bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Late-Night Overeating or Low-Quality Food Choices Late at Night Are Associated with Subclinical Vascular Damage in Patients at Increased Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Basdeki Eirini D. , Koumi Konstantina , Tsirimiagkou Christiana , Argyris Antonios , Chrysostomou Stavri , Sfikakis Petros P. , Protogerou Athanase D. , Karatzi Kalliopi
Published: January 2022

Late-night overeating (LNO) is associated with several cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. Limited data exist regarding the association between late-night (LN) systematic food consumption, LNO, and LN poor food quality with subclinical vascular damage (SVD) which precedes the onset of CVD. This study aimed to investigate the above associations with SVD in a large sample of adults, free of established CVD, with one or more CVD risk factors. In total, 901 adults (45.2% males) underwent anthropometric, dietary (through two 24 h dietary recalls) and vascular assessment. LN systematic eating was defined as consumption of food after 19:00 h in both dietary recalls and LNO was defined as systematic consumption of >40% of daily total energy intake (dTEI) after 19:00 h. Systematic LN food consumption was inversely associated with diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (−1.44 95% C.I. (−2.76, −0.12)) after adjusting for age, sex, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, BMI and dTEI. LNO was positively associated with existence of carotid plaques (1.70 95% C.I. (1.07, 2.68)), while LN increased consumption of red meat, refined grains and wine and low consumption of whole wheat grains was positively associated with Aix (Augmentation Index) (0.84 95% C.I. (0.09, 1.59)), after adjusting for all the mentioned confounders. Systematic LN eating is associated with lower DBP while systematic LNO and consumption of poor-quality food late at night, is associated with SVD. Further research is needed to define more accurately the impact of LN eating habits on vascular health.
Comparative Effect of Bergamot Polyphenolic Fraction and Red Yeast Rice Extract in Rats Fed a Hyperlipidemic Diet: Role of Antioxidant Properties and PCSK9 Expression
Authors: Mollace Rocco , Macrì Roberta , Tavernese Annamaria , Gliozzi Micaela , Musolino Vincenzo , Carresi Cristina , Maiuolo Jessica , Fini Massimo , Volterrani Maurizio , Mollace Vincenzo
Published: January 2022

Elevated serum cholesterol levels, either associated or not with increased triglycerides, represent a risk of developing vascular injury, mostly leading to atherothrombosis-related diseases including myocardial infarction and stroke. Natural products have been investigated in the last few decades as they are seen to offer an alternative solution to counteract cardiometabolic risk, due to the occurrence of side effects with the use of statins, the leading drugs for treating hyperlipidemias. Red yeast rice (RYR), a monacolin K-rich natural extract, has been found to be effective in counteracting high cholesterol, being its use accompanied by consistent warnings by regulatory authorities based on the potential detrimental responses accompanying its statin-like chemical charcateristics. Here we compared the effects of RYR with those produced by bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF), a well-known natural extract proven to be effective in lowering both serum cholesterol and triglycerides in animals fed a hyperlipidemic diet. In particular, BPF at doses of 10 mg/Kg given orally for 30 consecutive days, counteracted the elevation of both serum LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides induced by the hyperlipidemic diet, an effect which was accompanied by significant reductions of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase serum levels, two biomarkers of oxidative stress. Furthermore, the activity of BPF was associated to increased HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and to strong reduction of Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) levels which were found increased in hyperlipidemic rats. In contrast, RYR at doses of 1 and 3 mg/Kg, produced only significant reduction of LDL-C with very poor effects on triglycerides, HDL-C, glutathione peroxidase, MDA and PCSK9 expression. This indicates that while BPF and RYR both produce serum cholesterol-lowering benefits, BPF produces additional effects on triglycerides and HDL cholesterol compared to RYR at the doses used throughout the study. These additional effects of BPF appear to be related to the reduction of PCSK9 expression and to the antioxidant properties of this extract compared to RYR, thereby suggesting a more complete protection from cardiometabolic risk.
What Do We Know about the Microbiome in Cystic Fibrosis? Is There a Role for Probiotics and Prebiotics?
Authors: van Dorst Josie M. , Tam Rachel Y. , Ooi Chee Y.
Published: January 2022

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-shortening genetic disorder that affects the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. In the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, CFTR dysfunction results in low intestinal pH, thick and inspissated mucus, a lack of endogenous pancreatic enzymes, and reduced motility. These mechanisms, combined with antibiotic therapies, drive GI inflammation and significant alteration of the GI microbiota (dysbiosis). Dysbiosis and inflammation are key factors in systemic inflammation and GI complications including malignancy. The following review examines the potential for probiotic and prebiotic therapies to provide clinical benefits through modulation of the microbiome. Evidence from randomised control trials suggest probiotics are likely to improve GI inflammation and reduce the incidence of CF pulmonary exacerbations. However, the highly variable, low-quality data is a barrier to the implementation of probiotics into routine CF care. Epidemiological studies and clinical trials support the potential of dietary fibre and prebiotic supplements to beneficially modulate the microbiome in gastrointestinal conditions. To date, limited evidence is available on their safety and efficacy in CF. Variable responses to probiotics and prebiotics highlight the need for personalised approaches that consider an individual’s underlying microbiota, diet, and existing medications against the backdrop of the complex nutritional needs in CF.
Associations between Pregnancy-Related Symptoms, Serum 25(OH)D, and Physical Quality of Life in Pregnant Women
Authors: Woo Jennifer , Penckofer Susan , Fagan Marcus , Giurgescu Carmen
Published: January 2022

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with pregnancy-related symptoms including fatigue, poor sleep quality, and musculoskeletal pain. Pregnant Black and Hispanic women are more likely to have vitamin D deficiency compared with pregnant non-Hispanic White women. Data are limited on the association of vitamin D deficiency with quality of life (QOL) among pregnant women. This study examined the association of serum 25(OH)D and pregnancy-related symptoms with QOL among pregnant predominantly minority women. Using a cross-sectional design, 119 pregnant Black and Hispanic women completed surveys and had blood drawn for serum 25(OH)D levels between 24–32 weeks gestation. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that total pregnancy-related symptoms and serum 25(OH)D level were significant predictors of QOL, while controlling for covariates. Higher total pregnancy-related symptoms and lower serum 25(OH)D predicted poorer physical QOL. Screening for pregnancy-related symptoms and vitamin D levels among childbearing women might be important nursing interventions to improve physical QOL.
From the Bench to the Bedside: Branched Amino Acid and Micronutrient Strategies to Improve Mitochondrial Dysfunction Leading to Sarcopenia
Authors: Romani Mario , Berger Mette M. , D’Amelio Patrizia
Published: January 2022

With extended life expectancy, the older population is constantly increasing, and consequently, so too is the prevalence of age-related disorders. Sarcopenia, the pathological age-related loss of muscle mass and function; and malnutrition, the imbalance in nutrient intake and resultant energy production, are both commonly occurring conditions in old adults. Altered nutrition plays a crucial role in the onset of sarcopenia, and both these disorders are associated with detrimental consequences for patients (e.g., frailty, morbidity, and mortality) and society (e.g., healthcare costs). Importantly, sarcopenia and malnutrition also share critical molecular alterations, such as mitochondrial dysfunction, increased oxidative stress, and a chronic state of low grade and sterile inflammation, defined as inflammageing. Given the connection between malnutrition and sarcopenia, nutritional interventions capable of affecting mitochondrial health and correcting inflammageing are emerging as possible strategies to target sarcopenia. Here, we discuss mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammageing as key features leading to sarcopenia. Moreover, we examine the effects of some branched amino acids, omega-3 PUFA, and selected micronutrients on these pathways, and their potential role in modulating sarcopenia, warranting further clinical investigation.
Nutrient Intakes among Brazilian Children Need Improvement and Show Differences by Region and Socioeconomic Level
Authors: Anater Andrea S. , Hampton Joel C. , Lopes Tássia do Vale Cardoso , Giuntini Eliana B. , Campos Vanessa C. , Harnack Lisa J. , Lorenzana Peasley Julia M. , Eldridge Alison L.
Published: January 2022

Brazil is the most populous country in South America. Using 24 h dietary data, we compared the nutrient intakes of 4–13-year-olds to reference values and tested for regional and socioeconomic (SES) differences. A considerable proportion reported intakes below the Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) for vitamins E (78.1%, 96.5%), D (100% for both), and calcium (80.5%, 97.7%) for 4–8 and 9–13-year-olds, respectively. Few exceeded Adequate Intakes (AI) for potassium or fiber. Older children reported greater inadequacies and, while there was regional variability, patterns of inadequacy and excess tended to be similar. For vitamin C, the percent of children below EAR in the Northeast and Southeast was lower than in the South. Most children, regardless of SES, had energy intakes within the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Ranges (AMDRs) for carbohydrates and protein. Over a quarter reported total energy from fat less than the AMDR, and inversely associated with SES (low 50.9%, moderate 26.0%, and high 15.0%), but also exceeding the percentage of energy recommendation for saturated fat, increasing with SES (low 18.1%, moderate 38.9%, and high 48.8%). The contrast observed between the diets of young Brazilians and recommendations underscores the need for individual and regional environmental interventions to promote healthier dietary patterns.
Cod Liver Oil, but Not Retinoic Acid, Treatment Restores Bone Thickness in a Vitamin A-Deficient Rat
Authors: Baybutt Richard C. , Standard Joseph T. , Dim Daniel , Quinn Tim , Hamdan Hana , Lin Dingbo , Kunz Kyle , Bomstein Zachary S. , Estorge Benjamin J. , Herndon Betty , Zia Hamid , Mansour Ahmad , Lankachandra Manesha , Molteni Agostino
Published: January 2022

Vitamin A plays a prominent role for maintaining optimal bone status, but its impact upon the bone in response to vitamin A deficiency is not well defined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how replenishing vitamin A by either whole food cod liver oil (COD) or the active metabolite of vitamin A, retinoic acid (RA), altered bone thickness of vitamin A-deficient (VAD) rats. Weanling rats were administered a control diet (CTRL) or VAD diet for 9 weeks. This was followed by four weeks of treatment in which the VAD group was divided into the following 4 subgroups: (1) VAD (9 weeks)-VAD (4 weeks); (2) VAD-CTRL; (3) VAD-COD; and (4) VAD-RA. Compared to controls, VAD rats had thicker bones which showed marked dysplasia. VAD-rats treated with COD produced a thinner bone that was not significantly different from that of untreated rats. In contrast, RA did not significantly change the thicker bone, and also had significantly greater periosteal and endosteal osteoblast numbers compared to VAD-COD. Active osteoclasts were not detected in VAD rats, nor during the treatment period. These findings suggest that the abnormal bone thickness in VAD rats appears to be more effectively restored to bone thickness of untreated control rats when treated with COD.
Compliance, Adherence and Concordance Differently Predict the Improvement of Uremic and Microbial Toxins in Chronic Kidney Disease on Low Protein Diet
Authors: De Mauri Andreana , Carrera Deborah , Vidali Matteo , Bagnati Marco , Rolla Roberta , Riso Sergio , Torreggiani Massimo , Chiarinotti Doriana
Published: January 2022

Background. In medicine, “compliance” indicates that the patient complies with the prescriber’s recommendations, “adherence” means that “the patient matches the recommendations” and “concordance” means “therapeutic alliance” between patient and clinician. While a low protein diet (LPD) is a cornerstone treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD), monitoring the actual performance of LPD is a challenge. Patients. Fifty-seven advanced CKD adult patients were enrolled and LPD prescribed. Compliance was evaluated through the normalized protein catabolic rate (nPCR), adherence by the dietitian by means of a 24-h dietary recall and concordance by the nephrologist during consultations. Traditional parameters as well as total p-Cresyl Sulphate (t-PCS), total Indoxyl Sulphate (t-IS) and Lipoprotein-associated phspholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) were compared between adherent/not adherent and concordant/not concordant subjects at enrolment and after two months. Results. nPCR, blood urea nitrogen, cholesterol and triglycerides significantly decreased in all patients. t-PCS and t-IS decreased among adherent subjects. Lp-PLA2, t-PCS, free-PCS and t-IS decreased among concordant subjects, while these increased in non-concordant ones. Conclusion. This study demonstrates that LPD may improve the control of traditional uremic toxins and atherogenic toxins in “adherent” and “concordant” patients. A comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach is needed to evaluate the compliance/adherence/concordance to LPD for optimizing nutritional interventions.
Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Cardiometabolic Health: An Energy Metabolism Perspective
Authors: Dote-Montero Manuel , Sanchez-Delgado Guillermo , Ravussin Eric
Published: January 2022

This review summarizes the effects of different types of intermittent fasting (IF) on human cardiometabolic health, with a focus on energy metabolism. First, we discuss the coordinated metabolic adaptations (energy expenditure, hormonal changes and macronutrient oxidation) occurring during a 72 h fast. We then discuss studies investigating the effects of IF on cardiometabolic health, energy expenditure and substrate oxidation. Finally, we discuss how IF may be optimized by combining it with exercise. In general, IF regimens improve body composition, ectopic fat, and classic cardiometabolic risk factors, as compared to unrestricted eating, especially in metabolically unhealthy participants. However, it is still unclear whether IF provides additional cardiometabolic benefits as compared to continuous daily caloric restriction (CR). Most studies found no additional benefits, yet some preliminary data suggest that IF regimens may provide cardiometabolic benefits in the absence of weight loss. Finally, although IF and continuous daily CR appear to induce similar changes in energy expenditure, IF regimens may differentially affect substrate oxidation, increasing protein and fat oxidation. Future tightly controlled studies are needed to unravel the underlying mechanisms of IF and its role in cardiometabolic health and energy metabolism.
Antiviral Effects of Artemisinin and Its Derivatives against SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease: Computational Evidences and Interactions with ACE2 Allelic Variants
Authors: Badraoui Riadh , Saoudi Mongi , Hamadou Walid S. , Elkahoui Salem , Siddiqui Arif J. , Alam Jahoor M. , Jamal Arshad , Adnan Mohd , Suliemen Abdel M. E. , Alreshidi Mousa M. , Yadav Dharmendra K. , Naïli Houcine , Ben-Nasr Hmed
Published: January 2022

Fighting against the emergent coronavirus disease (COVID-19) remains a big challenge at the front of the world communities. Recent research has outlined the potential of various medicinal herbs to counteract the infection. This study aimed to evaluate the interaction of artemisinin, a sesquiterpene lactone extracted from the Artemisia genus, and its derivatives with the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. To assess their potential use against COVID-19, the interactions of the main active principle of Artemisia with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) main protease (Mpro) was investigated through in silico probing. Our results showed that artemesinin and its derivatives manifested good oral absorption and bioavailability scores (0.55). They potently bound to the Mpro site of action—specifically, to its Cys145 residue. The selected compounds established two to three conventional hydrogen bonds with binding affinities ranging between −5.2 and −8.1 kcal/mol. Furthermore, artemisinin interactions with angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) were dependent on the ACE2 allelic variants. The best score was recorded with rs961360700. A molecular dynamic simulation showed sufficient stability of the artemisinin–Mpro complex on the trajectory of 100 ns simulation frame. These binding interactions, together with drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic findings, confirmed that artemisinin might inhibit Mpro activity and explain the ethnopharmacological use of the herb and its possible antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 infection inducing COVID-19. Nevertheless, it interacted differently with the various ACE2 allelic variants reported to bind with the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
Application of Semi-Mechanistic Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Model in Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Mi Kun , Zhou Kaixiang , Sun Lei , Hou Yixuan , Ma Wenjin , Xu Xiangyue , Huo Meixia , Liu Zhenli , Huang Lingli
Published: January 2022

Antimicrobial resistance is a major public health issue. The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model is an essential tool to optimize dosage regimens and alleviate the emergence of resistance. The semi-mechanistic PK/PD model is a mathematical quantitative tool to capture the relationship between dose, exposure, and response, in terms of the mechanism. Understanding the different resistant mechanisms of bacteria to various antibacterials and presenting this as mathematical equations, the semi-mechanistic PK/PD model can capture and simulate the progress of bacterial growth and the variation in susceptibility. In this review, we outline the bacterial growth model and antibacterial effect model, including different resistant mechanisms, such as persisting resistance, adaptive resistance, and pre-existing resistance, of antibacterials against bacteria. The application of the semi-mechanistic PK/PD model, such as the determination of PK/PD breakpoints, combination therapy, and dosage optimization, are also summarized. Additionally, it is important to integrate the PD effect, such as the inoculum effect and host response, in order to develop a comprehensive mechanism model. In conclusion, with the semi-mechanistic PK/PD model, the dosage regimen can be reasonably determined, which can suppress bacterial growth and resistance development.
Light-Decomposable Polymeric Micelles with Hypoxia-Enhanced Phototherapeutic Efficacy for Combating Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Tong Aiyang , Niu Peiyuan , Guo Wenjing , Jin Yangye , Hu Yi , Tao Pei , Miao Wenjun
Published: January 2022

Oxygen dependence and anabatic hypoxia are the major factors responsible for the poor outcome of photodynamic therapy (PDT) against cancer. Combining of PDT and hypoxia-activatable bioreductive therapy has achieved remarkably improved antitumor efficacy compared to single PDT modality. However, controllable release and activation of prodrug and safety profiles of nanocarrier are still challenging in the combined PDT/hypoxia-triggered bioreductive therapy. Herein, we developed a near infrared (NIR) light-decomposable nanomicelle, consisting of PEGylated cypate (pCy) and mPEG-polylactic acid (mPEG2k-PLA2k) for controllable delivery of hypoxia-activated bioreductive prodrug (tirapazamine, TPZ) (designated TPZ@pCy), for combating metastatic breast cancer via hypoxia-enhanced phototherapies. TPZ@pCy was prepared by facile nanoprecipitation method, with good colloidal stability, excellent photodynamic and photothermal potency, favorable light-decomposability and subsequent release and activation of TPZ under irradiation. In vitro experiments demonstrated that TPZ@pCy could be quickly internalized by breast cancer cells, leading to remarkable synergistic tumor cell-killing potential. Additionally, metastatic breast tumor-xenografted mice with systematic administration of TPZ@pCy showed notable tumor accumulation, promoting tumor ablation and lung metastasis inhibition with negligible toxicity upon NIR light illumination. Collectively, our study demonstrates that this versatile light-decomposable polymeric micelle with simultaneous delivery of photosensitizer and bioreductive agent could inhibit tumor growth as well as lung metastasis, representing a promising strategy for potent hypoxia-enhanced phototherapies for combating metastatic breast cancer.
Oligonucleotide Therapeutics: From Discovery and Development to Patentability
Authors: Moumné Lara , Marie Anne-Céline , Crouvezier Nicolas
Published: January 2022

Following the first proof of concept of using small nucleic acids to modulate gene expression, a long period of maturation led, at the end of the last century, to the first marketing authorization of an oligonucleotide-based therapy. Since then, 12 more compounds have hit the market and many more are in late clinical development. Many companies were founded to exploit their therapeutic potential and Big Pharma was quickly convinced that oligonucleotides could represent credible alternatives to protein-targeting products. Many technologies have been developed to improve oligonucleotide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Initially targeting rare diseases and niche markets, oligonucleotides are now able to benefit large patient populations. However, there is still room for oligonucleotide improvement and further breakthroughs are likely to emerge in the coming years. In this review we provide an overview of therapeutic oligonucleotides. We present in particular the different types of oligonucleotides and their modes of action, the tissues they target and the routes by which they are administered to patients, and the therapeutic areas in which they are used. In addition, we present the different ways of patenting oligonucleotides. We finally discuss future challenges and opportunities for this drug-discovery platform.
Biocompatible Core–Shell-Structured Si-Based NiO Nanoflowers and Their Anticancer Activity
Authors: Gwon Kihak , Park Jong-Deok , Lee Seonhwa , Yu Jong-Sung , Lee Do Nam
Published: January 2022

Compared to most of nano-sized particles, core–shell-structured nanoflowers have received great attention as bioactive materials because of their high surface area with the flower-like structures. In this study, core–shell-structured Si-based NiO nanoflowers, Si@NiO, were prepared by a modified chemical bath deposition method followed by thermal reduction. The crystal morphology and basic structure of the composites were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), specific surface area (BET) and porosity analysis (BJT), and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The electrochemical properties of the Si@NiO nanoflowers were examined through the redox reaction of ascorbic acid with the metal ions present on the surface of the core–shell nanoflowers. This reaction favored the formation of reactive oxygen species. The Si@NiO nanoflowers showed excellent anticancer activity and low cytotoxicity toward the human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) and mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), respectively, demonstrating that the anticancer activities of the Si@NiO nanoflowers were primarily derived from the oxidative capacity of the metal ions on the surface, rather than from the released metal ions. Thus, this proves that Si-based NiO nanoflowers can act as a promising candidate for therapeutic applications.
Acoustic Performance and Flame Retardancy of Ammonium Polyphosphate/Diethyl Ethylphosphonate Rigid Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Zhang Huiping , LYU Xiongxian , Huang Zijun , Yan Ying
Published: January 2022

Flame-retardant water-blown rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs) modified by ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and diethyl ethylphosphonate (DEEP) were synthesized by a one-pot free-rising method. We performed scanning electron microscopy (SEM), compression strength tests, acoustic absorption measurements and thermogravimetric analysis, as well as limited oxygen index, vertical burning and cone calorimeter tests to investigate the mechanical properties, acoustic performance and flame retardancy of the foams. SEM confirmed that the open-cell structures of the foams were successfully constructed with the introduction of a cell-opening agent. Upon using 20 php APP, the average acoustic absorption coefficient of the foam reached 0.535 in an acoustic frequency range of 1500–5000 Hz. The results of thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated that the incorporation of APP and DEEP can effectively restrain mass loss of RPUFs during pyrolysis. In particular, the compressive strength of a foam composite containing 5 php APP and 15 php DEEP increased to 188.77 kPa and the LOI value reached 24.9%. In a vertical burning test and a cone calorimeter test, the joint use of APP and DEEP endowed RPUFs with a V-0 rating and they attained a THR value of 23.43 MJ/m2. Moreover, the addition of APP improved the acoustic absorption performance of the foam, verified by acoustic absorption measurements. Considering potential applications, the formulation containing 15 php APP and 5 php DEEP could be used in the preparation of a new flame-retardant acoustic absorption rigid polyurethane foam.
Hybrid Bead Air Filters with Low Pressure Drops at a High Flow Rate for the Removal of Particulate Matter and HCHO
Authors: Kim Hee Ju , Kim Ye Jin , Seo Yu Jin , Choi Ji Hee , Koo Hye Young , Choi Won San
Published: January 2022

A tower air filtration system was designed in which bead air filters (BAFs) were actively rotated by a fan motor to remove particulate matter (PM) or HCHO gas. Three types of BAF, hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and hybrid, were prepared and compared for the removal of PM and HCHO gas. A tower air filtration system loaded with hybrid BAFs purified 3.73 L of PM (2500 μg/m3 PM2.5) at a high flow rate of 3.4 m/s with high removal efficiency (99.4% for PM2.5) and a low pressure drop (19 Pa) in 6 min. Against our expectations, the PM2.5 removal efficiency slightly increased as the air velocity increased. The hybrid BAF-200 showed excellent recyclability up to 50 cycles with high removal efficiencies (99.4–93.4% for PM2.5). Furthermore, hydrophilic BAF-200 could permanently remove 3.73 L of HCHO gas (4.87 ppm) and return the atmosphere to safe levels (0.41–0.31 ppm) within 60 min without any desorption of HCHO gas.
Application of Gelatin in Food Packaging: A Review
Authors: Lu Yanan , Luo Qijun , Chu Yuchan , Tao Ningping , Deng Shanggui , Wang Li , Li Li
Published: January 2022

Owing to the increasing environmental concerns and requirements for high-quality foods, edible films and coatings (based on proteins, polysaccharides, natural phenolic active substances, etc.) are being developed as effective alternatives to traditional plastic packaging. Gelatin is extracted from collagen. It is an ideal material for food packaging due to its versatile advantages such as low price, polymerization, biodegradability, good antibacterial and antioxidant properties, etc. However, gelatin film exists poor waterproof and mechanical properties, which limit its developments and applications in food packaging. Previous studies show that pure gelatin can be modified by adding active ingredients and incorporating them with bio-polymers to improve its mechanical properties, aiming to achieve the desirable effect of preservation. This review mainly shows the preparation and molding ways of gelatin-based edible films and the applications of gelatin modified with other biopolymers. Furthermore, this review provides the latest advances in gelatin-based biodegradable packaging and food applications that exhibit outstanding advantages in food preservation.
Noise Evaluation of S-Polymer Gears
Authors: Trobentar Boštjan , Hriberšek Matija , Kulovec Simon , Glodež Srečko , Belšak Aleš
Published: January 2022

In this study, an acoustic behaviour of S-polymer gears made of the material combination POM/PA66 was investigated and compared to the standardised involute gears (E-gears). Basic evaluating characteristics included noise during operation, which is of particular significance when noise reduction is expected. The measured signals were analysed in time and frequency domains and the levels of acoustic activity were compared. The experimental results have shown that the sound pressure level of both E- and S-polymer gears are proportional to the torque. However, the comprehensive noise evaluation has shown some advantages of S-polymer gears if compared to the E-polymer gears. In that respect, S-polymer gears were found more appropriate for noise reduction of gear drive systems in the case of normal loading and typical drive speed. Future studies in the operating behaviour of S-polymer gears could also cover noise evaluation using new methods of sound signal analysis at different temperatures of gears.
Medical-Grade Polyamide 12 Nanocomposite Materials for Enhanced Mechanical and Antibacterial Performance in 3D Printing Applications
Authors: Vidakis Nectarios , Petousis Markos , Velidakis Emmanuel , Korlos Apostolos , Kechagias John D. , Tsikritzis Dimitris , Mountakis Nikolaos
Published: January 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, wide use of 3D printing technologies has been enabled. Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is the most widely used technique in 3D printing communities worldwide for the fabrication of medical components such as face shields and respiratory valves. In the current study, the potential of Polyamide 12 (PA12) silver-doped antibacterial nanopowder (AgDANP) nanocomposites is evaluated for everyday FFF usage. Filling loadings of 1.0-2.0-3.0 and 4.0 wt.% were selected for nanocomposite preparation. Mechanical performance analysis was conducted on the basis of tensile, flexural, impact, and Vickers microhardness measurements in FFF 3D-printed specimens. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images were used for morphology and processing evaluation, as well as thermal performance measurements, conducted by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) tests. Finally, the antibacterial performance was tested using the agar-well diffusion screening method, and the shape effect of the specimens was also investigated. The addition of 2.0 wt.% AgDANPs resulted in an enhancement of approximately 27% for both tensile and flexural stresses, while the antibacterial performance was sufficiently high among the nanocomposites tested. The shape effect exhibited the potential for antibacterial performance at low filling ratios, while the effect was diminished with increasing filler of AgDANPs.
The Isothermal and Nonisothermal Crystallization Kinetics and Morphology of Solvent-Precipitated Nylon 66
Authors: Tseng Chiah-Hsiung , Tsai Ping-Szu
Published: January 2022

Solvent-precipitated nylon 66 (SP PA66) is a key material used to fabricate microfiltration membranes. The crystallization kinetics and behavior of SP PA66 were investigated through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarized optical microscopy (POM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The Avrami equation was used to describe the isothermal crystallization of SP PA66. Nonisothermal crystallization behaviors were analyzed using Avrami equations modified by Jeziorny, Ozawa and Mo. The Avrami analysis demonstrated that the k values of SP PA66 were higher than those of neat PA66. The n was between 2 and 3 indicating the presence of two- and three-dimensional mode with thermal nucleation. With an increasing cooling rate, the Jeziorny crystallization rate constant increased for SP PA66; however, the Ozawa model was not satisfactory for all SP PA66 samples. The Mo method suggested that SP PA66 had a faster crystallization rate than neat PA66 during the nonisothermal crystallization process. The solvents dissolved nylon 66, rearranged it and formed a regular hydrogen-bonded region. These regions served as nucleation sites and increased the crystallization rate constant in the subsequent melting process. The crystal morphology of the SP PA66 under the POM investigation exhibited Maltese cross spherulites. The sizes of the spherulites of SP PA66 were significantly smaller than those of neat PA66. Wide-angle XRD revealed that SP PA66 had the same crystal structure and a higher crystal perfection than neat PA66.
High-k Three-Phase Epoxy/K1.6(Ni0.8Ti7.2)O16/CNT Composites with Synergetic Effect
Authors: Vikulova Maria , Nikityuk Tatyana , Artyukhov Denis , Tsyganov Alexey , Bainyashev Alexey , Burmistrov Igor , Gorshkov Nikolay
Published: January 2022

Polymer matrix composites based on ED-20 epoxy resin, hollandite K1.6(Ni0.8Ti7.2)O16 and carbon nanotubes with a variable content of 0.107; 0.213 and 0.425 vol.% were obtained for the first time. Initial components and composites produced were characterized by XRD, XRA, FTIR, SEM and Raman spectroscopy. The dielectric properties of composite materials were measured by impedance spectroscopy and determined by the volume ratio of the composite components, primarily by the concentration of CNTs. At a CNT content of 0.213 vol.% (before percolation threshold), the maximum synergistic effect of carbon and ceramic fillers on the dielectric properties of a composite based on the epoxy resin was found. Three-phase composites based on epoxy resin, with a maximum permittivity at a minimum dielectric loss tangent, are promising materials for elements of an electronic component base.
Metal Complexes of the Porphyrin-Functionalized Polybenzoxazine
Authors: Zhang Guohu , EL-Mahdy Ahmed F. M. , Ahmed Lamiaa Reda , Matsagar Babasaheb M. , Al-Saeedi Sameerah , Kuo Shiao-Wei , Wu Kevin C.-W.
Published: January 2022

New porphyrin-functionalized benzoxazine (Por-BZ) in high purity and yield was synthesized in this study based on 1H and 13C NMR and FTIR spectroscopic analyses through the reduction of Schiff base formed from tetrakis(4-aminophenyl)porphyrin (TAPP) and salicylaldehyde and the subsequent reaction with CH2O. Thermal properties of the product formed through ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of Por-BZ were measured using DSC, TGA and FTIR spectroscopy. Because of the rigid structure of the porphyrin moiety appended to the benzoxazine unit, the temperature required for ROP (314 °C) was higher than the typical Pa-type benzoxazine monomer (ca. 260 °C); furthermore, poly(Por-BZ) possessed a high thermal decomposition temperature (Td10 = 478 °C) and char yield (66 wt%) after thermal polymerization at 240 °C. An investigation of the thermal and luminescence properties of metal–porphyrin complexes revealed that the insertion of Ni and Zn ions decreased the thermal ROP temperatures of the Por-BZ/Ni and Por-BZ/Zn complexes significantly, to 241 and 231 °C, respectively. The metal ions acted as the effective promoter and catalyst for the thermal polymerization of the Por-BZ monomer, and also improved the thermal stabilities after thermal polymerization.
Metronidazole Topically Immobilized Electrospun Nanofibrous Scaffold: Novel Secondary Intention Wound Healing Accelerator
Authors: El-Shanshory Ahmed A. , Agwa Mona M. , Abd-Elhamid Ahmed I. , Soliman Hesham M. A. , Mo Xiumei , Kenawy El-Refaie
Published: January 2022

The process of secondary intention wound healing includes long repair and healing time. Electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds have shown potential for wound dressing. Biopolymers have gained much attention due to their remarkable characteristics such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, non-immunogenicity and nontoxicity. This study anticipated to develop a new composite metronidazole (MTZ) immobilized nanofibrous scaffold based on poly (3-hydroxy butyrate) (PHB) and Gelatin (Gel) to be utilized as a novel secondary intention wound healing accelerator. Herein, PHB and Gel were mixed together at different weight ratios to prepare polymer solutions with final concentration of (7%), loaded with two different concentrations 5% (Z1) and 10% (Z2) of MTZ. Nanofibrous scaffolds were obtained by manipulating electrospinning technique. The properties of MTZ immobilized PHB/Gel nanofibrous scaffold were evaluated (SEM, FTIR, TGA, water uptake, contact angle, porosity, mechanical properties and antibacterial activity). Additionally, in vitro cytocompatibility of the obtained nanofibrous scaffolds were assessed by using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8 assay). Moreover, in vivo wound healing experiments revealed that the prepared nanofibrous scaffold highly augmented the transforming growth factor (TGF-β) signaling pathway, moderately suppressed the pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-6). These results indicate that MTZ immobilized PHB/Gel nanofibrous scaffold significantly boost accelerating secondary intention wound healing.
Copper Oxide-Antimony Oxide Entrapped Alginate Hydrogel as Efficient Catalyst for Selective Reduction of 2-Nitrophenol
Authors: Khan Sher Bahadar , Bakhsh Esraa M. , Akhtar Kalsoom , Kamal Tahseen , Shen Yan , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: January 2022

Copper oxide-antimony oxide (Cu2O-Sb2O3) was prepared and entrapped inside Na-alginate hydrogel (Alg@Cu2O-Sb2O3). The developed Alg@Cu2O-Sb2O3 was used as catalytic reactor for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), 2-nitrophenol (2-NP), 2,6-dinitrophenol (2,6-DNP), methyl orange (MO), congo red (CR), acridine orange (AO), methylene blue (MB) and potassium ferricyanide (K3[Fe(CN)6]). Alg@Cu2O-Sb2O3 was found to be selective and more efficient for the reduction of 2-NP among all the pollutants. Therefore, 2-NP was selected for a detailed study to optimize various parameters, e.g., the catalyst amount, reducing agent concentration, 2-NP concentration and recyclability. Alg@Cu2O-Sb2O3 was found to be very stable and easily recyclable for the reduction of 2-NP. The Alg@Cu2O-Sb2O3 nanocatalyst reduced 2-NP in 1.0 min, having a rate constant of 3.8187 min−1.
Effects of Charge Carrier Trapping on Image Resolution of Multilayer Photoconductive Detectors: Application to Amorphous Selenium X-ray Detectors
Authors: Kabir M. Zahangir
Published: January 2022

The effects of charge carrier trapping on image resolution in multilayer photoconductive imaging detectors was analyzed by developing an analytical model for calculating the modulation transfer function (MTF) of the imaging detectors. The MTF model was developed by considering the charge carrier trapping/recombination in the blocking layer and the distributed trapping in the bulk photoconductor layer of multilayer photoconductive imaging detectors. The relative importance of the bulk and blocking layer trapping, as well as the K-fluorescence reabsorption on the resolution, was also analyzed. The model was applied to amorphous selenium- (a-Se) based multilayer detectors for both chest radiographic and mammographic applications. The theoretical model agreed well with experimental results. The charge carrier trapping/recombination in the blocking layer and K-fluorescence reabsorption mainly controlled the resolution of the a-Se mammographic detectors. In addition to these two effects, the bulk trapping also had a significant effect on the resolution of chest radiographic detectors. The blocking layer thickness had more of a profound effect on the resolution than the amount of trap centers in the blocking layer. The resolution deteriorated drastically with increased blocking layer thickness.
Conceptualizing Buddhisization: Malaysian Chinese Buddhists in Contemporary Malaysia
Authors: Tan Lee Ooi
Published: January 2022

This article conceptualizes the term “Buddhisization” to understand religious manifestations of Buddhist communities in contemporary Malaysia. By Buddhisization, I refer to a process of influencing or being influenced to be a Buddhist. The purpose of this conceptualization, apart from basic description and definition, is to outline some contexts for the use of Buddhisization and rationale behind the process. Drawing on in-depth interviews with Malaysian Chinese Buddhists, this study proposes six aspects of Buddhisization from the common experiences of Malaysian Chinese Buddhists. These aspects are the formalization of the taking refuge ceremony, participation in Buddhist associations, Buddhist examination, popularization of meditation courses, Buddhist weddings and Buddhist funerals. From experiences in Malaysia, this article suggests that the Buddhist minority context has enabled the process of being Buddhist at individual and institutional levels through initiatives and efforts of the Buddhist community. Urban educated middle-class Chinese Buddhists are inclined towards an acceptance of Buddhisization. As a consequence, it has complicated the journey of nation building in multi-religiosity Malaysia.
Leopold Cohn and the Evolution of Messianic Judaism into the Leading Missionary Movement among American Jews
Authors: Keren-Kratz Menachem
Published: January 2022

Since the early days of Christianity, it was generally accepted that a person could be either a Jew or a Christian, but not both. This, however, changed in the late nineteenth century. Yitzhak Leib Josowitz was a young Jew who studied at Hungary’s top yeshivas and ordained as a rabbi. Shortly after settling in New York in 1892, he converted, ordained a priest, changed his name to Leopold Cohn, and became a missionary. Cohn promoted a relatively new missionary approach which encouraged Jews to retain their identity and traditions, but also to adopt Jesus as their messiah. This, he claimed, would not only make them better Jews, but would also win them a higher spiritual status than people who were born Christians. Cohn also convinced many Christians to donate to his mission, which he called The Chosen People. After his death in 1937 Leopold was succeeded by his son Joseph, who greatly expanded the mission’s outreach. In time the missionary approach Cohn developed was adopted by other missions and became known as Messianic Judaism. Today, the dozens of messianic missions have millions of members and one of the most active ones is Cohn’s Chosen People which continue its operation more than 125 years after its establishment.
Small Sample Hyperspectral Image Classification Based on Cascade Fusion of Mixed Spatial-Spectral Features and Second-Order Pooling
Authors: Feng Fan , Zhang Yongsheng , Zhang Jin , Liu Bing
Published: January 2022

Hyperspectral images can capture subtle differences in reflectance of features in hundreds of narrow bands, and its pixel-wise classification is the cornerstone of many applications requiring fine-grained classification results. Although three-dimensional convolutional neural networks (3D-CNN) have been extensively investigated in hyperspectral image classification tasks and have made significant breakthroughs, hyperspectral classification under small sample conditions is still challenging. In order to facilitate small sample hyperspectral classification, a novel mixed spatial-spectral features cascade fusion network (MSSFN) is proposed. First, the covariance structure of hyperspectral data is modeled and dimensionality reduction is conducted using factor analysis. Then, two 3D spatial-spectral residual modules and one 2D separable spatial residual module are used to extract mixed spatial-spectral features. A cascade fusion pattern consisting of intra-block feature fusion and inter-block feature fusion is constructed to enhance the feature extraction capability. Finally, the second-order statistical information of the fused features is mined using second-order pooling and the classification is achieved by the fully connected layer after L2 normalization. On the three public available hyperspectral datasets, Indian Pines, Houston, and University of Pavia, only 5%, 3%, and 1% of the labeled samples were used for training, the accuracy of MSSFN in this paper is 98.52%, 96.31% and 98.83%, respectively, which is far better than the contrast models and verifies the effectiveness of MSSFN in small sample hyperspectral classification tasks.
Unlocking the Potential of Deep Learning for Migratory Waterbirds Monitoring Using Surveillance Video
Authors: Wu Entao , Wang Hongchang , Lu Huaxiang , Zhu Wenqi , Jia Yifei , Wen Li , Choi Chi-Yeung , Guo Huimin , Li Bin , Sun Lili , Lei Guangchun , Lei Jialin , Jian Haifang
Published: January 2022

Estimates of migratory waterbirds population provide the essential scientific basis to guide the conservation of coastal wetlands, which are heavily modified and threatened by economic development. New equipment and technology have been increasingly introduced in protected areas to expand the monitoring efforts, among which video surveillance and other unmanned devices are widely used in coastal wetlands. However, the massive amount of video records brings the dual challenge of storage and analysis. Manual analysis methods are time-consuming and error-prone, representing a significant bottleneck to rapid data processing and dissemination and application of results. Recently, video processing with deep learning has emerged as a solution, but its ability to accurately identify and count waterbirds across habitat types (e.g., mudflat, saltmarsh, and open water) is untested in coastal environments. In this study, we developed a two-step automatic waterbird monitoring framework. The first step involves automatic video segmentation, selection, processing, and mosaicking video footages into panorama images covering the entire monitoring area, which are subjected to the second step of counting and density estimation using a depth density estimation network (DDE). We tested the effectiveness and performance of the framework in Tiaozini, Jiangsu Province, China, which is a restored wetland, providing key high-tide roosting ground for migratory waterbirds in the East Asian–Australasian flyway. The results showed that our approach achieved an accuracy of 85.59%, outperforming many other popular deep learning algorithms. Furthermore, the standard error of our model was very small (se = 0.0004), suggesting the high stability of the method. The framework is computing effective—it takes about one minute to process a theme covering the entire site using a high-performance desktop computer. These results demonstrate that our framework can extract ecologically meaningful data and information from video surveillance footages accurately to assist biodiversity monitoring, fulfilling the gap in the efficient use of existing monitoring equipment deployed in protected areas.