bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-Dose Aspirin for the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease in Diabetic Individuals: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Control Trials and Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Lin Ming-Hsun , Lee Chien-Hsing , Lin Chin , Zou Yi-Fen , Lu Chieh-Hua , Hsieh Chang-Hsun , Lee Cho-Hao
Published: May 2019

Background: Evidence of low-dose aspirin as the primary prevention strategy for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in diabetes are unclear. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of low-dose aspirin use for the primary prevention of CVD in diabetes. Methods: We collected randomized controlled trials of low-dose aspirin for the primary prevention of CVD in adults with diabetes lasting at least 12 months from Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library up to 10 November 2018. Two reviewers extracted data and appraised the reporting quality according to a predetermined protocol (CRD4201811830). This review was conducted using Cochrane standards, trial sequential analysis, and the Grading of Recommendation. The primary outcomes were major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE, including non-fatal myocardial infarction, ischemia stroke, and cardiovascular death) and an incidence of major hemorrhage (major intracranial hemorrhage and major gastrointestinal bleeding). Results: In this primary prevention (number = 29,814 participants) meta-analysis, low-dose aspirin use reduced the risk of MACE by 9% and increased the risk of major hemorrhage by 24%. The benefits were only observed in subjects of age ≥ 60 years while reducing the same risk of MACE. In efficacy, it reduced the risk of stroke but not myocardial infarction. No increase in all-cause mortality or cardiovascular death was observed. Conclusions: We suggested the use of low-dose aspirin as the primary prevention strategy for CVD in diabetes, particularly in an older population. The absolute benefits were largely counterbalanced by the bleeding hazard.
Migration of the Lag Screw after Intramedullary Treatment of AO/OTA 31.A2.1-3 Pertrochanteric Fractures Does Not Result in Higher Incidence of Cut-Outs, Regardless of Which Implant Was Used: A Comparison of Gamma Nail with and without U-Blade (RC) Lag Screw and Proximal Femur Nail Antirotation (PFNA)
Authors: Lang Nikolaus Wilhelm , Breuer Robert , Beiglboeck Hannes , Munteanu Alexandru , Hajdu Stefan , Windhager Reinhard , Widhalm Harald Kurt
Published: May 2019

The best intramedullary nail for the treatment of unstable AO/OTA 31.A2.1-3 fractures remains uncertain. A total of 237 patients (45 male, 192 female) were eligible for the assessment with an average age of 81.9 ± 10.5 years and a minimum follow-up of six months. We assessed the cut-out rate, the TAD and calTAD (Tip Apex distance) of three different implants. An overall cut-out rate of 2.5% (n = 6) was observed. The cut-out rate was 1.2% (n = 1) in the Proximal Femur Nail Antirotation (PFNA) group, 3.7% (n = 3) in the Gamma Nail group and 2.9% (n = 2) in the Gamma3® with a U-Blade (RC) lag-screw group. The TAD and calTAD differed between the cut-out and non-cut group—20.0 mm vs. 18.5 mm and 13.1 mm vs. 15.3 mm, respectively. A significantly higher TAD of 32.5 mm could be seen in the cut-out after PFNA (p < 0.0001). The only significant change in follow-up using Parker’s ratio was observed in the PFNA group (p < 0.0001). The rate of patients requiring surgery after complications was 8.4% (n = 20) without any significant difference between the three groups. The PFNA blade showed significant migration within the femoral head, however the cut-out rate remained the smallest compared to Gamma3 with or without additional U-Blade (RC) lag screw.
Comparative Study between an Immediate Loading Protocol Using the Digital Workflow and a Conventional Protocol for Dental Implant Treatment: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Rattanapanich Piyanut , Aunmeungtong Weerapan , Chaijareenont Pisaisit , Khongkhunthian Pathawee
Published: May 2019

Background: The purposes of this randomized clinical trial study was to compare the immediate loading of dental implants while employing digital workflow and conventional implants in terms of the success rate, marginal bone level, and patient satisfaction. Methods: Fifty patients who had edentulous area on the mandibular premolar or molar area were included in the study. Twenty-five patients were assigned to immediate loading implant treatment using the digital technique and 25 patients were assigned to conventional loading implant treatment. In the first group, the patients were received digital impression (Cerec Omnicam, Dentsply Sirona®, York, PA, USA), designed, producing zirconia crown, and inserted on the same surgery day. The second group, after a healing period of three months, was received analog impression following conventional impression for the zirconia crown. Clinical outcome and radiographic bone level were evaluated after three, six, and 12 months. Patient satisfaction was measured at 12 months after inserting the implant. Results: There was no implants and protheses failure in both groups. The mean resonance frequency analysis values at the day of surgery were 78.26 ± 4.09 in immediate loading using the digital group (ILD) and 73.74 ± 5.14 in the conventional loading group (CL), respectively. Insertion torque values at the day of surgery were 36.60 ± 12.64 in ILD and 38.8 ± 12.19 CL, respectively. The marginal bone level in CL at three, six, and 12 months were 0.14 ± 0.28 mm, 0.18 ± 0.30 mm, and 0.17 ± 0.29 mm, respectively, while in ILD at three, six, and 12 months were 0.18 ± 0.33 mm and 0.16 ± 0.27 mm and 0.15 ± 0.31, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Only one question in patient satisfaction’s questionnaire was “Now, can your dental implant and crown be used well?” had been significantly different in favor to the conventional group. Conclusion: Within the limitation of this study, it may be concluded that, after one-year follow up, there were no statistically significant differences between the immediate loading of dental implants employed from the digital workflow and conventional implant treatment technique in the success rate and marginal bone level. In patient satisfaction, there was only statistic significant difference in question related to implant prosthetic function in favor of the CL group, whereas the question concerning speaking, cleansing, price, and expectation displayed no difference.
Longitudinal Changes in Insulin Resistance in Normal Weight, Overweight and Obese Individuals
Authors: Tang Alice , Coster Adelle C. F. , Tonks Katherine T. , Heilbronn Leonie K. , Pocock Nicholas , Purtell Louise , Govendir Matthew , Blythe Jackson , Zhang Jialiang , Xu Aimin , Chisholm Donald J. , Johnson Nathan A. , Greenfield Jerry R. , Samocha-Bonet Dorit
Published: May 2019

Background: Large cohort longitudinal studies have almost unanimously concluded that metabolic health in obesity is a transient phenomenon, diminishing in older age. We aimed to assess the fate of insulin sensitivity per se over time in overweight and obese individuals. Methods: Individuals studied using the hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research from 2008 to 2010 (n = 99) were retrospectively grouped into Lean (body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m2) or overweight/obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2), with the latter further divided into insulin-sensitive (ObSen) or insulin-resistant (ObRes), based on median clamp M-value (M/I, separate cut-offs for men and women). Fifty-seven individuals participated in a follow-up study after 5.4 ± 0.1 years. Hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and circulating cardiovascular markers were measured again at follow-up, using the same protocols used at baseline. Liver fat was measured using computed tomography at baseline and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy at follow-up with established cut-offs applied for defining fatty liver. Results: In the whole cohort, M/I did not change over time (p = 0.40); it remained significantly higher at follow-up in ObSen compared with ObRes (p = 0.02), and was not different between ObSen and Lean (p = 0.41). While BMI did not change over time (p = 0.24), android and visceral fat increased significantly in this cohort (ptime ≤ 0.0013), driven by ObRes (p = 0.0087 and p = 0.0001, respectively). Similarly, systolic blood pressure increased significantly over time (ptime = 0.0003) driven by ObRes (p = 0.0039). The best correlate of follow-up M/I was baseline M/I (Spearman’s r = 0.76, p = 1.1 × 10−7). Conclusions: The similarity in insulin sensitivity between the ObSen and the Lean groups at baseline persisted over time. Insulin resistance in overweight and obese individuals predisposed to further metabolic deterioration over time.
Ink-bottle Effect and Pore Size Distribution of Cementitious Materials Identified by Pressurization–Depressurization Cycling Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry
Authors: Zhang Yong , Yang Bin , Yang Zhengxian , Ye Guang
Published: May 2019

Capturing the long-term performance of concrete must be underpinned by a detailed understanding of the pore structure. Mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) is a widely used technique for pore structure characterization. However, it has been proven inappropriate to measure the pore size distribution of cementitious materials due to the ink-bottle effect. MIP with cyclic pressurization–depressurization can overcome the ink-bottle effect and enables a distinction between large (ink-bottle) pores and small (throat) pores. In this paper, pressurization–depressurization cycling mercury intrusion porosimetry (PDC-MIP) is adopted to characterize the pore structure in a range of cementitious pastes cured from 28 to 370 days. The results indicate that PDC-MIP provides a more accurate estimation of the pore size distribution in cementitious pastes than the standard MIP. Bimodal pore size distributions can be obtained by performing PDC-MIP measurements on cementitious pastes, regardless of the age. Water–binder ratio, fly ash and limestone powder have considerable influences on the formation of capillary pores ranging from 0.01 to 0.5 µm.
A Soft Polydimethylsiloxane Liquid Metal Interdigitated Capacitor Sensor and Its Integration in a Flexible Hybrid System for On-Body Respiratory Sensing
Authors: Li Yida , Nayak Suryakanta , Luo Yuxuan , Liu Yijie , Salila Vijayalal Mohan Hari Krishna , Pan Jieming , Liu Zhuangjian , Heng Chun Huat , Thean Aaron Voon-Yew
Published: May 2019

We report on the dual mechanical and proximity sensing effect of soft-matter interdigitated (IDE) capacitor sensors, together with its modelling using finite element (FE) simulation to elucidate the sensing mechanism. The IDE capacitor is based on liquid-phase GaInSn alloy (Galinstan) embedded in a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfludics channel. The use of liquid-metal as a material for soft sensors allows theoretically infinite deformation without breaking electrical connections. The capacitance sensing is a result of E-field line disturbances from electrode deformation (mechanical effect), as well as floating electrodes in the form of human skin (proximity effect). Using the proximity effect, we show that spatial detection as large as 28 cm can be achieved. As a demonstration of a hybrid electronic system, we show that by integrating the IDE capacitors with a capacitance sensing chip, respiration rate due to a human’s chest motion can be captured, showing potential in its implementation for wearable health-monitoring.
An Assessment of Initial Leaching Characteristics of Alkali-Borosilicate Glasses for Nuclear Waste Immobilization
Authors: Farid Osama , Ojovan Michael , Massoud A. , Abdel Rahman R.O.
Published: May 2019

Initial leaching characteristics of simulated nuclear waste immobilized in three alkali- borosilicate glasses (ABS-waste) were studied. The effects of matrix composition on the containment performance and degradation resistance measures were evaluated. Normalized release rates are in conformance with data reported in the literature. High Li and Mg loadings lead to the highest initial de-polymerization of sample ABS-waste (17) and contributed to its thermodynamic instability. Ca stabilizes non-bridging oxygen (NBO) and reduces the thermodynamic instability of the modified matrix. An exponential temporal change in the alteration thickness was noted for samples ABS-waste (17) and Modified Alkali-Borosilicate (MABS)-waste (20), whereas a linear temporal change was noted for sample ABS-waste (25). Leaching processes that contribute to the fractional release of all studied elements within the initial stage of glass corrosion were quantified and the main controlling leach process for each element was identified. As the waste loading increases, the contribution of the dissolution process to the overall fractional release of structural elements decreases by 43.44, 5.05, 38.07, and 52.99% for Si, B, Na, and Li respectively, and the presence of modifiers reduces this contribution for all the studied metalloids. The dissolution process plays an important role in controlling the release of Li and Cs, and this role is reduced by increasing the waste loading.
A Novel Textile Stitch-Based Strain Sensor for Wearable End Users
Authors: Tangsirinaruenart Orathai , Stylios George
Published: May 2019

This research presents an investigation of novel textile-based strain sensors and evaluates their performance. The electrical resistance and mechanical properties of seven different textile sensors were measured. The sensors are made up of a conductive thread, composed of silver plated nylon 117/17 2-ply, 33 tex and 234/34 4-ply, 92 tex and formed in different stitch structures (304, 406, 506, 605), and sewn directly onto a knit fabric substrate (4.44 tex/2 ply, with 2.22, 4.44 and 7.78 tex spandex and 7.78 tex/2 ply, with 2.22 and 4.44 tex spandex). Analysis of the effects of elongation with respect to resistance indicated the ideal configuration for electrical properties, especially electrical sensitivity and repeatability. The optimum linear working range of the sensor with minimal hysteresis was found, and the sensor’s gauge factor indicated that the sensitivity of the sensor varied significantly with repeating cycles. The electrical resistance of the various stitch structures changed significantly, while the amount of drift remained negligible. Stitch 304 2-ply was found to be the most suitable for strain movement. This sensor has a wide working range, well past 50%, and linearity (R2 is 0.984), low hysteresis (6.25% ΔR), good gauge factor (1.61), and baseline resistance (125 Ω), as well as good repeatability (drift in R2 is −0.0073). The stitch-based sensor developed in this research is expected to find applications in garments as wearables for physiological wellbeing monitoring such as body movement, heart monitoring, and limb articulation measurement.
Mapping the Tray of Electron Beam Melting of Ti-6Al-4V: Properties and Microstructure
Authors: Tiferet E. , Ganor M. , Zolotaryov D. , Garkun A. , Hadjadj A. , Chonin M. , Ganor Y. , Noiman D. , Halevy I. , Tevet O. , Yeheskel O.
Published: May 2019

Using an electron beam melting (EBM) printing machine (Arcam A2X, Sweden), a matrix of 225 samples (15 rows and 15 columns) of Ti-6Al-4V was produced. The density of the specimens across the tray in the as-built condition was approximately 99.9% of the theoretical density of the alloy, ρT. Tensile strength, tensile elongation, and fatigue life were studied for the as-built samples. Location dependency of the mechanical properties along the build area was observed. Hot isostatic pressing (HIP) slightly increased the density to 99.99% of ρT but drastically improved the fatigue endurance and tensile elongation, probably due to the reduction in the size and the distribution of flaws. The microstructure of the as-built samples contained various defects (e.g., lack of fusion, porosity) that were not observed in the HIP-ed samples. HIP also reduced some of the location related variation in the mechanical properties values, observed in the as-printed condition.
Influence of Refractive Index on Antireflectance Efficiency of Thin Films
Authors: Khan Sadaf Bashir , Irfan Syed , Zhuanghao Zheng , Lee Shern Long
Published: May 2019

In today’s world, scientific development is tremendously strengthened by imitating natural processes. This development remarkably validates progressive and efficient operation of multifunctional thin films in variable ecological circumstances. We use TFCalc thinfilm software, a reliable and trustworthy simulation tool, to design antireflective (AR) coatings for solar cells that can operate in varying environmental conditions and can be functional according to user-defined conditions. Silicon nearly reflects 36% light in the 550 nm wavelength region, causing a significant loss in solar cell efficiency. We used silicon as the substrate on which we designed and fabricated a trilayer inorganic oxide AR thin films, and this reduced it reflectance to <4% in the 300~800 nm wavelength range. Because of their distinguishing physical physiognomies, we used a combination of different inorganic oxides, comprising high-, low-, and medium-refractive indices, to model AR coatings in the desired wavelength range. Experimental implementation of the designed AR thin films in the present study unlocks new techniques for production of competent, wideband-tunable AR coatings that are applicable in high-performance photovoltaic applications.
Effects of the Limestone Particle Size on the Sulfation Reactivity at Low SO2 Concentrations Using a LC-TGA
Authors: Cai Runxia , Huang Yiqun , Li Yiran , Wu Yuxin , Zhang Hai , Zhang Man , Yang Hairui , Lyu Junfu
Published: May 2019

Limestone particle size has a crucial influence on SO2 capture efficiency, however there are few studies on the sulfation reactivity, which covers a broad range of particle sizes at low SO2 concentrations. In this paper, a large-capacity thermogravimetric analyzer (LC-TGA) was developed to obtain the sulfur removal reaction rate under a wide range of particle sizes (3 μm–600 μm) and SO2 concentrations (250 ppm–2000 ppm), and then compared with the results of a traditional fixed bed reactor and a commercial TGA. The experimental results showed that the LC-TGA can well eliminate the external mass transfer and obtain a better measurement performance. Both the final conversion and the reaction rate reduced with the decreasing of SO2 concentration, but ultrafine limestone particles still showed the good sulfation reactivity even at 250 ppm SO2. An empirical sulfation model was established based on the experimental results, which can well predict the sulfation process of different limestone particle sizes at low SO2 concentrations. The model parameters have a strong negative correlation against the particle size, and the fit of the reaction order of SO2 was found to be about 0.6. The model form is very simple to incorporate it into available fluidized bed combustion models to predict SO2 emission.
Synthesis of Metallic Nanocrystals: From Noble Metals to Base Metals
Authors: Bai Liuyang , Ouyang Yuge , Song Jun , Xu Zhi , Liu Wenfu , Hu Jingyu , Wang Yinling , Yuan Fangli
Published: May 2019

Metallic nanocrystals exhibit superior properties to their bulk counterparts because of the reduced sizes, diverse morphologies, and controllable exposed crystal facets. Therefore, the fabrication of metal nanocrystals and the adjustment of their properties for different applications have attracted wide attention. One of the typical examples is the fabrication of nanocrystals encased with high-index facets, and research on their magnified catalytic activities and selections. Great accomplishment has been achieved within the field of noble metals such as Pd, Pt, Ag, and Au. However, it remains challenging in the fabrication of base metal nanocrystals such as Ni, Cu, and Co with various structures, shapes, and sizes. In this paper, the synthesis of metal nanocrystals is reviewed. An introduction is briefly given to the metal nanocrystals and the importance of synthesis, and then commonly used synthesis methods for metallic nanocrystals are summarized, followed by specific examples of metal nanocrystals including noble metals, alloys, and base metals. The synthesis of base metal nanocrystals is far from satisfactory compared to the tremendous success achieved in noble metals. Afterwards, we present a discussion on specific synthesis methods suitable for base metals, including seed-mediated growth, ligand control, oriented attachment, chemical etching, and Oswald ripening, based on the comprehensive consideration of thermodynamics, kinetics, and physical restrictions. At the end, conclusions are drawn through the prospect of the future development direction.
Comparison of Screw-In Forces during Movement of Endodontic Files with Different Geometries, Alloys, and Kinetics
Authors: Kwak Sang Won , Lee Chan-Joo , Kim Sung Kyo , Kim Hyeon-Cheol , Ha Jung-Hong
Published: May 2019

This study compared the maximum screw-in forces of various instruments during their movements. Forty simulated canals in resin blocks were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10): ProTaper Universal F2, ProTaper Gold F2, WaveOne Primary, and WaveOne Gold Primary. To standardize a lumen size, all artificial canals were prepared with ProTaper Universal F1. The rotation speed was set at 350 rpm with an automated 4 mm pecking motion at a speed of 1 mm/s. The pecking depth was increased by 1 mm for each pecking motion until the file reached the working length. During instrumentation, screw-in forces were automatically recorded by customized software. Maximum screw-in forces were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc comparison with the significance level at 0.05. WaveOne Gold files generated the lowest maximum screw-in forces, followed by ProTaper Gold, WaveOne, and ProTaper Universal (p < 0.05). Under the condition of this study, heat-treated nickel–titanium (NiTi) files with smaller cross-sectional area, fewer contact points, and reciprocating movements resulted in a lower screw-in effect.
Evaluating the Effects of High RAP Content and Rejuvenating Agents on Fatigue Performance of Fine Aggregate Matrix through DMA Flexural Bending Test
Authors: Zhang Chenchen , Ren Qi , Qian Zhendong , Wang Xudong
Published: May 2019

High percentage reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is prevailing in pavement engineering for its advantages in sustainability and environmental friendliness, however, its fatigue resistance remains a major concern. Fine aggregate matrix (FAM) is a crucial part in the fatigue resistance of asphalt mixtures with high RAP content. Hence, the linear amplitude sweep (LAS) test of FAM has been developed to study the fatigue resistance of asphalt mixtures. However, the torsional loading mode of the LAS test with a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) is a limitation to simulate traffic load. In this paper, an alternative LAS test for FAM with high RAP content was proposed. Beam FAM specimens were tested using a dual-cantilever flexural loading fixture in a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA). To investigate the influence of RAP content and the rejuvenating agent (RA), four kinds of FAM mixes were tested with this method to study their fatigue resistance. The test results suggested that the repeatability of this alternative approach was reliable. A fatigue failure criterion based on maximum C × N was defined. Then, fatigue life prediction models based on viscoelastic continuum damage (VECD) analysis were established according to the LAS test results and validated by a strain-controlled time sweep (TS) test. It turned out that as RAP content increased, the modulus of FAM would be significantly raised, accompanied with a drop in the phase angle. The fatigue life of FAM would be greatly shortened when the RAP binder replacement rate reached 50%. Adding RA could considerably improve the dynamic properties of FAM mixes with high RAP content, resulting in a decrease in modulus, increase in phase angle and elongating fatigue life, but could not recover to the level of virgin binder.
Extracts from Cell Suspension Cultures of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch): Cytotoxic Effects on Human Cancer Cells
Authors: Lucioli Simona , Pastorino Fabio , Nota Paolo , Ballan Giulia , Frattarelli Andrea , Fabbri Alessia , Forni Cinzia , Caboni Emilia
Published: May 2019

Natural compounds are emerging as agents for the treatment of malignant diseases. We previously showed that extracts from in vitro cell suspension cultures of strawberry reduced murine melanoma cell proliferation, as shown for fruit extracts. In this work, chromatographic, mass spectrometric, and spectrophotometric analyses were carried out to identify the bioactive compound exerting the detected cytotoxic activity. Moreover, aiming to confirm the anti-proliferative activity of the extracts against both paediatric and adult human tumors, cytotoxic experiments were performed on neuroblastoma, colon, and cervix carcinoma cell lines. Extracts from in vitro cell suspension cultures of strawberry induced a statistically significant reduction of cell growth in all the tumor cell lines tested. Interestingly, human fibroblasts from healthy donors were not subjected to this cytotoxic effect, highlighting the importance of further preclinical investigations. The accurate mass measurement, fragmentation patterns, and characteristic mass spectra and mass losses, together with the differences in chromatographic retention times and absorbance spectra, led us to hypothesize that the compound acting as an anti-proliferative agent could be a novel acetal dihydrofurofuran derivative (C8H10O3, molecular mass 154.0630 amu)
New Quinolone-Based Thiosemicarbazones Showing Activity Against Plasmodium falciparum and Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Beteck Richard M. , Seldon Ronnett , Jordaan Audrey , Warner Digby F. , Hoppe Heinrich C. , Laming Dustin , Khanye Setshaba D.
Published: May 2019

Co-infection of malaria and tuberculosis, although not thoroughly investigated, has been noted. With the increasing prevalence of tuberculosis in the African region, wherein malaria is endemic, it is intuitive to suggest that the probability of co-infection with these diseases is likely to increase. To avoid the issue of drug-drug interactions when managing co-infections, it is imperative to investigate new molecules with dual activities against the causal agents of these diseases. To this effect, a small library of quinolone-thiosemicarbazones was synthesised and evaluated in vitro against Plasmodium falciparum and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causal agents of malaria and tuberculosis, respectively. The compounds were also evaluated against HeLa cells for overt cytotoxicity. Most compounds in this series exhibited activities against both organisms, with compound 10, emerging as the hit; with an MIC90 of 2 µM against H37Rv strain of M. tuberculosis and an IC50 of 1 µM against the 3D7 strain of P. falciparum. This study highlights quinolone-thiosemicarabazones as a class of compounds that can be exploited further in search of novel, safe agents with potent activities against both the causal agents of malaria and tuberculosis.
Triazolopeptides Inhibiting the Interaction between Neuropilin-1 and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-165
Authors: Fedorczyk Bartlomiej , Lipiński Piotr F. J. , Puszko Anna K. , Tymecka Dagmara , Wilenska Beata , Dudka Wioleta , Perret Gerard Y. , Wieczorek Rafal , Misicka Aleksandra
Published: May 2019

Inhibiting the interaction of neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has become an interesting mechanism for potential anticancer therapies. In our previous works, we have obtained several submicromolar inhibitors of this interaction, including branched pentapeptides of general structure Lys(Har)-Xxx-Xxx-Arg. With the intent to improve the proteolytic stability of our inhibitors, we turned our attention to 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazoles as peptide bond isosteres. In the present contribution, we report the synthesis of 23 novel triazolopeptides along with their inhibitory activity. The compounds were synthesized using typical peptide chemistry methods, but with a conversion of amine into azide completely on solid support. The inhibitory activity of the synthesized derivatives spans from 9.2% to 58.1% at 10 μM concentration (the best compound Lys(Har)-GlyΨ[Trl]GlyΨ[Trl]Arg, 3, IC50 = 8.39 μM). Synthesized peptidotriazoles were tested for stability in human plasma and showed remarkable resistance toward proteolysis, with half-life times far exceeding 48 h. In vitro cell survival test resulted in no significant impact on bone marrow derived murine cells 32D viability. By means of molecular dynamics, we were able to propose a binding mode for compound 3 and discuss the observed structure–activity relationships.
Use of Multiflora Bee Pollen as a Flor Velum Yeast Growth Activator in Biological Aging Wines
Authors: Sancho-Galán Pau , Amores-Arrocha Antonio , Jiménez-Cantizano Ana , Palacios Víctor
Published: May 2019

Flor velum yeast growth activators during biological aging are currently unknown. In this sense, this research focuses on the use of bee pollen as a flor velum activator. Bee pollen influence on viable yeast development, surface hydrophobicity, and yeast assimilable nitrogen has already been studied. Additionally, bee pollen effects on the main compounds related to flor yeast metabolism and wine sensory characteristics have been evaluated. “Fino” (Sherry) wine was supplemented with bee pollen using six different doses ranging from 0.1 to 20 g/L. Its addition in a dose equal or greater than 0.25 g/L can be an effective flor velum activator, increasing yeast populations and its buoyancy due to its content of yeast assimilable nitrogen and fatty acids. Except for the 20 g/L dose, pollen did not induce any significant effect on flor velum metabolism, physicochemical parameters, organic acids, major volatile compounds, or glycerol. Sensory analysis showed that low bee pollen doses increase wine’s biological aging attributes, obtaining the highest score from the tasting panel. Multiflora bee pollen could be a natural oenological tool to enhance flor velum development and wine sensory qualities. This study confirms association between the bee pollen dose applied and the flor velum growth rate. The addition of bee pollen could help winemakers to accelerate or reimplant flor velum in biologically aged wines.
A Deeper Investigation of Drug Degradation Mixtures Using a Combination of MS and NMR Data: Application to Indapamide
Authors: Palaric Cécile , Molinié Roland , Cailleu Dominique , Fontaine Jean-Xavier , Mathiron David , Mesnard François , Gut Yoann , Renaud Tristan , Petit Alain , Pilard Serge
Published: May 2019

A global approach that is based on a combination of mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data has been developed for a complete and rapid understanding of drug degradation mixtures. We proposed a workflow based on a sample preparation protocol that is compatible to MS and NMR, the selection of the most appropriate experiments for each technique, and the implementation of prediction software and multivariable analysis method for a better interpretation and correlation of MS and NMR spectra. We have demonstrated the efficient quantification of the remaining active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). The unambiguous characterization of degradation products (DPs) was reached while using the potential of ion mobility-mass spectrometry (IM-MS) for fragment ions filtering (HDMSE) and the implementation of two-dimensional (2D) NMR experiments with the non-uniform sampling (NUS) method. We have demonstrated the potential of quantitative NMR (qNMR) for the estimation of low level DPs. Finally, in order to simultaneously monitor multi-samples, the contribution of partial least squares (PLS) regression was evaluated. Our methodology was tested on three indapamide forced degradation conditions (acidic, basic, and oxidative) and it could be easily transposed in the drug development field to assist in the interpretation of complex mixtures (stability studies, impurities profiling, and biotransformation screening).
High Molecular Weight Hyaluronan Suppresses Macrophage M1 Polarization and Enhances IL-10 Production in PM2.5-Induced Lung Inflammation
Authors: Shi Qiwen , Zhao Lan , Xu Chenming , Zhang Leifang , Zhao Hang
Published: May 2019

PM2.5 is particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 μm or less. Airway macrophages are the key players regulating PM2.5-induced inflammation. High molecular weight hyaluronan (HMW-HA) has previously been shown to exert protective effects on PM2.5-induced acute lung injury and inflammation. However, little is known about the detailed mechanism. In this study, we aimed to determine whether HMW-HA alleviates PM2.5-induced pulmonary inflammation by modulating macrophage polarization. The levels of M1 biomarkers TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CXCL1, CXCL2, NOS2 and CD86, as well as M2 biomarkers IL-10, MRC1, and Arg-1 produced by macrophages were measured by ELISA, qPCR, and flow cytometry. In addition, the amount of M1 macrophages in lung tissues was examined by immunofluorescence of CD68 and NOS2. We observed a decline in PM2.5-induced M1 polarization both in macrophages and lung tissues when HMW-HA was administered simultaneously. Meanwhile, western blot analysis revealed that PM2.5-induced JNK and p38 phosphorylation was suppressed by HMW-HA. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo studies showed that co-stimulation with HMW-HA and PM2.5 promoted the expression and release of IL-10, but exhibited limited effects on the transcription of MRC1 and ARG1. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that HMW-HA ameliorates PM2.5-induced lung inflammation by repressing M1 polarization through JNK and p38 pathways and promoting the production of pro-resolving cytokine IL-10.
Identification of Floral Scent Profiles in Bearded Irises
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Sun Ye , Zhao Yanchun , Liu Chungui , Chen Xiulan , Li Fengtong , Bao Jianzhong
Published: May 2019

Bearded irises are ornamental plants with distinctive floral fragrance grown worldwide. To identify the floral scent profiles, twenty-seven accessions derived from three bearded iris, including Iris. germanica, I. pumila and I. pallida were used to investigate the composition and relative contents of floral scent components by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 219 floral scent components were detected in blooming flowers. The scent profile varied significantly among and within the three investigated species. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that terpenes, alcohols and esters contributed the most to the floral scent components and 1-caryophyllene, linalool, citronellol, methyl cinnamate, β-cedrene, thujopsene, methyl myristate, linalyl acetate, isosafrole, nerol, geraniol were identified as the major components. In a hierarchical cluster analysis, twenty-seven accessions could be clustered into six different groups, most of which had representative scent components such as linalool, citronellyl acetate, thujopsene, citronellol, methyl cinnamate and 1-caryophyllene. Our findings provide a theoretical reference for floral scent evaluation and breeding of bearded irises.
Sample Digestion and Combined Preconcentration Methods for the Determination of Ultra-Low Gold Levels in Rocks
Authors: Liu Yan-hong , Wan Bo , Xue Ding-shuai
Published: May 2019

The gold abundance in basic rocks, which normally varies between 0.5 and 5 ppb, has served as a very important indicator in many geoscience studies, including those focused on the planetary differentiation, redistribution of elements during the crustal process, and ore genesis. However, because gold is a monoisotopic element that exhibits a nugget effect, it is very difficult to quantify its ultra-low levels in rocks, which significantly limits our understanding of the origin of gold and its circulation between the Earth crust, mantle, and core. In this work, we summarize various sample digestion and combined preconcentration methods for the determination of gold amounts in rocks. They include fire assay, fire assay combined with Te coprecipitation and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) or laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, fusion combined with Te coprecipitation and anion exchange resins, dry chlorination, wet acid digestion combined with precipitation, ion exchange resins, solvent extraction, polyurethane foam, extraction chromatography, novel solid adsorbents, and direct determination by INAA. In addition, the faced challenges and future perspectives in this field are discussed.
Robustaflavone Isolated from Nandina domestica Using Bioactivity-Guided Fractionation Downregulates Inflammatory Mediators
Authors: Jo Ara , Yoo Hyun Ji , Lee Mina
Published: May 2019

Nandina domestica (Berberidaceae) has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of cough. This plant is distributed in Korea, Japan, China, and India This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory phytochemicals obtained from the N. domestica fruits. We isolated a biflavonoid-type phytochemical, robustaflavone (R), from N. domestica fruits through bioactivity-guided fractionation based on its capacity to inhibit inflammation. The anti-inflammatory mechanism of R isolated from N. domestica has not yet been studied. In the present study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory activities of R using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. We have shown that R reduces the production of nitric oxide (NO), pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and IL-6. Western blot analysis showed that R suppresses the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and downregulates the expression of LPS-induced nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and the phosphorylation of extracellular-regulated kinases (pERK 1/2). Moreover, R inhibited IL-8 release in LPS-induced human colonic epithelial cells (HT-29). These results suggest that R could be a potential therapeutic candidate for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Synthesis of Terpyridines: Simple Reactions—What Could Possibly Go Wrong?
Authors: Rocco Dalila , Housecroft Catherine E. , Constable Edwin C.
Published: May 2019

The preparation of 24-functionalized 12,22:26,32-terpyridines (4′-functionalized 3,2:6′,3″-terpyridines) by the reaction of three 4-alkoxybenzaldehydes with 3-acetylpyridine and ammonia was investigated; under identical reaction conditions, two (R =nC4H9, C2H5) gave the expected products whereas a third (R = nC3H7) gave only a cyclohexanol derivative derived from the condensation of three molecules of 3-acetylpyridine with two of 4-(n-propoxy)benzaldehyde. A comprehensive survey of “unexpected” products from reactions of ArCOCH3 derivatives with aromatic aldehydes is presented. Three different types of alternative product are identified.
Calibration Transfer Based on Affine Invariance for NIR without Transfer Standards
Authors: Zhao Yuhui , Zhao Ziheng , Shan Peng , Peng Silong , Yu Jinlong , Gao Shuli
Published: May 2019

Calibration transfer is an important field for near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy in practical applications. However, most transfer methods are constructed with standard samples, which are expensive and difficult to obtain. Taking this problem into account, this paper proposes a calibration transfer method based on affine invariance without transfer standards (CTAI). Our method can be utilized to adjust the difference between two instruments by affine transformation. CTAI firstly establishes a partial least squares (PLS) model of the master instrument to obtain score matrices and predicted values of the two instruments, and then the regression coefficients between each of the score vectors and predicted values are computed for the master instrument and the slave instrument, respectively. Next, angles and biases are calculated between the regression coefficients of the master instrument and the corresponding regression coefficients of the slave instrument, respectively. Finally, by introducing affine transformation, new samples are predicted based on the obtained angles and biases. A comparative study between CTAI and the other five methods was conducted, and the performances of these algorithms were tested with two NIR spectral datasets. The obtained experimental results show clearly that, in general CTAI is more robust and can also achieve the best Root Mean Square Error of test sets (RMSEPs). In addition, the results of statistical difference with the Wilcoxon signed rank test show that CTAI is generally better than the others, and at least statistically the same.
Nutrition Quality of Packaged Foods in Bogotá, Colombia: A Comparison of Two Nutrient Profile Models
Authors: Mora-Plazas Mercedes , Gómez Luis F. , Miles Donna R. , Parra Diana C , Taillie L. S.
Published: May 2019

Background: Front-of-package warning labels are an increasingly common policy and have been implemented to inform consumers of the nutritional quality of ultra-processed foods. This study examined the proportion of Colombian products that could be subjected to such regulations. Methods: Two nutrition profile models were compared: the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) model, and the nutrient profile established under the Chilean food labeling and advertising law (Chilean model). Products (n = 6708) exceeding nutrient criteria based on each model were identified as subject to regulation. Results: A total of 80.2% (PAHO model) to 66.4% (Chilean model) of foods met the criteria for regulation. The categories with the highest proportion of regulated products were meats (97.3% PAHO model; 87.5% Chilean model), sweets (95.6% PAHO) and snacks (Chilean model). The category with the lowest proportions of regulated products were cereals (47.3% PAHO model) and miscellaneous foods and fish/seafood (39.0% and 39.5%, respectively, Chilean model). Conclusions: Under both the PAHO and Chilean nutrient profile models, the majority of packaged foods available in Bogotá would be eligible to receive front-of-package warning labels. These results suggest a warning label law could have a major impact on the Colombian food supply, especially in the context of the growing prevalence of diet-related chronic diseases in Colombia.
Comparative Effectiveness Trial of an Obesity Prevention Intervention in EFNEP and SNAP-ED: Primary Outcomes
Authors: Buscemi Joanna , Odoms-Young Angela , Stolley Melinda R. , Schiffer Linda , Blumstein Lara , Clark Margaret H. , Berbaum Michael L. , McCaffrey Jennifer , Braunschweig Carol , Fitzgibbon Marian L.
Published: May 2019

There is a need to disseminate evidence-based childhood obesity prevention interventions on a broader scale to reduce obesity-related disparities among underserved children. The purpose of this study was to test the comparative effectiveness of an evidence-based obesity prevention intervention, Hip-Hop to Health (HH), delivered through Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAP-Ed) versus the standard curriculum delivered by the programs (Standard Nutrition Education (NE)). A nonequivalent control group design was delivered to compare the effectiveness of HH to NE on weight gain prevention and health behavior outcomes at EFNEP and SNAP-Ed sites. One hundred and fifty-three caregiver–child dyads (n = 103 in the HH group; n = 50 in the NE group) participated in the study. HH is an evidence-based dietary and physical activity intervention for low-income preschool children. The NE curriculum provided lessons for children that are consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010. Data were collected on demographics, anthropometrics, and behavioral variables for parent–child dyads at baseline and postintervention. Mixed model methods with random effects for site and participant were utilized. No differences in child or caregiver diet, physical activity, or screen time by group were found. No between-group differences in child BMI z-score were found; however, caregivers in the HH group lost significantly more weight than those in the NE group. Results from this trial can inform future dissemination efforts of evidenced-based programs for underserved families.
Body Shape Index Is a Stronger Predictor of Diabetes
Authors: Bawadi Hiba , Abouwatfa Merna , Alsaeed Sara , Kerkadi Abdelhamid , Shi Zumin
Published: May 2019

Anthropometric indicators can predict the development of diabetes among adults. Among them, a new indicator (Body Shape Index) was developed. Several cohort observational studies have demonstrated that A Body Shape Index (ABSI) is a prominent indicator for mortality and morbidity. Nevertheless, the predictive level of ABSI for diabetes varied among different ethnicities. This study aimed to assess the predictive level of ABSI for diabetes compared to BMI in the Qatari population. Date from 2536 Qatari adults aged 20–79 years attending the Qatar Biobank Study were used. Body height, weight, and waist circumference were measured. Blood samples were measured for glucose. The association between ABSI, BMI, and diabetes was assessed using a logistic regression. Both ABSI and BMI were positively associated with diabetes after adjusting for potential confounding factors. ABSI had a stronger association with diabetes than BMI. Per 1 SD increment of ABSI and BMI, the z-score had an odds ratios of 1.85 (1.54–2.23) and 1.34 (1.18–1.51) for diabetes, respectively. ABSI and BMI are significantly associated with diabetes in the Qatari population. ABSI is a better predictor for the risk of diabetes than BMI after the adjustment for age, gender, education, and physical activity.
The Role of Vitamin D in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Mechanism to Management
Authors: Fletcher Jane , Cooper Sheldon C. , Ghosh Subrata , Hewison Martin
Published: May 2019

Vitamin D has been linked to human health benefits that extend far beyond its established actions on calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism. One of the most well studied facets of extra-skeletal vitamin D is its activity as an immuno-modulator, in particular its potent anti-inflammatory effects. As a consequence, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with inflammatory diseases including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Low serum levels of the major circulating form of vitamin D, 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) are significantly more prevalent in patients with IBD, particularly in the winter and spring months when UV-induced synthesis of vitamin D is lower. Dietary malabsorption of vitamin D may also contribute to low serum 25(OH)D in IBD. The benefits of supplementation with vitamin D for IBD patients are still unclear, and improved vitamin D status may help to prevent the onset of IBD as well as ameliorating disease severity. Beneficial effects of vitamin D in IBD are supported by pre-clinical studies, notably with mouse models, where the active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25-(OH)2D) has been shown to regulate gastrointestinal microbiota function, and promote anti-inflammatory, tolerogenic immune responses. The current narrative review aims to summarise the different strands of data linking vitamin D and IBD, whilst also outlining the possible beneficial effects of vitamin D supplementation in managing IBD in humans.