bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internalization of Polymeric Bacterial Peptidoglycan Occurs through Either Actin or Dynamin Dependent Pathways
Authors: Popescu Narcis I. , Cochran Jackie , Duggan Elizabeth , Kluza Jędrzej , Silasi Robert , Coggeshall Kenneth Mark
Published: March 2022

Peptidoglycan (PGN), a polymeric glycan macromolecule, is a major constituent of the bacterial cell wall and a conserved pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) that triggers immune responses through cytosolic sensors. Immune cells encounter both PGN polymers and hydrolyzed muropeptides during infections, and primary human innate immune cells respond better to polymeric PGN than the minimal bioactive subunit muramyl dipeptide (MDP). While MDP is internalized through macropinocytosis and/or clathrin-mediated endocytosis, the internalization of particulate polymeric PGN is unresolved. We show here that PGN macromolecules isolated from Bacillus anthracis display a broad range of sizes, making them amenable for multiple internalization pathways. Pharmacologic inhibition indicates that PGN primarily, but not exclusively, is internalized by actin-dependent endocytosis. An alternate clathrin-independent but dynamin dependent pathway supports 20–30% of PGN uptake. In primary monocytes, this alternate pathway does not require activities of RhoA, Cdc42 or Arf6 small GTPases. Selective inhibition of PGN uptake shows that phagolysosomal trafficking, processing and downstream immune responses are drastically affected by actin depolymerization, while dynamin inhibition has a smaller effect. Overall, we show that polymeric PGN internalization occurs through two endocytic pathways with distinct potentials to trigger immune responses.
Transfer of Human Microbiome to Drosophila Gut Model
Authors: Ji Dongxu , Sun Hao , Yang Weichao , Gao Mingfu , Xu Hui
Published: March 2022

Laboratory animals with human microbiome have increasingly been used to study the role of bacteria and host interaction. Drosophila melanogaster, as a model of microbiota-host interaction with high reproductive efficiency and high availability, has always been lacking studies of interaction with human gut microbiome. In this study, we attempted to use antibiotic therapy and human fecal exposure strategy to transfer the human microbiome to the drosophila. The method includes depleting the original intestinal bacteria using a broad-spectrum antibiotic and then introducing human microorganisms by a diet supplemented with donor’s fecal samples. The sequencing results showed that 80–87.5% of the OTUs (Operational Taxonomic Units) from donor feces were adopted by the recipient drosophila following 30 days of observation. In comparison to females, the male recipient drosophila inherited more microbiota from the donor feces and had significantly increased lifespan as well as improved vertical climbing ability. Furthermore, distinctly differential expression patterns for age and insulin-like signaling-related genes were obtained for the male vs. female recipients. Only the male drosophila offspring acquired the characteristics of the donor fecal microbiota.
Variable Legionella Response to Building Occupancy Patterns and Precautionary Flushing
Authors: Rhoads William J. , Sindelar Meril , Margot Céline , Graf Nadine , Hammes Frederik
Published: March 2022

When stay-at-home orders were issued to slow the spread of COVID-19, building occupancy (and water demand) was drastically decreased in many buildings. There was concern that widespread low water demand may cause unprecedented Legionella occurrence and Legionnaires’ disease incidence. In lieu of evidenced-based guidance, many people flushed their water systems as a preventative measure, using highly variable practices. Here, we present field-scale research from a building before, during, and after periods of low occupancy, and controlled stagnation experiments. We document no change, a > 4-log increase, and a > 1.5-log decrease of L. pneumophila during 3- to 7-week periods of low water demand. L. pneumophila increased by > 1-log after precautionary flushing prior to reoccupancy, which was repeated in controlled boiler flushing experiments. These results demonstrate that the impact of low water demand (colloquially called stagnation) is not as straight forward as is generally assumed, and that some flushing practices have potential unintended consequences. In particular, stagnation must be considered in context with other Legionella growth factors like temperature and flow profiles. Boiler flushing practices that dramatically increase the flow rate and rapidly deplete boiler temperature may mobilize Legionella present in biofilms and sediment.
Identification and Functional Characterization of Tyrosine Decarboxylase from Rehmannia glutinosa
Authors: Li Yuanjun , Wang Yanan , Huang Longyu , Chen Chunrong , An Na , Zheng Xiaoke
Published: March 2022

Rehmannia glutinosa is an important medicinal plant that has long been used in Chinese traditional medicine. Acteoside, one of the bioactive components from R. glutinosa, possessed various pharmacological activities for human health; however, the molecular mechanism of acteoside formation is not fully understood. In the current study, a novel tyrosine decarboxylase (designated as RgTyDC2) was identified from the R. glutinosa transcriptome. Biochemical analysis of RgTyDC2 showed RgTyDC2 uses tyrosine and dopa as the substrate to produce tyramine and dopamine, respectively, and it displays higher catalytic efficiency toward tyrosine than dopa. Moreover, the transcript level of RgTyDC2 was consistent with the accumulation pattern of acteoside in R. glutinosa, supporting its possible role in the biosynthesis of acteoside in vivo.
Videogame-Based Training: The Impact and Interaction of Videogame Characteristics on Learning Outcomes
Authors: Sanchez Diana R.
Published: March 2022

Virtualized training provides high fidelity environments to practice skills and gain knowledge, potentially mitigating harmful consequences from real life mistakes. Current research has focused on videogames, believed to have characteristics that improve learning. There is conflicting evidence on the benefits of using videogame-based training to improve learning. This study explored the impact of two videogame characteristics (i.e., rules/goals clarity and human interaction), on mid-training scores and post-training scores (i.e., familiar task and novel task). Results from a sample of 513 undergraduates showed that both videogame characteristics significantly impacted mid-training performance but not post-training performance; clear rules/goals and completing the training alone improved mid-training performance. There was also a significant moderation between the two videogame characteristics for post-training scores on the novel task, but not the familiar task, or mid-training performance. Findings suggest videogame characteristics have an immediate but not sustained impact on learning; implications are discussed.
Operando Photo-Electrochemical Catalysts Synchrotron Studies
Authors: Soldatov Mikhail A. , Medvedev Pavel V. , Roldugin Victor , Novomlinskiy Ivan N. , Pankin Ilia , Su Hui , Liu Qinghua , Soldatov Alexander V.
Published: March 2022

The attempts to develop efficient methods of solar energy conversion into chemical fuel are ongoing amid climate changes associated with global warming. Photo-electrocatalytic (PEC) water splitting and CO2 reduction reactions show high potential to tackle this challenge. However, the development of economically feasible solutions of PEC solar energy conversion requires novel efficient and stable earth-abundant nanostructured materials. The latter are hardly available without detailed understanding of the local atomic and electronic structure dynamics and mechanisms of the processes occurring during chemical reactions on the catalyst–electrolyte interface. This review considers recent efforts to study photo-electrocatalytic reactions using in situ and operando synchrotron spectroscopies. Particular attention is paid to the operando reaction mechanisms, which were established using X-ray Absorption (XAS) and X-ray Photoelectron (XPS) Spectroscopies. Operando cells that are needed to perform such experiments on synchrotron are covered. Classical and modern theoretical approaches to extract structural information from X-ray Absorption Near-Edge Structure (XANES) spectra are discussed.
Local Anodizing of a Newly Prepared Aluminum Micrometric Disk
Authors: Cicutto Ludovic , Roche Jérome , Arurault Laurent
Published: March 2022

A search through the literature reveals that the vast majority of studies about aluminum anodizing were conducted at the macroscale (i.e., from cm2 up to m2), while those focused on local anodizing (i.e., on surfaces of less than 1 mm2) are rare. The last ones either used insulating masks or were conducted in an electrolyte droplet. The present study describes on the one hand a new way to prepare aluminum microelectrodes of conventional disk-shaped geometry, and on the other hand the local anodizing of their respective aluminum micrometric top-disks. The influence of the anodizing voltage on anodic film characteristics (i.e., thickness, growth rate and expansion factor) was studied during local anodizing. Compared with the values reported for macroscopic anodizing, the pore diameter appears to be significantly low and the film growth rate can reach atypically high values, both specificities probably resulting from a very limited increase in the temperature on the aluminum surface during anodizing.
The Performance and Mechanism of a Mg-Al Double-Layer Oxide in Chloride ion Removal from an Aqueous Solution
Authors: Xu Xueqin , Li Peng , Yang Shichong , Zhang Tong , Han Xiangke , Zhou Guoli , Cao Yijun , Teng Daoguang
Published: March 2022

The increasing threat of chloride ions (Cl−) has led researchers to explore efficient removal technologies. Sewage treatment with a double-layer hydroxide/oxide (LDH/LDO) is receiving increasing attention. In this work, Mg-Al LDO adsorbents were produced by the calcination of the Mg-Al LDH precursor, which was constituted by improved coprecipitation. The influence of calcination temperature, calcination time, adsorbent dosage, Cl− initial concentration, contact time, and adsorption temperature on Cl− elimination was investigated systematically. The experimental results showed that a better porous structure endowed the Mg-Al LDO with outstanding adsorption properties for Cl−. The adsorption process was well matched to the pseudo-second-order kinetics model and the Freundlich model. Under optimal conditions, more than 97% of the Cl− could be eliminated. Moreover, the removal efficiency was greater than 90% even after 11 adsorption–desorption cycles. It was found that the electrostatic interaction between Cl− and the positively charged Mg-Al LDO laminate, coupled with the reconstruction of the layer structure, was what dominated the Cl− removal process.
Effect of Intermediate Semiconducting TiOx Thin Films on Nanoparticle-Mediated Electron Transfer: Electrooxidation of CO
Authors: Galyamova Aigerim , Crooks Richard M.
Published: March 2022

The concept of nanoparticle-mediated electron transfer (eT) across insulating thin films was elucidated theoretically by Allongue and Chazalviel in 2011. In their model, metal nanoparticles (NPs) are immobilized atop passivating, self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). They found that under certain conditions, related to the thickness of the SAM and the size of the NPs, efficient faradaic oxidation and reduction reactions could proceed at the NP surface. In the absence of NPs, however, eT was suppressed by the insulating SAM thin films. Allongue and Chazalviel concluded that, within certain bounds, eT is mediated by fast tunneling between the conductive electrode and the metal NPs, while the kinetics of the redox reaction are controlled by the NPs. This understanding has been confirmed using a variety of experimental models. The theory is based on electron tunneling; therefore, the nature of the intervening medium (the insulator in prior studies) should not affect the eT rate. In the present manuscript, however, we show that the theory breaks down under certain electrochemical conditions when the medium between conductors is an n-type semiconductor. Specifically, we find that in the presence of either Au or Pt NPs immobilized on a thin film of TiOx, CO electrooxidation does not proceed. In contrast, the exact same systems lead to the efficient reduction of oxygen. At present, we are unable to explain this finding within the context of the model of Allongue and Chazalviel.
Formulation and Characterization of Doxycycline-Loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles for Testing Antitumor/Antiangiogenic Action in Experimental Colon Cancer in Mice
Authors: Alshaman Reem , Alattar Abdullah , El-Sayed Rehab M. , Gardouh Ahmed R. , Elshaer Rabie E. , Elkazaz Amany Y. , Eladl Mohamed Ahmed , El-Sherbiny Mohamed , Farag Noha E. , Hamdan Ahmed Mohsen , Zaitone Sawsan A.
Published: March 2022

Nanotherapeutics can enhance the characteristics of drugs, such as rapid systemic clearance and systemic toxicities. Polymeric nanoparticles (PRNPs) depend on dispersion of a drug in an amorphous state in a polymer matrix. PRNPs are capable of delivering drugs and improving their safety. The primary goal of this study is to formulate doxycycline-loaded PRNPs by applying the nanoprecipitation method. Eudragit S100 (ES100) (for DOX-PRNP1) and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate HP55 (for DOX-PRNP2) were tested as the drug carrying polymers and the DOX-PRNP2 showed better characteristics and drug release % and was hence selected to be tested in the biological study. Six different experimental groups were formed from sixty male albino mice. 1,2,-Dimethylhydrazine was used for 16 weeks to induce experimental colon cancer. We compared the oral administration of DOX-PRNP2 in doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg with the free drug. Results indicated that DOX-PRNP2 had greater antitumor activity, as evidenced by an improved histopathological picture for colon specimens as well as a decrease in the tumor scores. In addition, when compared to free DOX, the DOX-PRNP2 reduced the angiogenic indicators VEGD and CD31 to a greater extent. Collectively, the findings demonstrated that formulating DOX in PRNPs was useful in enhancing antitumor activity and can be used in other models of cancers to verify their efficacy and compatibility with our study.
Amphiphilic P(OEGMA-co-DIPAEMA) Hyperbranched Copolymer/Magnetic Nanoparticle Hybrid Nanostructures by Co-Assembly
Authors: Selianitis Dimitrios , Forys Aleksander , Trzebicka Barbara , Alemayehu Adam , Tyrpekl Václav , Pispas Stergios
Published: March 2022

This work presents the utilization of amphiphilic poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl methacrylate)-co-poly(2-(diisopropylamino)ethyl methacrylate), P(OEGMA-co-DIPAEMA), hyperbranched (HB) copolymers, forming polymeric aggregates in aqueous media, as building nanocomponents and nanocarriers for the entrapment of magnetic cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (CoFe2O4, MNPs), and the hydrophobic drug curcumin (CUR) in their hydrophobic domains. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) techniques were used to evaluate the multifunctional hybrid nanostructures formed in aqueous media by co-assembly of the components and their solution properties. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) or MNPs/CUR were co-assembled effectively with pre-existing polymer aggregates, leading to well-defined hybrid nanostructures. Magnetophoresis experiments revealed that the hybrid nanostructures retain the magnetic properties of MNPs after their co-assembly with the hyperbranched copolymers. The hybrid nanostructures demonstrate a significant colloidal stability under physiological conditions. Furthermore, MNPs/CUR-loaded aggregates displayed considerable fluorescence as demonstrated by fluorescence spectroscopy. These hybrid nanostructures could be promising candidates for drug delivery and bio-imaging applications.
Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Infantile Spasms
Authors: Muthaffar Osama Y.
Published: March 2022

Background: Infantile spasms are an age-specific epileptic disorder. They occur in infancy and early childhood. They can be caused by multiple etiologies. Structural abnormalities represent an important cause of infantile spasms. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the integral modalities in the evaluation of this condition. Purpose: The aim of this study is to review and analyze the clinical characteristics and brain MRI findings in a cohort of children diagnosed with infantile spasms. Material and Methods: A cohort of fifty-six children diagnosed with infantile spasms in infancy and early childhood was included. All of them underwent brain MRI for evaluation. The study was conducted in the period from January 2016 to January 2020. Results: Females comprised 57% of the cohort. The mean age for seizure onset was 5.9 months (SD 2.7). Forty-one patients (73%) had active epilepsy, and 51% were diagnosed with global developmental delay. Consanguinity was present in 59% of the cohort. Most of the follow-up MRIs showed structural abnormalities (84%). Hypoxia was reported in 17% of MRIs. Malformations of cortical development were seen in five patients. Brain MRI findings were normal in 16% of patients, and delayed myelination was seen in nineteen patients. Most of the children with active epilepsy (64%) and developmental delay (82%) had an abnormal brain MRI. It was noticed that abnormal second brain MRIs were more likely to be associated with active epilepsy and developmental delay (p = 0.05). Conclusions: Brain MRI is an integral part of infantile spasms’ clinical evaluation. Infantile spasms and abnormal brain MRI can be associated with active epilepsy and global developmental delay.
Incremental Doses of Nitrate-Rich Beetroot Juice Do Not Modify Cognitive Function and Cerebral Blood Flow in Overweight and Obese Older Adults: A 13-Week Pilot Randomised Clinical Trial
Authors: Babateen Abrar M. , Shannon Oliver M. , O’Brien Gerard M. , Okello Edward , Smith Ellen , Olgacer Dilara , Koehl Christina , Fostier William , Wightman Emma , Kennedy David , Mathers John C. , Siervo Mario
Published: March 2022

Nitrate-rich food increases nitric oxide (NO) production and may have beneficial effects on vascular, metabolic, and brain function. This pilot study tested the effects of prolonged consumption of a range of doses of dietary nitrate (NO3−), provided as beetroot juice, on cognitive function and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in overweight and obese older participants. The study had a 13-week single-blind, randomised, parallel design, and 62 overweight and obese older participants (aged 60 to 75 years) received the following interventions: (1) high NO3− (2 × 70 mL beetroot juice/day) (2) medium NO3− (70 mL beetroot juice/day), (3) low NO3− (70 mL beetroot juice on alternate days), or (4) placebo (70 mL of NO3−-depleted beetroot juice on alternate days). Cognitive functions were assessed using the Computerised Mental Performance Assessment System (COMPASS) assessment battery. CBF, monitored by concentration changes in oxygenated and deoxygenated haemoglobin, was assessed in the frontal cortex using near-infrared spectroscopy. The findings of this pilot study showed that cognitive function and CBF were not affected by supplementation with NO3−-rich beetroot juice for 13 weeks, irrespective of the NO3− dose administered. These findings require confirmation in larger studies using more sophisticated imaging methods (i.e., MRI) to determine whether prolonged dietary NO3− supplementation influences brain function in older overweight people.
The Effects of Commonly Consumed Dietary Fibres on the Gut Microbiome and Its Fibre Fermentative Capacity in Adults with Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Remission
Authors: Gerasimidis Konstantinos , Nichols Ben , McGowan Mhairi , Svolos Vaios , Papadopoulou Rodanthi , Kokkorou Margarita , Rebull Martina , Bello Gonzalez Teresita , Hansen Richard , Russell Richard Kay , Gaya Daniel Richard
Published: March 2022

Introduction: It has been suggested that the gut microbiome of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is unable to ferment dietary fibre. This project explored the in vitro effect of fibre fermentation on production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and on microbiome composition. Methods: Faecal samples were collected from 40 adults (>16 y) with IBD (n = 20 with Crohn’s disease and n = 20 with ulcerative colitis) in clinical remission and 20 healthy controls (HC). In vitro batch culture fermentations were carried out using as substrates maize starch, apple pectin, raftilose, wheat bran, α cellulose and a mixture of these five fibres. SCFA concentration (umol/g) was quantified with gas chromatography and microbiome was profiled with 16S rRNA sequencing. Results: Fibre fermentation did not correct the baseline microbial dysbiosis or lower diversity seen in either patients with CD or UC. For all fibres, up to 51% of baseline ASVs or genera changed in abundance in HC. In patients with IBD, fermentation of fibre substrates had no effect on species or genera abundance. Production of SCFA varied among the different fibre substrates but this was not different between the two IBD groups and compared to HC after either 5 or 24 h fermentation. Conclusions: Despite extensive microbial dysbiosis, patients with IBD have a similar capacity to ferment fibre and release SCFA as HC. Fibre supplementation alone may be unlikely to restore to a healthy status the compositional shifts characteristic of the IBD microbiome.
FADS1 and FADS2 Gene Polymorphisms Modulate the Relationship of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acid Plasma Concentrations in Gestational Weight Gain: A NISAMI Cohort Study
Authors: Santana Jerusa da Mota , Pereira Marcos , Carvalho Gisele Queiroz , Gouveia Peluzio Maria do Carmo , Drumond Louro Iúri , Santos Djanilson Barbosa dos , Oliveira Ana Marlucia
Published: March 2022

The polymorphisms of fatty acid desaturase genes FADS1 and FADS2 have been associated with an increase in weight gain. We investigated FADS1 and FADS2 gene polymorphisms and the relation between ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acid plasma concentrations and gestational weight gain. A prospective cohort study of 199 pregnant women was followed in Santo Antônio de Jesus, Brazil. Plasma levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were measured at baseline and gestational weight gain during the first, second, and third trimesters. Fatty acid recognition was carried out with the aid of gas chromatography. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped using real-time PCR. Statistical analyses included Structural Equation Modelling. A direct effect of FADS1 and FADS2 gene polymorphisms on gestational weight was observed; however, only the SNP rs174575 (FADS2) showed a significant positive direct effect on weight over the course of the pregnancy (0.106; p = 0.016). In terms of the influence of SNPs on plasma levels of PUFAs, it was found that SNP rs174561 (FADS1) and SNP rs174575 (FADS2) showed direct adverse effects on plasma concentrations of ω-3 (eicosapentaenoic acid and alpha-linoleic acid), and only SNP rs174575 had positive direct effects on plasma levels of ARA and the ARA/LA (arachidonic acid/linoleic acid) ratio, ω-6 products, while the SNP rs3834458 (FADS2) had an adverse effect on plasma concentrations of EPA, leading to its increase. Pregnant women who were heterozygous and homozygous for the minor allele of the SNP rs3834458 (FADS2), on the other hand, showed larger concentrations of series ω-3 substrates, which indicates a protective factor for women’s health.
Exposure to Chinese Famine during Early Life Increases the Risk of Fracture during Adulthood
Authors: Shi Zumin , Shi Xinyu , Yan Alice F.
Published: March 2022

This study focused on identifying whether exposure to the Chinese Great Famine (1959–1961) in early life amplified the potential for fractures in adulthood. The survey was conducted using data from the 1997–2015 China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS)—5235 adults born between 1954 and 1964 were selected as the sample size. Fracture was defined based on self-report. Those born from 1962–1964 were treated as non-exposure group. Those with exposure to famine were divided into four subgroups: Fetal, early childhood, mid-childhood, and late childhood cohorts. The association between the groups and fracture was determined using Cox regression. In follow-up data (mean of 11 years), fractures were identified in 418 of the participants. The incidence of fracture was 8.7 in late childhood, 8.1 in mid-childhood, 8.3 in early childhood, 7.0 in fetal, and 5.4 in non-exposed cohorts per 1000 person-year. Compared with the non-exposed group, the famine-exposed groups had an increased risk of developing fracture in adulthood with hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CI of 1.29 (0.90–1.85), 1.48 (1.08–2.03), 1.45 (1.02–2.06), and 1.54 (1.08–2.20), respectively. The positive link of famine exposure to risk of fracture occurred primarily in those participants with a modern diet who lived in urban areas. In conclusion, the risk of fracture in Chinese adults is associated with famine exposure.
Health Behaviors of Austrian Secondary School Teachers and Principals at a Glance: First Results of the From Science 2 School Study Focusing on Sports Linked to Mixed, Vegetarian, and Vegan Diets
Authors: Wirnitzer Katharina C. , Drenowatz Clemens , Cocca Armando , Tanous Derrick R. , Motevalli Mohamad , Wirnitzer Gerold , Schätzer Manuel , Ruedl Gerhard , Kirschner Werner
Published: March 2022

Lifestyle behaviors are key contributors to sustainable health and well-being over the lifespan. The analysis of health-related behaviors is crucial for understanding the state of health in different populations, especially teachers who play a critical role in establishing the lifelong health behaviors of their pupils. This multidisciplinary, nationwide study aimed to assess and compare lifestyle patterns of Austrian teachers and school principals at secondary levels I and II with a specific focus on physical activity and diet. A total number of 1350 teachers (1.5% of the eligible Austrian sample; 69.7% females; 37.7% from urban areas; mean age: 45.8 ± 11.4 years; mean BMI: 24.2 ± 4.0) completed a standardized online survey following an epidemiological approach. Across the total sample, 34.4% were overweight/obese with a greater prevalence of overweight/obesity in males than females (49.5% vs. 29.2%, p < 0.01) and rural vs. urban environments (35.9% vs. 31.3%). Most participants (89.3%) reported a mixed diet, while 7.9% and 2.9% were vegetarians and vegans, respectively. The average BMI of teachers with mixed diets (24.4 ± 4.0 kg/m2) was significantly higher than vegetarians (23.1 ± 3.2 kg/m2) and vegans (22.7 ± 4.3 kg/m2). Vegans reported a lower level of alcohol intake (p < 0.05) among dietary groups. There was no between-group difference in smoking (p > 0.05). The prevalence of engagement in regular physical activity was 88.7% for leisure-time sports/exercises and 29.2% for club sports. Compared with the previous reports on general populations, the present data suggest an acceptable overall health status among Austrian teachers.
Reducing Metabolic Syndrome through a Group Educational Intervention Program in Adults with Obesity: IGOBE Program
Authors: Tejera Cristina , Porca Cristina , Rodriguez-Carnero Gemma , Andújar Paula , Casanueva Felipe F. , Bellido Diego , Crujeiras Ana B.
Published: March 2022

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cancer. Despite the higher prevalence of MetS in obese adults, little is known about the effectiveness of intensive and group interventions in improving MetS prevalence. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of an intensive lifestyle program in reducing the prevalence of MetS in adults with obesity. Patients with obesity (n = 456, 48.8 ± 12.8 years, 18.5% male) were randomized in two groups as indicated in a prospective interventional real-life study: a control group (CG), in which patients received usual care, and an interventional group (IG), in which the patients participate in a healthy lifestyle habits program in six weekly sessions, IGOBE program. Anthropometric, body composition, medications, and MetS features data were analyzed in both groups at the pre-intervention and post-intervention stages using a completer’s analysis. At 12 months of follow-up, the IG showed a relative reduction of 13.4% in the prevalence of MetS from baseline, while the CG showed a reduction of 2.1% (p < 0.001). A significant reduction was also observed in four of five MetS features. In this trial, implementation of the IGOBE program resulted in a significant reduction in MetS prevalence and better control of MetS features compared with the standard of care.
Biocontrol of Avian Gastrointestinal Parasites Using Predatory Fungi: Current Status, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Lozano João , Almeida Cristina , Oliveira Manuela , Paz-Silva Adolfo , Madeira de Carvalho Luís
Published: March 2022

This review describes the current research status regarding the implementation of predatory fungi in the biological control approach of bird gastrointestinal (GI) parasitosis. The main GI parasites of Galliformes (e.g., broilers, layers, peacocks, pheasants) and Ratites (e.g., ostriches, emus, rheas) are addressed, as well as their impact on farms, zoos, and private collections. The main characteristics regarding biocontrol with predatory fungi are briefly described, such as their mode of action and efficacy against GI parasites of different animal hosts. The state of the art regarding the use of predatory fungi in birds is reviewed here by describing all associated articles already published in the main databases, techniques, and their main findings. Ovicidal fungi such as Pochonia chlamydosporia, Metarhizium spp. and Acremonium spp., and larvicidal fungi, namely Duddingtonia flagrans, Arthrobotrys spp. and Monacrosporium thaumasium, have shown promising predacious activity against ascarid eggs and nematode larvae from chickens and ostriches, both in vitro and in vivo, also revealing tolerance to the GI passage in chickens and maintenance of predacious capacity. Further studies are needed to understand the fungi–parasite–host gut microbiota interactions and target other avian GI parasitic species, such as nematodes, coccidia, cestodes, and trematodes.
Investigation into a Superspreading Event of the German 2020–2021 Avian Influenza Epidemic
Authors: Denzin Nicolai , Bölling Marlies , Pohlmann Anne , King Jacqueline , Globig Anja , Conraths Franz Josef
Published: March 2022

Between November 2020 and May 2021, Germany faced the largest highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) epidemic recorded so far with 245 outbreaks in poultry and captive birds and more than 1000 diagnosed cases in wild birds. In March 2021, an HPAI outbreak of subtype H5N8 was confirmed in a holding rearing laying hens for sales. Disease introduction probably occurred via indirect contact with infected wild birds. Since the index farm sold chicken to customers including many smallholders, partly in travel trade, the primary outbreak triggered 105 known secondary outbreaks in five German federal states. An outbreak investigation was carried out with links between the involved farms retrieved from the German Animal Disease Notification System used for network analysis. In some cases, links were confirmed through sequence-based molecular analysis. Special emphasis was put on the estimation of the flock incubation period as a prerequisite of sound contact tracing. The unique circumstances of an outbreak farm with frequent direct trade contacts prior to disease suspicion enabled an assessment of the flock incubation period based on the consequences of contacts, further supported by molecular analysis and modeling of disease spread. In this case, the flock incubation period was at least 14 days.
Molecular and Clinical Prognostic Biomarkers of COVID-19 Severity and Persistence
Authors: Papadopoulou Gethsimani , Manoloudi Eleni , Repousi Nikolena , Skoura Lemonia , Hurst Tara , Karamitros Timokratis
Published: March 2022

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), poses several challenges to clinicians, due to its unpredictable clinical course. The identification of laboratory biomarkers, specific cellular, and molecular mediators of immune response could contribute to the prognosis and management of COVID-19 patients. Of utmost importance is also the detection of differentially expressed genes, which can serve as transcriptomic signatures, providing information valuable to stratify patients into groups, based on the severity of the disease. The role of biomarkers such as IL-6, procalcitonin, neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio, white blood cell counts, etc. has already been highlighted in recently published studies; however, there is a notable amount of new evidence that has not been summarized yet, especially regarding transcriptomic signatures. Hence, in this review, we assess the latest cellular and molecular data and determine the significance of abnormalities in potential biomarkers for COVID-19 severity and persistence. Furthermore, we applied Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis using the genes reported as differentially expressed in the literature in order to investigate which biological pathways are significantly enriched. The analysis revealed a number of processes, such as inflammatory response, and monocyte and neutrophil chemotaxis, which occur as part of the complex immune response to SARS-CoV-2.
The Prevalence and Genetic Diversity of Babesia divergens in Ixodes ricinus Nymphs Collected from Farm- and Woodland Sites in Ireland
Authors: McKiernan Fiona , Flattery Amie , Browne John , Gray Jeremy , Zaid Taher , O’Connor Jack , Zintl Annetta
Published: March 2022

The parasite, Babesia divergens causes redwater fever in cattle and a rare, albeit life-threatening disease in humans. In Ireland, B. divergens has always been considered an important pathogen as the high incidence of redwater fever precluded areas of the country from cattle farming. Moreover a relatively large proportion of human cases were reported here. Red deer (Cervus elaphus), which often harbour babesias that are genetically very similar (if not identical) to B. divergens, are quite widespread. In this study 1369 nymphal Ixodes ricinus ticks collected from various habitats were screened for the presence of B. divergens using TaqMan followed by conventional nested PCR. Fragments of the 18S rRNA gene locus (560 bp) were compared against published Irish B. divergens isolates from cattle, humans and red deer. Overall just 1% of I. ricinus nymphs were infected with B. divergens, with similar infection rates in ticks collected from farm- and woodland. Most (90%) 18S rRNA gene fragments derived from woodland ticks were 100% identical to published sequences from cattle and humans. One differed by a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) as did two isolates from ticks collected in bogland. Two isolates derived from nymphs collected in farmland differed by 2 and 4 SNPs respectively.
Vitamin D Status and Immune Response in Hospitalized Patients with Moderate and Severe COVID-19
Authors: Karonova Tatiana L. , Kudryavtsev Igor V. , Golovatyuk Ksenia A. , Aquino Arthur D. , Kalinina Olga V. , Chernikova Alena T. , Zaikova Ekaterina K. , Lebedev Denis A. , Bykova Ekaterina S. , Golovkin Alexey S. , Shlyakhto Evgeny V.
Published: March 2022

A low 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) level is considered as an independent risk factor for COVID-19 severity. However, the association between vitamin D status and outcomes in COVID-19 is controversial. In the present study we investigate the association between the serum 25(OH)D level, immune response, and clinical disease course in patients with COVID-19. A total of 311 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 were enrolled. For patients with a vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency, the prevalence of severe COVID-19 was higher than in those with a normal 25(OH)D level (p < 0.001). The threshold of 25(OH)D level associated with mortality was 11.4 ng/mL (p = 0.003, ROC analysis). The frequency of CD3+CD4+ T helper (Th) cells was decreased in patients with 25(OH)D level ≤ 11.4 ng/mL, compared to healthy controls (HCs). There were no differences in the frequency of naive, central memory (CM), effector memory (EM), and terminally differentiated effector memory Th cells in patients with COVID-19 compared to HCs. The frequency of T-follicular helpers was decreased both in patients with 25(OH)D level > 11.4 ng/mL (p < 0.001) and 25(OH)D level ≤ 11.4 ng/mL (p = 0.003) compared to HCs. Patients with 25(OH)D level > 11.4 ng/mL had an increased frequency of Th2 CM (p = 0.010) and decreased Th17 CM (p < 0.001). While the frequency of Th2 EM was significantly increased, the frequency of Th17 EM was significantly decreased in both groups compared to HCs. Thus, 25(OH)D level is an independent risk factor for the disease severity and mortality in patients with COVID-19. We demonstrate that the serum 25(OH)D level ≤ 11.4 ng/mL is associated with the stimulation of Th2 and the downregulation of Th17 cell polarization of the adaptive immunity in patients with COVID-19.
In Vitro Skin Delivery of Griseofulvin by Layer-by-Layer Nanocoated Emulsions Stabilized by Whey Protein and Polysaccharides
Authors: Otto Daniel P. , Otto Anja , de Villiers Melgardt M.
Published: March 2022

Griseofulvin is a poorly water-soluble drug administered orally to treat topical fungal infections of the skin and hair. However, oral administration leads to poor and unpredictable drug pharmacokinetics. Additionally, griseofulvin is unstable in the presence of light. A layer-by-layer (LbL) nanocoating approach was employed to curb these shortcomings by stabilizing emulsions, lyophilized emulsions, and reconstituted emulsions with a layer each of whey protein, and either hyaluronic acid, amylopectin, or alginic acid, which captured the drug. The coating materials are biological, environmentally benign, and plentiful. Photostability studies indicated that the LbL particles afforded 6 h of protection of the topical application. In vitro absorption studies showed that griseofulvin concentrated preferentially in the stratum corneum, with virtually no transdermal delivery. Therefore, LbL-nanocoated emulsions, lyophilized particles, and reconstituted lyophilized emulsions can produce a viable topical delivery system to treat superficial fungal infections.
Gene Expression Analysis of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Lipoxygenase Cascade and Oxylipin Signature under Abiotic Stress
Authors: Gorina Svetlana , Ogorodnikova Anna , Mukhtarova Lucia , Toporkova Yana
Published: March 2022

The metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids through the lipoxygenase-catalyzed step and subsequent reactions is referred to as the lipoxygenase (LOX) pathway. The components of this system, such as jasmonates, are involved in growth, development and defense reactions of plants. In this report, we focus on dynamics of expression of different LOX pathway genes and activities of target enzymes with three abiotic stress factors: darkness, salinity and herbicide toxicity. To obtain a more complete picture, the expression profiles of marker genes for salicylic acid, abscisic acid, ethylene, auxin and gibberellin-dependent signaling systems under the same stresses were also analyzed. The gene expression in Solanum tuberosum plants was analyzed using qRT-PCR, and we found that the LOX-cascade-related genes responded to darkness, salinity and herbicide toxicity in different ways. We detected activation of a number of 9-LOX pathway genes; however, in contrast to studies associated with biotic stress (infection), the 9-divinyl ether synthase branch of the LOX cascade was inhibited under all three stresses. GC-MS analysis of the oxylipin profiles also showed the main activity of the 9-LOX-cascade-related enzymes after treatment with herbicide and darkness.
Phytoremediation Capability and Copper Uptake of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Copper Contaminated Soils
Authors: Daryabeigi Zand Ali , Mühling Karl H.
Published: March 2022

Copper is a frequently used heavy metal worldwide and known to be an essential micronutrient for most living organisms including plants. However, excessive levels of copper in soil may adversely affect plant growth and survival. The continuing introduction of copper to soil, e.g., through excessive utilization of agrochemicals has raised serious environmental concerns throughout the world. A variety of plants have the capability to eliminate pollutants from soil through different mechanisms; however, limited information is reported on phytoremediation potential of maize (Zea mays L.) and its uptake and the accumulation potential in copper-containing soils. The effects of additions of 0, 50, 100, 200 and 300 mg kg−1 of copper to soil on growth parameters of Z. mays, copper uptake from soil and accumulation in roots and shoots, and phytoremediation potential of Z. mays were investigated in this research. Copper content in soil and plant samples were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The addition of 50 mg kg−1 Cu stimulated Z. mays growth parameters, while higher content of Cu exhibited inhibitory effects of plant growth. Results indicated that roots accumulated significantly higher levels of Cu than shoots in all treatments, suggesting dominancy of phytostabilization mechanism in remediation of Cu-polluted soil by Z. mays. However, translocation of Cu from the roots to the aerial parts enhanced to some extent with copper level in soil. The greatest Cu accumulation capacity of 5210 µg per pot was gained in Z. mays cultivated in soil treated with 200 mg kg−1 copper. Results demonstrated that Z. mays can promisingly remediate low to moderately copper-contaminated soils.
Viscoelastic Behavior of Crude Oil-Gum Emulsions in Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Ghannam Mamdouh T. , Selim Mohamed Y. E. , Zekri Abdulrazag Y. , Esmail Nabil
Published: March 2022

The experimental study of the Creep-recovery examination is necessary to understand the viscoelastic behavior of crude oil-Xanthan gum emulsions. The experimental measurements and analysis of these tests were completed using RheoStress RS100 under controlled stress CS-mode. Rheometers with CS-mode allow for a useful and direct technique for the experimental measurements of creep and recovery stages. This investigation covers a wide range of crude oil concentration of 0–75% by volume, Xanthan concentration range of 0–104 ppm, and two types of Xanthan gums are used and investigated. The creep-recovery measurements of crude oil-Xanthan gums emulsions were extensively investigated. It was important to find the linear viscoelastic range for the examined crude oil-Xanthan gum emulsions. The experimental measurements and analysis of the creep-recovery examinations showed that the linear viscoelastic range was up to 1 Pa. The experimental investigation showed that the higher the concentration of the used gum and crude oil, the lower the compliance of the emulsions. For the Xanthan concentrations of less than 103 ppm, the crude oil-gum emulsion exhibited viscous behavior. However, for the Xanthan concentration of higher than 103, the examined emulsions displayed viscoelastic behavior.
Modulation of Volatile Thiol Release during Fermentation of Red Musts by Wine Yeast
Authors: Cordente Antonio G. , Curtin Christopher D. , Solomon Mark , Kulcsar Allie C. , Watson Flynn , Pisaniello Lisa , Schmidt Simon A. , Espinase Nandorfy Damian
Published: March 2022

During the alcoholic fermentation of grape sugars, wine yeast produces a range of secondary metabolites that play a critical role in the aroma profile of wines. One of the most impactful yeast-modified compound families, particularly in white wines, are the ‘fruity’ polyfunctional thiols, which include 3-mercaptohexan-1-ol (3-MH) and 4-mercapto-4-methylpentan-2-one (4-MMP). While the formation and stylistic contribution of these thiols have been extensively researched in white wines, little is known about the conditions leading to their formation in red wines. In this study, we explored the ability of yeast strains to modulate the release of these aroma compounds during the fermentation of two red musts. In laboratory-scale Pinot Noir fermentations, the formation of 3-MH strongly correlated with yeast β-lyase activity, particularly with the presence of certain genotypes of the flavour-releasing gene IRC7. Subsequent production of Grenache wine at the pilot scale, with detailed compositional and sensory analysis, was undertaken to confirm laboratory-scale observations. A commercial wine strain used for expressing ‘fruity’ thiols in Sauvignon Blanc was shown to produce wines that exhibited more intense red fruit aromas. These results reveal an opportunity for winemakers to shape red wine aroma and flavour by using yeasts that might typically be considered for white wine production.
Evaluation of Spoiler Model Based on Air Cooling on Lithium-Ion Battery Pack Temperature Uniformity
Authors: Kim Chanyang , Han Jaeyoung , Hong Seokmoo
Published: March 2022

Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are a new trend for the vehicle industry, due to the environmental regulations of the internal combustion engine (ICE) and pollutant emission of transportation. However, despite being very promising, the durability of the battery, due to overheating, is still an obstacle. In particular, electric vehicle batteries are manufactured with high voltage and high capacity to ensure power and energy efficiency. For this reason, a high temperature is generated in the system, which reduces the battery performance and life cycle. In this study, three different layouts, based on a direct contact air-cooled system, are designed to compare and improve the cooling performance. Further, a battery cooling test is conducted to verify the designed model. The results show that the spoiler model reduces the maximum battery temperature by (about) 16%, and effectively improves the temperature distribution of the battery cell by (about) 65%, when compared with a conventional cooling method without a spoiler.
Phenomenology and Liturgical Practice: Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Gschwandtner Christina M.
Published: March 2022

What do people do when they worship together [...]
Retrospective Predictions of Rice and Other Crop Production in Madagascar Using Soil Moisture and an NDVI-Based Calendar from 2010–2017
Authors: Rigden Angela J. , Golden Christopher , Huybers Peter
Published: March 2022

Malagasy subsistence farmers, who comprise 70% of the nearly 26 million people in Madagascar, often face food insecurity because of unreliable food production systems and adverse crop conditions. The 2020–2021 drought in Madagascar, in particular, is associated with an exceptional food crisis, yet we are unaware of peer-reviewed studies that quantitatively link variations in weather and climate to agricultural outcomes for staple crops in Madagascar. In this study, we use historical data to empirically assess the relationship between soil moisture and food production. Specifically, we focus on major staple crops that form the foundation of Malagasy food systems and nutrition, including rice, which accounts for 46% of the average Malagasy caloric intake, as well as cassava, maize, and sweet potato. Available data associated with survey-based crop statistics constrain our analysis to 2010–2017 across four clusters of Malagasy districts. Strong correlations are observed between remotely sensed soil moisture and rice production, ranging between 0.67 to 0.95 depending on the cluster and choice of crop calendar. Predictions are shown to be statistically significant at the 90% confidence level using bootstrapping techniques, as well as through an out-of-sample prediction framework. Soil moisture also shows skill in predicting cassava, maize, and sweet potato production, but only when the months most vulnerable to water stress are isolated. Additional analyses using more survey data, as well as potentially more-refined crop maps and calendars, will be useful for validating and improving soil-moisture-based predictions of yield.