bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced Proteasome Activity and Enhanced Autophagy in Blood Cells of Psoriatic Patients
Authors: Karabowicz Piotr , Wroński Adam , Ostrowska Halina , Waeg Georg , Zarkovic Neven , Skrzydlewska Elżbieta
Published: October 2020

Psoriasis is a skin disease that is accompanied by oxidative stress resulting in modification of cell components, including proteins. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between the intensity of oxidative stress and the expression and activity of the proteasomal system as well as autophagy, responsible for the degradation of oxidatively modified proteins in the blood cells of patients with psoriasis. Our results showed that the caspase-like, trypsin-like, and chymotrypsin-like activity of the 20S proteasome in lymphocytes, erythrocytes, and granulocytes was lower, while the expression of constitutive proteasome and immunoproteasome subunits in lymphocytes was increased cells of psoriatic patients compared to healthy subjects. Conversely, the expression of constitutive subunits in erythrocytes, and both constitutive and immunoproteasomal subunits in granulocytes were reduced. However, a significant increase in the autophagy flux (assessed using LC3BII/LC3BI ratio) independent of the AKT pathway was observed. The levels of 4-HNE, 4-HNE-protein adducts, and proteins carbonyl groups were significantly higher in the blood cells of psoriatic patients. The decreased activity of the 20S proteasome together with the increased autophagy and the significantly increased level of proteins carbonyl groups and 4-HNE-protein adducts indicate a proteostatic imbalance in the blood cells of patients with psoriasis.
Post-Transcriptional Expression Control in Platelet Biogenesis and Function
Authors: Neu Carolin T. , Gutschner Tony , Haemmerle Monika
Published: October 2020

Platelets are highly abundant cell fragments of the peripheral blood that originate from megakaryocytes. Beside their well-known role in wound healing and hemostasis, they are emerging mediators of the immune response and implicated in a variety of pathophysiological conditions including cancer. Despite their anucleate nature, they harbor a diverse set of RNAs, which are subject to an active sorting mechanism from megakaryocytes into proplatelets and affect platelet biogenesis and function. However, sorting mechanisms are poorly understood, but RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) have been suggested to play a crucial role. Moreover, RBPs may regulate RNA translation and decay following platelet activation. In concert with other regulators, including microRNAs, long non-coding and circular RNAs, RBPs control multiple steps of the platelet life cycle. In this review, we will highlight the different RNA species within platelets and their impact on megakaryopoiesis, platelet biogenesis and platelet function. Additionally, we will focus on the currently known concepts of post-transcriptional control mechanisms important for RNA fate within platelets with a special emphasis on RBPs.
Assessing and Overcoming Resistance Phenomena against a Genetically Modified Vaccinia Virus in Selected Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Berchtold Susanne , Beil Julia , Raff Christian , Smirnow Irina , Schell Martina , D’Alvise Janina , Gross Silvia , Lauer Ulrich M.
Published: October 2020

Genetically modified vaccinia viruses (VACVs) have been shown to possess profound oncolytic capabilities. However, tumor cell resistance to VACVs may endanger broad clinical success. Using cell mass assays, viral replication studies, and fluorescence microscopy, we investigated primary resistance phenomena of cell lines of the NCI-60 tumor cell panel to GLV-1h94, a derivative of the Lister strain of VACV, which encodes the enzyme super cytosine deaminase (SCD) that converts the prodrug 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC) into the chemotherapeutic compound 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). After treatment with GLV-1h94 alone, only half of the cell lines were defined as highly susceptible to GLV-1h94-induced oncolysis. When adding 5-FC, 85% of the cell lines became highly susceptible to combinatorial treatment; none of the tested tumor cell lines exhibited a “high-grade resistance” pattern. Detailed investigation of the SCD prodrug system suggested that the cytotoxic effect of converted 5-FU is directed either against the cells or against the virus particles, depending on the balance between cell line-specific susceptibility to GLV-1h94-induced oncolysis and 5-FU sensitivity. The data provided by this work underline that cellular resistance against VACV-based virotherapy can be overcome by virus-encoded prodrug systems. Phase I/II clinical trials are recommended to further elucidate the enormous potential of this combination therapy.
CC Chemokines in a Tumor: A Review of Pro-Cancer and Anti-Cancer Properties of Receptors CCR5, CCR6, CCR7, CCR8, CCR9, and CCR10 Ligands
Authors: Korbecki Jan , Grochans Szymon , Gutowska Izabela , Barczak Katarzyna , Baranowska-Bosiacka Irena
Published: October 2020

CC chemokines (or β-chemokines) are 28 chemotactic cytokines with an N-terminal CC domain that play an important role in immune system cells, such as CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes, dendritic cells, eosinophils, macrophages, monocytes, and NK cells, as well in neoplasia. In this review, we discuss human CC motif chemokine ligands: CCL1, CCL3, CCL4, CCL5, CCL18, CCL19, CCL20, CCL21, CCL25, CCL27, and CCL28 (CC motif chemokine receptor CCR5, CCR6, CCR7, CCR8, CCR9, and CCR10 ligands). We present their functioning in human physiology and in neoplasia, including their role in the proliferation, apoptosis resistance, drug resistance, migration, and invasion of cancer cells. We discuss the significance of chemokine receptors in organ-specific metastasis, as well as the influence of each chemokine on the recruitment of various cells to the tumor niche, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), Kupffer cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC), osteoclasts, tumor-associated macrophages (TAM), tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), and regulatory T cells (Treg). Finally, we show how the effect of the chemokines on vascular endothelial cells and lymphatic endothelial cells leads to angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.
Relative Centrifugal Force (RCF; G-Force) Affects the Distribution of TGF-β in PRF Membranes Produced Using Horizontal Centrifugation
Authors: Kargarpour Zahra , Nasirzade Jila , Panahipour Layla , Miron Richard J. , Gruber Reinhard
Published: October 2020

Solid platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is produced with centrifugation tubes designed to accelerate clotting. Thus, activated platelets may accumulate within the fibrin-rich extracellular matrix even before centrifugation is initiated. It can thus be assumed that platelets and their growth factors such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) are trapped within PRF independent of their relative centrifugal force (RCF), the gravitation or g-force. To test this assumption, we prepared PRF membranes with tubes where clotting is activated by a silicone-coated interior. Tubes underwent 210 g, 650 g and 1500 g for 12 min in a horizontal centrifuge. The respective PRF membranes, either in total or separated into a platelet-poor plasma and buffy coat fraction, were subjected to repeated freeze-thawing to prepare lysates. Gingival fibroblasts were exposed to the PRF lysates to provoke the expression of TGF-β target genes. We show here that the expression of interleukin 11 (IL11) and NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), and Smad2/3 signaling were similarly activated by all lysates when normalized to the size of the PRF membranes. Notably, platelet-poor plasma had significantly less TGF-β activity than the buffy coat fraction at both high-speed protocols. In contrast to our original assumption, the TGF-β activity in PRF lysates produced using horizontal centrifugation follows a gradient with increasing concentration from the platelet-poor plasma towards the buffy coat layer.
Receptor-Like Protein Kinases Function Upstream of MAPKs in Regulating Plant Development
Authors: Wang Zhe , Gou Xiaoping
Published: October 2020

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are a group of protein kinase broadly involved in various signal pathways in eukaryotes. In plants, MAPK cascades regulate growth, development, stress responses and immunity by perceiving signals from the upstream regulators and transmitting the phosphorylation signals to the downstream signaling components. To reveal the interactions between MAPK cascades and their upstream regulators is important for understanding the functional mechanisms of MAPKs in the life span of higher plants. Typical receptor-like protein kinases (RLKs) are plasma membrane-located to perceive endogenous or exogenous signal molecules in regulating plant growth, development and immunity. MAPK cascades bridge the extracellular signals and intracellular transcription factors in many RLK-mediated signaling pathways. This review focuses on the current findings that RLKs regulate plant development through MAPK cascades and discusses questions that are worth investigating in the near future.
Effect of Fibers on Durability of Concrete: A Practical Review
Authors: Paul Suvash , van Zijl Gideon , Šavija Branko
Published: October 2020

This article reviews the literature related to the performance of fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) in the context of the durability of concrete infrastructures. The durability of a concrete infrastructure is defined by its ability to sustain reliable levels of serviceability and structural integrity in environmental exposure which may be harsh without any major need for repair intervention throughout the design service life. Conventional concrete has relatively low tensile capacity and ductility, and thus is susceptible to cracking. Cracks are considered to be pathways for gases, liquids, and deleterious solutes entering the concrete, which lead to the early onset of deterioration processes in the concrete or reinforcing steel. Chloride aqueous solution may reach the embedded steel quickly after cracked regions are exposed to de-icing salt or spray in coastal regions, which de-passivates the protective film, whereby corrosion initiation occurs decades earlier than when chlorides would have to gradually ingress uncracked concrete covering the steel in the absence of cracks. Appropriate inclusion of steel or non-metallic fibers has been proven to increase both the tensile capacity and ductility of FRC. Many researchers have investigated durability enhancement by use of FRC. This paper reviews substantial evidence that the improved tensile characteristics of FRC used to construct infrastructure, improve its durability through mainly the fiber bridging and control of cracks. The evidence is based on both reported laboratory investigations under controlled conditions and the monitored performance of actual infrastructure constructed of FRC. The paper aims to help design engineers towards considering the use of FRC in real-life concrete infrastructures appropriately and more confidently.
Selective Laser Melting of Aluminum and Its Alloys
Authors: Wang Zhi , Ummethala Raghunandan , Singh Neera , Tang Shengyang , Suryanarayana Challapalli , Eckert Jürgen , Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss
Published: October 2020

The laser-based powder bed fusion (LBPF) process or commonly known as selective laser melting (SLM) has made significant progress since its inception. Initially, conventional materials like 316L, Ti6Al4V, and IN-718 were fabricated using the SLM process. However, it was inevitable to explore the possible fabrication of the second most popular structural material after Fe-based alloys/steel, the Al-based alloys by SLM. Al-based alloys exhibit some inherent difficulties due to the following factors: the presence of surface oxide layer, solidification cracking during melt cooling, high reflectivity from the surface, high thermal conductivity of the metal, poor flowability of the powder, low melting temperature, etc. Researchers have overcome these difficulties to successfully fabricate the different Al-based alloys by SLM. However, there exists no review dealing with the fabrication of different Al-based alloys by SLM, their fabrication issues, microstructure, and their correlation with properties in detail. Hence, the present review attempts to introduce the SLM process followed by a detailed discussion about the processing parameters that form the core of the alloy development process. This is followed by the current research status on the processing of Al-based alloys and microstructure evaluation (including defects, internal stresses, etc.), which are dealt with on the basis of individual Al-based series. The mechanical properties of these alloys are discussed in detail followed by the other important properties like tribological properties, fatigue properties, etc. Lastly, an outlook is given at the end of this review.
Fatigue-Induced Evolution of AISI 310S Steel Microstructure after Electron Beam Treatment
Authors: Konovalov Sergey , Ivanov Yurii , Gromov Victor , Panchenko Irina
Published: October 2020

Research was carried out to explore the effect of pulsed electron beam irradiation on the behavior of structure and phase state in AISI 310S steel exposed to high-cycle fatigue. A 2.2 times increase in the fatigue life of samples irradiated by electron beams was revealed. The outcomes of scanning and transmission electron microscopic studies suggest the most probable reason for the fracture of steel samples irradiated by a high-intensity electron beam to be microcraters originating on a treated surface and acting as stress risers initiating the propagation of microcracks. The irradiation with a pulsed electron beam causes extremely fast melting of the surface. As a result of the subsequent rapid crystallization, a polycrystalline structure nearly twice as small as an average grain in the untreated steel is formed. Since a surface layer crystallizes rapidly, crystallization cells ranging from 120 to 170 nm develop in the volume of grains. The fatigue testing is shown to be associated with a martensite transformation γ ⇒ ε in the surface layer. One option to intensify a fatigue life increase of the steel in focus is supposed to be the neutralization of crater-forming on a surface treated by electron beams.
Response of Palladium and Carbon Nanotube Composite Films to Hydrogen Gas and Behavior of Conductive Carriers
Authors: Zou Muxuan , Aono Yoshinori , Inoue Shuhei , Matsumura Yukihiko
Published: October 2020

To develop a high-performance hydrogen gas sensor, we fabricated a composite film made of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and palladium nanoparticles. Carbon nanotubes were spin-coated onto a glass substrate, and subsequently, palladium nanoparticles were sputtered onto this film. The response to hydrogen gas was measured during two seasons (summer and winter) using a vacuum chamber by introducing a hydrogen/argon gas mixture. There was a clear difference in the sensor response despite the temperature difference between summer and winter. In addition, since a clean chamber was used, fewer water molecules acted as a dopant, and the behavior of the CNT changed from p-type to n-type because of the dissociative adsorption of hydrogen. This phenomenon was confirmed as the Seebeck effect. Finally, the work functions of Pd, PdHx, and CNT were calculated by first-principle calculations. As predicted by previous studies, a decrease in work function due to hydrogen adsorption was confirmed; however, the electron transfer to CNT was not appropriate from the perspective of charge neutrality and was found to be localized at the Pd/CNT interface. It seems that the Seebeck effect causes the concentration of conductive carriers to change.
Fast Detection of Heat Accumulation in Powder Bed Fusion Using Computationally Efficient Thermal Models
Authors: Ranjan Rajit , Ayas Can , Langelaar Matthijs , van Keulen Fred
Published: October 2020

The powder bed fusion (PBF) process is a type of Additive Manufacturing (AM) technique which enables fabrication of highly complex geometries with unprecedented design freedom. However, PBF still suffers from manufacturing constraints which, if overlooked, can cause various types of defects in the final part. One such constraint is the local accumulation of heat which leads to surface defects such as melt ball and dross formation. Moreover, slow cooling rates due to local heat accumulation can adversely affect resulting microstructures. In this paper, first a layer-by-layer PBF thermal process model, well established in the literature, is used to predict zones of local heat accumulation in a given part geometry. However, due to the transient nature of the analysis and the continuously growing domain size, the associated computational cost is high which prohibits part-scale applications. Therefore, to reduce the overall computational burden, various simplifications and their associated effects on the accuracy of detecting overheating are analyzed. In this context, three novel physics-based simplifications are introduced motivated by the analytical solution of the one-dimensional heat equation. It is shown that these novel simplifications provide unprecedented computational benefits while still allowing correct prediction of the zones of heat accumulation. The most far-reaching simplification uses the steady-state thermal response of the part for predicting its heat accumulation behavior with a speedup of 600 times as compared to a conventional analysis. The proposed simplified thermal models are capable of fast detection of problematic part features. This allows for quick design evaluations and opens up the possibility of integrating simplified models with design optimization algorithms.
High-Temperature Mechanical Behaviors of SiO2-Based Ceramic Core for Directional Solidification of Turbine Blades
Authors: Zhong Jiangwei , Xu Qingyan
Published: October 2020

The high-temperature mechanical behaviors of SiO2-based ceramic cores for the directional solidification of turbine hollow blades were investigated. Isothermal uniaxial compression tests of ceramic core samples were conducted on a Gleeble-1500D mechanical simulator with an innovative auxiliary thermal system. The stress–strain results and macro- and micro- structures of SiO2-based ceramic cores were investigated experimentally. The microstructures were characterized by the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Based on the experimental data, a nonlinear constitutive model for high temperature compressive damage was established. The statistical results of Weibull moduli show that the stability of hot deformation increases with the increase of temperature. The fracture type of the SiO2-based core samples is brittle fracture, but when the temperature exceeds 1400 °C, the mechanical behavior exhibits thermo-viscoelastic and viscoplastic property. Under high-temperature (>1400 °C) and stress conditions, the strength of the ceramic core is weakened owing to the viscous slip of SiO2, which is initially melted at the temperature of 1400 °C. The comparison results between the predictions of nonlinear model and experimental values indicate that the model is applicable.
Features of Structure and Properties of pHEMA-gr-PVP Block Copolymers, Obtained in the Presence of Fe2+
Authors: Grytsenko Oleksandr , Dulebova Ludmila , Suberlyak Oleh , Skorokhoda Volodymyr , Spišák Emil , Gajdoš Ivan
Published: October 2020

This paper presents the research results of the copolymer structure and properties of 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and their hydrogels, obtained by block polymerization in the presence of iron sulfate (II). By the methods of chemical analysis, IR spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric (TG) and Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA), the course of grafted copolymerization of HEMA on PVP with the formation of a cross-linked copolymer was confirmed. The results received by scanning electron microscopy showed that due to the copolymerization of HEMA with PVP, macroporous hydrogels with a pore size of 10–30 μm were obtained. The peculiarities of the structure formation of the obtained copolymers depending on the initial composition formulation were established and their structural parameters were investigated: PVP grafting efficiency, PVP content in copolymer, molecular weight of internodal fragment of polymer network, crosslinking degree, and crosslinking density. The interrelation of sorption–diffusion, physical–mechanical and thermophysical properties along with the structure of the obtained materials was proved. It was shown that with the increasing PVP content in the original composition, the efficiency of its grafting and crosslinking density of the polymer network decreased, but the surface hardness, heat resistance, sorption capacity of copolymers in the dry state, as well as ion permeability and elasticity in the swollen state increased, while their tensile strength deteriorated. It is proved that by changing the original composition formulation it is possible to change the structure and hence the properties of the copolymers in the desired direction.
Joining of the Laminated Electrical Steels in Motor Manufacturing: A Review
Authors: Xia Cunjuan , Wang Hongze , Wu Yi , Wang Haowei
Published: October 2020

In recent years, the motor has been increasingly used to replace the conventional gasoline engine for carbon emission reduction, and the high-performance motor is urgently required. The stator and rotor in a motor are made of hundreds of joined and laminated electrical steels. This paper covers the current research in joining the laminated electrical steels for the motor application, together with the critical assessment of our understanding. It includes the representative joining method, modeling of the joining process, microstructure of the weld zone, mechanical strength and magnetic properties. The gaps in the scientific understanding, and the research needs for the expansion of joining laminated electrical steels, are provided.
Review on the Biological Degradation of Polymers in Various Environments
Authors: Kliem Silvia , Kreutzbruck Marc , Bonten Christian
Published: October 2020

Biodegradable plastics can make an important contribution to the struggle against increasing environmental pollution through plastics. However, biodegradability is a material property that is influenced by many factors. This review provides an overview of the main environmental conditions in which biodegradation takes place and then presents the degradability of numerous polymers. Polylactide (PLA), which is already available on an industrial scale, and the polyhydroxyalkanoates polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and polyhydroxybutyrate-co-valerate (PHBV), which are among the few plastics that have been proven to degrade in seawater, will be discussed in detail, followed by a summary of the degradability of further petroleum-, cellulose-, starch-, protein- and CO2-based biopolymers and some naturally occurring polymers.
Controlling the Porosity and Biocidal Properties of the Chitosan-Hyaluronate Matrix Hydrogel Nanocomposites by the Addition of 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene
Authors: Rozmysłowska-Wojciechowska Anita , Karwowska Ewa , Gloc Michał , Woźniak Jarosław , Petrus Mateusz , Przybyszewski Bartłomiej , Wojciechowski Tomasz , Jastrzębska Agnieszka M.
Published: October 2020

A recent discovery of the unique biological properties of two-dimensional transition metal carbides (MXenes) resulted in intensive research on their application in various biotechnological areas, including polymeric nanocomposite systems. However, the true potential of MXene as an additive to bioactive natural porous composite structures has yet to be fully explored. Here, we report that the addition of 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene by reducing the porosity of the chitosan-hyaluronate matrix nanocomposite structures, stabilized by vitamin C, maintains their desired antibacterial properties. This was confirmed by micro computed tomography (micro-CT) visualization which enables insight into the porous structure of nanocomposites. It was also found that given large porosity of the nanocomposite a small amount of MXene (1–5 wt.%) was effective against gram-negative Escherichia coli, gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus sp. bacteria in a hydrogel system. Such an approach unequivocally advances the future design approaches of modern wound healing dressing materials with the addition of MXenes.
Study of Mechanical Properties of an Eco-Friendly Concrete Containing Recycled Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer and Recycled Aggregate
Authors: Xiong Chen , Lan Tianhao , Li Qiangsheng , Li Haodao , Long Wujian
Published: October 2020

This study investigates the feasibility of collaborative use of recycled carbon fiber reinforced polymer (RCFRP) fibers and recycled aggregate (RA) in concrete, which is called RCFRP fiber reinforced RA concrete (RFRAC). The mechanical properties of the composite were studied through experimental investigation, considering different RCFRP fiber contents (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% by volume) and different RA replacement rates (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% by volume). Specifically, ten different mixes were designed to explore the flowability and compressive and flexural strengths of the proposed composite. Experimental results indicated that the addition of RCFRP fibers and RA had a relatively small influence on the compressive strength of concrete (less than 5%). Moreover, the addition of RA slightly decreased the flexural strength of concrete, while the addition of RCFRP fibers could significantly improve the flexural performance. For example, the flexural strength of RA concrete with 1.5% RCFRP fiber addition increased by 32.7%. Considering the good flexural properties of the composite and its potential in reducing waste CFRP and construction solid waste, the proposed RFRAC is promising for use in civil concrete structures with high flexural performance requirements.
N-Docosahexaenoylethanolamine Attenuates Neuroinflammation and Improves Hippocampal Neurogenesis in Rats with Sciatic Nerve Chronic Constriction Injury
Authors: Tyrtyshnaia Anna A. , Egorova Evgenia L. , Starinets Anna A. , Ponomarenko Arina I. , Ermolenko Ekaterina V. , Manzhulo Igor V.
Published: October 2020

Chronic neuropathic pain is a condition that causes both sensory disturbances and a variety of functional disorders, indicating the involvement of various brain structures in pain pathogenesis. One of the factors underlying chronic neuropathic pain is neuroinflammation, which is accompanied by microglial activation and pro-inflammatory factor release. N-docosahexaenoylethanolamine (DHEA, synaptamide) is an endocannabinoid-like metabolite synthesized endogenously from docosahexaenoic acid. Synaptamide exhibits anti-inflammatory activity and improves neurite outgrowth, neurogenesis, and synaptogenesis within the hippocampus. This study aims to evaluate the effects of synaptamide obtained by the chemical modification of DHA, extracted from the Far Eastern raw material Berryteuthis magister on neuroinflammatory response and hippocampal neurogenesis changes during neuropathic pain. The study of microglial protein and cytokine concentrations was performed using immunohistochemistry and ELISA. The brain lipid analysis was performed using the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry technique. Behavioral experiments showed that synaptamide prevented neuropathic pain-associated sensory and behavioral changes, such as thermal allodynia, impaired locomotor activity, working and long-term memory, and increased anxiety. Synaptamide attenuated microglial activation, release of proinflammatory cytokines, and decrease in hippocampal neurogenesis. Lipid analysis revealed changes in the brain N-acylethanolamines composition and plasmalogen concentration after synaptamide administration. In conclusion, we show here that synaptamide may have potential for use in preventing or treating neuropathic cognitive pain and emotional effects.
Pomegranate Juice Extract Decreases Cisplatin Toxicity on Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Nasser Mohamad , Damaj Ziad , Hijazi Akram , Merah Othmane , Al-Khatib Batoul , Hijazi Nadine , Trabolsi Christine , Damaj Raghida , Nasser Mouhamad
Published: October 2020

Background: Lung cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide. Chemotherapy regimens, targeted against lung cancer, are considered an effective treatment; albeit with multiple fatal side effects. An alternative strategy, nowadays, is using natural products. Medicinal plants have been used, in combination with chemotherapy, to ameliorate side effects. This study aims to investigate the antitumor effect of pomegranate juice (Punica granatum) on human lung adenocarcinoma basal epithelial cells (A549), to check the effect, when combined with low dose cisplatin (CDDP), at different doses. We also have evaluated the potential protective effect of pomegranate on normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Methods: Phytochemical screening of the extract was done using standard classical tests. Total phenolic and sugar contents were determined using the Folin–Ciocalteu and anthrone reagents, respectively. The antioxidant activity of pomegranate was estimated by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. The viability of A549 cells and PBMC was evaluated using the neutral red assay. Results: Our results demonstrated that Punica granatum or pomegranate juice (with different concentrations: 150, 300, 600 µg/mL) contained high levels of flavonoids, alkaloids, tanins, lignins, terpenoids, and phenols. The DPPH method showed that pomegranate juice had a strong antioxidant scavenging activity. Neutral red showed that combining pomegranate juice with low dose CDDP (8 µg/mL) decreased the cell viability of A549 cells, by 64%, compared to treatment with CDDP or pomegranate alone. When added to low dose CDDP, pomegranate increased the viability of normal PBMC cells by 46%. Conclusions: These results demonstrated that pomegranate could potentiate the anticancer effect of low dose CDDP on human lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549 cells) and could as well decrease its toxicity on PBMC.
A New Approach for Obtaining the Compression Behavior of Anisotropic Sheet Metals Applicable to a Wide Range of Test Conditions
Authors: Ayllón Jorge , Miguel Valentín , Martínez-Martínez Alberto , Coello Juana , Naranjo Jesús Andrés
Published: October 2020

The consideration of anisotropic and asymmetric tension-compression behaviour in some materials has proved to be of great importance for the modelling of plastic behaviours that allow for accurate results in sheet metal forming analysis. However, obtaining this compression behaviour of a sheet metal in the principal plane directions is one of the most complex aspects from an experimental point of view. This complexity is notably increased when this behaviour needs to be analysed under high temperature conditions. This paper presents a compression test system with load application in the in-plane sheet directions which is characterised by a relative technical simplicity allowing its application under temperature conditions of up to 750 °C and different strain-rates. Due to the specific test conditions, namely the high temperature, it is not possible to use the common systems for measuring the strains involved and to obtain the stress-strain curve. Therefore, this paper proposes two methods for this purpose. The first is the performance of interrupted tests and measurement of the central cross sections. The second consists of inverse calibration using finite element simulations. The sensitivity of the proposed test methodology is validated through the characterisation, at room temperature, of the compression and tensile behaviour of six materials with different plastic deformation phenomena. In this way, the asymmetric tension-compression phenomena are accurately identified and high compression strains of around 0.3, higher than those existing in the literature, are investigated. A novel test methodology is thus established that is easily applicable for the mechanical characterisation of sheet metal at high temperature.
The Coffee–Acrylamide Apparent Paradox: An Example of Why the Health Impact of a Specific Compound in a Complex Mixture Should Not Be Evaluated in Isolation
Authors: Nehlig Astrid , Cunha Rodrigo
Published: October 2020

The health implications of acrylamide in food are a matter of concern based on toxicological studies in rodents, which showed that doses of acrylamide more than 100 times higher than those estimated to result from dietary exposure in humans are carcinogenic; however, the cancer types reported in rodents are species-specific, and whether these results can be extrapolated to humans is still in question. In fact, human epidemiological studies revealed a general lack of association between dietary acrylamide exposure and the incidence of different cancer types. Even occupational exposure to acrylamide, resulting in acrylamide exposure nearly 10 times higher than dietary exposure, did not increase tumor occurrence. Furthermore, the consumption of coffee, which is a main contributor of dietary acrylamide exposure, actually decreases the overall incidence of cancer in humans and afford global health benefits, increasing both lifespan and healthspan on ageing. This paradox clearly illustrates the risk of evaluating an individual molecule independently of its complete food matrix, which may have other components that completely override the effects of the considered molecule.
Vitamin C and the Lens: New Insights into Delaying the Onset of Cataract
Authors: Lim Julie C , Caballero Arredondo Mariana , Braakhuis Andrea J. , Donaldson Paul J.
Published: October 2020

Cataracts or clouding of the lens is the leading cause of blindness in the world. Age and diabetes are major risk factors, and with an increasing aging and diabetic population, the burden of cataracts will grow. Cataract surgery is an effective way to restore vision; however, alternatives to cataract surgery are required to reduce the looming cataract epidemic. Since it is well established that oxidative damage plays a major role in the etiology of cataracts, antioxidants have been promoted as therapies to delay and/or prevent cataracts. However, many antioxidant interventions including vitamin C have produced mixed results as anti-cataract therapies. Progress has been made towards our understanding of lens physiology and the mechanisms involved in the delivery and uptake of antioxidants to the lens which may guide future studies aimed at addressing some of the inconsistencies seen in previous animal and human studies. Of interest is the potential for vitamin C based supplements in delaying the onset of cataracts post vitrectomy which occurs in up to 80% of patients within two years. These targeted approaches are required to reduce the burden of cataract on hospitals and improve the quality of life of our aging and diabetic population.
Long Term Dietary Restriction of Advanced Glycation End-Products (AGEs) in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Is Feasible and Efficacious-Results from a Pilot RCT
Authors: Lotan Roni , Ganmore Ithamar , Shelly Shahar , Zacharia Moran , Uribarri Jaime , Beisswenger Paul , Cai Weijing , Troen Aron M. , Schnaider Beeri Michal
Published: October 2020

Introduction: High serum concentrations of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) in older adults and diabetics are associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment. The aim of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of long-term adherence to a dietary intervention designed to decrease intake and exposure to circulating AGEs among older adults with type 2 diabetes. Methods: Herein, 75 participants were randomized to either a standard of care (SOC) control arm or to an intervention arm receiving instruction on reducing dietary AGEs intake. The primary outcome was a change in serum AGEs at the end of the intervention. Secondary and exploratory outcomes included adherence to diet and its association with circulating AGEs. Cognitive function and brain imaging were also assessed but were out of the scope of this article (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02739971). Results: The intervention resulted in a significant change over time in several serum AGEs compared to the SOC guidelines. Very high adherence (above 80%) to the AGE-lowering diet was associated with a greater reduction in serum AGEs levels. There were no significant differences between the two arms in any other metabolic markers. Conclusions: A long-term dietary intervention to reduce circulating AGEs is feasible in older adults with type 2 diabetes, especially in those who are highly adherent to the AGE-lowering diet.
A Randomized Controlled Trial Testing the Effectiveness of Coping with Cancer in the Kitchen, a Nutrition Education Program for Cancer Survivors
Authors: Miller Melissa Farmer , Li Zhongyu , Habedank Melissa
Published: October 2020

Following a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruit, and beans may reduce cancer incidence and mortality. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Coping with Cancer in the Kitchen (CCK), an 8 week in-person program offering education, culinary demonstrations and food tasting, and psychosocial group support, compared to receiving CCK printed materials by mail on knowledge, confidence, and skills in implementing a plant-based diet. A total of 54 adult cancer survivors were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 26) and control groups (n = 27) with assessments at baseline, 9, and 15 weeks via self-administered survey. The response rate was 91% at 9 weeks and 58% at 15 weeks. The majority of our study participants were female breast cancer survivors (58%) who had overweight or obesity (65%). Compared with the control, there were significant (p < 0.05) increases in intervention participants’ knowledge about a plant-based diet at weeks 9 and 15, reductions in perceived barriers to eating more fruits and vegetables at week 9, and enhanced confidence and skills in preparing a plant-based diet at week 15. There was a significant reduction in processed meat intake but changes in other food groups and psychosocial measures were modest. Participation in CCK in person increased knowledge, skills, and confidence and reduced barriers to adopting a plant-based diet. Positive trends in intake of plant-based foods and quality of life warrant further investigation in larger-scale studies and diverse populations.
Understanding Development of Malnutrition in Hemodialysis Patients: A Narrative Review
Authors: Sahathevan Sharmela , Khor Ban-Hock , Ng Hi-Ming , Abdul Gafor Abdul Halim , Mat Daud Zulfitri Azuan , Mafra Denise , Karupaiah Tilakavati
Published: October 2020

Hemodialysis (HD) majorly represents the global treatment option for patients with chronic kidney disease stage 5, and, despite advances in dialysis technology, these patients face a high risk of morbidity and mortality from malnutrition. We aimed to provide a novel view that malnutrition susceptibility in the global HD community is either or both of iatrogenic and of non-iatrogenic origins. This categorization of malnutrition origin clearly describes the role of each factor in contributing to malnutrition. Low dialysis adequacy resulting in uremia and metabolic acidosis and dialysis membranes and techniques, which incur greater amino-acid losses, are identified modifiable iatrogenic factors of malnutrition. Dietary inadequacy as per suboptimal energy and protein intakes due to poor appetite status, low diet quality, high diet monotony index, and/or psychosocial and financial barriers are modifiable non-iatrogenic factors implicated in malnutrition in these patients. These factors should be included in a comprehensive nutritional assessment for malnutrition risk. Leveraging the point of origin of malnutrition in dialysis patients is crucial for healthcare practitioners to enable personalized patient care, as well as determine country-specific malnutrition treatment strategies.
Dietary Indole-3-Carbinol Alleviated Spleen Enlargement, Enhanced IgG Response in C3H/HeN Mice Infected with Citrobacter rodentium
Authors: Wu Yanbei , Wang Jing , He Qiang , Yu Liangli , Pham Quynhchi , Cheung Lumei , Zhang Zhi , Kim Young S. , Smith Allen D. , Wang Thomas T. Y.
Published: October 2020

Enteropathogenic and enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli are important enteric pathogens that induce hemorrhagic colitis or even fatal hemolytic uremic syndrome. Emerging evidence shows that some bio-actives derived from fruits and vegetables may serve as alternatives to antibiotics for overcoming multidrug resistant E. coli infections. In this study, the Citrobacter rodentium (Cr) infection model was utilized to mimic E. coli-induced acute intestinal inflammation, and the effects of a cruciferous vegetable-derived cancer protective compound, indole-3-carbinol (I3C), on the immune responses of Cr-susceptible C3H/HeN mice were investigated. Dietary I3C significantly inhibited the loss of body weight and the increase in spleen size in Cr infected mice. In addition, I3C treatment reduced the inflammatory response to Cr infection by maintaining anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-22 mRNA levels while reducing expression of other pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL17A, IL6, IL1β, TNF-α, and IFN-γ. Moreover, the serum cytokine levels of IL17, TNF-α, IL12p70, and G-CSF also were down-regulated by I3C in Cr-infected mice. Additionally, dietary I3C specifically enhanced the Cr-specific IgG response to Cr infection. In general, dietary I3C reduced the Cr-induced pro-inflammatory response in susceptible C3H/HeN mice and alleviated the physiological changes and tissue damage induced by Cr infection but not Cr colonization.
Supplementation with Resveratrol, Piperine and Alpha-Tocopherol Decreases Chronic Inflammation in a Cluster of Older Adults with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Pastor Raúl Francisco , Repetto Marisa Gabriela , Lairion Fabiana , Lazarowski Alberto , Merelli Amalia , Manfredi Carabetti Zulma , Pastor Isabel , Pastor Elena , Iermoli Laura Valeria , Bavasso Carlos Amadeo , Iermoli Roberto Héctor
Published: October 2020

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is increasing worldwide regardless of culture, genetic, gender, and geographic differences. While multiple individual risk factors, such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, can cause cardiovascular disease (CVD), it is the intercurrence of these risk factors that defines MetS as a cluster that creates an environment for atherosclerosis and other manifestations of CVD. Despite the advances in the knowledge and management of each of the components of MetS, there are two molecular biology processes, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, which are still underdiagnosed and undertreated. In order to assess the effect of a dietary supplement on chronic inflammation in MetS, we conducted a clinical trial with volunteers receiving a formula composed of resveratrol, piperine and alpha tocopherol (FRAMINTROL®), together with their habitual treatment, for three months. The inflammatory state was evaluated by ultrasensitive C reactive protein (US CRP) and ferritin in plasma, and oxygen consumption and chemiluminescence in neutrophils. The results showed that ferritin decreased by 10% (p < 0.05), US-CRP by 33% (p < 0.0001), oxygen consumption by 55% (p < 0.0001), and spontaneous chemiluminiscence was by 25% (p < 0.005) after treatment. As far as we know, this is the first study showing a chronic inflammation decrease in MetS patients due to the administration of a biopower Resveratrol-piperine and alpha tocopherol dietary supplement together with conventional therapy.
Beverages in Rheumatoid Arthritis: What to Prefer or to Avoid
Authors: Dey Mrinalini , Cutolo Maurizio , Nikiphorou Elena
Published: October 2020

Background: The role of nutrition in the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), has gained increasing attention in recent years. A growing number of studies have focussed on the diverse nutritional contents of beverages, and their possible role in the development and progression of RA. Main body: We aimed to summarise the current knowledge on the role of a range of beverages in the context of RA. Beverages have a key role within the mosaic of autoimmunity in RA and potential to alter the microbiome, leading to downstream effects on inflammatory pathways. The molecular contents of beverages, including coffee, tea, and wine, have similarly been found to interfere with immune signalling pathways, some beneficial for disease progression and others less so. Finally, we consider beverages in the context of wider dietary patterns, and how this growing body of evidence may be harnessed by the multidisciplinary team in patient management. Conclusions: While there is increasing work focussing on the role of beverages in RA, integration of discussions around diet and lifestyle in our management of patients remains sparse. Nutrition in RA remains a controversial topic, but future studies, especially on the role of beverages, are likely to shed further light on this in coming years.
Development of a Multivariate Predictive Dissolution Model for Tablets Coated with Cellulose Ester Blends
Authors: Mohamed Eman M. , Khuroo Tahir , Afrooz Hamideh , Dharani Sathish , Sediri Khaldia , Cook Phillip , Arunagiri Rajendran , Khan Mansoor A. , Rahman Ziyaur
Published: October 2020

The focus of the present investigation was to develop a predictive dissolution model for tablets coated with blends of cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) 171-15 and cellulose acetate phthalate (C-A-P) using the design of experiment and chemometric approaches. Diclofenac sodium was used as a model drug. Coating weight gain (X1, 5, 7.5 and 10%) and CAB 171-15 percentage (X2, 33.3, 50 and 66.7%) in the coating composition relative to C-A-P and were selected as independent variables by full factorial experimental design. The responses monitored were dissolution at 1 (Y1), 8 (Y2), and 24 (Y3) h. Statistically significant (p < 0.05) effects of X1 on Y1 and X2 on Y1, Y2, and Y3 were observed. The models showed a good correlation between actual and predicted values as indicated by the correlation coefficients of 0.964, 0.914, and 0.932 for Y1, Y2, and Y3, respectively. For the chemometric model development, the near infrared spectra of the coated tablets were collected, and partial least square regression (PLSR) was performed. PLSR also showed a good correlation between actual and model predicted values as indicated by correlation coefficients of 0.916, 0.964, and 0.974 for Y1, Y2, and Y3, respectively. Y1, Y2, and Y3 predicted values of the independent sample by both approaches were close to the actual values. In conclusion, it is possible to predict the dissolution of tablets coated with blends of cellulose esters by both approaches.