bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of Mn3+ Spin State by Guest Molecule Inclusion
Authors: Kühne Irina A. , Esien Kane , Gavin Laurence C. , Müller-Bunz Helge , Felton Solveig , Morgan Grace G.
Published: November 2020

Spin state preferences for a cationic Mn3+ chelate complex in four different crystal lattices are investigated by crystallography and SQUID magnetometry. The [MnL1]+ complex cation was prepared by complexation of Mn3+ to the Schiff base chelate formed from condensation of 4-methoxysalicylaldehyde and 1,2-bis(3-aminopropylamino)ethane. The cation was crystallized separately with three polyatomic counterions and in one case was found to cocrystallize with a percentage of unreacted 4-methoxysalicylaldehyde starting material. The spin state preferences of the four resultant complexes [MnL1]CF3SO3·xH2O, (1), [MnL1]PF6·xH2O, (2), [MnL1]PF6·xsal·xH2O, (2b), and [MnL1]BPh4, (3), were dependent on their ability to form strong intermolecular interactions. Complexes (1) and (2), which formed hydrogen bonds between [MnL1]+, lattice water and in one case also with counterion, showed an incomplete thermal spin crossover over the temperature range 5–300 K. In contrast, complex (3) with the BPh4−, counterion and no lattice water, was locked into the high spin state over the same temperature range, as was complex (2b), where inclusion of the 4-methoxysalicylaldehyde guest blocked the H-bonding interaction.
Grapevine as a Rich Source of Polyphenolic Compounds
Authors: Šikuten Iva , Štambuk Petra , Andabaka Željko , Tomaz Ivana , Marković Zvjezdana , Stupić Domagoj , Maletić Edi , Kontić Jasminka Karoglan , Preiner Darko
Published: November 2020

Grapes are rich in primary and secondary metabolites. Among the secondary metabolites, polyphenolic compounds are the most abundant in grape berries. Besides their important impacts on grape and wine quality, this class of compounds has beneficial effects on human health. Due to their antioxidant activity, polyphenols and phenolic acids can act as anti-inflammatory and anticancerogenic agents, and can modulate the immune system. In grape berries, polyphenols and phenolic acids can be located in the pericarp and seeds, but distribution differs considerably among these tissues. Although some classes of polyphenols and phenolic acids are under strict genetic control, the final content is highly influenced by environmental factors, such as climate, soil, vineyard, and management. This review aims to present the main classes of polyphenolic compounds and phenolic acids in different berry tissues and grape varieties and special emphasis on their beneficial effect on human health.
Effects of Citicoline, Homotaurine, and Vitamin E on Contrast Sensitivity and Visual-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Marino Pier , Rossi Gemma , Campagna Giuseppe , Capobianco Decio , Costagliola Ciro ,   on behalf of QUALICOS Study Group
Published: November 2020

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of supplementation with a fixed combination of citicoline 500 mg, homotaurine 50 mg, and vitamin E 12 mg (CIT/HOMO/VITE) on contrast sensitivity and visual-related quality of life in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in mild stage. This was a multicenter, observational, cross-over, short-term, pilot study on POAG patients with stable controlled intraocular pressure (IOP). Patients were randomly assigned to Group 1 (current topical therapy for 4 months and then current topical therapy plus CIT/HOMO/VITE for 4 months) or Group 2 (CIT/HOMO/VITE in addition to current topical therapy for 4 months and then topical therapy alone for 4 months). Best-corrected visual acuity, IOP, visual field, and the Spaeth/Richman contrast sensitivity (SPARCS) test score were recorded at baseline and after 4 and 8 months. The Glaucoma Quality of Life-15 (GQL-15) questionnaire was administered at each check time. Forty-four patients were assigned to Group 1 and 65 to Group 2. Over the follow-up period, there were no significant changes in IOP or visual field findings, whereas SPARCS and GQL-15 findings significantly varied from baseline, both being improved in subjects treated with CIT/HOMO/VITE fixed combination. These results demonstrate that a daily intake of a fixed combination of citicoline, homotaurine, and vitamin E in addition to the topical medical treatment significantly increased the total score of the contrast sensitivity test and the quality of life in patients with POAG.
Repositioning of Ligands That Target the Spike Glycoprotein as Potential Drugs for SARS-CoV-2 in an In Silico Study
Authors: Ramírez-Salinas Gema Lizbeth , Martínez-Archundia Marlet , Correa-Basurto José , García-Machorro Jazmín
Published: November 2020

The worldwide health emergency of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and the absence of a specific treatment for this new coronavirus have led to the use of computational strategies (drug repositioning) to search for treatments. The aim of this work is to identify FDA (Food and Drug Administration)-approved drugs with the potential for binding to the spike structural glycoprotein at the hinge site, receptor binding motif (RBM), and fusion peptide (FP) using molecular docking simulations. Drugs that bind to amino acids are crucial for conformational changes, receptor recognition, and fusion of the viral membrane with the cell membrane. The results revealed some drugs that bind to hinge site amino acids (varenicline, or steroids such as betamethasone while other drugs bind to crucial amino acids in the RBM (naldemedine, atovaquone, cefotetan) or FP (azilsartan, maraviroc, and difluprednate); saquinavir binds both the RBM and the FP. Therefore, these drugs could inhibit spike glycoprotein and prevent viral entry as possible anti-COVID-19 drugs. Several drugs are in clinical studies; by focusing on other pharmacological agents (candesartan, atovaquone, losartan, maviroc and ritonavir) in this work we propose an additional target: the spike glycoprotein. These results can impact the proposed use of treatments that inhibit the first steps of the virus replication cycle.
Advances in the Chemical and Biological Characterization of Amaryllidaceae Alkaloids and Natural Analogues Isolated in the Last Decade
Authors: Masi Marco , Di Lecce Roberta , Cimmino Alessio , Evidente Antonio
Published: November 2020

Amaryllidaceae are bulbous wild and cultivated plants well known for their beautiful flowers and pharmaceutical applications, essentially due to the alkaloids and flavonoids content. Hundreds of alkaloids have been isolated until now and several scientific publications reported their sources, chemical structures, and biological activities. During the last decade, some unstudied Amaryllidaceae plants were the object of in-depth investigations to isolate and chemically and biologically characterize new and already known alkaloids as well as some analogues. This review describes the isolation and chemical and biological characterization of the Amaryllidaceae alkaloids, and their analogues obtained in the last decade, focusing the discussion on the new ones.
Structural Characterization of Biomaterials by Means of Small Angle X-rays and Neutron Scattering (SAXS and SANS), and Light Scattering Experiments
Authors: Lombardo Domenico , Calandra Pietro , Kiselev Mikhail A.
Published: November 2020

Scattering techniques represent non-invasive experimental approaches and powerful tools for the investigation of structure and conformation of biomaterial systems in a wide range of distances, ranging from the nanometric to micrometric scale. More specifically, small-angle X-rays and neutron scattering and light scattering techniques represent well-established experimental techniques for the investigation of the structural properties of biomaterials and, through the use of suitable models, they allow to study and mimic various biological systems under physiologically relevant conditions. They provide the ensemble averaged (and then statistically relevant) information under in situ and operando conditions, and represent useful tools complementary to the various traditional imaging techniques that, on the contrary, reveal more local structural information. Together with the classical structure characterization approaches, we introduce the basic concepts that make it possible to examine inter-particles interactions, and to study the growth processes and conformational changes in nanostructures, which have become increasingly relevant for an accurate understanding and prediction of various mechanisms in the fields of biotechnology and nanotechnology. The upgrade of the various scattering techniques, such as the contrast variation or time resolved experiments, offers unique opportunities to study the nano- and mesoscopic structure and their evolution with time in a way not accessible by other techniques. For this reason, highly performant instruments are installed at most of the facility research centers worldwide. These new insights allow to largely ameliorate the control of (chemico-physical and biologic) processes of complex (bio-)materials at the molecular length scales, and open a full potential for the development and engineering of a variety of nano-scale biomaterials for advanced applications.
Content of Phenolic Compounds and Organic Acids in the Flowers of Selected Tulipa gesneriana Cultivars
Authors: Krzymińska Agnieszka , Gąsecka Monika , Magdziak Zuzanna
Published: November 2020

The study focused on the determination of phenolic acids, flavonoids and organic acids in five tulip cultivars ‘Barcelona’, ‘Columbus’, ‘Strong Gold’, ‘Super Parrot’ and ‘Tropicana’. The cultivars grown in field and in a greenhouse were exposed after cutting to different times of storage (0, 3 and 6 days). The phenolic profile contained 4-hydroxybenzoic, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic, gallic, vanillic, syringic, salicylic, protocatechuic, trans-cinnamic, p-coumaric, caffeic, ferulic, chlorogenic and sinapic acids, as well as quercetin, rutin, luteonin, catechin and vitexin. The mean phenolic acid content was in the following order: ‘Columbus’ and ‘Tropicana’ > ’Barcelona’ > ’Strong Gold’ > ’Super Parrot’, while the levels of flavonoids were as follows: ‘Strong Gold’ > ’Barcelona’ > ’Tropicana’ > ’Columbus’ > ’Super Parrot’. The highest content of phenolic acids was confirmed for Columbus and Tropicana, while the lowest was for Super Parrot. However total phenolic content was very similar, observed between the place of cultivation, time of storage and cultivars. Malonic, succinic, acetic and citric acids were the major organic acid components in tulip petals. More organic acids (except malonic) were accumulated in tulip petals from fields than those from the greenhouse, while changes during storage were strictly correlated with cultivars.
Current Nanoparticle-Based Technologies for Osteoarthritis Therapy
Authors: Jin Guang-Zhen
Published: November 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common chronic joint disease that is characterized by joint pain and stiffness, and limitation of motion and the major cause of disability, which reduces life quality of patients and brings a large economic burden to the family and society. Current clinical treatment is mostly limited to symptomatic treatment aimed at pain alleviation and functional improvement, rather than suppressing the progression of OA. Nanotechnology is a promising strategy for the treatment of OA. In this review, we summarize the current experimental progress that focuses on technologies such as liposomes, micelles, dendrimers, polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs), exosomes, and inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) for their potential treatment of OA.
Parametric Optimization of an Air–Liquid Interface System for Flow-Through Inhalation Exposure to Nanoparticles: Assessing Dosimetry and Intracellular Uptake of CeO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Leibrock Lars , Jungnickel Harald , Tentschert Jutta , Katz Aaron , Toman Blaza , Petersen Elijah , Bierkandt Frank , Singh Ajay , Laux Peter , Luch Andreas
Published: November 2020

Air–liquid interface (ALI) systems have been widely used in recent years to investigate the inhalation toxicity of many gaseous compounds, chemicals, and nanomaterials and represent an emerging and promising in vitro method to supplement in vivo studies. ALI exposure reflects the physiological conditions of the deep lung more closely to subacute in vivo inhalation scenarios compared to submerged exposure. The comparability of the toxicological results obtained from in vivo and in vitro inhalation data is still challenging. The robustness of ALI exposure scenarios is not yet well understood, but critical for the potential standardization of these methods. We report a cause-and-effect (C&E) analysis of a flow through ALI exposure system. The influence of five different instrumental and physiological parameters affecting cell viability and exposure parameters of a human lung cell line in vitro (exposure duration, relative humidity, temperature, CO2 concentration and flow rate) was investigated. After exposing lung epithelia cells to a CeO2 nanoparticle (NP) aerosol, intracellular CeO2 concentrations reached values similar to those found in a recent subacute rat inhalation study in vivo. This is the first study showing that the NP concentration reached in vitro using a flow through ALI system were the same as those in an in vivo study.
Strategies for Controlling Through-Space Charge Transport in Metal-Organic Frameworks via Structural Modifications
Authors: Winkler Christian , Zojer Egbert
Published: November 2020

In recent years, charge transport in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) has shifted into the focus of scientific research. In this context, systems with efficient through-space charge transport pathways resulting from π-stacked conjugated linkers are of particular interest. In the current manuscript, we use density functional theory-based simulations to provide a detailed understanding of such MOFs, which, in the present case, are derived from the prototypical Zn2(TTFTB) system (with TTFTB4− corresponding to tetrathiafulvalene tetrabenzoate). In particular, we show that factors such as the relative arrangement of neighboring linkers and the details of the structural conformations of the individual building blocks have a profound impact on bandwidths and charge transfer. Considering the helical stacking of individual tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) molecules around a screw axis as the dominant symmetry element in Zn2(TTFTB)-derived materials, the focus, here, is primarily on the impact of the relative rotation of neighboring molecules. Not unexpectedly, changing the stacking distance in the helix also plays a distinct role, especially for structures which display large electronic couplings to start with. The presented results provide guidelines for achieving structures with improved electronic couplings. It is, however, also shown that structural defects (especially missing linkers) provide major obstacles to charge transport in the studied, essentially one-dimensional systems. This suggests that especially the sample quality is a decisive factor for ensuring efficient through-space charge transport in MOFs comprising stacked π-systems.
Study of Changes in Optical and Heat-Conducting Properties of AlN Ceramics under Irradiation with Kr15+ and Xe22+ Heavy Ions
Authors: Kozlovskiy Artem L. , Zdorovets Maxim V. , Uglov Vladimir V.
Published: November 2020

AlN-based ceramics have great prospects for use in the field of structural materials for reactors of the new generation of GenIV, as well as dosimetric and optical devices. Interest in them is due to their unique physical and chemical properties, high resistance to degradation and excellent insulating properties. This work is devoted to the study of changes in the optical and heat-conducting properties of AlN ceramics as a result of irradiation with Kr15+ and Xe22+ heavy ions with energies close to those of fission fragments of uranium nuclei, and fluences 1014–1015 ion/cm2. During the study, dose relationships of changes in the optical properties of ceramics were established, as well as the effect of the type of ions on the degree of radiation damage and deterioration of optical characteristics. It has been found that an increase in the irradiation dose for Kr15+ ions leads to a slight increase in the depth of electron traps, while for samples irradiated with Xe22+ ions there is a sharp increase in the depth of occurrence from 5 to 20%, depending on the irradiation dose. For samples irradiated with Xe22+ ions, the greatest decrease in thermal conductivity was 19%, while for ceramics irradiated with Kr15+ ions, the maximum decrease was not more than 10%. The results show a significant resistance of ceramics to radiation damage by Kr15+ ions and negative effects, leading to a decrease in the resistance of optical and conductive properties of ceramics when irradiated with Xe22+ ions with doses higher than 5 × 1014 ion/cm2. Using the X-ray diffraction method, the dependences of structural distortions and changes in dislocation density in the structure of ceramics on the radiation dose were established. It has been determined that the main structural changes are associated with the fragmentation of grains, which result in an increase in the dislocation density, as well as deformation and distortion of the crystal lattice as a result of the formation of complex defects in the structure.
Single Particle Approaches to Plasmon-Driven Catalysis
Authors: Hamans Ruben F. , Kamarudheen Rifat , Baldi Andrea
Published: November 2020

Plasmonic nanoparticles have recently emerged as a promising platform for photocatalysis thanks to their ability to efficiently harvest and convert light into highly energetic charge carriers and heat. The catalytic properties of metallic nanoparticles, however, are typically measured in ensemble experiments. These measurements, while providing statistically significant information, often mask the intrinsic heterogeneity of the catalyst particles and their individual dynamic behavior. For this reason, single particle approaches are now emerging as a powerful tool to unveil the structure-function relationship of plasmonic nanocatalysts. In this Perspective, we highlight two such techniques based on far-field optical microscopy: surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and super-resolution fluorescence microscopy. We first discuss their working principles and then show how they are applied to the in-situ study of catalysis and photocatalysis on single plasmonic nanoparticles. To conclude, we provide our vision on how these techniques can be further applied to tackle current open questions in the field of plasmonic chemistry.
Band Gap Measurements of Nano-Meter Sized Rutile Thin Films
Authors: Diamantopoulos Nikolaos , Barnasas Alexandros , Garoufalis Christos. , Anyfantis Dimitrios , Bouropoulos Nikolaos , Poulopoulos Panagiotis , Baskoutas Sotirios
Published: November 2020

Thin Titanium films were fabricated on quartz substrates by radio frequency magnetron sputtering under high vacuum. Subsequent annealing at temperatures of 600 ∘C in air resulted in single-phase TiO2 with the structure of rutile, as X-ray diffraction experiment demonstrates. Atomic-force microscopy images verify the high crystalline quality and allow us to determine the grain size even for ultrathin TiO2 films. Rutile has a direct energy band gap at about 3.0–3.2 eV; however, the transitions between the valence and conduction band are dipole forbidden. Just a few meV above that, there is an indirect band gap. The first intense absorption peak appears at about 4 eV. Tauc plots for the position of the indirect band gap show a “blue shift” with decreasing film thickness. Moreover, we find a similar shift for the position of the first absorbance peak studied by the derivative method. The results indicate the presence of quantum confinement effects. This conclusion is supported by theoretical calculations based on a combination of the effective mass theory and the Hartree Fock approximation.
Impact of Tm3+ and Tb3+ Rare Earth Cations Substitution on the Structure and Magnetic Parameters of Co-Ni Nanospinel Ferrite
Authors: Almessiere Munirah A. , Slimani Yassine , Auwal İsmail A. , Shirsath Sagar E. , Manikandan Ayyar , Baykal Abdulhadi , Özçelik Bekir , Ercan İsmail , Trukhanov Sergei V. , Vinnik Denis A. , Trukhanov Alex V.
Published: November 2020

Tm-Tb co-substituted Co-Ni nanospinel ferrites (NSFs) as (Co0.5Ni0.5) [TmxTbxFe2−2x]O4 (x = 0.00–0.05) NSFs were attained via the ultrasound irradiation technique. The phase identification and morphologies of the NSFs were explored using X-rays diffraction (XRD), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), and transmission and scanning electronic microscopes (TEM and SEM). The magnetization measurements against the applied magnetic field (M-H) were made at 300 and 10 K with a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The various prepared nanoparticles revealed a ferrimagnetic character at both 300 and 10 K. The saturation magnetization (Ms), the remanence (Mr), and magneton number (nB) were found to decrease upon the Tb-Tm substitution effect. On the other hand, the coercivity (Hc) was found to diminish with increasing x up to 0.03 and then begins to increase with further rising Tb-Tm content. The Hc values are in the range of 346.7–441.7 Oe at 300 K to 4044.4–5378.7 Oe at 10 K. The variations in magnetic parameters were described based on redistribution of cations, crystallites and/or grains size, canting effects, surface spins effects, super-exchange interaction strength, etc. The observed magnetic results indicated that the synthesized (Co0.5Ni0.5)[TmxTbxFe2−x]O4 NSFs could be considered as promising candidates to be used for room temperature magnetic applications and magnetic recording media.
A Review on Heat Transfer of Nanofluids by Applied Electric Field or Magnetic Field
Authors: Wang Guannan , Zhang Zhen , Wang Ruijin , Zhu Zefei
Published: November 2020

Nanofluids are considered to be a next-generation heat transfer medium due to their excellent thermal performance. To investigate the effect of electric fields and magnetic fields on heat transfer of nanofluids, this paper analyzes the mechanism of thermal conductivity enhancement of nanofluids, the chaotic convection and the heat transfer enhancement of nanofluids in the presence of an applied electric field or magnetic field through the method of literature review. The studies we searched showed that applied electric field and magnetic field can significantly affect the heat transfer performance of nanofluids, although there are still many different opinions about the effect and mechanism of heat transfer. In a word, this review is supposed to be useful for the researchers who want to understand the research state of heat transfer of nanofluids.
Silicon-Carbide (SiC) Nanocrystal Technology and Characterization and Its Applications in Memory Structures
Authors: Mazurak Andrzej , Mroczyński Robert , Beke David , Gali Adam
Published: November 2020

Colloidal cubic silicon-carbide nanocrystals have been fabricated, characterized, and introduced into metal–insulator–semiconductor and metal–insulator–metal structures based on hafnium oxide layers. The fabricated structures were characterized through the stress-and-sense measurements in terms of device capacitance, flat-band voltage shift, switching characteristics, and retention time. The examined electrical performance of the sample structures has demonstrated the feasibility of the application of both types of structures based on SiC nanoparticles in memory devices.
Facile One-Step Hydrothermal Synthesis of the rGO@Ni3V2O8 Interconnected Hollow Microspheres Composite for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Ghani Faizan , Nah In Wook , Kim Hyung-Seok , Lim JongChoo , Marium Afifa , Ijaz Muhammad Fazal , Rana Abu ul Hassan S.
Published: November 2020

Low-cost, vanadium-based mixed metal oxides mostly have a layered crystal structure with excellent kinetics for lithium-ion batteries, providing high energy density. The existence of multiple oxidation states and the coordination chemistry of vanadium require cost-effective, robust techniques to synthesize the scaling up of their morphology and surface properties. Hydrothermal synthesis is one of the most suitable techniques to achieve pure phase and multiple morphologies under various conditions of temperature and pressure. We attained a simple one-step hydrothermal approach to synthesize the reduced graphene oxide coated Nickel Vanadate (rGO@Ni3V2O8) composite with interconnected hollow microspheres. The self-assembly route produced microspheres, which were interconnected under hydrothermal treatment. Cyclic performance determined the initial discharge/charge capacities of 1209.76/839.85 mAh g−1 at the current density of 200 mA g−1 with a columbic efficiency of 69.42%, which improved to 99.64% after 100 cycles. High electrochemical performance was observed due to high surface area, the porous nature of the interconnected hollow microspheres, and rGO induction. These properties increased the contact area between electrode and electrolyte, the active surface of the electrodes, and enhanced electrolyte penetration, which improved Li-ion diffusivity and electronic conductivity.
Growth of Homogeneous Luminescent Silicon–Terbium Nanowires by One-Step Electrodeposition in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Thomas Shibin , Mallet Jeremy , Bahuleyan Bijal K. , Molinari Michael
Published: November 2020

An electrodeposition method for the growth of homogeneous silicon–terbium nanowires (NWs) with green light emission is described. The method involves template-assisted electrochemical co-deposition of Si/Tb NWs with 90-nm diameter from an electrolyte bath containing Si and Tb precursors in an ionic liquid (IL). This method of deposition is advantageous over other conventional techniques as it is relatively simple and cost-effective and avoids harsh deposition conditions. The deposited NWs are of uniform dimensions with homogeneous composition incorporating 10% of Tb and exhibit intense room temperature (RT) luminescence in the visible range due to Tb emission. These results were confirmed by combining classical characterization such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and photoluminescence (PL) performed on an assembly of NWs with spatially resolved experiments such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and cathodoluminescence (CL). This electrodeposition method provides an alternative and extremely simple approach for depositing silicon-rare earth nanostructures for optical and sensing applications.
Nonlinear Optical Response of Reflective MXene Molybdenum Carbide Films as Saturable Absorbers
Authors: Wang Jiang , Wang Yonggang , Liu Sicong , Li Guangying , Zhang Guodong , Cheng Guanghua
Published: November 2020

Molybdenum carbide (Mo2C) is a two-dimensional (2D) MXene material which makes it a promising photoelectric material. In this study, reflective type MXene Mo2C thin films were coated on a silver mirror by a magnetron sputtering method and were subsequently used in a passively Q-switched solid-state pulsed laser generator at the central wavelengths of 1.06 and 1.34 μm, respectively. The fabricated thin films of reflective type MXene Mo2C exhibited large modulation depth of 6.86% and 5.38% at the central wavelengths of 1064 and 1342 nm, respectively. By inserting the Mo2C saturable absorbers (SAs) into V-shaped Nd:YAG laser, short pulses were generated having a pulse duration, pulse energy, and average output power of 254 ns, 2.96 μJ, and 275 mW, respectively, at a wavelength of 1.06 μm. Similarly, shorter laser pulses were obtained in Nd:YVO4 laser at 1.34 μm. Our results illustrated potential of the 2D MXene Mo2C films for laser applications.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Computational Quantum Physics and Chemistry of Nanomaterials
Authors: Šob Mojmír
Published: November 2020

Nanomaterials have become increasingly important both in basic research and in applications [...]
Deep Learning in LncRNAome: Contribution, Challenges, and Perspectives
Authors: Alam Tanvir , Al-Absi Hamada R. H. , Schmeier Sebastian
Published: November 2020

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA), the pervasively transcribed part of the mammalian genome, have played a significant role in changing our protein-centric view of genomes. The abundance of lncRNAs and their diverse roles across cell types have opened numerous avenues for the research community regarding lncRNAome. To discover and understand lncRNAome, many sophisticated computational techniques have been leveraged. Recently, deep learning (DL)-based modeling techniques have been successfully used in genomics due to their capacity to handle large amounts of data and produce relatively better results than traditional machine learning (ML) models. DL-based modeling techniques have now become a choice for many modeling tasks in the field of lncRNAome as well. In this review article, we summarized the contribution of DL-based methods in nine different lncRNAome research areas. We also outlined DL-based techniques leveraged in lncRNAome, highlighting the challenges computational scientists face while developing DL-based models for lncRNAome. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review article that summarizes the role of DL-based techniques in multiple areas of lncRNAome.
The Dark Side of Healthy Eating: Links between Orthorexic Eating and Mental Health
Authors: Strahler Jana
Published: November 2020

Orthorexia nervosa (OrNe) describes a behavior where eating overly healthy develops into an obsession leading to significant impairment and stress. Initial studies support a bi-dimensional structure of orthorexic eating with one dimension healthy orthorexia (HeOr, interest in healthy eating), which can be distinguished from the dimension OrNe. The present study pursued the goals to examine the negative consequences of OrNe on mental health, whether HeOr buffers these effects, and the role of gender. Data from two cross-sectional online surveys were combined (study 1 n = 385, 310 women; study 2 n = 398, 265 women; mean age: 28.9 ± 12.0 year) both generating data on psychological wellbeing, life satisfaction, stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms in relation to OrNe and HeOr (Teruel Orthorexia Scale). By means of correlation and moderation analyses, OrNe was shown to be associated with poorer mental health, especially in the female sample. In terms of HeOr, clear gender differences appeared. There were no meaningful correlations in women. In men, however, HeOr correlated with better mental health. Further, the link between OrNe and poorer mental health was mitigated when there were high HeOr levels. Present findings support the hypotheses that OrNe is associated with pathological consequences and that HeOr may act as a buffer for these consequences. Gender differences in the clinical manifestation of orthorexic eating confirm previous knowledge and have important implications for targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
Olive Leaf Extract, from Olea europaea L., Reduces Palmitate-Induced Inflammation via Regulation of Murine Macrophages Polarization
Authors: De Cicco Paola , Maisto Maria , Tenore Gian Carlo , Ianaro Angela
Published: November 2020

Olive tree (Olea europaea L.) leaves are an abundant source of bioactive compounds with several beneficial effects for human health. Recently, the effect of olive leaf extract in obesity has been studied. However, the molecular mechanism in preventing obesity-related inflammation has not been elucidated. Obesity is a state of chronic low-grade inflammation and is associated with an increase of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages infiltration in the adipose tissue. In the current study, we explored Olea europaea L. leaf extract (OLE) anti-inflammatory activity using an in vitro model of obesity-induced inflammation obtained by stimulating murine macrophages RAW 264.7 with high dose of the free fatty acid palmitate. We found that OLE significantly suppressed the induction of pro-inflammatory mediators, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), while it enhanced the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10. Moreover, we demonstrated that OLE reduced the oxidative stress induced by palmitate in macrophages by regulating the NF-E2-related factor 2 (NRF2)−Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) pathway. Finally, we showed that OLE promoted the shift of M1 macrophage toward less inflammatory M2-cells via the modulation of the associated NF-κB and proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) signaling pathways. Thereby, our findings shed light on the potential therapeutic feature of OLE in recovering obesity-associated inflammation via regulating M1/M2 status.
Teaghrelin Protects SH-SY5Y Cells against MPP+-Induced Neurotoxicity through Activation of AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α and ERK1/2 Pathways
Authors: Jhuo Cian-Fen , Hsieh Sheng-Kuo , Chen Chun-Jung , Chen Wen-Ying , Tzen Jason T.C.
Published: November 2020

The prevalence and incidence of Parkinson’s disease (PD), an age-related neurodegenerative disease, are higher among elderly people. Independent of etiology, dysfunction and loss of dopaminergic neurons are common pathophysiological changes in PD patients with impaired motor and non-motor function. Currently, preventive or therapeutic treatment for combating PD is limited. The ghrelin axis and ghrelin receptor have been implicated in the preservation of dopaminergic neurons and have potential implications in PD treatment. Teaghrelin, a compound originating from Chin-Shin Oolong tea, exhibits ghrelin agonist activity. In this study, the neuroprotective potential of teaghrelin against PD was explored in a cell model in which human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were treated with the mitochondrial toxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+). Upon MPP+ exposure, SH-SY5Y cells exhibited decreased mitochondrial complex I activity and apoptotic cell death. Teaghrelin activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/sirtuin 1(SIRT1)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) and extracellular signal–regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) pathways to antagonize MPP+-induced cell death. Herein, we propose that teaghrelin is a potential candidate for the therapeutic treatment of PD.
Relationship between Marketing to Children on Food Labeling and Critical Nutrient Content in Processed and Ultra-Processed Products Sold in Supermarkets in Lima, Peru
Authors: Torres-Schiaffino Daniella , Saavedra-Garcia Lorena
Published: November 2020

Consumption of ultra-processed foods has increased alarmingly, representing a risk to children’s health. Different techniques in marketing to kids (M2K) used on food labels are influencing the purchasing decisions of these products. This study aims to provide useful information about M2K found in labeling of food products sold in a supermarket chain in Lima, Peru and to determine its relationship with critical nutrient content. This was an observational, correlational, descriptive study. Data were collected by photographing the front-of-pack (FoP) of 2747 product labels sold in three supermarkets in Lima, but only those that met all the inclusion criteria were evaluated (n = 1092). A relationship was found between the use of techniques in marketing to kids and the level of critical nutrient regarding saturated fat (PR = 0.56; CI95%: 0.52–0.63), total sugar (PR = 1.70; CI95%: 1.64–1.77), and sodium (PR = 1.05; CI95%: 1.03–1.07). Particularly with sugar, the presence of M2K is a risk factor. New regulatory policies for the use of these food labeling techniques should be implemented to improve children’s health at the population level.
Anthropometric, Familial- and Lifestyle-Related Characteristics of School Children Skipping Breakfast in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Hazzaa Hazzaa M. , Al-Rasheedi Amani A. , Alsulaimani Rayan A. , Jabri Laura
Published: November 2020

Breakfast is a vital meal that provides children with important nutrients and energy. This study examined the anthropometric, familial- and lifestyle-related characteristics of school children skipping breakfast. A total of 1149 children (boys: 45.5%), 6 to 12 years old (mean and SD: 9.3 ± 1.7 years), were randomly selected from elementary schools in Jeddah. Weight and height were measured. Breakfast eating frequency, socio-demographics, and lifestyle behaviors were assessed using a specifically designed self-report questionnaire reported by the parents. Nearly 80% of the children skipped daily breakfast at home with no significant age or gender differences. The most common reasons for skipping breakfast at home included not feeling hungry and waking up late for school. Fried egg sandwiches and breakfast cereals were most frequently consumed for breakfast. Strong parental support for breakfast as the main daily meal was significantly associated with daily breakfast intake. Logistic regression analyses, adjusted for age, gender, and socio-demographics, revealed that paternal education (aOR = 1.212, 95% CI = 1.020–1.440, p = 0.029), maternal education (aOR = 1.212, 95% CI = 1.003–1.464, p=0.046), insufficient sleep (aOR = 0.735, 95% CI = 0.567–0.951, p = 0.019), and BMI <25 kg/m2 (aOR = 1.333, 95% CI = 1.015–1.752, p = 0.039) were significantly associated with breakfast intake. The findings have implications for children’s health and school performance. Concerted effort is required to promote breakfast consumption among Saudi children.
Cooking as a Health Behavior: Examining the Role of Cooking Classes in a Weight Loss Intervention
Authors: Alpaugh Mattie , Pope Lizzy , Trubek Amy , Skelly Joan , Harvey Jean
Published: November 2020

Americans are cooking fewer meals at home and eating more convenience foods prepared elsewhere. Cooking at home is associated with higher quality diets, while a reduction in cooking may be associated with increases in obesity and risk factors for chronic disease. The aims of this study were to examine cooking as an intervention for weight control in overweight and obese adults, and whether such an intervention increases participants’ food agency and diet quality. Overweight and obese adults were randomized into one of two intervention conditions: active or demonstration. Both conditions received the same 24-week behavioral weight loss intervention, and bi-weekly cooking classes. The active condition prepared a weekly meal during a hands-on lesson, while the demonstration condition observed a chef prepare the same meal. The active condition lost significantly more weight at six months compared with the demonstration condition (7.3% vs. 4.5%). Both conditions saw significant improvements in food agency scores and Healthy Eating Index scores, though no significant differences were noted between groups. The addition of active cooking to a weight management intervention may improve weight loss outcomes, though benefits in diet quality and cooking behaviors may also be seen with the addition of a demonstration-only cooking intervention.
Magnesium Status and Stress: The Vicious Circle Concept Revisited
Authors: Pickering Gisèle , Mazur André , Trousselard Marion , Bienkowski Przemyslaw , Yaltsewa Natalia , Amessou Mohamed , Noah Lionel , Pouteau Etienne
Published: November 2020

Magnesium deficiency and stress are both common conditions among the general population, which, over time, can increase the risk of health consequences. Numerous studies, both in pre-clinical and clinical settings, have investigated the interaction of magnesium with key mediators of the physiological stress response, and demonstrated that magnesium plays an inhibitory key role in the regulation and neurotransmission of the normal stress response. Furthermore, low magnesium status has been reported in several studies assessing nutritional aspects in subjects suffering from psychological stress or associated symptoms. This overlap in the results suggests that stress could increase magnesium loss, causing a deficiency; and in turn, magnesium deficiency could enhance the body’s susceptibility to stress, resulting in a magnesium and stress vicious circle. This review revisits the magnesium and stress vicious circle concept, first introduced in the early 1990s, in light of recent available data.
Effects of Yeast Mannan Which Promotes Beneficial Bacteroides on the Intestinal Environment and Skin Condition: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Tanihiro Reiko , Sakano Katsuhisa , Oba Shunsuke , Nakamura Chikako , Ohki Kohji , Hirota Tatsuhiko , Sugiyama Hiroshi , Ebihara Shukuko , Nakamura Yasunori
Published: November 2020

Yeast mannan (YM) is an indigestible water-soluble polysaccharide of the yeast cell wall. In vitro fecal fermentation studies showed that YM could exhibit a notable prebiotic effect. The aim of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to assess the efficacy of YM intake on the intestinal environment and skin condition. One hundred and ten healthy female subjects aged 30–49 years were supplemented with YM or placebo for eight weeks. Skin dryness was set as the primary endpoint. No side effects were observed during the study. Microbiota analyses revealed that YM intake selectively increased the relative abundance of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and Bacteroides ovatus compared to that by placebo. Feces and urine analyses showed that YM intake lowered the concentration of fecal p-cresol, indole, and skatole, and elevated urinal equol levels compared to those in placebo. Furthermore, YM supplementation ameliorated subjective skin dryness. This study suggests that YM intake could promote beneficial Bacteroides and improve the intestinal environment and skin condition.
Low Oral Bioavailability and Partial Gut Microbiotic and Phase II Metabolism of Brussels/Witloof Chicory Sesquiterpene Lactones in Healthy Humans
Authors: Weng Hui , He Luanying , Zheng Jiakun , Li Qing , Liu Xiuping , Wang Dongliang
Published: November 2020

Free and glycosylated sesquiterpene lactones (SLs), which are abundant in leafy vegetables including Brussels/witloof chicory, possess health-promoting effects in vivo. However, the pharmacokinetics of dietary source of SLs remain largely unknown. In this open-label and single-dose trial, sixteen healthy volunteers consumed 150 g of Brussels/witloof chicory juice containing 48.77 μmol SLs in 5 min. Blood, urine, and fecal samples were collected before and after chicory consumption in 24 h. No SLs were detected in the serum, urine, and fecal samples before chicory consumption in all of the participants. Chicory consumption increased lactucin, 11β,13-dihydrolactucin, and their glucuronide/sulfate conjugates, rather than lactucopicrin and 11β,13-dihydrolactucopicrin, as well as glycosylated SLs in biological samples. The peak concentration of total SLs in serum reached 284.46 nmol/L at 1 h, while, in urine, this peak was 220.3 nmol between 2 and 6 h. The recovery of total SLs in blood, urine, and feces was 7.03%, 1.13%, and 43.76% of the ingested dose, respectively. Human fecal suspensions with intestinal microbiota degraded glycosylated SLs in chicory, and converted lactucopicrin and 11β,13-dihydrolactucopicrin to lactucin and 11β,13-dihydrolactucin, respectively. Collectively, Brussels/witloof chicory SLs are poorly bioavailable and they undergo partial gut microbial and phase II metabolism in humans.
Nutrition Support in Liver Transplantation and Postoperative Recovery: The Effects of Vitamin D Level and Vitamin D Supplementation in Liver Transplantation
Authors: Doi Junshi , Moro Amika , Fujiki Masato , Eghtesad Bijan , Quintini Cristiano , Menon K. V. Narayanan , Hashimoto Koji , Sasaki Kazunari
Published: November 2020

Vitamin D plays an important role in the arena of liver transplantation. In addition to affecting skeletal health significantly, it also clinically exerts immune-modulatory properties. Vitamin D deficiency is one of the nutritional issues in the perioperative period of liver transplantation (LT). Although vitamin D deficiency is known to contribute to higher incidences of acute cellular rejection (ACR) and graft failure in other solid organ transplantation, such as kidneys and lungs, its role in LT is not well understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical implication of vitamin D deficiency in LT. LT outcomes were reviewed in a retrospective cohort of 528 recipients during 2014–2019. In the pre-transplant period, 55% of patients were vitamin-D-deficient. The serum vitamin D level was correlated with the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD-Na) score. Vitamin D deficiency in the post-transplant period was associated with lower survival after LT, and the post-transplant supplementation of vitamin D was associated with a lower risk of ACR. The optimal vitamin D status and vitamin D supplementation in the post-transplant period may prolong survival and reduce ACR incidence.
Malnutrition: Percentage and Association with Prognosis in Patients Hospitalized for Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Allard Lucie , Ouedraogo Elise , Molleville Julie , Bihan Helene , Giroux-Leprieur Bénédicte , Sutton Angela , Baudry Camille , Josse Constant , Didier Morgane , Deutsch David , Bouchaud Olivier , Cosson Emmanuel
Published: November 2020

Previous studies have found a correlation between malnutrition and prognosis in respiratory infections. Our objectives were to determine (i) the percentage of malnutrition, and (ii) its prognosis in patients admitted for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this monocentric retrospective study, we consecutively included all adult patients presenting with acute COVID-19 between 9 April and 29 May 2020. Malnutrition was diagnosed on low body mass index (BMI) and weight loss ≥ 5% in the previous month and/or ≥ 10% in the previous six months. The Nutritional Risk Index (NRI) defined nutritional risk. Severe COVID-19 was defined as a need for nasal oxygen ≥ 6 L/min. We enrolled 108 patients (64 men, 62 ± 16 years, BMI 28.8 ± 6.2 kg/m2), including 34 (31.5%) with severe COVID-19. Malnutrition was found in 42 (38.9%) patients, and moderate or severe nutritional risk in 83 (84.7%) patients. Malnutrition was not associated with COVID-19 severity. Nutritional risk was associated with severe COVID-19 (p < 0.01; p < 0.01 after adjustment for C reactive protein), as were lower plasma proteins, albumin, prealbumin, and zinc levels (p < 0.01). The main cause of malnutrition was inflammation. The high percentage of malnutrition and the association between nutritional risk and COVID-19 prognosis supports international guidelines advising regular screening and nutritional support when necessary.
Maternal Intake of Cow’s Milk during Lactation Is Associated with Lower Prevalence of Food Allergy in Offspring
Authors: Stråvik Mia , Barman Malin , Hesselmar Bill , Sandin Anna , Wold Agnes E. , Sandberg Ann-Sofie
Published: November 2020

Maternal diet during pregnancy and lactation may affect the propensity of the child to develop an allergy. The aim was to assess and compare the dietary intake of pregnant and lactating women, validate it with biomarkers, and to relate these data to physician-diagnosed allergy in the offspring at 12 months of age. Maternal diet during pregnancy and lactation was assessed by repeated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaires in a prospective Swedish birth cohort (n = 508). Fatty acid proportions were measured in maternal breast milk and erythrocytes. Allergy was diagnosed at 12 months of age by a pediatrician specialized in allergy. An increased maternal intake of cow’s milk during lactation, confirmed with biomarkers (fatty acids C15:0 and C17:0) in the maternal blood and breast milk, was associated with a lower prevalence of physician-diagnosed food allergy by 12 months of age. Intake of fruit and berries during lactation was associated with a higher prevalence of atopic eczema at 12 months of age. Our results suggest that maternal diet modulates the infant’s immune system, thereby influencing subsequent allergy development.