bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heritability of Oral Microbiota and Immune Responses to Oral Bacteria
Authors: Esberg Anders , Haworth Simon , Kuja-Halkola Ralf , Magnusson Patrik K.E. , Johansson Ingegerd
Published: July 2020

Maintaining a symbiotic oral microbiota is essential for oral and dental health, and host genetic factors may affect the composition or function of the oral microbiota through a range of possible mechanisms, including immune pathways. The study included 836 Swedish twins divided into separate groups of adolescents (n = 418) and unrelated adults (n = 418). Oral microbiota composition and functions of non-enzymatically lysed oral bacteria samples were evaluated using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and functional bioinformatics tools in the adolescents. Adaptive immune responses were assessed by testing for serum IgG antibodies against a panel of common oral bacteria in adults. In the adolescents, host genetic factors were associated with both the detection and abundance of microbial species, but with considerable variation between species. Host genetic factors were associated with predicted microbiota functions, including several functions related to bacterial sucrose, fructose, and carbohydrate metabolism. In adults, genetic factors were associated with serum antibodies against oral bacteria. In conclusion, host genetic factors affect the composition of the oral microbiota at a species level, and host-governed adaptive immune responses, and also affect the concerted functions of the oral microbiota as a whole. This may help explain why some people are genetically predisposed to the major dental diseases of caries and periodontitis.
Evaluation of Extraction Methods for Clinical Metagenomic Assay
Authors: Farraj Suha A. , El-Kafrawy Shreif A. , Kumosani Taha A. , Yousef Jehad M. , Azhar Esam I.
Published: July 2020

(1) Background: Clinical metagenomics is a promising approach that helps to identify etiological agents in cases of unknown infections. For the efficient detection of an unknown pathogen, the extraction method must be carefully selected for the maximum recovery of nucleic acid from different microorganisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate different extraction methods that have the ability to isolate nucleic acids from different types of pathogens with good quality and quantity for efficient use in clinical metagenomic identification. (2) Methods: A mock sample spiked with five different pathogens was used for the comparative evaluation of different commercial extraction kits. Extracted samples were subjected to library preparation and run on MiSeq. The selected extraction method based on the outcome of the comparative evaluation was used subsequently for the nucleic acid isolation of all infectious agents in clinical respiratory samples with multiple infections. (3) Results: The protocol using the PowerViral® Environmental RNA-DNA Isolation Kit with a 5-min bead beating step achieved the best results with a low starting volume. The analysis of the tested clinical specimens showed the ability to successfully identify different types of pathogens. (4) Conclusions: The optimized extraction protocol in this study is recommended for clinical metagenomics application in specimens with multiple infections from different taxa.
Characteristics of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae and Contact to Animals in Estonia
Authors: Telling Kaidi , Brauer Age , Laht Mailis , Kalmus Piret , Toompere Karolin , Kisand Veljo , Maimets Matti , Remm Maido , Tenson Tanel , Lutsar Irja
Published: July 2020

We have attempted to define the prevalence and risk factors of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-Enterobacteriaceae) carriage, and to characterize antimicrobial susceptibility, beta-lactamase genes, and major types of isolated strains in volunteers, with a specific focus on humans in contact with animals. Samples were collected from 207 volunteers (veterinarians, pig farmers, dog owners, etc.) and cultured on selective agar. Clonal relationships of the isolated ESBL-Enterobacteriaceae were determined by whole genome sequencing and multi-locus sequence typing. Beta-lactamases were detected using a homology search. Subjects filled in questionnaires analyzed by univariate and multiple logistic regression. Colonization with ESBL-Enterobacteriaceae was found in fecal samples of 14 individuals (6.8%; 95%CI: 3.75–11.09%). In multiple regression analysis, working as a pig farmer was a significant risk factor for ESBL-Enterobacteriaceae carriage (OR 4.8; 95%CI 1.2–19.1). The only species isolated was Escherichia coli that distributed into 11 sequence types. All ESBL-Enterobacteriaceae isolates were of CTX-M genotype, with the blaCTX-M-1 being the most prevalent and more common in pig farmers than in other groups. Despite the generally low prevalence of ESBL-Enterobacteriaceae in Estonia, the pig farmers may still pose a threat to transfer resistant microorganisms. The clinical relevance of predominant blaCTX-M-1 carrying E. coli is still unclear and needs further studies.
Impact of the Oxidant Type on the Efficiency of the Oxidation and Removal of Iron Compounds from Groundwater Containing Humic Substances
Authors: Krupińska Izabela
Published: July 2020

Due to the coexistence of organic matter and iron in groundwater, a certain part of the iron is present as iron-organic complexes in the form of colloids and/or dissolved complexes. The study was conducted to evaluate the impact of the type of oxidizing agent: O2, Cl2, H2O2, or KMnO4, on the efficiency of the oxidation and removal of iron compounds from three groundwaters with significantly different contents and types of organic substances among which humic and fulvic acids occurred. This study shows that after the aeration and the oxidation with Cl2 and H2O2, the increasing content of dissolved hydrophilic organic substances containing aromatic rings in the raw water reduced the effectiveness of Fe(II) oxidation and the effectiveness of iron removal during the sedimentation process. This regularity was not found only when KMnO4 was used as the oxidant. After oxidation with H2O2, the highest number of organo-iron complexes and an increased concentration of dissolved organic carbon were found. High concentrations of organo-ferrous connections were also found in aerated water samples. The highest KMnO4 efficiency of removing iron and organic substances and reducing the color intensity and turbidity was due to the catalytic and adsorptive properties of the precipitated MnO2, which also improved the sedimentation properties of the resultant oxidation products.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antibacterial Activity Constituents from the Stem of Cinnamomum validinerve
Authors: Yang Chi-Lung , Wu Ho-Cheng , Hwang Tsong-Long , Lin Chu-Hung , Cheng Yin-Hua , Wang Chia-Chi , Kan Hung-Lin , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung , Chen Ih-Sheng , Chang Hsun-Shuo , Lin Ying-Chi
Published: July 2020

One new dibenzocycloheptene, validinol (1), and one butanolide firstly isolated from the natural source, validinolide (2), together with 17 known compounds were isolated from the stem of Cinnamomum validinerve. Among the isolates, lincomolide A (3), secosubamolide (7), and cinnamtannin B1 (19) exhibited potent inhibition on both superoxide anion generation (IC50 values of 2.98 ± 0.3 µM, 4.37 ± 0.38 µM, and 2.20 ± 0.3 µM, respectively) and elastase release (IC50 values of 3.96 ± 0.31 µM, 3.04 ± 0.23 µM, and 4.64 ± 0.71 µM, respectively) by human neutrophils. In addition, isophilippinolide A (6), secosubamolide (7), and cinnamtannin B1 (19) showed bacteriostatic effects against Propionibacterium acnes in in vitro study, with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values at 16 μg/mL, 16 μg/mL, and 500 μg/mL, respectively. Further investigations using the in vivo ear P. acnes infection model showed that the intraperitoneal administration of the major component cinnamtannin B1 (19) reduced immune cell infiltration and pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 at the infection sites. The results demonstrated the potential of cinnamtannin B1 (19) for acne therapy. In summary, these results demonstrated the anti-inflammatory potentials of Formosan C. validinerve during bacterial infections.
Denitrative Cross-Couplings of Nitrostyrenes
Authors: Marčeková Michaela , Ferko Branislav , Detková Katarína Ráchel , Jakubec Pavol
Published: July 2020

Interestingly, β-nitrostyrenes, typically bench stable compounds, are highly promising cross-coupling partners, due to their excellent availability and well understood reactivity. In this review, we report on the discovery and advancements, in the field of stereoselective, denitrative cross-couplings of β-nitrostyrenes with miscellaneous organic reagents. The rapidly expanding field offers alternative access to a broad range of functionalized alkenes, including β-alkylated styrenes, chalcones, stilbenes, cinnamic acids, and conjugated sulfones and phosphonates. The most important mechanistic pathways are briefly discussed, to familiarize readers with the elementary reactions occurring during the coupling.
B12 as a Treatment for Peripheral Neuropathic Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Julian Thomas , Syeed Rubiya , Glascow Nicholas , Angelopoulou Efthalia , Zis Panagiotis
Published: July 2020

Neuropathic pain describes a range of unpleasant sensations caused by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory nervous system. The sensations caused by neuropathic pain are debilitating and improved treatment regimens are sought in order to improve the quality of life of patients. One proposed treatment for neuropathic pain is vitamin B12, which is thought to alleviate pain by a number of mechanisms including promoting myelination, increasing nerve regeneration and decreasing ectopic nerve firing. In this paper, the evidence for B12 as a drug treatment for neuropathic pain is reviewed. Twenty four published articles were eligible for inclusion in this systematic review in which a range of treatment regimens were evaluated including both B12 monotherapy and B12 in combination with other vitamins or conventional treatments, such as gabapentinoids. Overall, this systematic review demonstrates that there is currently some evidence for the therapeutic effect of B12 in the treatment of post-herpetic neuralgia (level II evidence) and the treatment of painful peripheral neuropathy (level III evidence).
Effects of Dietary Nitrate Supplementation on Weightlifting Exercise Performance in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: San Juan Alejandro F. , Dominguez Raul , Lago-Rodríguez Ángel , Montoya Juan José , Tan Rachel , Bailey Stephen J.
Published: July 2020

Dietary nitrate (NO3−) supplementation has been evidenced to induce an ergogenic effect in endurance and sprint-type exercise, which may be underpinned by enhanced muscle contractility and perfusion, particularly in type II muscle fibers. However, limited data are available to evaluate the ergogenic potential of NO3− supplementation during other exercise modalities that mandate type II fiber recruitment, such as weightlifting exercise (i.e., resistance exercise). In this systematic review, we examine the existing evidence basis for NO3− supplementation to improve muscular power, velocity of contraction, and muscular endurance during weightlifting exercise in healthy adults. We also discuss the potential mechanistic bases for any positive effects of NO3− supplementation on resistance exercise performance. Dialnet, Directory of Open Access Journals, Medline, Pubmed, Scielo, Scopus and SPORT Discus databases were searched for articles using the keywords: nitrate or beetroot and supplement or nut*r or diet and strength or “resistance exercise” or “resistance training” or “muscular power”. Four articles fulfilling the inclusion criteria were identified. Two of the four studies indicated that NO3− supplementation could increase aspects of upper body weightlifting exercise (i.e., bench press) performance (increases in mean power/velocity of contraction/number of repetitions to failure), whereas another study observed an increase in the number of repetitions to failure during lower limb weightlifting exercise (i.e., back squat). Although these preliminary observations are encouraging, further research is required for the ergogenic potential of NO3− supplementation on weightlifting exercise performance to be determined.
Concentrated Preterm Formula as a Liquid Human Milk Fortifier at Initiation Stage in Extremely Low Birth Weight Preterm Infants: Short Term and 2-year Follow-up Outcomes
Authors: Lin Yung-Chieh , Chen Yen-Ju , Huang Chao-Ching , Shieh Chi-Chang
Published: July 2020

Human milk (HM) must be accurately fortified for extremely low birth weight (ELBW) preterm infants with human milk fortifiers (HMFs). Powdered HMF has some limitations in terms of sterilization and accuracy. A concentrated preterm formula (CPF) may serve as a safe liquid HMF to facilitate growth. Hence, we launched a quality improvement project for fortification accuracy of minute volume HM. A CPF, Similac Special Care 30 (SSC30), was newly introduced as an HMF when daily feeding reached 100 cm3/kg. CPF + HM (1:2 volume ratio), CPF + HM (1:1 volume ratio), and powdered HMF + HM (1 packet in 25 cm3) represented three fortification stages. Fortification shifted to powdered HMF while tolerable feeding reached 25 cm3/meal. The outcome was compared before (Period-I, January 2015 to June 2016, n = 37) and after the new implement (Period-II, July 2016 to December 2017, n = 36). Compared with the Period-I group, the Period-II group had significantly higher daily enteral milk intake in the first 4 weeks of life, and higher percentages of fortification in the HM-fed infants in the first 8 weeks after birth. The Period-II group also significantly increased in body weight growth in terms of z-score at term equivalent age (p = 0.04) and had better language and motor performance at 24 months old (p = 0.048 and p = 0.032, respectively). Using the liquid CPF as a strategical alternative fortification of HM might be beneficial for extremely preterm infants in terms of growth as well as neurodevelopment.
Exploring Rural Adolescents’ Dietary Diversity and Its Socioeconomic Correlates: A Cross-Sectional Study from Matlab, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Mohammad Redwanul , Rahman Syed Moshfiqur , Tarafder Chandan , Rahman Md. Monjur , Rahman Anisur , Ekström Eva-Charlotte
Published: July 2020

The majority of 36 million Bangladeshi adolescents live in rural areas. Improved understanding of their dietary patterns is of great public health importance. This study aimed to explore dietary diversity (DD) with its socioeconomic and gender stratification in a rural adolescent cohort and to isolate factors associated with inadequate DD. Household survey provided data for constructing dietary diversity scores (DDS) and assessing relevant socio-demographic variables. Final analysis included 2463 adolescents. Means and proportions were compared, and a binary logistic regression model was fitted. Inadequate DD was observed among 42.3% (40.3–44.2). Consumption of nutrient-rich foods varied significantly across gender and SES categories. Belonging to the poorest households (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.59; 95% CI: 1.27, 2.00) and food insecure households (aOR 1.34; 95% CI: 1.13, 1.59), adolescents’ attainment of secondary education (aOR 1.38; 95% CI: 1.11, 1.71), and having mothers with secondary education or above (aOR 0.76; 95% CI: 0.60, 0.96) were associated with inadequate DD. Compared with girls from food secure households, girls from food insecure ones had higher odds of inadequate DD (aORgirl 1.42; 95% CI: 1.12, 1.81). Improving rural adolescents’ DD would require targeted interventions as well as broader poverty alleviation.
Chemical Composition and Glycemic Index of Gluten-Free Bread Commercialized in Brazil
Authors: Romão Bernardo , Botelho Raquel Braz Assunção , Alencar Ernandes Rodrigues , da Silva Vera Sônia Nunes , Pacheco Maria Teresa Bertoldo , Zandonadi Renata Puppin
Published: July 2020

Nowadays, the world is experiencing an increased demand for gluten-free products associated with the high prevalence of gluten-related disorders (GRD). As this market thrives, bread stands out as the most demanded and consumed product, highlighting the need to evaluate its nutritional quality. In this sense, this cross-sectional study aimed to assess the ingredients, chemical composition, and glycemic index of gluten-free bread (GFB) commercialized nationwide in Brazil. The labels were analyzed according to their ingredients and composition. In addition, centesimal composition analysis (moisture, carbohydrates, protein, ash, lipid, and fiber) was performed using the official methods, as well as the in vivo glycemic index. Significant differences between manufacturing lots of each brand and between different gluten-free bread samples were found. There is a mismatch from what is stipulated by the Brazilian legislation between analytical data and the data described on sample labels. Samples showed predominantly refined starch and high glycemic index profile. Most samples (75%, n = 6) of the non-whole gluten-free bread (n = 8) presented high glycemic index (GI). From four whole food/multigrain gluten-free bread samples, three of them (75%) presented medium GI. However, two samples presented GI near the value to be considered high. The results suggest a lack of production control, impairing the gluten-free nutritional label as a reliable information source and tool for dietary control. Therefore, it is necessary to standardize the process of gluten-free bread production and labeling, as well as to improve the nutritional characteristics of these products, aiming the give accurate information to consumers and provide a healthier product beyond the sensory characteristics.
Mediterranean Diet Effects on Type 2 Diabetes Prevention, Disease Progression, and Related Mechanisms. A Review
Authors: Martín-Peláez Sandra , Fito Montse , Castaner Olga
Published: July 2020

The search for a quality diet has grown over the past decade. Diet is considered one of the pillars for the prevention and progression of several diseases, among them: diabetes. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is an epidemic of western countries that increases the vulnerability of other diseases, such as cardiovascular and cancer. T2D is associated with lifestyle and diet. The traditional Mediterranean diet has proven its benefits over several cardiovascular risk factors, and specifically on diabetes. This review compiles recent published evidence on the effects of the Mediterranean diet on the incidence and progression of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and its relation with several other cardiovascular healthy diets. We will also focus on how the Mediterranean diet could play a role in T2D-related mechanisms, such as anti-inflammatory or antioxidant compounds, glucagon-like peptide agonist compounds, and changes in gut microbiota. Each component of the Mediterranean diet could be involved in processes related to diabetes homeostasis, many of them sharing common physio-pathological pathways. The importance of this diet within the set of habits of a healthy lifestyle must be emphasized.
Population-Based Registry Analysis of Antidiabetics Dispensations: Trend Use in Spain between 2015 and 2018 with Reference to Driving
Authors: Gutiérrez-Abejón Eduardo , Criado-Espegel Paloma , Herrera-Gómez Francisco , Álvarez F. Javier
Published: July 2020

Insulins and some oral antidiabetics are considered to be driving-impairing medicines (DIM) and they belong to the Driving under the Influence of Drugs, alcohol, and medicines (DRUID) category I (minor influence on fitness to drive). The trend of antidiabetics use in Castilla y León from 2015 to 2018 is presented through a population-based registry study. Treatment duration with these medicines and the concomitant use of other DIMs were observed. An adjustment method was used with information from the drivers’ license census. For all calculations, age and gender were taken into account. 3.98% of the general population used at least one antidiabetic, as well as 2.92% of drivers. The consumption of antidiabetics in men was higher than in women (4.35% vs. 3.61%, p = 0.001), and the use increases with age, especially from 35–39 years to 75–79 years in men and 85–89 years in women. Antidiabetics were consumed chronically, specifically 100% in the case of insulins and 95% in the case of oral antidiabetics. In addition to antidiabetics, 2.5 ± 1.86 DIMs were consumed, mainly anxiolytics (25.53%), opioids (23.03%), other analgesics and antipiretics (19.13%), and antidepressants (17.73%). Collaboration between pharmacists and physicians is a priority to clearly transmitting risks to patients. It is necessary that the health authorities include information on DIMs, such as the DRUID classification, in the prescription and dispensing software.
Immune Pathogenesis of COVID-19 Intoxication: Storm or Silence?
Authors: Kiselevskiy Mikhail , Shubina Irina , Chikileva Irina , Sitdikova Suria , Samoylenko Igor , Anisimova Natalia , Kirgizov Kirill , Suleimanova Amina , Gorbunova Tatyana , Varfolomeeva Svetlana
Published: July 2020

Dysregulation of the immune system undoubtedly plays an important and, perhaps, determining role in the COVID-19 pathogenesis. While the main treatment of the COVID-19 intoxication is focused on neutralizing the excessive inflammatory response, it is worth considering an equally significant problem of the immunosuppressive conditions including immuno-paralysis, which lead to the secondary infection. Therefore, choosing a treatment strategy for the immune-mediated complications of coronavirus infection, one has to pass between Scylla and Charybdis, so that, in the fight against the “cytokine storm,” it is vital not to miss the point of the immune silence that turns into immuno-paralysis.
Micelles of Progesterone for Topical Eye Administration: Interspecies and Intertissues Differences in Ex Vivo Ocular Permeability
Authors: Alambiaga-Caravaca Adrián M. , Calatayud-Pascual María Aracely , Rodilla Vicent , Concheiro Angel , López-Castellano Alicia , Alvarez-Lorenzo Carmen
Published: July 2020

Progesterone (PG) may provide protection to the retina during retinitis pigmentosa, but its topical ocular supply is hampered by PG poor aqueous solubility and low ocular bioavailability. The development of efficient topical ocular forms must face up to two relevant challenges: Protective barriers of the eyes and lack of validated ex vivo tests to predict drug permeability. The aims of this study were: (i) To design micelles using Pluronic F68 and Soluplus copolymers to overcome PG solubility and permeability; and (ii) to compare drug diffusion through the cornea and sclera of three animal species (rabbit, porcine, and bovine) to investigate interspecies differences. Micelles of Pluronic F68 (3–4 nm) and Soluplus (52–59 nm) increased PG solubility by one and two orders of magnitude, respectively and exhibited nearly a 100% encapsulation efficiency. Soluplus systems showed in situ gelling capability in contrast to the low viscosity Pluronic F68 micelles. The formulations successfully passed the hen’s egg-chorioallantoic membrane test (HET-CAM) test. PG penetration through rabbit cornea and sclera was faster than through porcine or bovine cornea, although the differences were also formulation-dependent. Porcine tissues showed intermediate permeability between rabbit and bovine. Soluplus micelles allowed greater PG accumulation in cornea and sclera whereas Pluronic F68 promoted a faster penetration of lower PG doses.
Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant as a Sustained Release Drug Delivery Device for the Treatment of Ocular Diseases: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Iovino Claudio , Mastropasqua Rodolfo , Lupidi Marco , Bacherini Daniela , Pellegrini Marco , Bernabei Federico , Borrelli Enrico , Sacconi Riccardo , Carnevali Adriano , D’Aloisio Rossella , Cerquaglia Alessio , Finocchio Lucia , Govetto Andrea , Erba Stefano , Triolo Giacinto , Di Zazzo Antonio , Forlini Matteo , Vagge Aldo , Giannaccare Giuseppe
Published: July 2020

Drug delivery into the vitreous chamber remains a great challenge in the pharmaceutical industry due to the complex anatomy and physiology of the eye. Intravitreal injection is the mainstream route of drug administration to the posterior segment of the eye. The purpose of this review is to assess the current literature about the widening use of the intravitreal 0.7 mg dexamethasone (Dex) implant, and to provide a comprehensive collection of all the ocular disorders that benefit from Dex administration. Although anti-vascular endothelial growth-factors (VEGFs) have been largely indicated as a first-choice level, the Dex implant represents an important treatment option, especially in selected cases, such as vitrectomized eyes or patients in whom anti-VEGF failed or are contraindicated. In this article, the safety profile as well as the list of the possible complications related to intravitreal Dex injection are also discussed.
Development of New Strategies Using Extracellular Vesicles Loaded with Exogenous Nucleic Acid
Authors: Orefice Nicola Salvatore
Published: July 2020

Gene therapy is a therapeutic strategy of delivering foreign genetic material (encoding for an important protein) into a patient’s target cell to replace a defective gene. Nucleic acids are embedded within the adeno-associated virus (AAVs) vectors; however, preexisting immunity to AAVs remains a significant concern that impairs their clinical application. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) hold great potential for therapeutic applications as vectors of nucleic acids due to their endogenous intercellular communication functions through their cargo delivery, including lipids and proteins. So far, small RNAs (siRNA and micro (mi)RNA) have been mainly loaded into EVs to treat several diseases, but the potential use of EVs to load and deliver exogenous plasmid DNA has not been thoroughly described. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the principal methodologies currently employed to load foreign genetic material into EVs, highlighting the need to find the most effective strategies for their successful clinical translation.
The Expanding Role of the Oncology Pharmacist
Authors: Holle Lisa M. , Segal Eve M. , Jeffers Kate D.
Published: July 2020

Although oncology pharmacists have been involved in the care of cancer patients for over 50 years, the role of the oncology pharmacist continues to expand. Initially, pharmacists were primarily based within either an inpatient or outpatient pharmacy setting and their work focused on providing the necessary safety checks to dispense cancer-related medications. With technology freeing up pharmacists from dispensing functions and advanced training in direct patient care (e.g., oncology residency, oncology fellowship), the oncology pharmacist was able to provide direct patient care at the bedside or within the clinic where treatment decisions are made by the healthcare team. In fact, they have become integral members of the healthcare team. This Issue describes several expanding roles of oncology pharmacists in stem cell transplant, hematology, gastrointestinal oncology, and precision genomics, as well as oncology pharmacists preventing a reduction in cancer patient visits as the oncology physician shortage occurs. Oncology pharmacists are an integral part of the cancer care team; their value has been documented in several studies, and is highlighted in this Issue. We encourage the profession to continue to document their value so that one day each patient can have an oncology pharmacist as part of their cancer care team.
Microstructured Fibers Based on Tellurite Glass for Nonlinear Conversion of Mid-IR Ultrashort Optical Pulses
Authors: Anashkina Elena A. , Dorofeev Vitaly V. , Skobelev Sergey A. , Balakin Alexey A. , Motorin Sergei E. , Kosolapov Alexey F. , Andrianov Alexey V.
Published: July 2020

Compact fiber-based sources generating optical pulses with a broadband spectrum in the mid-IR range are in demand for basic science and many applications. Laser systems producing tunable Raman solitons in special soft-glass fibers are of great interest. Here, we report experimental microstructured tellurite fibers and demonstrate by numerical simulation their applicability for nonlinear soliton conversion in the mid-infrared (-IR) range via soliton self-frequency shift. The fiber dispersion and nonlinearity are calculated for experimental geometry. It is shown numerically that there are two zero dispersion wavelengths for the core size of 2 μm and less. In such fibers, efficient Raman soliton tuning is attained up to a central wavelength of 4.8 μm using pump pulses at 2.8 μm.
Stretchable Electronics Based on Laser Structured, Vapor Phase Polymerized PEDOT/Tosylate
Authors: Aqrawe Zaid , Boehler Christian , Bansal Mahima , O’Carroll Simon J. , Asplund Maria , Svirskis Darren
Published: July 2020

The fabrication of stretchable conductive material through vapor phase polymerization of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) is presented alongside a method to easily pattern these materials with nanosecond laser structuring. The devices were constructed from sheets of vapor phase polymerized PEDOT doped with tosylate on pre-stretched elastomeric substrates followed by laser structuring to achieve the desired geometrical shape. Devices were characterized for electrical conductivity, morphology, and electrical integrity in response to externally applied strain. Fabricated PEDOT sheets displayed a conductivity of 53.1 ± 1.2 S cm−1; clear buckling in the PEDOT microstructure was observed as a result of pre-stretching the underlying elastomeric substrate; and the final stretchable electronic devices were able to remain electrically conductive with up to 100% of externally applied strain. The described polymerization and fabrication steps achieve highly processable and patternable functional conductive polymer films, which are suitable for stretchable electronics due to their ability to withstand externally applied strains of up to 100%.
Comparison of Structure and Local Dynamics of Two Peptide Dendrimers with the Same Backbone but with Different Side Groups in Their Spacers
Authors: Mikhtaniuk Sofia , Bezrodnyi Valeriy , Shavykin Oleg , Neelov Igor , Sheveleva Nadezhda , Penkova Anastasia , Markelov Denis
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we perform computer simulation of two lysine-based dendrimers with Lys-2Lys and Lys-2Gly repeating units. These dendrimers were recently studied experimentally by NMR (Sci. Reports, 2018, 8, 8916) and tested as carriers for gene delivery (Bioorg. Chem., 2020, 95, 103504). Simulation was performed by molecular dynamics method in a wide range of temperatures. We have shown that the Lys-2Lys dendrimer has a larger size but smaller fluctuations as well as lower internal density in comparison with the Lys-2Gly dendrimer. The Lys-2Lys dendrimer has larger charge but counterions form more ion pairs with its NH 3 + groups and reduce the bare charge and zeta potential of the first dendrimer more strongly. It was demonstrated that these differences between dendrimers are due to the lower flexibility and the larger charge (+2) of each 2Lys spacers in comparison with 2Gly ones. The terminal CH2 groups in both dendrimers move faster than the inner CH2 groups. The calculated temperature dependencies of the spin-lattice relaxation times of these groups for both dendrimers are in a good agreement with the experimental results obtained by NMR.
Quantify the Protein–Protein Interaction Effects on Adsorption Related Lubricating Behaviors of α-Amylase on a Glass Surface
Authors: Baskaran Nareshkumar , Chang You-Cheng , Chang Chia-Hua , Hung Shun-Kai , Kao Chuan-Tse , Wei Yang
Published: July 2020

Dental ceramic material is one of the widely preferred restorative materials to mimic the natural tooth enamel surface. However, it has continuously been degraded because of low wear resistance during mastication in the oral cavity. The friction involved was reduced by introducing the lubricant saliva protein layers to improve the wear resistance of the dental materials. However, little is understood regarding how the protein–protein interactions (PPI) influence the adsorbed-state structures and lubricating behaviors of saliva proteins on the ceramic material surface. The objective of this study is to quantify the influences of PPI effects on the structural changes and corresponding oral lubrications of adsorbed α-amylase, one of the abundant proteins in the saliva, on the dental ceramic material with glass as a model surface. α-Amylase was first adsorbed to glass surface under varying protein solution concentrations to saturate the surface to vary the PPI effects over a wide range. The areal density of the adsorbed protein was measured as an indicator of the level of PPI effects within the layer, and these values were then correlated with the measurements of the adsorbed protein’s secondary structure and corresponding friction coefficient. The decreased friction coefficient value was an indicator of the lubricated surfaces with higher wear resistance. Our results indicate that PPI effects help stabilize the structure of α-amylase adsorbed on glass, and the correlation observed between the friction coefficient and the conformational state of adsorbed α-amylase was apparent. This study thus provides new molecular-level insights into how PPI influences the structure and lubricating behaviors of adsorbed protein, which is critical for the innovations of dental ceramic material designs with improved wear resistance.
Research on the Optimal Configuration of Regional Integrated Energy System Based on Production Simulation
Authors: Shi Tao , Huang Ruan-Ming , Ding Cang-Bi
Published: July 2020

This paper is focused mainly on the production simulation method of a regional integrated energy system under random scenarios for optimal configuration. First, the cooling, heating, and electric load demand of the regional integrated energy system is described quantitatively in the form of time series, as well as the power characteristics of renewable energy, such as wind power and photovoltaic power generation. Then, a typical scenario set of regional integrated energy system configurations considering the random probability characteristics is established through scene clustering. Second, considering the power output characteristics and cost factors of different types of distributed energy, the corresponding technical and economic quantitative model is established. Third, a multi-objective production simulation model of a regional integrated energy system considering configuration constraints and operation constraints is proposed with economic and environmental protection as the main objectives. Finally, the accuracy and effectiveness of the above methods are verified based on a case study of actual engineering.
Contact Time of Double-Droplet Impacting Superhydrophobic Surfaces with Different Macrotextures
Authors: Lin Dian-Ji , Zhang Ling-Zhe , Yi Meng-Chao , Wang Xin , Gao Shu-Rong , Yang Yan-Ru , Zheng Shao-Fei , Wang Xiao-Dong
Published: July 2020

The contact time of droplets on superhydrophobic surfaces is an especially important parameter in many applications, such as self-cleaning, anti-icing, and spray cooling. In this study, we investigate the contact time of two identical droplets simultaneously impacting superhydrophobic surfaces decorated with three different macrotextures, i.e., bathtub-like groove (S1), vertical wall (S2), and rectangular ridge (S3), via lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) simulations. We explore influences of the geometrical parameters of the macrotextures, as well as the center-to-center distance of the two droplets, on the contact time. We found a new rebounding regime with significantly reduced contact times. We demonstrate that, as compared with impacting a smooth superhydrophobic surface, the contact time can be decreased by 41% for macrotexture S1 because of the asymmetric spreading and retraction of droplets motivated by the macrotexture. We also demonstrate that the new regime depends on the center-to-center distance and geometrical parameters of the macrotextures.
Preparation of Long-Term Antibacterial SiO2-Cinnamaldehyde Microcapsule via Sol-Gel Approach as a Functional Additive for PBAT Film
Authors: Xu Yangfan , Huang Chongxing , Dang Xiujie , Khan Muhammad Rafiullah , Huang Haohe , Zhao Yuan , Wang Shuangfei
Published: July 2020

The mesoporous silica wall materials can achieve controlled load and sustained-release of active agents. An antimicrobial nanoscale silica microcapsule containing cinnamaldehyde (CA) was prepared by the sol-gel method and applied in poly (butyleneadipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) film. The surface morphology, physical and chemical properties, and antibacterial properties of microcapsules and films were studied. The effects of different temperatures and humidities on the release behavior of microcapsules were also evaluated. Results showed that CA was successfully encapsulated in silica microcapsule which had a diameter of 450–700 nm. The antibacterial CA agent had a long-lasting release time under lower temperature and relative humidity (RH) environment. At low temperature (4 °C), the microcapsules released CA 32.35% in the first 18 h, and then slowly released to 56.08% in 216 h; however, the microcapsules released more than 70% in 18 h at 40 °C. At low humidity (50%RH), the release rates of microcapsules at the 18th h and 9th d were 43.04% and 78.01%, respectively, while it reached to equilibrium state at 72 h under 90% RH. The sustained release process of CA in SiO2-CA microcapsules follows a first-order kinetic model. Physicochemical properties of PBAT films loaded with different amounts of microcapsules were also characterized. Results showed that the tensile strength and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of the composite film containing 2.5% microcapsules were increased by 26.98% and 14.61%, respectively, compared to the raw film, while the light transmittance was slightly reduced. The crystallinity of the film was improved and can be kept stable up to 384.1 °C. Furthermore, microcapsules and composite film both exhibited distinctive antibacterial effect on Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes. Therefore, SiO2-CA microcapsules and composite films could be a promising material for the active packaging.
Intensive Multiple Sequential Batch Simultaneous Saccharification and Cultivation of Kluyveromyces marxianus SS106 Thermotolerant Yeast Strain for Single-Step Ethanol Fermentation from Raw Cassava Starch
Authors: Malairuang Kwanruthai , Krajang Morakot , Rotsattarat Rapeepong , Chamsart Saethawat
Published: July 2020

We developed the intensive multiple sequential batch simultaneous saccharification and cultivation of the selected thermotolerant yeast strain for single-step ethanol production. The selection and high-cell-density inoculum production of thermotolerant yeast able to produce ethanol under the optimal conditions for single-step ethanol fermentation has become a necessity. In this study, the newly isolated Kluyveromyces marxianus SS106 could tolerate high temperatures (35–45 °C) and grow under a wide range of pH values (3.0–5.5), which are the optimum conditions of raw cassava starch hydrolyzing enzyme used in single-step ethanol fermentation. The high-cell-density concentration of K. marxianus SS106 was produced by a single batch and an intensive multiple sequential batch process in a 5-L stirred tank bioreactor using the simultaneous saccharification and cultivation (SSC) method. The single SSC process yielded the yeast cell biomass at a concentration of 39.30 g/L with a productivity of 3.28 g/L/h and a specific growth rate of 0.49 h−1. However, the yeast cell density concentration was higher in the intensive multiple sequential batch SSC than in the single batch process. This process yielded yeast cell biomass at concentrations of 36.09–45.82 g/L with productivities of 3.01–3.82 g/L/h and specific growth rates of 0.29–0.44 h−1 in the first six batch cycle. The results suggested that the intensive multiple sequential batch simultaneous saccharification and cultivation of K. marxianus SS106 would be a promising process for high-cell-density yeast production for use as the inoculum in single-step ethanol fermentation. Furthermore, we also experimented with single-step ethanol production from raw cassava starch by K. marxianus SS106 in a 5-L stirred tank fermenter. This produced ethanol at a concentration of 61.72 g/L with a productivity of 0.86 g/L/h.
Cooling Performance Analysis of the Lab-Scale Hybrid Oyster Refrigeration System
Authors: Qian Xuejun , Yang Yulai , Lee Seong W. , Caballes Marc J. L. , Alamu Oludayo S.
Published: July 2020

Compared with the waste-to-heat and electricity-based hybrid refrigeration system, the innovative lab-scale refrigeration system integrated with the DC and AC cooling units that able to use solar and electricity as energy resources. Previous studies found that temperature control and uniform temperature distribution in refrigeration systems are both critical factors reducing vibrio growth on raw oysters and saving energy consumption. Therefore, this refrigeration system also equipped a specially designed divider and was used to test various air circulation strategies to achieve uniform temperature distribution in six individual compartments. The objective is to investigate and evaluate the effects of air circulation strategies and operating conditions on the cooling performance, including temperature distribution, standard deviation of compartment temperatures, and cooling time using a factorial design method. Results indicated the maximum temperature difference between the compartments was 8.9 ± 2.0 °C, 6.7 ± 2.0 °C, and 4.8 ± 2.0 °C in the scenarios of no air circulation, natural air circulation, and combined natural and forced air circulation, respectively. The interaction of fan location and fan direction showed a significant effect on the compartment temperatures while there was no significant effect on cooling time. A circulation fan on the lower part of the 12-volt section with an air supply from the 12- to 110-volt section was determined as the optimal condition to achieve relatively uniform temperature distribution. Refrigeration system also achieved a cooling temperature of 7.2 °C within 150 min to meet regulations. To that end, the innovative hybrid oyster refrigeration system will benefit oyster industries, as well as the aquaculture farmers in terms of complying with regulations and energy savings.
Towards a Large-Scale 3D Modeling of the Built Environment—Joint Analysis of TanDEM-X, Sentinel-2 and Open Street Map Data
Authors: Esch Thomas , Zeidler Julian , Palacios-Lopez Daniela , Marconcini Mattia , Roth Achim , Mönks Milena , Leutner Benjamin , Brzoska Elisabeth , Metz-Marconcini Annekatrin , Bachofer Felix , Loekken Sveinung , Dech Stefan
Published: July 2020

Continental to global scale mapping of the human settlement extent based on earth observation satellite data has made considerable progress. Nevertheless, the current approaches only provide a two-dimensional representation of the built environment. Therewith, a full characterization is restricted in terms of the urban morphology and built-up density, which can only be gained by a detailed examination of the vertical settlement extent. This paper introduces a methodology for the extraction of three-dimensional (3D) information on human settlements by analyzing the digital elevation and radar intensity data collected by the German TanDEM-X satellite mission in combination with multispectral Sentinel-2 imagery and data from the Open Street Map initiative and the Global Urban Footprint human settlement mask. The first module of the underlying processor generates a normalized digital surface model from the TanDEM-X digital elevation model for all regions marked as a built-up area by the Global Urban Footprint. The second module generates a building mask based on a joint processing of Open Street Map, TanDEM-X/TerraSAR-X radar images, the calculated normalized digital surface model and Sentinel-2 imagery. Finally, a third module allocates the local relative heights of the normalized digital surface model to the building structures provided by the building mask. The outcome of the procedure is a 3D map of the built environment showing the estimated local height for all identified vertical building structures at 12 m spatial resolution. The results of a first validation campaign based on reference data collected for the seven cities of Amsterdam (NL), Indianapolis (US), Kigali (RW), Munich (DE), New York (US), Vienna (AT), and Washington (US) indicate the potential of the proposed methodology to accurately estimate the distribution of building heights within the built-up area.
Use of UAS Multispectral Imagery at Different Physiological Stages for Yield Prediction and Input Resource Optimization in Corn
Authors: Barzin Razieh , Pathak Rohit , Lotfi Hossein , Varco Jac , Bora Ganesh C.
Published: July 2020

Changes in spatial and temporal variability in yield estimation are detectable through plant biophysical characteristics observed at different phenological development stages of corn. A multispectral red-edge sensor mounted on an Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) can provide spatial and temporal information with high resolution. Spectral analysis of UAS acquired spatiotemporal images can be used to develop a statistical model to predict yield based on different phenological stages. Identifying critical vegetation indices (VIs) and significant spectral information could lead to increased yield prediction accuracy. The objective of this study was to develop a yield prediction model at specific phenological stages using spectral data obtained from a corn field. The available spectral bands (red, blue, green, near infrared (NIR), and red-edge) were used to analyze 26 different VIs. The spectral information was collected from a cornfield at Mississippi State University using a MicaSense multispectral red-edge sensor, mounted on a UAS. In this research, a new empirical method used to reduce the effects of bare soil pixels in acquired images was introduced. The experimental design was a randomized complete block that consisted of 16 blocks with 12 rows of corn planted in each block. Four treatments of nitrogen (N) including 0, 90, 180, and 270 kg/ha were applied randomly. Random forest was utilized as a feature selection method to choose the best combination of variables for different stages. Multiple linear regression and gradient boosting decision trees were used to develop yield prediction models for each specific phenological stage by utilizing the most effective variables at each stage. At the V3 (3 leaves with visible leaf collar) and V4-5 (4-5 leaves with visible leaf collar) stages, the Optimized Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (OSAVI) and Simplified Canopy Chlorophyll Content Index (SCCCI) were the single dominant variables in the yield predicting models, respectively. A combination of the Green Atmospherically Resistant Index (GARI), Normalized Difference Red-Edge (NDRE), and green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (GNDVI) at V6-7, SCCCI, and Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) at V10,11, and SCCCI, Green Leaf Index (GLI), and Visible Atmospherically Resistant Index (VARIgreen) at tasseling stage (VT) were the best indices for predicting grain yield of corn. The prediction models at V10 and VT had the greatest accuracy with a coefficient of determination of 0.90 and 0.93, respectively. Moreover, the SCCCI as a combined index seemed to be the most proper index for predicting yield at most of the phenological stages. As corn development progressed, the models predicted final grain yield more accurately.