bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spinel-Type (FeCoCrMnZn)3O4 High-Entropy Oxide: Facile Preparation and Supercapacitor Performance
Authors: Liang Bingliang , Ai Yunlong , Wang Yiliang , Liu Changhong , Ouyang Sheng , Liu Meijiao
Published: December 2020

High-entropy oxides (HEOs) have attracted more and more attention because of their unique structures and potential applications. In this work, (FeCoCrMnZn)3O4 HEO powders were synthesized via a facile solid-state reaction route. The confirmation of phase composition, the observation of microstructure, and the analysis of crystal structure, distribution of elements, and valences of elements were conducted by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. Furthermore, a (FeCoCrMnZn)3O4/nickel foam ((FeCoCrMnZn)3O4/NF) electrode was prepared via a coating method, followed by the investigation of its supercapacitor performance. The results show that, after calcining (FeCoCrMnZn)3O4 powders at 900 °C for 2 h, a single spinel structure (FCC, Fd-3m, a = 0.8399 nm) was obtained with uniform distribution of Fe, Co, Cr, Mn, and Zn elements, the typical characteristic of a high-entropy oxide. In addition, the mass specific capacitance of the (FeCoCrMnZn)3O4/NF composite electrode was 340.3 F·g−1 (with 1 M KOH as the electrolyte and 1 A·g−1 current density), which indicates that the (FeCoCrMnZn)3O4 HEO can be regarded as a prospective candidate for an electrode material in the field of supercapacitor applications.
The Effects of Temperature Curing on the Strength Development, Transport Properties, and Freeze-Thaw Resistance of Blast Furnace Slag Cement Mortars Modified with Nanosilica
Authors: Federowicz Karol , Figueiredo Vitoria , Al-kroom Hussein , Abdel-Gawwad Hamdy , Abd Elrahman Mohamed , Sikora Pawel
Published: December 2020

This investigation studies the effects of hot water and hot air curing on the strength development, transport properties, and freeze-thaw resistance of mortars incorporating low-heat blast furnace slag cement and nanosilica (NS). Mortar samples were prepared and stored in ambient conditions for 24 h. After demolding, mortar samples were subjected to two different hot curing methods: Hot water and hot air curing (40 °C and 60 °C) for 24 h. For comparison purposes, mortar reference mixes were prepared and cured in water and air at ambient conditions. Strength development (from 1 to 180 days), capillary water porosity, water sorptivity, and freeze-thaw resistance were tested after 180 days of curing. The experimental results showed that both curing regimes accelerate the strength development of mortars, especially in the first seven days of hydration. The highest early strengths were reported for mortars subjected to a temperature of 60 °C, followed by those cured at 40 °C. The hot water curing regime was found to be more suitable, as a result of more stable strength development. Similar findings were observed in regard to durability-related properties. It is worth noting that thermal curing can more efficiently increase strength in the presence of nanosilica, suggesting that NS is more effective in enhancing strength under thermal curing.
Organic Contaminant-Triggered Self-Healing Soil Mix Cut-Off Wall Materials Incorporating Oil Sorbents
Authors: Cao Benyi , de Souza Livia , Al-Tabbaa Abir
Published: December 2020

Soil mix cut-off walls have been increasingly used for containment of organic contaminants in polluted land. However, the mixed soil is susceptible to deterioration due to aggressive environmental and mechanical stresses, leading to crack-originated damage and requiring costly maintenance. This paper proposed a novel approach to achieve self-healing properties of soil mix cut-off wall materials triggered by the ingress of organic contaminants. Oil sorbent polymers with high absorption and swelling capacities were incorporated in a cementitious grout and mixed with soil using a laboratory-scale auger setup. The self-healing performance results showed that 500 µm-wide cracks could be bridged and blocked by the swollen oil sorbents, and that the permeability was reduced by almost an order of magnitude after the permeation of liquid paraffin. It was shown by micro-CT scan tests that the network formed by the swollen oil sorbents acted as attachments and binder, preventing the cracked mixed soil sample from crumbling, and that the oil sorbents swelled three times in volume and therefore occupied the air space and blocked the cracks in the matrix. These promising results exhibit the potential for the oil sorbents to provide soil mix cut-off walls in organically-contaminated land with self-healing properties and enhanced durability.
Pertraction of Co(II) through Novel Ultrasound Prepared Supported Liquid Membranes Containing D2EHPA. Optimization and Transport Parameters
Authors: León Gerardo , Hidalgo Asunción María , Miguel Beatriz , Guzmán María Amelia
Published: December 2020

Pertraction of Co(II) through novel supported liquid membranes prepared by ultrasound, using bis-2-ethylhexyl phosphoric acid as carrier, sulfuric acid as stripping agent and a counter-transport mechanism, is studied in this paper. Supported liquid membrane characterization through scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy shows the impregnation of the microporous polymer support by the membrane phase by the action of ultrasound. The effect on the initial flux of Co(II) of different experimental conditions is analyzed to optimize the transport process. At these optimal experimental conditions (feed phase pH 6, 0.5 M sulfuric acid in product phase, carrier concentration 0.65 M in membrane phase and stirring speed of 300 rpm in both phases) supported liquid membrane shows great stability. From the relation between the inverse of Co(II) initial permeability and the inverse of the square of carrier concentration in the membrane phase, in the optimized experimental conditions, the transport resistance due to diffusion through both the aqueous feed boundary layer (3.7576 × 104 s·m−1) and the membrane phase (1.1434 × 1010 s·m−1), the thickness of the aqueous feed boundary layer (4.0206 × 10−6 m) and the diffusion coefficient of the Co(II)-carrier in the bulk membrane (4.0490 × 10−14 m2·s−1), have been determined.
Treatment of Aqueous Effluents from Steel Manufacturing with High Thiocyanate Concentration by Reverse Osmosis
Authors: Álvarez José R. , Antón F. Enrique , Álvarez-García Sonia , Luque Susana
Published: December 2020

The feasibility of reverse osmosis (RO) for treating coking wastewaters from a steel manufacturing plant, rich in ammonium thiocyanate was assessed. DOW FILMTECTM SW30 membrane performance with synthetic and real thiocyanate-containing solutions was established at the laboratory and (onsite) pilot plant scale. No short-term fouling was observed, and the data followed the known solution-diffusion model and the film theory. Those models, together with non-steady state mass balances, were used in simulations that aided to design a full scale two-stage RO plant for thiocyanate separation.
Dielectrophoresis Response of Water-in-Oil-in-Water Double Emulsion Droplets with Singular or Dual Cores
Authors: Jiang Tianyi , Jia Yankai , Sun Haizhen , Deng Xiaokang , Tang Dewei , Ren Yukun
Published: December 2020

Microfluidic technologies have enabled generation of exquisite multiple emulsion droplets, which have been used in many fields, including single-cell assays, micro-sized chemical reactions, and material syntheses. Electrical controlling is an important technique for droplet manipulation in microfluidic systems, but the dielectrophoretic behaviors of multiple emulsion droplets in electrical fields are rarely studied. Here, we report on the dielectrophoresis response of double emulsion droplets in AC electric fields in microfluidic channel. A core-shell model is utilized for analyzing the polarization of droplet interfaces and the overall dielectrophoresis (DEP) force. The water-in-oil-in-water droplets, generated by glass capillary devices, experience negative DEP at low field frequency. At high frequency, however, the polarity of DEP is tunable by adjusting droplet shell thickness or core conductivity. Then, the behavior of droplets with two inner cores is investigated, where the droplets undergo rotation before being repelled or attracted by the strong field area. This work should benefit a wide range of applications that require manipulation of double emulsion droplets by electric fields.
Recent Studies on Supercapacitors with Next-Generation Structures
Authors: Sung Juho , Shin Changhwan
Published: December 2020

Supercapacitors have shown great potential as a possible solution to the increasing global demand for next-generation energy storage systems. Charge repositioning is based on physical or chemical mechanisms. There are three types of supercapacitors—the electrochemical double layer, the pseudocapacitor, and a hybrid of both. Each type is further subdivided according to the material used. Herein, a detailed overview of the working mechanism as well as a new method for capacitance enhancement are presented.
Identification and Characterization of 33 Bacillus cereus sensu lato Isolates from Agricultural Fields from Eleven Widely Distributed Countries by Whole Genome Sequencing
Authors: Zervas Athanasios , Aggerbeck Marie Rønne , Allaga Henrietta , Güzel Mustafa , Hendriks Marc , Jonuškienė IIona , Kedves Orsolya , Kupeli Ayse , Lamovšek Janja , Mülner Pascal , Munday Denise , Namli Şahin , Samut Hilal , Tomičić Ružica , Tomičić Zorica , Yeni Filiz , Zghal Raida Zribi , Zhao Xingchen , Sanchis-Borja Vincent , Hendriksen Niels Bohse
Published: December 2020

The phylogeny, identification, and characterization of 33 B. cereus sensu lato isolates originating from 17 agricultural soils from 11 countries were analyzed on the basis of whole genome sequencing. Phylogenetic analyses revealed all isolates are divided into six groups, which follows the generally accepted phylogenetic division of B. cereus sensu lato isolates. Four different identification methods resulted in a variation in the identity of the isolates, as none of the isolates were identified as the same species by all four methods—only the recent identification method proposed directly reflected the phylogeny of the isolates. This points to the importance of describing the basis and method used for the identification. The presence and percent identity of the protein product of 19 genes potentially involved in pathogenicity divided the 33 isolates into groups corresponding to phylogenetic division of the isolates. This suggests that different pathotypes exist and that it is possible to differentiate between them by comparing the percent identity of proteins potentially involved in pathogenicity. This also reveals that a basic link between phylogeny and pathogenicity is likely to exist. The geographical distribution of the isolates is not random: they are distributed in relation to their division into the six phylogenetic groups, which again relates to different ecotypes with different temperature growth ranges. This means that we find it easier to analyze and understand the results obtained from the 33 B. cereus sensu lato isolates in a phylogenetic, patho-type and ecotype-oriented context, than in a context based on uncertain identification at the species level.
Genomic and Metabolic Insights into Two Novel Thiothrix Species from Enhanced Biological Phosphorus Removal Systems
Authors: Mardanov Andrey V. , Gruzdev Eugeny V. , Smolyakov Dmitry D. , Rudenko Tatyana S. , Beletsky Alexey V. , Gureeva Maria V. , Markov Nikita D. , Berestovskaya Yulia Yu. , Pimenov Nikolai V. , Ravin Nikolai V. , Grabovich Margarita Yu.
Published: December 2020

Two metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), obtained from laboratory-scale enhanced biological phosphorus removal bioreactors, were analyzed. The values of 16S rRNA gene sequence identity, average nucleotide identity, and average amino acid identity indicated that these genomes, designated as RT and SSD2, represented two novel species within the genus Thiothrix, ‘Candidatus Thiothrix moscowensis’ and ‘Candidatus Thiothrix singaporensis’. A complete set of genes for the tricarboxylic acid cycle and electron transport chain indicates a respiratory type of metabolism. A notable feature of RT and SSD2, as well as other Thiothrix species, is the presence of a flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD)-dependent malate:quinone oxidoreductase instead of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)-dependent malate dehydrogenase. Both MAGs contained genes for CO2 assimilation through the Calvin–Benson–Bassam cycle; sulfide oxidation (sqr, fccAB), sulfur oxidation (rDsr complex), direct (soeABC) and indirect (aprBA, sat) sulfite oxidation, and the branched Sox pathway (SoxAXBYZ) of thiosulfate oxidation to sulfur and sulfate. All these features indicate a chemoorganoheterotrophic, chemolithoautotrophic, and chemolithoheterotrophic lifestyle. Both MAGs comprise genes for nitrate reductase and NO-reductase, while SSD2 also contains genes for nitrite reductase. The presence of polyphosphate kinase and exopolyphosphatase suggests that RT and SSD2 could accumulate and degrade polyhosphates during the oxic-anoxic growth cycle in the bioreactors, such as typical phosphate-accumulating microorganisms.
The Influence of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide on Graham Flour Enzyme Polyphenol Oxidase Activity
Authors: Hojnik Podrepšek Gordana , Knez Željko , Leitgeb Maja
Published: December 2020

Graham flour is a form of whole wheat flour made by grinding the endosperm and is thus also the most nutritious. Generally, the enzyme polyphenol oxidase (PPO) catalyzes two different reactions in the presence of molecular oxygen: the hydroxylation of monophenols to ortho-diphenol and the oxidation of o-diphenol to o-quinone. The purpose of the work was to inactivate PPO activity to extend the shelf life of graham flour and at the same time preserve all the of its high-quality properties. The influence of supercritical CO2 (scCO2) treatment on PPO activity in graham flour was investigated. First, graham flour was exposed to scCO2 conditions, then the proteins were extracted, and in the last step the concentration of total proteins and the specific activity of the PPO enzyme were determined by spectrophotometric assay. PPO activity decreased with an increase in treatment pressure. Furthermore, the flour quality characteristics that meet all needs for wheat end-use products after scCO2 treatment have been preserved. No major changes in the structure of the granulate or shape of the flour particles were observed. A slightly reduced value of the moisture content in scCO2-treated graham flour also implies an extension of the shelf life.
Relative Abundance of Alpha-Amylase/Trypsin Inhibitors in Selected Sorghum Cultivars
Authors: Sagu Sorel Tchewonpi , Landgräber Eva , Rackiewicz Michal , Huschek Gerd , Rawel Harshadrai
Published: December 2020

Sorghum is of growing interest and considered as a safe food for wheat related disorders. Besides the gluten, α-amylase/trypsin-inhibitors (ATIs) have been identified as probable candidates for these disorders. Several studies focused on wheat-ATIs although there is still a lack of data referring to the relative abundance of sorghum-ATIs. The objective of this work was therefore to contribute to the characterization of sorghum ATI profiles by targeted proteomics tools. Fifteen sorghum cultivars from different regions were investigated with raw proteins ranging from 7.9 to 17.0 g/100 g. Ammonium bicarbonate buffer in combination with urea was applied for protein extraction, with concentration from 0.588 ± 0.047 to 4.140 ± 0.066 mg/mL. Corresponding electrophoresis data showed different protein profiles. UniProtKB data base research reveals two sorghum ATIs, P81367 and P81368; both reviewed and a targeted LC–MS/MS method was developed to analyze these. Quantifier peptides ELAAVPSR (P81367) and TYMVR (P81368) were identified and retained as biomarkers for relative quantification. Different reducing and alkylating agents were assessed and combination of tris (2 carboxyethyl) phosphine/iodoacetamide gave the best response. Linearity was demonstrated for the quantifier peptides with standard recovery between 92.2 and 107.6%. Nine sorghum cultivars presented up to 60 times lower ATI contents as compared to wheat samples. This data suggests that sorghum can effectively be considered as a good alternative to wheat.
Catechin Photolysis Suppression by Aluminum Chloride under Alkaline Conditions and Assessment with Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Yang Meei-Ju , Lee Shwu-Yuan , Liu Chieh-I , Chen Shih-Hsuan , Chen Iou-Zen , Su Tsung-Chen , Yuann Jeu-Ming P. , Cheng Chien-Wei , Huang Shiuh-Tsuen , Liang Ji-Yuan
Published: December 2020

Tea is rich in catechins and aluminum. In this study, the process of catechin photolysis was applied as a model for examining the effects of aluminum chloride (AlCl3) on the structural changes of catechin and the alteration of aluminum complexes under blue light irradiation (BLI) at pH 8 using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques. Additionally, the effects of anions on catechin upon the addition of AlCl3 and treatment with BLI were also studied. In this study, when 1 mM catechin was treated with BLI, a superoxide anion radical (O2•−) was generated in an air-saturated aqueous solution, in addition to forming a dimeric catechin (proanthocyanidin) via a photon-induced redox reaction. The relative percentage of catechin was found to be 59.0 and 95.7 for catechin treated with BLI and catechin upon the addition of 1 mM AlCl3 treated with BLI, respectively. It suggested that catechin treated with BLI could be suppressed by AlCl3, while AlCl3 did not form a complex with catechin in the photolytic system. However, under the same conditions, it was also found that the addition of AlCl3 inhibited the photolytic formation of O2•−, and reduced the generation of proanthocyanidin, suggesting that the disconnection of proanthocyanidin was achieved by AlCl3 acting as a catalyst under treatment with BLI. The influence of 1 mM fluoride (F−) and 1 mM oxalate (C2O42−) ions on the photolysis of 1 mM catechin upon the addition of 1 mM AlCl3 and treatment with BLI was found to be insignificant, implying that, during the photolysis of catechin, the Al species were either neutral or negatively charged and the aluminum species did not form a complex with anions in the photolytic system. Therefore, aluminum, which is an amphoteric species, has an inherent potential to stabilize the photolysis of catechin in an alkaline conditions, while suppressing the O2•− and proanthocyanidin generation via aluminum ion catalysis in the catechin/Al system under treatment with BLI.
A Compressive Review about Taxol®: History and Future Challenges
Authors: Gallego-Jara Julia , Lozano-Terol Gema , Sola-Martínez Rosa Alba , Cánovas-Díaz Manuel , de Diego Puente Teresa
Published: December 2020

Taxol®, which is also known as paclitaxel, is a chemotherapeutic agent widely used to treat different cancers. Since the discovery of its antitumoral activity, Taxol® has been used to treat over one million patients, making it one of the most widely employed antitumoral drugs. Taxol® was the first microtubule targeting agent described in the literature, with its main mechanism of action consisting of the disruption of microtubule dynamics, thus inducing mitotic arrest and cell death. However, secondary mechanisms for achieving apoptosis have also been demonstrated. Despite its wide use, Taxol® has certain disadvantages. The main challenges facing Taxol® are the need to find an environmentally sustainable production method based on the use of microorganisms, increase its bioavailability without exerting adverse effects on the health of patients and minimize the resistance presented by a high percentage of cells treated with paclitaxel. This review details, in a succinct manner, the main aspects of this important drug, from its discovery to the present day. We highlight the main challenges that must be faced in the coming years, in order to increase the effectiveness of Taxol® as an anticancer agent.
Direct Laser Writing of Transparent Polyimide Film for Supercapacitor
Authors: Huang Fei , Feng Guoying , Yin Jiajia , Zhou Sikun , Shen Li , Wang Shutong , Luo Yun
Published: December 2020

Direct laser writing (DLW) is a convenient approach for fabricating graphene-based flexible electronic devices. In this paper, laser-induced graphene was successfully prepared on a thin and transparent polyimide film through the DLW process. Experiments have demonstrated that interdigital thin film capacitor prepared by the DLW method has a high specific capacitance of 8.11 mF/cm2 and volume capacitance density of 3.16 F/cm3 (0.05 mA/cm2) due to the doped fluoride in the laser-induced graphene. The capacitance is about 20 times larger than the super-capacitor based non-transparent polyimide film of the same thickness. Owing to its thin, flexible, higher electrochemical characteristics, the transparent polyimide film is promising for integrating and powering portable and wearable electronics.
Baicalein, 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone and Myricetin as Potent Inhibitors of Human Ornithine Decarboxylase
Authors: Liu Yun-Chin , Liu Yi-Liang , Hsieh Ju-Yi , Wang Chang-Hsu , Lin Chi-Li , Liu Guang-Yaw , Hung Hui-Chih
Published: December 2020

Background: Human ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) is a well-known oncogene, and the discovery of ODC enzyme inhibitors is a beneficial strategy for cancer therapy and prevention. Methods: We examined the inhibitory effects of a variety of flavone and flavonol derivatives on ODC enzymatic activity, and performed in silico molecular docking of baicalein, 7,8-dihydroxyflavone and myricetin to the whole dimer of human ODC to investigate the possible binding site of these compounds on ODC. We also examined the cytotoxic effects of these compounds with cell-based studies. Results: Baicalein, 7,8-dihydroxyflavone and myricetin exhibited significant ODC suppression activity with IC50 values of 0.88 µM, 2.54 µM, and 7.3 µM, respectively, which were much lower than that of the active-site irreversible inhibitor α-DL-difluoromethylornithine (IC50, the half maximal inhibitory concentration, of approximately 100 µM). Kinetic studies and molecular docking simulations suggested that baicalein, and 7,8-dihydroxyflavone act as noncompetitive inhibitors that are hydrogen-bonded to the region near the active site pocket in the dimer interface of the enzyme. Baicalein and myricetin suppress cell growth and induce cellular apoptosis, and both of these compounds suppress the ODC-evoked anti-apoptosis of cells. Conclusions: Therefore, we suggest that the flavone or flavonol derivatives baicalein, 7,8-dihydroxyflavone, and myricetin are potent chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents that target ODC.
Vitamin C Transporters and Their Implications in Carcinogenesis
Authors: Linowiecka Kinga , Foksinski Marek , Brożyna Anna A.
Published: December 2020

Vitamin C is implicated in various bodily functions due to its unique properties in redox homeostasis. Moreover, vitamin C also plays a great role in restoring the activity of 2-oxoglutarate and Fe2+ dependent dioxygenases (2-OGDD), which are involved in active DNA demethylation (TET proteins), the demethylation of histones, and hypoxia processes. Therefore, vitamin C may be engaged in the regulation of gene expression or in a hypoxic state. Hence, vitamin C has acquired great interest for its plausible effects on cancer treatment. Since its conceptualization, the role of vitamin C in cancer therapy has been a controversial and disputed issue. Vitamin C is transferred to the cells with sodium dependent transporters (SVCTs) and glucose transporters (GLUT). However, it is unknown whether the impaired function of these transporters may lead to carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Notably, previous studies have identified SVCTs’ polymorphisms or their altered expression in some types of cancer. This review discusses the potential effects of vitamin C and the impaired SVCT function in cancers. The variations in vitamin C transporter genes may regulate the active transport of vitamin C, and therefore have an impact on cancer risk, but further studies are needed to thoroughly elucidate their involvement in cancer biology.
Evaluating the Effects of Grain of Isogenic Wheat Lines Differing in the Content of Anthocyanins in Mouse Models of Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Tikhonova Maria A. , Shoeva Olesya Yu. , Tenditnik Michael V. , Ovsyukova Marina V. , Akopyan Anna A. , Dubrovina Nina I. , Amstislavskaya Tamara G. , Khlestkina Elena K.
Published: December 2020

Functional foods enriched with plant polyphenols and anthocyanins in particular attract special attention due to multiple beneficial bioactive properties of the latter. We evaluated the effects of a grain diet rich in anthocyanins in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease induced by amyloid-beta (Aβ) and a transgenic mouse model of Parkinson’s disease (PD) with overexpression of human alpha-synuclein. The mice were kept at a diet that consisted of the wheat grain of near isogenic lines differing in anthocyanin content for five–six months. The anthocyanin-rich diet was safe and possessed positive effects on cognitive function. Anthocyanins prevented deficits in working memory induced by Aβ or a long-term grain mono-diet; they partially reversed episodic memory alterations. Both types of grain diets prolonged memory extinction and rescued its facilitation in the PD model. The dynamics of the extinction in the group fed with the anthocyanin-rich wheat was closer to that in a group of wild-type mice given standard chow. The anthocyanin-rich diet reduced alpha-synuclein accumulation and modulated microglial response in the brain of the transgenic mice including the elevated expression of arginase1 that marks M2 microglia. Thus, anthocyanin-rich wheat is suggested as a promising source of functional nutrition at the early stages of neurodegenerative disorders.
Ten SNPs May Affect Type 2 Diabetes Risk in Interaction with Prenatal Exposure to Chinese Famine
Authors: Song Chao , Ding Caicui , Yuan Fan , Feng Ganyu , Ma Yanning , Liu Ailing
Published: December 2020

Increasing studies have demonstrated that gene and famine may interact on type 2 diabetes risk. The data derived from the cross-sectional 2010–2012 China National Nutrition and Health Survey (CNNHS) was examined to explore whether gene and famine interacted to influence type 2 diabetes risk. In total, 2216 subjects were involved. The subjects born in 1960 and 1961 were selected as the famine-exposed group, whereas subjects born in 1963 were selected as the unexposed group. A Mass Array system was used to detect the genotypes of 50 related single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Interactions were found between prenatal exposure to famine and ten SNPs (rs10401969, rs10886471, rs10946398, rs1470579, rs2796441, rs340874, rs3794991, rs5015480, rs7961581, and rs9470794) on type 2 diabetes risk after adjustments. The stratified results showed that famine exposure exacerbated the effect of CILP2-rs10401969 to fasting serum insulin (FINS), GRK5-rs10886471 to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and FINS, IGF2BP2-rs1470579 to FINS, TLE1-rs2796441 to impaired fasting glucose (IFG), PROX1-rs340874 to impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), GATAD2A-rs3794991 to FINS, TSPAN8/LGR5-rs7961581 to FPG, and ZFAND3-rs9470794 to IGT and FINS. Famine exposure weakened the effect of CDKAL1-rs10946398 to type 2 diabetes. Famine exposure weakened the effect of HHEX-rs5015480 to IFG, but exacerbated the effect of HHEX-rs5015480 to FINS. The present study suggests that ten SNPs may affect type 2 diabetes risk in interaction with prenatal exposure to Chinese famine.
Motivational Interviewing Adapted to Group Setting for the Treatment of Relapse in the Behavioral Therapy of Obesity. A Clinical Audit
Authors: Centis Elena , Petroni Maria L. , Ghirelli Veronica , Cioni Mattia , Navacchia Paola , Guberti Emilia , Marchesini Giulio
Published: December 2020

Motivational interviewing (MI) is devised to change unhealthy behaviors by increasing motivation. We adapted MI to a group format for the treatment of relapse during the behavioral treatment of obesity and performed a clinical audit to evaluate its effectiveness in stopping weight regain. The program was structured in seven weekly sessions, plus a 6-month follow-up. Patients (n = 86) completed a questionnaire on motivation to change in both healthy diet and physical activity, and a self-reported measurement of calorie intake and physical activity at baseline, at program end and at 6-month follow-up. The attendance to the program was high, with only 13 patients (15%) not completing the program and 24% not attending the 6-month follow-up. By the end of follow up, the prevalence of patients in either precontemplation or contemplation was reduced from over 60% at enrollment to approximately 20%, whereas the sum of patients in action or maintenance stages was increased from 9.5% in healthy diet and 14% in physical activity to 39.7% and 41.3%, respectively. These changes translated into significant behavioral changes (mean calorie intake, −13%; total physical activity, +125%; sedentary time, −8%) and finally into reduced body weight ( −3%). We conclude that MI programs adapted for groups may be used to stop relapse in individuals following a behavioral intervention for obesity.
Fruit and Vegetable Consumption and Incident Prefrailty and Frailty in Community-Dwelling Older People: The English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Kojima Gotaro , Iliffe Steve , Jivraj Stephen , Walters Kate
Published: December 2020

Background: There is limited evidence in the literature regarding associations between fruit and vegetable consumption and risk of frailty. Objective: To examine associations between fruit and vegetable consumption and risk of incident frailty and incident prefrailty/frailty. Design: A prospective panel study. Setting and Subjects: 2634 non-frail community-dwelling men and women aged 60 years or older from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). Methods: Fruit and vegetable consumption/day was measured using a self-completion questionnaire at baseline. Frailty status was measured at baseline and follow-up was based on modified frailty phenotype criteria. Four-year incident frailty was examined among 2634 robust or prefrail participants, and incident prefrailty/frailty was measured among 1577 robust participants. Results: Multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for age, gender, and other confounders showed that fruit and vegetable consumption was not associated with incident frailty risks among robust or prefrail participants. However, robust participants consuming 5–7.5 portions of 80 g per day (odds ratio (OR) = 0.56, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.37–0.85, p < 0.01) and 7.5–10 portions per day (OR = 0.46, 95%CI = 0.27–0.77, p < 0.01) had significantly lower risk of incident prefrailty/frailty compared with those consuming 0–2.5 portions/day, whereas those consuming 10 or more portions/day did not (OR = 1.10, 95%CI = 0.54–2.26, p = 0.79). Analysis repeated with fruit and vegetable separately showed overall similar results. Conclusions: Robust older adults without frailty who eat current U.K. government recommendations for fruit and vegetable consumption (5–10 portions/day) had significantly reduced risks of incident prefrailty/frailty compared with those who only eat small amount (0–2.5 portions/day). Older people can be advised that eating sufficient amounts of fruit and vegetable may be beneficial for frailty prevention.
Exploring Patterns of Disturbed Eating in Psychosis: A Scoping Review
Authors: Stogios Nicolette , Smith Emily , Asgariroozbehani Roshanak , Hamel Laurie , Gdanski Alexander , Selby Peter , Sockalingam Sanjeev , Graff-Guerrero Ariel , Taylor Valerie , Agarwal Sri , Hahn Margaret
Published: December 2020

Disturbed eating behaviours have been widely reported in psychotic disorders since the early 19th century. There is also evidence that antipsychotic (AP) treatment may induce binge eating or other related compulsive eating behaviours. It is therefore possible that abnormal eating patterns may contribute to the significant weight gain and other metabolic disturbances observed in patients with psychosis. In this scoping review, we aimed to explore the underlying psychopathological and neurobiological mechanisms of disrupted eating behaviours in psychosis spectrum disorders and the role of APs in this relationship. A systematic search identified 35 studies that met our eligibility criteria and were included in our qualitative synthesis. Synthesizing evidence from self-report questionnaires and food surveys, we found that patients with psychosis exhibit increased appetite and craving for fatty food, as well as increased caloric intake and snacking, which may be associated with increased disinhibition. Limited evidence from neuroimaging studies suggested that AP-naïve first episode patients exhibit similar neural processing of food to healthy controls, while chronic AP exposure may lead to decreased activity in satiety areas and increased activity in areas associated with reward anticipation. Overall, this review supports the notion that AP use can lead to disturbed eating patterns in patients, which may contribute to AP-induced weight gain. However, intrinsic illness-related effects on eating behaviors remain less well elucidated, and many confounding factors as well as variability in study designs limits interpretation of existing literature in this field and precludes firm conclusions from being made.
Hylocereus polyrhizus Peel Extract Retards Alcoholic Liver Disease Progression by Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Responses in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Yeh Wan-Ju , Tsai Chia-Chun , Ko Jung , Yang Hsin-Yi
Published: December 2020

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) has become a health problem as alcohol consumption has increased annually. Hepatic lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation are important factors in the progression of ALD. Red pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus (Weber) Britt. & Rose) peel is rich in polyphenols and betanins, which possess antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of red pitaya peel extract (PPE) on ALD and explore the associated mechanisms. C57BL/6 J mice were administered an ethanol liquid diet for 11 weeks with or without two different doses of PPE (500 and 1000 mg/kg BW). PPE treatment significantly ameliorated liver injury and hepatic fat accumulation, and it improved hepatic lipid metabolism via increases in AMPK and PPAR-α protein expression and a decrease in SREBP-1 expression. In addition, PPE inhibited CYP2E1 and Nrf2 protein expression, reduced endotoxin levels in the serum, and decreased TLR4 and MyD88 expression and inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and IL-1β levels in the liver. In conclusion, these findings suggest that PPE may prevent the progression of ALD by modulating lipid metabolism and reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses.
Circulating Melanoma-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: Impact on Melanoma Diagnosis, Progression Monitoring, and Treatment Response
Authors: Bollard Stephanie M. , Casalou Cristina , Goh Chia Yin , Tobin Desmond J. , Kelly Pamela , McCann Amanda , Potter Shirley M.
Published: December 2020

Malignant melanoma, one of the most aggressive human malignancies, is responsible for 80% of skin cancer deaths. Whilst early detection of disease progression or metastasis can improve patient survival, this remains a challenge due to the lack of reliable biomarkers. Importantly, these clinical challenges are not unique to humans, as melanoma affects many other species, including companion animals, such as the dog and horse. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are tiny nanoparticles involved in cell-to-cell communication. Several protein and genomic EV markers have been described in the literature, as well as a wide variety of methods for isolating EVs from body fluids. As such, they may be valuable biomarkers in cancer and may address some clinical challenges in the management melanoma. This review aimed to explore the translational applications of EVs as biomarkers in melanoma, as well as their role in the clinical setting in humans and animals. A summary of melanoma-specific protein and genomic EV markers is presented, followed by a discussion of the role EVs in monitoring disease progression and treatment response. Finally, herein, we reviewed the advantages and disadvantages of methods utilised to isolate EVs from bodily fluids in melanoma patients (human and animals) and describe some of the challenges that will need to be addressed before EVs can be introduced in the clinical setting.
Anticancer Effect of Citrus hystrix DC. Leaf Extract and Its Bioactive Constituents Citronellol and, Citronellal on the Triple Negative Breast Cancer MDA-MB-231 Cell Line
Authors: Ho Yathsoeung , Suphrom Nungruthai , Daowtak Krai , Potup Pachuen , Thongsri Yordhathai , Usuwanthim Kanchana
Published: December 2020

Triple negative breast cancer is one of the most aggressive breast cancer type with abilities of early metastasis and chemoresistance. The tropical plant Citrus hystrix DC. has been reported to promote many biological activities including anticancer. However, the effect of C. hystrix against triple negative breast cancer has not yet been identified. This study aimed to evaluate the anticancer properties of C. hystrix leaf extract and its bioactive constituents citronellol and citronellal against the triple negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cell line. C. hystrix leaves were powdered and sequentially macerated. The in vitro anticancer effects of C. hystrix leaf extracts, and its bioactive constituents (citronellol and citronellal) were evaluated against MDA-MB-231 cell line using cytotoxic MTT assay, cell proliferation, wound scratch migration, colony formation, cell cycle, apoptosis assay, Hoechst staining, RT-qPCR, and Western blot analysis. Results showed that crude hexane extract, citronellol, and citronellal significantly reduced cell proliferation, colony formation, and cell migration by inducing cell cycle arrest, while also inducing apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells through inhibition of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression, leading to activation of the caspase-3-dependent pathway. This study is the first report to demonstrate the effect of C. hystrix, citronellol, and citronellal against triple negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells.
Can Leaves and Stems of Rubus idaeus L. Handle Candida albicans Biofilms?
Authors: Bernard Clément , Juin Camille , Vitry Marine , Le Van Thanh Danh , Verdon Julien , Toullec Anne-Solène , Imbert Christine , Girardot Marion
Published: December 2020

Candida albicans is an opportunistic pathogen involved in many infections, especially linked to implanted medical devices. Its ability to form biofilms complicates the treatment of these infections as few molecules are active against sessile C. albicans. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of leaves, three-month-old and one-year-old stems of Rubus idaeus L. against C. albicans biofilm growth. Extractions with a polarity gradient were carried out on hydroacetonic extracts and followed by fractionation steps. The obtained extracts and fractions were tested for their anti-biofilm growth activity against C. albicans using XTT method. Compounds of active subfractions were identified by LC-MS. The hexane extracts from leaves and stems were the most active against the fungus with IC50 at 500 and 250 µg/mL. Their bioguided fractionation led to 4 subfractions with IC50 between 62.5 and 125 µg/mL. Most of the components identified in active subfractions were fatty acids and terpenoïds.
Supramolecular and Macromolecular Matrix Nanocarriers for Drug Delivery in Inflammation-Associated Skin Diseases
Authors: Jebbawi Ranime , Fruchon Séverine , Turrin Cédric-Olivier , Blanzat Muriel , Poupot Rémy
Published: December 2020

Skin is our biggest organ. It interfaces our body with its environment. It is an efficient barrier to control the loss of water, the regulation of temperature, and infections by skin-resident and environmental pathogens. The barrier function of the skin is played by the stratum corneum (SC). It is a lipid barrier associating corneocytes (the terminally differentiated keratinocytes) and multilamellar lipid bilayers. This intricate association constitutes a very cohesive system, fully adapted to its role. One consequence of this efficient organization is the virtual impossibility for active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) to cross the SC to reach the inner layers of the skin after topical deposition. There are several ways to help a drug to cross the SC. Physical methods and chemical enhancers of permeation are a possibility. These are invasive and irritating methods. Vectorization of the drugs through nanocarriers is another way to circumvent the SC. This mini-review focuses on supramolecular and macromolecular matrices designed and implemented for skin permeation, excluding vesicular nanocarriers. Examples highlight the entrapment of anti-inflammatory API to treat inflammatory disorders of the skin.
Intranasal 17β-Estradiol Modulates Spatial Learning and Memory in a Rat Model of Surgical Menopause
Authors: Prakapenka Alesia V. , Peña Veronica L. , Strouse Isabel , Northup-Smith Steven , Schrier Ally , Ahmed Kinza , Bimonte-Nelson Heather A. , Sirianni Rachael W.
Published: December 2020

Exogenously administered 17β-estradiol (E2) can improve spatial learning and memory, although E2 also exerts undesired effects on peripheral organs. Clinically, E2 has been solubilized in cyclodextrin for intranasal administration, which enhances brain-specific delivery. Prior work shows that the cyclodextrin structure impacts region-specific brain distribution of intranasally administered small molecules. Here, we investigated (1) cyclodextrin type-specific modulation of intranasal E2 brain distribution, and (2) cognitive and peripheral tissue effects of intranasal E2 in middle-aged ovariectomized rats. First, brain and peripheral organ distribution of intranasally administered, tritiated E2 was measured for E2 solubilized freely or in one of four cyclodextrin formulations. The E2-cyclodextrin formulation with greatest E2 uptake in cognitive brain regions versus uterine horns was then compared to free E2 on learning, memory, and uterine measures. Free E2 improved spatial reference memory, whereas E2-cyclodextrin impaired spatial working memory compared to their respective controls. Both E2 formulations increased uterine horn weights relative to controls, with E2-cyclodextrin resulting in the greatest uterine horn weight, suggesting increased uterine stimulation. Thus, intranasal administration of freely solubilized E2 is a strategic delivery tool that can yield a cognitively beneficial impact of the hormone alongside decreased peripheral effects compared to intranasal administration of cyclodextrin solubilized E2.
Reactive Sintering of Ground Tire Rubber (GTR) Modified by a Trans-Polyoctenamer Rubber and Curing Additives
Authors: Zedler Łukasz , Kowalkowska-Zedler Daria , Colom Xavier , Cañavate Javier , Saeb Mohammad Reza , Formela Krzysztof
Published: December 2020

The proposed method of ground tire rubber (GTR) utilization involves the application of trans-polyoctenamer rubber (TOR), a commercially available waste rubber modifier. The idea was to investigate the influence of various curing additives (sulfur, N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazole sulfenamide (CBS), dibenzothiazole disulfide (MBTS) and di-(2-ethyl)hexylphosphorylpolysulfide (SDT)) on curing characteristics, physico-mechanical, thermal, acoustic properties as well as the morphology of modified GTR, in order to evaluate the possibility of reclaiming GTR and the co-cross-linking between applied components. The results showed that the presence of the modifier without the addition of curing additives hinders the physico-mechanical properties of revulcanized GTR. The addition of SDT, CBS, MBTS and sulfur change the melting kinetics of TOR, indicating partial degradation and/or co-cross-linking between components. In the studied conditions, the best mechanical properties were obtained by the samples cured with sulfur. The morphology analysis, combined with the physico-mechanical results, indicated that when the surface of the GTR is more developed, obtained by the addition of TOR, the properties of the GTR improve.
Surface Modification of Polyamides by Gaseous Plasma—Review and Scientific Challenges
Authors: Primc Gregor
Published: December 2020

A review of the most significant scientific achievements in the field of surface modification of polyamides by non-equilibrium plasma treatments is presented. Most authors employed atmospheric pressure discharges and reported improved wettability. The super-hydrophilic surface finish was only achieved using a low-pressure plasma reactor and prolonged treatment time, enabling both the nanostructuring and functionalization with polar functional groups. The average increase of the oxygen concentration as probed by XPS was about 10 at%, while the changes in nitrogen concentrations were marginal in almost all cases. The final static water contact angle decreased with the increasing treatment time, and the oxygen concentration decreased with the increasing discharge power. The need for plasma characterization for the interpretation of experimental results is stressed.
Effect of the Strain Rate on Damage in Filled EPDM during Single and Cyclic Loadings
Authors: Candau Nicolas , Oguz Oguzhan , Peuvrel-Disdier Edith , Bouvard Jean-Luc , Maspoch María Lluïsa , Corvec Guillaume , Pradille Christophe , Billon Noëlle
Published: December 2020

The effect of the strain rate on damage in carbon black filled Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer rubber (EPDM)stretched during single and multiple uniaxial loading is investigated. This has been performed by analyzing the stress–strain response, the evolution of damage by Digital Image Correlation (DIC), the associated dissipative heat source by InfraRed thermography (IR), and the chains network damage by swelling. The strain rates were selected to cover the transition from quasi-static to medium strain rate conditions. In single loading conditions, the increase of the strain rate yields in a preferential damage of the filler network while the rubber network is preserved. Such damage is accompanied by a stress softening and an adiabatic heat source rise. Conversely, increasing the strain rate in cyclic loading conditions yields in a filler network accommodation and a high self-heating whose combined effect is proposed as a possible cause of the ability of filled EPDM to limit damage by reducing cavities opening during loading, and favoring cavities closing upon unloading.