bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation Coatings of a 6061 Al Alloy in an Electrolyte with the Addition of K2ZrF6
Authors: Tu Chaohui , Chen Xuanyu , Liu Cancan , Li Deye
Published: June 2023

In this study, white thermal control coatings were produced on a 6061 Al alloy using plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). The coatings were mainly formed by incorporating K2ZrF6. The phase composition, microstructure, thickness, and roughness of the coatings were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), a surface roughness tester, and an eddy current thickness meter, respectively. The solar absorbance and infrared emissivity of the PEO coatings were measured using a UV–Vis–NIR spectrophotometer and FTIR spectrometer, respectively. The addition of K2ZrF6 to the trisodium phosphate electrolyte was found to significantly enhance the thickness of the white PEO coating on the Al alloy, with the coating thickness increasing in proportion to the concentration of K2ZrF6. Meanwhile, the surface roughness was observed to stabilize at a certain level as the K2ZrF6 concentration increased. At the same time, the addition of K2ZrF6 altered the growth mechanism of the coating. In the absence of K2ZrF6 in the electrolyte, the PEO coating on the Al alloy surface predominantly developed outwards. However, with the introduction of K2ZrF6, the coating’s growth mode transitioned to a combination of outward and inward growth, with the proportion of inward growth progressively increasing in proportion to the concentration of K2ZrF6. The addition of K2ZrF6 substantially enhanced the adhesion of the coating to the substrate and endowed it with exceptional thermal shock resistance, as the inward growth of the coating was facilitated by the presence of K2ZrF6. In addition, the phase composition of the aluminum alloy PEO coating in the electrolyte containing K2ZrF6 was dominated by tetragonal zirconia (t-ZrO2) and monoclinic zirconia (m-ZrO2). With the increase in K2ZrF6 concentration, the L* value of the coating increased from 71.69 to 90.53. Moreover, the coating absorbance α decreased, while the emissivity ε increased. Notably, at a K2ZrF6 concentration of 15 g/L, the coating exhibited the lowest absorbance (0.16) and the highest emissivity (0.72), which are attributed to the enhanced roughness resulting from the substantial increase in coating thickness caused by the addition of K2ZrF6, as well as the presence of ZrO2 with higher emissivity within the coating.
The Effect of Preconditioning Temperature on Gas Permeability of Alkali-Activated Concretes
Authors: Duży Patrycja , Colombel Marta Choinska , Hager Izabela , Amiri Ouali
Published: June 2023

Alkali-activated materials (AAM) are binders that are considered an eco-friendly alternative to conventional binders based on Portland cement. The utilization of industrial wastes such as fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) instead of cement enables a reduction of the CO2 emissions caused by clinker production. Although researchers are highly interested in the use of alkali-activated concrete (AAC) in construction, its application remains very restricted. As many standards for hydraulic concrete’s gas permeability evaluation require a specific drying temperature, we would like to emphasize the sensitivity of AAM to such preconditioning. Therefore, this paper presents the impact of different drying temperatures on gas permeability and pore structure for AAC5, AAC20, and AAC35, which contain alkali-activated (AA) binders made from blends of FA and GGBFS in slag proportions of 5%, 20%, and 35% by the mass of FA, respectively. The preconditioning of samples was performed at 20, 40, 80, and 105 °C, up to the obtainment of constant mass, and then gas permeability was evaluated, as well as porosity and pore size distribution (mercury intrusion porosity (MIP) for 20 and 105 °C). The experimental results demonstrate up to a three-percentage-point rise in the total porosity of low-slag concrete after 105 °C in comparison to 20 °C, as well as a significant increase in gas permeability, reaching up to 30-fold amplification, contingent upon the matrix composition. Notably, the alteration in pore size distribution, influenced by the preconditioning temperature, exhibits a substantial impact. The results highlight an important sensitivity of permeability to thermal preconditioning.
Biological Response of Human Gingival Fibroblasts to Zinc-Doped Hydroxyapatite Designed for Dental Applications—An In Vitro Study
Authors: Badea Madalina Andreea , Balas Mihaela , Popa Marcela , Borcan Teodora , Bunea Anamaria-Cristina , Predoi Daniela , Dinischiotu Anca
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to investigate the biological response induced by hydroxyapatite (HAp) and zinc-doped HAp (ZnHAp) in human gingival fibroblasts and to explore their antimicrobial activity. The ZnHAp (with xZn = 0.00 and 0.07) powders, synthesized by the sol-gel method, retained the crystallographic structure of pure HA without any modification. Elemental mapping confirmed the uniform dispersion of zinc ions in the HAp lattice. The size of crystallites was 18.67 ± 2 nm for ZnHAp and 21.54 ± 1 nm for HAp. The average particle size was 19.38 ± 1 nm for ZnHAp and 22.47 ± 1 nm for HAp. Antimicrobial studies indicated an inhibition of bacterial adherence to the inert substrate. In vitro biocompatibility was tested on various doses of HAp and ZnHAp after 24 and 72 h of exposure and revealed that cell viability decreased after 72 h starting with a dose of 31.25 µg/mL. However, cells retained membrane integrity and no inflammatory response was induced. High doses (such as 125 µg/mL) affected cell adhesion and the architecture of F-actin filaments, while in the presence of lower doses (such as 15.625 µg/mL), no modifications were observed. Cell proliferation was inhibited after treatment with HAp and ZnHAp, except the dose of 15.625 µg/mL ZnHAp at 72 h of exposure, when a slight increase was observed, proving an improvement in ZnHAp activity due to Zn doping.
Reliable Methods for Classification, Characterization, and Design of Cellular Structures for Patient-Specific Implants
Authors: Nemes-Károly István , Szebényi Gábor
Published: June 2023

In our research, our goal was to develop a characterization method that can be universally applied to periodic cell structures. Our work involved the accurate tuning of the stiffness properties of cellular structure components that can significantly reduce the number of revision surgeries. Up to date porous, cellular structures provide the best possible osseointegration, while stress shielding and micromovements at the bone-implant interface can be reduced by implants with elastic properties equivalent to bone tissue. Furthermore, it is possible to store a drug inside implants with a cellular structure, for which we have also prepared a viable model. In the literature, there is currently no established uniform stiffness sizing procedure for periodic cellular structures but also no uniform designation to identify the structures. A uniform marking system for cellular structures was proposed. We developed a multi-step exact stiffness design and validation methodology. The method consists of a combination of FE (Finite Element) simulations and mechanical compression tests with fine strain measurement, which are finally used to accurately set the stiffness of components. We succeeded in reducing the stiffness of test specimens designed by us to a level equivalent to that of bone (7–30 GPa), and all of this was also validated with FE simulation.
Axial Compressive Behavior of Cross-Shaped CFST Stub Columns with Steel Bar Truss Stiffening
Authors: Tao Yu , Gong Chao , Zhang Sumei , Li Xiaozhong , Tan Xiao , Hu Junjie
Published: June 2023

Concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) columns have been widely used in residential buildings due to their high bearing capacity, good ductility, and reliable seismic performance. However, conventional circular, square, or rectangular CFST columns may protrude from the adjacent walls, resulting in inconvenience in terms of the arrangement of furniture in a room. In order to solve the problem, special-shaped CFST columns, such as cross-shaped, L-shaped, and T-shaped columns, have been suggested and adopted in engineering practice. These special-shaped CFST columns have limbs with the same width as the adjacent walls. However, compared with conventional CFST columns, the special-shaped steel tube provides weaker confinement to the infilled concrete under axial compressive load, especially at concave corners. The parting at concave corners is the key factor affecting the bearing capacity and ductility of the members. Therefore, a cross-shaped CFST column with steel bar truss stiffening is suggested. In this paper, 12 cross-shaped CFST stub columns were designed and tested under axial compression loading. The effects of steel bar truss node spacing and column–steel ratio on the failure mode, bearing capacity, and ductility were discussed in detail. The results indicate that the columns with steel bar truss stiffening can change the final deformation mode of the steel plate from single-wave buckling to multiple-wave buckling, and the failure modes of columns also subsequently change from single-section concrete crushing failure to multiple-section concrete crushing failure. The steel bar truss stiffening shows no obvious effect on the axial bearing capacity of the member but significantly improves the ductility. The columns with a steel bar truss node spacing of 140 mm can only increase the bearing capacity by 6.8% while nearly doubling the ductility coefficient from 2.31 to 4.40. The experimental results are compared with those of six design codes worldwide. The results show that the Eurocode 4 (2004) and the Chinese code CECS159-2018 can be safely used to predict the axial bearing capacity of cross-shaped CFST stub columns with steel bar truss stiffening.
Empirical Study of Surface Deterioration Analysis Based on Random Fields for Reinforced Concrete Structures in Marine Environment
Authors: Yi Guixiang , Ye Xinyi , Li Quanwang
Published: June 2023

Corrosion-induced deterioration of the in-service marine reinforced concrete (RC) structures may result in unsatisfactory serviceability or insufficient safety. Surface deterioration analysis based on random fields can provide information regarding the future development of the surface damage of the in-service RC members, but its accuracy needs to be verified in order to broaden its applications in durability assessment. This paper performs an empirical study to verify the accuracy of the surface deterioration analysis based on random fields. The batch-casting effect is considered to establish the “step-shaped” random fields for stochastic parameters in order to better coordinate their actual spatial distributions. Inspection data from a 23-year-old high-pile wharf is obtained and analyzed in this study. The simulation results of the RC panel members’ surface deterioration are compared with the in-situ inspection results with respect to the steel cross-section loss, cracking proportion, maximum crack width, and surface damage grades. It shows that the simulation results coordinate well with the inspection results. On this basis, four maintenance options are established and compared in terms of the total amounts of RC panel members needing restoration and the total economic costs. It provides a comparative tool to aid the owners in selecting the optimal maintenance action given the inspection results, to minimize the lifecycle cost and guarantee the sufficient serviceability and safety of the structures.
Study on the Gas Release of 3D-Printed Furan Resin Sand Core during the Casting Process
Authors: Wang Xiaolong , Wu Qihua , Huang Yuhang , Li Na , Wu Xiongzhi , Chen Xiuming , Wang Jiwu , Jing Tao , Huang Tianyou , Kang Jinwu
Published: June 2023

In sand casting, gas porosity is a common defect that can result in decreased strength, leakage, rough surfaces, or other problems. Although the forming mechanism is very complicated, gas release from sand cores is often a significant contributor to the formation of gas porosity defects. Therefore, studying the gas release behavior of sand cores is crucial to solving this problem. Current research on the gas release behavior of sand cores mainly focuses on parameters such as gas permeability and gas generation properties, through experimental measurement and numerical simulation methods. However, accurately reflecting the gas generation situation in the actual casting process is difficult, and there are certain limitations. To achieve the actual casting condition, a sand core was designed and enclosed inside a casting. The core print was extended to the sand mold surface, with two types of core prints: hollow and dense. Pressure and airflow speed sensors were installed on the exposed surface of the core print to investigate the burn-off of the binder of the 3D-printed furan resin quartz sand cores. The experimental results showed that the gas generation rate was high in the initial stage of the burn-off process. The gas pressure quickly reached its peak in the initial stage and then decreased rapidly. The exhaust speed of the dense type of core print was 1 m/s, lasting for 500 s. The pressure peak of the hollow-type sand core was 1.09 kPa, and the exhaust speed peak was 1.89 m/s. The binder can be sufficiently burned off for the location surrounding the casting and the crack-affected area, so the burnt sand appears white, while the burnt core appears black due to insufficient burning of the binder because of isolation from the air. The gas generated by the burnt resin sand in contact with air was 30.7% less than that generated by the burnt resin sand insulated from the air.
Investigation of Pre-Aged Hardening Single-Point Incremental Forming Process and Mechanical Properties of AA6061 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Zhang Yao , Zhang Zhichao , Li Yan , Hu Lan , Pang Qiu , Hu Zhili
Published: June 2023

Currently, the single-point incremental forming process often faces issues such as insufficient formability of the sheet metal and low strength of the formed parts. To address this problem, this study proposes a pre-aged hardening single-point incremental forming (PH-SPIF) process that offers several notable benefits, including shortened procedures, reduced energy consumption, and increased sheet forming limits while maintaining high mechanical properties and geometric accuracy in formed components. To investigate forming limits, an Al-Mg-Si alloy was used to form different wall angles during the PH-SPIF process. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses were conducted to characterize microstructure evolution during the PH-SPIF process. The results demonstrate that the PH-SPIF process can achieve a forming limit angle of up to 62°, with excellent geometric accuracy, and hardened component hardness reaching up to 128.5 HV, surpassing the strength of the AA6061-T6 alloy. The DSC and TEM analyses reveal numerous pre-existing thermostable GP zones in the pre-aged hardening alloys, which undergo transformation into dispersed β” phases during the forming procedure, leading to the entanglement of numerous dislocations. The dual effects of phase transformation and plastic deformation during the PH-SPIF process significantly contribute to the desirable mechanical properties of the formed components.
Development of Blue Phosphorescent Pt(II) Materials Using Dibenzofuranyl Imidazole Ligands and Their Application in Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Kim Hakjo , Cho Dain , Kim Haein , Kim Seung Chan , Lee Jun Yeob , Kang Youngjin
Published: June 2023

Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are energy-efficient; however, the coordinating ligand can affect their stability. Sky-blue phosphorescent Pt(II) compounds with a C^N chelate, fluorinated-dbi (dbi = [1-(2,4-diisopropyldibenzo [b,d]furan-3-yl)-2-phenyl-1H-imidazole]), and acetylactonate (acac) (1)/picolinate (pic) (2) ancillary ligands were synthesized. The molecular structures were characterized using various spectroscopic methods. The Pt(II) Compound Two exhibited a distorted square planar geometry, with several intra- and inter-molecular interactions involving Cπ⋯H/Cπ⋯Cπ stacking. Complex One emitted bright sky-blue light (λmax = 485 nm) with a moderate photoluminescent quantum efficiency (PLQY) of 0.37 and short decay time (6.1 µs) compared to those of 2. Theoretical calculations suggested that the electronic transition of 1 arose from ligand(C^N)-centered π–π* transitions combined with metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT), whereas that of 2 arose from MLCT and ligand(C^N)-to-ligand(pic) charge-transfer (LLCT), with minimal contribution from C^N chelate to the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO). Multi-layered phosphorescent OLEDs using One as a dopant and a mixed host, mCBP/CNmCBPCN, were successfully fabricated. At a 10% doping concentration of 1, a current efficiency of 13.6 cdA−1 and external quantum efficiency of 8.4% at 100 cdm−2 were achieved. These results show that the ancillary ligand in phosphorescent Pt(II) complexes must be considered.
Out-of-Plane Flexural Behavior of Insulated Wall Panels Constructed with Large Insulation Thicknesses
Authors: Luebke Jacob , Pozo-Lora Fray F. , Al-Rubaye Salam , Maguire Marc
Published: June 2023

Insulated concrete sandwich wall panels (ICSWPs) are gaining popularity as energy regulations become stricter worldwide. ICSWPs are now being constructed with thinner wythes and thicker insulation to keep up with the changing market, which is reducing material costs and increasing thermal and structural efficiency. However, there is a need for adequate experimental testing to validate the current design methods for these new panels. This research aims to provide that validation by comparing the predictions of four different methods with experimental data obtained from six large-scale panels. The study found that while current design methods adequately predict the behavior of thin wythe and thick insulation ICSWPs within the elastic region, they do not accurately predict their ultimate capacity.
Failure Mechanism Research on Bending Fretting Fatigue of 6061-T6 Aluminum Alloy by Experiment and Finite Element Method
Authors: Ding Jun , Yang Long , Liu Wei
Published: June 2023

The fatigue failure mechanism of bending fretting for cyclic softening material 6061-T6 aluminum alloy was researched by experiment and finite element method. The influence of cyclic load on bending fretting fatigue was researched and the damage characteristics under different cycles was discussed experimentally though SEM images. In the simulation, a normal load transformation method was employed to obtain a simplified two-dimensional model used for simulating the bending fretting fatigue from a three-dimensional model. An advanced constitutive equation with the Abdel–Ohno rule and isotropic hardening evolution was transplanted into ABAQUS by UMAT subroutine to consider the ratchetting behavior and cyclic softening characteristics. The peak stain distributions under various cyclic loads were discussed. Additionally, the bending fretting fatigue lives and crack initiation locations referring to a critical volume method were estimated using the Smith–Watson–Topper critical plane approach and reasonable results were obtained.
New Advances in Cement and Concrete Research
Authors: Kim Gun
Published: June 2023

The Special Issue (SI), “New Advances in Cement and Concrete Research”, highlights the latest breakthroughs in cement and concrete research [...]
Study on Alkali-Activated Prefabricated Building Recycled Concrete Powder for Foamed Lightweight Soils
Authors: Xiao Yao , Wu Zhengguang , Gong Yongfan
Published: June 2023

The advantage of a prefabricated building is its ease of construction. Concrete is one of the essential components of prefabricated buildings. A large amount of waste concrete from prefabricated buildings will be produced during the demolition of construction waste. In this paper, foamed lightweight soil is primarily made of concrete waste, a chemical activator, a foaming agent, and a foam stabilizer. The effect of the foam admixture on the wet bulk density, fluidity, dry density, water absorption, and unconfined compressive strength of the material was investigated. Microstructure and composition were measured by SEM and FTIR. The results demonstrated that the wet bulk density is 912.87 kg/m3, the fluidity is 174 mm, the water absorption is 23.16%, and the strength is 1.53 MPa, which can meet the requirements of light soil for highway embankment. When the foam content ranges from 55% to 70%, the foam proportion is increased and the material’s wet bulk density is decreased. Excessive foaming also increases the number of open pores, which reduces water absorption. At a higher foam content, there are fewer slurry components and lower strength. This demonstrates that recycled concrete powder did not participate in the reaction while acting as a skeleton in the cementitious material with a micro-aggregate effect. Slag and fly ash reacted with alkali activators and formed C-N-S(A)-H gels to provide strength. The obtained material is a construction material that can be constructed quickly and reduce post-construction settlement.
Postoperative Outcomes of Endoscopic versus Microscopic Myringoplasty in Patients with Chronic Otitis Media—A Systematic Review
Authors: Stefan Iemima , Stefanescu Cristian Dragos , Vlad Ana Maria , Zainea Viorel , Hainarosie Răzvan
Published: June 2023

Endoscopes are increasingly being used in middle ear surgery as an adjunct to or replacement for the operative microscope. The superior visualization of hidden areas and a minimally invasive transcanal approach to the pathology are some of the endoscope’s advantages. The aim of this review is to compare the surgical outcomes of a totally endoscopic transcanal approach with a conventional microscopic approach for type 1 tympanoplasty in patients with chronic otitis media (COM) in order to establish if endoscopic myringoplasty (EM) could be a better alternative to microscopic myringoplasty (MM). A literature review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis recommendations. The selected articles were identified by searching PubMed Central, PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase databases for the relevant publications. Only studies where the same surgeon in the department performed both endoscopic and microscopic myringoplasty have been included in the review. The results suggest that with an endoscopic approach, minimally invasive myringoplasty can be achieved with a similar graft success rate and postoperative air–bone gap (ABG) improvement, a shorter operative time and less postoperative complications compared to a microscopic approach.
Antibodies against Phosphorylcholine—Implications for Chronic Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Frostegård Johan
Published: June 2023

Atherosclerosis and its main consequence, cardiovascular disease (CVD) are nowadays regarded as chronic inflammatory disease conditions, and CVD is the main cause of death in the world. Other examples of chronic inflammation are rheumatic and other autoimmune conditions, but also diabetes, obesity, and even osteoarthritis among others. In addition, infectious diseases can have traits in common with these conditions. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototypical autoimmune disease, where atherosclerosis is increased and the risk of CVD is very high. This is a clinical problem but could also shed light on the role of the immune system in atherosclerosis and CVD. Underlying mechanisms are of major interest and these are only partially known. Phosphorylcholine (PC) is a small lipid-related antigen, which is both a danger associated molecular pattern (DAMP), and a pathogen associated molecular pattern (PAMP). Antibodies against PC are ubiquitous and 5–10% of circulating IgM is IgM anti-PC. Anti-PC, especially IgM and IgG1 anti-PC, has been associated with protection in the chronic inflammatory conditions mentioned above, and develops during the first years of life, while being present at very low levels at birth. Animal experiments with immunization to raise anti-PC ameliorate atherosclerosis and other chronic inflammatory conditions. Potential mechanisms include anti-inflammatory, immune modulatory, clearance of dead cells and protection against infectious agents. An intriguing possibility is to raise anti-PC levels through immunization, to prevent and/or ameliorate chronic inflammation.
A Low-Noise Micromachined Accelerometer with Reconfigurable Electrodes for Resonance Suppression
Authors: Ahmed Zayed , Duruaku Charles , Edalatfar Fatemeh , Moallem Mehrdad , Bahreyni Behraad
Published: June 2023

We present a high-performance capacitive accelerometer with a sub-µg noise limit and 1.2 kHz bandwidth for particle acceleration detection applications. The low noise of the accelerometer is achieved through a combination of device design optimization and operation under vacuum to reduce the effects of air damping. Operation under vacuum, however, causes amplification of signals around the resonance region, potentially resulting in incapacitating it through saturation of interface electronics or nonlinearities and even damage. The device has thus been designed with two sets of electrodes for high and low electrostatic coupling efficiency. During normal operation, the open-loop device utilizes its high-sensitivity electrodes to provide the best resolution. When a strong signal near resonance is detected, the electrodes with low sensitivity are used for signal monitoring, while the high-sensitivity electrodes are used to apply feedback signals efficiently. A closed-loop electrostatic feedback control architecture is designed to counteract the large displacements of the proof mass near resonance frequency. Therefore, the ability to reconfigure electrodes lets the device be used in high-sensitivity or high-resiliency modes. Several experiments were conducted with DC and AC excitation at different frequencies to verify the effectiveness of the control strategy. The results showed a ten-fold reduction of displacement at resonance in the closed-loop arrangement compared to the open-loop system with a quality factor of 120.
Au-TiO2-Coated Spectroscopy-Based Human Teeth Disorder Detection Sensor: Design and Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Mitu Sumaiya Akhtar , Ahmed Kawsar , Bui Francis M. , Chen Li , Smirani Lassaad K. , Patel Shobhit K. , Sorathiya Vishal
Published: June 2023

Human tooth functionality is the most important for the human body to become fit and healthy. Due to the disease attacks in human teeth, parts may lead to different fatal diseases. A spectroscopy-based photonic crystal fiber (PCF) sensor was simulated and numerically analyzed for the detection of dental disorders in the human body. In this sensor structure, SF11 is used as the base material, gold (Au) is used as the plasmonic material, and TiO2 is used within the gold and sensing analyte layer, and the sensing medium for the analysis of the teeth parts is the aqueous solution. The maximum optical parameter values for the human tooth parts enamel, dentine, and cementum in terms of wavelength sensitivity and confinement loss were obtained as 28,948.69 nm/RIU and 0.00015 dB/m for enamel, 33,684.99 nm/RIU and 0.00028 dB/m, and 38,396.56 nm/RIU and 0.00087 dB/m, respectively. The sensor is more precisely defined by these high responses. The PCF-based sensor for tooth disorder detection is a relatively recent development. Due to its design flexibility, robustness, and wide bandwidth, its application area has been spreading out. The offered sensor can be used in the biological sensing area to identify problems with human teeth.
Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Seasonal Sonoran Propolis Extracts and Some of Their Main Constituents
Authors: Mendez-Encinas Mayra A. , Valencia Dora , Ortega-García Jesús , Carvajal-Millan Elizabeth , Díaz-Ríos José C. , Mendez-Pfeiffer Pablo , Soto-Bracamontes Cinthia M. , Garibay-Escobar Adriana , Alday Efrain , Velazquez Carlos
Published: June 2023

Biological properties of Sonoran propolis (SP) are influenced by harvest time. Caborca propolis showed cellular protective capacity against reactive oxygen species, which might be implicated in anti-inflammatory effects. However, the anti-inflammatory activity of SP has not been investigated so far. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of previously characterized seasonal SP extracts (SPE) and some of their main constituents (SPC). The anti-inflammatory activity of SPE and SPC was evaluated by measuring nitric oxide (NO) production, protein denaturation inhibition, heat-induced hemolysis inhibition, and hypotonicity-induced hemolysis inhibition. SPE from spring, autumn, and winter showed a higher cytotoxic effect on RAW 264.7 cells (IC50: 26.6 to 30.2 µg/mL) compared with summer extract (IC50: 49.4 µg/mL). SPE from spring reduced the NO secretion to basal levels at the lowest concentration tested (5 µg/mL). SPE inhibited the protein denaturation by 79% to 100%, and autumn showed the highest inhibitory activity. SPE stabilized erythrocyte membrane against heat-induced and hypotonicity-induced hemolysis in a concentration-dependent manner. Results indicate that the flavonoids chrysin, galangin, and pinocembrin could contribute to the anti-inflammatory activity of SPE and that the harvest time influences such a property. This study presents evidence of SPE pharmacological potential and some of their constituents.
Recent Progress in the Integration of CO2 Capture and Utilization
Authors: Ning Huanghao , Li Yongdan , Zhang Cuijuan
Published: June 2023

CO2 emission is deemed to be mainly responsible for global warming. To reduce CO2 emissions into the atmosphere and to use it as a carbon source, CO2 capture and its conversion into valuable chemicals is greatly desirable. To reduce the transportation cost, the integration of the capture and utilization processes is a feasible option. Here, the recent progress in the integration of CO2 capture and conversion is reviewed. The absorption, adsorption, and electrochemical separation capture processes integrated with several utilization processes, such as CO2 hydrogenation, reverse water–gas shift reaction, or dry methane reforming, is discussed in detail. The integration of capture and conversion over dual functional materials is also discussed. This review is aimed to encourage more efforts devoted to the integration of CO2 capture and utilization, and thus contribute to carbon neutrality around the world.
Mathematical Geometry and Groups for Low-Symmetry Metal Complex Systems
Authors: Akitsu Takashiro
Published: June 2023

Since chemistry, materials science, and crystallography deal with three-dimensional structures, they use mathematics such as geometry and symmetry. In recent years, the application of topology and mathematics to material design has yielded remarkable results. It can also be seen that differential geometry has been applied to various fields of chemistry for a relatively long time. There is also the possibility of using new mathematics, such as the crystal structure database, which represents big data, for computational chemistry (Hirshfeld surface analysis). On the other hand, group theory (space group and point group) is useful for crystal structures, including determining their electronic properties and the symmetries of molecules with relatively high symmetry. However, these strengths are not exhibited in the low-symmetry molecules that are actually handled. A new use of mathematics for chemical research is required that is suitable for the age when computational chemistry and artificial intelligence can be used.
Advances in Cytoprotective Drug Discovery
Authors: Yurchenko Ekaterina A. , Aminin Dmitry L.
Published: June 2023

This Special Issue was announced as a platform for authors studying the isolation and identification of various natural products with cytoprotective effects and those studying cytoprotective synthetic compounds [...]
Odor Perception and Descriptions of Rose-Scented Geranium Pelargonium graveolens ‘Dr. Westerlund’–Sensory and Chemical Analyses
Authors: Wendin Karin , Pálsdóttir Anna Maria , Spendrup Sara , Mårtensson Lennart
Published: June 2023

A recent study found that the natural scent from the rose-scented geranium Pelargonium graveolens ‘Dr. Westerlund’ had positive effects on stress reduction. Essential oils from many pelargonium species are known to have phytochemical properties and pharmacological activities. No study has, so far, explored and identified the chemical compounds and the sensory perception of these compounds in ‘Dr. Westerlund’ plants. Such knowledge would be an important contribution to an increased understanding of the effects of plants’ chemical odor properties on human well-being, and link this to the expressed perceived scents. This study aimed to identify the sensory profile and suggest responsible chemical compounds of Pelargonium graveolens ‘Dr. Westerlund’. The sensory and chemical analysis results revealed sensory profiles of Pelargonium graveolens ‘Dr. Westerlund’s and provided suggestions for the chemical compounds attributed to the sensory profiles. Further studies are recommended to investigate the correlation between volatile compounds and possible stress reduction in humans.
Consumer Attitudes toward Pulses: Measuring the Implicit
Authors: Melendrez-Ruiz Juliana , Arvisenet Gaëlle , Dubot Marie , Dujourdy Laurence , Chambaron Stéphanie
Published: June 2023

Research into consumer attitudes toward food products is important to help people adopt healthier, more sustainable diets. A positive attitude regarding an object is a prerequisite for its adoption. This study compares French consumers’ implicit attitudes toward pulses and cereals. Many studies have measured attitudes by explicit methodologies (e.g., questionnaires). Such methods are often biased by social desirability, and consumers may not be consciously aware of their attitudes toward food. A Sorting Paired Feature Task measures the strength of automatic associations, pairing images of pulses or cereals and adjectives with positive or negative valence. Participants sorted 120 paired stimuli as fast as possible. Pairs composed of pulses and negative adjectives were sorted faster than pairs composed of cereals and negative adjectives. Cereals with positive adjectives were sorted more rapidly than pulses with positive adjectives. Mistaken associations were more frequent for pairs composed of cereals and negative adjectives than for pairs composed of pulses and negative adjectives. These results highlight more negative implicit attitudes toward pulses than cereals. This study provides the first potential evidence of negative implicit attitudes toward pulses, which could explain the low consumption of these products.
Palm Fruit (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Pollen Extract Inhibits Cancer Cell and Enzyme Activities and DNA and Protein Damage
Authors: Habib Hosam M. , El-Fakharany Esmail M. , El-Gendi Hamada , El-Ziney Mohamed G. , El-Yazbi Ahmed F. , Ibrahim Wissam H.
Published: June 2023

Palm fruit pollen extract (PFPE) is a natural source of bioactive polyphenols. The primary aim of the study was to determine the antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, enzyme inhibition, bovine serum albumin (BSA), and DNA-protective properties of PFPE and identify and quantify the phenolic compounds present in PFPE. The results demonstrated that PFPE exhibited potent antioxidant activity in various radical-scavenging assays, including (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) (DPPH•), 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS•), nitric oxide (NO), ferric-reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). PFPE also displayed antimicrobial activity against several pathogenic bacteria. Similarly, PFPE reduced acetylcholinesterase, tyrosinase, and α-amylase activities. PFPE has been proven to have an anticancer effect against colon carcinoma (Caco-2), hepatoma (HepG-2), and breast carcinoma (MDA) cancer cells. Apoptosis occurred in PFPE-treated cells in a dose-dependent manner, and cell cycle arrest was observed. Furthermore, in breast cancer cells, PFPE down-regulated Bcl-2 and p21 and up-regulated p53 and Caspase-9. These results show that PFPE constitutes a potential source of polyphenols for pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and functional food applications.
Onco: A Promising Player Amidst Oncology Journals
Authors: Baxevanis Constantin N.
Published: June 2023

As the new Editor-in-Chief of the journal, I believe that I must continue the efforts of my predecessor even more actively and with greater enthusiasm and dedication so that the journal becomes a pole of attraction for the publication of excellent studies of basic, translational and clinical research for the treatment of cancer [...]
Bioguided Identification of Active Antimicrobial Compounds from Asphodelus bento-rainhae and Asphodelus macrocarpus Root Tubers
Authors: Malmir Maryam , Lima Katelene , Camões Sérgio Póvoas , Manageiro Vera , Duarte Maria Paula , Miranda Joana Paiva , Serrano Rita , da Silva Isabel Moreira , Lima Beatriz Silva , Caniça Manuela , Silva Olga
Published: June 2023

Root tubers of Asphodelus bento-rainhae subsp. bento-rainhae (AbR), a vulnerable endemic species, and Asphodelus macrocarpus subsp. macrocarpus (AmR) have traditionally been used in Portugal to treat inflammatory and infectious skin disorders. The present study aims to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of crude 70% and 96% hydroethanolic extracts of both medicinal plants, specifically against multidrug-resistant skin-related pathogens, to identify the involved marker secondary metabolites and also to assess the pre-clinical toxicity of these medicinal plant extracts. Bioguided fractionation of the 70% hydroethanolic extracts of both species using solvents of increasing polarity, namely diethyl ether (DEE: AbR-1, AmR-1), ethyl acetate (AbR-2, AmR-2) and aqueous (AbR-3, AmR-3) fractions, enabled the identification of the DEE fractions as the most active against all the tested Gram-positive microorganisms (MIC: 16 to 1000 µg/mL). Furthermore, phytochemical analyses using TLC and LC-UV/DAD-ESI/MS techniques revealed the presence of anthracene derivatives as the main constituents of DEE fractions, and five known compounds, namely 7′-(chrysophanol-4-yl)-chrysophanol-10’-C-beta-D-xylopyranosyl-anthrone (p), 10,7′-bichrysophanol (q), chrysophanol (r), 10-(chrysophanol-7′-yl)-10-hydroxychrysophanol-9-anthrone (s) and asphodelin (t), were identified as the main marker compounds. All these compounds showed high antimicrobial activity, particularly against Staphylococcus epidermidis (MIC: 3.2 to 100 µg/mL). Importantly, no cytotoxicity against HepG2 and HaCaT cells (up to 125 µg/mL) for crude extracts of both species and genotoxicity (up to 5000 µg/mL, with and without metabolic activation) for AbR 96% hydroethanolic extract was detected using the MTT and Ames tests, respectively. Overall, the obtained results contribute to the concrete validation of the use of these medicinal plants as potential sources of antimicrobial agents in the treatment of skin diseases.
Infoveillance and Critical Analysis of the Systematically Reviewed Literature on Dimethyltryptamine and the “God Molecule”
Authors: Al-Imam Ahmed , Motyka Marek A. , Hoffmann Beata , Magowska Anita , Michalak Michal
Published: June 2023

Aboriginals of Latin America have used DMT (N,N-dimethyltryptamine) in ritualistic ceremonies for centuries. Nevertheless, there are limited data on web users’ interest concerning DMT. We aim to review the literature and explore the spatial–temporal mapping of online search behavior concerning DMT, 5-MeO-DMT, and the Colorado River toad via Google Trends over the past 10 years (2012–2022) while using 5 search terms: “N,N-dimethyltryptamine”, “5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine”, “5-MeO-DMT”, “Colorado River toad”, and “Sonoran Desert toad”. Literature analysis conveyed novel information concerning DMT’s past shamanic and present-day illicit uses, showcased experimental trials on DMT uses for neurotic disorders, and highlighted potential uses in modern medicine. DMT’s geographic mapping signals originated mainly from Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Far East Asia. In contrast, 5-MeO-DMT signals prevailed in Western Europe, Indo-China, and Australasia. Signals concerning the toad originated from the Americas, Australia, India, the Philippines, and Europe. Web users searched the most for “N,N-dimethyltryptamine” and “5-MeO-DMT”. Three terms exhibited significant upgoing linear temporal trends: “5-MeO-DMT” (β = 0.37, p < 0.001), “Sonoran Desert toad” (β = 0.23, p < 0.001), and “Colorado River toad” (β = 0.17, p < 0.001). The literature and Infoedemiology data provided crucial information concerning DMT’s legal status, risks and benefits, and potential for abuse. Nonetheless, we opine that in the upcoming decades, physicians might use DMT to manage neurotic disorders pending a change in its legal status.
Treatment-Related Late Adverse Events in Childhood Cancer Survivors of Mexico: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Pérez-Franco José Fernando , Hernández-Pliego Gabriela , Jacobo-Mendoza Jocelyn , Martínez-Lara Vanessa Karina , Juárez-Villegas Luis Enrique , Clark Patricia , Vargas-Neri Jessica Liliana
Published: June 2023

Late adverse events (LAEs) are an important cause of illness and disability in childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) and increase the risk of mortality. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to describe the frequency and severity of treatment-related LAEs in Mexican CCSs. The study period was between September 2018 and April 2019. We tested a sample of 82 CCSs at the Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez. We considered an LAE to be any medical effect related to treatment after ending cancer therapy. All LAEs were classified according to severity (using the grades of Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v.5.0), diagnosis and time of occurrence after treatment. The treatment-related LAE frequency was 11.0% (95% CI; 4.2–17.8%). A total of 11 LAEs were identified in nine patients. Slightly over half of the patients were male (54.9%). The most frequent diagnosis was acute lymphoblastic leukemia (45.1%). The body systems involved in LAEs were the endocrine (55.6%), neurological (22.2%), auditory (11.1%) and renal (11.1%) systems. Obesity was the most frequent LAE (45.4%). Most LAEs were classified as grade 1 and 2 (60%). The median follow-up was 6.5 years. The odds ratio was used as a measure of association to identify characteristics associated with the LAEs. We identified that the age at diagnosis (OR = 0.71, 95% CI, 0.51–0.99; p = 0.046) and chemotherapy-only group (OR = 0.03, 95% CI, 0.00–0.86, p = 0.040) were associated with LAEs. This is the first study that describes the frequency and severity of LAEs in Mexican childhood cancer survivors.
On the Use of Graphene Nanosheets for Drug Delivery: A Case Study of Cisplatin and Some of Its Analogs
Authors: Ibrahim Mahmoud A. A. , Hamad Manar H. A. , Mahmoud Amna H. M. , Mekhemer Gamal A. H. , Sayed Shaban R. M. , El-Rahman Mohamed K. Abd , Sidhom Peter A. , Dabbish Eslam , Shoeib Tamer
Published: June 2023

Graphene (GN) nanosheets have been widely exploited in biomedical applications as potential nanocarriers for various drugs due to their distinct physical and chemical properties. In this regard, the adsorption behavior of cisplatin (cisPtCl2) and some of its analogs on a GN nanosheet was investigated in perpendicular and parallel configurations by using density functional theory (DFT). According to the findings, the most significant negative adsorption energies (Eads) within the cisPtX2⋯GN complexes (where X = Cl, Br, and I) were observed for the parallel configuration, with values up to –25.67 kcal/mol at the H@GN site. Within the perpendicular configuration of the cisPtX2⋯GN complexes, three orientations were investigated for the adsorption process, namely, X/X, X/NH3, and NH3/NH3. The negative Eads values of the cisPtX2⋯GN complexes increased with the increasing atomic weight of the halogen atom. The Br@GN site showed the largest negative Eads values for the cisPtX2⋯GN complexes in the perpendicular configuration. The Bader charge transfer outcomes highlighted the electron-accepting properties of cisPtI2 within the cisPtI2⋯GN complexes in both configurations. The electron-donating character of the GN nanosheet increased as the electronegativity of the halogen atom increased. The band structure and density of state plots revealed the occurrence of the physical adsorption of the cisPtX2 on the GN nanosheet, which was indicated by the appearance of new bands and peaks. Based on the solvent effect outlines, the negative Eads values generally decreased after the adsorption process in a water medium. The recovery time results were in line with the Eads findings, where the cisPtI2 in the parallel configuration took the longest time to be desorbed from the GN nanosheet with values of 61.6 × 108 ms at 298.15 K. The findings of this study provide better insights into the utilization of GN nanosheets in drug delivery applications.
Intranasal Microemulsion as an Innovative and Promising Alternative to the Oral Route in Improving Stiripentol Brain Targeting
Authors: Meirinho Sara , Rodrigues Márcio , Santos Adriana O. , Falcão Amílcar , Alves Gilberto
Published: June 2023

Stiripentol (STP) is a new-generation antiepileptic only available for oral administration. However, it is extremely unstable in acidic environments and undergoes gastrointestinal slow and incomplete dissolution. Thus, STP intranasal (IN) administration might overcome the high oral doses required to achieve therapeutic concentrations. An IN microemulsion and two variations were herein developed: the first contained a simpler external phase (FS6); the second one 0.25% of chitosan (FS6 + 0.25%CH); and the last 0.25% chitosan plus 1% albumin (FS6 + 0.25%CH + 1%BSA). STP pharmacokinetic profiles in mice were compared after IN (12.5 mg/kg), intravenous (12.5 mg/kg), and oral (100 mg/kg) administrations. All microemulsions homogeneously formed droplets with mean sizes ≤16 nm and pH between 5.5 and 6.2. Compared with oral route, IN FS6 resulted in a 37.4-fold and 110.6-fold increase of STP plasmatic and brain maximum concentrations, respectively. Eight hours after FS6 + 0.25%CH + 1%BSA administration, a second STP brain concentration peak was observed with STP targeting efficiency being 116.9% and direct-transport percentage 14.5%, suggesting that albumin may potentiate a direct STP brain transport. The relative systemic bioavailability was 947% (FS6), 893% (FS6 + 0.25%CH), and 1054% (FS6 + 0.25%CH + 1%BSA). Overall, STP IN administration using the developed microemulsions and significantly lower doses than those orally administrated might be a promising alternative to be clinically tested.