bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Technologies to Decrease the Chemical Risk of Hospital Wastewater and Urine
Authors: Moratalla Ángela , Cotillas Salvador , Lacasa Engracia , Cañizares Pablo , Rodrigo Manuel A. , Sáez Cristina
Published: November 2021

The inefficiency of conventional biological processes to remove pharmaceutical compounds (PhCs) in wastewater is leading to their accumulation in aquatic environments. These compounds are characterized by high toxicity, high antibiotic activity and low biodegradability, and their presence is causing serious environmental risks. Because much of the PhCs consumed by humans are excreted in the urine, hospital effluents have been considered one of the main routes of entry of PhCs into the environment. In this work, a critical review of the technologies employed for the removal of PhCs in hospital wastewater was carried out. This review provides an overview of the current state of the developed technologies for decreasing the chemical risks associated with the presence of PhCs in hospital wastewater or urine in the last years, including conventional treatments (filtration, adsorption, or biological processes), advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) and electrochemical advanced oxidation processes (EAOPs).
Diterpenes/Diterpenoids and Their Derivatives as Potential Bioactive Leads against Dengue Virus: A Computational and Network Pharmacology Study
Authors: Khan Rasel Ahmed , Hossain Rajib , Siyadatpanah Abolghasem , Al-Khafaji Khattab , Khalipha Abul Bashar Ripon , Dey Dipta , Asha Umma Hafsa , Biswas Partha , Saikat Abu Saim Mohammad , Chenari Hadi Ahmadi , Wilairatana Polrat , Islam Muhammad Torequl
Published: November 2021

Dengue fever is a dangerous infectious endemic disease that affects over 100 nations worldwide, from Africa to the Western Pacific, and is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted to humans by an insect bite of Aedes aegypti. Millions of citizens have died as a result of dengue fever and dengue hemorrhagic fever across the globe. Envelope (E), serine protease (NS3), RNA-directed RNA polymerase (NS5), and non-structural protein 1 (NS1) are mostly required for cell proliferation and survival. Some of the diterpenoids and their derivatives produced by nature possess anti-dengue viral properties. The goal of the computational study was to scrutinize the effectiveness of diterpenoids and their derivatives against dengue viral proteins through in silico study. Methods: molecular docking was performed to analyze the binding affinity of compounds against four viral proteins: the envelope (E) protein, the NS1 protein, the NS3 protein, and the NS5 protein. Results: among the selected drug candidates, triptolide, stevioside, alepterolic acid, sphaeropsidin A, methyl dodovisate A, andrographolide, caesalacetal, and pyrimethamine have demonstrated moderate to good binding affinities (−8.0 to −9.4 kcal/mol) toward the selected proteins: E protein, NS3, NS5, and NS1 whereas pyrimethamine exerts −7.5, −6.3, −7.8, and −6.6 kcal/mol with viral proteins, respectively. Interestingly, the binding affinities of these lead compounds were better than those of an FDA-approved anti-viral medication (pyrimethamine), which is underused in dengue fever. Conclusion: we can conclude that diterpenoids can be considered as a possible anti-dengue medication option. However, in vivo investigation is recommended to back up the conclusions of this study.
Design of Metasurface with Nanoslits on Elliptical Curves for Generation of Dual-Channel Vector Beams
Authors: Ren Xiaorong , Gu Manna , Zeng Xiangyu , Sun Rui , Zhang Yuqin , Zhan Zijun , Li Lianmeng , Li Dawei , Ma Hong , Cheng Chuanfu , Liu Chunxiang
Published: November 2021

The manipulations of nanoscale multi-channel vector beams (VBs) by metasurfaces hold potential applications in various important fields. In this paper, the metasurface with two sets of nanoslits arranged on elliptic curves was proposed to generate the dual-channel focused vector beams (FVBs). Each set of nanoslits was composed of the in-phase and the out-of-phase groups of nanoslits to introduce the constructive interference and destructive interference of the output light field of the nanoslits, focusing the converted spin component and eliminating the incident spin component at the focal point. The two sets of nanoslits for the channels at the two focal points were interleaved on the same ellipses, and by setting their parameters independently, the FVBs in the two channels are generated under illumination of linearly polarized light, while their orders and polarization states of FVBs were controlled independently. The generation of the FVBs with the designed metasurfaces was demonstrated by the finite-difference time domain (FDTD) simulations and by the experimental verifications. The work in this paper is of great significance for the generation of miniaturized multi-channel VBs and for broadening the applications of metasurfaces.
High Sensitivity of Ammonia Sensor through 2D Black Phosphorus/Polyaniline Nanocomposite
Authors: Wu Zuquan , Liang Lei , Zhu Shibu , Guo Yifan , Yao Yao , Yang Yong , Gu Shifu , Zhou Zuowan
Published: November 2021

Recently, as a two-dimensional (2D) material, black phosphorous (BP) has attracted more and more attention. However, few efforts have been made to investigate the BP/polyaniline (PANI) nanocomposite for ammonia (NH3) gas sensors. In this work, the BP/PANI nanocomposite as a novel sensing material for NH3 detection, has been synthesized via in situ chemical oxidative polymerization, which is then fabricated onto the interdigitated transducer (IDTs). The electrical properties of the BP/PANI thin film are studied in a large detection range from 1 to 4000 ppm, such as conduction mechanism, response, reproducibility, and selectivity. The experimental result indicates that the BP/PANI sensor shows higher sensitivity and larger detection range than that of PANI. The BP added into PANI, that may enlarge the specific surface area, obtain the special trough structure for gas channels, and form the p–π conjugation system and p–p isotype heterojunctions, which are beneficial to increase the response of BP/PANI to NH3 sensing. Meanwhile, in order to support the discussion result, the structure and morphology of the BP/PANI are respectively measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV−vis), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and field emissions scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Moreover, the sensor shows good reproducibility, and fast response and recovery behavior, on NH3 sensing. In addition, this route may offer the advantages of an NH3 sensor, which are of simple structure, low cost, easy to assemble, and operate at room temperature.
Facile Synthesis of Microporous Carbons from Biomass Waste as High Performance Supports for Dehydrogenation of Formic Acid
Authors: Cao Tingting , Cheng Jinke , Ma Jun , Yang Chunliang , Yao Mengqin , Liu Fei , Deng Min , Wang Xiaodan , Ren Yuan
Published: November 2021

Formic acid (FA) is found to be a potential candidate for the storage of hydrogen. For dehydrogenation of FA, the supports of our catalysts were acquired by conducting ZnCl2 treatment and carbonation for biomass waste. The texture and surface properties significantly affected the size and dispersion of Pd and its interaction with the support so as to cause the superior catalytic performance of catalysts. Microporous carbon obtained by carbonization of ZnCl2 activated peanut shells (CPS-ZnCl2) possessing surface areas of 629 m2·g−1 and a micropore rate of 73.5%. For ZnCl2 activated melon seed (CMS-ZnCl2), the surface area and micropore rate increased to 1081 m2·g−1 and 80.0%, respectively. In addition, the introduction of ZnCl2 also caused the increase in surface O content and reduced the acidity of the catalyst. The results represented that CMS-ZnCl2 with uniform honeycomb morphology displayed the best properties, and the as-prepared Pd/CMS-ZnCl2 catalyst afforded 100% hydrogen selectivity as well as excellent catalytic activity with an initial high turnover number (TON) value of 28.3 at 30 °C and 100.1 at 60 °C.
Optical Efficiency Enhancement of Nanojet-Based Dielectric Double-Material Color Splitters for Image Sensor Applications
Authors: Shramkova Oksana , Drazic Valter , Varghese Bobin , Blondé Laurent , Allié Valerie
Published: November 2021

We propose a new type of color splitter, which guides a selected bandwidth of incident light towards the proper photosensitive area of the image sensor by exploiting the nanojet (NJ) beam phenomenon. Such splitting can be performed as an alternative to filtering out part of the received light on each color subpixel. We propose to split the incoming light thanks to a new type of NJ-based near-field focusing double-material element with an insert. To suppress crosstalk, we use a Deep-Trench Isolation (DTI) structure. We demonstrate that the use of a dielectric insert block allows for reduction in the size of the color splitting element. By changing the position of the DTI, the functionality of separating blue, green and red light can be improved.
Benzodiazepines: Uses, Dangers, and Clinical Considerations
Authors: Edinoff Amber N. , Nix Catherine A. , Hollier Janice , Sagrera Caroline E. , Delacroix Blake M. , Abubakar Tunde , Cornett Elyse M. , Kaye Adam M. , Kaye Alan D.
Published: November 2021

Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are among one of the most widely prescribed drug classes in the United States. BZDs are a class of psychoactive drugs known for their depressant effect on the central nervous system (CNS). They quickly diffuse through the blood–brain barrier to affect the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA and exert sedative effects. Related to their rapid onset and immediate symptom relief, BZDs are used for those struggling with sleep, anxiety, spasticity due to CNS pathology, muscle relaxation, and epilepsy. One of the debilitating side effects of BZDs is their addictive potential. The dependence on BZDs generally leads to withdrawal symptoms, requiring careful tapering of the medication when prescribed. Regular use of BZDs has been shown to cause severe, harmful psychological and physical dependence, leading to withdrawal symptoms similar to that of alcohol withdrawal. Some of these withdrawal symptoms can be life threatening. The current treatment for withdrawal is through tapering with clonazepam. Many drugs have been tested as a treatment for withdrawal, with few proving efficacious in randomized control trials. Future research is warranted for further exploration into alternative methods of treating BZD withdrawal. This call to action proves especially relevant, as those seeking treatment for BZD dependence and withdrawal are on the rise in the United States.
Changes in Plasma Choline and the Betaine-to-Choline Ratio in Response to 6-Month Lifestyle Intervention Are Associated with the Changes of Lipid Profiles and Intestinal Microbiota: The ICAAN Study
Authors: Jang HanByul , Lim Hyunjung , Park Kyung-Hee , Park SangIck , Lee Hye-Ja
Published: November 2021

Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and its precursors, including choline, betaine, and L-carnitine, are gut microbiota-related metabolites associated with the risk of obesity. We aimed (1) to comprehensively examine whether the changes in plasma TMAO and its precursors induced by lifestyle intervention are associated with the improvements in plasma metabolic parameters; and (2) to identify the fecal microbiome profiles and nutrient intakes associated with these metabolites and metabolic index. Data from 40 participants (obese children and adolescents) having the plasma metabolites data related to the changes in BMI z-scores after 6-month lifestyle intervention were analyzed. In this study, we observed that choline and the betaine-to-choline ratio (B/C) showed different patterns depending on the changes in BMI z-scores by the response to lifestyle intervention. During the 6 months, an increase in choline and a decrease in B/C were observed in non-responders. We also found that changes in choline and B/C were associated with the improvements in plasma lipid levels. Individuals who showed reduced choline or increased B/C from the baseline to 6 months had a significant decrease in LDL-cholesterol over 6 months compared to those with increased choline or decreased B/C, respectively. In addition, the increase in choline or decrease in B/C was associated with the increase in plasma triglycerides. The distribution of gut microbiota belonging to the Firmicutes, such as Clostridia, Clostridiales, Peptostreptococcaceae, Romboutsia, and Romboutsia timonensis was altered to be lower during the 6 months both as choline decreased and B/C increased. Moreover, the decrease in choline and the increase in B/C were associated with reduced fat intake and increased fiber intake after the 6-month intervention. Finally, lower abundance of Romboutsia showed the association with lower LDL-cholesterol and higher intake of fiber. In summary, we demonstrated that reduced choline and increased B/C by lifestyle intervention were associated with the improvements of LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides, low-fat and high-fiber intakes, and low abundance of Firmicutes. These indicate that changes to circulating choline and B/C could predict individuals’ changes in metabolic compositions in response to the lifestyle intervention.
A Machine Learning-Based Screening Test for Sarcopenic Dysphagia Using Image Recognition
Authors: Sakai Kotomi , Gilmour Stuart , Hoshino Eri , Nakayama Enri , Momosaki Ryo , Sakata Nobuo , Yoneoka Daisuke
Published: November 2021

Background: Sarcopenic dysphagia, a swallowing disorder caused by sarcopenia, is prevalent in older patients and can cause malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia. This study aimed to develop a simple screening test using image recognition with a low risk of droplet transmission for sarcopenic dysphagia. Methods: Older patients admitted to a post-acute care hospital were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. As a main variable for the development of a screening test, we photographed the anterior neck to analyze the image features of sarcopenic dysphagia. The studied image features included the pixel values and the number of feature points. We constructed screening models using the image features, age, sex, and body mass index. The prediction performance of each model was investigated. Results: A total of 308 patients participated, including 175 (56.82%) patients without dysphagia and 133 (43.18%) with sarcopenic dysphagia. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC-AUC), sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the precision-recall curve (PR-AUC) values of the best model were 0.877, 87.50%, 76.67%, 66.67%, 92.00%, and 0.838, respectively. The model with image features alone showed an ROC-AUC of 0.814 and PR-AUC of 0.726. Conclusions: The screening test for sarcopenic dysphagia using image recognition of neck appearance had high prediction performance.
Genistein Regulates Lipid Metabolism via Estrogen Receptor β and Its Downstream Signal Akt/mTOR in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Qin Hong , Song Ziyu , Shaukat Horia , Zheng Wenya
Published: November 2021

Genistein (GEN) has been shown to significantly inhibit hepatic triglyceride accretion triggered by estrogen deficiency. The main purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the function and molecular mechanism of estrogen receptor β (ERβ) in regulating hepatic lipid metabolism induced by GEN. Different doses of GEN or GEN with an ERβ antagonist were treated with HepG2 cells. Results showed that 25 μM GEN significantly diminished triglyceride levels. Meanwhile, GEN downregulated the levels of genes and proteins involved in lipogenesis, such as sterol-regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c), fatty acid synthase (FASN), and stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1), and upregulated the gene and protein levels of the regulation factors responsible for fatty acid β-oxidation, such as carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1α (CPT-1α) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα). Furthermore, 25 μM GEN reduced the levels of phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt) and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). Moreover, most of these effects from GEN were reverted by pretreatment with the antagonist of ERβ. In conclusion, GEN improved hepatic lipid metabolism by activating ERβ and further modulation of Akt/mTOR signals. The results provide novel aspects of the regulatory mechanism of ERβ on hepatic lipid metabolism and might help to profoundly understand the functions of food-derived phytoestrogens in preventing and treating hepatic steatosis in postmenopausal women.
Effects of Different Allotments of Avocados on the Nutritional Status of Families: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Pacheco Lorena S. , Bradley Ryan D. , Denenberg Julie O. , Anderson Cheryl A. M. , Allison Matthew A.
Published: November 2021

Avocados are a nutrient-dense plant-food, but limited trial-derived evidence exists about the effects of avocado intake on family nutritional status. We investigated the impact of two levels of avocado allotment, plus a standard nutrition education intervention on the nutritional status of Hispanic/Latino families. Seventy-two families consisting of at least three members of ≥5 years of age and residing in the same home, free of severe chronic disease, not on specific diets, and self-identified of Hispanic heritage, were randomized to one of two levels of avocado allotment (low = 3/week/family or high = 14/week/family) for 6 months plus 12 bi-weekly nutrition education sessions. The primary outcomes included change in a family’s total energy and macro- and micronutrient intakes. Primary analysis was intention-to-treat with unpaired, two-sided t-tests to assess mean changes between groups at 6 months. At 6 months, the high avocado allotment group had a significant reduction in energy intake, carbohydrate, animal and vegetable protein, saturated and polyunsaturated fat, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and vitamin D intakes (all p < 0.05). A high allotment of avocados significantly reduced self-reported energy intake by 29% kcal/family/day, compared to a 3% kcal/family/day reduction in families who received a low allotment. Culturally-appropriate plant-food interventions may alter the nutritional status of at-risk families.
Short-Term Pre-Operative Protein Caloric Restriction in Elective Vascular Surgery Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Kip Peter , Sluiter Thijs J. , Moore Jodene K. , Hart Abby , Ruske Jack , O’Leary James , Jung Jonathan , Tao Ming , MacArthur Michael R. , Heindel Patrick , de Jong Alwin , de Vries Margreet R. , Burak M. Furkan , Mitchell Sarah J. , Mitchell James R. , Ozaki C. Keith
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: Vascular surgery operations are hampered by high failure rates and frequent occurrence of peri-operative cardiovascular complications. In pre-clinical studies, pre-operative restriction of proteins and/or calories (PCR) has been shown to limit ischemia-reperfusion damage, slow intimal hyperplasia, and improve metabolic fitness. However, whether these dietary regimens are feasible and safe in the vascular surgery patient population remains unknown. (2) Methods: We performed a randomized controlled trial in patients scheduled for any elective open vascular procedure. Participants were randomized in a 3:2 ratio to either four days of outpatient pre-operative PCR (30% calorie, 70% protein restriction) or their regular ad-libitum diet. Blood was drawn at baseline, pre-operative, and post-operative day 1 timepoints. A leukocyte subset flow cytometry panel was performed at these timepoints. Subcutaneous/perivascular adipose tissue was sampled and analyzed. Follow-up was one year post-op. (3) Results: 19 patients were enrolled, of whom 11 completed the study. No diet-related reasons for non-completion were reported, and there was no intervention group crossover. The PCR diet induced weight loss and BMI decrease without malnutrition. Insulin sensitivity was improved after four days of PCR (p = 0.05). Between diet groups, there were similar rates of re-intervention, wound infection, and cardiovascular complications. Leukocyte populations were maintained after four days of PCR. (4) Conclusions: Pre-operative PCR is safe and feasible in elective vascular surgery patients.
The Role of the Gluten-Free Diet in the Management of Seronegative Enteropathy
Authors: Szaflarska-Popławska Anna
Published: November 2021

The differential diagnosis and treatment of seronegative enteropathy, also termed seronegative villous atrophy (SNVA), is a clinical challenge. Although seronegative coeliac disease (CD) is a frequent cause of SNVA, the aetiology can include immune-mediated, inflammatory, infectious, and drug-related forms. As a misdiagnosis of SNVA can result in patients being unnecessarily placed on a lifelong strict gluten-free diet or even given incorrect immunosuppressive therapy, the aim of this paper is to provide an evidence-based and practical approach for the workup and management of SNVA.
A Scoping Review of Policies Related to the Prevention and Control of Overweight and Obesity in Africa
Authors: Adom Theodosia , De Villiers Anniza , Puoane Thandi , Kengne André Pascal
Published: November 2021

To address the issue of obesity, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a set of comprehensive programmes aimed at changing the obesogenic environments to provide opportunities for healthy food options and increased physical activity in the school, home, and at the population level. The objectives of this study were to examine the nature and range of policies related to overweight and obesity prevention in Africa, and to assess how they align with international guidelines. An existing methodological framework was adapted for this scoping review. A search of publicly available national documents on overweight/obesity, general health, and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) was undertaken from relevant websites, including WHO, ministries, and Google Scholar. Additional requests were sent to key contacts at relevant ministries about existing policy documents. The documents were reviewed, and the policies were categorised, using the Analysis Grid for Environments Linked to Obesity (ANGELO) framework. The framework categorises the environmental drivers of obesity into four domains (physical, economic, legislative, and socio-cultural) and two scales: macro (national, regional, sectors, food industries, media, etc.) and micro (household, institutional, and community). This review included documents from 41 African countries. The policy initiatives to prevent overweight/obesity target the school, family and community settings, and macro environments, and broadly align with global recommendations. The NCD documents were in the majority, with only two on obesity. The majority of the documents detailed strategies and key interventions on unhealthy diets and physical inactivity. The physical, legislative, and sociocultural domains were largely featured, with less emphasis on the economic domain. Additionally, nutrition- and diet-related policies were in the majority. Overlaps and interactions of policies were observed in the application of the ANGELO framework. This study has provided information on national policies and programmes in Africa and can be useful as a first point of call for policymakers. The overlapping and interaction in the initiatives demonstrate the importance of multi-sectoral partnerships in providing supportive environments for healthy behaviours.
Obesity, Sodium Homeostasis, and Arterial Hypertension in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Wójcik Małgorzata , Kozioł-Kozakowska Agnieszka
Published: November 2021

Background: The relationship between obesity, arterial hypertension, and excessive salt intake has been known for a long time; however, the mechanism of this relationship remains not clear. Methods: The paper presents a current literature review on the relationship between salt consumption and the development of arterial hypertension in children and adolescents with obesity. Results: In addition to the traditional theory of hypertension development due to the increase in intravascular volume and disturbances of sodium excretion, recent studies indicate the existence of a complex mechanism related to excessive, pathological secretory activity of adipocytes, insulin resistance, and impaired function of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone axis. That makes obese children and adolescents particularly vulnerable to the development of salt-sensitive arterial hypertension. Studies performed in many countries have shown that children and adolescents consume more sodium than recommended. It is worth noting, however, that the basis for these recommendations was the extrapolation of data from studies conducted on adults. Moreover, more important than sodium intake is the Na/K ratio and water consumption. Conclusion: Regardless of the population-wide recommendations on reducing salt intake in children, specific recommendations for overweight and obese patients should be developed.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2020–2025): Pulses, Dietary Fiber, and Chronic Disease Risk—A Call for Clarity and Action
Authors: Thompson Henry J.
Published: November 2021

The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) were recently released [...]
The Role of Vitamin D in Early Knee Osteoarthritis and Its Relationship with Their Physical and Psychological Status
Authors: Alabajos-Cea Ana , Herrero-Manley Luz , Suso-Martí Luis , Viosca-Herrero Enrique , Cuenca-Martínez Ferran , Varangot-Reille Clovis , Blanco-Díaz María , Calatayud Joaquín , Casaña José
Published: November 2021

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint condition and one of the greatest causes of disability worldwide. The role of vitamin D in the origin and development of the disease is not clear, although it could have important implications for diagnosis and treatment. For this proposal, a cross-sectional study with a non-probabilistic sample was performed. In total, 48 with early osteoarthritis (EOA) and 48 matched controls were selected, and serum 25(OH)D and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels were analyzed. In addition, physical and psychological variables were measured to establish their relationship with vitamin D levels. Patients with EOA showed lower levels (22.3 ± 7.3 ng/mL) in comparison to matched controls (29.31 ± 9.2 ng/mL). A statistically significant higher number (Chi-squared = 8.525; p = 0.004) of patients with EOA had deficiency levels (<20 ng/mL) compared to the control group. Patients with lower vitamin D levels showed higher levels of pain intensity, disability, and anxiety, as well as poorer values for sit-to-stand, walking speed, and social participation. Correlation analysis showed a relationship between serum 25(OH)D, PTH and pain intensity, and social participation. These results highlight the relevance of vitamin D in the early diagnosis and prevention of EOA.
Trimester-Specific Reference Ranges for Saturated, Monounsaturated and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Serum of Pregnant Women: A Cohort Study from the ECLIPSES Group
Authors: Martín-Grau Carla , Deulofeu Ramón , Serrat Orus Nuria , Arija Victoria ,   on behalf of the ECLIPSES Study Group
Published: November 2021

In the course of pregnancy, increasing importance is being placed on maintaining optimal fatty acid (FA) levels and particularly n-3 PUFAs to ensure correct fetal development. However, reference ranges for FA have been reported in only a few studies. Our objective is to provide quantitative reference intervals for SFAs, MUFAs, and PUFAs (n-6 and n-3) in a large population of healthy pregnant women from a developed country. A prospective study of pregnant women (n = 479) was conducted from the first trimester (T1) to the third trimester (T3). A total of 11 fatty acids were analyzed in serum by gas chromatography mass spectrometry and were expressed as absolute (µmol/L) and relative (percentage of total FA) concentration units. Serum concentrations of SFAs, MUFAs, n-6 PUFAs, n-3 PUFAs, various FA ratios, and the EFA index were determined. The reference intervals (2.5/97.5 percentiles) in absolute values from T1 ranged from 1884.32 to 8802.81 µmol/L for SFAs, from 959.91 to 2979.46 µmol/L for MUFAs, from 2325.77 to 7735.74 µmol/L for n-6 PUFAs, and from 129.01 to 495.58 µmol/L for n-3 PUFAs. These intervals mainly include the values of other studies from European populations. However, reference ranges vary according to some maternal factors. The FA levels proposed, obtained from a large sample of pregnant women, will be a useful tool for assessing the degree of adequacy of FAs in pregnant women and will help to carry out dietary interventions based on certain maternal factors.
Daily Intake and Serum Levels of Copper, Selenium and Zinc According to Glucose Metabolism: Cross-Sectional and Comparative Study
Authors: Pattan Vishwanath , Chang Villacreses Maria Mercedes , Karnchanasorn Rudruidee , Chiu Ken C. , Samoa Raynald
Published: November 2021

Trace elements play an important role in metabolism. We compared the daily intake and serum concentrations of copper (Cu), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) across a spectrum of glucose tolerance status in a representative U.S. population. Daily intake and serum concentrations of Cu, Zn and Se in 5087 adults from the 2011–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were examined and compared to normal (NGT) and abnormal (AGT) glucose tolerance and the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM). Other than Zn deficiency (21.15%), the prevalence of Zn, Se, and Cu excess and Se and Cu deficiency were low (<4.00%). As compared to the NGT group, Cu and Se supplementation was higher in the AGT and DM groups (p < 0.0001 for all). Serum Se and Zn, but not Cu, concentrations were highly correlated with daily intake (p < 0.0001 for both). As compared to the NGT group, serum Cu concentration was highest in the AGT group (p = 0.03), serum Se concentration was highest in the DM group (p < 0.0001), and serum Zn concentration was highest in the AGT group (p < 0.0001). Serum Se and Zn concentration was correlated with daily Se and Zn intake. Even within the reference range for serum Cu, Se, and Zn concentrations, a higher serum concentration of Cu, Se, and Zn was associated with abnormal glucose metabolism. Although the casual relationship remains to be elucidated, these data suggest caution in Cu, Se and Zn supplementation in non-deficient individuals.
Body Composition Assessment and Mediterranean Diet Adherence in U12 Spanish Male Professional Soccer Players: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Santos-Sánchez Guillermo , Cruz-Chamorro Ivan , Perza-Castillo José Luis , Vicente-Salar Néstor
Published: November 2021

Soccer is the most practiced team sport in the world. Due to the importance of nutrition in soccer performance, controlling the body composition and dietary guidelines of players takes place starting from lower categories. The objective of this study was to evaluate body composition and adherence to the Mediterranean diet of U12 players from a professional soccer team and to identify their dietary weak points. Seventy-one U12 male soccer players participated in the study. Weight, height, percentiles, skinfolds, and body fat were measured by a certified anthropometrist following the procedures recommended by the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry. The Mediterranean diet adherence test (KIDMED) was the questionnaire used to evaluate eating habits. In addition, a comparison was made among field positions. The results showed percentiles and body fat percentages appropriate for their age. Furthermore, the average score on the KIDMED test showed that the players generally adhered well to the Mediterranean diet, although they should improve their consumption of fruits and vegetables, as well as avoid skipping breakfast. Moreover, goalkeepers and defenders had a higher percentile BMI and percentage of fat than midfielders and forwards. In addition, these players had lower KIDMED values than midfielders and forwards. Although U12 soccer players have an appropriate body composition and adherence to the Mediterranean diet, there are differences between the different field positions that should be assessed by coaches, doctors, and nutritionists/dietitians.
Association between Caffeine Intake and All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality: An Analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2014 Database
Authors: Feng Juan , Wang Jing , Jose Mini , Seo Yaewon , Feng Li , Ge Song
Published: November 2021

Sixty-four percent of adults in America drink coffee daily, and caffeine is the main reason people tend to drink coffee habitually. Few studies have examined the association between caffeine and all-cause and cause-specific mortality. The objective of this study was to examine the association between caffeine and all-cause and cause-specific mortality using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2014 database. The multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to examine 23,878 individuals 20 years and older. Daily caffeine intake was measured once at baseline. A total of 2206 deaths occurred, including 394 cardiovascular (CVD) deaths and 525 cancer deaths. Compared to those with a caffeine intake of <100 mg/day, the hazard ratios (HRs) for CVD mortality were significantly lower in the participants with a caffeine intake of 100–200 mg/day (HR, 0.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45–0.88), and those with a caffeine intake of >200 mg/day (HR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.50–0.88) after adjusting for potential confounders. The HRs for all-cause mortality were significantly lower in the participants with a caffeine intake of 100–200 mg/day (HR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.67–0.91), and those with a caffeine intake of >200 mg/day (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.60–0.78). Subgroup analyses showed that caffeine may have different effects on all-cause mortality among different age and body mass index (BMI) groups. In conclusion, higher caffeine intake was associated with lower all-cause and CVD mortality.
“Shining a LAMP” (Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification) on the Molecular Detection of Phytopathogens Phytophthora sp. and Phytophthora cactorum in Strawberry Fields
Authors: Siegieda Dominika , Panek Jacek , Frąc Magdalena
Published: November 2021

Phytopathogenic microorganisms belonging to the genus Phytophthora have been recognized many times as causal agents of diseases that lower the yield of many plants important for agriculture. Meanwhile, Phytophthora cactorum causes crown rot and leather rot of berry fruits, mainly strawberries. However, widely-applied culture-based methods used for the detection of pathogens are time-consuming and often inaccurate. What is more, molecular techniques require costly equipment. Here we show a rapid and effective detection method for the aforementioned targets, deploying a simple molecular biology technique, Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP). We optimized assays to amplify the translation elongation factor 1-α (EF1a) gene for two targets: Phytophthora sp. And Phytophthora cactorum. We optimized the LAMP on pure strains of the pathogens, isolated from organic plantations of strawberry, and successfully validated the assay on biological material from the environment including soil samples, rhizosphere, shoots and roots of strawberry, and with SYBR Green. Our results demonstrate that a simple and reliable molecular detection method, that requires only a thermoblock and simple DNA isolation kit, can be successfully applied to detect pathogens that are difficult to separate from the field. We anticipate our findings to be a starting point for developing easier and faster modifications of the isothermal detection methods and which can be applied directly in the plantation, in particular with the use of freeze-dried reagents and chemistry, allowing observation of the results with the naked eye.
In Silico Survey and Characterization of Babesia microti Functional and Non-Functional Proteases
Authors: Florin-Christensen Monica , Wieser Sarah N. , Suarez Carlos E. , Schnittger Leonhard
Published: November 2021

Human babesiosis caused by the intraerythrocytic apicomplexan Babesia microti is an expanding tick-borne zoonotic disease that may cause severe symptoms and death in elderly or immunocompromised individuals. In light of an increasing resistance of B. microti to drugs, there is a lack of therapeutic alternatives. Species-specific proteases are essential for parasite survival and possible chemotherapeutic targets. However, the repertoire of proteases in B. microti remains poorly investigated. Herein, we employed several combined bioinformatics tools and strategies to organize and identify genes encoding for the full repertoire of proteases in the B. microti genome. We identified 64 active proteases and 25 nonactive protease homologs. These proteases can be classified into cysteine (n = 28), serine (n = 21), threonine (n = 14), asparagine (n = 7), and metallopeptidases (n = 19), which, in turn, are assigned to a total of 38 peptidase families. Comparative studies between the repertoire of B. bovis and B. microti proteases revealed differences among sensu stricto and sensu lato Babesia parasites that reflect their distinct evolutionary history. Overall, this data may help direct future research towards our understanding of the biology and pathogenicity of Babesia parasites and to explore proteases as targets for developing novel therapeutic interventions.
Erratum: Rybnikov et al. Selection for Plastic, Pathogen-Inducible Recombination in a Red Queen Model with Diploid Antagonists. Pathogens 2021, 10, 898
Authors: Rybnikov Sviatoslav , Frenkel Zeev , Korol Abraham B. , Fahima Tzion
Published: November 2021

In the original article, there was a mistake published in Figure 3 [...]
Artemisinin Binds and Inhibits the Activity of Plasmodium falciparum Ddi1, a Retroviral Aspartyl Protease
Authors: Onchieku Noah Machuki , Kumari Sonam , Pandey Rajan , Sharma Vaibhav , Kumar Mohit , Deshmukh Arunaditya , Kaur Inderjeet , Mohmmed Asif , Gupta Dinesh , Kiboi Daniel , Gaur Naseem , Malhotra Pawan
Published: November 2021

Reduced sensitivity of the human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, to Artemisinin and its derivatives (ARTs) threatens the global efforts towards eliminating malaria. ARTs have been shown to cause ubiquitous cellular and genetic insults, which results in the activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathways. The UPR restores protein homeostasis, which otherwise would be toxic to cellular survival. Here, we interrogated the role of DNA-damage inducible protein 1 (PfDdi1), a unique proteasome-interacting retropepsin in mediating the actions of the ARTs. We demonstrate that PfDdi1 is an active A2 family protease that hydrolyzes ubiquitinated proteasome substrates. Treatment of P. falciparum parasites with ARTs leads to the accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins in the parasites and blocks the destruction of ubiquitinated proteins by inhibiting the PfDdi1 protease activity. Besides, whereas the PfDdi1 is predominantly localized in the cytoplasm, exposure of the parasites to ARTs leads to DNA fragmentation and increased recruitment of the PfDdi1 into the nucleus. Furthermore, we show that Ddi1 knock-out Saccharomycescerevisiae cells are more susceptible to ARTs and the PfDdI1 protein robustly restores the corresponding functions in the knock-out cells. Together, these results show that ARTs act in multiple ways; by inducing DNA and protein damage and might be impairing the damage recovery by inhibiting the activity of PfDdi1, an essential ubiquitin-proteasome retropepsin.
The Durability of Vaccine Efficacy against Ocular HSV-1 Infection Using ICP0 Mutants 0∆NLS and 0∆RING Is Lost over Time
Authors: Carr Daniel J. J. , Berube Amanda , Gershburg Edward
Published: November 2021

Vaccines to viral pathogens in experimental animal models are often deemed successful if immunization enhances resistance of the host to virus challenge as measured by cumulative survival, reduction in virus replication and spread and/or lessen or eliminate overt tissue pathology. Furthermore, the duration of the protective response against challenge is another important consideration that drives a vaccination regimen. In the current study, we assessed the durability of two related vaccines, 0∆NLS and 0∆RING, against ocular herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) challenge in mice thirty days (short-term) and one year (long-term) following the vaccine boost. The short-term vaccine efficacy study found the 0∆RING vaccine to be nearly equivalent to the 0∆NLS vaccine in comparison to vehicle-vaccinated mice in terms of controlling virus replication and preserving the visual axis. By comparison, the long-term assessment of the two vaccines found notable differences and less efficacy overall as noted below. Specifically, the results show that in comparison to vehicle-vaccinated mice, the 0∆NLS and 0∆RING vaccinated groups were more resistant in terms of survival and virus shedding following ocular challenge. Moreover, 0∆NLS vaccinated mice also possessed significantly less infectious virus in the peripheral and central nervous systems but not the cornea compared to mice vaccinated with vehicle or 0∆RING which had similar levels. However, all vaccinated groups showed similar levels of blood and lymphatic vessel genesis into the central cornea 30 days post infection. Likewise, corneal opacity was also similar among all groups of vaccinated mice following infection. Functionally, the blink response and visual acuity were 25–50% lower in vaccinated mice 30 days post infection compared to measurements taken prior to infection. The results demonstrate a dichotomy between resistance to infection and functional performance of the visual axis that collectively show an overall loss in vaccine efficacy long-term in comparison to short-term studies in a conventional prime-boost protocol.
Diagnostic Findings in a Confirmed Outbreak of Brucella ovis Infection in a Traditional Sheep Farm in Sicily (South-Italy)
Authors: Galluzzo Paola , Migliore Sergio , Cascio Silvana , Barreca Santino , Alfano Marilena , Tagliarini Antonina , Candela Anna , Piraino Chiara , Galuppo Lucia , Condorelli Lucia , Hussein Hany A. , Tittarelli Manuela , Chiarenza Giuseppina
Published: November 2021

Aim of this study is to report a laboratory investigation performed following the isolation of Brucella ovis, causing ovine epididymitis, in a traditional sheep farm in Sicily (South Italy). This disease represents a newly emerging risk for Italian livestock and is listed among diseases of EU priority (EU Reg 2016/429). Blood samples from 56 rams and 143 ewes were analyzed by both Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and Complement Fixation Test (CFT). Genital swabs from all rams and 15 lactating ewes were collected to perform real-time PCR. Eighteen serologically positive rams were slaughtered and postmortem-inspected. Samples of testicle, epididymis, lymph nodes, and urine were also collected in order to perform microbiological, molecular, and histopathological analysis. Twelve slaughtered rams showed anatomo-pathological lesions. Real-time PCR for B. ovis BOV_A0504 gene was positive for 13 testicles and epididymis and 11 urine while B. ovis was isolated from epididymis and testicles of 7 slaughtered rams. This is the first exhaustive laboratory report of a microbiological, molecular, and serological pattern of the disease in sheep in Italy. Despite the impact on health and animal welfare, the epidemiology of B. ovis infection is still unknown, particularly in our country where the disease is considered endemic.
Discrepancies in Serology-Based and Nucleic Acid-Based Detection and Quantitation of Tomato Spotted Wilt Orthotospovirus in Leaf and Root Tissues from Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Peanut Plants
Authors: Lai Pin-Chu , Abney Mark R. , Chen Yi-Ju , Bag Sudeep , Srinivasan Rajagopalbabu
Published: November 2021

Thrips-transmitted tomato spotted wilt orthotospovirus (TSWV) causes spotted wilt disease in peanuts. A serological test (DAS-ELISA) is often used to detect TSWV in peanut leaf samples. However, in a few studies, DAS-ELISA detected more TSWV infection in root than leaf samples. It was not clear if the increased detection was due to increased TSWV accumulation in root tissue or merely an overestimation. Additionally, it was unclear if TSWV detection in asymptomatic plants would be affected by the detection technique. TSWV infection in leaf and root tissue from symptomatic and asymptomatic plants was compared via DAS-ELISA, RT-PCR, and RT-qPCR. TSWV incidence did not vary by DAS-ELISA, RT-PCR, and RT-qPCR in leaf and root samples of symptomatic plants or in leaf samples of asymptomatic plants. In contrast, significantly more TSWV infection and virus load were detected in root samples of asymptomatic plants via DAS-ELISA than other techniques suggesting that DAS-ELISA overestimated TSWV incidence and load. TSWV loads from symptomatic plants via RT-qPCR were higher in leaf than root samples, while TSWV loads in leaf and root samples from asymptomatic plants were not different but were lower than those in symptomatic plants. These findings suggested that peanut tissue type and detection technique could affect accurate TSWV detection and/or quantitation.
Stability of Rosmarinic Acid and Flavonoid Glycosides in Liquid Forms of Herbal Medicinal Products—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Bodalska Agnieszka , Kowalczyk Adam , Fecka Izabela
Published: November 2021

Peppermint leaf, sage leaf, thyme herb, and their preparations are common components of herbal medicinal products (HMPs). According to the European Pharmacopoeia guidelines, the above-mentioned plant substances are standardized for the content of essential oils, omitting polyphenols, which also have a significant impact on their activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the stability of the predominant polyphenols—rosmarinic acid, luteolin-7-O-β-glucuronide, and eriocitrin—in selected commercial liquid HMPs containing thyme, sage, and peppermint under long-term, intermediate, and accelerated testing conditions. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of these polyphenols were performed by the previously optimized and validated HPLC-DAD method. Rosmarinic acid stability was better in hydroethanolic than in an aqueous solution. The effect of the solvent on the stability of luteolin-7-O-β-glucuronide and eriocitrin could not be determined and requires further investigation. The present study is the first to analyze the stability of these compounds in commercial herbal medicinal products. The expiration dates proposed by the manufacturers of the tested HMPs did not guarantee stable levels of all analyzed polyphenols throughout the stated period. However, this study is preliminary and requires continuation on a larger number of medicinal products.
Evaluation of the Healing Effect of Ointments Based on Bee Products on Cutaneous Lesions in Wistar Rats
Authors: Andritoiu Calin Vasile , Lungu Cristina , Danu Maricel , Ivanescu Bianca , Andriescu Corina Elena , Vlase Laurian , Havarneanu Corneliu , Iurciuc (Tincu) Camelia Elena , Popa Marcel
Published: November 2021

The wound-healing capacity of ointments based on bee products was investigated in vivo on three experimental models of incision, excision and heat burn. For this purpose, four ointments were prepared with propolis, honey, apilarnil (drone brood homogenate) and a mixture of these three apitherapy products. The ointments were applied topically for 21 days. Clinical and macroscopic evaluation was performed throughout the experiment, with the recording of the re-epithelialization period and determination of the wound contraction rate on days 6 and 9. The histopathological examination was performed on days 1, 3, 12 and 21 of the treatment. The topical formulations were also characterized from a rheological point of view in order to verify their stability. HPLC analysis of propolis revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, particularly ferulic acid and p-coumaric which were found in high amounts. All ointments had beneficial effects on wound contraction and the re-epithelialization period, but the most significant result, both macroscopically and especially in terms of histological architecture, was presented by the ointment that contains all three apitherapy products, due to their synergistic effect.