bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
5-Aza-2′-Deoxycytidine and Valproic Acid in Combination with CHIR99021 and A83-01 Induce Pluripotency Genes Expression in Human Adult Somatic Cells
Authors: Aguirre-Vázquez Alain , Salazar-Olivo Luis A. , Flores-Ponce Xóchitl , Arriaga-Guerrero Ana L. , Garza-Rodríguez Dariela , Camacho-Moll María E. , Velasco Iván , Castorena-Torres Fabiola , Dadheech Nidheesh , Bermúdez de León Mario
Published: March 2021

A generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) by ectopic expression of OCT4, SOX2, KLF4, and c-MYC has established promising opportunities for stem cell research, drug discovery, and disease modeling. While this forced genetic expression represents an advantage, there will always be an issue with genomic instability and transient pluripotency genes reactivation that might preclude their clinical application. During the reprogramming process, a somatic cell must undergo several epigenetic modifications to induce groups of genes capable of reactivating the endogenous pluripotency core. Here, looking to increase the reprograming efficiency in somatic cells, we evaluated the effect of epigenetic molecules 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine (5AZ) and valproic acid (VPA) and two small molecules reported as reprogramming enhancers, CHIR99021 and A83-01, on the expression of pluripotency genes and the methylation profile of the OCT4 promoter in a human dermal fibroblasts cell strain. The addition of this cocktail to culture medium increased the expression of OCT4, SOX2, and KLF4 expression by 2.1-fold, 8.5-fold, and 2-fold, respectively, with respect to controls; concomitantly, a reduction in methylated CpG sites in OCT4 promoter region was observed. The epigenetic cocktail also induced the expression of the metastasis-associated gene S100A4. However, the epigenetic cocktail did not induce the morphological changes characteristic of the reprogramming process. In summary, 5AZ, VPA, CHIR99021, and A83-01 induced the expression of OCT4 and SOX2, two critical genes for iPSC. Future studies will allow us to precise the mechanisms by which these compounds exert their reprogramming effects.
Mono- and Diamination of 4,6-Dichloropyrimidine, 2,6-Dichloropyrazine and 1,3-Dichloroisoquinoline with Adamantane-Containing Amines
Authors: Kharlamova Alisa D. , Abel Anton S. , Averin Alexei D. , Maloshitskaya Olga A. , Roznyatovskiy Vitaly A. , Savelyev Evgenii N. , Orlinson Boris S. , Novakov Ivan A. , Beletskaya Irina P.
Published: March 2021

N-heteroaryl substituted adamantane-containing amines are of substantial interest for their perspective antiviral and psychotherapeutic activities. Chlorine atom at alpha-position of N-heterocycles has been substituted by the amino group using convenient nucleophilic substitution reactions with a series of adamantylalkylamines. The prototropic equilibrium in these compounds was studied using NMR spectroscopy. The introduction of the second amino substituent in 4-amino-6-chloropyrimidine, 2-amino-chloropyrazine, and 1-amino-3-chloroisoquinoline was achieved using Pd(0) catalysis.
Highly Oxygenated Triterpenoids and Diterpenoids from Fructus Rubi (Rubus chingii Hu) and Their NF-kappa B Inhibitory Effects
Authors: Wan Jiang , Wang Xiao-Juan , Guo Nan , Wu Xi-Ying , Xiong Juan , Zang Yi , Jiang Chun-Xiao , Han Bing , Li Jia , Hu Jin-Feng
Published: March 2021

During a phytochemical investigation of the unripe fruits of Rubus chingii Hu (i.e., Fructus Rubi, a traditional Chinese medicine named “Fu-Pen-Zi”), a number of highly oxygenated terpenoids were isolated and characterized. These included nine ursane-type (1, 2, and 4–10), five oleanane-type (3, 11–14), and six cucurbitane-type (15–20) triterpenoids, together with five ent-kaurane-type diterpenoids (21–25). Among them, (4R,5R,8R,9R,10R,14S,17S,18S,19R,20R)-2,19α,23-trihydroxy-3-oxo-urs-1,12-dien-28-oic acid (rubusacid A, 1), (2R*,4S*,5R*,8R*,9R*,10R*,14S*,17S*, 18S*,19R*,20R*)-2α,19α,24-trihydroxy-3-oxo-urs-12-en-28-oic acid (rubusacid B, 2), (5R,8R,9R,10R, 14S,17R,18S,19S)-2,19α-dihydroxy-olean-1,12-dien-28-oic acid (rubusacid C, 3), and (3S,5S,8S,9R, 10S,13R,16R)-3α,16α,17-trihydroxy-ent-kaur-2-one (rubusone, 21) were previously undescribed. Their chemical structures and absolute configurations were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) analyses. Compounds 1 and 3 are rare naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpenoids featuring a special α,β-unsaturated keto-enol (diosphenol) unit in ring A. Cucurbitacin B (15), cucurbitacin D (16), and 3α,16α,20(R),25-tetrahydroxy-cucurbita-5,23- dien-2,11,22-trione (17) were found to have remarkable inhibitory effects against NF-κB, with IC50 values of 0.08, 0.61, and 1.60 μM, respectively.
Clinical Amyloid Typing by Proteomics: Performance Evaluation and Data Sharing between Two Centres
Authors: Canetti Diana , Brambilla Francesca , Rendell Nigel B. , Nocerino Paola , Gilbertson Janet A. , Di Silvestre Dario , Bergamaschi Andrea , Lavatelli Francesca , Merlini Giampaolo , Gillmore Julian D. , Bellotti Vittorio , Mauri Pierluigi , Taylor Graham W.
Published: March 2021

Amyloidosis is a relatively rare human disease caused by the deposition of abnormal protein fibres in the extracellular space of various tissues, impairing their normal function. Proteomic analysis of patients’ biopsies, developed by Dogan and colleagues at the Mayo Clinic, has become crucial for clinical diagnosis and for identifying the amyloid type. Currently, the proteomic approach is routinely used at National Amyloidosis Centre (NAC, London, UK) and Istituto di Tecnologie Biomediche-Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (ITB-CNR, Milan, Italy). Both centres are members of the European Proteomics Amyloid Network (EPAN), which was established with the aim of sharing and discussing best practice in the application of amyloid proteomics. One of the EPAN’s activities was to evaluate the quality and the confidence of the results achieved using different software and algorithms for protein identification. In this paper, we report the comparison of proteomics results obtained by sharing NAC proteomics data with the ITB-CNR centre. Mass spectrometric raw data were analysed using different software platforms including Mascot, Scaffold, Proteome Discoverer, Sequest and bespoke algorithms developed for an accurate and immediate amyloid protein identification. Our study showed a high concordance of the obtained results, suggesting a good accuracy of the different bioinformatics tools used in the respective centres. In conclusion, inter-centre data exchange is a worthwhile approach for testing and validating the performance of software platforms and the accuracy of results, and is particularly important where the proteomics data contribute to a clinical diagnosis.
Essential Oil Composition and DNA Barcode and Identification of Aniba species (Lauraceae) Growing in the Amazon Region
Authors: Xavier Júlia Karla A. M. , Maia Leonardo , Figueiredo Pablo Luis B. , Folador Adriana , Ramos Alessandra R. , Andrade Eloísa H. , Maia José Guilherme S. , Setzer William N. , da Silva Joyce Kelly R.
Published: March 2021

Lauraceae species are widely represented in the Amazon, presenting a significant essential oil yield, large chemical variability, various biological applications, and high economic potential. Its taxonomic classification is difficult due to the accentuated morphological uniformity, even among taxa from a different genus. For this reason, the present work aimed to find chemical and molecular markers to discriminate Aniba species collected in the Pará State (Brazil). The chemical composition of the essential oils from Aniba canelilla, A. parviflora, A. rosaeodora, and A. terminalis were grouped by multivariate statistical analysis. The major compounds were rich in benzenoids and terpenoids such as 1-nitro-2-phenylethane (88.34–70.85%), linalool (15.2–75.3%), α-phellandrene (36.0–51.8%), and β-phellandrene (11.6–25.6%). DNA barcodes were developed using the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) nuclear region, and the matK, psbA-trnH, rbcL, and ycf1 plastid regions. The markers psbA-trnH and ITS showed the best discrimination for the species, and the phylogenic analysis in the three- (rbcL + matK + trnH − psbA and rbcL + matK + ITS) and four-locus (rbcL + matK + trnH − psbA + ITS) combination formed clades with groups strongly supported by the Bayesian inference (BI) (PP:1.00) and maximum likelihood (ML) (BS ≥ 97%). Therefore, based on statistical multivariate and phylogenetic analysis, the results showed a significant correlation between volatile chemical classes and genetic characteristics of Aniba species.
Approaches toward the Separation, Modification, Identification and Scale up Purification of Tetracyclic Diterpene Glycosides from Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Bertoni
Authors: Perera Wilmer H. , McChesney James D.
Published: March 2021

Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Bertoni is a plant species native to Brazil and Paraguay well-known by the sweet taste of their leaves. Since the recognition of rebaudioside A and other steviol glycosides as generally recognized as safe by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2008 and grant of marketing approval by the European Union in 2011, the species has been widely cultivated and studied in several countries. Several efforts have been dedicated to the isolation and structure elucidation of minor components searching for novel non-caloric sugar substitutes with improved organoleptic properties. The present review provides an overview of the main chemical approaches found in the literature for identification and structural differentiation of diterpene glycosides from Stevia rebaudiana: High-performance Thin-Layer Chromatography, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy. Modification of diterpene glycosides by chemical and enzymatic reactions together with some strategies to scale up of the purification process saving costs are also discussed. A list of natural diterpene glycosides, some examples of chemically modified and of enzymatically modified diterpene glycosides reported from 1931 to February 2021 were compiled using the scientific databases Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and PubMed.
Phosphorylation of Guar Gum/Magnetite/Chitosan Nanocomposites for Uranium (VI) Sorption and Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Hamza Mohammed F. , Fouda Amr , Elwakeel Khalid Z. , Wei Yuezhou , Guibal Eric , Hamad Nora A.
Published: March 2021

The development of new materials is needed to address the environmental challenges of wastewater treatment. The phosphorylation of guar gum combined with its association to chitosan allows preparing an efficient sorbent for the removal of U(VI) from slightly acidic solutions. The incorporation of magnetite nanoparticles enhances solid/liquid. Functional groups are characterized by FTIR spectroscopy while textural properties are qualified by N2 adsorption. The optimum pH is close to 4 (deprotonation of amine and phosphonate groups). Uptake kinetics are fast (60 min of contact), fitted by a pseudo-first order rate equation. Maximum sorption capacities are close to 1.28 and 1.16 mmol U g−1 (non-magnetic and magnetic, respectively), while the sorption isotherms are fitted by Langmuir equation. Uranyl desorption (using 0.2 M HCl solutions) is achieved within 20–30 min; the sorbents can be recycled for at least five cycles (5–6% loss in sorption performance, complete desorption). In multi-component solutions, the sorbents show marked preference for U(VI) and Nd(III) over alkali-earth metals and Si(IV). The zone of exclusion method shows that magnetic sorbent has antibacterial effects against both Gram+ and Gram- bacteria, contrary to non-magnetic material (only Gram+ bacteria). The magnetic composite is highly promising as antimicrobial support and for recovery of valuable metals.
Thermal-Hydraulic Analysis of Parabolic Trough Collectors Using Straight Conical Strip Inserts with Nanofluids
Authors: Abed Nabeel , Afgan Imran , Iacovides Hector , Cioncolini Andrea , Khurshid Ilyas , Nasser Adel
Published: March 2021

In this study, we numerically investigated the effect of swirl inserts with and without nanofluids over a range of Reynolds numbers for parabolic trough collectors with non-uniform heating. Three approaches were utilized to enhance the thermal-hydraulic performance—the variation of geometrical properties of a single canonical insert to find the optimized shape; the use of nanofluids and analysis of the effect of both the aforementioned approaches; the use of swirl generators and nanofluids together. Results revealed that using the straight conical strips alone enhanced the Nusselt number by 47.13%. However, the use of nanofluids along with the swirl generators increased the Nusselt number by 57.48%. These improvements reduced the thermal losses by 22.3% for swirl generators with nanofluids, as opposed to a reduction of only 15.7% with nanofluids alone. The investigation of different swirl generator designs showed various levels of improvements in terms of the overall thermal efficiency and thermal exergy efficiency. The larger swirl generator (H30mm-θ30°-N4) with 6% SiO2 nanofluids was found to be the optimum configuration, which improved the overall collector efficiency and thermal exergy by 14.62% and 14.47%, respectively.
Foliar Application of CeO2 Nanoparticles Alters Generative Components Fitness and Seed Productivity in Bean Crop (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Salehi Hajar , Chehregani Rad Abdolkarim , Raza Ali , Chen Jen-Tsung
Published: March 2021

In the era of technology, nanotechnology has been introduced as a new window for agriculture. However, no attention has been paid to the effect of cerium dioxide nanoparticles (nCeO2) on the reproductive stage of plant development to evaluate their toxicity and safety. To address this important topic, bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) treated aerially with nCeO2 suspension at 250–2000 mg L−1 were cultivated until flowering and seed production in the greenhouse condition. Microscopy analysis was carried out on sectioned anthers and ovules at different developmental stages. The pollen’s mother cell development in nCeO2 treatments was normal at early stages, the same as control plants. However, the results indicated that pollen grains underwent serious structural damages, including chromosome separation abnormality at anaphase I, pollen wall defect, and pollen grain malformations in nCeO2-treated plants at the highest concentration, which resulted in pollen abortion and yield losses. On the ovule side, the progression of development only at the highest concentration was modified in the two-nucleated embryo sac stage, probably due to apoptosis in nuclei. Nevertheless, the findings confirmed the more pronounced vulnerability of male reproductive development under nCeO2 exposure than female development. The higher concentration decreased seed productivity, including seed set in either pods or whole plant (13% and 18% compared to control, respectively). The data suggested the potential application of nCeO2 at optimal dosages as a plant productivity ameliorative. However, a higher dosage is considered as an eco-environmental hazard. To our best knowledge, this is the first study analyzing reproductive plant response upon exposure to nCeO2.
Interlayer Separation in Graphene Paper Comprising Electrochemically Exfoliated Graphene
Authors: Nguyen Dang Du , Lim TaeGyeong , Lim Soomook , Suk Ji Won
Published: March 2021

The emergence of graphene paper comprising well-stacked graphene flakes has promoted the application of graphene-based materials in diverse fields such as energy storage devices, membrane desalination, and actuators. The fundamental properties of graphene paper such as mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties are critical to the design and fabrication of paper-based devices. In this study, the interlayer interactions in graphene paper were investigated by double cantilever beam (DCB) fracture tests. Graphene papers fabricated by flow-directed stacking of electrochemically exfoliated few-layer graphene flakes were mechanically separated into two parts, which generated force-displacement responses of the DCB sample. The analysis based on fracture mechanics revealed that the interlayer separation energy of the graphene paper was 9.83 ± 0.06 J/m2. The results provided a fundamental understanding of the interfacial properties of graphene papers, which will be useful for developing paper-based devices with mechanical integrity.
Long-Term Performance of Nanomodified Coated Concrete Structures under Hostile Marine Climate Conditions
Authors: Esteban-Arranz Adrián , de la Osa Ana Raquel , García-Lorefice Wendy Eunice , Sacristan Javier , Sánchez-Silva Luz
Published: March 2021

Epoxy resin coatings are commonly used to protect concrete structures due to their excellent chemical corrosion resistance and strong adhesion capacity. However, these coatings are susceptible to damage by surface abrasion and long-term contact with marine climate conditions, deteriorating their appearance and performance. This study aims to optimize the performance of cement-based epoxy resin coatings, bisphenol-A and polyol, in aggressive environments by functionalizing the selected systems with different nanoparticles such as activated carbon, surface modified nanoclay, silica and zinc oxide. Nanomodified coatings were applied to concrete specimens and subjected to three weeks in a spray salt chamber and three weeks in a QUV chamber. They were found to present improved thermal resistance and curing degree after the weathering test. Their water permeability, adhesion, and abrasion resistance properties were evaluated before and after this test. The results showed that the nature of the nanocomposites determined their water permeability; the bare resin presented the worst result. Additionally, nanomodified composites with activated carbon and silica showed the best adherence and abrasion resistance properties, due to the effect of this aging test on their thermal stability and curing degree.
Defining Nutritional and Functional Niches of Legumes: A Call for Clarity to Distinguish a Future Role for Pulses in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans
Authors: Didinger Chelsea , Thompson Henry J.
Published: March 2021

Legume food crops can contribute to the solution of diet-related public health challenges. The rich diversity of the botanical family Fabaceae (Leguminosae) allows legumes to fill numerous nutritional niches. Pulses (i.e., a subgroup of legumes including chickpeas, cowpeas, dry beans, dry peas, and lentils) are a nutrient-dense food that could play a key role in eliminating the dramatic underconsumption of dietary fiber and potassium, two dietary components of public health concern, all while maintaining a caloric intake that promotes a healthy weight status. However, incorrect use of terminology—in the commercial and scientific literature as well as in publications and materials prepared for the consuming public—creates confusion and represents a barrier to dissemination of clear dietary guideline messaging. The use of accurate terminology and a simple classification scheme can promote public health through differentiation among types of legumes, better informing the development and implementation of nutritional policies and allowing health care professionals and the public to capitalize on the health benefits associated with different legumes. Although inconsistent grouping of legumes exists across countries, the recently released 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) were chosen to illustrate potential challenges faced and areas for clarification. In the 2020–2025 DGA, pulses are included in two food groups: the protein food group and ‘beans, peas, lentils’ vegetable subgroup. To evaluate the potential of pulses to contribute to intake of key dietary components within calorie recommendations, we compared 100 kilocalorie edible portions of pulses versus other foods. These comparisons demonstrate the unique nutritional profile of pulses and the opportunity afforded by this type of legume to address public health concerns, which can be greatly advanced by reducing confusion through global harmonization of terminology.
Vitamin C: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: Carr Anitra C. , Lykkesfeldt Jens
Published: March 2021

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a normal liver metabolite in most animals, with humans being a notable exception due to random genetic mutations that have occurred during our evolution [...]
Milk Fatty Acid Profiles in Different Animal Species: Focus on the Potential Effect of Selected PUFAs on Metabolism and Brain Functions
Authors: Mollica Maria , Trinchese Giovanna , Cimmino Fabiano , Penna Eduardo , Cavaliere Gina , Tudisco Raffaella , Musco Nadia , Manca Claudia , Catapano Angela , Monda Marcellino , Bergamo Paolo , Banni Sebastiano , Infascelli Federico , Lombardi Pietro , Crispino Marianna
Published: March 2021

Milk contains several important nutrients that are beneficial for human health. This review considers the nutritional qualities of essential fatty acids (FAs), especially omega-3 (ω-3) and omega-6 (ω-6) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) present in milk from ruminant and non-ruminant species. In particular, the impact of milk fatty acids on metabolism is discussed, including its effects on the central nervous system. In addition, we presented data indicating how animal feeding—the main way to modify milk fat composition—may have a potential impact on human health, and how rearing and feeding systems strongly affect milk quality within the same animal species. Finally, we have presented the results of in vivo studies aimed at supporting the beneficial effects of milk FA intake in animal models, and the factors limiting their transferability to humans were discussed.
Dietary Fibre Intake in Type 2 and New-Onset Prediabetes/Diabetes after Acute Pancreatitis: A Nested Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Li Xinye , Kimita Wandia , Cho Jaelim , Ko Juyeon , Bharmal Sakina H. , Petrov Maxim S.
Published: March 2021

The association between intake of dietary fibre and glucose metabolism has been extensively investigated in numerous metabolic disorders. However, little is known about this association in individuals after an attack of acute pancreatitis (AP). The aim was to investigate the associations between intake of dietary fibre and markers of glucose metabolism in individuals with new-onset prediabetes or diabetes after acute pancreatitis (NODAP), pre-exiting type 2 prediabetes or diabetes, and normoglycaemia after acute pancreatitis. This cross-sectional study was nested within the parent prospective longitudinal cohort study. The studied markers of glucose metabolism were fasting plasma glucose and glycated haemoglobin. Habitual intake of dietary fibre was determined using the EPIC-Norfolk food frequency questionnaire. Multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted. The study included a total of 108 individuals after AP. In the NODAP group, increased intakes of total fibre (β = −0.154, p = 0.006), insoluble fibre (β = −0.133, p = 0.01), and soluble fibre (β = −0.13, p = 0.02) were significantly associated with a reduction in fasting plasma glucose. Increased intakes of vegetables (β = −0.069, p = 0.004) and nuts (β = −0.039, p = 0.038) were significantly associated with a reduction in fasting plasma glucose. Increased intake of nuts (β = −0.054, p = 0.001) was also significantly associated with a reduction in glycated haemoglobin. None of the above associations were significant in the other study groups. Habitual intake of dietary fibre was inversely associated with fasting plasma glucose in individuals with NODAP. Individuals after an attack of AP may benefit from increasing their intake of dietary fibre (specifically, vegetables and nuts) with a view to preventing NODAP.
Breast Cancer Survivors Undergoing Endocrine Therapy Have a Worrying Risk Factor Profile for Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Mazzutti Fernanda S. , Custódio Isis D. D. , Lima Mariana T. M. , Carvalho Kamila P. de , Pereira Taísa S. S. , Molina Maria del C. B. , Canto Paula P. L. , Paiva Carlos E. , Maia Yara C. de P.
Published: March 2021

The increased risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in breast cancer survivors has been widely discussed in the literature and occurs due to the cardiotoxicity of antineoplastic treatments, and also to the common risk factors between these diseases. Thus, the objective of our study was to evaluate, prospectively, the number of risk factors (NRF) for CVDs in women during endocrine therapy, and to associate the NRF with C reactive protein (CRP) and phase angle (PhA). The following risk factors for CVD were evaluated at three times: anthracycline chemotherapy, radiotherapy, comorbidities, inadequate diet, overweight, abdominal adiposity, alcoholism, smoking, physical inactivity and altered lipid profile. There was inadequacy in the most components of the Brazilian Healthy Eating Index—Revised and inadequate consumption of various types of fats and fibers. Most women in this study presented excessive abdominal fat and overweight, but these parameters have not changed over time (p < 0.005). Moreover, a high frequency of systemic arterial hypertension and physical inactivity was observed. The average NRF for CVDs was above ten, at the three evaluation times. Women with higher NRF had higher levels of CRP (p = 0.003), a predictor of cardiovascular risk, however, there was no significance with PhA (p = 0.256). Thus, intervention is needed to improve lifestyle.
Consumption of Tea, Alcohol, and Fruits and Risk of Kidney Stones: A Prospective Cohort Study in 0.5 Million Chinese Adults
Authors: Wang Han , Fan Junning , Yu Canqing , Guo Yu , Pei Pei , Yang Ling , Chen Yiping , Du Huaidong , Meng Fanwen , Chen Junshi , Chen Zhengming , Lv Jun , Li Liming ,   on behalf of the China Kadoorie Biobank Collaborative Group
Published: March 2021

A few prospective studies have suggested that tea, alcohol, and fruit consumption may reduce the risk of kidney stones. However, little is known whether such associations and their combined effect persist in Chinese adults, for whom the popular tea and alcohol drinks are different from those investigated in the aforementioned studies. The present study included 502,621 participants from the China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB). Information about tea, alcohol, and fruit consumption was self-reported at baseline. The first documented cases of kidney stones during follow-up were collected through linkage with the national health insurance system. Cox regression was used to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). During a median of 11.1 years of follow-up, we collected 12,407 cases of kidney stones. After multivariable adjustment, tea, alcohol, and fruit consumption were found to be negatively associated with kidney stone risk, but the linear trend was only found in tea and fruit consumption. Compared with non-tea consumers, the HR (95% CI) for participants who drank ≥7 cups of tea per day was 0.73 (0.65–0.83). Compared with non-alcohol consumers, the HR (95% CI) was 0.79 (0.72–0.87) for participants who drank pure alcohol of 30.0–59.9 g per day but had no further decrease with a higher intake of alcohol. Compared with less-than-weekly consumers, the HR (95% CI) for daily fruit consumers was 0.81 (0.75–0.87). Even for those who did not drink alcohol excessively, increasing tea and fruit consumption could also independently reduce the stone risk. Among Chinese adults, tea, alcohol, and fruit consumption was associated with a lower risk of kidney stones.
Fermented Maillard Reaction Products by Lactobacillus gasseri 4M13 Alters the Intestinal Microbiota and Improves Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetic Mice with Colitis
Authors: Jeong Yu-Jin , Park Ho-Young , Nam Han-Kyul , Lee Kwang-Won
Published: March 2021

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic relapsing disease. Multiple factors can cause inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including diet, imbalance of the immune system, and impaired intestinal barrier function. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a complex and chronic metabolic disease caused by a combination of insulin resistance and an ineffective insulin secretory response. The co-occurrence of these two diseases, demonstrating interrelated effects within the gut microbiota, has been frequently reported. This study evaluated the effects of a fermented glycated conjugate of whey protein and galactose with Lactobacillus gasseri 4M13 (FMRP) to prevent type 2 diabetes mellitus with inflammatory bowel disease. C57BLKS/J- db/db mice were orally administered FMRP for 14 consecutive days and 2% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in water ad libitum for 5 days to induce colitis. FMRP-fed mice showed improved insulin secretion and symptoms of colitis. Compared to the DSS group, the FMRP group showed a decreased abundance of six bacterial genera and increased abundance of Alistipes and Hungateiclostridium. In cecal contents, the levels of short-chain fatty acids increased in the FMRP group compared to those in the DSS group. Continuous administration of FMRP thus may improve the homeostasis of not only insulin secretion and inflammation, but also the intestinal environment in inflammatory bowel disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
bFGF and SDF-1α Improve In Vivo Performance of VEGF-Incorporating Small-Diameter Vascular Grafts
Authors: Antonova Larisa , Kutikhin Anton , Sevostianova Viktoriia , Velikanova Elena , Matveeva Vera , Glushkova Tatiana , Mironov Andrey , Krivkina Evgeniya , Shabaev Amin , Senokosova Evgeniya , Barbarash Leonid
Published: March 2021

Tissue-engineered vascular grafts are widely tested as a promising substitute for both arterial bypass and replacement surgery. We previously demonstrated that incorporation of VEGF into electrospun tubular scaffolds from poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)/poly(ε-caprolactone) enhances formation of an endothelial cell monolayer. However, an overdose of VEGF can induce tumor-like vasculature; thereby, other bioactive factors are needed to support VEGF-driven endothelialization and successful recruitment of smooth muscle cells. Utilizing emulsion electrospinning, we fabricated one-layer vascular grafts with either VEGF, bFGF, or SDF-1α, and two-layer vascular grafts with VEGF incorporated into the inner layer and bFGF and SDF-1α incorporated into the outer layer with the following structural evaluation, tensile testing, and in vivo testing using a rat abdominal aorta replacement model. The latter graft prototype showed higher primary patency rate. We found that the two-layer structure improved surface topography and mechanical properties of the grafts. Further, the combination of bFGF, SDF-1α, and VEGF improved endothelialization compared with VEGF alone, while bFGF induced a rapid formation of a smooth muscle cell layer. Taken together, these findings show that the two-layer structure and incorporation of bFGF and SDF-1α into the vascular grafts in combination with VEGF provide a higher primary patency and therefore improved in vivo performance.
Carbon Nanotubes—Potent Carriers for Targeted Drug Delivery in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kofoed Andersen Camilla , Khatri Sangita , Hansen Jonas , Slott Sofie , Pavan Parvathaneni Rohith , Mendes Ana C. , Chronakis Ioannis S. , Hung Shu-Chen , Rajasekaran Narendiran , Ma Zhuoran , Zhu Shoujun , Dai Hongjie , Mellins Elizabeth D. , Astakhova Kira
Published: March 2021

Two types of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), HiPco- and carboxyl-SWCNT, are evaluated as drug carriers for the traditional anti-inflammatory drug methotrexate (MTX) and a small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting NOTCH1 gene. The nanotubes are solubilized by PEGylation and covalently loaded with MTX. The coupling efficiency (CE%) of MTX is 77–79% for HiPco-SWCNT and 71–83% for carboxyl-SWCNT. siRNA is noncovalently attached to the nanotubes with efficiency of 90–97% for HiPco-SWCNT and 87–98% for carboxyl-SWCNT. Through whole body imaging in the second near-infrared window (NIR-II window, 1000–1700 nm), SWCNTs were found to be selectively accumulated in inflamed joints in a serum transfer mouse model. We further investigated the interactions of the siRNA/MTX loaded nanotubes with human blood and mice bone marrow cells. In human blood, both types of unloaded SWCNTs were associated with B cells, monocytes and neutrophils. Interestingly, loading with MTX suppressed SWCNTs targeting specificity to immune cells, especially B cells; in contrast, loading siRNA alone enhanced the targeting specificity. Loading both MTX and siRNA to carboxyl-SWCNT enhanced targeting specificity to neutrophils and monocytes but not B cells. The targeting specificity of SWCNTs can potentially be adjusted by altering the ratio of MTX and siRNA loaded. The combined results show that carbon nanotubes have the potential for delivery of cargo drugs specifically to immune cells involved in rheumatoid arthritis.
Liposomal Nanosystems in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Ferreira-Silva Margarida , Faria-Silva Catarina , Viana Baptista Pedro , Fernandes Eduarda , Ramos Fernandes Alexandra , Corvo Maria Luísa
Published: March 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints and results in reduced patient quality of life due to its chronic nature and several comorbidities. RA is also associated with a high socioeconomic burden. Currently, several available therapies minimize symptoms and prevent disease progression. However, more effective treatments are needed due to current therapies’ severe side-effects, especially under long-term use. Drug delivery systems have demonstrated their clinical importance—with several nanocarriers present in the market—due to their capacity to improve therapeutic drug index, for instance, by enabling passive or active targeting. The first to achieve market authorization were liposomes that still represent a considerable part of approved delivery systems. In this manuscript, we review the role of liposomes in RA treatment, address preclinical studies and clinical trials, and discuss factors that could hamper a successful clinical translation. We also suggest some alterations that could potentially improve their progression to the market.
Integrated Efforts for the Valorization of Sweet Potato By-Products within a Circular Economy Concept: Biocomposites for Packaging Applications Close the Loop
Authors: Vannini Micaela , Marchese Paola , Sisti Laura , Saccani Andrea , Mu Taihua , Sun Hongnan , Celli Annamaria
Published: March 2021

With the aim to fully exploit the by-products obtained after the industrial extraction of starch from sweet potatoes, a cascading approach was developed to extract high-value molecules, such as proteins and pectins, and to valorize the solid fraction, rich in starch and fibrous components. This fraction was used to prepare new biocomposites designed for food packaging applications. The sweet potato residue was added to poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) in various amounts up to 40 wt % by melt mixing, without any previous treatment. The composites are semicrystalline materials, characterized by thermal stability up to 260 °C. For the composites containing up to 10 wt % of residue, the tensile strength remains over 30 MPa and the strain stays over 3.2%. A homogeneous dispersion of the sweet potato waste into the bio-polymeric matrix was achieved but, despite the presence of hydrogen bond interactions between the components, a poor interfacial adhesion was detected. Considering the significant percentage of sweet potato waste used, the biocomposites obtained show a low economic and environmental impact, resulting in an interesting bio-alternative to the materials commonly used in the packaging industry. Thus, according to the principles of a circular economy, the preparation of the biocomposites closes the loop of the complete valorization of sweet potato products and by-products.
Release and Recharge of Fluoride Ions from Acrylic Resin Modified with Bioactive Glass
Authors: Raszewski Zbigniew , Nowakowska Danuta , Wieckiewicz Wlodzimierz , Nowakowska-Toporowska Agnieszka
Published: March 2021

Background: Oral hygiene is essential for maintaining residual dentition of partial denture wearers. The dental material should positively affect the oral environment. Fluoride-releasing dental materials help to inhibit microbial colonization and formation of plaque as well as to initiate the remineralization process in the early cavity area. Aim: To evaluate fluoride ion release and recharge capacity, sorption, and solubility of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) dental resin modified with bioactive glass addition. Materials and methods: Two bioactive glass materials (5 wt% Kavitan, 10 wt% Kavitan, and 10 wt% Fritex) and pure 10 wt% NaF were added to dental acrylic resin. After polymerization of the modified resins, the release levels of fluoride anions were measured based on color complex formation by using a spectrophotometer after 7, 14, 28, and 35 days of storage in distilled water at 37 °C. Subsequently, specimens were brushed with a fluoride-containing tooth paste on each side for 30 s, and the fluoride recharge and release potential was investigated after 1, 7, and 14 days. Sorption and solubility after 7 days of storage in distilled water was also investigated. Results: The acrylic resins with addition of 10% bioactive glass materials released fluoride ions for over 4 weeks (from 0.14 to 2.27 µg/cm2). The amount of fluoride ions released from the PMMA resin with addition of 10 wt% Fritex glass was higher than that from the resin with addition of 10 wt% Kavitan. The acrylic resin containing 10 wt% NaF released a high amount of ions over a period of 1 week (1.58 µg/cm2), but the amount of released ions decreased rapidly after 14 days of storage. For specimens containing 5 wt% Kavitan glass, the ion-releasing capacity also lasted only for 14 days. Fluoride ion rechargeable properties were observed for the PMMA resin modified with addition of 10 wt% Fritex glass. The ion release levels after recharge ranged from 0.32 to 0.48 µg/cm2. Sorption values ranged from 10.23 μm/mm3 for unmodified PMMA resin to 12.11 μm/mm3 for specimens modified with 10 wt% Kavitan glass. No significant differences were found regarding solubility levels after 7 days. Conclusions: The addition of 10 wt% Fritex and 10 wt% Kavitan bioactive glass materials to heat-cured acrylic resin may improve its material properties, with bioactive fluoride ion release ability lasting for over 4 weeks. The resin modified with 10 wt% Fritex glass could absorb fluoride ions from the toothpaste solution and then effectively release them. Addition of fluoride releasing fillers have a small effect on sorption and solubility increase of the modified PMMA resin. Clinical significance: The addition of bioactive glass may be promising in the development of the novel bioactive heat-cured denture base resin.
Effects of a Twin-Screw Extruder Equipped with a Molten Resin Reservoir on the Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Recycled Waste Plastic Polyethylene Pellet Moldings
Authors: Okubo Hikaru , Kaneyasu Haruka , Kimura Tetsuya , Phanthong Patchiya , Yao Shigeru
Published: March 2021

Each year, increasing amounts of plastic waste are generated, causing environmental pollution and resource loss. Recycling is a solution, but recycled plastics often have inferior mechanical properties to virgin plastics. However, studies have shown that holding polymers in the melt state before extrusion can restore the mechanical properties; thus, we propose a twin-screw extruder with a molten resin reservoir (MSR), a cavity between the screw zone and twin-screw extruder discharge, which retains molten polymer after mixing in the twin-screw zone, thus influencing the polymer properties. Re-extruded recycled polyethylene (RPE) pellets were produced, and the tensile properties and microstructure of virgin polyethylene (PE), unextruded RPE, and re-extruded RPE moldings prepared with and without the MSR were evaluated. Crucially, the elongation at break of the MSR-extruded RPE molding was seven times higher than that of the original RPE molding, and the Young’s modulus of the MSR-extruded RPE molding was comparable to that of the virgin PE molding. Both the MSR-extruded RPE and virgin PE moldings contained similar striped lamellae. Thus, MSR re-extrusion improved the mechanical performance of recycled polymers by optimizing the microstructure. The use of MSRs will facilitate the reuse of waste plastics as value-added materials having a wide range of industrial applications.
A Comprehensive Review on Plant-Derived Mucilage: Characterization, Functional Properties, Applications, and Its Utilization for Nanocarrier Fabrication
Authors: Tosif Mansuri M. , Najda Agnieszka , Bains Aarti , Kaushik Ravinder , Dhull Sanju Bala , Chawla Prince , Walasek-Janusz Magdalena
Published: March 2021

Easily sourced mucus from various plant parts is an odorless, colorless and tasteless substance with emerging commercial potential in agriculture, food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals due to its non-toxic and biodegradable properties. It has been found that plant-derived mucilage can be used as a natural thickener or emulsifier and an alternative to synthetic polymers and additives. Because it is an invisible barrier that separates the surface from the surrounding atmosphere, it is used as edible coatings to extend the shelf life of fresh vegetables and fruits as well as many food products. In addition to its functional properties, mucilage can also be used for the production of nanocarriers. In this review, we focus on mucus extraction methods and its use as a natural preservative for fresh produce. We detailed the key properties related to the extraction and preservation of food, the mechanism of the effect of mucus on the sensory properties of products, coating methods when using mucus and its recipe for preserving fruit and vegetables. Understanding the ecological, economic and scientific factors of production and the efficiency of mucus as a multi-directional agent will open up its practical application in many industries.
Lignin-Based Phenolic Foam Reinforced by Poplar Fiber and Isocyanate-Terminated Polyurethane Prepolymer
Authors: Chen Guoliang , Liu Jian , Zhang Wei , Han Yanming , Zhang Derong , Li Jianzhang , Zhang Shifeng
Published: March 2021

Phenolic foams (PFs) are lightweight (<200 kg/m3), high-quality, and inexpensive thermal insulation materials whose heat and fire resistance are much better than those of foam plastics such as polyurethane and polystyrene. They are especially suitable for use as insulation in chemical, petroleum, construction, and other fields that are prone to fires. However, PFs have poor mechanical properties, poor abrasion resistance, and easy pulverization. In this paper, a polyurethane prepolymer was treated with an isocyanate, and then the isocyanate-terminated polyurethane prepolymer and poplar powder were used to prepare modified lignin-based phenolic foams (PUPFs), which improved the abrasion resistance and decreased the pulverization of the foam. The foam composites were comprehensively evaluated by characterizing their chemical structures, surface morphologies, mechanical properties, thermal conductivities, and flame-retardant properties. The pulverization ratio was reduced by 43.5%, and the thermal insulation performance and flame-retardancy (LOI) were improved. Compared with other methods to obtain lignin-based phenolic foam composites with anti-pulverization and flame-retardant properties, the hybrid reinforcement of foam composites with an isocyanate-terminated polyurethane prepolymer and poplar powder offers a novel strategy for an environmentally friendly alternative to the use of woody fibers.
Poly(vinyl chloride) Composites with Raspberry Pomace Filler
Authors: Mirowski Jacek , Oliwa Rafał , Oleksy Mariusz , Tomaszewska Jolanta , Ryszkowska Joanna , Budzik Grzegorz
Published: March 2021

This study examined, the effect of chemically extracted raspberry pomace on the thermal stability, mechanical properties, flammability, chemical structure and processing of poly(vinyl chloride). It was observed that the pomace in this study was used to extract naphtha, thereby permitting the removal of bio-oil as a factor preventing the obtaining of homogeneous composites. Furthermore, adding 20% raspberry pomace filler after extraction extended the thermal stability time for the composites by about 30%. It was observed that composite density, impact strength, and tensile strength values decreased significantly with increasing concentrations of filler in the PVC matrix. At the same time, their modulus of elasticity and Shore hardness increased. All tested composites were characterized by a good burning resistance with a flammability rating of V0 according to the UL94 test. Adding 20 to 40% of a natural filler to the PVC matrix made it possible to obtain composites for the production of flame resistant elements that emitted less hydrogen chloride under fire conditions while ensuring good rigidity.
Biomedical Applications of Bacteria-Derived Polymers
Authors: Hinchliffe Jonathan David , Parassini Madappura Alakananda , Syed Mohamed Syed Mohammad Daniel , Roy Ipsita
Published: March 2021

Plastics have found widespread use in the fields of cosmetic, engineering, and medical sciences due to their wide-ranging mechanical and physical properties, as well as suitability in biomedical applications. However, in the light of the environmental cost of further upscaling current methods of synthesizing many plastics, work has recently focused on the manufacture of these polymers using biological methods (often bacterial fermentation), which brings with them the advantages of both low temperature synthesis and a reduced reliance on potentially toxic and non-eco-friendly compounds. This can be seen as a boon in the biomaterials industry, where there is a need for highly bespoke, biocompatible, processable polymers with unique biological properties, for the regeneration and replacement of a large number of tissue types, following disease. However, barriers still remain to the mass-production of some of these polymers, necessitating new research. This review attempts a critical analysis of the contemporary literature concerning the use of a number of bacteria-derived polymers in the context of biomedical applications, including the biosynthetic pathways and organisms involved, as well as the challenges surrounding their mass production. This review will also consider the unique properties of these bacteria-derived polymers, contributing to bioactivity, including antibacterial properties, oxygen permittivity, and properties pertaining to cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. Finally, the review will select notable examples in literature to indicate future directions, should the aforementioned barriers be addressed, as well as improvements to current bacterial fermentation methods that could help to address these barriers.