bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Phosphorylated avocado seed: A renewable biomaterial for preparing a flame retardant biofiller
Authors: Zuluaga‐Parra J. David , Ramos‐deValle Luis F. , Sánchez‐Valdes Saul , Torres‐Lubián Jose Roman , Rodriguez‐Fernadez Oliverio S. , Hernández‐Hernández Ernesto , da Silva Luciano , Rodríguez‐Gonzalez Jose Alberto , Borjas‐Ramos Javier J. , Vázquez‐Rodríguez Sofia , Uribe‐Calderón Jorge A. 
Published: November 2021

SummaryAvocado seed was first washed, dehydrated, and pulverized, and thereafter, chemically modified with phosphoric acid in the presence of urea, to obtain a low density and sustainable fire retarding filler. Infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used in order to determine the resulting chemical structure and confirm the presence of the proposed functional groups. In addition, scanning electron microscopy and elemental analysis were used to establish the resulting morphological changes, as well as the elements present on the modified material. Thermogravimetric analysis was also carried out in order to establish the thermal stability of the material and predict the effect on the flame retardancy due to the mentioned chemical modification. It was also determined that chemical modification greatly increased the thermal stability of the avocado seed. The flame‐retardant effect of the modified avocado seed was assessed in polyethylene/ethylene‐vinyl‐acetate (PE/EVA) composites via cone calorimeter tests. It was observed by DSC, that the incorporation of avocado seed, does not affect the melting temperature of the PE/EVA polymer blend. The results showed that the modified avocado seed decreased the peak of the heat release rate (pHRR) by 54% and the total heat released (THR) by 15%. The UL‐94 and LOI tests of the modified avocado biocomposites showed an improvement in the flame retardant properties, and reached a UL‐94 V‐1 classification. Tensile tests showed that the bio‐composites with unmodified and modified avocado seed exhibit similar tensile strength and modulus than the LDPE/EVA blend, but a lower elongation. These results suggest that phosphorylated avocado seed could be a good option as a renewable biofiller for polymer composites with enhanced flame‐retardant properties.
Likely behaviours of people under emergency circumstances in hospitals: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Abouee‐Mehrizi Amirreza , Alizadeh Seyed Shamseddin , Masoomi Mohammadsadegh , Barazandeh‐Asl Ramin 
Published: November 2021

AbstractHospitals, which play an important role in reducing injuries and casualties, must be prepared for a crowd of people in emergencies. The present study aimed to survey and collect data on the likely behaviours of people under emergency circumstances in hospitals in order to improve emergency response plans in these places. The target population was all individuals present in three hospitals from Tabriz (including patients, companions and treatment staff), and the sample size was 1145. A questionnaire was administered to this population in order to collect the data. The comparison of different groups was performed based on participants' gender and their role. Results showed that, in general, everyone in the surveyed hospitals is more likely to choose a reactive strategy rather than a preventive strategy as well as a cooperative strategy rather than a competitive strategy, and less willing to use lifts during emergencies. Comparing different strategies utilized by different people resulting from ordered logit models revealed that there are significant differences in evacuation strategies between men and women as well as between treatment staff and all respondents. Men were more likely to select a proactive strategy rather than a reactive strategy compared to women. Also, the treatment staff group were more likely to employ a cooperative strategy and less likely to use a competitive strategy compared to other people. In view of the role of hospitals, the results of this study can play a major role in policy‐making to predict the behaviour of different individuals in healthcare settings and perform needs assessment to consider the necessary facilities or raining required for different people in various countries.
Entropy analysis of unsteady MHD three‐dimensional flow of Williamson nanofluid over a convectively heated stretching sheet
Authors: Mandal Susanta , Shit Gopal Chandra 
Published: November 2021

AbstractThis article addresses an investigation of the entropy analysis of Williamson nanofluid flow in the presence of gyrotactic microorganisms by considering variable viscosity and thermal conductivity over a convectively heated bidirectionally stretchable surface. Heat and mass transfer phenomena have been incorporated by taking into account the thermal radiation, heat source or sink, viscous dissipation, Brownian motion, and thermophoretic effects. The representing equations are nonlinear coupled partial differential equations and these equations are shaped into a set of ordinary differential equations via a suitable similarity transformation. The arising set of ordinary differential equations was then worked out by adopting a well‐known scheme, namely the shooting method along with the Runge‐Kutta‐Felberge integration technique. The effects of flow and heat transfer controlling parameters on the solution variables are depicted and analyzed through the graphical presentation. The survey finds that magnifying viscosity parameter, Weissenberg number representing the non‐Newtonian Williamson parameter cause to retard the velocity field in both the directions and thermal conductivity parameter causes to reduce fluid temperature. The study also recognizes that enhancing magnetic parameters and thermal conductivity parameters slow down the heat transfer rate. The entropy production of the system is estimated through the Bejan number. It is noticeable that the Bejan number is eminently dependent on the heat generation parameter, thermal radiation parameter, viscosity parameter, thermal conductivity parameter, and Biot number. The skillful accomplishment of the present heat and mass transfer system is achieved through the exteriorized choice of the pertinent parameters.
Hydrological behaviour of an ice‐layered snowpack in a non‐mountainous environment
Authors: Paquotte Andrea , Baraer Michel 
Published: November 2021

AbstractThe increased frequency of mild rain‐on‐snow (R.O.S.) events in cold regions associated with climate change is projected to affect snowpack structure and hydrological behaviour. The ice layers that form in a cold snowpack when R.O.S. events occur have been shown to influence flowthrough processes and liquid water retention, with consequences for winter floods, groundwater recharge, and water resources management. This study explores interconnections between meteorological conditions, ice layer formation, and lateral flows during R.O.S. events throughout the 2018–2019 winter in meridional Quebec, Canada. Automated hydro‐meteorological measurements, such as water availability for runoff, snow water equivalent, and snowpit observations, are used to compute water and energy balances, making it possible to characterize a snowpack's internal conditions and flowthrough regimes. For compatibility assessment, water and energy balances‐based flowthrough scenarios are then compared to different hydro‐meteorological variables', such as water table or streamlet water levels. The results show an association between highly variable meteorological conditions, frequent R.O.S. events, and ice layer formation. Lateral flows were mainly observed during the early stage of the ablation period. The hydrologically significant lateral flows observed in the study are associated with winter conditions that are predicted to become more frequent in a changing climate, stressing the need for further evaluation of their potential impact at the watershed scale.
Structural modulation and assembling of metal halide perovskites for solar cells and light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Liu Xixia , Zhang Zhaofu , Lin Fen , Cheng Yuanhang 
Published: November 2021

AbstractMetal halide perovskites possess appealing optoelectronic properties and have been widely applied for solar energy harvesting and light emitting. Although perovskite solar cells (PeSCs) and perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have been developed rapidly in recent years, there are still no universal rules for the selection of perovskites to achieve high‐performance optoelectronic devices. In this review, the working mechanisms of PeSCs and PeLEDs are first demonstrated with the discussion on the factors which determine the device performance. We then examine the optoelectronic properties of perovskites with structures modulated from 3D, 2D, 1D to 0D, and analyze the corresponding structure‐property relationships in terms of photo‐electric and electric‐photo conversion processes. Based on the unique optoelectronic properties of structurally modulated perovskites, we put forward the concept of structural assembling engineering that integrate the merits of different types of perovskites within one matrix and elaborate their excellent properties for applications of both PeSCs and PeLEDs. Finally, we discuss the potential challenges and provide our perspectives on the structural assembling engineering of perovskites for future optoelectronic applications. image
Front Cover Image
Authors: Wang Chunfeng , Ma Ronghua , Peng Dengfeng , Liu Xianhu , Li Jing , Jin Boru , Shan Aixian , Fu Yu , Dong Lin , Gao Wenchao , Wang Zhong Lin , Pan Caofeng 
Published: November 2021

Turning waste into treasure: conversion of waste egg‐shells to high‐performance mechanoluminescent hybrid for energy‐related applications. (DOI: 10.1002/inf2.12250)image
Multifunctional plasmonic gold nanostars for cancer diagnostic and therapeutic applications
Authors: Pearl Wrenit Gem , Perevedentseva Elena V. , Karmenyan Artashes V. , Khanadeev Vitaly A. , Wu Sheng‐Yun , Ma Yuan‐Ron , Khlebtsov Nikolai G. , Cheng Chia‐Liang 
Published: November 2021

AbstractGold nanostar (AuNSt) has gained great attention in bioimaging and cancer therapy due to their tunable surface plasmon resonance across the visible‐near infrared range. Photothermal treatment and imaging capabilities including fluorescence lifetime imaging at two‐photon excitation (TP‐FLIM) and dark‐field microscopic imaging are considered in this work. Two types of AuNSts having plasmon absorption peaks centred at 600 and 750 nm wavelength were synthesized and studied. Both NSts exhibited low cytotoxicity on A549 human lung carcinoma cells. A strong emission at two‐photon excitation was observed for both NSts, well‐distinguishable from lifetimes of bio‐object autofluorescence. High efficiency in raising the temperature in the NSts environment with the irradiation of near infrared, AuNSts triggered photothermal effect. The decreased cell viability of A549 observed via MTT test and the cell membrane damaging was demonstrated with trypan blue staining. These results suggest AuNSts can be agents with tunable plasmonic properties for imaging and photothermal therapy.
Fabrication and characterization of a bioactive polymethylmethacrylate‐based porous cement loaded with strontium/calcium apatite nanoparticles
Authors: Tomazela Larissa , Cruz Marcos Antônio Eufrásio , Nascimento Larissa Aine , Fagundes Cecilia C. , da Veiga Márcia Andreia Mesquita S. , Zamarioli Ariane , Bottini Massimo , Ciancaglini Pietro , Brassesco Maria Sol , Engel Edgard E. , Ramos Ana Paula 
Published: November 2021

AbstractPolymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)‐based cements are used for bone reparation due to their biocompatibility, suitable mechanical properties, and mouldability. However, these materials suffer from high exothermic polymerization and poor bioactivity, which can cause the formation of fibrous tissue around the implant and aseptic loosening. Herein, we tackled these problems by adding Sr2+‐substituted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (NPs) and a porogenic compound to the formulations, thus creating a microenvironment suitable for the proliferation of osteoblasts. The NPs resembled the structure of the bone's apatite and enabled the controlled release of Sr2+. Trends in the X‐ray patterns and infrared spectra confirmed that Sr2+ replaced Ca2+ in the whole composition range of the NPs. The inclusion of an effervescent additive reduced the polymerization temperature and lead to the formation of highly porous cement exhibiting mechanical properties comparable to the trabecular bone. The formation of an opened and interconnected matrix allowed osteoblasts to penetrate the cement structure. Most importantly, the gas formation confined the NPs at the surface of the pores, guaranteeing the controlled delivery of Sr2+ within a concentration sufficient to maintain osteoblast viability. Additionally, the cement was able to form apatite when immersed into simulated body fluids, further increasing its bioactivity. Therefore, we offer a formulation of PMMA cement with improved in vitro performance supported by enhanced bioactivity, increased osteoblast viability and deposition of mineralized matrix assigned to the loading with Sr2+‐substituted hydroxyapatite NPs and the creation of an interconnected porous structure. Altogether, our results hold promise for enhanced bone reparation guided by PMMA cements.
Efficacy of marine biomolecules on angiogenesis by targeting hypoxia inducible factor/vascular endothelial growth factor signaling in zebrafish model
Authors: Nathan Jhansi , Ramachandran Arunkumar 
Published: November 2021

AbstractMarine resources are notably explored for their unique biomolecules that have been designed to be drug targets for their immense potential against various pathologies. These biomolecules are mostly secondary metabolites from different species that include sponges, tunicates, echinoderms, ascidians, algae, and marine symbionts. Among the various biological activities of the marine biomolecules, antiangiogenic property has gained much significance in alternate therapy for treatment against cancer. Hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are the prime signaling pathways related to angiogenesis that are exclusively designated as markers for critical selection of novel inhibitors. This is mainly due to their importance in tumor induction and regulatory control over other interlinked pathways involved in cancer. Small molecular drug screening using the zebrafish model has been an advantage in cancer research in recent times. This review addresses the importance of marine biomolecules and their antiangiogenic efficacy by targeting HIF/VEGF pathways experimented in the zebrafish model in the last decade. Thus, it would provide more clear insights into the role of biomolecules in alternative cancer therapy.
Protective effects of 6‐gingerol on 6‐hydroxydopamine‐induced apoptosis in PC12 cells through modulation of SAPK/JNK and survivin activation
Authors: Rezazadeh‐Shojaee Farzaneh‐Sadat , Ramazani Elham , Kasaian Jamal , Tayarani‐Najaran Zahra 
Published: November 2021

AbstractDue to many therapeutic effects, Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is the most widely used spice around the world, including in Iran. Due to its potent anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects, ginger may protect against neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we investigated the effects of 6‐gingerol (the main bioactive compound in ginger) on 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA)‐induced cell death in PC12 cells. Cell viability, cell apoptosis, and stress‐activated protein kinase/c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK), and survivin expression were measured using resazurin, propidium iodide (PI) and flow cytometry, and western blot analysis. 6‐OHDA (100 μM) reduced the cell viability, increased apoptosis, increased the active form of SAPK/JNK, and decreased survivin protein level in PC12 exposed cells in a dose and time‐dependent manner. Pretreatment with 6‐gingerol significantly increased the viability and reduced apoptosis (2.5 and 5 µM). Also, pretreatment with 6‐gingerol at 2.5 and 5 µM increased survivin whereas, 6‐gingerol at 2.5 µM reduced (P‐SAPK/JNK):(SAPK/JNK) levels to a level near that of the related control. According to the results, 6‐gingerol blocks 6‐OHDA‐induced cell damage by suppressing oxidative stress and anti‐apoptotic activity. Thus, 6‐gingerol may process beneficial protective effects in slowing the progression of Parkinson's disease.
Lutein induces an inhibitory effect on the malignant progression of pancreatic adenocarcinoma by targeting BAG3/cholesterol homeostasis
Authors: Han Lulu , Song Xiaoming 
Published: November 2021

AbstractPancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a fatal malignancy and patients with PDAC are mostly diagnosed at advanced stages. Lutein is a natural compound that belongs to the non‐vitamin A carotenoids family and has presented antitumor effects on multiple cancer types. However, the function of lutein in PDAC and the mechanisms are not reported. Here, we explored the role of lutein in PDAC progression. Bioinformatic analysis identified that lutein is correlated with PDAC. Lutein suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PANC‐1 cells. The upregulated genes in PDAC patients were identified and the overlap analysis predicted BAG3 as one target of lutein. Lutein repressed BAG3 expression and bioinformatics analysis predicted the interaction between lutein and BAG3. The inhibitory effects of lutein on PANC‐1 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion are reversed by overexpression of BAG3. GSEA analysis identified that cholesterol homeostasis as one of the downstream signaling pathways of BAG3. In conclusion, lutein induced an inhibitory effect on the malignant progression of PDAC by targeting BAG3/cholesterol homeostasis. Lutein may be applied as a promising candidate for PDAC therapy.
Impact of FOXP1 rs2687201 genetic variant on the susceptibility to HCV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma in Egyptians
Authors: Motawi Tarek Mohamed Kamal , Sabry Dina , Shehata Nagwa Ibrahim , William Mira Magdy , Fahim Atef Tadros 
Published: November 2021

AbstractHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitutes a challenging health problem in Egypt due to the high incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Improved understanding of genetic mechanisms underlying the individual predisposition to HCC will lead to enhancements in the early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of this disease. Transcription factor forkhead box P1 (FOXP1) is involved in the cellular processes of proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and longevity. In addition, it has been implicated in hepatic tumorigenesis. The present study explored the association of C/A single‐nucleotide polymorphism in the FOXP1 gene (rs2687201) with HCC susceptibility in HCV Egyptian patients. The study included 108 patients with HCV‐dependant HCC, 86 HCV patients, and 80‐ age and gender‐matched healthy controls. rs2687201 genotyping was performed by allelic discrimination method using TaqMan real‐time PCR assays while FOXP1 gene expression and protein level were determined using qRT‐PCR and enzyme‐linked immunoassay, respectively. Our results revealed a significant association between FOXP1 rs2687201 and HCC risk where (A) allele was significantly more frequent in patients with HCC compared to controls (odds ratio [OR]: 1.88, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17–3.04, p = 0.01) and to HCV patients (OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.62–2.94, p = 0.012). Furthermore, FOXP1 gene and protein expression levels were remarkably higher in (CA + AA) than in CC genotype carriers in a dominant model. The (CA + AA) genotype displayed a significantly shorter overall survival than the CC genotype in HCC patients. In conclusion, FOXP1 gene polymorphism rs2687201 is significantly associated with HCC, but not with HCV infection, in Egyptian patients.
On optimal (Z6m×Z6n,4,1) and (Z2m×Z18n,4,1) difference packings and their related codes
Authors: Chen Jingyuan , Ji Lijun 
Published: November 2021

AbstractWe give a direct construction of a relative difference family for and every prime with . These allow us to construct an optimal difference packing and an optimal difference packing for every pair of positive integers . The corresponding optimal optical orthogonal signature pattern codes are also obtained.
Acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura following Pfizer COVID‐19 vaccination
Authors: Alislambouli Mawaddah , Veras Victoria Andy , Matta Jyoti , Yin Faye 
Published: November 2021

AbstractAcquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP) is a rare disease and has occasionally been described after vaccination, especially against viral agents. We present a case of a patient who presents with the classic pentad of TTP a few days after receiving the first dose of the mRNA Pfizer COVID‐19 vaccine. To our knowledge, this is the second report of a de novo TTP following mRNA Pfizer COVID‐19 vaccination.
The effect of mechanical stress on enthesis homeostasis in a rat Achilles enthesis organ culture model
Authors: Saito Taichi , Nakamichi Ryo , Yoshida Aki , Hiranaka Takaaki , Okazaki Yuki , Nezu Satoshi , Matsuhashi Minami , Shimamura Yasunori , Furumatsu Takayuki , Nishida Keiichiro , Ozaki Toshifumi 
Published: November 2021

AbstractTendons and ligaments are jointed to bones via an enthesis that is essential to the proper function of the muscular and skeletal structures. The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of mechanical stress on the enthesis. We used ex vivo models in organ cultures of rat Achilles tendons with calcaneus including the enthesis. The organ was attached to a mechanical stretching apparatus that can conduct cyclic tensile strain. We made the models of 1‐mm elongation (0.5 Hz, 3% elongation), 2‐mm elongation (0.5 Hz, 5% elongation), and no stress. Histological evaluation by Safranin O staining and Toluidin Blue and Picro Sirius red staining was conducted. Expression of sex‐determining region Y‐box 9 (Sox9), scleraxis (Scx), Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), and matrix metalloproteinase 13 (Mmp13) were examined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate biotin nick end‐labeling and live/dead staining and was conducted for evaluation of the apoptosis and cell viability. The structure of the enthesis was most maintained in the model of 1‐mm elongation. The electronic microscope showed that the enthesis of the no stress model had ill‐defined borders between fibrocartilage and mineralized fibrocartilage, and that calcification of mineralized fibrocartilage occurred in the model of 2‐mm elongation. Sox9 and Scx was upregulated by 1‐mm elongation, whereas Runx2 and Mmp13 were upregulated by 2‐mm elongation. Apoptosis was inhibited by low stress. The results of this study suggested that 1‐mm elongation can maintain the structure of the enthesis, while 2‐mm elongation promotes degenerative changes.