bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Activation of Mg Powder Promoted by Chloride and Activation Mechanism
Authors: Wang Xiaoxuan , Guo Xiaoyan , Zhu Lixiang , Wang Shuo , Zou Meishuai , Li Xiaodong , Zhang Xiaodong , Song Tinglu
Published: September 2021

Magnesium has bright market prospects such as generating thrust for under water engines and hydrogen production. However, the passive oxide film on the surface of magnesium powder prevents the further reaction of magnesium with water at room temperature. In this paper, highly active magnesium-based materials were prepared via ball milling pure Mg with different chlorides (NiCl2, CoCl2, CuCl2, FeCl3). The activity of the as obtained powder was analyzed through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), synchrotron X-ray tomography, Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS), etc. Among the various compositions, the Mg-6%CoCl2 composite exhibited the best hydrogen production performance with a hydrogen generation volume of 423 mL/(0.5 g) and a conversion yield of 96.6%. The related activation mechanism was thoroughly studied, showing that the addition of chloride during ball milling can effectively break the continuity of oxide films on Mg surfaces and introduces a large number of micro defects. In addition, the EXAFS and tomography data verified that metallic cobalt was generated during the ball milling process, subsequently forming a Mg-Co micro glance cell, and the Cl− in the system accelerates the corrosion of Mg. The active mechanism can be verified as synergistic effects of micro glance cell and as-generated surface microcracks.
A Piezoresistive Pressure Sensor with Optimized Positions and Thickness of Piezoresistors
Authors: Meng Qinggang , Lu Yulan , Wang Junbo , Chen Deyong , Chen Jian
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a piezoresistive pressure sensor based on silicon on insulator (SOI) was presented, which was composed of an SOI layer with sensing elements and a glass cap for a hermetic package. Different from its conventional counterparts, the position and thickness of the four piezoresistors was optimized based on numerical simulation, which suggests that two piezoresistors at the center while the other two at the edge of the pressure-sensitive diaphragm and a thickness of 2 μm can produce the maximum sensitivity and the minimum nonlinearity. Due to the use of silicon rather than metal for electrical connections, the piezoresistive pressure sensor was fabricated in a highly simplified process. From the experimental results, the fabricated piezoresistive pressure sensor demonstrated a high sensitivity of 37.79 mV·V−1·MPa−1, a high full-scale (FS) output of 472.33 mV, a low hysteresis of 0.09% FS, a good repeatability of 0.03% FS and a good accuracy of 0.06% FS at 20 °C. A temperature coefficient of sensitivity of 0.44 mV·MPa−1·°C−1 and a low zero drift were also shown at different temperatures. The piezoresistive pressure sensor developed in this study may function as an enabling tool in pressure measurements.
Fabrication of Multifocal Microlens Array by One Step Exposure Process
Authors: Yuan Wei , Cai Yajuan , Xu Cheng , Pang Hui , Cao Axiu , Fu Yongqi , Deng Qiling
Published: September 2021

Microlenses can be widely used in integrated micro-optical systems. However, in some special applications, such as light field imaging systems, multifocal microlens arrays (MLA) are expected to improve imaging resolution. For the fabrication of multifocal MLA, the traditional fabrication method is no longer applicable. To solve this problem, a fabrication method of multifocal MLA by a one step exposure process is proposed. Through the analyses and research of photoresist AZ9260, the nonlinear relationship between exposure dose and exposure depth is established. In the design of the mask, the mask pattern is corrected according to the nonlinear relationship to obtain the final mask. The continuous surface of the multifocal MLA is fabricated by the mask moving exposure. The experimental results show that the prepared multifocal MLA has high filling factor and surface fidelity. What is more, this method is simple and efficient to use in practical applications.
Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing: Clostridioides difficile Biofilm as a Reservoir for Recurrent Infections
Authors: Meza-Torres Jazmin , Auria Emile , Dupuy Bruno , Tremblay Yannick D. N.
Published: September 2021

The microbiota inhabiting the intestinal tract provide several critical functions to its host. Microorganisms found at the mucosal layer form organized three-dimensional structures which are considered to be biofilms. Their development and functions are influenced by host factors, host-microbe interactions, and microbe-microbe interactions. These structures can dictate the health of their host by strengthening the natural defenses of the gut epithelium or cause disease by exacerbating underlying conditions. Biofilm communities can also block the establishment of pathogens and prevent infectious diseases. Although these biofilms are important for colonization resistance, new data provide evidence that gut biofilms can act as a reservoir for pathogens such as Clostridioides difficile. In this review, we will look at the biofilms of the intestinal tract, their contribution to health and disease, and the factors influencing their formation. We will then focus on the factors contributing to biofilm formation in C. difficile, how these biofilms are formed, and their properties. In the last section, we will look at how the gut microbiota and the gut biofilm influence C. difficile biofilm formation, persistence, and transmission.
Molecular Identification and Characterization of Probiotic Bacillus Species with the Ability to Control Vibrio spp. in Wild Fish Intestines and Sponges from the Vietnam Sea
Authors: Chau Khanh Minh , Van Thi Thu Hao , Quyen Dong Van , Le Hung Dinh , Phan Trinh Hoai Thi , Ngo Ngoc Duy Thi , Vo Trang Dieu Thi , Dinh Trung Thanh , Le Hoa Thi , Khanh Huynh Hoang Nhu
Published: September 2021

Vibriosis in farmed animals is a serious threat to aquaculture worldwide. Using probiotics and anti-Vibrio antimicrobial substances in aquaculture systems can be a means of preventing Vibrio infections. Therefore, we aimed to characterize and compare 16 potential anti-Vibrio probiotics (Vi+) isolated from marine sponges and fish intestines collected from the Vietnam Sea, as well as an anti-Vibrio bacteriocin to fully explore their application potentials. 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed all Vi+ to be Bacillus species with different strain variants across two sample types. An obvious antimicrobial spectrum toward Gram-negative bacteria was observed from intestinal Vi+ compared to sponge-associated Vi+. The reason was the higher gene frequency of two antimicrobial compounds, non-ribosomal peptides (NRPS) and polyketide type-I (PKS-I) from intestinal Vi+ (66.7%) than sponge-associated Vi+ (14.3% and 0%, respectively). Additionally, a three-step procedure was performed to purify an anti-Vibrio bacteriocin produced by B. methylotrophicus NTBD1, including (i) solvent extraction of bacteriocin from cells, (ii) hydrophobic interaction chromatography, and (iii) reverse-phase HPLC. The bacteriocin had a molecular weight of ~2–5 kDa, was sensitive to proteolysis and thermally stable, and showed a broad antimicrobial spectrum, all of which are essential properties for promising feed additives. This study provides necessary information of the potential of probiotic Bacillus species with anti-Vibrio antimicrobial properties to study their further use in sustainable aquaculture.
Assessment of Bacillus subtilis Plasmid pLS20 Conjugation in the Absence of Quorum Sensing Repression
Authors: Mori Kotaro , Verrone Valeria , Amatsu Ryotaro , Fukui Kaho , Meijer Wilfried J. J. , Ishikawa Shu , Wipat Anil , Yoshida Ken-ichi
Published: September 2021

Bacillus subtilis conjugative plasmid pLS20 uses a quorum-sensing mechanism to control expression levels of its conjugation genes, involving the repressor RcopLS20, the anti-repressor RappLS20, and the signaling peptide Phr*pLS20. In previous studies, artificial overexpression of rappLS20 in the donor cells was shown to enhance conjugation efficiency. However, we found that the overexpression of rappLS20 led to various phenotypic traits, including cell aggregation and death, which might have affected the correct determination of the conjugation efficiency when determined by colony formation assay. In the current study, conjugation efficiencies were determined under different conditions using a two-color fluorescence-activated flow cytometry method and measuring a single-round of pLS20-mediated transfer of a mobilizable plasmid. Under standard conditions, the conjugation efficiency obtained by fluorescence-activated flow cytometry was 23-fold higher than that obtained by colony formation. Furthermore, the efficiency difference increased to 45-fold when rappLS20 was overexpressed.
Gene Analysis, Cloning, and Heterologous Expression of Protease from a Micromycete Aspergillus ochraceus Capable of Activating Protein C of Blood Plasma
Authors: Komarevtsev Sergei K. , Evseev Peter V. , Shneider Mikhail M. , Popova Elizaveta A. , Tupikin Alexey E. , Stepanenko Vasiliy N. , Kabilov Marsel R. , Shabunin Sergei V. , Osmolovskiy Alexander A. , Miroshnikov Konstantin A.
Published: September 2021

Micromycetes are known to secrete numerous enzymes of biotechnological and medical potential. Fibrinolytic protease-activator of protein C (PAPC) of blood plasma from micromycete Aspergillus ochraceus VKM-F4104D was obtained in recombinant form utilising the bacterial expression system. This enzyme, which belongs to the proteinase-K-like proteases, is similar to the proteases encoded in the genomes of Aspergillus fumigatus ATCC MYA-4609, A. oryzae ATCC 42149 and A. flavus 28. Mature PAPC-4104 is 282 amino acids long, preceded by the 101-amino acid propeptide necessary for proper folding and maturation. The recombinant protease was identical to the native enzyme from micromycete in terms of its biological properties, including an ability to hydrolyse substrates of activated protein C (pGlu-Pro-Arg-pNA) and factor Xa (Z-D-Arg-Gly-Arg-pNA) in conjugant reactions with human blood plasma. Therefore, recombinant PAPC-4104 can potentially be used in medicine, veterinary science, diagnostics, and other applications.
Submerged Bioreactor Production of Geobacillus stearothermophilus ATCC 7953 Spores for Use as Bioindicators to Validate Hydrogen Peroxide Inactivation Processes
Authors: Stier Philipp , Kulozik Ulrich
Published: September 2021

In the food and pharmaceutical industries, evaluating the sterilization performance preceding aseptic production processes is of central importance. In the case of hydrogen peroxide sterilization of solid surfaces, bioindicators (BI) consisting of spores of Bacillus atrophaeus or Geobacillus stearothermophilus are used to validate the effectiveness and efficiency of the inactivation procedure. Commercial production of G. stearothermophilus is commonly performed on agar plates, where cultivation and sporulation conditions are not well-defined. Therefore, the produced BI can vary in their resistance, which in turn creates unacceptable uncertainties in the evaluation of aseptic processes. Submerged production in the bioreactor would allow more control over sporulation conditions, while reducing production time, resistance variability, and avoidance of false-positive or false-negative test results. In addition, submerged production of G. stearothermophilus so far was a challenge to achieve sufficiently high spore concentrations for BI production. This study reports on the development of a method for submerged production of G. stearothermophilus spores (pH 7.0, 57 °C, 30% pO2) that can achieve 1.6 × 107 spores/mL with a resistance against 35% H2O2 at 25 °C of D25°C,35% H2O2 = 73 s. This resistance ranks within the range of commercially available BI, making the results directly transferable to industrial applications.
Influence of the Nanotube Morphology and Intercalated Species on the Sorption Properties of Hybrid Layered Vanadium Oxides: Application for Cesium Removal from Aqueous Streams
Authors: Alby Delhia , Salles Fabrice , Zajac Jerzy , Charnay Clarence
Published: September 2021

The present paper examines the impact that the nanotube morphology and organic or inorganic intercalated species may have on the cesium sorption by layered vanadium oxides prepared with the use of hexadecylamine as a structure-directing agent. The hybrid material represented by a chemical formula of (V2O5)(VO2)1.03(C16H36N)1.46(H2O)x was achieved through accelerated microwave-assisted synthesis carefully optimized to ensure the best compromise between the scroll-like morphology and the hydrophobic character. To enhance its dispersibility in water, this sample was subsequently modified by progressive replacement of the C16H36N+ units by NH4+ cations. The final materials represented a stacking of lamellar sheets with a worse scroll-like morphology. Both the optimization procedure and the template removal were monitored on the basis of scanning and transmission electronic microscopy, X-ray diffraction, infra-red spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and elemental analysis, supplemented by adequate simulations methods providing the reference IR spectra and XRD patterns for comparison or the textural parameters of the samples. The comparison of the cesium sorption from either a 4:1 ethanol–water mixture or aqueous solutions pointed toward the solubility of intercalated cations in the bulk solution as the main factor limiting their displacement from the interlayer space by the oncoming cesium ones. The sample obtained after 70% exchange with NH4+ exhibited a maximum sorption capacity of 1.4 mmol g−1 from CsNO3 aqueous solutions and its retention efficiency remained significant from low-concentration Cs solutions in river or sea water.
Atomistic Assessment of Solute-Solute Interactions during Grain Boundary Segregation
Authors: Matson Thomas P. , Schuh Christopher A.
Published: September 2021

Grain boundary solute segregation is becoming increasingly common as a means of stabilizing nanocrystalline alloys. Thermodynamic models for grain boundary segregation have recently revealed the need for spectral information, i.e., the full distribution of environments available at the grain boundary during segregation, in order to capture the essential physics of the problem for complex systems like nanocrystalline materials. However, there has been only one proposed method of extending spectral segregation models beyond the dilute limit, and it is based on simple, fitted parameters that are not atomistically informed. In this work, we present a physically motived atomistic method to measure the full distribution of solute-solute interaction energies at the grain boundaries in a polycrystalline environment. We then cast the results into a simple thermodynamic model, analyze the Al(Mg) system as a case study, and demonstrate strong agreement with physically rigorous hybrid Monte Carlo/molecular statics simulations. This approach provides a means of rapidly measuring key interactions for non-dilute grain boundary segregation for any system with an interatomic potential.
Green and Scalable Fabrication of Sandwich-like NG/SiOx/NG Homogenous Hybrids for Superior Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Guilong , Wei Yilin , Li Tiantian , Gu Yingying , Guo Donglei , Wu Naiteng , Qin Aimiao , Liu Xianming
Published: September 2021

SiOx is considered as a promising anode for next-generation Li-ions batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical capacity; however, mechanical damage originated from volumetric variation during cycles, low intrinsic conductivity, and the complicated or toxic fabrication approaches critically hampered its practical application. Herein, a green, inexpensive, and scalable strategy was employed to fabricate NG/SiOx/NG (N-doped reduced graphene oxide) homogenous hybrids via a freeze-drying combined thermal decomposition method. The stable sandwich structure provided open channels for ion diffusion and relieved the mechanical stress originated from volumetric variation. The homogenous hybrids guaranteed the uniform and agglomeration-free distribution of SiOx into conductive substrate, which efficiently improved the electric conductivity of the electrodes, favoring the fast electrochemical kinetics and further relieving the volumetric variation during lithiation/delithiation. N doping modulated the disproportionation reaction of SiOx into Si and created more defects for ion storage, resulting in a high specific capacity. Deservedly, the prepared electrode exhibited a high specific capacity of 545 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1, a high areal capacity of 2.06 mAh cm−2 after 450 cycles at 1.5 mA cm−2 in half-cell and tolerable lithium storage performance in full-cell. The green, scalable synthesis strategy and prominent electrochemical performance made the NG/SiOx/NG electrode one of the most promising practicable anodes for LIBs.
Nutrition Meets Social Marketing: Targeting Health Promotion Campaigns to Young Adults Using the Living and Eating for Health Segments
Authors: Dix Clare F. , Brennan Linda , Reid Mike , McCaffrey Tracy A. , Molenaar Annika , Barklamb Amy , Chin Shinyi , Truby Helen
Published: September 2021

Young adults are a key target age group for lifestyle behaviour change as adoption of healthier behaviours has the potential to impact long term health. This paper arises from a multi-disciplinary research project, Communicating Health, which aims to bridge the gap between nutritionists, media, and social marketing professionals to produce the tools that may be used to improve engagement with young adults and reduce the prevalence of obesity. The aim of this paper is to provide nuanced details of the psycho-behavioral characteristics of each of these Living and Eating for Health Segments (LEHS). The design and validation of the LEHS employed a four-stage mixed methods design underpinned by the Integrated Model of Behaviour Change and incorporating sequential formative, qualitative, and quantitative phases. This paper defines the psycho-behavioural characteristics of six distinct market segments: Lifestyle Mavens, Aspirational Healthy Eaters, Balanced-all Rounders, the Health Conscious, those Contemplating Another Day, and the Blissfully Unconcerned. These psycho-behavioural characteristics are important to understand to help build our capability in designing campaigns that are specifically and purposefully targeting these different market segments of young adults. Social marketing practices can enhance the utility of nutrition and health messages to young adults in order to engage them in adopting positive lifestyle change. Tailoring health promotions to the perceived needs of sub-groups or segments of young adults should lead to increased engagement and uptake of messages and cost-efficient use of health promotion budgets.
The Effects of Green Tea on Diabetes and Gut Microbiome in db/db Mice: Studies with Tea Extracts vs. Tea Powder
Authors: Wu Guojun , Liu Anna B. , Xu Yang , Wang Ying , Zhao Liping , Hara Yukihiko , Lam Yan Y. , Yang Chung S.
Published: September 2021

Green tea extracts and tea catechins have been shown to prevent or alleviate diabetes. The present study tests the hypothesis that green tea leaves in powder form (GTP), which also contain fiber and other water non-extractable materials, are more effective than the corresponding green tea extracts (GTE) in impeding the development of diabetes in db/db mice. Female db/db mice were treated with a diet containing 1% of GTE, 2% of GTE, 2% of GTP (with the same catechin content as 1% GTE) or 1% GTP. The 1% GTE group had lower food intake, water consumption, body weight and fasting blood glucose levels than the control group, while 2% GTP did not have any significant effect. Dietary 1% GTE also preserved β-cell insulin secretion. However, 1% GTP increased food intake, water consumption and blood glucose levels. Microbiome analysis with 16S rRNA gene V4 sequencing showed that the gut microbiota was modified by GTE and GTP, and a few bacterial guilds were associated with blood glucose levels. In the Random Forest regression model, the leading predictor of metabolic outcome was food consumption, followed by changes in some bacterial guilds. The results illustrate the importance of food consumption and gut microbiota in affecting the progression of diabetes.
Defining the Cholesterol Lowering Mechanism of Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Extract in HepG2 and Caco-2 Cells
Authors: Huang Yunying , Tocmo Restituto , Nauman Mirielle C. , Haughan Monica A. , Johnson Jeremy J.
Published: September 2021

Bergamot, a Mediterranean citrus fruit native to southern Italy, has been reported to have cholesterol-lowering properties; however, the mechanism of action is not well understood. Due to structural similarities with 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) inhibitors, it has been proposed that the phenolic compounds in bergamot may also inhibit HMGCR. Statins are widely used for their cholesterol-lowering properties; however, they are not universally well tolerated, suggesting there is a need to identify novel cholesterol-lowering strategies. In the present study, we investigated bergamot fruit extract (BFE) and its principal components (neoeriocitrin, naringin, neohesperidin, melitidin, and brutieridin) for their ability to regulate cholesterol levels in HepG2 and Caco-2 cells. BFE at increasing concentrations decreased the levels of total and free cholesterol in HepG2 cells. BFE and its constituents did not directly inhibit HMGCR activity. However, BFE and neohesperidin decreased HMGCR levels in HepG2 cells, suggesting that neohesperidin and BFE may downregulate HMGCR expression. An increase in AMP-kinase phosphorylation was observed in BFE and neohesperidin-treated cells. In Caco-2 cells, brutieridin exhibited a significant reduction in cholesterol uptake and decreased the level of Niemann-Pick C1 Like 1, an important cholesterol transporter. Taken together, our data suggest that the cholesterol-lowering activity of bergamot is distinct from statins. We hypothesize that BFE and its principal constituents lower cholesterol by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis and absorption.
Analysis of the Impact of Selected Vitamins Deficiencies on the Risk of Disability in Older People
Authors: Gana Wassim , De Luca Arnaud , Debacq Camille , Poitau Fanny , Poupin Pierre , Aidoud Amal , Fougère Bertrand
Published: September 2021

Vitamin deficiencies have a serious impact on healthy aging in older people. Many age-related disorders have a direct or indirect impact on nutrition, both in terms of nutrient assimilation and food access, which may result in vitamin deficiencies and may lead to or worsen disabilities. Frailty is characterized by reduced functional abilities, with a key role of malnutrition in its pathogenesis. Aging is associated with various changes in body composition that lead to sarcopenia. Frailty, aging, and sarcopenia all favor malnutrition, and poor nutritional status is a major cause of geriatric morbidity and mortality. In the present narrative review, we focused on vitamins with a significant risk of deficiency in high-income countries: D, C, and B (B6/B9/B12). We also focused on vitamin E as the main lipophilic antioxidant, synergistic to vitamin C. We first discuss the role and needs of these vitamins, the prevalence of deficiencies, and their causes and consequences. We then look at how these vitamins are involved in the biological pathways associated with sarcopenia and frailty. Lastly, we discuss the critical early diagnosis and management of these deficiencies and summarize potential ways of screening malnutrition. A focused nutritional approach might improve the diagnosis of nutritional deficiencies and the initiation of appropriate clinical interventions for reducing the risk of frailty. Further comprehensive research programs on nutritional interventions are needed, with a view to lowering deficiencies in older people and thus decreasing the risk of frailty and sarcopenia.
The Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Brain and Cognitive Function
Authors: Gudden Jip , Arias Vasquez Alejandro , Bloemendaal Mirjam
Published: September 2021

The importance of diet and the gut-brain axis for brain health and cognitive function is increasingly acknowledged. Dietary interventions are tested for their potential to prevent and/or treat brain disorders. Intermittent fasting (IF), the abstinence or strong limitation of calories for 12 to 48 h, alternated with periods of regular food intake, has shown promising results on neurobiological health in animal models. In this review article, we discuss the potential benefits of IF on cognitive function and the possible effects on the prevention and progress of brain-related disorders in animals and humans. We do so by summarizing the effects of IF which through metabolic, cellular, and circadian mechanisms lead to anatomical and functional changes in the brain. Our review shows that there is no clear evidence of a positive short-term effect of IF on cognition in healthy subjects. Clinical studies show benefits of IF for epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis on disease symptoms and progress. Findings from animal studies show mechanisms by which Parkinson’s disease, ischemic stroke, autism spectrum disorder, and mood and anxiety disorders could benefit from IF. Future research should disentangle whether positive effects of IF hold true regardless of age or the presence of obesity. Moreover, variations in fasting patterns, total caloric intake, and intake of specific nutrients may be relevant components of IF success. Longitudinal studies and randomized clinical trials (RCTs) will provide a window into the long-term effects of IF on the development and progress of brain-related diseases.
A Randomised, Controlled Trial: Effect of a Multi-Strain Fermented Milk on the Gut Microbiota Recovery after Helicobacter pylori Therapy
Authors: Guillemard Eric , Poirel Marion , Schäfer Florent , Quinquis Laurent , Rossoni Caroline , Keicher Christian , Wagner Frank , Szajewska Hania , Barbut Frédéric , Derrien Muriel , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: September 2021

Helicobacter pylori (Hp) eradication therapy alters gut microbiota, provoking gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms that could be improved by probiotics. The study aim was to assess the effect in Hp patients of a Test fermented milk containing yogurt and Lacticaseibacillus (L. paracasei CNCM I-1518 and I-3689, L. rhamnosus CNCM I-3690) strains on antibiotic associated diarrhea (AAD) (primary aim), GI-symptoms, gut microbiota, and metabolites. A randomised, double-blind, controlled trial was performed on 136 adults under 14-day Hp treatment, receiving the Test or Control product for 28 days. AAD and GI-symptoms were reported and feces analysed for relative and quantitative gut microbiome composition, short chain fatty acids (SCFA), and calprotectin concentrations, and viability of ingested strains. No effect of Test product was observed on AAD or GI-symptoms. Hp treatment induced a significant alteration in bacterial and fungal composition, a decrease of bacterial count and alpha-diversity, an increase of Candida and calprotectin, and a decrease of SCFA concentrations. Following Hp treatment, in the Test as compared to Control group, intra-subject beta-diversity distance from baseline was lower (padj = 0.02), some Enterobacteriaceae, including Escherichia-Shigella (padj = 0.0082) and Klebsiella (padj = 0.013), were less abundant, and concentrations of major SCFA (p = 0.035) and valerate (p = 0.045) were higher. Viable Lacticaseibacillus strains were detected during product consumption in feces. Results suggest that, in patients under Hp treatment, the consumption of a multi-strain fermented milk can induce a modest but significant faster recovery of the microbiota composition (beta-diversity) and of SCFA production and limit the increase of potentially pathogenic bacteria.
Adherence to Mediterranean Diet, Alcohol Consumption and Emotional Eating in Spanish University Students
Authors: López-Moreno Miguel , Garcés-Rimón Marta , Miguel Marta , Iglesias López María Teresa
Published: September 2021

(1) Introduction: The university period may increase the risk of different unhealthy habits, such as low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, high alcohol consumption and eating in response to specific emotions. The aim of this study was to detect early-risk alcohol consumption and alcohol dependence (ADS), the degree of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and emotional eating in university students of the Madrid community. (2) Methods: For each individual, anthropometric parameters, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), AUDIT-Consumption (AUDIT-C), the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) and the Emotional Eater Questionnaire (EEQ) were assessed. (3) Results: A total of 584 university students aged 20.5 (sex ratio = 0.39) were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. In total, 63.6% of students showed low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, with no differences by sex (64.3% female versus 61.5% male, p = 0.19). According to the AUDIT questionnaire, 26.2% of participants were categorized as high-risk drinkers and 7.7% as ADS. About 38.6% of the students were categorized as eating very emotionally or eating emotionally, and 37.2% were categorized as low emotional eaters. A weak positive correlation was observed between the EEQ and BMI in female students (rho= 0.15, p = 0.03). (4) Conclusions: University students in our sample showed a low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, an important high-risk alcohol consumption and low emotional eating.
What Babesia microti Is Now
Authors: Goethert Heidi K.
Published: September 2021

Parasites from diverse hosts morphologically identified as Babesia microti have previously been shown to belong to a paraphyletic species complex. With a growing number of reports of B. microti-like parasites from across the world, this paper seeks to report on the current knowledge of the diversity of this species complex. Phylogenetic analysis of 18S rDNA sequences obtained from GenBank shows that the diversity of the B. microti species complex has markedly increased and now encompasses at least five distinct clades. This cryptic diversity calls into question much of our current knowledge of the life cycle of these parasites, as many biological studies were conducted before DNA sequencing technology was available. In many cases, it is uncertain which B. microti-like parasite was studied because parasites from different clades may occur sympatrically and even share the same host. Progress can only be made if future studies are conducted with careful attention to parasite identification and PCR primer specificity.
The Distribution of Puumala orthohantavirus Genome Variants Correlates with the Regional Landscapes in the Trans-Kama Area of the Republic of Tatarstan
Authors: Davidyuk Yuriy N. , Kabwe Emmanuel , Shamsutdinov Anton F. , Knyazeva Anna V. , Martynova Ekaterina V. , Ismagilova Ruzilya K. , Trifonov Vladimir A. , Savitskaya Tatiana A. , Isaeva Guzel S. , Urbanowicz Richard A. , Khaiboullina Svetlana F. , Rizvanov Albert A. , Morzunov Sergey P.
Published: September 2021

In the European part of Russia, the highest number of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) cases are registered in the Volga Federal District (VFD), which includes the Republic of Tatarstan (RT). Puumala orthohantavirus (PUUV) is the main causative agent of HFRS identified in the RT. The goal of the current study is to analyze the genetic variations of the PUUV strains and possible presence of chimeric and reassortant variants among the PUUV strains circulating in bank vole populations in the Trans-Kama area of the RT. Complete S segment CDS as well as partial M and L segment coding nucleotide sequences were obtained from 40 PUUV-positive bank voles and used for the analysis. We found that all PUUV strains belonged to RUS genetic lineage and clustered in two subclades corresponding to the Western and Eastern Trans-Kama geographic areas. PUUV strains from Western Trans-Kama were related to the previously identified strain from Teteevo in the Pre-Kama area. It can be suggested that the PUUV strains were introduced to the Teteevo area as a result of the bank voles’ migration from Western Trans-Kama. It also appears that physical obstacles, including rivers, could be overcome by migrating rodents under favorable circumstances. Based on results of the comparative and phylogenetic analyses, we propose that bank vole distribution in the Trans-Kama area occurred upstream along the river valleys, and that watersheds could act as barriers for migrations. As a result, the diverged PUUV strains could be formed in closely located populations. In times of extensive bank vole population growth, happening every 3–4 years, some regions of watersheds may become open for contact between individual rodents from neighboring populations, leading to an exchange of the genetic material between divergent PUUV strains.
In Silico-Based Design and In Vivo Evaluation of an Anthranilic Acid Derivative as a Multitarget Drug in a Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome Model
Authors: González-Álvarez Héctor , Bravo-Jiménez Astrid , Martínez-Arellanes Matilda , Gamboa-Osorio Gabriela Odette , Chávez-Gutiérrez Edwin , González-Hernández Lino A. , Gallardo-Ignacio Karina , Quintana-Romero Osvaldo J. , Ariza-Castolo Armando , Guerra-Araiza Christian , Martino-Roaro Laura , Meneses-Ruiz Dulce María , Pinto-Almazán Rodolfo , Loza-Mejía Marco A.
Published: September 2021

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex disease that affects almost a quarter of the world’s adult population. In MetS, diabetes, obesity, hyperglycemia, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure are the most common disorders. Polypharmacy is the most used strategy for managing conditions related to MetS, but it has drawbacks such as low medication adherence. Multitarget ligands have been proposed as an interesting approach to developing drugs to treat complex diseases. However, suitable preclinical models that allow their evaluation in a context closer to a clinical situation of a complex disease are needed. From molecular docking studies, compound 1b, a 5-aminoanthranilic acid derivative substituted with 4′-trifluoromethylbenzylamino and 3′,4′-dimethoxybenzamide moieties, was identified as a potential multitarget drug, as it showed high in silico affinity against targets related to MetS, including PPAR-α, PPAR-γ, and HMG-CoA reductase. It was evaluated in a diet-induced MetS rat model and simultaneously lowered blood pressure, glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels after a 14-day treatment. No toxicity events were observed during an acute lethal dose evaluation test at 1500 mg/kg. Hence, the diet-induced MetS model is suitable for evaluating treatments for MetS, and compound 1b is an attractive starting point for developing multitarget drugs.
Chitin Nanofibril Application in Tympanic Membrane Scaffolds to Modulate Inflammatory and Immune Response
Authors: Danti Serena , Anand Shivesh , Azimi Bahareh , Milazzo Mario , Fusco Alessandra , Ricci Claudio , Zavagna Lorenzo , Linari Stefano , Donnarumma Giovanna , Lazzeri Andrea , Moroni Lorenzo , Mota Carlos , Berrettini Stefano
Published: September 2021

Chitin nanofibrils (CNs) are an emerging bio-based nanomaterial. Due to nanometric size and high crystallinity, CNs lose the allergenic features of chitin and interestingly acquire anti-inflammatory activity. Here we investigate the possible advantageous use of CNs in tympanic membrane (TM) scaffolds, as they are usually implanted inside highly inflamed tissue environment due to underlying infectious pathologies. In this study, the applications of CNs in TM scaffolds were twofold. A nanocomposite was used, consisting of poly(ethylene oxide terephthalate)/poly(butylene terephthalate) (PEOT/PBT) copolymer loaded with CN/polyethylene glycol (PEG) pre-composite at 50/50 (w/w %) weight ratio, and electrospun into fiber scaffolds, which were coated by CNs from crustacean or fungal sources via electrospray. The degradation behavior of the scaffolds was investigated during 4 months at 37 °C in an otitis-simulating fluid. In vitro tests were performed using cell types to mimic the eardrum, i.e., human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) for connective, and human dermal keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) for epithelial tissues. HMSCs were able to colonize the scaffolds and produce collagen type I. The inflammatory response of HaCaT cells in contact with the CN-coated scaffolds was investigated, revealing a marked downregulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines. CN-coated PEOT/PBT/(CN/PEG 50:50) scaffolds showed a significant indirect antimicrobial activity.
Y-Shaped Demultiplexer Photonic Circuits Based on Detuned Stubs: Application to Radiofrequency Domain
Authors: Mouadili Abdelkader , Khattou Soufyane , Amrani Madiha , El Boudouti El Houssaine , Fettouhi Noureddine , Talbi Abdelkrim , Akjouj Abdellatif , Djafari-Rouhani Bahram
Published: September 2021

We present a theoretical and experimental study of photonic demultiplexers based on detuned stubs. The demultiplexers consist of Y-shaped structures with one input line and two output lines. Two different types of structures are proposed to achieve a selective transfer of a single mode in one output line without disturbing the second one. (i) In the first platform each output contains two different stubs attached at two different sites (U-shaped resonators). We derive in closed form the geometrical parameters of the stubs to achieve a selected frequency in each line while keeping the other line unaffected. The frequency selection can be made on the basis of two different mechanisms, namely a Fano or an electromagnetic induced transparency (EIT) resonance. Consequently, different demultiplexing schemes can be designed by a combination of the two mechanisms, such as Fano-Fano, Fano-EIT or EIT-EIT. In particular, the width of the Fano or EIT resonances can become zero for an appropriate choice of the stubs’ lengths, giving rise to trapped modes also called bound in continuum states (BICs) with infinite quality factors. We also show that the crosstalk between the two outputs can reach minimum values around −45 dB. (ii) In the second platform, each output line contains a photonic comb with a defect stub. The latter is appropriately designed to filter one or a few frequencies in the bandgap of the photonic comb. The analytical calculations are performed with the help of the Green’s function method which enables us to derive the transmission and reflection coefficients as well as the density of states (DOS). These results are confirmed by experimental measurements using coaxial cables in the radio frequency domain.
A Ubiquitously Expressed UDP-Glucosyltransferase, UGT74J1, Controls Basal Salicylic Acid Levels in Rice
Authors: Tezuka Daisuke , Matsuura Hideyuki , Saburi Wataru , Mori Haruhide , Imai Ryozo
Published: September 2021

Salicylic acid (SA) is a phytohormone that regulates a variety of physiological and developmental processes, including disease resistance. SA is a key signaling component in the immune response of many plant species. However, the mechanism underlying SA-mediated immunity is obscure in rice (Oryza sativa). Prior analysis revealed a correlation between basal SA level and blast resistance in a range of rice varieties. This suggested that resistance might be improved by increasing basal SA level. Here, we identified a novel UDP-glucosyltransferase gene, UGT74J1, which is expressed ubiquitously throughout plant development. Mutants of UGT74J1 generated by genome editing accumulated high levels of SA under non-stressed conditions, indicating that UGT74J1 is a key enzyme for SA homeostasis in rice. Microarray analysis revealed that the ugt74j1 mutants constitutively overexpressed a set of pathogenesis-related (PR) genes. An inoculation assay demonstrated that these mutants had increased resistance against rice blast, but they also exhibited stunted growth phenotypes. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a rice mutant displaying SA overaccumulation.
Quantitative Real-Time PCR Assay for the Detection of Pectobacterium parmentieri, a Causal Agent of Potato Soft Rot
Authors: Lukianova Anna A. , Evseev Peter V. , Stakheev Alexander A. , Kotova Irina B. , Zavriev Sergey K. , Ignatov Alexander N. , Miroshnikov Konstantin A.
Published: September 2021

Pectobacterium parmentieri is a plant-pathogenic bacterium, recently attributed as a separate species, which infects potatoes, causing soft rot in tubers. The distribution of P. parmentieri seems to be global, although the bacterium tends to be accommodated to moderate climates. Fast and accurate detection systems for this pathogen are needed to study its biology and to identify latent infection in potatoes and other plant hosts. The current paper reports on the development of a specific and sensitive detection protocol based on a real-time PCR with a TaqMan probe for P. parmentieri, and its evaluation. In sensitivity assays, the detection threshold of this protocol was 102 cfu/mL on pure bacterial cultures and 102–103 cfu/mL on plant material. The specificity of the protocol was evaluated against P. parmentieri and more than 100 strains of potato-associated species of Pectobacterium and Dickeya. No cross-reaction with the non-target bacterial species, or loss of sensitivity, was observed. This specific and sensitive diagnostic tool may reveal a wider distribution and host range for P. parmentieri and will expand knowledge of the life cycle and environmental preferences of this pathogen.
Tannin-Furanic Foams Formed by Mechanical Agitation: Influence of Surfactant and Ingredient Ratios
Authors: Sepperer Thomas , Šket Primož , Petutschnigg Alexander , Hüsing Nicola
Published: September 2021

With increasing demand of alternatives to oil-based lightweight materials, the development of tannin-based foams is getting more and more attention. In this paper, an alternative to traditionally used solvent-evaporation in the production of tannin-foams is presented. Mixing the tannin-furanic resin with different amounts of ionic and non-ionic surfactants at high agitational speed allows for the formation of highly porous, mechanically stable tannin-foams. Investigations on the influence of surfactant type and ingredient ratios on the foaming behavior and properties of the final foams were conducted. Materials obtained via this route do present extraordinary compression resistance (about 0.8 MPa), good thermal insulation (40 mW/m·K) and are suitable as a wastewater treatment agent at the end-of-life. It was shown that during mechanical blowing, homogeneous cross-sections and almost perfectly round pores form, leading to the high compression resistance. Investigations by means of Fourier transform infrared and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy show that the milder reaction environment leads to more linear poly(furfuryl alcohol)-tannin chains. This new type of tannin foam allows for use in various different fields of application ranging from durable building insulation to wastewater treatment.
The Effect of Dialkyl Peroxide Crosslinking on the Properties of LLDPE and UHMWPE
Authors: Cardoso Pollyana S. M. , Ueki Marcelo M. , Barbosa Josiane D. V. , Garcia Filho Fabio C. , Lazarus Benjamin S. , Azevedo Joyce B.
Published: September 2021

Peroxide has been considered a chemical agent that can be used to tune the properties of polymeric materials. This research evaluated the influence of different concentrations of dialkyl peroxides on the mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The neat polymer, as well as those with the addition of 1% and 2% by mass of dialkyl peroxides, were subjected to compression molding and immersion in water for 1 h, under controlled temperatures of 90 °C. The values of the gel content found in the samples indicated that the addition of peroxide to the LLDPE and to the UHMWPE promoted the formation of a reticulated network. The structure obtained by the crosslinking led to less reorganization of the chains during the crystallization process, resulting in the formation of imperfect crystals and, consequently, in the reduction in melting temperatures, crystallization and enthalpy. The mechanical properties were altered with the presence of the crosslinker. The polymers presented had predominant characteristics of a ductile material, with the occurrence of crazing with an increased peroxide content.
Production of Rigid Polyurethane Foams Using Polyol from Liquefied Oil Palm Biomass: Variation of Isocyanate Indexes
Authors: Amran Umar Adli , Salleh Kushairi Mohd , Zakaria Sarani , Roslan Rasidi , Chia Chin Hua , Jaafar Sharifah Nabihah Syed , Sajab Mohd Shaiful , Mostapha Marhaini
Published: September 2021

Development of polyurethane foam (PUF) containing bio-based components is a complex process that requires extensive studies. This work reports on the production of rigid PUFs from polyol obtained via liquefaction of oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) biomass with different isocyanate (NCO) indexes. The effect of the NCO index on the physical, chemical and compressive properties of the liquefied EFB-based PUF (EFBPUF) was evaluated. The EFBPUFs showed a unique set of properties at each NCO index. Foaming properties had affected the apparent density and cellular morphology of the EFBPUFs. Increasing NCO index had increased the crosslink density and dimensional stability of the EFBPUFs via formation of isocyanurates, which had also increased their thermal stability. Combination of both foaming properties and crosslink density of the EFBPUFs had influenced their respective compressive properties. The EFBPUF produced at the NCO index of 120 showed the optimum compressive strength and released the least toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN) gas under thermal degradation. The normalized compressive strength of the EFBPUF at the NCO index of 120 is also comparable with the strength of the PUF produced using petrochemical polyol.
A Novel Trace-Level Ammonia Gas Sensing Based on Flexible PAni-CoFe2O4 Nanocomposite Film at Room Temperature
Authors: Alharthy Rima D. , Saleh Ahmed
Published: September 2021

In this study, we developed a new chemi-resistive, flexible and selective ammonia (NH3) gas sensor. The sensor was prepared by depositing thin film of polyaniline-cobalt ferrite (PAni-CoFe2O4) nanocomposite on flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) through an in situ chemical oxidative polymerization method. The prepared PAni-CoFe2O4 nanocomposite and flexible PET-PAni-CoFe2O4 sensor were evaluated for their thermal stability, surface morphology and materials composition. The response to NH3 gas of the developed sensor was examined thoroughly in the range of 1–50 ppm at room temperature. The sensor with 50 wt% CoFe2O4 NPs content showed an optimum selectivity to NH3 molecules, with a 118.3% response towards 50 ppm in 24.3 s response time. Furthermore, the sensor showed good reproducibility, ultra-low detection limit (25 ppb) and excellent flexibility. In addition, the relative humidity effect on the sensor performance was investigated. Consequently, the flexible PET-PAni-CoFe2O4 sensor is a promising candidate for trace-level on-site sensing of NH3 in wearable electronic or portable devices.