bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Variational Iteration Transform Method for Solving the Time-Fractional Fornberg–Whitham Equation and Comparison with Decomposition Transform Method
Authors: Shah Nehad Ali , Dassios Ioannis , El-Zahar Essam R. , Chung Jae Dong , Taherifar Somaye
Published: January 2021

In this article, modified techniques, namely the variational iteration transform and Shehu decomposition method, are implemented to achieve an approximate analytical solution for the time-fractional Fornberg–Whitham equation. A comparison is made between the results of the variational iteration transform method and the Shehu decomposition method. The solution procedure reveals that the variational iteration transform method and Shehu decomposition method is effective, reliable and straightforward. The variational iteration transform methods solve non-linear problems without using Adomian’s polynomials and He’s polynomials, which is a clear advantage over the decomposition technique. The solutions achieved are compared with the corresponding exact result to show the efficiency and accuracy of the existing methods in solving a wide variety of linear and non-linear problems arising in various science areas.
On High-Order Iterative Schemes for the Matrix pth Root Avoiding the Use of Inverses
Authors: Amat Sergio , Busquier Sonia , Hernández-Verón Miguel Ángel , Magreñán Ángel Alberto
Published: January 2021

This paper is devoted to the approximation of matrix pth roots. We present and analyze a family of algorithms free of inverses. The method is a combination of two families of iterative methods. The first one gives an approximation of the matrix inverse. The second family computes, using the first method, an approximation of the matrix pth root. We analyze the computational cost and the convergence of this family of methods. Finally, we introduce several numerical examples in order to check the performance of this combination of schemes. We conclude that the method without inverse emerges as a good alternative since a similar numerical behavior with smaller computational cost is obtained.
Bayesian Estimation Based on Sequential Order Statistics for Heterogeneous Baseline Gompertz Distributions
Authors: Tsai Tzong-Ru , Xin Hua , Kao Chiun-How
Published: January 2021

A composite dynamic system (CDS) is composed of multiple components. Each component failure can equally induce higher loading on the surviving components and, hence, enhances the hazard rate of each surviving component. The applications of CDS and the reliability evaluation of CDS has earned more attention in the recent two decades. Because the lifetime quality of components could be inconsistent, the lifetimes of components in the CDS is considered to follow heterogeneous baseline Gompertz distributions in this study. A power-trend hazard rate function is used in order to characterize the hazard rate of the CDS. In order to overcome the difficulty of obtaining reliable estimates of the parameters in the CDS model, the Bayesian estimation method utilizing a hybrid Gibbs sampling and Metropolis-Hasting algorithm to implement the Markov chain Monte Carlo approach is proposed for obtaining the Bayes estimators of the CDS parameters. An intensive simulation study is carried out to evaluate the performance of the proposed estimation method. The simulation results show that the proposed estimation method is reliable in providing reliability evaluation information for the CDS. An example regarding the service system of small electric carts is used for illustration.
Branched Continued Fraction Expansions of Horn’s Hypergeometric Function H3 Ratios
Authors: Antonova Tamara , Dmytryshyn Roman , Kravtsiv Victoriia
Published: January 2021

The paper deals with the problem of construction and investigation of branched continued fraction expansions of special functions of several variables. We give some recurrence relations of Horn hypergeometric functions H3. By these relations the branched continued fraction expansions of Horn’s hypergeometric function H3 ratios have been constructed. We have established some convergence criteria for the above-mentioned branched continued fractions with elements in R2 and C2. In addition, it is proved that the branched continued fraction expansions converges to the functions which are an analytic continuation of the above-mentioned ratios in some domain (here domain is an open connected set). Application for some system of partial differential equations is considered.
A Kriging-Assisted Multi-Objective Constrained Global Optimization Method for Expensive Black-Box Functions
Authors: Li Yaohui , Shen Jingfang , Cai Ziliang , Wu Yizhong , Wang Shuting
Published: January 2021

The kriging optimization method that can only obtain one sampling point per cycle has encountered a bottleneck in practical engineering applications. How to find a suitable optimization method to generate multiple sampling points at a time while improving the accuracy of convergence and reducing the number of expensive evaluations has been a wide concern. For this reason, a kriging-assisted multi-objective constrained global optimization (KMCGO) method has been proposed. The sample data obtained from the expensive function evaluation is first used to construct or update the kriging model in each cycle. Then, kriging-based estimated target, RMSE (root mean square error), and feasibility probability are used to form three objectives, which are optimized to generate the Pareto frontier set through multi-objective optimization. Finally, the sample data from the Pareto frontier set is further screened to obtain more promising and valuable sampling points. The test results of five benchmark functions, four design problems, and a fuel economy simulation optimization prove the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Benefits under the Sea: The Role of Marine Compounds in Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Catanesi Mariano , Caioni Giulia , Castelli Vanessa , Benedetti Elisabetta , d’Angelo Michele , Cimini Annamaria
Published: January 2021

Marine habitats offer a rich reservoir of new bioactive compounds with great pharmaceutical potential; the variety of these molecules is unique, and its production is favored by the chemical and physical conditions of the sea. It is known that marine organisms can synthesize bioactive molecules to survive from atypical environmental conditions, such as oxidative stress, photodynamic damage, and extreme temperature. Recent evidence proposed a beneficial role of these compounds for human health. In particular, xanthines, bryostatin, and 11-dehydrosinulariolide displayed encouraging neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative disorders. This review will focus on the most promising marine drugs’ neuroprotective potential for neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. We will describe these marine compounds’ potential as adjuvant therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, based on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties.
Physical Activity Levels and Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Preliminary Results of a Comparative Study between Convenience Samples from Brazil and Switzerland
Authors: Puccinelli Paulo J. , Costa Taline S. , Seffrin Aldo , de Lira Claudio A. B. , Vancini Rodrigo L. , Knechtle Beat , Nikolaidis Pantelis T. , Andrade Marilia S.
Published: January 2021

Background and objectives: It has been suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic impaired people’s moods and general levels of physical activity, but the way in which each country is coping with the situation may result in different outcomes. The aim of the present study was to compare the mental health and physical activity levels between residents of Brazil and Switzerland during the social distancing period associated with COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: A self-administered questionnaire aiming to assess personal, quarantine, physical activity, and mood state disorders data was answered by 114 participants (57 from each country) of both sexes. Results: Swiss participants presented a higher frequency of people (47.4%) not abiding by social distancing measures compared to Brazilian participants (1.8%; p < 0.001, effect size = 0.56). There were no significant differences between the participants from the two countries regarding physical activity levels (p = 0.09). The Swiss presented a higher frequency (78.9%) of people without symptoms of depression compared to Brazilians (31.6%; p < 0.001, effect size = 0.48). The Swiss also presented a higher frequency (77.2%) of people without symptoms of anxiety compared to Brazilians (35.1%; p < 0.001, effect size = 0.43). There was a significant association between the restriction level and depression symptoms (p = 0.01, effect size = 0.25) but not with anxiety symptoms (p = 0.21, effect size = 0.16). Conclusions: According to the preliminary results, Brazilians presented a much higher frequency of depression and anxiety symptoms, which can be explained by characteristics other than the restriction level.
Airway Foreign Body Mimicking an Endobronchial Tumor Presenting with Pneumothorax in an Adult: A Case Report
Authors: Ha Jun-Ho , Jeong Byeong-Ho
Published: January 2021

Foreign body (FB) aspiration occurs less frequently in adults than in children. Among the complications related to FB aspiration, pneumothorax is rarely reported in adults. Although the majority of FB aspiration cases can be diagnosed easily and accurately by using radiographs and bronchoscopy, some patients are misdiagnosed with endobronchial tumors. We describe a case of airway FB that mimicked an endobronchial tumor presenting with pneumothorax in an adult. A 77-year-old man was referred to our hospital due to pneumothorax and atelectasis of the right upper lobe caused by an endobronchial nodule. A chest tube was immediately inserted to decompress the pneumothorax. Chest computed tomography with contrast revealed an endobronchial nodule that was seen as contrast-enhanced. Flexible bronchoscopy was performed to biopsy the nodule. The bronchoscopy showed a yellow spherical nodule in the right upper lobar bronchus. Rat tooth forceps were used, because the lesion was too slippery to grasp with ellipsoid cup biopsy forceps. The whole nodule was extracted and was confirmed to be a FB, which was determined to be a green pea vegetable. After the procedure, the chest tube was removed, and the patient was discharged without any complications. This case highlights the importance of suspecting a FB as a cause of pneumothorax and presents the possibility of misdiagnosing an aspirated FB as an endobronchial tumor and selecting the appropriate instrument for removing an endobronchial FB.
Systematic and MRI-Cognitive Targeted Transperineal Prostate Biopsy Accuracy in Detecting Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer after Previous Negative Biopsy and Persisting Suspicion of Malignancy
Authors: Vėželis Alvydas , Platkevičius Gediminas , Kinčius Marius , Gumbys Liutauras , Naruševičiūtė Ieva , Briedienė Rūta , Petroška Donatas , Ulys Albertas , Jankevičius Feliksas
Published: January 2021

Background and objectives: Overdiagnosis, overtreatment, and the need for repeated procedures caused by transrectal ultrasound guided prostate biopsies and their related complications places a heavy burden on healthcare systems. This was a prospective cohort validating study to access the clinical accuracy of systematic and MRI-cognitive targeted transperineal prostate biopsies in detecting clinically significant prostate cancer after a previous negative biopsy and persistent suspicion of malignancy. The primary goal was to assess the ability of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) to detect clinically significant prostate cancer with an additional goal to assess the diagnostic value of systematic and MRI-cognitive transperineal biopsies. Materials and Methods: In total, 200 patients were enrolled who had rising serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels for at least 4 months after a previous negative transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) biopsy. All eligible men underwent 1.5T prostate mpMRI, reported using the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System version 2 (PI-RADS v2), followed by a 20-region transperineal prostate systematic biopsy and additional targeted biopsies. Results: Systematic 20-core transperineal prostate biopsies (TPBs) were performed for 38 (19%) patients. Systemic 20-core TPB with additional cognitive targeted biopsies were performed for 162 (81%) patients. Clinically significant prostate cancer (csPC) was detected for 31 (15.5%) patients, of which 20 (64.5%) cases of csPC were detected by systematic biopsy, eight (25.8%) cases were detected by targeted biopsy, and three (9.7%) both by systematic and targeted biopsies. Conclusions: Cognitive mpMRI guided transperineal target biopsies increase the detection rate of clinically significant prostate cancer after a previously negative biopsy. However, in a repeat prostate biopsy setting, we recommend applying a cognitive targeted biopsy with the addition of a systematic biopsy.
Inactivation of E. coli Using Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet with Dry and Wet Argon Discharges
Authors: Asghar Atif H. , Ahmed Omar B. , Galaly Ahmed Rida
Published: January 2021

The acceleration of inactivating viable cells of Escherichia coli (E. coli), by using new direct and indirect innovative methods, is the targeted method of using an atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) operated by an AC high-voltage power source with variable frequency up to 60 kHz and voltage ranging from 2.5 to 25 kV. Discharges using dry argon (0% O2) discharges and different wet argon discharges using admixtures with O2/Ar ratios ranging from 0.25% to 1.5% were studied. The combined effects of dry and wet argon discharges, direct and indirect exposure using a mesh controller, and hollow magnets were studied to reach a complete bacterial inactivation in short application times. Survival curves showed that the inactivation rate increased as the wettability increased. The application of magnetized non-thermal plasma discharge with a 1.5% wetness ratio causes a fast inactivation rate of microbes on surfaces, and a dramatic decrease of the residual survival of the bacterial ratio due to an increase in the jet width and the enhanced ability of fast transport of the charges to viable cells, especially at the edge of the Petri dish. The membrane damage of E. coli mechanism factors in the activation process by APPJ is discussed.
Electrochemical Noise Analysis of the Corrosion of Titanium Alloys in NaCl and H2SO4 Solutions
Authors: Jáquez-Muñoz Jesús Manuel , Gaona-Tiburcio Citlalli , Cabral-Miramontes Jose , Nieves-Mendoza Demetrio , Maldonado-Bandala Erick , Olguín-Coca Javier , López-Léon Luis Daimir , Flores-De los Rios Juan Pablo , Almeraya-Calderón Facundo
Published: January 2021

Titanium alloys have been used in aerospace, aeronautic, automotive, biomedical, structural, and other applications because titanium alloys have less density than materials like steel and support higher stress than Al-alloys. However, components made of titanium alloys are exposed to corrosive environments, the most common being industrial and marine atmospheres. This research shows the corrosion behavior of three titanium alloys, specifically Ti-CP2, Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo, and Ti-6Al-4V with α, near α, and α + β alloys phases. Alloys were exposed in two electrolytes to a 3.5 wt. % H2SO4 and NaCl solution at room temperature, and their electrochemical behavior was studied by electrochemical noise technique (EN) according to ASTM ASTM-G199 standard. EN signal was filtered by three different methods, and the polynomial method was employed to obtain Rn, kurtosis, skew, and the potential spectral density analysis (PSD). The wavelets method was used, from which energy dispersion plots were obtained. The last method was Hilbert–Huang Transform (HHT), where Hilbert Spectra were analyzed. Results indicated that Rn compared with PSD showed that Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo presented less dissolution in both electrolytes. Statistical methods showed that the passive layer created on Ti alloys’ surfaces is unstable; this condition is notable for Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo in NaCl solution.
Acceleration of Bone Formation and Adhesion Ability on Dental Implant Surface via Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation in a Solution Containing Bone Ions
Authors: Kaseem Mosab , Choe Han-Cheol
Published: January 2021

The present study examined the in vitro and in vivo bone formation and adhesion ability on the surface of a titanium dental implant made by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) in electrolytes containing bioactive ions. To achieve this goal, screw-shaped fabricated Ti-6Al-4V alloy implants were processed via PEO using an electrolyte solution containing calcium (Ca), phosphorous (P), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), strontium (Sr), silicon (Si), and manganese (Mn) species. The screw implants doped with bioactive elements via PEO were placed in rabbit tibia, and the results were compared to the sand-blasted Ti-6Al-4V alloy implants. At eight-week post-surgery, there was no significant difference in the values of removal torque between sand-blasted and PEO-treated implants. However, it was observed that the PEO treatment of dental implants led to the formation of more periphery bone as compared to the case of sand-blasted implants. Accordingly, the PEO-treated implants have the potential to be used as promising materials for dental applications.
Analysis of Strain Partitioning in Intercritically Deformed Microstructures via Interrupted Tensile Tests
Authors: Mayo Unai , Isasti Nerea , Rodríguez-Ibabe José M. , Uranga Pello
Published: January 2021

Intercritically deformed steels present combinations of different types of ferrite, such as deformed ferrite (DF) and non-deformed ferrite (NDF) grains, which are transformed during the final deformation passes and final cooling step. Recently, a grain identification and correlation technique based on EBSD has been employed together with a discretization methodology, enabling a distinction to be drawn between different ferrite populations (NDF and DF grains). This paper presents a combination of interrupted tensile tests with crystallographic characterization performed by means of Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD), by analyzing the evolution of an intercritically deformed micro-alloyed steel. In addition to this, and using the nanoindentation technique, both ferrite families were characterized micromechanically and the nanohardness was quantified for each population. NDF grains are softer than DF ones, which is related to the presence of a lower fraction of low-angle grain boundaries. The interrupted tensile tests show the different behavior of low- and high-angle grain boundary evolution as well as the strain partitioning in each ferrite family. NDF population accommodates most of the deformation at initial strain intervals, since strain reaches 10%. For higher strains, NDF and DF grains behave similarly to the strain applied.
Modeling Air Aspiration in Steel Continuous Casting Slide-Gate Nozzles
Authors: Yang Hyunjin , Olia Hamed , Thomas Brian G.
Published: January 2021

Air aspiration is an important cause of nozzle clogging and inclusions in final products of continuous casting of steel due to the presence of metal oxides (such as alumina) which occur through the reoxidation of molten steel. This problem is most likely to occur when the flow control system (slide-gate or stopper rod) causes the pressure inside the nozzle to drop below atmospheric pressure, drawing gas into the system through possible cracks or gaps in the refractory walls. In this work, a 1-D pressure-energy model of the complete metal delivery system from the tundish to the mold is developed to predict the pressure distribution and throughput under dynamic operating conditions and varying clogging conditions. The energy balance approach includes pressure losses in the slide-gate, wall friction, and nozzle geometry variations, including the effects of multiphase flow due to argon gas injection. The model also predicts air aspiration, oxide inclusion formation, and the time for clogging shutdown. The predicted pressure distribution is verified with a three-dimensional numerical simulation of multiphase turbulent flow, and is validated with plant measurements. Parametric studies with different submerged entry nozzle (SEN) designs revealed that a smaller SEN diameter may lessen negative pressure by redistributing the pressure loss from the slide-gate to the entire nozzle through increased friction losses. Under negative pressure, a submillimeter-thin gap was shown to cause considerable air aspiration. Clogging shutdown times were evaluated for several scenarios under static and dynamic operating conditions.
Mobilome Analysis of Achromobacter spp. Isolates from Chronic and Occasional Lung Infection in Cystic Fibrosis Patients
Authors: Veschetti Laura , Sandri Angela , Patuzzo Cristina , Melotti Paola , Malerba Giovanni , Lleò Maria M.
Published: January 2021

Achromobacter spp. is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause lung infections in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Although a variety of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) carrying antimicrobial resistance genes have been identified in clinical isolates, little is known about the contribution of Achromobacter spp. mobilome to its pathogenicity. To provide new insights, we performed bioinformatic analyses of 54 whole genome sequences and investigated the presence of phages, insertion sequences (ISs), and integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs). Most of the detected phages were previously described in other pathogens and carried type II toxin-antitoxin systems as well as other pathogenic genes. Interestingly, the partial sequence of phage Bcep176 was found in all the analyzed Achromobacter xylosoxidans genome sequences, suggesting the integration of this phage in an ancestor strain. A wide variety of IS was also identified either inside of or in proximity to pathogenicity islands. Finally, ICEs carrying pathogenic genes were found to be widespread among our isolates and seemed to be involved in transfer events within the CF lung. These results highlight the contribution of MGEs to the pathogenicity of Achromobacter species, their potential to become antimicrobial targets, and the need for further studies to better elucidate their clinical impact.
Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae of Lineage ST66-K2 Caused Tonsillopharyngitis in a German Patient
Authors: Klaper Kathleen , Wendt Sebastian , Lübbert Christoph , Lippmann Norman , Pfeifer Yvonne , Werner Guido
Published: January 2021

Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKp) is a novel pathotype that has been rarely described in Europe. This study characterizes a hvKp isolate that caused a community-acquired infection. The hypermucoviscous Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) strain 18-0005 was obtained from a German patient with tonsillopharyngitis in 2017. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed and the genome was sequenced by Illumina and Nanopore technology. Whole genome data were analyzed by conducting core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis. Virulence genes were predicted by applying Kleborate. Phenotypic and whole genome analyses revealed a high similarity of the study isolate 18-0005 to the recently reported antibiotic-susceptible hvKp isolate SB5881 from France and the “ancestral” strain Kp52.145; both were assigned to the ST66-K2 lineage. Comparative genomic analysis of the three plasmids showed that the 18-0005 plasmid II differs from SB5881 plasmid II by an additional 3 kb integrated fragment of plasmid I. Our findings demonstrate the genetic flexibility of hvKp and the occurrence of a strain of the clonal group CG66-K2 in Germany. Hence, it emphasizes the need to improve clinical awareness and infection monitoring of hvKp.
HbxB Is a Key Regulator for Stress Response and β-Glucan Biogenesis in Aspergillus nidulans
Authors: Son Sung-Hun , Lee Mi-Kyung , Son Ye-Eun , Park Hee-Soo
Published: January 2021

Homeobox transcription factors are conserved in eukaryotes and act as multi-functional transcription factors in filamentous fungi. Previously, it was demonstrated that HbxB governs fungal development and spore viability in Aspergillus nidulans. Here, the role of HbxB in A. nidulans was further characterized. RNA-sequencing revealed that HbxB affects the transcriptomic levels of genes associated with trehalose biosynthesis and response to thermal, oxidative, and radiation stresses in asexual spores called conidia. A phenotypic analysis found that hbxB deletion mutant conidia were more sensitive to ultraviolet stress. The loss of hbxB increased the mRNA expression of genes associated with β-glucan degradation and decreased the amount of β-glucan in conidia. In addition, hbxB deletion affected the expression of the sterigmatocystin gene cluster and the amount of sterigmatocystin. Overall, these results indicated that HbxB is a key transcription factor regulating trehalose biosynthesis, stress tolerance, β-glucan degradation, and sterigmatocystin production in A.nidulans conidia.
The Geological Occurrence, Mineralogy, and Processing by Flotation of Platinum Group Minerals (PGMs) in South Africa and Russia
Authors: O’Connor Cyril , Alexandrova Tatiana
Published: January 2021

Russia and South Africa are the world’s leading producers of platinum group elements (PGEs). This places them in a unique position regarding the supply of these two key industrial commodities. The purpose of this paper is to provide a comparative high-level overview of aspects of the geological occurrence, mineralogy, and processing by flotation of the platinum group minerals (PGMs) found in each country. A summary of some of the major challenges faced in each country in terms of the concentration of the ores by flotation is presented alongside the opportunities that exist to increase the production of the respective metals. These include the more efficient recovery of minerals such as arsenides and tellurides, the management of siliceous gangue and chromite in the processing of these ores, and, especially in Russia, the development of novel processing routes to recover PGEs from relatively low grade ores occurring in dunites, black shale ores and in vanadium-iron-titanium-sulphide oxide formations.
Erratum: Cheng, Z.Y., et al. Casticin Induces DNA Damage and Affects DNA Repair Associated Protein Expression in Human Lung Cancer A549 Cells (Running Title: Casticin Induces DNA Damage in Lung Cancer Cells). Molecules 2020, 25, 341
Authors: Editorial Office Molecules
Published: January 2021

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Application of Octanohydroxamic Acid for Salting out Liquid–Liquid Extraction of Materials for Energy Storage in Supercapacitors
Authors: Rorabeck Kaelan , Zhitomirsky Igor
Published: January 2021

The ability to achieve high areal capacitance for oxide-based supercapacitor electrodes with high active mass loadings is critical for practical applications. This paper reports the feasibility of the fabrication of Mn3O4-multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composites by the new salting-out method, which allows direct particle transfer from an aqueous synthesis medium to a 2-propanol suspension for the fabrication of advanced Mn3O4-MWCNT electrodes for supercapacitors. The electrodes show enhanced capacitive performance at high active mass loading due to reduced particle agglomeration and enhanced mixing of the Mn3O4 particles and conductive MWCNT additives. The strategy is based on the multifunctional properties of octanohydroxamic acid, which is used as a capping and dispersing agent for Mn3O4 synthesis and an extractor for particle transfer to the electrode processing medium. Electrochemical studies show that high areal capacitance is achieved at low electrode resistance. The electrodes with an active mass of 40.1 mg cm−2 show a capacitance of 4.3 F cm−2 at a scan rate of 2 mV s−1. Electron microscopy studies reveal changes in electrode microstructure during charge-discharge cycling, which can explain the increase in capacitance. The salting-out method is promising for the development of advanced nanocomposites for energy storage in supercapacitors.
Synergistic Antimicrobial Effectiveness of Plant Essential Oil and Its Application in Seafood Preservation: A Review
Authors: Huang Xianpei , Lao Yuli , Pan Yifeng , Chen Yiping , Zhao Haiming , Gong Liang , Xie Nanbin , Mo Ce-Hui
Published: January 2021

The synergistic potential of plant essential oils (EOs) with other conventional and non-conventional antimicrobial agents is a promising strategy for increasing antimicrobial efficacy and controlling foodborne pathogens. Spoilage microorganisms are one of main concerns of seafood products, while the prevention of seafood spoilage principally requires exclusion or inactivation of microbial activity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent studies on the synergistic antimicrobial effect of EOs combined with other available chemicals (such as antibiotics, organic acids, and plant extracts) or physical methods (such as high hydrostatic pressure, irradiation, and vacuum-packaging) utilized to reduce the growth of foodborne pathogens and/or to extend the shelf-life of seafood products. This review highlights the synergistic ability of EOs when used as a seafood preservative, discovering the possible routes of the combined techniques for the development of a novel seafood preservation strategy.
Fiber Optical Hydrogen Sensor Based on WO3-Pd2Pt-Pt Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Dai Jixiang , Li Yi , Ruan Hongbo , Ye Zhuang , Chai Nianyao , Wang Xuewen , Qiu Shuchang , Bai Wei , Yang Minghong
Published: January 2021

In this paper, WO3-Pd2Pt-Pt nanocomposite films were deposited on a single mode fiber as the hydrogen sensing material, which changes its reflectivity under different hydrogen concentration. The reflectivity variation was probed and converted to an electric signal by a pair of balanced InGaAs photoelectric detectors. In addition, the performance of the WO3-Pd2Pt-Pt composite film was investigated under different optical powers, and the irrigating power was optimized at 5 mW. With the irrigation of this optical power, the hydrogen sensitive film exhibits quick response toward 100 ppm hydrogen in air atmosphere at a room temperature of 25 °C. The experimental results demonstrate a high resolution at 5 parts per million (ppm) within a wide range from 100 to 5000 ppm in air. This simple and compact sensing system can detect hydrogen concentrations far below the explosion limit and provide early alert for hydrogen leakage, showing great potential in hydrogen-related applications.
The Association between Diet and Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: George Elena S. , Sood Surbhi , Broughton Anna , Cogan Georgia , Hickey Megan , Chan Wai San , Sudan Sonal , Nicoll Amanda J.
Published: January 2021

Globally, liver cancer is the sixth most common cause of cancer mortality, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most common type of primary liver cancer. Emerging evidence states that diet is recognised as a potential lifestyle-related risk factor for the development of HCC. The aim of this systematic review is to determine whether there is an association between diet and the development of HCC. Using the PRISMA guidelines, three databases (MEDLINE Complete, CINAHL and Embase) were systematically searched, and studies published until July 2020 were included. Thirty observational studies were selected. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019135240). Higher adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern, Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010, the Urban Prudent Dietary Pattern, the Traditional Cantonese Dietary Pattern, intake of vegetables, wholegrains, fish, poultry, coffee, macronutrients such as monounsaturated fats and micronutrients such as vitamin E, vitamin B9, β-carotene, manganese and potassium were associated with a reduced risk of HCC. The results suggest a potential role of diet in the development of HCC. Further quantitative research needs to be undertaken within a range of populations to investigate diet and the relationship with HCC risk.
Magnesium in Infectious Diseases in Older People
Authors: Dominguez Ligia J. , Veronese Nicola , Guerrero-Romero Fernando , Barbagallo Mario
Published: January 2021

Reduced magnesium (Mg) intake is a frequent cause of deficiency with age together with reduced absorption, renal wasting, and polypharmacotherapy. Chronic Mg deficiency may result in increased oxidative stress and low-grade inflammation, which may be linked to several age-related diseases, including higher predisposition to infectious diseases. Mg might play a role in the immune response being a cofactor for immunoglobulin synthesis and other processes strictly associated with the function of T and B cells. Mg is necessary for the biosynthesis, transport, and activation of vitamin D, another key factor in the pathogenesis of infectious diseases. The regulation of cytosolic free Mg in immune cells involves Mg transport systems, such as the melastatin-like transient receptor potential 7 channel, the solute carrier family, and the magnesium transporter 1 (MAGT1). The functional importance of Mg transport in immunity was unknown until the description of the primary immunodeficiency XMEN (X-linked immunodeficiency with Mg defect, Epstein–Barr virus infection, and neoplasia) due to a genetic deficiency of MAGT1 characterized by chronic Epstein–Barr virus infection. This and other research reporting associations of Mg deficit with viral and bacterial infections indicate a possible role of Mg deficit in the recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and its complications. In this review, we will discuss the importance of Mg for the immune system and for infectious diseases, including the recent pandemic of COVID-19.
Food Liking but Not Wanting Decreases after Controlled Intermittent or Continuous Energy Restriction to ≥5% Weight Loss in Women with Overweight/Obesity
Authors: Oustric Pauline , Beaulieu Kristine , Casanova Nuno , O’Connor Dominic , Gibbons Catherine , Hopkins Mark , Blundell John , Finlayson Graham
Published: January 2021

Food reward (i.e., liking and wanting) has been shown to decrease after different types of weight management interventions. However, it is unknown whether specific dietary modalities (continuous (CER) vs. intermittent (IER) energy restriction) have differing effects on liking and implicit wanting after weight loss (WL) and whether these changes are sustained after 1-year of no-contact. Women with overweight or obesity (age 18–55 years) were randomly allocated to controlled-feeding CER (25% daily energy restriction) or IER (alternating ad libitum and 75% energy restriction days). Study visits were conducted at baseline, post-WL (to ≥5% WL within 12 weeks) and 1-year post-WL. The main outcomes were liking and implicit wanting for 4 categories of common food varying in fat and taste assessed by the Leeds Food Preference Questionnaire. Linear mixed models were conducted on the 30 participants achieving ≥5% WL and 15 returners. After an initial WL of −5.1 ± 0.2 kg, after 1-year 2.6 ± 0.5 kg were regained. Liking but not wanting decreased after WL. Food reward after 1-year did not differ from baseline, but the high loss to follow-up prevents generalization. IER and CER did not differ in their effects on food reward during WL or at 1-year follow-up.
Physicochemical and Medicinal Properties of Tualang, Gelam and Kelulut Honeys: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Mohd Kamal Datu Agasi , Ibrahim Siti Fatimah , Kamal Haziq , Kashim Mohd Izhar Ariff Mohd , Mokhtar Mohd Helmy
Published: January 2021

Tualang, Gelam and Kelulut honeys are tropical rainforest honeys reported to have various medicinal properties. Studies related to the medicinal properties and physicochemical characteristics of these honeys are growing extensively and receiving increased attention. This review incorporated and analysed the findings on the biological and physicochemical properties of these honeys. Tualang, Gelam and Kelulut honeys were found to possess a wide variety of biological effects attributed to their physicochemical characteristics. Findings revealed that these honeys have anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, anti-oxidative, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties and effects on the cardiovascular system, nervous system and reproductive system. The physicochemical properties of these honeys were compared and discussed and results showed that they have high-quality contents and excellent antioxidant sources.
Nutritional Support of Neurodevelopment and Cognitive Function in Infants and Young Children—An Update and Novel Insights
Authors: Cohen Kadosh Kathrin , Muhardi Leilani , Parikh Panam , Basso Melissa , Jan Mohamed Hamid Jan , Prawitasari Titis , Samuel Folake , Ma Guansheng , Geurts Jan M. W.
Published: January 2021

Proper nutrition is crucial for normal brain and neurocognitive development. Failure to optimize neurodevelopment early in life can have profound long-term implications for both mental health and quality of life. Although the first 1000 days of life represent the most critical period of neurodevelopment, the central and peripheral nervous systems continue to develop and change throughout life. All this time, development and functioning depend on many factors, including adequate nutrition. In this review, we outline the role of nutrients in cognitive, emotional, and neural development in infants and young children with special attention to the emerging roles of polar lipids and high quality (available) protein. Furthermore, we discuss the dynamic nature of the gut-brain axis and the importance of microbial diversity in relation to a variety of outcomes, including brain maturation/function and behavior are discussed. Finally, the promising therapeutic potential of psychobiotics to modify gut microbial ecology in order to improve mental well-being is presented. Here, we show that the individual contribution of nutrients, their interaction with other micro- and macronutrients and the way in which they are organized in the food matrix are of crucial importance for normal neurocognitive development.
Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) Gene Polymorphism in Patients Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Latacz Maria , Rozmus Dominika , Fiedorowicz Ewa , Snarska Jadwiga , Jarmołowska Beata , Kordulewska Natalia , Savelkoul Huub , Cieślińska Anna
Published: January 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most commonly occurring neoplasias in humans. The prevalence of CRC rates is still rising. Although the exact background of the disease still remains unknown, it is believed that CRC may not only be a result of environmental factors, but also genetic ones. One of the mechanisms underlying CRC might be the vitamin D pathway, as CRC is the most closely linked neoplasia to vitamin D deficiency. This study shows a possible association of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms FokI, BsmI, ApaI, and TaqI with CRC susceptibility. A total of 103 patients diagnosed with CRC (61 men and 42 women, aged 57–82 years) and 109 healthy people (50 men and 59 women, aged 47–68 years) were genotyped using PCR-RFLP for FokI, BsmI, ApaI, and TaqI. None of the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) individually increased or decreased the risk of CRC. The evaluation of haplotypes revealed two that might enhance the likelihood of CRC development: taB (OR = 30.22; 95% CI 2.81–325.31; p = 0.01) and tAb (OR = 3.84; 95% CI 1.29–11.38; p = 0.01). In conclusion, genotyping is an easy and robust procedure that needs to be performed only once in a lifetime. A creation of a relevant SNP’s panel might contribute to the identification of the groups that are at the greatest risk of CRC.
Liver Abnormalities after Elimination of HCV Infection: Persistent Epigenetic and Immunological Perturbations Post-Cure
Authors: Polyak Stephen J. , Crispe I. Nicholas , Baumert Thomas F.
Published: January 2021

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. While directly acting antiviral (DAA) drugs are now able to cure virtually all hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, even in subjects with advanced liver disease, what happens to the liver and progression of the disease after DAA-induced cure of viremia is only beginning to emerge. Several large-scale clinical studies in different patient populations have shown that patients with advanced liver disease maintain a risk for developing HCC even when the original instigator, the virus, is eliminated by DAAs. Here we review emerging studies derived from multiple, complementary experimental systems involving patient liver tissues, human liver cell cultures, human liver slice cultures, and animal models, showing that HCV infection induces epigenetic, signaling, and gene expression changes in the liver associated with altered hepatic innate immunity and liver cancer risk. Of critical importance is the fact that these virus-induced abnormalities persist after DAA cure of HCV. These nascent findings portend the discovery of pathways involved in post-HCV immunopathogenesis, which may be clinically actionable targets for more comprehensive care of DAA-cured individuals.
Whole-Genome Sequencing Analysis of Salmonella Enterica Serotype Enteritidis Isolated from Poultry Sources in South Korea, 2010–2017
Authors: Hyeon Ji-Yeon , Li Shaoting , Mann David A. , Zhang Shaokang , Kim Kyu-Jik , Lee Dong-Hun , Deng Xiangyu , Song Chang-Seon
Published: January 2021

Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serotype Enteritidis (SE) is recognized as a major cause of human salmonellosis worldwide, and most human salmonellosis is due to the consumption of contaminated poultry meats and poultry byproducts. Whole-genome sequencing (data were obtained from 96 SE isolates from poultry sources, including an integrated broiler supply chain, farms, slaughterhouses, chicken transporting trucks, and retail chicken meats in South Korea during 2010–2017. Antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes were investigated using WGS data, and the phylogenetic relationship of the isolates was analyzed using single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) typing and core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST). All isolates carried aminoglycoside resistance genes, aac(6’)-Iaa, and 56 isolates carried multiple antimicrobial resistance genes. The most frequent virulence gene profile, pef-fim-sop-inv.-org-sip-spa-sif-fli-flg-hil-ssa-sse-prg-pag-spv, was found in 90 isolates. The SNP analysis provided a higher resolution than the cgMLST analysis, but the cgMLST analysis was highly congruent with the SNP analysis. The phylogenetic results suggested the presence of resident SE within the facility of processing plants, environments of slaughterhouses, and the integrated broiler supply chain, and the phylogenetically related isolates were found in retail meats. In addition, the SE isolates from different origins showed close genetic relationships indicating that these strains may have originated from a common source. This study could be valuable reference data for future traceback investigations in South Korea.
Porcine Gammaherpesviruses in Italian Commercial Swine Population: Frequent but Harmless
Authors: Franzo Giovanni , Drigo Michele , Legnardi Matteo , Grassi Laura , Menandro Maria Luisa , Pasotto Daniela , Cecchinato Mattia , Tucciarone Claudia Maria
Published: January 2021

Differently from alpha- and betaherpesviruses affecting swine, interest in the recently discovered Suid gammaherpesvirus 3, Suid gammaherpesvirus 4, and Suid gammaherpesvirus 5, also known as porcine lymphotropic herpesviruses (PLHV-1, PLHV-2, and PLHV-3), has largely focused on their role as potential zoonotic agents in cases of xenotransplantation. However, their role as primary pathogens of swine or as co-factors for other lymphotropic infections has essentially been neglected. The present study aims at filling this gap, evaluating the association between PLHVs infection and different clinical conditions and/or porcine circovirus (PCV) co-infection. One hundred seventy-six samples were obtained from different animals located in a high-density pig area of Northern Italy in the period 2017–2020. The presence of PLHVs and PCVs was tested and quantified by specific real-time PCR: PLHVs were widespread among pigs (PLHV-1, PLHV-2, and PLHV-3 prevalence was 28.97%, 10.79%, and 4.54%, respectively) and detected in all considered tissues and clinical conditions. Frequent co-infections were also observed among PLHVs and with PCVs, although a significant association was not detected with the exception of a positive interaction between PLHV-1 and PLHV-3, and a negative one between PLHV-2 and PCV-2. Significantly, no association between PLHVs, alone or in co-infection, emerged with any of the considered clinical signs, their frequency being comparable between healthy and diseased animals. Based on these pieces of evidence and despite their high prevalence, PLHVs’ relevance for the swine industry appears negligible, either as primary pathogens or as predisposing factors for circovirus-induced diseases.
Can Previous Associations of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in the TLR2, NOD1, CXCR5, and IL10 Genes in the Susceptibility to and Severity of Chlamydia trachomatis Infections Be Confirmed?
Authors: Jukema Jelmer B. , Hoenderboom Bernice M. , van Benthem Birgit H. B. , van der Sande Marianne A. B. , de Vries Henry J. C. , Hoebe Christian J. P. A. , Dukers-Muijrers Nicole H. T. M. , Bax Caroline J. , Morré Servaas A. , Ouburg Sander
Published: January 2021

Clear inter-individual differences exist in the response to C. trachomatis (CT) infections and reproductive tract complications in women. Host genetic variation like single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been associated with differences in response to CT infection, and SNPs might be used as a genetic component in a tubal-pathology predicting algorithm. Our aim was to confirm the role of four genes by investigating proven associated SNPs in the susceptibility and severity of a CT infection. A total of 1201 women from five cohorts were genotyped and analyzed for TLR2 + 2477 G > A, NOD1 + 32656 T −> GG, CXCR5 + 10950 T > C, and IL10 − 1082 A > G. Results confirmed that NOD1 + 32656 T −>GG was associated with an increased risk of a symptomatic CT infection (OR: 1.9, 95%CI: 1.1–3.4, p = 0.02), but we did not observe an association with late complications. IL10 − 1082 A > G appeared to increase the risk of late complications (i.e., ectopic pregnancy/tubal factor infertility) following a CT infection (OR = 2.8, 95%CI: 1.1–7.1, p = 0.02). Other associations were not found. Confirmatory studies are important, and large cohorts are warranted to further investigate SNPs’ role in the susceptibility and severity of a CT infection.
Immune Cell Production Is Targeted by Parasitoid Wasp Virulence in a Drosophila–Parasitoid Wasp Interaction
Authors: Trainor Jordann E. , KR Pooja , Mortimer Nathan T.
Published: January 2021

The interactions between Drosophila melanogaster and the parasitoid wasps that infect Drosophila species provide an important model for understanding host–parasite relationships. Following parasitoid infection, D. melanogaster larvae mount a response in which immune cells (hemocytes) form a capsule around the wasp egg, which then melanizes, leading to death of the parasitoid. Previous studies have found that host hemocyte load; the number of hemocytes available for the encapsulation response; and the production of lamellocytes, an infection induced hemocyte type, are major determinants of host resistance. Parasitoids have evolved various virulence mechanisms to overcome the immune response of the D. melanogaster host, including both active immune suppression by venom proteins and passive immune evasive mechanisms. We identified a previously undescribed parasitoid species, Asobara sp. AsDen, which utilizes an active virulence mechanism to infect D. melanogaster hosts. Asobara sp. AsDen infection inhibits host hemocyte expression of msn, a member of the JNK signaling pathway, which plays a role in lamellocyte production. Asobara sp. AsDen infection restricts the production of lamellocytes as assayed by hemocyte cell morphology and altered msn expression. Our findings suggest that Asobara sp. AsDen infection alters host signaling to suppress immunity.