bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Human Thermal Load in Fog
Authors: Kristóf Erzsébet , Ács Ferenc , Zsákai Annamária
Published: February 2024

We characterized the thermal load of a person walking and/or standing in the fog by analyzing the thermal resistance of clothing, rcl, and operative temperature, To. The rcl–To model applies to individuals using weather data. The body mass index and basal metabolic flux density values of the person analyzed in this study are 25 kg m−2 and 40 W m−2, respectively. Weather data are taken from the nearest automatic weather station. We observed 146 fog events in the period 2017–2024 in Martonvásár (Hungary’s Great Plain region, Central Europe). The main results are as follows: (1) The rcl and To values were mostly between 2 and 0.5 clo and −4 and 16 °C during fog events, respectively. (2) The largest and smallest rcl and To values were around 2.5 and 0 clo and −7 and 22 °C, respectively. (3) The rcl differences resulting from interpersonal and wind speed variability are comparable, with a maximum value of around 0.5–0.7 clo. (4) Finally, rcl values are significantly different for standing and walking persons. At the very end, we can emphasize that the thermal load of the fog depends noticeably on the person’s activity and anthropometric characteristics.
Deep Learning for Concrete Crack Detection and Measurement
Authors: Nyathi Mthabisi Adriano , Bai Jiping , Wilson Ian David
Published: February 2024

Concrete structures inevitably experience cracking, which is a common form of damage. If cracks are left undetected and allowed to worsen, catastrophic failures, with costly implications for human life and the economy, can occur. Traditional image processing techniques for crack detection and measurement have several limitations, which include complex parameter selection and restriction to measuring cracks in pixels, rather than more practical units of millimetres. This paper presents a three-stage approach that utilises deep learning and image processing for crack classification, segmentation and measurement. In the first two stages, custom CNN and U-Net models were employed for crack classification and segmentation. The final stage involved measuring crack width in millimetres by using a novel laser calibration method. The classification and segmentation models achieved 99.22% and 96.54% accuracy, respectively, while the mean absolute error observed for crack width measurement was 0.16 mm. The results demonstrate the adequacy of the developed crack detection and measurement method, and shows the developed deep learning and laser calibration method promotes safer, quicker inspections that are less prone to human error. The method’s ability to measure cracks in millimetres provides a more insightful assessment of structural damage, which is, in comparison to traditional pixel-based measurement methods, a significant improvement for practical field applications.
Digital Electronic System-on-Chip Design: Methodologies, Tools, Evolution, and Trends
Authors: Cirstea Marcian , Benkrid Khaled , Dinu Andrei , Ghiriti Romeo , Petreus Dorin
Published: February 2024

This paper reviews the evolution of methodologies and tools for modeling, simulation, and design of digital electronic system-on-chip (SoC) implementations, with a focus on industrial electronics applications. Key technological, economic, and geopolitical trends are presented at the outset, before reviewing SoC design methodologies and tools. The fundamentals of SoC design flows are laid out. The paper then exposes the crucial role of the intellectual property (IP) industry in the relentless improvements in performance, power, area, and cost (PPAC) attributes of SoCs. High abstraction levels in design capture and increasingly automated design tools (e.g., for verification and validation, synthesis, place, and route) continue to push the boundaries. Aerospace and automotive domains are included as brief case studies. This paper also presents current and future trends in SoC design and implementation including the rising, evolution, and usage of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, techniques, and tools, which promise even greater PPAC optimizations.
One-Pot Facile Synthesis of a Cluster of ZnS Low-Dimensional Nanoparticles for High-Performance Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Mane Sagar , Wagh Komal , Teli Aviraj , Beknalkar Sonali , Shin Jae , Lee Jaewoong
Published: February 2024

To maximize the use of ZnS low-dimensional nanoparticles as high-performance supercapacitor electrodes, this work describes a simple one-pot synthesis method for producing a cluster of these particles. The ZnS nanoparticles fabricated in this work exhibit a cluster with unique low-dimensional (0D, 1D, and 2D) characteristics. Structural, morphological, and electrochemical investigations are all part of the thorough characterization of the produced materials. An X-ray diffraction pattern of clustered ZnS nanoparticles reflects the phase formation with highly stable cubic blende sphalerite polymorph. The confirmation of nanoparticle cluster formation featuring multiple low-dimensional nanostructures was achieved through field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), while the internal structure was assessed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Systematically assessing the ZnS nanoparticles’ electrochemical performance reveals their prospective qualities as supercapacitor electrode materials. The electrode assembled with this material on Ni foam demonstrates elevated specific capacitance (areal capacitance) values, reaching 716.8 F.g⁻1 (2150.4 mF.cm−2) at a current density of 3 mA.cm⁻2. Moreover, it reflects 69.1% capacitance retention with a four times increase in current density, i.e., 495.5 F.g−1 (1486.56 mF.cm−2) capacitance was archived at 12 mA.cm−2 with 100% Coulombic efficiency. Furthermore, the electrode exhibits prolonged cycling capability with 77.7% capacitance retention, as evidenced by its charge–discharge measurements sustained over 15,000 cycles at a current density of 25 mA cm⁻2.
Enhancing Flame Retardancy: Enrichment of Huntite for Paint Industry Applications
Authors: Türk Tülay , Üçerler Zeynep , Sökmen İpek , Kangal Murat Olgaç
Published: February 2024

Huntite, a naturally occurring carbonate mineral, originates through the alteration processes of dolomite and magnesite. While its structural characteristics align with typical carbonate minerals, its distinction arises from its polyhedral conjunctiveness. The versatile utility of huntite spans several industries, including paint, flame retardant, plastic, polymer, and pharmaceutical sectors. Noteworthy among its diverse applications is its utilization as a flame-retardant additive in raw materials. In this investigation, three samples received from the Denizli region of Turkey were subjected to detailed analysis followed by an enrichment process involving mechanical attrition and sieving of 38 microns where undersize products were obtained, exhibiting 86.9% huntite for the H-1 sample and 91.9% huntite for the H-2–3 sample. The huntite concentrates were then incorporated into paint formulations with the objective of enhancing flame retardancy. A series of testing protocols were implemented to assess the quality of the resulting paints, ultimately yielding a fire-resistant paint formulation through utilizing the H-1 sample.
Comparison of ZrO2 Particles and Polyaniline as Additives in Polystyrene-Based Sorbents for the Micro-Solid Phase Extraction of Psychoactive Drugs from Biofluids
Authors: Stelmaszczyk Paweł , Iwan Mateusz , Pawcenis Dominika , Wietecha-Posłuszny Renata
Published: February 2024

The intensive development of extraction methods based on μ-SPE extraction contributes to the increased interest in the synthesis of new sorption materials. This work presents the characterization of polystyrene fibers and polystyrene fibers blended with ZrO2 particles or polyaniline obtained by electrospinning and their use in the extraction of selected psychoactive drugs from biological samples. The characteristic of produced fibers is made by performing SEM images, measuring average fiber diameter, and examining their sorption abilities. Among the fibers based on pure polystyrene, tested in the first stage, the best sorption properties are demonstrated for the fibers obtained from a polystyrene solution in DMF with a concentration of 17.5 wt%. In the next stage, this material was modified with synthesized ZrO2 particles and polyaniline. Among the tested materials, the sorbent based on polystyrene with polyaniline shows the best sorption properties of the tested substances. The use of this material in the μ-SPE in a needle enables the extraction of selected compounds from aqueous and biological samples such as urine and human plasma.
Evaluation of Porous (Poly(lactide-co-glycolide)-co-(ε-caprolactone)) Polyurethane for Use in Orthopedic Scaffolds
Authors: Savin Gaëlle , Sastourne-Array Océane , Caillol Sylvain , Bethry Audrey , Assor Michel , David Ghislain , Nottelet Benjamin
Published: February 2024

To develop an orthopedic scaffold that could overcome the limitations of implants used in clinics, we designed poly(ester-urethane) foams and compared their properties with those of a commercial gold standard. A degradable poly(ester-urethane) was synthetized by polyaddition between a diisocyanate poly(ε-caprolactone) prepolymer (PCL di-NCO, Mn = 2400 g·mol−1) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) diol (PLGA, Mn = 2200 g·mol−1) acting as a chain extender. The resulting high-molecular-weight poly(ester-urethane) (PEU, Mn = 87,000 g·mol−1) was obtained and thoroughly characterized by NMR, FTIR and SEC-MALS. The porous scaffolds were then processed using the solvent casting (SC)/particle leaching (PL) method with different NaCl crystal concentrations. The morphology, pore size and porosity of the foams were evaluated using SEM, showing interconnected pores with a uniform size of around 150 µm. The mechanical properties of the scaffolds are close to those of the human meniscus (Ey = 0.5~1 MPa). Their degradation under accelerated conditions confirms that incorporating PLGA into the scaffolds greatly accelerates their degradation rate compared to the gold-standard implant. Finally, a cytotoxicity study confirmed the absence of the cytotoxicity of the PEU, with a 90% viability of the L929 cells. These results suggest that degradable porous PLGA/PCL poly(ester-urethane) has potential in the development of meniscal implants.
Establishment and Validation of a Transdermal Drug Delivery System for the Anti-Depressant Drug Citalopram Hydrobromide
Authors: Sun Yi-yang , Ni Ya-jing , Wang Run-jia , Qin Zi-cheng , Liu Zhao , Xiao Li-hui , Liu Yan-qiang
Published: February 2024

To enhance the bioavailability and antihypertensive effect of the anti-depressant drug citalopram hydrobromide (CTH) we developed a sustained-release transdermal delivery system containing CTH. A transdermal diffusion meter was first used to determine the optimal formulation of the CTH transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS). Then, based on the determined formulation, a sustained-release patch was prepared; its physical characteristics, including quality, stickiness, and appearance, were evaluated, and its pharmacokinetics and irritation to the skin were evaluated by applying it to rabbits and rats. The optimal formulation of the CTH TDDS was 49.2% hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose K100M, 32.8% polyvinylpyrrolidone K30, 16% oleic acid-azone, and 2% polyacrylic acid resin II. The system continuously released an effective dose of CTH for 24 h and significantly enhanced its bioavailability, with a higher area under the curve, good stability, and no skin irritation. The developed CTH TDDS possessed a sustained-release effect and good characteristics and pharmacokinetics; therefore, it has the potential for clinical application as an antidepressant.
Surface Basicity and Hydrophilic Character of Coal Ash-Derived Zeolite NaP1 Modified by Fatty Acids
Authors: Beltrão-Nunes Ana-Paola , Pires Marçal , Roy René , Azzouz Abdelkrim
Published: February 2024

Zeolite NaP1 was found to display the highest affinity for CO2 in preliminary modifications of coal fly ash-derived zeolites (4A, Y, NaP1 and X) by four amines (1,3-diaminopropane, N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine, Tris(2-aminoethyl)amine and ethylenediamine). In the second step, different fatty acid loaded NaP1 samples were prepared using palmitic, oleic and lauric acids. CO2 and H2O thermal programmed desorption (TPD) revealed changes in intrinsic basicity and hydrophilic character, expressed in terms of CO2 and H2O retention capacity (CRC and WRC, respectively). Infrared spectroscopy (IR), N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms and scanning electron microscopy allowed for correlating these changes with the type of interactions between the incorporated species and the zeolite surface. The highest CRC values and the lowest CO2 desorption temperatures were registered for NaP1 with the optimum content in palmitic acid (PA) and were explained in terms of the shading effect of surface acidity by the rise of basic Na+-palmitate salt upon cation exchange. The amine/fatty acid combination was found to paradoxically mitigate this beneficial effect of PA incorporation. These results are of great interest because they demonstrate that fatty acid incorporation is an interesting strategy for reversible CO2 capture.
Preparation of Oily Sludge-Derived Activated Carbon and Its Adsorption Performance for Tetracycline Hydrochloride
Authors: Long Jie , He Piwen , Przystupa Krzysztof , Wang Yudie , Kochan Orest
Published: February 2024

Oily sludge-derived activated carbon was prepared using the potassium hydroxide (KOH) activation method using oily sludge as a raw material, and one-factor experiments determined the best conditions for preparing activated carbon. The activated carbon’s morphological structure and surface chemical properties were analyzed by scanning different characterization tools, and the adsorption behavior of tetracycline hydrochloride was investigated. The results showed that the optimum conditions for preparing oily sludge-derived activated carbon were an activation temperature of 400 °C, activation time of 30 min, activator concentration of 1 mol/L, and impregnation ratio of 2 mL/g. After activation, the activated carbon had more pores and a more orderly crystal structure arrangement, the specific surface area was 2.07 times higher than that before activation, and the surface was rich in functional groups such as -HO, -C-O, -C=C, and -C-H, which increased the active sites of activated carbon. Physicochemical effects dominated the adsorption process. It belonged to the spontaneous heat absorption process under the quasi-secondary kinetic and Langmuir isothermal models. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity of KOH-activated carbon was 205.1 mg·g−1.
Discovery of the Active Compounds of the Ethyl Acetate Extract Site of Ardisia japonica (Thunb.) Blume for the Treatment of Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Sun Shuding , Liu Xuefang , Zhao Di , Zheng Lishi , Han Xiaoxiao , Tian Yange , Feng Suxiang
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to identify and evaluate the pharmacodynamic constituents of Ardisiae Japonicae Herba (AJH) for the treatment of acute lung injury (ALI). To fully analyze the chemical contents of various extraction solvents (petroleum ether site (PE), ethyl acetate site (EA), n-butanol site (NB), and water site (WS)) of AJH, the UPLC–Orbitrap Fusion–MS technique was employed. Subsequently, the anti-inflammatory properties of the four extracted components of AJH were assessed using the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced MH-S cellular inflammation model. The parts that exhibited anti-inflammatory activity were identified. Additionally, a technique was developed to measure the levels of specific chemical constituents in the anti-inflammatory components of AJH. The correlation between the “anti-inflammatory activity” and the constituents was analyzed, enabling the identification of a group of pharmacodynamic components with anti-inflammatory properties. ALI model rats were created using the tracheal drip LPS technique. The pharmacodynamic indices were evaluated for the anti-inflammatory active portions of AJH. The research revealed that the PE, EA, NB, and WS extracts of AJH included 215, 289, 128, and 69 unique chemical components, respectively. Additionally, 528 chemical components were discovered after removing duplicate values from the data. The EA exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity in the cellular assay. A further analysis was conducted to determine the correlation between anti-inflammatory activity and components. Seventeen components, such as caryophyllene oxide, bergenin, and gallic acid, were identified as potential pharmacodynamic components with anti-inflammatory activity. The pharmacodynamic findings demonstrated that the intermediate and high doses of the EA extract from AJH exhibited a more pronounced effect in enhancing lung function, blood counts, and lung histology in a way that depended on the dosage. To summarize, when considering the findings from the previous study on the chemical properties of AJH, it was determined that the EA contained a group of 13 constituents that primarily contributed to its pharmacodynamic effects against ALI. The constituents include bergenin, quercetin, epigallocatechingallate, and others.
Research Progress on Atomically Dispersed Fe-N-C Catalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Lian Yuebin , Xu Jinnan , Zhou Wangkai , Lin Yao , Bai Jirong
Published: February 2024

The efficiency and performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are primarily influenced by ORR electrocatalysts. In recent years, atomically dispersed metal–nitrogen–carbon (M-N-C) catalysts have gained significant attention due to their high active center density, high atomic utilization, and high activity. These catalysts are now considered the preferred alternative to traditional noble metal electrocatalysts. The unique properties of M-N-C catalysts are anticipated to enhance the energy conversion efficiency and lower the manufacturing cost of the entire system, thereby facilitating the commercialization and widespread application of fuel cell technology. This article initially delves into the origin of performance and degradation mechanisms of Fe-N-C catalysts from both experimental and theoretical perspectives. Building on this foundation, the focus shifts to strategies aimed at enhancing the activity and durability of atomically dispersed Fe-N-C catalysts. These strategies encompass the use of bimetallic atoms, atomic clusters, heteroatoms (B, S, and P), and morphology regulation to optimize catalytic active sites. This article concludes by detailing the current challenges and future prospects of atomically dispersed Fe-N-C catalysts.
Effect of Polyphenol Supplementation on Memory Functioning in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Farag Sara , Tsang Catherine , Al-Dujaili Emad A. S. , Murphy Philip N.
Published: February 2024

Negative health consequences of obesity include impaired neuronal functioning and cell death, thus bringing the risk of impaired cognitive functioning. Antioxidant properties of polyphenols offer a possible intervention for overweight people, but evidence for their effectiveness in supporting cognitive functioning is mixed. This review examined evidence from randomized controlled trials concerning the effect of polyphenols on tasks requiring either immediate or delayed retrieval of learned information, respectively, thus controlling for differences in cognitive processes and related neural substrates supporting respective task demands. Searches of the PubMed/Medline, PsycInfo, and Scopus databases identified 24 relevant primary studies with N = 2336 participants having a BMI ≥ 25.0 kg/m2. The participants’ mean age for the 24 studies exceeded 60 years. Respective meta-analyses produced a significant summary effect for immediate retrieval but not for delayed retrieval. The present findings support a potential positive effect of chronic supplementation with polyphenols, most notably flavonoids, on immediate retrieval in participants aged over 60 years with obesity being a risk factor for cognitive impairment. We recommend further investigation of this potential positive effect in participants with such risk factors. Future research on all populations should report the phenolic content of the supplementation administered and be specific regarding the cognitive processes tested.
Calorie Restriction and Time-Restricted Feeding: Effective Interventions in Overweight or Obese Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy Treatment with Curative Intent for Cancer
Authors: Vega Carmen , Barnafi Esteban , Sánchez César , Acevedo Francisco , Walbaum Benjamin , Parada Alejandra , Rivas Nicolás , Merino Tomás
Published: February 2024

This study assesses the feasibility of calorie restriction (CR) and time-restricted feeding (TRF) in overweight and obese cancer patients who realized little to no physical activity undergoing curative radiotherapy, structured as a prospective, interventional, non-randomized open-label clinical trial. Of the 27 participants initially enrolled, 21 patients with breast cancer were selected for analysis. The participants self-selected into two dietary interventions: TRF, comprising a sugar and saturated fat-free diet calibrated to individual energy needs consumed within an 8 h eating window followed by a 16 h fast, or CR, involving a 25% reduction in total caloric intake from energy expenditure distributed across 4 meals and 1 snack with 55% carbohydrates, 15% protein, and 30% fats, excluding sugars and saturated fats. The primary goal was to evaluate the feasibility of these diets in the specific patient group. The results indicate that both interventions are effective and statistically significant for weight loss and reducing one’s waist circumference, with TRF showing a potentially stronger impact and better adherence. Changes in the LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose and insulin were not statistically significant.
Are Caregivers’ Feeding Competence and Autonomy Associated with Healthier Restaurant Food Purchases for Their Child at Fast Food or Counter Service Restaurants? A Cross-Sectional Study in a Diverse Sample of U.S. Caregivers
Authors: Chacón Violeta , Folta Sara C. , Hennessy Erin , Leak Tashara M. , Macfarlane Hannah , Roberto Christina A. , Tovar Alison , Wilson Norbert , Economos Christina D.
Published: February 2024

This study examined the cross-sectional relationship between caregivers’ perceived competence and autonomy (as defined by the Self-Determination Theory) and their fast food or counter service restaurant food purchases (side dishes, beverage, and dessert) for their child. A U.S. national convenience sample of caregivers with at least one 3–12-year-old child completed an online survey with questions adapted from the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory that measured perceived competence and autonomy for feeding fruits and vegetables and limiting sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and desserts. The survey included four questions asking about their fast food or counter service restaurant food purchases (side dish, beverage, and dessert). We applied logistic and multinomial logistic regression models to examine the associations between competence or autonomy and restaurant orders. Competence and autonomy were associated with ordering fruits and vegetables as side dishes (OR [95% CI], 1.14 [1.06, 1.24] and 1.09 [1.03, 1.14], respectively). However, higher competence was also associated with ordering desserts at restaurants and higher autonomy was associated with lower odds of ordering water. These findings will inform interventions and programs that aim to support caregivers’ psychological needs, like competence and autonomy, to promote supportive environments and healthier restaurant purchases for their children.
Dynamics of the Gut Microbiota and Faecal and Serum Metabolomes during Pregnancy—A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Pan Ruili , Guo Min , Chen Ying , Lin Guopeng , Tian Peijun , Wang Linlin , Zhao Jianxin , Chen Wei , Wang Gang
Published: February 2024

Normal pregnancy involves numerous physiological changes, including changes in hormone levels, immune responses, and metabolism. Although several studies have shown that the gut microbiota may have an important role in the progression of pregnancy, these findings have been inconsistent, and the relationship between the gut microbiota and metabolites that change dynamically during and after pregnancy remains to be clarified. In this longitudinal study, we comprehensively profiled the temporal dynamics of the gut microbiota, Bifidobacterium communities, and serum and faecal metabolomes of 31 women during their pregnancies and postpartum periods. The microbial composition changed as gestation progressed, with the pregnancy and postpartum periods exhibiting distinct bacterial community characteristics, including significant alterations in the genera of the Lachnospiraceae or Ruminococcaceae families, especially the Lachnospiraceae FCS020 group and Ruminococcaceae UCG-003. Metabolic dynamics, characterised by changes in nutrients important for fetal growth (e.g., docosatrienoic acid), anti-inflammatory metabolites (e.g., trans-3-indoleacrylic acid), and steroid hormones (e.g., progesterone), were observed in both serum and faecal samples during pregnancy. Moreover, a complex correlation was identified between the pregnancy-related microbiota and metabolites, with Ruminococcus1 and Ruminococcaceae UCG-013 making important contributions to changes in faecal and serum metabolites, respectively. Overall, a highly coordinated microbiota–metabolite regulatory network may underlie the pregnancy process. These findings provide a foundation for enhancing our understanding of the molecular processes occurring during the progression of pregnancy, thereby contributing to nutrition and health management during this period.
Associations between Shokuiku during School Years, Well-Balanced Diets, and Eating and Lifestyle Behaviours in Japanese Females Enrolled in a University Registered Dietitian Course
Authors: Kibayashi Etsuko , Nakade Makiko
Published: February 2024

This study comprehensively examined the associations between shokuiku (food and nutrition education) during school years, current well-balanced diets, and current eating and lifestyle behaviours of Japanese female university students. A hypothetical model was developed using factors potentially associated with well-balanced diets. A simultaneous multipopulational analysis was performed according to the living arrangements of 148 female Japanese students (48.6% living alone) from a registered dietitian course. The analysis showed acceptable goodness of fit and a significant positive path from shokuiku during school years (living alone: standardised estimate 0.29, p = 0.004; with family: 0.32, p = 0.006) and a negative path from eating out frequency (−0.19, p = 0.039; −0.24, p = 0.017) towards a well-balanced diet. A significant negative path was identified from late bedtimes (−0.45, p < 0.001) and home meal replacement use frequency (−0.24, p = 0.010) in those living alone and from late-night snacking frequency (−0.27, p = 0.007) in those living with family. Well-balanced diets in female university students may be positively associated with shokuiku during school years and limited by a late bedtime, eating out, and home meal replacement use in those living alone, and by late-night snacking and eating out in those living with family.
Teaching of Forensic Dentistry in Khartoum, Sudan
Authors: Hag Ali Sarah , Franco Ademir , Nuzzolese Emilio , Mânica Scheila
Published: February 2024

Background: Dental professionals assist with legal and criminal matters through the practice of forensic dentistry which has evolved over the past century and is now a crucial component of undergraduate dental education in many nations. The need for formal training in the subject and its inclusion in dental curricula were acknowledged and addressed in the 1960s and 1970s. Aims: This study aimed to investigate the teaching of forensic dentistry in dental universities of Khartoum, Sudan, and to propose certain topics and teaching criteria to be standardized in forensic dentistry teaching in Sudan. Materials and methods: An observational, descriptive study was conducted, involving all undergraduate dental institutions in Khartoum, Sudan. Institutional websites were searched using the Google search engine to obtain the dental program curricula in English. The curricula were then analyzed to identify the presence of forensic odontology/dentistry teaching. Results: Of the 19 universities included in the study, five (26.3%) teach forensic dentistry in their undergraduate curricula, whereas 12 (63.1%) do not. Two universities (10.6%) indicated the presence of forensic dentistry teaching in their curricula but did not provide actual instruction. The teaching of forensic dentistry mainly occurred during the second, third, and fourth years of the dental program. Three universities considered it an independent subject, while two universities incorporated it into oral and maxillofacial pathology. Four universities provided lectures only, while one university combined lectures and practical sessions. Qualified forensic dentists taught the subject in four universities, while one university had general dentists as instructors. The main topics delivered are: (1) introduction to forensics, (2) human identification, (3) dental age estimation, (4) interpretation of bitemarks, (5) DNA in forensics, and (6) child abuse. Conclusion: Forensic dentistry training is currently undervalued in Sudan due to various limitations. It is recommended that all dental schools in Sudan offer opportunities for students to learn and become acquainted with forensic dentistry as part of their dental programs. The Sudanese Dental Council should establish formal coordination with academic institutions and experienced forensic dentists to ensure the quality and relevance of the proposed modular course within the educational system. Finally, additional topics including dental record-keeping and dental malpractice are suggested for inclusion in the current modules.
A Review of Current and Pipeline Drugs for Treatment of Melanoma
Authors: Natarelli Nicole , Aleman Sarah J. , Mark Isabella M. , Tran Jasmine T. , Kwak Sean , Botto Elizabeth , Aflatooni Shaliz , Diaz Michael J. , Lipner Shari R.
Published: February 2024

Malignant melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, systemic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Combining these modalities often yields better responses. Surgery is suitable for localized cases, sometimes involving lymph node dissection and biopsy, to assess the spread of the disease. Radiation therapy may be sometimes used as a standalone treatment or following surgical excision. Systemic chemotherapy, while having low response rates, is utilized as part of combination treatments or when other methods fail. The development of resistance to systemic chemotherapies and associated side effects have prompted further research and clinical trials for novel approaches. In the case of advanced-stage melanoma, a comprehensive approach may be necessary, incorporating targeted therapies and immunotherapies that demonstrate significant antitumor activity. Targeted therapies, including inhibitors targeting BRAF, MEK, c-KIT, and NRAS, are designed to block the specific molecules responsible for tumor growth. These therapies show promise, particularly in patients with corresponding mutations. Combination therapy, including BRAF and MEK inhibitors, has been evidenced to improve progression-free survival; however, concerns about resistance and cutaneous toxicities highlight the need for close monitoring. Immunotherapies, leveraging tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and CAR T cells, enhance immune responses. Lifileucel, an FDA-approved tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte therapy, has demonstrated improved response rates in advanced-stage melanoma. Ongoing trials continue to explore the efficacy of CAR T-cell therapy for advanced melanoma. Checkpoint inhibitors targeting CTLA-4 and PD-1 have enhanced outcomes. Emerging IL-2 therapies boost dendritic cells, enhancing anticancer immunity. Oncolytic virus therapy, approved for advanced melanoma, augments treatment efficacy in combination approaches. While immunotherapy has significantly advanced melanoma treatment, its success varies, prompting research into new drugs and factors influencing outcomes. This review provides insights into current melanoma treatments and recent therapeutic advances.
Multicenter Experience with Good Manufacturing Practice Production of [11C]PiB for Amyloid Positron Emission Tomography Imaging
Authors: Andersen Anders Bruhn Arndal , Lehel Szabolcs , Grove Ebbe Klit , Langkjaer Niels , Fuglø Dan , Huynh Tri Hien Viet
Published: February 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with increasing global prevalence and accounts for over half of all dementia cases. Early diagnosis is paramount for not only the management of the disease, but also for the development of new AD treatments. The current golden standard for diagnosis is performed by positron emission tomography (PET) scans with the tracer [11C]Pittsburg Compound B ([11C]PiB), which targets amyloid beta protein (Aβ) that builds up as plaques in the brain of AD patients. The increasing demand for AD diagnostics is in turn expected to drive an increase in [11C]PiB-PET scans and the setup of new [11C]PiB production lines at PET centers globally. Here, we present the [11C]PiB production setups, experiences, and use from four Danish PET facilities and discuss the challenges and potential pitfalls of [11C]PiB production. We report on the [11C]PiB production performed with the 6-OH-BTA-0 precursor dissolved in either dry acetone or 2-butanone and by using either [11C]CO2 or [11C]CH4 as 11C- precursors on three different commercial synthesis modules: TracerLab FX C Pro, ScanSys, or TracerMaker. It was found that the [11C]CO2 method gives the highest radioactive yield (1.5 to 3.2 GBq vs. 0.8 ± 0.3 GBq), while the highest molar activity (98.0 ± 61.4 GBq/μmol vs. 21.2 to 95.6 GBq/μmol) was achieved using [11C]CH4. [11C]PiB production with [11C]CO2 on a TracerLab FX C Pro offered the most desirable results, with the highest yield of 3.17 ± 1.20 GBq and good molar activity of 95.6 ± 44.2 GBq/μmol. Moreover, all reported methods produced [11C]PiB in quantities suitable for clinical applications, thus providing a foundation for other PET facilities seeking to establish their own [11C]PiB production.
How Can Deep Eutectic Systems Promote Greener Processes in Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Discovery?
Authors: Domingues Luis , Duarte Ana Rita C. , Jesus Ana Rita
Published: February 2024

Chemists in the medicinal chemistry field are constantly searching for alternatives towards more sustainable and eco-friendly processes for the design and synthesis of drug candidates. The pharmaceutical industry is one of the most polluting industries, having a high E-factor, which is driving the adoption of more sustainable processes not only for new drug candidates, but also in the production of well-established active pharmaceutical ingredients. Deep eutectic systems (DESs) have emerged as a greener alternative to ionic liquids, and their potential to substitute traditional organic solvents in drug discovery has raised interest among scientists. With the use of DESs as alternative solvents, the processes become more attractive in terms of eco-friendliness and recyclability. Furthermore, they might be more effective through making the process simpler, faster, and with maximum efficiency. This review will be focused on the role and application of deep eutectic systems in drug discovery, using biocatalytic processes and traditional organic chemical reactions, as new environmentally benign alternative solvents. Furthermore, herein we also show that DESs, if used in the pharmaceutical industry, may have a significant effect on lowering production costs and decreasing the impact of this industry on the quality of the environment.
Sample Size Requirements of a Pharmaceutical Material Library: A Case in Predicting Direct Compression Tablet Tensile Strength by Latent Variable Modeling
Authors: Cao Junjie , Shen Haoran , Zhao Shuying , Ma Xiao , Chen Liping , Dai Shengyun , Xu Bing , Qiao Yanjiang
Published: February 2024

The material library is an emerging, new data-driven approach for developing pharmaceutical process models. How many materials or samples should be involved in a particular application scenario is unclear, and the impact of sample size on process modeling is worth discussing. In this work, the direct compression process was taken as the research object, and the effects of different sample sizes of material libraries on partial least squares (PLS) modeling in the prediction of tablet tensile strength were investigated. A primary material library comprising 45 materials was built. Then, material subsets containing 5 × i (i = 1, 2, 3, …, 8) materials were sampled from the primary material library. Each subset underwent sampling 1000 times to analyze variations in model fitting performance. Both hierarchical sampling and random sampling were employed and compared, with hierarchical sampling implemented with the help of the tabletability classification index d. For each subset, modeling data were organized, incorporating 18 physical properties and tableting pressure as the independent variables and tablet tensile strength as the dependent variable. A series of chemometric indicators was used to assess model performance and find important materials for model training. It was found that the minimum R2 and RMSE values reached their maximum, and the corresponding values were kept almost unchanged when the sample sizes varied from 20 to 45. When the sample size was smaller than 15, the hierarchical sampling method was more reliable in avoiding low-quality few-shot PLS models than the random sampling method. Two important materials were identified as useful for building an initial material library. Overall, this work demonstrated that as the number of materials increased, the model’s reliability improved. It also highlighted the potential for effective few-shot modeling on a small material library by controlling its information richness.
Clinical Utility and Implementation of Pharmacogenomics for the Personalisation of Antipsychotic Treatments
Authors: Hernandez Marta , Cullell Natalia , Cendros Marc , Serra-Llovich Alexandre , Arranz Maria J.
Published: February 2024

Decades of pharmacogenetic research have revealed genetic biomarkers of clinical response to antipsychotics. Genetic variants in antipsychotic targets, dopamine and serotonin receptors in particular, and in metabolic enzymes have been associated with the efficacy and toxicity of antipsychotic treatments. However, genetic prediction of antipsychotic response based on these biomarkers is far from accurate. Despite the clinical validity of these findings, the clinical utility remains unclear. Nevertheless, genetic information on CYP metabolic enzymes responsible for the biotransformation of most commercially available antipsychotics has proven to be effective for the personalisation of clinical dosing, resulting in a reduction of induced side effects and in an increase in efficacy. However, pharmacogenetic information is rarely used in psychiatric settings as a prescription aid. Lack of studies on cost-effectiveness, absence of clinical guidelines based on pharmacogenetic biomarkers for several commonly used antipsychotics, the cost of genetic testing and the delay in results delivery hamper the implementation of pharmacogenetic interventions in clinical settings. This narrative review will comment on the existing pharmacogenetic information, the clinical utility of pharmacogenetic findings, and their current and future implementations.
Saturated Fatty Acid Emulsions Open the Blood–Brain Barrier and Promote Drug Delivery in Rat Brains
Authors: Sung Kyoung Su , Cho Won Ho , Cha Seung Heon , Kim Yong-Woo , Choi Seon Hee , Kim Hak Jin , Yun Mi Sook
Published: February 2024

We performed this study to evaluate whether saturated fatty acid (SFA) emulsions affect the BBB and determine the duration of BBB opening, thereby promoting drug delivery to the brain. Butyric, valeric, caproic, enanthic, and caprylic acid emulsions were infused into the carotid artery of the rat model. We evaluated the BBB opening and drug delivery over time. The trypan blue and doxorubicin delivery studies were repeated from 30 min to 6 h. In the 1 h rats in each group, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was performed to morphologically evaluate tight junctions, and the delivery of temozolomide was assessed by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The ipsilateral hemisphere was positive for trypan blue staining in all the five SFA emulsion groups. In the valeric, enanthic, and caprylic acid emulsion groups, RGB ratios were significantly higher at 30 min and decreased thereafter. Doxorubicin delivery increased in all emulsion groups at all time points. Tight junctions were observed to be open in all groups. TMZ delivery was significantly higher in the ipsilateral hemisphere. In conclusion, intra-arterially infused SFA emulsions opened the BBB and promoted drug delivery within 30 min, which decreased thereafter. Therefore, SFA emulsions may aid BBB research and promote drug delivery to the brain.
Evaluation of MAA Analogues as Potential Candidates to Increase Photostability in Sunscreen Formulations
Authors: Soilán Jacobo , López-Cóndor Leonardo , Peñín Beatriz , Aguilera José , de Gálvez María Victoria , Sampedro Diego , Losantos Raúl
Published: February 2024

Avobenzone is one of the most widely used sunscreens in skin care formulations, but suffers from some drawbacks, including photo instability. To mitigate this critical issue, the use of octocrylene as a stabilizer is a common approach in these products. However, octocrylene has been recently demonstrated to show potential phototoxicity. The aim of this work is to analyze the performance of a series of mycosporine-like amino acid (MAA)-inspired compounds to act as avobenzone stabilizers as an alternative to octocrylene. Different avobenzone/MAA analogue combinations included in galenic formulations were followed under increasing doses of solar-simulated UV radiation. Some of the synthetic MAA analogues analyzed were able to increase by up to two times the UV dose required for 50% of avobenzone photobleaching. We propose some of these MAA analogues as new candidates to act as avobenzone-stabilizing compounds in addition to their UV absorbance and antioxidant properties, together with a facile synthesis.
Elasto-Static Analysis of Composite Restorations in a Molar Tooth: A Meshless Approach
Authors: Mehri Sofiani Farid , Farahani Behzad V. , Belinha Jorge
Published: February 2024

Dental caries and dental restorations possess a long history and over the years, many materials and methods have been invented. In recent decades, modern techniques and materials have brought complexity to this issue, which has created the necessity to investigate more and more to achieve durability, consistency, proper mechanical properties, efficiency, beauty, good colour, and reduced costs and time. Combined with the recent advances in the medical field, mechanical engineering plays a significant role in this topic. This work aims at studying the elasto-static response of a human molar tooth as a case study, respecting the integral property of the tooth and different composite materials of the dental restoration. The structural integrity of the case study will be assessed through advanced numerical modelling resorting to meshless methods within the stress analysis on the molar tooth under different loading conditions. In this regard, bruxism is considered as being one of the most important cases that cause damage and fracture in a human tooth. The obtained meshless methods results are compared to the finite element method (FEM) solution. The advantages and disadvantages of the analysed materials are identified, which could be used by the producers of the studied materials to improve their quality. On the other hand, a computational framework, as the one presented here, would assist the clinical practice and treatment decision (in accordance with each patient’s characteristics).
Study of Synthesis of Dual-Curing Thermoplastic Polyurethane Hot-Melt Adhesive and Optimization by Using Gray Relational Analysis to Apply in Fabric Industry to Solve Seamless Bonding Issues
Authors: Lin Sheng-Yu , Ahmad Naveed , Jeffrey Kuo Chung-Feng
Published: February 2024

People wear clothes for warmth, survival and necessity in modern life, but in the modern era, eco-friendliness, shortened production times, design and intelligence also matter. To determine the relationship between data series and verify the proximity of each data series, a gray relational analysis, or GRA, is applied to textiles, where seamless bonding technology enhances the bond between components. In this study, a polyurethane prepolymer, 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (2-HEA) as an end-capping agent and n-octyl acrylate (ODA) as a photoinitiator were used to synthesize a dual-curing polyurethane hot-melt adhesive. Taguchi quality engineering and a gray relational analysis were used to discuss the influence of different mole ratios of NCO:OH and the effect of the molar ratio of the addition of octyl decyl acrylate on the mechanical strength. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results showed the termination of the prepolymer’s polymerization reaction and the C=O peak intensity at 1730 cm−1, indicating efficient bonding to the main chain. Advanced Polymer Chromatography (APC) was used to investigate the high-molecular-weight (20,000–30,000) polyurethane polymer bonded with octyl decyl acrylate to achieve a photothermosetting effect. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results showed that the thermal decomposition temperature of the polyurethane hot-melt adhesive also increased, and they showed the highest pyrolysis temperature (349.89 °C) for the polyhydric alcohols. Furthermore, high peel strength (1.68 kg/cm) and shear strength (34.94 kg/cm2) values were detected with the dual-cure photothermosetting polyurethane hot-melt adhesive. The signal-to-noise ratio was also used to generate the gray relational degree. It was observed that the best parameter ratio of NCO:OH was 4:1 with five moles of monomer. The Taguchi quality engineering method was used to find the parameters of single-quality optimization, and then the gray relation calculation was used to obtain the parameter combination of multi-quality optimization for thermosetting the polyurethane hot-melt adhesive. The study aims to meet the requirements of seamless bonding in textile factories and optimize experimental parameter design by setting target values that can effectively increase production speed and reduce processing time and costs as well.