bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food Security and Hygiene Practice among Adolescent Girls in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State, Nigeria
Authors: Charles Shapu Ruth , Ismail Suriani , Ahmad Norliza , Lim Poh Ying , Abubakar Njodi Ibrahim
Published: September 2020

Inadequate food security contributes to poor health outcome for all, including adolescent girls. The study aims at determining the level of food security and hygiene among adolescent girls. A school-based cross-sectional study was carried out among adolescent girls aged 10 to 19 years old from six schools in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State. The instrument for data collection was a questionnaire using KoBoCollect Toolbox between June and July 2019. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of food security and hygiene among respondents. A majority of the respondents (73.5%) were in a very low food security level. Three factors were significantly associated with food security level, these included schools (p = 0.007), age of mother (p = 0.004), and occupation of mother (p < 0.001). School (p = 0.003), age (father p = 0.017; mother; p = 0.012), hygiene (p = 0.005), and occupation of mother (p = 0.002) were predictors of food security. About (46.6%) of respondents had poor hygiene practice, school (p = 0.016) was significantly associated with hygiene practice. School (p = 0.019; and p = 0.005) and food security (p = 0.009) were predictors of hygiene practice. This study reveals a high prevalence of low food security among adolescent girls.
Comparative Analysis of Physicochemical Characteristics, Nutritional and Functional Components and Antioxidant Capacity of Fifteen Kiwifruit (Actinidia) Cultivars—Comparative Analysis of Fifteen Kiwifruit (Actinidia) Cultivars
Authors: Zhang Hexin , Zhao Qinyu , Lan Tian , Geng Tonghui , Gao Chenxu , Yuan Quyu , Zhang Qianwen , Xu Pingkang , Sun Xiangyu , Liu Xuebo , Ma Tingting
Published: September 2020

Physicochemical characteristics, nutritional and functional components, and the antioxidant capacity of 15 kinds of domestic and imported kiwifruit in China were studied. Kiwifruit was classified according to flesh color or species, and the differences were analyzed and compared. Results demonstrated Ruiyu had the highest sugar-acid ratio, and Hongshi No.2 was an excellent cultivar with strong antioxidant capacity. TPC (total polyphenol content) and AAC (ascorbic acid content) showed a significant positive correlation. TPC was the greatest antioxidant contributor in the DPPH and FRAP assays. The sugar–acid ratio and TFC (total flavonoids content) in red-fleshed kiwifruit were significantly higher than those in yellow-fleshed and green-fleshed ones. The composition of free amino acids had a tendency to distinguish A. deliciosa and A. chinensis, but this needs further verification. In addition, the contents of mineral elements, folic acid and L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate were also analyzed. Generally, kiwifruit contains comprehensive nutrients and has strong antioxidant capacity. Cultivar is one of the main factors affecting nutritional and functional properties and antioxidant capacity.
Authentication of Meat and Meat Products Using Triacylglycerols Profiling and by DNA Analysis
Authors: Hrbek Vojtech , Zdenkova Kamila , Jilkova Diliara , Cermakova Eliska , Jiru Monika , Demnerova Katerina , Pulkrabova Jana , Hajslova Jana
Published: September 2020

Two alternative, complementary analytical strategies were successfully used to identify the most common meat species—beef, pork and chicken—in meat products. The first innovative high-throughput approach was based on triacylglycerols fingerprinting by direct analysis in real time coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (DART–HRMS). The second was the classic commonly used DNA analysis based on the use of nuclear or mitochondrial DNA in multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR). The DART–HRMS method represents a rapid, high throughput screening method and was shown to have a good potential for the authentication of meat products. Nevertheless, it should be noted that due to a limited number of samples in this pilot study, we present here a proof of concept. More samples must be analyzed by DART–HRMS to build a robust classification model applicable for reliable authentication. To verify the DART–HRMS results, all samples were analyzed by PCRs. Good compliance in samples classification was documented. In routine practice under these conditions, screening based on DART–HRMS could be used for identification of suspect samples, which could be then examined and validated by accurate PCRs. In this way, saving of both labor and cost could be achieved. In the final phase, commercially available meat products from the Czech market were tested using this new strategy. Canned meats—typical Czech sausages and luncheon meats, all with declared content of beef, pork and chicken meat—were used. Compliance with the label declaration was confirmed and no adulteration was found.
Impact of Almond Variety on “Amaretti” Cookies as Assessed through Image Features Modeling, Physical Chemical Measures and Sensory Analyses
Authors: Campus Marco , Sanna Manuela , Scanu Giandomenico , Di Salvo Riccardo , De Pau Luciano , Satta Daniela , Demarcus Antonio , Roggio Tonina
Published: September 2020

In the present study, the influence of almond variety on color, chemical, physical and sensory characteristics of “amaretti” cookies during the shelf life, was assessed. Four varieties were chosen for the study, two of which were local (Cossu, Arrubia) and two widely cultivated (Tuono, Texas). Almonds have been characterized in the content of proteins, crude fat, amygdalin and fatty acids profile. The evolution of the characteristics during the shelf life hasbeen measured through image data modeling, texture, physical chemical and sensory analyses. Data were then treated with a multivariate approach performing a PCA. Image analysis and fitting on log normal and powerlaw functions highlighted the influence of the variety on the total area affected by surface breakages, and on the distribution of the cracking surfaces dimension classes. Texture parameters (crust hardness, thickness and work of deformation) were negatively correlated to moisture content. Sensory profile confirmed the differences in tactile features measured through instrumental texture, while slight to no differences were found in odor profile. Consumer test showed an higher acceptability for Arrubia, Texas and Tuono samples throughout the shelf life, while Cossu samples were less accepted. Overall, the choice of almond variety influences product features and liking of almond products, therefore it represents an important phase to direct the choice of both farmers and confectionery manufacturers.
Physical–Mechanical and Mineralogical Properties of Fired Bricks of the Archaeological Site of Harran, Turkey
Authors: Binici Hanifi , Binici Fatih , Akcan Mehmet , Yardim Yavuz , Mustafaraj Enea , Corradi Marco
Published: September 2020

In this study, the physical–mechanical and mineralogical properties of bricks used in historical structures of the site of Harran, Turkey have been investigated. Harran was destroyed by the Mongol army, during the Turkish reconquest campaign around the 1260s. The remains of the buildings made of bricks and basalt/limestone were recently uncovered almost in their entirety. Several brick samples have been taken from the burial mound, the university, the city walls, the castle, and the great mosque. From the visual analyses, it was noted that the bricks have unique colors such as pottery, desert beige, and canyon. Physical analyses show that the absorption rates of the bricks are between 17.30–38.12%, their densities between 1.33–1.70 g/cm3, and porosities between 8.88–25.31%. For the mechanical analyses, the bending strengths have been found to be between 0.82–1.86 MPa and compressive strengths between 6.69–7.95 MPa. The thin-section images show that the bricks contain calcite, muscovite, and plagioclase quartz and pyroxene minerals.
Process Waters from Hydrothermal Carbonization of Sludge: Characteristics and Possible Valorization Pathways
Authors: Langone Michela , Basso Daniele
Published: September 2020

Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is an innovative process capable of converting wet biodegradable residues into value-added materials, such as hydrochar. HTC has been studied for decades, however, a lack of detailed information on the production and composition of the process water has been highlighted by several authors. In this paper the state of the art of the knowledge on this by-product is analyzed, with attention to HTC applied to municipal and agro-industrial anaerobic digestion digestate. The chemical and physical characteristics of the process water obtained at different HTC conditions are compared along with pH, color, organic matter, nutrients, heavy metals and toxic compounds. The possibility of recovering nutrients and other valorization pathways is analyzed and technical feasibility constraints are reported. Finally, the paper describes the main companies which are investing actively in proposing HTC technology towards improving an effective process water valorization.
The Molecular Mechanisms by Which Vitamin D Prevents Insulin Resistance and Associated Disorders
Authors: Szymczak-Pajor Izabela , Drzewoski Józef , Śliwińska Agnieszka
Published: September 2020

Numerous studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is very common in modern societies and is perceived as an important risk factor in the development of insulin resistance and related diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). While it is generally accepted that vitamin D is a regulator of bone homeostasis, its ability to counteract insulin resistance is subject to debate. The goal of this communication is to review the molecular mechanism by which vitamin D reduces insulin resistance and related complications. The university library, PUBMED, and Google Scholar were searched to find relevant studies to be summarized in this review article. Insulin resistance is accompanied by chronic hyperglycaemia and inflammation. Recent studies have shown that vitamin D exhibits indirect antioxidative properties and participates in the maintenance of normal resting ROS level. Appealingly, vitamin D reduces inflammation and regulates Ca2+ level in many cell types. Therefore, the beneficial actions of vitamin D include diminished insulin resistance which is observed as an improvement of glucose and lipid metabolism in insulin-sensitive tissues.
Facts about Fats: New Insights into the Role of Lipids in Metabolism, Disease and Therapy
Authors: Segatto Marco , Pallottini Valentina
Published: September 2020

Although initially regarded as a passive system to store energy, lipids are now considered to play crucial, structural and functional roles in almost all the biological processes involved in the regulation of physiological and pathological conditions [...]
Exploiting the User Social Context to Address Neighborhood Bias in Collaborative Filtering Music Recommender Systems
Authors: Sánchez-Moreno Diego , López Batista Vivian , Vicente M. Dolores Muñoz , Sánchez Lázaro Ángel Luis , Moreno-García María N.
Published: September 2020

Recent research in the field of recommender systems focuses on the incorporation of social information into collaborative filtering methods to improve the reliability of recommendations. Social networks enclose valuable data regarding user behavior and connections that can be exploited in this area to infer knowledge about user preferences and social influence. The fact that streaming music platforms have some social functionalities also allows this type of information to be used for music recommendation. In this work, we take advantage of the friendship structure to address a type of recommendation bias derived from the way collaborative filtering methods compute the neighborhood. These methods restrict the rating predictions for a user to the items that have been rated by their nearest neighbors while leaving out other items that might be of his/her interest. This problem is different from the popularity bias caused by the power-law distribution of the item rating frequency (long-tail), well-known in the music domain, although both shortcomings can be related. Our proposal is based on extending and diversifying the neighborhood by capturing trust and homophily effects between users through social structure metrics. The results show an increase in potentially recommendable items while reducing recommendation error rates.
Ground Reaction Forces Are Predicted with Functional and Clinical Tests in Healthy Collegiate Students
Authors: Cacolice Paul A. , Carcia Christopher R. , Scibek Jason S. , Phelps Amy L.
Published: September 2020

Increased vertical and posterior ground reaction forces (GRFs) are associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. If a practical means to predict these forces existed, ACL injury risk could be attenuated. Forty-two active college-age individuals (21 females, 20.66 ± 1.46 y, 70.70 ± 2.36 cm, 82.20 ± 7.60 kg; 21 males, 21.57 ± 1.28 y, 65.52 ± 1.87 cm, 64.19 ± 9.05 kg) participated in this controlled laboratory study. GRFs were ascertained by having the subjects perform a unilateral landing task onto a force plate. Several clinical measures (Fat Free Mass (FFM), dorsiflexion passive range of motion (DPROM), isometric peak force of the lateral hip rotators, knee flexor/extensor peak force ratio (H:Q), the completion of the overhead deep squat), two functional tests (Margaria–Kalamen, Single Leg Triple Hop (SLTH)), and sex served as the predictor variables. Regression models to predict the GRFs normalized to the FFM (nGRFz, nGRFy) were generated. nGRFz was best predicted with a linear regression equation that included SLTH and DPROM (adjusted R2 = 0.274; p = 0.001). nGRFy was best predicted with a linear regression equation that included H:Q, FFM, and DPROM (adjusted R2 = 0.476; p < 0.001). Simple clinical measures and functional tests explain a small to moderate amount of the variance associated with the FFM normalized vertical and posterior GRFs in active college-age individuals.
Decreased Volume of Lateral and Medial Geniculate Nuclei in Patients with LHON Disease—7 Tesla MRI Study
Authors: Jonak Kamil , Krukow Paweł , Jonak Katarzyna E. , Radzikowska Elżbieta , Baj Jacek , Niedziałek Anna , Pankowska Anna , Symms Mark , Stępniewski Andrzej , Podkowiński Arkadiusz , Osuchowska Ida , Grochowski Cezary
Published: September 2020

Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a maternally inherited genetic disorder leading to severe and bilateral loss of central vision, with a young male predilection. In recent years, multiple studies examined structural abnormalities in visual white matter tracts such as the optic tract and optic radiation. However, it is still unclear if the disease alters only some parts of the white matter architecture or whether the changes also affect grey matter parts of the visual pathway. This study aimed at improving our understanding of morphometric changes in the lateral (LGN) and medial (MGN) geniculate nuclei and their associations with the clinical picture in LHON by the application of a submillimeter surface-based analysis approach to the ultra-high-field 7T magnetic resonance imaging data. To meet these goals, fifteen LHON patients and fifteen age-matched healthy subjects were examined. A quantitative analysis of the LGN and MGN volume was performed for all individuals. Additionally, morphometric results of LGN and MGN were correlated with variables covering selected aspects of the clinical picture of LHON. In comparison with healthy controls (HC), LHON participants showed a significantly decreased volume of the right LGN and the right MGN. Nevertheless, the volume of the right LGN was strongly correlated with the averaged thickness value of the right retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL). The abnormalities in the volume of the LHON patients’ thalamic nuclei indicate that the disease can cause changes not only in the white matter areas constituting visual tracts but also in the grey matter structures. Furthermore, the correlation between the changes in the LGN volume and the RNFL, as well as the right optic nerve surface area located proximally to the eyeball, suggest some associations between the atrophy of these structures. However, to fully confirm this observation, longitudinal studies should be conducted.
Characterization of LP-Z Lipoprotein Particles and Quantification in Subjects with Liver Disease Using a Newly Developed NMR-Based Assay
Authors: Bedi Shimpi , Garcia Erwin , Jeyarajah Elias , Shalaurova Irina , Perez-Matos Maria , Jiang Z. , Dullaart Robin , Matyus Steven , Kirk William , Otvos James , Davidson W. , Connelly Margery
Published: September 2020

Background: Lipoprotein particles with abnormal compositions, such as lipoprotein X (LP-X) and lipoprotein Z (LP-Z), have been described in cases of obstructive jaundice and cholestasis. The study objectives were to: (1) develop an NMR-based assay for quantification of plasma/serum LP-Z particles, (2) evaluate the assay performance, (3) isolate LP-Z particles and characterize them by lipidomic and proteomic analysis, and (4) quantify LP-Z in subjects with various liver diseases. Methods: Assay performance was assessed for linearity, sensitivity, and precision. Mass spectroscopy was used to characterize the protein and lipid content of isolated LP-Z particles. Results: The assay showed good linearity and precision (2.5–6.3%). Lipid analyses revealed that LP-Z particles exhibit lower cholesteryl esters and higher free cholesterol, bile acids, acylcarnitines, diacylglycerides, dihexosylceramides, lysophosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylcholines, triacylglycerides, and fatty acids than low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles. A proteomic analysis revealed that LP-Z have one copy of apolipoprotein B per particle such as LDL, but less apolipoprotein (apo)A-I, apoC3, apoA-IV and apoC2 and more complement C3. LP-Z were not detected in healthy volunteers or subjects with primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, autoimmune hepatitis, or type 2 diabetes. LP-Z were detected in some, but not all, subjects with hypertriglyceridemia, and were high in some subjects with alcoholic liver disease. Conclusions: LP-Z differ significantly in their lipid and protein content from LDL. Further studies are needed to fully understand the pathophysiological reason for the enhanced presence of LP-Z particles in patients with cholestasis and alcoholic liver disease.
The Use of 3D Titanium Miniplates in Surgical Treatment of Patients with Condylar Fractures
Authors: Sikora Maciej , Chęciński Maciej , Sielski Marcin , Chlubek Dariusz
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of open treatment of mandibular condyle fractures using 3D miniplates. A group of 113 patients has been chosen for evaluation, including 100 men and 13 women. After hospitalization, each patient underwent a 6-month postoperative follow-up. The material chosen for the analysis consisted of data collected during the patient’s stay in the hospital as well as the postoperative outpatient care. A single 4-hole Delta Condyle Compression Plate (4-DCCP) was used in 90 out of 113 (79.6%) cases. In 16 out of 113 (14.2%) patients, the Trapezoid Condyle Plate (4-TCP or 9-TCP) was used. The remaining cases required more than one miniplate. No 3D miniplate fractures were found in the study subjects during the analyzed observation period. Loosening of one or more osteosynthesis screws was observed in 4 out of 113 (3.5%) patients. Screw loosening was a complication that did not affect bone healing in any of the patient cases. The conducted research confirms that titanium 3D mini-plates are easy to adjust and take up little space, therefore they can easily be used in cases of mandibular condyle base and lower condyle neck fractures. The stability of the three-dimensional miniplates for osteosynthesis gives very good reliability for the rigid fixation of the fractured mandibular condyle.
Profile of Patients with Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Osaka Prefecture, Japan: A Population-Based Descriptive Study
Authors: Takeuchi Taro , Imanaka Tomoka , Katayama Yusuke , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Sobue Tomotaka , Shimazu Takeshi
Published: September 2020

Little is known about the epidemiological characteristics of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Japan. This is a retrospective observational study of COVID-19 patients; study was conducted from February 1 to May 31, 2020. We used publicly collected data on cases of COVID-19 confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing in Osaka Prefecture, Japan. We described the patient characteristics. The Cox proportional-hazards model was applied to evaluate the association between factors (sex, onset month, age group, city of residence) and mortality, and hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals were estimated. During the study period, 5.7% (1782/31,152) of individuals who underwent PCR testing for COVID-19 showed positive results. Among 244 patients with information on symptoms, the most common symptom was fever (76.6%), followed by cough (44.3%). Of the 1782 patients, 86 patients died. Compared with those aged 0–59 years, higher mortality was observed among those aged 60–69 years (HR: 12.02 [3.37–42.93]), 70–79 years (HR: 44.62 [15.16–131.30]), 80–89 years (HR: 68.38 [22.93–203.89]), and ≥90 years (HR: 144.71 [42.55–492.15]). In conclusion, in Osaka Prefecture, Japan, the most common symptom was fever, and older adults had higher mortality among COVID-19 patients.
Deep Learning-Based Crowd Scene Analysis Survey
Authors: Elbishlawi Sherif , Abdelpakey Mohamed H. , Eltantawy Agwad , Shehata Mohamed S. , Mohamed Mostafa M.
Published: September 2020

Recently, our world witnessed major events that attracted a lot of attention towards the importance of automatic crowd scene analysis. For example, the COVID-19 breakout and public events require an automatic system to manage, count, secure, and track a crowd that shares the same area. However, analyzing crowd scenes is very challenging due to heavy occlusion, complex behaviors, and posture changes. This paper surveys deep learning-based methods for analyzing crowded scenes. The reviewed methods are categorized as (1) crowd counting and (2) crowd actions recognition. Moreover, crowd scene datasets are surveyed. In additional to the above surveys, this paper proposes an evaluation metric for crowd scene analysis methods. This metric estimates the difference between calculated crowed count and actual count in crowd scene videos.
Seasonal Dynamic of CDOM in a Shelf Site of the South-Eastern Ligurian Sea (Western Mediterranean)
Authors: Massi Luca , Frittitta Laura , Melillo Chiara , Polonelli Francesca , Bianchi Veronica , De Biasi Anna Maria , Nuccio Caterina
Published: September 2020

Chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) is the fraction of the Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) mainly absorbing UV and blue radiation, influencing water optical properties, light availability for primary production, and water-leaving radiance. In open seas, phytoplankton is the main source of organic carbon and CDOM. Despite this, the direct or indirect phytoplankton role in CDOM production is not yet fully clarified. From studies about the relationship between CDOM and phytoplankton biomass as Chlorophyll a (Chl) in the epipelagic layer, positive correlations have been highlighted with regional differences and high levels of variability. Seven years of seasonal dynamic and vertical distribution of CDOM in the Ligurian Sea continental shelf waters have been analyzed in order to evidence the main environmental and/or biological factors determining CDOM dynamic, focusing on the CDOM/Chl relationship. CDOM optical properties (absorption at 440 nm, aCDOM (440), and spectral slope, S) allowed to distinguish different pools and to debate their origin. Four different pools were characterized and two of them were directly or indirectly related to phytoplankton biomass and taxonomic composition. Nevertheless, CDOM/Chl confirm a high level of variability These findings suggest some inputs to improve Mediterranean satellite estimates of Chl and CDOM, such as the seasonal differentiation of optical properties, especially S and CDOM/Chl relationships.
Wave Energy Resource Assessment for Exploitation—A Review
Authors: Guillou Nicolas , Lavidas George , Chapalain Georges
Published: September 2020

Over recent decades, the exploitation of wave energy resources has sparked a wide range of technologies dedicated to capturing the available power with maximum efficiency, reduced costs, and minimum environmental impacts. These different objectives are fundamental to guarantee the development of the marine wave energy sector, but require also refined assessments of available resource and expected generated power to optimize devices designs and locations. We reviewed here the most recent resource characterizations starting from (i) investigations based on available observations (in situ and satellite) and hindcast databases to (ii) refined numerical simulations specifically dedicated to wave power assessments. After an overall description of formulations and energy metrics adopted in resource characterization, we exhibited the benefits, limitations and potential of the different methods discussing results obtained in the most energetic locations around the world. Particular attention was dedicated to uncertainties in the assessment of the available and expected powers associated with wave–climate temporal variability, physical processes (such as wave–current interactions), model implementation and energy extraction. This up-to-date review provided original methods complementing the standard technical specifications liable to feed advanced wave energy resource assessment.
The Effects of Metformin on the Gut Microbiota of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Two-Center, Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Nakajima Hanako , Takewaki Fumie , Hashimoto Yoshitaka , Kajiyama Shizuo , Majima Saori , Okada Hiroshi , Senmaru Takafumi , Ushigome Emi , Nakanishi Naoko , Hamaguchi Masahide , Yamazaki Masahiro , Tanaka Yoshiki , Oikawa Yousuke , Nakajima Shunji , Ohno Hiroshi , Fukui Michiaki
Published: September 2020

Metformin is reported to affect human gut microbiota; however, the nature of this association in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is unknown. We enrolled 31 patients with T2DM who took metformin for the first time in this study. We compared them before and after four weeks of taking metformin. Fecal samples were collected and 16S rDNA sequences were performed to identify the gut microbiota. Blood samples and Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) questionnaire results, denoting gastro-intestinal symptoms, were also collected. In the whole-group analysis, no significant differences were found at the phylum level. In a subgroup of 21 patients that excluding those using medications affecting gut microbiota, there was a significant decrease of the phylum Firmicutes (p = 0.042) and of the ratio of the Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes abundances (p = 0.04) after taking metformin. Changes in abdominal pain (r = −0.56, p = 0.008) and regurgitation (r = −0.53, p = 0.01) were associated with Parabacteroides. Despite there being no direct association with abdominal symptoms, our study revealed that the composition of gut microbiota in Japanese individuals with T2DM partially changed after starting metformin.
Geodesic Mappings of Spaces with Affine Connections onto Generalized Symmetric and Ricci-Symmetric Spaces
Authors: Berezovski Volodymyr , Cherevko Yevhen , Hinterleitner Irena , Peška Patrik
Published: September 2020

In the paper, we consider geodesic mappings of spaces with an affine connections onto generalized symmetric and Ricci-symmetric spaces. In particular, we studied in detail geodesic mappings of spaces with an affine connections onto 2-, 3-, and m- (Ricci-) symmetric spaces. These spaces play an important role in the General Theory of Relativity. The main results we obtained were generalized to a case of geodesic mappings of spaces with an affine connection onto (Ricci-) symmetric spaces. The main equations of the mappings were obtained as closed mixed systems of PDEs of the Cauchy type in covariant form. For the systems, we have found the maximum number of essential parameters which the solutions depend on. Any m- (Ricci-) symmetric spaces (m≥1) are geodesically mapped onto many spaces with an affine connection. We can call these spaces projectivelly m- (Ricci-) symmetric spaces and for them there exist above-mentioned nontrivial solutions.
Polarized Rigid Del Pezzo Surfaces in Low Codimension
Authors: Qureshi Muhammad Imran
Published: September 2020

We provide explicit graded constructions of orbifold del Pezzo surfaces with rigid orbifold points of type ki×1ri(1,ai):3≤ri≤10,ki∈Z≥0 as well-formed and quasismooth varieties embedded in some weighted projective space. In particular, we present a collection of 147 such surfaces such that their image under their anti-canonical embeddings can be described by using one of the following sets of equations: a single equation, two linearly independent equations, five maximal Pfaffians of 5×5 skew symmetric matrix, and nine 2×2 minors of size 3 square matrix. This is a complete classification of such surfaces under certain carefully chosen bounds on the weights of ambient weighted projective spaces and it is largely based on detailed computer-assisted searches by using the computer algebra system MAGMA.
Atom Identifiers Generated by a Neighborhood-Specific Graph Coloring Method Enable Compound Harmonization across Metabolic Databases
Authors: Jin Huan , Mitchell Joshua M. , Moseley Hunter N. B.
Published: September 2020

Metabolic flux analysis requires both a reliable metabolic model and reliable metabolic profiles in characterizing metabolic reprogramming. Advances in analytic methodologies enable production of high-quality metabolomics datasets capturing isotopic flux. However, useful metabolic models can be difficult to derive due to the lack of relatively complete atom-resolved metabolic networks for a variety of organisms, including human. Here, we developed a neighborhood-specific graph coloring method that creates unique identifiers for each atom in a compound facilitating construction of an atom-resolved metabolic network. What is more, this method is guaranteed to generate the same identifier for symmetric atoms, enabling automatic identification of possible additional mappings caused by molecular symmetry. Furthermore, a compound coloring identifier derived from the corresponding atom coloring identifiers can be used for compound harmonization across various metabolic network databases, which is an essential first step in network integration. With the compound coloring identifiers, 8865 correspondences between KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) and MetaCyc compounds are detected, with 5451 of them confirmed by other identifiers provided by the two databases. In addition, we found that the Enzyme Commission numbers (EC) of reactions can be used to validate possible correspondence pairs, with 1848 unconfirmed pairs validated by commonality in reaction ECs. Moreover, we were able to detect various issues and errors with compound representation in KEGG and MetaCyc databases by compound coloring identifiers, demonstrating the usefulness of this methodology for database curation.
Antibacterial Activity of Silver and Its Application in Dentistry, Cardiology and Dermatology
Authors: Talapko Jasminka , Matijević Tatjana , Juzbašić Martina , Antolović-Požgain Arlen , Škrlec Ivana
Published: September 2020

The problem of antimicrobial resistance is increasingly present and requires the discovery of new antimicrobial agents. Although the healing features of silver have been recognized since ancient times, silver has not been used due to newly discovered antibiotics. Thanks to technology development, a significant step forward has been made in silver nanoparticles research. Nowadays, silver nanoparticles are a frequent target of researchers to find new and better drugs. Namely, there is a need for silver nanoparticles as alternative antibacterial nanobiotics. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), depending on their size and shape, also have different antimicrobial activity. In addition to their apparent antibacterial activity, AgNPs can serve as drug delivery systems and have anti-thrombogenic, anti-platelet, and anti-hypertensive properties. Today they are increasingly used in clinical medicine and dental medicine. This paper presents silver antimicrobial activity and its use in dentistry, cardiology, and dermatology, where it has an extensive range of effects.
Lattice Preferred Orientation and Deformation Microstructures of Glaucophane and Epidote in Experimentally Deformed Epidote Blueschist at High Pressure
Authors: Park Yong , Jung Sejin , Jung Haemyeong
Published: September 2020

To understand the lattice preferred orientation (LPO) and deformation microstructures at the top of a subducting slab in a warm subduction zone, deformation experiments of epidote blueschist were conducted in simple shear under high pressure (0.9–1.5 GPa) and temperature (400–500 °C). At low shear strain (γ ≤ 1), the [001] axes of glaucophane were in subparallel alignment with the shear direction, and the (010) poles were subnormally aligned with the shear plane. At high shear strain (γ > 2), the [001] axes of glaucophane were in subparallel alignment with the shear direction, and the [100] axes were subnormally aligned with the shear plane. At a shear strain between 2< γ <4, the (010) poles of epidote were in subparallel alignment with the shear direction, and the [100] axes were subnormally aligned with the shear plane. At a shear strain where γ > 4, the alignment of the (010) epidote poles had altered from subparallel to subnormal to the shear plane, while the [001] axes were in subparallel alignment with the shear direction. The experimental results indicate that the magnitude of shear strain and rheological contrast between component minerals plays an important role in the formation of LPOs for glaucophane and epidote.
Tuning the Magnetic Moment of Small Late 3d-Transition-Metal Oxide Clusters by Selectively Mixing the Transition-Metal Constituents
Authors: Aguilera-del-Toro Rodrigo H. , Torres María B. , Aguilera-Granja Faustino , Vega Andrés
Published: September 2020

Transition-metal oxide nanoparticles are relevant for many applications in different areas where their superparamagnetic behavior and low blocking temperature are required. However, they have low magnetic moments, which does not favor their being turned into active actuators. Here, we report a systematical study, within the framework of the density functional theory, of the possibility of promoting a high-spin state in small late-transition-metal oxide nanoparticles through alloying. We investigated all possible nanoalloys An−xBxOm (A, B = Fe, Co, Ni; n = 2, 3, 4; 0≤x≤n) with different oxidation rates, m, up to saturation. We found that the higher the concentration of Fe, the higher the absolute stability of the oxidized nanoalloy, while the higher the Ni content, the less prone to oxidation. We demonstrate that combining the stronger tendency of Co and Ni toward parallel couplings with the larger spin polarization of Fe is particularly beneficial for certain nanoalloys in order to achieve a high total magnetic moment, and its robustness against oxidation. In particular, at high oxidation rates we found that certain FeCo oxidized nanoalloys outperform both their pure counterparts, and that alloying even promotes the reentrance of magnetism in certain cases at a critical oxygen rate, close to saturation, at which the pure oxidized counterparts exhibit quenched magnetic moments.
Genome-Wide Screening and Characterization of Non-Coding RNAs in Coffea canephora
Authors: Lemos Samara M. C. , Fonçatti Luiz F. C. , Guyot Romain , Paschoal Alexandre R. , Domingues Douglas S.
Published: September 2020

Coffea canephora grains are highly traded commodities worldwide. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are transcriptional products involved in genome regulation, environmental responses, and plant development. There is not an extensive genome-wide analysis that uncovers the ncRNA portion of the C. canephora genome. This study aimed to provide a curated characterization of six ncRNA classes in the Coffea canephora genome. For this purpose, we employed a combination of similarity-based and structural-based computational approaches with stringent curation. Candidate ncRNA loci had expression evidence analyzed using sRNA-seq libraries. We identified 7455 ncRNA loci (6976 with transcriptional evidence) in the C. canephora genome. This comprised of total 115 snRNAs, 1031 snoRNAs, 92 miRNA precursors, 602 tRNAs, 72 rRNAs, and 5064 lncRNAs. For miRNAs, we identified 159 putative high-confidence targets. This study was the most extensive genomic catalog of curated ncRNAs in the Coffea genus. This data might help elaborating more robust hypotheses in future comparative genomic studies as well as gene regulation and genome dynamics, helping to understand the molecular basis of domestication, environmental adaptation, resistance to pests and diseases, and coffee productivity.
Protective Effect of Spore Powder of Antrodia camphorata ATCC 200183 on CCl4-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Mice
Authors: Ren Yilin , Li Hua-Xiang , Zhou Lingxi , Lu Zhen-Ming , Shi Jinsong , Geng Yan , Xu Zheng-Hong
Published: September 2020

Liver fibrosis is a pathological process with intrahepatic diffused deposition of the excess extracellular matrix, which leads to various chronic liver diseases. Drugs with high efficacy and low toxicity for liver fibrosis are still unavailable. Antrodia camphorata has antioxidant, antivirus, antitumor and anti-inflammation roles, and has been used to treat liver diseases in the population. However, the hepatoprotective effects of A. camphorata spores and the mechanisms behind it have not been investigated. In this study, we evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of spore powder of A. camphorata (SP, 100 mg/kg/day or 200 mg/kg/day) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. SP groups reduced serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities compared with the CCl4 group. SP also showed a decrease in hydroxyproline (Hyp) content in liver tissues. SP improved cell damage and reduced collagen deposition by H&E, Sirius red and Masson staining. Furthermore, SP down-regulated the mRNA levels of α-SMA and Col 1, and the protein expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I (Col 1), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) and nuclear factor-Κb (NF-κB) p65. In summary, SP has an ameliorative effect on hepatic fibrosis, probably by inhibiting the activation of hepatic stellate cells, reducing the synthesis of extracellular matrix.
Novel Dietary Proteins Selectively Affect Intestinal Health In Vitro after Clostridium difficile-Secreted Toxin A Exposure
Authors: Jochems Paulus G. M. , Garssen Johan , Rietveld Pascale C. S. , Govers Coen , Tomassen Monic M. M. , Wichers Harry J. , van Bergenhenegouwen Jeroen , Masereeuw Rosalinde
Published: September 2020

Bacterial gastroenteritis forms a burden on a global scale, both socially and economically. The Gram-positive bacterium Clostridium difficile is an inducer of gastrointestinal bacterial infections, often triggered following disruption of the microbiota by broad-spectrum antibiotics to treat other conditions. The clinical manifestatiaons, e.g., diarrhea, are driven by its toxins secretion, toxin A (TcdA) and toxin B (TcdB). Current therapies are focused on discontinuing patient medication, including antibiotics. However, relapse rates upon therapy are high (20–25%). Here, eighteen dietary proteins were evaluated for their capacity to restore gut health upon C. difficile-derived TcdA exposure. We used bioengineered intestinal tubules to assess proteins for their beneficial effects by examining the epithelial barrier, cell viability, brush-border enzyme activity, IL-6 secretion, IL-8 secretion and nitric oxide (NO) levels upon TcdA challenge. TcdA effectively disrupted the epithelial barrier, increased mitochondrial activity, but did not affect alkaline phosphatase activity, IL-6, IL-8 and NO levels. Intervention with dietary proteins did not show a protective effect on epithelial barrier integrity or mitochondrial activity. However, bovine plasma and potato protein increased alkaline phosphatase activity, egg-white protein increased IL-6 and IL-8 release and wheat, lesser mealworm and yeast protein increased NO levels after TcdA exposure. Hence, dietary proteins can influence parameters involved in intestinal physiology and immune activation suggesting that supplementation with specific dietary proteins may be of benefit during C. difficile infections.
Development of Theranostic Cationic Liposomes Designed for Image-Guided Delivery of Nucleic Acid
Authors: Do Hai Doan , Ménager Christine , Michel Aude , Seguin Johanne , Korichi Tawba , Dhotel Hélène , Marie Corinne , Doan Bich-Thuy , Mignet Nathalie
Published: September 2020

Cationic liposomes have been considered as potential vectors for gene delivery thanks to their ability to transfect cells with high efficiency. Recently, the combination of diagnostic agent and therapeutic agents in the same particle to form a theranostic system has been reported. Magnetic liposomes are one of these examples. Due to the magnetic nanoparticles encapsulated in the liposomes, they can act as a drug delivery system and, at the same time, a magnetic resonance imaging contrast enhancement agent or hyperthermia. In this work, nucleic acid delivery systems based on magnetic cationic liposomes (MCLs) were developed. Two different techniques, reverse phase evaporation and cosolvent sonication, were employed for liposome preparation. Both strategies produced MCLs of less than 200 nm with highly positive charge. Enhancement of their transverse and longitudinal relaxivities r2 and r1 was obtained with both kinds of magnetic liposomes compared to free magnetic nanoparticles. Moreover, these MCLs showed high capacity to form complexes and transfect CT-26 cells using the antibiotic-free pFAR4-luc plasmid. The transfection enhancement with magnetofection was also carried out in CT26 cells. These results suggested that our MCLs could be a promising candidate for image-guided gene therapy.
In Vitro Metabolism of DWP16001, a Novel Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor, in Human and Animal Hepatocytes
Authors: Kim Ju-Hyun , Kim Dong Kyun , Choi Won-Gu , Ji Hye-Young , Choi Ji-Soo , Song Im-Sook , Lee Sangkyu , Lee Hye Suk
Published: September 2020

DWP16001 is currently in a phase 2 clinical trial as a novel anti-diabetes drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes by selective inhibition of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2. This in vitro study was performed to compare the metabolism of DWP16001 in human, dog, monkey, mouse, and rat hepatocytes, and the drug-metabolizing enzymes responsible for the metabolism of DWP16001 were characterized using recombinant human cytochrome 450 (CYP) and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes expressed from cDNAs. The hepatic extraction ratio of DWP16001 in five species ranged from 0.15 to 0.56, suggesting that DWP16001 may be subject to species-dependent and weak-to-moderate hepatic metabolism. Five phase I metabolites (M1–M5) produced by oxidation as well as three DWP16001 glucuronides (U1–U3) and two hydroxy-DWP16001 (M1) glucuronides (U4, U5), were identified from hepatocytes incubated with DWP16001 by liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. In human hepatocytes, M1, M2, M3, U1, and U2 were identified. Formation of M1 and M2 from DWP16001 was catalyzed by CYP3A4 and CYP2C19. M3 was produced by hydroxylation of M1, while M4 was produced by hydroxylation of M2; both hydroxylation reactions were catalyzed by CYP3A4. The formation of U1 was catalyzed by UGT2B7, but UGT1A4, UGT1A9, and UGT2B7 contributed to the formation of U2. In conclusion, DWP16001 is a substrate for CYP3A4, CYP2C19, UGT1A4, UGT1A9, and UGT2B7 enzymes. Overall, DWP16001 is weakly metabolized in human hepatocytes, but there is a potential for the pharmacokinetic modulation and drug–drug interactions, involved in the responsible metabolizing enzymes of DWP16001 in humans.
NLRP3 Inflammasome and Allergic Contact Dermatitis: A Connection to Demystify
Authors: Sebastião Ana Isabel , Ferreira Isabel , Brites Gonçalo , Silva Ana , Neves Bruno Miguel , Teresa Cruz Maria
Published: September 2020

Allergic contact dermatitis is a common occupational disease that manifests as a cell-mediated hypersensitivity reaction following skin exposure to small reactive chemicals termed haptens. Haptens penetrate the stratum corneum and covalently modify proteins in the epidermis, inducing intracellular stress, which further leads to the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), such as uric acid, reactive oxygen species, hyaluronic acid fragments and extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). These DAMPs are recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) in innate immune cells, namely dendritic cells (DCs), leading to their maturation and migration to the draining lymph nodes where they activate naïve T lymphocytes. Among all PRRs, several studies emphasize the role of NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome on the allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) sensitization phase. However, skin allergens—danger signals—NLRP3 inflammasome axis is yet to be completely elucidated. Therefore, in this review, we sought to discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying DAMPs release and NLRP3 inflammasome activation triggered by skin allergens. The elucidation of these key events might help to identify novel therapeutic strategies for ACD, as well as the development of nonanimal alternative methods for the identification and potency categorization of skin sensitizers.
Fractal Structures of Yang–Mills Fields and Non-Extensive Statistics: Applications to High Energy Physics
Authors: Deppman Airton , Megías Eugenio , P. Menezes Débora P.
Published: September 2020

In this work, we provide an overview of the recent investigations on the non-extensive Tsallis statistics and its applications to high energy physics and astrophysics, including physics at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), hadron physics, and neutron stars. We review some recent investigations on the power-law distributions arising in high energy physics experiments focusing on a thermodynamic description of the system formed, which could explain the power-law behavior. The possible connections with a fractal structure of hadrons is also discussed. The main objective of the present work is to delineate the state-of-the-art of those studies and show some open issues that deserve more careful investigation. We propose several possibilities to test the theory through analyses of experimental data.
Variations of Essential Oil Constituents in Oregano (Origanum vulgare subsp. viridulum (= O. heracleoticum) over Cultivation Cycles
Authors: Napoli Edoardo , Giovino Antonio , Carrubba Alessandra , How Yuen Siong Vandana , Rinoldo Carmelo , Nina Onofrio , Ruberto Giuseppe
Published: September 2020

Oregano is—probably—the most appreciated and widespread aromatic plant in Sicily. With the aim of evaluating the modifications of oregano’s essential oil composition over time, between 2013 and 2015 six weekly samplings of three different oregano plantations were carried out, from the beginning of flowering (early May) until the traditional harvest moment (end of June). Samples were hydrodistilled and the obtained essential oils (EOs) were evaluated by means of a combination of GC–FID and GC–MS. The Origanum plants under study were demonstrated to belong to the high-yielding, thymol-type biotypes, with thymol, γ-terpinene and p-cymene as three main components, among the total of about 50 of the evaluated EOs. In each location, EO yields were found to increase throughout survey dates. Significant variations were found in many EO components, both across years and throughout harvest dates within locations. The choice of the harvest moment was confirmed to be crucial in assessing quality aspects of oregano.