation of cell viability. This review aims to give an inclusive overview of the most recent advances in the research of NBCn1, emphasizing the basic features, regulation, and tissue-specific physiology as well as the development and application of potent inhibitors of NBCn1 transporter in cancer therapy. Research and development of targeted therapies should be carried out for NBCn1 and its associated pathways.
Brain Targeting of Quetiapine Fumarate via Intranasal Delivery of Loaded Lipospheres: Fabrication, In-Vitro Evaluation, Optimization, and In-Vivo Assessment
Authors: Zaki Randa Mohammed , Aldawsari Mohammed F. , Alossaimi Manal A. , Alzaid Shaikah F. , Devanathadesikan Seshadri Vidya , Almurshedi Alanood S. , Aldosari Basmah Nasser , Yusif Rehab Mohammad , Sayed Ossama M.
Published: August 2022

A liposphere system for intranasal delivery of quetiapine fumarate (QTF) was created to assess the potential for enhanced drug delivery. We investigated the effects of particle size, entrapment effectiveness, poly dispersibility index, and pluronic incorporation percentage on these variables. The optimal formula was examined using a TEM, and investigations into DSC, XRD, and FTIR were made. Optimized liposphere formulation in vitro dissolution investigation with a mean diameter of 294.4 ± 18.2 nm revealed about 80% drug release in 6 h. The intranasal injection of QTF-loaded lipospheres showed a shorter Tmax compared to that of intranasal and oral suspension, per the findings of an in vivo tissue distribution investigation in Wistar mice. Lipospheres were able to achieve higher drug transport efficiency (DTE %) and direct nose-to-brain drug transfer (DTP %). A potentially effective method for delivering QTF to specific brain regions is the liposphere system.
Orally Administered Amphotericin B Nanoformulations: Physical Properties of Nanoparticle Carriers on Bioavailability and Clinical Relevance
Authors: Fairuz Shadreen , Nair Rajesh Sreedharan , Billa Nashiru
Published: August 2022

Amphotericin B is an effective polyene antifungal considered as a “gold standard” in the management of fungal infections. Currently, it is administered mainly by IV due to poor aqueous solubility, which precludes its delivery orally. Paradoxically, IV administration is akin to side effects that have not been fully eliminated even with more recent IV formulations. Thus, the need for alternative formulations/route of administration for amphotericin B remains crucial. The oral route offers the possibility of delivering amphotericin B systemically and with diminished side effects; however, enterocyte permeation remains a constraint. Cellular phagocytosis of submicron particles can be used to courier encapsulated drugs. In this regard, nanoparticulate delivery systems have received much attention in the past decade. This review examines the trajectory of orally delivered amphotericin B and discusses key physical factors of nanoformulations that impact bioavailability. The review also explores obstacles that remain and gives a window into the possibility of realizing an oral nanoformulation of amphotericin B in the near future.
Evaluation and Comparison of Traditional Plaster and Fiberglass Casts with 3D-Printed PLA and PLA–CaCO3 Composite Splints for Bone-Fracture Management
Authors: Schlégl Ádám , Told Roland , Kardos Kinga , Szőke András , Ujfalusi Zoltan , Maróti Péter
Published: August 2022

Bone fractures pose a serious challenge for the healthcare system worldwide. A total of 17.5% of these fractures occur in the distal radius. Traditional cast materials commonly used for treatment have certain disadvantages, including a lack of mechanical and water resistance, poor hygiene, and odors. Three-dimensional printing is a dynamically developing technology which can potentially replace the traditional casts. The aim of the study was to examine and compare the traditional materials (plaster cast and fiberglass cast) with Polylactic Acid (PLA) and PLA–CaCO3 composite materials printed using Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) technology and to produce a usable cast of each material. The materials were characterized by tensile, flexural, Charpy impact, Shore D hardness, flexural fatigue, and variable load cyclic tests, as well as an absorbed water test. In addition, cost-effectiveness was evaluated and compared. The measured values for tensile strength and flexural strength decreased with the increase in CaCO3 concentration. In the fatigue tests, the plaster cast and the fiberglass cast did not show normal fatigue curves; only the 3D-printed materials did so. Variable load cyclic tests showed that traditional casts cannot hold the same load at the same deflection after a higher load has been used. During these tests, the plaster cast had the biggest relative change (−79.7%), compared with −4.8 % for the 3D-printed materials. The results clearly showed that 3D-printed materials perform better in both static and dynamic mechanical tests; therefore, 3D printing could be a good alternative to customized splints and casts in the near future.
Apigenin Loaded Lipoid–PLGA–TPGS Nanoparticles for Colon Cancer Therapy: Characterization, Sustained Release, Cytotoxicity, and Apoptosis Pathways
Authors: Alfaleh Mohamed A. , Hashem Anwar M. , Abujamel Turki S. , Alhakamy Nabil A. , Kalam Mohd Abul , Riadi Yassine , Md Shadab
Published: August 2022

Colon cancer (CC) is one of major causes of mortality and affects the socio-economic status world-wide. Therefore, developing a novel and efficient delivery system is needed for CC management. Thus, in the present study, lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles of apigenin (LPHyNPs) was prepared and characterized on various parameters such as particle size (234.80 ± 12.28 nm), PDI (0.11 ± 0.04), zeta potential (−5.15 ± 0.70 mV), EE (55.18 ± 3.61%), etc. Additionally, the DSC, XRD, and FT-IR analysis determined drug entrapment and affinity with the selected excipient, demonstrating a promising drug affinity with the lipid polymer. Morphological analysis via SEM and TEM exhibited spherical NPs with a dark color core, which indicated drug entrapment inside the core. In vitro release study showed significant (p < 0.05) sustained release of AGN from LPHyNPs than AGN suspension. Further, the therapeutic efficacy in terms of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of developed LPHyNPs against CC was estimated by performing flow cytometry and comparing its effectiveness with blank LPHyNPs and AGN suspension, which exhibited remarkable outcomes in favor of LPHyNPs. Moreover, the mechanism behind the anticancer attribute was further explored by estimating gene expression of various signaling molecules such as Bcl-2, BAX, NF-κB, and mTOR that were involved in carcinogenic pathways, which indicated significant (p < 0.05) results for LPHyNPs. Moreover, to strengthen the anticancer potential of LPHyNPs against chemoresistance, the expression of JNK and MDR-1 genes was estimated. Outcomes showed that their expression level reduced appreciably when compared to blank LPHyNPs and AGN suspension. Hence, it can be concluded that developed LPHyNPs could be an efficient therapeutic system for managing CC.
Tensile Mechanical Properties and Dynamic Constitutive Model of Polyurea Elastomer under Different Strain Rates
Authors: Chen Yu , Guo Hui , Sun Minqian , Lv Xiao
Published: August 2022

In order to clearly explain the large deformation mechanical characteristics of polyurea under impact and to construct a dynamic model that can be used for finite element analysis, two kinds of polyurea materials were prepared by formula design, and their uniaxial tensile properties were tested with strain rates ranging from 10−3~103 s−1 using an electronic universal testing machine and a split Hopkinson tensile bar (SHTB). The tensile stress–strain curves of polyurea were obtained under different strain rates. The difference in tensile mechanical properties of the materials was analyzed under dynamic loading and quasi-static loading. Based on the nonlinear viscoelastic theory and the energy dissipation rate inequality, a dynamic visco-hyperelastic constitutive model of polyurea elastomer was established. The research results showed that the uniaxial tensile stress–strain curves of two kinds of polyurea at different strain rates had obvious nonlinear characteristics and strain rate sensitivity and that their tensile strength increased with increased strain rate. The polyurea gradually changed from exhibiting rubbery mechanical behavior under quasi-static loading to glassy mechanical behavior under dynamic loading. The fitting analysis of experimental data and the results of finite element simulation showed that the dynamic constitutive model can predict the nonlinear mechanical behavior of polyurea elastomers over a wide range of strain rates. The research results could contribute to a deepening of the understanding of the damage and failure behavior of polyurea under impact load and provide a theoretical basis for numerical studies on impact safety design of polyurea-coated protective structures.