bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Energy Valorization of Disposable Masks via Thermochemical Processes: Devolatilization Tests and Simulation Approach
Authors: Foffi Rachele , Savuto Elisa , Stante Matteo , Mancini Roberta , Gallucci Katia
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the use of medical protective equipment, including face masks, to protect the individual from the virus. This work studies the feasibility of using these materials as fuel for thermochemical processes for the production of syngas. A preliminary physic-chemical characterization was made by means of moisture and ash determination, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray fluorescence. Afterward, pyrolysis and gasification tests were executed in a laboratory-scale fluidized bed reactor with chirurgical and FFP2 masks investigating four temperature levels and three different operating conditions (fluidizing agents and dry/wet sample). A qualitative and quantitative analysis of condensable aromatic hydrocarbons in the produced gas, collected during the test campaign, was performed employing a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer. The experimental data from the tests were used to propose a hybrid approach to simulate the gasification process, based on experimental laws for the devolatilization step and a thermodynamic equilibrium approach for char gasification. The resulting data were compared with a thermodynamic equilibrium model, showing that the new approach captures non-equilibrium effects always present in real gasifiers operation.
Social Grouping Algorithm Aided Maximum Power Point Tracking Scheme for Partial Shaded Photovoltaic Array
Authors: Vadivel Srinivasan , Sengodan Boopathi C. , Ramasamy Sridhar , Ahsan Mominul , Haider Julfikar , Rodrigues Eduardo M. G.
Published: March 2022

Photovoltaic (PV) systems-based energy generation is relatively easy to install, even at a large scale, because it is scalable in size and is thus easy to transport. Harnessing maximum power is only possible if maximum power tracking (MPPT) functionality is available as part of the power converter control that interfaces the PV panels to the grid. Solar exposure covering all PV panels is unlikely to happen all the time, which is known as a partial shading (PS) phenomenon. As a result, depending on the MPPT algorithm adopted, it may fail to find a maximum global power peak, being locked into a local power peak. This research work discusses an alternative MPPT control technique inspired in the social group optimization (SGO) algorithm. SGO belongs to the meta-heuristic optimization techniques family. In this sense, the SGO method ability for solving global optimization problems is explored to find the global maximum power point (GMPP) under the presence of local MPPs. The introduced SGO–MPPT was subjected to different PS conditions and complex shading patterns. Then, its performance was compared to other global search MPPT techniques, which include particle swarm optimization (PSO), the dragon fly algorithm (DFO) and the artificial bee colony algorithm (ABC). The simulation outcomes for the SGO–MPPT characterization showed good results, namely rapid global power tracking in less than 0.2 s with reduced oscillation; the efficiency of solar energy harness was slightly above 99%.
High-Voltage Isolated Multiple Output Auxiliary Power Supply with Output Voltage Self-Regulation
Authors: Ai Yu , Shi Yunming , Chen Shaoyong , Zhang Zehui , Zhao Shuai , Liu Jianqiang
Published: March 2022

Power electronic transformers (PETs) have high voltage isolation requirements and a large number of modules, which requires the auxiliary power supply (APS) to achieve high voltage isolation and multiple outputs. This paper proposes a parameter optimization method for the current source APS applied to PETs, enabling the APS to have multiple output voltage self-regulation capabilities. By optimizing the excitation inductance and leakage inductance for the current transformer of the APS, the excitation current plays a regulating role in energy transmission, thus realizing the self-regulation of the output voltages. The proposed method enables the voltage deviation and voltage change of the output modules to be suppressed under the unbalanced loads and large load fluctuations. Moreover, the APS can still operate normally when a short-circuit or an open-circuit fault occurs on the output sides. Therefore, the stability and reliability of the APS are improved, and the design difficulty of the post-stage voltage regulator circuit is also reduced. Finally, the simulation results are given, and a prototype containing three output modules was built to verify the effectiveness of the proposed parameter optimization method.
The In Vitro Analysis of Postbiotics in Functional Labneh to Be Used as Powerful Tool to Improve Cell Surfaces Properties and Adherence Potential of Probiotic Strains
Authors: Khojah Ebtihal , Gomaa Mohamed Shalaby , Elsherbiny Eman G. , Elawady Asmaa , Darwish Mohamed Samir
Published: March 2022

Postbiotics are functional bioactive substances manufactured during fermentation in a food matrix, which can be used to improve human health, but their influence on the adhesion potential and physicochemical cell surface of probiotics is still unclear. We examined the postbiotic influence produced by Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 in functional labneh on cell surface properties (auto-aggregation, hydrophobicity, and co-aggregation) and the adhesion capacities of three probiotic strains. The most commonly detected effects of probiotics, particularly Lsyn−7, were an increase in auto-aggregation, hydrophobicity, co-aggregation, and adhesion ability of the tested strains. Lactobacillus rhamnosus with Lsyn−7 (59%) presented the highest hydrophobicity, whereas the least adhesion to xylene was detected in L. rhamnosus with LHM. Lactobacillus casei with Lsyn−7 showed the highest auto-aggregation after 24 h (60.55%). Moreover, it also has a strong adhesion to Caco-2 cells and effectively prevents the binding of Salmonella Typhimurium to Caco-2 cells. Lactobacillus plantarum with Lsyn−7 presented the strongest co-aggregation with Staphylococcus aureus (85.1%), S. typhimurium (85. 02%) and Listeria monocytogenes (77.4%). The adherence potential of tested probiotic strains was highly correlated with auto-aggregation, hydrophobicity, co-aggregation, and competitive inhibition of L. monocytogenes and S. typhimurium. The findings suggest that Lsyn−7 can be a candidate to promote the adhesion potential of selected probiotic strains. For the reason that the application of probiotic strains has been more interested in their positive influences in the gastrointestinal tract, it is essential to use some functional compounds, such as postbiotics, to improve adhesion abilities and cell surface properties in terms of bacterial binding.
Neural Network-Based Price Tag Data Analysis
Authors: Laptev Pavel , Litovkin Sergey , Davydenko Sergey , Konev Anton , Kostyuchenko Evgeny , Shelupanov Alexander
Published: March 2022

This paper compares neural networks, specifically Unet, MobileNetV2, VGG16 and YOLOv4-tiny, for image segmentation as part of a study aimed at finding an optimal solution for price tag data analysis. The neural networks considered were trained on an individual dataset collected by the authors. Additionally, this paper covers the automatic image text recognition approach using EasyOCR API. Research revealed that the optimal network for segmentation is YOLOv4-tiny, featuring a cross validation accuracy of 96.92%. EasyOCR accuracy was also calculated and is 95.22%.
Scale Development-Related Genes Identified by Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhicong , Ji Fengyu , Jiang Shouwen , Wu Zhichao , Xu Qianghua
Published: March 2022

Scales, as key structures of fish skin, play an important role in physiological function. The study of fish scale development mechanisms provides a basis for exploring the molecular-level developmental differences between scaled and non-scaled fishes. In this study, alizarin red staining was used to divide the different stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) scale development. Four developmental stages, namely stage I (~17 dpf, scales have not started to grow), stage II (~33 dpf, the point at which scales start to grow), stage III (~41 dpf, the period in which the scales almost cover the whole body), and stage IV (~3 mpf, scales cover the whole body), were determined and used for subsequent transcriptome analysis. WGCNA (weighted correlation network analysis) and DEG (differentially expressed gene) analysis were used for screening the key genes. Based on the comparison between stage II and stage I, 54 hub-genes were identified by WGCNA analysis. Key genes including the Scpp family (Scpp7, Scpp6, Scpp5, and Scpp8), the Fgf family (Fgfr1b and Fgfr3), Tcf7, Wnt10b, Runx2b, and Il2rb were identified by DEG analysis, which indicated that these genes played important roles in the key nodes of scale development signal pathways. Combined with this analysis, the TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and FGF signaling pathways were suggested to be the most important signal pathways for scales starting to grow. This study laid a foundation for exploring the scale development mechanism of other fishes. The scale development candidate genes identified in the current study will facilitate functional gene identifications in the future.
Stochastic Modeling of Particle Transport in Confined Geometries: Problems and Peculiarities
Authors: Procopio Giuseppe , Giona Massimiliano
Published: March 2022

The equivalence between parabolic transport equations for solute concentrations and stochastic dynamics for solute particle motion represents one of the most fertile correspondences in statistical physics originating from the work by Einstein on Brownian motion. In this article, we analyze the problems and the peculiarities of the stochastic equations of motion in microfluidic confined systems. The presence of solid boundaries leads to tensorial hydrodynamic coefficients (hydrodynamic resistance matrix) that depend also on the particle position. Singularity issues, originating from the non-integrable divergence of the entries of the resistance matrix near a solid no-slip boundary, determine some mass-transport paradoxes whenever surface phenomena, such as surface chemical reactions at the walls, are considered. These problems can be overcome by considering the occurrence of non vanishing slippage. Added-mass effects and the influence of fluid inertia in confined geometries are also briefly addressed.
Effect of Salt Reduction on the Quality of Boneless Dry-Cured Ham from Iberian and White Commercially Crossed Pigs
Authors: Muñoz-Rosique Beatriz , Salazar Eva , Tapiador Julio , Peinado Begoña , Tejada Luis
Published: March 2022

Iberian dry-cured ham has great value in a traditional Spanish diet, although experts have recommended its consumption should be reduced because of its high salt content and link to cardiovascular diseases. Eighteen boneless Iberian hams (RIB), eighteen boneless white commercially crossed pig hams (RWC), and eighteen traditionally salted and processed Iberian hams (TIB) were manufactured to check whether the breed (RIB vs. RWC) or the processing (RIB vs. TIB) affects their physical–chemical and sensory characteristics. Moisture, protein, total nitrogen, nonprotein nitrogen, proteolysis index, NaCl, and ash contents were higher in RWC, contrary to the fat values, which were more than double in RIB. All macrominerals, except Ca, were affected by the processing stage and breed, whereas only the micromineral Zn was higher in RWC. The breed did not affect the free amino acid content; however, the total content was slightly higher in RWC. Regarding the manufacturing process, the deboning of RIB allowed the reduction of salt by over 30%. However, the microbiological stability was not affected, resulting in a safe product. Although deboning and salt reduction significantly affect the hardness, adhesiveness, deformation, and elasticity of dry-cured hams, consumers value all sensory parameters with higher scores in RIB.
Comparing Analytical Methods for Erucic Acid Determination in Rapeseed Protein Products
Authors: Peeters Kelly , Tamayo Tenorio Angelica
Published: March 2022

Rapeseed meal and pressed cake are protein-rich by-products from rapeseed after oil extraction. Because of the high protein content, these by-products are an important source of food protein. Their use is motivated by the current pressure on protein prices, increasing demand for functional ingredients, and remaining controversy over wider use of soy. During process development for protein extraction from rapeseed cake or meal, special attention needs to be given to compounds such as erucic acid, which can cause problems if consumed in high amounts. Erucic acid determination is critical to ensure safety, since protein extraction procedures could lead to concentration of this compound in the final product. This research compared differences in extraction (Soxhlet and Folch) and derivatization techniques to obtain the highest erucic acid yield from rapeseed protein products. Results showed that no erucic acid accumulation occurred in the protein during its extraction from the rapeseed cake. The Soxhlet procedure was superior to Folch, as it yielded the highest concentrations of erucic acid. Furthermore, with the Folch procedure, some natural cis-configuration of erucic acid converted to its corresponding trans-configuration (brassidic acid). The latter is important, as ignoring this phenomenon can lead to underestimation of erucic acid content in rapeseed protein samples.
Possibility for Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Dementia Using Three Kinds of Brown Rice Blends after High-Pressure Treatment
Authors: Nakamura Sumiko , Ikeuchi Takeshi , Araki Aki , Kasuga Kensaku , Watanabe Kenichi , Hirayama Masao , Ito Mitsutoshi , Ohtsubo Ken’ichi
Published: March 2022

As it has been reported that type 2 diabetes mellitus increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, we investigated how to prevent type 2 diabetes and dementia using biofunctional boiled rice. We adopted unpolished super-hard rice (SHBR) for diabetes and wax-free unpolished black rice (WFBBR) for dementia and blended those with ordinary non-polished rice (KBR) (blending ratio 4:4:2), adding 2.5% waxy black rice bran (WBB) and 0.3% rice oil after high-pressure treatment (HPT) (WFBSK) to improve its palatability. This boiled rice is rich in dietary fiber, anthocyanin, free ferulic acid and β-secretase inhibitory activity. A randomized, parallel-group comparison study was conducted for 12 weeks with 24 subjects, using Cognitrax to evaluate their cognitive function primarily. Furthermore, as the secondary purpose, we performed a single-dose test for postprandial blood glucose and insulin secretion at the end of the human intervention test. After 12 weeks, consumers of the WFBSK rice exhibited significant improvement in language memory by cognitive test battery compared with those who consumed the control white rice (p < 0.05). Moreover, subjects who consumed the WFBSK rice had lower insulin secretion levels than those who consumed the control polished rice (p < 0.05).
Effects of Different Cooking Methods on the Vitamin D Content of Commonly Consumed Fish in Thailand
Authors: Sridonpai Piyanut , Judprasong Kunchit , Tirakomonpong Nichaphan , Saetang Preecha , Puwastien Prapasri , Rojroongwasinkul Nipa , Ongphiphadhanakul Boonsong
Published: March 2022

This study determined vitamin D content in commonly consumed fish in Thailand and the effects of different cooking methods on vitamin D retention. Five species of freshwater fish and four species of marine fish were purchased from three representative markets. All of the fish were individually prepared according to common household practices. Vitamin D2 and D3 were determined using the HPLC standard method (AOAC method 995.05). The results indicated that vitamin D3 was the only detectable form of vitamin D in the fish. Vitamin D content of raw freshwater fish ranged from 2.42 to 48.5 µg per 100 g edible portion (EP), which was higher than that of raw marine fish (2.94 to 4.69 µg per 100 g EP). Common silver barb, Red Nile tilapia, and Nile tilapia (freshwater fish living in the limnetic zone) contained high levels of vitamin D (48.5 ± 26.5, 31.0 ± 7.7, and 19.8 ± 3.5 µg per 100 g EP, respectively). Boiled fish (except for Common silver barb), fried fish (except for Striped snakehead, Walking catfish, and Common silver barb), and grilled fish (except for Common silver barb, Giant sea perch, and Short-bodied mackerel) retained high levels of vitamin D, which were not significantly different (p > 0.05) from raw fish. Common silver barb, Red Nile tilapia, and Nile tilapia—cooked by boiling, frying, and grilling—are recommended for consumption as excellent sources of vitamin D.
Influence of Fat Replacers on the Rheological, Tribological, and Aroma Release Properties of Reduced-Fat Emulsions
Authors: Schädle Christopher N. , Sanahuja Solange , Bader-Mittermaier Stephanie
Published: March 2022

Reduced-fat food products can help manage diet-related health issues, but consumers often link them with poor sensory qualities. Thus, high-quality fat replacers are necessary to develop appealing reduced-fat products. A full-fat model emulsion was reduced in fat by replacing fat with either water, lactose, corn dextrin (CD), inulin, polydextrose, or microparticulated whey protein (MWP) as fat replacers. The effect of fat reduction and replacement, as well as the suitability of different types of fat replacers, were determined by analyzing fat droplet size distribution, composition, rheological and tribological properties, and the dynamic aroma release of six aroma compounds prevalent in cheese and other dairy products. None of the formulations revealed a considerable effect on droplet size distribution. MWP strongly increased the Kokini oral shear stress and viscosity, while CD exhibited similar values to the full-fat emulsion. All four fat replacers improved the lubricity of the reduced-fat samples. Butane-2,3-dione and 3-methylbutanoic acid were less affected by the changes in the formulation than butanoic acid, heptan-2-one, ethyl butanoate, and nonan-2-one. The aroma releases of the emulsions comprising MWP and CD were most similar to that of the full-fat emulsion. Therefore, CD was identified as a promising fat replacer for reduced-fat emulsions.
Preparation of Low-Molecular-Weight Fucoidan with Anticoagulant Activity by Photocatalytic Degradation Method
Authors: Qi Yihui , Wang Lilong , You Ying , Sun Xiaona , Wen Chengrong , Fu Yinghuan , Song Shuang
Published: March 2022

It is a challenge to degrade sulfated polysaccharides without stripping sulfate groups. In the present study, a photocatalytic method was applied to degrade fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide from brown algae. The degradation with varying addition amounts of H2O2 and TiO2 were monitored by high performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC) and thin layer chromatography (TLC), and fucoidan was efficiently degraded with 5% TiO2 and 0.95% H2O2. A comparison of the chemical compositions of 2 products obtained after 0.5 h and 3 h illumination, DF-0.5 (average Mw 90 kDa) and DF-3 (average Mw 3 kDa), respectively, with those of fucoidan indicates the photocatalytic degradation did not strip the sulfate groups, but reduced the galactose/fucose ratio. Moreover, 12 oligosaccharides in DF-3 were identified by HPLC-ESI-MSn and 10 of them were sulfated. In addition, DF-0.5 showed anticoagulant activity as strong as fucoidan while DF-3 could specifically prolong the activated partial thromboplastin time. All samples exerted inhibition effects on the intrinsic pathway FXII in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, photocatalytic degradation demonstrated the potential to prepare sulfated low-molecular-weight fucoidan with anticoagulant activity.
Effects of Endogenous Non-Starch Nutrients in Acorn (Quercus wutaishanica Blume) Kernels on the Physicochemical Properties and In Vitro Digestibility of Starch
Authors: He Mohe , Ding Tianyi , Wu Yanwen , Ouyang Jie
Published: March 2022

The present study investigated the multi-scale structure of starch derived from acorn kernels and the effects of the non-starch nutrients on the physicochemical properties and in vitro digestibility of starch. The average polymerization degree of acorn starch was 27.3, and the apparent amylose content was 31.4%. The crystal structure remained as C-type but the relative crystallinity of acorn flour decreased from 26.55% to 25.13%, 25.86% and 26.29% after the treatments of degreasing, deproteinization, and the removal of β-glucan, respectively. After the above treatments, the conclusion temperature of acorn flour decreased and had a significant positive correlation with the decrease in the crystallinity. The aggregation between starch granules, and the interactions between starch granules and both proteins and lipids, reduced significantly after degreasing and deproteinization treatments. The endogenous protein, fat, and β-glucan played key roles in reducing the digestibility of acorn starch relative to other compounds, which was dictated by the ability for these compounds to form complexes with starch and inhibit hydrolysis.
Application of Agent-Based Modeling in Agricultural Productivity in Rural Area of Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
Authors: Musayev Sardorbek , Mellor Jonathan , Walsh Tara , Anagnostou Emmanouil
Published: March 2022

Effective weather forecast information helps smallholder farmers improve their adaptation to climate uncertainties and crop productivity. The main objective of this study was to assess the impact of weather forecast adoption on crop productivity. We coupled agent-based and crop productivity models to study the impact of farmers’ management decisions on maize productivity under different rainfall scenarios in Ethiopia. A household survey was conducted with 100 households from 5 villages and was used to validate the crop model. The agent-based model (ABM) analyzed the farmers’ behaviors in crop management under different dry, wet, and normal rainfall conditions. ABM results and crop data from the survey were then used as input data sources for the crop model. Our results show that farming decisions based on weather forecast information improved yield productivity from 17% to 30% under dry and wet seasons, respectively. The impact of adoption rates due to farmers’ intervillage interactions, connections, radio, agriculture extension services, and forecast accuracy brought additional crop yields into the Kebele compared to non-forecast users. Our findings help local policy makers to understand the impact of the forecast information. Results of this study can be used to develop agricultural programs where rainfed agriculture is common.
Nonlocal Boundary Value Problems for Hilfer Generalized Proportional Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Tariboon Jessada , Samadi Ayub , Ntouyas Sotiris K.
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we discuss the existence and uniqueness of solutions for boundary value problems for Hilfer generalized proportional fractional differential equations with multi-point boundary conditions. Firstly, we consider the scalar case for which the uniqueness result is proved by using Banach’s fixed point theorem and the existence results are established via Krasnosel’skiĭ’s fixed point theorem and Leray–Schauder nonlinear alternative. We then establish an existence result in the Banach space case based on Mönch’s fixed point theorem and the technique of the measure of noncompactness. Examples are constructed to illustrate the application of the main results. We emphasize that, in this paper, we initiate the study of Hilfer generalized proportional fractional boundary value problems of order in (1, 2].
Fluorescent Silica Nanoparticles Targeting Mitochondria: Trafficking in Myeloid Cells and Application as Doxorubicin Delivery System in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Sola Federica , Montanari Mariele , Fiorani Mara , Barattini Chiara , Ciacci Caterina , Burattini Sabrina , Lopez Daniele , Ventola Alfredo , Zamai Loris , Ortolani Claudio , Papa Stefano , Canonico Barbara
Published: March 2022

Fluorescent silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) appear to be a promising imaging platform, showing a specific subcellular localization. In the present study, we first investigated their preferential mitochondrial targeting in myeloid cells, by flow cytometry, confocal microscopy and TEM on both cells and isolated mitochondria, to acquire knowledge in imaging combined with therapeutic applications. Then, we conjugated SiNPs to one of the most used anticancer drugs, doxorubicin (DOX). As an anticancer agent, DOX has high efficacy but also an elevated systemic toxicity, causing multiple side effects. Nanostructures are usually employed to increase the drug circulation time and accumulation in target tissues, reducing undesired cytotoxicity. We tested these functionalized SiNPs (DOX-NPs) on breast cancer cell line MCF-7. We evaluated DOX-NP cytotoxicity, the effect on the cell cycle and on the expression of CD44 antigen, a molecule involved in adhesion and in tumor invasion, comparing DOX-NP to free DOX and stand-alone SiNPs. We found a specific ability to release a minor amount of CD44+ extracellular vesicles (EVs), from both CD81 negative and CD81 positive pools. Modulating the levels of CD44 at the cell surface in cancer cells is thus of great importance for disrupting the signaling pathways that favor tumor progression.
Genetic Disruption of Toxoplasma gondii peroxiredoxin (TgPrx) 1 and 3 Reveals the Essential Role of TgPrx3 in Protecting Mice from Fatal Consequences of Toxoplasmosis
Authors: Fereig Ragab M. , Nishikawa Yoshifumi
Published: March 2022

Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide protozoan parasite that endangers human health and causes enormous economic losses to the animal production sector. A safe and effective vaccine or treatment is needed to reduce these hazards. In this study, we revealed the cyto-nuclear and mitochondrial localization of TgPrx1 and TgPrx3 proteins, respectively. We knocked out the T. gondii peroxiredoxin (TgPrxKO) 1 and 3 genes using a parental type II Prugniaud strain lacking KU80 and HXGPRT genes (PruΔku80Δhxgprt) via CRISPR-Cas9 technology. The successful KO was confirmed using PCR, IFAT, and Western blotting in two clones of both target genes, named TgPrx1KO and TgPrx3KO. Regarding in vitro assays, no significant variations between any of the knocked-out clones in TgPrx1KO or TgPrx3KO parasite strains, or even PruΔku80Δhxgprt, were obtained in rates of infection, proliferation, or egress. Nevertheless, mice that were infected with tachyzoites of the TgPrx3KO strain showed a marked decrease in survival rate compared with TgPrx1KO- and PruΔku80Δhxgprt-infected mice. This effect was confirmed using different mouse strains (ICR and C57BL/6J mice), sexes (male and female), and immunological backgrounds (ICR and SCID mice). In addition, TgPrx1KO and TgPrx3KO induced high levels of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) in infected mice at 8 days post infection, and increased IL-6 and IL-12p40 production from murine macrophages cultivated in vitro. The results of the present study suggested that TgPrx3 can induce anti-T. gondii immune responses that protect the mice from fatal consequences of toxoplasmosis. The results of our current and previous studies represent TgPrx3 as an excellent candidate for sub-unit vaccines, suggesting it may contribute to the control of toxoplasmosis for susceptible humans and animals.
Charge Conversion Polymer–Liposome Complexes to Overcome the Limitations of Cationic Liposomes in Mitochondrial-Targeting Drug Delivery
Authors: Shueng Pei-Wei , Yu Lu-Yi , Hou Hsiao-Hsin , Chiu Hsin-Cheng , Lo Chun-Liang
Published: March 2022

Mitochondrial-targeting therapy is considered an important strategy for cancer treatment. (3-Carboxypropyl) triphenyl phosphonium (CTPP) is one of the candidate molecules that can drive drugs or nanomedicines to target mitochondria via electrostatic interactions. However, the mitochondrial-targeting effectiveness of CTPP is low. Therefore, pH-sensitive polymer–liposome complexes with charge-conversion copolymers and CTPP-containing cationic liposomes were designed for efficiently delivering an anti-cancer agent, ceramide, into cancer cellular mitochondria. The charge-conversion copolymers, methoxypoly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(methacrylic acid-g-histidine), were anionic and helped in absorbing and shielding the positive charges of cationic liposomes at pH 7.4. In contrast, charge-conversion copolymers became neutral in order to depart from cationic liposomes and induced endosomal escape for releasing cationic liposomes into cytosol at acidic endosomes. The experimental results reveal that these pH-sensitive polymer–liposome complexes could rapidly escape from MCF-7 cell endosomes and target MCF-7 mitochondria within 3 h, thereby leading to the generation of reactive oxygen species and cell apoptosis. These findings provide a promising solution for cationic liposomes in cancer mitochondrial-targeting drug delivery.
Blood Transcriptome Profiling Links Immunity to Disease Severity in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 (DM1)
Authors: Nieuwenhuis Sylvia , Widomska Joanna , Blom Paul , ‘t Hoen Peter-Bram A. C. , van Engelen Baziel G. M. , Glennon Jeffrey C. ,   on behalf of the OPTIMISTIC Consortium
Published: March 2022

The blood transcriptome was examined in relation to disease severity in type I myotonic dystrophy (DM1) patients who participated in the Observational Prolonged Trial In DM1 to Improve QoL- Standards (OPTIMISTIC) study. This sought to (a) ascertain if transcriptome changes were associated with increasing disease severity, as measured by the muscle impairment rating scale (MIRS), and (b) establish if these changes in mRNA expression and associated biological pathways were also observed in the Dystrophia Myotonica Biomarker Discovery Initiative (DMBDI) microarray dataset in blood (with equivalent MIRS/DMPK repeat length). The changes in gene expression were compared using a number of complementary pathways, gene ontology and upstream regulator analyses, which suggested that symptom severity in DM1 was linked to transcriptomic alterations in innate and adaptive immunity associated with muscle-wasting. Future studies should explore the role of immunity in DM1 in more detail to assess its relevance to DM1.
The Endocannabinoid System and Physical Activity—A Robust Duo in the Novel Therapeutic Approach against Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Charytoniuk Tomasz , Zywno Hubert , Berk Klaudia , Bzdega Wiktor , Kolakowski Adrian , Chabowski Adrian , Konstantynowicz-Nowicka Karolina
Published: March 2022

Rapidly increasing worldwide prevalence of obesity and related pathologies encompassing coronary heart disease, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, or type 2 diabetes constitute serious threats to global health and are associated with a significantly elevated risk of premature death. Considering the enormous burden of these pathologies, novel therapeutic and preventive patterns are indispensable. Dysregulation of one of the most complex biological systems in the human body namely, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) may result in metabolic imbalance and development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Furthermore, many studies showed that physical exercises, depending on their type, intensity, and frequency, exert various alterations within the ECS. Emerging evidence suggests that targeting the ECS via physical activity may produce robust beneficial effects on the course of metabolic pathologies. However, the data showing a direct correlation between the ECS and physical activity in the aspect of metabolic health are very scarce. Therefore, the aim of this review was to provide the most up-to-date state of knowledge about the interplay between the ECS activity and physical exercises in the novel therapeutic and preventive approach toward metabolic pathologies. We believe that this paper, at least in part, will fulfill the existing gap in knowledge and encourage researchers to further explore this very complex yet interesting link between the ECS, its action in physical activity, and subsequent positive outcomes for metabolic health.
Further Delineation of Duplications of ARX Locus Detected in Male Patients with Varying Degrees of Intellectual Disability
Authors: Poeta Loredana , Malacarne Michela , Padula Agnese , Drongitis Denise , Verrillo Lucia , Lioi Maria Brigida , Chiariello Andrea M. , Bianco Simona , Nicodemi Mario , Piccione Maria , Salzano Emanuela , Coviello Domenico , Miano Maria Giuseppina
Published: March 2022

The X-linked gene encoding aristaless-related homeobox (ARX) is a bi-functional transcription factor capable of activating or repressing gene transcription, whose mutations have been found in a wide spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs); these include cortical malformations, paediatric epilepsy, intellectual disability (ID) and autism. In addition to point mutations, duplications of the ARX locus have been detected in male patients with ID. These rearrangements include telencephalon ultraconserved enhancers, whose structural alterations can interfere with the control of ARX expression in the developing brain. Here, we review the structural features of 15 gain copy-number variants (CNVs) of the ARX locus found in patients presenting wide-ranging phenotypic variations including ID, speech delay, hypotonia and psychiatric abnormalities. We also report on a further novel Xp21.3 duplication detected in a male patient with moderate ID and carrying a fully duplicated copy of the ARX locus and the ultraconserved enhancers. As consequences of this rearrangement, the patient-derived lymphoblastoid cell line shows abnormal activity of the ARX-KDM5C-SYN1 regulatory axis. Moreover, the three-dimensional (3D) structure of the Arx locus, both in mouse embryonic stem cells and cortical neurons, provides new insight for the functional consequences of ARX duplications. Finally, by comparing the clinical features of the 16 CNVs affecting the ARX locus, we conclude that—depending on the involvement of tissue-specific enhancers—the ARX duplications are ID-associated risk CNVs with variable expressivity and penetrance.
Future Prospects of Immunotherapy in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Patients: Is There Hope in Other Immune Checkpoints Targeting Molecules?
Authors: Krzyżanowska Natalia , Wojas-Krawczyk Kamila , Milanowski Janusz , Krawczyk Paweł
Published: March 2022

Currently, one of the leading treatments for non-small-cell lung cancer is immunotherapy involving immune checkpoint inhibitors. These monoclonal antibodies restore the anti-tumour immune response altered by negative immune checkpoint interactions. The most commonly used immunotherapeutics in monotherapy are anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 antibodies. The effectiveness of both groups of antibodies has been proven in many clinical trials, which have translated into positive immunotherapeutic registrations for cancer patients worldwide. These antibodies are generally well tolerated, and certain patients achieve durable responses. However, given the resistance of some patients to this form of therapy, along with its other drawbacks, such as adverse events, alternatives are constantly being sought. Specifically, new drugs targeting already known molecules are being tested, and new potential targets are being explored. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the latest developments in this area.
Platelets Purification Is a Crucial Step for Transcriptomic Analysis
Authors: Chebbo Mohamad , Assou Said , Pantesco Veronique , Duez Catherine , Alessi Marie C. , Chanez Pascal , Gras Delphine
Published: March 2022

Platelets are small anucleate cells derived from the fragmentation of megakaryocytes and are involved in different biological processes especially hemostasis, thrombosis, and immune response. Despite their lack of nucleus, platelets contain a reservoir of megakaryocyte-derived RNAs and all the machinery useful for mRNA translation. Interestingly, platelet transcriptome was analyzed in health and diseases and led to the identification of disease-specific molecular signatures. Platelet contamination by leukocytes and erythrocytes during platelet purification is a major problem in transcriptomic analysis and the presence of few contaminants in platelet preparation could strongly alter transcriptome results. Since contaminant impacts on platelet transcriptome remains theoretical, we aimed to determine whether low leukocyte and erythrocyte contamination could cause great or only minor changes in platelet transcriptome. Using microarray technique, we compared the transcriptome of platelets from the same donor, purified by common centrifugation method or using magnetic microbeads to eliminate contaminating cells. We found that platelet transcriptome was greatly altered by contaminants, as the relative amount of 8274 transcripts was different between compared samples. We observed an increase of transcripts related to leukocytes and erythrocytes in platelet purified without microbeads, while platelet specific transcripts were falsely reduced. In conclusion, serious precautions should be taken during platelet purification process for transcriptomic analysis, in order to avoid platelets contamination and result alteration.
Detection of Human Neutrophil Elastase by Fluorescent Peptide Sensors Conjugated to TEMPO-Oxidized Nanofibrillated Cellulose
Authors: Mackin Robert T. , Fontenot Krystal R. , Edwards Judson Vincent , Prevost Nicolette T. , Jordan Jacobs H. , Easson Michael W. , Condon Brian D. , French Alfred D.
Published: March 2022

Peptide–cellulose conjugates designed for use as optical protease sensors have gained interest for point-of-care (POC) detection. Elevated serine protease levels are often found in patients with chronic illnesses, necessitating optimal biosensor design for POC assessment. Nanocellulose provides a platform for protease sensors as a transducer surface, and the employment of nanocellulose in this capacity combines its biocompatibility and high specific surface area properties to confer sensitive detection of dilute biomarkers. However, a basic understanding of the spatiotemporal relationships of the transducer surface and sensor disposition is needed to improve protease sensor design and development. Here, we examine a tripeptide, fluorogenic elastase biosensor attached to TEMPO-oxidized nanofibrillated cellulose via a polyethylene glycol linker. The synthetic conjugate was found to be active in the presence of human neutrophil elastase at levels comparable to other cellulose-based biosensors. Computational models examined the relationship of the sensor molecule to the transducer surface. The results illustrate differences in two crystallite transducer surfaces ((110) vs. (1−10)) and reveal preferred orientations of the sensor. Finally, a determination of the relative (110) vs. (1−10) orientations of crystals extracted from cotton demonstrates a preference for the (1−10) conformer. This model study potentiates the HNE sensor results for enhanced sensor activity design.
The Protective Effect of a Unique Mix of Polyphenols and Micronutrients against Neurodegeneration Induced by an In Vitro Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Pacifici Francesca , Salimei Chiara , Pastore Donatella , Malatesta Gina , Ricordi Camillo , Donadel Giulia , Bellia Alfonso , Rovella Valentina , Tafani Marco , Garaci Enrico , Tesauro Manfredi , Lauro Davide , Di Daniele Nicola , Della-Morte David
Published: March 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is second-most common disabling neurological disorder worldwide, and unfortunately, there is not yet a definitive way to prevent it. Polyphenols have been widely shown protective efficacy against various PD symptoms. However, data on their effect on physio-pathological mechanisms underlying this disease are still lacking. In the present work, we evaluated the activity of a mixture of polyphenols and micronutrients, named A5+, in the murine neuroblastoma cell line N1E115 treated with 6-Hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), an established neurotoxic stimulus used to induce an in vitro PD model. We demonstrate that a pretreatment of these cells with A5+ causes significant reduction of inflammation, resulting in a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-6, TNF-α, and CXCL1), a reduction in ROS production and activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK)1/2, and a decrease in apoptotic mechanisms with the related increase in cell viability. Intriguingly, A5+ treatment promoted cellular differentiation into dopaminergic neurons, as evident by the enhancement in the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase, a well-established dopaminergic neuronal marker. Overall, these results demonstrate the synergic and innovative efficacy of A5+ mixture against PD cellular pathological processes, although further studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying its beneficial effect.
Overcoming Technical and Market Barriers to Enable Sustainable Large-Scale Production and Consumption of Insect Proteins in Europe: A SUSINCHAIN Perspective
Authors: Veldkamp Teun , Meijer Nathan , Alleweldt Frank , Deruytter David , Van Campenhout Leen , Gasco Laura , Roos Nanna , Smetana Sergiy , Fernandes Ana , van der Fels-Klerx H. J.
Published: March 2022

The expected global population growth to 9.7 billion people in 2050 and the significant change in global dietary patterns require an increase in global food production by about 60%. The protein supply for feed and food is most critical and requires an extension in protein sources. Edible insects can upgrade low-grade side streams of food production into high-quality protein, amino acids and vitamins in a very efficient way. Insects are considered to be the “missing link” in the food chain of a circular and sustainable economy. Insects and insect-derived products have entered the European market since first being acknowledged as a valuable protein source for feed and food production in around 2010. However, today, scaling up the insect value chain in Europe is progressing at a relatively slow pace. The mission of SUSINCHAIN (SUStainable INsect CHAIN)—a four-year project which has received funding from the European Commission—is to contribute to novel protein provision for feed and food in Europe by overcoming the remaining barriers for increasing the economic viability of the insect value chain and opening markets by combining forces in a comprehensive multi-actor consortium. The overall project objective is to test, pilot and demonstrate recently developed technologies, products and processes, to realize a shift up to Technology Readiness Level 6 or higher. In addition to these crucial activities, the project engages with stakeholders in the insect protein supply chain for feed and food by living labs and workshops. These actions provide the necessary knowledge and data for actors in the insect value chain to decrease the cost price of insect products, process insects more efficiently and market insect protein applications in animal feed and regular human diets that are safe and sustainable. This paves the way for further upscaling and commercialization of the European insect sector.
Open Coronary Endarterectomy of Left Anterior Descending Artery—Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Robu Mircea , Marian Diana Romina , Lazăr Ecaterina , Radu Răzvan , Boroș Cristian , Sibișan Andra , Voica Cristian , Broască Marian , Gheorghiță Daniela , Moldovan Horațiu , Iliescu Vlad Anton
Published: March 2022

Coronary endarterectomy (CE) emerged as a necessity to achieve complete surgical myocardial revascularization in patients with diffusely diseased coronary arteries and it also serves as aid to coronary bypass grafting (CABG). The safety and postoperative prognosis of this procedure are still matters of debate. There are no clear preoperative indications, a standard technique has not yet been established as gold standard and the postoperative management differs depending on each institution. CE of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) is technically challenging and potentially hazardous with high risk of postoperative myocardial infarction. In this article, we describe the open technique for CE of the LAD with its specific details, which we believe could be the safest and the best reproductible option. To better understand the profile of a patient requiring such a procedure we present the case of a 73-years old male with diffused coronary artery disease (CAD) and a short review of literature.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement with the Self-Expandable Core Valve Evolut Prosthesis Using the Cusp-Overlap vs. Tricusp-View
Authors: Doldi Philipp Maximilian , Stolz Lukas , Escher Felix , Steffen Julius , Gmeiner Jonas , Roden Daniel , Linnemann Marie , Löw Kornelia , Deseive Simon , Stocker Thomas J. , Orban Martin , Theiss Hans , Rizas Konstantinos , Curta Adrian , Sadoni Sebastian , Buech Joscha , Joskowiak Dominik , Peterss Sven , Hagl Christian , Massberg Steffen , Hausleiter Jörg , Braun Daniel
Published: March 2022

Despite the rapid increase in experience and technological improvement, the incidence of conduction disturbances in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with the self-expandable CoreValve Evolut valve remains high. Recently, a cusp-overlap view (COP) implantation technique has been proposed for TAVR with self-expandable valves offering an improved visualization during valve expansion compared to the three-cusp view (TCV). This study aims to systematically analyze procedural outcomes of TAVR patients treated with the CoreValve Evolut valve using a COP compared to TCV in a high-volume center. The primary endpoint was technical success according the 2021 VARC-3 criteria. A total of 122 consecutive patients (61 pts. TCV: April 2019 to November 2020; 61 pts. COP: December 2020 to October 2021) that underwent TAVR with the CoreValve Evolut prosthesis were included in this analysis. Although there was no difference in the primary endpoint technical success between TCV and COP patients (93.4% vs. 90.2%, OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.16, 2.4, p = 0.51), we observed a significantly lower risk for permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) among COP patients (TCV: 27.9% vs. COP: 13.1%, OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.15, 0.97, p = 0.047). Implantation of the CoreValve Evolut prosthesis using the COP might help to reduce the rate of PPI following TAVR.
A Three-Protein Panel to Support the Diagnosis of Sepsis in Children
Authors: Pilar-Orive Francisco J. , Astigarraga Itziar , Azkargorta Mikel , Elortza Felix , Garcia-Obregon Susana
Published: March 2022

Sepsis is a syndrome without a standard validated diagnostic test. Early recognition is crucial. Serum proteome analysis in children with sepsis may identify new biomarkers. This study aimed to find suitable blood biomarkers for an early diagnosis of sepsis. An analytical observational case-control study was carried out in a single center. Children admitted to a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit with clinical diagnosed sepsis were eligible for study. A proteomic analysis conducted by mass spectrometry was performed. Forty patients with sepsis and 24 healthy donors were recruited. Proteomics results revealed 44 proteins differentially expressed between patients and healthy controls. Six proteins were selected to be validated: lactoferrin, serum amyloid-A1 (SAA-1), complement factor B, leucine-rich alpha-2 glycoprotein (LRG1), soluble interleukin-2 alpha chain receptor (sCD25) and soluble haptoglobin–hemoglobin receptor. Our results showed that sCD25, SAA-1, and LRG1 had high levels of specificity and sensitivity, as well as an excellent area under the ROC curve (>0.9). Our study provides a serum proteomic analysis that identifies new diagnostic biomarkers in sepsis. SAA-1, sCD25 and LRG1 were able to separate septic from healthy donor, so they could be used together with other clinical and analytical features to improve sepsis diagnosis in children.