bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coefficient of diffusion of tannins in ethanol extracts from Physalis alkekengi L. leaves
Authors: Popova V T , Tasheva S T , Ivanova T A , Stoyanova A S
Published: February 2021

Physalis alkekengi L. (Solanaceae) is a wild growing plant, native to Bulgaria. The plant produces edible fruit rich in phytonutrients; the fruit and the leaves have been used in Bulgarian and other folk medicines for centuries. The leaves of P. alkekengi can be considered as a promising resource for obtaining extracts rich in bioactive ls is performed by molecular diffusion; a generalized indicator of the diffusive properties is the coefficient of diffusion (D). It takes individual values for different plant matrices and depends on various factors in the mass transfer process. To the best of our knowledge, there are no data about the diffusion coefficients of tannins in P. alkekengi leaf extracts, which was set as the objective of the study. Extraction was carried out in a batch static mode, under the following conditions: raw material to solvent ratio of 1:33 (w/v); size of leaf particles – 0.0125 m χ 0.002 m; duration of extraction – 1 h, with the solvent being replaced and analyzed for extracted tannins after each 600 s; solvents – 95%, 70%, 50%, and 30% ethanol; temperature – 20°C, 40°C and 60°C. The values of the coefficient showed variation over time and temperature, for each of the solvents. The highest D value obtained was 0.1690.10-9 m2.s-1 (70% ethanol, 60°C). These are the first data about the coefficient of diffusion of tannins in ethanol extracts from Physalis alkekengi L. leaves.
Correlation between phenotypic characteristics of chemical composition and rennet coagulation of sheep milk
Authors: Kalaydzhiev G I , Balabanova T B , Ivanova M G , Ivanov G Y
Published: February 2021

The aim of the present study was to establish a correlation between phenotypic characteristics of chemical composition, somatic cell count and rennet coagulation of sheep milk during different stages of lactation. The experimental milk samples were taken from Bulgarian autochthonous sheep breed-Local Stara Zagora sheep, newly developed breed-Bulgarian dairy synthetic population (BDSP), and Lacaune sheep breed. From the data obtained about the chemical composition of sheep milk, it was established that Bulgarian dairy synthetic population sheep breed had the highest fat value – 9.50%, whereas for the other breeds the fat value was approximately 8.30%. A slight variation in values for protein, lactose, solids-non-fat (SNF) and density was observed in the individual milk samples. The determined somatic cell count in the experimental samples ranged from 11 400 to 9 560 866 cells/ml, as the average value for the whole lactation period was 643 259 cells/ml. Strong negative correlation between somatic cell count value and parameters of milk coagulation ability was also established – SSC:RCT (-0.170); SCC:K20 (-0.142) and SCC:A30 (-0.254). The collected data showed undeniably that in order to improve rennet coagulation of sheep milk, conduction of thorough research, analysis and evaluation of milk productivity was needed, as well as application of selective breeding approaches and reduction of somatic cell count in milk.
Green approach to obtain extracts of seven edible flowers
Authors: Petkova D T , Mihaylova D Sp , Deseva I.N. , Denev P N , Krastanov A I
Published: February 2021

Edible flowers are considered as a valuable source of bioactive compounds and are used as food and medicine with growing interest. Microwave extraction technique was employed as a green approach to obtain water extracts from seven edible flowers including Viola tricolor L., Cucurbita pepo L., Sambucus nigra L., Calendula officinalis L., Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L., Rosa damascena Mill. and Allium ursinum L. They were characterized in terms of total content of phenolics and flavonoids, as well as antioxidant potential. The total phenolic content in the edible flower’s extracts ranged between 12.08 ± 0.09 and 72.66 ± 0.60 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g dw and the total flavonoid content was established to vary between 2.36 ± 0.09 and 25.91 ± 0.09 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g dw. The highest values were reported in the extracts of Viola tricolor and Rosa damascena. Moreover, the same extracts displayed the highest antioxidant activity evaluated by six in vitro assays. The lowest activity was detected in the A. ursinum and C. pepo flowers extracts. In addition, the correlation between the conducted assays was studied. In conclusion, all of the studied edible flowers can be considered as promising sources of natural antioxidants in the food industry.
Comparative characteristics of instant creams with sugar and isomaltulose
Authors: Hadjikinova R D
Published: February 2021

In recent years, there has been a trend to replace sugar (sucrose) in the composition of foods with sweet taste, with its alternatives that have a beneficial effect on some of the functions of the human body. One of the newest alternatives to sucrose is isomaltulose, which differs from other sugars by its low glycemic index and its non-cariogenicity. The aim of the present study was to establish the influence of isomaltulose, as a substitute for sucrose in the composition of instant starch creams, on their main physicochemical parameters and properties. Based on a comparative analysis, the main physicochemical parameters and the rheological behavior of instant starch creams obtained with sucrose and isomaltulose were determined. It was found that differences between the samples exist in the indicator-content of reducing substances and the values of glycemic indicator. No differences were observed in the rheological behavior of the creams, similar to the cream with sugar, the cream with isomaltulose refers to non-Newtonian liquids.
Microbiological and sensory quality of Farmers cheese produced from milk with different somatic cells count
Authors: Ivanov G Y , Bilgucu E , Dimitrova M R , Ivanova I V
Published: February 2021

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of somatic cell count SCC of raw milk on the microbiological and sensory characteristics during ageing and storage of Farmers cheese. Test cheese samples were produced from three batches of cow’s milk with low (batches L), medium (batches M) and high (batches H) SCC, respectively. Regardless of the differences in SCC, the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of the three batches were similar. The SCC values in the raw milk had no significant influence on the content of the main components, active acidity and lactic acid concentration in the cheeses produced. In the cheeses made from milks with SCCs exceeding 500,000 cells/ml, the growth of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus was slower compared to the other test samples. The changes in the Streptococcus thermophilus count in the cheese test samples showed trends similar to those established with L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus. Lower sensitivity of S. thermophilus to the inhibiting factors in the milks with a high SCC in comparison with L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus was established. The increase in the SCC values in the raw cow’s milk over 500,000 cells/ml had a negative effect on the organoleptic characteristics and shelf life of the Farmers cheese made from that milk.
The usage of the whole grain spelt flour in the cracker’s technology
Authors: Iorgachova  , Makarova O , Khvostenko K
Published: February 2021

Nowadays there has been a revival of interest in ancient crops, such as spelt wheat, which differs from modern varieties of wheat with more balanced chemical content. The effect full replacement of modern wheat flour with whole grain spelt flour on the cracker’s quality was studied. Addition of the spelt flour leads to a high sensory characteristics formation of the product. Ancient wheat flour based samples characterized with more rich color and more intense taste and aroma. The usage of spelt flour increased the product’s ability to water absorption (145 %), acidity (2.0 degree), which are in the accordance with standard requirements.

The results have shown the positive effect on the nutritional value of the final product. The highest protein content (16.44 g/100 g) was obtained for the enriched samples, there were also an increase in micronutrients content ’ Fe (by 27.8 %), K (by 22.9 %), B5 (by 83.6 %). In vivo studies have proven that consumption of the products based on whole grain spelt flour effectively prevented the development of inflammation and dysbiosis processes. Obtained results indicate the effectiveness of full replacement modern wheat flour with whole grain spelt flour for the cracker’s with high nutritional value production.
Structural effects of selected hydrocolloids on Ca (II)-alginate beads containing hydrosol from Rosa damascena Mill
Authors: Petrova I , Petkova N , Slavchev Al , Petrova T
Published: February 2021

Alginates are suitable for the encapsulation of a great variety of biomolecules. Recent trends include encapsulation of plant extracts or macromolecules in alginate gel to enhance their health and functional properties when they are applied in food matrix or pharmaceutical products. The rose hydrosol is produced by the distillation of petals of (Rosa damascena Mill.). This product is popular in cosmetics also it is used as a food additive in some Eastern country. The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition, antioxidant potential of rose hydrosol and to evaluate the influence of different hydrocolloids on the structural-mechanical properties of Ca (II)-alginate beads with rose hydrosol. The alginate microspheres were formed with different amounts of sodium alginate (2-4%), sucrose, rose hydrosol and selected hydrocolloids, as neutral polysaccharides (inulin and guar gum) and anionic heteropolysacchides (pectin, K-carrageenan, xanthan). The addition of inulin in the concentration 3% and 6% resulted in the increase of the rupture force by 34% and led to improvement in plasticizing effect. The additional complete characterization of the beads with rose hydrosol was performed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, assigning the characteristic bands to each individual component. In this study, the obtained information for structure-mechanical properties allows the design of Ca (II)-alginate systems enriched with dietary fibers and rose hydrosol, with an acceptable sensory profile for future application in foods.
Chemical composition of Bulgarian white oregano (Origanum heracleoticum L.) essential oils
Authors: Baycheva S K , Dobreva K Z
Published: February 2021

The content and composition of essential oils obtained from wild and cultivated Bulgarian white oregano (Origanum Heracleoticum L.) were studied. Herb, inflorescences and leaves (2017 and 2018 harvest years) of wild oregano and leaves (2018 harvest year) of cultivated white oregano were examined. The influence of technological parameters on the yield of essential oil is studied. Content of the essential oils varies from 4,77% to 5,09% for the wild oregano and 5,74% for the cultivated. Aromatic compounds are in the highest amounts in all oils (64,63 – 86,16%). The main compounds (over 3%) in the wild white oregano essential oils were: carvacrol (57,52 – 75,29%), p-cymene (7,79 – 19,10%) and γ-terpinene (4,95 – 11,26%). The main compounds (over 3%) in the cultivated white oregano oil were: carvacrol (45,09%), thymol (12,06%), p-cymene (7,39%), γ-terpinene (5,20%) and thymol methyl ether (3,00%). The results supported the assumption that the studied overground parts of the Bulgarian white oregano are rich in essential oil containing the valuable aromatic compounds carvacrol and thymol, which are the reason for its properties.
Microbiological screening of tobacco raw materials for rolling of cigarettes
Authors: Hristeva T H , Nikolov N P , Nikolova V V , Peeva S T
Published: February 2021

In the modern market of tobacco products worldwide, there is a trend towards increased consumption and trade in cut tobacco for manual rolling of cigarettes (RYO tobacco), including and from unregulated producers. This hides additional risks for the health of the consumers due to the possibility to use low-quality and uncontrolled raw materials, including and with increased presence of pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic microorganisms.

The aim of the study was to determine the total amount of heterotrophic bacteria (microbial count), the amount of microscopic fungi and the most common species in the raw material for tobacco RYO, distributed on the Bulgarian market.

The microbiological analyzes were performed by classical methods accepted in sanitary microbiology. In all samples, spores of the genus Bacillus showed mass development, and according to the macro-morphological characteristics of the colonies, the predominant species can be attributed to B. cereus. The detected amounts of microscopic fungi in the tested tobacco mixtures were significant at strong presence of species of the genus Aspergillus, over 85.48%. Macroscopically, species were defined as A. flavus (41.94%), A. niger (27.42%) and A. fumigatum (16.13%). The relative share of species of the genus Penicillium was 9.68% and of species of the genus Mucor -4.84%. The studied tobacco raw material for manual rolling of cigarettes had significant contamination by microorganisms that had the rank of pathogens. Quantitative microbial assessment suggests a potential health risk for consumers.
Cut surface of Bulgarian white brined cheese evaluation by image analysis in HSI color space
Authors: Bosakova-Ardenska A , Andreeva H , Danev A , Panayotov P , Boyanova P
Published: February 2021

This paper presents a research over possibilities to evaluate a cut surface of white brined cheese by images analysis. Samples from seven trademarks of Bulgarian white cheese in brine are evaluated by experts and their cut surfaces are captured with digital camera. A Java application for color images processing in HSI color space is developed. The application executes multilevel thresholding and produces grayscale images with four colors – white, black, light gray and dark gray. The images of all tested cheese samples are processed with this application and there are calculated ratios of pixels with the same color to all pixels in the processed images (Kdiv for white, black, light gray and dark gray colors). The cut surfaces of cheese samples are evaluated by experts and it is performed a correlation analysis between experts’ estimation and the coefficients Kdiv. The results show that there are a significant correlation between experts’ estimation and the pixels with dark gray color (their coefficient Kdiv) in the processed images.
Physical and sensory characteristics of edible foams obtained with nitrous oxide
Authors: Stankov S S , Fidan H N , Hristov T G , Nikovska K N
Published: February 2021

The aim of the present study was to determine the physical and sensory characteristics of edible foams obtained with nitrous oxide. The recipe compositions of foams with the participation of yogurt, milk cream and fruit puree have been used. The edible foams, also called “espums” were obtained with two fruit puree concentrations -15 and 25% of the liquid’s total mass. The foaming capacity (FC) and foam stabilizing (FS) properties of the products were determined by applying the “Syphon” method. The foaming capacity was highest for the control sample (252.00±7.52%), followed by the foams with 15% persimmon puree (220.00±4.09%). The foam’s lowest foaming capacity values were obtained for the foam with chokeberry puree (180.00±2.19%). The foam stability was determined by the coefficient of foam stabilization, which was determined to be highest (100±9.55%) for the sample with 15% mango puree and lowest for the foam sample obtained with 25% physalis puree (95.77±0.24%). The sensory analysis revealed that the edible foam with 25% mango puree participation resulted in better sensory properties.
New ready-made mixture for biscuits enriched with subtropical fruit powder lucuma
Authors: Durakova A G , Vasileva A L , Slavov A M , Choroleeva K B
Published: February 2021

The consumption of healthy food will always be topical since the intake of unhealthy food has an important impact on a person’s energy resources, their state of mind and weight. This served as an impetus for the present study, namely the preparation of a new ready-made mixture for biscuits enriched with bioactive Lucuma fruit powder. We analysed the antioxidant capacity of the product via four different methods DPPH, ABTS, FRAP and CUPRAC, expressed as mM TE/g powder (2.31±0.53; 9.89±0.29; 8.08±0.51; 24.15±1.13, respectively). The essential objective of this study is to obtain experimental data on adsorption and desorption. We evaluated the sorption isotherms for both processes using the static gravimetric method for the temperatures of 10°C, 25°C and 40°C and relative humidity within the 0.11 -0.90 range. Our results showed that the sorption capacity decreases with the increase in temperature under the conditions of constant water activity. The obtained isotherms were described with four different mathematical models – modified Chung–Pfost, modified Oswin, modified Halsey and modified Henderson. According to our calculations, the modified Halsey model could be recommended for a satisfactory description of the sorption isotherms of the new biscuit mixture. The monolayer moisture content of each temperature was calculated using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) equation for adsorption and desorption.
Online education and monitoring of quality indicators of e-learning use
Authors: Kovalenko O E , Cardoso L M , Kupriyanov O , Bondarenko T S
Published: February 2021

This article analyses the results of the proposed approach to quality assessment of the use of online courses in the system of Ukrainian Engineering Pedagogics Academy e-learning and to assess its effectiveness in solving the problem of improving the quality of education. The courses were inspected after the Spring 2020 semester, according to the following criteria: activity of the process participants; interactivity of the process when using an online course; the intensity of the process by the elements of a course; dynamics of students’ educational achievements and management of the process of using an online course. This article shows that without painstaking daily systematic work regarding supporting the use of each online course, one should not hope for the effective impact of this form of studying. This should be done in every educational institution because the COVID-19 pandemic is not over and a significant part of educational institutions will spend the 2020/2021 academic year under the strict quarantine.
A Concept of Visual Programming Tool for Learning VHDL
Authors: Ivanova Aneliya
Published: February 2021

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, distance education starts playing a crucial role in higher education and the need for development of educational tools, helping the students learn better at home cannot be ignored. Teaching programming languages online is a complicated task and when the course subject is programmable logic design through Hardware Description Languages (HDLs), online teaching becomes a complex challenge. In this paper is presented a concept of a training environment that uses the visual programing technique to help the students create VHDL models of various digital devices. The students construct VHDL models by combining simple visual objects while the environment is providing guidance in real time and is preventing a wrong match of VHDL operators and signals. The strategy for building a model of a compex digital circuit by moving and connecting visual objects will help the students with visual kinaesthetic learning style to internalize the concept and the structure of the VHDL model. The training environment will benefit mostly the students, learning in distance mode, but it is also useful for face-to-face students, who find it difficult to assimilate the specifics of VHDL modelling.
Laboratory complex for training and research of PV-technologies
Authors: Zaerov Eldar , Simionov Radoslav , Seymenliyski Kamen , Letskovska Silviya
Published: February 2021

In recent years, in the EU and, in particular, in Bulgaria, there has been a lack of efficiency in the construction of high-capacity photovoltaic power plants concentrated in areas with low population density. This has sparked a trend towards small PV systems close to consumers. The focus is on the generation and distribution of electricity through the construction of small rooftop PV power plants. The decentralization process for the construction of such stations is the most advanced. In connection with the stimulation of the construction of small photovoltaic power plants as decentralized sources of electricity and their proper technological construction, it is necessary to build an effective learning environment for the training of specialists in practice. The purpose of this article is to present some of the results obtained in conducting laboratory tests conducted jointly with students in the process of their studying.
Information technologies for development of educational resources in robotics
Authors: Chikurtev D S , Chikurteva A A , Spasova N R
Published: February 2021

Digital learning resources are a major part of distance learning in education. In the engineering sciences, where the training is applied and it is often necessary to conduct practical exercises, it is necessary to create both standard digital training resources and specific ones. Specific digital educational resources aim to provide a reproduction of real experiments, through digital and virtual tools. The article discusses ICT for the development of standard and specific digital resources. Software tools and applications for creating various digital resources with application in robotics are presented: Gazebo, Robot Operating System, Arduino. The process and the technologies used to create a digital resource (simulation model) through a Gazebo simulator for working with robots and sensors are described. The created digital resource could be used in various engineering fields such as robotics, embedded systems, software engineering, sensor systems, electronics and others. The resource can be distributed and shared over the Internet (Github), as well as upgraded (modified) by teachers and students.
Prototype of Smart Monument with IoT-based System of Early Warning
Authors: Spasova V G , Georgiev B G , Stefanov P D , Stoyanov B P
Published: February 2021

The preservation of cultural and historical monuments aims to draw public attention to the national heritage, which preserves history and traditions and distinguishes us from other nations. The preservation, restoration and maintenance of any historical monument require skills, knowledge, resources, time and effort. The aim of this article is to present developing a prototype of an early warning system for disasters, mounted on a biggest monument in Varna from the socialist history period. This multidisciplinary project consists of two parts-creating a model of the monument at a scale of 1:20 and installing an IoT based solution, built of sensors and controllers.
TEQUILA: a platform for rapid development of quantum algorithms
Authors: Kottmann Jakob S , Alperin-Lea Sumner , Tamayo-Mendoza Teresa , Cervera-Lierta Alba , Lavigne Cyrille , Yen Tzu-Ching , Verteletskyi Vladyslav , Schleich Philipp , Anand Abhinav , Degroote Matthias , Chaney Skylar , Kesibi Maha , Curnow Naomi Grace , Solo Brandon , Tsilimigkounakis Georgios , Zendejas-Morales Claudia , Izmaylov Artur F , Aspuru-Guzik Alán
Published: February 2021

Variational quantum algorithms are currently the most promising class of algorithms for deployment on near-term quantum computers. In contrast to classical algorithms, there are almost no standardized methods in quantum algorithmic development yet, and the field continues to evolve rapidly. As in classical computing, heuristics play a crucial role in the development of new quantum algorithms, resulting in a high demand for flexible and reliable ways to implement, test, and share new ideas. Inspired by this demand, we introduce tequila, a development package for quantum algorithms in python, designed for fast and flexible implementation, prototyping and deployment of novel quantum algorithms in electronic structure and other fields. tequila operates with abstract expectation values which can be combined, transformed, differentiated, and optimized. On evaluation, the abstract data structures are compiled to run on state of the art quantum simulators or interfaces.
Is the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme Intervention Delivered as Planned? An Observational Study of Fidelity of Intervention Delivery
Authors: French David P , Hawkes Rhiannon E , Bower Peter , Cameron Elaine
Published: February 2021

Background

The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme (NHS-DPP) has been delivered by four commercial organizations across England, to prevent people with impaired glucose tolerance developing Type 2 diabetes. Evidence reviews underpinning the NHS-DPP design specification identified 19 Behavior Change Techniques (BCTs) that are the intervention “active ingredients.” It is important to understand the discrepancies between BCTs specified in design and BCTs actually delivered.

Purpose

To compare observed fidelity of delivery of BCTs that were delivered to (a) the NHS-DPP design specification, and (b) the programme manuals of four provider organizations.

Methods

Audio-recordings were made of complete delivery of NHS-DPP courses at eight diverse sites (two courses per provider organization). The eight courses consisted of 111 group sessions, with 409 patients and 35 facilitators. BCT Taxonomy v1 was used to reliably code the contents of NHS-DPP design specification documents, programme manuals for each provider organization, and observed NHS-DPP group sessions.

Results

The NHS-DPP design specification indicated 19 BCTs that should be delivered, whereas only seven (37%) were delivered during the programme in all eight courses. By contrast, between 70% and 89% of BCTs specified in programme manuals were delivered. There was substantial under-delivery of BCTs that were designed to improve self-regulation of behavior, for example, those involving problem solving and self-monitoring of behavior.

Conclusions

A lack of fidelity in delivery to the underlying evidence base was apparent, due to poor translation of design specification to programme manuals. By contrast, the fidelity of delivery to the programme manuals was relatively good. Future commissioning should focus on ensuring the evidence base is more accurately translated into the programme manual contents.
Negative Attitudes, Self-efficacy, and Relapse Management Mediate Long-Term Adherence to Exercise in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Alonso Windy W , Kupzyk Kevin , Norman Joseph , Bills Sara E , Bosak Kelly , Dunn Susan L , Deka Pallav , Pozehl Bunny
Published: February 2021

Background

Exercise is safe and provides considerable benefits for patients with heart failure (HF) including improved function, quality of life, and symptoms. However, patients with HF have difficulty initiating and adhering to an exercise regimen. To improve adherence, our team developed Heart Failure Exercise and Resistance Training (HEART) Camp, a multicomponent, theory-driven intervention that was efficacious in a randomized controlled trial of long-term adherence to exercise in patients with HF. Identifying active components of efficacious interventions is a priority.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to use mediation analysis to determine which interventional components accounted for long-term adherence to exercise in patients with HF.

Methods

This study included 204 patients with HF enrolled in a randomized controlled trial. Instruments measuring interventional components were completed at baseline, 6, 12, and 18 months. Hierarchical linear models generated slope estimates to be used as predictors in logistic regression models. Significant variables were tested for indirect effects using path analyses with 1,000 bootstrapped estimates.

Results

Significant mediation effects were observed for the interventional components of negative attitudes (β NA = 0.368, s.e. = 0.062, p < .001), self-efficacy (β SE = 0.190, s.e. = 0.047, p < .001), and relapse management (β RM = 0.243, s.e. = 0.076, p = .001).

Conclusions

These findings highlight improving attitudes, self-efficacy, and managing relapse as key interventional components to improve long-term adherence to exercise in patients with HF. Future interventions targeting adherence to exercise in patients with HF and other chronic illnesses should consider the incorporation of these active components.
Lessons Learned From Twenty-Eight Cases of Burns Following Breast Reconstruction: An Underestimated Complication Requiring Inclusion in Consent Information
Authors: Habibi Koohyar , Delay Emmanuel , Sarfati Isabelle , Duteille Franck , Clough Krishna B , Atlan Michael
Published: February 2021

Background

There has over recent years been a constant increase in annual breast reconstruction figures. Although reports indicate that burns following breast reconstruction are a rare occurrence, there has nevertheless been a relative increase in cases. The key underlying causes of this type of condition remain unknown.

Objectives

The authors launched a new study on the demographic characteristics of burns in the breast reconstruction population with the inclusion of up-to-date data to assess cases and contributing factors.

Methods

The study was a multicenter retrospective review of patients who underwent any type of breast reconstruction and subsequently sustained burn injuries.

Results

Twenty-eight cases of burn injury following breast reconstruction were documented; 6 involved autologous flaps and 22 involved implants. Nine of the 10 implant exposure cases had previous history of radiotherapy, but there was no statistically significant difference between previous radiotherapy history and implant exposure (P = 0.32). Of the 13 cases sustaining full-thickness burns, a large number included implant-based reconstruction (n = 12, 92%), although no statistically significant difference was observed between type of reconstruction and incidence of full-thickness burns (P = 0.17).

Conclusions

Each patient undergoing breast reconstruction should be advised of the potential risks and instructed to avoid significant heat exposure and steer clear of dark-colored bathing suits. At the time of writing, this information has yet to be included in the vast majority of surgery-related informed consent documents.

Level of Evidence: 4
Metabolomic analysis to elucidate the change of the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in senescent osteoblasts
Authors: Wu Ying , Zhang Mengjun , Chen Xinwei , Zhou Yu , Chen Zhou
Published: February 2021

Senile osteoporosis is a major public health concern, and yet, effective treatment methods do not exist. Herein, we used metabolomics to analyze the change of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in senescent osteoblasts. We found that with an increase in the number of passages, the osteoblasts proliferative ability, alkaline phosphatase activity, and expression levels of bone metabolism genes decreased, the expression levels of aging-related genes increased, the damage caused by oxidative stress became more severe. Furthermore, levels of n-3 PUFA family members were downregulated in passage 10 than in passage 3 osteoblasts. These findings indicated that multiple passages led to more severe oxidative stress damage in senescent osteoblasts, which could be related to a decrease in n-3 PUFA levels. We believe that unsaturated fatty acid metabolism is a key factor involved in osteoblast senescence and that a proper dietary intake of n-3 PUFA may delay the occurrence senile osteoporosis.
Effect of radiofrequency heating of vacuum-packed nitrite-free sausage on quality properties and microorganism inactivation
Authors: Jantapirak Suveena , Takahashi Chieko , Uemura Kunihiko
Published: February 2021

The effect of radiofrequency (RF) heating technology at 27 MHz and 8 kW on the quality properties of vacuum-packed nitrite-free sausages was investigated. One of the several advantages of RF heating technology is the use of less time compared to retort heating. RF heating at 125 °C for a holding time of 2 min and retort heating at 121 °C for 7 min reduced Bacillus subtilis to 7 log cfu/g. In addition, the textural properties of the RF-heated sausages were better than those of retort-heated samples. Furthermore, the growth of B. subtilis and general live bacteria at 25 °C were not detected after 42 days of shelf life in the sausages that underwent RF heating at 125 °C with a holding time of 2 min.
Schisandrin B inhibits α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone-induced melanogenesis in B16F10 cells via downregulation of MAPK and CREB signaling pathways
Authors: Zhao Na , Su Xiaoming , Li He , Li Zhengyi , Wang Yueyang , Chen Jianguang , Zhuang Wenyue
Published: February 2021

Schisandrin B (Sch B), a lignan compound in Schisandra, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiobesity activities. The effect of Sch B on melanogenesis and molecular mechanisms are still unknown. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the antimelanogenic effects of Sch B on α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone–induced B16F10 cells and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. We found that Sch B significantly suppressed melanin content and mushroom tyrosinase (TYR) activity. Sch B treatment decreased the expression of TYR, melanocyte-inducing transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase-related protein (TRP) 1, and TRP2. Moreover, Sch B modulated the phosphorylation of p38, extracellular-regulated protein kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB), implying that these pathways may be involved in suppressing melanogenesis. Furthermore, we found that Sch B decreased melanogenesis by downregulating MITF and melanogenic enzymes via MAPK and CREB pathways. Overall, these findings indicate that Sch B has the potential use in whitening.
Studies on analogs of DAMASCENOLIDETM: Part 3. Synthesis and odor evaluation of dimethylated, cyclopropanated, and other analogs of DAMASCENOLIDETM
Authors: Miyazawa Yamato , Kawaguchi Kenji , Katsuta Ryo , Nukada Tomoo , Ishigami Ken
Published: February 2021

DAMASCENOLIDETM [1, 4-(4-methylpent-3-en-1-yl)furan-2(5H)-one], which has a citrus-like odor, is an important aroma component of roses. We have previously reported on the synthesis and odor evaluation of 24 analogs of 1 as part of our new aroma compound developing project. To accumulate more information on structure–odor relationships, 10 more promising analogs such as dimethylated and cyclopropanated analogs were synthesized and subjected to odor evaluation. As a result, it was found that dimethylation of the furanone ring affected the odor. It was also found that cyclopropanation of 1 affected the odor, whereas cyclopropanation of the double bond isomer of 1 did not significantly affect the odor. The effects on the odor caused by ring size expansion and replacement of the side chain were also investigated.
Characterization of lysine acetylation in the peripheral subunit-binding domain of the E2 subunit of the pyruvate dehydrogenase-2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase hybrid complex from Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Komine-Abe Ayano , Kondo Naoko , Kubo Shosei , Kawasaki Hisashi , Nishiyama Makoto , Kosono Saori
Published: February 2021

In Corynebacterium glutamicum, pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase (ODH) form a unique hybrid complex in which CgE1p and CgE1o are associated with the CgE2–CgE3 subcomplex. We analyzed the role of a lysine acetylation site in the peripheral subunit-binding domain of CgE2 in PDH and ODH functions. Acetylation-mimic substitution at Lys391 of CgE2 severely reduced the interaction of CgE2 with CgE1p and CgE3, but not with CgE1o, indicating the critical role of this residue in the assembly of CgE1p and CgE3 into the complex. It also suggested that Lys391 acetylation inhibited the binding of CgE1p and CgE3 to CgE2, thereby affecting PDH and ODH activities. Interestingly, the CgE2-K391R variant strain showed increased l-glutamate production and reduced pyruvate accumulation. Kinetic analysis suggested that the increased affinity of the K391R variant toward pyruvate might be advantageous for l-glutamate production.
Suppressive effects of sulfated polysaccharide ascophyllan isolated from Ascophyllum nodosum on the production of NO and ROS in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells
Authors: Liang Yan , Zha Shijiao , Tentaku Masanobu , Okimura Takasi , Jiang Zedong , Ueno Mikinori , Hirasaka Katsuya , Yamaguchi Kenichi , Oda Tatsuya
Published: February 2021

In this study, we found that a sulfated polysaccharide isolated from the brown alga Ascophyllum nodosum, ascophyllan, showed suppressive effects on stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Ascophyllan significantly inhibited expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase mRNA and excessive production of nitric oxide (NO) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner without affecting the viability of RAW264.7 cells. Ascophyllan also reduced the elevated level of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, preincubation with ascophyllan resulted in concentration-dependent decrease in ROS production in phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Our results suggest that ascophyllan can exhibit anti-inflammatory effects on stimulated macrophages mainly through the attenuation of NO and ROS productions.
Comparative evaluation for thermostability and gastrointestinal survival of probiotic Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856
Authors: Majeed Muhammed , Majeed Shaheen , Arumugam Sivakumar , Ali Furqan , Beede Kirankumar
Published: February 2021

Thermal stability (D-value and pasteurization) and gastric acid resistance of spore forming and nonspore forming probiotic strains were evaluated in this study. Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 spores showed highest thermal resistance (D-value 35.71 at 90 °C) when compared with other Bacillus strains and Lactobacillus species. B. coagulans strains exhibited significantly higher resistance to simulated gastric juice (pH 1.3, 1.5, and 2.0) compared to Lactobacillus strains. It also showed high resistance to cooking conditions of chapati (whole wheat flour-based flatbread) (88.94% viability) and wheat noodles (and 94.56% viability), suggesting remarkable thermal resistance during food processing. Furthermore, B. coagulans MTCC 5856 retained 73% viability after microwave cooking conditions (300 s, at 260 °C) and 98.52% in milk and juice at pasteurization temperature (420 min, at 72 °C). Thus, B. coagulans MTCC 5856 clearly demonstrated excellent resistance to gastric acid and high temperature (90 °C), thereby suggesting its extended application in functional foods (milk, fruit juices, chapati, and wheat noodles) wherein high temperature processing is involved.
Effects of a single dose of tablets containing lactononadecapeptide on cognitive function in healthy adults: a randomized, double-blind, cross-over, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Sasai Masaki , Kato Megumi , Ohsawa Kazuhito , Sashihara Koichi , Nakamura Yasunori , Kaneko Toshiyuki
Published: February 2021

Lactononadecapeptide (LNDP; NIPPLTQTPVVVPPFLQPE) is a memory-improving peptide. The current study aimed to determine the effects of a single dose of tablets containing LNDP on cognitive function in healthy Japanese men aged 30-59 years. A randomized, double-blind, cross-over, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in participants randomly assigned to receive LNDP or placebo tablets. The Uchida–Kraepelin test was used to induce cognitive load in participants as a model of work load. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Japanese version of the CNS Vital Signs. Composite memory and verbal memory were significantly higher following consumption of LNDP than placebo tablets. Carryover effects were observed in attention and concentration domains so that period 1 data was analyzed. LNDP consumption led to higher processing speed, executive function, and cognitive flexibility than placebo. Thus, supplementation with a single dose of LNDP tablets may improve cognitive functions including memory, attention, concentration, and information processing in daily life.
Development of a mito-CRISPR system for generating mitochondrial DNA-deleted strain in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Amai Takamitsu , Tsuji Tomoka , Ueda Mitsuyoshi , Kuroda Kouichi
Published: February 2021

Mitochondrial dysfunction can occur in a variety of ways, most often due to the deletion or mutation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The easy generation of yeasts with mtDNA deletion is attractive for analyzing the functions of the mtDNA gene. Treatment of yeasts with ethidium bromide is a well-known method for generating ρ° cells with complete deletion of mtDNA from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. However, the mutagenic effects of ethidium bromide on the nuclear genome cannot be excluded. In this study, we developed a “mito-CRISPR system” that specifically generates ρ° cells of yeasts. This system enabled the specific cleavage of mtDNA by introducing Cas9 fused with the mitochondrial target sequence at the N-terminus and guide RNA into mitochondria, resulting in the specific generation of ρ° cells in yeasts. The mito-CRISPR system provides a concise technology for deleting mtDNA in yeasts.
Integrated conditional moment test and beyond: when the number of covariates is divergent
Authors: Tan Falong , Zhu Lixing
Published: February 2021

The classical integrated conditional moment test is a promising method for model checking and its basic idea has been applied to develop several variants. However, in diverging-dimension scenarios, the integrated conditional moment test may break down and has completely different limiting properties from the fixed-dimension case. Furthermore, the related wild bootstrap approximation can also be invalid. To extend this classical test to diverging dimension settings, we propose a projected adaptive-to-model version of the integrated conditional moment test. We study the asymptotic properties of the new test under both the null and alternative hypotheses to examine if it maintains significance level, and its sensitivity to the global and local alternatives that are distinct from the null at the rate $n^{-1/2}$. The corresponding wild bootstrap approximation can still work for the new test in diverging-dimension scenarios. We also derive the consistency and asymptotically linear representation of the least squares estimator when the parameter diverges at the fastest possible known rate in the literature. Numerical studies show that the new test can greatly enhance the performance of the integrated conditional moment test in high-dimensional cases. We also apply the test to a real dataset for illustration.
Aortic aneurysms with tricuspid aortic valve have more degeneration than unicuspid aortic valve aneurysms
Authors: Federspiel Jan M , Schnabel Philipp A , Tschernig Thomas , Balint Brittany , Schwab Tanja , Laschke Matthias W , Schäfers Hans-Joachim
Published: February 2021

OBJECTIVES

The unicuspid aortic valve (UAV) is a rare cardiac malformation and is associated with the formation of ascending aortic aneurysms. To characterize its associated aortic wall changes, normal and aneurysmatic ascending aortic wall specimens were analysed, focusing on the potential mechanisms of aneurysm formation. Patients with tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) served as controls.

METHODS

In a retrospective observational study, 74 specimens (dilated and non-dilated aortas; individuals with UAV and TAV) obtained intraoperatively were studied. Standard stains and immunohistochemical labelling of cleaved caspase-3, cluster of differentiation 31 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) were performed to assess the degree of apoptosis, distribution of eNOS within the aortic wall, smooth muscle cell (SMC) nuclei loss and mucoid extracellular matrix accumulation (MEMA).

RESULTS

Deeper ingrowth of vasa vasorum was found in dilated aortas. Interestingly, eNOS was expressed mostly in vasa vasorum. More apoptosis was seen in UAV aortas compared to TAV aortas (P < 0.001). Both UAV and TAV aortas were comparable regarding SMC nuclei loss (P = 0.419). In dilated compared to non-dilated aortas regardless valve morphology SMC nuclei loss was increased (P = 0.005) and more pronounced translamellar MEMA was present (P = 0.011). The highest grade of distribution (P = 0.043) and the highest severity (P = 0.005) regarding MEMA were seen in TAV dilated specimens compared to UAV dilated specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Aneurysms with UAV show increased apoptosis, the role of which is unclear. Strikingly, more severe MEMA was found in TAV aneurysms compared to UAV aneurysms. Thus, UAV-associated aortic wall changes and resulting aneurysm may be less aggressive than aneurysms with TAV.
Long-term outcomes following endovascular and surgical revascularization for peripheral artery disease: a propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Parvar Saman L , Ngo Linh , Dawson Joseph , Nicholls Stephen J , Fitridge Robert , Psaltis Peter J , Ranasinghe Isuru
Published: February 2021

Aims

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) revascularization can be performed by either endovascular or open surgical approach. Despite increasing use of endovascular revascularization, it is still uncertain which strategy yields better long-term outcomes.

Methods and results

This retrospective cohort study evaluated patients hospitalized with PAD in Australia and New Zealand who underwent either endovascular or surgical revascularization between 2008 and 2015, and compared procedures using a propensity score-matched analysis. Hybrid interventions were excluded. The primary endpoint was mortality or major adverse limb events (MALE), defined as a composite endpoint of acute limb ischaemia, urgent surgical or endovascular reintervention, or major amputation, up to 8 years post-hospitalization using time-to-event analyses 75 189 patients fulfilled eligibility (15 239 surgery and 59 950 endovascular), from whom 14 339 matched pairs (mean ± SD age 71 ± 12 years, 73% male) with good covariate balance were identified. Endovascular revascularization was associated with an increase in combined MALE or mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09–1.17, P < 0.001]. There was a similar risk of MALE (HR 1.04, 95% CI: 0.99–1.10, P = 0.15), and all-cause urgent rehospitalizations (HR 1.01, 95% CI: 0.98–1.04, P = 0.57), but higher mortality (HR 1.16, 95% CI: 1.11–1.21, P < 0.001) when endovascular repair was compared to surgery. In subgroup analysis, these findings were consistent for both claudication and chronic limb-threatening ischaemia presentations.

Conclusion

Although the long-term risk of MALE was comparable for both approaches, enduring advantages of surgical revascularization included lower long-term mortality. This is at odds with some prior PAD studies and highlights contention in this space.