bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Xestospongia muta Fraction-7 and Linoleic Acid: Effects on SR-BI Gene Expression and HDL Cholesterol Uptake
Authors: Azemi Nurul Adila , Azemi Ahmad Khusairi , Abu-Bakar Luqman , Sevakumaran Vigneswari , Muhammad Tengku Sifzizul Tengku , Ismail Noraznawati
Published: December 2022

Xestospongia muta is a marine sponge belonging to the family Petrosiidae. It is an important source of biologically active marine natural products, with different kinds of essential fatty acids. Scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) is the main receptor for high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which plays a pivotal role in preventing atherosclerosis. It removes cholesterol from HDL cholesterol, returning lipid-poor lipoprotein into blood circulation. The present study investigated the effects of X. muta Fraction-7 and linoleic acid on SR-BI gene expression and HDL cholesterol uptake. In vitro studies of the activity of X. muta and linoleic acid against the therapeutic target for hypercholesterolemia were conducted using the HDL receptor SR-BI via luciferase assay and HepG2 cells. In the present study, Fraction-7 of X. muta showed the highest expression level of the SR-BI gene via luciferase assay. Profiling of Fraction-7 of X. muta by GC-MS revealed 58 compounds, comprising various fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid. The in vitro study in HepG2 cells showed that the Fraction-7 of X. muta and linoleic acid (an active compound in X. muta) increased SR-BI mRNA expression by 129% and 85%, respectively, compared to the negative control. Linoleic acid increased HDL uptake by 3.21-fold compared to the negative control. Thus, the Fraction-7 of X. muta and linoleic acid have the potential to be explored as adjuncts in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia to prevent or reduce the severity of atherosclerosis development.
Changes in Body Weight, Body Composition, Phase Angle, and Resting Metabolic Rate in Male Patients with Stage IV Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Undergoing Therapy
Authors: Detopoulou Paraskevi , Tsiouda Theodora , Pilikidou Maria , Palyvou Foteini , Tsekitsidi Eirini , Mantzorou Maria , Pezirkianidou Persefoni , Kyrka Krystallia , Methenitis Spyridon , Voulgaridou Gavriela , Zarogoulidis Pavlos , Oikonomidou Rena , Matthaios Dimitris , Porpodis Κonstantinos , Giannakidis Dimitrios , Papadopoulou Sousana K.
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: Cancer treatments can adversely influence body weight status, body composition, phase angle (PhA), and resting metabolic rate (RMR), which could possibly affect disease course. Τhe aim was to assess differences in body composition, PhA, RMR, and related parameters in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients after treatment. Methods: The sample consisted of 82 NSCLC (stage IV) male patients (chemotherapy (C) 15.7%; immunotherapy (I) 13.3%; C + I 25.3%; (C) + radiotherapy (R) 22.9 %; and other 15.5%). Body weight and body composition, PhA, RMR, oxygen consumption (VO2), ventilation rate, and diet were assessed at baseline and at 3 months after initiation of therapy. Results: Reductions in PhA, RMR, VO2, ventilation rate, and intracellular water were observed at follow up. Weight loss was evident for 45% of patients who also had a reduction in lean body mass. In the group under C, lean mass was reduced at follow up (55.3 ± 11.53 vs. 52.4 ± 12.6, p = 0.04) without significant weight changes. In subjects with a low adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MedDietScore < 30), RMR (1940 ± 485 vs. 1730 ± 338 Kcal, p = 0.001), VO2 (277.1 ± 70.2 vs. 247 ± 49.1 mL/min, p = 0.001), and ventilation rate (10.1 ± 2.28 vs. 9. ± 2 2.2 L/min, p = 0.03) were significantly reduced. The changes in body weight were positively related to % of change in fat mass (rho = 0.322, p = 0.003) and absolute lean mass change (rho = 0.534, p < 0.001) and negatively associated with % of change in total body water (rho = −0.314, p = 0.004) (Spearman correlation coefficients). Conclusions: In conclusion, cancer therapy related to reductions in PhA and RMR, while lean mass reduction may be related to the type of treatment. Our results emphasize the importance of a more holistic nutritional and body composition assessment beyond body weight, to better address patients’ needs in clinical practice.
Introduction to the Special Issue—Cardiothoracic Surgical Critical Care: A Future of Distinction
Authors: Bhatt Amar M. , Essandoh Michael K.
Published: December 2022

Critical care after cardiothoracic surgery is an inseparable component of any successful surgical program addressing intrathoracic pathologies, including heart failure treatment with mechanical circulatory support, and respiratory failure requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy [...]
Anticoagulation Management during Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation—A Mini-Review
Authors: Burša Filip , Sklienka Peter , Frelich Michal , Jor Ondřej , Ekrtová Tereza , Máca Jan
Published: December 2022

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been established as a life-saving technique for patients with the most severe forms of respiratory or cardiac failure. It can, however, be associated with severe complications. Anticoagulation therapy is required to prevent ECMO circuit thrombosis. It is, however, associated with an increased risk of hemocoagulation disorders. Thus, safe anticoagulation is a cornerstone of ECMO therapy. The most frequently used anticoagulant is unfractionated heparin, which can, however, cause significant adverse effects. Novel drugs (e.g., argatroban and bivalirudin) may be superior to heparin in the better predictability of their effects, functioning independently of antithrombin, inhibiting thrombin bound to fibrin, and eliminating heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. It is also necessary to keep in mind that hemocoagulation tests are not specific, and their results, used for setting up the dosage, can be biased by many factors. The knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of particular drugs, limitations of particular tests, and individualization are cornerstones of prevention against critical events, such as life-threatening bleeding or acute oxygenator failure followed by life-threatening hypoxemia and hemodynamic deterioration. This paper describes the effects of anticoagulant drugs used in ECMO and their monitoring, highlighting specific conditions and factors that might influence coagulation and anticoagulation measurements.
30 Days Mortality Prognostic Value of POCT Bio-Adrenomedullin and Proenkephalin in Patients with Sepsis in the Emergency Department
Authors: Casalboni Silvia , Valli Gabriele , Terlizzi Ferdinando , Mastracchi Marina , Fidelio Giacomo , De Marco Francesca , Bernardi Caterina , Chieruzzi Anastasia , Curcio Alessia , De Cicco Francesco , Colella Nicola , Papasidero Ilaria Dafne , Tartarone Emanuele , Ruggieri Maria Pia , Di Somma Salvatore
Published: December 2022

Background and Objective: Sepsis is a worldwide severe disease with a high incidence and mortality rate. Sepsis is a frequent cause of admission to the emergency department (ED). Although prognostic scores (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, SOFA; New Early Warning Score, NEWS; Rapid Emergency Medicine Score, REMS) are commonly used for risk stratification in septic patients, many of these scores are of poor utility in the ED. In this setting, biomarkers are promising alternatives, easier to perform and potentially more specific. Bio-adrenomedullin (Bio-ADM) and Proenkephalin (PenKid) seem to have a key role in the development of organ dysfunctions induced by sepsis and, therefore, could help in the risk stratification of patients with sepsis at ED admission. The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of Bio-ADM and PenKid, obtained through a point of care (POCT) device, in predicting 30 days mortality for patients presenting to the ED with sepsis. Methods and Results: In total, 177 consecutive adult patients with a diagnosis of sepsis presenting to the ED of San Giovanni Addolorata Hospital in Rome, Italy, between May 2021 and April 2022 were enrolled in this prospective observational study. For each patient, Bio-ADM and PenKid were obtained at ED admission together with SOFA, NEWS and REMS scores. Next, 30 days follow-up data were collected to evaluate patient mortality. Both biomarkers (Bio-ADM and PenKid) and clinical scores (SOFA, NEWS and REMS) were good predictors of mortality at 30 days, with Bio-ADM and REMS outperforming the others. Moreover, PenKid resulted in being linked with the worsening of kidney function. Conclusions: In patients presenting with sepsis in the ED, Bio-ADM and PenKid, evaluated with a POCT device, predicted 30-day mortality. These two biomarkers seem even more useful when integrated with clinical risk scores at ED admission.
Klatskin Tumor: A Survival Analysis According to Tumor Characteristics and Inflammatory Ratios
Authors: Nechita Vlad-Ionuţ , Moiş Emil , Furcea Luminiţa , Nechita Mihaela-Ancuţa , Graur Florin
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: The aim was to evaluate the association of inflammatory biomarkers with resectability and overall survival in hilar cholangiocarcinoma. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study over 72 consecutive surgical cases of Klatskin tumor over an 11-year period. The sample was divided into two groups: 42 surgical resection cases and 30 unresectable tumors. Values of inflammatory ratios were compared according to the resectability. Log-rank test, univariate, and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the overall survival. Results: Subjects were between 42–87 years old (average age of 64.91 ± 9.15 years). According to the procedure: 58.33% benefited from resection (with a 30.95% R0 resection rate) and 41.66% had palliative surgery. Elevated NLR (neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio), PLR (platelet to lymphocyte ratio), and SII (systemic immune-inflammation index), and lower LMR (lymphocyte to monocyte ratio) at admission were associated with unresectable tumors (p < 0.01). For the multivariate Cox proportional hazard models, increased absolute values of NLR, PLR, and SII were associated with lower survival; no differences were observed for LMR absolute value. The cut-off value of NLR ≥ 6 was associated with lower survival. The median survival time for all subjects was 442 days, with 774 days for the resection group and 147 days for the group with palliative surgery. Conclusions: In hilar cholangiocarcinoma, inflammatory ratios are associated with tumor resectability. Tumor excision conferred an important advantage in survival. Elevated NLR, PLR, and SII values at admission significantly increased the hazard ratio. LMR had no influence on survival.
Novel Experimental Setup for Coulometric Signal Transduction of Ion-Selective Electrodes
Authors: Delmo Naela , Mousavi Zekra , Sokalski Tomasz , Bobacka Johan
Published: December 2022

In this work, a novel and versatile experimental setup for coulometric signal transduction of ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) is introduced and studied. It is based on a constant potential coulometric measurement carried out using a one-compartment three-electrode electrochemical cell. In the setup, a potassium ion-selective electrode (K+- ISE) is connected as the reference electrode (RE). A poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS)-based electrode with a dummy membrane (DM) and a glassy carbon (GC) rod are connected as the working electrode (WE) and counter electrode (CE), respectively. Adding a non-selective dummy membrane to the structure of the WE facilitates the regulation of the measured signal and response time. The results from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements carried out on the WE showed that the time constant is profoundly influenced by the dummy membrane thickness. In addition, the redox capacitance of the PEDOT:PSS film shows a better correlation with the electrode area than the film thickness. Sequential addition/dilution experiments showed the improvement of current and cumulated charge signals in the new setup studied in this work compared to the setup used in the original coulometric signal transduction method. Both conventional ISEs and solid-contact ISEs (SCISEs) were used in this work. The results showed that the coulometric response was independent of the type of ISE used as RE, confirming the versatility of the novel set-up.
Development of La1.7Ca0.3Ni1−yCuyO4+δ Materials for Oxygen Permeation Membranes and Cathodes for Intermediate-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Filonova Elena , Gilev Artem , Maksimchuk Tatyana , Pikalova Nadezhda , Zakharchuk Kiryl , Pikalov Sergey , Yaremchenko Aleksey , Pikalova Elena
Published: December 2022

The La1.7Ca0.3Ni1−yCuyO4+δ (y = 0.0–0.4) nickelates, synthesized via a solid-state reaction method, are investigated as prospective materials for oxygen permeation membranes and IT-SOFC cathodes. The obtained oxides are single-phase and possess a tetragonal structure (I4/mmm sp. gr.). The unit cell parameter c and the cell volume increase with Cu-substitution. The interstitial oxygen content and total conductivity decrease with Cu-substitution. The low concentration of mobile interstitial oxygen ions results in a limited oxygen permeability of Cu-substituted La1.7Ca0.3NiO4+δ ceramic membranes. However, increasing the Cu content over y = 0.2 induces two beneficial effects: enhancement of the electrochemical activity of the La1.7Ca0.3Ni1−yCuyO4+δ (y = 0.0; 0.2; 0.4) electrodes and decreasing the sintering temperature from 1200 °C to 900 °C. Enhanced electrode activity is due to better sintering properties of the developed materials ensuring excellent adhesion and facilitating the charge transfer at the electrode/electrolyte interface and, probably, faster oxygen exchange in Cu-rich materials. The polarization resistance of the La1.7Ca0.3Ni1.6Cu0.4O4+δ electrode on the Ce0.8Sm0.2O1.9 electrolyte is as low as 0.15 Ω cm2 and 1.95 Ω cm2 at 850 °C and 700 °C in air, respectively. The results of the present work demonstrate that the developed La1.7Ca0.3Ni0.6Cu0.4O4+δ-based electrode can be considered as a potential cathode for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells.
Nonwoven/Nanomembrane Composite Functional Sweat Pads
Authors: Qadir Muhammad Bilal , Jalalah Mohammed , Shoukat Muhammad Usman , Ahmad Adnan , Khaliq Zubair , Nazir Ahsan , Anjum Muhammad Naveed , Rahman Abdul , Khan Muhammad Qamar , Tahir Rizwan , Faisal M. , Alsaiari Mabkhoot , Irfan Muhammad , Alsareii Saeed A. , Harraz Farid A.
Published: December 2022

Sweat is a natural body excretion produced by skin glands, and the body cools itself by releasing salty sweat. Wetness in the underarms and feet for long durations causes itchiness and an unpleasant smell. Skin-friendly reusable sweat pads could be used to absorb sweat. Transportation of moisture and functionality is the current challenge that many researchers are working on. This study aims to develop a functional and breathable sweat pad with antimicrobial and quick drying performance. Three layered functional sweat pads (FSP) are prepared in which the inner layer is made of an optimized needle-punched coolmax/polypropylene nonwoven blend. This layer is then dipped in antimicrobial ZnO solution (2, 4, and 6 wt.%), and super absorbent polymer (SAP) is embedded, and this is called a functional nonwoven (FNW1) sheet. Electrospun nanofiber-based nanomembranes of polyamide-6 are optimized for bead-free fibers. They are used as a middle layer to enhance the pad’s functionality, and the third layer is again made of needle-punched optimized coolmax/polypropylene nonwoven sheets. A simple nonwoven-based sweat pad (SSP) is also prepared for comparison purposes. Nonwoven sheets are optimized based on better comfort properties, including air/water vapor permeability and moisture management (MMT). Nonwoven webs having a higher proportion of coolmax show better air permeability and moisture transfer from the inner to the outer layer. Antimicrobial activity of the functional nonwoven layer showed 8 mm of bacterial growth, but SSP and FSP showed only 6 mm of growth against Staphylococcus aureus. FSP showed superior comfort and antibacterial properties. This study could be a footstone toward highly functional sweat pads with remarkable comfort properties.
Cryogenic-Mechanical Properties and Applications of Multiple-Basis-Element Alloys
Authors: Cui Kaixuan , Liaw Peter K. , Zhang Yong
Published: December 2022

Multiple-basis-element (MBE) alloy was defined as the entropy of mixing over 1R (R is the gas constant, 8.31 J/k), and contains at least three principal elements, each one at over 5%. Thus, MBE alloys can include high-entropy alloys (HEAs), medium-entropy alloys (MEAs), amorphous alloys, and some martensite stainless steels, which have been reported to possess excellent cryogenic properties. This paper reviews the progress of the cryogenic-mechanical properties and applications of MBE alloys. It has been concluded that, with the increase of entropy, the ductile-brittle-transition temperatures (DBTT) can be decreased to the liquid helium temperature (4.2 K). In summary, the cryogenic toughness of MBE alloys can be greatly enhanced by entropy adjustments, which is beneficial to their application at low temperatures.
Numerical and Experimental Studies on the Load Characteristics of Geometric Interference of Steel-Aluminum Knurled Interference Fit
Authors: Chen Chi-Peng , Ho Marlon , Li Tomi-T. , Fuh Yiin-Kuen
Published: December 2022

This research studied the knurled interference fits (KIF) jointing process, which involves connection via a shaft and hub. KIF are widely used in many industries and products, but the related research is limited, especially in the case of auto parts. To confirm the optimal parameters for KIF joining, two different simulations in the finite element method (FEM), two hub thicknesses, three geometry versions, and four coefficients of friction (COF) were adopted to simulate the KIF forming process in this study. All the parameters were investigated in detail and accurately referred to experimental examination outcomes. The simulations and the experimental results offered explicit explanations of the relationship between jointing force and geometry dimensions. The hub-forming shape and the simulation of hoop deformation were analyzed, and the analysis results provide useful suggestions for other related industrial research as well.
The Influence of Cooling Rate between Ms and Mf on the Mechanical Properties of Low Alloy 42SiCr Steel Treated by the Q-P Process
Authors: Khalaj Omid , Saebnoori Ehsan , Mašek Bohuslav , Štadler Ctibor , Hassas Parsa , Svoboda Jiří
Published: December 2022

A series of experiments was conducted by quenching and partitioning (Q-P) heat-treated alloys to investigate the effect of cooling intensity on the mechanical properties of low alloy steel 42SiCr. By applying a conventional heat treatment, reasonable high strength can be achieved; however, the alloys become more brittle. To obtain an optimal balance, advanced heat treatment methods like the Q-P process can be used. It consists of quenching to temperatures between martensite start and martensite finish temperatures and holding, which leads to the stabilization of untransformed austenite by carbon partitioning. The martensitic microstructure is then formed with a small volume fraction of retained austenite embedded on a microscopic scale. The material’s deformability can be significantly improved by using such heat treatment processes. Moreover, to improve advanced high strength properties (AHSS), an additional Q-P process can be applied, which leads to erasing the influence of cold forming as well as enhancement of the mechanical properties. Several combinations of the Q-P process with/without partitioning were performed with various cooling rates for both heat treatment methods. Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS), Ductility and Hardness (HV10), as well as the microstructure of the alloys, are compared to evaluate the cooling intensity effects. The cooling rate is found not to be a significant factor influencing mechanical properties, which is a crucial point for practical material heat treatment.
Self-Supporting Structures Produced through Laser Powder Bed Fusion of AlSi10Mg Alloy: Surface Quality and Hole Circularity Tolerance Assessment
Authors: El Hassanin Andrea , Squillace Antonino
Published: December 2022

In the context of the Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM), the elimination and/or reduction of support structures for the parts is a key issue for process optimization in terms of sustainability and surface quality. In this work, the assessment of the surface quality of overhanging thin walls and unsupported holes with different diameters (4, 6, 8 mm) was carried out through confocal microscopy, SEM-EDS analysis and CMM measurements. To this aim, two different types of AlSi10Mg alloy parts were produced with the L-PBF technology, having self-supporting features such as thin walls and holes with different overhang angles. The results showed that (i) unsupported, down-facing surfaces can be printed consecutively without supports up to a 30° overhang angle and with a surface roughness (Sa) ranging from 3 to 40 µm; (ii) unsupported holes can be produced as well, having a mean circularity tolerance ranging from 0.03 to 0.55 mm, regardless of the diameter value; (iii) density and microstructure analysis both revealed that the parts’ integrity was not affected by the design choices.
Study on the Heat Treatment Process of SXQ500/550DZ35 Steel QLT for the Seat Ring and Guide Vane of a Hydropower Station
Authors: Tang Zhenglei , Wang Fuming , Guo Ran , Xu Shaopu , Li Zhongbo , Zhang Yang
Published: December 2022

Because steel plates of 150~300 mm cannot reach the ideal cooling rate under the industrial cooling condition, the development of a super thick plate for the seat ring and guide vane of hydropower stations cannot be successful. In this paper, the influence of the original microstructure and the quenching temperature on the austenite grain size and the analysis of the quenching temperature on the austenite transformation amount were carried out through experiments. The effect of quenching temperature on the content of austenite carbon was calculated by a phase diagram, and then the effect of quenching temperature on the cooling characteristics of the steel was simulated by JMatPro, and the microstructure changes and performance advantages of the QLT heat treatment process were studied and analyzed. Finally, the QLT heat treatment process of SXQ500/550DZ35 steel for the seat ring and guide blade of hydropower stations was researched and formulated (925 °C + 830 °C + 640 °C), and the heat treatment process optimization of a thick steel plate under insufficient cooling conditions during industrial production was solved.
Reprogramming of Cellular Metabolism and Its Therapeutic Applications in Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Nagayama Yuji , Hamada Koichiro
Published: December 2022

Metabolism is a series of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms, providing energy required for cellular processes and building blocks for cellular constituents of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids. Cancer cells frequently reprogram their metabolic behaviors to adapt their rapid proliferation and altered tumor microenvironments. Not only aerobic glycolysis (also termed the Warburg effect) but also altered mitochondrial metabolism, amino acid metabolism and lipid metabolism play important roles for cancer growth and aggressiveness. Thus, the mechanistic elucidation of these metabolic changes is invaluable for understanding the pathogenesis of cancers and developing novel metabolism-targeted therapies. In this review article, we first provide an overview of essential metabolic mechanisms, and then summarize the recent findings of metabolic reprogramming and the recent reports of metabolism-targeted therapies for thyroid cancer.
Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Molecular Mechanisms of Herbal Bioactive Compounds for Sickness Behaviour
Authors: Alotaibi Ghallab Hamoud Sinhat , Shivanandappa Thippeswamy Boreddy , Chinnadhurai Maheswari , Reddy Dachani Sudharshan , Dabeer Ahmad Mahmad , Abdullah Aldaajanii Khalid
Published: December 2022

The host’s response to acute infections or tissue injury is a sophisticated and coordinated adaptive modification called sickness behaviour. Many herbs have been studied for their ability to protect animals against experimentally induced sickness behaviour. However, there is a lack of knowledge and experimental evidence on the use of herbal bioactive compounds (HBACs) in the management of sick behaviour. The goal of this review is to provide a concise summary of the protective benefits and putative mechanisms of action of phytochemicals on the reduction of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sickness behaviour. Relevant studies were gathered from the search engines Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholar, and other scientific databases (between 2000 and to date). The keywords used for the search included “Lipopolysaccharide” OR “LPS” OR “Sickness behaviour” OR “Sickness” AND “Bioactive compounds” OR “Herbal medicine” OR “Herbal drug” OR “Natural products” OR “Isolated compounds”. A total of 41 published articles that represented data on the effect of HBACs in LPS-induced sickness behaviour were reviewed and summarised systemically. There were 33 studies that were conducted in mice and 8 studies in rats. A total of 34 HBACs have had their effects against LPS-induced changes in behaviour and biochemistry investigated. In this review, we examined 34 herbal bioactive components that have been tested in animal models to see if they can fight LPS-induced sickness behaviour. Future research should concentrate on the efficacy, safety, and dosage needed to protect against illness behaviour in humans, because there is a critical shortage of data in this area.
The Importance of HDL-Cholesterol and Fat-Free Percentage as Protective Markers in Risk Factor Hierarchy for Patients with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Mitu Ivona , Dimitriu Cristina-Daniela , Preda Cristina , Mitu Ovidiu , Costache Irina-Iuliana , Miftode Radu-Ștefan , Ciocoiu Manuela
Published: December 2022

This research focused on establishing a hierarchy concerning the influence of various biological markers and body composition parameters on preventing, diagnosing and managing Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). Our cross-sectional cohort study included 104 subjects without any atherosclerotic antecedent pathology, organized in two groups (with and without MetS). All participants underwent clinical and anthropometric measurements, DEXA investigation and blood tests for all MetS criteria, together with adiponectin, leptin, insulin, uric acid and CRP. Based on mathematical logic, we calculated a normalized sensitivity score to compare the predictive power of biomarkers and parameters associated with MetS, upon the prevalence of MetS. Patients with MetS report higher levels of uric acid (p = 0.02), CRP (p = 0.012) and lower levels of adiponectin (p = 0.025) than patients without MetS. The top three biological markers with the highest predictive power of the prevalence of the disease are HDL, insulin, and adiponectin:leptin ratio, and the top three body composition parameters are trunk fat-free percentage, waist-height ratio and trunk fat percentage. Their high sensitivity scores differentiate them from all the other markers analysed in the study. Our findings report relevant scores for estimating the importance of cardiometabolic risks in the prevalence of MetS. The high rank of protective markers, HDL and trunk fat-free percentage, suggest that positive effects have a stronger association with the prevalence of MetS, than negative ones do. Therefore, this risk stratification study provides important support for prevention and management programs regarding MetS.
Microbiome and Metabolome Insights into the Role of the Gastrointestinal–Brain Axis in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Disease: Unveiling Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Zacharias Helena U. , Kaleta Christoph , Cossais François , Schaeffer Eva , Berndt Henry , Best Lena , Dost Thomas , Glüsing Svea , Groussin Mathieu , Poyet Mathilde , Heinzel Sebastian , Bang Corinna , Siebert Leonard , Demetrowitsch Tobias , Leypoldt Frank , Adelung Rainer , Bartsch Thorsten , Bosy-Westphal Anja , Schwarz Karin , Berg Daniela
Published: December 2022

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the prevalence of which is rapidly rising due to an aging world population and westernization of lifestyles, are expected to put a strong socioeconomic burden on health systems worldwide. Clinical trials of therapies against PD and AD have only shown limited success so far. Therefore, research has extended its scope to a systems medicine point of view, with a particular focus on the gastrointestinal–brain axis as a potential main actor in disease development and progression. Microbiome and metabolome studies have already revealed important insights into disease mechanisms. Both the microbiome and metabolome can be easily manipulated by dietary and lifestyle interventions, and might thus offer novel, readily available therapeutic options to prevent the onset as well as the progression of PD and AD. This review summarizes our current knowledge on the interplay between microbiota, metabolites, and neurodegeneration along the gastrointestinal–brain axis. We further illustrate state-of-the art methods of microbiome and metabolome research as well as metabolic modeling that facilitate the identification of disease pathomechanisms. We conclude with therapeutic options to modulate microbiome composition to prevent or delay neurodegeneration and illustrate potential future research directions to fight PD and AD.
Thermal–Hydrodynamic Behavior and Design of a Microchannel Pin-Fin Hybrid Heat Sink
Authors: Guan Xiaonan , Xie Zhihui , Nan Gang , Xi Kun , Lu Zhuoqun , Ge Yanlin
Published: December 2022

A three-dimensional convective heat transfer model of a microchannel pin-fin hybrid heat sink was established. Considering the non-uniform heat generation of 3D stacked chips, the splitting distance of pin-fins was optimized by minimizing the maximum heat sink temperature under different heat fluxes in the hotspot, the Reynolds numbers at the entrance of the microchannel, and the proportions of the pin-fin volume. The average pressure drop and the performance evaluation criteria were considered to be the performance indexes to analyze the influence of each parameter on the flow performance and comprehensive performance, respectively. The results showed that the maximum temperature of the hybrid heat sink attained a minimum value with an increase in the splitting distance. The average pressure drop in the center passage of the microchannel first increased and then decreased. Furthermore, the optimal value could not be simultaneously obtained with the maximum temperature. Therefore, it should be comprehensively considered in the optimization design. The heat flux in the hotspot was positively correlated with the maximum heat sink temperature. However, it had no effect on the flow pressure drop. When the Reynolds number and the pin-fin diameter increased, the maximum heat sink temperature decreased and the average pressure drop of the microchannel increased. The comprehensive performance of the hybrid heat sink was not good at small Reynolds numbers, but it significantly improved as the Reynolds number gradually increased. Choosing a bigger pin-fin diameter and the corresponding optimal value of the splitting distance in a given Reynolds number would further improve the comprehensive performance of a hybrid heat sink.
Buffer Traps Effect on GaN-on-Si High-Electron-Mobility Transistor at Different Substrate Voltages
Authors: Lin Yuan , Kao Min-Lu , Weng You-Chen , Dee Chang-Fu , Chen Shih-Chen , Kuo Hao-Chung , Lin Chun-Hsiung , Chang Edward-Yi
Published: December 2022

Substrate voltage (VSUB) effects on GaN-on-Si high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) power application performance with superlattice transition layer structure was investigated. The 2DEG conductivity and buffer stack charge redistribution can be affected by neutral/ionized donor and acceptor traps. As the donor/acceptor traps are excessively ionized or de-ionized by applying VSUB, the depletion region between the unintentionally doped (UID)/Carbon-doped (C-doped) GaN layer may exhibit a behavior similar to the p–n junction. An applied negative VSUB increases the concentration of both the ionized donor and acceptor traps, which increases the breakdown voltage (BV) by alleviating the non-uniform distribution of the vertical electric field. On the other hand, an applied positive VSUB causes the energy band bending flattener to refill the ionized traps and slightly improves the dynamic Ron degradation. Moreover, the amount of electrons injected into the buffer stack layer from the front side (2DEG channel/Ohmic contact) and the back side (AlN nucleation layer/superlattice transition layer) are asymmetric. Therefore, different VSUB can affect the conductivity of 2DEG through the field effect, buffer trapping effect, and charge redistribution, which can change the electrical performance of the device.
2D Magnetic Manipulation of a Micro-Robot in Glycerin Using Six Pairs of Magnetic Coils
Authors: Fan Qigao , Lu Jiawei , Jia Jie , Qu Juntian
Published: December 2022

This paper demonstrates the control system of a single magnetic micro-robot driven by combined coils. The combined coils consist of three pairs of Helmholtz coils and three pairs of Maxwell coils. The rotating magnetic field, gradient magnetic field, and combined magnetic field model of the combined coils were analyzed. To make the output magnetic field quickly converge to the reference point without steady-state error, the discrete-time optimal controller was designed based on the auto disturbance rejection technology. We have designed a closed-loop controller based on a position servo. The control system includes the position control and direction control of the micro-robot. To address problems with slow sampling frequency in visual feedback and inability to feed real-time position back to the control system, a Kalman filter algorithm was used to predict the position of the micro-robot in two-dimensional space. Simulations and experiments were carried out based on the proposed structure of combined coils and control scheme. The experimental results demonstrated the uniformity and excellent dynamic performance of the generated magnetic field.
Experimental Investigation on the Machinability Improvement in Magnetic-Field-Assisted Turning of Single-Crystal Copper
Authors: Wu Xian , Zhou Yu , Fang Congfu , Zhu Laifa , Jiang Feng , Sun Ke , Li Yuan , Lin Yiyang
Published: December 2022

The single-point diamond-turning operation is a commonly used method for ultra-precision machining of various non-ferrous materials. In this paper, a magnetic field was introduced into a single-point diamond-turning system, and magnetic-field-assisted turning experiments were carried out. The results revealed that the magnetic field affects the metal-cutting process in the form of the cutting force, chip morphology, and surface quality. Compared with traditional turning, magnetic-field assisted turning increases the cutting force by 1.6 times, because of the additional induced Lorentz force, and reduces the cutting-force ratio and friction coefficient on the rake surface by 16%, with the improved tribological property of the tool/chip contact-interface. The chip morphology in the magnetic-field-assisted turning shows the smaller chip-compression ratio and the continuous side-morphology. With the magnetoplasticity effect of the metal material and the friction reduction, magnetic-field-assisted turning is helpful for improving metal machinability and achieving better surface-quality.
Recent Progress in Blue Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Emitters and Their Applications in OLEDs: Beyond Pure Organic Molecules with Twist D-π-A Structures
Authors: Gao Yiting , Wu Siping , Shan Guogang , Cheng Gang
Published: December 2022

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials, which can harvest all excitons and emit light without the use of noble metals, are an appealing class of functional materials emerging as next-generation organic electroluminescent materials. Triplet excitons can be upconverted to the singlet state with the aid of ambient thermal energy under the reverse inter-system crossing owing to the small singlet–triplet splitting energy (ΔEST). This results from a specific molecular design consisting of minimal overlap between the highest occupied molecular orbital and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital, due to the spatial separation of the electron-donating and electron-releasing part. When a well-designed device structure is applied, high-performance blue-emitting TADF organic light-emitting diodes can be realized with an appropriate molecular design. Unlike the previous literature that has reviewed general blue-emitting TADF materials, in this paper, we focus on materials other than pure organic molecules with twist D-π-A structures, including multi-resonance TADF, through-space charge transfer TADF, and metal-TADF materials. Cutting-edge molecules with extremely small and even negative ΔEST values are also introduced as candidates for next-generation TADF materials. In addition, OLED structures used to exploit the merits of the abovementioned TADF emitters are also described in this review.
Absorption Performances of PLA-Montmorillonite Nanocomposites Thin Films in Salisbury and Rozanov Configurations: Influence of Aging and Mechanical Recycling
Authors: Sidi Salah Lakhdar , Ouslimani Nassira , Danlée Yann , Huynen Isabelle
Published: December 2022

The present paper aims to address the crucial concern of pollution induced by growing plastic waste and electromagnetic interference (EMI). Nanocomposites combining poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and organo-modified montmorillonite (OMMT) are synthesized and compression molded into thin films. A first set of samples, referred as virgin, was kept as is, while a second set of samples were photochemically, thermally and hydrolytically aged before mechanical recycling via extruding and second compression molding, resulting in the so-called recycled composite. The electromagnetic (EM) properties with a focus on microwave absorption performances of virgin and recycled samples are compared for various thicknesses and weight concentrations of OMMT in PLA matrix. The EM performances are gauges by Rozanov and Salisbury structures that consist in one- and two-layer stacks of composite films back-coated by a metal foil. Characterization in Rozanov configuration shows an average absorption index over the Ka band of 29.3% and 21.1% for, respectively, virgin and recycled PLA reinforced with 4 wt.% OMMT. An optimization of the film thickness is proposed; up to 61.85% and 80% of absorption with a thickness of 1.4 mm and 3.75 mm, respectively, is reached with a metal back-coated rPLA-4%OMMT film. Characterization in Salisbury configuration gives advantage to the recycled structure with an average absorption of 49.6% for a total thickness of 1.4 mm. The requirements of EMI shielding are met by PLA-OMMT composites with a certain benefit of recycling process on EM performance.
Oral Microorganisms and Biofilms: New Insights to Defeat the Main Etiologic Factor of Oral Diseases
Authors: Bertolini Martinna , Costa Raphael , Barão Valentim , Villar Cristina Cunha , Retamal-Valdes Belen , Feres Magda , Silva Souza João
Published: December 2022

The oral cavity presents a highly diverse community of microorganisms due to the unique environmental conditions for microbial adhesion and growth [...]
Discovery of Seismites in the Carboniferous Formation of the Shibei Sag (China) and Its Petroleum Geological Significance
Authors: Zhang Kuihua , Wang Yarong , Zhang Guanlong , Xu Tao , Xiong Wei , Wang Shengzhu , Ma Ji , Sun Tingbin
Published: December 2022

To promote oil and gas exploration of the Carboniferous formation in the Shibei sag, the northeastern margin of Junggar Basin, recently drilled rocks from Well ZB6 with typical seismics were characterized. Through systematic core observation, the identification marks of seismites were described, a vertical sequence of seismites was established, and its oil and gas geological significance was analyzed. The results show that the seismites have typical identification marks, such as soft-sediment deformation structures (including five typical marks: liquefied stone vein, liquefied crinkled deformation structure, ball–pillow structure, flame structure and load cast, water release structure and liquefied breccia), brittle fracture structures (including three typical marks: seismic fractures, synsedimentary microfractures and seismic fracture rock) and special rock types, such as seismic grain-supported conglomerates. The stratigraphic succession reconstructed in Well ZB6 was characterized, from base to top, by (1) a basal non-seismic interval; (2) a seismic interval made up of a grain-supported conglomerate level, brittle fracture level, soft-sediment deformation level; and (3) a non-seismic interval. The discovery of seismites has oil and gas geological significance for improving reservoir performance and forming favorable source–reservoir–cap assemblages. The research describes the new reservoir genetic type and exploration direction of the Carboniferous formation in the Shibei sag (China), which has important guiding significance for the next step of oil and gas exploration.
Use of the Far Infrared Spectroscopy for NaCl and KCl Minerals Characterization—A Case Study of Halides from Kłodawa in Poland
Authors: Chruszcz-Lipska Katarzyna , Zelek-Pogudz Sylwia , Solecka Urszula , Solecki Marek Leszek , Szostak Elżbieta , Zborowski Krzysztof Kazimierz , Zając Michał
Published: December 2022

The paper presents research on chloride minerals of natural origin from Kłodawa (Poland), i.e., colorless, blue and purple halite as well as colorless sylvite. Selected samples of minerals were studied by chemical analysis (ICP-OES, ICP-MS, titration methods) and crystallographic measurements. Then, for the tested halides, research was carried out using far-infrared spectroscopy. Spectroscopic studies confirmed the simple way of distinguishing NaCl and KCl minerals using far-infrared spectroscopy, known in the literature. The novelty is that the article presents for the first time the experimental far infrared spectra of natural blue and purple halite. It was observed that the blue (178 cm−1) and purple (176 cm−1) halites have the strongest infrared band slightly shifted towards higher wavenumbers compared to colorless halite (174 cm−1). As part of the work, the infrared spectra of the crystal structure models of sodium and potassium chloride were calculated for the first time using the density functional theory (with the B3LYP functional and the 6-31G* basis set, 125-atom model). The proposed approach can be used not only as a powerful method differentiating NaCl and KCl minerals, but it can also help with understanding of different defects in crystal lattices for naturally occurring halides and crystals of other minerals.
The Role of Microorganisms in the Nucleation of Carbonates, Environmental Implications and Applications
Authors: Robles-Fernández Ana , Areias Camila , Daffonchio Daniele , Vahrenkamp Volker , Sánchez-Román Mónica
Published: December 2022

Microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) is an important process in the synthesis of carbonate minerals, and thus, it is widely explored as a novel approach with potential for many technological applications. However, the processes and mechanisms involved in carbonate mineral formation in the presence of microbes are not yet fully understood. This review covers the current knowledge regarding the role of microbial cells and metabolic products (e.g., extracellular polymeric substances, proteins and amino acids) on the adsorption of divalent metals, adsorption of ionic species and as templates for crystal nucleation. Moreover, they can play a role in the mineral precipitation, size, morphology and lattice. By understanding how microbes and their metabolic products promote suitable physicochemical conditions (pH, Mg/Ca ratio and free CO32− ions) to induce carbonate nucleation and precipitation, the manipulation of the final mineral precipitates could be a reality for (geo)biotechnological approaches. The applications and implications of biogenic carbonates in areas such as geology and engineering are presented and discussed in this review, with a major focus on biotechnology.
Bi-Ag-Sulfosalts and Sulfoarsenides in the Ruwai Zn-Pb-Ag Skarn Deposit, Central Borneo, Indonesia
Authors: Dana Cendi D. P. , Agangi Andrea , Idrus Arifudin , Lai Chun-Kit , Simbolon Doly R.
Published: December 2022

The Ruwai skarn deposit is located in the Schwaner Mountain complex within the central Borneo gold belt and is currently considered the largest Zn skarn deposit in Indonesia. The deposit has been known to host Zn-Pb-Ag mineralization in the form of massive sulfide ore bodies; however, the occurrence of Ag-bearing minerals has not been identified yet. This study documents the mineralogical characteristics of several Bi-Ag sulfosalts and sulfoarsenides, as well as their chemical compositions. Ten Bi-Ag sulfosalts were identified, including native bismuth, tetrahedrite, cossalite, tsumoite, bismuthinite, joseite-B, Bi6Te2S, Bi-Pb-Te-S, Bi-Ag-S, and Bi-Te-Ag. Three sulfoarsenides were identified, including arsenopyrite, glaucodot, and alloclasite. The occurrence of Bi-Ag sulfosalts is typically associated with massive sulfide mineralization, although tsumoite can also be found associated with massive magnetite. In terms of sulfoarsenides, both arsenopyrite and glaucodot are associated with massive sulfide mineralization, whereas alloclasite is associated with massive magnetite mineralization. The Bi-bearing minerals are characterized by irregular, bleb-like texture or patch morphology, and occur either as free grains or inclusions within sulfides, such as galena or pyrite. Tetrahedrite typically has an anhedral shape with a rim or atoll texture surrounding sphalerite or galena. In contrast, sulfoarsenides are typically found as euhedral–subhedral grains where glaucodot typically is rimmed by arsenopyrite. Both Bi-Ag sulfosalt and sulfoarsenides were formed during the retrograde stage under high oxidation and a low sulfidation state condition. The ore-forming temperature based on arsenopyrite geothermometry ranges from 428 °C to 493 °C.