bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroserpin Inclusion Bodies in a FENIB Yeast Model
Authors: Vapore Valentina , Mazzaglia Corrado , Sibilia Diego , Del Vecchio Mara , Fruhmann Gernot , Valenti Marta , Miranda Elena , Rinaldi Teresa , Winderickx Joris , Mazzoni Cristina
Published: July 2021

FENIB (familial encephalopathy with neuroserpin inclusion bodies) is a human monogenic disease caused by point mutations in the SERPINI1 gene, characterized by the intracellular deposition of polymers of neuroserpin (NS), which leads to proteotoxicity and cell death. Despite the different cell and animal models developed thus far, the exact mechanism of cell toxicity elicited by NS polymers remains unclear. Here, we report that human wild-type NS and the polymerogenic variant G392E NS form protein aggregates mainly localized within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) when expressed in the yeast S. cerevisiae. The expression of NS in yeast delayed the exit from the lag phase, suggesting that NS inclusions cause cellular stress. The cells also showed a higher resistance following mild oxidative stress treatments when compared to control cells. Furthermore, the expression of NS in a pro-apoptotic mutant strain-induced cell death during aging. Overall, these data recapitulate phenotypes observed in mammalian cells, thereby validating S. cerevisiae as a model for FENIB.
Genomic Analysis of Cutibacterium acnes Strains Isolated from Prosthetic Joint Infections
Authors: Salar-Vidal Llanos , Achermann Yvonne , Aguilera-Correa John-Jairo , Poehlein Anja , Esteban Jaime , Brüggemann Holger ,   on behalf of the ESCMID Study Group for Implant-Associated Infections (ESGIAI)
Published: July 2021

Cutibacterium acnes is a common cause of prosthetic joint infections (PJIs). The C. acnes population can be divided into six main phylotypes (IA1, IA2, IB, IC, II and III) that are associated with different clinical conditions and normal skin. A single-locus sequence typing (SLST) scheme can distinguish ten main SLST types: A-E (all IA1), F (IA2), G (IC), H (IB), K (II), L (III). We genome-sequenced and compared 16 strains of C. acnes isolated from healthy skin (n = 4) and PJIs (n = 12), including six PJI cases with a good outcome (four shoulder PJIs, one hip PJI, one knee PJI) and six with infection relapse (three shoulder PJIs, three hip PJIs). The sequenced strains belonged to four different phylotypes (IA1, IA2, IB and II) and seven different SLST types. All five type IB strains (all SLST type H1) were PJI isolates (three hip PJIs, two shoulder PJIs), and four of these caused infection relapse (three hip PJIs, one shoulder PJI). Isolates from PJI cases with a good outcome belonged to three different phylotypes (IA, IB, II). Interestingly, four strains (three strains from PJI cases with good outcome and one strain from healthy skin) contained a linear plasmid; these strains belonged to different SLST types (A1, C1, F4, H1) and were isolated in three different hospitals. This study suggests that type IB strains have the potential to cause infection relapse, in particular regarding hip PJIs. Moreover, our study revealed that strains belonging to the same SLST type can differ in their accessory genome in different geographic locations, indicative of microevolution.
In Vitro Reduction of Interleukin-8 Response to Enterococcus faecalis by Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from the Same Polymicrobial Urines
Authors: Piatti Gabriella , De Ferrari Laura , Schito Anna Maria , Riccio Anna Maria , Penco Susanna , Cassia Sebastiano , Bruzzone Marco , Ceppi Marcello
Published: July 2021

Urinary tract infections are often polymicrobial and are mainly due to uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). We previously demonstrated a link among clinical fluoroquinolone susceptible E. coli reducing in vitro urothelial interleukin-8 (CXCL8) induced by E. coli K-12, polymicrobial cystitis, and pyuria absence. Here, we evaluated whether fifteen clinical fluoroquinolone susceptible UPEC were able to reduce CXCL8 induced by Enterococcus faecalis that had been isolated from the same mixed urines, other than CXCL8 induced by E. coli K-12. We also evaluated the connection between fluoroquinolone susceptibility and pathogenicity by evaluating the immune modulation of isogenic gyrA, a mutant UPEC resistant to ciprofloxacin. Using the 5637 bladder epithelial cell line, we observed that lower CXCL8 induced the most UPEC isolates than K-12 and the corresponding E. faecalis. During coinfections of UPEC/K-12 and UPEC/E. faecalis, we observed lower CXCL8 than during infections caused by K-12 and E. faecalis alone. UPEC strains showed host–pathogen and pathogen–pathogen interaction, which in part explained their persistence in the human urinary tract and coinfections, respectively. Mutant UPEC showed lower modulating activity with respect to the wildtypes, confirming the connection between acquired fluoroquinolone resistance and the decrease of innate microbial properties.
Beta-Lactams Toxicity in the Intensive Care Unit: An Underestimated Collateral Damage?
Authors: Roger Claire , Louart Benjamin
Published: July 2021

Beta-lactams are the most commonly prescribed antimicrobials in intensive care unit (ICU) settings and remain one of the safest antimicrobials prescribed. However, the misdiagnosis of beta-lactam-related adverse events may alter ICU patient management and impact clinical outcomes. To describe the clinical manifestations, risk factors and beta-lactam-induced neurological and renal adverse effects in the ICU setting, we performed a comprehensive literature review via an electronic search on PubMed up to April 2021 to provide updated clinical data. Beta-lactam neurotoxicity occurs in 10–15% of ICU patients and may be responsible for a large panel of clinical manifestations, ranging from confusion, encephalopathy and hallucinations to myoclonus, convulsions and non-convulsive status epilepticus. Renal impairment, underlying brain abnormalities and advanced age have been recognized as the main risk factors for neurotoxicity. In ICU patients, trough concentrations above 22 mg/L for cefepime, 64 mg/L for meropenem, 125 mg/L for flucloxacillin and 360 mg/L for piperacillin (used without tazobactam) are associated with neurotoxicity in 50% of patients. Even though renal complications (especially severe complications, such as acute interstitial nephritis, renal damage associated with drug induced hemolytic anemia and renal obstruction by crystallization) remain rare, there is compelling evidence of increased nephrotoxicity using well-known nephrotoxic drugs such as vancomycin combined with beta-lactams. Treatment mainly relies on the discontinuation of the offending drug but in the near future, antimicrobial optimal dosing regimens should be defined, not only based on pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) targets associated with clinical and microbiological efficacy, but also on PK/toxicodynamic targets. The use of dosing software may help to achieve these goals.
Predicted Cellular Interactors of the Endogenous Retrovirus-K Integrase Enzyme
Authors: Benoit Ilena , Brownell Signy , Douville Renée N.
Published: July 2021

Integrase (IN) enzymes are found in all retroviruses and are crucial in the retroviral integration process. Many studies have revealed how exogenous IN enzymes, such as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) IN, contribute to altered cellular function. However, the same consideration has not been given to viral IN originating from symbionts within our own DNA. Endogenous retrovirus-K (ERVK) is pathologically associated with neurological and inflammatory diseases along with several cancers. The ERVK IN interactome is unknown, and the question of how conserved the ERVK IN protein–protein interaction motifs are as compared to other retroviral integrases is addressed in this paper. The ERVK IN protein sequence was analyzed using the Eukaryotic Linear Motif (ELM) database, and the results are compared to ELMs of other betaretroviral INs and similar eukaryotic INs. A list of putative ERVK IN cellular protein interactors was curated from the ELM list and submitted for STRING analysis to generate an ERVK IN interactome. KEGG analysis was used to identify key pathways potentially influenced by ERVK IN. It was determined that the ERVK IN potentially interacts with cellular proteins involved in the DNA damage response (DDR), cell cycle, immunity, inflammation, cell signaling, selective autophagy, and intracellular trafficking. The most prominent pathway identified was viral carcinogenesis, in addition to select cancers, neurological diseases, and diabetic complications. This potentiates the role of ERVK IN in these pathologies via protein–protein interactions facilitating alterations in key disease pathways.
Dose-Dependent Beneficial Effects of Tryptophan and Its Derived Metabolites on Akkermansia In Vitro: A Preliminary Prospective Study
Authors: Yin Jia , Song Yujie , Hu Yaozhong , Wang Yuanyifei , Zhang Bowei , Wang Jin , Ji Xuemeng , Wang Shuo
Published: July 2021

Akkermansia muciniphila, a potential probiotic, has been proven to lessen the effects of several diseases. As established, the relative abundance of Akkermansia is positively correlated with tryptophan metabolism. However, the reciprocal interaction between tryptophan and Akkemansia is still unclear. Herein, for the first time, the possible effects of tryptophan and its derived metabolites on A. muciniphila were preliminarily investigated, including growth, physiological function, and metabolism. Obtained results suggested that 0.4 g/L of tryptophan treatment could significantly promote the growth of A. muciniphila. Notably, when grown in BHI with 0.8 g/L of tryptophan, the hydrophobicity and adhesion of A. muciniphila were significantly improved, potentially due to the increase in the rate of cell division. Furthermore, A. muciniphila metabolized tryptophan to indole, indole-3-acetic acid, indole-3-carboxaldehyde, and indole-3-lactic acid. Indoles produced by gut microbiota could significantly promote the growth of A. muciniphila. These results could provide a valuable reference for future research on the relationship between tryptophan metabolism and A. muciniphila.
Grey Box Modelling of Decanter Centrifuges by Coupling a Numerical Process Model with a Neural Network
Authors: Menesklou Philipp , Sinn Tabea , Nirschl Hermann , Gleiss Marco
Published: July 2021

Continuously operating decanter centrifuges are often applied for solid-liquid separation in the chemical and mining industries. Simulation tools can assist in the configuration and optimisation of separation processes by, e.g., controlling the quality characteristics of the product. Increasing computation power has led to a renewed interest in hybrid models (subsequently named grey box model), which combine parametric and non-paramteric models. In this article, a grey box model for the simulation of the mechanical dewatering of a finely dispersed product in decanter centrifuges is discussed. Here, the grey box model consists of a mechanistic model (as white box model) presented in a previous research article and a neural network (as black box model). Experimentally determined data is used to train the neural network in the area of application. The mechanistic approach considers the settling behaviour, the sediment consolidation, and the sediment transport. In conclusion, the settings of the neural network and the results of the grey box model and white box model are compared and discussed. Now, the overall grey box model is able to increase the accuracy of the simulation and physical effects that are not modelled yet are integrated by training of a neural network using experimental data.
Halogens in Eclogite Facies Minerals from the Western Gneiss Region, Norway
Authors: Hughes Lewis , Cuthbert Simon , Quas-Cohen Alex , Ruzié-Hamilton Lorraine , Pawley Alison , Droop Giles , Lyon Ian , Tartèse Romain , Burgess Ray
Published: July 2021

Ultra-high-pressure (UHP) eclogites and ultramafites and associated fluid inclusions from the Western Gneiss Region, Norwegian Caledonides, have been analysed for F, Cl, Br and I using electron-probe micro-analysis, time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry and neutron-irradiated noble gas mass spectrometry. Textures of multi-phase and fluid inclusions in the cores of silicate grains indicate formation during growth of the host crystal at UHP. Halogens are predominantly hosted by fluid inclusions with a minor component from mineral inclusions such as biotite, phengite, amphibole and apatite. The reconstructed fluid composition contains between 11.3 and 12.1 wt% Cl, 870 and 8900 ppm Br and 6 and 169 ppm I. F/Cl ratios indicate efficient fractionation of F from Cl by hydrous mineral crystallisation. Heavy halogen ratios are higher than modern seawater by up to two orders of magnitude for Br/Cl and up to three orders of magnitude for I/Cl. No correlation exists between Cl and Br or I, while Br and I show good correlation, suggesting that Cl behaved differently to Br and I during subduction. Evolution to higher Br/Cl ratios is similar to trends defined by eclogitic hydration reactions and seawater evaporation, indicating preferential removal of Cl from the fluid during UHP metamorphism. This study, by analogy, offers a field model for an alternative source (continental crust) and mechanism (metasomatism by partial melts or supercritical fluids) by which halogens may be transferred to and stored in the sub-continental lithospheric mantle during transient subduction of a continental margin.
Fabrication of an Anti-Reflective Microstructure on ZnS by Femtosecond Laser Bessel Beams
Authors: Li Xun , Li Ming , Liu Hongjun , Guo Yan
Published: July 2021

As an important mid-infrared to far-infrared optical window, ZnS is extremely important to improve spectral transmission performance, especially in the military field. However, on account of the Fresnel reflection at the interface between the air and the high-strength substrate, surface optical loss occurs in the ZnS optical window. In this study, the concave antireflective sub-wavelength structures (ASS) on ZnS have been experimentally investigated to obtain high transmittance in the far-infrared spectral range from 6 μm to 10 μm. We proposed a simple method to fabricate microhole array ASS by femtosecond Bessel beam, which further increased the depth of the microholes and suppressed the thermal effects effectively, including the crack and recast layer of the microhole. The influence of different Gaussian and Bessel beam parameters on the microhole morphology were explored, and three ASS structures with different periods were prepared by the optimized Bessel parameters. Ultimately, the average transmittance of the sample with the ASS microhole array period of 2.6 μm increased by 4.1% in the 6 μm to 10 μm waveband, and the transmittance was increased by 5.7% at wavelength of 7.2 μm.
Data Shepherding in Nanotechnology. The Exposure Field Campaign Template
Authors: Furxhi Irini , Koivisto Antti Joonas , Murphy Finbarr , Trabucco Sara , Del Secco Benedetta , Arvanitis Athanasios
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we demonstrate the realization process of a pragmatic approach on developing a template for capturing field monitoring data in nanomanufacturing processes. The template serves the fundamental principles which make data scientifically Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable (FAIR principles), as well as encouraging individuals to reuse it. In our case, the data shepherds’ (the guider of data) template creation workflow consists of the following steps: (1) Identify relevant stakeholders, (2) Distribute questionnaires to capture a general description of the data to be generated, (3) Understand the needs and requirements of each stakeholder, (4) Interactive simple communication with the stakeholders for variables/descriptors selection, and (5) Design of the template and annotation of descriptors. We provide an annotated template for capturing exposure field campaign monitoring data, and increase their interoperability, while comparing it with existing templates. This paper enables the data creators of exposure field campaign data to store data in a FAIR way and helps the scientific community, such as data shepherds, by avoiding extensive steps for template creation and by utilizing the pragmatic structure and/or the template proposed herein, in the case of a nanotechnology project (Anticipating Safety Issues at the Design of Nano Product Development, ASINA).
Studies on Kinetics, Isotherms, Thermodynamics and Adsorption Mechanism of Methylene Blue by N and S Co-Doped Porous Carbon Spheres
Authors: Ren Yongpeng , Chen Feng , Pan Kunming , Zhao Yang , Ma Lulu , Wei Shizhong
Published: July 2021

Heteroatom-doped carbon is widely used in the fields of adsorbents, electrode materials and catalysts due to its excellent physicochemical properties. N and S co-doped porous carbon spheres (N,S-PCSs) were synthesized using glucose and L-cysteine as carbon and heteroatom sources using a combined hydrothermal and KOH activation process. The physicochemical structures and single-factor methylene blue (MB) adsorption properties of the N,S-PCSs were then studied. The optimized N,S-PCSs-1 possessed a perfect spherical morphology with a 2–8-μm diameter and a large specific area of 1769.41 m2 g−1, in which the N and S contents were 2.97 at% and 0.88 at%, respectively. In the single-factor adsorption experiment for MB, the MB adsorption rate increased with an increase in carbon dosage and MB initial concentration, and the adsorption reached equilibrium within 2–3 h. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model could excellently fit the experimental data with a high R2 (0.9999). The Langmuir isothermal adsorption equation fitted well with the experimental results with an R2 value of 0.9618, and the MB maximum adsorption quantity was 909.10 mg g−1. The adsorption of MB by N,S-PCSs-1 was a spontaneous, endothermic, and random process based on the thermodynamics analyses. The adsorption mechanism mainly involved Van der Waals force adsorption, π-π stacking, hydrogen bonds and Lewis acid–base interactions.
Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance of n-Type Bi2Se3 Nanosheets through Sn Doping
Authors: Li Mengyao , Zhang Yu , Zhang Ting , Zuo Yong , Xiao Ke , Arbiol Jordi , Llorca Jordi , Liu Yu , Cabot Andreu
Published: July 2021

The cost-effective conversion of low-grade heat into electricity using thermoelectric devices requires developing alternative materials and material processing technologies able to reduce the currently high device manufacturing costs. In this direction, thermoelectric materials that do not rely on rare or toxic elements such as tellurium or lead need to be produced using high-throughput technologies not involving high temperatures and long processes. Bi2Se3 is an obvious possible Te-free alternative to Bi2Te3 for ambient temperature thermoelectric applications, but its performance is still low for practical applications, and additional efforts toward finding proper dopants are required. Here, we report a scalable method to produce Bi2Se3 nanosheets at low synthesis temperatures. We studied the influence of different dopants on the thermoelectric properties of this material. Among the elements tested, we demonstrated that Sn doping resulted in the best performance. Sn incorporation resulted in a significant improvement to the Bi2Se3 Seebeck coefficient and a reduction in the thermal conductivity in the direction of the hot-press axis, resulting in an overall 60% improvement in the thermoelectric figure of merit of Bi2Se3.
Conformal Self-Assembly of Nanospheres for Light-Enhanced Airtightness Monitoring and Room-Temperature Gas Sensing
Authors: Liu Qirui , Tan Yinlong , Zhang Renyan , Kang Yan , Zeng Ganying , Zhao Xiaoming , Jiang Tian
Published: July 2021

The fabrication of conformal nanostructures on microarchitectures is of great significance for diverse applications. Here a facile and universal method was developed for conformal self-assembly of nanospheres on various substrates including convex bumps and concave holes. Hydrophobic microarchitectures could be transferred into superhydrophilic ones using plasma treatment due to the formation of numerous hydroxyl groups. Because of superhydrophilicity, the nanosphere suspension spread on the microarchitectures quickly and conformal self-assembly of nanospheres can be realized. Besides, the feature size of the conformal nanospheres on the substrates could be further regulated by plasma treatment. After transferring two-dimensional tungsten disulfide sheets onto the conformal nanospheres, the periodic nanosphere array was demonstrated to be able to enhance the light harvesting of WS2. Based on this, a light-enhanced room-temperature gas sensor with a fast recovery speed (<35 s) and low detecting limit (500 ppb) was achieved. Moreover, the WS2-covered nanospheres on the microarchitectures were very sensitive to the changes in air pressure due to the formation of suspended sheets on the convex bumps and concave holes. A sensitive photoelectronic pressure sensor that was capable of detecting the airtightness of vacuum devices was developed using the WS2-decorated hierarchical architectures. This work provides a simple method for the fabrication of conformal nanospheres on arbitrary substrates, which is promising for three-dimensional microfabrication of multifunctional hierarchical microarchitectures for diverse applications, such as biomimetic compound eyes, smart wetting surfaces and photonic crystals.
Atomic Arrangements of Graphene-like ZnO
Authors: Yoon Jong Chan , Lee Zonghoon , Ryu Gyeong Hee
Published: July 2021

ZnO, which can exist in various dimensions such as bulk, thin films, nanorods, and quantum dots, has interesting physical properties depending on its dimensional structures. When a typical bulk wurtzite ZnO structure is thinned to an atomic level, it is converted into a hexagonal ZnO layer such as layered graphene. In this study, we report the atomic arrangement and structural merging behavior of graphene-like ZnO nanosheets transferred onto a monolayer graphene using aberration-corrected TEM. In the region to which an electron beam is continuously irradiated, it is confirmed that there is a directional tendency, which is that small-patched ZnO flakes are not only merging but also forming atomic migration of Zn and O atoms. This study suggests atomic alignments and rearrangements of the graphene-like ZnO, which are not considered in the wurtzite ZnO structure. In addition, this study also presents a new perspective on the atomic behavior when a bulk crystal structure, which is not an original layered structure, is converted into an atomic-thick layered two-dimensional structure.
Experimental Investigation and Molecular Dynamics Simulation on the Anti-Adhesion Behavior of Alkanethiols on Nickel Insert in Micro Injection Molding
Authors: Weng Can , Chen Jiachen , Yang Jin , Zhou Mingyong , Jiang Bingyan
Published: July 2021

Due to the adhesion between the polymer melt and nickel (Ni) mold insert in the micro injection molding process, deformation defects frequently occur when the microstructures are demolded from the insert. In this study, self-assembled alkanethiols were applied to modify the surface of Ni mold insert to reduce its surface energy. Experimental trials were undertaken to explore the effect of alkanethiols coating on the replication quality. After that, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was then used to investigate the adhesion behavior between the self-assembled coating and polypropylene (PP) by establishing three different types of alkanethiol material. The interaction energy, the potential energy change and radial distribution function were calculated to study the anti-adhesion mechanism. Experimental results show that all the three coatings can effectively decrease the adhesion and therefore promote the replication fidelity. It is demonstrated in MD simulation that the adhesion mainly comes from the van der Waals (vdW) force at the interface. The arrangement of sulfur atom on the Ni surface results in different absorbing behaviors. Compared with that of the PP–Ni interface, the interfacial energy and adhesion work after surface treatment is significantly reduced.
Low Bone Mineral Density and Risk for Osteoporotic Fractures in Patients with Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Vujasinovic Miroslav , Nezirevic Dobrijevic Lorena , Asplund Ebba , Rutkowski Wiktor , Dugic Ana , Kahn Mashroor , Dahlman Ingrid , Sääf Maria , Hagström Hannes , Löhr Johannes-Matthias
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Chronic pancreatitis (CP) can lead to malnutrition, an established risk factor for low bone mineral density (BMD) and fractures. This study aims to determine the prevalence of low BMD, assess fracture incidence and explore risk factors for fractures in patients with CP. Patients and methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients treated for CP at Karolinska University Hospital between January 1999 and December 2020. Electronic medical records were retrieved to assess demographic, laboratory and clinical data. Patients subjected to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) were categorised as either low BMD or normal BMD. We investigated whether the rate of fractures, defined by chart review, differed between these groups using Cox regression, adjusting the model for age, sex and body mass index (BMI). Additional within-group survival analysis was conducted to identify potential risk factors. Results: DXA was performed in 23% of patients with definite CP. Some 118 patients were included in the final analysis. Low BMD was present in 63 (53.4%) patients. Mean age at CP diagnosis in the total cohort was 53.1 years and was significantly lower in patients with normal BMD than in patients with low BMD (45.5 vs. 59.8, p < 0.001). Significant differences were observed in smoking status and disease aetiology, i.e., a higher proportion of patients with low BMD were current or former smokers, with nicotine or alcohol being a more common cause of CP (p < 0.05). Total follow-up time was 898 person-years. Fractures were found in 33 (28.0%) patients: in 5 of 55 patients (16.7%) with normal DXA and in 28 of 63 patients (44.4%) with low BMD (adjusted hazard ratio = 3.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.2–9.6). Patients with at least 3 months of consecutive pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) or vitamin D treatment had a longer median time to fracture after CP diagnosis. Conclusion: DXA was only performed in 23% of patients with definite CP in this study, indicating a low adherence to current European guidelines. A low BMD was found in 53.4% of patients with CP, and 44% of the patients with a low BMD experienced a fracture during follow-up. Moreover, the fracture rate in patients with low BMD increased compared to those with normal BMD.
Eating Competence and Dietary Intake of Sexual and Gender Minority College Students
Authors: Murphy Sara , Morrell Jesse Stabile
Published: July 2021

Sexual and gender minority college students are underrepresented in nutrition research and may face unique challenges related to eating which impact their overall diet quality. We assessed the differences in eating competence and dietary intake between sexual and gender minority (SGM) and cisgender heterosexual (CH) college students. Participants (n = 2645) reported sexual orientation, gender identity and completed the Eating Competence Satter Inventory (ecSI 2.0™ through an online questionnaire. Three-day food records examined dietary intake. Intake was compared to recommendations for nutrients of public health concern. Chi-square and ANCOVA examined differences between eating competence and dietary intake. There were no differences in total ecSI 2.0™ scores. Subscale scores for Eating Attitudes and Contextual Skills were significantly higher in CH vs. SGM students (13.4 ± 0.1 vs. 12.4 ± 0.4 p = 0.01 and 10.7 ± 0.1 vs. 9.9 ± 0.3, p = 0.01, respectively). Most students (40.8%) met one nutrient recommendation. The proportion of students meeting nutrient recommendations were similar for SGM and CH. SGM populations may struggle with attitudes and eating behaviors. Dietary intake of SGM and CH students were similarly inadequate when compared to recommendations.
The Association between Healthy Diet and Burnout Symptoms among Finnish Municipal Employees
Authors: Penttinen Markus A. , Virtanen Jenni , Laaksonen Marika , Erkkola Maijaliisa , Vepsäläinen Henna , Kautiainen Hannu , Korhonen Päivi
Published: July 2021

Background: Burnout is an undesirable mental condition, which may have a negative impact on individuals’ health and work ability. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between diet and burnout symptoms among female public sector employees. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2015 among 630 female employees from 10 municipal work units of the city of Pori, Finland. Burnout symptoms were assessed with the Bergen Burnout Indicator (BBI). The consumption of food items was determined using the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The main food groups were categorized into healthy and unhealthy foods based on the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations for a healthy and balanced diet. Results: In multivariate linear regression analysis, consumption of healthy food items had an inverse relationship with the severity of burnout symptoms independently of age, education years, physical activity, and depressive symptoms. De-tailed analysis revealed that subjects with lower BBI score consumed more often low-fat dairy produce, vegetables, fruit and berries, vegetable food, and white meat. Conclusions: Frequent consumption of healthy food items is associated with low level of burnout symptoms. Our results emphasize the importance of diverse and balanced healthy diet to promote work well-being.
Maternal Nutrition Status Associated with Pregnancy-Related Adverse Outcomes
Authors: Miele Maria J , Souza Renato T , Calderon Iracema M , Feitosa Francisco E , Leite Debora F , Rocha Filho Edilberto A , Vettorazzi Janete , Mayrink Jussara , Fernandes Karayna G , Vieira Matias C , Pacagnella Rodolfo C , Cecatti José G.
Published: July 2021

Although maternal nutrition has an impact on fetal development and gestational outcome, tracking maternal nutrition in outpatient practice is still complex and involves proper technical capacitation in this area. Nevertheless, the association between nutritional variables may broaden the ability to predict the occurrence of gestational disorders and prevention management. We aimed to identify factors that could indicate the probability of adverse outcomes in mid-pregnancy. From a cohort of 1165 nulliparous pregnant women without any previous disease, the nutritional status was assessed by body mass index (BMI) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), associated with dietary patterns and sociodemographic characteristics. Two predictive models with nutritional status for screening the occurrence of adverse outcomes of preterm birth, gestational diabetes mellitus, small-for-gestational-age newborns and preeclampsia were developed. The odds of adverse outcomes were higher in non-white (p < 0.05) obese women and with high protein consumption. There was no significant difference between the models, with an overall accuracy of 63% for both models and a probability of success in predicting adverse outcomes (BMI = 61%, MUAC = 52%). This study of Brazilian pregnant nulliparous women offers two possible options for early tracking of adverse gestational outcomes that should be further externally validated.
Effect of Coffee and Cocoa-Based Confectionery Containing Coffee on Markers of DNA Damage and Lipid Peroxidation Products: Results from a Human Intervention Study
Authors: Martini Daniela , Domínguez-Perles Raúl , Rosi Alice , Tassotti Michele , Angelino Donato , Medina Sonia , Ricci Cristian , Guy Alexandre , Oger Camille , Gigliotti Letizia , Durand Thierry , Marino Mirko , Gottfried-Genieser Hans , Porrini Marisa , Antonini Monica , Dei Cas Alessandra , Bonadonna Riccardo C. , Ferreres Federico , Scazzina Francesca , Brighenti Furio , Riso Patrizia , Del Bo’ Cristian , Mena Pedro , Gil-Izquierdo Angel , Del Rio Daniele
Published: July 2021

The effect of coffee and cocoa on oxidative damage to macromolecules has been investigated in several studies, often with controversial results. This study aimed to investigate the effect of one-month consumption of different doses of coffee or cocoa-based products containing coffee on markers of DNA damage and lipid peroxidation in young healthy volunteers. Twenty-one volunteers were randomly assigned into a three-arm, crossover, randomized trial. Subjects were assigned to consume one of the three following treatments: one cup of espresso coffee/day (1C), three cups of espresso coffee/day (3C), and one cup of espresso coffee plus two cocoa-based products containing coffee (PC) twice per day for 1 month. At the end of each treatment, blood samples were collected for the analysis of endogenous and H2O2-induced DNA damage and DNA oxidation catabolites, while urines were used for the analysis of oxylipins. On the whole, four DNA catabolites (cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), 8-OH-2′-deoxy-guanosine, 8-OH-guanine, and 8-NO2-cGMP) were detected in plasma samples following the one-month intervention. No significant modulation of DNA and lipid damage markers was documented among groups, apart from an effect of time for DNA strand breaks and some markers of lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, the consumption of coffee and cocoa-based confectionery containing coffee was apparently not able to affect oxidative stress markers. More studies are encouraged to better explain the findings obtained and to understand the impact of different dosages of these products on specific target groups.
Nutritional, Gastrointestinal and Endo-Metabolic Challenges in the Management of Children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1
Authors: Corsello Antonio , Scatigno Lorenzo , Pascuzzi Martina Chiara , Calcaterra Valeria , Dilillo Dario , Vizzuso Sara , Pelizzo Gloria , Zoia Elena , Mandelli Anna , Govoni Annalisa , Bosetti Alessandra , Francavilla Ruggiero , Indrio Flavia , Fabiano Valentina , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Verduci Elvira
Published: July 2021

The management of patients with spinal muscular atrophy type 1 (SMA1) is constantly evolving. In just a few decades, the medical approach has switched from an exclusively palliative therapy to a targeted therapy, transforming the natural history of the disease, improving survival time and quality of life and creating new challenges and goals. Many nutritional problems, gastrointestinal disorders and metabolic and endocrine alterations are commonly identified in patients affected by SMA1 during childhood and adolescence. For this reason, a proper pediatric multidisciplinary approach is then required in the clinical care of these patients, with a specific focus on the prevention of most common complications. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide the clinician with a practical and usable tool about SMA1 patients care, through a comprehensive insight into the nutritional, gastroenterological, metabolic and endocrine management of SMA1. Considering the possible horizons opened thanks to new therapeutic frontiers, a nutritional and endo-metabolic surveillance is a crucial element to be considered for a proper clinical care of these patients.
Creatine Monohydrate Supplementation Increases White Adipose Tissue Mitochondrial Markers in Male and Female Rats in a Depot Specific Manner
Authors: Ryan Chantal R. , Finch Michael S. , Dunham Tyler C. , Murphy Jensen E. , Roy Brian D. , MacPherson Rebecca E. K.
Published: July 2021

White adipose tissue (WAT) is a dynamic endocrine organ that can play a significant role in thermoregulation. WAT has the capacity to adopt structural and functional characteristics of the more metabolically active brown adipose tissue (BAT) and contribute to non-shivering thermogenesis under specific stimuli. Non-shivering thermogenesis was previously thought to be uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1)-dependent however, recent evidence suggests that UCP1-independent mechanisms of thermogenesis exist. Namely, futile creatine cycling has been identified as a contributor to WAT thermogenesis. The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of creatine supplementation to alter mitochondrial markers as well as adipocyte size and multilocularity in inguinal (iWAT), gonadal (gWAT), and BAT. Thirty-two male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with varying doses (0 g/L, 2.5 g/L, 5 g/L, and 10 g/L) of creatine monohydrate for 8 weeks. We demonstrate that mitochondrial markers respond in a sex and depot specific manner. In iWAT, female rats displayed significant increases in COXIV, PDH-E1alpha, and cytochrome C protein content. Male rats exhibited gWAT specific increases in COXIV and PDH-E1alpha protein content. This study supports creatine supplementation as a potential method of UCP1-independant thermogenesis and highlights the importance of taking a sex-specific approach when examining the efficacy of browning therapeutics in future research.
Synergistic Neuroprotective Effects of a Natural Product Mixture against AD Hallmarks and Cognitive Decline in Caenorhabditis elegans and an SAMP8 Mice Model
Authors: Griñán-Ferré Christian , Bellver-Sanchis Aina , Olivares-Martín Mónica , Bañuelos-Hortigüela Oscar , Pallàs Mercè
Published: July 2021

The study of different natural products can provide a wealth of bioactive compounds, and more interestingly, their combination can exert a new strategy for several neurodegenerative diseases with major public health importance, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here, we investigated the synergistic neuroprotective effects of a mixed extract composed of docosahexaenoic acid, Ginkgo biloba, D-pinitol, and ursolic acid in several transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) and a senescence-accelerated prone mice 8 (SAMP8) model. First, we found a significantly higher survival percentage in the C. elegans group treated with the natural product mixture compared to the single extract-treated groups. Likewise, we found a significantly increased lifespan in group of C. elegans treated with the natural product mixture compared to the other groups, suggesting synergistic effects. Remarkably, we determined a significant reduction in Aβ plaque accumulation in the group of C. elegans treated with the natural product mixture compared to the other groups, confirming synergy. Finally, we demonstrated better cognitive performance in the group treated with the natural product mixture in both AD models (neuronal Aβ C. elegans strain CL2355 and the SAMP8 mice model), confirming the molecular results and unraveling the synergist effects of this combination. Therefore, our results proved the potential of this new natural product mixture for AD therapeutic strategies.
Determinants of Children’s Fruit Intake in Teso South Sub-County, Kenya—A Multi-Phase Mixed Methods Study among Households with Children 0–8 Years of Age
Authors: Kretz Eleonore , Jordan Irmgard , Itaru Annet , Glas Maria Gracia , Fischer Sahrah , Pircher Thomas , Hilger Thomas , Waswa Lydiah Maruti
Published: July 2021

Fruits are micronutrient-rich sources which are often underrepresented in children’s diets. More insights into the determinants of children’s fruit consumption are needed to improve nutrition education in Teso South Sub-County, Kenya. A multiphase mixed method study was applied among 48 farm households with children 0–8 years of age. A market survey together with focus group discussions were used to design a formative research approach including qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The unavailability of fruits and the inability to plant fruit trees in the homesteads were the main challenges to improve fruit consumption behaviour, although a number of different fruit species were available on the market or in households. Perceived shortage of fruits, financial constraints to purchase fruits and taste were important barriers. Fruits as snacks given between meals was perceived as helpful to satisfy children. The mean number of fruit trees in the homesteads was positively associated with fruit consumption. Field trials are needed to test how best fruit trees within home gardens and on farms can be included, acknowledging limited space and constraints of households with young children. This should be combined with nutrition education programs addressing perceptions about the social and nutrient value of fruits for children.
Effect of a Commercial Disinfectant CLORICAN® on Acanthamoeba spp. and Naegleria fowleri Viability
Authors: Sifaoui Ines , Rizo-Liendo Aitor , Reyes-Batlle María , Arberas-Jiménez Iñigo , Rodríguez-Expósito Rubén L. , Piñero José E. , Lorenzo-Morales Jacob
Published: July 2021

Swimming pool water treatment by chemicals is an essential step to avoid microbial proliferation and infections namely caused by free living amoeba such as, for example, primary amebic meningoencephalitis and Acanthamoeba keratitis. In the present study, a commercial reactive, CLORICAN, based on chlorine dioxide, was evaluated against Acanthamoeba spp. and Naegleria fowleri. We observed that CLORICAN could eliminate in a short period of incubation time both amoebae. Furthermore, Naegleria fowleri’s trophozoites were more sensitive than those of Acanthamoeba spp. By means of inverted microscopy, the chlorine dioxide was found to greatly affect morphology shape by increasing the cell size shrinkage.
Clinical, Radiological and Functional Characteristics of Pulmonary Diseases among HTLV-1 Infected Patients without Prior Active Tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Cachay Rodrigo , Gil-Zacarias Marcela , Watanabe-Tejada Takashi , Schwalb Alvaro , Mejía Fernando , Gayoso Oscar , Gotuzzo Eduardo
Published: July 2021

The lifelong infection with the human T lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) has been associated with a variety of clinical manifestations; one of the less-explored is HTLV-1-associated pulmonary disease. Imaging of lung damage caused by the HTLV-1 hyperinflammatory cascade can be similar to sequelae from TB infection. Our study aims to describe the pulmonary lesions of HTLV-1-positive patients without past or current active TB and evaluate pulmonary function. We found that nine out of fourteen patients with no known TB disease history presented bronchiectasis, mainly found bilaterally while five presented pulmonary fibrosis. A normal pattern was found in most patients with a pulmonary functional test. Furthermore, there was no association between the PVL and the chest-CT scan findings, nor with spirometry results. However, the sample size was insufficient to conclude it.
Pharmacokinetic Properties of the Novel Synthetic Cannabinoid 5F-APINAC and Its Influence on Metabolites Associated with Neurotransmission in Rabbit Plasma
Authors: Shestakova Ksenia M. , Mesonzhnik Natalia V. , Markin Pavel A. , Moskaleva Natalia E. , Nedorubov Andrey A. , Brito Alex , Appolonova Elizaveta G. , Kuznetsov Roman M. , Bochkareva Natalia L. , Kukharenko Alexey , Lyundup Alexey V. , Tagliaro Franco , Appolonova Svetlana A.
Published: July 2021

The strong psychoactive effects of synthetic cannabinoids raise the need for the deeper studying of their neurometabolic effects. The pharmacokinetic properties of 5F-APINAC and its influence on metabolomics profiles associated with neurotransmission were investigated in rabbit plasma. Twelve rabbits divided into three groups received 1-mL 5F-APINAC at 0.1, 1 and 2 mg/kg. The intervention groups were compared with the controls. Sampling was performed at nine time points (0–24 h). Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was used. The pharmacokinetics were dose-dependent (higher curve at a higher dose) with a rapid biotransformation, followed by gradual elimination within 24 h. The tryptophan concentrations abruptly decreased (p < 0.05) in all tested groups, returning to the basal levels after 6 h. 5-hydroxylindole acetic acid increased (p < 0.05) in the controls, but this trend was absent in the treated groups. The aspartic acid concentrations were elevated (p < 0.001) in the treated groups. L-kynurenine was elevated (p < 0.01) in the intervention groups receiving 1 mg/kg to 2 mg/kg. Dose-dependent elevations (p < 0.01) were found for kynurenic acid, xanthurenic acid and quinolinic acid (p < 0.01), whereas the anthranilic acid trends were decreased (p < 0.01). The indole-3-propionic acid and indole-3-carboxaldehyde trends were elevated (p < 0.05), whereas the indole-3-lactic acid trajectories were decreased (p < 0.01) in the intervention groups. 5F-APINAC administration had a rapid biotransformation and gradual elimination. The metabolites related to the kynurenine and serotonergic system/serotonin pathways, aspartic acid innervation system and microbial tryptophan catabolism were altered.
New (Iso)quinolinyl-pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamide G-Quadruplex Stabilizers. A Structure-Activity Relationship Study
Authors: Cadoni Enrico , Magalhães Pedro R. , Emídio Rita M. , Mendes Eduarda , Vítor Jorge , Carvalho Josué , Cruz Carla , Victor Bruno L. , Paulo Alexandra
Published: July 2021

G-quadruplex (G4)-interactive small molecules have a wide range of potential applications, not only as drugs, but also as sensors of quadruplex structures. The purpose of this work is the synthesis of analogues of the bis-methylquinolinium-pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamide G4 ligand 360A, to identify relevant structure–activity relationships to apply to the design of other G4-interactive small molecules bearing bis-quinoline or bis-isoquinoline moieties. Thermal denaturation experiments revealed that non-methylated derivatives with a relative 1,4 position between the amide linker and the nitrogen of the quinoline ring are moderate G4 stabilizers, with a preference for the hybrid h-Telo G4, a 21-nt sequence present in human telomeres. Insertion of a positive charge upon methylation of quinoline/isoquinoline nitrogen increases compounds’ ability to selectively stabilize G4s compared to duplex DNA, with a preference for parallel structures. Among these, compounds having a relative 1,3-position between the charged methylquinolinium/isoquinolinium nitrogen and the amide linker are the best G4 stabilizers. More interestingly, these ligands showed different capacities to selectively block DNA polymerization in a PCR-stop assay and to induce G4 conformation switches of hybrid h-Telo G4. Molecular dynamic simulations with the parallel G4 formed by a 21-nt sequence present in k-RAS gene promoter, showed that the relative spatial orientation of the two methylated quinoline/isoquinoline rings determines the ligands mode and strength of binding to G4s.
Hydralazine and Panobinostat Attenuate Malignant Properties of Prostate Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Pacheco Mariana Brütt , Camilo Vânia , Lopes Nair , Moreira-Silva Filipa , Correia Margareta P. , Henrique Rui , Jerónimo Carmen
Published: July 2021

Among the well-established alterations contributing to prostate cancer (PCa) pathogenesis, epigenetics is an important player in its development and aggressive disease state. Moreover, since no curative therapies are available for advanced stage disease, there is an urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies targeting this subset of patients. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the combined antineoplastic effects of DNA methylation inhibitor hydralazine and histone deacetylase inhibitors panobinostat and valproic acid in several prostate cell lines. The effect of these drugs was assessed in four PCa (LNCaP, 22Rv1, DU145 and PC-3) cell lines, as well as in non-malignant epithelial (RWPE-1) and stromal (WPMY-1) cell lines, using several assays to evaluate cell viability, apoptosis, proliferation, DNA damage and clonogenic potential. We found that exposure to each epidrug separately reduced viability of all PCa cells in a dose-dependent manner and that combined treatments led to synergic growth inhibitory effects, impacting also on colony formation, invasion, apoptotic and proliferation rates. Interestingly, antitumoral effects of combined treatment were particularly expressive in DU145 cells. We concluded that hydralazine and panobinostat attenuate malignant properties of PCa cells, constituting a potential therapeutic tool to counteract PCa progression.