bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Change of Use in Community Services among Disabled Older Adults during COVID-19 in Japan
Authors: Ito Tomoko , Hirata-Mogi Sachiko , Watanabe Taeko , Sugiyama Takehiro , Jin Xueying , Kobayashi Shu , Tamiya Nanako
Published: January 2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic, social interactions were restricted, including community services for disabled older adults. This study aimed to describe the change of use in community services related to long-term care insurance (LTCI) during the pandemic in Japan. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted using data collected via a cloud-based management support platform for older adult care provider “Kaipoke”, by a private-sector company “SMS Co., Ltd.”, in which care-managers of LTCI manage their office work. Data collection occurred from July 2019 to June 2020. Study subjects were LTCI service users aged 65 years and above. Subjects were living at home. We examined changes in the number of users of LTCI services before and after the COVID-19 pandemic began, using an interrupted time-series analysis. Results indicated that the use of outpatient services was reduced; however, home-visit services were maintained. The decrease in use was significant in the seven prefectures where the infection initially spread. There are concerns that older adults or surrounding caregivers can be affected by such changes in LTC service use. It is therefore necessary to implement sustainable measures from a long-term perspective and investigate their influence as part of future studies.
Oral Manifestations of Rett Syndrome—A Systematic Review
Authors: Mahdi Syed Sarosh , Jafri Hafsa Abrar , Allana Raheel , Amenta Francesco , Khawaja Mariam , Qasim Syed Saad B.
Published: January 2021

Rett Syndrome is an x linked developmental disorder which becomes apparent in females after 6 to 18 months of age. It leads to severe impairments including loss of speech, loss of hand movements/manual dexterity, characteristic hand movements such as hang wringing and intellectual disability/learning problems. This systematic review was carried out to identify the dental manifestation of Rett syndrome and to shed light on treatment options available for oral health problems associated with Rett syndrome. A systematic literature search was conducted on the PubMed, Scopus, Biomed, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholars, Cochrane and CINAHL using the following entries: Rett syndrome (n = 3790), Oral health and Rett syndrome (n = 17), dental health of Rett syndrome patients (n = 13), and the MeSH terms listed below: Rett syndrome and Oral Health (n = 17), Rett syndrome and dentistry (n = 29). The final review included 22 search articles. The most common oral findings was bruxism. Masseteric hypertrophy was also reported. Anterior open bite and non-physiological tooth wear was observed. Other oral manifestations of Rett syndrome included mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, digit/thumb sucking, high arch palate. Increased awareness and dental education amongst dentists and assistants regarding the dental manifestations of Rett syndrome and similar neurodevelopmental disorders is required to improve the level of care and empathy they can provide to these differently able patients. Research on dental aspects of Rett is scarce and this remains a neglected topic.
An Exploratory Study of the Relationships Between Diesel Engine Exhaust Particle Inhalation, Pulmonary Inflammation and Anxious Behavior
Authors: Jeong Sunyoung , Lee Jong-Hwa , Ha Jung-Heun , Kim Jinhee , Kim Inyong , Bae Sungryong
Published: January 2021

Recent technical developments brought negative side effects such as air pollution and large-scale fires, increasingly exposing people to diesel engine exhaust particles (DEP). Testing how DEP inhalation triggers pathophysiology in animal models could be useful in determining how it affects humans. To this end, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of pulmonary exposure to DEP for seven consecutive days in experimental male C5BL6/N mice. Twenty-four C5BL6/N mice were treated with one of the three test materials: distilled water for control, a low DEP exposure (5 mg/kg), or a high DEP exposure (15 mg/kg). Exposure to DEP induced decreased body weight; however, it gradually increased pulmonary weight in a DEP-dose-dependent manner. DEP exposure significantly elevated soot accumulation in the lungs, with the alteration of pulmonary homeostasis. It also elevated infiltrated immune cells, thus significantly increasing inflammatory cytokine mRNA and protein production in the lungs and broncho-alveolar lavage fluid, respectively. Pulmonary DEP exposure also altered behavioral responses in the open field test (OFT). Low exposure elevated moving distance and speed, while significantly decreasing the number of trials to enter the central zone. Different concentrations of DEP resulted in different behavioral changes; however, while anxiety levels increased, their degree was independent of DEP concentrations. Results suggest that DEP exposure may possess pro-inflammatory responses in the lungs and trigger anxiety.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Journal of Low Power Electronics and Applications in 2020
Authors:   Journal of Low Power Electronics and Applications Editorial Office
Published: January 2021

Peer review is the driving force of journal development, and reviewers are gatekeepers who ensure that Journal of Low Power Electronics and Applications maintains its standards for the high quality of its published papers [...]
Study on an Oscillating Water Column Wave Power Converter Installed in an Offshore Jacket Foundation for Wind-Turbine System Part I: Open Sea Wave Energy Converting Efficiency
Authors: Lee Hsien Hua , Chen Guan-Fu , Hsieh Hsiang-Yu
Published: January 2021

This study is focused on the wave energy converter of an oscillating water column (OWC) system that is integrated with a jacket type infrastructure applied for an offshore wind turbine system. In this way, electricity generation by both wind power and wave power can be conducted simultaneously to maximize the utilization of sustainable energy. A numerical analysis was performed in this research to model and simulate the airflow response and evaluate the converting efficiency of wave energy from an OWC system integrated with an offshore template structural system. The performance of the system including the generating airflow velocity, air-pressure in the chamber, generating power and then the converting efficiency of power from waves are all analyzed and discussed in terms of the variations of the OWC system’s geometrical parameters. The parameters under consideration include the exhale orifice-area of airflow, gate-openings of inflow water and the submerged chamber depth. It is found that from the analytical results the performance of the OWC wave energy converter is influenced by the dimensional parameters along with the design conditions of the local environment. After a careful design based on the in-situ conditions including water depth and wave parameters, an open OWC system can be successfully applied to the template structure of offshore wind power infrastructure as a secondary generating system for the multi-purpose utilization of the structure.
Robustness Study of Electro-Nuclear Scenario under Disruption
Authors: Liang Jiali , Ernoult Marc , Doligez Xavier , David Sylvain , Tillard Léa , Thiollière Nicolas
Published: January 2021

As the future of nuclear power is uncertain, only choosing one development objective for the coming decades can be risky; while trying to achieve several possible objectives at the same time may lead to a deadlock due to contradiction among them. In this work, we study a simple scenario to illustrate the newly developed method of robustness study, which considers possible change of objectives. Starting from the current French fleet, two objectives are considered regarding the possible political choices for the future of nuclear power: A. Complete substitution of Pressurized Water Reactors by Sodium-cooled Fast Reactors in 2180; B. Minimization of all potential nuclear wastes without SFR deployment in 2180. To study the robustness of strategies, the disruption of objective is considered: the objective to be pursued is possibly changed abruptly from A into B at unknown time. To minimize the consequence of such uncertainty, the first option is to identify a robust static strategy, which shows the best performance for both objectives A and B in the predisruption situation. The second option is to adapt a trajectory which pursues initially objective A, for objective B in case of the disruption. To identify and to analyze the adaptively robust strategies, outcomes of possible adaptations upon a given trajectory are compared with the robust static optimum. The temporality of adaptive robustness is analyzed by investigating different adaptation times.
Do Candida albicans Isolates with Borderline Resistant Micafungin MICs Always Harbor FKS1 Hot Spot Mutations?
Authors: Spettel Kathrin , Galazka Sonia , Kriz Richard , Camp Iris , Willinger Birgit
Published: January 2021

Antifungal susceptibility testing is important in guiding patient therapy due to an increasing number of resistant Candida isolates. In the clinical strain collection of the Austrian resistance report (AURES), a high number of micafungin-resistant C. albicans isolates (18.2% 49/269) was detected in seven different centres in Austria from 2011–2016. Most of these isolates showed a micafungin MIC value that was just above the clinical breakpoint (CB) established by EUCAST (0.016 mg/L). The aim of this study was to analyse whether C. albicans strains showing a micafungin MIC value of 1–2 dilutions above the CB (0.032 mg/L and 0.064 mg/L) are associated with mutations in FKS1 hotspot (HS) regions. 115 C. albicans candidemia strains showing a micafungin MIC one or two dilutions above the EUCAST CB (0.032 mg/L and 0.064 mg/L) were categorized as borderline resistant and screened for mutations in FKS1 HS1, HS2, and HS3 regions, which are known locations for the development of echinocandin resistance. For this purpose, we implemented targeted resequencing utilizing a next generation sequencing technology. No missense mutations could be detected in FKS1 HS1, HS2, and HS3 in any of the 115 isolates, which indicated that resistance conferred by alteration of FKS1 seems unlikely.
Effect of Hammer Type on Generated Mechanical Signals in Impact-Echo Testing
Authors: Dvořák Richard , Topolář Libor
Published: January 2021

The impact-echo diagnostic method is a well-known nondestructive pulse compression test method, which can be relatively easily used for the testing of concrete and reinforced concrete elements. The evaluation of the measurement with this method is based on the analysis of the signal itself in the time and frequency domains. This allows acquisition of information on the velocity of the mechanical wave, the resonant frequency of the specimen or on the presence of internal defects. The ability to interpret these measurements depends on the experience of the diagnostic technician. The advent of classification algorithms in the field of machine learning has brought an increasing number of applications where the entire interpretation phase can be considerably simplified with the help of classification models. However, this automated evaluation procedure must be provided with the information of whether the signal acquired by the test equipment has actually been measured under optimally set conditions. This paper proposes a procedure for the mutual comparison of different measuring setups with a variable tip type, hammer handle and impact force. These three variables were used for a series of measurements which were subsequently compared with each other using multi-criteria evaluation. This offers a tool for the evaluation of measured data and their filtering. As an output of the designed method, each measurement is marked by a score value, which represents how well the acquired signal fit the weight demands for each observed feature of the signal. The method allows the adjustment of selected demands for a specific application by means of set thresholds. This approach enables the understanding of characteristics of the signal in the automated pre-processing of measured data, where computing power is limited. Thus, this solution is potentially suitable for remote long-term observations with sensor arrays or for acoustic emission signals pre-processing.
Windblown Sand-Induced Degradation of Glass Panels in Curtain Walls
Authors: Zhao Yuxi , Liu Rongcheng , Yan Fan , Zhang Dawei , Liu Junjin
Published: January 2021

The windblown sand-induced degradation of glass panels influences the serviceability and safety of these panels. In this study, the degradation of glass panels subject to windblown sand with different impact velocities and impact angles was studied based on a sandblasting test simulating a sandstorm. After the glass panels were degraded by windblown sand, the surface morphology of the damaged glass panels was observed using scanning electron microscopy, and three damage modes were found: a cutting mode, smash mode, and plastic deformation mode. The mass loss, visible light transmittance, and effective area ratio values of the glass samples were then measured to evaluate the effects of the windblown sand on the panels. The results indicate that, at high abrasive feed rates, the relative mass loss of the glass samples decreases initially and then remains steady with increases in impact time, whereas it increases first and then decreases with an increase in impact angle such as that for ductile materials. Both visible light transmittance and effective area ratio decrease with increases in the impact time and velocities. There exists a positive linear relationship between the visible light transmittance and effective area ratio.
The Influence of a Novel Hydrophobic Agent on the Internal Defect and Multi-Scale Pore Structure of Concrete
Authors: Zhang Bo , Li Qingbin , Ma Rui , Niu Xujing , Yang Lin , Hu Yu , Zhang Jinliang
Published: January 2021

In high humidity areas, it is necessary to improve the impermeability of concrete to water and other erosion solutions. The internal defect and pore channel of concrete are the main factors affecting the impermeability and durability. In this paper, a novel hydrophobic agent named Yellow River Engineering Consulting (YREC) was prepared. The relative internal defect degree of concrete with different curing ages and YREC contents was evaluated by ultrasonic non-destructive testing as qualitative characterization method, and the effect of YREC on hydration reaction was investigates using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). Water permeability and contact angle tests were used to analyze the internal and external hydrophobicity induced by YREC addition, respectively. The pore structure changes of concrete mortar matrix induced by YREC were further discussed applying low-temperature liquid nitrogen adsorption (LT-NA) and mercury intrusion/extrusion porosimetry (MIP). The results indicated that YREC not only improves the impermeability of water, but also greatly enhances the mechanical strength. In the case of mixing YREC, the porosity of concrete mortar matrix decreases accompanied with the more advantage pores (micropores and transition pores) developed. Based on the relative internal defect degree and the changes of multi-scale pore structure, the functionality and durability of concrete with 4% YREC addition are the most desirable.
Updating Perspectives on Meta-Analyses in the Field of Radiation Oncology
Authors: Shin In-Soo , Rim Chai Hong
Published: January 2021

Meta-analyses have been conventionally performed to extract the firmest conclusions from randomized controlled trials while minimizing the risk of bias. However, the field of oncology does not always allow for collecting the best evidence. Radiation oncology is a discipline where intractable or rare diseases are commonly encountered; hence, more practical data suitable for detailed clinical evaluations are needed. This review discusses new viewpoints regarding meta-analyses by pointing out heterogeneities among clinical studies and issues related to analyzing observational studies, thus clarifying the practical utility of meta-analyses in radiation oncology. Limitations of previous systematic reviews or meta-analyses are also assessed to suggest future directions.
PROTACs and Building Blocks: The 2D Chemical Space in Very Early Drug Discovery
Authors: Ermondi Giuseppe , Garcia-Jimenez Diego , Caron Giulia
Published: January 2021

Targeted protein degradation by PROTACs has emerged as a new modality for the knockdown of a range of proteins, and, more recently, it has become increasingly clear that the PROTAC chemical space requires characterization through a pool of ad hoc physicochemical descriptors. In this study, a new database named PROTAC-DB that provides extensive information about PROTACs and building blocks was used to obtain the 2D chemical structures of about 1600 PROTACs, 60 E3 ligands, 800 linkers, and 202 warheads. For every structure, we calculated a pool of seven 2D descriptors carefully identified as informative for large and flexible structures. For comparison purposes, the same procedure was applied to a dataset of about 50 bRo5 approved drugs reported in the literature. Correlation matrices, PCAs, box plots, and other graphical tools were used to define and understand the chemical space covered by PROTACs and building blocks in relation to other compounds. Results show that linkers have different properties than E3 ligands and warheads. Polar descriptors additivity is not respected when passing from building blocks to degraders. Moreover, a very preliminary analysis based on three PROTACs with high, intermediate, and low permeability showed how the most permeable compounds seem to occupy a region closer to bRo5 drugs and, thus, exhibit different properties than impermeable compounds. Finally, a second database, PROTACpedia, was used to discuss the relevance of physicochemical descriptors on degradation activity.
New Isomalabaricane-Derived Metabolites from a Stelletta sp. Marine Sponge
Authors: Kolesnikova Sophia A. , Lyakhova Ekaterina G. , Kozhushnaya Anastasia B. , Kalinovsky Anatoly I. , Berdyshev Dmitrii V. , Popov Roman S. , Stonik Valentin A.
Published: January 2021

In continuation of our studies on a Vietnamese collection of a Stelletta sp., sponge we have isolated two new isomalabaricane triterpenoids, stellettins Q and R (1 and 2), and four new isomalabaricane-derived nor-terpenoids, stellettins S-V 3–6, along with previously known globostelletin N. Among them, compound 3 contains an acetylenic fragment, unprecedented in the isomalabaricane family and extremely rare in other marine sponge terpenoids. The structures and absolute configurations of all new compounds were established by extensive NMR, MS, and ECD analyses together with quantum-chemical modeling. Additionally, according to obtained new data we report the correction in stereochemistry of two asymmetric centers in the structures of two known isomalabaricanes, 15R,23S for globostelletin M and 15S,23R for globostelletin N.
MOFs as Potential Matrices in Cyclodextrin Glycosyltransferase Immobilization
Authors: Ogunbadejo Babatunde , Al-Zuhair Sulaiman
Published: January 2021

Cyclodextrins (CDs) and their derivatives have attracted significant attention in the pharmaceutical, food, and textile industries, which has led to an increased demand for their production. CD is typically produced by the action of cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGTase) on starch. Owing to the relatively high cost of enzymes, the economic feasibility of the entire process strongly depends on the effective retention and recycling of CGTase in the reaction system, while maintaining its stability. CGTase enzymes immobilized on various supports such as porous glass beads or glyoxyl-agarose have been previously used to achieve this objective. Nevertheless, the attachment of biocatalysts on conventional supports is associated with numerous drawbacks, including enzyme leaching prominent in physical adsorption, reduced activity as a result of chemisorption, and increased mass transfer limitations. Recent reports on the successful utilization of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) as supports for various enzymes suggest that CGTase could be immobilized for enhanced production of CDs. The three-dimensional microenvironment of MOFs could maintain the stability of CGTase while posing minimal diffusional limitations. Moreover, the presence of different functional groups on the surfaces of MOFs could provide multiple points for attachment of CGTase, thereby reducing enzyme loss through leaching. The present review focuses on the advantages MOFs can offer as support for CGTase immobilization as well as their potential for application in CD production.
Trait Energy and Fatigue Modify the Effects of Caffeine on Mood, Cognitive and Fine-Motor Task Performance: A Post-Hoc Study
Authors: Fuller Daniel T. , Smith Matthew Lee , Boolani Ali
Published: January 2021

Multiple studies suggest that genetic polymorphisms influence the neurocognitive effects of caffeine. Using data collected from a double-blinded, within-participants, randomized, cross-over design, this study examined the effects of trait (long-standing pre-disposition) mental and physical energy and fatigue to changes in moods (Profile of Mood Survey-Short Form (POMS-SF), state mental and physical energy and fatigue survey), cognitive (serial subtractions of 3 (SS3) and 7 (SS7)), and fine-motor task (nine-hole peg test) performance after consuming a caffeinated beverage and a non-caffeinated placebo. Results indicate that trait mental and physical fatigue and mental energy modified the effects of caffeine on vigor, tension-anxiety, physical, and mental fatigue. Additionally, we report that those who were high trait physical and mental fatigue and low-trait mental energy reported the greatest benefit of caffeine on the SS3 and SS7, while those who were high trait mental and physical fatigue reported the greatest benefit of consuming caffeine on fine-motor task performance. The results of our study suggest that trait mental and physical fatigue and mental energy modify the acute effects of caffeine among a group of healthy, young adults and should be measured and controlled for by researchers who choose to study the effects of caffeine on acute moods and cognitive and fine-motor task performance.
Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) in Children and Adolescents with Obesity: No Association with Daily Energy Intake but Promising Tool to Identify Metabolic Syndrome (MetS)
Authors: Vizzuso Sara , Del Torto Alberico , Dilillo Dario , Calcaterra Valeria , Di Profio Elisabetta , Leone Alessandro , Gilardini Luisa , Bertoli Simona , Battezzati Alberto , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Verduci Elvira
Published: January 2021

(1) Background. Visceral adiposity index (VAI) has been recently identified as a new cardiometabolic risk marker reflecting abdominal fat distribution and dyslipidaemia. The aim of the present paper was to evaluate the relationship between VAI, daily energy intake and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in a cohort of obese Caucasian children and adolescents, aged 8 to 15 years. (2) Methods. Consecutive Italian children and adolescents with obesity, according to World Health Organization were enrolled. Anthropometric parameters and blood pressure were measured. Fasting blood samples have been analyzed for lipids, insulin and glucose levels. MetS was diagnosed using identification and prevention of dietary- and lifestyle-induced health effects in children and infants (IDEFICS) or International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria according to age. Homeostatic model assessment index (HOMA-IR), quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI), A body shape index (ABSI) and VAI were calculated. Multivariable logistic regression analyses with sex, age and each anthropometric parameter (body mass index (BMI) z-score, ABSI, waist-to-height ratio (WHR)) or VAI was performed to predict MetS. Receiver operation curve (ROC) analysis was used to define the optimal VAI cut-off to identify MetS. Multiple regression was performed to predict the BMI z-score and VAI from daily energy intake after adjusting for age and sex. (3) Results. Six hundred and thirty-seven (313 boys and 324 girls) children and adolescents with obesity with median age 11 (interquartile range 10–13) years were included in the analysis. MetS was diagnosed in 79 patients. VAI correlated with BMI, WHR, ABSI, HOMA-IR, QUICKI, systolic blood pressure, low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides and triglycerides-to-HDL ratio (p < 0.050). Optimal VAI cut-off (AUC) values to identify MetS were 1.775 (0.774), 1.685 (0.776) and 1.875 (0.797) in the whole population, boys and girls, respectively. Energy intake was positively associated with BMI z-score but no association was found with VAI. (4) Conclusion. VAI is a promising tool to identify MetS in children and adolescents with obesity and should be used in the management of abdominal obesity together with dietary assessment.
The Influence of Omega-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid, Docosahexaenoic Acid, on Child Behavioral Functioning: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials of DHA Supplementation in Pregnancy, the Neonatal Period and Infancy
Authors: Gould Jacqueline F. , Roberts Rachel M. , Makrides Maria
Published: January 2021

This is a review of randomized controlled trials using docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) interventions in the first 1000 days of life with assessments of behavioral functioning in childhood. Electronic databases were searched for trials with a DHA intervention (compared with a placebo group that received no or less DHA) at any time to either women or infants during the first 1000 days, with a subsequent assessment of child behavior. There were 25 trials involving 10,320 mother–child pairs, and 71 assessments of behavior in 6867 of the children (66.5% of those originally enrolled). From the 71 assessments administered, there were 401 comparisons between a DHA group and a control group, with most reporting a null effect. There were no findings of a positive effect of DHA, and 23 instances where the DHA group had worse scores compared with the control group. There was limited evidence that DHA supplementation had any effect on behavioral development, although two of the largest trials with behavioral measures detected adverse effects. Future trials, and future follow-ups of existing trials, should make an effort to evaluate the effect of DHA intervention on behavioral functioning.
Assessment of a 4-Week Starch- and Sucrose-Reduced Diet and Its Effects on Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Inflammatory Parameters among Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Nilholm Clara , Larsson Ewa , Sonestedt Emily , Roth Bodil , Ohlsson Bodil
Published: January 2021

Dietary advice constitutes a treatment strategy for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We aimed to examine the effect of a starch- and sucrose-reduced diet (SSRD) on gastrointestinal symptoms in IBS patients, in relation to dietary intake and systemic inflammatory parameters. IBS patients (n = 105) were randomized to a 4-week SSRD intervention (n = 80) receiving written and verbal dietary advice focused on starch and sucrose reduction and increased intake of protein, fat and dairy, or control group (n = 25; habitual diet). At baseline and 4 weeks, blood was sampled, and participants filled out IBS-SSS, VAS-IBS, and Rome IV questionnaires and dietary registrations. C-reactive protein and cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-18 were analyzed from plasma. At 4 weeks, the intervention group displayed lower total IBS-SSS, ‘abdominal pain’, ‘bloating/flatulence’ and ‘intestinal symptoms´ influence on daily life’ scores (p ≤ 0.001 for all) compared to controls, and a 74%, responder rate (RR = ΔTotal IBS-SSS ≥ −50; RRcontrols = 24%). Median values of sucrose (5.4 vs. 20 g), disaccharides (16 vs. 28 g), starch (22 vs. 82 g) and carbohydrates (88 vs. 182 g) were lower for the intervention group compared to controls (p ≤ 0.002 for all), and energy percentages (E%) of protein (21 vs. 17 E%, p = 0.006) and fat (47 vs. 38 E%, p = 0.002) were higher. Sugar-, starch- and carbohydrate-reductions correlated weakly-moderately with total IBS-SSS decrease for all participants. Inflammatory parameters were unaffected. IBS patients display high compliance to the SSRD, with improved gastrointestinal symptoms but unaltered inflammatory parameters. In conclusion, the SSRD constitutes a promising dietary treatment for IBS, but needs to be further researched and compared to established dietary treatments before it could be used in a clinical setting.
Frailty Severity and Cognitive Impairment Associated with Dietary Diversity in Older Adults in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Wei-Ching , Huang Yi-Chen , Lee Meei-Shyuan , Chang Hsing-Yi , Doong Jia-Yau
Published: January 2021

This study aims to investigate whether frailty severity in conjunction with cognitive function, termed as” cognitive frailty”, is associated with dietary diversity in older adults. This cross-sectional study used the data from the 2014–2016 Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (N = 1115; age ≥ 65 years). Dietary intake was assessed using a 24 h dietary recall and food-frequency questionnaire, and dietary diversity score (DDS; range, 0–6) and food intake frequency were calculated. The presence of frailty phenotypes was determined using the FRAIL scale, which was proposed by the International Association of Nutrition and Aging, and cognitive function was assessed using the Mini–Mental State Examination (MMSE) score. The prevalence of cognitive frailty (FRAIL scale score ≥ 3 and MMSE score ≤ 26) was 4.2%. A higher consumption frequency of dairy products, whole grains, vegetables, fruit, fish and seafood, nuts, tea, and coffee, as well as lower pickled vegetable, was inversely associated with cognitive frailty. Those with prefrailty or frailty and lower DDS demonstrated a higher cognitive impairment risk (adjust odds ratio (OR) = 2.15, 95% confidence interval = 1.21–3.83) than those without frailty and higher DDS. Older adults with cognitive prefrailty or cognitive frailty were associated with lower DDS, and frailty with lower DDS was associated with worsening cognitive function.
Magnesium Oxide in Constipation
Authors: Mori Hideki , Tack Jan , Suzuki Hidekazu
Published: January 2021

Magnesium oxide has been widely used as a laxative for many years in East Asia, yet its prescription has largely been based on empirical knowledge. In recent years, several new laxatives have been developed, which has led to a resurgence in interest and increased scientific evidence surrounding the use of magnesium oxide, which is convenient to administer, of low cost, and safe. Despite these advantages, emerging clinical evidence indicates that the use of magnesium oxide should take account of the most appropriate dose, the serum concentration, drug–drug interactions, and the potential for side effects, especially in the elderly and in patients with renal impairment. The aim of this review is to evaluate the evidence base for the clinical use of magnesium oxide for treating constipation and provide a pragmatic guide to its advantages and disadvantages.
Ultra-Processed Food Consumption is Associated with Renal Function Decline in Older Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Rey-García Jimena , Donat-Vargas Carolina , Sandoval-Insausti Helena , Bayan-Bravo Ana , Moreno-Franco Belén , Banegas José Ramón , Rodríguez-Artalejo Fernando , Guallar-Castillón Pilar
Published: January 2021

Ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular risk factors and mortality. However, little is known on the UPF effect on renal function. The aim of this study is to assess prospectively the association between consumption of UPF and renal function decline. This is a prospective cohort study of 1312 community-dwelling individuals aged 60 and older recruited during 2008–2010 and followed up to December 2015. At baseline, a validated dietary history was obtained. UPF was identified according to NOVA classification. At baseline and at follow-up, serum creatinine (SCr) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) levels were ascertained and changes were calculated. A combined end-point of renal decline was considered: SCr increase or eGFR decreased beyond that expected for age. Logistic regression with adjustment for potential confounders was performed. During follow-up, 183 cases of renal function decline occurred. The fully adjusted odds ratios (95% CI) of renal function decline across terciles of percentage of total energy intake from UPF were 1.56 (1.02–2.38) for the second tercile, and 1.74 (1.14–2.66) for the highest tercile; p-trend was 0.026. High UPF consumption is independently associated with an increase higher than 50% in the risk of renal function decline in Spanish older adults.
Microwell Plate-Based Dynamic Light Scattering as a High-Throughput Characterization Tool in Biopharmaceutical Development
Authors: Dauer Katharina , Pfeiffer-Marek Stefania , Kamm Walter , Wagner Karl G.
Published: January 2021

High-throughput light scattering instruments are widely used in screening of biopharmaceutical formulations and can be easily incorporated into processes by utilizing multi-well plate formats. High-throughput plate readers are helpful tools to assess the aggregation tendency and colloidal stability of biological drug candidates based on the diffusion self-interaction parameter (kD). However, plate readers evoke issues about the precision and variability of determined data. In this article, we report about the statistical evaluation of intra- and inter-plate variability (384-well plates) for the kD analysis of protein and peptide solutions. ANOVA revealed no significant differences between the runs. In conclusion, the reliability and precision of kD was dependent on the plate position of the sample replicates and kD value. Positive kD values (57.0 mL/g, coefficients of variation (CV) 8.9%) showed a lower variability compared to negative kD values (−14.8 mL/g, CV 13.4%). The variability of kD was not reduced using more data points (120 vs. 30). A kD analysis exclusively based on center wells showed a lower CV (<2%) compared to edge wells (5–12%) or a combination of edge and center wells (2–5%). We present plate designs for kD analysis within the early formulation development, screening up to 20 formulations consuming less than 50 mg of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API).
The Resistive Barrier Discharge: A Brief Review of the Device and Its Biomedical Applications
Authors: Laroussi Mounir
Published: January 2021

This paper reviews the principles behind the design and operation of the resistive barrier discharge, a low temperature plasma source that operates at atmospheric pressure. One of the advantages of this plasma source is that it can be operated using either DC or AC high voltages. Plasma generated by the resistive barrier discharge has been used to efficiently inactivate pathogenic microorganisms and to destroy cancer cells. These biomedical applications of low temperature plasma are of great interest because in recent times bacteria developed increased resistance to antibiotics and because present cancer therapies often are accompanied by serious side effects. Low temperature plasma, such the one generated by the resistive barrier discharge, is a technology that can help overcome these healthcare challenges.
Multifunctional Finishing of Cotton with Compounds Derived from MCT-β-CD and Quantification of Effects Using MLR Statistical Analysis
Authors: Popescu Vasilica , Petrea Marioara , Popescu Andrei
Published: January 2021

Multifunctionalization of cotton using a single product has not been made until now. Such a product was synthesized using compounds with multiple functions (glyoxal, ethylenediamine (ED) and monochlorotriazinyl-β–cyclodextrin (MCT-β-CD)), under different mass ratios. Obtaining this multifunctional derivative has been confirmed by spectroscopic analyses (1H-NMR and FTIR) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Treatment of cotton with the MCT-β-CD derivative (D-CD) has been realized with the pad dry-cure technology. The presence of this multifunctional derivative on cotton was highlighted with spectroscopic (FTIR, EDAX, XRD) and thermoanalytical (DSC) methods. The objective of treating cotton with D-CD was to achieve four simultaneous effects: large wrinkle recovery angle (WRA), hydrophilicity, antibacterial capacity and a good breaking resistance. This objective has been achieved, so the garments that will be manufactured with such multifunctional cotton will be more comfortable. The efficiency of treatments with D-CD was marked out by multiple linear regression (MLR) and certain quality indices. Using MLR, the behavior of the treated cotton was mathematically modeled and the stationary/optimal points corresponding to each effect were calculated. Quality indices have been calculated and all final samples had values higher than 1, which confirmed the positive effects exerted by D-CDs on cotton.
Multi-Micro/Nanolayer Films Based on Polyolefins: New Approaches from Eco-Design to Recycling
Authors: Cabrera Geraldine , Touil Ibtissam , Masghouni Emna , Maazouz Abderrahim , Lamnawar Khalid
Published: January 2021

This paper describes a future-oriented approach for the valorization of polyethylene-based multilayer films. The method involves going from eco-design to mechanical recycling of multilayer films via forced assembly coextrusion. The originality of this study consists in limiting the number of constituents, reducing/controlling the thickness of the layers and avoiding the use of tie layers. The ultimate goal is to improve the manufacturing of new products from recycled multilayer materials by simplifying their recyclability. Within this framework, new structures were developed with two polymer systems: polyethylene/polypropylene and polyethylene/polystyrene, with nominal micro- and nanometric thicknesses. Hitherto, the effect of the multi-micro/nanolayer architecture as well as initial morphological and mechanical properties was evaluated. Several recycling processes were investigated, including steps such as: (i) grinding; (ii) monolayer cast film extrusion; or (iii) injection molding with or without an intermediate blending step by twin-screw extrusion. Subsequently, the induced morphological and mechanical properties were investigated depending on the recycling systems and the relationships between the chosen recycling processes or strategies, and structure and property control of the recycled systems was established accordingly. Based on the results obtained, a proof of concept was demonstrated with the eco-design of multi-micro/nanolayer films as a very promising solution for the industrial issues that arise with the valorization of recycled materials.
Transglutaminase Cross-Linked Gelatin-Alginate-Antibacterial Hydrogel as the Drug Delivery-Coatings for Implant-Related Infections
Authors: Sun Chung-Kai , Ke Cherng-Jyh , Lin Yi-Wen , Lin Feng-Huei , Tsai Tung-Hu , Sun Jui-Sheng
Published: January 2021

Implant-related infection may be catastrophic and result in poor functional outcome, chronic osteomyelitis, implant failure or even sepsis and death. Based on a transglutaminase (TGase) cross-linked/antibiotics-encapsulated gelatin-alginate hydrogel, the main aim of this study is to establish an effective antibiotic slow-release system. The second aim is to evaluate the efficacy of a hydrogel-encapsulated antibiotic-containing titanium pin in preventing implant-related infections in a rat model. The prepared gelatin/alginate/gentamicin or vancomycin hydrogel was covalently cross-linked with transglutaminase (TGase). Its drug release profile and cytotoxicity were determined and the Wistar rat animal model was performed to validate its efficacy by radiographic examination, Micro-CT (computed tomography) evaluation and histo-morphological analysis at 12 weeks after surgery. When gelatin and alginate were thoroughly mixed with TGase, both 0.5% and 1.0% TGase can effectively cross link the hydrogel; the release of antibiotic is slowed down with higher degree of TGase concentration (from 20 min to more than 120 h). In the animal study, antibiotic-impregnated hydrogel is effective in alleviating the implant-related infections. Relative to that of a positive control group, the experimental group (vancomycin treatment group) showed significant higher bone volume, more intact bony structure with only mild inflammatory cell infiltration. This newly designed hydrogel can effectively deliver antibiotics to reduce bacterial colonization and biofilm formation on the implant surface. The remaining challenges will be to confer different potent antibacterial medications with good biocompatibility and fulfill the safety, practical and economic criteria for future clinical translation.
Potential of Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites in Sandwich Structures: A Review on Its Mechanical Properties
Authors: Alsubari S. , Zuhri M. Y. M. , Sapuan S. M. , Ishak M. R. , Ilyas R. A. , Asyraf M. R. M.
Published: January 2021

The interest in using natural fiber reinforced composites is now at its highest. Numerous studies have been conducted due to their positive benefits related to environmental issues. Even though they have limitations for some load requirements, this drawback has been countered through fiber treatment and hybridization. Sandwich structure, on the other hand, is a combination of two or more individual components with different properties, which when joined together can result in better performance. Sandwich structures have been used in a wide range of industrial material applications. They are known to be lightweight and good at absorbing energy, providing superior strength and stiffness-to-weight ratios, and offering opportunities, through design integration, to remove some components from the core element. Today, many industries use composite sandwich structures in a range of components. Through good design of the core structure, one can maximize the strength properties, with a low density. However, the application of natural fiber composites in sandwich structures is still minimal. Therefore, this paper reviewed the possibility of using a natural fiber composite in sandwich structure applications. It addressed the mechanical properties and energy-absorbing characteristics of natural fiber-based sandwich structures tested under various compression loads. The results and potential areas of improvement to fit into a wide range of engineering applications were discussed.
Qur’anic Educational Philosophy: Foundational Principles of Education in Islam’s Holiest Text
Authors: Stimpson Brady , Calvert Isaac
Published: January 2021

This study enumerates the principles of education explicitly taught in the text of the Qur’an. As Islam’s only undisputed source of infallible divine direction, the educational principles contained therein constitute a divinely-sanctioned pedagogy. In recent years, much has been said in academic circles about the dangers of essentializing Islam. If academia is to reframe its questions about Islamic educational philosophy to account for its many interpretations, however, a greater understanding of the common text being interpreted, namely, the Qur’an, is essential. Understanding Islamic education in the context of its most central text is lacking, though, as few studies have provided a thorough textual analysis of educational philosophy within the Qur’an itself. To this end, we undertook a systematic linguistic analysis of the Qur’an in its entirety in both the original Arabic and various English translations. From these analyses, we found three main themes, including: first, independent, inferential reasoning; second, orthopractic teleology; and third, memorization and the spoken word. The unique contribution of this article is to provide a strong foundation of strictly Qur’anic educational philosophy upon which further hermeneutical research can investigate how that philosophy has been interpreted and practiced by Islam’s various denominations throughout its rich history.
An Efficient Photomixer Based Slot Fed Terahertz Dielectric Resonator Antenna
Authors: Li Xiaohang , Yin Wenfei , Khamas Salam
Published: January 2021

A slot fed terahertz dielectric resonator antenna driven by an optimized photomixer is proposed, and the interaction of the laser and photomixer is studied. It is demonstrated that in a continuous wave terahertz photomixing scheme, the generated THz power is proportional to the 4th power of the surface electric field of photocondutive layer. Consequently, the optical to THz conversion efficiency of the proposed photomixer has an enhancement factor of 487. This is due to the fact that the surface electric field of the proposed photomixer with a 2D-Photonic Crystal (PhC) superstrate has been improved from 2.1 to 9.9 V/m, which represents a substantial improvement. Moreover, the electrically thick Gallium-Arsenide (GaAs) supporting substrate of the device has been truncated to create a dielectric resonator antenna (DRA) that offers a typical radiation efficiency of more than 90%. By employing a traditional coplanar strip (CPS) biasing network, the matching efficiency has been improved to 24.4%. Therefore, the total efficiency has been considerably improved due to the enhancements in the laser-to-THz conversion, as well as radiation and matching efficiencies. Further, the antenna gain has been improved to 9dBi at the presence of GaAs superstrate. Numerical comparisons show that the proposed antenna can achieve a high gain with relatively smaller dimensions compared with traditional THz antenna with Si lens.
Quality Control Methods for Advanced Metering Infrastructure Data
Authors: Garrison Eric , New Joshua
Published: January 2021

While urban-scale building energy modeling is becoming increasingly common, it currently lacks standards, guidelines, or empirical validation against measured data. Empirical validation necessary to enable best practices is becoming increasingly tractable. The growing prevalence of advanced metering infrastructure has led to significant data regarding the energy consumption within individual buildings, but is something utilities and countries are still struggling to analyze and use wisely. In partnership with the Electric Power Board of Chattanooga, Tennessee, a crude OpenStudio/EnergyPlus model of over 178,000 buildings has been created and used to compare simulated energy against actual, 15-min, whole-building electrical consumption of each building. In this study, classifying building type is treated as a use case for quantifying performance associated with smart meter data. This article attempts to provide guidance for working with advanced metering infrastructure for buildings related to: quality control, pathological data classifications, statistical metrics on performance, a methodology for classifying building types, and assess accuracy. Advanced metering infrastructure was used to collect whole-building electricity consumption for 178,333 buildings, define equations for common data issues (missing values, zeros, and spiking), propose a new method for assigning building type, and empirically validate gaps between real buildings and existing prototypes using industry-standard accuracy metrics.