bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Citric Acid as a Potential Prostate Cancer Biomarker Determined in Various Biological Samples
Authors: Buszewska-Forajta Magdalena , Monedeiro Fernanda , Gołębiowski Adrian , Adamczyk Przemysław , Buszewski Bogusław
Published: March 2022

Despite numerous studies, the molecular mechanism of prostate cancer development is still unknown. Recent investigations indicated that citric acid and lipids—with a special emphasis on fatty acids, steroids and hormones (ex. prolactin)—play a significant role in prostate cancer development and progression. However, citric acid is assumed to be a potential biomarker of prostate cancer, due to which, the diagnosis at an early stage of the disease could be possible. For this reason, the main goal of this study is to determine the citric acid concentration in three different matrices. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time for citric acid to be determined in three different matrices (tissue, urine and blood). Samples were collected from patients diagnosed with prostate cancer and from a selected control group (individuals with benign prostatic hyperplasia). The analyses were performed using the rapid fluorometric test. The obtained results were correlated with both the histopathological data (the Gleason scale as well as the Classification of Malignant Tumors (pTNM) staging scale) and the biochemical data (the values of the following factors: prostate specific antigen, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, total cholesterol, creatinine and prolactin) using chemometric methods. For tissue samples, the results indicated a decreased level of citric acid in the case of prostate cancer. The analyte average concentrations in serum and urine appeared to be corresponding and superior in the positive cohort. This trend was statistically significant in the case of urinary citric acid. Moreover, a significant negative correlation was demonstrated between the concentration of citric acid and the tumor stage. A negative correlation between the total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein and prolactin was particularly prominent in cancer cases. Conversely, a negative association between low-density lipoprotein and prolactin levels was observed solely in the control group. On the basis of the results, one may assume the influence of hormones, particularly prolactin, on the development of prostate cancer. The present research allowed us to verify the possibility of using citric acid as a potential biomarker for prostate cancer.
Simple and Label-Free Detection of Carboxylesterase and Its Inhibitors Using a Liquid Crystal Droplet Sensing Platform
Authors: Nguyen Duy-Khiem , Jang Chang-Hyun
Published: March 2022

In this study, we developed a liquid crystal (LC) droplet-based sensing platform for the detection of carboxylesterase (CES) and its inhibitors. The LC droplet patterns in contact with myristoylcholine chloride (Myr) exhibited dark cross appearances, corresponding to homeotropic anchoring of the LCs at the aqueous/LC interface. However, in the presence of CES, Myr was hydrolyzed; therefore, the optical images of the LC patterns changed to bright fan-shaped textures, corresponding to a planar orientation of LCs at the interface. In contrast, the presence of CES inhibitors, such as benzil, inhibits the hydrolysis of Myr; as a result, the LC patterns exhibit dark cross textures. This principle led to the development of an LC droplet-based sensing method with a detection limit of 2.8 U/L and 10 μM, for CES detection and its inhibitor, respectively. The developed biosensor not only enables simple and label-free detection of CES but also shows high promise for the detection of CES inhibitors.
Research Progress on Coating of Sensitive Materials for Micro-Hotplate Gas Sensor
Authors: Yuan Zhenyu , Yang Fan , Meng Fanli
Published: March 2022

Micro-hotplate gas sensors are widely used in air quality monitoring, identification of hazardous chemicals, human health monitoring, and other fields due to their advantages of small size, low power consumption, excellent consistency, and fast response speed. The micro-hotplate gas sensor comprises a micro-hotplate and a gas-sensitive material layer. The micro-hotplate is responsible for providing temperature conditions for the sensor to work. The gas-sensitive material layer is responsible for the redox reaction with the gas molecules to be measured, causing the resistance value to change. The gas-sensitive material film with high stability, fantastic adhesion, and amazing uniformity is prepared on the surface of the micro-hotplate to realize the reliable assembly of the gas-sensitive material and the micro-hotplate, which can improve the response speed, response value, and selectivity. This paper first introduces the classification and structural characteristics of micro-hotplates. Then the assembly process and characteristics of various gas-sensing materials and micro-hotplates are summarized. Finally, the assembly method of the gas-sensing material and the micro-hotplate prospects.
Petrogenesis and Tectonic Setting of the Madeng Dacite, SW Sanjiang Indosinian Orogen: Evidence from Zircon U-Pb-Hf Isotopes, and Whole-Rock Geochemistry and Sr-Nd Isotopes
Authors: Huang Gang , Zhuang Liang-Liang , Yang Ya-Qi , Tian Li-Dan , Wu Wei , Liu Jin-Hong
Published: March 2022

The Sanjiang Indosinian orogen, located in the eastern part of the Paleo-Tethys tectonic domain, is a critical region to study the Paleo-Tethyan Ocean evolution. Middle Permian–Late Triassic magmatic rocks are widespread in the Deqin–Weixi–Madeng area of southwestern (SW) Sanjiang Indosinian orogen, yet their petrogenesis and tectonic setting remain disputed. In this study, LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb age and Hf isotopes, and whole-rock elemental and Sr-Nd isotope geochemistry of Madeng dacite were studied. The Madeng dacite was dated at ca. 241.7 and 243.4 Ma. The samples had high Al2O3 (12.91 to 14.39 wt.%) but low MgO (0.62 to 1.76 wt.%) contents, and were alkali-rich (Na2O + K2O = 6.97 to 8.66 wt.%) with A/CNK > 1.1, strongly resembling peraluminous S-type granites. The rocks were enriched in Rb, K, Th, U and LREE, but depleted in Ba, Sr, Nb, Ta, P and Ti, and showed obvious negative Eu anomalies, suggesting fractionation of Ti-bearing minerals (e.g., rutile and ilmenite) and plagioclase. The dacite had an initial 87Sr/86Sr value of 0.705698 to 0.710277, and negative εNd(t) (−11.28 to −10.64) and εHf(t) (−13.99 to −8.60), indicating a continental meta-sedimentary source. Their average Nb/Ta (12.24) and Th/U (4.65) were also consistent with continental crust. According to the lithological assemblage and geochemical features, we propose that the Deqin–Weixi–Madeng area intermediate-felsic magmatism was generated in a subduction-related tectonic setting.
The Problem of the Formation of Boehmite and Gibbsite in Bauxite-Bearing Lateritic Profiles
Authors: Mamedov Vladimir , Boeva Natalia , Makarova Marina , Shipilova Elena , Melnikov Philimon
Published: March 2022

The study of a large amount of factual material about the formation conditions of gibbsite or boehmite and their mutual transformations in lateritic bauxites allowed us to solve the problem of boehmite formation and its spatial and genetic relationship to gibbsite. The boehmite formation occurred only during the formation of sedimentary-lateritic bauxites from alluvial and lacustrine sediments that underwent bleaching and resilification at the stage of sediment flooding, as well as on bleached bedrock under sedimentary-lateritic bauxites. The most intense boehmite formation occurred at a depth of 20–30 m from the surface and was accompanied by an alumina input, which was realized here in the form of boehmite along with the gibbsite formation due to the hydrolytic decomposition of kaolinite and partially due to the input alumina. In the upper profiles, the recrystallization of bauxites occurs with the replacement of dissolving boehmite with gibbsite, with a decrease in the total Al2O3 content and an increase in the amount of crystallization water. In classic lateritic bauxites, the boehmite content is highly insignificant; that is, its formation in them practically does not occur or is very much inhibited.
Volatile Compound Characterization of Coffee (Coffea arabica) Processed at Different Fermentation Times Using SPME–GC–MS
Authors: Galarza Gustavo , Figueroa Jorge G.
Published: March 2022

Coffee is a beverage that is consumed due to its flavor and fragrance. In this investigation, we demonstrated the relations between different dry fermentation processes of coffee (aerobic, anaerobic, and atmosphere modified with CO2) and fermentation times (0, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h), with pH, acidity, and seven volatile marker compounds of coffee. Volatile compounds were extracted by solid phase microextraction (SPME) and an analysis was performed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). A significant effect (p < 0.05) between the fermentation time and a decrease in pH was demonstrated, as well as between the fermentation time and increasing acidity (p < 0.05). Acetic acid was positively correlated with the fermentation time, unlike 2-methylpyrazine, 2-furanmethanol, 2,6-dimethylpyrazine, and 5-methylfurfural, which were negatively correlated with the fermentation time. The aerobic and anaerobic fermentation treatments obtained high affinity with the seven volatile marker compounds analyzed due to the optimal environment for the development of the microorganisms that acted in this process. In contrast, in the fermentation process in an atmosphere modified with CO2, a negative affinity with the seven volatile compounds was evidenced, because this gas inactivated the development of microorganisms and inhibited their activity in the fermentation process.
Skin Cleansing without or with Compromise: Soaps and Syndets
Authors: Mijaljica Dalibor , Spada Fabrizio , Harrison Ian P.
Published: March 2022

Products designed to cleanse the skin commonly do so through surfactant action, which leads to the lowering of the surface tension of the skin to facilitate the removal of dirt from its surface. Skin cleansers generally come in one of two types: soap-based and synthetic detergents, or syndets. While the latter can effectively maintain the native skin structure, function and integrity, the former tends to negatively affect the skin by causing barrier disruption, lipid dissolution and pH alteration. Despite this, soap is still often preferred, possibly due to the negative connotations around anything that is not perceived as ‘natural’. It is, therefore, important that the science behind cleansers, especially those designed for the maintenance of healthy skin and the management of common skin conditions such as eczema, be understood by both formulators and end-users. Here, we carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of surfactant—the key ingredient(s) in skin cleansers—and provide insight into surfactants’ physicochemical properties, biological activity and potential effects. Fine-tuning of the complex characteristics of surfactants can successfully lead to an ‘optimal’ skin cleanser that can simultaneously be milder in nature, highly effective and beneficial, and offer minimal skin interference and environmental impact.
Manufacturing and Assessing the New Orally Disintegrating Tablets, Containing Nimodipine-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and Nimodipine-methyl-β-cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexes
Authors: Novac Marian , Musuc Adina Magdalena , Ozon Emma Adriana , Sarbu Iulian , Mitu Mirela Adriana , Rusu Adriana , Gheorghe Daniela , Petrescu Simona , Atkinson Irina , Lupuliasa Dumitru
Published: March 2022

The aim of the present study was to manufacture new orally disintegrating tablets containing nimodipine–hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and nimodipine–methyl-β-cyclodextrin inclusion complexes. For obtaining a better quality of the manufactured tablets, three methods of the preparation of inclusion complexes, in a 1:1 molar ratio, were used comparatively; namely, a solid-state kneading method and two liquid state coprecipitation and lyophilization techniques. The physical and chemical properties of the obtained inclusion complexes, as well as their physical mixtures, were investigated using Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analyses, and differential scanning calorimetry. The results showed that the lyophilization method can be successfully used for a better complexation. Finally, the formulation and precompression studies for tablets for oral dispersion, containing Nim–HP-β-CD and Nim–Me-β-CD inclusion complexes, were successfully assessed.
Olive Oil Traceability Studies Using Inorganic and Isotopic Signatures: A Review
Authors: Nasr Emna G. , Epova Ekaterina N. , Sebilo Mathieu , Larivière Dominic , Hammami Mohamed , Souissi Radhia , Abderrazak Houyem , Donard Olivier F. X.
Published: March 2022

The olive oil industry is subject to significant fraudulent practices that can lead to serious economic implications and even affect consumer health. Therefore, many analytical strategies have been developed for olive oil’s geographic authentication, including multi-elemental and isotopic analyses. In the first part of this review, the range of multi-elemental concentrations recorded in olive oil from the main olive oil-producing countries is discussed. The compiled data from the literature indicates that the concentrations of elements are in comparable ranges overall. They can be classified into three categories, with (1) Rb and Pb well below 1 µg kg−1; (2) elements such as As, B, Mn, Ni, and Sr ranging on average between 10 and 100 µg kg−1; and (3) elements including Cr, Fe, and Ca ranging between 100 to 10,000 µg kg−1. Various sample preparations, detection techniques, and statistical data treatments were reviewed and discussed. Results obtained through the selected analytical approaches have demonstrated a strong correlation between the multi-elemental composition of the oil and that of the soil in which the plant grew. The review next focused on the limits of olive oil authentication using the multi-elemental composition method. Finally, different methods based on isotopic signatures were compiled and critically assessed. Stable isotopes of light elements have provided acceptable segregation of oils from different origins for years already. More recently, the determination of stable isotopes of strontium has proven to be a reliable tool in determining the geographical origin of food products. The ratio 87Sr/86Sr is stable over time and directly related to soil geology; it merits further study and is likely to become part of the standard tool kit for olive oil origin determination, along with a combination of different isotopic approaches and multi-elemental composition.
Graphene-Oxide-Based Fluoro- and Chromo-Genic Materials and Their Applications
Authors: Zheng Xiaoxiao , Zhai Rongli , Zhang Zihao , Zhang Baoqing , Liu Jiangwei , Razaq Aamir , Ahmad Muhammad Ashfaq , Raza Rizwan , Saleem Muhammad , Rizwan Syed , Jafri Syed Hassan Mujtaba , Li Hu , Papadakis Raffaello
Published: March 2022

Composite materials and their applications constitute a hot field of research nowadays due to the fact that they comprise a combination of the unique properties of each component of which they consist. Very often, they exhibit better performance and properties compared to their combined building blocks. Graphene oxide (GO), as the most widely used derivative of graphene, has attracted widespread attention because of its excellent properties. Abundant oxygen-containing functional groups on GO can provide various reactive sites for chemical modification or functionalization of GO, which in turn can be used to develop novel GO-based composites. This review outlines the most recent advances in the field of novel dyes and pigments encompassing GO as a key ingredient or as an important cofactor. The interactions of graphene with other materials/compounds are highlighted. The special structure and unique properties of GO have a great effect on the performance of fabricated hybrid dyes and pigments by enhancing the color performance of dyes, the anticorrosion properties of pigments, the viscosity and rheology of inks, etc., which further expands the applications of dyes and pigments in dyeing, optical elements, solar-thermal energy storage, sensing, coatings, and microelectronics devices. Finally, challenges in the current development as well as the future prospects of GO-based dyes and pigments are also discussed. This review provides a reference for the further exploration of novel dyes and pigments.
Cocrystals of Praziquantel with Phenolic Acids: Discovery, Characterization, and Evaluation
Authors: Yang Shiying , Liu Qiwen , Ji Weiwen , An Qi , Song Junke , Xing Cheng , Yang Dezhi , Zhang Li , Lu Yang , Du Guanhua
Published: March 2022

Solvent-assisted grinding (SAG) and solution slow evaporation (SSE) methods are generally used for the preparation of cocrystals. However, even by using the same solvent, active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), and cocrystal coformer (CCF), the cocrystals prepared using the two methods above are sometimes inconsistent. In the present study, in the cocrystal synthesis of praziquantel (PRA) with polyhydroxy phenolic acid, including protocatechuic acid (PA), gallic acid (GA), and ferulic acid (FA), five different cocrystals were prepared using SAG and SSE. Three of the cocrystals prepared using the SAG method have the structural characteristics of carboxylic acid dimer, and two cocrystals prepared using the SSE method formed cocrystal solvates with the structural characteristics of carboxylic acid monomer. For phenolic acids containing only one phenolic hydroxyl group (ferulic acid), when preparing cocrystals with PRA by using SAG and SSE, the same product was obtained. In addition, the weak molecular interactions that were observed in the cocrystal are explained at the molecular level by using theoretical calculation methods. Finally, the in vitro solubility of cocrystals without crystal solvents and in vivo bioavailability of PRA-FA were evaluated to further understand the influence on the physicochemical properties of API for the introduction of CCF.
Structure-Based Molecular Networking for the Discovery of Anti-HBV Compounds from Saussurea lappa (Decne.) C.B Clarke
Authors: Wu Tao , Yan Xin-Jian , Yang Tian-Rong , Wang Yun-Fen , He Jing-Yi , Feng Yang , Su Li-Hua , Chen Hao , Xu Min
Published: March 2022

It is a crucial to find target compounds in natural product research. This study presents a concept of structure-guided isolation to find candidate active molecules from herbs. We establish a process of anti-viral sesquiterpene networking. An analysis of the networking suggested that new anti-HBV sesquiterpene may be attributable to eudesmane-, guaiane-, cadinane-, germacane- and bisabolane-type sesquiterpenes. In order to evaluate the efficiency of the structure-based molecular networking, ethanol extract of Saussurea lappa (Decne.) C.B Clarke was investigated, which led to the isolation of two guaiane-type (1 and 14), ten eudesmane-type (2–5 and 8–13), two chain (6 and 7) and one germacrane-type (15) sesquiterpenes, including seven new ones, lappaterpenes A–G (1–7), which are reported on herein. The absolute configurations of the new compounds were established by coupling constants, calculated ECD and ROESY correlations, as well as comparisons of optical rotation values with those of known compounds. The absolute configuration of compound 2 was further confirmed by X-ray diffraction. Compounds 1–15 were evaluated for their potency against hepatitis B virus. Compounds 4, 6, 7 and 9 showed effect on HBsAg with inhibition ratios of more than 40% at 30 μM concentrations. Compounds 14 and 15 inhibited HBsAg secretion with the values of IC50 0.73 ± 0.18 and 1.43 ± 0.54 μM, respectively. Structure-based molecular networking inspired the discovery of target compounds.
Scalable Production of High-Quality Silver Nanowires via Continuous-Flow Droplet Synthesis
Authors: Yu Jianming , Yang Lijie , Jiang Jing , Dong Xunyi , Cui Zhiyang , Wang Chao , Lu Zhenda
Published: March 2022

Silver nanowires (Ag NWs) have shown great potential in next-generation flexible displays, due to their superior electronic, optical, and mechanical properties. However, as with most nanomaterials, a limited production capacity and poor reproduction quality, based on the batch reaction, largely hinder their application. Here, we applied continuous-flow synthesis for the scalable and high-quality production of Ag NWs, and built a pilot-scale line for kilogram-level per day production. In addition, we found that trace quantities of water could generate sufficient vapor as a spacer under high temperature to efficiently prevent the back-flow or mixed-flow of the reaction solution. With an optimized synthetic formula, a mass production of pure Ag NWs of 36.5 g/h was achieved by a multiple-channel, continuous-flow reactor.
Rheological and Thermal Conductivity Study of Two-Dimensional Molybdenum Disulfide-Based Ethylene Glycol Nanofluids for Heat Transfer Applications
Authors: Shah Syed Nadeem Abbas , Shahabuddin Syed , Khalid Mohammad , Mohd Sabri Mohd Faizul , Mohd Salleh Mohd Faiz , Muhamad Sarih Norazilawati , Rahman Saidur
Published: March 2022

The rheological behavior of two-dimensional (2D) MoS2-based ethylene glycol (EG) nanofluids (NFs) was investigated at low volume concentrations (0.005%, 0.0075%, and 0.01%) in a wide temperature range of 0–70 °C and at atmospheric pressure. A conventional two-step method was followed to prepare NFs at desired volume concentrations. Based on the control rotational (0.1–1000 s−1 shear rate) and oscillation (0.01–1000% strain) methods, the viscoelastic flow curves and thixotropic (3ITT (three interval thixotropic) and hysteresis loop) characteristics of NFs were examined. Shear flow behavior revealed a remarkable reduction (1.3~14.7%) in apparent dynamic viscosity, which showed concentration and temperature dependency. Such remarkable viscosity results were assigned to the change in activation energy of the ethylene glycol with the addition of MoS2. However, the nanofluids exhibited Newtonian behavior at all temperatures for concentrations below 0.01% between 10 and 1000 s−1. On the other hand, strain sweep (@1Hz) indicated the viscoelastic nature of NFs with yielding, which varied with concentration and temperature. Besides, 3ITT and hysteresis loop analysis was evident of non-thixotropic behavior of NFs. Among all tested concentrations, 0.005% outperformed at almost all targeted temperatures. At the same time, ~11% improvement in thermal conductivity can be considered advantageous on top of the improved rheological properties. In addition, viscosity enhancement and reduction mechanisms were also discussed.
Metamaterials and Metasurfaces: A Review from the Perspectives of Materials, Mechanisms and Advanced Metadevices
Authors: Ali Adnan , Mitra Anirban , Aïssa Brahim
Published: March 2022

Throughout human history, the control of light, electricity and heat has evolved to become the cornerstone of various innovations and developments in electrical and electromagnetic technologies. Wireless communications, laser and computer technologies have all been achieved by altering the way light and other energy forms act naturally and how to manage them in a controlled manner. At the nanoscale, to control light and heat, matured nanostructure fabrication techniques have been developed in the last two decades, and a wide range of groundbreaking processes have been achieved. Photonic crystals, nanolithography, plasmonics phenomena and nanoparticle manipulation are the main areas where these techniques have been applied successfully and led to an emergent material sciences branch known as metamaterials. Metamaterials and functional material development strategies are focused on the structures of the matter itself, which has led to unconventional and unique electromagnetic properties through the manipulation of light—and in a more general picture the electromagnetic waves—in widespread manner. Metamaterial’s nanostructures have precise shape, geometry, size, direction and arrangement. Such configurations are impacting the electromagnetic light waves to generate novel properties that are difficult or even impossible to obtain with natural materials. This review discusses these metamaterials and metasurfaces from the perspectives of materials, mechanisms and advanced metadevices in depth, with the aim to serve as a solid reference for future works in this exciting and rapidly emerging topic.
Improved Performance of NbOx Resistive Switching Memory by In-Situ N Doping
Authors: Xu Jing , Zhu Yuanyuan , Liu Yong , Wang Hongjun , Zou Zhaorui , Ma Hongyu , Wu Xianke , Xiong Rui
Published: March 2022

Valence change memory (VCM) attracts numerous attention in memory applications, due to its high stability and low energy consumption. However, owing to the low on/off ratio of VCM, increasing the difficulty of information identification hinders the development of memory applications. We prepared N-doped NbOx:N films (thickness = approximately 15 nm) by pulsed laser deposition at 200 °C. N-doping significantly improved the on/off ratio, retention time, and stability of the Pt/NbOx:N/Pt devices, thus improving the stability of data storage. The Pt/NbOx:N/Pt devices also achieved lower and centralized switching voltage distribution. The improved performance was mainly attributed to the formation of oxygen vacancy (VO) + 2N clusters, which greatly reduced the ionic conductivity and total energy of the system, thus increasing the on/off ratio and stability. Moreover, because of the presence of Vo + 2N clusters, the conductive filaments grew in more localized directions, which led to a concentrated distribution of SET and RESET voltages. Thus, in situ N-doping is a novel and effective approach to optimize device performances for better information storage and logic circuit applications.
Simulation and Experimental Study of the Multisized Silver Nanoparticles Sintering Process Based on Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Gu Mingfei , Liu Tingting , Xiao Xingzhi , Li Gang , Liao Wenhe
Published: March 2022

Multisized nanoparticles (MPs) are widely employed as electronic materials to form conductive patterns, benefitting from their excellent sintering properties and mechanical reliability. However, due to the lack of effective detection methods for the real-time sintering process, it is difficult to reveal the sintering behavior during the MPs sintering process. In this work, a molecular dynamics method is used to track the trajectory of silver atoms. The melting behavior of a single nanoparticle (SP) is first discussed. The structural evolution of equally sized nanoparticles (EPs) and unequally sized nanoparticles (UPs) during the sintering process is analyzed alongside morphology changes. It is proposed that the UPs sintering process benefits from the wetting behavior of small-sized nanoparticles on the surface of large-sized nanoparticles, and the sintering angle (θ) is proposed as an index to estimate the sintering result of UPs. Based on the works above, three basic sintering modes and one advanced sintering mode in the MP sintering process are analyzed emphatically in this paper, and the roles of different-sized nanoparticles in MPs are concluded from simulation and experimental results. This work provides theoretical support for conductive ink composition design and sintering process optimization.
Dispersion of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes into White Cement Mortars: The Effect of Concentration and Surfactants
Authors: Metaxa Zoi S. , Boutsioukou Spyridoula , Amenta Maria , Favvas Evangelos P. , Kourkoulis Stavros K. , Alexopoulos Nikolaos D.
Published: March 2022

Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) exhibit exceptional mechanical and electrical properties and can be used to improve the mechanical and piezoelectric properties of cement-based materials. In the present study, the effect of different MWCNT concentrations as well as different types of surfactants and a superplasticizer were examined to reinforce, at the nanoscale, a white cement mortar typically used for the restoration of monuments of cultural heritage. It was shown that sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (SDBS) and Triton X-100 surfactants slightly decreased the white cement mortars’ electrical resistivity (by an average of 10%), however, the mechanical properties were essentially decreased by an average of 60%. The most suitable dispersion agent for the MWCNTs proved to be the superplasticizer Ceresit CC198, and its optimal concentration was investigated for different MWCNT concentrations. Carboxylation of the MWCNT surface with nitric acid did not improve the mechanical performance of the white cement nanocomposites. The parametric experimental study showed that the optimum combination of 0.8 wt% of cement superplasticizer and 0.2 wt% of cement MWCNTs resulted in a 60% decrease in the electrical resistivity; additionally, the flexural and compressive strengths were both increased by approximately 25% and 10%, respectively.
Cardiometabolic and Nutritional Morbidities of a Large, Adult, PKU Cohort from Andalusia
Authors: Dios-Fuentes Elena , Gonzalo Marin Montserrat , Remón-Ruiz Pablo , Benitez Avila Rosa , Bueno Delgado Maria A , Blasco Alonso Javier , Doulatram Gamgaram Viyei Kishore , Olveira Gabriel , Soto-Moreno Alfonso , Venegas-Moreno Eva
Published: March 2022

The establishment of national neonatal screening systems has resulted in improved quality of life and life expectancy in patients with phenylketonuria (PKU). This has led to the development of multidisciplinary treatment units for adult patients with PKU. We present a retrospective descriptive study of a cohort of 90 adult patients (>16 years) with PKU under active follow-up in two reference centers in Andalusia. We analyzed disease severity, treatment type, demographic variables, cardiovascular risk factors, vitamin and hormone profiles, and bone metabolism. The median (interquartile range)age was 29 (23–38) years, 47 (52.2%) were women and 43 (47.8%) were men. Eighty (88.9%) had classical PKU, five (5.6%) moderate PKU, and five (5.6%) mild PKU. Diagnosis was by neonatal screening in 62 (68.9%) of the patients. The rest had late diagnosis. Treatment with sapropterin was given to 18 (20%) patients and diet and nutrition therapy to 72 (80%). There was adequate metabolic control according to Phe levels in 43 (47.78%) patients. Body mass index was 26.61 (22.7–31.1) kg/m2. Twenty-six (29.2%) patients had obesity, 7 (7.9%) hypertension, 2 (2.2%) type 2 diabetes, 26 (28.89%) dyslipidemia, 14 (15.6%) elevated total cholesterol, 9 (15.8%) decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and 16 (17.8%) hypertriglyceridemia. Seven (10.3%) patients had osteoporosis and 28 (41.17%) osteopenia. Twenty-six (30.6%) had vitamin D (25OH) deficiency and four (4.5%) vitamin B12 deficiency. Although we observed no differences with most vascular risk factors, we found a high prevalence of obesity in relation to the age of the cohort. A continued evaluation of comorbidities in these patients is therefore needed, despite adequate metabolic control.
Curcumin Enhances Fed-State Muscle Microvascular Perfusion but Not Leg Glucose Uptake in Older Adults
Authors: Deane Colleen S. , Din Ushnah S. U. , Sian Tanvir S. , Smith Ken , Gates Amanda , Lund Jonathan N. , Williams John P. , Rueda Ricardo , Pereira Suzette L. , Atherton Philip J. , Phillips Bethan E.
Published: March 2022

Therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing blood flow may combat the postprandial vascular and metabolic dysfunction that manifests with chronological ageing. We compared the effects of acute curcumin (1000 mg) coupled with an oral nutritional supplement (ONS, 7.5 g protein, 24 g carbohydrate and 6 g fat) versus a placebo and ONS (control) on cerebral and leg macrovascular blood flow, leg muscle microvascular blood flow, brachial artery endothelial function, and leg insulin and glucose responses in healthy older adults (n = 12, 50% male, 73 ± 1 year). Curcumin enhanced m. tibialis anterior microvascular blood volume (MBV) at 180 and 240 min following the ONS (baseline: 1.0 vs. 180 min: 1.08 ± 0.02, p = 0.01 vs. 240 min: 1.08 ± 0.03, p = 0.01), and MBV was significantly higher compared with the control at both time points (p < 0.05). MBV increased from baseline in the m. vastus lateralis at 240 min after the ONS in both groups (p < 0.05), and there were no significant differences between groups. Following the ONS, leg blood flow and leg vascular conductance increased, and leg vascular resistance decreased similarly in both conditions (p < 0.05). Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation and middle cerebral artery blood flow were unchanged in both conditions (p > 0.05). Similarly, the curcumin and control groups demonstrated comparable increases in glucose uptake and insulin in response to the ONS. Thus, acute curcumin supplementation enhanced ONS-induced increases in m. tibialis anterior MBV without potentiating m. vastus lateralis MBV, muscle glucose uptake, or systemic endothelial or macrovascular function in healthy older adults.
Associations of Calcium Intake and Calcium from Various Sources with Blood Lipids in a Population of Older Women and Men with High Calcium Intake
Authors: Papageorgiou Maria , Merminod Fanny , Ferrari Serge , Rizzoli René , Biver Emmanuel
Published: March 2022

Promoting calcium intake is a cornerstone for osteoporosis management. Some individuals limit dairy product consumption, a major calcium source, due to their high content in saturated fats and their perceived negative impact on lipid profiles. This study explored the associations of calcium from various sources with blood lipids in community-dwelling elderly (n = 717) from the GERICO cohort. Dietary calcium intake was assessed at several timepoints using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and calcium supplement use was recorded. Blood lipids were treated as categorical variables to distinguish those with normal and abnormal levels. Increasing total calcium intake was associated with lower risks for high total cholesterol (p = 0.038) and triglycerides (p = 0.007), and low HDL-cholesterol (p = 0.010). Dairy calcium (p = 0.031), especially calcium from milk (p = 0.044) and milk-based desserts (p = 0.039), i.e., low-fat (p = 0.022) and non-fermented (p = 0.005) dairy products, were associated with a lower risk of high total cholesterol. Greater calcium intakes from total dairies (p = 0.020), milk (p = 0.020) and non-fermented dairies (p = 0.027) were associated with a lower risk of hypertriglyceridemia. No association was observed between calcium from non-dairy sources, cheese or high-fat dairies and blood lipids. Increasing calcium through supplements was associated with lower risks for hypertriglyceridemia (p = 0.022) and low HDL-cholesterol (p = 0.001), but not after adjustments. Our results suggest that higher calcium intakes from dietary sources or supplements are not adversely associated with blood lipids in the elderly, whilst total, and particularly low-fat, dairy products are valuable calcium sources potentially related to favorable lipid profiles.
The Acute Effect of a Novel Miso-Type Sauce, Enhanced with a Carotenoid-Rich Extract from Fruit By-Products, on Postprandial Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Papagianni Olga , Delli Eleni , Vasila Melina-Eleni , Loukas Thomas , Magkoutis Athanasios , Dimou Charalampia , Karantonis Haralampos , Koutelidakis Antonios
Published: March 2022

Several fruit by-products may exert a beneficial role on oxidative stress and inflammation modulation, providing essential bioactive components, such as polyphenols and carotenoids. Recently, the potential bioactivity of miso has been reported. The aim of this dietary intervention–clinical study was to evaluate the acute effect of a novel, functional miso-type sauce based on legumes, on postprandial biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation. In this randomized, cross-over design, intervention–clinical trial, 14 healthy volunteers, aged 20–30 years old, consumed a rice meal rich in fat and carbohydrates (258 g), containing a legume-based sauce. After a 1-week washout period, the same subjects consumed the same meal, containing the novel fermented miso-type sauce, enhanced with 50% carotenoid-rich, fruit peel extract. Differences in postprandial total plasma antioxidant capacity according to the FRAP method, serum lipids, glucose, uric acid levels, and antithrombotic activity in platelet-rich plasma were evaluated before, 30 min, 1.5 h, and 3 h after consumption. The results showed that, in comparison to the control group, consumption of the novel sauce resulted in a significantly increased total plasma antioxidant capacity 3 h after consumption (p < 0.05). In addition, we observed a significant attenuation of triglycerides concentration increase in the last 1.5 h in the functional group (p < 0.05). A significant decrease in serum aggregation was found at 30 min and 3 h after functional sauce intake in comparison with the baseline (p < 0.05). Finally, LDL-cholesterol concentrations were significantly reduced 3 h after the functional meal consumption, in comparison with baseline values (p < 0.05). The remaining biomarkers did not show statistically significant differences (p > 0.05). Further investigation is needed in order to validate the current results.
Association of Amlodipine with the Risk of In-Hospital Death in Patients with COVID-19 and Hypertension: A Reanalysis on 184 COVID-19 Patients with Hypertension
Authors: Loas Gwenolé , Van de Borne Philippe , Darquennes Gil , Le Corre Pascal
Published: March 2022

Association between calcium channel blockers (CCBs) or functional inhibitors of acid sphingomyelinase (FIASMAs) use and decreased mortality in people with COVID-19 has been reported in recent studies. Since amlodipine is both a CCB and a FIASMA, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between chronic amlodipine use and the survival of people with hypertension infected with COVID-19. This retrospective cohort study used data extracted from the medical records of adult inpatients with hypertension and laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 between 1 March 2020 and 31 August 2020 with definite outcomes (discharged from hospital or deceased) from Erasme Hospital (Brussels, Belgium). We re-analyzed the data of the retrospective cohort study using only the 184 patients (103 males, 81 females) with a mean age of 69.54 years (SD = 14.6) with hypertension. The fifty-five participants (29.9%) receiving a chronic prescription of amlodipine were compared with the 129 patients who did not receive a chronic prescription of amlodipine. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to explore the relationships between mortality and sex, age, comorbidities, smoking, and amlodipine status. Out of the 184 participants, 132 (71.7%) survived and 52 (28.3%) died. The mortality rates were, respectively, 12.73% (n = 7) and 34.88% (n = 45) for the amlodipine and non-amlodipine groups. Multivariate logistic regression was significant (Chi square (5) = 29.11; p < 0.0001). Chronic kidney disease and malignant neoplasm were significant predictors as well as amlodipine status. For chronic kidney disease and malignant neoplasm, the odds ratio with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were, respectively, 2.16 (95% CI: 1.04–4.5; p = 0.039) and 2.46 (95% CI: 1.01–6.01; p = 0.047). For amlodipine status the odds ratio was 0.29 (95% CI: 0.11–0.74; p = 0.009). The result of the present study suggests that amlodipine may be associated with reduced mortality in people with hypertension infected with COVID-19. Further research and randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm the potential protective effect of amlodipine in people with hypertension infected with COVID-19.
Metformin Enhances TKI-Afatinib Cytotoxic Effect, Causing Downregulation of Glycolysis, Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition, and EGFR-Signaling Pathway Activation in Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Barrios-Bernal Pedro , Hernandez-Pedro Norma , Orozco-Morales Mario , Viedma-Rodríguez Rubí , Lucio-Lozada José , Avila-Moreno Federico , Cardona Andrés F. , Rosell Rafael , Arrieta Oscar
Published: March 2022

The combination of metformin and TKIs for non-small cell lung cancer has been proposed as a strategy to overcome resistance of neoplastic cells induced by several molecular mechanisms. This study sought to investigate the effects of a second generation TKI afatinib, metformin, or their combination on three adenocarcinoma lung cancer cell lines with different EGFRmutation status. A549, H1975, and HCC827 cell lines were treated with afatinib, metformin, and their combination for 72 h. Afterwards, several parameters were assessed including cytotoxicity, interactions, apoptosis, and EGFR protein levels at the cell membrane and several glycolytic, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), and EMT expression markers. All cell lines showed additive to synergic interactions for the induction of cytotoxicity caused by the tested combination, as well as an improved pro-apoptotic effect. This effect was accompanied by downregulation of glycolytic, EMT markers, a significant decrease in glucose uptake, extracellular lactate, and a tendency towards increased OXPHOS subunits expression. Interestingly, we observed a better response to the combined therapy in lung cancer cell lines A549 and H1975, which normally have low affinity for TKI treatment. Findings from this study suggest a sensitization to afatinib therapy by metformin in TKI-resistant lung cancer cells, as well as a reduction in cellular glycolytic phenotype.
Radiosynthesis and Preclinical Evaluation of Bispecific PSMA/FAP Heterodimers for Tumor Imaging
Authors: Hu Kongzhen , Li Li , Huang Yong , Ye Shimin , Zhong Jiawei , Yan Qingsong , Zhong Yuhua , Fu Lilan , Feng Pengju , Li Hongsheng
Published: March 2022

Due to tumor heterogeneity and complex tumor–stromal interactions in multicellular systems, the efficiency of monospecific tracers for tumor diagnosis and therapy is currently limited. In light of the evidence of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) overexpression in tumor cells and fibroblast activation protein (FAP) upregulation in the tumor stroma, heterodimer dual targeting PSMA and FAP may have the potential to improve tumor diagnosis. Herein, we described the radiosynthesis, in vitro characterization, and micro-PET/CT imaging of two novel 18F-labeled bispecific PSMA/FAP heterodimers. 18F-labeled heterodimers showed high specificity and affinity targeting to PSMA and FAP in vitro and in vivo. Compared with the monospecific tracers [18F]AlF-PSMA-BCH and [18F]FAPI-42, both 18F-labeled heterodimers exhibited better tumor uptake in tumor-bearing mice. Their favorable characterizations such as convenient synthesis, high tumor uptake, and favorable pharmacokinetic profile could lead to their future applications as bispecific radiotracers for clinical cancer imaging.
Multimodal In Vivo Imaging of Retinal and Choroidal Vascular Occlusion
Authors: Nguyen Van Phuc , Zhu Tianye , Henry Jessica , Zhang Wei , Wang Xueding , Paulus Yannis M.
Published: March 2022

Photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) is an emerging retinal imaging technique that can provide high spatial resolution and high contrast of chorioretinal vessels. PAM is compatible with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescence imaging, allowing for development of a multimodal imaging system that combines these imaging modalities into one. This study presents a non-invasive, label-free in vivo imaging of retinal and choroidal vascular occlusion using multimodal imaging system, including PAM and OCT. Both retinal vein occlusion (RVO) and choroidal vascular occlusion (CVO) were clearly identified selectively using a spectroscopic PAM imaging. RVO and CVO were created in six rabbits using laser photocoagulation. The dynamic changes of retinal vasculature were observed and evaluated using color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, OCT, and PAM. The position of RVO and CVO were imaged with different wavelengths ranging from 532 to 600 nm. The data shows that occluded vessels were clearly distinguished from the surrounding retinal vessels on the PAM images. This advanced imaging system is a promising technique for imaging retinal ischemia in preclinical disease models.
Low-Latency Optical Wireless Data-Center Networks Using Nanoseconds Semiconductor-Based Wavelength Selectors and Arrayed Waveguide Grating Router
Authors: Zhang Shaojuan , Xue Xuwei , Tangdiongga Eduward , Calabretta Nicola
Published: March 2022

In order to meet the massively increasing requirements of big-data applications, data centers (DCs) are key infrastructures to cope with the associated demands, such as high performance, easy scalability, low cabling complexity and low power consumption. Many research efforts have been dedicated to traditional wired data center networks (DCNs). However, DCNs’ static and rigid topology based on optical cables significantly limits their flexibility, scalability, and even reconfigurability. The limitations of this wired connection can be addressed with optical wireless technology, which avoids cable complexity problems while allowing dynamic adaption and fast reconfiguration. Here, we propose and investigate a novel optical wireless data-center network (OW-DCN) architecture based on nanoseconds semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA)-based wavelength selectors and arrayed waveguide grating router (AWGR) controlled by fast field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based switch schedulers. The full architecture, including the design, packet-switching strategy, contention solving methodology, and reconfiguration capability, is presented and demonstrated. Dynamic switch scheduling with a FPGA-based switch scheduler processing optical label and software-defined network (SDN)-based reconfiguration were experimentally confirmed. The proposed OW-DCN was also achieved with a power penalty of less than 2 dB power penalty at BER < 1 × 10−9 for a 50 Gb/s OOK transmission and packet-switching transmission.
Self-Photopolymerizable Hydrogel–Ceramic Composites with Scavenger Properties
Authors: Canillas Maria , de Lima Gabriel Goetten , de Sá Marcelo J. C. , Nugent Michael J. D. , Rodríguez Miguel A. , Devine Declan M.
Published: March 2022

The photocatalytic behaviours of semiconductive ceramic nanoparticles such as TiO2, ZnO, Fe2O3, and Fe3O4, have been extensively studied in photocatalysis and photopolymerization, due to their ability to produce radical species under ultraviolet–visible light, and even in dark conditions. In addition, in the form of microparticles, TiO2 and its Magnéli phases are capable of neutralizing radical species, and a heterogeneous catalytic process has been suggested to explain this property, as it is well known as scavenging activity. Thus, in this study, we demonstrate that these ceramic powders, in the form of microparticles, could be used as photoinitiators in UV polymerization in order to synthesize a hydrogel matrix. Them, embedded ceramic powders could be able to neutralize radical species of physiological media once implanted. The hydrogel matrix would regulate the exchange of free radicals in any media, while the ceramic particles would neutralize the reactive species. Therefore, in this work, the scavenger activities of TiO2, ZnO, Fe2O3, and Fe3O4 microparticles, along with their photoinitiation yield, were evaluated. After photopolymerization, the gel fraction and swelling behaviour were evaluated for each hydrogel produced with different ceramic initiators. Gel fractions were higher than 60%, exhibiting variation in their scavenging activity. Therefore, we demonstrate that ceramic photoinitiators of TiO2, ZnO, Fe2O3, and Fe3O4 can be used to fabricate implantable devices with scavenger properties in order to neutralize radical species involved in inflammatory processes and degenerative diseases.