bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calpurnia aurea (Aiton) Benth Extracts Reduce Quorum Sensing Controlled Virulence Factors in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Cosa Sekelwa , Rakoma Jostina R. , Yusuf Abdullahi A. , Tshikalange Thilivhali E.
Published: May 2020

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the causative agent of several life-threatening human infections. Like many other pathogens, P. aeruginosa exhibits quorum sensing (QS) controlled virulence factors such as biofilm during disease progression, complicating treatment with conventional antibiotics. Thus, impeding the pathogen’s QS circuit appears as a promising alternative strategy to overcome pseudomonas infections. In the present study, Calpurnia aurea were evaluated for their antibacterial (minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC)), anti-quorum sensing/antivirulence (AQS), and antibiofilm potential against P. aeruginosa. AQS and antivirulence (biofilm formation, swimming, and swarming motility) activities of plant extracts were evaluated against Chromobacterium violaceum and P. aeruginosa, respectively. The in vitro AQS potential of the individual compounds were validated using in silico molecular docking. Acetone and ethanolic extracts of C. aurea showed MIC at 1.56 mg/mL. The quantitative violacein inhibition (AQS) assay showed ethyl acetate extracts as the most potent at a concentration of 1 mg/mL. GCMS analysis of C. aurea revealed 17 compounds; four (pentadecanol, dimethyl terephthalate, terephthalic acid, and methyl mannose) showed potential AQS through molecular docking against the CviR protein of C. violaceum. Biofilm of P. aeruginosa was significantly inhibited by ≥60% using 1-mg/mL extract of C. aurea. Confocal laser scanning microscopy correlated the findings of crystal violet assay with the extracts significantly altering the swimming motility. C. aurea extracts reduced the virulence of pseudomonas, albeit in a strain- and extract-specific manner, showing their suitability for the identification of lead compounds with QS inhibitory potential for the control of P. aeruginosa infections.
Dual-Purpose Photometric-Conductivity Detector for Simultaneous and Sequential Measurements in Flow Analysis
Authors: Mantim Thitirat , Chaisiwamongkhol Korbua , Uraisin Kanchana , Hauser Peter C. , Wilairat Prapin , Nacapricha Duangjai
Published: May 2020

This work presents a new dual-purpose detector for photometric and conductivity measurements in flow-based analysis. The photometric detector is a paired emitter–detector diode (PEDD) device, whilst the conductivity detection employs a capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detector (C4D). The flow-through detection cell is a rectangular acrylic block (ca. 2 × 2 × 1.5 cm) with cylindrical channels in Z-configuration. For the PEDD detector, the LED light source and detector are installed inside the acrylic block. The two electrodes of the C4D are silver conducting ink painted on the PEEK inlet and outlet tubing of the Z-flow cell. The dual-purpose detector is coupled with a sequential injection analysis (SIA) system for simultaneous detection of the absorbance of the orange dye and conductivity of the dissolved oral rehydration salt powder. The detector was also used for sequential measurements of creatinine and the conductivity of human urine samples. The creatinine analysis is based on colorimetric detection of the Jaffé reaction using the PEDD detector, and the conductivity of the urine, as measured by the C4D detector, is expressed in millisiemens (mS cm−1).
Recent Advances in Chemical Biology Using Benzophenones and Diazirines as Radical Precursors
Authors: Hassan Muhammad Murtaza , Olaoye Olasunkanmi O.
Published: May 2020

The use of light-activated chemical probes to study biological interactions was first discovered in the 1960s, and has since found many applications in studying diseases and gaining deeper insight into various cellular mechanisms involving protein–protein, protein–nucleic acid, protein–ligand (drug, probe), and protein–co-factor interactions, among others. This technique, often referred to as photoaffinity labelling, uses radical precursors that react almost instantaneously to yield spatial and temporal information about the nature of the interaction and the interacting partner(s). This review focuses on the recent advances in chemical biology in the use of benzophenones and diazirines, two of the most commonly known light-activatable radical precursors, with a focus on the last three years, and is intended to provide a solid understanding of their chemical and biological principles and their applications.
Anthelmintic A-Type Procyanidins and Further Characterization of the Phenolic Composition of a Root Extract from Paullinia pinnata
Authors: Spiegler Verena
Published: May 2020

Extracts from the roots of Paullinia pinnata L. are used in West Africa as traditional remedies for a variety of diseases including infestations with soil-transmitted helminths. Based on the results of an ethnopharmacological survey in Ghana, an aqueous acetone (70%) extract was investigated for its anthelmintic and phytochemical properties. Partitioning of the crude extract followed by several fractionation steps of the ethyl acetate phase using Sephadex® LH-20, fast centrifugal partition chromatography, RP-18-MPLC and HPLC led to isolation of six oligomeric A-type procyanidins (1 to 6). To determine the anthelmintic activity, the crude extract, fractions and isolated compounds were tested in vitro against the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. A significantly better activity was observed for the trimeric A-type procyanidin (1) compared to a B-type trimer. However, this effect could not be generalized for the tetrameric procyanidins, for which the type of the interflavan-linkage (4→6 vs. 4→8) had the greatest impact on the bioactivity. Besides the procyanidins, three novel compounds, isofraxidin-7-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1″→6′)-β-d-glucopyranoside (17), 4-methoxycatechol-2-O-(5′′-O-vanilloyl-β-apiofuranosyl)-(1′′→2′)-β-glucopyranoside (18) and a 6-(3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-hexane-2,4-diol-2-O-hexoside (19) were isolated together with further ten known compounds (7 to 16), mainly coumarins and coumarinolignans. Except for 3-β-d-glucopyranosyloxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone (15), none of the isolated compounds has previously been described for P. pinnata. The anthelmintic activity was attributed to the presence of procyanidins, but not to any of the other compound classes. In summary, the findings rationalize the traditional use of P. pinnata root extracts as anthelmintic remedies.
Modification of Chitosan Membranes via Methane Ion Beam
Authors: Gholami Nasim , Jaleh Babak , Golbedaghi Reza , Larijani Majid Mojtahedzadeh , Wanichapichart Pikul , Nasrollahzadeh Mahmoud , Varma Rajender S.
Published: May 2020

Chitosan has been used for biomedical applications in recent years, primarily because of its biocompatibility. A chitosan membrane with a 30 μm thickness was prepared and investigated for its surface modification using methane ions. Methane ions were implanted into the chitosan membrane using a Kaufman ion source; bombardment was accomplished using three accelerating voltages of ion beams—30, 55, and 80 kV. The influence of the ion bombardment on morphology, crystallinity, and hydrophilicity was investigated. Attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy analysis showed that a triplet bond appeared after the implantation of methane ions (acceleration voltage: 80 kV), culminating in the creation of a more amorphous membrane structure. The analyses of atomic force microscopy (AFM) images showed that, with the increase in bombardment energy, the roughness of the surface changed. These results revealed that ion bombardment improved the hydrophilicity of the membranes and the water fluxes of chitosan membranes altered after methane ion bombardment.
Peptide Therapeutics 2.0
Authors: de la Torre Beatriz G. , Albericio Fernando
Published: May 2020

In recent years, the peptide drug discovery field has shown a high level of dynamism, with hundreds of academic groups working on this topic, the creation of new peptide-focused companies, and the consolidation of peptide business by so-called big pharma [...]
Peracetic Acid vs. Sodium Hypochlorite: Degradation and Transformation of Drugs in Wastewater
Authors: Luongo Giovanni , Previtera Lucio , Ladhari Afef , Di Fabio Giovanni , Zarrelli Armando
Published: May 2020

Numerous substances from different chemical sectors, from the pharmaceutical industry to the many consumer products available for everyday usage, can find their way into water intended for human consumption and wastewater, and can have adverse effects on the environment and human health. Thus, the disinfection process is an essential stage in water and wastewater treatment plants to destroy pathogenic microorganisms but it can form degradation byproducts. Sodium hypochlorite is the most common disinfectant, but the most important drawback associated with this kind of compound is the generation of toxic disinfection byproducts. Many studies have been carried out to identify alternative disinfectants, and in the last few years, peracetic acid has been highlighted as a feasible solution, particularly in wastewater treatment. This study compares the transformations of five emerging pollutants (caffeine, tramadol, irbesartan, diclofenac, trazodone) treated with peracetic acid, to evaluate their degradation and the possible formation of byproducts with those obtained with sodium hypochlorite. Although peracetic acid has many advantages, including a wide field of use against microorganisms and a low toxicity towards animal and plant organisms, it is not as effective in the degradation of the considered pollutants. These ones are recovered substantially and are unchanged quantitatively, producing a very low number of byproducts.
High Affinity Binding of N2-Modified Guanine Derivatives Significantly Disrupts the Ligand Binding Pocket of the Guanine Riboswitch
Authors: Matyjasik Michal M. , Hall Simone D. , Batey Robert T.
Published: May 2020

Riboswitches are important model systems for the development of approaches to search for RNA-targeting therapeutics. A principal challenge in finding compounds that target riboswitches is that the effector ligand is typically almost completely encapsulated by the RNA, which severely limits the chemical space that can be explored. Efforts to find compounds that bind the guanine/adenine class of riboswitches with a high affinity have in part focused on purines modified at the C6 and C2 positions. These studies have revealed compounds that have low to sub-micromolar affinity and, in a few cases, have antimicrobial activity. To further understand how these compounds interact with the guanine riboswitch, we have performed an integrated structural and functional analysis of representative guanine derivatives with modifications at the C8, C6 and C2 positions. Our data indicate that while modifications of guanine at the C6 position are generally unfavorable, modifications at the C8 and C2 positions yield compounds that rival guanine with respect to binding affinity. Surprisingly, C2-modified guanines such as N2-acetylguanine completely disrupt a key Watson–Crick pairing interaction between the ligand and RNA. These compounds, which also modulate transcriptional termination as efficiently as guanine, open up a significant new chemical space of guanine modifications in the search for antimicrobial agents that target purine riboswitches.
Changes in the Electrical Characteristics of Perovskite Solar Cells with Aging Time
Authors: Mahapatra Apurba , Parikh Nishi , Kumar Pawan , Kumar Manoj , Prochowicz Daniel , Kalam Abul , Tavakoli Mohammad Mahdi , Yadav Pankaj
Published: May 2020

The last decade has witnessed the impressive progress of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), with power conversion efficiency exceeding 25%. Nevertheless, the unsatisfactory device stability and current–voltage hysteresis normally observed with most PSCs under operational conditions are bottlenecks that hamper their further commercialization. Understanding the electrical characteristics of the device during the aging process is important for the design and development of effective strategies for the fabrication of stable PSCs. Herein, electrochemical impedance spectroscopical (IS) analyses are used to study the time-dependent electrical characteristics of PSC. We demonstrate that both the dark and light ideality factors are sensitive to aging time, indicating the dominant existence of trap-assisted recombination in the investigated device. By analyzing the capacitance versus frequency responses, we show that the low-frequency capacitance increases with increasing aging time due to the accumulation of charges or ions at the interfaces. These results are correlated with the observed hysteresis during the current–voltage measurement and provide an in-depth understanding of the degradation mechanism of PSCs with aging time.
Synergistic Effects of Thiosemicarbazides with Clinical Drugs against S. aureus
Authors: Chudzik-Rząd Beata , Malm Anna , Trotsko Nazar , Wujec Monika , Plech Tomasz , Paneth Agata
Published: May 2020

Antimicrobial resistance spurred by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics is a major global health concern, and of the Gram positive bacteria, S. aureus is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity. Alternative strategies to treat S. aureus infections, such as combination therapy, are urgently needed. In this study, a checkerboard method was used to evaluate synergistic interactions between nine thiosemicarbazides (4-benzoyl-1-(2,3-dichloro-benzoyl)thiosemicarbazides 1–5 and 4-aryl-1-(2-fluorobenzoyl)thiosemicarbazides 6–9) and conventional antibiotics against S. aureus ATCC 25923, which were determined as the fractional inhibitory concentration indices (FICIs). For these experiments, amoxicillin, gentamicin, levofloxacin, linezolid, and vancomycin were selected to represent the five antimicrobial classes most commonly used in clinical practice. With one exception of 7-vancomycin combination, none of the forty-five thiosemicarbazide-antibiotic combinations tested had an antagonistic effect, showing promising results with respect to a combination therapy. The synergic effect was observed for the 2-linezolid, 4-levofloxacin, 5-linezolid, 6-gentamicin, 6-linezolid, and 7-levofloxacin combinations. No interactions were seen in combination of the thiosemicarbazide with gentamicin or vancomycin, whereas all combinations with linezolid acted in additive or synergism, except for 6-gentamicin and 7-linezolid. The 4-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2-fluorobenzoyl)thiosemicarbazide 6 showed a clear preference for the potency; it affected synergistically in combinations with gentamicin or linezolid and additively in combinations with amoxicillin, levofloxacin, or vancomycin. In further studies, the inhibitory potency of the thiosemicarbazides against S. aureus DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV was examined to clarify the molecular mechanism involved in their synergistic effect in combination with levofloxacin. The most potent synergist 6 at concentration of 100 µM was able to inhibit ~50% activity of S. aureus DNA gyrase, thereby suggesting that its anti-gyrase activity, although weak, may be a possible factor contributing to its synergism effect in combination with linezolid or gentamycin.
The Rise of Synaptic Density PET Imaging
Authors: Becker Guillaume , Dammicco Sylvestre , Bahri Mohamed Ali , Salmon Eric
Published: May 2020

Many neurological disorders are related to synaptic loss or pathologies. Before the boom of positrons emission tomography (PET) imaging of synapses, synaptic quantification could only be achieved in vitro on brain samples after autopsy or surgical resections. Until the mid-2010s, electron microscopy and immunohistochemical labelling of synaptic proteins were the gold-standard methods for such analyses. Over the last decade, several PET radiotracers for the synaptic vesicle 2A protein have been developed to achieve in vivo synapses visualization and quantification. Different strategies were used, namely radiolabelling with either 11C or 18F, preclinical development in rodent and non-human primates, and binding quantification with different kinetic modelling methods. This review provides an overview of these PET tracers and underlines their perspectives and limitations by focusing on radiochemical aspects, as well as preclinical proof-of-concept and the main clinical outcomes described so far.
Cell Growth Stimulation, Cell Cycle Alternation, and Anti-Apoptosis Effects of Bovine Bone Collagen Hydrolysates Derived Peptides on MC3T3-E1 Cells Ex Vivo
Authors: Wang Jianing , Liu Junli , Guo Yanchuan
Published: May 2020

Bovine bone collagen hydrolysates promote bone formation through regulating bone growth. However, the peptide sequences within these isolates have not been characterized. In this study, twenty-nine peptides from bovine bone collagen hydrolysates were purified and identified using nano-HPLC-MS-MS and Peak Studio analysis. HHGDQGAPGAVGPAGPRGPAGPSGPAGKDGR (Deamidation) and GPAGANGDRGEAGPAGPAGPAGPR (Deamidation) enhanced cell viability, inhibited apoptosis, and significantly altered the cell cycle of MC3T3-E1 osteoblast cells. These peptides were selected to perform molecular docking analysis to examine the mechanism underlying these bioactivities. Molecular docking analysis showed that these two peptides formed hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) to activate the EGFR-signaling pathway, which may explain their bioactivity. These findings indicate that these and other similar peptides might be candidates for the treatment of osteoporosis.
Optimization of an Extraction Solvent for Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors from Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Based on Its UPLC-MS/MS Metabolic Profiling
Authors: Salem Mohamed A. , Michel Haidy E. , Ezzat Marwa I. , Okba Mona M. , EL-Desoky Ahmed M. , Mohamed Shanaz O. , Ezzat Shahira M.
Published: May 2020

Hibiscus species (Malvaceae) have been long used as an antihypertensive folk remedy. The aim of our study was to specify the optimum solvent for extraction of the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibiting (ACEI) constituents from Hibiscus sabdariffa L. The 80% methanol extract (H2) showed the highest ACEI activity, which exceeds that of the standard captopril (IC50 0.01255 ± 0.00343 and 0.210 ± 0.005 µg/mL, respectively). Additionally, in a comprehensive metabolomics approach, an ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled to the high resolution tandem mass spectrometry (HRMS) method was used to trace the metabolites from each extraction method. Interestingly, our comprehensive analysis showed that the 80% methanol extract was predominated with secondary metabolites from all classes including flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic and organic acids. Among the detected metabolites, phenolic acids such as ferulic and chlorogenic acids, organic acids such as citrate derivatives and flavonoids such as kaempferol have been positively correlated to the antihypertensive potential. These results indicates that these compounds may significantly contribute synergistically to the ACE inhibitory activity of the 80% methanol extract.
Application of the Metal Reflector for Redistributing the Focusing Intensity of SPPs
Authors: Ji Jiaxin , Xu Pengfei , Lin Zhongwen , Chen Jiying , Li Jing , Meng Yonggang
Published: May 2020

The near-field photolithography system has attracted increasing attention in the micro- and nano-manufacturing field, due to the high efficiency, high resolution, and the low cost of the scheme. Nevertheless, the low quality of the nano-patterns significantly limits the industrial application of this technology. Theoretical calculations showed that the reason for the poor nano-patterns is the sharp attenuation of the surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) in the photoresist layer. The calculation results suggest that the waveguide mode, which is composed of the chromium-equivalent dielectric layer-aluminum, can facilitate the energy flux density distribution in the photoresist layer, resulting in the enhancement of the field intensity of SPPs in the photoresist layer. This reduces the linewidth of nano-patterns, while it enhances the pattern steepness. Eventually, the focusing energy of the photoresist layer can be improved. The finite-difference time-domain method was employed to simulate and verify the theoretical results. It is found that for the rotational near-field photolithography with 355 nm laser illumination, the linewidths of the nano-patterns with and without the aluminum reflector are 17.54 nm and 65.51 nm, respectively. The robustness of the experimental results implies that the application of the aluminum reflector enhances the focusing effect in the photoresist, which can broaden the application of the near-field photolithography.
Investigation of Local Conduction Mechanisms in Ca and Ti-Doped BiFeO3 Using Scanning Probe Microscopy Approach
Authors: Ivanov Maxim S. , Khomchenko Vladimir A. , Silibin Maxim V. , Karpinsky Dmitry V. , Blawert Carsten , Serdechnova Maria , Paixão José A.
Published: May 2020

In this work we demonstrate the role of grain boundaries and domain walls in the local transport properties of n- and p-doped bismuth ferrites, including the influence of these singularities on the space charge imbalance of the energy band structure. This is mainly due to the charge accumulation at domain walls, which is recognized as the main mechanism responsible for the electrical conductivity in polar thin films and single crystals, while there is an obvious gap in the understanding of the precise mechanism of conductivity in ferroelectric ceramics. The conductivity of the Bi0.95Ca0.05Fe1−xTixO3−δ (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1; δ = (0.05 − x)/2) samples was studied using a scanning probe microscopy approach at the nanoscale level as a function of bias voltage and chemical composition. The obtained results reveal a distinct correlation between electrical properties and the type of charged defects when the anion-deficient (x = 0) compound exhibits a three order of magnitude increase in conductivity as compared with the charge-balanced (x = 0.05) and cation-deficient (x = 0.1) samples, which is well described within the band diagram representation. The data provide an approach to control the transport properties of multiferroic bismuth ferrites through aliovalent chemical substitution.
Nanomaterials to Enhance Food Quality, Safety, and Health Impact
Authors: Torres-Giner Sergio , Prieto Cristina , Lagaron Jose M.
Published: May 2020

Food quality and safety are key aspects to guarantee that foods reach consumers in optimal conditions from the point of view of freshness and microbiology. Nanotechnology offers significant potential to secure or even enhance these aspects. Novel technologies, such as nanofabrication and nanoencapsulation, can provide new added value solutions for the fortification of foods with bioactives and targeted controlled release in the gut. Nanomaterials can also support food preservation aspects by being added directly into a food matrix or into food contact materials such as packaging. Thus, nanomaterials can be leveraged in the form of nanocomposites in food packaging design by melt compounding, solvent casting, lamination or electrohydrodynamic processing (EHDP) to promote passive, active, and even bioactive properties such as barrier, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and oxygen scavenging roles and the controlled release of functional ingredients. These attributes can be exerted either by the intended or non-intended migration of the nanomaterials or by the active substances they may carry. Lastly, nanomaterials can be advantageously applied to provide unique opportunities in Circular Bioeconomy strategies in relation to the valorization of, for instance, agro-industrial wastes and food processing by-products.
Inhibition of Neuromuscular Contractions of Human and Rat Colon by Bergamot Essential Oil and Linalool: Evidence to Support a Therapeutic Action
Authors: Straface Marilisa , Makwana Raj , Palmer Alexandra , Rombolà Laura , Aleong Joanne , Morrone Luigi , Sanger Gareth
Published: May 2020

Bergamot essential oil (BEO) added to food and drink promotes a citrus flavour. Folklore suggests benefits on gastrointestinal functions but with little supporting evidence. BEO and major constituents (linalool, limonene, linalyl acetate) were therefore examined for any ability to influence neuromuscular contractions of human and rat colon. Circular muscle strips (macroscopically-normal human colon obtained following ethical approval at cancer surgery; Sprague–Dawley rats) were suspended in baths (Krebs solution; 37 °C; 5% CO2 in O2) for measurement of neuronally-mediated contractions (prevented by tetrodotoxin or atropine) evoked by electrical field stimulation (5 Hz, 0.5 ms pulse width, 10s/minute, maximally-effective voltage), or contractions evoked by KCl (submaximally-effective concentrations). BEO and each constituent concentration dependently inhibited neuronally-mediated and KCl-induced contractions. In human: apparent pIC50 for BEO (volume/volume Krebs), respectively, 3.8 ± 0.3 and 4.4 ± 0.3; Imax 55.8% ± 4.2% and 37.5% ± 4.2%. For the constituents, the rank order of potency differed in human (linalool > limonene >> linalyl-acetate) and rat colon (linalyl-acetate > limonene = linalool), but rank order of efficacy was similar (linalool >> (BEO) = linalyl-acetate >> limonene). Thus, linalool had high efficacy but greater potency in human colon (Imax 76.8% ± 6.9%; pIC50 6.7 ± 0.2; n = 4) compared with rat colon (Imax 75.3% ± 1.9%; pIC50 5.8 ± 0.1; n = 4). The ability of BEO and linalool to inhibit human colon neuromuscular contractility provides a mechanism for use as complementary treatments of intestinal disorders.
Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Specific Exercise Performance Outcomes: A Systematic Review Including Meta-Analysis
Authors: M. Correia Joana , Santos Inês , Pezarat-Correia Pedro , Minderico Cláudia , V. Mendonca Goncalo
Published: May 2020

Intermittent fasting (IF) has been studied in athletes during Ramadan and in those willing to decrease adiposity while maintaining or increasing lean body mass. The purpose of this systematic review was to summarize the effects of IF on performance outcomes. We searched peer-reviewed articles in the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science and Sport Discus (up to December 2019). Studies were selected if they included samples of adults (≥18 years), had an experimental or observational design, investigated IF (Ramadan and time-restricted feeding (TRF)), and included performance outcomes. Meta-analytical procedures were conducted when feasible. Twenty-eight articles met the eligibility criteria. Findings indicated that maximum oxygen uptake is significantly enhanced with TRF protocols (SMD = 1.32, p = 0.001), but reduced with Ramadan intermittent fasting (Ramadan IF; SMD = −2.20, p < 0.001). Additional effects of IF may be observed in body composition (body mass and fat mass). Non-significant effects were observed for muscle strength and anaerobic capacity. While Ramadan IF may lead to impairments in aerobic capacity, TRF may be effective for improving it. As there are few studies per performance outcome, more research is needed to move the field forward.
Markers Indicating Body Vitamin D Stores and Responses of Liver and Adipose Tissues to Changes in Vitamin D Intake in Male Mice
Authors: Kiourtzidis Mikis , Kühn Julia , Brandsch Corinna , Baur Anja-Christina , Wensch-Dorendorf Monika , Stangl Gabriele I.
Published: May 2020

Circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) is regarded as the most reliable biomarker of vitamin D status. However, limited data exist concerning the suitability of 25(OH)D as an indicator of body vitamin D stores and the ability of adipose tissue to mobilize vitamin D. In the first study, in which male mice received different vitamin D3 doses for three weeks, we found strong linear response relationships between vitamin D3 intake and levels of vitamin D3 in the plasma (p < 0.001), liver (p < 0.001) and adipose tissues (p < 0.001), and strong positive correlations between plasma and tissue stores of vitamin D3 (p < 0.001). Plasma levels of 25(OH)D3 and 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (24,25(OH)2D3) showed weak or no correlations with tissue vitamin D3 stores. Data from a second study demonstrate a strong and rapid response of plasma 25(OH)D3 in vitamin D3-treated mice with a low vitamin D status. Additionally, mice fed a vitamin D-free diet showed a strong and rapid decline in vitamin D3 in the liver, whereas the decline in different adipose tissues was distinctly lower than that in the liver. To conclude, tissue stores of vitamin D3 were best reflected by plasma vitamin D3. In contrast to the liver, adipose tissues responded less sensitively to an absence of vitamin D intake.
Potential Nutrition and Health Claims in Deastringed Persimmon Fruits (Diospyros kaki L.), Variety ‘Rojo Brillante’, PDO ’Ribera del Xúquer’
Authors: Domínguez Díaz Laura , Dorta Eva , Maher Sarita , Morales Patricia , Fernández-Ruiz Virginia , Cámara Montaña , Sánchez-Mata María-Cortes
Published: May 2020

In Europe, nutrition and health claims made on food must be based on scientific evidence, which means a comprehensive evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) prior to authorisation. Processed foods are subject to numerous claims derived from the presence of bioactive compounds; however, natural food products, often the original sources of those compounds, are not habitually the subject of these claims. Although the consumption of persimmon fruit has important health benefits, up to date no specific health claims are authorised for this fruit. In this work, ‘Rojo Brillante’ persimmon fruits (Diospyros kaki L.), Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) ‘Ribera del Xúquer’ were characterized regarding the presence of fiber (soluble and insoluble), vitamin C (ascorbic and dehydroascorbic acids), carotenoids (neoxanthin, violaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, β- carotene) and mineral elements (Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Ca, Mg, Na, K). Different fruit batches harvested in different seasons were analyzed by standardized analytical methods (Association of Official Analytical Chemists, AOAC), high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV) and atomic absorption spectroscopy. Based on the results, Persimon® is potentially able to show two nutrition claims “Source of fiber” and “Sodium-free/salt-free”. This work could set the ground for future studies and to start considering natural food products as candidates for the use of approved claims.
The Comparison of Nutritional Value of Human Milk with Other Mammals’ Milk
Authors: Pietrzak-Fiećko Renata , Kamelska-Sadowska Anna M.
Published: May 2020

(1) Background: The variation in the concentration of different components found in milk depends on mammalian species, genetic, physiological, nutritional factors, and environmental conditions. Here, we analyse, for the first time, the content of different components (cholesterol concentration and fatty acids composition as well as the overall fat and mineral content determined using the same analytical methods) in milk of different mammal species. (2) Methods: The samples (n = 52) of human, cow, sheep, goat and mare milk were analyzed in triplicate for: cholesterol concentration, fatty acids profile and fat and mineral content (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, zinc). (3) Results: The highest fat content was reported in sheep milk (7.10 ± 3.21 g/dL). The highest cholesterol concentration was observed in bovine (20.58 ± 4.21 mg/dL) and sheep milk (17.07 ± 1.18 mg/dL). The saturated fatty acids were the lowest in human milk (46.60 ± 7.88% of total fatty acids). Goat milk had the highest zinc (0.69 ± 0.17 mg/dL), magnesium (17.30 ± 2.70 mg/dL) and potassium (183.60 ± 17.20 mg/dL) content. Sheep milk had the highest sodium (52.10 ± 3.20 mg/dL) and calcium (181.70 ± 17.20 mg/dL) concentration values. (4) Conclusions: The differences in nutritional value of milk could be perceived as a milk profile marker, helping to choose the best food for human nutrition.
Is There an Association Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Erectile Dysfunction? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Crafa Andrea , Cannarella Rossella , Condorelli Rosita A. , La Vignera Sandro , Calogero Aldo E.
Published: May 2020

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is found very frequently in the male population, in particular in its arteriogenic form, which also represents an important predictor of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Some evidence suggests that vitamin D could play a role in cardiovascular risk prevention thanks to its ability to reduce endothelial damage, oxidative stress, the production of inflammatory cytokines, and dyslipidemia. Since ED and CVDs have pathogenic mechanisms in common, numerous studies have evaluated a possible association between vitamin D deficiency (blood concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D < 20 ng/mL) and ED, but with conflicting results. This meta-analysis was therefore performed to clarify the discrepancy of the data so far published. To achieve this, articles have been searched extensively in the Pubmed, MEDLINE, Cochrane, Academic One Files, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases from the first day they were created until January 2020. The search strategy included pertinent Medical Subjects Headings (MeSH) terms. Of the 431 items retrieved, only eight observational studies were included, resulting in a total sample size of 4055 patients. It was found that 25-hydroxyvitaminD (25(OH)D) levels did not show any significant difference between patients with and without ED. However, when patients with vitamin D deficiency only were taken into account, the international index of erectile function (IIEF) score for erectile dysfunction was significantly worse than in controls. This association remained significant even when eugonadal-only patients were considered. Finally, we found that eugonadal patients with severe ED have lower 25(OH)D3 levels than patients with mild ED. In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggests an association between vitamin D deficiency and the presence of severe forms of ED, independent of testicular function.
Association of Dietary Fatty Acid Consumption Patterns with Risk of Hyper-LDL Cholesterolemia in Korean Adults
Authors: Choi Eunhee , Ahn Seoeun , Joung Hyojee
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to identify the association between the risk of hyper-LDL cholesterolemia (hyper-LDLC) and fatty acid consumption patterns (FACPs) using the data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) prospective cohort. A total of 6542 middle-aged Korean adults were included in the analysis. Four FACPs were identified through principal component analysis of the reported intakes of 34 fatty acids (FAs): “long-chain FA pattern”; “short & medium-chain saturated fatty acid (SFA) pattern”; “n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) pattern”; and “long-chain SFA pattern”. The “long-chain SFA pattern” lowered the risk of hyper-LDLC (relative risk (RR), 0.82; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.72–0.94; p for trend, 0.004) and the “short & medium-chain SFA pattern” increased the risk of hyper-LDLC (RR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.03–1.32; p for trend = 0.004). In sex-stratified analyses, the associations of the “long-chain SFA pattern” (RR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.58–0.93; p for trend = 0.007) and the “short & medium-chain SFA pattern” (RR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.07–1.69; p for trend = 0.003) with the hyper-LDLC risk were observed only in men, but not in women. These results suggest that FACPs with a high intake of long-chain SFA or a low intake of short and medium-chain SFA may protect Korean adults from hyper-LDLC.
Traditional Brazilian Diet and Olive Oil Reduce Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Severely Obese Individuals: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Santos Annelisa Silva e Alves de Carvalho , Rodrigues Ana Paula dos Santos , Rosa Lorena Pereira de Souza , Noll Matias , Silveira Erika Aparecida
Published: May 2020

Cardioprotective effects associated with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) have been studied within the Mediterranean diet. However, little is known about its consumption in the traditional Brazilian diet (DieTBra) or without any dietary prescription, particularly in severely obese individuals. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of DieTBra and EVOO in cardiometabolic risk factor (CMRF) reduction in severely obese individuals. We conducted a parallel randomized clinical trial with 149 severely obese individuals (body mass index ≥ 35.0 kg/m2) aged 18–65 years, assigned to three groups: 52 mL/day of EVOO (n = 50), DieTBra (n = 49), and DieTBra + 52 mL/day of EVOO (n = 50). Participants were followed up for 12 weeks. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) was the primary endpoint and several cardiometabolic parameters were secondary endpoints. Endpoints were compared at baseline and at the end of the study using analysis of variance, the Kruskal–Wallis test, and Student’s t-test. The TC/High-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio (−0.33 ± 0.68, p = 0.002) and LDL/HDL ratio (−0.26 ± 0.59, p = 0.005) decreased in the EVOO group. Delta values for all variables showed no significant statistical difference between groups. However, we highlight the clinical significance of LDL-c reduction in the EVOO group by 5.11 ± 21.79 mg/dL and in the DieTBra group by 4.27 ± 23.84 mg/dL. We also found a mean reduction of around 10% for Castelli II (LDL/HDL) and homocysteine in the EVOO group and TG and the TG/HDL ratio in the DieTBra group. EVOO or DieTBra when administered alone lead to reduction in some cardiometabolic risk parameters in severely obese individuals.
Curcumin Enhances the Antitumoral Effect Induced by the Recombinant Vaccinia Neu Vaccine (rV-neuT) in Mice with Transplanted Salivary Gland Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Focaccetti Chiara , Benvenuto Monica , Ciuffa Sara , Fazi Sara , Scimeca Manuel , Nardi Alessandra , Miele Martino Tony , Battisti Andrea , Bonanno Elena , Modesti Andrea , Masuelli Laura , Bei Roberto
Published: May 2020

The survival rate for head and neck cancer patients has not substantially changed in the last two decades. We previously showed that two rV-neuT intratumoral injections induced an efficient antitumor response and rejection of transplanted Neu (rat ErbB2/neu oncogene-encoded protein)-overexpressing salivary gland tumor cells in BALB-neuT mice (BALB/c mice transgenic for the rat ErbB2/neu oncogene). However, reiterated poxviral vaccinations increase neutralizing antibodies to viral proteins in humans that prevent immune response against the recombinant antigen expressed by the virus. Curcumin (CUR) is a polyphenol with antineoplastic and immunomodulatory properties. The aim of this study was to employ CUR administration to boost the anti-Neu immune response and anticancer activity induced by one rV-neuT intratumoral vaccination in BALB-neuT mice. Here, we demonstrated that the combined rV-neuT+CUR treatment was more effective at reducing tumor growth and increasing mouse survival, anti-Neu humoral response, and IFN-γ/IL-2 T-cell release in vitro than the individual treatment. rV-neuT+CUR-treated mice showed an increased infiltration of CD4+/CD8+ T lymphocytes within the tumor as compared to those that received the individual treatment. Overall, CUR enhanced the antitumoral effect and immune response to Neu induced by the rV-neuT vaccine in mice. Thus, the combined treatment might represent a successful strategy to target ErbB2/Neu-overexpressing tumors.
Association between Heat-Induced Chemical Markers and Ultra-Processed Foods: A Case Study on Breakfast Cereals
Authors: Morales Francisco J. , Mesías Marta , Delgado-Andrade Cristina
Published: May 2020

Nutritional composition and neo-formed contaminant content in ultra-processed foods, amongst other factors, may contribute to increasing overall risk of non-communicable diseases and cancer. Commercial breakfast cereals (n = 53) were classified according to the NOVA approach as un-/minimally processed (NOVA-1, 11%), processed (NOVA-3, 30%), and ultra-processed (NOVA-4, 59%) foods. Acrylamide and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) content as heat-induced chemical markers was taken from our research team database. The NutriScore was used as the nutritional profiling system. Samples were distributed between groups A (19%), B (13%), C (38%), and D (30%). No statistically significant differences in acrylamide and HMF were found across the NutriScore groups. Sugar content was the only nutritional descriptor found to be significantly different between processed (11.6 g/100 g) and ultra-processed (23.1 g/100 g) breakfast cereal groups. Sugar content correlated with acrylamide (p < 0.001) and HMF (p < 0.0001). Acrylamide and HMF contents were not significantly higher in the NOVA-4 group when compared with the NOVA-3 group. However, trends towards higher acrylamide and HMF content are observed, amounting to a change of 75 µg/kg and 13.3 mg/kg in processed breakfast cereals, and 142 µg/kg and 32.1 mg/kg in ultra-processed breakfast cereals, respectively. Thus, the NOVA classification may not reflect the extent of the thermal treatment applied to the breakfast cereal but the type and amount of ingredients incorporated. Ultra-processed breakfast cereal does not predict significantly higher toxicological concern based on acrylamide content than processed breakfast cereals; a clear trend is seen whose contributing factors should be further studied.
Plasma Trans Fatty Acid Levels, Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Lifestyle: Results from the Akershus Cardiac Examination 1950 Study
Authors: Chandra Anupam , Lyngbakken Magnus Nakrem , Eide Ivar Anders , Røsjø Helge , Vigen Thea , Ihle-Hansen Håkon , Orstad Eivind Bjørkan , Rønning Ole Morten , Berge Trygve , Schmidt Erik Berg , Tveit Arnljot , Omland Torbjørn , Svensson My
Published: May 2020

Intake of industrially produced trans fatty acids (iTFAs) has previously been associated with dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, hypertension and inflammation, as well as increased cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality. iTFA intake declined in Norway after the introduction of legislative bans against iTFA consumption. However, the relationship between the current iTFA intake and CV health is unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between current iTFA intake, reflected by plasma iTFA levels, and established CV risk factors. We also examined the associations between plasma ruminant TFA levels and CV risk factors. In this cross-sectional study, we included 3706 participants from a Norwegian general population, born in 1950 and residing in Akershus County, Norway. The statistical method was multivariable linear regression. Plasma iTFA levels were inversely associated with serum triglycerides (p < 0.001), fasting plasma glucose (p < 0.001), body mass index (p < 0.001), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.001 and p = 0.03) and C-reactive protein (p = 0.001). Furthermore, high plasma iTFA levels were associated with higher education and less smoking and alcohol consumption. We found that plasma ruminant trans fatty acids (rTFA) levels were favorably associated with CV risk factors. Furthermore, plasma iTFA levels were inversely associated with CV risk factors. However, our results might have been driven by lifestyle factors. Overall, our findings suggest that the current low intake of iTFAs in Norway does not constitute a threat to CV health.
Update on Streptococcus suis Research and Prevention in the Era of Antimicrobial Restriction: 4th International Workshop on S. suis
Authors: Segura Mariela , Aragon Virginia , Brockmeier Susan , Gebhart Connie , Greeff Astrid , Kerdsin Anusak , O’Dea Mark , Okura Masatoshi , Saléry Mariette , Schultsz Constance , Valentin-Weigand Peter , Weinert Lucy , Wells Jerry , Gottschalk Marcelo
Published: May 2020

Streptococcus suis is a swine pathogen and a zoonotic agent afflicting people in close contact with infected pigs or pork meat. Sporadic cases of human infections have been reported worldwide. In addition, S. suis outbreaks emerged in Asia, making this bacterium a primary health concern in this part of the globe. In pigs, S. suis disease results in decreased performance and increased mortality, which have a significant economic impact on swine production worldwide. Facing the new regulations in preventive use of antimicrobials in livestock and lack of effective vaccines, control of S. suis infections is worrisome. Increasing and sharing of knowledge on this pathogen is of utmost importance. As such, the pathogenesis and epidemiology of the infection, antimicrobial resistance, progress on diagnosis, prevention, and control were among the topics discussed during the 4th International Workshop on Streptococcus suis (held in Montreal, Canada, June 2019). This review gathers together recent findings on this important pathogen from lectures performed by lead researchers from several countries including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Spain, Thailand, The Netherlands, UK, and USA. Finally, policies and recommendations for the manufacture, quality control, and use of inactivated autogenous vaccines are addressed to advance this important field in veterinary medicine.
PEDV ORF3 Independently Regulates IκB Kinase β-Mediated NF-κB and IFN-β Promoter Activities
Authors: Kaewborisuth Challika , Koonpaew Surapong , Srisutthisamphan Kanjana , Viriyakitkosol Ratchanont , Jaru-ampornpan Peera , Jongkaewwattana Anan
Published: May 2020

The Open Reading Frame 3 (ORF3), an accessory protein of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), has been shown to interact with a myriad of cellular proteins, among which include the IκB kinase β (IKBKB). Here, specific IKBKB domains responsible for ORF3–IKBKB interaction were identified. Dysregulation of NF-κB and Type I interferon (IFN) in the presence of ORF3 was also demonstrated. We showed that while ORF3 was capable of up-regulating IKBKB-meditated NF-κB promoter activity, it surprisingly down-regulated the activation of IKBKB-meditated IFN-β promoter and expression of IFN-β mRNA. When overexpressed, ORF3 could suppress Poly I:C mediated type I IFN production and induction. Finally, we demonstrated that IKBKB- and RIG-I-mediated type I IFN induction by ORF3 resulted in different outcomes. Our study is the first to demonstrate the potential and complex roles of ORF3 in the involvement of aberrant immune signaling as well as in the virus–host interaction.