bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bscl2 Deficiency Does Not Directly Impair the Innate Immune Response in a Murine Model of Generalized Lipodystrophy
Authors: Roumane Ahlima , Mcilroy George D. , Balci Arda , Han Weiping , Delibegović Mirela , Baldassarre Massimiliano , Newsholme Philip , Rochford Justin J.
Published: January 2021

Congenital Generalized Lipodystrophy type 2 (CGL2) is the most severe form of lipodystrophy and is caused by mutations in the BSCL2 gene. Affected patients exhibit a near complete lack of adipose tissue and suffer severe metabolic disease. A recent study identified infection as a major cause of death in CGL2 patients, leading us to examine whether Bscl2 loss could directly affect the innate immune response. We generated a novel mouse model selectively lacking Bscl2 in the myeloid lineage (LysM-B2KO) and also examined the function of bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) isolated from global Bscl2 knockout (SKO) mice. LysM-B2KO mice failed to develop lipodystrophy and metabolic disease, providing a model to study the direct role of Bscl2 in myeloid lineage cells. Lipopolysaccharide-mediated stimulation of inflammatory cytokines was not impaired in LysM-B2KO mice or in BMDM isolated from either LysM-B2KO or SKO mice. Additionally, intracellular fate and clearance of bacteria in SKO BMDM challenged with Staphylococcus aureus was indistinguishable from that in BMDM isolated from littermate controls. Overall, our findings reveal that selective Bscl2 deficiency in macrophages does not critically impact the innate immune response to infection. Instead, an increased susceptibility to infection in CGL2 patients is likely to result from severe metabolic disease.
Post-Operative Permanent Hypoparathyroidism and Preoperative Vitamin D Prophylaxis
Authors: Kannan Tara , Foster Yasmin , Ho David J. , Gelzinnis Scott J. , Merakis Michael , Wynne Katie , Balogh Zsolt J. , Bendinelli Cino
Published: January 2021

Permanent hypoparathyroidism, a feared thyroidectomy complication, leads to significant patient morbidity, medical treatment, and monitoring. This study explores whether preoperative high-dose vitamin D loading decreases the incidence of permanent hypoparathyroidism. In a subgroup analysis, the study examines the predictive utility of day 1 parathyroid hormone (PTH) in permanent hypoparathyroidism. Patients (n = 150) were previously recruited in the VItamin D In Thyroidectomy (VIDIT) trial, a multicentre, randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluating the role of 300,000 IU cholecalciferol administered orally a week before total thyroidectomy. Patients were contacted postoperatively beyond six months through a telephonic questionnaire. The primary outcome was permanent hypoparathyroidism, strictly defined as the need for activated vitamin D six months postoperatively. Out of 150 patients, 130 (86.7%) were contactable. Permanent hypoparathyroidism occurred in 11/130 (8.5%) patients, with a lower incidence of 5.3% (3/57) in the cholecalciferol group compared to 11% (8/73) in the placebo group; however, this was non-significant (p = 0.34). In a subgroup analysis, no relationship between day 1 PTH level and the incidence of permanent hypoparathyroidism was found (p ≥ 0.99). There was a lower rate of permanent hypoparathyroidism in the cholecalciferol group, which was not significant. The predictive utility of day 1 postoperative PTH levels may be limited to transient hypoparathyroidism.
Multi-Organ Involvement in COVID-19: Beyond Pulmonary Manifestations
Authors: Thakur Vikram , Ratho Radha Kanta , Kumar Pradeep , Bhatia Shashi Kant , Bora Ishani , Mohi Gursimran Kaur , Saxena Shailendra K , Devi Manju , Yadav Dhananjay , Mehariya Sanjeet
Published: January 2021

Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19), due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become an on-going global health emergency affecting over 94 million cases with more than 2 million deaths globally. Primarily identified as atypical pneumonia, it has developed into severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a multi-organ dysfunction with associated fatality. Ever since its emergence, COVID-19 with its plethora of clinical presentations has signalled its dynamic nature and versatility of the disease process. Being a disease with droplet transmission has now assumed the proportion of a suspected airborne nature which, once proved, poses a Herculean task to control. Because of the wide distribution of the human angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (hACE2) receptors, known for its transmission, we envisage its multiorgan spread and extensive disease distribution. Thus, an extensive review of the extrapulmonary organotropism of SARS-CoV-2 with organ-specific pathophysiology and associated manifestations like dermatological complications, myocardial dysfunction, gastrointestinal symptoms, neurologic illnesses, hepatic and renal injury is needed urgently. The plausible mechanism of site-specific viral invasion is also discussed to give a comprehensive understanding of disease complexity, to help us to focus on research priorities and therapeutic strategies to counter the disease progression. A note on the latest advancements in vaccine research will enlighten the scientific world and equip it for better preparedness.
Uric Acid and Hypertension: Prognostic Role and Guide for Treatment
Authors: Piani Federica , Cicero Arrigo F. G. , Borghi Claudio
Published: January 2021

The relationship between serum uric acid (SUA) and hypertension has been a subject of increasing interest since the 1870 discovery by Frederick Akbar Mahomed. Several epidemiological studies have shown a strong association between high SUA levels and the presence or the development of hypertension. Genetic analyses have found that xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) genetic polymorphisms are associated with hypertension. However, genetic studies on urate transporters and Mendelian randomization studies failed to demonstrate a causal relationship between SUA and hypertension. Results from clinical trials on the role of urate-lowering therapy in the management of patients with hypertension are not uniform. Our study sought to analyze the prognostic and therapeutic role of SUA in the hypertensive disease, from uric acid (UA) biology to clinical trials on urate-lowering therapies.
Roads in the Southwestern Amazon, State of Acre, between 2007 and 2019
Authors: Nascimento Eric de Souza , Silva Sonaira Souza da , Bordignon Leandra , Melo Antonio Willian Flores de , Brandão Amintas , Souza Carlos M. , Silva Junior Celso H. L.
Published: January 2021

Over the past 40 years, roads have been the main driver behind the State of Acre’s occupation and development. However, the expansion of roads, has often been associated with the advance of deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and social conflicts. There are no up-to-date data available on the current extent of Acre’s road network nor its environmental and socioenvironmental impacts. In this study, we updated the State of Acre’s road network map for the period 2007 to 2019 through the visual interpretation of 153 Landsat images (5, 7, and 8) at a scale of 1:50,000. To estimate the impact of roads, we measured the distribution of roads in municipalities and in different land tenure categories and calculated the correlation between roads and annual deforestation. Up to 2019, we estimated 19,620 km of roads, of which 92% were unofficial roads, 6% federal roads, and 2% state roads. The roads increased at an average annual rate of 590 km year−1. The most significant advance in road length between 2007 and 2019 was in protected areas (240%), followed by public lands (68%) and settlement projects (66%). We recommend monitoring of the road network to understand the landscape’s evolution and support actions against illicit environmental and socioenvironmental impacts.
Changes in Vegetation of Flooded Savannas Subject to Cattle Grazing and Fire in Plains of Colombia
Authors: Herrera Alejandro Huertas , Ballera Brigitte L. G. Baptiste , Toro-Manríquez Mónica D. R. , Lencinas María V. , Martínez Pastur Guillermo J. , Ramírez Hugoberto Huertas
Published: January 2021

Cattle grazing and fire are common types of management on natural ecosystems, generating several threats to the conservation of native vegetation (e.g., changes in species richness, cover, and abundance, mainly of bovine-palatable species). In this work, we analysed the response of the structure and composition of vegetation managed with different cattle stocking rates and fire in the savanna ecosystems of Colombia. The study was located in the eastern area of the Llanos region, where savannas were subjected to grazing and burning. Regarding grazing, we classified the area according to the cattle stocking rate (Bos indicus ~300 kg): NG = non-grazed, LS = low stocking rate (0.5 ind ha−1 yr−1), and HS = high stocking rate (1.0 ind ha−1 yr−1). Controlled artificial burning was applied in all the area at the beginning of the study, and surveys were conducted in the same plots at pre-burn (t0) and four post-burn times (t1, t2, t3, t4), at 15, 45, 75 and 105 days after burning. Vegetation composition (species list, life-form, palatability) and structure (bare soil and vascular plant ground covers, species height and richness) were recorded at each sampling. Data were compared through ANOVAs and multivariate analyses. We found 53 species in total: 26 in the pre-burn treatment and 44 in the post-burn treatments, detecting an increase of 18 species considering all treatments. Seven natives and two exotic species represented the dominant cover (>50%). LS and HS had the highest number of palatable species in t0 (seven species) compared with NG (two species), but this became similar after burning (14 species in NG, 12 in LS, and 11 in HS). ANOVAs and multivariate analyses showed that plant assemblages were significantly different according to the grazing treatment, and more homogeneous in pre-burn than in post-burn periods. Cattle grazing favored higher covers of dominant palatable species (e.g., Axonopus purpusii) compared with NG, but many native species with high palatability only recovered within the system after burning. In the context of the current management proposals, the search for new alternatives other than intensive cattle grazing and burning is needed to reconcile human production activities, international commitments against climate change and biodiversity conservation in the savanna landscapes.
“Sucha Góra” (“Trockenberg”)—The Triangulation Point Doomed to Be Forgotten?
Authors: Lamparska Marzena , Danch Mirosław
Published: January 2021

The current study documents the importance of research on preserved artifacts which were previously used to take measurements of the Earth, and their importance for cultural heritage. The article reviewed the available source documents presenting the history of the astrogeodetic control point of Sucha Góra-Trockenberg as a monument of the first order triangulation network, preserved in cartographic materials and as the starting point of local geodetic networks, used in mining until 2000 in the so-called Upper Silesian Coal Basin, located in the territory of Poland and the Czech Republic. In order to determine the history of the triangulation work and the dates that the geographic coordinates of the peak were determined, field journals and other available materials were analyzed. The interesting location of this astrogeodetic control point, being in the vicinity of a UNESCO site, as well as its location in a forest and park complex, justify undertaking activities related to the conservation and promotion of this cultural heritage site.
Soil Natural Recovery Process and Fagus orientalis Lipsky Seedling Growth after Timber Extraction by Wheeled Skidder
Authors: Tavankar Farzam , Picchio Rodolfo , Nikooy Mehrdad , Jourgholami Meghdad , Naghdi Ramin , Latterini Francesco , Venanzi Rachele
Published: January 2021

The growth and quality of natural seedlings are important goals of forest management in uneven-aged high stands. In this study, the recovery process of the physical and chemical properties of soil, as well as growth variables of beech seedlings on the skid trails after skidding operations in three time periods (10, 20, and 30 years) were investigated in the Hyrcanian forests of Iran. Results revealed that the soil chemical properties (organic C, total N, and pH) were fully recovered after 20 years, while soil physical properties (bulk density, porosity, and penetration resistance) were not yet fully recovered even after 30 years. The values of growth characteristics (stem and root system) and the quality index of beech seedlings were not statistically different from those of the control area ones after 20 years. According to our findings, the process of recovering soil characteristics after forest operations is long and takes more than 30 years. Considering the effect that soil compaction can have on seedling establishment and growth, proper planning of the forest operation is needed to limit the negative effects of forest operations, which meets the requirements of sustainable forest management. We suggest designing skid trails with a minimum distance of 140 m from each other and with a longitudinal slope of less than 15%, in compliance with the principles of best management practice (BMP).
Optimization of Chitosan Glutaraldehyde-Crosslinked Beads for Reactive Blue 4 Anionic Dye Removal Using a Surface Response Methodology
Authors: Galan Johanna , Trilleras Jorge , Zapata Paula A. , Arana Victoria A. , Grande-Tovar Carlos David
Published: January 2021

The use of dyes at an industrial level has become problematic, since the discharge of dye effluents into water disturbs the photosynthetic activity of numerous aquatic organisms by reducing the penetration of light and oxygen, in addition to causing carcinogenic diseases and mutagenic effects in humans, as well as alterations in different ecosystems. Chitosan (CS) is suitable for removing anionic dyes since it has favorable properties, such as acquiring a positive charge and a typical macromolecular structure of polysaccharides. In this study, the optimization of CS beads crosslinked with glutaraldehyde (GA) for the adsorption of reactive blue dye 4 (RB4) in an aqueous solution was carried out. In this sense, the response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to evaluate the concentration of CS, GA, and sodium hydroxide on the swelling degree in the GA-crosslinked CS beads. In the same way, RSM was applied to optimize the adsorption process of the RB4 dye as a function of the initial pH of the solution, initial concentration of the dye, and adsorbent dose. The crosslinking reaction was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The design described for the swelling degree showed an R2 (coefficient of determination) adjusted of 0.8634 and optimized concentrations (CS 3.3% w/v, GA 1.7% v/v, and NaOH 1.3 M) that were conveniently applied with a concentration of CS at 3.0% w/v to decrease the viscosity and facilitate the formation of the beads. In the RB4 dye adsorption design, an adjusted R2 (0.8280) with good correlation was observed, where the optimized conditions were: pH = 2, adsorbent dose 0.6 g, and initial concentration of RB4 dye 5 mg/L. The kinetic behavior and the adsorption isotherm allowed us to conclude that the GA-crosslinked CS beads’ adsorption mechanism was controlled mainly by chemisorption interactions, demonstrating its applicability in systems that require the removal of contaminants with similar structures to the model presented.
(E)-3-(4-Chlorophenyl)-1-(2-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-propen-1-one
Authors: Bailey Nicholas , Atanes Alaina , Ashburn Bradley O.
Published: January 2021

Natural products known as chalcones show promise as chemotherapeutic agents for the neglected tropical disease known as leishmaniasis. Our objective is to synthesize new targets of opportunity that may lead to better treatments of this debilitating disease. Claisen-Schmidt condensation of 4-chlorobenzaldehyde with 2′-fluoro-4′-methoxyacetophenone using aqueous sodium hydroxide in ethanol yielded the novel compound (E)-3-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-propen-1-one. The product was obtained in good yield and purity after recrystallization from ethyl acetate/hexane. With the known antiparasitic properties of halogenated chalcones, this novel compound is suitable for antileishmanial activity study.
Casting over Metal Method Used in Manufacturing Hybrid Cobalt-Chromium Dental Prosthetic Frameworks Assembles
Authors: Uriciuc Willi Andrei , Vermesan Horatiu , Tiuc Ancuta Elena , Ilea Aranka , Bosca Adina Bianca , Popa Catalin Ovidiu
Published: January 2021

Cobalt–chromium (Co–Cr) alloys are the most widely used materials for removable and fixed dental prosthetic frameworks. The fitting accuracy between these components in dental prosthetic frameworks assembles (DPFAs) is largely influenced by the manufacturing method. This study presents a novel manufacturing method that combined two common techniques for obtaining one single framework: casting of Co–Cr inserts on top of parts previously manufactured by selective laser melting (SLM) of Co–Cr powder (CoM). Horizontal (n = 4) and vertical (n = 3) surfaces were microscopically analyzed (n = 770 count sum). The results revealed a high precision of the process and high fitting accuracy between the hybrid frameworks. The average distance measured between the frameworks in joined position was 41.08 ± 7.56 µm. In conclusion, the manufacturing of Co–Cr alloys DPFA using the CoM method reduced the deformation of hybrid frameworks and improved the joining accuracy between them.
Experimental Investigation on the Wear and Damage Behaviors of Machined Wheel-Rail Materials under Dry Sliding Conditions
Authors: Liu Peijie , Quan Yanming , Wan Junjie , Yu Lang
Published: January 2021

Rail grinding and wheel turning can effectively remove surface defects and unevenness, which is a crucial process for the safe and smooth operation of trains. Machined surface integrity of wheel/rail materials significantly influences their tribological property. In this study, firstly, the rail blocks were ground via a cylindrical grinding machine, and the wheel rings were turned by a computer numerical control (CNC) lathe with varied parameters. Then, the sliding wear and damage characteristics of the machined wheel/rail samples under dry conditions were studied by virtue of a block-on-ring tribometer. The results show that the surface microhardness of the ground rail blocks is larger than that of wheel rings, while the surface roughness and the thickness of the subsurface plastic deformation layer (SPDL) of rail blocks are much smaller than those of wheel rings. After sliding, the surface microhardness of wheel/rail samples increases remarkably. The thickness of the SPDL, the wear loss, and the increase degree of surface microhardness of rail blocks are larger than those of wheel rings. Surface microhardness, roughness and the SPDL of the machined wheel/rail samples impose a combined influence on the anti-wear property, and the tribological pair with proper initial surface roughness and microhardness engenders the smallest amount of total wear loss.
Sulfur Detection in Soil by Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Assisted by Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Gazeli Odhisea , Stefas Dimitrios , Couris Stelios
Published: January 2021

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is used for the detection and determination of sulfur content in some organic soil samples. The most suitable sulfur spectral lines for such tasks were found to occur in the vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) spectral region and they were used for the construction of calibration curves. For the analysis, both univariate and multivariate statistical models were employed. The results obtained by the different analysis techniques are evaluated and compared. The present study demonstrates both the applicability and efficiency of LIBS for fast sulfur detection in soil matrices when aided by multivariate analysis methods improving the accuracy and extending the potential use of LIBS in such applications.
Assessment of Morphological, Physical, Thermal, and Thermal Conductivity Properties of Polypropylene/Lignosulfonate Blends
Authors: Schneider Mariane , Finimundi Noriê , Podzorova Maria , Pantyukhov Petr , Poletto Matheus
Published: January 2021

Lignosulfonate is a cheap material available in large quantities obtained as a byproduct of paper and cellulose. In this work, blends of polypropylene (PP) and sodium lignosulfonate (LGNa) were developed to evaluate the potential use of lignosulfonate as a lightweight, thermal insulation and flame retardant material. The blends were obtained by mixing in a torque rheometer and molded after compression. The blend proprieties were evaluated by physical, morphological, thermal, thermal conductivity, and flammability tests. The measured values were compared with theoretical models. The results indicated that a heterogeneous blend with a higher number of separated domains is formed when the LGNa content increases from 10 to 40 wt%. In addition, the density and thermal conductivity coefficient of the blends studied are not affected by the addition of LGNa. However, when the LGNa content in the blend exceeds 20 wt% the thermal stability and flame retardant proprieties are considerably reduced. The theoretical models based on the rule of mixtures showed a good agreement with the experimental values obtained from blend density, thermal conductivity, and thermal stability. In general, lignosulfonate tested in this work shows potential to be used as a reactive component in polymer blends.
Synthesis of Sodium Cobalt Fluoride/Reduced Graphene Oxide (NaCoF3/rGO) Nanocomposites and Investigation of Their Electrochemical Properties as Cathodes for Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Oh Jiwoong , Jang Jooyoung , Lim Eunho , Jo Changshin , Chun Jinyoung
Published: January 2021

In this study, sodium cobalt fluoride (NaCoF3)/reduced graphene oxide (NCF/rGO) nanocomposites were fabricated through a simple one-pot solvothermal process and their electrochemical performance as cathodes for Li-ion batteries (LIBs) was investigated. The NCF nanoclusters (NCs) on the composites (300–500 nm in size) were formed by the assembly of primary nanoparticles (~20 nm), which were then incorporated on the surface of rGO. This morphology provided NCF NCs with a large surface area for efficient ion diffusion and also allowed for close contact with the conductive matrix to promote rapid electron transfer. As a cathode for LIBs, the NCF/rGO electrode achieved a high reversible capacity of 465 mAh·g−1 at 20 mA·g−1 via the conversion reaction, and this enhancement represented more than five times the reversible capacity of the bare NCF electrode. Additionally, the NCF/rGO electrode exhibited both better specific capacity and cyclability within the current density testing range (from 20 to 200 mA·g−1), compared with those of the bare NCF electrode.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Study on the Drilling Process of 7075-t6 Aerospace Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Luo Haitao , Fu Jia , Wu Tingke , Chen Ning , Li Huadong
Published: January 2021

A finite element model for setting drilling conditions is established. The effect of feed speed and spindle speed on the drilling process was studied. In the test phase, drilling tests were conducted using three different feed speeds (60, 100, and 140 mm/min) and three different spindle speeds (800, 1000, and 1200 rpm). The correctness of the finite element model was verified by comparing the experimental and numerical simulation data. The results show that the axial force and torque increase significantly with the increase of feed speed, while the axial force and torque increase less as the spindle speed increases. The numerical simulation results show that the temperature of the cutting edge increases as the feed speed increases. Increasing the rotating speed increases the formation of chip curl. When the working conditions are high rotating speed and low feed, the tool wear is reduced, and the machining quality is better. The numerical simulation results obtained for the chip forming effect are similar to the experimental data. In addition, the simulation results show the generation of burrs. A comparison of the finite element simulation and experimental data leads to an in-depth understanding of the drilling process and ability to optimize subsequent drilling parameters, which provide reliable process parameters and technical guarantees for the successful implementation of drilling technology for space suspended ball structures.
An In Vitro–In Vivo Simulation Approach for the Prediction of Bioequivalence
Authors: Vlachou Marilena , Karalis Vangelis
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study was to develop a new in vitro–in vivo simulation (IVIVS) approach in order to predict the outcome of a bioequivalence study. The predictability of the IVIVS procedure was evaluated through its application in the development process of a new generic product of amlodipine/irbesartan/hydrochlorothiazide. The developed IVIVS methodology is composed of three parts: (a) mathematical description of in vitro dissolution profiles, (b) mathematical description of in vivo kinetics, and (c) development of joint in vitro–in vivo simulations. The entire programming was done in MATLAB® and all created scripts were validated through other software. The IVIVS approach can be implemented for any number of subjects, clinical design, variability and can be repeated for thousands of times using Monte Carlo techniques. The probability of success of each scenario is recorded and finally, an overall assessment is made in order to select the most suitable batch. Alternatively, if the IVIVS shows reduced probability of BE success, the R&D department is advised to reformulate the product. In this study, the IVIVS approach predicted successfully the BE outcome of the three drugs. During the development of generics, the IVIVS approach can save time and expenses.
Absorption of Nitrogen during Pulsed Wave L-PBF of 17-4 PH Steel
Authors: Brown Ben , Newkirk Joseph , Liou Frank
Published: January 2021

In the fabrication of 17-4 PH by laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) the well-documented occurrence of large amounts of retained austenite can be attributed to an elevated concentration of nitrogen present in the material. While the effects of continuous wave (CW) laser processing on in-situ nitrogen absorption characteristics have been evaluated, power modulated pulsed wave (PW) laser processing effects have not. In this study the effects of PW L-PBF processing of 17-4 PH on nitrogen absorption, phase composition, and mechanical performance are explored using commercially available PW L-PBF equipment and compared to samples produced by CW L-PBF. PW L-PBF samples fabricated in cover gas conditions with varying amounts of nitrogen demonstrated reduced absorption levels compared to those produced by CW L-PBF with no effects on phase composition and minimal effects on mechanical performance.
The Accuracy of Finishing WEDM of Inconel 718 Turbine Disc Fir Tree Slots
Authors: Burek Jan , Babiarz Robert , Buk Jarosław , Sułkowicz Paweł , Krupa Krzysztof
Published: January 2021

Servicing aircraft engines sometimes requires manufacturing only a single piece of a given part. Manufacturing a turbine disc using traditional methods is uneconomical. It is necessary to use a different machining method recommended for small lot production. One of the proposed methods is WEDM (wire electrical discharge machining). The article presents the results of the research on finishing WEDM of Inconel 718 turbine disc fir tree slots. The influence of infeed, mean gap voltage, peak current, pulse off-time, and discharge energy on the shape accuracy, surface roughness, microcracks, and the white layer thickness were determined. Mathematical models were developed based on the DoE (Design of Experiment) analysis. The statistical significance of the models was verified with the ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) test. The machining parameters control methods that allow achieving the required shape accuracy, surface roughness, and surface layer condition were presented. The obtained surface roughness was Ra = 0.84 μm, the shape accuracy of the slot in the normal-to-feed direction was Δd = 0.009 μm, the profile shape accuracy was Δr = 0.033 μm, and the thickness of recast (white) layer was approximately 5 μm.
Utilizing the Food–Pathogen Metabolome to Putatively Identify Biomarkers for the Detection of Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli (STEC) from Spinach
Authors: Jadhav Snehal R. , Shah Rohan M. , Karpe Avinash V. , Barlow Robert S. , McMillan Kate E. , Colgrave Michelle L. , Beale David J.
Published: January 2021

Shiga toxigenic E. coli (STEC) are an important cause of foodborne disease globally with many outbreaks linked to the consumption of contaminated foods such as leafy greens. Existing methods for STEC detection and isolation are time-consuming. Rapid methods may assist in preventing contaminated products from reaching consumers. This proof-of-concept study aimed to determine if a metabolomics approach could be used to detect STEC contamination in spinach. Using untargeted metabolic profiling, the bacterial pellets and supernatants arising from bacterial and inoculated spinach enrichments were investigated for the presence of unique metabolites that enabled categorization of three E. coli risk groups. A total of 109 and 471 metabolite features were identified in bacterial and inoculated spinach enrichments, respectively. Supervised OPLS-DA analysis demonstrated clear discrimination between bacterial enrichments containing different risk groups. Further analysis of the spinach enrichments determined that pathogen risk groups 1 and 2 could be easily discriminated from the other groups, though some clustering of risk groups 1 and 2 was observed, likely representing their genomic similarity. Biomarker discovery identified metabolites that were significantly associated with risk groups and may be appropriate targets for potential biosensor development. This study has confirmed that metabolomics can be used to identify the presence of pathogenic E. coli likely to be implicated in human disease.
Iron(II)oxalate Dihydrate—Humboldtine: Synthesis, Spectroscopic and Structural Properties of a Versatile Precursor for High Pressure Research
Authors: Müller Harald , Bourcet Léa , Hanfland Michael
Published: January 2021

Iron(II)oxalate dihydrate FeC2O4 × 2 H2O—humboldtine is not only an important synthetic intermediate, but also a key building block for the preparation of various advanced materials. Interestingly, FeC2O4 × 2 H2O can be transformed readily into phase-pure siderite FeCO3. The importance of siderite for earth sciences, in particular for the understanding of the deep carbon cycle of our planet, is paramount. The availability of high-quality single crystals of FeC2O4 × 2 H2O is crucial for diffraction or spectroscopic studies at high pressure. The present article describes a versatile synthetic approach to single crystals of FeC2O4 × 2 H2O and its deuterated analogue starting from metallic iron together with a complete characterization of the products obtained. The same protocol has been employed successfully for the preparation of 57FeC2O4 × 2 H2O, as required for Möβbauer spectroscopy. In addition, the pressure-dependence of the crystal and molecular structure of the title compound was investigated up to p ≥ 20 GPa.
The Performance Prediction Model of W-Shaped Hydrocyclone Based on Experimental Research
Authors: Jiang Lanyue , Liu Peikun , Zhang Yuekan , Yang Xinghua , Li Xiaoyu , Zhang Yulong , Wang Hui
Published: January 2021

Fine particles misclassification in the underflow (UF) of grinding-classification hydrocyclones might result in ore over-grinding, leading to both reduced ball mill throughput and metal recovery. In the current research, a W-shaped hydrocyclone is proposed, to efficiently decrease the misclassification of fine particles in UF. The effects of the following parameters (including cross-effects) on W-shaped hydrocyclone classification performance were studied experimentally—inlet pressure, apex diameter, and vortex finder insertion depth and diameter. A mathematical model on the basis of the response surface method was established for the prediction of W-shaped hydrocyclone separation performance. The significance of the effects of the factors on the fine particle content in UF decreased in the following order—vortex finder diameter > inlet pressure > vortex finder insertion depth > apex diameter. The significance of influences of different factors on quality effectively decreased in the following order—inlet pressure > vortex finder insertion depth > vortex finder diameter > apex diameter. The significance of factor effects on the quantity efficiency decreased in the following order—inlet pressure > vortex finder insertion depth > apex diameter > vortex finder diameter. All influence factors were considered to obtain the optimal parameter configuration—an apex diameter of 0.14 D, a vortex finder diameter of 0.31 D, an insertion depth of 1.87 D, and an inlet pressure of 0.18 MPa. The corresponding optimal result was a −25 μm particle content (C−25) in UF of 11.92%, a quality efficiency of 42.48%, and a quantity efficiency of 98.99%.
Graphene Oxide Derivatives and Their Nanohybrid Structures for Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Small Molecules
Authors: Kim Seung-Woo , Kwon Sunbum , Kim Young-Kwan
Published: January 2021

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) has been considered as one of the most powerful analytical tools for mass spectrometry (MS) analysis of large molecular weight compounds such as proteins, nucleic acids, and synthetic polymers thanks to its high sensitivity, high resolution, and compatibility with high-throughput analysis. Despite these advantages, MALDI cannot be applied to MS analysis of small molecular weight compounds (<500 Da) because of the matrix interference in low mass region. Therefore, numerous efforts have been devoted to solving this issue by using metal, semiconductor, and carbon nanomaterials for MALDI time-of-flight MS (MALDI-TOF-MS) analysis instead of organic matrices. Among those nanomaterials, graphene oxide (GO) is of particular interest considering its unique and highly tunable chemical structures composed of the segregated sp2 carbon domains surrounded by sp3 carbon matrix. Chemical modification of GO can precisely tune its physicochemical properties, and it can be readily incorporated with other functional nanomaterials. In this review, the advances of GO derivatives and their nanohybrid structures as alternatives to organic matrices are summarized to demonstrate their potential and practical aspect for MALDI-TOF-MS analysis of small molecules.
Morphological Manipulation of DNA Gel Microbeads with Biomolecular Stimuli
Authors: Okumura Shu , Hapsianto Benediktus Nixon , Lobato-Dauzier Nicolas , Ohno Yuto , Benner Seiju , Torii Yosuke , Tanabe Yuuka , Takada Kazuki , Baccouche Alexandre , Shinohara Marie , Kim Soo Hyeon , Fujii Teruo , Genot Anthony
Published: January 2021

Hydrogels are essential in many fields ranging from tissue engineering and drug delivery to food sciences or cosmetics. Hydrogels that respond to specific biomolecular stimuli such as DNA, mRNA, miRNA and small molecules are highly desirable from the perspective of medical applications, however interfacing classical hydrogels with nucleic acids is still challenging. Here were demonstrate the generation of microbeads of DNA hydrogels with droplet microfluidic, and their morphological actuation with DNA strands. Using strand displacement and the specificity of DNA base pairing, we selectively dissolved gel beads, and reversibly changed their size on-the-fly with controlled swelling and shrinking. Lastly, we performed a complex computing primitive—A Winner-Takes-All competition between two populations of gel beads. Overall, these results show that strand responsive DNA gels have tantalizing potentials to enhance and expand traditional hydrogels, in particular for applications in sequencing and drug delivery.
Improved Cycle Stability of LiSn Alloy Anode for Different Electrolyte Systems in Lithium Battery
Authors: Lou Jin , Chen Kanghua , Yang Nachuan , Shuai Yi , Zhu Changjun
Published: January 2021

Lithium metal anode still confronts a series of problems at the way to commercialization though it has advantages in high energy density. The formation of Li dendrite is the major limitation need to be conquered. Here, a facile and simple LiSn alloy anode prepared by a direct metallurgy method is fabricated and evaluated in both liquid electrolyte and solid electrolyte. Structural analysis and electrochemical measurements reveal the promoted ionic transference of interface and enhanced cycling stability in different electrolyte systems, without dendrite formation. Furthermore, the application of this simple and sustainable LiSn alloy can be extended to more alloy anode and might unlock the next-generation anode in the future.
Artificial Intelligence in Nutrients Science Research: A Review
Authors: Sak Jarosław , Suchodolska Magdalena
Published: January 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) as a branch of computer science, the purpose of which is to imitate thought processes, learning abilities and knowledge management, finds more and more applications in experimental and clinical medicine. In recent decades, there has been an expansion of AI applications in biomedical sciences. The possibilities of artificial intelligence in the field of medical diagnostics, risk prediction and support of therapeutic techniques are growing rapidly. The aim of the article is to analyze the current use of AI in nutrients science research. The literature review was conducted in PubMed. A total of 399 records published between 1987 and 2020 were obtained, of which, after analyzing the titles and abstracts, 261 were rejected. In the next stages, the remaining records were analyzed using the full-text versions and, finally, 55 papers were selected. These papers were divided into three areas: AI in biomedical nutrients research (20 studies), AI in clinical nutrients research (22 studies) and AI in nutritional epidemiology (13 studies). It was found that the artificial neural network (ANN) methodology was dominant in the group of research on food composition study and production of nutrients. However, machine learning (ML) algorithms were widely used in studies on the influence of nutrients on the functioning of the human body in health and disease and in studies on the gut microbiota. Deep learning (DL) algorithms prevailed in a group of research works on clinical nutrients intake. The development of dietary systems using AI technology may lead to the creation of a global network that will be able to both actively support and monitor the personalized supply of nutrients.
Advances in Nutritional Management of Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: El-Matary Wael
Published: January 2021

Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are chronic lifelong non-curable inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) of uncertain etiology with immune dysfunction likely related to the interaction between the environment and the intestinal microbiome in genetically susceptible individuals [...]
Increased Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake Is Inversely Associated with Subclinical Inflammation in Healthy Elderly Men, Based on the 2015–2018 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Yang Woojung , Lee Jong Hun , Lee Jae-woo , Kim Yonghwan , Kim Ye-Seul , You Hyo-Sun , Kang Hee-Taik
Published: January 2021

(1) Background: Subclinical inflammation as a risk factor of cardiovascular diseases was clinically measured using C-reactive protein (CRP) level. (2) Methods: This study was cross-sectionally designed based the 2015–2018 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). The ratio of daily omega-3 fatty acids to energy intake (ω3FA ratio) was classified into four quartile groups (Q1, <0.3%; Q2, 0.3%–<0.6%; Q3, 0.6%–<1.0%; and Q4, ≥1.0% in both sexes). Logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the association between the ω3FA ratio and subclinical inflammation defined as CRP levels ≥3 mg/dL. (3) Results: The ω3FA ratio in subjects without and with subclinical inflammation was 0.8% and 0.7% in men (p-value = 0.001), and 0.8% and 0.8% in women (p-value = 0.491), respectively. The prevalence of subclinical inflammation in males decreased with increasing quartile of ω3FA ratio (12.9%, 9.6%, 7.4%, and 7.7%, p-value = 0.033), while female prevalence was not significant among quartile groups. Compared to Q1, odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for subclinical inflammation of Q2, Q3, and Q4 were 0.740 (0.465–1.177), 0.564 (0.341–0.930), and 0.549 (0.317–0.953) in males, and 1.066 (0.653–1.741), 1.105 (0.600–1.718), and 0.934 (0.556–1.571) in females after full adjustment. (4) Conclusion: The ω3FA ratio is associated with subclinical inflammation in men.
Higher HEI-2015 Score Is Associated with Reduced Risk of Depression: Result from NHANES 2005–2016
Authors: Wang Kai , Zhao Yudi , Nie Jiaqi , Xu Haoling , Yu Chuanhua , Wang Suqing
Published: January 2021

Globally, the total estimated number of people living with depression increased by 18.4% between 2005 and 2015, with the prevalence being 4.8% in 2015. Many nutrient and diet patterns are proven to be correlated to depression, so we conducted this analysis to explore whether the Healthy Eating Index 2015 (HEI-2015) score is associated with depression, and possibly to provide dietary measures to reduce the risk of depression. Data came from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005–2016), a cross-sectional and nationally representative database. The analytic sample was limited to adults: (1) age ≥20 with complete information of HEI-2015 and depression; (2) no missing data of demographics, BMI, drinking, smoking, and fasting plasma glucose. HEI-2015 was calculated using the Dietary Interview: Total Nutrient Intakes, First Day data file. Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Weighted logistic regression models were used to explore the relationship between the HEI-2015 score and depression. The final study sample included 10,349 adults, with 51.4% of them being men, representing a population of about 167.8 million non-institutionalized U.S. adults. After multivariable adjustment, average HEI status (OR: 0.848, 95% CI: 0.846–0.849) and optimal HEI status (OR: 0.455, 95% CI: 0.453–0.456) were associated with reduced odds of depression. Poor diet quality is significantly associated with elevated depressive symptoms in U.S. adults. Aligning with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans reduces the risk of depression.
Differences in Regulatory Mechanisms Induced by β-Lactoglobulin and κ-Casein in Cow’s Milk Allergy Mouse Model–In Vivo and Ex Vivo Studies
Authors: Złotkowska Dagmara , Stachurska Emilia , Fuc Ewa , Wróblewska Barbara , Mikołajczyk Anita , Wasilewska Ewa
Published: January 2021

The presence of various proteins, including modified ones, in food which exhibit diverse immunogenic and sensitizing properties increases the difficulty of predicting host immune responses. Still, there is a lack of sufficiently reliable and comparable data and research models describing allergens in dietary matrices. The aim of the study was to estimate the immunomodulatory effects of β-lactoglobulin (β-lg) in comparison to those elicited by κ-casein (κ-CN), in vivo and ex vivo, using naïve splenocytes and a mouse sensitization model. Our results revealed that the humoral and cellular responses triggered by β-lg and κ-CN were of diverse magnitudes and showed different dynamics in the induction of control mechanisms. β-Lg turned out to be more immunogenic and induced a more dominant Th1 response than κ-CN, which triggered a significantly higher IgE response. For both proteins, CD4+ lymphocyte profiles correlated with CD4+CD25+ and CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells induction and interleukin 10 secretion, but β-lg induced more CD4+CD25+Foxp3- Tregs. Moreover, ex vivo studies showed the risk of interaction of immune responses to different milk proteins, which may exacerbate allergy, especially the one caused by β-lg. In conclusion, the applied model of in vivo and ex vivo exposure to β-lg and κ-CN showed significant differences in immunoreactivity of the tested proteins (κ-CN demonstrated stronger allergenic potential than β-lg), and may be useful for the estimation of allergenic potential of various food proteins, including those modified in technological processes.
The Immunopathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease Is Related to the Composition of Gut Microbiota
Authors: Leblhuber Friedrich , Ehrlich Daniela , Steiner Kostja , Geisler Simon , Fuchs Dietmar , Lanser Lukas , Kurz Katharina
Published: January 2021

The microbiota–gut–brain axis plays an important role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Commensal and pathogenic enteric bacteria can influence brain and immune system function by the production of lipopolysaccharides and amyloid. Dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiome induces local and consecutively systemic immune-mediated inflammation. Proinflammatory cytokines then trigger neuroinflammation and finally neurodegeneration. Immune-mediated oxidative stress can lead to a deficiency of vitamins and essential micronutrients. Furthermore, the wrong composition of gut microbiota might impair the intake and metabolization of nutrients. In patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) significant alterations of the gut microbiota have been demonstrated. Standard Western diet, infections, decreased physical activity and chronic stress impact the composition and diversity of gut microbiota. A higher abundancy of “pro-inflammatory” gut microbiota goes along with enhanced systemic inflammation and neuroinflammatory processes. Thus, AD beginning in the gut is closely related to the imbalance of gut microbiota. Modulation of gut microbiota by Mediterranean diet, probiotics and curcumin can slow down cognitive decline and alter the gut microbiome significantly. A multi-domain intervention approach addressing underlying causes of AD (inflammation, infections, metabolic alterations like insulin resistance and nutrient deficiency, stress) appears very promising to reduce or even reverse cognitive decline by exerting positive effects on the gut microbiota.
The Effects of Feeding Waste Milk Containing Antimicrobial Residues on Dairy Calf Health
Authors: Firth Clair , Kremer Katrin , Werner Thomas , Käsbohrer Annemarie
Published: January 2021

A number of studies have reported that there is a high prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant faecal bacteria excreted by dairy calves. Although faecal shedding is influenced by a variety of factors, such as the environment and calf age, feeding milk with antimicrobial residues contributes significantly to an increased prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria, such as extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli. As a follow-up to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Scientific Opinion on the risk of AMR development in dairy calves published in January 2017, this review aims to illustrate more recent research in this area, focusing on the period 2016 to 2020. A total of 19 papers are reviewed here. The vast majority assess the commensal faecal bacteria, E. coli, isolated from dairy calves, in particular its antimicrobial-resistant forms such as ESBL-producing E. coli and AmpC-producing E. coli. The effect of waste milk feeding on the prevalence of pathogens such as Salmonella spp. has also been investigated. Current research findings include positive effects on daily liveweight gain and other advantages for calf health from feeding waste milk compared to milk replacer. However, the negative effects, such as the demonstrable selection for antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, the shift in the intestinal microbiome and the possible negative consequences that these could have on global public health, should always be taken into consideration.