bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dendritic Cells: Critical Regulators of Allergic Asthma
Authors: Morianos Ioannis , Semitekolou Maria
Published: October 2020

Allergic asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), chronic airway inflammation, and excessive T helper (Th) type 2 immune responses against harmless airborne allergens. Dendritic cells (DCs) represent the most potent antigen-presenting cells of the immune system that act as a bridge between innate and adaptive immunity. Pertinent to allergic asthma, distinct DC subsets are known to play a central role in initiating and maintaining allergen driven Th2 immune responses in the airways. Nevertheless, seminal studies have demonstrated that DCs can also restrain excessive asthmatic responses and thus contribute to the resolution of allergic airway inflammation and the maintenance of pulmonary tolerance. Notably, the transfer of tolerogenic DCs in vivo suppresses Th2 allergic responses and protects or even reverses established allergic airway inflammation. Thus, the identification of novel DC subsets that possess immunoregulatory properties and can efficiently control aberrant asthmatic responses is critical for the re-establishment of tolerance and the amelioration of the asthmatic disease phenotype.
The Basal Pharmacology of Palmitoylethanolamide
Authors: Rankin Linda , Fowler Christopher J.
Published: October 2020

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA, N-hexadecanoylethanolamide) is an endogenous compound belonging to the family of N-acylethanolamines. PEA has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and is very well tolerated in humans. In the present article, the basal pharmacology of PEA is reviewed. In terms of its pharmacokinetic properties, most work has been undertaken upon designing formulations for its absorption and upon characterising the enzymes involved in its metabolism, but little is known about its bioavailability, tissue distribution, and excretion pathways. PEA exerts most of its biological effects in the body secondary to the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α), but PPAR-α-independent pathways involving other receptors (Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), GPR55) have also been identified. Given the potential clinical utility of PEA, not least for the treatment of pain where there is a clear need for new well-tolerated drugs, we conclude that the gaps in our knowledge, in particular those relating to the pharmacokinetic properties of the compound, need to be filled.
Preparation of Binary Thermal Silicone Grease and Its Application in Battery Thermal Management
Authors: Liu Ziqiang , Huang Juhua , Cao Ming , Jiang Guiwen , Hu Jin , Chen Qiang
Published: October 2020

To improve the problems of large interface thermal resistance and low heat dissipation efficiency in battery thermal management (BTM), this paper uses methyl silicone oil as the matrix, AIN, copper powder (CP), and carbon fiber (CF) as thermally conductive fillers, and acetone and stearic acid as particle surface modification components. A variety of binary thermal silicone greases (TSGs) with different compositions were prepared. Different instruments were used to test the material properties of TSGs, and a better TSG was selected to coat the interface between battery and phase change material (PCM) for battery charging and discharging experiments. Through the analysis of experimental data, it was found that among the TSGs made of three mixed fillers (AIN/CP, AIN/CF, CP/CF), the three TSGs had good thermal stability, and their thermal degradation temperature both exceeded 300 °C. As the ratio of thermally conductive filler was gradually changed from 5:1 to 1:5, the TSG containing CP/CF had higher thermal conductivity and lower volume resistivity, while the TSG containing AIN/CF had the least damage due to interface wear. The acidification treatment of thermally conductive filler can improve the adsorption and compatibility of thermally conductive particles and silicone oil, and reduce the oil separation rate of TSGs. The prepared expanded graphite (EG)/paraffin wax (PW) composite phase change material (CPCM) has a relatively large latent heat of phase change, which can effectively control the temperature of the battery, but coating TSG between the battery and the CPCM can further enhance the heat dissipation effect of the battery.
Study of the Incorporation of Ladle Furnace Slag in the Manufacture of Cold In-Place Recycling with Bitumen Emulsion
Authors: Terrones-Saeta Juan María , Iglesias-Godino Francisco Javier , Corpas-Iglesias Francisco Antonio , Martínez-García Carmen
Published: October 2020

Cold in-place recycling with bitumen emulsion is a good environmental option for road conservation. The technique produces lower CO2 emissions because the product is manufactured and spread in the same location as the previous infrastructure, and its mixing with bitumen emulsion occurs at room temperature. Adding materials with cementitious characteristics gives the final mixture greater resistance and durability, and incorporating an industrial by-product such as ladle furnace slag (of which cementitious characteristics have been corroborated by various authors) enables the creation of sustainable, resistant pavement. This paper describes the incorporation of ladle furnace slag in reclaimed asphalt pavements (RAP) to execute in-place asphalt pavement recycling with bitumen emulsion. Various test groups of samples with increasing percentages of emulsion were created to study both the density of the mixtures obtained, and their dry and post-immersion compressive strength. To determine these characteristics, the physical and chemical properties of the ladle furnace slag and the reclaimed asphalt pavements were analyzed, as well as compatibility with the bitumen emulsion. The aforementioned tests define an optimal combination of RAP (90%), ladle furnace slag (10%), water (2.6%), and emulsion (3.3%), which demonstrated maximum values for compressive strength of the dry and post-immersion bituminous mixture. These tests therefore demonstrate the suitability of ladle furnace slag for cold in-place recycling with bitumen emulsion.
Impact of Surface Treatment on the Functional Properties Stainless Steel for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Basiaga Marcin , Walke Witold , Antonowicz Magdalena , Kajzer Wojciech , Szewczenko Janusz , Domanowska Alina , Michalewicz Anna , Szindler Marek , Staszuk Marcin , Czajkowski Miłosz
Published: October 2020

The main goal of the carried out tests was to analyze the influence of the surface modification of a substrate by depositing composite ZnO layers by the Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) method. The samples were subjected to preliminary surface modification consisting of being sandblasted and electropolished. A ZnO layer was applied to the prepared substrates by the ALD method. As a precursor of ZnO, diethylzinc (DEZ) was used, which reacted with water, enabling the deposition of the thin films. The chamber temperature was as follows: T = 100–300 °C. The number of cycles was 500 and 1500. As part of the assessment of the physicochemical properties of the resulting surface layers, the tests of chemical composition of the layer, pitting corrosion, impedance corrosion, adhesion to the metal substrate, morphology surface, and wettability were carried out. On the basis of the obtained research, it was found that a composite ZnO layer deposited onto a substrate previously subjected to the electrochemical polishing process has more favorable physicochemical properties. Moreover, an influence of temperature and the number of cycles of the deposition process on the obtained properties was observed, where the ZnO layer was characterized by more favorable properties at a temperature of 200–300 °C at 1500 cycles of the deposition process.
Biocompatibility of a High-Plasticity, Calcium Silicate-Based, Ready-to-Use Material
Authors: Okamura Tomoharu , Chen Liji , Tsumano Nobuhito , Ikeda Chihoko , Komasa Satoshi , Tominaga Kazuya , Hashimoto Yoshiya
Published: October 2020

The Bio-C Sealer is a recently developed high-plasticity, calcium-silicate-based, ready-to-use material. In the present study, chemical elements of the materials were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The biocompatibility of the Bio-C Sealer was investigated using cytotoxicity tests and histological responses in the roots of dogs’ teeth. XRD, SEM, and FTIR produced hydrated calcium silicate in the presence of water molecules. In addition, FTIR showed the formation of calcium hydroxide and polyethylene glycol, a dispersing agent. The 1:4 dilutions of Bio-C Sealer presented weaker cytotoxicity than the Calcipex II in an in vitro system using the V-79 cell line. After 90 d, the periradicular tissue response of beagle dog roots was histologically evaluated. Absence of periradicular inflammation was reported in 17 of the 18 roots assessed with the Bio-C Sealer, whereas mature vertical periodontal ligament fibers were observed in the apical root ends filled with the Bio-C Sealer. Based on these results and previous investigations, the Bio-C Sealer is recommended as an effective root-end filling material. These results are relevant for clinicians considering the use of Bio-C Sealer for treating their patients.
Three-Dimensional Volume Integral Equation Method for Solving Isotropic/Anisotropic Inhomogeneity Problems
Authors: Lee Jungki , Han Mingu
Published: October 2020

In this paper, the volume integral equation method (VIEM) is introduced for the analysis of an unbounded isotropic solid composed of multiple isotropic/anisotropic inhomogeneities. A comprehensive examination of a three-dimensional elastostatic VIEM is introduced for the analysis of an unbounded isotropic solid composed of isotropic/anisotropic inhomogeneity of arbitrary shape. The authors hope that the volume integral equation method can be used to compute critical values of practical interest in realistic models of composites composed of strong anisotropic and/or heterogeneous inhomogeneities of arbitrary shapes.
Effect of Drying Methods on Lutein Content and Recovery by Supercritical Extraction from the Microalga Muriellopsis sp. (MCH35) Cultivated in the Arid North of Chile
Authors: Ruiz-Domínguez Mari Carmen , Marticorena Paola , Sepúlveda Claudia , Salinas Francisca , Cerezal Pedro , Riquelme Carlos
Published: October 2020

In this study, we determined the effect of drying on extraction kinetics, yield, and lutein content and recovery of the microalga Muriellopsis sp. (MCH35) using the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) process. The strain was cultivated in an open-raceways reactor in the presence of seawater culture media and arid outdoor conditions in the north of Chile. Spray-drying (SD) and freeze-drying (FD) techniques were used for dehydrating the microalgal biomass. Extraction experiments were performed by using Box-Behnken designs, and the parameters were studied: pressure (30–50 MPa), temperature (40–70 °C), and co-solvent (0–30% ethanol), with a CO2 flow rate of 3.62 g/min for 60 min. Spline linear model was applied in the central point of the experimental design to obtain an overall extraction curve and to reveal extraction kinetics involved in the SFE process. A significant increase in all variables was observed when the level of ethanol (15–30% v/v) was increased. However, temperature and pressure were non-significant parameters in the SFE process. The FD method showed an increase in lutein content and recovery by 0.3–2.5-fold more than the SD method. Overall, Muriellopsis sp. (MCH35) is a potential candidate for cost-effective lutein production, especially in desert areas and for different biotechnological applications.
Biotechnological Transformation of Hydrocortisone into 16α-Hydroxyprednisolone by Coupling Arthrobacter simplex and Streptomyces roseochromogenes
Authors: Restaino Odile Francesca , Barbuto Ferraiuolo Simona , Perna Addolorata , Cammarota Marcella , Borzacchiello Maria Giovanna , Fiorentino Antonio , Schiraldi Chiara
Published: October 2020

16α-Hydroxyprednisolone, an anti-inflammatory drug, could be potentially obtained from hydrocortisone bioconversion by combining a 1,2-dehydrogenation reaction performed by Arthrobacter simplexATCC31652 with a 16α-hydroxylation reaction by Streptomyces roseochromogenes ATCC13400. In this study we tested, for the first time, potential approaches to couple the two reactions using similar pH and temperature conditions for hydrocortisone bioconversion by the two strains. The A. simplex capability to 1,2-dehydrogenate the 16α-hydroxyhydrocortisone, the product of S. roseochromogenes transformation of hydrocortisone, and vice versa the capability of S. roseochromogenes to 16α-hydroxylate the prednisolone were assessed. Bioconversions were studied in shake flasks and strain morphology changes were observed by SEM. Whole cell experiments were set up to perform the two reactions in a sequential mode in alternate order or contemporarily at diverse temperature conditions. A. simplex catalyzed either the dehydrogenation of hydrocortisone into prednisolone efficiently or of 16α-hydroxyhydrocortisone into 16α-hydroxyprednisolone in 24 h (up to 93.9%). Surprisingly S. roseochromogenes partially converted prednisolone back to hydrocortisone. A 68.8% maximum of 16α-hydroxyprednisolone was obtained in 120-h bioconversion by coupling whole cells of the two strains at pH 6.0 and 26 °C. High bioconversion of hydrocortisone into 16α-hydroxyprednisolone was obtained for the first time by coupling A. simplex and S. roseochromogenes.
Raman Spectroscopy as Molybdenum and Tungsten Content Analysis Tool for Mesoporous Silica and Beta Zeolite Catalysts
Authors: Velvarská Romana , Tišler Zdeněk , Raichlová Veronika , Hidalgo-Herrador José Miguel
Published: October 2020

Raman spectroscopy was used for the quantitative determination of Mo and W in Mo- and W-supported mesoporous silica (Mo/SBA-15 and W/SBA-15, respectively) and Mo-supported beta zeolite (Mo-BEA). Three Raman quantitative models were developed and optimized for the metal contents of Mo/SBA-15, W/SBA-15, and Mo/BEA. Subsequently, the models were characterized using the root mean square error of calibration (RMSEC), root mean square error of cross-validation (RMSECV), root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP), correlation coefficient, and predicted residual error sum of squares (PRESS) diagnostic function. The calibration range of the models were in the range of approximately 2–40 wt% for the SBA-15 support and 1–21 wt% for the BEA support because the BEA support presented lower Mo absorption than the SBA-15 support. The RMSEC, RMSECV, and RMSEP values were below 1.80% for all developed models. The highest and lowest correlation coefficients corresponded to the W/SBA-15 (0.9984) and Mo/BEA (0.9777) models, respectively. The change in catalyst support affected the mentioned chemometric parameters (Mo/SBA-15 vs. Mo/BEA). Subsequently, Raman spectroscopy combined with the temperature control stage was used to study the calcination of Mo/BEA, Mo/SBA-15, and W/SBA-15 using three-dimensional diagrams, in which the changes in catalyst structure were analyzed as functions of the temperature and time. Raman spectroscopy was determined to be a suitable analytical tool for the quantitative analysis of the metal contents of the catalyst and optimization of the calcination process. Therefore, Raman spectroscopy can be used during catalyst manufacturing.
Biocatalytic Strategy for Grafting Natural Lignin with Aniline
Authors: Ion Sabina Gabriela , Brudiu Teodor , Hanganu Anamaria , Munteanu Florentina , Enache Madalin , Maria Gabriel-Mihai , Tudorache Madalina , Parvulescu Vasile
Published: October 2020

This paper presents an enzyme biocatalytic method for grafting lignin (grafting bioprocess) with aniline, leading to an amino-derivatized polymeric product with modified properties (e.g., conductivity, acidity/basicity, thermostability and amino-functionalization). Peroxidase enzyme was used as a biocatalyst and H2O2 was used as an oxidation reagent, while the oxidative insertion of aniline into the lignin structure followed a radical mechanism specific for the peroxidase enzyme. The grafting bioprocess was tested in different configurations by varying the source of peroxidase, enzyme concentration and type of lignin. Its performance was evaluated in terms of aniline conversion calculated based on UV-vis analysis. The insertion of amine groups was checked by 1H-NMR technique, where NH protons were detected in the range of 5.01–4.99 ppm. The FTIR spectra, collected before and after the grafting bioprocess, gave evidence for the lignin modification. Finally, the abundance of grafted amine groups was correlated with the decrease of the free –OH groups (from 0.030 to 0.009 –OH groups/L for initial and grafted lignin, respectively). Additionally, the grafted lignin was characterized using conductivity measurements, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), temperature-programmed desorption (TPD-NH3/CO2) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. The investigated properties of the developed lignopolymer demonstrated its disposability for specific industrial applications of derivatized lignin.
Hybrid Polymer Composites of Bio-Based Bast Fibers with Glass, Carbon and Basalt Fibers for Automotive Applications—A Review
Authors: Saleem Anjum , Medina Luisa , Skrifvars Mikael , Berglin Lena
Published: October 2020

Composites with reinforcements based on bast fibers such as flax, hemp and kenaf offer many advantages such as weight reduction, improved specific impact, flexural, acoustic properties, and balanced performance to cost that can be achieved by properly designing the material composition. Their position is well established, especially in the nonstructural automotive applications. However, in structural applications of composites, their mechanical property profile is not comparable to the dominant reinforcements such as glass and carbon fibers. The low mechanical properties of these composites could be improved by hybridization that involves adding high-performance fibers to the bast fiber composites that could improve the low mechanical performance of the bast fiber composites. The review presented in this article provides an overview of the developments in the field of hybrid polymer composites composed of bio-based bast fibers with glass, carbon, and basalt fibers. The focus areas are the composite manufacturing methods, the influence of hybridization on the mechanical properties, and the applications of hybrid composites.
Dynamic Structure and Stability of DNA Duplexes Bearing a Dinuclear Hg(II)-Mediated Base Pair
Authors: Bachmann Jim , Schönrath Isabell , Müller Jens , Doltsinis Nikos L.
Published: October 2020

Quantum mechanical (QM) and hybrid quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) molecular dynamics simulations of a recently reported dinuclear mercury(II)-mediated base pair were performed aiming to analyse its intramolecular bonding pattern, its stability, and to obtain clues on the mechanism of the incorporation of mercury(II) into the DNA. The dynamic distance constraint was employed to find initial structures, control the dissociation process in an unbiased fashion and to determine the free energy required. A strong influence of the exocyclic carbonyl or amino groups of neighbouring base pairs on both the bonding pattern and the mechanism of incorporation was observed. During the dissociation simulation, an amino group of an adenine moiety of the adjacent base pair acts as a turnstile to rotate the mercury(II) ion out of the DNA core region. The calculations provide an important insight into the mechanism of formation of this dinuclear metal-mediated base pair and indicate that the exact location of a transition metal ion in a metal-mediated base pair may be more ambiguous than derived from simple model building.
Orders of Healthier Adult Menu Items in a Full-Service Restaurant Chain with a Healthier Children’s Menu
Authors: Mueller Megan P. , Shonkoff Eleanor T. , Folta Sara C. , Anzman-Frasca Stephanie , Economos Christina D.
Published: October 2020

This study evaluated orders of adult menu items designated as healthier at the Silver Diner, a regional full-service restaurant chain serving over 4 million customers annually. This restaurant implemented a healthier children’s menu in April 2012. Orders of adult menu items were abstracted from before (September 2011–March 2012; PRE; n = 1,801,647) and after (September 2012–March 2013; POST; n = 1,793,582) the healthier children’s menu was introduced. Entrées, appetizers, and sides listed as healthier options on the menu were coded as healthier. PRE to POST changes in the percentage of orders of healthier items, soda, and dessert were evaluated using McNemar tests of paired proportions. Orders of healthier entrées, appetizers, and sides on the adult menu increased PRE to POST (8.9% to 10.4%, 25.5% to 27.5%, and 7.3% to 9.3%, respectively), and soda and dessert orders decreased (23.2% to 21.7% and 29.0% to 28.3%, respectively). All shifts were statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Our findings demonstrate improvements in orders of healthier adult menu options during the same time frame as a healthy children’s menu change. Future research can help elucidate mechanisms to inform future health promotion efforts in restaurants in ways that have the potential to impact both adults and children.
Efficacy and Safety of the Combination of Superoxide Dismutase, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin B12, and Carnitine for 12 Months in Patients with Diabetic Neuropathy
Authors: Didangelos Triantafyllos , Karlafti Eleni , Kotzakioulafi Evangelia , Kontoninas Zisis , Margaritidis Charalampos , Giannoulaki Parthena , Kantartzis Konstantinos
Published: October 2020

Aim: To investigate the efficacy of Superoxide Dismutase, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Acetyl L-Carnitine, and Vitamin B12 (B12) in one tablet in Diabetic Neuropathy (DN). Patients–methods: In this prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 85 patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 (DMT2) were randomly assigned, either to receive the combination of four elements (active group, n = 43), or placebo (n = 42) for 12 months. We used the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument Questionnaire and Examination (MNSIQ and MNSIE), measured the vibration perception threshold (BIO), and Cardiovascular Autonomic Reflex Tests (CARTs). Nerve function was assessed by DPN Check [sural nerve conduction velocity (SNCV) and amplitude (SNAP)]. Pain (PS) and quality of life (QL) questionnaires were administered. Results: At follow-up, BIO, MNSIQ, QL, PAIN, and SNCV, SNAP, and B12 levels had significantly improved inactive group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.027, p = 0.031, and p < 0.001 respectively), whereas the inplacebo group MCR (mean circular resultant) and PAIN deteriorated (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). The changes in MNSIQ, QL, SNCV, BIO, and PAIN differed significantly between groups (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.031, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001 respectively). Conclusions: The combination of the four elements in one tablet for 12 months in patients with DMT2 improved all indices of peripheral neuropathy, including SNAP and SNCV, pain, and Quality of Life perception, except CARTs and MNSIE.
Energy Availability in Male and Female Elite Wheelchair Athletes over Seven Consecutive Training Days
Authors: Egger Thomas , Flueck Joelle Leonie
Published: October 2020

Background: Low energy availability (LEA) is a major problem as athletes often restrict their energy intake. It has been shown that LEA occurs often in female and endurance athletes and in athletes from weight-sensitive or aesthetic sports. The purpose of this study was to investigate energy availability (EA) in elite wheelchair athletes. Methods: Fourteen elite wheelchair athletes (8 males; 6 females) participated. Data were collected using a weighed seven-day food and training diary to estimate energy intake and exercise energy expenditure. Resting energy expenditure and body composition were measured, whereas energy balance (EB) was calculated. Results: Measured over 7 days, EA was significantly different (36.1 ± 6.7 kcal kg−1 FFM day−1) in male compared to female (25.1 ± 7.1 kcal kg−1 FFM day−1) athletes (p < 0.001). From all analyzed days, LEA occurred in 73% of the days in female athletes and in 30% of the days in male athletes. EB was positive in male athletes (+169.1 ± 304.5 kcal) and negative (−288.9 ± 304.8 kcal) in female athletes. Conclusions: A higher prevalence of LEA was found in female compared to male athletes. A higher energy intake would be recommended to meet energy needs and to maximize training adaptation.
Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Self-efficacy as Mediators in the Mediation of Sleep Quality and Grades in Nursing Students
Authors: Fernández-Medina Isabel María , Ruíz-Fernández María Dolores , Hernández-Padilla José Manuel , Granero-Molina José , Fernández-Sola Cayetano , Jiménez-Lasserrotte María del Mar , Lirola María-Jesús , Cortés-Rodríguez Alda Elena , López-Rodríguez María Mar
Published: October 2020

University is a period in which students can experience a considerable amount of challenges that may influence their health lifestyles. The aim of this article is to discover the role of therapeutic adherence to the Mediterranean diet and self-efficacy as mediators in the relationship between sleep quality and the average grades of nursing students. The sample was made up of 334 nursing students, with a mean age of 21.84 years (SD = 6.24). Pittsburgh Sleep Quality questionnaires, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and the Baessler and Shwarzer General Self-efficacy Scale were administered. The results of the multiple mediational model determined that quality of sleep has a direct influence on academic performance. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and quality of sleep have an effect on the degree of self-efficacy of nursing students. This study demonstrates that good sleep quality and adherence to the Mediterranean diet improve academic performance in nursing students. Future research should include multicenter longitudinal studies.
Changes in Erythrocyte Omega-3 Fatty Acids in German Employees upon Dietary Advice by Corporate Health
Authors: Rein Dietrich , Claus Matthias , Frosch Wolfgang , März Winfried , Lorkowski Stefan , Webendoerfer Stefan , Schreiner Thorsten
Published: October 2020

Background: The erythrocyte ratio of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) over total fatty acids, the omega-3 index (O3I), has been suggested as an overall health marker and to motivate corporate health recommendations. We set out to assess the O3I status in a working population, the differences between normal and rotating shift employees, the consumption of omega-3 rich food and whether recommendations to increase intake of omega-3 rich foods can improve the O3I. Methods: Employees registered for their occupational health check-up were offered to participate in a pre-post study at the Ludwigshafen (Germany) site including an assessment of their O3I at baseline and after 4 months (follow-up) and two subsequent food frequency questionnaires. For those with O3I below 8%, a recommendation was provided to increase the intake of omega-3 fatty acid rich food and to take advantage of the employees’ catering service with its enhanced fatty seafood offer during the study period. Dietary intake of EPA and DHA, erythrocyte fatty acid profiles, clinical and lifestyle parameters were assessed. Results: In 500 employees (26.6% female, 21–64 years, median age: 47 years [IQR: 37–53]), at baseline the overall mean O3I was 4.1 ± 1.1% (99.6% of O3I assessed were below 8%), higher in women, in participants with “normal” body weight, upper employment grade, and non-smokers, but not different between regular and rotating shift workers. The three fifths of the cohort also participating in the follow-up increased their EPA and DHA intake by 0.1 g/d and their O3I by 0.5 percentage points. Conclusion: This study provides essential data on omega-3 erythrocyte concentrations in a clinically healthy German working population and the challenges of increasing the O3I with dietary recommendations even in study participants motivated to follow up on their omega-3 status.
The Anabolic Response to Dietary Protein Is Not Limited by the Maximal Stimulation of Protein Synthesis in Healthy Older Adults: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Park Sanghee , Jang Jiwoong , Choi Myung Dong , Shin Yun-A , Schutzler Scott , Azhar Gohar , Ferrando Arny A. , Wolfe Robert R. , Kim Il-Young
Published: October 2020

We have recently demonstrated in young adults that an anabolic response with mixed meal protein intake above ~35 g/meal, previously recognized as an “optimal” protein dose, was further stimulated. However, it is unknown if this applies to older adults. We therefore examined anabolic response to a mixed meal containing either 35 g (MOD, moderate amount of protein) or 70 g (HIGH, high amount of protein) in a randomized cross-over metabolic study in older adults (n = 8). Primed continuous infusions of L-[2H5] phenylalanine and L-[2H2]tyrosine were performed to determine whole-body protein kinetics and muscle protein fractional synthesis rate (MPS) in basal fasted and fed states. Whole-body protein kinetics (NB, net protein balance; PS, protein synthesis; PB, protein breakdown) and MPS was expressed as changes from the baseline post-absorptive state. Consistent with our previous findings in young adults, both feedings resulted in a positive NB, with HIGH being more positive than MOD. Furthermore, NB (expressed as g protein∙240 min) increased linearly with an increasing amount of protein intake, expressed relative to lean body mass. The positive NB was achieved due mainly to the suppression of PB in both MOD and to a greater extent HIGH, while PS was only increased in HIGH. Consistent with the whole-body data, MPS was significantly higher in HIGH than MOD. Plasma concentrations of essential amino acids and insulin were greater in HIGH vs. MOD. We conclude that in the context of mixed meals, whole-body anabolic response linearly increases with increasing protein intake primarily through the suppression of PB, and MPS was further stimulated with protein intake above the previously considered “optimal” protein dose in older adults.
Erratum: Development of Poly(l-Lactic Acid)-Based Bending Actuators. Polymers 2020, 12, 1187
Authors: Correia Daniela M. , Fernandes Liliana C. , Cruz Bárbara D. D. , Botelho Gabriela , Bermudez Verónica de Zea , Lanceros-Méndez Senentxu
Published: October 2020

The authors wish to make a change to their published paper [...]
Lignin-Based Nanoparticles: A Review on Their Preparations and Applications
Authors: Tang Qianqian , Qian Yong , Yang Dongjie , Qiu Xueqing , Qin Yanlin , Zhou Mingsong
Published: October 2020

Lignin is the most abundant by-product from the pulp and paper industry as well as the second most abundant natural renewable biopolymer after cellulose on earth. In recent years, transforming unordered and complicated lignin into ordered and uniform nanoparticles has attracted wide attention due to their excellent properties such as controlled structures and sizes, better miscibility with polymers, and improved antioxidant activity. In this review, we first introduce five important technical lignin from different sources and then provide a comprehensive overview of the recent progress of preparation techniques which are involved in the fabrication of various lignin-based nanoparticles and their industrial applications in different fields such as drug delivery carriers, UV absorbents, hybrid nanocomposites, antioxidant agents, antibacterial agents, adsorbents for heavy metal ions and dyes, and anticorrosion nanofillers.
A Process Analytical Concept for In-Line FTIR Monitoring of Polysiloxane Formation
Authors: Steinbach Julia C. , Schneider Markus , Hauler Otto , Lorenz Günter , Rebner Karsten , Kandelbauer Andreas
Published: October 2020

The chemical synthesis of polysiloxanes from monomeric starting materials involves a series of hydrolysis, condensation and modification reactions with complex monomeric and oligomeric reaction mixtures. Real-time monitoring and precise process control of the synthesis process is of great importance to ensure reproducible intermediates and products and can readily be performed by optical spectroscopy. In chemical reactions involving rapid and simultaneous functional group transformations and complex reaction mixtures, however, the spectroscopic signals are often ambiguous due to overlapping bands, shifting peaks and changing baselines. The univariate analysis of individual absorbance signals is hence often only of limited use. In contrast, batch modelling based on the multivariate analysis of the time course of principal components (PCs) derived from the reaction spectra provides a more efficient tool for real-time monitoring. In batch modelling, not only single absorbance bands are used but information over a broad range of wavelengths is extracted from the evolving spectral fingerprints and used for analysis. Thereby, process control can be based on numerous chemical and morphological changes taking place during synthesis. “Bad” (or abnormal) batches can quickly be distinguished from “normal” ones by comparing the respective reaction trajectories in real time. In this work, FTIR spectroscopy was combined with multivariate data analysis for the in-line process characterization and batch modelling of polysiloxane formation. The synthesis was conducted under different starting conditions using various reactant concentrations. The complex spectral information was evaluated using chemometrics (principal component analysis, PCA). Specific spectral features at different stages of the reaction were assigned to the corresponding reaction steps. Reaction trajectories were derived based on batch modelling using a wide range of wavelengths. Subsequently, complexity was reduced again to the most relevant absorbance signals in order to derive a concept for a low-cost process spectroscopic set-up which could be used for real-time process monitoring and reaction control.
Quantitative Investigation of the Process Parameters of Electrohydrodynamic Direct-Writing and Their Effects on Fiber Surface Roughness and Cell Adhesion
Authors: Jiang Chen , Wang Kan , Jiang Xuzhou , Zhang Chuck , Wang Ben
Published: October 2020

Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) direct-writing has been widely used to fabricate micro/nanofibers that can serve as a building block in tissue engineering scaffolds. However, the application of EHD direct-writing in tissue engineering is limited by the lack of fundamental knowledge in the correlations among the process parameters, the fiber surface roughness, and the cell adhesion performance. Without a standardized experimental setting and the quantitative database, inconsistent results have been reported. Here, we quantitatively investigate the process–structure–property relationships as the first step towards a better understanding of the EHD direct-writing technology for tissue engineering. Polycaprolactone (PCL) solution is used as a model ink material, and human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are used to study cell adhesion on PCL fibers. We investigate the different jetting modes defined by the applied voltage, the feed rate, and the nozzle–collector distance. The quantitative effects of process parameters on the fiber surface roughness and the cell adhesion performance are experimentally determined. The quantitative process–structure–property relationships revealed in this study provide guidelines for controlling the surface roughness and the cell adhesion performance of EHD direct-written fibers. This study will facilitate the application of EHD direct-writing in tissue engineering.
Structure–Properties Relationship in Waterborne Poly(Urethane-Urea)s Synthesized with Dimethylolpropionic Acid (DMPA) Internal Emulsifier Added before, during and after Prepolymer Formation
Authors: Fuensanta Mónica , Khoshnood Abbas , Martín-Martínez José Miguel
Published: October 2020

Dimethylolpropionic acid (DMPA) internal emulsifier has been added before, during and after prepolymer formation in the synthesis of waterborne poly(urethane-urea)s (PUDs) and their structure–properties relationships have been assessed. PUDs were characterized by pH, viscosity and particle size measurements, and the structure of the poly(urethane-urea) (PU) films was assessed by infra-red spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, thermal gravimetric analysis, plate–plate rheology and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. The adhesion properties of the PUDs were measured by cross-hatch adhesion and T-peel test. The lowest pH value and the highest mean particle size were found in the PUD made by adding DMPA after prepolymer formation, all PUDs showed relatively ample mono-modal particle size distributions. The highest viscosity and noticeable shear thinning were obtained in the PUD made by adding DMPA during prepolymer formation. Depending on the stage of addition of DMPA, the length of the prepolymer varied and the PU films showed different degree of micro-phase separation. Because the shortest prepolymer was formed in the PU made with DMPA added before prepolymer, this PU film showed the lowest storage moduli and early melting indicating higher degree of micro-phase separation. The highest storage modulus, later melting, higher temperature and lower modulus at the cross between the storage and loss moduli corresponded to the PU made by adding DMPA after prepolymer formation, because the longer prepolymer produced during synthesis. The lowest thermal stability corresponded to the PU made by adding DMPA during prepolymer formation and the structures of all PU films were dominated by the soft domains, the main structural differences derived from the hard domains. Whereas DMPA-isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) urethane and urea hard domains were created in the PU film made by adding DMPA during prepolymer formation, the other PU films showed DMPA-IPDI, polyester-IPDI and two different DMPA-IPDI-polyester hard domains. Finally, the adhesion properties of the PUDs and PU coatings were excellent and they were not influenced by the structural differences caused by adding DMPA in different stages of the synthesis.
Correlation of the Abbe Number, the Refractive Index, and Glass Transition Temperature to the Degree of Polymerization of Norbornane in Polycarbonate Polymers
Authors: Kato Noriyuki , Ikeda Shinya , Hirakawa Manabu , Ito Hiroshi
Published: October 2020

The influences of the average degree of polymerization (Dp), which is derived from Mn and terminal end group, on optical and thermal properties of various refractive indexed transparent polymers were investigated. In this study, we selected the alicyclic compound, Dinorbornane dimethanol (DNDM) homo polymer, because it has been used as a representative monomer in low refractive index polymers for its unique properties. DNDM monomer has a stable amorphous phase and reacts like a polymer. Its unique reaction allows continuous investigation from monomer to polymer. For hydroxy end group and phenolic end group polymers, the refractive index (nd) decreased with increasing Dp, and both converged to same value in the high Dp region. However, the Abbe number (νd) of a hydroxy end group polymer is not dependent on Dp, and the νd of a phenolic end group polymer is greatly dependent on Dp. As for glass transition temperatures (Tg), both end group series were increased as Dp increased, and both converged to the same value.
A Facile Method for the Fabrication of Silver Nanoparticles Surface Decorated Polyvinyl Alcohol Electrospun Nanofibers and Controllable Antibacterial Activities
Authors: Yang Yan , Zhang Zhijie , Wan Menghui , Wang Zhihua , Zou Xueyan , Zhao Yanbao , Sun Lei
Published: October 2020

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) electrospun nanofibers (NFs) are ideal carriers for loading silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) serving as antibacterial materials. However, it is still a challenge to adjust the particles size, distribution, and loading density via a convenient and facile method in order to obtain tunable structure and antimicrobial activities. In this study, Ag NPs surface decorated PVA composite nanofibers (Ag/PVA CNFs) were fabricated by the solvothermal method in ethylene glycol, which plays the roles of both reductant and solvent. The morphology and structure of the as-fabricated Ag/PVA CNFs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction, X-ray diffraction, UV-visible spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Ag NPs had an average diameter of 30 nm, the narrowest size distribution and the highest loading density were successfully decorated on the surfaces of PVA NFs, at the AgNO3 concentration of 0.066 mol/L. The antibacterial properties were evaluated by the methods of absorption, turbidity, and growth curves. The as-fabricated Ag/PVA hybrid CNFs exhibit excellent antimicrobial activities with antibacterial rates over 98%, especially for the sample prepared with AgNO3 concentration of 0.066 mol/L. Meanwhile, the antibacterial effects are more significant in the Gram-positive bacteria of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) than the Gram-negative bacteria of Escherichia coli (E. coli), since PVA is more susceptive to S. aureus. In summary, the most important contribution of this paper is the discovery that the particles size, distribution, and loading density of Ag NPs on PVA NFs can be easily controlled by adjusting AgNO3 concentrations, which has a significant impact on the antibacterial activities of Ag/PVA CNFs.
Exploring the Association between Cannabis Use and Testosterone Levels in Men Receiving Methadone Maintenance Treatment
Authors: Chai Darren , Rosic Tea , Bawor Monica , Samaan Zainab
Published: October 2020

Cannabis and opioids are substances that affect reproductive health. Opioids suppress testosterone and studies have shown that cannabis may increase testosterone. However, there is minimal research describing the endocrine effects of concurrent cannabis and opioid use. We hypothesize that cannabis use improves opioid-induced testosterone suppression. To test this hypothesis, we used cross-sectional data from a prospective cohort study including 122 men enrolled in methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). We measured serum testosterone with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at study enrolment. Urine drug screens were collected for 15 months and identified 52.5% of participants (n = 64) as cannabis users. The association between cannabis use and testosterone level was examined using regression models with serum testosterone as the dependent variable. In our multivariable regression, methadone dose was associated with lower serum testosterone (β = −0.003, 95% CI-0.005, −0.001, p = 0.003). However, neither cannabis use as a dichotomous variable nor the percentage of cannabis-positive urine drug screens were significantly associated with serum testosterone (β = 0.143, 95% CI −0.110, 0.396, p = 0.266, and β = 0.002, 95% CI > −0.001, 0.005, p = 0.116, respectively). Therefore, it does not appear that cannabis has an association with testosterone levels in men on MMT.
Assessment of Factors Causing Bias in Marketing- Related Publications
Authors: Morkunas Mangirdas , Rudienė Elzė , Giriūnas Lukas , Daučiūnienė Laura
Published: October 2020

The present paper aims at revealing and ranking the factors that most frequently cause bias in marketing-related publications. In order to rank the factors causing bias, the authors employed the Analytic Hierarchy Process method with three different scales representing all scale groups. The data for the study were obtained through expert survey, which involved nine experts both from the academia and scientific publishing community. The findings of the study confirm that factors that most frequently cause bias in marketing related publications are sampling and sample frame errors, failure to specify the inclusion and exclusion criteria for researched subjects and non-responsiveness.
The Ontology, Arrangement, and Appearance of Paradise in Castilian Kabbalah in Light of Contemporary Islamic Traditions from al-Andalus
Authors: Bar-Asher Avishai
Published: October 2020

This study is a comparative analysis of the appearances of the lower and upper Paradise, their divisions, and the journeys to and within them, which appear in mystical Jewish and Islamic sources in medieval Iberia. Ibn al-‘Arabī’s vast output on the Gardens of divine reward and their divisions generated a number of instructive comparisons to the eschatological and theosophical writing about the same subject in early Spanish Kabbalah. Although there is no direct historical evidence that kabbalists knew of such Arabic works from the region Catalonia or Andalusia, there are commonalities in fundamental imagery and in ontological and exegetical assumptions that resulted from an internalization of similar patterns of thought. It is quite reasonable to assume that these literary corpora, both products of the thirteenth century, were shaped by common sources from earlier visionary literature. The prevalence of translations of religious writing about ascents on high, produced in Castile in the later thirteenth century, can help explain the sudden appearance of visionary literature on Paradise and its divisions in the writings of Jewish esotericists of the same region. These findings therefore enrich our knowledge of the literary, intellectual, and creative background against which these kabbalists were working when they chose to depict Paradise in the way that they did, at the time that they did.
Impact of Molecular Spectroscopy on Carbon Monoxide Abundances from TROPOMI
Authors: Hochstaffl Philipp , Schreier Franz , Birk Manfred , Wagner Georg , G. Feist Dietrich , Notholt Justus , Sussmann Ralf , Té Yao
Published: October 2020

The impact of SEOM–IAS (Scientific Exploitation of Operational Missions–Improved Atmospheric Spectroscopy) spectroscopic information on CO columns from TROPOMI (Tropospheric Monitoring Instrument) shortwave infrared (SWIR) observations was examined. HITRAN 2016 (High Resolution Transmission) and GEISA 2015 (Gestion et Etude des Informations Spectroscopiques Atmosphériques 2015) were used as a reference upon which the spectral fitting residuals, retrieval errors and inferred quantities were assessed. It was found that SEOM–IAS significantly improves the quality of the CO retrieval by reducing the residuals to TROPOMI observations. The magnitude of the impact is dependent on the climatological region and spectroscopic reference used. The difference in the CO columns was found to be rather small, although discrepancies reveal, for selected scenes, in particular, for observations with elevated molecular concentrations. A brief comparison to Total Column Carbon Observing Network (TCCON) and Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC) also demonstrated that both spectroscopies cause similar columns; however, the smaller retrieval errors in the SEOM with Speed-Dependent Rautian and line-Mixing (SDRM) inferred CO turned out to be beneficial in the comparison of post-processed mole fractions with ground-based references.