bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Nutrient Intake and Human Gut Microbiota in Monozygotic Twins
Authors: Matsumoto Natsuko , Park Jonguk , Tomizawa Rie , Kawashima Hitoshi , Hosomi Koji , Mizuguchi Kenji , Honda Chika , Ozaki Ritsuko , Iwatani Yoshinori , Watanabe Mikio , Kunisawa Jun
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives: The gut microbiota is associated with human health and dietary nutrition. Various studies have been reported in this regard, but it is difficult to clearly analyze human gut microbiota as individual differences are significant. The causes of these individual differences in intestinal microflora are genetic and/or environmental. In this study, we focused on differences between identical twins in Japan to clarify the effects of nutrients consumed on the entire gut microbiome, while excluding genetic differences. Materials and Methods: We selected healthy Japanese monozygotic twins for the study and confirmed their zygosity by matching 15 short tandem repeat loci. Their fecal samples were subjected to 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analyses to identify and compare the fluctuations in intestinal bacteria. Results: We identified 12 genera sensitive to environmental factors, and found that Lactobacillus was relatively unaffected by environmental factors. Moreover, we identified protein, fat, and some nutrient intake that can affect 12 genera, which have been identified to be more sensitive to environmental factors. Among the 12 genera, Bacteroides had a positive correlation with retinol equivalent intake (rs = 0.38), Lachnospira had a significantly negative correlation with protein, sodium, iron, vitamin D, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 intake (rs = −0.38, −0.41, −0.39, −0.63, −0.42, −0.49, respectively), Lachnospiraceae ND3007 group had a positive correlation with fat intake (rs = 0.39), and Lachnospiraceae UCG-008 group had a negative correlation with the saturated fatty acid intake (rs = −0.45). Conclusions: Our study is the first to focus on the relationship between human gut microbiota and nutrient intake using samples from Japanese twins to exclude the effects of genetic factors. These findings will broaden our understanding of the more intuitive relationship between nutrient intake and the gut microbiota and can be a useful basis for finding useful biomarkers that contribute to human health.
Myocardial Inflammation, Sports Practice, and Sudden Cardiac Death: 2021 Update
Authors: Compagnucci Paolo , Volpato Giovanni , Falanga Umberto , Cipolletta Laura , Conti Manuel Antonio , Grifoni Gino , Ciliberti Giuseppe , Stronati Giulia , Fogante Marco , Bergonti Marco , Sommariva Elena , Guerra Federico , Giovagnoni Andrea , Dello Russo Antonio , Casella Michela
Published: March 2021

Myocardial inflammation is an important cause of cardiovascular morbidity and sudden cardiac death in athletes. The relationship between sports practice and myocardial inflammation is complex, and recent data from studies concerning cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and endomyocardial biopsy have substantially added to our understanding of the challenges encountered in the comprehensive care of athletes with myocarditis or inflammatory cardiomyopathy (ICM). In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of myocarditis, ICM, and myopericarditis/perimyocarditis in athletes, with a special emphasis on arrhythmias, patient-tailored therapies, and sports eligibility issues.
Endovascular Interventional Radiology of the Urogenital Tract
Authors: Pozzi Mucelli Fabio , Pozzi Mucelli Roberta A. , Marrocchio Cristina , Tollot Saverio , Cova Maria A.
Published: March 2021

Interventional radiology of the male urogenital system includes percutaneous and endovascular procedures, and these last consist mostly of transcatheter arterial embolizations. At the kidney level, arterial embolizations are performed mainly for palliative treatment of parenchymal tumors, for renal traumas and, less frequently, for arteriovenous fistulas and renal aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms. These latter may often require emergency intervention as they can cause renal or peri-renal hematomas or significant hematuria. Transcatheter arterial embolization is also an effective therapy for intractable severe bladder hematuria secondary to a number of neoplastic and inflammatory conditions in the pelvis, including unresectable bladder cancer and radiation-induced or cyclophosphamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis. Endovascular interventional procedures for the penis are indicated for the treatment of post-traumatic priapism. In this article, we review the main endovascular radiological interventions of the male urogenital system, describing the technical aspects, results, and complications of each procedure at the various anatomical districts.
Initial Arterial pCO2 and Its Course in the First Hours of Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Show No Association with Recovery of Consciousness in Humans: A Single-Centre Retrospective Study
Authors: Mandigers Loes , den Uil Corstiaan A. , Bunge Jeroen J. H. , Gommers Diederik , dos Reis Miranda Dinis
Published: March 2021

Background: Cardiac arrest is a severe condition with high mortality rates, especially in the case of prolonged low-flow durations resulting in severe ischaemia and reperfusion injury. Changes in partial carbon dioxide concentration (pCO2) may aggravate this injury. Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) shortens the low-flow duration and enables close regulation of pCO2. We examined whether pCO2 is associated with recovery of consciousness. Methods: We retrospectively analysed ECPR patients ≥ 16 years old treated between 2010 and 2019. We evaluated initial arterial pCO2 and the course of pCO2 ≤ 6 h after initiation of ECPR. The primary outcome was the rate of recovery of consciousness, defined as Glasgow coma scale motor score of six. Results: Out of 99 ECPR patients, 84 patients were eligible for this study. The mean age was 47 years, 63% were male, 93% had a witnessed arrest, 45% had an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, and 38% had a recovery of consciousness. Neither initial pCO2 (Odds Ratio (OR) 0.93, 95% confidence interval 95% (CI) 0.78–1.08) nor maximum decrease of pCO2 (OR 1.03, 95% CI 0.95–1.13) was associated with the recovery of consciousness. Conclusion: Initial arterial pCO2 and the course of pCO2 in the first six hours after initiation of ECPR were not associated with the recovery of consciousness.
ECMO Retrieval over the Mediterranean Sea: Extending Hospital Arms
Authors: Hildreth Brianna A. , Panarello Giovanna , Martucci Gennaro , Tuzzolino Fabio , Piacentini Alberto , Occhipinti Giovanna , Giunta Andrea , Genco Fabio , Raffa Giuseppe M. , Pilato Michele , Capitanio Guido , Arcadipane Antonio
Published: March 2021

The retrieval and transport of patients from peripheral hospitals to high volume extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) centers aims to reduce complications and improve survival. In Sicily (Italy), our institute houses a mobile ECMO team that serves a population of around 10 million people for a vast area in southern Italy and Malta. This observational, descriptive study includes all patients that required veno–venous (V-V) ECMO and transport by a mobile team between October 2009 and May 2020. Linear and multiple logistic regressions were applied to explore the risk factors for mortality in the ICU. Kaplan–Meier estimates were generated to predict the survival in patients transported by helicopter or ambulance, and the two cohorts were compared according to their baseline characteristics. Of 122 patients transported, 89 (73%) survived to ICU discharge (50 (41%) patients were transported by ambulance, and 72 (59%) were transported by helicopter). Independent predictive factors associated with mortality in a stepwise multiple regression model were prone positioning, acute kidney injury, and the number of days spent on mechanical ventilation (MV). Kaplan–Meier estimates for survival favored the helicopter cohort (79%) rather than the ambulance cohort (64%). Patients transported by helicopter had better pre-ECMO profiles, with shorter hospital and ICU stays, a shorter duration of MV use, and higher RESP scores, which indicate better survival probabilities. ECMO transport can be carried out safely over long distances; in rural areas with underdeveloped roads, transportation via helicopter or ambulance can extend the arm of the hospital to remote areas. Early ECMO initiation can be crucial in improving survival outcomes, and when transportation is the limiting factor to starting ECMO support, it should be attempted at the earliest logistical stage possible.
An Experimental Study on Low-Cycle Fatigue Crack Initiation Life Prediction of Powder Superalloy FGH96 Based on the Manson-Coffin and Damage Mechanics Methods
Authors: Xu Yuanming , Chen Hao , Zhang Shuming , He Tianpeng , Liu Xuerong , Chang Xiayuan
Published: March 2021

The applicability of both prediction methods for low-cycle fatigue life of powder superalloy based on the Manson-Coffin equation and damage mechanics were addressed. Both fatigue life prediction models were evaluated by low-cycle fatigue experimental data of powder superalloy FGH96 with non-destructive standard parts and those with inclusions. Due to the characteristics of high strength and low plasticity of powder superalloy FGH96, errors in calculating the plastic strain amplitude deviate severely the prediction outcomes when using Manson-Coffin method. Meanwhile, by introducing the damage variable which characterizes the material damage, the damage evolution equation can be built by fitting the experimental data of standard parts and also applied to powder superalloy specimens containing inclusion. It is indispensable to accurately calculate the damage characterization parameter through finite element analysis in local stress concentration around the inclusion. The applicability of the prediction model was verified by the test life cycles of experimental specimens with different types and sizes of inclusions subsequently. Testing and simulation work showed much better prediction accuracies globally for the damage mechanics approach.
Effect of Ferric Ions on Sulfidization Flotation of Oxidize Digenite Fine Particles and Their Significance
Authors: Xue Jiwei , Ren Dawei , Wang Sen , Bu Xianzhong , Song Zhenguo , Zhao Chen , Chen Tong
Published: March 2021

Digenite fine particles are easily oxidized and ferric ions (Fe3+) commonly exist in the flotation pulp of digenite. This study investigated the effect of Fe3+ on the sulfidization flotation of oxidized digenite fine particles using sodium butyl xanthate (SBX) as a collector. The results of microflotation experiments show that the flotation rate and recovery of oxidized digenite fine particles can be improved by adding Na2S and SBX, whereas the existence of large amounts of Fe3+ is not beneficial for the sulfidization flotation of digenite. The results of Fe3+ adsorption, zeta potential, and contact angle measurements indicate that Fe3+ can be adsorbed on the digenite surface mainly in the form of Fe(OH)3, which hinders the adsorption of SBX and significantly reduces the surface hydrophobicity of digenite. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis further suggests that the poor surface hydrophobicity of digenite in the presence of Fe3+ is due to the production of large amounts of hydrophilic iron and copper oxides/hydroxides on the surface. Furthermore, optical microscopy analysis shows that these hydrophilic species effectively disperse digenite fine particles in the pulp, which eventually leads to the poor floatability of digenite. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the amount of Fe3+ present in the pulp and adsorbed on digenite surface before sulfidization to realize effective separation of oxidized digenite fine particles and iron sulfide minerals.
High Concentration Fine Particle Separation Performance in Hydrocyclones
Authors: Zhang Yuekan , Yang Meng , Jiang Lanyue , Wang Hui , Xu Jinguang , Yang Junru
Published: March 2021

The vast majority of current research on hydrocyclone field centrifugal separation focuses on low concentration fluids having volume fraction less than 3%. For high-concentration fluids having volume fractions greater than 10%, which are often encountered in engineering, the law governing particle motion and the classification mechanism are still unclear. In order to gain insights into the interaction between fine particles in the high concentration hydrocyclone field and to improve the hydrocyclone separation performance of these particles, a Dense Discrete Phase Model (DDPM) of the Euler-Eulerian method under the Ansys Fluent 14.5 software was employed. Numerical simulations were carried out to study the characteristics of the hydrocyclone field of dense particles and the influence of parameters, such as the diameter of the overflow outlet, diameter of the underflow outlet, and material concentration, on separation performance. The trajectories and separation efficiencies of two kinds of fine particles with different densities and six different particle sizes at high concentration were obtained. The results show that for the hydrocyclone classification of high-concentration fine particles, particles with large density and small particle size are more likely to enter the internal cyclone and discharge from the overflow. Particles with small density and large particle size are more likely to enter the external cyclone and discharge from the underflow. The research results of this topic could provide a feasible reference and theoretical basis for the centrifugal separation of high-concentration fine particle fluid.
Editorial for Special Issue “Ore Genesis and Metamorphism: Geochemistry, Mineralogy, and Isotopes”
Authors: Serov Pavel A.
Published: March 2021

Magmatism, ore genesis and metamorphism are commonly associated processes that define fundamental features of the Earth’s crustal evolution from the earliest Precambrian to Phanerozoic [...]
Adsorption Properties of Waste Building Sludge for Environmental Protection
Authors: Doušová Barbora , Bedrnová Eva , Reiterman Pavel , Keppert Martin , Koloušek David , Lhotka Miloslav , Mastný Libor
Published: March 2021

Waste building sludge (WBS) originating in the production of concrete prestressed poles (CSW) and technical stone (TSW) used in original and Fe-modified forms (CSWFe, TSWFe) was tested as an environmentally friendly and cheap sorbent of selected cations (Cd2+, Pb2+, Cs+) and anions (AsO43−, PO43−, CrO42−) from water. The experiments were performed with 0.1 and 0.5 mmol·L−1 model solutions in a batch manner at laboratory temperature. Adsorption data were fitted with the Langmuir model. The adsorption of cations (Pb2+ and Cd2+) ran almost quantitatively (>97%) on both CSW and TSW. Cesium (Cs+) adsorption on TSW reached 80%, while in the case of CSW, it was ineffective. The modification of CSW and TSW with FeII (CSWFe and TSWFe) improved their adsorption selectivity to anions by up to 70%. The adsorption of PO43− and AsO43− ran quantitatively (>98%) on modified CSWFe and TSWFe and also on initial CSW, while CrO42− was effectively adsorbed (≈80%) on TSWFe only. The adsorption affinity of tested ions in terms of adsorption capacity and sorbent consumption declined in order as follows: Pb2+ ≈ Cd2+ >> Cs+ for cations and AsO43− ≈ PO43− > CrO42− for anions.
The Glycolytic Pathway as a Target for Novel Onco-Immunology Therapies in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Curcio Claudia , Brugiapaglia Silvia , Bulfamante Sara , Follia Laura , Cappello Paola , Novelli Francesco
Published: March 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is one of the most lethal forms of human cancer, characterized by unrestrained progression, invasiveness and treatment resistance. To date, there are limited curative options, with surgical resection as the only effective strategy, hence the urgent need to discover novel therapies. A platform of onco-immunology targets is represented by molecules that play a role in the reprogrammed cellular metabolism as one hallmark of cancer. Due to the hypoxic tumor microenvironment (TME), PDA cells display an altered glucose metabolism—resulting in its increased uptake—and a higher glycolytic rate, which leads to lactate accumulation and them acting as fuel for cancer cells. The consequent acidification of the TME results in immunosuppression, which impairs the antitumor immunity. This review analyzes the genetic background and the emerging glycolytic enzymes that are involved in tumor progression, development and metastasis, and how this represents feasible therapeutic targets to counteract PDA. In particular, as the overexpressed or mutated glycolytic enzymes stimulate both humoral and cellular immune responses, we will discuss their possible exploitation as immunological targets in anti-PDA therapeutic strategies.
Sound Velocities of Generalized Lennard-Jones (n − 6) Fluids Near Freezing
Authors: Khrapak Sergey
Published: March 2021

In a recent paper [S. Khrapak, Molecules 25, 3498 (2020)], the longitudinal and transverse sound velocities of a conventional Lennard–Jones system at the liquid–solid coexistence were calculated. It was shown that the sound velocities remain almost invariant along the liquid–solid coexistence boundary lines and that their magnitudes are comparable with those of repulsive soft-sphere and hard-sphere models at the fluid–solid phase transition. This implies that attraction does not considerably affect the magnitude of the sound velocities at the fluid–solid phase transition. This paper provides further evidence to this by examining the generalized Lennard–Jones (n − 6) fluids with n ranging from 12 to 7 and demonstrating that the steepness of the repulsive term has only a minor effect on the magnitude of the sound velocities. Nevertheless, these minor trends are identified and discussed.
Stretching of Bombyx mori Silk Protein in Flow
Authors: Schaefer Charley , Laity Peter R. , Holland Chris , McLeish Tom C. B.
Published: March 2021

The flow-induced self-assembly of entangled Bombyx mori silk proteins is hypothesised to be aided by the ‘registration’ of aligned protein chains using intermolecularly interacting ‘sticky’ patches. This suggests that upon chain alignment, a hierarchical network forms that collectively stretches and induces nucleation in a precisely controlled way. Through the lens of polymer physics, we argue that if all chains would stretch to a similar extent, a clear correlation length of the stickers in the direction of the flow emerges, which may indeed favour such a registration effect. Through simulations in both extensional flow and shear, we show that there is, on the other hand, a very broad distribution of protein–chain stretch, which suggests the registration of proteins is not directly coupled to the applied strain, but may be a slow statistical process. This qualitative prediction seems to be consistent with the large strains (i.e., at long time scales) required to induce gelation in our rheological measurements under constant shear. We discuss our perspective of how the flow-induced self-assembly of silk may be addressed by new experiments and model development.
Berberine and Cisplatin Exhibit Synergistic Anticancer Effects on Osteosarcoma MG-63 Cells by Inhibiting the MAPK Pathway
Authors: Gao Xianxian , Zhang Chen , Wang Yanjie , Zhang Ping , Zhang Jingyu , Hong Tie
Published: March 2021

Berberine (BBR) has been reported to have potent anticancer activity and can increase the anticancer effects of chemotherapy drugs. The present study aims to investigate whether BBR and cisplatin (DDP) exert synergistic effects on the osteosarcoma (OS) MG-63 cell line. In the present study, MG-63 cells were treated with BBR and DDP alone or in combination. The effects of these therapeutics on cell viability, colony formation, migration, invasion, nuclear morphology, apoptosis, and the cell cycle, as well as their role in regulating the expression of proteins related to apoptosis, the cell cycle, and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, were determined. The results demonstrated that BBR or DDP significantly inhibited the proliferation of MG-63 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The combination treatment of BBR and DDP exerted a prominent inhibitory effect on proliferation and colony formation. Furthermore, the results showed that the combination treatment of BBR and DDP enhanced the inhibition of cell migration and invasion and reversed the changes in nuclear morphology. The results showed that the combination treatment of BBR and DDP induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase. Mechanistically, the combination treatment of BBR and DDP inhibited the expression of MMP-2/9, Bcl-2, CyclinD1, and CDK4, enhanced the expression of Bax and regulated the activity of the MAPK pathway. Collectively, our data suggest that the combination therapy of BBR and DDP markedly enhanced OS cell death.
Effect of Different Drying Methods on the Nutritional Value of Hibiscus sabdariffa Calyces as Revealed by NMR Metabolomics
Authors: Marak Sengnolotha , Shumilina Elena , Kaushik Nutan , Falch Eva , Dikiy Alexander
Published: March 2021

Red mature calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa were collected from 16 different locations in Meghalaya, India. Samples were processed using shade drying (SD) and tray drying (TD). NMR spectroscopy was used to assess the metabolic composition of the calyces. In this study, 18 polar metabolites were assigned using 1D and 2D NMR spectra, and 10 of them were quantified. Proximate analysis showed that the TD method is more efficient at reducing moisture and maintaining the ash content of the Hibiscus biomass. NMR metabolomics indicates that the metabolite composition significantly differs between SD and TD samples and is more stable in TD plant processing. The differences in post-harvest drying has a greater impact on the metabolite composition of Hibiscus than the plant location.
Crocetin Mitigates Irradiation Injury in an In Vitro Model of the Pubertal Testis: Focus on Biological Effects and Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Rossi Giulia , Placidi Martina , Castellini Chiara , Rea Francesco , D'Andrea Settimio , Alonso Gonzalo Luis , Gravina Giovanni Luca , Tatone Carla , Di Emidio Giovanna , D’Alessandro Anna Maria
Published: March 2021

Infertility is a potential side effect of radiotherapy and significantly affects the quality of life for adolescent cancer survivors. Very few studies have addressed in pubertal models the mechanistic events that could be targeted to provide protection from gonadotoxicity and data on potential radioprotective treatments in this peculiar period of life are elusive. In this study, we utilized an in vitro model of the mouse pubertal testis to investigate the efficacy of crocetin to counteract ionizing radiation (IR)-induced injury and potential underlying mechanisms. Present experiments provide evidence that exposure of testis fragments from pubertal mice to 2 Gy X-rays induced extensive structural and cellular damage associated with overexpression of PARP1, PCNA, SOD2 and HuR and decreased levels of SIRT1 and catalase. A twenty-four hr exposure to 50 μM crocetin pre- and post-IR significantly reduced testis injury and modulated the response to DNA damage and oxidative stress. Nevertheless, crocetin treatment did not counteract the radiation-induced changes in the expression of SIRT1, p62 and LC3II. These results increase the knowledge of mechanisms underlying radiation damage in pubertal testis and establish the use of crocetin as a fertoprotective agent against IR deleterious effects in pubertal period.
Opuntia dillenii (Ker Gawl.) Haw., Seeds Oil Antidiabetic Potential Using In Vivo, In Vitro, In Situ, and Ex Vivo Approaches to Reveal Its Underlying Mechanism of Action
Authors: Bouhrim Mohamed , Ouassou Hayat , Boutahiri Salima , Daoudi Nour Elhouda , Mechchate Hamza , Gressier Bernard , Eto Bruno , Imtara Hamada , A. Alotaibi Amal , Al-zharani Mohammed , Ziyyat Abderrahim , Mekhfi Hassane , Legssyer Abdelkhaleq , Aziz Mohammed , Bnouham Mohamed
Published: March 2021

Opuntia dillenii Ker Gawl. is one of the medicinal plants used for the prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM) in Morocco. This study aims to investigate the antihyperglycemic effect of Opuntia dillenii seed oil (ODSO), its mechanism of action, and any hypoglycemic risk and toxic effects. The antihyperglycemic effect was assessed using the OGTT test in normal and streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats. The mechanisms of action were explored by studying the effect of ODSO on the intestinal absorption of d-glucose using the intestinal in situ single-pass perfusion technique. An Ussing chamber was used to explore the effects of ODSO on intestinal sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1). Additionally, ODSO’s effect on carbohydrate degrading enzymes, pancreatic α-amylase, and intestinal α-glucosidase was evaluated in vitro and in vivo using STZ-diabetic rats. The acute toxicity test on mice was performed, along with a single-dose hypoglycemic effect test. The results showed that ODSO significantly attenuated the postprandial hyperglycemia in normal and STZ-diabetic rats. Indeed, ODSO significantly decreased the intestinal d-glucose absorption in situ. The ex vivo test (Ussing chamber) showed that the ODSO significantly blocks the SGLT1 (IC50 = 60.24 µg/mL). Moreover, ODSO indu\ced a significant inhibition of intestinal α-glucosidase (IC50 = 278 ± 0.01 µg/mL) and pancreatic α-amylase (IC50 = 0.81 ± 0.09 mg/mL) in vitro. A significant decrease of postprandial hyperglycemia was observed in sucrose/starch-loaded normal and STZ-diabetic ODSO-treated rats. On the other hand, ODSO had no risk of hypoglycemia on the basal glucose levels in normal rats. Therefore, no toxic effect was observed in ODSO-treated mice up to 7 mL/kg. The results of this study suggest that ODSO could be suitable as an antidiabetic functional food.
Is PF-00835231 a Pan-SARS-CoV-2 Mpro Inhibitor? A Comparative Study
Authors: Baig Mohammad Hassan , Sharma Tanuj , Ahmad Irfan , Abohashrh Mohammed , Alam Mohammad Mahtab , Dong Jae-June
Published: March 2021

The COVID-19 outbreak continues to spread worldwide at a rapid rate. Currently, the absence of any effective antiviral treatment is the major concern for the global population. The reports of the occurrence of various point mutations within the important therapeutic target protein of SARS-CoV-2 has elevated the problem. The SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) is a major therapeutic target for new antiviral designs. In this study, the efficacy of PF-00835231 was investigated (a Mpro inhibitor under clinical trials) against the Mpro and their reported mutants. Various in silico approaches were used to investigate and compare the efficacy of PF-00835231 and five drugs previously documented to inhibit the Mpro. Our study shows that PF-00835231 is not only effective against the wild type but demonstrates a high affinity against the studied mutants as well.
Raman Enhancement of Nanoparticle Dimers Self-Assembled Using DNA Origami Nanotriangles
Authors: Kogikoski Sergio , Tapio Kosti , von Zander Robert Edler , Saalfrank Peter , Bald Ilko
Published: March 2021

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering is a powerful approach to detect molecules at very low concentrations, even up to the single-molecule level. One important aspect of the materials used in such a technique is how much the signal is intensified, quantified by the enhancement factor (EF). Herein we obtained the EFs for gold nanoparticle dimers of 60 and 80 nm diameter, respectively, self-assembled using DNA origami nanotriangles. Cy5 and TAMRA were used as surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) probes, which enable the observation of individual nanoparticles and dimers. EF distributions are determined at four distinct wavelengths based on the measurements of around 1000 individual dimer structures. The obtained results show that the EFs for the dimeric assemblies follow a log-normal distribution and are in the range of 106 at 633 nm and that the contribution of the molecular resonance effect to the EF is around 2, also showing that the plasmonic resonance is the main source of the observed signal. To support our studies, FDTD simulations of the nanoparticle’s electromagnetic field enhancement has been carried out, as well as calculations of the resonance Raman spectra of the dyes using DFT. We observe a very close agreement between the experimental EF distribution and the simulated values.
Solar Photooxygenations for the Manufacturing of Fine Chemicals—Technologies and Applications
Authors: Wau Jayson , Robertson Mark , Oelgemöller Michael
Published: March 2021

Photooxygenation reactions involving singlet oxygen (1O2) are utilized industrially as a mild and sustainable access to oxygenated products. Due to the usage of organic dyes as photosensitizers, these transformations can be successfully conducted using natural sunlight. Modern solar chemical reactors enable outdoor operations on the demonstration (multigram) to technical (multikilogram) scales and have subsequently been employed for the manufacturing of fine chemicals such as fragrances or biologically active compounds. This review will highlight examples of solar photooxygenations for the manufacturing of industrially relevant target compounds and will discuss current challenges and opportunities of this sustainable methodology.
Risperidone/Randomly Methylated β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex—Compatibility Study with Pharmaceutical Excipients
Authors: Sbârcea Laura , Tănase Ionuț-Mihai , Ledeți Adriana , Cîrcioban Denisa , Vlase Gabriela , Barvinschi Paul , Miclău Marinela , Văruţ Renata-Maria , Suciu Oana , Ledeți Ionuț
Published: March 2021

Risperidone (RSP) is an atypical antipsychotic drug used in treating schizophrenia, behavioral, and psychological symptoms of dementia and irritability associated with autism. The drug substance is practically insoluble in water and exhibits high lipophilicity. It also presents incompatibilities with pharmaceutical excipients such as magnesium stearate, lactose, and cellulose microcrystalline. RSP encapsulation by randomly methylated β-cyclodextrin (RM-β-CD) was performed in order to enhance drug solubility and stability and improve its biopharmaceutical profile. The inclusion complex formation was evaluated using thermal methods, powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD), universal-attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (UATR-FTIR), UV spectroscopy, and saturation solubility studies. The 1:1 stoichiometry ratio and the apparent stability constant of the inclusion complex were determined by means of the phase solubility method. The compatibility between the supramolecular adduct and pharmaceutical excipients starch, anhydrous lactose, magnesium stearate, and cellulose microcrystalline was studied employing thermoanalytical tools (TG-thermogravimetry/DTG-derivative thermogravimetry/HF-heat flow) and spectroscopic techniques (UATR-FTIR, PXRD). The compatibility study reveals that there are no interactions between the supramolecular adduct with starch, magnesium stearate, and cellulose microcrystalline, while incompatibility with anhydrous lactose is observed even under ambient conditions. The supramolecular adduct of RSP with RM-β-CD represents a valuable candidate for further research in developing new formulations with enhanced bioavailability and stability, and the results of this study allow a pertinent selection of three excipients that can be incorporated in solid dosage forms.
Ethanol as a Probe for the Mechanism of Bubble Nucleation in the Diet Coke and Mentos Experiment
Authors: Kuntzleman Thomas S. , Kuntzleman Jacob T.
Published: March 2021

The Diet Coke and Mentos experiment involves dropping Mentos candies into carbonated beverages to produce a fountain. This simple experiment has enjoyed popularity with science teachers and the general public. Studies of the physicochemical processes involved in the generation of the fountain have been largely informed by the physics of bubble nucleation. Herein, we probe the effect of ethanol addition on the Diet Coke and Mentos experiment to explore the impact that beverage surface tension and viscosity have on the heights of fountains achieved. Our results indicate that current descriptions of the effects of surface tension and viscosity are not completely understood. We also extend and apply a previously reported, simplified version of Brunauer–Emmett–Teller theory to investigate kinetic and mechanistic aspects of bubble nucleation on the surface of Mentos candies in carbonated beverages. A combination of this new theory and experiment allows for the estimation that the nucleation sites on the Mentos candy that catalyze degassing are 1–3 μm in size, and that between 50,000 and 300,000 of these sites actively nucleate bubbles on a single Mentos candy. While the methods employed are not highly sophisticated, they have potential to stimulate fresh investigations and insights into bubble nucleation in carbonated beverages.
Synthesis of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles from Rumex roseus Plant Extract and Their Application in Electrochemical Sensors
Authors: Chelly Meryam , Chelly Sabrine , Zribi Rayhane , Bouaziz-Ketata Hanen , Gdoura Radhouane , Lavanya Nehru , Veerapandi Ganesan , Sekar Chinnathambi , Neri Giovanni
Published: March 2021

The room-temperature synthesis of silver (AgNPs) and gold (AuNPs) nanoparticles from aqueous solution of AgNO3 and HAuCl4 respectively, using Rumex roseus (RR) plant extract as a reducing agent, is reported here for the first time. The nanoparticles obtained were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The formation of nanoparticles with spherical-shaped morphology was verified by TEM and confirmed by UV-Vis spectroscopy through the analysis of Ag and Au plasmon resonance peak and DLS measurements. New electrochemical sensors have been developed by employing the synthesized Ag and Au nanoparticles as modifiers of glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE), respectively. The AgNPs-modified GCE was investigated for the electrochemical determination of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Further enhancement of electrochemical performances was obtained using a nanocomposite made of AgNPs and reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-modified GCE. The AuNPs-SPCE sensor was instead tested in the electrochemical sensing of riboflavin (RF). To our knowledge, this is the first paper reporting Rumex roseus plant extract as a source for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles and their use for developing simple, sensitive and reliable electrochemical sensors for H2O2 and RF.
Comparative Study of Gold and Carbon Nanoparticles in Nucleic Acid Lateral Flow Assay
Authors: Porras Juan Carlos , Bernuz Mireia , Marfa Jennifer , Pallares-Rusiñol Arnau , Martí Mercè , Pividori María Isabel
Published: March 2021

A lateral flow assay (LFA) is a paper-based, point-of-need test designed to detect a specific analyte in complex samples in low-resource settings. Although LFA has been successfully used in different applications, its use is still limited when high sensitivity is required, especially in the diagnosis of an early-stage condition. The limit of detection (LOD) is clearly related to the signal-generating system used to achieve the visual readout, in many cases involving nanoparticles coupled to a biomolecule, which, when combined, provides sensitivity and specificity, respectively. While colloidal gold is currently the most-used label, other detection systems are being developed. Carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) demonstrate outstanding features to improve the sensitivity of this technology by producing an increased contrast in the paper background. Based on the necessity of sensitivity improvement, the aim of this work is a comparative study, in terms of analytical performance, between commercial streptavidin gold nanoparticles (streptAv-AuNPs) and avidin carbon nanoparticles (Av-CNPs) in a nucleic acid lateral flow assay. The visual LOD of the method was calculated by serial dilution of the DNA template, ranging from 0.0 to 7 pg μL−1/1.5 × 104 CFU mL−1). The LFA achieved visual detection of as low as 2.2 × 10−2 pg μL−1 using Av-CNPs and 8.4 × 10−2 pg μL−1 using streptAv-AuNPs. These LODs could be obtained without the assistance of any instrumentation. The results demonstrate that CNPs showed an increased sensitivity, achieving the nanomolar range even by visual inspection. Furthermore, CNPs are the cheapest labels, and the suspensions are very stable and easy to modify.
Current Nanocarrier Strategies Improve Vitamin B12 Pharmacokinetics, Ameliorate Patients’ Lives, and Reduce Costs
Authors: Fidaleo Marco , Tacconi Stefano , Sbarigia Carolina , Passeri Daniele , Rossi Marco , Tata Ada Maria , Dini Luciana
Published: March 2021

Vitamin B12 (VitB12) is a naturally occurring compound produced by microorganisms and an essential nutrient for humans. Several papers highlight the role of VitB12 deficiency in bone and heart health, depression, memory performance, fertility, embryo development, and cancer, while VitB12 treatment is crucial for survival in inborn errors of VitB12 metabolism. VitB12 is administrated through intramuscular injection, thus impacting the patients’ lifestyle, although it is known that oral administration may meet the specific requirement even in the case of malabsorption. Furthermore, the high-dose injection of VitB12 does not ensure a constant dosage, while the oral route allows only 1.2% of the vitamin to be absorbed in human beings. Nanocarriers are promising nanotechnology that can enable therapies to be improved, reducing side effects. Today, nanocarrier strategies applied at VitB12 delivery are at the initial phase and aim to simplify administration, reduce costs, improve pharmacokinetics, and ameliorate the quality of patients’ lives. The safety of nanotechnologies is still under investigation and few treatments involving nanocarriers have been approved, so far. Here, we highlight the role of VitB12 in human metabolism and diseases, and the issues linked to its molecule properties, and discuss how nanocarriers can improve the therapy and supplementation of the vitamin and reduce possible side effects and limits.
Nanoplatforms for Targeted Stimuli-Responsive Drug Delivery: A Review of Platform Materials and Stimuli-Responsive Release and Targeting Mechanisms
Authors: Sun Yuzhe , Davis Edward
Published: March 2021

To achieve the promise of stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems for the treatment of cancer, they should (1) avoid premature clearance; (2) accumulate in tumors and undergo endocytosis by cancer cells; and (3) exhibit appropriate stimuli-responsive release of the payload. It is challenging to address all of these requirements simultaneously. However, the numerous proof-of-concept studies addressing one or more of these requirements reported every year have dramatically expanded the toolbox available for the design of drug delivery systems. This review highlights recent advances in the targeting and stimuli-responsiveness of drug delivery systems. It begins with a discussion of nanocarrier types and an overview of the factors influencing nanocarrier biodistribution. On-demand release strategies and their application to each type of nanocarrier are reviewed, including both endogenous and exogenous stimuli. Recent developments in stimuli-responsive targeting strategies are also discussed. The remaining challenges and prospective solutions in the field are discussed throughout the review, which is intended to assist researchers in overcoming interdisciplinary knowledge barriers and increase the speed of development. This review presents a nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems toolbox that enables the application of techniques across platforms and inspires researchers with interdisciplinary information to boost the development of multifunctional therapeutic nanoplatforms for cancer therapy.
Nutrition in Chronic Kidney Disease—The Role of Proteins and Specific Diets
Authors: Apetrii Mugurel , Timofte Daniel , Voroneanu Luminita , Covic Adrian
Published: March 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health burden, needing comprehensive management for preventing and delaying the progression to advanced CKD. The role of nutritional therapy as a strategy to slow CKD progression and uremia has been recommended for more than a century. Although a consistent body of evidence suggest a benefit of protein restriction therapy, patients’ adherence and compliance have to be considered when prescribing nutritional therapy in advanced CKD patients. Therefore, these prescriptions need to be individualized since some patients may prefer to enjoy their food without restriction, despite knowing the potential importance of dietary therapy in reducing uremic manifestations, maintaining protein-energy status.
Fortifying Butterfat with Soybean Oil Attenuates the Onset of Diet-Induced Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis and Glucose Intolerance
Authors: Sánchez Victor , Brandt Annette , Jin Cheng Jun , Rajcic Dragana , Engstler Anna Janina , Jung Finn , Nier Anika , Baumann Anja , Bergheim Ina
Published: March 2021

The addition of plant oils such as soybean oil (S) to a diet rich in saturated fatty acids is discussed as a possible route to prevent or diminish the development of metabolic disease. Here, we assessed whether a butterfat-rich diet fortified with S affects the development of early non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and glucose intolerance. Female C57BL/6J mice were fed a standard-control diet (C); a fat-, fructose-, and cholesterol-rich diet (FFC, 25E% butterfat, 50% (wt./wt.) fructose, 0.16% (wt./wt.) cholesterol); or FFC supplemented with S (FFC + S, 21E% butterfat + 4E% S) for 13 weeks. Indicators of liver damage, inflammation, intestinal barrier function, and glucose metabolism were measured. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged J774A.1 cells were incubated with linolenic and linoleic acids (ratio 1:7.1, equivalent to S). The development of early NASH and glucose intolerance was significantly attenuated in FFC + S–fed mice compared to FFC-fed mice associated with lower hepatic toll-like receptor-4 mRNA expression, while markers of intestinal barrier function were significantly higher than in C-fed mice. Linolenic and linoleic acid significantly attenuated LPS-induced formation of reactive nitrogen species and interleukin-1 beta mRNA expression in J774A.1 cells. Our results indicate that fortifying butterfat with S may attenuate the development of NASH and glucose intolerance in mice.
Body Composition Changes in Gastric Cancer Patients during Preoperative FLOT Therapy: Preliminary Results of an Italian Cohort Study
Authors: Rinninella Emanuele , Strippoli Antonia , Cintoni Marco , Raoul Pauline , Vivolo Raffaella , Di Salvatore Mariantonietta , Genco Enza , Manfredi Riccardo , Bria Emilio , Tortora Giampaolo , Gasbarrini Antonio , Pozzo Carmelo , Mele Maria
Published: March 2021

Background: The impact of the new chemotherapy, fluorouracil plus leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and docetaxel (FLOT) on body composition in gastric cancer (GC) patients remains unknown. We assessed body composition changes of GC patients receiving the FLOT regimen and their impact on treatment outcomes. Methods: Preoperative pre- and post-FLOT computed tomography (CT) scans of advanced GC patients were studied. Lumbar skeletal muscle index (SMI) and adipose indices were calculated before and after FLOT. Results: A total of 26 patients were identified between April 2019 and January 2020. Nineteen patients were sarcopenic at diagnosis. The mean BMI decreased (from 24.4 ± 3.7 to 22.6 ± 3.1; p < 0.0001) as well as the SMI (from 48.74 ± 9.76 to 46.52 ± 9.98; p = 0.009) and visceral adipose index (VAI) (from 49.04 ± 31.06 to 41.99 ± 23.91; p = 0.004) during preoperative FLOT therapy. BMI, SMI, and VAI variations were not associated with toxicity, Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST), response, delay and completion of perioperative FLOT chemotherapy, and the execution of gastrectomy; a decrease of SMI ≥ 5% was associated with a higher Mandard tumor regression grade (p = 0.01). Conclusions: Almost three-quarters (73.1%) of GC patients were sarcopenic at diagnosis. Preoperative FLOT was associated with a further reduction in SMI, BMI, and VAI. These changes were not associated with short-term outcomes.
Eating Habits and Lifestyles during the Initial Stage of the COVID-19 Lockdown in China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yang Guo-yi , Lin Xin-lei , Fang Ai-ping , Zhu Hui-lian
Published: March 2021

Due to the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the Chinese government implemented strict lockdown measures to control the spread of infection. The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on eating habits and lifestyles in the general population is unclear. This cross-sectional study was conducted via an online survey to obtain an overview of the food access, food intake, and physical activity of Chinese residents during the initial stage of the COVID-19 lockdown, and to investigate the association between staying at home/working from home and changes in eating habits and lifestyles. A total of 2702 participants (70.7% women) were included. Most of the participants maintained their habitual diet, while 38.2% increased their snack intake, 54.3% reported reduced physical activity, and 45.5% had increased sleep duration. Most people (70.1%) reported no change in body weight, while 25.0% reported an increase. Always staying at home/working from home was associated with an increase in animal product, vegetable, fruit, mushroom, nut, water, and snack intake, as well as sleep duration and frequency of skipping breakfast (odds ratio (OR) 1.54, 1.62, 1.58, 1.53, 1.57, 1.52, 1.77, 2.29, and 1.76 respectively). Suggestions should be made to encourage people to reduce their snack intake, maintain the daily consumption of breakfast, and increase physical activity during future lockdown periods.
Macronutrient Quality and All-Cause Mortality in the SUN Cohort
Authors: Santiago Susana , Zazpe Itziar , Fernandez-Lazaro Cesar I. , de la O Víctor , Bes-Rastrollo Maira , Martínez-González Miguel Ángel
Published: March 2021

No previous study has assessed the relationship between overall macronutrient quality and all-cause mortality. We aimed to prospectively examine the association between a multidimensional macronutrient quality index (MQI) and all-cause mortality in the SUN (Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra) (University of Navarra Follow-Up) study, a Mediterranean cohort of middle-aged adults. Dietary intake information was obtained from a validated 136-item semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire. We calculated the MQI (categorized in quartiles) based on three quality indexes: the carbohydrate quality index (CQI), the fat quality index (FQI), and the healthy plate protein source quality index (HPPQI). Among 19,083 participants (mean age 38.4, 59.9% female), 440 deaths from all causes were observed during a median follow-up of 12.2 years (IQR, 8.3–14.9). No significant association was found between the MQI and mortality risk with multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for the highest vs. the lowest quartile of 0.79 (95% CI, 0.59–1.06; Ptrend = 0.199). The CQI was the only component of the MQI associated with mortality showing a significant inverse relationship, with HR between extreme quartiles of 0.64 (95% CI, 0.45–0.90; Ptrend = 0.021). In this Mediterranean cohort, a new and multidimensional MQI defined a priori was not associated with all-cause mortality. Among its three sub-indexes, only the CQI showed a significant inverse relationship with the risk of all-cause mortality.