bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Herbal Medicine for the Treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Ang Lin , Song Eunhye , Lee Hye Won , Lee Myeong Soo
Published: May 2020

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused a worldwide outbreak of respiratory illness. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness and adverse events of herbal medicines for the treatment of COVID-19. Methods: Twelve databases were searched through 12 May 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs assessing the effects of herbal medicines for the treatment of COVID-19 were eligible. The study selection and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used for the assessment of the risk of bias in all included RCTs. Mean differences (MDs), risk ratios (RRs) and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and the effect sizes of the studies were pooled. Results: Seven RCTs with a total of 855 patients were included. All included trials compared the combined therapy of herbal medicine with Western medicine to Western medicine alone. The combined therapy significantly improved the total effective rate (RR 1.23, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.34, p < 0.001), cough symptom disappearance rate (RR 1.45, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.89, p = 0.005), and sputum production symptom disappearance rate (RR 1.73, 95% CI 1.19 to 2.50, p = 0.004). Beneficial effects of the combined therapy were also seen in TCM syndrome score of cough (MD −1.18, 95% CI −1.34 to −1.03, p < 0.001), fever (MD −0.62, 95% CI −0.79 to −0.45, p < 0.001), dry and sore throat (MD −0.83, 95% CI −1.45 to −0.20, p = 0.009), and fatigue (MD −0.60, 95% CI −1.04 to −0.17, p = 0.007). The overall risk of bias of the included studies was unclear. No serious adverse events were reported. Conclusion: Significant effects of the combined therapy of herbal medicine with Western medicine were found, and revealed the potential role of herbal medicine in treating COVID-19. More high-quality RCTs are needed to further validate the effectiveness and adverse events of herbal medicine in the treatment of COVID-19.
Anti-angiogenesis and Immunotherapy: Novel Paradigms to Envision Tailored Approaches in Renal Cell-Carcinoma
Authors: Argentiero Antonella , Solimando Antonio Giovanni , Krebs Markus , Leone Patrizia , Susca Nicola , Brunetti Oronzo , Racanelli Vito , Vacca Angelo , Silvestris Nicola
Published: May 2020

Although decision making strategy based on clinico-histopathological criteria is well established, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) represents a spectrum of biological ecosystems characterized by distinct genetic and molecular alterations, diverse clinical courses and potential specific therapeutic vulnerabilities. Given the plethora of drugs available, the subtype-tailored treatment to RCC subtype holds the potential to improve patient outcome, shrinking treatment-related morbidity and cost. The emerging knowledge of the molecular taxonomy of RCC is evolving, whilst the antiangiogenic and immunotherapy landscape maintains and reinforces their potential. Although several prognostic factors of survival in patients with RCC have been described, no reliable predictive biomarkers of treatment individual sensitivity or resistance have been identified. In this review, we summarize the available evidence able to prompt more precise and individualized patient selection in well-designed clinical trials, covering the unmet need of medical choices in the era of next-generation anti-angiogenesis and immunotherapy.
Effects of a Red Orange and Lemon Extract in Obese Diabetic Zucker Rats: Role of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate Oxidase
Authors: Damiano Sara , Lauritano Chiara , Longobardi Consiglia , Andretta Emanuela , Elagoz Ali Murat , Rapisarda Paolo , Di Iorio Mattia , Florio Salvatore , Ciarcia Roberto
Published: May 2020

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the primary cause of end-stage renal disease, worldwide, and oxidative stress has been recognized as a key factor in the pathogenesis and progression of DN. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase has the most important contribution to reactive oxygen species generation during the development of DN. Bioactive compound use has emerged as a potential approach to reduce chronic renal failure. Therefore, a red orange and lemon extract (RLE) rich in anthocyanins was chosen in our study, to reduce the toxic renal effects during the development of DN in Zucker diabetic fatty rat (ZDF). RLE effects were examined daily for 24 weeks, through gavage, in ZDF rats treated with RLE (90 mg/kg). At the end of the experiment, ZDF rats treated with RLE showed a reduction of the diabetes-associated up-regulation of both NOX4 and the p47-phox and p22-phox subunits, and restored the BAX/BCL-2 ratio respect to ZDF rats. Furthermore, RLE was able to reduce the oxidative DNA damage measured in urine samples in ZDF rats. This study showed that RLE could prevent the renal damage induced by DN through its capacity to inhibit NOX4 and apoptosis mechanisms.
Development of Machine Learning Strategy for Predicting the Risk Range of Ship’s Berthing Velocity
Authors: Lee Hyeong-Tak , Lee Jeong-Seok , Son Woo-Ju , Cho Ik-Soon
Published: May 2020

Ships are prone to accidents when approaching in a berthing velocity greater than that allowed when determining the risk range corresponding to a port. Therefore, this study develops a machine learning strategy to predict the risk range of an unsafe berthing velocity when the ship approaches in port. To perform analysis, the input parameters were based on the factors affecting the berthing velocity, and the output parameter, i.e., the berthing velocity, was measured at a tanker terminal in the Republic of Korea. Nine machine learning classification algorithms were used to analyze each model, and the top four optimal models were selected through evaluation methods based on the confusion matrix. As a result of the analysis, extra trees, random forest, bagging, and gradient boosting classifiers were identified as good models. As a result of testing using the receiving operator characteristic curve, it was confirmed that the area under the curve of the most dangerous range of berthing velocity was the highest, thus, the risk range was appropriately classified. As such, the derived models can classify and predict the risk range of unsafe berthing velocity before approaching a port; therefore, it is possible to safely berth a ship.
Particle Entrapment in Line Elastohydrodynamic Contacts and the Influence of Intermolecular (van der Waals) Forces
Authors: Nikas George K.
Published: May 2020

A metallic particle passing through concentrated rolling-sliding contacts is often linked to surface damage for particles larger than the available gap. At the instant of particle pinching, force balancing dictates particle entrapment and passing through the contact or rejection. It is vital to include all major forces in this process. This study revisits the analytical entrapment model previously published by the author for spherical micro-particles by incorporating a force so far overlooked in related studies, namely the van der Waals intermolecular force and, additionally, surface roughness effects. In conjunction with particle mechanical and fluid forces, this provides an almost complete set to use for correct force balancing. A parametric analysis shows the effect of several geometrical, mechanical, rheological, and surface parameters on spherical particle entrapment and reveals the significance of the van der Waals force for particles smaller than about 5–10 μm in diameter.
Sclerotherapy of Vascular Malformations in the Oral Cavity—Minimizing Postoperative Morbidity
Authors: Zeevi Itai , Chaushu Gavriel , Alterman Michael , Chaushu Liat
Published: May 2020

Vascular malformations (VMs) are a wide vascular or lymphatic group of lesions common on the head and neck. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and morbidity of sclerotherapy for the treatment of VMs in the oral and perioral area. Special attention was given to factors that may contribute to minimizing postoperative morbidity. Data from 25 patients (32 lesions) with oral VMs submitted to sclerotherapy with monoethanolamine oleate (EAO) were included. A structured form was used to collect data. An arbitrary score was determined to evaluate postoperative morbidity. Each of the following signs or symptoms received one point: pain, swelling, hematoma, ulceration, erythema, transient numbness, and transient itching. Pain and swelling were further divided into mild to moderate (1 point) and severe (2 points). Theoretically, the score was in the range of 0–9. Calculated scores ranged 0–4. The patients were further divided into two groups with scores of 0–1 denoting minimal morbidity (MIN) and 2–4 denoting significant morbidity (SIG). The number of lesions in each morbidity-score group were comparable (MIN 17and SIG 15). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups regarding age, number of applications, or average injection volume per mm lesion. Statistically significant differences were noted regarding gender (p = 0.05), lesion diameter (p = 0.030), total volume of first (p = 0.007) and second application (p = 0.05), and total injected volume (p = 0.03). Factors contributing to the risk for significant morbidity included being male, lesion diameter > 5 mm, volume > 0.3 mL per application, and total injected volume > 0.3 mL. A waiting time of 12 weeks prior to additional EAO application was required in 12 out of 29 lesions for clinical observation of complete regression. It was concluded that sclerotherapy with EAO as monotherapy is easy to apply, safe, and effective within a small number of sessions. Application of <0.3 mL EAO per session, and a waiting time of 12 weeks prior to the second application, would significantly minimize morbidity.
Kinetics Study of Solvent and Solid-Phase Extraction of Rare Earth Metals with Di-2-Ethylhexylphosphoric Acid
Authors: Cheremisina Olga , Sergeev Vasiliy , Ponomareva Maria , Ilina Alexandra , Fedorov Alexander
Published: May 2020

The kinetic features of solvent and solid-phase extraction of yttrium and iron (III) from simulated and industrial phosphoric acid solutions are revealed. Di-2-ethylhexylphosphoric acid (D2EHPA) was used as a liquid extractant, and D2EHPA-containing Levextrel resin—a co-polymerization product of styrene and divinylbenzene in the presence of D2EHPA—was used as a solid-phase extraction agent. Significant dependence of yttrium extraction rate constant on the stirring rate was revealed using the formal first-order kinetic equation. The data obtained characterizes a diffusion-limited process with an activation energy of 16.2 ± 1.3 kJ/mol. Temperature increase during the iron (III) extraction process leads to a changeover of a rate-limiting stage from kinetic to diffusion, accompanied by drop of activation energy from 40.0 ± 1.4 to 11.4 ± 1.2 kJ/mol. Effective separation of elements at the extraction stage is possible at temperatures of 283–300 K under non-equilibrium conditions of the ferric ions transport from aqueous to organic phase. This condition ensures a high yttrium–iron separation coefficient of 23.2 in 1.5–2 min. Extraction kinetics by Levextrel resin are described by Fick’s second law equation, which establishes the laws of diffusion in the solid grain of the organic phase with an activation energy of 18.5 ± 2.0 kJ/mol.
Analytical Model to Compare and Select Creep Constitutive Equation for Stress Relief Investigation during Heat Treatment in Ferritic Welded Structure
Authors: Hu Mengjia , Li Kejian , Li Shanlin , Cai Zhipeng , Pan Jiluan
Published: May 2020

The one-dimensional analytical model was promoted to help select the creep constitutive equation and predict heat treatment temperature in a ferritic welded structure, along with neglecting the impact of structural constraint and deformation compatibility. The analytical solutions were compared with simulation results, which were validated with experimental measurements in a ferritic welded rotor. The as-welded and post weld heat treatment (PWHT) residual stresses on the inner and outer cylindrical surfaces were measured with the hole-drilling method (HDM) for validation. Based on the one-dimensional analytical model, different effects of Norton and Norton-Bailey creep constitutive equation on stress relief during heat treatment in a ferritic welded rotor were investigated.
Analysis of the Behavior of Dynamic Resistance, Electrical Energy and Force between the Electrodes in Resistance Spot Welding Using Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Batista Márcio , Furlanetto Valdir , Duarte Brandi Sérgio
Published: May 2020

This work is aimed at the analysis of the dynamic resistance, electrical energy and behavior of the force between electrodes (including thermal expansion) during welding at optimized parameters, referring to the process of spot welding using additive manufacturing (AMSW). For comparative purposes, this analysis also includes the conventional resistance spot welding process (RSW). The experiments were done on low carbon-zinc-coated sheets used in the automotive industry. The results regarding the welding process using additive manufacturing (AMSW), in comparison to the conventional resistance spot welding (RSW), showed that the dynamic resistance presented a different behavior due to the collapse of the deposition at the beginning of the welding, and that a smaller magnitude of electrical energy (approximately <3.35 times) is required to produce a welding spot approved in accordance with the norm. No force of thermal expansion was observed during the passage of the current, in contrast, there was a decrease in the force between the electrodes due to the collapse of the deposition at the beginning of the welding.
Compositional Optimization and Structural Properties of the Filled Skutterudite Smy(FexNi1−x)4Sb11.5Sn0.5
Authors: Artini Cristina , Carlini Riccardo , Gigli Lara , Fanciulli Carlo
Published: May 2020

A compositional and crystallographic study was carried out on the Smy(FexNi1−x)4Sb11.5Sn0.5 filled skutterudite system (0.40 ≤ x ≤ 0.80) with the aim to determine the equilibrium Sm filling fraction (y) within the considered x range. The relevance of the material lies in its potential thermoelectric properties: in analogy with similar skutterudites systems, these features should in fact result as being improved with respect to the ones of the corresponding Sn-free system thanks to the partial substitution of Sn for Sb, which is expected to lower the phonon thermal conductivity. The results of Rietveld refinements allowed us to study the skutterudite structural properties and to discuss them, adopting a comparative approach with respect to the ones of the Sn-free system Smy(FexNi1−x)4Sb12. Relying on the refined Sm occupancy factors, the p/n crossover is shown to be located at x ~ 0.53, meaning that the introduction of Sn induces an enlargement of the p-region; moreover, at variance with the Sn-free system, the coefficient of thermal expansion does not show any significant mismatch between n- and p-compositions, which should ensure a prolonged lifetime of a device made of n- and p-legs that both derive from the studied system.
Effect of Partial Solution Treatment Temperature on Microstructure and Tensile Properties of 440C Martensitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Syarif Junaidi , H. Yousuf Mohammad , Sajuri Zainuddin , Baghdadi Amir Hossein , Merabtene Mahdi , Omar Mohd Zaidi
Published: May 2020

The 440C martensitic stainless steel is considered to be among the hardest steels, owing to its high carbon content. Careful heat treatment of this material introduces multiple carbide particles, which can alter microstructure and mechanical properties. This study focused on the effect of austenitisation temperature on the microstructure and tensile properties of 440C steel. Austenitisation was performed on the austenite + carbide region, because 440C steel lacks a single-phase region. The steel was austenitised at two different temperatures; namely, 1160 °C and 950 °C, and subjected to oil quenching. The as-quenched samples showed a typical lath martensite structure with retained austenite phase. The treatments at 1160 °C and 950 °C promoted the formation of M7C3 and M23C6 carbides, respectively. The austenite grains in the sample treated at 1160 °C showed a higher growth rate than those in the sample treated at 950 °C. The sample treated at 1160 °C showed low-fraction and a large-size carbide phase. The Zener pinning force decreased, thereby increasing the austenite grain growth in the sample treated at 1160 °C. The hardness and 0.2% proof stress of the sample treated at 950 °C were higher than those of the sample treated at 1160 °C, owing to the higher martensite content in the former. The strength–ductility balance of the sample treated at 950 °C was higher than that of the sample treated at 1160 °C. The decreased austenitisation temperature resulted in improved mechanical properties of the steel. Therefore, the austenitisation temperature alters the microstructure and mechanical properties of 440C steel.
Characterization of Mineralogy in the Highland Valley Porphyry Cu District Using Hyperspectral Imaging, and Potential Applications
Authors: Lypaczewski Philip , Rivard Benoit , Lesage Guillaume , Byrne Kevin , D’Angelo Michael , Lee Robert G.
Published: May 2020

The Highland Valley Copper (HVC) district in British Columbia, Canada, is host to at least four major porphyry Cu systems: Bethlehem (~209 Ma), and Valley, Lornex, and Highmont (~208 to 207 Ma). High spatial resolution (0.2–1.0 mm/pixel) hyperspectral imagery in the shortwave infrared (SWIR) were acquired on 755 rock samples and 400 m of continuous drill core. Spectral metrics are used to measure the relative abundance of 12 minerals and an additional metric is derived to estimate white mica grain size. In the Valley and Lornex deposits, coarse-grained white mica is associated with mineralization and is detectable up to 4 km away from the deposits. Kaolinite is present within 2 km of the mineralized centers but does not necessarily occur within strongly mineralized intervals. Prehnite is ubiquitous from 4 to 8 km from the deposits. In the Bethlehem deposit, tourmaline and epidote are associated with mineralization. We propose a spectral alteration score based on these proximal hyperspectral SWIR mineralogical patterns to assist explorers in targeting porphyry Cu systems when using drill core, surface rock samples and potentially remote sensing imagery. In a production environment, this metric could serve to facilitate ore-sorting.
Cross-Linked Microencapsulation of CO2 Supercritical Extracted Oleoresins from Sea Buckthorn: Evidence of Targeted Functionality and Stability
Authors: Neagu Corina , Mihalcea Liliana , Enachi Elena , Barbu Vasilica , Borda Daniela , Bahrim Gabriela Elena , Stănciuc Nicoleta
Published: May 2020

Oleoresin supercritical extracts from sea buckthorn were microencapsulated in whey proteins isolate and casein, in two states: native (N) and cross-linked mediated by transglutaminase (TG). The encapsulation efficiency showed values higher than 92% for total carotenoids and lycopene. Phytochemicals content was 352.90 ± 1.02 mg/g dry weight (DW) for total carotenoids in TG and 302.98 ± 2.30 mg/g DW in N, with antioxidant activity of 703.13 ± 23.60 mMol Trolox/g DW and 608.74 ± 7.12 mMol Trolox/g DW, respectively. Both powders had an inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase, of about 40% for N and 35% for TG. The presence of spherosomes was highlighted, with sizes ranging between 15.23–73.41 µm and an agglutination tendency in N, and lower sizes, up to 35 µm in TG. The in vitro digestibility revealed a prolonged release in an intestinal environment, up to 65% for TG. Moisture sorption isotherms were studied at 20 °C and the shape of curves corresponds to sigmoidal type II model. The presence of cross-linked mediated aggregates in TG powders improved stability and flowability. Our results can be used as evidence that cross-linked aggregates mediated by transglutaminase applied for microencapsulation of oleoresins have the potential to become new delivery systems, for carotenoids and lycopene, being valuable in terms of their attractive color and biological and bioaccessibility properties.
Antiobesity Effects of Gentiana lutea Extract on 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes and a High-Fat Diet-Induced Mouse Model
Authors: Park Eunkuk , Lee Chang Gun , Kim Junho , Yeo Subin , Kim Ji Ae , Choi Chun Whan , Jeong Seon-Yong
Published: May 2020

Obesity is one of the most common metabolic diseases resulting in metabolic syndrome. In this study, we investigated the antiobesity effect of Gentiana lutea L. (GL) extract on 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and a high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced mouse model. For the induction of preadipocytes into adipocytes, 3T3-L1 cells were induced by treatment with 0.5 mM 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, 1 mM dexamethasone, and 1 μg/mL insulin. Adipogenesis was assessed based on the messenger ribonucleic acid expression of adipogenic-inducing genes (adiponectin (Adipoq), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (Cebpa), and glucose transporter type 4 (Slc2a4)) and lipid accumulation in the differentiated adipocytes was visualized by Oil Red O staining. In vivo, obese mice were induced with HFD and coadministered with 100 or 200 mg/kg/day of GL extract for 12 weeks. GL extract treatment inhibited adipocyte differentiation by downregulating the expression of adipogenic-related genes in 3T3-L1 cells. In the obese mouse model, GL extract prevented HFD-induced weight gain, fatty hepatocyte deposition, and adipocyte size by decreasing the secretion of leptin and insulin. In conclusion, GL extract shows antiobesity effects in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that this extract can be beneficial in the prevention of obesity.
A Direct Silanization Protocol for Dialdehyde Cellulose
Authors: Lucia Arianna , Bacher Markus , van Herwijnen Hendrikus W. G. , Rosenau Thomas
Published: May 2020

Cellulose derivatives have many potential applications in the field of biomaterials and composites, in addition to several ways of modification leading to them. Silanization in aqueous media is one of the most promising routes to create multipurpose and organic–inorganic hybrid materials. Silanization has been widely used for cellulosic and nano-structured celluloses, but was a problem so far if to be applied to the common cellulose derivative “dialdehyde cellulose” (DAC), i.e., highly periodate-oxidized celluloses. In this work, a straightforward silanization protocol for dialdehyde cellulose is proposed, which can be readily modified with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane. After thermal treatment and freeze-drying, the resulting product showed condensation and cross-linking, which was studied with infrared spectroscopy and 13C and 29Si solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The cross-linking involves both links of the hydroxyl group of the oxidized cellulose with the silanol groups (Si-O-C) and imine-type bonds between the amino group and keto functions of the DAC (-HC=N-). The modification was achieved in aqueous medium under mild reaction conditions. Different treatments cause different levels of hydrolysis of the organosilane compound, which resulted in diverse condensed silica networks in the modified dialdehyde cellulose structure.
Reduction of Health Care-Associated Infections (HAIs) with Antimicrobial Inorganic Nanoparticles Incorporated in Medical Textiles: An Economic Assessment
Authors: Murphy Finbarr , Tchetchik Anat , Furxhi Irini
Published: May 2020

Health care-associated infections (HAIs) affect millions of patients annually with up to 80,000 affected in Europe on any given day. This represents a significant societal and economic burden. Staff training, hand hygiene, patient identification and isolation and controlled antibiotic use are some of the standard ways to reduce HAI incidence but this is time consuming and subject and subject to rigorous implementation. In addition, the lack of antimicrobial activity of some disinfectants against healthcare-associated pathogens may also affect the efficacy of disinfection practices. Textiles are an attractive substrate for pathogens because of contact with the human body with the attendant warmth and moisture. Textiles and surfaces coated with engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) have shown considerable promise in reducing the microbial burden on those surfaces. Studies have also shown that this antimicrobial affect can reduce the incidence of HAIs. For all of the promising research, there has been an absence of study on the economic effectiveness of ENM coated materials in a healthcare setting. This article examines the relative economic efficacy of ENM coated materials against an antiseptic approach. The goal is to establish the economic efficacy of the widespread usage of ENM coated materials in a healthcare setting. In the absence of detailed and segregated costs, benefits and control variables over at least cross sectional data or time series, an aggregated approach is warranted. This approach, while relying on some supposition allows for a comparison with similar data regarding standard treatment to reduce HAIs and provides a reasonable economic comparison. We find that while, relative to antiseptics, ENM coated textiles represent a significant clinical advantage, they can also offer considerable cost savings.
Interplay of Dietary Fatty Acids and Cholesterol Impacts Brain Mitochondria and Insulin Action
Authors: Schell Mareike , Chudoba Chantal , Leboucher Antoine , Alfine Eugenia , Flore Tanina , Ritter Katrin , Weiper Katharina , Wernitz Andreas , Henkel Janin , Kleinridders André
Published: May 2020

Overconsumption of high-fat and cholesterol-containing diets is detrimental for metabolism and mitochondrial function, causes inflammatory responses and impairs insulin action in peripheral tissues. Dietary fatty acids can enter the brain to mediate the nutritional status, but also to influence neuronal homeostasis. Yet, it is unclear whether cholesterol-containing high-fat diets (HFDs) with different combinations of fatty acids exert metabolic stress and impact mitochondrial function in the brain. To investigate whether cholesterol in combination with different fatty acids impacts neuronal metabolism and mitochondrial function, C57BL/6J mice received different cholesterol-containing diets with either high concentrations of long-chain saturated fatty acids or soybean oil-derived poly-unsaturated fatty acids. In addition, CLU183 neurons were stimulated with combinations of palmitate, linoleic acid and cholesterol to assess their effects on metabolic stress, mitochondrial function and insulin action. The dietary interventions resulted in a molecular signature of metabolic stress in the hypothalamus with decreased expression of occludin and subunits of mitochondrial electron chain complexes, elevated protein carbonylation, as well as c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation. Palmitate caused mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) resistance, while cholesterol and linoleic acid did not cause functional alterations. Finally, we defined insulin receptor as a novel negative regulator of metabolically stress-induced JNK activation.
Withdrawal from Extended, Intermittent Access to A Highly Palatable Diet Impairs Hippocampal Memory Function and Neurogenesis: Effects of Memantine
Authors: Ferragud Antonio , Velázquez-Sánchez Clara , Abdullatif Ali Al , Sabino Valentina , Cottone Pietro
Published: May 2020

Background: Compulsive eating can be promoted by intermittent access to palatable food and is often accompanied by cognitive deficits and reduction in hippocampal plasticity. Here, we investigated the effects of intermittent access to palatable food on hippocampal function and neurogenesis. Methods: Male Wistar rats were either fed chow for 7 days/week (Chow/Chow group), or fed chow intermittently for 5 days/week followed by a palatable diet for 2 days/week (Chow/Palatable group). Hippocampal function and neurogenesis were assessed either during withdrawal or following renewed access to palatable food. Furthermore, the ability of the uncompetitive N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist memantine to prevent the diet-induced memory deficits and block the maladaptive feeding was tested. Results: Palatable food withdrawn Chow/Palatable rats showed both a weakened ability for contextual spatial processing and a bias in their preference for a “novel cue” over a “novel place,” compared to controls. They also showed reduced expression of immature neurons in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus as well as a withdrawal-dependent decrease of proliferating cells. Memantine treatment was able both to reverse the memory deficits and to reduce the excessive intake of palatable diet and the withdrawal-induced hypophagia in food cycling rats. Conclusions: In summary, our results provide evidence that withdrawal from highly palatable food produces NMDAR-dependent deficits in hippocampal function and a reduction in hippocampal neurogenesis.
Food Addiction in a Group of Italian Adolescents Diagnosed for Eating Disorder
Authors: Cinelli Giulia , Criscuolo Michela , Bifone Costanza , Chianello Ilenia , Castiglioni Maria Chiara , De Lorenzo Antonino , Di Renzo Laura , Tozzi Alberto Eugenio , Vicari Stefano , Zanna Valeria
Published: May 2020

Research in patients with Eating Disorders (EDs) showed high rates of Food Addiction (FA) even in restrictive subtypes. The majority of studies were conducted on adult population. The present work aimed to describe and compared FA in adolescents diagnosed for different EDs and to evaluate its association with patients’ psychopathology. Patients aged 12–18 y were included in the analysis. FA was assessed using the Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0. The rate of FA was of 49.4% in the whole sample (n = 87, F = 90.8%) and of 53.7% in patients diagnosed with restrictive anorexia nervosa. No difference in FA frequency was detected between EDs. A worse psychopathological picture was found in patients diagnosed with FA. Higher age, higher score to the Eating Attitudes Test–26 and to the Eating Disorder Inventory-3′s Interoceptive Deficits scale have been detected as the major predictors of FA in our sample. FA may be considered a transnosographic construct, not linked to the subtype of ED but to patients’ personal characteristics and, in particular, to age and interoceptive deficits. A worse psychopathology might be considered a risk factor for the presence of FA in EDs.
Vertebral Bone Marrow Fat Is independently Associated to VAT but Not to SAT: KORA FF4—Whole-Body MR Imaging in a Population-Based Cohort
Authors: Hasic Dunja , Lorbeer Roberto , Bertheau Robert C. , Machann Jürgen , Rospleszcz Susanne , Nattenmüller Johanna , Rathmann Wolfgang , Peters Annette , Bamberg Fabian , Schlett Christopher L.
Published: May 2020

The objective of the current study was to assess the relationship of bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) content to abdominal fat depots, including visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), as well as cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) beyond physical activity in a population-based cohort study undergoing whole-body magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Subjects of the Cooperative Health Research in the Augsburg Region (KORA) FF4 study without known cardiovascular disease underwent fat fraction quantification in vertebrae (BMATL1/L2) via a 2-point T1-weighted volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (VIBE) Dixon sequence. The same MR sequence was applied to quantify VAT and SAT volume. Subjects’ characteristics, including physical activity, were determined through standardized exams and self-assessment questionnaires. Univariate and multivariate linear regression were applied. In the cohort of 378 subjects (56 ± 9.1years; 42.1% female), BMATL1/L2 was 54.3 ± 10.1%, VAT was 4.54 ± 2.71 L, and SAT was 8.10 ± 3.68 L. VAT differed significantly across BMATL1/L2 tertiles (3.60 ± 2.76 vs. 4.92 ± 2.66 vs. 5.11 ± 2.48; p < 0.001), there was no significant differences for SAT (p = 0.39). In the fully adjusted model, VAT remained positively associated with BMATL1/L2 (β = 0.53, p = 0.03). Furthermore, BMATL1/L2 was associated with age (β = 5.40 per 10-years, p < 0.001), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c; β = 1.55 per 1%, p = 0.04), lipids (β = 0.20 per 10 mg/dL triglycerides; β = 0.40 per 10 mg/dL low-density lipoprotein (LDL); β =−3.21 lipid-lowering medication; all p < 0.05), and less physical activity (β = 3.7 “no or nearly no exercise” as compared to “≥2 h per week, regularly”, p = 0.003); gender was not significantly different (p = 0.57). In the population-based cohort, VAT but not SAT were associated with higher BMATL1/L2 independently of physical activity and other cardiovascular risk factors. Further, BMATL1/L2 increased with older age, less physical activity, higher HbA1c, and increased lipids but decreased with lipid-lowering medication.
Shedding Light on the Effects of Calorie Restriction and Its Mimetics on Skin Biology
Authors: Choi Yeon Ja
Published: May 2020

During the aging process of an organism, the skin gradually loses its structural and functional characteristics. The skin becomes more fragile and vulnerable to damage, which may contribute to age-related diseases and even death. Skin aging is aggravated by the fact that the skin is in direct contact with extrinsic factors, such as ultraviolet irradiation. While calorie restriction (CR) is the most effective intervention to extend the lifespan of organisms and prevent age-related disorders, its effects on cutaneous aging and disorders are poorly understood. This review discusses the effects of CR and its alternative dietary intake on skin biology, with a focus on skin aging. CR structurally and functionally affects most of the skin and has been reported to rescue both age-related and photo-induced changes. The anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, stem cell maintenance, and metabolic activities of CR contribute to its beneficial effects on the skin. To the best of the author’s knowledge, the effects of fasting or a specific nutrient-restricted diet on skin aging have not been evaluated; these strategies offer benefits in wound healing and inflammatory skin diseases. In addition, well-known CR mimetics, including resveratrol, metformin, rapamycin, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists, show CR-like prevention against skin aging. An overview of the role of CR in skin biology will provide valuable insights that would eventually lead to improvements in skin health.
Lifestyle and Progression to Type 2 Diabetes in a Cohort of Workers with Prediabetes
Authors: Bennasar-Veny Miquel , Fresneda Sergio , López-González Arturo , Busquets-Cortés Carla , Aguiló Antoni , Yañez Aina M.
Published: May 2020

Background: People with prediabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Few studies have evaluated the influence of lifestyle factors on the risk of progression to diabetes and reversion to normoglycemia. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of T2D in a large cohort of workers with prediabetes, and to evaluate the influence of sociodemographic, clinical, metabolic, and lifestyle factors that affect the persistence of prediabetes and the progression to T2D. Methods: A cohort study of 27,844 adult workers (aged 20 to 65 years) from Spain who had prediabetes based on an occupational medical examination from 2012 to 2013. Prediabetes was defined as fasting plasma glucose (FPG) between 100 and 125 mg/dL. At the baseline evaluation, sociodemographic, anthropometric, metabolic, and lifestyle data were collected. At the 5-year follow-up, incident T2D was defined as an FPG of at least 126 mg/dL or initiation of an antidiabetic medication. Results: Among 235,995 initially screened workers, the prevalence of T2D was 14.19% (95% confidence interval (CI) 14.05 to 14.33) and the prevalence of prediabetes was 11.85% (95% CI 11.71 to 11.99). Follow-up data were available for 23,293 individuals with prediabetes. Among them, 36.08% (95% CI 35.46 to 36.70) returned to normoglycemia, 40.92% (95% CI 40.29 to 41.55) had persistent prediabetes, and 23.00% (95% CI 22.46 to 23.54) progressed to T2D. The risk for persistence of prediabetes and for progression to T2D increased with age, body mass index (BMI), triglyceride level, and less than 150 min/week of physical activity. An HbA1c level of 6% or greater was the strongest individual predictor of progression to T2D. Conclusions: Physical activity, diet, smoking, and BMI are modifiable factors that are associated with the persistence of prediabetes and the progression to T2D. The workplace is a feasible setting for the early detection of prediabetes and the promotion of lifestyles that can prevent progression to T2D.
Cetaceans as Exemplars of Evolution and Evolutionary Ecology: A Glossary
Authors: Werth Alexander J.
Published: May 2020

Extant cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises) and their extinct ancestors offer some of the strongest and best-known examples of macroevolutionary transition as well as microevolutionary adaptation. Unlike most reviews of cetacean evolution, which are intended to chronicle the timeline of cetacean ancestry, document the current knowledge of cetacean adaptations, or simply validate the brute fact of evolution, this review is instead intended to demonstrate how cetaceans fittingly illustrate hundreds of specific, detailed terms and concepts within evolutionary biology and evolutionary ecology. This review, arrayed in alphabetical glossary format, is not meant to offer an exhaustive listing of case studies or scholarly sources, but aims to show the breadth and depth of cetacean research studies supporting and investigating numerous evolutionary themes.
An Optimized Most Probable Number (MPN) Method to Assess the Number of Thermophilic Free-Living Amoebae (FLA) in Water Samples
Authors: Moussa Mirna , Marcelino Isabel , Richard Vincent , Guerlotté Jérôme , Talarmin Antoine
Published: May 2020

Detection and quantification of pathogenic free-living amoebae (FLA) in water samples is critical for assessing water quality and for disease management issues. The most probable number (MPN) is commonly used to account for FLA in water. Nevertheless, this requires a high number of water replicates and working volumes, and a consequent number of non-nutrient agar (NNA)-plates seeded with Escherichia coli. Herein, we aimed at optimizing this difficult method, taking also into account key factors such as (i) the counting method, (ii) the delay between sample collection and sample processing, and (iii) the temperature during water sample transportation. To simplify the MPN method, we filtrated 1 × 1000 and 1 × 100 mL water samples, and cellulose acetate filters were cut in 10 parts and inverted on NNA-plates overlaid with E. coli. The comparison between the classical and our optimized MPN method showed that the final counts were similar, therefore validating the use of the optimized method. Our results also showed that for thermophilic FLA (such as Naegleria fowleri), water samples can be kept at around +30°C and processed within 24 h. This improved MPN method is now routinely used in our laboratory to control Naegleria sp. in the water samples in Guadeloupe.
Therapeutic Use of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes: From Basic Science to Clinics
Authors: Harrell Carl Randall , Jovicic Nemanja , Djonov Valentin , Volarevic Vladislav
Published: May 2020

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are, due to their immunosuppressive and regenerative properties, used as new therapeutic agents in cell-based therapy of inflammatory and degenerative diseases. A large number of experimental and clinical studies revealed that most of MSC-mediated beneficial effects were attributed to the effects of MSC-sourced exosomes (MSC-Exos). MSC-Exos are nano-sized extracellular vesicles that contain MSC-derived bioactive molecules (messenger RNA (mRNA), microRNAs (miRNAs)), enzymes, cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors) that modulate phenotype, function and homing of immune cells, and regulate survival and proliferation of parenchymal cells. In this review article, we emphasized current knowledge about molecular and cellular mechanisms that were responsible for MSC-Exos-based beneficial effects in experimental models and clinical trials. Additionally, we elaborated on the challenges of conventional MSC-Exos administration and proposed the use of new bioengineering and cellular modification techniques which could enhance therapeutic effects of MSC-Exos in alleviation of inflammatory and degenerative diseases.
Identification and Molecular Characterization of Geranyl Diphosphate Synthase (GPPS) Genes in Wintersweet Flower
Authors: Kamran Hafiz Muhammad , Hussain Syed Bilal , Junzhong Shang , Xiang Lin , Chen Long-Qing
Published: May 2020

Geranyl diphosphate synthase (GPPS) is a plastid localized enzyme that catalyzes the biosynthesis of Geranyl diphosphate (GPP), which is a universal precursor of monoterpenes. Wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox L.), a famous deciduous flowering shrub with a strong floral scent character, could have GPPS-like homologs that are involved in monoterpenes biosynthesis, but it remains unclear. In the present study, five full-length GPPS and geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthases (GGPPS) genes were identified in the wintersweet transcriptome database. The isolated cDNAs showed high protein sequence similarity with the other plants GPPS and GGPPS. The phylogenetic analysis further classified these cDNAs into four distinct clades, representing heterodimeric GPPS small subunits (SSU1 and SSU2), homodimeric GPPS, and GGPPS. Analysis of temporal expression revealed that all genes have the highest transcript level at the full-open flower stage. From tissue-specific expression analysis, CpGPPS.SSU1 and CpGGPPS1 were predominantly expressed in petal and flower, whereas CpGPPS.SSU2, GPPS, and GGPPS2 showed a constitutive expression. Additionally, the subcellular localization assay identified the chloroplast localization of SSUs and GGPPSs proteins, and the yeast two-hybrid assay showed that both CpGPPS.SSU1 and CpGPPS.SSU2 can interact with the GGPPS proteins. Taken together, these preliminary results suggest that the heterodimeric GPPS can regulate floral scent biosynthesis in wintersweet flower.
Transparent Ultraviolet (UV)-Shielding Films Made from Waste Hemp Hurd and Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)
Authors: Zhang Yi , Remadevi Rechana , Hinestroza Juan P. , Wang Xungai , Naebe Maryam
Published: May 2020

This work proposes a new approach to fabricate highly transparent and flexible composite films that exhibit enhanced UV-shielding properties. Lignin has innate UV-shielding properties. However, when purified lignin, which is conventionally extracted through chemical treatment, is mixed with polymeric materials, its presence negatively influences the transparency of the resulting composite. High transparency and UV-shielding are desirable properties for many applications. In this study, composites were made by mixing lignocellulose particles and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), where lignocellulose particles were obtained from ball-milled waste hemp hurd without chemical treatments. The UV-shielding properties of the resulting composite film, as a function of hemp/PVA weight ratios, were investigated. The intermolecular interactions between the hemp particles and the PVA were characterized using infrared spectroscopy with the presence of –C=O group at 1655 cm−1, providing evidence that the chemical structure of lignin was preserved. The fabricated hemp/PVA films exhibit stronger UV-shielding, in the UVA-I range (340–400 nm) than TiO2/PVA films. The composite films also showed comparable water vapor permeability (WVP) with commercial packaging plastic film made of HDPE (high-density polyethylene). The optimization experiments were reported, with aim at understanding the balance between the UV-shielding and mechanical properties of the hemp/PVA films. The findings of this work can be applicable to the packaging, food and cosmetic industries where UV shielding is of utmost importance, hence adding value to hemp hurd waste.
Development and Performance of Bioactive Compounds-Loaded Cellulose/Collagen/Polyurethane Materials
Authors: Spiridon Iuliana , Anghel Narcis , Dinu Maria Valentina , Vlad Stelian , Bele Adrian , Ciubotaru Bianca Iulia , Verestiuc Liliana , Pamfil Daniela
Published: May 2020

Here we present a new biomaterial based on cellulose, collagen and polyurethane, obtained by dissolving in butyl imidazole chloride. This material served as a matrix for the incorporation of tannin and lipoic acid, as well as bioactive substances with antioxidant properties. The introduction of these bioactive principles into the base matrix led to an increase of the compressive strength in the range 105–139 kPa. An increase of 29.85% of the mucoadhesiveness of the film containing tannin, as compared to the reference, prolongs the bioavailability of the active substance; a fact also demonstrated by the controlled release studies. The presence of bioactive principles, as well as tannins and lipoic acid, gives biomaterials an antioxidant capacity on average 40%–50% higher compared to the base matrix. The results of the tests of the mechanical resistance, mucoadhesiveness, bioadhesiveness, water absorption and antioxidant capacity of active principles recommend these biomaterials for the manufacture of cosmetic masks or patches.
High-Molecular-Weight PLA-b-PEO-b-PLA Triblock Copolymer Templated Large Mesoporous Carbons for Supercapacitors and CO2 Capture
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Gamal , Hung Wei-Shih , EL-Mahdy Ahmed F. M. , Ahmed Mahmoud M. M. , Dai Lizong , Chen Tao , Kuo Shiao-Wei
Published: May 2020

High-molecular-weight PLA440-b-PEO454-b-PLA440 (LEL) triblock copolymer was synthesized through simple ring-opening polymerization (ROP) by using the commercial homopolymer HO-PEO454-OH as the macro-initiator. The material acted as a single template to prepare the large mesoporous carbons by using resol-type phenolic resin as a carbon source. Self-assembled structures of phenolic/LEL blends mediated by hydrogen bonding interaction were determined by FTIR and SAXS analyses. Through thermal curing and carbonization procedures, large mesoporous carbons (>50 nm) with a cylindrical structure and high surface area (>600 m2/g) were obtained because the OH units of phenolics prefer to interact with PEO block rather than PLA block, as determined by FTIR spectroscopy. Furthermore, higher CO2 capture and good energy storage performance were observed for this large mesoporous carbon, confirming that the proposed approach provides an easy method for the preparation of large mesoporous materials.
A Novel Synthesis of Poly(Ester-Alt-Selenide)s by Ring-Opening Copolymerization of γ-Selenobutyrolactone and Epoxy Monomer
Authors: Wang Ya’nan , Lin Xiaofang , Zhang Zhengbiao , Zhu Jian , Pan Xiangqiang , Zhu Xiulin
Published: May 2020

Ring-opening copolymerization (ROCOP) is an effective means to prepare functionalized polyester. In this work, a type of selenide-containing polyesters with controllable structure, molecular weight, and molecular weight distribution was successfully prepared by ROCOP of γ-selenobutyrolactone and epoxy compounds. The influence of the catalyst, solvent, and reaction temperature on the reaction efficiency was examined. Then, kinetic study was investigated under an optimized condition. The structure of the copolymers was carefully characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and 77Se NMR, Matrix-assisted laser-desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS), and size exclusion chromatography (SEC). The resulting polymers showed a linear structure with a sequence regulated backbone repeating unit of ester-selenide. On this basis, some typical epoxides were investigated to verify the scope of the polymerization system. Due to the “living”/controlled characteristics of this ROCOP, multiblock, amphiphilic, and stereotactic copolymers could be prepared with a pre-designed structure. As expected, the selenide-containing amphiphilic copolymer could self-assemble to micelles and showed an oxidative response.