bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auricular Acupuncture for Preoperative Anxiety—Protocol of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Dietzel Joanna , Cummings Mike , Hua Kevin , Hahnenkamp Klaus , Brinkhaus Benno , Usichenko Taras I.
Published: November 2020

Background: Preoperative anxiety causes profound psychological and physiological reactions that may lead to a worse postoperative recovery, higher intensity of acute and persistent postsurgical pain and impaired quality of life in the postoperative period. Previous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggest that auricular acupuncture (AA) is safe and effective in the treatment of preoperative anxiety; however there is a lack of systematic evidence on this topic. Therefore, this protocol was developed following the PRISMA guidelines to adequately evaluate the existing literature regarding the value of AA for the reduction in anxiety in patients in a preoperative setting, compared to other forms of acupuncture, pharmacological, or no control interventions and measured with questionnaires regarding anxiety and fear. Methods: The following databases will be searched: MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), ISI Web of Science, and Scopus Database. RCTs will be included if an abstract is available in English. Data collection and analysis will be conducted by two reviewers independently. Quality and risk assessment of included studies will be done using the Cochrane 5.1.0 handbook criteria and meta-analysis of effectiveness and symptom scores will be conducted using the statistical software RevMan V.5.3. Conclusions: This systematic review will evaluate the efficacy and safety of AA for preoperative anxiety. Since all data used in this systematic review and meta-analysis have been published, this review does not require ethical approval. The results may be published in a peer-reviewed journal or be presented in relevant conferences. Registration number: PROSPERO ID CRD42020.
A Comprehensive Membrane Process for Preparing Lithium Carbonate from High Mg/Li Brine
Authors: Xu Wenhua , Liu Dongfu , He Lihua , Zhao Zhongwei
Published: November 2020

The preparation of Li2CO3 from brine with a high mass ratio of Mg/Li is a worldwide technology problem. Membrane separation is considered as a green and efficient method. In this paper, a comprehensive Li2CO3 preparation process, which involves electrochemical intercalation-deintercalation, nanofiltration, reverse osmosis, evaporation, and precipitation, was constructed. Concretely, the electrochemical intercalation-deintercalation method shows excellent separation performance of lithium and magnesium, and the mass ratio of Mg/Li decreased from the initial 58.5 in the brine to 0.93 in the obtained lithium-containing anolyte. Subsequently, the purification and concentration are performed based on nanofiltration and reverse osmosis technologies, which remove mass magnesium and enrich lithium, respectively. After further evaporation and purification, industrial-grade Li2CO3 can be prepared directly. The direct recovery of lithium from the high Mg/Li brine to the production of Li2CO3 can reach 68.7%, considering that most of the solutions are cycled in the system, the total recovery of lithium will be greater than 85%. In general, this new integrated lithium extraction system provides a new perspective for preparing lithium carbonate from high Mg/Li brine.
Dynamic Modeling Using Artificial Neural Network of Bacillus Velezensis Broth Cross-Flow Microfiltration Enhanced by Air-Sparging and Turbulence Promoter
Authors: Jokić Aleksandar , Pajčin Ivana , Grahovac Jovana , Lukić Nataša , Ikonić Bojana , Nikolić Nevenka , Vlajkov Vanja
Published: November 2020

Cross-flow microfiltration is a broadly accepted technique for separation of microbial biomass after the cultivation process. However, membrane fouling emerges as the main problem affecting permeate flux decline and separation process efficiency. Hydrodynamic methods, such as turbulence promoters and air sparging, were tested to improve permeate flux during microfiltration. In this study, a non-recurrent feed-forward artificial neural network (ANN) with one hidden layer was examined as a tool for microfiltration modeling using Bacillus velezensis cultivation broth as the feed mixture, while the Kenics static mixer and two-phase flow, as well as their combination, were used to improve permeate flux in microfiltration experiments. The results of this study have confirmed successful application of the ANN model for prediction of permeate flux during microfiltration of Bacillus velezensis cultivation broth with a coefficient of determination of 99.23% and absolute relative error less than 20% for over 95% of the predicted data. The optimal ANN topology was 5-13-1, trained by the Levenberg–Marquardt training algorithm and with hyperbolic sigmoid transfer function between the input and the hidden layer.
Palmitoylated mNeonGreen Protein as a Tool for Visualization and Uptake Studies of Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Wąchalska Magda , Rychłowski Michał , Grabowska Kinga , Kowal Kinga , Narajczyk Magdalena , Bieńkowska-Szewczyk Krystyna , Lipińska Andrea D.
Published: November 2020

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membranous nanoparticles released by cells as vital mediators of intercellular communication. As such, EVs have become an attractive target for pathogens and cancer cells, which can take control over their cargo composition, as well as their trafficking, shaping the pathogenesis. Despite almost four decades of research on EVs, the number of specific and efficient EV labeling methods is limited, and there is still no universal method for the visualization of their transport in living cells. Lipophilic dyes that non-specifically intercalate into the EVs membranes may diffuse to other membranes, leading to the misinterpretation of the results. Here, we propose a palmitoylated fluorescent mNeonGreen (palmNG) protein as an alternative to chemical dyes for EVs visualization. The Branchiostoma lanceolatum-derived mNeonGreen is a brighter, more stable, and less sensitive to laser-induced bleaching alternative to green fluorescent protein (GFP), which makes it a more potent tag in a variety of fluorescence-based techniques. A palmNG-expressing stable human melanoma cell line was generated using retrovirus gene transfer and cell sorting. This protein partially localizes to cellular membranes, and can be detected inside size-exclusion (SEC)-purified EVs. With the use of flow cytometry and fluorescent confocal microscopy, we performed qualitative and quantitative analyses of palmNG-EVs uptake in recipient human hepatoma cells, in comparison to PKH67-labeled vesicles. Our findings confirm that membrane-embedded mNeonGreen can be successfully applied as a tool in EVs transfer and uptake studies.
Improving Hydrogen Embrittlement Resistance of Hot-Stamped 1500 MPa Steel Parts That Have Undergone a Q&P Treatment by the Design of Retained Austenite and Martensite Matrix
Authors: Wang Zhou , Huang Mingxin
Published: November 2020

Hydrogen embrittlement is one of the largest obstacles against the commercialisation of ultra-high strength quenching and partitioning (Q&P) steels with ultimate tensile strength over 1500 MPa, including the hot stamped steel parts that have undergone a Q&P treatment. In this work, the influence of partitioning temperature on hydrogen embrittlement of ultra-high strength Q&P steels is studied by pre-charged tensile tests with both dog-bone and notched samples. It is found that hydrogen embrittlement resistance is enhanced by the higher partitioning temperature. Then, the hydrogen embrittlement mechanism is analysed in terms of hydrogen, retained austenite, and martensite matrix. Thermal desorption analysis (TDA) shows that the hydrogen trapping properties are similar in the Q&P steels, which cannot explain the enhancement of hydrogen embrittlement resistance. On the contrary, it is found that the relatively low retained austenite stability after the higher temperature partitioning ensures more sufficient TRIP effect before hydrogen-induced fracture. Additionally, dislocation recovery and solute carbon depletion at the higher partitioning temperature can reduce the flow stress of the martensite matrix, improving its intrinsic toughness and reducing its hydrogen sensitivity, both of which result in the higher hydrogen embrittlement resistance.
Machining Distortion Minimization of Monolithic Aircraft Parts Based on the Energy Principle
Authors: Fan Longxin , Tian Hui , Li Liang , Yang Yinfei , Zhou Nenggan , He Ning
Published: November 2020

Machining distortion is a recurring problem in the machining of monolithic aircraft parts. This paper aims to study the machining distortion minimization of monolithic aircraft parts. Firstly, the energy principle of machining distortion was analyzed. Then, a rapid prediction model of the final part distortion for beam parts was proposed based on the equivalent stress, and the initial bending strain energy contained in the final part was used to characterize the bending distortion risk of the final part. Numerical simulation and milling experiments verified the effectiveness of the proposed prediction model. The relative error between the experimental and calculated results does not exceed 26.5%. Finally, the influence of initial residual stress fluctuation, part geometry and the part location on part distortion was analyzed from the energy point of view. The obtained results indicated that the expected final part distortion can be minimized by adjusting these three factors.
Influence of Hot Deformation and Precipitates on the Recrystallization of Nb-V-Ti Free-Cutting Steel
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhao Xian-Ming , Dong Chun-Yu , Zhao Xiao-Yu
Published: November 2020

Nb, V, and Ti were added to free-cutting steel to improve its mechanical properties by means of precipitation strengthening and fine grain strengthening. The process parameters during the hot deformation of Nb-V-Ti free-cutting steel were studied at strain rates of 0.01–10 s−1 and temperatures of 850–1250 °C. The isothermal compression test results showed that the temperature rise at low deformation temperature and high strain rate has a great influence on the softening of the steel. The processing maps at strains of 0.3–0.6 were established based on a dynamic material model (DMM). When the strain was 0.6, the optimum hot-working window was at a temperature in the range of 1150–1250 °C and at a strain rate in the range of 0.01–0.1 s−1. The instable regions were mainly located at low temperature and high strain rate. The instable characteristics included the mixed grains around the MnS phase, flow localization, and intense deformation. In general, the existence of MnS leads to a decrease in the toughness of the steel. The MnS phase was easy to be broken when the compression tested at a lower temperature, e.g., 850 °C and at a higher strain rate, e.g., 10 s−1; its morphology changed from a long-rod shape to a discontinuous shape, and then, to a dot-like shape with the decrease in temperature from 1250 to 850 °C and the increase in strain rate from 0.01 to 10 s−1. The nucleation mechanism of this steel was grain boundary bulging. The size of fine (Nb,Ti) (C,N) precipitates is less than 10 nm, inhibiting austenite recrystallization and leading to austenite strengthening during hot deformation at 850 °C. Moreover, the dislocation motion and grain boundary migration were greatly inhibited by the Ti-rich(C,N) and MnS throughout the entire hot deformation process.
Untargeted Metabolomics and Polyamine Profiling in Serum before and after Surgery in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Lee Yu Ra , An Ki-Yong , Jeon Justin , Kim Nam Kyu , Lee Ji Won , Hong Jongki , Chung Bong Chul
Published: November 2020

Colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in Korea and globally. In this study, we aimed to characterize the differential serum metabolomic profiles between pre-operative and post-operative patients with colorectal cancer. To investigate the significant metabolites and metabolic pathways associated with colorectal cancer, we analyzed serum samples from 68 patients (aged 20–71, mean 57.57 years). Untargeted and targeted metabolomics profiling in patients with colorectal cancer were performed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Untargeted analysis identified differences in sphingolipid metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, and arginine and proline metabolism in pre- and post-operative patients with colorectal cancer. We then performed quantitative target profiling of polyamines, synthesized from arginine and proline metabolism, to identify potential polyamines that may serve as effective biomarkers for colorectal cancer. Results indicate a significantly reduced serum concentration of putrescine in post-operative patients compared to pre-operative patients. Our metabolomics approach provided insights into the physiological alterations in patients with colorectal cancer after surgery.
Effect of Expression of Human Glucosylceramidase 2 Isoforms on Lipid Profiles in COS-7 Cells
Authors: Jatooratthawichot Peeranat , Talabnin Chutima , Ngiwsara Lukana , Rustam Yepy Hardi , Svasti Jisnuson , Reid Gavin E. , Ketudat Cairns James R.
Published: November 2020

Glucosylceramide (GlcCer) is a major membrane lipid and the precursor of gangliosides. GlcCer is mainly degraded by two enzymes, lysosomal acid β-glucosidase (GBA) and nonlysosomal β-glucosidase (GBA2), which may have different isoforms because of alternative splicing. To understand which GBA2 isoforms are active and how they affect glycosphingolipid levels in cells, we expressed nine human GBA2 isoforms in COS-7 cells, confirmed their expression by qRT-PCR and Western blotting, and assayed their activity to hydrolyze 4-methylumbelliferyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (4MUG) in cell extracts. Human GBA2 isoform 1 showed high activity, while the other isoforms had activity similar to the background. Comparison of sphingolipid levels by ultra-high resolution/accurate mass spectrometry (UHRAMS) analysis showed that isoform 1 overexpression increased ceramide and decreased hexosylceramide levels. Comparison of ratios of glucosylceramides to the corresponding ceramides in the extracts indicated that GBA2 isoform 1 has broad specificity for the lipid component of glucosylceramide, suggesting that only one GBA2 isoform 1 is active and affects sphingolipid levels in the cell. Our study provides new insights into how increased breakdown of GlcCer affects cellular lipid metabolic networks.
Wireless Battery-Free Harmonic Communication System for Pressure Sensing
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Mondal Saikat , Deng Yiming , Chahal Premjeet
Published: November 2020

In this paper, an efficient passive wireless harmonic communication system is proposed for the real-time monitoring of the pressurized pipelines. A pressure sensor is fabricated using the additive manufacturing technique and a harmonic radio frequency (RF) tag is designed to operate at the fundamental frequency (fo) of 2 GHz that shifts the phase of the back reflected RF signal according to the applied pressure ranging from 0 to 20 psi. A power efficient phase modulation with virtually no losses is achieved using a hybrid coupler-based phase shifter that efficiently reflect back the incoming signal using an end coupled reactive impedance element/sensor. The phase delay introduced by the reactive element gets doubled with the second harmonic communication, which increases the sensitivity by a factor of two. The concept of harmonic backscattering is exploited to reduce the effects of multi-path interference and self jamming, as well as improving the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).
Electroosmotic Flow of Non-Newtonian Fluid in Porous Polymer Membrane at High Zeta Potentials
Authors: Deng Shuyan , Zeng Yukun , Li Mingying , Liang Cuixiang
Published: November 2020

To help in the efficient design of fluid flow in electroosmotic pumps, electroosmotic flow of non-Newtonian fluid through porous polymer membrane at high zeta potentials is studied by mainly evaluating the total flow rate at different physical parameters. Non-Newtonian fluid is represented by the power-law model and the porous polymer membrane is considered as arrays of straight cylindrical pores. The electroosmotic flow of non-Newtonian fluid through a single pore is studied by solving the complete Poisson–Boltzmann equation and the modified Cauchy momentum equation. Then assuming the pore size distribution on porous polymer membrane obeys Gaussian distribution, the performance of electroosmotic pump operating non-Newtonian fluid is evaluated by computing the total flow rate of electroosmotic flow through porous polymer membrane as a function of flow behavior index, geometric parameters of porous membrane, electrolyte concentration, applied voltage, and zeta potential. It is found that enhancing zeta potential and bulk concentration rather than the applied voltage can also significantly improve the total flow rate in porous polymer membrane, especially in the case of shear thinning fluid.
Mobile In-Ear Power Sensor for Jaw Joint Activity
Authors: Bouchard-Roy Jacob , Delnavaz Aidin , Voix Jérémie
Published: November 2020

In only a short time, in-ear wearables have gone from hearing aids to a host of electronic devices such as wireless earbuds and digital earplugs. To operate, these devices rely exclusively on batteries, which are not only cumbersome but known for several drawbacks. In this paper, the earcanal dynamic movements generated by jaw activity are evaluated as an alternative source of energy that could replace batteries. A mobile in-ear power sensor device capable of measuring jaw activity metrics is prototyped and tested on three test subjects. The test results are subsequently analyzed using a detection algorithm to detect the jaw activity based on the captured audio signals and to classify them into four main categories, namely chewing, swallowing, coughing and talking. The mean power associated with each category of activity is then calculated by using the pressure signals as measured by a water-inflated earplug subjected to earcanal dynamic movement. The results show that 3.8 mW of power, achieved mainly by the chewing movement, is readily available on average from within the earcanal.
Recent Advances in Microswimmers for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Bunea Ada-Ioana , Taboryski Rafael
Published: November 2020

Microswimmers are a rapidly developing research area attracting enormous attention because of their many potential applications with high societal value. A particularly promising target for cleverly engineered microswimmers is the field of biomedical applications, where many interesting examples have already been reported for e.g., cargo transport and drug delivery, artificial insemination, sensing, indirect manipulation of cells and other microscopic objects, imaging, and microsurgery. Pioneered only two decades ago, research studies on the use of microswimmers in biomedical applications are currently progressing at an incredibly fast pace. Given the recent nature of the research, there are currently no clinically approved microswimmer uses, and it is likely that several years will yet pass before any clinical uses can become a reality. Nevertheless, current research is laying the foundation for clinical translation, as more and more studies explore various strategies for developing biocompatible and biodegradable microswimmers fueled by in vivo-friendly means. The aim of this review is to provide a summary of the reported biomedical applications of microswimmers, with focus on the most recent advances. Finally, the main considerations and challenges for clinical translation and commercialization are discussed.
Identification of an Antiviral Compound from the Pandemic Response Box that Efficiently Inhibits SARS-CoV-2 Infection In Vitro
Authors: Holwerda Melle , V’kovski Philip , Wider Manon , Thiel Volker , Dijkman Ronald
Published: November 2020

With over 50 million currently confirmed cases worldwide, including more than 1.3 million deaths, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has a major impact on the economy and health care system. Currently, limited prophylactic or therapeutic intervention options are available against SARS-CoV-2. In this study, 400 compounds from the antimicrobial “pandemic response box” library were screened for inhibiting properties against SARS-CoV-2. An initial screen on Vero E6 cells identified five compounds that inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication. However, validation of the selected hits in a human lung cell line highlighted that only a single compound, namely Retro-2.1, efficiently inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication. Additional analysis revealed that the antiviral activity of Retro-2.1 occurs at a post-entry stage of the viral replication cycle. Combined, these data demonstrate that stringent in vitro screening of preselected compounds in multiple cell lines refines the rapid identification of new potential antiviral candidate drugs targeting SARS-CoV-2.
The Use of Mining Waste Materials for the Treatment of Acid and Alkaline Mine Wastewater
Authors: Retka Jacek , Rzepa Grzegorz , Bajda Tomasz , Drewniak Lukasz
Published: November 2020

The mining of metal ores generates both liquid and solid wastes, which are increasingly important to manage. In this paper, an attempt was made to use waste rocks produced in the mining of zinc and lead to neutralizing acid mine drainage and alkaline flotation wastewater. Waste rock is a quartz-feldspar rock of hydrothermal origin. It is composed of, besides quartz and potassium feldspar (orthoclase), phyllosilicates (chlorite and mica), and sulfides (chiefly pyrite). To determine its physicochemical parameters and their variability, acid mine water and flotation wastewater were monitored for 12 months. Acid mine drainage (AMD) is characterized by a low pH (~3), high zinc concentration (~750 mg·L−1), and high sulfate content (~6800 mg·L−1). On the other hand, the determinations made for flotation wastewater showed, among others, a pH of approximately 12 and ca. 780 mg·L−1 of sulfates. AMD and flotation wastewater neutralization by the waste rock was shown to be possible and efficient. However, in both cases, the final solution contained elevated concentrations of metals and sulfates. Premixing AMD with alkaline flotation wastewater in the first step and then neutralizing the obtained mixture with the waste rock was considered the best solution. The produced solution had a circumneutral pH. However, the obtained solution does not meet the legislative requirements but could be further treated by, for example, passive treatment systems. It is noteworthy that the proposed approach is low cost and does not require any chemical reagents.
Aroma Characteristics of Lavender Extract and Essential Oil from Lavandula angustifolia Mill.
Authors: Guo Xiangyang , Wang Pu
Published: November 2020

Lavender and its products have excellent flavor properties. However, most studies focus on the aroma profiles of lavender essential oil (LEO). The volatiles in lavender extracts (LEs), either in volatile compositions or their odor characteristics, have rarely been reported. In this study, the odor characteristics of LEs and LEO were comprehensively investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), coupled with sensory evaluation and principal chemical analysis (PCA). In addition, the extraction conditions of lavender extracts from inflorescences of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. were optimized. Under the optimal conditions of extraction, twice with 95% edible ethanol as the solvent, the LEs tended to contain the higher intensity of characteristic floral, herbal and clove-like odors as well as higher scores of overall assessment and higher amounts of linalool, linalool oxides I and II, linalyl acetate, lavandulyl acetate and total volatiles than LEO. PCA analysis showed that there were significant differences on the odor characteristics between LEO and LEs. The LEO, which was produced by steam distillation with a yield of 2.21%, had the lower intensity of floral, clove-like, medicine-like, pine-like and hay notes, a lower score of overall assessment and lower levels of linalool oxides I and II, linalyl acetate, lavandulyl acetate and total volatiles compared with LEs, whereas the relative contents of linalool and camphor in LEO were significantly higher than that in LEs. Furthermore, the earthy, green and watery odors were only found in LEO. Concerning the odor characteristics and volatile compositions, the LEs had better odor properties than LEO. These results provided a theoretical basis for the industrial preparation of lavender-related products.
Specific Non-Reducing Ends in Heparins from Different Animal Origins: Building Blocks Analysis Using Reductive Amination Tagging by Sulfanilic Acid
Authors: Mourier Pierre A. J.
Published: November 2020

Heparins are linear sulfated polysaccharides widely used as anticoagulant drugs. Their nonreducing-end (NRE) has been little investigated due to challenges in their characterization, but is known to be partly generated by enzymatic cleavage with heparanases, resulting in N-sulfated glucosamines at the NRE. Uronic NRE (specifically glucuronic acids) have been isolated from porcine heparin, with GlcA-GlcNS,3S,6S identified as a porcine-specific NRE marker. To further characterize NRE in heparinoids, a building block analysis involving exhaustive heparinase digestion and subsequent reductive amination with sulfanilic acid was performed. This study describes a new method for identifying heparin classical building blocks and novel NRE building blocks using strong anion exchange chromatography on AS11 columns for the assay, and ion-pair liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for building block identification. Porcine, ovine, and bovine intestine heparins were analyzed. Generally, NRE on these three heparins are highly sulfated moieties, particularly with 3-O sulfates, and the observed composition of the NRE is highly dependent on heparin origin. At the highest level of specificity, the isolated marker was only detected in porcine heparin. However, the proportion of glucosamines in the NRE and the proportion of glucuronic/iduronic configurations in the NRE uronic moieties greatly varied between heparin types.
Mucuna pruriens Administration Minimizes Neuroinflammation and Shows Anxiolytic, Antidepressant and Slimming Effects in Obese Rats
Authors: Tavares Renata leite , Vasconcelos Maria Helena Araújo de , Dutra Maria Letícia da Veiga , D’Oliveira Aline Barbosa , Lima Marcos dos Santos , Salvadori Mirian Graciela da Silva Stiebbe , Pereira Ramon de Alencar , Alves Adriano Francisco , Nascimento Yuri Mangueira do , Tavares Josean Fechine , Guzman-Quevedo Omar , Aquino Jailane de Souza
Published: November 2020

This study evaluated the effect of Mucuna pruriens (MP) administration on neuroinflammation and behavioral and murinometric parameters in obese rats. Proximate composition, oligosaccharide and phenolic compound profile of MP were determined. Wistar adult male rats were randomized into healthy (HG) and obese group (OG). The HG consumed a control chow diet while OG consumed a cafeteria diet for eight weeks. Then, they were subdivided into: Healthy (HG); Healthy with MP administration (HGMP); Obese (OG); Obese with MP administration (OGMP), with the consumption of the respective diets remaining for another eight weeks, in addition to gavage with MP extract to supplemented groups (750 mg/kg weight). MP presented a composition rich in proteins and phenolic compounds, especially catechin, in addition to 1-kestose and levodopa. Supplementation reduced food intake, body weight, and thoracic and abdominal circumferences in obese rats. MP showed anxiolytic and antidepressant effects and reduced morphological damage and expression of interleukin 6 in the hippocampus of obese rats. MP treatment showed satietogenic, slimming, anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, besides to minimizing hippocampal neuroinflammation in obese rats. Our results demonstrated the potential anti-obesity of MP which are probably related to the high content of bioactive compounds present in this plant extract.
Triglycerides as Novel Phase-Change Materials: A Review and Assessment of Their Thermal Properties
Authors: Ravotti Rebecca , Worlitschek Jörg , Pulham Colin R. , Stamatiou Anastasia
Published: November 2020

Latent Heat Storage (LHS) with Phase-Change Materials (PCMs) represents a high energy density storage technology which could be applied in a variety of applications such as waste heat recovery and integration of renewable energy technologies in energy systems. To increase the sustainability of these storage solutions, PCMs have to be developed with particular regard to bio-origin and biodegradability. Triglycerides represent an interesting class of esters as the main constituents of animal and vegetable fats, with attractive thermal properties. In order to be used as PCMs, the thermal behaviour of triglycerides has to be fully understood, as in some cases they have been reported to show polymorphism and supercooling. This study assesses the suitability of triglycerides as PCMs by reviewing the literature published so far on their behaviour and properties. In particular, melting points, enthalpies of fusion, polymorphism, thermal conductivities, heat capacities and thermal cycling stabilities are considered, with a focus on LHS and thermal energy storage applications. In addition, the efforts conducted regarding modelling and the prediction of melting points and enthalpies based on chemical structures are summarized and assessed.
Anti-Allergic Potential of Cinnamaldehyde via the Inhibitory Effect of Histidine Decarboxylase (HDC) Producing Klebsiella pneumonia
Authors: Badger-Emeka Lorina I. , Emeka Promise Madu , Thirugnanasambantham Krishnaraj , Ibrahim Hairul Islam M.
Published: November 2020

Allergy is an immunological disorder that develops in response to exposure to an allergen, and histamines mediate these effects via histidine decarboxylase (HDC) activity at the intracellular level. In the present study, we developed a 3D model of Klebsiella pneumoniae histidine decarboxylase (HDC) and analyzed the HDC inhibitory potential of cinnamaldehyde (CA) and subsequent anti-allergic potential using a bacterial and mammalian mast cell model. A computational and in vitro study using K. pneumonia revealed that CA binds to HDC nearby the pyridoxal-5′-phosphate (PLP) binding site and inhibited histamine synthesis in a bacterial model. Further study using a mammalian mast cell model also showed that CA decreased the levels of histamine in the stimulated RBL-2H3 cell line and attenuated the release of β-hexoseaminidase and cell degranulation. In addition, CA treatment also significantly suppressed the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 and the nitric oxide (NO) level in the stimulated mast cells. A gene expression and Western blotting study revealed that CA significantly downregulated the expressions of MAPKp38/ERK and its downstream pro-allergic mediators that are involved in the signaling pathway in mast cell cytokine synthesis. This study further confirms that CA has the potential to attenuate mast cell activation by inhibiting HDC and modifying the process of allergic disorders.
A Human–Computer Interface Replacing Mouse and Keyboard for Individuals with Limited Upper Limb Mobility
Authors: Gür Diyar , Schäfer Niklas , Kupnik Mario , Beckerle Philipp
Published: November 2020

People with physical disabilities in their upper extremities face serious issues in using classical input devices due to lacking movement possibilities and precision. This article suggests an alternative input concept and presents corresponding input devices. The proposed interface combines an inertial measurement unit and force sensing resistors, which can replace mouse and keyboard. Head motions are mapped to mouse pointer positions, while mouse button actions are triggered by contracting mastication muscles. The contact pressures of each fingertip are acquired to replace the conventional keyboard. To allow for complex text entry, the sensory concept is complemented by an ambiguous keyboard layout with ten keys. The related word prediction function provides disambiguation at word level. Haptic feedback is provided to users corresponding to their virtual keystrokes for enhanced closed-loop interactions. This alternative input system enables text input as well as the emulation of a two-button mouse.
Influence of Oxygen Flow Rate on Channel Width Dependent Electrical Properties of Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide Thin-Film Transistors
Authors: Wu Gwomei , Sahoo Anup K.
Published: November 2020

The effects of various oxygen flows on indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) based thin-film transistors (TFTs) with different channel width sizes have been investigated. The IGZO nano-films exhibited amorphous phase while the bandgap energy and sheet resistance increased with increasing oxygen flow rate. The electrical characteristics were evaluated with different sizes in channel width using fixed channel length. The distributions in terms of threshold voltage and current on–off level along the different channel width sizes have been discussed thoroughly. The minimum distribution of threshold voltage was observed at an oxygen flow rate of 1 sccm. The TFT electrical properties have been achieved, using an oxygen flow rate of 1 sccm with 500 µm channel width, the threshold voltage, ratio of on-current to off-current, sub-threshold swing voltage and field effect mobility to be 0.54 V, 106, 0.15 V/decade and 12.3 cm2/V·s, respectively. On the other hand, a larger channel width of 2000 µm could further improve the ratio of on-current to off-current and sub-threshold swing voltage to 107 and 0.11 V/decade. The optimized combination of oxygen flow and channel width showed improved electrical characteristics for TFT applications.
Poly (Vinyl Alcohol) Assisted Synthesis and Anti-Solvent Precipitation of Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Zhen , Lanier Olivia L. , Chauhan Anuj
Published: November 2020

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are commonly synthesized using the Turkevich method, but there are limitations on the maximum concentration of gold nanoparticles that can be achieved using this method (often < 1 mM (=0.34 mg/mL) gold precursor loading). Here, we report an inverse Turkevich method which significantly increases the concentration of gold nanoparticles (up to 5-fold) in the aqueous phase by introducing poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) to the synthesis system for stabilization. The aim of this study is to understand the effect of PVA and other synthesis parameters, such as trisodium citrate and tetrachloroauric acid concentration, with the goal of maximizing concentration while maintaining gold nanoparticle morphology, stability, and narrow size distribution. The size distribution of GNPs is investigated for a range of parameters by dynamic light scattering and electron microscopy, and ultraviolet-visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy is also utilized to explore the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). Further, the interaction between GNPs and PVA is investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. In addition to increasing the gold loading by varying synthesis parameters, we also develop a novel anti-solvent precipitation method for the PVA-coated GNPs, which enables continuous condensation and purification of GNPs by forming a gold/PVA nanocomposite.
Methylene Blue Dye Photocatalytic Degradation over Synthesised Fe3O4/AC/TiO2 Nano-Catalyst: Degradation and Reusability Studies
Authors: Moosavi Seyedehmaryam , Li Rita Yi Man , Lai Chin Wei , Yusof Yusliza , Gan Sinyee , Akbarzadeh Omid , Chowhury Zaira Zaman , Yue Xiao-Guang , Johan Mohd RafieBin
Published: November 2020

In this study, activated carbon (AC) from coconut shell, as a widely available agricultural waste, was synthesised in a simple one-step procedure and used to produce a magnetic Fe3O4/AC/TiO2 nano-catalyst for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under UV light. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that TiO2 nanoparticles, with an average particle size of 45 to 62 nm, covered the surface of the AC porous structure without a reunion of its structure, which according to the TGA results enhanced the stability of the photocatalyst at high temperatures. The photocatalytic activities of synthesised AC, commercial TiO2, Fe3O4/AC, and Fe3O4/AC/TiO2 were compared, with Fe3O4/AC/TiO2 (1:2) exhibiting the highest catalytic activity (98%). Furthermore, evaluation of the recovery and reusability of the photocatalysts after treatment revealed that seven treatment cycles were possible without a significant reduction in the removal efficiency.
Vitamin D Insufficiency May Account for Almost Nine of Ten COVID-19 Deaths: Time to Act. Comment on: “Vitamin D Deficiency and Outcome of COVID-19 Patients”. Nutrients 2020, 12, 2757
Authors: Brenner Hermann , Schöttker Ben
Published: November 2020

Evidence from observational studies is accumulating, suggesting that the majority of deaths due to SARS-CoV-2 infections are statistically attributable to vitamin D insufficiency and could potentially be prevented by vitamin D supplementation [...]
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Predictive Value of Fetal Growth Measurements by Ultrasonography at 22–24 Weeks: A Retrospective Cohort Study of Medical Records
Authors: Jin Danyao , Rich-Edwards Janet Wilson , Chen Chunyi , Huang Yue , Wang Yinping , Xu Xiangrong , Liu Jue , Liu Zheng , Gao Yaqing , Zou Siyu , Zhou Hong , Wang Haijun
Published: November 2020

Early intervention of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is effective in reducing pregnancy disorders. Fetal growth, measured by routine ultrasound scan a few weeks earlier before GDM diagnosis, might be useful to identify women at high risk of GDM. In the study, generalized estimating equations were applied to examine the associations between ultrasonic indicators of abnormal fetal growth at 22–24 weeks and the risk of subsequent GDM diagnosis. Of 44,179 deliveries, 8324 (18.8%) were diagnosed with GDM between 24 and 28 weeks. At 22–24 weeks, fetal head circumference (HC) < 10th, fetal femur length (FL) < 10th, and estimated fetal weight (EFW) < 10th percentile were associated with 13% to 17% increased risks of maternal GDM diagnosis. Small fetal size appeared to be especially predictive of GDM among women who were parous. Fetal growth in the highest decile of abdominal circumference (AC), HC, FL and EFW was not associated with risk of subsequent GDM. The observed mean difference in fetal size across gestation by GDM was small; there was less than 1 mm difference for AC, HC, and FL, and less than 5 g for EFW before 24 weeks. Despite similar mean fetal growth among women who were and were not later diagnosed with GDM, mothers with fetuses in the lowest decile of HC, FL and EFW at 22–24 weeks tended to have higher risk of GDM.
Preterm’s Nutrition from Hospital to Solid Foods: Are We Still Navigating by Sight?
Authors: Crippa Beatrice Letizia , Morniroli Daniela , Baldassarre Maria Elisabetta , Consales Alessandra , Vizzari Giulia , Colombo Lorenzo , Mosca Fabio , Giannì Maria Lorella
Published: November 2020

As preterm birth rates are globally increasing, together with research on preterms’ peculiar needs, neonatologists are still facing the challenge of how to properly feed them. The need to strike a balance between excessive catch-up growth and extrauterine growth retardation, both leading to adverse outcomes, is made even more difficult by the broad range of preterms’ needs. Although mother’s fresh milk is undoubtedly the best nourishment, its availability during hospital stay is often lower than recommended, and its fortification at discharge is still an open issue. Formula milks are available as an alternative to breast milk. However, choosing the right formula requires a thorough evaluation of the infant’s perinatal history and targets. Last but not least, adequate timing and initiation of weaning in premature babies are still a poorly explored matter. This narrative review aims at evaluating the multitude of issues to consider when feeding preterms in the three stages of their first life: in-hospital care, discharge, and, eventually, weaning. Given the current absence of internationally shared guidelines, understanding the potential pitfalls of preterms’ nutrition could help us trace the right path for the right preterm.
A Ten-Day Grape Seed Procyanidin Treatment Prevents Certain Ageing Processes in Female Rats over the Long Term
Authors: Grau-Bové Carme , Sierra-Cruz Marta , Miguéns-Gómez Alba , Rodríguez-Gallego Esther , Beltrán-Debón Raúl , Blay Mayte , Terra Ximena , Pinent Montserrat , Ardévol Anna
Published: November 2020

Adaptive homeostasis declines with age and this leads to, among other things, the appearance of chronic age-related pathologies such as cancer, neurodegeneration, osteoporosis, sarcopenia, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Grape seed-derived procyanidins (GSPE) have been shown to be effective against several of these pathologies, mainly in young animal models. Here we test their effectiveness in aged animals: 21-month-old female rats were treated with 500 mg GSPE/kg of body weight for ten days. Afterwards they were kept on a chow diet for eleven weeks. Food intake, body weight, metabolic plasma parameters and tumor incidence were measured. The GSPE administered to aged rats had an effect on food intake during the treatment and after eleven weeks continued to have an effect on visceral adiposity. It prevented pancreas dysfunction induced by ageing and maintained a higher glucagon/insulin ratio together with a lower decrease in ketonemia. It was very effective in preventing age-related tumor development. All in all, this study supports the positive effect of GSPE on preventing some age-related pathologies.
Low FODMAP Diet for Functional Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Quiescent Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Grammatikopoulou Maria G. , Goulis Dimitrios G. , Gkiouras Konstantinos , Nigdelis Meletios P. , Papageorgiou Stefanos T. , Papamitsou Theodora , Forbes Alastair , Bogdanos Dimitrios P.
Published: November 2020

A low FODMAP diet (LFD) has been hypothesized to relieve symptoms of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGD) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of the study was to systematically review the literature for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of the LFD in patients with IBD and FGD. Four databases were searched, but a meta-analysis was not performed due to methodological and outcomes heterogeneity. Four RCTs fulfilled the criteria, with three having some concerns in their risk of bias assessment. All interventions compared the LFDs against a “typical” or sham diet, spanning in duration from 21 days to 6 weeks. Quality of life was improved in two RCTs, while revealing inconsistent findings in the third trial, based on different assessment tools. The fecal assays revealed non-significant findings for most variables (fecal weight, pH, water content, gene count, and gut transit time) and inconsistent findings concerning stool frequency and short-chain fatty acids concentration. Levels of fecal calprotectin, CRP, or T-cell phenotype did not differ between intervention and comparator arms. Two RCTs reported a reduction in abdominal pain, while results concerning pain duration and bloating were inconsistent. In one trial, energy intake was considerably reduced among LFD participants. Regarding gut microbiota, no differences were noted. A considerable degree of methodological and outcome heterogeneity was observed, paired with results inconsistency. The available data are not sufficient to justify the claim that an LFD induces relief of FGD symptoms, although it may pave the way to a placebo response.
High Fat Rodent Models of Type 2 Diabetes: From Rodent to Human
Authors: Stott Nicole L. , Marino Joseph S.
Published: November 2020

Poor dietary habits contribute to increased incidences of obesity and related co-morbidities, such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). The biological, genetic, and pathological implications of T2D, are commonly investigated using animal models induced by a dietary intervention. In spite of significant research contributions, animal models have limitations regarding the translation to human pathology, which leads to questioning their clinical relevance. Important considerations include diet-specific effects on whole organism energy balance and glucose and insulin homeostasis, as well as tissue-specific changes in insulin and glucose tolerance. This review will examine the T2D-like phenotype in rodents resulting from common diet-induced models and their relevance to the human disease state. Emphasis will be placed on the disparity in percentages and type of dietary fat, the duration of intervention, and whole organism and tissue-specific changes in rodents. An evaluation of these models will help to identify a diet-induced rodent model with the greatest clinical relevance to the human T2D pathology. We propose that a 45% high-fat diet composed of approximately one-third saturated fats and two-thirds unsaturated fats may provide a diet composition that aligns closely to average Western diet macronutrient composition, and induces metabolic alterations mirrored by clinical populations.
The Protective Effects of Flavonoids in Cataract Formation through the Activation of Nrf2 and the Inhibition of MMP-9
Authors: Hilliard Aaron , Mendonca Patricia , Russell Tanya D. , Soliman Karam F. A.
Published: November 2020

Cataracts account for over half of global blindness. Cataracts formations occur mainly due to aging and to the direct insults of oxidative stress and inflammation to the eye lens. The nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcriptional factor for cell cytoprotection, is known as the master regulator of redox homeostasis. Nrf2 regulates nearly 600 genes involved in cellular protection against contributing factors of oxidative stress, including aging, disease, and inflammation. Nrf2 was reported to disrupt the oxidative stress that activates Nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) and proinflammatory cytokines. One of these cytokines is matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), which participates in the decomposition of lens epithelial cells (LECs) extracellular matrix and has been correlated with cataract development. Thus, during inflammatory processes, MMP production may be attenuated by the Nrf2 pathway or by the Nrf2 inhibition of NFκB pathway activation. Moreover, plant-based polyphenols have garnered attention due to their presumed safety and efficacy, nutritional, and antioxidant effects. Polyphenol compounds can activate Nrf2 and inhibit MMP-9. Therefore, this review focuses on discussing Nrf2’s role in oxidative stress and cataract formation, epigenetic effect in Nrf2 activity, and the association between Nrf2 and MMP-9 in cataract development. Moreover, we describe the protective role of flavonoids in cataract formation, targeting Nrf2 activation and MMP-9 synthesis inhibition as potential molecular targets in preventing cataracts.