bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Ultrasound for Preventing Honey Crystallization
Authors: Scripcă Laura Agripina , Amariei Sonia
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ultrasound treatment for preventing honey crystallization on the physicochemical and microbiological properties of unifloral honey and polyfloral honey. Honey samples without any treatment were used as a control group for comparison. The effect of applying ultrasound treatment was evaluated by studying over time the tendency of crystallization, the rheological properties of honey and chemical and microbiological properties. The parameters analyzed for the two groups of samples (treated and untreated with ultrasound), which did not vary or had small variations during the research were water content, acidity, water activity, glucose, fructose, sucrose, glucose/water ratio, glucose/fructose ratio. The crystallization process was installed in the control samples from the first month of the study, and much later in the treated samples. The color of the untreated samples varied considerably, and the color of the treated ones remained stable or slightly varied. For the control samples, the smallest variation in hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) concentration was in raspberry honey (5%), and the most significant variation was in honeydew honey (30%). For the treated samples, the largest variation of this parameter was found in tillia honey (127%), and the smallest variation was in rapeseed honey (26%). The microbiological quality was higher for the treated samples. In the ultrasound-treated samples of acacia honey, honeydew honey and grassland honey, yeasts, molds or standard plate counts (SPCs) were undetectable. For control samples, SPC values were <10–50 cfu/g. Ultrasound-treated samples maintained their SPC parameter levels or were thus reduced (<10–20 cfu/g). Yeasts and molds were undetectable or had value between <10 and 10 cfu/g. The yeasts and the molds ranged in the control samples between <10 and 40 cfu/g.
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Effect of Plant Essential Oils and Sambucus nigra Extract in Salmon Burgers
Authors: Jonušaite Kristina , Venskutonis Petras Rimantas , Martínez-Hernández Gines Benito , Taboada-Rodríguez Amaury , Nieto Gema , López-Gómez Antonio , Marín-Iniesta Fulgencio
Published: April 2021

The antioxidant capacity of oregano (OEO) and clove (CLEO) essential oils and black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) flower extract (SNE) were compared with butylhydroxytoluene (BHT) regarding its protection against lipid peroxidation and microbial counts in salmon burgers stored at 4 °C for 14 days and after cooking. The content of total phenols was 5.74% in OEO, 2.64% in CLEO and 2.67 % in the SNE. The total phenolic content and the antioxidant capacity were significantly higher (p < 0.05) for SNE and OEO. Both essential oils showed a similar IC50 and inhibition percentage of lipid peroxidation to BHT. The combination of OEO and SNE reduced 29% of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), while BHT reduced 31% of TBARS generated during refrigeration storage in salmon burgers in relation to the control sample without antioxidants. Additionally, the microbial counts after 14 days of refrigeration were the lowest in burgers when the combination of OEO and SNE was used. This study concludes that OEO and SNE can be used as inhibitors of lipid oxidation in salmon products and as natural candidates to replace commonly used synthetic antioxidants and antimicrobials in these food products.
Modelling Volume Change and Deformation in Food Products/Processes: An Overview
Authors: Purlis Emmanuel , Cevoli Chiara , Fabbri Angelo
Published: April 2021

Volume change and large deformation occur in different solid and semi-solid foods during processing, e.g., shrinkage of fruits and vegetables during drying and of meat during cooking, swelling of grains during hydration, and expansion of dough during baking and of snacks during extrusion and puffing. In addition, food is broken down during oral processing. Such phenomena are the result of complex and dynamic relationships between composition and structure of foods, and driving forces established by processes and operating conditions. In particular, water plays a key role as plasticizer, strongly influencing the state of amorphous materials via the glass transition and, thus, their mechanical properties. Therefore, it is important to improve the understanding about these complex phenomena and to develop useful prediction tools. For this aim, different modelling approaches have been applied in the food engineering field. The objective of this article is to provide a general (non-systematic) review of recent (2005–2021) and relevant works regarding the modelling and simulation of volume change and large deformation in various food products/processes. Empirical- and physics-based models are considered, as well as different driving forces for deformation, in order to identify common bottlenecks and challenges in food engineering applications.
Chemical and Bioactive Features of Amaranthus caudatus L. Flowers and Optimized Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Betalains
Authors: Roriz Custódio Lobo , Xavier Virginie , Heleno Sandrina A. , Pinela José , Dias Maria Inês , Calhelha Ricardo C. , Morales Patricia , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R. , Barros Lillian
Published: April 2021

The vibrant colours of many plants are due to secondary metabolites, such as nitrogen-containing compounds, where betacyanins are included. These compounds can be found in plants such as Amaranthus caudatus L. that, due to their high nutritional benefits, have been overproduced, which leads to the accumulation of large amounts of bio-residues. Among these bio-residues, the flowers which have a very intense pink colour and present no economic value or subsequent destination can be exploited as sources of natural colouring agents (betacyanins). This work aimed at characterising the flower’s extract in terms of bioactive molecules such as tocopherols, organic acids, but essentially in terms of betacyanins, in order to obtain a natural colouring agent. For the extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) ideal conditions were obtained using the Response Surface Methodology (RSM), allowing the attainment of an enriched extract of betacyanins in high yields and purity. The obtained extracts were analysed for their bioactive potential, namely antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties. From the obtained results, three isoforms of tocopherols were detected, β-tocopherol (0.884 ± 0.003 mg/100 g dry weight (dw)) being the most abundant one. Regarding the organic acids, oxalic (2.48 ± 0.05 mg/100 g dw), shikimic (0.170 ± 0.003 mg/100 g dw) and traces of fumaric acid were found. Four betacyanins were identified and quantified, namely: amaranthine (171 ± 1 mg/g extract), isoamaranthine (38 ± 1 mg/g extract), betanin (1.6 ± 0.1 mg/g), and isobetanin (1.3 ± 0.1 mg/g extract). The obtained extract also presented antioxidant activity with inhibition concentration (IC50 values) of 29.0 ± 0.4 μg/mL and 114 ± 4 μg/mL for Δt of 60 min and 120 min, respectively in the oxidative haemolysis inhibition assay (OxHLIA) assay. The obtained extract also presented an interesting antibacterial activity with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 5 to 20 mg/mL against pathogenic bacteria and revealed no toxicity for normal cells.
Fresh Fish Degradation and Advances in Preservation Using Physical Emerging Technologies
Authors: Tavares Jéssica , Martins Ana , Fidalgo Liliana G. , Lima Vasco , Amaral Renata A. , Pinto Carlos A. , Silva Ana M. , Saraiva Jorge A.
Published: April 2021

Fresh fish is a highly perishable food characterized by a short shelf-life, and for this reason, it must be properly handled and stored to slow down its deterioration and to ensure microbial safety and marketable shelf-life. Modern consumers seek fresh-like, minimally processed foods due to the raising concerns regarding the use of preservatives in foods, as is the case of fresh fish. Given this, emergent preservation techniques are being evaluated as a complement or even replacement of conventional preservation methodologies, to assure food safety and extend shelf-life without compromising food safety. This paper reviews the main mechanisms responsible for fish spoilage and the use of conventional physical methodologies to preserve fresh fish, encompassing the main effects of each methodology on microbiological and chemical quality aspects of this highly perishable food. In this sense, conventional storage procedures (refrigeration and freezing) are counterpointed with more recent cold-based storage methodologies, namely chilling and superchilling. In addition, the use of novel food packaging methodologies (edible films and coatings) is also presented and discussed, along with a new storage methodology, hyperbaric storage, that states storage pressure control to hurdle microbial development and slow down organoleptic decay at subzero, refrigeration, and room temperatures.
Comparative Evaluation of Chemical Composition, Phenolic Compounds, and Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Tropical Black Bolete Mushroom Using Different Preservation Methods
Authors: Kumla Jaturong , Suwannarach Nakarin , Tanruean Keerati , Lumyong Saisamorn
Published: April 2021

Tropical black bolete, Phlebopus portentosus, provides various nutritional benefits and natural antioxidants to humans. In this study, the chemical composition, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of fresh mushroom samples and samples stored for a period of one year using different preservation methods (drying, brining, and frozen) were investigated. The results indicated that the brining method significantly reduced the protein and fat contents of the mushrooms. The polyphenol and flavonoid contents of the frozen sample were not significantly different from that of the fresh sample. The results revealed that an inhibition value of 50% (IC50) for the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay of the extract of the dried and frozen samples was not statistically different from that of the fresh sample. The IC50 value of 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) value in the extract of the frozen sample were not found to be significantly different from those of the fresh sample. Furthermore, the lowest degree of antioxidant activity was found in the extract of the brined sample. Additionally, the antimicrobial activities of the extracts of the fresh and frozen samples were not significantly different and both extracts could have inhibited the growth of all tested Gram-positive bacteria and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Highly-Efficient Release of Ferulic Acid from Agro-Industrial By-Products via Enzymatic Hydrolysis with Cellulose-Degrading Enzymes: Part I–The Superiority of Hydrolytic Enzymes Versus Conventional Hydrolysis
Authors: Juhnevica-Radenkova Karina , Kviesis Jorens , Moreno Diego A. , Seglina Dalija , Vallejo Fernando , Valdovska Anda , Radenkovs Vitalijs
Published: April 2021

Historically Triticum aestívum L. and Secale cereále L. are widely used in the production of bakery products. From the total volume of grain cultivated, roughly 85% is used for the manufacturing of flour, while the remaining part is discarded or utilized rather inefficiently. The limited value attached to bran is associated with their structural complexity, i.e., the presence of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which makes this material suitable mostly as a feed supplement, while in food production its use presents a challenge. To valorize these materials to food and pharmaceutical applications, additional pre-treatment is required. In the present study, an effective, sustainable, and eco-friendly approach to ferulic acid (FA) production was demonstrated through the biorefining process accomplished by non-starch polysaccharides degrading enzymes. Up to 11.3 and 8.6 g kg−1 of FA was released from rye and wheat bran upon 24 h enzymatic hydrolysis with multi-enzyme complex Viscozyme® L, respectively.
Children’s Attitudes and Behaviors about Oral Health and Dental Practices
Authors: Fernandes Sara Costa , Louceiro Ana , Lopes Luísa Bandeira , Esteves Francisco , Arriaga Patrícia
Published: April 2021

The present study sought to contribute to a better understanding of children’s attitudes and behaviors regarding oral health and dental practices. The sample was composed of 101 children (8–10 years), collected from several schools in the Lisbon metropolitan area. Our main goals were to collect a survey of information about the beliefs, attitudes, habits and knowledge of children about oral and dental issues in order to not only have an overview of them but also to serve as a basis and a starting point for the development of intervention programs to increase positive attitudes and behaviors related to oral health and promote greater knowledge about these subjects. In general, children reported positive behaviors regarding dental habits and oral hygiene practices. Children’s opinions and beliefs about dentists were also globally positive; however, the results suggested that younger children reported more positive attitudes, emotions and previous experiences. Regarding children’s knowledge about these dental issues, the results were quite negative and worrying, ruled by ignorance and incorrect beliefs and behaviors. In sum, all the results and conclusions of this study may contribute to the development of educational programs within the scope of the promotion of oral health and hygiene practices—“An Adventure about Oral Health.”
An Exploratory Study to Develop a Virtual Reality Based Simulation Training Program for Hypovolemic Shock Nursing Care: A Qualitative Study Using Focus Group Interview
Authors: Jeon Jaehee , Park Sihyun
Published: April 2021

Although patients with hypovolemic shock are common in clinical practice, nursing students have little chance of coming across them during their practicum. The main focus of this qualitative study was to explore the elements essential for a virtual reality (VR) based simulation program for hypovolemic shock nursing care. To this end, we conducted focus group interviews with three expert groups of 15 (five from each group) experienced clinical nurses (≥10 years) with experience in hypovolemic shock nursing care. Data were collected in June and July 2020, and after transcribing the interviews, the data analysis involved theme development as part of qualitative content analysis. The exploratory research results were classified into five themes: experience of hypovolemic shock nursing care, determinants of patient prognosis, essential nursing competence, scenario construction, and direction for VR simulation program development. Based on their experience of hypovolemic shock nursing care, the participants suggested concrete development directions for scenarios and VR-based simulation training programs. This article proposes the development of a VR-based simulation program that reflects the exploratory research results of this study in order for nursing students to take an interest in hypovolemic shock nursing care and efficiently improve related skills.
Refractory Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Colitis Improved by Tacrolimus: A Case Report
Authors: Kunogi Yasuhito , Tominaga Keiichi , Abe Keiichiro , Kanazawa Mimari , Tanaka Takanao , Watanabe Shoko , Kondo Masayuki , Kanamori Akira , Iijima Makoto , Goda Kenichi , Nozawa Yumi , Ishida Kazuyuki , Irisawa Atsushi
Published: April 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) increase T-cell activity and antitumor immune response. However, they also have immune-related adverse effects that can affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. A 62-year-old male patient who had undergone right lung upper lobectomy for adenocarcinoma of the lung received chemotherapy with pemetrexed sodium hydrate, carboplatin, and pembrolizumab to prevent postoperative recurrence of liver metastasis. However, the patient experienced severe diarrhea four months after the start of chemotherapy. Although a corticosteroid and two biological preparations were administered to alleviate the diarrhea, no improvement was observed. Eventually, remission was achieved when tacrolimus was administered. Treatment with corticosteroids is recommended for patients with GI adverse effects of ICIs. Rapid introduction of infliximab is necessary for refractory patients. Nevertheless, for refractory cases such as that of our patient, for whom even this regimen is inefficacious, tacrolimus might be recommended to induce remission as with cases of ulcerative colitis.
The Beneficial Effects of Cognitive Walking Program on Improving Cognitive Function and Physical Fitness in Older Adults
Authors: Kang Suh-Jung , Kim Byung-Hoon , Lee Hyo , Wang Jinsung
Published: April 2021

Exercise and cognitive training can improve the brain-related health of the elderly. We investigated the effects of a cognitive walking program (CWP) involving simultaneous performance of indoor walking and cognitive training on cognitive function and physical fitness compared to normal walking (NW) outdoors. Participants were grouped according to whether they performed regular exercise for at least 3 months prior to the participation in this study. Active participants were assigned to the CWP-active group (CWPAG). Sedentary participants were randomly assigned to the CWP (CWPSG) or NW group (NWSG). CWP and NW were performed for 60 min, 3 times a week, for 6 months. Cognitive function (attention, visuospatial function, memory, and frontal/executive function) and physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness, lower extremity muscular strength, and active balance ability) were measured at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months after the program onset. Cognitive function showed improvements over time in all three groups, especially in CWPAG. No clear difference was observed between CWPSG and NWSG. Improvements in all fitness measures were also observed in all three groups. These findings collectively indicate the beneficial effects of CWP, as well as NW, on improving cognitive function and physical fitness in older adults, especially those who are physically active.
Analyses of Commercially Available Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs Formulated with Compliant and Non-Compliant Ethanol
Authors: Tse Timothy J. , Nelson Fina B. , Reaney Martin J. T.
Published: April 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic led to panic-buying of alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHRs). In response, governmental agencies (e.g., Health Canada) permitted the sale of ABHRs formulated with “technical-grade” ethanol to alleviate the growing demand. Technical-grade ethanol contains elevated concentrations of impurities (e.g., acetaldehyde, etc.), which may exhibit dose-dependent toxicity. In this study, a rapid solvent extraction was employed to analyze gelled ABHRs via gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. In total, 26 liquid and 16 gelled ABHRs were analyzed for nine common impurities to determine compliance with Health Canada interim guidelines. Of 42 samples analyzed, 11 ABHRs appear to be non-compliant with interim Health Canada guidelines. Non-compliant ABHRs exhibited elevated concentrations of acetaldehyde, with a maximal concentration observed of 251 ± 10 µL L−1; 3.3× higher than currently permitted. Nonetheless, frequent testing of ABHRs should be routinely conducted to reduce the risk of consumer exposure to non-compliant ABHRs.
Healthcare Utilization and Knee Osteoarthritis Symptoms among Urban Older Malaysian
Authors: Kamsan Siti Salwana , Singh Devinder Kaur Ajit , Tan Maw Pin , Kumar Saravana
Published: April 2021

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent chronic disorder in the older population. While timely management is important to minimize the consequences of knee OA, information on the utilization of healthcare services among this population remains limited. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine the healthcare utilization and its associated factors in older persons with knee OA. Cross-sectional data from 1073 participants aged 60 years and above from the Malaysian Elders Longitudinal Research (MELoR) study were included. The utilization rate of healthcare services was quantified. Factors related to the utilization of healthcare services were determined using logistic regression analysis. Healthcare utilization among participants with knee OA was significantly higher than those without knee OA (p < 0.01). Outpatient usage was higher (p < 0.01) in comparison to inpatient and pharmacotherapy. Being married and having an income were significantly associated with seeking outpatient care (OR: 11.136, 95% CI: 1.73–52.82, p < 0.01) and pharmacotherapy (OR: 10.439, 95% CI: 1.187–91.812, p < 0.05), while females were less likely to utilize inpatient care services (OR: 0.126, 95% CI: 0.021–0.746, p < 0.05). The higher rate of healthcare utilization among older persons with knee OA indicates the increased healthcare needs of this population, who are commonly assumed to suffer from a benign disease.
Promoting Rural Tourism in Inner Mongolia: Attributes, Satisfaction, and Behaviors among Sustainable Tourists
Authors: Che Chen , Koo Bonhak , Wang Jiatong , Ariza-Montes Antonio , Vega-Muñoz Alejandro , Han Heesup
Published: April 2021

With the growth of rural tourism in China, this study aims to determine the destination attributes, tourism satisfaction, and intention of revisiting Inner Mongolia. This study also investigated the mean comparison of tourist satisfaction and revisit intention across domestic tourists’ demographic characteristics. Structural analysis revealed that destination attributes have a positive influence on satisfaction and revisit intention. In addition, the result of the mean difference test showed that satisfaction is significantly different between male and female tourists, and revisit intention significantly varies across the season. Our findings have an excellent directive significance to bring forward rural tourism in Inner Mongolia.
Physical Exercise and Health-Related Quality of Life in Office Workers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nguyen Thi Mai , Nguyen Van Huy , Kim Jin Hee
Published: April 2021

Office workers are at high risk for many chronic diseases, lowering their health-related quality of life (HRQOL). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize the effects of physical exercise on HRQOL in office workers with and without health problems using data obtained from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-experimental, and observational studies. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and several grey literature databases, and identified 26 relevant studies for the synthesis. Overall, physical exercise significantly improved general (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 1.05; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.66 to 1.44) and mental (SMD = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.19 to 0.66) HRQOL in office workers. Compared with healthy office workers, unhealthy office workers experienced greater improvements in general (unhealthy, SMD = 2.76; 95% CI: 1.63 to 3.89; healthy, SMD = 0.23; 95% CI: −0.09 to 0.56) and physical (unhealthy, SMD = 0.38; 95% CI: 0.17 to 0.58; healthy, SMD = −0.20; 95% CI: −0.51 to 0.11) HRQOL. Unsupervised physical exercise significantly improved general and mental HRQOL, while directly supervised physical exercise significantly improved only general HRQOL. Although physical exercise, especially unsupervised physical exercise, should be encouraged to improve HRQOL in office workers, detailed recommendations could not be made because of the diverse exercise types with different intensities. Therefore, further studies are needed to determine the optimal exercise for office workers with different health conditions.
Molecular Analysis of ZNF71 KRAB in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Ye Qing , Mohamed Rehab , Dakhlallah Duaa , Gencheva Marieta , Hu Gangqing , Pearce Martin , Kolluri Siva , Marsh Clay , Eubank Timothy , Ivanov Alexey , Guo Nancy
Published: April 2021

Our previous study found that zinc finger protein 71 (ZNF71) mRNA expression was associated with chemosensitivity and its protein expression was prognostic of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The Krüppel associated box (KRAB) transcriptional repression domain is commonly present in human zinc finger proteins, which are linked to imprinting, silencing of repetitive elements, proliferation, apoptosis, and cancer. This study revealed that ZNF71 KRAB had a significantly higher expression than the ZNF71 KRAB-less isoform in NSCLC tumors (n = 197) and cell lines (n = 117). Patients with higher ZNF71 KRAB expression had a significantly worse survival outcome than patients with lower ZNF71 KRAB expression (log-rank p = 0.04; hazard ratio (HR): 1.686 [1.026, 2.771]), whereas ZNF71 overall and KRAB-less expression levels were not prognostic in the same patient cohort. ZNF71 KRAB expression was associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in both patient tumors and cell lines. ZNF71 KRAB was overexpressed in NSCLC cell lines resistant to docetaxel and paclitaxel treatment compared to chemo-sensitive cell lines, consistent with its association with poor prognosis in patients. Therefore, ZNF71 KRAB isoform is a more effective prognostic factor than ZNF71 overall and KRAB-less expression for NSCLC. Functional analysis using CRISPR-Cas9 and RNA interference (RNAi) screening data indicated that a knockdown/knockout of ZNF71 did not significantly affect NSCLC cell proliferation in vitro.
Acidified Nitrite Contributes to the Antitumor Effect of Cold Atmospheric Plasma on Melanoma Cells
Authors: Zimmermann Tom , Gebhardt Lisa A. , Kreiss Lucas , Schneider Christin , Arndt Stephanie , Karrer Sigrid , Friedrich Oliver , Fischer Michael J. M. , Bosserhoff Anja-Katrin
Published: April 2021

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is partially ionized gas near room temperature with previously reported antitumor effects. Despite extensive research and growing interest in this technology, active components and molecular mechanisms of CAP are not fully understood to date. We used Raman spectroscopy and colorimetric assays to determine elevated nitrite and nitrate levels after treatment with a MiniFlatPlaster CAP device. Previously, we demonstrated CAP-induced acidification. Cellular effects of nitrite and strong extracellular acidification were assessed using live-cell imaging of intracellular Ca2+ levels, cell viability analysis as well as quantification of p21 and DNA damage. We further characterized these observations by analyzing established molecular effects of CAP treatment. A synergistic effect of nitrite and acidification was found, leading to strong cytotoxicity in melanoma cells. Interestingly, protein nitration and membrane damage were absent after treatment with acidified nitrite, thereby challenging their contribution to CAP-induced cytotoxicity. Further, phosphorylation of ERK1/2 was increased after treatment with both acidified nitrite and indirect CAP. This study characterizes the impact of acidified nitrite on melanoma cells and supports the importance of RNS during CAP treatment. Further, it defines and evaluates important molecular mechanisms that are involved in the cancer cell response to CAP.
Substructural Approach for Assessing the Stability of Higher Fullerenes
Authors: Khamatgalimov Ayrat R. , Kovalenko Valeri I.
Published: April 2021

This review describes the most significant published results devoted to the study of the nature of the higher fullerenes stability, revealing of correlations between the structural features of higher fullerene molecules and the possibility of their producing. A formalization of the substructure approach to assessing the stability of higher fullerenes is proposed, which is based on a detailed analysis of the main structural features of fullerene molecules. The developed substructure approach, together with the stability of the substructures constituting the fullerene molecule, helps to understand deeper the features of the electronic structure of fullerenes.
Molecular Dynamics—From Small Molecules to Macromolecules
Authors: Nam Ki Hyun
Published: April 2021

All molecular systems, from small molecules to macromolecules, exhibit specific characteristics for a specific environment and time. In order to gain an accurate understanding of the functions of all types of molecules, studies of their structure and dynamics are essential. Through dynamic studies, using techniques such as spectroscopy, structure determination, and computer analysis, it is possible to collect functional information on molecules at specific times and in specific environments. Such information not only reveals the properties and mechanisms of action of molecules but also provides insights that can be applied to various industries, such as the development of new materials and drugs. Herein, I discuss the importance of molecular dynamics studies, present the time scale of molecular motion, and review techniques for analyzing molecular dynamics.
Characterization of Type I Interferon-Associated Chemokines and Cytokines in Lacrimal Glands of Nonobese Diabetic Mice
Authors: Allred Merri-Grace , Chimenti Michael S. , Ciecko Ashley E. , Chen Yi-Guang , Lieberman Scott M.
Published: April 2021

Type I interferons (IFNs) are required for spontaneous lacrimal gland inflammation in the nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse model of Sjögren’s disease, but the consequences of type I IFN signaling are not well-defined. Here, we use RNA sequencing to define cytokine and chemokine genes upregulated in lacrimal glands of NOD mice in a type I IFN-dependent manner. Interleukin (IL)-21 was the highest differentially expressed cytokine gene, and Il21 knockout NOD mice were relatively protected from lacrimal gland inflammation. We defined a set of chemokines upregulated early in disease including Cxcl9 and Cxcl10, which share a receptor, CXCR3. CXCR3+ T cells were enriched in lacrimal glands with a dominant proportion of CXCR3+ regulatory T cells. Together these data define the early cytokine and chemokine signals associated with type I IFN-signaling in the development of lacrimal gland inflammation in NOD mice providing insight into the role of type I IFN in autoimmunity development.
Prevalence of Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder in Outpatients with Schizophrenia and Its Association with Psychopathological Characteristics and Psychosocial Functioning
Authors: Matsui Kentaro , Inada Ken , Kuriyama Kenichi , Yoshiike Takuya , Nagao Kentaro , Oshibuchi Hidehiro , Akaho Rie , Nishimura Katsuji
Published: April 2021

The prevalence of circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder (CRSWD) among patients with schizophrenia is not clear. The effect of comorbid CRSWD on such patients has also not been fully evaluated yet. Outpatients with schizophrenia in the maintenance phase who visited Tokyo Women’s Medical University Hospital between April 2018 and March 2019 participated in this study. The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), the Clinical Global Impressions–Severity Illness Scale (CGI-S), Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule II, Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) were administered, and the patient responses with and without CRSWD were compared. Of the 105 patients with schizophrenia, 19 (18.1%) had CRSWD. There were trends toward higher BPRS and lower GAF scores in the CRSWD group than in the non-CRSWD group, although these did not reach statistical significance following a false discovery rate correction. Among the BPRS subitems, the anxiety scores were significantly higher in the CRSWD group than in the non-CRSWD group (p < 0.01). CRSWD was highly prevalent among patients with schizophrenia in the maintenance phase. Comorbidities of CRSWD may affect psychopathological characteristics and psychosocial functioning.
SEM Evaluation of Endosequence BC Sealer Hiflow in Different Environmental Conditions
Authors: Donfrancesco Orlando , Del Giudice Andrea , Zanza Alessio , Relucenti Michela , Petracchiola Stefano , Gambarini Gianluca , Testarelli Luca , Seracchiani Marco
Published: April 2021

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the setting and sealant ability of two different bioceramic sealers in two different environmental conditions: humid and wet environment. Ex vivo root canal treatment was performed on 24 freshly extracted teeth. Irrigation was performed with Niclor NaOCl 5% and EDTA 17%, then obturated with a bioceramic sealer in the two different environmental conditions listed above. Furthermore, scanning electron microscope (SEM) investigation was performed to verify the presence of gaps and the setting ability of the two sealers in two different environmental conditions was evaluated. While presence of gaps was found mainly in the wet specimens, on the other hand, regarding the setting ability, there is no statistically significant difference between the two different samples. Therefore, even if humid conditions represent the gold standard in terms of lower gaps dimension, since there is no methodology standardizing the drying procedure of the root canal, it is compulsory to investigate the sealing ability of the bioceramic sealers, even in wet conditions. Thanks to the findings shown in the present study, it is demonstrated that even in wet conditions the ability of the sealer to set does not change and such clinical situation could affect the bioceramic sealer protocol.
A Spatiotemporal Convolutional Gated Recurrent Unit Network for Mean Wave Period Field Forecasting
Authors: Yu Ting , Wang Jichao
Published: April 2021

Mean wave period (MWP) is one of the key parameters affecting the design of marine facilities. Currently, there are two main methods, numerical and data-driven methods, for forecasting wave parameters, of which the latter are widely used. However, few studies have focused on MWP forecasting, and even fewer have investigated it with spatial and temporal information. In this study, correlations between ocean dynamic parameters are explored to obtain appropriate input features, significant wave height (SWH) and MWP. Subsequently, a data-driven approach, the convolution gated recurrent unit (Conv-GRU) model with spatiotemporal characteristics, is utilized to field forecast MWP with 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24-h lead times in the South China Sea. Six points at different locations and six consecutive moments at every 12-h intervals are selected to study the forecasting ability of the proposed model. The Conv-GRU model has a better performance than the single gated recurrent unit (GRU) model in terms of root mean square error (RMSE), the scattering index (SI), Bias, and the Pearson’s correlation coefficient (R). With the lead time increasing, the forecast effect shows a decreasing trend, specifically, the experiment displays a relatively smooth forecast curve and presents a great advantage in the short-term forecast of the MWP field in the Conv-GRU model, where the RMSE is 0.121 m for 1-h lead time.
Fungi and Fungal Metabolites for the Improvement of Human and Animal Nutrition and Health
Authors: Dufossé Laurent , Fouillaud Mireille , Caro Yanis
Published: April 2021

Fungi: 1, 2, 3, [...]
Response of Gross Mineralization and Nitrification Rates to Banana Cultivation Sites Converted from Natural Forest in Subtropical China
Authors: Qin Xinghua , Yang Cheng , Yang Lin , Ma Erdeng , Meng Lei , Zhu Tongbin
Published: April 2021

Evaluations of gross mineralization (MNorg) and nitrification (ONH4) can be used to evaluate the supply capacity of inorganic N, which is crucial in determining appropriate N fertilizer application. However, the relevant research for banana plantations to date is limited. In this study, natural forest and banana plantations with different cultivation ages (3, 7, 10, and 22 y) were chosen in a subtropical region, and the 15N dilution technique was used to determine the gross MNorg and ONH4 rates. The objective was to evaluate the effect of the conversion of natural forests to banana plantations on inorganic N supply capacity (MNorg + ONH4) and other relevant factors. Compared to other natural forests in tropical and subtropical regions reported on by previous studies, the natural forest in this study was characterized by a relatively low MNorg rate and a high ONH4 rate in the soil, resulting in the presence of inorganic N dominated by nitrate. Compared to the natural forest, 3 y banana cultivation increased the MNorg and ONH4 rates and inorganic N availability in the soil, but these rates were significantly reduced with prolonged banana cultivation. Furthermore, the mean residence times of ammonium and nitrate were shorter in the 3 y than in the 7, 10, and 22 y banana plantations, indicating a reduced turnover of ammonium and nitrate in soil subjected to long-term banana cultivation. In addition, the conversion of natural forest to banana plantation reduced the soil organic carbon (SOC), total N and calcium concentrations, as well as water holding capacity (WHC), cation exchangeable capacity (CEC), and pH, more obviously in soils subjected to long-term banana cultivation. The MNorg and ONH4 rates were significantly and positively related to the SOC and TN concentrations, as well as the WHC and CEC, suggesting that the decline in soil quality after long-term banana cultivation could significantly inhibit MNorg and ONH4 rates, thus reducing inorganic N supply and turnover. Increasing the amount of soil organic matter may be an effective measure for stimulating N cycling for long-term banana cultivation.
Simple and Precise Description of the Transformation Kinetics and Final Structure of Dual Phase Steels
Authors: Kohout Jan
Published: April 2021

The kinetics of diffusion-dependent phase transformations (including austenitisation of ferrite in dual steels or ferritic nodular cast irons) is very often described by the Johnson–Mehl–Avrami–Kolmogorov (JMAK) equation. This description is not complete when the conversion is only partial due to insufficient overheating, as the equilibrium fraction of ferrite transformed into austenite cannot be determined directly from the JMAK equation. Experimental kinetic curves of partial austenitisation at various temperatures can be fitted using the JMAK equation, but the equilibrium fraction of the newly formed phase for each temperature has to be calculated as a regression parameter. In addition, the temperature dependence of the kinetic exponent in the JMAK equation is quite complicated and cannot be expressed by a simple general function. On the contrary, the equation of autoinhibition used for the description of austenitisation kinetics in present work directly gives the equilibrium fraction at partial conversion. It describes transformation kinetics at various temperatures independently of whether the conversion is complete or partial. Rate constants of the equation of autoinhibition depend on temperature according to the Arrhenius equation. In addition, the equation of autoinhibition has no weakness as the JMAK equation has, which consists in questionable temperature dependence of kinetic exponent.
Multidimensional Ln-Aminophthalate Photoluminescent Coordination Polymers
Authors: Queirós Carla , Sun Chen , Silva Ana M. G. , de Castro Baltazar , Cabanillas-Gonzalez Juan , Cunha-Silva Luís
Published: April 2021

The development of straightforward reproducible methods for the preparation of new photoluminescent coordination polymers (CPs) is an important goal in luminescence and chemical sensing fields. Isophthalic acid derivatives have been reported for a wide range of applications, and in addition to their relatively low cost, have encouraged its use in the preparation of novel lanthanide-based coordination polymers (LnCPs). Considering that the photoluminescent properties of these CPs are highly dependent on the existence of water molecules in the crystal structure, our research efforts are now focused on the preparation of CP with the lowest water content possible, while considering a green chemistry approach. One- and two-dimensional (1D and 2D) LnCPs were prepared from 5-aminoisophthalic acid and Sm3+/Tb3+ using hydrothermal and/or microwave-assisted synthesis. The unprecedented LnCPs were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCRXD), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and their photoluminescence (PL) properties were studied in the solid state, at room temperature, using the CPs as powders and encapsulated in poly(methyl methacrylate (PMMA) films, envisaging the potential preparation of devices for sensing. The materials revealed interesting PL properties that depend on the dimensionality, metal ion, co-ligand used and water content.
Characterization of Hybrid Materials Prepared by Sol-Gel Method for Biomedical Implementations. A Critical Review
Authors: Catauro Michelina , Ciprioti Stefano Vecchio
Published: April 2021

The interaction between tissues and biomaterials (BM) has the purpose of improving and replacing anatomical parts of the human body, avoiding the occurrence of adverse reactions in the host organism. Unfortunately, the early failure of implants cannot be currently avoided, since neither a good mixture of mechanical and chemical characteristics of materials nor their biocompatibility has been yet achieved. Bioactive glasses are recognized to be a fine class of bioactive substances for good repair and replacement. BM interact with living bones through the formation of a hydroxyapatite surface layer that is analogous to bones. Bioglasses’ composition noticeably affects their biological properties, as does the synthesis method, with the best one being the versatile sol-gel technique, which includes the change of scheme from a ‘sol’ fluid into a ‘gel’. This process is widely used to prepare many materials for biomedical implants (e.g., hip and knee prostheses, heart valves, and ceramic, glassy and hybrid materials to serve as carriers for drug release). Nanoparticles prepared by the sol-gel method are interesting systems for biomedical implementations, and particularly useful for cancer therapy. This review provides many examples concerning the synthesis and characterization of the above-mentioned materials either taken from literature and from recently prepared zirconia/polyethylene glycol (PEG) hybrids, and the corresponding results are extensively discussed.
Influence of Silica-Aerogel on Mechanical Characteristics of Polyurethane-Based Composites: Thermal Conductivity and Strength
Authors: Kim Jeong-Hyeon , Ahn Jae-Hyeok , Kim Jeong-Dae , Lee Dong-Ha , Kim Seul-Kee , Lee Jae-Myung
Published: April 2021

Polyurethane foam (PUF) has generally been used in liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier cargo containment systems (CCSs) owing to its excellent mechanical and thermal properties over a wide range of temperatures. An LNG CCS must be designed to withstand extreme environmental conditions. However, as the insulation material for LNGC CCSs, PUF has two major limitations: its strength and thermal conductivity. In the present study, PUFs were synthesized with various weight percentages of porous silica aerogel to reinforce the characteristics of PUF used in LNG carrier insulation systems. To evaluate the mechanical strength of the PUF-silica aerogel composites considering LNG loading/unloading environmental conditions, compressive tests were conducted at room temperature (20 °C) and a cryogenic temperature (−163 °C). In addition, the thermal insulation performance and cellular structure were identified to analyze the effects of silica aerogels on cell morphology. The cell morphology of PUF-silica aerogel composites was relatively homogeneous, and the cell shape remained closed at 1 wt.% in comparison to the other concentrations. As a result, the mechanical and thermal properties were significantly improved by the addition of 1 wt.% silica aerogel to the PUF. The mechanical properties were reduced by increasing the silica aerogel content to 3 wt.% and 5 wt.%, mainly because of the pores generated on the surface of the composites.
Effects of 3D Printing-Line Directions for Stretchable Sensor Performances
Authors: Vu Chi Cuong , Nguyen Thanh Tai , Kim Sangun , Kim Jooyong
Published: April 2021

Health monitoring sensors that are attached to clothing are a new trend of the times, especially stretchable sensors for human motion measurements or biological markers. However, price, durability, and performance always are major problems to be addressed and three-dimensional (3D) printing combined with conductive flexible materials (thermoplastic polyurethane) can be an optimal solution. Herein, we evaluate the effects of 3D printing-line directions (45°, 90°, 180°) on the sensor performances. Using fused filament fabrication (FDM) technology, the sensors are created with different print styles for specific purposes. We also discuss some main issues of the stretch sensors from Carbon Nanotube/Thermoplastic Polyurethane (CNT/TPU) and FDM. Our sensor achieves outstanding stability (10,000 cycles) and reliability, which are verified through repeated measurements. Its capability is demonstrated in a real application when detecting finger motion by a sensor-integrated into gloves. This paper is expected to bring contribution to the development of flexible conductive materials—based on 3D printing.
Post Fire Residual Strength of the Wall-Slab Using Siliceous Concrete
Authors: Lee Su-Hyeon , Choi Byong-Jeong
Published: April 2021

It is very important to understand the residual performance of a structure for repair, retrofit, and reuse of a building after a fire. In this study, an experiment is conducted on the residual performance of real-scale siliceous aggregates-based reinforced concrete (RC) wall-slab connection (WSC) after the fire, using the simple calculation method (SCM) of standards (Eurocode, ACI, and NIST) for comparison and analysis. A description of the WSC specimen and detailed methods for the experiment are introduced. The fire test is conducted according to the fire scenario by dividing it into one-sided and two-sided heating based on the wall. In the post-fire residual performance test, the load–displacement and moment-deflection angle relationship according to the fire time are derived and discussed. In addition, the residual mechanical properties after the fire are derived for the 35 MPa siliceous concrete used in the wall-slab specimen. The load and moment, derived using SCM, are compared with the experimental results. Our results show that the one-sided heating test result is close to that of Eurocode’s SCM, and the two-sided heating test result is close to that of ACI (NIST)’s SCM. This study provides a database on the residual strength through a real-scale fire test and standard comparison.
Effects of Deposition Strategy and Preheating Temperature on Thermo-Mechanical Characteristics of Inconel 718 Super-Alloy Deposited on AISI 1045 Substrate Using a DED Process
Authors: Kim Ho , Lee Kwang-Kyu , Ahn Dong-Gyu , Lee Hyub
Published: April 2021

Thermomechanical characteristics are highly dependent on the deposition strategy of the directed energy deposition (DED) process, including the deposition path, the interpass time, the deposition volume, etc., as well as the preheating condition of the substrate. This paper aims to investigate the effects of the deposition strategy and the preheating temperature on thermomechanical characteristics of Inconel 718 super-alloy deposited on an AISI 1045 substrate using a DED process via finite element analyses (FEAs). FE models for different deposition strategies and preheating temperatures are created to examine the thermomechanical behavior. Sixteen deposition strategies are adopted to perform FEAs. The heat sink coefficient is estimated from a comparison of temperature histories of experiments and those of FEAs to obtain appropriate FE models. The influence of deposition strategies on residual stress distributions in the designed model for a small volume deposition is examined to determine feasible deposition strategies. In addition, the effects of the deposition strategy and the preheating temperature on residual stress distributions of the designed part for large volume deposition are investigated to predict a suitable deposition strategy of the DED head and appropriate preheating temperature of the substrate.