bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Muscle Hypertrophy and Architectural Changes in Response to Eight-Week Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Training in Healthy Older People
Authors: Jandova Tereza , Narici Marco , Steffl Michal , Bondi Danilo , D’Amico Moreno , Pavlu Dagmar , Verratti Vittore , Fulle Stefania , Pietrangelo Tiziana
Published: September 2020

Loss of muscle mass of the lower limbs and of the spine extensors markedly impairs locomotor ability and spine stability in old age. In this study, we investigated whether 8 w of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) improves size and architecture of the lumbar multifidus (LM) and vastus lateralis (VL) along with locomotor ability in healthy older individuals. Eight volunteers (aged 65 ≥ years) performed NMES 3 times/week. Eight sex- and age-matched individuals served as controls. Functional tests (Timed Up and Go test (TUG) and Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (FTSST)), VL muscle architecture (muscle thickness (MT), pennation angle (PA), and fiber length (FL)), along with VL cross-sectional area (CSA) and both sides of LM were measured before and after by ultrasound. By the end of the training period, MT and CSA of VL increased by 8.6% and 11.4%, respectively. No significant increases were observed in FL and PA. LM CSA increased by 5.6% (left) and 7.1% (right). Interestingly, all VL architectural parameters significantly decreased in the control group. The combined NMES had a large significant effect on TUG (r = 0.50, p = 0.046). These results extend previous findings on the hypertrophic effects of NMES training, suggesting to be a useful mean for combating age-related sarcopenia.
Effect of Low Atmospheric Pressure on Air Entrainment in Cement-Based Materials: An On-Site Experimental Study at Different Elevations
Authors: Chen Xin , Liu Xu , Tian Bo , Ge Yong , Li Lihui
Published: September 2020

The efficiency and stability of air entrainment in concrete are sometimes found to be weaker at higher elevation. This phenomenon was attributed to the low atmospheric pressure by many researchers, however, the level of influence of atmospheric pressure on concrete air content dramatically varied among different studies. In order to clarify the effect of low atmospheric pressure on air entrainment in cement-based materials, an on-site experimental study was conducted with a rigorous control of irrelevant variables. The study focused on the air-entraining efficiency in cement paste, mortar, and concrete prepared in both low and standard atmospheric pressures. The air bubble stability in fresh mortar and air void characteristics of hardened mortar in different atmospheric pressures were also included. In the study, little effect of low atmospheric pressure on the air-entraining efficiency and air bubble stability in mortar with studied air-entraining agents (AEAs) was found. The air void characteristics were found to be similar between mortar with SJ-2 or 303R type AEAs prepared in different atmospheric pressures. Concrete with either SJ-2 or 303R type AEA prepared in low atmospheric pressure presented a satisfactory air content. These conclusions indicate that it is not necessary to worry excessively about the potentially adverse effect of atmospheric pressure on the frost resistance of concrete if a suitable AEA is applied. Additionally, a supplementary mortar study found that the low temperature of raw materials stored at high elevation would significantly weaken the air entrainment, reminding that potential causes in addition to low atmospheric pressure should also be taken seriously.
Modeling of Motion Characteristics and Performance Analysis of an Ultra-Precision Piezoelectric Inchworm Motor
Authors: Zhao Bo , Fang Ri , Shi Weijia
Published: September 2020

Ultra-precision piezoelectric inchworm motor (PIM) is widely used in the optical equipment, microelectronics semiconductor industry and precision manufacturing for motion and positioning, but the multi-physics field simulation model for estimating PIM performance and assisting motor design is rarely studied. The simulation model in this paper aimed to provide researchers with direct and convenient PIM performance evaluation to assist the motor design and development. According to the existing advanced inchworm motor products, a multi-physics field coupling model involving solid mechanics and electrostatics using the finite element method (FEM) was established. The motion gesture and performance (driving force and travel) of the PIM were analyzed, respectively. The simulation results showed that the motion gesture of the inchworm motor was well consistent with that of the actual motor product. The driving force from the simulation was close to that of the actual product, and the maximum error was 2.8%. As for the PIM travel, there was a maximum travel error of 0.6 μm between the simulation and official data. The performance parameters of the piezoelectric materials under certain specifications can be simulated by the multi-physics field coupling model. Therefore, the multi-physics field coupling simulation model is suitable for PIM performance evaluation and assisting motor development.
Cryptobiometrics for the Generation of Cancellable Symmetric and Asymmetric Ciphers with Perfect Secrecy
Authors: Jara-Vera Vicente , Sánchez-Ávila Carmen
Published: September 2020

Security objectives are the triad of confidentiality, integrity, and authentication, which may be extended with availability, utility, and control. In order to achieve these goals, cryptobiometrics is essential. It is desirable that a number of characteristics are further met, such as cancellation, irrevocability, unlinkability, irreversibility, variability, reliability, and biometric bit-length. To this end, we designed a cryptobiometrics system featuring the above-mentioned characteristics, in order to generate cryptographic keys and the rest of the elements of cryptographic schemes—both symmetric and asymmetric—from a biometric pattern or template, no matter the origin (i.e., face, fingerprint, voice, gait, behaviour, and so on). This system uses perfect substitution and transposition encryption, showing that there exist two systems with these features, not just one (i.e., the Vernam substitution cipher). We offer a practical application using voice biometrics by means of the Welch periodogram, in which we achieved the remarkable result of an equal error rate of (0.0631, 0.9361). Furthermore, by means of a constructed template, we were able to generate the prime value which specifies the elliptic curve describing all other data of the cryptographic scheme, including the private and public key, as well as the symmetric AES key shared between the templates of two users.
Poly[3-ethyl-1-vinyl-imidazolium] diethyl phosphate/Pebax® 1657 Composite Membranes and Their Gas Separation Performance
Authors: Mazzei Irene R. , Nikolaeva Daria , Fuoco Alessio , Loïs Sandrine , Fantini Sébastien , Monteleone Marcello , Esposito Elisa , Ashtiani Saeed Jamali , Lanč Marek , Vopička Ondřej , Friess Karel , Vankelecom Ivo F. J. , Jansen Johannes Carolus
Published: September 2020

Poly(ionic liquid)s are an innovative class of materials with promising properties in gas separation processes that can be used to boost the neat polymer performances. Nevertheless, some of their properties such as stability and mechanical strength have to be improved to render them suitable as materials for industrial applications. This work explored, on the one hand, the possibility to improve gas transport and separation properties of the block copolymer Pebax® 1657 by blending it with poly[3-ethyl-1-vinyl-imidazolium] diethyl phosphate (PEVI-DEP). On the other hand, Pebax® 1657 served as a support for the PIL and provided mechanical resistance to the samples. Pebax® 1657/PEVI-DEP composite membranes containing 20, 40, and 60 wt.% of PEVI-DEP were cast from solutions of the right proportion of the two polymers in a water/ethanol mixture. The PEVI-DEP content affected both the morphology of the dense membranes and gas transport through the membranes. These changes were revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), time-lag, and gravimetric sorption measurements. Pebax® 1657 and PEVI-DEP showed similar affinity towards CO2, and its uptake or solubility was not influenced by the amount of PIL in the membrane. Therefore, the addition of the PIL did not lead to improvements in the separation of CO2 from other gases. Importantly, PEVI-DEP (40 wt.%) incorporation affected and improved permeability and selectivity by more than 50% especially for the separation of light gases, e.g., H2/CH4 and H2/CO2, but higher PEVI-DEP concentrations lead to a decline in the transport properties.
Recent Advances in Very High Cycle Fatigue Behavior of Metals and Alloys—A Review
Authors: Sharma Ashutosh , Oh Min Chul , Ahn Byungmin
Published: September 2020

We reviewed the research and developments in the field of fatigue failure, focusing on very-high cycle fatigue (VHCF) of metals, alloys, and steels. We also discussed ultrasonic fatigue testing, historical relevance, major testing principles, and equipment. The VHCF behavior of Al, Mg, Ni, Ti, and various types of steels were analyzed. Furthermore, we highlighted the major defects, crack initiation sites, fatigue models, and simulation studies to understand the crack development in VHCF regimes. Finally, we reviewed the details regarding various issues and challenges in the field of VHCF for engineering metals and identified future directions in this area.
The Influence of Specimen Geometry and Strain Rate on the Portevin-Le Chatelier Effect and Fracture in an Austenitic FeMnC TWIP Steel
Authors: Kang Jidong , Shi Liting , Liang Jie , Shalchi-Amirkhiz Babak , Scott Colin
Published: September 2020

We studied the Portevin-Le Chatelier effect and fracture behavior of a FeMnC TWIP steel using high speed digital image correlation by varying the specimen geometry (flat vs. round) and test strain rate (0.001 vs. 0.1 s−1). The results show that the mean flow stress, the mean strain hardening rate and the mean strain rate sensitivity parameters are all independent of the specimen geometry and are uncorrelated with the presence or not of Portevin-Le Chatelier (PLC) bands, the type of PLC bands observed or the critical strain for band formation. However, both the fracture strains and stresses and the PLC behavior are highly geometry and/or strain rate dependent. Dynamic strain aging (DSA) and in particular the presence of PLC instabilities appears to play an important but as yet unclear role in promoting premature necking and final fracture.
Achievements of Nearly Zero Earing Defects on SPCC Cylindrical Drawn Cup Using Multi Draw Radius Die
Authors: Jankree Rudeemas , Thipprakmas Sutasn
Published: September 2020

In recent years, the old-fashioned cylindrical cup shapes are still widely used, and there are many defects which could not be solved yet. In the present research, the classical earing defects, which are mainly caused by the material mechanical property of the anisotropic property of the material (R-value), are focused on. The multi draw radius (MDR) deep drawing die is applied and investigated to achieve nearly zero earing defects by encountering the R-value during the deep drawing process. Based on the experiments, in different directions in the sheet plane, the somewhat concurrent plastic deformation could be controlled, and the uniform elongated grain microstructure and uniform strain distributions on the cup wall could be achieved. Therefore, on the basis of these characteristics, the earing defects could be prevented, and the nearly zero earing defects could be achieved. However, to achieve the nearly zero earing defects, the suitable MDR die design relating to the R-value should be strictly considered. In the present research, to apply the MDR die for the medium carbon steel sheet grade SPCC cylindrical drawn cup, the following was recommended: the large draw radius positioned at 45° to the rolling direction and the small draw radius positioned along the plane and at 90° to the rolling direction. Therefore, in the present research, it was originally revealed that the nearly zero earing defects could be successfully performed on the process by using the MDR die application.
Effect of Sample Storage Conditions on Measurements of Salivary Cotinine Levels
Authors: Leite Fábio Renato Manzolli , Baelum Vibeke , Pajaniaye Julie Becker , Abildtrup Lisbeth Ann , López Rodrigo
Published: September 2020

Information on smoking exposure obtained with self-reports may be inaccurate. Cotinine has a large half-life and its salivary levels correlate well with plasmatic levels. The influence of storage conditions on the validity and precision of salivary cotinine assessments has rarely been evaluated. Here, smokers donated saliva samples, which were sent for immediate analysis, mail posting, storage at 4 °C for 30 or 90 days, or storage at −20 °C for 30 or 90 days. Cotinine levels were determined using enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay. Agreement of cotinine level measurements was assessed using Bland-Altman analyses. Average age (years), duration of smoking (years) and number of cigarettes smoked (/day) were 55.4 (±SD 9.4), 35.1 (±SD 11.3), and 15.3 (±SD 7.6). The mean immediate cotinine level was 457 ng/mL (range 11.3 to 1318 ng/mL). Mean cotinine levels in samples analyzed after delay ranged between 433 ng/mL (−20 °C 30 days) and 468 ng/mL (4 °C 30 days). A dose-response gradient was observed in the relationship between salivary cotinine level and self-reported smoking status. A good agreement between cotinine levels for all storage conditions compared with immediate analysis was observed, with average differences ranging from −11 to 24 ng/mL. Cotinine levels remained stable regardless of the tested condition. The stability of salivary cotinine may enable samples to be obtained in difficult-to-reach areas, reduce study costs, and improve the validity of the information on exposure to smoking.
Developmental, Dietary, and Geographical Impacts on Gut Microbiota of Red Swamp Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)
Authors: Zhang Zhenting , Liu Jiali , Jin Xuexia , Liu Chao , Fan Chenwei , Guo Li , Liang Yunxiang , Zheng Jinshui , Peng Nan
Published: September 2020

Red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) breeding is an important economic mainstay in Hubei province, China. However, information on the gut microbiota of the red swamp crayfish is limited. To address this issue, the effect of developmental stage, diet (fermented or non-fermented feed), and geographical location on the gut microbiota composition in the crayfish was studied via high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results revealed that the dominant phyla in the gut of the crayfish were Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes,Firmicutes, Tenericutes, and RsaHF231. The alpha diversity showed a declining trend during development, and a highly comparable gut microbiota clustering was identified in a development-dependent manner. The results also revealed that development, followed by diet, is a better key driver for crayfish gut microbiota patterns than geographical location. Notably, the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes was significantly higher in the gut of the crayfish fed with fermented feed than those fed with non-fermented feed, suggesting the fermented feed can be important for the functions (e.g., polysaccharide degradation) of the gut microbiota. In summary, our results revealed the factors shaping gut microbiota of the crayfish and the importance of the fermented feed in crayfish breeding.
Mechanism of Depression by Fe3+ During Hemimorphite Flotation
Authors: Liu Junbo , Wen Shuming , Feng Qicheng , Zhang Qian , Wang Yijie , Zhou Yaowen , Nie Wenlin
Published: September 2020

Sulfide hemimorphite can be depressed by Fe3+ during flotation. In this study, the depression mechanism was studied by microflotation, inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry, local electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (LEIS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Flotation test results suggested that sulfated hemimorphite can be depressed by Fe3+ across the entire pH range. LEIS, adsorption analysis, and XPS indicated that S species were adsorbed on hemimorphite as ZnS. The sulfide film was attenuated and no adsorbed Fe species were found after treatment with Fe3+. The results indicate that Fe3+ reacts with the ZnS film, which decreases the number S species, and this leads to hemimorphite depression.
Indium and Antimony Distribution in a Sphalerite from the “Burgstaetter Gangzug” of the Upper Harz Mountains Pb-Zn Mineralization
Authors: Schirmer Thomas , Ließmann Wilfried , Macauley Chandra , Felfer Peter
Published: September 2020

The sphalerite from the Burgstaetter Gangzug, a vein system of the Upper Harz Mountain nearby the town of Clausthal-Zellerfeld, exhibits a very interesting and partly complementary incorporation pattern of Cu, In and Sb, which has not yet been reported for natural sphalerite. A sphalerite specimen was characterized with electron probe micro-analysis (EPMA) and atom probe tomography (APT). Based on the EPMA results and a multilinear regression, a relation expressed as Cu = 0.98In + 1.81Sb + 0.03 can be calculated to describe the correlation between the elements. This indicates, that the incorporation mechanisms of In and Sb in the structure differ substantially. Indium is incorporated with the ratio Cu:In = 1:1 like in roquesite (CuInS2), supporting the coupled substitution mechanism 2Zn2+ → Cu+ + In3+. In contrast, Sb is incorporated with a ratio of Cu:Sb = 1.81:1. APT, which has a much higher spatial resolution indicates a ratio of Cu: Sb = 2.28: 1 in the entire captured volume, which is similar to the ratio calculated by EPMA, yet with inhomogeneities at the nanometer-scale. Analysis of the solute distribution shows two distinct sizes of clusters that are rich in Cu, Sb and Ag.
Hydrogeochemical Study on Closed-Basin Lakes in Cold and Semi-Arid Climates of the Valley of the Gobi Lakes, Mongolia: Implications for Hydrology and Water Chemistry of Paleolakes on Mars
Authors: Sekine Yasuhito , Kitajima Takuma , Fukushi Keisuke , Gankhurel Baasansuren , Tsetsgee Solongo , Davaasuren Davaadorj , Matsumiya Haruna , Chida Takufumi , Nakamura Maya , Hasebe Noriko
Published: September 2020

Previous studies suggested that, generally, the climate of early Mars would have been semi-arid when the surface temperatures were above freezing. On early Mars, closed-basin lakes would have been created; however, the hydrogeochemical cycles of the lake systems are poorly constrained. Here we report results of our field surveys to terrestrial analogs of closed-basin lake systems that developed in cold and semi-arid climates: The Valley of the Gobi Lakes of Mongolia. Our results show that groundwater plays a central role not only in hydrology, but also in geochemical cycles in the lake systems. We find that groundwater predominantly flows into the lakes through local seepage and regional flows in semi-arid climates. Through the interactions with calcite-containing soils, local groundwater seepage provides Ca2+ and HCO3− to the lakes. In the wetland located in between the lakes, high-salinity shallow pools would provide Cl− and Na+ to the groundwater through infiltration. If similar processes occurred on early Mars, local seepage of groundwater would have provided magnesium and alkalinity to the early Jezero lakes, possibly leading to authigenic precipitation of lacustrine carbonates. On early Mars, infiltration of surface brine may have transported salts and oxidants on the surface to lakes via regional groundwater flows. We suggest that inflows of multiple types of groundwater in semi-arid climates could have caused redox disequilibria in closed-basin lakes on early Mars.
Surface Oxidation of Nano-Silicon as a Method for Cycle Life Enhancement of Li-ion Active Materials
Authors: Ratynski Maciej , Hamankiewicz Bartosz , Buchberger Dominika A. , Czerwinski Andrzej
Published: September 2020

Among the many studied Li-ion active materials, silicon presents the highest specific capacity, however it suffers from a great volume change during lithiation. In this work, we present two methods for the chemical modification of silicon nanoparticles. Both methods change the materials’ electrochemical characteristics. The combined XPS and SEM results show that the properties of the generated silicon oxide layer depend on the modification procedure employed. Electrochemical characterization reveals that the formed oxide layers show different susceptibility to electro-reduction during the first lithiation. The single step oxidation procedure resulted in a thin and very stable oxide that acts as an artificial SEI layer during electrode operation. The removal of the native oxide prior to further reactions resulted in a very thick oxide layer formation. The created oxide layers (both thin and thick) greatly suppress the effect of silicon volume changes, which significantly reduces electrode degradation during cycling. Both modification techniques are relatively straightforward and scalable to an industrial level. The proposed modified materials reveal great applicability prospects in next generation Li-ion batteries due to their high specific capacity and remarkable cycling stability.
Nanoparticles for Cerenkov and Radioluminescent Light Enhancement for Imaging and Radiotherapy
Authors: Boschi Federico , Spinelli Antonello Enrico
Published: September 2020

Cerenkov luminescence imaging and Cerenkov photodynamic therapy have been developed in recent years to exploit the Cerenkov radiation (CR) generated by radioisotopes, frequently used in Nuclear Medicine, to diagnose and fight cancer lesions. For in vivo detection, the endpoint energy of the radioisotope and, thus, the total number of the emitted Cerenkov photons, represents a very important variable and explains why, for example, 68Ga is better than 18F. However, it was also found that the scintillation process is an important mechanism for light production. Nanotechnology represents the most important field, providing nanosctructures which are able to shift the UV-blue emission into a more suitable wavelength, with reduced absorption, which is useful especially for in vivo imaging and therapy applications. Nanoparticles can be made, loaded or linked to fluorescent dyes to modify the optical properties of CR radiation. They also represent a useful platform for therapeutic agents, such as photosensitizer drugs for the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Generally, NPs can be spaced by CR sources; however, for in vivo imaging applications, NPs bound to or incorporating radioisotopes are the most interesting nanocomplexes thanks to their high degree of mutual colocalization and the reduced problem of false uptake detection. Moreover, the distance between the NPs and CR source is crucial for energy conversion. Here, we review the principal NPs proposed in the literature, discussing their properties and the main results obtained by the proponent experimental groups.
Relationship between Structural Characteristics of Cellulose Nanocrystals Obtained from Kraft Pulp
Authors: Aguayo María Graciela , Fernández-Pérez Arturo , Oviedo Claudia , Reyes Guillermo , Reyes-Contreras Pablo
Published: September 2020

Kraft pulp cellulose was hydrolyzed using sulfuric acid, under different thermophysical conditions of temperature, time, pulp concentration, and sonication time. The experimental design revealed the effect of these conditions and their interaction on the hydrolysis yield obtained. In addition, the top five cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) yields from this experiment design were analyzed. The results obtained indicated that CNCs possess a morphology that can be described as individualized rod particles, with average diameters less than 50 nm and different size distribution. In the analysis of CNCs features, significant Pearson correlations were established between the crystallinity of the CNC, CNC yield, and interplanar crystallites distance (Δd/d). The thermogravimetric (DTG) profiles exhibited two CNCs degradation stages, where the second stage CNCs degradation showed a significative correlation with CNC sulfur content. In our analysis, the crystallographic parameters exhibited a correlation with the mechanical behavior of the CNC, since the potential variation between the distances of the crystalline planes is related to the stress and deformation present in the crystallites of CNCs. This study provides new knowledge regarding CNCs, further enhancing information for CNC-based industries and the processability of CNCs for the development of new materials.
Effects of Dietary Nitrates on Time Trial Performance in Athletes with Different Training Status: Systematic Review
Authors: Hlinský Tomáš , Kumstát Michal , Vajda Petr
Published: September 2020

Much research has been done in sports nutrition in recent years as the demand for performance-enhancing substances increases. Higher intake of nitrates from the diet can increase the bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO) via the nitrate–nitrite–NO pathway. Nevertheless, the increased availability of NO does not always lead to improved performance in some individuals. This review aims to evaluate the relationship between the athlete’s training status and the change in time trial performance after increased dietary nitrate intake. Articles indexed by Scopus and PubMed published from 2015 to 2019 were reviewed. Thirteen articles met the eligibility criteria: clinical trial studies on healthy participants with different training status (according to VO2max), conducting time trial tests after dietary nitrate supplementation. The PRISMA guidelines were followed to process the review. We found a statistically significant relationship between VO2max and ergogenicity in time trial performance using one-way ANOVA (p = 0.001) in less-trained athletes (VO2 < 55 mL/kg/min). A strong positive correlation was observed in experimental situations using a chronic supplementation protocol but not in acute protocol situations. In the context of our results and recent histological observations of muscle fibres, there might be a fibre-type specific role in nitric oxide production and, therefore, supplement of ergogenicity.
Adipose Tissue Development and Expansion from the Womb to Adolescence: An Overview
Authors: Orsso Camila E. , Colin-Ramirez Eloisa , Field Catherine J. , Madsen Karen L. , Prado Carla M. , Haqq Andrea M.
Published: September 2020

Prevalence rates of pediatric obesity continue to rise worldwide. Adipose tissue (AT) development and expansion initiate in the fetus and extend throughout the lifespan. This paper presents an overview of the AT developmental trajectories from the intrauterine period to adolescence; factors determining adiposity expansion are also discussed. The greatest fetal increases in AT were observed in the third pregnancy trimester, with growing evidence suggesting that maternal health and nutrition, toxin exposure, and genetic defects impact AT development. From birth up to six months, healthy term newborns experience steep increases in AT; but a subsequent reduction in AT is observed during infancy. Important determinants of AT in infancy identified in this review included feeding practices and factors shaping the gut microbiome. Low AT accrual rates are maintained up to puberty onset, at which time, the pattern of adiposity expansion becomes sex dependent. As girls experience rapid increases and boys experience decreases in AT, sexual dimorphism in hormone secretion can be considered the main contributor for changes. Eating patterns/behaviors and interactions between dietary components, gut microbiome, and immune cells also influence AT expansion. Despite the plasticity of this tissue, substantial evidence supports that adiposity at birth and infancy highly influences its levels across subsequent life stages. Thus, a unique window of opportunity for the prevention and/or slowing down of the predisposition toward obesity, exists from pregnancy through childhood.
Updates in Hypertension Studies According to the Main Clinical Trials: A Review of the Past 45 Years about Pharmaceutical Intervention Effects
Authors: Martínez-Linares Jose Manuel
Published: September 2020

Background: High blood pressure remains one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Although there is no consensus, all the clinical practice guidelines agree on the need to reduce blood pressure levels to minimize the risks. There are many clinical trials conducted to try to find the best pharmacotherapy to achieve this goal. The aim was to compare the main international randomized clinical trials on hypertension in people older than 50 years. Methods: Literature qualitative review of randomized clinical trials selected from PubMed and UpToDate in people older than 50 years, from 1985 until 2020. The clinical trials conducted during this period show variability in the drugs used, the inclusion criteria for blood pressure figures, and the consideration or not of other vascular risk factors (smoking, obesity, lipid disorders, diabetes, and physical inactivity). Results: Of the 8334 articles found, 19 of them fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria that involved 202,638 people. The main findings of each investigation were grouped as follows: incidence of non-cardiovascular death, death of cardiovascular origin, coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, renal failure, and hypertensive retinopathy. In all patients, blood pressure figures were reduced, although this did not always lead to statistically significant differences in morbidity and/or mortality risk reduction. Twelve of them found risk reduction as an effect of reduced blood pressure. Conclusions: Randomized clinical trials conducted on hypertension in people older than 50 years of age show variability in the inclusion criteria. Variability in the antihypertensive drugs used was observed in this population. Blood pressure figures were reduced in all cases, although without statistically significant differences in morbidity and/or mortality risk reduction.
Nursing Surge Capacity Strategies for Management of Critically Ill Adults with COVID-19
Authors: Al Mutair Abbas , Amr Anas , Ambani Zainab , Salman Khulud Al , Schwebius Deborah
Published: September 2020

Background: There is a vital need to develop strategies to improve nursing surge capacity for caring of patients with coronavirus (COVID-19) in critical care settings. COVID-19 has spread rapidly, affecting thousands of patients and hundreds of territories. Hospitals, through anticipation and planning, can serve patients and staff by developing strategies to cope with the complications that a surge of COVID-19 places on the provision of adequate intensive care unit (ICU) nursing staff—both in numbers and in training. Aims: The aim is to provide an evidence-based starting point from which to build expanding staffing models dealing with these additional demands. Design/Method: In order to address and develop nursing surge capacity strategies, a five-member expert panel was formed. Multiple questions directed towards nursing surge capacity strategies were posed by the assembled expert panel. Literature review was conducted through accessing various databases including MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, and EMBASE. All studies were appraised by at least two reviewers independently using the Joanna Briggs Institute JBI Critical Appraisal Tools. Results: The expert panel has issued strategies and recommendation statements. These proposals, supported by evidence-based resources in regard to nursing staff augmentation strategies, have had prior success when implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: The proposed guidelines are intended to provide a basis for the provision of best practice nursing care during times of diminished intensive care unit (ICU) nursing staff capacity and resources due to a surge in critically ill patients. The recommendations and strategies issued are intended to specifically support critical care nurses incorporating COVID-19 patients. As new knowledge evidence becomes available, updates can be issued and strategies, guidelines and/or policies revised. Relevance to Clinical Practice: Through discussion and condensing research, healthcare professionals can create a starting point from which to synergistically develop strategies to combat crises that a pandemic like COVID-19 produces.
Acute and Chronic Dosing of a High-Affinity Rat/Mouse Chimeric Transferrin Receptor Antibody in Mice
Authors: Castellanos Demi M. , Sun Jiahong , Yang Joshua , Ou Weijun , Zambon Alexander C. , Pardridge William M. , Sumbria Rachita K.
Published: September 2020

Non-invasive brain delivery of neurotherapeutics is challenging due to the blood-brain barrier. The revived interest in transferrin receptor antibodies (TfRMAbs) as brain drug-delivery vectors has revealed the effect of dosing regimen, valency, and affinity on brain uptake, TfR expression, and Fc-effector function side effects. These studies have primarily used monovalent TfRMAbs with a human constant region following acute intravenous dosing in mice. The effects of a high-affinity bivalent TfRMAb with a murine constant region, without a fusion partner, following extravascular dosing in mice are, however, not well characterized. Here we elucidate the plasma pharmacokinetics and safety of a high-affinity bivalent TfRMAb with a murine constant region following acute and chronic subcutaneous dosing in adult C57BL/6J male mice. Mice received a single (acute dosing) 3 mg/kg dose, or were treated for four weeks (chronic dosing). TfRMAb and control IgG1 significantly altered reticulocyte counts following acute and chronic dosing, while other hematologic parameters showed minimal change. Chronic TfRMAb dosing did not alter plasma- and brain-iron measurements, nor brain TfR levels, however, it significantly increased splenic-TfR and -iron. Plasma concentrations of TfRMAb were significantly lower in mice chronically treated with IgG1 or TfRMAb. Overall, no injection related reactions were observed in mice.
A Narrow Endemic or a Species Showing Disjunct Distribution? Studies on Meehania montis-koyae Ohwi (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Takano Atsuko , Sakaguchi Shota , Li Pan , Matsuo Ayumi , Suyama Yoshihisa , Xia Guo-Hua , Liu Xi , Isagi Yuji
Published: September 2020

Meehania montis-koyae Ohwi (Lamiaceae), which has been considered a narrow endemic and endangered species in Japan, was found in eastern China in 2011. China and Japan belong to the same floristic region and share many plant species, but it is very rare that Japanese narrow endemic species are newly found outside of the country. We examined herbarium specimens of both countries, and conducted analyses of molecular phylogenetics, population genetics, and divergence time estimation using two nuclear (ITS and ETS) gene regions and MIG-seq data. Chinese plants tend to become larger than Japanese, and they are different in leaf shape and floral features. Molecular phylogenetic analysis shows Chinese and Japanese M. montis-koyae are the closest relatives to each other. Population genetic analysis indicates no current gene flow between the Chinese and Japanese populations, and divergence time analysis shows they were separated during the late Miocene. We reach the conclusion that Chinese and Japanese M. montis-koyae have already become distinct biological entities, and a new taxon name Meehania zheminensis A. Takano, Pan Li, G.-H.Xia is proposed for the Chinese plants. A key to Asian Meehania species is provided.
Integrating Multiple Lines of Evidence to Explore Intraspecific Variability in a Rare Endemic Alpine Plant and Implications for Its Conservation
Authors: Adamo Martino , Mammola Stefano , Noble Virgile , Mucciarelli Marco
Published: September 2020

We studied the ecology, distribution, and phylogeography of Tephroseris balbisiana, a rare plant whose range is centered to the South-Western Alps. Our aim was to assess the extent of intraspecific variability within the nominal species and the conservation status of isolated populations. We studied genetic diversity across the whole species range. We analyzed leaf traits, which are distinctive morphological characters within the Tephroseris genus. A clear pattern of genetic variation was found among populations of T. balbisiana, which clustered according to their geographic position. On the contrary, there was a strong overlap in the morphological space of individuals across the species’ range, with few peripheral populations diverging in their leaf morphology. Studying habitat suitability by means of species distribution models, we observed that T. balbisiana range is primarily explained by solar radiation and precipitation seasonality. Environmental requirements could explain the genetic and morphological uniformity of T. balbisiana in its core distribution area and justify genetic, morphological, and ecological divergences found among the isolated populations of the Apennines. Our findings emphasize the need to account for the whole diversity of a species, comprising peripheral populations, in order to better estimate its status and to prioritize areas for its conservation.
Microencapsulation of Copper(II) Sulfate in Ionically Cross-Linked Chitosan by Spray Drying for the Development of Irreversible Moisture Indicators in Paper Packaging
Authors: Rojas-Lema Sandra , Terol Jorge , Fages Eduardo , Balart Rafael , Quiles-Carrillo Luis , Prieto Cristina , Torres-Giner Sergio
Published: September 2020

Copper(II) sulfate-loaded chitosan microparticles were herein prepared using ionic cross-linking with sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) followed by spray drying. The microencapsulation process was optimal using an inlet temperature of 180 °C, a liquid flow-rate of 290 mL/h, an aspiration rate of 90%, and an atomizing gas flow-rate of 667 nL/h. Chitosan particles containing copper(II) sulfate of approximately 4 µm with a shrunken-type morphology were efficiently attained and, thereafter, fixated on a paper substrate either via cross-linking with STPP or using a chitosan hydrogel. The latter method led to the most promising system since it was performed at milder conditions and the original paper quality was preserved. The developed cellulose substrates were reduced and then exposed to different humidity conditions and characterized using colorimetric measurements in order to ascertain their potential as irreversible indicators for moisture detection. The results showed that the papers coated with the copper(II) sulfate-containing chitosan microparticles were successfully able to detect ambient moisture shown by the color changes of the coatings from dark brown to blue, which can be easily seen with the naked eye. Furthermore, the chitosan microparticles yielded no cytotoxicity in an in vitro cell culture experiment. Therefore, the cellulose substrates herein developed hold great promise in paper packaging as on-package colorimetric indicators for monitoring moisture in real time.
Experimental Studies and Modeling of the Degradation Process of Poly(Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) Microspheres for Sustained Protein Release
Authors: Netti Paolo Antonio , Biondi Marco , Frigione Mariaenrica
Published: September 2020

In this study, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres (PLGA MS)for controlled protein release by double emulsion-solvent evaporation were produced and characterized for their morphological and technological features. MS autocatalytic degradation was described by a mathematical model based on a Michaelis and Menten-like chemical balance. Here, for the first time MS degradation was correlated to the advancement of MS degradation front with respect to the degraded radius, derived from mass loss experiments. The model can satisfactorily describe the kinetics of advancement of the degradation front experimentally derived for all MS formulations, especially when produced at higher PLGA concentrations.
High-Barrier Polyimide Containing Carbazole Moiety: Synthesis, Gas Barrier Properties, and Molecular Simulations
Authors: Liu Yiwu , Tang Ao , Tan Jinghua , Zhao Xianqing , Chen Chengliang , Wu Ding , Li Yuhui , He Pan , Zhang Hailiang
Published: September 2020

A high-barrier polyimide (2,7-CPI) was synthesized through the polymerization of pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) and a novel diamine (2,7-CDA) containing carbazole moiety. The synthesized diamine and polyimide were fully characterized by elemental analyses, FTIR and NMR. The 2,7-CPI displays very attractive barrier performances, with oxygen transmission rate (OTR) and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) low to 0.14 cm3·m−2·day−1 and 0.05 g·m−2·day−1, respectively. Meanwhile, 2,7-CPI also exhibits exceptional thermal stability with a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 467 °C, 5% weight-loss temperature (Td5%) of 550 °C under N2 and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of 3.4 ppm/K. The barrier performances of 2,7-CPI are compared with those of a structural analogue (2,7-CPPI) and a typical polyimide (Kapton). Their barrier performances with respect to microstructure were investigated by molecular simulations, wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). The results show that 2,7-CPI possesses better coplanar structure and more number of intermolecular hydrogen bonds among the three PIs, which result in tight chain packing and thereby high crystallinity, low free volume, and decreased chains mobility. That is, the high crystallinity and low free volume of 2,7-CPI reduce the diffusion and solubility of gases. Meanwhile, the poor chains mobility further decreases the gases diffusion. The reduced diffusion and solubility of gases consequently promote the improvement of barrier properties for 2,7-CPI. The polyimide has a wide application prospect in the field of flexible electronic packaging industries.
The Effect of Different Extraction Conditions on the Physical Properties, Conformation and Branching of Pectins Extracted from Cucumis melo Inodorus
Authors: Reynolds Danielle C. , Denman Laura J. , Binhamad Hana A. S. , Morris Gordon A.
Published: September 2020

The extraction of pectin involves the physico-chemical hydrolysis and solubilisation of pectic polymers from plant tissues under the influence of several processing parameters. In this study, an experimental design approach was used to examine the effects of extraction pH, time and temperature on the pectins extracted from Cucumis melo Inodorus. Knowledge of physical properties (intrinsic viscosity and molar mass), dilute solution conformation (persistence length and mass per unit length), together with chemical composition, was then used to propose a new method, which can estimate the length and number of branches on the pectin RG-I region. The results show that physical properties, conformation and the length and number of branches are sensitive to extraction conditions. The fitting of regression equations relating length and number of branches on the pectin RG-I region to extraction conditions can, therefore, lead to tailor-made pectins with specific properties for specific applications.
The Garden Candytuft (Iberis umbellata L.): At the Crossroad of Copper Accumulation and Glucosinolates
Authors: Mužek Mario Nikola , Omanović Dario , Đulović Azra , Burčul Franko , Svilović Sandra , Blažević Ivica
Published: September 2020

The copper accumulation ability and its impact on the glucosinolate content of the garden candytuft were studied. Different copper sources (adsorbents or solution) were used. Generally, the seedlings copper uptake from the adsorbents was in the amount needed for its growth and development with the beneficial or no impact on the glucosinolate content. The lowest copper concentration was detected in the total seedlings biomass which grew in the humus with the addition of Cu-exchanged zeolite NaX (27.88 μg g−1 DW) having glucosinolate content of 9757.81 µg g−1 DW (23.86 µmol g−1 DW). The highest copper concentration among all the garden candytuft samples was detected in the seedlings watered with CuSO4∙5H2O solution (514.63 μg g−1 DW) with a sharp decrease of the glucosinolate content 3103.33 µg g−1 DW (7.59 µmol g−1 DW). Based on the results obtained, the garden candytuft can be considered as a copper accumulator plant.
Ritualizing Pregnancy and Childbirth in Secular Societies: Exploring Embodied Spirituality at the Start of Life
Authors: Wojtkowiak Joanna
Published: September 2020

Birth is the beginning of a new life and therefore a unique life event. In this paper, I want to study birth as a fundamental human transition in relation to existential and spiritual questions. Birth takes place within a social and cultural context. A new member of society is entering the community, which also leads to feelings of ambiguity and uncertainty. Rituals are traditionally ways of giving structure to important life events, but in contemporary Western, secular contexts, traditional birth rituals have been decreasing. In this article, I will theoretically explore the meaning of birth from the perspectives of philosophy, religious and ritual studies. New ritual fields will serve as concrete examples. What kind of meanings and notions of spirituality can be discovered in emerging rituals, such as mother’s blessings or humanist naming ceremonies? Ritualizing pregnancy and birth in contemporary, secular society shows that the coming of a new life is related to embodied, social and cultural negotiations of meaning making. More attention is needed in the study of ritualizing pregnancy and birth as they reveal pluralistic spiritualities within secular contexts, as well as deeper cultural issues surrounding these strategies of meaning making.
The Hebrew Bible as Mythic “Vocabulary”: Towards a New Comparative Mythology
Authors: Tobolowsky Andrew
Published: September 2020

In this article, I argue that the history of the study of myth in the Hebrew Bible has been, and continues to be, shaped in negative ways by an essentially Romantic Nationalist understanding of the relationship between a people and their traditions. I then argue that more appropriate ways of modeling the construction of the Bible’s myths, combined with new investigations into the historical development of biblical traditions themselves, reveals a surprising continuity between the myth-making activity of biblical authors and editors and that of all those who retell and adapt biblical traditions in extrabiblical materials. I conclude that the existence of large-scale continuities between the adaptation of biblical traditions in different periods allows for a new kind of comparative investigation. By studying the use of biblical traditions in biblical literature, extrabiblical literature, and art, on approximately equal terms, we can gain new insights about the construction of biblical myths themselves, while connecting the study of the Hebrew Bible far more closely to the study of other bodies of tradition, elsewhere and later on.