bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant Cardioprotection against Reperfusion Injury: Potential Therapeutic Roles of Resveratrol and Quercetin
Authors: Rodrigo Ramón , Retamal Catalina , Schupper Denisse , Vergara-Hernández Diego , Saha Sarmistha , Profumo Elisabetta , Buttari Brigitta , Saso Luciano
Published: April 2022

Ischemia-reperfusion myocardial damage is a paradoxical tissue injury occurring during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients. Although this damage could account for up to 50% of the final infarct size, there has been no available pharmacological treatment until now. Oxidative stress contributes to the underlying production mechanism, exerting the most marked injury during the early onset of reperfusion. So far, antioxidants have been shown to protect the AMI patients undergoing PCI to mitigate these detrimental effects; however, no clinical trials to date have shown any significant infarct size reduction. Therefore, it is worthwhile to consider multitarget antioxidant therapies targeting multifactorial AMI. Indeed, this clinical setting involves injurious effects derived from oxygen deprivation, intracellular pH changes and increased concentration of cytosolic Ca2+ and reactive oxygen species, among others. Thus, we will review a brief overview of the pathological cascades involved in ischemia-reperfusion injury and the potential therapeutic effects based on preclinical studies involving a combination of antioxidants, with particular reference to resveratrol and quercetin, which could contribute to cardioprotection against ischemia-reperfusion injury in myocardial tissue. We will also highlight the upcoming perspectives of these antioxidants for designing future studies.
Structure and Intermolecular Interactions in Aqueous Solutions of Polyethylene Glycol
Authors: Almásy László , Artykulnyi Oleksandr P. , Petrenko Viktor I. , Ivankov Oleksandr I. , Bulavin Leonid A. , Yan Minhao , Haramus Vasil M.
Published: April 2022

Aqueous solutions of polyethylene glycol are studied by small-angle neutron scattering over a broad range of polymer molecular masses and concentrations. The scattering data were modeled by a Gaussian chain form factor combined with random phase approximation, which provided good fits over the whole studied concentration range. The results showed that polyethylene glycol in the molecular mass range 0.4–20 kDa in water at physiological temperature T = 37 °C behaves like a random coil in nearly theta solvent conditions. The obtained results serve as a reference for the description of complex mixtures with PEG used in various applications.
Polyphenol Extract from “Greco” Grape Canes: Characterization, Antioxidant Capacity, and Antitumor Effects on Cal-33 and JHU-SCC-011 Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Squillaci Giuseppe , Vitiello Francesca , Mosca Laura , La Cara Francesco , Cacciapuoti Giovanna , Porcelli Marina , Morana Alessandra
Published: April 2022

In the current study, we determined the antioxidant properties of “Greco” grape cane extracts, a typical cultivar of southern Italy. We also explored the anticancer activity of the polyphenol-rich fraction of the extract on head and neck squamous carcinoma cells (HNSCC) and investigated the underlying mechanism. Aqueous extracts were prepared at different pHs and extraction times and the total phenolic and reducing sugar contents were estimated. Radical Scavenging Activity (RSA), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) of the extracts were measured. A polyphenol-rich fraction, accounting for 6.7% by weight and characterized mainly by procyanidins and stilbenoids, was prepared from the extract obtained at pH 7 for 60 min. We demonstrated that the extract exerted a cytotoxic effect on HNSCC cell lines by inducing cell cycle arrest via cyclin downregulation and p21 upregulation, and by triggering apoptosis through caspase cascade activation, PARP-1 cleavage, and an increase in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. We furnished evidence that the polyphenol-rich fraction played the major role in the anticancer activity of the extract. These outcomes highlighted grape canes from the “Greco” cultivar as a valuable source of polyphenols that may represent good candidates for the design of innovative adjuvant therapies in the treatment of HNSCC.
Thermodynamic Signatures of Structural Transitions and Dissociation of Charged Colloidal Clusters: A Parallel Tempering Monte Carlo Study
Authors: Prudente Frederico V. , Marques Jorge M. C.
Published: April 2022

Computational simulation of colloidal systems make use of empirical interaction potentials that are founded in well-established theory. In this work, we have performed parallel tempering Monte Carlo (PTMC) simulations to calculate heat capacity and to assess structural transitions, which may occur in charged colloidal clusters whose effective interactions are described by a sum of pair potentials with attractive short-range and repulsive long-range components. Previous studies on these systems have shown that the global minimum structure varies from spherical-type shapes for small-size clusters to Bernal spiral and “beaded-necklace” shapes at intermediate and larger sizes, respectively. In order to study both structural transitions and dissociation, we have organized the structures appearing in the PTMC calculations by three sets according to their energy: (i) low-energy structures, including the global minimum; (ii) intermediate-energy “beaded-necklace” motifs; (iii) high-energy linear and branched structures that characterize the dissociative clusters. We observe that, depending on the cluster, either peaks or shoulders on the heat–capacity curve constitute thermodynamics signatures of dissociation and structural transitions. The dissociation occurs at T=0.20 for all studied clusters and it is characterized by the appearance of a significant number of linear structures, while the structural transitions corresponding to unrolling the Bernal spiral are quite dependent on the size of the colloidal system.
Covalent Organic Frameworks for Chemical and Biological Sensing
Authors: Zhang Shiji , Liu Danqing , Wang Guangtong
Published: April 2022

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are a class of crystalline porous organic polymers with polygonal porosity and highly ordered structures. The most prominent feature of the COFs is their excellent crystallinity and highly ordered modifiable one-dimensional pores. Since the first report of them in 2005, COFs with various structures were successfully synthesized and their applications in a wide range of fields including gas storage, pollution removal, catalysis, and optoelectronics explored. In the meantime, COFs also exhibited good performance in chemical and biological sensing, because their highly ordered modifiable pores allowed the selective adsorption of the analytes, and the interaction between the analytes and the COFs’ skeletons may lead to a detectable change in the optical or electrical properties of the COFs. In this review, we firstly demonstrate the basic principles of COFs-based chemical and biological sensing, then briefly summarize the applications of COFs in sensing some substances of practical value, including some gases, ions, organic compounds, and biomolecules. Finally, we discuss the trends and the challenges of COFs-based chemical and biological sensing.
Characterization of Primary Action Mode of Eight Essential Oils and Evaluation of Their Antibacterial Effect against Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase (ESBL)-Producing Escherichia coli Inoculated in Turkey Meat
Authors: Aouadhi Chedia , Jouini Ahlem , Mechichi Dhekra , Boulares Mouna , Hamrouni Safa , Maaroufi Abderrazak
Published: April 2022

The current study aims to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of eight essential oils (EOs) against multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli strains, producing extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) enzymes and isolated from foods. Disc-diffusion assay showed that the inhibition diameters generated by EOs varied significantly among the tested EOs and strains. In fact, EOs extracted from Thymus capitaus, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Trachyspermum ammi and Mentha pulegium exerted an important antimicrobial effect against tested strains, with the diameters of inhibition zones varied between 20 and 27 mm. Moreover, minimal inhibition and bactericidal concentration (MIC and MBC) values demonstrated that T. capitatus EOs generate the most important inhibitory effect against E. coli strains, with MIC values ranging from 0.02 to 0.78%. Concerning the mode of action of T. capitatus EO, the obtained data showed that treatment with this EO at its MIC reduced the viability of E. coli strains, their tolerance to NaCl and promoted the loss of 260-nm-absorbing material. In addition, in the presence of T. capitatus EO, cells became disproportionately sensitive to subsequent autolysis. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of T. capitatus was evaluated against two E. coli strains, experimentally inoculated (105 CFU/g) in minced turkey meat, in the presence of two different concentrations of EO (MIC and 2 × MIC), and stored for 15 days. In both samples, EO exerted a bacteriostatic effect in the presence of concentrations equal to MIC. Interestingly, at 2 × CMI concentration, the bactericidal activity was pronounced after 15 days of storage. Our results highlighted that the use of essential oils, specially of T. capitatus, to inhibit or prevent the growth of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli in food, may be a promising alternative to chemicals.
Doxorubicin-Conjugated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles, Biogenically Synthesised Using a Fungus Aspergillus niger, Exhibit High Therapeutic Efficacy against Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Mishra Prakriti , Ahmad Afza , Al-Keridis Lamya Ahmed , Alshammari Nawaf , Alabdallah Nadiyah M. , Muzammil Khursheed , Saeed Mohd , Ansari Irfan Ahmad
Published: April 2022

This study reports the therapeutic effectiveness of doxorubicin-conjugated zinc oxide nanoparticles against lung cancer cell line. The zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were first synthesised using a fungus, isolated from air with an extraordinary capability to survive in very high concentrations of zinc salt. Molecular analysis based on 18S rRNA gene sequencing led to its identification as Aspergillus niger with the NCBI accession no. OL636020. The fungus was found to produce ZnONPs via the reduction of zinc ions from zinc sulphate. The ZnONPs were characterised by various biophysical techniques. ZnONPs were further bioconjugated with the anti-cancer drug doxorubicin (DOX), which was further confirmed by different physical techniques. Furthermore, we examined the cytotoxic efficacy of Doxorubicin-bioconjugated-ZnONPs (DOX-ZnONPs) against lung cancer A549 cells in comparison to ZnONPs and DOX alone. The cytotoxicity caused due to ZnONPs, DOX and DOX-ZnONPs in lung cancer A549 cells was assessed by MTT assay. DOX-ZnONPs strongly inhibited the proliferation of A549 with IC50 value of 0.34 μg/mL, which is lower than IC50 of DOX alone (0.56 μg/mL). Moreover, DOX-ZnONPs treated cells also showed increased nuclear condensation, enhanced ROS generation in cytosol and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential. To investigate the induction of apoptosis, caspase-3 activity was measured in all the treated groups. Conclusively, results of our study have established that DOX-ZnONPs have strong therapeutic efficacy to inhibit the growth of lung cancer cells in comparison to DOX alone. Our study also offers substantial evidence for the biogenically synthesised zinc oxide nanoparticle as a promising candidate for a drug delivery system.
Impacts of Gum Arabic and Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) with Salicylic Acid on Peach Fruit (Prunus persica) Shelf Life
Authors: Taher Mohamed A. , Lo’ay A. A. , Gouda Mostafa , Limam Safaa A. , Abdelkader Mohamed F. M. , Osman Samah O. , Fikry Mohammad , Ali Esmat F. , Mohamed Sayed. Y. , Khalil Hoda A. , El-Ansary Diaa O. , El-Gioushy Sherif F. , Ghazzawy Hesham S. , Ibrahim Aly M. , Maklad Mahmoud F. , Abdein Mohamed A. , Hikal Dalia M.
Published: April 2022

Peaches are grown in many Egyptian orchards for local and global fresh market sales. The interior fruit tissue breakdown (IFTB), often resulting in decayed peaches, is a severe problem during marketing. Therefore, to minimize FTB of peaches, in this study, gum arabic (GA) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) were mixed with different concentrations of salicylic acid (SA) (0, 1, and 2 mM) and were applied as edible coating to extend the shelf life of peach fruits. Mature peaches were selected and harvested when peaches reached total soluble solid content (SSC: 8.5%) and fruit firmness of about 47 N. Fruits were coated and stored at room temperature (26 ± 1 °C and air humidity 51 ± 1%) for 10 days during two seasons: 2020 and 2021. Fruit coated with GA/PVP-SA 2 mM showed a significant (p < 0.05) inhibition in degrading enzyme activities (CWDEs), such as lipoxygenase (LOX), cellulase (CEL), and pectinase (PT), compared to uncoated and coated fruits during the shelf-life period. Hence, cell wall compartments were maintained. Consequently, there was a reduction in browning symptoms in fruits by inhibiting polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activities. Thus, the fruit skin browning index showed almost no symptoms. The lipid peroxidation process and ionic permeability declined as well. The result suggests that, by applying GA/PVP-SA 2 mM as an edible coating, fruit tissue breakdown can be minimized, and the shelf life of peach can be extended up to 10 days without symptoms of tissue breakdown.
Measuring Bismuth Oxide Particle Size and Morphology in Film-Coated Tablets
Authors: Fertaki Stefani , Bagourakis Georgios , Orkoula Malvina , Kontoyannis Christos
Published: April 2022

The assessment of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) particle size and morphology is of great importance for the pharmaceutical industry since it is expected to significantly affect physicochemical properties. However, very few methods are published for the determination of API morphology and particle size of film-coated (FC) tablets. In the current study we provide a methodology for the measurement of API particle size and morphology which could be applied in several final products. Bismuth Oxide 120 mg FC Tabs were used for our method development, which contain bismuth oxide (as tripotassium dicitratobismuthate (bismuth subcitrate)) as the active substance. The sample preparation consists of partial excipient dissolution in different solvents. Following this procedure, the API particles were successfully extracted from the granules. Particle size and morphology identification in Bismuth Oxide 120 mg FC Tabs was conducted using micro-Raman mapping spectroscopy and ImageJ software. The proposed methodology was repeated for the raw API material and against a reference listed drug (RLD) for comparative purposes. The API particle size was found to have decreased compared to the raw API, while the API morphology was also affected from the formulation manufacturing process. Comparison with the RLD product also revealed differences, mainly in the API particle size and secondarily in the crystal morphology.
Mechanochemical Dimerization of Aldoximes to Furoxans
Authors: Fang Run-Kai , Chen Kuan , Niu Chuang , Wang Guan-Wu
Published: April 2022

Solvent-free mechanical milling is a new, environmentally friendly and cost-effective technology that is now widely used in the field of organic synthesis. The mechanochemical solvent-free synthesis of furoxans from aldoximes was achieved through dimerization of the in situ generated nitrile oxides in the presence of sodium chloride, Oxone and a base. A variety of furoxans was obtained with up to a 92% yield. The present protocol has the advantages of high reaction efficiency and mild reaction conditions.
Design and Synthesis of Some New Furan-Based Derivatives and Evaluation of In Vitro Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Bukhari Syed Nasir Abbas , Ejaz Hasan , Elsherif Mervat A. , Junaid Kashaf , Zaki Islam , Masoud Reham E.
Published: April 2022

New furan-based derivatives have been, designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their cytotoxic and tubulin polymerization inhibitory activities. DNA flow cytometric study of pyridine carbohydrazide 4 and N-phenyl triazinone 7 demonstrated G2/M phase cell cycle disruptions. Accumulation of cells in the pre-G1 phase and positive annexin V/PI staining, which may be caused by degeneration or fragmentation of the genetic components, suggested that cell death occurs via an apoptotic cascade. Furthermore, compounds 4 and 7 had a strong pro-apoptotic impact through inducing the intrinsic mitochondrial mechanism of apoptosis. This mechanistic route was verified by an ELISA experiment that indicated a considerable rise in the levels of p53 and Bax and a drop in the level of Bcl-2 when compared with the control.
Scaled-Up Multi-Needle Electrospinning Process Using Parallel Plate Auxiliary Electrodes
Authors: Beaudoin Étienne J. , Kubaski Maurício M. , Samara Mazen , Zednik Ricardo J. , Demarquette Nicole R.
Published: April 2022

Electrospinning has gained much attention in recent years due to its ability to easily produce high-quality polymeric nanofibers. However, electrospinning suffers from limited production capacity and a method to readily scale up this process is needed. One obvious approach includes the use of multiple electrospinning needles operating in parallel. Nonetheless, such an implementation has remained elusive, partly due to the uneven electric field distribution resulting from the Coulombic repulsion between the charged jets and needles. In this work, the uniformization of the electric field was performed for a linear array of twenty electrospinning needles using lateral charged plates as auxiliary electrodes. The effect of the auxiliary electrodes was characterized by investigating the semi-vertical angle of the spun jets, the deposition area and diameter of the fibers, as well as the thickness of the produced membranes. Finite element simulation was also used to analyze the impact of the auxiliary electrodes on the electric field intensity below each needle. Implementing parallel lateral plates as auxiliary electrodes was shown to help achieve uniformization of the electric field, the semi-vertical angle of the spun jet, and the deposition area of the fibers for the multi-needle electrospinning process. The high-quality morphology of the polymer nanofibers obtained by this improved process was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These findings help resolve one of the primary challenges that have plagued the large-scale industrial adoption of this exciting polymer processing technique.
Efficacy of Nanofiber Sheets Incorporating Lenvatinib in a Hepatocellular Carcinoma Xenograft Model
Authors: Yoshida Terufumi , Kaibori Masaki , Fujisawa Nanami , Ishizuka Mariko , Sumiyama Fusao , Hatta Masahiko , Kosaka Hisashi , Matsui Kosuke , Suzuki Kensuke , Akama Tomoya O. , Katano Tayo , Yoshii Kengo , Ebara Mitsuhiro , Sekimoto Mitsugu
Published: April 2022

Lenvatinib has a high response rate in unresectable advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we investigated whether lenvatinib-incorporating poly(ε-caprolactone) sheets (lenvatinib sheets) as a drug delivery system (DDS) exerted antitumor effects in a murine HCC model. The lenvatinib sheets were designed for sustained release of approximately 1 mg lenvatinib for 14 days. For 14 days, 1 mg lenvatinib was orally administered to mice. Then, we compared the antitumor effects of lenvatinib sheets with those of oral lenvatinib. The tumor volume, body weight, and serum lenvatinib level were measured for 14 days. A peritoneal dissemination model was established to examine the survival prolongation effect of the lenvatinib sheets. Tumor growth was significantly inhibited in the lenvatinib sheet group compared with that in the no treatment and oral groups. The antitumor effect was significantly higher in the lenvatinib sheet group. Regardless of the insertion site, the serum lenvatinib levels were maintained and showed similar antitumor effects. The mitotic index was significantly inhibited in the lenvatinib sheet group compared with that in the control group. Furthermore, lenvatinib sheets improved the 30-day survival. Lenvatinib sheets showed sufficient antitumor effects and may serve as an effective novel DDS for advanced HCC.
Improved Temporal Response of MoS2 Photodetectors by Mild Oxygen Plasma Treatment
Authors: Li Jitao , Bai Jing , Meng Ming , Hu Chunhong , Yuan Honglei , Zhang Yan , Sun Lingling
Published: April 2022

Temporal response is an important factor limiting the performance of two-dimensional (2D) material photodetectors. The deep trap states caused by intrinsic defects are the main factor to prolong the response time. In this work, it is demonstrated that the trap states in 2D molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) can be efficiently modulated by defect engineering through mild oxygen plasma treatment. The response time of the few-layer MoS2 photodetector is accelerated by 2–3 orders of magnitude, which is mainly attributed to the deep trap states that can be easily filled when O2 or oxygen ions are chemically bonded with MoS2 at sulfur vacancies (SV) sites. We characterized the defect engineering of plasma-exposed MoS2 by Raman, PL and electric properties. Under the optimal processing conditions of 30 W, 50 Pa and 30 s, we found 30-fold enhancements in photoluminescence (PL) intensity and a nearly 2-fold enhancement in carrier field-effect mobility, while the rise and fall response times reached 110 ms and 55 ms, respectively, at the illumination wavelength of 532 nm. This work would, therefore, offer a practical route to improve the performance of 2D dichalcogenide-based devices for future consideration in optoelectronics research.
Suppressing the Effect of the Wetting Layer through AlAs Capping in InAs/GaAs QD Structures for Solar Cells Applications
Authors: Ruiz Nazaret , Fernández Daniel , Stanojević Lazar , Ben Teresa , Flores Sara , Braza Verónica , Carro Alejandro Gallego , Luna Esperanza , Ulloa José María , González David
Published: April 2022

Recently, thin AlAs capping layers (CLs) on InAs quantum dot solar cells (QDSCs) have been shown to yield better photovoltaic efficiency compared to traditional QDSCs. Although it has been proposed that this improvement is due to the suppression of the capture of photogenerated carriers through the wetting layer (WL) states by a de-wetting process, the mechanisms that operate during this process are not clear. In this work, a structural analysis of the WL characteristics in the AlAs/InAs QD system with different CL-thickness has been made by scanning transmission electron microscopy techniques. First, an exponential decline of the amount of InAs in the WL with the CL thickness increase has been found, far from a complete elimination of the WL. Instead, this reduction is linked to a higher shield effect against QD decomposition. Second, there is no compositional separation between the WL and CL, but rather single layer with a variable content of InAlGaAs. Both effects, the high intermixing and WL reduction cause a drastic change in electronic levels, with the CL making up of 1–2 monolayers being the most effective configuration to reduce the radiative-recombination and minimize the potential barriers for carrier transport.
Facile Synthesis of Multifunctional Magnetoplasmonic Au-MnO Hybrid Nanocomposites for Cancer Theranostics
Authors: Tian Cong , Tang Zhe , Hou Yike , Mushtaq Asim , Naz Shafaq , Yu Zhangsen , Farheen Jabeen , Iqbal Muhammad Zubair , Kong Xiangdong
Published: April 2022

Significant attention is paid to the design of magnetoplasmonic nanohybrids, which exploit synergistic properties for biomedical applications. Here, a facile method was employed to prepare plasmonic magnetic Au-MnO heterostructured hybrid nanoparticles for imaging-guided photothermal therapy of cancers in vitro, with the view to reducing the serious drawbacks of chemotherapy and gadolinium-based contrast agents. The biocompatibility of the prepared Au-MnO nanocomposites was further enhanced by Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved triblock copolymers Pluronic® F-127 and chitosan oligosaccharide (COS), with complementary support to enhance the absorption in the near-infrared (NIR) region. In addition, synthesized COS-PF127@Au-MnO nanocomposites exhibited promising contrast enhancement in T1 MR imaging with a good r1 relaxivity value (1.2 mM−1 s−1), demonstrating a capable substitute to Gd-based toxic contrast agents. In addition, prepared COS-PF127@Au-MnO hybrid nanoparticles (HNPs) produced sufficient heat (62 °C at 200 μg/mL) to ablate cancerous cells upon 808 nm laser irradiation, inducing cell toxicity, and apoptosis. The promising diagnostic and photothermal therapeutic performance demonstrated the appropriateness of the COS-PF127@Au-MnO HNPs as a potential theranostic agent.
Smart and Rapid Design of Nanophotonic Structures by an Adaptive and Regularized Deep Neural Network
Authors: Li Renjie , Gu Xiaozhe , Shen Yuanwen , Li Ke , Li Zhen , Zhang Zhaoyu
Published: April 2022

The design of nanophotonic structures based on deep learning is emerging rapidly in the research community. Design methods using Deep Neural Networks (DNN) are outperforming conventional physics-based simulations performed iteratively by human experts. Here, a self-adaptive and regularized DNN based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for the smart and fast characterization of nanophotonic structures in high-dimensional design parameter space is presented. This proposed CNN model, named LRS-RCNN, utilizes dynamic learning rate scheduling and L2 regularization techniques to overcome overfitting and speed up training convergence and is shown to surpass the performance of all previous algorithms, with the exception of two metrics where it achieves a comparable level relative to prior works. We applied the model to two challenging types of photonic structures: 2D photonic crystals (e.g., L3 nanocavity) and 1D photonic crystals (e.g., nanobeam) and results show that LRS-RCNN achieves record-high prediction accuracies, strong generalizibility, and substantially faster convergence speed compared to prior works. Although still a proof-of-concept model, the proposed smart LRS-RCNN has been proven to greatly accelerate the design of photonic crystal structures as a state-of-the-art predictor for both Q-factor and V. It can also be modified and generalized to predict any type of optical properties for designing a wide range of different nanophotonic structures. The complete dataset and code will be released to aid the development of related research endeavors.
Aptamer-Adjusted Carbon Dot Catalysis-Silver Nanosol SERS Spectrometry for Bisphenol A Detection
Authors: Xie Yuqi , Ma Lu , Ling Shaoming , Ouyang Huixiang , Liang Aihui , Jiang Zhiliang
Published: April 2022

Carbon dots (CDs) can be prepared from various organic (abundant) compounds that are rich in surfaces with –OH, –COOH, and –NH2 groups. Therefore, CDs exhibit good biocompatibility and electron transfer ability, allowing flexible surface modification and accelerated electron transfer during catalysis. Herein, CDs were prepared using a hydrothermal method with fructose, saccharose, and citric acid as C sources and urea as an N dopant. The as-prepared CDs were used to catalyze AgNO3–trisodium citrate (TSC) to produce Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs). The surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) intensity increased with the increasing CDs concentration with Victoria blue B (VBB) as a signal molecule. The CDs exhibited a strong catalytic activity, with the highest activity shown by fructose-based CDs. After N doping, catalytic performance improved; with the passivation of a wrapped aptamer, the electron transfer was effectively disrupted (retarded). This resulted in the inhibition of the reaction and a decrease in the SERS intensity. When bisphenol A (BPA) was added, it specifically bound to the aptamer and CDs were released, recovering catalytical activity. The SERS intensity increased with BPA over the concentration range of 0.33–66.67 nmol/L. Thus, the aptamer-adjusted nanocatalytic SERS method can be applied for BPA detection.
Octagonal Quasicrystal Defect Mode Laser-Based PVK: Ir(ppy)3 Polymer Driven by Optical Pumping
Authors: Cai Yuanyuan , Zhang Shuai , Wu Chenyu , Wang Zhiwei , Xu Weiran , Chen Xiao , Wang Yiquan
Published: April 2022

Based on the conjugated complex PVK: Ir(ppy)3, a green-emitting organic quasicrystal microcavity laser is demonstrated driven by optical pumping. The organic laser adopts a sandwich structure of DBR/organic gain membrane/output Ag-layer for the vertical oscillation and an octagonal quasi-crystal for in-plane light localization. The experimental results show that the single-mode lasing action is observed at 521 nm with an FWHM of 0.8 nm. The threshold of lasing is lowered to 0.181 μJ/cm2.
The Influence of Maternal Vitamin E Concentrations in Different Trimesters on Gestational Diabetes and Large-for-Gestational-Age: A Retrospective Study in China
Authors: Zhou Qianling , Jiao Mingyuan , Han Na , Yang Wangxing , Bao Heling , Ren Zhenghong
Published: April 2022

Vitamin E can protect pregnant women from oxidative stress and further affect pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to investigate maternal vitamin E concentration in each trimester and its associations with gestational diabetes (GDM) and large-for-gestational-age (LGA). The data were derived from Peking University Retrospective Birth Cohort in Tongzhou, collected from 2015 to 2018 (n = 19,647). Maternal serum vitamin E were measured from blood samples collected in each trimester. Logistic regressions were performed to analyze the association between maternal vitamin E levels and outcomes. The median levels of maternal vitamin E increased from the first (10.00 mg/L) to the third (16.00 mg/L) trimester. Among mothers who had inadequate vitamin E levels, most of them had excessive amounts. Excessive vitamin E level in the second trimester was a risk factor for GDM (aOR = 1.640, 95% CI: 1.316–2.044) and LGA (aOR = 1.334, 95% CI: 1.022–1.742). Maternal vitamin E concentrations in the first and second trimesters were positively associated with GDM (first: aOR = 1.056, 95% CI: 1.038–1.073; second: aOR = 1.062, 95% CI: 1.043–1.082) and LGA (first: aOR = 1.030, 95% CI: 1.009–1.051; second: aOR = 1.040, 95% CI: 1.017–1.064). Avoiding an excess of vitamin E during pregnancy might be an effective measure to reduce GDM and LGA. Studies to explore the potential mechanisms are warranted.
Children’s and Parents’ Marburg Sugar Index (MSI) Values: Are They Comparable?
Authors: Schmidt Peter , Schulte Andreas G. , Margraf-Stiksrud Jutta , Heinzel-Gutenbrunner Monika , Pieper Klaus
Published: April 2022

Studies on children’s nutritional behaviour (CNB) rarely compare children’s answers regarding the frequency of their sugar intake with the respective statements of their parents. Therefore, data from a prevention study were used to analyse this aspect, as well as a potential correlation between Marburg Sugar Index (MSI) values and caries experience of children. The present study based its questionnaire data on CNB and caries data. Pairs of questionnaires filled in separately by children and parents of the participating families were dichotomised by either having completed the diet section entirely (Group A) or in part (Group B). The MSI scores were calculated separately for children and parents. The statistical confidence level was set at α = 0.05 (two-sided). Furthermore, the Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated and tested for “r = 0”. Additionally, a test for equality of the correlations was applied. The number of available questionnaire pairs was 429 in Group A and 400 in Group B. In both groups, significant correlations between children’s and parents’ MSI scores (A: r = 0.301, p < 0.001; B: r = 0.226, p < 0.001) were found. Using Spearman’s Rho, a significant correlation between MSI scores and children’s caries experiences was observed in Group A. MSI scores based on dietary questionnaires can be used to obtain consistent information on children’s CNB provided by the children themselves or their parents. This is true even when the MSI score has to be calculated on the basis of incomplete questionnaires. Questionnaire-based CNB information can improve the effectiveness of individual or group preventive measures supplemented by individually adapted nutritional counselling.
Association between Dairy Product Intake and Risk of Fracture among Adults: A Cohort Study from China Health and Nutrition Survey
Authors: Na Xiaona , Xi Yuandi , Qian Sicheng , Zhang Jian , Yang Yucheng , Zhao Ai
Published: April 2022

Background: The current literature reports inconsistent associations between dairy product intake and fracture. This study assessed the association between dairy product intake and the risk of fracture among Chinese adults and examined the mediation effects of height and body mass index (BMI) on the association. Methods: Data in 1997–2015 from the China Health and Nutrition Survey were used. Dietary data were collected by a 24-hour dietary recall, and occurrences of fracture were obtained by self-report of participants. Cumulative average intake of daily dairy products was calculated by the sum of the dairy product intake and divided by the total waves of participating in the surveys before fracture. Cox proportion hazard regressions were performed to explore the associations between dairy product intake and the risk of fracture. Mediation analysis models were established to examine the mediation effects of height and BMI on the associations. Results: A total of 14,711 participants were included. Dairy product intake of 0.1–100 g/day was associated with a decreased risk of fracture, while no association was observed among participants with dairy product intake of >100 g/day. The indirect effects of dairy product intake on the fracture mediated by height and BMI were much smaller than the direct effects. Conclusions: Dairy product intake with 0.1–100 g/day is associated with a lower risk of fracture, and the association is mainly a direct result of nutrients in dairy products and much less a result of the mediation effects of height or BMI. Dairy product intake of 0.1–100 g/day might be a cost-effective measure for Chinese adults to decrease fracture incidence.
Probiotics-Supplemented Low-Protein Diet for Microbiota Modulation in Patients with Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease (ProLowCKD): Results from a Placebo-Controlled Randomized Trial
Authors: De Mauri Andreana , Carrera Deborah , Bagnati Marco , Rolla Roberta , Vidali Matteo , Chiarinotti Doriana , Pane Marco , Amoruso Angela , Del Piano Mario
Published: April 2022

The probiotics-supplemented low-protein diet in chronic kidney disease (ProLowCKD) was a single-centre, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised trial that was conducted to investigate whether the association between a low protein diet (LPD) and a new formulation of probiotics (Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus reuteri) was effective at reducing traditional uremic, microbiota-derived, and proatherogenic toxins in sixty patients affected by advanced CKD. After 2 months of a LPD—a reduction in blood urea nitrogen (52 ± 17 vs. 46 ± 15 mg/dL, p = 0.003), total cholesterol (185 ± 41 vs. 171 ± 34 mg/dL, p = 0.001), and triglycerides (194 ± 148 vs. 161 ± 70 mg/dL, p = 0.03) was observed; 57 subjects were then randomized to receive probiotics or a placebo for the subsequent 3 months. A total of 27 patients in the placebo group showed increased serum values of total cholesterol (169 ± 36 vs. 185 ± 40 mg/dL, p = 0.01), LDL cholesterol (169 ± 36 vs. 185 ± 40 mg/dL, p = 0.02), lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (155.4 ± 39.3 vs. 167.5 ± 51.4 nmol/mL/min, p = 0.006), and indoxyl-sulphate (30.1 ± 17.6 vs. 34.5 ± 20.2 μM, p = 0.026), while the 24 subjects in the probiotics group showed a trend in the reduction of microbiota toxins. A reduction of antihypertensive and diuretic medications was possible in the probiotics group. This study shows that associating probiotics to LPD may have an additional beneficial effect on the control and modulation of microbiota-derived and proatherogenic toxins in CKD patients.
From Dietary Cholesterol to Blood Cholesterol, Physiological Lipid Fluxes, and Cholesterol Homeostasis
Authors: Stellaard Frans
Published: April 2022

Dietary cholesterol (C) is a major contributor to the endogenous C pool, and it affects the serum concentration of total C, particularly the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). A high serum concentration of LDL-C is associated with an increased risk for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. This concentration is dependent on hepatic C metabolism creating a balance between C input (absorption and synthesis) and C elimination (conversion to bile acids and fecal excretion). The daily C absorption rate is determined by dietary C intake, biliary C secretion, direct trans-intestinal C excretion (TICE), and the fractional C absorption rate. Hepatic C metabolism coordinates C fluxes entering the liver via chylomicron remnants (CMR), LDL, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), hepatic C synthesis, and those leaving the liver via very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), biliary secretion, and bile acid synthesis. The knowns and the unknowns of this C homeostasis are discussed.
Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency in Patients Treated for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Potential Role of Methotrexate: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Stawicki Maciej K. , Abramowicz Paweł , Góralczyk Adrian , Młyńczyk Justyna , Kondratiuk Anna , Konstantynowicz Jerzy
Published: April 2022

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is reported in rheumatological diseases in adults. The aim was to evaluate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and to investigate potential correlations between vitamin D status and clinical factors, laboratory traits, and medical treatment, including methotrexate (MTX) and glucocorticoids (GCs). Methods: In 189 patients aged 3–17.7 years, with JIA in the stable stage of the disease, anthropometry, clinical status, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], calcium (Ca), phosphate (PO4), total alkaline phosphatase (ALP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were assessed. Results: Median 25(OH)D level was 15.00 ng/mL, interquartile range (IQR) 12.00 ng/mL. Vitamin D deficiency was found in 67.2% and was independent of sex, disease manifestation, and CRP, ESR, ALP, or PO4 levels. Higher doses of MTX corresponded with lower 25(OH)D levels using both univariate and multivariate models (p < 0.05). No such trend was found for GCs treatment. Serum Ca was lower in patients treated with GCs (p = 0.004), MTX (p = 0.03), and combined GCs/MTX (p = 0.034). Conclusions: JIA patients are vitamin D depleted independently of disease activity or inflammatory markers. MTX therapy may be an iatrogenic factor leading to inadequate 25(OH)D levels. Vitamin D supplementation should be considered in all children with JIA, particularly those receiving long-term MTX therapy.
Dietary Management of Chronic Kidney Disease and Secondary Hyperoxaluria in Patients with Short Bowel Syndrome and Type 3 Intestinal Failure
Authors: Adler Maciej , Millar Ewen C. , Deans Kevin A. , Torreggiani Massimo , Moroni Francesca
Published: April 2022

Short gut syndrome can lead to type 3 intestinal failure, and nutrition and hydration can only be achieved with parenteral nutrition (PN). While this is a lifesaving intervention, it carries short- and long-term complications leading to complex comorbidities, including chronic kidney disease. Through a patient with devastating inflammatory bowel disease’s journey, this review article illustrates the effect of short gut and PN on kidney function, focusing on secondary hyperoxaluria and acute precipitants of glomerular filtration. In extensive small bowel resections colon in continuity promotes fluid reabsorption and hydration but predisposes to hyperoxaluria and stone disease through the impaired gut permeability and fat absorption. It is fundamental, therefore, for dietary intervention to maintain nutrition and prevent clinical deterioration (i.e., sarcopenia) but also to limit the progression of renal stone disease. Adaptation of both enteral and parenteral nutrition needs to be individualised, keeping in consideration not only patient comorbidities (short gut and jejunostomy, cirrhosis secondary to PN) but also patients’ wishes and lifestyle. A balanced multidisciplinary team (renal physician, gastroenterologist, dietician, clinical biochemist, pharmacist, etc.) plays a core role in managing complex patients, such as the one described in this review, to improve care and overall outcomes.
Aflatoxin B1 DNA-Adducts in Hepatocellular Carcinoma from a Low Exposure Area
Authors: Gramantieri Laura , Gnudi Federica , Vasuri Francesco , Mandrioli Daniele , Fornari Francesca , Tovoli Francesco , Suzzi Fabrizia , Vornoli Andrea , D’Errico Antonia , Piscaglia Fabio , Giovannini Catia
Published: April 2022

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a class 1 carcinogen with an ascertained role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in high exposure areas. Instead, this study aimed to assay whether chronic/intermittent, low-dose AFB1 consumption might occur in low-exposure geographical areas, ultimately accumulating in the liver and possibly contributing to liver cancer. AFB1-DNA adducts were assayed by immunostaining in liver tissues from three Italian series of twenty cirrhosis without HCC, 131 HCC, and 45 cholangiocarcinoma, and in an AFB1-induced HCC rat model. CD68, TP53 immunostaining, and TP53 RFLP analysis of R249S transversion were used to characterize cell populations displaying AFB1-DNA adducts. Twenty-five HCCs displayed AFB1-adducts both in neoplastic hepatocytes and in cells infiltrating the tumor and non-tumor tissues. Nuclear immunostaining was observed in a few cases, while most cases showed cytoplasmic immunostaining, especially in CD68-positive tumor-infiltrating cells, suggestive for phagocytosis of dead hepatocytes. Similar patterns were observed in AFB1-induced rat HCC, though with higher intensity. Cholangiocarcinoma and cirrhosis without HCC did not displayAFB1-adducts, except for one case. Despite not providing a causal relationship with HCC, these findings still suggest paying attention to detection and control measures for aflatoxins to ensure food safety in low exposure areas.
Consumers’ Attitudes and Purchase Intention for a Vitamin-Enriched Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: Hamam Manal , Di Vita Giuseppe , Zanchini Raffaele , Spina Daniela , Raimondo Maria , Pilato Manuela , D’Amico Mario
Published: April 2022

This study aims to examine Italian consumer preferences for extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) enriched with vitamins and to analyze the key drivers that affect consumer choices for this product. Specifically, we assessed consumers’ intention to purchase the enriched product compared to the conventional one. The methodology adopted inferential and multivariate statistical techniques: (1) exploratory factor analysis (EFA), (2) ordinary least squares regression (OLS) and (3) non-hierarchical clustering. This study appears to be the first research project related to exploring consumers’ interest in an extra virgin olive oil enhanced with vitamins, thereby providing preliminary indications. The main results represent a significant starting point for the development of new marketing strategies for the food industry.
Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) and Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors and Outcomes: A Systematic Review of Clinical Studies
Authors: Laurindo Lucas Fornari , Barbalho Sandra Maria , Marquess Alexis R. , Grecco Annik Ianara de Souza , Goulart Ricardo de Alvares , Tofano Ricardo José , Bishayee Anupam
Published: April 2022

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) can be considered a multipurpose medicinal and dietary plant due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. Pomegranate can be used to prevent or treat metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk factors. Although previously published reviews addressed the effects of pomegranate on different diseases, there is no systematic review that exclusively focuses on clinical trials related to all MetS-related risk factors. In view of this limitation, the objective of this up-to-date, comprehensive, and systematic review is to critically evaluate the potential of pomegranate (P. granatum) on various MetS risk factors on the basis of clinical studies. PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, COCHRANE, and Clinical Trials.gov databases were searched on 15 October 2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed, and the bias risk evaluation was performed according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We identified 5683 studies in the databases. After removing the duplicates, 3418 studies remained. Of these, 147 studies met the eligibility criteria, and finally, only 20 were included in the qualitative analysis. The included studies suggest that pomegranate can be beneficial to reduce body weight, blood pressure, glycemia, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Moreover, it can augment high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and improve insulin resistance. Although relevant effects were observed, additional well-designed clinical trials are needed to determine the correct formulations and doses to be used to prevent or treat MetS components.
Lactobacillus casei Improve Anti-Tuberculosis Drugs-Induced Intestinal Adverse Reactions in Rat by Modulating Gut Microbiota and Short-Chain Fatty Acids
Authors: Li Yue , Zhao Liangjie , Hou Meiling , Gao Tianlin , Sun Jin , Luo Hao , Wang Fengdan , Zhong Feng , Ma Aiguo , Cai Jing
Published: April 2022

The adverse effects of anti-tuberculosis (TB) drugs in the intestines were related to alteration of the intestinal microbiota. However, there was less information about microbial metabolism on the adverse reactions. This study aimed to explore whether Lactobacillus casei could regulate gut microbiota or short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) disorders to protect intestinal adverse reactions induced by isoniazid (H) and rifampicin (R). Male Wistar rats were given low and high doses of Lactobacillus casei two hours before daily administration of anti-TB drugs. After 42 days, colon tissue and blood were collected for analysis. The feces at two-week and six-week were collected to analyze the microbial composition and the content of SCFAs in colon contents was determined. Supplementation of Lactobacillus casei increased the proportion of intestinal goblet cells induced by H and R (p < 0.05). In addition, HR also reduced the level of mucin-2 (p < 0.05), and supplementation of Lactobacillus casei restored. After two weeks of HR intervention, a decrease in OTUs, diversity index, the abundance of Bacteroides, Akkermansia, and Blautia, and an increase of the abundance of Lacetospiraceae NK4A136 group and Rumencoccus UCG-005, were observed compared with the control group (p all < 0.05). These indices in Lactobacillus casei intervention groups were similar to the HR group. Six-week intervention resulted in a dramatic reduction of Lacetospiraceae NK4A136 group, butyric acid, valeric acid and hexanoic acid, while an increase of Bacteroides and Blautia (p all < 0.05). Pretreatment with Lactobacillus casei significantly increased the content of hexanoic acid compared with HR group (p < 0.05). Lactobacillus casei might prevent intestinal injury induced by anti-tuberculosis drugs by regulating gut microbiota and SCFAs metabolism.