bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of ZnO/Na-Montmorillonite Hybrid Nanostructures Used for PVOH/ZnO/Na-Montmorillonite Active Packaging Films Preparation via a Melt-Extrusion Process
Authors: Salmas Constantinos , Giannakas Aris , Katapodis Petros , Leontiou Areti , Moschovas Dimitrios , Karydis-Messinis Andreas
Published: June 2020

Nowadays, the shelf-life extension of foods is a topic of major interest because of its environmental and economic benefits. For this purpose, various methods like deep-freezing, ultra-high-temperature pasteurization, drying methods, use of chemicals, controlled-atmosphere preservation, ionizing irradiation, and were investigated. During the last years, the smart packaging for foods using natural biodegradable components is of great interest because it provides positive environmental fingerprint and high shelf-life extension. In the present work, a new nanostructured composite material, the ZnO/Na-Montmorillonite hybrid, was developed. The high antimicrobial properties of the 3-D ZnO material in combination with the high barrier and strength properties of the 2-D Na-Montmorillonite material provided a high promising component for food smart packaging applications. As an extra innovation of this process, the ZnO nanorods coated the external surface of the Na-Montmorillonite and it was not intercalated into the clay as a pillaring material. This new material was incorporated with a 3% w/w composition with a biodegradable poly(vinyl)alcohol (PVOH) polymeric matrix which also exhibits antimicrobial activity. The final product was tested via XRD, FTIR, SEM, tensile test, water sorption, water vapor permeability, oxygen permeability UV–vis, and anti-microbial activity tests and it exhibited advanced mechanical and antimicrobial properties, especially for a ZnO/Na-Montmorillonite fraction of 4:1.
Fabrication of 3D-Printed Biodegradable Porous Scaffolds Combining Multi-Material Fused Deposition Modeling and Supercritical CO2 Techniques
Authors: Sanz-Horta Raúl , Elvira Carlos , Gallardo Alberto , Reinecke Helmut , Rodríguez-Hernández Juan
Published: June 2020

The fabrication of porous materials for tissue engineering applications in a straightforward manner is still a current challenge. Herein, by combining the advantages of two conventional methodologies with additive manufacturing, well-defined objects with internal and external porosity were produced. First of all, multi-material fused deposition modeling (FDM) allowed us to prepare structures combining poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and poly (lactic acid) (PLA), thus enabling to finely tune the final mechanical properties of the printed part with modulus and strain at break varying from values observed for pure PCL (modulus 200 MPa, strain at break 1700%) and PLA (modulus 1.2 GPa and strain at break 5–7%). More interestingly, supercritical CO2 (SCCO2) as well as the breath figures mechanism (BFs) were additionally employed to produce internal (pore diameters 80–300 µm) and external pores (with sizes ranging between 2 and 12 μm) exclusively in those areas where PCL is present. This strategy will offer unique possibilities to fabricate intricate structures combining the advantages of additive manufacturing (AM) in terms of flexibility and versatility and those provided by the SCCO2 and BFs to finely tune the formation of porous structures.
Green Plasmonic Nanoparticles and Bio-Inspired Stimuli-Responsive Vesicles in Cancer Therapy Application
Authors: De Matteis Valeria , Rizzello Loris , Cascione Mariafrancesca , Liatsi-Douvitsa Eva , Apriceno Azzurra , Rinaldi Rosaria
Published: June 2020

In the last years, there is a growing interest in the application of nanoscaled materials in cancer therapy because of their unique physico-chemical properties. However, the dark side of their usability is limited by their possible toxic behaviour and accumulation in living organisms. Starting from this assumption, the search for a green alternative to produce nanoparticles (NPs) or the discovery of green molecules, is a challenge in order to obtain safe materials. In particular, gold (Au NPs) and silver (Ag NPs) NPs are particularly suitable because of their unique physico-chemical properties, in particular plasmonic behaviour that makes them useful as active anticancer agents. These NPs can be obtained by green approaches, alternative to conventional chemical methods, owing to the use of phytochemicals, carbohydrates, and other biomolecules present in plants, fungi, and bacteria, reducing toxic effects. In addition, we analysed the use of green and stimuli-responsive polymeric bio-inspired nanovesicles, mainly used in drug delivery applications that have revolutionised the way of drugs supply. Finally, we reported the last examples on the use of metallic and Au NPs as self-propelling systems as new concept of nanorobot, which are able to respond and move towards specific physical or chemical stimuli in biological entities.
Oral Bioavailability Enhancement of Raloxifene with Nanostructured Lipid Carriers
Authors: Murthy Aditya , Rao Ravi Punna , Kathuria Himanshu , Malekar Shrinivas
Published: June 2020

Raloxifene hydrochloride (RLX) shows poor bioavailability (<2%), high inter-patient variability and extensive gut metabolism (>90%). The objective of this study was to develop nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) for RLX to enhance its bioavailability. The NLC formulations were produced with glyceryl tribehenate and oleic acid. The particle characteristics, entrapment efficiency (EE), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), in vitro drug release, oral bioavailability (in rats) and stability studies were performed. The optimized nanoparticles were 120 ± 3 nm in size with positive zeta potential (14.4 ± 0.5 mV); % EE was over 90% with the drug loading of 5%. The RLX exists in an amorphous form in the lipid matrix. The optimized RLX-NLC formulation showed sustained release in vitro. The RLX-NLC significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced oral bioavailability 3.19-fold as compared to RLX-free suspension in female Wistar rats. The RLX-NLC can potentially enhance the oral bioavailability of RLX. It can also improve the storage stability.
Plant Extracts Activated by Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasmas as Suitable Tools for Synthesis of Gold Nanostructures with Catalytic Uses
Authors: Dzimitrowicz Anna , Cyganowski Piotr , Pohl Pawel , Milkowska Weronika , Jermakowicz-Bartkowiak Dorota , Jamroz Piotr
Published: June 2020

Because cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP)-based technologies are very useful tools in nanomaterials synthesis, in this work we have connected two unique in their classes approaches—a CAPP-based protocol and a green synthesis method in order to obtain stable-in-time gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). To do so, we have used an aqueous Gingko biloba leave extract and an aqueous Panax ginseng root extract (untreated or treated by CAPP) to produce AuNPs, suitable for catalytical uses. Firstly, we have adjusted the optical properties of resulted AuNPs, applying UV/Vis absorption spectrophotometry (UV/Vis). To reveal the morphology of Au nanostructures, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in addition to energy dispersive X-ray scattering (EDX) and selected area X-ray diffraction (SAED) was utilized. Moreover, optical emission spectrometry (OES) in addition to a colorimetric method was used to identify and determine the concentration of selected RONS occurring at the liquid-CAPP interface. Additionally, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (ATR FT-IR) was applied to reveal the active compounds, which might be responsible for the AuNPs surface functionalization and stabilization. Within the performed research it was found that the smallest in size AuNPs were synthesized using the aqueous P. ginseng root extract, which was activated by direct current atmospheric pressure glow discharge (dc-APGD), generated in contact with a flowing liquid cathode (FLC). On the contrary, taking into account the aqueous G. biloba leave extract, the smallest in size AuNPs were synthesized when the untreated by CAPP aqueous G. biloba leave extract was involved in the Au nanostructures synthesis. For catalytical studies we have chosen AuNPs produced using the aqueous P. ginseng root extract activated by FLC-dc-APGD as well as AuNPs synthesized using the aqueous G. biloba leave extract also activated by FLC-dc-APGD. Those NPs were successfully used as homogenous catalysts for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol (4-AP).
Densification-Induced Structure Changes in Basolite MOFs: Effect on Low-Pressure CH4 Adsorption
Authors: Ursueguía David , Díaz Eva , Ordóñez Salvador
Published: June 2020

Metal-organic frameworks’ (MOFs) adsorption potential is significantly reduced by turning the original powder into pellets or granules, a mandatory step for their use at industrial scale. Pelletization is commonly performed by mechanical compression, which often induces the amorphization or pressure-induced phase transformations. The objective of this work is the rigorous study of the impact of mechanical pressure (55.9, 111.8 and 186.3 MPa) onto three commercial materials (Basolite C300, F300 and A100). Phase transformations were determined by powder X-ray diffraction analysis, whereas morphological changes were followed by nitrogen physisorption. Methane adsorption was studied in an atmospheric fixed bed. Significant crystallinity losses were observed, even at low applied pressures (up to 69.9% for Basolite C300), whereas a structural change occurred to Basolite A100 from orthorhombic to monoclinic phases, with a high cell volume reduction (13.7%). Consequently, adsorption capacities for both methane and nitrogen were largely reduced (up to 53.6% for Basolite C300), being related to morphological changes (surface area losses). Likewise, the high concentration of metallic active centers (Basolite C300), the structural breathing (Basolite A100) and the mesopore-induced formation (Basolite F300) smooth the dramatic loss of capacity of these materials.
Intake of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners in Chilean Children after Enforcement of a New Food Labeling Law that Regulates Added Sugar Content in Processed Foods
Authors: Martínez Ximena , Zapata Yazmín , Pinto Victoria , Cornejo Camila , Elbers Martje , van der Graaf Maaike , Villarroel Luis , Hodgson María Isabel , Rigotti Attilio , Echeverría Guadalupe
Published: June 2020

After enforcement of a new food labeling law in 2016, Chile exhibits a greater offer to reduced sugar products with addition of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS). Many of these products are consumed by children, who are at greater risk of reaching the acceptable daily intake (ADI) of these food additives. The objective of this study was to evaluate the intake levels of NNS in Chilean schoolchildren after the enactment of the aforementioned law. A total of 250 Chilean children 6–12 years old were surveyed. NNS intake was assessed through a food frequency questionnaire. All children evaluated consumed at least one NNS during the previous month. Sucralose had the highest consumption frequency reaching 99.2%, followed by acesulfame-K (92.8%), stevia (86.0%), and aspartame (85.2%). Aspartame showed the highest median intake, which came mainly from beverages (96%). No children exceeded the ADI of any NNS. Smaller children exhibited a higher body weight-adjusted intake of sucralose, acesulfame-K, stevia, and aspartame (p < 0.05). In Chile, a wide range of processed foods with NNSs is available and all schoolchildren evaluated consumed at least one product containing NNS. However, this consumption does not exceed defined ADIs for any of the six sweeteners authorized for food use in Chile.
Longitudinal Association between Urbanicity and Total Dietary Fat Intake in Adults in Urbanizing China from 1991 to 2015: Findings from the CHNS
Authors: Su Chang , Song Xiaoyun , Hu Haojie , Du Wenwen , Wang Huijun , Zhang Bing
Published: June 2020

Few studies have examined the longitudinal association between urbanicity and dietary fat intake in Chinese adults. A population-based longitudinal observational study was carried out in Chinese adults aged 18–65 from the China Health and Nutrition Survey. Three consecutive 24 h dietary recalls were used to assess dietary fat intake. Multilevel models were used to explore the relationship between urbanicity and dietary fat intake. People in the highest urbanicity quartile had the increments of 7.48 g/d (95% CI:5.42–9.58) and 8.92 g/d (95% CI: 7.03–10.80) in dietary fat intake, 2.86 (95% CI: 2.29–3.44) and 2.69 (95% CI: 2.13–3.25) in proportion of energy from total fat, and odds ratios (ORs) for the risk of excess dietary fat intake of 1.84 (95% CI: 1.65–2.05) and 2.01 (95% CI: 1.78–2.26) for men and women, respectively, compared to the lowest quartile after controlling for potential confounders. These results indicate that urbanicity was an important factor influencing dietary fat intake among Chinese adults. Aggressive nutritional education action coupled with governmental guidelines and programs tailored for the Chinese population are required to promote less dietary fat intake, especially in those adults living in less urbanized areas and whose dietary fat intake is ≥ 30% of their total energy intake per day.
Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Inhibit the Function of Human URAT1, a Renal Urate Re-Absorber
Authors: Saito Hiroki , Toyoda Yu , Takada Tappei , Hirata Hiroshi , Ota-Kontani Ami , Miyata Hiroshi , Kobayashi Naoyuki , Tsuchiya Youichi , Suzuki Hiroshi
Published: June 2020

The beneficial effects of fatty acids (FAs) on human health have attracted widespread interest. However, little is known about the impact of FAs on the handling of urate, the end-product of human purine metabolism, in the body. Increased serum urate levels occur in hyperuricemia, a disease that can lead to gout. In humans, urate filtered by the glomerulus of the kidney is majorly re-absorbed from primary urine into the blood via the urate transporter 1 (URAT1)-mediated pathway. URAT1 inhibition, thus, contributes to decreasing serum urate concentration by increasing net renal urate excretion. Here, we investigated the URAT1-inhibitory effects of 25 FAs that are commonly contained in foods or produced in the body. For this purpose, we conducted an in vitro transport assay using cells transiently expressing URAT1. Our results showed that unsaturated FAs, especially long-chain unsaturated FAs, inhibited URAT1 more strongly than saturated FAs. Among the tested unsaturated FAs, eicosapentaenoic acid, α-linolenic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid exhibited substantial URAT1-inhibitory activities, with half maximal inhibitory concentration values of 6.0, 14.2, and 15.2 μM, respectively. Although further studies are required to investigate whether the ω-3 polyunsaturated FAs can be employed as uricosuric agents, our findings further confirm FAs as nutritionally important substances influencing human health.
Annona muricata L.-Derived Polysaccharides as a Potential Adjuvant to a Dendritic Cell-Based Vaccine in a Thymoma-Bearing Model
Authors: Kim Woo Sik , Han Jeong Moo , Song Ha-Yeon , Byun Eui-Hong , Lim Seung-Taik , Byun Eui-Baek
Published: June 2020

Dendritic cells (DCs) are powerful antigen-presenting cells that are often used to evaluate adjuvants, particularly for adjuvant selection for various vaccines. Here, polysaccharides (named ALP) isolated from leaves of Annona muricata L., which are used in traditional medicine such as for bacterial infections and inflammatory diseases, were evaluated as an adjuvant candidate that can induce anti-tumor activity. We first confirmed the phenotypic (surface molecules, cytokines, antigen uptake, and antigen-presenting ability) and functional alterations (T cell proliferation/activation) of DCs in vitro. We also confirmed the adjuvant effect by evaluating anti-tumor activity and immunity using an ALP-treated DC-immunized mouse model. ALP functionally induced DC maturation by up-regulating the secretion of Th1-polarizing pro-inflammatory cytokines, the expression of surface molecules, and antigen-presenting ability. ALP triggered DC maturation, which is dependent on the activation of the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. ALP-activated DCs showed an ample capacity to differentiate naive T cells to Th1 and activated CD8+ T cells effectively. The systemic administration of DCs that pulse ALP and ovalbumin peptides strongly increased cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity (by 9.5% compared to that in the control vaccine groups), the generation of CD107a-producing multifunctional T cells, and Th1-mediated humoral immunity, and caused a significant reduction (increased protection by 29% over that in control vaccine groups) in tumor growth. ALP, which triggers the Th1 and CTL response, provides a basis for a new adjuvant for various vaccines.
A Novel Peptide Oligomer of Bacitracin Induces M1 Macrophage Polarization by Facilitating Ca2+ Influx
Authors: Ji Seon Yeong , Lee Hyesook , Hwangbo Hyun , Hong Su-Hyun , Cha Hee-Jae , Park Cheol , Kim Do-Hyung , Kim Gi-Young , Kim Suhkmann , Kim Heui-Soo , Yoo Jin Cheol , Choi Yung Hyun
Published: June 2020

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are components of the innate immune system and form the first defense against pathogens for various organisms. In the present study, we assessed whether CSP32, a novel AMP oligomer of bacitracin isolated from a strain of Bacillus spp., regulates the polarization of murine macrophage-like RAW 264.7 cells. CSP32 stimulated phagocytosis while inducing the appearance of the typical M1 polarized macrophage phenotype; these M1 macrophages play a role in host defense against pathogens. Furthermore, our results showed that CSP32 enhanced the expression and production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and chemokines. In addition, the CSP32-stimulated inflammatory mediators were induced mainly by the mitogen-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor kappa B (MAPK/NF-κB) signaling pathway during M1 macrophage polarization. In particular, CSP32 markedly increased the numbers of Ca2+-positive macrophages while upregulating phospholipase C and activating protein kinase Cε. Furthermore, the inhibition of intracellular Ca2+ by BAPTA-AM, a Ca2+ chelator, significantly suppressed the CSP32-mediated phagocytosis, inflammatory mediator production, and NF-κB activation. In conclusion, our data suggested that CSP32-stimulated M1 macrophage polarization is dependent on the calcium signaling pathway and may result in enhanced immune capacities.
Vegans, Vegetarians, and Omnivores: How Does Dietary Choice Influence Iodine Intake? A Systematic Review
Authors: Eveleigh Elizabeth R. , Coneyworth Lisa J. , Avery Amanda , Welham Simon J. M.
Published: June 2020

Vegan and vegetarian diets are becoming increasingly popular. Dietary restrictions may increase the risk of iodine deficiency. This systematic review aims to assess iodine intake and status in adults following a vegan or vegetarian diet in industrialised countries. A systematic review and quality assessment were conducted in the period May 2019–April 2020 according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were identified in Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and secondary sources. Fifteen articles met inclusion criteria. Participants included 127,094 adults (aged ≥ 18 years). Vegan groups presented the lowest median urinary iodine concentrations, followed by vegetarians, and did not achieve optimal status. The highest iodine intakes were recorded in female vegans (1448.0 ± 3879.0 µg day−1) and the lowest in vegetarians (15.6 ± 21.0 µg day−1). Omnivores recorded the greatest intake in 83% of studies. Seaweed contributed largely to diets of vegans with excessive iodine intake. Vegans appear to have increased risk of low iodine status, deficiency and inadequate intake compared with adults following less restrictive diets. Adults following vegan and vegetarian diets living in countries with a high prevalence of deficiency may be more vulnerable. Therefore, further monitoring of iodine status in industrialised countries and research into improving the iodine intake and status of adults following vegan and vegetarian diets is required.
Current Therapy in CKD Patients Can Affect Vitamin K Status
Authors: Cozzolino Mario , Cianciolo Giuseppe , Podestà Manuel Alfredo , Ciceri Paola , Galassi Andrea , Gasperoni Lorenzo , La Manna Gaetano
Published: June 2020

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients have a higher risk of cardiovascular (CVD) morbidity and mortality compared to the general population. The links between CKD and CVD are not fully elucidated but encompass both traditional and uremic-related risk factors. The term CKD-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) indicates a systemic disorder characterized by abnormal levels of calcium, phosphate, PTH and FGF-23, along with vitamin D deficiency, decreased bone mineral density or altered bone turnover and vascular calcification. A growing body of evidence shows that CKD patients can be affected by subclinical vitamin K deficiency; this has led to identifying such a condition as a potential therapeutic target given the specific role of Vitamin K in metabolism of several proteins involved in bone and vascular health. In other words, we can hypothesize that vitamin K deficiency is the common pathogenetic link between impaired bone mineralization and vascular calcification. However, some of the most common approaches to CKD, such as (1) low vitamin K intake due to nutritional restrictions, (2) warfarin treatment, (3) VDRA and calcimimetics, and (4) phosphate binders, may instead have the opposite effects on vitamin K metabolism and storage in CKD patients.
Docosahexaenoic Acid-Rich Fish Oil Supplementation Reduces Kinase Associated with Insulin Resistance in Overweight and Obese Midlife Adults
Authors: Thota Rohith N. , Rosato Jessica I. , Burrows Tracy L. , Dias Cintia B. , Abbott Kylie A. , Martins Ralph N. , Garg Manohar L.
Published: June 2020

Targeting kinases linked to insulin resistance (IR) and inflammation may help in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in its early stages. This study aimed to determine whether DHA-rich fish oil supplementation reduces glycogen synthase kinase (GSK-3), which is linked to both IR and AD. Baseline and post-intervention plasma samples from 58 adults with abdominal obesity (Age: 51.7 ± 1.7 years, BMI: 31.9 ± 0.8 kg/m2) were analysed for outcome measures. Participants were allocated to 2 g DHA-rich fish oil capsules (860 mg DHA + 120 mg EPA) (n = 31) or placebo capsules (n = 27) per day for 12 weeks. Compared to placebo, DHA-rich fish oil significantly reduced GSK-3β by −2.3 ± 0.3 ng/mL. An inverse correlation (p < 0.05) was found between baseline insulin and IR and their changes following intervention only in participants with C-reactive protein levels higher than 2.4 mg/L. DHA-rich fish oil reduces GSK-3 and IR, suggesting a potential role of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCn-3PUFA) in ameliorating AD risk.
Relationship between Selected Trace Elements and Hematological Parameters among Japanese Community Dwellers
Authors: Wai Kyi Mar , Sawada Kaori , Kumagai Mika , Itai Kazuyoshi , Tokuda Itoyo , Murashita Koichi , Nakaji Shigeyuki , Ihara Kazushige
Published: June 2020

This study aimed (1) to assess serum trace elements concentrations and hematological parameters, (2) to evaluate the sex differences in the associations between serum trace elements levels and hematological parameters, and (3) to identify the associations between serum trace elements concentrations and risk of anemia among Japanese community dwellers. This is a community-based cross-sectional study that utilized the data of the 2014 Iwaki Health Promotion Project. Participants were 1176 community dwellers (>18 years) residing in the Iwaki District, Aomori Prefecture, Japan. We assessed the data of serum trace elements concentrations of cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) as well as the hematological parameters of red blood cells (RBC) counts, hemoglobin, packed cells volume (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH). Serum concentrations of Zn (871.5 μg/L vs. 900.1 μg/L) and Fe (946.8 μg/L vs. 1096.1 μg/L) were significantly lower in females than in males, while serum concentrations of Co (0.4 μg/L vs. 0.3 μg/L) and Cu (1062.4 μg/L vs. 965.3 μg/L) were significantly higher in females. By multivariate linear regression, serum Se concentration was significantly, positively associated with PCV (β = 1.04; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.17, 1.92; p = 0.016) among the study participants. Serum Zn also had positive associations with hemoglobin (β = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.07, 0.77; p = 0.020), PCV (β = 1.79; 95% CI: 0.78, 2.81; p < 0.001), and RBCs count (β = 15.56; 95% CI: 7.31, 31.69; p = 0.002). On the other hand, serum Co concentration was negatively associated with the hematological parameters, particularly in females. Moreover, serum Zn concentration had a decreased risk of anemia (lowest vs. highest quartiles: odds ratio (OR) = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.23, 0.76; p = 0.005) while higher Co concentrations had an increased risk of anemia (lowest vs. highest quartiles: OR = 1.95; 95% CI: 1.04, 3.67; p = 0.037). However, no significant association was found between serum Cu level and hematological parameters. There were substantial sex differences in serum trace elements, implying that trace elements metabolism differed between males and females. Zn can play a protective role in the development of anemia. Surprisingly, increased Co concentration increased the risk of anemia among our study population, which called for further studies to confirm and to consider for speciation analysis.
Intra-Articular Route for the System of Molecules 14G1862 from Centella asiatica: Pain Relieving and Protective Effects in a Rat Model of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Micheli Laura , Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo , Mattoli Luisa , Tamimi Sara , Flamini Enrico , Garetto Stefano , Lucci Jacopo , Giovagnoni Emiliano , Cinci Lorenzo , D’Ambrosio Mario , Luceri Cristina , Ghelardini Carla
Published: June 2020

Current pharmacological therapies for the management of chronic articular diseases are far from being satisfactory, so new strategies need to be investigated. We tested the intra-articular pain relieving properties of a system of molecules from a characterized Centella asiatica extract (14G1862) in a rat model of osteoarthritis induced by monoiodoacetate (MIA). 14G1862 (0.2–2 mg mL−1) was intra-articularly (i.a.) injected 7 days after MIA, behavioural and histological evaluations were performed 14, 30 and 60 days after treatments. Moreover, the effect of 14G1862 on nitrate production and iNOS expression in RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated with LPS was assessed. In vitro, 14G1862 treatment attenuated LPS-induced NO production and iNOS expression in a comparable manner to celecoxib. In vivo, 14G1862 significantly reduced mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia, spontaneous pain and motor alterations starting on day 14 up to day 60. The efficacy was higher or comparable to that evoked by triamcinolone acetonide (100 μg i.a.) used as reference drug. Histological evaluation highlighted the improvement of several morphological parameters in MIA + 14G1862-treated animals with particularly benefic effects on joint space and fibrin deposition. In conclusion, i.a. treatment with Centella asiatica is a candidate to be a novel effective approach for osteoarthritis therapy.
Dietary β-Carotene Rescues Vitamin A Deficiency and Inhibits Atherogenesis in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice
Authors: Harari Ayelet , Melnikov Nir , Kandel Kfir Michal , Kamari Yehuda , Mahler Lidor , Ben-Amotz Ami , Harats Dror , Cohen Hofit , Shaish Aviv
Published: June 2020

Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a major health problem, especially in developing countries. In this study, we investigated the effect of VAD from weaning to adulthood in apoE−/− mice. Three-week-old male mice were allocated into four diet groups: I. VAD II. VAD+vitamin A (VA), 1500 IU retinyl-palmitate; III. VAD+β-carotene (BC), 6 g/kg feed, containing 50% all-trans and 50% 9-cis BC. IV. VAD with BC and VA (BC+VA). After 13 weeks, we assessed the size of atherosclerotic plaques and measured VA in tissues and BC in plasma and tissues. VAD resulted in diminished hepatic VA levels and undetectable brain VA levels compared to the other groups. BC completely replenished VA levels in the liver, and BC+VA led to a two-fold elevation of hepatic VA accumulation. In adipose tissue, mice fed BC+VA accumulated only 13% BC compared to mice fed BC alone. Atherosclerotic lesion area of BC group was 73% lower compared to VAD group (p < 0.05). These results suggest that BC can be a sole source for VA and inhibits atherogenesis.
Size Dependence of the Resonant Third-Order Nonlinear Refraction of Colloidal PbS Quantum Dots
Authors: Skurlov Ivan D. , Ponomareva Evgeniia A. , Ismagilov Azat O. , Putilin Sergey E. , Vovk Ilia A. , Sokolova Anastasiia V. , Tcypkin Anton N. , Litvin Aleksandr P.
Published: June 2020

Due to their high resonant third-order nonlinear response, lead sulfide quantum dots (QDs) are potential materials for applications in the field of nonlinear optics. In this paper, we implement the Z-scan method to study the resonant nonlinear response of lead sulfide QDs in colloidal solutions. We managed to measure the purely intrinsic resonant nonlinear response, free of thermal contribution. We report that the lead sulfide QD third-order nonlinear response per QD shows an unconventional increase. A figure of merit for QD nonlinearity grows as a power function with a factor of 2.9.
A Market Concentration Analysis of the Biomass Sector in Romania
Authors: Busu Mihail
Published: June 2020

The degree of market concentration is an important investigative tool used by competition authorities, as well as any public entity or undertaking that is interested in a specific market. There are several market concentration indices, but the most popular measure for computing the degree of market concentration is the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI). However, a limitation of this indicator is that its computation requires data on all the entities that are active in a market. Therefore, due to the large number of companies in some specific markets, sometimes it is cumbersome to compute the HHI. The aim of this paper was to develop an algorithm to estimate as accurately as possible the HHI in such cases, so that the degree of market concentration can be identified. An interdisciplinary application of this method on the Romanian biomass sector is presented at the end of this paper.
Grain-Size Specific Characterisation and Resource Potentials of Municipal Solid Waste Incineration (MSWI) Bottom Ash: A German Case Study
Authors: Vateva Iveta , Laner David
Published: June 2020

Municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) is a major element of modern waste management and produces annually around 5.7 million tonnes of bottom ash (BA) in Germany. In order to save natural resources and protect the environment, utilisable materials need to be recovered from BA. It was the aim of the present study to determine metal and mineral resource potentials of MSWI BA based on a characterisation study of raw and aged BA of the MSWI plant in Kassel (Germany). The BA investigated consisted of 82.2% mineral materials, 16.3% metals, and 1.5% unburnt organic matter. Overall, 12.1% and 3.6% of the MSWI BA were theoretically recoverable as native ferrous (Fe) and non-ferrous (NFe) metals, respectively. Assuming state-of-the-art recovery technology, 10.7% and 2.0% of the BA were actually extractable as Fe and NFe metals. The processed BA, as a mixture, did not comply with current German limit values for use as a construction material mainly due to excessive soluble salt contents. Coarser grain size fractions were less contaminated, resulting in a utilisable potential of less than 30% of the BA as a construction material. Hence, grain-size specific processing routes need to be developed for MSWI BA to fully exploit its mineral resource potential.
Copula-Based Assessment of Co-Movement and Tail Dependence Structure Among Major Trading Foreign Currencies in Ghana
Authors: Mensah Prince Osei , Adam Anokye M.
Published: June 2020

This paper examines the joint movement and tail dependence structure between the pair of foreign exchange rates (EUR, USD and GBP) against the GHS, using daily exchange rates data expressed in GHS per unit of foreign currencies (EUR, USD and GBP) between the time range of 24 February 2009 and 19 December 2019. We use different sets of both static (time-invariant) and time-varying copulas with different levels of dependence and tail dependence measures, and the study results reveal positive dependence between all exchange rates pairs, though the dependencies for EUR-USD and GBP-USD pairs are not as strong as the EUR-GBP pair. The findings also reveal symmetric tail dependence, and dependence evolves over time. Notwithstanding this, the asymmetric tail dependence copulas provide evidence of upper tail dependence. We compare the copula results to DCC(1,1)-GARCH(1,1) model result and find the copula to be more sensitive to extreme co-movement between the currency pairs. The afore-mentioned findings, therefore, offer forex market players the opportunity to relax in hoarding a particular foreign currency in anticipation of domestic currency depreciation.
Hydrophilic Liquid Chromatography versus Reversed-Phase Liquid Chromatography in the Absence and the Presence of 1-Hexyl-3-methylimidazolium Chloride for the Analysis of Basic Compounds
Authors: Peris-García Ester , Burgos-Gil Raquel , García-Alvarez-Coque María Celia , Ruiz-Angel María José
Published: June 2020

In reversed-phase liquid chromatography (RPLC), positively charged basic compounds yield broad and asymmetric peaks, as a result of ionic interactions with free silanols that remain on conventional silica-based columns. Diverse solutions have been proposed to mask the silanophilic activity, which is translated to an improved peak shape. In this work, the chromatographic performance of hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) was evaluated as an alternative to the addition of an ionic liquid (IL) to the aqueous-organic mobile phase used with RPLC columns, for the analysis of eight β-adrenoceptor antagonists. ILs change the behavior of RPLC stationary phases owing to adsorption on their surface. Meanwhile, in HILIC, a layer of adsorbed water is formed on the stationary phase surface. The association of cationic basic compounds with the adsorbed additive ions, hydrophilic partitioning on the HILIC columns, and other interactions, give rise to complex retention mechanisms. The chromatographic behavior was examined in terms of retention, elution strength, selectivity, peak shape and resolution, using acetonitrile-water mobile phases buffered at pH 3. Both chromatographic modes, RPLC with added IL and HILIC, proved to be a viable solution to the problem of poor peak shape for basic compounds.
Bioprinting’s Introduction within the Context of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Malaysia’s Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 through the Right to Science
Authors: Abdul Majid Marina
Published: June 2020

Advances in bioprinting have enabled scientists to develop tissue and organs for the formation of artificial ears and noses, the treatment of injured joints because of arthritis, and the provision of medical care to people with disabilities. Malaysia’s disabled population can benefit from bioprinting because the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and Malaysia’s Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 (PDA 2008) both include an indirect right to science expressed through the promotion of research and development (R&D), technology transfer, and new technologies. This qualitative study aims to identify relevant provisions within the CRPD and PDA 2008 that could support bioprinting research. This study utilises a multidisciplinary approach that combines biomedicine, law, and the social sciences. It analyses the travaux préparatoires of CRPD negotiations, the CRPD, the PDA 2008, and related documents for clues that negotiators once considered as the right to science. The results show that the travaux préparatoires of CRPD negotiations refer to biomedicine, while Article 4(1) (g)–(h) of the CRPD and Articles 9(1) (k) and 33(3) of the PDA 2008 refer to R&D, new technologies, and technology transfer, all of which indirectly imply the right to science and enable the introduction of bioprinting.
Assistive Technologies: Social Barriers and Socio-Technical Pathways
Authors: Nierling Linda , Maia Maria
Published: June 2020

Against the background of recent international regulation, the role of assistive technologies in the fields of independent living, education, and employment is analyzed in this article to propose a future strategy for a socio-technical perspective on their further development processes. Based on qualitative expert interviews at the European level, the role and scope of ATs in these fields are described for three types of disabilities: visual impairment, hearing impairment, and autism spectrum disorder. The findings show that digitalization processes entail major opportunities and challenges for ATs in all three fields and that further measures are needed to bring technical opportunities to their full potential in adverse social contexts. Regarding future technology development, the authors propose a development strategy focusing strongly on the social context of the devices. Only in this manner, relevant “unintended consequences”, as well as social or ethical concerns, can be identified and addressed.
Dynamic Response Systems of Healthcare Mask Production to COVID-19: A Case Study of Korea
Authors: Lee EunSu , Chen Yi-Yu , McDonald Melanie , O’Neill Erin
Published: June 2020

Korea initiated a new experiment, called a dynamic response system for open democratic societies as a principle to respond to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The global pandemic of COVID-19 led to a surge in demand for healthcare medical masks and respirators, and strained the global supply chain of mask production and distribution systems. This study provides a systemic view of critical personal protective equipment for both healthcare staff and the public to stop the spread of COVID-19. This study investigates the dynamic response system of healthcare mask production to the coronavirus and discusses lessons learned in view of systems thinking. The study shows that it is critical to developing a quick and dynamic response system to the evolving market conditions with flexible and agile operations. Visibility with transparency with information sharing with the public is also critical under global pandemic. Due to the shortage of mask supply, smart consumption is required along with collaboration with public and private sectors, as well as global organizations. Democratic leadership and a well-prepared strategic plan for long-term period are essential to the open society to prepare the global pandemic in the future. This study serves as a benchmark for dynamic and timely responses to the global pandemic.
A Novel Inducible Prophage from Burkholderia vietnamiensis G4 Is Widely Distributed across the Species and Has Lytic Activity against Pathogenic Burkholderia
Authors: Weiser Rebecca , Yap Zhong Ling , Otter Ashley , Jones Brian V. , Salvage Jonathan , Parkhill Julian , Mahenthiralingam Eshwar
Published: June 2020

Burkholderia species have environmental, industrial and medical significance, and are important opportunistic pathogens in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF). Using a combination of existing and newly determined genome sequences, this study investigated prophage carriage across the species B. vietnamiensis, and also isolated spontaneously inducible prophages from a reference strain, G4. Eighty-one B. vietnamiensis genomes were bioinformatically screened for prophages using PHASTER (Phage Search Tool Enhanced Release) and prophage regions were found to comprise up to 3.4% of total genetic material. Overall, 115 intact prophages were identified and there was evidence of polylysogeny in 32 strains. A novel, inducible Mu-like phage (vB_BvM-G4P1) was isolated from B. vietnamiensis G4 that had lytic activity against strains of five Burkholderia species prevalent in CF infections, including the Boston epidemic B. dolosa strain SLC6. The cognate prophage to vB_BvM-G4P1 was identified in the lysogen genome and was almost identical (>93.5% tblastx identity) to prophages found in 13 other B. vietnamiensis strains (17% of the strain collection). Phylogenomic analysis determined that the G4P1-like prophages were widely distributed across the population structure of B. vietnamiensis. This study highlights how genomic characterization of Burkholderia prophages can lead to the discovery of novel bacteriophages with potential therapeutic or biotechnological applications.
Fatal Dengue Cases Reveal Brain Injury and Viral Replication in Brain-Resident Cells Associated with the Local Production of Pro-Inflammatory Mediators
Authors: Salomão Natália , Rabelo Kíssila , Basílio-de-Oliveira Carlos , Basílio-de-Oliveira Rodrigo , Geraldo Luiz , Lima Flávia , dos Santos Flávia , Nuovo Gerard , Oliveira Edson R. A. , Paes Marciano
Published: June 2020

Dengue is an arboviral disease caused by dengue virus (DENV), which is transmitted to humans by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Infection by DENV most commonly results in a mild flu-like illness; however, the disease has been increasingly associated with neurological symptomatology. This association draws attention to further investigations on the impact of DENV infection in the host’s central nervous system. Here, we analyzed brain samples of three fatal dengue cases that occurred in 2002 during an outbreak in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Brain tissues of these cases were marked by histopathological alterations, such as degenerated neurons, demyelination, hemorrhage, edema, and increased numbers of astrocytes and microglial cells. Samples were also characterized by lymphocytic infiltrates mainly composed of CD8 T cells. DENV replication was evidenced in neurons, microglia and endothelial cells through immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization techniques. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IFN-γ were detected in microglia, while endothelial cells were marked by the expression of RANTES/CCL5. Cytoplasmic HMGB1 and the production of nitric oxide were also found in neurons and microglial cells. This work highlights the possible participation of several local pro-inflammatory mediators in the establishment of dengue neuropathogenesis.
Immunohistochemical Studies of Cytokeratins and Differentiation Markers in Bovine Ocular Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Vala Helena , Carvalho Tânia , Pinto Carlos , Pereira Maria A. , Mesquita João R. , Peleteiro Maria C. , Ferrer Lluís , Fondevila Dolores
Published: June 2020

Bovine Ocular Squamous Cell Carcinoma is considered the most common bovine tumour, causing significant economic losses, mainly by abattoir condemnations. To obtain a better insight into the genesis and neoplastic transformation, 19 samples collected at slaughter from Holstein Friesian cattle and diagnosed as Ocular Squamous Cell Carcinoma were studied. Tumours were histologically classified into three categories: poorly (26.3%), moderately (26.3%), and well differentiated (47.4%). Expression of keratins (MNF116 and LP34) and of cornified envelope precursors (involucrin and profilaggrin) was studied. Expression of MNF116 was observed in all carcinomas. LP34 immunostaining was seen in all but three carcinomas, one from each degree. Involucrin immunoreaction was observed in all but one poorly differentiated carcinoma. Profilaggrin was present in only two moderately differentiated carcinomas, in all but one well differentiated, and in all but one poorly differentiated. MNF116 is a useful marker to confirm the epithelial origin of the tumour and stain most neoplastic cells in these tumours. The expression of involucrin and LP34 demonstrates that, in all tumours, cells have reached the final program of differentiation, regardless of the grade. The expression of profilaggrin could indicate molecular changes during malignant transformation but their expression does not seem to be of diagnostic value.
Perspective-Taking: In Search of a Theory
Authors: Cole Geoff G. , Millett Abbie C. , Samuel Steven , Eacott Madeline J.
Published: June 2020

Perspective-taking has been one of the central concerns of work on social attention and developmental psychology for the past 60 years. Despite its prominence, there is no formal description of what it means to represent another’s viewpoint. The present article argues that such a description is now required in the form of theory—a theory that should address a number of issues that are central to the notion of assuming another’s viewpoint. After suggesting that the mental imagery debate provides a good framework for understanding some of the issues and problems surrounding perspective-taking, we set out nine points that we believe any theory of perspective-taking should consider.
STUDY OF SORPTION OF NICKEL ION WITH FIBROUS ADSORBENTS
Authors: Smolenskaya L. , Rybina S. , Rybin V. , Litvin P.
Published: June 2020

Technological processes of processing of metal products and galvanic production are characterized by large volumes of wastewater containing ions of heavy metals, in particular as a result of Nickel plating products in wastewater in the predominant amount fall ions Ni2+. To assess the possibility of removing pollution from this type of wastewater, the process of adsorption purification of model Nickel-containing wastewater was investigated. As adsorbents modified nitrogen-containing polyvinyl alcohol, polycaproamide, hydrocellulose fiber were used. Modification of this type of fibers allows fixing functionally active groups on the surface of adsorbent. It is established that the fibrous adsorbents have a high adsorption capacity towards Nickel ion(II), the magnitude of adsorption is in the range of 80-100 mg/g. The predominant mechanism is monomolecular chemisorption. Adsorption proceeds at high speeds, the balance is achieved in the first 20 minutes of the process. The effect of pH on complex formation in the phase of adsorbents is revealed. It is shown that in a strongly acidic medium the purification efficiency is small, the increase in pH leads to increased adsorption properties of fibers. The optimal value of the acidity of the solution are pH values above 5. A decrease in the amount of coordinated nitrogen with an increase in pH was determined. In assessing the selectivity of fibers with respect to Ni2+ in the presence of Zn2+ and Cu2+, the influence of matrix polymer effect was revealed. Adsorption on polyvinyl alcohol and polycaproamide fibers showed that the influence of zinc ions(II) on the adsorption of Nickel (II) increases with its concentration in the solution, and hydrate cellulose fiber has a higher selectivity with respect to Zn2+ion. The presence of Cu2+ leads to a significant decrease in the efficiency of model wastewater treatment from Nickel ions (II) on all types of adsorbents studied