bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive Value of Repeated Jump Testing on Nomination Status in Professional and under 19 Soccer Players
Authors: Papadakis Zacharias , Panoutsakopoulos Vassilios , Kollias Iraklis A.
Published: October 2022

Soccer clubs invest time and money in multidimensional identification practices, but the field implementation is still problematic. The repeated vertical jump test (RVJ), as an alternative to the monodimensional vertical jump, may offer similar prognostic value. Therefore, the prognostic validity of 15 RVJ within professional (PRO, n = 24) and under 19 years old (U19, n = 20) Greek male soccer players was examined. T-test, binomial logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic for prognostic validity of anthropometric and performance values in predicting PRO status were applied using Jamovi version 2.3.3.0. Significant group differences presented in body height and mass, body mass index (BMI), maximum and average jump height, and relative jump power. The predicting model was significant (x2(2) = 17.12, p < 0.001). Height and BMI were positive predictors of the PRO status (b = 21.66, p = 0.008 and b = 0.94, p = 0.014, respectively). The model was 73% accurate, 75% specific, and 71% sensitive, with excellent area under the curve. The RVJ test demonstrated outstanding discriminating prognostic validity. Until the applicability of the multidimensional models in predicting future player status is further established, field practitioners may use the simplistic RVJ testing to predict future status among male soccer players.
The Effect of Health Literacy Intervention on Patients with Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ran Xue , Chen Yalan , Jiang Kui , Shi Yaqin
Published: October 2022

Relevant studies published between January 2010 and June 2021 were identified through relevant databases, including the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE) database of Web of Science, PubMed, and Embase, in order to assess the effect of health literacy (HL) intervention on patients with diabetes. A total of 21 articles were eligible. The results showed that: (1) this review involved different HL assessment tools, most of which were self-designed scales and assessment tools focused on measuring functional HL. (2) The differences in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (weighted mean difference [WMD] = −0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.94, −0.62) and medication adherence (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 1.85, 95% CI: 0.19, 3.52) between the HL intervention group and the usual care group were statistically significant. There was no significant improvement in systolic blood pressure (SMD = −0.05, 95% CI: −0.34, 0.25). Furthermore, this review reported that self-efficacy (SMD = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.65, 1.04) was increased, and the level of HL was improved. In the assessments of risk of bias, 90% of the studies were classified as medium. The quality of the evidence of medication adherence was very low, and the reliability of the conclusions was not enough to confirm the effect of HL.
Palliative Care, Intimacy, and Sexual Expression in the Older Adult Residential Care Context: “Living until You Don’t”
Authors: Cook Catherine , Henrickson Mark , Schouten Vanessa
Published: October 2022

Commonly, frail older adults move to residential care, a liminal space that is their home, sometimes a place of death, and a workplace. Residential facilities typically espouse person-centred values, which are variably interpreted. A critical approach to person-centred care that focuses on social citizenship begins to address issues endemic in diminishing opportunities for intimacy in the end-of-life residential context: risk-averse policies; limited education; ageism; and environments designed for staff convenience. A person-centred approach to residents’ expressions of intimacy and sexuality can be supported throughout end-of-life care. The present study utilised a constructionist methodology to investigate meanings associated with intimacy in the palliative and end-of-life care context. There were 77 participants, including residents, family members and staff, from 35 residential facilities. Analysis identified four key themes: care home ethos and intimacy; everyday touch as intimacy; ephemeral intimacy; and intimacy mediated by the built environment. Residents’ expressions of intimacy and sexuality are supported in facilities where clinical leaders provide a role-model for a commitment to social citizenship. Ageism, restrictive policies, care-rationing, functional care, and environmental hindrances contribute to limited intimacy and social death. Clinical leaders have a pivotal role in ensuring person-centred care through policies and practice that support residents’ intimate reciprocity.
Migrant Women’s Health and Safety: Why Do Ethiopian Women Choose Irregular Migration to the Middle East for Domestic Work?
Authors: Shewamene Zewdneh , Zimmerman Cathy , Hailu Eyasu , Negeri Lemi , Erulkar Annabel , Anderson Elizabeth , Lo Yuki , Jackson Orla , Busza Joanna
Published: October 2022

Background: Low-wage labour migration is an increasing determinant of global health, associated with risks of exploitation, abuse, and unsafe conditions. Despite efforts to prevent irregular migration and initiatives to warn individuals of the risks of trafficking, many migrants still opt for irregular channels, particularly women seeking jobs as domestic workers. Ethiopia is one of the largest source countries for female migrants entering the domestic labour market in the Middle East. This qualitative study explored migration decision making by Ethiopian women traveling to the Middle East for domestic labour, focusing on the use of irregular channels. Methods: We conducted semistructured interviews with policy stakeholders, migration recruiters, and returnee domestic workers. Results: We identified three main themes that help explain decision making by female migrants and their communities. First, women were not always clear whether they were using legally approved processes, particularly because of the range of individuals involved in arranging migration plans. Second, irregular migration was seen to be quicker and easier than regular migration procedures. Third, study participants believed the risks between irregular and regular migration were similar. Conclusion: Our study highlights challenges associated with antitrafficking initiatives that discourage irregular migration and suggests new perspectives to address the health risks linked to labour migration.
Determination of Hydroxy Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Human Urine Using Automated Microextraction by Packed Sorbent and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: García-García Samuel , Matilla-González Héctor , Peña Javier , Nogal Sánchez Miguel del , Casas-Ferreira Ana María , Pérez Pavón José Luis
Published: October 2022

A fast methodology for the determination of monohydroxy polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in human urine using a fully automated microextraction by packed sorbent coupled to a gas chromatograph–mass spectrometer is reported. Sample preparation requires simple hydrolysis, centrifugation, filtration, and dilution. The method does not require a derivatization step prior to analysis with gas chromatography and allows the measurement of up to three samples per hour after hydrolysis. Quantitation is carried out by a one-point standard addition allowing the determination of 6 analytes with good limits of detection (10.1–39.6 ng L−1 in water and 0.5–19.4 µg L−1 in urine), accuracy (88–110%) and precision (2.1–23.4% in water and 5.1–19.0% in urine) values. This method has been successfully applied to the analysis of six urine samples (three from smoker and three from non-smoker subjects), finding significant differences between both types of samples. Results were similar to those found in the literature for similar samples, which proves the applicability of the methodology.
Development of an Artificial Intelligence Model for Analyzing the Relationship between Imaging Features and Glucocorticoid Sensitivity in Idiopathic Interstitial Pneumonia
Authors: Jiang Ling , Li Meijiao , Jiang Han , Tao Liyuan , Yang Wei , Yuan Huishu , He Bei
Published: October 2022

High-resolution CT (HRCT) imaging features of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) patients are related to glucocorticoid sensitivity. This study aimed to develop an artificial intelligence model to assess glucocorticoid efficacy according to the HRCT imaging features of IIP. The medical records and chest HRCT images of 150 patients with IIP were analyzed retrospectively. The U-net framework was used to create a model for recognizing different imaging features, including ground glass opacities, reticulations, honeycombing, and consolidations. Then, the area ratio of those imaging features was calculated automatically. Forty-five patients were treated with glucocorticoids, and according to the drug efficacy, they were divided into a glucocorticoid-sensitive group and a glucocorticoid-insensitive group. Models assessing the correlation between imaging features and glucocorticoid sensitivity were established using the k-nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithm. The total accuracy (ACC) and mean intersection over union (mIoU) of the U-net model were 0.9755 and 0.4296, respectively. Out of the 45 patients treated with glucocorticoids, 34 and 11 were placed in the glucocorticoid-sensitive and glucocorticoid-insensitive groups, respectively. The KNN-based model had an accuracy of 0.82. An artificial intelligence model was successfully developed for recognizing different imaging features of IIP and a preliminary model for assessing the correlation between imaging features and glucocorticoid sensitivity in IIP patients was established.
WNK1–OSR1 Signaling Regulates Angiogenesis-Mediated Metastasis towards Developing a Combinatorial Anti-Cancer Strategy
Authors: Hou Chia-Ying , Ma Chung-Yung , Lin Yu-Ju , Huang Chou-Long , Wang Horng-Dar , Yuh Chiou-Hwa
Published: October 2022

Lysine-deficient protein kinase-1 (WNK1) is critical for both embryonic angiogenesis and tumor-induced angiogenesis. However, the downstream effectors of WNK1 during these processes remain ambiguous. In this study, we identified that oxidative stress responsive 1b (osr1b) is upregulated in endothelial cells in both embryonic and tumor-induced angiogenesis in zebrafish, accompanied by downregulation of protein phosphatase 2A (pp2a) subunit ppp2r1bb. In addition, wnk1a and osr1b are upregulated in two liver cancer transgenic fish models: [tert x p53−/−] and [HBx,src,p53−/−,RPIA], while ppp2r1bb is downregulated in [tert x p53−/−]. Furthermore, using HUVEC endothelial cells co-cultured with HepG2 hepatoma cells, we confirmed that WNK1 plays a critical role in the induction of hepatoma cell migration in both endothelial cells and hepatoma cells. Moreover, overexpression of OSR1 can rescue the reduced cell migration caused by shWNK1 knockdown in HUVEC cells, indicating OSR1 is downstream of WNK1 in endothelial cells promoting hepatoma cell migration. Overexpression of PPP2R1A can rescue the increased cell migration caused by WNK1 overexpression in HepG2, indicating that PPP2R1A is a downstream effector in hepatoma. The combinatorial treatment with WNK1 inhibitor (WNK463) and OSR1 inhibitor (Rafoxanide) plus oligo-fucoidan via oral gavage to feed [HBx,src,p53−/−,RPIA] transgenic fish exhibits much more significant anticancer efficacy than Regorafenib for advanced HCC. Importantly, oligo-fucoidan can reduce the cell senescence marker-IL-1β expression. Furthermore, oligo-fucoidan reduces the increased cell senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity in tert transgenic fish treated with WNK1-OSR1 inhibitors. Our results reveal the WNK1–OSR1–PPP2R1A axis plays a critical role in both endothelial and hepatoma cells during tumor-induced angiogenesis promoting cancer cell migration. By in vitro and in vivo experiments, we further uncover the molecular mechanisms of WNK1 and its downstream effectors during tumor-induced angiogenesis. Targeting WNK1–OSR1-mediated anti-angiogenesis and anti-cancer activity, the undesired inflammation response caused by inhibiting WNK1–OSR1 can be attenuated by the combination therapy with oligo-fucoidan and may improve the efficacy.
Toward Real Real-Space Refinement of Atomic Models
Authors: Urzhumtsev Alexandre G. , Lunin Vladimir Y.
Published: October 2022

High-quality atomic models providing structural information are the results of their refinement versus diffraction data (reciprocal-space refinement), or versus experimental or experimentally based maps (real-space refinement). A proper real-space refinement can be achieved by comparing such a map with a map calculated from the atomic model. Similar to density distributions, the maps of a limited and even inhomogeneous resolution can also be calculated as sums of terms, known as atomic images, which are three-dimensional peaky functions surrounded by Fourier ripples. These atomic images and, consequently, the maps for the respective models, can be expressed analytically as functions of coordinates, atomic displacement parameters, and the local resolution. This work discusses the practical feasibility of such calculation for the real-space refinement of macromolecular atomic models.
Sodium Alginate—Natural Microencapsulation Material of Polymeric Microparticles
Authors: Frent Olimpia , Vicas Laura , Duteanu Narcis , Morgovan Claudia , Jurca Tunde , Pallag Annamaria , Muresan Mariana , Filip Sanda , Lucaciu Roxana-Liana , Marian Eleonora
Published: October 2022

From the multitude of materials currently available on the market that can be used in the development of microparticles, sodium alginate has become one of the most studied natural anionic polymers that can be included in controlled-release pharmaceutical systems alongside other polymers due to its low cost, low toxicity, biocompatibility, biodegradability and gelatinous die-forming capacity in the presence of Ca2+ ions. In this review, we have shown that through coacervation, the particulate systems for the dispensing of drugs consisting of natural polymers are nontoxic, allowing the repeated administration of medicinal substances and the protection of better the medicinal substances from degradation, which can increase the capture capacity of the drug and extend its release from the pharmaceutical form.
Role of STAR and SCP2/SCPx in the Transport of Cholesterol and Other Lipids
Authors: Galano Melanie , Venugopal Sathvika , Papadopoulos Vassilios
Published: October 2022

Cholesterol is a lipid molecule essential for several key cellular processes including steroidogenesis. As such, the trafficking and distribution of cholesterol is tightly regulated by various pathways that include vesicular and non-vesicular mechanisms. One non-vesicular mechanism is the binding of cholesterol to cholesterol transport proteins, which facilitate the movement of cholesterol between cellular membranes. Classic examples of cholesterol transport proteins are the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR; STARD1), which facilitates cholesterol transport for acute steroidogenesis in mitochondria, and sterol carrier protein 2/sterol carrier protein-x (SCP2/SCPx), which are non-specific lipid transfer proteins involved in the transport and metabolism of many lipids including cholesterol between several cellular compartments. This review discusses the roles of STAR and SCP2/SCPx in cholesterol transport as model cholesterol transport proteins, as well as more recent findings that support the role of these proteins in the transport and/or metabolism of other lipids.
Effect of Sequential Thermal Aging and Water Immersion on Moisture Kinetics and SBS Strength of Wet Layup Carbon/Epoxy Composites
Authors: Karbhari Vistasp M. , Hong SoonKook
Published: October 2022

This paper presents results of specific cases of sequential exposure of wet layup ambient cured carbon/epoxy composites to thermal aging and immersion in deionized water. Thermal aging is conducted at temperatures between 66 °C and 260 °C for periods of time up to 72 h whereas immersion is up to 72 weeks. Effects are characterized in terms of moisture kinetics using a two-stage diffusion model, and through short beam shear (SBS) strength. The response is characterized by a competition between the mechanisms of postcure, which results in increased polymerization and increases in SBS strength and glass transition temperature; and thermally induced microcracking and polymer degradation as well as moisture-induced plasticization and hydrolysis accompanied by fiber-matrix debonding, which results in deterioration. Thermal aging by itself is not seen to negatively impact SBS strength until the highest temperatures of exposure are considered in the investigation. However, the subsequent immersion in deionized water is seen to have a greater deteriorative effect with the period of post-thermal aging immersion being the dominant deteriorative factor.
Exploration of Optical, Redox, and Catalytic Properties of Vanadia-Mayenite Nanocomposites
Authors: Shuvarakova Ekaterina I. , Ilyina Ekaterina V. , Stoyanovskii Vladimir O. , Veselov Grigory B. , Bedilo Alexander F. , Vedyagin Aleksey A.
Published: October 2022

The present paper continues the exploration of the physicochemical and catalytic properties of vanadia-mayenite composites. The samples were prepared by an impregnation of calcium aluminate Ca12Al14O33 (mayenite, C12A7) with a solution of vanadium precursor. Pure mayenite and V/C12A7 nanocomposites were characterized by Raman and diffuse reflectance UV–Vis spectroscopies. The reducibility of the samples was examined in temperature-programmed reduction experiments performed in a hydrogen atmosphere. The catalytic performance of vanadium-containing systems was studied in the non-oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane. As found, the low-loaded sample (5%V/C12A7 sample) contains vanadium predominantly in the form of Ca3(VO4)2, while for the 10%V/C12A7 sample, two types of calcium vanadates (Ca2V2O7 and Ca3(VO4)2) are registered. The presence of these phases defines the spectroscopic characteristics and the redox properties of nanocomposites. Both the samples, 5%V/C12A7 and 10%V/C12A7, exhibit comparable catalytic activity, which is mainly connected with the amount of the Ca3(VO4)2 phase. The uniqueness of the studied catalysts is their excellent tolerance toward coke formation under the reaction conditions.
Indium Recovery by Adsorption on MgFe2O4 Adsorbents
Authors: Ciocărlie Loredana , Negrea Adina , Ciopec Mihaela , Duteanu Narcis , Negrea Petru , Ianasi Paula , Ianasi Catalin , Nemes Nicoleta Sorina
Published: October 2022

Indium and its compounds have many industrial applications and are widely used in the manufacture of liquid crystal displays, semiconductors, low temperature soldering, and infrared photodetectors. Indium does not have its own minerals in the Earth’s crust, and most commonly, indium is associated with the ores of zinc, lead, copper and tin. Therefore, it must be recovered as a by-product from other metallurgical processes or from secondary raw materials. The aim of this study is to investigate the adsorption properties for recovering indium from aqueous solutions using iron–magnesium composite (MgFe2O4). In addition, the results show that the material offers very efficient desorption in 15% HCl solution, being used for 10 adsorption–desorption cycle test. These results provide a simple and effective process for recovering indium. Present study was focuses on the synthesis and characterization of the material by physico-chemical methods such as: X-ray diffraction, FT-IR spectroscopy, followed by the adsorption tests. The XRD indicates that the MgFe2O4 phase was obtained, and the crystallite size was about 8 nm. New prepared adsorbent materials have a point of zero charge of 9.2. Studies have been performed to determine the influence of pH, initial indium solution concentration, material/solution contact time and temperature on the adsorption capacity of the material. Adsorption mechanism was established by kinetic, thermodynamic and equilibrium studies. At equilibrium a maximum adsorption capacity of 46.4 mg/g has been obtained. From kinetic and thermodynamic studies was proved that the studied adsorption process is homogeneous, spontaneous, endothermic and temperature dependent. Based on Weber and Morris model, we can conclude that the In (III) ions takes place at the MgFe2O4/In (III) solution–material interface.
The Influence of Textile Substrates on the Performance of Textronic RFID Transponders
Authors: Jankowski-Mihułowicz Piotr , Węglarski Mariusz , Wilczkiewicz Bartłomiej , Chamera Mateusz , Laskowski Grzegorz
Published: October 2022

Recent advances in the development of innovative textronic products are often related to the implementation of radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology. Such devices contain components of wireless telecommunications systems, in which radiofrequency circuits should be designed taking into account not only the frequency band or destined application, but also the dielectric properties of the materials. As is known from the theory of RFID systems, the dielectric permittivity and loss angle of the substrates significantly affect the performance of RFID transponders. Therefore, the knowledge on the variability of these parameters is highly important in the context of developing new solutions in textronic devices with the RFID interface. According to the plan of studies, at the beginning, the comprehensive characterization and determination of the dielectric parameters of various types of textile substrates were carried out. On this basis, the influence of fabrics on the performance of textronic RFID (RFIDtex) tags was characterized with numerical calculations. As the RFIDtex transponders proposed by the authors in the patent PL231291 have an outstanding design in which the antenna and the chip are located on physically separated substrates and are galvanically isolated, the special means had to be implemented when creating a numerical model. On the other hand, the great advantage of the developed construction was confirmed. Since the impedance at the chip’s terminals is primarily determined by the coupling system, the selected fabrics have relatively low impact on the efficiency of the RFIDtex transponder. Such an effect is impossible to achieve with classical designs of passive or semi-passive transponders. The correctness of the simulations was verified on the exemplary demonstrators, in threshold and rotation measurements performed at the laboratory stand.
Concrete Performance Attenuation of Mix Nano-SiO2 and Nano-CaCO3 under High Temperature: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Syamsunur Deprizon , Wei Li , Ahmed Memon Zubair , Surol Salihah , Md Yusoff Nur Izzi
Published: October 2022

Fire and extreme heat environmental changes can have an impact on concrete performance, and as climate change increases, new concrete structures are being developed. Nano-silica and nano-calcium carbonate have shown excellent performances in modifying concrete due to their large specific surface areas. This review describes the changes in concrete modified with nano-silica (NS) and nano-calcium carbonate (NC), which accelerate the hydration reaction with the cementitious materials to produce more C-S-H, resulting in a denser microstructure and improved mechanical properties and durability of the concrete. The mechanical property decay and visualization of deformation of mixed NS and NC concrete were tested by exposure to high temperatures to investigate the practical application of mixed composite nanomaterials (NC+NS) to concrete. The nano-modified concrete had better overall properties and was heated at 200 °C, 400 °C, 600 °C and 800 °C to relatively improve the mechanical properties of the nano concrete structures. The review concluded that high temperatures of 800 °C to 1000 °C severely damaged the structure of the concrete, reducing the mechanical properties by around 60%, and the dense nano concrete structures were more susceptible to cracking and damage. The high temperature resistance of NS and NC-modified nano concrete was relatively higher than that of normal concrete, with NC concrete being more resistant to damage at high temperatures than the NS samples.
TEM Investigation of Asymmetric Deposition-Driven Crystalline-to-Amorphous Transition in Silicon Nanowires
Authors: Zang Yuan , Li Lianbi , Hu Jichao , Li Lei , Li Zelong , Li Zebin , Feng Song , Zhang Guoqing , Xia Caijuan , Pu Hongbin
Published: October 2022

Controlling the shape and internal strain of nanowires (NWs) is critical for their safe and reliable use and for the exploration of novel functionalities of nanodevices. In this work, transmission electron microscopy was employed to examine bent Si NWs prepared by asymmetric electron-beam evaporation. The asymmetric deposition of Cr caused the formation of nanosized amorphous-Si domains; the non-crystallinity of the Si NWs was controlled by the bending radius. No other intermediate crystalline phase was present during the crystalline-to-amorphous transition, indicating a direct phase transition from the original crystalline phase to the amorphous phase. Moreover, amorphous microstructures caused by compressive stress, such as amorphous Cr domains and boxes, were also observed in the asymmetric Cr layer used to induce bending, and the local non-crystallinity of Cr was lower than that of Si under the same bending radius.
Post-Molding Shrinkage, Structure and Properties of Cellular Injection-Molded Polypropylene
Authors: Kościuszko Artur , Rojewski Mateusz , Nowinka Bartosz , Patalas Filip
Published: October 2022

Cellular injection molding is a common method of modifying polymer materials aimed at reducing the sink marks on moldings’ surfaces while reducing their weight. However, the dimensions of polypropylene (PP) samples as well as their mechanical properties after the injection molding process change as a result of re-crystallization. Knowledge of dimensional accuracy and awareness of the change in mechanical properties of products during conditioning are very important aspects in the polymer processing industry. The aim of this study was to assess the changes in the value of processing shrinkage and the size of the sink marks of porous PP moldings depending on the degree of porosity and the time since they were removed from the injection mold cavity. Studies of the structure and mechanical properties of moldings were carried out after several conditioning time intervals. The maximum conditioning time of samples was 840 h at 23 °C. Based on the analysis of the test results, it was found that the cellular injection molding process with the holding phase reduces the nucleation of gas pores, which results in a smaller reduction of sink marks than in the case of samples produced without the holding phase. However, PP moldings with a porosity degree equal to 8.9% were characterized by a higher shrinkage value after 1 h of conditioning, compared to moldings with porosity equal to 3.6%. The extension of the conditioning time also resulted in an increase in the value of linear shrinkage and the properties determined during tensile tests of solid and porous samples. Furthermore, in the case of samples with the highest porosity, the impact strength was reduced by about 30% after 840 h of conditioning compared to results obtained after 1 h.
Growth and Liquid-Phase Exfoliation of GaSe1−xSx Crystals
Authors: Aitzhanov Madi , Guseinov Nazim , Nemkayeva Renata , Sagidolda Yerulan , Tolepov Zhandos , Prikhodko Oleg , Mukhametkarimov Yerzhan
Published: October 2022

In recent years, interest in the liquid-phase exfoliation (LPE) of layered crystals has been growing due to the efficiency and scalability of the method, as well as the wide range of practical applications of the obtained dispersions based on two-dimensional flakes. In this paper, we present a comparative study of as-grown and liquid-phase exfoliated GaSe1−xSx flakes. Bulk GaSe1−xSx crystals with x ~ 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1 were synthesized by melting stoichiometric amounts of gallium, selenium, and sulfur particles in evacuated ampoules. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the crystal structure does not change considerably after LPE, while the analysis of the Raman spectra revealed that, after liquid-phase processing in IPA, an additional peak associated with amorphous selenium is observed in selenium-rich GaSeS compounds. Nevertheless, the direct and indirect transition energies determined from the Kubelka-Munk function for LPE crystals correlate with the band gap of the as-grown bulk GaSeS crystals. This finding is also confirmed by comparison with the data on the positions of the photoluminescence peak.
Strength Matching Method of Face Gear Pair Considering Service Space Limitation to Improve Strength Performance
Authors: Chu Xiaomeng , Zeng Hong , Wang Yanzhong , Huang Yizhan
Published: October 2022

To further improve maneuverability and passability, new heavy-duty vehicles place higher demands on the service space and strength performance of transmission systems. The new surface gear transmission stands out for its unique technical advantages, but how to reduce the volume as much as possible under the premise of meeting the strength performance remains difficult to research. In the past, the method of improving the strength performance of the face gear pair has usually been by increasing the parameters and optimizing the tooth profile. These methods are not suitable for use considering space constraints and guaranteeing center-to-center distances. To overcome the contradiction between small volume and large load, this work proposes a strength matching method to improve the face gear pair’s strength performance in limited service space. First, according to the meshing principle of the face gear pair, the displacement coefficient is considered in the configuration process of the face gear pair, and the mathematical model of the face gear pair is established. Second, to ensure the effective contact area of the face gear pair, a mathematical model of the reverse contact trace avoiding the undercutting and pointing area is established. The proposed method is validated by electrolytic machining and transmission performance tests. This research solves application problems, such as the strength mismatch of the face gear transmission system, and lays the foundation for the engineering application of face gear.
Dietary Hempseed Decreases Femur Maximum Load in a Young Female C57BL/6 Mouse Model but Does Not Influence Bone Mineral Density or Micro-Architecture
Authors: Sparks Chandler A. , Streff Hailey M. , Williams Derrick W. , Blanton Cynthia A. , Gabaldón Annette M.
Published: October 2022

Numerous seed and seed extract diets have been investigated as a means of combating age-related bone loss, with many findings suggesting that the seeds/extracts confer positive effects on bone. Recently, there has been rising interest in the use of dietary hempseed in human and animal diets due to a perceived health benefit from the seed. Despite this, there has been a lack of research investigating the physiologic effects of dietary hempseed on bone. Previous studies have suggested that hempseed may enhance bone strength. However, a complete understanding of the effects of hempseed on bone mineralization, bone micro-architecture, and bone biomechanical properties is lacking. Using a young and developing female C57BL/6 mouse model, we aimed to fill these gaps in knowledge. From five to twenty-nine weeks of age, the mice were raised on either a control (0%), 50 g/kg (5%), or 150 g/kg (15%) hempseed diet (n = 8 per group). It was found that the diet did not influence the bone mineral density or micro-architecture of either the right femur or L5 vertebrae. Furthermore, it did not influence the stiffness, yield load, post-yield displacement, or work-to-fracture of the right femur. Interestingly, it reduced the maximum load of the right femur in the 15% hempseed group compared to the control group. This finding suggests that a hempseed-enriched diet provides no benefit to bone in young, developing C57BL/6 mice and may even reduce bone strength.
Moringa oleifera Improves MAFLD by Inducing Epigenetic Modifications
Authors: Monraz-Méndez C. Alejandra , Escutia-Gutiérrez Rebeca , Rodriguez-Sanabria Jonathan Samael , Galicia-Moreno Marina , Monroy-Ramírez Hugo Christian , Sánchez-Orozco Laura , García-Bañuelos Jesus , De la Rosa-Bibiano Ricardo , Santos Arturo , Armendáriz-Borunda Juan , Sandoval-Rodríguez Ana
Published: October 2022

Background and aims. Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) encompasses a spectrum of diseases from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Here, we investigated the hepatoprotective role of Moringa oleifera aqueous extract on hepatic miRNAs, genes and protein expression, as well as histological and biochemical parameters in an experimental model of NASH. Methods. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed with a high fat diet (HFD, 60% lipids, 42 gr/L sugar in water) for 16 weeks. Moringa extract was administered via gavage during the final 8 weeks. Insulin Tolerance Test (ITT) and HOMA-IR were calculated. Serum levels of insulin, resistin, leptin and PAI-1 and hepatic expression of miR-21a-5p, miR-103-3p, miR-122-5p, miR-34a-5p and SIRT1, AMPKα and SREBP1c protein were evaluated. Alpha-SMA immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin-eosin, Masson’s trichrome and sirius red staining were made. Hepatic transcriptome was analyzed using microarrays. Results. Animals treated with Moringa extract improved ITT and decreased SREBP1c hepatic protein, while SIRT1 increased. Hepatic expression of miR-21a-5p, miR-103-3p and miR-122-5p, miR34a-5p was downregulated. Hepatic histologic analysis showed in Moringa group (HF + MO) a significant decrease in inflammatory nodules, macro steatosis, fibrosis, collagen and αSMA reactivity. Analysis of hepatic transcriptome showed down expression of mRNAs implicated in DNA response to damage, endoplasmic reticulum stress, lipid biosynthesis and insulin resistance. Moringa reduced insulin resistance, de novo lipogenesis, hepatic inflammation and ER stress. Conclusions. Moringa prevented progression of liver damage in a model of NASH and improved biochemical, histological and hepatic expression of genes and miRNAs implicated in MAFLD/NASH development.
Proposition of a New POLA Index to Assess the Immunomodulatory Properties of the Diet and Its Relationship with the Gut Microbiota, Using the Example of the Incidence of COVID-19 in a Group of People without Comorbidities
Authors: Jagielski Paweł , Wnęk Dominika , Łuszczki Edyta , Bolesławska Izabela , Micek Agnieszka , Kozioł-Kozakowska Agnieszka , Piórecka Beata , Koczur Karolina , Jankowska Katarzyna , Gaździńska Agata , Turczyńska Marta , Kawalec Paweł
Published: October 2022

A rise in the incidence of infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has sparked the search for protective strategies against the new pathogen. It is known that individual food components can interact with different immune cells, modulating the immune response of the body. The aim of this study was to develop an index assessing the immunomodulatory potential of diet (POLA index) and to test its utility for the prediction of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in a group of healthy young people following a traditional or vegetarian diet. Data on body composition, anthropometric measurements, physical activity, dietary intake, and gut microbiota were obtained from 95 adults (mean age, 34.66 ± 5.76 years). There was a strong correlation between the dietary inflammatory index and the POLA index (r = 0.90; p < 0.0001). Based on Cohen’s kappa statistic, there was a good agreement in qualitative interpretation between the two indices (kappa = 0.61; p < 0.0001). People on a diet with beneficial immunomodulatory effects had a lower risk of COVID-19 of approximately 80%, as compared with those on a diet with highly unbeneficial immunomodulatory effects. In daily practice, the POLA index might serve as a useful tool for dietitians to identify individuals whose diet is deficient in ingredients for optimal immune system function and change their dietary behavior to ensure optimal immune function that reduces the risk of infection.
Relationship between Maternal Vitamin D Levels and Adverse Outcomes
Authors: Zhang Heng , Wang Shumin , Tuo Lingjin , Zhai Qixiao , Cui Jingjing , Chen Daozhen , Xu Dexiang
Published: October 2022

Vitamin D (VD), a fat-soluble vitamin, has a variety of functions that are important for growth and development, including regulation of cell differentiation and apoptosis, immune system development, and brain development. As such, VD status during pregnancy is critical for maternal health, fetal skeletal growth, and optimal pregnancy outcomes. Studies have confirmed that adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia, low birth weight, neonatal hypocalcemia, poor postnatal growth, skeletal fragility, and increased incidence of autoimmune diseases, can be associated with low VD levels during pregnancy and infancy. Thus, there is growing interest in the role of VD during pregnancy. This review summarizes the potential adverse health outcomes of maternal VD status during pregnancy for both mother and offspring (gestational diabetes mellitus, hypertensive gestational hypertension, intrauterine growth restriction, miscarriage, stillbirth, and preterm birth) and discusses the underlying mechanisms (regulation of cytokine pathways, immune system processing, internal secretion, placental function, etc.) of VD in regulating each of the outcomes. This review aims to provide a basis for public health intervention strategies to reduce the incidence of adverse pregnancies.
Dietary and Nutritional Profiles among Brazilian Adolescents
Authors: Vale Diôgo , Lyra Clélia , Dantas Natalie , Andrade Maria , Oliveira Angelo
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: The present study analyzed the prevalence of dietary and nutritional profiles among Brazilian adolescents and their associations with social determinants of health. (2) Methods: A population-based survey was administered to 16,409 adolescents assessed by the 2015 National School Health Survey. A multivariate model of dietary and nutritional profiles was estimated from correspondence analysis. (3) Results: The dietary and nutritional profiles more prevalent among Brazilian adolescents were “lower nutritional risk dietary pattern and eutrophic” (42.6%), “lower nutritional risk dietary pattern and overweight” (6.8%), and “higher nutritional risk dietary pattern and overweight” (6.0%). Healthier profiles were associated with less urbanized territories, health-promoting behaviors, and families with worse material circumstances. The less healthy profiles were associated with more urbanized environments, health risk behaviors, and families with better material circumstances. (4) Brazilian adolescents have different dietary and nutritional profiles that are characterized by sociopolitical and economic contexts, family material and school circumstances, and the behavioral and psychosocial health factors of the individuals. All of this points to the social determination of these health problems among adolescents in Brazil.
Association of Infant Feeding Indicators and Infant Feeding Practices with Coexisting Forms of Malnutrition in Children under Six Months of Age
Authors: Khaliq Asif , Wraith Darren , Miller Yvette , Nambiar Smita
Published: October 2022

Breastmilk is the only recommended source of nutrition for infants below six months of age. However, a significant proportion of children are either on supplemental breastfeeding (SBF) or weaned due to the early introduction of solid/semi-solid/soft food and liquids (SSF) before six months of age. There is good evidence that exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in infants below six months of age protects them from preventable illnesses, including malnutrition. The relationship between infant feeding practices and coexisting forms of malnutrition (CFMs) has not yet been explored. This study examined the association of different feeding indicators (continuation of breastfeeding, predominant feeding, and SSF) and feeding practices (EBF, SBF, and complete weaning) with CFM in infants aged below six months in Pakistan. National and regional datasets for Pakistan from the last ten years were retrieved from the Demographic Health Surveys (DHS) and UNICEF data repositories. In Pakistan, 34.5% of infants have some form of malnutrition. Among malnourished infants, 44.7% (~15.4% of the total sample) had a CFM. Continuation of breastfeeding was observed in more than 85% of infants, but less than a quarter were on EBF, and the rest were either SBF (65.4%) or weaned infants (13.7%). Compared to EBF, complete weaning increased the odds of coexistence of underweight with wasting, and underweight with both wasting and stunting by 1.96 (1.12–3.47) and 2.25 (1.16–4.36), respectively. Overall, breastfed children had lower odds of various forms of CFM (compared to non-breastfed), except for the coexistence of stunting with overweight/obesity. Continuation of any breastfeeding protected infants in Pakistan from various types of CFM during the first six months of life.
Targeted Anti-Biofilm Therapy: Dissecting Targets in the Biofilm Life Cycle
Authors: Bu Fanqiang , Liu Mengnan , Xie Zixu , Chen Xinyu , Li Guofeng , Wang Xing
Published: October 2022

Biofilm is a crucial virulence factor for microorganisms that causes chronic infection. After biofilm formation, the bacteria present improve drug tolerance and multifactorial defense mechanisms, which impose significant challenges for the use of antimicrobials. This indicates the urgent need for new targeted technologies and emerging therapeutic strategies. In this review, we focus on the current biofilm-targeting strategies and those under development, including targeting persistent cells, quorum quenching, and phage therapy. We emphasize biofilm-targeting technologies that are supported by blocking the biofilm life cycle, providing a theoretical basis for design of targeting technology that disrupts the biofilm and promotes practical application of antibacterial materials.
Advances in 177Lu-PSMA and 225Ac-PSMA Radionuclide Therapy for Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ling Sui Wai , de Blois Erik , Hooijman Eline , van der Veldt Astrid , Brabander Tessa
Published: October 2022

For patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), the survival benefit of classic treatment options with chemotherapy and drugs targeting androgen signaling is limited. Therefore, beta and alpha radionuclide therapy (RNT) have emerged as novel treatment options for patients with mCRPC. Radioligands target the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) epitopes, which are upregulated up to a thousand times more in prostate cancer cells compared to the cells in normal tissues. For this reason, PSMA is an excellent target for both imaging and therapy. Over the past years, many studies have investigated the treatment effects of lutetium-177 labeled PSMA (177Lu-PSMA) and actinium-225 labeled PSMA (225Ac-PSMA) RNT in patients with mCRPC. While promising results have been achieved, this field is still in development. In this review, we have summarized and discussed the clinical data of 177Lu-PSMA and 225Ac-PSMA RNT in patients with mCRPC.
Blood–Brain Barrier Solute Carrier Transporters and Motor Neuron Disease
Authors: Latif Sana , Kang Young-Sook
Published: October 2022

Defective solute carrier (SLC) transporters are responsible for neurotransmitter dysregulation, resulting in neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We provided the role and kinetic parameters of transporters such as ASCTs, Taut, LAT1, CAT1, MCTs, OCTNs, CHT, and CTL1, which are mainly responsible for the transport of essential nutrients, acidic, and basic drugs in blood–brain barrier (BBB) and motor neuron disease. The affinity for LAT1 was higher in the BBB than in the ALS model cell line, whereas the capacity was higher in the NSC-34 cell lines than in the BBB. Affinity for MCTs was lower in the BBB than in the NSC-34 cell lines. CHT in BBB showed two affinity sites, whereas no expression was observed in ALS cell lines. CTL1 was the main transporter for choline in ALS cell lines. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) analysis of [3H]choline uptake indicated that choline is sensitive in TR-BBB cells, whereas amiloride is most sensitive in ALS cell lines. Knowledge of the transport systems in the BBB and motor neurons will help to deliver drugs to the brain and develop the therapeutic strategy for treating CNS and neurological diseases.
Quality by Design Guided Development of Polymeric Nanospheres of Terbinafine Hydrochloride for Topical Treatment of Onychomycosis Using a Nano-Gel Formulation
Authors: Puri Vinam , Froelich Anna , Shah Parinbhai , Pringle Shernelle , Chen Kevin , Michniak-Kohn Bozena
Published: October 2022

Superficial fungal diseases of the skin and nails are an increasingly common occurrence globally, requiring effective topical treatment to avoid systemic adverse effects. Polymeric nanoparticles have demonstrated sustained and effective drug delivery in a variety of topical formulations. The aim of this project was to develop polymeric antifungal nanospheres containing terbinafine hydrochloride (TBH) to be loaded into a hydrogel formulation for topical nail drug delivery. A quality by design (QbD) approach was used to achieve optimized particles with the desired quality target product profile (QTPP). Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) at 2% w/v and a drug to polymer ratio of 1:4, together with a robust set of processes and material attributes, resulted in nanoparticles of 108.7 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.63, 57.43% recovery, and other desirable characteristics such as zeta potential (ZP), particle shape, aggregation, etc. The nanospheres were incorporated into a carbomer-based gel, and the delivery of TBH through this formulation was evaluated by means of in vitro drug release testing (IVRT) and ex vivo nail permeation study. The gel containing the TBH nanospheres demonstrated a slower and controlled drug release profile compared with the control gel, in addition to a more efficient delivery into the nail. These antifungal nanospheres can be utilized for topical therapy of a multitude of superficial fungal infections.
Antimicrobial Peptide–Polymer Conjugates
Authors: Riool Martijn , Patrulea Viorica , Monteiro Cláudia
Published: October 2022

The global health threat imposed by the fast spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is directing research not only towards the discovery of new antibacterial molecules but also to the repurposing of old drugs, while improving their efficiency and safety [...]
The Influence of Syringic Acid and Erucic Acid on the Antioxidant Properties of Natural Rubber: Experimental and Molecular Simulation Investigations
Authors: Chen Shihao , Wang Xiujuan , Wang Xueting , Zheng Wei , He Shaojian , Song Meng , Wang Hongzhen
Published: October 2022

In this work, the influence of syringic acid (SA) and erucic acid (EA) on the oxidation resistance of natural rubber (NR) was investigated by combining experimental and computational methods. The antioxidant activities of SA and EA were predicted by calculating the enthalpy of bond dissociation (BDE), the anti-migration ability of antioxidants (AOs) in the rubber matrix by calculating the mean square displacement (MSD), and the effect of antioxidants on oxygen barrier properties of rubber materials by calculating the permeability coefficient (P). The predicted result is that EA has a better comprehensive performance than SA. The DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) test and mechanical properties test demonstrated the results predicted by the simulations. Both SA and EA can protect natural rubber, while EA has a better comprehensive effect.