bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gradient Difference of Structure of Rural Construction Land in Loess Hilly Region: A Case Study of Yuzhong County, Gansu Province, China
Authors: Ma Libang , Cui Xijuan , Yao Yao , Liu Shichun
Published: March 2021

Studying the differences in the township gradient of rural construction land structures at the microscale is beneficial for the adjustment of rural construction land structure based on local conditions and differentiation, for the classification and guidance of the scientific planning and management of rural construction land, and for improving the level of intensive use of rural construction land. In this study, we took 268 administrative villages of Yuzhong County in the Loess Hilly Region as the research object and conducted research on the internal structure and gradient difference of rural construction land from two aspects: quantitative structure and spatial layout. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) the distribution of rural construction land has significant connection with the river and road. The land structure of the county is simple, with large differences in area and uneven quantities between different types; (2) the shape of a rural construction land patch is complicated, with a high degree of fragmentation. The spatial agglomeration is not significant, and there is a significant difference between “east-west-north-south” in space; (3) the rural construction land has a significant gradient effect at the township level. In terms of quantitative structure, the closer the construction land is to key towns and central towns, the more complex the construction land, the higher the information entropy as well as the equilibrium degree, and the lower the dominant degree. Moreover, the spatial layout shows an upward trend in the fractal dimension, fragmentation degree and separation degree when the level of the township decreases.
FBG Strain Monitoring of a Road Structure Reinforced with a Geosynthetic Mattress in Cases of Subsoil Deformation in Mining Activity Areas
Authors: Juraszek Janusz , Gwóźdź-Lasoń Monika , Logoń Dominik
Published: March 2021

This paper presents implementation of purpose-designed optical fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensors intended for the monitoring of real values of strain in reinforced road structures in areas of mining activity. Two field test stations are described. The first enables analysis of the geogrid on concrete and ground subgrades. The second models the situation of subsoil deformation due to mining activity at different external loads. The paper presents a system of optical fibre sensors of strain and temperature dedicated for the investigated mattress. Laboratory tests were performed to determine the strain characteristic of the FBG sensor-geogrid system with respect to standard load. As a result, it was possible to establish the dependence of the geogrid strain on the forces occurring in it. This may be the basis for the analysis of the mining activity effect on right-of-way structures during precise strain measurements of a geogrid using FBG sensors embedded in it. The analysis of the results of measurements in the aspect of forecasted and actual static and dynamic effects of mining on the stability of a reinforced road structure is of key importance for detailed management of the road investment and for appropriate repair and modernization management of the road structure.
Allogeneic Dentin Graft: A Review on Its Osteoinductivity and Antigenicity
Authors: Um In-Woong , Lee Jeong-Keun , Kim Jun-Young , Kim Yu-Mi , Bakhshalian Neema , Jeong Yeong Kon , Ku Jeong-Kui
Published: March 2021

Studies on allogeneic demineralized dentin matrix (Allo-DDM) implantation in the 1960s and 1970s provided the most reliable preclinical evidence of bone formation and antigenicity in an extraosseous site. Recently, applications of Allo-DDM at skeletal sites were studied, and have provided reliable evidence of bone-forming capacity and negligible antigenicity. However, the osteoinductivity and antigenicity properties of Allo-DDM in extraskeletal sites have not yet been investigated due to the lack of follow-up studies after the initial research. The clinical applications of autogenous DDM (Auto-DDM) have been standardized in some countries. Long-term clinical studies have reported the development of several shapes of Auto-DDM, such as powders, blocks, moldable forms, and composites, with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2. For the development of Allo-DDM as a reliable bone graft substitute next to Auto-DDM, we reviewed preclinical studies on the bone induction capacity of allogeneic dentin at extraskeletal as well as skeletal sites. Electronic databases were screened for this review in January 2020 and searched from 1960 to 2019. This review aims to provide a foundation on the preclinical studies of Allo-DDM, which could enable future researches on its osteogenic capability and antigenicity. In conclusion, Allo-DDM showed great potential for osteoinductivity in extraskeletal sites with low antigenicity, which neither adversely affected osteogenic capability nor provoked immunologic reactions. However, the risk of viral disease transmission should be researched before the clinical application of Allo-DDM.
Effect of Bond-Line Thickness on Fatigue Crack Growth of Structural Acrylic Adhesive Joints
Authors: Sekiguchi Yu , Sato Chiaki
Published: March 2021

With an increasing demand for adhesives, the durability of joints has become highly important. The fatigue resistance of adhesives has been investigated mainly for epoxies, but in recent years many other resins have been adopted for structural adhesives. Therefore, understanding the fatigue characteristics of these resins is also important. In this study, the cyclic fatigue behavior of a two-part acrylic-based adhesive used for structural bonding was investigated using a fracture-mechanics approach. Fatigue tests for mode I loading were conducted under displacement control using double cantilever beam specimens with varying bond-line thicknesses. When the fatigue crack growth rate per cycle, da/dN, reached 10−5 mm/cycle, the fatigue toughness reduced to 1/10 of the critical fracture energy. In addition, significant changes in the characteristics of fatigue crack growth were observed varying the bond-line thickness and loading conditions. However, the predominance of the adhesive thickness on the fatigue crack growth resistance was confirmed regardless of the initial loading conditions. The thicker the adhesive bond line, the greater the fatigue toughness.
Towards Embedded Computation with Building Materials
Authors: Przyczyna Dawid , Suchecki Maciej , Adamatzky Andrew , Szaciłowski Konrad
Published: March 2021

We present results showing the capability of concrete-based information processing substrate in the signal classification task in accordance with in materio computing paradigm. As the Reservoir Computing is a suitable model for describing embedded in materio computation, we propose that this type of presented basic construction unit can be used as a source for “reservoir of states” necessary for simple tuning of the readout layer. We present an electrical characterization of the set of samples with different additive concentrations followed by a dynamical analysis of selected specimens showing fingerprints of memfractive properties. As part of dynamic analysis, several fractal dimensions and entropy parameters for the output signal were analyzed to explore the richness of the reservoir configuration space. In addition, to investigate the chaotic nature and self-affinity of the signal, Lyapunov exponents and Detrended Fluctuation Analysis exponents were calculated. Moreover, on the basis of obtained parameters, classification of the signal waveform shapes can be performed in scenarios explicitly tuned for a given device terminal.
Nucleation Controlled by Non-Fickian Fractional Diffusion
Authors: Svetukhin Vyacheslav
Published: March 2021

Kinetic models of aggregation and dissolution of clusters in disordered heterogeneous materials based on subdiffusive equations containing fractional derivatives are studied. Using the generalized fractional Fick law and fractional Fokker–Planck equation for impurity diffusion with localization, we consider modifications of the classical models of Ham, Aaron–Kotler, and Lifshitz–Slezov for nucleation and decomposition of solid solutions. The asymptotic time dependencies of supersaturation degree, average cluster size, and other characteristics at the stages of subdiffusion-limited nucleation and coalescence are calculated and analyzed.
Classroom Methodologies for Teaching and Learning Ordinary Differential Equations: A Systemic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Lozada Esperanza , Guerrero-Ortiz Carolina , Coronel Aníbal , Medina Rigoberto
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we develop a review of the research focused on the teaching and learning of ordinary differential equations with the following three purposes: to get an overview of the existing literature of the topic, to contribute to the integration of the actual knowledge, and to define some possible challenges and perspectives for the further research in the topic. The methodology we followed is a combination of a systematic literature review and a bibliometric analysis. The contributions of the paper are given by the following: shed light on the latest research in this area, present a characterization of the actual research lines regarding the teaching and learning of ordinary differential equations, present some topics to be addressed in the next years and define a starting point for researchers who are interested in developing research in this field.
Effect of the Characteristic Properties of Membrane on Long-Term Stability in the Vacuum Membrane Distillation Process
Authors: Suga Yuki , Takagi Ryousuke , Matsuyama Hideto
Published: March 2021

Membrane distillation (MD) is a technology that can treat feed solutions with higher osmotic pressure, as well as produce high-purity water. However, the water production cost of the MD process is expensive. In this study, to decrease the water production cost, we attempted to evaluate the effect of membrane characteristics on the long-term stability of a vacuum MD (VMD) system. We fabricated four different types of polyvinylidene difluoride hollow fiber membranes, and operated a VMD system with 3.5 wt% NaCl aqueous solution at 65 °C as a feed under 11 kPa of air gap pressure. Consequently, in the proposed VMD system, it is found that the liquid entry pressure (LEP) is the most important factor. When LEP was higher than 0.37 MPa, the pilot-scale module was very stable for long-term operations, and the vapor flux was approximately 19.3 kg/m2·h with a total salt retention factor of over 99.9% during the 300-h operation.
The Bacteriostatic Activity of 2-Phenylethanol Derivatives Correlates with Membrane Binding Affinity
Authors: Kleinwächter Isabel S. , Pannwitt Stefanie , Centi Alessia , Hellmann Nadja , Thines Eckhard , Bereau Tristan , Schneider Dirk
Published: March 2021

The hydrophobic tails of aliphatic primary alcohols do insert into the hydrophobic core of a lipid bilayer. Thereby, they disrupt hydrophobic interactions between the lipid molecules, resulting in a decreased lipid order, i.e., an increased membrane fluidity. While aromatic alcohols, such as 2-phenylethanol, also insert into lipid bilayers and disturb the membrane organization, the impact of aromatic alcohols on the structure of biological membranes, as well as the potential physiological implication of membrane incorporation has only been studied to a limited extent. Although diverse targets are discussed to be causing the bacteriostatic and bactericidal activity of 2-phenylethanol, it is clear that 2-phenylethanol severely affects the structure of biomembranes, which has been linked to its bacteriostatic activity. Yet, in fungi some 2-phenylethanol derivatives are also produced, some of which appear to also have bacteriostatic activities. We showed that the 2-phenylethanol derivatives phenylacetic acid, phenyllactic acid, and methyl phenylacetate, but not Tyrosol, were fully incorporated into model membranes and affected the membrane organization. Furthermore, we observed that the propensity of the herein-analyzed molecules to partition into biomembranes positively correlated with their respective bacteriostatic activity, which clearly linked the bacteriotoxic activity of the substances to biomembranes.
Surface Structuring via Additive Manufacturing to Improve the Performance of Metal and Polymer Joints
Authors: Zou Xin , Huang Lifu , Chen Ke , Jiang Muyang , Zhang Shanyong , Wang Min , Hua Xueming , Shan Aidang
Published: March 2021

In order to enhance the joint performance of Ti6Al4V titanium alloy (TC4) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) for biomedical applications, different structures were fabricated on TC4 surfaces via electron beam melting (EBM) method in this study. Macromorphologies and microinterfaces of TC4–UHMWPE joints produced via hot pressing technique were carefully characterized and analyzed. The effects of different surface structures on mechanical properties and fractured surfaces were investigated and compared. Strong direct bonding (1751 N) between UHMWPE and TC4 was achieved. The interfacial bonding behavior of TC4–UHMWPE joints was further discussed. This study demonstrates the importance of combining macro- and micromechanical interlocking, which is a promising strategy for improving metal–polymer joint performance. It also provides guidance for metal surface structuring from both theoretical and practical perspectives.
Diversity of Microorganisms in Biocrusts Surrounding Highly Saline Potash Tailing Piles in Germany
Authors: Pushkareva Ekaterina , Sommer Veronika , Barrantes Israel , Karsten Ulf
Published: March 2021

Potash tailing piles located in Germany represent extremely hypersaline locations that negatively affect neighbouring environments and limit the development of higher vegetation. However, biocrusts, as cryptogamic covers, inhabit some of these areas and provide essential ecological functions, but, nevertheless, they remain poorly described. Here, we applied high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and targeted four groups of microorganisms: bacteria, cyanobacteria, fungi and other eukaryotes. The sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene revealed the dominance of Proteobacteria, Cyanobacteria and Actinobacteria. Additionally, we applied yanobacteria-specific primers for a detailed assessment of the cyanobacterial community, which was dominated by members of the filamentous orders Synechococcales and Oscillatoriales. Furthermore, the majority of reads in the studied biocrusts obtained by sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene belonged to eukaryotic microalgae. In addition, sequencing of the internal rDNA transcribed spacer region (ITS) showed the dominance of Ascomycota within the fungal community. Overall, these molecular data provided the first detailed overview of microorganisms associated with biocrusts inhabiting highly saline potash tailing piles and showed the dissimilarities in microbial diversity among the samples.
Antiviral Properties of Human Milk
Authors: Wedekind Sophie I. S. , Shenker Natalie S.
Published: March 2021

Humans have always coexisted with viruses, with both positive and negative consequences. Evolutionary pressure on mammals has selected intrinsic properties of lactation and milk to support the relatively immunocompromised neonate from environmental pathogens, as well as support the normal development of diverse immune responses. Human milk supports both adaptive and innate immunity, with specific constituents that drive immune learning and maturation, and direct protection against microorganisms. Viruses constitute one of the most ancient pressures on human evolution, and yet there is a lack of awareness by both public and healthcare professionals of the complexity of human milk as an adaptive response beyond the production of maternal antibodies. This review identifies and describes the specific antiviral properties of human milk and describes how maternal support of infants through lactation is protective beyond antibodies.
The Microbiome-Gut-Brain Axis and Resilience to Developing Anxiety or Depression under Stress
Authors: Bear Tracey , Dalziel Julie , Coad Jane , Roy Nicole , Butts Christine , Gopal Pramod
Published: March 2021

Episodes of depression and anxiety commonly follow the experience of stress, however not everyone who experiences stress develops a mood disorder. Individuals who are able to experience stress without a negative emotional effect are considered stress resilient. Stress-resilience (and its counterpart stress-susceptibility) are influenced by several psychological and biological factors, including the microbiome-gut-brain axis. Emerging research shows that the gut microbiota can influence mood, and that stress is an important variable in this relationship. Stress alters the gut microbiota and plausibly this could contribute to stress-related changes in mood. Most of the reported research has been conducted using animal models and demonstrates a relationship between gut microbiome and mood. The translational evidence from human clinical studies however is rather limited. In this review we examine the microbiome-gut-brain axis research in relation to stress resilience.
Pre-Alpine Tectono-Stratigraphic Reconstruction of the Jurassic Tethys in the High-Pressure Internal Piedmont Zone (Stura di Viù Valley, Western Alps)
Authors: De Togni Marcello , Gattiglio Marco , Ghignone Stefano , Festa Andrea
Published: March 2021

We present a detailed description of the tectono-stratigraphic architecture of the eclogite-facies Internal Piedmont Zone (IPZ) metaophiolite, exposed in the Lanzo Valleys (Western Alps), which represents the remnant of the Jurassic Alpine Tethys. Seafloor spreading and mantle exhumation processes related to the Alpine Tethys evolution strongly conditioned the intra-oceanic depositional setting, which resulted in an articulated physiography and a heterogeneous stratigraphic succession above the exhumed serpentinized mantle. “Complete” and “reduced” successions were recognized, reflecting deposition in morphological or structural lows and highs, respectively. The “complete” succession consists of quartzite, followed by marble and calcschist. The “reduced” succession differs for the unconformable contact of the calcschist directly above mantle rocks, lacking quartzite and gray marble. The serpentinite at the base of this succession is intruded by metagabbro and characterized at its top by ophicalcite horizons. Mafic metabreccia grading to metasandstone mark the transition between the “complete” and “reduced” successions. The character of the reconstructed succession and basin floor physiography of the IPZ metaophiolite is well comparable with the Middle Jurassic–Late Cretaceous succession of both the Queyras Complex (External Piedmont Zone) and the Internal Ligurian Units (Northern Apennines) and with modern slow-spreading mid-ocean ridges.
Prediction of Postflotation Tailings Behavior in a Large Storage Facility
Authors: Wróżyńska Magdalena
Published: March 2021

Extracting and copper production on a large scale generates large volumes of postflotation mine tailings. The scale of operation and development of tailings storage facilities (TSFs) forces the use of innovative solutions enabling safe storage now and in the future. Any changes to the operation require multi-directional monitoring of the impact of these changes on storage safety. The ongoing exploitation will be ensured by expansion of the TSF and a change in tailings storage technology. This approach will preclude the need for changes to the new location, such as changes of land use, and will minimise the volume of mine waste. The paper presents the results of pilot studies carried out to implement the change in postflotation tailings storage technology at Żelazny Most TSF (Poland) in the future. The aim of the paper was settlements prediction of tailings and comparison of deformations with observed settlements. Settlements prediction of tailings was made on the basis of the results of the DMT (Marchetti Dilatometer Test), recommended for the prediction of natural soil settlement. Depending on the analysed zone of the TSF, settlements ranged from a few centimetres to over 1.5 m. Despite the difference shown, the results of DMT and geodetic measurements indicate a convergent trend of settlement.
Numerical Modelling of Radiogenic Ingrowth and Diffusion of Pb in Apatite Inclusions with Variable Shape and U-Th Zonation
Authors: Popov Daniil V. , Spikings Richard A.
Published: March 2021

The fundamental premise of apatite U-Th-Pb thermochronology is that radiogenic Pb is redistributed by volume diffusion. In practice, it is often additionally assumed that crystals (1) lose radiogenic Pb to an infinite reservoir, (2) have a simple geometry and (3) are chemically homogeneous. Here we explore the significance of the latter three assumptions by numerical modelling of Pb radiogenic ingrowth and diffusion in apatite inclusions within other minerals. Our results indicate that the host minerals are likely to hamper diffusive Pb loss from the apatite inclusions by limiting the Pb flux across their boundaries, and thus the thermal histories that are reconstructed assuming a fully open boundary may be significantly inaccurate, precluding a meaningful interpretation. We also find that when apatite boundaries are flux-limited, heterogeneities in U and Th concertation within apatite have subordinate effect on bulk-grain U-Th-Pb dates and can cause intra-grain U-Th-Pb dates to increase towards the boundaries. Finally, we show that it is important to correctly account for crystal geometry when modelling intra-grain U-Th-Pb dates. We suggest that the effect of surrounding minerals on diffusive Pb loss from apatite (and loss of other radiogenic isotopes from other minerals) should be examined more closely in future research.
Recovering Magnetization of Rock Formations by Jointly Inverting Airborne Gravity Gradiometry and Total Magnetic Intensity Data
Authors: Jorgensen Michael , Zhdanov Michael
Published: March 2021

Conventional 3D magnetic inversion methods are based on the assumption that there is no remanent magnetization, and the inversion is run for magnetic susceptibility only. This approach is well-suited to targeting mineralization; however, it ignores the situation where the direction of magnetization of the rock formations is different from the direction of the induced magnetic field. We present a novel method of recovering a spatial distribution of magnetization vector within the rock formation based on joint inversion of airborne gravity gradiometry (AGG) and total magnetic intensity (TMI) data for a shared earth model. Increasing the number of inversion parameters (the scalar components of magnetization vector) results in a higher degree of non-uniqueness of the inverse problem. This increase of non-uniqueness rate can be remedied by joint inversion based on (1) Gramian constraints or (2) joint focusing stabilizers. The Gramian constraints enforce shared earth structure through a correlation of the model gradients. The joint focusing stabilizers also enforce the structural similarity and are implemented using minimum support or minimum gradient support approaches. Both novel approaches are applied to the interpretation of the airborne data collected over the Thunderbird V-Ti-Fe deposit in Ontario, Canada. By combining the complementary AGG and TMI data, we generate jointly inverted shared earth models that provide a congruent image of the rock formations hosting the mineral deposit.
Chemical Analysis of Thermoluminescent Colorless Topaz Crystal Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
Authors: Abbasi Shahab Ahmed , Rafique Muhammad , Khan Taj Muhammad , Khan Adnan , Ahmad Nasar , Faruque Mohammad Rashed Iqbal , Khandaker Mayeen Uddin , Ahmad Pervaiz , Saboor Abdul
Published: March 2021

We present results of calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis of natural colorless topaz crystal of local Pakistani origin. Topaz plasma was produced in the ambient air using a nanosecond laser pulse of width 5 ns and wavelength 532 nm. For the purpose of detection of maximum possible constituent elements within the Topaz sample, the laser fluences were varied, ranging 19.6–37.6 J·cm−2 and optical emission from the plasma was recorded within the spectral range of 250–870 nm. The spectrum obtained has shown the presence of seven elements viz. Al, Si, F, O, H, Na and N. Results shows that the fluorine was detected at laser fluence higher than 35 J·cm−2 and plasma temperature of >1 eV. Al and Si were found as the major compositional elements in topaz crystals. The ratios of concentrations of Al and Si were found as 1.55 and 1.59 estimated by CF-LIBS and EDX, respectively. Furthermore, no impurity was found in the investigated colorless topaz samples.
Bromine Isotope Variations in Magmatic and Hydrothermal Sodalite and Tugtupite and the Estimation of Br Isotope Fractionation between Melt and Sodalite
Authors: Eggenkamp Hans G. M. , Marks Michael A. W. , Louvat Pascale , Markl Gregor
Published: March 2021

We determined the bromine isotope compositions of magmatic and hydrothermal sodalite (Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2) and tugtupite (Na8Al2Be2Si8O24Cl2) from the Ilímaussaq intrusion in South Greenland, in order to constrain the Br isotope composition of the melt and hydrothermal fluids from which these minerals were formed. Early formed magmatic sodalite has high Br contents (138 ± 10 µg/g, n = 5) and low δ81Br values (+0.23 ± 0.07‰). Late stage hydrothermal sodalite has lower Br contents (53±10 µg/g, n = 5) and higher δ81Br values (+0.36 ± 0.08‰). Tugtupite that forms at even later stages shows the lowest Br contents (26 ± 2 µg/g, n = 2) and the highest δ81Br values (+0.71 ± 0.17‰). One hydrothermal sodalite has a Br concentration of 48 ± 9 µg/g and an exceptionally high δ81Br of 0.82 ± 0.12‰, very similar to the δ81Br of tugtupites. We suggest that this may be a very late stage sodalite that possibly formed under Be deficient conditions. The data set suggests that sodalite crystallises with a negative Br isotope fractionation factor, which means that the sodalite has a more negative δ81Br than the melt, of −0.3 to −0.4‰ from the melt. This leads to a value of +0.5 to +0.6‰ relative to SMOB for the melt from which sodalite crystallises. This value is similar to a recently published δ81Br value of +0.7‰ for very deep geothermal fluids with very high R/Ra He isotope ratios, presumably derived from the mantle. During crystallisation of later stage hydrothermal sodalite and the Be mineral tugtupite, δ81Br of the residual fluids (both melt and hydrothermal fluid) increases as light 79Br crystallises in the sodalite and tugtupite. This results in increasing δ81Br values of later stage minerals that crystallise with comparable fractionation factors from a fluid with increasingly higher δ81Br values.
Developing Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective Porous Adsorbent for Carbon Dioxide Capture
Authors: Nabavinia Mahboubeh , Kanjilal Baishali , Fujinuma Naohiro , Mugweru Amos , Noshadi Iman
Published: March 2021

To address the issue of global warming and climate change issues, recent research efforts have highlighted opportunities for capturing and electrochemically converting carbon dioxide (CO2). Despite metal doped polymers receiving widespread attention in this respect, the structures hitherto reported lack in ease of synthesis with scale up feasibility. In this study, a series of mesoporous metal-doped polymers (MRFs) with tunable metal functionality and hierarchical porosity were successfully synthesized using a one-step copolymerization of resorcinol and formaldehyde with Polyethyleneimine (PEI) under solvothermal conditions. The effect of PEI and metal doping concentrations were observed on physical properties and adsorption results. The results confirmed the role of PEI on the mesoporosity of the polymer networks and high surface area in addition to enhanced CO2 capture capacity. The resulting Cobalt doped material shows excellent thermal stability and promising CO2 capture performance, with equilibrium adsorption of 2.3 mmol CO2/g at 0 °C and 1 bar for at a surface area 675.62 m2/g. This mesoporous polymer, with its ease of synthesis is a promising candidate for promising for CO2 capture and possible subsequent electrochemical conversion.
Adlay Testa (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. Ma-yuen Stapf.) Ethanolic Extract and Its Active Components Exert Anti-Proliferative Effects on Endometrial Cancer Cells via Cell Cycle Arrest
Authors: Huang Yun-Ju , Chang Chih-Chao , Wang Yun-Ya , Chiang Wen-Chang , Shih Yin-Hwa , Shieh Tzong-Ming , Wang Kai-Lee , Ali Mohamed , Hsia Shih-Min
Published: March 2021

Endometrial cancer is the most common malignant tumors of gynecologic neoplasms in Western society. In recent years, the incidence of endometrial cancer has increased, and it has become the third most common female gynecological cancer (after ovarian and cervical cancer) in Taiwan. Adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. Ma-yuen Stapf.) has been demonstrated to have bioactive polyphenols, flavonoids, phytosterols, and essential nutrients for health benefits, including anticancer effects in humans. However, little is known about the effect of adlay seeds on endometrial cancer. Our study aimed to investigate the potential growth inhibitory effects of several adlay seed fractions, including ethyl acetate (ATE-EA) and its bioactive constituents, separately on endometrial cancer cells—HEC-1A (phosphatase and tensin homolog-positive) and RL95-2 (phosphatase and tensin homolog-negative)—and identify related active ingredients. In addition, the potential active fractions and the phytochemical compounds were elucidated. The results demonstrate superior activity of ATE-EA with significant in vitro cell proliferation inhibitory capacity, particularly its C.D.E.F-subfraction. Moreover, HPLC- and GC/FID-based quantification of ATE-EA subfractions showed that phenolic compounds (caffeic acid, protocatechuic acid, and p-hydroxybenzaldehyde), flavonoids, steroids, and fatty acid compounds exert anti-proliferative effects in the cell model. Finally, it was shown that cell growth and cell cycle arrest most significantly occurred in the in G1 or G2/M phase under ATE-EA treatment. Collectively, our results demonstrate an antiproliferative effect of ATE-EA on endometrial cancer cells that suggest a positive health outcome for women from consumption of these compounds.
Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) Nanocomposites: Effect of Inorganic Nanoparticles Reinforcement on Its Performance and Food Packaging Applications
Authors: Mulla Mehrajfatema Zafar , Rahman Md Ramim Tanver , Marcos Begonya , Tiwari Brijesh , Pathania Shivani
Published: March 2021

Poly lactic acid (PLA) is a compostable, as well as recyclable, sustainable, versatile and environmentally friendly alternative, because the monomer of PLA-lactide (LA) is extracted from natural sources. PLA’s techno-functional properties are fairly similar to fossil-based polymers; however, in pristine state, its brittleness and delicacy during processing pose challenges to its potential exploitation in diverse food packaging applications. PLA is, therefore, re-engineered to improve its thermal, rheological, barrier and mechanical properties through nanoparticle (NP) reinforcement. This review summarises the studies on PLA-based nanocomposites (PLA NCs) developed by reinforcing inorganic metal/metallic oxide, graphite and silica-based nanoparticles (NPs) that exhibit remarkable improvement in terms of storage modulus, tensile strength, crystallinity, glass transition temperature (Tg) value, antimicrobial property and a decrease in water vapour and oxygen permeability when compared with the pristine PLA films. This review has also discussed the regulations around the use of metal oxide-based NPs in food packaging, PLA NC biodegradability and their applications in food systems. The industrial acceptance of NCs shows highly promising perspectives for the replacement of traditional petrochemical-based polymers currently being used for food packaging.
Pharmacognostic Evaluation and HPLC–PDA and HS–SPME/GC–MS Metabolomic Profiling of Eleutherococcus senticosus Fruits
Authors: Graczyk Filip , Strzemski Maciej , Balcerek Maciej , Kozłowska Weronika , Mazurek Barbara , Karakuła Michał , Sowa Ireneusz , Ptaszyńska Aneta A. , Załuski Daniel
Published: March 2021

Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Maxim. is a medicinal plant used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years. However, due to the overexploitation, this species is considered to be endangered and is included in the Red List, e.g., in the Republic of Korea. Therefore, a new source of this important plant in Europe is needed. The aim of this study was to develop pharmacognostic and phytochemical parameters of the fruits. The content of polyphenols (eleutherosides B, E, E1) and phenolic acids in the different parts of the fruits, as well as tocopherols, fatty acids in the oil, and volatile constituents were studied by the means of chromatographic techniques [HPLC with Photodiode-Array Detection (PDA), headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS–SPME/GC–MS)]. To the best of our knowledge, no information is available on the content of eleutherosides and phenolic acids in the pericarp and seeds. The highest sum of eleutheroside B and E was detected in the whole fruits (1.4 mg/g), next in the pericarp (1.23 mg/g) and the seeds (0.85 mg/g). Amongst chlorogenic acid derivatives (3-CQA, 4-CQA, 5-CQA), 3-CQA was predominant in the whole fruits (1.08 mg/g), next in the pericarp (0.66 mg/g), and the seeds (0.076 mg/g). The oil was rich in linoleic acid (C18:3 (n-3), 18.24%), ursolic acid (35.72 mg/g), and α-tocopherol (8.36 mg/g). The presence of druses and yellow oil droplets in the inner zone of the mesocarp and chromoplasts in the outer zone can be used as anatomical markers. These studies provide a phytochemical proof for accumulation of polyphenols mainly in the pericarp, and these structures may be taken into consideration as their source subjected to extraction to obtain polyphenol-rich extracts.
Hydrophilic and Functionalized Nanographene Oxide Incorporated Faster Dissolving Megestrol Acetate
Authors: Islam Mohammad Saiful , Renner Faradae , Foster Kimberly , Oderinde Martin S. , Stefanski Kevin , Mitra Somenath
Published: March 2021

The aim of this work is to present an approach to enhance the dissolution of progestin medication, megestrol acetate (also known as MEGACE), for improving the dissolution rate and kinetic solubility by incorporating nano graphene oxide (nGO). An antisolvent precipitation process was investigated for nGO-drug composite preparation, where prepared composites showed crystalline properties that were similar to the pure drug but enhanced aqueous dispersibility and colloidal stability. To validate the efficient release profile of composite, in vitro dissolution testing was carried out using United States Pharmacopeia, USP-42 paddle method, with gastric pH (1.4) and intestinal pH (6.5) solutions to mimic in vivo conditions. Pure MA is practically insoluble (2 µg/mL at 37 °C). With the incorporation of nGO, it was possible to dissolve nearly 100% in the assay. With the incorporation of 1.0% of nGO, the time required to dissolve 50% and 80% of drug, namely T50 and T80, decreased from 138.0 min to 27.0 min, and the drug did not dissolve for 97.0 min in gastric media, respectively. Additionally, studies done in intestinal media have revealed T50 did not dissolve for 92.0 min. This work shows promise in incorporating functionalized nanoparticles into the crystal lattice of poorly soluble drugs to improve dissolution rate.
Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Activity of Spray-Dry Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var Italica) Stalk and Floret Juice Powders
Authors: Saavedra-Leos María Zenaida , Leyva-Porras César , Toxqui-Terán Alberto , Espinosa-Solis Vicente
Published: March 2021

This research presents the microencapsulation and conservation of antioxidants of broccoli juice processed by spray drying, and proposes the use of a by-product as a technological application. Broccoli juice (BJ) extracted from two sources, stalks and florets, was spray-dried employing maltodextrin (MX) as a carrier agent at concentrations of 5, 7.5, and 10%, and inlet temperatures of 150 and 220 °C. The total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activity (AA) of the BJ-MX powders were determined together with the physicochemical characteristics, including particle morphology, microstructure, and thermal properties. Based on the TPC and AA, the optimal processing conditions found were 5% of MX and a drying temperature of 220 °C. However, the florets showed higher TPC, while stalks presented higher AA under those processing conditions. The particles exhibited micrometric sizes and a mixture of spherical-shape particles and pseudo-spherical particles. The diffractograms indicated an amorphous microstructure in all samples. The glass transition temperature (Tg) was determined in the range of 50 °C for the samples dried at 150 °C and 55 °C for those dried at 220 °C. This suggested that powders might be stored at temperatures below the Tg without presenting any loss of antioxidants.
Low-Toxic, Earth-Abundant Nanostructured Materials for Thermoelectric Applications
Authors: Jaldurgam Farheen F. , Ahmad Zubair , Touati Farid
Published: March 2021

This article presents recent research directions in the study of Earth-abundant, cost-effective, and low-toxic advanced nanostructured materials for thermoelectric generator (TEG) applications. This study’s critical aspect is to systematically evaluate the development of high-performance nanostructured thermoelectric (TE) materials from sustainable sources, which are expected to have a meaningful and enduring impact in developing a cost-effective TE system. We review both the performance and limitation aspects of these materials at multiple temperatures from experimental and theoretical viewpoints. Recent developments in these materials towards enhancing the dimensionless figure of merit, Seebeck coefficient, reduction of the thermal conductivity, and improvement of electrical conductivity have also been discussed in detail. Finally, the future direction and the prospects of these nanostructured materials have been proposed.
Using Supermarket Loyalty Card Data to Provide Personalised Advice to Help Reduce Saturated Fat Intake among Patients with Hypercholesterolemia: A Qualitative Study of Participants’ Experiences
Authors: Lee Charlotte L. , Aveyard Paul N. , Jebb Susan A. , Piernas Carmen
Published: March 2021

Background: The ‘Primary Care SHOPping Intervention for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention’ (PCSHOP) trial tested the effectiveness and feasibility of a behavioural intervention to reduce saturated fat in food purchases. The intervention offered feedback from data collected through a supermarket loyalty card to supplement brief advice from a nurse. This qualitative study aimed to describe participants’ experiences of receiving this intervention. Methods: We conducted semi-structured, one-to-one, telephone interviews with participants from the PCSHOP trial. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. We employed the one sheet of paper technique and a thematic analysis to develop high-level themes in NVivo software. Results: Twenty-four participants were interviewed (mean age: 63 years (SD 12)). They reported that the brief advice did not provide any new information but they welcomed the sense of accountability the nurse provided. The personalised shopping feedback and healthier swap suggestions provided novel information that challenged previously held beliefs about the saturated fat content of food purchases and encouraged some positive dietary changes. However, the taste preferences of the participant or other household members were a barrier to changing food shopping behaviours. Conclusion: Harnessing loyalty card data is a novel and acceptable method to offering personalised dietary feedback. Yet, issues on the suitability of the healthier swap suggestions limited the extent of dietary change. Trial registration: ISRCTN14279335. Registered 1 September 2017.
The Gut Microbiome in Schizophrenia and the Potential Benefits of Prebiotic and Probiotic Treatment
Authors: Liu Jonathan C. W. , Gorbovskaya Ilona , Hahn Margaret K. , Müller Daniel J.
Published: March 2021

The gut microbiome (GMB) plays an important role in developmental processes and has been implicated in the etiology of psychiatric disorders. However, the relationship between GMB and schizophrenia remains unclear. In this article, we review the existing evidence surrounding the gut microbiome in schizophrenia and the potential for antipsychotics to cause adverse metabolic events by altering the gut microbiome. We also evaluate the current evidence for the clinical use of probiotic and prebiotic treatment in schizophrenia. The current data on microbiome alteration in schizophrenia remain conflicting. Longitudinal and larger studies will help elucidate the confounding effect on the microbiome. Current studies help lay the groundwork for further investigations into the role of the GMB in the development, presentation, progression and potential treatment of schizophrenia.
Time-Restricted Eating for 12 Weeks Does Not Adversely Alter Bone Turnover in Overweight Adults
Authors: Lobene Andrea J. , Panda Satchidananda , Mashek Douglas G. , Manoogian Emily N. C. , Hill Gallant Kathleen M. , Chow Lisa S.
Published: March 2021

Weight loss is a major focus of research and public health efforts. Time-restricted eating (TRE) is shown to be effective for weight loss, but the impact on bone is unclear. Short-term TRE studies show no effect on bone mineral density (BMD), but no study has measured bone turnover markers. This secondary analysis examined the effect of 12 weeks of TRE vs. unrestricted eating on bone turnover and BMD. Overweight and obese adults aged 18–65 y (n = 20) were randomized to TRE (ad libitum 8-h eating window) or non-TRE. Serum N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (P1NP), cross-linked N-telopeptide of type I collagen (NTX), and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels were measured and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans were taken pre- and post-intervention. In both groups, P1NP decreased significantly (p = 0.04) but trended to a greater decrease in the non-TRE group (p = 0.07). The treatment time interaction for bone mineral content (BMC) was significant (p = 0.02), such that BMC increased in the TRE group and decreased in the non-TRE group. Change in P1NP was inversely correlated with change in weight (p = 0.04) overall, but not within each group. These findings suggest that TRE does not adversely affect bone over a moderate timeframe. Further research should examine the long-term effects of TRE on bone.
OmpA Protein-Deficient Acinetobacter baumannii Outer Membrane Vesicles Trigger Reduced Inflammatory Response
Authors: Skerniškytė Jūratė , Karazijaitė Emilija , Lučiūnaitė Asta , Sužiedėlienė Edita
Published: March 2021

Multidrug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii shows a growing number of nosocomial infections worldwide during the last decade. The outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) produced by this bacterium draw increasing attention as a possible treatment target. OMVs have been implicated in the reduction of antibiotic level in the surrounding environment, transfer of virulence factors into the host cells, and induction of inflammatory response. Although the evidence on the involvement of OMVs in A. baumannii pathogenesis is currently growing, their role during inflammation is insufficiently explored. It is likely that bacteria, by secreting OMVs, can expand the area of their exposure and prepare surrounding matrix for infection. Here, we investigated the impact of A. baumannii OMVs on activation of macrophages in vitro. We show that OmpA protein present in A. baumannii OMVs substantially contributes to the proinflammatory response in J774 murine macrophages and to the cell death in both lung epithelium cells and macrophages. The loss of OmpA protein in OMVs, obtained from A. baumannii ∆ompA mutant, resulted in the altered expression of genes coding for IL-6, NLRP3 and IL-1β proinflammatory molecules in macrophages in vitro. These results imply that OmpA protein in bacterial OMVs could trigger a more intense proinflammatory response.
Three-Dimensional Printing of Curcumin-Loaded Biodegradable and Flexible Scaffold for Intracranial Therapy of Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Li Ruixiu , Song Yunmei , Fouladian Paris , Arafat Mohammad , Chung Rosa , Kohlhagen Jarrod , Garg Sanjay
Published: March 2021

A novel drug delivery system preventing Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) recurrence after resection surgery is imperatively required to overcome the mechanical limitation of the current local drug delivery system and to offer personalised treatment options for GBM patients. In this study, 3D printed biodegradable flexible porous scaffolds were developed via Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) three-dimensional (3D) printing technology for the local delivery of curcumin. The flexible porous scaffolds were 3D printed with various geometries containing 1, 3, 5, and 7% (w/w) of curcumin, respectively, using curcumin-loaded polycaprolactone (PCL) filaments. The scaffolds were characterised by a series of characterisation studies and in vitro studies were also performed including drug release study, scaffold degradation study, and cytotoxicity study. The curcumin-loaded PCL scaffolds displayed versatile spatiotemporal characteristics. The polymeric scaffolds obtained great mechanical flexibility with a low tensile modulus of less than 2 MPa, and 4 to 7-fold ultimate tensile strain, which can avoid the mechanical mismatch problem of commercially available GLIADEL wafer with a further improvement in surgical margin coverage. In vitro release profiles have demonstrated the sustained release patterns of curcumin with adjustable release amounts and durations up to 77 h. MTT study has demonstrated the great cytotoxic effect of curcumin-loaded scaffolds against the U87 human GBM cell line. Therefore, 3D printed curcumin-loaded scaffold has great promise to provide better GBM treatment options with its mechanical flexibility and customisability to match individual needs, preventing post-surgery GBM recurrence and eventually prolonging the life expectancy of GBM patients.
Integrative Analysis of Gene Expression and miRNAs Reveal Biological Pathways Associated with Bud Paradormancy and Endodormancy in Grapevine
Authors: Smita Shuchi , Robben Michael , Deuja Anup , Accerbi Monica , Green Pamela J. , Subramanian Senthil , Fennell Anne
Published: March 2021

Transition of grapevine buds from paradormancy to endodormancy is coordinated by changes in gene expression, phytohormones, transcription factors, and other molecular regulators, but the mechanisms involved in transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of dormancy stages are not well delineated. To identify potential regulatory targets, an integrative analysis of differential gene expression profiles and their inverse relationships with miRNA abundance was performed in paradormant (long day (LD) 15 h) or endodormant (short day (SD), 13 h) Vitis riparia buds. There were 400 up- and 936 downregulated differentially expressed genes in SD relative to LD buds. Gene set and gene ontology enrichment analysis indicated that hormone signaling and cell cycling genes were downregulated in SD relative to LD buds. miRNA abundance and inverse expression analyses of miRNA target genes indicated increased abundance of miRNAs that negatively regulate genes involved with cell cycle and meristem development in endodormant buds and miRNAs targeting starch metabolism related genes in paradormant buds. Analysis of interactions between abundant miRNAs and transcription factors identified a network with coinciding regulation of cell cycle and epigenetic regulation related genes in SD buds. This network provides evidence for cross regulation occurring between miRNA and transcription factors both upstream and downstream of MYB3R1.