bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solid State Fermentation of Brewers’ Spent Grains for Improved Nutritional Profile Using Bacillus subtilis WX-17
Authors: Tan Yong Xing , Mok Wai Kit , Lee Jaslyn , Kim Jaejung , Chen Wei Ning
Published: June 2019

Brewers’ spent grains (BSG) are underutilized food waste materials produced in large quantities from the brewing industry. In this study, solid state fermentation of BSG using Bacillus subtilis WX-17 was carried out to improve the nutritional value of BSG. Fermenting BSG with the strain WX-17, isolated from commercial natto, significantly enhanced the nutritional content in BSG compared to unfermented BSG, as determined by the marked difference in the level of metabolites. In total, 35 metabolites showed significant difference, which could be categorized into amino acids, fatty acids, carbohydrates, and tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates. Pathway analysis revealed that glycolysis was upregulated, as indicated by the drop in the level of carbohydrate compounds. This shifted the metabolic flux particularly towards the amino acid pathway, leading to a 2-fold increase in the total amount of amino acid from 0.859 ± 0.05 to 1.894 ± 0.1 mg per g of BSG after fermentation. Also, the total amount of unsaturated fatty acid increased by 1.7 times and the total antioxidant quantity remarkably increased by 5.8 times after fermentation. This study demonstrates that novel fermentation processes can value-add food by-products, and valorized food waste could potentially be used for food-related applications. In addition, the study revealed the metabolic changes and mechanisms behind the microbial solid state fermentation of BSG.
Inequalities Pertaining Fractional Approach through Exponentially Convex Functions
Authors: Rashid Saima , Noor Muhammad Aslam , Noor Khalida Inayat
Published: June 2019

In this article, certain Hermite-Hadamard-type inequalities are proven for an exponentially-convex function via Riemann-Liouville fractional integrals that generalize Hermite-Hadamard-type inequalities. These results have some relationships with the Hermite-Hadamard-type inequalities and related inequalities via Riemann-Liouville fractional integrals.
Host-Associated Bacterial Succession during the Early Embryonic Stages and First Feeding in Farmed Gilthead Sea Bream (Sparus aurata)
Authors: Nikouli Eleni , Meziti Alexandra , Antonopoulou Efthimia , Mente Eleni , Kormas Konstantinos Ar.
Published: June 2019

One of the most widely reared fish in the Mediterranean Sea is Sparus aurata. The succession of S. aurata whole-body microbiota in fertilized eggs, five, 15, 21 and 71 days post hatch (dph) larvae and the contribution of the rearing water and the provided feed (rotifers, Artemia sp. and commercial diet) to the host’s microbiota was investigated by 454 pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA gene diversity. In total, 1917 bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were found in all samples. On average, between 93 ± 2.1 and 366 ± 9.2 bacterial OTUs per sample were found, with most of them belonging to Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Ten OTUs were shared between all S. aurata stages and were also detected in the rearing water or diet. The highest OTU richness occurred at the egg stage and the lowest at the yolk sac stage (5 dph). The rearing water and diet microbial communities contributed in S. aurata microbiota without overlaps in their microbial composition and structure. The commercial diet showed higher contribution to the S. aurata microbiota than the rearing water. After stage D71 the observed microbiota showed similarities with that of adult S. aurata as indicated by the increased number of OTUs associated with γ-Proteobacteria and Firmicutes.
Assessing the Penetrance of Dementia Services
Authors: Rozsa Michael , Flicker Leon
Published: June 2019

Introduction: This scoping review aims to identify studies that assess dementia case finding programs (such as memory clinics) on a population basis and specifically assess the impacts that these services have on the diagnosis and management of dementia within a specific population. Methods: We conducted a literature review using the PubMed database, Ovid search engine, and records identified from external sources. This review assessed studies that contained data on patients diagnosed with dementia within a set population, reviewed the impact of specialty services on the diagnosis and management of such patients, and evaluated how this compared to data estimates for that population catchment. Results: The literature review yielded 1106 unique studies, of which only five were determined to be relevant based on the inclusion criteria. There was considerable variation between the primary outcome measures of the five studies included, and a quantitative meta-analysis could not be performed. Discussion: There are currently limited data on the fraction of the total population of people with dementia that are diagnosed and managed by specialised dementia assessment services within a set population. Further studies investigating how these services impact the incidence and prevalence of dementia diagnosis and ongoing management are required.
The Power of Music: Enhancing Muscle Strength in Older People
Authors: van den Elzen Nadja , Daman Vera , Duijkers Merel , Otte Kim , Wijnhoven Esmée , Timmerman Hans , Olde Rikkert Marcel
Published: June 2019

Sarcopenia is a major problem occurring in the aging population. Based on previous research, music appears to have a positive influence on many aspects of life, including physical performance. This led to the question of whether listening to self-selected favorite music could improve peripheral muscle strength in older people. In this crossover study, community-dwelling people aged 65 and older were included. All participants performed handgrip strength measurements in three different circumstances: while listening to their favorite music, their most disliked music, and no music at all. As the primary outcome measurement, the within-person differences in maximum handgrip strength between the three music conditions were analyzed. A total of 153 participants (aged 73.0 ± 6 years) were included. Listening to favorite music resulted in an increase in maximum handgrip strength of +0.87 kgf (0.54–1.21, p < 0.001) compared to no music, and of +0.97 kgf (0.56–1.37, p < 0.001) compared to least favorite music. Thus, listening to favorite music has a positive effect on handgrip strength in older people. Apart from its implications for scientific grip strength measurements, this effect may be used as a fun and innocent stimulant in rehabilitation and workout classes with seniors, which could be further tested in a range of older people.
Pricing Basket Weather Derivatives on Rainfall and Temperature Processes
Authors: Dzupire Nelson Christopher , Ngare Philip , Odongo Leo
Published: June 2019

This paper follows an incomplete market pricing approach to analyze the evaluation of weather derivatives and the viability of a weather derivatives market in terms of hedging. A utility indifference method is developed for the specification of indifference prices for the seller and buyer of a basket of weather derivatives written on rainfall and temperature. The agent’s risk preference is described by an exponential utility function and the prices are derived by dynamic programming principles and corresponding Hamilton Jacobi-Bellman equations from the stochastic optimal control problems. It is found the indifference measure is equal to the physical measure as there is no correlation between the capital market and weather. The fair price of the derivative should be greater than the seller’s indifference price and less than the buyer’s indifference price for market viability and no arbitrage opportunities.
Predicting the Upcoming Services of Vacant Taxis near Fixed Locations Using Taxi Trajectories
Authors: Hu Chunchun , Thill Jean-Claude
Published: June 2019

Emerging on-line reservation services and special car services have greatly affected the development of the taxi industry. Surprisingly, taking a taxi is still a significant problem in many large cities. In this paper, we present an effective solution based on the Hidden Markov Model to predict the upcoming services of vacant taxis that appear at some fixed locations and at specific times. The model introduces a weighted confusion matrix and a modified Viterbi algorithm, combining the factors of time of day and traffic conditions. In our framework, the hotspot or hidden states extraction is implemented through kernel density estimation (KDE) and fuzzy partitioning of traffic zones is done via a Fuzzy C Means (FCM) algorithm. We implement the proposed model on a large-scale dataset of taxi trajectories in Beijing. In this use case, tests demonstrate the high accuracy of the modeling framework in predicting the upcoming services of vacant taxis. We further analyze the factors affecting the predictive accuracy via a prediction accuracy analysis and prediction location evaluation. The findings of this paper can provide intelligence for the improvement of taxi services, to increase the passenger capacity of taxis and also to improve the probability of passengers finding taxis.
The Absence of Endothelial Sodium Channel α (αENaC) Reduces Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Tarjus Antoine , González-Rivas Cecilia , Amador-Martínez Isabel , Bonnard Benjamin , López-Marure Rebeca , Jaisser Frédéric , Barrera-Chimal Jonatan
Published: June 2019

The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) has a key role in modulating endothelial cell stiffness and this in turn regulates nitric oxide (NO) synthesis. The physiological relevance of endothelial ENaC in pathological conditions where reduced NO bioavailability plays an essential role remains largely unexplored. Renal ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury is characterized by vasoconstriction and sustained decrease in renal perfusion that is partially explained by a reduction in NO bioavailability. Therefore, we aimed to explore if an endothelial ENaC deficiency has an impact on the severity of renal injury induced by IR. Male mice with a specific endothelial sodium channel α (αENaC) subunit gene inactivation in the endothelium (endo-αENaCKO) and control littermates were subjected to bilateral renal ischemia of 22 min and were studied after 24 h of reperfusion. In control littermates, renal ischemia induced an increase in plasma creatinine and urea, augmented the kidney injury molecule-1 (Kim-1) and neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin-2 (NGAL) mRNA levels, and produced severe tubular injury. The absence of endothelial αENaC expression prevented renal tubular injury and renal dysfunction. Moreover, endo-αENaCKO mice recovered faster from renal hypoxia after the ischemia episode as compared to littermates. In human endothelial cells, pharmacological ENaC inhibition promoted endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) coupling and activation. Altogether, these data suggest an important role for endothelial αENaC in kidney IR injury through improving eNOS activation and kidney perfusion, thus, preventing ischemic injury.
Reduced Glutamine Synthetase Activity Alters the Fecundity of Female Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel)
Authors: Wei Dong , Zhang Meng-Yi , Zhang Ying-Xin , Zhang Su-Yun , Smagghe Guy , Wang Jin-Jun
Published: June 2019

Glutamine synthetase (GS) is a key enzyme in glutamine synthesis and is associated with multiple physiological processes in insects, such as embryonic development, heat shock response, and fecundity regulation. However, little is known about the influence of GS on female fecundity in the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis. Based on the cloning of BdGSs, mitochondrial BdGSm and cytoplasmic BdGSc, we determined their expressions in the tissues of adult B. dorsalis. BdGSm was highly expressed in the fat body, while BdGSc was highly expressed in the head and midgut. Gene silencing by RNA interference against two BdGSs isoforms suppressed target gene expression at the transcriptional level, leading to a reduced ovarian size and lower egg production. The specific inhibitor L-methionine S-sulfoximine suppressed enzyme activity, but only the gene expression of BdGSm was suppressed. A similar phenotype of delayed ovarian development occurred in the inhibitor bioassay. Significantly lower expression of vitellogenin and vitellogenin receptor was observed when GS enzyme activity was suppressed. These data illustrate the effects of two GS genes on adult fecundity by regulating vitellogenin synthesis in different ways.
The Thermoregulatory Behavior of Nectar Foraging Polistine Wasps (Polistes dominula and Polistes gallicus) in Different Climate Conditions
Authors: Kovac Helmut , Käfer Helmut , Stabentheiner Anton
Published: June 2019

Polistine wasps collect nectar for their energetic demand and for the provision of the brood. They are mainly ectothermic during different behavioral tasks. We investigated the body temperature of two species living in differing habitats and climate regions, in order to reveal the environmental influence on their thermoregulatory behavior. The species were Polistes dominula in the temperate climate of Central Europe, and Polistes gallicus in the warm Mediterranean climate of Southern Europe. The wasp’s body temperature was measured during foraging on lovage (Levisticum officinale) and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) by infrared thermography in the entire ambient temperature range they are usually exposed to (Ta ~ 20–40 °C). The temperature of all body parts increased nearly linearly with ambient temperature, with the thorax as the warmest part. To achieve optimal foraging temperatures, they preferably use solar radiation. An “operative temperature model” enabled the evaluation of the endothermic effort. Polistes dominula foraging on lovage exhibited no endothermic activity. However, while foraging on fennel they had a weak and almost constant endothermic performance of about 1 °C. Polistes gallicus, by contrast, exhibited mostly no or only minor endothermy during foraging. Both wasps avoid a high energetic effort and this way reduce their foraging costs.
Comparison of Glucose Tolerance between Kidney Transplant Recipients and Healthy Controls
Authors: Shimada Hisao , Uchida Junji , Nishide Shunji , Kabei Kazuya , Kosoku Akihiro , Maeda Keiko , Iwai Tomoaki , Naganuma Toshihide , Takemoto Yoshiaki , Nakatani Tatsuya
Published: June 2019

Post-transplant hyperglycemia and new-onset diabetes mellitus after transplantation (NODAT) are common and important metabolic complications. Decreased insulin secretion and increased insulin resistance are important to the pathophysiologic mechanism behind NODAT. However, the progression of glucose intolerance diagnosed late after kidney transplantation remains clearly unknown. Enrolled in this study were 94 kidney transplant recipients and 134 kidney transplant donors, as the healthy controls, who were treated at our institution. The 75 g-oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed in the recipients, and the healthy controls received an OGTT before donor nephrectomy. We assessed the prevalence of glucose intolerance including impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance, as well as insulin secretion and insulin resistance using the homeostasis model assessment, and compared the results between the two groups. Multivariate analysis after adjustment for age, gender, body mass index, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and systolic blood pressure showed that the prevalence of glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, insulin secretion, and 2 h plasma glucose levels were significantly higher in the kidney transplant recipients compared to the healthy controls. Elevation of insulin secretion in kidney transplant recipients may be compensatory for increase of insulin resistance. Impaired compensatory pancreas β cell function may lead to glucose intolerance and NODAT in the future.
6R/S-deutero-α-d-mannopyranoside 1-phosphate
Authors: Ahmadipour Sanaz , Miller Gavin J.
Published: June 2019

6R/S-deutero-α-d-mannopyranoside 1-phosphate was synthesised from a C6 aldehydic mannose thioglycoside donor in four steps. Using NaBD4 as the reductant, isotopic enrichment at C6 was achieved and the resultant C6-deuterated material was converted through to the glycosyl 1-phosphate using a protection/glycosylation/deprotection sequence. The product was fully characterised by 1H, 13C, 31P and 2D NMR, alongside MS analysis.
Footstep Energy Harvesting with the Magnetostrictive Fiber Integrated Shoes
Authors: Kurita Hiroki , Katabira Kenichi , Yoshida Yu , Narita Fumio
Published: June 2019

Wearable energy harvesting devices attract attention as the devices provide electrical power without inhibiting user mobility and independence. While the piezoelectric materials integrated shoes have been considered as wearable energy harvesting devices for a long time, they can lose their energy harvesting performance after being used several times due to their brittleness. In this study, we focused on Fe–Co magnetostrictive materials and fabricated Fe–Co magnetostrictive fiber integrated shoes. We revealed that Fe–Co magnetostrictive fiber integrated shoes are capable of generating 1.2 µJ from 1000 steps of usual walking by the Villari (inverse magnetostrictive) effect. It seems that the output energy is dependent on user habit on ambulation, not on their weight. From both a mechanical and functional point of view, Fe–Co magnetostrictive fiber integrated shoes demonstrated stable energy harvesting performance after being used many times. It is likely that Fe–Co magnetostrictive fiber integrated shoes are available as sustainable and wearable energy harvesting devices.
Numerical Study of Angle-Insensitive and Tunable Dual-Band THz Absorber Using Periodic Cross-Shaped Graphene Arrays
Authors: Sang Tian , Gao Jian , Wang La , Qi Honglong , Yin Xin , Wang Yueke
Published: June 2019

A dual-band terahertz (THz) absorber using the periodic cross-shaped graphene arrays is presented. It is shown that the dual-band light absorption enhancement of graphene results from the edge graphene plasmon (EGP) resonance, and the locations of the two absorption peaks can be precisely estimated by using the Fabry-Pérot (F-P) cavity model. Slight residual reflection remains at the two absorption peaks because the input impedance of the cross-arm cannot be perfectly matched with the free space impedance. In addition, the locations of the two absorption bands can be simultaneously tuned by changing the Fermi level of graphene, and they can be independently tuned by changing the width or the length of the cross-arm of graphene. Excellent angle-insensitivity dual-band absorption enhancement of graphene can be maintained for both the transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) polarizations.
Catalytic Effect of Photoluminescent Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Formed in the Presence of Quaternary Ammonium Salts
Authors: Tăbăcaru Aurel , Dinică Rodica Mihaela , Cudălbeanu Mihaela , Nicolescu Cristina Mihaela , Bumbac Marius
Published: June 2019

The comparative effect of two quaternary ammonium salts from 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethane (PyQAs), namely N,N′-diphenacyl-1,2-bis(4-pyridinium)ethane dibromide (PyQAs1) and N,N′-di(p-methoxyphenacyl)-1,2-bis(4-pyridinium)ethane dibromide (PyQAs2), upon the size and photoluminescence of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) was investigated. The formation of ZnO NPs took place in the presence of variable amounts of the two PyQAs species (1, 2.5, and 5%), according to the chemical precipitation of zinc(II) acetate with potassium hydroxide in ethanol under reflux. The obtained ZnO NPs were structurally characterized by means of X-ray powder diffraction, infrared, and Raman spectroscopy. The fluorescence of all supernatant solutions, observed under ultraviolet light, determined us to make an investigation of the solutions by means of liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-MS-ESI) in order to elucidate the identity of the newly formed fluorescent species. Such an occurrence thus allowed the invocation of the catalytic effect of zinc(II) ions towards the organic transformation of both nonfluorescent PyQAs surfactants into new fluorescent organic species.
Lactoferrin-Hydroxyapatite Containing Spongy-Like Hydrogels for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Bastos Ana R. , da Silva Lucília P. , Maia F. Raquel , Pina Sandra , Rodrigues Tânia , Sousa Filipa , Oliveira Joaquim M. , Cornish Jillian , Correlo Vitor M. , Reis Rui L.
Published: June 2019

The development of bioactive and cell-responsive materials has fastened the field of bone tissue engineering. Gellan gum (GG) spongy-like hydrogels present high attractive properties for the tissue engineering field, especially due to their wide microarchitecture and tunable mechanical properties, as well as their ability to entrap the responsive cells. Lactoferrin (Lf) and Hydroxyapatite (HAp) are bioactive factors that are known to potentiate faster bone regeneration. Thus, we developed an advanced three-dimensional (3D) biomaterial by integrating these bioactive factors within GG spongy-like hydrogels. Lf-HAp spongy-like hydrogels were characterized in terms of microstructure, water uptake, degradation, and concomitant release of Lf along the time. Human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) were seeded and the capacity of these materials to support hASCs in culture for 21 days was assessed. Lf addition within GG spongy-like hydrogels did not change the main features of GG spongy-like hydrogels in terms of porosity, pore size, degradation, and water uptake commitment. Nevertheless, HAp addition promoted an increase of the pore wall thickness (from ~13 to 28 µm) and a decrease on porosity (from ~87% to 64%) and mean pore size (from ~12 to 20 µm), as well as on the degradability and water retention capabilities. A sustained release of Lf was observed for all the formulations up to 30 days. Cell viability assays showed that hASCs were viable during the culture period regarding cell-laden spongy-like hydrogels. Altogether, we demonstrate that GG spongy-like hydrogels containing HAp and Lf in high concentrations gathered favorable 3D bone-like microenvironment with an increased hASCs viability with the presented results.
Effect of Ni/Si Mass Ratio and Thermomechanical Treatment on the Microstructure and Properties of Cu-Ni-Si Alloys
Authors: Li Jiang , Huang Guojie , Mi Xujun , Peng Lijun , Xie Haofeng , Kang Yonglin
Published: June 2019

The effect of the Ni/Si mass ratio and combined thermomechanical treatment on the microstructure and properties of ternary Cu-Ni-Si alloys is discussed systematically. The Cu-Ni-Si alloy with a Ni/Si mass ratio of 4–5 showed good comprehensive properties. Precipitates with disc-like shapes were confirmed as the Ni2Si phase with orthorhombic structure through transmission electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and 3D atom probe characterization. After the appropriate thermomechanical treatment, the studied alloy with a Ni/Si mass ratio of 4.2 exhibited excellent mechanical properties: a hardness of 290 HV, tensile strength of 855 MPa, yield strength of 782 MPa, and elongation of 4.5%. Compared with other approaches, the thermomechanical treatment increased the hardness and strength without sacrificing electrical conductivity. Theoretical calculations indicated that the high strength was primarily attributed to the Orowan precipitation strengthening and secondarily ascribed to the work hardening, which were highly consistent with the experimental results. The appropriate Ni/Si mass ratio with a low content of Ni and Si atoms shows high strength and excellent electrical conductivity through combined thermomechanical treatment. This work provides a guideline for the design and preparation of multicomponent Cu-Ni-Si-X alloys with ultrahigh strength and excellent electrical conductivity.
Undergraduate Students’ Solutions of Modeling Problems in Algorithmic Graph Theory
Authors: Medová Janka , Páleníková Kitti , Rybanský Ľubomír , Naštická Zuzana
Published: June 2019

Graphs can be considered as useful mathematical models. Graph algorithms are a common part of undergraduate courses in discrete mathematics. Even though they have been successfully implemented in secondary curricula, little research has been dedicated to the analysis of students’ work. Within a discrete mathematics course for university students, several graph algorithms were introduced via their applications. At the end of the course, the students took a test focused, inter alia, on applications of the algorithms. The mistakes that occurred in 127 students’ solutions of three problems (the Chinese postman problem, the shortest path problem, and the minimum spanning tree problem) were categorized and compared. Surprisingly, no mistakes were identified in the mathematization of situations or in the interpretation of results with respect to the wording of the problem. The categories of errors varied regardless of the problem types. Hierarchical cluster analysis grouped together the students’ solutions for the Chinese postman problem and the minimum spanning tree problem. By means of nonparametric item response theory analysis, the Chinese postman problem was identified as the most problematic for students. Possible sources of this difficulty are discussed in more detail herein.
Extended Mizoguchi-Takahashi Type Fixed Point Theorems and Their Application
Authors: Mohammadi Babak , Parvaneh Vahid , Aydi Hassen , Işık Hüseyin
Published: June 2019

The aim of this work is to extend the Mizoguchi-Takahashi fixed point result motivated by the approach of Wardowski (2012) and provide some related fixed point results in (ordered) metric spaces. An example is given to support the main results. Moreover, we provide an application on nonlinear differential equations.
Astaxanthin from Shrimp Cephalothorax Stimulates the Immune Response by Enhancing IFN-γ, IL-10, and IL-2 Secretion in Splenocytes of Helicobacter Pylori-Infected Mice
Authors: Davinelli Sergio , Melvang Heidi Mikkelsen , Andersen Leif Percival , Scapagnini Giovanni , Nielsen Michael Engelbrecht
Published: June 2019

Infection with Helicobacter pylori is a critical cause of gastrointestinal diseases. A crucial host response associated with H. pylori infection includes gastric inflammation, which is characterized by a sustained recruitment of T-helper (Th) cells to the site of infection and distinct patterns of cytokine production. Adequate nutritional status, especially frequent consumption of dietary antioxidants, appears to protect against infection with H. pylori. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether astaxanthin (AXT) from shrimp cephalothorax may modulate cytokine release of splenocytes in H. pylori-infected mice (n = 60). Six- to eight-week-old female mice were divided into three groups (n = 20 per group) to receive a daily oral dose of 10 or 40 mg of AXT for six weeks. After six weeks, a trend toward interferon gamma (IFN-γ) upregulation was found (40 mg; p < 0.05) and a significant dose-dependent increase of interleukin 2 (IL-2) and IL-10 (both p < 0.05) was observed. These results suggest that AXT induces higher levels of IL-2 and a shift to a balanced Th1/Th2 response by increasing IFN-γ and augmenting IL-10. We concluded that AXT may influence the pattern of cytokines during H. pylori infection.
An Immunohistochemical Study of Gastric Mucosa and Critical Review Indicate That the Subepithelial Telocytes Are Prelymphatic Endothelial Cells
Authors: Toader Oana D. , Rusu Mugurel C. , Mogoantă Laurenţiu , Hostiuc Sorin , Jianu Adelina Maria , Ilie Adrian Cosmin
Published: June 2019

Background and Objectives: There are only a few studies regarding gut subepithelial telocytes (TCs). The telopodes, namely peculiar TCs’ prolongations described on two-dimensional cuts, are not enough to differentiate this specific cell type. Subepithelial TCs were associated with the intestinal stem niche but a proper differential diagnosis with lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) was not performed. In this study, we will also critically review studies suggesting that distinctive TCs could be positioned within the lamina propria. Materials and Methods: We performed an immunohistochemical study of human gastric mucosa to test the expression of D2-40, the lymphatic marker, as well as that of CD31, CD34, CD44, CD117/c-kit, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and vimentin in the gastric subepithelial niche. Results: The results support the poorly investigated anatomy of intramural gastric lymphatics, with circumferential collectors located on both sides of the muscularis mucosae (mucosal and then submucosal) and myenteric collectors in the muscularis propria. We also found superficial epithelial prelymphatic channels bordered by D2-40+ but CD31–TC-like cells. Deep epithelial lymphatic collectors drain in collectors within the lamina propria. Blood endothelial cells expressed CD31, CD34, CD44, and vimentin. Conclusions: Therefore, the positive diagnosis of TC for subepithelial CD34+ cells should be regarded with caution, as they could also be artefacts, resulting from the two-dimensional examination of three dimensional structures, or as LECs. Lymphatic markers should be routinely used to discriminate TCs from LECs.
Re-Melting Nb–Si-Based Ultrahigh-Temperature Alloys in Ceramic Mold Shells
Authors: Wang Yin , Guo Xiping
Published: June 2019

In furnaces with different heating elements, Nb–Si based ultrahigh-temperature alloy rods were re-melted in pure yttria mold shells and zirconia face-coat mold shells at 1850 °C for 30 min. The results evidenced that in the furnace with a tungsten heating element, the microstructure of the re-melted alloy became coarser, and the composition varied depending on the type of mold shell. Although the interface reaction layer between the re-melted alloy and the zirconia face-coat mold shell was much thicker, the deformability of the mold shell and the sand burning phenomenon of the alloy inside it were improved and ameliorated, respectively. However, after being re-melted in the furnace with a graphite heating element, the misrun phenomenon occurred in both specimens. Both re-melted alloys inside the mold shells were divided by a gap into an internal and an external part, with totally different microstructures and compositions. No reaction layer emerged at the interface between the re-melted alloy and the mold shells. Instead, infiltration zones arose in the mold shells adjacent to the interface.
Tuberculosis Progression Does Not Necessarily Equate with a Failure of Immune Control
Authors: Russell David G.
Published: June 2019

Despite the obvious impact of tuberculosis on global health, there is currently no effective vaccine and there is increasing resistance against established front-line drug regiments. Our current understanding of disease progression in tuberculosis is shaped by data collected from the failure of immune control. We feel that this represents a biased approach, which constrains our capacity to understand both disease control and progression. In this opinion piece, we re-examine these questions in the context of recently published data from fluorescent bacterial reporter strains and the analysis of the different macrophage lineages present at sites of infection. We believe that this analysis provides alternative models for disease progression, which are not addressed through current vaccine or immune-therapeutic strategies.
Geochemical Alteration and Mineralogy of Coals under the Influence of Fault Motion: A Case Study of Qi’nan Colliery, China
Authors: Liu Hewu , Jiang Bo
Published: June 2019

Geochemical characteristics of rocks in fault zones have been extensively studied, while there are limited studies on coal occurring in fault zones of underground coal mine. In this study, five coal samples were carefully collected from a reverse fault zone in Qi’nan colliery. Systematical detection methods were employed to analyze the different chemical and physical characteristics of fault-related coal samples. Through comparative analysis, the following insights are obtained. Three subdivided fault zones were classified according to the deformation characteristics of coal samples. Frictional heat and strong ductile deformation generated by fault motion led to the dissociation of phenol and carboxyl groups in coal molecules, which sharply decreased the concentrations of elements Co and Mo bound to these functional groups in zone I. The modified pore-cleat system in zone I with higher pore volume and lower permeability allowed solutions containing enriched trace elements to migrate through zone I locally. Concentrations of HREE, MREE and related elements associated with the invasive solutions showed significant positive anomalies in zone I. Precipitation and smearing of clay minerals in zone I led to poorer connectivity. Disruption and delamination of laminar clay minerals by strong compression-shear stress significantly increased the adsorption sites for related elements, especially the HREE and MREE. Nano-scale clay minerals resulting from stress-induced scaly exfoliation also enhanced the retention capability of REE in zone I.
Nanocomposite Synthesis of Nanodiamond and Molybdenum Disulfide
Authors: Kim Youngjun , Lee Dukhee , Kim Soo , Kang Eunah , Kim Chang
Published: June 2019

A chemically conjugated nanodiamond (ND)/MoS2 nanocomposite was synthesized with amine-functionalized MoS2 and acyl chloride-coordinated ND. The chemical structure and morphology of the nanocomposite were characterized to examine the dispersion of MoS2 on the ND platform. The results revealed that the degree of dispersion was enhanced with increasing ratio of MoS2 nanosheets to ND. Moreover, the nanosheets consisted of several molecular interlayers that were well-dispersed on the ND platform, thereby forming a nanophase. The efficient electrocapacity of the ND/MoS2 nanocomposite was considerably greater than that of the MoS2 electrode alone. Furthermore, the nanophase distribution of MoS2 on ND with a graphitic shell provided a large surface area and reduced the diffusion distance of ions and electrons. Therefore, the nanophase electrode showed higher electrochemical capacitance than that of the MoS2 electrode alone.
Chitlac-Coated Thermosets Enhance Osteogenesis and Angiogenesis in a Co-culture of Dental Pulp Stem Cells and Endothelial Cells
Authors: Rapino Monica , Di Valerio Valentina , Zara Susi , Gallorini Marialucia , Marconi Guya D. , Sancilio Silvia , Marsich Eleonora , Ghinassi Barbara , di Giacomo Viviana , Cataldi Amelia
Published: June 2019

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) represent a population of stem cells which could be useful in oral and maxillofacial reconstruction. They are part of the periendothelial niche, where their crosstalk with endothelial cells is crucial in the cellular response to biomaterials used for dental restorations. DPSCs and the endothelial cell line EA.hy926 were co-cultured in the presence of Chitlac-coated thermosets in culture conditions inducing, in turn, osteogenic or angiogenic differentiation. Cell proliferation was evaluated by 3‒[4,5‒dimethyl‒thiazol‒2‒yl‒]‒2,5‒diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. DPSC differentiation was assessed by measuring Alkaline Phosphtase (ALP) activity and Alizarin Red S staining, while the formation of new vessels was monitored by optical microscopy. The IL-6 and PGE2 production was evaluated as well. When cultured together, the proliferation is increased, as is the DPSC osteogenic differentiation and EA.hy926 vessel formation. The presence of thermosets appears either not to disturb the system balance or even to improve the osteogenic and angiogenic differentiation. Chitlac-coated thermosets confirm their biocompatibility in the present co-culture model, being capable of improving the differentiation of both cell types. Furthermore, the assessed co-culture appears to be a useful tool to investigate cell response toward newly synthesized or commercially available biomaterials, as well as to evaluate their engraftment potential in restorative dentistry.
Effect of Docosahexaenoic Acid on Ca2+ Signaling Pathways in Cerulein-Treated Pancreatic Acinar Cells, Determined by RNA-Sequencing Analysis
Authors: Kim Suhn Hyung , Park Yeeun , Lim Joo Weon , Kim Hyeyoung
Published: June 2019

Intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis is commonly disrupted in acute pancreatitis. Sustained Ca2+ release from internal stores in pancreatic acinar cells (PACs), mediated by inositol triphosphate receptor (IP3R) and the ryanodine receptor (RyR), plays a key role in the initiation and propagation of acute pancreatitis. Pancreatitis induced by cerulein, an analogue of cholecystokinin, causes premature activation of digestive enzymes and enhanced accumulation of cytokines and Ca2+ in the pancreas and, as such, it is a good model of acute pancreatitis. High concentrations of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) inhibit inflammatory signaling pathways and cytokine expression in PACs treated with cerulein. In the present study, we determined the effect of DHA on key regulators of Ca2+ signaling in cerulein-treated pancreatic acinar AR42 J cells. The results of RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis showed that cerulein up-regulates the expression of IP3R1 and RyR2 genes, and that pretreatment with DHA blocks these effects. The results of real-time PCR confirmed that DHA inhibits cerulein-induced IP3R1 and RyR2 gene expression, and demonstrated that DHA pre-treatment decreases the expression of the Relb gene, which encodes a component of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) transcriptional activator complex, and the c-fos gene, which encodes a component of activator protein-1 (AP-1) transcriptional activator complex. Taken together, DHA inhibits mRNA expression of IP3R1, RyR2, Relb, and c-fos, which is related to Ca2+ network in cerulein-stimulated PACs.
Behavioral Determinants of Objectively Assessed Diet Quality in Obese Pregnancy
Authors: Most Jasper , Rebello Candida J. , Altazan Abby D. , Martin Corby K. , St Amant Marshall , Redman Leanne M.
Published: June 2019

Interventions to promote healthy pregnancy in women with obesity by improving diet quality have been widely unsuccessful. We hypothesized that diet quality is determined by eating behaviors, but evidence in women with obesity is lacking. We evaluated diet quality and eating behavior in 56 women with obesity (mean ± SEM, 36.7 ± 0.7 kg/m2, 46% White, 50% nulliparous) early in pregnancy (14.9 ± 0.1 weeks). Diet quality was objectively assessed with food photography over six days and defined by Healthy Eating Index. Eating behaviors were assessed by validated questionnaires. Women reported consuming diets high in fat (38 ± 1% of energy) and the HEI was considered “poor” on average (46.7 ± 1.3), and for 71% of women. Diet quality was independently associated with education level (p = 0.01), food cravings (p < 0.01), and awareness towards eating (p = 0.01). Cravings for sweets and fast foods were positively correlated with respective intakes of these foods (p < 0.01 and p = 0.04, respectively), whereas cravings for fruits and vegetables did not relate to diet intake. We provide evidence of the determinants of poor diet quality in pregnant women with obesity. Based on this observational study, strategies to improve diet quality and pregnancy outcomes are to satisfy cravings for healthy snacks and foods, and to promote awareness towards eating behaviors.
Confirmed Hypoallergenicity of a Novel Whey-Based Extensively Hydrolyzed Infant Formula Containing Two Human Milk Oligosaccharides
Authors: Nowak-Wegrzyn Anna , Czerkies Laura , Reyes Kemuel , Collins Barbara , Heine Ralf G.
Published: June 2019

Background: We sought to determine whether an extensively hydrolyzed formula (EHF) supplemented with two human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) was tolerated by infants with cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA). Methods: A whey-based EHF (Test formula) containing 2′fucosyl-lactose (2′FL) and lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT) was assessed for clinical hypoallergenicity and safety. The Control formula was a currently marketed EHF without HMO. Children with CMPA, aged 2 months to 4 years, were assessed by double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges (DBPCFC) to both formulas, in randomized order. If both DBPCFC were negative, subjects participated in a one-week, open food challenge (OFC) with the Test formula. Symptoms and adverse events were recorded. Hypoallergenicity was accepted if at least 90% (with 95% confidence intervals) of subjects tolerated the Test formula. Results: Of the 82 children with CMPA that were screened, 67 (intention-to-treat [ITT] cohort—mean age 24.5 ± 13.6 months; range 2–57; 45 [67.2%] male) were randomized to receive either the Test or the Control formula during the first DBPCFC. Of these, 64 children completed at least one DBPCFC (modified intention-to-treat [mITT] cohort). Three children were excluded due to protocol deviations (per protocol [PP] cohort; n = 61). There was one allergic reaction to the Test, and one to the Control formula. On the mITT analysis, 63 out of 64 (98.4%; 95% CI lower bound 92.8%), and on the PP analysis 60 out of 61 (98.4%; 95% CI lower bound 92.5%) participants tolerated the Test formula, confirming hypoallergenicity. Conclusion: The whey-based EHF supplemented with 2′FL and LNnT met the clinical hypoallergenicity criteria and can be recommended for the management of CMPA in infants and young children.
Nutrient and Mineral Profile of Chosen Fresh and Smoked Fish
Authors: Kiczorowska Bożena , Samolińska Wioletta , Grela Eugeniusz R. , Bik-Małodzińska Marta
Published: June 2019

In the present study, were determined the basic nutrients (dry matter, crude ash, crude protein, ether extract, and energy) and mineral elements content in chosen species of raw and smoked freshwater and sea fish. The content of dry matter, and basic nutrients and Na+, K+, Ca+2, Mg+2, P+2, Zn+2, and Cu+2 in the fish samples was determined. The dietary intake of several macro- and microconstituents per one serving (150 g fresh or smoked fish) was calculated. The fresh fish contained on average 220.2 to 283.7 g·kg−1 of dry matter, 12.4 to 10.7 g·kg−1 of crude ash, 176.2 to 173.5 g·kg−1 of crude protein, 32.6 to 78.6 g·kg−1 of ether extract, and 104.6 to 119.1 kcal (freshwater and sea fish, respectively). Thermal treatment reduces the water and fat content in fish meat. Reduction of the K, Ca, Mg, P, Zn, and Cu levels was observed most frequently. The one serving of fish covers approximately 23% and 12% of the recommended dietary amount of K, 7.5–5.0% of Ca, ~12% of Mg, 6.8 to 12.5% of Zn, and about covered 6.7% of Cu. The smoking process increased the concentration of some basic nutrients and reduced the fat and mineral content. Whitefish, trout, halibut, mackerel, and herring had the highest levels of the analyzed minerals.
Selenium and Health: An Update on the Situation in the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: Ibrahim Sohayla A. Z. , Kerkadi Abdelhamid , Agouni Abdelali
Published: June 2019

Selenium (Se) is an important trace element that should be present in the diet of all age groups to provide an adequate intake. Se is incorporated in 25 known selenoproteins, which mediate the biological effects of Se including, immune response regulation, maintenance of thyroid function, antioxidant defense, and anti-inflammatory actions. A balanced intake of Se is critical to achieve health benefits because depending on its status, Se has been found to play physiological roles or contribute to the pathophysiology of various diseases including, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disorders. Se status and intake are very important to be known for a specific population as the levels of Se are highly variable among different populations and regions. In the Middle East and North African (MENA) region, very little is known about the status of Se. Studies available show that Se status is widely variable with some countries being deficient, some over sufficient, and some sufficient. This variability was apparent even within the same country between regions. In this review, we summarized the key roles of Se in health and disease and discussed the available data on Se status and intake among countries of the MENA region.
Fruit, Vegetable, and Fibre Intake among Finnish Preschoolers in Relation to Preschool-Level Facilitators and Barriers to Healthy Nutrition
Authors: Lehto Reetta , Ray Carola , Korkalo Liisa , Vepsäläinen Henna , Nissinen Kaija , Koivusilta Leena , Roos Eva , Erkkola Maijaliisa
Published: June 2019

Preschool is a major factor affecting food consumption among young children in Finland, given that most preschoolers eat three meals a day in that setting. Thus, it is important to recognise the determinants of dietary intake at preschool. The aim of this study was to examine food-related factors at the preschool and manager level, and their association with the dietary intake of children in childcare. The study was a part of the cross-sectional DAGIS survey conducted in 2015 to 2016 in Finland. The managers of 58 preschools filled in a questionnaire related to food and nutrition at their preschools. Preschool personnel kept food records for the children (n = 585) on two preschool days. Multilevel linear and logistic regression analyses were conducted with age, gender, and municipality as covariates, preschool-level factors as independent variables, and children’s vegetable (g/day) and fruit (yes vs. no) consumption and fibre intake (g/MJ) as outcome variables. Having many written food policies in the preschool was associated with a higher intake of vegetables (p = 0.01) and fibre (p = 0.03) among the children. Having at least two out of three cooperation-related challenges with the catering service was associated with a higher intake of fibre (p = 0.03) and lower odds of eating fruit (p = 0.01). Factors that are relatively distal from meal situations may have an effect, and should be taken into account in the promotion of healthy eating at preschool, but more studies are needed.
Amino Acids and Hypertension in Adults
Authors: Poggiogalle Eleonora , Fontana Mario , Giusti Anna Maria , Pinto Alessandro , Iannucci Gino , Lenzi Andrea , Donini Lorenzo Maria
Published: June 2019

Accumulating evidence suggests a potential role of dietary protein among nutritional factors interfering with the regulation of blood pressure. Dietary protein source (plant versus animal protein), and especially, protein composition in terms of amino acids has been postulated to interfere with mechanisms underlying the development of hypertension. Recently, mounting interest has been directed at amino acids in hypertension focusing on habitual dietary intake and their circulating levels regardless of single amino acid dietary supplementation. The aim of the present review was to summarize epidemiological evidence concerning the connection between amino acids and hypertension. Due to the large variability in methodologies used for assessing amino acid levels and heterogeneity in the results obtained, it was not possible to draw robust conclusions. Indeed, some classes of amino acids or individual amino acids showed non-causative association with blood pressure as well as the incidence of hypertension, but the evidence was far from being conclusive. Further research should be prompted for a thorough understanding of amino acid effects and synergistic actions of different amino acid classes on blood pressure regulation.