bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical Model of Constitutive Relation and Failure Criteria of Plastic Concrete under True Triaxial Compressive Stress
Authors: Hu Liangming , Li Shuyu , Zhu Junfu , Yang Xu
Published: December 2020

To establish the mathematic model of the constitutive relation and failure criteria of plastic concrete under true triaxial compressive stress, uniaxial compressive strength and true triaxial compressive strength of plastic concrete under three kinds of confining pressures with a size of 150 × 150 × 150 mm3 and a curing age of 540 days were tested, and the elastic modulus of plastic concrete with a size of 150 × 150 × 300 mm3 and a curing age of 90 days was tested. Based on the database, under uniaxial compressive stress tests and true triaxial compressive stress tests, the mathematic model of constitutive relation and the failure criteria of plastic concrete were investigated. It was observed that the strength of plastic concrete increased with confining stress. The mathematic model of constitutive relation in the form of the quartic polynomial is in good agreement with measured data. The general equations of failure criteria based on the octahedral stress-space under true triaxial compressive stress in the form of quadratic polynomial are well-fitting with experimental data. The mathematic model of constitutive relation and failure criteria of plastic concrete could provide the basis for a numerical simulation analysis of plastic concrete under true triaxial compressive stress, as well as promote the engineering application of plastic concrete.
Fabrication of Gelatin-ZnO Nanofibers for Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Babayevska Nataliya , Przysiecka Łucja , Nowaczyk Grzegorz , Jarek Marcin , Järvekülg Martin , Kangur Triin , Janiszewska Ewa , Jurga Stefan , Iatsunskyi Igor
Published: December 2020

In this study, GNF@ZnO composites (gelatin nanofibers (GNF) with zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs)) as a novel antibacterial agent were obtained using a wet chemistry approach. The physicochemical characterization of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) and GNF@ZnO composites, as well as the evaluation of their antibacterial activity toward Gram-positive (Staphyloccocus aureus and Bacillus pumilus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas fluorescens) bacteria were performed. ZnO NPs were synthesized using a facile sol-gel approach. Gelatin nanofibers (GNF) were obtained by an electrospinning technique. GNF@ZnO composites were obtained by adding previously produced GNF into a Zn2+ methanol solution during ZnO NPs synthesis. Crystal structure, phase, and elemental compositions, morphology, as well as photoluminescent properties of pristine ZnO NPs, pristine GNF, and GNF@ZnO composites were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), FTIR analysis, transmission and scanning electron microscopies (TEM/SEM), and photoluminescence spectroscopy. SEM, EDX, as well as FTIR analyses, confirmed the adsorption of ZnO NPs on the GNF surface. The pristine ZnO NPs were highly crystalline and monodispersed with a size of approximately 7 nm and had a high surface area (83 m2/g). The thickness of the pristine gelatin nanofiber was around 1 µm. The antibacterial properties of GNF@ZnO composites were investigated by a disk diffusion assay on agar plates. Results show that both pristine ZnO NPs and their GNF-based composites have the strongest antibacterial properties against Pseudomonas fluorescence and Staphylococcus aureus, with the zone of inhibition above 10 mm. Right behind them is Escherichia coli with slightly less inhibition of bacterial growth. These properties of GNF@ZnO composites suggest their suitability for a range of antimicrobial uses, such as in the food industry or in biomedical applications.
Novel Low-Twist Bast Fibre Yarns from Flax Tow for High-Performance Composite Applications
Authors: Graupner Nina , Lehmann Karl-Heinz , Weber David , Hilgers Hans-Willi , Bell Erik , Walenta Isabel , Berger Luisa , Brückner Torsten , Kölzig Kay , Randerath Herbert , Bruns Albert , Frank Bernd , Wonneberger Maik , Joulian Marc , Bruns Lisa , von Dungern Friedrich , Janßen Alexander , Gries Thomas , Kunst Stefan , Müssig Jörg
Published: December 2020

The use of natural fibres for components subjected to higher mechanical requirements tends to be limited by the high price of high-quality semi-finished products. Therefore, the present study deals with the development of more cost-effective staple fibre yarns made from flax tow. In the subsequent processing stage, the yarns were processed into quasi-unidirectional (UD) fabrics. The results of the fibre characterisation along the process chain have shown that no significant mechanical fibre damage occurs after slivers’ production. Fibres prepared from yarns and fabrics show comparable characteristics. The yarns were processed to composites by pultrusion to verify the reinforcement effect. The mechanical properties were comparable to those of composites made from a high-quality UD flax roving. The fabrics were industrially processed into composite laminates using a vacuum infusion and an autoclave injection process (vacuum injection method in an autoclave). While impact strength compared to a reference laminate based on the UD flax roving was achieved, tensile and flexural properties were not reached. An analysis showed that the staple fibre yarns in the fabric show an undulation, leading to a reorientation of the fibres and lower characteristic values, which show 86–92% of the laminate made from the flax roving. Hybrid laminates with outer glass and inner flax layers were manufactured for the intended development of a leaf spring for the bogie of a narrow-gauge railroad as a demonstrator. The hybrid composites display excellent mechanical properties and showed clear advantages over a pure glass fibre-reinforced composite in lightweight construction potential, particularly flexural stiffness.
Numerical Analysis of the Influence of Porosity and Pore Geometry on Functionality of Scaffolds Designated for Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Prochor Piotr , Gryko Anita
Published: December 2020

Background: Scaffolds are vital for orthopedic regenerative medicine. Therefore, comprehensive studies evaluating their functionality with consideration of variable parameters are needed. The research aim was to evaluate pore geometry and scaffold porosity influence on first, cell culture efficiency in a perfusion bioreactor and second, osteogenic cell diffusion after its implantation. Methods: For the studies, five pore geometries were selected (triangular prism with a rounded and a flat profile, cube, octagonal prism, sphere) and seven porosities (up to 80%), on the basis of which 70 models were created for finite element analyses. First, scaffolds were placed inside a flow channel to estimate growth medium velocity and wall shear stress. Secondly, scaffolds were placed in a bone to evaluate osteogenic cell diffusion. Results: In terms of fluid minimal velocity (0.005 m/s) and maximal wall shear stress (100 mPa), only cubic and octagonal pores with 30% porosity and spherical pores with 20% porosity fulfilled the requirements. Spherical pores had the highest osteogenic cell diffusion efficiency for porosities up to 30%. For higher porosities, the octagonal prism’s pores gave the best results up to 80%, where no differences were noted. Conclusions: The data obtained allows for the appropriate selection of pore geometry and scaffold porosity for orthopedic regenerative medicine.
Effect of Physiological Saline Solution Contamination on Selected Mechanical Properties of Seasoned Acrylic Bone Cements of Medium and High Viscosity
Authors: Karpiński Robert , Szabelski Jakub , Krakowski Przemysław , Jonak Józef
Published: December 2020

Bone cements play a key role in present-day surgery, including the implantation of hip and knee joint endoprostheses. The correct and durable bonding of the prosthesis to the bone is affected by both the static strength characteristics determined in accordance with ISO 5833:2002 and the resistance to long-term exposure to an aggressive environment of the human body and the impurities that may be introduced into the cement during implementation. The study attempts to demonstrate statistically significant degradation of cement as a result of the seasoning of cement samples in Ringer’s solution with simultaneous contamination of the material with saline solution, which is usually present in the surgical field (e.g., during the fixing of endoprostheses). The results of statistical analysis showed the nature of changes in compressive strength and microhardness due to seasoning time and degree of contamination.
Preparation, COX-2 Inhibition and Anticancer Activity of Sclerotiorin Derivatives
Authors: Chen Tao , Huang Yun , Hong Junxian , Wei Xikang , Zeng Fang , Li Jialin , Ye Geting , Yuan Jie , Long Yuhua
Published: December 2020

The latest research has indicated that anti-tumor agents with COX-2 inhibitory activity may benefit their anti-tumor efficiency. A series of sclerotiorin derivatives have been synthesized and screened for their cytotoxic activity against human lung cancer cells A549, breast cancer cells MDA-MB-435 using the MTT method. Among them, compounds 3, 7, 12, 13, 15, 17 showed good cytotoxic activity with IC50 values of 6.39, 9.20, 9.76, 7.75, 9.08, and 8.18 μM, respectively. In addition, all compounds were tested in vitro the COX-2 inhibitory activity. The results disclosed compounds 7, 13, 25 and sclerotiorin showed moderate to good COX-2 inhibition with the inhibitory ratios of 58.7%, 51.1%, 66.1% and 56.1%, respectively. Notably, compound 3 displayed a comparable inhibition ratio (70.6%) to the positive control indomethacin (78.9%). Furthermore, molecular docking was used to rationalize the potential of the sclerotiorin derivatives as COX2 inhibitory agents by predicting their binding energy, binding modes and optimal orientation at the active site of the COX-2. Additionally, the structure-activity relationships (SARS) have been addressed.
Novel Macrolactams from a Deep-Sea-Derived Streptomyces Species
Authors: Wang Pei , Wang Dongyang , Zhang Rongxin , Wang Yi , Kong Fandong , Fu Peng , Zhu Weiming
Published: December 2020

Four polyene macrolactams including the previously reported niizalactam C (4), and three new ones, streptolactams A–C (1–3) with a 26-membered monocyclic, [4,6,20]-fused tricyclic and 11,23-oxygen bridged [14,16]-bicyclic skeletons, respectively, were isolated from the fermentation broth of the deep-sea sediment-derived Streptomyces sp. OUCMDZ-3159. Their structures were determined based on spectroscopic analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis, and chemical methods. The abiotic formation of compounds 2 and 4 from compound 1 were confirmed by a series of chemical reactions under heat and light conditions. Compounds 1 and 3 showed a selective antifungal activity against Candida albicans ATCC 10231.
Supervised Rehabilitation May Lead to Better Outcome than Home-Based Rehabilitation Up to 1 Year after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Rhim Hye Chang , Lee Jin Hyuck , Lee Seo Jun , Jeon Jin Sung , Kim Geun , Lee Kwang Yeol , Jang Ki-Mo
Published: December 2020

Background and objectives: Previous studies consistently found no significant difference between supervised and home-based rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). However, the function of the nonoperative knee, hamstring strength at deep flexion, and neuromuscular control have been overlooked. This prospective observational study was performed to investigate the outcomes after ACLR in operative and nonoperative knees between supervised and home-based rehabilitations. Materials and Methods: After surgery, instructional videos demonstrating the rehabilitation process and exercises were provided for the home-based rehabilitation group. The supervised rehabilitation group visited our sports medicine center and physical therapists followed up all patients during the entire duration of the study. Isokinetic muscle strength and neuromuscular control (acceleration time (AT) and overall stability index (OSI)) of both operative and nonoperative knees, as well as patient-reported knee function (Lysholm score), were measured and compared between the two groups 6 months and 1 year postoperatively. Results: The supervised rehabilitation group showed higher muscle strength of hamstring and quadriceps in nonoperative knees at 6 months (hamstring, p = 0.033; quadriceps, p = 0.045) and higher hamstring strength in operative and nonoperative knees at 1 year (operative knees, p = 0.035; nonoperative knees, p = 0.010) than the home-based rehabilitation group. At 6 months and 1 year, OSIs in operative and nonoperative knees were significantly better in the supervised rehabilitation group than in the home-based rehabilitation group (operative knees, p < 0.001, p < 0.001; nonoperative knees, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, at 6 months and 1 year, respectively). At 1 year, the supervised rehabilitation group also demonstrated faster AT of the hamstrings (operative knees, p = 0.016; nonoperative knees, p = 0.036). Lysholm scores gradually improved in both groups over 1 year; however, the supervised rehabilitation group showed higher scores at 1 year (87.3 ± 5.8 vs. 75.6 ± 15.1, p = 0.016). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that supervised rehabilitation may offer additional benefits in improving muscle strength, neuromuscular control, and patient-reported knee function compared with home-based rehabilitation up to 1 year after ACLR.
How Can Imaging Help the Radiation Oncologist in Multiple Myeloma Treatment
Authors: Belgioia Liliana , Vagge Stefano , Tagliafico Alberto , Corvò Renzo
Published: December 2020

Multiple myeloma is an incurable malignant tumor of plasma cells of the bone marrow; most patients present a disseminated disease with important bone involvement. Even though a chemotherapy-based approach is the major treatment, radiotherapy often has a supportive role for symptom relief but also a radical role for patients with indolent disease or localized forms. In both cases imaging is the basis for treatment planning and for correct patient classification. This paper aims to describe and summarize how radiation oncologists could use imaging information to personalize the treatment for each patient.
Unraveling the Role of Drug-Lipid Interactions in NSAIDs-Induced Cardiotoxicity
Authors: Pereira-Leite Catarina , Figueiredo Marina , Burdach Kinga , Nunes Cláudia , Reis Salette
Published: December 2020

Cardiovascular (CV) toxicity is nowadays recognized as a class effect of non-aspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, their mechanisms of cardiotoxicity are not yet well understood, since different compounds with similar action mechanisms exhibit distinct cardiotoxicity. For instance, diclofenac (DIC) is among the most cardiotoxic compounds, while naproxen (NAP) is associated with low CV risk. In this sense, this study aimed to unravel the role of drug-lipid interactions in NSAIDs-induced cardiotoxicity. For that, DIC and NAP interactions with lipid bilayers as model systems of cell and mitochondrial membranes were characterized by derivative spectrophotometry, fluorometric leakage assays, and synchrotron X-ray scattering. Both DIC and NAP were found to have the ability to permeabilize the membrane models, as well as to alter the bilayers’ structure. The NSAIDs-induced modifications were dependent on the lipid composition of the membrane model, the three-dimensional structure of the drug, as well as the drug:lipid molar ratio tested. Altogether, this work supports the hypothesis that NSAIDs-lipid interactions, in particular at the mitochondrial level, may be another key step among the mechanisms underlying NSAIDs-induced cardiotoxicity.
Influence of the Impeller Diameter and Off-Bottom Clearance on the Flow Velocity Distribution Characteristics Near the Bottom inside a Flotation Machine
Authors: Gao Shuling , Meng Lingguo , Wei Dezhou , Zhao Qiang , Wang Xuetao , Hou Duanxu
Published: December 2020

The solid particle suspension inside a flotation machine is significantly dependent on the flow field, particularly the flow hydrodynamics characteristics near the bottom of the flotation machine. In this study, a laser Doppler anemometer (LDA) was utilized to investigate the influence of the impeller diameter and the impeller off-bottom clearance of a flotation machine on the flow velocity distribution characteristics near its bottom. The results showed that centripetal, centrifugal, and transitional spiral ascending vortexes were generated for different cases of the impeller variables. The impeller diameter and the off-bottom clearance were found to have a significant and interactive influence on the flow pattern, radial and axial velocities, velocity vector distribution, and axial fluctuating root mean square (RMS) velocity characteristics. When the centripetal flow was generated with a large impeller diameter and a small off-bottom clearance, the vortex stability was improved, the low-velocity distribution area was reduced near the bottom center, and the high axial RMS velocity distribution area was extended and became more consistent. The latter provided an advantageous condition for the momentum transfer between the liquid flow and the solid particles, as well as the airflow. However, the axial RMS velocity in the centrifugal flow formed in other cases of the impeller variables was less than that in the centripetal flow. Although the increase in the impeller off-bottom clearance contributed to increasing the velocity magnitude, this is certainly disadvantageous to the service life of the impeller blades, as expected from the high-velocity area extension. These results may provide a reference for the impeller design and optimization of a KYF (Kuang Yuan Flotation) flotation machine, as well as a basis for further investigation on the behavior of the dispersed phases inside a flow field.
A Novel Resorbable Composite Material Containing Poly(ester-co-urethane) and Precipitated Calcium Carbonate Spherulites for Bone Augmentation—Development and Preclinical Pilot Trials
Authors: Rode Claudia , Wyrwa Ralf , Weisser Juergen , Schnabelrauch Matthias , Vučak Marijan , Grom Stefanie , Reinauer Frank , Stetter Adrian , Schlegel Karl Andreas , Lutz Rainer
Published: December 2020

Polyurethanes have the potential to impart cell-relevant properties like excellent biocompatibility, high and interconnecting porosity and controlled degradability into biomaterials in a relatively simple way. In this context, a biodegradable composite material made of an isocyanate-terminated co-oligoester prepolymer and precipitated calcium carbonated spherulites (up to 60% w/w) was synthesized and investigated with regard to an application as bone substitute in dental and orthodontic application. After foaming the composite material, a predominantly interconnecting porous structure is obtained, which can be easily machined. The compressive strength of the foamed composites increases with raising calcium carbonate content and decreasing calcium carbonate particle size. When stored in an aqueous medium, there is a decrease in pressure stability of the composite, but this decrease is smaller the higher the proportion of the calcium carbonate component is. In vitro cytocompatibility studies of the foamed composites on MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts revealed an excellent cytocompatibility. The in vitro degradation behaviour of foamed composite is characterised by a continuous loss of mass, which is slower with higher calcium carbonate contents. In a first pre-clinical pilot trial the foamed composite bone substitute material (fcm) was successfully evaluated in a model of vertical augmentation in an established animal model on the calvaria and on the lateral mandible of pigs.
Difunctionalization of Alkenes and Alkynes via Intermolecular Radical and Nucleophilic Additions
Authors: Yao Hongjun , Hu Wenfei , Zhang Wei
Published: December 2020

Popular and readily available alkenes and alkynes are good substrates for the preparation of functionalized molecules through radical and/or ionic addition reactions. Difunctionalization is a topic of current interest due to its high efficiency, substrate versatility, and operational simplicity. Presented in this article are radical addition followed by oxidation and nucleophilic addition reactions for difunctionalization of alkenes or alkynes. The difunctionalization could be accomplished through 1,2-addition (vicinal) and 1,n-addition (distal or remote) if H-atom or group-transfer is involved in the reaction process. A wide range of moieties, such as alkyl (R), perfluoroalkyl (Rf), aryl (Ar), hydroxy (OH), alkoxy (OR), acetatic (O2CR), halogenic (X), amino (NR2), azido (N3), cyano (CN), as well as sulfur- and phosphorous-containing groups can be incorporated through the difunctionalization reactions. Radicals generated from peroxides or single electron transfer (SET) agents, under photoredox or electrochemical reactions are employed for the reactions.
Highly Flowable Nano TiO2/Porous Organic Polymer (POP) Supports for Efficient Metallocene Catalysts
Authors: Wang Xiong , Kang Wenqian , Gao Lin , Li Guangquan , Chen Xuerong , Guo Yi
Published: December 2020

Porous organic polymers (POPs) have proven to be an efficient support in the olefin polymerization catalyst field. In this paper, nano TiO2 beads were used to modulate the pore structure, bulk density, and surface morphology and flowability of the prepared POPs. With the incorporation of the hydrophilic nano TiO2 beads, the prepared TiO2/POP supports obtained reasonable specific surface area (100–300 m2/g) and higher bulk density (0.26–0.35 g/mL) and flowability than the pure POP supports. The results show that bulk density of the prepared TiO2/POP particles increased when adding an increased amount of TiO2, and when 37.5% TiO2 (weight percent to the total comonomers divinylbenzene (DVB) and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA)) and 3:1 DVB/HEMA (molar ratio) were added, highly flowable TiO2/POP composites (POP-6 and POP-7) were obtained. With the modulation of the nano TiO2 template during the support synthesis, the prepared POP-7 particles successfully achieved a normal distribution with a narrow particle size distribution (PSD) of 0.717 and average particle size of 24.1 m, a specific surface area (SSA) of 279 m2/g, and relatively high bulk density of 0.30 g/mL. Furthermore, all the prepared TiO2/POP supports obtained higher ethylene polymerization activity than silica gel-supported commercial metallocene catalyst. The immobilized (n-BuCp)2ZrCl2/MAO@POP-7 catalyst exhibited the highest ethylene polymerization activity of 4794 kg PE/mol Zr.bar.h and productivity of 389 g PE/g cat, more than twice that of the commercial counterpart. Even higher catalyst productivity (3197 g PE/g cat) and bulk density of the produced PE (0.36 g/mL) could be obtained in higher ethylene partial pressure at 80 ∘C for 2 h, and the prepared TiO2/POP catalyst shows no obvious Zr+ active sites decay during the ethylene polymerization.
Perfect Absorption and Refractive-Index Sensing by Metasurfaces Composed of Cross-Shaped Hole Arrays in Metal Substrate
Authors: Yan Zhendong , Tang Chaojun , Wu Guohua , Tang Yumei , Gu Ping , Chen Jing , Liu Zhengqi , Huang Zhong
Published: December 2020

Achieving perfect electromagnetic wave absorption with a sub-nanometer bandwidth is challenging, which, however, is desired for high-performance refractive-index sensing. In this work, we theoretically study metasurfaces for sensing applications based on an ultra-narrow band perfect absorption in the infrared region, whose full width at half maximum (FWHM) is only 1.74 nm. The studied metasurfaces are composed of a periodic array of cross-shaped holes in a silver substrate. The ultra-narrow band perfect absorption is related to a hybrid mode, whose physical mechanism is revealed by using a coupling model of two oscillators. The hybrid mode results from the strong coupling between the magnetic resonances in individual cross-shaped holes and the surface plasmon polaritons on the top surface of the silver substrate. Two conventional parameters, sensitivity (S) and figure of merit (FOM), are used to estimate the sensing performance, which are 1317 nm/RIU and 756, respectively. Such high-performance parameters suggest great potential for the application of label-free biosensing.
Habitual Miso (Fermented Soybean Paste) Consumption Is Associated with a Low Prevalence of Sarcopenia in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Takahashi Fuyuko , Hashimoto Yoshitaka , Kaji Ayumi , Sakai Ryosuke , Kawate Yuka , Okamura Takuro , Kitagawa Noriyuki , Okada Hiroshi , Nakanishi Naoko , Majima Saori , Senmaru Takafumi , Ushigome Emi , Hamaguchi Masahide , Asano Mai , Yamazaki Masahiro , Fukui Michiaki
Published: December 2020

Insulin resistance is a risk of sarcopenia, and the presence of sarcopenia is high in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). It has been reported that habitual miso soup consumption was associated with lower insulin resistance. However, the association between habitual miso consumption and the presence of sarcopenia in patients with T2DM, especially sex difference, was unclear. In this cross-sectional study, 192 men and 159 women with T2DM were included. Habitual miso consumption was defined as consuming miso soup regularly. Having both low skeletal muscle mass index (<28.64% for men, <24.12% for women) and low adjusted hand grip strength (<51.26% for men, <35.38% for women) was defined as sarcopenia. The proportions of sarcopenia were 8.7% in men and 22.6% in women. The proportions of habitual miso consumption were 88.0% in men and 83.6% in women. Among women, the presence of sarcopenia was lower in the group with habitual miso consumption (18.8% versus 42.3%, p = 0.018); however, there was no association between habitual miso consumption and the presence of sarcopenia in men. Habitual miso consumption was negatively associated with the presence of sarcopenia in women (adjusted odds ratio (OR), 0.20 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.06–0.62), p = 0.005) but not in men. This study indicated that habitual miso consumption was associated with the presence of sarcopenia in women but not in men.
Are Nutrition Standards for Beverages in Schools Associated with Healthier Beverage Intakes among Adolescents in the US?
Authors: Chriqui Jamie F. , Leider Julien , Cohen Juliana F. W. , Schwartz Marlene , Turner Lindsey
Published: December 2020

Under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Smart Snacks in School standards, beverages sold in schools are restricted to water, flavored or unflavored non-fat milk or unflavored low-fat milk (and milk alternatives), and 100% fruit and vegetable juices; and, at the high school level, diet (≤10 kcal), low-calorie (≤60 kcal), and caffeinated beverages may also be sold. Using data from the School Nutrition and Meal Cost Study, this study examined whether secondary school student beverage consumption was associated with school-level à la carte and vending machine beverage availability, controlling for district, school, and student characteristics. On average, most beverages sold in middle schools (84.54%) and high schools (74.11%) were Smart Snacks compliant; while 24.06 percent of middle school students and 14.64 percent of high school students reported consuming non-compliant beverages, including non-compliant milk, fruit drinks, and sports or energy drinks. School beverage availability was not related to consumption among middle school students; however, high school students were less likely to consume non-compliant beverages when enrolled in schools that sold a higher proportion of compliant beverages (Range: OR = 0.97–0.98, 95% CI = 0.95, 1.00). Findings from this study build upon prior research illustrating the role that schools can play in influencing student dietary intake.
Seafood Consumption and Its Contribution to Nutrients Intake among Canadians in 2004 and 2015
Authors: Hu Xue Feng , Chan Hing Man
Published: December 2020

Fish and seafood are excellent sources of nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin D, and selenium. The aims of this study were to examine the pattern of seafood consumption among Canadians and determine their contribution to intakes of energy and nutrients. Day-1 24-h dietary recalls data collected from a national survey, the Canadian Community Health Survey—Nutrition in 2004 and 2015, were used to estimate food and nutrient intakes among Canadians. Seafood was classified according to the Bureau of Nutritional Sciences food list. Descriptive statistics were used to calculate the consumption rate and the average consumption amount of seafood by different age groups and sociodemographic characteristics. Population ratios were used to assess the contribution of seafood to the total intake of energy and nutrients. The overall consumption rate of seafood was around 17%, and the rate was similar between males and females, and slightly higher in 2015 (17.71%) compared to 2004 (16.38%). The average portion size is approximately 100 g, which translates into a ≈36 kg annual intake among the consumers and ≈6.2 kg per capita consumption. Adults (especially 30 years and above), Asians, individuals who were married, and with post-secondary education were more likely to consume seafood. Salmon, tuna, shrimp, cod, and crab were the most frequently consumed seafood in Canada, the consumption rate of which all increased from 2004 to 2015. Seafood provided up to 75% of n-3 PUFAs, 18% of Vitamin D, 19% Vitamin B12, 6% of niacin, and 4% of Vitamin B6 from all food sources. Seafood consumers had a healthier diet, as seafood consumption was related to a higher intake of key nutrients and a lower intake of total sugar and saturated fatty acids. Therefore, fish consumption should be promoted among Canadians.
Potential of an Interorgan Network Mediated by Toxic Advanced Glycation End-Products in a Rat Model
Authors: Inoue Shinya , Takata Takanobu , Nakazawa Yusuke , Nakamura Yuka , Guo Xin , Yamada Sohsuke , Ishigaki Yasuhito , Takeuchi Masayoshi , Miyazawa Katsuhito
Published: December 2020

Excessive intake of glucose and fructose in beverages and foods containing high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) plays a significant role in the progression of lifestyle-related diseases (LSRD). Glyceraldehyde-derived advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which have been designated as toxic AGEs (TAGE), are involved in LSRD progression. Understanding of the mechanisms underlying the effects of TAGE on gene expression in the kidneys remains limited. In this study, DNA microarray analysis and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to investigate whether HFCS-consuming Wister rats generated increased intracellular serum TAGE levels, as well as the potential role of TAGE in liver and kidney dysfunction. HFCS consumption resulted in significant accumulation of TAGE in the serum and liver of rats, and induced changes in gene expression in the kidneys without TAGE accumulation or upregulation of receptor for AGEs (RAGE) upregulation. Changes in specific gene expression profiles in the kidney were more correlated with TAGE levels in the liver tissue than in the serum. These findings suggest a direct or indirect interaction may be present between the liver and kidneys that does not involve serum TAGE or RAGE. The involvement of internal signal transduction factors such as exosomes or cytokines without IL-1β and TNF-α is suggested to contribute to the observed changes in kidney gene expression.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of Propyl-Propane-Thiosulfinate and Propyl-Propane-Thiosulfonate, Two Organosulfur Compounds from Allium cepa: In Vitro Antimicrobial Effect via the Gas Phase
Authors: Sorlozano-Puerto Antonio , Albertuz-Crespo Maria , Lopez-Machado Isaac , Gil-Martinez Lidia , Ariza-Romero Juan Jose , Maroto-Tello Alba , Baños-Arjona Alberto , Gutierrez-Fernandez Jose
Published: December 2020

Propyl-propane thiosulfinate (PTS) and propyl-propane thiosulfonate (PTSO) are two volatile compounds derived from Allium cepa with a widely documented antimicrobial activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate their anti-candidiasis activity and the ability of its gaseous phase to inhibit bacterial and yeast growth in vitro. The minimum inhibitory concentration of various antifungal products (including PTS and PTSO) was determined versus 203 clinical isolates of Candida spp. through broth microdilution assay. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity through aerial diffusion of PTS and PTSO was evaluated over the growth of a collection of bacteria and yeasts cultivated in agar plates. All yeasts were susceptible to the antifungals tested, except C. glabrata and C. krusei, that showed azole resistance. PTSO (MIC50 and MIC90 ranged from 4 to 16 mg/L and 8 to 32 mg/L, respectively) was significantly more active against yeasts than PTS (MIC50 and MIC90 ranged from 16 to 64 mg/L and 32 to 64 mg/L). Values were higher than those obtained for antifungal drugs. Gaseous phases of PTS and PTSO generated growth inhibition zones whose diameters were directly related to the substances concentration and inversely related to the microbial inoculum. The quantification of PTS and PTSO levels reached in the growth media through aerial diffusion displayed a concentration gradient from the central zone to the periphery. Only P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853 showed resistance, while yeasts (C. albicans ATCC 200955 and C. krusei ATCC 6258) presented the higher susceptibility to both compounds. These results suggest that PTS and PTSO display antibacterial and anti-candidiasis activity in vitro through aerial diffusion, having potential use in human therapy.
Redox-Responsive Nanocarrier for Controlled Release of Drugs in Inflammatory Skin Diseases
Authors: Rajes Keerthana , Walker Karolina , Hadam Sabrina , Zabihi Fatemeh , Rancan Fiorenza , Vogt Annika , Haag Rainer
Published: December 2020

A synthetic route for redox-sensitive and non-sensitive core multi-shell (CMS) carriers with sizes below 20 nm and narrow molecular weight distributions was established. Cyclic voltammetric measurements were conducted characterizing the redox potentials of reduction-sensitive CMS while showcasing its reducibility through glutathione and tris(2-carboxyethyl)-phosphine as a proof of concept. Measurements of reduction-initiated release of the model dye Nile red by time-dependent fluorescence spectroscopy showed a pronounced release for the redox-sensitive CMS nanocarrier (up to 90% within 24 h) while the non-sensitive nanocarriers showed no release in PBS. Penetration experiments using ex vivo human skin showed that the redox-sensitive CMS nanocarrier could deliver higher percentages of the loaded macrocyclic dye meso-tetra (m-hydroxyphenyl) porphyrin (mTHPP) to the skin as compared to the non-sensitive CMS nanocarrier. Encapsulation experiments showed that these CMS nanocarriers can encapsulate dyes or drugs with different molecular weights and hydrophobicity. A drug content of 1 to 6 wt% was achieved for the anti-inflammatory drugs dexamethasone and rapamycin as well as fluorescent dyes such as Nile red and porphyrins. These results show that redox-initiated drug release is a promising strategy to improve the topical drug delivery of macrolide drugs.
Preparation and Characterization of Ultra-Fine Oil Palm Ash Powder by Ultrasonication and Alkaline Treatment for Its Evaluation as Reinforcing Filler in Natural Rubber
Authors: Jarnthong Methakarn , Malawet Chutarat , Liao Lusheng , Li Puwang , Peng Zheng , Intharapat Punyanich
Published: December 2020

Ultra-fine oil palm ash (OPA) particles were successfully prepared using ultrasonication along with optimal chemical deagglomeration. The influence of chemical treatment by sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution on the OPA particles was found to be an important factor in enhancing deagglomeration efficiency. The average particle size of the original OPA (41.651 μm) decreased remarkably more than 130 times (0.318 μm) with an obvious increase of Brunauer–Emmet–Teller (BET) surface area after treating the OPA with 3M NaOH, followed by ultrasonication for 30 min. The changes in particle size and surface morphology were investigated using transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, the chemical functional groups of the untreated and treated OPA showed different patterns of infrared spectra by the presence of sodium carbonate species owing to the effect of NaOH treatment. The incorporation of both untreated and treated OPA in natural rubber by increasing their loading can improve cure characteristics (i.e., reducing optimum cure time and increasing torques) and cure kinetic parameters (i.e., increasing the rate of cure and reducing activation energy). Nevertheless, the strength, degree of reinforcement, and thermal stability of treated OPA as well as wettability between treated OPA particles and NR were greater than that resulting from the untreated OPA.
Evaluation of Colombian Crops Fibrous Byproducts for Potential Applications in Sustainable Building Acoustics
Authors: Gomez Tomas Simon , Zuluaga Santiago , Jimenez Maritza , Navacerrada María de los Ángeles , Barbero-Barrera María del Mar , Prida Daniel de la , Restrepo-Osorio Adriana , Fernández-Morales Patricia
Published: December 2020

Local production of construction materials is a valuable tool for improving the building sector sustainability. In this sense, the use of lignocellulosic fibers from local species becomes an interesting alternative to the development of such materials. As it is thought that the properties of fiber-based materials are dependent on the fibers properties, the knowledge of such properties is fundamental to promote materials development. This study compares the physical, morphological, acoustic, and mechanical characteristics of coir (Cocos nucifera) and fique (Furcraea Agavaceae) fibers and panels. The chemical composition appears to be associated with the general behavior of the fibers and panels, regarding higher tensile strength, thermal degradation behavior, and water absorption. In most tests, fique had the upper hand, showing superior performance; however, on thermal degradation and water absorption, both materials had similar behavior. The sound absorption measurement showed that the fiber diameter affects the sound absorption at high frequencies, where fique panels showed better performance than coir panels.
Mining Actuarial Risk Predictors in Accident Descriptions Using Recurrent Neural Networks
Authors: Baillargeon Jean-Thomas , Lamontagne Luc , Marceau Etienne
Published: December 2020

One crucial task of actuaries is to structure data so that observed events are explained by their inherent risk factors. They are proficient at generalizing important elements to obtain useful forecasts. Although this expertise is beneficial when paired with conventional statistical models, it becomes limited when faced with massive unstructured datasets. Moreover, it does not take profit from the representation capabilities of recent machine learning algorithms. In this paper, we present an approach to automatically extract textual features from a large corpus that departs from the traditional actuarial approach. We design a neural architecture that can be trained to predict a phenomenon using words represented as dense embeddings. We then extract features identified as important by the model to assess the relationship between the words and the phenomenon. The technique is illustrated through a case study that estimates the number of cars involved in an accident using the accident’s description as input to a Poisson regression model. We show that our technique yields models that are more performing and interpretable than some usual actuarial data mining baseline.
Interannual and Seasonal Variability of Glacier Surface Velocity in the Parlung Zangbo Basin, Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhang Jing , Jia Li , Menenti Massimo , Ren Shaoting
Published: December 2020

Monitoring glacier flow is vital to understand the response of mountain glaciers to environmental forcing in the context of global climate change. Seasonal and interannual variability of surface velocity in the temperate glaciers of the Parlung Zangbo Basin (PZB) has attracted significant attention. Detailed patterns in glacier surface velocity and its seasonal variability in the PZB are still uncertain, however. We utilized Landsat-8 (L8) OLI data to investigate in detail the variability of glacier velocity in the PZB by applying the normalized image cross-correlation method. On the basis of satellite images acquired from 2013 to 2020, we present a map of time-averaged glacier surface velocity and examined four typical glaciers (Yanong, Parlung No.4, Xueyougu, and Azha) in the PZB. Next, we explored the driving factors of surface velocity and of its variability. The results show that the glacier centerline velocity increased slightly in 2017–2020. The analysis of meteorological data at two weather stations on the outskirts of the glacier area provided some indications of increased precipitation during winter-spring. Such increase likely had an impact on ice mass accumulation in the up-stream portion of the glacier. The accumulated ice mass could have caused seasonal velocity changes in response to mass imbalance during 2017–2020. Besides, there was a clear winter-spring speedup of 40% in the upper glacier region, while a summer speedup occurred at the glacier tongue. The seasonal and interannual velocity variability was captured by the transverse velocity profiles in the four selected glaciers. The observed spatial pattern and seasonal variability in glacier surface velocity suggests that the winter-spring snow might be a driver of glacier flow in the central and upper portions of glaciers. Furthermore, the variations in glacier surface velocity are likely related to topographic setting and basal slip caused by the percolation of rainfall. The findings on glacier velocity suggest that the transfer of winter-spring accumulated ice triggered by mass conservation seems to be the main driver of changes in glacier velocity. The reasons that influence the seasonal surface velocity change need further investigation.
Accelerating Haze Removal Algorithm Using CUDA
Authors: Wu Xianyun , Wang Keyan , Li Yunsong , Liu Kai , Huang Bormin
Published: December 2020

The dark channel prior (DCP)-based single image removal algorithm achieved excellent performance. However, due to the high complexity of the algorithm, it is difficult to satisfy the demands of real-time processing. In this article, we present a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) accelerated parallel computing method for the real-time processing of high-definition video haze removal. First, based on the memory access pattern, we propose a simple but effective filter method called transposed filter combined with the fast local minimum filter algorithm and integral image algorithm. The proposed method successfully accelerates the parallel minimum filter algorithm and the parallel mean filter algorithm. Meanwhile, we adopt the inter-frame atmospheric light constraint to suppress the flicker noise in the video haze removal and simplify the estimation of atmospheric light. Experimental results show that our implementation can process the 1080p video sequence with 167 frames per second. Compared with single thread Central Processing Units (CPU) implementation, the speedup is up to 226× with asynchronous stream processing and qualified for the real-time high definition video haze removal.
Victoria Land, Antarctica: An Improved Geodynamic Interpretation Based on the Strain Rate Field of the Current Crustal Motion and Moho Depth Model
Authors: Zanutta Antonio , Negusini Monia , Vittuari Luca , Martelli Leonardo , Cianfarra Paola , Salvini Francesco , Mancini Francesco , Sterzai Paolo , Creati Nicola , Dubbini Marco , Capra Alessandro
Published: December 2020

In Antarctica, the severe climatic conditions and the thick ice sheet that covers the largest and most internal part of the continent make it particularly difficult to systematically carry out geophysical and geodetic observations on a continental scale. It prevents the comprehensive understanding of both the onshore and offshore geology as well as the relationship between the inner part of East Antarctica (EA) and the coastal sector of Victoria Land (VL). With the aim to reduce this gap, in this paper multiple geophysical dataset collected since the 1980s in Antarctica by Programma Nazionale di Ricerche in Antartide (PNRA) were integrated with geodetic observations. In particular, the analyzed data includes: (i) Geodetic time series from Trans Antarctic Mountains DEFormation (TAMDEF), and Victoria Land Network for DEFormation control (VLNDEF) GNSS stations installed in Victoria Land; (ii) the integration of on-shore (ground points data and airborne) gravity measurements in Victoria Land and marine gravity surveys performed in the Ross Sea and the narrow strip of Southern Ocean facing the coasts of northern Victoria Land. Gravity data modelling has improved the knowledge of the Moho depth of VL and surrounding the offshore areas. By the integration of geodetic and gravitational (or gravity) potential results it was possible to better constrain/identify four geodynamic blocks characterized by homogeneous geophysical signature: the Southern Ocean to the N, the Ross Sea to the E, the Wilkes Basin to the W, and VL in between. The last block is characterized by a small but significant clockwise rotation relative to East Antarctica. The presence of a N-S to NNW-SSE 1-km step in the Moho in correspondence of the Rennick Geodynamic Belt confirms the existence of this crustal scale discontinuity, possibly representing the tectonic boundary between East Antarctica and the northern part of VL block, as previously proposed by some geological studies.
Evaluating Residents’ Perceptions of Nature-Based Tourism with a Factor-Cluster Approach
Authors: Gu Xiaoping , Hunt Carter A. , Lengieza Michael L. , Niu Lijun , Wu Huiwen , Wang Yue , Jia Xiang
Published: December 2020

The purpose of the research presented here was to empirically assess resident perceptions of tourism development around the Changbai Mountain Biosphere Reserve (CMBR), a protected area straddling the China and North Korea border. Several theoretical approaches to the assessment of local resident attitudes towards tourism were reviewed and integrated into a novel factor-cluster assessment of residents in Erdaobaihe, the community most adjacent to CMBR. This analysis quantitatively grouped residents based on their perceptions of tourism’s economic, social, cultural, and environmental consequences for the town. An exploratory factor analysis of resident perceptual items first revealed six perception domains, and a subsequent cluster analysis then identified four distinct groups of residents based on these perceptions. A descriptive profile of each cluster and the significant differences among clusters are provided. Advancing our theoretical understanding of resident perspectives of tourism development, this cluster-based segmentation approach, demonstrated here, holds much promise for elaborating on the many ways that residents respond to new and long-standing forms of tourism in their communities. These theoretical and methodological contributions will be applicable to scholars as well as tourism practitioners and policy makers.