bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Method for Prediction of Waterlogging Economic Losses in a Subway Station Project
Authors: Wu Han , Wang Junwu
Published: June 2021

In order to effectively solve the problems of low prediction accuracy and calculation efficiency of existing methods for estimating economic loss in a subway station engineering project due to rainstorm flooding, a new intelligent prediction model is developed using the sparrow search algorithm (SSA), the least-squares support vector machine (LSSVM) and the mean impact value (MIV) method. First, in this study, 11 input variables are determined from the disaster loss rate and asset value, and a complete method is provided for acquiring and processing data of all variables. Then, the SSA method, with strong optimization ability, fast convergence and few parameters, is used to optimize the kernel function and the penalty factor parameters of the LSSVM. Finally, the MIV is used to identify the important input variables, so as to reduce the predicted input variables and achieve higher calculation accuracy. In addition, 45 station projects in China were selected for empirical analysis. The empirical results revealed that the linear correlation between the 11 input variables and output variables was weak, which demonstrated the necessity of adopting nonlinear analysis methods such as the LSSVM. Compared with other forecasting methods, such as the multiple regression analysis, the backpropagation neural network (BPNN), the BPNN optimized by the particle swarm optimization, the BPNN optimized by the SSA, the LSSVM, the LSSVM optimized by the genetic algorithm, the PSO-LSSVM and the LSSVM optimized by the Grey Wolf Optimizer, the model proposed in this paper had higher accuracy and stability and was effectively used for forecasting economic loss in subway station engineering projects due to rainstorms.
Interrelationship among CE Adoption Obstacles of Supply Chain in the Textile Sector: Based on the DEMATEL-ISM Approach
Authors: Chen Wen-Kuo , Lin Ching-Torng
Published: June 2021

Globally, in the innovative and distributional circular textiles, the textile sector of Taiwan has a prominent place. Within the textile industry, the circular economy (CE) obstacles adopted have been studied by several scholars. However, the interrelationships among these obstacles are easily ignored. The present study aimed to identify CE adoption obstacles from the supply chain (SC) perspective in Taiwan’s textile sector by analyzing the interrelationships among the CE adoption obstacles and establishing a hierarchical network and the causal inter relationships of the identified obstacles. Furthermore, the CE adoption obstacles and interrelationships were analyzed using interpretative structural modeling and the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (ISM-DEMATEL). The common results of the two methods demonstrated that two obstacles, consumers not having sufficient knowledge and awareness of reuse/recycling (B1) and a lack of successful business models and frameworks for CE implementation (B3), were the significant obstacles influencing adopting CE in the textile supply chain, while the obstacle making the most efficient way (B12) of the right decision to implement CE was minor. Thus, the government should formulate friendly laws and regulations that encourage CE adoption, while textile firms should monitor and control recycling and efficiency approaches handling the CE adoption problems. Our results could offer first-hand knowledge to textile firms or managers to effetely achieve CE implementation objectives.
A New Approach of Some Contractive Mappings on Metric Spaces
Authors: Olaru Ion Marian , Secelean Nicolae Adrian
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we introduce a new contraction-type mapping and provide a fixed-point theorem which generalizes and improves some existing results in the literature. Thus, we prove that the Boyd and Wong theorem (1969) and, more recently, the fixed-point results due to Wardowski (2012), Turinici (2012), Piri and Kumam (2016), Secelean (2016), Proinov (2020), and others are consequences of our main result. An application in integral equations and some illustrative examples are indicated.
Quasistatic Porous-Thermoelastic Problems: An a Priori Error Analysis
Authors: Baldonedo Jacobo , Fernández José R. , López-Campos José A.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we deal with the numerical approximation of some porous-thermoelastic problems. Since the inertial effects are assumed to be negligible, the resulting motion equations are quasistatic. Then, by using the finite element method and the implicit Euler scheme, a fully discrete approximation is introduced. We prove a discrete stability property and a main error estimates result, from which we conclude the linear convergence under appropriate regularity conditions on the continuous solution. Finally, several numerical simulations are shown to demonstrate the accuracy of the approximation, the behavior of the solution and the decay of the discrete energy.
Stochastic Analysis of the Time Continuum
Authors: Milovanović Miloš , Vukmirović Srđan , Saulig Nicoletta
Published: June 2021

This paper considers the time continuum of Brouwer in terms of the complex system physics. It is based upon a processual definition of real numbers which concern the measurement problem. The multiresolution hierarchy of the measurement process is represented by the time operator acting on continuous signals. The wavelet domain hidden Markov model, which recapitulates statistical properties of the hierarchy, is verified experimentally on a wide range of signal ensembles. It indicates a novel method that has already been proved to be tremendously useful in applied mathematics.
Marine Antibiotics 2020
Authors: Fleury Yannick
Published: June 2021

The range of environmental conditions in marine life is tremendous at different physico-chemical criteria (temperature, light, pressure and salinity) [...]
Risk Analysis of Needle Injury to the Long Thoracic Nerve during Ultrasound-Guided C7 Selective Nerve Root Block
Authors: Kang Seok , Jeong Ha-Mok , Kim Beom-Suk , Yoon Joon-Shik
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives: Ultrasound (US)-guided cervical selective nerve root block (SNRB) is a widely used treatment for upper limb radicular pain. The long thoracic nerve (LTN) passes through the middle scalene muscle (MSM) at the C7 level. The needle trajectory of US-guided C7 SNRB pierces the MSM, therefore indicating a high probability of injury to the LTN. We aimed to identify the LTN and to investigate the risk of needle injury to the nerve during US-guided C7 SNRB. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study included 30 patients who underwent US-guided SNRB at the C7 level in a university hospital. We measured the maximal cross-sectional diameter (MCSD) of the LTN and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the C7 nerve root and assessed the injury risk of LTN during US-guided C7 SNRB by simulating the trajectory of the needle in the ultrasound image. Results: The LTN was detectable in all the cases, located inside and outside the MSM in 19 (63.3%) and 11 (36.7%) of cases, respectively. The LTN’s mean MCSD was 2.10 mm (SD 0.13), and the C7 root’s CSA was 10.78 mm2 (SD 1.05). The LTN location was within the simulated risk zone in 86.7% (26/30) of cases. Conclusion: Our findings suggest a high potential for LTN injury during US-guided C7 SNRB. The clear visualization of LTNs in the US images implies that US guidance may help avoid nerve damage and make the procedure safer. When performing US-guided C7 SNRB, physicians should take into consideration the location of the LTN.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Fragility Fractures: Top 50
Authors: Vuillemin Nicolas , Pape Hans-Christoph , Rommens Pol Maria , Lippuner Kurt , Siebenrock Klaus-Arno , Keel Marius Johann , Bastian Johannes Dominik
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives: The population is aging and fragility fractures are a research topic of steadily growing importance. Therefore, a systematic bibliometric review was performed to identify the 50 most cited articles in the field of fragility fractures analyzing their qualities and characteristics. Materials and Methods: From the Core Collection database in the Thomson Reuters Web of Knowledge, the most influential original articles with reference to fragility fractures were identified in February 2021 using a multistep approach. Year of publication, total number of citations, average number of citations per year since year of publication, affiliation of first and senior author, geographic origin of study population, keywords, and level of evidence were of interest. Results: Articles were published in 26 different journals between 1997 and 2020. The number of total citations per article ranged from 12 to 129 citations. In the majority of publications, orthopedic surgeons and traumatologists (66%) accounted for the first authorship, articles mostly originated from Europe (58%) and the keyword mostly used was “hip fracture”. In total, 38% of the articles were therapeutic studies level III followed by prognostic studies level I. Only two therapeutic studies with level I could be identified. Conclusions: This bibliometric review shows the growing interest in fragility fractures and raises awareness that more high quality and interdisciplinary studies are needed.
Antibiotic Resistant and Biofilm-Associated Escherichia coli Isolates from Diarrheic and Healthy Dogs
Authors: Karahutová Lívia , Mandelík René , Bujňáková Dobroslava
Published: June 2021

Bacteria isolated from companion animals are attracting concerns in a view of public health including antimicrobial resistance and biofilm development, both contributing to difficult-to-treat infections. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 18 antibiotics in Escherichia coli isolated from two groups of dogs (healthy and diarrheic). Isolates were classified into phylogroups, examined for the presence of resistance genes and biofilm-formation capacity. In healthy dogs, phylogenetic analysis showed that 47.37% and 34.22% of E. coli isolates belonged to commensal groups (A; B1) in contrast to diarrheic dogs; 42.2% of isolates were identified as the B2 phylogroup, and these E. coli bacteria formed a stronger biofilm. The results of healthy dogs showed higher MIC levels for tetracycline (32 mg/L), ampicillin (64 mg/L), ciprofloxacin (8 mg/L) and trimethoprim-sulphonamide (8 mg/L) compared to clinical breakpoints. The most detected gene encoding plasmid-mediated resistance to quinolones in the healthy group was qnrB, and in dogs with diarrhea, qnrS. The resistance genes were more frequently detected in healthy dogs. The presence of the integron int1 and the transposon tn3 increases the possibility of transfer of many different cassette-associated antibiotic-resistance genes. These results suggest that dogs could be a potential reservoir of resistance genes.
Natural Alkaloid Compounds as Inhibitors for Alpha-Synuclein Seeded Fibril Formation and Toxicity
Authors: Ghanem Simona S. , Fayed Hend S. , Zhu Qi , Lu Jia-Hong , Vaikath Nishant N. , Ponraj Janarthanan , Mansour Said , El-Agnaf Omar M. A.
Published: June 2021

The accumulation and aggregation of α-synuclein (α-syn) is the main pathologic event in Parkinson’s disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies, and multiple system atrophy. α-Syn-seeded fibril formation and its induced toxicity occupy a major role in PD pathogenesis. Thus, assessing compounds that inhibit this seeding process is considered a key towards the therapeutics of synucleinopathies. Using biophysical and biochemical techniques and seeding-dependent cell viability assays, we screened a total of nine natural compounds of alkaloid origin extracted from Chinese medicinal herbs. Of these compounds, synephrine, trigonelline, cytisine, harmine, koumine, peimisine, and hupehenine exhibited in vitro inhibition of α-syn-seeded fibril formation. Furthermore, using cell viability assays, six of these compounds inhibited α-syn-seeding-dependent toxicity. These six potent inhibitors of amyloid fibril formation and toxicity caused by the seeding process represent a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of PD and other synucleinopathies.
Chalcones as Promising Antitumor Agents by Targeting the p53 Pathway: An Overview and New Insights in Drug-Likeness
Authors: Moreira Joana , Almeida Joana , Saraiva Lucília , Cidade Honorina , Pinto Madalena
Published: June 2021

The p53 protein is one of the most important tumor suppressors that are frequently inactivated in cancer cells. This inactivation occurs either because the TP53 gene is mutated or deleted, or due to the p53 protein inhibition by endogenous negative regulators, particularly murine double minute (MDM)2. Therefore, the reestablishment of p53 activity has received great attention concerning the discovery of new cancer therapeutics. Chalcones are naturally occurring compounds widely described as potential antitumor agents through several mechanisms, including those involving the p53 pathway. The inhibitory effect of these compounds in the interaction between p53 and MDM2 has also been recognized, with this effect associated with binding to a subsite of the p53 binding cleft of MDM2. In this work, a literature review of natural and synthetic chalcones and their analogues potentially interfering with p53 pathway is presented. Moreover, in silico studies of drug-likeness of chalcones recognized as p53–MDM2 interaction inhibitors were accomplished considering molecular descriptors, biophysiochemical properties, and pharmacokinetic parameters in comparison with those from p53–MDM2 in clinical trials. With this review, we expect to guide the design of new and more effective chalcones targeting the p53 pathway.
σ2 Receptor and Its Role in Cancer with Focus on a MultiTarget Directed Ligand (MTDL) Approach
Authors: Abatematteo Francesca Serena , Niso Mauro , Lacivita Enza , Abate Carmen
Published: June 2021

Sigma-2 (σ2) is an endoplasmic receptor identified as the Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) transmembrane protein TMEM97. Despite its controversial identity, which was only recently solved, this protein has gained scientific interest because of its role in the proliferative status of cells; many tumor cells from different organs overexpress the σ2 receptor, and many σ2 ligands display cytotoxic actions in (resistant) cancer cells. These properties have shed light on the σ2 receptor as a potential druggable target to be bound/activated for the diagnosis or therapy of tumors. Additionally, diverse groups have shown how the σ2 receptor can be exploited for the targeted delivery of the anticancer drugs to tumors. As the cancer disease is a multifactorial pathology with multiple cell populations, a polypharmacological approach is very often needed. Instead of the simultaneous administration of different classes of drugs, the use of one molecule that interacts with diverse pharmacological targets, namely MultiTarget Directed Ligand (MTDL), is a promising and currently pursued strategy, that may overcome the pharmacokinetic problems associated with the administration of multiple molecules. This review aims to point out the progress regarding the σ2 ligands in the oncology field, with a focus on MTDLs directed towards σ2 receptors as promising weapons against (resistant) cancer diseases.
Natural Product Rottlerin Derivatives Targeting Quorum Sensing
Authors: Suresh Dittu , Sabir Shekh , Yu Tsz Tin , Wenholz Daniel , Das Theerthankar , Black David StC. , Kumar Naresh
Published: June 2021

Rottlerin is a natural product consisting of chalcone and flavonoid scaffolds, both of which have previously shown quorum sensing (QS) inhibition in various bacteria. Therefore, the unique rottlerin scaffold highlights great potential in inhibiting the QS system of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Rottlerin analogues were synthesised by modifications at its chalcone- and methylene-bridged acetophenone moieties. The synthesis of analogues was achieved using an established five-step synthetic strategy for chalcone derivatives and utilising the Mannich reaction at C6 of the chromene to construct morpholine analogues. Several pyranochromene chalcone derivatives were also generated using aldol conditions. All the synthetic rottlerin derivatives were screened for QS inhibition and growth inhibition against the related LasR QS system. The pyranochromene chalcone structures displayed high QS inhibitory activity with the most potent compounds, 8b and 8d, achieving QS inhibition of 49.4% and 40.6% and no effect on bacterial growth inhibition at 31 µM, respectively. Both compounds also displayed moderate biofilm inhibitory activity and reduced the production of pyocyanin.
Conventional and Organic Honeys as a Source of Water- and Ethanol-Soluble Molecules with Nutritional and Antioxidant Characteristics
Authors: Polak-Śliwińska Magdalena , Tańska Małgorzata
Published: June 2021

The benefits of natural honeybee products (e.g., honey, royal jelly, beeswax, propolis, beevenom and pollen) to the immune system are remarkable, and many of them are involved in the induction of antibody production, maturation of immune cells and stimulation of the immune system. The type of plants in the geographical area, climatic conditions and production method have a significantly influence on the nutritional quality of honey. However, this variability can influence consumer liking by the sensory attributes of the product. The aim of this work was to compare the most popular honeys from Poland in terms of nutritional value, organoleptic properties and antioxidant activity. In the study, five varieties of honey (honeydew, forest, buckwheat, linden and dandelion) from conventional and organic production methods were tested. The nutritional characteristics of honey samples included acidity, content of water, sugars, vitamin C, HMF and phenolics (total and flavonoids), while honey color, taste, aroma and consistency were investigated in the organoleptic characteristics. The antioxidant activity was determined in water- and ethanol-soluble honey extracts using DPPH and ORAC tests. The results showed that organoleptic and nutritional characteristics of popular Polish honeys differ significantly in relation to plant source and production method. The significant effect of honey variety on the content of HMF, saccharose and phenolics, as well as acidity and antioxidant capacity were noted. The impact of variety and variety × production method interaction was significant in the case of the content of vitamin C, glucose and fructose. A visible difference of buckwheat and forest honeys from other samples was observed. The highest content of total phenolics with antioxidant activity based on the SET mechanism was found in buckwheat honeys, while forest honeys were richer in flavonoids.
Will the Bacteria Survive in the CeO2 Nanozyme-H2O2 System?
Authors: Zhu Weisheng , Wang Luyao , Li Qisi , Jiao Lizhi , Yu Xiaokan , Gao Xiangfan , Qiu Hao , Zhang Zhijun , Bing Wei
Published: June 2021

As one of the nanostructures with enzyme-like activity, nanozymes have recently attracted extensive attention for their biomedical applications, especially for bacterial disinfection treatment. Nanozymes with high peroxidase activity are considered to be excellent candidates for building bacterial disinfection systems (nanozyme-H2O2), in which the nanozyme will promote the generation of ROS to kill bacteria based on the decomposition of H2O2. According to this criterion, a cerium oxide nanoparticle (Nanoceria, CeO2, a classical nanozyme with high peroxidase activity)-based nanozyme-H2O2 system would be very efficient for bacterial disinfection. However, CeO2 is a nanozyme with multiple enzyme-like activities. In addition to high peroxidase activity, CeO2 nanozymes also possess high superoxide dismutase activity and antioxidant activity, which can act as a ROS scavenger. Considering the fact that CeO2 nanozymes have both the activity to promote ROS production and the opposite activity for ROS scavenging, it is worth exploring which activity will play the dominating role in the CeO2-H2O2 system, as well as whether it will protect bacteria or produce an antibacterial effect. In this work, we focused on this discussion to unveil the role of CeO2 in the CeO2-H2O2 system, so that it can provide valuable knowledge for the design of a nanozyme-H2O2-based antibacterial system.
Efficient One-Pot Synthesis of 3,4-Dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-ones via a Three-Component Biginelli Reaction
Authors: Bosica Giovanna , Cachia Fiona , De Nittis Riccardo , Mariotti Nicole
Published: June 2021

Multicomponent reactions are considered to be of increasing importance as time progresses due to the economic and environmental advantages such strategies entail. The three-component Biginelli reaction involves the combination of an aldehyde, a β-ketoester and urea to produce 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-ones, also known as DHPMs. The synthesis of these products is highly important due to their myriad of medicinal properties, amongst them acting as calcium channel blockers and antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory agents. In this study, silicotungstic acid supported on Ambelyst-15 was used as a heterogeneous catalyst for the Biginelli reaction under solventless conditions. Electron-poor aromatic aldehydes gave the best results. Sterically hindered β-ketoesters resulted in lower reaction yields. The reaction was carried out under heterogeneous catalysis to allow easy recovery of the product from the reaction mixture and recycling of the catalyst. The heterogeneity of the reaction was confirmed by carrying out a hot filtration test.
The Reaction of Hydrogen Halides with Tetrahydroborate Anion and Hexahydro-closo-hexaborate Dianion
Authors: Golub Igor E. , Filippov Oleg A. , Belkova Natalia V. , Epstein Lina M. , Shubina Elena S.
Published: June 2021

The mechanism of the consecutive halogenation of the tetrahydroborate anion [BH4]− by hydrogen halides (HX, X = F, Cl, Br) and hexahydro-closo-hexaborate dianion [B6H6]2− by HCl via electrophile-induced nucleophilic substitution (EINS) was established by ab initio DFT calculations [M06/6-311++G(d,p) and wB97XD/6-311++G(d,p)] in acetonitrile (MeCN), taking into account non-specific solvent effects (SMD model). Successive substitution of H− by X− resulted in increased electron deficiency of borohydrides and changes in the character of boron atoms from nucleophilic to highly electrophilic. This, in turn, increased the tendency of the B–H bond to transfer a proton rather than a hydride ion. Thus, the regularities established suggested that it should be possible to carry out halogenation more selectively with the targeted synthesis of halogen derivatives with a low degree of substitution, by stabilization of H2 complex, or by carrying out a nucleophilic substitution of B–H bonds activated by interaction with Lewis acids (BL3).
Frequency-Dependent Sonochemical Processing of Silicon Surfaces in Tetrahydrofuran Studied by Surface Photovoltage Transients
Authors: Podolian Artem , Nadtochiy Andriy , Korotchenkov Oleg , Schlosser Viktor
Published: June 2021

The field of chemical and physical transformations induced by ultrasonic waves has shown steady progress during the past decades. There is a solid core of established results and some topics that are not thoroughly developed. The effect of varying ultrasonic frequency is among the most beneficial issues that require advances. In this work, the effect of sonication of Si wafers in tetrahydrofuran on the photovoltage performance was studied, with the specific goal of studying the influence of the varying frequency. The applied ultrasonic transducer design approach enables the construction of the transducer operating at about 400 kHz with a sufficient sonochemical efficiency. The measurements of the surface photovoltage (SPV) transients were performed on p-type Cz-Si(111) wafers. Sonication was done in tetrahydrofuran, methanol, and in their 3:1 mixture. When using tetrahydrofuran, the enhanced SPV signal (up to ≈80%) was observed due to increasing sonication frequency to 400 kHz. In turn, the signal was decreased down to ≈75% of the initial value when the frequency is lowered to 28 kHz. The addition of methanol suppressed this significant difference. It was implied that different decay processes with hydrogen decomposed from tetrahydrofuran could be attempted to explain the mechanism behind the observed frequency-dependent behavior.
Imaging and SERS Study of the Au Nanoparticles Interaction with HPV and Carcinogenic Cervical Tissues
Authors: Ceja-Fdez Andrea , Carriles Ramon , González-Yebra Ana Lilia , Vivero-Escoto Juan , de la Rosa Elder , López-Luke Tzarara
Published: June 2021

In this work, gold NPs were prepared by the Turkevich method, and their interaction with HPV and cancerous cervical tissues were studied by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, confocal and multiphoton microscopy and SERS. The SEM images confirmed the presence and localization of the gold NPs inside of the two kinds of tissues. The light absorption of the gold NPs was at 520 nm. However, it was possible to obtain two-photon imaging (red emission region) of the gold NPs inside of the tissue, exciting the samples at 900 nm, observing the morphology of the tissues. The infrared absorption was probably due to the aggregation of gold NPs inside the tissues. Therefore, through the interaction of gold nanoparticles with the HPV and cancerous cervical tissues, a surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) was obtained. As preliminary studies, having an average of 1000 Raman spectra per tissue, SERS signals showed changes between the HPV-infected and the carcinogenic tissues; these spectral signatures occurred mainly in the DNA bands, potentially offering a tool for the rapid screening of cancer.
Kinetic Study on Chlorophyll and Antioxidant Activity from Polyscias fruticosa (L.) Harms Leaves via Microwave-Assisted Extraction
Authors: Nguyen Thi-Thuy-Dung , Nguyen Quoc-Duy , Nguyen Thi-Van-Linh
Published: June 2021

Polyscias fruticosa (L.) leaves contain significant bioactive compounds with high antioxidant activity such as chlorophylls, total polyphenols, etc. but these have still been underutilized. In this study, the kinetics of chlorophyll and antioxidant activity extraction from P. fruticosa leaves by microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) were investigated. Microwave power was 300, 450, or 600 (W); the ratio of material/solvent varied from 1:40 to 1:80 (g/mL). In this study, the second-order kinetic model successfully predicted the change of chlorophyll and antioxidant activity during MAE. The increase of microwave power or/and the solvent amount increased saturated extraction efficiency and the extraction rate constant. However, the saturated concentration of chlorophyll and antioxidant activity increased with the increment of microwave power and the decrease in solvent amount.
Molecular Human Targets of Bioactive Alkaloid-Type Compounds from Tabernaemontana cymose Jacq.
Authors: Oliveros-Díaz Andrés , Olivero-Verbel Jesús , Pájaro-González Yina , Díaz-Castillo Fredyc
Published: June 2021

Alkaloids are a group of secondary metabolites that have been widely studied for the discovery of new drugs due to their properties on the central nervous system and their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer activities. Molecular docking was performed for 10 indole alkaloids identified in the ethanol extract of Tabernaemontana cymosa Jacq. with 951 human targets involved in different diseases. The results were analyzed through the KEGG and STRING databases, finding the most relevant physiological associations for alkaloids. The molecule 5-oxocoronaridine proved to be the most active molecule against human proteins (binding energy affinity average = −9.2 kcal/mol) and the analysis of the interactions between the affected proteins pointed to the PI3K/ Akt/mTOR signaling pathway as the main target. The above indicates that indole alkaloids from T. cymosa constitute a promising source for the search and development of new treatments against different types of cancer.
Rutin and Quercetin Decrease Cholesterol in HepG2 Cells but Not Plasma Cholesterol in Hamsters by Oral Administration
Authors: Liang Ning , Li Yuk-Man , He Zouyan , Hao Wangjun , Zhao Yimin , Liu Jianhui , Zhu Hanyue , Kwek Erika , Ma Ka-Ying , He Wen-Sen , Chen Zhen-Yu
Published: June 2021

Rutin (R) and quercetin (Q) are two widespread dietary flavonoids. Previous studies regarding the plasma cholesterol-lowering activity of R and Q generated inconsistent results. The present study was therefore carried out to investigate the effects of R and Q on cholesterol metabolism in both HepG2 cells and hypercholesterolemia hamsters. Results from HepG2 cell experiments demonstrate that both R and Q decreased cholesterol at doses of 5 and 10 µM. R and Q up-regulated both the mRNA and protein expression of sterol regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP2), low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), and liver X receptor alpha (LXRα). The immunofluorescence study revealed that R and Q increased the LDLR expression, while only Q improved LDL-C uptake in HepG2 cells. Results from hypercholesterolemia hamsters fed diets containing R (5.5 g/kg diet) and Q (2.5 g/kg diet) for 8 weeks demonstrate that both R and Q had no effect on plasma total cholesterol. In the liver, only Q reduced cholesterol significantly. The discrepancy between the in vitro and in vivo studies was probably due to a poor bioavailability of flavonoids in the intestine. It was therefore concluded that R and Q were effective in reducing cholesterol in HepG2 cells in vitro, whereas in vivo, the oral administration of the two flavonoids had little effect on plasma cholesterol in hamsters.
High Pressure Processing Impact on Alternariol and Aflatoxins of Grape Juice and Fruit Juice-Milk Based Beverages
Authors: Pallarés Noelia , Sebastià Albert , Martínez-Lucas Vicente , González-Angulo Mario , Barba Francisco J. , Berrada Houda , Ferrer Emilia
Published: June 2021

High-pressure processing (HPP) has emerged over the last 2 decades as a good alternative to traditional thermal treatment for food safety and shelf-life extension, supplying foods with similar characteristics to those of fresh products. Currently, HPP has also been proposed as a useful tool to reduce food contaminants, such as pesticides and mycotoxins. The aim of the present study is to explore the effect of HPP technology at 600 MPa during 5 min at room temperature on alternariol (AOH) and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) mycotoxins reduction in different juice models. The effect of HPP has also been compared with a thermal treatment performed at 90 °C during 21 s. For this, different juice models, orange juice/milk beverage, strawberry juice/milk beverage and grape juice, were prepared and spiked individually with AOH and AFB1 at a concentration of 100 µg/L. After HPP and thermal treatments, mycotoxins were extracted from treated samples and controls by dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) and determined by HPLC-MS/MS-IT. The results obtained revealed reduction percentages up to 24% for AFB1 and 37% for AOH. Comparing between different juice models, significant differences were observed for AFB1 residues in orange juice/milk versus strawberry juice/milk beverages after HPP treatment. Moreover, HPP resulted as more effective than thermal treatment, being an effective tool to incorporate to food industry in order to reach mycotoxins reductions.
Bioactives from Bee Products and Accompanying Extracellular Vesicles as Novel Bioactive Components for Wound Healing
Authors: Peršurić Željka , Pavelić Sandra Kraljević
Published: June 2021

In recent years, interest has surged among researchers to determine compounds from bee products such as honey, royal jelly, propolis and bee pollen, which are beneficial to human health. Mass spectrometry techniques have shown that bee products contain a number of proven health-promoting compounds but also revealed rather high diversity in the chemical composition of bee products depending on several factors, such as for example botanical sources and geographical origin. In the present paper, we present recent scientific advances in the field of major bioactive compounds from bee products and corresponding regenerative properties. We also discuss extracellular vesicles from bee products as a potential novel bioactive nutraceutical component. Extracellular vesicles are cell-derived membranous structures that show promising potential in various therapeutic areas. It has been extensively reported that the use of vesicles, which are naturally formed in plant and animal cells, as delivery agents have many advantages. Whether the use of extracellular vesicles from bee products represents a new solution for wound healing remains still to be elucidated. However, promising results in specific applications of the bee products in wound healing and tissue regenerative properties of extracellular vesicles provide a good rationale to further explore this idea.
Computational Insights on the Potential of Some NSAIDs for Treating COVID-19: Priority Set and Lead Optimization
Authors: Abo Elmaaty Ayman , Hamed Mohammed I. A. , Ismail Muhammad I. , B. Elkaeed Eslam , S. Abulkhair Hamada , Khattab Muhammad , Al-Karmalawy Ahmed A.
Published: June 2021

The discovery of drugs capable of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 is a priority for human beings due to the severity of the global health pandemic caused by COVID-19. To this end, repurposing of FDA-approved drugs such as NSAIDs against COVID-19 can provide therapeutic alternatives that could be utilized as an effective safe treatment for COVID-19. The anti-inflammatory activity of NSAIDs is also advantageous in the treatment of COVID-19, as it was found that SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for provoking inflammatory cytokine storms resulting in lung damage. In this study, 40 FDA-approved NSAIDs were evaluated through molecular docking against the main protease of SARS-CoV-2. Among the tested compounds, sulfinpyrazone 2, indomethacin 3, and auranofin 4 were proposed as potential antagonists of COVID-19 main protease. Molecular dynamics simulations were also carried out for the most promising members of the screened NSAID candidates (2, 3, and 4) to unravel the dynamic properties of NSAIDs at the target receptor. The conducted quantum mechanical study revealed that the hybrid functional B3PW91 provides a good description of the spatial parameters of auranofin 4. Interestingly, a promising structure–activity relationship (SAR) was concluded from our study that could help in the future design of potential SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitors with expected anti-inflammatory effects as well. NSAIDs may be used by medicinal chemists as lead compounds for the development of potent SARS-CoV-2 (Mpro) inhibitors. In addition, some NSAIDs can be selectively designated for treatment of inflammation resulting from COVID-19.
Preservative Effect of Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts of the Macroalga Bifurcaria bifurcata on the Quality of Chilled Hake (Merluccius merluccius)
Authors: Miranda José M. , Zhang Bin , Barros-Velázquez Jorge , Aubourg Santiago P.
Published: June 2021

This work addressed the preservative behaviour of different icing media containing extracts from the alga Bifurcaria bifurcata. A comparative study of the antimicrobial and antioxidant effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of this macroalga was carried out. Whole hake (Merluccius merluccius) pieces were stored in ice containing either kind of extract and analysed for quality changes throughout a 13-day storage period. A progressive loss of microbial and biochemical quality was detected in all batches as chilling time increased. A significant inhibitory effect (p < 0.05) on microbial activity could be observed as a result of including the aqueous (lowering of psychrotrophic and lipolytic counts and pH value) and ethanolic (lowering of psychrotrophic and lipolytic counts) extracts. Additionally, both kinds of extract led to a substantial inhibition (p < 0.05) in the lipid hydrolysis rate (formation of free fatty acids), greater in the case of the batch containing ethanolic extract. Concerning lipid oxidation, a similar inhibitory effect (p < 0.05) on the formation of secondary compounds (thiobarbituric acid substances) was noticed in fish specimens corresponding to both alga extracts; however, more (p < 0.05) peroxide formation was detected in fish corresponding to the ethanolic extract batch. A preservative effect can be concluded for both kinds of extract; this effect agrees with previous studies reporting the presence of hydrophilic and lipophilic bioactive compounds in B. bifurcata.
Modular Breath Analyzer (MBA): Introduction of a Breath Analyzer Platform Based on an Innovative and Unique, Modular eNose Concept for Breath Diagnostics and Utilization of Calibration Transfer Methods in Breath Analysis Studies
Authors: Jaeschke Carsten , Padilla Marta , Glöckler Johannes , Polaka Inese , Leja Martins , Veliks Viktors , Mitrovics Jan , Leja Marcis , Mizaikoff Boris
Published: June 2021

Exhaled breath analysis for early disease detection may provide a convenient method for painless and non-invasive diagnosis. In this work, a novel, compact and easy-to-use breath analyzer platform with a modular sensing chamber and direct breath sampling unit is presented. The developed analyzer system comprises a compact, low volume, temperature-controlled sensing chamber in three modules that can host any type of resistive gas sensor arrays. Furthermore, in this study three modular breath analyzers are explicitly tested for reproducibility in a real-life breath analysis experiment with several calibration transfer (CT) techniques using transfer samples from the experiment. The experiment consists of classifying breath samples from 15 subjects before and after eating a specific meal using three instruments. We investigate the possibility to transfer calibration models across instruments using transfer samples from the experiment under study, since representative samples of human breath at some conditions are difficult to simulate in a laboratory. For example, exhaled breath from subjects suffering from a disease for which the biomarkers are mostly unknown. Results show that many transfer samples of all the classes under study (in our case meal/no meal) are needed, although some CT methods present reasonably good results with only one class.
Cholesterol and Egg Intakes with Cardiometabolic and All-Cause Mortality among Chinese and Low-Income Black and White Americans
Authors: Pan Xiong-Fei , Yang Jae-Jeong , Lipworth Loren P. , Shu Xiao-Ou , Cai Hui , Steinwandel Mark D. , Blot William J. , Zheng Wei , Yu Danxia
Published: June 2021

We examined the associations of dietary cholesterol and egg intakes with cardiometabolic and all-cause mortality among Chinese and low-income Black and White Americans. Included were 47,789 Blacks, 20,360 Whites, and 134,280 Chinese aged 40–79 years at enrollment. Multivariable Cox models with restricted cubic splines were applied to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for mortality outcomes using intakes of 150 mg cholesterol/day and 1 egg/week as the references. Cholesterol intake showed a nonlinear association with increased all-cause mortality and a linear association with increased cardiometabolic mortality among Black Americans: HRs (95% CIs) associated with 300 and 600 mg/day vs. 150 mg/day were 1.07 (1.03–1.11) and 1.13 (1.05–1.21) for all-cause mortality (P-linearity = 0.04, P-nonlinearity = 0.002, and P-overall < 0.001) and 1.10 (1.03–1.16) and 1.21 (1.08–1.36) for cardiometabolic mortality (P-linearity = 0.007, P-nonlinearity = 0.07, and P-overall = 0.005). Null associations with all-cause or cardiometabolic mortality were noted for White Americans (P-linearity ≥ 0.13, P-nonlinearity ≥ 0.06, and P-overall ≥ 0.05 for both). Nonlinear inverse associations were observed among Chinese: HR (95% CI) for 300 vs. 150 mg/day was 0.94 (0.92–0.97) for all-cause mortality and 0.91 (0.87–0.95) for cardiometabolic mortality, but the inverse associations disappeared with cholesterol intake > 500 mg/day (P-linearity ≥ 0.12; P-nonlinearity ≤ 0.001; P-overall < 0.001 for both). Similarly, we observed a positive association of egg intake with all-cause mortality in Black Americans, but a null association in White Americans and a nonlinear inverse association in Chinese. In conclusion, the associations of cholesterol and egg intakes with cardiometabolic and all-cause mortality may differ across ethnicities who have different dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risk profiles. However, residual confounding remains possible.
Visceral Adiposity and Cancer: Role in Pathogenesis and Prognosis
Authors: Crudele Lucilla , Piccinin Elena , Moschetta Antonio
Published: June 2021

The prevalence of being overweight and obese has been expanded dramatically in recent years worldwide. Obesity usually occurs when the energetic introit overtakes energy expenditure from metabolic and physical activity, leading to fat accumulation mainly in the visceral depots. Excessive fat accumulation represents a risk factor for many chronic diseases, including cancer. Adiposity, chronic low-grade inflammation, and hyperinsulinemia are essential factors of obesity that also play a crucial role in tumor onset. In recent years, several strategies have been pointed toward boundary fat accumulation, thus limiting the burden of cancer attributable to obesity. While remodeling fat via adipocytes browning seems a tempting prospect, lifestyle interventions still represent the main pathway to prevent cancer and enhance the efficacy of treatments. Specifically, the Mediterranean Diet stands out as one of the best dietary approaches to curtail visceral adiposity and, therefore, cancer risk. In this Review, the close relationship between obesity and cancer has been investigated, highlighting the biological mechanisms at the basis of this link. Finally, strategies to remodel fat, including browning and lifestyle interventions, have been taken into consideration as a major perspective to limit excess body weight and tumor onset.
The Impact of Vegan Diet in the Prevention and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pollakova Daniela , Andreadi Aikaterini , Pacifici Francesca , Della-Morte David , Lauro Davide , Tubili Claudio
Published: June 2021

A protective effect of vegan diets on health outcomes has been observed in previous studies, but its impact on diabetes is still debated. The aim of this review is to assess the relationship between vegan diets and the risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D) along with its effect on glycemic control and diabetes-related complications. In accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta–Analyses) guidelines, Pubmed and Cochrane library databases were systematically searched for all relevant studies. Seven observational and eight randomized controlled (RCTs) studies were included. The methodological quality of studies was assessed using the National Institutes of Health quality assessment tool for observational cohort and cross-sectional studies and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for RCTs. We found that a vegan diet is associated with lower T2D prevalence or incidence and in T2D patients decreases high glucose values and improves glucose homeostasis, as reported from the majority of included studies. This approach seems to be comparable to other recommended healthful eating models, but as it may have potential adverse effects associated with the long-term exclusion of some nutrients, appropriate nutritional planning and surveillance are recommended, particularly in specific groups of diabetic patients such as frail elderly, adolescents, and pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Influence of Cement Thickness on the Polymerization Shrinkage Stress of Adhesively Cemented Composite Inlays: Photoelastic and Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Campaner Larissa Mendes , Alves Pinto Alana Barbosa , Demachkia Amir Mohidin , Paes-Junior Tarcísio José de Arruda , Pagani Clóvis , Borges Alexandre Luiz Souto
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of cement thickness on the strain and stresses resulting from the polymerization of resin cement using photoelasticity and Finite Element Analysis (FEA). For this study, twenty upper first premolars with inlay cavity preparation were constructed from photoelastic resin and restored with composite resin inlay. The samples were divided into two groups (n = 10) according to the film thickness of resin cement material. For Group 1, the film thickness was 100 μm; for Group 2, the film thickness was 400 μm. After polymerization of the cement, photoelastic analysis and finite element analysis (FEA) were performed. In the photoelastic analysis, Group 2 showed higher strain with the presence of second-order fringe even after 24 h. In Group 1, the formation of first order fringes was not observed, even after 24 h. In the FEA analysis, the greatest cusp deflection and tensile stress occurred in Group 2 (0.00026 mm and 0.305 MPa, respectively) due to the polymerization shrinkage in the lingual cusp compared to Group 1 (0.000107 mm and 0.210 MPa, respectively). It can be concluded that the thickness of the resin cement influences the cusp deflection, with the greater thickness of the cement layer, the greater stresses and deformations in the tooth structure occur.
The Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Lisinopril Mitigates Memory and Motor Deficits in a Drosophila Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Thomas Jimiece , Smith Haddon , Smith C. Aaron , Coward Lori , Gorman Gregory , De Luca Maria , Jumbo-Lucioni Patricia
Published: June 2021

The use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis) has been reported to reduce symptoms of cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Yet, the protective role of ACEis against AD symptoms is still controversial. Here, we aimed at determining whether oral treatment with the ACEi lisinopril has beneficial effects on cognitive and physical functions in a Drosophila melanogaster model of AD that overexpresses the human amyloid precursor protein and the human β-site APP-cleaving enzyme in neurons. We found a significant impairment in learning and memory as well as in climbing ability in young AD flies compared to control flies. After evaluation of the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism, we also found that AD flies displayed a >30-fold increase in the levels of the neurotoxic 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) in their heads. Furthermore, compared to control flies, AD flies had significantly higher levels of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) hydrogen peroxide in their muscle-enriched thoraces. Lisinopril significantly improved deficits in learning and memory and climbing ability in AD flies. The positive impact of lisinopril on physical function might be, in part, explained by a significant reduction in ROS levels in the thoraces of the lisinopril-fed AD flies. However, lisinopril did not affect the levels of 3-HK. In conclusion, our findings provide novel and relevant insights into the therapeutic potential of ACEis in a preclinical AD model.