bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Brief Review on Factors Affecting the Tribological Interaction between Human Skin and Different Textile Materials
Authors: D’Souza Brian , Kasar Ashish K. , Jones Jaycob , Skeete Andre , Rader Lane , Kumar Pankaj , Menezes Pradeep L.
Published: March 2022

The application of tribology is not just limited to mechanical components of engineering systems. As a matter of fact, the understanding of friction and wear can be applied to everyday life. One of the important fields is skin tribology, as human skin interacts with various surfaces of different materials. This paper focuses on the friction behavior of the skin when in contact with the fabric and other materials in relative motion. The excessive friction at the fabric-skin interface may lead to discomfort, blistering, chafing, and pressure ulcers especially in athletes who experience higher friction due to rapid movement for an extended period. Other than understanding the fabric properties, it is equally important to understand the structure and properties of the skin to evaluate its function and interaction with the different fabric materials. The identification of the contributing factors of skin friction can help to design suitable fabric materials. An overview of skin functions and the factors that affect the friction on the skin–textile material interface are presented in this review article.
Mechanism Analysis of Rock Failure Process under High-Voltage Electropulse: Analytical Solution and Simulation
Authors: Rao Pingping , Ouyang Peihao , Nimbalkar Sanjay , Chen Qingsheng , Cui Jifei , Wu Zhilin
Published: March 2022

This work aims to investigate and analyse the mechanism of rock failure under high-voltage electropulses in order to evaluate and increase the efficiency of high-voltage pulse technology in geological well drilling, tunnel boring, and other geotechnical engineering applications. To this end, this paper discusses the equivalent circuit of electric pulse rock breaking, the model of shock wave in electro channel plasma, and, particularly, the model of rock failure in order to disclose the rock failure process when exposed to high-voltage electropulse. This article uses granite as an example to present an analytical approach for predicting the mechanical behaviour of high-voltage electropulses and to analyse the damage that occurs. A numerical model based on equivalent circuit, shock wave model, and elasto-brittle failure criterion is developed for granite under electropulse to further examine the granite failure process. Under the conditions described in this study, and using granite as an example, the granite is impacted by a discharge device (Marx generator) with an initial voltage U0 that is 10 kV and a capacitance F that is 5 µF before it begins to degrade at about 40 µs after discharge, with the current reaching its peak at approximately 50 µs. The shock wave pressure then attains a peak at about 70 µs. Dense short cracks form around granite and the dominant cracks grow to an average length of about 20 cm at around 200 µs. The crack width dcr is predicted to be approximately 1.6 mm. This study detects dense cracks in a few centimetres surrounding the borehole, while around seven dominant cracks expand outward. The distribution of the length of the dominating cracks can be inhomogeneous because of the spatial heterogeneity of granite’s tensile strength, however the heterogeneity has an insignificant effect on the crack growth rate, total cracked area, or the number of main cracks. The mechanism of rock failure under electropulse can be well supported by the findings of numerical simulations and analytical studies.
Hydration Processes of Four-Component Binders Containing a Low Amount of Cement
Authors: Wilińska Iwona , Pacewska Barbara , Antonovič Valentin
Published: March 2022

Results of research on hydration of four-component binders containing very high amounts of supplementary cementitious materials were presented. The samples were composed of blended pozzolana (a mix of conventional fly ash and spent aluminosilicate catalyst), cement (about 20 wt.% in the binder) and Ca(OH)2. Spent aluminosilicate catalyst was proposed as activating component which can improve properties of low-cement blends, while the role of Ca(OH)2 was to enhance pozzolanic reaction. Early and later hydration periods of such blends were investigated by calorimetry, TG/DTG, FTIR and X-ray diffraction. Initial setting time as well as compressive strength were also determined. It was concluded that enhancement of reactivity and improvement of properties of fly ash–cement binders are possible by replacing a part of fly ash with more active fine-grained pozzolana and introducing additional amounts of Ca(OH)2. The spent catalyst is mainly responsible for accelerating action during the first hours of hydration and for progress of early pozzolanic reaction. Fly ash develops its activity over time, thus synergic effect influences the later properties of composites. Samples containing blended pozzolana exhibit shorter initial setting times and higher compressive strength, as well as faster consumption of Ca(OH)2 compared to the reference. Investigated mixtures seem to be promising as “green” binders, alternatives to cement, after optimizing their compositions or additional activating procedure.
Early Immune Response in Foreign Body Reaction Is Implant/Material Specific
Authors: Söhling Nicolas , Ondreka Muriel , Kontradowitz Kerstin , Reichel Tobias , Marzi Ingo , Henrich Dirk
Published: March 2022

The design of novel biomaterials should directly influence the host-immune system and steer it towards high biocompatibility. To date, new implants/materials have been tested for biocompatibility in vitro in cell cultures and in vivo in animal models. The current methods do not reflect reality (cell cultures) or are very time-consuming and deliver results only after weeks (animal model). In this proof-of-concept study, the suitability of a Whole Blood Stimulation Assay (WBSA) in combination with a Protein Profiler Array (PPA), as a readily available and cost-effective screening tool, was investigated. Three different biomaterials based on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), calcium sulphate/-carbonate (CS) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) were exposed to native whole blood from three volunteers and subsequently screened with a PPA. Individual reproducible protein profiles could be detected for all three materials after 24 h of incubation. The most intense reaction resulted from the use of PLGA, followed by CS. If even marginal differences in implants can be reflected in protein profiles, the combination of WBSA and PPA could serve as an early biocompatibility screening tool in the development of novel biomaterials. This may also lead to a reduction in costs and the amount of animal testing required.
Wide-Oblique-Incident-Angle Stable Polarization-Insensitive Ultra-Wideband Metamaterial Perfect Absorber for Visible Optical Wavelength Applications
Authors: Hakim Mohammad Lutful , Alam Touhidul , Islam Md. Shabiul , Salaheldeen M. M. , Almalki Sami H. A. , Baharuddin Mohd Hafiz , Alsaif Haitham , Islam Mohammad Tariqul
Published: March 2022

Metamaterial absorbers are very attractive due to their significant absorption behavior at optical wavelengths, which can be implemented for energy harvesting, plasmonic sensors, imaging, optical modulators, photovoltaic detectors, etc. This paper presents a numerical study of an ultra-wide-band double square ring (DSR) metamaterial absorber (MMA) for the complete visible optical wavelength region, which is designed with a three-layer (tungsten-silicon dioxide-tungsten) substrate material. Due to the symmetricity, a polarization-insensitive absorption is obtained for both transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) modes by simulation. An absorption above 92.2% and an average absorption of 97% are achieved in the visible optical wavelength region. A peak absorption of 99.99% is achieved at 521.83 nm. A wide range of oblique incident angle stabilities is found for stable absorption properties. A similar absorption is found for different banding angles, which may occur due to external forces during the installation of the absorber. The absorption is calculated by the interference theory (IT) model, and the polarization conversion ratio (PCR) is also validated to verify the perfect MMA. The electric field and magnetic field of the structure analysis are performed to understand the absorption property of the MMA. The presented MMA may be used in various applications such as solar cells, light detection, the biomedical field, sensors, and imaging.
Mixed Convection inside a Duct with an Open Trapezoidal Cavity Equipped with Two Discrete Heat Sources and Moving Walls
Authors: Mebarek-Oudina Fateh , Laouira Hanane , Hussein Ahmed Kadhim , Omri Mohamed , Abderrahmane Aissa , Kolsi Lioua , Biswal Uddhaba
Published: March 2022

The current research presents a numerical investigation of the mixed convection inside a horizontal rectangular duct combined with an open trapezoidal cavity. The region in the bottom wall of the cavity is heated by using two discrete heat sources. The cold airflow enters the duct horizontally at a fixed velocity and a constant temperature. All the other walls of the duct and the cavity are adiabatic. Throughout this study, four various cases were investigated depending on the driven walls. The effects of the Richardson number and Reynolds number ratio are studied under various cases related to the lid-driven sidewalls. The results are presented in terms of the flow and thermal fields and the average Nusselt number. The yielded data show that the average Nusselt number rises as the Richardson number and Reynolds number ratio increases. Furthermore, the Reynolds number ratio and the movement of the cavity sidewall(s) have a significant effect on the velocity and temperature contours. By the end of the study, it is shown that the maximum rates of heat transfer are related to Case 1 where the left sidewall moves downward and heater 2, which is placed near the left sidewall.
The Impact of Working Capital Management on Corporate Performance in Small–Medium Enterprises in the Visegrad Group
Authors: Mazanec Jaroslav
Published: March 2022

Working capital management is a crucial pillar in corporate finance. The performance of transport companies can be improved by efficient working capital management through cash management, inventory management, and receivables management. This approach aims at sustainable growth of transport companies in international competition. The main aim of the article is to identify statistically significant variables from working capital management describing liquidity and activity, with a focus on corporate performance in the Visegrad Group countries. We designed models for small and medium-sized enterprises for each member state of the Visegrad Group and a universal model for the entire region. We applied a comprehensive model design process using multi-criteria linear regression, mainly on indicators from the Amadea financial statements in IBM SPSS 25. We described the overall sample using descriptive statistics, identify outliers, identify multicollinearity, and design models, and compared with other models describing return on assets. The added value is the explanation of the impact of working capital management on the performance of small and medium-sized transport companies in the Visegrad Group, which make up most companies in this sector. These findings help identify key aspects of working capital management that contribute to business performance. The paper presents a detailed output for future research into the role of working capital in corporate management.
Dynamic Uncertainty Study of Multi-Center Location and Route Optimization for Medicine Logistics Company
Authors: Yuan Zhiyuan , Gao Jie
Published: March 2022

Multi-center location of pharmaceutical logistics is the focus of pharmaceutical logistics research, and the dynamic uncertainty of pharmaceutical logistics multi-center location is a difficult point of research. In order to reduce the risk and cost of multi-enterprise, multi-category, large-volume, high-efficiency, and nationwide centralized medicine distribution, this study explores the best solution for planning medicine delivery for the medicine logistics. In this paper, based on the idea of big data, comprehensive consideration is given to uncertainties in center location, medicine type, medicine chemical characteristics, cost of medicine quality control (refrigeration and monitoring costs), delivery timeliness, and other factors. On this basis, a multi-center location- and route-optimization model for a medicine logistics company under dynamic uncertainty is constructed. The accuracy of the algorithm is improved by hybridizing the fuzzy C-means algorithm, sequential quadratic programming algorithm, and variable neighborhood search algorithm to combine the advantages of each. Finally, the model and the algorithm are verified through multi-enterprise, multi-category, high-volume, high-efficiency, and nationwide centralized medicine distribution cases, and various combinations of the three algorithms and several rival algorithms are compared and analyzed. Compared with rival algorithms, this hybrid algorithm has higher accuracy in solving multi-center location path optimization problem under the dynamic uncertainty in pharmaceutical logistics.
Efficacy of Listening to Music on Pain Reduction during Colposcopy-Directed Cervical Biopsy: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Pradit Lalita , Tantipalakorn Charuwan , Charoenkwan Kittipat , Suprasert Prapaporn , Srisomboon Jatupol , Muangmool Tanarat
Published: March 2022

Background and Objective: To investigate the efficacy of listening to music on pain reduction during colposcopy-directed cervical biopsy (CDB). Materials and Methods: From June 2020 to November 2021, 240 women undergoing CDB were enrolled. The participants were randomized into three groups: Group 1, colposcopic examination while wearing headphones and listening to music; Group 2, colposcopy while wearing headphones but not listening to music; Group 3 (control group), colposcopy while neither listening to music nor wearing headphones. All participating women completed a 10 cm visual analog scale for subjective pain at three time points: baseline, immediately after cervical biopsy, and 15 min after the procedure. The primary endpoint was the biopsy pain score. Result: Of the 240 women, a sample size of 80 was randomly assigned per group. The clinical–pathological and procedure-related characteristics of the participants in all groups were similar. The mean baseline pain score between each group was not significantly different (2.83 in the music group, 2.54 in group 2, and 2.94 in the control group, p = 0.47). There were no significant differences between each group in terms of mean biopsy pain score (4.21 in the music group, 4.24 in group 2, and 4.30 in the control group, p = 0.98). The differences in changes between the baseline pain score and the biopsy pain score were not statistically significant (1.39 in the music group, 1.70 in group 2, and 1.36 in the control group, p = 0.69). In the multiple comparison analysis, the differences in changes between the biopsy pain score and the baseline pain score between each group were also not statistically significant. There were no complications with the intervention observed. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that there was no beneficial effect of listening to music on pain reduction during colposcopy-directed cervical biopsies.
Metformin: Sex/Gender Differences in Its Uses and Effects—Narrative Review
Authors: Ilias Ioannis , Rizzo Manfredi , Zabuliene Lina
Published: March 2022

Metformin (MTF) occupies a major and fundamental position in the therapeutic management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Gender differences in some effects and actions of MTF have been reported. Women are usually prescribed lower MTF doses compared to men and report more gastrointestinal side effects. The incidence of cardiovascular events in women on MTF has been found to be lower to that of men on MTF. Despite some promising results with MTF regarding pregnancy rates in women with PCOS, the management of gestational diabetes, cancer prevention or adjunctive cancer treatment and COVID-19, most robust meta-analyses have yet to confirm such beneficial effects.
Impact of a Transient and Asymmetrical Distribution of the Electric Arc on the Solidification Conditions of the Ingot in the VAR Process
Authors: Delzant Pierre-Olivier , Chapelle Pierre , Jardy Alain , Matveichev Alexey , Millet Yvon
Published: March 2022

Vacuum Arc Remelting is an important method of processing reactive and refractory liquid metal alloys, including titanium and zirconium alloys. Recent measurements of the electric arc dynamics under the presence of a time-varying magnetic field during an industrial melt of a Ti64 alloy provided evidence of the existence of an ensemble arc motion. Such motion is responsible for transient and non-axisymmetric inputs of electric current and energy at the top surface of the remelted ingot. The present work is an attempt to evaluate, using a simplified numerical simulation approach, to what extent the solidification conditions of the VAR ingot and, consequently, the quality of the final product, may be affected by this phenomenon. The reported results indicate that, under the worst case conditions, the relative vanadium segregation in the solidified ingot can reach values as high as 12.5%.
Coriolis Vibratory MEMS Gyro Drive Axis Control with Proxy-Based Sliding Mode Controller
Authors: Ünsal Öztürk Derya , Erkmen Aydan M.
Published: March 2022

MEMS (micro electrical mechanical systems) gyroscopes are used to measure the angular rate in several applications. The performance of a MEMS gyroscope is dependent on more than one factor, such as mechanical imperfections, environmental condition-dependent parameter variations, and mechanical–thermal noises. These factors should be compensated to improve the performance of the MEMS gyroscope. To overcome this compensation problem, a closed-loop control system is one of the solutions. In this paper, a closed-loop control system is implemented. However, other than previously applied methods, a proxy-based sliding mode control approach is proposed, which is a novelty for the control of the MEMS gyroscope drive axis since, to the best of our knowledge, this method has not been applied to gyroscope control problems. Proxy-based sliding mode controllers do not suffer from the chattering phenomenon. Additionally, we do not need an exact system model to implement the control law. In particular, we are investigating, in this paper, the compatibility and performance of a proxy-based sliding mode controller for a closed-loop gyroscope implementation. We show that our proposed method provides robustness against model uncertainties and disturbances and is easy to implement. We also compare the performance of classical sliding mode controllers and proxy-based sliding mode controllers, which demonstrate the evident superiority of the proxy-based controller in our implementation results. Simulation results show that system error and gyroscope total error reduced by 49.52% and 12.03%, respectively, compared to the sliding mode controller. Simulation results are supported with the experimental data, and experimental results clearly demonstrate the superiority of the proxy-based sliding mode controller.
Porcine and Chicken Intestinal Epithelial Cell Models for Screening Phytogenic Feed Additives—Chances and Limitations in Use as Alternatives to Feeding Trials
Authors: Marks Hannah , Grześkowiak Łukasz , Martinez-Vallespin Beatriz , Dietz Heiko , Zentek Jürgen
Published: March 2022

Numerous bioactive plant additives have shown various positive effects in pigs and chickens. The demand for feed additives of natural origin has increased rapidly in recent years to support the health of farm animals and thus minimize the need for antibiotics and other drugs. Although only in vivo experiments can fully represent their effect on the organism, the establishment of reliable in vitro methods is becoming increasingly important in the goal of reducing the use of animals in experiments. The use of cell models requires strict control of the experimental conditions so that reliability and reproducibility can be achieved. In particular, the intestinal porcine epithelial cell line IPEC-J2 represents a promising model for the development of new additives. It offers the possibility to investigate antioxidative, antimicrobial, anti- or pro-proliferative and antiviral effects. However, the use of IPEC-J2 is limited due to its purely epithelial origin and some differences in its morphology and functionality compared to the in vivo situation. With regard to chickens, the development of a reliable intestinal epithelial cell model has attracted the attention of researchers in recent years. Although a promising model was presented lately, further studies are needed to enable the standardized use of a chicken cell line for testing phytogenic feed additives. Finally, co-cultivation of the currently available cell lines with other cell lines and the development of organoids will open up further application possibilities. Special emphasis was given to the IPEC-J2 cell model. Therefore, all publications that investigated plant derived compounds in this cell line were considered. The section on chicken cell lines is based on publications describing the development of chicken intestinal epithelial cell models.
Synergies between Heat Disturbance and Inoculum Size Promote the Invasion Potential of a Bacterial Pathogen in Soil
Authors: Gong Xin , Zhang Ziyun , Wang Hui , Li Huixin , Hu Feng , Liu Manqiang , Jiang Lin , Chen Xiaoyun , Ma Chao
Published: March 2022

Inoculum size contributes to the invasion potential of pathogens in the soil. However, the role of inoculum size in determining the fate of pathogens in disturbed soils remains unclear. Herein, we investigated the survival rates of a bacterial pathogen, Ralstonia solanacearum, in soils subjected to heat as a simulated disturbance. Our results revealed that heating increased soil resource availability but reduced resource differentiation between R. solanacearum and indigenous bacterial communities. In both non-heated and heated soils, invader abundances increased with inoculum size, with a greater magnitude in heated soils. Inoculum size and heat-induced increases in soil-available carbon and nitrogen best predicted invasion success. Altogether, our findings suggested that the invasion by soil pathogens could be predicted by synergies between heat perturbation and inoculum size.
Topical Administration of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Accelerates the Healing of Chronic Diabetic Foot Ulcers through Modifications of Infection, Angiogenesis, Macrophage Phenotype and Neutrophil Response
Authors: Argañaraz Aybar Julio Nicolás , Ortiz Mayor Sonia , Olea Luis , Garcia Juan José , Nisoria Sebastian , Kolling Yanina , Melian Constanza , Rachid Mirta , Torres Dimani Rafael , Werenitzky Cecilia , Lorca Cecilia , Salva Susana , Gobbato Nadia , Villena Julio , Valdez Juan C.
Published: March 2022

This work aimed to evaluate the adjuvant treatment to surgical debridement using topical applications of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ATCC 10241 cultures in complicated diabetic foot ulcers as compared to diabetic foot ulcers receiving surgical wound debridement. A randomised controlled trial was performed involving 22 outpatients with complicated diabetic foot ulcers that either received surgical debridement (SuDe, n = 12) or surgical debridement plus topical applications of L. plantarum cultures (SuDe + Lp, n = 10) every week during a 12 week treatment period. Compared to patients receiving SuDe, patients treated with SuDe + Lp exhibited significantly increased fibroplasia and angiogenesis, as determined by Masson’s trichrome staining and the study of CD34 cells, α-smooth muscle actin to semi-quantify vascular area, number of vessels and endothelial cells. In addition, a promotion of the polarisation of macrophages from M1 (CD68) to M2 (CD163) phenotype was observed in SuDe + Lp patients with remarkable differences in the tissue localisation. Bacterial counts were significantly diminished in the SuDe + Lp group compared to the SuDe group. Ex vivo assays, using polymorphonuclears isolated from peripheral blood of patients with diabetes and healthy individuals and challenged with Staphylococcus aureus demonstrated that the addition of L. plantarum supernatants significantly improved the phagocytosis of these cells. L. plantarum-secreted components increased the neutrophils bactericidal activity and regulated the netosis induced by S. aureus. At day 49, the average wound area reduction with SuDe + Lp was 73.5% compared with 45.8% for SuDe (p < 0.05). More patients progressed to closure with SuDe + Lp compared with SuDe treatment, indicating the ability of L. plantarum to accelerate the healing. At day 60, 60% of patients treated with SuDe + Lp achieved 100% of wound area reduction compared with 40% for SuDe. We propose that SuDe + Lp could be an effective adjuvant to surgical debridement when SuDe is not satisfactory for patients with complicated diabetic foot ulcers. The treatment is cheap and easy to apply and the product is easy to obtain.
Three-Dimensional Pinecone-like Binder-Free Pt–TiO2 Nanorods on Ti Mesh Structures: Synthesis, Characterization and Electroactivity towards Ethanol Oxidation
Authors: Mohammadi Naser , Abrego-Martinez Juan Carlos , Mohamedi Mohamed
Published: March 2022

We report here the synthesis of binderless and template-less three-dimensional (3D) pinecone-shaped Pt/TiO2/Ti mesh structure. The TiO2 hydrothermally synthesized onto Ti mesh is composed of a mixture of flower-like nanorods and vertically aligned bar-shaped structures, whereas Pt film grown by pulsed laser deposition displays a smooth surface. XRD analyses reveal an average crystallite size of 41.4 nm and 68.5 nm of the TiO2 nanorods and Pt, respectively. In H2SO4 solution, the platinum oxide formation at the Pt/TiO2/Ti mesh electrode is 180 mV more negative than that at the Pt/Ti mesh electrode, indicating that TiO2 provides oxygeneous species at lower potentials, which will facilitate the removal of CO-like intermediates and accelerate an ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). Indeed, the Pt/TiO2/Ti mesh catalyst exhibits current activity of 1.19 mA towards an EOR at a remarkably superior rate of 4.4 times that of the Pt/Ti mesh electrode (0.27 mA). Moreover, the presence of TiO2 as a support to Pt delivers a steady-state current of 2.1 mA, with an increment in durability of 6.6 times compared to Pt/Ti mesh (0.32 mA). Pt is chosen here as a benchmark catalyst and we believe that with catalysts that perform better than Pt, such 3D pinecone structures can be useful for a variety of catalytic or photoelectrochemical reactions.
Iridium(I)-Catalyzed Isoindolinone-Directed Branched-Selective Aromatic C–H Alkylation with Simple Alkenes
Authors: Xiong Maoqian , Shu Yuhang , Tang Jie , Yang Fan , Xing Dong
Published: March 2022

We report an iridium(I)-catalyzed branched-selective C–H alkylation of N-arylisoindolinones with simple alkenes as the alkylating agents. The amide carbonyl group of the isoindolinone motif acts as the directing group to assist the ortho C–H activation of the N-aryl ring. With this atom-economic and highly branched-selective protocol, an array of biologically relevant N-arylisoindolinones were obtained in good yields. Asymmetric control was achieved with up to 87:13 er when a BiPhePhos-like chiral ligand was employed.
Rotational Spectrum and Conformational Analysis of Perillartine: Insights into the Structure–Sweetness Relationship
Authors: Juárez Gabriela , Sanz-Novo Miguel , Alonso José L. , Alonso Elena R. , León Iker
Published: March 2022

We used high-resolution rotational spectroscopy coupled to a laser ablation source to study the conformational panorama of perillartine, a solid synthetic sweetener. Four conformers were identified under the isolation conditions of the supersonic expansion, showing that all of them present an E configuration of the C=N group with respect to the double bond of the ring. The observed structures were verified against Shallenberger–Acree–Kier’s sweetness theory to shed light on the structure–sweetness relationship for this particular oxime, highlighting a deluge of possibilities to bind the receptor.
In Vitro Pharmacological Screening of Essential Oils from Baccharis parvidentata and Lippia origanoides Growing in Brazil
Authors: Perera Wilmer H. , Scherbakov Alexander M. , Buravchenko Galina I. , Mikhaevich Ekaterina I. , Leitão Suzana Guimarães , Cos Paul , Shchekotikhin Andrey E. , Monzote Lianet , Setzer William N.
Published: March 2022

In this study, the in vitro antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antiproliferative and cytotoxic activities of essential oil from Baccharis parvidentata Malag. (EO-Bp) and Lippia origanoides Kunth (EO-Lo) were explored. The relevant effects were observed against the parasitic protozoans Plasmodium falciparum, Trypanosoma cruzi, Trypanosoma brucei and Leishmania amazonensis (ranging 0.6 to 39.7 µg/mL) and malignant MCF-7, MCF-7/HT, 22Rv1, and A431 cell lines (ranging 6.1 to 31.5 µg/mL). In parallel, EO-Bp showed better selective indexes in comparison with EO-Lo against peritoneal macrophages from BALB/c mice and MRC-5 cell line. In conclusion, EO-Lo is known to show a wide range of health benefits that could be added as another potential use of this oil with the current study. In the case of EO-Bp, the wide spectrum of its activities against protozoal parasites and malignant cells, as well as its selectivity in comparison with non-malignant cells, could suggest an interesting candidate for further tests as a new therapeutic alternative.
Development of an LC–DAD–MS-Based Method for the Analysis of Hydroxyanthracene Derivatives in Food Supplements and Plant Materials
Authors: Loschi Francesca , Faggian Marta , Sut Stefania , Ferrarese Irene , Maccari Erica , Peron Gregorio , Dall’Acqua Stefano
Published: March 2022

Products based on plants containing hydroxyanthracene derivatives (HADs)—such as Rheum, Cassia, and Aloe species—are widely used in food supplements or nutraceuticals due to their laxative effects. A more restricted control of HAD contents in food supplements has been implemented by EU Regulation 2021/468, in order to increase the safety of these preparations. Due to their toxicity, aloin A, aloin B, aloe emodin, emodin, and the synthetic derivative danthron have been listed as prohibited substances in food supplements, being tolerated in amounts < 1 mg kg−1 in marketed products. In this work, we report the development of a sensitive and fast LC–DAD–MS-based procedure for the determination of these five compounds in food supplements and plant materials or extracts. The entire procedure includes a simple sample preparation step, where target analytes are concentrated by means of solvent extraction and evaporative concentration (solid samples), or by lyophilisation (liquid samples). The average LOQ of 0.10 mg/L, LOD of 0.03 mg/L, accuracy, and precision with CVs below 12.72 were obtained for the studied analytes. This method is suitable for assessing the compliance of commercial products and raw materials with EU Regulation 2021/468. Furthermore, the proposed method can represent a starting point for the development of a unique and standardised analytical approach for the determination of other HADs under the attention of EU authorities.
The Effect of Diet and Lifestyle on the Course of Diabetic Retinopathy—A Review of the Literature
Authors: Bryl Anna , Mrugacz Małgorzata , Falkowski Mariusz , Zorena Katarzyna
Published: March 2022

Diabetes is a major social problem. As shown by epidemiological studies, the world incidence of diabetes is increasing and so is the number of people suffering from its complications. Therefore, it is important to determine possible preventive tools. In the prevention of diabetic retinopathy, it is essential to control glycemia, lipid profile and blood pressure. This can be done not only by pharmacological treatment, but first of all by promoting a healthy lifestyle, changing dietary habits and increasing physical activity. In our work, we present a review of the literature to show that physical exercise and an adequate diet can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy.
Vitamin C Plasma Levels Associated with Inflammatory Biomarkers, CRP and RDW: Results from the NHANES 2003–2006 Surveys
Authors: Crook Jennifer Marie , Horgas Ann L. , Yoon Saunjoo L. , Grundmann Oliver , Johnson-Mallard Versie
Published: March 2022

Although undisputed for its anti-inflammatory and immune system boosting properties, vitamin C remains an inconsistently investigated nutrient in the United States. However, subclinical inadequacies may partly explain increased inflammation and decreased immune function within the population. This secondary analysis cross-sectional study used the 2003–2006 NHANES surveys to identify more clearly the association between plasma vitamin C and clinical biomarkers of acute and chronic inflammation C-reactive protein (CRP) and red cell distribution width (RDW). From plasma vitamin C levels separated into five defined categories (deficiency, hypovitaminosis, inadequate, adequate, and saturating), ANOVA tests identified significant differences in means in all insufficient vitamin C categories (deficiency, hypovitaminosis, and inadequate) and both CRP and RDW in 7607 study participants. There were also statistically significant differences in means between sufficient plasma vitamin C levels (adequate and saturating categories) and CRP. Significant differences were not identified between adequate and saturating plasma vitamin C levels and RDW. Although inadequate levels of vitamin C may not exhibit overt signs or symptoms of deficiency, differences in mean levels identified between inflammatory biomarkers suggest a closer examination of those considered at risk for inflammatory-driven diseases. Likewise, the subclinical levels of inflammation presented in this study provide evidence to support ranges for further clinical inflammation surveillance.
Creatine Supplementation for Muscle Growth: A Scoping Review of Randomized Clinical Trials from 2012 to 2021
Authors: Wu Shih-Hao , Chen Kuan-Lin , Hsu Chin , Chen Hang-Cheng , Chen Jian-Yu , Yu Sheng-Yan , Shiu Yi-Jie
Published: March 2022

Creatine supplementation is the most popular ergonomic aid for athletes in recent years and is used for improving sport performance and muscle growth. However, creatine supplementation is not always effective in all populations. To address these discrepancies, numerous studies have examined the use of creatine supplementation for muscle growth. This scoping review aimed to investigate the effects of creatine supplementation for muscle growth in various populations, in which Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review framework is used to present the findings. For this study, we performed a systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases for theses and articles published between 2012 and 2021. A manual search of the reference lists of the uncovered studies was conducted and an expert panel was consulted. Two reviewers screened the articles for eligibility according to the inclusion criteria. Methodological quality was assessed using the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI’s) quality assessment tool. A total of 16 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were finally included. All the authors extracted key data and descriptively analyzed the data. Thematic analysis was used to categorize the results into themes. Three major themes related to muscle growth were generated: (i) subjects of creatine supplementation—muscle growth is more effective in healthy young subjects than others; (ii) training of subjects—sufficient training is important in all populations; (iii) future direction and recommendation of creatine supplementation for muscle growth—injury prevention and utilization in medical practice. Overall, creatine is an efficient form of supplementation for muscle growth in the healthy young population with adequate training in a variety of dosage strategies and athletic activities. However, more well-designed, long-term RCTs with larger sample sizes are needed in older and muscular disease-related populations to definitively determine the effects of creatine supplementation on muscle growth in these other populations.
The Effectiveness of Web-Based Interventions to Promote Health Behaviour Change in Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: de Sousa Daniela , Fogel Adriana , Azevedo José , Padrão Patrícia
Published: March 2022

Although web-based interventions are attractive to researchers and users, the evidence about their effectiveness in the promotion of health behaviour change is still limited. Our aim was to review the effectiveness of web-based interventions used in health behavioural change in adolescents regarding physical activity, eating habits, tobacco and alcohol use, sexual behaviour, and quality of sleep. Studies published from 2016 till the search was run (May-to-June 2021) were included if they were experimental or quasi-experimental studies, pre-post-test studies, clinical trials, or randomized controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of web-based intervention in promoting behaviour change in adolescents regarding those health behaviours. The risk of bias assessment was performed by using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP)—Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Fourteen studies were included. Most were in a school setting, non-probabilistic and relatively small samples. All had a short length of follow-up and were theory driven. Thirteen showed significant positive findings to support web-based interventions’ effectiveness in promoting health behaviour change among adolescents but were classified as low evidence quality. Although this review shows that web-based interventions may contribute to health behaviour change among adolescents, these findings rely on low-quality evidence, so it is urgent to test these interventions in larger controlled trials with long-term maintenance.
Weight Maintenance after Dietary Weight Loss: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effectiveness of Behavioural Intensive Intervention
Authors: Flore Giovanna , Preti Antonio , Carta Mauro Giovanni , Deledda Andrea , Fosci Michele , Nardi Antonio Egidio , Loviselli Andrea , Velluzzi Fernanda
Published: March 2022

After a low-calorie diet, only 25% of patients succeed in maintaining the result of weight loss for a long time. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to explore whether patients undergoing intensive intervention during the maintenance phase have a greater preservation of the weight achieved during the previous slimming phase than controls. A bibliographic search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases for clinical trials and randomised, controlled trials investigating the role of choice in weight-loss-maintenance strategies. Only studies with a follow-up of at least 12 months were considered. A total of eight studies, for a total of 1454 patients, was identified, each comparing a group that followed a more intensive protocol to a control group. Our metanalysis highlighted that an intensive approach even in the maintenance phase could be important to ensure greater success in the phase following the weight-loss period. However, it should be pointed out that the improvement was not so different from the trend of the respective controls, with a non-statistically significant mean difference of the effect size (0.087; 95% CI −0.016 to 0.190 p = 0.098). This finding, along with the observation of a weight regain in half of the selected studies, suggests this is a long work that has to be started within the weight-loss phase and reinforced during the maintenance phase. The problem of weight control in patients with obesity should be understood as a process of education to a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet to be integrated in the context of a multidisciplinary approach.
Mediterranean Diet: A Tool to Break the Relationship of Atrial Fibrillation with the Metabolic Syndrome and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Biccirè Flavio Giuseppe , Bucci Tommaso , Menichelli Danilo , Cammisotto Vittoria , Pignatelli Pasquale , Carnevale Roberto , Pastori Daniele
Published: March 2022

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common supraventricular arrhythmia associated with increased cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. As multiple factors may predispose the onset of AF, the prevention of the occurrence, recurrence and complications of this arrhythmia is still challenging. In particular, a high prevalence of cardio-metabolic comorbidities such as the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and in its hepatic manifestation, the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), have been described in the AF population. A common pathogenetic mechanism linking AF, MetS and NAFLD is represented by oxidative stress. For this reason, in the past decades, numerous studies have investigated the effect of different foods/nutrients with antioxidant properties for the prevention of, and their therapeutic role is still unclear. In this narrative comprehensive review, we will summarize current evidence on (1) the association between AF, MetS and NAFLD (2) the antioxidant role of Mediterranean Diet and its components for the prevention of AF and (3) the effects of Mediterranean Diet on MetS components and NAFLD.
The Effect of Artificial Sweeteners Use on Sweet Taste Perception and Weight Loss Efficacy: A Review
Authors: Wilk Klara , Korytek Wiktoria , Pelczyńska Marta , Moszak Małgorzata , Bogdański Paweł
Published: March 2022

Excessive consumption of sugar-rich foods is currently one of the most important factors that has led to the development of the global pandemic of obesity. On the other hand, there is evidence that obesity contributes to reduced sensitivity to sweet taste and hormonal changes affecting appetite, leading to an increased craving for sweets. A high intake of sugars increases the caloric value of the diet and, consequently, leads to weight gain. Moreover, attention is drawn to the concept of the addictive properties of sugar and sugary foods. A potential method to reduce the energy value of diet while maintaining the sweet taste is using non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS). NNS are commonly used as table sugar substitutes. This wide group of chemical compounds features high sweetness almost without calories due to its high sweetening strength. NNS include aspartame, acesulfame-K, sucralose, saccharin, cyclamate, neohesperidin dihydrochalcone (neohesperidin DC), neotame, taumatin, and advantame. The available evidence suggests that replacing sugar with NNS may support weight control. However, the effect of NNS on the regulation of appetite and sweet taste perception is not clear. Therefore, the review aimed to summarize the current knowledge about the use of NNS as a potential strategy for weight loss and their impact on sweet taste perception. Most studies have demonstrated that consumption of NNS-sweetened foods does not increase sweetness preference orenergy intake. Nonetheless, further research is required to determine the long-term effects of NNS on weight management.
Prevalence and Determinants of Vitamin D Deficiency in 1825 Cape Town Primary Schoolchildren: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Middelkoop Keren , Walker Neil , Stewart Justine , Delport Carmen , Jolliffe David A. , Nuttall James , Coussens Anna K. , Naude Celeste E. , Tang Jonathan C. Y. , Fraser William D. , Wilkinson Robert J. , Bekker Linda-Gail , Martineau Adrian R.
Published: March 2022

Vitamin D deficiency (25-hydroxyvitamin D[25(OH)D] <50 nmol/L) is common among adults in Cape Town, South Africa, but studies investigating vitamin D status of children in this setting are lacking. We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence and determinants of vitamin D deficiency in 1825 Cape Town schoolchildren aged 6–11 years. Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 7.6% (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 6.5% to 8.9%). Determinants of vitamin D deficiency included month of sampling (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] for July–September vs. January–March 10.69, 95% CI 5.02 to 22.77; aOR for October–December vs. January–March 6.73, 95% CI 2.82 to 16.08), older age (aOR 1.25 per increasing year, 95% CI: 1.01–1.53) and higher body mass index (BMI; aOR 1.24 per unit increase in BMI-for-age Z-score, 95% CI: 1.03–1.49). In a subset of 370 participants in whom parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations were measured; these were inversely related to serum 25(OH)D concentrations (p < 0.001). However, no association between participants with hyperparathyroidism (PTH >6.9 pmol/L) and vitamin D deficiency was seen (p = 0.42). In conclusion, we report that season is the major determinant of vitamin D status among Cape Town primary schoolchildren, with prevalence of vitamin D deficiency ranging from 1.4% in January–March to 22.8% in July–September.
Impact of Egg Exposure to UV Filter-Spiked Sediment on the Survival, Hatching Success, Cardiac Frequency, and Metabolic Scope of Zebrafish Embryos
Authors: Lucas Julie , Logeux Valentin , Rodrigues Alice , Stien Didier , Lebaron Philippe
Published: March 2022

Chemical UV filters are increasingly used in cosmetics to protect skin from UV radiation. As a consequence, they are released into the aquatic environment via recreational activities and wastewaters. In aquatic ecosystems, fish eggs in contact with sediment can be affected by organic and lipophilic pollutants such as UV filters. The present study aims to evaluate the toxicity of six individual UV filters, diethylhexyl butamido triazone (DBT), diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate (DHHB), ethylhexyl triazone (ET), 2-ethylhexyl salicylate (ES), homosalate (HS), and octocrylene (OC), in the embryo-larval stages of zebrafish Danio rerio. Contamination of fish eggs and larvae with UV filters occurred through contact with spiked sediment for 96 h at a concentration of 10 μg g−1. Among the six UV filters tested, OC delayed hatching success, whereas ES significantly increased the heartbeat rate of embryo–larvae after sediment exposure, probably as a stress response.
Comparison of Auto Sampling and Passive Sampling Methods for SARS-CoV-2 Detection in Wastewater
Authors: Wilson Melissa , Qiu Yuanyuan , Yu Jiaao , Lee Bonita E. , McCarthy David T. , Pang Xiaoli
Published: March 2022

Wastewater-based surveillance is emerging as an important tool for the COVID-19 pandemic trending. Current methods of wastewater collection, such as grab and auto-composite sampling, have drawbacks that impede effective surveillance, especially from small catchments with limited accessibility. Passive samplers, which are more cost-effective and require fewer resources to process, are promising candidates for monitoring wastewater for SARS-CoV-2. Here, we compared traditional auto sampling with passive sampling for SARS-CoV-2 detection in wastewater. A torpedo-style 3D-printed passive sampler device containing both cotton swabs and electronegative filter membranes was used. Between April and June 2021, fifteen passive samplers were placed at a local hospital’s wastewater outflow alongside an autosampler. Reverse transcription and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to detect SARS-CoV-2 in the samples after processing and RNA extraction. The swab and membrane of the passive sampler showed similar detection rates and cycle threshold (Ct) values for SARS-CoV-2 RNA for the N1 and N2 gene targets. The passive method performed as well as the grab/auto sampling, with no significant differences between N1 and N2 Ct values. There were discrepant results on two days with negative grab/auto samples and positive passive samples, which might be related to the longer duration of passive sampling in the study. Overall, the passive sampler was rapid, reliable, and cost-effective, and could be used as an alternative sampling method for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater.