bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Cryostructuring Treatment on Some Properties of Xanthan and Karaya Cryogels for Food Applications
Authors: Coria-Hernández Jonathan , Meléndez-Pérez Rosalía , Méndez-Albores Abraham , Arjona-Román José Luis
Published: May 2021

Cryogels are novel materials because the manufacturing process known as cryostructuring allows biopolymers to change their properties as a result of repeated controlled freeze–thaw cycles. Hydrogels of xanthan and karaya gums were evaluated after undergoing up to four controlled freeze–thaw cycles in indirect contact with liquid nitrogen (up to −150 °C) to form cryogels. Changes in structural, molecular, rheological, and thermal properties were evaluated and compared to those of their respective hydrogels. Samples were also analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy with Attenuated Total Reflection (FTIR-ATR), Rotational Rheology (RR), Modulated Differential Scanning Calorimetry (MDSC) and zeta potential (ζ). In general, significant differences (p < 0.05) between the numbers of freeze–thaw cycles were found. Karaya cryogels were not stable to repeated cycles of cryostructuring such as the three-cycle xanthan cryogel, which has the best structural order (95.55%), molecular interactions, and thermal stability, which allows the generation of a novel material with improved thermal and structural properties that can be used as an alternative in food preservation.
Chemistry and Pharmacology of Cyperaceae Stilbenoids: A Review
Authors: Dávid Csilla Zsuzsanna , Hohmann Judit , Vasas Andrea
Published: May 2021

Cyperaceae is a cosmopolitan plant family with approx. 5000 species distributed worldwide. Several members of this family are used in traditional medicines for the treatment of different diseases. In the last few decades, constituents with great chemical diversity were isolated from sedges, and a wide range of biological activities were detected either for crude extracts or for pure compounds. Among the isolated compounds, phenolic derivatives are the most important, especially stilbenoids, and flavonoids. To date, more than 60 stilbenoids were isolated from 28 Cyperaceae species. Pharmacological investigation of Cyperaceae stilbenoids revealed that several compounds possess promising activities; mainly antiproliferative, antibacterial, antioxidant and anthelmintic effects. Isolation, synthesis and pharmacological investigation of stilbenes are increasing constantly. As Cyperaceae species are very good sources of a wide variety of stilbenes, and several of them occur in large amount worldwide, they are worthy for phytochemical and pharmacological investigations. Moreover, stilbenes are important from chemotaxonomical point of view, and they play a key role in plant defense mechanisms as well. This review summarizes the stilbenoids isolated from sedges, and their biological activities.
Benzodiazepines: Drugs with Chemical Skeletons Suitable for the Preparation of Metallacycles with Potential Pharmacological Activity
Authors: da Silva Artur V. , Meneghetti Simoni M. P. , Meneghetti Mario R.
Published: May 2021

The synthesis of organometallic compounds with potential pharmacological activity has attracted the attention of many research groups, aiming to take advantage of aspects that the presence of the metal-carbon bond can bring to the design of new pharmaceutical drugs. In this context, we have gathered studies reported in the literature in which psychoactive benzodiazepine drugs were used as ligands in the preparation of organometallic and metal complexes and provide details on some of their biological effects. We also highlight that most commonly known benzodiazepine-based drugs display molecular features that allow the preparation of metallacycles via C-H activation. These organometallic compounds merit further attention regarding their potential biological effects, not only in terms of psychoactive drugs but also in the search for drug replacements, for example, for cancer treatments.
Effects of Substitution Position of Carbazole-Dibenzofuran Based High Triplet Energy Hosts to Device Stability of Blue Phosphorescent Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Choi Kyung Hyun , Kim Jae Min , Chung Won Jae , Lee Jun Yeob
Published: May 2021

High triplet energy hosts were developed through the modification of the substitution position of carbazole units. Two carbazole-dibenzofuran-derived compounds, 9,9′-(dibenzo[b,d]furan-2,6-diyl)bis(9H-carbazole) (26CzDBF) and 4,6-di(9H-carbazol-9-yl)dibenzo[b,d]furan (46CzDBF), were synthesized for achieving high triplet energy hosts. In comparison with the reported hole transport type host, 2,8-di(9H-carbazol-9-yl)dibenzo[b,d]furan (28CzDBF), 26CzDBF and 46CzDBF maintained high triplet energy over 2.95 eV. The device performances of the hosts were evaluated with electron transport type host, 2-phenyl-4, 6-bis(3-(triphenylsilyl)phenyl)-1,3,5-triazine (mSiTrz), to comprise a mixed host system. The deep blue phosphorescent device of 26CzDBF:mSiTrz with [[5-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-3-phenyl-1H-imidazo[4,5-b]pyrazin-1-yl-2(3H)-ylidene]-1,2-phenylene]bis[[6-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-3-phenyl-1H-imidazo[4,5-b]pyrazin-1-yl-2(3H)-ylidene]-1,2-phenylene]iridium (Ir(cb)3) dopant exhibited high external quantum efficiency of 22.9% with a color coordinate of (0.14, 0.16) and device lifetime of 1400 h at 100 cd m−2. The device lifetime was extended by 75% compared to the device lifetime of 28CzDBF:mSiTrz (800 h). These results demonstrated that the asymmetric and symmetric substitution of carbazole can make differences in the device performance of the carbazole- and dibenzofuran- derived hosts.
Structural Refolding and Thermal Stability of Myoglobin in the Presence of Mixture of Crowders: Importance of Various Interactions for Protein Stabilization in Crowded Conditions
Authors: Parray Zahoor Ahmad , Ahmad Faizan , Hassan Md. Imtaiyaz , Ahmed Anwar , Almajhdi Fahad N. , Malik Ajamaluddin , Hussain Tajamul , Islam Asimul
Published: May 2021

The intracellular environment is overcrowded with a range of molecules (small and large), all of which influence protein conformation. As a result, understanding how proteins fold and stay functional in such crowded conditions is essential. Several in vitro experiments have looked into the effects of macromolecular crowding on different proteins. However, there are hardly any reports regarding small molecular crowders used alone and in mixtures to observe their effects on the structure and stability of the proteins, which mimics of the cellular conditions. Here we investigate the effect of different mixtures of crowders, ethylene glycol (EG) and its polymer polyethylene glycol (PEG 400 Da) on the structural and thermal stability of myoglobin (Mb). Our results show that monomer (EG) has no significant effect on the structure of Mb, while the polymer disrupts its structure and decreases its stability. Conversely, the additive effect of crowders showed structural refolding of the protein to some extent. Moreover, the calorimetric binding studies of the protein showed very weak interactions with the mixture of crowders. Usually, we can assume that soft interactions induce structural perturbations while exclusion volume effects stabilize the protein structure; therefore, we hypothesize that under in vivo crowded conditions, both phenomena occur and maintain the stability and function of proteins.
Deglycosylated Azithromycin Attenuates Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis via the TGF-β1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Ruan Hao , Gao Shaoyan , Li Shuangling , Luan Jiaoyan , Jiang Qiuyan , Li Xiaohe , Yin Huijun , Zhou Honggang , Yang Cheng
Published: May 2021

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive, life-threatening lung disease characterized by the proliferation of myofibroblasts and deposition of extracellular matrix that results in irreversible distortion of the lung structure and the formation of focal fibrosis. The molecular mechanism of IPF is not fully understood, and there is no satisfactory treatment. However, most studies suggest that abnormal activation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) can promote fibroblast activation and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) to induce pulmonary fibrosis. Deglycosylated azithromycin (Deg-AZM) is a compound we previously obtained by removing glycosyls from azithromycin; it was demonstrated to exert little or no antibacterial effects. Here, we discovered a new function of Deg-AZM in pulmonary fibrosis. In vivo experiments showed that Deg-AZM could significantly reduce bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and restore respiratory function. Further study revealed the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Deg-AZM in vivo. In vitro experiments showed that Deg-AZM inhibited TGF-β1 signaling, weakened the activation and differentiation of lung fibroblasts, and inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMT in alveolar epithelial cells. In conclusion, our findings show that Deg-AZM exerts antifibrotic effects by inhibiting TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast activation and EMT.
Volatiles and Antifungal-Antibacterial-Antiviral Activity of South African Salvia spp. Essential Oils Cultivated in Uniform Conditions
Authors: Najar Basma , Mecacci Giulia , Nardi Valeria , Cervelli Claudio , Nardoni Simona , Mancianti Francesca , Ebani Valentina Virginia , Giannecchini Simone , Pistelli Luisa
Published: May 2021

Spontaneous emissions of S. dentata Aiton and S. scabra Thunb., as well as the essential oil (EO) composition of the cited species, together with S. aurea L., were investigated. The chemical profile of the first two species is reported here for the first time. Moreover, in vitro tests were performed to evaluate the antifungal activity of these EOs on Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Microsporum canis, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Fusarium solani. Secondly, the EO antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus pseudointermedius was examined, and their antiviral efficacy against the H1N1 influenza virus was assessed. Leaf volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as well as the EOs obtained from the arial part of Salvia scabra, were characterized by a high percentage of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (97.8% and 76.6%, respectively), mostly represented by an equal amount of germacrene D (32.8% and 32.7%, respectively). Both leaf and flower spontaneous emissions of S. dentata, as well as the EO composition, showed a prevalence of monoterpenes divided into a more or less equal amount of hydrocarbon and oxygenated compounds. Interestingly, its EO had a non-negligible percentage of oxygenated sesquiterpenes (29.5%). S. aurea EO, on the contrary, was rich in sesquiterpenes, both hydrocarbons and oxygenated compounds (41.5% and 33.5%, respectively). S. dentata EO showed good efficacy (Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC): 0.5%) against M. canis. The tested EOs were not active against E. coli and S. aureus, whereas a low inhibition of S. dentata EO was observed on S. pseudointermedius (MIC = 10%). Once again, S. dentata EO showed a very good H1N1 inhibition; contrariwise, S. aurea EO was completely inactive against this virus. The low quantity of S. scabra EO made it impossible to test its biological activity. S. dentata EO exhibited interesting new perspectives for medicinal and industrial uses.
Noval Dual-Emission Fluorescence Carbon Dots as a Ratiometric Probe for Cu2+ and ClO− Detection
Authors: Guo Jiaqing , Liu Aikun , Zeng Yutian , Cai Haojie , Ye Shuai , Li Hao , Yan Wei , Zhou Feifan , Song Jun , Qu Junle
Published: May 2021

The use of carbon dots (CDs) with dual emission based on ratiometric fluorescence has been attracting attention in recent times for more accurate ion detection since they help avoid interference from background noise, probe concentration, and complexity. Herein, novel dual-emission nitrogen-doped CDs (NCDs) were prepared by a simple method for Cu2+ and ClO- detection. The NCDs showed excellent anti-interference ability and selectivity for different emissions. In addition, a good linear relationship was observed between the fluorescence intensity (FI) of the NCD solutions in different emissions with Cu2+ (0–90 μM) and ClO− (0–75 μM). The limits of both Cu2+ detection and ClO− were very low, at 17.7 and 11.6 nM, respectively. The NCDs developed herein also showed a good recovery rate in water for Cu2+ and ClO− detection. Hence, they are expected to have a more extensive application prospect in real samples.
Mechanical and Water Uptake Properties of Epoxy Nanocomposites with Surfactant-Modified Functionalized Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Uthaman Arya , Lal Hiran Mayookh , Li Chenggao , Xian Guijun , Thomas Sabu
Published: May 2021

The superior mechanical properties of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) play a significant role in the improvement of the mechanical and thermal stability of an epoxy matrix. However, the agglomeration of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in the epoxy is a common challenge and should be resolved to achieve the desired enhancement effect. The present paper investigated the thermal, mechanical, and water uptake properties of epoxy nanocomposites with surfactant-modified MWCNTs. The nanocomposites were prepared through the incorporation of different weight concentrations of MWCNTs into the epoxy matrix. Comparative analysis of neat epoxy and epoxy/CNT nanocomposites were conducted through thermal, mechanical, microscopic, and water uptake tests to reveal the improvement mechanism. The homogenous distribution of the CNTs in the epoxy was achieved by wrapping the surfactant onto the CNTs. The addition of surfactant-modified CNTs into the epoxy caused an obvious increase in the mechanical and thermal properties. This improvement mechanism could be attributed to the uniform dispersion of the CNTs in the epoxy matrix reducing the free volume between the polymer chains and restricting the chain segmental mobility, leading to strong interfacial bonding and an efficient load transfer capability between the CNTs and the epoxy matrix. However, the mechanical and thermal properties of the epoxy/CNT nanocomposite decreased owing to the agglomeration effect when the concentration of the CNTs exceeded the optimal percentage of 1.5%. Additionally, the CNTs could impart a reduction in the wettability of the surface of the epoxy/CNT nanocomposite, leading to the increase in the contact angle and a reduction in the water uptake, which was significant to improve the durability of the epoxy. Moreover, the higher weight concentration (2%) of the CNTs showed a greater water uptake owing to agglomeration, which may cause the formation of plenty of microcracks and microvoids in the nanocomposite.
Graphene/Reduced Graphene Oxide-Carbon Nanotubes Composite Electrodes: From Capacitive to Battery-Type Behaviour
Authors: Okhay Olena , Tkach Alexander
Published: May 2021

Thanks to the advanced technologies for energy generation such as solar cells and thermo- or piezo-generators the amount of electricity transformed from light, heat or mechanical pressure sources can be significantly enhanced. However, there is still a demand for effective storage devices to conserve electrical energy which addresses the wide range of large stationary applications from electric vehicles to small portable devices. Among the large variety of energy-storage systems available today, electrochemical energy sources and, in particular, supercapacitors (SC), are rather promising in terms of cost, scaling, power management, life cycle and safety. Therefore, this review surveys recent achievements in the development of SC based on composites of such carbon-derived materials as graphene (G) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with carbon nanotubes (CNT). Various factors influencing the specific capacitance are discussed, while specific energy and power as well as cycling stability of SC with G/rGO-CNT composite electrode materials are overviewed.
Efficient Structural Relaxation of Polycrystalline Graphene Models
Authors: D’Ambrosio Federico , Barkema Joris , Barkema Gerard T.
Published: May 2021

Large samples of experimentally produced graphene are polycrystalline. For the study of this material, it helps to have realistic computer samples that are also polycrystalline. A common approach to produce such samples in computer simulations is based on the method of Wooten, Winer, and Weaire, originally introduced for the simulation of amorphous silicon. We introduce an early rejection variation of their method, applied to graphene, which exploits the local nature of the structural changes to achieve a significant speed-up in the relaxation of the material, without compromising the dynamics. We test it on a 3200 atoms sample, obtaining a speed-up between one and two orders of magnitude. We also introduce a further variation called early decision specifically for relaxing large samples even faster, and we test it on two samples of 10,024 and 20,000 atoms, obtaining a further speed-up of an order of magnitude. Furthermore, we provide a graphical manipulation tool to remove unwanted artifacts in a sample, such as bond crossings.
Effect of Co Doping on Electrocatalytic Performance of Co-NiS2/CoS2 Heterostructures
Authors: Peng Zehui , Lou Shuai , Gao Yuan , Kong Lijun , Yan Shancheng , Wang Ka , Song Haizeng
Published: May 2021

There are abundant water resources in nature, and hydrogen production from electrolyzed water can be one of the main ways to obtain green and sustainable energy. Traditional water electrolysis uses precious metals as catalysts, but it is difficult to apply in massive volumes due to low reserves and high prices. It is still a challenge to develop hydrogen electrocatalysts with excellent performance but low cost to further improve the efficiency of hydrogen production. This article reported a potential candidate, the Co-NiS2/CoS2 (material is based on NiS2, and after Co doping, The NiS2/CoS2 heterostructure is formed) heterostructures, prepared by hydrothermal method with carbon paper as the substrate. In a 0.5 M sulfuric acid solution, the hydrogen evolution reaction with Co-NiS2/CoS2 as the electrode showed excellent catalytic performance. When the Co (Cobalt) doping concentration is increased to 27%, the overpotential is −133.3 mV, which is a drop of 81 mV compared with −214.3 mV when it is not doped. The heterostructure formed after doping also has good stability. After 800 CV cycles, the difference in overpotential is only 3 mV. The significant improvement of the catalytic performance can be attributed to the significant changes in the crystal structure and properties of the doped heterostructures, which provide an effective method for efficient electrocatalytic hydrogen production.
Transition Metal Oxide Electrode Materials for Supercapacitors: A Review of Recent Developments
Authors: Liang Ruibin , Du Yongquan , Xiao Peng , Cheng Junyang , Yuan Shengjin , Chen Yonglong , Yuan Jian , Chen Jianwen
Published: May 2021

In the past decades, the energy consumption of nonrenewable fossil fuels has been increasing, which severely threatens human life. Thus, it is very urgent to develop renewable and reliable energy storage devices with features of environmental harmlessness and low cost. High power density, excellent cycle stability, and a fast charge/discharge process make supercapacitors a promising energy device. However, the energy density of supercapacitors is still less than that of ordinary batteries. As is known to all, the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors is largely dependent on electrode materials. In this review, we firstly introduced six typical transition metal oxides (TMOs) for supercapacitor electrodes, including RuO2, Co3O4, MnO2, ZnO, XCo2O4 (X = Mn, Cu, Ni), and AMoO4 (A = Co, Mn, Ni, Zn). Secondly, the problems of these TMOs in practical application are presented and the corresponding feasible solutions are clarified. Then, we summarize the latest developments of the six TMOs for supercapacitor electrodes. Finally, we discuss the developing trend of supercapacitors and give some recommendations for the future of supercapacitors.
Plasma and Urinary Amino Acid-Derived Catabolites as Potential Biomarkers of Protein and Amino Acid Deficiency in Rats
Authors: Moro Joanna , Khodorova Nadezda , Tomé Daniel , Gaudichon Claire , Tardivel Catherine , Berton Thierry , Martin Jean-Charles , Azzout-Marniche Dalila , Jouan-Rimbaud Bouveresse Delphine
Published: May 2021

Objective: Dietary intakes must cover protein and essential amino acid (EAA) requirements. For this purpose, different methods have been developed such as the nitrogen balance method, factorial method, or AA tracer studies. However, these methods are either invasive or imprecise, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO, 2013) recommends new methods and, in particular, metabolomics. The aim of this study is to determine total protein/EAA requirement in the plasma and urine of growing rats. Methods: 36 weanling rats were fed with diets containing 3, 5, 8, 12, 15, and 20% protein for 3 weeks. During experimentation, urine was collected using metabolic cages, and blood from the portal vein and vena was taken at the end of the experiment. Metabolomics analyses were performed using LC-MS, and the data were analyzed with a multivariate analysis model, partial least Squares (PLS) regression, and independent component-discriminant analysis (ICDA). Each discriminant metabolite identified by PLS or ICDA was tested by one-way ANOVA to evaluate the effect of diet. Results: PLS and ICDA allowed us to identify discriminating metabolites between different diet groups. Protein deficiency led to an increase in the AA catabolism enzyme systems inducing the production of breakdown metabolites in the plasma and urine. Conclusion: These results indicate that metabolites are specific for the state of EAA deficiency and sufficiency. Some types of biomarkers such as AA degradation metabolites appear to be specific candidates for protein/EAA requirement.
Prevalence and Characteristics of Orthorectic Disorders in Adolescence and Young People: Polish Preliminary Studies
Authors: Kaźmierczak-Wojtaś Natalia , Patryn Rafał , Zagaja Anna , Drozd Mariola , Niedzielski Antoni
Published: May 2021

The aim of this work was to assess orthorectic behaviors among young people and to evaluate their attitudes towards caring for their health. The study was conducted in 2019 on a group of 538 respondents aged 16–35. After analysis, 65 questionnaires were eliminated from further research, and the assessment of orthorectic disorders was performed using a method based on the modified ORTO-15 questionnaire on a group of 473 respondents. A large percentage of them exhibited an increased risk of orthorectic behaviors (32.8), which was higher among women than men (34.7% and 28.2%, respectively). People with higher risks of orthorectic disorders significantly more often reduced their consumption of foods high in fats and sugars. Attitudes of people with orthorectic disorders towards health care proved neutral, with a tendency to be positive. Nutritional behaviors observed in the studied group show some irregularities, which indicates the need for preventive and educational measures aimed at increasing awareness of the role of proper nutrition among young people. The obtained results may be the basis for further research on ON symptoms. One of the major areas of future research would be to create a reliable diagnostic tool which would allow for distinguishing between orthorexia and overdiagnosis.
Are Pregnant Women Who Are Living with Overweight or Obesity at Greater Risk of Developing Iron Deficiency/Anaemia?
Authors: Wawer Anna A. , Hodyl Nicolette A. , Fairweather-Tait Susan , Froessler Bernd
Published: May 2021

Low-grade inflammation is often present in people living with obesity. Inflammation can impact iron uptake and metabolism through elevation of hepcidin levels. Obesity is a major public health issue globally, with pregnant women often affected by the condition. Maternal obesity is associated with increased pregnancy risks including iron deficiency (ID) and iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA)—conditions already highly prevalent in pregnant women and their newborns. This comprehensive review assesses whether the inflammatory state induced by obesity could contribute to an increased incidence of ID/IDA in pregnant women and their children. We discuss the challenges in accurate measurement of iron status in the presence of inflammation, and available iron repletion strategies and their effectiveness in pregnant women living with obesity. We suggest that pre-pregnancy obesity and overweight/obese pregnancies carry a greater risk of ID/IDA for the mother during pregnancy and postpartum period, as well as for the baby. We propose iron status and weight gain during pregnancy should be monitored more closely in women who are living with overweight or obesity.
Nutritional Interventions to Improve Sleep in Team-Sport Athletes: A Narrative Review
Authors: Gratwicke Madeleine , Miles Kathleen H. , Pyne David B. , Pumpa Kate L. , Clark Brad
Published: May 2021

Athletes often experience sleep disturbances and poor sleep as a consequence of extended travel, the timing of training and competition (i.e., early morning or evening), and muscle soreness. Nutrition plays a vital role in sports performance and recovery, and a variety of foods, beverages, and supplements purportedly have the capacity to improve sleep quality and quantity. Here, we review and discuss relevant studies regarding nutrition, foods, supplements, and beverages that may improve sleep quality and quantity. Our narrative review was supported by a semi-systematic approach to article searching, and specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, such that articles reviewed were relevant to athletes and sporting environments. Six databases—PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, and Google Scholar—were searched for initial studies of interest from inception to November 2020. Given the paucity of sleep nutrition research in the athlete population, we expanded our inclusion criteria to include studies that reported the outcomes of nutritional interventions to improve sleep in otherwise healthy adults. Carbohydrate ingestion to improve sleep parameters is inconclusive, although high glycemic index foods appear to have small benefits. Tart cherry juice can promote sleep quantity, herbal supplements can enhance sleep quality, while kiwifruit and protein interventions have been shown to improve both sleep quality and quantity. Nutritional interventions are an effective way to improve sleep quality and quantity, although further research is needed to determine the appropriate dose, source, and timing in relation to training, travel, and competition requirements.
Sexual Dimorphism in Body Weight Loss, Improvements in Cardiometabolic Risk Factors and Maintenance of Beneficial Effects 6 Months after a Low-Calorie Diet: Results from the Randomized Controlled DiOGenes Trial
Authors: Trouwborst Inez , Goossens Gijs H. , Astrup Arne , Saris Wim H. M. , Blaak Ellen E.
Published: May 2021

A low-calorie diet (LCD) is an effective strategy to lose weight and improve cardiometabolic risk factors, however, sexual dimorphism may be present. This study aims to investigate sexual dimorphism in cardiometabolic risk factors following weight loss and after weight maintenance. 782 overweight/obese participants (65% women) of the DiOGenes trial followed an 8-week LCD (~800 kcal/day), with a 6-months follow-up weight maintenance period on ad libitum diets varying in protein content and glycemic index. Men lost more body weight during the LCD period (−12.8 ± 3.9 vs. −10.1 ± 2.8 kg, respectively, p < 0.001), but regained more weight during the follow-up period than women (1.5 ± 5.4 vs. −0.5 ± 5.5 kg, respectively, p < 0.001). Even though beneficial LCD-induced changes in cardiometabolic risk factors were found for both sexes, improvements in HOMA-IR, muscle and hepatic insulin sensitivity, triacylglycerol, HDL−, LDL− and total cholesterol, diastolic blood pressure, cholesterol esters, sphingomyelins and adiponectin were more pronounced in men than women (std. ß range: 0.073–0.144, all q < 0.05), after adjustment for weight change. During follow-up, women demonstrated a lower rebound in HDL-cholesterol, triacylglycerol and diacylglycerol (std. ß range: 0.114–0.164, all q < 0.05), independent of changes in body weight. Overall, we demonstrated sexual dimorphism in LCD-induced changes in body weight and cardiometabolic risk profile, which may be attributed to differences in body fat distribution and metabolic status.
Food Neophobia among Adults: Differences in Dietary Patterns, Food Choice Motives, and Food Labels Reading in Poles
Authors: Jezewska-Zychowicz Marzena , Plichta Marta , Drywień Małgorzata Ewa , Hamulka Jadwiga
Published: May 2021

Food neophobia (FN) is associated with reduced quality of diet in adults; thus, the understanding of the relationship between FN and food consumption in more depth appears to be a key issue. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between food neophobia, dietary patterns, food choice motives, and food label reading in the group of adults. Data were collected using the computer-assisted personal interviewing technique (CAPI). A cross-sectional quantitative survey was carried out in November–December 2017 in a sample of 1017 Polish adults. The questionnaire used in the study included the Food Neophobia Scale (FNS), the Beliefs and Eating Habits Questionnaire (KomPAN), and questions regarding food choice motives, reading food labels, and sociodemographic characteristics. The food neophobics were older, had a lower level of education, and had higher BMI compared to others. Compared to others, among the food neophobics, there were more people who often consumed vegetables, fruit, meat, and meat products and who rarely consumed functional and convenience food, sweets, and sweetened beverages. When choosing food, more food neophobics chose healthy and tasteless food products, while more food neophilics chose unhealthy and tasty products. More food neophobics declared not reading price and shelf-life information on food labels compared to the other two groups. Although food neophobia may make adaptation to dietary recommendations difficult, health-promoting features of the diet were observed within the food neophobics. Actions focusing on food choice motives may help even more to limit the effects of food neophobia in adults. Further research is recommended to confirm the observed relationships under different sociocultural conditions.
Family Functioning Assessment Instruments in Adults with a Non-Psychiatric Chronic Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Galán-González Edna , Martínez-Pérez Guillermo , Gascón-Catalán Ana
Published: May 2021

There is little information on the evaluation of family functioning in adult patients with chronic non-psychiatric illness. The objective of this systematic review was to identify family functioning assessment instruments of known validity and reliability that have been used in health research on patients with a chronic non-psychiatric illness. We conducted a search in three biomedical databases (PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Science), for original articles available in English or Spanish published between 2000 and 2019. The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Fourteen articles were included in the review. The instruments Family Assessment Device, Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales, Family Functioning Health and Social Support, Family APGAR, Assessment of Strategies in Families-Effectiveness, Iceland Expressive Family Functioning, Brief Family Assessment Measure-III, and Family Relationship Index were identified. All of them are reliable instruments to evaluate family functioning in chronic patients and could be very valuable to help nurses identify families in need of a psychosocial intervention. The availability and clinical application of these instruments will allow nurses to generate knowledge on family health and care for non-psychiatric chronic conditions, and will eventually contribute to the health and wellbeing of adults with a non-psychiatric chronic disease and their families.
Nurses’ Knowledge and Anxiety Levels toward COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsharif Fatmah
Published: May 2021

Background: In the battle against the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, medical care staff, especially nurses, are at a higher risk of encountering psychological health issues and distress, such as stress, tension, burdensome indications, and, most importantly, fear. They are also at higher risk of becoming infected and transmitting this virus. In Saudi Arabia, it was noticed that the healthcare workforce suffered from anxiety, and that this more evident in women than men. Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge of nurses regarding COVID-19 and the level of anxiety toward the COVID-19 outbreak in the current pandemic situation. Design: A cross-sectional design was used and a validated self-administered online questionnaire with a set of questions related to COVID-19 was distributed to 87 participating nurses. Results: The results showed that more than half of the nurses (71.90%) had an adequate and good knowledge about the causes, transmission, symptoms, treatment, and death rate of COVID-19. The main sources of information for the nurses were social media (51.7%) and the World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health (36.8%). Conclusions: The results allowed the conclusion that, though the nurses had satisfactory knowledge about COVID-19, more than 50% of them experienced mental health issues such as anxiety. To address this, along with providing more knowledge about COVID-19, nurses should be supported in managing their anxiety.
Lessons Learned from an Experience with Vancomycin-Intermediate Staphylococcus aureus Outbreak in a Newly Built Secondary Hospital in Korea
Authors: Kim Min Hyung , Kim Yong Chan , Kim Heejung , Lee Hyuk Min , Lee Ju Hyun , Kim Da Ae , Kim Chanhee , Park Jin Young , Park Yoon Soo
Published: May 2021

A vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA) outbreak occurred in an intensive care unit (ICU) in South Korea. We aimed to investigate the condition that led to the VISA outbreak and seek measures to prevent further spread of the multidrug-resistant organism. A total of three VISA isolates were obtained from two patients and a health care worker (HCW) in a newly built 450-bed secondary hospital. Extensive screening of close contacts for VISA in terms of space sharing and physical contact, irrespective of contact time, was performed. Furthermore, multilocus sequence type, staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec type, and spa type profiles were determined for all VISA isolates. The relationship between vancomycin use and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of S. aureus was also investigated. Molecular typing showed that the strains of the three VISA isolates were identical, indicating horizontal hospital transmission. We assumed that VISA colonised in the HCW could have transmitted to the two patients, which resulted in one infection and one colonisation. The affected HCW was excused from work and was decolonised with mupirocin. Five weeks after the interventions, no additional VISA isolates were identified. No relationship between vancomycin use and MIC of S. aureus was identified. Extensive screening of contacts in addition to decolonisation is crucial in preventing the further spread of VISA.
MiR-378b Modulates Chlamydia-Induced Upper Genital Tract Pathology
Authors: Lundy Stephanie R. , Abney Kobe , Ellerson Debra , Igietseme Joseph U. , Carroll Darin , Eko Francis O. , Omosun Yusuf O.
Published: May 2021

Genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection causes severe reproductive pathologies such as salpingitis and pelvic inflammatory disease that can lead to tubal factor infertility. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are evolutionarily conserved regulators of mammalian gene expression in development, immunity and pathophysiologic processes during inflammation and infection, including Chlamydia infection. Among the miRNAs involved in regulating host responses and pathologic outcome of Chlamydia infection, we have shown that miR-378b was significantly differentially expressed during primary infection and reinfection. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that miR-378b is involved in the pathological outcome of Chlamydia infection. We developed miR-378b knockout mice (miR-378b−/−) using Crispr/Cas and infected them along with their wild-type (WT) control with Chlamydia to compare the infectivity and reproductive pathologies. The results showed that miR-378b−/− mice were unable to clear the infection compared to WT mice; also, miR-378b−/− mice exhibited a relatively higher Chlamydia burden throughout the duration of infection. However, gross pathology results showed that miR-378b−/− mice had significantly reduced uterine dilatations and pathologic lesions after two infections compared to WT mice. In addition, the pregnancy and fertility rates for infected miR-378b−/− mice showed protection from Chlamydia-induced infertility with fertility rate that was comparable to uninfected WT mice. These results are intriguing as they suggest that miR-378b is important in regulating host immune responses that control Chlamydial replication and drive the inflammation that causes complications such as infertility. The finding has important implications for biomarkers of Chlamydial complications and targets for prevention of disease.
Survey of the Transcription Factor Responses of Mouse Lung Alveolar Macrophages to Pneumocystis murina
Authors: Kottom Theodore J. , Schaefbauer Kyle , Carmona Eva M. , Limper Andrew H.
Published: May 2021

Pneumocystis jirovecii is a fungal pathogen that can cause life-threatening infections in individuals who are immunocompromised. Acquired via inhalation, upon entering the respiratory tract, the fungi first encounter innate immune cells such as alveolar macrophages (AMs). Relatively little is known about the AM cellular responses to the organism, and particularly transcription factor (TF) profiles leading to early host responses during infection. Utilizing the Mouse Transcription Factors RT2 Profiler™ PCR Array, we report an initial TF survey of these macrophage and Pneumocystis interactions. Expression levels of a panel of mouse TFs were compared between unstimulated and Pneumocystis murina-stimulated AMs. Interestingly, a number of TFs previously implicated in pathogen–host cell interactions were highly up- or downregulated, including hif1a and Pparg. qPCR experiments were further conducted to verify the results of these surveyed transcripts. Furthermore, with immunoblotting, we show that HIF-1A and PPAR-γ are indeed significantly upregulated and downregulated, respectively. Lastly, and importantly, we report that in the mouse model of Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), which mimics human Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP), qPCR analysis of Pneumocystis murina lungs also mimic the initial TF profile analysis, suggesting an importance for these TFs in immunocompromised hosts with Pneumocystis pneumonia. These data demonstrate the use of TF profiling in host AMs and Pneumocystis organism interactions that may lead to a better understanding of the specific inflammatory responses of the host to Pneumocystis pneumonia and may inform novel strategies for potential therapeutics.
Second-Generation Cephalosporins-Associated Drug-Induced Liver Disease: A Study in VigiBase with a Focus on the Elderly
Authors: Sipos Mariana , Farcas Andreea , Leucuta Daniel Corneliu , Bucsa Camelia , Huruba Madalina , Mogosan Cristina
Published: May 2021

Background: The objective of this study was to characterize individual case safety reports (ICSRs) and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) related to second-generation cephalosporins and resulting in hepatobiliary disorders, in VigiBase, WHO global database. Methods: All second-generation cephalosporins hepatobiliary ADRs reported up to July 2019 were included. Characteristic of cephalosporins and ADRs, aside from disproportionality data were evaluated. Results: A total of 1343 ICSRs containing 1585 ADRs were analyzed. Cefuroxime was suspected to have caused hepatobiliary disorders in most cases—in 38% of adults and in 35% of elderly. Abnormal hepatic function was the most frequent ADR, followed by jaundice and hepatitis. For 49% of the ADRs reported in the elderly and 51% in the adult population, the outcome was favorable, with fatal outcome for 2% of the adults and 10% of the elderly. Higher proportional reporting ration (PRR) values were reported in the elderly for cefotetan-associated jaundice, cefuroxime-associated acute hepatitis and hepatitis cholestatic as well as for cefotiam and cefmetazole-associated liver disorder. Conclusion: Hepatobiliary ADRs were reported for 2nd generation cephalosporins, with over 50% of cases in adults, without gender differences. Cholestatic hepatitis was predominately reported in the elderly and this category was more prone to specific hepatic reactions.
68Ga-Labeling: Laying the Foundation for an Anti-Radiolytic Formulation for NOTA-sdAb PET Tracers
Authors: Baudhuin Henri , Cousaert Julie , Vanwolleghem Philippe , Raes Geert , Caveliers Vicky , Keyaerts Marleen , Lahoutte Tony , Xavier Catarina
Published: May 2021

During the preparation of [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-sdAb at high activity, degradation of the tracers was observed, impacting the radiochemical purity (RCP). Increasing starting activities in radiolabelings is often paired with increased degradation of the tracer due to the formation of free radical species, a process known as radiolysis. Radical scavengers and antioxidants can act as radioprotectant due to their fast interaction with formed radicals and can therefore reduce the degree of radiolysis. This study aims to optimize a formulation to prevent radiolysis during the labeling of NOTA derivatized single domain antibody (sdAbs) with 68Ga. Gentisic acid, ascorbic acid, ethanol and polyvinylpyrrolidone were tested individually or in combination to find an optimal mix able to prevent radiolysis without adversely influencing the radiochemical purity (RCP) or the functionality of the tracer. RCP and degree of radiolysis were assessed via thin layer chromatography and size exclusion chromatography for up to three hours after radiolabeling. Individually, the radioprotectants showed insufficient efficacy in reducing radiolysis when using high activities of 68Ga, while being limited in amount due to negative impact on radiolabeling of the tracer. A combination of 20% ethanol (VEtOH/VBuffer%) and 5 mg ascorbic acid proved successful in preventing radiolysis during labeling with starting activities up to 1–1.2 GBq of 68Ga, and is able to keep the tracer stable for up to at least 3 h after labeling at room temperature. The prevention of radiolysis by the combination of ethanol and ascorbic acid potentially allows radiolabeling compatibility of NOTA-sdAbs with all currently available 68Ge/68Ga generators. Additionally, a design is proposed to allow the incorporation of the radioprotectant in an ongoing diagnostic kit development for 68Ga labeling of NOTA-sdAbs.
Nobiletin Inhibits Inflammatory Reaction in Interleukin-1β-Stimulated Human Periodontal Ligament Cells
Authors: Hosokawa Yoshitaka , Hosokawa Ikuko , Ozaki Kazumi , Matsuo Takashi
Published: May 2021

The immune response in periodontal lesions is involved in the progression of periodontal disease. Therefore, it is important to find a bioactive substance that has anti-inflammatory effects in periodontal lesions. This study aimed to examine if nobiletin, which is found in the peel of citrus fruits, could inhibit inflammatory responses in interleukin (IL)-1β-stimulated human periodontal ligament cells (HPDLCs). The release of cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, CXCL10, CCL20, and CCL2) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1 and MMP-3) was assessed by ELISA. The expression of cell adhesion molecules (ICAM-1and VCAM-1) and the activation of signal transduction pathways (nuclear factor (NF)-κB, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and protein kinase B (Akt)) in HPDLCs were detected by Western blot analysis. Our experiments revealed that nobiletin decreased the expression of inflammatory cytokines, cell adhesion molecules, and MMPs in IL-1β-stimulated HPDLCs. Moreover, we revealed that nobiletin treatment could suppress the activation of the NF-κB, MAPKs, and Akt pathways. These findings indicate that nobiletin could inhibit inflammatory reactions in IL-1β-stimulated HPDLCs by inhibiting multiple signal transduction pathways, including NF-κB, MAPKs, and Akt.
Transdermal Film Loaded with Garlic Oil-Acyclovir Nanoemulsion to Overcome Barriers for Its Use in Alleviating Cold Sore Conditions
Authors: Almehmady Alshaimaa M. , Ali Sarah A.
Published: May 2021

The exponentially mounting cases of herpes simplex virus infection or cold sores have become a serious global concern. Acyclovir (ACV) and garlic oil (GO)-loaded lipid nanocarrier could be a promising therapeutic approach in alleviating cold sores, as well as limiting the biopharmaceutical constraints associated with ACV absorption and therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, the objective of the current research study was to formulate an ACV-GO self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (ACV-GO-SNEDDS) as transdermal films. The prepared SNEDDS was optimized using an experimental mixture design. The optimized ACV-GO SNEDDS was loaded in transdermal film and was evaluated for ex vivo skin permeation and in vivo pharmacokinetic prospects. An optimized ACV-GO SNEDDs formulation constituted of 10.4% (w/w) of GO, 64.8% (w/w) of surfactant mixture (Tween 20®-Span 20®); 24.8%(w/w) of co-surfactant (Propylene glycol®), and 200mg of ACV, respectively, were prepared and characterized for particle size (Y). The observed globule size of the optimized ACV-GO SNEDDS is 170 ± 13.45 nm. The results of stability studies indicated that the stability index of optimized ACV-GO-SNEDDS was more than 92 ± 3%. This optimized ACV-GO SNEDDS was loaded in hydroxypropyl cellulose transdermal film. The outcome of the ex vivo skin permeation study demonstrated a 2.3-fold augmented permeation of ACV from the optimized ACV-GO SNEDDS HPC transdermal film in comparison to the raw ACV transdermal film. There was a 3-fold increase in the relative bioavailability of the optimized ACV-GO SNEDDS transdermal film compared to the raw ACV-HPC film. The study findings confirmed that the ACV-GO SNEDDS transdermal film exhibited excellent potential to enhance the bioavailability of ACV.