bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Operating Head on Dynamic Behavior of a Pump–Turbine Runner in Turbine Mode
Authors: Li Xiangyang , Cao Jingwei , Zhuang Jianling , Wu Tongmao , Zheng Hongyong , Wang Yunfeng , Zheng Wenqiang , Lin Guoqing , Wang Zhengwei
Published: May 2022

Pumped storage units improve the stability of the power grid, and the key component is the pump–turbine. A pump–turbine usually needs to start and shutdown frequently, and the operating head varies greatly due to changes in the water level of the reservoir, which makes the dynamic behavior of a pump–turbine runner extremely complex. This paper investigates the effects of operating head on the dynamic response characteristics of a pump–turbine runner in turbine mode. The flow characteristics of the pump–turbine at maximum head, rated head and minimum head are analyzed, and the dynamic response characteristic of the pump–turbine runner are numerically studied. The results show that operating head can affect the pressure pulsation and dynamic stress characteristics of the pump–turbine runner, but it has little effect on the frequency spectra. The conclusions of this paper intend to improve understanding of the effects of the operating head on the dynamic behavior of the pump–turbine runner, therefore providing a theoretical reference for safe and stable operation of the pump–turbine unit.
Application of Field Olfactometry to Monitor the Odour Impact of a Municipal Sewage System
Authors: Kulig Andrzej , Szyłak-Szydłowski Mirosław , Wiśniewska Marta
Published: May 2022

Odorant emissions are associated with, among other things, wastewater transport in sewer networks; they contribute to air pollution and result in complaints from residents living close to emission sources. The critical location in terms of the formation of unpleasant odour compounds is the pressure line that connects the pumping station and the expansion well; this is where they are released into the atmosphere. This paper presents comprehensive results of olfactometric and chromatographic tests in the Polish city of Białystok using portable devices that allow for multiple determinations and instant results. The study attempts to investigate the relationship between odour and odorant concentrations and check the suitability of field olfactometry as a tool for the ongoing monitoring of the emission of noxious odours and for verifying complaints submitted by residents. Statistical analysis shows a very high correlation coefficient between cod and the concentrations of individual odorants, ranging from 0.82 to 0.91. This olfactometric research, mainly conducted in situ, can be an appropriate method for the ad hoc monitoring of processes in sewage networks. This method allows the detection of unwanted emissions of odours at individual points in the network in concentrations that are not detected by standard sensors but that nevertheless cause odour nuisances, complaints, and social conflict. The research results provide evidence in favour of the energetic usage of wastewater, which is in line with circular economy conception, since odour nuisance is one of its indicators.
Development of Design Method for River Water Source Heat Pump System Using an Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Kwon Youngsik , Bae Sangmu , Nam Yujin
Published: May 2022

River water source heat pump (RWSHP) systems are being proposed to reduce the energy consumption and carbon emissions of buildings. The RWSHP system is actively applied to large-scale buildings due to its stable performance. The application of RWSHP in large-scale facilities requires an accurate capacity design with considerations of building load, heat source, and environment conditions. However, most RWSHP systems are over-designed based on peak load of buildings. These design methods, based on peak loads, are economically and environmentally disadvantageous. Therefore, this paper aims to development an optimal design method, both economically and environmentally, for the RWSHP system. To develop this optimal design method, a simulation model was created with an optimization algorithm. The economics of the RWSHP system were calculated bases on present worth of annuity factor. Moreover, CO2 emissions were estimated using the life cycle climate performance proposed by the International Institute of Refrigeration. The total cost of the proposed RWSHP system that apply the optimum design method decreased by 24% compared to conventional RWSHP systems. Moreover, CO2 emissions of the proposed RWSHP system reduced by 4% compared to conventional RWSHP systems.
Response of Runoff Yield to Land Use Changes in the Small Watershed of Core Area for 2022 Winter Olympic Games in Zhangjiakou City Based on SWAT Model
Authors: Zhang Shijia , Cao Chen , Wang Zhongyu , Lan Jiazhu , Tian Wang , Li Xiaodan , Huang Tousheng
Published: May 2022

Based on an improved high-precision land use map, the SWAT model of the small watershed of the core area for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games in Zhangjiakou City was established. The model was set up, calibrated, and validated with data from 2017 to 2019. In comparison with the measured flow discharge, all the coefficient of determination values of the simulated results at the upstream, midstream, and downstream (outlet) points were larger than 0.80 in both calibration and validation periods, and the relevant Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient values were above 0.62. With the model, the response of runoff yield in the small watershed to the land use change before (2015) and after (2019) Olympic construction was simulated and analyzed. The runoff yield change was only −5.1% from 2015 to 2019, which was not statistically significant (p = 0.87 > 0.05). Through simulation of two extreme scenarios, two runoff yield change coefficients were introduced to explore the effects of land use change on runoff yield. The results revealed that the neutralization effects of the land use change from grassland to forest (with strong water conservation capacity) and residential and bare land (with poor water conservation capacity) were the main reasons for the insignificant change of runoff yield. The results of this research may provide some inspiration to the application of SWAT model in small watershed and some guidance to the vegetation restoration practices for water conservation. These results can promote understanding on the response of runoff yield to the land use changes towards two extreme directions of forest land and residential and barren land, and provide some guidance for the vegetation restoration practices in the small watersheds hosting major events.
Toward a Unified TreeTalker Data Curation Process
Authors: Tomelleri Enrico , Belelli Marchesini Luca , Yaroslavtsev Alexey , Asgharinia Shahla , Valentini Riccardo
Published: May 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) development is revolutionizing environmental monitoring and research in macroecology. This technology allows for the deployment of sizeable diffuse sensing networks capable of continuous monitoring. Because of this property, the data collected from IoT networks can provide a testbed for scientific hypotheses across large spatial and temporal scales. Nevertheless, data curation is a necessary step to make large and heterogeneous datasets exploitable for synthesis analyses. This process includes data retrieval, quality assurance, standardized formatting, storage, and documentation. TreeTalkers are an excellent example of IoT applied to ecology. These are smart devices for synchronously measuring trees’ physiological and environmental parameters. A set of devices can be organized in a mesh and permit data collection from a single tree to plot or transect scale. The deployment of such devices over large-scale networks needs a standardized approach for data curation. For this reason, we developed a unified processing workflow according to the user manual. In this paper, we first introduce the concept of a unified TreeTalker data curation process. The idea was formalized into an R-package, and it is freely available as open software. Secondly, we present the different functions available in “ttalkR”, and, lastly, we illustrate the application with a demonstration dataset. With such a unified processing approach, we propose a necessary data curation step to establish a new environmental cyberinfrastructure and allow for synthesis activities across environmental monitoring networks. Our data curation concept is the first step for supporting the TreeTalker data life cycle by improving accessibility and thus creating unprecedented opportunities for TreeTalker-based macroecological analyses.
Data Anonymization: An Experimental Evaluation Using Open-Source Tools
Authors: Tomás Joana , Rasteiro Deolinda , Bernardino Jorge
Published: May 2022

In recent years, the use of personal data in marketing, scientific and medical investigation, and forecasting future trends has really increased. This information is used by the government, companies, and individuals, and should not contain any sensitive information that allows the identification of an individual. Therefore, data anonymization is essential nowadays. Data anonymization changes the original data to make it difficult to identify an individual. ARX Data Anonymization and Amnesia are two popular open-source tools that simplify this process. In this paper, we evaluate these tools in two ways: with the OSSpal methodology, and using a public dataset with the most recent tweets about the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine. The assessment with the OSSpal methodology determines that ARX Data Anonymization has better results than Amnesia. In the experimental evaluation using the public dataset, it is possible to verify that Amnesia has some errors and limitations, but the anonymization process is simpler. Using ARX Data Anonymization, it is possible to upload big datasets and the tool does not show any error in the anonymization process. We concluded that ARX Data Anonymization is the one recommended to use in data anonymization.
Transverse Loading on Single High-Performance Fibers by Round-Head Indenters and the Fibers’ Failure Visualization
Authors: Gao Jinling , Kedir Nesredin , Lim Boon Him , Nie Yizhou , Zhai Xuedong , Chen Weinong
Published: May 2022

High-performance fibers are well-known for their high stiffness and strength under axial tension. However, in their many applications as critical components of textiles and composites, transverse loads widely exist in their normal service life. In this study, we modified a micro material testing system to transverse load single fibers using round-head indenters. By integrating the loading platform with the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) operating at a low-vacuum mode, we visualized the failure processes of fibers without conductive coatings. Post-fracture analysis was conducted to provide complementary information about the fibers’ failure. The energy dissipation was compared with the axial tensile experiments. Three inorganic and two organic fibers were investigated, namely carbon nanotube, ceramic, glass, aramid, and ultrahigh molecule weight polyethylene fibers. Different failure characteristics were reported. It is revealed that the organic fibers had higher energy dissipation than the inorganic fibers under the transverse loading by the round-head indenters. The fiber’s energy dissipation under transverse loading was no more than 17.9% of that subjected to axial tension. Such a reduced energy dissipation is believed to be due to the stress concentration under the indenter. It is suggested that the fiber’s material constituent, structural characteristics, and stress concentration under the indenter should be considered in the fiber model for textiles and composites.
A Simulation Study on the Smoke Control Effect with Different Smoke Exhaust Patterns and Longitudinal Air Supply for Ultra-Wide Tunnels
Authors: Li Ying , Huang Fang , Ma Chuyuan , Tang Kaixuan
Published: May 2022

This study was motivated by the lack of understanding of the smoke control effect on an ultra-wide tunnel fire, with different smoke exhaust patterns (sidewall and top exhaust patterns) and longitudinal air supply volume (0, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 90%). A full-scale ultra-wide tunnel model was constructed based on the FDS and the fire parameters were analyzed, such as the longitudinal spread distance of smoke, the smoke layer height and the temperature at safe height. In addition, the smoke exhaust efficiency was calculated based on the mass flux of CO2, and the smoke control effect with different smoke exhaust patterns and air supply volumes was compared. Results show that the smoke exhaust patterns and air supply ratios have a great influence on smoke spread distance and exhaust efficiency. The smoke spread distance is shortened by increasing the longitudinal air supply volume, and when the ratio of air supply volume to smoke exhaust volume is less than 50%, the top exhaust pattern can control the spread of smoke better with a smaller smoke spread distance. In addition, the height of the smoke layer is controlled above the safe height of 2 m under the top smoke exhaust, and the temperature at both ends of the tunnel (25 °C) is lower than that under the sidewall exhaust pattern (35 °C). The smoke exhaust efficiency was calculated based on the mass flow rate of CO2, and the exhaust efficiency of the top exhaust pattern (~70%) is significantly higher than that of the sidewall exhaust pattern (~55%). However, as the air supply volume increases, there is a reduced increase in the exhaust efficiency. Therefore, taking the economic cost into account, the air supply ratios of 30% and 50% are the best for top and sidewall exhaust patterns, respectively. The results of this work provide important information about smoke distribution characteristics in an ultra-wide tunnel fire and may guide its design of smoke exhaust.
Long-Term Change of a Fish-Based Index of Biotic Integrity for a Semi-Enclosed Bay in the Beibu Gulf
Authors: Su Li , Xu Youwei , Qiu Yongsong , Sun Mingshuai , Zhang Kui , Chen Zuozhi
Published: May 2022

The Beibu Gulf in the northwestern South China Sea is one of the world’s most productive fishing grounds, yet its biotic resources appear to be in rapid decline because of overexploitation. Assessments of the health status of the fisheries’ resources in the gulf provide a foundation for their conservation and management. As fish accounted for 84% to 97% of the total catch in the Beibu Gulf in the period 1962–2017, a Fish-based Index of Biotic Integrity (F-IBI) was developed for the Beibu Gulf, and data from otter trawl surveys during the period 1962–2017 were used to measure variations in the fish community. The assessment revealed a generally downward trend in total fish catch density (kg/km2), catch density of 12 traditional commercial demersal fish species, and percentage of nektonic-feeding species, but an upward trend for the percentage of fishes with a planktivorous or detritus diet, percentage of pelagic species, and percentage of the dominant species. The dominant species varied greatly over the 50 year period and showed a tendency towards small-sized species. The synthetic F-IBI variable showed a downward trend and has indicated a ‘fair’ state since 1998. The decline in the F-IBI over the last three decades suggests that anthropogenic disturbances, especially overfishing, have had a serious impact on the fish community of the Beibu Gulf. The F-IBI is currently at risk of becoming ‘poor.’ Consequently, we suggest that rigid and enforceable fishery management measures should be taken by both China and Vietnam to prevent further deterioration of the fisheries’ resources in the gulf.
The Influence of Sous Vide Parameters on Nutritional Characteristics and Safety of Pikeperch Fillets
Authors: Modzelewska-Kapituła Monika , Pietrzak-Fiećko Renata , Zakrzewski Arkadiusz , Więk Adam
Published: May 2022

The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of temperature and time combination on the quality of pikeperch fillets and to propose settings which allow high nutritional quality fish fillets to be obtained. The material for the study consisted of 24 farmed pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) fillets, which were evaluated raw and after sous vide (SV) cooking proceeded at 65 °C for 45 min (SV65), 75 °C for 20 min (SV75), and 90 °C for 10 min (SV90). The chemical composition was affected by SV procedure; SV90 was similar to raw samples in terms of moisture, protein, and fat content, whereas SV65 differed the most. Carnosine contents decreased in all SV samples compared with raw ones, and anserine only decreased in SV90. There were no differences in terms of fatty acid composition (% of total) between SV and raw samples. In SV75 and SV90 total viable counts, Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococcus sp., and Staphylococcus sp. were reduced below a detection level but not in SV65. These samples also showed a better sensory quality than SV65. Therefore, SV75 and SV90 might be recommended for pikeperch fillets preparation, taking into account safety and nutritional aspects.
Octacosanol Modifies Obesity, Expression Profile and Inflammation Response of Hepatic Tissues in High-Fat Diet Mice
Authors: Bai Jie , Yang Tao , Zhou Yaping , Xu Wei , Han Shuai , Guo Tianyi , Zhu Lingfeng , Qin Dandan , Luo Yi , Hu Zuomin , Wu Xiaoqi , Luo Feijun , Liu Bo , Lin Qinlu
Published: May 2022

The incidence of obesity has increased significantly on account of the alterations of living habits, especially changes in eating habits. In this study, we investigated the effect of octacosanol on lipid lowering and its molecular mechanism. High-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity mouse model was used in the study. Thirty C57BL/6J mice were divided into control, HFD, and HFD+Oct groups randomly, and every group included ten mice. The mice of HFD+Oct group were intragastrically administrated 100 mg/kg/day of octacosanol. After 10 weeks for treatment, our results indicated that octacosanol supplementation decreased the body, liver, and adipose tissues weight of HFD mice; levels of TC, TG, and LDL-c were reduced in the plasma of HFD mice; and level of HDL-c were increased. H&E staining indicated that octacosanol supplementation reduces the size of fat droplets of hepatic tissues and adipose cells comparing with the HFD group. Gene chip analysis found that octacosanol regulated 72 genes involved in lipid metabolism in the tissues of liver comparing to the HFD group. IPA pathway network analysis indicated that PPAR and AMPK may play a pivotal role in the lipid-lowering function of octacosanol. Real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot showed that the octacosanol supplementation caused change of expression levels of AMPK, PPARs, FASN, ACC, SREBP-1c, and SIRT1, which were closely related to lipid metabolism. Taken together, our results suggest that octacosanol supplementation exerts a lipid-decreasing effect in the HFD-fed mice through modulating the lipid metabolism-related signal pathway.
Processing Effects on Protein Structure and Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Orlien Vibeke , Rinnan Åsmund
Published: May 2022

Raw materials, whether it is from the animal or plant kingdom, undergo some kind of (domestic or industrial) processing prior to consumption [...]
Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods: Is It Possible and Sustainable for Bridging Health and Food?
Authors: Santini Antonello
Published: May 2022

This editorial is part of the Special Issue entitled “Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods: Bridging Health and Food Under a New Perspective” [...]
Detection of Pesticide Residue Level in Grape Using Hyperspectral Imaging with Machine Learning
Authors: Ye Weixin , Yan Tianying , Zhang Chu , Duan Long , Chen Wei , Song Hao , Zhang Yifan , Xu Wei , Gao Pan
Published: May 2022

Rapid and accurate detection of pesticide residue levels can help to prevent the harm of pesticide residue. This study used visible/near-infrared (Vis-NIR) (376–1044 nm) and near-infrared (NIR) (915–1699 nm) hyperspectral imaging systems (HISs) to detect the level of pesticide residues. Three different varieties of grapes were sprayed with four levels of pesticides. Logistic regression (LR), support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), convolutional neural network (CNN), and residual neural network (ResNet) models were used to build classification models for pesticide residue levels. The saliency maps of CNN and ResNet were conducted to visualize the contribution of wavelengths. Overall, the results of NIR spectra performed better than those of Vis-NIR spectra. For Vis-NIR spectra, the best model was ResNet, with the accuracy of over 93%. For NIR spectra, LR was the best, with the accuracy of over 97%, but SVM, CNN, and ResNet also showed closed and fine results. The saliency map of CNN and ResNet presented similar and closed ranges of crucial wavelengths. Overall results indicated deep learning performed better than conventional machine learning. The study showed that the use of hyperspectral imaging technology combined with machine learning can effectively detect the level of pesticide residues in grapes.
Structure and Anti-Inflammation Potential of Lipoteichoic Acids Isolated from Lactobacillus Strains
Authors: Lu Qianqian , Guo Yingqi , Yang Guo , Cui Lei , Wu Zhen , Zeng Xiaoqun , Pan Daodong , Cai Zhendong
Published: May 2022

Lactobacillus are normal inhabitants of the gastrointestinal tract and confer a variety of health effects. Lipoteichoic acid (LTA), an amphiphilic substance located in the cell membrane, is a key molecule in probiotic–host crosstalk. Through the characterization of structural characteristics of LTA molecules derived from Lactobacillus plantarum A3, Lactobacillus reuteri DMSZ 8533, and Lactobacillus acidophilus CICC 6074, there exists some heterogeneity in LTA molecules, which perhaps contributes to the distinguishable adhesion properties of Lactobacillus strains based on fluorescence microscopy observations. In LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells, LTAs derived from three Lactobacillus strains obviously alleviated inflammatory responses as evidenced by the altered inflammatory cytokine levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10. Western blotting demonstrated that L. reuteri LTA blocked LPS-triggered expression of the MAPK and NF-κB pathways. The findings further validated that LTA is an important effector molecule and deserves further consideration as an alternative therapeutic for ulcerative colitis treatment.
Comparison of Different Drying Methods on the Volatile Components of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) by HS-GC-MS Coupled with Fast GC E-Nose
Authors: Yu Dai-Xin , Guo Sheng , Wang Jie-Mei , Yan Hui , Zhang Zhen-Yu , Yang Jian , Duan Jin-Ao
Published: May 2022

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is one of the most popular spices in the world, with its unique odor. Due to its health benefits, ginger is also widely used as a dietary supplement and herbal medicine. In this study, the main flavor components of gingers processed by different drying methods including hot air drying, vacuum drying, sun-drying, and vacuum-freeze drying, were identified on the basis of headspace-gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS) and fast gas chromatography electronic-nose (fast GC e-nose) techniques. The results showed that the ginger dried by hot air drying exhibited high contents of volatile compounds and retained the richest odor in comparison with those dried by other methods, which indicated that hot air drying is more suitable for the production of dried ginger. Sensory description by fast GC e-nose exhibited that ginger flavor was mainly concentrated in the spicy, sweet, minty, fruity, and herbaceous odor. The relative content of the zingiberene was significantly higher in the hot air drying sample than those by other methods, suggesting that dried ginger by hot air drying can retain more unique spicy and pungent odorants. Furthermore, the results of chemometrics analyses showed that the main variance components among the samples by different drying methods were α-naginatene, (+)-cyclosativene, and sulcatone in HS-GC-MS analysis, and α-terpinen-7-al, dimethyl sulfide, and citronellal in fast GC e-nose analysis. For comparison of fresh and dried gingers, terpinolene, terpinen-4-ol, 2,4-decadienal, (E, Z)-, and linalool were considered the main variance components. This study generated a better understanding of the flavor characteristics of gingers by different drying methods and could provide a guide for drying and processing of ginger.
Detection of the Spatio-Temporal Differentiation Patterns and Influencing Factors of Wheat Production in Huang-Huai-Hai Region
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Li Bingjun
Published: May 2022

The stability of wheat production is closely related to national food security and agricultural sustainable development, and it has been a major policy concern for China. By analyzing the spatiotemporal factors and causes of wheat production, we can grasp the spatiotemporal distribution law of wheat production to rationally allocate agricultural resources. To this end, this study first conducted a quantitative analysis of the yield differentiation patterns in Huang-Huai-Hai (HHH) wheat based on the 2010–2020 wheat agricultural data, comprehensively using the Theil index and exploratory spatial data analysis. Second, to eliminate the spatial heterogeneity and multicollinearity of the modeling variables, a local model of SCA-GWR combining Spearman correlation analysis (SCA) and geographically weighted regression (GWR) was established. Compared with the traditional global regression model, the superiority and applicability of the SCA-GWR model are proved, and it is a simple and effective new method to detect spatial data nonstationarity. Finally, the factors influencing wheat production in the HHH region were detected based on the SCA-GWR local model, and relevant policy recommendations were put forward. The results show that: (1) The yield difference in different farming areas gradually narrowed, and the wheat production had a significant High-High aggregation trend. The center of gravity for wheat production lies in the southwest of the HHH region. (2) Wheat production still has a strong dependence on irrigation and fertilizer. Effective irrigated areas and temperature are the main driving forces for its production. The inhibitory effect of the proportion of nonagricultural employment on wheat production gradually weakened. Radiation and rainfall were only significantly positively correlated with wheat production in the central and southern HHH region. In response to the findings of the study, corresponding policy recommendations are made in terms of optimizing the allocation of resources, increasing investment in agricultural infrastructure, and vigorously researching and developing agricultural science and technology, and the results of the study can provide a basis for decision-making and management by relevant departments.
Gamma-Ray Bursts at TeV Energies: Theoretical Considerations
Authors: Gill Ramandeep , Granot Jonathan
Published: May 2022

Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are the most luminous explosions in the Universe and are powered by ultra-relativistic jets. Their prompt γ-ray emission briefly outshines the rest of the γ-ray sky, making them detectable from cosmological distances. A burst is followed by, and sometimes partially overlaps with, a similarly energetic but very broadband and longer-lasting afterglow emission. While most GRBs are detected below a few MeV, over 100 have been detected at high (≳0.1 GeV) energies, and several have now been observed up to tens of GeV with the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT). A new electromagnetic window in the very-high-energy (VHE) domain (≳0.1 TeV) was recently opened with the detection of an afterglow emission in the (0.1–1)TeV energy band by ground-based imaging atmospheric Cherenkov telescopes. The emission mechanism for the VHE spectral component is not fully understood, and its detection offers important constraints for GRB physics. This review provides a brief overview of the different leptonic and hadronic mechanisms capable of producing a VHE emission in GRBs. The same mechanisms possibly give rise to the high-energy spectral component seen during the prompt emission of many Fermi-LAT GRBs. Possible origins of its delayed onset and long duration well into the afterglow phase, with implications for the emission region and relativistic collisionless shock physics, are discussed. Key results for using GRBs as ideal probes for constraining models of extra-galactic background light and intergalactic magnetic fields, as well as for testing Lorentz invariance violation, are presented.
Fabrication of Ethosomes Containing Tocopherol Acetate to Enhance Transdermal Permeation: In Vitro and Ex Vivo Characterizations
Authors: Akhtar Naheed , Akhtar Naveed , Menaa Farid , Alharbi Walaa , Alaryani Fatima , Alqahtani Ali , Ahmad Faizan
Published: May 2022

Background: Tocopherol acetate (TA) is known as a skin moisturizing and photoprotective agent. One major drawback with tocopherol and its derivatives remains its limited stability. Aim: To develop highly stable TA-containing ethosomal gel (TAEG) as an advanced dosage form. Methods: A cold method technique was used to produce the ethosomes. An in vitro evaluation of viscosity, conductivity, and pH stability was carried out for three months. An in vitro physical characterization of the nanoparticles (NPs) that included particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis was then performed. Organoleptic evaluation, thermostability at 8 °C, 25 °C, 40 °C and 40 °C ± 75% RH, pH, conductivity, viscosity, and spreadability measurements were also performed in vitro for three months. An ex vivo permeation study was performed in phosphate-buffered solution (1× PBS; pH 5.5 or pH 7.4) at 37 ± 0.2 °C by using rat abdominal skin and the Franz diffusion cell method. The data of three independent experiments were expressed as mean ± SD. A two-way ANOVA was applied to compare data on TAEG versus TA control gel (TACG). Results: PS of the ethosomes was in the range of 144–289 nm. A total of nine formulations were developed. Optimized TAEG formulation (TA-5) was selected based on the highest entrapment efficiency (EE) of 99.71%, while the stability, the PS, and the uniformity-based polydispersity index (PDI) were also among the best. TA-5 exhibited smooth spherical ethosomal NPs with PS of 200.6 nm, ZP value of −18.6 V, and PDI of 0.465. Stability data obtained for TA-5 in terms of rheology, conductivity, and pH presented no significant change (p > 0.05) during the entire study duration. Rheological studies indicated that TA-5 followed a non-Newtonian behavior of shear thinning system. The ex vivo drug permeation was 44.55 ± 0.01% in TA-5 and the drug retention in skin was 51.20%, which was significantly higher than TACG as observed after 24 h permeation study (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The newly developed TAEG formulation appears promising to enhance the effectivity of TA and its topical application.
Poly(curcumin β-amino ester)-Based Tablet Formulation for a Sustained Release of Curcumin
Authors: Patil Vinod S. , Burdette Benjamin C. , Hilt J. Zach , Kalika Douglass S. , Dziubla Thomas D.
Published: May 2022

Oral drug delivery remains the most common and well tolerated method for drug administration. However, its applicability is often limited due to low drug solubility and stability. One approach to overcome the solubility and stability limitations is the use of amorphous polymeric prodrug formulations, such as poly(β-amino ester) (PBAE). PBAE hydrogels, which are biodegradable and pH responsive, have shown promising results for the controlled release of drugs by improving the stability and increasing the solubility of these drugs. In this work, we have evaluated the potential use of PBAE prodrugs in an oral tablet formulation, studying their sustained drug release potential and storage stability. Curcumin, a low solubility, low stability antioxidant drug was used as a model compound. Poly(curcumin β-amino ester) (PCBAE), a crosslinked amorphous network, was synthesized by a previously published method using a commercial diacrylate and a primary diamine, in combination with acrylate-functionalized curcumin. PCBAE-based tablets were made and exhibited a sustained release for 16 h, following the hydrolytic degradation of PCBAE particles into native curcumin. In addition to the release studies, preliminary storage stability was assessed using standard and accelerated stability conditions. As PCBAE degradation is hydrolysis driven, tablet stability was found to be sensitive to moisture.
A Temperature-Sensitive Polymeric Rheology Modifier Used in Water-Based Drilling Fluid for Deepwater Drilling
Authors: Wang Zhongyi , Sun Jinsheng , Zhang Kun , Lv Kaihe , Huang Xianbin , Wang Jintang , Wang Ren , Meng Xu
Published: May 2022

Rheology modifiers are essential for the flat rheology of water-based drilling fluids in deepwater. The low temperature thickening of deepwater water-based drilling fluids results in dramatic rheological changes in the 20–30 °C range. To address such problems, NIPAM with a self-polymerized product LCST of 32–35 °C was selected as the main body for synthesis. While introducing the hydrophilic monomer AM to enhance the thickening properties, the hydrophobic monomer BA was selected to reduce the LCST of the product. In this paper, a temperature-sensitive polymeric rheology modifier (PNBAM) was synthesized by emulsion polymerization using N-isopropyl acrylamide, acrylamide, and butyl acrylate as monomers. The PNBAM was characterized using infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen spectroscopy (NMR). The rheological properties, temperature resistance, and salt resistance of PNBAM in the base fluid (BF) were tested. The performance of PNBAM in the drilling fluid system was also evaluated, and a water-based drilling fluid system of flat rheology for deepwater was formulated. The rheological modification mechanism of PNBAM was analyzed by turbidity analysis, particle size analysis, and zeta analysis. Experimental results show that PNBAM has good rheological properties. PNBAM is temperature resistant to 150 °C, salt-resistant to 30 wt%, and calcium resistant to 1.0 wt%. PNBAM also has good flat rheology characteristics in drilling fluid systems: AV4°C:AV25°C = 1.27, PV4°C:PV25°C = 1.19. Mechanistic analysis showed that the LCST (Lower Critical Solution Temperature) of 0.2 wt% PNBAM in an aqueous solution was 31 °C. Through changes in hydrogen bonding forces with water, PNBAM can regulate its hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties before and after LCST, which thus assists BF to achieve a flat rheological effect. In summary, the temperature-sensitive effect of PNBAM has the property of enhancing with increasing temperature. While the tackifying effect of conventional rheology modifiers diminishes with increasing temperature, the temperature-sensitive effect of PNBAM gives it an enhanced thickening effect with increasing temperature, making it a more novel rheology modifier compared to conventional treatment additives. After LCST, compared to conventional rheology modifiers (XC), PNBAM has a more pronounced thermo-thickening effect, improving the main rheological parameters of BF by more than 100% or even up to 200% (XC less than 50%). This contributes to the flat rheology of drilling fluids. PNBAM has good application prospects and serves as a good reference for the development of other rheology modifiers.
Identification of miRNAs in Response to Sweet Potato Weevil (Cylas formicarius) Infection by sRNA Sequencing
Authors: Lei Jian , Mei Yuqin , Jin Xiaojie , Liu Yi , Wang Lianjun , Chai Shasha , Cheng Xianliang , Yang Xinsun
Published: May 2022

The sweet potato weevil (Cylas formicarius) is an important pest in the growing and storage of sweet potatoes. It is a common pest in the sweet potato production areas of southern China, causing serious harm to the development of the sweet potato industry. For the existing cultivars in China and abroad, there is no sweet potato variety with complete resistance to the sweet potato weevil. Thus, understanding the regulation mechanisms of sweet potato weevil resistance is the prerequisite for cultivating sweet potato varieties that are resistant to the sweet potato weevil. However, very little progress has been made in this field. In this study, we inoculated adult sweet potato weevils into sweet potato tubers. The infected sweet potato tubers were collected at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h. Then, a miRNA library was constructed for Eshu 6 and Guang 87 sweet potato tubers infected for different lengths of time. A total of 407 known miRNAs and 298 novel miRNAs were identified. A total of 174 differentially expressed miRNAs were screened out from the known miRNAs, and 247 differentially expressed miRNAs were screened out from the new miRNAs. Moreover, the targets of the differentially expressed miRNAs were predicted and their network was further investigated through GO analysis and KEGG analysis using our previous transcriptome data. More importantly, we screened 15 miRNAs and their target genes for qRT-PCR verification to confirm the reliability of the high-throughput sequencing data, which indicated that these miRNAs were detected and most of the expression results were consistent with the sequencing results. These results provide theoretical and data-based resources for the identification of miRNAs in response to sweet potato weevil infection and an analysis of the molecular regulatory mechanisms involved in insect resistance.
Polygenic Models Partially Predict Muscle Size and Strength but Not Low Muscle Mass in Older Women
Authors: Khanal Praval , Morse Christopher I. , He Lingxiao , Herbert Adam J. , Onambélé-Pearson Gladys L. , Degens Hans , Thomis Martine , Williams Alun G. , Stebbings Georgina K.
Published: May 2022

Background: Heritability explains 45-82% of muscle mass and strength variation, yet polygenic models for muscle phenotypes in older women are scarce. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to (1) assess if total genotype predisposition score (GPSTOTAL) for a set of polymorphisms differed between older women with low and high muscle mass, and (2) utilise a data-driven GPS (GPSDD) to predict the variance in muscle size and strength-related phenotypes. Methods: In three-hundred 60- to 91-year-old Caucasian women (70.7 ± 5.7 years), skeletal muscle mass, biceps brachii thickness, vastus lateralis anatomical cross-sectional area (VLACSA), hand grip strength (HGS), and elbow flexion (MVCEF) and knee extension (MVCKE) maximum voluntary contraction were measured. Participants were classified as having low muscle mass if the skeletal muscle index (SMI) < 6.76 kg/m2 or relative skeletal muscle mass (%SMMr) < 22.1%. Genotyping was completed for 24 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). GPSTOTAL was calculated from 23 SNPs and compared between the low and high muscle mass groups. A GPSDD was performed to identify the association of SNPs with other skeletal muscle phenotypes. Results: There was no significant difference in GPSTOTAL between low and high muscle mass groups, irrespective of classification based on SMI or %SMMr. The GPSDD model, using 23 selected SNPs, revealed that 13 SNPs were associated with at least one skeletal muscle phenotype: HIF1A rs11549465 was associated with four phenotypes and, in descending number of phenotype associations, ACE rs4341 with three; PTK2 rs7460 and CNTFR rs2070802 with two; and MTHFR rs17421511, ACVR1B rs10783485, CNTF rs1800169, MTHFR rs1801131, MTHFR rs1537516, TRHR rs7832552, MSTN rs1805086, COL1A1 rs1800012, and FTO rs9939609 with one phenotype. The GPSDD with age included as a predictor variable explained 1.7% variance of biceps brachii thickness, 12.5% of VLACSA, 19.0% of HGS, 8.2% of MVCEF, and 9.6% of MVCKE. Conclusions: In older women, GPSTOTAL did not differ between low and high muscle mass groups. However, GPSDD was associated with muscle size and strength phenotypes. Further advancement of polygenic models to understand skeletal muscle function during ageing might become useful in targeting interventions towards older adults most likely to lose physical independence.
Improvement in Quality of Life through Self-Management of Mild Symptoms during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ohta Ryuichi , Ryu Yoshinori , Sano Chiaki
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has inhibited people’s help-seeking behaviors (HSBs). In particular, older people in rural communities experienced limited access to medical care, which negatively affected their quality of life (QOL). Within HSB, self-management of mild symptoms may mitigate the difficulties experienced by older people in rural communities. However, few studies have examined the relationship between self-management and QOL. Therefore, we conducted a prospective cohort study to clarify this relationship. Our participants were over 65 years of age and lived in rural communities. QOL was measured with the EuroQol 5-Dimension 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L). Demographic data and QOL were collected from participants via questionnaires in 2021 and 2022. The exposure group showed a significantly greater change in EQ-5D-5L health status index scores than the control group (p = 0.002). In addition, the exposure group scored significantly lower than the control group on the EQ-5D-5L dimension “usual activities” in 2021 and on all dimensions in 2022. Thus, self-management of mild symptoms may improve QOL among older people in rural communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Educational interventions for this population regarding self-management could improve QOL for entire communities.
Processed Plant-Based Foods for CKD Patients: Good Choice, but Be Aware
Authors: D’Alessandro Claudia , Pezzica Jason , Bolli Carolina , Di Nicola Alice , Falai Azzurra , Giannese Domenico , Cupisti Adamasco
Published: May 2022

The beneficial effects of vegetarian diets are known in the general population and in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In recent years, the market has developed a number of processed plant-based products because of several factors (lifestyle changes, ethical concerns, and sustainability). The composition in terms of nutrients, ingredients, and additives of 560 products available on the market and on online shopping sites was analyzed to understand the characteristics of these products. Processed plant-based meat substitutes have a higher content of salt (+467%), lipids (+26%), mostly unsaturated, and fiber with respect to regular animal-based ones. Protein content is lower (−40%) in plant-based products with respect to corresponding animal ones. Of the 49 additives on the label (on average 2 per product), 20 contain phosphorus, sodium, potassium, or nitrogen. Several plant-based processed products may contain elevated amounts of salt and additives, which make them not optimal for CKD patients. Although a plant-based diet remains a very important tool for CKD nutritional management, patients should be aware regarding the extra content of sodium and additives in processed plant-based products compared to animal-based processed food.
The Challenges and Strategies towards Healthy Eating during COVID-19 Home Confinement Period among Working Adults with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 Enrolled in a Weight Loss Program: Qualitative Findings
Authors: Abdul Basir Siti Munirah , Abdul Manaf Zahara , Mohd. Noor Norhayati , Mat Ludin Arimi Fitri , Shahar Suzana , Abdul Manaf Mohd Rizal
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has been affecting our lifestyles, such as work, living, and health. In Malaysia, the Restriction of Movement Order (RMO) was first announced in March 2020 to curb the spread of the virus. Since then, many Malaysians have been confined to their own home. This new lifestyle can cause a change of eating habits where healthy eating may be a challenge. Hence, our qualitative study explored the challenges and strategies for healthy eating during the first wave of the COVID-19 home confinement period among working adults overweight and obese in Malaysia. Eleven participants were individually interviewed through phone calls. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and then coded with NVIVO 12 based on thematic analysis. We found that social pressure, changes in the social setting, more free time to access food, and extra stock of unhealthy foods at home were among the challenges to healthy eating. Some participants countered these perceived challenges by reducing unhealthy food stock, limiting kitchen visits, and utilizing self-monitoring apps to monitor their calorie intake. Social media was not consistently perceived to influence their eating behavior during this period. We conclude that COVID-19 home confinement has created challenges to healthy eating habits among overweight and obese adults with overweight and obesity. Our study provides evidence that vulnerable groups such as overweight and obese individuals require specific nutritional support during pandemic-related confinement to enhance eating self-efficacy.
Analysis of Work Related Factors, Behavior, Well-Being Outcome, and Job Satisfaction of Workers of Emergency Medical Service: A Systematic Review
Authors: Thielmann Beatrice , Schnell Julia , Böckelmann Irina , Schumann Heiko
Published: May 2022

Background: The workloads of emergency medical service personnel (EMS) are varied. In the absence of recovery, health consequences can result. The aim of this review was to analyze the literature on the associations between psychosocial or physical work factors on one hand and the well-being outcomes and job satisfaction on the other hand. Methods: A systematic literature review examining the workloads, behavior, and well-being of EMS including emergency physicians, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement for the reporting systematic reviews, was performed. The PubMed, Ovid Medline, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Psyndex, and Embase electronic databases were used. Results: Thirty-three studies were included. These were divided into studies that predominantly focused on the behavior (6), stress and strain (22), and well-being (5) of EMS. Only four studies also examined emergency physicians. The studies indicated a high prevalence of psychological and physical stress factors. Burnout and posttraumatic stress disorders have been the most studied consequences of mismatched stress. The health status variable performs better in conjunction with higher qualifications. Age is not a protective variable in some studies. Conclusions: EMS workloads are varied and must be assessed on an individual basis. Studies on emergency physicians are needed. Organizational and personal measures must become the focus of health promotion and prevention in the workplace.
“Does a Good Firm Diminish the Bad Behavior of Its Employees?”: The Sequential Mediation Effect of Organizational Trust and Organizational Commitment, and the Moderation Effect of Work Overload
Authors: Kim Byung-Jik , Jung Se-Youn , Jung Jeyong
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on an employee’s negative behavior, in addition to its intermediating mechanism (i.e., mediators and moderator) in the relationship. This paper proposes that CSR may diminish an employee’s negative behavior, such as counterproductive work behavior. Relying on the context–attitude–behavior framework, this study investigated the mediators and moderator of the relationship between CSR and counterproductive work behavior. Specifically, this study hypothesized that not only does CSR diminish the level of counterproductive work behavior by sequentially boosting the level of employees’ organizational trust and commitment, but their work overload also negatively moderates the association between CSR and organizational trust. Utilizing three-wave time-lagged online survey data from 342 employees in South Korean companies, this study tested the hypotheses by building a moderated mediation model with structural equation modeling analysis. The results indicate that CSR decreases the level of employees’ counterproductive work behavior through enhancing their organizational trust and commitment. Moreover, work overload negatively moderates the association between CSR and organizational trust. The findings of this study make theoretical and practical contributions to the CSR literature.