bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rheological Properties, Surface Microhardness, and Dentin Shear Bond Strength of Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer Cements Containing Methacrylate-Functionalized Polyacids and Spherical Pre-Reacted Glass Fillers
Authors: Thepveera Whithipa , Potiprapanpong Wisitsin , Toneluck Arnit , Channasanon Somruethai , Khamsuk Chutikarn , Monmaturapoj Naruporn , Tanodekaew Siriporn , Panpisut Piyaphong
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to prepare experimental resin-modified glass ionomer cements (RMGICs) containing low levels of hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) for pulp protection. Liquid and powder phases of the experimental RMGICs were polyacid functionalized with methacrylate groups and spherical pre-reacted glass fillers (SPG). Two types of liquid phase containing 0 wt. % HEMA (CM liquid) or 5 wt. % HEMA (CMH liquid) were formulated. The experimental RMGICs were prepared by mixing SPG fillers with CM liquid (F1) or CMH liquid (F2). Rheological properties were examined using a strain-controlled rheometer (n = 5). The Vickers microhardness (n = 5) and dentin shear bond strength (SBS) (n = 10) of the materials were tested. Commercial pulp protection materials (Vitrebond and TheraCal LC) were used as comparisons. The viscosity and surface microhardness of F1 (22 m Pa·s, 18 VHN) and F2 (18 m Pa·s, 16 VHN) were significantly higher than those of Vitrebond (6 mPa·s, 6 VHN) and TheraCal (0.1 mPa·s, 7 VHN). The SBS of F1 (10.7 MPa) and F2 (11.9 MPa) was comparable to that of Vitrebond (15.4 MPa) but higher than that of TheraCal LC (5.6 MPa). The addition of 5 wt. % HEMA showed no significant effect on viscosity, surface microhardness, or SBS of the experimental RMGICs. The experimental materials showed higher viscosity and microhardness but similar SBS when compared with the commercial RMGIC.
Do Executive Attentional Processes Uniquely or Commonly Explain Psychometric g and Correlations in the Positive Manifold? A Structural Equation Modeling and Network-Analysis Approach to Investigate the Process Overlap Theory
Authors: Troche Stefan J. , von Gugelberg Helene M. , Pahud Olivier , Rammsayer Thomas H.
Published: July 2021

One of the best-established findings in intelligence research is the pattern of positive correlations among various intelligence tests. Although this so-called positive manifold became the conceptual foundation of many theoretical accounts of intelligence, the very nature of it has remained unclear. Only recently, Process Overlap Theory (POT) proposed that the positive manifold originated from overlapping domain-general, executive processes. To test this assumption, the functional relationship between different aspects of executive attention and the positive manifold was investigated by re-analyzing an existing dataset (N = 228). Psychometric reasoning, speed, and memory performance were assessed by a short form of the Berlin Intelligence Structure test. Two aspects of executive attention (sustained and selective attention) and speed of decision making were measured by a continuous performance test, a flanker task, and a Hick task, respectively. Traditional structural equation modeling, representing the positive manifold by a g factor, as well as network analyses, investigating the differential effects of the two aspects of executive attention and speed of decision making on the specific correlations of the positive manifold, suggested that selective attention, sustained attention, and speed of decision making explained the common but not the unique portions of the positive manifold. Thus, we failed to provide evidence for POT’s assumption that the positive manifold is the result of overlapping domain-general processes. This does not mean that domain-general processes other than those investigated here will not be able to show the pattern of results predicted by POT.
Numerical Study of Efficiency Indices to Evaluate the Effect of Layout Mode of Artificial Reef Unit on Flow Field
Authors: Zhang Jiating , Zhu Lixin , Liang Zhenlin , Sun Liyuan , Nie Zhaoyi , Wang Jiahao , Xie Wude , Jiang Zhaoyang
Published: July 2021

Artificial reefs (ARs) have been widely used to restore the seabed habitat and protect biodiversity. They can effectively increase the dissolved oxygen content in the bottom water layer by their disturbing effect of upwelling and downwelling. The bottom water is prone to hypoxia in summer due to the extreme weather of the global climate and excessive biomass in some marine ranching in northern China. Therefore, how to effectively use the upwelling effect of artificial reefs to alleviate this problem is a necessary subject of research. Generally, ARs are arranged by different intervals in a unit form on the seafloor, and the flow field effect is different from that of the individual reefs. However, few studies have been focused on the effect of layout mode on the flow field of a unit reef (UR). In this paper, we selected the interval between reefs (IR) and the angle of inflow (AI) as the influencing factors to study the flow field effect of UR. The upwelling and wake regions of 64 URs were presented by the efficiency and disturbance indices related to the flow characteristics and proposed an optimal layout mode having the best performance of the upwelling effect. The results showed that the interactions among the AI, the transverse, and longitudinal IRs were significant, and the AI has a significant influence on the flow field. These indices were effective and contribute to the layout optimization of UR. The AI close to 45° has a significant influence on the flow field effect of UR.
Retinal Vascular Signs as Screening and Prognostic Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Current Evidence
Authors: Aronov Michael , Allon Raviv , Stave Danielle , Belkin Michael , Margalit Eyal , Fabian Ido Didi , Rosenzweig Barak
Published: July 2021

Background: The substantial burden of kidney disease fosters interest in new ways of screening for early disease diagnosis, especially by non-invasive imaging. Increasing evidence for an association between retinal microvascular signs and kidney disease prompted us to investigate the relevant current literature on such an association systematically by performing a meta-analysis of our findings. Methods: We scrutinized the current literature by searching PubMed and Embase databases from for clinical studies of the association between retinal microvascular signs and prevalent or incident kidney disease. After excluding cases that did not meet our criteria, we extracted relevant data from 42 published studies (9 prospective, 32 cross-sectional, and 1 retrospective). Results: Our investigation yielded significant associations between retinal vascular changes (including retinopathy and retinal vascular diameter) and kidney dysfunction (including chronic kidney disease (CKD), end-stage renal disease (ESRD), albuminuria, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline). According to our meta-analysis, retinopathy was associated with ESRD (hazard ratio (HR) 2.12 (95% confidence interval CI; 1.39–3.22)) and with CKD prevalence in the general population (odds ratio (OR) 1.31 (95% CI; 1.14–1.50)), and specifically in type 2 diabetic patients (OR 1.68 (95% CI; 1.68–2.16)). CRAE was associated with prevalent CKD (OR 1.41 (95% CI; 1.09–1.82)). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the retinal microvasculature can provide essential data about concurrent kidney disease status and predict future risk for kidney disease development and progression.
Creative Accounting and the Possibility of Its Detection in the Evaluation of the Company by Expert
Authors: Adámiková Eva , Čorejová Tatiana
Published: July 2021

The value of the company is influenced by a large group of factors that experts should take into account, in the evaluation process, and incorporate into their calculations. The paper is based on the knowledge and experience gained from more than 15 years of forensic practice and more than 60 expert opinions related to determining the value of the company. It clearly states, in selected two representative companies, how significantly creative accounting can influence the final value of the company. Therefore, it is necessary to think about how to eliminate these possible interventions in the process of valuing the company. Background: Creative accounting is an important issue that is being addressed worldwide. It can have significant impacts in many areas, but in the article, we focus specifically on the area of determining the value of the company in the companies of the Slovak Republic. Methods: Several methods are used, such as specifically selected methods of creative accounting, methods of determining the general value of the company’s assets, specifically the property method, and the business method were applied to companies. Subsequently, selected methods of determining creative accounting were used in the work. The Beneish model and the Piotroski model were selected for the needs of the expert’s methodological procedures. Results: From all the findings in our study, it follows that interventions in accounting can have a significant impact on the resulting value of the company. It depends on what kind of intervention is applied to the accounts and whether the expert is able to detect it. Conclusions: The result of the research, which is described in the article, is a proposal for the use of selected methods of detection of creative accounting by experts in the evaluation process. The paper proposes a coefficient of creative accounting, which adjusts the resulting value of the company. It is the first design created by longer-term research. In the process of determining the value of the company in the conditions of the Slovak Republic, interventions of this kind have not yet been applied to the final value. The proposed coefficient is one of several proposals that were the result of the dissertation.
Risk Disclosure and Corporate Cash Holdings
Authors: Haj-Salem Issal , Hussainey Khaled
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we extend corporate disclosure and corporate cash holdings literature by testing whether corporate voluntary risk disclosure affects corporate cash holdings for a sample of Tunisian non-financial listed companies. As a measure of risk disclosure, we use manual content analysis to count the number of risk-related sentences in the narrative sections of corporate annual reports. As a measure of corporate cash holdings, we use the ratio of cash and cash equivalent over the total assets. Using a sample of 140 firm-year observations for the period of 2008–2013, we find that corporate risk disclosure has a negative impact on corporate cash holdings. Our results are consistent with agency, legitimacy and impression management theories. Our paper adds to the existing literature by being the first empirical evidence for the impact of risk disclosure on cash holdings. Our findings offer policy implications relevant for the current debate on the reliability of narrative risk disclosure and whether managers inform or obfuscate stakeholders by disclosing more risk-related information in their annual report narratives.
Novel Adsorbent Based on Banana Peel Waste for Removal of Heavy Metal Ions from Synthetic Solutions
Authors: Negroiu Mihai , Țurcanu Anca Andreea , Matei Ecaterina , Râpă Maria , Covaliu Cristina Ileana , Predescu Andra Mihaela , Pantilimon Cristian Mircea , Coman George , Predescu Cristian
Published: July 2021

Due to its valuable compounds, food waste has been gaining attention in different applications, such as life quality and environment. Combined with circular economy requirements, a valorization method for waste, especially banana waste, was to convert them into adsorbents with advanced properties. The banana waste, after thermal treatment, was used with high removal performances (100%) for the removal of heavy metals, such as Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn, but their small particle size makes them very hard to recover and reuse. For this reason, a biopolymeric matrix was used to incorporate the banana waste. The matrix was chosen for its remarkable properties, such as low cost, biodegradability, low carbon footprint, and reduced environmental impact. In this research, different types of materials (simple banana peel ash BPA and combined with biopolymeric matrix, ALG–BPA, CS–BPA) were prepared, characterized, and tested. The materials were characterized by means of attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and tested for the removal of metal ions from synthetic solutions using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The ALG–BPA material proved to be the most efficient in the removal of heavy metal ions from synthetic solution, reaching even 100% metal removal for Cr, Fe, Pb, and Zn, while the CS-based materials were the least efficient, presenting the best values for Cr and Fe ions with a removal efficiency of 34.14% and 28.38%, respectively. By adding BPA to CS, the adsorption properties of the material were slightly improved, but also only for Cr and Fe ions, to 37.09% and 57.78%.
A FEM-Green Approach for Magnetic Field Problems with Open Boundaries
Authors: Lobry Jacques
Published: July 2021

A new finite element method/boundary element method (FEM/BEM) scheme is proposed for the solution of the 2D magnetic static and quasi-static problems with unbounded domains. The novelty is an original approach in the treatment of the outer region. The related domain integral is eliminated at the discrete level by using the finite element approximation of the fundamental solutions (Green’s functions) at every node of the related mesh. This “FEM-Green” approach replaces the standard boundary element method. It is simpler to implement because no integration on the boundary of the domain is required. Then, the method leads to a substantially reduced computational burden. Moreover, the coupling with finite elements is more natural since it is based on the same Galerkin approximation. Some examples with open boundary and nonlinear materials are presented and compared with the standard finite element method.
Input-to-State Stability and Stabilization of Nonlinear Impulsive Positive Systems
Authors: Xue Yiqing , Zhao Ping
Published: July 2021

This paper focuses on the problems of input-to-state stability (ISS) and stabilization for nonlinear impulsive positive systems (NIPS). Using the max-separable ISS Lyapunov function method, a sufficient condition on ISS is given for general NIPS. On that basis, the ISS criteria for linear impulsive positive systems (LIPS) and affine nonlinear impulsive positive systems (ANIPS) are given. Through them, ISS properties can be directly judged from the algebraic and differential characteristics of the systems. Then, utilizing the ISS criteria, state-feedback and impulsive controllers are designed for LIPS and ANIPS, respectively, which make the systems input-to-state stabilizable. Lastly, some numerical examples are given to verify the effectiveness of our results.
Stabilization and the Design of Switching Laws of a Class of Switched Singularly Perturbed Systems via the Composite Control
Authors: Chao Chun-Tang , Chen Ding-Horng , Chiou Juing-Shian
Published: July 2021

This paper proves that the controller design for switched singularly perturbed systems can be synthesized from the controllers of individual slow–fast subsystems. Under the switching rules of individual slow–fast subsystems, switched singularly perturbed systems can be stabilized under a small value of ε. The switching rule is designed on the basis of state transformation of the individual subsystems.
Mechanisms of Cracking in Laser Welding of Magnesium Alloy AZ91D
Authors: Zhou Wei , Aprilia Aprilia , Mark Chee Kong
Published: July 2021

Considerable research has been carried out to study the laser welding of magnesium alloys. However, the studies are mainly devoted to butt welding, and there has been limited information in the published literature concerning the bead-on-plate laser welding of AZ91D, even though bead-on-plate welding is required for the repair of cast AZ91D parts with surface defects. In the present investigation, surface cracking of the weld metal was observed when an AZ91D magnesium alloy was bead-on-plate welded using the laser welding method. This paper presents the experimental results and analyses to show that the cracking is “solidification cracking” initiated from the weld surface under high thermal stresses. This is in contrast to the “liquation cracking” observed in heat affected zones in tungsten inert gas welding of the same magnesium alloy. Laser power was found to be one of the main factors affecting the distance of the crack propagation. The higher laser power resulted in longer crack propagation distance into the weld metal. It is demonstrated that hot cracking could be avoided by lowering the laser power and welding speed.
Simulation Analysis of Cluster Effect of High-Shear Low-Pressure Grinding with Flexible Abrasive Tools
Authors: Tian Chengjin , Han Jinguo , Tian Yebing , Liu Bing , Gu Zhiqiang , Hu Xintao
Published: July 2021

Based on the clustering effect of shear-thickening fluids (STFs), a high-shear low-pressure flexible grinding wheel has been developed. In order to explore the material removal mechanism, the coupled Eulerian—Lagrangian (CEL) method is adopted to simulate the novel grinding process. The simulation results show that particle clustering effects do occur at the tangential and bottom positions of the micro-convex peak when it instantaneously strikes the workpiece surface. The particle clusters drive the harder abrasive particles to resist the strong interactions of micro-convex peaks. The micro-convex peaks are removed due to the cutting effect of the harder abrasive particles. Compared with traditional grinding, the ratio of tangential force to normal force for the high-shear low-pressure flexible grinding wheel is improved. The various trends in force ratio are consistent with the experimental results, which verifies the effectiveness of high-shear low-pressure grinding.
Debaryomyces hansenii Is a Real Tool to Improve a Diversity of Characteristics in Sausages and Dry-Meat Products
Authors: Ramos-Moreno Laura , Ruiz-Pérez Francisco , Rodríguez-Castro Elisa , Ramos José
Published: July 2021

Debaryomyces hansenii yeast represents a promising target for basic and applied biotechnological research It is known that D. hansenii is abundant in sausages and dry-meat products, but information regarding its contribution to their characteristics is blurry and contradictory. The main goal in this review was to define the biological contribution of D. hansenii to the final features of these products. Depending on multiple factors, D. hansenii may affect diverse physicochemical characteristics of meat products. However, there is general agreement about the significant generation of volatile and aromatic compounds caused by the metabolic activities of this yeast, which consequently provide a tendency for improved consumer acceptance. We also summarize current evidence highlighting that it is not possible to predict what the results would be after the inoculation of a meat product with a selected D. hansenii strain without a pivotal previous study. The use of D. hansenii as a biocontrol agent and to manufacture new meat products by decreasing preservatives are examples of exploring research lines that will complement current knowledge and contribute to prepare new and more ecological products.
Probiotics in the Therapeutic Arsenal of Dermatologists
Authors: Navarro-López Vicente , Núñez-Delegido Eva , Ruzafa-Costas Beatriz , Sánchez-Pellicer Pedro , Agüera-Santos Juan , Navarro-Moratalla Laura
Published: July 2021

During the last years, numerous studies have described the presence of significant gut and skin dysbiosis in some dermatological diseases such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and acne, among others. How the skin and the gut microbiome play a role in those skin conditions is something to explore, which will shed light on understanding the origin and implication of the microbiota in their pathophysiology. Several studies provide evidence for the influence of probiotic treatments that target the modulation of the skin and intestinal microbiota in those disorders and a positive influence of orally administered probiotics on the course of these dermatosis. The pathologies in which the therapeutic role of the probiotic has been explored are mainly atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and acne. This article aims to review these three dermatological diseases, their relationship with the human microbiota and specially the effect of probiotics usage. In addition, the pathophysiology in each of them and the hypotheses about possible mechanisms of the action of probiotics will be described.
Fungicide Resistance Evolving in Ramularia collo-cygni Population in Estonia
Authors: Kiiker Riinu , Juurik Marite , Mäe Andres
Published: July 2021

Ramularia leaf spot caused by the fungus Ramularia collo-cygni, has recently become widespread in Estonian barley fields. Currently, disease control in barley fields relies on SDHI and DMI fungicides, which might be threatened by R. collo-cygni isolates that are well-adapted to fungicide pressure. In a two-year study, 353 R. collo-cygni isolates were collected from spring barley fields in Estonia. A total of 153 R. collo-cygni isolates were examined for sensitivity to azoles (DMIs; prothioconazole-desthio, epoxiconazole, mefentrifluconazole) and succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (SDHIs; boscalid, fluxapyroxad). Epoxiconazole was the least effective and a new fungicide mefentrifluconazole was the most effective DMI. Among SDHIs, fluxapyroxad was more effective than boscalid. Also, single R. collo-cygni isolates with high resistance to tested fungicides occurred, which could affect fungicide control of the pathogen. The entire collection of R. collo-cygni was analysed for mutations in fungicide target proteins. Six mutations were identified in CYP51 gene, the most dominant being I381T, I384T, and S459C. Also, numerous point mutations in the SdhC gene were present. The mutation G143A in strobilurin target protein CytB dominates in over 80% of the R. collo-cygni population, confirming the low efficacy of strobilurin fungicides in barley disease control.
Competing Sorption of Se(IV) and Se(VI) on Schwertmannite
Authors: Marouane Bouchra , Chen Ning , Obst Martin , Peiffer Stefan
Published: July 2021

Schwertmannite (SHM) is a naturally occurring mineral that has been shown to effectively scavenge oxyanions from contaminated water. In this study, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray absorption spectroscopy techniques in combination with wet-chemical techniques were used to study the competitive sorption of Se(IV) and Se(VI) at pH 3. The experiments were conducted with three types of schwertmannite obtained from oxidative synthesis, biogenic synthesis and high-pressure compaction at different initial Se concentrations and mixing ratios for 48 h and 56 days, respectively. A threshold value for the uptake mechanisms was identified, which reflects the amount of easily exchangeable sulphate (~0.5 mmol/g). At adsorbate concentrations below this threshold, an inner-sphere corner-sharing bidentate binuclear complex forms upon exchange with sulphate. At higher concentrations, both oxyanions become bound to SHM through co-occurrence of mainly inner-sphere and partly outer-sphere corner-sharing bidentate binuclear complexes with Fe(III) containing surface sites. Single species experiments clearly indicate a higher affinity of SHM for Se(IV). However, in mixed species experiments, competitive sorption occurs with equal or even preferential uptake of Se(VI) at concentrations much lower than the threshold value, presumably due to geometrical similarity between selenate and sulphate, and increasing preference for Se(IV) at high Se concentrations.
Oxazolidinone Antibiotics: Chemical, Biological and Analytical Aspects
Authors: Foti Claudia , Piperno Anna , Scala Angela , Giuffrè Ottavia
Published: July 2021

This review covers the main aspects concerning the chemistry, the biological activity and the analytical determination of oxazolidinones, the only new class of synthetic antibiotics advanced in clinical use over the past 50 years. They are characterized by a chemical structure including the oxazolidone ring with the S configuration of substituent at C5, the acylaminomethyl group linked to C5 and the N-aryl substituent. The synthesis of oxazolidinones has gained increasing interest due to their unique mechanism of action that assures high antibiotic efficiency and low susceptibility to resistance mechanisms. Here, the main features of oxazolidinone antibiotics licensed or under development, such as Linezolid, Sutezolid, Eperezolid, Radezolid, Contezolid, Posizolid, Tedizolid, Delpazolid and TBI-223, are discussed. As they are protein synthesis inhibitors active against a wide spectrum of multidrug-resistant Gram-positive bacteria, their biological activity is carefully analyzed, together with the drug delivery systems recently developed to overcome the poor oxazolidinone water solubility. Finally, the most employed analytical techniques for oxazolidinone determination in different matrices, such as biological fluids, tissues, drugs and natural waters, are reviewed. Most are based on HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) coupled with UV-Vis or mass spectrometer detectors, but, to a lesser extent are also based on spectrofluorimetry or voltammetry.
Ziziphus nummularia Attenuates the Malignant Phenotype of Human Pancreatic Cancer Cells: Role of ROS
Authors: Mesmar Joelle , Fardoun Manal M. , Abdallah Rola , Al Dhaheri Yusra , Yassine Hadi M. , Iratni Rabah , Badran Adnan , Eid Ali H. , Baydoun Elias
Published: July 2021

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is the fourth leading cause of all cancer-related deaths. Despite major improvements in treating PC, low survival rate remains a major challenge, indicating the need for alternative approaches, including herbal medicine. Among medicinal plants is Ziziphus nummularia (family Rhamnaceae), which is a thorny shrub rich in bioactive molecules. Leaves of Ziziphus nummularia have been used to treat many pathological conditions, including cancer. However, their effects on human PC are still unknown. Here, we show that the treatment of human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells (Capan-2) with Ziziphus nummularia ethanolic extract (ZNE) (100–300 μg/mL) attenuated cell proliferation in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Pretreatment with N-acetylcysteine, an ROS scavenger, attenuated the anti-proliferative effect of ZNE. In addition, ZNE significantly decreased the migratory and invasive capacity of Capan-2 with a concomitant downregulation of integrin α2 and increased cell–cell aggregation. In addition, ZNE inhibited in ovo angiogenesis as well as reduced VEGF and nitric oxide levels. Furthermore, ZNE downregulated the ERK1/2 and NF-κB signaling pathways, which are known to drive tumorigenic and metastatic events. Taken together, our results suggest that ZNE can attenuate the malignant phenotype of Capan-2 by inhibiting hallmarks of PC. Our data also provide evidence for the potential anticancer effect of Ziziphus nummularia, which may represent a new resource of novel anticancer compounds, especially ones that can be utilized for the management of PC.
Understanding the Dependence of Nanoparticles Magnetothermal Properties on Their Size for Hyperthermia Applications: A Case Study for La-Sr Manganites
Authors: Ferreira Mylla C. , Pimentel Bruno , Andrade Vivian , Zverev Vladimir , Gimaev Radel R. , Pomorov Andrei S. , Pyatakov Alexander , Alekhina Yulia , Komlev Aleksei , Makarova Liudmila , Perov Nikolai , Reis Mario S.
Published: July 2021

Magnetic oxides are promising materials for alternative health diagnoses and treatments. The aim of this work is to understand the dependence of the heating power with the nanoparticle (NP) mean size, for the manganite composition La0.75Sr0.25MnO3 (LSMO)—the one with maximum critical temperature for the whole La/Sr ratio of the series. We have prepared four different samples, each one annealed at different temperatures, in order to produce different mean NP sizes, ranging from 26 nm up to 106 nm. Magnetization measurements revealed a FC-ZFC irreversibility and from the coercive field as function of temperature we determined the blocking temperature. A phase diagram was delivered as a function of the NP mean size and, based on this, the heating mechanism understood. Small NPs (26 nm) is heated up within the paramagnetic range of temperature (T>Tc), and therefore provide low heating efficiency; while bigger NPs are heated up, from room temperature, within the magnetically blocked range of temperature (TT>TB), for intermediate mean diameter size of 37 nm, with maximum efficiency of heat transfer.
Commuting to Work: Nucleolar Long Non-Coding RNA Control Ribosome Biogenesis from Near and Far
Authors: Mamontova Victoria , Trifault Barbara , Boten Lea , Burger Kaspar
Published: July 2021

Gene expression is an essential process for cellular growth, proliferation, and differentiation. The transcription of protein-coding genes and non-coding loci depends on RNA polymerases. Interestingly, numerous loci encode long non-coding (lnc)RNA transcripts that are transcribed by RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) and fine-tune the RNA metabolism. The nucleolus is a prime example of how different lncRNA species concomitantly regulate gene expression by facilitating the production and processing of ribosomal (r)RNA for ribosome biogenesis. Here, we summarise the current findings on how RNAPII influences nucleolar structure and function. We describe how RNAPII-dependent lncRNA can both promote nucleolar integrity and inhibit ribosomal (r)RNA synthesis by modulating the availability of rRNA synthesis factors in trans. Surprisingly, some lncRNA transcripts can directly originate from nucleolar loci and function in cis. The nucleolar intergenic spacer (IGS), for example, encodes nucleolar transcripts that counteract spurious rRNA synthesis in unperturbed cells. In response to DNA damage, RNAPII-dependent lncRNA originates directly at broken ribosomal (r)DNA loci and is processed into small ncRNA, possibly to modulate DNA repair. Thus, lncRNA-mediated regulation of nucleolar biology occurs by several modes of action and is more direct than anticipated, pointing to an intimate crosstalk of RNA metabolic events.
Sugars, Salt, Saturated Fat and Fibre Purchased through Packaged Food and Soft Drinks in Europe 2015–2018: Are We Making Progress?
Authors: Moz-Christofoletti Maria Alice , Wollgast Jan
Published: July 2021

The availability, purchase and consumption of foods high in fat, sugars and salt and low in fibre are linked to the high health and economic burden of noncommunicable diseases, including cancer, in Europe. Therefore, assessing the quality of the food offer is key as feedback to decision makers, as well as to identify good practices and areas of the food supply still requiring urgent action. We combined detailed market share and sales data with nutrition composition data to evaluate the nutritional quality of 14 packaged food and soft drinks categories sold across 22 European countries over the 2015–2018 period. Our analysis shows great variability of the nutritional composition within and among packaged food and soft drinks categories across European countries. Our estimates of the market-share weighted mean, a measure that integrates possible changes in nutrient content with the amount of a product sold to consumers, as well as daily per capita nutrient sale estimates, suggest a small but statistically significant progress in certain food categories only. Overall, the amounts of sugars, saturated fat, salt and fibre being sold to European citizens through these products is not improving to an extent to meet public health objectives.
Erratum: Xavier et al. High Maternal Omega-3 Supplementation Dysregulates Body Weight and Leptin in Newborn Male and Female Rats: Implications for Hypothalamic Developmental Programming. Nutrients 2021, 13, 89
Authors: Xavier Soniya , Gili Jasmine , McGowan Peter , Younesi Simin , Wright Paul F. A. , Walker David W. , Spencer Sarah J. , Sominsky Luba
Published: July 2021

The authors would like to correct a typographical error in their recently published paper [...]
Eating Speed, Physical Activity, and Cardiorespiratory Fitness Are Independent Predictors of Metabolic Syndrome in Korean University Students
Authors: Kang Minjeong , Joo Mingyu , Hong Haeryun , Kang Hyunsik
Published: July 2021

Background: Little is known regarding the role of eating quickly, physical inactivity, and poor cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in assessing the onset of metabolic syndrome (Mets) in Korean young adults. Objectives: This study examined the association between the three risk factors and Mets in 1891 Korean university students (30% female) aged 18–29 years. Methods: Eating speed (slow vs. fast) and physical activity (active vs. inactive) were assessed with a standardized questionnaire. Maximal oxygen uptake as an indicator of CRF was assessed with graded exercise testing. Components of Mets were waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglycerides (TG), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC). Results: All the three exposures were positively associated with abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressures, elevated FBG, elevated TG, and decreased HDLC. Logistic regression analysis showed that the odds ratio (OR) of Mets was incremental in the order of physical inactivity (odds ratio, OR = 1.666; 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.024–2.708; p = 0.040), fast eating (OR = 1.687; 95% CI = 1.094–2.601; p = 0.018), and poor CRF (OR = 5.378; 95% CI = 3.475–8.325; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The current findings suggest that a multifaceted intervention targeting at promotion of physical activity and CRF in concert with healthy eating behaviors should be implemented as a preventive strategy against Mets in Korean university students.
Independent and Joint Impacts of Acid-Producing Diets and Depression on Physical Health among Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Tessou K. Daniel , Lemus Hector , Hsu Fang-Chi , Pierce John , Hong Suzi , Brown Lauren , Wu Tianying
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine the independent and joint associations of acid-producing diets and depressive symptoms with physical health among breast cancer survivors. We studied a cohort of 2944 early stage breast cancer survivors who provided dietary, physical health, demographic, and lifestyle information at baseline, year 1, and year 4. We assessed the intakes of acid-producing diets via two commonly used dietary acid load scores: potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP). Physical health was measured using the Rand 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), consisting of physical functioning, role limitation due to physical function, bodily pain, general health, and overall physical health subscales. Increased dietary acid load and depression were each independently and significantly associated with reduced physical health subscales and overall physical health. Further, dietary acid load and depression were jointly associated with worse physical health. For instance, depressed women with dietary acid load higher than median reported 2.75 times the risk (odds ratio = 2.75; 95% confidence interval: 2.18–3.47) of reduced physical function and 3.10 times the risk of poor physical health (odds ratio = 3.10; 95% confidence interval: 2.53–3.80) compared to non-depressed women with dietary acid load lower than median. Our results highlight the need of controlling acid-producing diets and the access of mental care for breast cancer survivors.
Assessment of the Methods Used to Develop Vitamin D and Calcium Recommendations—A Systematic Review of Bone Health Guidelines
Authors: Dai Zhaoli , McKenzie Joanne E. , McDonald Sally , Baram Liora , Page Matthew J. , Allman-Farinelli Margaret , Raubenheimer David , Bero Lisa A.
Published: July 2021

Background: There are numerous guidelines developed for bone health. Yet, it is unclear whether the differences in guideline development methods explain the variability in the recommendations for vitamin D and calcium intake. The objective of this systematic review was to collate and compare recommendations for vitamin D and calcium across bone health guidelines, assess the methods used to form the recommendations, and explore which methodological factors were associated with these guideline recommendations. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and other databases indexing guidelines to identify records in English between 2009 and 2019. Guidelines or policy statements on bone health or osteoporosis prevention for generally healthy adults aged ≥40 years were eligible for inclusion. Two reviewers independently extracted recommendations on daily vitamin D and calcium intake, supplement use, serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] level, and sunlight exposure; assessed guideline development methods against 25 recommended criteria in the World Health Organization (WHO) handbook for guideline development; and, identified types identified types of evidence underpinning the recommendations. Results: we included 47 eligible guidelines from 733 records: 74% of the guidelines provided vitamin D (200~600–4000 IU/day) and 70% provided calcium (600–1200 mg/day) recommendations, 96% and 88% recommended vitamin D and calcium supplements, respectively, and 70% recommended a specific 25(OH)D concentration. On average, each guideline met 10 (95% CI: 9–12) of the total of 25 methodological criteria for guideline development recommended by the WHO Handbook. There was uncertainty in the association between the methodological criteria and the proportion of guidelines that provided recommendations on daily vitamin D or calcium. Various types of evidence, including previous bone guidelines, nutrient reference reports, systematic reviews, observational studies, and perspectives/editorials were used to underpin the recommendations. Conclusions: There is considerable variability in vitamin D and calcium recommendations and in guideline development methods in bone health guidelines. Effort is required to strengthen the methodological rigor of guideline development and utilize the best available evidence to underpin nutrition recommendations in evidence-based guidelines on bone health.
Do Maternal Factors and Milk Expression Patterns Affect the Composition of Donor Human Milk?
Authors: Bzikowska-Jura Agnieszka , Machaj Natalia , Sobieraj Piotr , Barbarska Olga , Olędzka Gabriela , Wesolowska Aleksandra
Published: July 2021

A primary role of Human Milk Banks (HMBs) is to provide human milk (HM) for preterm infants and to support the mothers of these infants as they establish their own milk supply. A better understanding of the variation in the energy and macronutrients contents of donor human milk (DHM) potentiates targeted nutrition for preterm babies. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the variability of energy and macronutrients content in DHM and to investigate the impact of maternal factors and feeding practices on the nutritional value of DHM. The study involved 49 donors registered in the HMB in the Holy Family Hospital in Warsaw, Poland. Samples from each donor were pooled within a maximum of two weeks. The composition of DHM, including energy content, protein, fat, and carbohydrate concentrations, was analyzed using the Miris Human Milk Analyzer. The analyses were performed before the pasteurization process. The mean time of milk donation to HMB was 13.2 ± 6.0 weeks. There were no significant differences in energy and macronutrients contents of DHM in the beginning and at the end of milk donation to HMB, however, HM fat concentration was positively correlated with afternoon feedings (r = 0.289, p = 0.044). The method of feeding (breastfeeding vs. feeding only expressed milk) also did not impact the nutritional value of DHM. Future research for the DHM should include a further cross-sectional observational study with the collection of detailed donor information and characteristics of milk expression and feeding practices to further evaluate the pooling processes and the effect on DHM composition.
A Systematic Review of Bisphenol A from Dietary and Non-Dietary Sources during Pregnancy and Its Possible Connection with Fetal Growth Restriction: Investigating Its Potential Effects and the Window of Fetal Vulnerability
Authors: Vrachnis Nikolaos , Loukas Nikolaos , Vrachnis Dionysios , Antonakopoulos Nikolaos , Zygouris Dimitrios , Kοlialexi Aggeliki , Pergaliotis Vasilios , Iavazzo Christos , Mastorakos George , Iliodromiti Zoi
Published: July 2021

Bisphenol A (BPA), a ubiquitous endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC), is increasingly hypothesized to be a factor contributing to changes in fetal growth velocity. BPA exposure may be environmental, occupational, and/or dietary, with canned foods and plastic bottles contributing significantly. Our systematic review aims to evaluate the current literature and to investigate the role of BPA in abnormal fetal growth patterns. A search was conducted in the PubMed and Cochrane databases. A total of 25 articles met the eligibility criteria and were included in this systematic review. Eleven of them failed to show a clear relationship between BPA and abnormal fetal growth. The majority of the remaining studies (9/14) found an inverse association of BPA with indicators of fetal growth, whereas three studies suggested increased fetal growth, and two studies produced contradictory findings. Of note, both of the studies that collected a sample (amniotic fluid) directly reflecting BPA concentration in the fetus during the first half of pregnancy revealed an inverse association with birth weight. In conclusion, there is mounting evidence that combined exposure to BPA from dietary and non-dietary sources during pregnancy may contribute to abnormal fetal growth; a tendency towards fetal growth restriction was shown, especially when exposure occurs during the first half.
Relative Importance of Determinants of Changes in Eating Behavior during the Transition to Parenthood: Priorities for Future Research and Interventions
Authors: Versele Vickà , Debekker Phaedra , Stok F. Marijn , Aerenhouts Dirk , Clarys Peter , Deforche Benedicte , D’Hondt Eva , Devlieger Roland , Bogaerts Annick , Deliens Tom
Published: July 2021

Background: Healthy eating behavior throughout pregnancy and postpartum is important. This study aimed to investigate the perceived sex-specific importance of determinants of changes in eating behavior during pregnancy and postpartum. Methods: Fifty-four determinants were rated by first-time parents (n = 179) on their impact. Experts (n = 31) rated the determinants in terms of their modifiability, relationship strength, and population-level effect from which a “priority for research”-score was calculated. Results: During pregnancy, the three highest rated determinants by women were “health concerns”, “physiological changes”, and “fatigue”. Men perceived “health concerns”, “health consciousness”, and “influence of the pregnant partner” as important. Postpartum, the three highest rated determinants by women were “adaptation to rhythm of baby”, “baby becomes priority”, and “practical constraints because of the baby”. Men perceived “adaptation to rhythm of baby”, “fatigue”. and “(lack of) anticipation” as important. According to the experts, “professional influence”, “food knowledge”, and “home food availability” received high priority scores for both sexes and during both periods. Conclusions: Priority for research and interventions should go towards tailored family-based approaches focusing on food education in a broad sense taking into account aspects such as health consciousness, self-efficacy skills, and the social and home food environment while being supported by healthcare professionals.
A Milk-Fat Based Diet Increases Metastasis in the MMTV-PyMT Mouse Model of Breast Cancer
Authors: Velazquez Fabiola N. , Viscardi Valentina , Montemage Julia , Zhang Leiqing , Trocchia Carolena , Delamont Megan M. , Ahmad Rasheed , Hannun Yusuf A. , Obeid Lina M. , Snider Ashley J.
Published: July 2021

A high-fat diet (HFD) and obesity are risk factors for many diseases including breast cancer. This is particularly important with close to 40% of the current adult population being overweight or obese. Previous studies have implicated that Mediterranean diets (MDs) partially protect against breast cancer. However, to date, the links between diet and breast cancer progression are not well defined. Therefore, to begin to define and assess this, we used an isocaloric control diet (CD) and two HFDs enriched with either olive oil (OOBD, high in oleate, and unsaturated fatty acid in MDs) or a milk fat-based diet (MFBD, high in palmitate and myristate, saturated fatty acids in Western diets) in a mammary polyomavirus middle T antigen mouse model (MMTV-PyMT) of breast cancer. Our data demonstrate that neither MFBD or OOBD altered the growth of primary tumors in the MMTV-PyMT mice. The examination of lung metastases revealed that OOBD mice exhibited fewer surface nodules and smaller metastases when compared to MFBD and CD mice. These data suggest that different fatty acids found in different sources of HFDs may alter breast cancer metastasis.
Otolith δ18O Composition as a Tracer of Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares) Origin in the Indian Ocean
Authors: Artetxe-Arrate Iraide , Fraile Igaratza , Farley Jessica , Darnaude Audrey M. , Clear Naomi , Dettman David L. , Davies Campbell , Marsac Francis , Murua Hilario
Published: July 2021

Yellowfin tuna of the Indian Ocean is overfished, and a better understanding of the stock structure is needed to enable sustainable management. Here, otolith δ18O values of young-of-the-year fish from known nursery areas of the equatorial Indian Ocean (West, Central and East) were used to establish a reference isotopic signature to predict the origin of sub-adult and adult individuals. Sub-adult tuna otolith δ18O values from Reunion Island were similar to the West nursery signature, but otolith δ18O values of sub-adults from Pakistan were unlike any of the nurseries sampled. Therefore, δ18O values from the Pakistan area samples were considered an additional nursery source for predicting the origin of adult tuna, using a multinomial logistic regression classification method. The western equatorial area was the most productive nursery for three fishing grounds sampled, with a minor contribution of Pakistan-like origin fish. Contribution of Central or East nurseries to the adult population was negligible. One adult otolith was analysed by secondary ion mass spectrometry along the otolith growth transect and results were compared with an isoscape approach to infer lifetime movements. This study is an important first step towards understanding the spatial structure and connectivity of the species.