bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Methionine Deficiency Enhances Genetic Instability in Murine Immune Cells
Authors: Binz Regina L. , Sadhukhan Ratan , Miousse Isabelle R. , Garg Sarita , Koturbash Igor , Zhou Daohong , Hauer-Jensen Martin , Pathak Rupak
Published: February 2021

Both cell and animal studies have shown that complete or partial deficiency of methionine inhibits tumor growth. Consequently, the potential implementation of this nutritional intervention has recently been of great interest for the treatment of cancer patients. Unfortunately, diet alteration can also affect healthy immune cells such as monocytes/macrophages and their precursor cells in bone marrow. As around half of cancer patients are treated with radiotherapy, the potential deleterious effect of dietary methionine deficiency on immune cells prior to and/or following irradiation needs to be evaluated. Therefore, we examined whether modulation of methionine content alters genetic stability in the murine RAW 264.7 monocyte/macrophage cell line in vitro by chromosomal analysis after 1-month culture in a methionine-deficient or supplemented medium. We also analyzed chromosomal aberrations in the bone marrow cells of CBA/J mice fed with methionine-deficient or supplemented diet for 2 months. While all RAW 264.7 cells revealed a complex translocation involving three chromosomes, three different clones based on the banding pattern of chromosome 9 were identified. Methionine deficiency altered the ratio of the three clones and increased chromosomal aberrations and DNA damage in RAW 264.7. Methionine deficiency also increased radiation-induced chromosomal aberration and DNA damage in RAW 264.7 cells. Furthermore, mice maintained on a methionine-deficient diet showed more chromosomal aberrations in bone marrow cells than those given methionine-adequate or supplemented diets. These findings suggest that caution is warranted for clinical implementation of methionine-deficient diet concurrent with conventional cancer therapy.
Maternal Reproductive Toxicity of Some Essential Oils and Their Constituents
Authors: Dosoky Noura S. , Setzer William N.
Published: February 2021

Even though several plants can improve the female reproductive function, the use of herbs, herbal preparations, or essential oils during pregnancy is questionable. This review is focused on the effects of some essential oils and their constituents on the female reproductive system during pregnancy and on the development of the fetus. The major concerns include causing abortion, reproductive hormone modulation, maternal toxicity, teratogenicity, and embryo-fetotoxicity. This work summarizes the important studies on the reproductive effects of essential oil constituents anethole, apiole, citral, camphor, thymoquinone, trans-sabinyl acetate, methyl salicylate, thujone, pulegone, β-elemene, β-eudesmol, and costus lactone, among others.
Mast Cell Involvement in Fibrosis in Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease
Authors: Strattan Ethan , Hildebrandt Gerhard Carl
Published: February 2021

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is most commonly a treatment for inborn defects of hematopoiesis or acute leukemias. Widespread use of HSCT, a potentially curative therapy, is hampered by onset of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), classified as either acute or chronic GVHD. While the pathology of acute GVHD is better understood, factors driving GVHD at the cellular and molecular level are less clear. Mast cells are an arm of the immune system that are known for atopic disease. However, studies have demonstrated that they can play important roles in tissue homeostasis and wound healing, and mast cell dysregulation can lead to fibrotic disease. Interestingly, in chronic GVHD, aberrant wound healing mechanisms lead to pathological fibrosis, but the cellular etiology driving this is not well-understood, although some studies have implicated mast cells. Given this novel role, we here review the literature for studies of mast cell involvement in the context of chronic GVHD. While there are few publications on this topic, the papers excellently characterized a niche for mast cells in chronic GVHD. These findings may be extended to other fibrosing diseases in order to better target mast cells or their mediators for treatment of fibrotic disease.
Is Inflammation a Friend or Foe for Orthodontic Treatment?: Inflammation in Orthodontically Induced Inflammatory Root Resorption and Accelerating Tooth Movement
Authors: Yamaguchi Masaru , Fukasawa Shinichi
Published: February 2021

The aim of this paper is to provide a review on the role of inflammation in orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption (OIIRR) and accelerating orthodontic tooth movement (AOTM) in orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is stimulated by remodeling of the periodontal ligament (PDL) and alveolar bone. These remodeling activities and tooth displacement are involved in the occurrence of an inflammatory process in the periodontium, in response to orthodontic forces. Inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins (PGs), interleukins (Ils; IL-1, -6, -17), the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α superfamily, and receptor activator of nuclear factor (RANK)/RANK ligand (RANKL)/osteoprotegerin (OPG) are increased in the PDL during OTM. OIIRR is one of the accidental symptoms, and inflammatory mediators have been detected in resorbed roots, PDL, and alveolar bone exposed to heavy orthodontic force. Therefore, these inflammatory mediators are involved with the occurrence of OIIRR during orthodontic tooth movement. On the contrary, regional accelerating phenomenon (RAP) occurs after fractures and surgery such as osteotomies or bone grafting, and bone healing is accelerated by increasing osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Recently, tooth movement after surgical procedures such as corticotomy, corticision, piezocision, and micro-osteoperforation might be accelerated by RAP, which increases the bone metabolism. Therefore, inflammation may be involved in accelerated OTM (AOTM). The knowledge of inflammation during orthodontic treatment could be used in preventing OIIRR and AOTM.
Tissue-Specific Knockdown of Genes of the Argonaute Family Modulates Lifespan and Radioresistance in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Proshkina Ekaterina , Yushkova Elena , Koval Liubov , Zemskaya Nadezhda , Shchegoleva Evgeniya , Solovev Ilya , Yakovleva Daria , Pakshina Natalya , Ulyasheva Natalia , Shaposhnikov Mikhail , Moskalev Alexey
Published: February 2021

Small RNAs are essential to coordinate many cellular processes, including the regulation of gene expression patterns, the prevention of genomic instability, and the suppression of the mutagenic transposon activity. These processes determine the aging, longevity, and sensitivity of cells and an organism to stress factors (particularly, ionizing radiation). The biogenesis and activity of small RNAs are provided by proteins of the Argonaute family. These proteins participate in the processing of small RNA precursors and the formation of an RNA-induced silencing complex. However, the role of Argonaute proteins in regulating lifespan and radioresistance remains poorly explored. We studied the effect of knockdown of Argonaute genes (AGO1, AGO2, AGO3, piwi) in various tissues on the Drosophila melanogaster lifespan and survival after the γ-irradiation at a dose of 700 Gy. In most cases, these parameters are reduced or did not change significantly in flies with tissue-specific RNA interference. Surprisingly, piwi knockdown in both the fat body and the nervous system causes a lifespan increase. But changes in radioresistance depend on the tissue in which the gene was knocked out. In addition, analysis of changes in retrotransposon levels and expression of stress response genes allow us to determine associated molecular mechanisms.
Cannabinoid-Induced Conditioned Place Preference, Intravenous Self-Administration, and Behavioral Stimulation Influenced by Ghrelin Receptor Antagonism in Rats
Authors: Charalambous Chrysostomos , Havlickova Tereza , Lapka Marek , Puskina Nina , Šlamberová Romana , Kuchar Martin , Sustkova-Fiserova Magdalena
Published: February 2021

Cannabis/cannabinoids are widely used for recreational and therapy purposes, but their risks are largely disregarded. However, cannabinoid-associated use disorders and dependence are alarmingly increasing and an effective treatment is lacking. Recently, the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR1A) antagonism was proposed as a promising mechanism for drug addiction therapy. However, the role of GHS-R1A and its endogenous ligand ghrelin in cannabinoid abuse remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate whether the GHS-R1A antagonist JMV2959 could reduce the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) and behavioral stimulation, the WIN55,212-2 intravenous self-administration (IVSA), and the tendency to relapse. Following an ongoing WIN55,212-2 self-administration, JMV2959 3 mg/kg was administered intraperitoneally 20 min before three consequent daily 120-min IVSA sessions under a fixed ratio FR1, which significantly reduced the number of the active lever-pressing, the number of infusions, and the cannabinoid intake. Pretreatment with JMV2959 suggested reduction of the WIN55,212-2-seeking/relapse-like behavior tested in rats on the twelfth day of the forced abstinence period. On the contrary, pretreatment with ghrelin significantly increased the cannabinoid IVSA as well as enhanced the relapse-like behavior. Co-administration of ghrelin with JMV2959 abolished/reduced the significant efficacy of the GHS-R1A antagonist in the cannabinoid IVSA. Pretreatment with JMV2959 significantly and dose-dependently reduced the manifestation of THC-induced CPP. The THC-CPP development was reduced after the simultaneous administration of JMV2959 with THC during conditioning. JMV2959 also significantly reduced the THC-induced behavioral stimulation in the LABORAS cage. Our findings suggest that GHS-R1A importantly participates in the rewarding/reinforcing effects of cannabinoids.
Hopping and Flipping of RNA Polymerase on DNA during Recycling for Reinitiation after Intrinsic Termination in Bacterial Transcription
Authors: Kang Wooyoung , Hwang Seungha , Kang Jin Young , Kang Changwon , Hohng Sungchul
Published: February 2021

Two different molecular mechanisms, sliding and hopping, are employed by DNA-binding proteins for their one-dimensional facilitated diffusion on nonspecific DNA regions until reaching their specific target sequences. While it has been controversial whether RNA polymerases (RNAPs) use one-dimensional diffusion in targeting their promoters for transcription initiation, two recent single-molecule studies discovered that post-terminational RNAPs use one-dimensional diffusion for their reinitiation on the same DNA molecules. Escherichia coli RNAP, after synthesizing and releasing product RNA at intrinsic termination, mostly remains bound on DNA and diffuses in both forward and backward directions for recycling, which facilitates reinitiation on nearby promoters. However, it has remained unsolved which mechanism of one-dimensional diffusion is employed by recycling RNAP between termination and reinitiation. Single-molecule fluorescence measurements in this study reveal that post-terminational RNAPs undergo hopping diffusion during recycling on DNA, as their one-dimensional diffusion coefficients increase with rising salt concentrations. We additionally find that reinitiation can occur on promoters positioned in sense and antisense orientations with comparable efficiencies, so reinitiation efficiency depends primarily on distance rather than direction of recycling diffusion. This additional finding confirms that orientation change or flipping of RNAP with respect to DNA efficiently occurs as expected from hopping diffusion.
Silencing DNA Polymerase β Induces Aneuploidy as a Biomarker of Poor Prognosis in Oral Squamous Cell Cancer
Authors: Wang Hui-Ching , Chan Leong-Perng , Wu Chun-Chieh , Chang Shu-Jyuan , Moi Sin-Hua , Luo Chi-Wen , Pan Mei-Ren
Published: February 2021

Most patients with oral squamous cell cancer (OSCC) have a locally advanced stage at diagnosis. The treatment strategies are diverse, including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Despite multimodality treatment, the response rate is unsatisfactory. DNA repair and genetic instability are highly associated with carcinogenesis and treatment outcomes in oral squamous cell cancer, affecting cell growth and proliferation. Therefore, focusing on DNA repair and genetic instability interactions could be a potential target for improving the outcomes of OSCC patients. DNA polymerase-β (POLB) is an important enzyme in base excision repair and contributes to gene instability, leading to tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis. The aim of our study was to confirm POLB regulates the growth of OSCC cells through modulation of cell cycle and chromosomal instability. We analyzed a tissue array from 133 OSCC patients and discovered that low POLB expression was associated with advanced tumor stage and poor overall survival. In multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, low POLB expression and advanced lymph node status were significantly associated with poor survival. By performing in vitro studies on model cell lines, we demonstrated that POLB silencing regulated cell cycles, exacerbated mitotic abnormalities and enhanced cell proliferation. After POLB depletion, OSCC cells showed chromosomal instability and aneuploidy. Thus, POLB is an important maintainer of karyotypic stability in OSCC cells.
Surface Topography of Titanium Affects Their Osteogenic Potential through DNA Methylation
Authors: Cho Young-Dan , Kim Woo-Jin , Kim Sungtae , Ku Young , Ryoo Hyun-Mo
Published: February 2021

It is widely accepted that sandblasted/large-grit/acid-etched (SLA) surfaces of titanium (Ti) have a higher osteogenic potential than machined ones. However, most studies focused on differential gene expression without elucidating the underlying mechanism for this difference. The aim of this study was to evaluate how the surface roughness of dental Ti implants affects their osteogenic potential. Mouse preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells were seeded on machined and SLA Ti discs. The cellular activities of the discs were analyzed using confocal laser scanning microscopy, proliferation assays, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). DNA methylation was evaluated using a methylation-specific PCR. The cell morphology was slightly different between the two types of surfaces. While cellular proliferation was slightly greater on the machined surfaces, the osteogenic response of the SLA surfaces was superior, and they showed increased alkaline phosphatase (Alp) activity and higher bone marker gene expression levels (Type I collagen, Alp, and osteocalcin). The degree of DNA methylation on the Alp gene was lower on the SLA surfaces than on the machined surfaces. DNA methyltransferase inhibitor stimulated the Alp gene expression on the machined surfaces, similar to the SLA surfaces. The superior osteogenic potential of the SLA surfaces can be attributed to a different epigenetic landscape, specifically, the DNA methylation of Alp genes. This finding offers novel insights into epigenetics to supplement genetics and raises the possibility of using epidrugs as potential therapeutic targets to enhance osteogenesis on implant surfaces.
Applications of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Skin Regeneration and Rejuvenation
Authors: Jo Hantae , Brito Sofia , Kwak Byeong Mun , Park Sangkyu , Lee Mi-Gi , Bin Bum-Ho
Published: February 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem cells derived from adult stem cells. Primary MSCs can be obtained from diverse sources, including bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord blood. Recently, MSCs have been recognized as therapeutic agents for skin regeneration and rejuvenation. The skin can be damaged by wounds, caused by cutting or breaking of the tissue, and burns. Moreover, skin aging is a process that occurs naturally but can be worsened by environmental pollution, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and undernourishment. MSCs have healing capacities that can be applied in damaged and aged skin. In skin regeneration, MSCs increase cell proliferation and neovascularization, and decrease inflammation in skin injury lesions. In skin rejuvenation, MSCs lead to production of collagen and elastic fibers, inhibition of metalloproteinase activation, and promote protection from ultraviolet radiation-induced senescence. In this review, we focus on how MSCs and MSC-derived molecules improve diseased and aged skin. Additionally, we emphasize that induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived MSCs are potentially advanced MSCs, which are suitable for cell therapy.
Does Larval Rearing Diet Lead to Premating Isolation in Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)?
Authors: Di Xue-Yuan , Yan Bin , Wu Cheng-Xu , Yu Xiao-Fei , Liu Jian-Feng , Yang Mao-Fa
Published: February 2021

Host plant preference during the larval stage may help shape not only phenotypic plasticity but also behavioral isolation. We assessed the effects of diet on population parameters and mate choice in Spodoptera litura. We raised larvae fed on tobacco, Chinese cabbage, or an artificial diet, and we observed the shortest developmental time and highest fecundity in individuals fed the artificial diet. However, survival rates were higher for larvae on either of the natural diets. Population parameters including intrinsic rate of increase and finite rate of increase were significantly higher with the artificial diet, but this diet led to a lower mean generation time. Copulation duration, copulation time, and number of eggs reared significantly differed between diets. In terms of mate choice, females on the artificial diet rarely mated with males fed on a natural host. Our results support the hypothesis that different diets may promote behavioral isolation, affecting mating outcomes. Thus, findings for populations fed an artificial diet may not reflect findings for populations in the field.
Predictors Associated with Outcomes of Epidural Blood Patch in Patients with Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension
Authors: Park Jun-Young , Ro Young-Jin , Leem Jeong-Gil , Shin Jin-Woo , Oh Yul , Choi Seong-Soo
Published: February 2021

An autologous epidural blood patch (EBP) is a mainstay of treatment in patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). EBP, however, is less effective for SIH than post-dural puncture headaches. Therefore, patients with SIH frequently require an additional EBP. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with poor response to EBP. This single-center retrospective observational study used the institutional registry records of 321 patients who underwent EBP between September 2001 and March 2016. Patients were divided into two groups, a poor responder group, consisting of patients who underwent EBP at least three times or more, and a good responder group of patients who experienced sufficient symptom relief after two or fewer EBP. The demographic characteristics, clinical features, radiologic findings, procedural data, and laboratory data were analyzed. Univariate analysis showed that the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR; p = 0.004) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (p = 0.015) were significantly lower in poor than in good responders. Multivariate analysis found that NLR was the only independent factor associated with a poor response (odds ratio = 0.720; p = 0.008). These findings indicate that a low NLR was associated with three or more EBP administrations for the sufficient improvement of symptoms in patients with SIH.
Contribution of Nonverbal Cognitive Skills on Bilingual Children’s Grammatical Performance: Influence of Exposure, Task Type, and Language of Assessment
Authors: Wood Taffeta , Pratt Amy S. , Durant Kathleen , McMillen Stephanie , Peña Elizabeth D. , Bedore Lisa M.
Published: February 2021

This study explores the contribution of nonverbal working memory and processing speed on bilingual children’s morphosyntactic knowledge, after controlling for language exposure. Participants include 307 Spanish–English bilinguals in Kindergarten, second, and fourth grade (mean age = 7;8, SD = 18 months). Morphosyntactic knowledge in English and Spanish was measured using two separate language tasks: a cloze task and a narrative language task. In a series of four hierarchical linear regressions predicting cloze and narrative performance in English and Spanish, we evaluate the proportion of variance explained after adding (a) English exposure, (b) processing speed and working memory, and (c) interaction terms to the model. The results reveal the differential contribution of nonverbal cognitive skills across English and Spanish. Cognition was not significantly related to performance on either grammatical cloze or narrative tasks in Spanish. Narrative tasks in English were significantly predicted by processing speed, after controlling for age and exposure. Grammatical cloze tasks in English posed an additional cognitive demand on working memory. The findings suggest that cognitive demands vary for bilinguals based on the language of assessment and the task.
Flake (NH4)6Mo7O24/Polydopamine as a High Performance Anode for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Xie Ying , Xiong Xiang , Han Kai
Published: February 2021

Ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate ((NH4)6Mo7O24) (AMT) is commonly used as the precursor to synthesize Mo-based oxides or sulfides for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). However, the electrochemical lithium storage ability of AMT itself is unclear so far. In the present work, AMT is directly examined as a promising anode material for Li-ion batteries with good capacity and cycling stability. To further improve the electrochemical performance of AMT, AMT/polydopamine (PDA) composite was simply synthesized via recrystallization and freeze drying methods. Unlike with block shape for AMT, the as-prepared AMT/PDA composite shows flake morphology. The initial discharge capacity of AMT/PDA is reached up to 1471 mAh g−1. It delivers a reversible discharge capacity of 702 mAh g−1 at a current density of 300 mA g−1, and a stable reversible capacity of 383.6 mA h g−1 is retained at a current density of 0.5 A g−1 after 400 cycles. Moreover, the lithium storage mechanism is fully investigated. The results of this work could potentially expand the application of AMT and Mo-based anode for LIBs.
Anti-Fuzzy Multi-Ideals of Near Ring
Authors: Hoskova-Mayerova Sarka , Al Tahan Madeline
Published: February 2021

Recently, fuzzy multisets have come to the forefront of scientists’ interest and have been used for algebraic structures such as groups, rings, and near rings. In this paper, we first summarize the knowledge about algebraic structure of fuzzy multisets such as fuzzy multi-subnear rings and fuzzy multi-ideals of near rings. Then we recall the results from our related previous work, where we defined different operations on fuzzy multi-ideals of near rings and we generalized some known results for fuzzy ideals of near rings to fuzzy multi-ideals of near rings. Finally, we define anti-fuzzy multi-subnear rings (multi-ideals) of near rings and study their properties.
Biotechnological Production of the Sunscreen Pigment Scytonemin in Cyanobacteria: Progress and Strategy
Authors: Gao Xiang , Jing Xin , Liu Xufeng , Lindblad Peter
Published: February 2021

Scytonemin is a promising UV-screen and antioxidant small molecule with commercial value in cosmetics and medicine. It is solely biosynthesized in some cyanobacteria. Recently, its biosynthesis mechanism has been elucidated in the model cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme PCC 73102. The direct precursors for scytonemin biosynthesis are tryptophan and p-hydroxyphenylpyruvate, which are generated through the shikimate and aromatic amino acid biosynthesis pathway. More upstream substrates are the central carbon metabolism intermediates phosphoenolpyruvate and erythrose-4-phosphate. Thus, it is a long route to synthesize scytonemin from the fixed atmospheric CO2 in cyanobacteria. Metabolic engineering has risen as an important biotechnological means for achieving sustainable high-efficiency and high-yield target metabolites. In this review, we summarized the biochemical properties of this molecule, its biosynthetic gene clusters and transcriptional regulations, the associated carbon flux-driving progresses, and the host selection and biosynthetic strategies, with the aim to expand our understanding on engineering suitable cyanobacteria for cost-effective production of scytonemin in future practices.
Synthesis of DMEA-Grafted Anion Exchange Membrane for Adsorptive Discharge of Methyl Orange from Wastewaters
Authors: Khan Muhammad Imran , Shanableh Abdallah , Fernandez Javier , Lashari Mushtaq Hussain , Shahida Shabnam , Manzoor Suryyia , Zafar Shagufta , ur Rehman Aziz , Elboughdiri Noureddine
Published: February 2021

This manuscript describes the synthesis of dimethylethanolamine (DMEA)-grafted anion exchange membrane (AEM) by incorporating dimethylethanolamine as ion-exchange content into the polymer matrix via the solution casting method. The synthesis of the DMEA-grafted AEM was demonstrated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The prepared DMEA-grafted AEM exhibited higher thermal stability, homogeneous morphology, water uptake (WR) of 115%, and an ion exchange capacity (IEC) of 2.70 meq/g. It was used for the adsorptive removal of methyl orange (MO) from an aqueous solution via batch processing. The effect of several operating factors, including contact time, membrane dosage, initial concentration of aqueous dye solution, and temperature on the percentage discharge of MO and adsorption capacity, was evaluated. Experimental data for adsorption of MO onto the DMEA-grafted AEM was analyzed with two parameter and three parameter nonlinear adsorption isotherm models but fitted best using a nonlinear Freundlich isotherm. Adsorption kinetics were studied by using several models, and attained results showed that experimental data fitted well to pseudo-second-order kinetics. A thermodynamic study showed that adsorption of MO onto the prepared DMEA-grafted AEM was an endothermic process. Moreover, it was a feasible and spontaneous process.
Adsorption Behaviors of a Twin-Tower Hydrogen Purification System Mounted onto Staggered Stainless Steel Sheets Coated with Composite Membrane
Authors: Wu Hung-Ta , Chung Chin-Chun
Published: February 2021

Many studies have been conducted on hydrogen production, storage, purification, and transportation. The use of fixed-bed adsorption towers for hydrogen purification is common. The operating variables involved that could affect the adsorption behavior, such as the amount of adsorbents used, the flow rate, and the concentration of the adsorbate, should be discussed further. In addition, the pressure drop caused by the operation of the adsorption tower still needs to be considered. Therefore, the staggered stainless steel sheet coatings with SiO2/MCM41/activated carbon composite membrane were mounted in a twin-tower adsorption system to purify the hydrogen. Similar to the pressure swing adsorption (PSA) system, the amounts of SiO2, activated carbon, and molecular sieves used in the adsorption tower were changed into the amounts of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS), activated carbon powder, and MCM41 powder added to the casting solution. The experimental results showed that the performance of this twin-tower hydrogen purification system would not be increased when one of the target adsorbents was excessive. In addition, the outflow of non-hydrogen components was found to be early when a certain adsorbent was not sufficient. Finally, the recommended switching time for this system was set at an adsorption capacity reaching about 75% saturated capacity.
Microbial Communities of Meat and Meat Products: An Exploratory Analysis of the Product Quality and Safety at Selected Enterprises in South Africa
Authors: Madoroba Evelyn , Magwedere Kudakwashe , Chaora Nyaradzo Stella , Matle Itumeleng , Muchadeyi Farai , Mathole Masenyabu Aletta , Pierneef Rian
Published: February 2021

Consumption of food that is contaminated by microorganisms, chemicals, and toxins may lead to significant morbidity and mortality, which has negative socioeconomic and public health implications. Monitoring and surveillance of microbial diversity along the food value chain is a key component for hazard identification and evaluation of potential pathogen risks from farm to the consumer. The aim of this study was to determine the microbial diversity in meat and meat products from different enterprises and meat types in South Africa. Samples (n = 2017) were analyzed for Yersinia enterocolitica, Salmonella species, Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium perfringens, Bacillus cereus, and Clostridium botulinum using culture-based methods. PCR was used for confirmation of selected pathogens. Of the 2017 samples analyzed, microbial ecology was assessed for selected subsamples where next generation sequencing had been conducted, followed by the application of computational methods to reconstruct individual genomes from the respective sample (metagenomics). With the exception of Clostridium botulinum, selective culture-dependent methods revealed that samples were contaminated with at least one of the tested foodborne pathogens. The data from metagenomics analysis revealed the presence of diverse bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The analyses provide evidence of diverse and highly variable microbial communities in products of animal origin, which is important for food safety, food labeling, biosecurity, and shelf life limiting spoilage by microorganisms.
Petrogenesis of Granitic Rocks in the Hisakajima Island, Goto Archipelago, Southwestern Japan: A Geochemical Study
Authors: Koga Kazuhiro , Tsuboi Motohiro
Published: February 2021

Whole-rock chemical compositions including rare earth elements for the granitic rocks from the Hisakajima Island, Goto Archipelago, southwestern Japan were measured in order to constrain their origin and petrogenesis. The granites were divided into two types—a granodioritic group (GD) and a high Fe/Mg ratio granitic group (HFG). The granitic magma was formed by the upwelling of high-temperature mantle material, which might be related to the extension of the Japan Sea around the Middle Miocene. The origin of the GD magma was attributed to the mantle material, while the origin of the HFG magma was attributed to partial melting of the crust by upwelling of the high-temperature mantle. The amount of rare earth elements revealed the secondary addition of light rare earth elements through hydrothermal processes for the granites. Chondrite normalized rare earth element patterns revealed that the HFG rocks were not well differentiated.
Four Isotope-Labeled Recombination Pathways of Ozone Formation
Authors: Babikov Dmitri , Grushnikova Elizaveta , Gayday Igor , Teplukhin Alexander
Published: February 2021

A theoretical approach is developed for the description of all possible recombination pathways in the ozone forming reaction, without neglecting any process a priori, and without decoupling the individual pathways one from another. These pathways become physically distinct when a rare isotope of oxygen is introduced, such as 18O, which represents a sensitive probe of the ozone forming reaction. Each isotopologue of O3 contains two types of physically distinct entrance channels and two types of physically distinct product wells, creating four recombination pathways. Calculations are done for singly and doubly substituted isotopologues of ozone, eight rate coefficients total. Two pathways for the formation of asymmetric ozone isotopomer exhibit rather different rate coefficients, indicating large isotope effect driven by ΔZPE-difference. Rate coefficient for the formation of symmetric isotopomer of ozone (third pathway) is found to be in between of those two, while the rate of insertion pathway is smaller by two orders of magnitude. These trends are in good agreement with experiments, for both singly and doubly substituted ozone. The total formation rates for asymmetric isotopomers are found to be somewhat larger than those for symmetric isotopomers, but not as much as in the experiment. Overall, the distribution of lifetimes is found to be very similar for the metastable states in symmetric and asymmetric ozone isotopomers.
Effect of Syringopicroside Extracted from Syringa oblata Lindl on the Biofilm Formation of Streptococcus suis
Authors: Tang Yang , Bai Jingwen , Yang Yu , Bai Xuedong , Bello-Onaghise God’spower , Xu Yaqin , Li Yanhua
Published: February 2021

Syringopicroside is a natural drug with antibacterial activity, which is the main ingredient of Syringa oblata Lindl (S. oblata). In order to further develop the application of S. oblata and evaluate the ability of syringopicroside against Streptococcus suis (S. suis), this investigation first applied an ultrasonic-assisted method to extract syringopicroside, and then response surface methodology (RSM) was performed to get the optimum condition. Based on RSM analysis, a second-order polynomial equation about the syringopicroside yield and four variables, including ultrasonic power, time, temperature, and liquid-to-solid ratio, was purposed. Through RSM prediction and model verification experiments, the optimum conditions were determined, as follows: ultrasonic time was 63 min, temperature was 60 °C, a liquid-to-solid ratio was set to 63 mL/g, and ultrasonic power was 835 W. Under this condition, a high syringopicroside yield was obtained (3.07 ± 0.13 mg/g), which was not significantly different with a predicated value. After separation and purification by HPD 500 microporous resin, then mass spectrum was applied to identify the main ingredient in aqueous extract. A minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay revealed the value against S. suis of syringopicroside was 2.56 µg/µL and syringopicroside with sub-inhibitory concentrations that could effectively inhibit biofilm formation of S. suis. Besides, scanning electron microscopy analysis indicated syringopicroside could destroy the multi-layered aggregation structure of S. suis. Finally, molecular docking analysis confirmed that syringopicroside was combined with Orfy protein of S. suis through hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interaction, and π-π stacking.
High Effective Preparation of Amorphous-Like Si Nanoparticles Using Spark Erosion Followed by Bead Milling
Authors: Zhao Mingcai , Zhang Juan , Wang Wei , Zhang Qi
Published: February 2021

This work aims to prepare the silicon nanoparticles with the nanocrystal-embedded amorphous structure through spark erosion followed by bead milling. Spark erosion breaks up monocrystal silicon ingots into micro/nanoparticles, refines the crystal grains, makes the crystals randomly disordered, and increases isotropic character. Bead milling further refines the crystal grains to a few nanometers and increases the amorphous portion in the structure, eventually forming an amorphous structure with the nanocrystals embedded. Spark erosion saves much time and energy for bead milling. The crystallite size and the amount of amorphous phase could be controlled through varying pulse durations of spark discharge and bead milling time. The final particles could contain the nanocrystals as small as 4 nm and the content of amorphous phase as high as 84% and could be considered as amorphous-like Si nanoparticles. This processing route for Si nanoparticles greatly reduced the production time and the energy consumption and, more importantly, is structure-controllable and scalable for mass production of the products with higher purity.
Calcium Silicate-Based Biocompatible Light-Curable Dental Material for Dental Pulpal Complex
Authors: Park Sung-Min , Rhee Woo-Rim , Park Kyu-Min , Kim Yu-Jin , Ahn Junyong , Knowles Jonathan C. , Kim Jongbin , Shin Jisun , Jang Tae-Su , Jun Soo-Kyung , Lee Hae-Hyoung , Lee Jung-Hwan
Published: February 2021

Dental caries causes tooth defects and clinical treatment is essential. To prevent further damage and protect healthy teeth, appropriate dental material is a need. However, the biocompatibility of dental material is needed to secure the oral environment. For this purpose, biocompatible materials were investigated for incorporated with dental capping material. Among them, nanomaterials are applied to dental materials to enhance their chemical, mechanical, and biological properties. This research aimed to study the physicochemical and mechanical properties and biocompatibility of a recently introduced light-curable mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA)-like material without bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA). To overcome the compromised mechanical properties in the absence of Bis-GMA, silica nanoparticles were synthesized and blended with a dental polymer for the formation of a nano-network. This material was compared with a conventional light-curable MTA-like material that contains Bis-GMA. Investigation of the physiochemical properties followed ISO 4049. Hydroxyl and calcium ion release from the materials was measured over 21 days. The Vickers hardness test and three-point flexural strength test were used to assess the mechanical properties. Specimens were immersed in solutions that mimicked human body plasma for seven days, and surface characteristics were analyzed. Biological properties were assessed by cytotoxicity and biomineralization tests. There was no significant difference between the tested materials with respect to overall physicochemical properties and released calcium ions. The newly produced material released more calcium ions on the third day, but 14 days later, the other material containing Bis-GMA released higher levels of calcium ions. The microhardness was reduced in a low pH environment, and differences between the specimens were observed. The flexural strength of the newly developed material was significantly higher, and different surface morphologies were detected. The recently produced extract showed higher cell viability at an extract concentration of 100%, while mineralization was clear at the conventional concentration of 25%. No significant changes in the physical properties between Bis-GMA incorporate material and nanoparticle incorporate materials.
Is the Letter ‘t’ in the Word ‘gourmet’? Disruption in Task-Evoked Connectivity Networks in Adults with Impaired Literacy Skills
Authors: Cheema Kulpreet , Hodgetts William E. , Cummine Jacqueline
Published: February 2021

Much work has been done to characterize domain-specific brain networks associated with reading, but very little work has been done with respect to spelling. Our aim was to characterize domain-specific spelling networks (SpNs) and domain-general resting state networks (RSNs) in adults with and without literacy impairments. Skilled and impaired adults were recruited from the University of Alberta. Participants completed three conditions of an in-scanner spelling task called a letter probe task (LPT). We found highly connected SpNs for both groups of individuals, albeit comparatively more connections for skilled (50) vs. impaired (43) readers. Notably, the SpNs did not correlate with spelling behaviour for either group. We also found relationships between SpNs and RSNs for both groups of individuals, this time with comparatively fewer connections for skilled (36) vs. impaired (53) readers. Finally, the RSNs did predict spelling performance in a limited manner for the skilled readers. These results advance our understanding of brain networks associated with spelling and add to the growing body of literature that describes the important and intricate connections between domain-specific networks and domain-general networks (i.e., resting states) in individuals with and without developmental disorders.
Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Carnosic Acid and Carnosol in Standardized Rosemary Extract and the Effect on the Disease Activity Index of DSS-Induced Colitis
Authors: Veenstra Jacob P. , Vemu Bhaskar , Tocmo Restituto , Nauman Mirielle C. , Johnson Jeremy J.
Published: February 2021

Rosemary extract (RE) is an approved food preservative in the European Union and contains dietary phytochemicals that are beneficial for gastrointestinal health. This study investigated the effects of RE on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis and also determined the pharmacokinetics of dietary phytochemicals administered to mice via oral gavage. Individual components of rosemary extract were separated and identified by LC–MS/MS. The pharmacokinetics of two major diterpenes from RE, carnosic acid (CA) and carnosol (CL), administered to mice via oral gavage were determined. Then, the effect of RE pre-treatment on the disease activity index (DAI) of DSS-induced colitis in mice was investigated. The study determined that 100 mg/kg RE significantly improved DAI in DSS-induced colitis compared to negative control. Sestrin 2 protein expression, which increased with DSS exposure, was reduced with RE treatment. Intestinal barrier integrity was also shown to improve via fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)–dextran administration and Western blot of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), a tight junction protein. Rosemary extract was able to improve the DAI of DSS-induced colitis in mice at a daily dose of 100 mg/kg and showed improvement in the intestinal barrier integrity. This study suggests that RE can be an effective preventative agent against IBD.
Global e-Learning in Early Nutrition and Lifestyle for International Healthcare Professionals: Design and Evaluation of the Early Nutrition Specialist Programme (ENS)
Authors: Brands Brigitte , Tran Ngoc Nhan , Baudendistel-Happ Erin , Sanchez-Garcia Marina , Fischer Martin R. , Koletzko Berthold
Published: February 2021

Background: Every encounter a healthcare professional has with new or expecting parents offers an opportunity for addressing improved early nutrition and lifestyle. Evidence-based qualification programmes via e-learning offer valuable tools for attenuating the world’s huge double burden of both under- and overnutrition in early childhood. We evaluated use and learner satisfaction of a global e-learning programme on early nutrition and lifestyle addressing international healthcare professionals. Methods: We implemented the Early Nutrition Specialist Programme (ENS) with six interactive e-learning courses on early nutrition building on more than ten years of experience with global e-learning platforms, expert knowledge and an international network in the subject field. We collected descriptive and explorative evaluation data on usage and learner satisfaction with a questionnaire and log data over three years among 4003 learners from 48 countries. Results: Results show high completion of the ENS programme, with 85.5% of learners finalizing the programme after enrollment into the first of six courses. Very good results were provided for learner satisfaction with the courses (96.7% of users), for increasing understanding of the topic (97.4%) and matching the indicated time investment (94.4%). Most predominant themes in the open text fields of user feedback questionnaires were “Increase interactivity or number of audio-visuals”, “Content suggestions or more examples” and “Technical (quality) issues or navigation problems”. Conclusions: The ENS programme evaluation shows high completion rates and level of satisfaction by learners from numerous countries. The different needs for Continuing Medical Education (CME) of healthcare professionals in diverse healthcare system settings can be met by a joint e-learning qualification programme. Further optimizations will be implemented based on user feedback. More research with a learning analytics approach may help to further identify the most effective and efficient didactic and pedagogic elements of e-learning.
Nutritional Assessment in Adult Patients with Dysphagia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ueshima Junko , Momosaki Ryo , Shimizu Akio , Motokawa Keiko , Sonoi Mika , Shirai Yuka , Uno Chiharu , Kokura Yoji , Shimizu Midori , Nishiyama Ai , Moriyama Daisuke , Yamamoto Kaori , Sakai Kotomi
Published: February 2021

Malnutrition negatively affects the quality of life of patients with dysphagia. Despite the need for nutritional status assessment in patients with dysphagia, standard, effective nutritional assessments are not yet available, and the identification of optimal nutritional assessment items for patients with dysphagia is inadequate. We conducted a scoping review of the use of nutritional assessment items in adult patients with oropharyngeal and esophageal dysphagia. The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched to identify articles published in English within the last 30 years. Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. Seven nutritional assessment categories were identified: body mass index (BMI), nutritional screening tool, anthropometric measurements, body composition, dietary assessment, blood biomarkers, and other. BMI and albumin were more commonly assessed in adults. The Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM), defining new diagnostic criteria for malnutrition, includes the categories of BMI, nutritional screening tool, anthropometric measurements, body composition, and dietary assessment as its required components, but not the blood biomarkers and the “other” categories. We recommend assessing nutritional status, including GLIM criteria, in adult patients with dysphagia. This would standardize nutritional assessments in patients with dysphagia and allow future global comparisons of the prevalence and outcomes of malnutrition, as well as of appropriate interventions.
Dietary Acrylamide Intake and the Risks of Renal Cell, Prostate, and Bladder Cancers: A Japan Public Health Center-Based Prospective Study
Authors: Ikeda Sayaka , Sobue Tomotaka , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Ishihara Junko , Kotemori Ayaka , Zha Ling , Liu Rong , Sawada Norie , Iwasaki Motoki , Tsugane Shoichiro , on behalf of the JPHC Study Group
Published: February 2021

Acrylamide can be carcinogenic to humans. However, the association between the acrylamide and the risks of renal cell, prostate, and bladder cancers in Asians has not been assessed. We aimed to investigate this association in the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study data in 88,818 Japanese people (41,534 men and 47,284 women) who completed a food frequency questionnaire in the five-year follow-up survey in 1995 and 1998. A validated food frequency questionnaire was used to assess the dietary acrylamide intake. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). During a mean follow-up of 15.5 years (15.2 years of prostate cancer), 208 renal cell cancers, 1195 prostate cancers, and 392 bladder cancers were diagnosed. Compared to the lowest quintile of acrylamide intake, the multivariate hazard ratios for the highest quintile were 0.71 (95% CI: 0.38–1.34, p for trend = 0.294), 0.96 (95% CI: 0.75–1.22, p for trend = 0.726), and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.59–1.29, p for trend = 0.491) for renal cell, prostate, and bladder cancers, respectively, in the multivariate-adjusted model. No significant associations were observed in the stratified analyses based on smoking. Dietary acrylamide intake was not associated with the risk of renal cell, prostate, and bladder cancers.