bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost Analysis of Prefabricated Elements of the Ordinary and Lightweight Concrete Walls in Residential Construction
Authors: Kurpinska Marzena , Grzyl Beata , Kristowski Adam
Published: November 2019

Global economic growth causes an increase in natural resources exploitation, particularly in construction branch. The growing use of electricity contributes to climate change. Therefore, it is necessary to search the solutions, which will allow for reducing natural resources exploitation. One of the many opportunities to do that is the application of the recycled materials. The authors of the given article have analyzed three variants of construction solutions. One of them was the production of the walls of a building from reinforced concrete prefabricates with styrofoam insulation layer. The second variant for analysis were prefabricated walls from lightweight concrete, made of sintered clay aggregate with a foam core. The third proposed variant was a system of multi-layered walls, which was made of lightweight concrete with granulated expanded glass aggregate (GEGA). The main objective of the research was to assess the use of lightweight GEGA prefabricates, focusing on economic and technological aspects of the solution. The authors have analyzed the entire construction costs; ceilings and stairs were assumed as reinforced concrete elements. In calculations, the weight of the elements was taken into account, as well as transportation and mounting costs. On the basis of this cost analysis, it was concluded that the use of prefabricated element, made of lightweight concrete with GEGA, could be a replacement for the solutions, widely applied until these days. The analysis has also shown that the use of prefabricates with GEGA is sensible from the economic viewpoint, as it allows for saving construction time. Moreover, the solutions, proposed here, allow for saving natural resources and assuming a more environmentally friendly and caring attitude.
The Wear Responses of the Welded Joints of ASTM A335 Gr. P11 Steels Affected by Accelerated Flow Corrosion
Authors: Montero Javier , Filgueira Almudena , García-Diez Ana , Mier José Luís , Camba Carolina
Published: November 2019

This study shows the effects of wear on welded joints of ASTM A355 Gr. P11 “Seamless Ferritic Alloy-Steel Pipe for High Temperature Service” steels subjected to the welding procedures established by codes B31.1 and ASME III. The standard welding procedure establishes the following steps: a preheating process, welding and post-weld heat treatment. This generates a wear behavior that depends on the thermal cycles to which the different areas of the joint are subjected. The objective of this article was the study of the behavior against the flow-accelerated corrosion of the welded joints of a low alloy steel. There is the possibility of establishing welding procedures other than those established, while maintaining the safety ranges, depending on the field of application for the steel.
Feng-Liu Type Fixed Point Results for Multivalued Mappings in GMMS
Authors: Turkoglu Duran , Manav Nesrin
Published: November 2019

We present the concept of multivalued mappings in generalized modular metric spaces (GMMS). In addition, we give Caristi and Feng-Liu fixed point results for this type of mappings in GMMS. Then, we obtain an application for final outcomes in the sense of Jleli and Samet.
Predicting Contagion from the US Financial Crisis to International Stock Markets Using Dynamic Copula with Google Trends
Authors: Maneejuk Paravee , Yamaka Woraphon
Published: November 2019

The accuracy of contagion prediction has been one of the most widely investigated and challenging problems in economic research. Much effort has been devoted to investigating the key determinant of contagion and enhancing more powerful prediction models. In this study, we aim to improve the prediction of the contagion effect from the US stock market to the international stock markets by utilizing Google Trends as a new leading indicator for predicting contagion. To improve this contagion prediction, the dynamic copula models are used to investigate the structure of dependence between international markets and the US market, before, during, and after the occurrence of the US financial crisis in 2008. We also incorporate the Google Trends data as the exogenous variables in the time-varying copula equation. Thus, the ARMAX process is introduced. To investigate the predictive power of Google Trends, we employ the likelihood ratio test. Our empirical findings support that Google Trends is a significant leading indicator for predicting contagion in seven out of 10 cases: SP-FTSE, SP-TSX, SP-DAX, SP-Nikkei, SP-BVSP, SP-SSEC, and SP-BSESN pairs. Our Google-based models seem to predict particularly well the effect of the US crisis in 2008. In addition, we find that the contribution of Google Trends to contagion prediction varies among the different stock market pairs. This finding leads to our observation that the more volatile the market time-varying correlation, the more useful Google Trends.
Duality for Unified Higher-Order Minimax Fractional Programming with Support Function under Type-I Assumptions
Authors: Dubey Ramu , Mishra Vishnu Narayan , Ali Rifaqat
Published: November 2019

This article is devoted to discussing the nondifferentiable minimax fractional programming problem with type-I functions. We focus our study on a nondifferentiable minimax fractional programming problem and formulate a higher-order dual model. Next, we establish weak, strong, and strict converse duality theorems under generalized higher-order strictly pseudo ( V , α , ρ , d ) -type-I functions. In the final section, we turn our focus to study a nondifferentiable unified minimax fractional programming problem and the results obtained in this paper naturally unify. Further, we extend some previously known results on nondifferentiable minimax fractional programming in the literature.
Generalized F-Contractions on Product of Metric Spaces
Authors: Secelean Nicolae Adrian , Zhou Mi
Published: November 2019

Our purpose in this paper is to extend the fixed point results of a ψ F -contraction introduced by Secelean N.A. and Wardowski D. ( ψ F -Contractions: Not Necessarily Nonexpansive Picard Operators, Results. Math.70(3), 415–431 (2016)) defined on a metric space X into itself to the case of mapping defined on the product space X I , where I is a set of positive integers (natural numbers). Some improvements to the conditions imposed on function F and space X are provided. An illustrative example is given.
Towards Repayment Prediction in Peer-to-Peer Social Lending Using Deep Learning
Authors: Kim Ji-Yoon , Cho Sung-Bae
Published: November 2019

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) lending transactions take place by the lenders choosing a borrower and lending money. It is important to predict whether a borrower can repay because the lenders must bear the credit risk when the borrower defaults, but it is difficult to design feature extractors with very complex information about borrowers and loan products. In this paper, we present an architecture of deep convolutional neural network (CNN) for predicting the repayment in P2P social lending to extract features automatically and improve the performance. CNN is a deep learning model for classifying complex data, which extracts discriminative features automatically by convolution operation on lending data. We classify the borrower’s loan status by capturing the robust features and learning the patterns. Experimental results with 5-fold cross-validation show that our method automatically extracts complex features and is effective in repayment prediction on Lending Club data. In comparison with other machine learning methods, the standard CNN has achieved the highest performance with 75.86%. Exploiting various CNN models such as Inception, ResNet, and Inception-ResNet results in the state-of-the-art performance of 77.78%. We also demonstrate that the features extracted by our model are better performed by projecting the samples into the feature space.
Higher-Order Derivative-Free Iterative Methods for Solving Nonlinear Equations and Their Basins of Attraction
Authors: Li Jian , Wang Xiaomeng , Madhu Kalyanasundaram
Published: November 2019

Based on the Steffensen-type method, we develop fourth-, eighth-, and sixteenth-order algorithms for solving one-variable equations. The new methods are fourth-, eighth-, and sixteenth-order converging and require at each iteration three, four, and five function evaluations, respectively. Therefore, all these algorithms are optimal in the sense of Kung–Traub conjecture; the new schemes have an efficiency index of 1.587, 1.682, and 1.741, respectively. We have given convergence analyses of the proposed methods and also given comparisons with already established known schemes having the same convergence order, demonstrating the efficiency of the present techniques numerically. We also studied basins of attraction to demonstrate their dynamical behavior in the complex plane.
Three-Dimensional Printed Devices in Droplet Microfluidics
Authors: Zhang Jia , Ji Qinglei , Duan Huiling
Published: November 2019

Droplet microfluidics has become the most promising subcategory of microfluidics since it contributes numerous applications to diverse fields. However, fabrication of microfluidic devices for droplet formation, manipulation and applications is usually complicated and expensive. Three-dimensional printing (3DP) provides an exciting alternative to conventional techniques by simplifying the process and reducing the cost of fabrication. Complex and novel structures can be achieved via 3DP in a simple and rapid manner, enabling droplet microfluidics accessible to more extensive users. In this article, we review and discuss current development, opportunities and challenges of applications of 3DP to droplet microfluidics.
Quality and Safety of Fresh Chicken Fillets after High Pressure Processing: Survival of Indigenous Brochothrix thermosphacta and Inoculated Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Argyri Anthoula A. , Papadopoulou Olga S. , Sourri Patra , Chorianopoulos Nikos , Tassou Chrysoula C.
Published: November 2019

The effect of high-pressure processing (HPP) on Listeria monocytogenes, the indigenous microbiota and the shelf-life of chicken fillets was evaluated. Chicken fillets were inoculated with different inocula (2, 4, and 6 log CFU/g) of a 4-strain cocktail of L. monocytogenes, vacuum-packed, processed or not with HPP (500 MPa/10 min) and stored at 4 °C and 12 °C. Total viable counts (TVC), L. monocytogenes, Pseudomonas spp., Brochothrix thermosphacta, lactic acid bacteria (LAB), Enterobacteriaceae and yeasts/molds were determined along with the pH and sensory analysis. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was used to monitor the succession of indigenous Brochothrix isolates and inoculated Listeria strains. The main spoilage microorganism of HPP-treated samples was B. thermosphacta detected after 3 days of storage. HPP decreased the inoculated Listeria population. For the low and medium inoculum case it was detected throughout the shelf-life at both temperatures in populations near to the detection limit or after enrichment. In the high inoculum case, the pathogen decreased ≥5-log cycles after HPP, while increased subsequently to 1.6 and 4.5 log CFU/g at 4 °C and 12 °C, respectively, by the end of the shelf-life. PFGE showed that Brochothrix isolates exhibited a significant diversity among control samples, whereas this was limited for the HPP-treated samples. The survival and distribution of different Listeria strains depended on the initial inoculum and storage temperature. In conclusion, HPP increased the shelf-life (for 5 and 4 days, at 4 °C and 12 °C, respectively) and enhanced the safety of chicken meat.
Are Community Acquired Respiratory Viral Infections an Underestimated Burden in Hematology Patients?
Authors: Popescu Cristian-Marian , Ursache Aurora Livia , Feketea Gavriela , Bocsan Corina , Jimbu Laura , Mesaros Oana , Edwards Michael , Wang Hongwei , Berceanu Iulia , Neaga Alexandra , Zdrenghea Mihnea
Published: November 2019

Despite a plethora of studies demonstrating significant morbidity and mortality due to community-acquired respiratory viral (CRV) infections in intensively treated hematology patients, and despite the availability of evidence-based guidelines for the diagnosis and management of respiratory viral infections in this setting, there is no uniform inclusion of respiratory viral infection management in the clinical hematology routine. Nevertheless, timely diagnosis and systematic management of CRV infections in intensively treated hematology patients has a demonstrated potential to significantly improve outcome. We have briefly summarized the recently published data on CRV infection epidemiology, as well as guidelines on the diagnosis and management of CRV infections in patients intensively treated for hematological malignancies. We have also assessed available treatment options, as well as mentioned novel agents currently in development.
HP1717 Contributes to Streptococcus suis Virulence by Inducing an Excessive Inflammatory Response and Influencing the Biosynthesis of the Capsule
Authors: Liu Liang , Zhang Qiang , Xu Zhongmin , Huang Jingjing , Zhu Weifeng , Zhang Anding , Sun Xiaomei , Jin Meilin
Published: November 2019

Streptococcus suis 2 (SS2) is an important zoonotic pathogen that substantially harms the swine industry and poses threats to human health. Excessive inflammation is considered to be a hallmark of SS2 infection because it is responsible for most clinical signs of SS2, especially streptococcal toxic shock-like syndrome. However, the current knowledge of SS2-induced excessive inflammation remains limited. In this study, we identified HP1717 as a novel extracellular pro-inflammatory protein in SS2 that can induce robust expression of inflammatory cytokines in RAW264.7 macrophages. Notably, the pro-inflammatory ability of HP1717 was dose-dependent and heat-sensitive, and it required the recognition of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and the phosphorylation of both extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). Further, by constructing a deletion mutant, we demonstrated that HP1717 significantly influenced the biosynthesis of the bacterial capsule, which plays a critical role in the virulence of SS2 by interfering with the ability of host immune cells to phagocytize and kill the pathogen. Indeed, the mutant strain displayed reduced resistance to whole-blood killing compared with the wild strain. Finally, murine experiments indicated that the deletion of hp1717 in SS2 reduced the lethality, pro-inflammatory activity, and bacterial loads in mice. Collectively, our data reveal HP1717 as a novel virulence-related factor of SS2 that can induce an excessive inflammatory response and significantly affect the bacterial capsule, thus expanding our understanding of the pathogenesis of S. suis.
First Attempts of the Use of 195Pt NMR of Phenylbenzothiazole Complexes as Spectroscopic Technique for the Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Pereira Bruna T. L. , Gonçalves Mateus A. , Mancini Daiana T. , Kuca Kamil , Ramalho Teodorico C.
Published: November 2019

Platinum complexes have been studied for cancer treatment for several decades. Furthermore, another important platinum characteristic is related to its chemical shifts, in which some studies have shown that the 195Pt chemical shifts are very sensitive to the environment, coordination sphere, and oxidation state. Based on this relevant feature, Pt complexes can be proposed as potential probes for NMR spectroscopy, as the chemical shifts values will be different in different tissues (healthy and damaged) Therefore, in this paper, the main goal was to investigate the behavior of Pt chemical shifts in the different environments. Calculations were carried out in vacuum, implicit solvent, and inside the active site of P13K enzyme, which is related with breast cancer, using the density functional theory (DFT) method. Moreover, the investigation of platinum complexes with a selective moiety can contribute to early cancer diagnosis. Accordingly, the Pt complexes selected for this study presented a selective moiety, the 2-(4′aminophenyl)benzothiazole derivative. More specifically, two Pt complexes were used herein: One containing chlorine ligands and one containing water in place of chlorine. Some studies have shown that platinum complexes coordinated to chlorine atoms may suffer hydrolyses inside the cell due to the low chloride ion concentration. Thus, the same calculations were performed for both complexes. The results showed that both complexes presented different chemical shift values in the different proposed environments. Therefore, this paper shows that platinum complexes can be a potential probe in biological systems, and they should be studied not only for cancer treatment, but also for diagnosis.
Preparation and Evaluation of Carbamazepine Solid Lipid Nanoparticle for Alleviating Seizure Activity in Pentylenetetrazole-Kindled Mice
Authors: Qushawy Mona , Prabahar Kousalya , Abd-Alhaseeb Mohammed , Swidan Shady , Nasr Ali
Published: November 2019

Objectives: The study aimed to prepare carbamazepine in solid lipid nanoparticle form (CBZ-SLN) in order to enhance its anticonvulsant effect. Method: Eight formulations of CBZ-SLNs were prepared by homogenization and ultra-sonication techniques. Results: The prepared CBZ-SLN showed a high entrapment efficiency% (39.66 ± 2.42%–71.91 ± 1.21%), a small particle size (45.11 ± 6.72–760.7 ± 5.25 nm), and a negative zeta potential (from −21.5 ± 1.02 to −38.4 ± 1.32 mv). The in vitro release study showed the slow release of CBZ from SLNs compared to CBZ aqueous dispersion (p < 0.05). The infrared spectroscopy and the thermal analysis revealed the compatibility of the drug with other ingredients and the presence of drug in the more soluble amorphous estate, respectively. The in vivo study on mice revealed that the CBZ-SLN had a higher anticonvulsant efficacy than CBZ aqueous dispersion after a lethal and chronic dose of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) (p < 0.05). The histopathological examination of the hippocampus revealed a decrease in the percentage of degeneration in mice treated with the CBZ-SLN compared to the PTZ and CBZ groups. Conclusion: CBZ can be formulated as SLN with higher anticonvulsant activity than free CBZ aqueous dispersion.
Automated Stopped-Flow Fluorimetric Sensor for Biologically Active Adamantane Derivatives Based on Zone Fluidics
Authors: Tzanavaras Paraskevas D. , Papadimitriou Sofia , Zacharis Constantinos K.
Published: November 2019

A zone-fluidics (ZF) based automated fluorimetric sensor for the determination of pharmaceutically active adamantine derivatives, i.e., amantadine (AMA), memantine (MEM) and rimantadine (RIM) is reported. Discrete zones of the analytes and reagents (o-phthalaldehyde and N-acetylcysteine) mix and react under stopped-flow conditions to yield fluorescent iso-indole derivatives (λex/ λem = 340/455 nm). The proposed ZF sensor was developed and validated to prove suitable for quality control tests (assay and content uniformity) of commercially available formulations purchased from the Greek market (EU licensed) and from non-EU web-pharmacies at a sampling rate of 16 h−1. Interestingly, a formulation obtained through the internet and produced in a third—non-EU—country (AMA capsules, 100 mg per cap), was found to be out of specifications (mean assay of 85.3%); a validated HPLC method was also applied for confirmatory purposes.
The Polyphenols as Potential Agents in Prevention and Therapy of Prostate Diseases
Authors: Pejčić Tomislav , Tosti Tomislav , Džamić Zoran , Gašić Uroš , Vuksanović Aleksandar , Dolićanin Zana , Tešić Živoslav
Published: November 2019

In recent years, the progress of science and medicine greatly has influenced human life span and health. However, lifestyle habits, like physical activity, smoking cessation, moderate alcohol consumption, diet, and maintaining a normal body weight represent measures that greatly reduce the risk of various diseases. The type of diet is very important for disease development. Numerous epidemiological clinical data confirm that longevity is linked to predominantly plant-based diets and it is related to a long life; whereas the western diet, rich in red meat and fats, increases the risk of oxidative stress and thus the risk of developing various diseases and pre-aging. This review is focused on the bioavailability of polyphenols and the use of polyphenols for the prevention of prostate diseases. Special focus in this paper is placed on the isoflavonoids and flavan-3-ols, subgroups of polyphenols, and their protective effects against the development of prostate diseases.
Isorhamnetin Has Potential for the Treatment of Escherichia coli-Induced Sepsis
Authors: Chauhan Anil Kumar , Kim Jieun , Lee Yeongjoon , Balasubramanian Pavithra K. , Kim Yangmee
Published: November 2019

Isorhamnetin is a flavonoid that is abundant in the fruit of Hippophae rhamnoides L. It is widely studied for its ability to modulate inflammatory responses. In this study, we evaluated the potential of isorhamnetin to prevent gram-negative sepsis. We investigated its efficacy using an Escherichia coli-induced sepsis model. Our study reveals that isorhamnetin treatment significantly enhances survival and reduces proinflammatory cytokine levels in the serum and lung tissue of E. coli-infected mice. Further, isorhamnetin treatment also significantly reduces the levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine amino transferase and blood urea nitrogen, suggesting that it can improve liver and kidney function in infected mice. Docking studies reveal that isorhamnetin binds deep in the hydrophobic binding pocket of MD-2 via extensive hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding with Tyr102, preventing TLR4/MD-2 dimerization. Notably, binding and secreted alkaline phosphatase reporter gene assays show that isorhamnetin can interact directly with the TLR4/MD-2 complex, thus inhibiting the TLR4 cascade, which eventually causes systemic inflammation, resulting in death due to cytokine storms. We therefore presume that isorhamnetin could be a suitable therapeutic candidate to treat bacterial sepsis.
One-Pot Cu/TiO2 Nanoparticles Synthesis for Trans-Ferulic Acid Conversion into Vanillin
Authors: Gómez-López Paulette , Lázaro Noelia , Alvarado-Beltrán Clemente G. , Pineda Antonio , Balu Alina M. , Luque Rafael
Published: November 2019

In this study, the co-synthesis of TiO2 and Cu metallic nanoparticles obtained via one-pot cost-efficient hydrothermal process has been addressed. Different nanocatalysts with Cu contents were characterized by X-ray diffraction, nitrogen porosimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The TiO2 and Cu metallic nanoparticles were synthesized with copper loading up to one (Cu/Ti atomic ratio). Synthesized catalysts exhibited pore sizes in the mesoporous range and high surface areas above 150 m2/g. The particle size for TiO2 presented a homogeneous distribution of approximately 8 nm, moreover, Cu nanoparticles varied from 12 to >100 nm depending on the metal loading. The nanostructured materials were successfully tested in the conversion of trans-ferulic acid into vanillin under sustainable conditions, achieving the best performance for 0.3 Cu/Ti atomic ratio (70% vanillin yield).
Mechanism of Action of Non-Synonymous Single Nucleotide Variations Associated with α-Carbonic Anhydrase II Deficiency
Authors: Sanyanga Taremekedzwa Allan , Nizami Bilal , Tastan Bishop Özlem
Published: November 2019

Human carbonic anhydrase II (CA-II) is a Zinc (Zn 2 + ) metalloenzyme responsible for maintenance of acid-base balance within the body through the reversible hydration of CO 2 to produce protons (H + ) and bicarbonate (BCT). Due to its importance, alterations to the amino acid sequence of the protein as a result of single nucleotide variations (nsSNVs) have detrimental effects on homeostasis. Six pathogenic CA-II nsSNVs, K18E, K18Q, H107Y, P236H, P236R and N252D were identified, and variant protein models calculated using homology modeling. The effect of each nsSNV was analyzed using motif analysis, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, principal component (PCA) and dynamic residue network (DRN) analysis. Motif analysis identified 11 functionally important motifs in CA-II. RMSD data indicated subtle SNV effects, while PCA analysis revealed that the presence of BCT results in greater conformational sampling and free energy in proteins. DRN analysis showed variant allosteric effects, and the average betweenness centrality (BC) calculations identified Glu117 as the most important residue for communication in CA-II. The presence of BCT was associated with a reduction to Glu117 usage in all variants, suggesting implications for Zn 2 + dissociation from the CA-II active site. In addition, reductions to Glu117 usage are associated with increases in the usage of the primary and secondary Zn 2 + ligands; His94, His96, His119 and Asn243 highlighting potential compensatory mechanisms to maintain Zn 2 + within the active site. Compared to traditional MD simulation investigation, DRN analysis provided greater insights into SNV mechanism of action, indicating its importance for the study of missense mutation effects in proteins and, in broader terms, precision medicine related research.
Fabrication of Interconnected Plasmonic Spherical Silver Nanoparticles with Enhanced Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) Peaks Using Quince Leaf Extract Solution
Authors: B. Aziz Shujahadeen , Hussein Govar , Brza M. A. , J. Mohammed Sewara , T. Abdulwahid R. , Raza Saeed Salah , Hassanzadeh Abdollah
Published: November 2019

Interconnected spherical metallic silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were synthesized in the current study using a green chemistry method. The reduction of silver ions to Ag NPs was carried out with low-cost and eco-friendly quince leaves. For the first time, it was confirmed that the extract solution of quince leaves could be used to perform green production of Ag NPs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was conducted to identify the potential biomolecules that were involved in the Ag NPs. The results depicted that the biosynthesis of Ag NPs through the extract solution of quince leaf was a low-cost, clean, and safe method, which did not make use of any contaminated element and hence, had no undesirable effects. The majority of the peaks in the FTIR spectrum of quince leaf extracts also emerged in the FTIR spectrum of Ag NPs but they were found to be of less severe intensity. The silver ion reduction was elaborated in detail on the basis of the FTIR outcomes. In addition, through X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, the Ag NPs were also confirmed to be crystalline in type, owing to the appearance of distinct peaks related to the Ag NPs. The creation of Ag NPs was furthermore confirmed by using absorption spectrum, in which a localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) peak at 480 nm was observed. The LSPR peak achieved in the present work was found to be of great interest compared to those reported in literature. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images were used to provide the morphology and grain size of Ag NPs. It was shown from the FESEM images that the Ag NPs had interconnected spherical morphology.
Timing of Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Effects on Obesity and Metabolic Risk
Authors: Lopez-Minguez Jesus , Gómez-Abellán Purificación , Garaulet Marta
Published: November 2019

(1) Background: Eating is fundamental to survival. Animals choose when to eat depending on food availability. The timing of eating can synchronize different organs and tissues that are related to food digestion, absorption, or metabolism, such as the stomach, gut, liver, pancreas, or adipose tissue. Studies performed in experimental animal models suggest that food intake is a major external synchronizer of peripheral clocks. Therefore, the timing of eating may be decisive in fat accumulation and mobilization and affect the effectiveness of weight loss treatments. (2) Results: We will review multiple studies about the timing of the three main meals of the day, breakfast, lunch and dinner, and its potential impact on metabolism, glucose tolerance, and obesity-related factors. We will also delve into several mechanisms that may be implicated in the obesogenic effect of eating late. Conclusion: Unusual eating time can produce a disruption in the circadian system that might lead to unhealthy consequences.
SIRT1-Mediated Protective Effect of Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem against High-Glucose-Induced Senescence in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells
Authors: Kim Gi Dae
Published: November 2019

Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem (AS) is widely been for treating many diseases, enhancing energy, and boosting immunity; however, its protective effects against high-glucose (HG)-triggered endothelial dysfunction and the potential underlying mechanisms have not been investigated. In this study, we determined the effect of AS on senescence in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and elucidated the mechanisms underlying its anti-aging effects. The senescence model of endothelial cells (ECs) was established by culturing HUVECs in media containing HG (30 mM). We found that the proportion of senescent (senescence-associated β-galactosidase+) cells in the HG group was significantly higher than that in the control group; however, this increase was suppressed by AS treatment. Moreover, cell cycle analysis revealed that AS (20 μg/mL) significantly recovered HG-induced cell cycle arrest in ECs, and Western blot revealed that AS prevented HG-induced decreases in silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) level and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation. These results show that AS delayed HG-induced senescence in ECs by modulation of the SIRT1/5′ AMP-activated protein kinase and AKT/eNOS pathways.
Compliance and Adherence to Enteral Nutrition Treatment in Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gea Cabrera Alicia , Sanz-Lorente María , Sanz-Valero Javier , López-Pintor Elsa
Published: November 2019

Objective: To review the scientific literature that has verified and/or assessed compliance and adherence to enteral nutrition (EN) in adult patients. Method: This study involved a critical analysis of articles retrieved from MEDLINE (PubMed), The Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science using the terms “Treatment Adherence and Compliance” and “Enteral Nutrition”, applying the filters “Comparative Study” or “Clinical Trial”, “Humans” and “Adults”. Date of the search: 25 October 2018. Results: A total of 512 references were retrieved, of which 23 documents were selected after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The techniques measuring adherence to EN were determined by dietary intake, self-reporting, counts of leftover containers or presence of complications; however, in no case were validated questionnaires used. The time and periodicity of the assessment presented very heterogeneous results, with measurement predominantly being done at the beginning and at the end of the study. The best adherence rates were obtained in hospitalized patients (approximately 80%). Conclusions: Frequent and regular monitoring of the adherence of patients under prolonged treatment with EN is necessary, and the use of measurement techniques that allow obtaining information on the causes of non-adherence facilitates early interventions to optimize treatment outcomes. Patient and/or caregiver education in the management of EN and the intervention of the community pharmacy in monitoring patients can be key to improving the adherence to EN.
Microbiome, Autoimmune Diseases and HIV Infection: Friends or Foes?
Authors: Pellicano Chiara , Leodori Giorgia , Innocenti Giuseppe Pietro , Gigante Antonietta , Rosato Edoardo
Published: November 2019

Several studies highlighted the importance of the interaction between microbiota and the immune system in the development and maintenance of the homeostasis of the human organism. Dysbiosis is associated with proinflammatory and pathological state-like metabolic diseases, autoimmune diseases and HIV infection. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the possible role of dysbiosis in triggering and/or exacerbating symptoms of autoimmune diseases and HIV infection. There are no data about the influence of the microbiome on the development of autoimmune diseases during HIV infection. We can hypothesize that untreated patients may be more susceptible to the development of autoimmune diseases, due to the presence of dysbiosis. Eubiosis, re-established by probiotic administration, can be used to reduce triggers for autoimmune diseases in untreated HIV patients, although clinical studies are needed to evaluate the role of the microbiome in autoimmune diseases in HIV patients.
Obesity Affects β2 Adrenergic Regulation of the Inflammatory Profile and Phenotype of Circulating Monocytes from Exercised Animals
Authors: Gálvez Isabel , Martín-Cordero Leticia , Hinchado María Dolores , Álvarez-Barrientos Alberto , Ortega Eduardo
Published: November 2019

Anomalous immune/inflammatory responses in obesity take place along with alterations in the neuroendocrine responses and dysregulation in the immune/stress feedback mechanisms. Exercise is a potential anti-inflammatory strategy in this context, but the influence of exercise on the β2 adrenergic regulation of the monocyte-mediated inflammatory response in obesity remains completely unknown. The first objective of this study was to analyze the effect of exercise on the inflammatory profile and phenotype of monocytes from obese and lean animals, and the second aim was to determine whether obesity could affect monocytes’ inflammatory response to β2 adrenergic activation in exercised animals. C57BL/6J mice were allocated to different lean or obese groups: sedentary, with acute exercise, or with regular exercise. The inflammatory profile and phenotype of their circulating monocytes were evaluated by flow cytometry in the presence or absence of the selective β2 adrenergic receptor agonist terbutaline. Exercise caused an anti-inflammatory effect in obese individuals and a pro-inflammatory effect in lean individuals. β2 adrenergic receptor stimulation exerted a global pro-inflammatory effect in monocytes from exercised obese animals and an anti-inflammatory effect in monocytes from exercised lean animals. Thus, β2 adrenergic regulation of inflammation in monocytes from exercised animals seems to depend on the inflammatory basal set-point.
The Effects of Iodine Supplementation in Pregnancy on Iodine Status, Thyroglobulin Levels and Thyroid Function Parameters: Results from a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial in a Mild-to-Moderate Iodine Deficiency Area
Authors: Censi Simona , Watutantrige-Fernando Sara , Groccia Giulia , Manso Jacopo , Plebani Mario , Faggian Diego , Mion Monica Maria , Venturini Roberta , Andrisani Alessandra , Casaro Anna , Vita Pietro , Avogadro Alessandra , Camilot Marta , Scaroni Carla , Bertazza Loris , Barollo Susi , Mian Caterina
Published: November 2019

Background: Iodine supplementation during pregnancy in areas with mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency is still debated. Methods: A single-center, randomized, single-blind and placebo-controlled (3:2) trial was conducted. We enrolled 90 women before 12 weeks of gestation. From enrollment up until 8 weeks after delivery, 52 women were given an iodine supplement (225 ug/day, potassium iodide tablets) and 38 were given placebo. At recruitment (T0), in the second (T1) and third trimesters (T2), and 8 weeks after delivery (T3), we measured participants’ urinary iodine-to-creatinine ratio (UI/Creat), thyroid function parameters (thyroglobulin (Tg), TSH, FT3, and FT4), and thyroid volume (TV). The newborns’ urinary iodine concentrations were evaluated in 16 cases. Results: Median UI/Creat at recruitment was 53.3 ug/g. UI/Creat was significantly higher in supplemented women at T1 and T2. Tg levels were lower at T1 and T2 in women with UI/Creat ≥ 150 ug/g, and in the Iodine group at T2 (p = 0.02). There was a negative correlation between Tg and UI/Creat throughout the study (p = 0.03, r = −0.1268). A lower TSH level was found in the Iodine group at T3 (p = 0.001). TV increased by +Δ7.43% in the Iodine group, and by +Δ11.17% in the Placebo group. No differences were found between the newborns’ TSH levels on screening the two groups. Conclusion: Tg proved a good parameter for measuring iodine intake in our placebo-controlled series. Iodine supplementation did not prove harmful to pregnancy in areas of mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency, with no appreciable harmful effect on thyroid function.
Evidence of Human Milk Oligosaccharides in Cord Blood and Maternal-to-Fetal Transport across the Placenta
Authors: Hirschmugl Birgit , Brandl Waltraud , Csapo Bence , van Poppel Mireille , Köfeler Harald , Desoye Gernot , Wadsack Christian , Jantscher-Krenn Evelyn
Published: November 2019

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are present in maternal serum in early gestation, raising the question of whether HMOs can cross the placental barrier and reach fetal circulation. Here, we aimed to detect HMOs in cord blood, and assess HMO composition and concentration in relation to maternal HMOs. In an ex-vivo placental perfusion model, we asked whether HMOs can pass over the placenta. Using HPLC, we measured HMOs in maternal serum and matching venous cord blood samples collected at delivery from normal pregnancies (n = 22). To investigate maternal-to-fetal transport, we perfused isolated placental cotyledons from term pregnancies (n = 3) with 2’-fucosyllactose (2′FL) in a double closed setting. We found up to 18 oligosaccharides typically present in maternal serum in all cord serum samples investigated. Median total cord blood HMO concentration did not differ from the concentration in maternal serum. HMO composition resembled the composition in maternal serum, with the strongest correlations for 2′FL and LDFT. After 180 min perfusion, we found 22% of maternally offered 2′FL in the fetal circuit without reaching equilibrium. Our results provide direct evidence of HMOs in cord blood, and suggest that the placenta transfers HMOs from the maternal to fetal circuit. Future studies will investigate potential differences in the transfer of specific HMOs, or in pregnancy disorders.
Metabolic Effects of the Sweet Protein MNEI as a Sweetener in Drinking Water. A Pilot Study of a High Fat Dietary Regimen in a Rodent Model
Authors: Cancelliere Rosa , Leone Serena , Gatto Cristina , Mazzoli Arianna , Ercole Carmine , Iossa Susanna , Liverini Giovanna , Picone Delia , Crescenzo Raffaella
Published: November 2019

Sweeteners have become integrating components of the typical western diet, in response to the spreading of sugar-related pathologies (diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome) that have stemmed from the adoption of unbalanced dietary habits. Sweet proteins are a relatively unstudied class of sweet compounds that could serve as innovative sweeteners, but their introduction on the food market has been delayed by some factors, among which is the lack of thorough metabolic and toxicological studies. We have tried to shed light on the potential of a sweet protein, MNEI, as a fructose substitute in beverages in a typical western diet, by studying the metabolic consequences of its consumption on a Wistar rat model of high fat diet-induced obesity. In particular, we investigated the lipid profile, insulin sensitivity and other indicators of metabolic syndrome. We also evaluated systemic inflammation and potential colon damage. MNEI consumption rescued the metabolic derangement elicited by the intake of fructose, namely insulin resistance, altered plasma lipid profile, colon inflammation and translocation of lipopolysaccharides from the gut lumen into the circulatory system. We concluded that MNEI could represent a valid alternative to fructose, particularly when concomitant metabolic disorders such as diabetes and/or glucose intolerance are present.
Prevalence of Carnitine Deficiency and Decreased Carnitine Levels in Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Shimizu Satoshi , Takashima Hiroyuki , Tei Ritsukou , Furukawa Tetsuya , Okamura Makiyo , Kitai Maki , Nagura Chinami , Maruyama Takashi , Higuchi Terumi , Abe Masanori
Published: November 2019

Background: Carnitine deficiency is common in patients on dialysis. Serum free carnitine concentration is significantly lower in patients on hemodialysis (HD) than in healthy individuals. However, there are few reports on serum free carnitine concentration in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD). Methods: We examined serum concentrations of total, free, and acylcarnitine and the acylcarnitine/free carnitine ratio in 34 PD and 34 age-, sex-, and dialysis duration-matched HD patients. We investigated the prevalence of carnitine deficiency and clinical factors associated with carnitine deficiency in the PD group. Results: Prevalence of carnitine deficiency was 8.8% in the PD group and 17.7% in the HD group (p = 0.283). High risk of carnitine deficiency was found in 73.5% of the PD group and 76.4% of the HD group (p = 0.604). Carnitine insufficiency was found in 82.3% of the PD group and 88.2% of HD group (p = 0.733). Multivariate analysis revealed that duration of dialysis and age were independent predictors of serum free carnitine level in the PD group. Conclusions: The prevalence of carnitine deficiency, high risk of carnitine deficiency, and carnitine insufficiency in PD patients was 8.8%, 73.5%, and 82.3%, respectively. These rates were comparable to those in patients on HD.
Discovery of Nobiletin from Citrus Peel as a Potent Inhibitor of β-Amyloid Peptide Toxicity
Authors: Youn Kumju , Lee Seonah , Jun Mira
Published: November 2019

Increasing evidence has demonstrated that amyloid-β peptide (Aβ), the hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), evokes oxidative and inflammatory cascades, which ultimately lead to the death of neurons. The purpose of the present study is to demonstrate the effect of nobiletin, a representative compound of citrus peel, in preventive and therapeutic approaches against neuronal damage by exposure to Aβ25–35. Nobiletin significantly ameliorated Aβ25–35-mediated cell death by restoring abnormal changes in intracellular oxidative stress, cell cycle, nuclear morphology, and activity of apoptotic caspase. Regarding anti-inflammatory responses, nobiletin significantly suppressed interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, nitric oxide (NO), and prostaglandin E2 production in response to Aβ stimulation. Moreover, nobiletin inhibited Aβ-stimulated inducible NO synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 expression, which was attributed to the blockade of nuclear factor-κB p65 and phosphorylation of its inhibitor, IκB-α. Interestingly, nobiletin decreased expression of c-Jun N-terminal kinase and p38 without affecting extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 activation. Taken together, the novel data implicate nobiletin as a potential candidate for the prevention of AD through the inhibition of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation.
Isoflavone Supplements for Menopausal Women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chen Li-Ru , Ko Nai-Yu , Chen Kuo-Hu
Published: November 2019

Isoflavones have gained popularity as an alternative treatment for menopausal symptoms for people who cannot or are unwilling to take hormone replacement therapy. However, there is still no consensus on the effects of isoflavones despite over two decades of vigorous research. This systematic review aims to summarize the current literature on isoflavone supplements, focusing on the active ingredients daidzein, genistein, and S-equol, and provide a framework to guide future research. We performed a literature search in Ovid Medline using the search terms “isoflavone” and “menopause”, which yielded 95 abstracts and 68 full-text articles. We found that isoflavones reduce hot flashes even accounting for placebo effect, attenuate lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) loss, show beneficial effects on systolic blood pressure during early menopause, and improve glycemic control in vitro. There are currently no conclusive benefits of isoflavones on urogenital symptoms and cognition. Due to the lack of standardized research protocols including isoflavone component and dosage, outcomes, and trial duration, it is difficult to reach a conclusion at this point in time. Despite these limitations, the evidence thus far favors the use of isoflavones due to their safety profile and benefit to overall health.
Plant-Derived Extracts Feed-Addition and Packaging Type Influence Consumer Sensory Perception of Pork
Authors: Panea Begoña , Ripoll Guillermo
Published: November 2019

This paper investigates whether the combination of the addition of extracts derived from plants (plants derived extracts, PDE) to pork feedstuff and the meat conservation conditions (packaging and time exposure) affect consumers’ perception of pork quality, studied by means of visual appraisal, purchase intention and a home test. The three PDE groups were control, garlic extract and blended oil composed by carvacrol, timol, cynamic aldehide and eugenol extracts. Meat was packed in film, vacuum or modified atmosphere (MAP) packaging. A visual test was designed comprising a four-day storage step followed by a four-day exposure step in a refrigerated island display case. All studied effects influenced visual appraisal scores, being time exposure and packaging effects more noticeable than PDE or pig-sex effects. Meat from MAP scored higher than the rest. Scores decreased as exposure time increased, but this evolution was less perceptible in vacuum packaging and was faster for meat from the garlic group. Only gender affected the visual appraisal scores, with women scoring higher than men. Neither PDE addition nor pig sex affected to purchase intention whereas both exposure time and packaging type did. A maximum of 2 days of exposure would be recommended. In the home-test, meat from male pigs obtained higher scores than meat from female pigs, and none of the consumer-related effects influenced the given scores.
Hepatoprotective Mechanisms of Taxifolin on Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Yang Chao-Lin , Lin Yu-Shih , Liu Keng-Fan , Peng Wen-Huang , Hsu Chih-Ming
Published: November 2019

Objective: To investigate the hepatoprotective mechanisms of taxifolin in mice with acute liver injury induced by CCl4. Methods: ICR (Institute of Cancer research) mice were orally pretreated using taxifolin for 7 consecutive days and were then given single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of 0.2% CCl4 (10 mL/kg body weight, i.p.). Liver injury was then determined using assays of serum alanine aminotransferase (sALT) and serum aspartate aminotransferase (sAST). Further, to investigate the hepatoprotective mechanisms of taxifolin, we determined malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GRd) activities. Results: CCl4-induced liver injury led to significant increases in sALT and sAST activities, and these increases were limited by taxifolin and silymarin (Sily) pretreatments. Histological analyses also indicated that taxifolin and Sily decreased the range of liver lesions in CCl4-treated mice and vacuole formation, neutrophil infiltration, and necrosis were visibly reduced. In addition, SOD, GPx, and GRd activities were increased and MDA levels were decreased after taxifolin and Sily treatments. Conclusion: The hepatoprotective mechanisms of taxifolin and Sily are related to decreases in MDA levels presumably due to increased antioxidant enzyme activities. These outcomes suggest that taxifolin mitigates acute liver injury resulted from CCl4 in mice, demonstrating the hepatoprotective effects of taxifolin.