bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Durability and Corrosion Properties of Waterborne Coating Systems on Mild Steel Dried under Atmospheric Conditions and by Infrared Radiation
Authors: Stojanović Ivan , Cindrić Ivan , Turkalj Lovro , Kurtela Marin , Rakela-Ristevski Daniela
Published: November 2022

Increasing attention is given to waterborne coatings for corrosion protection due to the lower ecological impact on the environment. It has been found that by using waterborne coatings, the emission of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is reduced by more than 50 g/L. However, they require longer drying time, their anti-corrosion performance is not as good as solvent-borne coatings and they still have not been developed for all corrosion environments. Another way to reduce VOCs is by using infrared (IR) drying technology. With catalytic infrared radiation, it is possible to cure all surfaces at notably reduced costs compared to traditional systems and in total respect for the environment, thanks to significant energy savings and minimal CO2 emissions. The aim of this paper was to evaluate corrosion protective properties of waterborne coatings which were dried with traditional and accelerated drying techniques, i.e., under atmospheric conditions and by using IR technology. Two different coating systems were applied, with and without Zn in the primer. To achieve this goal, the test samples were subjected to electrochemical, corrosion, and physical tests. It was shown that infrared technology does not affect the quality of the coating and it drastically reduces the intercoating interval. A coating system with zinc in the primer showed better overall protection properties after being subjected to impedance and salt spray testing, but generally, solvent-borne coatings still have higher durability than waterborne in extreme marine conditions according to recent research. Microstructure and porosity remained intact and the atomic force microscope confirmed that the flash-off was conducted correctly since there were no pinholes and blisters detected on the coating’s surface. This study can serve as a foundation for further investigations of IC-dried waterborne coatings because there are not many at the moment.
Cross-Sectional Profile Evolution of Cu-Ti Gradient Films on C17200 Cu by Vacuum Thermal Diffusion
Authors: Zhu Yandan , Li Zecheng , Bi Hongchao , Shi Qilong , Han Yujun , Zhang Quanli
Published: November 2022

To improve the wear resistance and fatigue life of Cu alloys, surface modification by combining the magnetron sputtering of Ti film followed by vacuum thermal diffusion is always applied, where the structure and composition of the fabricated film play a determinant role on the mechanical properties. In the present work, the evolution of the layered structure and the element distribution of the formed multi-phases coating on C17200 Cu alloy are investigated by mathematical calculation based on Fick’s law, and the experimental verification by the thermal diffusion of the gradient Cu-Ti film was undertaken under different temperatures and durations. The results show that the layered structure of the fabricated coating is dependent on the Cu-Ti atom concentration, the increasing time and the temperature, where a single or stratified layer is formed due to the generated Cu-Ti intermetallics for the inter-diffusion between the Cu and Ti atoms. The atom distribution by the proposed simulation method based on Fick’s law corresponds to the experimental results, which can be applied to designing the structure of the modification layer.
Magnetocaloric and Giant Magnetoresistance Effects in La-Ba-Mn-Ti-O Epitaxial Thin Films: Influence of Phase Transition and Magnetic Anisotropy
Authors: Oumezzine Marwène , Chirila Cristina Florentina , Pasuk Iuliana , Galca Aurelian Catalin , Leca Aurel , Borca Bogdana , Kuncser Victor
Published: November 2022

Magnetic perovskite films have promising properties for use in energy-efficient spintronic devices and magnetic refrigeration. Here, an epitaxial ferromagnetic La0.67Ba0.33Mn0.95Ti0.05O3 (LBMTO-5) thin film was grown on SrTiO3(001) single crystal substrate by pulsed laser deposition. High-resolution X-ray diffraction proved the high crystallinity of the film with tetragonal symmetry. The magnetic, magnetocaloric and magnetoresistance properties at different directions of the applied magnetic field with respect to the ab plane of the film were investigated. An in-plane uni-axial magnetic anisotropy was evidenced. The LBMTO-5 epilayer exhibits a second-order ferromagnetic-paramagnetic phase transition around 234 K together with a metal–semiconductor transition close to this Curie temperature (TC). The magnetic entropy variation under 5 T induction of a magnetic field applied parallel to the film surface reaches a maximum of 17.27 mJ/cm3 K. The relative cooling power is 1400 mJ/cm3 K (53% of the reference value reported for bulk Gd) for the same applied magnetic field. Giant magnetoresistance of about 82% under 5 T is obtained at a temperature close to TC. Defined as the difference between specific resistivity obtained under 5 T with the current flowing along the magnetic easy axis and the magnetic field oriented transversally to the current, parallel and perpendicular to the sample plane, respectively, the in-plane magneto-resistance anisotropy in 5 T is about 9% near the TC.
Study on Crystallization Process of Li2O–Al2O3–SiO2 Glass-Ceramics Based on In Situ Analysis
Authors: Li Minghan , Xiong Chunrong , Ma Yanping , Jiang Hong
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we used differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), high-temperature X-ray diffraction (HT-XRD), and confocal scanning laser microscopy (CSLM) to investigate the Li2O–Al2O3–SiO2 glass crystallization process. At 943 K, lithium disilicate (Li2Si2O5) phase crystals began to precipitate in the Li2O–Al2O3–SiO2 glass with a crystal size of 50–70 nm. At the temperature of 1009 K, petalite (LiAlSi4O10) crystals began to precipitate in the vitreous phase, forming composite spherical crystals of LiAlSi4O10 and Li2Si2O5 with size in the range of 90–130 nm. Furthermore, the Kissinger method and KAS method of the JMAK model were used to calculate the crystallization activation energy and the Avrami index “n”. It was found that the precipitation mechanism of the two kinds of crystals is whole crystallization; accordingly, the selection of crystallization heat treatment system was guided to determine the nucleation and crystallization temperature.
Analysis of Elastic Properties of Al/PET Isotropic Composite Materials Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Jeon Yu-Jae , Yun Jong-Hwan , Kang Min-Soo
Published: November 2022

This study uses the finite element method and numerical analysis to develop an eco-friendly composite material with shielding capabilities. A preliminary study was performed to predict the mechanical properties of the composite material. Polyethylene terephthalate and aluminum powder (AP) were selected as the matrix and enhancer, respectively. The particles of AP are spherical, with a diameter of 1 μm. Material properties were investigated as the AP volume fraction (VF) increased from 5–70%. The FEM results show that the physical properties for AP VFs improve by up to 40%, but there is no significant change in the elastic modulus, shear modulus, and Poisson’s ratio at an AP VF of 50–70%. However, the numerical analysis models show that the elastic properties for AP VFs improve by up to 70%. The mechanical properties improved as the VF increased, and the FEM predicted values were reliable for VFs up to 40%. However, it was confirmed that 40% is the limit of AP VF in the FEM. In addition, the FEM and numerical analysis predictions showed that the most similar numerical analysis model was the Halpin–Tsai model. The predictions of the Halpin–Tsai model allowed prediction of the maximum VF above the FEM limit. If the correction coefficients of the FEM and numerical analysis models are derived based on the predictions of this study and future experimental results, reliable predictions can be obtained for the physical properties of composite materials.
Experimental Study on Vibratory Compaction Behavior of Tunneling Rock Wastes Used as Unbound Permeable Aggregate Base Materials
Authors: Chen Yuliang , Yu Qunding , Li Wenqi , Xiao Yuanjie , Yang Tao , Li Zhiyong , Zhi Xiao , Deng Pin
Published: November 2022

The tunneling rock wastes (TRW) have been increasingly generated and stockpiled in massive quantities. Recycling them for use as unbound granular pavement base/subbase materials has become an alternative featuring low carbon emission and sustainability. However, the field compaction of such large-size, open-graded materials remains challenging, thus affecting post-construction deformation and long-term stability of such pavement base/subbase layers. This study conducted a series of proctor compaction and new plate vibratory compaction tests to analyze the compaction characteristics of such TRW materials. A total of six different open gradations were designed from particle packing theory. In addition, the effects of gradation and compaction methods on the compaction characteristics, particle breakage of TRW materials, and the optimal combination of vibratory parameters were investigated by normalizing the curves of achieved dry density versus degree of saturation for various combinations of gradations, compaction methods, and compaction energy levels. The post-compaction characteristics of interparticle contact, pore structure, and particle breakage were analyzed from the X-ray computed topography (XCT) scanning results of TRW specimens with different gradations. The findings showed that the gravel-to-sand ratio (G/S) based gradation design method can effectively differentiate distinct types of particle packing structures. There exists an optimal G/S range that could potentially result in the highest maximum dry density, the lowest particle breakage, and the best pore structure of compacted unbound permeable aggregate base (UPAB) materials. The achieved dry density (ρd) of UPAB materials subjected to vibratory plate compaction exhibited three distinct phases with compaction time, from which the optimal excitation frequency range was found to be 25–27 Hz and the optimal combination of vibratory parameters were determined. The normalized compaction curves of degree of saturation versus achieved dry density were found insensitive to changes in material gradations, compaction methods and energy levels, thus allowing for a more accurate evaluation and control of field compaction quality.
The Effect of Different Morphologies of WO3/GO Nanocomposite on Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Esencan Türkaslan Banu , Çelik Aziz Kerim , Dalbeyler Ayça , Fantuzzi Nicholas
Published: November 2022

Tungsten trioxide/graphene oxide (WO3/GO) nanocomposites have been successfully synthesized using in situ and ex situ chemical approaches. Graphite and tungsten carbide (WC) were employed to perform in situ synthesis, and WO3 and GO were employed to perform the ex situ synthesis of WO3/GO nanocomposites. GO, which was required for ex situ synthesis, is synthesized via the modified and improved Hummers method. XRD, SEM/EDS, and FTIR are used for the characterization of the nanocomposite. From the XRD of the WO3/GO nanocomposites, it was observed that WO3 distributed uniformly on graphene oxide sheets or was incorporated between the sheets. The photocatalytic activities of WO3/GO nanocomposites were evaluated by methylene blue (MB) adsorption and visible light photocatalytic degradation activities by UV-vis spectroscopy. The results showed that the efficiency of the photocatalytic activity of the nanocomposite depends on different synthesis methods and the morphology resulting from the changed method. WO3/GO nanocomposites synthesized by both methods exhibited much higher photocatalytic efficiencies than pure WO3, and the best degradation efficiencies for MB was 96.30% for the WO3/GO in situ synthesis nanocomposite.
Fire Extinguishing Performance of Chemically Bonded Struvite Ceramic Powder with High Heat-Absorbing and Flame Retardant Properties
Authors: Liang Zilong , Zhou Zhiji , Sun Yunqi , Huang Yujia , Guo Xinya , Cai Guoshuai , Wang Mingchao , Zhang Haijun
Published: November 2022

Struvite is a chemically bonded ceramic product in the pipeline of a sewage treatment plant. In order to explore the fire extinguishing potential of struvite, a new type of struvite ultrafine dry powder with excellent performance was prepared by a simple process, and its fire extinguishing performance and mechanism were analyzed in depth. Under the same process conditions, the refinement degree (D50 = 5.132 μm) and the specific surface area (BET = 25.72 m2/g) of ultrafine struvite were larger than those of NH4H2PO4 (D50 = 8.961 μm, BET = 13.64 m2/g), making struvite more suitable for fire extinguishing. Besides, the pyrolysis process of struvite was relatively concentrated and absorbed more heat in a short time. Its heat absorption (458.4 J/mg) was higher than that of NH4H2PO4 (156.4 J/mg). Water, ammonia, and PO· were released during the pyrolysis of struvite, which effectively reduced fire temperature, diluted oxygen concentrations and captured free radicals. At the same time, the final products were magnesium orthophosphate and magnesium pyrophosphate, which formed a dense flame-retardant ceramic layer with good thermal insulation and environmental protection functions. In these cases, the fire extinguishing mechanism of struvite was determined to have three stages: the cooling effect, the asphyxiation effect, and the chemical effect. Correspondingly, the fire extinguishing time of struvite was three seconds faster than that of ammonium phosphate under 0.2 MPa based on the local oil basin test.
Quality Evaluation for Reconstructing Chaotic Attractors
Authors: Frunzete Madalin
Published: November 2022

Dynamical systems are used in various applications, and their simulation is related with the type of mathematical operations used in their construction. The quality of the system is evaluated in terms of reconstructing the system, starting from its final point to the beginning (initial conditions). Deciphering a message has to be without loss, and this paper will serve to choose the proper dynamical system to be used in chaos-based cryptography. The characterization of the chaotic attractors is the most important information in order to obtain the desired behavior. Here, observability and singularity are the main notions to be used for introducing an original term: quality observability index (q.o.i.). This is an original contribution for measuring the quality of the chaotic attractors. In this paper, the q.o.i. is defined and computed in order to confirm its usability.
Protective Role of IL7A-197 A/G Heterozygosity in the Development and Severity of Colorectal Cancer in the Bulgarian Population
Authors: Aleksandrova Elina , Vlaykova Tatyana , Ananiev Julian , Gulubova Maya
Published: November 2022

Background: Interleukin (IL)-17A and IL-17F, expressed mainly by a novel subset of CD-positive (+) T-helper (Th) cells of the immune system, has been closely related to inflammatory conditions underlying colorectal cancer pathogenesis. Accordingly, we conducted a case-control study to investigate the association of common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the IL17A and IL17F genes (rs2275913 and rs763780, respectively) with the susceptibility and severity of CRC patients from the Bulgarian population. Methods and Materials: 136 patients with histologically confirmed CRC diagnosis and 116 healthy individuals were recruited in the present study. Genotypes were determined by the restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction (RFLP-PCR) technique. Results: The IL17A heterozygous A/G-genotype was overrepresented among the control group (p = 0.003). Additionally, the carriers of the heterozygous A/G-genotype had a 2.39-fold lower risk for CRC compared to the G/G-genotype (OR = 0.418, p = 0.006). Our results also indicated that in the advanced CRC stages (III + IV) the heterozygous genotype (A/G) appeared to be less frequent (p = 0.024, χ2-test). Among the patients with detected distant metastases, the A/G-carriers were the smallest part (14.3%) compared to the homozygous genotypes A/A (42.9%) and G/G (42.8%), p = 0.006. There was no association of the studied IL17F rs763780 SNP with susceptibility and severity of CRC among the studied subjects, although the heterozygous C/T-carriers had shorter median survival compared to the T/T-carriers (p = 0.129). Conclusions: Our study finds a protective role of heterozygosity for the IL17A-197A/G SNP and negative effects of the A-allele on CRC progression.
Study of Surface Integrity of Titanium Alloy (TC4) by Belt Grinding to Achieve the Same Surface Roughness Range
Authors: Jiang Guiyun , Zhao Zeyong , Xiao Guijian , Li Shaochuan , Chen Benqiang , Zhuo Xiaoqin , Zhang Jie
Published: November 2022

Titanium alloy materials are used in a variety of engineering applications in the aerospace, aircraft, electronics, and shipbuilding industries, and due to the continuous improvement of the contemporary age, surface integrity needs to be improved for engineering applications. Belt grinding parameters and levels directly affect the surface integrity of titanium alloys (TC4), which further affects the fatigue life of the titanium alloys during service. In order to investigate the surface integrity of titanium alloys at different roughness levels, the surfaces were repeatedly ground with the same type and different models of abrasive belts. The results showed that at roughness Ra levels of 0.4 μm to 0.2 μm, the compressive residual stresses decreased with increasing linear velocity and there were problems with large surface morphological defects. At the roughness Ra of 0.2 μm or less, grinding improves the surface morphology, the compressive residual stress increases with increasing feed rate, and the surface hardness decreases with increasing linear velocity. In addition, the research facilitates the engineering of grinding parameters and levels that affect surface integrity under different roughness conditions, providing a theoretical basis and practical reference.
Winogradsky Bioelectrochemical System as a Novel Strategy to Enrich Electrochemically Active Microorganisms from Arsenic-Rich Sediments
Authors: Cantillo-González Angela , Anguita Javiera , Rojas Claudia , Vargas Ignacio T.
Published: November 2022

Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) have been extensively studied for treatment and remediation. However, BESs have the potential to be used for the enrichment of microorganisms that could replace their natural electron donor or acceptor for an electrode. In this study, Winogradsky BES columns with As-rich sediments extracted from an Andean watershed were used as a strategy to enrich lithotrophic electrochemically active microorganisms (EAMs) on electrodes (i.e., cathodes). After 15 months, Winogradsky BESs registered power densities up to 650 μWcm−2. Scanning electron microscopy and linear sweep voltammetry confirmed microbial growth and electrochemical activity on cathodes. Pyrosequencing evidenced differences in bacterial composition between sediments from the field and cathodic biofilms. Six EAMs from genera Herbaspirillum, Ancylobacter, Rhodococcus, Methylobacterium, Sphingomonas, and Pseudomonas were isolated from cathodes using a lithoautotrophic As oxidizers culture medium. These results suggest that the tested Winogradsky BES columns result in an enrichment of electrochemically active As-oxidizing microorganisms. A bioelectrochemical boost of centenarian enrichment approaches, such as the Winogradsky column, represents a promising strategy for prospecting new EAMs linked with the biogeochemical cycles of different metals and metalloids.
Development of 3D Printed Enzymatic Microreactors for Lipase-Catalyzed Reactions in Deep Eutectic Solvent-Based Media
Authors: Bellou Myrto G. , Gkantzou Elena , Skonta Anastasia , Moschovas Dimitrios , Spyrou Konstantinos , Avgeropoulos Apostolos , Gournis Dimitrios , Stamatis Haralambos
Published: November 2022

In this study, 3D printing technology was exploited for the development of immobilized enzyme microreactors that could be used for biocatalytic processes in Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES)-based media. 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) microwell plates or tubular microfluidic reactors were modified with polyethylenimine (PEI) and lipase from Candida antarctica (CALB) was covalently immobilized in the interior of each structure. DESs were found to have a negligible effect on the activity and stability of CALB, and the system proved highly stable and reusable in the presence of DESs for the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl butyrate (p-NPB). A kinetic study under flow conditions revealed an enhancement of substrate accessibility in the presence of Betaine: Glycerol (Bet:Gly) DES, while the system was not severely affected by diffusion limitations. Incubation of microreactors in 100% Bet:Gly preserved the enzyme activity by 53% for 30 days of storage at 60 °C, while the buffer-stored sample had already been deactivated. The microfluidic enzyme reactor was efficiently used for the trans-esterification of ethyl ferulate (EF) with glycerol towards the production of glyceryl ferulate (GF), known for its antioxidant potential. The biocatalytic process under continuous flow conditions exhibited 23 times higher productivity than the batch reaction system. This study featured an effective and robust biocatalytic system with immobilized lipase that can be used both in hydrolytic and synthetic applications, while further optimization is expected to upgrade the microreactor system performance.
Improving Swimming Performance of Photolithography-Based Microswimmers Using Curvature Structures
Authors: Tan Liyuan , Wang Zihan , Chen Zhi , Shi Xiangcheng , Cheang U
Published: November 2022

The emergence of robotic microswimmers and their huge potential in biomedical applications such as drug delivery, non-invasive surgery, and bio-sensing facilitates studies to improve their effectiveness. Recently, achiral microswimmers that have neither flexible nor helical structures have garnered attention because of their simple structures and fabrication process while preserving adequate swimming velocity and controllability. In this paper, the crescent shape was utilized to create photolithography-fabricated crescent-shaped achiral microswimmers. The microswimmers were actuated using rotating magnetic fields at low Reynolds numbers. Compared with the previously reported achiral microswimmers, the crescent-shaped microswimmers showed significant improvement in forward swimming speed. The effects of different curvatures, arm angles, and procession angles on the velocities of microswimmers were investigated. Moreover, the optimal swimming motion was defined by adjusting the field strength of the magnetic field. Finally, the effect of the thickness of the microswimmers on their swimming velocity was investigated.
A Novel Packaged Ultra-High Q Silicon MEMS Butterfly Vibratory Gyroscope
Authors: Jia Lu , Han Guowei , Wei Zhenyu , Si Chaowei , Ning Jin , Yang Fuhua , Han Weihua
Published: November 2022

A novel three-dimensional (3D) wafer-level sandwich packaging technology is here applied in the dual mass MEMS butterfly vibratory gyroscope (BFVG) to achieve ultra-high Q factor. A GIS (glass in silicon) composite substrate with glass as the main body and low-resistance silicon column as the vertical lead is processed by glass reflow technology, which effectively avoids air leakage caused by thermal stress mismatch. Sputter getter material is used on the glass cap to further improve the vacuum degree. The Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) gyroscope structure is sandwiched between the composite substrate and glass cap to realize vertical electrical interconnection by high-vacuum anodic bonding. The Q factors of drive and sense modes in BFVG measured by the self-developed double closed-loop circuit system are significantly improved to 8.628 times and 2.779 times higher than those of the traditional ceramic shell package. The experimental results of the processed gyroscope also demonstrate a high resolution of 0.1°/s, the scale factor of 1.302 mV/(°/s), and nonlinearity of 558 ppm in the full-scale range of ±1800°/s. By calculating the Allen variance, we obtained the angular random walk (ARW) of 1.281°/√h and low bias instability (BI) of 9.789°/h. The process error makes the actual drive and sense frequency of the gyroscope deviate by 8.989% and 5.367% compared with the simulation.
Heat Capacity Estimation Using a Complete Set of Homodesmotic Reactions for Organic Compounds
Authors: Khursan Sergey L.
Published: November 2022

Reliable information about isobaric heat capacities CP is necessary to determine the energies of organic compounds and chemical processes at an arbitrary temperature. In this work, the possibility of theoretical estimation of CP by the homodesmotic method is analyzed. Three cases of CP calculation applying the methodology of the complete set of homodesmotic reactions (CS HDRs) are considered: the gas- and liquid-phase CP of organic compounds of various classes at 298 K (the mean absolute value of reaction heat capacity, MA ΔCP = 1.44 and 2.83 J/mol·K for the gas and liquid phase, correspondingly); and the gas-phase CP of n-alkanes C2–C10 in the temperature range of 200–1500 K with an average error in calculating the heat capacity of 0.93 J/mol·K. In the latter case, the coefficients of the Shomate equation are determined for all n-alkanes that satisfy the homodesmoticity condition. New values of gas- and liquid-phase heat capacities are obtained for 41 compounds. The CS HDRs-based approach for estimating the CP of organic compounds is characterized by high accuracy, which is not inferior to that of the best CP-additive schemes and allows us to analyze the reproducibility of the calculation results and eliminate unreliable reference data.
Effects of Early versus Standard Central Line Removal on the Growth of Preterm Infants with Very Low Birth Weight: A Non-Inferiority, Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Romańska Justyna , Wawrzoniak Tomasz , Krajewski Paweł , Seliga-Siwecka Joanna , Brunets Natalia , Lehman Izabela , Bokiniec Renata , Adamska Ewa , Królak-Olejnik Barbara , Modzelewski Jan , Szczapa Tomasz
Published: November 2022

Very preterm infants are usually supported by parenteral nutrition delivered through central lines (CLs) while progressing with enteral intake, although the optimal time point for their removal is unclear. This study evaluated the impact of the CL discontinuation time on the short-term growth outcomes of preterm infants. A non-inferiority, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial was conducted in four neonatal intensive care units in Poland. Preterm infants with very low birth weight (VLBW) without congenital abnormalities were eligible. Patients were allocated to discontinue central access at an enteral feeding volume of 100 mL/kg/day (intervention group) or 140 mL/kg/day (control group). The study’s primary outcome was weight at 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age, with a non-inferiority margin of −210 g. Overall, 211 patients were allocated to the intervention or control groups between January 2019 and February 2021, of which 101 and 100 were eligible for intention-to-treat analysis, respectively. The mean weight was 2232 g and 2200 g at 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age in the intervention and control groups, respectively. The mean between-group difference was 32 g (95% confidence interval, −68 to 132; p = 0.531), which did not cross the specified margin of non-inferiority. No intervention-related adverse events were observed. Early CL removal was non-inferior to the standard type for short-term growth outcomes in VLBW infants.
Association between Blood Manganese Levels and Visceral Adipose Tissue in the United States: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Tao Chengzhe , Huang Yuna , Huang Xuzhao , Li Zhi , Fan Yun , Zhang Yan , Wan Tingya , Lu Liyu , Xu Qiaoqiao , Wu Wei , Wu Di , Zhang Feng , Lu Chuncheng
Published: November 2022

Background: Manganese (Mn) is an essential trace element with a narrow toxic margin for human health. The association between Mn exposure and adverse visceral adipose tissue (VAT) accumulation is unclear. Objective: This study aimed to estimate the associations of blood Mn levels with VAT mass or visceral obesity in the general population in the United States. Method: This cross-sectional study included data of 7297 individuals released by National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). VAT was quantified with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and blood Mn was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The generalized linear model and generalized additive model (GAM) were applied to estimate the linear and non-linear associations between Mn levels and VAT mass, respectively. Logistic regression was used to estimate the associations between blood Mn levels and the risk of visceral obesity. Results: Fully adjusted generalized linear regression revealed that individuals in the higher quantile of Mn had increased VAT mass compared with those in the lower quantile (β per quantile change = 0.025; 95% CI of 0.017, 0.033; p < 0.001). Positive associations were also observed in males and females (males: β per quantile change = 0.012, 95% CI of 0.002, 0.022 (p = 0.020); female: β per quantile change = 0.036; 95% CI of 0.023, 0.048 (p < 0.001)). The GAM illustrated that the non-linear associations between blood Mn levels and VAT mass were in U-shape patterns (effective degree of freedom >1 in total participants, males, and females). A stratified analysis found significant interactions between Mn and the family income-to-poverty ratio (PIR) in males, with stronger associations in males with a PIR < 1.3 (β = 0.109; 95% CI of 0.048, 0.170). Additional analyses revealed that individuals in the highest quantile of Mn had a 39% higher risk of visceral obesity (OR = 1.39; 95% CI of 1.15–1.69; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Higher blood Mn levels were positively associated with increased VAT mass and visceral obesity risk. The adverse VAT phenotype associated with excessive blood Mn levels should be further investigated.
The Body Status of Manganese and Activity of This Element-Dependent Mitochondrial Superoxide Dismutase in a Rat Model of Human Exposure to Cadmium and Co-Administration of Aronia melanocarpa L. Extract
Authors: Brzóska Małgorzata M. , Gałażyn-Sidorczuk Małgorzata , Kozłowska Magdalena , Smereczański Nazar M.
Published: November 2022

The impact of a polyphenol-rich 0.1% aqueous extract from Aronia melanocarpa L. berries (AE) on the body status of manganese (Mn) and the activity of this essential element-dependent mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) during treatment with cadmium (Cd) was investigated in a rat model of low-level and moderate environmental human exposure to this xenobiotic (1 and 5 mg Cd/kg diet, respectively, for 3–24 months). The exposure to Cd, dose- and duration-dependently, affected the body status of Mn (apparent absorption, body retention, serum and tissue concentrations, content in some organs and total Mn body burden, and urinary and faecal excretion) and the activity of MnSOD in the mitochondria of the liver, kidney, and brain. The administration of AE during the exposure to Cd prevented or at least partially protected the animals from the perturbation of the metabolism of Mn, as well as ameliorated changes in the activity of MnSOD and the concentration of Mn and protected from Cd accumulation in the mitochondria. In conclusion, AE may protect from disorders in the body status of Mn and influence the antioxidative capacity of cells under chronic exposure to Cd. The findings confirm the protective impact of aronia berries products against Cd toxicity.
The Role of Dietary Fibers in the Management of IBD Symptoms
Authors: Di Rosa Claudia , Altomare Annamaria , Imperia Elena , Spiezia Chiara , Khazrai Yeganeh Manon , Guarino Michele Pier Luca
Published: November 2022

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic, progressive, immune-mediated diseases of the intestinal tract. The main subtypes of IBDs are Chron’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). The etiology is still unclear, but there are genetic, environmental and host-related factors that contribute to the development of these diseases. Recent literature has shown that dietary therapy is the cornerstone of IBD treatment in terms of management of symptoms, relapse and care of the pathology. IBD patients show that microbiota dysbiosis and diet, especially dietary fiber, can modulate its composition. These patients are more at risk of energy protein malnutrition than the general population and are deficient in micronutrients. So far, no dietary component is considered responsible for IBD and there is not a specific therapeutic diet for it. The aim of this review is to evaluate the role of dietary fibers in CD and UC and help health professionals in the nutritional management of these pathologies. Further studies are necessary to determine the appropriate amount and type of fiber to suggest in the case of IBD to ameliorate psychosocial conditions and patients’ quality of life.
Dietary Potassium Intake and Risk of Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies
Authors: D’Elia Lanfranco , Masulli Maria , Cappuccio Francesco P. , Zarrella Aquilino F. , Strazzullo Pasquale , Galletti Ferruccio
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: Dietary potassium intake is positively associated with reduction of cardiovascular risk. Several data are available on the relationship between dietary potassium intake, diabetes risk and glucose metabolism, but with inconsistent results. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis of the prospective studies that explored the effect of dietary potassium intake on the risk of diabetes to overcome these limitations. (2) Methods: A random-effects dose–response meta-analysis was carried out for prospective studies. A potential non-linear relation was investigated using restricted cubic splines. (3) Results: A total of seven prospective studies met the inclusion criteria. Dose–response analysis detected a non-linear relationship between dietary potassium intake and diabetes risk, with significant inverse association starting from 2900 mg/day by questionnaire and between 2000 and 5000 mg/day by urinary excretion. There was high heterogeneity among studies, but no evidence of publication bias was found. (4) Conclusions: The results of this meta-analysis indicate that habitual dietary potassium consumption is associated with risk of diabetes by a non-linear dose–response relationship. The beneficial threshold found supports the campaigns in favour of an increase in dietary potassium intake to reduce the risk of morbidity and mortality. Further studies should be carried out to explore this topic.
Anticancer Effects of Thymoquinone through the Antioxidant Activity, Upregulation of Nrf2, and Downregulation of PD-L1 in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Adinew Getinet M. , Messeha Samia S. , Taka Equar , Badisa Ramesh B. , Soliman Karam F. A.
Published: November 2022

The variety of therapies available for treating and preventing triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is constrained by the absence of progesterone receptors, estrogen receptors, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. Nrf2 (nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor), and PD-L1 (program cell death ligand 1), a downstream signaling target, have a strong correlation to oxidative stress and inflammation, major factors in the development and progression of TNBC. In this study, the genetically distinct MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 TNBC cells were treated with the natural component thymoquinone (TQ). The results show that TQ exhibits considerable antioxidant activity and decreases the generation of H2O2, at the same time increasing catalase (CAT) activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme, and glutathione (GSH). Additionally, the results show that TQ treatment increased the levels of the different genes involved in the oxidative stress-antioxidant defense system PRNP, NQO1, and GCLM in both cell lines with significant large-fold change in MDA-MB-468 cells (+157.65 vs. +1.7, +48.87 vs. +2.63 and +4.78 vs. +2.17), respectively. Nrf2 mRNA and protein expression were also significantly increased in TQ-treated TNBC cells despite being higher in MDA-MB-468 cells (6.67 vs. 4.06). Meanwhile, TQ administration increased mRNA levels while decreasing PD-L1 protein expression in both cell lines. In conclusion, TQ modifies the expression of multiple oxidative-stress-antioxidant system genes, ROS, antioxidant enzymes, Nrf2, and PD-L1 protein, pointing to the therapeutic potential and chemopreventive utilization of TQ in TNBC.
Food Composition Data and Tools Online and Their Use in Research and Policy: EuroFIR AISBL Contribution in 2022
Authors: Durazzo Alessandra , Astley Siân , Kapsokefalou Maria , Costa Helena Soares , Mantur-Vierendeel Angelika , Pijls Loek , Bucchini Luca , Glibetić Marija , Presser Karl , Finglas Paul
Published: November 2022

Food, nutrition, and health are linked, and detailed knowledge of nutrient compositions and bioactive characteristics is needed to understand these relationships. Additionally, increasingly these data are required by database systems and applications. This communication aims to describe the contribution to databases and nutrition fields as well as the activities of EuroFIR AISBL; this member-based, non-profit association was founded to ensure sustained advocacy for food information in Europe and facilitate improved data quality, storage, and access as well as encouraging wider exploitation of food composition data for both research and commercial purposes. In addition to the description of its role and main objectives, a snapshot of EuroFIR AISBL’s activities over the years is also given using a quantitative research literature analysis approach. The focus of this communication is to provide descriptions and updates of EuroFIR’s online tools, i.e., FoodEXplorer, eBASIS, and PlantLIBRA, by highlighting the main uses and applications. Integrating food-related infrastructures and databases, following standardized and harmonized approaches, and considering interoperability and metrological principles are significant challenges. Ongoing activities and future plans of EuroFIR AISBL are highlighted, including, for instance, work within the Food Nutrition Security Cloud (FNS-Cloud) to make food, nutrition, and (food) security data more findable, accessible, interoperable, and ultimately reusable.
Serum and Urine Metabolites in Healthy Men after Consumption of Acidified Milk and Yogurt
Authors: Bütikofer Ueli , Badertscher René , Blaser-Freiburghaus Carola , Fuchsmann Pascal , Tena Stern Mireille , Kuert Philipp A. , Pimentel Grégory , Burton-Pimentel Kathryn Jane , Vionnet Nathalie , Vergères Guy
Published: November 2022

The identification of molecular biomarkers that can be used to quantitatively link dietary intake to phenotypic traits in humans is a key theme in modern nutritional research. Although dairy products (with and without fermentation) represent a major food group, the identification of markers of their intake lags behind that of other food groups. Here, we report the results from an analysis of the metabolites in postprandial serum and urine samples from a randomized crossover study with 14 healthy men who ingested acidified milk, yogurt, and a non-dairy meal. Our study confirms the potential of lactose and its metabolites as markers of lactose-containing dairy foods and the dependence of their combined profiles on the fermentation status of the consumed products. Furthermore, indole-3-lactic acid and 3-phenyllactic acid are two products of fermentation whose postprandial behaviour strongly discriminates yogurt from milk intake. Our study also provides evidence of the ability of milk fermentation to increase the acute delivery of free amino acids to humans. Notably, 3,5-dimethyloctan-2-one also proves to be a specific marker for milk and yogurt consumption, as well as for cheese consumption (previously published data). These molecules deserve future characterisation in human interventional and observational studies.
A Choice Experiment Model for Honey Attributes: Italian Consumer Preferences and Socio-Demographic Profiles
Authors: Sparacino Antonina , Merlino Valentina Maria , Blanc Simone , Borra Danielle , Massaglia Stefano
Published: November 2022

Honey production is currently experiencing a great deal of media attention, with many positive attributes of this hive product emerging. The purpose of the study is to investigate consumer preference and what key information informs people’s purchase of honey. This study is based on consumer surveys and experimental evaluation. First of all, the relative importance assigned by consumers to 12 honey product attributes was defined by using the best–worst scaling (BWS) methodology. Secondly, the latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify different honey consumers based on preferences. The findings demonstrate that “health aspects” and “organoleptic compound” are the main categories of information that consumers tend to research. The sample segmentation defined four different consumer clusters: people who value health, sustainability, organic sourcing and quality. Additionally, socio-demographic characteristics such as age, education level and profession also played a part on consumer choice and the characterisation of each cluster. This study can contribute to fostering good nutrition and improving sustainability within communities.
Remission as an Emerging Therapeutic Target in Type 2 Diabetes in the Era of New Glucose-Lowering Agents: Benefits, Challenges, and Treatment Approaches
Authors: Vasdeki Dimitra , Koufakis Theocharis , Tsamos Georgios , Busetto Luca , Zebekakis Pantelis , Kotsa Kalliopi
Published: November 2022

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a progressive disease with a growing prevalence, associated with an increased risk of complications. The introduction of new classes of antidiabetic drugs into clinical practice has dramatically changed the landscape of diabetes therapy. However, despite the progress made in the pharmacotherapy of T2DM, mitigating the burden of the disease on individuals, societies and health care systems remains a challenge. Remission has recently emerged as a therapeutic target in T2DM, achievable through a wide range of interventions. Recent studies have shown that extensive lifestyle changes, such as weight reduction, bariatric surgery, and intensive glucose lowering therapy, can prompt the remission of diabetes, but some unanswered questions remain regarding its long-term effects on diabetic complications. Metabolic surgery and novel classes of glucose-lowering medications are currently the most effective interventions to induce weight loss and by extension remission in patients with diabetes; however, the ideal strategy to achieve the long-term maintenance of remission remains doubtful. In this narrative review, we discuss the available therapeutic approaches to target the remission of diabetes through personalized multimodal care, based on the latest evidence.
The Effect of the Restrictive Ketogenic Diet on the Body Composition, Haematological and Biochemical Parameters, Oxidative Stress and Advanced Glycation End-Products in Young Wistar Rats with Diet-Induced Obesity
Authors: Drabińska Natalia , Juśkiewicz Jerzy , Wiczkowski Wiesław
Published: November 2022

Over the past few years, the interest in the application of the ketogenic diet (KD) for obesity management is growing. Although many studies have been performed on the effects of KD, the metabolic and physiological impact of KD is still not fully understood. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of calorie-restricted KD on the body weight and composition, oxidative stress, and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) assessed in an animal model with young Wistar rats. KD was followed for 4 weeks in maturity after an obesity-inducing high-fat diet during adolescence, resulting in a slowing down of the weight gain but higher adiposity compared to a standard diet. Increased adiposity resulted in an deterioration of liver parameters, suggesting negative changes in this organ. No adverse effects of KD were determined in haematological parameters in young rats. KD did not affect AGEs; however, a decrease in oxidative stress was observed. Based on the presented results, it can be concluded that KD applied for weight loss in obesity induced in adolescence may reduce oxidative stress without compromising the haematological status; however, caution may be required to control adiposity, glucose level and liver health. Thus, KD therapy should be carefully controlled, especially in young subjects.
Factors Affecting Cellular Uptake of Anthocyanins: The Role of pH, Glucose and Anthocyanin Structure
Authors: Cahyana Yana , Mills Charlotte Elizabeth , Huda Syamsul , Gordon Michael H.
Published: November 2022

Anthocyanins have poor bioavailability, but the factors affecting this remain unclear. Uptake into cells could impact the bioavailability; therefore, understanding factors affecting anthocyanin uptake is pivotal to improve their bioavailability and reveal the mechanism for their uptake. This study aimed to investigate the effect of anthocyanin structure, pH and glucose on the uptake of anthocyanins by Caco-2 cells. Anthocyanin extract from strawberry and red grape at 10 or 20 µM was added to Caco-2 cells. Anthocyanin toxicity to the cells was firstly examined to ensure the same cell viability. The uptake was carried out at pH 7 and 6.5 to evaluate the effect of pH. Glucose (1 mM) was used to investigate its effect. The results show that anthocyanins toxicity was dependent on the concentration and length of exposure. Anthocyanin uptake was concentration-dependent and affected by their structures, in which cyanidin-3-glucoside uptake was higher than pelargonidin-3-glucoside. No metabolites from Caco-2 cell activity were detected. An increased uptake with a decrease in pH was observed, which may be linked to the increase in anthocyanins stability and may indicate the role of proton co-transporter. This also suggests that the jejunum would be the favourable section of small intestine for anthocyanin uptake. Reduced anthocyanin uptake in the presence of glucose suggested that facilitative glucose transporter could be involved in the uptake of anthocyanins by Caco-2 cells.
Mulberry Leaf (Morus alba L.) Extracts and Its Chlorogenic Acid Isomer Component Improve Glucolipotoxicity-Induced Hepatic Lipid Accumulation via Downregulating miR-34a and Decreased Inflammation
Authors: Yang Tsung-Yuan , Yu Meng-Hsun , Wu Yi-Liang , Hong Ching-Chun , Chen Chin-Shuh , Chan Kuei-Chuan , Wang Chau-Jong
Published: November 2022

Mulberry leaf (Morus alba L.) is used as a traditional medicine and potential health food to treat various metabolic diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. However, we sought the mechanisms by which functional components of mulberry leaves mediate diabetic steatohepatitis. We applied an in vitro model of HepG2 cells induced by glucolipotoxicity and evaluated the effects of MLE and its major components nCGA, Crp, and CGA. The results showed that MLE and nCGA reduced liver fat accumulation by inhibiting SREBP-1/FASN, SREBP-2/HMG-CoAR, and activating PPARα/CPT-1. Additionally, MLE and nCGA decreased inflammatory responses associated with NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-6 to alleviate steatohepatitis. Furthermore, we showed that MLE and nCGA exerted anti-glucolipotoxicity effects by downregulating miR-34a, thus activating SIRT1/AMPK signaling, and subsequently suppressing hepatic lipid accumulation.