bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Effects of Dust Storms on the South Edge of the Taklimakan Desert, China: A Survey-Based Approach
Authors: Aili Aishajiang , Xu Hailiang , Zhao Xinfeng
Published: March 2022

Dust storms have already become the most serious environmental problem on the south edge of the Taklimakan desert because of their frequent occurrences. To investigate the health effects of dust storms on public health in Moyu County, one of the most severe dust-storm-affected areas located at the south edge of the Taklimakan desert, China, primary data were collected from 1200 respondents by using a questionnaire survey for 15 health symptoms. The data were analyzed by comparing the mean tool (independent t-test and ANOVA) and the severity of different symptoms among different age groups. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to further analyze the multivariate relationships between meteorological factors, dust storm intensity, air pollution level, and severity degree of the different symptoms. The results show that significant correlations exist between dust storm intensity, air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, O3, SO2, NO2, and CO), meteorological factors, and health symptoms. During dusty weather, no matter the age group, the number of respondents who suffered from different health symptoms was higher compared to non-dusty days. Three types of dusty days were considered in this study: suspended dust, blowing dust, and sand storms. The impacts of sand storm weather on public health are stronger than those from blowing dust weather, suspended dust weather (haze), and non-dust weather. The people in the age groups above 60 years and below 15 years were more sensitive to different dust weather than people in the age groups between 15 and 60. “Dry throat with bitter taste”, “Depression”, “Dry and itchy throat”, and “Mouth ulcer” are the main symptoms caused by dust storms.
Psychopathology and Alexithymia in Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis: Development of a Novel Index with Prognostic Value
Authors: Tsiori Sofia , Rompoti Natalia , Kontoangelos Konstantinos , Papageorgiou Christos , Papageorgiou Charalabos , Stratigos Alexander , Rigopoulos Dimitrios
Published: March 2022

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, relapsing, inflammatory disease with a high risk of developing mental health difficulties. Objective: The purposes of the study were to evaluate in moderate-to-severe psoriasis (a) the prevalence of depression and psychopathology, (b) the relationship between depression, psychopathology symptoms, and alexithymia, including its three dimensions, difficulty in identifying feelings (DIF), difficulty in describing feelings (DDF), and externally oriented thinking (EOT), and (c) to establish a novel index for the development of depression according to patients’ psychopathological profile. Methods: In 104 patients, alexithymia was evaluated with the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), depression with the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and psychopathology with the Brief Symptom Inventory SCL-90 (SCL90). A psychopathology index that combines information from the BDI and SCL90 scales was constructed and the performance of the index with alexithymia was examined. Results: Female patients and active smokers score higher on BDI and SCL90 scales. Overweight patients tend to score arithmetically higher. The psychopathology index developed correlates significantly with age, DIF, DDF, and TAS-20. DIF, DDF, and TAS-20 are significant predictors of the psychopathology index. Patients with alexithymia/possible alexithymia are six times as likely to score higher in one of the psychopathology scales. Conclusions: Alexithymia is a significant factor in the development of psychopathology in psoriasis patients. The use of the proposed novel psychopathology index could be essential in order to identify patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis who are more likely to experience depression and psychopathology. This could have an impact on the decision-making of psoriasis treatment and monitoring of the patient.
Multi-Scenario Landscape Ecological Risk Simulation for Sustainable Development Goals: A Case Study on the Central Mountainous Area of Hainan Island
Authors: Han Nianlong , Yu Miao , Jia Peihong
Published: March 2022

The sustainable development goals (SDGs) of the United Nations are focused on regional development and ecological security. Based on these SDGs, quantitative regional landscape ecological risk assessment is significant to realize regional sustainable development. This study took the central mountainous area (CMA) of Hainan Island as the research area, and combined SDGs and a patch-generating land-use simulation (PLUS) model to analyze multi-scenario land-use change and landscape ecological risk simulation. The study results show that the low ecological risk areas are located in the central hinterland of the CMA, and the high ecological risk areas are located on the northern and southern edges, with strong disturbances from human activities. The construction land in the CMA expanded drastically from 2010 to 2018, mainly invading forestland and grassland, leading to landscape fragmentation, which was the main cause of the increased ecological risk in the CMA landscape. The future multi-scenario simulations for SDGs show that under the scenario of natural development and economic development, the construction land and water area will significantly expand and the forest land will be dramatically reduced. Under the ecological protection scenario, the expansion of construction land will be restrained, and the area of forest land will increase. The results showed that the landscape ecological risks in the three simulated scenarios would be higher than in 2018, but the increase in the landscape ecological risks under the ecological protection scenario would be relatively slight. Forest land plays an essential role in maintaining the ecological security of the CMA. The expanding construction land in the CMA has led to landscape fragmentation and increased ecological risk. Therefore, it is necessary to protect the forest land in the CMA. In addition, construction and development should be limited in high-risk areas. Although the adoption of the ecological conservation scenario favors regional sustainability, it is still necessary to improve ecological protection policies such as ecological compensation to ensure the realization of other SDGs.
Prevalence and Periodontal Conditions of Developmental Grooves in an Italian School of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Di Domenico Giovanna Laura , Fabrizi Simone , Capparè Paolo , Sberna Maria Teresa , de Sanctis Massimo
Published: March 2022

Background: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to (i) determine the prevalence and distribution of developmental grooves in a young population and (ii) to evaluate the local periodontal conditions. Methods: Two hundred and fifty-one students with a mean age of 22.9 ± 4.7, attending the School of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene of Vita-Salute San Raffaele University (Milan, Italy) were included. The subjects underwent a clinical evaluation by two calibrated examiners. The following clinical parameters were recorded for each site presenting a radicular groove and for each corresponding site on an adjacent tooth used as control: probing pocket depth, plaque index, bleeding on probing, recession depth. Results: The prevalence of radicular grooves at patient and tooth level was 15.9% and 5%, respectively. When compared to control sites, the number of teeth with a radicular groove that presented plaque and bleeding on probing was higher. The logistic regression analysis showed that the presence of radicular grooves was significantly associated with the presence of plaque (OR, 6.14, p < 0.001) and of bleeding on probing (OR, 2.91, p = 0.01). Conclusions: The presence of radicular grooves increases the possibility of developing gingival inflammation by acting as a plaque retentive factor.
Changes in Pain Sensitivity in Treatment for Breast Cancer: A 12-Month Follow-Up Case Series
Authors: Lorenzo-Gallego Laura , Arranz-Martín Beatriz , Romay-Barrero Helena , Prieto-Gómez Virginia , Lluch Enrique , Torres-Lacomba María
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to investigate changes in the pain sensory profile of women with breast cancer. Five women with unilateral breast cancer were enrolled. Participants were assessed with direct (quantitative sensory testing, QST) and indirect measures of pain sensitization (self-reported central sensitization inventory, CSI) at baseline (before surgery), 1 week after surgery, and at 1, 6, 9, and 12 months post-surgery. In the event of pain occurrence, the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs was also used. Nociceptive pain was the predominant pain mechanism in the postoperative period, while an increase in sensitization predominated one year after breast cancer surgery, especially in those participants who had received more treatment procedures. The participants who received more therapies for breast cancer experienced persistent pain and a higher level of sensitization. An assessment protocol including direct measurements (QST) and indirect measurement (self-reported CSI) allows for detecting changes in pain sensitivity, which can be useful for characterizing and/or predicting pain before, during, and up to one year following surgical interventions for breast cancer.
Dietary Supplement Use during Pregnancy: Perceptions versus Reality
Authors: Xiang Caihong , Luo Jing , Yang Guilian , Sun Minghui , Liu Hanmei , Yang Qiping , Ouyang Yufeng , Xi Yue , Yong Cuiting , Khan Muhammad Jamal , Lin Qian
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to examine the prevalence, associated factors and perceptions of dietary supplement use among pregnant Chinese women. A cross-sectional study was conducted to collect data about prevalence, purchase channels, perceptions, and related factors of dietary supplement use from 572 pregnant women, through a face-to-face survey, using a self-designed questionnaire. Of the respondents, 94.8% used at least one dietary supplement, whereas 29.8% used more than four supplements in the previous month. The majority of the pregnant women were highly educated (81.2% had a bachelor’s degree or above) and had the perception that dietary supplements could prevent and improve (89.2%), or treat, nutrition-related diseases (78.7%). Multivariate analysis showed that pregnant women who had used multiple (more than four) supplements were more likely to have a larger gestational age, received fertility treatment, more prenatal visits, and hypothyroidism during pregnancy. Furthermore, pregnant women not only purchased dietary supplements through hospitals (72.6%) and pharmacies (45.1%), but overseas Daigou or online purchases (31.8%) were also a major channel of purchase. A high prevalence of dietary supplement use during pregnancy was observed, with extensive and repeated consumption of nutrients. Pregnant women’s craze for dietary supplements calls for more comprehensive guidelines in China.
Virtual Reality Assisted Non-Pharmacological Treatments in Chronic Pain Management: A Systematic Review and Quantitative Meta-Analysis
Authors: Grassini Simone
Published: March 2022

Virtual reality (VR) is a developing technology that has recently attracted the attention of healthcare practitioners. Recently, VR systems have been used to treat pain symptoms. The present study aims to evaluate the VR effectiveness on chronic pain management. A systematic literature search was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Keywords were used to discover the potentially eligible studies. The primary focus of the present investigation was to evaluate the possible effect of VR-assisted treatments on chronic pain, especially in the commonly occurring low back and neck pain. Nine studies reporting randomized controlled trials were included in the present study. VR-mediated interventions demonstrated significant improvement for pain symptoms in patients experiencing chronic pain. In addition, VR-mediated therapy decreased pain intensity and disability in the case of chronic neck pain compared to control conditions. However, the VR interventions showed a statistically non-significant improvement in chronic low back pain when experimental groups were compared with controls. VR therapy positive effect on chronic pain did not differ from the one reported for other types of interventions for pain management, as physical exercise and laser therapy. Taken together, these findings showed that currently available lines of evidence on the effect of VR-mediated therapy in chronic pain management, despite pointing towards possible therapeutical benefits of the VR-based intervention, are overall inconclusive and that more research on VR-assisted therapy for chronic pain is needed.
Proteomic Profiling of Saliva and Tears in Radiated Head and Neck Cancer Patients as Compared to Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome Patients
Authors: Hynne Håvard , Aqrawi Lara A. , Jensen Janicke Liaaen , Thiede Bernd , Palm Øyvind , Amdal Cecilie Delphin , Westgaard Kristine Løken , Herlofson Bente Brokstad , Utheim Tor P. , Galtung Hilde Kanli
Published: March 2022

Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) and patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) may exhibit similar symptoms of dry mouth and dry eyes, as a result of radiotherapy (RT) or a consequence of disease progression. To identify the proteins that may serve as promising disease biomarkers, we analysed saliva and tears from 29 radiated HNC patients and 21 healthy controls, and saliva from 14 pSS patients by mass spectrometry-based proteomics. The study revealed several upregulated, and in some instances overlapping, proteins in the two patient groups. Histone H1.4 and neutrophil collagenase were upregulated in whole saliva of both patient groups, while caspase-14, histone H4, and protein S100-A9 were upregulated in HNC saliva only. In HCN tear fluid, the most highly upregulated protein was mucin-like protein 1. These overexpressed proteins in saliva and tears play central roles in inflammation, host cell injury, activation of reactive oxygen species, and tissue repair. In conclusion, the similarities and differences in overexpressed proteins detected in saliva from HNC and pSS patients may contribute to the overall understanding of the different pathophysiological mechanisms inducing dry mouth. Thus, the recurring proteins identified could possibly serve as future promising biomarkers
Human Gingival Fibroblast and Osteoblast Behavior on Groove-Milled Zirconia Implant Surfaces
Authors: da Cruz Mariana Brito , Marques Joana Faria , Silva Neusa , Madeira Sara , Carvalho Óscar , Silva Filipe Samuel , Caramês João , Mata António
Published: March 2022

Two type of cells representing periodontal hard tissues (osteoblasts) and soft tissues (fibroblasts) were evaluated in response to microgroove-milled zirconia surfaces. A total of 90 zirconia discs were randomly assigned to four width-standardized milling microgroove-textured groups and a control group without grooves (UT). The sandblast and acid-etch protocol were applied to all samples. Both cell lines were cultured on zirconia discs from 1 day up to 14 days. Cell morphology and adhesion were evaluated after 1 day of culturing. Cell viability and proliferation of the cells were measured. Alkaline phosphatase activity, collagen I, osteopontin, interleukin 1β and interleukin 8 secretions were assessed at predefined times. The results obtained were presented in the form of bar graphs as means and standard deviations. Multi comparisons between groups were evaluated using two-away ANOVA or Mann–Whitney tests, and a p-value < 0.05 was established. Group comparisons with regard to cell viability, proliferation and secretion of collagen I, interleukin-1β and interleukin 8 revealed no statistically significant differences. The alkaline phosphatase activity and osteopontin secretion were significantly higher in the group with a large groove compared to the small one and the control group. Nevertheless, the viability of gingival and bone cells did not appear to be affected by the milled microgroove texture compared to the conventional sandblasted and acid-etched texture, but they seem to influence osteoblasts’ cellular differentiation.
Fabry-Perot Interference Fiber Acoustic Wave Sensor Based on Laser Welding All-Silica Glass
Authors: Wang Wenhua
Published: March 2022

Due to the small difference between the thermal expansion coefficients of silica optical fiber and silica glass, they are used as probe materials of optical fiber acoustic wave sensors. According to the light absorption characteristics of a pressure-sensitive silica diaphragm and silica glass, the laser welding of an all-silica Fabry–Perot (FP) interference optical fiber acoustic wave sensor with a CO2 laser is proposed. For understanding the influence of thermal expansion of sealing air in an FP cavity and the drift of interference-intensity demodulation working point of a FP interference acoustic wave sensor, we designed a process for the laser welding of an ultra-thin silica diaphragm and sleeve and optical fiber and sleeve. The exhaust hole of the FP cavity is reserved in the preparation process, and an amplified spontaneous emission light source and a tunable optical-fiber FP filter are introduced to stabilize the working point. The sensor is tested with a 40 kHz sound vibration signal. The results show that the sound pressure sensitivity of the sensor to an acoustic source of 0.02–0.1 W/cm2 is 6.59 mV/kPa. The linearity coefficient is 0.99975, indicating good linearity.
Effects of Blast Furnace Slag Powder and Limestone Powder on the Mechanical Properties and Durability of Shotcrete Using Monocalcium Aluminate Setting Accelerator
Authors: Kang Bonghee , Kim Gyuyong , Lee Taegyu , Koo Kyungmo , Lee Sangkyu , Son Minjae , Sasui Sasui , Eu Hamin
Published: March 2022

In this study, the effect of fine blast furnace slag powder (SP) and limestone powder (LSP) as a mineral admixture in shotcrete using monocalcium aluminate (CA) as a quick-setting accelerator was evaluated. The shotcrete was prepared with up to 25 wt.% substitutions of mineral admixture, i.e., (SP and LSP), and then the CA accelerator was incorporated by 5 wt.% of binders. To examine the optimal mixing ratio for mineral admixture in shotcrete, penetration resistance, compressive strength, XRD analysis, and MIP analysis were performed on the mortar. On the other hand, compressive strength test, chloride diffusion coefficient, and freeze–thaw resistance were conducted on concrete to evaluate the field applicability of shotcrete. The study revealed the addition of LSP improved setting time and early compressive strength while the addition of SP increased long-term compressive strength. With the addition of both SP and LSP, the early and long-term strength was increased due to the influence of the properties of each admixture. Furthermore, the addition of SP and LSP improves the resistance of shotcrete to chloride ions and freeze–thaw.
In Vitro Studies for Investigating Creep of Intervertebral Discs under Axial Compression: A Review of Testing Environment and Results
Authors: Yang Mengying , Xiang Dingding , Wang Song , Liu Weiqiang
Published: March 2022

Creep responses of intervertebral discs (IVDs) are essential for spinal biomechanics clarification. Yet, there still lacks a well-recognized investigation protocol for this phenomenon. Current work aims at providing researchers with an overview of the in vitro creep tests reported by previous studies, specifically specimen species, testing environment, loading regimes and major results, based on which a preliminary consensus that may guide future creep studies is proposed. Specimens used in creep studies can be simplified as a “bone–disc–bone” structure where three mathematical models can be adopted for describing IVDs’ responses. The preload of 10–50 N for 30 min or three cycles followed by 4 h-creep under constant compression is recommended for ex vivo simulation of physiological condition of long-time sitting or lying. It is worth noticing that species of specimens, environment temperature and humidity all have influences on biomechanical behaviors, and thus are summarized and compared through the literature review. All factors should be carefully set according to a guideline before tests are conducted to urge comparable results across studies. To this end, this review also provides a guideline, as mentioned before, and specific steps that might facilitate the community of biomechanics to obtain more repeatable and comparable results from both natural specimens and novel biomaterials.
Duplex Nucleation and Its Effect on the Grain Size and Properties of Near Eutectic Al-Si Alloys
Authors: Li Wenbo , Wu Yuying , Wu Yongjie , Li Yang , Ehti Amanisha , Liu Xiangfa
Published: March 2022

Duplex nucleation and its effect on the grain size and properties of near eutectic Al-Si alloys were investigated in this work. It is found that the grain size of Al-13Si-1Cu alloy can be greatly refined by addition of Al-2Ti-0.5B-0.5C and Al-P master alloys, and TiB2/AlP duplex nucleation was observed at the nuclei of primary silicon in the process of studying the refinement mechanism. TiB2 phase coated by Al co-existed with AlP in the nuclei of primary Si. The existence of Al phase should not only guarantee the promotion of TiB2 particles on the nucleation of AlP particles, but also made TiB2 particle stable in the core of primary silicon through the interaction with the Si phase. Duplex nucleation can not only affect the grain size of Al-Si alloy, but also effect of the distribution of strengthening phases in Al-Si alloy and improve the properties. Compared with single Al-P master alloy treatment, the tensile strength of Al-12Si-4Cu-2Ni-1Mg alloy after duplex nucleation treatment are improved obviously. The fatigue performance of Al-12Si-4Cu-2Ni-1Mg alloy is also improved significantly by the duplex nucleation.
Experimental Study on Ultrasonic-Assisted End Milling Forces in 2195 Aluminum-Lithium Alloy
Authors: Wang Hongtao , Zhang Shaolin , Li Guangxi
Published: March 2022

To achieve high-quality machining of the 2195 aluminum-lithium alloy, this paper presents an experimental study on the effect of milling processing parameters on milling forces and surface topography, during which conventional milling and longitudinal-torsional ultrasonic vibration milling of the 2195 Al-Li alloy were performed. The characterization of the tool tip trajectory illustrates some of the advantages of ultrasonic machining, which include variable depth of cut and tool chip pulling. The differences in milling forces between conventional milling and longitudinal-torsional ultrasonic vibration machining were compared using orthogonal tests, and the effect of ultrasonic vibration on milling forces was investigated in detail. The maximum reduction of milling force Fy in the feed direction under the influence of torsional vibration is 62% and 54% for larger feed per tooth and cutting depth, respectively. The high-frequency impact generated by the longitudinal vibration not only reduces the chip accumulation on the surface, but also smooths out the tool-tooth scratches and creates a regular surface profile. In addition, the characteristics of the milling force signals of the two machining methods were analyzed, and the analysis of the spectrum of the collected milling forces revealed that the ultrasonic vibration caused the high-frequency components of the milling forces Fy and Fz. The orthogonal result analysis and single-factor result analysis verified the superiority of ultrasonic machining, provided parameter selection for subsequent aluminum-lithium alloy machining, and bridged the gap of longitudinal torsional ultrasonic vibration machining of 2195 aluminum-lithium alloy in the study of milling force.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Composites Obtained by Spark Plasma Sintering of Ti3SiC2-15 vol.%Cu Mixtures
Authors: Zhang Rui , Chen Biao , Liu Fuyan , Sun Miao , Zhang Huiming , Wu Chenlong
Published: March 2022

Method of soft metal (Cu) strengthening of Ti3SiC2 was conducted to increase the hardness and improve the wear resistance of Ti3SiC2. Ti3SiC2/Cu composites containing 15 vol.% Cu were fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) in a vacuum. The effect of the sintering temperature on the phase composition, microstructure and mechanical properties of the composites was investigated in detail. The as-synthesized composites were thoroughly characterized by scanning electron micrography (SEM), optical micrography (OM) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD), respectively. The results indicated that the constituent of the Ti3SiC2/Cu composites sintered at different temperatures included Ti3SiC2, Cu3Si and TiC. The formation of Cu3Si and TiC originated from the reaction between Ti3SiC2 and Cu, which was induced by the presence of Cu and the de-intercalation of Si atoms Ti3SiC2. OM analysis showed that with the increase in the sintering temperature, the reaction between Ti3SiC2 and Cu was severe, leading to the Ti3SiC2 getting smaller and smaller. SEM measurements illustrated that the uniformity of the microstructure distribution of the composites was restricted by the agglomeration of Cu, controlling the mechanical behaviors of the composites. At 1000 °C, the distribution of Cu in the composites was relatively even; thus, the composites exhibited the highest density, relatively high hardness and compressive strength. The relationships of the temperature, the current and the axial dimension with the time during the sintering process were further discussed. Additionally, a schematic illustration was proposed to explain the related sintering characteristic of the composites sintered by SPS. The as-synthesized Ti3SiC2/Cu composites were expected to improve the wear resistance of polycrystalline Ti3SiC2.
Effect of Ho Addition on the Glass-Forming Ability and Crystallization Behaviors of Zr54Cu29Al10Ni7 Bulk Metallic Glass
Authors: Lu Shuaidan , Li Xiaoxiao , Liang Xiaoyu , He Jiahua , Shao Wenting , Li Kuanhe , Chen Jian
Published: March 2022

The effect of holmium (Ho) addition on the glass-forming ability (GFA) and crystallization behaviors of Zr54Cu29Al10Ni7 bulk metallic glass (BMGs) were studied by employing differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The characteristic temperatures and activation energies of crystallization were obtained from DSC data. Classical kinetic modes were used to evaluate the crystallization processes of Zr54Cu29Al10Ni7 and Zr48Cu29Ni7Al10Ho6 BMGs. The results showed that Ho addition reduces the activation energy in the original crystallization period of Zr-based BMG and improves the nucleation, which is due to the formation of simpler compounds, such as CuZr2, Cu2Ho, and Al3Zr5.
Validation of Nonlinear Dependence of Rolling Friction Moment on the Normal Force for Elastic Materials
Authors: Alaci Stelian , Ciornei Florina-Carmen , Romanu Ionut-Cristian
Published: March 2022

Analogous to the Amonton–Coulomb relation, which states the linear dependency between the dynamic sliding friction and the normal reaction, the rolling friction moment is commonly accepted as proportional to the normal reaction in a concentrated point contact. This hypothesis persists since it gives simple dynamic models and also due to difficulties met in experimental estimations of the rolling friction torques. Recent theoretical studies proved that this dependency is nonlinear even for elastic materials. A special rotor is designed, with an adjustable position for the center of mass but with constant mass and constant axial inertia moment. The pure rolling motion of the rotor on an inclined controlled small slope is studied. The angular acceleration of motion is theoretically deduced, assuming that the rolling friction torque is proportional to the normal force raised at a certain power. The deduced theoretical dynamic model evidences the influence of the eccentricity of the rotor upon the acceleration. For the particular case of linear dependency—the exponent of the power equal to one, the law of motion is independent of the configuration of the rotor. Experimental tests were made using the rotor constructed according to the theoretical model. For two positions of the center of mass, the experimental law of motion on the inclined plane is established by a non-contact method and the two different laws obtained to validate the nonlinear dependence rolling friction torque-normal force. The paper validates in an experimental manner the considered nonlinear assumption. The experimental tests concerning the microtopography of the contacting surfaces reveal that the hypothesis required by Hertzian theory, namely smooth contacting surfaces, is not satisfied. Thus, the distribution of pressure on the contact area does not obey the Hertzian semi-ellipsoidal distribution and further experimental tests are required for quantitative findings on the rolling friction torque-normal force relationship.
Intravenous Calcium Alginate Microspheres as Drug Delivery Vehicles in Acute Kidney Injury Treatment
Authors: Man Jia , Wang Xiaojie , Li Jianyong , Cui Xiaoyang , Hua Zesheng , Li Jianfeng , Mao Zebing , Zhang Shanguo
Published: March 2022

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and severe problem associated with high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. There are no reliable therapeutic interventions except dialysis that could improve survival, limit injury, or speed up recovery. Thus, it is essential to develop new therapies to treat AKI. Previous studies revealed that histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) could attenuate renal injury and enhance kidney recovery in AKI. However, the hydrophobic nature of HDACi, such as vorinostat (SAHA), requires organic solvents to promote its dissolution, leading to inevitable detrimental effects. Herein, calcium alginate microspheres (CAM) were prepared by the microfluidic method as HDACi carriers to treat AKI by intravenous injection. First, we designed the structure of the microfluidic channel for the fabrication of the PDMS microfluidic chip in which the emulsion state of droplets was analyzed. As the flow rate increases, the continuous phase changed from laminar flow to the dripping pattern in the microfluidic device. Then, the CAM was fabricated by a W/O microfluidic emulsion template and the size of the microspheres was adjusted from 3 to 7 μm by the concentration of alginate and the flow rate of the continuous phase and dispersal phase. The higher degree of cross-linking of sodium alginate with calcium ions would lead to longer drug release time but lower swelling rates. Furthermore, we selected CAM with suitable sizes as the HDACi carrier and delivered the HDACi-loaded CAM to the AKI mice by intravenous tail injection. The in vivo results showed that the HDACi-loaded CAM could effectively reduce the renal regional inflammatory response and attenuate renal injury.
Advances in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Siokas Vasileios , Dardiotis Efthimios
Published: March 2022

A multitude of diseases presenting a wide variety of phenotypic appearances are included in neurodegenerative disorders [...]
The Determination of a Consensus Nutritional Approach for Cancer Patients in Spain Using the Delphi Methodology
Authors: Suárez-Llanos José Pablo , Vera-García Ruth , Contreras-Martinez Jorge
Published: March 2022

Malnutrition has a multifactorial origin and can be caused by cancer. This study determined the consensus of a panel of experts on the nutritional approach for cancer patients in Spain using a multidisciplinary approach. Using the Delphi methodology, a 74-question questionnaire was prepared and sent to 46 experts. The areas of knowledge addressed were the nutritional status of the cancer patient, nutritional screening, nutritional therapy, patient referral, and multidisciplinary care. A total of 91.7% of the experts agreed with the questions posed on nutritional status, 60.0% with those on nutritional screening, 76.7% with those on nutritional therapy, and the entire panel of experts agreed with the questions posed on patient referral and multidisciplinary care. The experts agreed upon a high prevalence of malnutrition among cancer patients in Spain. Unlike medical and radiation oncologists, medical nutrition specialists believe that body composition assessment should not be carried out in all types of cancer patients during nutritional screening and that interventions can be conducted outside the oncology clinic. In general, it is recommended that nursing staff routinely perform nutritional screening before starting cancer treatment. It is necessary to develop a multidisciplinary action protocol that includes nutritional and/or sarcopenia screening.
Lipid Metabolism in Inflammation and Immune Function
Authors: Andersen Catherine J.
Published: March 2022

Lipid metabolism plays an essential role in modulating inflammation within the context of acute and chronic diseases [...]
The Neuroprotection of Verbascoside in Alzheimer’s Disease Mediated through Mitigation of Neuroinflammation via Blocking NF-κB-p65 Signaling
Authors: Chen Shanshan , Liu Honghan , Wang Shimiao , Jiang Hongbo , Gao Le , Wang Lu , Teng Lesheng , Wang Chunyue , Wang Di
Published: March 2022

Verbascoside (VB) is a phenylethanoid glycoside extracted from the herbaceous plant Verbascum sinuatum and plays a neuroprotective role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The goal of this study was to explore the neuroprotective mechanism of VB. Based on the proteomics analysis, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Western blot, and ELISA were utilized to explore the neuroprotective mechanism of VB in context of neuroinflammation in APP/PS1 mice, LPS-induced BV2 cells, and/or Aβ1-42-stimulated N2a cells. Proteomic analysis demonstrated that the neuroprotection of VB correlated closely to its anti-inflammatory effect. VB significantly blocked microglia and astrocyte against activation in brains of APP/PS1 mice, suppressed the generation of IL-1β as well as IL-6, and boosted that of IL-4, IL-10 and TGF-β in vivo, which were analogous to results acquired in vitro. Furthermore, VB effectively restrained the phosphorylation of IKKα+β, IκBα, and NF-κB-p65 in APP/PS1 mice; LPS-induced BV2 cells, and Aβ1-42-stimulated N2a cells and lowered the tendency of NF-κB-p65 translocation towards nucleus in vitro. These results demonstrate that the neuroprotective effect of VB correlates to the modulation of neuroinflammation via NF-κB-p65 pathway, making VB as a hopeful candidate drug for the prevention and treatment of AD.
Profile of Nucleotides in Chinese Mature Breast Milk from Six Regions
Authors: Yang Lutong , Guo Zhiheng , Yu Miao , Cai Xiaokun , Mao Yingyi , Tian Fang , Xu Wenhui , Liu Guoliang , Li Xiang , Zhao Yanrong , Xie Lin
Published: March 2022

This study measured the total potentially available nucleoside (TPAN) content in breast milk from six different regions of China as a part of the Maternal Nutrition and Infant Investigation (MUAI) study. A total of 631 breast milk samples were collected from healthy, lactating women with singleton, full-term pregnancies between 40 and 45 days postpartum in Changchun, Chengdu, Lanzhou, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Guangzhou. TPAN and free 5′-monophosphate nucleotide (5′-MNT) contents were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The TPAN content of the Chinese mature milk ranged from 11.61 mg/L to 111.09 mg/L, with a median level of 43.26 mg/L. Four types of nucleotides were identified, and the median levels of cytidine monophosphate (CMP), uridine monophosphate (UMP), guanosine monophosphate (GMP), and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) were 22.84 mg/L, 9.37 mg/L, 4.86 mg/L, and 4.80 mg/L, respectively. CMP was the predominant nucleotide, accounting for 52.9% of the TPAN content, while free 5′-MNT accounted for 18.38% of the TPAN content. The distribution pattern of the TPAN content and level of the individual nucleotides were significantly different among the selected regions (p < 0.05), but the result showed no significant differences in the TPAN level in breast milk (p > 0.05). In addition, no correlation was reported between the geographic distribution and TPAN levels. This result showed that TPAN better reflects the level of total potential nucleosides in Chinese breast milk rather than 5′-MNT in free form. CMP, UMP, GMP, and AMP are the only 4 types of nucleotides reported in all detections. In addition, results revealed a large variation of TPAN levels in Chinese breast milk across six regions, so that the median value may not be the optimal fortification level of TPAN for Chinese infant populations.
Resveratrol for Weight Loss in Obesity: An Assessment of Randomized Control Trial Designs in ClinicalTrials.gov
Authors: Hillsley Ashley , Chin Vanessa , Li Amy , McLachlan Craig S.
Published: March 2022

Resveratrol is a polyphenol that may improve weight loss outcomes in obese individuals. However, assessing the effectiveness of resveratrol supplementations as an appropriate intervention for weight loss in obesity across randomized control trials (RCTs) has been complicated by variability in their design. This study aims to evaluate design elements across RCTs of resveratrol interventions in obesity with weight loss as an end-point outcome, as recorded in ClinicalTrials.gov. We found discrepancies in participant inclusion criteria (sample size, age ranges, sex, BMI, medical conditions), interventional design (delivery modalities, dosages, duration) and primary outcomes measured (anthropomorphic, blood biomarkers). We identified a near three-fold variation in study sample size, two-fold variation in minimum inclusion age, five modalities of therapeutic resveratrol delivery with interventional durations ranging from two weeks to six months. Weight loss was only identified as a primary outcome in three of the seven studies evaluated. In conclusion, heterogeneity in trial design using resveratrol suggests that weight-loss-related outcomes are difficult to interpret and cross-validate. Indeed, conclusions drawn from human studies have been inconsistent, which may be attributed to study design heterogeneity including major differences in sample population, age, sex, BMI, underlying health conditions and end-point measures.
A Pilot Study on the Prevalence of Micronutrient Imbalances in a Dutch General Population Cohort and the Effects of a Digital Lifestyle Program
Authors: Castela Forte José , Gannamani Rahul , Folkertsma Pytrik , Kanthappu Saro , van Dam Sipko , Wolffenbuttel Bruce H. R.
Published: March 2022

Maintaining an adequate micronutrient status can be achieved by following a complete, diverse diet. Yet, food trends in Western countries show suboptimal consumption of healthy nutrients. In this study, we explored the prevalence of vitamin and mineral imbalances in a general population cohort of Dutch adults and evaluated the effect of a digital lifestyle program on the nutritional status and nutrition health behaviors of these individuals. A micronutrient panel was measured in 348 participants, alongside a dietary assessment. One hundred users subsequently underwent a remeasurement. We identified at least one nutritional imbalance in 301 individuals (86.5%). A total of 80% improved and normalized B6, 67% improved folate, 70% improved B12, and 86% improved vitamin D. Iron abnormalities were corrected in 75% of the participants. In conclusion, this study found that micronutrient deficiencies of easily obtainable vitamins through diet or supplementation such as B vitamins and vitamin D were more prevalent than expected in a Dutch population. This can partly be explained by insufficient consumption of food groups rich in B vitamins. Our preliminary results in those remeasured after a digitally enabled lifestyle intervention show these imbalances can be corrected with adequate behavioral support complemented with supplementation where needed.
Effect of Beta 2-Adrenergic Receptor Gly16Arg Polymorphism on Taste Preferences in Healthy Young Japanese Adults
Authors: Narita Kohei , Kudo Tada-aki , Hong Guang , Tominami Kanako , Izumi Satoshi , Hayashi Yohei , Nakai Junichi
Published: March 2022

The Gly16Arg polymorphism results in a G to C nucleotide mutation in the human beta 2-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) gene and has a relationship with obesity; however, this substitution’s effects on food preferences are unclear. Therefore, we determined this relationship among healthy young adults (mean age, 23.4; n = 52). To evaluate food preferences, four categories of food (sweet, salty, sour, and bitter) along with high-fat foods were evaluated using a self-reporting questionnaire. Male (n = 26) and female subjects (n = 26) were genotyped for the polymorphism and further divided into three groups (two homozygous groups, GG, CC; and a heterozygous group, GC). Preference for sour foods in the GG group was higher compared with that in the CC group in females (p < 0.05). When sweet foods were classified into low- and high-fat subgroups, preference for high-fat sweet foods in the GG group was higher than that for low-fat sweet foods in all subjects (p < 0.05). The degree of preference for high-fat foods in the GG group was higher than other groups for males (p < 0.05). These results suggest that ADRB2 polymorphism is associated with food preference. Understanding the relationship of ADRB2 substitution to food preference will be valuable for designing individualized anti-obesity strategies.
Studies on Preformulation and Formulation of JIN-001 Liquisolid Tablet with Enhanced Solubility
Authors: Kim Han-Sol , Kim Chang-Min , Jo An-Na , Kim Joo-Eun
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to develop a heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) inhibitor liquisolid tablet with improved solubility to overcome low bioavailability issues. As an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), JIN-001, a novel Hsp90 inhibitor, was reported to have substantial in vitro antiproliferative and in vivo antitumor activity; however, JIN-001 was a crystalline solid with very low solubility in an aqueous solution, and therefore, Capryol 90, which has excellent solubilization ability, was selected as an optimal liquid vehicle based on solubility studies. JIN-001 liquisolid (JLS) powder was successfully prepared by dissolving JIN-001 in Capryol 90 and mixing colloidal silicon dioxide (CSD) used as an oil adsorption agent. The prepared JLS was confirmed to be amorphous. Based on the result of the solubility test of JLS, compared to JIN-001, the solubility of the former was significantly improved in all solvents regardless of pH. JLS tablets were prepared through wet granulation using JIN-001 and stable excipients based on the compatibility test. The developed JLS tablet significantly increased the drug release rate in all tested solutions; however, the liquisolid method had no significant effect on bioavailability in the pharmacokinetics study in beagle dogs. In conclusion, the liquisolid system influenced the solubility and dissolution rate of JIN-001.
Integrating Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Approaches to Decipher the Multi-Target Pharmacological Mechanism of Abrus precatorius L. Acting on Diabetes
Authors: Noor Fatima , Rehman Abdur , Ashfaq Usman Ali , Saleem Muhammad Hamzah , Okla Mohammad K. , Al-Hashimi Abdulrahman , AbdElgawad Hamada , Aslam Sidra
Published: March 2022

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a notable health care load that imposes a serious impact on the quality of life of patients. The small amount of reported data and multiple spectra of pathophysiological mechanisms of T2DM make it a challenging task and serious economic burden in health care management. Abrus precatorius L. is a slender, perennial, deciduous, and woody twining plant used in various regions of Asia to treat a variety of ailments, including diabetes mellitus. Various in vitro studies revealed the therapeutic significance of A. precatorius against diabetes. However, the exact molecular mechanism remains unclarified. In the present study, a network pharmacology technique was employed to uncover the active ingredients, their potential targets, and signaling pathways in A. precatorius for the treatment of T2DM. In the framework of this study, we explored the active ingredient–target–pathway network and figured out that abrectorin, abrusin, abrisapogenol J, sophoradiol, cholanoic acid, precatorine, and cycloartenol decisively contributed to the development of T2DM by affecting AKT1, MAPK3, TNFalpha, and MAPK1 genes. Later, molecular docking was employed to validate the successful activity of the active compounds against potential targets. Lastly, we conclude that four highly active constituents, namely, abrusin, abrisapogenol J, precatorine, and cycloartenol, help in improving the body’s sensitivity to insulin and regulate the expression of AKT1, MAPK3, TNFalpha, and MAPK1, which may act as potential therapeutic targets of T2DM. Integrated network pharmacology and docking analysis revealed that A. precatorius exerted a promising preventive effect on T2DM by acting on diabetes-associated signaling pathways. This provides a basis to understand the mechanism of the anti-diabetes activity of A. precatorius.
New Aspects Concerning the Ampicillin Photodegradation
Authors: Cercel Radu , Paraschiv Mirela , Florica Cristina Stefania , Daescu Monica , Udrescu Adelina , Ciobanu Romeo C. , Schreiner Cristina , Baibarac Mihaela
Published: March 2022

New aspects concerning the photodegradation (PD) of ampicillin are reported by photoluminescence (PL), Raman scattering and FTIR spectroscopy. The exposure of ampicillin in the absence (AM) and in the presence of the excipient (AMP) to UV light leads to an intensity diminution of the photoluminescence excitation (PLE) and photoluminescence (PL) spectra and the emergence of a new IR band at 3450 cm−1. The photoluminescence studies demonstrate that the AM PD is amplified in the presence of excipients and an alkaline medium. In this last case, the PD process of AM involves the emergence of new compounds, whose presence is highlighted by: (i) the emergence of the isosbestic point at 300 nm in the UV-VIS spectra; (ii) a change in the ratio between the absorbance of IR bands situated in the spectral ranges 1200–1660 and 3250–3450 cm−1; and (iii) a change in the ratio between the intensities of the Raman lines localized in the spectral ranges 1050–1800 and 2750–3100 cm−1. A chemical mechanism of the PD processes of AM in an alkaline medium is proposed.
Preparation of Aditoprim Injection against Streptococcus suis in Pigs and a Dose Regimen Based on Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Modeling
Authors: Qu Wei , Dong Mengxiao , Pan Yuanhu , Xie Shuyu , Yuan Zonghui , Huang Lingli
Published: March 2022

In order to effectively treat the infection of Streptococcus suis and reduce the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria, an aditoprim (ADP) injection was developed in this study. The pharmaceutical property investigation results demonstrated that ADP injection was a clear yellow liquid with 10 g ADP distributing in every 100 mL solution uniformly. Its pH value and drug content were around 6.20 and 99.35~100.40%, respectively. And quality assessment preliminarily indicated its reliable quality and stability. Additionally, the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid method was first applied to evaluate accurate ADP concentration at infection site in this study. Through pharmacodynamic assay, the MIC, MBC and MPC of ADP against Streptococcus suis CVCC 607 was 2 μg/mL, 4 μg/mL and 12.8 μg/mL, respectively. The bacteria growth inhibition curves showed that ADP was a concentration-dependent antibacterial drug, and the PK-PD model parameter of AUC/MIC was selected. The pharmacokinetic parameters of alveolar fluid evaluated by WinNonlin software revealed similar pharmacokinetic process of ADP in healthy pigs and infected pigs. Combined with pharmacokinetics-pharmacodynamics (PK-PD) modeling, the dosage regimen of 3~5 days with an interval of 12 h at 4.10 mg/kg or 5.91 mg/kg could be adopted to treat the infection of Streptococcus suis. Consequently, this ADP injection with a multi-dose protocol would be a promising antimicrobial product for efficient treatment of S. suis infection of pigs.