bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical Analysis and Potential Biological Activities of Essential Oil from Rice Leaf
Authors: Minh Truong Ngoc , Xuan Tran Dang , Van Truong Mai , Andriana Yusuf , Viet Tran Duc , Khanh Tran Dang , Tran Hoang-Dung
Published: February 2019

Although many investigations on phytochemicals in rice plant parts and root exudates have been conducted, information on the chemical profile of essential oil (EO) and potent biological activities has been limited. In this study, chemical compositions of rice leaf EO and in vitro biological activities were investigated. From 1.5 kg of fresh rice leaves, an amount of 20 mg EO was obtained by distillation and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), electrospray ionization (ESI), and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) to reveal the presence of twelve volatile constituents, of which methyl ricinoleate (27.86%) was the principal compound, followed by palmitic acid (17.34%), and linolenic acid (11.16%), while 2-pentadecanone was the least (2.13%). Two phytoalexin momilactones A and B were first time identified in EO using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray mass spectrometry (UPLC/ESI-MS) (9.80 and 4.93 ng/g fresh weight, respectively), which accounted for 7.35% and 3.70% of the EO, respectively. The assays of DPPH (IC50 = 73.1 µg/mL), ABTS (IC50 = 198.3 µg/mL), FRAP (IC50 = 700.8 µg/mL) and β-carotene oxidation (LPI = 79%) revealed that EO possessed an excellent antioxidant activity. The xanthine oxidase assay indicated that the anti-hyperuricemia potential was in a moderate level (IC50 = 526 µg/mL) as compared with the standard allopurinol. The EO exerted potent inhibition on growth of Raphanus sativus, Lactuca sativa, and two noxious weeds Echinochloa crus-galli, and Bidens pilosa, but in contrast, the growth of rice seedlings was promoted. Among the examined plants, the growth of the E. crus-galli root was the most inhibited, proposing that constituents found in EO may have potential for the control of the problematic paddy weed E. crus-galli. It was found that the EO of rice leaves contained rich phytochemicals, which were potent in antioxidants and gout treatment, as well as weed management. Findings of this study highlighted the potential value of rice leaves, which may provide extra benefits for rice farmers.
Overexpression of a Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase SlMAPK3 Positively Regulates Tomato Tolerance to Cadmium and Drought Stress
Authors: Muhammad Tayeb , Zhang Jie , Ma Yalin , Li Yushun , Zhang Fei , Zhang Yan , Liang Yan
Published: February 2019

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) activation is a common defense response of plants to a range of abiotic stressors. SlMPK3, a serine-threonine protein kinase, has been reported as an important member of protein kinase cascade that also functions on plant stress tolerance. In this study, we cloned SlMPK3 from tomato and studied its role in cadmium (Cd2+) and drought tolerance. The results showed that transcripts of SlMAPK3 differentially accumulated in various plant tissues and were remarkably induced by different abiotic stressors and exogenous hormone treatments. Overexpression of SlMAPK3 increased tolerance to Cd2+ and drought as reflected by an increased germination rate and improved seedling growth. Furthermore, transgenic plants overexpressing SlMAPK3 showed an increased leaf chlorophyll content, root biomass accumulation and root activity under Cd2+ stress. Chlorophyll fluorescence analysis revealed that transgenic plants demonstrated an increased photosynthetic activity as well as contents of chlorophyll, proline, and sugar under drought stress. Notably, cadmium- and drought-induced oxidative stress was substantially attenuated in SlMAPK3 overexpressing plants as evidenced by lower malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide accumulation, and increased activity and transcript abundance of enzymatic antioxidants under stress conditions compared to that of wild-type. Our findings provide solid evidence that overexpression of SlMAPK3 gene in tomato positively regulates tolerance to Cd2+ and drought stress, which may have strengthen the molecular understanding of SlMAPK3 gene to improve abiotic stress tolerance.
Hypoglycemic Effects of Oat Oligopeptides in High-Calorie Diet/STZ-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Wang Jun-bo , Liu Xin-ran , Liu Si-qi , Mao Rui-xue , Hou Chao , Zhu Na , Liu Rui , Ma Hui-juan , Li Yong
Published: February 2019

The study was aimed to determine whether treatment with oat oligopeptides (OOPs) could modulate hyperglycemia related to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. Diabetic SD rats modeling by a joint effect of high-calorie diet for 45 days and twice intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg/kg streptozotocin at one-week interval were observed with or without OOPs administration (0.25, 0.50, 1.00, and 2.00 g/kg Body Weight) for 12 weeks. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), oral glucose test tolerance (OGTT), serum insulin, level of antioxidant, and hepatic enzymes were measured. In addition, frequency of micturition was recorded in this study for the first time. It was observed that the administration of OOPs (2.00 g/kg Body Weight) resulted in a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in FBG since 6th week and a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the OGTT-AUC on 6th and 10th week. In addition, the administration of OOPs (2.00 g/kg Body Weight) reduced HOMA-IR index and 24-h urine volume significantly (p < 0.05) whereas increased SOD activity significantly (p < 0.05). These results suggested that OOPs may have a hypoglycemic effect in diabetic rats.
Carminic Acid Stabilized with Aluminum-Magnesium Hydroxycarbonate as New Colorant Reducing Flammability of Polymer Composites
Authors: Marzec Anna , Szadkowski Bolesław , Rogowski Jacek , Maniukiewicz Waldemar , Moszyński Dariusz , Rybiński Przemysław , Zaborski Marian
Published: February 2019

In this study, hybrid pigments based on carminic acid (CA) were synthesized and applied in polymer materials. Modification of aluminum-magnesium hydroxycarbonate (LH) with CA transformed the soluble chromophore into an organic-inorganic hybrid colorant. Secondary ion mass spectroscopy (TOF-SIMS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-Vis spectroscopy were used to study the structure, composition, and morphology of the insoluble LH/CA colorant. Successful modification of the LH was confirmed by the presence of interactions between the LH matrix and molecules of CA. XPS analysis corroborated the presence of CA complexes with Mg2+ ions in the LH host. The batochromic shift in UV-Vis spectra of the organic-inorganic hybrid colorant was attributed to metal-dye interactions in the organic-inorganic hybrid colorants. Strong metal-dye interactions may also be responsible for the improved solvent resistance and chromostability of the modified LH. In comparison to uncolored ethylene-norbornene copolymer (EN), a modified EN sample containing LH/CA pigment showed lower heat release rate (HRR) and reduced total heat release (THR), providing the material with enhanced flame retardancy.
New Anti-inflammatory Flavonol Glycosides from Lindera akoensis Hayata
Authors: Yang Chung-Ping , Shie Pei-Hsin , Huang Guan-Jhong , Chien Shih-Chang , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung
Published: February 2019

Inflammation is related to many diseases. Lindera akoensis Hayata was often used in folktherapy in Taiwan for inflammation. In this study, three new flavonol acyl glycosides, namelykaempferol-3-O--D-4”,6”-di-(E)-p-coumaroylglucoside (1), 3”-(E)-p-coumaroylafzelin (2) and 40-Omethyl-2”,4”-di-(E)-p-coumaroylquercitrin (3), and three components, 3-dodecyl-4-hydroxy-5-methyldihydrofuran-2-one (4), 2-acetoxyclovan-9-ol (5), (1,4,6)-trihydroxyeudesmane(6) that were isolated from the natural product for the first time were obtained along with 25 knowncompounds from L. akoensis. Their structures were determined by comprehensive spectroscopicanalyses (1D and 2D NMR, EI-, ESI- and HRESI-MS). The ability of 1 to decrease the LPS-stimulatedproduction of nitrite in RAW264.7 cell was evaluated, showing an IC50 value of 36.3 ± 3.2 μM.This result supports the value of L. akoensis as a traditional medicine resource.
Biobased Poly(ethylene furanoate) Polyester/TiO2 Supported Nanocomposites as Effective Photocatalysts for Anti-inflammatory/Analgesic Drugs
Authors: Koltsakidou Anastasia , Terzopoulou Zoi , Kyzas George Z. , Bikiaris Dimitrios N. , Lambropoulou Dimitra A.
Published: February 2019

In the present study, polymer supported nanocomposites, consisting of bio-based poly(ethylene furanoate) polyester and TiO2 nanoparticles, were prepared and evaluated as effective photocatalysts for anti-inflammatory/analgesic drug removal. Nanocomposites were prepared by the solvent evaporation method containing 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt% TiO2 and characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thin films of them have been prepared by the melt press and optimization of the photocatalytic procedure was conducted for the most efficient synthesized photocatalyst. Finally, mineralization was evaluated by means of Total organic carbon (TOC) reduction and ion release, while the transformation products (TPs) generated during the photocatalytic procedure were identified by high-resolution mass spectrometry.
Stainless Steel Wire Mesh Supported Molecularly Imprinted Composite Membranes for Selective Separation of Ebracteolata Compound B from Euphorbia fischeriana
Authors: Ma Yukun , Wang Haijun , Guo Mengyan
Published: February 2019

Stainless steel wire mesh supported molecularly imprinted composite membranes for selective separation of Ebracteolata Compound B (ECB) were prepared based on surface polymerization using ECB separated from Euphorbia fischeriana as a template, acrylamide as a functional monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as a cross-linker, azodiisobutyronitrile as an initiator, and stainless steel wire mesh as support. Structure and purity of ECB were characterized by nuclear magenetic resonance (1H-NMR, 13C-NMR) and ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC). The molecularly imprinted composite membranes were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The membrane adsorbed on the ECB reached equilibrium about 30 min later, with a maximum adsorption amount of 3.39 μmol/cm2. Adsorption behavior between ECB and the molecularly imprinted composite membranes followed pseudo-second-order kinetics equation and Freundlich isotherm model. The molecularly imprinted composite membranes that could selectively identify and transport ECB in similar structures have a permeation rate of 38.71% to ECB. The ECB content in the permeation solution derived from the extract of Euphorbia fischeriana through the imprinted membrane was 87%. Overall, the obtained results demonstrated that an efficient approach with the molecularly imprinted composite membranes for selective separation of ECB from Euphorbia fischeriana.
Novel Superhydrophobic Sand and Polyurethane Sponge Coated with Silica/Modified Asphaltene Nanoparticles for Rapid Oil Spill Cleanup
Authors: Atta Ayman M. , Abdullah Mahmood M. S. , Al-Lohedan Hamad A. , Mohamed Nermen H.
Published: February 2019

Superhydrophobic nanomaterials are promising in the important pursuit to alleviate the environmental pollution caused by the petroleum crude oil industry, especially to clean-up oil spills. In this work, asphaltenes isolated from crude oil were modified to act as capping agents during the synthesis of hydrophobic silica nanoparticles (HSNPs). The chemical structure, surface morphology, particle size, and surfaces charge of HSNPs were investigated. The contact angles of water droplets on HSNP film surfaces were measured to investigate their wetting properties. Finally, superhydrophobic sand and polyurethane sponge were prepared by coating them with HSNPs and applied in the cleanup of oil spills of viscous heavy Arabian crude oil.
Clinical Trials of Thermosensitive Nanomaterials: An Overview
Authors: Nardecchia Stefania , Sánchez-Moreno Paola , de Vicente Juan , Marchal Juan A. , Boulaiz Houria
Published: February 2019

Currently, we are facing increasing demand to develop efficient systems for the detection and treatment of diseases that can realistically improve distinct aspects of healthcare in our society. Sensitive nanomaterials that respond to environmental stimuli can play an important role in this task. In this manuscript, we review the clinical trials carried out to date on thermosensitive nanomaterials, including all those clinical trials in hybrid nanomaterials that respond to other stimuli (e.g., magnetic, infrared radiation, and ultrasound). Specifically, we discuss their use in diagnosis and treatment of different diseases. At present, none of the existing trials focused on diagnosis take advantage of the thermosensitive characteristics of these nanoparticles. Indeed, almost all clinical trials consulted explore the use of Ferumoxytol as a current imaging test enhancer. However, the thermal property is being further exploited in the field of disease treatment, especially for the delivery of antitumor drugs. In this regard, ThermoDox®, based on lysolipid thermally sensitive liposome technology to encapsulate doxorubicin (DOX), is the flagship drug. In this review, we have evidenced the discrepancy existing between the number of published papers in thermosensitive nanomaterials and their clinical use, which could be due to the relative novelty of this area of research; more time is needed to validate it through clinical trials. We have no doubt that in the coming years there will be an explosion of clinical trials related to thermosensitive nanomaterials that will surely help to improve current treatments and, above all, will impact on patients’ quality of life and life expectancy.
High-Dose Electron Radiation and Unexpected Room-Temperature Self-Healing of Epitaxial SiC Schottky Barrier Diodes
Authors: Yang Guixia , Pang Yuanlong , Yang Yuqing , Liu Jianyong , Peng Shuming , Chen Gang , Jiang Ming , Zu Xiaotao , Fang Xuan , Zhao Hongbin , Qiao Liang , Xiao Haiyan
Published: February 2019

Silicon carbide (SiC) has been widely used for electronic radiation detectors and atomic battery sensors. However, the physical properties of SiC exposure to high-dose irradiation as well as its related electrical responses are not yet well understood. Meanwhile, the current research in this field are generally focused on electrical properties and defects formation, which are not suitable to explain the intrinsic response of irradiation effect since defect itself is not easy to characterize, and it is complex to determine whether it comes from the raw material or exists only upon irradiation. Therefore, a more straightforward quantification of irradiation effect is needed to establish the direct correlation between irradiation-induced current and the radiation fluence. This work reports the on-line electrical properties of 4H-SiC Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) under high-dose electron irradiation and employs in situ noise diagnostic analysis to demonstrate the correlation of irradiation-induced defects and microscopic electronic properties. It is found that the electron beam has a strong radiation destructive effect on 4H-SiC SBDs. The on-line electron-induced current and noise information reveal a self-healing like procedure, in which the internal defects of the devices are likely to be annealed at room temperature and devices’ performance is restored to some extent.
Determining the Composite Structure of Au-Fe-Based Submicrometre Spherical Particles Fabricated by Pulsed-Laser Melting in Liquid
Authors: Fuse Hokuto , Koshizaki Naoto , Ishikawa Yoshie , Swiatkowska-Warkocka Zaneta
Published: February 2019

Submicrometre spherical particles made of Au and Fe can be fabricated by pulsed-laser melting in liquid (PLML) using a mixture of Au and iron oxide nanoparticles as the raw particles dispersed in ethanol, although the detailed formation mechanism has not yet been clarified. Using a 355 nm pulsed laser to avoid extreme temperature difference between two different raw particles during laser irradiation and an Fe2O3 raw nanoparticle colloidal solution as an iron source to promote the aggregation of Au and Fe2O3 nanoparticles, we performed intensive characterization of the products and clarified the formation mechanism of Au-Fe composite submicrometre spherical particles. Because of the above two measures (Fe2O3 raw nanoparticle and 355 nm pulsed laser), the products—whether the particles are phase-separated or homogeneous alloys—basically follow the phase diagram. In Fe-rich range, the phase-separated Au-core/Fe-shell particles were formed, because quenching induces an earlier solidification of the Fe-rich component as a result of cooling from the surrounding ethanol. If the particle size is small, the quenching rate becomes very rapid and particles were less phase-separated. For high Au contents exceeding 70% in weight, crystalline Au-rich alloys were formed without phase separation. Thus, this aggregation control is required to selectively form homogeneous or phase-separated larger submicrometre-sized particles by PLML.
Biocompatibility and Bioimaging Potential of Fruit-Based Carbon Dots
Authors: Dias Cindy , Vasimalai Nagamalai , P. Sárria Marisa , Pinheiro Ivone , Vilas-Boas Vânia , Peixoto João , Espiña Begoña
Published: February 2019

Photo-luminescent carbon dots (CD) have become promising nanomaterials and their synthesis from natural products has attracted attention by the possibility of making the most of affordable, sustainable and, readily-available carbon sources. Here, we report on the synthesis, characterization and bioimaging potential of CDs produced from diverse extensively produced fruits: kiwi, avocado and pear. The in vitro cytotoxicity and anticancer potential of those CDs were assessed by comparing human epithelial cells from normal adult kidney and colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. In vivo toxicity was evaluated using zebrafish embryos given their peculiar embryogenesis, with transparent embryos developing ex-utero, allowing a real-time analysis. In vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that the synthesized CD presented toxicity only at concentrations of ≥1.5 mg mL−1. Kiwi CD exhibited the highest toxicity to both cells lines and zebrafish embryos, presenting lower LD50 values. Interestingly, despite inducing lower cytotoxicity in normal cells than the other CDs, black pepper CDs resulted in higher toxicity in vivo. The bio-distribution of CD in zebrafish embryos upon uptake was investigated using fluorescence microscopy. We observed a higher accumulation of CD in the eye and yolk sac, avocado CD being the ones more retained, indicating their potential usefulness in bio-imaging applications. This study shows the action of fruit-based CDs from kiwi, avocado and pear. However the compounds present in these fruit-based CDs and their mechanism of action as a bioimaging agent need to be further explored.
The Effect of Electrode Topography on the Magnetic Properties and MRI Application of Electrochemically-Deposited, Synthesized, Cobalt-Substituted Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Lin Wei-Chun , Chuang Chun-Chao , Chang Chen-Jung , Chiu Ya-Hsu , Yan Min , Tang Cheng-Ming
Published: February 2019

Magnetic nanoparticles are used to enhance the image contrast of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, the development of magnetic nanoparticles with a low dose/high image contrast and non-toxicity is currently a major challenge. In this study, cobalt-substituted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles deposited on titanium (Ti-CoHA) and cobalt-substituted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles deposited on titanium dioxide nanotubes (TNT-CoHA) were synthesized by the electrochemical deposition method. The particle sizes of Ti-CoHA and TNT-CoHA were 418.6 nm and 127.5 nm, respectively, as observed using FE-SEM. It was shown that CoHA can be obtained with a smaller particle size using a titanium dioxide nanotube (TNT) electrode plate. However, the particle size of TNT-CoHA is smaller than that of Ti-CoHA. The crystal size of the internal cobalt oxide of CoHA was calculated by using an XRD pattern. The results indicate that the crystal size of cobalt oxide in TNT-CoHA is larger than that of the cobalt oxide in Ti-CoHA. The larger crystal size of the cobalt oxide in TNT-CoHA makes the saturation magnetization (Ms) of TNT-CoHA 12.6 times higher than that of Ti-CoHA. The contrast in MRIs is related to the magnetic properties of the particles. Therefore, TNT-CoHA has good image contrast at low concentrations in T2 images. The relaxivity coefficient of the CoHA was higher for TNT-CoHA (340.3 mM−1s−1) than Ti-CoHA (211.7 mM−1s−1), and both were higher than the commercial iron nanoparticles (103.0 mM−1s−1). We showed that the TNT substrate caused an increase in the size of the cobalt oxide crystal of TNT-CoHA, thus effectively improving the magnetic field strength and MRI image recognition. It was also shown that the relaxivity coefficient rose with the Ms. Evaluation of biocompatibility of CoHA using human osteosarcoma cells (MG63) indicated no toxic effects. On the other hand, CoHA had an excellent antibacterial effect, as shown by E. coli evaluation, and the effect of TNT-CoHA powder was higher than that of Ti-CoHA powder. In summary, TNT-CoHA deposited electrochemically on the TNT substrates can be considered as a potential candidate for the application as an MRI contrast agent. This paper is a comparative study of how different electrode plates affect the magnetic and MRI image contrast of cobalt-substituted hydroxyapatite (CoHA) nanomaterials.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Graphene Quantum Dots Supported on Three-Dimensional Graphene for Supercapacitors
Authors: Luo Peihui , Guan Xiangfeng , Yu Yunlong , Li Xiaoyan , Yan Fengpo
Published: February 2019

Incorporation of new functional components into a three-dimensional graphene (3DG) framework improves the performance of supercapacitors based on 3DG as electrodes by tailoring the framework’s structure and properties. In this work, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) were incorporated into 3DG via one-step hydrothermal treatment of GQDs and graphene oxide (GO). By simply adjusting the GQDs/GO feeding ratio by weight, various GQDs/3DG composites were formed. The maximum feeding ratio was 80%, and the prepared composites possessed saturated GQDs loading on the 3DG framework, whereas composites obtained with a GQDs/GO feeding ratio of 40% as electrodes exhibited optimal specific capacitance of 242 F·g−1 for supercapacitors, an increase of 22% compared with that of pure 3DG electrodes (198 F·g−1). This improved performance was mainly due to better electrical conductivity and larger surface area for GQDs/3DG composites with moderate GQDs content. The fabricated GQDs/3DG composites as electrodes for supercapacitors revealed high electrochemical stability. Their capacitance kept 93% of the initial value after 10,000 charge-discharge cycles.
Correlation Between Composition and Electrodynamics Properties in Nanocomposites Based on Hard/Soft Ferrimagnetics with Strong Exchange Coupling
Authors: Almessiere Munirah Abdullah , Trukhanov Alex V. , Slimani Yassine , You K.Y. , Trukhanov Sergei V. , Trukhanova Ekaterina L. , Esa F. , Sadaqat A. , Chaudhary K. , Zdorovets Maxim , Baykal Abdulhadi
Published: February 2019

In this work, Sr0.3Ba0.4Pb0.3Fe12O19/(CuFe2O4)x (x = 2, 3, 4, and 5) as strongly exchange-coupled nanosized ferrites were fabricated using a one-pot sol–gel combustion method (citrate sol-gel method). The X-ray diffraction (XRD) powder patterns of the products confirmed the occurrence of pure, exchange-coupled ferrites. Frequency dependencies of the microwave characteristics (MW) were investigated using a co-axial method. The non-linear behavior of the MW with the composition transformation may be due to different degrees of Fe ion oxidation on the spinel/hexaferrite grain boundaries and strong exchange coupling during the hard and soft phases.
Improvement in Light Output of Ultraviolet Light-Emitting Diodes with Patterned Double-Layer ITO by Laser Direct Writing
Authors: Zhao Jie , Ding Xinghuo , Miao Jiahao , Hu Jinfeng , Wan Hui , Zhou Shengjun
Published: February 2019

A patterned double-layer indium-tin oxide (ITO), including the first unpatterned ITO layer serving as current spreading and the second patterned ITO layer serving as light extracting, was applied to obtain uniform current spreading and high light extraction efficiency (LEE) of GaN-based ultraviolet (UV) light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Periodic pinhole patterns were formed on the second ITO layer by laser direct writing to increase the LEE of UV LED. Effects of interval of pinhole patterns on optical and electrical properties of UV LED with patterned double-layer ITO were studied by numerical simulations and experimental investigations. Due to scattering out of waveguided light trapped inside the GaN film, LEE of UV LED with patterned double-layer ITO was improved as compared to UV LED with planar double-layer ITO. As interval of pinhole patterns decreased, the light output power (LOP) of UV LED with patterned double-layer ITO increased. In addition, UV LED with patterned double-layer ITO exhibited a slight degradation of current spreading as compared to the UV LED with a planar double-layer ITO. The forward voltage of UV LED with patterned double-layer ITO increased as the interval of pinhole patterns decreased.
Small Non-Coding RNAs Derived from Eukaryotic Ribosomal RNA
Authors: Lambert Marine , Benmoussa Abderrahim , Provost Patrick
Published: February 2019

The advent of RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) technologies has markedly improved our knowledge and expanded the compendium of small non-coding RNAs, most of which derive from the processing of longer RNA precursors. In this review article, we will present a nonexhaustive list of referenced small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) derived from eukaryotic ribosomal RNA (rRNA), called rRNA fragments (rRFs). We will focus on the rRFs that are experimentally verified, and discuss their origin, length, structure, biogenesis, association with known regulatory proteins, and potential role(s) as regulator of gene expression. This relatively new class of ncRNAs remained poorly investigated and underappreciated until recently, due mainly to the a priori exclusion of rRNA sequences—because of their overabundance—from RNA-Seq datasets. The situation surrounding rRFs resembles that of microRNAs (miRNAs), which used to be readily discarded from further analyses, for more than five decades, because no one could believe that RNA of such a short length could bear biological significance. As if we had not yet learned our lesson not to restrain our investigative, scientific mind from challenging widely accepted beliefs or dogmas, and from looking for the hidden treasures in the most unexpected places.
Association with the Quality of Sleep and the Mediating Role of Eating on Self-Esteem in Healthcare Personnel
Authors: Pérez-Fuentes María del Carmen , Molero Jurado María del Mar , Barragán Martín Ana Belén , Martos Martínez África , Gázquez Linares José Jesús
Published: February 2019

In recent decades, organizational research has paid special attention to the mechanisms promoting the health and well-being of nursing professionals. In this context, self-esteem is a personal resource associated with well-being at work and the psychological well-being of nurses. The purpose of this study was to analyze the mediating role of eating on the relationship between sleep quality and self-esteem in nursing professionals. A sample of 1073 nurses was administered the Rosenberg General Self-Esteem Scale, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-R18 (TFEQ-18). The results show that poor sleep quality and type of eating directly and indirectly affect self-esteem. Poor sleep quality lowered self-esteem through emotional eating and, even though emotional eating facilitated uncontrolled eating, this relationship had no significant effect on self-esteem. The findings of this study suggest that hospital management should implement employee health awareness programs on the importance of healthy sleep and design educational interventions for improving diet quality.
Association between Sleep Disturbances and Liver Status in Obese Subjects with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Comparison with Healthy Controls
Authors: Marin-Alejandre Bertha Araceli , Abete Itziar , Cantero Irene , Riezu-Boj Jose I. , Milagro Fermín I. , Monreal J. Ignacio , Elorz Mariana , Herrero José Ignacio , Benito-Boillos Alberto , Quiroga Jorge , Martinez-Echeverria Ana , Uriz-Otano Juan Isidro , Huarte-Muniesa María Pilar , Tur Josep A. , Martínez J. Alfredo , Zulet M. Angeles
Published: February 2019

The relevance of sleep patterns in the onset or evolution of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is still poorly understood. Our aim was to investigate the association between sleep characteristics and hepatic status indicators in obese people with NAFLD compared to normal weight non-NAFLD controls. Ninety-four overweight or obese patients with NAFLD and 40 non-NAFLD normal weight controls assessed by abdominal ultrasonography were enrolled. Hepatic status evaluation considered liver stiffness determined by Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse elastography (ARFI) and transaminases. Additionally, anthropometric measurements, clinical characteristics, and biochemical profiles were determined. Sleep features were evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Hepatic status parameters, anthropometric measurements, and clinical and biochemical markers differed significantly in NAFLD subjects compared to controls, as well as sleep efficiency, sleep disturbance score, and sleep quality score. In the NAFLD group, a higher prevalence of short sleep duration (p = 0.005) and poor sleep quality (p = 0.041) were found. Multivariate-adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for NAFLD considering sleep disturbance was 1.59 (1.11–2.28). Regression models that included either sleep disturbance or sleep quality predicted up to 20.3% and 20.4% of the variability of liver stiffness, respectively, and after adjusting for potential confounders. Current findings suggest that sleep disruption may be contributing to the pathogenesis of NAFLD as well as the alteration of the liver may be affecting sleep patterns. Consequently, sleep characteristics may be added to the list of modifiable behaviors to consider in health promotion strategies and in the prevention and management of NAFLD.
Divergent Effectiveness of Multispecies Probiotic Preparations on Intestinal Microbiota Structure Depends on Metabolic Properties
Authors: Biagioli Michele , Capobianco Daniela , Carino Adriana , Marchianò Silvia , Fiorucci Chiara , Ricci Patrizia , Distrutti Eleonora , Fiorucci Stefano
Published: February 2019

A growing body of evidence suggests that probiotic functionality is not accurately predicted by their taxonomy. Here, we have set up a study to investigate the effectiveness of two probiotic formulations containing a blend of seven bacterial species in modulating intestinal inflammation in two rodent models of colitis, induced by treating mice with 2,4,6-Trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) or dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). Despite the taxonomy of the bacterial species in the two probiotic formulations being similar, only one preparation (Blend 2-Vivomixx) effectively attenuated the development of colitis in both models. In the TNBS model of colitis, Blend 2 reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory genes while increasing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, promoting the expansion M2 macrophages and the formation of IL-10-producing Treg cells in the colon’s lamina propria. In the DSS model of colitis, disease attenuation and Treg formation was observed only in mice administered with Blend 2, and this effect was associated with intestinal microbiota remodeling and increased formation of lactate, butyrate, and propionate. None of these effects were observed in mice administered with Blend 1 (VSL#3). In summary, we have shown that two probiotic mixtures obtained by combining taxonomically similar species produced with different manufacturing methods exert divergent effects in mouse models of colitis.
Polymethoxylated Flavones Target Cancer Stemness and Improve the Antiproliferative Effect of 5-Fluorouracil in a 3D Cell Model of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Pereira Carolina V. , Duarte Marlene , Silva Patrícia , Bento da Silva Andreia , Duarte Catarina M. M. , Cifuentes Alejandro , García-Cañas Virginia , Bronze Maria R. , Albuquerque Cristina , Serra Ana Teresa
Published: February 2019

Polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs) from citrus fruits are reported to present anticancer potential. However, there is a lack of information regarding their effect on cancer stem cell (CSC) populations, which has been recognized as responsible for tumor initiation, relapse, and chemoresistance. In this study, we evaluated the effect of an orange peel extract (OPE) and its main PMFs, namely, nobiletin, sinensetin, tangeretin, and scutellarein tetramethylether in targeting cell proliferation and stemness using a 3D cell model of colorectal cancer composed of HT29 cell spheroids cultured for 7 days in stirred conditions. Soft agar assay, ALDH1 activity, and relative quantitative gene expression analysis of specific biomarkers were carried out to characterize the stemness, self-renewal, and mesenchymal features of HT29 cell spheroids. Then, the impact of OPE and PMFs in reducing cell proliferation and modulating cancer stemness and self-renewal was assessed. Results showed that, when compared with monolayer cultures, HT29 cell spheroids presented higher ALDH1 activity (81.97% ± 5.27% compared to 63.55% ± 17.49% for 2D), upregulation of CD44, PROM1, SOX9, and SNAI1 genes (1.83 ± 0.34, 2.54 ± 0.51, 2.03 ± 0.15, and 6.12 ± 1.59 times) and high self-renewal capability (352 ± 55 colonies compared to 253 ± 42 for 2D). Incubation with OPE (1 mg/mL) significantly inhibited cell proliferation and modulated cancer stemness and self-renewal ability: colony formation, ALDH1 activity, and the expression of cancer stemness biomarkers PROM1 and LGR5 were significantly reduced (0.66 ± 0.15 and 0.51 ± 0.14 times, respectively). Among all PMFs, tangeretin was the most efficient in targeting the CSC population by decreasing colony formation and the expression of PROM1 and LGR5. Scutellarein tetramethylether was shown to modulate markers of mesenchymal/metastatic transition (increasing CDH1 and reducing ZEB1 and SNAI1) and nobiletin was capable of downregulating PROM1 and SNAI1 expression. Importantly, all PMFs and OPE were shown to synergistically interact with 5-fluorouracil, improving the antiproliferative response of this drug.
Binge-Type Eating in Rats is Facilitated by Neuromedin U Receptor 2 in the Nucleus Accumbens and Ventral Tegmental Area
Authors: Smith Ashley E. , Kasper James M. , Ara 13  , Anastasio Noelle C. , Hommel Jonathan D.
Published: February 2019

Binge-eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder, characterized by rapid, recurrent overconsumption of highly palatable food in a short time frame. BED shares an overlapping behavioral phenotype with obesity, which is also linked to the overconsumption of highly palatable foods. The reinforcing properties of highly palatable foods are mediated by the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and the ventral tegmental area (VTA), which have been implicated in the overconsumption behavior observed in BED and obesity. A potential regulator of binge-type eating behavior is the G protein-coupled receptor neuromedin U receptor 2 (NMUR2). Previous research demonstrated that NMUR2 knockdown potentiates binge-type consumption of high-fat food. We correlated binge-type consumption across a spectrum of fat and carbohydrate mixtures with synaptosomal NMUR2 protein expression in the NAc and VTA of rats. Synaptosomal NMUR2 protein in the NAc demonstrated a strong positive correlation with binge intake of a “lower”-fat (higher carbohydrate) mixture, whereas synaptosomal NMUR2 protein in the VTA demonstrated a strong negative correlation with binge intake of an “extreme” high-fat (0% carbohydrate) mixture. Taken together, these data suggest that NMUR2 may differentially regulate binge-type eating within the NAc and the VTA.
Changes in Sedentary and Active Lifestyle, Diet Quality and Body Composition Nine Months after an Education Program in Polish Students Aged 11–12 Years: Report from the ABC of Healthy Eating Study
Authors: Wadolowska Lidia , Hamulka Jadwiga , Kowalkowska Joanna , Ulewicz Natalia , Hoffmann Monika , Gornicka Magdalena , Bronkowska Monika , Leszczynska Teresa , Glibowski Pawel , Korzeniowska-Ginter Renata
Published: February 2019

The sustainability of education focused on improving the dietary and lifestyle behaviours of teenagers has not been extensively studied. The aim of this study was to determine the sustainability of diet-related and lifestyle-related school-based education on sedentary and active lifestyle, diet quality and body composition of Polish pre-teenagers in a medium-term follow-up study. An education-based intervention study was carried out on 464 students aged 11–12 years (educated/control group: 319/145). Anthropometric measurements were taken and body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-height ratios (WHtR) were calculated, both at the baseline and after nine months. Dietary data from a short-form food frequency questionnaire (SF-FFQ4PolishChildren) were collected. Two measures of lifestyle (screen time, physical activity) and two diet quality scores (pro-healthy, pHDI, and non-healthy, nHDI) were established. After nine months, in the educated group (vs. control) a significantly higher increase was found in nutrition knowledge score (mean difference of the change: 1.8 points) with a significantly higher decrease in physical activity (mean difference of the change: −0.20 points), nHDI (−2.3% points), the z-WHtR (−0.18 SD), and the z-waist circumference (−0.13 SD). Logistic regression modelling with an adjustment for confounders revealed that after nine months in the educated group (referent: control), the chance of adherence to a nutrition knowledge score of at least the median was over 2 times higher, and that of the nHDI category of at least the median was significantly lower (by 35%). In conclusion, diet-related and lifestyle-related school-based education from an almost one-year perspective can reduce central adiposity in pre-teenagers, despite a decrease in physical activity and the tendency to increase screen time. Central adiposity reduction can be attributed to the improvement of nutrition knowledge in pre-teenagers subjected to the provided education and to stopping the increase in unhealthy dietary habits.
Potential of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. in Human Health and Nutrition: A Review of Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Perspectives
Authors: Nowak Adriana , Zakłos-Szyda Małgorzata , Błasiak Janusz , Nowak Agnieszka , Zhang Zhuo , Zhang Bolin
Published: February 2019

Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. (SCE) is a plant with high potential for beneficial health effects, confirmed by molecular studies. Its constituents exert anti-cancer effects through the induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, as well as inhibition of invasion and metastasis in cancer cell lines and experimental animals. SCE displays antimicrobial effects against several pathogenic strains. It has anti-diabetic potential, supported by hypoglycemic activity. A diet rich in SCE improves pancreatic functions, stimulates insulin secretion, and reduces complications in diabetic animals. SCE prevents lipid accumulation and differentiation of preadipocytes, indicating its anti-obesity potential. SCE exerts a protective effect against skin photoaging, osteoarthritis, sarcopenia, senescence, and mitochondrial dysfunction, and improves physical endurance and cognitive/behavioural functions, which can be linked with its general anti-aging potency. In food technology, SCE is applied as a preservative, and as an additive to increase the flavour, taste, and nutritional value of food. In summary, SCE displays a variety of beneficial health effects, with no side effects. Further research is needed to determine the molecular mechanisms of SCE action. First, the constituents responsible for its beneficial effects should be isolated and identified, and recommended as preventative nutritional additives, or considered as therapeutics.
Are Predictive Energy Expenditure Equations Accurate in Cirrhosis?
Authors: Eslamparast Tannaz , Vandermeer Benjamin , Raman Maitreyi , Gramlich Leah , Den Heyer Vanessa , Belland Dawn , Ma Mang , Tandon Puneeta
Published: February 2019

Malnutrition is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in cirrhosis. An accurate nutrition prescription is an essential component of care, often estimated using time-efficient predictive equations. Our aim was to compare resting energy expenditure (REE) estimated using predictive equations (predicted REE, pREE) versus REE measured using gold-standard, indirect calorimetry (IC) (measured REE, mREE). We included full-text English language studies in adults with cirrhosis comparing pREE versus mREE. The mean differences across studies were pooled with RevMan 5.3 software. A total of 17 studies (1883 patients) were analyzed. The pooled cohort was comprised of 65% men with a mean age of 53 ± 7 years. Only 45% of predictive equations estimated energy requirements to within 90–110% of mREE using IC. Eighty-three percent of predictive equations underestimated and 28% overestimated energy needs by ±10%. When pooled, the mean difference between the mREE and pREE was lowest for the Harris–Benedict equation, with an underestimation of 54 (95% CI: 30–137) kcal/d. The pooled analysis was associated with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 94%). In conclusion, predictive equations calculating REE have limited accuracy in patients with cirrhosis, most commonly underestimating energy requirements and are associated with wide variations in individual comparative data.
Prostate Cancer Disparity, Chemoprevention, and Treatment by Specific Medicinal Plants
Authors: Yedjou Clement G. , Mbemi Ariane T. , Noubissi Felicite , Tchounwou Solange S. , Tsabang Nole , Payton Marinelle , Miele Lucio , Tchounwou Paul B.
Published: February 2019

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most common cancers in men. The global burden of this disease is rising. Its incidence and mortality rates are higher in African American (AA) men compared to white men and other ethnic groups. The treatment decisions for PC are based exclusively on histological architecture, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, and local disease state. Despite advances in screening for and early detection of PC, a large percentage of men continue to be diagnosed with metastatic disease including about 20% of men affected with a high mortality rate within the African American population. As such, this population group may benefit from edible natural products that are safe with a low cost. Hence, the central goal of this article is to highlight PC disparity associated with nutritional factors and highlight chemo-preventive agents from medicinal plants that are more likely to reduce PC. To reach this central goal, we searched the PubMed Central database and the Google Scholar website for relevant papers. Our search results revealed that there are significant improvements in PC statistics among white men and other ethnic groups. However, its mortality rate remains significantly high among AA men. In addition, there are limited studies that have addressed the benefits of medicinal plants as chemo-preventive agents for PC treatment, especially among AA men. This review paper addresses this knowledge gap by discussing PC disparity associated with nutritional factors and highlighting the biomedical significance of three medicinal plants (curcumin, garlic, and Vernonia amygdalina) that show a great potential to prevent/treat PC, as well as to reduce its incidence/prevalence and mortality, improve survival rate, and reduce PC-related health disparity.
Camphor, Applied Epidermally to the Back, Causes Snout- and Chest-Grooming in Rats: A Response Mediated by Cutaneous TRP Channels
Authors: Ishikawa Débora T. , Vizin Robson Cristiano Lillo , Souza Cristiane Oliveira de , Carrettiero Daniel Carneiro , Romanovsky Andrej A. , Almeida Maria Camila
Published: February 2019

Thermoregulatory grooming, a behavioral defense against heat, is known to be driven by skin-temperature signals. Because at least some thermal cutaneous signals that drive heat defenses are likely to be generated by transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, we hypothesized that warmth-sensitive TRPs drive thermoregulatory grooming. Adult male Wistar rats were used. We showed that camphor, a nonselective agonist of several TRP channels, including vanilloid (V) 3, when applied epidermally to the back (500 mg/kg), caused a pronounced self-grooming response, including paw-licking and snout- and chest-“washing”. By the percentage of time spent grooming, the response was similar to the thermoregulatory grooming observed during exposure to ambient warmth (32 °C). Ruthenium red (a non-selective antagonist of TRP channels, including TRPV3), when administered intravenously at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg, attenuated the self-grooming behavior induced by either ambient warmth or epidermal camphor. Furthermore, the intravenous administration of AMG8432 (40 mg/kg), a relatively selective TRPV3 antagonist, also attenuated the self-grooming response to epidermal camphor. We conclude that camphor causes the self-grooming behavior by acting on TRP channels in the skin. We propose that cutaneous warmth signals mediated by TRP channels, possibly including TRPV3, drive thermoregulatory self-grooming in rats.
Methotrexate-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Protein Functionalization to Improve Brain Biodistribution
Authors: Muntoni Elisabetta , Martina Katia , Marini Elisabetta , Giorgis Marta , Lazzarato Loretta , Salaroglio Iris Chiara , Riganti Chiara , Lanotte Michele , Battaglia Luigi
Published: February 2019

Glioblastoma is the most common and invasive primary tumor of the central nervous system and normally has a negative prognosis. Biodistribution in healthy animal models is an important preliminary study aimed at investigating the efficacy of chemotherapy, as it is mainly addressed towards residual cells after surgery in a region with an intact blood–brain barrier. Nanoparticles have emerged as versatile vectors that can overcome the blood–brain barrier. In this experimental work, solid lipid nanoparticles, prepared using fatty acid coacervation, have been loaded with an active lipophilic ester of cytotoxic drug methotrexate, and functionalized with either transferrin or insulin, two proteins whose receptors are abundantly expressed on the blood–brain barrier. Functionalization has been achieved by grafting a maleimide moiety onto the nanoparticle’s surface and exploiting its reactivity towards thiolated proteins. The nanoparticles have been tested in vitro on a blood–brain barrier cellular model and in vivo for biodistribution in Wistar rats. Drug metabolites, in particular 7-hydroxymethotrexate, have also been investigated in the animal model. The data obtained indicate that the functionalization of the nanoparticles improved their ability to overcome the blood–brain barrier when a PEG spacer between the proteins and the nanoparticle’s surface was used. This is probably because this method provided improved ligand–receptor interactions and selectivity for the target tissue.