bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breast Milk Micronutrients and Infant Neurodevelopmental Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lockyer Francesca , McCann Samantha , Moore Sophie E.
Published: October 2021

Micronutrients are fundamental for healthy brain development and deficiencies during early development can have a severe and lasting impact on cognitive outcomes. Evidence indicates that undernourished lactating individuals may produce breast milk containing lower concentrations of certain vitamins and minerals. Exclusively breastfed infants born to mothers deficient in micronutrients may therefore be at risk of micronutrient deficiencies, with potential implications for neurodevelopment. This systematic review aims to consider current knowledge on the effects of breast milk micronutrients on the developmental outcomes of infants. The databases Medline, Global Health, PsychInfo, Open Grey, and the Web of Science were searched for papers published before February 2021. Studies were included if they measured micronutrients in breast milk and their association with the neurodevelopmental outcomes of exclusively breastfed infants. Also, randomised control trials investigating neurocognitive outcomes following maternal supplementation during lactation were sought. From 5477 initial results, three observational studies were eligible for inclusion. These investigated associations between breast milk levels of vitamin B6, carotenoids, or selenium and infant development. Results presented suggest that pyroxidal, β-carotene, and lycopene are associated with infant neurodevelopmental outcomes. Limited eligible literature and heterogeneity between included papers prevented quantitative synthesis. Insufficient evidence was identified, precluding any conclusions on the relationship between breast milk micronutrients and infant developmental outcomes. Further, the evidence available was limited by a high risk of bias. This highlights the need for further research in this area to understand the long-term influence of micronutrients in breast milk, the role of other breast milk micronutrients in infant neurodevelopmental outcomes, and the impact of possible lactational interventions.
Lactic Acid Bacteria Fermented Cordyceps militaris (GRC-SC11) Suppresses IgE Mediated Mast Cell Activation and Type I Hypersensitive Allergic Murine Model
Authors: Phull Abdul-Rehman , Dhong Kyu-Ree , Park Hye-Jin
Published: October 2021

Cordyceps militaris (C. militaris) has various biomedical applications in traditional oriental medicine for different diseases including inflammatory and immune-dysregulated diseases. It is a reservoir of nutritional components such as cordycepin, polysaccharides, and antioxidants. To improve its bioactivity, we fermented C. militaris with a Pediococcus pentosaceus strain isolated from a salted small octopus (SC11). The current study aimed to evaluate whether P. pentosaceus (SC11) fermentation could enhance the anti-allergic potential of C. militaris cultured on germinated Rhynchosia nulubilis (GRC) against a type I hypersensitive reaction in in vitro and in vivo studies. Total antioxidant capacity and cordycepin content were significantly increased in GRC after SC11 fermentation. GRC-SC11 showed significantly enhanced anti-allergic responses by inhibiting immunoglobulin E (IgE)/antigen-induced degranulation in RBL-2H3 cells, compared to GRC. The results demonstrated the significant inhibition of phosphorylated spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk)/ p38/GRB2-associated binding protein 2 (Gab2)/c-jun in IgE/Ag-triggered RBL-2H3 cells. Furthermore, suppressed mRNA levels of interleukin-4 (IL-4) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in IgE/Ag-activated RBL-2H3 cells were observed. GRC-SC11 significantly ameliorated IgE-induced allergic reactions by suppressing the ear swelling, vascular permeability, and inflammatory cell infiltration in passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) BALB/c mice. In conclusion, GRC fermented with P.pentosaceus exerted enhanced anti-allergic effects, and increased the cordycepin content and antioxidants potential compared to GRC. It can be used as bio-functional food in the prevention and management of type I allergic diseases.
Eating Behaviors of Children with Autism—Pilot Study, Part II
Authors: Kazek Beata , Brzóska Anna , Paprocka Justyna , Iwanicki Tomasz , Kozioł Karolina , Kapinos-Gorczyca Agnieszka , Likus Wirginia , Ferlewicz Małgorzata , Babraj Agnieszka , Buczek Agata , Krupka-Matuszczyk Irena , Emich-Widera Ewa
Published: October 2021

Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by social communication deficit and non-normative behavior. The people with autism often experience troubles with feeding. The purpose of this study was to conduct evaluation of the feeding and eating behaviors among children with autism. Patients and Methods: The study group included 41 high-functioning autistic children. The control group consisted of 34 children without the ASD. The questionnaire was used to assess the nutritional status. Results: The children with ASD fuss during mealtimes more frequently, they require entertaining and diverting their attention, they are fed by parents, and they consume their meals away from the table. The significant difference found in the use of utensils and food selectivity works to the disadvantage of the Study Group. Conclusions: The food selectivity occurs significantly more frequently among children with ASD. The feeding and eating problems should be considered on a wider scale. The cooperation of the multidisciplinary and the parents teams should be proposed in the ASD patients care.
Dietary Patterns in Portuguese Children and Adolescent Population: The UPPER Project
Authors: de Moraes Milena Miranda , Oliveira Bruno , Afonso Cláudia , Santos Cristina , Torres Duarte , Lopes Carla , Miranda Renata Costa de , Rauber Fernanda , Antoniazzi Luiza , Levy Renata Bertazzi , Rodrigues Sara
Published: October 2021

Considering the nature, extent, and purpose of food processing, this study aims to identify dietary patterns (DPs) and their associations with sociodemographic factors and diet quality in Portuguese children and adolescents. Cross-sectional data were obtained from the National Food, Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (2015–2016) of the Portuguese population. Dietary intake was obtained from two non-consecutive days and food items were classified according to the NOVA system. The proportion (in grams) of foods in the total daily diet was considered to identify DPs by latent class analysis, with age and sex as concomitant variables. Associations of DPs with sociodemographic characteristics were assessed using multinomial logistic regression. Linear regressions adjusted by sociodemographic characteristics tested associations of DPs with diet quality. DPs identified were: “Unhealthy” (higher sugar-sweetened beverages, industrial breads, and sausages intake), “Traditional” (higher vegetables, fish, olive oil, breads, ultra-processed yogurts, and sausages intake), and “Dairy” (higher intake of milk, yogurt, and milk-based beverages). “Unhealthy” was associated with older ages and lower intake of dietary fibre and vitamins and the highest free sugars and ultra-processed foods (UPF), although all DPs presented significant consumption of UPF. These findings should be considered for the design of food-based interventions and school-feeding policies in Portugal.
Coffee, Tea, and Mammographic Breast Density in Premenopausal Women
Authors: Odama Adashi Margaret , Otti Valerie , Xu Shuai , Adebayo Olamide , Toriola Adetunji T.
Published: October 2021

Studies have investigated the associations of coffee and tea with mammographic breast density (MBD) in premenopausal women with inconsistent results. We analyzed data from 375 premenopausal women who attended a screening mammogram at Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO in 2016, and stratified the analyses by race (non-Hispanic White (NHW) vs. Black/African American). Participants self-reported the number of servings of coffee, caffeinated tea, and decaffeinated tea they consumed. Volpara software was used to determine volumetric percent density (VPD), dense volume (DV), and non-dense volume (NDV). We used generalized linear regression models to quantify the associations of coffee and tea intake with MBD measures. Coffee: ≥1 time/day (β = 1.06; 95% CI = 0.93–1.21; p-trend = 0.61) and caffeinated tea: ≥1 time/day (β = 1.01; 95% CI = 0.88–1.17; p-trend = 0.61) were not associated with VPD. Decaffeinated tea (≥1 time/week) was positively associated with VPD in NHW women (β = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.06–1.39) but not in African American women (β = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.73–1.17; p-interaction = 0.02). Coffee (≥1 time/day) was positively associated with DV in African American women (β = 1.52; 95% CI = 1.11–2.07) but not in NHW women (β = 1.10; 95% CI = 0.95–1.29; p-interaction = 0.02). Our findings do not support associations of coffee and caffeinated tea intake with VPD in premenopausal women. Positive associations of decaffeinated tea with VPD, with suggestions of effect modification by race, require confirmation in larger studies with diverse study populations.
MALDI-TOF MS Characterisation of the Serum Proteomic Profile in Insulin-Resistant Normal-Weight Individuals
Authors: Pastusiak Katarzyna , Matuszewska Eliza , Pietkiewicz Dagmara , Matysiak Jan , Bogdanski Pawel
Published: October 2021

Insulin resistance (IR) is one of the most common metabolic disorders worldwide and is involved in the development of diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, affecting civilisations. The possibility of understanding the molecular mechanism and searching for new biomarkers useful in assessing IR can be achieved through modern research techniques such as proteomics. This study assessed the protein–peptide profile among normal-weight patients with IR to understand the mechanisms and to define new risk biomarkers. The research involved 21 IR and 43 healthy, normal-weight individuals, aged 19–65. Serum proteomic patterns were obtained using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The proposed methodology identified six proteins differentiating normal weight IR and insulin sensitive individuals. They were fibrinogen alpha chain, serum albumin, kininogen-1, complement C3, serotransferrin, and Ig gamma-1 chain, which could potentially be related to inflammation. However, further investigation is required to confirm their correlation with IR.
Meal Patterns and Food Choices of Female Rats Fed a Cafeteria-Style Diet Are Altered by Gastric Bypass Surgery
Authors: Blonde Ginger D. , Price Ruth K. , le Roux Carel W. , Spector Alan C.
Published: October 2021

After Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RYGB), rats tend to reduce consumption of high-sugar and/or high-fat foods over time. Here, we sought to investigate the behavioral mechanisms underlying these intake outcomes. Adult female rats were provided a cafeteria diet comprised of five palatable foodstuffs varying in sugar and fat content and intake was monitored continuously. Rats were then assigned to either RYGB, or one of two control (CTL) groups: sham surgery or a nonsurgical control group receiving the same prophylactic iron treatments as RYGB rats. Post-sur-gically, all rats consumed a large first meal of the cafeteria diet. After the first meal, RYGB rats reduced intake primarily by decreasing the meal sizes relative to CTL rats, ate meals more slowly, and displayed altered nycthemeral timing of intake yielding more daytime meals and fewer nighttime meals. Collectively, these meal patterns indicate that despite being motivated to consume a cafeteria diet after RYGB, rats rapidly learn to modify eating behaviors to consume foods more slowly across the entire day. RYGB rats also altered food preferences, but more slowly than the changes in meal patterns, and ate proportionally more energy from complex carbohydrates and protein and proportionally less fat. Overall, the pattern of results suggests that after RYGB rats quickly learn to adjust their size, eating rate, and distribution of meals without altering meal number and to shift their macronutrient intake away from fat; these changes appear to be more related to postingestive events than to a fundamental decline in the palatability of food choices.
Dietary Intake of Folate and Assessment of the Folate Deficiency Prevalence in Slovenia Using Serum Biomarkers
Authors: Pravst Igor , Lavriša Živa , Hribar Maša , Hristov Hristo , Kvarantan Naska , Seljak Barbara Koroušić , Gregorič Matej , Blaznik Urška , Gregorič Nadan , Zaletel Katja , Oblak Adrijana , Osredkar Joško , Žmitek Katja , Kušar Anita
Published: October 2021

Folate deficiency is associated with various health issues, including anemia, cardiovascular disease, and birth defects. Low folate intake and suboptimal folate status were found in several countries; however, this topic has not yet been investigated in Slovenia. Dietary folate intake and serum folate status were investigated through the nationally representative food consumption study SI.Menu/Nutrihealth. Folate intake was estimated using a sample of N = 1248 subjects aged 10–74 years, stratified in three age groups (adolescents, adults, elderly population), through two 24 h-dietary recalls and food propensity questionnaire. Data on serum folate and homocysteine was available for 280 participants. Very low folate intake (<300 µg/day) was observed in 59% of adolescents, 58% of adults and 68% of elderlies, and only about 12% achieved the WHO recommended level of 400 µg/day. Major dietary contributors were vegetables and fruit, and cereal products. Living environment, education, employment status and BMI were linked with low folate intake in adults; BMI, and sex in adolescents; and sex in elderlies. Considering low serum folate (<7 nmol/L) and high serum homocysteine (>15 nmol/L), folate deficiency was found in 7.6 and 10.5% in adults and elderlies, respectively. Additional public health strategies should be employed to promote the consumption of folate-rich foods. With current folate intakes, supplementation with folic acid is relevant especially in specific vulnerable populations, particularly in women planning and during pregnancy.
Does Physical Inactivity Induce Significant Changes in Human Gut Microbiota? New Answers Using the Dry Immersion Hypoactivity Model
Authors: Jollet Maxence , Nay Kevin , Chopard Angèle , Bareille Marie-Pierre , Beck Arnaud , Ollendorff Vincent , Vernus Barbara , Bonnieu Anne , Mariadassou Mahendra , Rué Olivier , Derbré Frédéric , Goustard Bénédicte , Koechlin-Ramonatxo Christelle
Published: October 2021

Gut microbiota, a major contributor to human health, is influenced by physical activity and diet, and displays a functional cross-talk with skeletal muscle. Conversely, few data are available on the impact of hypoactivity, although sedentary lifestyles are widespread and associated with negative health and socio-economic impacts. The study aim was to determine the effect of Dry Immersion (DI), a severe hypoactivity model, on the human gut microbiota composition. Stool samples were collected from 14 healthy men before and after 5 days of DI to determine the gut microbiota taxonomic profiles by 16S metagenomic sequencing in strictly controlled dietary conditions. The α and β diversities indices were unchanged. However, the operational taxonomic units associated with the Clostridiales order and the Lachnospiraceae family, belonging to the Firmicutes phylum, were significantly increased after DI. Propionate, a short-chain fatty acid metabolized by skeletal muscle, was significantly reduced in post-DI stool samples. The finding that intestine bacteria are sensitive to hypoactivity raises questions about their impact and role in chronic sedentary lifestyles.
Fusarium elaeidis Causes Stem and Root Rot on Alocasia longiloba in South China
Authors: Zhang Yunxia , Chen Chao , Zhao Jingpeng , Chen Cantian , Lin Jieying , Jayawardena Ruvishika S. , Xiang Meimei , Manawasinghe Ishara S. , You Chunping
Published: October 2021

Alocasia longiloba is a popular ornamental plant in China, however pests and diseases associated with A. longiloba reduce the ornamental value of this plant. From 2016 to 2021, stem and root rot has been observed on A. longiloba in Guangdong Province, China. Once the disease became severe, plants wilted and died. A fungus was isolated from the diseased stem and identified as Fusarium elaeidis using both morphological characteristics and molecular analysis of DNA-directed RNA polymerase II subunit (rpb2), translation elongation factor-1α (tef1) gene and β-tubulin (tub2) sequence data. The pathogenicity test showed the fungus was able to produce typical symptoms on A. longiloba similar to those observed in the field. The original pathogen was reisolated from inoculated plants fulfilling Koch’s postulates. This is the first report of Fusarium elaeidis causing stem rot on A. longiloba. These results will provide a baseline to identify and control diseases associated with A. longiloba.
Eletrophilic Chemistry of Tranilast Is Involved in Its Anti-Colitic Activity via Nrf2-HO-1 Pathway Activation
Authors: Jeong Seongkeun , Kang Changyu , Park Sohee , Ju Sanghyun , Yoo Jin-Wook , Yoon In-Soo , Yun Hwayoung , Jung Yunjin
Published: October 2021

Tranilast (TRL), a synthetic derivative of a tryptophan metabolite, is an anti-allergic drug used to treat bronchial asthma. We investigated how TRL activated the nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) pathway based on the electrophilic chemistry of the drug and whether TRL activity contributed to the treatment of rat colitis. In human colon carcinoma cells, TRL activated Nrf2, as represented by an increase in nuclear Nrf2 and induction of Nrf2-dependent luciferase and, subsequently, HO-1, a target gene product of Nrf2. TRL activation of Nrf2 and induction of HO-1 were completely prevented by chemical reduction of the electrophilic functional group (α, β-unsaturated carbonyl group) in the drug. In parallel, TRL was reactive with the nucleophilic thiol group in N-acetylcysteine, forming a covalent adduct. Moreover, TRL, but not reduced TRL, binds to Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), releasing Nrf2. TRL administration ameliorated colonic damage and inflammation in rats with dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid-induced colitis, which was partly compromised by the chemical reduction of TRL or co-treatment with an HO-1 inhibitor. Our results suggest that TRL activated the Nrf2-HO-1 pathway via covalent binding to KEAP1, partly contributing to TRL amelioration in rat colitis.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Effects of Matrix-Induced Silver Ions against Antibiotic-Resistant ESKAPE Pathogens
Authors: Huang Ya-Chi , Yang Tsung-Ying , Chen Bo-Xuan , Kung Jung-Chang , Shih Chi-Jen
Published: October 2021

Recently, drug-resistant bacterial infections, especially ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.), have become a critical health issue worldwide, highlighting the emerging need for novel antibacterial agents. In this study, silver nanoparticles were extracted from silver-containing mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG-Ag) using four different matrixes, including water, phosphate buffer saline (PBS), tryptic soy broth (TSB), and taurine (Tau). The inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) results demonstrated that the silver concentration of Tau-Ag was the highest among the four matrixes. The Tau-Ag was also observed to have 87.35% silver ions in its X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) spectra. The micrograph of transmission electron microscope (TEM) displayed a uniform distribution of silver nanoparticles, which was confined in a smaller size compared to that in TSB-Ag. Moreover, the peak shifts observed in the Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) spectrum implied that the -SO32− and -NH groups in taurine may interact with silver. A low cytotoxicity was noted for Tau-Ag, with approximately 70% of cells surviving at 0.63 mg/mL. Compared to the other three matrix-induced silver agents, Tau-Ag represented a better antibacterial effect against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 0.63 mg/mL and a postponed growth of 0.31 mg/mL observed. Further antibacterial examinations illustrated the presence of remarkable antibacterial activities against vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus feacium, carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, and carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Given our observations and multiple bioactive functions of taurine (prevent patients from inflammation and oxidative-stress injuries), we anticipate that taurine matrix-induced silver ions would be a biomedical material with a high potential for combatting drug-resistant ESKAPE pathogens.
Investigation of the Mechanisms of Cytotoxic Activity of 1,3-Disubstituted Thiourea Derivatives
Authors: Strzyga-Łach Paulina , Chrzanowska Alicja , Podsadni Katarzyna , Bielenica Anna
Published: October 2021

Substituted thiourea derivatives possess confirmed cytotoxic activity towards cancer but also normal cells. To develop new selective antitumor agents, a series of 3-(trifluoromethyl)phenylthiourea analogs were synthesized, and their cytotoxicity was evaluated in vitro against the cell line panel. Compounds 1–5, 8, and 9 were highly cytotoxic against human colon (SW480, SW620) and prostate (PC3) cancer cells, and leukemia K-562 cell lines (IC50 ≤ 10 µM), with favorable selectivity over normal HaCaT cells. The derivatives exerted better growth inhibitory profiles towards selected tumor cells than the reference cisplatin. Compounds incorporating 3,4-dichloro- (2) and 4-CF3-phenyl (8) substituents displayed the highest activity (IC50 from 1.5 to 8.9 µM). The mechanisms of cytotoxic action of the most effective thioureas 1–3, 8, and 9 were studied, including the trypan blue exclusion test of cell viability, interleukin-6, and apoptosis assessments. Compounds reduced all cancerous cell numbers (especially SW480 and SW620) by 20–93%. Derivatives 2 and 8 diminished the viability of SW620 cells by 45–58%. Thioureas 1, 2, and 8 exerted strong pro-apoptotic activity. Compound 2 induced late apoptosis in both colon cancer cell lines (95–99%) and in K-562 cells (73%). All derivatives acted as inhibitors of IL-6 levels in both SW480 and SW620 cells, decreasing its secretion by 23–63%.
HPLC/ESI-MS and NMR Analysis of Chemical Constitutes in Bioactive Extract from the Root Nodule of Vaccinium emarginatum
Authors: Huang Hsiang-Ming , Ho Chien-Yi , Chang Geng-Ruei , Shia Wei-Yau , Lai Cheng-Hung , Chao Chih-Hao , Wang Chao-Min
Published: October 2021

Vaccinium emarginatum Hayata is a medicinal plant that has been historically used in ethnopharmacy to treat diseases in Taiwan. The objective of this study is to evaluate the anti-cancer and anti-bacterial constitutes from the root nodule extract of V. emarginatum. The chemical composition of V. emarginatum fractions was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS/MS) and the chemical constitutes were isolated and structurally identified by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Bioassay-guided chromatography showed that the ethyl acetate (EA) fraction was bioactive on the hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2). By LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis, twenty peaks of EA fraction were partially identified and the phytochemical investigation of the fractions led to the isolation and identification of protocatuchuic acid (1), epicatechin (2), catechin (3), procyanidin B3 (4), procyanidin A1 (5), hyperin (6), isoquercetin (7), quercetin (8), lupeol (9), beta-amyrin (10), and alpha-amyrin (11). Both procyanidin B3 and A1 exhibited anti-proliferative activity against HepG2 and gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cells at IC50 values between 38.4 and 41.1 μM and 79.4 and 83.8 μM, respectively. In addition, isoquercetin displayed the strongest anti-proliferative activity against the HepG2, lung carcinoma (A549), and AGS cell at 18.7, 24.6 and 68.5 μM, respectively. Among the triterpenoids, only lupeol showed the inhibitory activity against all tested tumor cell lines at IC50 values between 72.9 and 146.8 μM. Furthermore, procyanidins B3, A1 and isoquercetin displayed moderate anti-bacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. In conclusion, this study provides background information on the exploitation of V. emarginatum as a potential natural anti-cancer and anti-bacterial agent in pharmaceutical research.
2D Nanosheets—A New Class of Therapeutic Formulations against Cancer
Authors: Manisekaran Ravichandran , García-Contreras René , Rasu Chettiar Aruna-Devi , Serrano-Díaz Paloma , Lopez-Ayuso Christian Andrea , Arenas-Arrocena Ma Concepción , Hernández-Padrón Genoveva , López-Marín Luz M. , Acosta-Torres Laura Susana
Published: October 2021

Researchers in cancer nanomedicine are exploring a revolutionary multifaceted carrier for treatment and diagnosis, resulting in the proposal of various drug cargos or “magic bullets” in this past decade. Even though different nano-based complexes are registered for clinical trials, very few products enter the final stages each year because of various issues. This prevents the formulations from entering the market and being accessible to patients. In the search for novel materials, the exploitation of 2D nanosheets, including but not limited to the highly acclaimed graphene, has created extensive interest for biomedical applications. A unique set of properties often characterize 2D materials, including semiconductivity, high surface area, and their chemical nature, which allow simple decoration and functionalization procedures, structures with high stability and targeting properties, vectors for controlled and sustained release of drugs, and materials for thermal-based therapies. This review discusses the challenges and opportunities of recently discovered 2D nanosheets for cancer therapeutics, with special attention paid to the most promising design technologies and their potential for clinical translation in the future.
Focusing a Vortex Laser Beam with Polarization Conversion
Authors: Kotlyar Victor V. , Nalimov Anton G. , Stafeev Sergey S.
Published: October 2021

We show that when strongly focusing a linearly polarized optical vortex with the topological charge 2 (or −2) in the near-focus region, there occurs not only a reverse energy flow (where the projection of the Poynting vector is negative) but the right- (or left-) handed circular polarization of light as well. Notably, thanks to spin–orbital conversion, the on-axis polarization vector handedness is the same as that of the transverse energy flow, i.e., anticlockwise (clockwise). An absorbing spherical microparticle centered on the optical axis placed in the focus may be expected to rotate anticlockwise (clockwise) around its axis and its center of masses. We also show that in the case of sharp focusing of light with linear polarization (without an optical vortex) before and after focus, the light has an even number of local regions with left- and right-handed circular (elliptical) polarizations. Theoretical predictions are corroborated by the numerical simulation.
Silicon-Based Optoelectronics Enhanced by Hybrid Plasmon Polaritons: Bridging Dielectric Photonics and Nanoplasmonics
Authors: Sun Pengfei , Xu Pengfei , Zhu Kejian , Zhou Zhiping
Published: October 2021

Silicon-based optoelectronics large-scale integrated circuits have been of interest to the world in recent decades due to the need for higher complexity, larger link capacity, and lower cost. Surface plasmons are electromagnetic waves that propagate along the interface between a conductor and a dielectric, which can be confined several orders smaller than the wavelength in a vacuum and offers the potential for minimizing photonic circuits to the nanoscale. However, plasmonic waveguides are usually accompanied by substantial propagation loss because metals always exhibit significant resistive heating losses when interacting with light. Therefore, it is better to couple silicon-based optoelectronics and plasmonics and bridge the gap between micro-photonics and nanodevices, especially some nano-electronic devices. In this review, we discuss methods to enhance silicon-based optoelectronics by hybrid plasmon polaritons and summarize some recently reported designs. It is believed that by utilizing the strong light confinement of plasmonics, we can overcome the conventional diffraction limit of light and further improve the integration of optoelectronic circuits.
Separate Detection of Stromal and Epithelial Corneal Edema on Optical Coherence Tomography Using a Deep Learning Pipeline and Transfer Learning
Authors: Zéboulon Pierre , Ghazal Wassim , Bitton Karen , Gatinel Damien
Published: October 2021

The accurate detection of corneal edema has become a topic of growing interest with the generalization of endothelial keratoplasty. Despite recent advances in deep learning for corneal edema detection, the problem of minimal edema remains challenging. Using transfer learning and a limited training set of 11 images, we built a model to segment the corneal epithelium, which is part of a three-model pipeline to detect corneal edema. A second and a third model are used to detect edema on the stroma alone and on the epithelium. A validation set of 233 images from 30 patients consisting of three groups (Normal, Minimal Edema and important Edema) was used to compare the results of our new pipeline to our previous model. The mean edema fraction (EF), defined as the number of pixels detected as edema divided by the total number of pixels of the cornea, was calculated for each image. With our previous model, the mean EF was not statistically different between the Normal and Minimal Edema groups (p = 0.24). With the current pipeline, the mean EF was higher in the Minimal Edema group compared to the Normal group (p < 0.01). The described pipeline constitutes an adjustable framework for the detection of corneal edema based on optical coherence tomography and yields better performances in cases of minimal or localized edema.
Stinging Trichomes in Apocynaceae and Their Evolution in Angiosperms
Authors: Medina Maria Camila , Sousa-Baena Mariane S. , Capelli Natalie do Valle , Koch Raquel , Demarco Diego
Published: October 2021

Stinging trichomes are rare in plants, occurring only in angiosperms, where they are reported for a few genera belonging to six families. Although there is no report of stinging trichomes in Apocynaceae, previous fieldwork collections of Fischeria and Matelea caused us a mild allergic reaction on the skin when we contacted the dense indumentum of the plants. This fact associated with the well-known presence of glandular trichomes with acute apex in both genera raised suspicions that stinging trichomes could be present in the family. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the likely occurrence of stinging trichomes in Fischeria and Matelea. We analyzed vegetative shoots and leaves of Fischeria stellata and Matelea denticulata through the usual procedures of light and scanning electron microscopy. We also performed several histochemical tests to investigate the chemical composition of trichome secretion. We detected that glandular trichomes occur throughout the surface of the leaf and stem. They are multicellular, uniseriate with an apical secretory cell, which has a dilated base and a needle-shaped apex. The secretion is compressed into the acuminate portion of the apical cell by a large vacuole, and crystals are deposited in the cell wall in a subapical position, providing a preferential site of rupture. The secretion, composed of amino acids and/or proteins, is released under mechanical action, causing skin irritation. Based on our detailed morphological and anatomical analyses, and in the functional aspects observed, we concluded that the glandular trichomes in Fischeria and Matelea can indeed be classified as stinging. Thus, Apocynaceae is the seventh family for which this type of trichome has been reported. We also compiled information on stinging trichomes in all families of angiosperms. Their phylogenetic distribution indicates that they have evolved at least 12 times during angiosperm evolution and may represent an evolutionary convergence of plant defense against herbivory.
Preparation and Chemical and Physical Characteristics of an Edible Film Based on Native Potato Starch and Nopal Mucilage
Authors: Choque-Quispe David , Froehner Sandro , Ligarda-Samanez Carlos A. , Ramos-Pacheco Betsy S. , Palomino-Rincón Henry , Choque-Quispe Yudith , Solano-Reynoso Aydeé M. , Taipe-Pardo Fredy , Zamalloa-Puma Lourdes Magaly , Calla-Florez Miriam , Obregón-Yupanqui Miriam E. , Zamalloa-Puma Miluska M. , Mojo-Quisani Antonieta
Published: October 2021

Edible films prepared from biological materials are being massively used. This study aimed to prepare edible films from native potato starch of the Allcca sipas variety (Solanum tuberosum subsp. Andigena), nopal mucilage (Opuntia ficus indica), and glycerol. Twelve edible films were prepared with starch, mucilage, and glycerin in different proportions by thermosynthesis. It was observed that mucilage and glycerol have a significant direct effect on film solubility and an inverse effect on aw, while the effect of starch is the opposite. The aw ranged from 0.562 to 0.639. The FTIR analysis showed the interaction of the components in the films being considerably influenced by the addition of mucilage. The TGA/DTA analysis reported low thermal stability in the films, retaining water around 100 °C, and showing a tendency to lose weight when the content of starch is high, while the opposite occurred with the addition of mucilage; it was also observed that around 310 °C, the maximum weight loss was observed between 53.6 and 86.1%. SEM images showed uniform films without cracks. The results are promising and show the possibility of preparing edible films from native potato starch and mucilage.
Channels with Helical Modulation Display Stereospecific Sensitivity for Chiral Superstructures
Authors: Rusková Renáta , Račko Dušan
Published: October 2021

By means of coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, we explore chiral sensitivity of confining spaces modelled as helical channels to chiral superstructures represented by polymer knots. The simulations show that helical channels exhibit stereosensitivity to chiral knots localized on linear chains by effect of external pulling force and also to knots embedded on circular chains. The magnitude of the stereoselective effect is stronger for torus knots, the effect is weaker in the case of twist knots, and amphichiral knots do exhibit no chiral effects. The magnitude of the effect can be tuned by the so-far investigated radius of the helix, the pitch of the helix and the strength of the pulling force. The model is aimed to simulate and address a range of practical situations that may occur in experimental settings such as designing of nanotechnological devices for the detection of topological state of molecules, preparation of new gels with tailor made stereoselective properties, or diffusion of knotted DNA in biological conditions.
Finite Element Method-Based Dynamic Response of Micropolar Polymers with Voids
Authors: Vlase Sorin , Marin Marin
Published: October 2021

Composite-based polymer materials are manufactured in a wide variety of types with different compositions, structures, geometries, and topological descriptions. Among these, micropolar materials with voids have become increasingly studied in the literature. This paper establishes the equations of motion for such a material for the purpose of dynamic analysis via the finite element method (FEM). The Euler–Lagrangian formalism, based on the expressions of kinetic energy, potential energy, and mechanical work, is used. Hence, it is possible to study the dynamic response of such a system in the most general configuration case. The choice of the shape functions will determine the matrix coefficients for each particular case. An application illustrates the presented results.
In-Situ Synchrotron X-ray Study on the Structure Variation of Morphology-Identified Injection-Molded β-Nucleated iPP under Tensile Deformation
Authors: Chen Jianhong , Schneider Konrad , Heinrich Gert
Published: October 2021

The deformation behavior of semi-crystalline polymers is strongly dependent on the morphology formed during processing. In this study, in-situ synchrotron X-ray was firstly used to identify the morphological distributions of injection-molded isotactic polypropylene (iPP) with different concentrations of β-nucleating agent. It was found that under relatively high concentration of β-nucleating agent (i.e., ≥0.03 wt.%), the outer region (skin and shear region) of the iPP was dominated by mainly highly oriented α-phase as well as certain amount γ-phase, while the core region was rich in β-crystals with little if any orientation. The addition of the β-nucleating agent was beneficial for the formation of lamellae with large lamellar stacking distance in the shear layer. Then the synchrotron X-ray was applied to study the structure variation of those morphology-identified samples under tensile deformation. It was found that voids and cavities along the stretching direction existed in the deformed iPP samples and their volume increased with increasing concentration of β-nucleating agent. The increased volume of void and cavity was associated with the β to α phase transition, which mainly occurred at the core region. In addition, upon stretching crystalline fragmentation and rearrangement took place following the formation of thinner lamellae.
Effect of Waste Polyethylene and Wax-Based Additives on Bitumen Performance
Authors: Desidery Luca , Lanotte Michele
Published: October 2021

Over the last years, the replacement of traditional polymer modifiers with waste plastics has attracted increasing interest. The implementation of such technology would allow a drastic reduction of both production cost and landfill disposal of wastes. Among all, polyethylene-based plastics have been proved suitable for this purpose. The research activities presented in this paper aim to assess the synergistic effect of polyethylene and Fischer–Tropsch waxes on the viscoelastic properties and performance of the bitumen. In order to reduce the blending time, waxes, and polyethylene need to be added simultaneously. In fact, the presence of the waxes reduces the polarity of the bitumen matrix and increases the affinity with the polymer promoting its dispersion. Results demonstrate that the chain length of the waxes, the form of the added waste polyethylene, and the blending protocol have critical effects on the time-evolution of such properties. Short-chain waxes have a detrimental impact on the rutting resistance regardless of the blending protocol. On the contrary, long-chain waxes improve the overall behavior of the polyethylene-modified binders and, in particular, the resistance to permanent deformations.
A SAR Micromixer for Water-Water Mixing: Design, Optimization, and Analysis
Authors: Mahmud Md. Readul , Hossain Shakhawat , Kim Jin-Hyuk
Published: October 2021

A numerical investigation of the mixing performance and fluid flow in a new split and recombine (SAR) Y−Uβ micromixer is presented in this work. A parameter called connecting angle βis varied from 0° to 90° to analyze the effect on the SAR process and mixing performance. Thenumerical data shows that the SAR process strongly depends on the connecting angle (β) and maximum efficiency (93%) can be achieved when the value of β is 45°. The Y−U45° the mixer also offers higher efficiency and lower pressure drop than a known SAR ‘H−C’ mixer irrespective of Reynolds numbers. The split and recombine process, the influence of secondary flow, and pressure drop characteristics at various Reynolds numbers are also studied. In addition, mixing effectiveness is also computed, and among all examined mixers, Y−U45° is by far the best performing one.
Development of Alkaline Reduced Water Using High-Temperature-Roasted Mineral Salt and Its Antioxidative Effect in RAW 264.7 Murine Macrophage Cell Line
Authors: Trinh Thuy Thi , Fadriquela Ailyn , Lee Kyu-Jae , Bajgai Johny , Sharma Subham , Rahman Md. Habibur , Kim Cheol-Su , Youn Sang-Hum , Jeon Hyoung-Tag
Published: October 2021

Oxidative stress (OS) plays an important role in many diseases, and its excessive increase affects human health. Although the antioxidant effect of sea salt can be strengthened through special processing, it is scarcely studied. This study confirmed the antioxidative effect of high-temperature roasted mineral salt (HtRMS) produced through repeated roasting of sea salt at high temperature in a ceramic vessel. The dissolved HtRMS exhibited properties such as high alkalinity, rich mineral content, and a high concentration of hydrogen (H2). To detect the antioxidative effect of HtRMS, OS was induced in RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and then treated with HtRMS solution at different concentrations (0.1, 1, and 10%). Cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), and antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Ca2+, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway-related proteins (p-p38, p-JNK, and p-ERK) were measured. OS was significantly induced by treatment with H2O2 and LPS (p < 0.001). After treatment with HtRMS, cell viability and GPx activities significantly increased and ROS, NO, Ca2+, and CAT significantly decreased in a concentration-dependent manner compared to H2O2 and LPS-only groups, which was not observed in tap water (TW)-treated groups. Similarly, p-p38, p-JNK, and p-ERK levels significantly decreased in a concentration-dependent manner in HtRMS groups compared to both H2O2 and LPS-only groups; however, those in TW groups did not exhibit significant differences compared to H2O2 and LPS-only groups. In conclusion, our results suggest that HtRMS may have antioxidant potential by regulating the MAPK signaling pathway.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Validation of Melt Flow in the Naturally Pressurized Gating System
Authors: Brůna Marek , Vasková Iveta , Galčík Marek
Published: October 2021

The main problem during the production of castings from aluminium alloys is the presence of the reoxidation, which negatively affects the final casting quality. Liquid metal surface reacts with the surrounding atmosphere and oxide layer of Al2O3 is formed on its surface. The problem occurs when the oxide layer is entrained to the internal volume of the melt by turbulence and double oxide layers are formed, also known as “bifilms”. Its formation is related to the melt velocity and gating system design. In paper, naturally pressurized gating system was calculated and designed. Effect of the filter media and vortex element on the melt velocity, amount of oxides, mechanical properties, and porosity were observed. Designs with 10 ppi and 20 ppi foam filters and vortex element were compared with design without filters to prove the positive (or negative) effect of filter media on melt velocity and thus on final casting quality. The melt velocity and amount of oxides were observed with the aid of simulation software. Mechanical properties, quantity of pores, bifilm index and EDX analysis were evaluated after experimental casts. It was proven that by using 20 ppi foam filter in combination with vortex element, the best results were achieved.
Flow of Oil and Water through the Nozzle and Cavitation
Authors: Jablonská Jana , Kozubková Milada , Bojko Marian
Published: October 2021

Today, the correct understanding of the issue of oil and water cavitation is important due to the growing demands on working conditions in hydraulic systems (pressure and flow rate). This article deals with the measurement and subsequent mathematical modeling of cavitation in a convergent-divergent nozzle of circular cross-section. Cavitation depends on the physical properties of the flowing medium as a function of temperature. Usually, cavitation in water is defined by a two-phase flow of water and vapor, but the air contained in the water significantly affects cavitation. There is usually no vapor cavitation in the oil. Far more often, cavitation in oil is caused by the air it contains. For comparison, cavitation in water and oil was generated in experiments with an identical nozzle. The measurement was used to define boundary conditions in mathematical models and to verify simulations. The problem of cavitation was solved by three variants of multiphase flow, single-phase flow (water, oil), two-phase flow (water–vapor, oil–air) and three-phase flow (water–vapor–air, oil–vapor–air). A turbulent model with cavitation was used for all variants. The verification of simulations shows that for water cavitation it is necessary to use a three-phase model (water, vapor, air) and for oil cavitation a two-phase model (oil, air) is sufficient. The measurement results confirm the importance of the air phase in modeling cavitation in both water and oil.
Listening to People with Misophonia: Exploring the Multiple Dimensions of Sound Intolerance Using a New Psychometric Tool, the S-Five, in a Large Sample of Individuals Identifying with the Condition
Authors: Vitoratou Silia , Uglik-Marucha Nora , Hayes Chloe , Gregory Jane
Published: October 2021

Misophonia involves a strong emotional response to certain sounds and can cause significant distress and functional impairment. The aim of this study was to present and psychometrically evaluate a new, multidimensional measure of misophonia, the S-Five. The study also aimed to present and test a supplementary tool, a checklist of triggers that measure the nature and intensity of reactions. The stages of development for the measure are described. Psychometric testing on the final version of the tool was conducted using a sample of 828 individuals who identified with having misophonia. Analyses included factor structure assessment, measurement invariance testing, reliability (test–retest and internal consistency), and (concurrent) convergent validity assessment. Five factors emerged in the S-Five as dimensions of the experience of misophonia: internalising appraisals, externalising appraisals, sense of emotional threat, outbursts, and impact. No measurement bias was identified with respect to gender and age. All reliability and validity indices were satisfactory. The S-Five is a multidimensional measurement scale with satisfactory psychometric properties and will be a valuable tool for improving understanding of misophonia in research and clinical settings.