bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Investigation on Influence of Two Combined Faults and Its Structure Features on Rock Burst Mechanism
Authors: Cao Anye , Liu Yaoqi , Jiang Siqi , Hao Qi , Peng Yujie , Bai Xianxi , Yang Xu
Published: December 2021

With the increase in coal mining depth, engineering geological conditions and the stress environment become more complex. Many rock bursts triggered by two combined faults have been observed in China, but the mechanism is not understood clearly. The focus of this research aims at investigating the influence of two combined faults on rock burst mechanisms. The six types of two combined faults were first introduced, and two cases were utilized to show the effects of two combined faults types on coal mining. The mechanical response of the numerical model with or without combined faults was compared, and a conceptual model was set up to explain the rock burst mechanism triggered by two combined faults. The influence of fault throw, dip, fault pillar width, and mining height on rock burst potential was analyzed. The main control factors of rock burst in six models that combined two faults were identified by an orthogonal experiment. Results show that six combinations of two faults can be identified, including stair-stepping fault, imbricate fault, graben fault, horst fault, back thrust fault, and ramp fault. The particular roof structure near the two combined faults mining preventing longwall face lateral abutment pressure from transferring to deep rock mass leads to stress concentration near the fault areas. Otherwise, a special roof structure causing the lower system stiffness of mining gives rise to the easier gathering of elastic energy in the coal pillars, which makes it easier to trigger a rock burst. There is a nonlinear relationship between fault parameters and static or dynamic load for graben faults mining. The longwall face has the highest rock burst risk when the fault throw is between 6 and 8 m, the fault dip is larger than 65°, the mining height is greater than 6 m, and the coal pillar width is less than 50 m. The stair-stepping, imbricate, horst, and ramp fault compared to the other fault types will produce higher dynamic load stress during longwall retreat. Fault pillar width is the most significant factor for different two combined faults, leading to the rise of static load stress and dynamic proneness.
Music to My Ears: Developing Kanji Stroke Knowledge through an Educational Music Game
Authors: Keehl Oleksandra G. , Melcer Edward F.
Published: December 2021

Millions of people worldwide are taking up foreign languages with logographic writing systems, such as Japanese or Chinese. Learning thousands of characters necessary for literacy in those languages is a unique challenge to those coming from alphabetic backgrounds, and sustaining motivation in the face of such a momentous task is a struggle for many students. Many games exist for this purpose, but few offer production memory practice such as writing, and the vast majority are thinly veiled flashcards. To address this gap, we created Radical Tunes—a musical kanji-writing game—which combines production practice with musical mnemonic by assigning a melody to each element of a character. We chose to utilize music as it is a powerful tool that can be employed to enhance learning and memory. In this article, we explore whether incorporating melodies into a kanji learning game can positively affect the memorization of the stroke order/direction and overall shape of several Japanese characters, similar to the mnemonic effect of adding music to text. Specifically, we conducted two experimental studies, finding that (1) music improved immersion—an important factor related to learning; and (2) there was a positive correlation between melody presence and character production, particularly for more complex characters.
The Effects of the Binder and Buffering Matrix on InSb-Based Anodes for High-Performance Rechargeable Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hoang Huy Vo Pham , Kim Il Tae , Hur Jaehyun
Published: December 2021

C-decorated intermetallic InSb (InSb–C) was developed as a novel high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). InSb nanoparticles synthesized via a mechanochemical reaction were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The effects of the binder and buffering matrix on the active InSb were investigated. Poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) was found to significantly improve the cycling stability owing to its strong hydrogen bonding. The addition of amorphous C to InSb further enhanced mechanical stability and electronic conductivity. As a result, InSb–C demonstrated good electrochemical Li-ion storage performance: a high reversible specific capacity (878 mAh·g−1 at 100 mA·g−1 after 140 cycles) and good rate capability (capacity retention of 98% at 10 A·g−1 as compared to 0.1 A·g−1). The effects of PAA and C were comprehensively studied using cyclic voltammetry, differential capacity plots, ex-situ SEM, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). In addition, the electrochemical reaction mechanism of InSb was revealed using ex-situ XRD. InSb–C exhibited a better performance than many recently reported Sb-based electrodes; thus, it can be considered as a potential anode material in LIBs.
Influencing Factors in the Synthesis of Photoactive Nanocomposites of ZnO/SiO2-Porous Heterostructures from Montmorillonite and the Study for Methyl Violet Photodegradation
Authors: Fatimah Is , Purwiandono Gani , Citradewi Putwi Widya , Sagadevan Suresh , Oh Won-Chun , Doong Ruey-an
Published: December 2021

In this work, photoactive nanocomposites of ZnO/SiO2 porous heterostructures (PCHs) were prepared from montmorillonite clay. The effects of preparation methods and Zn content on the physicochemical features and photocatalytic properties were investigated. Briefly, a comparison of the use of hydrothermal and microwave-assisted methods was done. The Zn content was varied between 5 and 15 wt% and the characteristics of the nanomaterials were also examined. The physical and chemical properties of the materials were characterized using X-ray diffraction, diffuse-reflectance UV-Vis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and gas sorption analyses. The morphology of the synthesized materials was characterized through scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The photocatalytic performance of the prepared materials was quantified through the photocatalytic degradation of methyl violet (MV) under irradiation with UV and visible light. It was found that PCHs exhibit greatly improved physicochemical characteristics as photocatalysts, resulting in boosting photocatalytic activity for the degradation of MV. It was found that varied synthesis methods and Zn content strongly affected the specific surface area, pore distribution, and band gap energy of PCHs. In addition, the band gap energy was found to govern the photoactivity. Additionally, the surface parameters of the PCHs were found to contribute to the degradation mechanism. It was found that the prepared PCHs demonstrated excellent photocatalytic activity and reusability, as seen in the high degradation efficiency attained at high concentrations. No significant changes in activity were seen until five cycles of photodegradation were done.
Mussel-Inspired Fabrication of PDA@PAN Electrospun Nanofibrous Membrane for Oil-in-Water Emulsion Separation
Authors: Zhao Haodong , He Yali , Wang Zhihua , Zhao Yanbao , Sun Lei
Published: December 2021

Emulsified oily wastewater threatens human health seriously, and traditional technologies are unable to separate emulsion containing small sized oil droplets. Currently, oil–water emulsions are usually separated by special wettability membranes, and researchers are devoted to developing membranes with excellent antifouling performance and high permeability. Herein, a novel, simple and low-cost method has been proposed for the separation of emulsion containing surfactants. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers were prepared via electrospinning and then coated by polydopamine (PDA) by using self-polymerization reactions in aqueous solutions. The morphology, structure and oil-in-water emulsion separation properties of the as-prepared PDA@PAN nanofibrous membrane were tested. The results show that PDA@PAN nanofibrous membrane has superhydrophilicity and almost no adhesion to crude oil in water, which exhibits excellent oil–water separation ability. The permeability and separation efficiency of n-hexane/water emulsion are up to 1570 Lm−2 h−1 bar−1 and 96.1%, respectively. Furthermore, after 10 cycles of separation, the permeability and separation efficiency values do not decrease significantly, indicating its good recycling performance. This research develops a new method for preparing oil–water separation membrane, which can be used for efficient oil-in-water emulsion separation.
GSK3β Activity in Reward Circuit Functioning and Addiction
Authors: Turlik Jakub , Wąsikiewicz Ewa , Domaradzka Aleksandra , Chrostek Gabriela , Gniadzik Weronika , Domagalski Mikołaj , Duda Przemysław
Published: December 2021

Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β), primarily described as a regulator of glycogen metabolism, is a molecular hub linking numerous signaling pathways and regulates many cellular processes like cytoskeletal rearrangement, cell migration, apoptosis, and proliferation. In neurons, the kinase is engaged in molecular events related to the strengthening and weakening of synapses, which is a subcellular manifestation of neuroplasticity. Dysregulation of GSK3β activity has been reported in many neuropsychiatric conditions, like schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and Alzheimer’s disease. In this review, we describe the kinase action in reward circuit-related structures in health and disease. The effect of pharmaceuticals used in the treatment of addiction in the context of GSK3β activity is also discussed.
Development of a 3D-Printed High Temperature Resin Cecal Fistula Implant for Long-Term and Minimally Invasive Access to the Gut Microbiome
Authors: Minaya Dulce M. , Weinstein Noah L. , Czaja Krzysztof
Published: December 2021

Microbiota dysbiosis has been associated with chronic diseases ranging from gastrointestinal inflammatory and metabolic conditions to neurological changes affecting the gut-brain neural axis, mental health, and general well-being. However, current animal studies using oral gavage and gnotobiotic animals do not allow for non-invasive long-term access to gut microbiome. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility of 3D-printed fistula implants through the body wall and into the cecum of rats to obtain long-term access to gut microbiome. Cecal fistulas were designed and 3D-printed using a high temperature resin (Formlabs; acrylic and methacrylic mixture). Nine male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent the fistula implantation. Food intake, body weight, and body fat were measured to determine the impact of fistula manipulation. Gut microbiome, vagal afferents in the hindbrain, and microglia activation were analyzed to determine if fistula implantation disrupted the gut-brain neural axis. We found that the procedure induced a transient decrease in microbial diversity in the gut that resolved within a few weeks. Fistula implantation had no impact on food intake, body weight, fat mass, or microglia activation. Our study shows that 3D-printed cecal fistula implantation is an effective procedure that allows long-term and minimally invasive access to gut microbiome.
Sensory Characteristics and Nutritional Quality of Food Products Made with a Biofortified and Lectin Free Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Flour
Authors: Sparvoli Francesca , Giofré Silvia , Cominelli Eleonora , Avite Elena , Giuberti Gianluca , Luongo Diomira , Gatti Edoardo , Cianciabella Marta , Daniele Giulia Maria , Rossi Mauro , Predieri Stefano
Published: December 2021

Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are an important source of nutrients with beneficial effects on human health. However, they contain lectins, that limit the direct use of flour in food preparations without thermal treatment, and phytic acid, that reduces mineral cation bioavailability. The objectives of this research were: to obtain biofortified snacks and a cream using an untreated common bean flour devoid of active lectins (lec−) and with reduced content of phytic acid (lpa) and to evaluate the sensorial appreciation for these products. The main results of the present work were: the products with the lpa lec− flour did not retain residual hemagglutinating activity due to lectins; they showed higher residual α-amylase inhibitor activity (from 2.2 to 135 times), reduced in vitro predicted glycemic index (about 5 units reduction) and increased iron bioavailability compared to the products with wild type flour; products with common bean flour were less appreciated than the reference ones without this flour, but the presence of an intense umami taste can be a positive attribute. Results confirmed that the use of the lpa lec− flour has important advantages in the preparation of safe and nutritionally improved products, and provide useful information to identify target consumers, such as children and elderly people.
Efficacy Evaluation of Plant Products in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction Related to Diabetes
Authors: Nobili Stefania , Lucarini Elena , Murzilli Stefania , Vanelli Arianna , Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo , Ghelardini Carla
Published: December 2021

Erectile dysfunction affects more than 50% of diabetic male patients, with a higher prevalence compared with the general population. Age, clinical factors, and lifestyle habits have been suggested to contribute to the pathophysiology and worsening of erectile dysfunction in diabetic patients. First- and second-line standard treatments are represented by phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and alprostadil, respectively. However, natural compounds have been suggested to ameliorate this clinical condition. This study aims to preclinically characterize the potential synergism among plant-derived products for the improvement of erectile dysfunction in the diabetic condition. The effects of a nutritional supplement composed of Panax ginseng, Moringa oleifera and rutin, as single agents or as a mixture, were evaluated in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat model with erectile dysfunction. The treatment efficacy was evaluated by measuring sexual-related parameters (i.e., mount and intromission latencies, the mount and intromission frequencies and the ejaculation latency). Results showed that only the mixture was able to significantly reduce the diabetes-related delay in mount latency (p < 0.01). Substantial similar effects were observed by measuring the intromission latency and the mean number of mounts was very similar between rats treated with the mixture and controls. Single agent treatments showed very low effects in terms of intromission frequency, whereas the mixture was able to increase this parameter. Additionally, a statistically significant reduced ejaculation latency was observed in rats treated with the mixture compared with the STZ control. These results are in agreement with the available literature and suggest that the study mixture may ameliorate sexual behavior compared with the administration of the study natural compounds as single agents in diabetic rats. Further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to perform a more comprehensive evaluation of the efficacy and safety of the study mixture.
Urinary Potassium Excretion, Fibroblast Growth Factor 23, and Incident Hypertension in the General Population-Based PREVEND Cohort
Authors: Yeung Stanley M. H. , Hoorn Ewout J. , Rotmans Joris I. , Gansevoort Ron T. , Bakker Stephan J. L. , Vogt Liffert , de Borst Martin H.
Published: December 2021

High plasma fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and low potassium intake have each been associated with incident hypertension. We recently demonstrated that potassium supplementation reduces FGF23 levels in pre-hypertensive individuals. The aim of the current study was to address whether 24-h urinary potassium excretion, reflecting dietary potassium intake, is associated with FGF23, and whether FGF23 mediates the association between urinary potassium excretion and incident hypertension in the general population. At baseline, 4194 community-dwelling individuals without hypertension were included. Mean urinary potassium excretion was 76 (23) mmol/24 h in men, and 64 (20) mmol/24 h in women. Plasma C-terminal FGF23 was 64.5 (54.2–77.8) RU/mL in men, and 70.3 (56.5–89.5) RU/mL in women. Urinary potassium excretion was inversely associated with FGF23, independent of age, sex, urinary sodium excretion, bone and mineral parameters, inflammation, and iron status (St. β −0.02, p < 0.05). The lowest sex-specific urinary potassium excretion tertile (HR 1.18 (95% CI 1.01–1.37)), and the highest sex-specific tertile of FGF23 (HR 1.17 (95% CI 1.01–1.37)) were each associated with incident hypertension, compared with the reference tertile. FGF23 did not mediate the association between urinary potassium excretion and incident hypertension. Increasing potassium intake, and reducing plasma FGF23 could be independent targets to reduce the risk of hypertension in the general population.
Infant Formula with Added Bovine Milk Fat Globule Membrane and Modified Iron Supports Growth and Normal Iron Status at One Year of Age: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hedrick James , Yeiser Michael , Harris Cheryl L. , Wampler Jennifer L. , London Hila Elisha , Patterson Ashley C. , Wu Steven S.
Published: December 2021

Inclusion of bovine-derived milk fat globule membrane (bMFGM) or bMFGM components in infant formulas (IFs) may support healthy brain development. This double-blind, prospective trial evaluated growth, tolerance, and iron status in infants receiving added bMFGM and modified protein, iron, and arachidonic acid (ARA) concentrations in IF. Healthy term infants were randomized to: control (marketed, routine cow’s milk-based IF/100 kcal: 2.1 g protein, 1.8 mg iron, 34 mg ARA) or INV-MFGM (investigational cow’s milk-based IF/100 kcal: 1.9 g protein, 1.2 mg iron, 25 mg ARA and whey protein-lipid concentrate, 5 g/L (source of bMFGM)). Anthropometrics, stool characteristics, fussiness, and gassiness through day 365 and blood markers of iron status at day 365 were evaluated. The primary outcome was rate of weight gain from 14–120 days of age. Of 373 infants enrolled (control: 191, INV-MFGM: 182), 275 completed the study (control: 141; INV-MFGM: 134). No group differences in growth rate (g/day) from day 14–120 or study discontinuation were detected. Few group differences in growth or parent-reported fussiness, gassiness, or stool characteristics were detected. No group differences were detected in hemoglobin, hematocrit, or incidence of anemia. In healthy term infants, bMFGM and modified protein, iron, and ARA concentrations in a cow’s milk-based IF were well-tolerated, associated with adequate growth throughout the first year of life, and supported normal iron status at one year of age.
Placing a Well-Designed Vegan Diet for Slovenes
Authors: Jakše Boštjan
Published: December 2021

Interest in vegan diets has increased globally as well as in Slovenia. The quantity of new scientific data requires a thorough synthesis of new findings and considerations about the current reserved position of the vegan diet in Slovenia. There is frequently confusion about the benefits of vegetarian diets that are often uncritically passed on to vegan diets and vice versa. This narrative review aims to serve as a framework for a well-designed vegan diet. We present advice on how to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks associated with the vegan diet and lifestyle. We highlight the proper terminology, present the health effects of a vegan diet and emphasize the nutrients of concern. In addition, we provide guidance for implementing a well-designed vegan diet in daily life. We conducted a PubMed search, up to November 2021, for studies on key nutrients (proteins, vitamin B12, vitamin D, omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)), calcium, iron, zinc, iodine and selenium) in vegan diets. Given the limited amount of scientific evidence, we focus primarily on the general adult population. A well-designed vegan diet that includes a wide variety of plant foods and supplementation of vitamin B12, vitamin D in the winter months and potentially EPA/DHA is safe and nutritionally adequate. It has the potential to maintain and/or to improve health. For physically active adult populations, athletes or individuals with fast-paced lifestyles, there is room for further appropriate supplementation of a conventional vegan diet according to individuals’ health status, needs and goals without compromising their health. A healthy vegan lifestyle, as included in government guidelines for a healthy lifestyle, includes regular physical activity, avoidance of smoking, restriction of alcohol and appropriate sleep hygiene.
Ergogenic Effects of Green Tea Combined with Isolated Soy Protein on Increasing Muscle Mass and Exercise Performance in Resistance-Trained Mice
Authors: Lee Mon-Chien , Hsu Yi-Ju , Yang Li-Hsuan , Huang Chi-Chang , Ho Chun-Sheng
Published: December 2021

It is well known that supplementation with high protein after exercise can effectively promote muscle synthesis and repair, while green tea is rich in catechins that have antioxidant effects. We aimed to explore the effects of green tea combined with isolated soy protein on increase muscle mass in resistance-trained mice. A total of 32 male ICR mice (8-weeks old) were divided into four groups (n = 8/group), sedentary control group (SC), isolated soy protein with green tea group (ISPG), resistance training group (RT), isolated soy protein and green tea combine with resistance training group (ISPG + RT). All mice received control or ISPG by oral gavage for four consecutive weeks. Forelimb grip and exhaustive swimming time were used for exercise performance evaluation. In biochemical profile, we analyzed lactate, ammonia, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and glucose and muscle damage index creatine kinase (CK) after exercise as biochemical parameters of exercise fatigue. The grip strength, muscular endurance, and exhaustive swimming time of the ISPG + RT group were significantly increased than other groups (p < 0.05), and also significantly decreased in serum lactate and ammonia levels (p < 0.05, respectively). The ISP + RT group was not only increased in quadriceps weight, (p < 0.05) but also decreased EFP (p < 0.05). We recommend using a 4-week supplementation with ISPG, combined with RT, to increase muscle mass, exercise performance, glycogen storage, and reduce fatigue biochemical parameters after exercise. The benefits of long-term supplementation or application to human supplementation can be further explored in the future.
Development and Validation of a Lifestyle Behavior Tool in Overweight and Obese Women through Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches
Authors: Ku Chee Wai , Loo Rachael Si Xuan , Lim Cheryl Jia En , Tan Jacinth J. X. , Ho Joey Ee Wen , Han Wee Meng , Ng Xiang Wen , Chan Jerry Kok Yen , Yap Fabian , Loy See Ling
Published: December 2021

There is a paucity of effective intervention tools for overweight/obese women to assess, guide and monitor their eating behavior. This study aimed to develop a lifestyle intervention tool, assess its acceptability and usefulness, and verify its construct validity in overweight/obese women. The 6P tool (Portion, Proportion, Pleasure, Phase, Physicality, Psychology) was developed and 15 women with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2 were interviewed to assess its perceived acceptability and usefulness. Subsequently, the revised 6P tool was tested in 46 women with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2. The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ), International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short (IPAQ), and weight were measured at baseline and one-month. Most participants were satisfied with the presentation of the 6P tool (86.8%), and agreed it was useful in guiding healthy eating (81.6%) and raising awareness of eating behavior (97.4%). There were significant improvements in cognitive restraint (p = 0.010) and disinhibition (p = 0.030) (TFEQ), portion size (P1), pleasure behaviors (P3), and total composite 6P score (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant reduction in weight or increase in physical activity. The 6P tool is acceptable and presents with good validity for assessing lifestyle behaviors.
Fat-Soluble Vitamin Supplementation Using Liposomes, Cyclodextrins, or Medium-Chain Triglycerides in Cystic Fibrosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nowak Jan K. , Sobkowiak Paulina , Drzymała-Czyż Sławomira , Krzyżanowska-Jankowska Patrycja , Sapiejka Ewa , Skorupa Wojciech , Pogorzelski Andrzej , Nowicka Agata , Wojsyk-Banaszak Irena , Kurek Szymon , Zielińska-Psuja Barbara , Lisowska Aleksandra , Walkowiak Jarosław
Published: December 2021

Fat-soluble vitamin deficiency remains a challenge in cystic fibrosis (CF), chronic pancreatitis, and biliary atresia. Liposomes and cyclodextrins can enhance their bioavailability, thus this multi-center randomized placebo-controlled trial compared three-month supplementation of fat-soluble vitamins in the form of liposomes or cyclodextrins to medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) in pancreatic-insufficient CF patients. The daily doses were as follows: 2000 IU of retinyl palmitate, 4000 IU of vitamin D3, 200 IU of RRR-α-tocopherol, and 200 µg of vitamin K2 as menaquinone-7, with vitamin E given in soybean oil instead of liposomes. All participants received 4 mg of β-carotene and 1.07 mg of vitamin K1 to ensure compliance with the guidelines. The primary outcome was the change from the baseline of all-trans-retinol and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 concentrations and the percentage of undercarboxylated osteocalcin. Out of 75 randomized patients (n = 28 liposomes, n = 22 cyclodextrins, and n = 25 MCT), 67 completed the trial (89%; n = 26 liposomes, n = 18 cyclodextrins, and n = 23 MCT) and had a median age of 22 years (IQR 19–28), body mass index of 20.6 kg/m2 [18.4–22.0], and forced expiratory volume in 1 s of 65% (44–84%). The liposomal formulation of vitamin A was associated with the improved evolution of serum all-trans-retinol compared to the control (median +1.7 ng/mL (IQR −44.3–86.1) vs. −38.8 ng/mL (−71.2–6.8), p = 0.028). Cyclodextrins enhanced the bioavailability of vitamin D3 (+9.0 ng/mL (1.0–17.0) vs. +3.0 ng/mL (−4.0–7.0), p = 0.012) and vitamin E (+4.34 µg/mL (0.33–6.52) vs. −0.34 µg/mL (−1.71–2.15), p = 0.010). Liposomes may augment the bioavailability of vitamin A and cyclodextrins may strengthen the supplementation of vitamins D3 and E relative to MCT in pancreatic-insufficient CF but further studies are required to assess liposomal vitamin E (German Clinical Trial Register number DRKS00014295, funded from EU and Norsa Pharma).
Validation of a Short Food Frequency Questionnaire to Measure Dietary Intake of a Selection of Micronutrients in Oncology Patients Undergoing Systemic Therapy
Authors: Mukherjee Mitali S. , Sukumaran Shawgi , Delaney Christopher L. , Miller Michelle D.
Published: December 2021

Dietary intake, specifically consumption of anti-inflammatory micronutrients, can play a role in both cancer initiation as well as the treatment-related outcomes experienced by patients receiving systemic cancer therapy. Increasing research is being conducted to determine whether micronutrient supplementation can aid in altering the tumor microenvironment (TME), reducing inflammatory side effects and immune-related adverse events (irAEs). However, further research pertaining to the adequacy of dietary micronutrient intake is indicated in the oncology cohort. Currently, no tool measuring dietary intakes of various micronutrients exists in the oncology population. In this study, a 21-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) measuring intakes of 14 different micronutrients was validated using diet history as the reference method in 112 oncology patients. Bland Altman plot and Passing Bablok regression analysis were conducted to determine agreement between the two methods. The results showed adequate agreement between FFQ and diet history for 12 nutrients including copper, iron, vitamins A, E, and D, alpha linolenic acid (ALA), long-chain omega 3 fatty acids (LC n3-FA), arginine, glutamic acid, isoleucine, leucine, and valine. This 21-item FFQ, which takes an average of 10 min to complete, can be utilized as a quick screening tool to determine adequacy for 12 different micronutrients in place of a diet history.
Self-Reported Olfactory Dysfunction and Diet Quality: Findings from the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)
Authors: Rawal Shristi , Duffy Valerie B. , Berube Lauren , Hayes John E. , Kant Ashima K. , Li Chuan-Ming , Graubard Barry I. , Hoffman Howard J.
Published: December 2021

We identified associations between self-reported olfactory dysfunction (OD) and dietary attributes in participants aged ≥40 years (n = 6,356) from the nationally representative 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The chemosensory questionnaire and 24-h dietary recalls were administered by trained interviewers. OD was defined as self-report of either smell problems in the last year, worse smell relative to age 25, or perceiving phantom odors. Dietary outcomes included Healthy Eating Index 2015 score (HEI) with adequacy and moderation components (higher scores indicated higher diet quality), dietary diversity, energy density, and intake of major food groups. Survey-weighted linear regression models estimated OD–diet associations, adjusting for socio-demographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors. Adjusted mean difference (95% CI) between those with versus without OD, showed that adults with OD had significantly lower HEI moderation score (−0.67 (−1.22, −0.11)) and diets higher in energy density (0.06 (0.00, 0.11)), and percent energy from saturated fat (0.47 (0.12, 0.81)), total fat (0.96 (0.22, 1.70)), and added sugar (1.00 (0.33, 1.66)). Age and sex-stratified analyses showed that younger females (40–64 years) primarily accounted for the associations with diet quality and total/saturated fat intake. These findings inform dietary screening and recommendations for adults who report OD, including those experiencing transient or persistent smell loss with COVID-19.
The Role of Water-Based Exercise on Vertical Ground Reaction Forces in Overweight Children: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gomes Mariana Borba , Andrade Luana Siqueira , Nunes Gabriela Neves , Weymar Marina Krause , Schaun Gustavo Zaccaria , Alberton Cristine Lima
Published: December 2021

The aquatic environment represents an adequate and safe alternative for children with overweight to exercise. However, the magnitude of the vertical ground reaction force (Fz) during these exercises is unknown in this population. Therefore, our study aimed to compare the Fz during the stationary running exercise between the aquatic and land environments in children with overweight or obesity. The study is characterized as a cross-over study. Seven children, two with overweight and five with obesity (4 boys and 3 girls; 9.7 ± 0.8 years), performed two experimental sessions, one on land and another in the aquatic environment. In both conditions, each participant performed 15 repetitions of the stationary running exercise at three different cadences (60, 80, and 100 b min−1) in a randomized order. Their apparent weight was reduced by 72.1 ± 10.4% on average at the xiphoid process depth. The peak Fz, impulse, and loading rate were lower in the aquatic environment than on land (p < 0.001). Peak Fz was also lower at 80 b min−1 compared to 100 b min−1 (p = 0.005) and loading rate was higher at 100 b min−1 compared to 80 b min−1 (p = 0.003) and 60 b min−1 (p < 0.001) in the aquatic environment, whereas impulse was significantly reduced (p < 0.001) with the increasing cadence in both environments. It can be concluded that the aquatic environment reduces all the Fz outcomes investigated during stationary running and that exercise intensity seems to influence all these outcomes in the aquatic environment.
Transfusion Transmissible Infections in Blood Donors in the Province of Bié, Angola, during a 15-Year Follow-Up, Imply the Need for Pathogen Reduction Technologies
Authors: Peliganga Luis Baião , Mello Vinicius Motta , de Sousa Paulo Sergio Fonseca , Horta Marco Aurelio Pereira , Soares Álvaro Domingos , Nunes João Pedro da Silva , Nobrega Miguel , Lewis-Ximenez Lia Laura
Published: December 2021

Transfusion transmissible infections (TTIs), caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV), human immunode-ficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and syphilis, have a high global impact, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. We evaluated the trend of these infections over time in blood donors in Angola. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among blood donors in Angola from 2005 to 2020. Additionally, frozen samples obtained from blood donors in 2007 were investigated to identify chronic HCV carriers and possible occult HBV infection (OBI). The overall prevalence of HBV, HCV, HIV, and syphilis was 8.5, 3, 2.1, and 4.4%, respectively, among 57,979 blood donors. HBV was predominant among male donors, while the remaining TTIs were predominant among women. Donors >50 years had a significantly high prevalence for all TTIs. Chronic HCV infection was ab-sent in 500 samples tested and OBI was present in 3%. Our results show the continued high prev-alence of TTIs among blood donors in Angola. Most infections showed a significantly low preva-lence in years with campaigns seeking voluntary blood donors, thus, reinforcing the importance of this type of donor to ensure safe blood. Africa, with a high prevalence of diverse pathogens, should consider cost-effective pathogen reduction technologies, once they are commercially accessible, to increase the availability of safe blood.
Molecular Detection of Zoonotic and Non-Zoonotic Pathogens from Wild Boars and Their Ticks in the Corsican Wetlands
Authors: Defaye Baptiste , Moutailler Sara , Pietri Christian , Galon Clemence , Grech-Angelini Sébastien , Pasqualini Vanina , Quilichini Yann
Published: December 2021

Corsica is the main French island in the Mediterranean Sea and has high levels of human and animal population movement. Among the local animal species, the wild boar is highly prevalent in the Corsican landscape and in the island’s traditions. Wild boars are the most commonly hunted animals on this island, and can be responsible for the transmission and circulation of pathogens and their vectors. In this study, wild boar samples and ticks were collected in 17 municipalities near wetlands on the Corsican coast. A total of 158 hunted wild boars were sampled (523 samples). Of these samples, 113 were ticks: 96.4% were Dermacentor marginatus, and the remainder were Hyalomma marginatum, Hyalomma scupense and Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. Of the wild boar samples, only three blood samples were found to be positive for Babesia spp. Of the tick samples, 90 were found to be positive for tick-borne pathogens (rickettsial species). These results confirm the importance of the wild boar as a host for ticks carrying diseases such as rickettsiosis near wetlands and recreational sites. Our findings also show that the wild boar is a potential carrier of babesiosis in Corsica, a pathogen detected for the first time in wild boars on the island.
Minimal Dosage of Porcine Circovirus Type 2d Based Virus-like Particles to Induce Stable Protective Immunity against Infection
Authors: Baek Jong-Hyuk , Cha Sang-Ho , Cho Sun-Hee , Lee Myung-Shin , Park Changhoon
Published: December 2021

In recent years, porcine circovirus type 2d (PCV2d) has achieved a dominant position worldwide. Various PCV2d capsid-based vaccines have been used to alleviate concerns regarding the emergence of the variant. This study aimed to determine the dosage of recombinant PCV2d capsid protein to induce protective efficacy against experimental challenge with a virulent PCV2d strain. Conventional 3-week-old pigs were intramuscularly inoculated with different doses of the protein (60, 20, 10 and 2 µg). Four weeks after vaccination, all pigs were challenged with pathogenic PCV2d (SNU140003), which was isolated from a farm severely experiencing PCV2-associated disease in Korea. Vaccination with greater than 10 µg of the capsid protein caused a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in PCV2d viremia, lymphoid lesions and lymphoid PCV2 antigen levels in vaccinated challenged pigs compared to unvaccinated challenged pigs. The vaccination also resulted in significantly higher (p < 0.05) titers of neutralizing antibodies against PCV2d. However, the pigs vaccinated with 2 µg had significantly lower neutralizing antibody titers than the other vaccinated groups. They showed a similar level of challenged PCV2d in serum and lymphoid lesion score compared to unvaccinated challenged pigs. The difference in efficacy among the vaccinated groups indicates that there may be a baseline dosage to induce sufficient neutralizing antibodies to prevent viral replication in pigs. In conclusion, at least 10 µg dosage of capsid protein is essential for stable protective efficacy against PCV2d in a pig model.
The Role of Exposomes in the Pathophysiology of Autoimmune Diseases I: Toxic Chemicals and Food
Authors: Vojdani Aristo , Vojdani Elroy
Published: December 2021

Autoimmune diseases affect 5–9% of the world’s population. It is now known that genetics play a relatively small part in the pathophysiology of autoimmune disorders in general, and that environmental factors have a greater role. In this review, we examine the role of the exposome, an individual’s lifetime exposure to external and internal factors, in the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases. The most common of these environmental factors are toxic chemicals, food/diet, and infections. Toxic chemicals are in our food, drink, common products, the air, and even the land we walk on. Toxic chemicals can directly damage self-tissue and cause the release of autoantigens, or can bind to human tissue antigens and form neoantigens, which can provoke autoimmune response leading to autoimmunity. Other types of autoimmune responses can also be induced by toxic chemicals through various effects at the cellular and biochemical levels. The food we eat every day commonly has colorants, preservatives, or packaging-related chemical contamination. The food itself may be antigenic for susceptible individuals. The most common mechanism for food-related autoimmunity is molecular mimicry, in which the food’s molecular structure bears a similarity with the structure of one or more self-tissues. The solution is to detect the trigger, remove it from the environment or diet, then repair the damage to the individual’s body and health.
Preclinical Drug Response Metric Based on Cellular Response Phenotype Provides Better Pharmacogenomic Variables with Phenotype Relevance
Authors: Kim Sanghyun , Hwang Sohyun
Published: December 2021

High-throughput screening of drug response in cultured cell lines is essential for studying therapeutic mechanisms and identifying molecular variants associated with sensitivity to drugs. Assessment of drug response is typically performed by constructing a dose-response curve of viability and summarizing it to a representative, such as IC50. However, this is limited by its dependency on the assay duration and lack of reflections regarding actual cellular response phenotypes. To address these limitations, we consider how each response-phenotype contributes to the overall growth behavior and propose an alternative method of drug response screening that takes into account the cellular response phenotype. In conventional drug response screening methods, the ranking of sensitivity depends on either the metric used to construct the dose-response curve or the representative factor used to summarize the curve. This ambiguity in conventional assessment methods is due to the fact that assessment methods are not consistent with the underlying principles of population dynamics. Instead, the suggested phenotype metrics provide all phenotypic rates of change that shape overall growth behavior at a given dose and better response classification, including the phenotypic mechanism of overall growth inhibition. This alternative high-throughput drug-response screening would improve preclinical pharmacogenomic analysis and the understanding of a therapeutic mechanism of action.
The Combination of AHCC and ETAS Decreases Migration of Colorectal Cancer Cells, and Reduces the Expression of LGR5 and Notch1 Genes in Cancer Stem Cells: A Novel Potential Approach for Integrative Medicine
Authors: Paganelli Francesca , Chiarini Francesca , Palmieri Annalisa , Martinelli Marcella , Sena Paola , Bertacchini Jessika , Roncucci Luca , Cappellini Alessandra , Martelli Alberto M. , Bonucci Massimo , Fiorentini Carla , Hammarberg Ferri Ivano
Published: December 2021

The AHCC standardized extract of cultured Lentinula edodes mycelia, and the standardized extract of Asparagus officinalis stem, trademarked as ETAS, are well known supplements with immunomodulatory and anticancer potential. Several reports have described their therapeutic effects, including antioxidant and anticancer activity and improvement of immune response. In this study we aimed at investigating the effects of a combination of AHCC and ETAS on colorectal cancer cells and biopsies from healthy donors to assess the possible use in patients with colorectal cancer. Our results showed that the combination of AHCC and ETAS was synergistic in inducing a significant decrease in cancer cell growth, compared with single agents. Moreover, the combined treatment induced a significant increase in apoptosis, sparing colonocytes from healthy donors, and was able to induce a strong reduction in migration potential, accompanied by a significant modulation of proteins involved in invasiveness. Finally, combined treatment was able to significantly downregulate LGR5 and Notch1 in SW620 cancer stem cell (CSC) colonospheres. Overall, these findings support the potential therapeutic benefits of the AHCC and ETAS combinatorial treatment for patients with colorectal cancer.
Formulation and Characterization of an Effervescent Hydrogen-Generating Tablet
Authors: Rosch Moritz , Lucas Kurt , Al-Gousous Jozef , Pöschl Ulrich , Langguth Peter
Published: December 2021

Hydrogen, as a medical gas, is a promising emerging treatment for many diseases related to inflammation and oxidative stress. Molecular hydrogen can be generated through hydrogen ion reduction by a metal, and magnesium-containing effervescent tablets constitute an attractive formulation strategy for oral delivery. In this regard, saccharide-based excipients represent an important class of potential fillers with high water solubility and sweet taste. In this study, we investigated the effect of different saccharides on the morphological and mechanical properties and the disintegration of hydrogen-generating effervescent tablets prepared by dry granulation. Mannitol was found to be superior to other investigated saccharides and promoted far more rapid hydrogen generation combined with acceptable mechanical properties. In further product optimization involving investigation of lubricant effects, adipic acid was selected for the optimized tablet, due to regulatory considerations.
Echinocandin Drugs Induce Differential Effects in Cytokinesis Progression and Cell Integrity
Authors: Yagüe Natalia , Gómez-Delgado Laura , Curto M. Ángeles , Carvalho Vanessa S. D. , Moreno M. Belén , Pérez Pilar , Ribas Juan Carlos , Cortés Juan Carlos G.
Published: December 2021

Fission yeast contains three essential β(1,3)-D-glucan synthases (GSs), Bgs1, Bgs3, and Bgs4, with non-overlapping roles in cell integrity and morphogenesis. Only the bgs4+ mutants pbr1-8 and pbr1-6 exhibit resistance to GS inhibitors, even in the presence of the wild-type (WT) sequences of bgs1+ and bgs3+. Thus, Bgs1 and Bgs3 functions seem to be unaffected by those GS inhibitors. To learn more about echinocandins’ mechanism of action and resistance, cytokinesis progression and cell death were examined by time-lapse fluorescence microscopy in WT and pbr1-8 cells at the start of treatment with sublethal and lethal concentrations of anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin. In WT, sublethal concentrations of the three drugs caused abundant cell death that was either suppressed (anidulafungin and micafungin) or greatly reduced (caspofungin) in pbr1-8 cells. Interestingly, the lethal concentrations induced differential phenotypes depending on the echinocandin used. Anidulafungin and caspofungin were mostly fungistatic, heavily impairing cytokinesis progression in both WT and pbr1-8. As with sublethal concentrations, lethal concentrations of micafungin were primarily fungicidal in WT cells, causing cell lysis without impairing cytokinesis. The lytic phenotype was suppressed again in pbr1-8 cells. Our results suggest that micafungin always exerts its fungicidal effect by solely inhibiting Bgs4. In contrast, lethal concentrations of anidulafungin and caspofungin cause an early cytokinesis arrest, probably by the combined inhibition of several GSs.
Machine Learning and Machine Vision Accelerate 3D Printed Orodispersible Film Development
Authors: O’Reilly Colm S. , Elbadawi Moe , Desai Neel , Gaisford Simon , Basit Abdul W. , Orlu Mine
Published: December 2021

Orodispersible films (ODFs) are an attractive delivery system for a myriad of clinical applications and possess both large economical and clinical rewards. However, the manufacturing of ODFs does not adhere to contemporary paradigms of personalised, on-demand medicine, nor sustainable manufacturing. To address these shortcomings, both three-dimensional (3D) printing and machine learning (ML) were employed to provide on-demand manufacturing and quality control checks of ODFs. Direct ink writing (DIW) was able to fabricate complex ODF shapes, with thicknesses of less than 100 µm. ML algorithms were explored to classify the ODFs according to their active ingredient, by using their near-infrared (NIR) spectrums. A supervised model of linear discriminant analysis was found to provide 100% accuracy in classifying ODFs. A subsequent partial least square algorithm was applied to verify the dose, where a coefficient of determination of 0.96, 0.99 and 0.98 was obtained for ODFs of paracetamol, caffeine, and theophylline, respectively. Therefore, it was concluded that the combination of 3D printing, NIR and ML can result in a rapid production and verification of ODFs. Additionally, a machine vision tool was used to automate the in vitro testing. These collective digital technologies demonstrate the potential to automate the ODF workflow.