bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on the Mathematical Relation Model of Structural Reliability and Structural Robustness
Authors: Jin Qi-Wen , Liu Zheng , He Shuan-Hai
Published: March 2021

Structural reliability and structural robustness, from different research fields, are usually employed for the evaluative analysis of building and civil engineering structures. Structural reliability has been widely used for structural analysis and optimization design, while structural robustness is still in rapid development. Several dimensionless evaluation indexes have been defined for structural robustness so far, such as the structural reliability-based redundancy index. However, these different evaluation indexes are usually based on subjective definitions, and they are also difficult to put into engineering practice. The mathematical relational model between structural reliability and structural robustness has not been established yet. This paper is a quantitative study, focusing on the mathematical relation between structural reliability and structural robustness so as to further develop the theory of structural robustness. A strain energy evaluation index for structural robustness is introduced firstly by considering the energy principle. The mathematical relation model of structural reliability and structural robustness is then derived followed by a further comparative study on sensitivity, structural damage, and random variation factor. A cantilever beam and a truss beam are also presented as two case studies. In this study, a parabolic curve mathematical model between structural reliability and structural robustness is established. A significant variation trend for their sensitivities is also observed. The complex interaction mechanism of the joint effect of structural damage and random variation factor is also reflected. With consideration of the variation trend of the structural reliability index that is affected by different degrees of structural damage (mild impairment, moderate impairment, and severe impairment), a three-stage framework for structural life-cycle maintenance management is also proposed. This study can help us gain a better understanding of structural robustness and structural reliability. Some practical references are also provided for the better decision-making of maintenance and management departments.
Seawater Reverse Osmosis Desalination
Authors: Kurihara Masaru
Published: March 2021

In finalizing this Special Issue “Seawater Reverse Osmosis Desalination”, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to the authors for their contribution of articles and reviews [...]
Frontiers of Membrane Desalination Processes for Brackish Water Treatment: A Review
Authors: Honarparvar Soraya , Zhang Xin , Chen Tianyu , Alborzi Ashkan , Afroz Khurshida , Reible Danny
Published: March 2021

Climate change, population growth, and increased industrial activities are exacerbating freshwater scarcity and leading to increased interest in desalination of saline water. Brackish water is an attractive alternative to freshwater due to its low salinity and widespread availability in many water-scarce areas. However, partial or total desalination of brackish water is essential to reach the water quality requirements for a variety of applications. Selection of appropriate technology requires knowledge and understanding of the operational principles, capabilities, and limitations of the available desalination processes. Proper combination of feedwater technology improves the energy efficiency of desalination. In this article, we focus on pressure-driven and electro-driven membrane desalination processes. We review the principles, as well as challenges and recent improvements for reverse osmosis (RO), nanofiltration (NF), electrodialysis (ED), and membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI). RO is the dominant membrane process for large-scale desalination of brackish water with higher salinity, while ED and MCDI are energy-efficient for lower salinity ranges. Selective removal of multivalent components makes NF an excellent option for water softening. Brackish water desalination with membrane processes faces a series of challenges. Membrane fouling and scaling are the common issues associated with these processes, resulting in a reduction in their water recovery and energy efficiency. To overcome such adverse effects, many efforts have been dedicated toward development of pre-treatment steps, surface modification of membranes, use of anti-scalant, and modification of operational conditions. However, the effectiveness of these approaches depends on the fouling propensity of the feed water. In addition to the fouling and scaling, each process may face other challenges depending on their state of development and maturity. This review provides recent advances in the material, architecture, and operation of these processes that can assist in the selection and design of technologies for particular applications. The active research directions to improve the performance of these processes are also identified. The review shows that technologies that are tunable and particularly efficient for partial desalination such as ED and MCDI are increasingly competitive with traditional RO processes. Development of cost-effective ion exchange membranes with high chemical and mechanical stability can further improve the economy of desalination with electro-membrane processes and advance their future applications.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Microstructure and Tensile Property of Ti-6Al-6V-2Sn Alloy
Authors: Wang Qirui , Lei Xiaofei , Hu Ming , Xu Xin , Yang Rui , Dong Limin
Published: March 2021

The microstructure and tensile properties of Ti-6Al-6V-2Sn alloy heat-treated at different solution and aging temperatures has been systematically investigated. Specimens were solution-treated at 970 °C (above the β transus) and 920 °C (below the β transus), respectively, followed by water quenching. When the alloy is quenched from 970 °C, α’ (hcp) and α˝ (orthorhombic) martensite phases co-exist in the microstructure. When it is quenched from 920 °C, α´ martensite phase does not form, while equiaxial primary α (αp) phase and α˝ are found in the microstructure. The results also show that the strength of the alloy increases but the ductility deteriorates as the solution temperature becomes higher when the aging treatment is unchanged. This is because the volume fraction of equiaxial αp phase is lower but the volume fraction of the acicular secondary α (αs) phase is higher for higher solution temperature. When the alloy is aged at different temperatures after the solution treatment at 900 °C, the strength of the alloy decreases with the increase of aging temperature and the ductility shows the opposite trend as the size of the acicular αs becomes longer and its volume fraction is lower at higher aging temperature.
Creep Rate, Friction, and Wear of Two Heat-Affected Zone Regions of 9–12 wt.% Cr Steels
Authors: Velkavrh Igor , Voyer Joël , Kafexhiu Fevzi , Podgornik Bojan
Published: March 2021

Coarsening of precipitates can have a profound effect on the mechanical properties of martensitic 9–12 wt.% Cr steels, which are typically used in critical parts of fossil-fuel power plants such as turbines, headers, and main steam pipes. In the present study, changes in precipitates’ size and distribution in the simulated heat-affected zone of two different 9–12 wt.% Cr steels (X20 and P91) after different aging conditions were analyzed and correlated with their creep, friction, and wear behaviors. It was shown that prior to aging, the morphology of the steel matrix (prior austenite grain size and microstructure homogeneity) governed the creep rate and the tribological performance of both steels, while after aging their response was additionally determined by the combination of the number and the size of precipitates. For the selected samples (prepared under identical conditions), number of precipitates was found to be within a narrower range for the X20 steel as compared to the P91 steel. For both steels, aging for a shorter time at the higher temperature yielded significantly higher stationary creep rate values as compared to aging for longer time at the lower temperature. The increase was more pronounced in the P91 than in the X20 steel. Both prior to and after aging, the P91 steel typically provided slightly higher creep resistance than the X20 steel, while the latter provided slightly better tribological performance. Furthermore, as a function of the increasing number of precipitates, static coefficient of friction in air atmosphere was approximately linearly decreasing, while the wear rate initially decreased.
Deletion of Kvβ2 (AKR6) Attenuates Isoproterenol Induced Cardiac Injury with Links to Solute Carrier Transporter SLC41a3 and Circadian Clock Genes
Authors: Tur Jared , Chapalamadagu Kalyan C. , Manickam Ravikumar , Cheng Feng , Tipparaju Srinivas M.
Published: March 2021

Kvβ subunits belong to the aldo-keto reductase superfamily, which plays a significant role in ion channel regulation and modulates the physiological responses. However, the role of Kvβ2 in cardiac pathophysiology was not studied, and therefore, in the present study, we hypothesized that Kvβ2 plays a significant role in cardiovascular pathophysiology by modulating the cardiac excitability and gene responses. We utilized an isoproterenol-infused mouse model to investigate the role of Kvβ2 and the cardiac function, biochemical changes, and molecular responses. The deletion of Kvβ2 attenuated the QTc (corrected QT interval) prolongation at the electrocardiographic (ECG) level after a 14-day isoproterenol infusion, whereas the QTc was significantly prolonged in the littermate wildtype group. Monophasic action potentials verified the ECG changes, suggesting that cardiac changes and responses due to isoproterenol infusion are mediated similarly at both the in vivo and ex vivo levels. Moreover, the echocardiographic function showed no further decrease in the ejection fraction in the isoproterenol-stimulated Kvβ2 knockout (KO) group, whereas the wildtype mice showed significantly decreased function. These experiments revealed that Kvβ2 plays a significant role in cardiovascular pathophysiology. Furthermore, the present study revealed SLC41a3, a major solute carrier transporter affected with a significantly decreased expression in KO vs. wildtype hearts. The electrical function showed that the decreased expression of SLC41a3 in Kvβ2 KO hearts led to decreased Mg2+ responses, whereas, in the wildtype hearts, Mg2+ caused action potential duration (APD) shortening. Based on the in vivo, ex vivo, and molecular evaluations, we identified that the deletion of Kvβ2 altered the cardiac pathophysiology mediated by SLC41a3 and altered the NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide)-dependent gene responses.
NMR Methods for Determining Lipid Turnover via Stable Isotope Resolved Metabolomics
Authors: Lin Penghui , Dai Li , Crooks Daniel R. , Neckers Leonard M. , Higashi Richard M. , Fan Teresa W-M. , Lane Andrew N.
Published: March 2021

Lipids comprise diverse classes of compounds that are important for the structure and properties of membranes, as high-energy fuel sources and as signaling molecules. Therefore, the turnover rates of these varied classes of lipids are fundamental to cellular function. However, their enormous chemical diversity and dynamic range in cells makes detailed analysis very complex. Furthermore, although stable isotope tracers enable the determination of synthesis and degradation of complex lipids, the numbers of distinguishable molecules increase enormously, which exacerbates the problem. Although LC-MS-MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry) is the standard for lipidomics, NMR can add value in global lipid analysis and isotopomer distributions of intact lipids. Here, we describe new developments in NMR analysis for assessing global lipid content and isotopic enrichment of mixtures of complex lipids for two cell lines (PC3 and UMUC3) using both 13C6 glucose and 13C5 glutamine tracers.
Frequency and Diversity of Hybrid Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Nascimento Júllia A. S. , Santos Fernanda F. , Valiatti Tiago B. , Santos-Neto José F. , M. Santos Ana Carolina , Cayô Rodrigo , Gales Ana C. , A. T. Gomes Tânia
Published: March 2021

(1) Background: Hybrid uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) strains carry virulence markers of the diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC) pathotypes, which may increase their virulence potential. This study analyzed the frequency and virulence potential of hybrid strains among 452 UPEC strains. (2) Methods: Strains were tested for the DEC virulence diagnostic genes’ presence by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Those carrying at least one gene were classified as hybrid and further tested for 10 UPEC and extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) virulence genes and phylogenetic classification. Also, their ability to produce hemolysis, adhere to HeLa and renal HEK 293T cells, form a biofilm, and antimicrobial susceptibility were evaluated. (3) Results: Nine (2%) hybrid strains were detected; seven of them carried aggR and two, eae, and were classified as UPEC/EAEC (enteroaggregative E. coli) and UPEC/aEPEC (atypical enteropathogenic E. coli), respectively. They belonged to phylogroups A (five strains), B1 (three), and D (one), and adhered to both cell lineages tested. Only the UPEC/EAEC strains were hemolytic (five strains) and produced biofilm. One UPEC/aEPEC strain was resistant to third-generation cephalosporins and carried blaCTX-M-15. (4) Conclusions: Our findings contribute to understanding the occurrence and pathogenicity of hybrid UPEC strains, which may cause more severe infections.
Microbial Dynamics in Wine Production
Authors: Tofalo Rosanna
Published: March 2021

The Special Issue “Microbial dynamics in wine production” collects nine original research articles and a review concerning wine production, a complex process where microbes have a decisive role [...]
Contribution of the Locus of Heat Resistance to Growth and Survival of Escherichia coli at Alkaline pH and at Alkaline pH in the Presence of Chlorine
Authors: Zhu Tongbo , Wang Zhiying , McMullen Lynn M. , Raivio Tracy , Simpson David J. , Gänzle Michael G.
Published: March 2021

The locus of heat resistance (LHR) confers resistance to extreme heat, chlorine and oxidative stress in Escherichia coli. This study aimed to determine the function of the LHR in maintaining bacterial cell envelope homeostasis, the regulation of the genes comprising the LHR and the contribution of the LHR to alkaline pH response. The presence of the LHR did not affect the activity of the Cpx two-component regulatory system in E. coli, which was measured to quantify cell envelope stress. The LHR did not alter E. coli MG1655 growth rate in the range of pH 6.9 to 9.2. However, RT-qPCR results indicated that the expression of the LHR was elevated at pH 8.0 when CpxR was absent. The LHR did not improve survival of E. coli MG1655 at extreme alkaline pH (pH = 11.0 to 11.2) but improved survival at pH 11.0 in the presence of chlorine. Therefore, we conclude that the LHR confers resistance to extreme alkaline pH in the presence of oxidizing agents. Resistance to alkaline pH is regulated by an endogenous mechanism, including the Cpx envelope stress response, whereas the LHR confers resistance to extreme alkaline pH only in the presence of additional stress such as chlorine.
Effectors Targeting the Unfolded Protein Response during Intracellular Bacterial Infection
Authors: Alshareef Manal H. , Hartland Elizabeth L. , McCaffrey Kathleen
Published: March 2021

The unfolded protein response (UPR) is a homeostatic response to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress within eukaryotic cells. The UPR initiates transcriptional and post-transcriptional programs to resolve ER stress; or, if ER stress is severe or prolonged, initiates apoptosis. ER stress is a common feature of bacterial infection although the role of the UPR in host defense is only beginning to be understood. While the UPR is important for host defense against pore-forming toxins produced by some bacteria, other bacterial effector proteins hijack the UPR through the activity of translocated effector proteins that facilitate intracellular survival and proliferation. UPR-mediated apoptosis can limit bacterial replication but also often contributes to tissue damage and disease. Here, we discuss the dual nature of the UPR during infection and the implications of UPR activation or inhibition for inflammation and immunity as illustrated by different bacterial pathogens.
Geochronology and Isotope Geochemistry of the Yingfang Pb-Zn-Ag Deposit: Implications for Large-Scale Metallogeny along the Northern Flank of the North China Craton
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Li Lin , Li Shengrong , Santosh M. , Li Yujie
Published: March 2021

The northern flank of the North China Craton (NCC) hosts a linear zone of gold, molybdenum, silver, lead, and zinc polymetallic ore deposits. Among these, the Yingfang Pb-Zn-Ag deposit is located in the central part of the Yanshan–Liaoxi metallogenic belt (YLMB) which extends for approximately 1000 km and forms part of the major mineralized zone. In this study, we characterize the mineralization and trace the ore genesis based on new sulfur and lead isotopic geochemistry and evaluate the timing of mineralization from Rb-Sr isotope dating of sulfides. The pyrite δ34S values range from +3.2‰ to +5.8‰ with a mean at +4.07‰, close to the values of mantle and meteorite sulfur. The 206Pb/204Pb values range from 16.833 to 18.956, 207Pb/204Pb from 15.374 to 15.522, and 208Pb/204Pb from 37.448 to 37.928. Five samples of sulfide, from the Yingfang deposit, yield a Rb-Sr isochron age of 135.7 ± 4.1 Ma. This age is close to the age of the adjacent Niujuan Ag-Au deposit and the associated Er’daogou granite, suggesting a close relationship between magmatism and metallogeny in this region. The S and Pb isotopes of the regional silver polymetallic deposits show similar sources of ore-forming materials. According to a compilation of the available age data on the Mesozoic ore deposits in the northern flank of the NCC, we divide the mineralization into the following four periods: 240–205 Ma, 190–160 Ma, 155–135 Ma, and 135–100 Ma. Mesozoic magmatism and mineralization in the Yingfang deposit mainly took place at 245 Ma and 145–135 Ma. We correlate the Pb-Zn-Ag mineralization to metallogeny associated with large-scale inhomogeneous lithosphere thinning beneath the NCC.
Mineralogy of Dolomite Carbonatites of Sevathur Complex, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Rampilova Maria , Doroshkevich Anna , Viladkar Shrinivas , Zubakova Elizaveta
Published: March 2021

The main mass of the Sevathur carbonatite complex (Tamil Nadu, India) consists of dolomite carbonatite with a small number of ankerite carbonatite dikes. Calcite carbonatite occurs in a very minor amount as thin veins within the dolomite carbonatite. The age (207Pb/204Pb) of the Sevathur carbonatites is 801 ± 11 Ma, they are emplaced within the Precambrian granulite terrains along NE–SW trending fault systems. Minor minerals in dolomite carbonatite are fluorapatite, phlogopite (with a kinoshitalite component), amphibole and magnetite. Pyrochlore (rich in UO2), monazite-Ce, and barite are accessory minerals. Dolomite carbonatite at the Sevathur complex contains norsethite, calcioburbankite, and benstonite as inclusions in primary calcite and are interpreted as primary minerals. They are indicative of Na, Sr, Mg, Ba, and LREE enrichment in their parental carbonatitic magma. Norsethite, calcioburbankite, and benstonite have not been previously known at Sevathur. The hydrothermal processes at the Sevathur carbonatites lead to alteration of pyrochlore into hydropyrochlore, and Ba-enrichment. Also, it leads to formation of monazite-(Ce) and barite-II.
Structures and Bioactivities of Steroidal Saponins Isolated from the Genera Dracaena and Sansevieria
Authors: Thu Zaw Min , Oo Sann Myint , Nwe Thinn Myat , Aung Hnin Thanda , Armijos Chabaco , Hussain Faiq H. S. , Vidari Giovanni
Published: March 2021

The species Dracaena and Sansevieria, that are well-known for different uses in traditional medicines and as indoor ornamental plants with air purifying property, are rich sources of bioactive secondary metabolites. In fact, a wide variety of phytochemical constituents have been isolated so far from about seventeen species. This paper has reviewed the literature of about 180 steroidal saponins, isolated from Dracaena and Sansevieria species, as a basis for further studies. Saponins are among the most characteristic metabolites isolated from the two genera. They show a great variety in structural motifs and a wide range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-proliferative effects and, in most case, remarkable cytotoxic properties.
Metabolic N-Dealkylation and N-Oxidation as Elucidators of the Role of Alkylamino Moieties in Drugs Acting at Various Receptors
Authors: EH-Haj Babiker M.
Published: March 2021

Metabolic reactions that occur at alkylamino moieties may provide insight into the roles of these moieties when they are parts of drug molecules that act at different receptors. N-dealkylation of N,N-dialkylamino moieties has been associated with retaining, attenuation or loss of pharmacologic activities of metabolites compared to their parent drugs. Further, N-dealkylation has resulted in clinically used drugs, activation of prodrugs, change of receptor selectivity, and providing potential for developing fully-fledged drugs. While both secondary and tertiary alkylamino moieties (open chain aliphatic or heterocyclic) are metabolized by CYP450 isozymes oxidative N-dealkylation, only tertiary alkylamino moieties are subject to metabolic N-oxidation by Flavin-containing monooxygenase (FMO) to give N-oxide products. In this review, two aspects will be examined after surveying the metabolism of representative alkylamino-moieties-containing drugs that act at various receptors (i) the pharmacologic activities and relevant physicochemical properties (basicity and polarity) of the metabolites with respect to their parent drugs and (ii) the role of alkylamino moieties on the molecular docking of drugs in receptors. Such information is illuminative in structure-based drug design considering that fully-fledged metabolite drugs and metabolite prodrugs have been, respectively, developed from N-desalkyl and N-oxide metabolites.
Smart, Naturally-Derived Macromolecules for Controlled Drug Release
Authors: Zaborniak Izabela , Macior Angelika , Chmielarz Paweł
Published: March 2021

A series of troxerutin-based macromolecules with ten poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) or poly(2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) homopolymer side chains were synthesized by a supplemental activator and reducing agent atom transfer radical polymerization (SARA ATRP) approach. The prepared precisely-defined structures with low dispersity (Mw/Mn < 1.09 for PAA-based, and Mw/Mn < 1.71 for PDMAEMA-based macromolecules) exhibited pH-responsive behavior depending on the length of the polymer grafts. The properties of the received polyelectrolytes were investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurement to determine the hydrodynamic diameter and zeta potential upon pH changes. Additionally, PDMAEMA-based polymers showed thermoresponsive properties and exhibited phase transfer at a lower critical solution temperature (LCST). Thanks to polyelectrolyte characteristics, the prepared polymers were investigated as smart materials for controlled release of quercetin. The influence of the length of the polymer grafts for the quercetin release profile was examined by UV–VIS spectroscopy. The results suggest the strong correlation between the length of the polymer chains and the efficiency of active substance release, thus, the adjustment of the composition of the macromolecules characterized by branched architecture can precisely control the properties of smart delivery systems.
Solar-Powered Photodegradation of Pollutant Dyes Using Silver-Embedded Porous TiO2 Nanofibers
Authors: Heng Jerry Zhi Xiong , Tang Karen Yuanting , Regulacio Michelle D. , Lin Ming , Loh Xian Jun , Li Zibiao , Ye Enyi
Published: March 2021

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanomaterials have been ubiquitously investigated as a photocatalyst for organic contaminant treatment in wastewater due to their exemplary semiconductor properties. However, their huge band gap remains a barrier for visible light absorption, limiting their utility in practical applications. The incorporation of noble metals in the TiO2 scaffold would help mitigate the problem via plasmonic resonance enhancements. Silver (Ag) is the chosen noble metal as it is relatively cheap and has great plasmonic effects. In this study, the use of electrospun Ag-embedded TiO2 nanofibers as a photocatalyst is shown to be effective in decomposing rhodamine B and methyl orange dyes under a solar simulator in 3 h, which is more efficacious as opposed to pristine TiO2 nanofibers. This showcases the potential of a simple and economic wastewater treatment system for the removal of organic pollutants.
Morphological and Rheological Properties of PLA, PBAT, and PLA/PBAT Blend Nanocomposites Containing CNCs
Authors: Mohammadi Mojtaba , Heuzey Marie-Claude , Carreau Pierre J. , Taguet Aurélie
Published: March 2021

Morphological and rheological properties of poly(lactic acid), PLA (semicrystalline and amorphous), and poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate), PBAT, and their blends (75 wt%/25 wt%; PLA/PBAT) were investigated in the presence of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) prepared from solution casting followed by melt mixing. For the solution casting step, the CNCs were either incorporated into the matrix, the dispersed phase, or both. The dispersion and distribution of the CNCs in the neat polymers and localization in their blends were analyzed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The highly dispersed CNCs in the solution cast nanocomposites were agglomerated after melt mixing. In the blends with 1 wt% CNCs, the nanoparticles were mostly localized on the surface of the PBAT droplets irrespective of their initial localization. The rheological behavior of the single polymer matrix nanocomposites and their blends was determined in dynamic and transient shear flow in the molten state. Upon melt mixing the complex viscosity and storage modulus of the solution cast nanocomposites decreased markedly due to re-agglomeration of the CNCs. Under shearing at 0.1 s−1, a significant droplet coalescence was observed in the neat blends, but was prevented by the presence of the CNCs at the interface in the blend nanocomposites.
Nanomaterials Synthesis through Microfluidic Methods: An Updated Overview
Authors: Niculescu Adelina-Gabriela , Chircov Cristina , Bîrcă Alexandra Cătălina , Grumezescu Alexandru Mihai
Published: March 2021

Microfluidic devices emerged due to an interdisciplinary “collision” between chemistry, physics, biology, fluid dynamics, microelectronics, and material science. Such devices can act as reaction vessels for many chemical and biological processes, reducing the occupied space, equipment costs, and reaction times while enhancing the quality of the synthesized products. Due to this series of advantages compared to classical synthesis methods, microfluidic technology managed to gather considerable scientific interest towards nanomaterials production. Thus, a new era of possibilities regarding the design and development of numerous applications within the pharmaceutical and medical fields has emerged. In this context, the present review provides a thorough comparison between conventional methods and microfluidic approaches for nanomaterials synthesis, presenting the most recent research advancements within the field.
Obtaining and Properties of a Photocatalytic Composite Material of the “SiO2–TiO2” System Based on Various Types of Silica Raw Materials
Authors: Strokova Valeria , Gubareva Ekaterina , Ogurtsova Yulia , Fediuk Roman , Zhao Piqi , Vatin Nikolai , Vasilev Yuriy
Published: March 2021

Compositions and technology for obtaining a photocatalytic composite material (PCM) by deposition of titanium dioxide particles synthesized by the sol–gel method on a silica support of various types (microsilica, gaize and diatomite) have been developed. The properties (chemical and mineral composition, dispersion, specific surface area, porosity, ζ-potential, acid–base properties, and microstructure) of microsilica, gaize and diatomite were studied to assess the effectiveness of using a photocatalytic agent as a carrier. In terms of specific viscosity (ηsp = 45), the concentration of the precursor (tetrabutoxytitanium—TBT) is set at 22 vol. % in a solvent (ethanol), at which it is possible to obtain the maximum amount of dissolved film oligomer without the formation of an aggregate-like precipitate. Modification of the reaction mixture (precursor: ethanol = 1:3) by replacing part of the solvent with a Span-60 surfactant/TBT = 1–1.1 made it possible to obtain polydisperse titanium dioxide particles with peak sizes of 43 nm and 690 nm according to laser granulometry data. Taking into account the interaction of titanium complexes with the surface of a silica support, a phenomenological model of the processes of structure formation of a photocatalytic composite material is proposed. By the value of the decomposition of rhodamine B, the photocatalytic activity of the developed composite materials was determined: PCM based on diatomite—86%; PCM based on microsilica—85%; PCM based on gaize—57%.
The Relationship between Resistance Exercise Performance and Ventilatory Efficiency after Beetroot Juice Intake in Well-Trained Athletes
Authors: Serra-Payá Noemí , Garnacho-Castaño Manuel Vicente , Sánchez-Nuño Sergio , Albesa-Albiol Lluís , Girabent-Farrés Montserrat , Moizé Arcone Luciana , Fernández Alba Pardo , García-Fresneda Adrián , Castizo-Olier Jorge , Viñals Xavier , Molina-Raya Lorena , Gomis Bataller Manuel
Published: March 2021

The assessment of ventilatory efficiency is critical to understanding the matching of ventilation (VE) and perfusion in the lungs during exercise. This study aimed to establish a causal physiological relationship between ventilatory efficiency and resistance exercise performance after beetroot juice (BJ) intake. Eleven well-trained males performed a resistance exercise test after drinking 140 mL of BJ (~12.8 mmol NO3−) or a placebo (PL). Ventilatory efficiency was assessed by the VE•VCO2−1 slope, the oxygen uptake efficiency slope and the partial pressure of end-tidal carbon dioxide (PetCO2). The two experimental conditions were controlled using a randomized, double-blind crossover design. The resistance exercise test involved repeating the same routine twice, which consisted of wall ball shots plus a full squat (FS) with a 3 min rest or without a rest between the two exercises. A higher weight lifted was detected in the FS exercise after BJ intake compared with the PL during the first routine (p = 0.004). BJ improved the VE•VCO2−1 slope and the PetCO2 during the FS exercise in the first routine and at rest (p < 0.05). BJ intake improved the VE•VCO2−1 slope and the PetCO2 coinciding with the resistance exercise performance. The ergogenic effect of BJ could be induced under aerobic conditions at rest.
The Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Thromboxane, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Homocysteine, and Vitamin D in Depressive Children and Adolescents: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Paduchová Zuzana , Katrenčíková Barbora , Vaváková Magdaléna , Laubertová Lucia , Nagyová Zuzana , Garaiova Iveta , Ďuračková Zdenka , Trebatická Jana
Published: March 2021

In the DEPOXIN project, we have found that a high ratio of omega-6/omega-3 fatty acids (FA) is associated with worsening of depressive symptoms in children and adolescents with depressive disorder (DD) and that the 12-week omega-3 FA supplementation modulates DD symptoms. Here we present our results of the secondary outcomes: the levels of thromboxane (TXB), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), homocysteine (HCy) and vitamin D. Fifty-eight patients were randomized into two arms. One group received a fish oil emulsion enriched with omega-3 FA, and the other received a sunflower oil emulsion containing omega-6 FA, for 12 weeks. Depressive symptoms were evaluated, using the Child’s Depressive Inventory (CDI). The patients with DD had elevated TXB levels and decreased vitamin D levels, as compared to healthy controls. Both CDI and omega-6/omega-3 ratio correlated positively with TXB and negatively with BDNF at baseline. Compared to the omega-6 FA group, the supplementation with omega-3 FA for 12 weeks significantly reduced plasma TXB (p = 0.024) and increased BDNF (p = 0.011) levels. No changes in HCy and vitamin D were observed. Our results demonstrate the possible role of TXB and BDNF in the pathophysiology of DD and the benefits of omega-3 FA supplementation. The study was registered with the ISRCTN registry (ISRCTN81655012).
Effects of Two Workload-Matched High-Intensity Interval Training Protocols on Regional Body Composition and Fat Oxidation in Obese Men
Authors: Tsirigkakis Spyridon , Mastorakos George , Koutedakis Yiannis , Mougios Vassilis , Nevill Alan M. , Pafili Zoe , Bogdanis Gregory C.
Published: March 2021

The effects of two high-intensity interval training (HIIT) protocols on regional body composition and fat oxidation in men with obesity were compared using a parallel randomized design. Sixteen inactive males (age, 38.9 ± 7.3 years; body fat, 31.8 ± 3.9%; peak oxygen uptake, VO2peak, 30.9 ± 4.1 mL/kg/min; all mean ± SD) were randomly assigned to either HIIT10 (48 × 10 s bouts at 100% of peak power [Wpeak] with 15 s of recovery) or HIIT60 group (8 × 60 s bouts at 100% Wpeak with 90 s of recovery), and subsequently completed eight weeks of training, while maintaining the same diet. Analyses of variance (ANOVA) showed only a main effect of time (p < 0.01) and no group or interaction effects (p > 0.05) in the examined parameters. Total and trunk fat mass decreased by 1.81 kg (90%CI: −2.63 to −0.99 kg; p = 0.002) and 1.45 kg (90%CI: −1.95 to −0.94 kg; p < 0.001), respectively, while leg lean mass increased by 0.86 kg (90%CI: 0.63 to 1.08 kg; p < 0.001), following both HIIT protocols. HIIT increased peak fat oxidation (PFO) (from 0.20 ± 0.05 to 0.33 ± 0.08 g/min, p = 0.001), as well as fat oxidation over a wide range of submaximal exercise intensities, and shifted PFO to higher intensity (from 33.6 ± 4.6 to 37.6 ± 6.7% VO2peak, p = 0.039). HIIT, irrespective of protocol, improved VO2peak by 20.0 ± 7.2% (p < 0.001), while blood lactate at various submaximal intensities decreased by 20.6% (p = 0.001). In conclusion, both HIIT protocols were equally effective in improving regional body composition and fat oxidation during exercise in obese men.
Diet Quality, Nutritional Adequacy, and Sociodemographic Characteristics of Mobile Food Pantry Users in Northeastern Connecticut
Authors: Marmash Dalia , Ha Kyungho , Sakaki Junichi R. , Gorski Isabella , Rule Brazil , Foster Jaime , Puglisi Michael , Chun Ock K.
Published: March 2021

Poor diet quality among low-income populations is a major contributing factor to their poor health and wellbeing, and thus is a focus of many government aid programs. Mobile food pantries are an increasingly popular method of emergency food assistance, targeting the communities most affected by food insecurity; however, little is known about the dietary characteristics of mobile food pantry users. This study aims to characterize the diet quality and nutrient adequacy level and examine its association with sociodemographic characteristics among mobile food pantry users in Windham County, Connecticut. Surveys to assess food insecurity, diet composition, and sociodemographic characteristics were administered to 83 adult food pantry users. Participants (n = 40) completed a three-day dietary record for analysis of diet quality, and were found to have inadequate intakes of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and dairy, as well as some related micronutrients. At least 30% of participants had intakes below the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) for vitamins A, C, E, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and folate. Intakes of added sugar, sugar sweetened beverages, and saturated fat were also above recommendations according to the United States Dietary Guidelines. Certain sociodemographic factors affected diet quality among this sample. For example, being male was associated with increased sugar-sweetened beverage and added sugar intake. This characterization of mobile pantry users will serve as a reference for developing nutrition education and determining the effectiveness of future interventions.
Vitamin D Receptor and Vitamin D Binding Protein Gene Polymorphisms Are Associated with Renal Allograft Outcome
Authors: Zununi Vahed Sepideh , Ahmadian Elham , Foroughi Peyman , Mostafavi Soroush , Madry Henning , Ardalan Mohammadreza , Cucchiarini Magali
Published: March 2021

Vitamin D deficiency has adverse effects on renal allograft outcomes, and polymorphisms of genes encoding vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP) and vitamin D receptor (VDR) are defined to play a role in these conditions. The goal of the current investigation was to evaluate the connection between those polymorphisms with acute rejection, viral infection history, and recipients’ vitamin D status. In this study, 115 kidney transplant recipients and 100 healthy individuals were included. VDR polymorphisms including FokI (rs2228570), Apal (rs7975232), BsmI (rs1544410), as well as VDBP (rs7040) polymorphisms were studied using high resolution melting (PCR-HRM) analysis among the studied groups. The frequency of G allele in Apal rs7975232 polymorphism in the kidney transplant recipients was 0.63 times lower than healthy individuals (p = 0.026). Further, the G allele frequency in VDBP rs7040 polymorphism was significantly lower in patients with allograft rejection (p = 0.002). Considering the incidence of viral infection, significant differences were identified between the frequencies of VDR FokI (OR = 2.035; 95% CI 1.06–2.89, p = 0.030) and VDBP rs7040 (OR = 0.40; 95% CI 0.24–0.67, p < 0.001) T alleles in the studied groups. Moreover, the VDBP rs7040 GG genotype distribution was low in the recipients with a history of viral infection (p = 0.004). VDR (FokI) and VDBP (rs7040) alleles and their genotype distribution are significantly associated with allograft outcomes including allograft rejection and viral infection in the studied population.
Lacticaseibacillus paracasei PS23 Effectively Modulates Gut Microbiota Composition and Improves Gastrointestinal Function in Aged SAMP8 Mice
Authors: Chen Li-Han , Wang Ming-Fu , Chang Chun-Chao , Huang Shih-Yi , Pan Chun-Hsu , Yeh Yao-Tsung , Huang Cheng-Hsieh , Chan Ching-Hung , Huang Hui-Yu
Published: March 2021

Probiotics are reported to improve gastrointestinal (GI) function via regulating gut microbiota (GM). However, exactly how probiotics influence GM and GI function in elders is poorly characterized. Therefore, in this study, we assessed the effect of the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei PS23 (LPPS23) on the GM and GI function of aged mice. There were four groups of senescence-accelerated mouse prone-8 (SAMP8) mice (n = 4): a non-treated control group, a saline control group, a low dose LPPS23 group (1 × 108 colony-forming unit (CFU)/mouse/day), and a high dose LPPS23 group (1 × 109 CFU/mouse/day). Non-treated mice were euthanized at 16 weeks old, and others were euthanized at 28 weeks old. The next-generation sequencing results revealed that LPPS23 enriched Lactobacillus and Candidatus_Saccharimonas, while the abundance of Lachnospiraceae_UCG_001 decreased in aged mice given LPPS23. The abundance of Lactobacillus negatively correlated with the abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae. Moreover, LPPS23 improved the GI function of aged mice due to the longer intestine length, lower intestinal permeability, and higher phagocytosis in LPPS23-treated mice. The ELISA results showed that LPPS23 attenuated the alterations of pro-inflammatory factors and immunoglobulins. The abundance of LPPS23-enriched Lactobacillus was positively correlated with healthy GI function, while Lachnospiraceae_UCG_001, which was repressed by LPPS23, was negatively correlated with a healthy GI function in the aged mice according to Spearman’s correlation analysis. Taken together, LPPS23 can effectively modulate GM composition and improve GI function in aged SAMP8 mice.
Lifestyle Changes and Body Mass Index during COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown: An Italian Online-Survey
Authors: Maffoni Silvia , Brazzo Silvia , De Giuseppe Rachele , Biino Ginevra , Vietti Ilaria , Pallavicini Cristina , Cena Hellas
Published: March 2021

Background. COVID-19 pandemic has imposed a period of contingency measures, including total or partial lockdowns all over the world leading to several changes in lifestyle/eating behaviours. This retrospective cohort study aimed at investigating Italian adult population lifestyle changes during COVID-19 pandemic “Phase 1” lockdown (8 March–4 May 2020) and discriminate between positive and negative changes and BMI (body mass index) variations (ΔBMI). Methods. A multiple-choice web-form survey was used to collect retrospective data regarding lifestyle/eating behaviours during “Phase 1” in the Italian adult population. According to changes in lifestyle/eating behaviours, the sample was divided into three classes of changes: “negative change”, “no change”, “positive change”. For each class, correlations with ΔBMI were investigated. Results. Data were collected from 1304 subjects (973F/331M). Mean ΔBMI differed significantly (p < 0.001) between classes, and was significantly related to water intake, alcohol consumption, physical activity, frequency of “craving or snacking between meals”, dessert/sweets consumption at lunch. Conclusions. During “Phase 1”, many people faced several negative changes in lifestyle/eating behaviours with potential negative impact on health. These findings highlight that pandemic exacerbates nutritional issues and most efforts need to be done to provide nutrition counselling and public health services to support general population needs.
Socioeconomic Characteristics and Trends in the Consumption of Ultra-Processed Foods in Korea from 2010 to 2018
Authors: Shim Jee-Seon , Shim Sun-Young , Cha Hee-Jeung , Kim Jinhee , Kim Hyeon Chang
Published: March 2021

There is growing evidence for a global transition to a more highly processed diet. While the dietary share of ultra-processed foods depends on a country’s economic status, food choice and consumption are also influenced by the socioeconomic situation of individuals. This study investigated whether ultra-processed food consumption differed across socioeconomic subgroups and over time (2010–2018) in Korea. Cross-sectional data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010–2018 were analyzed. Food and beverages reported in a one-day 24 h recall were classified according to the NOVA food classification criteria. The dietary energy contribution of ultra-processed foods was high among men and urban residents, and increased with education and income level; additionally, it reached its peak in adolescents and thereafter decreased with increasing age. After adjusting the socioeconomic variables, such associations remained significant, except for income level. The overall contribution of ultra-processed foods increased from 23.1% (2010–2012) to 26.1% (2016–2018), and the same trend over time was observed in all age groups and socioeconomic strata. In the Korean population, ultra-processed food consumption differed by individual socioeconomic characteristics, but gradually increased over time, and this trend was consistently found in all socioeconomic subgroups. Future strategies to promote healthy food choices are needed for the Korean population.
Comprehensive and Rapid Quality Evaluation Method for the Ayurvedic Medicine Divya-Swasari-Vati Using Two Analytical Techniques: UPLC/QToF MS and HPLC–DAD
Authors: Balkrishna Acharya , Verma Sudeep , Sharma Priyanka , Tomer Meenu , Srivastava Jyotish , Varshney Anurag
Published: March 2021

Divya-Swasari-Vati (DSV) is a calcium-containing herbal medicine formulated for the symptomatic control of respiratory illnesses observed in the current COVID-19 pandemic. DSV is an Ayurvedic medicine used for the treatment of chronic cough and inflammation. The formulation has shown its pharmacological effects against SARS-CoV-2 induced inflammation in the humanized zebrafish model. The present inventive research aimed to establish comprehensive quality parameters of the DSV formulation using validated chromatographic analytical tools. Exhaustive identification of signature marker compounds present in the plant ingredients was carried out using ultra performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/QToF MS). This was followed by simultaneous estimation of selected marker components using rapid and reliable high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. Eleven marker components, namely gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, methyl gallate, ellagic acid, coumarin, cinnamic acid, glycyrrhizin, eugenol, 6-gingerol, piperine and glabridin, were selected out of seventy-four identified makers for the quantitative analysis in DSV formulation. Validation of the HPLC method was evaluated by its linearity, precision, and accuracy tests as per the International Council of Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. Calibration curves for the eleven marker compounds showed good linear regression (r2 > 0.999). The relative standard deviation (RSD) value of intraday and interday precision tests were within the prescribed limits. The accuracy test results ranged from 92.75% to 100.13%. Thus, the present inclusive approach is first of its kind employing multi-chromatographic platforms for identification and quantification of the marker components in DSV, which could be applied for routine standardization of DSV and other related formulations.
Wound Healing Promotion by Hyaluronic Acid: Effect of Molecular Weight on Gene Expression and In Vivo Wound Closure
Authors: Kawano Yayoi , Patrulea Viorica , Sublet Emmanuelle , Borchard Gerrit , Iyoda Takuya , Kageyama Rihoko , Morita Asa , Seino Satoshi , Yoshida Hideto , Jordan Olivier , Hanawa Takehisa
Published: March 2021

Hyaluronic acid (HA) has been known to play an important role in wound healing process. However, the effect of molecular weight (MW) of exogenously administered HA on the wound healing process has not been fully understood. In this study, we investigated HA with different MWs on wound healing process using human epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts. Cell proliferation and migration ability were assessed by water soluble tetrazolium (WST) assay and wound scratch assay. We examined the effect of HA addition in a full-thickness wound model in mice and the gene expression related to wound healing. Proliferation and migration of HaCaT cells increased with the increase of MW and concentration of HA. Interleukin (IL-1β), IL-8 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as well as matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and MMP-13 were significantly upregulated by high molecular weight (HMW) HA in keratinocytes. Together with VEGF upregulation and the observed promotion of HaCaT migration, HA with the MW of 2290 kDa may hold potential to improve re-epithelialization, a critical obstacle to heal chronic wounds.