bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hierarchical Multi-Stage Coordination of Inverters for Voltage Control in Active Distribution Networks with a µPMU-PDC
Authors: Zafari Ali , Gargoom Ameen , Hosseinzadeh Nasser , Islam Shama , Haque Md Enamul , Arif Mohammad Taufiqul , Abdelrazek Mohamed
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a hierarchical multi-stage approach based on a distributed level phasor measurement unit (µPMU) at local controllers and a phasor data concentrator (PDC) at the central control unit to restore system voltage when it exceeds the limits recommended by the IEEE 1547-2018 standard. The proposed algorithm does not need an accurate system model or employ optimization solutions. Therefore, it has less implementation complexity and would be popular among distribution network service providers (DNSPs) and distribution network operators (DNOs) as it does not suffer from cost and computational complexity limitations. A PMU-PDC-based communication platform has been developed as a more efficient alternative to the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system, and provides superior characteristics, including a higher sample rate, higher data resolutions, and faster communication. The proposed coordinated algorithm aims to postpone power generation curtailment in distributed energy resources (DERs) with overvoltage problems (local DERs) by incorporating all the DERs that are not subjected to voltage violation (remote DERs) by absorbing their maximum reactive power capacity. If the system voltage has not recovered after absorbing all of the reactive power capacity of all the DERs, a reduced active power curtailment proposed by the algorithm is then applied to the system to control the voltage. The proposed strategy has been simulated in MATLAB and applied to IEEE 13-bus and IEEE 33-bus radial distribution benchmark systems to validate the performance of the system, in terms of its ability to coordinate voltage control and the accuracy of the PMU-PDC-based communication interface.
Visions of Red Riding Hood: Transformative Bodies in Contemporary Adaptations
Authors: Abele Elizabeth
Published: June 2023

Gothic and sexual elements are embedded within both Charles Perrault’s and the Brothers Grimm’s tellings of “Little Red Riding Hood”. When popular culture turned to fairy tales from the late 20th century forward, reimagining them as gothic tales for adults, “Little Red Riding Hood” provided a particularly rich setting. In particular, these adaptations exploited the false binaries within these tales while making more visible the sexual abuse and recovery encoded in the narratives. This essay will first explore the particular gothic qualities within this tale, as well as the shapeshifting nature of the four characters. After establishing how the figure of Red, as well as her motifs, are key to ensemble fairy-tale narratives, I will examine adaptations that directly explore the sexuality and agency of a young woman, as she resists both predators and her family legacy. However, the last section will note that monstrosity, like victimization, can be resisted. Overall, this essay interrogates contemporary film and television adaptations of this tale, with a particular interest in the messages of recovery and agency in these new versions.
Using AI–ML to Augment the Capabilities of Social Media for Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring
Authors: Leung Ricky
Published: June 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have revolutionized the way health organizations approach social media. The sheer volume of data generated through social media can be overwhelming, but AI and ML can help organizations effectively manage this information to improve telehealth, remote patient monitoring, and the well-being of individuals and communities. Previous research has revealed several trends in AI–ML adoption: First, AI can be used to enhance social media marketing. Drawing on sentiment analysis and related tools, social media is an effective way to increase brand awareness and customer engagement. Second, social media can become a very useful data collection tool when integrated with new AI–ML technologies. Using this function well requires researchers and practitioners to protect users’ privacy carefully, such as through the deployment of privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs). Third, AI–ML enables organizations to maintain a long-term relationship with stakeholders. Chatbots and related tools can increase users’ ability to receive personalized content. The review in this paper identifies research gaps in the literature. In view of these gaps, the paper proposes a conceptual framework that highlights essential components for better utilizing AI and ML. Additionally, it enables researchers and practitioners to better design social media platforms that minimize the spread of misinformation and address ethical concerns more readily. It also provides insights into the adoption of AI and ML in the context of remote patient monitoring and telehealth within social media platforms.
Assessment of Primary Care Physicians’ Expertise of Common Dermatological Conditions in the Jouf Region, Saudi Arabia: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Alotaibi Hatem M. , Alruwaili Ziyad M. , Dilli Ahmed A. , Altaleb Abdullah A. , Asiri Mohanad M. , Alwadani Osama J. , Alshaalan Ziad M. , Dar Umar-Farooq
Published: June 2023

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the first line of defense for the management of common dermatological conditions (DCs). This study aimed to assess how dermatological diseases are identified, managed, and referred to in primary healthcare centers (PHCs). This was a mixed methods study comprising a cross-sectional survey and semi-structured interviews recruited through PHCs across the Jouf region of Saudi Arabia. Sixty-one PCPs completed the data, and eight participants were interviewed. A survey based on a sample of 22 photographs of common DCs in the Kingdom was administered to the participants to answer questions about the correct diagnosis, appropriate management, referral strategy, and encounter rate. In our sampled population, the mean overall knowledge level on a scale of 10 was 7.08 (±1.3). Among participants that had good to acceptable scores, 51 (83.6%) were in the overall knowledge parameter, 46 (75.4%) in the diagnosis parameter, and 49 (80.3%) in the management parameter. PCPs with five years or more of experience were found to have significantly higher overall knowledge and management scores. Most of our PCPs demonstrated sufficient knowledge of common DCs and had good to acceptable scores in all parameters. However, educational and regulatory aspects of PCPs’ clinical management were identified. Focused training, provision of workshops, and improving medical school curricula regarding common DCs are recommended.
The Degree of Problematic Technology Use Negatively Affects Physical Activity Level, Adherence to Mediterranean Diet and Psychological State of Adolescents
Authors: Mateo-Orcajada Adrián , Vaquero-Cristóbal Raquel , Albaladejo-Saura Mario Demófilo , Abenza-Cano Lucía
Published: June 2023

The previous scientific literature has shown how detrimental addictive internet and mobile phone use can be for the adolescent population. However, little is known about their influence on the physical activity, kinanthropometry and body composition, nutrition patterns, psychological state, and physical fitness of this population. For this reason, the objectives of this research were (a) to determine the differences in the physical activity level, kinanthropometric and body composition variables, adherence to Mediterranean diet (AMD), psychological state, and physical fitness according to gender and different levels of problematic use of the internet and mobile phones; and (b) to establish the differences in the physical activity level, kinanthropometric and body composition variables, AMD, psychological state, and physical fitness among adolescents when considering problematic use of the internet and mobile phones in combination. The sample consisted of 791 adolescent males and females between 12 and 16 years of age (1st to 4th course) from four compulsory secondary schools (404 males and 387 females; mean age: 14.39 ± 1.26 years-old; mean height: 163.47 ± 8.94 cm; mean body mass: 57.32 ± 13.35 kg; mean BMI: 21.36 ± 3.96 kg/m2). The physical activity level (baseline score: 2.64 ± 0.67), kinanthropometric variables and body composition, AMD (baseline score: 6.48 ± 2.48), psychological state (baseline life satisfaction: 17.73 ± 4.83; competence: 26.48 ± 7.54; autonomy: 25.37 ± 6.73; relatedness: 24.45 ± 6.54), and physical condition variables were measured. The results showed that adolescent males and females with problematic internet and/or mobile phone use presented a worse psychological state, but it is especially relevant to highlight that females also had a lower level of physical activity and AMD, with problematic mobile phone use being especially relevant, mainly in the psychological state of adolescents. In conclusion, problematic use of the internet and mobile phones can have detrimental effects on the level of physical activity, AMD, and psychological state of adolescents, with the differences found in females being particularly relevant.
Frailty in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—Prevalence and Management, Where Are We?
Authors: Alshanberi Asim Muhammed
Published: June 2023

A recent report from the United Nations state that the percentage of elderly individuals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) will witness a sharp increase in the next three decades (5.6% in 2017 to 23% by 2050). This situation will lead to an increased prevalence of comorbidities and hence, will require close monitoring and constant care of such individuals who are prone to suffer from complications such as arthritis, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, neurological disorders, etc. Frailty is one such age-related phenomenon which enhances the risk of falling, functional restrictions and greater vulnerability to adverse consequences, which tend to lead to institutionalization. Such factors highlight the importance of the urgent awareness for circumventing the progression of frailty toward a compromised health status. This concise report is an attempt to sum up the relevant research articles published with regard to frailty and concomitant diseases in the last 5 years. It also sums up the research on frailty in the KSA elderly population, till date. This article reflects the opinions of an author on tackling such issues through a well-directed mechanism involving interdisciplinary transitional care and geriatric co-management.
Integrated IBD Analysis, GWAS Analysis and Transcriptome Analysis to Identify the Candidate Genes for White Spot Disease in Maize
Authors: Wang Dong , He Yue , Nie Lei , Guo Shuang , Tu Liang , Guo Xiangyang , Wang Angui , Liu Pengfei , Zhu Yunfang , Wu Xun , Chen Zehui
Published: June 2023

Foundation parents (FPs) play an irreplaceable role in maize breeding practices. Maize white spot (MWS) is an important disease in Southwest China that always seriously reduces production. However, knowledge about the genetic mechanism of MWS resistance is limited. In this paper, a panel of 143 elite lines were collected and genotyped by using the MaizeSNP50 chip with approximately 60,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and evaluated for resistance to MWS among 3 environments, and a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and transcriptome analysis were integrated to reveal the function of the identity-by-descent (IBD) segments for MWS. The results showed that (1) 225 IBD segments were identified only in the FP QB512, 192 were found only in the FP QR273 and 197 were found only in the FP HCL645. (2) The GWAS results showed that 15 common quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) were associated with MWS. Interestingly, SYN10137 and PZA00131.14 were in the IBD segments of QB512, and the SYN10137-PZA00131.14 region existed in more than 58% of QR273′s descendants. (3) By integrating the GWAS and transcriptome analysis, Zm00001d031875 was found to located in the region of SYN10137-PZA00131.14. These results provide some new insights for the detection of MWS’s genetic variation mechanisms.
Multifunctional Oxidized Dextran as a Matrix for Stabilization of Octahedral Molybdenum and Tungsten Iodide Clusters in Aqueous Media
Authors: Pronina Ekaterina V. , Vorotnikov Yuri A. , Pozmogova Tatiana N. , Tsygankova Alphiya R. , Kirakci Kaplan , Lang Kamil , Shestopalov Michael A.
Published: June 2023

Due to their high abundance, polymeric character, and chemical tunability, polysaccharides are perfect candidates for the stabilization of photoactive nanoscale objects, which are of great interest in modern science but can be unstable in aqueous media. In this work, we have demonstrated the relevance of oxidized dextran polysaccharide, obtained via a simple reaction with H2O2, towards the stabilization of photoactive octahedral molybdenum and tungsten iodide cluster complexes [M6I8}(DMSO)6](NO3)4 in aqueous and culture media. The cluster-containing materials were obtained by co-precipitation of the starting reagents in DMSO solution. According to the data obtained, the amount and ratio of functional carbonyl and carboxylic groups as well as the molecular weight of oxidized dextran strongly affect the extent of stabilization, i.e., high loading of aldehyde groups and high molecular weight increase the stability, while acidic groups have some negative impact on the stability. The most stable material based on the tungsten cluster complex exhibited low dark and moderate photoinduced cytotoxicity, which together with high cellular uptake makes these polymers promising for the fields of bioimaging and PDT.
Synaptamide Ameliorates Hippocampal Neurodegeneration and Glial Activation in Mice with Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Tyrtyshnaia Anna , Manzhulo Olga , Manzhulo Igor
Published: June 2023

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major concern for public health worldwide, affecting 55 million people and being the leading cause of death and disability. To improve the outcomes and effectiveness of treatment for these patients, we conducted a study on the potential therapeutic use of N-docosahexaenoylethanolamine (synaptamide) in mice using the weight-drop injury (WDI) TBI model. Our study focused on exploring synaptamide’s effects on neurodegeneration processes and changes in neuronal and glial plasticity. Our findings showed that synaptamide could prevent TBI-associated working memory decline and neurodegenerative changes in the hippocampus, and it could alleviate decreased adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Furthermore, synaptamide regulated the production of astro- and microglial markers during TBI, promoting the anti-inflammatory transformation of the microglial phenotype. Additional effects of synaptamide in TBI include stimulating antioxidant and antiapoptotic defense, leading to the downregulation of the Bad pro-apoptotic marker. Our data suggest that synaptamide has promising potential as a therapeutic agent to prevent the long-term neurodegenerative consequences of TBI and improve the quality of life.
Toxicity and Biotransformation of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials in Marine Microalgae Heterosigma akashiwo
Authors: Pikula Konstantin , Johari Seyed Ali , Santos-Oliveira Ralph , Golokhvast Kirill
Published: June 2023

This work is related to the environmental toxicology risk assessment and evaluation of the possible transformation of carbon-based nanomaterials (CNMs) after contact with marine microalgae. The materials used in the study represent common and widely applied multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs), fullerene (C60), graphene (Gr), and graphene oxide (GrO). The toxicity was evaluated as growth rate inhibition, esterase activity, membrane potential, and reactive oxygen species generation changes. The measurement was performed with flow cytometry after 3, 24, 96 h, and 7 days. The biotransformation of nanomaterials was evaluated after 7 days of microalgae cultivation with CNMs by FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. The calculated toxic level (EC50 in mg/L, 96 h) of used CNMs reduced in the following order: CNTs (18.98) > GrO (76.77) > Gr (159.40) > C60 (414.0). Oxidative stress and membrane depolarization were the main toxic action of CNTs and GrO. At the same time, Gr and C60 decreased the toxic action with time and had no negative impact on microalgae after 7 days of exposure even at the concentration of 125 mg/L. Moreover, C60 and Gr after 7 days of contact with microalgae cells obtained structural deformations.
IL18 Gene Polymorphism Is Associated with Total IgE in Adult Subjects with Asthma
Authors: Lando Valentina , Calciano Lucia , Minelli Cosetta , Bombieri Cristina , Ferrari Marcello , Malerba Giovanni , Margagliotti Antonino , Murgia Nicola , Nicolis Morena , Olivieri Mario , Potts James , Tardivo Stefano , Accordini Simone
Published: June 2023

The allergic asthma phenotype is characterized by a T helper type 2 (Th2) immune response, based on Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated type 1 hypersensitivity reactions. Total IgE is the sum of all IgE types produced by the human body and is used as a biomarker of inflammation in asthma. We analysed data collected in 143 asthma cases (median age 42.1 years) from the general Italian population (GEIRD survey; 2008–2010) to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in candidate genes that are associated with total IgE in adult subjects with asthma. These patients reported respiratory symptoms in response to perennial allergens and provided data on 166 SNPs tagging 50 candidate genes or gene regions. Replication of the statistically significant results was performed in 842 asthma cases from other European countries (ECRHS II survey; 1998–2002). SNP rs549908 in interleukin 18 (IL18) gene was significantly associated with total IgE in GEIRD, and this result was replicated in ECRHS II. SNP rs1063320 in the human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) gene was identified in GEIRD, but this association was not replicated in ECRHS II. Further investigating IL18 and its biological pathways could be important for developing new therapeutic targets, due to its involvement in inflammatory response processes.
Calcification Propensity (T50) Predicts a Rapid Decline of Renal Function in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Hammer Nathalie , Legouis David , Pasch Andreas , Huber Aurélie , Al-Qusairi Lama , Martin Pierre-Yves , de Seigneux Sophie , Berchtold Lena
Published: June 2023

Background: Serum creatinine level, proteinuria, and interstitial fibrosis are predictive of renal prognosis. Fractional excretion of phosphate (FEP)/FGF23 ratio, tubular reabsorption of phosphate (TRP), serum calcification propensity (T50), and Klotho’s serum level are emerging as determinants of poor kidney outcomes in CKD patients. We aimed at analysing the use of FGF23, FEP/FGF23, TRP, T50, and Klotho in predicting the rapid decline of renal function in kidney allograft recipients. Methods: We included 103 kidney allograft recipients in a retrospective study with a prospective follow-up of 4 years. We analysed the predictive values of FGF23, FEP/FGF23, TRP, T50, and Klotho for a rapid decline of renal function defined as a drop of eGFR > 30%. Results: During a follow-up of 4 years, 23 patients displayed a rapid decline of renal function. Tertile of FGF23 (p value = 0.17), FEP/FGF23 (p value = 0.78), TRP (p value = 0.62) and Klotho (p value = 0.31) were not associated with an increased risk of rapid decline of renal function in kidney transplant recipients. The lower tertile of T50 was significantly associated with eGFR decline >30% with a hazard ratio of 3.86 (p = 0.048) and remained significant in multivariable analysis. Conclusion: T50 showed a strong association with a rapid decline of renal function in kidney allograft patients. This study underlines its role as an independent biomarker of loss of kidney function. We found no association between other phosphocalcic markers, such as FGF23, FEP/FGF23, TRP and Klotho, with a rapid decline of renal function in kidney allograft recipients.
Current Approach and Future Directions in the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Keratinocyte Carcinomas
Authors: Scheau Cristian , Caruntu Constantin , Caruntu Ana
Published: June 2023

Keratinocyte carcinomas (KCs) are malignancies developed from keratinocytes or their precursors [...]
Beyond LDL: Understanding Triglyceride-Rich Lipoproteins to Tackle Residual Risk
Authors: Gugliucci Alejandro
Published: June 2023

For the past 30 years, statin therapy has been the cornerstone for the reduction in the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) [...]
Towards Multi-AUV Collaboration and Coordination: A Gesture-Based Multi-AUV Hierarchical Language and a Language Framework Comparison System
Authors: Chiarella Davide
Published: June 2023

The underwater environment is a harmful environment, yet one of the richest and least exploited. For these reasons the idea of a robotic companion with the task of supporting and monitoring divers during their activities and operations has been proposed. However, the idea of a platoon of robots at the diver’s disposal has never been fully addressed in these proposals due to the high cost of implementation and the usability, weight and bulk of the robots. Nevertheless, recent advancements in swarm robotics, materials engineering, deep learning, and the decreasing cost of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), have rendered this concept increasingly viable. Therefore, this paper introduces, in the first part, a novel framework that integrates a revised version of a gesture-based language for underwater human–robot interaction (Caddian) based on insights gained from extensive field trials. The newly introduced objective of this framework is to enable the cooperation and coordination of an AUV team by one or more human operators, while allowing a human operator to delegate a robot leader to instruct the other robotic team members. The work, in the second part, provides an evaluation of the new language proposed thanks to a fifty million sentence corpus and describes a comparison framework, which is used to estimate it with respect to other existing underwater human–robot interaction languages.
Long-Term Trajectory Prediction for Oil Tankers via Grid-Based Clustering
Authors: Xu Xuhang , Liu Chunshan , Li Jianghui , Miao Yongchun , Zhao Lou
Published: June 2023

Vessel trajectory prediction is an important step in route planning, which could help improve the efficiency of maritime transportation. In this article, a high-accuracy long-term trajectory prediction algorithm is proposed for oil tankers. The proposed algorithm extracts a set of waymark points that are representative of the key traveling patterns in an area of interest by applying DBSCAN clustering to historical AIS data. A novel path-finding algorithm is then developed to sequentially identify a subset of waymark points, from which the predicted trajectory to a fixed destination is produced. The proposed algorithm is tested using real data offered by the Danish Maritime Authority. Numerical results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms state-of-the-art vessel trajectory prediction algorithms and is able to make high-accuracy long-term trajectory predictions.
Landslide Susceptibility Mapping Based on Resampling Method and FR-CNN: A Case Study of Changdu
Authors: Qin Zili , Zhou Xinyao , Li Mengyao , Tong Yuanxin , Luo Hongxia
Published: June 2023

Deep learning can extract complex and high-dimensional characteristic information with its deep structure, effectively exploring the complex relationship between landslides and their numerous influencing factors, and ultimately, more accurately predict future landslide disasters. This study builds a landslide susceptibility mapping (LSM) method based on deep learning, compares the frequency ratio (FR) sampling method with a buffer random sampling method, and performs resampling operations of landslide and non-landslide samples to explore the applicability of deep learning in LSM. In addition, six indices, precision, accuracy, recall, ROC, and the harmonic mean F1 of accuracy and recall were selected for quantitative comparison. The results show that both the resampling method proposed in this paper and the non-landslide sample selection method based on FR can significantly improve the accuracy of the model, with the area under curve (AUC) increasing by 1.34–8.82% and 3.98–7.20%, respectively, and the AUC value can be improved by 5.32–9.66% by combining the FR selection and resampling methods. Furthermore, all the deep learning models constructed in this study can obtain accurate and reliable landslide susceptibility analysis results compared to traditional models.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Novel α-Conotoxins Derived from Endemic Polynesian Cone Snails
Authors: Souf Yazid Mohamed , Lokaj Gonxhe , Kuruva Veeresh , Saed Yakop , Raviglione Delphine , Brik Ashraf , Nicke Annette , Inguimbert Nicolas , Dutertre Sébastien
Published: June 2023

α-Conotoxins are well-known probes for the characterization of the various subtypes of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Identifying new α-conotoxins with different pharmacological profiles can provide further insights into the physiological or pathological roles of the numerous nAChR isoforms found at the neuromuscular junction, the central and peripheral nervous systems, and other cells such as immune cells. This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of two novel α-conotoxins obtained from two species endemic to the Marquesas Islands, namely Conus gauguini and Conus adamsonii. Both species prey on fish, and their venom is considered a rich source of bioactive peptides that can target a wide range of pharmacological receptors in vertebrates. Here, we demonstrate the versatile use of a one-pot disulfide bond synthesis to achieve the α-conotoxin fold [Cys 1-3; 2-4] for GaIA and AdIA, using the 2-nitrobenzyl (NBzl) protecting group of cysteines for effective regioselective oxidation. The potency and selectivity of GaIA and AdIA against rat nicotinic acetylcholine receptors were investigated electrophysiologically and revealed potent inhibitory activities. GaIA was most active at the muscle nAChR (IC50 = 38 nM), whereas AdIA was most potent at the neuronal α6/3 β2β3 subtype (IC50 = 177 nM). Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of the structure–activity relationships of α-conotoxins, which may help in the design of more selective tools.
Different Approaches for the Preparation of Composite Ionic Liquid-Based Membranes for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Applications—Recent Advancements
Authors: Ebrahimi Mohammad , Fatyeyeva Kateryna , Kujawski Wojciech
Published: June 2023

The use of ionic liquid-based membranes as polymer electrolyte membranes for fuel cell applications increases significantly due to the major features of ionic liquids (i.e., high thermal stability and ion conductivity, non-volatility, and non-flammability). In general, there are three major methods to introduce ionic liquids into the polymer membrane, such as incorporating ionic liquid into a polymer solution, impregnating the polymer with ionic liquid, and cross-linking. The incorporation of ionic liquids into a polymer solution is the most common method, owing to easy operation of process and quick membrane formation. However, the prepared composite membranes suffer from a reduction in mechanical stability and ionic liquid leakage. While mechanical stability may be enhanced by the membrane’s impregnation with ionic liquid, ionic liquid leaching is still the main drawback of this method. The presence of covalent bonds between ionic liquids and polymer chains during the cross-linking reaction can decrease the ionic liquid release. Cross-linked membranes reveal more stable proton conductivity, although a decrease in ionic mobility can be noticed. In the present work, the main approaches for ionic liquid introduction into the polymer film are presented in detail, and the recently obtained results (2019–2023) are discussed in correlation with the composite membrane structure. In addition, some promising new methods (i.e., layer-by-layer self-assembly, vacuum-assisted flocculation, spin coating, and freeze drying) are described.
Microstructural and Mechanical Behavior Investigations of Nb-Reinforced Mg–Sn–Al–Zn–Mn Matrix Magnesium Composites
Authors: Ercetin Ali , Özgün Özgür , Aslantaş Kubilay , Der Oguzhan , Yalçın Bekir , Şimşir Ercan , Aamir Muhammad
Published: June 2023

This research focuses on the fabrication and characterization of TAZ532-xNb composites, employing high-purity, micron-sized powders of Mg, Sn, Al, Zn, Mn, and Nb as the raw materials. These powders were subjected to a paraffin coating process aimed at mitigating oxidation. The formation of composites was achieved via hot pressing and was followed by surface preparation and analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). An X-ray diffraction (XRD) study was conducted to identify the microstructural phases. Quantitative assessments including the theoretical density, actual density, and relative density were computed, and their fluctuations in relation to the increasing Nb reinforcement ratio were scrutinized. Furthermore, the mechanical attributes of the composites, such as hardness and tensile strength, were assessed via experimental procedures. The absence of oxygen-related peaks in the XRD patterns endorsed the successful execution of the paraffin coating technique and protective gas atmosphere during sintering. The detection of α-Mg, Mg2Sn, MgZn, Mg17Al12, and Nb phases within the Nb-reinforced composite patterns authenticated the formation of the intended phases. Notably, the relative density values of the composites surpassed 95%, indicating efficient sintering. SEM results disclosed a densely packed microstructure, with Nb reinforcement particles evenly distributed along the grain boundaries, devoid of particle clustering or significant grain growth. These composites manifested exceptional wetting characteristics, which can be attributed to the employment of Mg alloy as the matrix material. EDS data confirmed the proportions of Nb within the composites, aligning with the quantities incorporated during fabrication. The composites showcased an increase in microhardness values with the escalating Nb reinforcement ratio, credited to the harder constitution of Nb particles in comparison to the matrix alloy. Concurrently, tensile strength showed a significant improvement with the increment in Nb reinforcement, while elongation values peaked at a specific Nb reinforcement level. The positive evolution of tensile strength properties was ascribed to the escalated Nb reinforcement ratio, grain size, and consequent higher sample densities.
Effect of Severe Torsion Deformation on Structure and Properties of Titanium–Nickel Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Komarov Victor , Karelin Roman , Cherkasov Vladimir , Yusupov Vladimir , Korpala Grzegorz , Kawalla Rudolf , Prahl Ulrich , Prokoshkin Sergey
Published: June 2023

In the present work, the possibility of applying severe torsion deformation (STD) to a bulk near-equiatomic NiTi shape memory alloy in order to accumulate super-high strain and improve mechanical and functional properties was studied. STD was performed using the multidirectional test system “BÄHR MDS-830” at a temperature of 500 °C (the upper border temperature for the development of dynamic polygonization) in 14 and 30 turns with accumulated true strain values of 4.3 and 9.1, respectively. Structural phase state and properties were studied using differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffractometry, transmission electron microscopy, hardness measurements, and thermomechanical bending tests. STD at 500 °C allowed for the accumulation of high strain without failure. As a result of STD in 30 turns, a submicrocrystalline structure with an average grain/subgrain size of about 500 nm was formed. This structure ensured the achievement of high maximum completely recoverable strain values of 6.1–6.8%. The results obtained show the prospects of applying severe torsion straining deformation to titanium nickelide in terms of forming an ultrafine-grained structure and high properties.
Effect of Low Doses of Dexamethasone on Experimental Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Lara-Espinosa Jacqueline V. , Arce-Aceves María Fernanda , Barrios-Payán Jorge , Mata-Espinosa Dulce , Lozano-Ordaz Vasti , Becerril-Villanueva Enrique , Ponce-Regalado María Dolores , Hernández-Pando Rogelio
Published: June 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is the deadliest disease caused by a bacterial agent. Glucocorticoids (GCs) have a typical anti-inflammatory effect, but recently it has been shown that they can present proinflammatory activity, mainly by increasing molecules from innate immunity. In the current study, we evaluated the effect of low doses of dexamethasone on Mycobacterium tuberculosis in vivo and in vitro. We used an established mice model of progressing tuberculosis (TB) in the in vivo studies. Intratracheal or intranasal dexamethasone therapy administered with conventional antibiotics in the late stage of the disease decreased the lung bacilli load and lung pneumonia, and increased the survival of the animals. Finally, the treatment decreased the inflammatory response in the SNC and, therefore, sickness behavior and neurological abnormalities in the infected animals. In the in vitro experiments, we used a cell line of murine alveolar macrophages infected with Mtb. Low-dose dexamethasone treatment increased the clearance capacity of Mtb by MHS macrophages, MIP-1α, and TLR2 expression, decreased proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and induced apoptosis, a molecular process that contributes to the control of the mycobacteria. In conclusion, the administration of low doses of dexamethasone represents a promising adjuvant treatment for pulmonary TB.
Reflectance Spectroscopy as a Novel Tool for Thickness Measurements of Paint Layers
Authors: Dal Fovo Alice , Martínez-Weinbaum Marina , Oujja Mohamed , Castillejo Marta , Fontana Raffaella
Published: June 2023

A major challenge in heritage science is the non-invasive cross-sectional analysis of paintings. When low-energy probes are used, the presence of opaque media can significantly hinder the penetration of incident radiation, as well as the collection of the backscattered signal. Currently, no technique is capable of uniquely and noninvasively measuring the micrometric thickness of heterogeneous materials, such as pictorial layers, for any painting material. The aim of this work was to explore the possibility of extracting stratigraphic information from reflectance spectra obtained by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). We tested the proposed approach on single layers of ten pure acrylic paints. The chemical composition of each paint was first characterised by micro-Raman and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopies. The spectral behaviour was analysed by both Fibre Optics Reflectance Spectroscopy (FORS) and Vis-NIR multispectral reflectance imaging. We showed that there is a clear correlation between the spectral response of acrylic paint layers and their micrometric thickness, which was previously measured by Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). Based on significant spectral features, exponential functions of reflectance vs. thickness were obtained for each paint, which can be used as calibration curves for thickness measurements. To the best of our knowledge, similar approaches for cross-sectional measurements of paint layers have never been tested.
Effects of Different Cooking Methods on Phenol Content and Antioxidant Activity in Sprouted Peanut
Authors: Zhang Liangchen , Qu Haolin , Xie Mengxi , Shi Taiyuan , Shi Puxiang , Yu Miao
Published: June 2023

Peanut sprout is a high-quality healthy food, which not only has beneficial effects, but also a higher phenol content than peanut seed. In this study, peanut sprout was treated with five cooking methods, namely boiling, steaming, microwave heating, roasting, and deep-frying, and the phenol content, monomeric phenol composition, and antioxidant activity were determined. The results showed that, compared with unripened peanut sprout, the total phenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) decreased significantly after the five ripening processes, and the highest retention of phenols and flavonoids was associated with microwave heating (82.05% for TPC; 85.35% for TFC). Compared with unripened peanut sprout, the monomeric phenol composition in germinated peanut was variable after heat processing. After microwave heating, except for a significant increase in the cinnamic acid content, no changes in the contents of resveratrol, ferulic acid, sinapic acid, and epicatechin were observed. Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation of TPC and TFC with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging capacity, 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) scavenging capacity, and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power in germinated peanut, but not with hydroxyl free radical scavenging capacity, in which the main monomer phenolic compounds were resveratrol, catechin, and quercetin. The research results indicate that microwave heating can effectively retain the phenolic substances and antioxidant activity in germinated peanuts, making it a more suitable ripening and processing method for germinated peanuts.
Chemical and Biological Characterization of Green and Processed Coffee Beans from Coffea arabica Varieties
Authors: Gallardo-Ignacio Javier , Santibáñez Anislada , Oropeza-Mariano Octavio , Salazar Ricardo , Montiel-Ruiz Rosa Mariana , Cabrera-Hilerio Sandra , Gonzáles-Cortazar Manasés , Cruz-Sosa Francisco , Nicasio-Torres Pilar
Published: June 2023

Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the world; its production is based mainly on varieties of the Coffea arabica species. Mexico stands out for its specialty and organic coffee. In Guerrero, the production is done by small indigenous community cooperatives that market their product as raw material. Official Mexico Standards stipulate the requirements for its commercialization within the national territory. In this work, the physical, chemical, and biological characterizations of green, medium, and dark roasted beans from C. arabica varieties were carried out. Analysis by HPLC showed higher chlorogenic acid (55 mg/g) and caffeine (1.8 mg/g) contents in the green beans of the Bourbon and Oro Azteca varieties. The caffeine (3.88 mg/g) and melanoidin (97 and 29 mg/g) contents increased according to the level of roasting; a dissimilar effect was found in the chlorogenic acid content (14.5 mg/g). The adequate nutritional content and the sensory evaluation allowed the classification of dark-roasted coffee as premium coffee (84.25 points) and medium-roasted coffee as specialty coffee (86.25 points). The roasted coffees presented antioxidant activity without cytotoxic effects; the presence of CGA and caffeine supports the beneficial effects of drinking coffee. The results obtained will serve as a basis for making decisions on improvements to the coffees analyzed.
Synthesis, Characterization, Fluorescence Properties, and DFT Modeling of Difluoroboron Biindolediketonates
Authors: Maspero Angelo , Vavassori Federico , Nardo Luca , Vesco Guglielmo , Vitillo Jenny G. , Penoni Andrea
Published: June 2023

We report a simple and efficient strategy to enhance the fluorescence of biocompatible biindole diketonates (bdks) in the visible spectrum through difluoroboronation (BF2bdks complexes). Emission spectroscopy testifies an increase in the fluorescence quantum yields from a few percent to as much as >0.7. This massive increment is essentially independent of substitutions at the indole (-H, -Cl, and -OCH3) and corresponds to a significant stabilization of the excited state with respect to non-radiative decay mechanisms: the non-radiative decay rates are reduced by as much as an order of magnitude, from 109 s−1 to 108 s−1, upon difluoroboronation. The stabilization of the excited state is large enough to enable sizeable 1O2 photosensitized production. Different time-dependent (TD) density functional theory (DFT) methods were assessed in their ability to model the electronic properties of the compounds, with TD-B3LYP-D3 providing the most accurate excitation energies. The calculations associate the first active optical transition in both the bdks and BF2bdks electronic spectra to the S0 → S1 transition, corresponding to a shift in the electronic density from the indoles to the oxygens or the O-BF2-O unit, respectively.
Investigation of Broadband Optical Nonlinear Absorption and Transient Dynamics in Orange IV Containing Azobenzene
Authors: Wu Quanhua , Ruan Rui , Li Xingxing , Zhao Yujie , Li Yang , Fang Yu , Chen Yongqiang , Wu Quanying , Song Yinglin , Wu Xingzhi
Published: June 2023

Broadband reverse saturable absorption is systematically investigated via Z-scan, transient absorption spectrum (TAS). The excited state absorption and negative refraction of Orange IV are observed in the Z-scan experiment at 532 nm. Meanwhile, two-photon-induced excited state absorption and pure two-photon absorption are observed at 600 nm and 700 nm with the pulse width of 190 fs, respectively. An ultrafast broadband absorption in the visible wavelength region is observed via TAS. The different nonlinear absorption mechanisms at multiple wavelengths are discussed and interpreted from the results of TAS. In addition, the ultrafast dynamics of negative refraction in the excited state of Orange IV are investigated via a degenerate phase object pump-probe, from which the weak long-lived excited state is extracted. All studies indicate that Orange IV has the potential to be further optimized into a superior broadband reverse saturable absorption material and also has certain reference significance for the study of optical nonlinearity in organic molecules containing azobenzene groups.
Advances in ATR-FTIR Spectroscopic Imaging for the Analysis of Tablet Dissolution and Drug Release
Authors: van Haaren Céline , De Bock Marieke , Kazarian Sergei G.
Published: June 2023

One of the major challenges in the development of effective pharmaceutical formulations for oral administration is the poor solubility of active pharmaceutical ingredients. For this reason, the dissolution process and drug release from solid oral dosage forms, such as tablets, is usually thoroughly studied in order to understand the dissolution behaviour under various conditions and optimize the formulation accordingly. Standard dissolution tests used in the pharmaceutical industry provide information on the amount of drug released over time; however, these do not allow for a detailed analysis of the underlying chemical and physical mechanisms of tablet dissolution. FTIR spectroscopic imaging, by contrast, does offer the ability to study these processes with high spatial and chemical specificity. As such, the method allows us to see the chemical and physical processes which occur inside the tablet as it dissolves. In this review, the power of ATR-FTIR spectroscopic imaging is demonstrated by presenting a number of successful applications of this chemical imaging technique to dissolution and drug release studies for a range of different pharmaceutical formulations and study conditions. Understanding these processes is essential for the development of effective oral dosage forms and optimization of pharmaceutical formulations.
Smart Radiotherapy Biomaterials for Image-Guided In Situ Cancer Vaccination
Authors: Ainsworth Victoria , Moreau Michele , Guthier Romy , Zegeye Ysaac , Kozono David , Swanson William , Jandel Marian , Oh Philmo , Quon Harry , Hobbs Robert F. , Yasmin-Karim Sayeda , Sajo Erno , Ngwa Wilfred
Published: June 2023

Recent studies have highlighted the potential of smart radiotherapy biomaterials (SRBs) for combining radiotherapy and immunotherapy. These SRBs include smart fiducial markers and smart nanoparticles made with high atomic number materials that can provide requisite image contrast during radiotherapy, increase tumor immunogenicity, and provide sustained local delivery of immunotherapy. Here, we review the state-of-the-art in this area of research, the challenges and opportunities, with a focus on in situ vaccination to expand the role of radiotherapy in the treatment of both local and metastatic disease. A roadmap for clinical translation is outlined with a focus on specific cancers where such an approach is readily translatable or will have the highest impact. The potential of FLASH radiotherapy to synergize with SRBs is discussed including prospects for using SRBs in place of currently used inert radiotherapy biomaterials such as fiducial markers, or spacers. While the bulk of this review focuses on the last decade, in some cases, relevant foundational work extends as far back as the last two and half decades.
Training Proposal in Palliative Care for Primary Care Nurses in a Health Area in Spain
Authors: García-Salvador Isidro , Chisbert-Alapont Encarna , Campos Amparo Antonaya , Mohedo Jorge Casaña , Navarro Clara Hurtado , Peris Silvia Fernández , López José Bonías , De la Rica Escuín Maria Luisa
Published: June 2023

Background: Primary Health Care nurses express deficits in their training in Palliative Care. The purpose of this study is to design a Palliative Care training plan and a bereavement care protocol for Primary Health Care nurses of the Dr. Peset Health Department according to their needs. Methods: Assessment of theoretical and practical training needs and literature review for the design of the training plan. Results: A training plan was elaborated that included a protocol of care for the bereaved. The plan was adjusted to the needs detected in Primary Health Care nurses of the Dr. Peset Health Department. Important training deficits were detected in clinical practice; Conclusions: Improving the care of people with palliative needs in Primary Health Care requires adequate training of the nurses who care for them so their knowledge is the basis of their interventions. This study was not registered.
Chemical Constituents and Antimicrobial Activity of a Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis.) P. Karst. Aqueous Ammonia Extract
Authors: Sánchez-Hernández Eva , Teixeira Ana , Pereira Catarina , Cruz Adriana , Martín-Gil Jesús , Oliveira Rui , Martín-Ramos Pablo
Published: June 2023

Mushroom extracts have shown potential as a source of new antimicrobial agents. This study investigates the chemical profile of an aqueous ammonia extract obtained from the carpophores of Ganoderma lucidum, which grows on Quercus ilex trees, and explores its valorization as a biorational. The major chemical constituents of the extract, identified through gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, include acetamide, oleic acid, 1,2,3,4-butanetetrol, monomethyl azelate, undecane, and palmitic acid. The anti-oomycete and antifungal activity of G. lucidum extract was evaluated against Phytophthora cinnamomi, the primary threat to Quercus spp. in the dehesa biome, as well as three Botryosphaeriaceae fungi. In vitro tests revealed minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 187.5 μg·mL−1 against P. cinnamomi and 187.5–1000 μg·mL−1 against the fungi. Furthermore, conjugation of the G. lucidum extract with chitosan oligomers (COS) synergistically enhanced its antimicrobial activity, resulting in MIC values of 78.12 and 375–500 μg·mL−1 against P. cinnamomi and the fungi, respectively. These MIC values are among the highest reported to date for natural products against these phytopathogens. Subsequent ex situ testing of the COS-G. lucidum conjugate complex on artificially inoculated Q. ilex excised stems resulted in high protection against P. cinnamomi at a dose of 782 µg·mL−1. These findings support the potential utilization of this resource from the dehesa ecosystem to protect the holm oak, aligning with sustainable and circular economy approaches.