bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-Dimensional Surface Topological Nanolayers and Dirac Fermions in Single Crystals of the Diluted Magnetic Semiconductor (Cd1−x−yZnxMny)3As2 (x + y = 0.3)
Authors: Zakhvalinskii Vasilii , Nikulicheva Tatyana , Pilyuk Evgeny , Ivanov Oleg , Kochura Aleksey , Kuzmenko Alexander , Lähderanta Erkki , Morocho Alexander
Published: October 2020

Features in the transverse magnetoresistance of single-crystalline diluted magnetic semiconductors of a (Cd1−x−yZnxMny)3As2 system with x + y = 0.3 have been found and analyzed in detail. Two groups of samples have been examined. The samples of the first group were thermally annealed for a long time, whereas the samples of the second group were not thermally annealed. The Shubnikov–de Haas (SdH) oscillations were observed for both groups of the samples within a 4.2 ÷ 30 K temperature range and under transverse magnetic field sweeping from 0 up to 11 T. The value of a phase shift, according to the SdH oscillations, was found to be a characteristic of the Berry phase existing in all the samples, except the unannealed sample with y = 0.08. Thickness of 2D surface topological nanolayers for all the samples was estimated. The thickness substantially depended on Mn concentration. The experimental dependence of reduced cyclotron mass on the Fermi wave vector, extracted from the SdH oscillations for the samples with different doping levels, is in satisfactory agreement with the predicted theoretical linear dependence. The existence of the Dirac fermions in all the samples studied (except the unannealed sample with y = 0.08) can be concluded from this result.
Model for the Discharging of a Dual PCM Heat Storage Tank and Its Experimental Validation
Authors: Nemś Artur , Puertas Antonio M.
Published: October 2020

The important topic of modelling tanks filled with phase change materials (PCMs) is discussed in this article. Due to the increasing use of heating and cooling installations, tanks containing two types of PCMs are the subject of many experimental analyses. However, there are still deficiencies in their models, which are presented in this paper. The theory model was created in order to design two tanks, each with a volume of 2 m3. They were filled with water and containers with two PCMs. The modelled tanks were meant to replace the existing water tanks that were previously used in the solar heating and cooling installation in a research building located in the southern part of Spain. After the tanks were assembled, the model was validated during the summer period when the designed storage tanks supported the operation of the solar system operating in the cooling mode. The created model consists of a 1D description of the heat transfer in the storage tank, and also a 1D description of the phase change in the containers with the PCMs. The model takes into account the front of the phase change and also discusses its impact on the thermal efficiency of the tanks. The agreement of the water output temperature is very good and validates the model, which can then be used to provide further details on the operation of the storage system—in particular, heat fluxes or a fraction of solid or liquid PCM.
Patterns of Energy Consumption in Polish One-Person Households
Authors: Piekut Marlena
Published: October 2020

Poland belongs to a group of countries with the highest share of expenditure on energy carriers in total household expenditure among the EU-28 countries. This fact adversely affects the quality of life of Polish citizens. One of the types of households which are most severely burdened with expenditure on energy carriers are households run by a single person. The scientific objective of the study was to identify the consumption patterns of energy carriers in Polish one-person households. The findings of the research were used to assess the correlation between the risk of energy poverty and particular socio-economic and demographic characteristics of the representatives of these households. Many statistical methods were used to achieve the research goal: analysis of variance, regression analysis, and cluster analysis. An aggregated index of energy comfort has been designed. Social factors, such as the level of education and the fact of holding non-manual positions, are strongly related to the level of expenditure on energy carriers and the degree of satisfaction of the needs related to the thermal comfort. The types of one-person households particularly vulnerable to energy poverty were individuals who had a number of different characteristics. The group included individuals who were unemployed, disabled, with low disposable income, with a low education level, living in the rural areas as well as elderly people. Polish one-person households can be divided into four groups according to the expenditure on energy carriers and meeting their needs related to thermal comfort.
A Non-Isothermal Moving-Boundary Model for Continuous and Intermittent Drying of Pears
Authors: Adrover Alessandra , Venditti Claudia , Brasiello Antonio
Published: October 2020

A non-isothermal moving-boundary model for food dehydration, accounting for shrinkage and thermal effects, is proposed and applied to the analysis of intermittent dehydration in which air temperature, relative humidity, and velocity vary cyclically in time. The convection-diffusion heat transport equation, accounting for heat transfer, water evaporation, and shrinkage at the sample surface, is coupled to the convection-diffusion water transport equation. Volume shrinkage is not superimposed but predicted by the model through the introduction of a point-wise shrinkage velocity. Experimental dehydration curves, in continuous and intermittent conditions, are accurately predicted by the model with an effective water diffusivity Deff(T) that depends exclusively on the local temperature. The non-isothermal model is successfully applied to the large set of experimental data of continuous and intermittent drying of Rocha pears.
Satiety, Taste and the Cephalic Phase: A Crossover Designed Pilot Study into Taste and Glucose Response
Authors: Sae iab Thanyathorn , Dando Robin
Published: October 2020

The glycemic response produced by a food depends on both the glycemic index of the food itself, and on how the body reacts to the food as it is consumed and digested, in turn dependent on sensory cues. Research suggests that taste stimulation can induce the cephalic phase insulin response before food has reached the digestion, priming the body for an incoming glucose load. This glycemic response can consequently affect the amount of food consumed in a subsequent meal. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects on satiety of four preloads that differed in caloric content and sensory properties, in a small group of female and male participants (n = 10). Water, sucrose, sucralose, and maltodextrin were used to represent 4 different conditions of the preload, with or without energy, and with or without sweet taste. Individual plasma glucose concentrations were sampled at baseline, 45 min after consuming the preload, and after consuming an ad-libitum test meal. Hunger, fullness, desire to eat, and thoughts of food feeling were assessed every 15 min using visual analog scales. Results in male participants when comparing two solutions of equal caloric content, maltodextrin and sucrose, showed that plasma glucose concentration spiked in the absence of taste input (p = 0.011). Maltodextrin, while providing calories does not have the sweet taste that can serve to trigger cephalic phase insulin release to attenuate an incoming glucose load, and was accompanied by significantly greater change in feelings of satiety than with the other preloads. Despite the difference in postprandial blood glucose, the energy consumed in the test meal across the treatments was not significantly different in either males or females. Results highlight the importance of taste in stimulating the body for the efficient and effective glucose homeostasis.
Evaluation of IoT-Enabled Monitoring and Electronic Nose Spoilage Detection for Salmon Freshness During Cold Storage
Authors: Feng Huanhuan , Zhang Mengjie , Liu Pengfei , Liu Yiliu , Zhang Xiaoshuan
Published: October 2020

Salmon is a highly perishable food due to temperature, pH, odor, and texture changes during cold storage. Intelligent monitoring and spoilage rapid detection are effective approaches to improve freshness. The aim of this work was an evaluation of IoT-enabled monitoring system (IoTMS) and electronic nose spoilage detection for quality parameters changes and freshness under cold storage conditions. The salmon samples were analyzed and divided into three groups in an incubator set at 0 °C, 4 °C, and 6 °C. The quality parameters, i.e., texture, color, sensory, and pH changes, were measured and evaluated at different temperatures after 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 14 days of cold storage. The principal component analysis (PCA) algorithm can be used to cluster electronic nose information. Furthermore, a Convolutional Neural Networks and Support Vector Machine (CNN-SVM) based algorithm is used to cluster the freshness level of salmon samples stored in a specific storage condition. In the tested samples, the results show that the training dataset of freshness is about 95.6%, and the accuracy rate of the test dataset is 93.8%. For the training dataset of corruption, the accuracy rate is about 91.4%, and the accuracy rate of the test dataset is 90.5%. The overall accuracy rate is more than 90%. This work could help to reduce quality loss during salmon cold storage.
In Vitro Assessment of the Impact of Industrial Processes on the Gastrointestinal Digestion of Milk Protein Matrices Using the INFOGEST Protocol
Authors: Atallah Nathalie , Deracinois Barbara , Boulier Audrey , Baniel Alain , Jouan-Rimbaud Bouveresse Delphine , Ravallec Rozenn , Flahaut Christophe , Cudennec Benoit
Published: October 2020

The goal of this study was to determine the impact of industrial processes on the digestion of six milk protein matrices using the harmonized INFOGEST in vitro static digestion protocol. First, this method was optimized to simple protein matrices using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and size exclusion chromatography (SEC) to compare the intestinal protein hydrolysis obtained with increasing quantities of pancreatin. Similar results were achieved with the originally required pancreatin amount (trypsin activity of 100 U.mL−1) and with a quantity of pancreatin equivalent to a trypsin activity of 27.3 U.mL−1, which was thus used to perform the in vitro digestion of the milk matrices. Molecular weight profiles, peptide heterogeneity from LC-MS/MS data, calcium, free amino acid, and peptide concentrations were determined in the gastric and intestinal phases to compare the milk protein digests. Results showed that the industrial process affected not only the protein distribution of the matrices but also most likely the protein structures. Indeed, differences arose in terms of peptide populations generated when the caseins were reticulated or when their calcium concentrations were reduced.
Italian Physical Fitness Decline: A True Fact or a Mindset? A 10-Year Observational Perspective Study
Authors: Lovecchio Nicola , Giuriato Matteo , Carnevale Pellino Vittoria , Valarani Francesca , Codella Roberto , Vandoni Matteo
Published: October 2020

Evidence regarding a putative physical fitness decline remains less well documented for Italian children and adolescents. An update review of data collection articles was undertaken concerning motor performances (power, strength, speed-agility and indirect cardiorespiratory fitness) of children and adolescents worldwide and compared with 2859 11–12-year-old Italian students of both sexes, throughout a ten-year observational period. Lower limb explosive strength (standing broad jump), flexibility (sit-and-reach), endurance (Cooper) and speed (SP-30) performances of sixth grade Italian students showed nearly stable trends, with no differences during the observed decade, in both sexes. This 10-year perspective study confirmed that Italian physical fitness levels flatlined rather than actually declined. According to these study data, the decline in physical fitness of the Italian youth is ostensible and needs a further in-depth analysis.
Viruses in Cancers of the Digestive System: Active Contributors or Idle Bystanders?
Authors: Marônek Martin , Link René , Monteleone Giovanni , Gardlík Roman , Stolfi Carmine
Published: October 2020

The human virome, which is a collection of all the viruses that are present in the human body, is increasingly being recognized as an essential part of the human microbiota. The human gastrointestinal tract and related organs (e.g., liver, pancreas, and gallbladder)—composing the gastrointestinal (or digestive) system—contain a huge number of viral particles which contribute to maintaining tissue homeostasis and keeping our body healthy. However, perturbations of the virome steady-state may, both directly and indirectly, ignite/sustain oncogenic mechanisms contributing to the initiation of a dysplastic process and/or cancer progression. In this review, we summarize and discuss the available evidence on the association and role of viruses in the development of cancers of the digestive system.
Nanostructured Silica with Anchoring Units: The 2D Solid Solvent for Molecules and Metal Ions
Authors: Laskowska Magdalena , Pastukh Oleksandr , Fedorchuk Andrii , Schabikowski Mateusz , Kowalczyk Paweł , Zalasiński Marcin , Laskowski Łukasz
Published: October 2020

The ability to organize, separate and manipulate individual molecules and ions on a surface opens up almost unlimited opportunities. However, it often requires complex techniques and a proper support material. With this in mind, we show a new concept of 2D solid solvents and review a simple and efficient procedure which is based on nanostructured forms of silica with anchoring units. We describe silica supports, such as spherical nanoparticles and mesoporous silica structures, as well as review the methods for chemical modification of the surface of silica with the functional groups. Finally, we present a few particular examples of the immobilization of molecules and ions on the surface of 2D solid solvents along with the experimental investigation of the obtained materials.
Full-Scale Implementation of RES and Storage in an Island Energy System
Authors: Fiorentzis Konstantinos , Katsigiannis Yiannis , Karapidakis Emmanuel
Published: October 2020

The field of energy, specifically renewable energy sources (RES), is considered vital for a sustainable society, a fact that is clearly defined by the European Green Deal. It will convert the old, conventional economy into a new, sustainable economy that is environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially responsible. Therefore, there is a need for quick actions by everyone who wants to move toward energy-efficient development and new environmentally friendly behavior. This can be achieved by setting specific guidelines of how to proceed, where to start, and what knowledge is needed to implement such plans and initiatives. This paper seeks to contribute to this very important issue by appraising the ability of full-scale implementation of RES combined with energy storage in an island power system. The Greek island power system of Astypalaia is used as a case study where a battery energy storage system (BESS), along with wind turbines (WTs), is examined to be installed as part of a hybrid power plant (HPP). The simulation’s results showed that the utilization of HPP can significantly increase RES penetration in parallel with remarkable fuel cost savings. Finally, the fast response of BESS can enhance the stability of the system in the case of disturbances.
The Role of Molecular Chaperones in Virus Infection and Implications for Understanding and Treating COVID-19
Authors: Paladino Letizia , Vitale Alessandra Maria , Caruso Bavisotto Celeste , Conway de Macario Everly , Cappello Francesco , Macario Alberto J.L. , Marino Gammazza Antonella
Published: October 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic made imperative the search for means to end it, which requires a knowledge of the mechanisms underpinning the multiplication and spread of its cause, the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Many viruses use members of the hosts’ chaperoning system to infect the target cells, replicate, and spread, and here we present illustrative examples. Unfortunately, the role of chaperones in the SARS-CoV-2 cycle is still poorly understood. In this review, we examine the interactions of various coronaviruses during their infectious cycle with chaperones in search of information useful for future research on SARS-CoV-2. We also call attention to the possible role of molecular mimicry in the development of autoimmunity and its widespread pathogenic impact in COVID-19 patients. Viral proteins share highly antigenic epitopes with human chaperones, eliciting anti-viral antibodies that crossreact with the chaperones. Both, the critical functions of chaperones in the infectious cycle of viruses and the possible role of these molecules in COVID-19 autoimmune phenomena, make clear that molecular chaperones are promising candidates for the development of antiviral strategies. These could consist of inhibiting-blocking those chaperones that are necessary for the infectious viral cycle, or those that act as autoantigens in the autoimmune reactions causing generalized destructive effects on human tissues.
Vessel Trajectory Analysis in Designated Harbor Route Considering the Influence of External Forces
Authors: Namgung Ho , Kim Joo-Sung
Published: October 2020

A vessel must navigate along designated routes within a harbor area to ensure navigation safety. The impact of strong currents is one of the most dangerous factors in coastal navigation. However, it is challenging to determine the deviation of a ship in advance from the ship’s position data in the case of a marine accident. In this study, to support the decision-making of ship navigators and vessel traffic service (VTS) operators in track monitoring tasks, tracks were classified according to the tidal stream, and the track distribution was analyzed according to the tidal current situations. Marine accident analysis was performed to investigate the tidal influence on ship tracks. Track data were collected for 12 months from a VTS center in Korea, and tidal information was collected through a meteorological observation buoy. Representative tracks were extracted from the track data using the support vector regression (SVR) seaway model. K-fold cross-validation and a grid search were performed to determine the optimal parameters. The ship tracks appeared in specific patterns according to the forces and directions of tidal currents, and specific deviation patterns were observed. This study is expected to contribute to the reduction of marine accidents by predicting ship trajectories according to the tidal situations in advance.
A Comparison between Coastal Altimetry Data and Tidal Gauge Measurements in the Gulf of Genoa (NW Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Picco Paola , Vignudelli Stefano , Repetti Luca
Published: October 2020

Satellite altimetry data from X-TRACK products were analyzed for an overall assessment of their capability to detect coastal sea level variability in the Ligurian Sea. Near-coastal altimetry data, collected from 2009 to 2016 along track n.044, were compared with simultaneous high frequency sampled data at the tidal station in Genoa (NW Mediterranean Sea). The two time series show a very good agreement: correlation between total sea level elevation from the altimeter and sea level variation from the tidal gauge is 0.92 and root mean square difference is 4.5 cm. Some relevant mismatches can be ascribed to the local high frequency coastal variability due to shelf and harbor oscillation detected at the tidal station, which might not be observed at the location of the altimetry points of measurement. The analysis evidences discrepancies (root mean square difference of 4.7 cm) between model results for open sea tides and harmonic analysis at the tidal station, mainly occurring at the annual and semiannual period. On the contrary, the important part of dynamic atmospheric correction due to the inverse barometer effect, well agrees with that computed at the tidal station.
Metal and Phosphate Ions Show Remarkable Influence on the Biomass Production and Lipid Accumulation in Oleaginous Mucor circinelloides
Authors: Dzurendova Simona , Zimmermann Boris , Tafintseva Valeria , Kohler Achim , Horn Svein Jarle , Shapaval Volha
Published: October 2020

The biomass of Mucor circinelloides, a dimorphic oleaginous filamentous fungus, has a significant nutritional value and can be used for single cell oil production. Metal ions are micronutrients supporting fungal growth and metabolic activity of cellular processes. We investigated the effect of 140 different substrates, with varying amounts of metal and phosphate ions concentration, on the growth, cell chemistry, lipid accumulation, and lipid profile of M. circinelloides. A high-throughput set-up consisting of a Duetz microcultivation system coupled to Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was utilized. Lipids were extracted by a modified Lewis method and analyzed using gas chromatography. It was observed that Mg and Zn ions were essential for the growth and metabolic activity of M. circinelloides. An increase in Fe ion concentration inhibited fungal growth, while higher concentrations of Cu, Co, and Zn ions enhanced the growth and lipid accumulation. Lack of Ca and Cu ions, as well as higher amounts of Zn and Mn ions, enhanced lipid accumulation in M. circinelloides. Generally, the fatty acid profile of M. circinelloides lipids was quite consistent, irrespective of media composition. Increasing the amount of Ca ions enhanced polyphosphates accumulation, while lack of it showed fall in polyphosphate.
Decision Analysis on Sustainable Value: Comparison of the London and Taiwan Markets for Product Integration of Family Security Services and Residential Fire Insurance
Authors: Lee Jen-Chieh , Lin Tyrone T.
Published: October 2020

This paper explores a decision analysis on product integration of family security services and residential fire insurance in the London and Taiwan markets by using the proposed mathematical models for counting sustainable value. This paper shows the five main different results between London and Taiwan markets with ten different parameters of the family security market, to find out the optimal number of family security integrated services for each security company in London. The improvement of the risk aversion effect based on risk and financial management will enhance the market share of the private security industries in the London and Taiwan markets. The results of this research can serve as a reference for the decision-making of private security industries on product integration under sustainable value consideration. The research findings highlight the potential benefits for both the private security industry and the insurance industry in their design and negotiation for product integration to improve both of business operation and achieve corporate social responsibility goals to match the sustainability in the future.
Gender Agreement and Assignment in Spanish Heritage Speakers: Does Frequency Matter?
Authors: Hur Esther , Lopez Otero Julio Cesar , Sanchez Liliana
Published: October 2020

Gender has been extensively studied in Spanish heritage speakers. However, lexical frequency effects have yet to be explored in depth. This study aimed to uncover the extent to which lexical frequency affects the acquisition of gender assignment and gender agreement and to account for possible factors behind heritage language variability. Thirty-nine English-dominant heritage speakers of Spanish completed a lexical knowledge screening task (Multilingual Naming Test (MiNT)) along with an elicited production task (EPT), a forced choice task (FCT), and a self-rating lexical frequency task (SRLFT). Heritage speakers performed more successfully with high-frequency lexical items in both the EPT and the FCT, which examined their acquisition of gender assignment and gender agreement, respectively. Noun canonicity also affected their performance in both tasks. However, heritage speakers presented differences between tasks—we found an overextension of the masculine as well as productive vocabulary knowledge effects in the EPT, whereas the FCT showed an overextension of the feminine and no productive vocabulary knowledge effects. We suggest that lexical frequency, determined by the SRLFT, and productive vocabulary knowledge, as measured by the MiNT, account for the variability in the acquisition of gender assignment but not on gender agreement, supporting previous claims that production is more challenging than comprehension for bilinguals.
Impact of Antiphase Boundaries on Structural, Magnetic and Vibrational Properties of Fe3Al
Authors: Friák Martin , Černý Miroslav , Všianská Monika , Šob Mojmír
Published: October 2020

We performed a quantum-mechanical study of the effect of antiphase boundaries (APBs) on structural, magnetic and vibrational properties of Fe3Al compound. The studied APBs have the {001} crystallographic orientation of their sharp interfaces and they are characterized by a 1/2⟨111⟩ shift of atomic planes. There are two types of APB interfaces formed by either two adjacent planes of Fe atoms or by two adjacent planes containing both Fe and Al atoms. The averaged APB interface energy is found to be 80 mJ/m2 and we estimate the APB interface energy of each of the two types of interfaces to be within the range of 40–120 mJ/m2. The studied APBs affect local magnetic moments of Fe atoms near the defects, increasing magnetic moments of FeII atoms by as much as 11.8% and reducing those of FeI atoms by up to 4%. When comparing phonons in the Fe3Al with and without APBs within the harmonic approximation, we find a very strong influence of APBs. In particular, we have found a significant reduction of gap in frequencies that separates phonon modes below 7.9 THz and above 9.2 THz in the defect-free Fe3Al. All the APBs-induced changes result in a higher free energy, lower entropy and partly also a lower harmonic phonon energy in Fe3Al with APBs when compared with those in the defect-free bulk Fe3Al.
Ferrierite and Its Delaminated Forms Modified with Copper as Effective Catalysts for NH3-SCO Process
Authors: Święs Aneta , Rutkowska Małgorzata , Kowalczyk Andrzej , Díaz Urbano , Palomares Antonio E. , Chmielarz Lucjan
Published: October 2020

Ferrierites and their delaminated forms (ITQ-6), containing aluminum or titanium in the zeolite framework, were synthetized and modified with copper by an ion-exchange method. The obtained samples were characterized with respect to their chemical composition (ICP-OES), structure (XRD, UV-Vis DRS), textural parameters (N2-sorption), surface acidity (NH3-TPD), form and reducibility of deposited copper species (UV-Vis DRS and H2-TPR). Ferrierites and delaminated ITQ-6 zeolites modified with copper were studied as catalysts for the selective catalytic oxidation of ammonia to dinitrogen (NH3-SCO). It was shown that aggregated copper oxide species, which were preferentially formed on Ti-zeolites, were catalytically active in direct low-temperature ammonia oxidation to NO, while copper introduced into Al-zeolites was present mainly in the form of monomeric copper cations catalytically active in selective reduction of NO by ammonia to dinitrogen. It was postulated that ammonia oxidation in the presence of the studied catalysts proceeds according to the internal-selective catalytic reduction mechanism (i-SCR) and therefore the suitable ratio between aggregated copper oxide species and monomeric copper cations is necessary to obtain active and selective catalysts for the NH3-SCO process. Cu/Al-ITQ-6 presented the best catalytic properties possibly due to the most optimal ratio of these copper species.
Vanadium Chemical Compounds Forms in Wastes of Vanadium Pentoxide Production
Authors: Volkov Anton , Kologrieva Ulyana , Kovalev Anatoly , Wainstein Dmitry , Vakhrushev Vladimir
Published: October 2020

A big amount of solid wastes or dump sludges is generated after leaching vanadium (V) from a roasted mixture. As the vanadium content in these tailings is comparable to its concentration in traditional vanadium sources such as titanomagnetite ores or a vanadium converter slag, these wastes could be recycled to extract additional vanadium. Therefore, this research was aimed on studies of vanadium-containing sludges resulting from hydrometallurgical production of vanadium pentoxide to find an optimal technology for V extraction. The material composition of industrial and synthetic sludge samples was studied by X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), secondary ions mass spectroscopy (SIMS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS, ESCA). The paper demonstrates the presence of vanadium in sludges, not only in spinels in 3+ oxidation degree, but also in other compounds containing V4+ and V5+. It was found that vanadium substitutes a set of elements in minerals except spinel. The dependence between the content of insoluble vanadium compounds and V oxidation degree was determined.
S-Functionalized Tripods with Monomethylene Spacers: Routes to Tetrairon(III) Single-Molecule Magnets with Ultrashort Tethering Groups
Authors: Cornia Andrea , Danieli Chiara , Meglioli Fabio , Tancini Erik , Nicolini Alessio , Rodriguez-Douton Maria Jesus , Barra Anne-Laure , Affronte Marco , Sessoli Roberta
Published: October 2020

The organization of single-molecule magnets (SMMs) on surfaces is a mainstream research path in molecular magnetism. Of special importance is the control of grafting geometry in chemisorbed monolayers on metal surfaces. We herein present the synthesis, solid-state structure, and magnetic characterization of propeller-like tetrairon(III) SMMs containing the shortest-reported tethering groups for gold surfaces. Functionalization of molecular structure is attained using 2-R-2-(hydroxymethyl)propane-1,3-diol tripodal proligands (H3LR). The R substituents comprise a monomethylene spacer and three different terminations known to act as stable precursors of S-Au bonds (R = CH2SCN, CH2SAc and CH2SSnBu). These chemical groups are shown to be chemically compatible with the tetrairon(III) core and to afford fully-functional SMMs in crystalline form and in fair to excellent yields.
On the Playing Field to Improve: A Goal for Autism
Authors: Vetri Luigi , Roccella Michele
Published: October 2020

In recent years, there has been a renewed attention to lifestyle-based interventions in people with autism spectrum disorder. The positive effects of physical exercise programs have been well documented both in healthy people and in people with disabilities in the fields of psychological well-being, cognitive outcome and medical health. There is much less evidence about the opportunity to attempt a team-group sport for people with autism. Although researchers seem to suggest an overall positive effect, playing team sports for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) means dealing with difficulties in social interactions and limitations in motor functions. This narrative review aims to report studies about the effects, improvements and difficulties that people with autism have to face when they play the world’s most popular team sport: soccer.
On the Influence of Control Type and Strain Rate on the Lifetime of 50CrMo4
Authors: Geilen Max Benedikt , Schönherr Josef Arthur , Klein Marcus , Leininger Dominik Sebastian , Giertler Alexander , Krupp Ulrich , Oechsner Matthias
Published: October 2020

In this study, we investigate the influence of control type and strain rate on the lifetime of specimens manufactured from 50CrMo4. This influence is described by a strain rate dependent method that uses cyclic stress strain curves to correct displacement-controlled cyclic test results. The objective of this correction is to eliminate the stress related differences between displacement-controlled cyclic test results and force-controlled cyclic test results. The method is applied to the results of ultrasonic fatigue tests of six different combinations of heat treatment, specimen geometry (notch factor) and atmosphere. In a statistical analysis, the corrected results show an improved agreement with test results obtained on conventional fatigue testing equipment with similar specimens: the standard deviation in combined data sets is significantly reduced (p = 4.1%). We discuss the literature on intrinsic and extrinsic strain rate effects in carbon steels.
A Novel Microfluidic Method Utilizing a Hydrofoil Structure to Improve Circulating Tumor Cell Enrichment: Design and Analytical Validation
Authors: Özkayar Gürhan , Mutlu Ege , Şahin Şebnem , Demircan Yalçın Yağmur , Töral Taylan , Külah Haluk , Yildirim Ender , Zorlu Özge , Özgür Ebru
Published: October 2020

Being one of the major pillars of liquid biopsy, isolation and characterization of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) during cancer management provides critical information on the evolution of cancer and has great potential to increase the success of therapies. In this article, we define a novel strategy to effectively enrich CTCs from whole blood based on size, utilizing a spiral microfluidic channel embedded with a hydrofoil structure at the downstream of the spiral channel. The hydrofoil increases the distance between the streams of CTCs and peripheral blood cells, which are already distributed about two focal axes by the spiral channel, thereby improving the resolution of the separation. Analytical validation of the system has been carried out using Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF7) breast cancer cell lines spiked into blood samples from healthy donors, and the performance of the system in terms of white blood cell (WBC) depletion, CTC recovery rate and cell viability has been shown in single or two-step process: by passing the sample once or twice through the microfluidic chip. Single step process yielded high recovery (77.1%), viable (84.7%) CTCs. When the collected cell suspension is re-processed by the same chip, recovery decreases to 65.5%, while the WBC depletion increases to 88.3%, improving the purity. Cell viability of >80% was preserved after two-step process. The novel microfluidic chip is a good candidate for CTC isolation applications requiring high recovery rate and viability, including functional downstream analyses for variety of cancer types.
Diversity and Bioactive Potential of Actinobacteria Isolated from a Coastal Marine Sediment in Northern Portugal
Authors: Ribeiro Inês , Girão Mariana , Alexandrino Diogo A. M. , Ribeiro Tiago , Santos Chiara , Pereira Filipe , Mucha Ana P. , Urbatzka Ralph , Leão Pedro N. , Carvalho Maria F.
Published: October 2020

Natural compounds have had increasing applications in the biotechnological sector, with a large fraction of these substances being channeled to the pharmaceutical industry due to their important pharmacological properties. The discovery of new bioactive molecules with novel mechanisms of action constitutes a promising solution for the design of alternative therapeutic solutions. Actinobacteria are a large group of morphologically and physiologically diverse bacteria well known for their production of biotechnologically relevant compounds. The Portuguese coast is scantly explored in terms of Actinobacteria diversity and respective bioactive potential, offering a good opportunity to find new Actinobacteria taxa and bioactive natural products. In this study, we investigated the Actinobacteria diversity associated with a sediment sample collected from the intertidal zone of a beach in northern Portugal, through a cultivation-dependent approach, and screened its antimicrobial and cytotoxic potential. A total of 52 Actinobacteria strains were recovered from the marine sediment, with the largest fraction of the isolates belonging to the genus Micromonospora. Bioactivity screening assays identified crude extracts of six Streptomyces strains active against C. albicans, exhibiting minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) values in the range of 3.90–125 μg mL−1. Twenty-five Actinobacteria crude extracts (obtained from strains of the genera Micromonospora, Streptomyces and Actinomadura) exhibited significant effects on the viability of at least one tested cancer cell line (breast ductal carcinoma T-47D and liver hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2). The Actinobacteria extracts demonstrating activity in the antimicrobial and/or cytotoxic assays were subjected to metabolomic analysis (Mass spectrometry (MS)-based dereplication and molecular networking analyses), indicating the presence of four clusters that may represent new natural products. The results obtained demonstrate the importance of bioprospecting underexplored environments, like the Portuguese coast, for enhancing the discovery of new natural products, and call attention to the relevance of preserving the natural genetic diversity of coastal environments.
Proteomic Adaptation of Streptococcus pneumoniae to the Antimicrobial Peptide Human Beta Defensin 3 (hBD3) in Comparison to Other Cell Surface Stresses
Authors: Mücke Pierre-Alexander , Ostrzinski Anne , Hammerschmidt Sven , Maaß Sandra , Becher Dörte
Published: October 2020

The antimicrobial peptide human Beta defensin 3 (hBD3) is an essential part of the innate immune system and is involved in protection against respiratory pathogens by specifically permeabilizing bacterial membranes. The Gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae causes serious diseases including pneumonia, meningitis, and septicemia, despite being frequently exposed to human defense molecules, including hBD3 during colonization and infection. Thus, the question arises how pneumococci adapt to stress caused by antimicrobial peptides. We addressed this subject by analyzing the proteome of S. pneumoniae after treatment with hBD3 and compared our data with the proteomic changes induced by LL-37, another crucial antimicrobial peptide present in the human respiratory tract. As antimicrobial peptides usually cause membrane perturbations, the response to the membrane active cationic detergent cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) was examined to assess the specificity of the pneumococcal response to antimicrobial peptides. In brief, hBD3 and LL-37 induce a similar response in pneumococci and especially, changes in proteins with annotated transporter and virulence function have been identified. However, LL-37 causes changes in the abundance of cell surface modification proteins that cannot be observed after treatment with hBD3. Interestingly, CTAB induces unique proteomic changes in S. pneumoniae. Though, the detergent seems to activate a two-component system that is also activated in response to antimicrobial peptide stress (TCS 05). Overall, our data represent a novel resource on pneumococcal adaptation to specific cell surface stresses on a functional level. This knowledge can potentially be used to develop strategies to circumvent pneumococcal resistance to antimicrobial peptides.
Association of Combined Sero-Positivity to Helicobacter pylori and Streptococcus gallolyticus with Risk of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Epplein Meira , Le Marchand Loïc , Cover Timothy L. , Song Mingyang , Blot William J. , Peek Richard M. , Teras Lauren R. , Visvanathan Kala , Chen Yu , Sesso Howard D. , Zeleniuch-Jacquotte Anne , Berndt Sonja I. , Potter John D. , Ryser Marc D. , Haiman Christopher A. , Wassertheil-Smoller Sylvia , Tinker Lesley F. , Waterboer Tim , Butt Julia
Published: October 2020

Previously, we found that risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increased in individuals with serum antibody response to both Helicobacter pylori (HP) Vacuolating Cytotoxin (VacA) toxin or Streptococcus gallolyticus (SGG) pilus protein Gallo2178. In the present analysis, we tested the hypothesis that combined seropositivity to both antigens is a better indicator of CRC risk than seropositivity to single antigens. We used multiplex serologic assays to analyze pre-diagnostic serum for antibody responses from 4063 incident CRC cases and 4063 matched controls from 10 US cohorts. To examine whether combined SGG Gallo2178 and HP VacA sero-status was associated with CRC risk, we used conditional logistic regression models to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Compared to dual sero-negative individuals, there was no increased risk for individuals sero-positive to SGG Gallo2178 only (OR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.66–1.31) or to HP VacA only (OR: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.98–1.19). However, dual sero-positive individuals had a >50% increased odds of developing CRC (OR: 1.54; 95% CI: 1.16–2.04), suggesting an interaction between antibody responses to these two pathogens and CRC risk (pinteraction = 0.06). In conclusion, this study suggests that dual sero-positivity to HP VacA and SGG Gallo2178 is an indicator of increased risk of CRC.
The Diversity, Composition, and Putative Functions of Gill-Associated Bacteria of Bathymodiolin Mussel and Vesicomyid Clam from Haima Cold Seep, South China Sea
Authors: Ling Juan , Guan Hongxiang , Liu Lihua , Tao Jun , Li Jie , Dong Junde , Zhang Si
Published: October 2020

The Haima cold seep, which is one of the two active cold seeps in the South China Sea, is known for its great ecological importance. The seep bivalves are assumed to depend mainly on their bacterial symbiosis for survival and growth. However, information on the bacterial diversity, composition, and putative function of gill-associated of dominant dwelling animals in Haima cold seep remain elusive. Herein, we adopted a high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicons, and function prediction methods (Functional Annotation of Prokaryotic Taxa (FAPROTAX) and Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States (PICURUSTs)) to purposely illustrate the taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity, composition, and putative functions of the symbionts in bathymodiolin mussel Gigantidas haimaensis (Bivalvia: Mytilidae: Gigantidas) and vesicomyid clam Archivesica marissinica (Bivalvia: Glossoidea: Vesicomyidae). The predominant microbes of both species were Proteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria on the phylum and class level, respectively. The taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity of gill microbial communities in G. haimaensis were significantly different from those in A. marissinica (p < 0.05). Nine functional groups, including seven carbon-related biogeochemical groups, were identified through the FAPROTAX analysis. However, the most dominant groups for G. haimaensis and A. marissinica were both chemoheterotrophic. G. haimaensis and A. marissinica shared many pathways, however, 16 obtained Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) orthologous groups (42.11%) significantly differed between the two species (p < 0.05). These findings would provide insight into the functions of microbes in the element cycling and energy flow as well as the host-symbiont relationship of bivalves in the Haima cold seep environment.
Activation of the Cell Wall Stress Response in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infected by a Pf4 Phage Variant
Authors: Tortuel Damien , Tahrioui Ali , Rodrigues Sophie , Cambronel Mélyssa , Boukerb Amine M. , Maillot Olivier , Verdon Julien , Bere Emile , Nusser Michael , Brenner-Weiss Gerald , David Audrey , Azuama Onyedikachi Cecil , Feuilloley Marc G. J. , Orange Nicole , Lesouhaitier Olivier , Cornelis Pierre , Chevalier Sylvie , Bouffartigues Emeline
Published: October 2020

Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 has an integrated Pf4 prophage in its genome, encoding a relatively well-characterized filamentous phage, which contributes to the bacterial biofilm organization and maturation. Pf4 variants are considered as superinfectives when they can re-infect and kill the prophage-carrying host. Herein, the response of P. aeruginosa H103 to Pf4 variant infection was investigated. This phage variant caused partial lysis of the bacterial population and modulated H103 physiology. We show by confocal laser scanning microscopy that a Pf4 variant-infection altered P. aeruginosa H103 biofilm architecture either in static or dynamic conditions. Interestingly, in the latter condition, numerous cells displayed a filamentous morphology, suggesting a link between this phenotype and flow-related forces. In addition, Pf4 variant-infection resulted in cell envelope stress response, mostly mediated by the AlgU and SigX extracytoplasmic function sigma factors (ECFσ). AlgU and SigX involvement may account, at least partly, for the enhanced expression level of genes involved in the biosynthesis pathways of two matrix exopolysaccharides (Pel and alginates) and bis-(3′-5′)-cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) metabolism.
Mycobacterium uberis Infection in the Subcutaneous Tissue of the Radius/Ulna Area of a Cow
Authors: Michelet Lorraine , Boschiroli Maria Laura
Published: October 2020

Mycobacterium uberis (M. uberis) is a recently described non-tuberculous mycobacterium phylogenetically close to Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae) and Mycobacterium lepromatosis (M. lepromatosis). This pathogen classically causes nodular thelitis in cattle and goats. Here, we discuss what seems to be the first described case of M. uberis infection in a novel anatomical site, in the proximal or distal position (information not available) of the radius/ulna area of a cow. As this case was discovered in the framework of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) surveillance program in France, this type of infection could interfere with the screening and diagnostic tools employed for bTB.
In Vivo and In Vitro Virulence Analysis of Four Genetically Distinct Toxoplasma gondii Lineage III Isolates
Authors: Uzelac Aleksandra , Klun Ivana , Ćirković Vladimir , Djurković-Djaković Olgica
Published: October 2020

Toxoplasma gondii archetypes II and III are mildly virulent, yet virulence of variant strains is largely unknown. While lineage II dominates in humans in Europe, lineage III strains are present in various intermediate hosts. In Serbia, lineage III represents 24% of the population structure and occurs most frequently in domestic animals, implying a significant presence in the human food web. In this study, the virulence of four genetically distinct lineage III variants was assessed in vivo and in vitro. In vivo, two strains were shown to be intermediately virulent and two mildly virulent, with cumulative mortalities of 69.4%, 38.8%, 10.7%, and 6.8%, respectively. The strain with the highest mortality has previously been isolated in Europe and may be endemic; the strain with the lowest mortality matches ToxoDB#54, while the remaining two represent novel genotypes. Identical alleles were detected at ROP5, ROP16, ROP18, and GRA15. A set of in vitro analyses revealed proliferation and plaque formation as virulence factors. Higher levels of expression of ENO2 in intermediately virulent strains point to enhanced metabolism as the underlying mechanism. The results suggest that metabolic attenuation, and possibly stage conversion, may be delayed in virulent strains.