bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship Study of Antioxidant Tripeptides Based on Model Population Analysis
Authors: Deng Baichuan , Long Hongrong , Tang Tianyue , Ni Xiaojun , Chen Jialuo , Yang Guangming , Zhang Fan , Cao Ruihua , Cao Dongsheng , Zeng Maomao , Yi Lunzhao
Published: February 2019

Due to their beneficial effects on human health, antioxidant peptides have attracted much attention from researchers. However, the structure-activity relationships of antioxidant peptides have not been fully understood. In this paper, quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSAR) models were built on two datasets, i.e., the ferric thiocyanate (FTC) dataset and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) dataset, containing 214 and 172 unique antioxidant tripeptides, respectively. Sixteen amino acid descriptors were used and model population analysis (MPA) was then applied to improve the QSAR models for better prediction performance. The results showed that, by applying MPA, the cross-validated coefficient of determination (Q2) was increased from 0.6170 to 0.7471 for the FTC dataset and from 0.4878 to 0.6088 for the FRAP dataset, respectively. These findings indicate that the integration of different amino acid descriptors provide additional information for model building and MPA can efficiently extract the information for better prediction performance.
Aberrant Calcium Signals in Reactive Astrocytes: A Key Process in Neurological Disorders
Authors: Shigetomi Eiji , Saito Kozo , Sano Fumikazu , Koizumi Schuichi
Published: February 2019

Astrocytes are abundant cells in the brain that regulate multiple aspects of neural tissue homeostasis by providing structural and metabolic support to neurons, maintaining synaptic environments and regulating blood flow. Recent evidence indicates that astrocytes also actively participate in brain functions and play a key role in brain disease by responding to neuronal activities and brain insults. Astrocytes become reactive in response to injury and inflammation, which is typically described as hypertrophy with increased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Reactive astrocytes are frequently found in many neurological disorders and are a hallmark of brain disease. Furthermore, reactive astrocytes may drive the initiation and progression of disease processes. Recent improvements in the methods to visualize the activity of reactive astrocytes in situ and in vivo have helped elucidate their functions. Ca2+ signals in reactive astrocytes are closely related to multiple aspects of disease and can be a good indicator of disease severity/state. In this review, we summarize recent findings concerning reactive astrocyte Ca2+ signals. We discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying aberrant Ca2+ signals in reactive astrocytes and the functional significance of aberrant Ca2+ signals in neurological disorders.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Bacterial Fouling-Resistance Properties of Polyethylene Glycol-Grafted Polyurethane Elastomers
Authors: Francolini Iolanda , Silvestro Ilaria , Di Lisio Valerio , Martinelli Andrea , Piozzi Antonella
Published: February 2019

Despite advances in material sciences and clinical procedures for surgical hygiene, medical device implantation still exposes patients to the risk of developing local or systemic infections. The development of efficacious antimicrobial/antifouling materials may help with addressing such an issue. In this framework, polyethylene glycol (PEG)-grafted segmented polyurethanes were synthesized, physico-chemically characterized, and evaluated with respect to their bacterial fouling-resistance properties. PEG grafting significantly altered the polymer bulk and surface properties. Specifically, the PEG-grafted polyurethanes possessed a more pronounced hard/soft phase segregated microstructure, which contributed to improving the mechanical resistance of the polymers. The better flexibility of the soft phase in the PEG-functionalized polyurethanes compared to the pristine polyurethane (PU) was presumably also responsible for the higher ability of the polymer to uptake water. Additionally, dynamic contact angle measurements evidenced phenomena of surface reorganization of the PEG-functionalized polyurethanes, presumably involving the exposition of the polar PEG chains towards water. As a consequence, Staphylococcus epidermidis initial adhesion onto the surface of the PEG-functionalized PU was essentially inhibited. That was not true for the pristine PU. Biofilm formation was also strongly reduced.
A New Rapid Incremental Algorithm for Constructing Concept Lattices
Authors: Zhang Jingpu , Liu Ronghui , Zou Ligeng , Zeng Licheng
Published: February 2019

Formal concept analysis has proven to be a very effective method for data analysis and rule extraction, but how to build formal concept lattices is a difficult and hot topic. In this paper, an efficient and rapid incremental concept lattice construction algorithm is proposed. The algorithm, named FastAddExtent, is seen as a modification of AddIntent in which we improve two fundamental procedures, including fixing the covering relation and searching the canonical generator. The proposed algorithm can locate the desired concept quickly by adding data fields to every concept. The algorithm is depicted in detail, using a formal context to show how the new algorithm works and discussing time and space complexity issues. We also present an experimental evaluation of its performance and comparison with AddExtent. Experimental results show that the FastAddExtent algorithm can improve efficiency compared with the primitive AddExtent algorithm.
Genomic Variations in Susceptibility to Intracranial Aneurysm in the Korean Population
Authors: Hong Eun Pyo , Kim Bong Jun , Cho Steve S. , Yang Jin Seo , Choi Hyuk Jai , Kang Suk Hyung , Jeon Jin Pyeong
Published: February 2019

Genome-wide association studies found genetic variations with modulatory effects for intracranial aneurysm (IA) formations in European and Japanese populations. We aimed to identify the susceptibility of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to IA in a Korean population consisting of 250 patients, and 294 controls using the Asian-specific Axiom Precision Medicine Research Array. Twenty-nine SNPs reached a genome-wide significance threshold (5 × 10−8). The rs371331393 SNP, with a stop-gain function of ARHGAP32 (11q24.3), showed the most significant association with the risk of IA (OR = 43.57, 95% CI: 21.84–86.95; p = 9.3 × 10−27). Eight out of 29 SNPs—GBA (rs75822236), TCF24 (rs112859779), OLFML2A (rs79134766), ARHGAP32 (rs371331393), CD163L1 (rs138525217), CUL4A (rs74115822), LOC102724084 (rs75861150), and LRRC3 (rs116969723)—demonstrated sufficient statistical power greater than or equal to 0.8. Two previously reported SNPs, rs700651 (BOLL, 2q33.1) and rs6841581 (EDNRA, 4q31.22), were validated in our GWAS (Genome-wide association study). In a subsequent analysis, three SNPs showed a significant difference in expressions: the rs6741819 (RNF144A, 2p25.1) was down-regulated in the adrenal gland tissue (p = 1.5 × 10−6), the rs1052270 (TMOD1. 9q22.33) was up-regulated in the testis tissue (p = 8.6 × 10−10), and rs6841581 (EDNRA, 4q31.22) was up-regulated in both the esophagus (p = 5.2 × 10−12) and skin tissues (1.2 × 10−6). Our GWAS showed novel candidate genes with Korean-specific variations in IA formations. Large population based studies are thus warranted.
Differences in Sexually Transmitted Infections between the Precrisis Period (2000–2007) and the Crisis Period (2008–2014) in Granada, Spain
Authors: Pérez-Morente María Ángeles , Sánchez-Ocón María Teresa , Martínez-García Encarnación , Martín-Salvador Adelina , Hueso-Montoro César , García-García Inmaculada
Published: February 2019

Objective: To analyze the difference in the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) between two time periods (2000–2007 and 2008–2014, with the latter period characterized by the economic crisis), as well as determine differences in sociodemographic factors, clinical care, and risk indicators. Methods: This was a retrospective, observational, and analytical study, reviewing 1437 medical records of subjects attending a specialized center in the province of Granada (Spain) for consultation associated with the presence or suspicion of an STI between 2000–2014. Data were collected on variables relating to the research objective. A descriptive and bivariate statistical analysis was performed by multiple logistic regression. Results: In the analysis comparing the presence of STIs between the crisis and non-crisis periods, the percentage of positive diagnoses reached 56.6% compared to 43.4% negative diagnoses during the non-crisis period, while the percentages were 75.2% and 24.8%, respectively, during the crisis period. This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001) with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.21 after adjusting for age, sex, days since last unprotected sexual intercourse, and partners in the last year. Conclusions: There are significant differences in the prevalence of STIs between the study periods, which is consistent with the reports of some authors regarding the effect of the financial crisis on these conditions; however, it is worth considering other aspects that might explain the differences.
Medication in AN: A Multidisciplinary Overview of Meta-Analyses and Systematic Reviews
Authors: Blanchet Corinne , Guillaume Sébastien , Bat-Pitault Flora , Carles Marie-Emilie , Clarke Julia , Dodin Vincent , Duriez Philibert , Gerardin Priscille , Hanachi-Guidoum Mouna , Iceta Sylvain , Leger Juliane , Segrestin Bérénice , Stheneur Chantal , Godart Nathalie
Published: February 2019

Drugs are widely prescribed for anorexia nervosa in the nutritional, somatic, and psychiatric fields. There is no systematic overview in the literature, which simultaneously covers all these types of medication. The main aims of this paper are (1) to offer clinicians an overview of the evidence-based data in the literature concerning the medication (psychotropic drugs and medication for somatic and nutritional complications) in the field of anorexia nervosa since the 1960s, (2) to draw practical conclusions for everyday practise and future research. Searches were performed on three online databases, namely MEDLINE, Epistemonikos and Web of Science. Papers published between September 2011 and January 2019 were considered. Evidence-based data were identified from meta-analyses, if there were none, from systematic reviews, and otherwise from trials (randomized or if not open-label studies). Evidence-based results are scarce. No psychotropic medication has proved efficacious in terms of weight gain, and there is only weak data suggesting it can alleviate certain psychiatric symptoms. Concerning nutritional and somatic conditions, while there is no specific, approved medication, it seems essential not to neglect the interest of innovative therapeutic strategies to treat multi-organic comorbidities. In the final section we discuss how to use these medications in the overall approach to the treatment of anorexia nervosa.
Understanding Peri-Implantitis as a Plaque-Associated and Site-Specific Entity: On the Local Predisposing Factors
Authors: Monje Alberto , Insua Angel , Wang Hom-Lay
Published: February 2019

The prevalence of implant biological complications has grown enormously over the last decade, in concordance with the impact of biofilm and its byproducts upon disease development. Deleterious habits and systemic conditions have been regarded as risk factors for peri-implantitis. However, little is known about the influence of local confounders upon the onset and progression of the disease. The present narrative review therefore describes the emerging local predisposing factors that place dental implants/patients at risk of developing peri-implantitis. A review is also made of the triggering factors capable of inducing peri-implantitis and of the accelerating factors capable of interfering with the progression of the disease.
Effect of Calcium Precursor on the Bioactivity and Biocompatibility of Sol-Gel-Derived Glasses
Authors: Ruiz-Clavijo Alejandra , Hurt Andrew P. , Kotha Arun K. , Coleman Nichola J.
Published: February 2019

This study investigated the impact of different calcium reagents on the morphology, composition, bioactivity and biocompatibility of two-component (CaO-SiO2) glasses produced by the Stöber process with respect to their potential application in guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membranes for periodontal repair. The properties of the binary glasses were compared with those of pure silica Stöber particles. The direct addition of calcium chloride (CC), calcium nitrate (CN), calcium methoxide (CM) or calcium ethoxide (CE) at 5 mol % with respect to tetraethyl orthosilicate in the reagent mixture gave rise to textured, micron-sized aggregates rather than monodispersed ~500 nm spheres obtained from the pure silica Stöber synthesis. The broadening of the Si-O-Si band at ~1100 cm−1 in the infrared spectra of the calcium-doped glasses indicated that the silicate network was depolymerised by the incorporation of Ca2+ ions and energy dispersive X-ray analysis revealed that, in all cases, the Ca:Si ratios were significantly lower than the nominal value of 0.05. The distribution of Ca2+ ions was also found to be highly inhomogeneous in the methoxide-derived glass. All samples released soluble silica species on exposure to simulated body fluid, although only calcium-doped glasses exhibited in vitro bioactivity via the formation of hydroxyapatite. The biocompatibilities of model chitosan-glass GTR membranes were assessed using human MG63 osteosarcoma cells and were found to be of the order: CN < pure silica ≈ CC << CM ≈ CE. Calcium nitrate is the most commonly reported precursor for the sol-gel synthesis of bioactive glasses; however, the incomplete removal of nitrate ions during washing compromised the cytocompatibility of the resulting glass. The superior bioactivity and biocompatibility of the alkoxide-derived glasses is attributed to their ease of dissolution and lack of residual toxic anions. Overall, calcium ethoxide was found to be the preferred precursor with respect to extent of calcium-incorporation, homogeneity, bioactivity and biocompatibility.
Above Water Electric Potential Signatures of Submerged Naval Vessels
Authors: Schaefer David , Thiel Christian , Doose Jens , Rennings Andreas , Erni Daniel
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we investigate the fundamental linkage between underwater electric potential (UEP) signatures and their related electric fields above the waterline, which are introduced as above water electric potential (AEP) signatures. As a first step, the field distribution for an underwater point source excitation (fundamental solution) is derived analytically, using an adjusted method of images. Subsequently a numerical approach is introduced, whereby the calculation of the stationary current density distribution and electrostatic fields are coupled within an FEM simulation. Simulation results are presented for the aforementioned point source, as well as for a submarine model, where the latter includes considering non-linear polarization curves to model the electrochemical behavior at the metal–seawater interface. Finally, the relevance of AEP signatures in the context of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) is discussed. Our results show that AEP signatures inevitably occur along with UEP signatures, and could therefore in principal be used to detect submerged submarines via airborne sensors. However, an estimation of the expectable signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) suggests that AEP signatures are difficult to exploit and therefore entail a much lower risk compared to other signatures.
Oil Spill Scenarios in the Kotor Bay: Results from High Resolution Numerical Simulations
Authors: Zanier Giulia , Palma Massimiliano , Petronio Andrea , Roman Federico , Armenio Vincenzo
Published: February 2019

A major threat for marine and coastal environment comes from oil spill accidents. Such events have a great impact on both the ecosystem and on the economy, and the risk increases over time due to increasing ship traffic in many sensitive areas. In recent years, numerical simulation of oil spills has become an affordable tool for the analysis of the risk and for the preparation of contingency plans. However, in coastal areas, the complexity of the bathymetry and of the orography requires an adequate resolution of sea and wind flows. For this reason, we present, to the best of the author’s knowledge, the first study on the subject adopting Large Eddy Simulations for both the low-atmosphere and sea dynamics in order to provide highly-resolved marine surface current and wind stress to the oil slick model, within a one-way coupling procedure. Such approach is applied to the relevant case of Kotor Bay (UNESCO heritage since 1979), in Montenegro, which is a semi-closed basin surrounded by mountains that is subject to an intense ship traffic for touristic purposes. Oil spill spots are tracked along ship paths, in two wind scenarios.
Electroanalytical Performance of Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Films Processed in One Step by Pulsed Laser Deposition Directly Coupled with Thermal Annealing
Authors: Bourquard Florent , Bleu Yannick , Loir Anne-Sophie , Caja-Munoz Borja , Avila José , Asensio Maria-Carmen , Raimondi Gaëtan , Shokouhi Maryam , Rassas Ilhem , Farre Carole , Chaix Carole , Barnier Vincent , Jaffrezic-Renault Nicole , Garrelie Florence , Donnet Christophe
Published: February 2019

Graphene-based materials are widely studied to enable significant improvements in electroanalytical devices requiring new generations of robust, sensitive and low-cost electrodes. In this paper, we present a direct one-step route to synthetize a functional nitrogen-doped graphene film onto a Ni-covered silicon electrode substrate heated at high temperature, by pulsed laser deposition of carbon in the presence of a surrounding nitrogen atmosphere, with no post-deposition transfer of the film. With the ferrocene methanol system, the functionalized electrode exhibits excellent reversibility, close to the theoretical value of 59 mV, and very high sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide oxidation. Our electroanalytical results were correlated with the composition and nanoarchitecture of the N-doped graphene film containing 1.75 at % of nitrogen and identified as a few-layer defected and textured graphene film containing a balanced mixture of graphitic-N and pyrrolic-N chemical functions. The absence of nitrogen dopant in the graphene film considerably degraded some electroanalytical performances. Heat treatment extended beyond the high temperature graphene synthesis did not significantly improve any of the performances. This work contributes to a better understanding of the electrochemical mechanisms of doped graphene-based electrodes obtained by a direct and controlled synthesis process.
Anisotropic Properties of Polylactic acid–carbon Fiber Composites Prepared by Droplet spray Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Li Yongfeng , Ding Qingjun , Zhao Hongyuan , Wu Tingting , Zhang Mingming , Zhang Yaqi
Published: February 2019

Anisotropic materials are important functional materials in many fields. The use of these materials is currently being expanded through the rapid development of additive manufacturing. However, there is still no universal method for fabricating two-dimensional anisotropic polymer composites. Here, polylactic acid–carbon fiber composites were prepared using the droplet spray method, and their mechanical and friction properties were studied. The tensile strength in the X–Y plane perpendicular to the direction of the droplet spray was significantly higher than that in the direction of droplet ejection. Similar trends were observed for the elongation at breaking and the impact strength. The friction coefficient was smallest in the X–Y plane. Scanning electron microscopy showed that carbon fibers were oriented in the X–Y plane, which enhanced the mechanical and friction properties in this plane.
Enhancing Interfacial Bonding and Tensile Strength in CNT-Cu Composites by a Synergetic Method of Spraying Pyrolysis and Flake Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Chen Xiangyang , Bao Rui , Yi Jianhong , Fang Dong , Tao Jingmei , Liu Yichun
Published: February 2019

Carbon nanotube (CNT)-reinforced metal matrix composites (MMCs) face the problems of dispersion and interfacial wetting with regard to the matrix. A synergetic method of spray pyrolysis (SP) and flake powder metallurgy (FPM) is used in this paper to improve the dispersibility and interfacial bonding of CNTs in a Cu matrix. The results of the interface characterization show interface oxygen atoms (in the form of Cu2O) and a high density of dislocation areas, which is beneficial for interfacial bonding. The tensile results show that the tensile strength of the SP-CNT-Cu composites is much higher than that of the CNT-Cu composites when the mass fraction of the CNTs does not reach the critical value. This can be explained by the nanoparticles which are found on the surface of the CNTs during the SP process. These nanoparticles not only increase the tensile strength of the SP-CNT-Cu composites but also improve the dispersion of the CNTs in the Cu matrix. Thereby, uniform dispersion of CNTs, interfacial bonding between CNTs and the Cu matrix, and the enhancement of tensile strength are achieved simultaneously by the synergetic method.
Investigation of the Corrosion Behavior of Atomic Layer Deposited Al2O3/TiO2 Nanolaminate Thin Films on Copper in 0.1 M NaCl
Authors: Fusco Michael A. , Oldham Christopher J. , Parsons Gregory N.
Published: February 2019

Fifty nanometers of Al2O3 and TiO2 nanolaminate thin films deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) were investigated for protection of copper in 0.1 M NaCl using electrochemical techniques. Coated samples showed increases in polarization resistance over uncoated copper, up to 12 MΩ-cm2, as measured by impedance spectroscopy. Over a 72-h immersion period, impedance of the titania-heavy films was found to be the most stable, as the alumina films experienced degradation after less than 24 h, regardless of the presence of dissolved oxygen. A film comprised of alternating Al2O3 and TiO2 layers of 5 nm each (referenced as ATx5), was determined to be the best corrosion barrier of the films tested based on impedance spectroscopy measurements over 72 h and equivalent circuit modeling. Dissolved oxygen had a minimal effect on ALD film stability, and increasing the deposition temperature from 150 °C to 250 °C, although useful for increasing film quality, was found to be counterproductive for long-term corrosion protection. Implications of ALD film aging and copper-based surface film formation during immersion and testing are also discussed briefly. The results presented here demonstrate the potential for ultra-thin corrosion barrier coatings, especially for high aspect ratios and component interiors, for which ALD is uniquely suited.
Laser-Assisted Thermal Imprinting of Microlens Arrays—Effects of Pressing Pressure and Pattern Size
Authors: Nagato Keisuke , Yajima Yuki , Nakao Masayuki
Published: February 2019

Polymer films with nano- or microstructured surfaces have been widely applied to optical devices, bioplates, and printed electronics. Laser-assisted thermal imprinting (LATI), in which a laser directly heats the surfaces of a mold and a thermoplastic polymer, is one of the high-throughput methods of replicating nano- or microstructures on polymer films. Only the surfaces of the mold and polymer film are heated and cooled rapidly, therefore it is possible to replicate nano- or microstructures on polymer films more rapidly than by using conventional thermal nanoimprinting. In this study, microlens arrays (MLAs) were replicated on polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) films using LATI, and the effects of the pressing pressure (10−50 MPa) and the pattern size (33- and 5-μm pitch) of the MLA on the filling ratio were investigated by analyzing a microlens replicated using different laser-irradiation times (0.1−2 ms). The filling ratio increased with increasing pressing pressure and laser-irradiation time in the replication of MLAs with varying sizes, while the flow of the PMMA varied with the pressing pressure and laser-irradiation time. It was found that during filling, the shape of the polymer cross-sectional surface demonstrated a double and single peak in the 33- and 5-μm-pitch patterns, respectively. This was because the depth of the heated area in the 33-μm-pitch pattern was smaller than the pattern size, whereas that of the 5-μm-pitch pattern was comparable to (or larger) than the pattern size.
First-Principles Investigation of the Adsorption Behaviors of CH2O on BN, AlN, GaN, InN, BP, and P Monolayers
Authors: Feng Chuang , Qin Hongbo , Yang Daoguo , Zhang Guoqi
Published: February 2019

CH2O is a common toxic gas molecule that can cause asthma and dermatitis in humans. In this study the adsorption behaviors of the CH2O adsorbed on the boron nitride (BN), aluminum nitride (AlN), gallium nitride (GaN), indium nitride (InN), boron phosphide (BP), and phosphorus (P) monolayers were investigated using the first-principles method, and potential materials that could be used for detecting CH2O were identified. The gas adsorption energies, charge transfers and electronic properties of the gas adsorption systems have been calculated to study the gas adsorption behaviors of CH2O on these single-layer materials. The electronic characteristics of these materials, except for the BP monolayer, were observed to change after CH2O adsorption. For CH2O on the BN, GaN, BP, and P surfaces, the gas adsorption behaviors were considered to follow a physical trend, whereas CH2O was chemically adsorbed on the AlN and InN monolayers. Given their large gas adsorption energies and high charge transfers, the AlN, GaN, and InN monolayers are potential materials for CH2O detection using the charge transfer mechanism.
Theoretical Study of As2O3 Adsorption Mechanisms on CaO surface
Authors: Fan Yaming , Weng Qiyu , Zhuo Yuqun , Dong Songtao , Hu Pengbo , Li Duanle
Published: February 2019

Emission of hazardous trace elements, especially arsenic from fossil fuel combustion, have become a major concern. Under an oxidizing atmosphere, most of the arsenic converts to gaseous As2O3. CaO has been proven effective in capturing As2O3. In this study, the mechanisms of As2O3 adsorption on CaO surface under O2 atmosphere were investigated by density functional theory (DFT) calculation. Stable physisorption and chemisorption structures and related reaction paths are determined; arsenite (AsO33−) is proven to be the form of adsorption products. Under the O2 atmosphere, the adsorption product is arsenate (AsO43−), while tricalcium orthoarsenate (Ca3As2O8) and dicalcium pyroarsenate (Ca2As2O7) are formed according to different adsorption structures.
Dense Sm and Mn Co-Doped BaTiO3 Ceramics with High Permittivity
Authors: Liu Qiaoli , Liu Junwei , Lu Dayong , Li Tingqu , Zheng Weitao
Published: February 2019

The structure, valence state, and dielectric properties of (Ba1−xSmx)(Ti0.99Mn0.01)O3 (BSTM) (x = 0.02‒0.07) ceramics prepared via a high temperature (1400 °C/12 h) solid state reaction were investigated. A homogeneous and dense microstructure was observed in all samples. With increasing Sm content, the crystal structure changed from tetragonal (x ≤ 0.06) to cubic (x = 0.07) and unit cell volume (V0) decreased continuously, which was mainly due to the substitution of Ba2+ ions by smaller Sm3+ ions in the perovskite lattice. Electron paramagnetic resonance investigation revealed that Mn ions were reduced from high valence to low valence under the role of Sm3+ donor, and only Mn2+ ions were observed at x = 0.07. The Curie temperature (Tc) moved to lower values, from 105.5 down to 20.4 °C, and the x = 0.07 sample satisfied Y5V specification with high permittivity (ε′RT > 13,000) and low loss (tan δ < 0.03).
Atomic Layer Deposited TiO2 and Al2O3 Thin Films as Coatings for Aluminum Food Packaging Application
Authors: Dias Vanessa , Maciel Homero , Fraga Mariana , Lobo Anderson O. , Pessoa Rodrigo , Marciano Fernanda R.
Published: February 2019

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) coatings have been investigated in a wide range of bio-applications due to their biodegradation and biocompatibility properties, that are key parameters for their use in the food packaging and biomedical devices fields. The present study evaluates and compares the electrochemical behavior of the non-coated, commercial resin-coated, TiO2-coated and Al2O3-coated aluminum in commercial beer electrolyte. For this, TiO2 and Al2O3 thin films were deposited on aluminum (Al) substrates using atomic layer deposition (ALD). The evaluation of the corrosion barrier layer properties was performed by linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) during 10 min and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). In addition, profilometry, grazing incidence X-ray diffractometry (GIXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analyses were performed to investigate the physical and chemical properties of the pristine and / or corroded samples. TiO2 and Al2O3 films presented an amorphous structure, a morphology that follows Al substrate surface, and a thickness of around 100 nm. Analysis of LSV data showed that ALD coatings promoted a considerable increase in corrosion barrier efficiency being 86.3% for TiO2-coated Al and 80% for Al2O3-coated Al in comparison with 7.1% of commercial resin-coated Al. This is mainly due to the lower electrochemical porosity, 11.4% for TiO2-coated Al and 20.4% for Al2O3-coated Al in comparison with 96% of the resin-coated Al, i.e. an increase of up to twofold in the protection of Al when coated with TiO2 compared to Al2O3. The EIS results allow us to complement the discussions about the reduced corrosion barrier efficiency of the Al2O3 film for beer electrolyte once SEM and FT-IR analyzes did not show drastic changes in both investigated ALD films after the corrosion assays. The above results indicate that ALD TiO2 and Al2O3 films may be a viable alternative to replace the synthetic resin coatings frequently used in aluminum cans of use in the food industry.
Evaluation of the Impact of Strategic Offers on the Financial and Strategic Health of the Company—A Soft System Dynamics Approach
Authors: Banaś Dariusz , Michnik Jerzy
Published: February 2019

When analyzing the possibility of supporting the decision-making process, one should take into account the essential properties of economic entities (the system and its objects). As a result, the development of an effective business model ought to be based on rationality and the characteristics of the system being modeled. Such an approach implies the use of an appropriate analysis and modeling method. Since the majority of relationships in the model are described using the experts’ tacit knowledge, methods known as “soft” are more suitable than “hard” in those situations. Fuzzy cognitive mappings (FCM) are therefore commonly used as a technique for participatory modeling of the system, where stakeholders can convey their knowledge to the model of the system in question. In this study, we introduce a novel approach: the extended weighted influence nonlinear gauge system (WINGS), which may equally well be applied to the decision problems of this type. Appraisal of high-value and long-term offers in the sector of the telecommunication supplier industry serves as a real-world case study for testing the new method. A comparison with FCM provides a deeper understanding of the similarities and differences of the two approaches.
Barrel Jellyfish (Rhizostoma pulmo) as Source of Antioxidant Peptides
Authors: De Domenico Stefania , De Rinaldis Gianluca , Paulmery Mélanie , Piraino Stefano , Leone Antonella
Published: February 2019

The jellyfish Rhizostoma pulmo, Macrì 1778 (Cnidaria, Rhizostomae) undergoes recurrent outbreaks in the Mediterranean coastal waters, with large biomass populations representing a nuisance or damage for marine and maritime activities. A preliminary overview of the antioxidant activity (AA) of R. pulmo proteinaceous compounds is provided here based on the extraction and characterization of both soluble and insoluble membrane-fractioned proteins, the latter digested by sequential enzymatic hydrolyses with pepsin and collagenases. All jellyfish proteins showed significant AA, with low molecular weight (MW) proteins correlated with greater antioxidant activity. In particular, collagenase-hydrolysed collagen resulted in peptides with MW lower than 3 kDa, ranging 3–10 kDa or 10–30 kDa, with AA inversely proportional to MW. No cytotoxic effect was detected on cultured human keratinocytes (HEKa) in a range of protein concentration 0.05–20 μg/mL for all tested protein fractions except for soluble proteins higher than 30 kDa, likely containing the jellyfish venom compounds. Furthermore, hydrolyzed jellyfish collagen peptides showed a significantly higher AA and provided a greater protective effect against oxidative stress in HEKa than the hydrolyzed collagen peptides from vertebrates. Due to a high reproductive potential, jellyfish may represent a potential socioeconomic opportunity as a source of natural bioactive compounds, with far-reaching beneficial implications. Eventually, improvements in processing technology will promote the use of untapped marine biomasses in nutraceutical, cosmeceutical, and pharmaceutical fields, turning marine management problems into a more positive perspective.
Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Adolescents: eHealth, Co-Creation, and Advocacy
Authors: Raeside Rebecca , Partridge Stephanie R. , Singleton Anna , Redfern Julie
Published: February 2019

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally. Early atherosclerotic changes can begin to occur early in life and though adolescence. The prevalence of modifiable CVD risk factors, namely, smoking, poor diet quality, excessive alcohol intake, physical inactivity, and overweight and obesity can exacerbate the early onset of atherosclerosis. There is a need to improve modifiable risk factors during adolescence to prevent progression to CVD in later life. Electronic health (eHealth) behaviour change interventions are a potential solution for adolescents to improve CVD risk factors, given adolescents are digital frontrunners and digital technology is wide-reaching. The process of co-creating eHealth behaviour change interventions with adolescents is a promising strategy to improve intervention effectiveness and engagement. Additionally, effective youth advocacy is an emerging strategy for CVD prevention in adolescents. This narrative review evaluates published eHealth behaviour change interventions targeting cardiovascular disease risk factors in adolescents, which utilize a co-creation process, describe the emerging role of advocacy in CVD prevention for adolescents and provide recommendations for future interventions.
Analysis of Kerr Noise in Angular-Rate Sensing Based on Mode Splitting in a Whispering-Gallery-Mode Microresonator
Authors: Yang Zhaohua , Li Dan , Sun Yuzhe
Published: February 2019

Whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) microresonators have shown their potential in high-precision gyroscopes because of their small volume and high-quality factors. However, Kerr noise can always be the limit of accuracy. Angular-rate sensing based on mode splitting treats backscattering as a measured signal, which can induce mode splitting, while it is considered as a main source of noise in conventional resonator optical gyroscopes. Meanwhile, mode splitting also provides superior noise suppression owing to its self-reference scheme. Kerr noise in this scheme has not been defined and solved yet. Here, the mechanism of the Kerr noise in the measurement is analyzed and the mathematical expressions are derived, indicating the relationship between the Kerr noise and the output of the system. The influence caused by Kerr noise on the output is simulated and discussed. Simulations show that the deviation of the splitting caused by Kerr noise is 1.913 × 10−5 Hz at an angular rate of 5 × 106 °/s and the corresponding deviation of the angular rate is 9.26 × 10−9 °/s. It has been proven that angular-rate sensing based on mode splitting offers good suppression of Kerr noise.
A Comparative Assessment of Nanotoxicity Induced by Metal (Silver, Nickel) and Metal Oxide (Cobalt, Chromium) Nanoparticles in Labeo rohita
Authors: Kanwal Zakia , Raza Muhammad Akram , Manzoor Farkhanda , Riaz Saira , Jabeen Ghazala , Fatima Shafaq , Naseem Shahzad
Published: February 2019

In the present in vivo study, we provide a comparison of toxicological consequences induced by four different types of spherical nanoparticles (NPs)—silver nanoparticles (AgNPs, 40 ± 6 nm), nickel (NiNPs, 43 ± 6 nm), cobalt oxide (Co3O4NPs, 60 ± 6 nm), and chromium oxide (Cr3O4NPs, 50 ± 5 nm)—on freshwater fish Labeo rohita. Fish were exposed to NPs (25 mg/L) for 21 days. We observed a NPs type-dependent toxicity in fish. An altered behavior showing signs of stress and a substantial reduction in total leukocyte count was noticed in all NP-treated groups. A low total erythrocyte count in all NP-treated fish except for Co3O4NPs was discerned while a low survival rate in the case of Cr3O4NP-treated fish was observed. A significant decrease in growth and hemoglobin were noticed in NiNP- and Cr3O4NP-treated fish. A considerable total protein elevation was detected in NiNP-, Co3O4NP-, and Cr3O4NP-treated groups. An upgrading in albumin level was witnessed in Co3O4NP- and Cr3O4NP-treated groups while a high level of globulin was noted in NiNP- and Co3O4NP-exposed groups. In all NP-treated groups, a depleted activity of antioxidative enzymes and pathological lesions in liver and kidney were noticed.
Effects of Pharmacological Thermogenic Adipocyte Activation on Metabolism and Atherosclerotic Plaque Regression
Authors: Worthmann Anna , Schlein Christian , Berbée Jimmy F. P. , Rensen Patrick C. N. , Heeren Joerg , Bartelt Alexander
Published: February 2019

Thermogenic adipocytes burn nutrients in order to produce heat. Upon activation, brown adipose tissue (BAT) clears vast amounts of lipids and glucose from the circulation and thus substantially lowers plasma lipid levels. As a consequence, BAT activation protects from the development of atherosclerosis. However, it is unclear if pharmacologic activation of BAT can be exploited therapeutically to reduce plaque burden in established atherosclerotic disease. Here we study the impact of thermogenic adipose tissues on plaque regression in a mouse model of atherosclerosis. Thermogenic adipocytes in atherosclerotic low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor (LDLR)-deficient mice were pharmacologically activated by dietary CL316,243 (CL) treatment for 4 weeks and the outcomes on metabolically active tissues, plasma lipids and atherosclerosis were analyzed. While the chronic activation of thermogenic adipocytes reduced adiposity, increased browning of white adipose tissue (WAT), altered liver gene expression, and reduced plasma triglyceride levels, atherosclerotic plaque burden remained unchanged. Our findings suggest that despite improving adiposity and plasma triglycerides, pharmacologic activation of thermogenic adipocytes is not able to reverse atherosclerosis in LDLR-deficient mice.
Intraintestinal Delivery of Tastants Using a Naso-Duodenal-Ileal Catheter Does Not Influence Food Intake or Satiety
Authors: Klaassen Tim , Alleleyn Annick M. E. , van Avesaat Mark , Troost Freddy J. , Keszthelyi Daniel , Masclee Adrian A. M.
Published: February 2019

Intraduodenal activity of taste receptors reduces food intake. Taste receptors are expressed throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract. Currently, there are no data available on the effects of distal taste receptor activation. In this study, we investigate the effect of intraduodenal and/or intraileal activation of taste receptors on food intake and satiety. In a single-blind randomized crossover trial, fourteen participants were intubated with a naso-duodenal-ileal catheter and received four infusion regimens: duodenal placebo and ileal placebo (DPIP), duodenal tastants and ileal placebo (DTIP), duodenal placebo and ileal tastants (DPIT), duodenal tastants and ileal tastants (DTIT). Fifteen minutes after cessation of infusion, subjects received an ad libitum meal to measure food intake. Visual analog scale scores for satiety feelings were collected at regular intervals. No differences in food intake were observed between the various interventions (DPIP: 786.6 ± 79.2 Kcal, DTIP: 803.3 ± 69.0 Kcal, DPIT: 814.7 ± 77.3 Kcal, DTIT: 834.8 ± 59.2 Kcal, p = 0.59). No differences in satiety feelings were observed. Intestinal infusion of tastants using a naso-duodenal-ileal catheter did not influence food intake or satiety feelings. Possibly, the burden of the four-day naso-duodenal-ileal intubation masked a small effect that tastants might have on food intake and satiety.
Infant Cereals: Current Status, Challenges, and Future Opportunities for Whole Grains
Authors: Klerks Michelle , Bernal Maria Jose , Roman Sergio , Bodenstab Stefan , Gil Angel , Sanchez-Siles Luis Manuel
Published: February 2019

Infant cereals play an important role in the complementary feeding period. The aim of this study was to review existing research about the quantity, type, and degree of infant cereal processing, with a special focus on whole grain infant cereals. Accumulating evidence shows many benefits of whole grain consumption for human health. Likewise, consumers are frequently linking the term whole grains to healthiness and naturality, and sustainable food production becomes a more important aspect when choosing an infant cereal brand. Whole grain cereals should be consumed as early as possible, i.e., during infancy. However, there are several challenges that food manufacturers are facing that need to be addressed. Recommendations are needed for the intake of whole grain cereals for infants and young children, including product-labeling guidelines for whole grain foods targeting these age stages. Another challenge is minimizing the higher contaminant content in whole grains, as well as those formed during processing. Yet, the greatest challenge may be to drive consumers’ acceptance, including taste. The complementary feeding period is absolutely key in shaping the infant’s food preferences and habits; therefore, it is the appropriate stage in life at which to introduce whole grain cereals for the acceptance of whole grains across the entire lifespan.
A Review of the Role of Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) in Antiphotoaging, Stress Resistance, Neuroprotection, and Autophagy
Authors: Prasanth Mani Iyer , Sivamaruthi Bhagavathi Sundaram , Chaiyasut Chaiyavat , Tencomnao Tewin
Published: February 2019

Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages worldwide, and is available in various forms. Green tea is richer in antioxidants compared to other forms of tea. Tea is composed of polyphenols, caffeine, minerals, and trace amounts of vitamins, amino acids, and carbohydrates. The composition of the tea varies depending on the fermentation process employed to produce it. The phytochemicals present in green tea are known to stimulate the central nervous system and maintain overall health in humans. Skin aging is a complex process mediated by intrinsic factors such as senescence, along with extrinsic damage induced by external factors such as chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation—A process known as photoaging—Which can lead to erythema, edema, sunburn, hyperplasia, premature aging, and the development of non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancers. UV can cause skin damage either directly, through absorption of energy by biomolecules, or indirectly, by increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). Green tea phytochemicals are a potent source of exogenous antioxidant candidates that could nullify excess endogenous ROS and RNS inside the body, and thereby diminish the impact of photoaging. Several in vivo and in vitro studies suggest that green tea supplementation increases the collagen and elastin fiber content, and suppresses collagen degrading enzyme MMP-3 production in the skin, conferring an anti-wrinkle effect. The precise mechanism behind the anti-photoaging effect of green tea has not been explored yet. Studies using the worm model have suggested that green tea mediated lifespan extension depends on the DAF-16 pathway. Apart from this, green tea has been reported to have stress resistance and neuroprotective properties. Its ROS scavenging activity makes it a potent stress mediator, as it can also regulate the stress induced by metal ions. It is known that tea polyphenols can induce the expression of different antioxidant enzymes and hinder the DNA oxidative damage. Growing evidence suggests that green tea can also be used as a potential agent to mediate neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. EGCG, an abundant catechin in tea, was found to suppress the neurotoxicity induced by Aβ as it activates glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), along with inhibiting c-Abl/FE65—the cytoplasmic nonreceptor tyrosine kinase which is involved in the development of the nervous system and in nuclear translocation. Additionally, green tea polyphenols induce autophagy, thereby revitalizing the overall health of the organism consuming it. Green tea was able to activate autophagy in HL-60 xenographs by increasing the activity of PI3 kinase and BECLIN-1. This manuscript describes the reported anti-photoaging, stress resistance, and neuroprotective and autophagy properties of one of the most widely known functional foods—green tea.
Gender Differences with Dose–Response Relationship between Serum Selenium Levels and Metabolic Syndrome—A Case-Control Study
Authors: Lu Chia-Wen , Chang Hao-Hsiang , Yang Kuen-Cheh , Chiang Chien-Hsieh , Yao Chien-An , Huang Kuo-Chin
Published: February 2019

Few studies have investigated the association between selenium and metabolic syndrome. This study aimed to explore the associations between the serum selenium level and metabolic syndrome as well as examining each metabolic factor. In this case-control study, the participants were 1165 adults aged ≥40 (65.8 ± 10.0) years. Serum selenium was measured by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The associations between serum selenium and metabolic syndrome were examined by multivariate logistic regression analyses. The least square means were computed by general linear models to compare the serum selenium levels in relation to the number of metabolic factors. The mean serum selenium concentration was 96.34 ± 25.90 μg/L, and it was positively correlated with waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, fasting glucose, and homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in women, but it was only correlated with fasting glucose and HOMA-IR in men. After adjustment, the odds ratios (ORs) of having metabolic syndrome increased with the selenium quartile groups (p for trend: <0.05), especially in women. The study demonstrated that the serum selenium levels were positively associated with metabolic syndrome following a non-linear dose–response trend. Selenium concentration was positively associated with insulin resistance in men and women, but it was associated with adiposity and lipid metabolism in women. The mechanism behind this warrants further confirmation.