bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic and Highly Luminescent Heterostructures of Gd3+/ZnO Conjugated to GCIS/ZnS Quantum Dots for Multimodal Imaging
Authors: Lallo da Silva Bruna , Lemaire Laurent , Benoit Jean-Pierre , Borges Fernanda Hediger , Gonçalves Rogéria Rocha , Amantino Camila Fernanda , Primo Fernando Lucas , Chiavacci Leila Aparecida
Published: July 2021

In recent years, the use of quantum dots (Qdots) to obtain biological images has attracted attention due to their excellent luminescent properties and the possibility of their association with contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this study, Gd3+/ZnO (ZnOGd) were conjugated with Qdots composed of a gadolinium-copper-indium-sulphur core covered with a ZnS shell (GCIS/ZnS Qdots). This conjugation is an innovation that has not yet been described in the literature, and which aims to improve Qdot photoluminescent properties. Structural and morphological Qdots features were obtained by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA). The photoluminescent properties were examined by emission (PL) and excitation (PLE) spectra. A new ZnOGd and GCIS/ZnS (ZnOGd-GCIS/ZnS) nanomaterial was synthesized with tunable optical properties depending on the ratio between the two native Qdots. A hydrophilic or lipophilic coating, using 3-glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GPTMS) or hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HTMS) on the surface of ZnOGd-GCIS/ZnS Qdots, was carried out before assessing their efficiency as magnetic resonance contrast agents. ZnOGd-GCIS/ZnS had excellent luminescence and MRI properties. The new Qdots developed ZnOGd-GCIS/ZnS, mostly constituted of ZnOGd (75%), which had less cytotoxicity when compared to ZnOGd, as well as greater cellular uptake.
Copper-Silver Nanohybrids: SARS-CoV-2 Inhibitory Surfaces
Authors: Mosselhy Dina A. , Kareinen Lauri , Kivistö Ilkka , Aaltonen Kirsi , Virtanen Jenni , Ge Yanling , Sironen Tarja
Published: July 2021

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) remains a severe health threat. The COVID-19 infections occurring in humans and animals render human-animal interfaces hot spots for spreading the pandemic. Lessons from the past point towards the antiviral properties of copper formulations; however, data showing the “contact-time limit” surface inhibitory efficacy of copper formulations to contain SARS-CoV-2 are limited. Here, we show the rapid inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 after only 1 and 5 min on two different surfaces containing copper-silver (Cu-Ag) nanohybrids. We characterized the nanohybrids’ powder and surfaces using a series of sophisticated microscopy tools, including transmission and scanning electron microscopes (TEM and SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). We used culturing methods to demonstrate that Cu-Ag nanohybrids with high amounts of Cu (~65 and 78 wt%) and lower amounts of Ag (~7 and 9 wt%) inhibited SARS-CoV-2 efficiently. Collectively, the present work reveals the rapid SARS-CoV-2 surface inhibition and the promising application of such surfaces to break the SARS-CoV-2 transmission chain. For example, such applications could be invaluable within a hospital or live-stock settings, or any public place with surfaces that people frequently touch (i.e., public transportation, shopping malls, elevators, and door handles) after the precise control of different parameters and toxicity evaluations.
Catalytic Dehydration of Fructose to 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural in Aqueous Medium over Nb2O5-Based Catalysts
Authors: García-López Elisa I. , Pomilla Francesca Rita , Megna Bartolomeo , Testa Maria Luisa , Liotta Leonarda Francesca , Marcì Giuseppe
Published: July 2021

The catalytic dehydration of fructose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) in water was performed in the presence of pristine Nb2O5 and composites containing Nb and Ti, Ce or Zr oxides. In all experiments, fructose was converted to HMF using water as the solvent. The catalysts were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, N2 physical adsorption, infrared and Raman spectroscopy and temperature-programmed desorption of NH3. Experimental parameters such as fructose initial concentration, volume of the reacting suspension, operation temperature, reaction time and amount of catalyst were tuned in order to optimize the catalytic reaction process. The highest selectivity to HMF was ca. 80% in the presence of 0.5 g·L−1 of bare Nb2O5, Nb2O5-TiO2 or Nb2O5-CeO2 with a maximum fructose conversion of ca. 70%. However, the best compromise between high conversion and high selectivity was reached by using 1 g·L−1 of pristine Nb2O5. Indeed, the best result was obtained in the presence of Nb2O5, with a fructose conversion of 76% and a selectivity to HMF of 75%, corresponding to the highest HMF yield (57%). This result was obtained at a temperature of 165° in an autoclave after three hours of reaction by using 6 mL of 1 M fructose suspension with a catalyst amount equal to 1 g·L−1.
Application of Electrospinning in Antibacterial Field
Authors: Li Honghai , Chen Xin , Lu Weipeng , Wang Jie , Xu Yisheng , Guo Yanchuan
Published: July 2021

In recent years, electrospun nanofibers have attracted extensive attention due to their large specific surface area, high porosity, and controllable shape. Among the many applications of electrospinning, electrospun nanofibers used in fields such as tissue engineering, food packaging, and air purification often require some antibacterial properties. This paper expounds the development potential of electrospinning in the antibacterial field from four aspects: fiber morphology, antibacterial materials, antibacterial mechanism, and application fields. The effects of fiber morphology and antibacterial materials on the antibacterial activity and characteristics are first presented, then followed by a discussion of the antibacterial mechanisms and influencing factors of these materials. Typical application examples of antibacterial nanofibers are presented, which show the good prospects of electrospinning in the antibacterial field.
Formation Mechanisms and Phase Stability of Solid-State Grown CsPbI3 Perovskites
Authors: Satta Jessica , Casu Alberto , Chiriu Daniele , Carbonaro Carlo Maria , Stagi Luigi , Ricci Pier Carlo
Published: July 2021

CsPbI3 inorganic perovskite is synthesized by a solvent-free, solid-state reaction, and its structural and optical properties can be deeply investigated using a multi-technique approach. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Raman measurements, optical absorption, steady-time and time-resolved luminescence, as well as High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) imaging, were exploited to understand phase evolution as a function of synthesis time length. Nanoparticles with multiple, well-defined crystalline domains of different crystalline phases were observed, usually surrounded by a thin, amorphous/out-of-axis shell. By increasing the synthesis time length, in addition to the pure α phase, which was rapidly converted into the δ phase at room temperature, a secondary phase, Cs4PbI6, was observed, together with the 715 nm-emitting γ phase.
A Plasmonic Infrared Multiple-Channel Filter Based on Gold Composite Nanocavities Metasurface
Authors: Zhang Jialin , Yu Xuanyi , Dong Jingxin , Yang Weiji , Liu Shuang , Shen Chongyang , Duan Jiacheng , Deng Xiaoxu
Published: July 2021

A plasmonic near-infrared multiple-channel filter is numerically and experimentally investigated based on a gold periodic composite nanocavities metasurface. By the interference among different excited plasmonic modes on the metasurface, the multipeak extraordinary optical transmission (EOT) phenomenon is induced and utilized to realize multiple-channel filtering. Investigated from the simulated transmission spectrum of the metasurface, the positions and intensity of transmission peaks are tuned by the geometrical parameters of the metasurface and environmental refractive index. The fabricated metasurface approached transmission peaks at 1128 nm, 1245 nm, and 1362 nm, functioning as a three-passbands filter. With advantages of brief single-layer fabrication and multi-frequency selectivity, the proposed plasmonic filter has potential possibilities of integration in nano-photonic switching, detecting and biological sensing systems.
Formation of Pt-Based Alloy Nanoparticles Assisted by Molybdenum Hexacarbonyl
Authors: Leteba Gerard M. , Mitchell David R. G. , Levecque Pieter B. J. , van Steen Eric , Lang Candace I.
Published: July 2021

We report on an optimized, scalable solution-phase synthetic procedure for the fabrication of fine-tuned monodisperse nanostructures (Pt(NiCo), PtNi and PtCo). The influence of different solute metal precursors and surfactants on the morphological evolution of homogeneous alloy nanoparticles (NPs) has been investigated. Molybdenum hexacarbonyl (Mo(CO)6) was used as the reductant. We demonstrate that this solution-based strategy results in uniform-sized NPs, the morphology of which can be manipulated by appropriate selection of surfactants and solute metal precursors. Co-surfactants (oleylamine, OAm, and hexadecylamine, HDA) enabled the development of a variety of high-index faceted NP morphologies with varying degrees of curvatures while pure OAm selectively produced octahedral NP morphologies. This Mo(CO)6-based synthetic protocol offers new avenues for the fabrication of multi-structured alloy NPs as high-performance electrocatalysts.
Effects of Mediterranean Diet or Low-Fat Diet on Blood Fatty Acids in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease. A Randomized Intervention Study
Authors: Giroli Monica Gianna , Werba José Pablo , Risé Patrizia , Porro Benedetta , Sala Angelo , Amato Manuela , Tremoli Elena , Bonomi Alice , Veglia Fabrizio
Published: July 2021

The Mediterranean diet (MD) prevents cardiovascular disease by different putative mechanisms, including modifications in the blood fatty acid (FA) profile. Polytherapy for secondary cardiovascular prevention might mask the effect of MD on the FA profile. This study was aimed to assess whether MD, in comparison with a low-fat diet (LFD), favorably modifies the blood FA profile in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) on polytherapy. One hundred and twenty patients with a recent history of coronary stenting, randomized to MD or to LFD, completed 3 months of this open-label dietary intervention study. Diet Mediterranean-ness was evaluated using the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MeDAS) score. Both diets significantly reduced saturated FA (p < 0.01). Putative favorable changes in total n-3 FA (p = 0.03) and eicosapentaenoic acid plus docosahexaenoic acid (EPA + DHA; p = 0.04) were significantly larger with MD than with LFD. At 3 months, in the whole cohort, the MeDAS score correlated inversely with palmitic acid (R = −0.21, p = 0.02), and with palmitoleic acid (R = −0.32, p = 0.007), and positively with total n-3 FA (R = 0.19, p = 0.03), EPA (R = 0.28, p = 0.002), and EPA + DHA (R = 0.21, p = 0.02). In CHD patients on polytherapy, both MD and LFD shift FA blood composition towards a healthier profile, with a more favorable effect of MD on omega−3 levels.
α-Hydroxyisocaproic Acid Decreases Protein Synthesis but Attenuates TNFα/IFNγ Co-Exposure-Induced Protein Degradation and Myotube Atrophy via Suppression of iNOS and IL-6 in Murine C2C12 Myotube
Authors: Sumi Koichiro , Sakuda Misato , Munakata Kinuyo , Nakamura Kentaro , Ashida Kinya
Published: July 2021

There is ongoing debate as to whether or not α-hydroxyisocaproic acid (HICA) positively regulates skeletal muscle protein synthesis resulting in the gain or maintenance of skeletal muscle. We investigated the effects of HICA on mouse C2C12 myotubes under normal conditions and during cachexia induced by co-exposure to TNFα and IFNγ. The phosphorylation of AMPK or ERK1/2 was significantly altered 30 min after HICA treatment under normal conditions. The basal protein synthesis rates measured by a deuterium-labeling method were significantly lowered by the HICA treatment under normal and cachexic conditions. Conversely, myotube atrophy induced by TNFα/IFNγ co-exposure was significantly improved by the HICA pretreatment, and this improvement was accompanied by the inhibition of iNOS expression and IL-6 production. Moreover, HICA also suppressed the TNFα/IFNγ co-exposure-induced secretion of 3-methylhistidine. These results demonstrated that HICA decreases basal protein synthesis under normal or cachexic conditions; however, HICA might attenuate skeletal muscle atrophy via maintaining a low level of protein degradation under cachexic conditions.
Dietary Determinants of Anemia in Children Aged 6–36 Months: A Cross-Sectional Study in Indonesia
Authors: Sunardi Diana , Bardosono Saptawati , Basrowi Ray W. , Wasito Erika , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: July 2021

Anemia has been acknowledged as worldwide problem, including in Indonesia. This cross-sectional study aims to explore dietary determinants as risk factors for anemia in children aged 6–36 months living in a poor urban area of Jakarta. The study was done in Kampung Melayu sub-district in Jakarta, Indonesia. Data was collected within two weeks in September–October 2020. A structured questionnaire for a 24-h recall and a semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) were used to collect the dietary intake data, and venous blood was withdrawn to determine the hemoglobin levels. Bivariate chi-square and multiple logistic regression tests were executed to explore the dietary determinant factors for anemia. We recruited 180 subjects. The average hemoglobin concentration was 11.4 ± 1.7 mg/dL; the anemia prevalence was 29.4%. The following variables were significantly associated with higher risk of anemia: no cow’s milk formula consumption, inadequate intake of fats, protein, calcium, vitamin D, iron, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. Only cow’s milk formula consumption and zinc intake were revealed as the determinant factors of anemia. In conclusion, the prevalence of anemia was 29.4% among children aged 6–36 months old. Anemia was significantly associated with two dietary determinants as risk factors that are cow’s milk formula consumption and zinc intake.
Muscle Thickness and Echogenicity Measured by Ultrasound Could Detect Local Sarcopenia and Malnutrition in Older Patients Hospitalized for Hip Fracture
Authors: Sanz-Paris Alejandro , González-Fernandez Mikel , Hueso-Del Río Luis Enrique , Ferrer-Lahuerta Eduardo , Monge-Vazquez Alejandra , Losfablos-Callau Francisco , Sanclemente-Hernández Teresa , Sanz-Arque Alejandro , Arbones-Mainar Jose Miguel
Published: July 2021

Background: The aim of this work was to assess whether the muscle thickness and echogenicity were associated with dysphagia, malnutrition, sarcopenia, and functional capacity in acute hospital admission for a hip fracture. Methods: Observational study that assessed nutritional status by Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition, risk of dysphagia and sarcopenia by European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People and Barthel functional index. We measured muscle thickness and echogenicity of masseter, bicipital, and quadriceps rectus femoris (RF) and vastus intermedius (VI) by ultrasound. Results: One hundred and one patients were included in the study (29.7% sarcopenia and 43.8% malnutrition). Logistic regression models adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index showed an inverse association of the masseter thickness with both sarcopenia (OR: 0.56) and malnutrition (OR: 0.38) and quadriceps with sarcopenia (OR: 0.74). In addition, patients at high risk of dysphagia had lower masseter thickness (p: 0.0001) while patients able to self-feeding had thicker biceps (p: 0.002) and individuals with mobility on level surfaces higher thickness of biceps (p: 0.008) and quadriceps (p: 0.04). Conclusion: Thickness of the masseter was associated with risk of dysphagia, biceps with the ability to self-feed, and that of the quadriceps RF-VI with mobility.
Socioeconomic Status Impact on Diet Quality and Body Mass Index in Eight Latin American Countries: ELANS Study Results
Authors: Gómez Georgina , Kovalskys Irina , Leme Ana , Quesada Dayana , Rigotti Attilio , Cortés Sanabria Lilia , Yépez García Martha , Liria-Domínguez María , Herrera-Cuenca Marianella , Fisberg Regina , Nogueira Previdelli Agatha , Guajardo Viviana , Ferrari Gerson , Fisberg Mauro , Brenes Juan ,   on behalf of the ELANS Study Group
Published: July 2021

Poor health and diet quality are associated with living within a low socioeconomic status (SES). This study aimed to investigate the impact of SES on diet quality and body mass index in Latin America. Data from the “Latin American Health and Nutrition Study (ELANS)”, a multi-country, population-based study of 9218 participants, were used. Dietary intake was collected through two 24 h recalls from participants of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela. Diet quality was assessed using the dietary quality score (DQS), the dietary diversity score (DDS) and the nutrients adequacy ratio (NAR). Chi-squared and multivariate-variance analyses were used to estimate possible associations. We found that participants from the low SES consumed less fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fiber and fish and seafood and more legumes than those in the high SES. Also, the diet quality level, assessed by DQS, DDS and NAR mean, increased with SES. Women in the low SES also showed a larger prevalence of abdominal obesity and excess weight than those in the middle and high SES. Health policies and behavioral-change strategies should be addressed to reduce the impact of socioeconomic factors on diet quality and body weight, with gender as an additional level of vulnerability.
Effect of Intake of Food Hydrocolloids of Bacterial Origin on the Glycemic Response in Humans: Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis
Authors: Alshammari Norah A. , Taylor Moira A. , Stevenson Rebecca , Gouseti Ourania , Alyami Jaber , Muttakin Syahrizal , Bakalis Serafim , Lovegrove Alison , Aithal Guruprasad P. , Marciani Luca
Published: July 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition characterized by increased blood glucose levels from dysfunctional carbohydrate metabolism. Dietary intervention can help to prevent and manage the disease. Food hydrocolloids have been shown to have favorable properties in relation to glycaemic regulation. However, the use of food hydrocolloids of bacterial origin to modulate glucose responses is much less explored than other types of hydrocolloids. We, therefore, carried out the first review examining the impact of intake of food hydrocolloids of bacterial origin (as a direct supplement or incorporated into foods) on glycemic response in humans. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria. They used either xanthan gum, pullulan, or dextran as interventions. There was a wide variation in the amount of hydrocolloid supplementation provided and methods of preparation. Postprandial blood glucose responses were reduced in half of the studies, particularly at higher intake levels and longer chain hydrocolloids. When xanthan gum was added to the cooking process of muffins and rice, a significant reduction in postprandial blood glucose was observed. The use of these hydrocolloids is potentially effective though more research is needed in this area.
Fish Acquisition and Consumption in the African Great Lakes Region through a Food Environment Lens: A Scoping Review
Authors: de Bruyn Julia , Wesana Joshua , Bunting Stuart W. , Thilsted Shakuntala H. , Cohen Philippa J.
Published: July 2021

Effective actions for the fishery and aquaculture sectors to contribute toward improving nutrition rely on an understanding of the factors influencing fish intake, particularly amongst vulnerable populations. This scoping review synthesises evidence from 33 studies in the African Great Lakes Region to examine the influence of food environments on fish acquisition and consumption. We identified only two studies that explicitly applied a food environment framework and none that linked policy conditions with the contribution of fish to diets. Economic access to fish was represented in the largest number of included studies (21 studies), followed by preferences, acceptability and desirability of fish (17 studies) and availability and physical access (14 studies). Positive perceptions of taste and low cost, relative to other animal-source foods, were drivers of fish purchases in many settings; however, limited physical and economic access were frequently identified as preventing optimal intake. In lakeside communities, fish were increasingly directed toward external markets which reduced the availability and affordability of fish for local households. Few studies considered intra-household variations in fish access according to age, gender or physiological status, which represents an important knowledge gap. There is also scope for future research on seasonal influences on fish access and the design and rigorous evaluation of programmes and policies that address one or more constraints of availability, cost, convenience and preferences.
Caffeine Has Different Immunomodulatory Effect on the Cytokine Expression and NLRP3 Inflammasome Function in Various Human Macrophage Subpopulations
Authors: Kovács Elek Gergő , Alatshan Ahmad , Budai Marietta Margit , Czimmerer Zsolt , Bíró Eduárd , Benkő Szilvia
Published: July 2021

Besides its well-known psychoactive effects, caffeine has a broad range of actions. It regulates several physiological mechanisms as well as modulates both native and adaptive immune responses by various ways. Although caffeine is assumed to be a negative regulator of inflammation, the effect on the secretion of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines is highly controversial. Macrophages are major mediators of inflammatory responses; however, the various subpopulations develop different effects ranging from the initiation to the resolution of inflammation. Here we report a comparative analysis of the effect of caffeine on two subpopulations of human monocyte-derived macrophages differentiated in the presence of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) or granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), resulting in M-MΦs and GM-MΦs, respectively. We showed that although TNF-α secretion was downregulated in both LPS-activated MΦ subtypes by caffeine, the secretion of IL-8, IL-6, and IL-1β as well as the expression of Nod-like receptors was enhanced in M-MΦs, while it did not change in GM-MΦs. We showed that caffeine (1) altered adenosine receptor expression, (2) changed Akt/AMPK/mTOR signaling pathways, and (3) inhibited STAT1/IL-10 signaling axis in M-MΦs. We hypothesized that these alterations play an important modulatory role in the upregulation of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated IL-1β secretion in LPS-activated M-MΦs following caffeine treatment.
Nutraceuticals in Viral Infections: An Overview of the Immunomodulating Properties
Authors: Costagliola Giorgio , Nuzzi Giulia , Spada Erika , Comberiati Pasquale , Verduci Elvira , Peroni Diego G.
Published: July 2021

Nutraceuticals, including vitamin D, vitamin A, zinc, lactoferrin, polyphenols coenzyme Q, magnesium, and selenium, are implicated in the modulation of the complex molecular pathways involved in the immune response against viral pathogens. A common element of the activity of nutraceuticals is their ability to enhance the innate immune response against pathogens by acting on the major cellular subsets and inducing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and antimicrobial peptides. In some cases, this action is accompanied by a direct antimicrobial effect, as evidenced in the specific case of lactoferrin. Furthermore, nutraceuticals act through complex molecular mechanisms to minimize the damage caused by the activation of the immune system against pathogens, reducing the oxidative damage, influencing the antigen presentation, enhancing the differentiation and proliferation of regulatory T cells, driving the differentiation of lymphocyte subsets, and modulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In this paper, we review the main molecular mechanisms responsible for the immunomodulatory function of nutraceuticals, focusing on the most relevant aspects for the prevention and treatment of viral infections.
Assessment of Swallowing Disorders, Nutritional and Hydration Status, and Oral Hygiene in Students with Severe Neurological Disabilities Including Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Costa Alicia , Martin Alberto , Arreola Viridiana , Riera Stephanie A. , Pizarro Ana , Carol Cristina , Serras Laia , Clavé Pere
Published: July 2021

Background: Special needs schools (SNS) educate children and young people with major neurological disabilities who are at high risk of oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) and malnutrition (MN). We aimed to assess the prevalence of OD, MN, dehydration (DH), and oral health (OH) in students at an SNS. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at SNS L’Arboç, Catalonia, Spain. We assessed (a) demographics, health status, comorbidities, and gross motor function classification system (GMFCS), (b) swallowing function, oral-motor evaluation, masticatory capacity, and EDACS classification for eating and drinking abilities, (c) nutritional and DH status (anthropometry, bioimpedance and dietary records), and (d) OH (Oral Hygiene Index Simplified). Results: A total of 33 students (mean age 13.3 years; 39.4% level V of GMFCS) were included. Main diagnosis was cerebral palsy at 57.6%. All students presented OD, 90.6% had impaired safety, 68.7% were at levels II–III of EDACS, and 31.3% required PEG; furthermore, 89.3% had chronic MN, 21.4% had acute MN, 70% presented intracellular DH, and 83.9% presented impaired OH. Conclusion: MN, DH, OD, and poor OH are highly prevalent conditions in students with cerebral palsy and other neurological disabilities and must be specifically managed through nutritional and educational strategies. The multidisciplinary team at SNS should include healthcare professionals specifically trained in these conditions.
Bacterial Diversity of Breast Milk in Healthy Spanish Women: Evolution from Birth to Five Years Postpartum
Authors: Sanjulián Laura , Lamas Alexandre , Barreiro Rocío , Cepeda Alberto , Fente Cristina A. , Regal Patricia
Published: July 2021

The objective of this work was to characterize the microbiota of breast milk in healthy Spanish mothers and to investigate the effects of lactation time on its diversity. A total of ninety-nine human milk samples were collected from healthy Spanish women and were assessed by means of next-generation sequencing of 16S rRNA amplicons and by qPCR. Firmicutes was the most abundant phylum, followed by Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, and Proteobacteria. Accordingly, Streptococcus was the most abundant genus. Lactation time showed a strong influence in milk microbiota, positively correlating with Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes, while Firmicutes was relatively constant over lactation. 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing showed that the highest alpha-diversity was found in samples of prolonged lactation, along with wider differences between individuals. As for milk nutrients, calcium, magnesium, and selenium levels were potentially associated with Streptococcus and Staphylococcus abundance. Additionally, Proteobacteria was positively correlated with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels in breast milk, and Staphylococcus with conjugated linoleic acid. Conversely, Streptococcus and trans-palmitoleic acid showed a negative association. Other factors such as maternal body mass index or diet also showed an influence on the structure of these microbial communities. Overall, human milk in Spanish mothers appeared to be a complex niche shaped by host factors and by its own nutrients, increasing in diversity over time.
Frequency and Characteristics of Overestimated Renal Function in Japanese Patients with Chronic Liver Disease and Its Relation to Sarcopenia
Authors: Yoshida Sonoe , Suda Goki , Ohara Masatsugu , Fu Qingjie , Yang Zijian , Hosoda Shunichi , Kimura Megumi , Akinori Kubo , Tokuchi Yoshimasa , Yamada Ren , Kitagataya Takashi , Suzuki Kazuharu , Kawagishi Naoki , Nakai Masato , Sho Takuya , Natsuizaka Mitsuteru , Morikawa Kenichi , Ogawa Koji , Maehara Osamu , Ohnishi Shunsuke , Sakamoto Naoya
Published: July 2021

Renal dysfunction and sarcopenia are important prognostic factors in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD). Muscle atrophy can cause the overestimation of renal function based on serum creatinine. However, the frequency of overestimated renal function in Japanese patients with CLD and its relationship with sarcopenia are unclear. In present study, we evaluated the frequency of overestimated renal function, defined as a >20% higher eGFR using creatinine than using cystatin C, in 307 patients with CLD as well as its relationship with indicators of sarcopenia. In total, 24.8% of patients had overestimated renal function. In a multivariate regression analysis, liver cirrhosis (p = 0.004) and psoas muscle mass index (p = 0.049) were significantly associated with overestimated renal function. Loss of skeletal muscle mass was significantly more frequent in both male and female patients with overestimated renal function than without. In males, the loss of muscle strength and rate of sarcopenia, defined as loss of muscle mass and strength, were significantly higher in patients with than without overestimated renal function. The high frequency of overestimated renal function in Japanese patients suggests that indicators of renal function should be carefully considered; furthermore, monitoring and interventions for both renal function and sarcopenia are needed in patients with CLD.
Modulation of Neuroinflammation by the Gut Microbiota in Prion and Prion-Like Diseases
Authors: Trichka Josephine , Zou Wen-Quan
Published: July 2021

The process of neuroinflammation contributes to the pathogenic mechanism of many neurodegenerative diseases. The deleterious attributes of neuroinflammation involve aberrant and uncontrolled activation of glia, which can result in damage to proximal brain parenchyma. Failure to distinguish self from non-self, as well as leukocyte reaction to aggregation and accumulation of proteins in the CNS, are the primary mechanisms by which neuroinflammation is initiated. While processes local to the CNS may instigate neurodegenerative disease, the existence or dysregulation of systemic homeostasis can also serve to improve or worsen CNS pathologies, respectively. One fundamental component of systemic homeostasis is the gut microbiota, which communicates with the CNS via microbial metabolite production, the peripheral nervous system, and regulation of tryptophan metabolism. Over the past 10–15 years, research focused on the microbiota–gut–brain axis has culminated in the discovery that dysbiosis, or an imbalance between commensal and pathogenic gut bacteria, can promote CNS pathologies. Conversely, a properly regulated and well-balanced microbiome supports CNS homeostasis and reduces the incidence and extent of pathogenic neuroinflammation. This review will discuss the role of the gut microbiota in exacerbating or alleviating neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases, and potential microbiota-based therapeutic approaches to reduce pathology in diseased states.
Site-Specific Antibody Conjugation to Engineered Double Cysteine Residues
Authors: Zhou Qun , Kyazike Josephine , Boudanova Ekaterina , Drzyzga Michael , Honey Denise , Cost Robert , Hou Lihui , Duffieux Francis , Brun Marie-Priscille , Park Anna , Qiu Huawei
Published: July 2021

Site-specific antibody conjugations generate homogeneous antibody-drug conjugates with high therapeutic index. However, there are limited examples for producing the site-specific conjugates with a drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR) greater than two, especially using engineered cysteines. Based on available Fc structures, we designed and introduced free cysteine residues into various antibody CH2 and CH3 regions to explore and expand this technology. The mutants were generated using site-directed mutagenesis with good yield and properties. Conjugation efficiency and selectivity were screened using PEGylation. The top single cysteine mutants were then selected and combined as double cysteine mutants for expression and further investigation. Thirty-six out of thirty-eight double cysteine mutants display comparable expression with low aggregation similar to the wild-type antibody. PEGylation screening identified seventeen double cysteine mutants with good conjugatability and high selectivity. PEGylation was demonstrated to be a valuable and efficient approach for quickly screening mutants for high selectivity as well as conjugation efficiency. Our work demonstrated the feasibility of generating antibody conjugates with a DAR greater than 3.4 and high site-selectivity using THIOMABTM method. The top single or double cysteine mutants identified can potentially be applied to site-specific antibody conjugation of cytotoxin or other therapeutic agents as a next generation conjugation strategy.
Inhibition of the Hepatic Uptake of 99mTc-Tetrofosmin Using an Organic Cation Transporter Blocker
Authors: Nishi Kodai , Kobayashi Masato , Kikuchi Minori , Mizutani Asuka , Muranaka Yuka , Tamai Ikumi , Kawai Keiichi , Kudo Takashi
Published: July 2021

The accumulation of high levels of 99mTc-tetrofosmin (99mTc-TF) in the hepatobiliary system can lead to imaging artifacts and interference with diagnosis. The present study investigated the transport mechanisms of 99mTc-TF and attempted to apply competitive inhibition using a specific inhibitor to reduce 99mTc-TF hepatic accumulation. In this in vitro study, 99mTc-TF was incubated in HEK293 cells expressing human organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B1 (OATP1B1), OATP1B3, OATP2B1, organic anion transporter 2 (OAT2), organic cation transporter 1 (OCT1), OCT2, and Na+-taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide with or without each specific inhibitor to evaluate the contribution of each transporter to 99mTc-TF transportation. In vivo studies, dynamic planar imaging, and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) experiments with rats were performed to observe alterations to 99mTc-TF pharmacokinetics using cimetidine (CMT) as an OCT1 inhibitor. Time–activity curves in the liver and heart were acquired from dynamic data, and the 99mTc-TF uptake ratio was calculated from SPECT. From the in vitro study, 99mTc-TF was found to be transported by OCT1 and OCT2. When CMT-preloaded rats and control rats were compared, the hepatic accumulation of the 99mTc-TF was reduced, and the time to peak heart count shifted to an earlier stage. The hepatic accumulation of 99mTc-TF was markedly suppressed, and the heart-to-liver ratio increased 1.6-fold. The pharmacokinetics of 99mTc-TF were greatly changed by OCT1 inhibitor. Even in humans, the administration of OCT1 inhibitor before cardiac SPECT examination may reduce 99mTc-TF hepatic accumulation and contribute to the suppression of artifacts and the improvement of SPECT image quality.
Tissue Distribution and Biochemical Changes in Response to Copper Accumulation in Erica australis L.
Authors: Trigueros Daniel , Rossini-Oliva Sabina
Published: July 2021

Copper uptake, accumulation in different tissues and organs and biochemical and physiological parameters were studied in Erica australis treated with different Cu concentrations (1, 50, 100 and 200 µM) under hydroponic culture. Copper treatments led to a significant reduction in growth rate, biomass production and water content in shoots, while photosynthetic pigments did not change. Copper treatments led to an increase in catalase and peroxidase activities. Copper accumulation followed the pattern roots > stems ≥ leaves, being roots the prevalent Cu sink. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy coupled with elemental X-ray analysis (SEM–EDX) showed a uniform Cu distribution in root tissues. On the contrary, in leaf tissues, Cu showed preferential storage in abaxial trichomes, suggesting a mechanism of compartmentation to restrict accumulation in mesophyll cells. The results show that the studied species act as a Cu-excluder, and Cu toxicity was avoided to a certain extent by root immobilization, leaf tissue compartmentation and induction of antioxidant enzymes to prevent cell damage.
Differential Responses of Antioxidative System during the Interaction of Soursop Fruits (Annona muricata L.) and Nectria haematococca at Postharvest Storage
Authors: Rubio-Melgarejo Alejandro , Balois-Morales Rosendo , Ochoa-Jiménez Verónica Alhelí , Casas-Junco Paloma Patricia , Jiménez-Zurita José Orlando , Bautista-Rosales Pedro Ulises , Berumen-Varela Guillermo
Published: July 2021

Soursop fruit (Annona muricata L.) production is diminished by the attack of pathogens such as Nectria haematococca. However, the fruit–pathogen interaction at the biochemical and molecular levels is still unknown. The objective of this study was to analyze the response of the soursop fruit to the presence of N. haematococca during postharvest storage. Soursop fruits were inoculated with the pathogen and total phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity by Ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS•+), and 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•), as well as enzymatic activity and transcript levels of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), were evaluated at 1, 3, and 5 days of storage. The noninoculated fruits were the controls of the experiment. The highest total phenol content was recorded on day one in the inoculated fruits. FRAP, ABTS, and DPPH activity presented the highest values on day three in the control fruits. Inoculated fruits recorded the highest PPO activity on day five and a five-fold induction in the PPO transcript on day three. SOD activity showed a decrease during the days of storage and 10-fold induction of SOD transcript on day three in the inoculated fruits. Principal component analysis showed that total phenols were the variable that contributed the most to the observed variations. Furthermore, a positive correlation between total phenols and SOD activity, PPO expression, and SOD expression, as well as between DPPH and FRAP, was recorded. The results showed a differential response in antioxidant capacity, enzymatic activity, and gene expression during the interaction of soursop fruits–N. haematococca at postharvest storage.
Fine Mapping of the Gene Controlling the Fruit Skin Hairiness of Prunus persica and Its Uses for MAS in Progenies
Authors: Lu Zhenhua , Pan Lei , Wei Bin , Niu Liang , Cui Guochao , Wang Luwei , Zeng Wenfang , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: July 2021

The fruit skin pubescence of Prunus persica is an economically important characteristic and comprises the classification criteria. The mapping and identification of a complete linkage marker to the fruit skin trichome trait locus of peach fruit are critical for the molecular marker-assisted selection for peach/nectarine. In this study, the BC1 population was constructed from the parents “Zhongyou No. 4”, the recurrent parent, and “Baihuashanbitao”, the non-recurrent parent. Based on the 38 BC1 individuals’ phenotypes and their genotyping using next-generation sequencing, the G (Glabrous skin) locus of the gene was first identified between 14.099 and 16.721 Mb on chromosome 5. Using other individuals of this population, the gene was fine-mapped in the range of 481 kb with SNP markers. Based on the resequencing data of other cultivars (lines), the candidate SNP in the gene Prupe.5G196400 was obtained. Subsequently, the SNP marker was designed and applied to natural and hybrid peach populations. Via genotyping analysis, we confirmed co-segregation between the peach/nectarine phenotype, which was used in the identification of peach or nectarine with 100% accuracy.
Cut Flower Characteristics and Growth Traits under Salt Stress in Lily Cultivars
Authors: Kang Yun-Im , Choi Youn Jung , Lee Young Ran , Seo Kyung Hye , Suh Jung-Nam , Lee Hye-Rim
Published: July 2021

Salt stress is a major constraint of crop productivity because it reduces yield and limits the expansion of agriculture. This study investigated salt tolerance in 26 cultivars of cut lilies (Lilium hybrids) by examining the effect of salt stress on the growth and morphological characteristics of flowers and leaves and their physiological properties (chlorophyll a fluorescence). Salt stress significantly affected the growth and development of cut lilies. Canonical discriminant analysis indicates that the middle leaf width, number of flowers, first flower diameter, petal width, and chlorophyll a fluorescence were correlated with salt stress, whereas plant height, the middle leaf length, days to flowering, and sepal width were less affected by the stress. The cultivars examined were divided into three groups: Group 1 included the salt-sensitive cultivars, which failed to develop normal flowers; Group 2 included cultivars sensitive to salt stress but tolerant to osmotic stress; and Group 3 was the salt-tolerant group, which developed commercially valuable flowers. In conclusion, the cultivars contained a variable range of cut flower characteristics and growth traits that can be employed for lily breeding programs and as material for molecular mechanisms and signaling networks under salt stress.
Improving Soil Quality and Potato Productivity with Manure and High-Residue Cover Crops in Eastern Canada
Authors: Nyiraneza Judith , Chen Dahu , Fraser Tandra , Comeau Louis-Pierre
Published: July 2021

Under intensive low residue agricultural systems, such as those involving potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)-based systems, stagnant crop yields and declining soil health and environmental quality are common issues. This study evaluated the effects of pen-pack cow (Bos Taurus) manure application (20 Mg·ha−1) and cover crops on nitrate dynamics and soil N supply capacity, subsequent potato yield, selected soil properties, and soil-borne disease. Eight cover crops were tested and included grasses, legumes, or a mixture of legumes and grasses, with red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) used as a control. Forage pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) was associated with highest dry matter. On average, red clover had 88% higher total N accumulation than the treatments mixing grasses and legumes, and the former was associated with higher soil nitrate in fall before residue incorporation and overwinter, but this was not translated into increased potato yields. Pearl millet and sorghum sudangrass (Sorghum bicolor × sorghum bicolor var. Sudanese) were associated with lower soil nitrate in comparison to red clover while being associated with higher total potato yield and lower numerical value of root-lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus penetrans), although this was not statistically significant at 5% probability level. Manure incorporation increased total and marketable yield by 28% and 26%, respectively, and increased soil N supply capacity by an average of 44%. Carbon dioxide released after a short incubation as a proxy of soil microbial respiration increased by an average of 27% with manure application. Our study quantified the positive effect of manure application and high-residue cover crops on soil quality and potato yield for the province of Prince Edward Island.
Combined Effects of Nutrients × Water × Light on Metabolite Composition in Tomato Fruits (Solanum Lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Kim Yangmin X. , Son Suyoung , Lee Seulbi , Jung Eunsung , Lee Yejin , Sung Jwakyung , Lee Choonghwan
Published: July 2021

Tomato cultivation in the greenhouse can be facilitated by supplemental light. We compared the combined effects of nutrients, water, and supplemental light (red) on tomato fruit quality. To do this, three different nutrient conditions were tested, i.e., (1) low N, (2) standard N, and (3) high N. Water was supplied either at −30 kPa (sufficient) or −80 kPa (limited) of soil water potential. Supplemental red LED light was turned either on or off. The metabolites from tomato fruits were profiled using non-targeted mass spectrometry (MS)-based metabolomic approaches. The lycopene content was highest in the condition of high N and limited water in the absence of supplemental light. In the absence of red lighting, the lycopene contents were greatly affected by nutrient and water conditions. Under the red lighting, the nutrient and water conditions did not play an important role in enhancing lycopene content. Lower N resulted in low amino acids. Low N was also likely to enhance some soluble carbohydrates. Interestingly, the combination of low N and red light led to a significant increase in sucrose, maltose, and flavonoids. In high N soil, red light increased a majority of amino acids, including aspartic acid and GABA, and sugars. However, it decreased most of the secondary metabolites such as phenylpropanoids, polyamines, and alkaloids. The water supply effect was minor. We demonstrated that different nutrient conditions of soil resulted in a difference in metabolic composition in tomato fruits and the effect of red light was variable depending on nutrient conditions.
Evaluation of the Antidiabetic Potential of Extracts of Urtica dioica, Apium graveolens, and Zingiber officinale in Mice, Zebrafish, and Pancreatic β-Cell
Authors: Pérez Gutiérrez Rosa Martha , Muñiz-Ramirez Alethia , Garcia-Campoy Abraham Heriberto , Mota Flores José María
Published: July 2021

Medicinal plants are commonly used in the treatment of diabetes, particularly as they contain flavonoids and phenolic compounds. The present study aims to investigate the activities of a polyherbal formulation made from Urtica dioica, Apium graveolens, and Zingiber officinale (UAZ) against streptozotocin–nicotinamide ((STZ-NA)-induced type 2 diabetes in CD1 mice, glucose-induced type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in zebrafish, and high glucose-induced damage in RINm5F pancreatic β-cells. In fasting mice, plasma glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C), lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and lipid profiles were significantly increased, whereas insulin, enzymatic antioxidants, and carbohydrate metabolic enzymes were altered significantly in diabetic mice. Zebrafish had similar glucose levels, liver enzymes, and lipid profiles compared to mice. The study investigated the effects of the extract in enhancing cell viability, insulin secretion, and reducing lipid peroxidation and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in RINm5F cells damaged by high glucose. All the above biochemical parameters were enhanced in both mice and zebrafish treated; the combined extract UAZ normalized all the biochemical parameters. The medicinal plant extracts, used either separately or in combination, ameliorated the adverse effect of glucose on cell viability and functionality of beta-RINm5F cells.
Identification of Candidate Gene-Based Markers for Girth Growth in Rubber Trees
Authors: Bhusudsawang Gunlayarat , Rattanawong Ratchanee , Phumichai Thitaporn , Pootakham Wirulda , Tangphatsornruang Sithichoke , Ukoskit Kittipat
Published: July 2021

Girth growth is an important factor in both latex and timber production of the rubber tree. In this study, we performed candidate gene association mapping for girth growth in rubber trees using intron length polymorphism markers (ILP) in identifying the candidate genes responsible for girth growth. The COBL064_1 marker developed from the candidate gene (COBL4) regulating cellulose deposition and oriented cell expansion in the plant cell wall showed the strongest association with girth growth across two seasons in the Amazonian population and was validated in the breeding lines. We then applied single molecule real-time (SMRT) circular consensus sequencing (CCS) to analyze a wider gene region of the COBL4 to pinpoint the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) that best explains the association with the traits. A SNP in the 3’ UTR showing linkage disequilibrium with the COBL064_1 most associated with girth growth. This study showed that the cost-effective method of ILP gene-based markers can assist in identification of SNPs in the candidate gene associated with girth growth. The SNP markers identified in this study added useful markers for the improvement of girth growth in rubber tree breeding programs.