bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Spinal Alignment and Abdominal Circumference with Sarcopenia Status and Fall Risk in Patients with Osteoporosis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Nagai Takashi , Miyagami Makoto , Okano Ichiro , Nakamura Shota , Okazaki Yuichiro , Sakamoto Keizo , Kasai Fumihito , Kudo Yoshifumi , Kawate Nobuyuki
Published: May 2023

Since vertebral kyphosis and abdominal circumference are thought to influence sarcopenia and fall risk in osteoporosis, we evaluated sarcopenia and fall risk in patients with different measurements of abdominal circumference and sagittal longitudinal axis (SVA). In this post hoc study, 227 patients aged 65 years or more who visited an outpatient osteoporosis clinic were included in the analysis. Sarcopenia was determined from lean body mass, grip strength, and walking speed by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry; SVA (median 40 mm) and abdominal circumference (median 80 cm) were compared between the four groups, each divided into two groups. Nutritional management, falls, and fall anxiety scores were also examined. The incidence of sarcopenia was significantly increased in those with abdominal circumference < 80 cm in both the SVA < 40 mm and SVA ≥ 40 mm groups (p < 0.05). Nonetheless, the fall scores of those with SVA < 40 mm were lower than those of individuals with SVA ≥ 40 mm (p < 0.01). Based on the results of this study, SVA and abdominal circumference values may predict the risk of sarcopenia and falls. More research is needed before our results can be translated into clinical practice.
Basophil Activation Test in the Diagnosis of Anisakis Allergy: An Observational Study from an Area of High Seafood Consumption in Italy
Authors: Brusca Ignazio , Barrale Maria , Zarcone Maurizio , Fruscione Santo , Onida Rosa , De Bella Daniele Domenico , Alba Davide , Belluzzo Miriam , Uasuf Carina Gabriela , Cammilleri Gaetano , Costa Antonella , Ferrantelli Vincenzo , Savatteri Alessandra , Cannizzaro Emanuele , Calamusa Giuseppe , Lacca Guido , Maida Carmelo Massimo , Pipitone Salvatore , D’Atria Alida , Palomba Marialetizia , Costantino Claudio , Mattiucci Simonetta , Mazzucco Walter
Published: May 2023

The rising popularity of undercooked or raw seafood containing larvae of the Anisakis parasite has led to issues of public health concern due to allergic manifestations. We conducted an observational study on the use of an innovative Anisakis allergy diagnostic algorithm in a convenience sample of 53 allergic outpatients recruited in Western Sicily, between April 2021 and March 2022. We included individuals with an anamnesis suggestive of IgE sensitization to Anisakis reporting clinical manifestation in the last month due to allergic reactions after eating fresh fish, or in subjects at high exposure risk with sea products while abstaining from fish ingestion, excluding those with documented fish sensitization. Outpatients were tested via Skin Prick Test, IgE-specific dosage and Basophil Activation Test (BAT). Twenty-six outpatients were diagnosed with Anisakis, while 27 with Chronic Urticaria (CU). We found a seven-fold excess risk for Anisakis (p4) positivity in the Anisakis allergic outpatients, as compared to the CU ones. BAT showed the best diagnostic accuracy (92.45%) and specificity (100%), while specific IgE to Ascaris (p1) documented the best sensitivity (92.31%) but a very low specificity (37.04%). In conclusion, our findings may represent a potentially useful contribution to the future development of updated clinical guidelines.
Local Delivery Strategies for Peptides and Proteins into the CNS: Status Quo, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Yue Weizhou , Shen Jie
Published: May 2023

Over the past decades, peptides and proteins have been increasingly important in the treatment of various human diseases and conditions owing to their specificity, potency, and minimized off-target toxicity. However, the existence of the practically impermeable blood brain barrier (BBB) limits the entry of macromolecular therapeutics into the central nervous systems (CNS). Consequently, clinical translation of peptide/protein therapeutics for the treatment of CNS diseases has been limited. Over the past decades, developing effective delivery strategies for peptides and proteins has gained extensive attention, in particular with localized delivery strategies, due to the fact that they are capable of circumventing the physiological barrier to directly introduce macromolecular therapeutics into the CNS to improve therapeutic effects and reduce systemic side effects. Here, we discuss various local administration and formulation strategies that have shown successes in the treatment of CNS diseases using peptide/protein therapeutics. Lastly, we discuss challenges and future perspectives of these approaches.
NMDA Receptor Glycine Binding Site Modulators for Prevention and Treatment of Ketamine Use Disorder
Authors: Hsiao Yu-Chin , Lee Mei-Yi , Chan Ming-Huan , Chen Hwei-Hsien
Published: May 2023

Ketamine offers a fast-acting approach to relieving treatment-resistant depression, but its abuse potential is an issue of concern. As ketamine is a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) ion channel blocker, modulation of NMDAR might be an effective strategy to counteract the abuse liability of ketamine and even to treat ketamine use disorder. This study evaluated whether NMDAR modulators that act on glycine binding sites can decrease motivation to obtain ketamine and reduce reinstatement to ketamine-seeking behavior. Two NMDAR modulators, D-serine and sarcosine were examined. Male Sprague–Dawley rats underwent training to acquire the ability to self-administer ketamine. The motivation to self-administer ketamine or sucrose pellets was examined under a progressive ratio (PR) schedule. The reinstatement of ketamine-seeking and sucrose pellet-seeking behaviors were assessed after extinction. The results showed that both D-serine and sarcosine significantly decreased the breakpoints for ketamine and prevented reinstatement of ketamine seeking. However, these modulators did not alter motivated behavior for sucrose pellets, the ability of the cue and sucrose pellets to reinstate sucrose-seeking behavior or spontaneous locomotor activity. These findings indicate that two NMDAR modulators can specifically reduce the measures of motivation and relapse for ketamine in rats, suggesting that targeting the glycine binding site of the NMDAR is a promising approach for preventing and treating ketamine use disorder.
Extra-Gonadal and Non-Canonical Effects of FSH in Males
Authors: Spaziani Matteo , Carlomagno Francesco , Tenuta Marta , Sesti Franz , Angelini Francesco , Bonaventura Ilaria , Ferrari Davide , Tarantino Chiara , Fiore Marco , Petrella Carla , Tarani Luigi , Gianfrilli Daniele , Pozza Carlotta
Published: May 2023

Recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is commonly used for the treatment of female infertility and is increasingly being used in males as well, as recommended by notable guidelines. FSH is composed of an α subunit, shared with other hormones, and a β subunit, which confers specificity of biological action by interacting with its surface receptor (FSHR), predominantly located in granulosa and Sertoli cells. However, FSHRs also exist in extra-gonadal tissues, indicating potential effects beyond male fertility. Emerging evidence suggests that FSH may have extra-gonadal effects, including on bone metabolism, where it appears to stimulate bone resorption by binding to specific receptors on osteoclasts. Additionally, higher FSH levels have been associated with worse metabolic and cardiovascular outcomes, suggesting a possible impact on the cardiovascular system. FSH has also been implicated in immune response modulation, as FSHRs are expressed on immune cells and may influence inflammatory response. Furthermore, there is growing interest in the role of FSH in prostate cancer progression. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the literature on the extra-gonadal effects of FSH in men, with a focus on the often-conflicting results reported in this field. Despite the contradictory findings, the potential for future development in this area is substantial, and further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects and their clinical implications.
Monitoring of Levosimendan Administration in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension Undergoing Cardiac Surgery and Effect of Two Different Dosing Schemes on Hemodynamic and Echocardiographic Parameters
Authors: Ftikos Panagiotis , Falara Areti , Rellia Panagiota , Leontiadis Evangelos , Samanidis George , Kamperi Natalia , Piperakis Artemios , Tamvakopoulos Constantin , Antoniou Theofani , Theodoraki Kassiani
Published: May 2023

Introduction: The perioperative management of patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) undergoing cardiac surgery represents one of the most challenging clinical scenarios. This fact mainly depends on the relationship existing between PH and right ventricular failure (RVF). Levosimendan (LS) is an inodilator that might be an effective agent in the treatment of PH and RVF. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the duration of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) on the therapeutic drug monitoring of LS and to evaluate the effect of preemptive administration of LS on perioperative hemodynamic and echocardiographic parameters in cardiac surgical patients with preexisting PH. Materials and Methods: In this study, LS was administered in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery before CPB in order to prevent exacerbation of preexisting PH and subsequent right ventricular dysfunction. Thirty cardiac surgical patients with preoperatively confirmed PH were randomized to receive either 6 μg/kg or 12 μg/kg of LS after the induction of anesthesia. The plasma concentration of LS was measured after CPB. In this study, a low sample volume was used combined with a simple sample preparation protocol. The plasma sample was extracted by protein precipitation and evaporated; then, the analyte was reconstituted and detected using specific and sensitive bioanalytical liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methodology. The clinical, hemodynamic, and echocardiographic parameters were registered and evaluated before and after the administration of the drug. Results: A fast bioanalytical LC-MS/MS methodology (a run time of 5.5 min) was developed for the simultaneous determination of LS and OR-1896, its main metabolite in human plasma. The LC-MS/MS method was linear over a range of 0.1–50 ng/mL for LS and 1–50 ng/mL for its metabolite OR-1896. Measured plasma concentrations of LS were inversely related to the duration of CPB. LS administration before CPB during cardiac surgery was effective in reducing pulmonary artery pressure and improving hemodynamic parameters after CPB, with a more pronounced and durable effect of the drug at the dose of 12 μg/kg. Additionally, administration of LS at a dose of 12 μg/kg in cardiac surgical patients with PH before CPB improved right ventricular function. Conclusion: LS administration decreases pulmonary artery pressure and may improve right ventricular function in patients with PH undergoing cardiac surgery.
Mast Cells as a Potential Target of Molecular Hydrogen in Regulating the Local Tissue Microenvironment
Authors: Atiakshin Dmitri , Kostin Andrey , Volodkin Artem , Nazarova Anna , Shishkina Viktoriya , Esaulenko Dmitry , Buchwalow Igor , Tiemann Markus , Noda Mami
Published: May 2023

Knowledge of the biological effects of molecular hydrogen (H2), hydrogen gas, is constantly advancing, giving a reason for the optimism in several healthcare practitioners regarding the management of multiple diseases, including socially significant ones (malignant neoplasms, diabetes mellitus, viral hepatitis, mental and behavioral disorders). However, mechanisms underlying the biological effects of H2 are still being actively debated. In this review, we focus on mast cells as a potential target for H2 at the specific tissue microenvironment level. H2 regulates the processing of pro-inflammatory components of the mast cell secretome and their entry into the extracellular matrix; this can significantly affect the capacity of the integrated-buffer metabolism and the structure of the immune landscape of the local tissue microenvironment. The analysis performed highlights several potential mechanisms for developing the biological effects of H2 and offers great opportunities for translating the obtained findings into clinical practice.
Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Inherited Neuropathies: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hustinx Manon , Shorrocks Ann-Marie , Servais Laurent
Published: May 2023

The management of inherited neuropathies relies mostly on the treatment of symptoms. In recent years, a better understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms that underlie neuropathies has allowed for the development of disease-modifying therapies. Here, we systematically review the therapies that have emerged in this field over the last five years. An updated list of diseases with peripheral neuropathy as a clinical feature was created based on panels of genes used clinically to diagnose inherited neuropathy. This list was extended by an analysis of published data by the authors and verified by two experts. A comprehensive search for studies of human patients suffering from one of the diseases in our list yielded 28 studies that assessed neuropathy as a primary or secondary outcome. Although the use of various scales and scoring systems made comparisons difficult, this analysis identified diseases associated with neuropathy for which approved therapies exist. An important finding is that the symptoms and/or biomarkers of neuropathies were assessed only in a minority of cases. Therefore, further investigation of treatment efficacy on neuropathies in future trials must employ objective, consistent methods such as wearable technologies, motor unit indexes, MRI or sonography imaging, or the use of blood biomarkers associated with consistent nerve conduction studies.
Recognition of Orbital Angular Momentum of Vortex Beams Based on Convolutional Neural Network and Multi-Objective Classifier
Authors: Zhang Yanzhu , Zhao He , Wu Hao , Chen Ziyang , Pu Jixiong
Published: May 2023

Vortex beams carry orbital angular momentum (OAM), and their inherent infinite dimensional eigenstates can enhance the ability for optical communication and information processing in the classical and quantum fields. The measurement of the OAM of vortex beams is of great significance for optical communication applications based on vortex beams. Most of the existing measurement methods require the beam to have a regular spiral wavefront. Nevertheless, the wavefront of the light will be distorted when a vortex beam propagates through a random medium, hindering the accurate recognition of OAM by traditional methods. Deep learning offers a solution to identify the OAM of the vortex beam from a speckle field. However, the method based on deep learning usually requires a lot of data, while it is difficult to attain a large amount of data in some practical applications. To solve this problem, we design a framework based on convolutional neural network (CNN) and multi-objective classifier (MOC), by which the OAM of vortex beams can be identified with high accuracy using a small amount of data. We find that by combining CNN with different structures and MOC, the highest accuracy reaches 96.4%, validating the feasibility of the proposed scheme.
Antoine Equation Coefficients for Novichok Agents (A230, A232, and A234) via Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Chalaris Michail , Koufou Antonios
Published: May 2023

The flexible models of Novichok agents (A230, A232, and A234) from previous molecular dynamics simulations (MDSs) have been employed to create a parameter set for the Antoine equation of each of the three liquids. Furthermore, for the needs of this paper, new models of Novichok agents were created and studied via MDS due to the fact that the exact molecular structure of these compounds has been a matter of discussion in the last few years; however, recently, the literature favors a particular set of structures. Therefore, to cover our study holistically, both of the proposed molecular formulas were employed in the simulations and discussion. A range of ambient conditions was selected, and the data from the molecular dynamics simulations were employed to give the best possible fit in the selected vapor pressure range. When looking at the results for the two structures of A230, A232, and A234, we can see that, despite their differences, the A and B coefficients have the same magnitude in both cases (structures proposed by Ellison and Hoenig and structures proposed by Mirzayanov). Moving from the Ellison and Hoenig to Mirzayanov structures for substances A230 and A234 revealed a decrease (slight to major) in factors A and B of the Antoine equation. However, in the case of A232, where the Mirzayanov structure produces higher coefficients, this does not hold true. Overall, the Antoine equation of the studied agents will be an essential tool for understanding the behavior of these substances under different conditions.
Chemical Constituents, Enantiomer Content, Antioxidant and Anticholinesterase Activities of Valeriana microphylla Kunth Essential Oil
Authors: Aguilar Gabriela , Calva James , Cartuche Luis , Salinas Melissa , Armijos Chabaco
Published: May 2023

The study of the essential oil (EO) from aerial parts (stems and leaves) of Valeriana microphylla Kunth (Valerianaceae), collected from the Saraguro community in the southern region of Ecuador, was analyzed for the first time. A total of 62 compounds were identified in V. microphylla EO by GC-FID and GC-MS on nonpolar DB-5ms and polar HP-INNOWax columns. The most abundant components (>5%) detected on DB-5ms and polar HP-INNOWax columns were α-gurjunene (11.98, 12.74%), germacrene D (11.47, 14.93%), E-caryophyllene (7.05, 7.78%), and α-copaene (6.76, 6.91%), respectively. In addition, the enantioselective analysis, carried out on a chiral column, showed (+)-α-pinene and (R)-(+)-germacrene as enantiomerically pure compounds (enantiomeric excess = 100%). The antioxidant activity was high for the radicals ABTS (SC50 = 41.82 µg/mL) and DPPH (SC50 = 89.60 µg/mL), and finally, the EO was shown to be inactive to the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), as both values were >250 µg/mL.
The Invasive Tradescantia zebrina Affects Litter Decomposition, but It Does Not Change the Lignocellulolytic Fungal Community in the Atlantic Forest, Brazil
Authors: Chiba de Castro Wagner Antonio , Vaz Giselle Cristina de Oliveira , Silva Matos Dalva Maria da , Vale Alvaro Herrera , Bueno Any Caroline Pantaleão , Fagundes Luiz Fernando Grandi , Costa Letícia da , Bonugli Santos Rafaella Costa
Published: May 2023

Invasive plants affect ecosystems across various scales. In particular, they affect the quality and quantity of litter, which influences the composition of decomposing (lignocellulolytic) fungal communities. However, the relationship among the quality of invasive litter, lignocellulolytic cultivated fungal community composition, and litter decomposition rates under invasive conditions is still unknown. We evaluated whether the invasive herbaceous Tradescantia zebrina affects the litter decomposition in the Atlantic Forest and the lignocellulolytic cultivated fungal community composition. We placed litter bags with litter from the invader and native plants in invaded and non-invaded areas, as well as under controlled conditions. We evaluated the lignocellulolytic fungal communities by culture method and molecular identification. Litter from T. zebrina decomposed faster than litter from native species. However, the invasion of T. zebrina did not alter decomposition rates of either litter type. Although the lignocellulolytic fungal community composition changed over decomposition time, neither the invasion of T. zebrina nor litter type influenced lignocellulolytic fungal communities. We believe that the high plant richness in the Atlantic Forest enables a highly diversified and stable decomposing biota formed in conditions of high plant diversity. This diversified fungal community is capable of interacting with different litter types under different environmental conditions.
Characterization of CcTFL1 Governing Plant Architecture in Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.)
Authors: Mendapara Isha , Modha Kaushal , Patel Sunayan , Parekh Vipulkumar , Patel Ritesh , Chauhan Digvijay , Bardhan Kirti , Siddiqui Manzer H. , Alamri Saud , Rahman Md Atikur
Published: May 2023

Growth habits are among the essential adaptive traits acted upon by evolution during plant speciation. They have brought remarkable changes in the morphology and physiology of plants. Inflorescence architecture varies greatly between wild relatives and cultivars of pigeon pea. The present study isolated the CcTFL1 (Terminal Flowering Locus 1) locus using six varieties showing determinate (DT) and indeterminate (IDT) growth habits. Multiple alignments of CcTFL1 sequences revealed the presence of InDel, which describes a 10 bp deletion in DT varieties. At the same time, IDT varieties showed no deletion. InDel altered the translation start point in DT varieties, resulting in the shortening of exon 1. This InDel was validated in ten varieties of cultivated species and three wild relatives differing in growth habits. The predicted protein structure showed the absence of 27 amino acids in DT varieties, which was reflected in mutant CcTFL1 by the absence of two α-helices, a connecting loop, and shortened β-sheet. By subsequent motif analysis, it was found that the wild-type protein had a phosphorylation site for protein kinase C, but the mutant protein did not. In silico analysis revealed that the InDel-driven deletion of amino acids spans, containing a phosphorylation site for kinase protein, may have resulted in the non-functionality of the CcTFL1 protein, rendering the determinate growth habit. This characterization of the CcTFL1 locus could be used to modulate growth habits through genome editing.
Phenotypic, Physiological, and Molecular Response of Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum under Different Light Quality Treatments Based on Leaf Color Changes
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Liu Yang , Ling Lin , Huo Wenwen , Li Yang , Xu Lu , Xiang Lili , Yang Yujie , Xiong Xingyao , Zhang Donglin , Yu Xiaoying , Li Yanlin
Published: May 2023

Light quality is a vital environmental signal used to trigger growth and to develop structural differentiation in plants, and it influences morphological, physiological, and biochemical metabolites. In previous studies, different light qualities were found to regulate the synthesis of anthocyanin. However, the mechanism of the synthesis and accumulation of anthocyanins in leaves in response to light quality remains unclear. In this study, the Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum “Xiangnong Fendai” plant was treated with white light (WL), blue light (BL), ultraviolet-A light (UL), and blue light plus ultraviolet-A light (BL + UL), respectively. Under BL, the leaves were described as increasing in redness from “olive green” to “reddish-brown”. The chlorophyll, carotenoid, anthocyanin, and total flavonoid content were significantly higher at 7 d than at 0 d. In addition, BL treatment also significantly increased the accumulation of soluble sugar and soluble protein. In contrast to BL, ultraviolet-A light increased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the activities of three antioxidant enzymes in the leaves, including catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), in varying degrees over time. Moreover, we also found that the CRY-like gene, HY5-like gene, BBX-like gene, MYB-like gene, CHS-like gene, DFR-like gene, ANS-like gene, and UFGT-like gene were significantly upregulated. Furthermore, the SOD-like, POD-like, and CAT-like gene expressions related to antioxidase synthesis were found under ultraviolet-A light conditions. In summary, BL is more conducive to reddening the leaves of “Xiangnong Fendai” and will not lead to excessive photooxidation. This provides an effective ecological strategy for light-induced leaf-color changes, thereby promoting the ornamental and economic value of L. chinense var. rubrum.
Efficient Plant Regeneration System from Leaf Explant Cultures of Daphne genkwa via Somatic Embryogenesis
Authors: Ku Seong Sub , Woo Hyun-A , Shin Min Jun , Jie Eun Yee , Kim HyeRan , Kim Hyun-Soon , Cho Hye Sun , Jeong Won-Joong , Lee Moon-Soon , Min Sung Ran , Kim Suk Weon
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to establish an efficient plant regeneration system from leaf-derived embryogenic structure cultures of Daphne genkwa. To induce embryogenic structures, fully expanded leaf explants of D. genkwa were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 0, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, and 5 mg·L−1 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), respectively. After 8 weeks of incubation, the highest frequency of embryogenic structure formation reached 100% when the leaf explants were cultivated on MS medium supplemented with 0.1 to 1 mg·L−1 2,4-D. At higher concentrations of 2,4-D (over 2 mg·L−1 2,4-D), the frequency of embryogenic structure formation significantly declined. Similar to 2,4-D, indole butyric acid (IBA) and α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) treatments were also able to form embryogenic structures. However, the frequency of embryogenic structure formation was lower than that of 2,4-D. In particular, the yellow embryonic structure (YES) and white embryonic structure (WES) were simultaneously developed from the leaf explants of D. genkwa on culture medium containing 2,4-D, IBA, and NAA, respectively. Embryogenic calluses (ECs) were formed from the YES after subsequent rounds of subculture on MS medium supplemented with 1 mg·L−1 2,4-D. To regenerate whole plants, the embryogenic callus (EC) and the two embryogenic structures (YES and WES) were transferred onto MS medium supplemented with 0.1 mg·L−1 6-benzyl aminopurine (BA). The YES had the highest plant regeneration potential via somatic embryo and shoot development compared to the EC and WES. To our knowledge, this is the first successful report of a plant regeneration system via the somatic embryogenesis of D. genkwa. Thus, the embryogenic structures and plant regeneration system of D. genkwa could be applied to mass proliferation and genetic modification for pharmaceutical metabolite production in D. genkwa.
Bacteria-Polymer Composite Material for Glycerol Valorization
Authors: Ripoll Magdalena , Soriano Nicolás , Ibarburu Sofía , Dalies Malena , Mulet Ana Paula , Betancor Lorena
Published: May 2023

Bacterial immobilization is regarded as an enabling technology to improve the stability and reusability of biocatalysts. Natural polymers are often used as immobilization matrices but present certain drawbacks, such as biocatalyst leakage and loss of physical integrity upon utilization in bioprocesses. Herein, we prepared a hybrid polymeric matrix that included silica nanoparticles for the unprecedented immobilization of the industrially relevant Gluconobacter frateurii (Gfr). This biocatalyst can valorize glycerol, an abundant by-product of the biodiesel industry, into glyceric acid (GA) and dihydroxyacetone (DHA). Different concentrations of siliceous nanosized materials, such as biomimetic Si nanoparticles (SiNps) and montmorillonite (MT), were added to alginate. These hybrid materials were significantly more resistant by texture analysis and presented a more compact structure as seen by scanning electron microscopy. The preparation including 4% alginate with 4% SiNps proved to be the most resistant material, with a homogeneous distribution of the biocatalyst in the beads as seen by confocal microscopy using a fluorescent mutant of Gfr. It produced the highest amounts of GA and DHA and could be reused for up to eight consecutive 24 h reactions with no loss of physical integrity and negligible bacterial leakage. Overall, our results indicate a new approach to generating biocatalysts using hybrid biopolymer supports.
Novel Rhinological Application of Polylactic Acid—An In Vitro Study
Authors: Gowrav M. P. , Siree K. G. , Amulya T. M. , Bharathi M. B. , Ghazwani Mohammed , Alamri Ali , Alalkami Abdulatef Y. , Kumar T. M. Pramod , Ahmed Mohammed Muqtader , Rahamathulla Mohamed
Published: May 2023

A novel approach to the treatment of sinusitis is the use of nasal stents. The stent is loaded with a corticosteroid, which prevents complications in the wound-healing process. The design is such that it will prevent the sinus from closing again. The stent is 3D printed using a fused deposition modeling printer, which enhances the customization. The polymer utilized for the purpose of 3D printing is polylactic acid (PLA). The compatibility between the drugs and polymers is confirmed by FT-IR and DSC. The drug is loaded onto the polymer by soaking the stent in the drug’s solvent, known as the solvent casting method. Using this method, approximately 68% of drug loading is found to be achieved onto the PLA filaments, and a total of 72.8% of drug loading is obtained in terms of the 3D-printed stent. Drug loading is confirmed by the morphological characteristics of the stent by SEM, where the loaded drug is clearly visible as white specks on the surface of the stent. Drug release characterization is conducted by dissolution studies, which also confirm drug loading. The dissolution studies show that the release of drugs from the stent is constant and not erratic. Biodegradation studies were conducted after increasing the rate of degradation of PLA by soaking it in PBS for a predetermined duration of time. The mechanical properties of the stent, such as stress factor and maximum displacement, are discussed. The stent has a hairpin-like mechanism for opening inside the nasal cavity.
Mechanical and Biocompatibility Properties of 3D-Printed Dental Resin Reinforced with Glass Silica and Zirconia Nanoparticles: In Vitro Study
Authors: Alshamrani Abdullah , Alhotan Abdulaziz , Kelly Elizabeth , Ellakwa Ayman
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to assess the mechanical and biocompatibility properties of dental resin reinforced with different nanoparticle additives. Temporary crown specimens were 3D-printed and grouped based on nanoparticle type and amount, including zirconia and glass silica. Flexural strength testing evaluated the material’s ability to withstand mechanical stress using a three-point bending test. Biocompatibility was tested using MTT and dead/live cell assays to assess effects on cell viability and tissue integration. Fractured specimens were analysed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) for fracture surface examination and elemental composition determination. Results show that adding 5% glass fillers and 10–20% zirconia nanoparticles significantly improves the flexural strength and biocompatibility of the resin material. Specifically, the addition of 10%, 20% zirconia, and 5% glass silica by weight significantly increases the flexural strength of the 3D-printed resins. Biocompatibility testing reveals cell viabilities greater than 80% in all tested groups. Reinforced 3D-printed resin holds clinical potential for restorative dentistry, as zirconia and glass fillers have been shown to enhance mechanical and biocompatibility properties of dental resin, making it a promising option for dental restorations. The findings of this study may contribute to the development of more effective and durable dental materials.
Recent Advances and Challenges in Long Wavelength Sensitive Cationic Photoinitiating Systems
Authors: Zhang Liping , Li Lun , Chen Ying , Pi Junyi , Liu Ren , Zhu Yi
Published: May 2023

With the advantages offered by cationic photopolymerization (CP) such as broad wavelength activation, tolerance to oxygen, low shrinkage and the possibility of “dark cure”, it has attracted extensive attention in photoresist, deep curing and other fields in recent years. The applied photoinitiating systems (PIS) play a crucial role as they can affect the speed and type of the polymerization and properties of the materials formed. In the past few decades, much effort has been invested into developing cationic photoinitiating systems (CPISs) that can be activated at long wavelengths and overcome technical problems and challenges faced. In this article, the latest developments in the long wavelength sensitive CPIS under ultraviolet (UV)/visible light-emitting diodes (LED) lights are reviewed. The objective is, furthermore, to show differences as well as parallels between different PIS and future perspectives.
Development of an Epoxy Matrix Hybrid Composite with Astrocaryum Aculeatum (Tucumã) Endocarp and Kaolin from the Amazonas State in Brazil
Authors: Kieling Antonio Claudio , de Macedo Neto José Costa , del Pino Gilberto Garcia , da Silva Barboza Ricardo , Diáz Francisco Rolando Valenzuela , Rivera José Luis Valin , Fernández Meylí Valin , Ketterer Cristobal Galleguillos , Ortega Alvaro González , Abarzúa Roberto Iquilio
Published: May 2023

Composites with natural lignocellulosic fillers are being cited as a viable and sustainable alternative to conventional materials, as they combine lower costs with lower weight. In many tropical countries, such as Brazil, there is a considerable amount of lignocellulosic waste that is improperly discarded, which causes pollution of the environment. The Amazon region has huge deposits of clay silicate materials in the Negro River basin, such as kaolin, which can be used as fillers in polymeric composite materials. This work investigates a new composite material (ETK) made of epoxy resin (ER), powdered tucumã endocarp (PTE), and kaolin (K), without coupling agents, with the aim of producing a composite with lower environmental impact. The ETK samples, totaling 25 different compositions, were prepared by cold molding. Characterizations of the samples were performed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR). In addition, the mechanical properties were determined via tensile, compressive, three-point flexural and impact tests. The FTIR and SEM results showed an interaction between ER, PTE, and K, and the incorporation of PTE and K reduced the mechanical properties of the ETK samples. Nonetheless, these composites can be considered potential materials to be used for sustainable engineering applications in which high mechanical strength is not a main requirement of the material.
Catalytic Design of Matrix-Isolated Ni-Polymer Composites for Methane Catalytic Decomposition
Authors: Kulikova Mayya V. , Ivantsov Mikhail I. , Sotnikova Anastasia E. , Samoilov Vadim O.
Published: May 2023

Targeted synthesis of C/composite Ni-based material was carried out by the method of matrix isolation. The composite was formed with regard to the features of the reaction of catalytic decomposition of methane. The morphology and physicochemical properties of these materials have been characterized using a number of methods: elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, temperature programmed reduction (TPR-H2), specific surface areas (SSA), thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry (TGA/DSC). It was shown by FTIR spectroscopy that nickel ions are immobilized on the polymer molecule of polyvinyl alcohol, and during heat treatment, polycondensation sites are formed on the surface of the polymer molecule. By the method of Raman spectroscopy, it was shown that already at a temperature of 250 °C, a developed conjugation system with sp2-hybridized carbon atoms begins to form. The SSA method shows that the formation of the composite material resulted in a matrix with a developed specific surface area of 20 to 214 m2/g. The XRD method shows that nanoparticles are essentially characterized by Ni, NiO reflexes. The composite material was established by microscopy methods to be a layered structure with uniformly distributed nickel-containing particles 5–10 nm in size. The XPS method determined that metallic nickel was present on the surface of the material. A high specific activity was found in the process of catalytic decomposition of methane—from 0.9 to 1.4 gH2/gcat/h, XCH4, from 33 to 45% at a reaction temperature of 750 °C without the stage of catalyst preliminary activation. During the reaction, the formation of multi-walled carbon nanotubes occurs.
Chitosan Glutaraldegyde Cryogels for Wastewater Treatment and Extraction of Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Berillo Dmitriy , Arysbek Aknazar
Published: May 2023

The discharge of nanoparticles into the environment, such as through industrial plants and municipal wastewater treatment plants, can pose a hazard to aquatic life. This study demonstrates the effective removal of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using a chitosan-based cryogel, which has potential applications in agriculture, as well as in water treatment or in industrial plants that discharge into environmentally sensitive water bodies. The adsorbent is economically viable, has high affinity toward metal nanoparticles, is biodegradable and biocompatible, and displays a good removal of nanoparticles. AgNP adsorption was monitored using UV/Vis spectroscopy and TEM analysis. SEM, nitrogen adsorption, TGA, and FTIR analysis were used for cryogel characterization. The BET model of nitrogen adsorption revealed a specific surface area of 7.7 m2/g for chitosan–glutaraldehyde (CHI–GA) cryogels. The elasticity modulus of the CHI–GA cryogel was estimated as 543 ± 54 kPa. The AgNPs were characterized by a negative charge (−38 ± 17 mV) and an average diameter of 64 nm with a polydispersity index of 0.16. The mechanism of AgNP adsorption involved electrostatic interactions between the oppositely charged surfaces of the cryogel and particles. The temperature of the cryogel preparation affected the water permeability and adsorption efficiency. CHI–GA illustrated a capacity of 63 mg/g at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min under a solution pressure of 500–970 Pa. The increase in pressure of the model plant extract-stabilized AgNP suspension (14 mg/L AgNPs) to 3.42–3.9 kPa led to an increase in the water permeability rate to 10 mL/min and a significant decrease in the efficiency of particle removal. The CHI–GA adsorbent demonstrated up to 96.5% AgNP removal until the breakthrough point due to adsorbent saturation. The CHI–GA cryogel adsorbent (1 g) can be used for efficient filtering of about 4.5 L of contaminated water.
Indium Recycling from Waste Liquid Crystal Displays: Is It Possible?
Authors: Anić Vučinić Aleksandra , Šimunić Snježana , Radetić Lucija , Presečki Ivana
Published: May 2023

The utilization of valuable properties of waste and their reuse as raw materials is an imperative of the circular economy. Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is a significant source of valuable raw materials, certain metals, and rare earth elements that are the basis for highly sophisticated IT equipment production. It is estimated that the production of WEEE in Europe in 2019 was 16.20 kg/inhabitant, while quantities continue to grow at a rate of 3–4% per year. Waste liquid crystal displays used in televisions, laptops, desktops, and other devices represent a significant share of WEEE and contain 0.12–0.14% of liquid crystals whose main ingredient is indium—tin oxide. In order to investigate and determine the methods and conditions of indium recycling from waste LCDs, laboratory research was conducted. The influence of temperature, particle size, and retention time in different media with and without ultrasound treatment was monitored to provide the efficiency of indium leaching. The analysis of the results showed that 98% indium leaching was achieved with granulation samples of 10 × 10 mm at a temperature 40 °C/40 min in solution H2O:HCl: HNO3 = 6:2:1 under ultrasound conditions, while aqueous and alkaline media under the same conditions did not show significant efficiency. This study can be used as a practical reference for the recycling of indium from LCD panels.
Ketones in Low-Temperature Oxidation Products of Crude Oil
Authors: Ma Shuai , Li Yunyun , Su Rigu , Wu Jianxun , Xie Lingyuan , Tang Junshi , Wang Xusheng , Pan Jingjun , Wang Yuanfeng , Shi Quan , Liao Guangzhi , Xu Chunming
Published: May 2023

Ketone compounds are oxidation products of crude oil in the in-situ combustion (ISC) process. Revealing the molecular composition of ketones can provide theoretical guidance for understanding the oxidation process of crude oil and valuable clues for studying the combustion state of crude oil in the reservoir. In this study, low-temperature oxidation (LTO) processes were simulated in thermal oxidation experiments to obtain thermally oxidized oil at different temperatures (170 °C, 220 °C, 270 °C, and 320 °C). A combination of chemical derivatization and positive-ion electrospray (ESI) Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) was used to analyze the molecular composition of different kinds of ketones (fatty ketones, naphthenic ketones, and aromatic ketones) in the oxidized oils at different temperatures. The results showed that the concentration of aliphatic ketones and aliphatic cyclic ketones in the product oils decreased with the increase in temperature, while aromatic ketones increased with the increase in temperature. At the same oxidation temperature, the content of ketones follows this order: fatty ketones < cycloalkanes < aromatic ketones. The concentrations of ketones reached their maximum value at 170 °C and decreased at high temperatures due to over-oxidation. It was also found that nitrogen-containing compounds are more easily oxidized to ketone compounds than their hydrocarbon counterparts in the LTO process.
Prediction of Favourable Hydrocarbon Transport Pathways of the Jiuzhou Fault in Langgu Sag, Bohai Bay Basin
Authors: Liu Junqiao , Lv Yanfang , Wang Ye , Kang Yunshuang , Hu Xinlei , Shi Jijian
Published: May 2023

The Jiuzhou fault in the Langgu Sag of the Bohai Bay Basin is a significant oil-source fault that connects source rocks and reservoirs, and thus it can transport oil and gas during the hydrocarbon accumulation period. The hydrocarbon distribution characteristics along the strike of the Jiuzhou fault differ distinctly, indicating that the transport capacity in different fault segments is also different. In this study, we focused on analyzing the fault development characteristics to accurately predict the location of favorable hydrocarbon transport pathways on the Jiuzhou fault. We found that the zones superimposed by paleo relay ramps developed before hydrocarbon accumulation, active faulting areas during hydrocarbon accumulation, and transport ridges of the fault are favourable along-fault locations for transporting hydrocarbons. Based on this idea and 3D seismic data, we investigated the distribution of the paleo relay ramps of the Jiuzhou fault and the fault activity rate during hydrocarbon accumulation using the maximum throw subtraction method. Then, the burial depth contour was employed to search hydrocarbon transport ridges of the fault and therefore predict the location of favourable hydrocarbon transport pathways of the Jiuzhou fault. The prediction results show that there are totally 4 favorable hydrocarbon transport pathways, where hydrocarbons are more likely to migrate vertically and finally accumulate in the overlying formations. In addition, the pathway locations of the Jiuzhou fault are consistent with the hydrocarbon distribution in the study area, demonstrating that this method is reliable and feasible for predicting the favorable hydrocarbon transport pathways of oil-source faults.
Unlocking the Full Potential: New Frontiers in Anaerobic Digestion (AD) Processes
Authors: Kusch-Brandt Sigrid , Heaven Sonia , Banks Charles J.
Published: May 2023

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a bio-based solution designed to convert organic materials into renewable energy and other products, such as soil improver and organic fertiliser [...]
Characteristic Analysis of Finite Dissipation Zone in Directional Material Flow
Authors: Ren Hong , Meng Wenjun , Sun Xiaoxia , Zhao Zhangda , Zhao Xiaoxia
Published: May 2023

Materials compress each other in a directional material flow, causing energy and momentum to overflow. Materials moving at a low velocity outside the boundary of a rigid moving component form a finite dissipation zone. A discrete element model is established to explore its characteristics. First, the mass of material driven by the disk increases linearly with an increase in the translation distance, and the mass of material moving at a low velocity increases significantly. Second, the movement state of materials depends on its distance from the disk. The material velocity at the boundary of the finite dissipation zone is verified to be 1 mm/s by analyzing the material velocity and contact force. When the operating parameters are different, the boundary curves of the finite dissipation zone are similar but the numerical values are different. Third, the maximum edge extends 0.7–3.0 mm beyond the boundary, and this value is linearly related to the translation velocity with little impact from the lowering depth. Studying the mechanism of finite dissipation zones contributes to forming an efficient directional material flow and the energy dissipation mechanism under a flexible constraint.
Effective Removal of Ammonium from Aqueous Solution by Ball-Milled Biochar Modified with NaOH
Authors: Yang Hefeng , Li Xiangming , Wang Yuting , Wang Junxia , Yang Lihong , Ma Zhiqiang , Luo Jipeng , Cui Xiaoqiang , Yan Beibei , Chen Guanyi
Published: May 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of using modified biochars to enhance removal of ammonium from aqueous solution. The pristine, NaOH-modified, ball-milled, and NaOH-modified ball-milled biochars were prepared from wheat straw at 500 °C. The surface morphology and characteristics of biochar were obviously changed after modification. The NaOH-modification elevated the pH value and ash content of biochar, and the ball-milling treatment promoted the formation of oxygen-containing functional groups. The specific surface area of biochar (20.9 m2/g) increased to 51.4 m2/g and 145.6 m2/g after NaOH-modification and ball-milling treatment, respectively. The modified biochars showed considerable ammonium sorption capacity in a wide pH range (3–7), and the optimal pH of ammonium sorption was around 6. Both NaOH-modification and ball-milling treatment improved ammonium sorption on the biochars. Ammonium sorption of the biochars could be well fitted by the Langmuir and pseudo-second-order model, and the NaOH-modified ball-milled biochar showed the highest ammonium sorption capacity of 8.93 mg g−1. The surface complexation with oxygen-containing functional groups and cation exchange were the dominant mechanisms of ammonium sorption on the biochars. These results indicate that NaOH-modified/ball-milled biochar has a good potential to be used for the ammonium removal from polluted water.
Life Cycle Assessment of Fuel Ethanol Production from Food Waste in Consideration of By-Product Utilization
Authors: Zhou Jun , Ma Hongzhi , Lv Pin , Su Wei , Wang Qunhui , Gao Ming , Qin Heyang
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a life cycle assessment was used to evaluate fuel ethanol production from food waste with a capacity of 20 tons/day. The energy and pollution emissions during the whole process were recorded and compared by the method of electricity conversion to standard coal. Different indicators, such as GWP (global warming potential), ODP (ozone depletion potential), AP (acid potential), EP (possibility of eutrophication), POCP (photochemical oxidation potential), and DUST (dust), were used to perform an environmental impact analysis with and without by-product utilization. The result shows that the indicator sequence under the weighted factor sequence was AP > DUST > GWP > ODP > EP > POCP. The consideration of by-products decreased the values of GWP, AP, and DUST significantly; EP declined slightly; ODP and POCP increased; and the overall energy output was negative. The consideration of by-product utilization was determined to be environmentally friendly.