bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppression of Tip Vortex Cavitation Noise of Propellers using PressurePoresTM Technology
Authors: Aktas Batuhan , Yilmaz Naz , Atlar Mehmet , Sasaki Noriyuki , Fitzsimmons Patrick , Taylor David
Published: March 2020

This study aims to demonstrate the merits of pressure-relieving holes at the tip region of propellers, which is introduced as “PressurePoresTM” technology as a retrofit on marine propellers to mitigate tip vortex cavitation noise for a quieter propeller. Shipping noise originates from various sources on board a vessel, amongst which the propeller cavitation is considered to dominate the overall radiated noise spectrum above the inception threshold. Thus, by strategically introducing pressure-relieving holes to modify the presence of cavitation, a reduction in the overall cavitation volume can be achieved. This mitigation technique could consequently result in a reduction of the radiated noise levels while maintaining the design efficiency as much as possible or with the least compromise. The strategic implementation of the holes was mainly aimed to reduce the tip vortex cavitation as this is one of the major contributors to the underwater noise emissions of a ship. In this paper, the details and results of a complementary numerical and experimental investigation is presented to further develop this mitigation concept for underwater radiated noise (URN) and to validate its effectiveness at model scale using a research vessel propeller. An overall finding from this study indicated that a significant reduction in cavitation noise could be achieved (up to 17 dB) at design speed with a favourable strategic arrangement of the pressure pores. Such a reduction was particularly evident in the frequency regions of utmost importance for marine fauna while the propeller lost only 2% of its efficiency.
Uncertainty Quantification in Mooring Cable Dynamics Using Polynomial Chaos Expansions
Authors: Moura Paredes Guilherme , Eskilsson Claes , P. Engsig-Karup Allan
Published: March 2020

Mooring systems exhibit high failure rates. This is especially problematic for offshore renewable energy systems, like wave and floating wind, where the mooring system can be an active component and the redundancy in the design must be kept low. Here we investigate how uncertainty in input parameters propagates through the mooring system and affects the design and dynamic response of mooring and floaters. The method used is a nonintrusive surrogate based uncertainty quantification (UQ) approach based on generalized Polynomial Chaos (gPC). We investigate the importance of the added mass, tangential drag, and normal drag coefficient of a catenary mooring cable on the peak tension in the cable. It is found that the normal drag coefficient has the greatest influence. However, the uncertainty in the coefficients plays a minor role for snap loads. Using the same methodology we analyze how deviations in anchor placement impact the dynamics of a floating axi-symmetric point-absorber. It is shown that heave and pitch are largely unaffected but surge and cable tension can be significantly altered. Our results are important towards streamlining the analysis and design of floating structures. Improving the analysis to take into account uncertainties is especially relevant for offshore renewable energy systems where the mooring system is a considerable portion of the investment.
Finding Coastal Megaclast Deposits: A Virtual Perspective
Authors: Ruban Dmitry A.
Published: March 2020

Coastal megaclast deposits are dominated by detrital particles larger than 1 m in size. These attract significant attention of modern researchers because of the needs of sedimentary rock nomenclature development and interpretation of storm and tsunami signatures on seashores. If so, finding localities that exhibit coastal megaclast deposits is an important task. Field studies do not offer a quick solution, and, thus, remote sensing tools have to be addressed. The application of the Google Earth Engine has permitted to find four new localities, namely Hondarribia in northern Spain (Biscay Bay), the Ponza Island in Italy (Tyrrhenian Sea), the Wetar Island in eastern Indonesia (Banda Sea), and the Humboldt o Coredo Bay at the Colombia/Panama border (eastern Pacific). In these localities, coastal megaclast deposits consisting of blocks (1–10 m in size) and some megablocks (>10 m in size) are delineated and preliminary described in regard to the dominant size of particles, package density, mode of occurrence, etc. The limitations of such virtual surveys of coastal megaclast deposits are linked to an insufficiently high resolution of satellite images, as well as ‘masking’ effects of vegetation cover and cliff shadows. However, these limitations do not diminish the importance of the Google Earth Engine for finding these deposits. Consideration of some tourism-related information, including photos captured by tourists and bouldering catalogues, facilitates search for promising areas for subsequent virtual surveying of megaclast distribution. It is also established that the Google Earth Engine permits quantitative analysis of composition of coastal megaclast deposits in some areas, as well as to register decade-long dynamics or stability of these deposits, which is important to interpret their origin. The current opportunities for automatic detection of coastal megaclast deposits seem to be restricted.
Operational Probabilistic Forecasting of Coastal Freak Waves by Using an Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Doong Dong-Jiing , Chen Shien-Tsung , Chen Ying-Chih , Tsai Cheng-Han
Published: March 2020

Coastal freak waves (CFWs) are unpredictable large waves that occur suddenly in coastal areas and have been reported to cause casualties worldwide. CFW forecasting is difficult because the complex mechanisms that cause CFWs are not well understood. This study proposes a probabilistic CFW forecasting model that is an advance on the basis of a previously proposed deterministic CFW forecasting model. This study also develops a probabilistic forecasting scheme to make an artificial neural network model achieve the probabilistic CFW forecasting. Eight wave and meteorological variables that are physically related to CFW occurrence were used as the inputs for the artificial neural network model. Two forecasting models were developed for these inputs. Model I adopted buoy observations, whereas Model II used wave model simulation data. CFW accidents in the coastal areas of northeast Taiwan were used to calibrate and validate the model. The probabilistic CFW forecasting model can perform predictions every 6 h with lead times of 12 and 24 h. The validation results demonstrated that Model I outperformed Model II regarding accuracy and recall. In 2018, the developed CFW forecasting models were investigated in operational mode in the Operational Forecast System of the Taiwan Central Weather Bureau. Comparing the probabilistic forecasting results with swell information and actual CFW occurrences demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed probabilistic CFW forecasting model.
Microstructure and Wear Behavior of Tungsten Hot-Work Steel after Boriding and Boroaluminizing
Authors: Mishigdorzhiyn Undrakh , Chen Yan , Ulakhanov Nikolay , Liang Hong
Published: March 2020

(1) Background: Boron-based diffusion layers possess great application potential in forging and die-casting due to their favorable mechanical and thermophysical properties. This research explores the enhanced wear resistance of tungsten hot-work steel through boriding and boroaluminizing. (2) Methods: Thermal-chemical treatment (TCT) of steel H21 was carried out. Pure boriding was introduced to the substrate through heating a paste of boron carbide and sodium fluoride 1050 °C for two hours. As for boroaluminizing, 16% of aluminum powder was added to the boriding paste. (3) Results: It was shown that boriding resulted in the formation of an FeB/Fe2B layer with a tooth-like structure. A completely different microstructure was revealed after boroaluminizing—namely, diffusion layer with heterogeneous structure, where hard components FeB and Mx (B,C) were displaced in the matrix of softer phases—Fe3Al and α-Fe. In addition, the layer thickness increased from 105 μm to 560 μm (compared to pure boriding). The maximum microhardness values reached 2900 HV0.1 after pure boriding, while for boroaluminizing it was about 2000 HV0.1. (4) Conclusions: It was revealed that the mass loss during wear test reduced by two times after boroaluminizing and 13 times after boriding compared to the hardened sample after five-min testing.
On the Covering Radius of Codes over

Z

p
k
Authors: Cruz Mohan , Durairajan Chinnapillai , Solé Patrick
Published: March 2020

In this correspondence, we investigate the covering radius of various types of repetition codes over Z p k ( k ≥ 2 ) with respect to the Lee distance. We determine the exact covering radius of the various repetition codes, which have been constructed using the zero divisors and units in Z p k . We also derive the lower and upper bounds on the covering radius of block repetition codes over Z p k .
Effect of Multi-Pass Caliber Rolling on Dilute Extruded Mg-Bi-Ca Alloy
Authors: Meng Shuaiju , Yu Hui , Han Haisheng , Feng Jianhang , Huang Lixin , Dong Lishan , Nan Xiaolong , Li Zhongjie , Park Sung Hyuk , Zhao Weimin
Published: March 2020

A Mg-1.32Bi-0.72Ca (BX11) alloy having bimodal grain structure was successfully prepared by a novel processing route of combining extrusion and three-pass caliber rolling. The first extruded and then caliber-rolled (E-CRed) alloy demonstrates a necklace-like grain structure with ultrafine grains formed around the microscale deformed grains, which is remarkably different from the uniform microstructure of the as-extruded alloy. In addition, the E-CRed BX11 alloy exhibits strong basal texture which is mainly original from the microscale deformed grains. Furthermore, the E-CRed BX11 alloy demonstrates excellent comprehensive mechanical properties, with an ultra-high yield strength of 351 MPa and a good elongation to failure of 13.2%. The significant strength improvement can be mainly attributed to the significant grain refinement and much stronger basal texture compared with the as-extruded sample.
Stabilization Mechanism of Semi-Solid Film Simulating the Cell Wall during Fabrication of Aluminum Foam
Authors: Kuwahara Takashi , Kaya Akira , Osaka Taro , Takamatsu Satomi , Suzuki Shinsuke
Published: March 2020

Semi-solid route is a fabrication method of aluminum foam where the melt is thickened by primary crystals. In this study, semi-solid aluminum alloy films were made to observe and evaluate the stabilization mechanism of cell walls in Semi-solid route. Each film was held at different solid fractions and holding times. In lower solid fractions, as the holding time increases, the remaining melt in the films lessens and this could be explained by Poiseuille flow. However, the decreasing tendency of the remaining melt in the films lessens as the solid fraction increases. Moreover, when the solid fraction is high, decreasing tendency was not observed. These are because at a certain moment, clogging of primary crystals occurs under the thinnest part of the film and drainage is largely suppressed. Moreover, clogging is occurring in solid fraction of 20–45% under the thinnest part of the film. Moreover, the time to occur clogging becomes earlier as the solid fraction increases.
Hot Strip Mill Processing Simulations on a Ti-Mo Microalloyed Steel Using Hot Torsion Testing
Authors: Felker Caleb A. , Speer John G. , De Moor Emmanuel , Findley Kip O.
Published: March 2020

Precipitation strengthened, fully ferritic microstructures in low-carbon, microalloyed steels are used in applications requiring enhanced stretch-flange formability. This work assesses the influence of thermomechanical processing on the evolution of austenite and the associated final ferritic microstructures. Hot strip mill processing simulations were performed on a low-carbon, titanium-molybdenum microalloyed steel using hot torsion testing to investigate the effects of extensive differences in austenite strain accumulation on austenite morphology and microstructural development after isothermal transformation. The gradient of imposed shear strain with respect to radial position inherent to torsion testing was utilized to explore the influence of strain on microstructural development for a given simulation, and a tangential cross-section technique was employed to quantify the amount of shear strain that accumulated within the austenite during testing. Greater austenite shear strain accumulation resulted in greater refinement of both the prior austenite and polygonal ferrite grain sizes. Further, polygonal ferrite grain diameter distributions were narrowed, and the presence of hard, secondary phase constituents was minimized, with greater amounts of austenite strain accumulation. The results indicate that extensive austenite strain accumulation before decomposition is required to achieve desirable, ferritic microstructures.
Characterization of the Friction Coefficient of Aluminum Alloy 6061 in Ultra-Precision Machining
Authors: Wang Hailong , Zhang Tao , Wang Sujuan , To Suet
Published: March 2020

Aluminum alloy 6061(Al6061), an Al-Mg-Si alloy, is a precipitation-hardened alloy. The generation of precipitate affects its mechanical properties, and induces a worse surface finish during diamond cutting. The friction coefficients of the tool-chip and tool-workpiece interfaces influence temperature rise, and are therefore important predictors of tool wear and surface integrity during the diamond cutting of Al6061. This study investigated the relationship between precipitate generation and the friction coefficients of Al6061. Groups of experiments were conducted to study the influence of temperature and heating time on the number of precipitates and the friction coefficients. The results show that the generation of AlFeSi particles induces cracks, scratch marks and pits on diamond-machined Al6061 and affects the cutting forces. Moreover, the variation trend of the friction coefficient of Al6061 under different heating conditions agrees well with that of the number of AlFeSi particles. This implies that, during ultra-precision machining of precipitation-hardened alloys, cutting-induced heat causes precipitates to form on the chips and machined surface, changing their material properties. This affects the tool-workpiece and tool–chip contact conditions and the mechanisms of chip formation and surface generation in ultra-precision machining.
Simulation of Adiabatic Shear Bands in Orthogonal Machining of Ti6Al4V Using a Rigid-Viscoplastic Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Friderikos Orestis , Sagris Dimitrios , David Constantine N. , Korlos Apostolos
Published: March 2020

Catastrophic shear instability is the dominant mechanism during orthogonal cutting of Ti6Al4V. Chip segmentation even at low speeds testifies to the emergence of some kind of instability during plastic deformation of the material. Among the theoretical models, catastrophic thermoplastic slip is proposed as a mechanism to explain the destabilization of homogeneous plastic deformation, which results in localized, band-like adiabatic shear deformation. On the other hand, fracture models which consider machining as a mechanism of ductile or brittle fracture are used to explain the segmented chip formation as a periodic crack generation mechanism. This work aims at elucidating the fundamental mechanisms of the above theoretical models using a coupled thermomechanical rigid-viscoplastic FEM analysis. Introducing an energy criterion for ductile damage, numerical results showed that failure within the adiabatic shear band (ASB) is a post-localization mechanism occurring after intense shear localization. Simulations revealed a void initiation and coalescence mechanism which resembles an array of discontinuous degraded elements of nearly ellipsoidal shapes that grows and progressively coalesces forming a macro crack inside the ASB. Several aspects of ASB formation are addressed, among others, the micro-scale spatial temperature profile, parametric studies of critical damage energies, chip segmentation frequency, etc. Experimental results of ASB formation pertaining to chip morphology and cutting forces are compiled and analyzed to evaluate the FEM model at the low speed regime.
In Vitro Probiotic Potential and Safety Evaluation (Hemolytic, Cytotoxic Activity) of Bifidobacterium Strains Isolated from Raw Camel Milk
Authors: Yasmin Iqra , Saeed Muhammad , Khan Wahab Ali , Khaliq Adnan , Chughtai Muhammad Farhan Jahangir , Iqbal Rabia , Tehseen Saima , Naz Saima , Liaqat Atif , Mehmood Tariq , Ahsan Samreen , Tanweer Saira
Published: March 2020

The present study was designed to isolate Bifidobacterium strains from raw camel milk and to investigate their probiotic characteristics. Among 35 isolates, 8 were identified as Gram-positive, catalase negative, non-spore forming, non-motile and V or Y shaped rods. B-2, B-5, B-11, B-19 and B-28 exhibited good survival at low pH and high bile salt concentration. Most of the isolates were resistant to nalidixic acid, fusidic acid, polymyxin B, neomycin, streptomycin, gentamicin, rifampicin and kanamycin. Furthermore, the production of exopolysaccharides (EPS), adhesion characteristics, antioxidant properties, antagonistic activities, nitrite reduction and cholesterol assimilation were also studied. Isolate B-11 was chosen because it exhibited most of the probiotic properties among all the tested isolates. It is identified as the member of Bifidobacterium longum group through 16S rRNA gene sequencing and named as B. longum B-11. B. longum B-11 was further selected for in vivo attachment to rat intestine and scanning electron micrographs revealed that attachment of a large number of rods shaped bacterial cell. Our findings suggest that B. longum B-11 processes excellent attributes to be used as potential probiotic in the development of functional probiotic food.
Inactivation of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli in Refrigerated and Frozen Meatballs Using High Pressure Processing
Authors: Porto-Fett Anna C. S. , Jackson-Davis Armitra , Kassama Lamin S. , Daniel Marciauna , Oliver Michelle , Jung YangJin , Luchansky John B.
Published: March 2020

High pressure processing (HPP) was evaluated to inactivate Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in raw meatballs. Ground meat (>90% lean) was inoculated (ca. 7.0 log CFU/g) with a rifampicin-resistant cocktail of eight STEC strains (O26:H11, O45:H2, O103:H2, O104:H4, O111:H-, O121:H19, O145:NM, and O157:H7). Inoculated ground beef, ground veal, or a mixture of ground beef, pork, and veal were separately mixed with liquid whole eggs and seasonings, shaped by hand into meatballs (40 g each), and stored at −20 or at 4 °C for at least 18 h. Samples were then exposed to 400 or 600 MPa for 0 to 18 min. There were no differences (p > 0.05) in pathogen reduction related to the species of meat used or for meatballs that were refrigerated (0.9 to 2.9 log CFU/g) compared to otherwise similar meatballs that were stored frozen (1.0 to 3.0 log CFU/g) prior to HPP treatment. However, less time was needed to achieve a ≥ 2.0 log CFU/g reduction at 600 MPa (1 to 3 min) compared to 400 MPa (at least 9 min). This work provides new and practically useful information on the use of HPP to inactivate STEC in raw meatballs.
5th-Century BC Himera and the Campanian Connection: Petrographic and Archaeological Studies on Western Greek Amphorae from Poseidonia and Elea Unearthed in the Necropolis of Himera
Authors: De Bonis Alberto , Gassner Verena , Ntaflos Theodoros , Rizzo Maria Luigia , Sauer Roman , Serritella Antonia , Vassallo Stefano , Bechtold Babette
Published: March 2020

Within the frame of an in-depth study of the corpus of about 560 western Greek transport amphorae (6th–5th century BC) yielded from excavations at the necropolis of the Dorian-Chalcidian colony of Himera in North-western Sicily, one of the most interesting issues consists in the determination of their provenance. Based on archaeological considerations, nearly 100 items have been attributed to southern Campania, specifically to Poseidonia and Elea. The present paper proposes a detailed combined archaeological-archaeometric investigation of 16 samples discovered at Himera and one at Jerba (Tunisia), of presumed Campanian provenance, compared with 4 local reference samples from Poseidonia and 6 samples of western Greek amphorae found at Pithekoussai and Elea, attributed to Poseidonia by previous archaeometric analysis. All samples have been submitted to a macroscopic fabric examination according to the standard methods of FACEM (Fabrics of the Central Mediterranean) and to petrographic investigation (polarised light microscopy) and digital image analyses of microstructures. Our study points to a Campanian provenance of the investigated amphorae and their distinction in a large group from Poseidonia and a small group from Elea. The identification of a numerous assemblage of 5th century BC Poseidonian transport vessels at Himera substantially underlines an earlier hypothesis about its ‘Campanian connection’ and allows for the reconstruction of an important Tyrrhenian commercial axis.
Identifying Geochemical Anomalies Associated with Gold Mineralization Using Factor Analysis and Spectrum–Area Multifractal Model in Laowan District, Qinling-Dabie Metallogenic Belt, Central China
Authors: Wu Ruoyu , Chen Jianli , Zhao Jiangnan , Chen Jinduo , Chen Shouyu
Published: March 2020

The Laowan deposit is a typical gold deposit in the Qinling-Dabie metallogenic belt, which produces the most gold resources in Central China. After being explored for decades, follow-up exploration requires additional theoretical support. In this study, the factor analysis (FA) and spectrum–area (S–A) multifractal model were used to process multi-element geochemical data from 369 samples collected in the study area for identifying the geochemical anomalies associated with gold mineralization. The results showed that: (1) the mean Au content in this region is up to 1000 times higher than the Au background values of the upper crust of the South Qinling unit; (2) the factor analysis revealed that Au, Ag, Cu, As, Sb, and S can be used as direct ore-prospecting criteria; (3) the observed elemental zonation is consistent with the zonation of metallic elements in the magmatic–hydrothermal system. This supports the magmatic–hydrothermal origin of the Laowan deposit; (4) the spectrum–area fractal model can help to decompose the geochemical patterns in a complex geological setting. The decomposed geochemical anomaly map obtained by the S–A multifractal model indicated that highly anomalous areas have a great relationship with the Au occurrence and can be a guidance for further exploration in the study area.
Effects of a Rotating Cone on the Mixed Convection in a Double Lid-Driven 3D Porous Trapezoidal Nanofluid Filled Cavity under the Impact of Magnetic Field
Authors: Chamkha Ali J. , Selimefendigil Fatih , Oztop Hakan F.
Published: March 2020

Effects of a rotating cone in 3D mixed convection of CNT-water nanofluid in a double lid-driven porous trapezoidal cavity is numerically studied considering magnetic field effects. The numerical simulations are performed by using the finite element method. Impacts of Richardson number (between 0.05 and 50), angular rotational velocity of the cone (between −300 and 300), Hartmann number (between 0 and 50), Darcy number (between 10 − 4 and 5 × 10 − 2 ), aspect ratio of the cone (between 0.25 and 2.5), horizontal location of the cone (between 0.35 H and 0.65 H) and solid particle volume fraction (between 0 and 0.004) on the convective heat transfer performance was studied. It was observed that the average Nusselt number rises with higher Richardson numbers for stationary cone while the effect is reverse for when the cone is rotating in clockwise direction at the highest supped. Higher discrepancies between the average Nusselt number is obtained for 2D cylinder and 3D cylinder configuration which is 28.5% at the highest rotational speed. Even though there are very slight variations between the average Nu values for 3D cylinder and 3D cone case, there are significant variations in the local variation of the average Nusselt number. Higher enhancements in the average Nusselt number are achieved with CNT particles even though the magnetic field reduced the convection and the value is 84.3% at the highest strength of magnetic field. Increasing the permeability resulted in higher local and average heat transfer rates for the 3D porous cavity. In this study, the aspect ratio of the cone was found to be an excellent tool for heat transfer enhancement while 95% enhancements in the average Nusselt number were obtained. The horizontal location of the cone was found to have slight effects on the Nusselt number variations.
Structural Modification of Nanomicelles through Phosphatidylcholine: The Enhanced Drug-Loading Capacity and Anticancer Activity of Celecoxib-Casein Nanoparticles for the Intravenous Delivery of Celecoxib
Authors: Xv Liuli , Qian Xinxin , Wang Yan , Yu Chenghuan , Qin Dingkui , Zhang Yahui , Jin Peng , Du Qizhen
Published: March 2020

This study aims to stabilize loaded celecoxib (CX) by modifying the structure of casein nanoparticles through phosphatidylcholine. The results show that Egg yolk phosphatidylcholine PC98T (PC) significantly increased the stability of CX-PC-casein nanoparticles (NPs) (192.6 nm) from 5 min (CX-β-casein-NPs) to 2.5 h at 37 °C. In addition, the resuspended freeze-dried NPs (202.4 nm) remained stable for 2.5 h. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that PC may block the micropore structures in nanoparticles by ultrasonic treatment and hence improve the physicochemical stability of CX-PC-casein-NPs. The stability of the NPs was positively correlated with their inhibiting ability for human malignant melanoma A375 cells. The structural modification of CX-PC-casein-NPs resulted in an increased intracellular uptake of CX by 2.4 times than that of the unmodified ones. The pharmacokinetic study showed that the Area Under Curve (AUC) of the CX-PC-casein-NPs was 2.9-fold higher in rats than that of the original casein nanoparticles. When CX-PC-casein-NPs were intravenously administrated to mice implanted with A375 tumors (CX dose = 16 mg/kg bodyweight), the tumor inhibition rate reached 56.2%, which was comparable to that of paclitaxel (57.3%) at a dose of 4 mg/kg bodyweight. Our results confirm that the structural modification of CX-PC-casein-NPs can effectively prolong the remaining time of specific drugs, and may provide a potential strategy for cancer treatment.
Construction of BPQDs/Ti3C2@TiO2 Composites with Favorable Charge Transfer Channels for Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Yao Ziyu , Sun Huajun , Sui Huiting , Liu Xiaofang
Published: March 2020

Design and construction of double heterojunction is favorable to improve the separation and migration efficiency of photogenerated carriers, thus preferably solve the problems of environmental pollution and energy crisis. Herein, TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) are in-situ grown on highly conductive Ti3C2 nanosheets via low-temperature hydrothermal strategy, and then black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs) are introduced on the surface of TiO2 NPs. Under hydrothermal temperature 120 °C, the BPQDs/Ti3C2@TiO2 photocatalyst exhibits remarkable enhanced photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) compared with BPQDs/Ti3C2 and Ti3C2@TiO2 composites. Enhanced photocatalytic activity can be attributed to (i) the BPQDs with tunable bandgaps are deposited on the TiO2 NPs to form intimate heterojunction, which facilitates the electrons transfer from the conduction band (CB) of BPQDs to the CB of TiO2; (ii) the electrons quickly migrate from CB of TiO2 NPs to the Ti3C2 nanosheets with excellent electronic conductivity via electron transfer channel, which is beneficial to prolong the lifetime of electrons and hinder the recombination of photogenerated carriers; (iii) the enhanced visible light absorption and enlarged specific surface area of BPQDs/Ti3C2@TiO2 further accelerate the photocatalytic reaction. This work emphasizes the essential role of quantum dots in the construction of double heterojunction and the potential application of Ti3C2 MXene for improving photocatalytic activity.
A Regionalized Genome-Based Mexican Diet Improves Anthropometric and Metabolic Parameters in Subjects at Risk for Obesity-Related Chronic Diseases
Authors: Ojeda-Granados Claudia , Panduro Arturo , Rivera-Iñiguez Ingrid , Sepúlveda-Villegas Maricruz , Roman Sonia
Published: March 2020

Obesity-related chronic diseases (CD) are highly prevalent in Mexicans who show moderate to high frequencies of diet-related adaptive gene (DRAG) polymorphisms and recent shifts in traditional dietary habits and lifestyles. This study first evaluated the effects of a regionalized genome-based Mexican (GENOMEX) diet on anthropometric and biochemical parameters and, subsequently their relationship with the genetic profile of DRAG polymorphisms in subjects with metabolic risk factors for obesity-related CD. Thirty-seven eligible subjects underwent a 24-week dietary intervention with a GENOMEX diet. The DRAG polymorphisms were determined by an allelic discrimination real-time assay to evaluate their association with the clinical response to diet. The GENOMEX diet significantly improved anthropometric parameters such as total weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and body fat percentage, with an average weight loss of 6.6% (5.3 ± 5.3 kg). The frequency of subjects with insulin resistance, hypertriglyceridemia and elevated VLDL-c (48.5% vs. 24.2%, p = 0.041; 45.5% vs. 12.1%, p = 0.003; and 39.4% vs. 15.2%, p = 0.027, baseline vs. 24-weeks, respectively) was reduced. A more significant favorable effect in HOMA-IR and insulin was observed in MTHFR 677T adaptive allele carriers, but no other DRAG polymorphism was associated with clinical changes. The GENOMEX diet improved the metabolic risk factors for obesity-related CD. The recommendation and habitual consumption of a traditional Mexican diet based on knowledge of the population’s genetic and cultural history may be effective in preventing current obesity-related CD.
Interaction between Vegetarian Versus Omnivorous Diet and Unhealthy Eating Patterns (Orthorexia Nervosa, Cognitive Restraint) and Body Mass Index in Adults
Authors: Brytek-Matera Anna
Published: March 2020

The objective of the present study was two-fold: Firstly, to investigate unhealthy eating patterns and body mass index among individuals following a vegetarian diet and those following an omnivorous diet. Secondly, to examine interaction between vegetarian versus omnivorous diet and unhealthy eating patterns (orthorexia nervosa, cognitive restraint) and body mass index using a structural equation modeling approach (SEM). The study included 370 participants: 188 participants following a vegetarian diet and 182 following an omnivorous diet. Unhealthy eating patterns and body mass index were measured. Our results showed that individuals following a vegetarian diet were more likely to engage in orthorexic eating behavior compared to individuals following an omnivorous diet. In addition, they had a significantly lower levels of cognitive restraint and lower body mass index than individuals following an omnivorous diet. Use of SEM method showed that: (1) following a vegetarian diet and orthorexia nervosa were directly associated, (2) following an omnivorous diet and cognitive restraint were directly related and (3) following an omnivorous diet had a greater tendency to cognitive restraint and an elevated body mass index. More research is necessary to further understand the complexity of the relationship between type of diet and unhealthy eating patterns in adults.
n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Their Derivates Reduce Neuroinflammation during Aging
Authors: Joffre Corinne , Dinel Anne-Laure , Chataigner Mathilde , Pallet Véronique , Layé Sophie
Published: March 2020

Aging is associated to cognitive decline, which can lead to loss of life quality, personal suffering, and ultimately neurodegenerative diseases. Neuroinflammation is one of the mechanisms explaining the loss of cognitive functions. Indeed, aging is associated to the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways, which can be targeted by specific nutrients with anti-inflammatory effects. Dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are particularly attractive as they are present in the brain, possess immunomodulatory properties, and are precursors of lipid derivates named specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPM). SPMs are crucially involved in the resolution of inflammation that is modified during aging, resulting in chronic inflammation. In this review, we first examine the effect of aging on neuroinflammation and then evaluate the potential beneficial effect of n-3 PUFA as precursors of bioactive derivates, particularly during aging, on the resolution of inflammation. Lastly, we highlight evidence supporting a role of n-3 PUFA during aging.
Nutritional, Microbial, and Allergenic Changes during the Fermentation of Cashew ‘Cheese’ Product Using a Quinoa-Based Rejuvelac Starter Culture
Authors: Chen Jennifer M. , Al Kait F. , Craven Laura J. , Seney Shannon , Coons Margaret , McCormick Heather , Reid Gregor , O’Connor Colleen , Burton Jeremy P.
Published: March 2020

Fermentation has been applied to a multitude of food types for preservation and product enhancing characteristics. Interest in the microbiome and healthy foods makes it important to understand the microbial processes involved in fermentation. This is particularly the case for products such as fermented cashew (Anacardium occidentale). We hereby describe the characterisation of cashew samples throughout an entire fermentation production process, starting at the quinoa starter inoculum (rejuvelac). The viable bacterial count was 108 -109 colony forming units/g. The nutritional composition changed marginally with regards to fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The rejuvelac starter culture was predominated by Pediococcus and Weissella genera. The ‘brie’ and ‘blue’ cashew products became dominated by Lactococcus, Pediococcus, and Weissella genera as the fermentation progressed. Cashew allergenicity was found to significantly decrease with fermentation of all the end-product types. For consumers concerned about allergic reactions to cashew nuts, these results suggested that a safer option is for products to be made by fermentation.
Exercise Training-Induced PPARβ Increases PGC-1α Protein Stability and Improves Insulin-Induced Glucose Uptake in Rodent Muscles
Authors: Park Ju-Sik , Holloszy John O. , Kim Kijin , Koh Jin-Ho
Published: March 2020

This study aimed to investigate the long-term effects of training intervention and resting on protein expression and stability of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor β/δ (PPARβ), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-α (PGC1α), glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4), and mitochondrial proteins, and determine whether glucose homeostasis can be regulated through stable expression of these proteins after training. Rats swam daily for 3, 6, 9, 14, or 28 days, and then allowed to rest for 5 days post-training. Protein and mRNA levels were measured in the skeletal muscles of these rats. PPARβ was overexpressed and knocked down in myotubes in the skeletal muscle to investigate the effects of swimming training on various signaling cascades of PGC-1α transcription, insulin signaling, and glucose uptake. Exercise training (Ext) upregulated PPARβ, PGC-1α, GLUT4, and mitochondrial enzymes, including NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase (NUO), cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX1), citrate synthase (CS), and cytochrome c (Cyto C) in a time-dependent manner and promoted the protein stability of PPARβ, PGC-1α, GLUT4, NUO, CS, and Cyto C, such that they were significantly upregulated 5 days after training cessation. PPARβ overexpression increased the PGC-1α protein levels post-translation and improved insulin-induced signaling responsiveness and glucose uptake. The present results indicate that Ext promotes the protein stability of key mitochondria enzymes GLUT4, PGC-1α, and PPARβ even after Ext cessation.
Safety of Short-Term Supplementation with Methylliberine (Dynamine®) Alone and in Combination with TeaCrine® in Young Adults
Authors: VanDusseldorp Trisha A. , Stratton Matthew T. , Bailly Alyssa R. , Holmes Alyssa J. , Alesi Michaela G. , Feito Yuri , Mangine Gerald T. , Hester Garrett M. , Esmat Tiffany A. , Barcala Megan , Tuggle Karleena R. , Snyder Michael , Modjeski Andrew S.
Published: March 2020

Methylliberine (Dynamine®; DYM) and theacrine (Teacrine®; TCR) are purine alkaloids purported to have similar neuro-energetic effects as caffeine. There are no published human safety data on DYM, and research on TCR is limited. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of four weeks of DYM supplementation with and without TCR on cardiovascular function and blood biomarkers. One-hundred twenty-five men and women (mean age 23.0 yrs, height 169.7 cm, body mass 72.1 kg; n = 25/group) were randomly assigned to one of five groups: low-dose DYM (100 mg), high-dose DYM (150 mg), low-dose DYM with TCR (100 mg + 50 mg), high-dose DYM with TCR (150 mg + 25 mg), and placebo. Regardless of group and sex, significant main effects for time were noted for heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and QTc (p < 0.001), high-density lipoproteins (p = 0.002), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (p = 0.018), basophils (p = 0.006), absolute eosinophils (p = 0.010), creatinine (p = 0.004), estimated glomerular filtration rate (p = 0.037), chloride (p = 0.030), carbon dioxide (p = 0.023), bilirubin (p = 0.027), and alanine aminotransferase (p = 0.043), among others. While small changes were found in some cardiovascular and blood biomarkers, no clinically significant changes occurred. This suggests that DYM alone or in combination with TCR consumed at the dosages used in this study does not appear to negatively affect markers of health over four weeks of continuous use.
Modulation of Adhesion Process, E-Selectin and VEGF Production by Anthocyanins and Their Metabolites in an In Vitro Model of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Marino Mirko , Bo’ Cristian Del , Tucci Massimiliano , Klimis-Zacas Dorothy , Riso Patrizia , Porrini Marisa
Published: March 2020

The present study aims to evaluate the ability of peonidin and petunidin-3-glucoside (Peo-3-glc and Pet-3-glc) and their metabolites (vanillic acid; VA and methyl-gallic acid; MetGA), to prevent monocyte (THP-1) adhesion to endothelial cells (HUVECs), and to reduce the production of vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1, E-selectin and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in a stimulated pro-inflammatory environment, a pivotal step of atherogenesis. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α; 100 ng mL−1) was used to stimulate the adhesion of labelled monocytes (THP-1) to endothelial cells (HUVECs). Successively, different concentrations of Peo-3-glc and Pet-3-glc (0.02 µM, 0.2 µM, 2 µM and 20 µM), VA and MetGA (0.05 µM, 0.5 µM, 5 µM and 50 µM) were tested. After 24 h, VCAM-1, E-selectin and VEGF were quantified by ELISA, while the adhesion process was measured spectrophotometrically. Peo-3-glc and Pet-3-glc (from 0.02 µM to 20 µM) significantly (p < 0.0001) decreased THP-1 adhesion to HUVECs at all concentrations (−37%, −24%, −30% and −47% for Peo-3-glc; −37%, −33%, −33% and −45% for Pet-3-glc). VA, but not MetGA, reduced the adhesion process at 50 µM (−21%; p < 0.001). At the same concentrations, a significant (p < 0.0001) reduction of E-selectin, but not VCAM-1, was documented. In addition, anthocyanins and their metabolites significantly decreased (p < 0.001) VEGF production. The present findings suggest that while Peo-3-glc and Pet-3-glc (but not their metabolites) reduced monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells through suppression of E-selectin production, VEGF production was reduced by both anthocyanins and their metabolites, suggesting a role in the regulation of angiogenesis.
Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE): A Marker for Personalized Feedback on Dieting
Authors: Tejpal Shilpa , Sanghera Narinder , Manoharan Vijayalaxmi , Planas-Iglesias Joan , Bastie Claire C , Klein-Seetharaman Judith
Published: March 2020

Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) expression and activity is associated with obesity. ACE is a circulating factor that predicts sustained weight loss over a time frame of months. Here, we evaluate whether ACE might also be an early marker (over a 24-hour period) for weight loss. 32 participants (78% females; BMI 28.47 ± 4.87kg/m2) followed a 1200KCal diet with an optional daily (<250KCal) snack and were asked to use an in-house generated health platform to provide recordings of food intake, physical activity and urine collection time and volume. Following a day of dieting, ACE levels in urine negatively correlated with weight loss (p = 0.015). This reduction in ACE levels was significantly more robust in individuals with a BMI > 25 (p = 0.0025). This study demonstrated that ACE levels correlate with BMI and weight loss as early as after 1 day of dieting, and thus ACE could be a potential early “biofeedback” marker for weight loss and diet efficiency.
Inflammation (IL-1β) Modifies the Effect of Vitamin D and Omega-3 Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Core Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder—An Exploratory Pilot Study
Authors: Mazahery Hajar , Conlon Cathryn A. , Beck Kathryn L. , Mugridge Owen , Kruger Marlena C. , Stonehouse Welma , Camargo Carlos A. , Meyer Barbara J. , Tsang Bobby , von Hurst Pamela R.
Published: March 2020

Background: The role of vitamin D and omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 LCPUFA) in improving core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children has been investigated by a few randomised controlled trials and the results are mixed and inconclusive. The response to treatment with these nutrients is heterogenous and may be influenced by inflammatory state. As an exploratory analysis, we investigated whether inflammatory state would modulate the effect of these nutrients on core symptoms of ASD. Methods: Seventy-three New Zealand children with ASD (2.5–8.0 years) completed a 12-month randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of vitamin D (VID, 2000 IU/day), omega-3 LCPUFA; (OM, 722 mg/day docosahexaenoic acid), or both (VIDOM). Non-fasting baseline plasma interleukin-1β (IL-1β) was available for 67 children (VID = 15, OM = 21, VIDOM = 15, placebo = 16). Children were categorised as having undetectable/normal IL-1β (<3.2 pg/ml, n = 15) or elevated IL-1β (≥3.2 pg/mL, n = 52). The Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) questionnaire was used to assess core symptoms of ASD (baseline, 12-month). Mixed model repeated measure analyses (including all children or only children with elevated IL-1β) were used. Results: We found evidence for an interaction between baseline IL-1β and treatment response for SRS-total, SRS-social communicative functioning, SRS-awareness and SRS-communication (all Pinteraction < 0.10). When all children were included in the analysis, two outcome comparisons (treatments vs. placebo) showed greater improvements: VID, no effect (all P > 0.10); OM and VIDOM (P = 0.01) for SRS-awareness. When only children with elevated IL-1β were included, five outcomes showed greater improvements: OM (P = 0.01) for SRS-total; OM (P = 0.03) for SRS-social communicative functioning; VID (P = 0.01), OM (P = 0.003) and VIDOM (P = 0.01) for SRS-awareness. Conclusion: Inflammatory state may have modulated responses to vitamin D and omega-3 LCPUFA intervention in children with ASD, suggesting children with elevated inflammation may benefit more from daily vitamin D and omega-3 LCPUFA supplementation.
A Review of Zinc-L-Carnosine and Its Positive Effects on Oral Mucositis, Taste Disorders, and Gastrointestinal Disorders
Authors: Hewlings Susan , Kalman Douglas
Published: March 2020

Zinc-L-carnosine (ZnC), also called polaprezinc known as PepZin GI™, is a chelated compound that contains L-carnosine and zinc. It is a relatively new molecule and has been associated with multiple health benefits. There are several studies that support ZnC’s benefits in restoring the gastric lining, healing other parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, improving taste disorders, improving GI disorders, and enhancing skin and liver. Oral mucositis is a common complication of cytotoxic radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. It occurs in almost every person with head and neck cancer who receive radiotherapy. It is often overlooked because it is not considered life threatening. However, mucositis often leads to a decreased quality of life and cessation of treatment, ultimately decreasing positive outcomes. Therefore, solutions to address it should be considered. The primary mechanisms of action are thought to be localized and related to ZnC’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant functions. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to discuss the research related to ZnC and to explore its benefits, especially in the management of conditions related to damaged epithelial cells, such as oral mucositis. Evidence supports the safety and efficacy of ZnC for the maintenance, prevention, and treatment of the mucosal lining and other epithelial tissues. The research supports its use for gastric ulcers (approved in Japan) and conditions of the upper GI and suggests other applications, particularly for oral mucositis.
Body Dissatisfaction, Restrictive, and Bulimic Behaviours among Young Women: A Polish–Japanese Comparison
Authors: Izydorczyk Bernadetta , Truong Thi Khanh Ha , Lizińczyk Sebastian , Sitnik-Warchulska Katarzyna , Lipowska Małgorzata , Gulbicka Adrianna
Published: March 2020

The growing number of women, who are characterized by restrictive and bulimic behaviours towards their own body is observed especially in countries influenced by Westernalization. However, there is a lack of cross-cultural studies in this area. The main aim of the present study was to examine the psychological and socio-cultural risk factors for eating disorders in Polish and Japanese women. A cross-sectional research study was conducted among 18- to 29-year old Polish (n = 89) and Japanese (n = 97) women. The variables were measured using the Sociocultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Scale SATAQ-3, and the Eating Disorders Inventory EDI-3. The descriptive and comparative statistics, Spearman’s rho, and the stepwise regression analysis were used. The global internalization of socio-cultural standards of body image proved to be a significant predictor of Body Dissatisfaction among Polish and Japanese women. The main analysis showed a significant relation between the Drive for Thinness and Interoceptive Deficits in the group of Japanese women, as well as a correlation between Drive for Thinness and Asceticism in the group of Polish women. The obtained results could improve the prevention aimed the dysfunctional eating behaviours. However, the cultural nuances need to be considered in understanding the risk factors for eating disorders.