bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Extraordinary Variety and Complexity of Minerals in a Single Keokuk Geode from the Lower Warsaw Formation, Hamilton, Illinois, USA
Authors: Mahaffey Nova , Finkelman Robert B.
Published: July 2022

We performed an extensive optical and chemical analysis of a single Keokuk geode using electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy that revealed an extraordinary array of minerals and multiple, complex cycles of mineralization. We identified at least 15 minerals including 5 that, to our knowledge, have not been reported in previous studies of these geodes. Along with bitumen we have described the occurrence of REE’s, and other unidentified phases containing metals such as chromium, nickel, molybdenum, tin, copper, zinc, and lead. Additionally, preliminary thin-section analysis reveals the occurrence of the tentatively identified minerals zircon, rutile, and xenotime as well as grains containing gold and silver within the chalcedony shell. The presence of these potentially economically valuable minerals warrants further investigation into the micro-minerology of Keokuk geodes. Our SEM/EDX analysis reveals an array of complex mineral assemblages, intergrowths, and inclusions that help chronologically link multiple stages of paragenesis occurring in different locations within the geode. Consequently, morphology and intricate microstructures provide a window into the extreme complexity of mineral crystallization. The majority of micro-minerals we have observed correspond with the later stages of geode paragenesis, thus providing a detailed record of the secondary mineralization processes which occurred over thousands to millions of years.
Magnetotelluric Responses of an Anisotropic 1-D Earth with a Layer of Exponentially Varying Conductivity
Authors: Qin Linjiang , Ding Weifeng , Yang Changfu
Published: July 2022

The magnetotelluric (MT) sounding of a layered Earth model involving a transitional layer has been widely studied, and MT responses of the model with dipping anisotropic conductivity have also been treated. However, a model incorporating both a transitional layer and dipping anisotropy has seldom been considered. The analytical solution of such a geoelectrical model including three layers was derived in this study. The middle layer was a transitional layer with conductivity exponentially varying with depth, which was covered by a homogeneous layer and underlaid by a dipping anisotropic half-space. The electromagnetic (EM) fields in the transitional layer were explicitly solved with modified Bessel functions. The surface impedance was calculated recursively. The dependence of the apparent resistivity and impedance phase as well as the EM fields on different model parameters were investigated in detail. We believe that our analytical solution provides a useful complement to the theory of the one-dimensional (1D) inversion and interpretation based on the layered model with fixed conductivity.
Response of Travertine Dam to Precipitation over the Past 800 Years in Zabuye Salt Lake, Southwestern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Li Mingming , Zheng Mianping , Ye Chuanyong , Wang Chenguang , Zhang Xuefei , Wang Xuefeng , Zhao Yuanyi , Zhang Yanbo
Published: July 2022

The Tibetan Plateau is known as the core area of the third pole of the Earth and is a key area for global climate change research. This study uses the Zabuye Salt Lake travertine dam as the research object and U–Th dating as the chronological framework and proposes that the carbon and oxygen isotopes of travertine can be used as a precipitation index through the analysis of hydrogen and oxygen isotopes of spring water, and petrology, mineralogy, carbon and oxygen isotopes of travertine. The precipitation records of Zabuye Salt Lake over the last 800 years show a dry condition in 1191–1374 AD (Medieval Warm Period), a humid condition in 1374–1884 AD (Little Ice Age), and a dry condition in 1884–1982 AD (Current Warn Period), indicating a warm–dry/cold–moist climate pattern, which is consistent with precipitation records from many places on the Tibetan Plateau. We preliminarily point out that travertine can record the evolution of paleoprecipitation (paleomonsoon) at least on the decadal–centennial scale. The Indian summer monsoon has been the main factor influencing precipitation change in Zabuye Salt Lake over the past 800 years, and the change in evapotranspiration intensity caused by temperature change driven by solar radiation is also an important factor affecting dry–moist change.
Occurrence and Characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Dairy Products
Authors: Szczuka Ewa , Porada Karolina , Wesołowska Maria , Łęska Bogusława
Published: July 2022

Food, particularly milk and cheese, may be a reservoir of multi-drug resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains, which can be considered an important issue in terms of food safety. Furthermore, foods of animal origin can be a cause of staphylococcal food poisoning via the production of heat-stable enterotoxins (SE). For this reason, we investigated the prevalence of and characterized Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from milk and fresh soft cheese obtained from farms located in Wielkopolskie and Zachodniopomorskie Provinces in Poland. Overall, 92% of S. aureus isolates were positive for at least one of the 18 enterotoxin genes identified, and 26% of the strains harbored 5 to 8 enterotoxin genes. Moreover, the S. aureus strains contained genes conferring resistance to antibiotics that are critically important in both human and veterinary medicine, i.e., β-lactams (mecA), aminoglycosides (aac(6′)/aph(2″), aph(3′)-IIIa, ant(4′)-Ia) and MLSB (erm(A), msr(A), lun(A)). The antimicrobial susceptibility of S. aureus to 16 antibiotics representing 11 different categories showed that 74% of the strains were resistant to at least 1 antibiotic. Moreover, 28% of the strains showed multidrug resistance; in particular, two methicillin-resistant S. aureus strains (MRSA) exhibited significant antibiotic resistance. In summary, our results show that dairy products are contaminated by S. aureus strains carrying genes encoding a variety of enterotoxins as well genes conferring resistance to antibiotics. Both MRSA strains and MSSA isolates showing multidrug resistance were present in foods of animal origin.
Anticancer Inhibitors
Authors: Ammazzalorso Alessandra , Fantacuzzi Marialuigia
Published: July 2022

Cancer is a multifactorial disorder caused by several aberrations in gene expression that generate a homeostatic imbalance between cell division and death [...]
Mechanistic Insights into the Mechanism of Inhibitor Selectivity toward the Dark Kinase STK17B against Its High Homology STK17A
Authors: Liu Chang , Zhang Yichi , Zhang Yuqing , Liu Zonghan , Mao Feifei , Chai Zongtao
Published: July 2022

As a member of the death-associated protein kinase (DAPK) family, STK17B plays an important role in the regulation of cellular apoptosis and has been considered as a promising drug target for hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the highly conserved ATP-binding site of protein kinases represents a challenge to design selective inhibitors for a specific DAPK isoform. In this study, molecular docking, multiple large-scale molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and binding free energy calculations were performed to decipher the molecular mechanism of the binding selectivity of PKIS43 toward STK17B against its high homology STK17A. MD simulations revealed that STK17A underwent a significant conformational arrangement of the activation loop compared to STK17B. The binding free energy predictions suggested that the driving force to control the binding selectivity of PKIS43 was derived from the difference in the protein–ligand electrostatic interactions. Furthermore, the per-residue free energy decomposition unveiled that the energy contribution from Arg41 at the phosphate-binding loop of STK17B was the determinant factor responsible for the binding specificity of PKIS43. This study may provide useful information for the rational design of novel and potent selective inhibitors toward STK17B.
Physiology-Based Pharmacokinetic Study on 18β-Glycyrrhetic Acid Mono-Glucuronide (GAMG) Prior to Glycyrrhizin in Rats
Authors: Cao Mengxin , Zuo Jiawei , Yang Jian-Guo , Wu Chenyao , Yang Yongan , Tang Wenjian , Zhu Lili
Published: July 2022

To understand that 18β-Glycyrrhetic acid 3-O-mono-β-D-glucuronide (GAMG) showed better pharmacological activity and drug-like properties than 18β-Glycyrrhizin (GL); a rapid and sensitive HPLC-MS/MS method was established for the simultaneous determination of GAMG and its metabolite 18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) in rat plasma and tissues after oral administration of GAMG or GL. This analytical method was validated by linearity, LLOQ, specificity, recovery rate, matrix effect, etc. After oral administration, GAMG exhibited excellent Cmax (2377.57 ng/mL), Tmax (5 min) and AUC0-T (6625.54 mg/L*h), which was much higher than the Cmax (346.03 ng/mL), Tmax (2.00 h) and AUC0-T (459.32 mg/L*h) of GL. Moreover, GAMG had wider and higher tissue distribution in the kidney, spleen, live, lung, brain, etc. These results indicated that oral GAMG can be rapidly and efficiently absorbed and be widely distributed in tissues to exert stronger and multiple pharmacological activities. This provided a physiological basis for guiding the pharmacodynamic study and clinical applications of GAMG.
Synthesis of Cobalt Bis(Dicarbollide)—Curcumin Conjugates for Potential Use in Boron Neutron Capture Therapy
Authors: Dezhenkova Lyubov G. , Druzina Anna A. , Volodina Yulia L. , Dudarova Nadezhda V. , Nekrasova Natalia A. , Zhidkova Olga B. , Grin Mikhail A. , Bregadze Vladimir I.
Published: July 2022

A series of novel cobalt bis(dicarbollide)—curcumin conjugates were synthesized. Two conjugates were obtained through the nucleophilic ring-opening reaction of the 1,4-dioxane and tetrahydropyran derivatives of cobalt bis(dicarbollide) with the OH group of curcumin, and using two equiv. of the oxonium derivatives, two other conjugates containing two cobalt bis(dicarbollide) units per molecule were obtained. In contrast to curcumin, the conjugates obtained were found to be non-cytotoxic against both tumor and normal cell lines. The analysis of the intracellular accumulation of the conjugates by flow cytometry showed that all cobalt bis(dicarbollide)—curcumin conjugates entered HCT116 colorectal carcinoma cells in a time-dependent manner. New non-cytotoxic conjugates contain a large amount of boron atoms in the biomolecule and can potentially be used for further biological research into boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT).
Trends on CO2 Capture with Microalgae: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Miranda Alejandra M. , Hernandez-Tenorio Fabian , Ocampo David , Vargas Gabriel J. , Sáez Alex A.
Published: July 2022

The alarming levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) are an environmental problem that affects the economic growth of the world. CO2 emissions represent penalties and restrictions due to the high carbon footprint. Therefore, sustainable strategies are required to reduce the negative impact that occurs. Among the potential systems for CO2 capture are microalgae. These are defined as photosynthetic microorganisms that use CO2 and sunlight to obtain oxygen (O2) and generate value-added products such as biofuels, among others. Despite the advantages that microalgae may present, there are still technical–economic challenges that limit industrial-scale commercialization and the use of biomass in the production of added-value compounds. Therefore, this study reviews the current state of research on CO2 capture with microalgae, for which bibliometric analysis was used to establish the trends of the subject in terms of scientometric parameters. Technological advances in the use of microalgal biomass were also identified. Additionally, it was possible to establish the different cooperation networks between countries, which showed interactions in the search to reduce CO2 concentrations through microalgae.
MoS2-Decorated Graphene@porous Carbon Nanofiber Anodes via Centrifugal Spinning
Authors: Abdolrazzaghian Elham , Zhu Jiadeng , Kim Juran , Yanilmaz Meltem
Published: July 2022

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries as green energy storage devices because of their similar working principles and the abundance of low-cost sodium resources. Nanostructured carbon materials are attracting great interest as high-performance anodes for SIBs. Herein, a simple and fast technique to prepare carbon nanofibers (CNFs) is presented, and the effects of carbonization conditions on the morphology and electrochemical properties of CNF anodes in Li- and Na-ion batteries are investigated. Porous CNFs containing graphene were fabricated via centrifugal spinning, and MoS2 were decorated on graphene-included porous CNFs via hydrothermal synthesis. The effect of MoS2 on the morphology and the electrode performance was examined in detail. The results showed that the combination of centrifugal spinning, hydrothermal synthesis, and heat treatment is an efficient way to fabricate high-performance electrodes for rechargeable batteries. Furthermore, CNFs fabricated at a carbonization temperature of 800 °C delivered the highest capacity, and the addition of MoS2 improved the reversible capacity up to 860 mAh/g and 455 mAh/g for Li- and Na-ion batteries, respectively. A specific capacity of over 380 mAh/g was observed even at a high current density of 1 A/g. Centrifugal spinning and hydrothermal synthesis allowed for the fabrication of high-performance electrodes for sodium ion batteries.
AlGaN Quantum Disk Nanorods with Efficient UV-B Emission Grown on Si(111) Using Molecular Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Zhang Dongqi , Tao Tao , Sun Haiding , Li Siqi , Jia Hongfeng , Yu Huabin , Shao Pengfei , Li Zhenhua , Wu Yaozheng , Xie Zili , Wang Ke , Long Shibing , Liu Bin , Zhang Rong , Zheng Youdou
Published: July 2022

AlGaN nanorods have attracted increasing amounts of attention for use in ultraviolet (UV) optoelectronic devices. Here, self-assembled AlGaN nanorods with embedding quantum disks (Qdisks) were grown on Si(111) using plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PA-MBE). The morphology and quantum construction of the nanorods were investigated and well-oriented and nearly defect-free nanorods were shown to have a high density of about 2 × 1010 cm−2. By controlling the substrate temperature and Al/Ga ratio, the emission wavelengths of the nanorods could be adjusted from 276 nm to 330 nm. By optimizing the structures and growth parameters of the Qdisks, a high internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of the AlGaN Qdisk nanorods of up to 77% was obtained at 305 nm, which also exhibited a shift in the small emission wavelength peak with respect to the increasing temperatures during the PL measurements.
Fabrication of Durable Superhydrophobic Surface for Versatile Oil/Water Separation Based on HDTMS Modified PPy/ZnO
Authors: Fan Shumin , Jiang Sujie , Wang Zhenjie , Liang Pengchao , Fan Wenxiu , Zhuo Kelei , Xu Guangri
Published: July 2022

Superhydrophobic materials have been widely applied in rapid removal and collection of oils from oil/water mixtures for increasing damage to environment and human beings caused by oil-contaminated wastewater and oil spills. Herein, superhydrophobic materials were fabricated by a novel polypyrrole (PPy)/ZnO coating followed by hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS) modification for versatile oil/water separation with high environmental and excellent reusability. The prepared superhydrophobic surfaces exhibited water contact angle (WCA) greater than 150° and SA less than 5°. The superhydrophobic fabric could be applied for separation of heavy oil or light oil/water mixtures and emulsions with the separation efficiencies above 98%. The coated fabric also realized highly efficient separation with harsh environmental solutions, such as acid, alkali, salt, and hot water. The superhydrophobic fabric still remained, even after 80 cycles of separation and 12 months of storage in air, proving excellent durability. These novel superhydrophobic materials have indicated great development potentials for oil/water separation in practical applications.
Advances in Nanomaterials for Lithium-Ion/Post-Lithium-Ion Batteries and Supercapacitors
Authors: Marinaro Mario , Dsoke Sonia
Published: July 2022

Energy storage and conversion are key factors for enabling the transition from fossil fuels to intermittent renewables [...]
Healthy Food, Healthy Teeth: A Formative Study to Assess Knowledge of Foods for Oral Health in Children and Adults
Authors: Hancock Sarah , Schofield Grant , Zinn Caryn
Published: July 2022

Eating patterns characterised by low intakes of processed carbohydrates and higher intakes of fat- and Vitamin D-rich foods are associated with protection against dental caries. The aim of this formative study was to evaluate the extent to which the knowledge of children and adults of foods for oral health reflects dietary guideline advice, and the evidence base for foods associated with increased and decreased caries burdens. Using a novel card-sorting task, the participants categorised foods according to their knowledge of each food for oral health. There were no differences between children and adults in the categorisation of fresh, minimally processed foods. Fish, chicken, and red meat were categorised as healthy by significantly fewer children than adults. High-sugar foods were correctly characterised as unhealthy by nearly all participants. More children categorised breakfast cereals as healthy than adults. There were no statistically significant differences between children and adults for the categorisation of brown or wholegrain breads categorised as healthy. The alignment of the participants’ beliefs with dietary guideline recommendations suggests education through health promotion initiatives is successful in achieving knowledge acquisition in children and adults. However, recommendations to increase the intake of refined carbohydrates inadvertently advocate foods associated with increased caries burdens.
The Effect of a Peanut-Enriched Weight Loss Diet Compared to a Low-Fat Weight Loss Diet on Body Weight, Blood Pressure, and Glycemic Control: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Petersen Kristina S. , Murphy Jess , Whitbread Jane , Clifton Peter M. , Keogh Jennifer B.
Published: July 2022

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of consuming 35 g of peanuts prior to two main meals per day as part of a weight loss diet, compared to a traditional low-fat weight loss diet, on body weight, markers of glycemic control, and blood pressure in adults at risk of type 2 diabetes over 6 months. A two-arm randomized controlled trial was conducted. Adults (age > 18 years) with a BMI of >26 kg/m2 at risk of type 2 diabetes were randomized to the peanut group or the traditional low-fat-diet group (control). The peanut group was advised to consume 35 g of lightly salted dry-roasted peanuts prior to two main meals per day. Participants in the control group were given education to follow a low-fat diet. Both groups had dietetic counseling to restrict energy intake (women: <5500 kJ/1300 kcal/d; men: <7000 kJ/1700 kcal/d). Outcome assessment occurred at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. In total, 107 participants were randomized (65% female; mean age 58 ± 14 years, BMI 33 ± 5.4 kg/m2, waist circumference 109 ± 13 cm, AUSDRISK score 15 ± 5 points), and 76 participants completed the study. No between-group difference in body weight (primary outcome) was observed at 6 months (mean difference, −0.12 kg; 95% CI, −2.42, 2.18; p = 0.92). The mean weight loss at 6 months was 6.7 ± 5.1 kg in the cohort (visit p < 0.001). HbA1c, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, 2-h glucose, and HOMA-IR were not different between the groups. Systolic blood pressure was reduced to a greater extent in the peanut group vs. the control group at 6 months (−5.33 mmHg; 95% CI, −9.23, −1.43; p = 0.008). Intake of 35 g of peanuts prior to two main meals per day, in the context of an energy-restricted diet, resulted in weight loss comparable to a traditional low-fat weight loss diet without preloads. Greater systolic blood pressure reductions were observed with peanut intake, which may lower cardiovascular disease risk.
Global Trends in the Availability of Dietary Data in Low and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: de Quadros Victoria Padula , Balcerzak Agnieszka , Allemand Pauline , de Sousa Rita Ferreira , Bevere Teresa , Arsenault Joanne , Deitchler Megan , Holmes Bridget Anna
Published: July 2022

Individual-level quantitative dietary data can provide suitably disaggregated information to identify the needs of all population sub-groups, which can in turn inform agricultural, nutrition, food safety, and environmental policies and programs. The purpose of this discussion paper is to provide an overview of dietary surveys conducted in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) from 1980 to 2019, analyzing their key characteristics to understand the trends in dietary data collection across time. The present study analyzes the information gathered by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization Global Individual Food consumption data Tool (FAO/WHO GIFT). FAO/WHO GIFT is a growing repository of individual-level dietary data and contains information about dietary surveys from around the world, collected through published survey results, literature reviews, and direct contact with data owners. The analysis indicates an important increase in the number of dietary surveys conducted in LMICs in the past four decades and a notable increase in the number of national dietary surveys. It is hoped that this trend continues, together with associated efforts to validate and standardize the dietary methods used. The regular implementation of dietary surveys in LMICs is key to support evidence-based policies for improved nutrition.
Limiting Postpartum Weight Retention in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Women: Secondary Analysis of the HeLP-her Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chen Mingling , Lim Siew , Harrison Cheryce L.
Published: July 2022

Postpartum weight retention (PPWR) contributes to maternal obesity development and is more pronounced in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women. Our antenatal healthy lifestyle intervention (HeLP-her) demonstrated efficacy in reducing PPWR in non-Australian-born CALD women compared with Australian-born women. In this secondary analysis, we aimed to examine differences in the intervention effect on behavioral and psychosocial outcomes between Australian-born and non-Australian-born women and explore factors associated with the differential intervention effect on PPWR. Pregnant women at risk of gestational diabetes (Australian-born n = 86, non-Australian-born n = 142) were randomized to intervention (four lifestyle sessions) or control (standard antenatal care). PPWR was defined as the difference in measured weight between 6 weeks postpartum and baseline (12–15 weeks gestation). Behavioral (self-weighing, physical activity (pedometer), diet (fat-related dietary habits questionnaire), self-perceived behavior changes), and psychosocial (weight control confidence, exercise self-efficacy, eating self-efficacy) outcomes were examined by country of birth. Multivariable linear regression analysis was conducted to assess factors associated with PPWR. The intervention significantly increased self-weighing, eating self-efficacy, and self-perceived changes to diet and physical activity at 6 weeks postpartum in non-Australian-born women, compared with no significant changes observed among Australian-born women. Intervention allocation and decreased intake of snack foods were predictors of lower PPWR in non-Australian-born women. Results indicate that the HeLP-her intervention improved dietary behaviors, contributing to the reduction of PPWR in CALD women. Future translations could prioritize targeting diet while developing more effective strategies to increase exercise engagement during pregnancy in this population.
Free School Meal Improves Educational Health and the Learning Environment in a Small Municipality in Norway
Authors: Heim Greta , Thuestad Ruth Olaug , Molin Marianne , Brevik Asgeir
Published: July 2022

It has been suggested that school meals could have an impact on students’ learning environments; however, existing research in this field is scarce and inconclusive. The purpose of this study was to explore teachers’ and school administrators’ experiences with the introduction of a free school meal and whether this influenced the learning environment. The study was conducted in upper primary and lower secondary schools in a small municipality in Norway. In this qualitative study, 17 informants participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded using NVivo. Thematic analysis was conducted using systematic text condensation (STC). The main findings are that in the informants’ experience, a free school meal led to reduced absenteeism during lunchtime and positive social interactions among students, social equalization, and a more peaceful atmosphere during lunchtime. In conclusion, the introduction of a free school meal had a positive impact on the students’ educational health and the learning environment, and contributed to social equalization as all the students shared the same healthy school meal.
Undercarboxylated Osteocalcin: A Promising Target for Early Diagnosis of Cardiovascular and Glycemic Disorders in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: A Pilot Study
Authors: Riquelme-Gallego Blanca , García-Molina Laura , Cano-Ibáñez Naomi , Andújar-Vera Francisco , González-Salvatierra Sheila , García-Fontana Cristina , Bueno-Cavanillas Aurora , Muñoz-Torres Manuel , García-Fontana Beatriz
Published: July 2022

Lifestyle changes are causing an exponential increase in the prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) worldwide. The most frequent complications of these are the development of diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Accurate tools are needed to classify the cardiovascular risk (CVR) in the MetS population. In recent years, numerous biomarkers of bone metabolism have been associated with CVR. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) in a cohort of patients with MetS and to analyse its association with MetS parameters and CVR as well as with T2D prevalence. A longitudinal study was conducted in which a MetS population was followed for one year. Weight change, adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), ucOC levels, MetS parameters and CVR were analysed and CVR was calculated using different scores. Our results showed a decrease of CVR associated with a better adherence to the MetDiet resulting in higher HDL-C and ucOC levels though the improvement of MetS risk factors. This bone protein appeared as a potential biomarker to classify CVR in the MetS population, especially for MetS patients without prevalent T2D. Furthermore, ucOC serum levels could be good predictors of T2D prevalence.
Mediterranean Diet on Sleep: A Health Alliance
Authors: Scoditti Egeria , Tumolo Maria Rosaria , Garbarino Sergio
Published: July 2022

The Mediterranean diet is a plant-based, antioxidant-rich, unsaturated fat dietary pattern that has been consistently associated with lower rates of noncommunicable diseases and total mortality, so that it is considered one of the healthiest dietary patterns. Clinical trials and mechanistic studies have demonstrated that the Mediterranean diet and its peculiar foods and nutrients exert beneficial effects against inflammation, oxidative stress, dysmetabolism, vascular dysfunction, adiposity, senescence, cognitive decline, neurodegeneration, and tumorigenesis, thus preventing age-associated chronic diseases and improving wellbeing and health. Nocturnal sleep is an essential physiological function, whose alteration is associated with health outcomes and chronic diseases. Scientific evidence suggests that diet and sleep are related in a bidirectional relationship, and the understanding of this association is important given their role in disease prevention. In this review, we surveyed the literature concerning the current state of evidence from epidemiological studies on the impact of the Mediterranean diet on nighttime sleep quantity and quality. The available studies indicate that greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with adequate sleep duration and with several indicators of better sleep quality. Potential mechanisms mediating the effect of the Mediterranean diet and its foods and nutrients on sleep are described, and gap-in-knowledge and new research agenda to corroborate findings are discussed.
Health-Promoting and Therapeutic Attributes of Milk-Derived Bioactive Peptides
Authors: Samtiya Mrinal , Samtiya Sweta , Badgujar Prarabdh C. , Puniya Anil Kumar , Dhewa Tejpal , Aluko Rotimi E.
Published: July 2022

Milk-derived bioactive peptides (BAPs) possess several potential attributes in terms of therapeutic capacity and their nutritional value. BAPs from milk proteins can be liberated by bacterial fermentation, in vitro enzymatic hydrolysis, food processing, and gastrointestinal digestion. Previous evidence suggested that milk protein-derived BAPs have numerous health-beneficial characteristics, including anti-cancerous activity, anti-microbial activity, anti-oxidative, anti-hypertensive, lipid-lowering, anti-diabetic, and anti-osteogenic. In this literature overview, we briefly discussed the production of milk protein-derived BAPs and their mechanisms of action. Milk protein-derived BAPs are gaining much interest worldwide due to their immense potential as health-promoting agents. These BAPs are now used to formulate products sold in the market, which reflects their safety as natural compounds. However, enhanced commercialization of milk protein-derived BAPs depends on knowledge of their particular functions/attributes and safety confirmation using human intervention trials. We have summarized the therapeutic potentials of these BAPs based on data from in vivo and in vitro studies.
COVID-19 as Another Trigger for HBV Reactivation: Clinical Case and Review of Literature
Authors: Sagnelli Caterina , Montella Laura , Grimaldi Pierantonio , Pisaturo Mariantonietta , Alessio Loredana , De Pascalis Stefania , Sagnelli Evangelista , Coppola Nicola
Published: July 2022

Universal hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination has been applied for years in most countries, but HBV infection remains an unresolved public health problem worldwide, with over one-third of the world’s population infected during their lifetime and approximately 248 million hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) chronic carriers. HBV infection may reactivate with symptomatic and sometimes life-threatening clinical manifestations due to a reduction in the immune response of various origins, due to chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy, treatments increasingly practiced worldwide. SARS-CoV-2 and its COVID-19 associated disease have introduced new chances for HBV reactivation due to the use of dexamethasone and tocilizumab to counteract the cytokine storm. This could and should be prevented by accurate screening of HBV serologic markers and adequate pharmacologic prophylaxis. This article describes the case of a patient with COVID-19 who developed HBV reactivation and died of liver failure and analyzes published data on this setting to provide useful information to physicians who manage these patients during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
Variability among the Isolates of Broad Bean Mottle Virus and Encapsidation of Host RNAs
Authors: Shrestha Nipin , Duvall Melvin R. , Bujarski Jozef J.
Published: July 2022

Broad bean mottle bromovirus infects legume plants and is transmissible by insects. Several broad bean mottle virus (BBMV) isolates have been identified, including one in England (isolate Ba) and five in the Mediterranean countries: Libya (LyV), Morocco (MV), Syria (SV), Sudan (TU) and Tunisia (TV). Previously, we analyzed the nucleotide sequence of the Ba RNA and here we report on and compare it with another five Mediterranean variants. The RNA segments in the latter ones were extensively homologous, with some SNPs, single nucleotide deletions and insertions, while the number of mutations was higher in isolate Ba. Both the 5′ and 3′ untranslated terminal regions (UTRs) among the corresponding RNAs are highly conserved, reflecting their functionality in virus replication. The AUG initiation codons are within suboptimal contexts, possibly to adjust/regulate translation. The proteins 1a, 2a, 3a and coat protein (CP) are almost identical among the five isolates, but in Ba they have more amino acid (aa) substitutions. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the isolates from Morocco and Syria clustering with the isolate from England, while the variants from Libya, Tunisia and Sudan created a different clade. The BBMV isolates encapsidate a high content of host (ribosomal and messenger) RNAs. Our studies present BBMV as a useful model for bromoviruses infecting legumes.
Novel p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Inhibitor Reverses Hypoxia-Induced Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Rats
Authors: Silva Grazielle Fernandes , da Silva Jaqueline Soares , de Alencar Allan Kardec Nogueira , de Moraes Carvalho da Silva Marina , Montagnoli Tadeu Lima , de Souza Rocha Bruna , de Freitas Rosana Helena Coimbra Nogueira , Sudo Roberto Takashi , Fraga Carlos Alberto Manssour , Zapata-Sudo Gisele
Published: July 2022

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling is strongly implicated in cardiovascular remodeling in pulmonary hypertension (PH) and right ventricle (RV) failure. The effects of a newly designed p38 inhibitor, LASSBio-1824, were investigated in experimentally induced PH. Male Wistar rats were exposed to hypoxia and SU5416 (SuHx), and normoxic rats were used as controls. Oral treatment was performed for 14 days with either vehicle or LASSBio-1824 (50 mg/kg). Pulmonary vascular resistance and RV structure and function were assessed by echocardiography and catheterization. Histological, immunohistochemical and Western blot analysis of lung and RV were performed to investigate cardiovascular remodeling and inflammation. Treatment with LASSBio-1824 normalized vascular resistance by attenuating vessel muscularization and endothelial dysfunction. In the heart, treatment decreased RV systolic pressure, hypertrophy and collagen content, improving cardiac function. Protein content of TNF-α, iNOS, phosphorylated p38 and caspase-3 were reduced both in lung vessels and RV tissues after treatment and a reduced activation of transcription factor c-fos was found in cardiomyocytes of treated SuHx rats. Therefore, LASSBio-1824 represents a potential candidate for remodeling-targeted treatment of PH.
Naturally Occurring 8ß,13ß-kaur-15-en-17-al and Anti-Malarial Activity from Podocarpus polystachyus Leaves
Authors: Amir Rawa Mira Syahfriena , Al-Thiabat Mohammad G. , Nogawa Toshihiko , Futamura Yushi , Okano Akiko , Wahab Habibah A.
Published: July 2022

Despite much interest and studies toward the genus Podocarpus, the anti-malarial evaluation of Podocarpus polystachyus’s phytoconstituents remains lacking. Herein, the phytoconstituents of P. polystachyus leaves and their anti-malarial effect against Plasmodium falciparum were investigated for the first time. One new natural product, 8ß,13ß-kaur-15-en-17-al (1), along with three known compounds, 8ß,13ß-kaur-15-en-17-ol (2) and 13ß-kaur-16-ene (3), and α-tocopherol hydroquinone (4) were isolated via HR-ESI-MS and NMR analyses. Compounds 1 and 2 inhibited P. falciparum growth at 12 and 52 µM of IC50, respectively. Their anti-malarial activity was associated with the in silico P. falciparum lactate dehydrogenase (PfLDH) inhibition. Molecular docking of ligands 1 and 2 with the putative target PfLDH revealed ~−2 kcal/mol of binding energies more negative than the control. Molecular dynamic simulations (100 ns) showed equal or smaller deviation values (RMSD, RMSF, Rg) and stronger interactions of PfLDH-1 and PfLDH-2 complexes via at least one consistent H-bond than the control. Additionally, a slightly increased PfLDH H-bond profile in their interactions improved the PfLDH dynamic and structural stabilities. Overall, this study supports the relevance of 1 and 2 as plasmodial growth inhibitors with their putative anti-PfLDH activity, which could be a potential scaffold for developing anti-malarial drugs.
Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Properties of the Genus Blechnum—A Narrative Review
Authors: Waswa Emmanuel Nyongesa , Muema Felix Wambua , Odago Wyclif Ochieng , Mutinda Elizabeth Syowai , Nanjala Consolata , Mkala Elijah Mbandi , Amenu Sarah Getachew , Ding Shi-Xiong , Li Jing , Hu Guang-Wan
Published: July 2022

Blechnum L. is a genus belonging to the Blechnaceae family with 236 accepted species that grow in intertropical, subtropical, and southern temperate regions. Several species of the genus have long been used in folk medicines to treat a broad spectrum of ailments, including typhoid, urinary infections, influenza, wounds, pulmonary complaints, blisters, boils, and antihelmintic-related complications. So far, about 91 chemical compounds have been isolated from different parts of 20 Blechnum species. Among these metabolites, phenolic compounds, sterols, and fatty acids are the main constituents. Modern pharmacological investigations revealed several isolated compounds and extracts to exhibit exceptional biological properties including the antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, insecticidal, antitrematocidal and wound healing. In various tests, both quercetin-7′,3′,4′-trimethoxy and phytol metabolites showed potential antioxidant and antitrematocidal properties, while ponasterone exhibited insecticidal activity. Despite having a broad range of traditional medicinal benefits and biological properties, understanding the scientific connotations based on the available data is still challenging. This article presents a comprehensive review of the traditional uses, phytochemical compounds, and pharmacological aspects of the Blechnum species.
The Synergistic Inhibition of Coronavirus Replication and Induced Cytokine Production by Ciclesonide and the Tylophorine-Based Compound Dbq33b
Authors: Lee Yue-Zhi , Hsu Hsing-Yu , Yang Cheng-Wei , Lin Yi-Ling , Chang Sui-Yuan , Yang Ruey-Bing , Liang Jian-Jong , Chao Tai-Ling , Liao Chun-Che , Kao Han-Chieh , Chang Jang-Yang , Sytwu Huey-Kang , Chen Chiung-Tong , Lee Shiow-Ju
Published: July 2022

Ciclesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid used to treat asthma and has been repurposed as a treatment for mildly ill COVID-19 patients, but its precise mechanism of action is unclear. Herein, we report that ciclesonide blocks the coronavirus-induced production of the cytokines IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-1 by increasing IκBα protein levels and significantly decreasing p65 nuclear translocation. Furthermore, we found that the combination of ciclesonide and dbq33b, a potent tylophorine-based coronavirus inhibitor that affects coronavirus-induced NF-κB activation a little, additively and synergistically decreased coronavirus-induced IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-1 cytokine levels, and synergistically inhibited the replication of both HCoV-OC43 and SARS-CoV-2. Collectively, the combination of ciclesonide and dbq33b merits consideration as a treatment for COVID-19 patients who may otherwise be overwhelmed by high viral loads and an NF-κB-mediated cytokine storm.
Effects of Lipid Shape and Interactions on the Conformation, Dynamics, and Curvature of Ultrasound-Responsive Liposomes
Authors: Lee Hwankyu , Moon Hyungwon , Kim Hyun-Ryoung
Published: July 2022

We perform coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations of bilayers composed of various lipids and cholesterol at their different ratios. Simulations show that cholesterol-lipid interactions restrict the lateral dynamics of bilayers but also promote bilayer curvature, indicating that these opposite effects simultaneously occur and thus cannot significantly influence bilayer stability. In contrast, lyso-lipids effectively pack the vacancy in the bilayer composed of cone-shaped lipids and thus reduce bilayer dynamics and curvature, showing that bilayers are more significantly stabilized by lyso-lipids than by cholesterol, in agreement with experiments. In particular, the bilayer composed of cone-shaped lipids shows higher dynamics and curvature than does the bilayer composed of cylindrical-shaped lipids. To mimic ultrasound, a high external pressure was applied in the direction of bilayer normal, showing the formation of small pores that are surrounded by hydrophilic lipid headgroups, which can allow the release of drug molecules encapsulated into the liposome. These findings help to explain experimental observations regarding that liposomes are more significantly stabilized by lyso-lipids than by cholesterol, and that the liposome with cone-shaped lipids more effectively releases drug molecules upon applying ultrasound than does the liposome with cylindrical-shaped lipids.
Unraveling the Antibiofilm Activity of a New Nanogold Resin for Dentures and Epithesis
Authors: Ivanovic Vera , Popovic Danica , Petrovic Sanja , Rudolf Rebeka , Majerič Peter , Lazarevic Milos , Djordjevic Igor , Lazic Vojkan , Radunovic Milena
Published: July 2022

Dentures and epitheses are mostly made from poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), which does not show antimicrobial properties. They present reservoirs of microorganisms grown in biofilms. The aim of this study is to prepare a PMMA enriched with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)-PMMA/AuNPs and the examination of its physical, mechanical and antimicrobial properties. The AuNPS were synthetized from HAuCl4 using the ultrasonic spray pyrolysis method with lyophilization. The PMMA/AuNP samples were compared to PMMA samples. Density was measured by pycnometer. Microhardness was evaluated using the Vickers hardness test. Monomicrobial biofilm formation (Streptococcus mitis, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli) was measured by colony-forming units (CFUs) and MTT test and visualized by SEM. AuNP release was measured indirectly (the CFUs of the medium around the sample). The density and microhardness of the PMMA/AuNPs were similar to those of the PMMA. CFU and MTT values for the biofilms formed on the PMMA for each of the tested species were higher than those of the biofilms formed on the PMMA/AuNPs. The CFUs of the medium around the sample were similar for both materials. PMMA/AuNPs showed a significant reduction in the monomicrobial biofilms of all tested species. AuNPs are not released from PMMA/AuNPs. Density, indirect measurement of residual monomer and dentures weight were similar between PMMA and PMMA/AuNPs. Microhardness, as a measure of the wear resistance, was also similar between tested discs.
Quality Control Dissolution Data Is Biopredictive for a Modified Release Ropinirole Formulation: Virtual Experiment with the Use of Re-Developed and Verified PBPK Model
Authors: Shuklinova Olha , Dorożyński Przemysław , Kulinowski Piotr , Polak Sebastian
Published: July 2022

Physiologically based pharmacokinetic and absorption modeling are being used by industry and regulatory bodies to address various scientifically challenging questions. While there is high confidence in the prediction of exposure for the BCS class I drugs administered as immediate-release formulations, in the case of prolonged-release formulations, special attention should be given to the input dissolution data. Our goal was to develop and verify a PBPK model for a BCS class I compound, ropinirole, and check the biopredictiveness of the dissolution data for the prolonged-release formulation administered by Parkinson’s patients. The model was built based on quality control dissolution data reported in the certificates of analysis and verified with the use of data derived from five clinical trial reports. The simulated pharmacokinetic parameters being within a two-fold range of the observed values confirmed acceptable model performance, in vivo relevance of the in vitro dissolution profiles, and indirectly indicated ropinirole stable release from the formulation in the patients’ gastro-intestinal tract. Ropinirole PBPK model will be used for exploring potential clinical scenarios while developing a new formulation.
New Advances in the Understanding of Proteases as Diagnostic and Pharmaceutical Targets in Homeostatic and Pathologic Conditions
Authors: Zamyatnin Andrey A. , Parodi Alessandro
Published: July 2022

Protease biology represents a hot topic in biomedical research because of their pivotal role in regulating cell and tissue homeostasis, regeneration and pathogenesis [...]
Preferences of Healthcare Professionals on 3D-Printed Tablets: A Pilot Study
Authors: Goh Odelia , Goh Wei , Lim Seng , Hoo Grace , Liew Raymond , Ng Tat
Published: July 2022

An inaugural study was performed to understand the perceptions of healthcare professionals toward the potential benefits of 3D printing in Singapore. This study sought to increase awareness of 3D printing applications for viable clinical applications and to elucidate the current gaps in therapy where 3D printing could play a role. A common example would be the use of 3D printing to manufacture polypills, thereby reducing the daily pill burden of patients and possibly improving medication adherence. A qualitative descriptive survey with a single-centered cross-sectional design was performed at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, a tertiary referral hospital with 1700 beds. This study had a total of 55 respondents comprising doctors and pharmacists. Most of the respondents viewed the 3D printing of oral dosage forms favorably and agreed about the potential advantages this technology could offer. More than 60% of the respondents were also willing to prescribe 3D printed tablets to patients. Respondents’ concerns were grouped into three main categories: formulation considerations, manufacturing processes, and administrative issues. Viewed in its entirety, this study provides a valuable starting point for understanding the perceptions of healthcare professionals in adopting 3D printing technology.
Holographic Tailoring of Structured Light Field with Digital Device
Authors: Wan Zhensong , Shi Zijian , Liu Qiang , Fu Xing
Published: July 2022

Structured light fields have attracted much attention due to rich spatial degrees of freedom. The tailoring of an arbitrary structured light field on demand is the precondition for the application of structured light. Therefore, the computer holography method used to reconstruct a coherent light field wavefront has been naturally applied for generating structured light. In this work, we comprehensively demonstrate the principles and procedures of pure-phase computer-generated holography (PP-CGH) and binary-amplitude computer-generated holography (BA-CGH) methods for tailoring structured light, realized by two digitally programmable devices: liquid-crystal spatial light modulators (Lc-SLM) and digital micromirror devices (DMD), respectively. Moreover, we first compare the two approaches in detail and clarify the recipe to obtain a high tailoring accuracy and efficiency, which will help researchers to better understand and utilize the holographic tailoring of structured optical fields.
“Parasitic Weeds: Biology and Control” Special Issue Editors Summary
Authors: Dor Evgenia , Goldwasser Yaakov
Published: July 2022

We are happy to summarize this important Special Issue (SI) of MDPI Plants—“Parasitic Weeds: Biology and Control” [...]