bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphorus-Rich Ash from Poultry Manure Combustion in a Fluidized Bed Reactor
Authors: Adamczyk Zdzisław , Cempa Magdalena , Białecka Barbara
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to examine the physico-chemical and phase characteristics of ash obtained in the process of the combustion of Polish poultry manure in a laboratory reactor with a bubbling fluidized bed. Three experiments, differing in the grain size and morphology of the raw material, the method of its dosing and the type of fluidized bed, were carried out. The contents of the main chemical components and trace elements in the obtained ash samples were determined using WDXRF, and the phase composition was examined through the XRD method. The morphology and the chemical composition of grains in a given micro-area using the SEM/EDS method were also investigated. The highest concentration of phosphorus (from 28.07% wt. to 29.71% wt. as P2O5 equivalent), the highest proportion of amorphous substance (from 56.7% wt. to 59.0% wt.) and the lowest content of unburned organic substance (LOI from 6.42% to 9.16%) (i.e., the best process efficiency), was obtained for the experiment in which the starting bed was quartz sand and poultry manure was fed to the reactor in the form of pellets. It has been calculated that in this case, the amorphous phase contains more than half of the phosphorus. The method of carrying out the combustion process has a significant impact on the phase composition and, consequently, on the availability of phosphorus.
Distribution, Separation and Characterisation of Valuable Heavy Minerals from the Brahmaputra River Basin, Kurigram District, Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Aminur , Pownceby Mark I. , Tardio James , Sparrow Graham J. , Haque Nawshad , Hasan Fuad
Published: July 2021

Bangladesh’s heavy minerals deposits in river systems remain largely unexplored with past research restricted to beach placer deposits along the south-eastern coastline of the country. In this study, 64 samples were collected from stable sand bars from the northern Brahmaputra River. The average total heavy minerals (THM) from all sample sites was 10.73 wt%, with the THM concentrations generally highest at the outermost edges of the river and lowest within the mid-channel regions. There was no variation in THM content from north (upstream) to south (downstream). Valuable heavy minerals (VHMs) magnetite, ilmenite, garnet and zircon made up around 25–30 wt% of the THM content, with other heavy minerals including amphibole, pyroxene, kyanite, sillimanite, monazite, apatite and xenotime making up the remaining 70–75 wt%. A VHM distribution map showed that the upstream division of the studied area appeared to be the most prospective for valuable heavy minerals. A bench scale heavy mineral sands beneficiation flowsheet involving unit processes employing gravity, magnetic and electrostatic properties was designed and based on a detailed characterisation and phase analysis of the resulting fractions, it was determined that VHMs made up ~2 wt% of the material recovered. Of these, garnet and ilmenite made up the bulk of the VHMs at levels of 0.88 and 0.51 wt%, respectively, with recoveries of >83%. Characterisation of the concentrates showed that further refinement of the processing conditions is required to generate concentrates that are potentially suitable for commercial applications.
Geochemistry and Geochronology of Early Paleozoic Intrusive Rocks in the Terra Nova Bay Area, Northern Victoria Land, Antarctica
Authors: Kim Daeyeong , Yi Sang-Bong , Kim Hyeoncheol , Kim Taehwan , Kim Taehoon , Lee Jong Ik
Published: July 2021

The Terra Nova Intrusive Complex (TNIC) in northern Victoria Land, Antarctica, results from widespread magmatism during the Early Paleozoic Ross Orogeny. According to field relationships, geochemistry, and geochronology data, the northern part of the TNIC comprises the Browning Intrusive Unit (BIU), which is associated with an arc crustal melting including migmatization of the Wilson Metamorphic Complex, and the later Campbell Intrusive Unit (CIU), which is attributed to the mantle and crustal melting processes. Zircon U-Pb ages suggest Late Neoproterozoic to Early Cambrian protolith with Late Cambrian metamorphism (502 ± 15 Ma) in the WMC, Late Cambrian formation (~500 Ma) of the BIU, and Early Ordovician formation (~480–470 Ma) of the CIU. Sr-Nd isotopic characteristics of the BIU indicate predominant crustal component (εNd(t) = −8.7 to −8.9), whereas those of the CIU reflect both mantle (εNd(t) = 1.8 to 1.6) and crustal (εNd(t) = −4.0 to −7.5) compositions. These results suggest that the northern TNIC magmatism occurring at ~500–470 Ma originated from partial melting of the mantle–mafic crust components and mixing with felsic crust components. By integrating the results with previous studies, the TNIC is considered to be formed by a combination of the mantle and mafic crust melting, crustal assimilation, felsic crust melting, and magma mixing during the Ross Orogeny.
A Brief Updated Review of Advances to Enhance Resveratrol’s Bioavailability
Authors: de Vries Konrad , Strydom Morné , Steenkamp Vanessa
Published: July 2021

Resveratrol (RES) has a low bioavailability. This limitation was addressed in an earlier review and several recommendations were offered. A literature search was conducted in order to determine the extent of the research that was conducted in line with these recommendations, along with new developments in this field. Most of the identified studies were pre-clinical and confirmed the heightened activity of RES analogues compared to their parent compound. Although this has provided additional scientific kudos for these compounds and has strengthened their potential to be developed into phytopharmaceutical products, clinical trials designed to confirm this increased activity remain lacking and are warranted.
Identification of Rotundone as an Important Contributor to the Flavor of Oak-Aged Spirits
Authors: Genthner-Kreger Elizabeth , Cadwallader Keith R.
Published: July 2021

Experiments were conducted to identify a compound responsible for a spicy, woody, incense-like odor note in oak-aged spirits. The target compound was extracted from oak wood and various oak-aged spirits and analyzed by multidimensional (heart-cut) gas chromatography–mass spectrometry–olfactometry (MD–GC–MS–O), and was unambiguously identified as the sesquiterpene ketone, 5-isopropenyl-3,8-dimethyl-3,4,5,6,7,8-hexadydro-1(2H)-azulenone (rotundone). Quantitation of the trace-level target compound was done by stable isotope dilution analysis (SIDA) in a variety of oak-aged spirits, including bourbon, rye, Tennessee whiskey, scotch, rum, and tequila. The content of rotundone was found to increase as a function of years of barrel aging for 4-, 8-, and 12-year-old bourbons obtained from the same manufacturer, thus confirming its origin to be from oak. In addition, odor-activity values (OAVs) were compared for selected potent odorants, including rotundone, in the same 4-, 8-, and 12-year-old bourbons, which indicated the relative importance of rotundone in the overall flavor of oak-aged spirits.
Development of a Water Matrix Certified Reference Material for Volatile Organic Compounds Analysis in Water
Authors: Fang Liping , Huang Linyan , Yang Gang , Jiang Yang , Liu Haiping , Lu Bingwen , Zhao Yaxian , Tian Wen
Published: July 2021

Water matrix certified reference material (MCRM) of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is used to provide quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) during the analysis of VOCs in water. In this research, a water MCRM of 28 VOCs was developed using a “reconstitution” approach by adding VOCs spiking, methanol solution into pure water immediately prior to analysis. The VOCs spiking solution was prepared gravimetrically by dividing 28 VOCs into seven groups, then based on ISO Guide 35, using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to investigate the homogeneity and long-term stability. The studies of homogeneity and long-term stability indicated that the batch of VOCs spiking solution was homogeneous and stable at room temperature for at least 15 months. Moreover, the water MCRM of 28 VOCs was certified by a network of nine competent laboratories, and the certified values and expanded uncertainties of 28 VOCs ranged from 6.2 to 17 μg/L and 0.5 to 5.3 μg/L, respectively.
Chemical Profile, Antioxidant Capacity, and Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils Extracted from Three Different Varieties (Moldoveanca 4, Vis Magic 10, and Alba 7) of Lavandula angustifolia
Authors: Bogdan Mihaela Alexandra , Bungau Simona , Tit Delia Mirela , Zaha Dana Carmen , Nechifor Aurelia Cristina , Behl Tapan , Chambre Dorina , Lupitu Andreea Ioana , Copolovici Lucian , Copolovici Dana Maria
Published: July 2021

Chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and antimicrobial activity of lavender essential oils (LEOs) extracted from three different varieties of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. (1-Moldoveanca 4, 2-Vis magic 10, and 3-Alba 7) have been determined. These plants previously patented in the Republic of Moldova were cultivated in an organic agriculture system in the northeastern part of Romania and then harvested in 3 consecutive years (2017–2019) to obtain the essential oils. From the inflorescences in the complete flowering stage, the LEOs were extracted by hydrodistillation. Then, their composition was analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and by Fourier Transformed Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The major identified constituents are as follows: linalool (1: 32.19–46.83%; 2: 29.93–30.97%; 3: 31.97–33.77%), linalyl acetate (1: 17.70–35.18%; 2: 27.55–37.13%; 3: 28.03–35.32%), and terpinen-4-ol (1: 3.63–7.70%; 2: 3.06–7.16%; 3: 3.10–6.53%). The antioxidant capacity as determined by ABTS and DPPH assays indicates inhibition, with the highest activity obtained for LEO var. Alba 7 from 2019. The in vitro antimicrobial activities of the LEOs and combinations were investigated as well, by using the disk diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against the Gram-positive bacterial strain Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538), Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27858), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), the yeast Candida albicans (ATCC 10231), and clinical isolates. Our results have shown that LEOs obtained from the three studied varieties of L. angustifolia manifest significant bactericidal effects against tested microorganisms (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli), and antifungal effects against Candida albicans. The mixture of LEOs (Var. Alba 7) and geranium, respectively, in tea tree EOs, in different ratios, showed a significant enhancement of the antibacterial effect against all the studied strains, except Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
The Influence of HCl Concentration on the Rate of the Hydrolysis–Condensation Reaction of Phenyltrichlorosilane and the Yield of (Tetrahydroxy)(Tetraphenyl)Cyclotetrasiloxanes, Synthesis of All Its Geometrical Isomers and Thermal Self-Condensation of Them under “Pseudo”-Equilibrium Conditions
Authors: Petrova Irina M. , Lyakhovetsky Yury I. , Ikonnikov Nikolai S. , Makarova Nataliya N.
Published: July 2021

The rate of hydrolysis–condensation reaction of phenyltrichlorosilane in water-acetone solutions and the product yields were shown to significantly depend on the concentration of HCl (CHCl) in the solutions. The main product of the reaction was all-cis-(tetrahydroxy)(tetraphenyl)cyclotetrasiloxane. This was different from the earlier published results of analogous reactions of m-tolylSiCl3, m-ClPhSiCl3, and α-naphtylSiCl, in which some products of other types were formed. For example, trans-1,1,3,3-tetrahydroxy-1,3-di-α-naphtyldisiloxane was obtained in the case of α-naphtylSiCl3. All-cis-(tetrahydroxy)(tetraphenyl)cyclotetrasiloxane was treated in acetone with HCl to give the other three geometric isomers (cis-cis-trans-, cis-trans-, and all-trans-). The thermal self-condensation of these four isomers under “pseudo”-equilibrium conditions (under atmospheric pressure) was investigated in different solvents, in quartz or molybdenum glass flasks. The compositions of the products were monitored by APCI-MS and 29Si NMR spectroscopy. It was shown that all-cis- and cis-cis-trans-isomers in toluene or anisole mostly gave the cage-like Ph-T8,10,12,14 and uncompleted cage-like Ph-T10,12OSi(HO)Ph compounds. In contrast to these two isomers, the cis-trans–isomer in toluene mainly formed dimers with the loss of one or two molecules of water. However, in acetonitrile, significant amounts of Ph-T10,12 and Ph-T10,12OSi(HO)Ph species were formed along with the dimers. All-trans-isomer did not enter into the reaction at all.
Multifunctional Gold Nanorod for Therapeutic Applications and Pharmaceutical Delivery Considering Cellular Metabolic Responses, Oxidative Stress and Cellular Longevity
Authors: Mousavi Seyyed Mojtaba , Hashemi Seyyed Alireza , Mazraedoost Sargol , Yousefi Khadije , Gholami Ahmad , Behbudi Gity , Ramakrishna Seeram , Omidifar Navid , Alizadeh Ali , Chiang Wei-Hung
Published: July 2021

Multifunctional gold nanorods (GNR) have drawn growing interest in biomedical fields because of their excellent biocompatibility, ease of alteration, and special optical properties. The great advantage of using GNR in medicine is their application to Photothermal therapy (PPTT), which is possible thanks to their ability to turn luminous energy into heat to cause cellular hyperthermia. For this purpose, the relevant articles between 1988 and 2020 were searched in databases such as John Wiley, Free paper, Scopus, Science Direct, and Springer to obtain the latest findings on multifunctional gold nanorods for therapeutic applications and pharmaceutical delivery. In this article, we review recent progress in diagnostic and therapeutic applications of multifunctional GNR, highlighting new information about their toxicity to various cellular categories, oxidative stress, cellular longevity, and their metabolic effects, such as the effect on the energy cycles and genetic structures. The methods for the synthesis and functionalization of GNR were surveyed. This review includes new information about GNR toxicity to various cellular categories and their metabolic effects.
Daily Rhythm of Fractal Cardiac Dynamics Links to Weight Loss Resistance: Interaction with CLOCK 3111T/C Genetic Variant
Authors: Yang Hui-Wen , Garaulet Marta , Li Peng , Bandin Cristina , Lin Chen , Lo Men-Tzung , Hu Kun
Published: July 2021

The effectiveness of weight loss treatment displays dramatic inter-individual variabilities, even with well-controlled energy intake/expenditure. This study aimed to determine the association between daily rhythms of cardiac autonomic control and weight loss efficiency and to explore the potential relevance to weight loss resistance in humans carrying the genetic variant C at CLOCK 3111T/C. A total of 39 overweight/obese Caucasian women (20 CLOCK 3111C carriers and 19 non-carriers) completed a behaviour–dietary obesity treatment of ~20 weeks, during which body weight was assessed weekly. Ambulatory electrocardiographic data were continuously collected for up to 3.5 days and used to quantify the daily rhythm of fractal cardiac dynamics (FCD), a non-linear measure of autonomic function. FCD showed a 24 h rhythm (p < 0.001). Independent of energy intake and physical activity level, faster weight loss was observed in individuals with the phase (peak) of the rhythm between ~2–8 p.m. and with a larger amplitude. Interestingly, the phase effect was significant only in C carriers (p = 0.008), while the amplitude effect was only significant in TT carriers (p < 0.0001). The daily rhythm of FCD and CLOCK 3111T/C genotype is linked to weight loss response interactively, suggesting complex interactions between the genetics of the circadian clock, the daily rhythm of autonomic control, and energy balance control.
Gastrointestinal Digestion of a Grape Pomace Extract: Impact on Intestinal Barrier Permeability and Interaction with Gut Microbiome
Authors: Taladrid Diego , González de Llano Dolores , Zorraquín-Peña Irene , Tamargo Alba , Silva Mariana , Molinero Natalia , Moreno-Arribas M. Victoria , Bartolomé Begoña
Published: July 2021

Grape pomace (GP) is a winemaking by-product rich in polyphenols and fibre. Supplementation with GP extracts has shown potential benefits against oxidative stress- and inflammation-related pathologies. As a new nutritional target, this paper explores the impact of the ingestion of a grape pomace extract on intestinal barrier functionality. A GP extract was sequentially subjected to gastrointestinal and colonic digestion using the dynamic gastrointestinal simulator (simgi®). This generated two simulated fluids: intestinal-digested extract (IDE) and colonic-digested extract (CDE). The effects of these two fluids on paracellular permeability and the expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins (i.e., zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin) were assessed in Caco-2-cell monolayers grown in Transwell® inserts. The IDE fluid significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the paracellular transport of FITC-dextran with respect to the control, whereas no significant differences (p > 0.05) were found for CDE, which could be due, at least partially, to the pro-leaky effect of the colonic digestion medium. Accordant slight increases in the mRNA levels of both ZO-1 and occludin were observed for IDE, but without statistical significance. Additionally, the colonic fermentation of the GP extract promoted the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and phenolic metabolites and led to changes in the relative abundance of some bacteria that might affect paracellular permeability. Overall, this paper reports first trends about the effects of grape pomace extracts on intestinal permeability that would require further confirmation in future experiments.
Dietary Modelling to Explore the Impact of Potassium Chloride Replacement for Sodium in Bread for Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Morrison Rebecca , Stanford Jordan , Lambert Kelly
Published: July 2021

Food manufacturers are increasingly substituting potassium chloride (KCl) in food products so as to reduce the sodium chloride content. Bread and bread products are common staple foods in many Western households and are a target for recipe reformulation using KCl. Given that chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a medical condition of global importance that requires dietary potassium restriction in the later stages, we sought to evaluate the impact and safety of varying levels of KCl substitution in bread products. We undertook a secondary analysis of dietary data from the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey 2011–2012 for 12,152 participants (154 participants with CKD). The sodium chloride content in bread and bread-based products was substituted with 20%, 30%, and 40% of KCl. The contribution of these alterations in the dietary potassium intake to the total daily potassium intake were then examined. The replacement of sodium in bread with varying amounts of KCl (20%, 30%, and 40%) resulted in one third of people with CKD exceeding the safe limits for dietary potassium consumption (31.8%, 32.6%, and 33%, respectively). KCl substitution in staple foods such as bread and bread products have serious and potentially fatal consequences for people who need to restrict dietary potassium. Improved food labelling is required for consumers to avoid excessive consumption.
Weight Loss Strategies and the Risk of Skeletal Muscle Mass Loss
Authors: McCarthy David , Berg Aloys
Published: July 2021

With energy intake restriction and exercise remaining the key diet and lifestyle approaches to weight loss, this is not without potential negative implications for body composition, metabolic health, and quality and quantity of life. Ideally, weight loss should be derived almost exclusively from the fat mass compartment as this is the main driver of metabolic disease, however, several studies have shown that there is an accompanying loss of tissue from the fat-free compartment, especially skeletal muscle. Population groups including post-menopausal women, the elderly, those with metabolic disease and athletes may be particularly at risk of skeletal muscle loss when following a weight management programme. Research studies that have addressed this issue across a range of population groups are reviewed with a focus upon the contribution of resistance and endurance forms of exercise and a higher intake dietary protein above the current guideline of 0.8 g/kg body weight/day. While findings can be contradictory, overall, the consensus appears that fat-free and skeletal muscle masses can be preserved, albeit to varying degrees by including both forms of exercise (but especially resistance forms) in the weight management intervention. Equally, higher intakes of protein can protect loss of these body compartments, acting either separately or synergistically with exercise. Elderly individuals in particular may benefit most from this approach. Thus, the evidence supports the recommendations for intakes of protein above the current guidelines of 0.8 g/kg body weight/d for the healthy elderly population to also be incorporated into the dietary prescription for weight management in this age group.
Mechanisms of Glucose Absorption in the Small Intestine in Health and Metabolic Diseases and Their Role in Appetite Regulation
Authors: Gromova Lyudmila V. , Fetissov Serguei O. , Gruzdkov Andrey A.
Published: July 2021

The worldwide prevalence of metabolic diseases such as obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes shows an upward trend in recent decades. A characteristic feature of these diseases is hyperglycemia which can be associated with hyperphagia. Absorption of glucose in the small intestine physiologically contributes to the regulation of blood glucose levels, and hence, appears as a putative target for treatment of hyperglycemia. In fact, recent progress in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of glucose absorption in the gut and its reabsorption in the kidney helped to develop a new strategy of diabetes treatment. Changes in blood glucose levels are also involved in regulation of appetite, suggesting that glucose absorption may be relevant to hyperphagia in metabolic diseases. In this review we discuss the mechanisms of glucose absorption in the small intestine in physiological conditions and their alterations in metabolic diseases as well as their relevance to the regulation of appetite. The key role of SGLT1 transporter in intestinal glucose absorption in both physiological conditions and in diabetes was clearly established. We conclude that although inhibition of small intestinal glucose absorption represents a valuable target for the treatment of hyperglycemia, it is not always suitable for the treatment of hyperphagia. In fact, independent regulation of glucose absorption and appetite requires a more complex approach for the treatment of metabolic diseases.
Dieting and Disinhibited Eating Patterns in Adult Women with Normal Body Weight: Does Rumination Matter?
Authors: Waliłko Justyna , Bronowicka Paulina , He Jinbo , Brytek-Matera Anna
Published: July 2021

Dieting and disinhibited eating patterns are presented in both clinical and nonclinical samples. Repetitive negative thinking (i.e., rumination) may lead to maladaptive eating behaviors. While numerous studies have focused on dieting and disinhibited eating behaviors in clinical samples, less is known about these behaviors in nonclinical samples with normal body weight. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore how dieting, uncontrolled eating and emotional eating are related to rumination in adult women with normal body weight. One hundred eighty-eight women (Mage = 29.46 ± 8.94; MBMI = 23.16 ± 4.04) were involved in the current study. The Eating Attitudes Test, the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-R18 and the Perseverative Thinking Questionnaire were administered to the participants. The results showed that repetitive negative thinking was a partial mediator in the relationship between dieting and uncontrolled eating, as well as in the relationship between dieting and emotional eating. Targeting repetitive negative thinking may be important for reducing disinhibited eating patterns in women with normal body weight.
Effects of Bergamot Polyphenols on Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Maiuolo Jessica , Carresi Cristina , Gliozzi Micaela , Musolino Vincenzo , Scarano Federica , Coppoletta Anna Rita , Guarnieri Lorenza , Nucera Saverio , Scicchitano Miriam , Bosco Francesca , Ruga Stefano , Zito Maria Caterina , Macri Roberta , Cardamone Antonio , Serra Maria , Mollace Rocco , Tavernese Annamaria , Mollace Vincenzo
Published: July 2021

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death and disability in the Western world. In order to safeguard the structure and the functionality of the myocardium, it is extremely important to adequately support the cardiomyocytes. Two cellular organelles of cardiomyocytes are essential for cell survival and to ensure proper functioning of the myocardium: mitochondria and the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Mitochondria are responsible for the energy metabolism of the myocardium, and regulate the processes that can lead to cell death. The sarcoplasmic reticulum preserves the physiological concentration of the calcium ion, and triggers processes to protect the structural and functional integrity of the proteins. The alterations of these organelles can damage myocardial functioning. A proper nutritional balance regarding the intake of macronutrients and micronutrients leads to a significant improvement in the symptoms and consequences of heart disease. In particular, the Mediterranean diet, characterized by a high consumption of plant-based foods, small quantities of red meat, and high quantities of olive oil, reduces and improves the pathological condition of patients with heart failure. In addition, nutritional support and nutraceutical supplementation in patients who develop heart failure can contribute to the protection of the failing myocardium. Since polyphenols have numerous beneficial properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, this review gathers what is known about the beneficial effects of polyphenol-rich bergamot fruit on the cardiovascular system. In particular, the role of bergamot polyphenols in mitochondrial and sarcoplasmic dysfunctions in diabetic cardiomyopathy is reported.
Complementary Feeding: Recommendations for the Introduction of Allergenic Foods and Gluten in the Preterm Infant
Authors: Chiale Federica , Maggiora Elena , Aceti Arianna , Liotto Nadia , Coscia Alessandra , Peila Chiara , Baldassarre Maria Elisabetta , Bertino Enrico , Cresi Francesco
Published: July 2021

Background: The aim of this systematic review is to analyze the available literature on the introduction of allergenic foods and gluten among preterm infants. Methods: A systematic review of published studies concerning the introduction of gluten and allergenic foods in preterm infants was performed on PubMed and on the Cochrane Library. Results: Of the 174 PubMed results, 15 papers were considered suitable for the review. A total of 83 records were identified through the Cochrane Library search; eight papers were included in the review. Additional papers were identified from the reference lists of included studies. A secondary search was conducted on the same databases to find recommendations and advice regarding healthy full-term infants that could be translated to preterm infants. Therefore, 59 additional papers were included in the review. Conclusions: Current guidelines for the introduction of solid food cannot be directly transposed to preterm infants. Further research is needed to provide evidence-based guidelines regarding weaning in preterm infants. To date, we can suggest that in preterm infants allergenic foods and gluten may be introduced when complementary feeding is started, any time after 4 months of corrected age, avoiding delayed introduction and irrespective of infants’ relative risk of developing allergy. Avoiding large amounts of gluten during the first few weeks after gluten introduction and during infancy is advised, despite limited evidence to support this recommendation.
Gamification for the Improvement of Diet, Nutritional Habits, and Body Composition in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Suleiman-Martos Nora , García-Lara Rubén A. , Martos-Cabrera María Begoña , Albendín-García Luis , Romero-Béjar José Luis , Cañadas-De la Fuente Guillermo A. , Gómez-Urquiza José L.
Published: July 2021

Currently, one of the main public health problems among children and adolescents is poor adherence to healthy habits, leading to increasingly high rates of obesity and the comorbidities that accompany obesity. Early interventions are necessary, and among them, the use of gamification can be an effective method. The objective was to analyse the effect of game-based interventions (gamification) for improving nutritional habits, knowledge, and changes in body composition. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed in CINAHL, EMBASE, LILACS, MEDLINE, SciELO, and Scopus databases, following the PRISMA recommendations. There was no restriction by year of publication or language. Only randomized controlled trials were included. Twenty-three articles were found. After the intervention, the consumption of fruit and vegetables increased, as well as the knowledge on healthy food groups. The means difference showed a higher nutritional knowledge score in the intervention group 95% CI 0.88 (0.05–1.75). No significant effect of gamification was found for body mass index z-score. Gamification could be an effective method to improve nutritional knowledge about healthier nutritional habits. Promoting the development of effective educational tools to support learning related to nutrition is necessary in order to avoid and prevent chronic diseases.
Layer-by-Layer Nanoparticles of Tamoxifen and Resveratrol for Dual Drug Delivery System and Potential Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Al-jubori Ali A. , Sulaiman Ghassan M. , Tawfeeq Amer T. , Mohammed Hamdoon A. , Khan Riaz A. , Mohammed Salman A. A.
Published: July 2021

Nanoparticle development demonstrates use in various physicochemical, biological, and functional properties for biomedical applications, including anti-cancer applications. In the current study, a cancer therapeutic conjugate was produced consisting of tamoxifen (TAM) and resveratrol (RES) by layer-by-layer (LbL) nanoparticles based on lipid-based drug delivery systems and liquid crystalline nanoparticles (LCNPs) coated with multiple layers of positively charged chitosan and negatively charged hyaluronic acid for the evaluation of biocompatibility and therapeutic properties against cancer cells. Multiple techniques characterized the synthesis of TAM/RES–LbL-LCNPs, such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray crystallography (XRD), Zeta potential analysis, particle size analysis, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The in vitro cytotoxic effects of TAM/RES–LbL-LCNPs were investigated against human breast cancer cell line, Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7), and human triple-negative breast cancer cell line, Centre Antoine Lacassagne-51 (CAL-51), using various parameters. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay confirmed that the treatment of cells with TAM/RES–LbL-LCNPs caused a reduction in cell proliferation, and no such inhibition was observed with human normal liver cell line: American Type Culture Collection Cell Line-48 (WRL-68 [ATCC CL-48]). Fluorescent microscopy examined the ability of Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) to bind to TAM/RES–LbL-LCNPs along with their cellular uptake. Apoptosis determination was performed using hematoxylin–eosin and acridine orange–propidium iodide double staining. The expression of P53 and caspase-8 was analyzed by flow cytometry analysis. An in vivo study determined the toxicity of TAM/RES–LbL-LCNPs in mice and assessed the functional marker changes in the liver and kidneys. No significant statistical differences were found for the tested indicators. TAM/RES–LbL-LCNP treatment showed no apparent damages or histopathological abnormalities in the heart, lung, liver, spleen, and kidney histological images. The current findings observed for the first time propose that TAM/RES–LbL-LCNPs provide a new and safer method to use phytochemicals in combinatorial therapy and provide a novel treatment approach against breast cancers.
Cyclodextrin Multicomponent Complexes: Pharmaceutical Applications
Authors: Aiassa Virginia , Garnero Claudia , Longhi Marcela R. , Zoppi Ariana
Published: July 2021

Cyclodextrins (CDs) are naturally available water-soluble cyclic oligosaccharides widely used as carriers in the pharmaceutical industry for their ability to modulate several properties of drugs through the formation of drug–CD complexes. The addition of an auxiliary substance when forming multicomponent complexes is an adequate strategy to enhance complexation efficiency and to facilitate the therapeutic applicability of different drugs. This review discusses multicomponent complexation using amino acids; organic acids and bases; and water-soluble polymers as auxiliary excipients. Special attention is given to improved properties by including information on the solubility, dissolution, permeation, stability and bioavailability of several relevant drugs. In addition, the use of multicomponent CD complexes to enhance therapeutic drug effects is summarized.
Evaluation of Wheat Germplasm for Resistance to Leaf Rust (Puccinia triticina) and Identification of the Sources of Lr Resistance Genes Using Molecular Markers
Authors: Kokhmetova Alma , Rsaliyev Shynbolat , Atishova Makpal , Kumarbayeva Madina , Malysheva Angelina , Keishilov Zhenis , Zhanuzak Danna , Bolatbekova Ardak
Published: July 2021

Leaf rust, caused by Puccinia triticina (Ptr), is a significant disease of spring wheat spread in Kazakhstan. The development of resistant cultivars importantly requires the effective use of leaf rust resistance genes. This study aims to: (i) determine variation in Ptr population using races from the East Kazakhstan, Akmola, and Almaty regions of Kazakhstan; (ii) examine resistance during seedling and adult plant stages; and (iii) identify the sources of Lr resistance genes among the spring wheat collection using molecular markers. Analysis of a mixed population of Ptr identified 25 distinct pathotypes. Analysis of these pathotypes using 16 Thatcher lines that are near-isogenic for leaf rust resistance genes (Lr) showed different virulence patterns, ranging from least virulent “CJF/B” and “JCL/G” to highly virulent “TKT/Q”. Most of the pathotypes were avirulent to Lr9, Lr19, Lr24, and Lr25 and virulent to Lr1, Lr2a, Lr3ka, Lr11, and Lr30. The Ptr population in Kazakhstan is diverse, as indicated by the range of virulence observed in five different races analyzed in this study. The number of genotypes showed high levels of seedling resistance to each of the five Ptr races, thus confirming genotypic diversity. Two genotypes, Stepnaya 62 and Omskaya 37, were highly resistant to almost all five tested Ptr pathotypes. Stepnaya 62, Omskaya 37, Avangard, Kazakhstanskaya rannespelaya, and Kazakhstanskaya 25 were identified as the most stable genotypes for seedling resistance. However, most of the varieties from Kazakhstan were susceptible in the seedling stage. Molecular screening of these genotypes showed contrasting differences in the genes frequencies. Among the 30 entries, 22 carried leaf rust resistance gene Lr1, and two had Lr9 and Lr68. Lr10 and Lr28 were found in three and four cultivars, respectively. Lr19 was detected in Omskaya 37. Two single cultivars separately carried Lr26 and Lr34, while Lr37 was not detected in any genotypes within this study. Field evaluation demonstrated that the most frequent Lr1 gene is ineffective. Kazakhstanskaya 19 and Omskaya 37 had the highest number of resistance genes: three and four Lr genes, respectively. Two gene combinations (Lr1, Lr68) were detected in Erythrospermum 35 and Astana. The result obtained may assist breeders in incorporating effective Lr genes into new cultivars and developing cultivars resistant to leaf rust.
High-Throughput Sequencing Indicates a Novel Marafivirus in Grapevine Showing Vein-Clearing Symptoms
Authors: Fan Xudong , Zhang Zunping , Li Chen , Ren Fang , Hu Guojun , Zhang Baodong , Dong Yafeng
Published: July 2021

A putative new marafivirus was identified in a ‘Jumeigui’ grapevine exhibitting obvious vein-clearing symptoms by high-throughput sequencing, which tentatively named grapevine-associated marafivirus (GaMV). The nearly complete genomic sequence of GaMV was amplified by reverse transcription PCR, and the terminal sequences were determined using the rapid amplification of cDNA ends method. The nearly complete genome of GaMV is 6346 bp long, excluding the poly(A) tail, and shows 51.2–62.3% nucleotide identity with other members of the genera Marafivirus, Maculavirus and Tymovirus in the family Tymoviridae. Additionally, it includes five functional domains homologous to those found in members of these genera. A phylogenetic analysis showed that GaMV clustered with other species-related marafiviruses. These data support GaMV being a representative member of a novel species in the genus Marafivirus. Furthermore, GaMV was graft-transmissible and 26 of 516 (5.04%) grapevine samples from five provinces in China tested positive by reverse transcription PCR. The coat protein of GaMV isolates shared 91.7–100% and 96.7–100% identities at the nt and aa levels, respectively. The coat protein-based phylogenetic trees revealed three well-defined clusters.
Remediation of Punching Shear Failure Using Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) Rods
Authors: Yooprasertchai Ekkachai , Dithaem Ratchanon , Arnamwong Titi , Sahamitmongkol Raktipong , Jadekittichoke Jira , Joyklad Panuwat , Hussain Qudeer
Published: July 2021

The results of an experimental program on shear-strengthening of flat slabs using Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rods are presented. A total of seven specimens were tested under an upward concentric monotonic loading until failure. One specimen served as a control and was tested without any modification. The remaining six specimens were strengthened with post-installed GFRP rods in single (SG), double (DB), and radial (RD) patterns within shear critical parameters around the centric column. The results of this experimental study suggest that GFRP rods are capable of enhancing both the peak load and deformation capacity. Furthermore, brittle failure associated with punching shear failure was successfully avoided by all strengthening patterns. Of all of the patterns, the RD pattern resulted in maximum peak load increase and corresponding deformation capacity while the lowest bound was created by the SG pattern. The results suggested that SG, DB and RD patterns enhanced ultimate loads up to 9.1, 11.3 and 15.7% while corresponding deflections increased up to 109, 136 and 154%. Strain measurement on flexural reinforcement suggested that all strengthened specimens were able to withstand higher longitudinal strains than yield. It was further shown that reducing the spacing between the GFRP rods efficiently enhanced peak loads, nevertheless, neither this change was proportional, nor did it result in an enhanced energy dissipation capacity. In the end, recommendations of American Concrete Institute (ACI) for the shear strength of two-way systems were modified to incorporate the contributions from GFRP rods. The results indicate that the proposed analytical approach provides an excellent match with the experimental results.
Chitosan/Gelatin/PVA Scaffolds for Beta Pancreatic Cell Culture
Authors: Sánchez-Cardona Yesenia , Echeverri-Cuartas Claudia E. , López Marta E. Londoño , Moreno-Castellanos Natalia
Published: July 2021

Chitosan scaffolds based on blending polymers are a common strategy used in tissue engineering. The objective of this study was evaluation the properties of scaffolds based on a ternary blend of chitosan (Chi), gelatin (Ge), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (Chi/Ge/PVA), which were prepared by cycles of freeze-thawing and freeze-drying. It then was used for three-dimensional BRIN-BD11 beta-cells culturing. Weight ratios of Chi/Ge/PVA (1:1:1, 2:2:1, 2:3:1, and 3:2:1) were proposed and porosity, pore size, degradation, swelling rate, compressive strength, and cell viability analyzed. All ternary blend scaffolds structures are highly porous (with a porosity higher than 80%) and interconnected. The pore size distribution varied from 0.6 to 265 μm. Ternary blends scaffolds had controllable degradation rates compared to binary blend scaffolds, and an improved swelling capacity of the samples with increasing chitosan concentration was found. An increase in Young’s modulus and compressive strength was observed with increasing gelatin concentration. The highest compressive strength reached 101.6 Pa. The MTT assay showed that the ternary blends scaffolds P3 and P4 supported cell viability better than the binary blend scaffold. Therefore, these results illustrated that ternary blends scaffolds P3 and P4 could provide a better environment for BRIN-BD11 cell proliferation.
Recent Studies on Dispersion of Graphene–Polymer Composites
Authors: Perumal Suguna , Atchudan Raji , Cheong In Woo
Published: July 2021

Graphene is an excellent 2D material that has extraordinary properties such as high surface area, electron mobility, conductivity, and high light transmission. Polymer composites are used in many applications in place of polymers. In recent years, the development of stable graphene dispersions with high graphene concentrations has attracted great attention due to their applications in energy, bio-fields, and so forth. Thus, this review essentially discusses the preparation of stable graphene–polymer composites/dispersions. Discussion on existing methods of preparing graphene is included with their merits and demerits. Among existing methods, mechanical exfoliation is widely used for the preparation of stable graphene dispersion, the theoretical background of this method is discussed briefly. Solvents, surfactants, and polymers that are used for dispersing graphene and the factors to be considered while preparing stable graphene dispersions are discussed in detail. Further, the direct applications of stable graphene dispersions are discussed briefly. Finally, a summary and prospects for the development of stable graphene dispersions are proposed.
Comparative Study of the Properties of Plasticized Polylactic Acid with Maleinized Hemp Seed Oil and a Novel Maleinized Brazil Nut Seed Oil
Authors: Perez-Nakai Aina , Lerma-Canto Alejandro , Domingez-Candela Ivan , Garcia-Garcia Daniel , Ferri Jose Miguel , Fombuena Vicent
Published: July 2021

In this study, for the first time, Brazil nut seed oil was chemically modified with maleic anhydride to obtain maleinized Brazil nut seed oil (MBNO). The same process was developed to obtain maleinized hemp seed oil (MHO). The use of MBNO and MHO was studied as bio-based plasticizers by incorporating them with different contents ranging from 0 to 10 phr in a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix. By means of mechanical, thermal and thermomechanical characterization techniques, the properties of the different formulations were studied to evaluate the plasticizing effect of the MBNO and MHO. With the addition of both plasticizers, a significant increase in ductile properties was observed, reaching an increase in elongation at break of 643% with 7.5 phr MBNO and 771% with 10 phr MHO compared to neat PLA. In addition, it has been observed that the mechanical resistant properties do not decrease, since the oils enhance the crystallization of PLA by increasing the free volume between its chains and counteracting the effect. Finally, a disintegration test was carried out under thermophilic conditions at 58 °C for 27 days, demonstrating that the incorporation of MHO and MBNO does not significantly affect the biodegradability of neat PLA.
Polymethylolacrylamide/AuNPs Nanocomposites: Electrochemical Synthesis and Functional Characteristics
Authors: Kolzunova Lidiia , Shchitovskaya Elena , Karpenko Maxim
Published: July 2021

In this study the advantages of the electrochemical approach to the formation of polymer/metal nanoparticle composites are demonstrated. The method enables one to simplify the multistage processes of traditional technologies for the production of such materials through combining all intermediate processes in one stage and reducing the total formation time to 3–10 min. The possibility of a single-stage formation of a polymethylolacrylamide/AuNPs composite through including AuNPs into an electrically non-conducting polymethylolacrylamide film (carrier) formed by electropolymerization through potentiostatic electrolysis is also demonstrated for the first time. It is established that the addition of tetrachloroauric acid (HAuCl4·4H2O) into a monomeric composition containing acrylamide, formaldehyde, N,N′-methylene-bis-acrylamide, zinc chloride, and H2O results in simultaneous electrochemical initiation of polymerization with the formation of a polymer film on the cathode, electrolytic reduction of gold ions to Au0, and immobilization of AuNPs particles into the growing polymer matrix. It was found that the formation of the PMAA / AuNPs composite is energetically more favorable than the synthesis of the main PMAA film, since it proceeds at a lower cathodic potential. The inclusion of AuNPs into the polymethylolacrylamide film was confirmed visually, as well as by X-ray phase analysis, small-angle X-ray scattering, microscopy, and element analysis. The gold content in the composite increases along with the increase of the concentration of HAuCl4 in the electrolyte. The radius of the AuNPs particles was found to range between 3 and 7 nm. The AuNPs particles are spherical in shape and can combine into larger clusters containing up to 10 or more particles. The dynamics of formation, structure, and morphology of the polymethylolacrylamide/AuNPs composite were investigated. It was revealed that gold nanoparticles are mainly concentrated in the near-electrode and near-solution layers of the composite. We found that the composite has electrocatalytic activity. The possibility of its use as a sensor for hydrogen peroxide is demonstrated.