Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Breastfeeding importance and its therapeutic potential against SARS‐CoV‐2

During postnatal development, colostrum and breastmilk are sequentially the first sources of nutrition with protein components and bioactive molecules that confer protection and immunostimulatory function to the gut. Caseins, whey proteins, secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), mucins, tryptophan, and growth factors are among milk‐borne elements that are directly important in the control of mucosa development and protection. Consequently, breastfeeding is associated with the low incidence of gastrointestinal inflammation and with the decrease in respiratory diseases during postnatal period. The novel coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) binds to angiotensin II‐converting enzyme (ACE2) on the cell membrane, allowing virus entrance, replication, and host commitment. ACE2 is expressed by different cell types, which include ciliated cells in the lungs and enterocytes in the intestine. Such cells are highly active in metabolism, as they internalize molecules to be processed and used by the organism. The disruption of ACE2 impairs leads to intestinal inflammation and decreased synthesis of serotonin, affecting motility. By reviewing the effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 in the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts in infants, and gut responses to breastfeeding interruption, we suggest that it is important to maintain breastfeeding during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, as it might be essential to protect newborns from gastrointestinal‐associated disorders and relieve disease symptoms.
Innate cell microenvironments in lymph nodes shape the generation of T cell responses during type I inflammation

Distinct myeloid cell microenvironments in LNs promote divergent T cell programming during type I inflammation. Teamwork for T cells The location and interaction of innate immune cells in lymph nodes (LNs) contributes to the induction of T cell responses, yet the exact cells that contribute are unclear. Using advanced imaging techniques to characterize the spatial arrangement of innate and adaptive immune cells during TLR agonist-induced inflammation, Leal et al. show that LN-resident dendritic cells (DCs) and inflammatory monocytes cooperate to induce T cell responses. LN-resident DCs migrate to the T cell zone (TZ) in a CCR7-dependent manner and present antigen to T cells. Circulating monocytes enter the LN via high endothelial venules and become spatially polarized in the TZ, consequently inducing distinct inflammatory microenvironments and effector T cell subsets. Thus, DCs and monocytes in the LN TZ work together to induce T cell responses. Microanatomical organization of innate immune cells within lymph nodes (LNs) is critical for the generation of adaptive responses. In particular, steady-state LN-resident dendritic cells (Res cDCs) are strategically localized to intercept lymph-draining antigens. Whether myeloid cell organization changes during inflammation and how that might affect the generation of immune responses are unknown. Here, we report that during type I, but not type II, inflammation after adjuvant immunization or viral infection, antigen-presenting Res cDCs undergo CCR7-dependent intranodal repositioning from the LN periphery into the T cell zone (TZ) to elicit T cell priming. Concurrently, inflammatory monocytes infiltrate the LNs via local blood vessels, enter the TZ, and cooperate with Res cDCs by providing polarizing cytokines to optimize T cell effector differentiation. Monocyte infiltration is nonuniform across LNs, generating distinct microenvironments with varied local innate cell composition. These spatial microdomains are associated with divergent early T cell effector programming, indicating that innate microenvironments within LNs play a critical role in regulating the quality and heterogeneity of T cell responses. Together, our findings reveal that dynamic modulation of innate cell microenvironments during type I inflammation leads to optimized generation of adaptive immune responses to vaccines and infections.
Modelling of simultaneous methanogenesis and denitrification in an upflow packed-bed biofilm reactor

The performance of an upflow packed-bed biofilm reactor was investigated by considering simultaneous methanogenesis and denitrification reactions under step and sinusoidal variations of feed concentration and temperature. For simultaneous step inputs of 20 mg dm -3 of NO 3 - -N and 60 mg dm -3 of methanol, the proposed model shows that major conversion of both the substrates takes place in the first half of the reactor. However, when the inlet concentration of methanol is subjected to sinusoidal variation, while that of NO 3 - -N is maintained stepwise, the exit concentration of both methanol and NOj 3 - -N follow a sinusoidal response. On the other hand, when the inputs are reversed (methanol stepwise and NO 3 - -N sinusoidal), the response exhibits similar behaviour. For sinusoidal variation of feed temperature the exit concentration profiles of both substrates also follow a sinusoidal pattern. For methanol, the mean steady state conversion under sinusoidal variation is higher than the corresponding steady state concentration when feed temperature is constant at 30°C. The model predictions are in good agreement with the experimental data available in the literature.
Growth and ion uptake in maize plants exposed to Pb, Cd and Ni depend on NO3-/NH4+ ratio.

Maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings (hybride ZP 330) were grown in hydropone culture on a standard nutrient solution containing 7.5 mM N. Nitrogen was applied in two forms: 1) as NO3 and 2) as NO3/NH4 (2:1). Aft er two days in the culture, the plants were exposed to heavy metals and the two treatments were further divided into four groups: a) control; b) 0.5 mM Pb; c) 0.5 mM Cd; d) 0.5 mM Ni. Aft er three days of exposure, the following parameters were determined in roots: heavy metal concentration, root length, root weight, the concentrations of proline, soluble proteins, K, Ca and Mg. Th e results show that almost all the determined parameters depend on nitrogen form. Lead and Cd accumulation were lower under NO3 treatment, while Ni accumulation was lower under NO3/NH4 treatment. Th e decrease of the root length depended on heavy metal concentration in roots, while root weight decrease depended only on N form. Soluble protein and K concentrations changed in dependence of both N form and heavy metal type. Proline concentration increased signifi cantly in the presence of each metal under NO3 treatment, while under NO3/NH4 treatment the change was negligible except in the plants exposed to Ni. Cadmium and Ni induced a signifi cant decrease of Ca and Mg concentrations, which was more pronounced under NO3/NH4 treatment in both cases. Lead induced a decrease of Mg concentration under NO3 treatment, accompanied with Ca concentration increase, and a decrease of Ca concentration accompanied with Mg concentration increase under NO3/NH4 treatment. Such results showed, apart from diff erent maize responses to diff erent metals, a wide potential for the modifi cation of heavy metal impact by ionic form of nitrogen nutrition.
What is the Pathogenic CAG Expansion Length in Huntington’s Disease?

Huntington’s disease (HD) (OMIM 143100) is caused by an expanded CAG repeat tract in the HTT gene. The inherited CAG length is known to expand further in somatic and germline cells in HD subjects. Age at onset of the disease is inversely correlated with the inherited CAG length, but is further modulated by a series of genetic modifiers which are most likely to act on the CAG repeat in HTT that permit it to further expand. Longer repeats are more prone to expansions, and this expansion is age dependent and tissue-specific. Given that the inherited tract expands through life and most subjects develop disease in mid-life, this implies that in cells that degenerate, the CAG length is likely to be longer than the inherited length. These findings suggest two thresholds— the inherited CAG length which permits further expansion, and the intracellular pathogenic threshold, above which cells become dysfunctional and die. This two-step mechanism has been previously proposed and modelled mathematically to give an intracellular pathogenic threshold at a tract length of 115 CAG (95% confidence intervals 70– 165 CAG). Empirically, the intracellular pathogenic threshold is difficult to determine. Clues from studies of people and models of HD, and from other diseases caused by expanded repeat tracts, place this threshold between 60– 100 CAG, most likely towards the upper part of that range. We assess this evidence and discuss how the intracellular pathogenic threshold in manifest disease might be better determined. Knowing the cellular pathogenic threshold would be informative for both understanding the mechanism in HD and deploying treatments.
The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP): A Quantitative Nosology Based on Consensus of Evidence.

Traditional diagnostic systems went beyond empirical evidence on the structure of mental health. Consequently, these diagnoses do not depict psychopathology accurately, and their validity in research and utility in clinical practice are therefore limited. The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) consortium proposed a model based on structural evidence. It addresses problems of diagnostic heterogeneity, comorbidity, and unreliability. We review the HiTOP model, supporting evidence, and conceptualization of psychopathology in this hierarchical dimensional framework. The system is not yet comprehensive, and we describe the processes for improving and expanding it. We summarize data on the ability of HiTOP to predict and explain etiology (genetic, environmental, and neurobiological), risk factors, outcomes, and treatment response. We describe progress in the development of HiTOP-based measures and in clinical implementation of the system. Finally, we review outstanding challenges and the research agenda. HiTOP is of practical utility already, and its ongoing development will produce a transformative map of psychopathology. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, Volume 17 is May 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews. org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
Haloferax mediterranei Halolysin R4 Confers Antagonistic and Defensive Capabilities

This study shows that halolysin R4 from Haloferax mediterranei provides its host antagonistic and defensive activities against other haloarchaea, which expands our knowledge of the traditional function of haloarchaeal extracellular proteases. Haloarchaeal extracellular serine proteases have been previously discussed as growth phase-dependent proteins, whereas our study reports constitutive expression of halolysin R4. ABSTRACT Halolysins, which are subtilisin-like serine proteases of haloarchaea, are usually secreted into the extracellular matrix via the twin-arginine translocation pathway. A small number of activated molecules can greatly affect cell growth owing to their proteolytic activity. It is, however, unclear as to whether this proteolysis-based growth inhibition by halolysins conveys antagonistic or defensive effects against other resident and potentially competitive microorganisms. Here, we report that halolysin R4 (HlyR4), encoded by the hlyR4 gene, is the key enzyme in the initial steps of extracellular protein utilization in Haloferax mediterranei (Hfx. mediterranei). HlyR4 shows significant antagonistic activity against other haloarchaeal strains. Deletion of hlyR4 completely halts the inhibition activity of Hfx. mediterranei toward other haloarchaea, while correspondingly, complementation of hlyR4 almost completely restores the inhibition activity. Furthermore, Hfx. mediterranei strains containing hlyR4 showed a certain amount of resistance to halocins and halolysins in a hypersaline environment, and this function of hlyR4 is reproducible in Haloarcula hispanica. The versatility of HlyR4 enables its encoding organism to outcompete other haloarchaea living in the same hypersaline environment. Intriguingly, unlike the growth phase-dependent halolysins SptA and Nep, it is likely that HlyR4 may be secreted independently of growth phase. This study provides a new peptide antibiotic candidate in haloarchaea, as well as new insight into a better understanding of the ecological roles of halolysins. IMPORTANCE This study shows that halolysin R4 from Haloferax mediterranei provides its host antagonistic and defensive activities against other haloarchaea, which expands our knowledge of the traditional function of haloarchaeal extracellular proteases. Haloarchaeal extracellular serine proteases have been previously discussed as growth phase-dependent proteins, whereas our study reports constitutive expression of halolysin R4. This work also clearly reveals a hidden diversity of extracellular proteases from haloarchaea. Studies on multifunctional halolysins reveal that they play an important ecological role in shaping microbial community composition and provide a new perspective toward understanding the intricate interactions between haloarchaeal cells in hypersaline environments. HlyR4 can lyse competing cells living in the same environment, and the cell debris may probably be utilized as nutrients, which may constitute an important part of nutrient cycling in extremely hypersaline environments.
Electrospinning process and applications of electrospun fibers

An electric field is used to create a charged jet of polymer solution. As this jet travels in air, the solvent evaporates, leaving behind a charged fiber that can be electrically deflected or collected on a metal screen. Fibers with a variety of cross-sectional shapes and sizes were produced from different polymers. These fibers had diameters in the range of 0.05 to 5 microns. The authors describe the electrospinning process, the processing conditions, fiber morphology, and some possible uses of electrospun fibers. <<ETX>>
Elevated Concentrations of Metal(loids) in Seaweed and the Concomitant Exposure to Humans

While the consumption of seaweed and seaweed-based products is very common amongst East Asian nations, forming a notable component of the daily diet, relatively very few studies have concerned the concentrations of heavy metals in these together with potential effects on human health. The present study analyses the concentrations of 17 elements in locally resourced seaweed, also assessing potential noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic risks. The samples were ground, homogenized, and quantified using the ICP-OES technique. It has been found that the essential elements K, Ca, Mg, Zn, and Na typically show concentrations somewhat greater than a number of potentially toxic metals, in particular, Cd, Pb, Ag, and As, with exceptions being Ni, Cr-VI, and Si. Statistical analysis indicates all of the latter to have similar origin, with increased concentration of these metals within the marine ecosystem. While the daily estimated intake of most metals is seen to be within the daily dietary allowance level recommended by various international organizations, the noncarcinogenic risk shows a value greater than unity, estimated via the hazard quotient. This indicates a potential for adverse effects to health arising from consumption of the sampled seaweed. The carcinogenic risk resulting from nonessential elements shows values greater than the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA) reference limit of 10−4. Considering the nonbiodegradability of heavy metals and metalloids and their potential accumulation in seaweed, there is need for critical examination of metal levels in the seaweeds obtained from the present study locations, together with the introduction of practices of removal of heavy metals via bio-adsorbent techniques.
NephroTalk Multimodal Conservative Care Curriculum for Nephrology Fellows

Conservative care, a comprehensive treatment path for advanced kidney disease most suitable for individuals unlikely to benefit from dialysis, is underutilized in the United States. One reason is an absence of robust education about this approach and how to discuss it with potential candidates. To address this need, we developed a multimodal conservative care curriculum for nephrology fellows. This curriculum consists of four online modules that address essential concepts and communication skills related to conservative care. It is followed by an in-person, interactive, “flipped classroom” session facilitated by designated nephrology educators at participating Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education nephrology training programs. Curriculum effect was assessed using surveys completed by participating fellows immediately before and following the curriculum and for participating nephrology educators following flipped classroom teaching; 148 nephrology trainees from 19 programs participated, with 108 completing both pre- and postcurriculum surveys. Mean self-reported preparedness (measured on a five-point Likert scale) increased significantly for all ten concepts taught in the curriculum. The mean correct score on eight knowledge questions increased from 69% to 82% following the curriculum (P<0.001). Fellows rated the curriculum highly and reported that they plan to practice skills learned. For the 19 nephrology program educators, the mean perceived preparedness to teach all curriculum domains increased after, compared with before, facilitating the flipped classroom, reaching significance for seven of the ten concepts measured. Data suggest that fellows' participation in a multimodal curriculum increased knowledge and preparation for fundamental conservative care concepts and communication skills. Fellows rated the curriculum highly. Educator participation appears to have increased preparedness for teaching the curriculum concepts, making it likely that future education in conservative care will become more widespread. Herein, we describe the curriculum content, which we have made publicly available in order to encourage broader implementation, and its effect on participating fellows and the nephrology educators who facilitated it.
Predictors of Symptom Increase in Subsyndromal PTSD Among Previously Deployed Military Personnel

ABSTRACT Introduction Subsyndromal PTSD (sub-PTSD) is associated with functional impairment and increased risk for full PTSD. This study examined factors associated with progression from sub-PTSD to full PTSD symptomatology among previously deployed military veterans. Materials and Methods Data were drawn from a longitudinal survey of Navy and Marine Corps personnel leaving military service between 2007 and 2010 administered immediately before separation (baseline) and ~1 year later (follow-up). Survey measures assessed PTSD symptoms at both times; the baseline survey also assessed potential predictors of symptom change over time. Logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of progression from sub-PTSD to full PTSD status. Results Compared to those with no or few PTSD symptoms at baseline, individuals with sub-PTSD were almost three times more likely to exhibit full PTSD symptomatology at follow-up. Risk factors for symptom increase among those with sub-PTSD included moderate or high levels of combat exposure and utilization of fewer positive coping behaviors. Use of prescribed psychotropic medication was protective against symptom increase. Conclusion This study identified several predictors of symptom increase in military veterans with sub-PTSD. Interventions targeting modifiable risk factors for symptom escalation, including behavioral and pharmacological treatments, may reduce rates of new-onset PTSD in this population.
Electron spin resonance observations of oxygen deficient silicon atoms in the interfacial layer of hafnium oxide based metal-oxide-silicon structures

Conventional electron spin resonance measurements indicate gross processing dependent differences in the densities of paramagnetic oxygen deficient silicon sites, E′ centers, in the interfacial layer of unstressed hafnium oxide based metal-oxide-silicon structures. (E′ centers are not usually observed in unstressed oxides.) The volume densities of these centers can be quite high (∼1×1019cm−3). Electrically detected magnetic resonance measurements suggest that related oxygen deficient sites may significantly degrade device performance and reliability.
Anticancer activity of the plant flavonoid luteolin against preclinical models of various cancers and insights on different signalling mechanisms modulated

Various signaling mechanisms contribute significantly to the development of multiple cancers. Small molecules with the potential of influencing a wide variety of molecular targets may prove as broad‐spectrum anticancer agents. Flavonoids from plant sources are strongly emerging as promising antineoplastic molecules because of their ability to hamper different cancer‐driving signaling pathways. Further, these flavonoids offer an additional benefit due to their congenital antioxidant potential. This paper discusses the anticancer activity of luteolin against a number of cancers including leukemias, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, melanoma, liver, gastric, and brain cancer. Strong emphasis has been laid on key molecular mechanisms impacted by luteolin for exerting antineoplastic effect. Importantly, certain epigenetic targets like histone deacetylases (HDACs), DNA methylation regulator enzymes that are influenced by this befitting flavone for inducing cytotoxicity in certain preclinical cancer models, have also been made the part of this review. Additionally, the significantly improved therapeutic benefits of luteolin in combination with other therapeutics are comprehensively discussed. The current loopholes in luteolin research are also considered, which may open novel routes for further valuable studies on this promising flavone.
Caracterização físico-química de queijo prato por espectroscopia no infravermelho e regressão de mínimos quadrados parciais

In this work an analytical methodology for the determination of relevant physicochemical parameters of prato cheese is reported, using infrared spectroscopy (DRIFT) and partial least squares regression (PLS). Several multivariate models were developed, using different spectral regions and preprocessing routines. In general, good precision and accuracy was observed for all studied parameters (fat, protein, moisture, total solids, ashes and pH) with standard deviations comparable with those provided by the conventional methodologies. The implantation of this multivariate routine involves significant analytical advantages, including reduction of cost and time of analysis, minimization of human errors, and elimination of chemical residues.
Event-Based Design of Finite-Time Adaptive Control of Uncertain Nonlinear Systems

The problem of finite-time adaptive tracking control against event-trigger error is investigated in this article for a type of uncertain nonlinear systems. By fusing the techniques of command filter backstepping technical and event-triggered control (ETC), an adaptive event-triggered design method is proposed to construct the controller, under which the effect of event-triggered error can be compensated completely. Moreover, the proposed controller can increase robustness against uncertainties and event error in the backstepping design framework. In particular, we establish the finite-time convergence condition under which the tracking error asymptotically converges to zero in finite time with the aid of a scaling function. Detailed and rigorous stability proofs are given by making use of the improved finite time stability criterion. Two simulation examples are provided to exhibit the validity of the designed adaptive ETC approach.