bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TZAP Mutation Leads to Poor Prognosis of Patients with Breast Cancer †
Authors: Heo Yu-Ran , Lee Moo-Hyun , Kwon Sun-Young , Cho Jihyoung , Lee Jae-Ho
Published: November 2019

Background and Objectives: ZBTB48 is a telomere-associated factor that has been renamed as telomeric zinc finger-associated protein (TZAP). It binds preferentially to long telomeres, competing with telomeric repeat factors 1 and 2. Materials and Methods: We analyzed the TZAP mutation in 128 breast carcinomas (BCs). In addition, its association with telomere length was investigated. Results: The TZAP mutation (c.1272 G > A, L424L) was found in 7.8% (10/128) of the BCs and was associated with the N0 stage. BCs with the TZAP mutation had longer telomeres than those without this mutation. Survival analysis showed that the TZAP mutation resulted in poorer overall survival. Conclusions: These results suggest that the TZAP mutation is a possible prognostic marker in BC.
Fe3O4 Nanoparticle-Reinforced Magnesium Nanocomposites Processed via Disintegrated Melt Deposition and Turning-Induced Deformation Techniques
Authors: Johanes Michael , Tekumalla Sravya , Gupta Manoj
Published: November 2019

Magnesium nanocomposites, with nano-scale ceramic reinforcements, have attracted a great deal of attention for several engineering and biomedical applications in the recent past. In this work, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles, Fe3O4, with their unique magnetic properties and the ability of being bio-compatible and non-toxic, are reinforced to magnesium to form Mg/(1, 2, and 3 wt %) Fe3O4 nanocomposites. These nanocomposites were fabricated using the conventional disintegrated melt deposition (DMD) technique followed by extrusion. Further, the materials were also processed using the novel turning-induced-deformation technique where the chips from turning process are collected, cold compacted, and hot extruded. The materials processed via the two techniques were compared in terms of microstructure and properties. Overall, the Mg/Fe3O4 nanocomposites, processed via both routes, exhibited a superior property profile. Further, the turning-induced deformation method showed promising results in terms of improved properties of the nanocomposites and serves as a great route for the recycling of metallic materials.
Study of Nanometer-Sized Precipitation and Properties of Fire Resistant Hot-Rolled Steel
Authors: Xie Zhenjia , Song Zhendong , Chen Kun , Jiang Minghong , Tao Ya , Wang Xuemin , Shang Chengjia
Published: November 2019

Nanometer-sized precipitated carbides in a low carbon Ti-V-Mo bearing steel were obtained through hot rolling and air cooling and were investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The nanometer-sized interphase-precipitated carbides have been found to exhibit an average diameter of ~6.1 ± 2.7 nm, with an average spacing of ~24–34 nm. Yield strength of 578 ± 20 MPa and tensile strength of 813 ± 25 MPa were achieved with high elongation of 25.0 ± 0.5% at room temperature. The nanometer-sized precipitation exhibited high stability after annealing at high temperatures of 600 °C and 650 °C for 3 h. Average diameters of carbides were statistically measured to be ~6.9 ± 2.3 nm and 8.4 ± 2.6 nm after tempering at high temperatures of 600 °C and 650 °C, respectively. The micro-hardness was ~263–268 HV0.1 after high temperature tempering, which was similar to the hot-rolled sample (273 HV0.1), and yield strength of 325 ± 13 MPa and 278 ± 4 MPa was achieved at elevated temperatures of 600 °C and 650 °C, respectively. The significant decrease of yield strength at 650 °C was attributed to the large decrease in shear modulus.
Construction of Cellular Substructure in Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Wang Yafei , Zhang Chenglu , Yu Chenfan , Xing Leilei , Li Kailun , Chen Jinhan , Ma Jing , Liu Wei , Shen Zhijian
Published: November 2019

Cellular substructure has been widely observed in the sample fabricated by laser powder bed fusion, while its growth direction and the crystallographic orientation have seldom been studied. This research tries to build a general model to construct the substructure from its two-dimensional morphology. All the three Bunge Euler angles to specify a unique growth direction are determined, and the crystallographic orientation corresponding to the growth direction is also obtained. Based on the crystallographic orientation, the substructure in the single track of austenitic stainless steel 316L is distinguished between the cell-like dendrite and the cell. It is found that, with the increase of scanning velocity, the substructure transits from cell-like dendrite to cell. When the power is 200 W, the critical growth rate of the transition in the single track can be around 0.31 ms−1.
Preparing Polypyrrole-Coated Stretchable Textile via Low-Temperature Interfacial Polymerization for Highly Sensitive Strain Sensor
Authors: Chen Xiaodie , Li Bintian , Qiao Yan , Lu Zhisong
Published: November 2019

The stretchable sensor has been considered as the most important component in a wearable device. However, it is still a great challenge to develop a highly sensitive textile-based strain sensor with good flexibility, excellent skin affinity, and large dynamic range. Herein, polypyrrole (PPy) was immobilized on a stretchable textile knitted by polyester and spandex via low-temperature interfacial polymerization to prepare a conductive strain sensor for human motion and respiration measurements. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, and thermal gravimetric data verify that a thin layer of PPy has been successfully coated on the textile with a high density and very uniform distribution. The resistance of the as-prepared textile is 21.25 Ω/cm2 and the PPy-coated textile could be used as an electric conductor to light up a LED lamp. Moreover, the textile could tolerate folding at an angle of 180° and 500 times of bending-twisting cycles without significant changes on its resistance. A negative correlation between the resistance change and the applied strain is observed for the textile-based sensor in the strain ranging from 0 to 71% with the gauge factor of −0.46. After more than 200 cycles of stretching-releasing under the strain of 26%, there is no obvious alteration on the sensing responses. The sensors were attached on volunteers’ body or clothes for the real-time measurement of human motions and respiration, demonstrating that the textile-based sensor could sensitively detect finger, elbow, and knee bending and differentiate deep, normal, and fast breath. This work may provide an approach to uniform and dense coating conductive polymers on textiles for highly sensitive and stretchable sensors, which possess great potentials in practical applications for real-time monitoring human motions and physiological signs.
Engineering a Bi-Conical Microchip as Vascular Stenosis Model
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Jianchun , Wan Wei , Chen Chengmin , Wang Xueying , Zhao Pei , Hou Yanjin , Tian Hanmei , Wang Jianmei , Nandakumar Krishnaswamy , Wang Liqiu
Published: November 2019

Vascular stenosis is always associated with hemodynamic changes, especially shear stress alterations. Herein, bi-conical shaped microvessels were developed through flexibly and precisely controlled templated methods for hydrogel blood-vessel-like microchip. The blood-vessel-like microvessels demonstrated tunable dimensions, perfusable ability, and good cytocompatibility. The microchips showed blood-vessel-like lumens through fine embeddedness of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) on the interior surface of hydrogel microchannels, which closely reproduced the morphology and functions of human blood vessels. In the gradual narrowing region of bi-conical shape, fluid flow generated wall shear stress, which caused cell morphology variations. Wall shear rates at the gradual narrowing region were simulated by FLUENT software. The results showed that our microchannels qualified for performance as a vascular stenosis-like model in evaluating blood hydrodynamics. In general, our blood-vessel-on-a-chip could offer potential applications in the prevention, diagnosis, and therapy of arterial thrombosis.
A Robust Fully-Integrated Digital-Output Inductive CMOS-MEMS Accelerometer with Improved Inductor Quality Factor
Authors: Chiu Yi , Liu Hsuan-Wu , Hong Hao-Chiao
Published: November 2019

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and characterization of an inductive complementary metal oxide semiconductor micro-electromechanical systems (CMOS-MEMS) accelerometer with on-chip digital output based on LC oscillators. While most MEMS accelerometers employ capacitive detection schemes, the proposed inductive detection scheme is less susceptible to the stress-induced structural curling and deformation that are commonly seen in CMOS-MEMS devices. Oscillator-based frequency readout does not need analog to digital conversion and thus can simplify the overall system design. In this paper, a high-Q CMOS inductor was connected in series with the low-Q MEMS sensing inductor to improve its quality factor. Measurement results showed the proposed device had an offset frequency of 85.5 MHz, sensitivity of 41.6 kHz/g, noise floor of 8.2 mg/√Hz, bias instability of 0.94 kHz (11 ppm) at an average time of 2.16 s, and nonlinearity of 1.5% full-scale.
Multiple Lineages of Usutu Virus (Flaviviridae, Flavivirus) in Blackbirds (Turdus merula) and Mosquitoes (Culex pipiens, Cx. modestus) in the Czech Republic (2016–2019)
Authors: Hönig Vaclav , Palus Martin , Kaspar Tomas , Zemanova Marta , Majerova Karolina , Hofmannova Lada , Papezik Petr , Sikutova Silvie , Rettich Frantisek , Hubalek Zdenek , Rudolf Ivo , Votypka Jan , Modry David , Ruzek Daniel
Published: November 2019

Usutu virus (USUV) is a flavivirus (Flaviviridae: Flavivirus) of an African origin transmitted among its natural hosts (diverse species of birds) by mosquitoes. The virus was introduced multiple times to Europe where it caused mortality of blackbirds (Turdus merula) and certain other susceptible species of birds. In this study, we report detection of USUV RNA in blackbirds, Culex pipiens and Cx. modestus mosquitoes in the Czech Republic, and isolation of 10 new Czech USUV strains from carcasses of blackbirds in cell culture. Multiple lineages (Europe 1, 2 and Africa 3) of USUV were found in blackbirds and mosquitoes in the southeastern part of the country. A single USUV lineage (Europe 3) was found in Prague and was likely associated with increased mortalities in the local blackbird population seen in this area in 2018. USUV genomic RNA (lineage Europe 2) was detected in a pool of Cx. pipiens mosquitoes from South Bohemia (southern part of the country), where no major mortality of birds has been reported so far, and no flavivirus RNA has been found in randomly sampled cadavers of blackbirds. The obtained data contributes to our knowledge about USUV genetic variability, distribution and spread in Central Europe.
A Review of Fish Vaccine Development Strategies: Conventional Methods and Modern Biotechnological Approaches
Authors: Ma Jie , Bruce Timothy J. , Jones Evan M. , Cain Kenneth D.
Published: November 2019

Fish immunization has been carried out for over 50 years and is generally accepted as an effective method for preventing a wide range of bacterial and viral diseases. Vaccination efforts contribute to environmental, social, and economic sustainability in global aquaculture. Most licensed fish vaccines have traditionally been inactivated microorganisms that were formulated with adjuvants and delivered through immersion or injection routes. Live vaccines are more efficacious, as they mimic natural pathogen infection and generate a strong antibody response, thus having a greater potential to be administered via oral or immersion routes. Modern vaccine technology has targeted specific pathogen components, and vaccines developed using such approaches may include subunit, or recombinant, DNA/RNA particle vaccines. These advanced technologies have been developed globally and appear to induce greater levels of immunity than traditional fish vaccines. Advanced technologies have shown great promise for the future of aquaculture vaccines and will provide health benefits and enhanced economic potential for producers. This review describes the use of conventional aquaculture vaccines and provides an overview of current molecular approaches and strategies that are promising for new aquaculture vaccine development.
Radiosynthesis and Biological Investigation of a Novel Fluorine-18 Labeled Benzoimidazotriazine-Based Radioligand for the Imaging of Phosphodiesterase 2A with Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Ritawidya Rien , Wenzel Barbara , Teodoro Rodrigo , Toussaint Magali , Kranz Mathias , Deuther-Conrad Winnie , Dukic-Stefanovic Sladjana , Ludwig Friedrich-Alexander , Scheunemann Matthias , Brust Peter
Published: November 2019

A specific radioligand for the imaging of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase 2A (PDE2A) via positron emission tomography (PET) would be helpful for research on the physiology and disease-related changes in the expression of this enzyme in the brain. In this report, the radiosynthesis of a novel PDE2A radioligand and the subsequent biological evaluation were described. Our prospective compound 1-(2-chloro-5-methoxy phenyl)-8-(2-fluoropyridin-4-yl)-3- methylbenzo[e]imidazo[5,1-c][1,2,4]triazine, benzoimidazotriazine (BIT1) (IC50 PDE2A = 3.33 nM; 16-fold selectivity over PDE10A) was fluorine-18 labeled via aromatic nucleophilic substitution of the corresponding nitro precursor using the K[18F]F-K2.2.2-carbonate complex system. The new radioligand [18F]BIT1 was obtained with a high radiochemical yield (54 ± 2%, n = 3), a high radiochemical purity (≥99%), and high molar activities (155–175 GBq/μmol, n = 3). In vitro autoradiography on pig brain cryosections exhibited a heterogeneous spatial distribution of [18F]BIT1 corresponding to the known pattern of expression of PDE2A. The investigation of in vivo metabolism of [18F]BIT1 in a mouse revealed sufficient metabolic stability. PET studies in mouse exhibited a moderate brain uptake of [18F]BIT1 with a maximum standardized uptake value of ~0.7 at 5 min p.i. However, in vivo blocking studies revealed a non-target specific binding of [18F]BIT1. Therefore, further structural modifications are needed to improve target selectivity.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Phosphorylated Radix Cyathulae officinalis Polysaccharides in Immunosuppressed Mice
Authors: Feng Haibo , Fan Jing , Lin Lang , Liu Yunjie , Chai Dongkun , Yang Jie
Published: November 2019

This research aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of phosphorylated Radix Cyathulae officinalis Kuan polysaccharides (pRCPS) in immunosuppressed mice, improving their cellular and humoral immune function. Our results showed that pRCPS increased serum immunoglobulin (IgG, IgA, IgM) concentrations significantly, enhanced splenocyte proliferation, and the thymus and spleen indices. pRCPS also promoted phagocytosis in peritoneal macrophages and enhanced cytokine (IFN-γ, IL-2, -4, -5, -6, and -10) serum levels. Importantly, pRCPS increased the proportions of selected T cell subpopulations (CD3+, CD4+, and the CD4+ to CD8+ ratio). Our results revealed that phosphorylation of the polysaccharides promoted their immune-enhancing effects. Thus, pRCPS can enhance cellular and humoral immunity and could be used as an immune-enhancing agent to overcome cyclophosphamide (CY)-induced immunosuppression.
Regulation of MicroRNA-155 and Its Related Genes Expression by Inositol Hexaphosphate in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Kapral Małgorzata , Wawszczyk Joanna , Węglarz Ludmiła
Published: November 2019

Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6), a natural dietary component, has been found as an antitumor agent by stimulating apoptosis and inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, their migration, and metastasis in diverse cancers including colon cancer. However, molecular mechanisms of its action have not been well understood. In recent years, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to play important roles in a broad range of biologic processes, such as cell growth, proliferation, apoptosis, or autophagy. These small noncoding molecules regulate post-transcriptional expression of targets genes via degradation of transcript or inhibition of protein synthesis. Aberrant expression and/or dysregulation of miRNAs have been characterized during tumor development and progression, thus, they are potential molecular targets for cancer prevention. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of IP6 on the miRNAs expression profile in Caco-2 colon cancer cells. 84 miRNAs were analyzed in Caco-2 cells treated with 2.5 mM and 5 mM IP6 by the use of PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) array. The effect of 5 mM IP6 on selected potential miR-155 targets was determined by real-time (RT)-qPCR and ELISA (quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay )method. The results indicated alteration in the specific 10 miRNA expression in human colon cancer cells following their treatment with 5 mM IP6. It down-regulated 8 miRNAs (miR-155, miR-210, miR-144, miR-194, miR-26b, miR-126, miR-302c, and miR-29a) and up-regulated 2 miRNAs (miR-223 and miR-196b). In silico analysis revealed that FOXO3a, HIF-1α, and ELK3 mRNAs are those of predicted targets of miR-155. IP6 at the concentration of 5 mM markedly induced FOXO3a and HIF-1a genes’ expression at both mRNA and protein level and decreased the amount of ELK3 mRNA as well as protein concentration in comparison to the control. In conclusion, the present study indicates that one of the mechanisms of antitumor potential of IP6 is down-regulation of the miR-155 expression in human colon cancer cells. Moreover, the expression of genes that are targeted by miRNA are also modulated by IP6.
Passivating Surface States on Water Splitting Cuprous Oxide Photocatalyst with Bismuth Decoration
Authors: Huang Yuhong , Yuan Hongkuan , Chen Hong
Published: November 2019

To enhance the visible light photocatalystic activity of Cu 2 O(100) surface, we performed first-principles calculations on the structural, electronic and optical properties of a bismuth (Bi)-decorated Cu 2 O(100) surface (Bi@Cu 2 O(100)). It is shown that the Bi prefer to be loaded to the hollow sites among four surface oxygen atoms and tend to individual dispersion instead of aggregating on the surface due to the lowest formation energy and larger distance between two Bi atoms at the surface than the Bi clusters; the coverage of around 0.25 monolayer Bi atoms can effectively eliminate the surface states and modify the band edges to satisfy the angular momentum selection rules for light excited transition of electrons, and the loaded Bi atoms contribute to the separation of photogenerated electron-holes. The relative positions between the band edges and the redox potentials are suitable for photocatalytic hydrogen production from the redox water, and moreover, the optical absorption spectrum indicates a positive response of the Bi 0 . 25 @Cu 2 O(100) to visible light, implying that the Bi 0 . 25 @Cu 2 O(100) is a promising visible light photocatalyst.
A Molecular Electron Density Theory Study of the Synthesis of Spirobipyrazolines through the Domino Reaction of Nitrilimines with Allenoates
Authors: Domingo Luis R. , Ghodsi Fatemeh , Ríos-Gutiérrez Mar
Published: November 2019

The reaction of diphenyl nitrilimine (NI) with methyl 1-methyl-allenoate yielding a spirobipyrazoline has been studied within molecular electron density theory (MEDT) at the MPWB1K/6-311G(d) computational level in dichloromethane. This reaction is a domino process that comprises two consecutive 32CA reactions with the formation of a pyrazoline intermediate. Analysis of the relative Gibbs free energies indicates that both 32CA reactions are highly regioselective, the first one being also completely chemoselective, in agreement with the experimental outcomes. The geometries of the TSs indicate that they are associated to asynchronous bond formation processes in which the shorter distance involves the C1 carbon of diphenyl NI. Despite the zwitterionic structure of diphenyl NI, the appearance of a pseudoradical structure at the beginning of the reaction path, with a very low energy cost, suggests that the 32CA reaction between diphenyl NI, a strong nucleophile, and the allenoate, a moderate electrophile, should be mechanistically considered on the borderline between pmr-type and cb-type 32CA reactions, somewhat closer to the latter.
Spirocyclic Motifs in Natural Products
Authors: Chupakhin Evgeny , Babich Olga , Prosekov Alexander , Asyakina Lyudmila , Krasavin Mikhail
Published: November 2019

Spirocyclic motifs are emerging privileged structures for drug discovery. They are also omnipresent in the natural products domain. However, until today, no attempt to analyze the structural diversity of various spirocyclic motifs occurring in natural products and their relative populations with unique compounds reported in the literature has been undertaken. This review aims to fill that void and analyze the diversity of structurally unique natural products containing spirocyclic moieties of various sizes.
Arginine-Induced Self-Assembly of Protoporphyrin to Obtain Effective Photocatalysts in Aqueous Media Under Visible Light
Authors: Aljabri Mahmood D. , Gosavi Nilesh M. , Jones Lathe A. , Morajkar Pranay P. , La Duong D. , Bhosale Sheshanath V.
Published: November 2019

The fabrication of controlled supramolecular nanostructures via self-assembly of protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) was studied with enantiomerically pure l-arginine and d-arginine, and we have shown that stoichiometry controlled the morphology formed. The nanostructure morphology was mainly influenced by the delicate balance of π-π stacking interactions between PPIX cores, as well as H-bonding between the deprotonated acidic head group of PPIX with the guanidine head group of arginine. PPIX self-assembled with l-/d-arginine to create rose-like nanoflower structures for four equivalents of arginine that were 5–10 μm in length and 1–4 μm diameter. We employed UV-vis, fluorescence spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) techniques to characterize the resulting self-assembled nanostructures. Furthermore, we investigated the catalytic activity of PPIX and arginine co-assembled materials. The fabricated PPIX–arginine nanostructure showed high enhancement of photocatalytic activity through degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) with a decrease in dye concentration of around 78–80% under simulated visible radiation.
Carnosic Acid Attenuates Cadmium Induced Nephrotoxicity by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress, Promoting Nrf2/HO-1 Signalling and Impairing TGF-β1/Smad/Collagen IV Signalling
Authors: Das Sonjit , Dewanjee Saikat , Dua Tarun K. , Joardar Swarnalata , Chakraborty Pratik , Bhowmick Shovonlal , Saha Achintya , Bhattacharjee Simanta , De Feo Vincenzo
Published: November 2019

Cadmium (Cd) imparts nephrotoxicity via triggering oxidative stress and pathological signal transductions in renal cells. The present study was performed to explore the protective mechanism of carnosic acid (CA), a naturally occurring antioxidant compound, against cadmium chloride (CdCl2)-provoked nephrotoxicity employing suitable in vitro and in vivo assays. CA (5 µM) exhibited an anti-apoptotic effect against CdCl2 (40 µM) in normal kidney epithelial (NKE) cells evidenced from cell viability, image, and flow cytometry assays. In this study, CdCl2 treatment enhanced oxidative stress by triggering free radical production, suppressing the endogenous redox defence system, and inhibiting nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation in NKE cells and mouse kidneys. Moreover, CdCl2 treatment significantly endorsed apoptosis and fibrosis via activation of apoptotic and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (Smad)/collagen IV signalling pathways, respectively. In contrast, CA treatment significantly attenuated Cd-provoked nephrotoxicity via inhibiting free radicals, endorsing redox defence, suppressing apoptosis, and inhibiting fibrosis in renal cells in both in vitro and in vivo systems. In addition, CA treatment significantly (p < 0.05–0.01) restored blood and urine parameters to near-normal levels in mice. Histological findings further confirmed the protective role of CA against Cd-mediated nephrotoxicity. Molecular docking predicted possible interactions between CA and Nrf2/TGF-β1/Smad/collagen IV. Hence, CA was found to be a potential therapeutic agent to treat Cd-mediated nephrotoxicity.
Curcumin Nicotinate Selectively Induces Cancer Cell Apoptosis and Cycle Arrest through a P53-Mediated Mechanism
Authors: He Ying-chun , He Lan , Khoshaba Ramina , Lu Fang-guo , Cai Chuan , Zhou Fang-liang , Liao Duan-fang , Cao Deliang
Published: November 2019

Curcumin is an anticancer agent, but adverse effects and low bioavailability are its main drawbacks, which drives efforts in chemical modifications of curcumin. This study evaluated antiproliferative activity and cancer cell selectivity of a curcumin derivative, curcumin nicotinate (CN), in which two niacin molecules were introduced. Our data showed that CN effectively inhibited proliferation and clonogenic growth of colon (HCT116), breast (MCF-7) and nasopharyngeal (CNE2, 5-8F and 6-10B) cancer cells with IC50 at 27.7 μM, 73.4 μM, 64.7 μM, 46.3 μM, and 31.2 μM, respectively. In cancer cells, CN induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase through a p53-mediated mechanism, where p53 was activated, p21 and pro-apoptotic proteins Bid and Bak were upregulated, and PARP was cleaved. In non-transformed human mammary epithelial cells MCF10A, CN at 50 µM had no cytotoxicity and p53 was not activated, but curcumin at 12.5 µM activated p53 and p21 and inhibited MCF10A cell growth. These data suggest that CN inhibits cell growth and proliferation through p53-mediated apoptosis and cell cycle arrest with cancer cell selectivity.
Key-Marker Volatile Compounds in Aromatic Rice (Oryza sativa) Grains: An HS-SPME Extraction Method Combined with GC×GC-TOFMS
Authors: Setyaningsih Widiastuti , Majchrzak Tomasz , Dymerski Tomasz , Namieśnik Jacek , Palma Miguel
Published: November 2019

The aroma of rice essentially contributes to the quality of rice grains. For some varieties, their aroma properties really drive consumer preferences. In this paper, using a dynamic headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) system coupled to a two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) using a time-of-flight mass spectrometric detector (TOFMS) and multivariate analysis, the volatile compounds of aromatic and non-aromatic rice grains were contrasted to define some chemical markers. Fifty-one volatile compounds were selected for principal component analysis resulting in eight key-marker volatile compounds (i.e., pentanal, hexanal, 2-pentyl-furan, 2,4-nonadienal, pyridine, 1-octen-3-ol and (E)-2-octenal) as responsible for the differences between aromatic and non-aromatic rice varieties. The factors that are most likely to affect the HS-SPME efficiency for the aforementioned key-marker compounds were evaluated using a 2 I I I 5 − 2 fractional factorial design in conjunction with multi-response optimisation. The method precision values, expressed as % of coefficient of variation (CV), were ranging from 1.91% to 26.90% for repeatability (n = 9) and 7.32% to 37.36% for intermediate precision (n = 3 × 3). Furthermore, the method was successfully applied to evaluate the volatile compounds of rice varieties from some Asian countries.
Current Trends on Seaweeds: Looking at Chemical Composition, Phytopharmacology, and Cosmetic Applications
Authors: Salehi Bahare , Sharifi-Rad Javad , Seca Ana M. L. , Pinto Diana C. G. A. , Michalak Izabela , Trincone Antonio , Mishra Abhay Prakash , Nigam Manisha , Zam Wissam , Martins Natália
Published: November 2019

Seaweeds have received huge interest in recent years given their promising potentialities. Their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, hypolipemic, and anticoagulant effects are among the most renowned and studied bioactivities so far, and these effects have been increasingly associated with their content and richness in both primary and secondary metabolites. Although primary metabolites have a pivotal importance such as their content in polysaccharides (fucoidans, agars, carragenans, ulvans, alginates, and laminarin), recent data have shown that the content in some secondary metabolites largely determines the effective bioactive potential of seaweeds. Among these secondary metabolites, phenolic compounds feature prominently. The present review provides the most remarkable insights into seaweed research, specifically addressing its chemical composition, phytopharmacology, and cosmetic applications.
Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Conditions Followed by Solid Phase Extraction Fractionation from Orthosiphon stamineus Benth (Lamiace) Leaves for Antiproliferative Effect on Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Suhaimi Siti Hasyimah , Hasham Rosnani , Hafiz Idris Mohamad Khairul , Ismail Hassan Fahmi , Mohd Ariffin Nor Hazwani , Abdul Majid Fadzilah Adibah
Published: November 2019

Primarily, optimization of ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) conditions of Orthospihon stamineus was evaluated and verified using a central composite design (CCD) based on three factors including extraction time (minutes), ultrasound amplitude (A), and solvent concentration (%). The response surface methodology (RSM) was performed to develop an extraction method with maximum yield and high rosmarinic acid content. The optimal UAE conditions were as follows: extraction time 21 min, ultrasound amplitudes 62 A, and solvent composition 70% ethanol in water. The crude extract was further fractionated using solid-phase extraction (SPE), where six sequential fractions that varied in polarity (0–100% Acetonitrile in water) were obtained. Next, the six fractions were evaluated for their antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. This study found that Fraction 2 (F2) contained the highest rosmarinic acid content and showed the strongest antioxidant activity. Additionally, F2 showed an anti-proliferative effect against prostate cancer (DU145) with no harmful effect on normal cells.
Application of Polyphenol-Loaded Nanoparticles in Food Industry
Authors: Milinčić Danijel D. , Popović Dušanka A. , Lević Steva M. , Kostić Aleksandar Ž. , Tešić Živoslav Lj. , Nedović Viktor A. , Pešić Mirjana B.
Published: November 2019

Nanotechnology is an emerging field of science, and nanotechnological concepts have been intensively studied for potential applications in the food industry. Nanoparticles (with dimensions ranging from one to several hundred nanometers) have specific characteristics and better functionality, thanks to their size and other physicochemical properties. Polyphenols are recognized as active compounds that have several putative beneficial properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activity. However, the use of polyphenols as functional food ingredients faces numerous challenges, such as their poor stability, solubility, and bioavailability. These difficulties could be solved relatively easily by the application of encapsulation. The objective of this review is to present the most recent accomplishments in the usage of polyphenol-loaded nanoparticles in food science. Nanoparticles loaded with polyphenols and their applications as active ingredients for improving physicochemical and functional properties of food, or as components of active packaging materials, were critically reviewed. Potential adverse effects of polyphenol-loaded nanomaterials are also discussed.
Heteroepitaxial Growth of High-Quality and Crack-Free AlN Film on Sapphire Substrate with Nanometer-Scale-Thick AlN Nucleation Layer for AlGaN-Based Deep Ultraviolet Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zhao Jie , Hu Hongpo , Lei Yu , Wan Hui , Gong Liyan , Zhou Shengjun
Published: November 2019

High-quality and crack-free aluminum nitride (AlN) film on sapphire substrate is the foundation for high-efficiency aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN)-based deep ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (DUV LEDs). We reported the growth of high-quality and crack-free AlN film on sapphire substrate with a nanometer-scale-thick AlN nucleation layer (NL). Three kinds of nanometer-scale-thick AlN NLs, including in situ low-temperature AlN (LT-AlN) NL, oxygen-undoped ex situ sputtered AlN NL, and oxygen-doped ex situ sputtered AlN NL, were prepared for epitaxial growth of AlN films on sapphire substrates. The influence of nanoscale AlN NL thickness on the optical transmittance, strain state, surface morphology, and threading dislocation (TD) density of the grown AlN film on sapphire substrate were carefully investigated. The average optical transmittance of AlN film on sapphire substrate with oxygen-doped sputtered AlN NL was higher than that of AlN films on sapphire substrates with LT-AlN NL and oxygen-undoped sputtered AlN NL in the 200–270 nm wavelength region. However, the AlN film on sapphire substrate with oxygen-undoped sputtered AlN NL had the lowest TD density among AlN films on sapphire substrates. The AlN film on sapphire substrate with the optimum thickness of sputtered AlN NL showed weak tensile stress, a crack-free surface, and low TD density. Furthermore, a 270-nm AlGaN-based DUV LED was grown on the high-quality and crack-free AlN film. We believe that our results offer a promising and practical route for obtaining high-quality and crack-free AlN film for DUV LED.
V3S4 Nanosheets Anchored on N, S Co-Doped Graphene with Pseudocapacitive Effect for Fast and Durable Lithium Storage
Authors: Wu Naiteng , Miao Di , Zhou Xinliang , Zhang Lilei , Liu Guilong , Guo Donglei , Liu Xianming
Published: November 2019

Construction of a suitable hybrid structure has been considered an important approach to address the defects of metal sulfide anode materials. V3S4 nanosheets anchored on an N, S co-coped graphene (VS/NSG) aerogel were successfully fabricated by an efficient self-assembled strategy. During the heat treatment process, decomposition, sulfuration and N, S co-doping occurred. This hybrid structure was not only endowed with an enhanced capability to buffer the volume expansion, but also improved electron conductivity as a result of the conductive network that had been constructed. The dominating pseudocapacitive contribution (57.78% at 1 mV s−1) enhanced the electrochemical performance effectively. When serving as anode material for lithium ion batteries, VS/NSG exhibits excellent lithium storage properties, including high rate capacity (480 and 330 mAh g−1 at 5 and 10 A g−1, respectively) and stable cyclic performance (692 mAh g−1 after 400 cycles at 2 A g−1).
Sub-Chronic Consumption of Dark Chocolate Enhances Cognitive Function and Releases Nerve Growth Factors: A Parallel-Group Randomized Trial
Authors: Sumiyoshi Eri , Matsuzaki Kentaro , Sugimoto Naotoshi , Tanabe Yoko , Hara Toshiko , Katakura Masanori , Miyamoto Mayumi , Mishima Seiji , Shido Osamu
Published: November 2019

Previous research has shown that habitual chocolate intake is related to cognitive performance and that frequent chocolate consumption is significantly associated with improved memory. However, little is known about the effects of the subchronic consumption of dark chocolate (DC) on cognitive function and neurotrophins. Eighteen healthy young subjects (both sexes; 20–31 years old) were randomly divided into two groups: a DC intake group (n = 10) and a cacao-free white chocolate (WC) intake group (n = 8). The subjects then consumed chocolate daily for 30 days. Blood samples were taken to measure plasma levels of theobromine (a methylxanthine most often present in DC), nerve growth factor (NGF), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and to analyze hemodynamic parameters. Cognitive function was assessed using a modified Stroop color word test and digital cancellation test. Prefrontal cerebral blood flow was measured during the tests. DC consumption increased the NGF and theobromine levels in plasma, enhancing cognitive function performance in both tests. Interestingly, the DC-mediated enhancement of cognitive function was observed three weeks after the end of chocolate intake. WC consumption did not affect NGF and theobromine levels or cognitive performance. These results suggest that DC consumption has beneficial effects on human health by enhancing cognitive function.
Definition of the Traditional Mexican Diet and Its Role in Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Valerino-Perea Selene , Lara-Castor Laura , Armstrong Miranda Elaine Glynis , Papadaki Angeliki
Published: November 2019

Promoting traditional diets could potentially reduce the current high rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) globally. While the traditional Mexican diet (TMexD) could be specifically promoted in Mexico, a concise definition of the TMexD and evidence of its association with NCDs are needed before its promotion. To evaluate what constitutes this diet pattern, we aimed to systematically review, for the first time, how the TMexD has been described in the literature to date. A secondary aim was to examine whether the TMexD, as described by available definitions, is associated with NCD outcomes. We searched for records describing a whole TMexD up to July 2019 in 12 electronic databases, reference lists, a relevant journal, and by contacting experts on the topic. We reported the results using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We included 61 records for the definition of the diet and six for the association with NCD outcomes. The food groups characterising the TMexD that were consistently mentioned in all the study subgroups were grains and tubers, legumes, and vegetables; specific foods included maize, beans, chile, squash, tomato, and onion. Other groups also mentioned, although with lesser frequency, were maize products, fruits, beverages, fish and seafood, meats, sweets and sweeteners, and herbs and condiments. Only a few studies reported on the frequency of consumption or the amounts in which these foods were consumed in the TMexD. It was not possible to reach strong conclusions for the association between adherence to the TMexD and NCD outcomes. The TMexD was weakly associated with developing breast cancer, not associated with triglyceride levels, and inconsistently associated with obesity and diabetes outcomes. However, results were limited by the small number of studies (n = 6), of which most were of observational nature and evaluated diets using different TMexD definitions. These findings provide systematically identified evidence of the characteristics of the TMexD. More studies are needed to ascertain the exact quantities by which foods were consumed in the TMexD in order to establish whether this dietary pattern is associated with health and should be promoted within the Mexican population.
The Potential Influence of the Bacterial Microbiome on the Development and Progression of ADHD
Authors: Bull-Larsen Stephanie , Mohajeri M. Hasan
Published: November 2019

The latest research cumulates staggering information about the correlation between the microbiota-gut-brain axis and neurodevelopmental disorders. This review aims to shed light on the potential influence of the microbiome on the development of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disease, attention-deficit-hyperactive disorder (ADHD). As the etiology and pathophysiology of ADHD are still unclear, finding viable biomarkers and effective treatment still represent a challenge. Therefore, we focused on factors that have been associated with a higher risk of developing ADHD, while simultaneously influencing the microbial composition. We reviewed the effect of a differing microbial makeup on neurotransmitter concentrations important in the pathophysiology of ADHD. Additionally, we deduced factors that correlate with a high prevalence of ADHD, while simultaneously affecting the gut microbiome, such as emergency c-sections, and premature birth as the former leads to a decrease of the gut microbial diversity and the latter causes neuroprotective Lactobacillus levels to be reduced. Also, we assessed nutritional influences, such as breastfeeding, ingestion of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on the host′s microbiome and development of ADHD. Finally, we discussed the potential significance of Bifidobacterium as a biomarker for ADHD, the importance of preventing premature birth as prophylaxis and nutrition as a prospective therapeutic measurement against ADHD.
The Vitamin E Derivative Gamma Tocotrienol Promotes Anti-Tumor Effects in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cell Lines
Authors: Ghanem Paola , Zouein Annalise , Mohamad Maya , Hodroj Mohammad H. , Haykal Tony , Abou Najem Sonia , Naim Hassan Y. , Rizk Sandra
Published: November 2019

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a blood cancer characterized by the formation of faulty defective myelogenous cells with morphological heterogeneity and cytogenic aberrations leading to a loss of their function. In an attempt to find an effective and safe AML treatment, vitamin E derivatives, including tocopherols were considered as potential anti-tumor compounds. Recently, other isoforms of vitamin E, namely tocotrienols have been proposed as potential potent anti-cancerous agents, displaying promising therapeutic effects in different cancer types. In this study we evaluated the anti-cancerous effects of γ-tocotrienol, on AML cell lines in vitro. For this purpose, AML cell lines incubated with γ-tocotrienol were examined for their viability, cell cycle status, apoptotic cell death, DNA fragmentation, production of reactive oxygen species and expression of proapoptotic proteins. Our results showed that γ-tocotrienol exhibits time and dose-dependent anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic and antioxidant effects on U937 and KG-1 cell lines, through the upregulation of proteins involved in the intrinsic apoptotic pathway.
Autism, Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Modulation of Gut Microbiota by Nutritional Interventions
Authors: Ristori Maria Vittoria , Quagliariello Andrea , Reddel Sofia , Ianiro Gianluca , Vicari Stefano , Gasbarrini Antonio , Putignani Lorenza
Published: November 2019

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex behavioral syndrome that is characterized by speech and language disorders, intellectual impairment, learning and motor dysfunctions. Several genetic and environmental factors are suspected to affect the ASD phenotype including air pollution, exposure to pesticides, maternal infections, inflammatory conditions, dietary factors or consumption of antibiotics during pregnancy. Many children with ASD shows abnormalities in gastrointestinal (GI) physiology, including increased intestinal permeability, overall microbiota alterations, and gut infection. Moreover, they are “picky eaters” and the existence of specific sensory patterns in ASD patients could represent one of the main aspects in hampering feeding. GI disorders are associated with an altered composition of the gut microbiota. Gut microbiome is able to communicate with brain activities through microbiota-derived signaling molecules, immune mediators, gut hormones as well as vagal and spinal afferent neurons. Since the diet induces changes in the intestinal microbiota and in the production of molecules, such as the SCFA, we wanted to investigate the role that nutritional intervention can have on GI microbiota composition and thus on its influence on behavior, GI symptoms and microbiota composition and report which are the beneficial effect on ASD conditions.
Are There Adverse Events after the Use of Sexual Enhancement Nutrition Supplements? A Nationwide Online Survey from Japan
Authors: Nishijima Chiharu , Kobayashi Etsuko , Sato Yoko , Chiba Tsuyoshi
Published: November 2019

Dozens of safety alerts for sexual enhancement and weight loss dietary supplements have been launched from the government not only in Japan but also overseas. However, adverse events have been reported only for the use of weight loss supplements, and the prevalence of use and adverse events in sexual enhancement supplements is not known in Japan. To address this issue, we assessed the situation of sexual enhancement supplement use through a nationwide online survey. The prevalence of sexual enhancement supplement use among males was 23.0%. Use of these supplements was higher among younger people than among older people (p < 0.001). In total, 17.6% of users had experienced adverse events, but 58.3% of them did not consult about the events with anybody because of the temporality of their symptoms and their sense of shame. In addition, eight supplement products were found to be possible adulterated supplements in this survey. It is necessary to inform the public about the risk of sexual enhancement supplement use and also prepare a place for consultation on media channels that younger people are more familiar with, in order to monitor adverse events while also preserving their privacy.
The Effect of Various Doses of Phenylalanine Supplementation on Blood Phenylalanine and Tyrosine Concentrations in Tyrosinemia Type 1 Patients
Authors: van Ginkel Willem G. , van Reemst Hannah E. , Kienstra Nienke S. , Daly Anne , Rodenburg Iris L. , MacDonald Anita , Burgerhof Johannes G.M. , de Blaauw Pim , van de Krogt Jennifer , Santra Saikat , Heiner-Fokkema M. Rebecca , van Spronsen Francjan J.
Published: November 2019

Tyrosinemia type 1 (TT1) treatment with 2-(2-nitro-4-trifluormethyl-benzyl)-1,3-cyclohexanedione (NTBC) and a phenylalanine-tyrosine restricted diet is associated with low phenylalanine concentrations. Phenylalanine supplementation is prescribed without comprehensive consideration about its effect on metabolic control. We investigated the effect of phenylalanine supplementation on bloodspot phenylalanine, tyrosine, NTBC and succinylacetone. Eleven TT1 patients received 0, 20 and 40 mg/kg/day phenylalanine supplementation with the phenylalanine-tyrosine free L-amino acid supplements. Bloodspots were collected before breakfast, midday and evening meal. Differences between study periods, sample times and days within a study period were studied using (generalized) linear mixed model analyses. Twenty and 40 mg/kg/day phenylalanine supplementation prevented daytime phenylalanine decreases (p = 0.05) and most low phenylalanine concentrations, while tyrosine concentrations increased (p < 0.001). Furthermore, NTBC and succinylacetone concentrations did not differ between study periods. To conclude, 20 mg/kg/day phenylalanine supplementation can prevent most low phenylalanine concentrations without increasing tyrosine to concentrations above the target range or influencing NTBC and succinylacetone concentrations, while 40 mg/kg/day increased tyrosine concentrations to values above the targeted range. Additionally, this study showed that the effect of phenylalanine supplementation, and a possible phenylalanine deficiency, should be assessed using pre-midday meal blood samples that could be combined with an overnight fasted sample when in doubt.