bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endogenous miRNA-Based Innate-Immunity against SARS-CoV-2 Invasion of the Brain
Authors: Lukiw Walter J. , Pogue Aileen I.
Published: February 2023

The severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19, possesses an unusually large positive-sense, single-stranded viral RNA (ssvRNA) genome of about ~29,903 nucleotides (nt). In many respects, this ssvRNA resembles a very large, polycistronic messenger RNA (mRNA) possessing a 5′-methyl cap (m7GpppN), a 3′- and 5′-untranslated region (3′-UTR, 5′-UTR), and a poly-adenylated (poly-A+) tail. As such, the SARS-CoV-2 ssvRNA is susceptible to targeting by small non-coding RNA (sncRNA) and/or microRNA (miRNA), as well as neutralization and/or inhibition of its infectivity via the human body’s natural complement of about ~2650 miRNA species. Depending on host cell and tissue type, in silico analysis, RNA sequencing, and molecular-genetic investigations indicate that, remarkably, almost every single human miRNA has the potential to interact with the primary sequence of SARS-CoV-2 ssvRNA. Individual human variation in host miRNA abundance, speciation, and complexity among different human populations and additional variability in the cell and tissue distribution of the SARS-CoV-2 angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) receptor (ACE2R) appear to further contribute to the molecular-genetic basis for the wide variation in individual host cell and tissue susceptibility to COVID-19 infection. In this paper, we review recently described aspects of the miRNA and ssvRNA ribonucleotide sequence structure in this highly evolved miRNA–ssvRNA recognition and signaling system and, for the first time, report the most abundant miRNAs in the control superior temporal lobe neocortex (STLN), an anatomical area involved in cognition and targeted by both SARS-CoV-2 invasion and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We further evaluate important factors involving the neurotropic nature of SARS-CoV-2 and miRNAs and ACE2R distribution in the STLN that modulate significant functional deficits in the brain and CNS associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19’s long-term neurological effects.
PEGylation Prolongs the Half-Life of Equine Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Specific F(ab’)2
Authors: Xu Mengyuan , Bi Jinhao , Liang Bo , Wang Xinyue , Mo Ruo , Feng Na , Yan Feihu , Wang Tiecheng , Yang Songtao , Zhao Yongkun , Xia Xianzhu
Published: February 2023

Therapeutic antibodies-F(ab’)2 obtained from hyperimmune equine plasma could treat emerging infectious diseases rapidly because of their high neutralization activity and high output. However, the small-sized F(ab’)2 is rapidly eliminated by blood circulation. This study explored PEGylation strategies to maximize the half-life of equine anti-SARS-CoV-2 specific F(ab’)2. Equine anti-SARS-CoV-2 specific F(ab’)2 were combined with 10 KDa MAL-PEG-MAL in optimum conditions. Specifically, there were two strategies: Fab-PEG and Fab-PEG-Fab, F(ab’)2 bind to a PEG or two PEG, respectively. A single ion exchange chromatography step accomplished the purification of the products. Finally, the affinity and neutralizing activity was evaluated by ELISA and pseudovirus neutralization assay, and ELISA detected the pharmacokinetic parameters. The results displayed that equine anti-SARS-CoV-2 specific F(ab’)2 has high specificity. Furthermore, PEGylation F(ab’)2-Fab-PEG-Fab had a longer half-life than specific F(ab’)2. The serum half-life of Fab-PEG-Fab, Fab-PEG, and specific F(ab’)2 were 71.41 h, 26.73 h, and 38.32 h, respectively. The half-life of Fab-PEG-Fab was approximately two times as long as the specific F(ab’)2. Thus far, PEGylated F(ab’)2 has been prepared with high safety, high specificity, and a longer half-life, which could be used as a potential treatment for COVID-19.
Biomaterials-Enhanced Intranasal Delivery of Drugs as a Direct Route for Brain Targeting
Authors: Marcello Elena , Chiono Valeria
Published: February 2023

Intranasal (IN) drug delivery is a non-invasive and effective route for the administration of drugs to the brain at pharmacologically relevant concentrations, bypassing the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and minimizing adverse side effects. IN drug delivery can be particularly promising for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. The drug delivery mechanism involves the initial drug penetration through the nasal epithelial barrier, followed by drug diffusion in the perivascular or perineural spaces along the olfactory or trigeminal nerves, and final extracellular diffusion throughout the brain. A part of the drug may be lost by drainage through the lymphatic system, while a part may even enter the systemic circulation and reach the brain by crossing the BBB. Alternatively, drugs can be directly transported to the brain by axons of the olfactory nerve. To improve the effectiveness of drug delivery to the brain by the IN route, various types of nanocarriers and hydrogels and their combinations have been proposed. This review paper analyzes the main biomaterials-based strategies to enhance IN drug delivery to the brain, outlining unsolved challenges and proposing ways to address them.
Selenium, Iodine and Iron–Essential Trace Elements for Thyroid Hormone Synthesis and Metabolism
Authors: Köhrle Josef
Published: February 2023

The adequate availability and metabolism of three essential trace elements, iodine, selenium and iron, provide the basic requirements for the function and action of the thyroid hormone system in humans, vertebrate animals and their evolutionary precursors. Selenocysteine-containing proteins convey both cellular protection along with H2O2-dependent biosynthesis and the deiodinase-mediated (in-)activation of thyroid hormones, which is critical for their receptor-mediated mechanism of cellular action. Disbalances between the thyroidal content of these elements challenge the negative feedback regulation of the hypothalamus–pituitary–thyroid periphery axis, causing or facilitating common diseases related to disturbed thyroid hormone status such as autoimmune thyroid disease and metabolic disorders. Iodide is accumulated by the sodium-iodide-symporter NIS, and oxidized and incorporated into thyroglobulin by the hemoprotein thyroperoxidase, which requires local H2O2 as cofactor. The latter is generated by the dual oxidase system organized as ‘thyroxisome’ at the surface of the apical membrane facing the colloidal lumen of the thyroid follicles. Various selenoproteins expressed in thyrocytes defend the follicular structure and function against life-long exposure to H2O2 and reactive oxygen species derived therefrom. The pituitary hormone thyrotropin (TSH) stimulates all processes required for thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion and regulates thyrocyte growth, differentiation and function. Worldwide deficiencies of nutritional iodine, selenium and iron supply and the resulting endemic diseases are preventable with educational, societal and political measures.
Cyclic Thermal Shock Response of Zirconia/304 Stainless Steel Functionally Graded Materials Fabricated by Centrifugal Slurry Methods
Authors: Tsukamoto Hideaki
Published: February 2023

Functionally graded materials (FGMs) are multi-phase composites with gradual spatial variations of constituents. The compositional transitions in the FGMs are classified into two manners such as continuous gradient manners and stepwise manners. In this study, zirconia (ZrO2)/ 304 stainless steel (SUS304) FGMs with continuous gradient manners were fabricated by a combination of centrifugal slurry methods and spark plasma sintering (SPS). A variety of continuous gradient patterns were achieved by controlling the amount of dispersant such as ammonium polycarboxylic acid (PCA) in the slurry. With an increase in the amount of PCA, the gradient patterns in the FGMs changed from ceramic (ZrO2)-rich to metal (SUS304)-rich ones. According to Stokes sedimentation velocity simulations, the sedimentation velocity of SUS304 particles is higher than that of ZrO2 particles. With an increasing amount of PCA, the sedimentation velocity of the particles decreases. Cyclic thermal shock test results demonstrated that FGMs with metal (SUS304)-rich continuous gradient patterns showed the highest resistance among the samples of FGMs, 5-layered materials and ZrO2 single materials.
Analysis of Dynamic Response and Ultimate Strength for Box Girder under Bending Moment
Authors: Shi Gui-Jie , Wang De-Yu , Wang Fu-Hua , Cai Shi-Jian
Published: February 2023

The box girder can be seen as a kind of simplified ship structure that can withstand a vertical bending moment. Dynamic loads play an important role in structural safety analysis, such as ship bow slamming during harsh sea conditions. In this paper, the dynamic elastic–plastic response and ultimate strength of a box girder under a bending moment are analyzed. A box girder with the same cross-section scantlings and span length as the Nishihara experiment is selected as the analysis object. Based on the model experiment results, the non-linear FE analysis method is validated to capture the ultimate strength of a box girder under bending moment. Then, six box girders were designed to study the critical influence factors on the dynamic ultimate moment, including the model length, plate thickness, mass density and load excitation period. On the basis of structural dynamic response, an evaluation criterion of dynamic limit state for the box girder under a bending moment is proposed in this paper. Compared with the static ultimate moment, the change in the dynamic ultimate moment is discussed in detail to obtain the general principal method for dynamic strength analysis. The conclusions in this paper can provide guidance for dynamic ultimate strength evaluation.
Exploring the Gamification Affordances in Online Shopping with the Heterogeneity Examination through REBUS-PLS
Authors: Xu Xiao-Yu , Tayyab Syed Muhammad Usman , Jia Qing-Dan , Wu Kuang
Published: February 2023

This study investigates, from the perspective of affordance theory, how the implementation of gamification features and mechanisms in online-shopping platforms enable consumers to enjoy immersive shopping experiences and make subsequent shopping decisions. Importantly, the technique of REBUS-PLS is applied to unveil the nature of heterogeneity in perceived affordances and ensure the robustness of structural-model results. The research model is tested using cross-sectional data. Our results not only confirm the effects of different types of gamification affordances on immersive experience and subsequent behavior but also reveal the existence of different consumer groups within the overall sample with respect to their behavior patterns. Apart from social connectiveness, rewardability, playfulness, and novelty all exert significant effects on the immersive experience. In addition, this study identified three distinct groups, namely, “no novelty” users, “no playfulness” users, and “no connective” users.
Gender and Age, but Not Visual Context, Impact Wildlife Attitudes and Perceptions of Animals in Zoos
Authors: Alba Andrew C. , Ferrie Gina M. , Schook Mandi Wilder , Leahy Maureen , Cronin Katherine A.
Published: February 2023

People’s attitudes toward wildlife may impact their behaviors in support of conservation. We surveyed people in the United States to determine if gender, age, or visual contexts commonly seen in zoos impacted wildlife attitudes and perceptions of animals in zoos. After viewing an image of a two-toed sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni) or reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus) in one of six different contexts, respondents indicated their agreement with statements designed to reveal their wildlife attitudes. We categorized attitude types, determined factors influencing attitudes, and investigated perceptions of animals in zoos. Analyses revealed both positive and negative wildlife attitudes. Attitudes were not influenced by the context in which animals were portrayed but were highly impacted by gender and age. Similar factors influenced perceptions of animals in zoos. Zoological facilities should consider how attitudes are shaped by gender and age when designing animal exhibits, educational programs, and media offerings to promote conservation mindedness.
Abnormal Eu3+ → Eu2+ Reduction in Ca9−xMnxEu(PO4)7 Phosphors: Structure and Luminescent Properties
Authors: Sipina Elena V. , Spassky Dmitry A. , Krutyak Nataliya R. , Morozov Vladimir A. , Zhukovskaya Evgenia S. , Belik Alexei A. , Manylov Mikhail S. , Lazoryak Bogdan I. , Deyneko Dina V.
Published: February 2023

β-Ca3(PO4)2-type phosphors Ca9−xMnxEu(PO4)7 have been synthesized by high-temperature solid-phase reactions. The crystal structure of Ca8MnEu(PO4)7 was characterized by synchrotron X-ray diffraction. The phase transitions, magnetic and photoluminescence (PL) properties were studied. The abnormal reduction Eu3+ → Eu2+ in air was observed in Ca9−xMnxEu(PO4)7 according to PL spectra study and confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Eu3+ shows partial reduction and coexistence of Eu2+/3+ states. It reflects in combination of a broad band from the Eu2+ 4f65d1 → 4f7 transition and a series of sharp lines attributed to 5D0 → 7FJ transitions of Eu3+. Eu2+/Eu3+ ions are redistributed among two crystal sites, M1 and M3, while Mn2+ fully occupies octahedral site M5 in Ca8MnEu(PO4)7. The main emission band was attributed to the 5D0 → 7F2 electric dipole transition of Eu3+ at 395 nm excitation. The abnormal quenching of Eu3+ emission was observed in Ca9−xMnxEu(PO4)7 phosphors with doping of the host by Mn2+ ions. The phenomena of abnormal reduction and quenching were discussed in detail.
Hydroxyapatite Double Substituted with Zinc and Silicate Ions: Possibility of Mechanochemical Synthesis and In Vitro Properties
Authors: Makarova Svetlana V. , Bulina Natalia V. , Golubeva Yuliya A. , Klyushova Lyubov S. , Dumchenko Natalya B. , Shatskaya Svetlana S. , Ishchenko Arcady V. , Khvostov Mikhail V. , Dudina Dina V.
Published: February 2023

In this study, the mechanochemical synthesis of substituted hydroxyapatite (HA) containing zinc and silicon ions having a chemical formula of Ca10−xZnx(PO4)6−x(SiO4)x(OH)2−x, where x = 0.2, 0.6, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0, was carried out. The synthesized materials were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy. We found that HA co-substituted with zinc and silicate formed up to x = 1.0. At higher concentrations of the substituents, the formation of large amounts of an amorphous phase was observed. The cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of the co-substituted HA was studied in vitro on Hek293 and MG-63 cell lines. The HA co-substituted with zinc and silicate demonstrated high biocompatibility; the lowest cytotoxicity was observed at x = 0.2. For this composition, good proliferation of MG-63 osteoblast-like cells and an increased solubility compared with that of HA were detected. These properties allow us to recommend the synthesized material for medical applications, namely, for the restoration of bone tissue and manufacture of biodegradable implants.
Magnetic Damping and Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya Interactions in Pt/Co2FeAl/MgO Systems Grown on Si and MgO Substrates
Authors: Challab Nabil , Roussigné Yves , Chérif Salim Mourad , Gabor Mihai , Belmeguenai Mohamed
Published: February 2023

Spin-pumping-induced damping and interfacial Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction (iDMI) have been studied in Pt/Co2FeAl/MgO systems grown on Si or MgO substrates as a function of Pt and Co2FeAl (CFA) thicknesses. For this, we combined vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), microstrip ferromagnetic resonance (MS-FMR), and Brillouin light scattering (BLS). VSM measurements of the magnetic moment at saturation per unit area revealed the absence of a magnetic dead layer in both systems, with a higher magnetization at saturation obtained for CFA grown on MgO. The key parameters governing the spin-dependent transport through the Pt/CFA interface, including the spin mixing conductance and the spin diffusion length, have been determined from the CFA and the Pt thickness dependence of the damping. BLS has been used to measure the spin wave non-reciprocity via the frequency mismatch between the Stokes and anti-Stokes lines. iDMI has been separated from the contribution of the interface perpendicular anisotropy difference between Pt/CFA and CFA/MgO. Our investigation revealed that both iDMI strength and spin pumping efficiency are higher for CFA-based systems grown on MgO due to its epitaxial growth confirmed by MS-FMR measurements of the in-plane magnetic anisotropy. This suggests that CFA grown on MgO could be a promising material candidate as a spin injection source via spin pumping and for other spintronic applications.
C-S-H Seeds Accelerate Early Age Hydration of Carbonate-Activated Slag and the Underlying Mechanism
Authors: Yuan Bo , Wang Hengkun , Jin Dianshi , Chen Wei
Published: February 2023

The slow hardening process of carbonate-activated slag limits its application as a construction material. This paper aims to provide an acceleration method for the early age hydration of carbonate-activated slag by applying calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) seeds and unveil the underlying mechanism. The results show that the incorporation of C-S-H seeds significantly accelerates the early age reaction of carbonate-activated slag and shortens the setting time. With 4% of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) seeds, the 1d-compressive strength of carbonate activates slag can achieve 25.4 MPa. The C-S-H seeds acts as the preferred nucleation sites for the strength-giving phase C-A-S-H gel and the carbonate-containing phases (e.g., calcite, gaylussite, hydrotalcite, etc.), and accelerates hydration. The dormant period of samples with C-S-H seeds becomes negligible, confirming that the seeding effect that controls the saturation limits of the pore solution is the major reason for the accelerated hydration.
Influence of Strain Rate on Plastic Deformation of the Flange in Steel Road Barrier
Authors: Pitoňák Martin , Ondruš Ján , Zgútová Katarína , Neslušan Miroslav , Moravec Ján
Published: February 2023

This study investigates the influence of strain rate on plastic deformation developed in the flange of a steel road barrier. This effect can be investigated by the use of the uniaxial tensile test. It was found that the strain rate increases yield as well as ultimate strength and gently drops down the elongation at break. Moreover, the accelerated strain rate is connected with matrix heating and increasing the Taylor–Quinney coefficient. Despite the valuable matrix heating and the higher Taylor–Quinney coefficient at the higher strain rates, samples necking is initiated earlier and dislocation density is higher. Flange grains become preferentially aligned along the direction of uniaxial stress, especially at the higher plastic strains. Finally, surface Zn protective layer delamination is initiated quite early beyond the yielding. It is considered that the cracks are due to the different response of the Zn allayer and underlying steel matrix on the plastic straining. Increasing strain rate attenuates the degree of Zn layer delamination.
Mechanical and Microcrack Evolution Characteristics of Roof Rock of Coal Seam with Different Angle of Defects Based on Particle Flow Code
Authors: Deng Qinghai , Liu Jiaqi , Wang Junchao , Lyu Xianzhou
Published: February 2023

The creation of the natural ceiling rock of the coal seam is rife with fractures, holes, and other flaws. The angle of the defects has a significant influence on the mechanical characteristics and crack evolution of coal seam roof rock. Multi-scale numerical simulation software PFC2D gets adapted to realize the crack propagation and coalescence process in the roof rock of a coal seam with different angles of defects under uniaxial compression. The effect of flaw angles on the micro and macro mechanical characteristics of rock is also discovered. The results show that: (1) the defect angle has influence on the stress-strain, elastic modulus, peak strength, peak strain, acoustic emission (AE) and strain energy of roof rock of coal seam. When the defect angles are different, the starting position of the roof rock in a coal seam fracture is different. The quantity of microcracks firstly reduces with an increase in defect angles before gradually increasing. At the same fault angle, the cracks are mostly tensile ones and only a few shear ones. (2) When the defect angle is less than 90°, tensile and shear fractures are mostly localized at the defect’s two tips and propagate along the loading direction. When the defect angle is 90°, the tensile and shear cracks are not concentrated at the tip of the defect. (3) As the defect angles increase, the elastic strain energy rises initially and then falls, and the dissipated energy and total input energy both increase continuously. The elastic strain energy is greatest at the highest strength. The study provides a certain reference for the use of various analysis methods in practical engineering to evaluate the safety and stability of rock samples with pre-existing defects.
Investigating Different Local Polyurethane Coatings Degradation Effects and Corrosion Behaivors by Talaromyces funiculosus via Wire Beam Electrodes
Authors: Hao Xiangping , Yang Kexin , Yuan Yiding , Zhang Dawei , Lu Lin
Published: February 2023

The degradation effect of mold on the coating in a hot and humid environment is one of the important factors that cause layer failure. Combined with the wire beam electrode (WBE) and the traditional surface analysis technique, the local biodegradation of the coatings and the corrosion behaviors of metal substrates can be characterized accurately by a WBE. Herein, a WBE was used to study the degradation impact of Talaromyces funiculosus (T. funiculosus) isolated from a tropical rainforest environment on the corrosion of polyurethane (PU) coating. After immersion for 14 days, the local current density distribution of the WBE surface can reach ~10−3 A/cm2 in the fungal liquid mediums but maintains ~10−7 A/cm2 in sterile liquid mediums. The |Z|0.01Hz value of the high current densities area (#85 electrode) was 1.06 × 109 Ω cm2 in a fungal liquid medium after 14 days of immersion. After being attacked by T. funiculosus, the degradation of the PU was more severe, and there were wrinkles, cracks, blisters, and even micro-holes distributed randomly on the surface of electrodes. This resulted from the self-corrosion caused by the T. funiculosus degradation of the coating; the corrosion caused by the electric coupling effect of the coating was introduced. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and Raman spectra results showed that the corrosion products were flakey and globular, which consisted of γ-FeOOH, γ-Fe2O3, and α-FeOOH.
Molecular Mechanism of Conformational Crossover of Mefenamic Acid Molecules in scCO2
Authors: Oparin Roman D. , Krestyaninov Mikhail A. , Ivlev Dmitry V. , Kiselev Michael G.
Published: February 2023

In this work, we studied conformational equilibria of molecules of mefenamic acid in its diluted solution in scCO2 under isochoric heating conditions in the temperature range of 140–210 °C along the isochore corresponding to the scCO2 density of 1.1 of its critical value. This phase diagram range totally covers the region of conformational transitions of molecules of mefenamic acid in its saturated solution in scCO2. We found that in the considered phase diagram region, the equilibrium of two conformers is realized in this solution. In the temperature range of 140–180 °C, conformer I related to the first, most stable polymorph of mefenamic acid prevails. In the temperature range of 200–210 °C, conformer II, which is related to the second metastable polymorph becomes dominant. Based on the results of quantum chemical calculations and experimental IR spectroscopy data on the mefenamic acid conformer populations, we classified this temperature-induced conformational crossover as an entropy-driven phenomenon.
Utilization of Foamed Glass as an Effective Adsorbent for Methylene Blue: Insights into Physicochemical Properties and Theoretical Treatment
Authors: Al-kroom Hussein , Abdel-Gawwad Hamdy A. , Abd Elrahman Mohamed , Abdel-Aleem Saleh , Saad Ahmed Mohamed , Salama Yasser F. , Qaysi Saleh , Techman Mateusz , Seliem Moaaz K. , Youssf Osama
Published: February 2023

This study reports a potential approach for the valorization of glass waste (GW) that is mainly composed of amorphous silica to prepare lightweight foamed glass (FG). The preparation of FG was achieved by mixing sodium hydroxide with GW powder followed by sintering at a temperature of 800 °C. As-synthesized FG was characterized and applied as an effective adsorbent for the removal of hazardous organic water contaminants, in particular, methylene blue (MB) dye. FG exhibited porosity of 91%, bulk density of 0.65 g/cm3, compressive strength of 4 MPa, and thermal conductivity of 0.27 W/m·K. Theoretical treatment indicated that a monolayer model with one energy site was the best in fitting the removal of MB molecules. The number of MB molecules per active site (n) ranged from 2.20 to 1.70, suggesting vertical orientation and a multi-molecular adsorption mechanism. The density of FG receptor sites (DM) increased with the temperature, and this parameter played a vital role in the adsorption process. The adsorption capacity (Qsat) increased from 255.11 to 305.58 mg/g, which signifies endothermic interactions. MB adsorption on FG was controlled by physical forces such as electrostatic interactions (i.e., the adsorption energies were <20 kJ/mol). The results of this study prove the feasibility of glass waste as an effective and low-cost adsorbent for water remediation.
Anisotropic Hardening of TRIP780 Steel Sheet: Experiments and Analytical Modeling
Authors: Wang Jizhen , Han Miao , Zhang Chong , Rayhan Hasib Md Abu , Li Xvyang , Lou Yanshan
Published: February 2023

By combining experimental and theoretical models, this research investigates the anisotropic hardening behaviors of TRIP780 steel. The specimens of TRIP780 steel were subjected to uniaxial tensile and bulging tests under different loading conditions to obtain hardening data. The experimental results show that the strength and plastic deformation of TRIP780 steel vary with the loading directions, which indicates that TRIP780 steel has anisotropy characteristics. In this paper, the dichotomous method is used to ensure the convexity of the Chen-coupled quadratic and non-quadratic (CQN) function. Comparing the predictions of the hardening behavior of the TRIP780 steel sheet by the Yld2000-2d, Stoughton-Yoon’2009 and Chen-CQN functions, the results show that the Chen-CQN function exhibits the advantages of simple numerical implementation and a more realistic prediction of yield stress compared to the former two, respectively. Comparing the prediction of Chen-CQN function with the experimental hardening data, the results show that the deviation between the experimental data and the experimental response given by the function is always within 3%, and this function maintains an accurate prediction under different stress states, indicating that the Chen-CQN yield function has accuracy and flexibility for the characterization of the yield surface of TRIP780 steel.
Compressive Properties and Energy Absorption Behavior of 316L Steel Foam Prepared by Space Holder Technique
Authors: Hu Guangyu , Xu Guili , Gao Qiang , Feng Zhanhao , Huang Peng , Zu Guoyin
Published: February 2023

The effect of porosity and pore size on the quasi-static compression properties and energy absorption characteristics of the steel foam was investigated in this paper. The 316L steel foams were prepared through powder metallurgy using urea as the space holder. The macrostructure of steel foam and microstructure of the pore walls were characterized, and the quasi-static compression experiments were conducted on the specimens in the axial direction at a strain rate of 10−3 s−1. The results show that the increase in porosity decreases the yield strength and plastic modulus of the steel foam but increases the densification strain of the steel foam. The yield strength of the steel foam decreases significantly when the pore size is 2.37 mm. However, the pore size has little effect on the plastic modulus. Moreover, the energy absorption per volume of the steel foam decreases with increasing porosity at the same strain. The effect of porosity on energy absorption efficiency is greater than that of pore size.
Systematic Experimental Investigation into the Determination of Micromechanical Properties of Hardened Cement Paste Using Nanoindentation—Opportunities and Limitations
Authors: Raupach Kristina , Bogner Andreas , Vogel Michael , Kotan Engin , Dehn Frank
Published: February 2023

The nanoindentation technique is already widely applied in the mechanical characterization of the microstructure of thin films with respect to different materials. Generally, by means of nanoindentation, the hardness and the elastic modulus of materials can be determined with high precision. The focus of these analyses is usually on the materials from the metal, ceramic, and plastics processing industry. The application of nanoindentation in construction science, especially in concrete technology, is a relatively new field of investigation. This study deals with the basic application of nanoindentation for the mechanical characterization of hardened cement paste. In particular, the effects of sample preparation and the selection of the nanoindentation measurement parameters on the obtained results are the main subjects of this investigation. The results re intended to show the opportunities and limitations of analyzing a heterogeneous material such as hardened cement paste. The findings are used to assess the suitability of the nanoindentation method for investigating durability-related damage (e.g., due to freeze–thaw or alkali–silica reaction) in concrete.
The Use of Proteins, Lipids, and Carbohydrates in the Management of Wounds
Authors: de Albuquerque Priscilla Barbosa Sales , Rodrigues Natalie Emanuelle Ribeiro , Silva Priscila Marcelino dos Santos , de Oliveira Weslley Felix , Correia Maria Tereza dos Santos , Coelho Luana Cassandra Breitenbach Barroso
Published: February 2023

Despite the fact that skin has a stronger potential to regenerate than other tissues, wounds have become a serious healthcare issue. Much effort has been focused on developing efficient therapeutical approaches, especially biological ones. This paper presents a comprehensive review on the wound healing process, the classification of wounds, and the particular characteristics of each phase of the repair process. We also highlight characteristics of the normal process and those involved in impaired wound healing, specifically in the case of infected wounds. The treatments discussed here include proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. Proteins are important actors mediating interactions between cells and between them and the extracellular matrix, which are essential interactions for the healing process. Different strategies involving biopolymers, blends, nanotools, and immobilizing systems have been studied against infected wounds. Lipids of animal, mineral, and mainly vegetable origin have been used in the development of topical biocompatible formulations, since their healing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties are interesting for wound healing. Vegetable oils, polymeric films, lipid nanoparticles, and lipid-based drug delivery systems have been reported as promising approaches in managing skin wounds. Carbohydrate-based formulations as blends, hydrogels, and nanocomposites, have also been reported as promising healing, antimicrobial, and modulatory agents for wound management.
Enantioseparation of P-Stereogenic 1-Adamantyl Arylthiophosphonates and Their Stereospecific Transformation to 1-Adamantyl Aryl-H-phosphinates
Authors: Varga Bence , Buna Levente , Vincze Daniella , Holczbauer Tamás , Mátravölgyi Béla , Fogassy Elemér , Keglevich György , Bagi Péter
Published: February 2023

A focused library of 1-adamantyl arylthiophosphonates was prepared in racemic form. An enantioseparation method was developed for P-stereogenic thiophosphonates using (S)-1-phenylethylamine as the resolving agent. Under optimized conditions, three out of the five arylthiophosphonates were prepared in enantiopure form (ee > 99%). The subsequent desulfurization of optically active arylthiophosphonates gave the corresponding H-phosphinates without significant erosion of enantiomeric purity (ee = 95–98%). Hence, this reaction sequence can be considered an alternative method for the preparation of 1-adamantyl aryl-H-phopshinates. The absolute configuration of the (S)-1-adamantyl phenylphosphonothioic acid was assigned using single-crystal XRD and it allowed the confirmation that the removal of the P = S group proceeds with retention of configuration. The organocatalytic applicability of (S)-1-adamantyl phenylphosphonothioic acid was also evaluated as a P-stereogenic Brønsted acid.
Juçara Fruit (Euterpe Edulis Martius) Valorization Combining Emergent Extraction Technologies and Aqueous Solutions of Alkanediols
Authors: Soares Bruna P. , Ferreira Ana M. , Justi Marina , Rodrigues Luiz Gustavo Gonçalves , Oliveira J. Vladimir , Pinho Simão P. , Coutinho João A. P.
Published: February 2023

Anthocyanins from juçara fruits were extracted by pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) or ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), using aqueous solutions of 1,2-alkanediols and glycerol ethers as biobased solvents. The PLE (100 bar, 13 min, 1 mL/min flow rate) in the optimal extraction conditions originated 23.1 mganthocyanins·gdry biomass−1. On the other hand, the UAE was 10 min long, and the optimal conditions using 1,2-propanediol were 42.6 wt%, 160 W, and pH 7.0, leading to 50 mganthocyanins·gdry biomass−1. Extractions at the UAE optimized conditions, with aqueous solutions of five different 1,2-alkanediols and three glycerol ethers were performed, and compared to water and ethanolic extracts. The biobased solvent solutions presented anthocyanin yields up to 33% higher than water, and were shown to be as efficient as ethanol/water, but generated extracts with higher antioxidant capacity. The anthocyanin-rich extract of juçara, obtained with 1,2-propanediol, was used in the production of a natural soap and incorporated into a cream, showing that the addition of the juçara extract resulted in an antioxidant capacity in both products.
Analysis of the Nutritional Value of Diets and Food Choices in Polish Female Ulcerative Colitis Individuals Compared with a Pair-Matched Control Sample
Authors: Głąbska Dominika , Guzek Dominika , Lech Gustaw
Published: February 2023

Ulcerative colitis patients often attribute their symptoms to specific dietary products. Therefore, even though there are no specific dietary recommendations, these patients commonly have dietary restrictions, often with no consultation from their physician or dietitian, as they believe that they may be beneficial for them. The aim of the study was to analyze the nutritional value of diets and food choices in Polish female ulcerative colitis individuals, in comparison with a pair-matched control sample. The study was conducted on a group of 44 Polish female ulcerative colitis individuals being in remission and 44 individuals within a pair-matched control sample, matched by their age and concurrent diseases, excluding those resulting from ulcerative colitis. The analysis of the diet was based on the self-reported data, including 3-day dietary records (to assess the intake of nutrients and food products), as well as the simple open-ended question about food products excluded from their diet. It was stated that Polish female ulcerative colitis individuals were characterized by a lower energy value of diet (p = 0.0043), accompanied by the higher proportion of total protein (p = 0.0128) than the pair-matched control sample. As a result of a lower energy value for ulcerative colitis individuals, the intake of numerous nutrients was also lower (p < 0.05); however, after recalculation per 1000 kcal, ulcerative colitis individuals were characterized by higher total protein (p = 0.0121), starch (p = 0.0009), and vitamin B6 intake (p = 0.0319), as well as lower alcohol intake (p = 0.0464). Similarly, as a result of a lower energy value for ulcerative colitis individuals, the intake of numerous foods was also lower (p < 0.05); however, after recalculation per 1000 kcal, ulcerative colitis individuals were characterized by higher meat (p = 0.0058) and potatoes intake (p = 0.0052), as well as lower legumes (p = 0.0301), chocolate sweets (p = 0.0165), and alcoholic beverages intake (p = 0.0062). For chocolate sweets (p = 0.0134) and alcoholic beverages (p = 0.0091), ulcerative colitis individuals were characterized by a higher frequency of declaration of dietary exclusion. At the same time, ulcerative colitis individuals were characterized by a lower frequency of meeting the recommended intake for magnesium (p = 0.0005), iron (p = 0.0189), vitamin E (p = 0.0389), and vitamin B1 (p = 0.0032). It was concluded that even in remission, there is a risk of inadequate consumption, not meeting the recommended intake, and nutritional deficiencies in the population of female ulcerative colitis patients.
Diet Quality Changes by Educational Level among Adults in Spain from 2017 to 2021
Authors: Romero Isabel , Díez Julia , Del Cura Isabel , Franco Manuel , Gullón Pedro ,   on behalf of the Heart Healthy Hoods Study Group
Published: February 2023

Despite increasing attention on addressing socioeconomic disparities in diet quality, longitudinal studies are scarce. Furthermore, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on diet-related outcomes are yet to be fully understood. We examined changes in diet quality by educational level among adults in Madrid, Spain. We used data from recruitment (in 2017) and from 2021. At baseline, our sample included 1358 adults aged 40–75 years who were free of cardiovascular disease and completed a validated diet quality screener. Of them, 931 answered the survey in the follow-up visit in 2021. We used participants' diet quality index scores (range: 18–54; higher scores indicate better diet quality) as the dependent variable. As our independent variable, we assessed participants’ educational levels (low, medium, and high). We fitted a multinomial regression using the categories of educational level as the main predictor, adjusting for age, sex, country of origin, and household composition. During the study period, 78.0% of participants sustained their diet quality, 11.6% improved it, and 10.4% moved away from a healthier dietary pattern. In descriptive analyses, we observed an increase in diet quality among less-educated females. Unadjusted multinomial models showed that a lower educational level predicted both increases and decreases in diet quality over the period. Even though the median diet quality scores did not change significantly, we observed heterogeneous changes over the four years. Variability within diet, with some improving and some worsening, seems to have increased among participants with lower educational levels. Future studies should look at the determinants of change in these population subgroups.
The Chart Diagnostic System Improves the Diagnostic Accuracy of Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Nomura Ayako , Ishida Takayuki , Hijioka Hiroshi , Yoshimura Takuya , Suzuki Hajime , Nozoe Eturo , Nakamura Norifumi
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To establish a diagnosis method based on imaging findings and histopathological factors associated with cervical lymph node metastasis. Methods: A total of 1587 cervical lymph nodes that were detected using imaging tools in 73 OSCC patients who underwent surgical treatment were enrolled to evaluate the association between imaging findings (long diameter, short diameter, long–short ratio, US findings (hilum and internal echo), contrast effect with enhanced CT, standardized uptake value (SUV) max and SUV average with 18F FDG-Positron Emission Tomography (PET)) and metastatic cervical lymph nodes. In 57 OSCC patients, biopsy specimens were evaluated for histopathologic factors (budding score, lymphatic invasion, vascular invasion, nerve invasion, and YK classification) and the presence of cervical lymph node metastases. Cervical lymph node metastasis was determined based on histopathological examination of the lymph nodes of patients with no metastasis observed 3 years after primary surgery. Results: In total, 22 of the 73 patients had cervical lymph node metastasis pathologically. In the comparison of the presence of metastatic lymph nodes, univariate analysis showed significant differences in cervical lymph node long and short diameter, long/short ratio, internal echo, rim enhancement, SUV max, SUV average, budding score, and vascular invasion. Multivariable analysis showed significant differences in internal echo, rim enhancement, SUV max, and budding score. Conclusions: We propose a chart diagnostic system that combines imaging and histopathological findings to improve the diagnosis of cervical lymph node metastasis.
Smart Biomimetic Nanozymes for Precise Molecular Imaging: Application and Challenges
Authors: Luo Qiao , Shao Ni , Zhang Ai-Chen , Chen Chun-Fang , Wang Duo , Luo Liang-Ping , Xiao Ze-Yu
Published: February 2023

New nanotechnologies for imaging molecules are widely being applied to visualize the expression of specific molecules (e.g., ions, biomarkers) for disease diagnosis. Among various nanoplatforms, nanozymes, which exhibit enzyme-like catalytic activities in vivo, have gained tremendously increasing attention in molecular imaging due to their unique properties such as diverse enzyme-mimicking activities, excellent biocompatibility, ease of surface tenability, and low cost. In addition, by integrating different nanoparticles with superparamagnetic, photoacoustic, fluorescence, and photothermal properties, the nanoenzymes are able to increase the imaging sensitivity and accuracy for better understanding the complexity and the biological process of disease. Moreover, these functions encourage the utilization of nanozymes as therapeutic agents to assist in treatment. In this review, we focus on the applications of nanozymes in molecular imaging and discuss the use of peroxidase (POD), oxidase (OXD), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) with different imaging modalities. Further, the applications of nanozymes for cancer treatment, bacterial infection, and inflammation image-guided therapy are discussed. Overall, this review aims to provide a complete reference for research in the interdisciplinary fields of nanotechnology and molecular imaging to promote the advancement and clinical translation of novel biomimetic nanozymes.
Advances of Artificial Intelligence in Anti-Cancer Drug Design: A Review of the Past Decade
Authors: Wang Liuying , Song Yongzhen , Wang Hesong , Zhang Xuan , Wang Meng , He Jia , Li Shuang , Zhang Liuchao , Li Kang , Cao Lei
Published: February 2023

Anti-cancer drug design has been acknowledged as a complicated, expensive, time-consuming, and challenging task. How to reduce the research costs and speed up the development process of anti-cancer drug designs has become a challenging and urgent question for the pharmaceutical industry. Computer-aided drug design methods have played a major role in the development of cancer treatments for over three decades. Recently, artificial intelligence has emerged as a powerful and promising technology for faster, cheaper, and more effective anti-cancer drug designs. This study is a narrative review that reviews a wide range of applications of artificial intelligence-based methods in anti-cancer drug design. We further clarify the fundamental principles of these methods, along with their advantages and disadvantages. Furthermore, we collate a large number of databases, including the omics database, the epigenomics database, the chemical compound database, and drug databases. Other researchers can consider them and adapt them to their own requirements.
Prognostic Value of CXCL12 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Undergoing Tumor Resection
Authors: Kogue Yurie , Kobayashi Hiroyasu , Nakamura Yutaka , Takano Takatsugu , Furuta Chihiro , Kawano Osamu , Yasuma Taro , Nishimura Tadashi , D’Alessandro-Gabazza Corina N. , Fujimoto Hajime , Gabazza Esteban C. , Kobayashi Tetsu , Fukai Ichiro
Published: February 2023

Adjuvant chemotherapy is commonly indicated in lung cancer patients undergoing surgical therapy because tumor recurrence is frequent. A biomarker that can predict tumor recurrence in the postoperative period is currently unavailable. CXCR4 receptor and its ligand CXCL12 play important roles in metastasis. This study investigated the value of tumor CXCL12 expression to predict prognosis and indicate adjuvant chemotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer patients. This study enrolled 82 non-small cell lung cancer patients. The expression of CXCL12 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The degree of CXCL12 expression was assessed using the Allred score system. Among all subjects, the progression-free survival and overall survival were significantly prolonged in cancer patients with low tumor expression of CXCL12 compared to patients with high tumor expression. Multivariate analysis showed that the increased level of CXCL12 is a significant predictor of progression-free survival and overall survival in NSCLC patients. Among subjects with high tumor CXCL12 expression, progression-free survival and overall survival were significantly improved in patients treated with adjuvant chemotherapy compared to untreated patients. These results suggest the potential value of tumor CXCL12 expression as a marker to predict prognosis and to indicate adjuvant chemotherapy after surgical tumor resection in non-small cell lung cancer patients.
Virtual Clinical Trials Guided Design of an Age-Appropriate Formulation and Dosing Strategy of Nifedipine for Paediatric Use
Authors: Khan Dilawar , Badhan Raj , Kirby Daniel J. , Bryson Simon , Shah Maryam , Mohammed Afzal Rahman
Published: February 2023

The rapid onset of action of nifedipine causes a precipitous reduction in blood pressure leading to adverse effects associated with reflex sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation, including tachycardia and worsening myocardial and cerebrovascular ischemia. As a result, short acting nifedipine preparations are not recommended. However, importantly, there are no modified release preparations of nifedipine authorised for paediatric use, and hence a paucity of clinical studies reporting pharmacokinetics data in paediatrics. Pharmacokinetic parameters may differ significantly between children and adults due to anatomical and physiological differences, often resulting in sub therapeutic and/or toxic plasma concentrations of medication. However, in the field of paediatric pharmacokinetics, the use of pharmacokinetic modelling, particularly physiological-based pharmacokinetics (PBPK), has revolutionised the ability to extrapolate drug pharmacokinetics across age groups, allowing for pragmatic determination of paediatric plasma concentrations to support drug licensing and clinical dosing. In order to pragmatically assess the translation of resultant dissolution profiles to the paediatric populations, virtual clinical trials simulations were conducted. In the context of formulation development, the use of PBPK modelling allowed the determination of optimised formulations that achieved plasma concentrations within the target therapeutic window throughout the dosing strategy. A 5 mg sustained release mini-tablet was successfully developed with the duration of release extending over 24 h and an informed optimised dosing strategy of 450 µg/kg twice daily. The resulting formulation provides flexible dosing opportunities, improves patient adherence by reducing frequent administration burden and enhances patient safety profiles by maintaining efficacious levels of consistent drug plasma levels over a sustained period of time.