bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tunable Emission and Color Temperature of Yb3+/Er3+/Tm3+-Tridoped Y2O3-ZnO Ceramic Nano-Phosphors Using Er3+ Concentration and Excitation Pump Power
Authors: Xu Boxu , Song Chao , Song Jie , Huang Rui , Lin Zhenxu , Zhang Yi , Lin Shaomin , Guo Yanqing , Chen Guangxu , Song Jun
Published: June 2022

In this study, a series of well-crystallized Yb3+/Er3+/Tm3+-tridoped Y2O3-ZnO ceramic nano-phosphors were prepared using sol–gel synthesis, and the phosphor structures were studied using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The phosphors were well crystallized and exhibited a sharp-edged angular crystal structure and mesoporous structure consisting of 270 nm nano-particles. All phosphors generated blue, green, and red emission bands attributed to Tm: 1G4→3H6, Er: 2H11/2 (4S3/2)→4I15/2, and Er: 4F9/2→4I15/2 radiative transitions, respectively. Increasing in luminescent centers, weakening of lattice symmetry, and releasing of dormant rare earth ions can enhance all emissions. Er3+ can obtain energy from Tm3+ to enhance green and red emission. These colors can be tuned by optimizing the doping concentrations of the Er3+ ion. The color coordinates were adjusted by tuning both the Er3+ concentration and excitation laser pump power to shift the color coordinates and correlated color temperature. The findings of this study will broaden the potential practical applications of phosphors.
Naringenin Ultrafine Powder Was Prepared by a New Anti-Solvent Recrystallization Method
Authors: Zhang Xiaonan , Huang Yan , Shi Yufei , Chen Mengyu , Zhang Lubin , An Yimin , Liu Zhiwei
Published: June 2022

Raw naringenin directly isolated from plants is significantly limited by its poor dissolution rate and low bioavailability for clinical and in vivo studies. This study reported a method for the preparation of naringenin ultrafine powder (NUP) using a novel anti-solvent recrystallization process; preliminary experiments were conducted using six single-factor experiments. The response surface Box–Behnken (BBD) design was used to optimize the level of factors. The optimal preparation conditions of the DMP were obtained as follows: the feed rate was 40.82 mL/min, the solution concentration was 20.63 mg/mL, and the surfactant ratio was 0.62%. The minimum average particle size was 305.58 ± 0.37 nm in the derived optimum conditions. A scanning electron microscope was used to compare and analyze the appearance and morphology of the powder before and after preparation. The characterization results of FTIR, TG and XRD showed that no chemical change occurred in the powder before and after preparation. Through the simulated gastrointestinal juice digestion experiment, it was confirmed that the absorption rate of NUP was 2.96 times and 4.05 times higher than raw naringenin, respectively. Therefore, the results showed that the reduction in the particle size through the use of low-speed recrystallization could improve the absorption rate and provided a feasible approach for the further applications.
Influence of Structural Parameters on Performance of SAW Resonators Based on 128° YX LiNbO3 Single Crystal
Authors: Geng Wenping , Zhao Caiqin , Xue Feng , Qiao Xiaojun , He Jinlong , Xue Gang , Liu Yukai , Wei Huifen , Bi Kaixi , Mei Linyu , Chou Xiujian
Published: June 2022

The seeking of resonator with high Q and low insertion loss is attractive for critical sensing scenes based on the surface acoustic wave (SAW). In this work, 128° YX LiNbO3-based SAW resonators were utilized to optimize the output performance through IDT structure parameters. Once the pairs of IDTs, the acoustic aperture, the reflecting grid logarithm, and the gap between IDT and reflector are changed, a better resonance frequency of 224.85 MHz and a high Q of 1364.5 were obtained. All the results demonstrate the structure parameters design is helpful for the performance enhancement with regard to SAW resonators, especially for designing and fabricating high-Q devices.
Artificial Synapse Consisted of TiSbTe/SiCx:H Memristor with Ultra-high Uniformity for Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Chen Liangliang , Ma Zhongyuan , Leng Kangmin , Chen Tong , Hu Hongsheng , Yang Yang , Li Wei , Xu Jun , Xu Ling , Chen Kunji
Published: June 2022

To enable a-SiCx:H-based memristors to be integrated into brain-inspired chips, and to efficiently deal with the massive and diverse data, high switching uniformity of the a-SiC0.11:H memristor is urgently needed. In this study, we introduced a TiSbTe layer into an a-SiC0.11:H memristor, and successfully observed the ultra-high uniformity of the TiSbTe/a-SiC0.11:H memristor device. Compared with the a-SiC0.11:H memristor, the cycle-to-cycle coefficient of variation in the high resistance state and the low resistance state of TiSbTe/a-SiC0.11:H memristors was reduced by 92.5% and 66.4%, respectively. Moreover, the device-to-device coefficient of variation in the high resistance state and the low resistance state of TiSbTe/a-SiC0.11:H memristors decreased by 93.6% and 86.3%, respectively. A high-resolution transmission electron microscope revealed that a permanent TiSbTe nanocrystalline conductive nanofilament was formed in the TiSbTe layer during the DC sweeping process. The localized electric field of the TiSbTe nanocrystalline was beneficial for confining the position of the conductive filaments in the a-SiC0.11:H film, which contributed to improving the uniformity of the device. The temperature-dependent I-V characteristic further confirmed that the bridge and rupture of the Si dangling bond nanopathway was responsible for the resistive switching of the TiSbTe/a-SiC0.11:H device. The ultra-high uniformity of the TiSbTe/a-SiC0.11:H device ensured the successful implementation of biosynaptic functions such as spike-duration-dependent plasticity, long-term potentiation, long-term depression, and spike-timing-dependent plasticity. Furthermore, visual learning capability could be simulated through changing the conductance of the TiSbTe/a-SiC0.11:H device. Our discovery of the ultra-high uniformity of TiSbTe/a-SiC0.11:H memristor devices provides an avenue for their integration into the next generation of AI chips.
Recent Progress on Nanocrystalline Metallic Materials for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Li Huafang , Wang Pengyu , Wen Cuie
Published: June 2022

Nanocrystalline (NC) metallic materials have better mechanical properties, corrosion behavior and biocompatibility compared with their coarse-grained (CG) counterparts. Recently, nanocrystalline metallic materials are receiving increasing attention for biomedical applications. In this review, we have summarized the mechanical properties, corrosion behavior, biocompatibility, and clinical applications of different types of NC metallic materials. Nanocrystalline materials, such as Ti and Ti alloys, shape memory alloys (SMAs), stainless steels (SS), and biodegradable Fe and Mg alloys prepared by high-pressure torsion, equiangular extrusion techniques, etc., have better mechanical properties, superior corrosion resistance and biocompatibility properties due to their special nanostructures. Moreover, future research directions of NC metallic materials are elaborated. This review can provide guidance and reference for future research on nanocrystalline metallic materials for biomedical applications.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity of Manganese-Ferrite/Silver Nanocomposite Combined with Two Essential Oils
Authors: Parada Javiera , Díaz Marcela , Hermosilla Edward , Vera Joelis , Tortella Gonzalo , Seabra Amedea B. , Quiroz Andrés , Hormazábal Emilio , Rubilar Olga
Published: June 2022

The antimicrobial activity of metal nanoparticles obtained by biogenic routes has been extensively reported. However, their combined use with other antimicrobial formulations, such as essential oils, remains scarcely explored. In this work, a manganese-ferrite/silver nanocomposite (MnFe2O4/Ag-NC) was synthesized in a two-step procedure: first, MnFe2O4 nanoparticles were produced by a coprecipitation method, followed by in situ biogenic reduction of silver ions using Galega officinalis. MnFe2O4/Ag-NC was characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy equipped with an energy dispersive X-ray analyzer (SEM-EDX), and a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM-SQUID). The antibacterial activity if MnFe2O4/Ag-NC was evaluated against Pseudomonas syringae by determining its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in the presence of two essential oils: eucalyptus oil (EO) and garlic oil (GO). The fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) was also calculated to determine the interaction between MnFe2O4/Ag-NC and each oil. The MIC of MnFe2O4/Ag-NC was eightfold reduced with the two essential oils (from 20 to 2.5 µg mL−1). However, the interaction with EO was synergistic (FIC: 0.5), whereas the interaction with GO was additive (FIC: 0.75). Additionally, a time-kill curve analysis was performed, wherein the MIC of the combination of MnFe2O4/Ag-NC and EO provoked a rapid bactericidal effect, corroborating a strong synergism. These findings suggest that by combining MnFe2O4/Ag-NC with essential oils, the necessary ratio of the nanocomposite to control phytopathogens can be reduced, thus minimizing the environmental release of silver.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Removal of Hexavalent Chromium over Bi12TiO20/RGO Polyhedral Microstructure Photocatalysts
Authors: Gan Huihui , Pan Shuo , Liu Xiuhang , Huang Ying
Published: June 2022

A Bi12TiO20/RGO photocatalyst with polyhedron microstructure was fabricated via the template-free hydrothermal method, and the visible-light-induced photocatalytic activity of the prepared Bi12TiO20 was also evaluated by the photocatalytic reduction of heavy metal pollutants. The structures and optical properties of the prepared Bi12TiO20/RGO were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectrum (UV–vis DRS). The effects of the reaction time and mineralizer concentration on the formation of the Bi12TiO20 polyhedral microstructure were analyzed. The enhanced photocatalytic performances of Bi12TiO20/RGO were observed which were ascribed to the combination of the Bi12TiO20 microstructure induced photogenerated charges and the RGO nanostructure as a photogenerated charges carrier. The effect of organic acids, p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA), chloroacetic acid, and citric acid on the Cr(VI) photocatalytic reduction was also discussed. This work provides an insight into the design of the bismuth-based microstructure photocatalyst towards the application for environment purification of heavy metals.
Antibacterial Activity of Electrospun Polyacrylonitrile Copper Nanoparticle Nanofibers on Antibiotic Resistant Pathogens and Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Authors: Wang William B. , Clapper Jude C.
Published: June 2022

Bacteria induced diseases such as community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) are easily transmitted through respiratory droplets expelled from a person’s nose or mouth. It has become increasingly important for researchers to discover materials that can be implemented in in vitro surface contact settings which disrupt bacterial growth and transmission. Copper (Cu) is known to have antibacterial properties and have been used in medical applications. This study investigates the antibacterial properties of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) based nanofibers coated with different concentrations of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs). Different concentrations of copper sulfate (CuSO4) and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) were mixed with dimethylformamide (DMF) solution, an electrospinning solvent that also acts as a reducing agent for CuSO4, which forms CuNPs and Cu ions. The resulting colloidal solutions were electrospun into nanofibers, which were then characterized using various analysis techniques. Methicillin-Resistant isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, an infective strain that induces pneumonia, were incubated with cutouts of various nanocomposites using disk diffusion methods on Luria-Bertani (LB) agar to test for the polymers’ antibacterial properties. Herein, we disclose that PAN-CuNP nanofibers have successfully demonstrated antibacterial activity against bacteria that were otherwise resistant to highly effective antibiotics. Our findings reveal that PAN-CuNP nanofibers have the potential to be used on contact surfaces that are at risk of contracting bacterial infections, such as masks, in vivo implants, or surgical intubation.
Body Composition-Specific Asthma Phenotypes: Clinical Implications
Authors: Zhang Xin , Deng Ke , Yuan Yulai , Liu Lei , Zhang Shuwen , Wang Changyong , Wang Gang , Zhang Hongping , Wang Lei , Cheng Gaiping , Wood Lisa G. , Wang Gang
Published: June 2022

Background: Previous studies have indicated the limitations of body mass index for defining disease phenotypes. The description of asthma phenotypes based on body composition (BC) has not been largely reported. Objective: To identify and characterize phenotypes based on BC parameters in patients with asthma. Methods: A study with two prospective observational cohorts analyzing adult patients with stable asthma (n = 541 for training and n = 179 for validation) was conducted. A body composition analysis was performed for the included patients. A cluster analysis was conducted by applying a 2-step process with stepwise discriminant analysis. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between identified phenotypes and asthma exacerbations (AEs). The same algorithm for cluster analysis in the independent validation set was used to perform an external validation. Results: Three clusters had significantly different characteristics associated with asthma outcomes. An external validation identified the similarity of the participants in training and the validation set. In the training set, cluster Training (T) 1 (29.4%) was “patients with undernutrition”, cluster T2 (18.9%) was “intermediate level of nutrition with psychological dysfunction”, and cluster T3 (51.8%) was “patients with good nutrition”. Cluster T3 had a decreased risk of moderate-to-severe and severe AEs in the following year compared with the other two clusters. The most important BC-specific factors contributing to being accurately assigned to one of these three clusters were skeletal muscle mass and visceral fat area. Conclusion: We defined three distinct clusters of asthma patients, which had distinct clinical features and asthma outcomes. Our data reinforced the importance of evaluating BC to determining nutritional status in clinical practice.
Ferulic Acid Prevents Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Promoting Fatty Acid Oxidation and Energy Expenditure in C57BL/6 Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Luo Zhixin , Li Mengqian , Yang Qiong , Zhang Yuhong , Liu Fang , Gong Lan , Han Lin , Wang Min
Published: June 2022

There is a consensus that ferulic acid (FA), the most prominent phenolic acid in whole grains, displays a protective effect in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), though its underlying mechanism not fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of FA on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD in mice and its potential mechanism. C57BL/6 mice were divided into the control diet (CON) group, the HFD group, and the treatment (HFD+FA) group, fed with an HFD and FA (100 mg/kg/day) by oral gavage for 12 weeks. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and Oil Red O staining were used to evaluate liver tissue pathological changes and lipid accumulation respectively. It was demonstrated that FA supplementation prevented HFD-induced NAFLD, which was evidenced by the decreased accumulation of lipid and hepatic steatosis in the HFD+FA group. Specifically, FA supplementation decreased hepatic triacylglycerol (TG) content by 33.5% (p < 0.01). Metabolic cage studies reveal that FA-treated mice have elevated energy expenditure by 11.5% during dark phases. Mechanistically, FA treatment increases the expression of rate-limiting enzymes of fatty acid oxidation and ketone body biosynthesis CPT1A, ACOX1 and HMGCS2, which are the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors α (PPARα) targets in liver. In conclusion, FA could effectively prevent HFD-induced NAFLD possibly by activating PPARα to increase energy expenditure and decrease the accumulation of triacylglycerol in the liver.
Management of Central Venous Catheters in Children and Adults on Home Parenteral Nutrition: A French Survey of Current Practice
Authors: Gotchac Julien , Poullenot Florian , Guimber Dominique , Ecochard-Dugelay Emmanuelle , Schneider Stéphane , Peretti Noël , Billiauws Lore , Borderon Corinne , Breton Anne , Chaillou Legault Emilie , Chambrier Cécile , Comte Aurélie , Coste Marie-Edith , Djeddi Djamal , Dubern Béatrice , Dupont Claire , Espeso Lucile , Fayemendy Philippe , Flori Nicolas , Fotsing Ginette , Gastineau Swellen , Goulet Olivier , Guiot Emeline , Jirka Adam , Languepin Jeanne , Layec Sabrina , Quilliot Didier , Rebouissoux Laurent , Seguy David , Talon Isabelle , Turquet Anne , Vallee Marjolaine , Willot Stéphanie , Lamireau Thierry , Enaud Raphael
Published: June 2022

Although central venous catheter (CVC)-related thrombosis (CRT) is a severe complication of home parenteral nutrition (HPN), the amount and quality of data in the diagnosis and management of CRT remain low. We aimed to describe current practices regarding CVC management in French adult and pediatric HPN centers, with a focus on CVC obstruction and CRT. Current practices regarding CVC management in patients on HPN were collected by an online-based cross-sectional survey sent to expert physicians of French HPN centers. We compared these practices to published guidelines and searched for differences between pediatric and adult HPN centers’ practices. Finally, we examined the heterogeneity of practices in both pediatric and adult HPN centers. The survey was completed by 34 centers, including 21 pediatric and 13 adult centers. We found a considerable heterogeneity, especially in the responses of pediatric centers. On some points, the centers’ responses differed from the current guidelines. We also found significant differences between practices in adult and pediatric centers. We conclude that the management of CVC and CRT in patients on HPN is a serious and complex situation for which there is significant heterogeneity between HPN centers. These findings highlight the need for more well-designed clinical trials in this field.
Validation of the Italian Version of the SARC-F Questionnaire to Assess Sarcopenia in Older Adults
Authors: Perna Simone , Gasparri Clara , Ferraris Cinzia , Barrile Gaetan Claude , Cavioni Alessandro , Mansueto Francesca , Patelli Zaira , Peroni Gabriella , Tartara Alice , Zese Marco , Rondanelli Mariangela
Published: June 2022

Background: SARC-F is a simple sarcopenia screening tool. This study aimed to examine the validity of the Italian version of SARC-F. Methods: A total of 97 elderly individuals (37/60 males/females, 65 years and older) who met the study’s selection criteria were included. SARC-F was translated into the Italian language in a culturally responsive manner. The total score was calculated by adding the scores on the five items. The participants were divided into two groups according to the total score (SARC-F < 4 vs. SARC-F ≥ 4), and their associations with various factors (handgrip test, chair stand test, and Skeletal Muscle Index assessed by DXA) have been examined by gender. In addition, the tool’s validity was analyzed by comparing it with different international working group diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia. Results: The total prevalence of sarcopenia according to the SARC-F was 14.2% and, specifically, 12.8% among men and 14.3% in women. The sensitivity of the SARC-F was (male (M): 11–50% and female (F): 22–36%) medium-low compared with the European, international, and Asian criteria of sarcopenia; however, SARC-F showed a high specificity (M: 77.3–100% and F: 79.5–100%) and a moderate Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of (0.669 (CI95%: 0.358–0.830). The participants in the SARC-F ≥ 4 group had poorer handgrip for EWGSOP2 (p < 0.001) and chair stand (p < 0.001) than the participants in the SARC-F < 4 group. Conclusions: The Italian language version of SARC-F showed high specificity, moderate reliability, and good associations with other predictive tests. The Italian version of SARC-F appears to be a useful screening tool for the diagnosis of sarcopenia in Italian elderly populations.
Immune System and Psychological State of Pregnant Women during COVID-19 Pandemic: Are Micronutrients Able to Support Pregnancy?
Authors: Alesci Alessio , Pergolizzi Simona , Fumia Angelo , Miller Anthea , Cernigliaro Caterina , Zaccone Maria , Salamone Vanessa , Mastrantonio Enza , Gangemi Sebastiano , Pioggia Giovanni , Cicero Nicola
Published: June 2022

The immune system is highly dynamic and susceptible to many alterations throughout pregnancy. Since December 2019, a pandemic caused by coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has swept the globe. To contain the spread of COVID-19, immediate measures such as quarantine and isolation were implemented. These containment measures have contributed to exacerbate situations of anxiety and stress, especially in pregnant women, who are already particularly anxious about their condition. Alterations in the psychological state of pregnant women are related to alterations in the immune system, which is more vulnerable under stress. COVID-19 could therefore find fertile soil in these individuals and risk more severe forms. Normally a controlled dietary regimen is followed during pregnancy, but the use of particular vitamins and micronutrients can help counteract depressive-anxiety states and stress, can improve the immune system, and provide an additional weapon in the defense against COVID-19 to bring the pregnancy to fruition. This review aims to gather data on the impact of COVID-19 on the immune system and psychological condition of pregnant women and to assess whether some micronutrients can improve their psychophysical symptoms.
Exploring the Barriers and Motivators to Dietary Adherence among Caregivers of Children with Disorders of Amino Acid Metabolism (AAMDs): A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lim Jing Ying , Rajikan Roslee , Amit Noh , Ali Nazlena Mohamad , Hamid Haslina Abdul , Leong Huey Yin , Mohamad Maslina , Koh Bi Qi , Musa Aini
Published: June 2022

Dietary intervention is generally accepted as the mainstay of treatment for patients with disorders of amino acid metabolism (AAMDs). However, dietary adherence to a low-protein diet is always reported as a common challenge among these patients. This study explored the perception of barriers and motivators to dietary adherence among caregivers of AAMD patients in Malaysia. Twenty caregivers of children with AAMDs receiving ongoing treatment at the genetic clinic participated in an online focus group discussion from November to December 2021. Findings showed a total of five interrelated main themes identified from focus group discussion (FGD) exploring parents’ experiences related to the management of their child’s daily diet. The barriers to dietary adherence were burden of dietary treatment, diet and dietary behavior, parenting challenges, limited knowledge related to dietary treatment, and challenges in healthcare system delivery. Key factors facilitating good dietary adherence include good knowledge of dietary treatment, parental coping strategies, social coping, and dietary behavior. In conclusion, despite the existence of several barriers to the implementation of dietary treatment, caregivers managed to use a wide range of coping strategies to overcome some, if not all, of the challenges. The important next step is to develop, in conjunction with multidisciplinary healthcare professionals, feasible implementation strategies that could address these barriers and at the same time improve the quality of life of caregivers.
Intermittent Fasting: Potential Utility in the Treatment of Chronic Pain across the Clinical Spectrum
Authors: Caron Jesse P. , Kreher Margaret Ann , Mickle Angela M. , Wu Stanley , Przkora Rene , Estores Irene M. , Sibille Kimberly T.
Published: June 2022

Dietary behavior can have a consequential and wide-ranging influence on human health. Intermittent fasting, which involves intermittent restriction in energy intake, has been shown to have beneficial cellular, physiological, and system-wide effects in animal and human studies. Despite the potential utility in preventing, slowing, and reversing disease processes, the clinical application of intermittent fasting remains limited. The health benefits associated with the simple implementation of a 12 to 16 h fast suggest a promising role in the treatment of chronic pain. A literature review was completed to characterize the physiologic benefits of intermittent fasting and to relate the evidence to the mechanisms underlying chronic pain. Research on different fasting regimens is outlined and an overview of research demonstrating the benefits of intermittent fasting across diverse health conditions is provided. Data on the physiologic effects of intermittent fasting are summarized. The physiology of different pain states is reviewed and the possible implications for intermittent fasting in the treatment of chronic pain through non-invasive management, prehabilitation, and rehabilitation following injury and invasive procedures are presented. Evidence indicates the potential utility of intermittent fasting in the comprehensive management of chronic pain and warrants further investigation.
Early and Strong Leptin Reduction Is Predictive for Long-Term Weight Loss during High-Protein, Low-Glycaemic Meal Replacement—A Subanalysis of the Randomised-Controlled ACOORH Trial
Authors: Kempf Kerstin , Röhling Martin , Banzer Winfried , Braumann Klaus Michael , Halle Martin , Schaller Nina , McCarthy David , Predel Hans Georg , Schenkenberger Isabelle , Tan Susanne , Toplak Hermann , Martin Stephan , Berg Aloys ,   ACOORH Study Group
Published: June 2022

Lifestyle interventions including meal replacement are suitable for prevention and treatment of obesity and type-2-diabetes. Since leptin is involved in weight regulation, we hypothesised that a meal replacement-based lifestyle intervention would reduce leptin levels more effectively than lifestyle intervention alone. In the international, multicentre, randomised-controlled ACOORH-trial (Almased-Concept-against-Overweight-and-Obesity-and-Related- Health-Risk), overweight or obese participants with metabolic syndrome criteria (n = 463) were randomised into two groups and received telemonitoring devices and nutritional advice. The intervention group additionally used a protein-rich, low-glycaemic meal replacement. Data were collected at baseline, after 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. All datasets providing leptin data (n = 427) were included in this predefined subanalysis. Serum leptin levels significantly correlated with sex, body mass index, weight, and fat mass at baseline (p < 0.0001). Stronger leptin reduction has been observed in the intervention compared to the control group with the lowest levels after 1 month of intervention (estimated treatment difference −3.4 µg/L [1.4; 5.4] for females; −2.2 µg/L [1.2; 3.3] for males; p < 0.001 each) and was predictive for stronger reduction of body weight and fat mass (p < 0.001 each) over 12 months. Strongest weight loss was observed after 6 months (−5.9 ± 5.1 kg in females of the intervention group vs. −2.9 ± 4.9 kg in the control group (p < 0.0001); −6.8 ± 5.3 kg vs. −4.1 ± 4.4 kg (p = 0.003) in males) and in those participants with combined leptin and insulin decrease. A meal replacement-based lifestyle intervention effectively reduces leptin which is predictive for long-term weight loss.
Calcium Supplementation, Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases, and Mortality: A Real-World Study of the Korean National Health Insurance Service Data
Authors: Park Jae-Min , Lee Bora , Kim Young-Sang , Hong Kyung-Won , Park Yon Chul , Shin Dong Hyeok , Kim Yonghwan , Han Kunhee , Kim Kwangyoon , Shin Junghwa , Kim Mina , Kim Bom-Taeck
Published: June 2022

Few studies have investigated the effects of calcium supplementation on cardiovascular outcomes in individuals with low calcium intake in real-world settings. This study examined the association between calcium supplementation and cardiovascular outcomes in the Korean population in a real-world setting. This large retrospective cohort study included patients aged ≥45 years first prescribed calcium supplements in 2010. Age- and sex-matched controls were recruited among those who had no prescription for calcium supplements. Longitudinal data were collected on 31 December 2018. Kaplan–Meier estimation and Cox proportional hazard regression analysis were performed. The cumulative incidence of acute myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, and death was significantly higher in the calcium supplementation group than in the control group (p < 0.05 by log-rank test). The calcium supplementation group had a significantly higher risk of myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, and death than the control group. Compared to the control group, the hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) of the incidence of myocardial infarction, stroke, and death in the supplementation group were 1.14 (1.03–1.27), 1.12 (1.05–1.20), and 1.40 (1.32–1.50), respectively, after adjusting for confounding variables. Considering the associated cardiovascular risk, calcium supplementation for osteoporosis treatment should be administered cautiously.
1H NMR-Based Metabolomics Reveals the Intrinsic Interaction of Age, Plasma Signature Metabolites, and Nutrient Intake in the Longevity Population in Guangxi, China
Authors: Li He , Ren Minhong , Li Quanyang
Published: June 2022

Health and longevity populations have distinct metabolic and nutrient intake profiles. However, the relationship between biomarkers of longevity-related metabolites and dietary nutrient intake profiles, as well as metabolic markers associated with longevity features, have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR)-based plasma metabolomics profiling was conducted in the present study to identify potential metabolites which can be used as specific markers for the evaluation of healthy aging. Plasma samples were obtained from centenarians and nonagenarians from the longevous region, and elderly participants aged 60–89 from the longevous region, as well as a low centenarian ratio region. The results showed that participants from longevous regions exhibited higher plasma levels of citrate, tyrosine, choline, carnitine, and valine, as well as lower contents of VLDL, lactate, alanine, N-acetyl glycoprotein (NAG), trimethylamine oxide (TMAO), α-glucose, β-glucose, and unsaturated lipids. The differential plasma metabolites were associated with an alteration in glycolysis/gluconeogenesis; aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis; alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism; and phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis in participants from longevous regions. The signature metabolites were associated with higher dietary fiber intake, as well as lower energy and fat intake. The results of the present study demonstrate key longevity signature metabolites in plasma, and the dietary patterns identified provide a basis for further health and longevity research.
The Impact of Dietary Counselling on Achieving or Maintaining Normal Nutritional Status in Patients with Early and Locally Advanced Breast Cancer Undergoing Perioperative Chemotherapy
Authors: Jodkiewicz Magdalena , Jagiełło-Gruszfeld Agnieszka , Surwiłło-Snarska Agnieszka , Kotowicz Beata , Fuksiewicz Małgorzata , Kowalska Maria Małgorzata
Published: June 2022

Background: Obesity is an independent prognostic factor and is associated with poorer response to oncological treatment of breast cancer. Obesity is associated with shorter overall survival and shorter time to recurrence. Material and methods: The study included 104 breast cancer patients qualified for neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The control group consisted of 40 patients who refused to participate in the study. Consultation before chemotherapy included: author’s diet questionnaire, body composition analysis, nutrition education. After chemotherapy, the effects of the first dietary advice were evaluated. Results: More than half of all women had a BMI above normal before treatment. Analysis of the effects of nutrition education showed a significant improvement in body composition. After education, a slight increase in body weight and a significant decrease in fat mass and fat percentage were observed. In women who did not participate in education, a statistically significantly greater increase in body weight after chemotherapy was noted. Nutrition education of the study group did not prevent adverse changes in lipid profile resulting from chemotherapy. Conclusions: Dietary counselling prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy may limit weight gain and may also influence fat mass reduction. Implementation of dietary recommendations does not guarantee maintenance of normal lipid parameters during chemotherapy.
The Associations of Maternal Hemoglobin Concentration in Different Time Points and Its Changes during Pregnancy with Birth Weight Outcomes
Authors: Peng Zhicheng , Si Shuting , Cheng Haoyue , Zhou Haibo , Chi Peihan , Mo Minjia , Zhuang Yan , Liu Hui , Yu Yunxian
Published: June 2022

Maternal hemoglobin (Hb) is related to nutritional status, which affects neonatal birth weight. However, it is very common for maternal Hb to fluctuate during pregnancy. To evaluate the associations of maternal Hb in different time points and its changes during pregnancy with neonatal birth weight, small for gestational age (SGA)/low birth weight (LBW) and large for gestational age (LGA)/macrosomia, we conducted this study by using data from the Electronic Medical Record System (EMRS) database of Zhoushan Maternal and Child Care Hospital in Zhejiang province, China. The pregnancy was divided into five periods: first, early-second, mediate-second, late-second, early-third and late-third trimesters; we further calculated the maternal Hb changes during pregnancy. Overall, the socio-demographic characteristics, health-related information and childbirth-related information of 24,183 mother–infant pairs were obtained. The average Hb concentration during the different periods were 123.95 ± 10.14, 117.95 ± 9.84, 114.31 ± 9.03, 113.26 ± 8.82, 113.29 ± 8.68 and 115.01 ± 8.85 g/L, respectively. Significant dose–response relationships between maternal Hb and birth weight were observed in the first, late-second and later trimesters (p non-linear < 0.05). Maternal Hb < 100 g/L was related to a high risk of LGA/macrosomia in the late-second (OR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.18, 1.83) and later trimesters; additionally, high maternal Hb (>140 g/L) increased the risk of SGA/LBW in the first (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.57) and late-third trimesters (OR: 1.96, 95% CI: 1.20, 3.18). In addition, the increase in maternal Hb from the late-second to late-third trimesters had a positive correlation with SGA/LBW. In conclusion, maternal Hb markedly fluctuated during pregnancy; the negative dose–response association of maternal Hb in the late-second and third trimesters, and Hb change during pregnancy with neonatal birth weight outcomes were observed, respectively. Furthermore, the phenomenon of high Hb in the first trimester and after the late-second trimester and the increase of maternal Hb from the late-second to late-third trimesters more significantly increasing the risk of SGA/LBW should especially be given more attention. Its biological mechanism needs to be further explored.
Probiotic Bifidobacterium breve MCC1274 Mitigates Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Pathologies in Wild-Type Mice
Authors: Abdelhamid Mona , Zhou Chunyu , Jung Cha-Gyun , Michikawa Makoto
Published: June 2022

Probiotics improve brain function, including memory and cognition, via the microbiome–gut–brain axis. Oral administration of Bifidobacterium breve MCC1274 (B. breve MCC1274) improves cognitive function in AppNL-G-F mice and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) subjects, and mitigates Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-like pathologies. However, its effects on wild-type (WT) mice have not yet been explored. Thus, the effects of B. breve MCC1274 on AD-like pathologies in two-month-old WT mice were investigated, which were orally administered B. breve MCC1274 for four months. Aβ levels, amyloid precursor protein (APP), APP processing enzymes, phosphorylated tau, synaptic protein levels, glial activity, and cell proliferation in the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus were evaluated. Data analysis was performed using Student’s t-test, and normality was tested using the Shapiro–Wilk test. Oral administration of B. breve MCC1274 in WT mice decreased soluble hippocampal Aβ42 levels by reducing presenilin1 protein levels, and reduced phosphorylated tau levels. It also activated the protein kinase B (Akt)/glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) pathway, which may be responsible for the reduction in presenilin1 levels and inhibition of tau phosphorylation. B. breve MCC1274 supplementation attenuated microglial activation and elevated synaptic protein levels in the hippocampus. These findings suggest that B. breve MCC1274 may mitigate AD-like pathologies in WT mice by decreasing Aβ42 levels, inhibiting tau phosphorylation, attenuating neuroinflammation, and improving synaptic protein levels.
Comparison of Quality of Carbohydrate Metrics Related to Fasting Insulin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin and HOMA-IR in Brazilian Adolescents
Authors: da Rocha Camilla Medeiros Macedo , Gama Vanessa Proêza Maciel , de Moura Souza Amanda , Massae Yokoo Edna , Verly Junior Eliseu , Bloch Katia Vergetti , Sichieri Rosely
Published: June 2022

Low glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) diets are effective for glycemic control (GC) associated with a carbohydrate-controlled meal plan. However, whether GI and GL peaks are related to GC is unknown. Objective: To compare the daily GI (DGI)/GL (DGL) and average GI (AvGI)/GL (AvGL) of meals (accounting for peaks) related to GC markers (GCM) in Brazilian adolescents. Methods: A representative national school-based (public/private) sample of students without diabetes, 12–17 years of age, was evaluated. Food intake was based on a 24 h recall. The models for complex cluster sampling were adjusted (sex, sexual maturation, age, and physical activity). Results: Of 35,737 students, 74% were from public schools, 60% girls, 17% overweight, and 8% obese. The minimum DGI and DGL were observed at lunch, with higher values at night. Fasting insulin was 1.5 times higher in overweight/obese (OW) girls, and 1.7 times higher in OW boys than in normal-weight (NW) girls. The same trend was observed for the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (OW = 2.82 vs. NW = 1.84 in girls; OW = 2.66 vs. NW = 1.54 in boys; p < 0.05). The daily and average metrics were greater for NW adolescents. Glycosylated hemoglobin was not associated with these metrics, except for AvGL. Insulin and HOMA-IR were associated with all metrics in NW adolescents, with greater coefficients associated with AvGL. Among overweight/obese adolescents, only GI metrics were associated (β = 0.23; AvGI and insulin) and appeared to have the best association with GCM. Conclusions: Among NW adolescents, GL is a better measure of carbohydrate quality, but for those with overweight/obesity, carbohydrate consumption is more associated with GC, probably because they eat/report small amounts of carbohydrates.
Prediction of the Quality of Thermally Sprayed Copper Coatings on Laser-Structured CFRP Surfaces Using Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Gebauer Jana , Gruber Florian , Holfeld Wilhelm , Grählert Wulf , Lasagni Andrés Fabián
Published: June 2022

With the progressive replacement of metallic parts by high-performance fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) components, typical properties of metals are required to be placed on the material’s surface. A metallic coating applied to the FRP surface by thermal spraying, for instance, can fulfill these requirements, including electrical conductivity. In this work, laser pre-treatments are utilized for increasing the bond strength of metallic coatings. However, due to the high-precision material removal using pulsed laser radiation, the production-related heterogeneous fiber distribution in FRP leads to variations in the structuring result and consequently to different qualities of the subsequent coating. In this study, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technologies in conjunction with deep learning were applied to carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRP) structured by nanosecond pulsed laser. HSI-based prediction models could be developed, which allow for reliable prediction, with an accuracy of around 80%, of which laser-treated areas will successfully be coated and which will not. By using this objective and automatic evaluation, it is possible to avoid large amounts of rejects before further processing the parts and also to optimize the adhesion of coatings. Spatially resolved data enables local reworking during the laser process, making it feasible for the manufacturing process to achieve zero waste.
Chemical Diversity and Anti-Insect Activity Evaluation of Essential Oils Extracted from Five Artemisia Species
Authors: Zhang Jia-Wei , Li Bo-Ya , Lu Xin-Xin , Zheng Yu , Wang Dan , Zhang Zhe , Zeng Ding , Du Shu-Shan
Published: June 2022

As a source of aromatic plants, the genus Artemisia has long been considered to have the potential to develop plant pesticides. In this study, components of essential oils from A. dalai-lamae, A. tangutica, A. sieversiana, A. tanacetifolia and A. ordosica were identified by GC-MS. A total of 56 constituents were analysed, and each species consisted of 9 to 24 constituents. Principle component analysis (PCA) revealed that A. dalai-lamae, A. tangutica and A. tanacetifolia are characterised by monoterpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated monoterpenes. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) showed the most remarkable similarity between A. sieversiana and A. ordosica, but the similarity was still lower than 50%. Contact toxicity and repellency of essential oils were evaluated by bioassays; A. ordosica oil exhibited the most substantial contact toxicity (LD50 = 52.11 μg/cm2) against Liposcelis bostrychophila, while A. tangutica oil showed the most potent contact toxicity (LD50 = 17.42 μg/adult) against Tribolium castaneum. Except for A. dalai-lamae, the other four species showed the same level (p > 0.05) of repellent activity as the positive control against both pests at high concentrations. The results indicated that these five Artemisia species had high chemical diversity and great potential to be developed into more effective and environmentally friendly anti-insect agents.
Yield Response of Spring Maize under Future Climate and the Effects of Adaptation Measures in Northeast China
Authors: Koimbori Jackson K. , Wang Shuai , Pan Jie , Guo Liping , Li Kuo
Published: June 2022

Agriculture production has been found to be the most sensitive sector to climate change. Northeast China (NEC) is one of the world’s major regions for spring maize production and it has been affected by climate change due to increases in temperature and decreases in sunshine hours and precipitation levels over the past few decades. In this study, the CERES-Maize model-v4.7 was adopted to assess the impact of future climatic change on the yield of spring maize in NEC and the effect of adaptation measures in two future periods, the 2030s (2021 to 2040) and the 2050s (2041 to 2060) relative to the baseline (1986 to 2005) under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. The results showed that increased temperatures and the decreases in both the precipitation level and sunshine hours in the NEC at six representative sites in the 2030s and 2050s periods based on RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 climate scenarios would shorten the maize growth durations by (1–38 days) and this would result in a reduction in maize yield by (2.5–26.4%). Adaptation measures, including altered planting date, supplemental irrigation and use of cultivars with longer growth periods could offset some negative impacts of yield decrease in maize. For high-temperature-sensitive cultivars, the adoption of early planting, cultivar change and adding irrigation practices could lead to an increase in maize yield by 23.7–43.6% and these measures were shown to be effective adaptation options towards reducing yield loss from climate change. The simulation results exhibited the effective contribution of appropriate adaptation measures in eliminating the negative impact of future climate change on maize yield.
Optimal Deployment of WSN Nodes for Crop Monitoring Based on Geostatistical Interpolations
Authors: Gutierrez Edgar Andres , Mondragon Ivan Fernando , Colorado Julian D. , Mendez Ch Diego
Published: June 2022

This paper proposes an integrated method for the estimation of soil moisture in potato crops that uses a low-cost wireless sensor network (WSN). Soil moisture estimation maps were created by applying the Kriging technique over a WSN composed of 11×11 nodes. Our goal is to estimate the soil moisture of the crop with a small-scale WSN. Using a perfect mesh approach on a potato crop, experimental results demonstrated that 25 WSN nodes were optimal and sufficient for soil moisture characterization, achieving estimations errors <2%. We provide a strategy to select the number of nodes to use in a WSN, to characterize the moisture behavior for spatio-temporal analysis of soil moisture in the crop. Finally, the implementation cost of this strategy is shown, considering the number of nodes and the corresponding margin of error.
Development and Characterization of Fully Renewable and Biodegradable Polyhydroxyalkanoate Blends with Improved Thermoformability
Authors: Feijoo Patricia , Samaniego-Aguilar Kerly , Sánchez-Safont Estefanía , Torres-Giner Sergio , Lagaron Jose M. , Gamez-Perez Jose , Cabedo Luis
Published: June 2022

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-valerate) (PHBV), being one of the most studied and commercially available polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), presents an intrinsic brittleness and narrow processing window that currently hinders its use in several plastic applications. The aim of this study was to develop a biodegradable PHA-based blend by combining PHBV with poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBH), another copolyester of the PHA family that shows a more ductile behavior. Blends of PHBV with 20% wt., 30% wt., and 40% wt. of PHBH were obtained by melt mixing, processed by cast extrusion in the form of films, and characterized in terms of their morphology, crystallization behavior, thermal stability, mechanical properties, and thermoformability. Full miscibility of both biopolymers was observed in the amorphous phase due to the presence of a single delta peak, ranging from 4.5 °C to 13.7 °C. Moreover, the incorporation of PHBH hindered the crystallization process of PHBV by decreasing the spherulite growth rate from 1.0 µm/min to 0.3 µm/min. However, for the entire composition range studied, the high brittleness of the resulting materials remained since the presence of PHBH did not prevent the PHBV crystalline phase from governing the mechanical behavior of the blend. Interestingly, the addition of PHBH greatly improved the thermoformability by widening the processing window of PHBV by 7 s, as a result of the increase in the melt strength of the blends even for the lowest PHBH content.