bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Effect of Niobium on the High Temperature Oxidation Resistance of Ferritic Stainless Steel
Authors: Zhu En , Xia Dianxiu , Chen Peidun , Han Qing , Wang Xuelin , Liu Zhiheng , Jiang Kun
Published: December 2023

More and more cars are installing urea selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems to solve the problem of exhaust emissions, which often operates at high temperatures in the exhaust system and is prone to failure of the exhaust pipe due to high-temperature oxidation. And niobium containing ferritic stainless steel has been widely used in the manufacturing of automotive exhaust pipes. In order to extend the service life of ferrite stainless steel exhaust pipes, niobium plays a crucial role as an added alloying element. The solid solution and precipitation of niobium in ferritic stainless steel will give ferritic stainless steel more excellent high temperature resistance. The precipitation of Nb can change the organizational structure in steel and refine the grains. However, if the content is not properly controlled, large particles of (Nb, Ti) C will precipitate, which will reduce the high temperature oxidation resistance. In this paper, the high temperature oxidation behavior of two kinds of ferritic stainless steels with different Nb content at 700 °C, 800 °C and 900 °C was studied. The microstructure of the oxide film on the surface of the material, the thickness of the oxide layer on the cross section, the distribution of chemical composition, the existence form and distribution of Nb element were analyzed by SEM, EDS, XRD and TEM. The results show that the higher the niobium content, the better the high temperature oxidation resistance, and the higher the temperature, the more obvious the high temperature oxidation resistance of niobium. This is because the high Nb content steel is easy to precipitate NbN and other Nb-containing precipitates at the grain boundary, which is helpful to the high temperature resistance. In the case of less Nb content, its ability to generate (Nb, Ti) C precipitates and coarsen at high temperatures reduces its high-temperature resistance.
Flame Imaging Technology Based on 64-Pixel Area Array Sensor
Authors: Huang Xiaodong , Hao Xiaojian , Pan Baowu , Liang Xiaodong , Wang Zheng , Feng Shenxiang , Pei Pan , Zhang Heng
Published: December 2023

High-resolution flame temperature images are essential indicators for evaluating combustion conditions. Tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) is an effective combustion diagnostic method. In actual engineering, due to the limitation of line-of-sight (LOS) measurement, TDLAS technology has the problems of small data volume and low dimensionality in measuring combustion fields, which seriously limits the development of TDLAS in combustion diagnosis. This article demonstrates a TDLAS imaging method based on a 64-pixel area array sensor to reconstruct the two-dimensional temperature field of the flame. This paper verifies the robustness of the Algebraic Reconstruction Technique (ART) algorithm through numerical simulation and studies the effects of temperature, concentration, and pressure on the second harmonic intensity based on the HITRAN database. The two-dimensional temperature field of the flame was reconstructed, and reconstruction accuracy was verified using thermocouples. The maximum relative error was 3.71%. The TDLAS detection system based on a 64-pixel area array sensor provides a way to develop high-precision, high-complexity flame temperature measurement technology.
Septic Transfusion Reactions Involving Burkholderia cepacia Complex: A Review
Authors: Salamanca-Pachon Margarita , Guayacan-Fuquene Nohora Isabel , Garcia-Otalora Michel-Andres
Published: December 2023

This review was conducted to assess the global incidence of transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs) caused by contamination of blood components with the Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc). Our search encompassed various specialized databases such as Medline/PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Scielo, ScienceDirect, and ClinicalKey. An analysis of the literature revealed a total of eleven reported cases where blood components contaminated with Bcc had been transfused, resulting in sepsis among the affected patients. Of these cases, eight were documented in the literature, while the remaining three occurred within the institution involving the authors of this review. A comparative examination was conducted, considering factors such as primary diagnosis, transfused blood component, time elapsed between transfusion and manifestation of symptoms, administration of antibiotics, and final outcome. Interestingly, regardless of the storage temperature, all blood components were found to be susceptible to Bcc contamination. Furthermore, the cases investigated revealed diverse sources of contamination, and it was observed that all the affected patients had compromised immune systems due to underlying illnesses. Based on these findings, a series of preventive strategies were derived to mitigate and decrease the occurrence of similar cases.
Ten-Year Analysis of Bacterial Colonisation and Outcomes of Major Burn Patients with a Focus on Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Gomersall Jenny , Mortimer Kalani , Hassan Deniz , Whitehead Kathryn A. , Slate Anthony J. , Ryder Steven F. , Chambers Lucy E. , El Mohtadi Mohamed , Shokrollahi Kayvan
Published: December 2023

A retrospective descriptive study included patients admitted with severe burns over the course of 10 years (2008–2018). Across all patients, there were 39 different species of bacteria, with 23 species being Gram-negative and 16 being Gram-positive bacteria, with also five different species of fungi cultured. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most commonly isolated organism, with 57.45% of patients having a positive culture. There was a significant difference in the number of P. aeruginosa isolated from patients that acquired their burns at work, in a garden, inside a vehicle, in a garage or in a public place. In patients that were positive for P. aeruginosa, the number of operations was higher (2.4) and the length of stay was significantly increased (80.1 days). Patients that suffered from substance abuse demonstrated significantly higher numbers of isolated P. aeruginosa (14.8%). Patients that suffered from both mental health illness and substance abuse demonstrated significantly higher numbers of P. aeruginosa isolated (18.5%). In the P. aeruginosa-negative group, there were significantly fewer patients that had been involved in a clothing fire. Furthermore, in the P. aeruginosa-negative patient cohort, the mortality rate was significantly higher (p = 0.002). Since the incidence of P. aeruginosa was also associated with a decreased mortality rate, it may be that patients admitted to hospital for shorter periods of time were less likely to be colonised with P. aeruginosa. This study demonstrates novel factors that may increase the incidence of P. aeruginosa isolated from burn patients.
Antileishmanial and Antitrypanosomes Drugs for the Current Century
Authors: Alunda José María
Published: December 2023

Human infections by trypanosomatids are widely distributed and prevalent in the tropical and subtropical regions. Diseases caused by Trypanosoma and Leishmania have variable clinical outcomes, ranging from self-healing to fatality, and are considered Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD). In addition, animal trypanosomiases have a significant impact on animal health and production, apart from their potential role as reservoirs in zoonotic species. Control of these infections is progressing and, in some cases (such as human African trypanomiasis (HAT)), significant reductions have been achieved. In the absence of effective vaccination, chemotherapy is the most used control method. Unfortunately, the therapeutic arsenal is scarce, old, and of variable efficacy, and reports of resistance to most antiparasitic agents have been published. New drugs, formulations, or combinations are needed to successfully limit the spread and severity of these diseases within a One Health framework. In this Special Issue, contributions regarding the identification and validation of drug targets, underlying mechanisms of action and resistance, and potential new molecules are presented. These research contributions are complemented by an update revision of the current chemotherapy against African Trypanosoma species, and a critical review of the shortcomings of the prevailing model of drug discovery and development.
Geophysical Constraints to the Geological Evolution and Genesis of Rare Earth Element–Thorium–Uranium Mineralization in Pegmatites at Alces Lake, SK, Canada
Authors: Poliakovska Kateryna , Annesley Irvine R. , Hajnal Zoltan
Published: December 2023

This investigation establishes an integrated method for rare earth elements (REE) exploration through a very promising and advanced exploration prospect in the Alces Lake area (SK, Canada) by assessing the integrated analysis of several multisource geophysical datasets. The resulting outcome provides important lithostructural information to the well-exposed, mineralized middle-to-lower crust at Alces Lake, comprising deep-seated poly-phase folds, ductile shear zones, and brittle faults. Geophysical–geological models of the Alces Lake property were constructed at different scales. The area of interest is located within the Beaverlodge Domain, about 28 km north of the Athabasca Basin’s northern margin. It contains some of the highest-grade rare earth elements (REE) in the world with the REE hosted predominantly in monazites within quartzo-feldspathic granitic to biotite–garnet–monazite–zircon-rich restite-bearing/cumulate mush melt pegmatites of anatectic origin (abyssal). Geophysical magnetic, gravity, and radiometric data were used together with Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) images to facilitate the processing, modeling, and interpretation. Consequently, major structures were identified at different scales; however, the emphasis was given to studying those at the district/camp scale. The REE zones discovered to date occur within a large district-scale refolded synformal anticline. The eastern limb of this folded structure comprises a 30–40 km long, NW-trending shear zone/fault corridor with deep-seated structural crustal roots that may have served as the major pathway for ascending fluids/melts and facilitated the emplacement of mineralization. Thus, shear zones, faults, and folds in combination with lithological contacts/rheological contrasts appear to control residual/cumulate pegmatite emplacement and monazite deposition. Anomalies obtained from the airborne equivalent thorium survey data prove to be the most useful for REE pegmatite exploration. The results herein provide new interpretation and modeling perspectives leading to a better understanding of the distribution and lithostructural controls of REE on the property, and to new guidelines for future exploration programs at Alces Lake and elsewhere in northern Saskatchewan.
3,3-Disubstituted 3,4-Dihydro-1,2,4-benzotriazines: Chemistry, Biological Activity, and Affinity to Sigma Receptors
Authors: Sparatore Fabio , Sparatore Anna
Published: December 2023

By reducing the 2-nitrophenylhydrazone of cyclohexanone with sodium dithionite, an unexpected yellow compound was obtained instead of the corresponding colorless amino derivative. Many years later, the structure of this compound, namely, cyclohexane-3-spiro-3,4-dihydro-1,2,4-benzotriazine, was demonstrated. From that time, the reduction of 2-nitrophenylhydrazones of different kinds of ketones, followed by air oxidation of the initially formed amino compounds, has represented a general way to synthesize a variety of 3,3-disubstituted 3,4-dihydro-1,2,4-benzotriazines. Many derivatives have been obtained so far by a single research group, and most of them have demonstrated interesting pharmacological activities, mainly antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic effects and other activities with lower diffusion. Moreover, 3,3-disubstituted 3,4-dihydro-1,2,4-benzotriazines represent a novel class of ligands for sigma receptors, with nanomolar affinity to the σ1 subtype. This property might promote the development of agents for cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and proliferative pathologies. The present commentary, by collecting compounds and biological results obtained so far, intends to celebrate the centennial of the discovery of the first member of this class of compounds and to promote further investigation in the field.
The Strength and Fire Properties of Paper Sheets Made of Phosphorylated Cellulose Fibers
Authors: Tavakoli Mehrnoosh , Mazela Bartłomiej , Grześkowiak Wojciech , Proch Jędrzej , Mleczek Mirosław , Perdoch Waldemar
Published: December 2023

Phosphorylated cellulose can be an intrinsic flame retardant and a promising alternative for halogenated fire inhibitors. In this study, the mixture of di-ammonium hydrogen phosphate (DAP) and urea (U), containing phosphate and nitrogen groups, was applied to attain fire inhibitor properties. Functional groups of cellulose were grafted with phosphorous by keeping the constant molar ratio of 1/1.2/4.9 between anhydroglucose units of cellulose/DAP/U in different concentrations of bleached kraft pulp. Phosphorus concentrations were determined using the ICP hrOES method, and paper sheets were made using the Rapid Köthen apparatus. The tensile strength of phosphorylated cellulose increased twice compared with unmodified cellulose when the phosphorous concentration increased to 10,000 g/kg. An increase in the tensile index comes from the higher freeness of pulp and cross-linking of the phosphorous group between cellulose fibers. Remarkable fire retardancy effects were achieved in cellulose concentrations above 5 wt%. The raised phosphorous concentration above 10,000 g/kg due to the phosphorylation process caused the formation of a char layer on a cellulose surface and the nonflammable gas emission. That effect was indirectly confirmed by reducing the combustion temperature and HRR by 50 and 45%, respectively. Due to increasing phosphorus concentration in cellulose sheets, cellulose’s fire and strength properties increased significantly.
Polyphenols-Rich Extract of Calotropis procera Alone and in Combination with Trichoderma Culture Filtrate for Biocontrol of Cantaloupe Wilt and Root Rot Fungi
Authors: Nofal Ashraf M. , Hamouda Ragaa A. , Rizk Amira , El-Rahman Mohamed Abd , Takla Adel K. , Galal Hoda , Alqahtani Mashael Daghash , Alharbi Basmah M. , Elkelish Amr , Shaheen Sabery
Published: December 2023

Fungal diseases have always been a major problem for cantaloupe crops; however, synthetic fungicides are hazardous to humans and the environment. Consequently, a feasible alternative to fungicides without side effects could be by using bio agents and naturally occurring plants with antibacterial potential. This study has achieved a novel procedure for managing wilt and root rot diseases by potentially using Trichoderma sp. culture filtrates in consortium with plant extract of Calotropis procera, Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum, and Pythium ultimum, which were isolated from infected cantaloupe roots with identified root rot symptoms. The antagonistic activity of four Trichoderma isolates and analysis of antibiotics and filtrate enzymes of the most active Trichoderma isolate were determined as well as phytochemical analysis of C. procera plant extract using HPLC-UV. The obtained results showed that all Trichoderma isolates considerably lowered the radial growth of P. ultimum, R. solani, and F. oxysporum in varying degrees. The scanning electron micrographs illustrate the mycoparasitic nature of Trichoderma sp. on F. oxysporum. The phytochemical analysis of C. procera indicated that phenolic contents were the major compounds found in extracts, such as vanillin (46.79%), chlorogenic acid (30.24%), gallic acid (8.06%), and daidzein (3.45%) but including only a low amount of the flavonoid compounds rutin, naringenin, and hesperetin. The Pot experiment’s findings showed that cantaloupe was best protected against wilting and root rot diseases when it was treated with both Trichoderma sp. culture filtrates (10%) and C. procera extract of (15 mg/mL), both alone and in combination. This study demonstrates that the application of bio agent Trichoderma spp. filtrate with C. procera phenol extract appears useful for controlling wilting and root rot disease in cantaloupe. This innovative approach could be used as an alternative to chemical fungicide for the control of wilting and rot root diseases.
Size-Independent Nucleation and Growth Model of Potassium Sulfate from Supersaturated Solution Produced by Stirred Crystallization
Authors: Zheng Yayuan
Published: December 2023

This paper explores the kinetics of the crystallization of potassium sulfate in a stirred bed crystallizer through experimental investigation. Employing classical nucleation theory, the homogeneous and heterogeneous nucleation mechanisms of potassium sulfate were investigated. The induction time and critical nucleation parameters, including the surface tension (γ), critical nucleation radius (r*), critical nucleation free energy (ΔG*), and critical nucleation molecule number (i*), were meticulously determined under varying temperatures and supersaturation ratios. The experimental findings revealed that as the temperature and supersaturation ratio increased, the induction time, critical nucleation free energy, critical nucleation radius, and critical molecule number decreased whereas the nucleation rate increased. The crystalline shape remains relatively unaltered with respect to temperature and supersaturation ratio, yet the particle size (D10, D50, D90) increases as the supersaturation and temperature increase. The variations in the measured nucleation parameters align well with the predictions of classical nucleation theory. Furthermore, the kinetic equations of crystal nucleation and the growth rate in a stirred crystallization system were fitted using population balance equations. The results demonstrate that the growth rate increases with increasing supersaturation and stirring rates. Additionally, the effects of the parameters in the nucleation rate equation suggested that the suspension density exerted the greatest influence, followed by the supersaturation ratio and stirring rate. This extensive research provides invaluable theoretical guidance for optimizing the crystallization process and designing industrial crystallizers.
Studies of the Immunomodulatory Activity of Polysaccharides from the Stem of Cynomorium songaricum Based on Intestinal Microbial Analysis
Authors: Lv Tong , Chen Jiarong , He Zhongmei , Chen Weijia , Zong Ying , Du Rui
Published: December 2023

Polysaccharides are the main effective components of Cynomorium songaricum’s stem that perform biological activities and have positive impacts on immune enhancement. In this study, the polysaccharide CSP-III of Cynomorium songaricum’s stem was isolated using a DEAE-52 cellulose column through Sephadex G-100 gel column chromatography. Upon analysis, the monosaccharide composition of CSP-III included Mannose (Man), Glucuronic acid (GlcA), Galacturonic acid (GalA), Rhamnose (Rha), Glucose (Glc), Galactose (Gal), and Arabinose (Ara), at a molar ratio of 0.01:0.11:0.03:0.57:0.02:0.32:1. The molecular weight of CSP-III was 4018234 Da. Meanwhile, the capacity of CSP-III, at various concentrations, to stimulate the proliferation of mouse spleen lymphocytes in vitro was compared, and the influence of CSP-III on cell proliferation was examined using RAW264.7 mouse mononuclear macrophages as a model. The influence of CSP-III on the expression of important phosphorylating proteins in the MAPK signaling pathway was initially analyzed by Western blotting. In RAW264.7 cells, CSP-III promoted the phosphorylation of JNK proteins, which thus activated the MAPK signaling cascade and exerted immunomodulatory effects. Moreover, according to in vivo studies using cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppression mouse models, CSP-III improved the CTX-induced histopathological damage, promoted T and B lymphocyte proliferation, upregulated CD4+ and CD8+ T-lymphocyte counts in the spleen, increased the serum levels of IgG and IgM, and activated three essential proteins of the MAPK signaling pathway. As revealed by analysis of intestinal flora, CSP-III improved the immune function by maintaining the homeostasis of the bacterial flora by boosting the relative abundances of some beneficial bacterial groups, such as Bacteroidetes, Desmodium, and Actinomyces, and reducing the relative abundance of Aspergillus phylum. Through in vitro and in vivo experiments, our present study demonstrates that polysaccharides from the stem of Cynomorium songaricum possess strong immunoregulatory effects. Findings in this work provide theoretical support for the potential application of Cynomorium songaricum in the field of health food.
Enhancing Sodium-Ion Energy Storage of Commercial Activated Carbon by Constructing Closed Pores via Ball Milling
Authors: Wang Xiaojie , Fang Qian , Zheng Tiejun , Xu Yanyan , Dai Rui , Qiao Zhijun , Ruan Dianbo , Wang Yuzuo
Published: December 2023

Mechanical ball milling is a prevalent technology for material preparation and also serves as a post-treatment method to modify electrode materials, thus enhancing electrochemical performances. This study explores the microstructure modification of commercial activated carbon through mechanical ball milling, proving its efficacy in increasing sodium-ion energy storage. The evolution of activated carbon’s physical and chemical properties during ball milling was systematically examined. It was observed that the quantity of closed pores and the graphitization degree in activated carbon increased with extended ball milling duration. The sodium storage mechanism in activated carbon transitions to an insertion-pore filling process, significantly elevating platform capacity. Additionally, ball-milled activated carbon demonstrates remarkable long-term cycling stability (92% capacity retention over 200 cycles at 200 mA g−1) and rate performance. This research offers a novel approach to developing advanced anode materials for sodium-ion batteries.
Liver-Targeting Nanoplatforms for the Induction of Immune Tolerance
Authors: Kusumoputro Sydney , Au Christian , Lam Katie H. , Park Nathaniel , Hyun Austin , Kusumoputro Emily , Wang Xiang , Xia Tian
Published: December 2023

Liver-targeting nanoparticles have emerged as a promising platform for the induction of immune tolerance by taking advantage of the liver’s unique tolerogenic properties and nanoparticles’ physicochemical flexibility. Such an approach provides a versatile solution to the treatment of a diversity of immunologic diseases. In this review, we begin by assessing the design parameters integral to cell-specific targeting and the tolerogenic induction of nanoplatforms engineered to target the four critical immunogenic hepatic cells, including liver sinusoidal epithelial cells (LSECs), Kupffer cells (KCs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and hepatocytes. We also include an overview of multiple therapeutic strategies in which nanoparticles are being studied to treat many allergies and autoimmune disorders. Finally, we explore the challenges of using nanoparticles in this field while highlighting future avenues to expand the therapeutic utility of liver-targeting nanoparticles in autoimmune processes.
From E-Waste to High-Value Materials: Sustainable Synthesis of Metal, Metal Oxide, and MOF Nanoparticles from Waste Printed Circuit Boards
Authors: Pineda-Vásquez Tatiana , Rendón-Castrillón Leidy , Ramírez-Carmona Margarita , Ocampo-López Carlos
Published: December 2023

The exponential growth of electronic waste (e-waste) has raised significant environmental concerns, with projections indicating a surge to 74.7 million metric tons of e-waste generated by 2030. Waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs), constituting approximately 10% of all e-waste, are particularly intriguing due to their high content of valuable metals and rare earth elements. However, the presence of hazardous elements necessitates sustainable recycling strategies. This review explores innovative approaches to sustainable metal nanoparticle synthesis from WPCBs. Efficient metal recovery from WPCBs begins with disassembly and the utilization of advanced equipment for optimal separation. Various pretreatment techniques, including selective leaching and magnetic separation, enhance metal recovery efficiency. Green recovery systems such as biohydrometallurgy offer eco-friendly alternatives, with high selectivity. Converting metal ions into nanoparticles involves concentration and transformation methods like chemical precipitation, electrowinning, and dialysis. These methods are vital for transforming recovered metal ions into valuable nanoparticles, promoting sustainable resource utilization and eco-friendly e-waste recycling. Sustainable green synthesis methods utilizing natural sources, including microorganisms and plants, are discussed, with a focus on their applications in producing well-defined nanoparticles. Nanoparticles derived from WPCBs find valuable applications in drug delivery, microelectronics, antimicrobial materials, environmental remediation, diagnostics, catalysis, agriculture, etc. They contribute to eco-friendly wastewater treatment, photocatalysis, protective coatings, and biomedicine. The important implications of this review lie in its identification of sustainable metal nanoparticle synthesis from WPCBs as a pivotal solution to e-waste environmental concerns, paving the way for eco-friendly recycling practices and the supply of valuable materials for diverse industrial applications.
Evaluation of the Effects of Instant Cascara Beverage on the Brain-Gut Axis of Healthy Male and Female Rats
Authors: Gallego-Barceló Paula , Bagues Ana , Benítez-Álvarez David , López-Tofiño Yolanda , Gálvez-Robleño Carlos , López-Gómez Laura , del Castillo María Dolores , Abalo Raquel
Published: December 2023

Instant cascara (IC) is a sustainable beverage obtained from dried coffee cherry pulp, rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds. The present research aimed to determine the effects of IC on general health and brain-gut axis parameters of healthy female and male rats. Wistar rats were exposed to IC (10 mg/mL) in their drinking water for 3 weeks. Body weight and solid and liquid intakes were monitored as indicators of food safety. Gastrointestinal transit was radiographically evaluated one day (acute) and 3 weeks (chronic) after the start of IC exposure. Locomotor activity, anxiety, and anhedonia of the animals after 3 weeks of treatment was also studied. Overall, compared to water-exposed animals, IC significantly increased food intake in males (p < 0.0001) and liquid intake in females (p < 0.05) without changes in body weight in either case. IC did not significantly modify gastrointestinal motility parameters after its acute or repeated intake and did not cause any significant behavioral alterations in males or females (p > 0.05). In conclusion, repeated intake of IC at the studied concentration did not negatively affect brain-gut axis functions of healthy male and female rats. Anxiety behavior, diarrhea, constipation, abnormal weight modifications, or other typical effects of toxicity were not observed in animals treated with the new powdered beverage, suggesting its food safety under the studied conditions.
Vegetarian Nutrition in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Narasaki Yoko , Kalantar-Zadeh Kamyar , Rhee Connie M. , Brunori Giuliano , Zarantonello Diana
Published: December 2023

There is rising interest globally with respect to the health implications of vegetarian or plant-based diets. A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that higher consumption of plant-based foods and the nutrients found in vegetarian and plant-based diets are associated with numerous health benefits, including improved blood pressure, glycemic control, lipid levels, body mass index, and acid–base parameters. Furthermore, there has been increasing recognition that vegetarian and plant-based diets may have potential salutary benefits in preventing the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). While increasing evidence shows that vegetarian and plant-based diets have nephroprotective effects, there remains some degree of uncertainty about their nutritional adequacy and safety in CKD (with respect to protein-energy wasting, hyperkalemia, etc.). In this review, we focus on the potential roles of and existing data on the efficacy/effectiveness and safety of various vegetarian and plant-based diets in CKD, as well as their practical application in CKD management.
An Assessment of Women’s Knowledge of the Menstrual Cycle and the Influence of Diet and Adherence to Dietary Patterns on the Alleviation or Exacerbation of Menstrual Distress
Authors: Ciołek Anna , Kostecka Malgorzata , Kostecka Julianna , Kawecka Paulina , Popik-Samborska Monika
Published: December 2023

A growing number of women of reproductive age experience menstrual disorders. The menstrual cycle is considerably influenced by dietary habits, physical activity, and the use of stimulants. The main aim of this study was to assess women’s knowledge about the menstrual cycle and the influence of diet and lifestyle factors on menstrual symptoms, and to identify dietary models that may alleviate or exacerbate menstrual distress. A total of 505 young women participated in the study. Nearly 90% of the respondents reported at least one menstrual disorder, mostly dysmenorrhea (70.7%), whereas secondary amenorrhea was least frequently reported (13.8%) (p = 0.002). In the study population, dysmenorrhea/menstrual distress was linked with higher consumption frequency of certain food groups. Women with severe dysmenorrhea consumed refined cereal products, processed meat, sugar, and water significantly more frequently than women with moderate menstrual pain. In turn, sweetened dairy products, animal fats, and fruit were consumed more frequently by women with low intensity of menstrual pain (mild pain). Significant differences in knowledge about the menstrual cycle and physiological changes in the body were observed between the compared dietary models.
Micronutrient Status in Pregnant Women after Metabolic Bariatric Surgery in the United Arab Emirates: A Prospective Study
Authors: Al Mansoori Amna , Bataineh Mo’ath F. , Al Momani Hazem , Ali Habiba I.
Published: December 2023

Metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) helps reduce comorbidities, such as hypertension and gestational diabetes, and is more effective than diet management for women with obesity-related health issues. Vitamin B12, vitamin D, and iron play important roles in ensuring the health of a neonate. However, pregnancies occurring after MBS may face complications related to micronutrient deficiencies, particularly of vitamins B12 and D and iron. This study aimed to investigate the vitamin B12, vitamin D, ferritin, and iron status of pregnant women who underwent MBS compared with women without MBS history. The study included 217 pregnant women (105 with a history of MBS and 112 without a history of MBS) who visited a major maternity hospital in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) between July 2021 and November 2022. The maternal vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, and ferritin levels were measured twice, initially during the first or second trimester and subsequently during the third trimester. The iron was measured once during the pregnancy. Vitamin B12 deficiency was higher among pregnant women with MBS history compared to non-bariatric pregnant women (24.4% vs. 3.9%, p < 0.001). Women with a history of MBS had a higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (62.3% vs. 37.7%, p < 0.002). Linear regression analysis indicated that vitamin B12 levels decreased by 55 pg/mL in women with a history of MBS and by 4.6 pg/mL with a unit increase in body mass index (kg/m2). Furthermore, vitamin D levels in women with a history of MBS decreased by 4.9 ng/mL during pregnancy. Metabolic bariatric surgery is associated with vitamin B12, vitamin D, and iron deficiencies during pregnancy.
Application and Diagnostic Performance of Two-Dimensional Shear Wave Elastography and Liver Fibrosis Scores in Adults with Class 3 Obesity
Authors: Chimoriya Ritesh , Ho Vincent , Wang Ziqi Vincent , Chang Ruby , Boumelhem Badwi B. , Simmons David , Kormas Nic , Gorrell Mark D. , Piya Milan K.
Published: December 2023

There are no ideal non-invasive tests for assessing the severity of liver fibrosis in people with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and class 3 obesity, where body habitus often makes imaging technically challenging. This study aimed to assess the applicability and diagnostic performance of two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE), alongside several serum-based liver fibrosis scoring methods, in individuals with class 3 obesity. A cross-sectional study was conducted in patients aged ≥18 years and with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m2 who were participants in a publicly funded multidisciplinary weight management program in South Western Sydney. The 2D-SWE was performed using the ElastQ Imaging (EQI) procedure with the Phillips EPIQ Elite series ultrasound. An EQI Median value of ≥6.43 kPa was taken as a cutoff score for significant fibrosis, and the scan was considered valid when the liver EQI IQR/Med value was <30%. The Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index, AST-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS), and circulating fibroblast activation protein index (FAP index) were calculated from fasting blood samples. The participants (n = 116; 67.2% female) were aged 47.2 ± 12.9 years, with BMI 54.5 ± 11.0 kg/m2. EQI Median values were obtained for 97.4% (113/116) of the 2D-SWE scans, and 91.4% (106/116) of the scans were considered valid. The EQI Median values exhibited a moderately positive correlation with the FIB-4 index (r = 0.438; p < 0.001) and a weakly positive correlation with the APRI (r = 0.388; p < 0.001), NFS (r = 0.210; p = 0.036) and FAP index (r = 0.226; p = 0.020). All liver fibrosis scores were positively correlated with one another. Among those referred for a liver biopsy based on the 2D-SWE and serum scores, half (11/22) underwent liver biopsy, and their 2D-SWE scores exhibited 72.7% accuracy (sensitivity: 71.4%; specificity: 75%) in detecting significant fibrosis. Our results show that 2D-SWE is a feasible, non-invasive test to assess liver fibrosis among people with class 3 obesity. Further research is needed to assess how 2D-SWE can be used alongside existing serum-based risk scores to reliably detect significant fibrosis, which would potentially reduce the need for invasive liver biopsy.
Photodynamic Action of Curcumin and Methylene Blue against Bacteria and SARS-CoV-2—A Review
Authors: Law Siu Kan , Leung Albert Wing Nang , Xu Chuanshan
Published: December 2023

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has occurred for more than four years, and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causing COVID-19 is a strain of coronavirus, which presents high rates of morbidity around the world. Up to the present date, there are no therapeutics that can avert this form of illness, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) may be an alternative approach against SARS-CoV-2. Curcumin and methylene blue have been approved and used in clinical practices as a photosensitizer in PDT for a long time with their anti-viral properties and for disinfection through photo-inactivated SARS-CoV-2. Previously, curcumin and methylene blue with antibacterial properties have been used against Gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). Methods: To conduct a literature review, nine electronic databases were researched, such as WanFang Data, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Springer Link, SciFinder, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), without any regard to language constraints. In vitro and in vivo studies were included that evaluated the effect of PDT mediated via curcumin or methylene blue to combat bacteria and SARS-CoV-2. All eligible studies were analyzed and summarized in this review. Results: Curcumin and methylene blue inhibited the replication of SARS-CoV-2. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated during the treatment of PDT with curcumin and methylene blue to prevent the attachment of SARS-CoV-2 on the ACE2 receptor and damage to the nucleic acids either DNA or RNA. It also modulates pro-inflammatory cytokines and attenuates the clotting effects of the host response. Conclusion: The photodynamic action of curcumin and methylene blue provides a possible approach against bacteria and SARS-CoV-2 infection because they act as non-toxic photosensitizers in PDT with an antibacterial effect, anti-viral properties, and disinfection functions.
Palatability and Stability Studies to Optimize a Carvedilol Oral Liquid Formulation for Pediatric Use
Authors: Chiclana-Rodríguez Blanca , Garcia-Montoya Encarnacion , Romero-Obon Miquel , Rouaz-El-Hajoui Khadija , Nardi-Ricart Anna , Suñé-Pou Marc , Suñé-Negre Josep M. , Pérez-Lozano Pilar
Published: December 2023

Carvedilol (CARV) is a blocker of α- and β- adrenergic receptors, used as an “off-label” treatment for cardiovascular diseases in pediatrics. Currently, there is no marketed pediatric-appropriate CARV liquid formulation, so its development is necessary. Palatability (appreciation of smell, taste, and aftertaste) is a key aspect to be considered during the development of pediatric formulations since only formulations with good palatability also have adequate acceptability in this population. Consequently, the aim of this research was to assess the palatability and acceptability of different CARV formulations using an in vivo taste assessment (ID Number PR103/22) in order to select the highest palatability-rated CARV formulation. The preparation of CARV formulations was based on a reference 1 mg/mL CARV solution, which contains malic acid as a solubilizing agent. Subsequently, sucralose and flavoring agents were added and mixed until complete dissolution to the corresponding formulations. Adult volunteers participated in this study and evaluated the taste and odor of various CARV formulations through a questionnaire and a sensory test. The mean palatability score, measured on a 10-point scale, increased from 1.60 for the unflavored control to 7.65 for the highest-rated flavored formulation. Moreover, the bitterness of the optimized CARV formulation was reduced from 66.67% to 17.86%, and the taste pleasantness was increased from 25/100 to 73/100. This optimized CARV formulation contains a sweetening agent, sucralose, in addition to two flavoring agents at appropriate concentrations for pediatrics. Furthermore, the physicochemical and microbiological stability of the optimized CARV formulation were evaluated for 6 months at 25, 30, and 40 °C, in addition to in-use stability for 15 days at 25 °C, whose results were confirmed. Thus, we successfully developed a palatable CARV liquid solution that contains excipients appropriate for pediatrics and is stable under the studied conditions.
Investigation of an Improved Angular Spectrum Method Based on Holography
Authors: Wu Ting , Yang Yuling , Wang Hao , Chen Hao , Zhu Hao , Yu Jisheng , Wang Xiuxin
Published: December 2023

Digital holography (DH) is a novel, real-time, non-destructive, and quantitative phase-contrast imaging method that is particularly suitable for label-free live biological cell imaging and real-time dynamic monitoring. It is currently a research hotspot in the interdisciplinary field of optics and biomedical sciences, both domestically and internationally. This article proposes an improved angle spectrum algorithm based on holographic technology, which reconstructs a cellular hologram based on phase information. Optical images and chromosome cell images, reconstructed using holographic technology at different diffraction distances under the improved angle spectrum algorithm, were analyzed and compared. The optimal diffraction distance for reconstructing chromosome cell images was selected, and chromosome cell images reproduced using traditional angle spectrum algorithms, angle spectrum algorithms combined with GS, and improved angle spectrum algorithms were compared. Comparative experiments with the different models show that the proposed algorithm is superior to traditional angle spectrum algorithms in reconstructing cell images based on phase information. Furthermore, experiments have shown that images reconstructed using the improved algorithm can resolve high signal-to-noise ratio information. This algorithmic improvement provides new applications for cellular detection in clinical diagnostics and is more suitable for cell phase reconstruction in practical applications.
Dielectrophoretically Assembled SWCNTs Networks on SU-8 Substrate for PEG/SWCNTs Composite Gas Sensor
Authors: Chiou Jin-Chern , Wu Chin-Cheng , Lin Tse-Mei , Huang Yu-Chieh
Published: December 2023

This study proposed a SU-8 based gas sensor, integrated with heater and sensing electrodes, to develop a multi-channel gas sensor with PEG/SWCNTs composite films. The impedance of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) on each sensing electrode was well controlled via dielectrophoresis technology. To investigate dielectrophoretic mobility characteristics, the concentric circular sensing electrode has three different spacing between the inner and outer electrodes, including 10 μm, 15 μm, and 20 μm. The electrodes were applied with a 5 MHz AC source with a voltage ranging from 1 Vpp to 5 Vpp. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was deposited on the gas sensor via drop casting. The fabricated gas sensor was operated at different working temperatures, including 25 °C, 40 °C, 50 °C and 60 °C, to examine the sensing response. The response results revealed that the PEG/SWCNTs composites gas sensor with 60 °C working temperature exhibited the ability to detect 80 ppm ethanol vapor.
Recovery of Ionic Liquid from the Model Solution Mixture Mimicking the Catalytically Hydrolyzed Cellulose Product Utilizing Amberlyst Ion-Exchange Resin
Authors: Regmi Chhabilal , Thamaraiselvan Chidambaram , Zhu Zhexi , Qian Xianghong , Wickramasinghe S. Ranil
Published: December 2023

The hydrolysis of cellulose using ionic liquid (IL) has been extensively studied but there is limited understanding of the removal of IL from the biomass hydrolysate. Finding a suitable method for the recovery and reuse of IL is one of the biggest challenges before its large-scale application. Selecting an appropriate combined recovery process is very important. This study proposed a facile ion-exchange combined method for the recovery of IL from the modeled cellulose hydrolysate mixture containing sugars as well as γ-valerolactone (GVL) via an adsorption–desorption mechanism using sulfonic acid cation-exchange (Amberlyst 15 (H)) resin. The results showed that the resin could adsorb more than 94% of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride [Emim]Cl IL at ambient conditions within a contact time of 20 min. The other coexisting constituents like glucose and GVL have no significant effect on the adsorption efficiency of IL. The adsorption of IL on Amberlyst 15 (H) resin was observed to be pseudo-second-order adsorption. The regeneration of the adsorbed IL was possible up to 70% using low-cost, easily available sodium chloride (NaCl) solution. Similarly, despite the interference of other unwanted byproducts in the real biomass hydrolysate sample, an IL adsorption efficiency up to 51% was reached under similar operating conditions. This study thus opens the facile possibility of extracting and recycling IL used in the biomass hydrolysis process.
Research on a Pressure Control Method for a Liquid Supply System Based on Online Updating of a Radial Basis Function Neural Network
Authors: Peng Yanwei , Kou Ziming , Wu Juan , Luo Jianguo , Liu Hang , Zhang Buwen
Published: December 2023

In order to solve the problem of frequent pressure fluctuations caused by fluid quantity variation in hydraulic support liquid supply systems and the pressure response lag caused by long-distance pipelines, an online updated radial basis function neural network (RBF neural network) control method was proposed for the long-distance liquid supply system. Based on the analysis of the measured pressure fluctuations of the mining face and the process of the stable pressure liquid supply system, the influencing factors of the stable pressure liquid supply flow demand were obtained. The flow set of the stable pressure liquid supply system was established and fitted in the SimulationX–Simulink co-simulation model and the online correction was carried out by using the characteristics of the repeated action of the hydraulic support. Finally, the online updating RBF neural network regulator was established to realize the pressure regulator control of the pumping station, and the experimental platform was set up for verification. The results show that this method can effectively reduce the pressure fluctuations caused by the change in the flow demand of the mining face, and can adjust the flow rate of the mining face, reduce the pressure impact, and improve the efficiency of the machine.
The Mahimā of Ājali Āi and the Persecuted Māyāmārā Śatra: Guru-Mā as Holy Patroness and Divine Mother
Authors: Das Arunjana
Published: December 2023

Every year around 200,000 Māyāmārā Vaiṣṇavas congregate in a small village in Mājulī, Assam, India, for the annual śevā, or worship service, to Ājali Āi, a 16th-century female figure. She was the mother of Sri Sri Aniruddhadeva, the founder of Māyāmārā Vaiṣṇavism, a religious sect originating in medieval Assam that experienced royal persecution and ethnic cleansing. Among contemporary Māyāmārā Vaiṣṇavas, veneration of Ājali Āi as the mother of the founding Guru has become popular, which is somewhat puzzling since historical information about her life is scarce. Nevertheless, as Guru-Mā, Ājali Āi today has become a symbol of holiness in Māyāmārā society with community members attributing to her mahimā, translated as a divine agency, mysterious glory, or supremacy. Guru-riṇ and Mātri-ṛin, categories that are a part of the Vaiṣṇava and the larger Hindu canon, can generally explain the holiness accorded to the mother of the Guru. In the case of the Māyāmārā Vaiṣṇavas, however, they are not sufficient to explain the power in the form of mahimā that the community ascribes to her in the present day to the degree of attributing to her the power to grant wishes. This exploratory chapter argues for a systems approach to understand the phenomenon of the mahimā of Ājali Āi in contemporary Māyāmārā society. The chapter finds that socio-economic and political forces interacted with extant legends around Ājali Āi and ideas around Āi as Devi and mother in complex ways to create the community’s contemporary understanding of Ājali Āi as a holy and loving maternal figure with mahimā—one who keeps a watchful and nurturing eye over the community and grants the wishes of ardent devotees.