bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid Identification for the Pterocarpus Bracelet by Three-Step Infrared Spectrum Method
Authors: Jin Zhi , Cui Weili , Zhang Fangda , Wang Fang , Cheng Shichao , Fu Yuejin , Huang Anmin
Published: July 2022

In order to explore a rapid identification method for the anti-counterfeit of commercial high value collections, a three-step infrared spectrum method was used for the pterocarpus collection identification to confirm whether a commercial pterocarpus bracelet (PB) was made from the precious species of Pterocarpus santalinus (P. santalinus). In the first step, undertaken by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrum, the absorption peaks intensity of PB was slightly higher than that of P. santalinus only at 1594 cm−1, 1205 cm−1, 1155 cm−1 and 836 cm−1. In the next step of second derivative IR spectra (SDIR), the FTIR features of the tested samples were further amplified, and the peaks at 1600 cm−1, 1171 cm−1 and 1152 cm−1 become clearly defined in PB. Finally, by means of two-dimensional correlation infrared (2DIR) spectrum, it revealed that the response of holocellulose to thermal perturbation was stronger in P. santalinus than that in PB mainly at 977 cm−1, 1008 cm−1, 1100 cm−1, 1057 cm−1, 1190 cm−1 and 1214 cm−1, while the aromatic functional groups of PB were much more sensitive to the thermal perturbation than those of P. santalinus mainly at 1456 cm−1, 1467 cm−1, 1518 cm−1, 1558 cm−1, 1576 cm−1 and 1605 cm−1. In addition, fluorescence microscopy was used to verify the effectiveness of the above method for wood identification and the results showed good consistency. This study demonstrated that the three-step IR method could provide a rapid and effective way for the anti-counterfeit of pterocarpus collections.
Biochemical Characterization and In Vitro Digestibility of Protein Isolates from Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) By-Products for Salmonid Feed Applications
Authors: Banskota Arjun H. , Tibbetts Sean M. , Jones Alysson , Stefanova Roumiana , Behnke Joerg
Published: July 2022

Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) processing by-products (hemp cake and hemp seed hulls) were studied for their protein content, extraction of protein isolates (PIs), and their in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD). Crude protein contents of hemp cake and hemp seed hulls were 30.4% and 8.6%, respectively, calculated based on generalized N-to-P conversion factor (N × 5.37). Extraction efficiency of PIs from defatted biomass ranged from 56.0 to 67.7% with alkaline extraction (0.1 M NaOH) followed by isoelectric precipitation (1.0 M HCl). Nitrogen analysis suggested that the total protein contents of PIs extracted using three different alkaline conditions (0.5 M, 0.1 M, and pH 10.0 with NaOH) were >69.7%. The hemp by-product PIs contained all essential amino acids (EAAs) required for fish with leucine, valine, and phenylalanine belonging to the five dominant amino acids. Overall, glutamate was the dominant non-EAA followed by aspartate. Coomassie staining of an SDS-PAGE gel revealed strong presence of the storage protein edestin. High IVPD of >88% was observed for PIs extracted from hemp seeds and by-products when evaluated using a two-phase in vitro gastric/pancreatic protein digestibility assay. PIs extracted from by-products were further tested for their antioxidant activities. The tested PIs showed dose-dependent DPPH radical scavenging activity and possessed strong ORAC values > 650 μM TE/g.
In Vitro and In Vivo Human Body Odor Analysis Method Using GO:PANI/ZNRs/ZIF−8 Adsorbent Followed by GC/MS
Authors: Kim Sehyun , Bae Sunyoung
Published: July 2022

Among various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from human skin, trans-2-nonenal, benzothiazole, hexyl salicylate, α-hexyl cinnamaldehyde, and isopropyl palmitate are key indicators associated with the degrees of aging. In our study, extraction and determination methods of human body odor are newly developed using headspace-in needle microextraction (HS-INME). The adsorbent was synthesized with graphene oxide:polyaniline/zinc nanorods/zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (GO:PANI/ZNRs/ZIF−8). Then, a wire coated with the adsorbent was placed into the adsorption kit to be directly exposed to human skin as in vivo sampling and inserted into the needle so that it was able to be desorbed at the GC injector. The adsorption kit was made in-house with a 3D printer. For the in vitro method, the wire coated with the adsorbent was inserted into the needle and exposed to the headspace of the vial. When a cotton T-shirt containing body odor was transferred to a vial, the headspace of the vial was saturated with body odor VOCs. After volatile organic compounds were adsorbed in the dynamic mode, the needle was transferred to the injector for analysis of the volatile organic compounds by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The conditions of adsorbent fabrication and extraction for body odor compounds were optimized by response surface methodology (RSM). In conclusion, it was able to synthesize GO:PANI/ZNRs/ZIF−8 at the optimal condition and applicable to both in vivo and in vitro methods for body odor VOCs analysis.
Compositions and Biological Activities of Pomegranate Peel Polyphenols Extracted by Different Solvents
Authors: Feng Yanlin , Lin Jiali , He Gang , Liang Li , Liu Qijun , Yan Jun , Yao Qian
Published: July 2022

Pomegranate peel extract (PPE), which is abundant in polyphenols, holds immerse prospects for the treatment of airway infection. In this study, water and ethanol of 30%, 50%, and 80% were used to prepare PPE. A total of 18 phenols belonging to 8 categories of polyphenols were identified in PPE by HPLC-MS/MS. The PPE from the four extraction solvents possessed different antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Principal component analysis revealed that though total flavonoids (TFs), total polyphenols (TPs), and total tannins (TTs) were responsible for the reducing power of PPE, only TFs contributed to the effect of PPE in inhibiting lipid membrane peroxidation. TPs, TTs, and punicalagin were positively correlated with the antibacterial strength against S. aureus while TTs alone contributed to the inhibition of methicillin-resistant S. aureus, implying the crucial role of TT in suppressing bacteria. Meanwhile, TTs was associated with the prevention of IL-6 release. The PPE with higher contents of TPs, TTs, and punicalagin had a weaker capacity to decrease nitric oxide secretion. PPE of 30% ethanol gained the highest integrated score due to its stronger antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. It is a suitable candidate for the therapy of respiratory tract infection.
GPR183 Regulates 7α,25-Dihydroxycholesterol-Induced Oxiapoptophagy in L929 Mouse Fibroblast Cell
Authors: Kim Jae-Sung , Lim HyangI , Seo Jeong-Yeon , Kang Kyeong-Rok , Yu Sun-Kyoung , Kim Chun Sung , Kim Do Kyung , Kim Heung-Joong , Seo Yo-Seob , Lee Gyeong-Je , You Jae-Seek , Oh Ji-Su
Published: July 2022

7α,25-dihydroxycholesterol (7α,25-DHC) is an oxysterol synthesized from 25-hydroxycholesterol by cytochrome P450 family 7 subfamily B member 1 (CYP7B1) and is a monooxygenase (oxysterol-7α-hydroxylase) expressed under inflammatory conditions in various cell types. In this study, we verified that 7α,25-DHC-induced oxiapoptophagy is mediated by apoptosis, oxidative stress, and autophagy in L929 mouse fibroblasts. MTT assays and live/dead cell staining revealed that cytotoxicity was increased by 7α,25-DHC in L929 cells. Consequentially, cells with condensed chromatin and altered morphology were enhanced in L929 cells incubated with 7α,25-DHC for 48 h. Furthermore, apoptotic population was increased by 7α,25-DHC exposure through the cascade activation of caspase-9, caspase-3, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase in the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis in these cells. 7α,25-DHC upregulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) in L929 cells. Expression of autophagy biomarkers, including beclin-1 and LC3, was significantly increased by 7α,25-DHC treatment in L929 cells. 7α,25-DHC inhibits the phosphorylation of Akt associated with autophagy and increases p53 expression in L929 cells. In addition, inhibition of G-protein-coupled receptor 183 (GPR183), a receptor of 7α,25-DHC, using GPR183 specific antagonist NIBR189 suppressed 7α,25-DHC-induced apoptosis, ROS production, and autophagy in L929 cells. Collectively, GPR183 regulates 7α,25-DHC-induced oxiapoptophagy in L929 cells.
Review of Fluorescence Spectroscopy in Environmental Quality Applications
Authors: Zacharioudaki Despoina-Eleni , Fitilis Ioannis , Kotti Melina
Published: July 2022

Fluorescence spectroscopy is an optical spectroscopic method that has been applied for the assessment of environmental quality extensively during the last 20 years. Most of the earlier works have used conventional light sources in spectrofluorometers to assess quality. Many recent works have used laser sources of light for the same purpose. The improvement of the energy sources and of the higher resolution spectrometers has led to a tremendous increase in applications. The motivation for the present review study is the increasing use of laser sources in environmental applications. The review is divided in two parts. The fundamental principles of fluorescence spectroscopy are described in the first part. The environmental applications are described in the second part.
Single-Stage Extraction and Separation of Co2+ from Ni2+ Using Ionic Liquid of [C4H9NH3][Cyanex 272]
Authors: Jing Xiaohua , Sun Zhumei , Zhao Dandan , Sun Huimin , Ren Jie
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study was to optimize the extraction conditions for separating Co2+ from Ni2+ using N-butylamine phosphinate ionic liquid of [C4H9NH3][Cyanex 272]. A Box–Behnken design of response surface methodology was used to analyze the effects of the initial pH, extraction time, and extraction temperature on the separation factor of Co2+ from sulfuric acid solution containing Ni2+. The concentrations of Co2+ and Ni2+ in an aqueous solution were determined using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. The optimized extraction conditions were as follows: an initial pH of 3.7, an extraction time of 55.8 min, and an extraction temperature of 330.4 K. The separation factor of Co2+ from Ni2+ under optimized extraction conditions was 66.1, which was very close to the predicted value of 67.2, and the error was 1.7%. The equation for single-stage extraction with high reliability can be used for optimizing the multi-stage extraction process of Co2+ from Ni2+. The stoichiometry of chemical reaction for ion-exchange extraction was also investigated using the slope method.
MALDI-MSI: A Powerful Approach to Understand Primary Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Metastases
Authors: Gonçalves Juliana Pereira Lopes , Bollwein Christine , Schlitter Anna Melissa , Kriegsmann Mark , Jacob Anne , Weichert Wilko , Schwamborn Kristina
Published: July 2022

Cancer-related deaths are very commonly attributed to complications from metastases to neighboring as well as distant organs. Dissociate response in the treatment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma is one of the main causes of low treatment success and low survival rates. This behavior could not be explained by transcriptomics or genomics; however, differences in the composition at the protein level could be observed. We have characterized the proteomic composition of primary pancreatic adenocarcinoma and distant metastasis directly in human tissue samples, utilizing mass spectrometry imaging. The mass spectrometry data was used to train and validate machine learning models that could distinguish both tissue entities with an accuracy above 90%. Model validation on samples from another collection yielded a correct classification of both entities. Tentative identification of the discriminative molecular features showed that collagen fragments (COL1A1, COL1A2, and COL3A1) play a fundamental role in tumor development. From the analysis of the receiver operating characteristic, we could further advance some potential targets, such as histone and histone variations, that could provide a better understanding of tumor development, and consequently, more effective treatments.
Marine Cyanobacteria as Sources of Lead Anticancer Compounds: A Review of Families of Metabolites with Cytotoxic, Antiproliferative, and Antineoplastic Effects
Authors: Robles-Bañuelos Benjamín , Durán-Riveroll Lorena María , Rangel-López Edgar , Pérez-López Hugo Isidro , González-Maya Leticia
Published: July 2022

The marine environment is highly diverse, each living creature fighting to establish and proliferate. Among marine organisms, cyanobacteria are astounding secondary metabolite producers representing a wonderful source of biologically active molecules aimed to communicate, defend from predators, or compete. Studies on these molecules’ origins and activities have been systematic, although much is still to be discovered. Their broad chemical diversity results from integrating peptide and polyketide synthetases and synthases, along with cascades of biosynthetic transformations resulting in new chemical structures. Cyanobacteria are glycolipid, macrolide, peptide, and polyketide producers, and to date, hundreds of these molecules have been isolated and tested. Many of these compounds have demonstrated important bioactivities such as cytotoxicity, antineoplastic, and antiproliferative activity with potential pharmacological uses. Some are currently under clinical investigation. Additionally, conventional chemotherapeutic treatments include drugs with a well-known range of side effects, making anticancer drug research from new sources, such as marine cyanobacteria, necessary. This review is focused on the anticancer bioactivities of metabolites produced by marine cyanobacteria, emphasizing the identification of each variant of the metabolite family, their chemical structures, and the mechanisms of action underlying their biological and pharmacological activities.
Comparison of Vibrational Spectroscopic Techniques for Quantification of Water in Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Elderderi Suha , Sacré Pierre-Yves , Wils Laura , Chourpa Igor , Elbashir Abdalla A. , Hubert Philippe , Byrne Hugh J. , Boudesocque-Delaye Leslie , Ziemons Eric , Bonnier Franck
Published: July 2022

Vibrational spectroscopic techniques, i.e., attenuated total reflectance infrared (ATR-IR), near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and Raman spectroscopy (RS), coupled with Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR), were evaluated as cost-effective label-free and reagent-free tools to monitor water content in Levulinic Acid/L-Proline (LALP) (2:1, mol/mol) Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent (NADES). ATR-IR delivered the best outcome of Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) of Cross-Validation (CV) = 0.27% added water concentration, RMSE of Prediction (P) = 0.27% added water concentration and mean % relative error = 2.59%. Two NIRS instruments (benchtop and handheld) were also compared during the study, respectively yielding RMSECV = 0.35% added water concentration, RMSEP = 0.56% added water concentration and mean % relative error = 5.13% added water concentration, and RMECV = 0.36% added water concentration, RMSEP = 0.68% added water concentration and mean % relative error = 6.23%. RS analysis performed in quartz cuvettes enabled accurate water quantification with RMECV = 0.43% added water concentration, RMSEP = 0.67% added water concentration and mean % relative error = 6.75%. While the vibrational spectroscopic techniques studied have shown high performance in relation to reliable determination of water concentration, their accuracy is most likely related to their sensitivity to detect the LALP compounds in the NADES. For instance, whereas ATR-IR spectra display strong features from water, Levulinic Acid and L-Proline that contribute to the PLSR predictive models constructed, NIRS and RS spectra are respectively dominated by either water or LALP compounds, representing partial molecular information and moderate accuracy compared to ATR-IR. However, while ATR-IR instruments are common in chemistry and physics laboratories, making the technique readily transferable to water quantification in NADES, Raman spectroscopy offers promising potential for future development for in situ, sample withdrawal-free analysis for high throughput and online monitoring.
Highly Compressible Elastic Aerogel Spring-Based Piezoionic Self-Powering Pressure Sensor for Multifunctional Wearable Electronics
Authors: Wei Ning , Li Yan , Zhu Chunqin , Tang Yuxi
Published: July 2022

To meet the rapid development of wearable flexible electronics, the multifunctional integrations into singe device are in extreme demand. In this paper, we developed novel self-powering multifunctional pressure sensors and supercapacitor-integrated device based on highly elastic silver nanowires@reduced graphene aerogel, being conductive to reduce integration difficulties and device size. Serving as an energy device, it behaves with a prominent specific capacitance of 146.6 F g−1, and excellent rate capability even at 500 mV s−1. The fabricated sensor demonstrates an excellent sensitivity of 2.54 kPa−1 and superior pressure-sensing stability up to 1000 compressive cycles. Piezoionization effect is suggested to reveal the sensing mechanism. Our research provides a new research direction in designing the integration of self-driving wearable electronics.
High Thermoelectric Power Generation by SWCNT/PPy Core Shell Nanocomposites
Authors: Almasoudi M. , Salah Numan , Alshahrie Ahmed , Saeed Abdu , Aljaghtham Mutabe , Zoromba M. Sh. , Abdel-Aziz M. H. , Koumoto Kunihito
Published: July 2022

Polypyrrole (PPy) is a conducting polymer with attractive thermoelectric (TE) properties. It is simple to fabricate and modify its morphology for enhanced electrical conductivity. However, such improvement is still limited to considerably enhancing TE performance. In this case, a single-wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT), which has ultrathin diameters and exhibits semi-metallic electrical conductivity, might be a proper candidate to be combined with PPy as a core shell one-dimensional (1D) nanocomposite for higher TE power generation. In this work, core shell nanocomposites based on SWCNT/PPy were fabricated. Various amounts of pyrrole (Py), which are monomer sources for PPy, were coated on SWCNT, along with methyl orange (MO) as a surfactant and ferric chloride as an initiator. The optimum value of Py for maximum TE performance was determined. The results showed that the SWCNT acted as a core template to direct the self-assembly of PPy and also to further enhance TE performance. The TE power factor, PF, and figure of merit, zT, values of the pure PPy were initially recorded as ~1 µW/mK2 and 0.0011, respectively. These values were greatly increased to 360 µW/mK2 and 0.09 for the optimized core shell nanocomposite sample. The TE power generation characteristics of the fabricated single-leg module of the optimized sample were also investigated and confirmed these findings. This enhancement was attributed to the uniform coating and good interaction between PPy polymer chains and walls of the SWCNT through π–π stacking. The significant enhancement in the TE performance of SWCNT/PPy nanocomposite is found to be superior compared to those reported in similar composites, which indicates that this nanocomposite is a suitable and scalable TE material for TE power generation.
Quality Evaluation of Dietary Supplements for Weight Loss Based on Garcinia cambogia
Authors: Mena-García Adal , Bellaizac-Riascos Angie Julieth , Rada-Mendoza Maite , Chito-Trujillo Diana María , Ruiz-Matute Ana Isabel , Sanz María Luz
Published: July 2022

Food supplements of plant origin for weight control are increasingly being demanded by consumers as a way to promote good health. Among them, those based on Garcinia cambogia (GCFS) are widely commercialized considering their bioactive properties, mainly due to (-)-hydroxycitric acid ((-)-HCA). However, recently, controversy has arisen over their safety; thus, further research and continuous monitoring of their composition is required. Hence, in this work, a multi-analytical approach was followed to determine not only (-)-HCA but also other constituents of 18 GCFS, which could be used as quality markers to detect fraudulent practices in these samples. Discrepancies between the declared (-)-HCA content and that experimentally determined were detected by LC–UV in 33% of the samples. Moreover, GC–MS analyses of GCFS allowed the detection of different compounds not present in G. cambogia fruits and not declared on supplement labels, probably related to heat exposure or to the addition of excipients or other extracts. This multi-analytical methodology is shown to be advantageous to address different fraudulent practices affecting the quality of these supplements.
The Associations between Metalloestrogens, GSTP1, and SLC11A2 Polymorphism and the Risk of Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Michalczyk Kaja , Kapczuk Patrycja , Witczak Grzegorz , Bosiacki Mateusz , Kurzawski Mateusz , Chlubek Dariusz , Cymbaluk-Płoska Aneta
Published: July 2022

Background: The incidence of endometrial cancer (EC) is still rising. Numerous risk factors including patient characteristics and molecular instability have been identified for EC. The presence of specific molecular markers allows specific diagnostic and prognostic approaches. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been identified to influence endometrial cancer risk. Metalloestrogens are metal ions which can mimic estrogen activity; however, their role in uterine pathologies remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate total blood trace elements levels and evaluate the distribution of selected genotypes in GSTP1 and SLC11A2 genes. Methods: This retrospective case-control analysis was carried out in peripheral blood samples of 110 women with endometrial cancer (EC; n = 21), uterine fibroma (n = 25), endometrial polyp (n = 48), and normal endometrium (n = 16). Analysis included measurement of metals and phosphor in serum, and of genetic polymorphisms in GST (rs1695) and SLC11A2 (rs224589) in DNA from white blood cells. Serum trace elements were measured using ICP-OES spectrometry. SNPs were identified using Taq Man real-time PCR genotyping assays. Results: The study confirmed higher age (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.69–2.24), post-menopausal status (OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.36–1.94), and diabetes type 2 (OR 1.54; 95% CI 0.97–1.72) as independent risk factors for EC. We also found a high level of Cd (OR 1.49; 95% CI 1.31–1.63) and a low level of Co (OR 0.76; 95% CI 0.53–0.59) to be independent risk factors of EC. None of the tested polymorphisms of GSTP1 and SLC11A2 were associated with EC risk. However, high Cd (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.15–1.29) and Ni (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.05–1.18) serum levels were significantly associated with a SLC1A2 TG genotype, and high Cd levels with GSTP1 (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01–1.13).
Association between Lebanese Mediterranean Diet and Frailty in Community-Dwelling Lebanese Older Adults—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Daou Tracy , Abi Kharma Joelle , Daccache Alexandra , Bassil Maya , Naja Farah , Rahi Berna
Published: July 2022

Discrepancies in the characteristics of the food components of a Mediterranean diet exist based on the country of origin. In Lebanon, a traditional Mediterranean diet emphasizes the high intakes of fruits (including dried), vegetables, burghol, and dairy products. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aimed to explore the association between adherence to the Lebanese Mediterranean diet (LMD) and frailty among older adults in Lebanon. A total of 112 community-dwelling older adults aged ≥65 years were recruited. Demographic and clinical characteristics were collected through face-to-face interviews. A 61-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to collect dietary intake data, and adherence to LMD was calculated. Physical frailty was defined by the presence of three out of the five criterion: weight loss, weakness, exhaustion, slowness, and low activity. Binary logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between LMD adherence and frailty while adjusting for several confounders. The participants’ mean age was 73 ± 12.8 and 65% were females. Sixteen (14.3%) individuals were identified as frail. Frail individuals were significantly older (p = 0.001), depressed (p < 0.001), at risk of cognitive impairment (p = 0.006), and reported polypharmacy (p = 0.003). No significant association was found between LMD adherence and frailty in fully adjusted models (OR = 0.195; 95% CI: 0.033–1.154; p = 0.071 when categorical and OR = 0.856; 95% CI: 0.668–1.097; p = 0.218 when continuous). We also performed additional analyses with a modified frailty index where house chores were not considered as part of leisure activities of the physical activity criterion. The results showed that a higher LMD adherence was associated with a significantly decreased frailty prevalence (OR = 0.123, 95% CI: 0.022–0.676, p = 0.016 when categorical and OR = 0.773, 95% CI 0.608–0.983, p = 0.036). Larger, longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the relationship between the adherence to the Lebanese Mediterranean diet and frailty in Lebanese older adults.
Adherence to the Western, Prudent and Mediterranean Dietary Patterns and Colorectal Cancer Risk: Findings from the Spanish Cohort of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC-Spain)
Authors: Castelló Adela , Rodríguez-Barranco Miguel , Fernández de Larrea Nerea , Jakszyn Paula , Dorronsoro Ane , Amiano Pilar , Chirlaque María-Dolores , Colorado-Yohar Sandra , Guevara Marcela , Moreno-Iribas Conchi , Pollán Marina , Sánchez María-José
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to explore the association between three previously identified dietary patterns (Western, Prudent, and Mediterranean) and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk by sex and cancer subtype. The Spanish cohort of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study provided dietary and epidemiological information from 15,629 men and 25,808 women recruited between 1992 and 1996. Among them, 568 CRC cases and 3289 deaths were identified during a median follow-up of 16.98 years. The associations between adherence to the three dietary patterns and CRC risk (overall, by sex, and by tumour location: proximal and distal colon and rectum) were investigated by fitting multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models stratified by study centre and age. Possible heterogeneity of the effects by sex and follow-up time (1–10 vs. ≥10 years) was also explored. While no clear effect of the Prudent dietary pattern on CRC risk was found, a suggestive detrimental effect of the Western dietary pattern was observed, especially during the first 10 years of follow-up (HR1SD-increase (95% CI): 1.17 (0.99–1.37)), among females (HR1SD-increase (95% CI): 1.31 (1.06–1.61)), and for rectal cancer (HR1SD-increase (95% CI): 1.38 (1.03–1.84)). In addition, high adherence to the Mediterranean pattern seemed to protect against CRC, especially when restricting the analyses to the first 10 years of follow-up (HR1SD-increase (95% CI): 0.84 (0.73–0.98)), among males (HR1SD-increase (95% CI): 0.80 (0.65–0.98)), and specifically against distal colon cancer (HR1SD-increase (95% CI): 0.81 (0.63–1.03)). In conclusion, low adherence to the Western diet and high adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern could prevent CRC, especially distal colon and rectal cancer.
Advanced Glycation End Products and Their Effect on Vascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Lee Jeongmin , Yun Jae-Seung , Ko Seung-Hyun
Published: July 2022

Diabetes is well established as a chronic disease with a high health burden due to mortality or morbidity from the final outcomes of vascular complications. An increased duration of hyperglycemia is associated with abnormal metabolism. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are nonenzymatic glycated forms of free amino acids that lead to abnormal crosslinking of extra-cellular and intracellular proteins by disrupting the normal structure. Furthermore, the interaction of AGEs and their receptors induces several pathways by promoting oxidative stress and inflammation. In this review, we discuss the role of AGEs in diabetic vascular complications, especially type 2 DM, based on recent clinical studies.
The Influence of Viral Infections on Iron Homeostasis and the Potential for Lactoferrin as a Therapeutic in the Age of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic
Authors: Ward Jeffrey L. , Torres-Gonzalez Moises , Ammons Mary Cloud B.
Published: July 2022

The association of hyperinflammation and hyperferritinemia with adverse outcomes in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients suggests an integral role for iron homeostasis in pathogenesis, a commonly described symptom of respiratory viral infections. This dysregulated iron homeostasis results in viral-induced lung injury, often lasting long after the acute viral infection; however, much remains to be understood mechanistically. Lactoferrin is a multipurpose glycoprotein with key immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral functions, which can be found in various secreted fluids, but is most abundantly characterized in milk from all mammalian species. Lactoferrin is found at its highest concentrations in primate colostrum; however, the abundant availability of bovine-dairy-derived lactoferrin (bLf) has led to the use of bLf as a functional food. The recent research has demonstrated the potential value of bovine lactoferrin as a therapeutic adjuvant against SARS-CoV-2, and herein this research is reviewed and the potential mechanisms of therapeutic targeting are considered.
Evaluation of Dietary Intake and Anthropometric Status in 1–9-Year-Old Children Living in Serbia: National Food Consumption Survey according to the EU Menu Methodology
Authors: Zeković Milica , Milešević Jelena , Takić Marija , Knez Marija , Šarac Ivana , Kadvan Agnes , Gurinović Mirjana , Glibetić Marija
Published: July 2022

The Serbian Food Consumption Survey among 1–9-year-old-children was conceptualized and conducted in compliance with the principles, established protocols, and guidelines of the EU Menu project between 2017 and 2021. Valid data were collected for 576 individuals (290 1–3-year-old toddlers and 276 3–9-year-old children). Regardless of age and gender category, the majority (68.80%) of children had normal weights according to the Body Mass Index-for-age classification system. The median daily energy intake was 1406.71 kcal with no differences between the settlement types. The overall median contributions of carbohydrates, protein, and fat to the total energy intake were 47.54%, 14.06%, and 37.88%, respectively. The proportions of the macronutrient intake deviated from the dietary reference values with compliance to the recommendations being particularly poor for fat and fiber. The consumption of energy-dense food groups such as meat and meat products, fat and oil, sugar, and confections was more pronounced among older children. The survey results provide a valuable insight into the nutritional status and dietary habits of toddlers and children 1–9 years old living in Serbia. They may serve as an evidence platform for public health programs, a valuable asset for decision-makers, and a reliable reference to guide nutritional policies, diet monitoring, and interventions targeting this population group in the future.
Clinical Observations Associated with Phenobarbital Serum Monitoring to Manage Epilepsy in a California Sea Lion with Domoic Acid Toxicosis
Authors: Simeone Claire A. , Scott Gregory , Navarro Ryan A. , Procter Diana
Published: July 2022

The marine algal toxin domoic acid is an important threat to marine mammal health, and exposure can lead to both acute neurologic signs and a chronic epileptic syndrome in California sea lions (Zalophus californianus). Phenobarbital has been used for several decades to manage seizures, although reports are limited correlating dosing, serum monitoring and clinical efficacy in this species. This report details serum monitoring over 33 months in an 8-year-old male sea lion. Seizure control was achieved when phenobarbital concentrations were above 18 μg/mL, and sedation and ataxia were noted when concentrations were above 35 μg/mL. There was no clinically significant difference between phenobarbital concentrations resulting from once-daily versus twice-daily dosing. Serum levels remained detectable as far as 101 days after administration, and remained stable during periods of prolonged anorexia, although dramatic decreases in serum concentrations were noted immediately after normal eating resumed. For this animal, a serum phenobarbital target range of 20–30 μg/mL was achievable with a dose of 1.5 mg/kg once daily followed by therapeutic monitoring, and this is a reasonable recommended concentration and initial dose for clinicians treating this species. Long-term seizure control may be difficult to achieve with anti-epileptic drugs such as phenobarbital alone, and further research is needed to make novel options useful for clinical management of biotoxin-related neurologic disease in this aquatic species.
Metagenomic Insights into Pathogenic Characterization of ST410 Acinetobacter nosocomialis Prevalent in China
Authors: Jing Liang , Xu Zhuofei , Zhang Youping , Li Dayong , Song Yaqin , Hu Hongjie , Fang Yuan , Zhu Wei
Published: July 2022

Acinetobacter nosocomialis is a prevalent opportunistic pathogen that causes hospital-acquired infections. The increasing threats from A. nosocomialis infections have led to attention from the scientific and medical communities. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) was performed for an exudate specimen collected from an ICU patient with wound infection, followed by sepsis, in Tongji Hospital. Three assembly strategies were employed to recover the genome of A. nosocomialis in the metagenomic sample. Together with publicly available genomes of A. nosocomialis, the features of population genetics and molecular epidemiology were deeply analyzed. A draft genome was reconstructed for the metagenomic strain WHM01, derived from the ST410 A. nosocomialis dominating the microbial community, thereby prompting its highly pathogenic risk, which is associated with infection and persistence. The structure of the bacterial pangenome was characterized, including the 1862 core and 11,815 accessory genes present in the 157 strains. The genetic diversity of the genes coding for the 128 virulence factors assigned to 14 functional categories was uncovered in this nosocomial pathogen, such as the lipooligosaccharide, capsule, type IV pilus, and outer membrane proteins. Our work revealed genomic properties of ST410 A. nosocomialis, which is prevalent in China, and further highlighted that metagenomic surveillance may be a prospective application for evaluating the pathogenic characteristics of the nosocomial opportunistic pathogens.
The Effect of Necrotic Enteritis Challenge on Production Performance, Cecal Microbiome, and Cecal Tonsil Transcriptome in Broilers
Authors: Akerele Gabriel , Al Hakeem Walid , Lourenco Jeferson , Selvaraj Ramesh
Published: July 2022

The objective of this study was to identify the effects of experimental necrotic enteritis (NE) infection on the production performance, gut microbiome, and cecal tonsil transcriptome in broiler birds. A total of 192 chicks were not-induced (control) or induced with NE. NE was induced by inoculating Eimeria maxima at 14 d of age and Clostridium perfringens at 19, 20, and 21 d of age. NE challenge increased (p < 0.01) NE lesion score at 7 days post-E.maxima infection (dpi), decreased (p < 0.01) average weight gain and increased (p < 0.01) mortality at 7 and 14 dpi. NE challenge increased (p < 0.05) gut permeability at 5, 6, and 7 dpi and increased ileal C. perfringens load at 5 dpi. NE challenge increased (p < 0.01) Eimeria oocyst shedding at 5, 6, 7, 8 and 14 dpi. NE challenge decreased (p < 0.05) the relative abundance of Lactobacillaceae and increased (p < 0.05) the relative abundance of Campylobacteriaceae, Comamonadaceae, and Ruminococcaceae at 6 dpi. NE challenge upregulated (p < 0.05) genes related to immune response and downregulated (p < 0.05) genes related to lipid metabolism at 6 dpi. It can be concluded that NE infection decreased beneficial bacteria and increased gut permeability.
Occurrence of Macrophomina phaseolina on Chickpea in Italy: Pathogen Identification and Characterization
Authors: Dell’Olmo Eliana , Tripodi Pasquale , Zaccardelli Massimo , Sigillo Loredana
Published: July 2022

Climate change has led to the spread of plant pathogens in novel environments, causing dramatic crop losses and economic damage. Botryosphaeriaceae represents a massive fungal family, containing a huge number of plant pathogens, which are able to infect several hosts. Among them, Macrophomina phaseolina is a necrotrophic fungus, responsible for several plant diseases, including the soft stem rot of common bean, crown rot on strawberry and charcoal rot of several legumes. Here, Macrophomina, causing crown charcoal rot in chickpeas, was isolated from symptomatic plants in Cicerale (SA), Campania, South Italy. Morphological and molecular characterization was carried out and pathogenicity tests were performed. Phylogenetic analyses were performed comparing Macrophomina strains coming from different geographic areas and hosts. The experiments confirmed the pathogenicity of the isolate CREA OF 189.2 on chickpea, while host range highlighted the polyphagous nature of this strain; thus, symptoms were reported on lentils, common bean and cantaloupe. The multidisciplinary approach allows us to increase the knowledge about this emerging pathogen. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on Macrophomina phaseolina from chickpeas in Italy.
Evidence of Virulent Multi-Drug Resistant and Biofilm-Forming Listeria Species Isolated from Various Sources in South Africa
Authors: Kaptchouang Tchatchouang Christ-Donald , Fri Justine , Montso Peter Kotsoana , Amagliani Giulia , Schiavano Giuditta Fiorella , Manganyi Madira Coutlyne , Baldelli Giulia , Brandi Giorgio , Ateba Collins Njie
Published: July 2022

Listeriosis is a foodborne disease caused by Listeria monocytogenes species and is known to cause severe complications, particularly in pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Listeria species in food and water using both biochemical and species-specific PCR analysis. L. monocytogenes isolates were further screened for the presence of various antibiotic resistance, virulence, and biofilm-forming determinants profiles using phenotypic and genotypic assays. A total of 207 samples (composed of meat, milk, vegetables, and water) were collected and analyzed for presence of L. monocytogenes using species specific PCR analysis. Out of 267 presumptive isolates, 53 (19.85%) were confirmed as the Listeria species, and these comprised 26 L. monocytogenes, 3 L. innocua, 2 L. welshimeri, and 1 L. thailandensis. The remaining 21 Listeria species were classified as uncultured Listeria, based on 16SrRNA sequence analysis results. A large proportion (76% to 100%) of the L. monocytogenes were resistant to erythromycin (76%), clindamycin (100%), gentamicin (100%), tetracycline (100%), novobiocin (100%), oxacillin (100%), nalidixic acid (100%), and kanamycin (100%). The isolates revealed various multi-drug resistant (MDR) phenotypes, with E-DA-GM-T-NO-OX-NA-K being the most predominant MDR phenotypes observed in the L. monocytogenes isolates. The virulence genes prfA, hlyA, actA, and plcB were detected in 100%, 68%, 56%, and 20% of the isolates, respectively. In addition, L. monocytogenes isolates were capable of forming strong biofilm at 4 °C (%) after 24 to 72 h incubation periods, moderate for 8% isolates at 48 h and 20% at 72 h (p < 0.05). Moreover, at 25 °C and 37 °C, small proportions of the isolates displayed moderate (8–20%) biofilm formation after 48 and 72 h incubation periods. Biofilm formation genes flaA and luxS were detected in 72% and 56% of the isolates, respectively. These findings suggest that proper hygiene measures must be enforced along the food chain to ensure food safety.
Novel Antimicrobial Peptide “Octoprohibitin” against Multidrug Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Jayathilaka E. H. T. Thulshan , Rajapaksha Dinusha C. , Nikapitiya Chamilani , Lee Joeun , De Zoysa Mahanama , Whang Ilson
Published: July 2022

Octoprohibitin is a synthetic antimicrobial peptide (AMP), derived from the prohibitin-2 gene of Octopus minor. It showed substantial activity against multidrug resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 200 and 400 µg/mL, respectively. Time-kill kinetics and bacterial viability assays confirmed the concentration-dependent antibacterial activity of octoprohibitin against A. baumannii. The morphology and ultrastructure of A. baumannii were altered by treatment with octoprohibitin at the MIC and MBC levels. Furthermore, propidium iodide-fluorescein diacetate (PI-FDA) staining and 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA) staining of octoprohibitin-treated A. baumannii revealed membrane permeability alterations and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, respectively. Agarose gel retardation results confirmed the DNA-binding ability of octoprohibitin to the genomic DNA of A. baumannii. Furthermore, octoprohibitin showed concentration-dependent inhibition of biofilm formation and eradication. The minimum biofilm inhibition concentration (MBIC) and minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) of octoprohibitin were 1000 and 1460 µg/mL, respectively. Octoprohibitin produced no significant cytotoxicity up to 800 µg/mL, and no hemolysis was observed up to 400 µg/mL. Furthermore, in vivo analysis in an A. baumannii-infected zebrafish model confirmed the effective bactericidal activity of octoprohibitin with higher cumulative survival percent (46.6%) and fewer pathological signs. Histological analysis showed reduced alterations in the gut, kidney, and gill tissues in the octoprohibitin-treated group compared with those in the phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-treated group. In conclusion, our results suggest that octoprohibitin is a potential antibacterial and antibiofilm agent against MDR A. baumannii.
Pumpkin Seed Oil-Loaded Niosomes for Topical Application: 5α-Reductase Inhibitory, Anti-Inflammatory, and In Vivo Anti-Hair Loss Effects
Authors: Teeranachaideekul Veerawat , Parichatikanond Warisara , Junyaprasert Varaporn Buraphacheep , Morakul Boontida
Published: July 2022

Pumpkin seed oil (PSO)-loaded niosomes were prepared from Tween 20 and cholesterol by ethanol injection. Confocal microscopy showed better skin permeation and hair follicle accumulation of the niosomes compared to the PSO solution. The PSO-loaded niosomes inhibited 5α-reductase activity in DU-145 cells and hindered IL-6 activity in RAW 264.7 cells. These effects indicated the great potential of PSO-loaded niosomes to reduce hair loss. The hair scalp serum with PSO-loaded niosomes did not show irritation to reconstructed human skin. This formulation presented a significant decrease in the percentage of fallen hairs by 44.42% in the in vivo 60-second hair count experiment and a significant increase in the anagen to telogen (A/T) ratio (1.4-fold) in the TrichoScan® evaluation after 8 weeks of treatment compared to the initial conditions, indicating the promising efficacy of PSO-loaded niosomes as a natural alternative for anti-hair loss therapy.
Difelikefalin in the Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease-Associated Pruritus: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wala Kamila , Szepietowski Jacek C.
Published: July 2022

Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKD-aP) is a chronic condition that significantly reduces the quality of life of patients with end-stage renal disease. The etiology is not fully understood, but imbalance in the activity of the opioid pathways, including downregulation of the kappa-opioid receptor, may contribute to itching sensation. Difelikefalin is a selective, peripherally acting kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) agonist. Recently, difelikefalin has been approved as a first drug for the treatment of pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in adult hemodialysis patients. A systematic review of currently available clinical trials was performed to assess the efficacy and safety of difelikefalin in patients with uremic pruritus. A literature review was conducted in May 2022 based on the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The analyzed clinical trials showed that difelikefalin was effective in reducing pruritus in patients as assessed by the Worst Itching Intensity Numerical Rating Scale. Improvement in quality of life assessed on the basis of the Skindex score and the 5-D itch scale was also noticed. The most commonly reported side effects were mild and included nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and diarrhea. Due to its proven efficacy and good safety profile, difelikefalin is a promising drug for the treatment of pruritus in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Ciprofloxacin-Loaded Zein/Hyaluronic Acid Nanoparticles for Ocular Mucosa Delivery
Authors: Jacinto Telma A. , Oliveira Breno , Miguel Sónia P. , Ribeiro Maximiano P. , Coutinho Paula
Published: July 2022

Bacterial conjunctivitis is a worldwide problem that, if untreated, can lead to severe complications, such as visual impairment and blindness. Topical administration of ciprofloxacin is one of the most common treatments for this infection; however, topical therapeutic delivery to the eye is quite challenging. To tackle this, nanomedicine presents several advantages compared to conventional ophthalmic dosage forms. Herein, the flash nanoprecipitation technique was applied to produce zein and hyaluronic acid nanoparticles loaded with ciprofloxacin (ZeinCPX_HA NPs). ZeinCPX_HA NPs exhibited a hydrodynamic diameter of <200 nm and polydispersity index of <0.3, suitable for ocular drug delivery. In addition, the freeze-drying of the nanoparticles was achieved by using mannitol as a cryoprotectant, allowing their resuspension in water without modifying the physicochemical properties. Moreover, the biocompatibility of nanoparticles was confirmed by in vitro assays. Furthermore, a high encapsulation efficiency was achieved, and a release profile with an initial burst was followed by a prolonged release of ciprofloxacin up to 24 h. Overall, the obtained results suggest ZeinCPX_HA NPs as an alternative to the common topical dosage forms available on the market to treat conjunctivitis.