bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Outcome of COVID-19 Lockdown on Changes in Body Mass Index and Lifestyle among Croatian Schoolchildren: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kenđel Jovanović Gordana , Dragaš Zubalj Nataša , Klobučar Majanović Sanja , Rahelić Dario , Rahelić Valentina , Vučak Lončar Jelena , Pavičić Žeželj Sandra
Published: October 2021

Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic altered adults’ and children’s lifestyles and habits, causing an increase in body weight. Adolescents are sensitive to habit changes and, because of their insufficient capacity to deal with the unexpected COVID-19 changes, were at greater risk of noncommunicable disease development due to the consequences of adopting unhealthy habits. The survey aimed to reveal the changes in nutritional status and lifestyle habits of school children in Croatia and to assess their nutrition knowledge and emotional state and feelings about COVID-19 lockdown. Self-reported data from 1370 school children aged 10 to 15 years were obtained to examine the influence of the lockdown on their nutritional status, lifestyle and emotional status, and to assess their nutrition knowledge. The study revealed that the COVID-19 lockdown has caused an increase in the proportion of overweight and obesity among Croatian school children who changed their lifestyle habits towards being less physically active, spending more time using screen-based media and revealing potential psychological distress. However, the schoolchildren had a high adherence to the Mediterranean diet assessed with the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for children and adolescents KIDMED index and had good nutrition knowledge. Public health programs promoting a healthy lifestyle and involving the whole family, in a school environment, could provide children with a healthy adulthood.
Validation of a Web-Based, Time-Use Application to Assess Children’s School Meal Intakes: My E-Diary for Activities and Lifestyle (MEDAL)
Authors: Tan Sarah Yi Xuan , Chia Airu , Sugianto Ray , Tong Huiying Eunice , Ang Ian Yi Han , Shek Lynette Pei-Chi , Saw Seang Mei , Müller-Riemenschneider Falk , Chong Mary Foong-Fong
Published: October 2021

My E-Diary for Activities and Lifestyle (MEDAL), a web-based application, was developed to assess the diets of children. This study examined the validity of school recess meals reported by children on MEDAL, using meal photography as the reference. Recess meals were photographed by trained researchers, and food items and portion sizes of recess meals reported on MEDAL were compared to recess meal photos. Validity was assessed by percentages of match, omission and intrusion for food items and percentages of the match, underestimation and overestimation for portion sizes. The Mann–Whitney test and the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test examined if sex, school and day of recording influenced the validity of food item reporting. We found that participants (n = 33, aged 10–11 years) recalled 60.2% of food items consumed at recess accurately (matches); omissions (24.6%) were more common than intrusions (15.2%). Omissions tended to be side dishes, and intrusions tended to be high-calorie items. Sex, school and day of recording did not influence validity. For food portion sizes, 58.3% of items were accurately reported. Overestimations (33.3%) were more common than underestimations (8.3%). In conclusion, these children were able to report food items consumed during school recess meals using MEDAL, albeit with limitations on the degree of accuracy.
Maternal Diet, Infection, and Risk of Cord Blood Inflammation in the Bangladesh Projahnmo Pregnancy Cohort
Authors: Lee Anne CC , Cherkerzian Sara , Olson Ingrid E , Ahmed Salahuddin , Chowdhury Nabidul Haque , Khanam Rasheda , Rahman Sayedur , Andrews Chloe , Baqui Abdullah H , Fawzi Wafaie , Inder Terrie E , Nartey Stephanie , Nelson Charles A , Oken Emily , Sen Sarbattama , Fichorova Raina
Published: October 2021

Inflammation may adversely affect early human brain development. We aimed to assess the role of maternal nutrition and infections on cord blood inflammation. In a pregnancy cohort in Sylhet, Bangladesh, we enrolled 251 consecutive pregnancies resulting in a term livebirth from July 2016–March 2017. Stillbirths, preterm births, and cases of neonatal encephalopathy were excluded. We prospectively collected data on maternal diet (food frequency questionnaire) and morbidity, and analyzed umbilical cord blood for interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and C-reactive protein. We determined associations between nutrition and infection exposures and cord cytokine elevation (≥75% vs. <75%) using logistic regression, adjusting for confounders. One-third of mothers were underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2) at enrollment. Antenatal and intrapartum infections were observed among 4.8% and 15.9% of the sample, respectively. Low pregnancy intakes of B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, B9 (folate)), fat-soluble vitamins (D, E), iron, zinc, and linoleic acid (lowest vs. middle tertile) were associated with higher risk of inflammation, particularly IL-8. There was a non-significant trend of increased risk of IL-8 and IL-6 elevation with history of ante-and intrapartum infections, respectively. In Bangladesh, improving micronutrient intake and preventing pregnancy infections are targets to reduce fetal systemic inflammation and associated adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Early-Life Respiratory Infections in Infants with Cow’s Milk Allergy: An Expert Opinion on the Available Evidence and Recommendations for Future Research
Authors: Fiocchi Alessandro , Knol Jan , Koletzko Sibylle , O’Mahony Liam , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Salminen Seppo , Szajewska Hania , Nowak-Węgrzyn Anna
Published: October 2021

Acute respiratory infections are a common cause of morbidity in infants and young children. This high rate of respiratory infections in early life has a major impact on healthcare resources and antibiotic use, with the associated risk of increasing antibiotic resistance, changes in intestinal microbiota composition and activity and, consequently, on the future health of children. An international group of clinicians and researchers working in infant nutrition and cow’s milk allergy (CMA) met to review the available evidence on the prevalence of infections in healthy infants and in those with allergies, particularly CMA; the factors that influence susceptibility to infection in early life; links between infant feeding, CMA and infection risk; and potential strategies to modulate the gut microbiota and infection outcomes. The increased susceptibility of infants with CMA to infections, and the reported potential benefits with prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics with regard to improving infection outcomes and reducing antibiotic usage in infants with CMA, makes this a clinically important issue that merits further research.
Measuring Skin Carotenoids Using Reflection Spectroscopy in a Low-Income School Setting
Authors: Jones Anna M. , Keihner Angie , Mills MaryAnn , MkNelly Barbara , Khaira Kamaljeet K. , Pressman Jona , Scherr Rachel E.
Published: October 2021

Dietary behavior change is difficult to accurately measure in a low-income youth population. Objective tools to measure fruit and vegetable consumption without relying on self-report present the opportunity to do this with less respondent burden and bias. A promising tool for quantifying fruit and vegetable consumption via proxy is skin carotenoids as measured by reflection spectroscopy through a device called the Veggie Meter®. To assess whether the Veggie Meter® is able to detect changes in skin carotenoids as a proxy for fruit and vegetable consumption in a low-income school setting, skin carotenoid measurements were collected at three time points, along with student level demographics, anthropometric measurements, and nutrition knowledge. A secondary goal of this study was to refine the protocol to be used based on researcher observations. Repeated measures analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons indicate that there was a significant difference in VM scores over the course of the study (F(2, 68) = 6.63, p = 0.002), with an increase in skin carotenoids from Fall 2018 to Spring 2019 (p = 0.005). This increase was sustained over the summer months when measured in Fall 2019. Changes to the protocol included the addition of a hand cleaning step and using the non-dominant ring finger for data collection. With these refinements, the results demonstrate that the Veggie Meter® is usable as a non-invasive tool for measuring fruit and vegetable consumption in a population that is traditionally difficult to assess.
The Relationships between Water Intake and Hydration Biomarkers and the Applications for Assessing Adequate Total Water Intake among Young Adults in Hebei, China
Authors: Zhang Jianfen , Ma Guansheng , Du Songming , Zhang Na
Published: October 2021

Water is an essential nutrient for humans. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 159 young adults aged 18–23 years in Hebei, China. The total drinking fluids and water from food were obtained by 7-day 24 h fluid intake questionnaires and the duplicate portion method, respectively. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were performed to determine the relationship between fluid intake and 24 h urinary biomarkers and plasma biomarkers. A multivariable partial least squares (PLS) model was used to identify the key predictors in modeling the total water intake (TWI) with 24 h urine biomarkers. Logistic regressions of the TWI against binary variables were performed, and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was analyzed to determine the cutoff value of the TWI for the optimal hydration status and dehydration without adjustments to favor either the sensitivity or specificity. In total, 156 participants (80 males and 76 females) completed the study. Strong relationships were found between the total drinking fluids, TWI, and 24 h urine biomarkers among young adults, especially for the 24 h urine volume (r = 0.784, p < 0.001; r = 0.747, p < 0.001) and osmolality (r = −0.589, p < 0.001; r = −0.477, p < 0.001), respectively. As for the FMU and plasma biomarkers, no strong relationships were found. The percentages of the variance in TWI explained by the PLS model with 13 urinary biomarkers were 66.9%. The optimal TWI values for assessing the optimal hydration and dehydration were 2892 mL and 2482 mL for young males, respectively, and 2139 mL and 1507 mL for young females, respectively. Strong relationships were found between the TWI, total drinking fluids, and 24 h urine biomarkers, but not with the FMU and plasma biomarkers, among young adults, including males and females. The 24 h urine biomarkers were more sensitive than the first morning urinary biomarkers in reflecting the fluid intake. The TWI was a reliable index for assessing the hydration statuses for young adults in free-living conditions.
Dietary Protein Intake Dynamics in Elderly Chinese from 1991 to 2018
Authors: Ouyang Yifei , Tan Tingyi , Song Xiaoyun , Huang Feifei , Zhang Bing , Ding Gangqiang , Wang Huijun
Published: October 2021

Unique rapid urbanization-related changes in China may affect the dietary protein intake of the aging population. We aimed to evaluate trends in dietary protein intake and major food sources of protein and estimate conformity to the dietary reference intakes (DRIs) in the elderly Chinese population. A sample of 10,854 elderly adults aged 60 years or older, drawn from 10 waves of the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) between 1991 and 2018, was included. Protein intake data were obtained on the basis of 3-day, 24 h dietary recalls. The dietary protein intake among elderly Chinese individuals declined from 63.3 g/day to 57.8 g/day over the 28-year period, with a −0.032 ± 0.0001 g/day change per year (p < 0.05). There was a significant increase in the proportion of subjects with a protein intake level below the estimated averaged requirement (EAR) and a reduction in the proportion of subjects consuming protein above the recommended nutrient intake (RNI) across all population subgroups. Cereals ranked as the major sources of dietary protein, although their contribution to dietary protein gradually decreased as time went on. The contribution from meat steadily rose from 18.2% in 1991 to 28.7% in 2018. The proportion of energy gained from fat increased notably, reaching 34.2% in 2018. The elderly Chinese population experienced a significant reduction in dietary protein intake. Although the transformation of dietary patterns had positive effects on improving protein quality due to increases in animal source food, some elderly Chinese individuals currently face the risk of inadequate dietary protein intake.
Colonic Medium-Chain Fatty Acids Act as a Source of Energy and for Colon Maintenance but Are Not Utilized to Acylate Ghrelin
Authors: Gregor András , Auernigg-Haselmaier Sandra , Trajanoski Slave , König Jürgen , Duszka Kalina
Published: October 2021

The capacity of microbiota to produce medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) and related consequences for the gastrointestinal (GI) tract have never been reported before. We verified the impact of nutrition-related factors on fatty acid (FAs) production and found that caloric restriction decreased levels of most of MCFAs in the mouse cecum, whereas overnight fasting reduced the levels of acetate and butyrate but increased propionate and laurate. A diet high in soluble fibre boosted the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and caproate whereas a high-cellulose diet did not have an effect or decreased the levels of some of the FAs. Rectal infusion of caprylate resulted in its rapid metabolism for energy production. Repeated 10-day MCFA infusion impacted epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) weight and lipid accumulation. Repeated infusion of caprylate rectally tended to increase the concentration of active ghrelin in mice plasma; however, this increase was not statistically significant. In Caco-2 cells, caprylate increased the expression of Fabp2, Pdk4, Tlr3, and Gpr40 genes as well as counteracted TNFα-triggered downregulation of Pparγ, Occludin, and Zonulin mRNA expression. In conclusion, we show that colonic MCFAs can be rapidly utilized as a source of energy or stored as a lipid supply. Further, locally produced caprylate may impact metabolism and inflammatory parameters in the colon.
Effect of Phytopreparations Based on Bioreactor-Grown Cell Biomass of Dioscorea deltoidea, Tribulus terrestris and Panax japonicus on Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Povydysh Maria N. , Titova Maria V. , Ivanov Igor M. , Klushin Andrey G. , Kochkin Dmitry V. , Galishev Boris A. , Popova Elena V. , Ivkin Dmitry Yu. , Luzhanin Vladimir G. , Krasnova Marina V. , Demakova Natalia V. , Nosov Alexander M.
Published: October 2021

In the present study, we explored the therapeutic potential of bioreactor-grown cell cultures of the medicinal plant species Dioscorea deltoidea, Tribulus terrestris and Panax japonicus to treat carbohydrate metabolism disorders (CMDs) in laboratory rats. In the adrenaline model of hyperglycemia, aqueous suspensions of cell biomass pre-administered at a dose of 100 mg dry biomass/kg significantly reduced glucose level in animal blood 1–2.5 h (D. deltoidea and T. terrestris) or 1 h (P. japonicus) after adrenaline hydrochloride administration. In a streptozotocin-induced model of type 2 diabetes mellitus, the cell biomass of D. deltoidea and T. terrestris acted towards normalization of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, as evidenced by a significant reduction of daily diuresis (by 39–57%), blood-glucose level (by 46–51%), blood content in urine (by 78–80%) and total cholesterol (25–36%) compared to animals without treatment. Bioactive secondary metabolites identified in the cell cultures and potentially responsible for their actions were deltoside, 25(S)-protodioscin and protodioscin in D. deltoidea; furostanol-type steroidal glycosides and quinic acid derivatives in T. terrestris; and ginsenosides and malonyl-ginsenosides in P. japonicus. These results evidenced for high potential of bioreactor-grown cell suspensions of these species for prevention and treatment of CMD, which requires further investigation.
Multiple Antitumor Molecular Mechanisms Are Activated by a Fully Synthetic and Stabilized Pharmaceutical Product Delivering the Active Compound Sulforaphane (SFX-01) in Preclinical Model of Human Glioblastoma
Authors: Colapietro Alessandro , Rossetti Alessandra , Mancini Andrea , Martellucci Stefano , Ocone Giuseppe , Pulcini Fanny , Biordi Leda , Cristiano Loredana , Mattei Vincenzo , Delle Monache Simona , Marampon Francesco , Gravina Giovanni , Festuccia Claudio
Published: October 2021

Frequent relapses and therapeutic resistance make the management of glioblastoma (GBM, grade IV glioma), extremely difficult. Therefore, it is necessary to develop new pharmacological compounds to be used as a single treatment or in combination with current therapies in order to improve their effectiveness and reduce cytotoxicity for non-tumor cells. SFX-01 is a fully synthetic and stabilized pharmaceutical product containing the α-cyclodextrin that delivers the active compound 1-isothiocyanato-4-methyl-sulfinylbutane (SFN) and maintains biological activities of SFN. In this study, we verified whether SFX-01 was active in GBM preclinical models. Our data demonstrate that SFX-01 reduced cell proliferation and increased cell death in GBM cell lines and patient-derived glioma initiating cells (GICs) with a stem cell phenotype. The antiproliferative effects of SFX-01 were associated with a reduction in the stemness of GICs and reversion of neural-to-mesenchymal trans-differentiation (PMT) closely related to epithelial-to-mesenchymal trans-differentiation (EMT) of epithelial tumors. Commonly, PMT reversion decreases the invasive capacity of tumor cells and increases the sensitivity to pharmacological and instrumental therapies. SFX-01 induced caspase-dependent apoptosis, through both mitochondrion-mediated intrinsic and death-receptor-associated extrinsic pathways. Here, we demonstrate the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through mediating the reduction in the activity of essential molecular pathways, such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR, ERK, and STAT-3. SFX-01 also reduced the in vivo tumor growth of subcutaneous xenografts and increased the disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS), when tested in orthotopic intracranial GBM models. These effects were associated with reduced expression of HIF1α which, in turn, down-regulates neo-angiogenesis. So, SFX-01 may have potent anti-glioma effects, regulating important aspects of the biology of this neoplasia, such as hypoxia, stemness, and EMT reversion, which are commonly activated in this neoplasia and are responsible for therapeutic resistance and glioma recurrence. SFX-01 deserves to be considered as an emerging anticancer agent for the treatment of GBM. The possible radio- and chemo sensitization potential of SFX-01 should also be evaluated in further preclinical and clinical studies.
Towards Drug Repurposing in Cancer Cachexia: Potential Targets and Candidates
Authors: Santos Joana M. O. , Costa Alexandra C. , Dias Tânia R. , Satari Setareh , Costa e Silva Maria Paula , da Costa Rui M. Gil , Medeiros Rui
Published: October 2021

As a multifactorial and multiorgan syndrome, cancer cachexia is associated with decreased tolerance to antitumor treatments and increased morbidity and mortality rates. The current approaches for the treatment of this syndrome are not always effective and well established. Drug repurposing or repositioning consists of the investigation of pharmacological components that are already available or in clinical trials for certain diseases and explores if they can be used for new indications. Its advantages comparing to de novo drugs development are the reduced amount of time spent and costs. In this paper, we selected drugs already available or in clinical trials for non-cachexia indications and that are related to the pathways and molecular components involved in the different phenotypes of cancer cachexia syndrome. Thus, we introduce known drugs as possible candidates for drug repurposing in the treatment of cancer-induced cachexia.
Pongol Methyl Ether Inhibits Akt and Suppresses Cancer Stem Cell Phenotypes in Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Silapech Arnon , Racha Satapat , Aksorn Nithikoon , Lafauy Pennapa , Tungsukruthai Sucharat , Vinayanuwattikun Chanida , Sritularak Boonchoo , Chanvorachote Pithi
Published: October 2021

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are an important therapeutic target. The therapeutic agents targeting CSCs should lead to improved clinical outcomes. Here we have demonstrated the CSC-suppressing activity of pongol methyl ether (PME), a pure compound from Millettia erythrocalyx. Methods: CSC-suppressing effects were evaluated by spheroid formation assay and detection of CSC markers. The related CSC cell signals were evaluated by Western blot, immunofluorescence and molecular docking analysis. Proteins affected by PME treatment were subjected to bioinformatic analysis. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed by the Search Tool for Interactions of Chemicals (STITCH). The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) mapper were used to confirm the underlying pathways. Results: PME (5–25 µM) significantly suppressed the ability of lung cancer cells to form colonies, grow in an anchorage-independent manner and generate tumour spheroids. PME at 25 µM significantly decreased the CSC markers (CD133 and ALDH1A1) and pluripotent transcription factors (Oct4 and Nanog). Akt, the key upstream signal of CSC control, was significantly decreased by the PME treatment. The molecular docking indicated that PME was bound to Akt-1 with a binding affinity of −9.2 kcal/mol greater than the Akt-1 inhibitor (reference compound; CQW). The STITCH network identified a total of 15 proteins interacted in PPI networks, and Akt-1 was identified as a central protein. The KEGG mapper indicated that the selected CSC markers were mostly involved in the ‘signalling pathways regulating pluripotency of stem cells’ pathway map and Akt, Oct4 and Nanog were the regulatory proteins in the dominant pathway. In addition, PME (10–25 µM) can suppress spheroid formation and reduce CSC-specific marker expression in patient-derived primary lung cancer cells. Conclusions: Our study revealed a novel pharmacological effect and the underlying mechanism of PME that can attenuate CSC phenotypes in lung cancer cells and may be developed for lung cancer therapy.
Correlation between Biophysical Properties of Niosomes Elaborated with Chloroquine and Different Tensioactives and Their Transfection Efficiency
Authors: Sainz-Ramos Myriam , Villate-Beitia Ilia , Gallego Idoia , AL Qtaish Nuseibah , Menéndez Margarita , Lagartera Laura , Grijalvo Santiago , Eritja Ramón , Puras Gustavo , Pedraz José Luis
Published: October 2021

Lipid nanocarriers, such as niosomes, are considered attractive candidates for non-viral gene delivery due to their suitable biocompatibility and high versatility. In this work, we studied the influence of incorporating chloroquine in niosomes biophysical performance, as well as the effect of non-ionic surfactant composition and protocol of incorporation in their biophysical performance. An exhaustive comparative evaluation of three niosome formulations differing in these parameters was performed, which included the analysis of their thermal stability, rheological behavior, mean particle size, dispersity, zeta potential, morphology, membrane packing capacity, affinity to bind DNA, ability to release and protect the genetic material, buffering capacity and ability to escape from artificially synthesized lysosomes. Finally, in vitro biological studies were, also, performed in order to determine the compatibility of the formulations with biological systems, their transfection efficiency and transgene expression. Results revealed that the incorporation of chloroquine in niosome formulations improved their biophysical properties and the transfection efficiency, while the substitution of one of the non-ionic surfactants and the phase of addition resulted in less biophysical variations. Of note, the present work provides several biophysical parameters and characterization strategies that could be used as gold standard for gene therapy nanosystems evaluation.
A Non-Nutritive Feeding Intervention Alters the Expression of Efflux Transporters in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Mai Yang , Gavins Francesca K. H. , Dou Liu , Liu Jing , Taherali Farhan , Alkahtani Manal E. , Murdan Sudaxshina , Basit Abdul W. , Orlu Mine
Published: October 2021

Intestinal interactions with nutrients, xenobiotics and endogenous hormones can influence the expression of clinically relevant membrane transporters. These changes in the gastrointestinal (GI) physiology can in turn affect the absorption of numerous drug substrates. Several studies have examined the effect of food on intestinal transporters in male and female humans and animal models. However, to our knowledge no studies have investigated the influence of a non-nutritive fibre meal on intestinal efflux transporters and key sex and GI hormones. Here, we show that a fibre meal increased the acute expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), and multidrug-resistance-associated protein-2 (MRP2) in small intestinal segments in both male and female Wistar rats. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used for the protein quantification of efflux transporters and hormonal plasma concentration. In male rats, the fibre meal caused the plasma concentration of the GI hormone cholecystokinin (CCK) to increase by 75% and the sex hormone testosterone to decrease by 50%, whereas, in contrast, the housing food meal caused a decrease in CCK by 32% and testosterone saw an increase of 31%. No significant changes in the hormonal concentrations, however, were seen in female rats. A deeper understanding of the modulation of efflux transporters by sex, food intake and time can improve our understanding of inter- and intra-variability in the pharmacokinetics of drug substrates.
Glycyrrhizic Acid and Its Hydrolyzed Metabolite 18β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid as Specific Ligands for Targeting Nanosystems in the Treatment of Liver Cancer
Authors: Stecanella Luciano A. , Bitencourt Antonio P. R. , Vaz Gustavo Richter , Quarta Eride , Silva Júnior José O. C. , Rossi Alessandra
Published: October 2021

Glycyrrhizic acid and its hydrolyzed metabolite 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid, obtained from the plant Glycyrrhiza glabra, have numerous pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcerative, antiallergic, immunomodulatory, antiviral, antitumor, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant effects, and others. In addition to the pharmacological activities, in the 1980s, an interaction and uptake of these molecules by the liver was verified, which was later confirmed by other studies through the discovery of specific receptors in the hepatocytes. The presence of these specific receptors in the liver led to vectorization and delivery of drugs, by the introduction of glycyrrhizic acid or glycyrrhetinic acid on the surface of nanosystems, for the treatment of liver diseases. This review describes experimental evidence of vectorization by conjugating glycyrrhizic acid or glycyrrhetinic acid to nanosystems and delivery of antitumor drugs for the treatment of liver cancer and also describes the techniques used to perform this conjugation. We have shown that due to the existence of specific receptors for these molecules, in addition to the targeting of nanosystems to hepatocytes, nanosystems having glycyrrhizic acid or glycyrrhetinic acid on their surface had the same therapeutic effect in a significantly lower dose compared to the free drug and unconjugated nanosystems, with consequent reduction of side effects and toxicity.
Medical Applications of Metallic Bismuth Nanoparticles
Authors: Gomez Catherine , Hallot Gauthier , Laurent Sophie , Port Marc
Published: October 2021

Recent reviews described the efficient syntheses of metallic bismuth nanoparticles. Nevertheless, few studies have been published on the medical applications of these nanoparticles compared to the number of studies on the well-documented clinical use of the bismuth(III) complex. An analysis of the literature revealed the significant potential of metallic bismuth nanoparticles in different theranostic applications. In the diagnostic field, preclinical proofs of concept have been demonstrated for X-ray, photoacoustic and fluorescence imaging. In the therapeutic field, several preclinical studies have shown the potential of bismuth nanoparticles as X-ray radiosensitizers for use in radiotherapy and as photothermal agents for applications in near infrared phototherapy. The properties of these metallic bismuth nanoparticles as bactericidal, fungicidal, antiparasitic and antibiofilm agents have also been studied. Although information concerning the toxic effects of these nanoparticles has been collected, these data are insufficient when considering the immediate clinical use of these new nanoparticles.
Nanotechnology-Based Delivery Systems for Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Fadaka Adewale Oluwaseun , Sibuyi Nicole Remaliah Samantha , Madiehe Abram Madimabe , Meyer Mervin
Published: October 2021

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant threat to global health. The conventional antibiotic pool has been depleted, forcing the investigation of novel and alternative antimicrobial strategies. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have shown potential as alternative diagnostic and therapeutic agents in biomedical applications. To date, over 3000 AMPs have been identified, but only a fraction of these have been approved for clinical trials. Their clinical applications are limited to topical application due to their systemic toxicity, susceptibility to protease degradation, short half-life, and rapid renal clearance. To circumvent these challenges and improve AMP’s efficacy, different approaches such as peptide chemical modifications and the development of AMP delivery systems have been employed. Nanomaterials have been shown to improve the activity of antimicrobial drugs by providing support and synergistic effect against pathogenic microbes. This paper describes the role of nanotechnology in the targeted delivery of AMPs, and some of the nano-based delivery strategies for AMPs are discussed with a clear focus on metallic nanoparticle (MNP) formulations.
Membranous Extracellular Matrix-Based Scaffolds for Skin Wound Healing
Authors: Da Lin-Cui , Huang Yi-Zhou , Xie Hui-Qi , Zheng Bei-Hong , Huang Yong-Can , Du Sheng-Rong
Published: October 2021

Membranous extracellular matrix (ECM)-based scaffolds are one of the most promising biomaterials for skin wound healing, some of which, such as acellular dermal matrix, small intestinal submucosa, and amniotic membrane, have been clinically applied to treat chronic wounds with acceptable outcomes. Nevertheless, the wide clinical applications are always hindered by the poor mechanical properties, the uncontrollable degradation, and other factors after implantation. To highlight the feasible strategies to overcome the limitations, in this review, we first outline the current clinical use of traditional membranous ECM scaffolds for skin wound healing and briefly introduce the possible repair mechanisms; then, we discuss their potential limitations and further summarize recent advances in the scaffold modification and fabrication technologies that have been applied to engineer new ECM-based membranes. With the development of scaffold modification approaches, nanotechnology and material manufacturing techniques, various types of advanced ECM-based membranes have been reported in the literature. Importantly, they possess much better properties for skin wound healing, and would become promising candidates for future clinical translation.
Analytical Model for Bond Behavior Prediction of CFRP-Concrete Joints with End Anchorage
Authors: Dong Kun , Zhong Caiqun , Li Peng , Du Derun
Published: October 2021

Use of the end anchorages can significantly control the debonding of CFRP-to-concrete bond interface, and improve the bearing capacity of CFRP strengthened concrete member. An analytical model was presented in this paper to predict the bond behavior and debonding process of CFRP-concrete bonded joint with end anchorage. The calculation formulas of bond failure load and effective bond length for anchored CFRP-concrete joint are derived from the proposed analytical model. According to these models and formulas, the influence of different bond lengths on the mechanical behaviors during the debonding process was analyzed. Results show the load-slip curves of end anchored CFRP-concrete joints could be divided into three branches: elastic stage, stable stage, and enhancement stage. As the bond length increases, the plateau length in stable stage increases. Besides, the bond failure load decreased firstly to a lower limit and then increased with the increase of bond length. The effective bond length of CFRP-concrete joint with end anchorage was longer than that of the external bonded joint, and the value of effective bond length for end anchored joint shall be at least 7.2/AB, where the parameters A and B were related to the interfacial properties of bonded joint. Furthermore, a single shear test was carried out on the end anchored CFRP-concrete bonded joint with different bond lengths, to verify the consistency of the proposed model and formulas. The analytical result of load-slip response at the load end, as well as the strain distribution of CFRP material and the bond failure load, was compared with the experimental result. The comparisons showed that the analytical results had a good agreement with the experimental results.
Transformation of Oil Palm Waste-Derived Cellulose into Solid Polymer Electrolytes: Investigating the Crucial Role of Plasticizers
Authors: Abouloula Cheyma Naceur , Rizwan Muhammad. , Selvanathan Vidhya , Yahya Rosiyah , Althubeiti Khaled , Alkhammash Hend I. , Akhtaruzzaman Md. , Oueriagli A.
Published: October 2021

This study explores the possibility of transforming lignocellulose-rich agricultural waste materials into value-added products. Cellulose was extracted from an empty fruit bunch of oil palm and further modified into carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), a water-soluble cellulose derivative. The CMC was then employed as the polymeric content in fabrication of solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) films incorporated with lithium iodide. To enhance the ionic conductivity of the solid polymer electrolytes, the compositions were optimized with different amounts of glycerol as a plasticizing agent. The chemical and physical effects of plasticizer content on the film composition were studied by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. FTIR and XRD analysis confirmed the interaction plasticizer with the polymer matrix and the amorphous nature of fabricated SPEs. The highest ionic conductivity of 6.26 × 10−2 S/cm was obtained with the addition of 25 wt % of glycerol. By fabricating solid polymer electrolytes from oil palm waste-derived cellulose, the sustainability of the materials can be retained while reducing the dependence on fossil fuel-derived materials in electrochemical devices.
Effect of Eco-Friendly Peanut Shell Powder on the Chemical Resistance, Physical, Thermal, and Thermomechanical Properties of Unsaturated Polyester Resin Composites
Authors: Pączkowski Przemysław , Puszka Andrzej , Gawdzik Barbara
Published: October 2021

The paper investigates the synthesis of eco-friendly composites and their properties before and after immersion in solvents of different chemical natures. For their preparation, unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) based on recycled poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and peanut shell powder (PSP) were used. Polymerization was carried out in the presence of environmentally friendly polymeric cobalt. Distilled water, acetone, 10% hydrochloric acid, 40% sodium hydroxide, toluene, and 2% sodium carbonate were used as solvents in the chemical resistance test. Changes in the structure, properties, and appearance (morphology) of composites after 140 days of immersion in solvents were investigated. The results show that both the resin and its composites show resistance towards 10% HCl and toluene. The immersion in water has no significant effect on the resin, but for PSP composites, the plasticizing effect of water was observed. In acetone, after only one day, the resin and its composite with 10% PSP shrink and fall into pieces. However, the most destructive is an alkaline environment. After the immersion test, a huge increase in mass and a deterioration of gloss and thermomechanical properties were observed. The destructive influence of the 40% NaOH environment mainly concerned the resin.
Synthesis, Characterization and Application of Polypyrrole Functionalized Nanocellulose for the Removal of Cr(VI) from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Alsaiari Norah Salem , Katubi Khadijah Mohammedsaleh , Alzahrani Fatimah Mohammed , Amari Abdelfattah , Osman Haitham , Rebah Faouzi Ben , Tahoon Mohamed A.
Published: October 2021

Heavy metals are toxic substances that pose a real danger to humans and organisms, even at low concentration. Therefore, there is an urgent need to remove heavy metals. Herein, the nanocellulose (NC) was synthesized by the hydrolysis of cellulose using sulfuric acid, and then functionalized using polypyrrole (ppy) through a polymerization reaction to produce polypyrrole/nanocellulose (ppy/NC) nanocomposite. The synthesized nanocomposite was characterized using familiar techniques including XRD, FT-IR, SEM, TEM, and TGA. The obtained results showed a well-constructed nanocomposite with excellent thermal stability in the nano-sized scale. The adsorption experiments showed that the ppy/NC nanocomposite was able to adsorb hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). The optimum pH for the removal of the heavy metal was pH 2. The interfering ions showed minor effect on the adsorption of Cr(VI) resulted from the competition between ions for the adsorption sites. The adsorption kinetics were studied using pseudo 1st order and pseudo 2nd order models indicating that the pseudo second order model showed the best fit to the experimental data, signifying that the adsorption process is controlled by the chemisorption mechanism. Additionally, the nanocomposite showed a maximum adsorption capacity of 560 mg/g according to Langmuir isotherm. The study of the removal mechanism showed that Cr(VI) ions were removed via the reduction of high toxic Cr(VI) to lower toxic Cr(III) and the electrostatic attraction between protonated ppy and Cr(VI). Interestingly, the ppy/NC nanocomposite was reused for Cr(VI) uptake up to six cycles showing excellent regeneration results. Subsequently, Cr(VI) ions can be effectively removed from aqueous solution using the synthesized nanocomposite as reusable and cost-effective adsorbent.
Optimal Design of Accumulator Parameters for an Electro-Hydrostatic Actuator at Low Speed
Authors: Chen Gexin , Qiu Gengting , Yan Guishan , Zhang Tiangui , Liu Huilong , Chen Wenbin , Ai Chao
Published: October 2021

The electro-hydrostatic actuator (EHA) is a type of highly integrated, compact, closed pump control drive system composed of a servo motor, a metering pump, a hydraulic cylinder and other components. Compared with the traditional valve control system, the electro-hydrostatic actuator has the advantages of a high power-to-weight ratio, high integration, environmental friendliness, and superior efficiency and energy saving. However, due to the complex mechanical–hydraulic coupling mechanism of the system and the existence of non-linear multi-source disturbances, the dynamic and static performance of the system is limited, particularly the pressure pulsation phenomenon under low-speed conditions, which seriously affects the high precision control requirements of the system. In order to address the low-speed pressure pulsation problem of the electro-hydrostatic actuator, first, the mathematical models of the servo motor, metering pump and hydraulic cylinder are established, and the simulation model of the EHA system is created based on MATLAB/Simulink. Second, from aspects of the servo motor and the quantitative piston pump, the causes of the pressure pulsation under low-speed working conditions are analyzed, and the parameter selection method of the accumulator is proposed to eliminate the pressure pulsation based on ωn and ζ of the EHA system. Finally, the optimal charging pressure of the accumulator is simulated and experimentally analyzed. The simulation and experimental results show that the charging pressure range of the accumulator calculated with this method can effectively improve the pressure pulsation phenomenon of the EHA system under low-speed working conditions, and it plays a positive role in the engineering popularization and application of the EHA system.
Traditional Removable Partial Dentures versus Implant-Supported Removable Partial Dentures: A Retrospective, Observational Oral Health-Related Quality-of-Life Study
Authors: D’Addazio Gianmaria , Xhajanka Edit , Cerone Paolo , Santilli Manlio , Rexhepi Imena , Caputi Sergio , Sinjari Bruna
Published: October 2021

Removable partial dentures (RPD) are still a valid alternative for the restoration of missing teeth. Additionally, implant-supported removable partial dentures (ISRPD) represent a valid alternative as it allows to avoid the use of clasps and increase stability. The objective of this study was to evaluate through an OHIP-14 questionnaire the level of satisfaction and quality of life (QoL) of patients treated before RPD and then with ISRPD. Twenty patients were rehabilitated with traditional RPDs, and after one year the prosthesis was modified into ISRPD, by inserting an implant and a ball or locator attachment. At the end of both phases, patients completed the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) questionnaire. The collected data were statistically analyzed through the Wilcoxon U test, as overall OHIP score and difference between treatments. The mean of the OHIP summary (range from 0 to 56) in the RPD Group was 20.95 (±5.27). In the ISRPD Group it was 13.95 (±3.91), with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between the two Groups. The same findings were highlighted for the differences between groups in every domain question. Patients showed significant improvements after rehabilitation in all areas of investigation, stating how the transformation of a removable prosthesis into an implant-supported one can improve patients’ QoL with benefits in chewing ability, aesthetics and self-satisfaction.
Implementation of the Burned Area Component of the Copernicus Climate Change Service: From MODIS to OLCI Data
Authors: Lizundia-Loiola Joshua , Franquesa Magí , Boettcher Martin , Kirches Grit , Pettinari M. Lucrecia , Chuvieco Emilio
Published: October 2021

This article presents the burned area (BA) product of the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) of the European Commission. This product, named C3SBA10, is based on the adaptation to Sentinel-3 OLCI images of a BA algorithm developed within the Fire Climate Change Initiative (FireCCI) project, which used MODIS data. We first reviewed the adaptation process and then analysed the results of both products for common years (2017–2019). Comparisons were performed using four different grid sizes (0.05°, 0.10°, 0.25°, and 0.50°). Annual correlations between the two products ranged from 0.94 to 0.99. Global BA estimates were found to be more similar when the two Sentinel-3 satellites were active (2019), as the temporal resolution was closer to that of the MODIS sensor. Global validation was performed using reference data derived from Landsat-8 images, following a stratified random sampling design. The C3SBA10 showed commission errors between 16 and 21% and omission errors from 48 to 50%, similar to those found in the FireCCI product. The temporal reporting accuracy was also validated using 19 million active fires. In total, 87% of the detections were made within 10 days after the fire by both products. The high consistency between both products ensures global BA data provision from 2001 to the present. The datasets are freely available through the Copernicus Climate Data Store (CDS) repository.
Recognition of Sedimentary Rock Occurrences in Satellite and Aerial Images of Other Worlds—Insights from Mars
Authors: Edgett Kenneth S. , Sarkar Ranjan
Published: October 2021

Sedimentary rocks provide records of past surface and subsurface processes and environments. The first step in the study of the sedimentary rock record of another world is to learn to recognize their occurrences in images from instruments aboard orbiting, flyby, or aerial platforms. For two decades, Mars has been known to have sedimentary rocks; however, planet-wide identification is incomplete. Global coverage at 0.25–6 m/pixel, and observations from the Curiosity rover in Gale crater, expand the ability to recognize Martian sedimentary rocks. No longer limited to cases that are light-toned, lightly cratered, and stratified—or mimic original depositional setting (e.g., lithified deltas)—Martian sedimentary rocks include dark-toned examples, as well as rocks that are erosion-resistant enough to retain small craters as well as do lava flows. Breakdown of conglomerates, breccias, and even some mudstones, can produce a pebbly regolith that imparts a “smooth” appearance in satellite and aerial images. Context is important; sedimentary rocks remain challenging to distinguish from primary igneous rocks in some cases. Detection of ultramafic, mafic, or andesitic compositions do not dictate that a rock is igneous, and clast genesis should be considered separately from the depositional record. Mars likely has much more sedimentary rock than previously recognized.
A Preliminary Global Automatic Burned-Area Algorithm at Medium Resolution in Google Earth Engine
Authors: Roteta Ekhi , Bastarrika Aitor , Ibisate Askoa , Chuvieco Emilio
Published: October 2021

A preliminary version of a global automatic burned-area (BA) algorithm at medium spatial resolution was developed in Google Earth Engine (GEE), based on Landsat or Sentinel-2 reflectance images. The algorithm involves two main steps: initial burned candidates are identified by analyzing spectral changes around MODIS hotspots, and those candidates are then used to estimate the burn probability for each scene. The burning dates are identified by analyzing the temporal evolution of burn probabilities. The algorithm was processed, and its quality assessed globally using reference data from 2019 derived from Sentinel-2 data at 10 m, which involved 369 pairs of consecutive images in total located in 50 20 × 20 km2 areas selected by stratified random sampling. Commissions were around 10% with both satellites, although omissions ranged between 27 (Sentinel-2) and 35% (Landsat), depending on the selected resolution and dataset, with highest omissions being in croplands and forests; for their part, BA from Sentinel-2 data at 20 m were the most accurate and fastest to process. In addition, three 5 × 5 degree regions were randomly selected from the biomes where most fires occur, and BA were detected from Sentinel-2 images at 20 m. Comparison with global products at coarse resolution FireCCI51 and MCD64A1 would seem to show to a reliable extent that the algorithm is procuring spatially and temporally coherent results, improving detection of smaller fires as a consequence of higher-spatial-resolution data. The proposed automatic algorithm has shown the potential to map BA globally using medium-spatial-resolution data (Sentinel-2 and Landsat) from 2000 onwards, when MODIS satellites were launched.