bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Effects of Exercise Training and Nutritional Supplementation in Cancer Patients in the Context of the COVID-19: A Perspective Study
Authors: Molanouri Shamsi Mahdieh , Vahed Alieh , Hekmatikar AmirHossin Ahmadi , Suzuki Katsuhiko
Published: March 2022

The 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic, has caused unprecedented global social and economic impacts and many deaths. Many risk factors have been identified in the progression of COVID-19 to severe and critical stages, and it is shown that the coronavirus appears more severely in people with cancer. Pro-inflammatory status and weakened immune system due to cancer-related treatments can be determinants in the immune system’s response to the coronavirus in these patients. Higher physical activity levels are associated with lower hospitalization rates and mortality in COVID-19. Also, regular exercise training can improve immune system responses, modulate inflammatory responses, and improve psychological parameters in cancer patients. The interactive effects of nutritional supplements on immune responses and anti-inflammatory status have been shown in some studies. The purpose of this perspective article was to investigate the interaction between dietary supplementation and regular physical exercise in controlling risk factors associated with coronavirus in cancer patients. In addition to appropriate dietary habits, some nutritional supplements, especially vitamin D, have been shown to improve the immune system’s response against COVID-19 and cancer. Using lifestyle strategies such as regular physical activity and intake of functional compounds as supplements can be effective in treatment outcomes, quality of life, and overall survival in cancer patients. We proposed that combining dietary supplements and exercise training in cancer patients can boost immune responses against COVID-19 and probably improve vaccine responses. Angiotensin (ANG)-(1-7) Mas receptor axis can probably activate following exercise training and vitamin D combination. And can prevent pulmonary injury, hematological alterations, and hyperinflammatory state in COVID-19.
A Treatable Genetic Disease Caused by CAD Mutation
Authors: Peng Xia , Xia Li-ping , Zhang Hai-ju , Zhang Jing , Yu Shi-qian , Wang Shun , Xu Yu-ming , Yao Baozhen , Ye Jingping
Published: March 2022

Type 50 early infantile epileptic encephalopathy, or EIEE-50 for short, is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder resulting from CAD mutations. So far, little has been reported on the disease. In this article, we will discuss the case of a male infant who is 8 years and 5 months old. A whole-exome sequencing of the boy revealed CAD compound heterozygous mutations. He suffered from global developmental delay and regression, refractory epilepsy, and anemia. After his diagnosis, we used uridine treatment and gained encouraging results. In this article, we will analyze our case studies in the context of the literature, so as to improve pediatricians' understanding of the disease.
HIF1α/VEGF Feedback Loop Contributes to 5-Fluorouracil Resistance
Authors: Shi Bin , Xu Fang-Fang , Xiang Cai-Ping , Li Chuan-Yan , Fan Ping , Wang Hao
Published: March 2022

5-Fluorouracil (5-Fu) is one of the basic drugs in colorectal cancer (CRC) chemotherapy, and its efficacy is mainly limited by the acquisition of drug resistance. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) was screened for high expression in 5-Fu resistant HCT115 cells, which displayed epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype. Suppression of HIF1α reversed EMT phenotype, reduced glucose transporter 1 (Glut1) expression, a key molecule mediated drug resistance. Moreover, we unveiled that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was regulated by HIF1α and mediated HIF1α-maintained malignant phenotype of 5-Fu resistant cells. Further studies verified that AKT/GSK3β signaling was activated in resistant cells and controlled HIF1α expression. Interestingly, we demonstrated that VEGF could feedback up-regulate HIF1α via AKT/GSK3β signaling. Clinically, HIF1α and VEGF were high expressed and associated with survival and prognosis in CRC patients. In conclusion, our findings proposed that HIF1α/VEGF feedback loop contributed to 5-Fu resistance, which might be potential therapeutic targets.
Childhood Disorder: Dysregulated Self-Conscious Emotions? Psychopathological Correlates of Implicit and Explicit Shame and Guilt in Clinical and Non-clinical Children and Adolescents
Authors: Hendriks Eline , Muris Peter , Meesters Cor , Houben Katrijn
Published: March 2022

This study examined psychopathological correlates of implicit and explicit shame and guilt in 30 clinical and 129 non-clinical youths aged 8–17 years. Shame and guilt were measured explicitly via two self-reports and a parent report, and implicitly by means of an Implicit Association Test (IAT), while a wide range of psychopathological symptoms were assessed with questionnaires completed by children, parents, and teachers. The results showed no differences of implicit and explicit shame and guilt between the clinical and non-clinical group, implying that dysregulation of these self-conscious emotions is not per definition associated with psychopathology. Correlational analyses indicated that self-reported explicit shame was positively associated with a broad range of internalizing psychopathology, while self-reported explicit guilt was associated with higher levels of anxiety and to some extent lower levels of externalizing psychopathology. Correlations with parent-rated shame and guilt revealed the same pattern of results but were in general weaker. Furthermore, implicit shame and guilt did not show significant correlations with the various measures of psychopathology. It can be concluded that the link between shame and guilt and psychopathology is complex, and partly dependent on the disorder under study and context-related factors defining the maladaptive nature of these self-conscious emotions.
Cancer Anxiety Mediates the Association Between Satisfaction With Medical Communication and Psychological Quality of Life After Prophylactic Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy
Authors: Zarbo Cristina , Brugnera Agostino , Frigerio Luigi , Celi Chiara , Compare Angelo , Dessì Valentina , Giordano Rosalba , Malandrino Chiara , Sina Federica Paola , Strepparava Maria Grazia , Tessitore Isadora Vaglio , Ventura Mariangela , Fruscio Robert
Published: March 2022

Background

Prophylactic Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy (PBSO) reduces the risk of developing ovarian cancer. However, the psychological mechanisms that may affect post-surgery Quality of Life (QoL) among patients who underwent PBSO are still largely unknown. Thus, this study aimed at exploring the direct and indirect associations of satisfaction with medical communication and cancer anxiety on post-surgery QoL among women at high risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Method

Fifty-nine women (mean age: 50.64 ± 6.7 years) who underwent PBSO took part in this cross-sectional study, filling out a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire, a battery of validated psychological measures and an ad hoc developed scale for the assessment of cancer anxiety. We first examined the correlations among all variables of interest, and then tested if cancer anxiety mediated the association between satisfaction with medical communication and post-surgery psychological QoL, controlling both for time from surgery and education.

Results

Post-surgery psychological QoL was unrelated from any sociodemographic or clinical variable. Cancer anxiety had a significant direct negative effect on psychological QoL, while satisfaction with medical communication had a significant positive direct effect on it. Finally, cancer anxiety significantly mediated the association between satisfaction with medical communication and post-surgery psychological QoL.

Discussion

Results suggest that post-surgery psychological QoL of patients who underwent PBSO may be increased with interventions, delivered in a genetic counselling setting, targeting quality of medical communication and cancer anxiety.
Minimal Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health and Wellbeing of People Living With Dementia: Analysis of Matched Longitudinal Data From the IDEAL Study
Authors: Sabatini Serena , Bennett Holly Q. , Martyr Anthony , Collins Rachel , Gamble Laura D. , Matthews Fiona E. , Pentecost Claire , Dawson Eleanor , Hunt Anna , Parker Sophie , Allan Louise , Burns Alistair , Litherland Rachael , Quinn Catherine , Clare Linda
Published: March 2022

Objective

Research suggests a decline in the mental health and wellbeing of people with dementia (PwD) during the COVID-19 pandemic; however few studies have compared data collected pre-pandemic and during the pandemic. Moreover, none have compared this change with what would be expected due to dementia progression. We explored whether PwD experienced changes in mental health and wellbeing by comparing pre-pandemic and pandemic data, and drew comparisons with another group of PwD questioned on two occasions prior to the pandemic.

Methods

Community-dwelling PwD enrolled in the IDEAL programme were split into two groups matched for age group, sex, dementia diagnosis, and time since diagnosis. Although each group was assessed twice, one was assessed prior to and during the pandemic (pandemic group; n = 115) whereas the other was assessed prior to the pandemic (pre-pandemic group; n = 230). PwD completed measures of mood, sense of self, wellbeing, optimism, quality of life, and life satisfaction.

Results

Compared to the pre-pandemic group, the pandemic group were less likely to report mood problems, or be pessimistic, but more likely to become dissatisfied with their lives. There were no changes in continuity in sense of self, wellbeing, and quality of life.

Discussion

Results suggest the pandemic had little effect on the mental health and wellbeing of PwD, with any changes observed likely to be consistent with expected rates of decline due to dementia. Although personal accounts attest to the challenges experienced, PwD appear to have been resilient to the impact of lockdown and social restrictions during the pandemic.
Mind Your Manners! A Dataset and a Continual Learning Approach for Assessing Social Appropriateness of Robot Actions
Authors: Tjomsland Jonas , Kalkan Sinan , Gunes Hatice
Published: March 2022

To date, endowing robots with an ability to assess social appropriateness of their actions has not been possible. This has been mainly due to (i) the lack of relevant and labelled data and (ii) the lack of formulations of this as a lifelong learning problem. In this paper, we address these two issues. We first introduce the Socially Appropriate Domestic Robot Actions dataset (MANNERS-DB), which contains appropriateness labels of robot actions annotated by humans. Secondly, we train and evaluate a baseline Multi Layer Perceptron and a Bayesian Neural Network (BNN) that estimate social appropriateness of actions in MANNERS-DB. Finally, we formulate learning social appropriateness of actions as a continual learning problem using the uncertainty of Bayesian Neural Network parameters. The experimental results show that the social appropriateness of robot actions can be predicted with a satisfactory level of precision. To facilitate reproducibility and further progress in this area, MANNERS-DB, the trained models and the relevant code are made publicly available athttps://github.com/jonastjoms/MANNERS-DB.
Left External Iliac Vein Injury During Laparoscopic Pelvic Lymphadenectomy for Early-Stage Ovarian Cancer: Our Experience and Review of Literature
Authors: Tinelli Raffaele , Dellino Miriam , Nappi Luigi , Sorrentino Felice , D'Alterio Maurizio Nicola , Angioni Stefano , Bogani Giorgio , Pisconti Salvatore , Uccella Stefano , Silvestris Erica
Published: March 2022

Laparoscopic surgical staging is the standard treatment of early-stage ovarian tumors with similar survival outcomes if compared with laparotomic procedures. In this article, we report a case regarding an incidental external iliac vein injury during a pelvic lymphadenectomy for fertility sparing treatment of early-stage ovarian cancer with a video showing the laparoscopic repair without any consequence or side effect. A 36 year-old obese woman with Body Mass Index 30 kg/m2 referred at our hospital with an histological diagnosis of high grade ovarian serous carcinoma after a left laparoscopic salpingo-oophorectomy performed in another hospital. After an hysteroscopy with endometrial biopsy, a laparoscopic surgical staging with a pelvic and aortic lymphadenectomy with lymph-node dissection until the left renal vein, omentectomy, and appendectomy were performed. A thermal injury to the left external iliac vein occurred using the bipolar forceps during lymphadenectomy and was repaired after an immediate clamping of the site using endoclinch and the suction irrigator probe. The laceration on the iliac vein was successfully repaired using 10 mm laparoscopic titanium clips; after a follow-up of 42 months no recurrence was detected. In conclusion, laparoscopy is a safe and effective therapeutic option for fertility sparing treatment patients with early stage ovarian carcinoma with a significantly low morbidity and postoperative hospitalization, but it should be reserved for oncologic surgeons trained in advanced laparoscopic procedures and repair of vascular injuries potentially associated with high mortality rate.
Hover Performance Analyses of Coaxial Co-Rotating Rotors for eVTOL Aircraft
Authors: Lee Yu-Been , Park Jae-Sang
Published: March 2022

Hover performance analyses of coaxial co-rotating rotors (or stacked rotors), which can be used as lifting rotors for electric VTOL (eVTOL) aircraft, are conducted here. In this study, the rotorcraft comprehensive analysis code, CAMRAD II, is used with the general free-wake model. The generic coaxial co-rotating rotor without the blade taper and built-in twist is considered as the baseline rotor model, and the rotor is trimmed to match a prescribed rotor thrust value. The hover performance, including the rotor power and Figure of Merit (FM), is investigated for various index angles, axial spacings, blade taper ratios, and built-in twist angles. A maximum FM value is obtained near an index angle of 0° and 10° when the axial spacing is below and above 5.27%R, respectively. When the index angle is 0° and axial spacing is 1.44% R, the maximum increments in the FM are 3.03% and 6.06%, respectively, for a rotor with a blade taper ratio of 0.8 and a built-in twist angle of −12°. Therefore, this simulation study demonstrates that the hover performance of coaxial co-rotating rotors can be changed by adjusting the index angle or the axial spacing.
Common Variable Immunodeficiency in Elderly Patients: A Long-Term Clinical Experience
Authors: Danieli Maria Giovanna , Mezzanotte Cristina , Verga Jacopo Umberto , Menghini Denise , Pedini Veronica , Bilò Maria Beatrice , Moroncini Gianluca
Published: March 2022

Background: Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a complex, predominantly antibody deficiency usually diagnosed between 20–40 years. Few data about elderly patients are reported in the literature. Our aim was to evaluate the clinical phenotypes of elderly patients with CVID. Method: A retrospective analysis of adult patients with CVID was performed in our Referral Centre, focusing on the main differences between “older” patients (≥65 years at the diagnosis) and “younger” patients (<65 years). Results: The data from 65 younger and 13 older patients followed up for a median period of 8.5 years were available. At diagnosis, recurrent infections represented the only clinical manifestation in 61% and 69% of younger and older patients, respectively. The incidence of autoimmune diseases was higher in elderly patients compared with younger ones (30 vs. 18%, respectively). During the follow-up, the incidence of autoimmune disorders and enteropathy increased in the younger patients whereas neoplasia became the most prevalent complication in the elderly (38%). All patients received a replacement therapy with immunoglobulin, with good compliance. Conclusion: CVID occurrence in elderly patients is rarely described; therefore, the clinical characteristics are not completely known. In our series, neoplasia became the most prevalent complication in the elderly during the follow-up. In elderly patients, 20% SCIg was as safe as in the younger ones, with good compliance. A genetic analysis is important to confirm the diagnosis, identify specific presentations in the different ages, clarify the prognosis and guide the treatment. Future clinical research in this field may potentially help to guide their care.
Impact of Proton Pump Inhibitors and Histamine-2-Receptor Antagonists on Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Immunotherapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rizzo Alessandro , Cusmai Antonio , Giovannelli Francesco , Acquafredda Silvana , Rinaldi Lucia , Misino Andrea , Montagna Elisabetta Sara , Ungaro Valentina , Lorusso Mariagrazia , Palmiotti Gennaro
Published: March 2022

(1) Background: In recent years, immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment landscape of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), representing a therapeutic breakthrough in this field. Antacid agents such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine-2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) are commonly prescribed for extended periods in NSCLC patients, and these drugs have the potential to modify the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). (2) Materials and Methods: Herein, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the impact of PPIs and H2RAs on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) among patients receiving immunotherapy for metastatic NSCLC. Effect measures for OS were Hazard Ratios (HRs) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs), which were extracted from available studies. Forest plots were used to assess HRs to describe the relationship between treatment and OS in the specified cohorts of patients. (3) Results: Six studies were included in the analysis, involving 2267 patients. The pooled HRs for OS and PFS were 1.4 (95% CI, 1.25–1.58) and 1.29 (95% CI, 1.17–1.43), respectively, suggesting that PPIs and H2RAs administration was negatively associated with PFS and OS. (4) Conclusion: Concomitant antacid use could modify the activity of ICIs in NSCLC patients.
Ferric Carboxymaltose in the Treatment of Iron-Deficiency Anaemia in Paediatric Patients with Anastomotic Ulcers
Authors: Udina Chiara , Lanzetta Maria Andrea , Celsi Fulvio , Barbi Egidio , Gortani Giulia , Bramuzzo Matteo , Di Leo Grazia
Published: March 2022

Objectives: The aim of this paper is to describe a case series of paediatric patients affected by anastomotic ulcers (AU), a late complication of bowel resection in infancy, focusing on the treatment of iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA) with ferric carboxymaltose (FC). Methods: Patients with a diagnosis of AU, treated at the Paediatric Department of the Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo” from February 2012 to December 2020 were included. Haemoglobin (Hb) values, IDA related symptoms, the need for blood transfusions, for oral or intravenous (iv) iron supplementation and for surgical resections were compared before and after treatment with FC. Adverse effects of FC were recorded. Results: Ten patients with an established diagnosis of AU were identified; eight (8 out of 10) received at least one administration of FC. Lower and higher Hb values increased significantly after treatment (4.9 g/dL vs. 8.2 g/dL, p = 0.0003; 9.9 g/dL vs. 13.5 g/dL, p = 0.0008 respectively), with a significant reduction of the need for blood transfusions (p = 0.0051) and for oral and iv iron supplementation. While receiving standard therapies, seven patients (7 out of 8) complained of asthenia; this symptom resolved in all cases after FC administration. Before FC treatment, two patients (2 out of 8) required surgical resection of AU, with a recurrence of anaemia after a few weeks; after at least one FC infusion, no children needed further bowel resection for IDA. FC caused mild asymptomatic hypophosphatemia in one case. Conclusion: FC appears to be effective and safe in the paediatric population for the treatment of IDA resulting from AU.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Perry Tanya , Brown Tyler , Misfeldt Andrew , Lehenbauer David , Cooper David S.
Published: March 2022

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is a key therapy in the management of patients with severe cardiac disease or respiratory failure. There are two major forms of MCS commonly employed in the pediatric population—extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and ventricular assist device (VAD). These modalities have overlapping but distinct roles in the management of pediatric patients with severe cardiopulmonary compromise. The use of ECMO to provide circulatory support arose from the development of the first membrane oxygenator by George Clowes in 1957, and subsequent incorporation into pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) by Dorson and colleagues. The first successful application of ECMO in children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery was reported by Baffes et al. in 1970. For the ensuing nearly two decades, ECMO was performed sparingly and only in specialized centers with varying degrees of success. The formation of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) in 1989 allowed for the collation of ECMO-related data across multiple centers for the first time. This facilitated development of consensus guidelines for the use of ECMO in various populations. Coupled with improving ECMO technology, these advances resulted in significant improvements in ECMO utilization, morbidity, and mortality. This article will review the use of ECMO in children with congenital heart disease.
Volumetric Evaluation of Voids and Gaps of Different Calcium-Silicate Based Materials Used in Furcal Perforations: A Micro-CT Study
Authors: Toia Cassia Cestari , Teixeira Fabricio Batista , Cucco Carolina , Valera Marcia Carneiro , Cavalcanti Bruno Neves
Published: March 2022

This study aimed at evaluating volumetrically gaps and voids of calcium-silicate based materials of different generations and handling properties (BC—Endosequence BC RRM-Fast Set Condensable Putty, MTA—ProRoot MTA, and BIO—Biodentine) in simulated furcal perforations in an ex vivo setup by microcomputed tomography (Micro-CT) analysis. Thirty-six extracted human mandibular molars with sound furcation areas were selected. Standardized perforations were created in the furcation area of the pulp chamber using #4 diamond burs. The specimens were randomly assigned to three groups (BC, MTA and BIO; n = 12). Samples were then scanned (SkyScan 1172; Bruker-microCT, Kontich, Belgium), and three-dimensional (3D) images reconstructed. The relative volume of gaps (VG%) and voids (VV%) present on each material was calculated. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s HSD test (p < 0.05). Mean VG% for BC, MTA, and BIO groups were, respectively, 0.513%, 1.128%, 1.460%, with BC presenting statistically (p < 0.05) fewer gaps formation than the other groups. Mean VV% were, respectively, 0.018%, 0.037%, and 0.065%. The was no statistical difference regarding VV%. There were no gap-free and void-free samples. BC group had the lowest VG% among the groups with a significant statistical difference (p < 0.05).
Characterization of Buritirana (Mauritiella armata) Fruits from the Brazilian Cerrado: Biometric and Physicochemical Attributes, Chemical Composition and Antioxidant and Antibacterial Potential
Authors: de Souza Florisvaldo Gama , de Araújo Fábio Fernandes , Orlando Eduardo Adilson , Rodrigues Fernando Morais , Chávez Davy William Hidalgo , Pallone Juliana Azevedo Lima , Neri-Numa Iramaia Angélica , Sawaya Alexandra Christine Helena Frankland , Pastore Glaucia Maria
Published: March 2022

The buritirana is a little-explored species of the Arecaceae family. The biometric and physicochemical characteristics, nutritional and chemical composition and antioxidant and antibacterial potential of the buritirana fruit fractions were evaluated here for the first time. The fruits presented an oblong shape. The pulp represented 16.58% of the whole-fruit weight (10.07 g). The moisture, ash and soluble fiber contents were similar for the whole fraction without seed (WS) and pulp. Although the total carbohydrate content was the same for seed and peel (23.24 g·100 g−1), the seed showed higher protein and insoluble fiber contents. Except for glucose (1256.63 mg·100 g−1), the seed showed the highest concentrations of mono-, di- and oligosaccharides. Mineral content ranged from 0.43 to 800 mg·100 g−1 in all fractions. The peel fraction showed the highest content of vitamin C. The physicochemical results indicate the pulp and WS fraction have potential for the production of fruit-derived food products. Protocatechuic and quinic acids and epicatechin/catechin were found in all fractions. The assay antioxidant capacity DPPH, phenolic content and total flavonoids were higher in the pulp; TEAC and ORACHF values were lower in the seed. Volatile organic compounds were not identified, and the fractions did not show antibacterial activity.
Regional Variation of Chemical Characteristics in Young Marselan (Vitis vinifera L.) Red Wines from Five Regions of China
Authors: Lan Yibin , Liu Min , Zhang Xinke , Li Siyu , Shi Ying , Duan Changqing
Published: March 2022

The environmental conditions of wine regions determine the flavor characteristics of wine. The characterization of the chemical composition and sensory profiles of young Marselan wines from five wine-producing regions in China was investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (MS), high-performance liquid chromatography–triple-quadrupole MS/MS and descriptive analysis. Young Marselan wines can be successful discriminated based on concentrations of volatile compounds, but not phenolic compounds, by orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis according to regions. Compared to Jiaodong Peninsula (JDP) and Bohai Bay (BHB) regions, there were relatively lower average concentrations of varietal volatiles (mainly including β-citronellol, geraniol, and (E)-β-damasenone) and several fermentation aroma compounds (including isoamyl acetate, octanoic acid, decanoic acid, ethyl decanoate, etc.) but higher levels of acetic acid in Xinjiang (XJ), Loess Plateau (LP), and Huaizhuo Basin (HZB) regions, which were related to their characteristic environmental conditions. Marselan wines from HZB, LP, and XJ regions were characterized by lower L values and higher a and Cab values. Marselan wines from XJ were discriminated from the wines from other regions due to their higher concentrations of several flavonols. Sensory analysis indicated that Marselan wines from HZB region were characterized by relatively low intensities of floral and fruity aromas compared to other regions.
Soy Protein Isolate/Sodium Alginate Microparticles under Different pH Conditions: Formation Mechanism and Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Cao Jia , Tong Xiaohong , Wang Mengmeng , Tian Tian , Yang Sai , Sun Mingyue , Lyu Bo , Cao Xinru , Wang Huan , Jiang Lianzhou
Published: March 2022

The effects of sodium alginate (SA) and pH value on the formation, structural properties, microscopic morphology, and physicochemical properties of soybean protein isolate (SPI)/SA microparticles were investigated. The results of ζ-potential and free sulfhydryl (SH) content showed electrostatic interactions between SPI and SA, which promoted the conversion of free SH into disulfide bonds within the protein. The surface hydrophobicity, fluorescence spectra, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy data suggested that the secondary structure and microenvironment of the internal hydrophobic groups of the protein in the SPI/SA microparticles were changed. Compared with SPI microparticles, the surface of SPI/SA microparticles was smoother, the degree of collapse was reduced, and the thermal stability was improved. In addition, under the condition of pH 9.0, the average particle size of SPI/SA microparticles was only 15.92 ± 0.66 μm, and the distribution was uniform. Rheological tests indicated that SA significantly increased the apparent viscosity of SPI/SA microparticles at pH 9.0. The maximum protein solubility (67.32%), foaming ability (91.53 ± 1.12%), and emulsion activity (200.29 ± 3.38 m2/g) of SPI/SA microparticles occurred at pH 9.0. The application of SPI/SA microparticles as ingredients in high-protein foods is expected to be of great significance in the food industry.
Quantitation of Water Addition in Octopus Using Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR): Development of a Rapid and Non-Destructive Food Analysis Method
Authors: Teixeira Bárbara , Vieira Helena , Martins Sandra , Mendes Rogério
Published: March 2022

A rapid and non-destructive method based in time domain reflectometry analysis (TDR), which detects and quantifies the water content in the muscle, was developed for the control of abusive water addition to octopus. Common octopus samples were immersed in freshwater for different periods (0.5–32 h) to give a wide range of moisture contents, representing different commercial conditions. Control and water-added octopus were analyzed with a TDR sensor, and data correlated with moisture content were used for calibration and method validation. A maximum limit of moisture content of 85.2 g/100 g in octopus is proposed for conformity assessment, unless the label indicates that water (>5%) was added. Calibration results showed that TDR analysis can discriminate control and water-added octopus, especially for octopus immersed for longer periods (32 h). In addition, moisture content can be quantified in octopus using only TDR analysis (between 80 and 90 g/100 g; RMSE = 1.1%). TDR data and correlation with moisture content show that this non-destructive methodology can be used by the industry and quality control inspections for assessment of octopus quality and to verify compliance with legislation, promoting fair trade practices, and further contributing to a sustainable use of resources.
Promising New Material for Food Packaging: An Active and Intelligent Carrageenan Film with Natural Jaboticaba Additive
Authors: Avila Luisa Bataglin , Barreto Elis Regina Correa , Moraes Caroline Costa , Morais Marcilio Machado , Rosa Gabriela Silveira da
Published: March 2022

This research focused on the development of active and intelligent films based on a carrageenan biopolymer incorporated with jaboticaba peels extract (JPE). The bioactive extract was obtained by maceration extraction and showed high concentrations of total phenolic content (TP), total anthocyanin (TA), cyanidin-3-glucoside (Cn-3-Glu), antioxidant activity (AA), and microbial inhibition (MI) against E. coli, being promising for use as a natural additive in food packaging. The carrageenan films were produced using the casting technique, incorporating different concentrations of JPE, and characterized. The results of the thickness and Young’s modulus of the film increased in the films supplemented with JPE and the addition of the extract showed a decrease in elongation capacity and tensile strength, in water vapor permeability, and a lower rate of swelling in the water. In addition, the incorporation of JPE into the polymeric matrix promotes a change in the color of the films when compared to the control film and improves the opacity property. This is a positive effect as the material has a UV-vis light barrier which is interesting for food packaging. The increase in the active potential of the films was directly proportional to the concentration of JPE. The films results showed visible changes from purple to brown when in contact with different pH, which means that films have an intelligent potential. Accordingly, this novel carrageenan based-film incorporated with JPE could be a great strategy to add natural additives into packaging material to obtain an active potential and also an indicator for monitoring food in intelligent packaging.
Preliminary Investigation of Linum usitatissimum Mucilage-Based Hydrogel as Possible Substitute to Synthetic Polymer-Based Hydrogels for Sustained Release Oral Drug Delivery
Authors: Mahmood Arshad , Erum Alia , Mumtaz Sophia , Tulain Ume Ruqia , Malik Nadia Shamshad , Alqahtani Mohammed S.
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of Linum usitatissimum mucilage, a natural polymer, in developing a sustained release hydrogel for orally delivered drugs that require frequent dosing. For this purpose, nicorandil (a model drug)-loaded hydrogels with various feed ratios of Linum usitatissimum mucilage, acrylamide (monomer) and methylene bis-acrylamide (crosslinker) were prepared. The newly synthesized hydrogel formulations were probed fundamentally with respect to swelling behaviour, solvent penetration, and the release of the drug from the hydrogels. Later, the selected formulations were further characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The swelling coefficient demonstrated a linear relation with the polymer ratio; however, an inverse behaviour in the case of monomer and crosslinker was observed. The drug release studies, performed at pH 1.2 and 4.5 and considering the dynamic environment of GIT, demonstrated that all formulations followed the Korsmeyer–Peppas model, displaying a slow drug release via diffusion and polymer erosion. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful grafting of acrylamide on linseed mucilage. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy revealed a clear surface morphology with folds and pinholes in the hydrogel. Therefore, based upon the in-vitro outcomes, it can be concluded that a promising sustained release hydrogel can be prepared from natural polymer, Linum usitatissimum mucilage, offering many-fold benefits over the conventional synthetic polymers for oral delivery of drugs.
Ultrasound Viscoelastic Properties of Biomass Polysaccharide Hydrogels as Evaluated by Rheometer Equipped with Sono-Device
Authors: Noguchi Sarara , Kobayashi Takaomi
Published: March 2022

A viscoelastic rheometer was equipped with a sono-device and a water bath to enable measurement of storage moduli G′ and loss moduli G″ of biomass polysaccharide hydrogels such as Kanten agarose, κ-carrageenan, and konjac glucomannan under ultrasound (US) exposure. The action of low power of 43 kHz US on their hydrogels significantly decreased G′ of Kanten agarose and carrageenan after a few seconds of US exposure 0.1% strain. When US with 20 W output power was exposed under mechanical strain at 0.1%, lower values were obtained cyclically for 3 min US intervals. The values then reverted to the original moduli values when US was stopped in cases of Kanten agarose and carrageenan hydrogels. As G″ values were increased during US operation, the anhydro-L-galactose segments in their hydrogels were unable to relax the external US forces within the gel sufficiently, thereby leading to gel structure collapse at a higher strain percentage. These results suggest that US exposure induced deformational change in the hydrogel structure formed by hydrogen-bonded cross-links. However, US deformation was less in the case of deacetylated cross-linkage in konjac glucomannan hydrogel.
Development of the Japanese Version of the Infertility Stigma Scale: Examination of Its Reliability and Validity
Authors: Yokota Rie , Okada Hiroko , Okuhara Tsuyoshi , Goto Eiko , Furukawa Emi , Shirabe Ritsuko , Sakakibara Keiko , Kiuchi Takahiro
Published: March 2022

The stigma of infertility negatively affects health, resulting in mental distress and poor quality of life. An appropriate scale is essential to examine the stigma experienced by infertile women and provide adequate interventions. Therefore, we developed a Japanese version of the Infertility Stigma Scale (ISS). After examining the content validity of this scale, we conducted an online survey of women undergoing fertility treatment to test the scale’s structural validity, internal consistency, intra-rater reliability, known-groups validity, convergent validity, and discriminant validity. A total of 254 participants were included in the analysis. The results of confirmatory factor analysis of four factors based on the original scale revealed the optimal fit. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.95 for the total score. Concerning test–retest analysis, the total score of the ISS and subscale had a high Spearman correlation coefficient (ρ = 0.61–0.88, p < 0.001). For convergent validity, the association between the ISS and social support, self-esteem, and family functioning was significantly negatively correlated. The results of the multitrait scaling analysis scale showed that correlations of all items exceeded 0.40, and scaling errors (7/81, 8.6%) were few. The Japanese version of the ISS was confirmed to have acceptable reliability and validity.
Improvement of Phytopharmaceutical and Alkaloid Production in Periwinkle Plants by Endophyte and Abiotic Elicitors
Authors: Farouk Saad , AL-Huqail Arwa Abdulkreem , El-Gamal Seham M. A.
Published: March 2022

Periwinkle plant represents a major source of immensely vital terpenoid indole alkaloids and natural antioxidants which are widely used in cancer chemotherapy. A pot experiment was done to evaluate the role of two periwinkle endophytes (Streptomyces sp. and Bacillus sp.) with or without abiotic elicitors (aluminum chloride, tryptophan, and chitosan) on plant biomass, physio-biochemical attributes, phytopharmaceutical constituents, and alkaloid production. Inoculation with endophyte microbes significantly increased plant growth, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, carotenoids, ascorbic acid, and alkaloid yield. It also decreased oxidative biomarkers (hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde) and had no significant effects on flavonoids and anthocyanin. In this regard, Streptomyces sp. was more effective than Bacillus sp. Foliar spraying with chitosan significantly increased plant growth, chlorophyll, ions, antioxidant capacity, phytopharmaceutical constituents (total soluble phenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanin), and alkaloid yield, associated with a decline in oxidative biomarkers. Conversely, aluminum chloride application generally increased oxidative biomarkers, which was associated with a decreasing effect on plant growth, chlorophyll, and ions. Application of either tryptophan or chitosan with endophyte microbes increased plant growth, chlorophyll, ions, antioxidants, and alkaloid; meanwhile, it decreased oxidative biomarkers. On the contrary, aluminum chloride with endophytes evoked oxidative damage that was associated with a reduction in plant growth, chlorophyll, ions, and phytopharmaceutical constituents. The current study provides a proof-of-concept of the use of the endophyte Streptomyces sp. with chitosan for enhancing periwinkle plant biomass, phytopharmaceuticals accumulation, and alkaloid production.
An Integrated Management of Vegetable Agro-Biodiversity: A Case Study in the Puglia Region (Italy) on the Artichoke Landrace ‘Carciofo di Lucera’
Authors: Signore Angelo , Di Giovine Francesco , Morgese Anita , Sonnante Gabriella , Santamaria Pietro
Published: March 2022

The agro-biodiversity of vegetables is threatened, posing major concerns for the future of landraces, which are of fundamental importance both for food safety and for assuring an income to small-scale farmers. To counteract such a trend, the Puglia region (southern Italy) set up a plan to recover, characterize and preserve the resources at risk of genetic erosion. In our paper, we present a case study regarding an artichoke landrace, the ‘Carciofo di Lucera’ variety, that encompasses all activities foreseen in the Puglia region’s plan which is the result of the multi-actor project “BiodiverSO”. Such a project allowed us to recover and characterize crop genetic resources and to pave the way for further actions to preserve and valorize the agro-biodiversity of local vegetables that are still present in the Puglia region. Furthermore, we collected some evidence that allowed us to backdate the origin of artichoke cultivation in the Puglia region by about two centuries and, most important of all, to recover some populations of ‘Carciofo di Lucera’. These preliminary phases were followed by the characterization of this local variety, both from the morphological and the molecular point of view, so that we can discriminate this landrace from other artichoke varieties more accurately. Eventually, we collected all the information in electronic databases and data sheets, thus providing a tool for the public administration which will be useful in the in situ conservation phase.
An Analysis of the Effects of Large Wildfires on the Hydrology of Three Small Catchments in Central Chile Using Tritium-Based Measurements and Hydrological Metrics
Authors: Balocchi Francisco , Rivera Diego , Arumi José Luis , Morgenstern Uwe , White Donald A. , Silberstein Richard P. , Ramírez de Arellano Pablo
Published: March 2022

Wildfires are an important disturbance affecting catchments’ soil and hydrological processes within. Wildfires are predicted to increase in both frequency and severity under climate change. Here, we present measurements of tritium (3H) in surface water of three streams before and after the ‘las Máquinas’ megafire of January 2017 in central Chile and streamflow metrics. Mean transit times (MTTs) of water were calculated in three coastal catchments with the Mediterranean climate type, covered by native forest, a mixture of native forest and Pinus radiata D. Don, and P. radiata. Lumped parameter models (LPMs) were used to obtain MTTs. Tritium activities from 2012 to 2018 ranged from 0.597 to 0.927 Tritium Units (TU), with the lowest TU activity in 2018. These 3H concentrations indicated water ages from 5 to 30 years. Following the fire, peak flows and baseflow have increased in two catchments but decreased in the third. Even though we have seen changes in the hydrological responses within the three catchments, pre- and post-fire MTT values were not significantly different. Therefore, there is no conclusive evidence of hydrological changes at the groundwater level due to wildfire at this early stage. However, since the MTT ranges from 5 to 30 years, it is likely that more time is required for the changes in the hydrograph to be clearly reflected in the tritium signal even though there are noticeable changes in streamflow metrics such as runoff and baseflow. Within the following years from this study, a sampling schedule to continue to investigate both the long-term drought and the effect of wildfire on these catchments will be maintained.
A Case Series of Concomitant Cardiac Electrical Disease among Takotsubo Syndrome Patients and Literature Review
Authors: El-Battrawy Ibrahim , Erath Julia W. , Vamos Mate , Aweimer Assem , Mügge Andreas , Lang Siegfried , Ansari Uzair , Gietzen Thorsten , Akin Ibrahim
Published: March 2022

The pathophysiology of Takotsubo Syndrome (TTS) is not completely understood and the trigger of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in TTS is not clear either. We therefore sought to find an association between TTS and primary electrical diseases. A total of 148 TTS patients were analyzed between 2003 and 2017 in a bi-centric manner. Additionally, a literature review was performed. The patients were included in an ongoing retrospective cohort database. The coexistence of TTS and primary electrical diseases was confirmed in five cases as the following: catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT, 18-year-old female) (n = 1), LQTS 1 (72-year-old female and 65-year-old female) (n = 2), LQTS 2 (17-year-old female) (n = 1), and LQTS in the absence of mutations (22-year-old female). Four patients suffered from malignant tachyarrhythmia and recurrent syncope after TTS. Except for the CPVT patient and one LQTS 1 patient, all other cases underwent subcutaneous ICD implantation. An event recorder of the CPVT patient after starting beta-blocker did not detect arrhythmias. The diagnosis of primary electrical disease was in 80% of cases unmasked on a TTS event. This diagnosis triggered a family clinical and genetic screening confirming the diagnosis of primary electrical disease. A subsequent literature review identified five cases as the following: a congenital atrioventricular block (n = 1), a Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome (n = 1), and a family LQTS in the absence of a mutation (n = 2), LQTS 2 (n = 1). A primary electrical disease should be suspected in young and old TTS patients with a family history of sudden cardiac death. In suspected cases, e.g., ongoing QT interval prolongation, despite recovery of left ventricular ejection fraction a family screening is recommended.
Artificial Intelligence as a Tool to Study the 3D Skeletal Architecture in Newly Settled Coral Recruits: Insights into the Effects of Ocean Acidification on Coral Biomineralization
Authors: Scucchia Federica , Sauer Katrein , Zaslansky Paul , Mass Tali
Published: March 2022

Understanding the formation of the coral skeleton has been a common subject uniting various marine and materials study fields. Two main regions dominate coral skeleton growth: Rapid Accretion Deposits (RADs) and Thickening Deposits (TDs). These have been extensively characterized at the 2D level, but their 3D characteristics are still poorly described. Here, we present an innovative approach to combine synchrotron phase contrast-enhanced microCT (PCE-CT) with artificial intelligence (AI) to explore the 3D architecture of RADs and TDs within the coral skeleton. As a reference study system, we used recruits of the stony coral Stylophora pistillata from the Red Sea, grown under both natural and simulated ocean acidification conditions. We thus studied the recruit’s skeleton under both regular and morphologically-altered acidic conditions. By imaging the corals with PCE-CT, we revealed the interwoven morphologies of RADs and TDs. Deep-learning neural networks were invoked to explore AI segmentation of these regions, to overcome limitations of common segmentation techniques. This analysis yielded highly-detailed 3D information about the RAD’s and TD’s architecture. Our results demonstrate how AI can be used as a powerful tool to obtain 3D data essential for studying coral biomineralization and for exploring the effects of environmental change on coral growth.
Low-Cost Heaving Single-Buoy Wave-Energy Point Absorber Optimization for Sardinia West Coast
Authors: Rava Marcello , Dafnakis Panagiotis , Martini Vittorio , Giorgi Giuseppe , Orlando Vincenzo , Mattiazzo Giuliana , Bracco Giovanni , Gulisano Andrea
Published: March 2022

This work presents the Water Energy Point Absorber (WEPA), which is a heaving single-buoy point absorber optimized for a specific site off the west coast of Sardinia Island. The aim of the study is to present the optimization process undertaken to identify the best configuration in terms of performance and cost. The optimization is carried out thanks to a simulation tool developed in Matlab-Simulink environment and verified through to the commercial software Orcaflex. Simulations are performed in the time domain with the installation site’s waves as input. The hydrodynamics parameters are computed thanks to the commercial software Ansys Aqwa and given to the model as input. The yearly energy production is computed as output for each configuration. Several parametric analyses are performed to identify the optimal Power Take Off (PTO) and buoy size. Among the main findings, it shall be mentioned that the PTO-rated torque has a strong influence on the energy production, higher PTO-rated torque proved to have better performance. The optimal hull size is strictly related to the incoming waves, and for the given site the smaller hulls are performing better than larger ones. The hull height, hull mass and hull draft have little impact on productivity. Finally, a comprehensive techno–economic analysis is performed, showing that the best configuration can be identified only after a detailed feasibility study and rigorous cost analysis.