bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oleuropein Degradation Kinetics in Olive Leaf and Its Aqueous Extracts
Authors: Martínez-Navarro María Esther , Cebrián-Tarancón Cristina , Oliva José , Salinas María Rosario , Alonso Gonzalo L.
Published: December 2021

Although olives leaves are currently considered a waste material from oil mills, they have great potential to be transformed into by-products due to their high oleuropein content. Oleuropein is a glycoside precursor of hydroxytyrosol, which is the phenolic compound with the highest antioxidant capacity in nature and which is associated with multiple health benefits. For this reason, the demand for oleuropein is growing in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food sectors. The objective of this study is to determine the stability of oleuropein in olive leaves from oil mills in solid and aqueous forms under different conditions of temperature, relative humidity and lighting. The results indicate that the degradation of oleuropein conforms well to first-order kinetics. The rate constants at the temperatures tested in the aqueous extracts indicate activation energies from RTl to 80 °C and from 7 °C to 14 °C, as the degradation reactions were different in these ranges. Furthermore, olive leaf powder stored at any temperature with an RH ≥ 57% showed greater stability after six months, which is an encouraging result for the storage and transformation of this waste in oil mills.
Riboceine Rescues Auranofin-Induced Craniofacial Defects in Zebrafish
Authors: Leask Megan , Carleton Catherine , Leeke Bryony , Newman Trent , Antoun Joseph , Farella Mauro , Horsfield Julia
Published: December 2021

Craniofacial abnormalities are a common group of congenital developmental disorders that can require intensive oral surgery as part of their treatment. Neural crest cells (NCCs) contribute to the facial structures; however, they are extremely sensitive to high levels of oxidative stress, which result in craniofacial abnormalities under perturbed developmental environments. The oxidative stress-inducing compound auranofin (AFN) disrupts craniofacial development in wildtype zebrafish embryos. Here, we tested whether the antioxidant Riboceine (RBC) rescues craniofacial defects arising from exposure to AFN. RBC rescued AFN-induced cellular apoptosis and distinct defects of the cranial cartilage in zebrafish larvae. Zebrafish embryos exposed to AFN have higher expression of antioxidant genes gstp1 and prxd1, with RBC treatment partially rescuing these gene expression profiles. Our data suggest that antioxidants may have utility in preventing defects in the craniofacial cartilage owing to environmental or genetic risk, perhaps by enhancing cell survival.
Ginsenoside Rg3 Attenuates TNF-α-Induced Damage in Chondrocytes through Regulating SIRT1-Mediated Anti-Apoptotic and Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms
Authors: Ma Ching-Hou , Chou Wan-Ching , Wu Chin-Hsien , Jou I-Ming , Tu Yuan-Kun , Hsieh Pei-Ling , Tsai Kun-Ling
Published: December 2021

The upregulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is a common event in arthritis, and the subsequent signaling cascade that leads to tissue damage has become the research focus. To explore a potential therapeutic strategy to prevent cartilage degradation, we tested the effect of ginsenoside Rg3, a bioactive component of Panax ginseng, on TNF-α-stimulated chondrocytes.TC28a2 Human Chondrocytes were treated with TNF-α to induce damage of chondrocytes. SIRT1 and PGC-1a expression levels were investigated by Western blotting assay. Mitochondrial SIRT3 and acetylated Cyclophilin D (CypD) were investigated using mitochondrial isolation. The mitochondrial mass number and mitochondrial DNA copy were studied for mitochondrial biogenesis. MitoSOX and JC-1 were used for the investigation of mitochondrial ROS and membrane potential. Apoptotic markers, pro-inflammatory events were also tested to prove the protective effects of Rg3. We showed Rg3 reversed the TNF-α-inhibited SIRT1 expression. Moreover, the activation of the SIRT1/PGC-1α/SIRT3 pathway by Rg3 suppressed the TNF-α-induced acetylation of CypD, resulting in less mitochondrial dysfunction and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Additionally, we demonstrated that the reduction of ROS ameliorated the TNF-α-elicited apoptosis. Furthermore, the Rg3-reverted SIRT1/PGC-1α/SIRT3 activation mediated the repression of p38 MAPK, which downregulated the NF-κB translocation in the TNF-α-treated cells. Our results revealed that administration of Rg3 diminished the production of interleukin 8 (IL-8) and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9) in chondrocytes via SIRT1/PGC-1α/SIRT3/p38 MAPK/NF-κB signaling in response to TNF-α stimulation. Taken together, we showed that Rg3 may serve as an adjunct therapy for patients with arthritis.
Second Generation of Tissue-Engineered Ligament Substitutes for Torn ACL Replacement: Adaptations for Clinical Applications
Authors: Simon Franck , Moreira-Pereira Jadson , Lamontagne Jean , Cloutier Rejean , Goulet Francine , Chabaud Stéphane
Published: December 2021

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee joint is one of the strongest ligaments of the body and is often the target of traumatic injuries. Unfortunately, its healing potential is limited, and the surgical options for its replacement are frequently associated with clinical issues. A bioengineered ACL (bACL) was developed using a collagen matrix, seeded with autologous cells and successfully grafted and integrated into goat knee joints. We hypothesize that, in order to reduce the cost and simplify the model, an acellular bACL can be used as a substitute for a torn ACL, and bone plugs can be replaced by endobuttons to fix the bACL in situ. First, acellular bACLs were successfully grafted in the goat model with 18% recovery of ultimate tensile strength 6 months after implantation (94 N/mm2 vs. 520). Second, a bACL with endobuttons was produced and tested in an exvivo bovine knee model. The natural collagen scaffold of the bACL contributes to supporting host cell migration, growth and differentiation in situ post-implantation. Bone plugs were replaced by endobuttons to design a second generation of bACLs that offer more versatility as biocompatible grafts for torn ACL replacement in humans. A robust collagen bACL will allow solving therapeutic issues currently encountered by orthopedic surgeons such as donor-site morbidity, graft failure and post-traumatic osteoarthritis.
Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease in Children—From Atomistic to Holistic
Authors: Mărginean Cristina Oana , Meliț Lorena Elena , Săsăran Maria Oana
Published: December 2021

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease has become the most common chronic liver disease in children due to the alarmingly increasing incidence of pediatric obesity. It is well-documented that MAFLD prevalence is directly related to an incremental increase in BMI. The multiple hits theory was designed for providing insights regarding the pathogenesis of steatohepatitis and fibrosis in MAFLD. Recent evidence suggested that the microbiome is a crucial contributor in the pathogenesis of MAFLD. Aside from obesity, the most common risk factors for pediatric MAFLD include male gender, low-birth weight, family history of obesity, MAFLD, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obstructive sleep apnea, and polycystic ovarium syndrome. Usually, pediatric patients with MAFLD have nonspecific symptoms consisting of fatigue, malaise, or diffuse abdominal pain. A wide spectrum of biomarkers was proposed for the diagnosis of MAFLD and NASH, as well as for quantifying the degree of fibrosis, but liver biopsy remains the key diagnostic and staging tool. Nevertheless, elastography-based methods present promising results in this age group as potential non-invasive replacers for liver biopsy. Despite the lack of current guidelines regarding MAFLD treatment in children, lifestyle intervention was proven to be crucial in the management of these patients.
Catalase Activity in Keratinocytes, Stratum Corneum, and Defatted Algae Biomass as a Potential Skin Care Ingredient
Authors: Szczepanczyk Michal , Ruzgas Tautgirdas , Gullfot Fredrika , Gustafsson Anna , Björklund Sebastian
Published: December 2021

The generation of reactive oxygen species presents a destructive challenge for the skin organ and there is a clear need to advance skin care formulations aiming at alleviating oxidative stress. The aim of this work was to characterize the activity of the antioxidative enzyme catalase in keratinocytes and in the skin barrier (i.e., the stratum corneum). Further, the goal was to compare the activity levels with the corresponding catalase activity found in defatted algae biomass, which may serve as a source of antioxidative enzymes, as well as other beneficial algae-derived molecules, to be employed in skin care products. For this, an oxygen electrode-based method was employed to determine the catalase activity and the apparent kinetic parameters for purified catalase, as well as catalase naturally present in HaCaT keratinocytes, excised stratum corneum samples collected from pig ears with various amounts of melanin, and defatted algae biomass from the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. Taken together, this work illustrates the versatility of the oxygen electrode-based method for characterizing catalase function in samples with a high degree of complexity and enables the assessment of sample treatment protocols and comparisons between different biological systems related to the skin organ or algae-derived materials as a potential source of skin care ingredients for combating oxidative stress.
The Role of Oxidative Stress and Therapeutic Potential of Antioxidants in Graves’ Ophthalmopathy
Authors: Hou Tzu-Yu , Wu Shi-Bei , Kau Hui-Chuan , Tsai Chieh-Chih
Published: December 2021

Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) is the most common extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves’ disease. It is characterized initially by an inflammatory process, followed by tissue remodeling and fibrosis, leading to proptosis, exposure keratopathy, ocular motility limitation, and compressive optic neuropathy. The pathogenic mechanism is complex and multifactorial. Accumulating evidence suggests the involvement of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of GO. Cigarette smoking, a major risk factor for GO, has been shown to induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and oxidative damage in GO orbital fibroblasts. In addition, an elevation in ROS and antioxidant enzymes is observed in tears, blood, and urine, as well as orbital fibroadipose tissues and fibroblasts from GO patients. In vitro and in vivo studies have examined the efficacy of various antioxidant supplements for GO. These findings suggest a therapeutic role of antioxidants in GO patients. This review summarizes the current understanding of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis and potential antioxidants for the treatment of GO.
Displacement of Gray Matter and Incidence of Seizures in Patients with Cerebral Cavernous Malformations
Authors: Chou Chi-Jen , Lee Cheng-Chia , Chen Ching-Jen , Yang Huai-Che , Peng Syu-Jyun
Published: December 2021

Seizures are the most common presentation in patients with cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs). Based on the hypothesis that the volume or proportion of gray matter (GM) displaced by CCMs is associated with the risk of seizure, we developed an algorithm by which to quantify the volume and proportion of displaced GM and the risk of seizure. Image analysis was conducted on 111 patients with solitary CCMs (divided into seizure and nonseizure groups) from our gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS) database from February 2005 and March 2020. The CCM algorithm proved effective in quantifying the GM and CCM using T1WI MRI images. In the seizure group, 11 of the 12 patients exhibited seizures at the initial presentation, and all CCMs in the seizure group were supratentorial. The location of the limbic lobe within the CCM was significantly associated with the risk of seizure (OR = 19.6, p = 0.02). The risk of seizure increased when the proportion of GM displaced by the CCM exceeded 31%. It was also strongly correlated with the volume of displaced GM. The volume and proportion of displaced GM were both positively correlated with the risk of seizure presentation/development and thus could be used to guide seizure prophylaxis in CCM patients.
An Orthotopic Model of Uveal Melanoma in Zebrafish Embryo: A Novel Platform for Drug Evaluation
Authors: Tobia Chiara , Coltrini Daniela , Ronca Roberto , Loda Alessandra , Guerra Jessica , Scalvini Elisa , Semeraro Francesco , Rezzola Sara
Published: December 2021

Uveal melanoma is a highly metastatic tumor, representing the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults. Tumor cell xenografts in zebrafish embryos may provide the opportunity to study in vivo different aspects of the neoplastic disease and its response to therapy. Here, we established an orthotopic model of uveal melanoma in zebrafish by injecting highly metastatic murine B16-BL6 and B16-LS9 melanoma cells, human A375M melanoma cells, and human 92.1 uveal melanoma cells into the eye of zebrafish embryos in the proximity of the developing choroidal vasculature. Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analyses showed that melanoma cells proliferate during the first four days after injection and move towards the eye surface. Moreover, bioluminescence analysis of luciferase-expressing human 92.1 uveal melanoma cells allowed the quantitative assessment of the antitumor activity exerted by the canonical chemotherapeutic drugs paclitaxel, panobinostat, and everolimus after their injection into the grafted eye. Altogether, our data demonstrate that the zebrafish embryo eye is a permissive environment for the growth of invasive cutaneous and uveal melanoma cells. In addition, we have established a new luciferase-based in vivo orthotopic model that allows the quantification of human uveal melanoma cells engrafted in the zebrafish embryo eye, and which may represent a suitable tool for the screening of novel drug candidates for uveal melanoma therapy.
Fluorescent AgNCs Formed on Bifunctional DNA Template for Potassium Ion Detection
Authors: Filipczuk Patrycja , Świtalska Angelika , Kosman Joanna , Nowaczyk Grzegorz , Dembska Anna
Published: December 2021

In this study, we examined properties of silver nanoclusters, which are AgNCs stabilized by DNA oligonucleotide scaffold containing G-quadruplex-forming sequences: human telomeric (Tel22) or thrombin-binding aptamer (TBA). Thus, we obtained two fluorescent probes abbreviated as Tel22C12-AgNCs and TBAC12-AgNCs, which were characterized using absorption, circular dichroism and fluorescence spectroscopy. Both probes emit green and red fluorescence. The presence of silver nanoclusters did not destabilize the formed G-quadruplexes. The structural changes of probes upon binding K+ or Na+ ions cause quenching in their red emission. Green emission was slightly quenched only in the case of Tel22C12-AgNCs; on the contrary, for TBAC12-AgNC’s green emission, we observed an increasing fluorescence signal. Moreover, the Tel22C12-AgNCs system shows not only a higher binding preference for K+ over Na+, but it was able to monitor small changes in K+ concentrations in the buffer mimicking extracellular conditions (high content of Na+ ions). These results suggest that Tel22C12-AgNCs exhibit the potential to monitor transmembrane potassium transport.
Overview of Quartz Crystal Microbalance Behavior Analysis and Measurement
Authors: Na Songkhla Sawit , Nakamoto Takamichi
Published: December 2021

Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) is one of the many acoustic transducers. It is the most popular and widely used acoustic transducer for sensor applications. It has found wide applications in chemical and biosensing fields owing to its high sensitivity, robustness, small sized-design, and ease of integration with electronic measurement systems. However, it is necessary to coat QCM with a sensing film. Without coating materials, its selectivity and sensitivity are not obtained. At present, this is not an issue, mainly due to the advancement of oscillator circuits and dedicated measurement circuits. Since a new researcher may seek to understand QCM sensors, we provide an overview of QCM from its fundamental knowledge. Then, we explain some of the recent QCM applications both in gas-phase and liquid-phase. Next, the theory of QCM is introduced by using piezoelectric stress equations and the Mason equivalent circuit, which explains how the QCM behavior is obtained. Then, the conventional equations that govern QCM behaviors in terms of resonant frequency and resistance are described. We show the behavior of QCM with a viscous film based on the acoustic wave equation and Mason equivalent circuit. Then, we present various existing QCM electronic measurement methods. Furthermore, we describe the experiment on QCM with viscous loading and its interpretation based on the Mason equivalent circuit. Lastly, we review some theoretical models to describe QCM behavior with various models.
Development of an Enhanced Recovery Program in Pediatric, Adolescent, and Young Adult Surgical Oncology Patients
Authors: Wells Stephanie J. , Austin Mary , Gottumukkala Vijaya , Kruse Brittany , Mayon Lauren , Kapoor Ravish , Lewis Valerae , Kelly Donna , Penny Alexander , Braveman Brent , Shkedy Eliana , Crowder Rebekah , Moody Karen , Swartz Maria C.
Published: December 2021

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols are standardized perioperative treatment plans aimed at improving recovery time in patients following surgery using a multidisciplinary team approach. These protocols have been shown to optimize pain control, improve mobility, and decrease postoperative ileus and other surgical complications, thereby leading to a reduction in length of stay and readmission rates. To date, no ERAS-based protocols have been developed specifically for pediatric patients undergoing oncologic surgery. Our objective is to describe the development of a novel protocol for pediatric, adolescent, and young adult surgical oncology patients. Our protocol includes the following components: preoperative counseling, optimization of nutrition status, minimization of opioids, meticulous titration of fluids, and early mobilization. We describe the planning and implementation challenges and the successes of our protocol. The effectiveness of our program in improving perioperative outcomes in this surgical population could lead to the adaptation of such protocols for similar populations at other centers and would lend support to the use of ERAS in the pediatric population overall.
Barrier Impairment and Type 2 Inflammation in Allergic Diseases: The Pediatric Perspective
Authors: Ghezzi Michele , Pozzi Elena , Abbattista Luisa , Lonoce Luisa , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , D’Auria Enza
Published: December 2021

Allergic diseases represent a global burden. Although the patho-physiological mechanisms are still poorly understood, epithelial barrier dysfunction and Th2 inflammatory response play a pivotal role. Barrier dysfunction, characterized by a loss of differentiation, reduced junctional integrity, and altered innate defence, underpins the pathogenesis of allergic diseases. Epithelial barrier impairment may be a potential therapeutic target for new treatment strategies Up now, monoclonal antibodies and new molecules targeting specific pathways of the immune response have been developed, and others are under investigation, both for adult and paediatric populations, which are affected by atopic dermatitis (AD), asthma, allergic rhinitis (AR), chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), or eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). In children affected by severe asthma biologics targeting IgE, IL-5 and against IL-4 and IL-13 receptors are already available, and they have also been applied in CRSwNP. In severe AD Dupilumab, a biologic which inhibits both IL-4 and IL-13, the most important cytokines involved in inflammation response, has been approved for treatment of patients over 12 years. While a biological approach has already shown great efficacy on the treatment of severe atopic conditions, early intervention to restore epithelial barrier integrity, and function may prevent the inflammatory response and the development of the atopic march.
Principal Components Analysis of EEG Signals for Epileptic Patient Identification
Authors: Guerrero Maria Camila , Parada Juan Sebastián , Espitia Helbert Eduardo
Published: December 2021

According to the behavior of its neuronal connections, it is possible to determine if the brain suffers from abnormalities such as epilepsy. This disease produces seizures and alters the patient’s behavior and lifestyle. Neurologists employ the electroencephalogram (EEG) to diagnose the disease through brain signals. Neurologists visually analyze these signals, recognizing patterns, to identify some indication of brain disorder that allows for the epilepsy diagnosis. This article proposes a study, based on the Fourier analysis, through fast Fourier transformation and principal component analysis, to quantitatively identify patterns to diagnose and differentiate between healthy patients and those with the disease. Subsequently, principal component analysis can be used to classify patients, employing frequency bands as the signal features. Besides, it is made a classification comparison before and after using principal component analysis. The classification is performed via logistic regression, with a reduction from 5 to 4 dimensions, as well as from 8 to 7, achieving an improvement when there are 7 dimensions in the precision, recall, and F1 score metrics. The best results obtained, without PCA are: precision 0.560, recall 0.690, and F1 score 0.620; meanwhile, the best values obtained using PCA are: precision 0.734, recall 0.787, and F1 score 0.776.
On the Plausibility of the Latent Ignorability Assumption
Authors: Huber Martin
Published: December 2021

The estimation of the causal effect of an endogenous treatment based on an instrumental variable (IV) is often complicated by the non-observability of the outcome of interest due to attrition, sample selection, or survey non-response. To tackle the latter problem, the latent ignorability (LI) assumption imposes that attrition/sample selection is independent of the outcome conditional on the treatment compliance type (i.e., how the treatment behaves as a function of the instrument), the instrument, and possibly further observed covariates. As a word of caution, this note formally discusses the strong behavioral implications of LI in rather standard IV models. We also provide an empirical illustration based on the Job Corps experimental study, in which the sensitivity of the estimated program effect to LI and alternative assumptions about outcome attrition is investigated.
Molecular Characterization and Nutrition Regulation of the Neutral Amino Acid Transporter ASCT2 in Triploid Crucian Carp
Authors: Mao Zhuangwen , Luo Shengwei , Zhao Dafang , Zhou Xiang , Zhang Zilong , Xiao Yangbo , Cao Shenping , Zhou Yonghua , Liu Shaojun , Tang Jianzhou , Liu Zhen
Published: December 2021

AlaSerCys Transporter 2 (ASCT2), encoded by the SLC1A5 gene, plays an important role in the absorption of glutamine. In this study, the full-length cDNA sequence of ASCT2 was cloned from triploid crucian carp. It encodes 539 amino acid residues and a stop codon. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the sequences of the ASCT2 ORF region in cyprinid fishes shared high sequence homology. Comparing the abundance of ASCT2 in different tissues, we found its expression level in muscle was significantly higher than that in intestine (p < 0.05). In addition, the expression levels of ASCT2 also appeared different in diurnal variation. Then we found the addition of 2.5% glutamate in a feeding diet significantly increased the expression levels of ASCT2 in intestine and muscle (p < 0.05). However, in glutamine experiments, the muscle showed the highest expression level of ASCT2 when fish were fed the diet containing 3.0% glutamine (p < 0.05). In vitro, ASCT2 was sensitive to glutamine and its expression level appeared down-regulated when the addition of glutamine was added to 0.1 mg/mL. Finally, we found that the diet with 29% protein level significantly increased the expression level of ASCT2 in intestine (p < 0.05). Nevertheless, different protein sources (fish meal and soybean meal) had no significant effect on the expression levels of ASCT2 in intestine and muscle (p > 0.05). These results provided data for the study of ASCT2 in triploid crucian carp regulated by feeding nutrition, which had a potential application in improving feed formulation in aquaculture.
Genetic Variability, Population Structure, and Relatedness Analysis of Meagre Stocks as an Informative Basis for New Breeding Schemes
Authors: Nousias Orestis , Tzokas Konstantinos , Papaharisis Leonidas , Ekonomaki Katerina , Chatziplis Dimitrios , Batargias Costas , Tsigenopoulos Costas S.
Published: December 2021

This study evaluates the genetic diversity of different meagre broodstocks sampled in Greece. A multiplex of twelve microsatellite markers was used to genotype 946 fish from eleven stocks and batches used for broodstock selection, and the genetic data was used to calculate genetic population parameters as well as to investigate the genetic differentiation between stocks. The results from a relatedness analysis were used as the guiding lines for a fine-tuned and overall evaluation of the genetic distance between stocks, and the choice of candidate breeders from some of them. The approach implemented in this study uses well-established population genetics methods to evaluate the selection of breeder candidates in aquaculture commercial conditions utilizing a descriptive genetic data set based on microsatellite analyses, and to outline an efficient methodology for establishing the basis of new breeding schemes.
Visualization and Sound Measurements of Vibration Plate in a Boiling Bubble Resonator
Authors: Ono Junichiro , Unno Noriyuki , Yuki Kazuhisa , Taniguchi Jun , Satake Shin-ichi
Published: December 2021

We developed a boiling bubble resonator (BBR) as a new heat transfer enhancement method aided by boiling bubbles. The BBR is a passive device that operates under its own bubble pressure and therefore does not require an electrical source. In the present study, high-speed visualization of the flow motion of the microbubbles spouted from a vibration plate and the plate motion in the BBR was carried out using high-speed LED lighting and high-speed cameras; the sounds in the boiling chamber were simultaneously captured using a hydrophone. The peak point in the spectrum of the motion of the vibration plate and the peak point in the spectrum of the boiling sound were found to be matched near a critical heat-flux state. Therefore, we found that it is important to match the BBR vibration frequency to the condensation cycle of the boiling bubble as its own design specification for the BBR.
Topographically Controlled Marangoni-Rayleigh-Bénard Convection in Liquid Metals
Authors: Lappa Marcello , Sayar Aydin , Waris Wasim
Published: December 2021

Convection induced in a layer of liquid with a top free surface by a distribution of heating elements at the bottom can be seen as a variant of standard Marangoni–Rayleigh–Bénard Convection where in place of a flat boundary at constant temperature delimiting the system from below, the underlying thermal inhomogeneity reflects the existence of a topography. In the present work, this problem is investigated numerically through solution of the governing equations for mass, momentum and energy in their complete, three-dimensional time-dependent and non-linear form. Emphasis is given to a class of liquids for which thermal diffusion is expected to dominate over viscous effects (liquid metals). Fixing the Rayleigh and Marangoni number to 104 and 5 × 103, respectively, the sensitivity of the problem to the geometrical, kinematic and thermal boundary conditions is investigated parametrically by changing: the number and spacing of heating elements, their vertical extension, the nature of the lateral boundary (solid walls or periodic boundary) and the thermal behavior of the portions of bottom wall between adjoining elements (assumed to be either adiabatic or at the same temperature of the hot blocks). It is shown that, like the parent phenomena, this type of thermal flow is extremely sensitive to the specific conditions considered. The topography can be used to exert a control on the emerging flow in terms of temporal response and patterning behavior.
Characterization of Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder Extract Encapsulated in Maltodextrin and/or Gum Arabic Coatings
Authors: George Toyosi T. , Oyenihi Ayodeji B. , Rautenbach Fanie , Obilana Anthony O.
Published: December 2021

The encapsulation of bioactive-rich plant extracts is an effective method of preventing their damage or loss of activity during processing and storage. Here, the techno-functional properties of microcapsules developed from Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MoLP) extract (core) with maltodextrin (MD), gum Arabic (GA), and a combination (MDGA) (coatings) were assessed. The bulk and tap density were 0.177, 0.325 and 0.297 g/mL and 0.13, 0.295 and 0.259 g/mL for GA, MD and MDGA microcapsules, respectively. Flowability properties of microcapsules indicated an intermediate flow except for GA which had a poor flow. The moisture content of the microcapsules ranged from 1.47% to 1.77% with no significant differences (p > 0.05) observed. All the microcapsules had high water solubility (86.35% for GA to 98.74% for MD and 90.51% for MDGA). Thermogravimetric analyses revealed that encapsulation enhanced the thermal stability of the core material. The X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the microcapsules and extracts have an amorphous nature, which was validated by the surface morphology analysis that showed amorphous, irregular, and flake-like attributes except for MDGA microcapsules which had slightly spherical and agglomerated surfaces. The Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectra of the microcapsules showed the presence of C-O and O-H aromatic rings as well as amine groups. New spectra were observed at 1177, 1382 and 1411 cm−1 for MDGA, MD and GA, respectively, after encapsulation, which connotes a slight modification in the chemical structural pattern after encapsulation. Storage stability tests (28 days at 4, 25 and 40 °C) showed that the microcapsules were most stable at 4 °C and the stability differs significantly (p ≤ 0.05) with coating material type and temperature with MDGA showing better storage stability than others. Altogether, the attributes of the MDGA microcapsules were comparatively better than either MD or GA alone. The present data, therefore, demonstrate an effective encapsulation process for MoLP extract that can serve as fortificants in processed food products where MoLP may be used.
Assessing the Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Salmon Frame Proteins through Different By-Product/Water Ratios and pH Regimes
Authors: Valencia Pedro , Valdivia Silvana , Nuñez Suleivys , Ovissipour Reza , Pinto Marlene , Ramirez Cristian , Perez Alvaro , Ruz Manuel , Garcia Paula , Jimenez Paula , Almonacid Sergio
Published: December 2021

The enzymatic hydrolysis of fish by-product proteins is traditionally carried out by mixing ground by-products with water. In addition, pH control is used to avoid pH drops. Higher costs are involved due to the use of pH control systems and the consequent energy cost in the drying stage. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of these conditions on the hydrolysis of salmon frame (SF) proteins, including the SF hydrolysis without added water. SF hydrolysis by subtilisin at 50, 75, and 100% SF under different pH regimes were evaluated by released α-amino (α-NH) groups, total nitrogen, degree of hydrolysis, and estimated peptide chain length (PCL) at 55 °C. The concentration of released α-NH groups was higher in the conditions with less added water. However, the nitrogen recovery decreased from 50 to 24% at 50 and 100% SF, respectively. Changing the SF/water ratio had a more significant effect than changing the pH regime. Estimated PCL changed from 5–7 to 7–9 at 50 and 100% SF, respectively. The operating conditions affected the hydrolysis performance and the molecular characteristics of the hydrolysate.
Se-O Bond Is Unique to High Se Enriched Sweet Potato Stem Protein with Better Antioxidant Ability
Authors: Gao Qi , Wu Jia-Le , Jiang Lan-Ping , Sun Su-Qi , Gu Xue-Jun , Tie Mei , Tanokura Masaru , Xue You-Lin
Published: December 2021

Sweet potato plants were treated with selenium (Se). Spraying Se on the sweet potato leaves was an effective Se enrichment method and proteins were extracted from the sweet potato stem. The structural characteristics of the protein were investigated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) detected more signals from the Se-enriched sweet potato stem protein (SSP), and the number of forms of Se chemical bonds gradually increased with increasing Se content, such as the Se-O bond in high Se-enriched SSP, indicating altered secondary structures.Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM-EDS) indicated more Se atoms in the Se-enriched SSPs (SSSPs). The DSC results revealed that Se enrichment enhanced the thermal stability of the samples. Moreover, selenomethionine (SeMet), selenocystine (SeCys2), and methylselenocysteine (MeSeCys) were determined to be the main Se forms in the SSSPs. Furthermore, the SSSPs showed relatively higher superoxide anion radical and DPPH radical scavenging activities than the blank, which indicates that SSSPs can be used as antioxidants. By recovering the proteins, the agricultural by-product—sweet potato stem can be further utilized, and the obtained Se-enriched proteins may contribute to human health.
A Novel Method of a High Pressure Processing Pre-Treatment on the Juice Yield and Quality of Persimmon
Authors: Xu Jiayue , Wang Yilun , Zhang Xinyue , Zhao Zhen , Yang Yao , Yang Xin , Wang Yongtao , Liao Xiaojun , Zhao Liang
Published: December 2021

This study investigates the effects of a high pressure processing pre-treatment (pre-HPP) on the juice yield of persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) pulp and the pre-HPP plus HPP or thermal processing (TP) on microorganism inactivation and quality changes of the persimmon juice. The “Gongcheng” persimmon was selected with the highest juice yield (48.9%), and the pre-HPP set at 300 MPa/8 min increased the juice yield by 60% through an increasing pectin methylesterase (PME) activity of 25.03% and by maintaining polygalacturonase (PG) activity. For different processing modes, namely, pre-HPP plus HPP at 550 Mpa/5 min and pre-HPP plus TP treatment at 95 °C/5 min, both of the guaranteed microorganisms in the juice were below 2.0 lg CFU/mL; however, the persimmon juice treated by the pre-HPP plus HPP had higher contents of total phenol and ascorbic acid which were 16.07 mg GAE/100 g and 17.92 mg/100 mL, respectively, a lower content of soluble tannin which was 55.64 μg/mL, better clarity which was 18.6% and less color change where the ΔE was only 2.68.
Monthly Disposable Income Is a Crucial Factor Affecting the Quality of Life in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Lee Tian-Shyug , Liu Hsiang-Chuan , Tsaur Wei-Guang , Lee Shih-Pin
Published: December 2021

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) affects the quality of life (QOL) of elderly people; this study examines the demographic characteristics and QOL of patients with knee OA and identifies demographic characteristics that affect the QOL of these patients. In this cross-sectional study, 30 healthy controls and 60 patients with mild-to-moderate bilateral knee OA aged between 55 and 75 years were enrolled. All participants completed a questionnaire containing questions on 10 demographic characteristics and the Medical Outcome Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), and their QOL scores in the eight dimensions of the SF-36 were evaluated. In the OA group, significant correlations were observed between monthly disposable income and physical and mental health components. Monthly disposable income was found to considerably affect the QOL of patients with bilateral knee OA (i.e., it is a crucial factor affecting these patients). The findings of this study may provide a reference for formulating preventive strategies for healthy individuals and for future confirmatory research.
Trends in COVID-19 Health Disparities in North Carolina: Preparing the Field for Long-Haul Patients
Authors: Muratori Holanda Thais , Alberico Claudia , Rios-Colon Leslimar , Arthur Elena , Kumar Deepak
Published: December 2021

Long-term coronavirus disease 2019 (long-COVID) refers to persistent symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) lingering beyond four weeks of initial infection. Approximately 30% of COVID-19 survivors develop prolonged symptoms. Communities of color are disproportionately affected by comorbidities, increasing the risk of severe COVID-19 and potentially leading to long-COVID. This study aims to identify trends in health disparities related to COVID-19 cases, which can help unveil potential populations at risk for long-COVID. All North Carolina (NC) counties (n = 100) were selected as a case study. Cases and vaccinations per 1000 population were calculated based on the NC Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 dashboard with reports current as of 8 October 2021, which were stratified by age groups and race/ethnicity. Then, NC COVID-19 cases were correlated to median household income, poverty, population density, and social vulnerability index themes. We observed a negative correlation between cases (p < 0.05) and deaths (p < 0.01) with both income and vaccination status. Moreover, there was a significant positive association between vaccination status and median household income (p < 0.01). Our results highlight the prevailing trend between exacerbated COVID-19 infection and low-income/under-resourced communities. Consequently, efforts and resources should be channeled to these communities to effectively monitor, diagnose, and treat against COVID-19 and potentially prevent an overwhelming number of long-COVID cases.
Experience of Primary Care Nurses of Sexuality Care for Persons with Disabilities: A Qualitative Study
Authors: El-Marbouhe-El-Faqyr Karim , Jiménez-Lasserrotte María del Mar , Fernández-Medina Isabel María , Fernández-Sola Cayetano , Hernández-Padilla José Manuel , Antequera-Raynal Laura Helena
Published: December 2021

(1) Background: Disability is a dynamic interaction between a person’s health conditions and personal and environmental factors. Disability is an evolving concept, which can be improved by intervening in the barriers that prevent disabled people from functioning in their daily life and enjoying a satisfactory sexual life. Sexuality is an important dimension of life that affects people’s well-being. The aim was to describe and understand the experiences of primary care nurses regarding care for the sexuality of persons with disabilities. (2) Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was designed. Twenty-one in-depth interviews were conducted with nurses. A thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. (3) Results: three main themes emerged: (1) Initial assessment of the patient: competencies for a nurse-patient therapeutic relationship; (2) A comprehensive approach to nursing care for persons with disabilities: the importance of sexuality; and (3) Sex counselling in nursing consultations. (4) Conclusions: Nurses have the skills to develop a good therapeutic relationship with patients. Planning of nursing interventions is required in order to promote individual coping, emotional support, and sex education. Sex counselling is essential to promote autonomy, with the figure of the sex therapist emerging for this purpose.
UV-B Radiation as Abiotic Elicitor to Enhance Phytochemicals and Development of Red Cabbage Sprouts
Authors: Martínez-Zamora Lorena , Castillejo Noelia , Artés-Hernández Francisco
Published: December 2021

Background: The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of periodical UV-B illumination during red cabbage germination on morphological development and the phenolics and carotenoid accumulation. Methods: During a sprouting period of 10 days at 20 °C in darkness, seedlings received 5, 10, or 15 kJ m−2 UV-B (T5, T10, and T15) applied in four steps (25% on days 3, 5, 7, and 10). UV untreated sprouts were used as control (CTRL). After 10 days of germination, the sprouts were harvested and stored 10 days at 4 °C as a minimally processed product. Phenolic and carotenoid compounds were analysed 1 h after each UV-B application and on days 0, 4, 7, and 10 during cold storage. Results: The longest hypocotyl length was observed in T10-treated sprouts. The total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) increased during germination following a sigmoidal kinetic, especially in the UV-B-treated samples, which reported a dose-dependent behaviour. In this way, T10-treated sprouts increased the TPC by 40% after 10 days at 4 °C compared to CTRL, while TAC and TFC increased by 35 and 30%, respectively. Carotenoids were enhanced with higher UV-B doses (T15). Conclusions: We found that UV-B stimulated the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds, and a dose of 10 kJ m−2 UV-B, proportionally applied on days 3, 5, 7, and 10 days, is recommended.
Splash Erosion on Terraces, Does It Make a Difference If the Terracing Is Done before or after a Fire?
Authors: Fernández-Raga María , Martins Martinho A. S. , Marcos Porras Elena , Fraile Roberto , Keizer Jan Jacob
Published: December 2021

Terraces are a common Mediterranean feature influencing soils, slopes and subsurface hydrology; however, little is known about their impact on erosion processes, especially in humid regions. The purpose of this study was to assess how terracing after a fire affected erosion processes such as splash erosion. For 8 months, the study monitored splash erosion in three terraced plots, one plot under pre-fire conditions and the other two under post-fire conditions. Assessment of the impact of the terracing treatment in such plots was carried out by the installation of two different splash erosion quantitative systems: cups and funnels. An analysis of the splash data obtained in 17 rainfall events and meteorological data collected during each one of those periods was then performed. A significant positive correlation between the amount of rainfall and the splash erosion was observed. The two splash sampling systems show a high degree of concordance; however, the funnel-type model seems to be the most appropriate when it comes to preventing loss of splashed soil samples. The post-fire treatment with terracing leads to a smaller stability of surface soil aggregates, causing higher splash erosion rates. Sampling using the funnel system collects three times the amount of splashed soil than that collected by the cup system, although both systems correlate appropriately with the meteorological parameters.
Sensitive and Robust LC-MS/MS Assay to Quantify 25-Hydroxyvitamin D in Leftover Protein Extract from Dried Blood Spots
Authors: Boelt Sanne Grundvad , Melgaard Lars , Thorbek Marta Jadwiga , MacSween Nadia Sara Jensen , McGrath John J. , Cohen Arieh S.
Published: December 2021

Neonatal dried blood spots (DBS) provide a remarkable resource for biobanks. These microsamples can provide information related to the genetic correlates of disease and can be used to quantify a range of analytes, such as proteins and small molecules. However, after routine neonatal screening, the amount of DBS sample available is limited. To optimize the use of these samples, there is a need for sensitive assays which are integrated across different analytic platforms. For example, after DNA extraction, protein extracts are available for additional analyses. We describe a sensitive and robust LC-MS/MS method for 25-hydroxyvitamin D2 and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 optimized for leftover protein extracts from DBS, which has excellent recovery, precision, and accuracy.
Structural Performance Assessment of Airfield Concrete Pavements Based on Field and Laboratory Data
Authors: Gkyrtis Konstantinos , Armeni Angeliki , Plati Christina , Loizos Andreas
Published: December 2021

Maintenance interventions and rehabilitation actions in airfield pavements are time-consuming and adversely affect pavements’ serviceability (i.e., airport closures), with a profound impact on the airport economics. Once a pavement is constructed, a robust asset management prerequisites systematic and accurate knowledge of pavement condition throughout its service life. Evaluating a pavement’s structural capacity in the field involves the integration of multiple Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) systems, with the Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) being the most indicative NDT system for pavement evaluation. The purpose of the present study is to develop a methodology for the assessment of airfield concrete pavements. A new and non-trafficked Jointed Plain Concrete Pavement (JPCP), facing early-life cracks shortly after a runway’s expansion activities, was utilized for the investigation. Multiple types of data collected in the field, including deflections, load transfer efficiency at joints and cracks, concrete thickness through coring as well as data retrieved in the laboratory (concrete’s flexural strength), helped to define the pavement’s performance and assess its damage potential. Overall, the integration of such data can provide the related airport authorities the necessary information in order to make a rational asset management and enhance the efficiency of airfield infrastructures. The methodology is applicable for both new and in-service pavements.
When Should Premature Ventricular Contractions Be Considered as a Red Flag in Children with Cardiomyopathy?
Authors: Cicenia Marianna , Silvetti Massimo S. , Drago Fabrizio
Published: December 2021

Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are common and generally benign in childhood and tend to resolve spontaneously in most cases. When PVCs occur frequently, an arrhythmia-induced cardiomyopathy may be present requiring medical or catheter ablation. PVCs are only rarely the manifestation of a cardiomyopathy. The purpose of this review is to provide some tips and tricks to raise the suspicion of a cardiac disease based on the presence and characteristics of PVCs in children.
Cardiac Organoids and Gastruloids to Study Physio-Pathological Heart Development
Authors: Jaconi Marisa E. , Puceat Michel
Published: December 2021

Ethical issues restrict research on human embryos, therefore calling for in vitro models to study human embryonic development including the formation of the first functional organ, the heart. For the last five years, two major models have been under development, namely the human gastruloids and the cardiac organoids. While the first one mainly recapitulates the gastrulation and is still limited to investigate cardiac development, the second one is becoming more and more helpful to mimic a functional beating heart. The review reports and discusses seminal works in the fields of human gastruloids and cardiac organoids. It further describes technologies which improve the formation of cardiac organoids. Finally, we propose some lines of research towards the building of beating mini-hearts in vitro for more relevant functional studies.
A Fast and Accurate Approach to Multiple-Vehicle Localization and Tracking from Monocular Aerial Images
Authors: Tøttrup Daniel , Skovgaard Stinus Lykke , Sejersen Jonas le Fevre , Pimentel de Figueiredo Rui
Published: December 2021

In this work we present a novel end-to-end solution for tracking objects (i.e., vessels), using video streams from aerial drones, in dynamic maritime environments. Our method relies on deep features, which are learned using realistic simulation data, for robust object detection, segmentation and tracking. Furthermore, we propose the use of rotated bounding-box representations, which are computed by taking advantage of pixel-level object segmentation, for improved tracking accuracy, by reducing erroneous data associations during tracking, when combined with the appearance-based features. A thorough set of experiments and results obtained in a realistic shipyard simulation environment, demonstrate that our method can accurately, and fast detect and track dynamic objects seen from a top-view.