bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Shewanella xiamenensis Placed on Zeolite in Treatment of Silver-Containing Effluents
Authors: Zinicovscaia Inga , Yushin Nikita , Grozdov Dmitrii , Safonov Alexey
Published: January 2023

The adsorption properties of Shewanella xiamenensis immobilized on zeolite have been evaluated in order to determine its applicability for remediation of silver-containing effluents with different chemical composition. The effects of pH (2.0–6.0), contact time (15–150 min), silver concentration (10–100 mg/L) and temperature (20–50 °C) on the bio-zeolite adsorption efficiency were investigated in batch experiments. The optimal pH for metal ions removal was in the range of 4.0–6.0, while the time required to attained equilibrium lay between 60 and 150 min. The adsorption of silver was described by a pseudo-second-order kinetic model in Ag- and Ag-Cu-Ni-Zn systems, while in Ag-Cu systems, it fitted well the pseudo-first-order kinetic model. The maximum adsorption capacities of silver on bio-zeolite calculated from the Langmuir model were 14.8 mg/g (Ag system), 32.5 mg/g (Ag-Cu system) and 12.8 mg/g (Ag-Cu-Ni-Zn system). The thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption of metal ions onto bio-zeolite was a spontaneous entropy-driven process.
Applied Methodological Approach for the Assessment of Soil Contamination by Trace Elements around Abandoned Coal Mines—A Case Study of the Jerada Coal Mine, Morocco
Authors: Khalil Abdessamad , Taha Yassine , Benzaazoua Mostafa , Hakkou Rachid
Published: January 2023

Previously conducted studies have established that soil contamination by trace elements (TEs) around coal mines affects ecological biodiversity and human health. One of the ways to protect the health of the surrounding population of coal mine sites is through the assessment of contamination impacts by accurate procedures for the establishment of relevant reclamation plan. The aim of the study is to develop an applied methodological approach to easily assess and quantify the impact of coal mining on the surrounding soils. To achieve this goal, a set of relevant geochemical indexes (enrichment factor—EF, geochemical background—GB, and geoaccumulation index—Igeo) and a geostatistical interpolation for mapping soil contamination were applied. It is experimentally established that the process of combining these techniques can be of great interest in highlighting the anomalous areas and revealing the contamination sources. A case study has been carried out on of the abandoned coal Jerada mine site in Morocco. Soils and coal mine waste rocks (CMWR) samples were collected from this site. Soil and CMWR samples were analyzed for their geochemical content. CMWRs were characterized further for their mineralogical composition and environmental behavior. Based on the EF, three TEs (As, Pb, and Zn) were targeted. The results of GB and Igeo calculations have established an evident relationship between the CMWR dump and the occurred soil contamination. TEs distribution pattern has been revealed using the obtained geochemical maps. The developed methodological approach may be in high demand when assessing soil contamination in most of abandoned coal mine sites around the word.
Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) for the Detection of Rare Earth Elements (REEs) in Meteorites
Authors: Harikrishnan Surya , Ananthachar Adarsh , Choudhari Khoobaram S. , George Sajan Daniel , Chidangil Santhosh , Unnikrishnan V. K.
Published: January 2023

The spectroscopic characterization of plasma generated in meteorite samples during Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) shows the emission spectrum of elements present and also allows one to rapidly identify the elemental composition without any sample preparation and with good accuracy compared to some other methods. In addition, LIBS has other advantages, such as multi-elemental response, micro–nano gram level of destructiveness and portability of the instrument. Since the presence of Rare Earth Elements (REEs) in meteorites is usually in trace levels or not at all, LIBS can be used as a potential alternative method for the meteorite fragment analysis which, in turn, gives valuable clues on its origin as well as the origin of the solar system and its impact on life on Earth, particularly on the presence of REEs. The elemental analysis results for a few of the selected samples, such as iron meteorites, lunar meteorites, eucrites and impact glass, are presented and discussed. The LIBS analysis was supplemented by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with which it was possible to classify the samples into different classes according to their chief constituents, structure and origin.
Riverine Particulate Matter Enhances the Growth and Viability of the Marine Diatom Thalassiosira weissflogii
Authors: Grimm Christian , Feurtet-Mazel Agnès , Pokrovsky Oleg S. , Oelkers Eric H.
Published: January 2023

Riverine particulates dominate the transport of vital nutrients such as Si, Fe or P to the ocean margins, where they may increase primary production by acting as slow-release fertilizer. Furthermore, the supply of particulate surface area to the ocean is considered to be a major control of organic carbon burial. Taken together, these observations suggest a close link between the supply of riverine particulate material and the organic carbon cycle. To explore this link, we conducted microcosm experiments to measure the growth of the marine diatom Thalassiosira weissflogii in the presence and absence of different types and concentrations of riverine particulate material. Results demonstrate a strong positive effect of riverine particulate material on diatom growth with increased total diatom concentrations and slowed post-exponential death rates with increasing particulate concentration. Moreover, SEM and optical microscope investigations confirm that riverine particulates facilitate organic carbon burial through their role in the aggregation and sedimentation of phytoplankton. The supply of riverine particulate material has been shown to be markedly climate sensitive with their fluxes increasing dramatically with increasing global temperature and runoff. This pronounced climate sensitivity implies that riverine particulates contribute substantially in regulating atmospheric CO2 concentrations through their role in the organic carbon cycle.
Simultaneous Determination of Orelabrutinib, Zanubrutinib, Ibrutinib and Its Active Metabolite in Human Plasma Using LC-MS/MS
Authors: Sun Lu-Ning , Zhao Yang , Qian Zhou-Yi , Chen Xiang-Long , Ma Hong , Guo Yu-Jiao , Shen Hao , Wang Yong-Qing
Published: January 2023

Ibrutinib, orelabrutinib, and zanubrutinib are all Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which have greatly improved the treatment of B-cell malignancies. In this study, an LC-MS/MS method was developed and validated for the determination of orelabrutinib, zanubrutinib, ibrutinib, and its active metabolite dihydrodiol ibrutinib in human plasma. The Ibrutinib-d5 was used as the internal standard. Pretreatment was performed using a simple protein precipitation step using acetonitrile. The ACQUITY UPLC HSS T3 column (2.1×50 mm, 1.8 μm) was used to separate the analytes, and the run time was 6.5 min. The mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile and 10 mM of ammonium formate, which contained 0.1% formic acid. The multiple reactions’ monitoring transitions were selected at m/z 428.1→411.2, 472.2→455.2, 441.1→304.2, 475.2→304.2 and 446.2→309.2 respectively for orelabrutinib, zanubrutinib, ibrutinib, dihydrodiol ibrutinib and ibrutinib-d5 using positive ion electrospray ionization. The standard curves were linear, from 0.400 to 200 ng/mL for ibrutinib and dihydrodiol ibrutinib, 1.00–500 ng/mL for orelabrutinib, and 2.00–1000 ng/mL for zanubrutinib. Selectivity, the lower limit of quantitation, precision, accuracy, matrix effect, recovery, stability, and dilution integrity all met the acceptance criteria of FDA guidance. This method was used to quantify the plasma levels of orelabrutinib, zanubrutinib, ibrutinib, and dihydrodiol ibrutinib in clinical patients.
New Succinimide–Thiazolidinedione Hybrids as Multitarget Antidiabetic Agents: Design, Synthesis, Bioevaluation, and Molecular Modelling Studies
Authors: Huneif Mohammed A. , Mahnashi Mater H. , Jan Muhammad Saeed , Shah Muhammad , Almedhesh Sultan A. , Alqahtani Seham M. , Alzahrani Mohammad Jamaan , Ayaz Muhammad , Ullah Farhat , Rashid Umer , Sadiq Abdul
Published: January 2023

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder majorly arising from the pathophysiology of the pancreas manifested as a decline in the insulin production or the tissue’s resistance to the insulin. In this research, we have rationally designed and synthesized new succinimide–thiazolidinedione hybrids for the management of DM. In a multistep reaction, we were able to synthesize five new derivatives (10a–e). All the compounds were new containing a different substitution pattern on the N-atom of the succinimide ring. Initially, all the compounds were tested against the in vitro α-glucosidase, α-amylase, PTP1B, and DPP4 targets. In all of these targets, the compound 10d was observed to be the most potential antidiabetic agent. Based on this, the antidiabetic activity of the compound 10d was further investigated in experimental animals, which overall gave us encouraging results. The molecular docking studies of the compound 10d was also performed against the target enzymes α-glucosidase, α-amylase, PTP1B, and DPP4 using MOE. Overall, we observed that we have explored a new class of compounds as potential antidiabetic agents.
Biodiversity, Biochemical Profiling, and Pharmaco-Commercial Applications of Withania somnifera: A Review
Authors: Gaurav Harshita , Yadav Divyanshu , Maurya Ankita , Yadav Himanshu , Yadav Ramanand , Shukla Amritesh Chandra , Sharma Minaxi , Gupta Vijai Kumar , Palazon Javier
Published: January 2023

Withania somnifera L. Dunal (Ashwagandha), a key medicinal plant native to India, is used globally to manage various ailments. This review focuses on the traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological advances of its plant-derived constituents. It has been reported that at least 62 crucial and 48 inferior primary and secondary metabolites are present in the W. somnifera leaves, and 29 among these found in its roots and leaves are chiefly steroidal compounds, steroidal lactones, alkaloids, amino acids, etc. In addition, the whole shrub parts possess various medicinal activities such as anti-leukotriene, antineoplastic, analgesic, anti-oxidant, immunostimulatory, and rejuvenating properties, mainly observed by in vitro demonstration. However, the course of its medical use remains unknown. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of W. somnifera, which will be useful for mechanism studies and potential medical applications of W. somnifera, as well as for the development of a rational quality control system for W. somnifera as a therapeutic material in the future.
Cagelike Octacopper Methylsilsesquioxanes: Self-Assembly in the Focus of Alkaline Metal Ion Influence—Synthesis, Structure, and Catalytic Activity
Authors: Bilyachenko Alexey N. , Arteev Ivan S. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Zueva Anna Y. , Shul’pina Lidia S. , Shubina Elena S. , Ikonnikov Nikolay S. , Shul’pin Georgiy B.
Published: January 2023

A family of unusual octacopper cage methylsilsesquioxanes 1–4 were prepared and characterized. Features of their cagelike (prismatic) structure were established using X-ray diffraction studies. Effects of distortion of prismatic cages 1–4 due to variation of (i) additional alkaline metal ions (K, Rb, or Cs), (ii) combination of solvating ligands, and (iii) nature of encapsulating species were found. Opportunities for the design of supramolecular 1D extended structures were found. These opportunities are based on (i) formate linkers between copper centers (in the case of Cu8K2-based compound 2) or (ii) crown ether-like contacts between cesium ions and siloxane cycles (in the case of Cu8Cs2-based compound 4). Cu8Cs2-complex 4 was evaluated in the catalysis of alkanes and alcohols. Complex 4 exhibits high catalytic activity. The yield of cyclohexane oxidation products is 35%. The presence of nitric acid is necessary as a co-catalyst. The oxidation of alcohols with the participation of complex 4 as a catalyst and tert-butyl hydroperoxide as an oxidizer also proceeds in high yields of up to 98%.
Density Functional Study to Investigate the Ability of (ZnS)n (n = 1–12) Clusters Removing Hg0, HgCl, and HgCl2 via Electron Localization Function and Non−Covalent Interactions Analyses
Authors: Tian Zhimei , Song Chongfu , Wu Hai
Published: January 2023

In this study, the density functional theory is used to study the ability of (ZnS)n clusters to remove Hg0, HgCl, and HgCl2 and reveals that they can be absorbed on (ZnS)n clusters. According to electron localization function (ELF) and non−covalent interactions (NCI) analyses, the adsorption of Hg0 on (ZnS)n is physical adsorption and the adsorption ability of (ZnS)n for removing Hg0 is weak. When (ZnS)n adsorbs HgCl and HgCl2, two new Hg−S and Zn−Cl bonds form in the resultant clusters. An ELF analysis identifies the formation of Hg−S and Zn−Cl bonds in (ZnS)nHgCl and (ZnS)nHgCl2. A partial density of states and charge analysis confirm that as Hg0, HgCl, and HgCl2 approach (ZnS)n clusters, atomic orbitals in Hg and Zn, Hg and S, as well as Zn and Cl overlap and hybridize. Adsorption energies of HgCl and HgCl2 on (ZnS)n clusters are obviously bigger than those of Hg0, indicating that HgCl and HgCl2 adsorption on (ZnS)n clusters is much stronger than that of Hg0. By combining ELF analysis, NCI analysis, and adsorption energies, the adsorption of HgCl, and HgCl2 on (ZnS)n clusters can be classified as chemical adsorption. The adsorption ability of (ZnS)n clusters for removing HgCl and HgCl2 is higher than that of Hg0.
Snail Slime Extracted by a Cruelty Free Method Preserves Viability and Controls Inflammation Occurrence: A Focus on Fibroblasts
Authors: Ricci Alessia , Gallorini Marialucia , Feghali Nadine , Sampò Simone , Cataldi Amelia , Zara Susi
Published: January 2023

Snail slime (SS) is a viscous secretion obtained from different snail species. SS composition is variable according to factors such as the extraction method. Even if several papers have been published regarding this topic, the molecular mechanisms at the base of SS biological effects remain unexplored. Thus, the aim of this study is to evaluate the capability of SS, extracted with the cruelty-free Muller method, to promote viability and angiogenesis processes and, in parallel, to counteract inflammation occurrence on skin cell populations. SS was administered to keratinocytes, macrophages and fibroblasts, then cell viability, through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test, cytotoxicity by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, morphology by haematoxylin-eosin staining, gene and protein expression through real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot, cell cycle phases by flow cytometry, and collagen secretion using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test, were measured. Our results evidence SS capability to promote fibroblast viability and to trigger recovery mechanisms by activating the Erk protein. Moreover, an appreciable anti-inflammatory effect due to the significant reduction in cyclooxygenase-2 expression, and a positive modulation of new blood vessel formation demonstrated by increased Angiopoietin 1 gene expression and a higher matrix deposition (evidenced by the augmented amount of released collagen I) can be identified. This evidence led us to assume that the Muller method extracted-SS represents a valuable and promising natural product suitable for cosmetic and skin care formulations.
Role of MWCNTs Loading in Designing Self-Sensing and Self-Heating Structural Elements
Authors: Guadagno Liberata , Longo Raffaele , Aliberti Francesca , Lamberti Patrizia , Tucci Vincenzo , Pantani Roberto , Spinelli Giovanni , Catauro Michelina , Vertuccio Luigi
Published: January 2023

This work proposes nanocomposites with carbon nanotubes characterized by self-sensing and self-heating properties. Recently, a growing interest in these two properties has been found in many industrial sectors, especially in the aerospace and automotive fields. While the self-sensing function allows diagnosing the presence of micro-damage in the material thanks to the detection of residual resistance, the self-heating function is exploited to properly tune the heating performance in terms of the heating rate and final temperature values. An electrical percolation value of around 0.5% by weight of carbon nanotubes was found by electrical characterization. The AC conductivity of the nanocomposites, in the range of 100 Hz to 1 MHz, evidences that beyond a CNTs amount of 0.5% wt/wt, they are characterized by a purely resistive behavior. The self-sensing analysis displayed a gauge factor value of 4.1. The solid thermal stability up to 300 °C makes the material suitable as a heating element at high temperatures. SEM investigations and temperature maps evidence a good dispersion of the conductive filler in the epoxy matrix and, consequently, good isotropy in heat distribution. As regards the trend of electrical resistance by varying the temperature, the electro-thermal investigation has shown the presence of both Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) and Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) behaviors with a predominance of NTC as soon as the temperature becomes closer to the glass transition temperature of the epoxy resin.
Microfluidic Fabrication of Gadolinium-Doped Hydroxyapatite for Theragnostic Applications
Authors: Somoza Manuel , Rial Ramón , Liu Zhen , Llovo Iago F. , Reis Rui L. , Mosqueira Jesús , Ruso Juan M.
Published: January 2023

Among the several possible uses of nanoparticulated systems in biomedicine, their potential as theragnostic agents has received significant interest in recent times. In this work, we have taken advantage of the medical applications of Gadolinium as a contrast agent with the versatility and huge array of possibilities that microfluidics can help to create doped Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles with magnetic properties in an efficient and functional way. First, with the help of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), we performed a complete and precise study of all the elements and phases of our device to guarantee that our microfluidic system worked in the laminar regime and was not affected by the presence of nanoparticles through the flow requisite that is essential to guarantee homogeneous diffusion between the elements or phases in play. Then the obtained biomaterials were physiochemically characterized by means of XRD, FE-SEM, EDX, confocal Raman microscopy, and FT-IR, confirming the successful incorporation of the lanthanide element Gadolinium in part of the Ca (II) binding sites. Finally, the magnetic characterization confirmed the paramagnetic behaviour of the nanoparticles, demonstrating that, with a simple and automatized system, it is possible to obtain advanced nanomaterials that can offer a promising and innovative solution in theragnostic applications.
Radiolabeled Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as Dual Modality Contrast Agents in SPECT/MRI and PET/MRI
Authors: Karageorgou Maria-Argyro , Bouziotis Penelope , Stiliaris Efstathios , Stamopoulos Dimosthenis
Published: January 2023

During the last decades, the utilization of imaging modalities such as single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in every day clinical practice has enabled clinicians to diagnose diseases accurately at early stages. Radiolabeled iron oxide nanoparticles (RIONs) combine their intrinsic magnetic behavior with the extrinsic character of the radionuclide additive, so that they constitute a platform of multifaceted physical properties. Thus, at a practical level, RIONs serve as the physical parent of the so-called dual-modality contrast agents (DMCAs) utilized in SPECT/MRI and PET/MRI applications due to their ability to combine, at real time, the high sensitivity of SPECT or PET together with the high spatial resolution of MRI. This review focuses on the synthesis and in vivo investigation of both biodistribution and imaging efficacy of RIONs as potential SPECT/MRI or PET/MRI DMCAs.
Breakfast Size and Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) Spanish Cohort
Authors: Lujan-Barroso Leila , Iglesias Lucia , Zamora-Ros Raúl , Lasheras Cristina , Sánchez María-José , Cabrera-Castro Natalia , Delfrad Josu , Amiano Pilar , Molina-Montes Esther , Colorado-Yohar Sandra , Moreno-Iribas Conchi , Dorronsoro Ane , Rodríguez-Barranco Miguel , Chirlaque María Dolores , Aizpurua Amaia , Agudo Antonio , Quirós José Ramón , Jakszyn Paula
Published: January 2023

Background: Recent evidence suggest that energy distribution during the daytimecould be a potential determinant for the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Objective: To cross-sectionally assess the association between breakfast size and the prevalence of MetS in Spanish adults. Methods: Our study included a subset of 3644 participants from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition Spain study recontacted between 2017–2018. Information on diet, sociodemographic, lifestyle, sleep quality, and chronotype was collected using standardized questionnaires, while anthropometric and blood pressure data were measured in a face-to-face personal interview by a nurse. MetS was defined according to the Adult Treatment Panel III (ATPIII) definition by measuring serum levels of total cholesterol, tryglycerides and glucose. Breakfast size was calculated as: (energy from breakfast/total energy intake) * 2000 kcal. To evaluate the association between breakfast size and MetS prevalence, a multivariable logistic regression model adjusted by potential confounders was used to estimate OR and 95% CI. Results: Prevalence of MetS in our study was 40.7%. The mean breakfast size was 306.6 * 2000 kcal (15% of the total daily energy intake), with 14 (0.4%) participants skipping breakfast. Participants in the highest quartile of breakfast size had a lower MetS prevalence compared to participants in the lowest quartile (ORQ4vsQ1 = 0.62; 95% CI = 0.51–0.76; p-trend < 0.001). No modification of the estimated ORs by sex, breakfast time, and number of eating occasions per day were observed. Conclusion: Our results suggest that higher breakfast size is associated with lower prevalence of MetS in Spanish adults, supporting the importance of a high energy breakfast. Further prospective studies are necessary to confirm these findings.
miRNAs and Alzheimer’s Disease: Exploring the Role of Inflammation and Vitamin E in an Old-Age Population
Authors: Boccardi Virginia , Poli Giulia , Cecchetti Roberta , Bastiani Patrizia , Scamosci Michela , Febo Marta , Mazzon Emanuela , Bruscoli Stefano , Brancorsini Stefano , Mecocci Patrizia
Published: January 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most frequent cause of dementia worldwide and represents one of the leading factors for severe disability in older persons. Although its etiology is not fully known yet, AD may develop due to multiple factors, including inflammation and oxidative stress, conditions where microRNAs (miRNAs) seem to play a pivotal role as a molecular switch. All these aspects may be modulated by nutritional factors. Among them, vitamin E has been widely studied in AD, given the plausibility of its various biological functions in influencing neurodegeneration. From a cohort of old-aged people, we measured eight vitamin E forms (tocopherols and tocotrienols), thirty cytokines/chemokines, and thirteen exosome-extracted miRNAs in plasma of subjects suffering from subjects affected by AD and age-matched healthy controls (HC). The sample population included 80 subjects (40 AD and 40 HC) with a mean age of 77.6 ± 3.8 years, mostly women (45; 56.2%). Of the vitamin E forms, only α-tocopherol differed between groups, with significantly lower levels in AD. Regarding the examined inflammatory molecules, G-CSF, GM-CSF, INF-α2, IL-3, and IL-8 were significantly higher and IL-17 lower in AD than HC. Among all miRNAs examined, AD showed downregulation of miR-9, miR-21, miR29-b, miR-122, and miR-132 compared to controls. MiR-122 positively and significantly correlated with some inflammatory molecules (GM-CSF, INF-α2, IL-1α, IL-8, and MIP-1β) as well as with α-tocopherol even after correction for age and gender. A final binary logistic regression analysis showed that α-tocopherol serum levels were associated with a higher AD probability and partially mediated by miR-122. Our results suggest an interplay between α-tocopherol, inflammatory molecules, and microRNAs in AD, where miR-122 may be a good candidate as modulating factor.
Canadians Adults Fail Their Dietary Quality Examination Twice
Authors: Ngueta Gerard , Blanchette Caty , Mondor Myrto , Moubarac Jean-Claude , Lucas Michel
Published: January 2023

For many years, dietary quality among Canadians has been assessed using an index that gives criticized scores and does not allow for comparison with Americans. In Canadians aged ≥19 years, we aimed to (1) determine the dietary quality by using a more widely used evidence-based index that has shown associations with health outcomes, the alternative Healthy Eating Index (aHEI-2010); (2) assess changes in aHEI-2010 score and its components between 2004 and 2015; and (3) identify factors associated with aHEI-2010 score. We relied on the Canadian Community Health Survey 2004 (n = 35,107) and 2015 (n = 20,487). We used adjusted linear models with a time effect to compare the total aHEI-2010 score and its components. The overall aHEI-2010 score increased from 36.5 (95%CI: 36.2–36.8) in 2004 to 39.0 (95%CI: 38.5–39.4) in 2015 (p < 0.0001). Participants with less than a high school diploma showed the lowest score and no improvement from 2004 to 2015 (34.8 vs. 35.3, p = 0.4864). In each period, higher scores were noted among immigrants than non-immigrants (38.3 vs. 35.9 in 2004, p < 0.0001; 40.5 vs. 38.5 in 2015 p < 0.0001), and lower scores were observed in current smokers (33.4 vs. 37.1 in 2004, p < 0.0001; 34.5 vs. 39.9 in 2015, p < 0.0001). The use of the aHEI-2010 tool suggests a lower score among Canadians than the previous index, more comparable to the score among Americans.
Saturated Fatty Acids Consumed in Smoothies Increase Glucose and Metabolic Load Index in Young Adults Compared to Polyunsaturated Omega-3-Fatty Acids
Authors: Kurti Stephanie P. , Wisseman Breanna L. , Akers Jeremy D. , Edwards Elizabeth S.
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Chronic diets high in saturated fat (SF) and omega-6-fatty acids (O6FAs) elevate fasting triglycerides (TRGs) and glucose (GLU). Postprandial TRGs, GLU, and Metabolic Load Index (MLI) are better predictors of disease risk compared to fasting levels alone. Conversely, diets high in omega-3 fatty acids (O3FAs) may be cardioprotective. Unfortunately, many existing postprandial studies are not standardized to body weight and given in an amount individuals would typically consume in their daily lives; the MLI is not calculated, and varying types of fat content are not examined. Therefore, we sought to determine whether SF, O3FAs, or O6FAs altered postprandial TRGs, GLU, and MLI from a standardized mixed meal. Methods: Fifteen individuals (6 M and 9 F) visited the laboratory three times, separated by at least 48 h, to consume HFM smoothies with varying FA composition (SF, high O6FAs, and high O3FAs). The smoothies were standardized to 12 kcal/kg body weight, 63% total fat, and 0.72 g/kg sugar. TRGs and GLU were collected at baseline and at 2 h and 4 h postprandially; the MLI was calculated by summing the TRG and GLU responses at each time point. Results: There was a significant increase in TRGs across time points (p < 0.001). For TRGs, there was a trend toward a significant interaction between smoothie type and time (p = 0.06) due to the increase in TRGs in the SF compared to the O3FA smoothie. There was an increase in postprandial GLU that varied across smoothie types (p = 0.036). Taken together, the MLI was elevated in the SF smoothie compared to the O3FAs at 2 h (p = 0.041). Conclusion: A SF smoothie in the morning elevated the metabolic load compared to an O3FA smoothie. Mechanisms of action in the competing clearance of TRGs and GLU warrant further investigation.
Pathogen-Specific Benefits of Probiotic and Synbiotic Use in Childhood Acute Gastroenteritis: An Updated Review of the Literature
Authors: Săsăran Maria Oana , Mărginean Cristina Oana , Adumitrăchioaiei Heidrun , Meliț Lorena Elena
Published: January 2023

Probiotics represent viable microorganisms which are found within the normal gut microbiota, that exert strain-specific benefits in the management of several gastrointestinal disorders in children, including acute gastroenteritis. This review aims to evaluate the pathogen-specific role of probiotic supplementation in childhood diarrhea. A search of scientific databases was conducted to identify studies which investigated efficacy of probiotics and synbiotics in influencing outcome of acute gastroenteritis of known etiology. We identified 32 studies, most of which analyzed impact of probiotic supplementation in rotavirus gastroenteritis, while a very limited number of these conducted a separate analysis on bacterial diarrhea. Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus), L. reuteri and S. boulardii still remain the most researched strains, with a proven role in decreasing diarrhea and hospitalization duration, especially in the setting of rotavirus infection. Combined products containing at least one of the aforementioned strains also performed similarly and might also influence rotavirus fecal shedding. Rotavirus immunization status has also been proposed as a significant influencing factor of probiotic use impact. The paucity of research focusing on bacterial etiologies, as well as of clinical trials conducted within ambulatory care units leaves room for further research on the matter, which needs to include larger cohort studies.
Electrospinning of Potential Medical Devices (Wound Dressings, Tissue Engineering Scaffolds, Face Masks) and Their Regulatory Approach
Authors: Uhljar Luca Éva , Ambrus Rita
Published: January 2023

Electrospinning is the simplest and most widely used technology for producing ultra-thin fibers. During electrospinning, the high voltage causes a thin jet to be launched from the liquid polymer and then deposited onto the grounded collector. Depending on the type of the fluid, solution and melt electrospinning are distinguished. The morphology and physicochemical properties of the produced fibers depend on many factors, which can be categorized into three groups: process parameters, material properties, and ambient parameters. In the biomedical field, electrospun nanofibers have a wide variety of applications ranging from medication delivery systems to tissue engineering scaffolds and soft electronics. Many of these showed promising results for potential use as medical devices in the future. Medical devices are used to cure, prevent, or diagnose diseases without the presence of any active pharmaceutical ingredients. The regulation of conventional medical devices is strict and carefully controlled; however, it is not yet properly defined in the case of nanotechnology-made devices. This review is divided into two parts. The first part provides an overview on electrospinning through several examples, while the second part focuses on developments in the field of electrospun medical devices. Additionally, the relevant regulatory framework is summarized at the end of this paper.
Optical Absorption Coefficient and Refractive-Index Change in a Coupled Quantum Dot-Metallic Nanoparticle Structure
Authors: Evangelou Sofia
Published: January 2023

In the present work, we investigate the problem of the optical absorption coefficient (OAC) and refractive-index change (RIC) in a semiconductor quantum dot placed in the vicinity of a spherical metallic nanoparticle. We derive the total OAC and RIC from the density-matrix equations through different approaches, one without approximations and the other keeping only linear and third-order nonlinear terms. The derived formulae are then applied in a specific hybrid nanostructure to calculate the OAC and RIC. The results obtained from the derived formulae are used to compare cases of various interparticle distance values and applied light intensities and find that, although for specific distances and intensities the formulae may give similar results, in general, they give different results. Moreover, it becomes clear that the distance between the quantum dot and the metallic nanoparticle, in combination with the polarisation of the light field, plays a significant role in the OAC and RIC of the quantum dot. Expressly, conditional on the polarisation of the applied electric field, the OAC and RIC of the quantum dot can be either enhanced or suppressed close to the metallic nanoparticle compared to their values in the absence of the metallic nanoparticle.
Routing and Timeslot Scheduling for SPN Fine-Granularity Slices
Authors: Gu Rentao , Xue Yuqi , Zhang Yong , Wang Zixuan , Zhang Hao , Yang Yi , Li Yan , Ji Yuefeng
Published: January 2023

The integration of 5G and vertical industries promotes the development of the energy Ethernet while putting forward fine granularity, flexibility, high reliability, and deterministic low-latency service requirements for the smart grid and the ubiquitous power Internet of Things (UPIoT). As the bearer architecture supporting the next-generation optical transmission network, the Slicing Packet Network (SPN) slice granularity decreases from 5 Gbps to 10 Mbps fine granularity and the frame period of 5 Gbps large-granularity slices is short, so the non-deterministic delay caused by timeslot conflicts has a negligible impact on the end-to-end delay, and the timeslot scheduling is unnecessary. However, due to the reduction in timeslot granularity and the change in frame structure in 10 Mbps slices, the scheduling of conflicting timeslots and the complex device computing management problems need to be solved urgently. In this paper, we establish a model of routing embedded timeslot scheduling for the routing of fine-granularity slices and timeslot scheduling problems in SPN-based FlexE interfaces, for which we propose a deterministic timeslot allocation mechanism supporting end-to-end low-latency transmission. According to the timeslot symmetry, the mechanism can reduce the space of feasible solutions through ant colony optimization and unidirectional neighborhood search (ACO-UNS), so as to efficiently solve the scheduling of conflicting timeslots and provide end-to-end delay guarantee for delay-sensitive services. Finally, we make a comparison between the ACO-UNS algorithm and the timeslot random dispatching algorithm (ACO-RD); the results show that, relative to the ACO-RD, the reduction in the proposed ACO-UNS is 98.721% for the end-to-end delay of fine-granularity slices.
Injectable Networks Based on a Hybrid Synthetic/Natural Polymer Gel and Self-Assembling Peptides Functioning as Reinforcing Fillers
Authors: Ghilan Alina , Croitoriu Alexandra , Chiriac Aurica P. , Nita Loredana Elena , Bercea Maria , Rusu Alina Gabriela
Published: January 2023

Double network (DN) hydrogels composed of self-assembling low-molecular-weight gelators and a hybrid polymer network are of particular interest for many emerging biomedical applications, such as tissue regeneration and drug delivery. The major benefits of these structures are their distinct mechanical properties as well as their ability to mimic the hierarchical features of the extracellular matrix. Herein, we describe a hybrid synthetic/natural polymer gel that acts as the initial network based on sodium alginate and a copolymer, namely poly(itaconic anhydride-co-3,9-divinyl-2,4,8,10-tetraoxaspiro (5,5) undecane). The addition of amino acids and peptide-derived hydrogelators, such as Fmoc-Lys-Fmoc-OH and Fmoc-Gly-Gly-Gly-OH, to the already-made network gives rise to DNs crosslinked via non-covalent interactions. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermal analysis confirmed the formation of the DN and highlighted the interactions between the two component networks. Swelling studies revealed that the materials have an excellent water absorption capacity and can be classified as superabsorbent gels. The rheological properties were systematically investigated in response to different variables and showed that the prepared materials present injectability and a self-healing ability. SEM analysis revealed a morphology consisting of a highly porous and interconnected fibrous network. Finally, the biocompatibility was evaluated using the MTT assay on dermal fibroblasts, and the results indicated that the new structures are non-toxic and potentially useful for biomedical applications.
Analysis of Thermomechanical Behavior of the Tubular Braided Fabrics with Flax/Polyamide Commingled Yarns
Authors: Li Jinlei , L’Hostis Gildas , Hamila Nahiène , Wang Peng
Published: January 2023

Flax fibers are widely used as the strongest natural fibers in composite parts with advanced structures. Due to their excellent mechanical properties and recyclability, they have attracted more attention from the aviation and automotive industries, etc. These composite parts are usually obtained by preforming reinforcements or prepregs at high temperatures, and their mechanical behaviors are greatly affected by temperature variations. To improve the understanding of the mechanical properties of flax fiber materials, especially for the braided fabric with non-orthogonal structures, uniaxial tensile tests at different temperatures and tensile speeds were conducted on hollow tubular braided fabrics. The thermomechanical properties of Flax/Polyamide12 (PA12) prepregs were analyzed. The results show that temperature and tensile speed have obvious effects on the strength and shear stiffness of tubular fabrics. The strength and shear stiffness of the fabric decreases as the ambient temperature increases. Meanwhile, the strength of the fabric can also be improved by appropriately increasing the tensile speed. In addition, according to the experimental results, a theoretical model is established to describe the shear angle on the smallest circumference of the fabric, which provides a theoretical basis for the subsequent simulation process. The test results can provide a reference for the manufacture of flax fiber-reinforced composites with tubular structures.
The Relationship between Structure and Performance of Different Polyimides Based on Molecular Simulations
Authors: Zhang Peng , Dai Yadong , Liu Hansong , Dong Botao , Yao Yilun , Sun Jinsong , Yang Tao , Zhong Xiangyu , Bao Jianwen
Published: January 2023

A polyimide (PI) molecular model was successfully constructed to compare the performance of PIs with different structures. In detail, the structure of the cross-linked PI resin, the prepolymer melt viscosity, and the glass-transition temperature (Tg) were investigated using molecular simulations. The results indicate that benzene ring and polyene-type cross-linked structures dominate the properties of the PIs. Moreover, the prepolymer melt viscosity simulations show that the 6FDA-APB and the ODPA-APB systems have a low viscosity. The results for the Tg and the distribution dihedral angle reveal that the key factor affecting bond flexibility may be the formation of a new dihedral angle after cross-linking, which affects the Tg. The above results provide an important reference for the design of PIs and have important value from the perspective of improving the efficiency of new product development.
Improvement of Selectivity of RALEX-CM Membranes via Modification by Ceria with a Functionalized Surface
Authors: Stenina Irina , Yurova Polina , Achoh Aslan , Zabolotsky Victor , Wu Liang , Yaroslavtsev Andrey
Published: January 2023

Ion exchange membranes are widely used for water treatment and ion separation by electrodialysis. One of the ways to increase the efficiency of industrial membranes is their modification with various dopants. To improve the membrane permselectivity, a simple strategy of the membrane surface modification was proposed. Heterogeneous RALEX-CM membranes were surface-modified by ceria with a phosphate-functionalized surface. Despite a decrease in ionic conductivity of the prepared composite membranes, their cation transport numbers slightly increase. Moreover, the modified membranes show a threefold increase in Ca2+/Na+ permselectivity (from 2.1 to 6.1) at low current densities.
Renovation of Agro-Waste for Sustainable Food Packaging: A Review
Authors: Varghese Sandhya Alice , Pulikkalparambil Harikrishnan , Promhuad Khwanchat , Srisa Atcharawan , Laorenza Yeyen , Jarupan Lerpong , Nampitch Tarinee , Chonhenchob Vanee , Harnkarnsujarit Nathdanai
Published: January 2023

Waste management in the agricultural sector has become a major concern. Increased food production to satisfy the surge in population has resulted in the generation of large volumes of solid waste. Agro-waste is a rich source of biocompounds with high potential as a raw material for food packaging. Utilization of agro-waste supports the goal of sustainable development in a circular economy. This paper reviews recent trends and the development of agro-wastes from plant and animal sources into eco-friendly food packaging systems. Different plant and animal sources and their potential development into packaging are discussed, including crop residues, process residues, vegetable and fruit wastes, and animal-derived wastes. A comprehensive analysis of the properties and production methods of these packages is presented. Future aspects of agro-waste packaging systems and the inherent production problems are addressed.
Portuguese Youth Religiosity in Comparative Perspective
Authors: Coutinho José Pereira
Published: January 2023

Portugal has been a good example of sociocultural changes during the last decades which have influenced the levels of religiosity, namely among young people. In this context, this article studies Portuguese youth religiosity in a comparative perspective. First, it compares Portuguese youth religiosity with the other Portuguese age groups’ religiosity. Second, it compares Portuguese youth religiosity over time. A supplementary analysis compares Portugal with Catholic Europe in both aspects. Portuguese youth are less religious than the other age groups, mainly the older group, and are becoming less religious over time. Comparing Portugal with Catholic Europe, differences in young people have decreased in the last two decades, reaching similar values in 2020. Quantitative analyses based on four religiosity dimensions (community, practice, belief, and norm), using the European Values Study, were applied. These data confirm secularization, including the theories of individualization and cohort replacement, in line with other studies.
Human–Computer Interaction with a Real-Time Speech Emotion Recognition with Ensembling Techniques 1D Convolution Neural Network and Attention
Authors: Alsabhan Waleed
Published: January 2023

Emotions have a crucial function in the mental existence of humans. They are vital for identifying a person’s behaviour and mental condition. Speech Emotion Recognition (SER) is extracting a speaker’s emotional state from their speech signal. SER is a growing discipline in human–computer interaction, and it has recently attracted more significant interest. This is because there are not so many universal emotions; therefore, any intelligent system with enough computational capacity can educate itself to recognise them. However, the issue is that human speech is immensely diverse, making it difficult to create a single, standardised recipe for detecting hidden emotions. This work attempted to solve this research difficulty by combining a multilingual emotional dataset with building a more generalised and effective model for recognising human emotions. A two-step process was used to develop the model. The first stage involved the extraction of features, and the second stage involved the classification of the features that were extracted. ZCR, RMSE, and the renowned MFC coefficients were retrieved as features. Two proposed models, 1D CNN combined with LSTM and attention and a proprietary 2D CNN architecture, were used for classification. The outcomes demonstrated that the suggested 1D CNN with LSTM and attention performed better than the 2D CNN. For the EMO-DB, SAVEE, ANAD, and BAVED datasets, the model’s accuracy was 96.72%, 97.13%, 96.72%, and 88.39%, respectively. The model beat several earlier efforts on the same datasets, demonstrating the generality and efficacy of recognising multiple emotions from various languages.
Comparing Efficiency and Performance of IoT BLE and RFID-Based Systems for Achieving Contact Tracing to Monitor Infection Spread among Hospital and Office Staff
Authors: Gendy Maggie , Tham Phi , Harrison Flynn , Yuce Mehmet
Published: January 2023

COVID-19 is highly contagious and spreads rapidly; it can be transmitted through coughing or contact with virus-contaminated hands, surfaces, or objects. The virus spreads faster indoors and in crowded places; therefore, there is a huge demand for contact tracing applications in indoor environments, such as hospitals and offices, in order to measure personnel proximity while placing as little load on them as possible. Contact tracing is a vital step in controlling and restricting pandemic spread; however, traditional contact tracing is time-consuming, exhausting, and ineffective. As a result, more research and application of smart digital contact tracing is necessary. As the Internet of Things (IoT) and wearable sensor device studies have grown in popularity, this work has been based on the practicality and successful implementation of Bluetooth low energy (BLE) and radio frequency identification (RFID) IoT based wireless systems for achieving contact tracing. Our study presents autonomous, low-cost, long-battery-life wireless sensing systems for contact tracing applications in hospital/office environments; these systems are developed with off-the-shelf components and do not rely on end user participation in order to prevent any inconvenience. Performance evaluation of the two implemented systems is carried out under various real practical settings and scenarios; these two implemented centralised IoT contact tracing devices were tested and compared demonstrating their efficiency results.
How Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Teachers Experience Physical Education—A Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies
Authors: Müller Johannes , Böhlke Nicola
Published: January 2023

Research on sexual diversity in physical education (PE) focuses primarily on students and rarely on teachers. Against this background, this study takes a look at teachers and explores the question of how lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) teachers experience PE. Our study was conceived as a systematic literature review of qualitative studies published between 1990 and 2022. The processual study selection was carried out according to PRISMA. A total of nine studies were identified that met our inclusion criteria. We analyzed and compared the findings of these studies. On an overarching level, our analysis shows that the identified studies predominantly focus on the challenges and problems associated with the sexuality of LGB teachers. Furthermore, our analysis shows that the PE teachers interviewed in the studies perceive and anticipate school as a homophobic context. From the teachers’ perspective, PE is a special subject that they experience as particularly risky due to their sexuality. Against the backdrop of these experiences, many PE teachers use protective strategies, which mainly consist of hiding their own sexuality and ignoring the perceived homophobia. In the end, research implications are discussed, highlighting the need for ongoing research on LGB PE teachers.