bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Core-Shell Carbon Nanofibers@Ni(OH)2/NiO Composites for High-Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Fan Peizhi , Xu Lan
Published: November 2022

The application of transition metal oxides/hydroxides in energy storage has long been studied by researchers. In this paper, the core-shell CNFs@Ni(OH)2/NiO composite electrodes were prepared by calcining carbon nanofibers (CNFs) coated with Ni(OH)2 under an N2 atmosphere, in which NiO was generated by the thermal decomposition of Ni(OH)2. After low-temperature carbonization at 200 °C, 250 °C and 300 °C for 1 h, Ni(OH)2 or/and NiO existed on the surface of CNFs to form the core-shell composite CNFs@Ni(OH)2/NiO-X (X = 200, 250, 300), in which CNFs@Ni(OH)2/NiO-250 had the optimal electrochemical properties due to the coexistence of Ni(OH)2 and NiO. Its specific capacitance could reach 695 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, and it still had 74% capacitance retention and 88% coulomb efficiency after 2000 cycles at 5 A g−1. Additionally, the asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) assembled from CNFs@Ni(OH)2/NiO-250 had excellent energy storage performance with a maximum power density of 4000 W kg−1 and a maximum functional capacity density of 16.56 Wh kg−1.
Ultrafine-Grained Zn–Mg–Sr Alloy Synthesized by Mechanical Alloying and Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Nečas David , Kubásek Jiří , Pinc Jan , Marek Ivo , Donik Črtomir , Paulin Irena , Vojtěch Dalibor
Published: November 2022

Zinc materials are considered promising candidates for bioabsorbable medical devices used for the fixation of broken bones or stents. Materials for these applications must meet high mechanical property requirements. One of the ways to fulfil these demands is related to microstructure refinement, particularly the decrease in grain size. In the present work, we combine two powder metallurgy techniques (mechanical alloying—MA, and spark plasma sintering—SPS) to prepare Zn–1Mg–0.5Sr nanograin material. The microstructure of compacted material consisted of Zn grains and particles of Mg2Zn11 intermetallic phases from 100 to 500 nm in size, which resulted in high values of hardness and a compressive strength equal to 86 HV1 and 327 MPa, respectively. In this relation, the combination of the suggested techniques provides an innovative way to form extremely fine microstructures without significant coarsening during powder compaction at increased temperatures.
Fe Ions-Doped TiO2 Aerogels as Catalysts of Oxygen Reduction Reactions in Alkaline Solutions
Authors: Chu Chen , Tang Jinqiong , Zhao Zhiyang , Kong Yong , Shen Xiaodong
Published: November 2022

Aerogels have interconnected networks and preeminent pore structures. When used as the catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), they can facilitate the mass transfer and expose more active sites. Here, we synthesized the Fe-doped titanium oxide-based aerogels (TA/Fes) by the sol–gel method combined with thermal treatment. The specific surface areas of the TA/Fes ranged from 475 to 774 m2·g−1, and the pore volumes varied from 0.96 to 1.72 cm3·g−1. The doping effect of the Fe ions and the oxygen vacancies in anatase enhance the electrical conductivity, leading to the low Rct (313.3–828.2 Ω). All samples showed excellent stability (2.0–4.5 mV) and 4e− pathway. The limiting current density of TA/Fe3 reached 5.34 mA·cm−2, which was comparable to that of commercial Pt/C. The preparation method is inspiring and the as-prepared aerogel catalysts have potential in promoting the scale of fuel cells.
Influence of Mo on Ni-15Cr Cladding Layers via Plasma Transferred Arc
Authors: Shi Peiran , Yin Hang , Zhou Yichen , Zhang Guodong
Published: November 2022

The composite Ni-Cr-Mo covering layers with excellent corrosion and wear resistance are deposited by plasma transferred arc (PTA), which can improve the service life of ships and solve the corrosion and wear problems of mechanized boats. The effects of Mo on the microstructure, hardness and corrosion resistance of covering layers were analyzed by OM, SEM, XRD, EDS, a micro hardness test, a friction test and a corrosion-resistance test. The results show that the structure of covering layers change and the austenite precipitates become granular with an increase of Mo content. In addition, the corrosion and wear resistance of covering layers are improved and the sample with 5% content of Mo has the best wear and corrosion resistance.
Study on the Application of Modified Sn-Based Solder in Cable Intermediate Joints
Authors: Zhang Wenbin , Luo Ruikang , Wu Xuehua , Xu Chungang , Suo Chunguang
Published: November 2022

With the increasing use of underground cables, the quantity and quality of intermediate joints demanded are also increasing. The quality of the traditional crimping intermediate joint is easily affected by the actual process of the operator, which may lead to the heating of the crimping part of the wire core, affecting the insulation performance of the cable, and finally causing the joint to break. However, aluminothermic reactive technology has some problems, such as a high welding temperature and an uncontrollable reaction. In order to solve these problems, according to the brazing principle and microalloying method, the optimal content of In in Sn-1.5Cu-based solder was explored, and then the connection of the middle joint of a 10 kV cable was completed using a connecting die and electrical connection process. The contact resistance and tensile strength of the joint were tested to verify the feasibility of this method. The results show that the maximum conductivity of the solder with 3.8% and 5% In content can reach 3.236 × 106 S/m, and the highest wettability is 93.6%. Finally, the minimum contact resistance of the intermediate joint is 7.05 μΩ, which is 43% lower than that of the aluminothermic welded joint, and the tensile strength is close to that of the welded joint, with a maximum of 7174 N.
Evaluation of the Shear Performance of Douglas-Fir Wood at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Zhang Lingfeng , Li Qianyi , Liu Weiqing , He Qian , Liu Yan , Guo Kai
Published: November 2022

Shear fracture frequently occurs in timber beams and panels subjected to transverse loads. At elevated temperatures, wood will undergo complex physical and chemical processes which significantly affect the shear properties. In this paper, the v-notched Douglas-fir specimens with three different shear planes: (a) Radial-Tangential (RT); (b) Radial-Longitudinal (RL), and (c) Longitudinal-Radial (LR), were fabricated and tested under the elevated temperatures from 20 °C to 180 °C. The digital image correlation (DIC) technique was used to measure the shear strain. It was found that the shear plane had a significant effect on the failure modes, shear strength, and shear modulus. The shear strength and shear modulus generally decreased with the increase of temperature. However, the shear strength was significantly improved when the hardening of the dry lignin occurred between 100 °C and 140 °C. Moreover, the design curve for the shear strength in Eurocode 5 is conservative for all the specimens with different shear planes.
A Study on Predicting the Outbreak of COVID-19 in the United Arab Emirates: A Monte Carlo Simulation Approach
Authors: Alkhateeb Noor , Sallabi Farag , Harous Saad , Awad Mamoun
Published: November 2022

According to the World Health Organization updates, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused a pandemic between 2019 and 2022, with millions of confirmed cases and deaths worldwide. There are various approaches to predicting the suspected, infected, and recovered (SIR) cases with different factual or epidemiological models. Some of the recent approaches to predicting the COVID-19 outbreak have had positive impacts in specific nations. Results show that the SIR model is a significant tool to cast the dynamics and predictions of the COVID-19 outbreak compared to other epidemic models. In this paper, we employ the Monte Carlo simulation to predict the spread of COVID-19 in the United Arab Emirates. We study traditional SIR models in general and focus on a time-dependent SIR model, which has been proven more adaptive and robust in predicting the COVID-19 outbreak. We evaluate the time-dependent SIR model. Then, we implement a Monte Carlo model. The Monte Carlo model uses the parameters extracted from the Time-Dependent SIR Model. The Monte Carlo model exhibited a better prediction accuracy and resembles the data collected from the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, United Arab Emirates, between April and July 2020.
A Review of Collocation Approximations to Solutions of Differential Equations
Authors: Singh Pravin , Parumasur Nabendra , Singh Shivani
Published: November 2022

This review considers piecewise polynomial functions, that have long been known to be a useful and versatile tool in numerical analysis, for solving problems which have solutions with irregular features, such as steep gradients and oscillatory behaviour. Examples of piecewise polynomial functions used include splines, in particular B-splines, and Hermite functions. Spline functions are useful for obtaining global approximations whilst Hermite functions are useful for approximation over finite elements. Our aim in this review is to study quintic Hermite functions and develop a numerical collocation scheme for solving ODEs and PDEs. This choice of basis functions is further motivated by the fact that we are interested in solving problems having solutions with steep gradients and oscillatory properties, for which this approximation basis seems to be a suitable choice. We derive the quintic Hermite basis and use it to formulate the orthogonal collocation on finite element (OCFE) method. We present the error analysis for third order ODEs and derive both global and nodal error bounds to illustrate the super-convergence property at the nodes. Numerical simulations using the Julia programming language are performed for both ODEs and PDEs and enhance the theoretical results.
On the Optimal Control Problem for Vibrations of the Rod/String Consisting of Two Non-Homogeneous Sections with the Condition at an Intermediate Time
Authors: Barseghyan Vanya , Solodusha Svetlana
Published: November 2022

We consider an optimal boundary control problem for a one-dimensional wave equation consisting of two non-homogenous segments with piecewise constant characteristics. The wave equation describes the longitudinal vibrations of a non-homogeneous rod or the transverse vibrations of a non-homogeneous string with given initial, intermediate, and final conditions. We assume that wave travel time for each of the sections is the same. The control is carried out by shifting one end with the other end fixed. The quality criterion is set on the entire time interval. A constructive approach to building an optimal boundary control is proposed. The results obtained are illustrated with an analytical example.
Arnold’s Piecewise Linear Filtrations, Analogues of Stanley–Reisner Rings and Simplicial Newton Polyhedra
Authors: Kushnirenko Anatoly
Published: November 2022

In 1974, the author proved that the codimension of the ideal (g1,g2,…,gd) generated in the group algebra K[Zd] over a field K of characteristic 0 by generic Laurent polynomials having the same Newton polytope Γ is equal to d!×Volume(Γ). Assuming that Newtons polytope is simplicial and super-convenient (that is, containing some neighborhood of the origin), the author strengthens the 1974 result by explicitly specifying the set Bsh of monomials of cardinality d!×Volume(Γ), whose equivalence classes form a basis of the quotient algebra K[Zd]/(g1,g2,…,gd). The set Bsh is constructed inductively from any shelling sh of the polytope Γ. Using the Bsh structure, we prove that the associated graded K -algebra grΓ(K[Zd]) constructed from the Arnold–Newton filtration of K -algebra K[Zd] has the Cohen–Macaulay property. This proof is a generalization of B. Kind and P. Kleinschmitt’s 1979 proof that Stanley–Reisner rings of simplicial complexes admitting shelling are Cohen–Macaulay. Finally, we prove that for generic Laurent polynomials (f1,f2,…,fd) with the same Newton polytope Γ, the set Bsh defines a monomial basis of the quotient algebra K[Zd]/(g1,g2,…,gd).
Mathematical and Computational Biology of Viruses at the Molecular or Cellular Levels
Authors: Churkin Alexander , Barash Danny
Published: November 2022

Mathematical and computational biology of viruses at the molecular or cellular levels are more difficult to accurately address than at the population level [...]
Data-Driven Constitutive Modeling via Conjugate Pairs and Response Functions
Authors: Salamatova Victoria
Published: November 2022

Response functions completely define the constitutive equations for a hyperelastic material. A strain measure providing an orthogonal stress response, grants response functions directly from experimental curves. One of these strain measures is the Laplace stretch based on QR-decomposition of the deformation gradient. Such a recovery of response functions from experimental data fits the paradigm of data-driven modeling. The set of independent conjugate stress–strain base pairs were proposed as a simple alternative for constitutive modeling and thus might be efficient for data-driven modeling. In the present paper we explore applicability of the conjugate pairs approach for data-driven modeling. The analysis is based on representation of the conjugate pairs in terms of the response functions due to the Laplace stretch. Our analysis shows that one can not guarantee independence of these pairs except in the case of infinitesimal strain.
Can Growth of Nannochloropsis oculata under Modulated Stress Enhance Its Lipid-Associated Biological Properties?
Authors: Sousa Sérgio C. , Machado Manuela , Freitas Ana C. , Gomes Ana M. , Carvalho Ana P.
Published: November 2022

Nannochloropsis oculata is well-recognized as a potential microalgal source of valuable compounds such as polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). The content and profile of these lipids is highly dependent on the growth conditions and can, therefore, be tailored through modulation of the growth parameters, specifically, temperature. Moreover, biological activities are composition dependent. In the present work, lipid extracts obtained from N. oculata, grown under constant temperature and under modulated temperature stress (to increase EPA content; Str) were characterized by GC-FID and several bioactivities were evaluated, namely, antioxidant (L-ORACFL), cytotoxic (MTT), adipolytic, anti-hepatic lipid accumulation (steatosis), and anti-inflammatory properties. Both extracts exhibited antioxidant activity (c.a. 49 µmol Troloxequivalent/mgextract) and the absence of toxicity (up to 800 µg/mL) toward colon and hepatic cells, adipocytes, and macrophages. They also induced adipolysis and the inhibition of triglycerides hepatic accumulation, with a higher impact from Str. In addition, anti-inflammatory activity was observed in the lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation of macrophages in the presence of either extract, since lower levels of pro-inflammatory interleukin-6 and interferon-β were obtained, specifically by Str. The results presented herein revealed that modulated temperature stress may enhance the health effects of N. oculata lipid extracts, which may be safely utilized to formulate novel food products.
Experimental Performance of a Membrane Desorber with a H2O/LiCl Mixture for Absorption Chiller Applications
Authors: Ibarra-Bahena Jonathan , Dehesa-Carrasco Ulises , Galindo-Luna Yuridiana Rocio , Medina-Caballero Iván Leonardo , Rivera Wilfrido
Published: November 2022

For absorption cooling cycles using water as a refrigerant, H2O/LiCl mixtures are suitable for replacing conventional H2O/LiBr mixtures. In addition, membrane devices can be used to develop compact and lighter absorption systems, and they can operate with H2O/LiCl mixtures. The present paper describes an experimental evaluation of a membrane desorber/condenser operating at atmospheric pressure. Two operation modes were analyzed: continuous cycle operation and intermittent operation. For the first operation mode, the maximum desorption rate was 3.49 kg/h·m2, with a solution temperature of 90.3 °C and a condensation temperature of 25.1 °C. The lowest desorption rate value was 0.26 kg/h·m2, with a solution temperature of 75.4 °C and a condensation temperature of 40.1 °C. In the second mode, after three operating hours, the refrigerant fluid produced, per 1 m2 of membrane area, 7.7, 5.6, 4.3, and 2.2 kg, at solution temperatures of 90.3, 85.3, 80.4, and 75.4 °C, respectively. A one-dimension heat and mass transfer model is presented. The calculated values of desorption rate and outlet temperatures were compared with the experimental data; a square correlation coefficient of 0.9929 was reached for the desorption rate; meanwhile, for the outlet solution temperatures and the outlet cooling-water temperatures, a square correlation coefficient up to 0.9991 was achieved. The membrane desorber has the advantages of operating at atmospheric-pressure conditions, high condensation temperature, the ability to use different saline solution working mixtures, and different operation methods. These advantages can lead to new absorption systems.
Effect of Phase Heterogeneity on the Properties of Poly(vinyl alcohol)-Based Composite Pervaporation Membranes
Authors: Kononova Svetlana V. , Kremnev Roman V. , Gubanova Galina N. , Vlasova Elena N. , Popova Elena N. , Vylegzhanina Milana E. , Volkov Anatoly Ya.
Published: November 2022

The structure, thermophysical characteristics, and pervaporation properties of composite membranes based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) are studied in dependence of the film preparation conditions. It is shown that the nature of the supramolecular organization of the composite polymer film determines which of the components of the separated mixtures of toluene and heptane predominantly penetrate through the corresponding pervaporation membrane. The observed structural effects can become more pronounced if the second component of a polymer mixture is purposefully selected (in this case, poly(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) instead of poly(acrylic acid)) or a nano-sized filler that can be well dispersed in the polymer matrix is introduced. Multi-wall carbon nanotubes are introduced into binary PVA-containing polymer blends. The influence of these fillers on the structure and transport properties of the obtained membranes is studied.
Development of Materials Based on the NiAlCrMoCo System Reinforced with ZrO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Agureev Leonid , Savushkina Svetlana , Laptev Ivan , Vysotina Elena , Lyakhovetsky Maxim
Published: November 2022

This paper describes thermodynamic modeling of the NiAl–CrMoCo system with the calculation of the equilibrium composition and thermodynamic parameters of the system. NiAl-Cr-Mo-Co alloy samples of equiatomic composition, including those with a small addition of zirconium oxide nanoparticles, were obtained by spark plasma sintering of mechanically alloyed powders. It was found that the material had a two-phase structure with wedge-shaped regions enriched in cobalt and molybdenum with a gradient distribution. In addition, in the regions enriched with (Cr, Mo) phase, a lamellar σ phase was found. Fractographic analysis showed a positive effect of the fine-grained wedge-shaped regions on the damping of crack propagation. The alloy with the addition of zirconium oxide nanoparticles had a bending strength and an elastic modulus of 611 MPa and 295 GPa at 25 °C, and 604 MPa and 260 GPa at 750 °C, respectively, when tested in vacuum.
Causal Effects of Circulating Lipid Traits on Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Meng Hongen , Wang Rong , Song Zijun , Wang Fudi
Published: November 2022

Ovarian cancer (OC), and particularly epithelial OC (EOC), is an increasing challenge for women. Circulating lipids play different roles in the occurrence and development of OC, but no causal relationship has been confirmed. We used two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) to evaluate the genetic effects of circulating Apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1), Apolipoprotein B (APOB), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglyc-erides (TG) on EOC risks based on summary data obtained from the UK Biobank and the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium. We used the inverse-variance weight as the main statistical method and the MR-Egger, weighted median, and MR-PRESSO for sensitivity analysis. A 1-SD increment in HDL gave odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of OR = 0.80 (95% CI: 0.69–0.93), OR = 0.77 (95% CI: 0.66–0.90), and OR = 0.76 (95% CI: 0.63–0.90) for low malignant potential OC (LMPOC), low-grade low malignant OC (LGLMSOC), and low malignant serous OC (LMSOC), respectively. Genetic liability due to TG was associated with an increased risk of LGLMSOC and LGSOC and a suggestive association with an increased risk of LMSOC (p = 0.001, p = 0.007, and p = 0.027, respectively). Circulating HDL was negatively associated with the risk of LMPOC, LGLMSOC, and LMSOC, while elevated circulating TG levels genetically predicted an increased risk of LGLMSOC and LGSOC. Further research is needed to investigate the causal effects of lipids on EOC and potential intervention and therapeutic targets.
A Review on Experimental and Numerical Investigations of Jet Impingement Cooling Performance with Nanofluids
Authors: Wai Ooi Jen , Gunnasegaran Prem , Hasini Hasril
Published: November 2022

Nanofluids offer great potential heat transfer enhancement and provide better thermophysical properties than conventional heat transfer fluids. Application of nanofluids in jet impingement cooling is used for many industrial and scientific purposes as it manages to effectively remove high localized heat. Owing to its tremendous improvement of the heat transfer field, the use of nanofluids in jet impingement cooling has caught the attention of many researchers. This paper reviews previous research and recent advancements of nanofluid jet impingement via both experimental and numerical studies. In experimental approaches, Al2O3-water nanofluids are the most used working fluids by researchers, and most experiments were conducted with conventional impinging jets. As for the numerical approach, the single-phase model was the preferred model over the two-phase model in obtaining numerical solutions, due to the lower computational time required. A deep insight is provided into nanofluid preparation and methods for stabilization. Parameters affecting the performance of the jet impinging system are also investigated with comparison to numerous publications. The main parameters for jet impinging include the jet-to-plate distance (H/D), the shape of the impinged plate (curved, flat or concave), nozzle configurations and the twisted tape ratio. Studies on conventional impinging jets (CIJs), as well as swirling impinging jets (SIJs), are presented in this paper.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Microfluidics and Lab-on-a-Chip Applications for Biosensing
Authors: Cerqueira Laura , Miranda João Mário
Published: November 2022

Microfluidics refers the use of interdisciplinary science and engineering concepts that can control and manipulate small fluidic volumes [...]
Optically Remote Control of Miniaturized 3D Reconfigurable CRLH Printed Self-Powered MIMO Antenna Array for 5G Applications
Authors: Al-khaylani Hayder H. , Elwi Taha A. , Ibrahim Abdullahi A.
Published: November 2022

A novel design of a reconfigurable MIMO antenna array of a 3D geometry-based solar cell integration that is operating at sub-6 GHz for self-power applications in a 5G modern wireless communication network. The proposed antenna array provides three main frequency bands around 3.6 GHz, 3.9 GHz, and 4.9 GHz, with excellent matching impedance of S11 ≤ −10 dB. The proposed MIMO array is constructed from four antenna elements arranged on a cubical structure to provide a low mutual coupling, below −20 dB, over all frequency bands of interest. Each antenna element is excited with a coplanar waveguide (CPW). The proposed radiation patterns are controlled with two optical switches of Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs). The proposed antenna array is fabricated and tested experimentally in terms of S-parameters, gain and radiation patterns. The maximum gain is found to be 3.6 dBi, 6.9 dBi, and 3.5 dBi at 3.6 GHz, 3.9 GHz, and 4.9 GHz, respectively. It is realized that the proposed array realizes a significant beam forming by splitting the antenna beam and changing the main lobe direction at 3.9 GHz after changing LDR switching statuses. Such an antenna array is found to be very applicable for femtocell wireless communication networks in the 5G systems.
Study on the Control Method of Sidewall Taper in Electrolytic Broaching of Micro Multi-Grooves
Authors: Liu Jia , Wu Hao , Gao Feng
Published: November 2022

Micro multi-grooves are important functional structures widely used in new heat exchanger types, chemical reactors, and other applications. Electrolytic broaching is an efficient and low-cost technology for processing micro multi-grooves. In the conventional electrolytic broaching of multi-grooves, the cathode tools are usually designed as a wedge-shaped tooth structure array with a constant tooth width, and the sidewalls are covered with insulating layers. The machined groove sidewall is always tapered because of stray current corrosion, which strongly affects the groove contour accuracy. Cathode tools with variable tooth width structures are proposed to solve this problem. Based on the simulation results of the electrolytic broaching anode forming process, the optimal front tooth width is obtained through the golden section optimization method, and comparative tests of the conventional and optimized cathode tools were carried out. At an electrochemical broaching feed rate of 120 mm/min, array microgrooves with widths of about 550 μm and depths of about 520 μm were processed. With the optimized variable tooth width tool, the sidewall tapers of the grooves were reduced from 7.254° to 0.268°. The experimental results verify the effectiveness of the simulation and cathode structure optimization.
Hymenolepis diminuta Reduce Lactic Acid Bacterial Load and Induce Dysbiosis in the Early Infection of the Probiotic Colonization of Swiss Albino Rat
Authors: Mandal Sudeshna , Mondal Chandrani , Mukherjee Tanmoy , Saha Samiparna , Kundu Anirban , Ghosh Sinchan , Lyndem Larisha M.
Published: November 2022

Tapeworm infection continues to be an important cause of morbidity worldwide. Recent metagenomics studies have established a link between gut microbiota and parasite infection. The identification of gut probiotics is of foremost importance to explore its relationship and function with the parasite in the host. In this study, the gut content of hosts infected with tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta and non-infected host gut were disected out to determine their Lactic acid bacterial (LAB) population in MRS agar and microbial community was analysed by metagenomics. The bacterial count was calculated on a bacterial counting chamber and their morphology was determined microscopically and biochemically. Further, to determine the safety profile antibiotic resistance test, antimicrobial, hemolytic activity, and adhesion capability were calculated. We found six dominant probiotic strains and a decrease in LAB load from 1.7–2.3 × 107 CFU/mL in the uninfected group to a range of 8.4 × 105 CFU/mL to 3.2 × 105 CFU/mL in the infected groups with respect to an increase in the parasite number from 10–18. In addition, we found a depletion in the probiotic relative abundance of Lactobacillus and an enrichment in potentially pathogenic Proteobacteria, Fusobacteria, and Streptococcus. Phylogenetic analysis of the six probiotics revealed a close similarity with different strains of L. brevis, L. johnsonii, L. taiwansis, L. reuteri, L. plantarum, and L. pentosus. Thus, this study suggests that the parasite inhibits probiotic colonization in the gut during its early establishment of infection inside the host.
Imaging of Musculoskeletal Soft-Tissue Infections in Clinical Practice: A Comprehensive Updated Review
Authors: Spinnato Paolo , Patel Dakshesh B. , Di Carlo Maddalena , Bartoloni Alessandra , Cevolani Luca , Matcuk George R. , Crombé Amandine
Published: November 2022

Musculoskeletal soft-tissue infections include a wide range of clinical conditions that are commonly encountered in both emergency departments and non-emergency clinical settings. Since clinical signs, symptoms, and even laboratory tests can be unremarkable or non-specific, imaging plays a key role in many cases. MRI is considered the most comprehensive and sensitive imaging tool available for the assessment of musculoskeletal infections. Ultrasound is a fundamental tool, especially for the evaluation of superficially located diseases and for US-guided interventional procedures, such as biopsy, needle-aspiration, and drainage. Conventional radiographs can be very helpful, especially for the detection of foreign bodies and in cases of infections with delayed diagnosis displaying bone involvement. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the radiological tools available and the imaging features of the most common musculoskeletal soft-tissue infections, including cellulitis, necrotizing and non-necrotizing fasciitis, foreign bodies, abscess, pyomyositis, infectious tenosynovitis, and bursitis.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Multifunctional Bimetallic Ag-CuO Nanohybrids and Their Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm and Antiproliferative Potential
Authors: Almutairi Hayfa Habes , Parveen Nazish , Ansari Sajid Ali
Published: November 2022

The rapidly growing global problem of infectious pathogens acquiring resistance to conventional antibiotics is an instigating reason for researchers to continue the search for functional as well as broad-spectrum antimicrobials. Hence, we aimed in this study to synthesis silver–copper oxide (Ag-CuO) nanohybrids as a function of Ag concentration (0.05, 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 g) via the one-step hydrothermal method. The bimetallic Ag-CuO nanohybrids Ag-C-1, Ag-C-2, Ag-C-3 and Ag-C-4 were characterized for their physico-chemical properties. The SEM results showed pleomorphic Ag-CuO crystals; however, the majority of the particles were found in spherical shape. TEM results showed that the Ag-CuO nanohybrids in formulations Ag-C-1 and Ag-C-3 were in the size range of 20–35 nm. Strong signals of Ag, Cu and O in the EDX spectra revealed that the as-synthesized nanostructures are bimetallic Ag-CuO nanohybrids. The obtained Ag-C-1, Ag-C-2, Ag-C-3 and Ag-C-4 nanohybrids have shown their MICs and MBCs against E. coli and C. albicans in the range of 4–12 mg/mL and 2–24 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, dose-dependent toxicity and apoptosis process stimulation in the cultured human colon cancer HCT-116 cells have proven the Ag-CuO nanohybrids as promising antiproliferative agents against mammalian cancer.
Engineering of Nanostructured WO3 Powders for Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Mineo Giacometta , Scuderi Mario , Pezzotti Escobar Gianni , Mirabella Salvo , Bruno Elena
Published: November 2022

Transition metal oxide nanostructures are promising materials for energy storage devices, exploiting electrochemical reactions at nanometer solid–liquid interface. Herein, WO3 nanorods and hierarchical urchin-like nanostructures were obtained by hydrothermal method and calcination processes. The morphology and crystal phase of WO3 nanostructures were investigated by scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), while energy storage performances of WO3 nanostructures-based electrodes were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) tests. Promising values of specific capacitance (632 F/g at 5 mV/s and 466 F/g at 0.5 A/g) are obtained when pure hexagonal crystal phase WO3 hierarchical urchin-like nanostructures are used. A detailed modeling is given of surface and diffusion-controlled mechanisms in the energy storage process. An asymmetric supercapacitor has also been realized by using WO3 urchin-like nanostructures and a graphene paper electrode, revealing the highest energy density (90 W × h/kg) at a power density of 90 W × kg−1 and the highest power density (9000 W/kg) at an energy density of 18 W × h/kg. The presented correlation among physical features and electrochemical performances of WO3 nanostructures provides a solid base for further developing energy storage devices based on transition metal oxides.
Iron and Copper Doped Zinc Oxide Nanopowders as a Sensitizer of Industrial Energetic Materials to Visible Laser Radiation
Authors: Zverev Anton S. , Ilyakova Natalya N. , Nurmukhametov Denis R. , Dudnikova Yulia N. , Russakov Dmitry M. , Pugachev Valery M. , Mitrofanov Anatoly Y.
Published: November 2022

The development of methods ensuring reliable control over explosive chemical reactions is a critical task for the safe and efficient application of energetic materials. Triggering the explosion by laser radiation is one of the promising methods. In this work, we demonstrate a technique of applying the common industrial high explosive pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) as a photosensitive energetic material by adding zinc oxide nanopowders doped with copper and iron. Nanopowders of ZnO:Fe and ZnO:Cu able to absorb visible light were synthesized. The addition of one mass percent nanopowders in PETN decreased the threshold energy density of its initiation through Nd:YAG laser second harmonic (2.33 eV) by more than five times. The obtained energetic composites can be reliably initiated by a CW blue laser diode with a wavelength of 450 nm and power of 21 W. The low threshold initiation energy and short irradiation exposure of the PETN-ZnO:Cu composite makes it applicable in laser initiation devices. PETN-ZnO:Cu also can be initiated by an infrared laser diode with a wavelength of 808 nm. The proposed photochemical mechanism of the laser-induced triggering of the explosion reaction in the studied energetic composites was formulated. The results demonstrate the high promise of using nanomaterials based on zinc oxide as a sensitizer of industrial energetic materials to visible laser radiation.
Synthesis and Study of Palladium Mono- and Bimetallic (with Ag and Pt) Nanoparticles in Catalytic and Membrane Hydrogen Processes
Authors: Pushankina Polina , Baryshev Mikhail , Petriev Iliya
Published: November 2022

A controlled strategy for the electrochemical synthesis of mono- and bimetallic nanoparticles with a unique and complex morphology has been developed. The investigation of the effect of changing the surfactant concentration and current density regulating the medium pH has revealed the fundamental patterns of nanoparticle growth. The developed method has allowed to synthesis of nanoparticles with a controlled pentabranched structure for the monometallic palladium as well as for favorable combinations of metals—Pd-Ag and Pd-Pt. The obtained nanoparticles were investigated in alkaline methanol oxidation. The results demonstrated quite high catalytic activity up to 83.51 mA cm−2 and long-term stability, which are caused by the increase in electrochemically active surface area by increasing the active center’s number. This was made possible due to the creation of unusual nanoparticle morphology, namely the presence of high-energy high-index facets. The developed nanoparticles were also studied as a modifying coating for hydrogen-permeable membranes in the processes of hydrogen transport. The membranes coated with the nanoparticles demonstrated sufficiently high hydrogen flux up to 11.33 mmol s−1 m−2 and high H2/N2 selectivity up to 2254. Such results can be explained by the obvious acceleration of surface processes through the application of the developed nanoparticles. The novel synthesis strategy can potentially be extended to other metal nanoparticle systems. Thus it can be an effective way to solve relevant problems of design of controlled synthetic methods allowing the nanoparticle morphology tuning according to the required functional properties.
A Hydrodistillate of Gynostemma pentaphyllum and Damulin B Prevent Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity In Vitro and In Vivo via Regulation of AMPKα1 Transcription
Authors: Song Minhyeok , Kim Minseok , Hoang Dang Hieu , Kovale Lochana Mangesh , Lee Jihyun , Kim Youngjoo , Lee Changhyun , Hong Jongki , Park Sungchul , Choe Wonchae , Kang Insug , Kim Sung Soo , Ha Joohun
Published: November 2022

The clinical application of cisplatin, one of the most effective chemotherapeutic agents used to treat various cancers, has been limited by the risk of adverse effects, notably nephrotoxicity. Despite intensive research for decades, there are no effective approaches for alleviating cisplatin nephrotoxicity. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects and potential mechanisms of a Gynostemma pentaphyllum leaves hydrodistillate (GPHD) and its major component, damulin B, against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. A hydro-distillation method can extract large amounts of components within a short period of time using non-toxic, environmentally friendly solvent. We found that the levels of AMP-activated protein kinase α1 (AMPKα1), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and apoptosis were tightly associated with each other in HEK293 cells treated with cisplatin. We demonstrated that AMPKα1 acted as an anti-oxidant factor and that ROS generated by cisplatin suppressed the expression of AMPKα1 at the transcriptional level, thereby resulting in induction of apoptosis. Treatment with GPHD or damulin B effectively prevented cisplatin-induced apoptosis of HEK293 cells and cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury in mice by suppressing oxidative stress and maintaining AMPKα1 levels. Therefore, our study suggests that GPHD and damulin B may serve as prospective adjuvant agents against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.
Advances in the Bioactivities of Phytochemical Saponins in the Prevention and Treatment of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Luo Huiyu , Chen Junbin , Su Chuhong , Zha Longying
Published: November 2022

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by hardening and narrowing of arteries. AS leads to a number of arteriosclerotic vascular diseases including cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular disease and peripheral artery disease, which pose a big threat to human health. Phytochemicals are a variety of intermediate or terminal low molecular weight secondary metabolites produced during plant energy metabolism. Phytochemicals from plant foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains) and traditional herb plants have been shown to exhibit multiple bioactivities which are beneficial for prevention and treatment against AS. Many types of phytochemicals including polyphenols, saponins, carotenoids, terpenoids, organic sulfur compounds, phytoestrogens, phytic acids and plant sterols have already been identified, among which saponins are a family of glycosidic compounds consisting of a hydrophobic aglycone (sapogenin) linked to hydrophilic sugar moieties. In recent years, studies have shown that saponins exhibit a number of biological activities such as anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, cholesterol-lowering, immunomodulation, anti-platelet aggregation, etc., which are helpful in the prevention and treatment of AS. This review aims to summarize the recent advances in the anti-atherosclerotic bioactivities of saponins such as ginsenoside, soyasaponin, astra-galoside, glycyrrhizin, gypenoside, dioscin, saikosaponin, etc.
Suffruticosol C-Mediated Autophagy and Cell Cycle Arrest via Inhibition of mTORC1 Signaling
Authors: Qin Senlin , Geng Huijun , Wang Guoyan , Chen Lei , Xia Chao , Yao Junhu , Bai Zhangzhen , Deng Lu
Published: November 2022

Paeonia species are well-known ornamental plants that are used in traditional Chinese medicines. The seeds of these species are rich in stilbenes, which have wide-ranging health-promoting effects. In particular, resveratrol, which is a common stilbene, is widely known for its anticancer properties. Suffruticosol C, which is a trimer of resveratrol, is the most dominant stilbene found in peony seeds. However, it is not clear whether suffruticosol C has cancer regulating properties. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed to determine the effect of suffruticosol C against various cancer cell lines. Our findings showed that suffruticosol C induces autophagy and cell cycle arrest instead of cell apoptosis and ferroptosis. Mechanistically, suffruticosol C regulates autophagy and cell cycle via inhibiting the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling. Thus, our findings imply that suffruticosol C regulates cancer cell viability by inducing autophagy and cell cycle arrest via the inhibition of mTORC1 signaling.
p-Hydroxybenzyl Alcohol Antagonized the ROS-Dependent JNK/Jun/Caspase-3 Pathway to Produce Neuroprotection in a Cellular Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Lai Mei-Chou , Liu Wayne-Young , Liou Shorong-Shii , Liu I-Min
Published: November 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive disorder that affects brain nerve cells responsible for body motion and remains incurable. p-Hydroxybenzyl alcohol (HBA) is the primary phenolic compound in Gastrodiae Rhizoma, known for its therapeutic benefits against neurodegeneration. However, the protective effect of HBA against Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of HBA in vitro 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced PD model in SH-SY5Y cells. SH-SY5Y cells were pretreated with various concentrations of HBA for 1 h and incubated with 100 μmol/L 6-OHDA for 24 h to induce cellular lesions. 2,5-Diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide was used to detect cellular viability. 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin oxidation detects reactive oxygen species (ROS). The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. The cellular mitochondrial function was identified through the collapse of the mitochondrial membrane potential, the release of cytochrome c, and the synthesis of mitochondrial ATP. Expression of pro-and anti-apoptotic factors was measured by Western blot. HBA enhanced cell viability, blocked ROS overproduction, and reduced antioxidant activities induced by 6-OHDA. HBA also reduced mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death caused by 6-OHDA. Moreover, HBA reversed the 6-OHDA-mediated activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase, the downregulation of the Bcl-2/Bax ratio, the Apaf-1 upregulation and the induction of caspase-9, caspase-3, and PARP cleavage. This study shows that the protective effects of HBA against 6-OHDA-induced cell injury provide the potential preventive effects of HBA, making it a promising preventive agent for PD.
The Role of Ketogenic Diet in the Treatment of Neurological Diseases
Authors: Dyńka Damian , Kowalcze Katarzyna , Paziewska Agnieszka
Published: November 2022

Over a hundred years of study on the favourable effect of ketogenic diets in the treatment of epilepsy have contributed to a long-lasting discussion on its potential influence on other neurological diseases. A significant increase in the number of scientific studies in that field has been currently observed. The aim of this paper is a widespread, thorough analysis of the available scientific evidence in respect of the role of the ketogenic diet in the therapy of neurological diseases such as: epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS) and migraine. A wide range of the mechanisms of action of the ketogenic diet has been demonstrated in neurological diseases, including, among other effects, its influence on the reduction in inflammatory conditions and the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the restoration of the myelin sheath of the neurons, the formation and regeneration of mitochondria, neuronal metabolism, the provision of an alternative source of energy for neurons (ketone bodies), the reduction in glucose and insulin concentrations, the reduction in amyloid plaques, the induction of autophagy, the alleviation of microglia activation, the reduction in excessive neuronal activation, the modulation of intestinal microbiota, the expression of genes, dopamine production and the increase in glutamine conversion into GABA. The studies discussed (including randomised controlled studies), conducted in neurological patients, have stressed the effectiveness of the ketogenic diet in the treatment of epilepsy and have demonstrated its promising therapeutic potential in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS) and migraine. A frequent advantage of the diet was demonstrated over non-ketogenic diets (in the control groups) in the therapy of neurological diseases, with simultaneous safety and feasibility when conducting the nutritional model.
Diet and Blood Concentrations of Essential and Non-Essential Elements among Rural Residents in Arctic Russia
Authors: Sorokina Tatiana , Sobolev Nikita , Belova Natalia , Aksenov Andrey , Kotsur Dmitriy , Trofimova Anna , Varakina Yulia , Grjibovski Andrej M. , Chashchin Valerii , Korobitsyna Rimma , Thomassen Yngvar
Published: November 2022

Nutrition is an essential factor for human health. Earlier research has suggested that Arctic residents are vulnerable to environmental toxic exposures through traditional foods. Although Russia is the largest Arctic country, the evidence on the topic from the Russian part of the Arctic is scarce. We studied associations between blood concentrations of essential and non-essential elements and traditional food consumption in 297 adults from seven rural settlements in the Nenets Autonomous Area, Northwest Russia. Blood arsenic concentration was positively associated with consumption of rainbow smelt, pink salmon, Arctic char and navaga fish. Frequent consumption of northern pike was associated with increased concentration of blood mercury. Blood mercury and arsenic concentrations were significantly associated with blood selenium. We also observed positive associations between blood lead levels and the frequency of goose consumption. Moreover, subjects who reported to be hunters had higher blood levels of lead, suggesting contamination of goose meat with fragments of shotgun shells. Blood cobalt and manganese concentrations were inversely associated with serum ferritin levels. Positive associations between blood levels of manganese and lead were observed. Moreover, blood lead concentrations were significantly associated with cadmium, mercury, copper, and zinc. Our results corroborate earlier findings on the traditional foods as source of non-essential elements for the Arctic residents. Observed correlations between the levels of lead and other elements warrant further research and may have potential implications for the studies on the associations between essential elements and health outcomes.