bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implications of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Ailioaie Laura Marinela , Ailioaie Constantin , Litscher Gerhard
Published: April 2022

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) is a serious multifactorial autoinflammatory disease with a significant mortality rate due to macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). Recent research has deepened the knowledge about the pathophysiological mechanisms of sJIA-MAS, facilitating new targeted treatments, and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs), which significantly changed the course of the disease and prognosis. This review highlights that children are less likely to suffer severe COVID-19 infection, but at approximately 2–4 weeks, some cases of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) have been reported, with a fulminant course. Previous established treatments for cytokine storm syndrome (CSS) have guided COVID-19 therapeutics. sJIA-MAS is different from severe cases of COVID-19, a unique immune process in which a huge release of cytokines will especially flood the lungs. In this context, MIS-C should be reinterpreted as a special MAS, and long-term protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection can only be provided by the vaccine, but we do not yet have sufficient data. COVID-19 does not appear to have a substantial impact on rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) activity in children treated with bDMARDs, but the clinical features, severity and outcome in these patients under various drugs are not yet easy to predict. Multicenter randomized controlled trials are still needed to determine when and by what means immunoregulatory products should be administered to patients with sJIA-MAS with a negative corticosteroid response or contraindications, to optimize their health and safety in the COVID era.
Template-Free Preparation of a Mesopore-Rich Hierarchically Porous Carbon Monolith from a Thermally Rearrangeable Polyurea Network
Authors: Nam Junsik , Pak Yusin , Jung Gun Young , Park Ji-Woong
Published: April 2022

A mesopore-rich, hierarchically porous carbon monolith was prepared by carbonizing a polyisocyanurate network derived by thermal rearrangement of a polyurea network. The initial polyurea network was synthesized by the cross-linking polymerization of tetrakis(4-aminophenyl)methane (TAPM) and hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) in the sol-forming condition, followed by precipitation into nanoparticulate solids in a nonsolvent. The powder was molded into a shape and then heated at 200–400 °C to obtain the porous carbon precursor composed of the rearranged network. The thermolysis of urea bonds to amine and isocyanate groups, the subsequent cyclization of isocyanates to isocyanurates, and the vaporization of volatiles caused sintering of the nanoparticles into a monolithic network with micro-, meso-, and macropores. The rearranged network was carbonized to obtain a carbon monolith. It was found that the rearranged network, with a high isocyanurate ratio, led to a porous carbon with a high mesopore ratio. The electrical conductivity of the resulting carbon monoliths exhibited a rapid response to carbon dioxide adsorption, indicating efficient gas transport through the hierarchical pore structure.
Identification and Validation of miR-222-3p and miR-409-3p as Plasma Biomarkers in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Sharing Validated Target Genes Involved in Metabolic Homeostasis
Authors: Filardi Tiziana , Catanzaro Giuseppina , Grieco Giuseppina Emanuela , Splendiani Elena , Trocchianesi Sofia , Santangelo Carmela , Brunelli Roberto , Guarino Elisa , Sebastiani Guido , Dotta Francesco , Morano Susanna , Ferretti Elisabetta
Published: April 2022

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) causes both maternal and fetal adverse outcomes. The deregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) in GDM suggests their involvement in GDM pathogenesis and complications. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (EVs) of endosomal origin, released via exocytosis into the extracellular compartment. Through EVs, miRNAs are delivered in distant target cells and are able to affect gene expression. In this study, miRNA expression was analyzed to find new miRNAs that could improve GDM classification and molecular characterization. MiRNA were profiled in total plasma and EVs in GDM patients and normal glucose tolerance (NGT) women. Samples were collected at third trimester of gestation from two diabetes centers. MiRNA expression was profiled in a discovery cohort using the multiplexed NanoString nCounter Human v3 miRNA. Validation analysis was performed in a second independent cohort using RT-qPCR. A set of miRNAs resulted to be differentially expressed (DE) in total plasma and EVs in GDM. Among them, total plasma miR-222-3p and miR-409-3p were validated in the independent cohort. MiR-222-3p levels correlated with fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (p < 0.001) and birth weight (p = 0.012), whereas miR-409-3p expression correlated with FPG (p < 0.001) and inversely with gestational age (p = 0.001). The major validated target genes of the deregulated miRNAs were consistently linked to type 2 diabetes and GDM pathophysiology. MiR-222-3p and miR-409-3p are two circulating biomarkers that could improve GDM classification power and act in the context of the molecular events leading to the metabolic alterations observed in GDM.
In Vitro Angiogenesis Inhibition and Endothelial Cell Growth and Morphology
Authors: Ljoki Arlinda , Aslam Tanzila , Friis Tina , Ohm Ragnhild G. , Houen Gunnar
Published: April 2022

A co-culture assay with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) was used to study whether selected angiogenesis inhibitors were able to inhibit differentiation and network formation of HUVECs in vitro. The effect of the inhibitors was determined by the morphology and the calculated percentage area covered by HUVECs. Neutralizing VEGF with avastin and polyclonal goat anti-VEGF antibody and inhibiting VEGFR2 with sorafenib and vatalanib resulted in the formation of HUVEC clusters of variable sizes as a result of inhibited EC differentiation. Furthermore, numerous inhibitors of the VEGF signaling pathways were tested for their effect on the growth and differentiation of HUVECs. The effects of these inhibitors did not reveal a cluster morphology, either individually or when combined to block VEGFR2 downstream pathways. Only the addition of N-methyl-p-bromolevamisole revealed a similar morphology as when targeting VEGF and VEGFR2, meaning it may have an inhibitory influence directly on VEGFR signaling. Additionally, several nuclear receptor ligands and miscellaneous compounds that might affect EC growth and differentiation were tested, but only dexamethasone gave rise to cluster formation similarly to VEGF-neutralizing compounds. These results point to a link between angiogenesis, HUVEC differentiation and glucocorticoid receptor activation.
Institutional Strategies for Cybersecurity in Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Cheng Eric C. K. , Wang Tianchong
Published: April 2022

Cybersecurity threats have grown exponentially, posing a heavy burden on organisations. Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are particularly vulnerable, and their cybersecurity issues are receiving greater attention. However, existing research on cybersecurity has limited referencing value for HEI leaders and policy-makers because they are usually technology-focused. Publications that showcase best practices often lack system-wide perspectives towards cybersecurity in HEIs. Our paper, therefore, aims to bridge this literature gap and generate institutional cybersecurity strategies for HEI leaders and policy-makers from a system perspective. We first review how the cybersecurity landscape has evolved over the last few decades and its latest trends and projections for the next decade. By analysing these historical developments and new changes, we further illuminate the importance of strengthening HEI cybersecurity capacities. As we explore why HEIs face severe challenges to tackle the ever-escalating cyberattacks, we propose a system-wide approach to safeguard HEI cybersecurity and highlight the necessity to reassess prioritised areas. By taking an extensive literature review and desk research of methods that could respond to the cybersecurity vulnerabilities of the next decade, we synthesise our findings with a set of institutional strategies, with takeaways designed to equip HEIs better to address cybersecurity threats into the future. The strategies include: (1) Strengthening Institutional Governance for Cybersecurity; (2) Revisiting Cybersecurity KPIs; (3) Explicating Cybersecurity Policies, Guidelines and Mechanisms; (4) Training and Cybersecurity Awareness Campaigns to Build Cybersecurity Culture; (5) Responding to AI-based Cyber-threats and Harnessing AI to Enhance Cybersecurity; (6) Introduction of New and More Sophisticated Security Measures; (7) Paying Attention to Mobile Devices Use, Using Encryption as a Daily Practice; and (8) Risk Management. We believe that cybersecurity can be safeguarded throughout the new decade when these strategies are considered thoroughly and with the concerted effort of relevant HEI stakeholders.
Treatment of Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy: The Current Options, the Future, and the Challenges
Authors: Tschöpe Carsten , Elsanhoury Ahmed
Published: April 2022

Transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) is a progressively debilitating, rare disease associated with high mortality. ATTR-CM occurs when TTR amyloid protein builds up in the myocardium along with different organs, most commonly the peripheral and the autonomic nervous systems. Managing the cardiac complications with standard heart failure medications is difficult due to the challenge to maintain a balance between the high filling pressure associated with restricted ventricular volume and the low cardiac output. To date, tafamidis is the only agent approved for ATTR-CM treatment. Besides, several agents, including green tea, tolcapone, and diflunisal, are used off-label in ATTR-CM patients. Novel therapies using RNA interference also offer clinical promise. Patisiran and inotersen are currently approved for ATTR-polyneuropathy of hereditary origin and are under investigation for ATTR-CM. Monoclonal antibodies in the early development phases carry hope for amyloid deposit clearance. Despite several drug candidates in the clinical development pipeline, the small ATTR-CM patient population raises several challenges. This review describes current and future therapies for ATTR-CM and sheds light on the clinical development hurdles facing them.
Addressing the Directionality Challenge through RSSI-Based Multilateration Technique, to Localize Nodes in Underwater WSNs by Using Magneto-Inductive Communication
Authors: Qiao Gang , Muhammad Aman , Muzzammil Muhammad , Shoaib Khan Muhammad , Tariq Muhammad Owais , Khan Muhammad Shahbaz
Published: April 2022

The deployment and efficient use of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) in underwater and underground environments persists to be a difficult task. In addition, the localization of a sensor Rx node in WSNs is an important aspect for the successful communication with the aforementioned environments. To overcome the limitations of electromagnetic, acoustic, and optical communication in underwater and underground wireless sensor networks (UWSNs), magneto-inductive (MI) communication technology emerged as a promising alternative for usage in UWSNs with a wide range of applications. To make the magneto-inductive underwater wireless sensor networks (MI-UWSNs) more efficient, recently, various research studies focused on the optimization of the physical layer, MAC layer, and routing layer, but none of them has taken into account the effect of directionality. Despite the directionality issue posed by the physical nature of a magnetic field, the unique qualities of MI communication open up a gateway for several applications. The directionality issue of MI sensors is a critical challenge that must be taken into account while developing any WSN protocol or localization algorithm. This paper highlights and discusses the severity and impact of the directionality issue in designing a localization algorithm for magneto-inductive wireless sensor networks (MI-WSNs). A received signal strength indicator (RSSI)-based multilateration localization algorithm is presented in this paper, where a minimum of 2 and maximum of 10 anchor Tx nodes are used to estimate the position of the sensor Rx nodes, which are deployed randomly in a 15 m × 15 m simulation environment. This RSSI-based multilateration technique is the most suitable option that can be used to quantify the impact of directionality on the localization of a sensor Rx node.
Hydration Dynamics of Model Peptides with Different Hydrophobic Character
Authors: Lupi Laura , Bracco Brenda , Sassi Paola , Corezzi Silvia , Morresi Assunta , Fioretto Daniele , Comez Lucia , Paolantoni Marco
Published: April 2022

The multi-scale dynamics of aqueous solutions of the hydrophilic peptide N-acetyl-glycine-methylamide (NAGMA) have been investigated through extended frequency-range depolarized light scattering (EDLS), which enables the broad-band detection of collective polarizability anisotropy fluctuations. The results have been compared to those obtained for N-acetyl-leucinemethylamide (NALMA), an amphiphilic peptide which shares with NAGMA the same polar backbone, but also contains an apolar group. Our study indicates that the two model peptides induce similar effects on the fast translational dynamics of surrounding water. Both systems slow down the mobility of solvating water molecules by a factor 6–8, with respect to the bulk. Moreover, the two peptides cause a comparable far-reaching spatial perturbation extending to more than two hydration layers in diluted conditions. The observed concentration dependence of the hydration number is explained considering the random superposition of different hydration shells, while no indication of solute aggregation phenomena has been found. The results indicate that the effect on the dynamics of water solvating the amphiphilic peptide is dominated by the hydrophilic backbone. The minor impact of the hydrophobic moiety on hydration features is consistent with structural findings derived by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) measurements, performed in attenuated total reflectance (ATR) configuration. Additionally, we give evidence that, for both systems, the relaxation mode in the GHz frequency range probed by EDLS is related to solute rotational dynamics. The rotation of NALMA occurs at higher timescales, with respect to the rotation of NAGMA; both processes are significantly slower than the structural dynamics of hydration water, suggesting that solute and solvent motions are uncoupled. Finally, our results do not indicate the presence of super-slow water (relaxation times in the order of tens of picoseconds) around the peptides investigated.
Spike-Wave Seizures, NREM Sleep and Micro-Arousals in WAG/Rij Rats with Genetic Predisposition to Absence Epilepsy: Developmental Aspects
Authors: Zhuravlev Maxim , Runnova Anastasiya , Smirnov Kirill , Sitnikova Evgenia
Published: April 2022

The current study was done in Wistar Albino Glaxo Rijswijk (WAG/Rij) rats, which are genetically prone to develop spontaneous spike-wave discharges (SWDs) and are widely used as a genetic model of absence epilepsy. Here, we examined functional links between sleep and spike-wave epilepsy in aging WAG/Rij rats using advanced techniques of EEG analysis. SWDs, periods of NREM sleep and micro-arousals were automatically detected in three-channel epidural EEG recorded in freely moving WAG/Rij rats consequently at the age 5, 7 and 9 months. We characterized the developmental profile of spike-wave epilepsy in drug-naïve WAG/Rij rats and defined three epi-phenotypes—severe, mild and minor epilepsy. Age-related changes of SWDs were associated with changes in NREM sleep. Several signs of NREM sleep fragmentation were defined in epileptic WAG/Rij rats. It seems that spike-wave epilepsy per se promotes micro-arousals during NREM sleep. However, subjects with a higher number of micro-arousals (and NREM sleep episodes) at the age of 5 months were characterized by a reduction of SWDs between 5 and 7 months of age.
Improvements of Slater’s Inequality by Means of 4-Convexity and Its Applications
Authors: You Xuexiao , Adil Khan Muhammad , Ullah Hidayat , Saeed Tareq
Published: April 2022

In 2021, Ullah et al., introduced a new approach for the derivation of results for Jensen’s inequality. The purpose of this article, is to use the same technique and to derive improvements of Slater’s inequality. The planned improvements are demonstrated in both discrete as well as in integral versions. The quoted results allow us to provide relationships for the power means. Moreover, with the help of established results, we present some estimates for the Csiszár and Kullback–Leibler divergences, Shannon entropy, and Bhattacharyya coefficient. In addition, we discuss some additional applications of the main results for the Zipf–Mandelbrot entropy.
Common Attractive Point Results for Two Generalized Nonexpansive Mappings in Uniformly Convex Banach Spaces
Authors: Thongphaen Chadarat , Inthakon Warunun , Suantai Suthep , Phudolsitthiphat Narawadee
Published: April 2022

In this work, we study some basic properties of the set of common attractive points and prove strong convergence results for common attractive points of two generalized nonexpansive mappings in a uniformly convex Banach space. As a consequence, we obtain a common fixed point result of such mappings and apply it to solving the convex minimization problem. Finally, numerical experiments are given to support our results.
Robust Optimization of High-Speed Railway Train Plan Based on Multiple Demand Scenarios
Authors: Zhou Wenliang , Kang Jing , Qin Jin , Li Sha , Huang Yu
Published: April 2022

The optimization of train plans is highly dependent on the space–time distribution of passenger demand in high-speed railway systems. A train plan usually needs to be implemented on multiple operation days, and obviously the amount and space–time distribution of demand over these days has noteworthy differences. To ensure the same train plan is able to be implemented on multiple operation days while effectively satisfying the different levels of demand on those days, a novel robust optimization of a high-speed railway train plan based on multiple demand scenarios is performed in this research. Firstly, the passenger demand of each operation day is described as a demand scenario, and a candidate train set is generated that is able to satisfy the multiple demand scenarios. Then, a regret value corresponding to the total cost, including the train operation cost and passenger travel expense, is proposed to measure the deviation in the costs generated between the robust and the optimal train plan under each demand scenario. Then a robust optimization model for a high-speed railway train plan is constructed to minimize the maximum regret value. Moreover, a simulated annealing algorithm for solving the model is designed by constructing some neighborhood solution search strategies for multiple demand scenarios. Finally, the validity and feasibility of the proposed robust optimization method for train planning are verified on the Shijiazhuang–Jinandong high-speed railway line in China.
Blasius Flow over a Permeable Moving Flat Plate Containing Cu-Al2O3 Hybrid Nanoparticles with Viscous Dissipation and Radiative Heat Transfer
Authors: Khashi’ie Najiyah Safwa , Waini Iskandar , Ishak Anuar , Pop Ioan
Published: April 2022

This study examines the Blasius flow with Cu-Al2O3 hybrid nanoparticles over a moving plate. Additionally, the effects of viscous dissipation and radiation are considered. Similarity transformation is employed to convert the respective model into similarity equations. The results are generated by using bvp4c in MATLAB. Findings reveal that two solutions are attained when both the free stream and the plate move in opposite directions. Moreover, the domains of the velocity ratio parameter are extended when suction is available. Besides, the upsurge of radiation and hybrid nanoparticles lead to the heat transfer enhancement. The rise in radiation heat energy incorporated in radiation parameter leads to the development of fluid temperature as well as the thermal boundary layer. Meanwhile, hybrid nanoparticles offer good thermal characteristics because of synergistic effects. However, the effects reduce with the rise in Eckert number. The first solution is stable and acceptable based on the temporal stability analysis. Furthermore, the critical/separation values of the physical parameters are also reported. With these findings, the optimized productivity will be achieved as well as the processes on certain products can be planned according to the desire output. This significant preliminary study provides future insight to the engineers and scientist on the real applications.
Mathematical Models and Methods for Research and Optimization of Protein Extraction Processes from Chickpea and Curd Whey Solutions by Electroflotation Coagulation Method
Authors: Timofeev Igor , Pleshakova Ekaterina , Dogadina Elena , Osipov Aleksey , Kochkarov Azret , Ignar Stefan , Suvorov Stanislav , Gataullin Sergey , Korchagin Sergey
Published: April 2022

The development of mathematical models and efficient technologies for the processing of protein-containing dairy and vegetable raw materials and the production of food and feed concentrates with controlled functional properties is one of the most promising areas within the agricultural industry. In this work, the suitability of the electroflotation coagulation method for the combined extraction of vegetable and milk proteins was established by changing the electrolysis parameters and directed regulation of the isoelectric state of proteins. The research methodology is based on modern achievements of leading domestic and foreign researchers in the field of electrolysis of solutions and the creation of reagentless technologies for extracting proteins, as well as on the use of guest methods of physicochemical analysis, pH-metry, potentiometric and organoleptic analysis, methods of cyclic chronovoltammetry and currentless chronopotentiometry. The paper presents technological schemes for the extraction of vegetable and milk proteins, based on the combination of electroflotation and electrocoagulation processes. We carried out technological tests, which made it possible to determine the optimal conditions that ensure the highest yield of the product and its quality indicators. Ready-made isolates and concentrates of chickpea proteins and curd whey were obtained.
Automatic Fingerprint Classification Using Deep Learning Technology (DeepFKTNet)
Authors: Saeed Fahman , Hussain Muhammad , Aboalsamh Hatim A.
Published: April 2022

Fingerprints are gaining in popularity, and fingerprint datasets are becoming increasingly large. They are often captured utilizing a variety of sensors embedded in smart devices such as mobile phones and personal computers. One of the primary issues with fingerprint recognition systems is their high processing complexity, which is exacerbated when they are gathered using several sensors. One way to address this issue is to categorize fingerprints in a database to condense the search space. Deep learning is effective in designing robust fingerprint classification methods. However, designing the architecture of a CNN model is a laborious and time-consuming task. We proposed a technique for automatically determining the architecture of a CNN model adaptive to fingerprint classification; it automatically determines the number of filters and the layers using Fukunaga–Koontz transform and the ratio of the between-class scatter to within-class scatter. It helps to design lightweight CNN models, which are efficient and speed up the fingerprint recognition process. The method was evaluated two public-domain benchmark datasets FingerPass and FVC2004 benchmark datasets, which contain noisy, low-quality fingerprints obtained using live scan devices and cross-sensor fingerprints. The designed models outperform the well-known pre-trained models and the state-of-the-art fingerprint classification techniques.
Special Issue on Miniaturized Transistors, Volume II
Authors: Filipovic Lado , Grasser Tibor
Published: April 2022

Due to the great success of the initial Special Issue on Miniaturized Transistors [...]
Nutraceutic Potential of Bioactive Compounds of Eugenia dysenterica DC in Metabolic Alterations
Authors: Santana Lidiani Figueiredo , Sasso Sandramara , Aquino Diana Figueiredo Santana , de Cássia Freitas Karine , de Cássia Avellaneda Guimarães Rita , Pott Arnildo , do Nascimento Valter Aragão , Bogo Danielle , de Oliveira Figueiredo Patrícia , Hiane Priscila Aiko
Published: April 2022

The fruit and leaves of Eugenia dysenterica DC., locally known as cagaita, are rich in antioxidant glycosylated quercetin derivatives and phenolic compounds that have beneficial effects on diabetes mellitus, hypertension and general inflammation. We conducted a literature search to investigate the nutraceutical potentials of these phenolic compounds for treating obesity, diabetes mellitus and intestinal inflammatory disease. The phenolic compounds in E. dysenterica have demonstrated effects on carbohydrate metabolism, which can prevent the development of these chronic diseases and reduce LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol and hypertension. E. dysenterica also improves intestinal motility and microbiota and protects gastric mucosa, thereby preventing inflammation. However, studies are necessary to identify the mechanism by which E. dysenterica nutraceutical compounds act on such pathological processes to support future research.
The Influence of Synthesis Conditions on the Antioxidant Activity of Selenium Nanoparticles
Authors: Sentkowska Aleksandra , Pyrzyńska Krystyna
Published: April 2022

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have attracted great attention in recent years due to their unique properties and potential bioactivities. While the production of SeNPs has been long reported, there is little news about the influence of reaction conditions and clean-up procedure on their physical properties (e.g., shape, size) as well as their antioxidant activity. This study takes up this issue. SeNPs were synthesized by two methods using cysteine and ascorbic acid as selenium reductants. The reactions were performed with and without the use of polyvinyl alcohol as a stabilizer. After the synthesis, SeNPs were cleaned using various procedures. The antioxidant properties of the obtained SeNPs were investigated using DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging assays. It was found that their antioxidant activity does not always depend only on the nanoparticles size but also on their homogeneity. Moreover, the size and morphology of selenium nanoparticles are controlled by the clean-up step.
Antibacterial Mechanisms of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle against Bacterial Food Pathogens Resistant to Beta-Lactam Antibiotics
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Rajapandiyan , Athinarayanan Jegan , Periyasamy Vaiyapuri Subbarayan , Alshuniaber Mohammad A. , Alshammari Ghedeir , Hakeem Mohammed Jamal , Ahmed Mohammed Asif , Alshatwi Ali A.
Published: April 2022

The increase in β-lactam-resistant Gram-negative bacteria is a severe recurrent problem in the food industry for both producers and consumers. The development of nanotechnology and nanomaterial applications has transformed many features in food science. The antibacterial activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and their mechanism of action on β-lactam-resistant Gram-negative food pathogens, such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Serratia marcescens, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis, are investigated in the present paper. The study results demonstrate that ZnO NPs possesses broad-spectrum action against these β-lactamase-producing strains. The minimal inhibitory and minimal bactericidal concentrations vary from 0.04 to 0.08 and 0.12 to 0.24 mg/mL, respectively. The ZnO NPs elevate the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde in the bacterial cells as membrane lipid peroxidation. It has been confirmed from the transmission electron microscopy image of the treated bacterial cells that ZnO NPs diminish the permeable membrane, denature the intracellular proteins, cause DNA damage, and cause membrane leakage. Based on these findings, the action of ZnO NPs has been attributed to the fact that broad-spectrum antibacterial action against β-lactam-resistant Gram-negative food pathogens is mediated by Zn2+ ion-induced oxidative stress, actions via lipid peroxidation and membrane damage, subsequently resulting in depletion, leading to β-lactamase enzyme inhibition, intracellular protein inactivation, DNA damage, and eventually cell death. Based on the findings of the present study, ZnO NPs can be recommended as potent broad-spectrum antibacterial agents against β-lactam-resistant Gram-negative pathogenic strains.
Phenolic Contents, Organic Acids, and the Antioxidant and Bio Activity of Wild Medicinal Berberis Plants- as Sustainable Sources of Functional Food
Authors: Yang Liu , Zhang Zhenyuan , Hu Xiaoying , You Lixin , Khan Raja Asad Ali , Yu Yan
Published: April 2022

Wild fruits have increasingly been investigated as part of recent searches for food products with a high antioxidant activity. In this study, wild edible berberis Berberis vulgaris collected from three different provinces (Jilin, Heilongjiang, and Liaoning) were investigated for their phenolic contents, organic acid contents, mineral contents, antioxidant activity as well as their antimicrobial potential against a range of common food borne pathogens. In addition, a physiochemical and mineral analysis of the fruits was also performed. The methanol extracts of berberis fruit collected from Jilin province were highly active against all the studied food borne bacterial pathogens, i.e., S. aureus and L. monocytogenes, E. coli, P. fluorescens, V. parahaemolyticus, and A. caviae while the berberis extracts from Heilongjiang and Liaoning showed activity only against Gram-negative bacteria. The phenolic content and antioxidant activity were determined by the HPLC separation method and β-carotene bleaching methods, respectively. Four organic acids such as malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, and succinic acid were identified while a variety of phenolic compounds were detected among which catechin, chlorogenic acid, and gallic acid were found to be the predominant phenolic compounds in all three of berberis fruit samples. The berberis fruit from Jilin was found to be superior to the Heilongjiang and Liaoning fruit regarding desired physiochemical analysis; however, there were no significant differences in the mineral contents among the three samples. Overall, the berberis fruit from Jilin was ranked as the best in term of the nutritional, physiochemical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. This study confirms the various useful characteristics and features of berberis at a molecular level that can be used as a sustainable source for their potential nutritional applications for making functional foods in different food industries.
Nanostructured Coatings: Review on Processing Techniques, Corrosion Behaviour and Tribological Performance
Authors: Farooq Sheikh Aamir , Raina Ankush , Mohan Sanjay , Arvind Singh Ramachandra , Jayalakshmi Subramanian , Irfan Ul Haq Mir
Published: April 2022

Corrosion and tribology are surface phenomena. Modifying surfaces of materials without resorting to altering their bulk properties is an effective route to alleviate corrosion, friction and wear, encountered in engineering applications. With the advancements in the field of nanotechnology, surface protective coatings with nanomaterials can be readily developed to explore their functionality in mitigating chemical/physical damage of surfaces. Surface protection enhances performance and operating lifetimes of industrial machinery components. This review presents insights on various types of recently developed nanostructured coatings, their synthesis routes, corrosion behaviour and tribological performance. It provides the state-of-the-art information on the development of nanostructured coatings, namely, ceramic coatings, metallic coatings and nanocomposite coatings with metal and polymer matrices. Biomimetic approaches in making nanostructured coatings and challenges encountered in the development of nanostructured coatings are highlighted.
TiO2/CuO/Cu2O Photovoltaic Nanostructures Prepared by DC Reactive Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Wisz Grzegorz , Sawicka-Chudy Paulina , Sibiński Maciej , Płoch Dariusz , Bester Mariusz , Cholewa Marian , Woźny Janusz , Yavorskyi Rostyslav , Nykyruy Lyubomyr , Ruszała Marta
Published: April 2022

In this study, titanium dioxide/copper oxide thin-film solar cells were prepared using the reactive direct-current magnetron sputtering technique. The influence of the deposition time of the top Cu contact layer on the structural and electrical properties of photovoltaic devices was analyzed. The structural and morphological characterization of the TiO2/CuO/Cu2O solar cells was fully studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and current–voltage (I-V) characteristics. Additionally, using van der Pauw sample geometries, the electrical properties of the titanium dioxide and copper oxide layers were investigated. From the XRD study, solar cells were observed in cubic (Cu2O), monoclinic (CuO), and Ti3O5 phases. In addition, the crystallite size and dislocation density for copper oxide layers were calculated. Basic morphological parameters (thickness, mechanism of growth, and composition of elements) were analyzed via scanning electron microscopy. The thicknesses of the titanium dioxide and copper oxide layers were in the range of 43–55 nm and 806–1223 nm, respectively. Furthermore, the mechanism of growth and the basic composition of the elements of layers were analyzed. The I-V characteristic curve confirms the photovoltaic behavior of two titanium dioxide/copper oxide thin-film structures. The values of short-circuit current density (Jsc) and open-circuit voltage (Voc) of the solar cells were: 4.0 ± 0.8 µA/cm2, 16.0 ± 4.8 mV and 0.43 ± 0.61 µA/cm2, 0.54 ± 0.31 mV, respectively. In addition, the authors presented the values of Isc, Pmax, FF, and Rsh. Finally, the resistivity, carrier concentration, and mobility are reported for selected layers with values reflecting the current literature.
Combined Action of Hyper-Harmonized Hydroxylated Fullerene Water Complex and Hyperpolarized Light Leads to Melanoma Cell Reprogramming In Vitro
Authors: Markelić Milica , Drača Dijana , Krajnović Tamara , Jović Zorana , Vuksanović Milica , Koruga Djuro , Mijatović Sanja , Maksimović-Ivanić Danijela
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: Their unique structure and electron deficiency have brought fullerenes into the focus of research in many fields, including medicine. The hyper-harmonized hydroxylated fullerene water complex (3HFWC) formulation has solved the limitations of the poor solubility and bioavailability of fullerenes. To achieve better antitumor activity, 3HFWC was combined with short-term irradiation of cells with hyperpolarized light (HPL) generated by the application of a nanophotonic fullerene filter in a Bioptron® device. The benefits of HPL were confirmed in the microcirculation, wound healing and immunological function. (2) Methods: B16, B16-F10 and A375 melanoma cells were exposed to a wide spectrum of 3HFWC doses and to a single short-term HPL irradiation. (3) Results: Apart from the differences in the redox status and level of invasiveness, the effects of the treatments were quite similar. Decreased viability, morphological alteration, signs of melanocytic differentiation and cellular senescence were observed upon the successful internalization of the nanoquantum substance. (4) Conclusions: Overall, 3HFWC/HPL promoted melanoma cell reprogramming toward a normal phenotype.
Validation of a Low-protein Semi-Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire
Authors: Evans Sharon , Ashmore Catherine , Daly Anne , Jackson Richard , Pinto Alex , MacDonald Anita
Published: April 2022

Analysis of dietary patterns and their role in long-term health is limited in phenylketonuria (PKU). Food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) are commonly used to assess habitual intake. A semi-quantitative 89-item FFQ with a portion size photographic booklet was developed for children with PKU as a tool for collecting data on habitual intake of foods, food groups, energy and macronutrient intake. Twenty children with PKU aged 11–16 years, 30 parents of children with PKU aged 4–10 years, and 50 age/gender-matched control children were recruited. To test reproducibility, FFQs were completed twice with a mean interval of 5 weeks (range: 4–10). In order to test validity, FFQs were compared with five 24-h dietary recalls with a mean interval of 10 days (range: 6–18). Energy and macronutrient intake and quantity/week of individual food items were calculated and compared. There was good reproducibility for the FFQ with macronutrient correlations r > 0.6 and good validity data with most correlations r > 0.5. Bland–Altman plots for reproducibility and validity showed mean levels close to 0 and usually within 2 standard deviations. FFQ comparisons of PKU and control groups identified expected differences in % energy from macronutrients (PKU vs. control: carbohydrate 59% vs. 51%, fat 26% vs. 33%, protein 15% vs. 16%). This FFQ for PKU produced comparable data to repeated dietary recalls and is a valid tool for collecting data on habitual food and nutrient intake. It will be useful in assessing changes in dietary phenylalanine tolerance of new pharmacological treatments for PKU.
Probiotics for the Prevention of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Cheema Huzaifa Ahmad , Shahid Abia , Ayyan Muhammad , Mustafa Biah , Zahid Afra , Fatima Maurish , Ehsan Muhammad , Athar Farwa , Duric Natalie , Szakmany Tamas
Published: April 2022

Background: Presently, there is conflicting evidence regarding the efficacy of probiotics in the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). This meta-analysis was conducted to update current clinical evidence and evaluate the efficacy and safety of probiotics for the prevention of VAP. Methods: We searched three databases and two trial registers to retrieve randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing probiotics or synbiotics with placebo or standard treatment for the prevention of VAP in adult patients receiving mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit (ICU). Results: Our meta-analysis included 18 RCTs involving 4893 patients. Our results showed that probiotics may reduce the incidence of VAP (RR 0.68, 95% CI: 0.55–0.84; low certainty). However, in our subgroup and sensitivity analyses, the effect was not significant in double-blind studies, and in studies with a low risk of bias in the randomisation process. Probiotics reduced the length of ICU stay (MD −2.22 days, 95% CI: −4.17 to −0.28; moderate certainty) and the duration of antibiotic use (MD −1.25 days, 95% CI −1.86 to −0.64; moderate certainty). Conclusions: Probiotics may reduce the incidence of VAP but due to the low quality of pooled evidence, the use of probiotics warrants caution. Further, large-scale, high-quality RCTs need to be conducted to provide conclusive evidence.
The Impact of the Universal Infant Free School Meal Policy on Dietary Quality in English and Scottish Primary School Children: Evaluation of a Natural Experiment
Authors: Parnham Jennie C. , Chang Kiara , Millett Christopher , Laverty Anthony A. , von Hinke Stephanie , Pearson-Stuttard Jonathan , de Vocht Frank , White Martin , Vamos Eszter P.
Published: April 2022

The Universal Infant Free School Meal (UIFSM) policy was introduced in September 2014 in England and January 2015 in Scotland and offered all infant schoolchildren (ages 4–7 years) a free school lunch, regardless of income. Yet, impacts of UIFSM on dietary intakes or social inequalities are not known. A difference-in-differences study using the National Diet and Nutrition Survey assessed pooled pre-UIFSM (2010–2014) and post-UIFSM (2014–2017) dietary data. English or Scottish infant schoolchildren (4–7 years; n = 458) were the intervention group, with junior schoolchildren (8–11 years; n = 401) as controls. We found that implementation of UIFSM led to an increase in infant schoolchildren having a school meal. Impacts on key food groups such as fruit and vegetables or sweetened beverages were not seen. However, there was evidence that the UIFSM policy lowered consumption of foods associated with packed lunches, such as crisps, and some nutrients, such as total fat and sodium. Policy impacts differed by income group, with larger effect sizes in low-income children. In conclusion, evaluation of UIFSM demonstrated some improvements in dietary quality but the findings suggest school meal quality needs to be improved to fully realise the benefits of UIFSM.
Beyond the Calorie Paradigm: Taking into Account in Practice the Balance of Fat and Carbohydrate Oxidation during Exercise?
Authors: Brun Jean-Frédéric , Myzia Justine , Varlet-Marie Emmanuelle , Raynaud de Mauverger Eric , Mercier Jacques
Published: April 2022

Recent literature shows that exercise is not simply a way to generate a calorie deficit as an add-on to restrictive diets but exerts powerful additional biological effects via its impact on mitochondrial function, the release of chemical messengers induced by muscular activity, and its ability to reverse epigenetic alterations. This review aims to summarize the current literature dealing with the hypothesis that some of these effects of exercise unexplained by an energy deficit are related to the balance of substrates used as fuel by the exercising muscle. This balance of substrates can be measured with reliable techniques, which provide information about metabolic disturbances associated with sedentarity and obesity, as well as adaptations of fuel metabolism in trained individuals. The exercise intensity that elicits maximal oxidation of lipids, termed LIPOXmax, FATOXmax, or FATmax, provides a marker of the mitochondrial ability to oxidize fatty acids and predicts how much fat will be oxidized over 45–60 min of low- to moderate-intensity training performed at the corresponding intensity. LIPOXmax is a reproducible parameter that can be modified by many physiological and lifestyle influences (exercise, diet, gender, age, hormones such as catecholamines, and the growth hormone-Insulin-like growth factor I axis). Individuals told to select an exercise intensity to maintain for 45 min or more spontaneously select a level close to this intensity. There is increasing evidence that training targeted at this level is efficient for reducing fat mass, sparing muscle mass, increasing the ability to oxidize lipids during exercise, lowering blood pressure and low-grade inflammation, improving insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity, reducing blood glucose and HbA1c in type 2 diabetes, and decreasing the circulating cholesterol level. Training protocols based on this concept are easy to implement and accept in very sedentary patients and have shown an unexpected efficacy over the long term. They also represent a useful add-on to bariatric surgery in order to maintain and improve its weight-lowering effect. Additional studies are required to confirm and more precisely analyze the determinants of LIPOXmax and the long-term effects of training at this level on body composition, metabolism, and health.
Associations between Age at Menarche and Dietary Patterns with Blood Pressure in Southwestern Chinese Adults
Authors: Chen Ting , Mao Deqiang , Chen Liling , Tang Wenge , Ding Xianbin
Published: April 2022

The aim of our study was to examine the relationship between age at menarche (AM) and hypertension and to evaluate whether different dietary patterns have an effect on associations between AM and hypertension in a large-scale Han Chinese population in southwest China. A cross-sectional study was performed that included 44,900 participants from 17 districts in southwest China from September 2018 to January 2019. The study comprised 23,805 individuals in the final analysis. Logistic regression and multivariable linear regression were applied to estimate the dietary pattern-specific associations between AM and hypertension or systolic/diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP). Restricted cubic spline regression was utilized to calculate the shape of the relationship between AM and the odds ratio of hypertension. After adjusting for multiple variables, women who had a history of AM > 14 years were associated with an increased risk of hypertension (OR 1.12, 95%CI 1.04–1.19) and elevated levels of SBP (β 0.90, 95%CI 0.41–1.38) compared with those with AM ≤ 14 years among the total population, and this association was still statistically significant when we further adjusted for body mass index (BMI). In participants with AM > 14 years, the odds ratio values of hypertension increased with increasing menarche age. After stratification by age at recruitment, the positive association between menarche age and hypertension only remained in the middle-aged group, and this association was not found in the young and old groups. After stratification by the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) score among the total population, the positive association between AM and hypertension was presented only in the low DASH score group; however, this association was not found in the high DASH score group. Women who have a history of AM > 14 years should pay close attention to blood pressure levels and incorporate the DASH diet more in order to achieve the early prevention of hypertension, especially middle-aged women.
Effect of Protoneutron Star Magnetized Envelops in Neutrino Energy Spectra
Authors: Kondratyev Vladimir N. , Lobanovskaya Tamara D. , Torekhan Dimash B.
Published: April 2022

The neutrino dynamics in hot and dense magnetized matter, which corresponds with protoneutron star envelopes in the core collapse supernova explosions, is considered. The kinetic equation for a neutrino phase space distribution function is obtained, taking into account inelastic scattering by nuclear particles. The transfer component in a momentum space using transport properties is studied. The energy transfer coefficient is shown to change from positive to negative values when the neutrino energy exceeds four times the matter temperature. In the vicinity of a neutrino sphere, such effects are illustrated to lead to the energy strengthening in the neutrino spectra. As this paper demonstrates, such a property is favorable for the possibility of observing supernova neutrino fluxes using Large Volume Neutrino Telescopes.