bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Permeation of AuCl4− Across a Liquid Membrane Impregnated with A324H+Cl− Ionic Liquid
Authors: Alguacil Francisco José , López Félix A.
Published: March 2020

In the system Au(III)-HCl-A324H+Cl−, liquid-liquid extraction experiments were used to define the extraction equilibrium and the corresponding extraction constant; furthermore, the facilitated transport of this precious metal from HCl solutions across a flat-sheet supported liquid membrane was investigated using the same ionic liquid as a carrier, and as a function of different variables: hydrodynamic conditions, concentration of gold(III) (0.01–0.1 g/L), and HCl (0.5–6 M) in the feed phase, and carrier concentration (0.023–0.92 M) in the membrane. An uphill transport equation was derived considering aqueous feed boundary layer diffusion and membrane diffusion as controlling steps. The aqueous diffusional resistance (Δf) and the membrane diffusional resistance (Δm) were estimated from the proposed equation with values of 241 s/cm and 9730 s/cm, respectively. The performance of the present carrier was compared against results yielded by other ionic liquids, and the influence that other metals had on gold(III) transport from both binary or quaternary solutions was also investigated. Gold was finally recovered from receiving solutions as zero valent gold nanoparticles.
Interfacial Reactivity of the Filled Skutterudite Smy(FexNi1−x)4Sb12 in Contact with Liquid In-Based Alloys and Sn
Authors: Latronico Giovanna , Valenza Fabrizio , Carlini Riccardo , Mele Paolo , Artini Cristina
Published: March 2020

The study of the wettability of thermoelectric materials, as well as the search for the most proper brazing alloys, is of the maximum importance to get one step closer to the realization of a thermoelectric device. In this work, a wettability study of the filled skutterudite Smy(FexNi1−x)4Sb12 by Sn and In-based alloys is presented. Samples, having both p- and n- characters were prepared by the conventional melting-quenching-annealing technique and subsequently densified by spark plasma sintering (SPS). Afterward, wettability tests were performed by the sessile drop method at 773 K for 20 min. Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analyses performed on the cross-section of the solidified drops suggest quite a complicated scenario due to the coexistence and the interaction of a large number of different elements in each analyzed system. Indeed, the indication of a strong reaction of In-based alloys with skutterudite, accompanied by the formation of the InSb intermetallic compound, is clear; on the contrary, Sn exhibits a milder reactivity, and thus, a more promising behavior, being its appreciable wettability, whilst coupled to a limited reactivity.
Evaluation of the Potential Allergenicity of Strawberries in Response to Different Farming Practices
Authors: Aninowski Mateusz , Kazimierczak Renata , Hallmann Ewelina , Rachtan-Janicka Joanna , Fijoł-Adach Elżbieta , Feledyn-Szewczyk Beata , Majak Iwona , Leszczyńska Joanna
Published: March 2020

Fruit allergies are a large problem today. Many consumers suffer from food allergies or intolerances. The method of food production has a major impact on its quality. In fruit and vegetable production, three different farming systems are mainly found: conventional, integrated pest management and organic production. The latter is considered the best in terms of fruits and vegetables safety and high quality. The present experiment was performed to demonstrate the effect of the strawberry production method on its allergenic properties and flavonoid content. The strawberry ‘Honeoye’ cv. was used for the study. Fruits from the three cultivation systems, organic, conventional and integrated, were tested for their content of biologically active compounds and their potential allergenicity. The results obtained indicate that the strawberries from the organic system were the safest because they contained the lowest levels of Bet v1 and profilin in comparison with the fruits from the integrated and conventional systems.
Simultaneous Measurement of Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle Intermediates in Different Biological Matrices Using Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry; Quantitation and Comparison of TCA Cycle Intermediates in Human Serum, Plasma, Kasumi-1 Cell and Murine Liver Tissue
Authors: Rathod Ramji , Gajera Bharat , Nazir Kenneth , Wallenius Janne , Velagapudi Vidya
Published: March 2020

The tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle is a central part of carbon and energy metabolism, also connecting to glycolysis, amino acid, and lipid metabolism. The quantitation of the TCA cycle intermediate within one method is lucrative due to the interest in central carbon metabolism profiling in cells and tissues. In addition, TCA cycle intermediates in serum have been discovered to correspond as biomarkers to various underlying pathological conditions. In this work, an Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry-based quantification method is developed and validated, which takes advantage of fast, specific, sensitive, and cost-efficient precipitation extraction. Chromatographic separation is achieved while using Atlantis dC18 2.1 mm × 100 mm, particle size 3-μm of Waters column with a gradient elution mobile phase while using formic acid in water (0.1% v/v) and acetonitrile. Linearity was clearly seen over a calibration range of: 6.25 to 6400 ng/mL (r2 > 0.980) for malic acid; 11.72 to 12,000 ng/mL (r2 > 0.980) for cis-aconitic acid and L-aspartic acid; 29.30 to 30,000 ng/mL (r2 > 0.980) for isocitric acid, l-serine, and l-glutamic acid; 122.07 to 125,000 ng/mL (r2 > 0.980) for citric acid, glycine, oxo-glutaric acid, l-alanine, and l-glutamine; 527.34 to 540,000 ng/mL (r2 > 0.980) for l-lactic acid; 976.56 to 1,000,000 ng/mL (r2 > 0.980) for d-glucose; 23.44 to 24,000 ng/mL (r2 > 0.980) for fumaric acid and succinic acid; and, 244.14 to 250,000 ng/mL (r2 > 0.980) for pyruvic acid. Validation was carried out, as per European Medicines Agency (EMA) “guidelines on bioanalytical method validation”, for linearity, precision, accuracy, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LLOQ), recovery, matrix effect, and stability. The recoveries from serum and tissue were 79–119% and 77–223%, respectively. Using this method, we measured TCA intermediates in serum, plasma (NIST 1950 SRM), and in mouse liver samples. The concentration found in NIST SRM 1950 (n = 6) of glycine (246.4 µmol/L), l-alanine (302.4 µmol/L), and serine (92.9 µmol/L).
Microfluidic Device for Microinjection of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Ghaemi Reza , Tong Justin , Gupta Bhagwati P. , Selvaganapathy P. Ravi
Published: March 2020

Microinjection is an established and reliable method to deliver transgenic constructs and other reagents to specific locations in C. elegans worms. Specifically, microinjection of a desired DNA construct into the distal gonad is the most widely used method to generate germ-line transformation of C. elegans. Although, current C. elegans microinjection method is effective to produce transgenic worms, it requires expensive multi degree of freedom (DOF) micromanipulator, careful injection alignment procedure and skilled operator, all of which make it slow and not suitable for scaling to high throughput. A few microfabricated microinjectors have been developed recently to address these issues. However, none of them are capable of immobilizing a freely mobile animal such as C. elegans worm using a passive immobilization mechanism. Here, a microfluidic microinjector was developed to passively immobilize a freely mobile animal such as C. elegans and simultaneously perform microinjection by using a simple and fast mechanism for needle actuation. The entire process of the microinjection takes ~30 s which includes 10 s for worm loading and aligning, 5 s needle penetration, 5 s reagent injection and 5 s worm unloading. The device is suitable for high-throughput and can be potentially used for creating transgenic C. elegans.
Optical Detection Method for High Aspect Ratio Microstructures
Authors: Wei Wenbin , Hou Shuangyue , Wu Zhao , Hu Yue , Wang Yi , Chen Lijuan , Xiong Ying , Tian Yangchao , Liu Gang
Published: March 2020

High aspect ratio microstructures (HARMS) are of great importance for many application fields. Many defects are generated during the fabrication processes, especially in line microstructures, and it is necessary to examine the quality of the structures after each process. However, there is no suitable efficient nondestructive detection method to monitor microstructures during the fabrication processes. In this paper, an optical detection method capable of detecting the structures by analyzing the reflection of light on the line HARMS is proposed. According to the image of reflected visible light, this method can determine whether there are defects in structures, so as to realize efficient detection. Preliminary simulations and experiments have been performed to confirm the feasibility and validity of the proposed method for detecting line microstructures. This method is expected to obtain more information about microstructures by further optimizing system parameters.
A Novel Lactic Acid Bacteria Mixture: Macrophage-Targeted Prophylactic Intervention in Colorectal Cancer Management
Authors: Hradicka Petra , Beal Jane , Kassayova Monika , Foey Andrew , Demeckova Vlasta
Published: March 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common forms of cancer. Its onset from chronic inflammation is widely accepted. Moreover, dysbiosis plays an undeniable role, thus the use of probiotics in CRC has been suggested. They exhibit both anti- and pro-inflammatory properties and restore balance in the microbiota. The aim of this study was to investigate the immunomodulatory properties of six lactobacilli with probiotic features in an in vitro model of macrophage-like cells and to test these pooled probiotics for their anti-tumour properties in a chemically induced CRC model using Wistar male rats. Upon co-culture of M1- and M2-like macrophages with lactobacilli, cytokine release (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18, IL-23) and phagocytic activity using fluorescent-labelled bacteria were tested. The effects of orally administered probiotics on basic cancer and immune parameters and cytokine concentration (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18) in colon tumours were studied. Tested lactobacilli exhibited both pro- and anti-inflammatory properties in in vitro conditions. In vivo study showed that the administration of probiotics was able to decrease multiplicity, volume and total tumour numbers, restore colon length (p < 0.05) and increase IL-18 production (p < 0.05) in tumour tissue. These data indicate both an immunomodulatory effect of probiotics on distinct macrophage subsets and a protective effect against chemically-induced CRC.
Human Herpesvirus 8 and Host-Cell Interaction: Long-Lasting Physiological Modifications, Inflammation and Related Chronic Diseases
Authors: Angius Fabrizio , Ingianni Angela , Pompei Raffaello
Published: March 2020

Oncogenic and latent-persistent viruses belonging to both DNA and RNA groups are known to cause serious metabolism alterations. Among these, the Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV8) infection induces stable modifications in biochemistry and cellular metabolism, which in turn affect its own pathological properties. HHV8 enhances the expression of insulin receptors, supports the accumulation of neutral lipids in cytoplasmic lipid droplets and induces alterations in both triglycerides and cholesterol metabolism in endothelial cells. In addition, HHV8 is also known to modify immune response and cytokine production with implications for cell oxidative status (i.e., reactive oxygen species activation). This review underlines the recent findings regarding the role of latent and persistent HHV8 viral infection in host physiology and pathogenesis.
Screening of Bacteriocinogenic Lactic Acid Bacteria and Their Characterization as Potential Probiotics
Authors: Pinto Ana , Barbosa Joana , Albano Helena , Isidro Joana , Teixeira Paula
Published: March 2020

Probiotics are living microorganisms used as nutritional additives that confer health benefits on the host. Their use in food products is very attractive, especially if they could also inhibit important foodborne pathogens. In this study, antimicrobial activity against several foodborne pathogens was screened for 280 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from different food products and the probiotic characteristics of bacteriocinogenic isolates were evaluated. Seven out of 280 LAB isolates were selected due to their bacteriocinogenic properties and identified by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis as Pediococcus pentosaceus (n = 6) and Lactobacillus plantarum (n = 1). Virulence factors and antibiotic resistances were not detected for any of the isolates. Except for L. plantarum R23, all the isolates were able to survive through the simulated gastrointestinal tract conditions. Only P. pentosaceus CFF4 was able to adhere to Caco-2 cells after the simulated gastrointestinal tract passage. In conclusion, even though in vivo studies should be performed, P. pentosaceus CFF4, which was also able to inhibit the growth of foodborne pathogens in vitro, seems to be a potential probiotic to be used in the food industry.
Propionate Converting Anaerobic Microbial Communities Enriched from Distinct Biogeochemical Zones of Aarhus Bay, Denmark under Sulfidogenic and Methanogenic Conditions
Authors: Ozuolmez Derya , Stams Alfons J. M. , Plugge Caroline M.
Published: March 2020

The relationship between predominant physiological types of prokaryotes in marine sediments and propionate degradation through sulfate reduction, fermentation, and methanogenesis was studied in marine sediments. Propionate conversion was assessed in slurries containing sediment from three different biogeochemical zones of Aarhus Bay, Denmark. Sediment slurries were amended with 0, 3, or 20 mM sulfate and incubated at 25 °C and 10 °C for 514–571 days. Methanogenesis in the sulfate zone and sulfate reduction in the methane zone slurries was observed. Both processes occurred simultaneously in enrichments originating from samples along the whole sediment. Bacterial community analysis revealed the dominance of Desulfobacteraceae and Desulfobulbaceae members in sulfate-amended slurries incubated at 25°C and 10°C. Cryptanaerobacter belonging to the Peptococcaceae family dominated sulfate-free methanogenic slurries at 25°C, whereas bacteria related to Desulfobacteraceae were dominant at 10°C. Archaeal community analysis revealed the prevalence of different genera belonging to Methanomicrobiales in slurries incubated at different temperatures and amended with different sulfate concentrations. Methanosarcinaceae were only detected in the absence of sulfate. In summary, Aarhus Bay sediment zones contain sulfate reducers, syntrophs, and methanogens interacting with each other in the conversion of propionate. Our results indicate that in Aarhus Bay sediments, Cryptanaerobacter degraded propionate in syntrophic association with methanogens.
Heat Shock Protein DnaJ in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Affects Biofilm Formation via Pyocyanin Production
Authors: Zeng Bo , Wang Chong , Zhang Pansong , Guo Zisheng , Chen Lin , Duan Kangmin
Published: March 2020

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) play important biological roles, and they are implicated in bacterial response to environmental stresses and in pathogenesis of infection. The role of HSPs in P. aeruginosa, however, remains to be fully elucidated. Here, we report the unique role of HSP DnaJ in biofilm formation and pathogenicity in P. aeruginosa. A dnaJ mutant produced hardly any pyocyanin and formed significantly less biofilms, which contributed to decreased pathogenicity as demonstrated by reduced mortality rate in a Drosophila melanogaster infection model. The reduced pyocyanin production in the dnaJ mutant was a result of the decreased transcription of phenazine synthesis operons including phzA1, phzA2, phzS, and phzM. The reduction of biofilm formation and initial adhesion in the dnaJ mutant could be reversed by exogenously added pyocyanin or extracellular DNA (eDNA). Consistent with such observations, absence of dnaJ significantly reduced the release of eDNA in P. aeruginosa and addition of exogenous pyocyanin could restore eDNA release. These results indicate dnaJ mutation caused reduced pyocyanin production, which in turn caused the decreased eDNA, resulting in decreased biofilm formation. DnaJ is required for pyocyanin production and full virulence in P. aeruginosa; it affects biofilm formation and initial adhesion via pyocyanin, inducing eDNA release.
Clay Minerals in European Painting of the Mediaeval and Baroque Periods
Authors: Hradil David , Hradilová Janka , Bezdička Petr
Published: March 2020

Clay-based pigments are among the most traditional. Unlike other mineral pigments, they have never been fully replaced by synthetic analogues and are still used in painting today. Since their analysis requires a specific approach, detailed distinction of clay pigments has never been a part of routine chemical-technological research in fine arts—regardless of a great potential of clay minerals for determining regional provenance of the material. This review article maps and summarizes research on clay pigments in historical paintings that has been systematically pursued by authors since the beginning of this millennium. This rallying and interconnection of knowledge was an opportunity for a new reflection on the common aspects of these research projects, either methodological or interdisciplinary, since these findings are closely related to art-historical evaluation of artworks. It offers a comprehensive insight into the microanalysis of clay pigments with using powder X-ray micro-diffraction and complementary methods. Significant new findings come, for example, from research on the Italian Baroque. It becomes clear that cheap availability of raw material, pottery clays, could have played an important role in the change in painting technology at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries.
Transparent Platinum Counter Electrode Prepared by Polyol Reduction for Bifacial, Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Ghifari Alvien , Long Dang Xuan , Kim Seonhyoung , Ma Brian , Hong Jongin
Published: March 2020

Pt catalytic nanoparticles on F-doped SnO2/glass substrates were prepared by polyol reduction below 200 °C. The polyol reduction resulted in better transparency of the counter electrode and high power-conversion efficiency (PCE) of the resultant dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) compared to conventional thermal reduction. The PCEs of the DSSCs with 5 μm-thick TiO2 photoanodes were 6.55% and 5.01% under front and back illumination conditions, respectively. The back/front efficiency ratio is very promising for efficient bifacial DSSCs.
Effect of Carbon Support, Capping Agent Amount, and Pd NPs Size for Bio-Adipic Acid Production from Muconic Acid and Sodium Muconate
Authors: Capelli Sofia , Motta Davide , Evangelisti Claudio , Dimitratos Nikolaos , Prati Laura , Pirola Carlo , Villa Alberto
Published: March 2020

The effect of support, stabilizing agent, and Pd nanoparticles (NPs) size was studied for sodium muconate and t,t-muconic acid hydrogenation to bio-adipic acid. Three different activated carbons (AC) were used (Norit, KB, and G60) and carbon morphology did not affect the substrate conversion, but it greatly influenced the adipic acid yield. 1% Pd/KB Darco catalyst, which has the highest surface area and Pd surface exposure, and the smallest NPs size displayed the highest activity. Furthermore, the effect of the amount of the protective agent was studied varying metal/protective agent weight ratios in the range of 1/0.00–1/1.20, using KB as the chosen support. For sodium muconate reduction 1% Pd/KB_1.2 catalyst gave the best results in terms of activity (0.73 s−1), conversion, and adipic acid yield (94.8%), while for t,t-muconic acid hydrogenation the best activity result (0.85 s−1) was obtained with 1% Pd/KB_0.0 catalyst. Correlating the results obtained from XPS and TEM analyses with catalytic results, we found that the amount of PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) influences mean Pd NPs size, Pd(0)/Pd(II) ratio, and Pd surface exposure. Pd(0)/Pd(II) ratio and Pd NPs size affected adipic acid yield and activity during sodium muconate hydrogenation, respectively, while adipic acid yield was related by exposed Pd amount during t,t-muconic acid hydrogenation. The synthesized catalysts showed higher activity than commercial 5% Pd/AC.
Electrospun Active Biopapers of Food Waste Derived Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) with Short-Term and Long-Term Antimicrobial Performance
Authors: Figueroa-Lopez Kelly J. , Torres-Giner Sergio , Enescu Daniela , Cabedo Luis , Cerqueira Miguel A. , Pastrana Lorenzo M. , Lagaron Jose M.
Published: March 2020

This research reports about the development by electrospinning of fiber-based films made of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) derived from fermented fruit waste, so-called bio-papers, with enhanced antimicrobial performance. To this end, different combinations of oregano essential oil (OEO) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were added to PHBV solutions and electrospun into mats that were, thereafter, converted into homogeneous and continuous films of ~130 μm. The morphology, optical, thermal, mechanical properties, crystallinity, and migration into food simulants of the resultant PHBV-based bio-papers were evaluated and their antimicrobial properties were assessed against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) in both open and closed systems. It was observed that the antimicrobial activity decreased after 15 days due to the release of the volatile compounds, whereas the bio-papers filled with ZnONPs showed high antimicrobial activity for up to 48 days. The electrospun PHBV biopapers containing 2.5 wt% OEO + 2.25 wt% ZnONPs successfully provided the most optimal activity for short and long periods against both bacteria.
Improving Electrochemical Properties of Polypyrrole Coatings by Graphene Oxide and Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Rosas-Laverde Nelly Maria , Pruna Alina , Busquets-Mataix David
Published: March 2020

Nanostructured polypyrrole coating was applied on carbon paper via simple dip-coating and electrochemical approach. Hybridization with nanocarbon materials (graphene oxide (GO) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)) and their effect as an anchoring hybrid layer for the growth of polypyrrole towards improving electrochemical properties are studied. The loading of each component and their w/w ratio were evaluated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy were employed to characterize the properties of the coatings. The electrochemical properties were investigated by cyclic voltammetry. The results indicated the electrodeposition of polypyrrole is enhanced by the addition of MWCNTs to the GO layer due to the formation of a hierarchical network. The electrochemical performance of the modified electrode was shown to be highly dependent on the employed w/w ratio, reaching a capacitance value of about 40 mF cm−2 for a carbon paper substrate modified with GO:MWCNT in a w/w ratio of 1:2.5 and PPy layer deposited by cyclic voltammetry for 30 cycles. The contribution to total stored charge was found to be primary from the inner capacitance component of about 95.5% contribution.
Pure Acetylene Semihydrogenation over Ni–Cu Bimetallic Catalysts: Effect of the Cu/Ni Ratio on Catalytic Performance
Authors: Zhou Shuzhen , Kang Lihua , Zhou Xuening , Xu Zhu , Zhu Mingyuan
Published: March 2020

Ethylene is an important chemical raw material and with the increasing consumption of petroleum resources, the production of ethylene through the calcium carbide acetylene route has important research significance. In this work, a series of bimetallic catalysts with different Cu/Ni molar ratios are prepared by co-impregnation method for the hydrogenation of calcium carbide acetylene to ethylene. The introduction of an appropriate amount of Cu effectively inhibits not only the formation of ethane and green oil, thus increasing the selectivity of ethylene, but also the formation of carbon deposits, which improves the stability of the catalyst. The ethylene selectivity of the Ni–Cu bimetallic catalyst increases from 45% to 63% compared with the Ni monometallic counterpart and the acetylene conversion still can reach 100% at the optimal conditions of 250 °C, 8000 mL·g−1·h−1 and V(H2)/V(C2H2) = 3. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy confirmed that the metal particles were highly dispersed on the support, High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and H2-Temperature programmed reduction proved that there was an interaction between Ni and Cu, combined with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations results, Cu transferred electrons to Ni changed the Ni electron cloud density in NiCux catalysts, thus reducing the adsorption of acetylene and ethylene, which is favorable to ethylene selectivity.
Rapid Microwave-Assisted Cisplatin-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization and Anticancer Study
Authors: Aldawsari Hibah M. , Singh Sima
Published: March 2020

Cisplatin is one of the most leading potent chemotherapy drugs prescribed for the treatment of most solid tumors. However, the induction of toxicities and the development of resistance restricts its applications. Efforts are made in the proposed study to control the delivery of cisplatin to tumor sites by incorporating it into solid lipid nanoparticle (SLNs) drug carriers. By considering this fact, in the current research work, a single-step, one-pot, microwave-assisted technology was used to produce cisplatin-loaded SLNs. The shape of the SLNs was observed to be spherical, with a uniform size distribution of 74.85 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.311, and zeta potential of −20.8 mV. The percentage of encapsulation efficiency was found to be 71.85%. In vitro drug release study was calculated to be 80% in 24 h. The formulation in blood was found to be safe; a study of hemolysis confirmed this. Breast cancer cell line MCF-7 was used to test cytotoxicity and cellular interaction of cisplatin-loaded SLNs with an IC50 value of 6.51 ± 0.39 μg/mL. Overall, the results of our findings show that the approach of SLNs-based, cisplatin-based, drug delivery has led to increased sustainability in breast cancer therapy with superior biocompatibility.
Gold Nanoparticle Self-Aggregation on Surface with 1,6-Hexanedithiol Functionalization
Authors: Stetsenko Maksym , Margitych Tetiana , Kryvyi Serhii , Maksimenko Lidia , Hassan Ali , Filonenko Svitlana , Li Βaikui , Qu Junle , Scheer Elke , Snegir Sergii
Published: March 2020

Here we study the morphology and the optical properties of assemblies made of small (17 nm) gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) directly on silicon wafers coated with (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (APTES). We employed aliphatic 1,6-hexanedithiol (HDT) molecules to cross-link AuNPs during a two-stage precipitation procedure. The first immersion of the wafer in AuNP colloidal solution led mainly to the attachment of single particles with few inclusions of dimers and small aggregates. After the functionalization of precipitated NPs with HDT and after the second immersion in the colloidal solution of AuNP, we detected a sharp rise in the number of aggregates compared to single AuNPs and their dimers. The lateral size of the aggregates was about 100 nm, while some of them were larger than 1μm. We propose that the uncompensated dipole moment of the small aggregates appeared after the first precipitation and acts further as the driving force accelerating their further growth on the surface during the second precipitation. By having such inhomogeneous surface coating, the X-ray reciprocal space maps and modulation polarimetry showed well-distinguished signals from the single AuNPs and their dimers. From these observations, we concluded that the contribution from aggregated AuNPs does not hamper the detection and investigation of plasmonic effects for AuNP dimers. Meantime, using unpolarized and polarized light spectroscopy, the difference in the optical signals between the dimers, being formed because of self-aggregation and the one being cross-linked by means of HDT, was not detected.
Layered Nano-Sheets: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Paramsothy Muralidharan
Published: March 2020

Extraordinary physical and chemical properties are enabled by two dimensional (2D) anisotropy and confinement effects in layered nano-sheet materials [...]
The Fate of Lipid-Coated and Uncoated Fluorescent Nanodiamonds during Cell Division in Yeast
Authors: Morita Aryan , Hamoh Thamir , Perona Martinez Felipe P. , Chipaux Mayeul , Sigaeva Alina , Mignon Charles , van der Laan Kiran J. , Hochstetter Axel , Schirhagl Romana
Published: March 2020

Fluorescent nanodiamonds are frequently used as biolabels. They have also recently been established for magnetic resonance and temperature sensing at the nanoscale level. To properly use them in cell biology, we first have to understand their intracellular fate. Here, we investigated, for the first time, what happens to diamond particles during and after cell division in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) cells. More concretely, our goal was to answer the question of whether nanodiamonds remain in the mother cells or end up in the daughter cells. Yeast cells are widely used as a model organism in aging and biotechnology research, and they are particularly interesting because their asymmetric cell division leads to morphologically different mother and daughter cells. Although yeast cells have a mechanism to prevent potentially harmful substances from entering the daughter cells, we found an increased number of diamond particles in daughter cells. Additionally, we found substantial excretion of particles, which has not been reported for mammalian cells. We also investigated what types of movement diamond particles undergo in the cells. Finally, we also compared bare nanodiamonds with lipid-coated diamonds, and there were no significant differences in respect to either movement or intracellular fate.
Low-Power Flexible Organic Field-Effect Transistors with Solution-Processable Polymer-Ceramic Nanoparticle Composite Dielectrics
Authors: Chen Xiong , Zhang Hao , Zhang Yu , Guan Xiangfeng , Zhang Zitong , Chen Dagui
Published: March 2020

Polymer-ceramic dielectric composites have been of great interest because they combine the processability of polymers with the desired dielectric properties of the ceramics. We fabricated a low voltage-operated flexible organic field-effect transistor (OFET) based on crosslinked poly (4-vinyl phenol) (PVP) polymer blended with novel ceramic calcium titanate nanoparticles (CaTiO3 NPs) as gate dielectric. To reduce interface roughness caused by nanoparticles, it was further coated with a very thin PVP film. The resulting OFET exhibited much lower operated voltage (reducing from –10.5 V to –2.9 V), a relatively steeper threshold slope (~0.8 V/dec) than those containing a pure PVP dielectric. This is ascribed to the high capacitance of the CaTiO3 NP-filled PVP insulator, and its smoother and hydrophobic dielectric surface proved by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and a water contact angle test. We also evaluated the transistor properties in a compressed state. The corresponding device had no significant degradation in performance when bending at various diameters. In particular, it operated well continuously for 120 hours during a constant bending stress. We believe that this technology will be instrumental in the development of future flexible and printed electronic applications.
α-Linolenic Acid-Rich Diet Influences Microbiota Composition and Villus Morphology of the Mouse Small Intestine
Authors: Todorov Hristo , Kollar Bettina , Bayer Franziska , Brandão Inês , Mann Amrit , Mohr Julia , Pontarollo Giulia , Formes Henning , Stauber Roland , Kittner Jens M. , Endres Kristina , Watzer Bernhard , Nockher Wolfgang Andreas , Sommer Felix , Gerber Susanne , Reinhardt Christoph
Published: March 2020

α-Linolenic acid (ALA) is well-known for its anti-inflammatory activity. In contrast, the influence of an ALA-rich diet on intestinal microbiota composition and its impact on small intestine morphology are not fully understood. In the current study, we kept adult C57BL/6J mice for 4 weeks on an ALA-rich or control diet. Characterization of the microbial composition of the small intestine revealed that the ALA diet was associated with an enrichment in Prevotella and Parabacteroides. In contrast, taxa belonging to the Firmicutes phylum, including Lactobacillus, Clostridium cluster XIVa, Lachnospiraceae and Streptococcus, had significantly lower abundance compared to control diet. Metagenome prediction indicated an enrichment in functional pathways such as bacterial secretion system in the ALA group, whereas the two-component system and ALA metabolism pathways were downregulated. We also observed increased levels of ALA and its metabolites eicosapentanoic and docosahexanoic acid, but reduced levels of arachidonic acid in the intestinal tissue of ALA-fed mice. Furthermore, intestinal morphology in the ALA group was characterized by elongated villus structures with increased counts of epithelial cells and reduced epithelial proliferation rate. Interestingly, the ALA diet reduced relative goblet and Paneth cell counts. Of note, high-fat Western-type diet feeding resulted in a comparable adaptation of the small intestine. Collectively, our study demonstrates the impact of ALA on the gut microbiome and reveals the nutritional regulation of gut morphology.
The Role of Parents and Children in Meal Selection and Consumption in Quick Service Restaurants
Authors: Cohen Juliana F.W. , Rimm Eric B. , Davison Kirsten K. , Cash Sean B. , McInnis Kyle , Economos Christina D.
Published: March 2020

Children regularly consume foods from quick service restaurants (QSRs) in the United States, but little is known about how ordering decisions are made and the impact on selection and consumption. A total of n = 218 parents dining with a child (ages 4–16 years) inside a participating QSR completed interviews and demographic surveys and provided their child’s leftover foods at the end of the meal. Children’s meal consumption was measured using plate-waste methodology. The majority of children selected their meal without parental involvement (80%) and decided what to order prior to entering the QSR (63%). Using mixed-model analysis of variance, children selected and consumed significantly fewer calories and less total fat and sodium when a parent ordered the meal compared with when the child ordered the meal alone. There were no significant differences in selection or consumption when a parent and child ordered the meal together. Approximately one-third of the children consumed foods that were shared. In conclusion, because children primarily select foods without parental involvement and prior to entering QSRs, innovative strategies are needed to influence ordering decisions inside QSRs toward healthier options. Additionally, because food is frequently shared, policies that only focus on children’s menus may not be as effective in impacting children’s dietary intake.
Glycolate is a Novel Marker of Vitamin B2 Deficiency Involved in Gut Microbe Metabolism in Mice
Authors: Uebanso Takashi , Yoshimoto Ayumi , Aizawa Shinta , Nakamura Maya , Masuda Rumiko , Shimohata Takaaki , Mawatari Kazuaki , Takahashi Akira
Published: March 2020

Microbes in the human gut play a role in the production of bioactive compounds, including some vitamins. Although several studies attempted to identify definitive markers for certain vitamin deficiencies, the role of gut microbiota in these deficiencies is unclear. To investigate the role of gut microbiota in deficiencies of four vitamins, B2, B6, folate, and B12, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of metabolites in mice treated and untreated with antibiotics. We identified glycolate (GA) as a novel marker of vitamin B2 (VB2) deficiency, and show that gut microbiota sense dietary VB2 deficiency and accumulate GA in response. The plasma GA concentration responded to reduced VB2 supply from both the gut microbiota and the diet. These results suggest that GA is a novel marker that can be used to assess whether or not the net supply of VB2 from dietary sources and gut microbiota is sufficient. We also found that gut microbiota can provide short-term compensation for host VB2 deficiency when dietary VB2 is withheld.
Exploring the Comparative Efficacy of Metformin and Resveratrol in the Management of Diabetes-Associated Complications: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Studies
Authors: Dludla Phiwayinkosi V. , Silvestri Sonia , Orlando Patrick , Gabuza Kwazi B. , Mazibuko-Mbeje Sithandiwe E. , Nyambuya Tawanda M. , Mxinwa Vuyolwethu , Mokgalaboni Kabelo , Johnson Rabia , Muller Christo J. F. , Tiano Luca , Louw Johan , Nkambule Bongani B.
Published: March 2020

Food-derived bioactive compounds such as resveratrol are increasingly explored for their protective effects against metabolic complications. Evidence supports the strong antioxidant properties and therapeutic effects of resveratrol in managing diabetes and its associated complications. However, evidence informing on the comparative or combination effects of this natural compound with an accomplished and well-characterized antidiabetic agent like metformin has not been revised. Thus, we conducted a comprehensive systematic search of the major electronic databases which included MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE. The cumulative evidence strongly supports the comparative effects of metformin and resveratrol in ameliorating diabetes-associated complications in preclinical settings. In particular, both compounds showed strong ameliorative effects against hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, a pro-inflammatory response, and lipid peroxidation in various experimental models of diabetes. Enhancing intracellular antioxidant capacity in addition to activating NAD-dependent deacetylase sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) are the prime mechanisms involved in the therapeutic effects of these compounds. Of interest, preclinical evidence also demonstrates that the combination treatment with these compounds may have a greater efficacy in protecting against diabetes. Thus, confirmation of such evidence in well-organized clinical trials remains crucial to uncover novel therapeutic strategies to manage diabetes and its linked complications.
ADORA2A C Allele Carriers Exhibit Ergogenic Responses to Caffeine Supplementation
Authors: Grgic Jozo , Pickering Craig , Bishop David J. , Del Coso Juan , Schoenfeld Brad J. , Tinsley Grant M. , Pedisic Zeljko
Published: March 2020

Caffeine’s ergogenic effects on exercise performance are generally explained by its ability to bind to adenosine receptors. ADORA2A is the gene that encodes A2A subtypes of adenosine receptors. It has been suggested that ADORA2A gene polymorphisms may be responsible for the inter-individual variations in the effects of caffeine on exercise performance. In the only study that explored the influence of variation in ADORA2A—in this case, a common polymorphism (rs5751876)—on the ergogenic effects of caffeine on exercise performance, C allele carriers were identified as “non-responders” to caffeine. To explore if C allele carriers are true “non-responders” to the ergogenic effects of caffeine, in this randomized, double-blind study, we examined the acute effects of caffeine ingestion among a sample consisting exclusively of ADORA2A C allele carriers. Twenty resistance-trained men identified as ADORA2A C allele carriers (CC/CT genotype) were tested on two occasions, following the ingestion of caffeine (3 mg/kg) and a placebo. Exercise performance was evaluated with movement velocity, power output, and muscle endurance during the bench press exercise, countermovement jump height, and power output during a Wingate test. Out of the 25 analyzed variables, caffeine was ergogenic in 21 (effect size range: 0.14 to 0.96). In conclusion, ADORA2A (rs5751876) C allele carriers exhibited ergogenic responses to caffeine ingestion, with the magnitude of improvements similar to what was previously reported in the literature among samples that were not genotype-specific. Therefore, individuals with the CT/CC genotype may still consider supplementing with caffeine for acute improvements in performance.
The Relation between Eating Habits and Abdominal Fat, Anthropometry, PON1 and IL-6 Levels in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Drehmer Eraci , Platero Jose Luis , Carrera-Juliá Sandra , Moreno Mari Luz , Tvarijonaviciute Asta , Navarro Marí Ángeles , López-Rodríguez María Mar , Ortí Jose Enrique de la Rubia
Published: March 2020

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease of an inflammatory, demyelinating and autoimmune nature. Diets with a high caloric density could be especially relevant in terms of the pathogenesis related to an increase in adipose tissue that is metabolically active and releases mediators, which can induce systemic inflammation and an increased oxidation state. The aim of this study was to analyse the eating habits related to calorie intake and their impact on abdominal obesity associated with anthropometric variables, the activity of the oxidation marker paraoxonase 1 (PON1), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) levelsin MS patients. Methods: An analytical and quantitative observational study was conducted with a population of 57 MS patients. The dietary-nutritional anamnesis was gained through the Food Frequency Questionnaire and a food diary. Diet and eating habits have been analysed through the Easy Diet–Programa de gestión de la consulta® software. Anthropometric measurements were taken in order to determine the presence of abdominal obesity. In addition, PON1 was quantified in serum by means of automated spectrophotometric assays and IL-6 was quantified using the ELISA technique. Results: A normal calorie intake was determined for women, yet a slightly lower intake was observed in men. Carbohydrate consumption was below what was established, and protein and lipids were over, in both cases. Furthermore, most patients had abdominal obesity, with significantly higher body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), fat percentage and IL-6 levels. IL-6 is greatly correlated with waist circumference and WHtR. Conclusion: MS patients’ nutrient intake shows an imbalance between macronutrients. This seems to favour the abdominal obesity associated with high values of proinflammatory IL-6 that is not correlated with a lower activity of PON1.
Association between Health-Related Quality of Life and Nutritional Status in Adult Patients with Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Cioffi Iolanda , Imperatore Nicola , Di Vincenzo Olivia , Santarpia Lidia , Rispo Antonio , Marra Maurizio , Testa Anna , Contaldo Franco , Castiglione Fabiana , Pasanisi Fabrizio
Published: March 2020

This study aimed to assess health related quality of life (HRQoL) in adult patients with Crohn’s disease (CD), considering disease severity and gender differences, and also its relationship with nutritional status. Consecutive adult patients aged 18–65 years with CD were recruited. Disease activity was clinically defined by the Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (CDAI) in active and quiescent phases. HRQoL was evaluated using the validated short form (SF)-36 questionnaire for the Italian population. Additionally, anthropometry, bioimpedance analysis, and handgrip-strength (HGS) were performed. Findings showed that 135 patients (79 men and 56 women) were included, having a mean age of 38.8 ± 14 years and a BMI of 23.2 ± 3.7 kg/m2. Overall, active CD patients had a lower perception of their QoL compared to those clinically quiescent, while gender differences emerged mostly in the quiescent group. Interestingly, HRQoL was significantly associated with many nutritional variables, and muscle strength was the main predictor. Therefore, HRQoL is perceived lower in active compared to quiescent patients, but women experienced poorer QoL than men, especially in the quiescent phase. Finally, higher QoL scores were found in subjects being in clinical remission phase with a preserved muscle function. However, further studies are still required to verify these findings.
Dietary-Lifestyle Patterns Associated with Adiposity and Metabolic Abnormalities in Adult Men under 40 Years Old: A Cross-Sectional Study (MeDiSH Project)
Authors: Lonnie Marta , Wadolowska Lidia , Bandurska-Stankiewicz Elzbieta
Published: March 2020

The aim of this study was to examine the associations of dietary-lifestyle patterns (DLPs) with adiposity and metabolic abnormalities in adult Polish men that were under 40. The cross-sectional study included 358 men that were 19–40-year-old. Dietary and lifestyle data were collected with multicomponent food frequency questionnaire (KomPAN®). DPLs were derived with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) using 25 dietary and six lifestyle as the input variables. Adiposity was determined with the use of: overweight (body mass index 25–29.9 kg/m2), central obesity (waist-to-height ratio ≥ 0.5), general obesity (body fat ≥ 25%), excessive visceral fat tissue (≥ median), and increased skeletal muscle mass (≥ median). The metabolic abnormalities were characterised by elevated: fasting blood glucose (FBG ≥ 100 mg/dL), triglycerides (TG ≥ 150 mg/dL), total cholesterol (TC ≥ 200 mg/dL), or systolic or diastolic blood pressure (≥ 130 or ≥ 85 mmHg, respectively). Four PCA-driven DLPs were derived and labelled accordingly to the most characteristic dietary or lifestyle behaviours that were correlated with each pattern. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that higher adherence (upper vs. bottom tertile as referent) to “Protein food, fried-food, and recreational physical activity” pattern was associated with higher odds of overweight and increased skeletal muscle mass, and lower odds of: general obesity, excessive visceral fat tissue, and elevated TC. Higher adherence to “Healthy diet, active, past smokers” pattern was associated with higher odds of overweight and lower odds of: general obesity, excessive visceral fat tissue, and elevated FBG. Higher adherence to “Sandwiches and convenient diet” pattern was associated with higher odds of: central obesity, general obesity, excessive visceral fat tissue, elevated TC, elevated TG, occurrence at least two metabolic abnormalities, and lower odds of increased skeletal muscle mass. A higher adherence to “Fast foods and stimulants” pattern was associated with higher odds of central obesity, general obesity, excessive visceral fat tissue, and lower odds of increased skeletal muscle mass. The interrelations between diet and lifestyle behaviours were reflected in three out of four patterns. Healthy diet attempts combined with active lifestyle was associated with reduced risk of adiposity and metabolic abnormalities despite some unhealthy components, like former smoking or fried-food consumption. In contrary, patterns that were composed of undesirable dietary behaviours solely, as well as poor diet combined with stimulant use, were associated with higher adiposity and worse metabolic health, despite the relatively young age of the study participants. Accurate mapping of dietary-lifestyle behaviours can serve as a tool for formulating evidence-based recommendations.