bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Planform Geometry and Excitation Effects of PVDF-Based Vibration Energy Harvesters
Authors: Wang Jie , Nabawy Mostafa R. A. , Cioncolini Andrea , Revell Alistair , Weigert Samuel
Published: January 2021

In the present paper, we report a systematic investigation of planform geometry and excitation level effects on the dynamics and power generation characteristics of polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF)-based cantilevered vibration energy harvesters. Piezoelectric vibration energy harvesters provide a promising energy harvesting solution for widespread use of wireless sensors in remote locations. Highly flexible PVDF polymers offer resonant frequencies at suitable range for harvesting mechanical energy within low-frequency applications, though information on the efficient sizing of these devices is currently limited. We test the response of a set of eight harvesters to typical vibration sources excitation levels in the range 0.2–0.6 g. This set comprises four widths and two lengths, incrementing each time by a factor of two. The selected range of dimensions is sufficient to identify optimal power output versus width for both lengths tested. This optimal width value depends on excitation amplitude in such a way that narrower harvesters are more suited for small excitations, whereas wider harvesters perform better upon experiencing large excitations. Non-linear effects present in longer harvesters are demonstrated to significantly reduce performance, which motivates the selection of planform dimensions inside the linear range. Finally, we explore the correlation of performance with various geometric quantities in order to inform future design studies and highlight the value of using the second moment of planform area to measure harvester efficiency in terms of power density. This points towards the use of harvesters with non-rectangular planform area for optimal performance.
Understanding Membrane Fouling in Electrically Driven Energy Conversion Devices
Authors: Han Soo-Jin , Park Jin-Soo
Published: January 2021

Positively charged (cetylpyridinium chloride), negatively charged (sodium dodecyl sulfate), and non-charged (polyethylene glycol) surfactants are used as potential foulant in reverse electrodialysis systems supplying seawater and river freshwater. Fouling tendency of the foulants to ion-exchange membranes is investigated in terms of the adsorption by electromigration, electrostatic attraction, and macromolecule interaction in reverse electrodialysis systems. According to theoretical prediction of fouling tendency, charged foulants in seawater streams could foul ion-exchange membranes significantly. However, the worst fouling behavior is observed when the charged foulants are present in river streams. As a result of zeta potential measurement, it is found that the Debye length of the charged foulants decreases due to the higher ionic strength of seawater streams and causes to lower net electrostatic effect. It finally results in less fouling tendency in reverse electrodialysis.
Quantify Coal Macrolithotypes of a Whole Coal Seam: A Method Combing Multiple Geophysical Logging and Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Cui Chao , Chang Suoliang , Yao Yanbin , Cao Lutong
Published: January 2021

Coal macrolithotypes control the reservoir heterogeneity, which plays a significant role in the exploration and development of coalbed methane. Traditional methods for coal macrolithotype evaluation often rely on core observation, but these techniques are non-economical and insufficient. The geophysical logging data are easily available for coalbed methane exploration; thus, it is necessary to find a relationship between core observation results and wireline logging data, and then to provide a new method to quantify coal macrolithotypes of a whole coal seam. In this study, we propose a L-Index model by combing the multiple geophysical logging data with principal component analysis, and we use the L-Index model to quantitatively evaluate the vertical and regional distributions of the macrolithotypes of No. 3 coal seam in Zhengzhuang field, southern Qinshui basin. Moreover, we also proposed a S-Index model to quantitatively evaluate the general brightness of a whole coal seam: the increase of the S-Index from 1 to 3.7, indicates decreasing brightness, i.e., from bright coal to dull coal. Finally, we discussed the relationship between S-Index and the hydro-fracturing effect. It was found that the coal seam with low S-Index values can easily form long extending fractures during hydraulic fracturing. Therefore, the lower S-Index values indicate much more favorable gas production potential in the Zhengzhuang field. This study provides a new methodology to evaluate coal macrolithotypes by using geophysical logging data.
Sustainable Urban Areas for 2030 in a Post-COVID-19 Scenario: Focus on Innovative Research and Funding Frameworks to Boost Transition towards 100 Positive Energy Districts and 100 Climate-Neutral Cities
Authors: Clerici Maestosi Paola , Andreucci Maria Beatrice , Civiero Paolo
Published: January 2021

Cities generate about 85% of the EU’s GDP. As such, they are key players in shaping and providing technological and social innovations but also environmental impact. Thus, they must urgently engage in unprecedented systemic transformational and bold transitions towards sustainability and climate neutrality. The contribution—taking into account that the concepts of community resilience and urban transition have changed as a consequence of COVID-19—critically discusses innovative frameworks and funding opportunities that Horizon Europe will put in place to boost sustainable urban areas in Europe, driving a transition to 100 Positive Energy Districts and 100 climate-neutral cities by 2030.
Design of a Wireless Charging System for Online Battery Spectroscopy
Authors: Locorotondo Edoardo , Corti Fabio , Pugi Luca , Berzi Lorenzo , Reatti Alberto , Lutzemberger Giovanni
Published: January 2021

This paper presents the design procedure of an electric circuit that can perform the battery state diagnosis and, simultaneously, provide its charging. A fast and embedded impedance measurement method is also proposed; this is based on a broadband current signal excitation on the battery during the constant current charging phase. The proposed solution performs the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), which is known to provide useful information about battery chemical–physical property changes due to aging or failure events. To demonstrate the functionalities of the proposed method, the spectroscopy is implemented in the control in the wireless charging system. An EIS charging test is simulated on an equivalent circuit model, which emulates the battery impedance properties in a specified frequency band. Circuit parameters are evaluated by experimental data. According to the obtained results, the proposed method allows us to reach an accurate estimation of the battery state and represents a promising solution for an embedded diagnostic of battery health thanks to its simplicity and speed.
Numerical Investigation of Top Coal Drawing Evolution in Longwall Top Coal Caving by the Coupled Finite Difference Method-Discrete Element Method
Authors: Huo Yuming , Zhu Defu , Wang Zhonglun , Song Xuanmin
Published: January 2021

In longwall top coal caving (LTCC), the resource recovery ratio of the working face is directly determined by the top coal recovery ratio. An investigation of the evolution of top coal drawing characteristics and revealing the evolution of top coal drawing parameters is necessary when providing guidance for caving parameter selection and improving the top coal recovery ratio. Based on in-situ measurements of the size distribution of caved top coal blocks in Wangjialing coal mine, a finite difference method (FDM)–discrete element method (DEM) coupled method was applied to establish a “continuous–discontinuous” numerical model and the process from the first coal drawing to the common coal drawing was simulated with 17 separate working face advances. The evolution of the drawing body (DB), loose body (LB), and top coal boundary (TCB) was obtained. The results show that, the evolution of parameters of DB such as shape and size, drawing amount, length and deflection angle of the long axis of the profile ellipsoid tended to decrease first, then increase, decrease again, and finally stabilise; the increment of the LB advance coal wall distance and the coal pillar distance was close to 0 m in the common coal drawing stage, while width increment of the LB was close to the drawing interval (0.865 m). The TCB formed after each coal drawing round was fitted based on the improved “Hook” function. The evolution of height and radius of curvature of TCB’s stagnation point was analysed. This was divided into three stages: the first (first to third drawing rounds) was the initial mining influence stage, the second (fourth to ninth drawing rounds) was the transitional caving stage, and the third (after tenth drawing round) was the common coal drawing stage.
Active Filter Reference Calculations Based on Customers’ Current Harmonic Emissions
Authors: Špelko Aljaž , Blažič Boštjan , Papič Igor , Herman Leopold
Published: January 2021

This paper deals with harmonics compensation in industrial and distribution networks using an active filter (AcF). When defining the AcF’s reference current, it is important to properly consider the network background harmonic distortion. Within this paper, we propose an AcF reference current calculation method, based on customers’ current harmonic emissions. The main novelty of the paper is the AcF reference current calculation method that considers only the customer’s contributions to the harmonic distortion at the point of common coupling (PCC). By separating the harmonic current at the PCC into components that can be attributed to the customer and to the network, it is possible to limit the required AcF power. To determine the customer’s emission, the customer’s harmonic impedance must be known. As the actual harmonic impedance cannot be determined in a real environment, a reference harmonic impedance can be used instead. To test the proposed AcF reference current calculation method, we developed a control algorithm of an AcF in the PSCAD software and tested this on a medium-voltage benchmark simulation model.
Ηydrodynamic Response and Produced Power of a Combined Structure Consisting of a Spar and Heaving Type Wave Energy Converters
Authors: Michailides Constantine
Published: January 2021

During the past years, researchers have studied both numerically and experimentally multibody wave-wind combined energy structures supporting wind turbines and different types of Wave Energy Converters (WECs); rigid body hydrodynamic assumptions have been adopted so far for the development of their numerical models and the assessment of their produced power. In the present paper a numerical model that is based on the use of generalized modes addressing wave-structure interaction effects for the case of a multibody wave-wind combined structure is developed and presented. Afterwards, the developed numerical model is used for the assessment of the hydrodynamic response and the prediction of the produced power of different possible configurations of the updated WindWEC concept which consists of a spar supporting a wind turbine and one, two, three or four heaving type WEC buoys. The combined effects of the center-to-center distance of the WEC and spar platform, the number of the WECs and the grid configuration of spar and WECs on the hydrodynamic interaction between the different floating bodies, spar and WEC buoys, and consequently on their response and wave power production are examined for regular and irregular waves. Strong hydrodynamic interaction effects exist for small distance between spar and WECs that result to the decrease of the produced power. Power matrices of the updated WindWEC concept are presented for all examined configurations with different number of WECs. Moreover, the annual produced power of the updated WindWEC in two sites is estimated and presented. The generalized modes analysis presented in this paper is generic and can be used for the early stage assessment of wave-wind combined energy structures with low computational cost. The updated WindWEC can be used in sea sites with different environmental characteristics while extracting valuable amount of wave power.
Selection of Heat Pump Capacity Used at Thermal Power Plants under Electricity Market Operating Conditions
Authors: Treshcheva Milana , Anikina Irina , Sergeev Vitaly , Skulkin Sergey , Treshchev Dmitry
Published: January 2021

The percentage of heat pumps used in thermal power plants (TPPs) in the fuel and energy balance is extremely low in in most countries. One of the reasons for this is the lack of a systematic approach to selecting and justifying the circuit solutions and equipment capacity. This article aims to develop a new method of calculating the maximum capacity of heat pumps. The method proposed in the article has elements of marginal analysis. It takes into account the limitation of heat pump capacity by break-even operation at electric power market (compensation of fuel expenses, connected with electric power production). In this case, the heat pump’s maximum allowable capacity depends on the electric capacity of TPP, electricity consumption for own needs, specific consumption of conditional fuel for electricity production, a ratio of prices for energy resources, and a conversion factor of heat pump. For TPP based on combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) CCGT-450 with prices at the Russian energy resources markets at the level of 2019, when operating with the maximum heat load, the allowable heat pump capacity will be about 50 MW, and when operating with the minimum heat load—about 200 MW.
Low-Speed DSMC Simulations of Hotwire Anemometers at High-Altitude Conditions
Authors: Roseman Christopher A. , Argrow Brian M.
Published: January 2021

Numerical simulations of hotwire anemometers in low-speed, high-altitude conditions have been carried out using the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method. Hotwire instruments are commonly used for in-situ turbulence measurements because of their ability to obtain high spatial and temporal resolution data. Fast time responses are achieved by the wires having small diameters (1–5 μm). Hotwire instruments are currently being used to make in-situ measurements of high-altitude turbulence (20–40 km). At these altitudes, hotwires experience Knudsen number values that lie in the transition-regime between slip-flow and free-molecular flow. This article expands the current knowledge of hotwire anemometers by investigating their behavior in the transition-regime. Challenges involved with simulating hotwires at high Knudsen number and low Reynolds number conditions are discussed. The ability of the DSMC method to simulate hotwires from the free-molecular to slip-flow regimes is demonstrated. Dependence of heat transfer on surface accommodation coefficient is explored and discussed. Simulation results of Nusselt number dependence on Reynolds number show good agreement with experimental data. Magnitude discrepancies are attributed to differences between simulation and experimental conditions, while discrepancies in trend are attributed to finite simulation domain size.
Odd- and Branched-Chain Fatty Acids in Lamb Meat as Potential Indicators of Fattening Diet Characteristics
Authors: Gómez-Cortés Pilar , Requena Domenech Francisco , Correro Rueda Marta , de la Fuente Miguel Ángel , Schiavone Achille , Martínez Marín Andrés L.
Published: January 2021

There is a growing interest of researchers in meat authentication in terms of geographical and dietary background of animals, and several analytical methods have been proposed for the purpose of investigating this. We hypothesized that the odd- and branched-chain fatty acid (OBCFA) profile in intramuscular fat (IMF) might suffice to distinguish lamb meat entering the food chain supply on the basis of the type of diet fed to lambs during the fattening period. A total of 30 individual OBCFA profiles, quantified by gas chromatography, of IMF of Manchego lambs were used. During the fattening period (42 days), the lambs were fed three diets differing in concentrate composition: (i) Control, concentrate typical of commercial fattening rations, rich in starch and based on cereals and soybean meal; (ii) Camelina, similar to Control but replacing 50% of the soybean meal with camelina meal; and (iii) Fibrous, concentrate rich in neutral detergent fiber (NDF), based on fibrous by-products and not including cereals nor soybean meal. The OBCFA were grouped into three classes (linear odd, iso and anteiso fatty acids) and were then submitted to a linear discriminant analysis, using the feeding treatments as grouping variable and the OBCFA class contents in IMF as quantitative variables. The results suggested that a high NDF to starch ratio of the concentrate, being the lowest for Control (CON) treatment and the highest for Fibrous (FIB) treatment, would be negatively related to the odd/anteiso ratio and positively related to the iso/(anteiso+odd) FA ratio in IMF. Determination of OBCFA profile in lamb meat would be useful to monitor the feeding regime (starch- or NDF-rich) of lambs entering the food chain supply.
Optimization of Protein Extraction of Oenological Interest from Grape Seed Meal Using Design of Experiments and Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Baca-Bocanegra Berta , Nogales-Bueno Julio , Hernández-Hierro José Miguel , Heredia Francisco José
Published: January 2021

After grape processing, large amounts of seeds are produced as a side product. Grape seeds are rich in proteins that could be extracted and revalorized by the wine industry due to their high techno-functional value for modulating quality features of red wines or as an alternative to the use of other stabilizers, which are also proteins but submitted to legal restrictions. Box–Behnken design and response surface methodology were used to optimize the protein extraction from defatted grape seed meal to maximize the protein purity of the isolate under practical operating conditions of pH, temperature, meal/water ratio and extraction time. The most significant factor was pH, both in the linear and quadratic forms. Additionally, the interaction between pH and temperature exhibited a significant effect on protein content. The removal of phenolic compounds from grapeseed meal, before optimizing protein extraction, led to a significant increase of 7.70% in the protein purity of grape seed protein concentrate. Therefore, grape seeds can be used as a sustainable way for protein production in the oenological sector due to the availability of grape seeds, their low cost as a grape-processing by-product, and the protein purity reached thanks to the described procedure for optimization of protein extraction.
Investigation of the Distribution and Content of Acetylcholine, a Novel Functional Compound in Eggplant
Authors: Wang Wenhao , Yamaguchi Shohei , Suzuki Ayako , Wagu Naomi , Koyama Masahiro , Takahashi Akihiko , Takada Risa , Miyatake Koji , Nakamura Kozo
Published: January 2021

Eggplants are rich in acetylcholine (ACh), which can improve high blood pressure and negative psychological states. However, information on ACh content in individual parts of eggplant and the changes in ACh content during eggplant development is limited. Therefore, we investigated the ACh content in various parts of eggplant, namely, the leaf, root, bud, calyx, ovary, fruit, exocarp, mesocarp, partition, placenta, core, fruit base, fruit center, and fruit top in 26 eggplant varieties. Furthermore, the effect of heat treatment on ACh content was investigated. The ACh content significantly differed among the eggplant varieties. The difference between the varieties with the highest and lowest ACh content was 100-fold (Tosataka: 11 ± 0.61 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW) and Ryoma: 0.11 ± 0.046 mg/100 g FW, respectively). Eggplant fruit presented the highest ACh content (4.8 mg/100 g FW); it was three times higher than that in other parts combined (1.6 mg/100 g FW). The root contained the lowest ACh content among all parts. The ACh content increased with growth after flowering. The ACh content in the fruit 1.5 months after flowering was 400 times that in the ovary. ACh was uniformly distributed in eggplant flesh. Heat treatment did not cause ACh loss in eggplant. Thus, eggplant is an excellent raw material for functional foods.
Modelling Processes and Products in the Cereal Chain
Authors: Carvalho Otilia , Charalambides Maria N. , Djekić Ilija , Athanassiou Christos , Bakalis Serafim , Benedito Jose , Briffaz Aurelien , Castañé Cristina , Della Valle Guy , de Sousa Isabel Maria Nunes , Erdogdu Ferruh , Feyissa Aberham Hailu , Kavallieratos Nickolas G. , Koulouris Alexandros , Pojić Milica , Raymundo Anabela , Riudavets Jordi , Sarghini Fabrizio , Trematerra Pasquale , Tonda Alberto
Published: January 2021

In recent years, modelling techniques have become more frequently adopted in the field of food processing, especially for cereal-based products, which are among the most consumed foods in the world. Predictive models and simulations make it possible to explore new approaches and optimize proceedings, potentially helping companies reduce costs and limit carbon emissions. Nevertheless, as the different phases of the food processing chain are highly specialized, advances in modelling are often unknown outside of a single domain, and models rarely take into account more than one step. This paper introduces the first high-level overview of modelling techniques employed in different parts of the cereal supply chain, from farming to storage, from drying to milling, from processing to consumption. This review, issued from a networking project including researchers from over 30 different countries, aims at presenting the current state of the art in each domain, showing common trends and synergies, to finally suggest promising future venues for research.
Optimal V-Plane Robust Stabilization Method for Interval Uncertain Fractional Order PID Control Systems
Authors: Tufenkci Sevilay , Senol Bilal , Matušů Radek , Alagoz Baris Baykant
Published: January 2021

Robust stability is a major concern for real-world control applications. Realization of optimal robust stability requires a stabilization scheme, which ensures that the control system is stable and presents robust performance for a predefined range of system perturbations. This study presented an optimal robust stabilization approach for closed-loop fractional order proportional integral derivative (FOPID) control systems with interval parametric uncertainty and uncertain time delay. This stabilization approach, which is carried out in a v-plane, relies on the placement of the minimum angle system pole to a predefined target angle within the stability region of the first Riemann sheet. For this purpose, tuning of FOPID controller coefficients was performed to minimize a root angle error that is defined as the squared difference of minimum angle root of interval characteristic polynomials and the desired target angle within the stability region of the v-plane. To solve this optimization problem, a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm was implemented. Findings of the study reveal that tuning of the target angle can also be used to improve the robust control performance of interval uncertain FOPID control systems. Illustrative examples demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed v-domain, optimal, robust stabilization of FOPID control systems.
4SpecID: Reference DNA Libraries Auditing and Annotation System for Forensic Applications
Authors: Neto Luís , Pinto Nádia , Proença Alberto , Amorim António , Conde-Sousa Eduardo
Published: January 2021

Forensic genetics is a fast-growing field that frequently requires DNA-based taxonomy, namely, when evidence are parts of specimens, often highly processed in food, potions, or ointments. Reference DNA-sequences libraries, such as BOLD or GenBank, are imperative tools for taxonomic assignment, particularly when morphology is inadequate for classification. The auditing and curation of these datasets require reliable mechanisms, preferably with automated data preprocessing. Software tools were developed to grade these datasets considering as primary criterion the number of records, which is not compliant with forensic standards, where the priority is validation from independent sources. Moreover, 4SpecID is an efficient and freely available software tool developed to audit and annotate reference libraries, specifically designed for forensic applications. Its intuitive user-friendly interface virtually accesses any database and includes specific data mining functions tuned for the widespread BOLD repositories. The built tool was evaluated in laptop MacBook and a dual-Xeon server with a large BOLD dataset (Culicidae, 36,115 records), and the best execution time to grade the dataset on the laptop was 0.28 s. Datasets of Bovidae and Felidae families were used to evaluate the quality of the tool and the relevance of independent sources validation.
Comparison of Long-Term Effects between Chest Compression-Only CPR Training and Conventional CPR Training on CPR Skills among Police Officers
Authors: Cho Byung-Jun , Kim Seon-Rye
Published: January 2021

Despite of the changes of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) survival rise when bystander CPR is provided, this was only conducted in about 23% of OHCA patients in Korea in 2018. Police officers acting as first responders have a high chance of witnessing situations requiring CPR. We investigated long-term effects on CPR quality between chest compression-only CPR training and conventional CPR training in police officers to find an efficient CPR training method in a prospective, randomized, controlled trial. Police officers underwent randomization and received different CPR training. With the Brayden Pro application, we compared the accuracy of CPR skills immediately after training and the one after 3 months. Right after training, the conventional CPR group presented the accuracy of the CPR skills (compression rate: 74.6%, compression depth: 66.0%, recoil: 78.0%, compression position: 96.1%) and chest compression-only CPR group presented the accuracy of the CPR skills (compression rate: 74.5%, compression depth: 71.6%, recoil: 79.2%, compression position: 99.0%). Overall, both groups showed the good quality of CPR skills and had no meaningful difference right after the training. However, three months after training, overall accuracy of CPR skills decreased, a significant difference between two groups was observed for compression position (conventional CPR: 80.0%, chest compression only CPR: 95.0%). In multiple linear regression analysis, three months after CPR training, chest compression-only CPR training made CPR skills accuracy 28.5% higher. In conclusion, police officers showed good-quality CPR right after CPR training in both groups. But three months later, chest compression-only CPR training group had better retention of CPR skills. Therefore, chest compression-only CPR training is better to be a standard training method for police officers as first responders.
Allergic Rhinitis and Laryngeal Pathology: Real-World Evidence
Authors: Wang Yun-Ting , Chang Geng-He , Yang Yao-Hsu , Liu Chia-Yen , Tsai Yao-Te , Hsu Cheng-Ming , Lee Yi-Chan , Lee Li-Ang , Yang Pei-Rung , Tsai Ming-Shao , Li Hsueh-Yu
Published: January 2021

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is correlated with diseases including allergic laryngitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The unified airway model suggests that inflammation can spread in both lower and upper respiratory tracts. Moreover, some voice problems—laryngeal edema, dysphonia, and vocal nodules—have been associated with AR. We examined the association between AR and laryngeal pathology. We investigated 51,618 patients with AR between 1 January 1997 and 31 December 2013, along with 206,472 patients without AR matched based on age, gender, urbanization level, and socioeconomic status at a 1:4 ratio. We followed patients up to the end of 2013 or their death. The occurrence of laryngeal pathology was the primary outcome. Individuals with AR had a 2.43 times higher risk of laryngeal pathology than the comparison cohort group (adjusted HR: 2.43, 95% CI: 2.36–2.50, p < 0.001). Patients diagnosed as having AR exhibited higher comorbidity rates, including of asthma, COPD, CRS, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and nasal septum deviation, than those of the comparison cohort. Our results strongly indicate that AR is an independent risk factor for laryngeal pathology. Therefore, when treating AR and voice problems, physicians should be attuned to possible laryngeal pathology.
Blood Pressure and Tooth Loss: A Large Cross-Sectional Study with Age Mediation Analysis
Authors: Mendes José João , Viana João , Cruz Filipe , Pereira Dinis , Ferreira Sílvia , Pereira Paula , Proença Luís , Machado Vanessa , Botelho João , Rua João , Delgado Ana Sintra
Published: January 2021

We aimed to investigate the association between blood pressure (BP) and tooth loss and the mediation effect of age. A cross-sectional study from a reference dental hospital was conducted from September 2017 to July 2020. Single measures of BP were taken via an automated sphygmomanometer device. Tooth loss was assessed through oral examination and confirmed radiographically. Severe tooth loss was defined as 10 or more teeth lost. Additional study covariates were collected via sociodemographic and medical questionnaires. A total of 10,576 patients were included. Hypertension was more prevalent in severe tooth loss patients than nonsevere tooth lost (56.1% vs. 39.3%, p < 0.001). The frequency of likely undiagnosed hypertension was 43.4%. The adjusted logistic model for sex, smoking habits and body mass index confirmed the association between continuous measures of high BP and continuous measures of tooth loss (odds ratio (OR) = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.03–1.06, p < 0.001). Age mediated 80.0% and 87.5% of the association between periodontitis with both systolic BP (p < 0.001) and diastolic BP (p < 0.001), respectively. Therefore, hypertension and tooth loss are associated, with a consistent mediation effect of age. Frequency of undiagnosed hypertension was elevated. Age, gender, active smoking, and BMI were independently associated with raised BP.
Medical Compliance of Fibrate and the Decreased Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Dyslipidemia-Related Diseases: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Kai , Hsieh Ming-Ju , Chien Hsiang-Wen , Lee Chia-Yi , Yeh Chao-Bin , Huang Jing-Yang , Yang Shun-Fa
Published: January 2021

The purpose of the current study is to evaluate the incidence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in dyslipidemia-related diseases with or without the use of fibrate. Patients were defined as dyslipidemia-related diseases according to the diagnostic code and lab exam arrangement, then the population was divided into those with fibrate application and those without via 1:2 ratios of propensity-score matching. The primary outcome is the development of AMD after dyslipidemia-related diseases by the Cox proportional hazard regression. Besides, the relationship between the medical compliance of fibrate, presented as medical possession ratio (MPR), and the AMD development was also analyzed. A total of 22,917 patients and 45,834 individuals were enrolled in the study and control groups. There were 572 and 1181 events of any AMD development in the study and control groups which showed identical risk of AMD (aHR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.85–1.04). However, a reduced risk of any AMD was found in those patients reached a baseline MPR more than 20% (aHR: 0.729, 95% CI: 0.599–0.887, p = 0.0016) and overall MPR more than 5% three years after the diagnosis of dyslipidemia-related diseases (aHR: 0.712, 95% CI: 0.557–0.909, p = 0.0065). Besides, a lower risk of dry-AMD was also found in those patients with the above conditions (aHR: 0.736, 95% CI: 0.599–0.906, p = 0.0038 and aHR: 0.721, 95% CI: 0.557–0.934, p = 0.0133, respectively). In conclusion, the use of fibrate with fair initial medical compliance will decrease the incidence of AMD in patients with dyslipidemia-related diseases, especially for the development of dry-AMD.
Comparison of Lifestyle of Catholics and Seventh-Day Adventists and the Relationship with Homocysteine as Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Diseases, a Cross-Sectional Study in Polish Males and Females
Authors: Majda Anna , Zalewska-Puchała Joanna , Bodys-Cupak Iwona , Kamińska Alicja , Kurowska Anna , Suder Marcin
Published: January 2021

Background: A review of epidemiological data demonstrates relationships between defined health behaviours linked with religious affiliation and a reduced risk of developing and dying from Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). The aim of the study was to compare the lifestyle of Seventh-day Adventists (SDA) and Catholics (CA), to determine the relationship between the lifestyle of SDA, CA and the level of serum homocysteine as a risk factor for CVD. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 252 SDA and CA. The following tools were used: interview questionnaire, anthropometric measurement, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Inventory of Health Behaviours (IHB), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), laboratory tests (homocysteine level), and the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND). Results: Selected lifestyle elements, such as smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, physical activity, diet, Body Mass Index (BMI), health behaviours on the IHB, psychosocial factors and level of stress for CA were significantly different in comparison to SDA. The religion professed by the respondents was not significantly associated with the increased level of homocysteine as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The level of homocysteine for CA were significantly different in comparison to SDA. The studied group of CA was significantly influenced by socio-demographic factors: gender, age, education, place of residence, BMI and lifestyle: drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes, consumption of dark bread, pasta, and groats. For the studied group of SDA, the level of homocysteine was significantly influenced by socio-demographic factors such as gender, age, professional activity, and consumption of legumes. Conclusions: Public health professionals and nurses should develop culturally specific educational interventions.
Natural Molecules and Neuroprotection: Kynurenic Acid, Pantethine and α-Lipoic Acid
Authors: Tóth Fanni , Cseh Edina Katalin , Vécsei László
Published: January 2021

The incidence of neurodegenerative diseases has increased greatly worldwide due to the rise in life expectancy. In spite of notable development in the understanding of these disorders, there has been limited success in the development of neuroprotective agents that can slow the progression of the disease and prevent neuronal death. Some natural products and molecules are very promising neuroprotective agents because of their structural diversity and wide variety of biological activities. In addition to their neuroprotective effect, they are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects and often serve as a starting point for drug discovery. In this review, the following natural molecules are discussed: firstly, kynurenic acid, the main neuroprotective agent formed via the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism, as it is known mainly for its role in glutamate excitotoxicity, secondly, the dietary supplement pantethine, that is many sided, well tolerated and safe, and the third molecule, α-lipoic acid is a universal antioxidant. As a conclusion, because of their beneficial properties, these molecules are potential candidates for neuroprotective therapies suitable in managing neurodegenerative diseases.
Choline Acetyltransferase Induces the Functional Regeneration of the Salivary Gland in Aging SAMP1/Kl -/- Mice
Authors: Toan Nguyen Khanh , Tai Nguyen Chi , Kim Soo-A , Ahn Sang-Gun
Published: January 2021

Salivary gland dysfunction induces salivary flow reduction and a dry mouth, and commonly involves oral dysfunction, tooth structure deterioration, and infection through reduced salivation. This study aimed to investigate the impact of aging on the salivary gland by a metabolomics approach in an extensive aging mouse model, SAMP1/Klotho -/- mice. We found that the salivary secretion of SAMP1/Klotho -/- mice was dramatically decreased compared with that of SAMP1/Klotho WT (+/+) mice. Metabolomics profiling analysis showed that the level of acetylcholine was significantly decreased in SAMP1/Klotho -/- mice, although the corresponding levels of acetylcholine precursors, acetyl-CoA and choline, increased. Interestingly, the mRNA and protein expression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), which is responsible for catalyzing acetylcholine synthesis, was significantly decreased in SAMP1/Klotho -/- mice. The overexpression of ChAT induced the expression of salivary gland functional markers (α–amylase, ZO-1, and Aqua5) in primary cultured salivary gland cells from SAMP1/Klotho +/+ and -/- mice. In an in vivo study, adeno-associated virus (AAV)-ChAT transduction significantly increased saliva secretion compared with the control in SAMP1/Klotho -/- mice. These results suggest that the dysfunction in acetylcholine biosynthesis induced by ChAT reduction may cause impaired salivary gland function
Functional Coupling of Slack Channels and P2X3 Receptors Contributes to Neuropathic Pain Processing
Authors: Lu Ruirui , Metzner Katharina , Zhou Fangyuan , Flauaus Cathrin , Balzulat Annika , Engel Patrick , Petersen Jonas , Ehinger Rebekka , Bausch Anne , Ruth Peter , Lukowski Robert , Schmidtko Achim
Published: January 2021

The sodium-activated potassium channel Slack (KNa1.1, Slo2.2, or Kcnt1) is highly expressed in populations of sensory neurons, where it mediates the sodium-activated potassium current (IKNa) and modulates neuronal activity. Previous studies suggest that Slack is involved in the processing of neuropathic pain. However, mechanisms underlying the regulation of Slack activity in this context are poorly understood. Using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings we found that Slack-mediated IKNa in sensory neurons of mice is reduced after peripheral nerve injury, thereby contributing to neuropathic pain hypersensitivity. Interestingly, Slack is closely associated with ATP-sensitive P2X3 receptors in a population of sensory neurons. In vitro experiments revealed that Slack-mediated IKNa may be bidirectionally modulated in response to P2X3 activation. Moreover, mice lacking Slack show altered nocifensive responses to P2X3 stimulation. Our study identifies P2X3/Slack signaling as a mechanism contributing to hypersensitivity after peripheral nerve injury and proposes a potential novel strategy for treatment of neuropathic pain.
CK2 Down-Regulation Increases the Expression of Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype Factors through NF-κB Activation
Authors: Song Junbin , Bae Young-Seuk
Published: January 2021

Senescent cells secrete pro-inflammatory factors, and a hallmark feature of senescence is senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). The aim of this study is to investigate the protein kinase CK2 (CK2) effects on SASP factors expression in cellular senescence and organism aging. Here CK2 down-regulation induced the expression of SASP factors, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 3, through the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling in MCF-7 and HCT116 cells. CK2 down-regulation-mediated SIRT1 inactivation promoted the degradation of inhibitors of NF-κB (IκB) by activating the AKT-IκB kinase (IKK) axis and increased the acetylation of lysine 310 on RelA/p65, an important site for the activity of NF-κB. kin-10 (the ortholog of CK2β) knockdown increased zmp-1, -2, and -3 (the orthologs of MMP) expression in nematodes, but AKT inhibitor triciribine and SIRT activator resveratrol significantly abrogated the increased expression of these genes. Finally, antisense inhibitors of miR-186, miR-216b, miR-337-3p, and miR-760 suppressed CK2α down-regulation, activation of the AKT-IKK-NF-κB axis, RelA/p65 acetylation, and expression of SASP genes in cells treated with lipopolysaccharide. Therefore, this study indicated that CK2 down-regulation induces the expression of SASP factors through NF-κB activation, which is mediated by both activation of the SIRT1-AKT-IKK axis and RelA/p65 acetylation, suggesting that the mixture of the four miRNA inhibitors can be used as anti-inflammatory agents.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein-3 Binds to Histone 3
Authors: Bhardwaj Apurva , Pathak Kumar Alok , Shrivastav Anuraag , Varma Shrivastav Shailly
Published: January 2021

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) is an essential protein that regulates cellular processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. It is known to bind with several proteins to carry out various cellular functions. In this study, we report for the first time that IGFBP-3 is a histone 3 (H3) binding protein. Sub-cellular fractionation was performed to separate into cytosolic fraction, nucleic acid binding protein fraction and insoluble nuclear fraction. Using ligand blot analysis, we identified a ~15 kDa protein that can interact with IGFBP-3 in the insoluble nuclear fraction. The 15 kDa protein was confirmed as histone 3 by far-Western blot analysis and co-immunoprecipitation experiments. A dot-blot experiment further validated the binding of IGFBP-3 with H3. The intensity of IGFBP-3 on dot-blot showed a proportional increase with H3 concentrations between 2.33 pmol–37.42 pmol. Our results support the presence of protein-protein interaction between IGFBP-3 and H3. The physical binding between IGFBP-3 and H3 could indicate its yet another cellular role in regulating the chromatin remodeling for gene transcription.
Fibrosis in Chronic Kidney Disease: Pathogenesis and Consequences
Authors: Panizo Sara , Martínez-Arias Laura , Alonso-Montes Cristina , Cannata Pablo , Martín-Carro Beatriz , Fernández-Martín José L. , Naves-Díaz Manuel , Carrillo-López Natalia , Cannata-Andía Jorge B.
Published: January 2021

Fibrosis is a process characterized by an excessive accumulation of the extracellular matrix as a response to different types of tissue injuries, which leads to organ dysfunction. The process can be initiated by multiple and different stimuli and pathogenic factors which trigger the cascade of reparation converging in molecular signals responsible of initiating and driving fibrosis. Though fibrosis can play a defensive role, in several circumstances at a certain stage, it can progressively become an uncontrolled irreversible and self-maintained process, named pathological fibrosis. Several systems, molecules and responses involved in the pathogenesis of the pathological fibrosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) will be discussed in this review, putting special attention on inflammation, renin-angiotensin system (RAS), parathyroid hormone (PTH), fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), Klotho, microRNAs (miRs), and the vitamin D hormonal system. All of them are key factors of the core and regulatory pathways which drive fibrosis, having a great negative kidney and cardiac impact in CKD.
Human DDX3X Unwinds Japanese Encephalitis and Zika Viral 5′ Terminal Regions
Authors: Nelson Corey , Mrozowich Tyler , Gemmill Darren L. , Park Sean M. , Patel Trushar R.
Published: January 2021

Flavivirus genus includes many deadly viruses such as the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) and Zika virus (ZIKV). The 5′ terminal regions (TR) of flaviviruses interact with human proteins and such interactions are critical for viral replication. One of the human proteins identified to interact with the 5′ TR of JEV is the DEAD-box helicase, DDX3X. In this study, we in vitro transcribed the 5′ TR of JEV and demonstrated its direct interaction with recombinant DDX3X (Kd of 1.66 ± 0.21 µM) using microscale thermophoresis (MST). Due to the proposed structural similarities of 5′ and 3′ TRs of flaviviruses, we investigated if the ZIKV 5′ TR could also interact with human DDX3X. Our MST studies suggested that DDX3X recognizes ZIKV 5′ TR with a Kd of 7.05 ± 0.75 µM. Next, we performed helicase assays that suggested that the binding of DDX3X leads to the unwinding of JEV and ZIKV 5′ TRs. Overall, our data indicate, for the first time, that DDX3X can directly bind and unwind in vitro transcribed flaviviral TRs. In summary, our work indicates that DDX3X could be further explored as a therapeutic target to inhibit Flaviviral replication
Durable Oral Biofilm Resistance of 3D-Printed Dental Base Polymers Containing Zwitterionic Materials
Authors: Kwon Jae-Sung , Kim Ji-Yeong , Mangal Utkarsh , Seo Ji-Young , Lee Myung-Jin , Jin Jie , Yu Jae-Hun , Choi Sung-Hwan
Published: January 2021

Poly(methyl methacralyate) (PMMA) has long been used in dentistry as a base polymer for dentures, and it is recently being used for the 3D printing of dental materials. Despite its many advantages, its susceptibility to microbial colonization remains to be overcome. In this study, the interface between 3D-printed PMMA specimens and oral salivary biofilm was studied following the addition of zwitterionic materials, 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) or sulfobetaine methacrylate (SB). A significant reduction in bacterial and biofilm adhesions was observed following the addition of MPC or SB, owing to their protein-repellent properties, and there were no significant differences between the two test materials. Although the mechanical properties of the tested materials were degraded, the statistical value of the reduction was minimal and all the properties fulfilled the requirements set by the International Standard, ISO 20795-2. Additionally, both the test materials maintained their resistance to biofilm when subjected to hydrothermal fatigue, with no further deterioration of the mechanical properties. Thus, novel 3D-printable PMMA incorporated with MPC or SB shows durable oral salivary biofilm resistance with maintenance of the physical and mechanical properties.
Hyperhomocysteinemia: Focus on Endothelial Damage as a Cause of Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Salvio Gianmaria , Ciarloni Alessandro , Cutini Melissa , Balercia Giancarlo
Published: January 2021

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to maintain and/or achieve a satisfactory erection. This condition can be influenced by the presence of atherosclerosis, a systemic pathology of the vessels that also affects the cavernous arteries and which can cause an alteration of blood flow at penile level. Among the cardiovascular risk factors affecting the genesis of atherosclerosis, hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcys) plays a central role, which is associated with oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. This review focuses on the biological processes that lead to homocysteine-induced endothelial damage and discusses the consequences of HHcys on male sexual function