Production of microbial lipids

Orientadores: Telma Teixeira Franco, Saartje HermalsteensDissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Faculdade de Engenharia QuimicaResumo: Neste trabalho foram desenvolvidos estudos visando o estabelecimento de um processo de produção de lipídeos microbianos a partir de fontes renováveis, particularmente xilose, carboidrato derivado do processo de hidrólise de bagaço de cana-de-açucar e que em breve deverá estar disponível para fermentação. Inicialmente foi verificada a influência da fonte de nitrogênio e a relação inicial carbono-nitrogênio sobre o processo de acúmulo delipídeos utilizando duas linhagens características. A utilização de sulfato de amônio juntocom extrato de levedura em uma relação C/N de 50 g/g foi adequada para o processo de produção de lipídeos. A seguir, 25 leveduras oleaginosas foram testadas quanto a sua capacidade de assimilação de xilose e produção de lipídeos. A produtividade de produção de lipídeos e elevado rendimento energético da levedura Lipomyces starkeyi DSM 70296 permitiram sua escolha para as etapas posteriores. Estudos de inibição por substrato foram desenvolvidos e diferentes modelos matemáticos foram ajustados aos dados experimentais. O modelo de Mulchandani representou adequadamente a cinética de inibição. Um modelo do cultivo em batelada simples foi desenvolvido baseado nos dados cinéticos obtidos, o qual foi validado para cultivo com limitação de nitrogênio em biorreator de dois litros. A análise de composição dos lipídeos obtidos mostrou semelhança à de fontes vegetais. Finalmente, dois modos de operação em batelada alimentada foram testados, o modo de alimentação simples aumentou significativamente a produtividade do processo quando comparado ao processo em batelada simples convencional. A alimentação usando pH-amônio/auxostat seguida de alimentação de carbono dobrou a concentração celular final obtida nos modos anteriores, mantendo níveis de acúmulo aceitáveis. Assim, um processo de produção de lipídeos a partir de pentoses foi viabilizado, adicionalmente o lipídeo produzido atende as especificações necessárias do valor cetano para a produção de biodiesel.Abstract: Studies attempting the establishment of a microbial lipid production process from renewable resources, mainly xylose, were developed. This pentose, obtained from sugar cane bagasse hydrolysis, is expected to be available in large quantities and is going to be used as a substrate in fermentation processes in the near future. Initially, the effects of nitrogen source and initial carbon to nitrogen ratio over the lipid accumulation process were tested using two typical oleaginous strains. The joint use of ammonium sulphate plus yeast extract at an initial C/N ratio of 50 g/g were determined as adequate conditions for induction of lipid production with these yeasts. Subsequently in this work, 25 oleaginous yeasts were tested in order to evaluate the ability to consume xylose and lipid production. As a result of this stage, Lipomyces starkeyi DSM 70296 was selected regarding its highest productivity and energetic yield over all the set of yeasts evaluated. Thus, this strain was used in the development of the later studies. Substrate inhibition studies were developed and several mathematical models were adjusted to the experimental data. The Mulchandani model fitted well the substrate inhibition kinetics. Based on the kinetics obtained in shake flask fermentation, a batch model that represents the behavior of the principal variables in the time was developed. The model proposed was validated successfully using a set of data from two liters bioreactor cultivation. The composition of the obtained lipids was very similar of those from vegetal sources. Finally, two fed-batch operation modes were tested intending to get higher lipid productivities. In this direction, simple carbon fed-batch operation showed better productivities than those obtained from simple batch. Nitrogen fed using the pHamonium/auxostat mode followed by carbon fed duplicated the final cellular concentration obtained in the other modes tested, maintaining an adequate lipid content. Therefore, a process for lipid production was developed, additionally; the lipids obtained attend the cetane value specifications required for biodiesel production.MestradoDesenvolvimento de Processos QuímicosMestre em Engenharia Químic

BAJOCIAN LISSOCERATINAE (HAPLOCERATOIDEA, AMMONITIDA) FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN-CAUCASIAN SUBREALM

A revision of the Bajocian Lissoceratinae is presented. The study of a huge quantity of lissoceratins from different sites of the Western Tethys (Northwest European, Sub-Mediterranean and Mediterranean bioprovinces) within the Tethys-Panthalassa Realm provided data useful to implement the systematics of these almost neglected, never deeply analysed ammonites. Two genera, Lissoceras Bayle and Semilissoceras n. gen., are described with 16 species, among which 8 (four dimorphic, three macroconchiate and one microconchiate) new species: L. submediterraneum, L. maizetense, L. ovale, L. sturanii, L. maerteni, S. ellipticum, S. turgidulum and S. costellatum. The neotype of L. oolithicum is established. The microconchiate genus Microlissoceras is regarded as the junior synonym of the macroconchiate Lissoceras. Taxa are discussed according to four groups that gather taxa sharing common morpho-structural features. They roughly relate to successive biochronostratigraphical intervals within the Bajocian Stage and are headed by species largely known in literature: S. semicostulatum (Buckman) with suboval to compressed whorl section and rectiradiate ribs on the outer half flank; L. oolithicum (d’Orbigny) with subtriangular to ovate whorl section, large and depressed ventral saddle, large suspensive lobe; L. haugi Sturani with ovate to globular whorl section, narrow lobe E and suspensive lobe; and L. psilodiscus (Schloenbach) with highly compressed whorl section, high ventral saddle and narrow lobe E. The phyletic relation of Lissoceras and Semilissoceras to the Aalenian-Bajocian Bradfordia-group is discussed, regarding Semilissoceras as the known stem-taxon on which the subfamily Lissoceratinae bases

Facile Surfactant-Assisted Synthesis of BiVO4 Nanoparticulate Films for Solar Water Splitting

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4), which has attractive applicability as a photoactive material, presents applications that range from catalysis to water treatment upon visible light irradiation. In this study, we develop a simple synthesis of < 200 nm monoclinic BiVO4 nanoparticles, which were further deposited on transparent conductive substrates by spin coating and calcination, obtaining nanostructured films. The obtained nanostructured BiVO4 photoanodes were tested for water oxidation, leading to promising photocurrents exhibiting competitive onset potentials (~0.3 V vs. RHE). These nanoparticulate BiVO4 photoanodes represent a novel class of highly potential materials for the design of efficient photoelectrochemical devices

The role of crystal facets and disorder on photo-electrosynthesis

Photoelectrochemistry has the potential to play a crucial role in the storage of solar energy and the realisation of a circular economy. From a chemical viewpoint, achieving high conversion efficiencies requires subtle control of the catalyst surface and its interaction with the electrolyte. Traditionally, such control has been hard to achieve in the complex multinary oxides used in PEC devices and consequently the mechanisms by which surface exposed facets influence light-driven catalysts are poorly understood. Yet, this understanding is critical to further improve conversion yields and fine-tune reaction selectivities. Here, we review the impact that crystal facets and disorder have on photoelectrochemical reactivity. In particular, we discuss how the crystal orientation influences the energetics of the surface, the existence of defects and the transport of reactive charges, ultimately dictating the PEC activity. Moreover, we evaluate how facet stability dictates the tendency of the solid to undergo reconstructions during catalytic processes and highlight the experimental and computational challenges that must be overcome to characterise the role of the exposed facets and disorder in catalytic performance

Switchable All Inorganic Halide Perovskite Nanocrystalline Photoelectrodes for Solar-Driven Organic Transformations

All inorganic halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) are considered as fascinating materials for a wide range of optoelectronic applications encompassing photovoltaics, lasing, sensing, and photocatalysis due to their outstanding optoelectronic properties. Herein, it is demonstrated that the photoelectrochemical behavior of CsPbBr3 NC films can be tailored through engineering the selective contacts and accepting species in the electrolyte. This concept has been successfully applied to the photoelectrochemical oxidation of benzyl alcohol (BzOH) to benzyl aldehyde (BzCHO) and the reverse photoelectrochemical reduction of BzCHO to BzOH, demonstrating that CsPbBr3 NCs activate both reactions with photocurrents up to 40 μA cm 2 toward BzCHO production and 5 μA cm 2 for the reverse reaction at 0.15 V versus normal hydrogen electrode. The obtained results highlight the huge potential and versatility of halide perovskite NCs for photoelectrocatalytic applications, validating the implementation of these materials for a wide range of solar-driven complex organic transformations, and emphasizing the urgent need for stabilization strategies to move beyond the proof-of-concept stage to relevant technological developments

Association between insulin resistance and c-reactive protein among Peruvian adults

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Objective</p> <p>Insulin resistance (IR), a reduced physiological response of peripheral tissues to the action of insulin, is one of the major causes of type 2 diabetes. We sought to evaluate the relationship between serum C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of systemic inflammation, and prevalence of IR among Peruvian adults.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>This population based study of 1,525 individuals (569 men and 956 women; mean age 39 years old) was conducted among residents in Lima and Callao, Peru. Fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and CRP concentrations were measured using standard approaches. Insulin resistance was assessed using the homeostasis model (HOMA-IR). Categories of CRP were defined by the following tertiles: <0.81 mg/l, 0.81-2.53 mg/l, and >2.53 mg/l. Logistic regression procedures were employed to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Elevated CRP were significantly associated with increased mean fasting insulin and mean HOMA-IR concentrations (p < 0.001). Women with CRP concentration >2.53 mg/l (upper tertile) had a 2.18-fold increased risk of IR (OR = 2.18 95% CI 1.51-3.16) as compared with those in the lowest tertile (<0.81 mg/l). Among men, those in the upper tertile had a 2.54-fold increased risk of IR (OR = 2.54 95% CI 1.54-4.20) as compared with those in the lowest tertile.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Our observations among Peruvians suggest that chronic systemic inflammation, as evidenced by elevated CRP, may be of etiologic importance in insulin resistance and diabetes.</p

Clinical reappraisal of SHORT syndrome with PIK3R1 mutations: towards recommendation for molecular testing and management

International audienceSHORT syndrome has historically been defined by its acronym: short stature (S), hyperextensibility of joints and/or inguinal hernia (H), ocular depression (O), Rieger abnormality (R) and teething delay (T). More recently several research groups have identified PIK3R1 mutations as responsible for SHORT syndrome. Knowledge of the molecular etiology of SHORT syndrome has permitted a reassessment of the clinical phenotype. The detailed phenotypes of 32 individuals with SHORT syndrome and PIK3R1 mutation, including eight newly ascertained individuals, were studied to fully define the syndrome and the indications for PIK3R1 testing. The major features described in the SHORT acronym were not universally seen and only half (52%) had 4 or more of the classic features. The commonly observed clinical features of SHORT syndrome seen in the cohort included IUGR \textless 10(th) percentile, postnatal growth restriction, lipoatrophy and the characteristic facial gestalt. Anterior chamber defects and insulin resistance or diabetes were also observed but were not as prevalent. The less specific, or minor features of SHORT syndrome include teething delay, thin wrinkled skin, speech delay, sensorineural deafness, hyperextensibility of joints and inguinal hernia. Given the high risk of diabetes mellitus, regular monitoring of glucose metabolism is warranted. An echocardiogram, ophthalmological and hearing assessments are also recommended

Diagnosis and management in Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome:first international consensus statement

Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome (RTS) is an archetypical genetic syndrome that is characterised by intellectual disability, well-defined facial features, distal limb anomalies and atypical growth, among numerous other signs and symptoms. It is caused by variants in either of two genes (CREBBP, EP300) which encode for the proteins CBP and p300, which both have a function in transcription regulation and histone acetylation. As a group of international experts and national support groups dedicated to the syndrome, we realised that marked heterogeneity currently exists in clinical and molecular diagnostic approaches and care practices in various parts of the world. Here, we outline a series of recommendations that document the consensus of a group of international experts on clinical diagnostic criteria for types of RTS (RTS1: CREBBP; RTS2: EP300), molecular investigations, long-term management of various particular physical and behavioural issues and care planning. The recommendations as presented here will need to be evaluated for improvements to allow for continued optimisation of diagnostics and care.</p

Effects of hospital facilities on patient outcomes after cancer surgery: an international, prospective, observational study

Background Early death after cancer surgery is higher in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) compared with in high-income countries, yet the impact of facility characteristics on early postoperative outcomes is unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the association between hospital infrastructure, resource availability, and processes on early outcomes after cancer surgery worldwide.Methods A multimethods analysis was performed as part of the GlobalSurg 3 study-a multicentre, international, prospective cohort study of patients who had surgery for breast, colorectal, or gastric cancer. The primary outcomes were 30-day mortality and 30-day major complication rates. Potentially beneficial hospital facilities were identified by variable selection to select those associated with 30-day mortality. Adjusted outcomes were determined using generalised estimating equations to account for patient characteristics and country-income group, with population stratification by hospital.Findings Between April 1, 2018, and April 23, 2019, facility-level data were collected for 9685 patients across 238 hospitals in 66 countries (91 hospitals in 20 high-income countries; 57 hospitals in 19 upper-middle-income countries; and 90 hospitals in 27 low-income to lower-middle-income countries). The availability of five hospital facilities was inversely associated with mortality: ultrasound, CT scanner, critical care unit, opioid analgesia, and oncologist. After adjustment for case-mix and country income group, hospitals with three or fewer of these facilities (62 hospitals, 1294 patients) had higher mortality compared with those with four or five (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 3.85 [95% CI 2.58-5.75]; p&lt;0.0001), with excess mortality predominantly explained by a limited capacity to rescue following the development of major complications (63.0% vs 82.7%; OR 0.35 [0.23-0.53]; p&lt;0.0001). Across LMICs, improvements in hospital facilities would prevent one to three deaths for every 100 patients undergoing surgery for cancer.Interpretation Hospitals with higher levels of infrastructure and resources have better outcomes after cancer surgery, independent of country income. Without urgent strengthening of hospital infrastructure and resources, the reductions in cancer-associated mortality associated with improved access will not be realised