bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maritime Risk Research and Its Uptake in Policymaking: A Case Study of the Baltic Sea Region
Authors: Schröder-Hinrichs Jens-Uwe , Hebbar Anish Arvind , Alamoush Anas S.
Published: September 2020

The literature on maritime risk management is rich and the findings are pertinent to maritime authorities in the Baltic Sea region; however, little is known regarding how much of the available research is actually utilized. This paper aims to evaluate the uptake of maritime risk research by maritime authorities in the Baltic Sea region and to propose recommendations for its improvement. An existing model to evaluate research uptake was adopted. The factors that could improve research uptake were identified and built into a framework of research institutions’ push of research and its pull by the maritime authorities and industry. The level of research uptake and the utilization of push and pull factors were examined using an online survey questionnaire and in addition, policymakers and researchers were engaged in a workshop to identify the best practices and opportunities for research uptake in the Baltic Sea region. The results show that the overall research uptake level is reasonably good, although factors that increase research utilization are not wholly taken up. Policy recommendations are provided to improve research uptake and science communication. The emergent framework of improvement factors and best practices should serve as a guide to policymakers and researchers to optimize the uptake of research, regardless of discipline.
Measurements and Analysis of Primary Ship Waves in the Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden
Authors: Almström Björn , Larson Magnus
Published: September 2020

Primary ship waves generated by conventional marine vessels were investigated in the Furusund fairway located in the Stockholm archipelago, Sweden. Continuous water level measurements at two locations in the fairway were analyzed. In total, 466 such events were extracted during two months of measurements. The collected data were used to evaluate 13 existing predictive equations for drawdown height or squat. However, none of the equations were able to satisfactorily predict the drawdown height. Instead, a new equation for drawdown height and period was derived based on simplified descriptions of the main physical processes together with field measurements, employing multiple regression analysis to derive coefficients in the equation. The proposed equation for drawdown height performed better than the existing equations with an R2 value of 0.65, whereas the equation for the drawdown period was R2 = 0.64. The main conclusion from this study is that an empirical equation can satisfactorily predict primary ship waves for a large data set.
“They’re Not Going to Do Nothing for Me”: Research Participants’ Attitudes towards Elective Genetic Counseling
Authors: Sutton Erica J. , Beck Annika T. , Gamm Kylie O. , McCormick Jennifer B. , Kullo Iftikhar J. , Sharp Richard R.
Published: September 2020

As applications of genomic sequencing have expanded, offering genetic counseling support to all patients is arguably no longer practical. Additionally, whether individuals desire and value genetic counseling services for genomic screening is unclear. We offered elective genetic counseling to 5110 individuals prior to undergoing sequencing and 2310 participants who received neutral results to assess demand. A total of 0.2% of the study participants accessed genetic counseling services prior to sequencing, and 0.3% reached out after receiving neutral results. We later conducted 50 interviews with participants to understand why they did not access these services. Many interviewees did not recall the availability of genetic counseling and were unfamiliar with the profession. Interviewees described not needing counseling before sequencing because they understood the study and felt that they could cope with any result. Counseling was considered equally unnecessary after learning neutral results. Although the participants had questions about their results, they did not feel that speaking with a genetic counselor would be helpful. Genomic screening efforts that employ opt-in models of genetic counseling may need to clarify the potential value of genetic counseling support from the outset and feature genetic counseling services more prominently in program materials.
Impact of Comorbidities on SARS-CoV-2 Viral Entry-Related Genes
Authors: Breidenbach Joshua , Dube Prabhatchandra , Ghosh Subhanwita , Abdullah Belal , Modyanov Nikolai , Malhotra Deepak , Dworkin Lance , Haller Steven , Kennedy David
Published: September 2020

Viral entry mechanisms for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are an important aspect of virulence. Proposed mechanisms involve host cell membrane-bound angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), type II transmembrane serine proteases (TTSPs), such as transmembrane serine protease isoform 2 (TMPRSS2), lysosomal endopeptidase Cathepsin L (CTSL), subtilisin-like proprotein peptidase furin (FURIN), and even potentially membrane bound heparan sulfate proteoglycans. The distribution and expression of many of these genes across cell types representing multiple organ systems in healthy individuals has recently been demonstrated. However, comorbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease are highly prevalent in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and are associated with worse outcomes. Whether these conditions contribute directly to SARS-CoV-2 virulence remains unclear. Here, we show that the expression levels of ACE2, TMPRSS2 and other viral entry-related genes, as well as potential downstream effector genes such as bradykinin receptors, are modulated in the target organs of select disease states. In tissues, such as the heart, which normally express ACE2 but minimal TMPRSS2, we found that TMPRSS2 as well as other TTSPs are elevated in individuals with comorbidities compared to healthy individuals. Additionally, we found the increased expression of viral entry-related genes in the settings of hypertension, cancer, or smoking across target organ systems. Our results demonstrate that common comorbidities may contribute directly to SARS-CoV-2 virulence and we suggest new therapeutic targets to improve outcomes in vulnerable patient populations.
The #-Filter Anti-Aliasing Based on Sub-Pixel Continuous Edges
Authors: Luo Dening , Zhang Jianwei
Published: September 2020

Anti-aliasing plays a decisive role in enhancing immersion experience in games and 3D visualization fields. In general, hardware anti-aliasing is not directly compatible with deferred shading. It is challenging to detect geometry edges accurately from sub-pixel to alleviate artifacts. In this paper, we propose an anti-aliasing algorithm of the #-filter anti-aliasing based on sub-pixel continuous edges. It can solve the geometry edges aliasing and the flicker problem in deferred shading. First, the geometry scene with multi-sampling anti-aliasing (MSAA) is rendered to a G-Buffer designed elaborately. Second, the geometry edges are detected on the sub-pixel-level. We mainly take advantage of the Chebyshev inequality to adaptively determine the edges from the probability statistic and the view frustum location. Third, the continuous geometry edges are reconstructed by a #-filter method. Finally, the edge pixels are shaded adaptively. The implementation demonstrates that our algorithm is efficient and scalable for generating high-quality anti-aliasing geometry and reducing shading calculation overhead.
Definition and Estimation of Covariate Effect Types in the Context of Treatment Effectiveness
Authors: Chiba Yasutaka
Published: September 2020

In some clinical studies, assessing covariate effect types indicating whether a covariate is predictive and/or prognostic is of interest, in addition to the study endpoint. Recently, for a case with a binary outcome, Chiba (Clinical Trials, 2019; 16: 237–245) proposed the new concept of covariate effect type, which is assessed in terms of four response types, and showed that standard subgroup or regression analysis is applicable only in certain cases. Although this concept could be useful for supplementing conventional standard analysis, its application is limited to cases with a binary outcome. In this article, we aim to generalize Chiba’s concept to continuous and time-to-event outcomes. We define covariate effect types based on four response types. It is difficult to estimate the response types from the observed data without making certain assumptions, so we propose a simple method to estimate them under the assumption of independent potential outcomes. Our approach is illustrated using data from a clinical study with a time-to-event outcome.
Dielectrophoresis Separation of Platelets Using a Novel Zigzag Microchannel
Authors: Guan Yanfang , Liu Yansheng , Lei Hui , Liu Shihua , Xu Fengqian , Meng Xiangxin , Bai Mingyang , Wang Xiaoliang , Yang Gexuan
Published: September 2020

Platelet separation and purification are required in many applications including in the detection and treatment of hemorrhagic and thrombotic diseases, in addition to transfusions and in medical research. In this study, platelet separation was evaluated using a novel zigzag microchannel fluidic device while leveraging a dielectrophoresis (DEP) electric field using the COMSOL multiphysics software package and additional experimentation. The zigzag-shaped microchannel was superior to straight channel devices for cell separation because the sharp corners reduced the required horizontal distance needed for separation and also contributed to an asymmetric DEP electric field. A perfect linear relationship was observed between the separation distance and the corner angles. A quadratic relationship (R2 = 0.99) was observed between the driving voltage and the width and the lengths of the channel, allowing for optimization of these properties. In addition, the voltage was inversely proportional to the channel width and proportional to the channel length. An optimal velocity ratio of 1:4 was identified for the velocities of the two device inlets. The proposed device was fabricated using laser engraving and lithography with optimized structures including a 0.5 mm channel width, a 120° corner angle, a 0.3 mm channel depth, and a 17 mm channel length. A separation efficiency of 99.4% was achieved using a voltage of 20 V and a velocity ratio of 1:4. The easy fabrication, lower required voltage, label-free detection, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness of this device make it suitable for point-of-care medicine and biological applications. Moreover, it can be used for the separation of other types of compounds including lipids.
Geochemical Modeling Applied in Waste Disposal, and Its Relevance for Municipal Solid Waste Management
Authors: Araujo Francisco , Fantucci Hugo , Nunes Everton , Santos Rafael M.
Published: September 2020

Solid waste management is a challenge for municipalities mainly due to the increasing generation of residues worldwide. Much waste still ends up in landfills, either as a final disposal sink, or as a temporary yet long-term storage prior to eventual landfill mining. Through degradation and infiltration processes, these materials threaten groundwater, soil and the environment, invariably causing expressive societal concern. Waste managers, environmentalists and regulators alike focus upon predicting how these complex geochemical systems will evolve over decades. Geochemical modeling and transport simulation are commonly used to support the design, operation or characterization of these dynamic systems. In this targeted critical review of the literature over the last two decades concerning geochemical modeling applications to waste disposal (including municipal, incineration residue, and industrial), we have attempted to provide an assessment of the current state of knowledge in this field, supported by a comprehensive list of modeling methodologies and data analyses, relevant for municipal solid waste (MSW) management systems. The information provided is meant to be useful for specialists when planning, implementing or adapting MSW systems.
A New Ore Grade Estimation Using Combine Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Kaplan Umit Emrah , Topal Erkan
Published: September 2020

Accurate prediction of mineral grades is a fundamental step in mineral exploration and resource estimation, which plays a significant role in the economic evaluation of mining projects. Currently available methods are based either on geometrical approaches or geostatistical techniques that often considers the grade as a regionalised variable. In this paper, we propose a grade estimation technique that combines multilayer feed-forward neural network (NN) and k-nearest neighbour (kNN) models to estimate the grade distribution within a mineral deposit. The models were created by using the available geological information (lithology and alteration) as well as sample locations (easting, northing, and altitude) obtained from the drill hole data. The proposed approach explicitly maintains pattern recognition over the geological features and the chemical composition (mineral grade) of the data. Prior to the estimation of grades, rock types and alterations were predicted at unsampled locations using the kNN algorithm. The presented case study demonstrates that the proposed approach can predict the grades on a test dataset with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.507 and R2=0.528, whereas the traditional model, which only uses the coordinates of sample points as an input, yielded an MAE value of 0.862 and R2=0.112. The proposed approach is promising and could be an alternative way to estimates grades in a similar modelling tasks.
Archean Rocks of the Diorite Window Block in the Southern Framing of the Monchegorsk (2.5 Ga) Layered Mafic-Ultramafic Complex (Kola Peninsula, Russia)
Authors: Pripachkin Pavel , Rundkvist Tatiana , Groshev Nikolay , Bazai Aiya , Serov Pavel
Published: September 2020

The intermediate rocks classified as diorite-gneisses occur within the southern part of the Monchegorsk (2.5 Ga) layered mafic-ultramafic complex (Kola Peninsula, Russia). These diorite-gneisses belong to a block historically known as the diorite window (DW) block. The same rocks occur in a framing of the Monchegorsk complex. The DW block is predominantly composed of diorite-gneisses and, to a lesser degree, of amphibolites. Multi-ordinal banding, complex folding, boudinage and metamorphic transformations, garnet porphyroblasts, and tourmaline veinlets are typical of the diorite-gneisses. In accordance with the U-Pb isotope data, the age of the diorite-gneisses in the DW block is 2736.0 ± 4.6 Ma. The Sm-Nd mineral (garnet, biotite, and tourmaline) isochron for the DW rocks has yielded an age of 1806 ± 23 Ma (related to the processes of the Svecofennian orogeny). The DW diorite-gneisses are compared with the metadiorites of the Gabbro-10 massif. The latter is a part of the Monchegorsk complex, with U-Pb crystallization age of 2498 ± 6 Ma. On the basis of geological and isotope-geochemical data, it is shown that the DW rocks belong to the Archean basement while the Gabbro-10 metadiorites probably represent one of the late-magmatic phases of the Monchegorsk complex.
A Selenophene-Incorporated Metal–Organic Framework for Enhanced CO2 Uptake and Adsorption Selectivity
Authors: Demakov Pavel A. , Volynkin Sergey S. , Samsonenko Denis G. , Fedin Vladimir P. , Dybtsev Danil N.
Published: September 2020

A new metal–organic coordination polymer [Zn2(sedc)2(dabco)] (1se; sedc2− = selepophene-2,5-dicarboxylate; dabco = 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane) was synthesized and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. This MOF is based on {Zn2(OOCR)4N2} paddle wheels and is isoreticular to the family of [Zn2(bdc)2(dabco)] derivatives (1b; bdc2− = 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate) with pcu topology. The gas adsorption measurements revealed that 1se shows a 15% higher CO2 volumetric uptake at 273 K and 28% higher CO2 uptake at 298 K (both at 1 bar) compared to the prototypic framework 1b. Methane and nitrogen adsorption at 273 K was also investigated, and IAST calculations demonstrated a pronounced increase in CO2/CH4 and CO2/N2 selectivity for 1se, compared with 1b. For example, the selectivity factor for the equimolar CO2/CH4 gas mixture at 1 bar = 15.1 for 1se and 11.9 for 1b. The obtained results show a remarkable effect of the presence of selenium atom on the carbon dioxide affinity in the isoreticular metal–organic frameworks with very similar geometry and porosity.
Therapeutic Uses of Red Macroalgae
Authors: Ismail Mona M. , Alotaibi Badriyah S. , EL-Sheekh Mostafa M.
Published: September 2020

Red Seaweed “Rhodophyta” are an important group of macroalgae that include approximately 7000 species. They are a rich source of structurally diverse bioactive constituents, including protein, sulfated polysaccharides, pigments, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and phenolic compounds with nutritional, medical, and industrial importance. Polysaccharides are the main components in the cell wall of red algae and represent about 40–50% of the dry weight, which are extensively utilized in industry and pharmaceutical compounds, due to their thickening and gelling properties. The hydrocolloids galactans carrageenans and agars are the main red seaweed cell wall polysaccharides, which had broad-spectrum therapeutic characters. Generally, the chemical contents of seaweed are different according to the algal species, growth stage, environment, and external conditions, e.g., the temperature of the water, light intensity, nutrient concentrations in the ecosystem. Economically, they can be recommended as a substitute source for natural ingredients that contribute to a broad range of bioactivities like cancer therapy, anti-inflammatory agents, and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory. This review touches on the main points of the pharmaceutical applications of red seaweed, as well as the exploitation of their specific compounds and secondary metabolites with vital roles.
Biomimetic ZnO for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Orozco-Messana Javier
Published: September 2020

A research study on the application of biomimetic ZnO (from eggshell membranes) as photoanodes in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is presented. Biomimetic ZnO powder was produced and characterized. Its surface area, crystallinity, and morphology were analyzed and compared to commercial ZnO. Then, solar cells with and without dye were assembled using both the biomimetic and commercial oxides. On the dye-less cell, the oxide assumes the role of the photon absorber, while in the dye-sensitized cells, the oxide’s major function is the separation of the electron-hole pair and conduction of the electric charges formed. The characterization of the oxides showed that the biomimetic synthesis produced ZnO with a larger surface area, smaller crystallite size, and larger light absorption, possibly due to crystalline defects. SEM analysis on biomimetic ZnO revealed a tubular microstructure formed by nanocrystals, instead of the commercial powder showing spherical particles.
Your Spreadsheets Can Be FAIR: A Tool and FAIRification Workflow for the eNanoMapper Database
Authors: Kochev Nikolay , Jeliazkova Nina , Paskaleva Vesselina , Tancheva Gergana , Iliev Luchesar , Ritchie Peter , Jeliazkov Vedrin
Published: September 2020

The field of nanoinformatics is rapidly developing and provides data driven solutions in the area of nanomaterials (NM) safety. Safe by Design approaches are encouraged and promoted through regulatory initiatives and multiple scientific projects. Experimental data is at the core of nanoinformatics processing workflows for risk assessment. The nanosafety data is predominantly recorded in Excel spreadsheet files. Although the spreadsheets are quite convenient for the experimentalists, they also pose great challenges for the consequent processing into databases due to variability of the templates used, specific details provided by each laboratory and the need for proper metadata documentation and formatting. In this paper, we present a workflow to facilitate the conversion of spreadsheets into a FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) database, with the pivotal aid of the NMDataParser tool, developed to streamline the mapping of the original file layout into the eNanoMapper semantic data model. The NMDataParser is an open source Java library and application, making use of a JSON configuration to define the mapping. We describe the JSON configuration syntax and the approaches applied for parsing different spreadsheet layouts used by the nanosafety community. Examples of using the NMDataParser tool in nanoinformatics workflows are given. Challenging cases are discussed and appropriate solutions are proposed.
Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction and Electrocatalytic H2 Evolution over Pt(0,II,IV)-Loaded Oxidized Ti Sheets
Authors: Yang Ju Hyun , Park So Jeong , Rhee Choong Kyun , Sohn Youngku
Published: September 2020

Energy recycling and production using abundant atmospheric CO2 and H2O have increasingly attracted attention for solving energy and environmental problems. Herein, Pt-loaded Ti sheets were prepared by sputter-deposition and Pt4+-reduction methods, and their catalytic activities on both photocatalytic CO2 reduction and electrochemical hydrogen evolution were fully demonstrated. The surface chemical states were completely examined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy before and after CO2 reduction. Gas chromatography confirmed that CO, CH4, and CH3OH were commonly produced as CO2 reduction products with total yields up to 87.3, 26.9, and 88.0 μmol/mol, respectively for 700 °C-annealed Ti under UVC irradiation for 13 h. Pt-loading commonly negated the CO2 reduction yields, but CH4 selectivity was increased. Electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity showed the highest activity for sputter-deposited Pt on 400 °C-annealed Ti with a HER current density of 10.5 mA/cm2 at −0.5 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). The activities of CO2 reduction and HER were found to be significantly dependent on both the nature of Ti support and the oxidation states (0,II,IV) of overlayer Pt. The present result could provide valuable information for designing efficient Pt/Ti-based CO2 recycle photocatalysts and electrochemical hydrogen production catalysts.
Genotoxicity of Nanomaterials: Advanced In Vitro Models and High Throughput Methods for Human Hazard Assessment—A Review
Authors: Kohl Yvonne , Rundén-Pran Elise , Mariussen Espen , Hesler Michelle , El Yamani Naouale , Longhin Eleonora Marta , Dusinska Maria
Published: September 2020

Changes in the genetic material can lead to serious human health defects, as mutations in somatic cells may cause cancer and can contribute to other chronic diseases. Genotoxic events can appear at both the DNA, chromosomal or (during mitosis) whole genome level. The study of mechanisms leading to genotoxicity is crucially important, as well as the detection of potentially genotoxic compounds. We consider the current state of the art and describe here the main endpoints applied in standard human in vitro models as well as new advanced 3D models that are closer to the in vivo situation. We performed a literature review of in vitro studies published from 2000–2020 (August) dedicated to the genotoxicity of nanomaterials (NMs) in new models. Methods suitable for detection of genotoxicity of NMs will be presented with a focus on advances in miniaturization, organ-on-a-chip and high throughput methods.
The Recent Advances in the Mechanical Properties of Self-Standing Two-Dimensional MXene-Based Nanostructures: Deep Insights into the Supercapacitor
Authors: Ibrahim Yassmin , Mohamed Ahmed , Abdelgawad Ahmed M. , Eid Kamel , Abdullah Aboubakr M. , Elzatahry Ahmed
Published: September 2020

MXenes have emerged as promising materials for various mechanical applications due to their outstanding physicochemical merits, multilayered structures, excellent strength, flexibility, and electrical conductivity. Despite the substantial progress achieved in the rational design of MXenes nanostructures, the tutorial reviews on the mechanical properties of self-standing MXenes were not yet reported to our knowledge. Thus, it is essential to provide timely updates of the mechanical properties of MXenes, due to the explosion of publications in this filed. In pursuit of this aim, this review is dedicated to highlighting the recent advances in the rational design of self-standing MXene with unique mechanical properties for various applications. This includes elastic properties, ideal strengths, bending rigidity, adhesion, and sliding resistance theoretically as well as experimentally supported with various representative paradigms. Meanwhile, the mechanical properties of self-standing MXenes were compared with hybrid MXenes and various 2D materials. Then, the utilization of MXenes as supercapacitors for energy storage is also discussed. This review can provide a roadmap for the scientists to tailor the mechanical properties of MXene-based materials for the new generations of energy and sensor devices.
Pore- and Core-Scale Insights of Nanoparticle-Stabilized Foam for CO2-Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Alcorn Zachary Paul , Føyen Tore , Gauteplass Jarand , Benali Benyamine , Soyke Aleksandra , Fernø Martin
Published: September 2020

Nanoparticles have gained attention for increasing the stability of surfactant-based foams during CO2 foam-enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and CO2 storage. However, the behavior and displacement mechanisms of hybrid nanoparticle–surfactant foam formulations at reservoir conditions are not well understood. This work presents a pore- to core-scale characterization of hybrid nanoparticle–surfactant foaming solutions for CO2 EOR and the associated CO2 storage. The primary objective was to identify the dominant foam generation mechanisms and determine the role of nanoparticles for stabilizing CO2 foam and reducing CO2 mobility. In addition, we shed light on the influence of oil on foam generation and stability. We present pore- and core-scale experimental results, in the absence and presence of oil, comparing the hybrid foaming solution to foam stabilized by only surfactants or nanoparticles. Snap-off was identified as the primary foam generation mechanism in high-pressure micromodels with secondary foam generation by leave behind. During continuous CO2 injection, gas channels developed through the foam and the texture coarsened. In the absence of oil, including nanoparticles in the surfactant-laden foaming solutions did not result in a more stable foam or clearly affect the apparent viscosity of the foam. Foaming solutions containing only nanoparticles generated little to no foam, highlighting the dominance of surfactant as the main foam generator. In addition, foam generation and strength were not sensitive to nanoparticle concentration when used together with the selected surfactant. In experiments with oil at miscible conditions, foam was readily generated using all the tested foaming solutions. Core-scale foam-apparent viscosities with oil were nearly three times as high as experiments without oil present due to the development of stable oil/water emulsions and their combined effect with foam for reducing CO2 mobility
Abscisic Acid Treatment in Patients with Prediabetes
Authors: Derosa Giuseppe , Maffioli Pamela , D’Angelo Angela , Preti Paola S. , Tenore Giancarlo , Novellino Ettore
Published: September 2020

Aim: to evaluate the effects of abscisic acid (ABA), contained in dwarf peaches, on the regression of impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) conditions. Materials and methods: sixty-five patients with IFG or IGT were randomized to take ABA or placebo for 3 months. We evaluated: fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial plasma glucose (PPG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting plasma insulin (FPI), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipid profile and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP). At baseline, and after 3 months, all patients underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), an euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp, and a glucagon test. Results: a significant reduction of HbA1c, FPG, PPG, FPI and HOMA-IR was observed in the ABA group. After 3 months, 26.7% of patients returned to a normal glycemic status in the ABA group versus zero patients in placebo group; 20.0% were classified as IFG and 53.3% as IGT in the nutraceutical group versus 33.3% and 63.3% in the placebo group. The M value was higher in the ABA group at the end of the treatment. Finally, Hs-CRP was reduced after 3 months of ABA consumption. Conclusions: abscisic acid can be effective in ameliorating glyco-metabolic compensation and in reducing inflammatory status in patients with IFG or IGT.
Betaine Supplementation May Improve Heat Tolerance: Potential Mechanisms in Humans
Authors: Willingham Brandon D. , Ragland Tristan J. , Ormsbee Michael J.
Published: September 2020

Betaine has been demonstrated to increase tolerance to hypertonic and thermal stressors. At the cellular level, intracellular betaine functions similar to molecular chaperones, thereby reducing the need for inducible heat shock protein expression. In addition to stabilizing protein conformations, betaine has been demonstrated to reduce oxidative damage. For the enterocyte, during periods of reduced perfusion as well as greater oxidative, thermal, and hypertonic stress (i.e., prolonged exercise in hot-humid conditions), betaine results in greater villi length and evidence for greater membrane integrity. Collectively, this reduces exercise-induced gut permeability, protecting against bacterial translocation and endotoxemia. At the systemic level, chronic betaine intake has been shown to reduce core temperature, all-cause mortality, markers of inflammation, and change blood chemistry in several animal models when exposed to heat stress. Despite convincing research in cell culture and animal models, only one published study exists exploring betaine’s thermoregulatory function in humans. If the same premise holds true for humans, chronic betaine consumption may increase heat tolerance and provide another avenue of supplementation for those who find that heat stress is a major factor in their work, or training for exercise and sport. Yet, this remains speculative until data demonstrate such effects in humans.
The Effects of 6-Month Vitamin D Supplementation during the Non-Surgical Treatment of Periodontitis in Vitamin-D-Deficient Patients: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Perić Marina , Maiter Dominique , Cavalier Etienne , Lasserre Jérôme F. , Toma Selena
Published: September 2020

Background: This study assessed the effects of weekly vitamin D (VD) supplementation on clinical and biological parameters after scaling and root planning (SRP) in the treatment of periodontitis and served to validate the VD dosage regimen. Methods: It was a monocentric, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial with 6 months follow-up. Healthy Caucasian periodontitis patients presenting serum 25(OH) vitamin D3 below 30 ng/mL were randomly allocated to test group (SRP + VD 25,000 international units (IU)/week) or the control group (SRP + placebo). Results: A total of 59 patients were screened, 27 were included and 26 completed 3 months (M) and 21 completed 6M control. Test (n = 13) and control groups (n = 14) had similar 25(OH) vitamin D3 levels at baseline (17.6 ± 7.4 vs. 14.4 ± 5.2, respectively). After one month, there was a significant difference between groups (32.9 ± 5.2 vs. 16.1 ± 4.7), also seen at M3 and M6 (t-test, p < 0.001). Periodontal treatment was successful in both groups, since it resulted in a reduction of all measured clinical parameters at M3 and M6 (probing pocket depth (PPD), full mouth bleeding and plaque). However, the reduction in PPD was greater in the test group. Conclusions: In this short-term pilot study, no significant differences were observed between two groups. However, supplementation with VD tended to improve the treatment of periodontitis in patients with initial 25(OH) vitamin D3 < 30 ng/mL and proved safe and efficacious. NCT03162406.
Dietary Intake, Mediterranean Diet Adherence and Caloric Intake in Huntington’s Disease: A Review
Authors: Christodoulou Christiana C. , Demetriou Christiana A. , Zamba-Papanicolaou Eleni
Published: September 2020

Decades of research and experimental studies have investigated Huntington’s disease (HD), a rare neurodegenerative disease. Similarly, several studies have investigated whether high/moderate adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and specific macro and micronutrients can decrease cognitive loss and provide a neuroprotective function to neurons. This review systematically identifies and examines studies that have investigated Mediterranean Diet adherence, micro- and macronutrients, supplementation and caloric intake in people with HD, in order to identify if dietary exposures resulted in improvement of disease symptoms, a delay in age of onset or if they contributed to an earlier age of onset in people with HD. A systematic search of PubMed, Directory of open access journal and HubMed was performed independently by two reviewers using specific search terms criteria for studies. The identified abstracts were screened and the studies were included in the review if they satisfied predetermined inclusion criteria. Reference screening of included studies was also performed. A total of 18 studies were included in the review. A few studies found that patients who had high/moderate adherence to Mediterranean Diet showed a slight improvement in their Unified Huntington’s Disease Rating Scale and Total Functional Capacity. In addition, people with HD who had high Mediterranean Diet adherence showed an improvement in both cognitive and motor scores and had a better quality of life compared to patients who had low Mediterranean Diet adherence. Furthermore, a few studies showed that supplementation with specific nutrients, such as triheaptanoin, L-acetyl-carnitine and creatine, had no beneficial effect on the patients’ Unified Huntington’s Disease Rating Scale score. A few studies suggest that the Mediterranean Diet may confer a motor and cognitive benefit to people with HD. Unfortunately, there was little consistency among study findings. It is important for more research to be conducted to have a better understanding of which dietary exposures are beneficial and may result delaying age of onset or disease progression in people with HD.
The Effect of Athletes’ Probiotic Intake May Depend on Protein and Dietary Fiber Intake
Authors: Son Joy , Jang Lae-Guen , Kim Byung-Yong , Lee Sunghee , Park Hyon
Published: September 2020

Studies investigating exercise-induced gut microbiota have reported that people who exercise regularly have a healthy gut microbial environment compared with sedentary individuals. In contrast, recent studies have shown that high protein intake without dietary fiber not only offsets the positive effect of exercise on gut microbiota but also significantly lowers the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria. In this study, to resolve this conundrum and find the root cause, we decided to narrow down subjects according to diet. Almost all of the studies had subjects on an ad libitum diet, however, we wanted subjects on a simplified diet. Bodybuilders who consumed an extremely high-protein/low-carbohydrate diet were randomly assigned to a probiotics intake group (n = 8) and a placebo group (n = 7) to find the intervention effect. Probiotics, comprising Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. casei, L. helveticus, and Bifidobacterium bifidum, were consumed for 60 days. As a result, supplement intake did not lead to a positive effect on the gut microbial environment or concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). It has been shown that probiotic intake is not as effective as ergogenic aids for athletes such as bodybuilders with extreme dietary regimens, especially protein and dietary fiber. To clarify the influence of nutrition-related factors that affect the gut microbial environment, we divided the bodybuilders (n = 28) into groups according to their protein and dietary fiber intake and compared their gut microbial environment with that of sedentary male subjects (n = 15). Based on sedentary Korean recommended dietary allowance (KRDA), the bodybuilders′ intake of protein and dietary fiber was categorized into low, proper, and excessive groups, as follows: high-protein/restricted dietary fiber (n = 12), high-protein/adequate dietary fiber (n = 10), or adequate protein/restricted dietary fiber (n = 6). We found no significant differences in gut microbial diversity or beneficial bacteria between the high-protein/restricted dietary fiber and the healthy sedentary groups. However, when either protein or dietary fiber intake met the KRDA, gut microbial diversity and the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria showed significant differences to those of healthy sedentary subjects. These results suggest that the positive effect of exercise on gut microbiota is dependent on protein and dietary fiber intake. The results also suggest that the question of adequate nutrition should be addressed before supplementation with probiotics to derive complete benefits from the intervention.
Iron Pathways and Iron Chelation Approaches in Viral, Microbial, and Fungal Infections
Authors: Chhabra Ravneet , Saha Aishwarya , Chamani Ashkon , Schneider Nicole , Shah Riya , Nanjundan Meera
Published: September 2020

Iron is an essential element required to support the health of organisms. This element is critical for regulating the activities of cellular enzymes including those involved in cellular metabolism and DNA replication. Mechanisms that underlie the tight control of iron levels are crucial in mediating the interaction between microorganisms and their host and hence, the spread of infection. Microorganisms including viruses, bacteria, and fungi have differing iron acquisition/utilization mechanisms to support their ability to acquire/use iron (e.g., from free iron and heme). These pathways of iron uptake are associated with promoting their growth and virulence and consequently, their pathogenicity. Thus, controlling microorganismal survival by limiting iron availability may prove feasible through the use of agents targeting their iron uptake pathways and/or use of iron chelators as a means to hinder development of infections. This review will serve to assimilate findings regarding iron and the pathogenicity of specific microorganisms, and furthermore, find whether treating infections mediated by such organisms via iron chelation approaches may have potential clinical benefit.
The Potential of Graphene Nanoplatelets in the Development of Smart and Multifunctional Ecocomposites
Authors: Pereira Pedro , Ferreira Diana P. , Araújo Joana C. , Ferreira Armando , Fangueiro Raul
Published: September 2020

Graphene and its derivatives have shown outstanding potential in many fields and textile/composites industry are not an exception. Giving their extraordinary properties, Graphene Nanoplatelets (GNPs) are excellent candidates for providing new functionalities to fibers and composites. In this work, natural fabrics (flax) were functionalized with chitosan (CS) based polymeric formulations of GNPs to develop fibrous systems with electrical properties as well as other functionalities. One of the greatest disadvantages of using carbon-based materials for fabrics’ impregnation is their difficult dispersion. Therefore, several polymers were used as matrices, binding and dispersive agents including chitosan, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and glycerol. All the systems were characterized using several techniques that demonstrated the presence and incorporation of the GNPs onto the composites. Besides their characterization, considering their use as smart materials for monitoring and sensing applications, electrical properties were also evaluated. The highest value obtained for electrical conductivity was 0.04 S m−1 using 2% of GNPs. Furthermore, piezoresistive behavior was observed with Gauge Factor (GF) of 1.89 using 0.5% GNPs. Additionally, UV (ultraviolet) protection ability and hydrophobicity were analyzed, confirming the multifunctional behavior of the developed systems extending their potential of application in several areas.
Free-Radical Bulk-Photopolymerization Process as a Method of Obtaining Thermally Curable Structural Self-Adhesive Tapes and Effect of Used Type I Photoinitiators
Authors: Gziut Konrad , Kowalczyk Agnieszka , Schmidt Beata
Published: September 2020

A new fabrication method for thin (120 µm) thermally curable structural self-adhesive tapes (SATs) was demonstrated by utilizing a series of acrylic syrups (ASs) modified using Bisphenol A-based liquid epoxy resin. The acrylic syrups containing poly(butyl acrylate-co-butyl methacrylate-co-glycidyl methacrylate-co-2-hydroxyetyl acrylate-co-4-acryloyloxy benzophenone) were synthesized via free-radical bulk-photopolymerization (FRBP) process. Influence of different type I radical photoinitiators (PIs), i.e., α-hydroxyalkylphenones (HPs), acylphosphine oxides (APOs) and its mixtures (HPs/APOs and APO/APO) on selected physico-chemical features of obtained ASs was studied. It turned out that APO-type PIs are more effective in the FRBP process (NMR studies). Self-adhesive tests of SATs revealed that the monomers’ conversion in ASs have a significant influence on adhesion and tack. Moreover, the polymer structures formed at the UV cross-linking stage of SATs significantly affect the cross-linking degree of SATs during thermal curing (differential scanning calorimetry method). The highest values of overlap shear strength were achieved by SATs based on ASs with monomers’ conversion on the level 50–60%.
Crystallization and Alkaline Degradation Behaviors of Poly(l-Lactide)/4-Armed Poly(ε-Caprolactone)-Block-Poly(d-Lactide) Blends with Different Poly(d-Lactide) Block Lengths
Authors: Dai Suyang , Wang Min , Zhuang Zhuoxin , Ning Zhenbo
Published: September 2020

Four-armed poly(ε-caprolactone)-block-poly(d-lactide) (4-C-D) copolymers with different poly(d-lactide) (PDLA) block lengths (Mn,PDLAs) were synthesized by sequential ring-opening polymerization (ROP). The formation of stereocomplex (SC) crystallites in the 80/20 poly(l-lactide) (PLLA)/4-C-D blends were investigated with the change of Mn,PDLA from 0.5 to 1.5 kg/mol. It was found that the crystallization and alkaline degradation of the blends were profoundly affected by the formed SC crystallites. The PLLA/4-C-D0.5 blend had the lowest crystallization rate of the three blends, and it was difficult to see spherulites in this blend by polarized optical microscopy (POM) observation after isothermal crystallization at 140 °C for 4 h. Meanwhile, when Mn,PDLA was 1 kg/mol or 1.5 kg/mol, SC crystallites could be formed in the PLLA/4-C-D blend and acted as nucleators for the crystallization of PLLA homo-crystals. However, the overall crystallization rates of the two blends were still lower than that of the neat PLLA. In the PLLA/4-C-D1.5 blend, the Raman results showed that small isolated SC spherulites were trapped inside the big PLLA homo-spherulites during isothermal crystallization. The degradation rate of the PLLA/4-C-D blend decreased when Mn,PDLA increased from 0.5 to 1.5 kg/mol, and the degradation morphologies had a close relationship with the crystallization state of the blends. This work revealed the gradual formation of SC crystallites with the increase in Mn,PDLA in the PLLA/4-C-D blends and its significant effect on the crystallization and degradation behaviors of the blend films.
Characterization and Long-Term Stability of Historical PMMA: Impact of Additives and Acrylic Sheet Industrial Production Processes
Authors: Babo Sara , Ferreira Joana Lia , Ramos Ana Maria , Micheluz Anna , Pamplona Marisa , Casimiro Maria Helena , Ferreira Luís M. , Melo Maria João
Published: September 2020

This work aims at understanding the influence of the production processes and materials in the properties and long term behavior of acrylic sheet, i.e., poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), a material generally considered very stable in museum collections. A comparative study was conducted in samples from cast acrylic sheets produced in the early 2000s, from which manufacturing details were known, and samples provided by the artist Lourdes Castro from acrylic sheets she had bought in the 1960s. Transparent and red opaque cast acrylic samples, containing cadmium red pigment, were used. All samples were artificially aged in a solarbox with irradiation λ > 300 nm for a total period of 8000 h, and alterations were followed by a multi-analytical approach which included Raman, infrared (FTIR-ATR) and UV-Vis spectroscopies; gravimetry; size exclusion chromatography (SEC); thermogravimetry (TGA); micro-indentation; colorimetry; and optical microscopy. Not all cast PMMA sheets presented similar stabilities. We have concluded that the production processes (which may include the polymerization conditions, the organic additives and the origin of the monomer) play a more important role in the properties and long-term behavior of these acrylic sheets than the presence of cadmium red and/or the age of the material.
A Modified Technique for Fabricating Customized Angled Dual Abutments for Implants with Severe Angulations
Authors: Saboury Aboulfazl , Beyabanaki Elaheh
Published: September 2020

Ideally, dental implants should be placed parallel to each other and perpendicular to the occlusal forces. However, they might be implanted with undesirable angulations due to anatomic limitations such as proximity to infra alveolar nerve or maxillary sinus or dentist incompetency. Improper angulation is often addressed at the prosthetic stage of the treatment via using angled abutments. However, severely angled implants could be more challenging regarding the restoration of both esthetics and function. This article presents a cost effective, simple and practical method for fabricating customized angled abutments for restoring severely angled abutments.