bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the Land Price Subsidy Still Exist against the Background of Market Reform of Industrial Land?
Authors: Zhang Lin , Zhao Yiting , Liu Yuan , Qian Jinfang
Published: September 2021

In 2007, China started the market reform of industrial land, with the aim of establishing a more effective industrial land market and promoting the effective allocation of land. For this study, we want to explore what strategic choices local governments and enterprises will make under the background of market-oriented reform, and whether there are still some implicit land price subsidies. In this context, based on matching micro land transfer data (2007–2013), we examined the policy effect in the seven years since the reform. Then, we further analyzed the land transfer strategies of local governments and the differences they made to enterprises’ land purchasing decisions against the background of the reform. The following were found: ① With the deepening of market reform, the effect has gradually become clear. The proportion of industrial land transferred through market modes increases year by year. Furthermore, due to marketization, the price of industrial land has increased significantly, and land purchases among enterprises have become more competitive. ② Against the background of the reform, local governments tend to adopt listing as an alternative to negotiation, so as to attract investment from preferred enterprises. ③ Local governments tend to give state-owned and large or medium enterprises more subsidies by way of listing, which reduces the land purchase price for these enterprises. Based on the results, the market-oriented reform of land should be adhered to, and the selection mechanism of tender, auction, and listing transfer methods should be further standardized and refined. Besides, a variety of ways to meet the needs of enterprises for land use (such as lease first and then transfer) should be proposed to compensate for the existing insufficiency.
Cytotoxic and Genotoxic Effects of Composite Resins on Cultured Human Gingival Fibroblasts
Authors: De Angelis Francesco , Mandatori Domitilla , Schiavone Valeria , Melito Francesco Paolo , Valentinuzzi Silvia , Vadini Mirco , Di Tomo Pamela , Vanini Lorenzo , Pelusi Letizia , Pipino Caterina , Del Boccio Piero , D’Arcangelo Camillo , Pandolfi Assunta
Published: September 2021

The aim of the study was to evaluate the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of five commercially available dental composite resins (CRs), investigating the effect of their quantifiable bisphenol-A-glycidyl-methacrylate (Bis-GMA) and/or triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) release. Experiments were performed using the method of soaking extracts, which were derived from the immersion of the following CRs in the culture medium: Clearfil-Majesty-ES-2, GrandioSO, and Enamel-plus-HRi (Bis-GMA-based); Enamel-BioFunction and VenusDiamond (Bis-GMA-free). Human Gingival Fibroblasts (hGDFs) were employed as the cellular model to mimic in vitro the oral cavity milieu, where CRs simultaneously release various components. Cell metabolic activity, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity were used as cellular outcomes. Results showed that only VenusDiamond and Enamel-plus-HRi significantly affected the hGDF cell metabolic activity. In accordance with this, although no CR-derived extract induced a significantly detectable oxidative stress, only VenusDiamond and Enamel-plus-HRi induced significant genotoxicity. Our findings showed, for the CRs employed, a cytotoxic and genotoxic potential that did not seem to depend only on the actual Bis-GMA or TEGDMA content. Enamel-BioFunction appeared optimal in terms of cytotoxicity, and similar findings were observed for Clearfil-Majesty-ES-2 despite their different Bis-GMA/TEGDMA release patterns. This suggested that simply excluding one specific monomer from the CR formulation might not steadily turn out as a successful approach for improving their biocompatibility.
Effect of Processing Conditions on the Flash Onset Temperature in Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Hwang Changhun , Yun Jondo
Published: September 2021

When heat and electric field are applied to the sample, sintering takes place within a short time of a few seconds by the flash phenomenon that occurs. In what condition flash does occur is a main issue for the flash sintering technique. In this study, the effect of processing conditions such as sintering atmosphere, sample size, density and grain size on the flash onset of hydroxyapatite was investigated. In a vacuum atmosphere, a flash occurred at a lower temperature by 50–100 °C than in air. The smaller the thickness of the sample, the higher the flash onset temperature due to the larger specific surface area. Flash was also observed in samples which were presintered, having a density of 86–100% and a grain size of 0.2–0.9 μm. When the density and grain size of the sample were higher and larger, the flash onset temperature was higher. It was because the diffusion and conduction path through the grain boundary and the inner surface of the pores with high defect concentration are blocked with an increase of density or grain size. When an electric field was applied during flash sintering, a color change of the sample was observed and the reason was discussed.
In Vitro Cell Interactions on PVDF Films: Effects of Surface Morphology and Polar Phase Transition
Authors: Alvarez-Perez Marco A. , Cirillo Valentina , Pastore Carbone Maria Giovanna , Pannico Marianna , Musto Pellegrino , Guarino Vincenzo
Published: September 2021

In recent years, several studies have validated the use of piezoelectric materials for in situ biological stimulation, opening new interesting insights for bio-electric therapies. In this work, we investigate the morphological properties of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) in the form of microstructured films after temperature-driven phase transition. The work aims to investigate the correlations between morphology at micrometric (i.e., spherulite size) and sub-micrometric (i.e., phase crystallinity) scale and in vitro cell response to validate their use as bio-functional interfaces for cellular studies. Morphological analyses (SEM, AFM) enabled evidence of the peculiar spherulite-like structure and the dependence of surface properties (i.e., intra-/interdomain roughness) upon process conditions (i.e., temperature). Meanwhile, chemical (i.e., FTIR) and thermal (i.e., DSC) analyses highlighted an influence of casting temperature and polymer solution on apolar to polar phases transition, thus affecting in vitro cell response. Accordingly, in vitro tests confirmed the relationship between micro/sub-microstructural properties and hMSC response in terms of adhesion and viability, thus suggesting a promising use of PVDF films to model, in perspective, in vitro functionalities of cells under electrical stimuli upon mechanical solicitation.
Titanium Allergy Caused by Dental Implants: A Systematic Literature Review and Case Report
Authors: Poli Pier Paolo , de Miranda Fábio Vieira , Polo Tárik Ocon Braga , Santiago Júnior Joel Ferreira , Lima Neto Tiburtino José , Rios Bárbara Ribeiro , Assunção Wirley Gonçalves , Ervolino Edilson , Maiorana Carlo , Faverani Leonardo Perez
Published: September 2021

(1) Background: Hypersensitivity reactions to metals may arise in predisposed patients chronically exposed to metallic materials, including dental implants made of titanium alloys. The purpose of this article was to systematically review titanium allergy manifestations in patients treated with dental implants and report a clinical case; (2) Methods: A systematic electronic search was performed for articles published in the English language until July 2021. The following eligibility criteria were adopted: (1) Population: individuals undergoing titanium and/or titanium alloy implant-supported rehabilitations; (2) Exposure: peri-implant soft tissue reactions attributable to implant insertion; (3) Outcome: evidence of titanium allergy, diagnostic methods, and forms of resolution; (3) Results: The included studies, in summary, presented evidence that titanium should not be considered an inert material, being able to trigger allergic reactions, and may be responsible for implant failure. A 55-year-old male patient received 3 implants in the posterior region of the left mandible and presented an epulis-like lesion developed from the peri-implant mucosa. The immunohistochemical analysis of the biopsy specimen confirmed the initial diagnosis of allergic reaction to titanium; (4) Conclusions: Although the evidence is weak, and titanium allergy has a low incidence, hypersensitivity reactions should not be underestimated. A rapid and conclusive diagnosis is mandatory to prevent further complications.
Influence of Magnetite Nanoparticles Shape and Spontaneous Surface Oxidation on the Electron Transport Mechanism
Authors: Radoń Adrian , Kądziołka-Gaweł Mariola , Łukowiec Dariusz , Gębara Piotr , Cesarz-Andraczke Katarzyna , Kolano-Burian Aleksandra , Włodarczyk Patryk , Polak Marcin , Babilas Rafał
Published: September 2021

The spontaneous oxidation of a magnetite surface and shape design are major aspects of synthesizing various nanostructures with unique magnetic and electrical properties, catalytic activity, and biocompatibility. In this article, the roles of different organic modifiers on the shape and formation of an oxidized layer composed of maghemite were discussed and described in the context of magnetic and electrical properties. It was confirmed that Fe3O4 nanoparticles synthesized in the presence of triphenylphosphine could be characterized by cuboidal shape, a relatively low average particle size (9.6 ± 2.0 nm), and high saturation magnetization equal to 55.2 emu/g. Furthermore, it has been confirmed that low-frequency conductivity and dielectric properties are related to surface disordering and oxidation. The electric energy storage possibility increased for nanoparticles with a disordered and oxidized surface, whereas the dielectric losses in these particles were strongly related to their size. The cuboidal magnetite nanoparticles synthesized in the presence of triphenylphosphine had an ultrahigh electrical conductivity (1.02 × 10−4 S/cm at 10 Hz) in comparison to the spherical ones. At higher temperatures, the maghemite content altered the behavior of electrons. The electrical conductivity can be described by correlated barrier hopping or overlapping large polaron tunneling. Interestingly, the activation energies of electrons transport by the surface were similar for all the analyzed nanoparticles in low- and high-temperature ranges.
Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of X6CrNiMoVNb11-2 Stainless Steel after Heat Treatment
Authors: Fu Jia , Xia Chaoqi
Published: September 2021

X6CrNiMoVNb11-2 supermartensitic stainless steel, a special type of stainless steel, is commonly used in the production of gas turbine discs in liquid rocket engines and compressor disks in aero engines. By optimizing the parameters of the heat-treatment process, its mechanical properties are specially adjusted to meet the performance requirement in that particular practical application during the advanced composite casting-rolling forming process. The relationship between the microstructure and mechanical properties after quenching from 1040 °C and tempering at 300–670 °C was studied, where the yield strength, tensile strength, elongation and impact toughness under different cooling conditions are obtained by means of mechanical property tests. A certain amount of high-density nanophase precipitation is found in the martensite phase transformation through the heat treatment involved in the quenching and tempering processes, where M23C6 carbides are dispersed in lamellar martensite, with the close-packed Ni3Mo and Ni3Nb phases of high-density co-lattice nanocrystalline precipitation created during the tempering process. The ideal process parameters are to quench at 1040 °C in an oil-cooling medium and to temper at 650 °C by air-cooling; final hardness is averaged about 313 HV, with an elongation of 17.9%, the cross-area reduction ratio is 52%, and the impact toughness is about 65 J, respectively. Moreover, the tempered hardness equation, considering various tempering temperatures, is precisely fitted. This investigation helps us to better understand the strengthening mechanism and performance controlling scheme of martensite stainless steel during the cast-rolling forming process in future applications.
Effects of Basalt and Carbon Fillers on Fire Hazard, Thermal, and Mechanical Properties of EPDM Rubber Composites
Authors: Rybiński Przemysław , Syrek Bartłomiej , Marzec Anna , Szadkowski Bolesław , Kuśmierek Małgorzata , Śliwka-Kaszyńska Magdalena , Mirkhodjaev Ulugbek Zakirovich
Published: September 2021

Due to growing restrictions on the use of halogenated flame retardant compounds, there is great research interest in the development of fillers that do not emit toxic compounds during thermal decomposition. Polymeric composite materials with reduced flammability are increasingly in demand. Here, we demonstrate that unmodified graphene and carbon nanotubes as well as basalt fibers or flakes can act as effective flame retardants in polymer composites. We also investigate the effects of mixtures of these carbon and mineral fillers on the thermal, mechanical, and rheological properties of EPDM rubber composites. The thermal properties of the EPDM vulcanizates were analyzed using the thermogravimetric method. Flammability was determined by pyrolysis combustion flow calorimetry (PCFC) and cone calorimetry.
Ferromagnetic Resonance Studies in Magnetic Nanosystems
Authors: Schmool David S. , Markó Daniel , Lin Ko-Wei , Hierro-Rodríguez Aurelio , Quirós Carlos , Díaz Javier , Álvarez-Prado Luis Manuel , Wu Jong-Ching
Published: September 2021

Ferromagnetic resonance is a powerful method for the study of all classes of magnetic materials. The experimental technique has been used for many decades and is based on the excitation of a magnetic spin system via a microwave (or rf) field. While earlier methods were based on the use of a microwave spectrometer, more recent developments have seen the widespread use of the vector network analyzer (VNA), which provides a more versatile measurement system at almost comparable sensitivity. While the former is based on a fixed frequency of excitation, the VNA enables frequency-dependent measurements, allowing more in-depth analysis. We have applied this technique to the study of nanostructured thin films or nanodots and coupled magnetic layer systems comprised of exchange-coupled ferromagnetic layers with in-plane and perpendicular magnetic anisotropies. In the first system, we have investigated the magnetization dynamics in Co/Ag bilayers and nanodots. In the second system, we have studied Permalloy (Ni80Fe20, hereafter Py) thin films coupled via an intervening Al layer of varying thickness to a NdCo film which has perpendicular magnetic anisotropy.
Marine Pyrrole Alkaloids
Authors: Seipp Kevin , Geske Leander , Opatz Till
Published: September 2021

Nitrogen heterocycles are essential parts of the chemical machinery of life and often reveal intriguing structures. They are not only widespread in terrestrial habitats but can also frequently be found as natural products in the marine environment. This review highlights the important class of marine pyrrole alkaloids, well-known for their diverse biological activities. A broad overview of the marine pyrrole alkaloids with a focus on their isolation, biological activities, chemical synthesis, and derivatization covering the decade from 2010 to 2020 is provided. With relevant structural subclasses categorized, this review shall provide a clear and timely synopsis of this area.
Relationship between the Severity of Anxiety Symptoms, Aggression and Alcohol Consumption during the COVID-19 Pandemic Period
Authors: Florek Szymon , Dębski Paweł , Piegza Magdalena , Gorczyca Piotr , Pudlo Robert
Published: September 2021

Background and objectives: There have been many reports of mental health in the pandemic period. The research conducted so far has indicated an increase in the severity of anxiety and aggression and an escalation of alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the severity of anxiety, the amount of alcohol consumed and the severity of aggression. Materials and Methods: A total of 538 Polish residents—413 women (76.77%) and 125 men (23.23%)—participated in the study via an online survey. It included socio-demographic parameters and psychological scales: AUDIT—to determine the model of alcohol consumption, GAD-7—to measure the severity of anxiety and the Buss–Perry Aggression Questionnaire. Results: There was a correlation between the severity of anxiety and generalized aggression, and its two components—anger and hostility—in the entire study group. Moreover, relations were found between the intensity of alcohol consumption and generalized aggression and its components—anger and verbal and physical aggression. Those relationships turned out to be gender specific. The increased anxiety intensity affected the pattern of alcohol consumption and the severity of aggression. Conclusions: Psychotherapeutic and psychoeducational interactions and some elements of psychiatric treatment should aim at reducing the severity of anxiety in society, and thus minimizing the health and social consequences—aggressive behaviour and excessive alcohol consumption.
Transition of Living Arrangement and Cognitive Impairment Status among Chinese Older Adults: Are They Associated?
Authors: Lee Yen-Han , Lin Chia-Hung , Chang Jia-Ren , Liu Ching-Ti , Shelley Mack , Chang Yen-Chang
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: Living arrangement is a crucial factor for older adults’ health. It is even more critical for Chinese older adults due to the tradition of filial piety. With the aging of China’s population, the prevalence of cognitive impairment among older adults has increased. This study examines the association between living arrangement transition and cognitive function among Chinese older adults. Materials and Methods: Using three waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS; 2008–2009, 2011–2012, and 2014), we analyzed data for older adults (age ≥ 65) who lived with other household members and reported good cognitive function or mild cognitive impairment when they participated in the survey. Multistate Cox regression was employed to study changes in cognitive function. Results: Older adults who transitioned to living alone had lower risk of cognitive impairment (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.52, 0.83; p < 0.01), compared with those who continued to live with other household members. Moving into an institution was also not associated with cognitive impairment. Conclusions: With older adults’ transition to living alone, public health practitioners or social workers might educate them on the benefits of such a living arrangement for cognitive function.
Grain Boundary Diffusion Sources and Their Coating Methods for Nd-Fe-B Permanent Magnets
Authors: He Jiayi , Cao Jiali , Yu Zhigao , Song Wenyue , Yu Hongya , Hussain Mozaffar , Liu Zhongwu
Published: September 2021

Nd-Fe-B magnets containing no heavy rare earth (HRE) elements exhibit insufficient coercivity to withstand the demagnetization field at elevated temperatures. The grain boundary diffusion (GBD) process provides the best route to fabricate high-coercive Nd-Fe-B magnets with low consumption of expensive HRE resources. Here we give a special review on the grain boundary diffusion sources and their coating methods. Up to now, various types of grain boundary sources have been developed, starting from the earliest Tb or Dy metal. The HRE-M eutectic alloys were firstly proposed for reducing the cost of the diffusion source. After that, the diffusion sources based on light rare earth and even non rare earth elements have also been proposed, leading to new understanding of GBD. Now, the diffusion sources including inorganic compounds, metals, and alloys have been employed in the industry. At the same time, to coat the diffusion source on the magnets before diffusion treatment, various methods have been developed. Different from the previous review articles for GBD, this review gives an introduction of typical types of diffusion sources and their fabrication approaches. The effects of diffusion source on the microstructure and magnetic properties are summarized briefly. In particular, the principles and applicability of different coating approaches were discussed in detail. It is believed that this review can provide a technical guidance for the industry for designing the diffusion process and products meeting specific requirements.
Analysis and Control of Cracking and Wrinkling at the End of Seamless Steel Tube with Multi-Pass Large Deformation Diameter-Reducing
Authors: Liu Heng , Wang Liandong , Wang Xiaodi , Tan Qiying
Published: September 2021

Axial cracking and circumferential wrinkling are found at the end of seamless steel tubes during multi-pass large deformations pushing diameter-reducing (PDR), which seriously affects product quality. However, the cracking and wrinkling mechanism of PDR has not been elucidated yet. In this paper, the Equation of circumferential residual stress at the end was deduced from the warping deformation and shear stress. It is revealed that the circumferential residual stress in the end warping area from the inner to outer surface is tensile, and the generation mechanism of circumferential wrinkling on the inner wall at the end was revealed through the deformation analysis of PDR. The geometric model of the tube with periodic alternating variation of wall thickness was established to reveal the generation and development of circumferential wrinkling. In addition, the four-pass PDR experiments and simulations were developed to reveal the influence of reducing pass and wall thickness deviation on the end warpage, unevenness and circumferential residual tensile stress. The pushing-pulling diameter-reducing (PPDR) method was proposed to control the wrinkling and cracking. The simulation and experimental results showed that the end warpage, unevenness and circumferential residual tensile stress are all greatly decreased, and the risk of axial cracking and circumferential wrinkling is eliminated.
Metabolomic Analysis Reveals Changes in Plasma Metabolites in Response to Acute Cold Stress and Their Relationships to Metabolic Health in Cold-Acclimatized Humans
Authors: Kovaničová Zuzana , Karhánek Miloslav , Kurdiová Tímea , Baláž Miroslav , Wolfrum Christian , Ukropcová Barbara , Ukropec Jozef
Published: September 2021

Cold exposure results in activation of metabolic processes required for fueling thermogenesis, potentially promoting improved metabolic health. However, the metabolic complexity underlying this process is not completely understood. We aimed to analyze changes in plasma metabolites related to acute cold exposure and their relationship to cold-acclimatization level and metabolic health in cold-acclimatized humans. Blood samples were obtained before and acutely after 10–15 min of ice-water swimming (<5 °C) from 14 ice-water swimmers. Using mass spectrometry, 973 plasma metabolites were measured. Ice-water swimming induced acute changes in 70 metabolites. Pathways related to amino acid metabolism were the most cold-affected and cold-induced changes in several amino acids correlated with cold-acclimatization level and/or metabolic health markers, including atherogenic lipid profile or insulin resistance. Metabolites correlating with cold-acclimatization level were enriched in the linoleic/α-linolenic acid metabolic pathway. N-lactoyl-tryptophan correlated with both cold-acclimatization level and cold-induced changes in thyroid and parathyroid hormones. Acute cold stress in cold-acclimatized humans induces changes in plasma metabolome that involve amino acids metabolism, while the linoleic and α-linolenic acid metabolism pathway seems to be affected by regular cold exposure. Metabolites related to metabolic health, thermogenic hormonal regulators and acclimatization level might represent prospective molecular factors important in metabolic adaptations to regular cold exposure.
Thermodynamic Modeling of Hypergene Processes in Loparite Ore Concentration Tailings
Authors: Mazukhina Svetlana , Krasavtseva Eugenia , Makarov Dmitriy , Maksimova Victoria
Published: September 2021

Thermodynamic modeling was undertaken of hypergene processes in loparite ore concentration tailings at a temperature of 3 °C and 20 °C. We investigated water evaporation in the top layers of tailings in the summer months at low filtration coefficients. It was found that the main anions of pore solutions are CO32−, HCO3−, SO42−, HSiO3−, and cations—Na+ and K+. The main forms of REE migration have been revealed: lanthanum and cerium. Dominant newly formed phases in the system were shown to be gibbsite and goethite, minerals of the smectite group, muscovite, feldspars, silica, mica, apatite, secondary nepheline minerals, and strontianite.
An Old Technique with A Promising Future: Recent Advances in the Use of Electrodeposition for Metal Recovery
Authors: Delgado Yelitza , Fernández-Morales Francisco J. , Llanos Javier
Published: September 2021

Although the first published works on electrodeposition dates from more than one century ago (1905), the uses of this technique in the recovery of metals are attracting an increasing interest from the scientific community in the recent years. Moreover, the intense use of metals in electronics and the necessity to assure a second life of these devices in a context of circular economy, have increased the interest of the scientific community on electrodeposition, with almost 3000 works published per year nowadays. In this review, we aim to revise the most relevant and recent publications in the application of electrodeposition for metal recovery. These contributions have been classified into four main groups of approaches: (1) treatment and reuse of wastewater; (2) use of ionic liquids; (3) use of bio-electrochemical processes (microbial fuel cells and microbial electrolysis cells) and (4) integration of electrodeposition with other processes (bioleaching, adsorption, membrane processes, etc.). This would increase the awareness about the importance of the technology and would serve as a starting point for anyone that aims to start working in the field.
Ipertrofan Revisited—The Proposal of the Complete Stereochemistry of Mepartricin A and B
Authors: Szczeblewski Paweł , Andrałojć Witold , Polit Justyna , Żabka Aneta , Winnicki Konrad , Laskowski Tomasz
Published: September 2021

Being a methyl ester of partricin, the mepartricin complex is the active substance of a drug called Ipertrofan (Tricandil), which was proven to be useful in treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and chronic nonbacterial prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Nevertheless, no direct structural evidence on the stereochemistry of its components has been presented to date. In this contribution, we have conducted detailed, NMR-driven stereochemical studies on mepartricins A and B, aided by molecular dynamics simulations. The absolute configuration of all the stereogenic centers of mepartricin A and B was defined as 3R, 7R, 9R, 11S, 13S, 15R, 17S, 18R, 19S, 21R, 36S, 37R, and 38S, and proposed as 41R. The geometry of the heptaenic chromophore of both compounds has been established as 22E, 24E, 26E, 28Z, 30Z, 32E, and 34E. Our studies on mepartricin ultimately proved that partricins A and B are structurally identical to the previously described main components of the aureofacin complex: gedamycin and vacidin, respectively. The knowledge of the stereochemistry of this drug is a fundamental matter not only in terms of studies on its molecular mode of action, but also for potential derivatization, aiming at improvement of its pharmacological properties.
Positronium Confined in Nanocavities: The Role of Electron Exchange Correlations
Authors: Castelli Fabrizio , Consolati Giovanni , Tanzi Marlotti Giacomo
Published: September 2021

Positronium atoms (Ps) are commonly employed as a probe to characterize nanometric or subnanometric voids or vacancies in nonmetallic materials, where Ps can end up confined. The annihilation lifetime of a trapped Ps is strongly modified by pickoff and depends on the cavity size and on the electron density in the confining cavity surface. Here, we develop a theory of the Ps annihilation in nanocavities based on the fundamental role of the exchange correlations between the Ps-electron and the outer electrons, which are not usually considered but must be considered to correctly theorize the pickoff annihilation processes. We obtain an important relation connecting the two relevant annihilation rates (for the p-Ps and the o-Ps) with the electron density, which has the property of being totally independent of the geometrical characteristics of the nanoporous medium. This general relation can be used to gather information on the electron density and on the average cavity radius of the confining medium, starting from the experimental data on PALS annihilation spectra. Moreover, by analyzing our results, we also highlight that a reliable interpretation of the PALS spectra can only be obtained if the rule of 1/3 between the intensities of p-Ps and o-Ps lifetimes can be fulfilled.
3D-Printable Nanocellulose-Based Functional Materials: Fundamentals and Applications
Authors: Finny Abraham Samuel , Popoola Oluwatosin , Andreescu Silvana
Published: September 2021

Nanomaterials obtained from sustainable and natural sources have seen tremendous growth in recent times due to increasing interest in utilizing readily and widely available resources. Nanocellulose materials extracted from renewable biomasses hold great promise for increasing the sustainability of conventional materials in various applications owing to their biocompatibility, mechanical properties, ease of functionalization, and high abundance. Nanocellulose can be used to reinforce mechanical strength, impart antimicrobial activity, provide lighter, biodegradable, and more robust materials for packaging, and produce photochromic and electrochromic devices. While the fabrication and properties of nanocellulose are generally well established, their implementation in novel products and applications requires surface modification, assembly, and manufacturability to enable rapid tooling and scalable production. Additive manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing can improve functionality and enhance the ability to customize products while reducing fabrication time and wastage of materials. This review article provides an overview of nanocellulose as a sustainable material, covering the different properties, preparation methods, printability and strategies to functionalize nanocellulose into 3D-printed constructs. The applications of 3D-printed nanocellulose composites in food, environmental, and energy devices are outlined, and an overview of challenges and opportunities is provided.
Self-Assembled Triple (H+/O2−/e−) Conducting Nanocomposite of Ba-Co-Ce-Y-O into an Electrolyte for Semiconductor Ionic Fuel Cells
Authors: Xu Dan , Yan An , Xu Shifeng , Zhou Yongjun , Yang Shu , Zhang Rongyu , Yang Xu , Lu Yuzheng
Published: September 2021

Triple (H+/O2−/e−) conducting oxides (TCOs) have been extensively investigated as the most promising cathode materials for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) because of their excellent catalytic activity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and fast proton transport. However, here we report a stable twin-perovskite nanocomposite Ba-Co-Ce-Y-O (BCCY) with triple conducting properties as a conducting accelerator in semiconductor ionic fuel cells (SIFCs) electrolytes. Self-assembled BCCY nanocomposite is prepared through a complexing sol–gel process. The composite consists of a cubic perovskite (Pm-3m) phase of BaCo0.9Ce0.01Y0.09O3-δ and a rhombohedral perovskite (R-3c) phase of BaCe0.78Y0.22O3-δ. A new semiconducting–ionic conducting composite electrolyte is prepared for SIFCs by the combination of BCCY and CeO2 (BCCY-CeO2). The fuel cell with the prepared electrolyte (400 μm in thickness) can deliver a remarkable peak power density of 1140 mW·cm−2 with a high open circuit voltage (OCV) of 1.15 V at 550 °C. The interface band energy alignment is employed to explain the suppression of electronic conduction in the electrolyte. The hybrid H+/O2− ions transport along the surfaces or grain boundaries is identified as a new way of ion conduction. The comprehensive analysis of the electrochemical properties indicates that BCCY can be applied in electrolyte, and has shown tremendous potential to improve ionic conductivity and electrochemical performance.
Intelligent Temperature-Control of Drilling Fluid in Natural Gas Hydrate Formation by Nano-Silica/Modified n-Alkane Microcapsules
Authors: Zhang Yubin , Qiu Zhengsong , Mu Jiaxing , Ma Yongle , Zhao Xin , Zhong Hanyi , Huang Weian , Guo Pengfei
Published: September 2021

Inhibiting hydrate decomposition due to the friction heat generated by the drilling tools is one of the key factors for drilling hydrate formation. Since the existing method based on chemical inhibition technology can only delay the hydrate decomposition rate, a phase-change microcapsule was introduced in this paper to inhibit, by the intelligent control of the drilling fluid temperature, the decomposition of the formation hydrate, which was microencapsulated by modified n-alkane as the core material, and nano-silica was taken as the shell material. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), size distribution, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR) were utilized to characterize the structural properties of microcapsules. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) spectra displayed that the latent heat was 136.8 J/g in the case of melting enthalpy and 136.4 J/g in the case of solidification enthalpy, with an encapsulation efficiency of 62.6%. In addition, the prepared microcapsules also showed good thermal conductivity and reliability. By comparison, it was also proved that the microcapsules had good compatibility with drilling fluid, which can effectively control the temperature of drilling fluid for the inhibition of hydrate decomposition.
Ferulic Acid Metabolites Attenuate LPS-Induced Inflammatory Response in Enterocyte-like Cells
Authors: Serreli Gabriele , Naitza Micaela Rita , Zodio Sonia , Leoni Vera Piera , Spada Martina , Melis Maria Paola , Boronat Anna , Deiana Monica
Published: September 2021

Ferulic acid (FA) is a polyphenol pertaining to the class of hydroxycinnamic acids present in numerous foods of a plant origin. Its dietary consumption leads to the formation of several phase I and II metabolites in vivo, which represent the largest amount of ferulates in the circulation and in the intestine in comparison with FA itself. In this work, we evaluated their efficacy against the proinflammatory effects induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in intestinal Caco-2 cell monolayers, as well as the mechanisms underlying their protective action. LPS-induced overexpression of proinflammatory enzymes such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and the consequent hyperproduction of nitric oxide (NO) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) were limited by physiological relevant concentrations (1 µM) of FA, its derivatives isoferulic acid (IFA) and dihydroferulic acid (DHFA), and their glucuronidated and sulfated metabolites, which acted upstream by limiting the activation of MAPK p38 and ERK and of Akt kinase, thus decreasing the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-ĸB) translocation into the nucleus. Furthermore, the compounds were found to promote the expression of Nrf2, which may have contributed to the downregulation of NF-ĸB activity. The overall data show that phase I/II metabolites retain the efficacy of their dietary free form in contrasting inflammatory response.
Production, Consumption, and Potential Public Health Impact of Low- and No-Alcohol Products: Results of a Scoping Review
Authors: Anderson Peter , Kokole Daša , Llopis Eva Jane
Published: September 2021

Switching from higher strength to low- and no-alcohol products could result in consumers buying and drinking fewer grams of ethanol. We undertook a scoping review with systematic searches of English language publications between 1 January 2010 and 17 January 2021 using PubMed and Web of Science, covering production, consumption, and policy drivers related to low- and no-alcohol products. Seventy publications were included in our review. We found no publications comparing a life cycle assessment of health and environmental impacts between alcohol-free and regular-strength products. Three publications of low- and no-alcohol beers found only limited penetration of sales compared with higher strength beers. Two publications from only one jurisdiction (Great Britain) suggested that sales of no- and low-alcohol beers replaced rather than added to sales of higher strength beers. Eight publications indicated that taste, prior experiences, brand, health and wellbeing issues, price differentials, and overall decreases in the social stigma associated with drinking alcohol-free beverages were drivers of the purchase and consumption of low- and no-alcohol beers and wines. Three papers indicated confusion amongst consumers with respect to the labelling of low- and no-alcohol products. One paper indicated that the introduction of a minimum unit price in both Scotland and Wales favoured shifts in purchases from higher- to lower-strength beers. The evidence base for the potential beneficial health impact of low- and no-alcohol products is very limited and needs considerable expansion. At present, the evidence base could be considered inadequate to inform policy.
An Updated Comprehensive Review on Vitamin A and Carotenoids in Breast Cancer: Mechanisms, Genetics, Assessment, Current Evidence, and Future Clinical Implications
Authors: Kim Jee Ah , Jang Ja-Hyun , Lee Soo-Youn
Published: September 2021

Vitamin A and carotenoids are fat-soluble micronutrients that play important role as powerful antioxidants modulating oxidative stress and cancer development. Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women. As the risk of breast cancer is dependent on various lifestyle factors such as dietary modifications, there is increasing interest surrounding the anti-cancerous properties of vitamin A and carotenoids. Despite the suggested protective roles of vitamin A and carotenoids in breast cancer development, their clinical application for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer is limited. In this narrative review, we discuss the roles of vitamin A and carotenoids along with the evaluation method of vitamin A status. We also exhibit the association of genetic variations involved in metabolism of vitamin A and carotenoids with cancers and other diseases. We demonstrate the epidemiological evidence for the relationship of vitamin A and carotenoids with breast cancer risk, their effects on cancer mechanism, and the recent updates in clinical practice of vitamin A or carotenoids as a potential therapeutic agent against breast cancer. This review provides insight into the preventive and therapeutic roles of vitamin A and carotenoids in breast cancer development and progression.
Evaluation of the Food Choice Motives before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study of 1232 Adults from Croatia
Authors: Sorić Tamara , Brodić Ivona , Mertens Elly , Sagastume Diana , Dolanc Ivan , Jonjić Antonija , Delale Eva Anđela , Mavar Mladen , Missoni Saša , Peñalvo José L. , Čoklo Miran
Published: September 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic brought changes to almost every segment of our lives, including dietary habits. We present one among several studies, and the first on the Croatian population, aiming at investigating changes of food choice motives before and during the pandemic. The study was performed in June 2021 as an online-based survey, using a 36-item Food Choice Questionnaire applied for both the periods before and during the pandemic. The final sample consisted of 1232 adults living in Croatia. Sensory appeal was ranked as the number one most important food choice motive before, whereas health was ranked as the number one most important food choice motive during the pandemic. Ethical concern was reported as the least important food choice motive both before and during the pandemic. In women, natural content (p = 0.002), health, convenience, price, weight control, familiarity, and ethical concern (all p < 0.001) became more important during the pandemic, while price (p = 0.009), weight control, familiarity, and ethical concern (all p < 0.001) became more relevant for men. All together, these can be considered favorable changes toward optimal diets and may result in beneficial influences on health and lifestyle. Education strategies and efficiently tackling misinformation are prerequisites for informed food choice, which will ensure long-lasting positive effects of such changes.
Metabolic Profile and Bone Status in Post-Menopausal Women with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Monocentric Retrospective Survey
Authors: Paolino Sabrina , Hysa Elvis , Stoian Sabrina Atena , Gotelli Emanuele , Casabella Andrea , Clini Paolo Vittoriano , Pacini Greta , Pizzorni Carmen , Sulli Alberto , Nikiphorou Elena , Smith Vanessa , Cutolo Maurizio
Published: September 2021

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are chronic conditions that share common inflammatory mechanisms. Both diseases can lead to an impairment of the bone microarchitecture. The aims of our study were to evaluate clinical, metabolic, and bone parameters in RA patients with or without MetS (MetS+, MetS−) and potential correlations between the glico-lipidic profile, RA disease activity, and bone status. Methods: A total of thirty-nine RA female post-menopausal patients were recruited (median age 66.6 ± 10.4, disease duration 3 ± 2.7). Anthropometric data, medical history, and current treatment were recorded along with basal blood tests, bone, and lipid metabolism biomarkers. RA disease activity and insulin resistance were evaluated through standard scores. Quantitative assessment of the bone (bone mineral density—BMD) was performed by dual-energy-X ray absorption (DXA), whereas bone quality was quantified with the trabecular bone score (TBS). Results: No statistically significant differences concerning both BMD and TBS were detected between the MetS+ and MetS− RA patients. However, the MetS+ RA patients exhibited significantly higher disease activity and lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations (respectively, p = 0.04 and p = 0.01). In all RA patients, a significant negative correlation emerged between the BMD of the femoral trochanter with plasmatic triglycerides (TG) concentrations (r = −0.38, p = 0.01), whereas the lumbar BMD was positively correlated with the abdominal waist (AW) and fasting glucose (FG) concentrations. On the other hand, the TBS was negatively correlated with insulin concentrations, FG, and RA disease activity (respectively, r = −0.45, p = 0.01, r = −0.40, p = 0.03, r = −0.37, p = 0.04), the last one was further negatively correlated with 25-OHD serum concentrations (r = −0.6, p = 0.0006) and insulin-resistance (r = 0.3, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Bone quantity (BMD) and quality (TBS) do not seem significantly changed among MetS+ and MetS− RA patients; however, among MetS+ patients, both significantly higher disease activity and lower vitamin D serum concentrations were observed. In addition, the significant negative correlations between the alterations of metabolic parameters limited to the TBS in all RA patients might suggest that qualitative bone microarchitecture impairments (TBS) might manifest despite unchanged BMD values.
Alcohol’s Impact on the Gut and Liver
Authors: Pohl Keith , Moodley Prebashan , Dhanda Ashwin D.
Published: September 2021

Alcohol is inextricably linked with the digestive system. It is absorbed through the gut and metabolised by hepatocytes within the liver. Excessive alcohol use results in alterations to the gut microbiome and gut epithelial integrity. It contributes to important micronutrient deficiencies including short-chain fatty acids and trace elements that can influence immune function and lead to liver damage. In some people, long-term alcohol misuse results in liver disease progressing from fatty liver to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, and results in over half of all deaths from chronic liver disease, over half a million globally per year. In this review, we will describe the effect of alcohol on the gut, the gut microbiome and liver function and structure, with a specific focus on micronutrients and areas for future research.
Development of a Food-Based Diet Quality Scale for Brazilian Schoolchildren Using Item Response Theory
Authors: Giacomelli Simone de C. , de Assis Maria Alice A. , de Andrade Dalton F. , Schmitt Jeovani , Hinnig Patrícia de F. , Borgatto Adriano F. , Engel Raquel , Vieira Francilene G. K. , Fiates Giovanna M. R. , Di Pietro Patricia F.
Published: September 2021

Item response theory (IRT) is a psychometric method that provides probabilistic model-based measurements. Its use is relatively recent in the assessment of food consumption, especially through dietary assessment tools. This study aims (1) to develop a food-based diet quality scale for Brazilian schoolchildren using IRT, and (2) to apply the scale to a representative sample of schoolchildren from a Southern Brazilian city. The scale was developed with daily consumption frequency of foods from 835 students who completed the Food Intake and Physical Activity of Schoolchildren questionnaire. Questionnaire foods were grouped into 10 items according to their nutritional similarities and were evaluated by full-information factor analysis that indicated a dominant factor explaining 28% of the variance. Psychometric item analysis was performed using Samejima’s model. The scale covered all levels of diet quality, from “very poor” (scores < 95) to “very good” (scores ≥ 130). Children who had higher diet quality scores consumed beans, meat, fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and water more frequently, while reducing the consumption of ultraprocessed sugary foods, ultraprocessed savoury snacks and sausages, and sugary drinks. Of 6323 children, an average of less than 10% consumed the highest diet quality scores (good or very good diet quality) and about 60% of children consumed low diet quality scores. The scale can be applied to other schoolchildren with the same measure precision.
Energy Achievement Rate Is an Independent Factor Associated with Intensive Care Unit Mortality in High-Nutritional-Risk Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Requiring Prolonged Prone Positioning Therapy
Authors: Fu Pin-Kuei , Wang Chen-Yu , Wang Wei-Ning , Hsu Chiann-Yi , Lin Shih-Pin , Kuo Chen-Tsung
Published: September 2021

Early enteral nutrition (EN) and a nutrition target >60% are recommended for patients in the intensive care unit (ICU), even for those with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Prolonged prone positioning (PP) therapy (>48 h) is the rescue therapy of ARDS, but it may worsen the feeding status because it requires the heavy sedation and total paralysis of patients. Our previous studies demonstrated that energy achievement rate (EAR) >65% was a good prognostic factor in ICU. However, its impact on the mortality of patients with ARDS requiring prolonged PP therapy remains unclear. We retrospectively analyzed 79 patients with high nutritional risk (modified nutrition risk in the critically ill; mNUTRIC score ≥5); and identified factors associated with ICU mortality by using a Cox regression model. Through univariate analysis, mNUTRIC score, comorbid with malignancy, actual energy intake, and EAR (%) were associated with ICU mortality. By multivariate analysis, EAR (%) was a strong predictive factor of ICU mortality (HR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.07–0.56). EAR >65% was associated with lower 14-day, 28-day, and ICU mortality after adjustment for confounding factors. We suggest early EN and increase EAR >65% may benefit patients with ARDS who required prolonged PP therapy.