bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Quinoline-Sulfonamide Complexes (M2+) Derivatives with Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Diaconu Dumitrela , Mangalagiu Violeta , Amariucai-Mantu Dorina , Antoci Vasilichia , Giuroiu Cristian Levente , Mangalagiu Ionel I.
Published: June 2020

Two new series of hybrid quinoline-sulfonamide complexes (M2+: Zn2+, Cu2+, Co2+ and Cd2+) derivatives (QSC) were designed, synthesized and tested for their antimicrobial activity. The synthesis is straightforward and efficient, involving two steps: acylation of aminoquinoline followed by complexation with metal acetate (Cu2+, Co2+ and Cd2+) or chloride (Zn2+). The synthesized QSC compounds were characterized by FTIR and NMR spectroscopy and by X-ray diffraction on single crystal. The QSC compounds were preliminary screened for their antibacterial and antifungal activity and the obtained results are very promising. In this respect, the hybrid N-(quinolin-8-yl)-4-chloro-benzenesulfonamide cadmium (II), considered as leading structure for further studies, has an excellent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC25923 (with a diameters of inhibition zones of 21 mm and a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 19.04 × 10−5 mg/mL), a very good antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli ATCC25922 (with a diameters of inhibition zones of 19 mm and a MIC of 609 × 10−5 mg/mL), and again an excellent antifungal activity against Candida albicans ATCC10231 (with a diameters of inhibition zones of 25 mm and a MIC of 19.04 × 10−5 mg/mL).
Structure-Activity Relationships for the Anaesthetic and Analgaesic Properties of Aromatic Ring-Substituted Ketamine Esters
Authors: Dimitrov Ivaylo V. , Harvey Martyn G. , Voss Logan J. , Sleigh James W. , Bickerdike Michael J. , Denny William A.
Published: June 2020

A series of benzene ring substituted ketamine N-alkyl esters were prepared from the corresponding substituted norketamines. Few of the latter have been reported since they have not been generally accessible via known routes. We report a new general route to many of these norketamines via the Neber (oxime to α-aminoketone) rearrangement of readily available substituted 2-phenycyclohexanones. We explored the use of the substituents Cl, Me, OMe, CF3, and OCF3, with a wide range of lipophilic and electronic properties, at all available benzene ring positions. The 2- and 3-substituted compounds were generally more active than 4-substituted compounds. The most generally acceptable substituent was Cl, while the powerful electron-withdrawing substituents CF3 and OCF3 provided fewer effective analogues.
Localization of (+)-Catechin in Picea abies Phloem: Responses to Wounding and Fungal Inoculation
Authors: Jyske Tuula , Kuroda Katsushi , Keriö Susanna , Pranovich Andrey , Linnakoski Riikka , Hayashi Noriko , Aoki Dan , Fukushima Kazuhiko
Published: June 2020

To understand the positional and temporal defense mechanisms of coniferous tree bark at the tissue and cellular levels, the phloem topochemistry and structural properties were examined after artificially induced bark defense reactions. Wounding and fungal inoculation with Endoconidiophora polonica of spruce bark were carried out, and phloem tissues were frequently collected to follow the temporal and spatial progress of chemical and structural responses. The changes in (+)-catechin, (−)-epicatechin, stilbene glucoside, and resin acid distribution, and accumulation patterns within the phloem, were mapped using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (cryo-ToF-SIMS), alongside detailed structural (LM, TEM, SEM) and quantitative chemical microanalyses of the tissues. Our results show that axial phloem parenchyma cells of Norway spruce contain (+)-catechins, the amount of which locally increases in response to fungal inoculation. The preformed, constitutive distribution and accumulation patterns of (+)-catechins closely follow those of stilbene glucosides. Phloem phenolics are not translocated but form a layered defense barrier with oleoresin compounds in response to pathogen attack. Our results suggest that axial phloem parenchyma cells are the primary location for (+)-catechin storage and synthesis in Norway spruce phloem. Chemical mapping of bark defensive metabolites by cryo-ToF-SIMS, in addition to structural and chemical microanalyses of the defense reactions, can provide novel information on the local amplitudes and localizations of chemical and structural defense mechanisms and pathogen–host interactions of trees.
A Fractional Diffusion Model for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Maldon B. , Thamwattana N.
Published: June 2020

Dye-sensitized solar cells have continued to receive much attention since their introduction by O’Regan and Grätzel in 1991. Modelling charge transfer during the sensitization process is one of several active research areas for the development of dye-sensitized solar cells in order to control and improve their performance and efficiency. Mathematical models for transport of electron density inside nanoporous semiconductors based on diffusion equations have been shown to give good agreement with results observed experimentally. However, the process of charge transfer in dye-sensitized solar cells is complicated and many issues are in need of further investigation, such as the effect of the porous structure of the semiconductor and the recombination of electrons at the interfaces between the semiconductor and electrolyte couple. This paper proposes a new model for electron transport inside the conduction band of a dye-sensitized solar cell comprising of TiO 2 as its nanoporous semiconductor. This model is based on fractional diffusion equations, taking into consideration the random walk network of TiO 2 . Finally, the paper presents numerical solutions of the fractional diffusion model to demonstrate the effect of the fractal geometry of TiO 2 on the fundamental performance parameters of dye-sensitized solar cells, such as the short-circuit current density, open-circuit voltage and efficiency.
Physicochemical Properties and Liposomal Formulations of Hydrolysate Fractions of Four Sea Cucumbers (Holothuroidea: Echinodermata) from the Northwestern Algerian Coast
Authors: Mecheta Asmaa , Hanachi Amine , Jeandel Carole , Arab-Tehrany Elmira , Bianchi Arnaud , Velot Emilie , Mezali Karim , Linder Michel
Published: June 2020

To promote the nutritional and pharmacological values of four sea cucumber species (Holothuria poli, H. tubulosa, H. arguinensis, and H. sanctori), harvested from the Algerian coast, we aimed to study their proximate composition, fatty acid profile and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity. Their phospholipids were also used to elaborate nanoliposomes and to encapsulate peptides obtained from the same source. After the physico-chemical characterization of nanoliposomes and peptides, in vitro analyses were realized. The four holothurian species showed a high amount of protein (49.26–69.34%), and an impressive lipid profile of 27 fatty acids, mainly composed of polar fatty acids (91.16–93.85%), with a high polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) content (50.90–71.80%), particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (5.07–8.76%) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (4.86–7.25%). A high phospholipids amount was also found (55.20–69.85%), mainly composed of phosphatidylcholine (PC) (51.48–58.56%). Their peptide fractions exhibited a high ACE inhibitory activity (IC50 0.30 to 0.51 mg/mL). The results also showed that the nanoliposomes do not induce cytotoxicity and cell death in human MSCs and no perturbation of proliferation for all the times and the tested concentrations, as well as the combined nanoliposomes and hydrolysates (HTS) at a concentration of 0.1 mg/mL. All four sea cucumbers show potential as a new source for omega-3, omega-6, and bioactive peptides.
Influence of Partial Acid Hydrolysis on Size, Dispersity, Monosaccharide Composition, and Conformation of Linearly-Branched Water-Soluble Polysaccharides
Authors: Lupo Cristina , Boulos Samy , Nyström Laura
Published: June 2020

The effect of partial acid hydrolysis on the physical and chemical properties of galactomannan, arabinoxylan, and xyloglucan was investigated. Polysaccharides were treated at 50 °C with hydrochloric acid for 3–48 h. Portions of isopropanol (i-PrOH) were added sequentially to the hydrolyzates, resulting in fractions that were collected by centrifugation. As expected, a significant reduction of weight-average molecular weight (Mw) was observed with increasing hydrolysis time. Fractional precipitation was successfully applied to collect at least one polymer fraction with dispersity (Đ) close to one for each polysaccharide. The monosaccharide composition analysis showed that the partial hydrolysis usually lowered the relative amount of side chains, with the exception of galactomannan, where the composition remained largely unaffected. Estimation of the polymer conformation in solution, through evaluation of the Mark-Houwink parameter coefficient (α), confirmed that acid hydrolysis influenced the polysaccharides’ conformation. It was demonstrated that acid treatment in dilute solution followed by fractional isopropanol precipitation is a method, extendible to a variety of polysaccharides, to obtain materials of decreased molecular weight and low dispersity with slightly altered overall composition and conformation.
Effect of Sporulation Conditions Following Submerged Cultivation on the Resistance of Bacillus atrophaeus Spores against Inactivation by H2O2
Authors: Stier Philipp , Kulozik Ulrich
Published: June 2020

The resistance formation of spores in general and of Bacillus atrophaeus in particular has long been the focus of science in the bio-defense, pharmaceutical and food industries. In the food industry, it is used as a biological indicator (BI) for the evaluation of the inactivation effects of hydrogen peroxide in processing and end packaging lines’ sterilization. Defined BI resistances are critical to avoid false positive and negative tests, which are salient problems due to the variable resistance of currently available commercial BIs. Although spores for use as BIs have been produced for years, little is known about the influence of sporulation conditions on the resistance as a potential source of random variability. This study therefore examines the dependence of spore resistance on the temperature, pH and partial oxygen saturation during submerged production in a bioreactor. For this purpose, spores were produced under different sporulation conditions and their resistance, defined by the D-value, was determined using a count reduction test in tempered 35% liquid hydrogen peroxide. The statistical analysis of the test results shows a quadratic dependence of the resistance on the pH, with the highest D-values at neutral pH. The sporulation temperature has a linear influence on the resistance. The higher the temperature, the higher the D-value. However, these factors interact with each other, which means that the temperature only influences the resistance when the pH is within a certain range. The oxygen partial pressure during sporulation has no significant influence. Based on the data obtained, a model could be developed enabling the resistance of BIs to be calculated, predicted and standardized depending on the sporulation conditions. BI manufacturers could thus produce BIs with defined resistances for the validation of sterilization effects in aseptic packaging/filling lines for the reliable manufacture of shelf-stable and safe food products.
Impact of Lipid Sources on Quality Traits of Medical Cannabis-Based Oil Preparations
Authors: Ramella Alberto , Roda Gabriella , Pavlovic Radmila , Dei Cas Michele , Casagni Eleonora , Mosconi Giacomo , Cecati Francisco , Minghetti Paola , Grizzetti Carlo
Published: June 2020

The feasibility of the use of two lipid sources and their impact on the cannabinoid profile, terpene fingerprint, and degradation products in medical cannabis oil preparations during 3 months of refrigerated storage time were investigated. LCHRMS-Orbitrap® and HS-SPME coupled to GC-MS for the investigation of targeted and untargeted cannabinoids, terpenes, and lipid degradation products in Bedrocan® and Bediol® macerated oils were used as analytical approaches. As regards the cannabinoid trend during 90 days of storage, there were no differences between PhEur-grade olive oil (OOPH) and medium-chain triglycerides oil (MCT oil) coupled to a good stability of preparations for the first 60 days both in Bedrocan® and Bediol® oils. MCT lipid source extracted a significant concentration of terpenes compared to olive oil. Terpenes showed a different scenario since MCT oil displayed the strongest extraction capacity and conservation trend of all compounds during the shelf life. Terpenes remained stable throughout the entire storage period in MCT formulations while a significant decrease after 15 and 30 days in Bediol® and Bedrocan® was observed in olive oil. Therefore, MCT oil could be considered a more suitable lipid source compared to olive oil involved in the extraction of medical cannabis for magistral preparations.
High-Value Compounds in Fruit, Vegetable and Cereal Byproducts: An Overview of Potential Sustainable Reuse and Exploitation
Authors: Tlais Ali Zein Alabiden , Fiorino Giuseppina Maria , Polo Andrea , Filannino Pasquale , Di Cagno Raffaella
Published: June 2020

Food waste (FW) represents a global and ever-growing issue that is attracting more attention due to its environmental, ethical, social and economic implications. Although a valuable quantity of bioactive components is still present in the residuals, nowadays most FW is destined for animal feeding, landfill disposal, composting and incineration. Aiming to valorize and recycle food byproducts, the development of novel and sustainable strategies to reduce the annual food loss appears an urgent need. In particular, plant byproducts are a plentiful source of high-value compounds that may be exploited as natural antioxidants, preservatives and supplements in the food industry, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the main bioactive compounds in fruit, vegetable and cereal byproducts is provided. Additionally, the natural and suitable application of tailored enzymatic treatments and fermentation to recover high-value compounds from plant byproducts is discussed. Based on these promising strategies, a future expansion of green biotechnologies to revalorize the high quantity of byproducts is highly encouraging to reduce the food waste/losses and promote benefits on human health.
Non-Conventional Features of Plant Oil-Based Acrylic Monomers in Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: Kohut Ananiy , Voronov Stanislav , Demchuk Zoriana , Kirianchuk Vasylyna , Kingsley Kyle , Shevchuk Oleg , Caillol Sylvain , Voronov Andriy
Published: June 2020

In recent years, polymer chemistry has experienced an intensive development of a new field regarding the synthesis of aliphatic and aromatic biobased monomers obtained from renewable plant sources. A one-step process for the synthesis of new vinyl monomers by the reaction of direct transesterification of plant oil triglycerides with N-(hydroxyethyl)acrylamide has been recently invented to yield plant oil-based monomers (POBMs). The features of the POBM chemical structure, containing both a polar (hydrophilic) fragment capable of electrostatic interactions, and hydrophobic acyl fatty acid moieties (C15-C17) capable of van der Waals interactions, ensures the participation of the POBMs fragments of polymers in intermolecular interactions before and during polymerization. The use of the POBMs with different unsaturations in copolymerization reactions with conventional vinyl monomers allows for obtaining copolymers with enhanced hydrophobicity, provides a mechanism of internal plasticization and control of crosslinking degree. Synthesized latexes and latex polymers are promising candidates for the formation of hydrophobic polymer coatings with controlled physical and mechanical properties through the targeted control of the content of different POBM units with different degrees of unsaturation in the latex polymers.
Lignans in Knotwood of Norway Spruce: Localisation with Soft X-ray Microscopy and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy
Authors: Mansikkala Tuomas , Patanen Minna , Kärkönen Anna , Korpinen Risto , Pranovich Andrey , Ohigashi Takuji , Swaraj Sufal , Seitsonen Jani , Ruokolainen Janne , Huttula Marko , Saranpää Pekka , Piispanen Riikka
Published: June 2020

Lignans are bioactive compounds that are especially abundant in the Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst.) knotwood. By combining a variety of chromatographic, spectroscopic and imaging techniques, we were able to quantify, qualify and localise the easily extractable lignans in the xylem tissue. The knotwood samples contained 15 different lignans according to the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. They comprised 16% of the knotwood dry weight and 82% of the acetone extract. The main lignans were found to be hydroxymatairesinols HMR1 and HMR2. Cryosectioned and resin-embedded ultrathin sections of the knotwood were analysed with scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM). Cryosectioning was found to retain only lignan residues inside the cell lumina. In the resin-embedded samples, lignan was interpreted to be unevenly distributed inside the cell lumina, and partially confined in deposits which were either readily present in the lumina or formed when OsO4 used in staining reacted with the lignans. Furthermore, the multi-technique characterisation enabled us to obtain information on the chemical composition of the structural components of knotwood. A simple spectral analysis of the STXM data gave consistent results with the gas chromatographic methods about the relative amounts of cell wall components (lignin and polysaccharides). The STXM analysis also indicated that a torus of a bordered pit contained aromatic compounds, possibly lignin.
Nicotinic Antagonist UFR2709 Inhibits Nicotine Reward and Decreases Anxiety in Zebrafish
Authors: Viscarra Franco , González-Gutierrez Juan , Esparza Erica , Figueroa Carla , Paillali Pablo , Hödar-Salazar Martin , Cespedes Camilo , Quiroz Gabriel , Sotomayor-Zárate Ramón , Reyes-Parada Miguel , Bermúdez Isabel , Iturriaga-Vásquez Patricio
Published: June 2020

Zebrafish is becoming a popular animal model in neuropharmacology and drug discovery, mainly due to its ease of handling and low costs involved in maintenance and experimental work. This animal displays a series of complex behaviours that makes it useful for assessing the effects of psychoactive drugs. Here, adult zebrafish were used for assessment of the anxiolytic and anti-addictive properties of UFR2709, a nicotinic receptor (nAChR) antagonist, using two behavioural paradigms to test for addiction, the novel tank diving test to assess anxiety and the conditioned place preference (CPP). Furthermore, the expression of nAChR subunits α4 and α7 was measured in the zebrafish brain. The results show that UFR2709 exhibits an anxiolytic effect on zebrafish and blocks the effect evoked by nicotine on CPP. Moreover, UFR2709 significantly decreased the expression of α4 nicotinic receptor subunit. This indicates that UFR2709 might be a useful drug for the treatment of nicotine addiction.
Betavulgarin Isolated from Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris) Suppresses Breast Cancer Stem Cells through Stat3 Signaling
Authors: Liu Ren , Choi Hack Sun , Zhen Xing , Kim Su-Lim , Kim Ji-Hyang , Ko Yu-Chan , Yun Bong-Sik , Lee Dong-Sun
Published: June 2020

Breast cancer is a major health problem that affects lives worldwide. Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are small subpopulations of cells with capacities for drug resistance, self-renewal, recurrence, metastasis, and differentiation. Herein, powder extracts of beetroot were subjected to silica gel, gel filtration, thin layer chromatography (TLC), and preparatory high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) for isolation of one compound, based on activity-guided purification using tumorsphere formation assays. The purified compound was identified as betavulgarin, using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry. Betavulgarin suppressed the proliferation, migration, colony formation, and mammosphere formation of breast cancer cells and reduced the size of the CD44+/CD24− subpopulation and the expression of the self-renewal-related genes, C-Myc, Nanog, and Oct4. This compound decreased the total level and phosphorylated nuclear level of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) and reduced the mRNA and protein levels of sex determining region Y (SRY)-box 2 (SOX2), in mammospheres. These data suggest that betavulgarin inhibit the Stat3/Sox2 signaling pathway and induces BCSC death, indicating betavulgarin might be an anticancer agent against breast cancer cells and BCSCs.
Sesquiterpene Lactones from Calea pinnatifida: Absolute Configuration and Structural Requirements for Antitumor Activity
Authors: Caldas Lhaís Araújo , Rodrigues Mariana T. , Batista Andrea N. L. , Batista João M. , Lago João H. G. , Ferreira Marcelo J. P. , Rubio Ileana G. S. , Sartorelli Patricia
Published: June 2020

This work describes the chromatographic fractionation of the aerial parts of Calea pinnatifida and the structural characterization and determination of the absolute configuration of the isolated compounds as well as their antitumor potential. The HPLC fractionation of the CH2Cl2 phase of the MeOH extract from the leaves of C. pinnatifida led to the isolation of two related sesquiterpene lactones (STLs): calein C (1) and calealactone B (2). Additionally, during the purification process, a derivative of calein C (3) was formed as a product of the Michael addition of MeOH. The structures of Compounds 1–3 were established based on spectroscopic and spectrometric data, while the absolute stereochemistry was established by vibrational circular dichroism. In order to evaluate the effect of the conjugated double bonds on the cytotoxic activity of STLs, Compounds 1–3 were tested against anaplastic (KTC-2) and papillary (TPC-1) thyroid carcinoma cells. Calein C was the most active of the STLs, and displayed activity against both KTC-2 and TPC-1. On the other hand, the calein C derivative (3) was the least cytotoxic of all the compounds tested. These results are promising and suggest the importance of studying sesquiterpene lactones isolated from C. pinnatifida in terms of antitumor activity, especially considering the effects of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl systems.
Emulsification of Surfactant on Oil Droplets by Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Cheng Yaoshuang , Yuan Shiling
Published: June 2020

Heavy oil in crude oil flooding is extremely difficult to extract due to its high viscosity and poor fluidity. In this paper, molecular dynamics simulation was used to study the emulsification behavior of sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDSn) micelles on heavy oil droplets composed of asphaltenes (ASP) at the molecular level. Some analyzed techniques were used including root mean square displacement, hydrophile-hydrophobic area of an oil droplet, potential of mean force, and the number of hydrogen bonds between oil droplet and water phase. The simulated results showed that the asphaltene with carboxylate groups significantly enhances the hydration layer on the surface of oil droplets, and SDSn molecules can change the strength of the hydration layer around the surface of the oil droplets. The water bridge structure between both polar heads of the surfactant was commonly formed around the hydration layer of the emulsified oil droplet. During the emulsification of heavy oil, the ratio of hydrophilic hydrophobic surface area around an oil droplet is essential. Molecular dynamics method can be considered as a helpful tool for experimental techniques at the molecular level.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase-IV Inhibitory Activity and Related Molecular Mechanism of Bovine α-Lactalbumin-Derived Peptides
Authors: Gao Jing , Gong Han , Mao Xueying
Published: June 2020

Identifying DPP-IV inhibitory peptides from dietary protein has attracted increased attention. In the present study, bovine α-lactalbumin hydrolysates were generated by alcalase for various hydrolysis times, and DPP-IV inhibitory activity of these hydrolysates was determined. The 4 h hydrolysates displayed the most potent DPP-IV inhibitory activity, with DPP-IV inhibition rate of 82.30 ± 1.39% at concentration of 1.0 mg/mL. DPP-IV inhibitory peptides were isolated from the 4 h-hydrolysates with gel filtration chromatography and reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI MS/MS), two DPP-IV inhibitory peptides were identified, and their amino acid sequences were Glu-Leu-Lys-Asp-Leu-Lys-Gly-Tyr (ELKDLKGY) and Ile-Leu-Asp-Lys-Val-Gly-Ile-Asn-Tyr (ILDKVGINY), respectively. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis showed that peptides ELKDLKGY and ILDKVGINY could form hydrogen bonds, pi-cation interactions, and salt bridges with DPP-IV. These findings indicated that bovine α-lactalbumin may be a potential source of natural DPP-IV inhibitor.
Japanese Young Women Did not Discriminate between Robots and Humans as Listeners for Their Self-Disclosure -Pilot Study-
Authors: Uchida Takahisa , Takahashi Hideyuki , Ban Midori , Shimaya Jiro , Minato Takashi , Ogawa Kohei , Yoshikawa Yuichiro , Ishiguro Hiroshi
Published: June 2020

Disclosing personal matters to other individuals often contributes to the maintenance of our mental health and social bonding. However, in face-to-face situations, it can be difficult to prompt others to self-disclose because people often feel embarrassed disclosing personal matters to others. Although artificial agents without strong social pressure for listeners to induce self-disclosure is a promising engineering method that can be applied in daily stress management and reduce depression, gender difference is known to make a drastic difference of the attitude toward robots. We hypothesized that, as compared to men, women tend to prefer robots as a listener for their self-disclosure. The experimental results that are based on questionnaires and the actual self-disclosure behavior indicate that men preferred to self-disclose to the human listener, while women did not discriminate between robots and humans as listeners for their self-disclosure in the willingness and the amount of self-disclosure. This also suggests that the gender difference needs to be considered when robots are used as a self-disclosure listener.
Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles Doped with Cobalt Using Bimetallic ZIFs as Sacrificial Agents
Authors: Butova Vera V. , Polyakov Vladimir A. , Erofeeva Elena A. , Efimova Sofia A. , Soldatov Mikhail A. , Trigub Alexander L. , Rusalev Yury V. , Soldatov Alexander V.
Published: June 2020

We report here a simple two-stage synthesis of zinc–cobalt oxide nanoparticles. We used Zn/Co-zeolite imidazolate framework (ZIF)-8 materials as precursors for annealing and optional impregnation with a silicon source for the formation of a protective layer on the surface of oxide nanoparticles. Using bimetallic ZIFs allowed us to trace the phase transition of the obtained oxide nanoparticles from wurtzite ZnO to spinel Co3O4 structures. Using (X-ray diffraction) XRD and (X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure) XANES techniques, we confirmed the incorporation of cobalt ions into the ZnO structure up to 5 mol.% of Co. Simple annealing of Zn/Co-ZIF-8 materials in the air led to the formation of oxide nanoparticles of about 20–30 nm, while additional treatment of ZIFs with silicon source resulted in nanoparticles of about 5–10 nm covered with protective silica layer. We revealed the incorporation of oxygen vacancies in the obtained ZnO nanoparticles using FTIR analysis. All obtained samples were comprehensively characterized, including analysis with a synchrotron radiation source.
Nickel-Containing Ceria-Zirconia Doped with Ti and Nb. Effect of Support Composition and Preparation Method on Catalytic Activity in Methane Dry Reforming
Authors: Simonov Mikhail , Bespalko Yulia , Smal Ekaterina , Valeev Konstantin , Fedorova Valeria , Krieger Tamara , Sadykov Vladislav
Published: June 2020

Nickel-containing mixed ceria-zirconia oxides also doped by Nb and Ti have been prepared by a citrate route and by original solvothermal continuous flow synthesis in supercritical alcohols. Nickel was subsequently deposited by conventional insipient wetness impregnation. The oxides are comprised of ceria-zirconia solid solution with cubic fluorite phase. Negligible amounts of impurities of zirconia are observed for samples prepared by citrate route and doped by Ti. Supports prepared by supercritical synthesis are single-phased. XRD data, Raman, and UV-Vis DR (diffuse reflectance) spectroscopy suggest increasing lattice parameter and amount of oxygen vacancies in fluorite structure after Nb and Ti incorporation despite of the preparation method. These structural changes correlate with the catalytic activity in a methane dry reforming reaction. Catalysts synthesized under supercritical conditions are more active than the catalysts of the same composition prepared by the citrate route. The catalytic activity of samples doped with Ti and Nb is two times higher in terms of TOF (turnover frequency) and increased stability of these catalysts is attributed with the highest oxygen mobility being crucial for gasification of coke precursors.
Synergetic Effect of 2-Methacryloyloxyethyl Phosphorylcholine and Mesoporous Bioactive Glass Nanoparticles on Antibacterial and Anti-Demineralisation Properties in Orthodontic Bonding Agents
Authors: Park Se Young , Yoo Kyung-Hyeon , Yoon Seog-Young , Son Woo-Sung , Kim Yong-Il
Published: June 2020

2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) is known to have antibacterial and protein-repellent effects, whereas mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (MBN) are known to have remineralisation effects. We evaluated the antibacterial and remineralisation effects of mixing MPC and MBN at various ratios with orthodontic bonding agents. MPC and MBN were mixed in the following weight percentages in CharmFil-Flow (CF): CF, 3% MPC, 5% MPC, 3% MPC + 3% MBN, and 3% MPC + 5% MBN. As the content of MPC and MBN increased, the mechanical properties of the resin decreased. At 5% MPC, the mechanical properties decreased significantly with respect to CF (shear bond strength), gelation of MPC occurred, and no significant difference was observed in terms of protein adsorption compared to the control group. Composition 3% MPC + 5% MBN exhibited the lowest protein adsorption because the proportion of hydrophobic resin composite decreased; CF (91.8 ± 4.8 μg/mL), 3% MPC (73.9 ± 2.6 μg/mL), 3% MPC + 3% MBN (69.4 ± 3.6 μg/mL), and 3% MPC + 5% MBN (55.9 ± 1.6 μg/mL). In experiments against S. mutans and E. coli, addition of MPC and MBN resulted in significant antibacterial effects. In another experiment, the anti-demineralisation effect was improved when MPC was added, and when MBN was additionally added, it resulted in a synergetic effect. When MPC and MBN were added at an appropriate ratio to the orthodontic bonding agents, the protein-repellent, antibacterial, and anti-demineralisation effects were improved. This combination could thus be an alternative way of treating white spot lesions.
Capturing Amyloid-β Oligomers by Stirring with Microscaled Iron Oxide Stir Bars into Magnetic Plaques to Reduce Cytotoxicity toward Neuronal Cells
Authors: Tsai Yuan-Chung , Luo Jing-Chian , Liu Te-I , Lu I-Lin , Shen Ming-Yin , Chuang Chun-Yu , Chern Chorng-Shyan , Chiu Hsin-Cheng
Published: June 2020

Soluble amyloid-β oligomers (oAβ42)-induced neuronal death and inflammation response has been recognized as one of the major causes of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In this work, a novel strategy adopting silica-coated iron oxide stir bar (MSB)-based AD therapy system via magnetic stirring-induced capture of oAβ42 into magnetic plaques (mpAβ42) and activation of microglia on cellular plaque clearance was developed. With oAβ42 being effectively converted into mpAβ42, the neurotoxicity toward neuronal cells was thus greatly reduced. In addition to the good preservation of neurite outgrowth through the diminished uptake of oAβ42, neurons treated with oAβ42 under magnetic stirring also exhibited comparable neuron-specific protein expression to those in the absence of oAβ42. The phagocytic uptake of mpAβ42 by microglia was enhanced significantly as compared to the counterpart of oAβ42, and the M1 polarization of microglia often occurring after the uptake of oAβ42 restricted to an appreciable extent. As a result, the inflammation induced by pro-inflammatory cytokines was greatly alleviated.
Homotopy Phases of FQHE with Long-Range Quantum Entanglement in Monolayer and Bilayer Hall Systems
Authors: Jacak Janusz
Published: June 2020

Correlated phases in Hall systems have topological character. Multilayer configurations of planar electron systems create the opportunity to change topological phases on demand using macroscopic factors, such as vertical voltage. We present an analysis of such phenomena in close relation to recent experiments with multilayer Hall setups including GaAs and graphene multi-layers. The consequences of the blocking or not of the inter-layer electron tunneling in stacked Hall configurations are analyzed and presented in detail. Multilayer Hall systems are thus tunable topological composite nanomaterials, in the case of graphene-stacked systems by both intra- and inter-layer voltage.
Surfactant-Triggered Molecular Gate Tested on Different Mesoporous Silica Supports for Gastrointestinal Controlled Delivery
Authors: Poyatos-Racionero Elisa , González-Álvarez Isabel , González-Álvarez Marta , Martínez-Máñez Ramón , Marcos M. Dolores , Bernardos Andrea , Aznar Elena
Published: June 2020

In recent decades, the versatility of mesoporous silica particles and their relevance to develop controlled release systems have been demonstrated. Within them, gated materials able to modulate payload delivery represent great advantages. However, the role played by the porous matrix in this kind of systems is scarce. In this work, different mesoporous silica materials (MCM-41, MCM-48, SBA-15 and UVM-7) are functionalized with oleic acid as a molecular gate. All systems are fully characterized and their ability to confine the entrapped cargo and release it in the presence of bile salts is validated with release assays and in vitro digestion experiments. The cargo release profile of each synthesized support is studied, paying attention to the inorganic scaffold. Obtained release profiles fit to Korsmeyer–Peppas model, which explains the differences among the studied supports. Based on the results, UVM-7 material was the most appropriate system for duodenal delivery and was tested in an in vivo model of the Wistar rat. Payload confinement and its complete release after gastric emptying is achieved, establishing the possible use of mesoporous silica particles as protection and direct release agents into the duodenum and, hence, demonstrating that these systems could serve as an alternative to the administration methods employed until now.
Carbohydrate Intake in Early Childhood and Body Composition and Metabolic Health: Results from the Generation R Study
Authors: Nguyen Anh N. , Santos Susana , Braun Kim V. E. , Voortman Trudy
Published: June 2020

High sugar intake in childhood has been linked to obesity. However, the role of macronutrient substitutions and associations with metabolic health remain unclear. We examined associations of carbohydrate intake and its subtypes with body composition and metabolic health among 3573 children participating in a population-based cohort in the Netherlands. Intake of total carbohydrate, monosaccharides and disaccharides, and polysaccharides at age 1 year was assessed with a food-frequency questionnaire. We repeatedly measured children’s height and weight to calculate BMI between their ages of 1 and 10 years. At ages 6 and 10 years, fat and fat-free mass were measured with dual-energy X-ray-absorptiometry and blood concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, and insulin were obtained. For all outcomes, we calculated age and sexspecific SD-scores. In multivariable-adjusted linear mixed models, we found no associations of intake of carbohydrates or its subtypes with children’s BMI or body composition. A higher intake of monosaccharides and disaccharides was associated with higher triglyceride concentrations (0.02 SDS per 10 g/day, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.04). Higher monosaccharide and disaccharide intake was also associated with lower HDL-cholesterol (−0.03 SDS, 95% CI: −0.04; −0.01), especially when it replaced polysaccharides. Overall, our findings suggest associations of higher monosaccharide and disaccharide intake in early childhood with higher triglyceride and lower HDL-cholesterol concentrations, but do not support associations with body composition.
Neuroimaging of Sex/Gender Differences in Obesity: A Review of Structure, Function, and Neurotransmission
Authors: Kroll Danielle S. , Feldman Dana E. , Biesecker Catherine L. , McPherson Katherine L. , Manza Peter , Joseph Paule Valery , Volkow Nora D. , Wang Gene-Jack
Published: June 2020

While the global prevalence of obesity has risen among both men and women over the past 40 years, obesity has consistently been more prevalent among women relative to men. Neuroimaging studies have highlighted several potential mechanisms underlying an individual’s propensity to become obese, including sex/gender differences. Obesity has been associated with structural, functional, and chemical alterations throughout the brain. Whereas changes in somatosensory regions appear to be associated with obesity in men, reward regions appear to have greater involvement in obesity among women than men. Sex/gender differences have also been observed in the neural response to taste among people with obesity. A more thorough understanding of these neural and behavioral differences will allow for more tailored interventions, including diet suggestions, for the prevention and treatment of obesity.
Discovery of a Novel Multi-Strains Probiotic Formulation with Improved Efficacy toward Intestinal Inflammation
Authors: Biagioli Michele , Carino Adriana , Di Giorgio Cristina , Marchianò Silvia , Bordoni Martina , Roselli Rosalinda , Distrutti Eleonora , Fiorucci Stefano
Published: June 2020

Dysbiosis is commonly detected in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), supporting the concept that a dysregulated immune reaction to bacterial antigens has a pathogenic role in the development of intestinal inflammation. In the present study, we have investigated the beneficial effects of a novel probiotic formulation assembled by combining four probiotics (Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis) with Bacillus subtilis, a Gram-positive bacterium, with extensive bio-applications. Mice rendered colitic by administration of TNBS or DSS were administered with Bacillus subtilis alone, Vivomixx® or the novel Five strains formulation. Vivomixx® attenuated the severity of inflammation and reduced the development of signs and symptoms of colitis in both models. Adding Bacillus subtilis to Vivomixx® improved the beneficial effects of the bacterial therapy. The novel Five strains formulation was as effective as Vivomixx® in reducing the development of signs and symptoms of colitis and reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators including Il-6 and Tnf-α while increased the expression of Il-10 mRNA and the number of Treg. In summary, we have shown that a novel Five strains probiotics formulation exerts beneficial effects on two chemical models of colitis, establishing Bacillus subtilis as a probiotic in rodent models of inflammation.
Nutrient Timing: A Garage Door of Opportunity?
Authors: Arent Shawn M. , Cintineo Harry P. , McFadden Bridget A. , Chandler Alexa J. , Arent Michelle A.
Published: June 2020

Nutrient timing involves manipulation of nutrient consumption at specific times in and around exercise bouts in an effort to improve performance, recovery, and adaptation. Its historical perspective centered on ingestion during exercise and grew to include pre- and post-training periods. As research continued, translational focus remained primarily on the impact and outcomes related to nutrient consumption during one specific time period to the exclusion of all others. Additionally, there seemed to be increasing emphasis on outcomes related to hypertrophy and strength at the expense of other potentially more impactful performance measures. As consumption of nutrients does not occur at only one time point in the day, the effect and impact of energy and macronutrient availability becomes an important consideration in determining timing of additional nutrients in and around training and competition. This further complicates the confining of the definition of “nutrient timing” to one very specific moment in time at the exclusion of all other time points. As such, this review suggests a new perspective built on evidence of the interconnectedness of nutrient impact and provides a pragmatic approach to help frame nutrient timing more inclusively. Using this approach, it is argued that the concept of nutrient timing is constrained by reliance on interpretation of an “anabolic window” and may be better viewed as a “garage door of opportunity” to positively impact performance, recovery, and athlete availability.
Food Addiction Mediates the Relationship between Perceived Stress and Body Mass Index in Taiwan Young Adults
Authors: Lin Yi-Syuan , Tung Yu-Tang , Yen Yu-Chun , Chien Yi-Wen
Published: June 2020

Perceived stress is the degree of stress experienced by an individual in the face of a stressor. Studies have shown that stress affects emotions, leads to behavioral changes, and is likely to trigger physical illnesses. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stress is classified as a health epidemic of the 21st century; in the meantime, the percentage of adults being overweight and with obesity has continued to grow after reaching 38.9% in 2016. Hence, it is unclear whether perceived stress has become a factor affecting progressive obesity and whether food addiction (FA) is an intermediate factor. The purposes of this study were to (1) investigate the FA prevalence among young adults in Taiwan, (2) understand correlations among perceived stress, FA, and the body mass index (BMI), and (3) determine the potential mediating effect of FA due to perceived stress on BMI. The study was conducted through an online questionnaire, composed of a basic data form, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS). We received 1994 responses and analyzed 1780 valid samples. Results showed that 231 participants met the FA criteria, accounting for 12.98%. Perceived stress was positively correlated with BMI (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.013~0.088, p-value 7.8 × 10−3), and perceived stress was positively associated to FA (95% CI 1.099~1.154, p-value < 10−4), which was also positively correlated with BMI (95% CI 0.705~2.176, p-value 10−4). FA significantly mediated the relationship between PSS and BMI with an indirect effect size of 25.18% and 25.48% in the group that scored 31~40 on the PSS. The study concluded that among people seeking weight loss, proper stress management and screening for FA in order to apply related therapies may be an effective method for weight management.
Electrolyte Intake and Major Food Sources of Sodium, Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium among a Population in Western Austria
Authors: Schiefermeier-Mach Natalia , Egg Sabrina , Erler Judith , Hasenegger Verena , Rust Petra , König Jürgen , Purtscher Anna Elisabeth
Published: June 2020

Dietary intake of sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium has a strong impact on personal health. In order to understand possible correlations with regional occurrence of diseases and to develop new dietary strategies, it is necessary to evaluate food choices in defined geographic areas. The aim of this study was to analyze daily consumption and major food sources of electrolytes with an emphasis on dietary patterns. In this representative, cross-sectional study, daily foods of 463 adults were assessed with two nonconsecutive 24-h recalls. Our results show high sodium and low potassium consumption in all age groups in both men and women. Furthermore, more than half of investigated persons had low calcium, and 40% indicated low dietary magnesium intake. Only 1% of our study population reached the recommended values for all electrolytes, while 13% consumed adequate levels of three electrolytes. Moreover, 14% did not reach reference levels for any of the four minerals. A further comparison of dietary patterns and food preferences showed significant differences in major food groups including nonalcoholic drinks, fruits, vegetables, legumes, milk products, vegetable oil, bread and sweets. Our results are important for further evaluations of nutrition intake and the development of new dietary strategies.
Regular Consumption of Lipigo® Promotes the Reduction of Body Weight and Improves the Rebound Effect of Obese People Undergo a Comprehensive Weight Loss Program
Authors: Valero-Pérez Marlhyn , Bermejo Laura M. , López-Plaza Bricia , García Meritxell Aguiló , Palma-Milla Samara , Gómez-Candela Carmen
Published: June 2020

Obesity is a global public health problem. Objective: To evaluate the effect of the regular consumption of the product Lipigo® on body weight and rebound effect on overweight/obese subjects undergoing a comprehensive weight loss program. Methods: A randomized, parallel, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with male and female subjects presenting a BMI 25–39.9 kg/m2. All subjects underwent a comprehensive weight loss program (WLP) for 12 weeks, which included an individualized hypocaloric diet, physical activity recommendations, nutritional education seminars, and three times a day consumption of the product Lipigo® or Placebo. After-WLP, subjects continued the treatment for 9 months to assess rebound effect. Body weight (BW), BMI, and body composition were measured at the beginning and the end of the WLP, and in the follow-up. Results: A total of 120 subjects (85% women) 49.0 ± 9.5 years old and with a BW of 81.57 ± 13.26 kg (BMI 31.19 ± 3.44 kg/m2) were randomized and 73 subjects finished the study. At the end of the WLP, there was a tendency toward reduced BW (p = 0.093), BMI (p = 0.063), and WC (p = 0.059) in the treated group. However, subjects with obesity type 1 (OB1) from the treated group significantly reduced body weight (−5.27 ± 2.75 vs. −3.08 ± 1.73 kg; p = 0.017) and BMI (−1.99 ± 1.08 vs. −1.09 ± 0.55 kg/m2; p = 0.01) compared with placebo. They also presented a minor rebound effect after 9 months with product consumption (−4.19 ± 3.61 vs. −1.44 ± 2.51 kg; p = 0.026), minor BMI (−1.61 ± 1.43 vs. −0.52 ± 0.96 kg/m2; p = 0.025) and tended to have less fat-mass (−3.44 ± 2.46 vs. −1.44 ± 3.29 kg; p = 0.080) compared with placebo. Conclusions: The regular consumption of the product Lipigo® promotes the reduction of body weight and reduces the rebound effect of obese people after 52 weeks (12 months), mainly in obesity type 1, who undergo a comprehensive weight loss program.