bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(T, S)-Based Single-Valued Neutrosophic Number Equivalence Matrix and Clustering Method
Authors: Mo Jiongmei , Huang Han-Liang
Published: January 2019

Fuzzy clustering is widely used in business, biology, geography, coding for the internet and more. A single-valued neutrosophic set is a generalized fuzzy set, and its clustering algorithm has attracted more and more attention. An equivalence matrix is a common tool in clustering algorithms. At present, there exist no results constructing a single-valued neutrosophic number equivalence matrix using t-norm and t-conorm. First, the concept of a ( T , S ) -based composition matrix is defined in this paper, where ( T , S ) is a dual pair of triangular modules. Then, a ( T , S ) -based single-valued neutrosophic number equivalence matrix is given. A λ -cutting matrix of single-valued neutrosophic number matrix is also introduced. Moreover, their related properties are studied. Finally, an example and comparison experiment are given to illustrate the effectiveness and superiority of our proposed clustering algorithm.
Generic Properties of Framed Rectifying Curves
Authors: Wang Yongqiao , Pei Donghe , Gao Ruimei
Published: January 2019

The position vectors of regular rectifying curves always lie in their rectifying planes. These curves were well investigated by B.Y.Chen. In this paper, the concept of framed rectifying curves is introduced, which may have singular points. We investigate the properties of framed rectifying curves and give a method for constructing framed rectifying curves. In addition, we reveal the relationships between framed rectifying curves and some special curves.
Preparation, Identification, and Activity Evaluation of Eight Antioxidant Peptides from Protein Hydrolysate of Hairtail (Trichiurus japonicas) Muscle
Authors: Yang Xiu-Rong , Zhang Lun , Ding Dong-Ge , Chi Chang-Feng , Wang Bin , Huo Jian-Cong
Published: January 2019

In this report, protein of hairtail (Trichiurus japonicas) muscle was separately hydrolyzed using five kinds of proteases (alcalase, trypsin, neutrase, pepsin, and papain), and the papain- and alcalase-hydrolysates showed higher 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals (DPPH•) and hydroxyl radical (HO•) scavenging activity than other three protease hydrolysates. Therefore, the protein hydrolysate of hairtail muscle (HTP) was prepared using binary-enzymes hydrolysis process (papain + alcalase). Subsequently, eight antioxidant peptides were purified from HTP using membrane ultrafiltration and chromatography technology, and their amino acid sequences were identified as Gln-Asn-Asp-Glu-Arg (TJP1), Lys-Ser (TJP2), Lys-Ala (TJP3), Ala-Lys-Gly (TJP4), Thr-Lys-Ala (TJP5), Val-Lys (TJP6), Met-Lys (TJP7), and Ile-Tyr-Gly (TJP8) with molecular weights of 660.3, 233.0, 217.1, 274.1, 318.0, 245.1, 277.0, and 351.0 Da, respectively. TJP3, TJP4, and TJP8 exhibited strong scavenging activities on DPPH• (EC50 0.902, 0.626, and 0.663 mg/mL, respectively), HO• (EC50 1.740, 2.378, and 2.498 mg/mL, respectively), superoxide anion radical (EC50 2.082, 2.538, and 1.355 mg/mL, respectively), and 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical (EC50 1.652, 0.831, and 0.586 mg/mL, respectively). Moreover, TJP3, TJP4, and TJP8 showed higher reducing power and inhibiting ability on lipid peroxidation in a linoleic acid model system. These results suggested that eight isolated peptides (TJP1 to TJP8), especially TJP3, TJP4, and TJP8 might serve as potential antioxidants applied in the pharmaceutical and health food industries.
Inflammatory Cytokine and Chemokine Patterns in Paediatric Patients with Suspected Serious Bacterial Infection
Authors: Rautiainen Linda , Pavare Jana , Grope Ilze , Tretjakovs Peteris , Gardovska Dace
Published: January 2019

Background and objectives: In children, acute infection is the most common cause of visits to the emergency department. Although most of them are self-limiting, mortality due to severe bacterial infections (SBI) in developed countries is still high. When the risk of serious bacterial infection is too high to ignore, yet too low to justify admission and hospital observation, clinicians try to improve diagnostic accuracy by performing various laboratory tests. The aim of the study was to investigate whether an early inflammatory cytokine and chemokine panel can add information in diagnostics of SBI and assessment of efficacy of early therapies in hospitalized children with fever. Methods: This study included 51 children with febrile infections that were admitted to the emergency department (ED). Clinical examination and microbiological and radiological tests were used as reference standards for the definition of SBI. Study population was categorized into two groups: (1) patients with SBI (n = 21); (2) patients without SBI (n = 30). Inflammatory cytokine and chemokine panels were analyzed from the first routine blood samples at hospital admission and after 24 h. Results: Out of 12 cytokines and chemokines, only Eotaxin and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) had statistically significant differences between groups at the time of inclusion. Receiver operator characteristic analysis to predict SBI showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.679 for G-CSF. Conclusions: Analysis of inflammatory cytokine profiles may provide additional information in early diagnostics of SBI.
Ceramic-Based Composite Membrane with a Porous Network Surface Featuring a Highly Stable Flux for Drinking Water Purification
Authors: Zhu Li , Rakesh Kadalipura Puttaswamy , Xu Man , Dong Yingchao
Published: January 2019

Highly efficient drinking water purification is still an important challenge for membrane techniques where high flux, high rejection, and low fouling are highly emphasized. In the present work, a porous network surface with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was in situ constructed on hierarchically-structured mullite ceramic membranes. Interestingly, such a composite structure was demonstrated to effectively remove bacteria from drinking water with a highly stable long-term flux. After membrane structure characterizations, separation performance, such as flux and rejection, was assessed by the purification of bacteria-contaminated drinking water. The results confirmed that the mullite-CNT composite membrane claimed a complete removal of two model bacteria (100% rejection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)), driven by a trans-membrane pressure of 0.1 MPa, where a surface sieving mechanism was dominant. A highly stable long-term flux for the 24 h filtration process was achieved, which can be attributed to the porous membrane surface with a special randomly-oriented CNTs network structure, featuring very high three-dimensional open porosity, allowing water to rapidly transport. The bacteria were only trapped on the CNTs network surface via surface filtration, without pore plugging, endowing the mullite-CNT membrane with unprecedentedly low fouling propensity to keep high flux with long-term operation time.
Effect of Chemical Structure on the Performance of Sulfonated Poly(aryl ether sulfone) Composite Nanofiltration Membranes
Authors: Zhang Shouhai , Guan Shanshan , Liu Chengde , Wang Zhenlin , Wang Danhui , Jian Xigao
Published: January 2019

This paper discusses the effect of the chemical structure of sulfonated poly(aryl ether sulfone) on the performance of composite nanofiltration membranes. The composite nanofiltration membranes were fabricated by coating sulfonated poly(aryl ether sulfone) solution onto the top surface of poly(phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone) support membranes. Three kinds of sulfonated poly(aryl ether sulfone)s with different amounts of phthalazinone moieties, namely, sulfonated poly(phthalazinone ether sulfone) (SPPES), sulfonated poly(phthalazinone biphenyl ether sulfone) (SPPBES), and sulfonated poly(phthalazinone hydroquinone ether sulfone)s (SPPHES), were used as coating materials. The solvents used in preparing the coating solution were investigated and optimized. The separation properties, thermal stability, and chlorine resistance of composite membranes were determined. The structures and morphologies of membranes were characterized with FTIR and SEM, respectively. The membrane prepared from SPPES with more phthalazinone moiety groups showed high water flux and salt rejection. The salt rejection of composite membranes followed the order SPPES > SPPHES > SPPBES. The rejection of the three composite membranes decreased slightly with the solution temperature rising from 20 to 90 °C, while the composite membrane with SPPES as the active layer showed a higher increase in flux than others. The results indicate that SPPES composite membranes show better thermal stability than others.
Performance of Void-Free Electrospun SPEEK/Cloisite as a Function of Degree of Dispersion State on Nanocomposite Proton Exchange Membrane for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Application
Authors: Awang Nuha , Jaafar Juhana , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Othman Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan , Rahman Mukhlis A.
Published: January 2019

One of the main problems in direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) application is methanol crossover. In order to solve the problem, an exfoliated void-free electrospun Sulfonated Poly(Ether Ether Ketone) (SPEEK)/cloisite nanocomposite membrane was developed. The membrane was prepared by immersing electrospun SPEEK/cloisite fiber mats onto incomplete solidified SPEEK polymer matrix. A well dispersed and reduction size of cloisite particles that ranges from 0.29–0.39 µm was observed by using Scanning Electron Microscopy Analysis (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). The effect of the morphology of the composite membrane in terms of degree of dispersion state of the Cloisite on the membrane performance was discussed. SP/e-spunCL15 with fully exfoliated structure exhibited the highest performance as compared to other tested membranes and Nafion® 115 with current density of 1042.2 mAcm−2 and power density of 1.18 mWcm−2. Improved morphological, dimensional change properties, and performance assigned to well-dispersed cloisite15A induced by the electrospinning technique make the membranes more efficient for direct methanol fuel cell applications.
Assessing the Condition of Gas Turbine Rotor Blades with the Optoelectronic and Thermographic Methods
Authors: Bogdan Mariusz , Błachnio Józef , Kułaszka Artur , Derlatka Marcin
Published: January 2019

Gas turbines and their blades in particular might be damaged in the course of the aviation turbojet engine operation process. The degradation process of the blade microstructure is most evident from the change in the colour of its surface. This is assessed using the optoelectronic method. The article presents the concept of non-destructive methods, which are used to assess the degree of degradation of the alloy of a gas turbine blade. The proposed optoelectronic method is the basic method for the preliminary determination of color changes in the surface. Appropriate videoscopes or video-analyzers, capable of recording a test object in various electromagnetic wave ranges (infrared radiation, visible range), are used for this purpose. These preliminary results of the diagnosis make it possible to infer further studies of the blade. For accurate investigation of the state of the alloy microstructure, a non-destructive thermographic method (xenon flash pulsed thermography) was used. The results of studies of the degradation of the microstructure with the use of non-destructive methods were verified through the use of metallographic investigations. Appropriate metallographic specimens were created in order to recognize phase γ′ degradation (i.e., the phase strengthening the blade alloy). The results of the presented research allowed for an in-depth assessment of the degree of microstructure degradation of operated blades.
The Effect of Isothermal Multi-Directional Forging on the Grain Structure, Superplasticity, and Mechanical Properties of the Conventional Al–Mg-Based Alloy
Authors: Mikhaylovskaya Anastasia V. , Kotov Anton D. , Kishchik Mikhail S. , Prosviryakov Alexey S. , Portnoy Vladimir K.
Published: January 2019

The current study observed a grain structure evolution in the central part and periphery of the sample of an Al–Mg–Mn-based alloy during isothermal multidirectional forging (IMF) at 350 °C with a cumulative strain of 2.1–6.3 and a strain per pass of 0.7. A bimodal grain size distribution with areas of fine and coarse grains was observed after IMF and subsequent annealing. The grain structure, mechanical properties, and superplastic behavior of the samples subjected to IMF with a cumulative strain of 6.3 and the samples exposed to IMF with subsequent cold rolling were compared to the samples exposed to a simple thermo-mechanical treatment. The micro-shear bands were formed inside original grains after the first three passes. The fraction of recrystallized grains increased and the mean size decreased with an increasing cumulative strain from 2.1 to 6.3. Significant improvements of mechanical properties and superplasticity were observed due to the formation of a homogenous fine grain structure 4.8 µm in size after treatment including IMF and subsequent cold rolling.
Chiroptical Symmetry Analysis: Exciton Chirality-Based Formulae to Understand the Chiroptical Responses of Cn and Dn Symmetric Systems
Authors: Castro-Fernández Silvia , Peña-Gallego Ángeles , Mosquera Ricardo A. , Alonso-Gómez José Lorenzo
Published: January 2019

The high sensitivity of chiroptical responses to conformational changes and supramolecular interactions has prompted an increasing interest in the development of chiroptical applications. However, prediction of and understanding the chiroptical responses of the necessary large systems may not be affordable for calculations at high levels of theory. In order to facilitate the development of chiroptical applications, methodologies capable of evaluating the chiroptical responses of large systems are necessary. The exciton chirality method has been extensively used for the interaction between two independent chromophores through the Davydov model. For systems presenting C2 or D2 symmetry, one can get the same results by applying the selection rules. In the present article, the analysis of the selection rules for systems with symmetries Cn and Dn with n = 3 and 4 is used to uncover the origin of their chiroptical responses. We foresee that the use of the Chiroptical Symmetry Analysis (CSA) for systems presenting the symmetries explored herein, as well as for systems presenting higher symmetries will serve as a useful tool for the development of chiroptical applications.
Cytotoxic Effects of Compounds Isolated from Ricinodendron heudelotii
Authors: Yakubu Omolara F. , Adebayo Abiodun H. , Dokunmu Titilope M. , Zhang Ying-Jun , Iweala Emeka E.J.
Published: January 2019

This study was designed to explore the in vitro anticancer effects of the bioactive compounds isolated from Ricinodendron heudelotii on selected cancer cell lines. The leaves of the plant were extracted with ethanol and partitioned in sequence with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol. The ethyl acetate fraction was phytochemically studied using thin layer chromatography (TLC) and column chromatography (CC). Structural elucidation of pure compounds obtained from the ethyl acetate fraction was done using mass spectra, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR analysis. The isolated compounds were subsequently screened using five different cancer cell lines: HL-60, SMMC-7721, A-549, MCF-7, SW-480, and normal lung epithelial cell line, BEAS-2B, to assess their cytotoxic effects. Nine compounds were isolated and structurally elucidated as gallic acid, gallic acid ethyl ester, corilagin, quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside, myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside, 1,4,6-tri-O-galloyl glucose, 3,4,6-tri-O-galloyl glucose, 1,2,6-tri-O-galloyl glucose, and 4,6-di-O-galloyl glucose. Corilagin exhibited the most cytotoxic activity with an IC50 value of 33.18 μg/mL against MCF-7 cells, which were comparable to cisplatin with an IC50 value of 27.43 µg/mL. The result suggests that corilagin isolated from R. heudelotii has the potential to be developed as an effective therapeutic agent against the growth of breast cancer cells.
Responses of HSP70 Gene to Vibrio parahaemolyticus Infection and Thermal Stress and Its Transcriptional Regulation Analysis in Haliotis diversicolor
Authors: Fang Zhiqiang , Sun Yulong , Zhang Xin , Wang Guodong , Li Yuting , Wang Yilei , Zhang Ziping
Published: January 2019

Heat-shock protein 70 (HSP70) is a molecular chaperone that plays critical roles in cell protein folding and metabolism, which helps to protect cells from unfavorable environmental stress. Haliotis diversicolor is one of the most important economic breeding species in the coastal provinces of south China. To date, the expression and transcriptional regulation of HSP70 in Haliotis diversicolor (HdHSP70) has not been well characterized. In this study, the expression levels of HdHSP70 gene in different tissues and different stress conditions were detected. The results showed that the HdHSP70 gene was ubiquitously expressed in sampled tissues and was the highest in hepatopancreas, followed by hemocytes. In hepatopancreas and hemocytes, the HdHSP70 gene was significantly up-regulated by Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection, thermal stress, and combined stress (Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection and thermal stress combination), indicating that HdHSP70 is involved in the stress response and the regulation of innate immunity. Furthermore, a 2383 bp of 5′-flanking region sequence of the HdHSP70 gene was cloned, and it contains a presumed core promoter region, a CpG island, a (TG)39 simple sequence repeat (SSR), and many potential transcription factor binding sites. The activity of HdHSP70 promoter was evaluated by driving the expression of luciferase gene in HEK293FT cells. A series of experimental results indicated that the core promoter region is located between −189 bp and +46 bp, and high-temperature stress can increase the activity of HdHSP70 promoter. Sequence-consecutive deletions of the luciferase reporter gene in HEK293FT cells revealed two possible promoter activity regions. To further identify the binding site of the key transcription factor in the two regions, two expression vectors with site-directed mutation were constructed. The results showed that the transcriptional activity of NF-1 site-directed mutation was significantly increased (p < 0.05), whereas the transcriptional activity of NF-κB site-directed mutation was significantly reduced. These results suggest that NF-1 and NF-κB may be two important transcription factors that regulate the expression of HdHSP70 gene.
Electrospun PAN/MAPbI3 Composite Fibers for Flexible and Broadband Photodetectors
Authors: Li Gaolin , Jiang Zhenhua , Wang Weilin , Chu Zengyong , Zhang Ye , Wang Chunhua
Published: January 2019

Methylammonium lead triiodide perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3, MAPbI3) has been emerging as an easy processing and benign defect material for optoelectronic devices. Fiber-like perovskite materials are especially in demand for flexible applications. Here we report on a kind of polyacrylonitrile (PAN)/MAPbI3 composite fiber, which was electrospun from the mixing solution of PAN and MAPbI3. The absorption edge and optical gap of the PAN/MAPbI3 composite fibers can be easily tuned as the ratio of the perovskite changes. Both the moisture stability and the thermal stability of the perovskite are improved with the protection of PAN polymers. Flexible photodetectors based on this perovskite fiber were fabricated and analyzed. The photoresponse of the detector was highly sensitive to broadband visible light, and reached 6.5 μA W−1 at 700 nm with a voltage bias of 10 V. Compared with pure MAPbI3 photodetectors, this composite fiber photodetector has much-improved stability and flexibility, which can even be used to detect motion-related angular changes.
Use of Lipid Nanocarriers to Improve Oral Delivery of Vitamins
Authors: Hsu Ching-Yun , Wang Pei-Wen , Alalaiwe Ahmed , Lin Zih-Chan , Fang Jia-You
Published: January 2019

The chemical environment and enzymes in the gastrointestinal (GI) membrane limit the oral absorption of some vitamins. The GI epithelium also contributes to the poor permeability of numerous antioxidant agents. Thus, lipophilic vitamins do not readily dissolve in the GI tract, and therefore they have low bioavailability. Nanomedicine has the potential to improve the delivery efficiency of oral vitamins. In particular, the use of lipid nanocarriers for certain vitamins that are administered orally can provide improved solubility, chemical stability, epithelium permeability and bioavailability, half-life, nidus targeting, and fewer adverse effects. These lipid nanocarriers include self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDSs), nanoemulsions, microemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs). The use of nontoxic excipients and sophisticated material engineering of lipid nanosystems allows for control of the physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles and improved GI permeation via mucosal or lymphatic transport. In this review, we highlight recent progress in the development of lipid nanocarriers for vitamin delivery. In addition, the same lipid nanocarriers used for vitamins may also be effective as carriers of vitamin derivatives, and therefore enhance their oral bioavailability. One example is the incorporation of d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) as the emulsifier in lipid nanocarriers to increase the solubility and inhibit P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux. We also survey the concepts and discuss the mechanisms of nanomedical techniques that are used to develop vitamin-loaded nanocarriers.
Narrative Review of Hydration and Selected Health Outcomes in the General Population
Authors: Liska DeAnn , Mah Eunice , Brisbois Tristin , Barrios Pamela L. , Baker Lindsay B. , Spriet Lawrence L.
Published: January 2019

Although adequate hydration is essential for health, little attention has been paid to the effects of hydration among the generally healthy population. This narrative review presents the state of the science on the role of hydration in health in the general population, specifically in skin health, neurological function (i.e., cognition, mood, and headache), gastrointestinal and renal functions, and body weight and composition. There is a growing body of evidence that supports the importance of adequate hydration in maintaining proper health, especially with regard to cognition, kidney stone risk, and weight management. However, the evidence is largely associative and lacks consistency, and the number of randomized trials is limited. Additionally, there are major gaps in knowledge related to health outcomes due to small variations in hydration status, the influence of sex and sex hormones, and age, especially in older adults and children.
Assessment of Dietary Intake and Nutrient Gaps, and Development of Food-Based Recommendations, among Pregnant and Lactating Women in Zinder, Niger: An Optifood Linear Programming Analysis
Authors: Wessells K. Ryan , Young Rebecca R. , Ferguson Elaine L. , Ouédraogo Césaire T. , Faye M. Thierno , Hess Sonja Y.
Published: January 2019

Pregnant and lactating women in rural Niger are at high risk for inadequate intakes of multiple micronutrients. Thus, 24 h dietary recalls were conducted and analyzed for dietary intakes in this population (n = 202). Using linear programming analyses, micronutrient gaps in women’s diets were identified, food-based recommendations (FBR) to improve dietary micronutrient adequacy were developed, and various supplementation strategies were modelled. Energy intakes were below estimated requirements, and, for most micronutrients, >50% of women were at risk of inadequate intakes. Linear programming analyses indicated it would be difficult to select a diet that achieved recommended dietary allowances for all but three (vitamin B6, iron and zinc) of 11 modeled micronutrients. Consumption of one additional meal per day, and adherence to the selected FBR (daily consumption of dark green leafy vegetables, fermented milk, millet, pulses, and vitamin A fortified oil), would result in a low percentage of women at risk of inadequate intakes for eight modeled micronutrients (vitamin A, riboflavin, thiamin, B6, folate, iron, zinc, and calcium). Because the promotion of realistic FBRs likely will not ensure that a low percentage of women are at risk of inadequate intakes for all modeled micronutrients, multiple micronutrient supplementation or provision of nutrient-dense foods should be prioritized.
Effect of Genetically Low 25-Hydroxyvitamin D on Mortality Risk: Mendelian Randomization Analysis in 3 Large European Cohorts
Authors: Aspelund Thor , Grübler Martin R. , Smith Albert V. , Gudmundsson Elias F. , Keppel Martin , Cotch Mary Frances , Harris Tamara B. , Jorde Rolf , Grimnes Guri , Joakimsen Ragnar , Schirmer Henrik , Wilsgaard Tom , Mathiesen Ellisiv B. , Njølstad Inger , Løchen Maja-Lisa , März Winfried , Kleber Marcus E. , Tomaschitz Andreas , Grove-Laugesen Diana , Rejnmark Lars , Swart Karin M. A. , Brouwer Ingeborg A. , Lips Paul , Van Schoor Natasja M. , Sempos Christopher T. , Durazo-Arvizu Ramón A. , Škrabáková Zuzana , Dowling Kirsten G. , Cashman Kevin D. , Kiely Mairead , Pilz Stefan , Gudnason Vilmundur , Eiriksdottir Gudny
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study was to determine if increased mortality associated with low levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) reflects a causal relationship by using a Mendelian randomisation (MR) approach with genetic variants in the vitamin D synthesis pathway. Individual participant data from three European cohorts were harmonized with standardization of 25(OH)D according to the Vitamin D Standardization Program. Most relevant single nucleotide polymorphisms of the genes CYP2R1 (rs12794714, rs10741657) and DHCR7/NADSYN1 (rs12785878, rs11234027), were combined in two allelic scores. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used with the ratio estimator and the delta method for calculating the hazards ratio (HR) and standard error of genetically determined 25(OH)D effect on all-cause mortality. We included 10,501 participants (50.1% females, 67.1±10.1 years) of whom 4003 died during a median follow-up of 10.4 years. The observed adjusted HR for all-cause mortality per decrease in 25(OH)D by 20 nmol/L was 1.20 (95% CI: 1.15–1.25). The HR per 20 nmol/L decrease in genetically determined 25(OH)D was 1.32 (95% CI: 0.80–2.24) and 1.35 (95% CI of 0.81 to 2.37) based on the two scores. In conclusion, the results of this MR study in a combined sample from three European cohort studies provide further support for a causal relationship between vitamin D deficiency and increased all-cause mortality. However, as the current study, even with ~10,000 participants, was underpowered for the study of the effect of the allele score on mortality, larger studies on genetics and mortality are needed to improve the precision.
Stabilization of Vitamin D in Pea Protein Isolate Nanoemulsions Increases Its Bioefficacy in Rats
Authors: Almajwal Ali M. , Abulmeaty Mahmoud M. A. , Feng Hao , Alruwaili Nawaf W. , Dominguez-Uscanga Astrid , Andrade Juan E. , Razak Suhail , ElSadek Mohamed F.
Published: January 2019

Micronutrient delivery formulations based on nanoemulsions can enhance the absorption of nutrients and bioactives, and thus, are of great potential for food fortification and supplementation strategies. The aim was to evaluate the bioefficacy of vitamin D (VitD) encapsulated in nanoemulsions developed by sonication and pH-shifting of pea protein isolate (PPI) in restoring VitD status in VitD-deficient rats. Weaned male albino rats (n = 35) were fed either normal diet AIN-93G (VitD 1000 IU/kg) (control group; n = 7) or a VitD-deficient diet (<50 IU/kg) for six weeks (VitD-deficient group; n = 28). VitD-deficient rats were divided into four subgroups (n = 7/group). Nano-VitD and Oil-VitD groups received a dose of VitD (81 µg) dispersed in either PPI-nanoemulsions or in canola oil, respectively, every other day for one week. Their control groups, Nano-control and Oil-control, received the respective delivery vehicles without VitD. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)VitD], parathyroid hormone (PTH), Ca, P, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were measured. After one week of treatment, the VitD-deficient rats consuming Nano-VitD recovered from Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) as compared against baseline and had serum 25(OH)VitD higher than the Nano-control. Enhancement in VitD status was followed with expected changes in serum PTH, Ca, P, and ALP levels, as compared against the controls. Stabilization of VitD within PPI-based nanoemulsions enhances its absorption and restores its status and biomarkers of bone resorption in VitD-deficient rats.
Beneficial Effects of Vitamin D Treatment in an Obese Mouse Model of Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis
Authors: Jahn Daniel , Dorbath Donata , Kircher Stefan , Nier Anika , Bergheim Ina , Lenaerts Kaatje , Hermanns Heike M. , Geier Andreas
Published: January 2019

Serum vitamin D levels negatively correlate with obesity and associated disorders such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, the mechanisms linking low vitamin D (VD) status to disease progression are not completely understood. In this study, we analyzed the effect of VD treatment on NASH in mice. C57BL6/J mice were fed a high-fat/high-sugar diet (HFSD) containing low amounts of VD for 16 weeks to induce obesity, NASH and liver fibrosis. The effects of preventive and interventional VD treatment were studied on the level of liver histology and hepatic/intestinal gene expression. Interestingly, preventive and to a lesser extent also interventional VD treatment resulted in improvements of liver histology. This included a significant decrease of steatosis, a trend towards lower non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity score and a slight non-significant decrease of fibrosis in the preventive treatment group. In line with these changes, preventive VD treatment reduced the hepatic expression of lipogenic, inflammatory and pro-fibrotic genes. Notably, these beneficial effects occurred in conjunction with a reduction of intestinal inflammation. Together, our observations suggest that timely initiation of VD supplementation (preventive vs. interventional) is a critical determinant of treatment outcome in NASH. In the applied animal model, the improvements of liver histology occurred in conjunction with reduced inflammation in the gut, suggesting a potential relevance of vitamin D as a therapeutic agent acting on the gut–liver axis.
Affordability of Food and Beverages in Mexico between 1994 and 2016
Authors: Colchero M. Arantxa , Guerrero-López Carlos M. , Molina Mariana , Unar-Munguía Mishel
Published: January 2019

We estimated the affordability of food and beverages by energy density and nutrient quality in Mexico and tested for differential trends in affordability over time and by income quintile. We used the National Income and Expenditures Survey from 1994 to 2016, and information on the caloric and nutrient content of food and beverages from Mexican food composition tables. We estimated food energy density (kcal/kg) and nutrient quality of food and beverages using the nutrient-rich food index (NRFI). Affordability of food and beverages was defined as household monthly income needed to purchase 1000 kcal. The affordability index was expressed by quintiles of energy density and quintiles of the NRFI and by income quintile over time. We found that more energy-dense foods and food and beverages with lower nutrient quality were more affordable compared to healthier food and beverages. Food categories with lower energy density and a higher NRFI became less affordable over time for most income groups, but the burden was higher for lower-income households. A comprehensive national strategy should be implemented to make healthier options more affordable and discretional foods and beverages with lower nutrient quality less affordable.
Appetite and Gastrointestinal Hormone Response to a Gluten-Free Meal in Patients with Coeliac Disease
Authors: Vitaglione Paola , Zingone Fabiana , Virgilio Nicolina , Ciacci Carolina
Published: January 2019

Coeliac disease (CeD) is an immune-mediated inflammatory enteropathy triggered by the ingestion of gluten in genetically susceptible individuals. Gastrointestinal (GI) hormone response related to appetite and glucose metabolism is still under-investigated in patients with CeD. This study aimed at shedding light on the appetite sensations, glycaemia and hormone response induced by a complex meal in patients with coeliac disease. Twenty-two women with CeD, nine at the diagnosis (CeDD) and thirteen under a gluten-free diet (CeDGF), and ten healthy subjects (HS) were enrolled in a single day intervention study. All subjects consumed a test meal, recorded their appetite sensations, and blood was collected over three hours after meal consumption. The study found a lower decrease in hunger in CeDD compared to CeDGF and HS after meal intake. Data showed no difference of fullness and satiety between the groups. CeDD had lower insulin and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) than CeDGF and HS. Both CeDD and CeDGF experienced a lower post-prandial response of glucose than HS. Data suggested that patients with CeD have an impaired glucose absorption after more than 12 months of gluten-free diet. Postprandial GIP may play a significant role in appetite cues and insulin response to a complex meal.
Staphylococcus aureus Superantigen-Like Protein SSL1: A Toxic Protease
Authors: Tang Aihua , Caballero Armando , Bierdeman Michael , Marquart Mary , Foster Timothy , Monk Ian , O’Callaghan Richard
Published: January 2019

Staphylococcus aureus is a major cause of corneal infections that can cause reduced vision, even blindness. Secreted toxins cause tissue damage and inflammation resulting in scars that lead to vision loss. Identifying tissue damaging proteins is a prerequisite to limiting these harmful reactions. The present study characterized a previously unrecognized S. aureus toxin. This secreted toxin was purified from strain Newman ΔhlaΔhlg, the N-terminal sequence determined, the gene cloned, and the purified recombinant protein was tested in the rabbit cornea. The virulence of a toxin deletion mutant was compared to its parent and the mutant after gene restoration (rescue strain). The toxin (23 kDa) had an N-terminal sequence matching the Newman superantigen-like protein SSL1. An SSL1 homodimer (46 kDa) had proteolytic activity as demonstrated by zymography and cleavage of a synthetic substrate, collagens, and cytokines (IL-17A, IFN-γ, and IL-8); the protease was susceptible to serine protease inhibitors. As compared to the parent and rescue strains, the ssl1 mutant had significantly reduced virulence, but not reduced bacterial growth, in vivo. The ocular isolates tested had the ssl1 gene, with allele type 2 being the predominant type. SSL1 is a protease with corneal virulence and activity on host defense and structural proteins.
Iron Homeostasis in the Lungs—A Balance between Health and Disease
Authors: Neves Joana , Haider Thomas , Gassmann Max , Muckenthaler Martina U.
Published: January 2019

A strong mechanistic link between the regulation of iron homeostasis and oxygen sensing is evident in the lung, where both systems must be properly controlled to maintain lung function. Imbalances in pulmonary iron homeostasis are frequently associated with respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and with lung cancer. However, the underlying mechanisms causing alterations in iron levels and the involvement of iron in the development of lung disorders are incompletely understood. Here, we review current knowledge about the regulation of pulmonary iron homeostasis, its functional importance, and the link between dysregulated iron levels and lung diseases. Gaining greater knowledge on how iron contributes to the pathogenesis of these diseases holds promise for future iron-related therapeutic strategies.
Aptamer-Based Diagnostics and Therapeutics
Authors: Shigdar Sarah
Published: January 2019

Aptamers were first described almost 30 years ago, with the publication of three separate research papers describing how a randomized library of RNA sequences could be incubated with a target to find a sequence that specifically binds via van der Waals forces, covalent and hydrogen bonding, and not Watson Crick base pairing [...]
Radioligands for Tropomyosin Receptor Kinase (Trk) Positron Emission Tomography Imaging
Authors: Schirrmacher Ralf , Bailey Justin J. , Mossine Andrew V. , Scott Peter J. H. , Kaiser Lena , Bartenstein Peter , Lindner Simon , Kaplan David R. , Kostikov Alexey , Fricker Gert , Mahringer Anne , Rosa-Neto Pedro , Schirrmacher Esther , Wängler Carmen , Wängler Björn , Thiel Alexander , Soucy Jean-Paul , Bernard-Gauthier Vadim
Published: January 2019

The tropomyosin receptor kinases family (TrkA, TrkB, and TrkC) supports neuronal growth, survival, and differentiation during development, adult life, and aging. TrkA/B/C downregulation is a prominent hallmark of various neurological disorders including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Abnormally expressed or overexpressed full-length or oncogenic fusion TrkA/B/C proteins were shown to drive tumorigenesis in a variety of neurogenic and non-neurogenic human cancers and are currently the focus of intensive clinical research. Neurologic and oncologic studies of the spatiotemporal alterations in TrkA/B/C expression and density and the determination of target engagement of emerging antineoplastic clinical inhibitors in normal and diseased tissue are crucially needed but have remained largely unexplored due to the lack of suitable non-invasive probes. Here, we review the recent development of carbon-11- and fluorine-18-labeled positron emission tomography (PET) radioligands based on specifically designed small molecule kinase catalytic domain-binding inhibitors of TrkA/B/C. Basic developments in medicinal chemistry, radiolabeling and translational PET imaging in multiple species including humans are highlighted.
Optimization of the Factors Affecting the Absorption of Vardenafil from Oral Disintegrating Tablets: A Clinical Pharmacokinetic Investigation
Authors: Al-Gethmy Hytham A. , Fahmy Usama A. , Alhakamy Nabil A. , Ahmed Osama A. A. , El-Say Khalid M.
Published: January 2019

Because of poor solubility and considerable metabolism, vardenafil (VRD) bioavailability is 15%. To overcome this obstacle, this study aimed to increase the solubility, hasten the onset of action, and mask the unpleasant taste of VRD utilizing β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and formulation of the inclusion complex as oral disintegrating tablets (ODTs). The solubility of the obtained complexes in various ratios has been studied. A Box–Behnken design (BBD) was utilized to investigate the influence of excipients on the quality of ODTs. The solubility of VRD was improved at 1:2 drug:β-CD ratio. The formulated VRD-ODTs exhibited satisfying results regarding the hardness and disintegration time. In addition, in vivo taste masking and disintegration time showed improved results, after placing the tablets in the oral cavity of the healthy volunteers. When compared with the marketed tablets, the pharmacokinetic parameters for the optimized VRD-ODTs exhibited a significant improvement with p < 0.05 in the maximum plasma concentration and reduction in the time needed to reach this concentration. Finally, the optimized VRD-ODTs exhibited increased oral absorption of VRD and subsequent decrease in the time of onset of clinical effect and masking the unpleasant taste.
Nanotoxicologic Effects of PLGA Nanoparticles Formulated with a Cell-Penetrating Peptide: Searching for a Safe pDNA Delivery System for the Lungs
Authors: Gomes dos Reis Larissa , Lee Wing-Hin , Svolos Maree , Moir Lyn Margaret , Jaber Rima , Windhab Norbert , Young Paul Michael , Traini Daniela
Published: January 2019

The use of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) in combination with nanoparticles (NPs) shows great potential for intracellular delivery of DNA. Currently, its application is limited due to the potential toxicity and unknown long-term side effects. In this study NPs prepared using a biodegradable polymer, poly(lactic–co–glycolic acid (PLGA) in association with a CPP, was assessed on two lung epithelial cell lines (adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cells (A549) and normal bronchial epithelial cells (Beas-2B cells)). Addition of CPP was essential for intracellular internalization. No effects were observed on the mitochondrial activity and membrane integrity. Cells exposed to the NPs–DNA–CPP showed low inflammatory response, low levels of apoptosis and no activation of caspase-3. Increase in necrotic cells (between 10%–15%) after 24 h of incubation and increase in autophagy, induced by NPs–DNA–CPP, are likely to be related to the lysosomal escape mechanism. Although oxidative stress is one of the main toxic mechanisms of NPs, NPs–DNA–CPP showed decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production on Beas-2B cells, with potential antioxidant effect of CPP and no effect on A549 cells. This NP system appears to be safe for intracellular delivery of plasmid DNA to the lung epithelial cells. Further investigations should be conducted in other lung-related systems to better understand its potential effects on the lungs.
Guard Cell Membrane Anion Transport Systems and Their Regulatory Components: An Elaborate Mechanism Controlling Stress-Induced Stomatal Closure
Authors: Saito Shunya , Uozumi Nobuyuki
Published: January 2019

When plants are exposed to drastic environmental changes such as drought, salt or bacterial invasion, rapid stomatal movement confers tolerance to these stresses. This process involves a variety of guard cell expressed ion channels and their complex regulation network. Inward K+ channels mainly function in stomatal opening. On the other hand, guard cell anion channels play a crucial role in the closing of stomata, which is vital in terms of preventing water loss and bacterial entrance. Massive progress has been made on the research of these anion channels in the last decade. In this review, we focus on the function and regulation of Arabidopsis guard cell anion channels. Starting from SLAC1, a main contributor of stomatal closure, members of SLAHs (SLAC1 homologues), AtNRTs (Nitrate transporters), AtALMTs (Aluminum-activated malate transporters), ABC transporters, AtCLCs (Chloride channels), DTXs (Detoxification efflux carriers), SULTRs (Sulfate transporters), and their regulator components are reviewed. These membrane transport systems are the keys to maintaining cellular ion homeostasis against fluctuating external circumstances.
Fabrication of Active Polymer Optical Fibers by Solution Doping and Their Characterization
Authors: Ayesta Igor , Azkune Mikel , Arrospide Eneko , Arrue Jon , Illarramendi María , Durana Gaizka , Zubia Joseba
Published: January 2019

This paper employs the solution-doping technique for the fabrication of active polymer optical fibers (POFs), in which the dopant molecules are directly incorporated into the core of non-doped uncladded fibers. Firstly, we characterize the insertion of a solution of rhodamine B and methanol into the core of the fiber samples at different temperatures, and we show that better optical characteristics, especially in the attenuation coefficient, are achieved at lower temperatures. Moreover, we also analyze the dependence of the emission features of doped fibers on both the propagation distance and the excitation time. Some of these features and the corresponding ones reported in the literature for typical active POFs doped with the same dopant are quantitatively similar among them. This applies to the spectral location of the absorption and the emission bands, the spectral displacement with propagation distance, and the linear attenuation coefficient. The samples prepared in the way described in this work present higher photostability than typical samples reported in the literature, which are prepared in different ways.
The Optimization of Process Parameters and Characterization of High-Performance CF/PEEK Composites Prepared by Flexible CF/PEEK Plain Weave Fabrics
Authors: Lu Chunrui , Xu Nuo , Zheng Ting , Zhang Xin , Lv Hanxiong , Lu Xue , Xiao Lin , Zhang Dongxing
Published: January 2019

Continuous carbon fiber (CF)-reinforced poly (ether ether ketone) (PEEK) composites have excellent mechanical properties, but their processing techniques are limited. Therefore, we promoted a braiding method based on the hybrid fiber method by hot-compacting CF/PEEK plain weave fabrics to solve the problem of difficult wetting between CF and PEEK. Four parameters—melting temperature, molding pressure, crystallization temperature and the resin contents—were investigated for optimized fabrication. After studying the melting range, thermal stability and the contact angle of PEEK under different temperatures, the melting temperature was set at 370 °C. An ultra-depth-of-field 3D microscope was adopted to investigate the effects of molding pressure in the melting stage. The tensile strength or modulus along and perpendicular to the carbon fiber direction and crystallinity under different crystallization temperatures were analyzed. As a result, the sample crystalized at 300 °C showed an excellent tensile properties and crystallinity. The increased mass ratio of PEEK ranging from 50.45% to 59.07% allowed for much stronger interfacial strength; however, the higher resin content can lead to the dispersion of CFs, loss of resin and the formation of defects during processing. Finally, the optimal resin mass content was 59.07%, with a tensile strength of 738.36 ± 14.49 MPa and a flexural strength of 659.68 ± 57.53 MPa. This paper studied the optimized processing parameters to obtain better properties from CF/PEEK plain weave fabrics and to further broaden the specific applications of CF/PEEK composites, demonstrating a new direction for its fabrication.
Mechanically Enhanced Electrical Conductivity of Polydimethylsiloxane-Based Composites by a Hot Embossing Process
Authors: Gao Xiaolong , Huang Yao , He Xiaoxiang , Fan Xiaojing , Liu Ying , Xu Hong , Wu Daming , Wan Chaoying
Published: January 2019

Electrically conductive polymer composites are in high demand for modern technologies, however, the intrinsic brittleness of conducting conjugated polymers and the moderate electrical conductivity of engineering polymer/carbon composites have highly constrained their applications. In this work, super high electrical conductive polymer composites were produced by a novel hot embossing design. The polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composites containing short carbon fiber (SCF) exhibited an electrical percolation threshold at 0.45 wt % and reached a saturated electrical conductivity of 49 S/m at 8 wt % of SCF. When reducing the sample thickness from 1.0 to 0.1 mm by the hot embossing process, a compression-induced percolation threshold occurred at 0.3 wt %, while the electrical conductivity was further enhanced to 378 S/m at 8 wt % SCF. Furthermore, the addition of a second nanofiller of 1 wt %, such as carbon nanotube or conducting carbon black, further increased the electrical conductivity of the PDMS/SCF (8 wt %) composites to 909 S/m and 657 S/m, respectively. The synergy of the densified conducting filler network by the mechanical compression and the hierarchical micro-/nano-scale filler approach has realized super high electrically conductive, yet mechanically flexible, polymer composites for modern flexible electronics applications.