bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dendrobium officinale Polysaccharides Inhibit 1-Methyl-2-Nitro-1-Nitrosoguanidine Induced Precancerous Lesions of Gastric Cancer in Rats through Regulating Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway and Altering Serum Endogenous Metabolites
Authors: Zhao Yi , Li Bingtao , Wang Gaoyu , Ge Shuchao , Lan Ximing , Xu Guoliang , Liu Hongning
Published: July 2019

Dendrobium officinale is a herb in traditional Chinese medicine where D. officinale polysaccharides (DOP) are the main active ingredient. This study aimed at evaluating DOP efficiency at inhibiting 1-Methyl-2-nitro-1-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) induced precancerous lesions of gastric cancer (PLGC) in rats through the Wnt/b-catenin pathway and analyzing the variations of serum endogenous metabolites. PLGC was established in male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats by administering 150 μg/mL MNNG in drinking water for 7 months and giving 0.1 mL of 10% NaCl once weekly during the initial 20 weeks. Treatment with DOP inhibited the progress of PLGC through decreasing the expression of β-catenin by immunohistochemical analysis. The futher study indicated DOP downregulated gene expression of Wnt2β, Gsk3β, PCNA, CyclinD1, and β-catenin, as well as protein expression of Wnt2β, PCNA, and β-catenin. On the other hand, there were nine endogenous metabolites identified after the DOP treatment. Among these, the most significant one is betaine because of its strong antioxidant activity, leading to an anti-tumor effect. DOP can inhibit MNNG-induced PLGC models via regulating Wnt/β-catenin pathway and by changing endogenous metabolites.
Photothermal-Induced Antibacterial Activity of Gold Nanorods Loaded into Polymeric Hydrogel against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm
Authors: Al-Bakri Amal G. , Mahmoud Nouf N.
Published: July 2019

In this study, the photothermal-induced bactericidal activity of phospholipid-decorated gold nanorods (DSPE-AuNR) suspension against Pseudomonas aeruginosa planktonic and biofilm cultures was investigated. We found that the treatment of planktonic culture of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with DSPE-AuNR suspension (0.25–0.03 nM) followed by a continuous laser beam exposure resulted in ~6 log cycle reduction of the bacterial viable count in comparison to the control. The percentage reduction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm viable count was ~2.5–6.0 log cycle upon laser excitation with different concentrations of DSPE-AuNR as compared to the control. The photothermal ablation activity of DSPE-AuNR (0.125 nM) loaded into poloxamer 407 hydrogel against Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm resulted in ~4.5–5 log cycle reduction in the biofilm viable count compared to the control. Moreover, transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of the photothermally-treated bacteria revealed a significant change in the bacterial shape and lysis of the bacterial cell membrane in comparison to the untreated bacteria. Furthermore, the results revealed that continuous and pulse laser beam modes effected a comparable photothermal-induced bactericidal activity. Therefore, it can be concluded that phospholipid-coated gold nanorods present a promising nanoplatform to eradicate Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm responsible for common skin diseases.
Separation and Enrichment of Three Coumarins from Angelicae Pubescentis Radix by Macroporous Resin with Preparative HPLC and Evaluation of Their Anti-Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Yang Yuqiao , Zhu Ruichao , Li Jin , Yang Xuejing , He Jun , Wang Hui , Chang Yanxu
Published: July 2019

In order to enrich and separate three coumarins (columbianetin acetate, osthole and columbianadin) from Angelicae Pubescentis Radix (APR), an efficient method was established by combining macroporous resins (MARs) with preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (PHPLC). Five different macroporous resins (D101, AB-8, DA-201, HP-20 and GDX-201) were used to assess the adsorption and desorption characteristics of three coumarins. The result demonstrated that HP-20 resin possessed the best adsorption and desorption capacities for these three coumarins. Moreover, the adsorption dynamics profiles of three coumarins were well fitted to the pseudo second order equation (R2 > 0.99) for the HP-20 resin. The adsorption process was described by the three isotherms models including Langmuir (R2 > 0.98, 0.046 ≤ RL ≤ 0.103), Freundlich (R2 > 0.99, 0.2748 ≤ 1/n ≤ 0.3103) and Dubinin Radushkevich (R2 > 0.97). The contents of columbianetin acetate, osthole and columbianadin in the product were increased 10.69-fold, 19.98-fold and 19.68-fold after enrichment, respectively. Three coumarins were further purified by PHPLC and the purities of them reached above 98%. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory effects of these three coumarins were assessed by Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells. It was found that the production of NO and MCP-1 was obviously inhibited by three coumarins. Columbianetin acetate, osthole and columbianadin could be used as potentially natural anti-inflammatory ingredients in pharmaceutical products. It was concluded that the new method combining MARs with PHPLC was efficient and economical for enlarging scale separation and enrichment of columbianetin acetate, osthole and columbianadin with anti-inflammatory effect from the APR extract.
Electronic Structure and Lithium Diffusion in LiAl2(OH)6Cl Studied by First Principle Calculations
Authors: Zhang Yueping , Cheng Xiyue , Wu Chen , Köhler Jürgen , Deng Shuiquan
Published: July 2019

First-principles calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT) were carried out to study the atomic structure and electronic structure of LiAl2(OH)6Cl, the only material in the layered double hydroxide family in which delithiation was found to occur. Ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations were used to explore the evolution of the structure of LiAl2(OH)6Cl during a thermally induced delithiation process. The simulations show that this process occurs due to the drastic dynamics of Li+ at temperatures higher than ~450 K, in which the [Al2(OH)6] host layers remain stable up to 1100 K. The calculated large value of the Li+ diffusion coefficient D, ~ 3.13 × 10 − 5 c m 2 / s , at 500 K and the high stability of the [Al2(OH)6] framework suggest a potential technical application of the partially-delithiated Li1-xAl2(OH)6Cl1-x (0 < x < 1) as a superionic conductor at high temperatures.
ON/OFF Photostimulation of Isatin Bipyridyl Hydrazones: Photochemical and Spectral Study
Authors: Šandrik Róbert , Tisovský Pavol , Csicsai Klaudia , Donovalová Jana , Gáplovský Martin , Sokolík Róbert , Filo Juraj , Gáplovský Anton
Published: July 2019

Four novel isatin hydrazones containing bipyridyl fragments were synthesized as potential ON/OFF switches. Hydrazone Z-isomers exhibit high thermal stability. The characteristic photochemical reaction for all studied hydrazones is the Z–E isomerization in CHCl3. After irradiation of hydrazones 1 and 2 in dimethylformamide (DMF), the photoreaction products are tautomers. When using light with the appropriate wavelength, the photo-tautomerization reaction is reversible. In these conditions, studied hydrazones have ON/OFF switch properties. In the case of hydrazones 1 and 2, by alternating heat and light stimulation it is possible to control the isomerization process reversibly. In the presence of fluoride ions, NH hydrogen from the studied hydrazones is cleaved, and the corresponding anions are formed. The resulting anions of Z-isomers are changed to the corresponding E-isomer at room temperature.
Porphyrin as Diagnostic and Therapeutic Agent
Authors: Tsolekile Ncediwe , Nelana Simphiwe , Oluwafemi Oluwatobi Samuel
Published: July 2019

The synthesis and application of porphyrins has seen a huge shift towards research in porphyrin bio-molecular based systems in the past decade. The preferential localization of porphyrins in tumors, as well as their ability to generate reactive singlet oxygen and low dark toxicities has resulted in their use in therapeutic applications such as photodynamic therapy. However, their inherent lack of bio-distribution due to water insolubility has shifted research into porphyrin-nanomaterial conjugated systems to address this challenge. This has broadened their bio-applications, viz. bio-sensors, fluorescence tracking, in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET)/CT imaging to photo-immuno-therapy just to highlight a few. This paper reviews the unique theranostic role of porphyrins in disease diagnosis and therapy. The review highlights porphyrin conjugated systems and their applications. The review ends by bringing current challenges and future perspectives of porphyrin based conjugated systems and their respective applications into light.
Venoms of Iranian Scorpions (Arachnida, Scorpiones) and Their Potential for Drug Discovery
Authors: Kazemi Seyed Mahdi , Sabatier Jean-Marc
Published: July 2019

Scorpions, a characteristic group of arthropods, are among the earliest diverging arachnids, dating back almost 440 million years. One of the many interesting aspects of scorpions is that they have venom arsenals for capturing prey and defending against predators, which may play a critical role in their evolutionary success. Unfortunately, however, scorpion envenomation represents a serious health problem in several countries, including Iran. Iran is acknowledged as an area with a high richness of scorpion species and families. The diversity of the scorpion fauna in Iran is the subject of this review, in which we report a total of 78 species and subspecies in 19 genera and four families. We also list some of the toxins or genes studied from five species, including Androctonus crassicauda, Hottentotta zagrosensis, Mesobuthus phillipsi, Odontobuthus doriae, and Hemiscorpius lepturus, in the Buthidae and Hemiscorpiidae families. Lastly, we review the diverse functions of typical toxins from the Iranian scorpion species, including their medical applications.
Screening and Evaluation of Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors from Gnetum parvifolium in China
Authors: Tang Xiaosheng , Tang Ping , Ma Lei , Liu Liangliang
Published: July 2019

As a traditional natural medicine for treating many kinds of diseases, Gnetum parvifolium showed apparent inhibition on xanthine oxidase (XO). In this study, ultrafiltration combined with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is used for the screening of XO inhibitors from Gnetum parvifolium. Their antioxidation, XO inhibition, and enzymic kinetic parameters are also determined. Finally, piceatannol (1), rhaponiticin (2), resveratrol (3), and isorhapontigenin (4) are screened out and identified as XO inhibitors from the extract of Gnetum parvifolium. Four inhibitors show better inhibition than allopurinol and good radical scavenging abilities. However, the antioxidant activities are weaker than ascorbic acid. The kinetic parameters illustrate the inhibition mode of XO by piceatannol is competitive type, while the inhibition modes for rhaponiticin, resveratrol and isorhapontigenin are uncompetitive types. In order to evaluate the difference among samples obtained in China, the amounts of four inhibitors and related activities in 20 samples are assessed and analyzed by partial least squares analysis. The results indicate piceatannol contribute the highest coefficients in three kinds of activities. Based on these findings, more comprehensive research on pharmaceutical and biochemical activities of these four XO inhibitors could be conducted in future.
Insight into the Synthesis and Characterization of Organophosphorus-Based Bridged Triazine Compounds
Authors: Salmeia Khalifah A. , Neels Antonia , Parida Dambarudhar , Lehner Sandro , Rentsch Daniel , Gaan Sabyasachi
Published: July 2019

In this article, we report the synthesis of 2,4,6-substituted s-triazine-based organophosphorus compounds via a two-step process, which enables their production in high yields, and with a high purity as solids. In the first step, a Michaelis–Arbuzov rearrangement of cyanuric chloride with triethyl phosphite afforded 2,4,6-trisdiethoxyphosphinyl-1,3,5-triazine (HEPT). Subsequently, the nucleophilic substitution reaction on the triazine carbon was achieved, owing to the electron-withdrawing ability of the phosphonate groups. This characteristic of HEPT facilitated its derivatization with bi-functional amines, producing novel P–C containing bridged triazine organophosphorus compounds. The molecular structures of all of the compounds were confirmed by NMR spectroscopy, CHN elemental analysis, and single crystal X-ray analysis. In the thermogravimetric analysis in an N2 environment, >33% char formation was observed for the bridged compounds. The chemical composition analysis of the char obtained under the oxidative thermal decomposition of the bridged compounds confirmed the presence of phosphorus- and nitrogen-enriched species, which indicate their function in the condensed phase. Comparatively, the detection of HPO and H–C≡P in the gas phase during the pyrolysis of the bridged compounds can act as a source for PO•, which is known for its gas phase flame inhibition reactions. The synergy of significant char formation and the generation of intermediates leading to PO• during pyrolysis makes these molecules promising flame-retardant additives.
New and Potent Quinuclidine-Based Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Radman Kastelic Andreja , Odžak Renata , Pezdirc Iskra , Sović Karlo , Hrenar Tomica , Čipak Gašparović Ana , Skočibušić Mirjana , Primožič Ines
Published: July 2019

Developing new antibiotics is currently very important since antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest problems of global health today. In the search for a new class of potential antimicrobial agents, ten new compounds were designed and synthesized based on the quinuclidinium heterocyclic core and the oxime functional group. The antimicrobial activity was assessed against a panel of representative gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. All compounds demonstrated potent activity against the tested microorganisms, with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 0.25 to 256.00 μg/mL. Among the tested compounds, two quaternary compounds, para-N-chlorobenzyl and meta-N-bromobenzyl quinuclidinium oximes, displayed the most potent and broad-spectrum activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains (MIC values from 0.25 to 4.00 μg/mL), with the lowest value for the important multidrug resistant gram-negative pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In the case of Klebsiella pneumoniae, activity of those compounds are 256-fold and 16-fold better than gentamicin, respectively. MTT assays showed that compounds are nontoxic for human cell lines. Multi-way analysis was used to separately reduce dimensionality of quantum chemical data and biological activity data to obtain a regression model and the required parameters for the enhancement of biological activity.
The Role of Orientation of Surface Bound Dihydropyrrol-2-ones (DHP) on Biological Activity
Authors: Taunk Aditi , Chen Renxun , Iskander George , Ho Kitty K. K. , Almohaywi Basmah , Black David StClair , Willcox Mark D. P. , Kumar Naresh
Published: July 2019

Quorum sensing (QS) signaling system is important for bacterial growth, adhesion, and biofilm formation resulting in numerous infectious diseases. Dihydropyrrol-2-ones (DHPs) represent a novel class of antimicrobial agents that inhibit QS, and are less prone to develop bacterial resistance due to their non-growth inhibition mechanism of action which does not cause survival pressure on bacteria. DHPs can prevent bacterial colonization and quorum sensing when covalently bound to substrates. In this study, the role of orientation of DHP compounds was investigated after covalent attachment by 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide (EDC)/N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) coupling reaction to amine-functionalized glass surfaces via various positions of the DHP scaffold. The functionalized glass surfaces were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and contact angle measurements and tested for their in vitro biological activity against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. DHPs attached via the N-1 position resulted in the highest antibacterial activities against S. aureus, while no difference was observed for DHPs attached either via the N-1 position or the C-4 phenyl ring against P. aeruginosa.
Aerogel Perfusion-Prepared h-BN/CNF Composite Film with Multiple Thermally Conductive Pathways and High Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Wang Xiu , Yu Zhihuai , Jiao Liang , Bian Huiyang , Yang Weisheng , Wu Weibing , Xiao Huining , Dai Hongqi
Published: July 2019

Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN)-based heat-spreading materials have drawn considerable attention in electronic diaphragm and packaging fields because of their high thermal conductivity and desired electrical insulation properties. However, the traditional approach to fabricate thermally conductive composites usually suffers from low thermal conductivity, and cannot meet the requirement of thermal management. In this work, novel h-BN/cellulose-nano fiber (CNF) composite films with excellent thermal conductivity in through plane and electrical insulation properties are fabricated via an innovative process, i.e., the perfusion of h-BN into porous three dimensional (3D) CNF aerogel skeleton to form the h-BN thermally conductive pathways by filling the CNF aerogel voids. When at an h-BN loading of 9.51 vol %, the thermal conductivity of h-BN/CNF aerogel perfusion composite film is 1.488 W·m−1·K−1 at through plane, an increase by 260.3%. The volume resistivity is 3.83 × 1014 Ω·cm, superior to that of synthetic polymer materials (about 109~1013 Ω·cm). Therefore, the resulting h-BN/CNF film is very promising to replace the traditional synthetic polymer materials for a broad spectrum of applications, including the field of electronics.
Codelivery of Genistein and miRNA-29b to A549 Cells Using Aptamer-Hybrid Nanoparticle Bioconjugates
Authors: Sacko Koita , Thangavel Karthik , Shoyele Sunday A.
Published: July 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the anti-cancer effect of a combination therapy of miRNA-29b and genistein loaded in mucin-1 (MUC 1)-aptamer functionalized hybrid nanoparticles in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) A549 cell line. Genistein-miRNA-29b-loaded hybrid nanoparticles (GMLHN) was prepared and characterized. Particle size and zeta potential were measured using photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS). Encapsulation efficiency and loading efficiency were determined using HPLC. Preferential internalization of MUC 1-aptamer functionalized GMLHN by A549 cells was evaluated and compared to normal MRC-5 cells. The ability of GMLHN to downregulate targeted oncoproteins Phosphorylated protein kinase, strain AK, Thymoma (Phosphorylated protein kinase B) (pAKT), Phosphorylated phosphoinositide 3-kinase (p-PI3K), DNA (cytosine-5-)-methyltransferase 3 beta (DNMT3B) and Myeloid Cell Leukemia Sequence 1 (MCL 1) was evaluated using western blot, while antiproliferative effect and ability to initiate apoptosis was also assessed in A549 cells. MUC 1-aptamer functionalized GMLHN nanoparticles were prepared. These nanoparticles were preferentially internalized by A549 cells but less so, in MRC-5 cells. pAKT, p-PI3K, DNMT3B and MCL 1 were efficiently downregulated by these nanoparticles without affecting the levels of AKT and PI3K in A549 cells. GMLHN demonstrated a superior antiproliferative effect compared to individual genistein and miRNA-29b-loaded nanoparticles. Results generated were able to demonstrate that genistein-miRNA-29b-loaded hybrid nanoparticles (GMLHN) could be a potential treatment modality for NSCLC because of the ability of the payloads to attack multiple targets.
The Novel Z-Scheme Ternary-Component Ag/AgI/α-MoO3 Catalyst with Excellent Visible-Light Photocatalytic Oxidative Desulfurization Performance for Model Fuel
Authors: Zhen Yanzhong , Wang Jie , Fu Feng , Fu Wenhao , Liang Yucang
Published: July 2019

The novel ternary-component Ag/AgI/α-MoO3 (AAM) photocatalyst was successfully fabricated by a facile hydrothermal method combined with a charge-induced physical adsorption and photo-reduced deposition technique. X-ray diffraction, scanning/transmission electron microscope, X-ray photoelectron, UV-vis diffuse reflectance, photoluminescence and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were employed to characterize the composition, morphology, light-harvesting properties and charge transfer character of the as-synthesized catalysts. The ternary-component AAM heterojunctions exhibited an excellent visible-light photocatalytic oxidative desulfurization activity, in which the AAM-35 (35 represents weight percent of AgI in AAM sample) possessed the highest photocatalytic activity of the conversion of 97.5% in 2 h. On the basis of band structure analysis, radical trapping experiments and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra results, two different catalytic mechanisms were suggested to elucidate how the photogenerated electron-hole pairs can be effectively separated for the enhancement of photocatalytic performance for dual composites AM-35 and ternary composites AAM-35 during the photocatalytic oxidative desulfurization (PODS) of thiophene. This investigation demonstrates that Z-scheme Ag/AgI/α-MoO3 will be a promising candidate material for refractory sulfur aromatic pollutant’s removal in fossil fuel.
Activated Carbon-Decorated Spherical Silicon Nanocrystal Composites Synchronously-Derived from Rice Husks for Anodic Source of Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Sekar Sankar , Aqueel Ahmed Abu Talha , Inamdar Akbar I. , Lee Youngmin , Im Hyunsik , Kim Deuk Young , Lee Sejoon
Published: July 2019

The nanocomposites of activated-carbon-decorated silicon nanocrystals (ACAC) were synchronously derived in a single step from biomass rice husks, through the simple route of the calcination method together with the magnesiothermic reduction process. The final product, ACAC, exhibited an aggregated structure of activated-carbon-encapsulated nanocrystalline silicon spheres, and reveals a high specific surface area (498.5 m2/g). Owing to the mutualization of advantages from both silicon nanocrystals (i.e., low discharge potential and high specific capacity) and activated carbon (i.e., high porosity and good electrical conductivity), the ACAC nanocomposites are able to play a substantial role as an anodic source material for the lithium-ion battery (LIB). Namely, a high coulombic efficiency (97.5%), a high discharge capacity (716 mAh/g), and a high reversible specific capacity (429 mAh/g after 100 cycles) were accomplished when using ACAC as an LIB anode. The results advocate that the simultaneous synthesis of biomass-derived ACAC is beneficial for green energy-storage device applications.
Electrochemistry Studies of Hydrothermally Grown ZnO on 3D-Printed Graphene
Authors: Vernardou Dimitra , Kenanakis George
Published: July 2019

A three-dimensional (3D) printer was utilised for the three-dimensional production of graphene-based pyramids and an efficient hydrothermal procedure for ZnO growth. In particular, the 3D-printed graphene pyramids were forwarded in Pyrex glass bottles with autoclavable screw caps filled with 50 mL of an aqueous solution of zinc nitrate hexahydrate and hexamethylenetetramine for 1 h at 95 °C; sufficient enough time to deposit well-dispersed nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction patterns were in accordance with a Raman analysis and presented the characteristic peaks of graphite along with those of wurtzite ZnO. Different positions on the sample were tested, confirming the uniform dispersion of ZnO on graphene pyramids. From the electrochemical studies, it was found that the charging and discharging processes are affected by the presence of ZnO, indicating one well-defined plateau for each process compared to the previously reported bare graphene pyramids. In total, the material shows a value of 325 mAh g−1, a capacitance retention factor of 92% after 5000 scans, and a coulombic efficiency of 100% for the first scan that drops to 85% for the 5000th scan. This excellent performance is the result of the effect of ZnO and graphene that combines two Li+ accommodation sites, and the contribution of graphene pyramids, which provides more available sites to favor lithium storage capacity. Hence, this anode may be a promising electrode material for lithium-ion batteries.
Interaction of Dietary Linoleic Acid and α-Linolenic Acids with rs174547 in FADS1 Gene on Metabolic Syndrome Components among Vegetarians
Authors: Ching Yuan Kei , Chin Yit Siew , Appukutty Mahenderan , Ramanchadran Vasudevan , Yu Choo Yee , Ang Geik Yong , Gan Wan Ying , Chan Yoke Mun , Teh Lay Kek , Salleh Mohd Zaki
Published: July 2019

Fatty acid desaturase 1 (FADS1) gene controls the fatty acid metabolism pathway in the human body. The lower intake of α-linolenic acid (ALA) than linoleic acid (LA) among vegetarians may disrupt the fatty acid metabolism and limit the conversion of ALA to anti-inflammatory products such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the interaction of rs174547 in FADS1 gene with LA and ALA on metabolic syndrome (MetS) components. A total of 200 Chinese and Indian vegetarians in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, Malaysia participated in the present study. The data on socio-demographic characteristics, vegetarianism practices, dietary practices, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure (BP), and overnight venous fasting blood samples were collected from the vegetarians. The rs174547 in FADS1 gene was significantly associated with MetS and its components such as waist circumference (WC) and fasting blood glucose (FBG). Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that vegetarians with TT genotype of rs174547 in FADS1 gene had higher odds for MetS, larger WC, higher BP, and a lower level of HDL-c. Two-way ANOVA analysis showed that LA interacts with rs174547 in FADS1 gene to affect HDL-c (p < 0.05) among vegetarians. The present findings suggest the need to develop dietary guidelines for vegetarians in Malaysia. Prospective studies are also needed to affirm the interaction between LA and rs174547 in FADS1 gene on HDL-c among Malaysian vegetarians.
Bovine κ-Casein Fragment Induces Hypo-Responsive M2-Like Macrophage Phenotype
Authors: Lalor Richard , O’Neill Sandra
Published: July 2019

Immunomodulatory nutraceuticals have garnered special attention due to their therapeutic potential for the amelioration of many chronic inflammatory conditions. Macrophages are key players in the induction, propagation and resolution of inflammation, actively contributing to the pathogenesis and resolution of inflammatory disorders. As such, this study aimed to investigate the possible therapeutic effects bovine casein derived nutraceuticals exert on macrophage immunological function. Initial studies demonstrated that sodium caseinate induced a M2-like macrophage phenotype that was attributed to the kappa-casein subunit. Kappa-casein primed macrophages acquired a M2-like phenotype that expressed CD206, CD54, OX40L, CD40 on the cell surface and gene expression of Arg-1, RELM-α and YM1, archetypical M2 markers. Macrophages stimulated with kappa-casein secreted significantly reduced TNF-α and IL-10 in response to TLR stimulation through a mechanism that targeted the nuclear factor-κB signal transduction pathway. Macrophage proteolytic processing of kappa-casein was required to elicit these suppressive effects, indicating that a fragment other than C-terminal fragment, glycomacropeptide, induced these modulatory effects. Kappa-casein treated macrophages also impaired T-cell responses. Given the powerful immuno-modulatory effects exhibited by kappa-casein and our understanding of immunopathology associated with inflammatory diseases, this fragment has the potential as an oral nutraceutical and therefore warrants further investigation.
Infant Feeding, Vitamin D and IgE Sensitization to Food Allergens at 6 Years in a Longitudinal Icelandic Cohort
Authors: Thorisdottir Birna , Gunnarsdottir Ingibjorg , Vidarsdottir Anna Gudrun , Sigurdardottir Sigurveig , Birgisdottir Bryndis Eva , Thorsdottir Inga
Published: July 2019

Nordic Nutrition Recommendations (NNR) recommend exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months, partial breastfeeding until 1 year or longer and irrespective of breastfeeding, avoiding solid foods before 4 months. Strong evidence was found for benefits of breastfeeding regarding growth and infections but limited/inconclusive evidence regarding atopic disease and asthma. Vitamin D is of special interest in the Nordic diet. The aim of this prospective study was to compare infant feeding and vitamin D between immunoglobulin E (IgE) sensitized (n = 14) and non-sensitized (n = 130) children at 6 years. Information on diet and vitamin D supplement use were collected with dietary recall (<5 months), 1-d food records (5 and 6 months) and 3-d weighed food records (12 months and 6 years). Serum-specific IgE-antibodies against milk, egg, cod, wheat, soy and peanut (cut-off specific IgE ≥ 0.35 kUA/L) were measured at 6 years and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D at 12 months and 6 years. At 4 months, 57% of IgE sensitized vs. 23% of non-sensitized children (p < 0.01) had received solid food. At 12 months, IgE sensitized children had a lower intake of vitamin D (median (25th, 75th percentiles): 3.9 μg/d (3.2, 7.2) vs. 8.1 μg/d (4.4, 12.3), p = 0.03) and at 6 years, fewer used vitamin D supplements regularly (23% vs. 56%, p = 0.03). Introduction of solid foods prior to 4 months increased the odds of IgE-sensitization, OR = 4.9 (95%, CI = 1.4–16.6) and vitamin D supplement at 6 years decreased the odds of IgE-sensitization, OR = 0.2 (95%, CI = 0.1–0.98), adjusting for maternal smoking. These observations support the NNR in their recommendation against introducing complementary solid foods before the age of 4 months. Furthermore, they support encouraging vitamin D intake for young children at northern latitudes.
Life Style Intervention Improves Retinopathy Status—The Finnish Diabetes Prevention Study
Authors: Aro A. , Kauppinen A. , Kivinen N. , Selander T. , Kinnunen K. , Tuomilehto J. , Keinänen-Kiukaanniemi S. , Lindström J. , Uusitupa M. , Kaarniranta K.
Published: July 2019

The aim of the study was to find out whether participation in earlier intervention had an effect on the occurrence of retinopathy in study participants. We also examined risk factors (age, sex, weight, fasting and 2 h glucose, fasting insulin, blood pressure, serum lipids) for early retinal changes. The study included 522 individuals (mean 55 years old, range 40–64 years) with impaired glucose tolerance who were randomized into intervention (weight loss, healthy diet, and physical activity, N = 265) and control groups (N = 257). Intervention lasted for median of four years in 1993–2000, after which annual follow-up visits at study clinics were conducted. In the years 2002–2006 (at least five years after stopping intervention), fundus photography was offered for all study participants in four of five study clinics. Photographs were assessed by two experienced ophthalmologists (A.A. and K.K.), masked for the group assignment. After exclusion of poor quality photographs, the data of 211 individuals (N = 113 for intervention and N = 98 for control group) were included in the present study. The occurrence of microaneurysms was significantly higher in the control (37/98, 38%) than in the intervention group (27/113, 24%; p = 0.029). In the model, including age, sex, diabetes diagnosis before the retinal assessment, body mass index (BMI), and treatment group, the odds ratio for microaneurysms was markedly lower in intervention group (OR 0.52; 0.28–0.97, p = 0.039). The only risk factor that predicted the occurrence of microaneurysms was serum triglycerides at baseline (mean ± SD 1.9 ± 0.9 vs. 1.6 ± 0.7, mmol/L, with and without microaneurysms, respectively, p = 0.003). Triglycerides associated with decreased microaneurysms in regression analysis for age, sex, fasting glucose, and intervention group (OR 1.92, p = 0.018). Lifestyle intervention in overweight and obese individuals with impaired glucose tolerance showed decreased occurrence of retinal microaneurysms. Elevated serum triglycerides were associated to the development of early diabetic microangiopathy.
Eight Weeks of a High Dose of Curcumin Supplementation May Attenuate Performance Decrements Following Muscle-Damaging Exercise
Authors: Jäger Ralf , Purpura Martin , Kerksick Chad M.
Published: July 2019

Background: It is known that unaccustomed exercise—especially when it has an eccentric component—causes muscle damage and subsequent performance decrements. Attenuating muscle damage may improve performance and recovery, allowing for improved training quality and adaptations. Therefore, the current study sought to examine the effect of two doses of curcumin supplementation on performance decrements following downhill running. Methods: Sixty-three physically active men and women (21 ± 2 y; 70.0 ± 13.7 kg; 169.3 ± 15.2 cm; 25.6 ± 14.3 body mass index (BMI), 32 women, 31 men) were randomly assigned to ingest 250 mg of CurcuWIN® (50 mg of curcuminoids), 1000 mg of CurcuWIN® (200 mg of curcuminoids), or a corn starch placebo (PLA) for eight weeks in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled parallel design. At the end of the supplementation period, subjects completed a downhill running protocol intended to induce muscle damage. Muscle function using isokinetic dynamometry and perceived soreness was assessed prior to and at 1 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h post-downhill run. Results: Isokinetic peak extension torque did not change in the 200-mg dose, while significant reductions occurred in the PLA and 50-mg groups through the first 24 h of recovery. Isokinetic peak flexion torque and power both decreased in the 50-mg group, while no change was observed in the PLA or 200-mg groups. All the groups experienced no changes in isokinetic extension power and isometric average peak torque. Soreness was significantly increased in all the groups compared to the baseline. Non-significant improvements in total soreness were observed for the 200-mg group, but these changes failed to reach statistical significance. Conclusion: When compared to changes observed against PLA, a 200-mg dose of curcumin attenuated reductions in some but not all observed changes in performance and soreness after completion of a downhill running bout. Additionally, a 50-mg dose appears to offer no advantage to changes observed in the PLA and 200-mg groups.
Potential Phytotoxic Effect of Essential Oil of Non-Native Species Impatiens parviflora DC.
Authors: Jurová Jana , Matoušková Martina , Wajs-Bonikowska Anna , Kalemba Danuta , Renčo Marek , Sedlák Vincent , Gogaľová Zuzana , Poráčová Janka , Šalamún Peter , Gruľová Daniela
Published: July 2019

Impatiens parviflora is non-native invasive plant species occupying large areas all over the Europe and threatens native communities by altering their species composition and reducing native biodiversity. The factor responsible for its spreading could be explained by releasing biochemical to the environment. On the other hands, high demand on secondary metabolites as potential source of new ecofriendly biocides could be beneficial. The analysis of I. parviflora essential oil (EO) led us to identify more than 60 volatiles. The main compound was hexahydrofarnesyl acetone, other dominant components were phytol, carvacrol, germacra-4(15),5,10(14)-trien-1-α-ol, and pentacosane. The potential phytotoxic effect of I. parviflora EO collected in two vegetation periods (summer and autumn) was evaluated on seed germination and root elongation of three dicot species (Raphanus sativus, Lepidum sativum, and Lactuca sativa) and on one monocot species (Triticum aestivum). The seed germination of only one dicot species, L. sativa, was affected by both EOs. In contrast, seed germination of monocot species T. aestivum was influenced only by the highest doses of EOs isolated from I. parviflora in autumn. The root elongation of tested plant species was less influenced by I. parviflora EOs. L. sativum showed sensitivity to one dose of EOs hydrodistilled in summer, while the monocot species was influenced by both EOs samples in highest doses. Our findings revealed that I. parviflora contained phenolics that were phytotoxic to the germination of some plant species, mainly at higher EOs doses, while root elongation of tested plants was not suppressed by essential oils.
Identification of Auxin Response Factor-Encoding Genes Expressed in Distinct Phases of Leaf Vein Development and with Overlapping Functions in Leaf Formation
Authors: Schuetz Mathias , Fidanza Mario , Mattsson Jim
Published: July 2019

Based on mutant phenotypes the MONOPTEROS (MP)/Auxin Response Factor 5 (ARF5) gene acts in several developmental processes including leaf vein development. Since overlapping functions among ARF genes are common, we assessed the related ARF 3-8 and 19 genes for potential overlap in expression during vein development using in-situ hybridization. Like MP/ARF5, ARF3 was expressed in preprocambial and procambial cells. ARF7 was also expressed in procambial cells, close to and during vein differentiation. ARF19 was expressed in differentiating vessel elements. To assess if genes with vein expression have overlapping functions, double mutants were generated. While arf3, 5 and 7 mutants formed leaves normally, double mutant combinations of mp/arf5 with arf3 or arf7 resulted in a breakdown of leaf formation. Instead, novel structures not present in any of the single mutants formed. The results implicate ARF3 and ARF7 in rosette leaf formation and suggest that their functions overlap and act in parallel with MP/ARF5 in this process. The observed vascular expression patterns suggest unique functions (ARF7 and 19) and potentially overlapping functions (ARF3 and 5) in vein development. Since arf3 arf5 double mutants do not form leaves, assessment of their potential combined action in vein development will require the use of conditional mutants.
The Diverse Roles of Auxin in Regulating Leaf Development
Authors: Xiong Yuanyuan , Jiao Yuling
Published: July 2019

Leaves, the primary plant organs that function in photosynthesis and respiration, have highly organized, flat structures that vary within and among species. In recent years, it has become evident that auxin plays central roles in leaf development, including leaf initiation, blade formation, and compound leaf patterning. In this review, we discuss how auxin maxima form to define leaf primordium formation. We summarize recent progress in understanding of how spatial auxin signaling promotes leaf blade formation. Finally, we discuss how spatial auxin transport and signaling regulate the patterning of compound leaves and leaf serration.
Growth and Physiology of Two Psammophytes to Precipitation Manipulation in Horqin Sandy Land, Eastern China
Authors: Chen Juanli , Zhao Xueyong , Liu Xinping , Zhang Yaqiu , Luo Yayong , Luo Yongqing , He Zhaoquan , Zhang Rui
Published: July 2019

The availability of water is the critical factor driving plant growth, physiological responses, population and community succession in arid and semiarid regions, thus a precipitation addition-reduction platform with five experimental treatments, was established to explore the growth and physiology of two psammophytes (also known as psammophiles) to precipitation manipulation in Horqin Sandy Land. Changes in coverage and density were measured, and antioxidant enzymes and osmoregulatory substances in both of the studied species were determined. Investigation results showed that the average vegetation coverage increased with an increasing precipitation, and reached a maximum in July. Under the −60% precipitation treatment, Tribulus terrestris accounted for a large proportion of the area, but Bassia dasyphylla was the dominant species in the +60% treatment. T. terrestris was found to have higher a drought stress resistance than B. dasyphylla. From days 4 to 7 after rainfall, B. dasyphylla under precipitation reduction showed obvious water stress. The malondialdehyde (MDA) content of B. dasyphylla was higher than that of T. terrestris, but that of B. dasyphylla had the lower relative water content (RWC). The MDA content in the precipitation reduction treatments of the two studied species was higher than that in the precipitation addition treatments from days 4 to 10. Peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and the soluble proteins and free proline content of T. terrestris were higher than those of B. dasyphylla. The free proline content of T. terrestris and B. dasyphylla increased with increasing drought stress. Our data illustrated that T. terrestris had a higher drought stress resistance than B. dasyphylla, which was correlated with the augmentation of some antioxidant enzymes and osmoregulatory substance. The adaptive mechanism provides solid physiological support for an understanding of psammophyte adaptation to drought stress, and of community succession or species manipulation for desertified land restoration.
The Catholic Church in Contemporary China: How Does the New Regulation on Religious Affairs Influence the Catholic Church?
Authors: Masláková Magdaléna , Satorová Anežka
Published: July 2019

The Chinese government has regulated all religious activity in the public domain for many years. The state has generally considered religious groups as representing a potential challenge to the authority of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which sees one of its basic roles as making sure religion neither interferes with the state’s exercise of power nor harms its citizens. A revised Regulation on Religious Affairs (Zongjiao shiwu tiaoli 宗教事务条例) took effect in 2018, updating the regulation of 2005. This paper aims to introduce and examine the content of the regulation, especially how it differs from its predecessor and how the changes are likely to affect religious groups in China. The Catholic church in China has historical links to the worldwide Catholic church, so articles in the new regulation which seek to curb foreign influence on Chinese religious groups may have more of an effect on Chinese Catholics than on other groups. The paper addresses two main questions: How does the new regulation affect the Catholic church and what strategies are employed by the Catholic church in order to comply with the regulation? The research is based on textual analysis of the relevant legal documents and on field research conducted in the People Republic of China (PRC). The fieldwork consisted of open interviews with several church members and official representatives of the church conducted in Zhejiang Province between March and May 2018, and in May and June 2019. The paper thus aims to analyze contemporary Chinese religious legislation with respect to the lived experience of Catholics in China.
Investigating Consumers’ Perception of Discounted Suboptimal Products at Retail Stores
Authors: Cicatiello Clara , Secondi Luca , Principato Ludovica
Published: July 2019

Following the increasing pressure to reduce food waste at supermarkets, many retailers are starting initiatives to prevent the disposal of food items or to manage the waste produced in a more sustainable way. The practice of applying discounts on close-to-date and other suboptimal products is becoming popular, as reducing price pushes consumers to accept small defects of food products. Here, the attitude of 218 supermarket customers towards these discounts is analysed, basing on a questionnaire survey. Two-thirds of the sample declare to be interested in discounts on close-to-date products; the determinants of this interest are studied through a Generalized Maximum Entropy model against a set of socio-demographic and behavioral factors. Results suggest that the interest towards discounts on close-to-date product is primarily driven by a general attitude to save money in food shopping. However, an interesting positive effect is observed for the use of a shopping list at the supermarket, which may be linked to a greater attention on food planning and, consequently, to a lower production of food waste at home. In conclusion, date-based pricing seems to be an effective strategy to address food waste reduction in a sustainable management perspective, for its attractive capacity on different profiles of consumers.
Quantifying the Impacts of Land-Use and Climate on Carbon Fluxes Using Satellite Data across Texas, U.S.
Authors: Ray Ram L. , Ibironke Ademola , Kommalapati Raghava , Fares Ali
Published: July 2019

Climate change and variability, soil types and soil characteristics, animal and microbial communities, and photosynthetic plants are the major components of the ecosystem that affect carbon sequestration potential of any location. This study used NASA’s Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) Level 4 carbon products, gross primary productivity (GPP), and net ecosystem exchange (NEE) to quantify their spatial and temporal variabilities for selected terrestrial ecosystems across Texas during the 2015–2018 study period. These SMAP carbon products are available at 9 km spatial resolution on a daily basis. The ten selected SMAP grids are located in seven climate zones and dominated by five major land uses (developed, crop, forest, pasture, and shrub). Results showed CO2 emissions and uptake were affected by land-use and climatic conditions across Texas. It was also observed that climatic conditions had more impact on CO2 emissions and uptake than land-use in this state. On average, South Central Plains and East Central Texas Plains ecoregions of East Texas and Western Gulf Coastal Plain ecoregion of Upper Coast climate zones showed higher GPP flux and potential carbon emissions and uptake than other climate zones across the state, whereas shrubland on the Trans Pecos climate zone showed lower GPP flux and carbon emissions/uptake. Comparison of GPP and NEE distribution maps between 2015 and 2018 confirmed substantial changes in carbon emissions and uptake across Texas. These results suggest that SMAP carbon products can be used to study the terrestrial carbon cycle at regional to global scales. Overall, this study helps to understand the impacts of climate, land-use, and ecosystem dynamics on the terrestrial carbon cycle.
Giving Ecological Meaning to Satellite-Derived Fire Severity Metrics across North American Forests
Authors: Parks Sean , Holsinger Lisa , Koontz Michael , Collins Luke , Whitman Ellen , Parisien Marc-André , Loehman Rachel , Barnes Jennifer , Bourdon Jean-François , Boucher Jonathan , Boucher Yan , Caprio Anthony , Collingwood Adam , Hall Ron , Park Jane , Saperstein Lisa , Smetanka Charlotte , Smith Rebecca , Soverel Nick
Published: July 2019

Satellite-derived spectral indices such as the relativized burn ratio (RBR) allow fire severity maps to be produced in a relatively straightforward manner across multiple fires and broad spatial extents. These indices often have strong relationships with field-based measurements of fire severity, thereby justifying their widespread use in management and science. However, satellite-derived spectral indices have been criticized because their non-standardized units render them difficult to interpret relative to on-the-ground fire effects. In this study, we built a Random Forest model describing a field-based measure of fire severity, the composite burn index (CBI), as a function of multiple spectral indices, a variable representing spatial variability in climate, and latitude. CBI data primarily representing forested vegetation from 263 fires (8075 plots) across the United States and Canada were used to build the model. Overall, the model performed well, with a cross-validated R2 of 0.72, though there was spatial variability in model performance. The model we produced allows for the direct mapping of CBI, which is more interpretable compared to spectral indices. Moreover, because the model and all spectral explanatory variables were produced in Google Earth Engine, predicting and mapping of CBI can realistically be undertaken on hundreds to thousands of fires. We provide all necessary code to execute the model and produce maps of CBI in Earth Engine. This study and its products will be extremely useful to managers and scientists in North America who wish to map fire effects over large landscapes or regions.