bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural Approaches for Neurological Disorders—The Neuroprotective Potential of Codium tomentosum
Authors: Silva Joana , Martins Alice , Alves Celso , Pinteus Susete , Gaspar Helena , Alfonso Amparo , Pedrosa Rui
Published: November 2020

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, and is characterized by a progressive degeneration of the dopaminergic neurons in the substantianigra. Although not completely understood, several abnormal cellular events are known to be related with PD progression, such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of Codium tomentosum enriched fractions in a neurotoxicity model mediated by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) on SH-SY5Y human cells, and the disclosure of their mechanisms of action. Additionally, a preliminary chemical screening of the most promising bioactive fractions of C. tomentosum was carried out by GC-MS analysis. Among the tested fractions, four samples exhibited the capacity to revert the neurotoxicity induced by 6-OHDA to values higher or similar to the vitamin E (90.11 ± 3.74% of viable cells). The neuroprotective effects were mediated by the mitigation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial dysfunctions and DNA damage, together with the reduction of Caspase-3 activity. Compounds belonging to different chemical classes, such as terpenes, alcohols, carboxylic acids, aldehydes, esters, ketones, saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons were tentatively identified by GC-MS. The results show that C. tomentosum is a relevant source of neuroprotective agents, with particular interest for preventive therapeutics.
Comprehensive Review on Application of FTIR Spectroscopy Coupled with Chemometrics for Authentication Analysis of Fats and Oils in the Food Products
Authors: Rohman Abdul , Ghazali Mohd Al’Ikhsan B. , Windarsih Anjar , Irnawati Irnawati , Riyanto Sugeng , Yusof Farahwahida Mohd , Mustafa Shuhaimi
Published: November 2020

Currently, the authentication analysis of edible fats and oils is an emerging issue not only by producers but also by food industries, regulators, and consumers. The adulteration of high quality and expensive edible fats and oils as well as food products containing fats and oils with lower ones are typically motivated by economic reasons. Some analytical methods have been used for authentication analysis of food products, but some of them are complex in sampling preparation and involving sophisticated instruments. Therefore, simple and reliable methods are proposed and developed for these authentication purposes. This review highlighted the comprehensive reports on the application of infrared spectroscopy combined with chemometrics for authentication of fats and oils. New findings of this review included (1) FTIR spectroscopy combined with chemometrics, which has been used to authenticate fats and oils; (2) due to as fingerprint analytical tools, FTIR spectra have emerged as the most reported analytical techniques applied for authentication analysis of fats and oils; (3) the use of chemometrics as analytical data treatment is a must to extract the information from FTIR spectra to be understandable data. Next, the combination of FTIR spectroscopy with chemometrics must be proposed, developed, and standardized for authentication and assuring the quality of fats and oils.
Fabrication of Flexible Multilayer Composite Capacitors Using Inkjet Printing
Authors: Reinheimer Timo , Baumann Viktoria , Binder Joachim R.
Published: November 2020

This paper shows a straightforward method for printing multilayer composite capacitors with three dielectric layers on flexible substrates. As known from multilayer ceramic chip capacitors (MLCCs), it is possible to create a parallel connection of the layers without enlarging the needed area. Hence, the overall capacitance is increased, as the capacitances of the single dielectric layers add up. To realize printed capacitors, a special ceramic/polymer composite ink is used. The ink consists of surface-modified Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3 (BST), a polymeric crosslinking agent and a thermal initiator, which allows an immediate polymerization of the ink, leading to very homogenous layers. The dielectric behavior of the capacitors is examined for each completed dielectric layer (via impedance spectroscopy) so that the changes with every following layer can be analyzed. It is demonstrated that the concept works, and capacitors with up to 3420 pF were realized (permittivity of ~40). However, it was also shown that the biggest challenge is the printing of the needed silver electrodes. They show a strong coffee stain effect, leading to thicker edge areas, which are difficult to overprint. Only with the help of printed supporting structures was it possible to lower the failure rate when printing thin dielectric layers.
Dynamic Behavior of Magnetically Affected Rod-Like Nanostructures with Multiple Defects via Nonlocal-Integral/Differential-Based Models
Authors: Kiani Keivan , Żur Krzysztof Kamil
Published: November 2020

Through considering both nonlocality and surface energy effects, this paper suggests suitable mathematical-continuum-based models for free vibration of nanorods with multiple defects acted upon by a bidirectional-transverse magnetic field. By employing both theories of elasticity of Eringen and Gurtin–Murdoch, the equations of motion for the magnetically affected-damaged rod-like nanostructures are derived using the nonlocal-differential-based and the nonlocal-integral-based models. The local defects are modeled by a set of linearly appropriate axial springs at the interface of appropriately divided nanorods. Through constructing the nonlocal-differential equations of motion for sub-divided portions and by imposing the appropriate interface conditions, the natural frequencies as well as the vibrational modes are explicitly obtained for fixed–free and fixed–fixed nanorods with low numbers of defects. The extracted nonlocal-integral governing equations are also solved for natural frequencies using the finite-element technique. For a particular situation, the model’s results are successfully verified with those of another work. Subsequently, the effects of nonlocality, surface energy, defect’s location, nanorod’s diameter, magnetic field strength, and number of defects on the dominant free vibration response of the magnetically defected nanorods with various end conditions are displayed and discussed.
Electric and Photocatalytic Properties of Graphene Oxide Depending on the Degree of Its Reduction
Authors: Bakos László Péter , Sárvári Lőrinc , László Krisztina , Mizsei János , Kónya Zoltán , Halasi Gyula , Hernádi Klára , Szabó Anna , Berkesi Dániel , Bakos István , Szilágyi Imre Miklós
Published: November 2020

When graphene oxide is reduced, the functional groups are released and the structure becomes more ordered. The degree of reduction might be tunable with the process parameters. In our work, graphene oxide is prepared and the effect of thermal and chemical reduction is investigated. The samples are characterized with TG/DTA-MS, SEM-EDX, TEM, XPS, ATR-FTIR, Raman spectroscopy and XRD. Their electrical resistance, cyclic voltammetry and photocatalytic activity data are investigated. The conductivity can be varied by several orders of magnitude, offering a tool to match its electrical properties to certain applications. Low temperature reduction in air offers a material with the highest capacitance, which might be used in supercapacitors. The bare graphene oxide has considerably larger photocatalytic activity than P25 TiO2. Reduction decreases the activity, meaning that reduced graphene oxide can be used as an electron sink in composite photocatalysts, but does not contribute to the photocatalytic activity by itself.
Nanoparticles Engineering by Pulsed Laser Ablation in Liquids: Concepts and Applications
Authors: Fazio Enza , Gökce Bilal , De Giacomo Alessandro , Meneghetti Moreno , Compagnini Giuseppe , Tommasini Matteo , Waag Friedrich , Lucotti Andrea , Zanchi Chiara Giuseppina , Ossi Paolo Maria , Dell’Aglio Marcella , D’Urso Luisa , Condorelli Marcello , Scardaci Vittorio , Biscaglia Francesca , Litti Lucio , Gobbo Marina , Gallo Giovanni , Santoro Marco , Trusso Sebastiano , Neri Fortunato
Published: November 2020

Laser synthesis emerges as a suitable technique to produce ligand-free nanoparticles, alloys and functionalized nanomaterials for catalysis, imaging, biomedicine, energy and environmental applications. In the last decade, laser ablation and nanoparticle generation in liquids has proven to be a unique and efficient technique to generate, excite, fragment and conjugate a large variety of nanostructures in a scalable and clean way. In this work, we give an overview on the fundamentals of pulsed laser synthesis of nanocolloids and new information about its scalability towards selected applications. Biomedicine, catalysis and sensing are the application areas mainly discussed in this review, highlighting advantages of laser-synthesized nanoparticles for these types of applications and, once partially resolved, the limitations to the technique for large-scale applications.
Enhancing and Tuning the Nonlinear Optical Response and Wavelength-Agile Strong Optical Limiting Action of N-octylamine Modified Fluorographenes
Authors: Stathis Aristeidis , Stavrou Michalis , Papadakis Ioannis , Obratzov Ievgen , Couris Stelios
Published: November 2020

Fluorographene has been recently shown to be a suitable platform for synthesizing numerous graphene derivatives with desired properties. In that respect, N-octylamine-modified fluorographenes with variable degrees of functionalization are studied and their nonlinear optical properties are assessed using 4 ns pulses. A very strong enhancement of the nonlinear optical response and a very efficient optical limiting action are observed, being strongly dependent on the degree of functionalization of fluorographene. The observed enhanced response is attributed to the increasing number of defects because of the incorporation of N-heteroatoms in the graphitic network upon functionalization with N-octylamine. The present work paves the way for the controlled covalent functionalization of graphene enabling a scalable access to a wide portfolio of graphene derivatives with custom-tailored properties.
From Chip Size to Wafer-Scale Nanoporous Gold Reliable Fabrication Using Low Currents Electrochemical Etching
Authors: Varasteanu Pericle , Romanitan Cosmin , Bujor Alexandru , Tutunaru Oana , Craciun Gabriel , Mihalache Iuliana , Radoi Antonio , Kusko Mihaela
Published: November 2020

We report a simple, scalable route to wafer-size processing for fabrication of tunable nanoporous gold (NPG) by the anodization process at low constant current in a solution of hydrofluoric acid and dimethylformamide. Microstructural, optical, and electrochemical investigations were employed for a systematic analysis of the sample porosity evolution while increasing the anodization duration, namely the small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) technique and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Whereas the SAXS analysis practically completes the scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) investigations and provides data about the impact of the etching time on the nanoporous gold layers in terms of fractal dimension and average pore surface area, the EIS analysis was used to estimate the electroactive area, the associated roughness factor, as well as the heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant. The bridge between the analyses is made by the scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) survey, which practically correlates the surface morphology with the electrochemical activity. The results were correlated to endorse the control over the gold film nanostructuration process deposited directly on the substrate that can be further subjected to different technological processes, retaining its properties. The results show that the anodization duration influences the surface area, which subsequently modifies the properties of NPG, thus enabling tuning the samples for specific applications, either optical or chemical.
Synthesis and Catalytic Application of Silver Nanoparticles Supported on Lactobacillus kefiri S-Layer Proteins
Authors: Bolla Patricia A. , Huggias Sofía , Serradell María A. , Ruggera José F. , Casella Mónica L.
Published: November 2020

Research on nanoparticles obtained on biological supports is a topic of growing interest in nanoscience, especially regarding catalytic applications. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been studied due to their low toxicity, but they tend to aggregation, oxidation, and low stability. In this work, we synthesized and characterized AgNPs supported on S-layer proteins (SLPs) as bidimensional regularly arranged biotemplates. By different reduction strategies, six AgNPs of variable sizes were obtained on two different SLPs. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed that SLPs are mostly decorated by evenly distributed AgNPs; however, a drastic reduction by NaBH4 led to large AgNPs whereas a smooth reduction with H2 or H2/NaBH4 at low concentration leads to smaller AgNPs, regardless of the SLP used as support. All the nanosystems showed conversion values between 75–80% of p-nitrophenol to p-aminophenol, however, the increment in the AgNPs size led to a great decrease in Kapp showing the influence of reduction strategy in the performance of the catalysts. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicated that the adsorption of p-nitrophenolate species through the nitro group is the most favored mechanism, leading to p-aminophenol as the only feasible product of the reaction, which was corroborated experimentally.
Hair Follicle Targeting and Dermal Drug Delivery with Curcumin Drug Nanocrystals—Essential Influence of Excipients
Authors: Pelikh Olga , Keck Cornelia M.
Published: November 2020

Many active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) possess poor aqueous solubility and thus lead to poor bioavailability upon oral administration and topical application. Nanocrystals have a well-established, universal formulation approach to overcome poor solubility. Various nanocrystal-based products have entered the market for oral application. However, their use in dermal formulations is relatively novel. Previous studies confirmed that nanocrystals are a superior formulation principle to improve the dermal penetration of poorly soluble API. Other studies showed that nanocrystals can also be used to target the hair follicles where they create a drug depot, enabling long acting drug therapy with only one application. Very recent studies show that also the vehicle in which the nanocrystals are incorporated can have a tremendous influence on the pathway of the API and the nanocrystals. In order to elucidate the influence of the excipient in more detail, a systematic study was conducted to investigate the influence of excipients on the penetration efficacy of the formulated API and the pathway of nanocrystals upon dermal application. Results showed that already small quantities of excipients can strongly affect the passive dermal penetration of curcumin and the hair follicle targeting of curcumin nanocrystals. The addition of 2% ethanol promoted hair follicle targeting of nanocrystals and hampered passive diffusion into the stratum corneum of the API, whereas the addition of glycerol hampered hair follicle targeting and promoted passive diffusion. Propylene glycol was found to promote both pathways. In fact, the study proved that formulating nanocrystals to improve the bioefficacy of poorly soluble API upon dermal application is highly effective. However, this is only true, if the correct excipient is selected for the formulation of the vehicle. The study also showed that excipients can be used to allow for a targeted dermal drug delivery, which enables to control if API should be delivered via passive diffusion and/or as drug reservoir by depositing API in the hair follicles.
Influence of Dietary Habits and Mediterranean Diet Adherence on Sleep Quality during Pregnancy. The GESTAFIT Project
Authors: Flor-Alemany Marta , Nestares Teresa , Alemany-Arrebola Inmaculada , Marín-Jiménez Nuria , Borges-Cosic Milkana , Aparicio Virginia A.
Published: November 2020

We examined the association of the dietary habits and the Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence with sleep quality during pregnancy. A food frequency questionnaire and the Mediterranean Food Pattern were employed to assess dietary habits and MD adherence, respectively. Sleep quality was assessed with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) global score (n = 150; mean age 32.9 ± 4.6 years). A higher consumption of fruits was associated with better sleep quality at the 16th gestational week (g.w.; p < 0.05). A greater olive oil consumption and a higher MD adherence were associated with better sleep quality at the 16th and 34th g.w. (all, p < 0.05). Contrarily, a higher red meat and subproducts consumption was associated with worse sleep quality at the 34th g.w. (p < 0.05). The group with the highest adherence to the MD (Tertile 3) showed better sleep quality than the group with the lowest adherence (Tertile 1) at the 16th and 34th g.w. (both, p < 0.05). A higher adherence to the MD, a greater intake of fruits and olive oil and a lower intake of red meat and subproducts were associated with better sleep quality along the pregnancy course, especially among sedentary women.
Association between Habitual Dietary Iron Intake and Glucose Metabolism in Individuals after Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Kimita Wandia , Li Xinye , Ko Juyeon , Bharmal Sakina H. , Cameron-Smith David , Petrov Maxim S.
Published: November 2020

Dietary intake of iron is known to be associated with impaired glucose metabolism. However, its involvement in derangements of glucose metabolism after acute pancreatitis (AP) is not completely understood. The aim was to investigate the association between dietary iron intake and markers of glucose metabolism in individuals after an attack of AP. Fasting blood samples were collected to analyse markers of glucose metabolism (fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)). The EPIC-Norfolk food frequency questionnaire was used to determine the habitual intake of dietary iron (total, haem, and non-haem). Multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted and six statistical models were built to adjust for covariates. A total of 109 individuals after AP were studied in a cross-sectional fashion. Total iron (β (95% confidence interval) = −0.19 (−0.35, −0.05); p = 0.01 in the most adjusted model) and non-haem iron (β (95% confidence interval) = −0.19 (−0.33, −0.04); p = 0.03 in the most adjusted model) were significantly associated with FPG, consistently in all adjusted model. Total iron and non-haem iron did not have consistent significant associations with HbA1c. Dietary haem iron intake was not associated with either FPG or HbA1c. Habitual intake of dietary iron is inversely associated with FPG in individuals after an attack of AP and may be involved in the pathogenesis of new-onset diabetes after pancreatitis. Prospective longitudinal studies are now warranted to unveil the specific mechanism underlying the involvement of dietary iron.
Twelve-Week Daily Consumption of ad hoc Fortified Milk with ω-3, D, and Group B Vitamins Has a Positive Impact on Inflammaging Parameters: A Randomized Cross-Over Trial
Authors: Martucci Morena , Conte Maria , Bucci Laura , Giampieri Enrico , Fabbri Cristina , Palmas Maria , Izzi Massimo , Salvioli Stefano , Zambrini Angelo , Orsi Carla , Brigidi Patrizia , Santoro Aurelia , Capri Miriam , Monti Daniela , Franceschi Claudio
Published: November 2020

Background and Aim: A state of chronic, subclinical inflammation known as inflammaging is present in elderly people and represents a risk factor for all age-related diseases. Dietary supplementation with ad hoc fortified foods seems an appealing strategy to counteract inflammaging. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of elderly-tailored fortified milk on inflammaging and different health parameters. Methods: A double-blind randomized cross-over study was performed on forty-eight volunteers aged 63–80 years. The fortified milk was enriched with ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA; docosahexaenoic acid, DHA), vitamins (25-hydroxyvitamin D, E, C, B6, B9, B12), and trace elements (zinc, selenium). The two intervention periods lasted for 12 weeks, with a 16-week washout intermission. Results: Compared to placebo, the consumption of fortified milk increased the circulating levels of different micronutrients, including vitamins and the ω-3 index of erythrocyte membranes. Conversely, it reduced the amount of arachidonic acid, homocysteine, and ω-6/ω-3 ratio. Conclusion: Twelve-week daily consumption of adhoc fortified milk has an overall positive impact on different health parameters related to inflammaging in the elderly.
Obesity Risk Assessment Tool for Low-Income Spanish Speaking Immigrant Parents with Young Children: Validity with BMI and Biomarkers of Obesity
Authors: Townsend Marilyn , Shilts Mical , Lanoue Louise , Drake Christiana , Díaz Rios L. , Styne Dennis , Keim Nancy , Ontai Lenna
Published: November 2020

Children of Hispanic origin bear a high risk of obesity. Child weight gain trajectories are influenced by the family environment, including parent feeding practices. Excessive body fat can result in unhealthful metabolic and lipid profiles and increased risk of metabolic diseases. The objective was to estimate criterion validity of an obesity risk assessment tool targeting Spanish-speaking families of Mexican origin using anthropometric measures and blood values of their young children. A cross-sectional study design with five data collection sessions was conducted over an eight-week period and involved 206 parent/child dyads recruited at Head Start and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children in Northern California. Main outcome measures were criterion validity of Niños Sanos, a pediatric obesity risk assessment tool, using anthropometric measures and blood biomarkers. Niños Sanos scores were inversely related to child BMI-for-age percentiles (p = 0.02), waist-for-height ratios (p = 0.05) and inversely related to blood biomarkers for the metabolic index (p = 0.03) and lipid index (p = 0.05) and positively related to anti-inflammatory index (p = 0.047). Overall, children with higher Niños Sanos scores had more healthful lipid, metabolic and inflammatory profiles, as well as lower BMI-for-age percentiles and waist-to height ratios, providing evidence for the criterion validity of the tool. Niños Sanos can be used by child obesity researchers, by counselors and medical professionals during clinic visits as a screening tool and by educators as a tool to set goals for behavior change.
The Efficacy of an Energy-Restricted Anti-Inflammatory Diet for the Management of Obesity in Younger Adults
Authors: Kenđel Jovanović Gordana , Mrakovcic-Sutic Ines , Pavičić Žeželj Sandra , Šuša Branislav , Rahelić Dario , Klobučar Majanović Sanja
Published: November 2020

There is growing evidence of the dietary impact on obesity-induced low-grade chronic inflammation and the associated chronic non-communicable diseases modification. We determined changes in body composition and cardiometabolic and inflammatory status of participants with obesity after 24 weeks of a dietary intervention based on an energy-reduced anti-inflammatory diet and examined the relationship of these changes with changes in the inflammatory potential of the diet. The anthropometric and body composition parameters of 81 participants (average age of 43 years, 74 women) were assessed. Metabolic status was determined using the glycemic and lipid statuses, and the cardiometabolic index and inflammatory status were determined using the concentration of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). The inflammatory potential of the diet was assessed using the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII®). Intervention with an anti-inflammatory diet resulted in a significant reduction in body weight and visceral adipose tissue and caused improvements in the participants’ cardiometabolic and inflammatory statuses. The anti-inflammatory diet was shown to be effective regarding obesity management. The study data could advance current scientific knowledge in the field of inflammation and diet, provide guidelines for obesity management, and find its application in routine clinical practice.
Dietary Acrylamide Intake and the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: The Japan Public Health Center-Based Prospective Study
Authors: Kito Kumiko , Ishihara Junko , Kotemori Ayaka , Zha Ling , Liu Rong , Sawada Norie , Iwasaki Motoki , Sobue Tomotaka , Tsugane Shoichiro
Published: November 2020

Acrylamide is a probable carcinogen in humans. Few studies have assessed dietary acrylamide intake and the risk of pancreatic cancer; however, these studies are based on Western populations. Our purpose was to investigate the association of dietary acrylamide intake with the risk of pancreatic cancer utilizing data from the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study. We evaluated the data of 89,729 participants aged 45–74 years, who replied to a questionnaire on past medical history and lifestyle habits from 1995–1998. Dietary acrylamide intake was estimated utilizing a validated food frequency questionnaire. We calculated the hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals by using Cox proportional-hazards regression models. The average follow-up was 15.2 years, and 576 cases of pancreatic cancer were diagnosed. In the multivariate-adjusted model, an association between dietary acrylamide intake and pancreatic cancer risk was not demonstrated (hazard ratio for the highest vs. lowest quartile = 0.83, 95% confidence interval: 0.65–1.05, p for trend = 0.07). Furthermore, in the analyses stratified by sex, smoking status, coffee consumption, green tea consumption, alcohol consumption, and body mass index, no significant association was detected. Dietary acrylamide intake was not associated with the pancreatic cancer risk in Japanese individuals.
Allyl Isothiocyanate Protects Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury via NRF2 Activation by Decreasing Spontaneous Degradation in Hepatocyte
Authors: Kim Min Woo , Kang Ju-Hee , Jung Hyun Jin , Park Se Yong , Phan Thu Han Le , Namgung Hee , Seo Seung-Yong , Yoon Yeo Sung , Oh Seung Hyun
Published: November 2020

Acetaminophen (APAP) is one of the most frequently prescribed analgesic and anti-pyretic drugs. However, APAP-induced hepatotoxicity is a major cause of acute liver failure globally. While the therapeutic dose is safe, an overdose of APAP produces an excess of the toxic metabolite N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI), subsequently resulting in hepatotoxicity. Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a bioactive molecule in cruciferous plants, is reported to exert various biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial effects. Notably, AITC is known for activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), but there is limited evidence supporting the beneficial effects on hepatocytes and liver, where AITC is mainly metabolized. We applied a mouse model in the current study to investigate whether AITC protects the liver against APAP-induced injury, wherein we observed the protective effects of AITC. Furthermore, NRF2 nuclear translocation and the increase of target genes by AITC treatment were confirmed by in vitro experiments. APAP-induced cell damage was attenuated by AITC via an NRF2-dependent manner, and rapid NRF2 activation by AITC was attributed to the elevation of NRF2 stability by decreasing its spontaneous degradation. Moreover, liver tissues from our mouse experiment revealed that AITC increases the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), an NRF2 target gene, confirming the potential of AITC as a hepatoprotective agent that induces NRF2 activation. Taken together, our results indicate the potential of AITC as a natural-product-derived NRF2 activator targeting the liver.
A Comparison of Maternal Health Status and Weight-Related Cognitions, Behaviors, and Home Environments by Race/Ethnicity
Authors: Delaney Colleen L. , Spaccarotella Kim , Byrd-Bredbenner Carol
Published: November 2020

This cross-sectional study compared weight-related cognitions, behaviors, and home environments of 568 mothers of young children (ages 2 to <9 years) by racial/ethnic group. Maternal health status was good and did not differ by race/ethnicity. Mothers were somewhat confident in their ability to promote healthy physical activity and eating behaviors in their children, with White and Asian mothers having greater confidence than Hispanic mothers. Mothers had low physical activity, with Hispanic mothers getting more sedentary screentime than White and Asian mothers. Mothers’ dietary intake did not differ. Modeling of healthful behaviors was more frequent in White than Hispanic mothers. Asian mothers tended to use non-recommended feeding patterns more than White, Hispanic, and Black mothers. Children’s physical activity and screentime did not differ by race/ethnicity. Asian children tended to drink less sugar-sweetened beverages and more milk than counterparts. All reported frequent family meals, with Hispanic mothers reporting more family meals eaten in less healthful locations. Household food environments did not differ. However, White mothers reported greater access to physical activity space and supports than Hispanic mothers. Race/ethnicity may link with maternal weight-related cognitions, behaviors, and home environments and thus can help inform the development of interventions tailored by race/ethnicity.
Participation of Phosphorylated Analogues of Nitroethene in Diels–Alder Reactions with Anthracene: A Molecular Electron Density Theory Study and Mechanistic Aspect
Authors: Kącka-Zych Agnieszka
Published: November 2020

The structure and the contribution of the bis(2-chloroethyl) 2-nitro 1a and 2-bromo-2-nitroethenylphosphonates 1b with anthracene 2 in the Diels–Alder (DA) reactions have been studied within the Molecular Electron Density Theory (MEDT) at the B3LYP functional together with 6-31G(d), 6-31+G(d) and 6-31+G(d,p) basic sets. Analysis of the Conceptual Density Functional Theory (CDFT) reactivity indices indicates that 1a and 1b can be classified as a strong electrophile and marginal nucleophile, while 2 is classified as a strong electrophile and strong nucleophile. The studied DA reactions take place through a one-step mechanism. A Bonding Evolution Theory (BET) of the one path associated with the DA reaction of 1a with 2 indicates that it is associated with non-concerted two-stage one-step mechanism. BET analysis shows that the first C2-C3 single bond is formed in Phase VI, while the second C1-C6 single bond is formed in the Phase VIII. The formation of both single bonds occurs through the merging of two C2 and C3, C1 and C6 pseudoradical centers, respectively.
Electrolyzed Oxidizing Water Modulates the Immune Response in BALB/c Mice Experimentally Infected with Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Rodríguez-Morales Olivia , Cabrera-Mata Juan José , Carrillo-Sánchez Silvia del C. , Gutiérrez-Ocejo Rodolfo A. , Baylón-Pacheco Lidia , Pérez-Reyes Olga L. , Rosales-Encina José Luis , Aranda-Fraustro Alberto , Hernández-García Sergio , Arce-Fonseca Minerva
Published: November 2020

Chagas disease is a major public health problem in Latin America. The mixed Th1/Th2 immune response is required against Trypanosoma cruzi. Electrolyzed oxidizing water (EOW) has been shown to have germicidal efficacy. The objective of this study was to evaluate the EOW effectiveness in T. cruzi-infected BALB/c mice clinically, immunologically, and histologically. The severity of the infection was assessed by parasitaemia, general health condition, mortality, mega syndromes, and histological lesions. IgG, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma, and IL-1 beta levels were quantified. The EOW administration showed a beneficial effect on parasitaemia, general physical condition, and mortality. High levels of IgG1 at 50 days postinfection were observed. Prophylactic EOW treatment was able to induce a predominantly TH1 immune response based on an IgG2a levels increase at the late acute phase, and a 10-fold increase of IFN-gamma in whole acute phase. EOW was able to control the acute phase infection as effectively as benznidazole. Splenomegaly was caused by EOW treatment and lymphadenopathy was stimulated by T. cruzi infection in all groups. Severe tissue damage was not prevented by EOW treatments. Moderate efficacy may be due to immunomodulatory properties and not to a direct toxic effect on the parasite.
In Vitro and Ex Vivo Evaluation of Penetratin as a Non-invasive Permeation Enhancer in the Penetration of Salmon Calcitonin through TR146 Buccal Cells and Porcine Buccal Tissues
Authors: Keum Taekwang , Noh Gyubin , Seo Jo-Eun , Bashyal Santosh , Lee Sangkil
Published: November 2020

Buccal tissues are considered one of the potential alternative delivery route because of fast drug absorption and onset of action due to high vascularization and a non-keratinized epithelial membrane. In this study, the effect of Penetratin on the permeation of salmon calcitonin (sCT), a model macromolecular peptide drug, through TR146 buccal cells and porcine buccal tissues has been evaluated. To observe permeation profile of sCT, TR146 buccal cells were treated with Alexa 647 conjugated sCT (Alexa 647-sCT) with different concentrations of fluorescein isothiocyanate -labeled Penetratin (FITC-Penetratin) ranging from 0 to 40 μM, and analyzed using flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Intracellular penetration of FITC-Penetratin rapidly increased at low concentrations from 0 to 15 μM and it gradually increased at concentrations above 15 μM. Intracellular penetration of Alexa 647-sCT enhanced with the increase of FITC-Penetratin concentration. When TR146 cell layers and buccal tissues were co-treated with sCT and Penetratin as permeation enhancer, the flux of sCT increased as per Penetratin concentration. Compared to the control, 12.2 μM of Penetratin enhanced the flux of sCT in TR146 cell layers and buccal tissues by 5.5-fold and 93.7-fold, respectively. These results strongly suggest that Penetratin may successfully act as a non-invasive permeation enhancer for macromolecular peptide drug delivery through buccal routes.
VEGF-Related Germinal Polymorphisms May Identify a Subgroup of Breast Cancer Patients with Favorable Outcome under Bevacizumab-Based Therapy—A Message from COMET, a French Unicancer Multicentric Study
Authors: Gal Jocelyn , Milano Gérard , Brest Patrick , Ebran Nathalie , Gilhodes Julia , Llorca Laurence , Dubot Coraline , Romieu Gilles , Desmoulins Isabelle , Brain Etienne , Goncalves Anthony , Ferrero Jean-Marc , Cottu Paul-Henri , Debled Marc , Tredan Olivier , Chamorey Emmanuel , Merlano Marco Carlo , Lemonnier Jérôme , Etienne-Grimaldi Marie-Christine , Pierga Jean-Yves
Published: November 2020

The prospective multicenter COMET trial followed a cohort of 306 consecutive metastatic breast cancer patients receiving bevacizumab and paclitaxel as first-line chemotherapy. This study was intended to identify and validate reliable biomarkers to better predict bevacizumab treatment outcomes and allow for a more personalized use of this antiangiogenic agent. To that end, we aimed to establish risk scores for survival prognosis dichotomization based on classic clinico-pathological criteria combined or not with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The genomic DNA of 306 patients was extracted and a panel of 13 SNPs, covering seven genes previously documented to be potentially involved in drug response, were analyzed by means of high-throughput genotyping. In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses, the hazard model based on a triple-negative cancer phenotype variable, combined with specific SNPs in VEGFA (rs833061), VEGFR1 (rs9582036) and VEGFR2 (rs1870377), had the highest predictive value. The overall survival hazard ratio of patients assigned to the poor prognosis group based on this model was 3.21 (95% CI (2.33–4.42); p < 0.001). We propose that combining this pharmacogenetic approach with classical clinico-pathological characteristics could markedly improve clinical decision-making for breast cancer patients receiving bevacizumab-based therapy.
Association of 5-FU Therapeutic Drug Monitoring to DPD Phenotype Assessment May Reduce 5-FU Under-Exposure
Authors: Dolat Marine , Macaire Pauline , Goirand Françoise , Vincent Julie , Hennequin Audrey , Palmier Rémi , Bengrine-Lefevre Leïla , Ghiringhelli François , Royer Bernard , Schmitt Antonin
Published: November 2020

In order to limit 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) toxicity, some health agencies recommend evaluating dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency before any 5-FU treatment introduction. In our study, we investigated relationships between 5-FU clearance and markers of DPD activity such as uracilemia (U), dihydrouracilemia (UH2)/U ratio, or genotype of the gene encoding DPD (DPYD). All patients with gastrointestinal cancers who received 5-FU-based regimens form March 2018 to June 2020 were included in our study. They routinely benefited of a pre-therapeutic DPYD genotyping and phenotyping. During 5-FU infusion, blood samples were collected to measure 5-FU steady-state concentration in order to adapt 5-FU doses at the following cycles. A total of 169 patients were included. Median age was 68 (40–88) years and main primary tumor sites were colorectal (40.8%) and pancreas (31.4%), metastatic in 76.3%. 5-FU was given as part of FOLFIRINOX (44.4%), simplified FOLFOX-6 (26.6%), or docetaxel/FOLFOX-4 (10.6%). Regarding DPD activity, median U and UH2/U were, respectively, 10.8 ng/mL and 10.1, and almost 15% harbored a heterozygous mutation. On the range of measured U and UH2/U, no correlation was observed with 5-FU clearance. Moreover, in patients with U < 16 ng/mL, 5-FU exposure was higher than in other patients, and most of them benefited of dose increase following 5-FU therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). If recent guidelines recommend decreasing 5-FU dose in patients harboring U ≥ 16 ng/mL, our study highlights that those patients are at risk of under-exposure and that 5-FU TDM should be conducted in order to avoid loss of efficacy.
Targeting of the Pilosebaceous Follicle by Liquid Crystal Nanocarriers: In Vitro and In Vivo Effects of the Entrapped Minoxidil
Authors: Fresta Massimo , Mancuso Antonia , Cristiano Maria Chiara , Urbanek Konrad , Cilurzo Felisa , Cosco Donato , Iannone Michelangelo , Paolino Donatella
Published: November 2020

The topical administration of active compounds represents an advantageous strategy to reach the various skin components as well as its appendages. Pilosebaceous follicles are skin appendages originating in the deeper skin layers. They are very difficult to target, and hence higher active dosages are generally required to achieve effective biological responses, thus favoring the rise of side effects. The aim of this work was to design a supramolecular colloidal carrier, i.e., a liquid crystal nanocarrier, for the selective delivery of active compounds into the pilosebaceous follicle. This nanocarrier showed mean sizes of ~80 nm, a good stability, a negative surface charge, and great safety properties. In vitro studies highlighted its ability to contain and release different substances and to successfully permeate the skin. Minoxidil was encapsulated in the nanocarriers and the in vivo biological effect was compared with a conventional dosage form. Minoxidil-loaded liquid crystal nanocarrier was able to selectively reach the pilosebaceous follicle, thus allowing an increased biological effectiveness of the delivered active in terms of biological response, duration of the biological effects, and reduction of collaterals. Our investigation showed that liquid crystal nanocarriers represent a promising device for the treatment of different pilosebaceous follicular impairments/diseases.
Oxoglutarate Carrier Inhibition Reduced Melanoma Growth and Invasion by Reducing ATP Production
Authors: Lee Jae-Seon , Choi Jiwon , Lee Seon-Hyeong , Kang Joon Hee , Ha Ji Sun , Kim Hee Yeon , Jang Hyonchol , Yook Jong In , Kim Soo-Youl
Published: November 2020

Recent findings indicate that (a) mitochondria in proliferating cancer cells are functional, (b) cancer cells use more oxygen than normal cells for oxidative phosphorylation, and (c) cancer cells critically rely on cytosolic NADH transported into mitochondria via the malate-aspartate shuttle (MAS) for ATP production. In a spontaneous lung cancer model, tumor growth was reduced by 50% in heterozygous oxoglutarate carrier (OGC) knock-out mice compared with wild-type counterparts. To determine the mechanism through which OGC promotes tumor growth, the effects of the OGC inhibitor N-phenylmaleimide (NPM) on mitochondrial activity, oxygen consumption, and ATP production were evaluated in melanoma cell lines. NPM suppressed oxygen consumption and decreased ATP production in melanoma cells in a dose-dependent manner. NPM also reduced the proliferation of melanoma cells. To test the effects of NPM on tumor growth and metastasis in vivo, NPM was administered in a human melanoma xenograft model. NPM reduced tumor growth by approximately 50% and reduced melanoma invasion by 70% at a dose of 20 mg/kg. Therefore, blocking OGC activity may be a useful approach for cancer therapy.
Differential Effects of 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 on the Expressions and Functions of Hepatic CYP and UGT Enzymes and Its Pharmacokinetic Consequences In Vivo
Authors: Doan Trang Nguyen Kieu , Vo Dang-Khoa , Kim Hyojung , Balla Anusha , Lee Yunjong , Yoon In-Soo , Maeng Han-Joo
Published: November 2020

The compound 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) is the active form of vitamin D3 and a representative ligand of the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Previous studies have described the impacts of 1,25(OH)2D3 on a small number of cytochrome P450 (CYP) and uridine diphosphate-glucuronyltransferase (UGT) enzymes, but comparatively little is known about interactions between several important CYP and UGT isoforms and 1,25(OH)2D3 in vitro and/or in vivo. Thus, we investigated the effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 on the gene and protein expressions and functional activities of selected CYPs and UGTs and their impacts on drug pharmacokinetics in rats. The mRNA/protein expressions of Cyp2b1 and Cyp2c11 were downregulated in rat liver by 1,25(OH)2D3. Consistently, the in vitro metabolic kinetics (Vmax and CLint) of BUP (bupropion; a Cyp2b1 substrate) and TOL (tolbutamide; a Cyp2c11 substrate) were significantly changed by 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment in liver microsomes, but the kinetics of acetaminophen (an Ugt1a6/1a7/1a8 substrate) remained unaffected, consistent with Western blotting data for Ugt1a6. In rat pharmacokinetic studies, the total body clearance (CL) and nonrenal clearance (CLNR) of BUP were significantly reduced by 1,25(OH)2D3, but unexpectedly, the total area under the plasma concentration versus time curve from time zero to infinity (AUC) of hydroxybupropion (HBUP) was increased probably due to a marked reduction in the renal clearance (CLR) of HBUP. Additionally, the AUC, CL, and CLNR for TOL and the AUC for 4-hydroxytolbutamide (HTOL) were unaffected by 1,25(OH)2D3 in vivo. Discrepancies between observed in vitro metabolic activity and in vivo pharmacokinetics of TOL were possibly due to a greater apparent distribution volume at the steady-state (Vss) and lower plasma protein binding in 1,25(OH)2D3-treated rats. Our results suggest possible drug-drug and drug-nutrient interactions and provide additional information concerning safe drug combinations and dosing regimens for patients taking VDR ligand drugs including 1,25(OH)2D3.
Characterization and Stress Response of the JmjC Domain-Containing Histone Demethylase Gene Family in the Allotetraploid Cotton Species Gossypium hirsutum
Authors: Zhang Jie , Feng Junping , Liu Wei , Ren Zhongying , Zhao Junjie , Pei Xiaoyu , Liu Yangai , Yang Daigang , Ma Xiongfeng
Published: November 2020

Histone modification is an important epigenetic modification that controls gene transcriptional regulation in eukaryotes. Histone methylation is accomplished by histone methyltransferase and can occur on two amino acid residues, arginine and lysine. JumonjiC (JmjC) domain-containing histone demethylase regulates gene transcription and chromatin structure by changing the methylation state of the lysine residue site and plays an important role in plant growth and development. In this study, we carried out genome-wide identification and comprehensive analysis of JmjC genes in the allotetraploid cotton species Gossypium hirsutum. In total, 50 JmjC genes were identified and in G. hirsutum, and 25 JmjC genes were identified in its two diploid progenitors, G. arboreum and G. raimondii, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis divided these JmjC genes into five subfamilies. A collinearity analysis of the two subgenomes of G. hirsutum and the genomes of G. arboreum and G. raimondii uncovered a one-to-one relationship between homologous genes of the JmjC gene family. Most homologs in the JmjC gene family between A and D subgenomes of G. hirsutum have similar exon-intron structures, which indicated that JmjC family genes were conserved after the polyploidization. All G. hirsutumJmjC genes were found to have a typical JmjC domain, and some genes also possess other special domains important for their function. Analysis of promoter regions revealed that cis-acting elements, such as those related to hormone and abiotic stress response, were enriched in G. hirsutum JmjC genes. According to a reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis, most G. hirsutumJmjC genes had high abundance expression at developmental stages of fibers, suggesting that they might participate in cotton fiber development. In addition, some G. hirsutumJmjC genes were found to have different degrees of response to cold or osmotic stress, thus indicating their potential role in these types of abiotic stress response. Our results provide useful information for understanding the evolutionary history and biological function of JmjC genes in cotton.
Effect of Adjuvants on Herbicidal Activity and Selectivity of Three Phytotoxins Produced by the Fungus, Stagonospora cirsii
Authors: Dubovik Vsevolod , Dalinova Anna , Berestetskiy Alexander
Published: November 2020

The use of many fungal phytotoxins as natural herbicides is still limited because they cannot penetrate leaf cuticle without injury and a little is known on their selectivity. In order to assess the herbicidal potential of phytotoxic 10-membered lactones (stagonolide A, stagonolide K, and herbarumin I), the selection of adjuvants, the evaluation of selectivity of the toxins and the efficacy of their formulations were performed. Among four adjuvants tested, Hasten™ (0.1%, v/v) increased phytotoxic activity of all the toxins assayed on non-punctured leaf discs of Sonchus arvensis. When assayed on intact leaf fragments of 18 plants species, 10 species were low to moderately sensitive to stagonolide A, while just five and three species were sensitive to stagonolide K and herbarumin I, respectively. Both leaf damage or addition of Hasten™ (0.1%) to the formulations of the compounds considerably increased or altered the sensitivity of plants to the toxins. Stagonolide A was shown to be non-selective phytotoxin. The selectivity profile of stagonolide K and herbarumin I depended on the leaf wounding or the adjuvant addition. Stagonolide A and herbarumin I formulated in 0.5% Hasten™ showed considerable herbicidal effect on S. arvensis aerial shoots. This study supported the potential of the oil-based adjuvant Hasten™ to increase the herbicidal efficacy of natural phytotoxins.