bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Determination of Acetamiprid in Pollen Based on a Sensitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Fang Qingkui , Zu Quan , Hua Xiude , Lv Pei , Lin Wanwen , Zhou Dahe , Xu Zihan , Fan Jiarui , Li Xiaohan , Cao Haiqun
Published: April 2019

A sensitive biotinylated indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Bic-ELISA) was developed to detect acetamiprid pesticides in pollen, based on the heterogeneous coating antigen and biotinylated anti-acetamiprid monoclonal antibody. Under optimized experimental conditions, the detection limit for the Bic-ELISA was 0.17 ng/mL and the linear range was 0.25–25 ng/mL. The cross-reactivities could be regarded as negligible for the biotinylated antibodies with their analogues except for thiacloprid (1.66%). Analyte recoveries for extracts of spiked pollen (camellia pollen, lotus pollen, rape pollen) ranged from 81.1% to 108.0%, with intra-day relative standard deviations (RSDs) of 4.8% to 10.9%, and the average reproducibility was 85.4% to 110.9% with inter-assay and inter-assay RSDs of 6.1% to 11.7%. The results of Bic-ELISA methods for the Taobao’s website samples were largely consistent with HPLC-MS/MS. Therefore, the established Bic-ELISA methods would be conducive to the monitoring of acetamiprid in pollen.
Reduction of Preneoplastic Lesions Induced by 1,2-Dimethylhydrazine in Rat Colon by Maslinic Acid, a Pentacyclic Triterpene from Olea europaea L.
Authors: Juan M. Emília , Lozano-Mena Glòria , Sánchez-González Marta , Planas Joana M.
Published: April 2019

Maslinic acid triggers compelling antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in different human cancer cell lines. Hence, the chemopreventive activity was investigated on early stages of carcinogenesis induced by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) which is a model that mimics human sporadic colorectal cancer. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were orally administered either maslinic acid at 5, 10 or 25 mg/kg dissolved in (2-hydroxypropyl)-β-cyclodextrin 20% (w/v) or the solvent for 49 days. After one week of treatment, animals received three weekly intraperitoneal injections of DMH at the dose of 20 mg/kg. Maslinic acid reduced the preneoplastic biomarkers, aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and mucin-depleted foci (MDF), already at 5 mg/kg in a 15% and 27%, respectively. The decline was significant at 25 mg/kg with decreases of 33% and 51%, respectively. Correlation analysis showed a significant association between the concentrations of maslinic acid found in the colon and the reduction of ACF (r = 0.999, p = 0.019) and MDF (r = 0.997, p = 0.049). The present findings demonstrate that maslinic acid induced an inhibition of the initiation stages of carcinogenesis. The assessment of this pentacyclic triterpene at the colon sheds light for designing diets with foods rich in maslinic acid to exert a chemopreventive activity in colorectal cancer.
In Vitro Enzymatic Digestibility of Glutaraldehyde-Crosslinked Chitosan Nanoparticles in Lysozyme Solution and Their Applicability in Pulmonary Drug Delivery
Authors: Islam Nazrul , Wang Hui , Maqbool Faheem , Ferro Vito
Published: April 2019

Herein, the degradation of low molecular weight chitosan (CS), with 92% degree of deacetylation (DD), and its nanoparticles (NP) has been investigated in 0.2 mg/mL lysozyme solution at 37 °C. The CS nanoparticles were prepared using glutaraldehyde crosslinking of chitosan in a water-in-oil emulsion system. The morphological characterization of CS particles was carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) techniques. Using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and UV-VIS spectroscopy, the structural integrity of CS and its NPs in lysozyme solution were monitored. The CS powder showed characteristic FTIR bands around 1150 cm−1 associated with the glycosidic bridges (C-O-C bonds) before and after lysozyme treatment for 10 weeks, which indicated no CS degradation. The glutaraldehyde crosslinked CS NPs showed very weak bands associated with the glycosidic bonds in lysozyme solution. Interestingly, the UV-VIS spectroscopic data showed some degradation of CS NPs in lysozyme solution. The results of this study indicate that CS with a high DD and its NPs crosslinked with glutaraldehyde were not degradable in lysozyme solution and thus unsuitable for pulmonary drug delivery. Further studies are warranted to understand the complete degradation of CS and its NPs to ensure their application in pulmonary drug delivery.
Food Insecurity Is Associated with Mild Cognitive Impairment among Middle-Aged and Older Adults in South Africa: Findings from a Nationally Representative Survey
Authors: Koyanagi Ai , Veronese Nicola , Stubbs Brendon , Vancampfort Davy , Stickley Andrew , Oh Hans , Shin Jae Il , Jackson Sarah , Smith Lee , Lara Elvira
Published: April 2019

There are no studies on the association between food insecurity and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Thus, cross-sectional, community-based data on individuals aged ≥50 years from the World Health Organization’s Study on Global AGEing and Adult Health (SAGE) conducted in South Africa (2007–2008) were analyzed to assess this association. The definition of MCI was based on the National Institute on Ageing-Alzheimer’s Association criteria. Past 12-month food insecurity was assessed with two questions on frequency of eating less and hunger due to lack of food. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted. The sample consisted of 3,672 individuals aged ≥50 years [mean (SD) age 61.4 (18.3); 56% females]. The prevalence of MCI was 8.5%, while 11.0% and 20.8% experienced moderate and severe food insecurity, respectively. After adjustment for potential confounders, moderate and severe food insecurity were associated with 2.82 (95%CI = 1.65–4.84) and 2.51 (95%CI = 1.63–3.87) times higher odds for MCI compared with no food insecurity, respectively. The OR for those aged ≥65 years with severe food insecurity was particularly high (OR = 3.87; 95%CI = 2.20–6.81). In conclusion, food insecurity was strongly associated with MCI among South African older adults. Future longitudinal research is required to assess whether addressing food insecurity may reduce risk of MCI and subsequent dementia.
Associations of ADIPOQ and LEP Gene Variants with Energy Intake: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kroll Caroline , Mastroeni Silmara S.B.S. , Veugelers Paul J. , Mastroeni Marco F
Published: April 2019

This systematic review aims to evaluate the association of adiponectin (ADIPOQ) and leptin (LEP) gene variants with energy intake. Cross-sectional, cohort, and case–control studies that reported an association of leptin and/or adiponectin gene variants with energy intake were included in this review. Human studies without any age restrictions were considered eligible. Detailed individual search strategies were developed for each of the following bibliographic databases: Cochrane, Latin American and Caribbean Center on Health Sciences Information (LILACS), PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. Risk of bias assessment was adapted from the Downs and Black scale and was used to evaluate the methodology of the included studies. Seven studies with a pooled population of 2343 subjects were included. The LEP and ADIPOQ gene variants studied were LEP-rs2167270 (k = 1), LEP-rs7799039 (k = 5), ADIPOQ-rs2241766 (k = 2), ADIPOQ-rs17300539 (k = 1), and ADIPOQ marker D3S1262 (k = 1). Two of the seven studies reviewed demonstrated a positive association between the LEP-rs7799039 polymorphism and energy intake. Two other studies—one involving a marker of the ADIPOQ gene and one examining the ADIPOQ-rs17300539 polymorphism—also reported associations with energy intake. More research is needed to further elucidate the contributions of genetic variants to energy metabolism.
Nut Consumptions as a Marker of Higher Diet Quality in a Mediterranean Population at High Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Bibiloni Maria del Mar , Julibert Alicia , Bouzas Cristina , Martínez-González Miguel A. , Corella Dolores , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Zomeño M. Dolors , Vioque Jesús , Romaguera Dora , Martínez J. Alfredo , Wärnberg Julia , López-Miranda José , Estruch Ramón , Bueno-Cavanillas Aurora , Arós Fernando , Tinahones Francisco , Serra-Majem Lluis , Martín Vicente , Lapetra José , Vázquez Clotilde , Pintó Xavier , Vidal Josep , Daimiel Lidia , Delgado-Rodríguez Miguel , Matía Pilar , Ros Emilio , Fernández-Carrión Rebeca , Garcia-Rios Antonio , Zulet M. Angeles , Orozco-Beltrán Domingo , Schröder Helmut , Fitó Montserrat , Bulló Mónica , Basora Josep , Cenoz Juan Carlos , Diez-Espino Javier , Toledo Estefanía , Tur Josep A.
Published: April 2019

Background: Nut consumption has been associated with improved nutrient adequacy and diet quality in healthy adult populations but this association has never been explored in individuals at high cardiovascular risk. Objective: to assess the associations between consumption of nuts and nutrient adequacy and diet quality in a Mediterranean population at high cardiovascular risk. Design: baseline assessment of nutritional adequacy in participants (n = 6060, men and women, with ages 55–75 years old, with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome) in the PREDIMED-PLUS primary cardiovascular prevention randomized trial. Methods: nut intake was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Participants who reported consuming zero quantity of nuts were classified as ‘non-nut consumers’. ‘Nut consumers’ were participants who reported consuming any quantity of nuts. Nineteen micronutrients were examined (vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, A, C, D, E and folic acid; Ca, K, P, Mg, Fe, Se, Cr, Zn, and iodine). The proportion of micronutrient inadequacy was estimated using the estimated average requirements (EAR) or adequate intake (AI) cut-points. Diet quality was also assessed using a 17-item Mediterranean dietary questionnaire (Mediterranean diet score, MDS), a carbohydrate quality index (CQI) and a fat quality index (FQI). Results: eighty-two percent of participants were nut consumers (median of nut consumption 12.6 g/day; interquartile range: 6.0–25.2). Nut consumers were less likely to be below the EAR for vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, D, E, folic acid, and Ca, Mg, Se and Zn than non-nut consumers. Nut consumers were also more likely to be above the AI for K and Cr than non-nut consumers. Nut consumers had lower prevalence of inadequate micronutrient intakes, but also higher CQI, higher FQI, and better scores of adherence to the Mediterranean diet (Mediterranean diet score, MDS). Conclusions: nut consumers had better nutrient adequacy, diet quality, and adherence to the MedDiet than those non-nut consumers.
Polyphenols Modulate Alzheimer’s Amyloid Beta Aggregation in a Structure-Dependent Manner
Authors: Phan Huong T. T. , Samarat Kaouthar , Takamura Yuzuru , Azo-Oussou Auriane F. , Nakazono Yasutaka , Vestergaard Mun’delanji C.
Published: April 2019

Some polyphenols, which are common natural compounds in fruits, vegetables, seeds, and oils, have been considered as potent inhibitors of amyloid beta (Aβ) aggregation, one critical pathogenic event in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the mechanisms by which polyphenols affect aggregation are not fully understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of two classes of polyphenols (flavonoids and stilbenes) on the self-assembly of Aβ_42, in particular, how this relates to structure. We found that the flavonoids gallocatechin gallate (GCG) and theaflavin (TF) could completely inhibit Aβ aggregation, while two stilbenes, resveratrol and its glucoside derivative piceid, could also suppress Aβ aggregation, but to a much lesser extent. Intriguingly, resveratrol accelerated the formation of Aβ fibrils before its decreasing effect on fibrillation was detected. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) images showed a huge mass of long and thin Aβ fibrils formed in the presence of resveratrol. Although the morphology was the same in the presence of piceid, the fibrils were sparse in the presence of picead. In the presence of flavonoids, Aβ morphology was unchanged from prior to incubation (0 h), in agreement with amyloid beta kinetics analysis using thioflavin-T fluorescence assay. The electrochemical data showed a higher ability of GCG and TF to interact with Aβ than resveratrol and piceid, which could be attributed to the presence of more aromatic rings and hydroxyl groups. In addition, the two flavonoids exhibited a similar propensity for Aβ aggregation, despite having some differences in their structure. However, in the case of stilbenes, the addition of a glucoside at C-7 slightly decreased anti-Aβ aggregation property compared to resveratrol. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the essential structural features of polyphenols required for inhibiting Aβ aggregation, and the possible mechanisms for modulating aggregation.
Preconception Lifestyle and Weight-Related Behaviors by Maternal Body Mass Index: A Cross-Sectional Study of Pregnant Women
Authors: Lang Adina Y. , Harrison Cheryce L. , Boyle Jacqueline A.
Published: April 2019

Obesity is a rising global health challenge, particularly for reproductive-aged women. Our cross-sectional study of pregnant women (n = 223) examined associations between preconception body mass index (BMI) and socio-demographics, weight perceptions and lifestyle behaviors. Over half of women were overweight (33.2%) or obese (22.0%), 49.6% of which perceived their weight as normal. High proportions of women reported planning their pregnancies (70.0%) and were actively trying to lose or maintain their weight preconception (72.7%). Weight management approaches varied from reducing discretionary foods (63.7%) to professional support (8.1%). Obese women had significantly greater odds of reducing discretionary foods (odds ratio (OR) = 6.69 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.13–21.00, p = 0.001) and using structured diets (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 9.13 95% CI 2.90–28.81, p < 0.001) compared to normal-weight women. After adjusting for socio-demographics, compared to normal-weight women, overweight (AOR = 5.24 95% CI 2.19–12.56, p < 0.001) and obese (AOR = 2.85 95% CI 1.06–7.67, p = 0.04) women had significantly increased odds of exercising for weight management and significantly lower odds of taking folic-acid preconception (overweight: AOR = 0.40 95% CI 0.18–0.90, p = 0.01, obese: AOR = 0.38 95% CI 0.16–0.91, p = 0.03). Large proportions of women planning a pregnancy have an overweight/obese BMI, with associated suboptimal health behaviors and reduced health professional engagement preconception. Further research exploring women’s perspectives regarding preconception lifestyles is needed to inform effective preconception health promotion strategies.
Sleep Duration is Inversely Associated with Serum Uric Acid Concentrations and Uric Acid to Creatinine Ratio in an Elderly Mediterranean Population at High Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Papandreou Christopher , Babio Nancy , Díaz-López Andrés , Martínez-González Miguel , Becerra-Tomas Nerea , Corella Dolores , Schröder Helmut , Romaguera Dora , Vioque Jesús , Alonso-Gómez Ángel , Wärnberg Julia , Martínez Alfredo , Serra-Majem Lluís , Estruch Ramon , Muñoz-Garach Araceli , Lapetra José , Pintó Xavier , Tur Josep , Garcia-Rios Antonio , Bueno-Cavanillas Aurora , Delgado-Rodríguez Miguel , Matía-Martín Pilar , Daimiel Lidia , Martín-Sánchez Vicente , Vidal Josep , Vázquez Clotilde , Ros Emilio , Ruiz-Canela Miguel , Bulló Mónica , Sorli Jose , Quifer Mireia , Colom Antoni , Oncina-Canovas Alejandro , Tojal-Sierra Lucas , Barón-López Javier , Pérez-Farinós Napoleón , Abete Itziar , Sanchez-Villegas Almudena , Casas Rosa , Fernández-Garcia José , Santos-Lozano José , Corbella Emili , del M. Bibiloni Maria , Diez-Espino Javier , Asensio Eva , Torras Laura , Morey Marga , Compañ-Gabucio Laura , Salaverria-Lete Itziar , Cenoz-Osinaga Juan , Castañer Olga , Salas-Salvadó Jordi
Published: April 2019

The aim of the study was to evaluate sleep duration and sleep variability in relation to serum uric acid (SUA) concentrations and SUA to creatinine ratio. This is a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from 1842 elderly participants with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome in the (Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea) PREDIMED-Plus trial. Accelerometry-derived sleep duration and sleep variability were measured. Linear regression models were fitted to examine the aforementioned associations. A 1 hour/night increment in sleep duration was inversely associated with SUA concentrations (β = −0.07, p = 0.047). Further adjustment for leukocytes attenuated this association (p = 0.050). Each 1-hour increment in sleep duration was inversely associated with SUA to creatinine ratio (β = −0.15, p = 0.001). The findings of this study suggest that longer sleep duration is associated with lower SUA concentrations and lower SUA to creatinine ratio.
Lycopene Inhibits Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated NF-κB Signaling and Induces Apoptosis in Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Jeong Yoonseon , Lim Joo Weon , Kim Hyeyoung
Published: April 2019

Generation of excess quantities of reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by mitochondrial dysfunction facilitates rapid growth of pancreatic cancer cells. Elevated ROS levels in cancer cells cause an anti-apoptotic effect by activating survival signaling pathways, such as NF-κB and its target gene expression. Lycopene, a carotenoid found in tomatoes and a potent antioxidant, displays a protective effect against pancreatic cancer. The present study was designed to determine if lycopene induces apoptosis of pancreatic cancer PANC-1 cells by decreasing intracellular and mitochondrial ROS levels, and consequently suppressing NF-κB activation and expression of NF-κB target genes including cIAP1, cIAP2, and survivin. The results show that the lycopene decreased intracellular and mitochondrial ROS levels, mitochondrial function (determined by the mitochondrial membrane potential and oxygen consumption rate), NF-κB activity, and expression of NF-κB-dependent survival genes in PANC-1 cells. Lycopene reduced cell viability with increases in active caspase-3 and the Bax to Bcl-2 ratio in PANC-1 cells. These findings suggest that supplementation of lycopene could potentially reduce the incidence of pancreatic cancer.
High-Prevalence Vitamin D Deficiency among Korean Emergency Department Homeless, with a Comparison to a Healthy Korean Population
Authors: Lee Hui Jai , Shin Jonghwan , You Kyoung Min
Published: April 2019

Although nutritional problems are a major concern for the homeless, their vitamin D status has not yet been widely evaluated. This study was a retrospective chart review conducted at a single academic, urban public hospital’s emergency department (ED). Patients whose serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels had been checked in the ED from July 2014 to June 2015 were reviewed and enrolled. For a healthy settled civilian control, 2011 and 2012 data from the Fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) were used. A total of 179 patients were enrolled. Vitamin D deficiency was observed in 133 patients (73.7%). The vitamin D deficiency group showed a lower hemoglobin level than that of non-vitamin D deficiency group (p = 0.02). Winter visits were more common among the deficiency group (p = 0.048). Rhabdomyolysis was observed only in the deficiency homeless group (p = 0.03). When using age and sex as covariates of propensity score matching 25(OH)D levels were lower in the homeless than in the healthy control (15.7 ± 7.4 ng/mL vs. 18.2 ± 5.5 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Moreover, when the controls were limited to residents of the same city, the serum 25(OH)D level also was lower in the homeless than in the control (15.7 ± 7.4 ng/mL vs. 17.1 ± 5.4 ng/mL, p = 0.03). In summary, vitamin D deficiency was common and more frequent among homeless patients.
Regional Disparities in the Association between Cereal Consumption and Metabolic Syndrome: Results from the China Health and Nutrition Survey
Authors: Huang Lina , Wang Huijun , Wang Zhihong , Zhang Jiguo , Zhang Bing , Ding Gangqiang
Published: April 2019

This study examines regional disparities in the association between cereal consumption and metabolic syndrome (MetS) among Chinese adults. We used data from the longitudinal China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) for 2892 healthy adults aged 18–75 years (1088 in northern China, 1804 in southern China) who had no non-communicable chronic diseases or MetS at the initial visit in 2009 and the follow-up in 2015. We used a 74-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) to assess the dietary intake. We defined MetS according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. Multiple logistic regressions stratified by region were performed to estimate the association between cereal consumption and the risk of MetS, and the quantile regression analyzed the relationship between cereal consumption and individual components of MetS in 2015. The rice consumption in southern China (9.00 kg/month) was more than twice that in northern China (3.60 kg/month). Consumption of wheat and wheat products in northern China (4.20 kg/month) was more than twice that in southern China (1.50 kg/month). After we adjusted for potential confounders, rice consumption was inversely associated with a risk of MetS 0.709 (95% CI: 0.458–1.003), the intake of wheat and wheat products was positively associated with a risk of MetS 1.925 (95% CI: 1.292–2.867) in southern China. We found no association between the intake of cereal and the prevalence of MetS in northern China. The quantile regression showed that various cereals were differentially associated with the components of MetS. The association between cereal consumption and the risk of MetS, and the components of MetS varied across these two regions of China.
Reversing Type 2 Diabetes: A Narrative Review of the Evidence
Authors: Hallberg Sarah J , Gershuni Victoria M , Hazbun Tamara L , Athinarayanan Shaminie J
Published: April 2019

Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) has long been identified as an incurable chronic disease based on traditional means of treatment. Research now exists that suggests reversal is possible through other means that have only recently been embraced in the guidelines. This narrative review examines the evidence for T2D reversal using each of the three methods, including advantages and limitations for each. Methods: A literature search was performed, and a total of 99 original articles containing information pertaining to diabetes reversal or remission were included. Results: Evidence exists that T2D reversal is achievable using bariatric surgery, low-calorie diets (LCD), or carbohydrate restriction (LC). Bariatric surgery has been recommended for the treatment of T2D since 2016 by an international diabetes consensus group. Both the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) now recommend a LC eating pattern and support the short-term use of LCD for weight loss. However, only T2D treatment, not reversal, is discussed in their guidelines. Conclusion: Given the state of evidence for T2D reversal, healthcare providers need to be educated on reversal options so they can actively engage in counseling patients who may desire this approach to their disease.
Strong Effective Coupling, Meson Ground States, and Glueball within Analytic Confinement
Authors: Ganbold Gurjav
Published: April 2019

The phenomena of strong running coupling and hadron mass generating have been studied in the framework of a QCD-inspired relativistic model of quark-gluon interaction with infrared-confined propagators. We derived a meson mass equation and revealed a specific new behavior of the mass-dependent strong coupling α ^ s ( M ) defined in the time-like region. A new infrared freezing point α ^ s ( 0 ) = 1.03198 at origin has been found and it did not depend on the confinement scale Λ > 0 . Independent and new estimates on the scalar glueball mass, ‘radius’ and gluon condensate value have been performed. The spectrum of conventional mesons have been calculated by introducing a minimal set of parameters: the masses of constituent quarks and Λ . The obtained values are in good agreement with the latest experimental data with relative errors less than 1.8 percent. Accurate estimates of the leptonic decay constants of pseudoscalar and vector mesons have been performed.
Non-Synergistic Effect of Trichoderma harzianum and Glomus spp. in Reducing Infection of Fusarium Wilt in Banana
Authors: Castillo Arfe , Puig Cecirly , Cumagun Christian
Published: April 2019

Philippine banana is currently threatened by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (FocR4). This study investigated the use of Trichoderma harzianum pre-treated with Glomus spp, as a means of managing Fusarium wilt on young ‘Lakatan’ banana seedlings. Results showed that Glomus applied basally significantly improved banana seedling growth with increased increment in plant height and pseudostem diameter and heavier root weight. The application of Glomus spp. alone offered 100% protection to the ‘Lakatan’ seedlings against FocR4 as indicated by the absence of the wilting symptom. A combination of T. harzianum and Glomus spp. also gave significant effect against Fusarium wilt through delayed disease progression in the seedlings but was not synergistic. Competitive effects were suspected when application of the two biological control agents on banana roots was done simultaneously.
Chemical Profile and Biological Activities of Essential Oil from Artemisia vulgaris L. Cultivated in Brazil
Authors: Malik Sonia , de Mesquita Ludmilla Santos Silva , Silva Carolina Rocha , de Mesquita José Wilson Carvalho , de Sá Rocha Emmeline , Bose Jayakumar , Abiri Rambod , de Maria Silva Figueiredo Patricia , Costa-Júnior Livio M.
Published: April 2019

Essential oil from the leaves of Artemisia vulgaris L. (Compositae) cultivated in Brazil was investigated for its chemical composition and biological activities including antibacterial, antifungal, and anthelmintic. The constituents of essential oils isolated by hydro-distillation were examined by GC-MS and a total of 18 components were identified. The essential oil was dominated by oxygenated sesquiterpenes (44.4%), sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (33.3%), and oxygenated monoterpenes (16.6%). Caryophyllene (37.45%), germacrene D (16.17%), and humulene (13.66%) were the major components. The essential oils from A. vulgaris showed bactericidal and fungicidal properties against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, respectively. Anthelmintic activity against Haemonchus contortus was absent in this essential oil. Altogether above results indicate that essential oils from A. vulgaris can be used for various medicinal purposes.
Feasibility Study of Mesoporous Silica Particles for Pulmonary Drug Delivery: Therapeutic Treatment with Dexamethasone in a Mouse Model of Airway Inflammation
Authors: Gulin-Sarfraz Tina , Jonasson Sofia , Wigenstam Elisabeth , von Haartman Eva , Bucht Anders , Rosenholm Jessica M.
Published: April 2019

Diseases in the respiratory tract rank among the leading causes of death in the world, and thus novel and optimized treatments are needed. The lungs offer a large surface for drug absorption, and the inhalation of aerosolized drugs are a well-established therapeutic modality for local treatment of lung conditions. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery platforms are gaining importance for use through the pulmonary route. By using porous carrier matrices, higher doses of especially poorly soluble drugs can be administered locally, reducing their side effects and improving their biodistribution. In this study, the feasibility of mesoporous silica particles (MSPs) as carriers for anti-inflammatory drugs in the treatment of airway inflammation was investigated. Two different sizes of particles on the micron and nanoscale (1 µm and 200 nm) were produced, and were loaded with dexamethasone (DEX) to a loading degree of 1:1 DEX:MSP. These particles were further surface-functionalized with a polyethylene glycol–polyethylene imine (PEG–PEI) copolymer for optimal aqueous dispersibility. The drug-loaded particles were administered as an aerosol, through inhalation to two different mice models of neutrophil-induced (by melphalan or lipopolysaccharide) airway inflammation. The mice received treatment with either DEX-loaded MSPs or, as controls, empty MSPs or DEX only; and were evaluated for treatment effects 24 h after exposure. The results show that the MEL-induced airway inflammation could be treated by the DEX-loaded MSPs to the same extent as free DEX. Interestingly, in the case of LPS-induced inflammation, even the empty MSPs significantly down-modulated the inflammatory response. This study highlights the potential of MSPs as drug carriers for the treatment of diseases in the airways.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of RGD–Cryptophycin Conjugates for Targeted Drug Delivery
Authors: Borbély Adina , Figueras Eduard , Martins Ana , Esposito Simone , Auciello Giulio , Monteagudo Edith , Di Marco Annalise , Summa Vincenzo , Cordella Paola , Perego Raffaella , Kemker Isabell , Frese Marcel , Gallinari Paola , Steinkühler Christian , Sewald Norbert
Published: April 2019

Cryptophycins are potent tubulin polymerization inhibitors with picomolar antiproliferative potency in vitro and activity against multidrug-resistant (MDR) cancer cells. Because of neurotoxic side effects and limited efficacy in vivo, cryptophycin-52 failed as a clinical candidate in cancer treatment. However, this class of compounds has emerged as attractive payloads for tumor-targeting applications. In this study, cryptophycin was conjugated to the cyclopeptide c(RGDfK), targeting integrin αvβ3, across the protease-cleavable Val-Cit linker and two different self-immolative spacers. Plasma metabolic stability studies in vitro showed that our selected payload displays an improved stability compared to the parent compound, while the stability of the conjugates is strongly influenced by the self-immolative moiety. Cathepsin B cleavage assays revealed that modifications in the linker lead to different drug release profiles. Antiproliferative effects of Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)–cryptophycin conjugates were evaluated on M21 and M21-L human melanoma cell lines. The low nanomolar in vitro activity of the novel conjugates was associated with inferior selectivity for cell lines with different integrin αvβ3 expression levels. To elucidate the drug delivery process, cryptophycin was replaced by an infrared dye and the obtained conjugates were studied by confocal microscopy.
New Insights into Leaf Physiological Responses to Ozone for Use in Crop Modelling
Authors: Osborne Stephanie , Pandey Divya , Mills Gina , Hayes Felicity , Harmens Harry , Gillies David , Büker Patrick , Emberson Lisa
Published: April 2019

Estimating food production under future air pollution and climate conditions in scenario analysis depends on accurately modelling ozone (O3) effects on yield. This study tests several assumptions that form part of published approaches for modelling O3 effects on photosynthesis and leaf duration against experimental data. In 2015 and 2016, two wheat cultivars were exposed in eight hemispherical glasshouses to O3 ranging from 22 to 57 ppb (24 h mean), with profiles ranging from raised background to high peak treatments. The stomatal O3 flux (Phytotoxic Ozone Dose, POD) to leaves was simulated using a multiplicative stomatal conductance model. Leaf senescence occurred earlier as average POD increased according to a linear relationship, and the two cultivars showed very different senescence responses. Negative effects of O3 on photosynthesis were only observed alongside O3-induced leaf senescence, suggesting that O3 does not impair photosynthesis in un-senesced flag leaves at the realistic O3 concentrations applied here. Accelerated senescence is therefore likely to be the dominant O3 effect influencing yield in most agricultural environments. POD was better than 24 h mean concentration and AOT40 (accumulated O3 exceeding 40 ppb, daylight hours) at predicting physiological response to O3, and flux also accounted for the difference in exposure resulting from peak and high background treatments.
Intelligent Machine Learning: Tailor-Making Macromolecules
Authors: Mohammadi Yousef , Saeb Mohammad Reza , Penlidis Alexander , Jabbari Esmaiel , J. Stadler Florian , Zinck Philippe , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: April 2019

Nowadays, polymer reaction engineers seek robust and effective tools to synthesize complex macromolecules with well-defined and desirable microstructural and architectural characteristics. Over the past few decades, several promising approaches, such as controlled living (co)polymerization systems and chain-shuttling reactions have been proposed and widely applied to synthesize rather complex macromolecules with controlled monomer sequences. Despite the unique potential of the newly developed techniques, tailor-making the microstructure of macromolecules by suggesting the most appropriate polymerization recipe still remains a very challenging task. In the current work, two versatile and powerful tools capable of effectively addressing the aforementioned questions have been proposed and successfully put into practice. The two tools are established through the amalgamation of the Kinetic Monte Carlo simulation approach and machine learning techniques. The former, an intelligent modeling tool, is able to model and visualize the intricate inter-relationships of polymerization recipes/conditions (as input variables) and microstructural features of the produced macromolecules (as responses). The latter is capable of precisely predicting optimal copolymerization conditions to simultaneously satisfy all predefined microstructural features. The effectiveness of the proposed intelligent modeling and optimization techniques for solving this extremely important ‘inverse’ engineering problem was successfully examined by investigating the possibility of tailor-making the microstructure of Olefin Block Copolymers via chain-shuttling coordination polymerization.
Nonlinearity in the Mechanical Response of Rubber as Investigated by High-Frequency DMA
Authors: Syed Imran Hussain , Vouagner Pascal , Fleck Frank , Lacayo-Pineda Jorge
Published: April 2019

Nonlinear material response is analysed with the Fourier transform (FT) of the raw signal measured by a high-frequency dynamic mechanical analyzer (HF DMA). It is known from rheological behaviour of elastomers that reinforcing fillers additionally induce nonlinearity in an already inherently nonlinear system. This behaviour is often described in terms of a mechanical response of strain sweeps, essentially the transition from the linear viscoelastic (LVE) to the nonlinear viscoelastic (NVE) region. In the current investigation, the NVE region could be observed with respect to frequency under low-amplitude deformation. A foldover effect was observed, whereby the material exhibited a nonlinear dependency in relation to the increment of the filler amount above the percolation threshold. In addition, an apparent superharmonic resonance was observed within higher orders of vibrational modes which is further indication of nonlinearity. In this paper, the analytical approach is presented as a novel method to characterise the behaviour of the polymer–filler interaction by HF DMA.
Electrospun Combination of Peppermint Oil and Copper Sulphate with Conducive Physico-Chemical properties for Wound Dressing Applications
Authors: Jaganathan Saravana Kumar , Mani Mohan Prasath , Khudzari Ahmad Zahran Md
Published: April 2019

The ultimate goal in tissue engineering is to fabricate a scaffold which could mimic the native tissue structure. In this work, the physicochemical and biocompatibility properties of electrospun composites based on polyurethane (PU) with added pepper mint (PM) oil and copper sulphate (CuSO4) were investigated. Field Emission Electron microscope (FESEM) study depicted the increase in mean fiber diameter for PU/PM and decrease in fiber diameter for PU/PM/CuSO4 compared to the pristine PU. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed the formation of a hydrogen bond for the fabricated composites as identified by an alteration in PU peak intensity. Contact angle analysis presented the hydrophobic nature of pristine PU and PU/PM while the PU/PM/CuSO4 showed hydrophilic behavior. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis revealed the increase in the surface roughness for the PU/PM while PU/PM/CuSO4 showed a decrease in surface roughness compared to the pristine PU. Blood compatibility studies showed improved blood clotting time and less toxic behavior for the developed composites than the pristine PU. Finally, the cell viability of the fabricated composite was higher than the pristine PU as indicated in the MTS assay. Hence, the fabricated wound dressing composite based on PU with added PM and CuSO4 rendered a better physicochemical and biocompatible nature, making it suitable for wound healing applications.
On the Gas Storage Properties of 3D Porous Carbons Derived from Hyper-Crosslinked Polymers
Authors: Gatti Giorgio , Errahali Mina , Tei Lorenzo , Cossi Maurizio , Marchese Leonardo
Published: April 2019

The preparation of porous carbons by post-synthesis treatment of hypercrosslinked polymers is described, with a careful physico-chemical characterization, to obtain new materials for gas storage and separation. Different procedures, based on chemical and thermal activations, are considered; they include thermal treatment at 380 °C, and chemical activation with KOH followed by thermal treatment at 750 or 800 °C; the resulting materials are carefully characterized in their structural and textural properties. The thermal treatment at temperature below decomposition (380 °C) maintains the polymer structure, removing the side-products of the polymerization entrapped in the pores and improving the textural properties. On the other hand, the carbonization leads to a different material, enhancing both surface area and total pore volume—the textural properties of the final porous carbons are affected by the activation procedure and by the starting polymer. Different chemical activation methods and temperatures lead to different carbons with BET surface area ranging between 2318 and 2975 m2/g and pore volume up to 1.30 cc/g. The wise choice of the carbonization treatment allows the final textural properties to be finely tuned by increasing either the narrow pore fraction or the micro- and mesoporous volume. High pressure gas adsorption measurements of methane, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide of the most promising material are investigated, and the storage capacity for methane is measured and discussed.
Direction Dependent Electrical Conductivity of Polymer/Carbon Filler Composites
Authors: Kunz Karina , Krause Beate , Kretzschmar Bernd , Juhasz Levente , Kobsch Oliver , Jenschke Wolfgang , Ullrich Mathias , Pötschke Petra
Published: April 2019

The method of measuring electrical volume resistivity in different directions was applied to characterize the filler orientation in melt mixed polymer composites containing different carbon fillers. For this purpose, various kinds of fillers with different geometries and aspect ratios were selected, namely carbon black (CB), graphite (G) and expanded graphite (EG), branched multiwalled carbon nanotubes (b-MWCNTs), non-branched multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). As it is well known that the shaping process also plays an important role in the achieved electrical properties, this study compares results for compression molded plates with random filler orientations in the plane as well as extruded films, which have, moreover, conductivity differences between extrusion direction and perpendicular to the plane. Additionally, the polymer matrix type (poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide 6 (PA6)) and filler concentration were varied. For the electrical measurements, a device able to measure the electrical conductivity in two directions was developed and constructed. The filler orientation was analyzed using the ratio σin/th calculated as in-plane conductivity σin-plane (σin) divided by through-plane conductivity σthrough-plane (σth). The ratio σin/th is expected to increase with more pronounced filler orientation in the processing direction. In the extruded films, alignment within the plane was assigned by dividing the in-plane conductivity in the extrusion direction (x) by the in-plane conductivity perpendicular to the extrusion direction (y). The conductivity ratios depend on filler type and concentration and are higher the higher the filler aspect ratio and the closer the filler content is to the percolation concentration.
Enhanced Insulation Performances of Crosslinked Polyethylene Modified by Chemically Grafting Chloroacetic Acid Allyl Ester
Authors: Zhao Xin-Dong , Sun Wei-Feng , Zhao Hong
Published: April 2019

Modified crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) with appreciably enhanced DC electrical insulation properties has been developed by chemical modification of grafting chloroacetic acid allyl ester (CAAE), exploring the trapping mechanism of charge transport inhibition. The bound state traps deriving from grafted molecule are analyzed by first-principles calculations, in combination with the electrical DC conductivity and dielectric breakdown strength experiments to study the underlying mechanism of improving the electrical insulation properties. In contrast to pure XLPE, the XLPE-graft-CAAE represents significantly suppressed space charge accumulation, increased breakdown strength, and reduced conductivity. The substantial deep traps are generated in XLPE-graft-CAAE molecules by polar group of grafted CAAE and accordingly decrease charge mobility and raise charge injection barrier, consequently suppressing space charge accumulation and charge carrier transport. The well agreement of experiments and quantum mechanics calculations suggests a prospective material modification strategy for achieving high-voltage polymer dielectric materials without nanotechnology difficulties as for nanodielectrics.
Effect of Material Composition on Tunable Surface Roughness of Magnetoactive Elastomers
Authors: Glavan Gašper , Kettl Wolfgang , Brunhuber Alexander , Shamonin Mikhail , Drevenšek-Olenik Irena
Published: April 2019

We investigated magnetic-field-induced modifications of the surface roughness of magnetoactive elastomers (MAEs) with four material compositions incorporating two concentrations of ferromagnetic microparticles (70 wt% and 80 wt%) and exhibiting two shear storage moduli of the resulting composite material (about 10 kPa and 30 kPa). The analysis was primarily based on spread optical reflection measurements. The surfaces of all four materials were found to be very smooth in the absence of magnetic field (RMS roughness below 50 nm). A maximal field-induced roughness modification (approximately 1 μm/T) was observed for the softer material with the lower filler concentration, and a minimal modification (less than 50 nm/T) was observed for the harder material with the higher filler concentration. All four materials showed a significant decrease in the total optical reflectivity with an increasing magnetic field as well. This effect is attributed to the existence of a distinct surface layer that is depleted of microparticles in the absence of a magnetic field but becomes filled with particles in the presence of the field. We analyzed the temporal response of the reflective properties to the switching on and off of the magnetic field and found switching-on response times of around 0.1 s and switching-off response times in the range of 0.3–0.6 s. These observations provide new insight into the magnetic-field-induced surface restructuring of MAEs and may be useful for the development of magnetically reconfigurable elastomeric optical surfaces.
An Analysis of the Early Regeneration of Mangrove Forests using Landsat Time Series in the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Otero Viviana , Van De Kerchove Ruben , Satyanarayana Behara , Mohd-Lokman Husain , Lucas Richard , Dahdouh-Guebas Farid
Published: April 2019

Time series of satellite sensor data have been used to quantify mangrove cover changes at regional and global levels. Although mangrove forests have been monitored using remote sensing techniques, the use of time series to quantify the regeneration of these forests still remains limited. In this study, we focus on the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve (MMFR) located in Peninsular Malaysia, which has been under silvicultural management since 1902 and provided the opportunity to investigate the use of Landsat annual time series (1988–2015) for (i) detecting clear-felling events that take place in the reserve as part of the local management, and (ii) tracing back and quantifying the early regeneration of mangrove forest patches after clear-felling. Clear-felling events were detected for each year using the Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI) derived from single date (cloud-free) or multi-date composites of Landsat sensor data. From this series, we found that the average period for the NDMI to recover to values observed prior to the clear-felling event between 1988 and 2015 was 5.9 ± 2.7 years. The maps created in this study can be used to guide the replantation strategies, the clear-felling planning, and the management and monitoring activities of the MMFR.
AS-CRI: A New Metric of FTIR-Based Apparent Spectral-Contrast Radiant Intensity for Remote Thermal Signature Analysis
Authors: Kim Sungho , Kim Jungho , Lee Jinyong , Ahn Junmo
Published: April 2019

Infrared signature analysis that considers both the target and background is fundamentally important to the development of target detection systems as well as in the design of ships for thermal stealth. This paper presents the analysis results of long-term infrared signature variations in terms of the apparent spectral-contrast radiant intensity measured using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR)-based hyperspectral images. A novel apparent spectral-contrast radiant intensity (AS-CRI) measure is proposed to evaluate the spectral infrared signature accurately at the sensor point of view. The spectral information by AS-CRI can provide the optimal band for either target detection or thermal stealth purposes, considering the background and atmospheric transmittance. In addition, the effects of seasonal and weather variations were analyzed from the long-term hyperspectral image database constructed during 2018.01–2018.08 (three times a day). A TELOPS HYPER-CAM MWE camera was adopted to acquire 374 bands in 1.5–5.5 μm. The automatic weather system (AWS) can provide 24 h weather recordings for the signature evaluation. The experimental results validate the utility of the novel AS-CRI method to find spectral bands for a range of infrared signature applications including small infrared target detection.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Remote Sensing of Atmospheric Conditions for Wind Energy Applications”
Authors: Hasager Charlotte Bay , Sjöholm Mikael
Published: April 2019

This Special Issue hosts papers on aspects of remote sensing for atmospheric conditions for wind energy applications. The wind lidar technology is presented from a theoretical view on the coherent focused Doppler lidar principles. Furthermore, wind lidar for applied use for wind turbine control, wind farm wake, and gust characterizations are presented, as well as methods to reduce uncertainty when using lidar in complex terrain. Wind lidar observations are used to validate numerical model results. Wind Doppler lidar mounted on aircraft used for observing winds in hurricane conditions and Doppler radar on the ground used for very short-term wind forecasting are presented. For the offshore environment, floating lidar data processing is presented as well as an experiment with wind-profiling lidar on a ferry for model validation. Assessments of wind resources in the coastal zone using wind-profiling lidar and global wind maps using satellite data are presented.