bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cathodic Protection System of the Spiral Classifier at the KGHM Polska Miedź S.A. Ore Concentration Plant—Case Study of Commissioning and Control of Operating Parameters
Authors: Czekajlo Marcin , Zakowski Krzysztof
Published: September 2022

The project involved designing, constructing and commissioning a cathodic protection system for a selected spiral classifier operating at the KGHM Polska Miedź S.A. Ore Concentration Plant (O/ZWR). The authors developed a concept and assumptions regarding the corrosion protection of a large industrial device using a cathodic protection system with an external power source. Pre-project studies included conducting a trial polarization of one of the 28 classifiers operating at O/ZWR. The obtained results enabled the determination of the protective current demand required and the selection of a target polarization device, ensuring the flow of current with an intensity that guarantees that the required corrosion protection level will be achieved. The ultimately installed cathodic protection system consisted of an external cathodic protection current source with maximum output parameters of 50V/20A, a power supply system and a polarization anode system. Elements for monitoring corrosion occurring during system operation were installed, which employed reference electrodes of zinc (Zn) and silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) to measure the potential of the structure under cathodic protection. Furthermore, resistive corrosion sensors were installed to measure the steel corrosion rate under polarization conditions, making it possible to assess the effectiveness of the protection. The system will also be equipped with a prototype system for remote monitoring of the operation of the protection system, enabling online observation and analysis of settings and temporary indicators influencing the ongoing corrosion processes.
Editorial for the Special Issue: “Studies of Seismic Reservoir Characterization”
Authors: Zhang Fengjiao , Ivandic Monika
Published: September 2022

Seismic reservoir characterization plays an essential role in the study of integrated reservoirs, with applications from prospect identification to detailed reservoir delineation [...]
Modelling the Energy Consumption of Driving Styles Based on Clustering of GPS Information
Authors: Breuß Michael , Sharifi Boroujerdi Ali , Mansouri Yarahmadi Ashkan
Published: September 2022

This paper presents a novel approach to distinguishing driving styles with respect to their energy efficiency. A distinct property of our method is that it relies exclusively on the global positioning system (GPS) logs of drivers. This setting is highly relevant in practice as these data can easily be acquired. Relying on positional data alone means that all features derived from them will be correlated, so we strive to find a single quantity that allows us to perform the driving style analysis. To this end we consider a robust variation of the so-called "jerk" of a movement. We give a detailed analysis that shows how the feature relates to a useful model of energy consumption when driving cars. We show that our feature of choice outperforms other more commonly used jerk-based formulations for automated processing. Furthermore, we discuss the handling of noisy, inconsistent, and incomplete data, as this is a notorious problem when dealing with real-world GPS logs. Our solving strategy relies on an agglomerative hierarchical clustering combined with an L-term heuristic to determine the relevant number of clusters. It can easily be implemented and delivers a quick performance, even on very large, real-world datasets. We analyse the clustering procedure, making use of established quality criteria. Experiments show that our approach is robust against noise and able to discern different driving styles.
tert-Butyl(2-oxo-2H-pyran-5-yl)carbamate as the First Chameleon Diene Bearing an Electron-Donating Substituent
Authors: Omar Yasser M. , Santucci Giulia , Afarinkia Kamyar
Published: September 2022

The 2(H)-pyran-2-one bearing electron-donating tert-butylcarbamate (BocNH-) group at the 5- position is a “chameleon” diene and undergoes efficient Diels–Alder cycloadditions with alkene dienophiles with both electron-rich and electron-deficient substituents. Cycloadditions afford the 5-substituted bicyclic lactone cycloadducts regardless of the electronic nature of the dienophile. However, cycloadditions with electronically matched electron-deficient dienophiles proceed faster than those with electronically mismatched electron-rich dienophiles.
Risk Assessment of Triflumezopyrim and Imidacloprid in Rice through an Evaluation of Residual Data
Authors: Zhang Yue , Wang Meiran , Silipunyo Thiphavanh , Huang Haizhu , Yin Qingchun , Han Bingjun , Wang Mingyue
Published: September 2022

Triflumezopyrim, a novel mesoionic insecticide used to control planthoppers, is a potential substitute for imidacloprid. In this study, triflumezopyrim and imidacloprid residues in rice were determined using a quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe procedure combined with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The limit of quantification of both triflumezopyrim and imidacloprid was 0.01 mg kg−1, and the average recovery values were 94–104% and 91–106%, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) of 1.1–1.4% and 2.1–3.4% (n = 5), respectively. The consumer protection level was assessed by calculating the theoretical maximum daily intake using the reported maximum residue limits of triflumezopyrim and imidacloprid. The established method was successfully applied to 200 commercial rice samples collected from four provinces in China, and their potential public health risks were assessed using triflumezopyrim and imidacloprid residues. The risk associated with triflumezopyrim and imidacloprid dietary intake was assessed by calculating the national estimated short-term intake and the acute reference dose percentage (%ARfD). The results show that the theoretical maximum daily intake (NEDI) values of triflumezopyrim and imidacloprid in different age and gender groups were 0.219–0.543 and 0.377–0.935 μg kg−1 d−1 bw, and the risk quotient (RQ) values were 0.188–0.467% and 0.365–0.906%, respectively. The acute reference dose (%ARfD) of triflumezopyrim and imidaclopridin ranged from 0.615 to 0.998% and from 0.481 to 0.780%, respectively.
Ionic Liquids as Organocatalysts for Nucleophilic Fluorination: Concepts and Perspectives
Authors: Oh Young-Ho , Kim Dong Wook , Lee Sungyul
Published: September 2022

Besides their extremely useful properties as solvent, ionic liquids (ILs) are now considered to be highly instructive tools for enhancing the rates of chemical reactions. The ionic nature of the IL anion and cation seems to be the origin of this fascinating function of ILs as organocatalyst/promoter through their strong Coulombic forces on other ionic species in the reaction and also through the formation of hydrogen bonds with various functional groups in substrates. It is now possible to tailor-make ILs for specific purposes as solvent/promoters in a variety of situations by carefully monitoring these interactions. Despite the enormous potentiality, it seems that the application of ILs as organocatalysts/promoters for chemical reactions have not been fully achieved so far. Herein, we review recent developments of ILs for promoting the nucleophilic reactions, focusing on fluorination. Various aspects of the processes, such as organocatalytic capability, reaction mechanisms and salt effects, are discussed.
On the Coexistence of the Carbene⋯H-D Hydrogen Bond and Other Accompanying Interactions in Forty Dimers of N-Heterocyclic-Carbenes (I, IMe2, IiPr2, ItBu2, IMes2, IDipp2, IAd2; I = imidazol-2-ylidene) and Some Fundamental Proton Donors (HF, HCN, H2O, MeOH, NH3)
Authors: Jabłoński Mirosław
Published: September 2022

The subject of research is forty dimers formed by imidazol-2-ylidene (I) or its derivative (IR2) obtained by replacing the hydrogen atoms in both N-H bonds with larger important and popular substituents of increasing complexity (methyl = Me, iso-propyl = iPr, tert-butyl = tBu, phenyl = Ph, mesityl = Mes, 2,6-diisopropylphenyl = Dipp, 1-adamantyl = Ad) and fundamental proton donor (HD) molecules (HF, HCN, H2O, MeOH, NH3). While the main goal is to characterize the generally dominant C⋯H-D hydrogen bond engaging a carbene carbon atom, an equally important issue is the often omitted analysis of the role of accompanying secondary interactions. Despite the often completely different binding possibilities of the considered carbenes, and especially HD molecules, several general trends are found. Namely, for a given carbene, the dissociation energy values of the IR2⋯HD dimers increase in the following order: NH3< H2O < HCN ≤ MeOH ≪ HF. Importantly, it is found that, for a given HD molecule, IDipp2 forms the strongest dimers. This is attributed to the multiplicity of various interactions accompanying the dominant C⋯H-D hydrogen bond. It is shown that substitution of hydrogen atoms in both N-H bonds of the imidazol-2-ylidene molecule by the investigated groups leads to stronger dimers with HF, HCN, H2O or MeOH. The presented results should contribute to increasing the knowledge about the carbene chemistry and the role of intermolecular interactions, including secondary ones.
Wistin Exerts an Anti-Inflammatory Effect via Nuclear Factor-κB and p38 Signaling Pathways in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW264.7 Cells
Authors: An Jangeun , Ryu Gyoungah , Shin Seong-Ah , Kim Huiji , Ahn Mi-Jeong , Lee Jun Hyuck , Lee Chang Sup
Published: September 2022

Inflammation is an immune response to cellular damage caused by various stimuli (internal or external) and is essential to human health. However, excessive inflammatory responses may be detrimental to the host. Considering that the existing drugs for the treatment of inflammatory diseases have various side effects, such as allergic reactions, stomach ulcers, and cardiovascular problems, there is a need for research on new anti-inflammatory agents with low toxicity and fewer side effects. As 4′,6-dimethoxyisoflavone-7-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (wistin) is a phytochemical that belongs to an isoflavonoid family, we investigated whether wistin could potentially serve as a novel anti-inflammatory agent. In this study, we found that wistin significantly reduced the production of nitric oxide and intracellular reactive oxygen species in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, wistin reduced the mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory enzymes (inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX-2)) and cytokines (interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6) and significantly reduced the protein expression of pro-inflammatory enzymes (iNOS and COX-2). Furthermore, wistin reduced the activation of the nuclear factor-κB and p38 signaling pathways. Together, these results suggest that wistin is a prospective candidate for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Ultrasound Triggering of Liposomal Nanodrugs for Cancer Therapy: A Review
Authors: Bahutair Wafa N. , Abuwatfa Waad H. , Husseini Ghaleb A.
Published: September 2022

Efficient conventional chemotherapy is limited by its nonspecific nature, which causes severe systemic toxicity that can lead to patient discomfort and low therapeutic efficacy. The emergence of smart drug delivery systems (SDDSs) utilizing nanoparticles as drug nanocarriers has shown great potential in enhancing the targetability of anticancer agents and limiting their side effects. Liposomes are among the most investigated nanoplatforms due to their promising capabilities of encapsulating hydrophilic, lipophilic, and amphiphilic drugs, biocompatibility, physicochemical and biophysical properties. Liposomal nanodrug systems have demonstrated the ability to alter drugs’ biodistribution by sufficiently delivering the entrapped chemotherapeutics at the targeted diseased sites, sparing normal cells from undesired cytotoxic effects. Combining liposomal treatments with ultrasound, as an external drug release triggering modality, has been proven effective in spatially and temporally controlling and stimulating drug release. Therefore, this paper reviews recent literature pertaining to the therapeutic synergy of triggering nanodrugs from liposomes using ultrasound. It also highlights the effects of multiple physical and chemical factors on liposomes’ sonosensetivity, several ultrasound-induced drug release mechanisms, and the efficacy of ultrasound-responsive liposomal systems in cancer therapy. Overall, liposomal nanodrug systems triggered by ultrasound are promising cancer therapy platforms that can potentially alleviate the detriments of conventional cancer treatments.
Multiscale Kinetic Monte Carlo Simulation of Self-Organized Growth of GaN/AlN Quantum Dots
Authors: Budagosky Jorge A. , García-Cristóbal Alberto
Published: September 2022

A three-dimensional kinetic Monte Carlo methodology is developed to study the strained epitaxial growth of wurtzite GaN/AlN quantum dots. It describes the kinetics of effective GaN adatoms on an hexagonal lattice. The elastic strain energy is evaluated by a purposely devised procedure: first, we take advantage of the fact that the deformation in a lattice-mismatched heterostructure is equivalent to that obtained by assuming that one of the regions of the system is subjected to a properly chosen uniform stress (Eshelby inclusion concept), and then the strain is obtained by applying the Green’s function method. The standard Monte Carlo method has been modified to implement a multiscale algorithm that allows the isolated adatoms to perform long diffusion jumps. With these state-of-the art modifications, it is possible to perform efficiently simulations over large areas and long elapsed times. We have taylored the model to the conditions of molecular beam epitaxy under N-rich conditions. The corresponding simulations reproduce the different stages of the Stranski–Krastanov transition, showing quantitative agreement with the experimental findings concerning the critical deposition, and island size and density. The influence of growth parameters, such as the relative fluxes of Ga and N and the substrate temperature, is also studied and found to be consistent with the experimental observations. In addition, the growth of stacked layers of quantum dots is also simulated and the conditions for their vertical alignment and homogenization are illustrated. In summary, the developed methodology allows one to reproduce the main features of the self-organized quantum dot growth and to understand the microscopic mechanisms at play.
Preparation of Solid Lipid Nanoparticle-Ferrous Sulfate by Double Emulsion Method Based on Fat Rich in Monolaurin and Stearic Acid
Authors: Subroto Edy , Andoyo Robi , Indiarto Rossi , Wulandari Endah , Wadhiah Elgi Fadhilah Nadhirah
Published: September 2022

Ferrous sulfate is one type of iron that is commonly used in iron supplementation and fortification in food products, but it has low stability and an unfavorable flavor, causing its use to be limited. Encapsulation in a solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) system is one technology that offers stable active compound protection and a good delivery system; however, a solid lipid matrix should be selected which has good health effects, such as glycerol monolaurate or monolaurin. The purpose of this study was to obtain SLN-ferrous sulfate based on stearic acid and fat rich in monolaurin. SLN-Ferrous sulfate was synthesized at various concentrations of monolaurin-rich fat (20%; 30%; 40% w/w lipid) and various concentrations of ferrous sulfate (5%; 10%; 15% w/w lipid). The results showed that the use of monolaurin-rich fat 40% w/w lipid and 15% w/w ferrous sulfate produced the best characteristics with high entrapment efficiency and loading capacity of 0.06%. The Z-average value of SLN was 292.4 nm with a polydispersity index (PI) of 1.03. SLN-ferrous sulfate showed a spherical morphology, where the Fe trapped in the SLN was evenly dispersed in the lipid matrix to form a nanosphere system. Preparation of SLN-ferrous sulfate by double emulsion method based on stearic acid and fat rich in monolaurin effectively encapsulated ferrous sulfate with high entrapment efficiency and good physicochemical properties.
Effect of Magnetic Heating on Stability of Magnetic Colloids
Authors: Drzewiński Andrzej , Marć Maciej , Wolak Wiktor W. , Dudek Mirosław R.
Published: September 2022

Stable aqueous suspension of magnetic nanoparticles is essential for effective magnetic hyperthermia and other applications of magnetic heating in an alternating magnetic field. However, the alternating magnetic field causes strong agglomeration of magnetic nanoparticles, and this can lead to undesirable phenomena that deteriorate the bulk magnetic properties of the material. It has been shown how this magnetic field influences the distribution of magnetic agglomerates in the suspension. When investigating the influence of the sonication treatment on magnetic colloids, it turned out that the hydrodynamic diameter as a function of sonication time appeared to have a power-law character. The effect of magnetic colloid ageing on magnetic heating was discussed as well. It was shown how properly applied ultrasonic treatment could significantly improve the stability of the colloid of magnetic nanoparticles, ultimately leading to an increase in heating efficiency. The optimal sonication time for the preparation of the magnetic suspension turned out to be time-limited, and increasing it did not improve the stability of the colloid. The obtained results are important for the development of new materials where magnetic colloids are used and in biomedical applications.
Efficient Nanocrystal Photovoltaics with PTAA as Hole Transport Layer
Authors: Xu Ao , Huang Qichuan , Luo Kaiying , Qin Donghuan , Xu Wei , Wang Dan , Hou Lintao
Published: September 2022

The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of solution-processed CdTe nanocrystals (NCs) solar cells has been significantly promoted in recent years due to the optimization of device design by advanced interface engineering techniques. However, further development of CdTe NC solar cells is still limited by the low open-circuit voltage (Voc) (mostly in range of 0.5–0.7 V), which is mainly attributed to the charge recombination at the CdTe/electrode interface. Herein, we demonstrate a high-efficiency CdTe NCs solar cell by using organic polymer poly[bis(4–phenyl)(2,4,6–trimethylphenyl)amine] (PTAA) as the hole transport layer (HTL) to decrease the interface recombination and enhance the Voc. The solar cell with the architecture of ITO/ZnO/CdS/CdSe/CdTe/PTAA/Au was fabricated via a layer-by-layer solution process. Experimental results show that PTAA offers better back contact for reducing interface resistance than the device without HTL. It is found that a dipole layer is produced between the CdTe NC thin film and the back contact electrode; thus the built–in electric field (Vbi) is reinforced, allowing more efficient carrier separation. By introducing the PTAA HTL in the device, the open–circuit voltage, short-circuit current density and the fill factor are simultaneously improved, leading to a high PCE of 6.95%, which is increased by 30% compared to that of the control device without HTL (5.3%). This work suggests that the widely used PTAA is preferred as the excellent HTL for achieving highly efficient CdTe NC solar cells.
Highly Breathable and Abrasion-Resistant Membranes with Micro-/Nano-Channels for Eco-Friendly Moisture-Wicking Medical Textiles
Authors: Zhang Yue , Li Xing , Wang Hong-Yang , Wang Bo-Xiang , Li Jia , Cheng De-Hong , Lu Yan-Hua
Published: September 2022

One-way water transport is a predominant feature of comfortable textiles used in daily life. However, shortcomings related to the textiles include their poor breathability and durability. In this study, low-cost and eco-friendly PLA/low-melt (polylactic acid) LMPLA-thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) membranes were fabricated through a needle punch/hot press and electrospinning method. The micro-/nano-channels, used for the first time, endowed the composite membranes with robust, breathable, moisture-permeable, and abrasion-resistant performance. By varying the nano- layer thickness, the resulting 16–40 μm membranes exhibited excellent one-way water transport, robust breathability and moisture permeability, and good abrasion resistance. Nano-layer thickness was found to be a critical performance factor, balancing comfort and protection. These results may be useful for developing low-cost, eco-friendly, and versatile protective products for medical application.
Enhancing the Melting Process of Shell-and-Tube PCM Thermal Energy Storage Unit Using Modified Tube Design
Authors: Abderrahmane Aissa , Qasem Naef A. A. , Mourad Abed , Al-Khaleel Mohammad , Said Zafar , Guedri Kamel , Younis Obai , Marzouki Riadh
Published: September 2022

Recently, phase change materials (PCMs) have gained great attention from engineers and researchers due to their exceptional properties for thermal energy storing, which would effectively aid in reducing carbon footprint and support the global transition of using renewable energy. The current research attempts to enhance the thermal performance of a shell-and-tube heat exchanger by means of using PCM and a modified tube design. The enthalpy–porosity method is employed for modelling the phase change. Paraffin wax is treated as PCM and poured within the annulus; the annulus comprises a circular shell and a fined wavy (trefoil-shaped) tube. In addition, copper nanoparticles are incorporated with the base PCM to enhance the thermal conductivity and melting rate. Effects of many factors, including nanoparticle concentration, the orientation of the interior wavy tube, and the fin length, were examined. Results obtained from the current model imply that Cu nanoparticles added to PCM materials improve thermal and melting properties while reducing entropy formation. The highest results (27% decrease in melting time) are obtained when a concentration of nanoparticles of 8% is used. Additionally, the fins’ location is critical because fins with 45° inclination could achieve a 50% expedition in the melting process.
Enhancing the Efficiency of Perovskite Solar Cells through Interface Engineering with MoS2 Quantum Dots
Authors: Luo Zhao , Guo Tan , Wang Chen , Zou Jifan , Wang Jianxun , Dong Wei , Li Jing , Zhang Wei , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zheng Weitao
Published: September 2022

The interface of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) determines their power conversion efficiency (PCE). Here, the buried bottom surface of a perovskite film is efficiently passivated by using MoS2 quantum dots. The perovskite films prepared on top of MoS2-assisted substrates show enhanced crystallinity, as evidenced by improved photoluminescence and a prolonged emission lifetime. MoS2 quantum dots with a large bandgap of 2.68 eV not only facilitate hole collection but also prevent the photogenerated electrons from flowing to the hole transport layer. Overall promotion leads to decreased trap density and an enhanced built-in electric field, thus increasing the device PCE from 17.87% to 19.95%.
The 3.4 GHz BAW RF Filter Based on Single Crystal AlN Resonator for 5G Application
Authors: Ding Rui , Xuan Weipeng , Dong Shurong , Zhang Biao , Gao Feng , Liu Gang , Zhang Zichao , Jin Hao , Luo Jikui
Published: September 2022

To meet the stringent requirements of 5G communication, we proposed a high-performance bulk acoustic wave (BAW) filter based on single crystal AlN piezoelectric films on a SiC substrate. The fabrication of the BAW filter is compatible with the GaN high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) process, enabling the implementation of the integration of the BAW device and high-performance monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC). The single crystal AlN piezoelectric film with 650-nm thickness was epitaxially grown on the SiC substrate by Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition (MOCVD). After wafer bonding and substrate removal, the single crystal AlN film with electrode layers was transferred to another SiC wafer to form an air gap type BAW. Testing results showed that the fabricated resonators have a maximum Q-factor up to 837 at 3.3 GHz resonant frequency and electromechanical coupling coefficient up to 7.2%. Ladder-type filters were developed to verify the capabilities of the BAW and process, which has a center frequency of 3.38 GHz with 160 MHz 3 dB bandwidth. The filter achieved a minimum 1.5 dB insertion loss and more than 31 dB out-of-band rejection. The high performance of the filters is attributed to the high crystallinity and low defects of epitaxial single crystal AlN films.
Sb Nanoparticles Embedded in the N-Doped Carbon Fibers as Binder-Free Anode for Flexible Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Xin , Jia Nanjun , Li Jianwei , Liu Pengbo , Zhao Xinsheng , Lin Yuxiao , Sun Changqing , Qin Wei
Published: September 2022

Antimony (Sb) is considered a promising anode for Li-ion batteries (LIBs) because of its high theoretical specific capacity and safe Li-ion insertion potential; however, the LIBs suffer from dramatic volume variation. The volume expansion results in unstable electrode/electrolyte interphase and active material exfoliation during lithiation and delithiation processes. Designing flexible free-standing electrodes can effectively inhibit the exfoliation of the electrode materials from the current collector. However, the generally adopted methods for preparing flexible free-standing electrodes are complex and high cost. To address these issues, we report the synthesis of a unique Sb nanoparticle@N-doped porous carbon fiber structure as a free-standing electrode via an electrospinning method and surface passivation. Such a hierarchical structure possesses a robust framework with rich voids and a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film, which can well accommodate the mechanical strain and avoid electrode cracks and pulverization during lithiation/delithiation processes. When evaluated as an anode for LIBs, the as-prepared nanoarchitectures exhibited a high initial reversible capacity (675 mAh g−1) and good cyclability (480 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles at a current density of 400 mA g−1), along with a superior rate capability (420 mA h g−1 at 1 A g−1). This work could offer a simple, effective, and efficient approach to improve flexible and free-standing alloy-based anode materials for high performance Li-ion batteries.
Prevalence of Food Allergy in France up to 5.5 Years of Age: Results from the ELFE Cohort
Authors: Tamazouzt Sarah , Adel-Patient Karine , Deschildre Antoine , Roduit Caroline , Charles Marie Aline , de Lauzon-Guillain Blandine , Divaret-Chauveau Amandine
Published: September 2022

Background: In France, updated data on food allergies (FAs) are lacking, despite the need for efficient FA management and prevention. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of FAs in children in France, describe the most common allergens and determine the prevalence of atopic diseases in children with FAs. Methods: The ELFE study comprises a French nationwide birth cohort, including 18,329 children born in 2011. FAs were assessed by parental reports of food avoidance based on medical advice related to FAs, provided at 2 months and 2, 3.5 and 5.5 years of age. Data regarding FAs were available for 16,400 children. Data were weighted to account for selection and attrition bias. Results: From birth to 5.5 years of age, FAs were reported for 5.94% (95% CI: 5.54–6.34) children. Milk was the most common allergen, followed by egg, peanut, exotic fruits, tree nuts, gluten and fish. Among children with FAs, 20.5% had an allergy to at least two different groups of allergens; 71% reported eczema at least once before 5.5 years of age; 24.4% reported incidence of asthma; and 42.3% reported incidence of allergic rhinitis or conjunctivitis. Conclusion: In France, the prevalence of FAs in children up to 5.5 years of age is approximately 6%. It was demonstrated that 1 in 5 children with allergies had multiple FAs.
Inverse Association between Serum Selenium Level and Severity of Liver Fibrosis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Shih Chi-Wei , Chen Ying-Jen , Chen Wei-Liang
Published: September 2022

Selenium has been well recognized for its important role in human health. Prior studies showed that low serum selenium was associated with various diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, infertility, and cognitive decline. Recent studies demonstrated an association between selenium deficiency and liver cirrhosis. In our study, we aimed to explore the association between serum selenium levels and severity of liver fibrosis. In total, 5641 participants at an age of 12 and above, from the 2017–2018 United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, were enrolled. The severity of liver fibrosis was determined by liver ultrasound transient elastography. There was a significant linear decrease in liver stiffness measurement (LSM) values in male groups with increased serum selenium levels. The beta coefficient (β) = −1.045 in male groups. A significantly negative association was also observed in the group of age ≥ 60. In addition, those in the highest quartile of serum selenium had lower LSM values (β = −0.416). This is the first study using LSM to demonstrate the correlation between selenium deficiency and severity of liver cirrhosis. Our findings suggest that a high plasma selenium concentration is negatively correlated with the severity of liver cirrhosis and there are gender and age differences.
Processed Food as a Risk Factor for the Development and Perpetuation of Crohn’s Disease—The ENIGMA Study
Authors: Trakman Gina L. , Lin Winnie Y. Y. , Hamilton Amy L. , Wilson-O’Brien Amy L. , Stanley Annalise , Ching Jessica Y. , Yu Jun , Mak Joyce W. Y. , Sun Yang , Niu Junkun , Miao Yinglei , Lin Xiaoqing , Feng Rui , Chen Minhu , Shivappa Nitin , Hebert James R. , Morrison Mark , Ng Siew C. , Kamm Michael A
Published: September 2022

(1) Background: Developing countries have experienced a rapid recent rise in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) incidence and emerging evidence suggests processed foods and food additives may predispose one to the development and perpetuation of Crohn’s disease (CD). The aim of this study was to evaluate processed food and food additive intake in CD patients and controls, in Australia (high CD incidence), Hong Kong (intermediate incidence) and mainland China (emerging incidence). (2) Methods: In 274 CD patients (CD), 82 first-degree relatives (FDR), 83 household members (HM) and 92 healthy unrelated controls (HC) from Australia (n = 180), Hong Kong (HK) (n = 160) and mainland China (n = 191) we estimated early life (0–18 years), recent (12 months), and current processed and food additive intake, using validated questionnaires and a 3-day-food diary. (3) Results: Early life processed food intake: Combining all regions, CD were more likely to have consumed soft drinks and fast foods than HM, more likely to have consumed processed fruit and snacks than their FDR, and more likely to have consumed a range of processed foods than HC. HK and China CD patients were more likely to have consumed a range of processed foods than HC. Recent food-additive intake (12-months): Combining all regions, CD patients had significantly higher intakes of aspartame and sucralose, and polysorbate-80, than HC, and more total emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners, and titanium dioxide than FDR and HC. HK and China CD patients had a higher intake of almost all food additives than all controls. Current additive intake (3-days): Australian and HK CD patients had higher total food-additive intake than FDR, and HK CD patients had a higher intake of total food-additives and emulsifiers than HM. (4) Conclusions: CD patients have been exposed to more processed food and food additives than control groups, which may predispose them to CD development and ongoing inflammation.
Prognostic Nutritional Index as a Predictor of Diabetic Nephropathy Progression
Authors: Zhang Junlin , Xiao Xiang , Wu Yucheng , Yang Jia , Zou Yutong , Zhao Yuancheng , Yang Qing , Liu Fang
Published: September 2022

Malnutrition and immunologic derangement were not uncommon in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the long-term effects of prognostic nutritional index (PNI), an immunonutrition indictor, on renal outcomes in patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are unknown. In this retrospective cohort study, 475 patients with T2DM and biopsy-confirmed DN from West China Hospital between January 2010 and September 2019 were evaluated. PNI was evaluated as serum albumin (g/L) + 5 × lymphocyte count (109/L). The study endpoint was defined as progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The Cox regression analysis was performed to investigate the risk factors of renal failure in DN patients. A total of 321 eligible individuals were finally included in this study. The patients with higher PNI had a higher eGFR and lower proteinuria at baseline. Correlation analysis indicated PNI was positively related eGFR (r = 0.325, p < 0.001), and negatively correlated with proteinuria (r = −0.68, p < 0.001), glomerular lesion (r = −0.412, p < 0.001) and interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (r = −0.282, p < 0.001). During a median follow-up of 30 months (16–50 months), the outcome event occurred in 164(51.09%) of all the patients. After multivariable adjustment, each SD (per-SD) increment of PNI at baseline was associated with a lower incidence of ESRD (hazard ratio, 0.705, 95% CI, 0.523–0.952, p = 0.023), while the hypoalbuminemia and anemia were not. For the prediction of ESRD, the area under curves (AUC) evaluated with time-dependent receiver operating characteristics were 0.79 at 1 year, 0.78 at 2 years, and 0.74 at 3 years, respectively, and the addition of PNI could significantly improve the predictive ability of the model incorporating traditional risk factors. In summary, PNI correlated with eGFR and glomerular injury and was an independent predictor for DN progression in patients with T2DM. Thus, it may facilitate the risk stratification of DN patients and contribute to targeted management.
Association of Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake with Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Middle-Aged to Elderly Japanese Men and Women: The Toon Health Study
Authors: Maruyama Koutatsu , Khairunnisa Salsabila , Saito Isao , Tanigawa Takeshi , Tomooka Kiyohide , Minato-Inokawa Satomi , Sano Madoka , Takakado Misaki , Kawamura Ryoichi , Takata Yasunori , Osawa Haruhiko
Published: September 2022

Fish and omega-3 fatty acid consumption is known to be beneficial for cardiometabolic health. However, the related evidence for individuals with a relatively higher intake of fish or omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids, e.g., Japanese individuals, is scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the association of fish and omega-3 fatty acid intakes with the carotid intima-media thickness (C-IMT) in the Japanese population. In total, 1803 Japanese men and women aged 30–84 years without a history of myocardial infarction or angina pectoris were included in the study. The fish and omega-3 fatty acid intakes were estimated using food frequency questionnaires. The C-IMT was measured using ultrasound imaging, and the participants were classified into three groups: normal, moderate (1.1 to 1.4 mm of maximum C-IMT), and severely increased C-IMT (≥1.5 mm). Multinomial logistic regression models were used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of the presence of moderately and severely increased C-IMT. The omega-3 fatty acid intake was shown to be associated with lower odds of severely increased C-IMT. The multivariable-adjusted OR (95%CI) was 0.55 (0.31–0.97; p for trend = 0.04). We also found a borderline significant negative association between fish intake and the presence of severely increased C-IMT. In conclusion, omega-3 fatty acid intake might protect against the development of atherosclerosis in the Japanese population.
Neonatal Morbidities and Feeding Tolerance Outcomes in Very Preterm Infants, before and after Introduction of Probiotic Supplementation
Authors: Mitha Ayoub , Kruth Sofia Söderquist , Bjurman Sara , Rakow Alexander , Johansson Stefan
Published: September 2022

While probiotics are reported to reduce the risks of neonatal morbidities, less is known about probiotics and feeding tolerance. With this retrospective cohort study, we investigate whether introduction of probiotic supplementation as the standard of care was associated with fewer neonatal morbidities and improved feeding tolerance in very preterm infants. Using the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register, 345 live-born very preterm infants (28–31 weeks’ gestation), from January 2019–August 2021, in NICUs in Stockholm, Sweden, either received probiotic supplementation (Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium lactis, Streptococcusthermophilus) (139) or no supplementation (206); they were compared regarding a primary composite outcome of death, sepsis, and/or necrotising enterocolitis and secondary outcomes: time to full enteral feeding and antibiotics use. Probiotics seemed associated with a reduced risk of the composite outcome (4.3% versus 9.2%, p = 0.08). In the subgroup of 320 infants without the primary outcome, probiotics were associated with shorter time to full enteral feeding (6.6 days versus 7.2 days) and less use of antibiotics (5.2 days versus 6.1 days). Our findings suggest that probiotics improve feeding tolerance and further support that very preterm infants may benefit from probiotic supplementation.
Changes in Body Composition and Physical Performance in Children with Excessive Body Weight Participating in an Integrated Weight-Loss Programme
Authors: Dettlaff-Dunowska Magdalena , Brzeziński Michał , Zagierska Agnieszka , Borkowska Anna , Zagierski Maciej , Szlagatys-Sidorkiewicz Agnieszka
Published: September 2022

The problem of overweight and obesity is a growing phenomenon in the entire population. Obesity is associated with many different metabolic disorders and is directly associated with an increased risk of death. The aim of the study was to assess the changes in body composition and physical fitness in children participating in an integrated weight-loss programme and to analyse the possible relationship between changes in body composition and improvements in fitness. Participants of the study were recruited from the “6–10–14 for Health”-multidisciplinary intervention programme for children aged 6 to 15 years old. A total of 170 patients qualified for the study, and 152 patients were enrolled. Statistically significant changes in body composition were found after the end of the intervention program, as measured by both BIA (bioimpedance) and DXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry). The differences in KPRT (Kasch Pulse Recovery Test) results at baseline and after intervention are positively correlated with the difference in fat mass between baseline and the after-intervention measure. Improving physical fitness is positively correlated with a decrease in FM (fat mass) and an increase in FFM (fat-free mass) measured in both absolute values and %. Both BIA and DXA methods proved to be equally useful for measuring body composition.
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Proteins in Breast Milk during Different Lactation Periods
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Zhang Xiaoxu , Mi Lijuan , Li Chuangang , Zhang Yiran , Bi Ran , Pang Jinzhu , Li Yixuan
Published: September 2022

Breast milk is an unparalleled food for infants, as it can meet almost all of their nutritional needs. Breast milk in the first month is an important source of acquired immunity. However, breast milk protein may vary with the stage of lactation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to use a data-independent acquisition approach to determine the differences in the proteins of breast milk during different lactation periods. The study samples were colostrum (3–6 days), transitional milk (7–14 days), and mature milk (15–29 days). The results identified a total of 2085 different proteins, and colostrum contained the most characteristic proteins. Protein expression was affected by the lactation stage. The proteins expressed in breast milk changed greatly between day 3 and day 14 and gradually stabilized after 14 days. The expression levels of lactoferrin, immunoglobulin, and clusterin were the highest in colostrum. CTP synthase 1, C-type lectin domain family 19 member A, secretoglobin family 3A member 2, trefoil factor 3 (TFF3), and tenascin were also the highest in colostrum. This study provides further insights into the protein composition of breast milk and the necessary support for the design and production of infant formula.
Nutritional Status, Body Composition, and Inflammation Profile in Older Patients with Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 4–5: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Ruperto Mar , Barril Guillermina
Published: September 2022

Nutritional status is a predictor of adverse outcomes and mortality in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (ACKD). This study aimed to explore and evaluate risk factors related to nutritional status, body composition, and inflammatory profile in patients with ACKD compared with age- and sex-matched controls in a Mediterranean cohort of the Spanish population. Out of 200 volunteers recruited, 150 participants (64%) were included, and a case-control study was conducted on 75 ACKD patients (stages 4–5), matched individually with controls at a ratio of 1:1 for both age and sex. At enrolment, demographic, clinical, anthropometric, and laboratory parameters were measured. Bioimpedance analysis (BIA) was used to assess both body composition and hydration status. ACKD patients had lower body cell mass (BCM%), muscle mass (MM%) phase angle (PA), s-albumin, and higher C-reactive protein (s-CRP) than controls (at least, p < 0.05). PA correlated positively with BCM% (cases: r = 0.84; controls: r = 0.53, p < 0.001), MM% (cases: r = 0.65; controls: r = 0.31, p < 0.001), and inversely with s-CRP (cases: r = −0.30, p < 0.001; controls: r = −0.31, p = 0.40). By univariate and multivariate conditional regression analysis, total body water (OR: 1.186), extracellular mass (OR: 1.346), s-CRP (OR: 2.050), MM% (OR: 0.847), PA (OR: 0.058), and s-albumin (OR: 0.475) were significantly associated among cases to controls. Nutritional parameters and BIA-derived measures appear as prognostic entities in patients with stage 4–5 ACKD compared to matched controls in this Mediterranean cohort.
The Effects of Swallowing Disorders and Oral Malformations on Nutritional Status in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Mouilly Mustapha , El Midaoui Adil , El Hessni Aboubaker
Published: September 2022

Nutrition plays an important role both from a nutrition and a socio-psychological point of view; this part seems to be even more crucial in cerebral palsy where undernutrition is responsible for an increase in morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of swallowing disorders and oral malformations on the nutritional status of children with cerebral palsy. We evaluated 65 patients aged 2 to 17 years using a cross-sectional, descriptive and observational approach. All patients had a definite diagnosis of cerebral palsy. The measurement of anthropometric variables (weight, height, Body Mass Index (BMI) and circumferences) was performed according to recognized techniques and measurements. The Z-score was also calculated using the World Health Organization (WHO) references. The 5-level Gross Motor Function Classification System was used, providing a standardized classification of motor disability patterns for children with cerebral palsy. The population had a median age of 9.25 (4.50–16.00) and was about 53% female. Furthermore, 75% of the patients had a height inferior to 158 cm. The results of our study show that 42 (64.6%) had false routes, 17 (26.2%) had oral-facial malformations and 51 (78.5%) did not have lip prehensions during meals. The results also show that growth retardation is closely related to gross motor function with p = 0.01, as well as all nutritional indices (Z-score weight for age, Z-score height for age and Z-score BMI for age) are affected by swallowing disorders and oral malformations, with statistically significant values < 0.05. In conclusion, a preventive and curative management specific to this population of children with cerebral palsy must be implemented with an interdisciplinary concertation.
Hawk Tea Flavonoids as Natural Hepatoprotective Agents Alleviate Acute Liver Damage by Reshaping the Intestinal Microbiota and Modulating the Nrf2 and NF-κB Signaling Pathways
Authors: Xu Ting , Hu Shanshan , Liu Yan , Sun Kang , Luo Liyong , Zeng Liang
Published: September 2022

Hawk tea (Litsea coreana Levl. var. lanuginosa) is a traditional herbal tea in southwestern China, and was found to possess hepatoprotective effects in our previous study. However, it is unclear whether hawk tea flavonoids (HTF) can alleviate alcoholic liver damage (ALD). Firstly, we extracted and identified the presence of 191 molecules categorized as HTFs, with reynoutrin, avicularin, guaijaverin, cynaroside, and kaempferol-7-O-glucoside being the most prevalent. After taking bioavailability into consideration and conducting comprehensive sorting, the contribution of guaijaverin was the highest (0.016 mg/mice). Then, by daily intragastric administration of HTF (100 mg/kg/day) to the ALD mice, we found that HTF alleviated liver lipid deposition (inhibition of TG, TC, LDL-C) by reducing liver oxidative-stress-mediated inflammation (up-regulation NRF2/HO-1 and down-regulation TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway) and reshaping the gut microbiota (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Bacillus increased). Overall, we found HTF could be a potential protective natural compound for treating ALD via the gut–liver axis and guaijaverin might be the key substance involved.
Clinical Status, Nutritional Behavior, and Lifestyle, and Determinants of Community Well-Being of Patients from the Perspective of Physicians: A Cross-Sectional Study of Young Older Adults, Nonagenarians, and Centenarians in Salerno and Province, Italy
Authors: Aliberti Silvana Mirella , Funk Richard H. W. , Schiavo Luigi , Giudice Aldo , Ciaglia Elena , Puca Annibale Alessandro , Gonnella Joseph , Capunzo Mario
Published: September 2022

Longevity is rightly considered one of the greatest achievements of modern society. Biomedical research has shown that aging is the major risk factor for many diseases, so to find the right answers to aging it is necessary to identify factors that can positively influence longevity. This study investigated the clinical status, nutritional behavior, lifestyle, and social and community determinants of the well-being of young older adults and nonagenarians/centenarians in Salerno and province through the judgment of their physicians. Data were collected through an online survey. Multivariate Poisson and logistic regression models were used to calculate significant predictors of the outcomes of interest. The interesting finding was that cardiovascular disease was a risk factor for young older adults, while it was a protective factor for nonagenarians/centenarians, meaning that as age increased, heart problems tended to decrease. Certain foods were found to be a significant protective factor for both young older adult and nonagenarian–centenarian patients. In addition, psychosomatic disorders were found to be determinant for the young older adults, while depression was a risk factor for the nonagenarians/centenarians because they were not always gratified by their long lives and often felt like a burden on the family. The protective significant variable among the determinants of community well-being for both young older adults and nonagenarians/centenarians was the retention of honorary achievement. Based on our results, we are able to support the hypothesis of a difference between the young older adults and the nonagenarians/centenarians in clinical status, nutritional behaviors, lifestyle, and determinants of community well-being. However, societies need more social and educational programs that are able to build “a new idea of old age” by improving and supporting the young older adults and the nonagenarians/centenarians, with the goal of intergenerational solidarity, well-being, and social inclusion, as well as preventive interventions on lifestyles and nutrition, which will allow us to provide a new key to understanding aging.