bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Declines in EROI of Main Fuels and the Implications on Developing LNG as a Marine Fuel
Authors: Vaferi Mohammad , Pazouki Kayvan , Klink Arjen Van
Published: September 2020

This article proposes an analytical model for a conversion from Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) to Liquide Natural Gas(LNG) dual-fuel engine in a fleet with three sizes of vessels in order to investigate the impact of the volatility of oil prices, and a declining Energy Return on Investment (EROI) on opting LNG as a reliable marine fuel. This study also attempts to echo the importance of looking through a new window to the process of energy opting in the maritime industries to comply with International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations. With giving this awareness to the maritime society the new investment can be directed to resources that effectively keep the maritime economy growing and can also help build a sustainable future. In order to find the best answer, we need to seek alternative solutions that will sustain shipping’s competitive edge. In the first phase, the impact of a declining EROI gas is investigated. Then, in the second phase, to be able to find an optimal area to run the vessels, we apply the Computerized Engine Application System (CEAS) in order to predict the engine performance of different container vessels and outlined fuel consumption in various market and technical situations. Since the process found is a non-linear system, this paper attempts to investigate the ongoing trend of the EROI of LNG in applying a Net Present Value (NPV) as a simulation method in order to observe the system to which technical variables or legal frameworks is more sensitive. In the following order, we first characterise the uncertainty faced by policy-makers and complexity dynamics implications for investment decision-makers and technology adoption. The practical relevance here of the proposed applied methodology is subsequently discussed in reference to four scenarios relating to the above areas and introduces the most beneficial area between different vital variables and constraints. It is applicable for the management of cascading uncertainties and the cross-sectoral impact by introducing the most beneficial area between various vital variables and constraints; including LNG prices, Capital Expenditure (Capex), Operating Expenditure(Opex) and time of enforcement.
Smart Window with Active-Passive Hybrid Control
Authors: Tseng Heng-Yi , Chang Li-Min , Lin Kuan-Wu , Li Cheng-Chang , Lin Wan-Hsuan , Wang Chun-Ta , Lin Chien-Wen , Liu Shih-Hsien , Lin Tsung-Hsien
Published: September 2020

Dimming and scattering control are two of the major features of smart windows, which provide adjustable sunlight intensity and protect the privacy of people in a building. A hybrid photo- and electrical-controllable smart window that exploits salt and photochromic dichroic dye-doped cholesteric liquid crystal was developed. The photochromic dichroic dye causes a change in transmittance from high to low upon exposure to sunlight. When the light source is removed, the smart window returns from colored to colorless. The salt-doped cholesteric liquid crystal can be bi-stably switched from transparent into the scattering state by a low-frequency voltage pulse and switched back to its transparent state by a high-frequency voltage pulse. In its operating mode, an LC smart window can be passively dimmed by sunlight and the haze can be actively controlled by applying an electrical field to it; it therefore exhibits four optical states—transparent, scattering, dark clear, and dark opaque. Each state is stable in the absence of an applied voltage. This smart window can automatically dim when the sunlight gets stronger, and according to user needs, actively adjust the haze to achieve privacy protection.
Enhanced Chemotherapy for Glioblastoma Multiforme Mediated by Functionalized Graphene Quantum Dots
Authors: Perini Giordano , Palmieri Valentina , Ciasca Gabriele , D’Ascenzo Marcello , Primiano Aniello , Gervasoni Jacopo , De Maio Flavio , De Spirito Marco , Papi Massimiliano
Published: September 2020

Glioblastoma is the most aggressive and lethal brain cancer. Current treatments involve surgical resection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, the life expectancy of patients with this disease remains short and chemotherapy leads to severe adverse effects. Furthermore, the presence of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) makes it difficult for drugs to effectively reach the brain. A promising strategy lies in the use of graphene quantum dots (GQDs), which are light-responsive graphene nanoparticles that have shown the capability of crossing the BBB. Here we investigate the effect of GQDs on U87 human glioblastoma cells and primary cortical neurons. Non-functionalized GQDs (NF-GQDs) demonstrated high biocompatibility, while dimethylformamide-functionalized GQDs (DMF-GQDs) showed a toxic effect on both cell lines. The combination of GQDs and the chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin (Dox) was tested. GQDs exerted a synergistic increase in the efficacy of chemotherapy treatment, specifically on U87 cells. The mechanism underlying this synergy was investigated, and it was found that GQDs can alter membrane permeability in a manner dependent on the surface chemistry, facilitating the uptake of Dox inside U87 cells, but not on cortical neurons. Therefore, experimental evidence indicates that GQDs could be used in a combined therapy against brain cancer, strongly increasing the efficacy of chemotherapy and, at the same time, reducing its dose requirement along with its side effects, thereby improving the life quality of patients.
Solitary Wave Solutions of the Generalized Rosenau-KdV-RLW Equation
Authors: Avazzadeh Zakieh , Nikan Omid , Machado José A. Tenreiro
Published: September 2020

This paper investigates the solitary wave solutions of the generalized Rosenau–Korteweg-de Vries-regularized-long wave equation. This model is obtained by coupling the Rosenau–Korteweg-de Vries and Rosenau-regularized-long wave equations. The solution of the equation is approximated by a local meshless technique called radial basis function (RBF) and the finite-difference (FD) method. The association of the two techniques leads to a meshless algorithm that does not requires the linearization of the nonlinear terms. First, the partial differential equation is transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using radial kernels. Then, the ODE system is solved by means of an ODE solver of higher-order. It is shown that the proposed method is stable. In order to illustrate the validity and the efficiency of the technique, five problems are tested and the results compared with those provided by other schemes.
Optimization of Extraction of Bioactive Peptides from Monkfish (Lophius litulon) and Characterization of Their Role in H2O2-Induced Lesion
Authors: Tian Xiaoxiao , Zheng Jiawen , Xu Baogui , Ye Jiena , Yang Zuisu , Yuan Falei
Published: September 2020

Background: Marine fish meat has been widely used for the extraction of bioactive peptides. This study was aimed to optimize the preparation of monkfish muscle peptides (LPs) using response surface methodology (RSM) and explore the antioxidant activities of <1 kDa LPs. Methods: Peptides were prepared from the muscles of monkfish (Lophius litulon), and five proteases were tested to hydrolyze muscle proteins. The hydrolysate that was treated using neutrase showed the highest degree of hydrolysis (DH) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activities. Results: The optimized conditions were as follows: water/material ratio of 5.4:1, a time span of 5 h, pH of 7.0, enzyme concentration of 2000 U/g, and temperature of 45 °C; the maximum DPPH scavenging activity and DH were 92.861% and 19.302%, respectively. LPs exhibited appreciable antioxidant activities, including DPPH radical, hydroxyl radical, 2,2′-azinobis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate (ABTS) radical, and superoxide anion scavenging activities. LPs attenuated H2O2-related oxidative injury in RAW264.7 cells, reduced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and increased the superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) levels. Conclusion: We concluded that LPs could be an ideal source of bioactive peptides from monkfish and also have pharmaceutical potential.
16S rRNA Sequencing and Metagenomics Study of Gut Microbiota: Implications of BDB on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zhang Liang , Luo Jiao , Li Xiangqian , Guo Shuju , Shi Dayong
Published: September 2020

Gut microbiota has a critical role in metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). 3-bromo-4,5-bis(2,3-dibromo-4,5-dihydroxybenzyl)-1,2-benzenediol (BDB) is a natural bromophenol isolated from marine red alga Rhodomela confervoides. Our latest research showed that BDB could alleviate T2DM in diabetic BKS db mice. To find out whether BDB modulates the composition of the gut microbiota during T2DM treatment, 24 BKS db diabetic mice were randomly grouped to receive BDB (n = 6), metformin (n = 6), or the vehicle (n = 6) for 7 weeks in a blinded manner. Non-diabetic BKS mice (n = 6) were used as normal control. Diabetic mice treated with BDB or metformin demonstrated significant reductions in fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels compared with the vehicle-treated mice in the 7th week. Pyrosequencing of the V3–V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene revealed the changes of gut microbiota in response to BDB treatment. The result demonstrated short-chain acid (SCFA) producing bacteria Lachnospiraceae and Bacteroides were found to be significantly more abundant in the BDB and metformin treated group than the vehicle-treatment diabetic group. Remarkably, at the genus levels, Akkermansia elevated significantly in the BDB-treatment group. Metagenomic results indicated that BDB may alleviate the metabolic disorder of diabetic mice by promoting propanoate metabolism and inhibiting starch and sucrose metabolism, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism. In conclusion, our study suggests that the anti-diabetic effect of BDB is closely related to the modulating structure of gut microbiota and the improvement of functional metabolism genes of intestinal microorganisms.
Impacts of Natural Organic Matter Adhesion on Irreversible Membrane Fouling during Surface Water Treatment Using Ultrafiltration
Authors: Qu Fangshu , Yang Zhimeng , Gao Shanshan , Yu Huarong , He Junguo , Rong Hongwei , Tian Jiayu
Published: September 2020

To understand impacts of organic adhesion on membrane fouling, ultrafiltration (UF) membrane fouling by dissolved natural organic matter (NOM) was investigated in the presence of background cations (Na+ and Ca2+) at typical concentrations in surface water. Moreover, NOM adhesion on the UF membrane was investigated using atomic force microscopy (AFM) with colloidal probes and a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D). The results indicated that the adhesion forces at the NOM-membrane interface increased in the presence of background cations, particularly Ca2+, and that the amount of adhered NOM increased due to reduced electrostatic repulsion. However, the membrane permeability was almost not affected by background cations in the pore blocking-dominated phase but was aggravated to some extent in the cake filtration-governed phase. More importantly, the irreversible NOM fouling was not correlated with the amount of adhered NOM. The assumption for membrane autopsies is doubtful that retained or adsorbed organic materials are necessarily a primary cause of membrane fouling, particularly the irreversible fouling.
Magnetic and Magnetocaloric Effect of Laves Phase Compounds Er(Fe0.8−xMn0.2−yCox+y)2 with x, y = 0.0 or 0.1
Authors: Othmani Safa , Chaaba Ichrak , Haj-Khlifa Sonia , de Rango Patricia , Fruchart Daniel
Published: September 2020

Magnetic and magnetocaloric effect (MCE) of the Er(Fe0.8−xMn0.2−yCox+y)2 Laves phase-type compounds have been investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis has revealed that these compounds crystallize with the C15 type Laves phase structure (Space Group Fd-3m). The magnetization curves indicate a ferri-magnetic-ordering resulting of the antiparallel coupling between the moments of the heavy rare earth Er and the transition metal (TM). The partial substitution of Fe/Mn by Co increases the Curie temperature from 355 K for Er(Fe0.8Mn0.2)2 to 475, 550, and 555 K for Er(Fe0.7Mn0.2Co0.1)2, Er(Fe0.8Mn0.1Co0.1)2, and Er(Fe0.7Mn0.1Co0.2)2, respectively. According to the nature of the TM elements, arguments were presented forwards either Molecular Field or Spin Fluctuation Theory, even Stoner type pictures should be considered for. MCE was calculated according to the Maxwell relation based on isotherm magnetization measurements. The magnetic entropy change (−∆SM) observed on a 300–400 K temperature range can be understood in terms of a Spin Fluctuation Theory picture supported by both the different magnetic polarization levels that were shared by the TM elements and the related interatomic exchange forces.
Prediction of Longitudinal Curvature Radius of 3D Surface Based on Quadratic Relationship between Strain and Coordinates in Continuous Roll Forming
Authors: Gao Jiaxin , He Dongye , Sun Lirong , Zhang Xi , Cai Zhongyi
Published: September 2020

Continuous roll forming (CRF) is a new method for the rapid forming of three-dimensional (3D) surfaces developed in recent years, and the significant advantage of CRF compared with traditional die forming is that the longitudinal dimension of the sheet metal is not limited. By controlling the curvature radius and gap shape of upper and lower bending rolls, three-dimensional parts with different shapes and sizes can be precisely formed. When the elastic deformation is ignored during the forming process, the transversal curvature radius of the three-dimensional surface is consistent with the radius of the roll gap centerline. Therefore, the calculation of longitudinal curvature radius is the key to improve the accuracy of the 3D surface in CRF. In this paper, the basic principle of CRF is described. The modified formulas for calculating the longitudinal curvature radius of convex and saddle surfaces based on the quadratic relationship between the strain and coordinates are deduced in detail, and the corresponding design method of the roll gap is derived. Furthermore, the mathematical equations of convex and saddle surfaces are given. Through numerical simulation and theoretical analysis, it is found that the relative errors of the longitudinal centerline radius are reduced from 13.67% before modification to 4.35% after modification for a convex surface and 6.81% to 0.41% for a saddle surface when the transversal curvature radius is 800 mm and the compression ratio is 5%. The experimental and measured results indicate that the shapes of formed parts are more consistent with the target parts after modification, which further proves the applicability of the modified formulas.
Development and Application of High-Temperature Constitutive Model of HNi55-7-4-2 Alloy
Authors: Liang Qiang , Liu Xin , Li Ping , Ding Ping , Zhang Xianming
Published: September 2020

The constitutive model is still not available for theoretical and engineering analysis of HNi55-7-4-2 alloy, which is a new type of wear-resistant brass alloy widely applied to car synchronizer rings and ship condenser tubes etc. In the current investigation, a friction-corrected stress-strain curve was obtained through a hot-compression test to develop the high-temperature constitutive model of HNi55-7-4-2 alloy based on the Hansel–Spittel model. By comparing predicted flow stress and a simulated force-stroke curve with experimental results, the proposed constitutive model was verified. The developed constitutive model was applied to numerically simulate the hot precision forging of a synchronizer ring. The simulation results based on two process plans on material flow and forging defects were validated by process experiment. The Hansel–Spittel high-temperature constitutive model proposed in this work enables the theoretical and engineering analysis of HNi55-7-4-2 alloy.
Complex Concentrated Alloys (CCAs)—Current Understanding and Future Opportunities
Authors: Mukherjee Sundeep
Published: September 2020

Complex concentrated alloys with multiple principal elements represent a new paradigm in alloy design by focusing on the central region of a multi-component phase space and show a promising range of properties unachievable in conventional alloys [...]
The Evolution of Microstructure, Mechanical Properties and Fracture Behavior with Increasing Lanthanum Content in AZ91 Alloy
Authors: Tie Di , Jiang Yi , Guan Renguo , Chen Minfang , Jiang Jufu , Gao Fei , Lu Xiaopeng , Zhao Zhanyong
Published: September 2020

AZ91 alloy is a widely applied commercial magnesium alloy due to its good castability, balanced mechanical properties and acceptable price, and lanthanum alloying has been proven to be one of the most effective methods to further improve its mechanical properties. Therefore, we reveal the evolution of microstructure, mechanical properties and fracture behavior with increasing lanthanum content in AZ91 alloy in this study. The magnesium matrix was significantly refined by lanthanum content, and this effect became more evident with increasing addition of lanthanum. The presence of Al3La precipitates significantly reduced the grain mobility and suppressed the formation of Mg17Al12 discontinuous precipitates along the grain boundaries. The rheo-cast alloys exhibited improved and balanced tensile strength and ductility after aging treatment. The fracture type of AZ91-La alloys could be classified as ductile fracture due to the presence of less quasi-cleavage planes and more dimples with a mixture of tear ridges and micropores. Due to the fully refined microstructure and the balanced mechanical properties, the AZ91–1.0La (mass%) alloy presented the greatest potential for industrial applications among the three studied AZ91-La alloys.
Effects of Laser Melting Distribution on Wear Resistance and Fatigue Resistance of Gray Cast Iron
Authors: Yang Haiyang , Zhou Ti , Wang Qingnian , Zhou Hong
Published: September 2020

The coupling bionic surface is generally prepared by laser melting on the surface of a gray iron brake hub, which can allow the brake hub to achieve excellent wear resistance and fatigue resistance. The designs of most previous experiments have been based on independent units that were uniform in their distribution patterns. Although some progress has been made in the optimization of cell features, there is still room for further improvement with respect to bionics and experimental optimization methods. Here, experiments on units with non-uniform distributions of different distances were used to rearrange and combine the bionic elements. This paper is that the original uniform distribution laser melting strengthening model was designed as a non-uniform distribution model, and the heat preservation and tempering strengthening effect of continuous multiple melting strengthening on the microstructure of the melting zone is discussed. The mechanism of crack initiation and the mode of crack propagation were analyzed. The relationship between the internal stress in the melting zone and the crack initiation resistance was also discussed. In this paper, the mechanism of different spacing distribution on the surface of gray cast iron by laser remelting is put forward innovatively and verified by experiments, which provides a solid theoretical basis for the follow-up industrial application.
Microfabrication Process-Driven Design, FEM Analysis and System Modeling of 3-DoF Drive Mode and 2-DoF Sense Mode Thermally Stable Non-Resonant MEMS Gyroscope
Authors: Bukhari Syed Ali Raza , Saleem Muhammad Mubasher , Khan Umar Shahbaz , Hamza Amir , Iqbal Javaid , Shakoor Rana Iqtidar
Published: September 2020

This paper presents microfabrication process-driven design of a multi-degree of freedom (multi-DoF) non-resonant electrostatic microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) gyroscope by considering the design constraints of commercially available low-cost and widely-used silicon-on-insulator multi-user MEMS processes (SOIMUMPs), with silicon as a structural material. The proposed design consists of a 3-DoF drive mode oscillator with the concept of addition of a collider mass which transmits energy from the drive mass to the passive sense mass. In the sense direction, 2-DoF sense mode oscillator is used to achieve dynamically-amplified displacement in the sense mass. A detailed analytical model for the dynamic response of MEMS gyroscope is presented and performance characteristics are validated through finite element method (FEM)-based simulations. The effect of operating air pressure and temperature variations on the air damping and resulting dynamic response is analyzed. The thermal stability of the design and corresponding effect on the mechanical and capacitive sensitivity, for an operating temperature range of −40 °C to 100 °C, is presented. The results showed that the proposed design is thermally stable, robust to environmental variations, and process tolerances with a wide operational bandwidth and high sensitivity. Moreover, a system-level model of the proposed gyroscope and its integration with the sensor electronics is presented to estimate the voltage sensitivity under the constraints of the readout electronic circuit.
A Protective Vaccine against Johne’s Disease in Cattle
Authors: Phanse Yashdeep , Wu Chia-Wei , Venturino Amanda J. , Hansen Chungyi , Nelson Kathryn , Broderick Scott R , Steinberg Howard , Talaat Adel M.
Published: September 2020

Johne’s disease (JD) caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (M. paratuberculosis) is a chronic infection characterized by the development of granulomatous enteritis in wild and domesticated ruminants. It is one of the most significant livestock diseases not only in the USA but also globally, accounting for USD 200–500 million losses annually for the USA alone with potential link to cases of Crohn’s disease in humans. Developing safe and protective vaccines is of a paramount importance for JD control in dairy cows. The current study evaluated the safety, immunity and protective efficacy of a novel live attenuated vaccine (LAV) candidate with and without an adjuvant in comparison to an inactivated vaccine. Results indicated that the LAV, irrespective of the adjuvant presence, induced robust T cell immune responses indicated by proinflammatory cytokine production such as IFN-γ, IFN-α, TNF-α and IL-17 as well as strong response to intradermal skin test against M. paratuberculosis antigens. Furthermore, the LAV was safe with minimal tissue pathology. Finally, calves vaccinated with adjuvanted LAV did not shed M. paratuberculosis post-challenge, a much-desired characteristic of an effective vaccine against JD. Together, this data suggests a strong potential of testing LAV in field trials to curb JD in dairy herds.
Alteration of Granitoids and Uranium Mineralization in the Blatná Suite of the Central Bohemian Plutonic Complex, Czech Republic
Authors: René Miloš
Published: September 2020

The Bohemian magmatic complex belongs to granitoid plutons of the Central European Variscides. Hydrothermal uranium mineralization evolved in the small uranium deposits Nahošín and Mečichov is associated with N–S shear zones occurring on the SW margin of the Central Bohemian plutonic complex formed by amphibole-bearing biotite granodiorites of the Blatná suite. The purpose of presented study is description of uranium mineralization bounded on brittle shear zones, which is coupled with intense low-temperature hydrothermal alteration of granitic rocks. Uranium mineralization, formed predominantly of coffinite, rare uraninite, and thorite, is accompanied by intense hematitization, albitization, chloritization, and carbonatization of original granitic rocks that could be described as aceites. These alterations are accompanied by the enrichment in U, Ti, Mg, Ca, Na, K, Y, and Zr and depletion in Si, Ba, and Sr. The analyzed coffinite is enriched in Y (up to 3.1 wt % Y2O3). Uraninite is enriched in Th (up to 9.8 wt % ThO2) and thorite is enriched in Zr (up to 5.7 wt % ZrO2). The REE-elements are concentrated in the REE-fluorcarbonate synchysite-(Ce).
Biased Opioid Ligands
Authors: Faouzi Abdelfattah , Varga Balazs R. , Majumdar Susruta
Published: September 2020

Achieving effective pain management is one of the major challenges associated with modern day medicine. Opioids, such as morphine, have been the reference treatment for moderate to severe acute pain not excluding chronic pain modalities. Opioids act through the opioid receptors, the family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) that mediate pain relief through both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Four types of opioid receptors have been described, including the μ-opioid receptor (MOR), κ-opioid receptor (KOR), δ-opioid receptor (DOR), and the nociceptin opioid peptide receptor (NOP receptor). Despite the proven success of opioids in treating pain, there are still some inherent limitations. All clinically approved MOR analgesics are associated with adverse effects, which include tolerance, dependence, addiction, constipation, and respiratory depression. On the other hand, KOR selective analgesics have found limited clinical utility because they cause sedation, anxiety, dysphoria, and hallucinations. DOR agonists have also been investigated but they have a tendency to cause convulsions. Ligands targeting NOP receptor have been reported in the preclinical literature to be useful as spinal analgesics and as entities against substance abuse disorders while mixed MOR/NOP receptor agonists are useful as analgesics. Ultimately, the goal of opioid-related drug development has always been to design and synthesize derivatives that are equally or more potent than morphine but most importantly are devoid of the dangerous residual side effects and abuse potential. One proposed strategy is to take advantage of biased agonism, in which distinct downstream pathways can be activated by different molecules working through the exact same receptor. It has been proposed that ligands not recruiting β-arrestin 2 or showing a preference for activating a specific G-protein mediated signal transduction pathway will function as safer analgesic across all opioid subtypes. This review will focus on the design and the pharmacological outcomes of biased ligands at the opioid receptors, aiming at achieving functional selectivity.
Aligning Realities: Correlating Content between Projected and Head Worn Displays
Authors: Walsh James , Thomas Bruce H.
Published: September 2020

Enabling the effective representation of an object’s position and depth in augmented reality (AR) is crucial not just for realism, but also to enable augmented reality’s wider utilization in real world applications. Domains such as architecture and building design cannot leverage AR’s advantages without the effective representation of position. Prior work has examined how the human visual system perceives and interprets such cues in AR. However, it has focused on application systems that only use a single AR modality, i.e., head-mounted display, tablet/handheld, or projection. However, given the respective limitations of each modality regarding shared experience, stereo display, field of view, etc., prior work has ignored the possible benefits of utilizing multiple AR modalities together. By using multiple AR systems together, we can attempt to address the deficiencies of one modality by leveraging the features of other modalities. This work examines methods for representing position in a multi-modal AR system consisting of a stereo head-mounted display and a ceiling mounted projection system. Given that the AR content is now rendered across two separate AR realities, how does the user know which projected object matches the object shown in their head-mounted display? We explore representations to correlate and fuse objects across modalities. In this paper, we review previous work on position and depth in AR, before then describing multiple representations for head-mounted and projector-based AR that can be paired together across modalities. To the authors’ knowledge, this work represents the first step towards utilizing multiple AR modalities in which the AR content is designed directly to compliment deficiencies in the other modality.
Green Synthesis, Characterization, Antimicrobial, Anti-Cancer, and Optimization of Colorimetric Sensing of Hydrogen Peroxide of Algae Extract Capped Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Elgamouz Abdelaziz , Idriss Hamid , Nassab Chahlaa , Bihi Alaa , Bajou Khalid , Hasan Kamrul , Abu Haija Mohammad , Patole Shashikant P.
Published: September 2020

A green and cost-effective technique for the preparation of silver nanoparticles (Algae-AgNPs) as a colorimetric sensor for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is described. Silver nanoparticles were capped using the green algae (Noctiluca scintillans) extract at an optimum time of 3 h at 80 °C. The pH of the plant extract (pH = 7.0) yields nanoparticles with a mean size of 4.13 nm and a zeta potential of 0.200 ± 0.02 mV and negative polarity, using dynamic light scattering (DLS). High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) analysis showed regular spherical particles with the average size of 4.5 nm. Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) results revealed the polycrystalline nature of the silver nanoparticles. The obtained patterns were indexed as (111), (200), (220), and (311) reflections of the fcc (face centered cubic) silver crystal based on their d-spacing of 2.47, 2.13, 1.49, and 1.27 Å, respectively. The apparent color change from brown to colorless was observed when nanoparticles reacted with H2O2. Linear responses were obtained in three different ranges (nM, µM, and mM). Limits of detection (LOD) of 1.33 ± 0.02 and 1.77 ± 0.02 nM and quantitation limits (LOQ) of 7.31 ± 0.03 and 9.67 ± 0.03 nM were obtained for Abs and ΔAbs calibration curves, respectively. 10% v/v Algae-AgNPs solution inhibited Staphylococcus aureus over Escherichia coli, while a 50% reduction of tumor cell growth of MDA-MB-231 human breast adenocarcinoma was obtained.
Metasurface Spiral Focusing Generators with Tunable Orbital Angular Momentum Based on Slab Silicon Nitride Waveguide and Vanadium Dioxide (VO2)
Authors: Chen Li , Zhao Lin , Hao Yuan , Liu Wenyi , Wu Yi , Wei Zhongchao , Xu Ning , Qin Shuai , Yang Xiangbo , Liu Hongzhan
Published: September 2020

The metasurface spiral focusing (MSF) generator has gained attention in high-speed optical communications due to its spatial orthogonality. However, previous MSF generators only can generate a single orbital angular momentum (OAM) mode for one polarized light. Here, a MSF generator with tunable OAM is proposed and it has the ability to transform linearly polarized light (LPL), circularly polarized light or Gaussian beams into vortex beams which can carry tunable OAM at near-infrared wavelength by controlling the phase transition of vanadium dioxide (VO2). Utilizing this MSF generator, the beams can be focused on several wavelength-sized rings with efficiency as high as 76%, 32% when VO2 are in the insulating phase and in the metallic phase, respectively. Moreover, we reveal the relationship between the reflective focal length and transmissive focal length, and the latter is 2.3 times of the former. We further demonstrate the impact of Gaussian beams with different waist sizes on MSF generators: the increase in waist size produces the enhancement in spiral focusing efficiency and the decrease in size of focal ring. The MSF generator we proposed will be applicable to a variety of integrated compact optical systems, such as optical communication systems and optical trapping systems.
Production and Properties of Molybdenum Disulfide/Graphene Oxide Hybrid Nanostructures for Catalytic Applications
Authors: Bojarska Zuzanna , Mazurkiewicz-Pawlicka Marta , Gierlotka Stanisław , Makowski Łukasz
Published: September 2020

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) can be an excellent candidate for being combined with carbon nanomaterials to obtain new hybrid nanostructures with outstanding properties, including higher catalytic activity. The aim of the conducted research was to develop the novel production method of hybrid nanostructures formed from MoS2 and graphene oxide (GO). The nanostructures were synthesized in different weight ratios and in two types of reactors (i.e., impinging jet and semi-batch reactors). Physicochemical analysis of the obtained materials was carried out, using various analytical techniques: particle size distribution (PSD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), FT-IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Due to the potential application of materials based on MoS2 as the catalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction, linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) of the commercial MoS2, synthesized MoS2 and the obtained hybrid nanostructures was performed using a three-electrode system. The results show that the developed synthesis of hybrid MoS2/GO nanostructures in continuous reactors is a novel and facile method for obtaining products with desired properties. The hybrid nanostructures have shown better electrochemical properties and higher onset potentials compared to MoS2 nanoparticles. The results indicate that the addition of carbon nanomaterials during the synthesis improves the activity and stability of the MoS2 nanoparticles.
Methylglyoxal Decoration of Glutenin during Heat Processing Could Alleviate the Resulting Allergic Reaction in Mice
Authors: Wang Yaya , Li Xiang , Wu Sihao , Dong Lu , Hu Yaozhong , Wang Junping , Zhang Yan , Wang Shuo
Published: September 2020

Background: It is widely believed that Maillard reactions could affect the sensitization of allergens. However, the mechanism of action of methylglyoxal (MGO) production in Maillard reactions in the sensitization variation of glutenin (a predominant allergen in wheat) during heat processing is still unclear. Methods: This research evaluated the effect of MGO on the immune response against glutenin in a mouse model. The resulting variations in conformation and corresponding digestibility of glutenin were determined. The immune response and gut microflora variation in mice were analyzed following administering of glutenin and MGO-glutenin. Results: The results of the study showed that MGO-glutenin induced a lower immune response than native glutenin. Cytokine analysis showed that MGO-glutenin regulated mouse immune response by inducing Treg differentiation. MGO decoration changed the structure and digestibility of glutenin. In addition, MGO-glutenin contributes to the maintenance of the beneficial gut microflora. Conclusion: MGO decoration of glutenin during heat processing could alleviate the resulting allergic reaction in mice. Decoration with MGO appears to contribute to the aggregation of glutenin, potentially masking surface epitopes and abating sensitization. Furthermore, Bacteroides induced regulatory T-cell (Treg) differentiation, which may contribute to inhibition of the Th2 immune response and stimulation of immune tolerance.
Sex-Specific Association between Social Frailty and Diet Quality, Diet Quantity, and Nutrition in Community-Dwelling Elderly
Authors: Huang Chi Hsien , Okada Kiwako , Matsushita Eiji , Uno Chiharu , Satake Shosuke , Arakawa Martins Beatriz , Kuzuya Masafumi
Published: September 2020

The effects of social frailty on diet and nutrition are under-investigated. Our study aimed to assess the association between social frailty and diet quality, diet quantity, and nutrition over a 3-year period in community-dwelling older Japanese adults. This prospective cohort study recruited individuals aged ≥60 years from a community college and followed up 666 participants annually. Social frailty was determined using a 4-item questionnaire. Diet quantity (energy and macronutrient intake) and diet quality (dietary diversity score and Diet Quality Index-International) were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Nutrition was evaluated using the Mini-Nutritional Assessment (MNA). Out of the 666 participants (56.5% women), 250 (37.5%) were categorized as having social prefrailty or frailty. Regarding diet quantity, energy intake (β = −1.59kcal/kg/day, p < 0.01) and nutrient intake (protein intake, β = −0.08g/kg/day; fat intake, β = −0.06g/kg/day; carbohydrate intake, β = −0.18g/kg/day; fiber intake, β = −0.01g/kg/day; all p < 0.05) were lower in men with social prefrailty or frailty than in men with social robustness. Dietary diversity score (β = −0.25, p = 0.01) and MNA score (β = −0.32, p = 0.04) decreased in men with social prefrailty or frailty. However, these associations were not observed in women. Social frailty is associated with lower dietary intake, poor diet quality, and poor nutrition among community-dwelling older men. Future studies are required to determine the benefits of sex-specific interventions targeting social frailty on nutritional outcomes.
The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Taurine on Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Qaradakhi Tawar , Gadanec Laura Kate , McSweeney Kristen Renee , Abraham Jemma Rose , Apostolopoulos Vasso , Zulli Anthony
Published: September 2020

Taurine is a non-protein amino acid that is expressed in the majority of animal tissues. With its unique sulfonic acid makeup, taurine influences cellular functions, including osmoregulation, antioxidation, ion movement modulation, and conjugation of bile acids. Taurine exerts anti-inflammatory effects that improve diabetes and has shown benefits to the cardiovascular system, possibly by inhibition of the renin angiotensin system. The beneficial effects of taurine are reviewed.
Fast-Growing Alveolar Echinococcosis Following Lung Transplantation
Authors: Dupont Clarisse , Grenouillet Fréderic , Mabrut Jean-Yves , Gay Frédérique , Persat Florence , Wallon Martine , Mornex Jean-François , Philit François , Dupont Damien
Published: September 2020

Alveolar echinococcosis is a rare but life-threatening infection caused by the parasite Echinococcus multilocularis. Its natural history is characterized by a slow parasitic growth over several years. Increased incidence and shorter development delay have been reported in immune-compromised patients. We report the reactivation of aborted lesions within 12 months of lung transplantation leading to a fast-growing aggressive hepatic lesion. Timely identification of alveolar echninococcosis allowed prompt albendazole treatment and radical surgery leading to a favorable outcome 42 months after transplantation. However, close clinical, serological and radiological monitoring is required to rule out relapses in the long term. The pre-existence of aborted self-limited lesions of alveolar echinococcosis and the possibility for their atypical rapid growth in patients undergoing profound immunosuppression should be known by healthcare providers, even if working in non-endemic areas.
Drugs Modulating CD4+ T Cells Blood–Brain Barrier Interaction in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Kubick Norwin , Flournoy Patrick C. Henckell , Enciu Ana-Maria , Manda Gina , Mickael Michel-Edwar
Published: September 2020

The effect of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) medications on CD4+ T cells homing has not been thoroughly investigated. CD4+ T cells could both exacerbate and reduce AD symptoms based on their infiltrating subpopulations. Proinflammatory subpopulations such as Th1 and Th17 constitute a major source of proinflammatory cytokines that reduce endothelial integrity and stimulate astrocytes, resulting in the production of amyloid β. Anti-inflammatory subpopulations such as Th2 and Tregs reduce inflammation and regulate the function of Th1 and Th17. Recently, pathogenic Th17 has been shown to have a superior infiltrating capacity compared to other major CD4+ T cell subpopulations. Alzheimer’s drugs such as donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), galantamine (Razadyne), and memantine (Namenda) are known to play an important part in regulating the mechanisms of the neurotransmitters. However, little is known about the effect of these drugs on CD4+ T cell subpopulations’ infiltration of the brain during AD. In this review, we focus on understanding the influence of AD drugs on CD4+ T cell subpopulation interactions with the BBB in AD. While current AD therapies improve endothelial integrity and reduce astrocytes activations, they vary according to their influence on various CD4+ T cell subpopulations. Donepezil reduces the numbers of Th1 but not Th2, Rivastigmine inhibits Th1 and Th17 but not Th2, and memantine reduces Th1 but not Treg. However, none of the current AD drugs is specifically designed to target the dysregulated balance in the Th17/Treg axis. Future drug design approaches should specifically consider inhibiting CD4+ Th17 to improve AD prognosis.
Cellulose/Collagen Dressings for Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Review
Authors: Naomi Ruth , Fauzi Mh Busra
Published: September 2020

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is currently a global concern and it requires urgent attention, as the cost allocation by the government for DFU increases every year. This review was performed to provide scientific evidence on the advanced biomaterials that can be utilised as a first-line treatment for DFU patients. Cellulose/collagen dressings have a biological property on non-healing wounds, such as DFU. This review aims to analyse scientific-based evidence of cellulose/collagen dressing for DFU. It has been proven that the healing rate of cellulose/collagen dressing for DFU patients demonstrated a significant improvement in wound closure as compared to current standard or conventional dressings. It has been scientifically proven that cellulose/collagen dressing provides a positive effect on non-healing DFU. There is a high tendency for cellulose/collagen dressing to be used, as it highly promotes angiogenesis with a rapid re-epithelisation rate that has been proven effective in clinical trials.
Enhanced Intestinal Absorption and Pharmacokinetic Modulation of Berberine and Its Metabolites through the Inhibition of P-Glycoprotein and Intestinal Metabolism in Rats Using a Berberine Mixed Micelle Formulation
Authors: Kwon Mihwa , Lim Dong Yu , Lee Chul Haeng , Jeon Ji-Hyeon , Choi Min-Koo , Song Im-Sook
Published: September 2020

We aimed to develop a berberine formulation to enhance the intestinal absorption and plasma concentrations of berberine through the inhibition of P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated efflux and the intestinal metabolism of berberine in rats. We used pluronic P85 (P85) and tween 80, which have the potential to inhibit P-gp and cytochrome P450s (i.e., CYP1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, and 3A4). A berberine-loaded mixed micelle formulation with ratios of berberine: P85: tween 80 of 1:5:0.5 (w/w/w) was developed. This berberine mixed micelle formulation had a mean size of 12 nm and increased the cellular accumulation of digoxin via P-gp inhibition. It also inhibited berberine metabolism in rat intestinal microsomes, without significant cytotoxicity, up to a berberine concentration of 100 μM. Next, we compared the pharmacokinetics of berberine and its major metabolites in rat plasma following the oral administration of the berberine formulation (50 mg/kg) in rats with the oral administration of berberine alone (50 mg/kg). The plasma exposure of berberine was significantly greater in rats administered the berberine formulation compared to rats administered only berberine, which could be attributed to the increased berberine absorption by inhibiting the P-gp-mediated berberine efflux and intestinal berberine metabolism by berberine formulation. In conclusion, we successfully prepared berberine mixed micelle formulation using P85 and tween 80 that has inhibitory potential for P-gp and CYPs (CYP2C19, 2D6, and 3A4) and increased the berberine plasma exposure. Therefore, a mixed micelle formulation strategy with P85 and tween 80 for drugs with high intestinal first-pass effects could be applied to increase the oral absorption and plasma concentrations of the drugs.
Biodegradable Electrospun Nonwovens Releasing Propolis as a Promising Dressing Material for Burn Wound Treatment
Authors: Stojko Mateusz , Włodarczyk Jakub , Sobota Michał , Karpeta-Jarząbek Paulina , Pastusiak Małgorzata , Janeczek Henryk , Dobrzyński Piotr , Starczynowska Gabriela , Orchel Arkadiusz , Stojko Jerzy , Batoryna Olgierd , Olczyk Paweł , Komosińska-Vassev Katarzyna , Olczyk Krystyna , Kasperczyk Janusz
Published: September 2020

The selection of dressing is crucial for the wound healing process. Traditional dressings protect against contamination and mechanical damage of an injured tissue. Alternatives for standard dressings are regenerating systems containing a polymer with an incorporated active compound. The aim of this research was to obtain a biodegradable wound dressing releasing propolis in a controlled manner throughout the healing process. Dressings were obtained by electrospinning a poly(lactide-co-glycolide) copolymer (PLGA) and propolis solution. The experiment consisted of in vitro drug release studies and in vivo macroscopic treatment evaluation. In in vitro studies released active compounds, the morphology of nonwovens, chemical composition changes of polymeric material during degradation process, weight loss and water absorption were determined. For in vivo research, four domestic pigs, were used. The 21-day experiment consisted of observation of healing third-degree burn wounds supplied with PLGA 85/15 nonwovens without active compound, with 5 wt % and 10 wt % of propolis, and wounds rinsed with NaCl. The in vitro experiment showed that controlling the molar ratio of lactidyl to glycolidyl units in the PLGA copolymer gives the opportunity to change the release profile of propolis from the nonwoven. The in vivo research showed that PLGA nonwovens with propolis may be a promising dressing material in the treatment of severe burn wounds.
Recycling of Almond By-Products for Intestinal Inflammation: Improvement of Physical-Chemical, Technological and Biological Characteristics of a Dried Almond Skins Extract
Authors: Lauro Maria Rosaria , Marzocco Stefania , Rapa Shara Francesca , Musumeci Teresa , Giannone Virgilio , Picerno Patrizia , Aquino Rita Patrizia , Puglisi Giovanni
Published: September 2020

Background: Almond skins are rich in bioactive compounds that undergo oxidation/degradation phenomena and are poorly soluble in water, reducing in vivo absorption and bioavailability, factors that influence the pharmacological activity of an active product. We developed a dried acetonic almond skins extract/cyclodextrin complex to improve extract solubility, dissolution rate and biological activity. Methods: A lyophilized acetonic almond skin extract was produced. To optimize complex formulation, phase solubility studies and complex characterization (absorption studies, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), morphology, solubility studies) were performed. To evaluate a possible use in healthy products, tumor necrosis factor-α levels and reactive oxygen species release, as well as cicloxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression in intestinal epithelial cells, were also evaluated. Results: Phase solubility studies showed a Bs-type profile. A 1:1 dried acetonic almond skins extract/cyclodextrin ratio was able to improve extract water solubility and dissolution rate (100% in 45 min). The UV-Vis spectra of complex revealed a hypsochromic and hyperchromic effect, probably due to a partial inclusion of extract in cyclodextrin cavity through weak bonds, confirmed by DSC and morphology studies. The technological improvement in the extract characteristics also led to better biological activity. In fact, the complex effectively reduces tumor necrosis factor-α levels with respect to the pure extract and significantly inhibits the reactive oxygen species release, even if only at the lower concentration of 5 μg/mL. Conclusion: The complex was able to overcome solubility problems and could be used in inflammatory disease.