bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feeding Broiler Chickens with Grape Seed and Skin Meals to Enhance α- and γ-Tocopherol Content and Meat Oxidative Stability
Authors: Romero Carlos , Nardoia Maria , Arija Ignacio , Viveros Agustín , Rey Ana I. , Prodanov Marin , Chamorro Susana
Published: April 2021

Grape seeds (GS) and grape skins (GK) are natural sources of polyphenols with featured antioxidant capacity. An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of these polyphenol sources in diets formulated to contain the same total extractable grape polyphenol content on growth performance, protein and extractable polyphenol digestibility, plasma and meat α- and γ-tocopherol and thigh meat oxidation in broiler chickens. Five experimental diets were formulated: control, control + vitamin E (200 mg/kg), 30 g/kg GS diet, 110 g/kg GK diet, GS + GK diet (a mixture of 24.4 g/kg GS and 13.1 g/kg GK designed to simulate a reconstituted grape pomace). Feeding chickens with 110 g/kg GK reduced (p < 0.001) daily weight gain, worsened (p < 0.001) feed conversion ratio, increased (p < 0.001) non-extractable polyphenol content in the ileum and in the excreta and decreased (p < 0.05) ileal protein digestibility. Regardless of the grape polyphenol source used, the inclusion of grape byproducts in the diets led to an increase of total extractable polyphenol contents in the ileum (p < 0.01) and the excreta (p < 0.001), which resulted (p < 0.001) in a decrease of extractable polyphenol digestibilities. Alpha- and gamma-tocopherol concentrations increased (p < 0.001) in plasma and in seven-day stored meat in birds fed the diet combining GS and GK with respect to the control group. As it happened with the vitamin E supplementation, feeding the combination of GS and GK also reduced (p < 0.001) the concentration of the lipid peroxidation marker (malondialdehyde) in the stored meat of chickens.
Survival of a SARS-CoV-2 Surrogate on Flow-Pack Polyethylene and Polystyrene Food Trays at Refrigeration and Room Temperature Conditions
Authors: Terio Valentina , Lorusso Patrizio , Castrica Marta , Pandiscia Annamaria , Miraglia Dino , Balzaretti Claudia Maria , Tantillo Giuseppina , Decaro Nicola
Published: April 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiological agent of the current pandemic referred to as coronavirus disease 2019, is spread by direct and indirect transmission between humans, including contact with contaminated surfaces, frozen food, packaging materials, and storage environments. Food contamination may occur in the “farm-to- table” lifecycle through contact with food handlers and environments. In the present study, the survival of a SARS-CoV-2 surrogate (feline coronavirus (FCoV)) at room temperature and refrigeration conditions for different time intervals on two types packaging widely used packaging, namely flow-pack polyethylene and polystyrene food trays, was investigated. FCoV was stable on the flow-pack polyethylene for 48 h and 120 h at room temperature and 4 °C, respectively, while it persisted on polystyrene food trays for 36 h at room temperature and for 120 h at +4 °C. The results of our study highlight the possible implications of food packaging in the spread of SARS-CoV-2 during the current pandemic.
Experimental Evaluation of a Latent Heat Storage Module with a Heat Spreader for Thermal Management of a Tablet Computer
Authors: Sponagle Benjamin , Groulx Dominic , White Mary Anne
Published: April 2021

The objective of this work was to experimentally determine the feasibility of using a phase change material (PCM)-based temperature control module, in conjunction with a heat spreader and thermal interface material, to improve the thermal management of a tablet computer. An experimental apparatus was designed to be representative of a tablet computer. This mock tablet was used to perform a series of transient heating and cooling experiments to compare the impact of the PCM module on the thermal response of the system. The PCM module consisted of n-eicosane encapsulated with heat-sealable laminated film forming a 2 mm thick sheet of encapsulated PCM. A full comparison, including the use of a heat spreader and a thermal interface material (TIM), was conducted at heat generation rates of 4.5 and 7 W. The temperature control module was able to reduce the mean and peak temperatures of the internal components and at a heat generation rate of 7 W it extended its operating time by 30% before it reached a critical threshold temperature.
Virtual Reality as a Reflection Technique for Public Speaking Training
Authors: Zhou Hangyu , Fujimoto Yuichiro , Kanbara Masayuki , Kato Hirokazu
Published: April 2021

Video recording is one of the most commonly used techniques for reflection, because video allows people to know what they look like to others and how they could improve their performance, but it is problematic because some people easily fall into negative emotions and worry about their performance, resulting in a low benefit. In this study, the possibility of applying a simple VR-based reflection method was explored. This method uses virtual reality (VR) and a head-mounted display (HMD) to allow presenters to watch their own presentations from the audience’s perspective and uses an avatar, which hides personal appearance, which has low relevance to the quality of presentation, to help reduce self-awareness during reflection. An experimental study was carried out, considering four personal characteristics—gender, personal anxiety, personal confidence and self-bias. The goal of this study is to discuss which populations can benefit more from this system and to assess the impact of the avatar and HMD-based VR. According to the results, the individuals with low self-confidence in their public speaking skills could benefit more on self-evaluation from VR reflection with HMD, while individuals with negative self-bias could reduce more anxiety by using an avatar.
The Design and Simulation of an Astronomical Clock
Authors: Popkonstantinović Branislav , Obradović Ratko , Stojićević Miša , Jeli Zorana , Cvetković Ivana , Vasiljević Ivana , Milojević Zoran
Published: April 2021

This paper describes and explains the synthesis of an astronomical clock mechanism which displays the mean position of the Sun, the Moon, the lunar node and zodiac circle as well as the Moon phases and their motion during the year as seen from the Earth. The clock face represents the stereographic projection of the celestial equator, celestial tropics, zodiac circle (ecliptic) and horizon for the latitude of Belgrade from the north celestial pole to the equator plane. The observed motions of celestial objects are realized by a set of clock gear trains with properly calculated gear ratios. The method of continued fraction is applied in the computation of proper and practically applicable gear ratios of the clock gear trains. The fully operational 3D model of the astronomical clock is created and the motion study of its operation is accomplished by using the SolidWorks 2016 application. The simulation results are compared with the ephemeris data and the detected differences are used to evaluate the long-term accuracy of the astronomical clock operation. The presented methods of the clock mechanism synthesis can be useful for the design, maintenance and conservation of large-scale city astronomical clocks since these clocks represent a precious historical and cultural heritage of European civilization.
Plywood Jig—A New Technique for Root Canal Curvature Measurement
Authors: Makandar Saleem D. , Khaiser Mohammed Imran , Mali Sneha R. , Karobari Mohmed Isaqali , Marya Anand , Messina Pietro , Scardina Giuseppe Alessandro
Published: April 2021

The successful outcome of endodontic treatment is dependent on complete cleaning, shaping as well as three dimensional obturation of the root canal system. A conventional radiograph is a two-dimensional replication of a three-dimensional object and does not provide any conclusive evidence for canal curvatures. An accurate knowledge of the tooth anatomy and curvature is essential to avoid procedural errors. 100 freshly extracted human teeth were used in this study. Digital images were obtained using the plywood JIG and Schneider’s technique. These images were analyzed using the VixWin Pro digital image analyzing software (Gendex system). Statistical analysis was done using paired t test. The canal curvature average values measured using Jig method and Schneider method for mandibular teeth are 28.23° (±9.96) and 22.07° (±9.46) respectively. The smallest/largest curvature angles measured using Jig method and Schneider technique are 12/52° and 8/44° respectively. Canal curvature average values measured using Jig method and Schneider method for maxillary teeth were 23.40° (±11.36) and 19.23° (±11.94) respectively. The smallest/largest average curvature angles measured using Jig method, Schneider technique were 9/70° and 5/72° respectively. The values of the canal curvature angle obtained during routine radiographs in clinics have lower curvature angle and higher radius values as compared to the values obtained by this innovative JIG technique. Therefore, a clinician should always keep in mind the difference while measuring the curvature angle on radiographs during root canal treatment.
An Efficient Library for Reliability Block Diagram Evaluation
Authors: Carnevali Laura , Ciani Lorenzo , Fantechi Alessandro , Gori Gloria , Papini Marco
Published: April 2021

Reliability Block Diagrams (RBDs) are widely used in reliability engineering to model how the system reliability depends on the reliability of components or subsystems. In this paper, we present librbd, a C library providing a generic, efficient and open-source solution for time-dependent reliability evaluation of RBDs. The library has been developed as a part of a project for reliability evaluation of complex systems through a layered approach, combining different modeling formalisms and solution techniques at different system levels. The library achieves accuracy and efficiency comparable to, and mostly better than, those of other well-established tools, and it is well designed so that it can be easily used by other libraries and tools.
The Function Design for the Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) System: How to Solve the Problems in the Underground Mine Rail Transportation?
Authors: Yu Haoxuan , Li Shuai
Published: April 2021

With the continuous development of the mining industry, the world’s major mines have gradually entered the intelligent stage. In intelligent underground mines, the operation roads of the underground transportation equipment are very complicated, and the monitoring and control of the underground traffic have become the problems to be solved in the intelligent underground mines. Therefore, on the basis of solving the practical problems of underground mines, the concept paper discusses the possibility of the communication-based train control (CBTC) system being applied to underground mines through the summary and induction of the related literature. As mining engineers, we have proposed the function design for the CBTC system to solve the problems in underground mine rail transportation, but we still need to continue to work hard for the future development of the underground mines. The concept paper serves as a guide to the Tossing out a brick to get a jade gem, and it has implications for the development and the future of underground mine transportation.
Evaluation of a Novel Poultry Litter Amendment on Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Authors: Anderson Kelsey , Moore Philip A. , Martin Jerry , Ashworth Amanda J.
Published: April 2021

Gaseous emissions from poultry litter causes production problems for producers as well as the environment, by contributing to climate change and reducing air quality. Novel methods of reducing ammonia (NH3) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in poultry facilities are needed. As such, our research evaluated GHG emissions over a 42 d period. Three separate flocks of 1000 broilers were used for this study. The first flock was used only to produce litter needed for the experiment. The second and third flocks were allocated to 20 pens in a randomized block design with four replicated of five treatments. The management practices studied included an unamended control; a conventional practice of incorporating aluminum sulfate (referred to as alum) at 98 kg/100 m2); a novel litter amendment made from alum mud, bauxite, and sulfuric acid (alum mud litter amendment, AMLA) applied at different rates (49 and 98 kg/100 m2) and methods (surface applied or incorporated). Nitrous oxide emissions were low for all treatments in flocks 2 and 3 (0.40 and 0.37 mg m2 hr−1, respectively). The formation of caked litter (due to excessive moisture) during day 35 and 42 caused high variability in CH4 and CO2 emissions. Alum mud litter amendment and alum did not significantly affect GHGs emissions from litter, regardless of the amendment rate or application method. In fact, litter amendments such as alum and AMLA typically lower GHG emissions from poultry facilities by reducing ventilation requirements to maintain air quality in cooler months due to lower NH3 levels, resulting in less propane use and concomitant reductions in CO2 emissions.
Geographic Shift and Environment Change of U.S. Tornado Activities in a Warming Climate
Authors: Cao Zuohao , Cai Huaqing , Zhang Guang J.
Published: April 2021

Even with ever-increasing societal interest in tornado activities engendering catastrophes of loss of life and property damage, the long-term change in the geographic location and environment of tornado activity centers over the last six decades (1954–2018), and its relationship with climate warming in the U.S., is still unknown or not robustly proved scientifically. Utilizing discriminant analysis, we show a statistically significant geographic shift of U.S. tornado activity center (i.e., Tornado Alley) under warming conditions, and we identify five major areas of tornado activity in the new Tornado Alley that were not identified previously. By contrasting warm versus cold years, we demonstrate that the shift of relative warm centers is coupled with the shifts in low pressure and tornado activity centers. The warm and moist air carried by low-level flow from the Gulf of Mexico combined with upward motion acts to fuel convection over the tornado activity centers. Employing composite analyses using high resolution reanalysis data, we further demonstrate that high tornado activities in the U.S. are associated with stronger cyclonic circulation and baroclinicity than low tornado activities, and the high tornado activities are coupled with stronger low-level wind shear, stronger upward motion, and higher convective available potential energy (CAPE) than low tornado activities. The composite differences between high-event and low-event years of tornado activity are identified for the first time in terms of wind shear, upward motion, CAPE, cyclonic circulation and baroclinicity, although some of these environmental variables favorable for tornado development have been discussed in previous studies.
Effect of Urban Heat Island and Global Warming Countermeasures on Heat Release and Carbon Dioxide Emissions from a Detached House
Authors: Narumi Daisuke , Levinson Ronnen , Shimoda Yoshiyuki
Published: April 2021

Urban air temperature rises induced by the urban heat island (UHIE) effect or by global warming (GW) can be beneficial in winter but detrimental in summer. The SCIENCE-Outdoor model was used to simulate changes to sensible heat release and CO2 emissions from buildings yielded by four UHIE countermeasures and five GW countermeasures. This model can evaluate the thermal condition of building envelope surfaces, both inside and outside. The results showed that water-consuming UHIE countermeasures such as evaporative space cooling and roof water showering provided positive effects (decreasing sensible heat release and CO2 emissions related to space conditioning) in summer. Additionally, they had no negative (unwanted cooling) effects in winter since they can be turned off in the heating season. Roof greening can provide the greatest space- conditioning CO2 emissions reductions among four UHIE countermeasures, and it reduces the amount of heat release slightly in the heating season. Since the effect on reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by UHIE countermeasures is not very significant, it is desirable to introduce GW countermeasures in order to reduce CO2 emissions. The significance of this study is that it constructed the new simulation model SCIENCE-Outdoor and applied it to show the influence of countermeasures upon both heat release and CO2 emissions.
Sub-Cloud Secondary Evaporation in Precipitation Stable Isotopes Based on the Stewart Model in Yangtze River Basin
Authors: Xiao Hanyu , Zhang Mingjun , Zhang Yu , Huang Zhihua , Yao Xuyang , Wang Jiaxin , Han Tingting , Su Pengyan
Published: April 2021

The stable isotopes (2H, 18O) of precipitation change due to the sub-cloud secondary evaporation during raindrop fall. The study of the temporal and spatial variation of sub-cloud secondary evaporation and its causes by using hydrogen and oxygen stable isotopes is of great significance to the study of the regional water cycle process. Based on the hourly meteorological data of 648 meteorological stations in 17 provinces (cities) of the Yangtze River Basin from March 2018 to February 2019, we analyzed the temporal and spatial characteristics of precipitation excess deuterium variation (Δd) in the region, based on the improved Stewart model. We discuss the various influence factors under different magnitude Δd value change and the impact factor of each partition sub-cloud secondary evaporation influence of the difference. The results show the following: (1) In terms of hourly variation, the sub-cloud secondary evaporation in the daytime is stronger than that at night. In terms of monthly variation, different regions of the study area have different characteristics; that is, the effect of sub-cloud secondary evaporation is more significant in summer and autumn in the northern subtropics and south temperate zones, and in spring and summer in the mid-subtropics and plateau climate zones. (2) There were significant spatial differences in the study area in different seasons, and the effect of sub-cloud secondary evaporation was the most significant in the plateau climate area throughout the year. (3) When the rainfall is 0–5 mm, the temperature is >30 °C, the vapor pressure is <3 hPa, the relative humidity is 50–60%, and the raindrop diameter is 0.5–1 mm; the sub-cloud secondary evaporation effect is the most obvious.
Selection Criteria of Cord Blood Units for Platelet Gel Production: Proposed Directions from Hellenic Cord Blood Bank. Comment on Mallis et al. Short Term Results of Fibrin Gel Obtained from Cord Blood Units: A Preliminary in Vitro Study. Bioengineering 2019, 6, 66
Authors: Mallis Panagiotis , Michalopoulos Efstathios , Panagouli Effrosyni , Dimou Zetta , Sarri Eirini Faidra , Georgiou Eleni , Gkioka Vasiliki , Stavropoulos-Giokas Catherine
Published: April 2021

This article provides additional knowledge for cord blood platelet gel (CBPG) production. Recently, it has been shown that CBPG exerts beneficial properties in wound healing applications. CBPG is produced after a two-step centrifugation process, following the addition of calcium gluconate. Clinical-grade CBPG can be produced in public cord blood banks, worldwide. However, standardization of the CBPG production process must be established in order to reduce discrepancies that occurred due to different platelet gel preparations. This article aims to provide an update regarding the selection criteria of cord blood units (CBUs), and to provide evidence for the improvement of the CBPG production process. (Comment on “Short Term Results of Fibrin Gel Obtained from Cord Blood Units: A Preliminary in Vitro Study” Bioengineering 2019, 6, 66).
Metabolomic Profiling and Antioxidant Activity of Fruits Representing Diverse Apple and Pear Cultivars
Authors: Commisso Mauro , Bianconi Martino , Poletti Stefania , Negri Stefano , Munari Francesca , Ceoldo Stefania , Guzzo Flavia
Published: April 2021

The false fruits of apple (Malus domestica) and pear (Pyrus communis) are consumed all over the world, contributing to the dietary intake of health-promoting antioxidant phytochemicals. For example, polyphenols confer many beneficial effects (according to their chemical structure, bioavailability, and absorption efficiency in the gut) and the consumption of polyphenol-rich apple and pear fruits may therefore reduce the risk of some diseases. However, the content of such molecules is highly dependent on the specific fruit cultivar. To examine this metabolic diversity in detail, we used metabolomic analysis (NMR and HPLC-DAD/MS) to profile the metabolome of six apple and five pear cultivars. We also determined the antioxidant capacity of the extracts (FRAP assay) and correlated this with the metabolomic composition and abundance of specific metabolites. We observed the cultivar-specific accumulation of sugars, amino acids, malic acid, and various polyphenols, which was also related to the growing season for some cultivars. We found that the ancient Italian apple Pom Prussian was enriched for chlorogenic acid as well as more characteristic polyphenols (phloretin derivatives), the pear cultivar Abate Fetel was low in sucrose, and both cultivars displayed high in vitro antioxidant activity. These cultivars may, therefore, be particularly attractive to health-conscious consumers.
Recent Advances in Improved Anticancer Efficacies of Camptothecin Nano-Formulations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ghanbari-Movahed Maryam , Kaceli Tea , Mondal Arijit , Farzaei Mohammad Hosein , Bishayee Anupam
Published: April 2021

Camptothecin (CPT), a natural plant alkaloid, has indicated potent antitumor activities via targeting intracellular topoisomerase I. The promise that CPT holds in therapies is restricted through factors that include lactone ring instability and water insolubility, which limits the drug oral solubility and bioavailability in blood plasma. Novel strategies involving CPT pharmacological and low doses combined with nanoparticles have indicated potent anticancer activity in vitro and in vivo. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive and critical evaluation of the anticancer ability of nano-CPT in various cancers as a novel and more efficient natural compound for drug development. Studies were identified through systematic searches of PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. Eligibility checks were performed based on predefined selection criteria. Eighty-two papers were included in this systematic review. There was strong evidence for the association between antitumor activity and CPT treatment. Furthermore, studies indicated that CPT nano-formulations have higher antitumor activity in comparison to free CPT, which results in enhanced efficacy for cancer treatment. The results of our study indicate that CPT nano-formulations are a potent candidate for cancer treatment and may provide further support for the clinical application of natural antitumor agents with passive targeting of tumors in the future.
In Situ LSPR Sensing of Secreted Insulin in Organ-on-Chip
Authors: Ortega María A. , Rodríguez-Comas Júlia , Yavas Ozlem , Velasco-Mallorquí Ferran , Balaguer-Trias Jordina , Parra Victor , Novials Anna , Servitja Joan M. , Quidant Romain , Ramón-Azcón Javier
Published: April 2021

Organ-on-a-chip (OOC) devices offer new approaches for metabolic disease modeling and drug discovery by providing biologically relevant models of tissues and organs in vitro with a high degree of control over experimental variables for high-content screening applications. Yet, to fully exploit the potential of these platforms, there is a need to interface them with integrated non-labeled sensing modules, capable of monitoring, in situ, their biochemical response to external stimuli, such as stress or drugs. In order to meet this need, we aim here to develop an integrated technology based on coupling a localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) sensing module to an OOC device to monitor the insulin in situ secretion in pancreatic islets, a key physiological event that is usually perturbed in metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). As a proof of concept, we developed a biomimetic islet-on-a-chip (IOC) device composed of mouse pancreatic islets hosted in a cellulose-based scaffold as a novel approach. The IOC was interfaced with a state-of-the-art on-chip LSPR sensing platform to monitor the in situ insulin secretion. The developed platform offers a powerful tool to enable the in situ response study of microtissues to external stimuli for applications such as a drug-screening platform for human models, bypassing animal testing.
Mindfulness and Other Simple Neuroscience-Based Proposals to Promote the Learning Performance and Mental Health of Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Tortella Gonzalo R. , Seabra Amedea B. , Padrão Jorge , Díaz-San Juan Rodrigo
Published: April 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on education. The restrictions imposed have undoubtedly led to impairment of the psychological well-being of both teachers and students, and of the way they experience interpersonal relationships. As reported previously in the literature, adverse effects such as loneliness, anxiety, and stress have resulted in a decrease in the cognitive performance of school and higher education students. Therefore, the objective of this work is to present a general overview of the reported adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic which may potentially influence the learning performance of students. Some neuroscientific findings related to memory and cognition, such as neuroplasticity and long-term potentiation, are also shown. We also discuss the positive effects of the practice of mindfulness, as well as other simple recommendations based on neuroscientific findings such as restful sleep, physical activity, and nutrition, which can act on memory and cognition. Finally, we propose some practical recommendations on how to achieve more effective student learning in the context of the pandemic. The aim of this review is to provide some assistance in this changing and uncertain situation in which we all find ourselves, and we hope that some of the information could serve as a starting point for hypotheses to be tested in educational research and their association with neuroscience.
Exploring Affective Priming Effect of Emotion-Label Words and Emotion-Laden Words: An Event-Related Potential Study
Authors: Wu Chenggang , Zhang Juan , Yuan Zhen
Published: April 2021

In order to explore the affective priming effect of emotion-label words and emotion-laden words, the current study used unmasked (Experiment 1) and masked (Experiment 2) priming paradigm by including emotion-label words (e.g., sadness, anger) and emotion-laden words (e.g., death, gift) as primes and examined how the two kinds of words acted upon the processing of the target words (all emotion-laden words). Participants were instructed to decide the valence of target words, and their electroencephalogram was recorded at the same time. The behavioral and event-related potential (ERP) results showed that positive words produced a priming effect whereas negative words inhibited target word processing (Experiment 1). In Experiment 2, the inhibition effect of negative emotion-label words on emotion word recognition was found in both behavioral and ERP results, suggesting that modulation of emotion word type on emotion word processing could be observed even in the masked priming paradigm. The two experiments further supported the necessity of defining emotion words under an emotion word type perspective. The implications of the findings are proffered. Specifically, a clear understanding of emotion-label words and emotion-laden words can improve the effectiveness of emotional communications in clinical settings. Theoretically, the emotion word type perspective awaits further explorations and is still at its infancy.
Mass Media Exposure and Safer Sex Negotiation among Women in Sexual Unions in Sub-Saharan Africa: Analysis of Demographic and Health Survey Data
Authors: Aboagye Richard Gyan , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Adu Collins , Hagan John Elvis , Amu Hubert , Yaya Sanni
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: Improving sexual autonomy among women in sexual unions comes with various benefits, including the reduction of sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections. We examined the relationship between mass media exposure and safer sex negotiation among women in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). (2) Methods: The study involved a cross-sectional analysis of Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data of 29 sub-Saharan African countries. A total of 224,647 women aged 15–49 were included in our analyses. We examined the association between mass media exposure and safer sex negotiation using binary logistic regression analysis. The results are presented using a crude odds ratio (cOR) and adjusted odds ratio (aOR), with their respective confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. (3) Results: The overall prevalence of safer sex negotiation among women in sexual unions in SSA was 71.6% (71.4–71.8). Women exposed to mass media had higher odds of negotiating for safer sex compared with those who had no exposure (aOR = 1.94; 95% CI = 1.86–2.02), and this persisted after controlling for covariates (maternal age, wealth index, maternal educational level, partner’s age, partner’s educational level, sex of household head, religion, place of residence, and marital status) (aOR = 1.40; 95% CI = 1.35–1.46). The disaggregated results showed higher odds of safer sex negotiation among women exposed to mass media in all the individual countries, except Ghana, Comoros, Rwanda, and Namibia. (4) Conclusions: The findings could inform policies (e.g., transformative mass media educational seminars) and interventions (e.g., face-to-face counselling; small group sensitization sessions) in SSA on the crucial role of mass media in increasing safer sex practice among women in sexual unions. To accelerate progress towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goal five’s targets on empowering all women and safeguarding their reproductive rights, the study recommends that countries such as Ghana, Comoros, Rwanda, and Namibia need to intensify their efforts (e.g., regular sensitization campaigns) in increasing safer sex negotiation among women to counter power imbalances in sexual behaviour.
The Influence of Photocatalytic Reactors Design and Operating Parameters on the Wastewater Organic Pollutants Removal—A Mini-Review
Authors: Enesca Alexandru
Published: April 2021

The organic pollutants removal by conventional methods (adsorption, coagulation, filtration, microorganism and enzymes) showed important limitation due to the reluctance of these molecules. An alternative to this issue is represented by the photocatalytic technology considered as an advanced oxidation process (AOP). The photoreactors design and concepts vary based on the working regime (static or dynamic), photocatalyst morphology (powders or bulk) and volume. This mini-review aims to provide specific guidelines on the correlations between the photoreactor concept characteristics (working regime, volume and flow rate), irradiation scenarios (light spectra, irradiation period and intensity) and the photocatalytic process parameters (photocatalyst materials and dosage, pollutant type and concentration, pollutant removal efficiency and constant rate). The paper considers two main photoreactor geometries (cylindrical and rectangular) and analyses the influence of parameters optimization on the overall photocatalytic efficiency. Based on the systematic evaluation of the input data reported in the scientific papers, several perspectives regarding the photocatalytic reactors’ optimization were included.
Base-Free Synthesis of Furfurylamines from Biomass Furans Using Ru Pincer Complexes
Authors: Pinheiro Danielle , Nielsen Martin
Published: April 2021

We report the first example of employing homogeneous organometal-catalyzed transfer hydrogenation for the selective reductive amination of furfurals to furfurylamines. An efficient, chemoselective, and base-free method is described using Ru-MACHO-BH as catalyst and iPrOH as H donor. The method tolerates a range of substituents affording moderate to excellent yields.
Age-Dependent Microglial Response to Systemic Infection
Authors: Cyr Brianna , de Rivero Vaccari Juan Pablo
Published: April 2021

Inflammation is part of the aging process, and the inflammatory innate immune response is more exacerbated in older individuals when compared to younger individuals. Similarly, there is a difference in the response to systemic infection that varies with age. In a recent article by Hoogland et al., the authors studied the microglial response to systemic infection in young (2 months) and middle-aged mice (13–14 months) that were challenged with live Escherichia coli to investigate whether the pro- and anti-inflammatory responses mounted by microglia after systemic infection varies with age. Here, we comment on this study and its implications on how inflammation in the brain varies with age.
The ECM Modulator ITIH5 Affects Cell Adhesion, Motility and Chemotherapeutic Response of Basal/Squamous-Like (BASQ) Bladder Cancer Cells
Authors: Rose Michael , Noetzel Erik , Kistermann Jennifer , Eschenbruch Julian , Rushrush Sandra , Gan Lin , Knüchel Ruth , Gaisa Nadine T. , Dahl Edgar
Published: April 2021

This study aims at characterizing the role of the putative tumor suppressor ITIH5 in basal-type bladder cancers (BLCA). By sub-classifying TCGA BLCA data, we revealed predominant loss of ITIH5 expression in the basal/squamous-like (BASQ) subtype. ITIH5 expression inversely correlated with basal-type makers such as KRT6A and CD44. Interestingly, Kaplan–Meier analyses showed longer recurrence-free survival in combination with strong CD44 expression, which is thought to mediate ITIH-hyaluronan (HA) binding functions. In vitro, stable ITIH5 overexpression in two basal-type BLCA cell lines showing differential CD44 expression levels, i.e., with (SCaBER) and without squamous features (HT1376), demonstrated clear inhibition of cell and colony growth of BASQ-type SCaBER cells. ITIH5 further enhanced HA-associated cell-matrix attachment, indicated by altered size and number of focal adhesion sites resulting in reduced cell migration capacities. Transcriptomic analyses revealed enrichment of pathways and processes involved in ECM organization, differentiation and cell signaling. Finally, we provide evidence that ITIH5 increase sensitivity of SCaBER cells to chemotherapeutical agents (cisplatin and gemcitabine), whereas responsiveness of HT1376 cells was not affected by ITIH5 expression. Thus, we gain further insights into the putative role of ITIH5 as tumor suppressor highlighting an impact on drug response potentially via the HA-CD44 axis in BASQ-type BLCA.
The Effect and Regulatory Mechanism of High Mobility Group Box-1 Protein on Immune Cells in Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Ge Yun , Huang Man , Yao Yong-ming
Published: April 2021

High mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB1), a member of the high mobility group protein superfamily, is an abundant and ubiquitously expressed nuclear protein. Intracellular HMGB1 is released by immune and necrotic cells and secreted HMGB1 activates a range of immune cells, contributing to the excessive release of inflammatory cytokines and promoting processes such as cell migration and adhesion. Moreover, HMGB1 is a typical damage-associated molecular pattern molecule that participates in various inflammatory and immune responses. In these ways, it plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of inflammatory diseases. Herein, we review the effects of HMGB1 on various immune cell types and describe the molecular mechanisms by which it contributes to the development of inflammatory disorders. Finally, we address the therapeutic potential of targeting HMGB1.
Telemedicine and Integrated Multidisciplinary Care for Pediatric IBD Patients: A Review
Authors: Potthoff Lauren M.
Published: April 2021

The global COVID-19 pandemic brought with it an unprecedented, widespread implementation of telemedicine services, requiring pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) providers to shift in-person clinic visits to a virtual platform. With the passing of the one-year anniversary of the global pandemic, telemedicine continues to be offered and utilized. Although it remains unclear as to the extent to which telemedicine services will be used in the future, it is critical to understand how integrated multidisciplinary treatment—the standard of care in pediatric IBD—is delivered through a virtual platform. This paper provides an overview of the existing literature examining integrated multidisciplinary care for pediatric IBD provided via telemedicine. The author also presents one integrated multidisciplinary IBD program’s response to the global pandemic and subsequent transition to telemedicine. Challenges around implementation and directions for future research in this area are also discussed.
Effect of Bombyx mori on the Liver Protection of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Based on In Vitro and In Vivo Models
Authors: Park Miey , Kang Chaewon , Lee Hae-Jeung
Published: April 2021

Edible insects, Bombyx mori (silkworm; SW), which feed on mulberry leaves, have been consumed by humans for a long time as supplements or traditional medication. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a liver metabolic disorder that affects many people worldwide. We examined the hepatoprotective effects of SW using in vitro and high-fat and high-fructose (HFHF) diet-induced obese in vivo model mice by real-time PCR, immunoblot analysis, and fecal microbiota analysis. SW significantly reduced lipid accumulation and expression of the lipogenic genes in HepG2 cells and the livers of HFHF-induced mice. SW caused significant reductions in triglycerides, and total cholesterol in serum and upregulation of fatty acid oxidation markers compared to the HFHF group. Besides, SW significantly induced phosphorylation of AMPK and ACC in both models, suggesting roles in AMPK activation and the ACC signaling pathway. Furthermore, the gut microbiota analysis demonstrated that SW treatment reduced Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratios and the relative abundance of the Lachnospiraceae family compared to HFHF-induced obese mice. These results provide a novel therapeutic agent of hepatoprotective effects of SW for non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis that targets hepatic AMPK and ACC-mediated lipid metabolism.
Effects of Advanced Amines on Magnetite Deposition of Steam Generator Tubes in Secondary System
Authors: Lee Yong-Beom , Lee Ji-Min , Hur Do-Haeng , Lee Jong-Hyeon , Jeon Soon-Hyeok
Published: April 2021

Ethanolamine (ETA) is widely used to control the pH value in the secondary water of pressurized water reactors. However, it is necessary to consider other advanced amines which can replace ETA due to its serious human hazards and environmental treatment problems. The purpose of this study is to contemplate the effects of three advanced amines (ETA, 3-methoxypropylamine (MPA), and dimethylamine (DMA)) on the magnetite deposition behavior of a thermally treated (TT) Alloy 690 tubes by using a steam generator (SG) tube fouling loop in simulated secondary water. All particles were identified as a magnetite and were polyhedral or spherical in shape. When using ETA, MPA, and DMA, the average porosity of the deposits was about 34.7%, 33.0%, and 24.6%, respectively. The amount of deposits was largest when ETA was added, and it decreased by 41% when adding MPA and 55% when adding DMA. The mechanism of magnetite deposition was discussed in terms of zeta potentials of both the magnetite particles and the Alloy 690TT surface and magnetite solubility depending on the amines. To compare the potential for replacing ETA with other advanced amines, the various factors such as SG integrity, human hazards, and environmental treatment problems were discussed.
Effect of Oxide Scale Microstructure on Atmospheric Corrosion Behavior of Hot Rolled Steel Strip
Authors: Sun Bin , Cheng Lei , Du Chong-Yang , Zhang Jing-Ke , He Yong-Quan , Cao Guang-Ming
Published: April 2021

The atmospheric corrosion behavior of a hot-rolled strip with four types (I–IV) of oxide scale was investigated using the accelerated wet–dry cycle corrosion test. Corrosion resistance and porosity of oxide scale were studied by potentiometric polarization measurements. Characterization of samples after 80 cycles of the wet–dry corrosion test showed that scale comprised wüstite and magnetite had strongest corrosion resistance. Oxide scale composed of inner magnetite/iron (>70%) and an outer magnetite layer had the weakest corrosion resistance. The corrosion kinetics (weight gain) of each type of oxide scale followed an initial linear and then parabolic (at middle to late corrosion) relationship. This could be predicted by a simple kinetic model which showed good agreement with the experimental results. Analysis of the potentiometric polarization curves, obtained from oxide coated steel electrodes, revealed that the type I oxide scale had the highest porosity, and the corrosion mechanism resulted from the joint effects of electrochemical behavior and the porosity of the oxide scale. In the initial stage of corrosion, the corrosion product nucleated and an outer rust layer formed. As the thickness of outer rust layer increased, the corrosion product developed on the scale defects. An inner rust layer then formed in the localized pits as crack growth of the scale. This attacked the scale and expanded into the substrate during the later stage of corrosion. At this stage, the protective effect of the oxide scale was lost.
Curcumin: Modern Applications for a Versatile Additive
Authors: Raduly Florentina , Raditoiu Valentin , Raditoiu Alina , Purcar Violeta
Published: April 2021

The recent development of several methods for extracting curcumin from the root of the plant Curcuma longa has led to intensified research on the properties of curcumin and its fields of application. Following the studies and the accreditation of curcumin as a natural compound with antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties, new fields of application have been developed in two main directions—food and medical, respectively. This review paper aims to synthesize the fields of application of curcumin as an additive for the prevention of spoilage, safety, and quality of food. Simultaneously, it aims to present curcumin as an additive in products for the prevention of bacterial infections and health care. In both cases, the types of curcumin formulations in the form of (nano)emulsions, (nano)particles, or (nano)composites are presented, depending on the field and conditions of exploitation or their properties to be used. The diversity of composite materials that can be designed, depending on the purpose of use, leaves open the field of research on the conditioning of curcumin. Various biomaterials active from the antibacterial and antibiofilm point of view can be intuited in which curcumin acts as an additive that potentiates the activities of other compounds or has a synergistic activity with them.
Prognostic Impact of APOBEC3B Expression in Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma and Its Association with Tumor-Infiltrating Cytotoxic T Cells
Authors: Kim Hyunho , Kim Okran , Lee Myung Ah , Lee Ji Youl , Hong Sung-Hoo , Ha U-Syn , Yim Kwangil , Kim In-Ho
Published: April 2021

APOBEC3B enzymes are endogenous carcinogenic mutagens. Metastatic urothelial carcinomas often harbor APOBEC3B-mediated mutations in which tCw to T or G substitution occurs. Here, we evaluated patient survival and CD8+ T-cell density according to APOBEC3B expression in patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma who underwent cytotoxic chemotherapy. We performed a retrospective study on 94 patients with urothelial carcinoma who were treated with first line palliative chemotherapy. APOBEC3B expression and CD8+/CD3+ ratio of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes were evaluated using immunohistochemistry. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were generated and the log-rank test was employed. The association between APOBEC3B expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes was analyzed using Pearson’s chi-squared test. High APOBEC3B expression was detected in 71 of the 94 patients (75.5%). The median overall survival was longer in patients with high APOBEC3B expression (15 months) than in those with low expression (p = 0.045). The hazard ratio obtained based on the Cox regression analysis was 0.292 (95% confidence interval 0.118–0.723, p = 0.008). APOBEC3B expression was associated with the CD8+/CD3+ ratio (2.914, 95% confidence interval 1.030–8.249, p = 0.039). Collectively, APOBEC3B expression was an independent prognostic factor in patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma treated with platinum-based chemotherapy. Tumor-infiltrating cytotoxic T cells were associated with APOBEC3B expression.
Data from Smartphones and Wearables
Authors: Torres-Sospedra Joaquín , Ometov Aleksandr
Published: April 2021

Wearables are wireless devices that we “wear” on our bodies [...]
Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography and Controlled Attenuation Parameter for the Diagnosis of Liver Steatosis and Fibrosis in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Zenovia Sebastian , Stanciu Carol , Sfarti Catalin , Singeap Ana-Maria , Cojocariu Camelia , Girleanu Irina , Dimache Mihaela , Chiriac Stefan , Muzica Cristina Maria , Nastasa Robert , Huiban Laura , Cuciureanu Tudor , Trifan Anca
Published: April 2021

Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography (VCTE) with Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) is a widely used non-invasive technique for concomitant assessment of liver steatosis and fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to evaluate the level both of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis as well as the associated risk factors in patients referred to our unit with clinically suspected NAFLD or diagnosed by abdominal ultrasonography. Two hundred four patients were prospectively included in this study and assessed by VCTE with CAP. The final analysis included 181 patients with reliable liver stiffness measurements (LSMs) (53% female, mean age 57.62 ± 11.8 years and BMI 29.48 ± 4.85 kg/m2). According to the cut-off values for steatosis grading, there were 10 (5.5%) patients without steatosis (S0), 30 (16.6%) with mild (S1), 45 (24.9%) moderate (S2), and 96 (53%) severe (S3) steatosis. Based on LSM, there were 73 (40.3%) patients without fibrosis (F0), 42 (23.2%) with mild (F1), 32 (17.7%) significant (F2), 19 (10.5%) advanced (F3) fibrosis, and 15 (8.3%) with cirrhosis (F4). In addition, we found an association between several metabolic components and hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Thus, in the multivariate analysis, higher BMI, fasting plasma glucose, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and serum uric were associated with increased CAP. Furthermore, higher serum uric acid and alpha-fetoprotein together with lower platelets count and albumin levels were associated with increased LSM. The assessment of steatosis and fibrosis using VCTE and CAP should be performed in all patients with suspected or previously diagnosed NAFLD in units with available facilities.