bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicians’ Perception of Oral Nutritional Supplement Acceptance and Tolerability in Malnourished Outpatients: PerceptiONS Study
Authors: Pedrianes-Martin P. , Dassen-de-Monzo C. , Guardia-Baena J. , Riestra-Fernández M. , Salom-Vendrell C. ,   PerceptiONS Group, Calvo-Barbero A. , Lizán-Tudela L.
Published: February 2023

Malnutrition is a common condition associated with various pathologies such as infections, neoplasms and digestive system disorders. Patients can be managed using different strategies, which include dietary modifications or oral nutritional supplements (ONS). It is important to promote good ONS adherence in order to attain clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness. Several factors (amount, type, duration and tolerability) may have an impact on ONS adherence. PerceptiONS is a descriptive, cross-sectional observational study based on an ad hoc electronic survey designed to explore physicians’ perception of malnourished outpatients prescribed ONS. The survey considered adherence, acceptance/satisfaction, tolerability and benefits within the context of Spain’s healthcare system. The perceptions of 548 physicians regarding the experience of 2516 patients were analyzed. From the physicians’ perspective, 57.11% of patients adhered to over 75% of the prescribed ONS. The organoleptic properties of ONS represented the aspect with the most positive impact on adherence, with smell (43.72%) ranking as the top characteristic. In general, patients were satisfied (90.10%) with the ONS, with their related benefits (88.51%) and their organoleptic properties (90.42%), and accepted ONS in their daily diet (88.63%). ONS improved patients’ general condition (87.04%), quality of life (QoL) (81.96%) and vitality/energy (81.28%). Physicians would prescribe the same ONS again in 96.4% of the cases.
Excessive Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages and Extremely High Levels of High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HALP) in the ELSA-Brasil Cohort Baseline
Authors: Enriquez-Martinez Oscar Geovanny , Silva Pereira Taísa Sabrina , Mill Jose Geraldo , Fonseca Maria de Jesus Mendes da , Molina Maria del Carmen Bisi , Griep Rosane Harter
Published: February 2023

Background: It has already been established that the consumption of alcoholic beverages increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in dose–response. Methods and Results:A cross-sectional analysis was carried out with 6132 participants of both sexes aged between 35 and 74 years, who were active and retired workers from six Brazilian states. Heavy drinkers were categorized by sex: men > 210 g/week and women > 140 g/week; moderate drinkers: men ≤ 209 g/week and women ≤ 139 g/week. The HDL-C level was dichotomized into normal (40 mg/dL–82.9 mg/dL) and extremely high (≥83 mg/dL). We used binary logistic regression to assess associations between baseline alcohol intake and HDL-C, which were adjusted for sex, age, income, physical activity, kilocalories and body mass index (BMI), and we found an positive association between extremely high HDL-C and the excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. These participants were mostly women with a high income, lower waist circumference, kilocalorie consumption and also a higher consumption in all categories of alcoholic beverages. Conclusion: Excessive alcohol consumption was associated with a higher probability of extremely high HDL-C.
Eating Spicy Food, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) Score, and Their Interaction on Incident Stroke in Southwestern Chinese Aged 30–79: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Liling , Tang Wenge , Wu Xiaomin , Zhang Rui , Ding Rui , Liu Xin , Tang Xiaojun , Wu Jing , Ding Xianbin
Published: February 2023

Little is known about the association between spicy food intake, dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) score, and incident stroke. This study aimed to explore the association of eating spicy food, DASH score, and their interaction with stroke incidence. We included 22,160 Han residents aged 30–79 in southwest China from the China Multi-Ethnic Cohort. Three hundred and twelve cases were newly diagnosed with stroke by October 8, 2022, during a mean of 45.5 months of follow-up. Cox regression analyses showed that eating spicy food reduced stroke risk by 34% among people with low DASH scores (HR 0.66, 95%CI 0.45–0.97), while individuals with high DASH scores versus low DASH scores had a 46% lower stroke incidence among spicy food nonconsumers (HR 0.54, 95%CI 0.36–0.82). The HR of the multiplicative interactive term was 2.02 (95%CI 1.24–3.30) and the overall estimates of relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and the synergy index (S) were 0.54 (95%CI 0.24–0.83), 0.68 (95%CI 0.23–1.14), and 0.29 (95%CI 0.12–0.70), respectively. Consuming spicy food seems to be associated with lower stroke risk only in people who have a lower DASH score, while the beneficial effect of higher DASH scores seems to be found only among nonconsumers of spicy food, and a negative interaction may exist between them in southwestern Chinese aged 30–79. This study could provide scientific evidence for dietary guidance to reduce stroke risk.
Systematic Review on Individualized Versus Standardized Parenteral Nutrition in Preterm Infants
Authors: Mihatsch Walter , Jiménez Varas Miguel Ángel , Diehl Lucia Lorenzino , Carnielli Virgilio , Schuler Rahel , Gebauer Corinna , Sáenz de Pipaón Marcos Miguel
Published: February 2023

The need for high quality evidence is recognized for optimizing practices of parenteral nutrition (PN). The purpose of the present systematic review is to update the available evidence and investigate the effect of standardized PN (SPN) vs. individualized PN (IPN) on protein intake, immediate morbidities, growth, and long-term outcome in preterm infants. A literature search was performed on articles published in the period from 1/2015 to 11/2022 in PubMed and Cochrane database for trials on parenteral nutrition in preterm infants. Three new studies were identified. All new identified trials were nonrandomized observational trials using historical controls. SPN may increase weight and occipital frontal circumference gain and lower the value of maximum weight loss. More recent trials suggest that SPN may easily increase early protein intake. SPN may reduce the sepsis incidence, but overall, no significant effect was found. There was no significant effect of standardization of PN on mortality or stage ≥2 necrotizing enterocolite (NEC) incidence. In conclusion SPN may improve growth through higher nutrient (especially protein) intake and has no effect on sepsis, NEC, mortality, or days of PN.
In Vitro Investigation of the Antibacterial Activity of Nine Commercial Water Disinfectants, Acidifiers, and Glyceride Blends against the Most Important Poultry Zoonotic Bacteria
Authors: Mantzios Tilemachos , Tsiouris Vasilios , Kiskinis Konstantinos , Economou Vangelis , Petridou Evanthia , Tsitsos Anestis , Patsias Apostolos , Apostolou Ioanna , Papadopoulos Georgios A. , Giannenas Ilias , Fortomaris Paschalis
Published: February 2023

Identifying and monitoring the efficiency of alternative biocides that are presently used in livestock is gaining vast attention. The objective of this study was to determine, in vitro, the antibacterial activity of nine commercial water disinfectants, acidifiers, and glyceride blends against clinical isolates or reference strains of zoonotic pathogens belonging to the genera Escherichia spp., Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., Listeria spp., and Staphylococcus spp. For each product, the antibacterial activity was tested in concentrations ranging from 0.002 to 1.136% v/v and expressed as the minimum concentration of the product that inhibits bacterial growth (MIC). Water disinfectants Cid 2000™ and Aqua-clean® recorded MICs ranging from 0.002 to 0.142% v/v, while the lowest MICs were recorded at two strains of Campylobacter (0.002–0.004% v/v). Virkon® S displayed various MICs (0.013–0.409% w/v) and was highly effective at suppressing the growth of Gram-positive bacteria such as S. aureus (0.013–0.026% w/v). The MICs of water acidifiers (Agrocid Super™Oligo, Premium acid, and Ultimate acid) and glyceride blends (CFC Floramix, FRA®LAC34, and FRA®Gut Balance) ranged from 0.036 to 1.136% v/v, and for most of these products, MICs were closely correlated by their ability to modify the pH of the culture medium close to 5. In conclusion, most of the tested products showed promising antibacterial activity; as a result, they would be good candidates for pathogen control in poultry farms and for reducing the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. However, further in vivo studies are recommended to provide relevant information for the underlying mechanisms, as well as for the establishment of the optimal dosage scheme for each product and their possible synergies.
Systematic Review of the Key Factors Influencing the Indoor Airborne Spread of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: de Crane D’Heysselaer Simon , Parisi Gianni , Lisson Maxime , Bruyère Olivier , Donneau Anne-Françoise , Fontaine Sebastien , Gillet Laurent , Bureau Fabrice , Darcis Gilles , Thiry Etienne , Ducatez Mariette , Snoeck Chantal J. , Zientara Stéphan , Haddad Nadia , Humblet Marie-France , Ludwig-Begall Louisa F. , Daube Georges , Thiry Damien , Misset Benoît , Lambermont Bernard , Tandjaoui-Lambiotte Yacine , Zahar Jean-Raph , Sartor Kevin , Noël Catherine , Saegerman Claude , Haubruge Eric
Published: February 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic due to the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been plaguing the world since late 2019/early 2020 and has changed the way we function as a society, halting both economic and social activities worldwide. Classrooms, offices, restaurants, public transport, and other enclosed spaces that typically gather large groups of people indoors, and are considered focal points for the spread of the virus. For society to be able to go “back to normal”, it is crucial to keep these places open and functioning. An understanding of the transmission modes occurring in these contexts is essential to set up effective infection control strategies. This understanding was made using a systematic review, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. We analyze the different parameters influencing airborne transmission indoors, the mathematical models proposed to understand it, and discuss how we can act on these parameters. Methods to judge infection risks through the analysis of the indoor air quality are described. Various mitigation measures are listed, and their efficiency, feasibility, and acceptability are ranked by a panel of experts in the field. Thus, effective ventilation procedures controlled by CO2-monitoring, continued mask wearing, and a strategic control of room occupancy, among other measures, are put forth to enable a safe return to these essential places.
Translational Fidelity during Bacterial Stresses and Host Interactions
Authors: Lyu Zhihui , Wilson Cierra , Ling Jiqiang
Published: February 2023

Translational fidelity refers to accuracy during protein synthesis and is maintained in all three domains of life. Translational errors occur at base levels during normal conditions and may rise due to mutations or stress conditions. In this article, we review our current understanding of how translational fidelity is perturbed by various environmental stresses that bacterial pathogens encounter during host interactions. We discuss how oxidative stress, metabolic stresses, and antibiotics affect various types of translational errors and the resulting effects on stress adaption and fitness. We also discuss the roles of translational fidelity during pathogen–host interactions and the underlying mechanisms. Many of the studies covered in this review will be based on work with Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli, but other bacterial pathogens will also be discussed.
Effects of Simvastatin on Pharmacokinetics and Anticoagulant Effects of Dabigatran in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Chung Hyewon , Kim Jong-Min , Park Jin-Woo , Noh Jihyeon , Kim Kyoung-Ah , Park Ji-Young
Published: February 2023

Higher risk of major hemorrhage associated with concomitant use of dabigatran and simvastatin compared to other statins was previously reported with a suggestion of P-glycoprotein-mediated interaction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of simvastatin on pharmacokinetics and anticoagulant effects of dabigatran, a direct oral anticoagulant. A total of 12 healthy subjects were enrolled in an open-label, two-period, single sequence study. Subjects were given 150 mg of dabigatran etexilate followed by 40 mg of once-daily simvastatin for seven days. Dabigatran etexilate was administered with simvastatin on the seventh day of simvastatin administration. Blood samples for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analyses were obtained until 24 h post-dose of dabigatran etexilate with or without co-administration of simvastatin. Pharmacokinetic parameters were derived from noncompartmental analysis for dabigatran etexilate, dabigatran, and dabigatran acylglucuronide. When simvastatin was co-administered, geometric mean ratios of area under time-concentration curves for dabigatran etexilate, dabigatran, and dabigatran acylglucuronide were 1.47, 1.21, and 1.57, respectively, compared to when dabigatran etexilate was administered alone. Thrombin generation assay and coagulation assay showed similar profiles between before and after co-administration of simvastatin. This study provides evidence that simvastatin treatment plays a minor role in modulating pharmacokinetics and anticoagulant effects of dabigatran etexilate.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel Hydroxamic Acid-Based Organoselenium Hybrids
Authors: Alotaibi Jameelah S. , Al-Faiyz Yasair S. , Shaaban Saad
Published: February 2023

We report the design and synthesis of novel hydroxamic acid-tethered organoselenium (OSe) hybrids. Their antimicrobial and anticancer activities were assessed against different microbes (e.g., Candida albicans (C. albicans), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)), as well as liver and breast carcinomas. OSe hybrid 8 showed promising anticancer activity, with IC50 = 7.57 ± 0.5 µM against HepG2 and IC50 = 9.86 ± 0.7 µM against MCF-7 cells. Additionally, OSe compounds 8 and 15 exhibited promising antimicrobial activities, particularly against C. albicans (IA% = 91.7 and 83.3) and S. aureus (IA% = 90.5 and 71.4). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay confirmed the potential antimicrobial activity of OSe compound 8. OSe compounds 8 and 16 displayed good antioxidant activities compared to vitamin C in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays. These results indicate that hydroxamic acid-based organoselenium hybrids have promising biological activities such as anticancer, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, especially compounds 8, 13, 15, and 16, which warrant further studies.
Kynureninase Promotes Immunosuppression and Predicts Survival in Glioma Patients: In Silico Data Analyses of the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) and of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)
Authors: Pérez de la Cruz Gonzalo , Pérez de la Cruz Verónica , Navarro Cossio Javier , Vázquez Cervantes Gustavo Ignacio , Salazar Aleli , Orozco Morales Mario , Pineda Benjamin
Published: February 2023

Kynureninase (KYNU) is a kynurenine pathway (KP) enzyme that produces metabolites with immunomodulatory properties. In recent years, overactivation of KP has been associated with poor prognosis of several types of cancer, in particular by promoting the invasion, metastasis, and chemoresistance of cancer cells. However, the role of KYNU in gliomas remains to be explored. In this study, we used the available data from TCGA, CGGA and GTEx projects to analyze KYNU expression in gliomas and healthy tissue, as well as the potential contribution of KYNU in the tumor immune infiltrate. In addition, immune-related genes were screened with KYNU expression. KYNU expression correlated with the increased malignancy of astrocytic tumors. Survival analysis in primary astrocytomas showed that KYNU expression correlated with poor prognosis. Additionally, KYNU expression correlated positively with several genes related to an immunosuppressive microenvironment and with the characteristic immune tumor infiltrate. These findings indicate that KYNU could be a potential therapeutic target for modulating the tumor microenvironment and enhancing an effective antitumor immune response.
Rational Coformer Selection in the Development of 6-Propyl-2-thiouracil Pharmaceutical Cocrystals
Authors: Acebedo-Martínez Francisco Javier , Alarcón-Payer Carolina , Verdugo-Escamilla Cristóbal , Martín Jesús , Frontera Antonio , Domínguez-Martín Alicia , Gómez-Morales Jaime , Choquesillo-Lazarte Duane
Published: February 2023

Pharmaceutical multicomponent solids have proved to efficiently modulate the physicochemical properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients. In this context, polyphenols are interesting coformers for designing pharmaceutical cocrystals due to their wide safety profile and interesting antioxidant properties. The novel 6-propyl-2-thiouracil multicomponent solids have been obtained by mechanochemical synthesis and fully characterized by powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods. The analysis of supramolecular synthons has been further performed with computational methods, with both results revealing a robust supramolecular organization influenced by the different positions of the hydroxyl groups within the polyphenolic coformers. All novel 6-propyl-2-thiouracil cocrystals show an enhanced solubility profile, but unfortunately, their thermodynamic stability in aqueous media is limited to 24 h.
Potential Roles of Melatonin in Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity: From Cellular Mechanisms to Clinical Application
Authors: Attachaipanich Tanawat , Chattipakorn Siriporn C. , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: February 2023

Doxorubicin is a potent chemotherapeutic drug; however, its clinical application has been limited due to its cardiotoxicity. One of the major mechanisms of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity is the induction of oxidative stress. Evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrates that melatonin attenuated the increase in ROS production and lipid peroxidation from doxorubicin. Melatonin has been shown to exert protective effects on mitochondria damaged by doxorubicin via attenuating the depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane, restoring ATP production, and maintaining mitochondrial biogenesis. Doxorubicin increased mitochondrial fragmentation which impaired mitochondrial function; however, these adverse effects were reversed by melatonin. Melatonin also modulated cell death pathways by suppressing apoptotic and ferroptotic cell death caused by doxorubicin. These beneficial effects of melatonin could be responsible for the attenuation of changes in ECG, left ventricular dysfunction, and hemodynamic deterioration caused by doxorubicin. Despite these potential benefits, clinical evidence regarding the impact of melatonin in reducing cardiotoxicity induced by doxorubicin is still limited. Further clinical studies are justified to evaluate the efficacy of melatonin in protecting against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. This valuable information can be used to warrant the use of melatonin in a clinical setting under this condition.
Discovery of New 1,4,6-Trisubstituted-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines with Anti-Tumor Efficacy in Mouse Model of Breast Cancer
Authors: Georgiou Maria , Lougiakis Nikolaos , Tenta Roxane , Gioti Katerina , Baritaki Stavroula , Gkaralea Lydia-Evangelia , Deligianni Elisavet , Marakos Panagiotis , Pouli Nicole , Stellas Dimitris
Published: February 2023

Purine analogues are important therapeutic tools due to their affinity to enzymes or receptors that are involved in critical biological processes. In this study, new 1,4,6-trisubstituted pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines were designed and synthesized, and their cytotoxic potential was been studied. The new derivatives were prepared through suitable arylhydrazines, and upon successive conversion first to aminopyrazoles, they were converted then to 1,6-disubstituted pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-4-ones; this served as the starting point for the synthesis of the target compounds. The cytotoxic activity of the derivatives was evaluated against several human and murine cancer cell lines. Substantial structure activity relationships (SARs) could be extracted, mainly concerning the 4-alkylaminoethyl ethers, which showed potent in vitro antiproliferative activity in the low μM level (0.75–4.15 μΜ) without affecting the proliferation of normal cells. The most potent analogues underwent in vivo evaluation and were found to inhibit tumor growth in vivo in an orthotopic breast cancer mouse model. The novel compounds exhibited no systemic toxicity; they affected only the implanted tumors and did not interfere with the immune system of the animals. Our results revealed a very potent novel compound which could be an ideal lead for the discovery of promising anti-tumor agents, and could also be further explored for combination treatments with immunotherapeutic drugs.
Influence of the Topology of Poly(L-Cysteine) on the Self-Assembly, Encapsulation and Release Profile of Doxorubicin on Dual-Responsive Hybrid Polypeptides
Authors: Stavroulaki Dimitra , Kyroglou Iro , Skourtis Dimitrios , Athanasiou Varvara , Thimi Pandora , Sofianopoulou Sosanna , Kazaryan Diana , Fragouli Panagiota G. , Labrianidou Andromahi , Dimas Konstantinos , Patias Georgios , Haddleton David M. , Iatrou Hermis
Published: February 2023

Τhe synthesis of a series of novel hybrid block copolypeptides based on poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), poly(l-histidine) (PHis) and poly(l-cysteine) (PCys) is presented. The synthesis of the terpolymers was achieved through a ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of the corresponding protected N-carboxy anhydrides of Nim-Trityl-l-histidine and S-tert-butyl-l-cysteine, using an end-amine-functionalized poly(ethylene oxide) (mPEO-NH2) as macroinitiator, followed by the deprotection of the polypeptidic blocks. The topology of PCys was either the middle block, the end block or was randomly distributed along the PHis chain. These amphiphilic hybrid copolypeptides assemble in aqueous media to form micellar structures, comprised of an outer hydrophilic corona of PEO chains, and a pH- and redox-responsive hydrophobic layer based on PHis and PCys. Due to the presence of the thiol groups of PCys, a crosslinking process was achieved further stabilizing the nanoparticles (NPs) formed. Dynamic light scattering (DLS), static light scattering (SLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were utilized to obtain the structure of the NPs. Moreover, the pH and redox responsiveness in the presence of the reductive tripeptide of glutathione (GSH) was investigated at the empty as well as the loaded NPs. The ability of the synthesized polymers to mimic natural proteins was examined by Circular Dichroism (CD), while the study of zeta potential revealed the “stealth” properties of NPs. The anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) was efficiently encapsulated in the hydrophobic core of the nanostructures and released under pH and redox conditions that simulate the healthy and cancer tissue environment. It was found that the topology of PCys significantly altered the structure as well as the release profile of the NPs. Finally, in vitro cytotoxicity assay of the DOX-loaded NPs against three different breast cancer cell lines showed that the nanocarriers exhibited similar or slightly better activity as compared to the free drug, rendering these novel NPs very promising materials for drug delivery applications.
Microneedles in Advanced Microfluidic Systems: A Systematic Review throughout Lab and Organ-on-a-Chip Applications
Authors: Maia Renata , Carvalho Violeta , Lima Rui , Minas Graça , Rodrigues Raquel O.
Published: February 2023

Microneedles (MNs) have been widely used in biomedical applications for drug delivery and biomarker detection purposes. Furthermore, MNs can also be used as a stand-alone tool to be combined with microfluidic devices. For that purpose, lab- or organ-on-a-chip are being developed. This systematic review aims to summarize the most recent progress in these emerging systems, to identify their advantages and limitations, and discuss promising potential applications of MNs in microfluidics. Therefore, three databases were used to search papers of interest, and their selection was made following the guidelines for systematic reviews proposed by PRISMA. In the selected studies, the MNs type, fabrication strategy, materials, and function/application were evaluated. The literature reviewed showed that although the use of MNs for lab-on-a-chip has been more explored than for organ-on-a-chip, some recent studies have explored this applicability with great potential for the monitoring of organ models. Overall, it is shown that the presence of MNs in advanced microfluidic devices can simplify drug delivery and microinjection, as well as fluid extraction for biomarker detection by using integrated biosensors, which is a promising tool to precisely monitor, in real-time, different kinds of biomarkers in lab- and organ-on-a-chip platforms.
Computational Modeling on Drugs Effects for Left Ventricle in Cardiomyopathy Disease
Authors: Tomasevic Smiljana , Milosevic Miljan , Milicevic Bogdan , Simic Vladimir , Prodanovic Momcilo , Mijailovich Srboljub M. , Filipovic Nenad
Published: February 2023

Cardiomyopathy is associated with structural and functional abnormalities of the ventricular myocardium and can be classified in two major groups: hypertrophic (HCM) and dilated (DCM) cardiomyopathy. Computational modeling and drug design approaches can speed up the drug discovery and significantly reduce expenses aiming to improve the treatment of cardiomyopathy. In the SILICOFCM project, a multiscale platform is developed using coupled macro- and microsimulation through finite element (FE) modeling of fluid–structure interactions (FSI) and molecular drug interactions with the cardiac cells. FSI was used for modeling the left ventricle (LV) with a nonlinear material model of the heart wall. Simulations of the drugs’ influence on the electro-mechanics LV coupling were separated in two scenarios, defined by the principal action of specific drugs. We examined the effects of Disopyramide and Dygoxin which modulate Ca2+ transients (first scenario), and Mavacamten and 2-deoxy adenosine triphosphate (dATP) which affect changes of kinetic parameters (second scenario). Changes of pressures, displacements, and velocity distributions, as well as pressure–volume (P-V) loops in the LV models of HCM and DCM patients were presented. Additionally, the results obtained from the SILICOFCM Risk Stratification Tool and PAK software for high-risk HCM patients closely followed the clinical observations. This approach can give much more information on risk prediction of cardiac disease to specific patients and better insight into estimated effects of drug therapy, leading to improved patient monitoring and treatment.
Thermosensitive Polymer-Modified Mesoporous Silica for pH and Temperature-Responsive Drug Delivery
Authors: Thirupathi Kokila , Santhamoorthy Madhappan , Radhakrishnan Sivaprakasam , Ulagesan Selvakumari , Nam Taek-Jeong , Phan Thi Tuong Vy , Kim Seong-Cheol
Published: February 2023

A mesoporous silica-based drug delivery system (MS@PNIPAm-PAAm NPs) was synthesized by conjugating the PNIPAm-PAAm copolymer onto the mesoporous silica (MS) surface as a gatekeeper that responds to temperature and pH changes. The drug delivery studies are carried out in vitro at different pH (7.4, 6.5, and 5.0) and temperatures (such as 25 °C and 42 °C, respectively). The surface conjugated copolymer (PNIPAm-PAAm) acts as a gatekeeper below the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) (<32 °C) and as a collapsed globule structure above LCST (>32 °C), resulting in controlled drug delivery from the MS@PNIPAm-PAAm system. Furthermore, the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and cellular internalization results support the prepared MS@PNIPAm-PAAm NPs being biocompatible and readily taken up by MDA-MB-231 cells. The prepared MS@PNIPAm-PAAm NPs, with their pH-responsive drug release behavior and good biocompatibility, could be used as a drug delivery vehicle where sustained drug release at higher temperatures is required.
Thermal Lensing and Laser-Induced Damage in Special Pure Chalcogenide Ge35As10S55 and Ge20As22Se58 Glasses under Quasi-CW Fiber Laser Irradiation at 1908 nm
Authors: Antipov Oleg , Dobrynin Anton , Getmanovskiy Yuri , Karaksina Ella , Shiryaev Vladimir , Sukhanov Maksim , Kotereva Tatiana
Published: February 2023

Special pure chalcogenide glass is the material of choice for many mid-infrared optical fibers and fiber lasers. In this paper, the thermo-optical lensing and laser-induced damage were studied in Ge35As10S55 and Ge20As22Se58 glasses and compared with the well-studied As2S3 glass. The thermal Z-scan technique with the quasi-CW Tm-doped fiber laser at 1908 nm was applied to study thermal lensing in chalcogenide glass. The laser-induced damage of various chalcogenide glasses was determined using the one-on-one procedure. The thermal nonlinear refractive index of the Ge35As10S55 and Ge20As22Se58 glasses was found to be lower than that of the As2S3 glass. The laser-induced damage threshold of the Ge20As22Se58 glass was determined to be higher than that of the Ge35As10S55 glass. The difference in the thermal damage threshold of the Ge35As10S55 and Ge20As22Se58 glasses and their lower value in comparison with the As2S3 glass were explained by a deviation from the stoichiometry of glass compositions and their tendency to crystallize.
Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Eucalyptus globulus Essential Oil
Authors: Čmiková Natália , Galovičová Lucia , Schwarzová Marianna , Vukic Milena D. , Vukovic Nenad L. , Kowalczewski Przemysław Łukasz , Bakay Ladislav , Kluz Maciej Ireneusz , Puchalski Czeslaw , Kačániová Miroslava
Published: February 2023

Eucalyptus globulus essential oil (EGEO) is considered as a potential source of bioactive compounds with significant biological activity. The aim of this study was to analyze the chemical composition of EGEO, in vitro and in situ antimicrobial activity, antibiofilm activity, antioxidant activity, and insecticidal activity. The chemical composition was identified using gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The main components of EGEO were 1,8-cineole (63.1%), p-cimene (7.7%), a-pinene (7.3%), and a-limonene (6.9%). Up to 99.2% of monoterpenes were present. The antioxidant potential of essential oil and results indicate that 10 μL of this sample can neutralize 55.44 ± 0.99% of ABTS•+, which is equivalent to 3.22 ± 0.01 TEAC. Antimicrobial activity was determined via two methods: disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration. The best antimicrobial activity was shown against C. albicans (14.00 ± 1.00 mm) and microscopic fungi (11.00 ± 0.00 mm–12.33 ± 0.58 mm). The minimum inhibitory concentration showed the best results against C. tropicalis (MIC 50 2.93 µL/mL, MIC 90 3.17 µL/mL). The antibiofilm activity of EGEO against biofilm-forming P. flourescens was also confirmed in this study. The antimicrobial activity in situ, i.e., in the vapor phase, was significantly stronger than in the contact application. Insecticidal activity was also tested and at concentrations of 100%, 50%, and 25%; the EGEO killed 100% of O. lavaterae individuals. EGEO was comprehensively investigated in this study and information regarding the biological activities and chemical composition of the essential oil of Eucalyptus globulus was expanded.
Nanostructuring Biobased Epoxy Resin with PEO-PPO-PEO Block Copolymer
Authors: Barandiaran Irati , Gomez-Hermoso-de-Mendoza Joseba , Gutierrez Junkal , Tercjak Agnieszka , Kortaberria Galder
Published: February 2023

A biobased diglycidyl ether of vanillin (DGEVA) epoxy resin was nanostructured by poly(ethylene oxide-b-propylene oxide-b-ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) triblock copolymer. Due to the miscibility/immiscibility properties of the triblock copolymer in DGEVA resin, different morphologies were obtained depending on the triblock copolymer amount. A hexagonally packed cylinder morphology was kept until reaching 30 wt% of PEO-PPO-PEO content, while a more complex three-phase morphology was obtained for 50 wt%, in which large worm-like PPO domains appear surrounded by two different phases, one of them rich in PEO and another phase rich in cured DGEVA. UV-vis measurements show that the transmittance is reduced with the increase in triblock copolymer content, especially at 50 wt%, probably due to the presence of PEO crystals detected by calorimetry.
Colorimetric Determination of Glucose in Sweat Using an Alginate-Based Biosystem
Authors: Garcia-Rey Sandra , Gil-Hernandez Eva , Basabe-Desmonts Lourdes , Benito-Lopez Fernando
Published: February 2023

Glucose is an analyte of great importance, both in the clinical and sports fields. Since blood is the gold standard biofluid used for the analytical determination of glucose, there is high interest in finding alternative non-invasive biofluids, such as sweat, for its determination. In this research, we present an alginate-based bead-like biosystem integrated with an enzymatic assay for the determination of glucose in sweat. The system was calibrated and verified in artificial sweat, and a linear calibration range was obtained for glucose of 10–1000 µM. The colorimetric determination was investigated, and the analysis was carried out both in the black and white and in the Red:Green:Blue color code. A limit of detection and quantification of 3.8 µM and 12.7 µM, respectively, were obtained for glucose determination. The biosystem was also applied with real sweat, using a prototype of a microfluidic device platform as a proof of concept. This research demonstrated the potential of alginate hydrogels as scaffolds for the fabrication of biosystems and their possible integration in microfluidic devices. These results are intended to bring awareness of sweat as a complementary tool for standard analytical diagnosis.
Processing, Properties, Modifications, and Environmental Impact of Nanocellulose/Biopolymer Composites: A Review
Authors: Aigaje Elizabeth , Riofrio Ariel , Baykara Haci
Published: February 2023

The increasing concerns about plastic pollution and climate change have encouraged research into bioderived and biodegradable materials. Much attention has been focused on nanocellulose due to its abundance, biodegradability, and excellent mechanical properties. Nanocellulose-based biocomposites are a viable option to fabricate functional and sustainable materials for important engineering applications. This review addresses the most recent advances in composites, with a particular focus on biopolymer matrices such as starch, chitosan, polylactic acid, and polyvinyl alcohol. Additionally, the effects of the processing methods, the influence of additives, and the outturn of nanocellulose surface modification on the biocomposite’s properties are outlined in detail. Moreover, the change in the composites’ morphological, mechanical, and other physiochemical properties due to reinforcement loading is reviewed. Further, mechanical strength, thermal resistance, and the oxygen–water vapor barrier properties are enhanced with the incorporation of nanocellulose into biopolymer matrices. Furthermore, the life cycle assessment of nanocellulose and composites were considered to analyze their environmental profile. The sustainability of this alternative material is compared through different preparation routes and options.
Green Synthesis of Fe–Cu Bimetallic Supported on Alginate-Limestone Nanocomposite for the Removal of Drugs from Contaminated Water
Authors: Ahmed Inas A. , Hussein Hala. S. , ALOthman Zeid A. , ALanazi Abdullah G. , Alsaiari Norah Salem , Khalid Awais
Published: February 2023

In this study Fe–Cu supported on Alginate-limestone (Fe–Cu/Alg–LS) was prepared. The increase in surface area was the main motivation for the synthesis of ternary composites. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to examine the surface morphology, particle size, percentage of crystallinity, and elemental content of the resultant composite. Fe–Cu/Alg–LS was used as an adsorbent for the removal of drugs such as ciprofloxacin (CIP) and levofloxacin (LEV)from contaminated medium. The adsorption parameters were computed using kinetic and isotherm models. The maximum removal efficiency of CIP (20 ppm) and LEV (10 ppm) was found to be 97.3% and 100%, respectively. The optimal conditions were pH 6 and 7 for CIP and LEV, optimum contact time 45, 40 min for CIP and LEV, and temperature of 303 K. The pseudo-second-order model, which confirmed the chemisorption properties of the process, was the most appropriate kinetic model among the ones used, and the Langmuir model, which was the most appropriate isotherm model. Moreover, the parameters of thermodynamics were also assessed. The results imply that the synthesized nanocomposites can be used to remove hazard materials from aqueous solutions.
Optical, Thermal, and Electrical Characterization of Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone/Carboxymethyl Cellulose Blend Scattered by Tungsten-Trioxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Alharbi Khadijah , Alharbi Walaa , El-Morsy M. , Farea M. , Menazea A.
Published: February 2023

The polymeric material polyvinyl pyrrolidine/carboxymethyl cellulose (PVP/CMC) was mixed with different quantities of tungsten-trioxide nanoparticles (WO3 NPs). The samples were created using the casting method and Pulsed Laser Ablation (PLA). The manufactured samples were analyzed by utilizing various methods. The halo peak of the PVP/CMC was located at 19.65°, confirming its semi-crystalline nature, as shown in the XRD analysis. FT-IR spectra of pure PVP/CMC composite and PVP/CMC composite incorporated with various contents of WO3 obtained a shift in band locations and change in intensity. Optical band gap was calculated via UV–Vis spectra, which decreased when increasing the laser-ablation time. Thermogravimetric analyses (TGA) curves showed that samples’ thermal stability had improved. The frequency-dependent composite films were used to determine AC conductivity of the generated films. When increasing the content of tungsten-trioxide nanoparticles, both (ε′) and (ε′′) increased. The incorporation of tungsten trioxide enhanced the ionic conductivity of PVP/CMC/WO3 nano-composite to a maximum of 10−8 S/c. It is expected that these studies will have a significant impact on several utilizations, such as energy storage, polymer organic semiconductors, and polymer solar cells.
Effects of Vinyl Functionalized Silica Particles on Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Liquid Silicone Rubber Nanocomposites
Authors: Zhang Yulong , Liu Wei , Zhou Qiang , Meng Yiting , Zhong Ye , Xu Jing , Xiao Chuan , Zhang Guangpu , Zhang Yanan
Published: February 2023

It is very important to develop a new method of preparing high-performance liquid silicone rubber-reinforcing filler. Herein, the hydrophilic surface of silica (SiO2) particles was modified by a vinyl silazane coupling agent to prepare a new type of hydrophobic reinforcing filler. The structures and properties of modified SiO2 particles were confirmed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS), specific surface area and particle size distribution and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), the results of which demonstrated that the aggregation of hydrophobic particles is greatly reduced. Additionally, the effects of the vinyl-modified SiO2 particle (f-SiO2) content on the dispersibility, rheology, and thermal and mechanical properties of liquid silicone rubber (SR) composites were studied for application toward high-performance SR matrix. The results showed that the f-SiO2/SR composites possessed low viscosity and higher thermal stability, conductivity, and mechanical strength than of SiO2/SR composites. We believe that this study will provide ideas for the preparation of high-performance liquid silicone rubber with low viscosity.
Kinetic Analysis of Pyrolysis Reaction of Hydrogen-Containing Low Rank Coals Based on Thermogravimetric Method
Authors: Mi Qiyuan , Li Bin , Li Yifan , Ma Yue , Shi Ruimeng
Published: February 2023

Based on the combined technology of thermogravimetric analysis-mass spectrometry (TG-MS), the non isothermal kinetic of two low rank coals with high hydrogen content and the release characteristics of H2 in volatiles were explored. The effect of coal species and coal particle size on pyrolysis was studied. The CR (Coats-Redfern) method and the DAEM (Distributed activation energy model) method were used to construct the pyrolysis kinetic model by dividing temperature stages, and the results showed that the mechanisms of pyrolysis process of lower rank coals were mainly 3-D diffusion (G-B) and Growth of nucleation (Avrami-Erofeev, n = 1/3). The use of the DAEM method made up for the shortcomings of the CR method in calculating the activation energy, and the analysis of coal pyrolysis kinetics was more comprehensive. The higher the volatile content the coal contained, the lower activation energy the pyrolysis process would require. The larger the particle size of the coal was, the higher activation energy the pyrolysis process would need. The release law of H2 in low rank coal during the pyrolysis process was analyzed by mass spectrometry, and results were presented: the first peak occurs at 500 °C and the second at 750 °C, which was mainly generated by the condensation and dehydrogenation reactions of aromatic compounds.
Synthesis of ZnO Nanorods at Very Low Temperatures Using Ultrasonically Pre-Treated Growth Solution
Authors: Wahid Khairul Anuar , Rahim Irfan Abdul , Safri Syafiqah Nur Azrie , Ariffin Ahmad Hamdan
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates how the pre-treatment of the growth solution with ultrasonic energy affects the annealing temperatures and the growth temperatures of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods. The ultrasonic pre-treatment of the growth solution resulted in the successful growth of ZnO nanorods at a very low annealing temperature of 40 °C. The size and density of ZnO nanorods were found to increase proportionally with the increasing duration of pre-ultrasonic treatment, as indicated by characterisations performed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). At an annealing temperature of 40 °C, coupled with ultrasonic waves, the SEM results showed that ZnO nanorods’ length and diameter increased by 37 and 25%. A similar pattern was also observed at an annealing temperature of 60 and 80 °C, where the length and diameter of ZnO nanorods increased. In addition, the conductivity and acidity of the aqueous solution that had been sonicated were measured. The results showed that solution conductivity and acidity increased as the ultrasonic treatment continued for longer periods. After 3 min of sonication, the final conductivity and acidity of the solutions were found to be 9164 µS/cm and 6.64, respectively. The results also indicated that the ultrasonic pre-treatment of the growth solution increased the zinc nutrient concentration, which would affect the formation of ZnO nanorods. In addition to the ultrasonic effect, the annealing temperature influenced the active nucleation sites essential to the ZnO nanorods’ expansion.
Bilateral Matching Decision Making of Partners of Manufacturing Enterprises Based on BMIHFIBPT Integration Methods: Evaluation Criteria of Organizational Quality-Specific Immunity
Authors: Liu Qiang , Sun Hongyu , He Yao
Published: February 2023

This study aims to examine how the bilateral matching decision making of manufacturing enterprises that are seeking partners in the manufacturing supply chain can be improved by taking into consideration evaluation criteria for organizational quality-specific immunity. This study constructs an evaluation indicator system to measure organizational quality-specific immunity based on immune theory. The system’s evaluation criteria are based on the key components of organizational quality-specific immunity. We also construct bilateral matching evaluation and decision-making models using interval-valued hesitant fuzzy information and bidirectional projection technology (BMIHFIBPT). The interval-valued bilateral fuzzy bidirectional projection technology is applied to solve a combination satisfaction and matching optimization model. Empirical analysis is carried out to assess both the supply and demand sides of representative manufacturing enterprises in the manufacturing supply chain, match the main supply and demand bodies of two subjects, and help manufacturing enterprises select the optimal cooperation partners. The empirical analysis results indicate that the bilateral matching evaluation and decision-making models based on BMIHFIBPT can overcome the lack of information to some extent and help solve interval-valued hesitant fuzzy decision-making problems. In turn, the models can provide a basis for manufacturing enterprises to effectively select the best cooperation partners and conduct bilateral matching decision making in the manufacturing supply chain area that supports organizational quality-specific immunity.
Automotive Supply Chain Disruption Risk Management: A Visualization Analysis Based on Bibliometric
Authors: Huang Kai , Wang Jian , Zhang Jinxin
Published: February 2023

The automobile industry is the pillar industry of the national economy. The good operation of the automobile supply chain is conducive to the sustainable development of the economy and social economy. In recent years, the popular research of automotive supply chain disruption risk management has been widely of concern by both business and academic practitioners. It is observed that most of the literature has focused only on a particular journal or field; there is a distinct lack of comprehensive bibliometric review of two decades, of research on automotive supply chain disruption risk management. This paper delivers a comprehensive bibliometric analysis that provides a better understanding not previously fully evaluated by earlier studies in the field of automotive supply chain disruption risk management. We used the 866 journal article during the period between 2000 and 2022 from the WOS database as sample data. Highlights research topics and trends, key features, developments, and potential research areas for future research. The research problems we solved are as follows: (1) Over time, how does the research in the field of automotive supply chain disruption risk management progress? (2) Which research areas and trends are getting the most attention in the field of automotive supply chain disruption risk management? (i) to recognize the scholarly production; (ii) the most productive authors; (iii) the most productive organization; (iv) the most cited articles; and (v) the most productive countries. (3) What is the research direction of automotive supply chain disruption risk management in the future? Also discusses the shortcomings of literature and bibliometric analysis. These findings provide a potential road map for researchers who intend to engage in research in this field.