bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Has the Prevalence of Childhood Obesity in Spain Plateaued? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bravo-Saquicela Diana M. , Sabag Angelo , Rezende Leandro F. M. , Rey-Lopez Juan Pablo
Published: April 2022

The prevalence of excess body weight (overweight plus obesity) in children has risen during the last decades in many countries, but it is unclear whether it has reached a plateau in Spanish children. We performed an updated systematic review and meta-analysis for the prevalence of excess body weight in children from Spain, comparing the trends between 1999 and 2010 and 2011 and 2021. Data were reported in a prior meta-analysis, plus an updated search using the Web of Science, MEDLINE (via PubMed) and EMBASE databases for data from January 2018 until December 2021. Thirteen representative studies were identified (34,813 children aged 2 to 13 years), with sample sizes averaging 2678 (range: 396–16,665). The prevalence of excess body weight in Spanish children aged 2 to 6 years increased from 23.3% (95% CI, 18.5% to 25.5%) during the period 1999–2010 to 39.9% (95% CI, 35.4% to 44.7%) during 2011–2021. In children aged 7 to 13 years, the prevalence of excess body weight increased from 32.3% (95% CI, 29.1–35.6%) during the period 1999–2010 to 35.3% (95% CI, 32.9–37.7%) during 2011–2021. The prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity in Spain has substantially increased in the last decade. New food policies to address the childhood obesity epidemic are urgently required to reverse current trends.
Behavioral Intention to Get a Booster Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine among Chinese Factory Workers
Authors: Zhang Kechun , Fang Yuan , Chan Paul Shing-fong , Cao He , Chen Hongbiao , Hu Tian , Chen Yaqi , Zhou Xiaofeng , Wang Zixin
Published: April 2022

China started to offer a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine to members of the adult population in October 2021. This study investigated the behavioral intention to receive a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine among factory workers who had completed their primary vaccination series. Participants were full-time factory employees at least 18 years of age in Shenzhen, China. In Shenzhen, factory workers need to receive a physical examination every year. The study sites covered all six organizations providing physical examinations for factory workers. All eligible workers attending these sites between 26 and 31 October 2021 were invited to complete an online survey. This study was based on 2329 participants who had completed the primary COVID-19 vaccination series. Two-level logistic regression models were fitted. Among the participants, 84% intended to receive a free booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine within the next six months. After controlling for significant background characteristics, we found that perceptions related to a booster dose as well as interpersonal level factors such as information exposure on social media, thoughtful consideration of the veracity of the information, and satisfaction with vaccine-related promotional materials were determinants of behavioral intention. Factory workers in China reported a high level of behavioral intention to receive a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Relative Contribution of Metal Content and Soil Particle Mass to Health Risk of Chromium-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Huang Shuting , Huang Fei , Yang Xiaojun , Xiao Rongbo , Wang Yunze , Xu Meili , Huang Yuxuan , Shi Hangyuan , Wang Peng
Published: April 2022

Three soil samples from a chromium (Cr)-contaminated field were classified into five particle fractions (i.e., 0–50 μm, 50–100 μm, 100–250 μm, 250–500 μm, and 500–1000 μm) and were further characterized to study their physicochemical properties and Cr bioaccessibility. The results indicated that the gastrointestinal bioaccessibility estimated by the Solubility Bioaccessibility Research Consortium (SBRC) method was on average 15.9% higher than that by the physiologically based extraction test (PBET) method. The health risk of all samples was within the safe range, and the health risk based on total Cr content may be overestimated by an average of 13.2 times compared to the bioaccessibility-based health risk. The health risk investigated from metal content was mainly contributed by the 50–250 μm fraction, which was 47.5, 50.2, and 43.5% for low-, medium-, and high-level polluted soils, respectively. As for the combined effect, the fractions of 100–250 μm and 500–1000 μm contributed the highest proportion to health risk, which was 57.1, 62.1, and 64.4% for low-level, medium-level, and high-level polluted soils, respectively. These results may further deepen the understanding of health risk assessment and quantify the contribution of the soil particle mass to health risk.
Behavior Modification Techniques on Patients with Chronic Pain in the Context of COVID-19 Telerehabilitation: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Cuenca-Martínez Ferran , Calatayud Joaquín , Suso-Martí Luis , Varangot-Reille Clovis , Herranz-Gómez Aida , Blanco-Díaz María , Casaña José
Published: April 2022

The aim of this systematic review (SR) of SRs was to assess the effectiveness of telerehabilitation based on behavior modification techniques (t-BMT) in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. We searched in PubMed, PEDro, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar (January 2022). The outcome measures were pain intensity, disability, psychological distress, pain-related fear of movement, disease impact, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and physical function. This review was previously registered on the international prospective register of systematic reviews PROSPERO (CRD42021262192). Methodological quality was analyzed using the AMSTAR and ROBIS scales, and the strength of evidence was established according to the Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee grading criteria. Four SRs with and without meta-analyses covering 25 trials and involving 4593 patients were included. Of the three SRs that assessed pain intensity, two reported a significant decrease compared to usual care. Contradictory results were also found in the management of psychological distress, and of depressive and anxiety symptoms. However, two reviews found that t-BMT has significant effects on disability, and one review found that t-BMT seems to be effective for improving pain-related fear of movement and disease impact. Finally, one review found that t-BMT does not seem to be an effective modality to improve physical function. The quality of evidence was limited for all outcomes assessed. The results obtained showed that t-BMT was effective in improving disability, disease impact, and pain-related fear of movement, but it was not effective in improving physical function in patients with chronic pain. Mixed evidence was found for pain intensity, psychological distress, and depressive and anxiety symptoms, with a limited quality of evidence.
Adolescents’ Perceptions of Gender Aspects in a Virtual-Reality-Based Alcohol-Prevention Tool: A Focus Group Study
Authors: Prediger Christina , Hrynyschyn Robert , Iepan Iasmina , Stock Christiane
Published: April 2022

Virtual reality (VR) is an innovative tool for alcohol prevention among adolescents. However, many aspects of virtual simulations for alcohol prevention remained unstudied, and research on opportunities for tailoring such tools to users’ gender using avatar-based pathways is lacking. The present study, therefore, explores adolescents’ perceptions of gender portrayal and gender tailoring using Virtual LimitLab—a VR simulation for building refusal skills for dealing with peer pressure to consume alcohol. Focus groups were conducted after individual simulation testing with 13 adolescents in four groups, whose statements and discussion underwent thematic analysis. Three main themes were identified: the relevance of gender, opinions on different tailoring options for gender, and opinions on flirt orientation. Divergent arguments for different tailoring options and representations of gender in the simulation were proposed. Some participants changed opinions during discussions. Sexual harassment was consensually deemed an important issue that is linked to both partying and alcohol and was concluded to require being addressed along with alcohol prevention. A consensus also formed around open flirting possibilities (regardless of gender), and awareness of non-binary peers was raised. Based on the observed sensitivity of the adolescents to gender diversity, it is necessary to include LGBTQIA+ adolescents when developing gender-sensitive simulations.
Critical Thinking and Motivation in Vocational Training and Baccalaureate: A Comparison Study of Students of Spanish Nationality, Unaccompanied Foreign Minors and Young Care Leavers
Authors: Parejo-Jiménez Noelia , Expósito-López Jorge , Chacón-Cuberos Ramón , Olmedo-Moreno Eva María
Published: April 2022

The present study analyzed academic motivation and its relationship with dispositions towards critical thinking in a sample of 131 students of Spanish nationality and 131 students of foreign nationality (unaccompanied foreign minors and foreign adolescents who had previously experienced the Andalusian care system). For this, an ex-post-facto study was conducted which was descriptive, comparative, and cross-sectional in nature. The main analyses carried out are of a descriptive and inferential nature, the latter to analyze the differences and associations between the variables of critical thinking and motivation (ANOVA test and an structural equations models) in both groups. Main outcomes included the lack of significant differences in dispositions towards critical thinking between Spanish and foreign students, alongside the existence of significant differences in academic motivation between both of these groups. In addition to this, significant differences were found within the group of Spanish nationality students in the dimensions of critical thinking as a function of intrinsic motivation, whilst such differences emerged in the foreign nationality group as a function of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and amotivation. Finally, within the group of Spanish students, a significant and positive relationship was found between motivation and critical thinking, being positive and non-significant in the foreign national group. In conclusion, it is necessary to improve dispositions towards critical thinking and educational motivation from the educational system for the inclusion of minors and youths in today’s society.
Implementation Challenges and Recommendations for Employing Peer Support Workers in Emergency Departments to Support Patients Presenting after an Opioid-Related Overdose
Authors: Crisanti Annette S. , Earheart Jennifer , Deissinger Megan , Lowerre Kathryn , Salvador Julie G.
Published: April 2022

The placement of a peer support workers (PSWs) in emergency departments (ED) is a promising practice for supporting persons with opioid use disorder who are presenting with an overdose or related medical condition. However, this practice is underutilized. The objective of this study was to identify the challenges of employing PSWs in the ED and provide a checklist to increase the likelihood of their successful integration and retention in this environment. Qualitative methods were used to collect data from nineteen key stakeholders who worked in hospital settings. Using a social-ecological model, themes were identified at the system, hospital, and individual levels. To support integration of PSWs and buy in for the ED team, our findings indicate a need for a planning phase that includes collaboration between leadership, ED staff, and PSWs. Specifically, planning should address four areas: (1) hiring a PSW that is a good fit for the fast-paced ED setting, (2) education of ED staff on the value and role of PSWs, (3) establishing workflow protocols, and (4) providing PSWs with training and appropriate supervision.
Directly or Indirectly? The Role of Social Support in the Psychological Pathways Underlying Suicidal Ideation in People with Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Owen Rebecca , Jones Steven H. , Dempsey Robert C. , Gooding Patricia A.
Published: April 2022

Contemporary theories of suicide, such as the Schematic Appraisals Model (SAMS), hypothesize that negative perceptions of social support are implicated in the pathways to suicidal experiences. The SAMS predicts that perceived social support influences suicidal ideation through appraisals of defeat and entrapment. However, such pathways have not been investigated in people who have bipolar disorder. This prospective four-month study tested the influence of perceived social support on later suicidal ideation via changes in defeat, entrapment, and hopelessness, in a sample of eighty euthymic participants with bipolar disorder (N = 62 at follow-up). Linear regression models tested the extent to which perceived social support at baseline predicted changes in suicidal ideation at four months directly and indirectly via changes in defeat, entrapment, and hopelessness. Perceived social support did not directly predict changes in suicidal ideation, but there was a significant indirect mediational pathway between perceived social support at baseline and changes in suicidal ideation over time, via changes in defeat, entrapment and hopelessness, supporting the SAMS. Psychological interventions which target negative perceptions of social support early, in tandem with addressing defeat, entrapment, and hopelessness over time, present a potentially effective approach to counter suicidal ideation in people who experience bipolar disorder.
Functional and Structural Insights into Human PPARα/δ/γ Subtype Selectivity of Bezafibrate, Fenofibric Acid, and Pemafibrate
Authors: Honda Akihiro , Kamata Shotaro , Akahane Makoto , Machida Yui , Uchii Kie , Shiiyama Yui , Habu Yuki , Miyawaki Saeka , Kaneko Chihiro , Oyama Takuji , Ishii Isao
Published: April 2022

Among the agonists against three peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) subtypes, those against PPARα (fibrates) and PPARγ (glitazones) are currently used to treat dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes, respectively, whereas PPARδ agonists are expected to be the next-generation metabolic disease drug. In addition, some dual/pan PPAR agonists are currently being investigated via clinical trials as one of the first curative drugs against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Because PPARα/δ/γ share considerable amino acid identity and three-dimensional structures, especially in ligand-binding domains (LBDs), clinically approved fibrates, such as bezafibrate, fenofibric acid, and pemafibrate, could also act on PPARδ/γ when used as anti-NAFLD drugs. Therefore, this study examined their PPARα/δ/γ selectivity using three independent assays—a dual luciferase-based GAL4 transactivation assay for COS-7 cells, time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based coactivator recruitment assay, and circular dichroism spectroscopy-based thermostability assay. Although the efficacy and efficiency highly varied between agonists, assay types, and PPAR subtypes, the three fibrates, except fenofibric acid that did not affect PPARδ-mediated transactivation and coactivator recruitment, activated all PPAR subtypes in those assays. Furthermore, we aimed to obtain cocrystal structures of PPARδ/γ-LBD and the three fibrates via X-ray diffraction and versatile crystallization methods, which we recently used to obtain 34 structures of PPARα-LBD cocrystallized with 17 ligands, including the fibrates. We herein reveal five novel high-resolution structures of PPARδ/γ–bezafibrate, PPARγ–fenofibric acid, and PPARδ/γ–pemafibrate, thereby providing the molecular basis for their application beyond dyslipidemia treatment.
The Role of Telocytes and Telocyte-Derived Exosomes in the Development of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Aschacher Thomas , Aschacher Olivia , Schmidt Katy , Enzmann Florian K. , Eichmair Eva , Winkler Bernhard , Arnold Zsuzsanna , Nagel Felix , Podesser Bruno K. , Mitterbauer Andreas , Messner Barbara , Grabenwöger Martin , Laufer Günther , Ehrlich Marek P. , Bergmann Michael
Published: April 2022

A hallmark of thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) is the degenerative remodeling of aortic wall, which leads to progressive aortic dilatation and resulting in an increased risk for aortic dissection or rupture. Telocytes (TCs), a distinct type of interstitial cells described in many tissues and organs, were recently observed in the aortic wall, and studies showed the potential regulation of smooth muscle cell (SMC) homeostasis by TC-released shed vesicles. The purpose of the present work was to study the functions of TCs in medial degeneration of TAA. During aneurysmal formation an increase of aortic TCs was identified in human surgical specimens of TAA-patients, compared to healthy thoracic aortic (HTA)-tissue. We found the presence of epithelial progenitor cells in the adventitial layer, which showed increased infiltration in TAA samples. For functional analysis, HTA- and TAA-telocytes were isolated, characterized, and compared by their protein levels, mRNA- and miRNA-expression profiles. We detected TC and TC-released exosomes near SMCs. TAA-TC-exosomes showed a significant increase of the SMC-related dedifferentiation markers KLF-4-, VEGF-A-, and PDGF-A-protein levels, as well as miRNA-expression levels of miR-146a, miR-221 and miR-222. SMCs treated with TAA-TC-exosomes developed a dedifferentiation-phenotype. In conclusion, the study shows for the first time that TCs are involved in development of TAA and could play a crucial role in SMC phenotype switching by release of extracellular vesicles.
Inverse Mixed-Solvent Molecular Dynamics for Visualization of the Residue Interaction Profile of Molecular Probes
Authors: Yanagisawa Keisuke , Yoshino Ryunosuke , Kudo Genki , Hirokawa Takatsugu
Published: April 2022

To ensure efficiency in discovery and development, the application of computational technology is essential. Although virtual screening techniques are widely applied in the early stages of drug discovery research, the computational methods used in lead optimization to improve activity and reduce the toxicity of compounds are still evolving. In this study, we propose a method to construct the residue interaction profile of the chemical structure used in the lead optimization by performing “inverse” mixed-solvent molecular dynamics (MSMD) simulation. Contrary to constructing a protein-based, atom interaction profile, we constructed a probe-based, protein residue interaction profile using MSMD trajectories. It provides us the profile of the preferred protein environments of probes without co-crystallized structures. We assessed the method using three probes: benzamidine, catechol, and benzene. As a result, the residue interaction profile of each probe obtained by MSMD was a reasonable physicochemical description of the general non-covalent interaction. Moreover, comparison with the X-ray structure containing each probe as a ligand shows that the map of the interaction profile matches the arrangement of amino acid residues in the X-ray structure.
Visualization of WiFi Signals Using Programmable Transfer Functions
Authors: Rowden Alexander , Krokos Eric , Whitley Kirsten , Varshney Amitabh
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we show how volume rendering with a Programmable Transfer Function can be used for the effective and comprehensible visualization of WiFi signals. A traditional transfer function uses a low-dimensional lookup table to map the volumetric scalar field to color and opacity. In this paper, we present the concept of a Programmable Transfer Function. We then show how generalizing traditional lookup-based transfer functions to Programmable Transfer Functions enables us to leverage view-dependent and real-time attributes of a volumetric field to depict the data variations of WiFi surfaces with low and high-frequency components. Our Programmable Transfer Functions facilitate interactive knowledge discovery and produce meaningful visualizations.
A Comparative Analysis of Bombyx mori (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) β-fructofuranosidase Homologs Reveals Different Post-Translational Regulations in Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Zhao Yue , Yang Liangli , Chen Yu , Zhang Xinwei , Li Jing , Liang Dan , Jiang Song , Gao Junshan , Meng Yan
Published: April 2022

The silk-spinning and Lepidopteran model insect Bombyx mori (Bombycidae) is a mulberry specialist. The BmSuc1 gene is the first β-fructofuranosidase (β-FFase) encoding gene identified in animals, and β-FFase acts as an essential sucrase for glycometabolism modulation in the silkworm larvae, involved in resistance to mulberry alkaloids. Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is an important mulberry pest leading to heavy economic loss of sericulture. However, no molecular or biochemical information is available about G. pyloalis β-FFase homologs. In this study, five β-FFase homologous genes in G. pyloalis were obtained. The genes GpSuc1a and GpSuc2c were expressed in the midgut; GpSuc2c encodes a truncated polypeptide. The expression and the localization of GpSUC1a in the midgut was characterized. Whereas recombinant GpSUC1a expressed in both Escherichia coli and BmN cells displayed little activity as compared with higher activity of BmSUC1, β-FFase activity in the larval midgut of G. pyloalis and GpSUC1a purified from the midgut were both confirmed. The data suggested that the activation of GpSUC1a is probably controlled by a more complicated post-translational regulation system in G. pyloalis larvae than that of BmSUC1 in B. mori. To study post-translational modifications (PTMs), GpSUC1a and BmSUC1 were purified from larval midguts using immunoprecipitation and subjected to LC-MS to perform PTMs analysis. Some putative N-glycosylated sites were found in GpSUC1a but none in BmSUC1, while there was more methylation in BmSUC1 than in GpSUC1a, indicating that such PTMs were supporting the differential β-FFases activities in these two mulberry feeding caterpillars.
A New Species in Notobitiella Hsiao in China Confirmed by Morphological and Molecular Data (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Coreidae)
Authors: Jiang Kun , Chen Juhong , Bu Wenjun
Published: April 2022

To date, only one species of genus Notobitiella, N. elegans Hsiao, was found in Yunnan, China. Recently, we confirmed a new species, Notobitiella bispinasp. nov., by morphological and molecular data based on new specimens collected from Yunnan, China. The new species is morphologically similar to N. elegans except for the male genitalia and the sternum of the seventh abdominal segment of the female. The extraordinary difference of the genitalia between these two species inspired us to erect a new genus for this new species. However, considering their sister group relationship to other genera in tribe Cloresmini and the 12.56~12.64% genetic distance (meeting the interspecific genetic distance within genus of tribe Cloresmini) by a complete COI gene, this species was more reasonable as a new species of the genus Notobitiella, and the diagnosis of the genus was revised. The photos of the body and critical morphological characteristics for both male and female were provided for accurate identification.
Compound Structure–Composition Control on the Mechanical Properties of Selective Laser-Melted Titanium Alloys
Authors: Yang Guang , Cui Botao , Wang Congyu , Zhang Yongdi , Guo Chongchong , Wang Congwei
Published: April 2022

In the performance optimization of the additive manufacturing of Ti6Al4V components, conventional control methods have difficulty taking into account the requirements of quality and mechanical properties of components, resulting in insufficient mechanical properties and a small control range. Therefore, combining the advantages of porous structure and alloy composition control, this paper proposed a structure–composition composite control method for selective laser-fused titanium alloy components by coupling the effects of porous structure parameters and boron content on the properties of Ti6Al4V components. Based on the Gibson–Ashby formula, the compression test of porous Ti6Al4V alloy and the tensile test of boron-containing Ti6Al4V alloy were carried out by SLM forming technology. The parameters C and n related to the pore parameters of porous structure were solved by the experimental data, and the analytical relationship between the pore parameters and the mechanical properties of Ti6Al4V alloy was established. The analytical relationship between boron content (t wt%) and mechanical properties of the alloy was established by tensile test. Finally, the Gibson–Ashby formula was used to combine the above analytical relationship, and a composite regulation model of compressive strength was obtained. The results show that the control range of the composite model ranges from 19.46–416.47 MPa, which was 45.53% higher than that obtained by controlling only pore parameters, and performance improved by 42.49%. The mechanical properties of the model are verified and the deviation between calculated values and experimental values was less than 1.3%. Taking aviation rocker arm as an example, the optimized design can improve the strength and reduce the mass of rocker arm by 51.94%. This method provides a theoretical basis for expanding the application of Ti6Al4V additive manufacturing components in aerospace and other fields.
Two-Scale Homogenization of Piezoelectric Perforated Structures
Authors: Mechkour Houari
Published: April 2022

We are interested in the homogenization of the elastic-electric coupling equation with rapidly oscillating coefficients, in a periodically perforated piezoelectric body. The holes, whose size are supposed to tend to zero, are periodically distributed. We give a new approach, based on the two-scale convergence, and we justify the two first terms in the usual asymptotic development of the solution. A two-scale homogenized system is obtained as the limit of the periodic problem, and explicit formulae of elastic, piezoelectric and dielectric homogenized coefficients are reported. In the static limit, the method provides homogenized electroelastic coefficients coinciding with those deducted from alternative approaches.
Do Airports Have Their Own Climate?
Authors: Gough William A. , Leung Andrew C. W.
Published: April 2022

Sixty-four airport climate records were examined across Canada. Day-to-day (DTD) temperature variability metrics were used to assess the nature of the local environment. In total, 86% of the airports were assessed as peri-urban, reflective of either their location at the fringe of the urban centers or the creation of a peri-urban microclimate by the airport itself. The remaining nine stations were identified using a previously identified metric as marine, or “mountain”, a new category developed in this study. The analysis included a proposal for a decision flow chart to identify the nature of the local climate based on DTD thermal variability. An analysis of the peri-urban thermal metric and population indicated that a peri-urban climate was consistently identified for airports independent of the magnitude of the local population (or urbanization), lending support to the idea of a localized “airport” climate that matched peri-urban characteristics.
Modeling and Parameter Sensitivity Improvement in ΔE-Effect Magnetic Sensor Based on Mode Localization Effect
Authors: Lyu Haoqi , Wang Zheng , Yang Wuhao , Xiong Xingyin , Liu Zhenxi , Zou Xudong
Published: April 2022

A mode-localized ΔE-effect magnetic sensor model is established theoretically and numerically. Based on the designed weakly coupled resonators with multi-layer film structure, it is investigated how the ΔE-effect of the magnetostrictive film under the external magnetic field causes the stiffness perturbation of the coupled resonators to induce the mode localization effect. Using the amplitude ratio (AR) as the output in the mode-localized ΔE-effect magnetic sensor can improve the relative sensitivity by three orders of magnitude compared with the traditional frequency output, which has been verified by simulations based on the finite element method (FEM). In addition, the effects of material properties and geometric dimensions on sensor performance parameters, such as sensitivity, linear range, and static operating point are also analyzed and studied in detail, providing the theoretical basis for the design and optimization of the mode-localized ΔE-effect magnetic sensor in different application scenarios. By reasonably optimizing the key parameters of the weekly coupled resonators, a mode-localized ΔE-effect magnetic sensor with the sensitivity of 18 AR/mT and a linear range of 0.8 mT can be achieved.
Production of High-Quality Coarse Recycled Aggregates through a Two-Stage Jigging Process
Authors: Gschwenter Viviane L. S. , Tubino Rejane M. C. , Ambrós Weslei M. , Miltzarek Gerson L. , Sampaio Carlos Hoffmann , Moncunill Josep Oliva , Cazacliu Bogdan Grigore , Dal Molin Denise C. C.
Published: April 2022

The use of recycled aggregates (RA) to replace natural aggregates (NA) in new concrete production has been pointed out as one of the main strategies to close the loop of construction materials. However, producing RA with properties similar to those of NA has been challenging, since current recycling methods struggle to remove contaminants like ceramics and mortar, whose presence impairs RA properties. In this study, a processing route consisting of a two-stage separation in hydraulic jig was tested, aiming to produce RA from a representative sample of Brazilian construction and demolition waste. All material streams generated in the tests were characterized in terms of composition, size distribution, density, shape index, and water absorption. The results indicated the possibility to produce a high-quality RA, containing more than 99.5% mass of concrete, with adequate properties to replace NA in new concrete production. Also, a conventional RA with suitable properties for downcycling uses (for example, base and sub-base material) could be obtained as a co-product. Finally, the results showed it was possible to recover more than 75% of the original concrete in Construction and Demolition Waste CDW, avoiding its disposal as waste.
Application of MEMS-Based Accelerometers for Near-Field Monitoring of Blasting-Induced Seismicity
Authors: Fuławka Krzysztof , Mertuszka Piotr , Szumny Marcin , Stolecki Lech , Szczerbiński Krzysztof
Published: April 2022

Proper monitoring of seismic risk and reliable evaluation of destress blasting efficiency requires a well-developed seismic network surrounding the analyzed area. Unfortunately, the construction of a dense seismic monitoring system using standard types of seismometers and accelerometers is associated with high costs of seismic network development and maintenance. Significant improvements in this regard may be potentially achieved by replacing expensive monitoring devices with other cost-effective sensors such as MEMS-based accelerometers. Nevertheless, this topic has not been sufficiently investigated yet, and the usefulness of such devices for monitoring seismicity in deep underground mines has not been recognized. The goal of this paper was to perform preliminary measurements of blasting-induced seismicity in the near-wave field with the use of a single three-axial MEMS-based accelerometer and three uniaxial seismometers. The collected seismic records induced by multi-face blasting were compared in time and frequency domains. In the time domain, the values of 3D peak motion plots were analyzed, and the possibility of identification of subsequent delay times in recorded waveforms was investigated. In the case of frequency distribution, the Power Spectrum Density plots were calculated and compared. The results of the analysis proved that MEMS-based accelerometers provide reliable results and may be successfully implemented for regular use in underground seismic monitoring systems.
Manipulating the Assembly of Au Nanoclusters for Luminescence Enhancement and Circularly Polarized Luminescence
Authors: Wang Chen , Feng Luyao , Liu Junxiao , Fu Jing , Shen Jinglin , Qi Wei
Published: April 2022

Au nanocluster (AuNCs)-based luminescent functional materials have attracted the interest of researchers owing to their small size, tractable surface modification, phosphorescence lifetime and biocompatibility. However, the poor luminescence quantum yield (QY) of AuNCs limits their practical applications. Herein, we synthesized a type of AuNCs modified by 4,6-diamino-2-mercaptopyrimidine hydrate (DPT-AuNCs). Furthermore, organic acids, i.e., citric acid (CA) and tartaric acid (TA), were chosen for co-assembly with DPT-AuNCs to produce AuNCs-based luminescent materials with enhanced emission. Firstly, it was found that CA could significantly enhance the emission of DPT−AuNCs with the formation of red emission nanofibers (QY = 17.31%), which showed a potential for usage in I− detection. The n···π/π···π interaction between the CA and the DPT ligand was proposed as crucial for the emission. Moreover, chiral TA could not only improve the emission of DPT-AuNCs, but could also transfer its chirality to DPT-AuNCs and induce the formation of circularly polarized luminescence (CPL)-active nanofibers. It was demonstrated that the CPL signal could increase 4.6-fold in a ternary CA/TA/DPT-AuNCs co-assembly system. This work provides a convenient way to build AuNCs-based luminescent materials as probes, and opens a new avenue for building CPL-active materials by achiral NCs through a co-assembly strategy.
Flexible and Transparent Electrode Based on Ag-Nanowire Embedded Colorless Poly(amide-imide)
Authors: Lee Jaegun , Choi Ju-Young , Jang Junhwan , Park Sechang , Ji Gyumin , Lee Seung-Hyun , Kim Dam-Bi , Yoon Kang-Hoon , Chung Chan-Moon , Cho Soohaeng
Published: April 2022

Graphene oxide-cysteamine-silver nanoparticle (GCA)/silver nanowire (AgNW)/GCA/colorless poly(amide-imide) (cPAI) structures based on cPAI substrates with polyimide and polyamide syntheses were fabricated to study their characteristics. A layer of electrodes was constructed using a sandwich structure—such as GCA/AgNW/GCA—with cPAI used as a substrate to increase the heat resistance and improve their mechanical properties. Furthermore, to overcome the disadvantages of AgNWs—such as their high surface roughness and weak adhesion between the substrate and electrode layers—electrodes with embedded structures were fabricated using a peel-off process. Through bending, tapping, and durability tests, it was confirmed that these multilayer electrodes exhibited better mechanical durability than conventional AgNW electrodes. Resistive random-access memory based on GCA/AgNW/GCA/cPAI electrodes was fabricated, and its applicability to nonvolatile memory was confirmed. The memory device had an ON/OFF current ratio of ~104@0.5 V, exhibiting write-once-read-many time characteristics, maintaining these memory characteristics for up to 300 sweep cycles. These findings suggest that GCA/AgNW/GCA/cPAI electrodes could be used as flexible and transparent electrodes for next-generation flexible nonvolatile memories.
A Novel Method for Carbon Nanotube Functionalization Using Immobilized Candida antarctica Lipase
Authors: Guzmán-Mendoza José Jesús , Chávez-Flores David , Montes-Fonseca Silvia Lorena , González-Horta Carmen , Orrantia-Borunda Erasmo , Sánchez-Ramírez Blanca
Published: April 2022

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been proposed as nanovehicles for drug or antigen delivery since they can be functionalized with different biomolecules. For this purpose, different types of molecules have been chemically bonded to CNTs; however, this method has low efficiency and generates solvent waste. Candida antarctica lipase is an enzyme that, in an organic solvent, can bind a carboxylic to a hydroxyl group by esterase activity. The objective of this work was to functionalize purified CNTs with insulin as a protein model using an immobilized lipase of Candida antarctica to develop a sustainable functionalization method with high protein attachment. The functionalized CNTs were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS–PAGE). The enzymatic functionalization of insulin on the surface of the CNTs was found to have an efficiency of 21%, which is higher in conversion and greener than previously reported by the diimide-activated amidation method. These results suggest that enzymatic esterification is a convenient and efficient method for CNT functionalization with proteins. Moreover, this functionalization method can be used to enhance the cellular-specific release of proteins by lysosomal esterases.
Supplementation with Milk-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Shapes the Gut Microbiota and Regulates the Transcriptomic Landscape in Experimental Colitis
Authors: Du Chunmei , Wang Kun , Zhao Yiguang , Nan Xuemei , Chen Ruipeng , Quan Suyu , Xiong Benhai
Published: April 2022

Harboring various proteins, lipids, and RNAs, the extracellular vesicles (EVs) in milk exert vital tissue-specific immune-protective functions in neonates via these bioactive cargos. This study aims to explore the anti-inflammatory effects of bovine milk-derived EVs on a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis model and to determine the underlying molecular mechanisms. Sixty C57BL/6 mice were divided into the NC group (normal control), DSS group (DSS + PBS), DSS + LOW group (DSS + 1.5 × 108 p/g EVs), DSS + MID group (DSS + 1.5 × 109 p/g EVs), and DSS + HIG group (DSS + 1.0 × 1010 p/g EVs). Histopathological sections, the gut microbiota, and intestinal tissue RNA-Seq were used to comprehensively evaluate the beneficial functions in mitigating colitis. The morphology exhibited that the milk-derived EVs contributed to the integrity of the superficial epithelial structure in the intestine. Additionally, the concentrations of IL-6 and TNF-α in the colon tissues were significantly decreased in the EVs-treated mice. The abundances of the Dubosiella, Bifidobacterium, UCG-007, Lachnoclostridium, and Lachnospiraceae genera were increased in the gut after treatment with the milk-derived EVs. Additionally, the butyrate and acetate production were enriched in feces. In addition, 1659 genes were significantly down-regulated and 1981 genes were significantly up-regulated in the EVs-treated group. Meanwhile, 82 lncRNAs and 6 circRNAs were also differentially expressed. Overall, the milk-derived EVs could attenuate colitis through optimizing gut microbiota abundance and by manipulating intestinal gene expression, implying their application potential for colitis prevention.
Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract Promotes Healing of Infected Wounds in Diabetic Rats: Evidence of Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Proliferative Properties
Authors: Al-Ghanayem Abdullah A. , Alhussaini Mohammed Sanad , Asad Mohammed , Joseph Babu
Published: April 2022

Moringa oleifera is known to possess wound healing activity. The present study evaluated the healing properties of methanolic extract of M. oleifera leaves in excision wounds infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or P. aeruginosa in diabetic rats. An in vitro study was also carried out to determine the gene expression of VEGF and TGF-β1. Preliminary phytochemical and GC-MS analyses were carried out to determine different chemical constituents present in the extract. M. oleifera was applied locally as an ointment at two different concentrations. Wound contraction, period of epithelization, antioxidant enzyme activities and histological changes were determined. For the gene expression study, HaCaT cell lines were used. The formulation of M. oleifera extract improved wound contraction and decreased the period of epithelization, which was associated with an increase in antioxidant enzyme activities, epithelization, capillary density and collagen formation in MRSA-infected diabetic rats. However, this effect was reduced in diabetic animals infected with P. aeruginosa. An increase in the expression of VEGF and TGF-β1 was observed in HaCaT cell lines. M. oleifera extract promotes the healing of infected wounds in MRSA-infected diabetic rats but is less effective in the healing of wounds infected with P. aeruginosa in diabetic rats.
miR-182-5p Regulates Nogo-A Expression and Promotes Neurite Outgrowth of Hippocampal Neurons In Vitro
Authors: Soto Altea , Nieto-Díaz Manuel , Reigada David , Barreda-Manso María Asunción , Muñoz-Galdeano Teresa , Maza Rodrigo M.
Published: April 2022

Nogo-A protein is a key myelin-associated inhibitor of axonal growth, regeneration, and plasticity in the central nervous system (CNS). Regulation of the Nogo-A/NgR1 pathway facilitates functional recovery and neural repair after spinal cord trauma and ischemic stroke. MicroRNAs are described as effective tools for the regulation of important processes in the CNS, such as neuronal differentiation, neuritogenesis, and plasticity. Our results show that miR-182-5p mimic specifically downregulates the expression of the luciferase reporter gene fused to the mouse Nogo-A 3′UTR, and Nogo-A protein expression in Neuro-2a and C6 cells. Finally, we observed that when rat primary hippocampal neurons are co-cultured with C6 cells transfected with miR-182-5p mimic, there is a promotion of the outgrowth of neuronal neurites in length. From all these data, we suggest that miR-182-5p may be a potential therapeutic tool for the promotion of axonal regeneration in different diseases of the CNS.
Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Evaluation of a Phytochemical Intercalated into Layered Double Hydroxide
Authors: Guilherme Viviane A. , Cunha Vanessa R. R. , de Paula Eneida , de Araujo Daniele R. , Constantino Vera R. L.
Published: April 2022

Coumaric acid (CouH), an antioxidant molecule assimilated by food consumption, was intercalated into layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanocarrier, having zinc and aluminium ions in the layers (LDH-Cou), to evaluate its pharmacological activity through in vitro and in vivo assays in mice. Therefore, the following tests were performed: coumarate delivery in saline solution, fibroblasts’ cell viability using neutral red, peritonitis induced by carrageenan, formalin test, acetic-acid-induced writhing, and tail-flick assay, for the non-intercalated CouH and the intercalated LDH-Cou system. Furthermore, different pharmacological pathways were also investigated to evaluate their possible anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive mechanisms of action, in comparison to traditionally used agents (morphine, naloxone, caffeine, and indomethacin). The LDH-Cou drug delivery system showed more pronounced anti-inflammatory effect than CouH but not more than that evoked by the classic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indomethacin. For the analgesic effect, according to the tail-flick test, the treatment with LDH-Cou expressively increased the analgesia duration (p < 0.001) by approximately 1.7–1.8 times compared to CouH or indomethacin. Thus, the results pointed out that the LDH-Cou system induced in vivo analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities and possibly uses similar mechanisms to that observed for classic NSAIDs, such as indomethacin.
Binocular Vision-Based Yarn Orientation Measurement of Biaxial Weft-Knitted Composites
Authors: Xiang He , Jiang Yaming , Zhou Yiying , Malengier Benny , Van Langenhove Lieva
Published: April 2022

The mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced composites are highly dependent on the local fiber orientation. In this study, a low-cost yarn orientation reconstruction approach for the composite components’ surface was built, utilizing binocular structured light detection technology to accomplish the effective fiber orientation detection of composite surfaces. It enables the quick acquisition of samples of the revolving body shape without blind spots with an electric turntable. Four collecting operations may completely cover the sample surface, the trajectory recognition coverage rate reached 80%, and the manual verification of the yarn space deviation showed good agreement with the automated technique. The results demonstrated that the developed system based on the proposed method can achieve the automatic recognition of yarn paths of views with different angles, which mostly satisfied quality control criteria in actual manufacturing processes.
Electromagnetic Wave-Absorbing and Bending Properties of Three-Dimensional Gradient Woven Composites with Triangular Sections
Authors: Zhang Huawei , Zhou Xinghai , Gao Yuan , Wang Ying , Liao Yongping , Wu Liwei , Lyu Lihua
Published: April 2022

In order to solve defects such as poor integrity, delamination failure, and narrow absorption bandwidth, three-dimensional (3D) gradient honeycomb woven composites (GHWCs) with triangular sections were designed and prepared. Three-dimensional gradient honeycomb woven fabric was crafted with carbon fiber (CF) filaments and basalt fiber (BF) filaments as raw materials on an ordinary loom. Then, the 3D honeycomb woven fabric filled with rigid polyurethane foam was used as the reinforcement, and epoxy resin (EP) doped with carbon black (CB) and carbonyl iron powder (CIP) was conducted as the matrix. The 3D GHWC with triangular sections, which had both EM-absorbing and load-bearing functions, was prepared by the VARTM process. Through the macro test and micro characterization of 3D GHWCs with triangular sections, the overall absorbing properties and mechanical properties of the materials were analyzed. Moreover, the EM-absorbing mechanism and failure mode of the materials were clarified in this work. The results indicated that the CF filament reflective layer effectively improved the EM-absorbing and mechanical properties. Adding a CB/CIP-absorbing agent enhanced the overall EM-absorbing property but reduced the mechanical properties. The increasing number of gradient layers increased the maximum bending load, but the EM-absorbing performance first increased and then decreased. When the thickness was 15 mm, the maximum bending load was 3530 N, and the minimum reflection loss (RLmin) was −21.6 dB. The synergistic effects of EM-absorbing and mechanical properties were the best right now. In addition, this work provided a feasible strategy that adjusting the type of absorber and gradient aperture size ratio could meet the unique requirements of absorbing frequency and intensity, which has excellent application prospects in civil and military fields.
Adsorption Mechanism of Chloropropanol by Crystalline Nanocellulose
Authors: Zhao Jinwei , Gong Zhiqiang , Chen Can , Liang Chen , Huang Lin , Huang Meijiao , Qin Chengrong , Wang Shuangfei
Published: April 2022

Paper packaging materials are widely used as sustainable green materials in food packaging. The production or processing of paper materials is conducted in an environment that contains organic chlorides; therefore, potential food safety issues exist. In this study, the adsorption behavior of organic chlorides on paper materials was investigated. Chloropropanol, which has been extensively studied in the field of food safety, was employed as the research object. We studied the adsorption mechanism of chloropropanol on a crystalline nanocellulose (CNC) model. The results demonstrated that physical adsorption was the prevailing process, and the intermolecular hydrogen bonds acted as the driving force for adsorption. The adsorption effect assumed greatest significance under neutral and weakly alkaline conditions. A good linear relationship between the amount of chloropropanol adsorbed and the amount of CNC used was discovered. Thus, the findings of this study are crucial in monitoring the safety of products in systems containing chloropropanol and other chlorinated organic substances. This is particularly critical in the production of food-grade paper packaging materials.