bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mango Consumption Is Associated with Improved Nutrient Intakes, Diet Quality, and Weight-Related Health Outcomes
Authors: Papanikolaou Yanni , Fulgoni Victor L.
Published: December 2021

As nutrient-dense fruits, mangoes are commonly consumed globally and are important sources of nutrients in the diet. Nonetheless, mangoes remain relatively under-consumed in the United States. The objective of the present analysis was to examine nutrient intakes, diet quality, and health outcomes using data from NHANES 2001–2018 in children and adult mango consumers (n = 291; adults n = 449) compared with mango non-consumers (children n = 28,257; adults n = 44,574). Daily energy and nutrient intakes were adjusted for a complex sample design of NHANES using appropriate weights. Mango consumption was not associated with daily energy intake, compared with non-consumption, in both children and adults. Children consuming mangoes had a significantly lower daily intake of added sugar, sodium, total fat, and a higher intake of dietary fiber, magnesium, potassium, total choline, vitamin C, and vitamin D, compared with non-consumers. In adults, mango consumers had significantly higher daily intakes of dietary fiber, magnesium, potassium, folate, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E and significantly lower intakes of added sugar and cholesterol, compared with non-consumers. Mango consumption was also associated with a better diet quality vs. mango non-consumers (p < 0.0001). Mango consumption in adolescents was associated with lower BMI z-scores, compared with non-consumption. In adults, BMI scores, waist circumference, and body weight were significantly lower only in male mango consumers when compared with mango non-consumers. The current results support that mango consumption is associated with improved nutrient intakes, diet quality, and certain health outcomes. Thus, dietary strategies that aim to increase mango consumption in the American population should be evaluated as part of future dietary guidance.
Dietary Supplementation for Attenuating Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage and Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in Humans
Authors: Tanabe Yoko , Fujii Naoto , Suzuki Katsuhiko
Published: December 2021

Dietary supplements are widely used as a nutritional strategy to improve and maintain performance and achieve faster recovery in sports and exercise. Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is caused by mechanical stress and subsequent inflammatory responses including reactive oxygen species and cytokine production. Therefore, dietary supplements with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties have the potential to prevent and reduce muscle damage and symptoms characterized by loss of muscle strength and delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS). However, only a few supplements are considered to be effective at present. This review focuses on the effects of dietary supplements derived from phytochemicals and listed in the International Olympic Committee consensus statement on muscle damage evaluated by blood myofiber damage markers, muscle soreness, performance, and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. In this review, the effects of dietary supplements are also discussed in terms of study design (i.e., parallel and crossover studies), exercise model, and such subject characteristics as physical fitness level. Future perspectives and considerations for the use of dietary supplements to alleviate EIMD and DOMS are also discussed.
Therapeutic Potential of Thymoquinone in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Prevention and Progression through the Modulation of the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Adinew Getinet M. , Taka Equar , Mochona Bereket , Badisa Ramesh B. , Mazzio Elizabeth A. , Elhag Rashid , Soliman Karam F. A.
Published: December 2021

To date, the tumor microenvironment (TME) has gained considerable attention in various areas of cancer research due to its role in driving a loss of immune surveillance and enabling rapid advanced tumor development and progression. The TME plays an integral role in driving advanced aggressive breast cancers, including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a pivotal mediator for tumor cells to communicate with the surrounding cells via lymphatic and circulatory systems. Furthermore, the TME plays a significant role in all steps and stages of carcinogenesis by promoting and stimulating uncontrolled cell proliferation and protecting tumor cells from the immune system. Various cellular components of the TME work together to drive cancer processes, some of which include tumor-associated adipocytes, fibroblasts, macrophages, and neutrophils which sustain perpetual amplification and release of pro-inflammatory molecules such as cytokines. Thymoquinone (TQ), a natural chemical component from black cumin seed, is widely used traditionally and now in clinical trials for the treatment/prevention of multiple types of cancer, showing a potential to mitigate components of TME at various stages by various pathways. In this review, we focus on the role of TME in TNBC cancer progression and the effect of TQ on the TME, emphasizing their anticipated role in the prevention and treatment of TNBC. It was concluded from this review that the multiple components of the TME serve as a critical part of TNBC tumor promotion and stimulation of uncontrolled cell proliferation. Meanwhile, TQ could be a crucial compound in the prevention and progression of TNBC therapy through the modulation of the TME.
Compliance of Clinical Trial Protocols for Foods with Function Claims (FFC) in Japan: Consistency between Clinical Trial Registrations and Published Reports
Authors: Kamioka Hiroharu , Origasa Hideki , Kitayuguchi Jun , Tsutani Kiichiro
Published: December 2021

Background: A new type of foods with a health claims notification system, the Foods with Function Claims (FFC), was introduced in Japan in April 2015. This cross-sectional study sought to clarify compliance of clinical trial protocols reported as the scientific basis of efficacy in the FFC system. Methods: All articles based on clinical trials published on the Consumer Affairs Agency website from 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2021 were reviewed. Items assessed included first author characteristics (for-profit or academia), journal name, year published, journal impact factor in 2020, article language, name of clinical trial registration (CTR), and seven compliance items (Title: T, Participant: P, Intervention: I, Comparison: C, Outcome: O, Study design: S, and Institutional Review Board, IRB). Among studies that conducted CTR, consistency with these seven compliance items was evaluated. Results: Out of 136 studies that met all inclusion criteria, 103 (76%) performed CTR, and CTR was either not performed or not specified for 33 (24%). Compliance between the protocol and the text was high (≥96%) for items P and S, but considerably lower for items T, I, C, O, and IRB (52%, 15%, 13%, 69%, and 27%, respectively). Furthermore, 43% of protocols did not include functional ingredients or food names in items T or I. The total score was 3.7 ± 1.1 pts (out of 7). Conclusions: Some CTs had no protocol registration, and even registered protocols were suboptimal in transparency. In addition to selective reporting, a new problem identified was that the content of the intervention (test food) was intentionally concealed.
Factors Associated with Nutritional Deficiency Biomarkers in Candidates for Bariatric Surgery: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Peruvian High-Resolution Clinic
Authors: Riva-Moscoso Adrian , Martinez-Rivera Raisa N. , Cotrina-Susanibar Gianfranco , Príncipe-Meneses Fortunato S. , Urrunaga-Pastor Diego , Salinas-Sedo Gustavo , Toro-Huamanchumo Carlos J.
Published: December 2021

Previous studies have described multiple nutritional deficiencies after bariatric surgery (BS). However, few studies have evaluated these deficiencies prior to BS, specifically in Latin America. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with nutritional deficiency biomarkers in candidates for BS in Peru. We included adults of both sexes, aged 18 to 59 years, admitted to a Peruvian clinic with a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2; they were candidates for BS from 2017 to 2020. We considered the serum levels of hemoglobin and albumin (in tertiles) as the nutritional deficiency biomarkers. In order to assess the associated factors, we calculated crude (cPR) and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) with their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). We analyzed 255 patients: 63.1% were males, with a mean age of 37.1 ± 10.3 years and mean hemoglobin and albumin values of 14.0 ± 1.5 g/dL and 4.6 ± 0.4 g/dL, respectively. We found that males (aPR = 1.86; 95%CI: 1.26–2.73; p = 0.002), participants between 30 and 49 (aPR = 2.02; 95%CI: 1.24–3.28; p = 0.004) or 50 years or more (aPR = 2.42; 95%CI: 1.35–4.35; p = 0.003), participants with a BMI ≥40 kg/m2 (aPR = 1.68; 95%CI: 1.09–2.60; p = 0.018), participants with impaired high-density lipoprotein levels (aPR = 1.43; 95%CI: 1.01–2.05; p = 0.049) and individuals in the high tertile of C-reactive protein (aPR = 6.94; 95%CI: 3.37–14.32; p < 0.003) had a higher probability of being in the lower tertile of albumin. In addition, we found that the male sex (aPR = 6.94; 95%CI: 3.37–14.32; p < 0.001) and elevated cholesterol levels (aPR = 0.71; 95%CI: 0.52–0.97; p = 0.034) were associated with the lowest hemoglobin tertile. In our setting, nutritional deficiency biomarkers were associated with sociodemographic, anthropometric and laboratory markers. The pre-bariatric surgery correction of nutritional deficiencies is essential, and can prevent major complications after surgery.
Effects of Vitamin D3 Supplementation and Resistance Training on 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Status and Functional Performance of Older Adults: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Aschauer Rudolf , Unterberger Sandra , Zöhrer Patrick A. , Draxler Agnes , Franzke Bernhard , Strasser Eva-Maria , Wagner Karl-Heinz , Wessner Barbara
Published: December 2021

Vitamin D status is associated with muscle strength and performance in older adults. To examine the additive effects of vitamin D3 supplementation during resistance training, 100 seniors (65–85 years) participated in a 16-week intervention. Besides a daily dose of 400 mg of calcium, participants received either 800 IU vitamin D3 per day (VDD), 50,000 IU vitamin D3 per month (VDM) or nothing (CON). After the initial loading phase of four weeks, all groups started a 10-week resistance training program. Assessments of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) status, muscle strength endurance (30-s chair stand and arm curl tests), aerobic capacity (6-min walk test) and functional mobility (gait speed and timed up and go test) were undertaken at baseline, after four weeks and at the end of the study. 25(OH)D status significantly improved in VDD and VDM, but not in CON (time x group: p = 0.021), as 15.2% of CON, 40.0% of VDD and 61.1% of VDM reached vitamin D sufficiency (>30 ng/mL; p = 0.004). Chair stand test, arm curl test, 6-min walk test, gait speed and timed up and go test improved over the whole intervention period (p < 0.05), however only chair stand and arm curl test were selectively affected by resistance training (p < 0.001). Neither muscle strength endurance, nor functional mobility or aerobic capacity were modulated by vitamin D supplementation. Therefore, the mere amelioration of 25(OH)D status of older adults does not lead to an additive effect on muscular performance during RT.
Schistosoma mansoni Adult Worm Protective and Diagnostic Proteins in n-Butanol Extracts Revealed by Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Sulbarán Guidenn , Verissimo da Costa Giovani C. , Losada Sandra , Peralta José M. , Cesari Italo M.
Published: December 2021

The S. mansoni adult worm n-butanol extract (Sm-AWBE) has been previously shown to contain specific S. mansoni antigens that have been used for immunodiagnosis of schistosomiasis in solid phase alkaline phosphatase immunoassay (APIA) and western blot (WB) analyses. Sm-AWBE was also used in immunoprotection studies against a fatal live-cercariae challenge in experimental mouse vaccination (~43% protection). The Sm-AWBE fraction was prepared by mixing adult worm membranous suspensions with aqueous-saturated n-butanol, centrifuging and recovering n-butanol-resistant proteins in the aqueous phase. Here we report a preliminary identification of Sm-AWBE protein components as revealed from a qualitative proteomic study after processing Sm-AWBE by 1D-gel electrophoresis, in-gel and in-solution tryptic digestions, and mass spectrometry analyses. We identified 33 proteins in Sm-AWBE, all previously known S. mansoni proteins and antigens; among them, immunomodulatory proteins and proteins mostly involved in host–parasite interactions. About 81.8% of the identified Sm-AWBE proteins are antigenic. STRING analysis showed a set of Sm-AWBE proteins configuring a small network of interactive proteins and a group of proteins without interactions. Functional groups of proteins included muscle contraction, antioxidant, GPI-anchored phosphoesterases, regulatory 14-3-3, various enzymes and stress proteins. The results widen the possibilities to design novel antigen combinations for better diagnostic and immunoprotective strategies for schistosomiasis control.
Fucoidan Protects against Acute Sulfoxaflor-Induced Hematological/Biochemical Alterations and Oxidative Stress in Male Mice
Authors: Piner Benli Petek , Kaya Merve , Dağlıoğlu Yusuf Kenan
Published: December 2021

Fucoidan is a sulfated polysaccharide which can be found among a number of macroalgea species. It has a broad spectrum of biological activities including anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, immunoregulation, anti-viral and anti-coagulant. The current study was performed to investigate possible protective effects of fucoidan for sulfoxaflor-induced hematological/biochemical alterations and oxidative stress in the blood of male Swiss albino mice. For this purpose, sulfoxaflor was administered at a dose of 15 mg/kg/day (1/50 oral LD50), and fucoidan was administered at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day by oral gavage alone and combined for 24 h and 7 days. Hematological parameters (RBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, MCH, MCHC, Plt, WBC, Neu, Lym and Mon), serum biochemical parameters (AST, ALT, GGT, LDH, BUN, Cre and TBil), and serum oxidative stress/antioxidant markers (8-OHdG, MDA, POC and GSH) were analyzed. The results indicated that sulfoxaflor altered hematological and biochemical parameters and caused oxidative stress in mice; fucoidan ameliorated some hematological and biochemical parameters and exhibited a protective role as an antioxidant against sulfoxaflor-induced oxidative stress.
Clinical Management of COVID-19 in Cancer Patients with the STAT3 Inhibitor Silibinin
Authors: Bosch-Barrera Joaquim , Roqué Ariadna , Teixidor Eduard , Carmona-Garcia Maria Carmen , Arbusà Aina , Brunet Joan , Martin-Castillo Begoña , Cuyàs Elisabet , Verdura Sara , Menendez Javier A.
Published: December 2021

COVID-19 pathophysiology is caused by a cascade of respiratory and multiorgan failures arising, at least in part, from the SARS-CoV-2-driven dysregulation of the master transcriptional factor STAT3. Pharmacological correction of STAT3 over-stimulation, which is at the root of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and coagulopathy/thrombosis events, should be considered for treatment of severe COVID-19. In this perspective, we first review the current body of knowledge on the role of STAT3 in the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19. We then exemplify the potential clinical value of treating COVID-19 disease with STAT3 inhibitors by presenting the outcomes of two hospitalized patients with active cancer and COVID-19 receiving oral Legalon®—a nutraceutical containing the naturally occurring STAT3 inhibitor silibinin. Both patients, which were recruited to the clinical trial SIL-COVID19 (EudraCT number: 2020-001794-77) had SARS-CoV-2 bilateral interstitial pneumonia and a high COVID-GRAM score, and showed systemic proinflammatory responses in terms of lymphocytopenia and hypoalbuminemia. Both patients were predicted to be at high risk of critical COVID-19 illness in terms of intensive care unit admission, invasive ventilation, or death. In addition to physician’s choice of best available therapy or supportive care, patients received 1050 mg/day Legalon® for 10 days without side-effects. Silibinin-treated cancer/COVID-19+ patients required only minimal oxygen support (2–4 L/min) during the episode, exhibited a sharp decline of the STAT3-regulated C-reactive protein, and demonstrated complete resolution of the pulmonary lesions. These findings might inspire future research to advance our knowledge and improve silibinin-based clinical interventions aimed to target STAT3-driven COVID-19 pathophysiology.
Enhanced Transdermal Delivery of Pranoprofen Using a Thermo-Reversible Hydrogel Loaded with Lipid Nanocarriers for the Treatment of Local Inflammation
Authors: Rincón María , Silva-Abreu Marcelle , Espinoza Lupe Carolina , Sosa Lilian , Calpena Ana Cristina , Rodríguez-Lagunas María J. , Colom Helena
Published: December 2021

A biocompatible topical thermo-reversible hydrogel containing Pranoprofen (PF)-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) was studied as an innovative strategy for the topical treatment of skin inflammatory diseases. The PF-NLCs-F127 hydrogel was characterized physiochemically and short-time stability tests were carried out over 60 days. In vitro release and ex vivo human skin permeation studies were carried out in Franz diffusion cells. In addition, a cytotoxicity assay was studied using the HaCat cell line and in vivo tolerance study was performed in humans by evaluating the biomechanical properties. The anti-inflammatory effect of the PF-NLCs-F127 was evaluated in adult male Sprague Daw-ley® rats using a model of inflammation induced by the topical application of xylol for 1 h. The developed PF-NLCs-F127 exhibited a heterogeneous structure with spherical PF-NLCs in the hydrogel. Furthermore, a thermo-reversible behaviour was determined with a gelling temperature of 32.5 °C, being close to human cutaneous temperature and thus favouring the retention of PF. Furthermore, in the ex vivo study, the amount of PF retained and detected in human skin was high and no systemic effects were observed. The hydrogel was found to be non-cytotoxic, showing cell viability of around 95%. The PF-NLCs-F127 is shown to be well tolerated and no signs of irritancy or alterations of the skin’s biophysical properties were detected. The topical application of PF-NLCs-F127 hydrogel was shown to be efficient in an inflammatory animal model, preventing the loss of stratum corneum and reducing the presence of leukocyte infiltration. The results from this study confirm that the developed hydrogel is a suitable drug delivery carrier for the transdermal delivery of PF, improving its dermal retention, opening the possibility of using it as a promising candidate and safer alternative to topical treatment for local skin inflammation and indicating that it could be useful in the clinical environment.
Molecular Modeling Insights into Upadacitinib Selectivity upon Binding to JAK Protein Family
Authors: Taldaev Amir , Rudnev Vladimir R. , Nikolsky Kirill S. , Kulikova Liudmila I. , Kaysheva Anna L.
Published: December 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease characterized by bone joint damage and incapacitation. The mechanism underlying RA pathogenesis is autoimmunity in the connective tissue. Cytokines play an important role in the human immune system for signal transduction and in the development of inflammatory responses. Janus kinases (JAK) participate in the JAK/STAT pathway, which mediates cytokine effects, in particular interleukin 6 and IFNγ. The discovery of small molecule inhibitors of the JAK protein family has led to a revolution in RA therapy. The novel JAK inhibitor upadacitinib (RinvoqTM) has a higher selectivity for JAK1 compared to JAK2 and JAK3 in vivo. Currently, details on the molecular recognition of JAK1 by upadacitinib are not available. We found that characteristics of hydrogen bond formation with the glycine loop and hinge in JAKs define the selectivity. Our molecular modeling study could provide insight into the drug action mechanism and pharmacophore model differences in JAK isoforms.
New Strategies for Improving Budesonide Skin Retention
Authors: Padula Cristina , Machado Ian Pompermayer , Vigato Aryane Alves , de Araujo Daniele Ribeiro
Published: December 2021

The aim of this work was to evaluate the ex vivo effect of the combination of two strategies, complexation with cyclodextrin, and poloxamer hydrogels, for improving water solubility in the dermal absorption of budesonide. Two hydrogels containing 20% poloxamer 407, alone or in combination with poloxamer 403, were prepared. Each formulation was loaded with 0.05% budesonide, using either pure budesonide or its inclusion complex with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin, and applied in finite dose conditions on porcine skin. The obtained results showed that for all formulations, budesonide accumulated preferentially in the epidermis compared to the dermis. The quantity of budesonide recovered in the receptor compartment was, in all cases, lower than the LOQ of the analytical method, suggesting the absence of possible systemic absorption. The use of a binary poloxamer mixture reduced skin retention, in line with the lower release from the vehicle. When the hydrogels were formulated with the inclusion complex, an increase in budesonide skin retention was observed with both hydrogels. Poloxamer hydrogel proved to be a suitable vehicle for cutaneous administration of budesonide.
Improved Release of a Drug with Poor Water Solubility by Using Electrospun Water-Soluble Polymers as Carriers
Authors: Józó Muriel , Simon Nóra , Yi Lan , Móczó János , Pukánszky Béla
Published: December 2021

In an attempt to improve the solubility of valsartan, a BCS II drug, fibers containing the drug were prepared from three water-soluble polymers, hydroxypropyl-methyl-cellulose (HPMC), polyvinyl-pyrrolidone (PVP), and polyvinyl-alcohol (PVA). Fiber spinning technology was optimized for each polymer separately. The polymers contained 20 wt% of the active component. The drug was homogenously distributed within the fibers in the amorphous form. The presence of the drug interfered with the spinning process only slightly, the diameters of the fibers were in the same range as without the drug for the HPMC and the PVA fibers, while it doubled in PVP. The incorporation of the drug into the fibers increased its solubility in all cases compared to that of the neat drug. The solubility of the drug itself depends very much on pH and this sensitivity remained the same in the HPMC and PVP fibers; the release of the drug is dominated by the dissolution behavior of valsartan itself. On the other hand, solubility and the rate of release were practically independent of pH in the PVA fibers. The different behavior is explained by the rate of the dissolution of the respective polymer, which is larger for HPMC and PVP, and smaller for PVA than the dissolution rate of the drug. The larger extent of release compared to neat valsartan can be explained by the lack of crystallinity of the drug, its better dispersion, and the larger surface area of the fibers. Considering all facts, the preparation of electrospun devices from valsartan and water-soluble polymers is beneficial, and the use of PVA is more advantageous than that of the other two polymers.
Liposomal Encapsulation Increases the Efficacy of Azithromycin against Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Bogdanov Anita , Janovák László , Vraneš Jasmina , Meštrović Tomislav , Ljubin-Sternak Sunčanica , Cseh Zsuzsanna , Endrész Valéria , Burián Katalin , Vanić Željka , Virok Dezső P.
Published: December 2021

Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) is an obligate intracellular bacterium linked to ocular and urogenital infections with potentially serious sequelae, including blindness and infertility. First-line antibiotics, such as azithromycin (AZT) and doxycycline, are effective, but treatment failures have also been reported. Encapsulation of antibiotics in liposomes is considered an effective approach for improving their local effects, bioavailability, biocompatibility and antimicrobial activity. To test whether liposomes could enhance the antichlamydial action of AZT, we encapsulated AZT in different surface-charged elastic liposomes (neutral, cationic and anionic elastic liposomes) and assessed their antibacterial potential against the C. trachomatis serovar D laboratory strain as well as the clinical isolate C. trachomatis serovar F. A direct quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method was used to measure chlamydial genome content 48 h post infection and to determine the recoverable chlamydial growth. All the liposomes efficiently delivered AZT to HeLa 229 cells infected with the laboratory Chlamydia strain, exhibiting the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and the minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBC) of AZT even 4–8-fold lower than those achieved with the free AZT. The tested AZT-liposomes were also effective against the clinical Chlamydia strain by decreasing MIC values by 2-fold relative to the free AZT. Interestingly, the neutral AZT-liposomes had no effect on the MBC against the clinical strain, while cationic and anionic AZT-liposomes decreased the MBC 2-fold, hence proving the potential of the surface-charged elastic liposomes to improve the effectiveness of AZT against C. trachomatis.
Zein-Based Nanoparticles as Oral Carriers for Insulin Delivery
Authors: Reboredo Cristian , González-Navarro Carlos J. , Martínez-López Ana Luisa , Martínez-Ohárriz Cristina , Sarmento Bruno , Irache Juan M.
Published: December 2021

Zein, the major storage protein from corn, has a GRAS (Generally Regarded as Safe) status and may be easily transformed into nanoparticles, offering significant payloads for protein materials without affecting their stability. In this work, the capability of bare zein nanoparticles (mucoadhesive) and nanoparticles coated with poly(ethylene glycol) (mucus-permeating) was evaluated as oral carriers of insulin (I-NP and I-NP-PEG, respectively). Both nanocarriers displayed sizes of around 270 nm, insulin payloads close to 80 µg/mg and did not induce cytotoxic effects in Caco-2 and HT29-MTX cell lines. In Caenorhabditis elegans, where insulin decreases fat storage, I-NP-PEG induced a higher reduction in the fat content than I-NP and slightly lower than the control (Orlistat). In diabetic rats, nanoparticles induced a potent hypoglycemic effect and achieved an oral bioavailability of 4.2% for I-NP and 10.2% for I-NP-PEG. This superior effect observed for I-NP-PEG would be related to their capability to diffuse through the mucus layer and reach the surface of enterocytes (where insulin would be released), whereas the mucoadhesive I-NP would remain trapped in the mucus, far away from the absorptive epithelium. In summary, PEG-coated zein nanoparticles may be an interesting device for the effective delivery of proteins through the oral route.
Nanomedicine in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A New Frontier in Targeted Cancer Treatment
Authors: Bakrania Anita , Zheng Gang , Bhat Mamatha
Published: December 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death and is associated with a dismal median survival of 2–9 months. The fundamental limitations and ineffectiveness of current HCC treatments have led to the development of a vast range of nanotechnologies with the goal of improving the safety and efficacy of treatment for HCC. Although remarkable success has been achieved in nanomedicine research, there are unique considerations such as molecular heterogeneity and concomitant liver dysfunction that complicate the translation of nanotheranostics in HCC. This review highlights the progress, challenges, and targeting opportunities in HCC nanomedicine based on the growing literature in recent years.
The Beneficial Additive Effect of Silymarin in Metformin Therapy of Liver Steatosis in a Pre-Diabetic Model
Authors: Hüttl Martina , Markova Irena , Miklankova Denisa , Zapletalova Iveta , Poruba Martin , Racova Zuzana , Vecera Rostislav , Malinska Hana
Published: December 2021

The combination of plant-derived compounds with anti-diabetic agents to manage hepatic steatosis closely associated with diabetes mellitus may be a new therapeutic approach. Silymarin, a complex of bioactive substances extracted from Silybum marianum, evinces an antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activity. In this study, we investigated whether metformin (300 mg/kg/day for four weeks) supplemented with micronized silymarin (600 mg/kg/day) would be effective in mitigating fatty liver disturbances in a pre-diabetic model with dyslipidemia. Compared with metformin monotherapy, the metformin–silymarin combination reduced the content of neutral lipids (TAGs) and lipotoxic intermediates (DAGs). Hepatic gene expression of enzymes and transcription factors involved in lipogenesis (Scd-1, Srebp1, Pparγ, and Nr1h) and fatty acid oxidation (Pparα) were positively affected, with hepatic lipid accumulation reducing as a result. Combination therapy also positively influenced arachidonic acid metabolism, including its metabolites (14,15-EET and 20-HETE), mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress. Changes in the gene expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly Cyp4A, can improve hepatic lipid metabolism and moderate inflammation. All these effects play a significant role in ameliorating insulin resistance, a principal background of liver steatosis closely linked to T2DM. The additive effect of silymarin in metformin therapy can mitigate fatty liver development in the pre-diabetic state and before the onset of diabetes.
Continuous Fixed-Bed Column Studies on Congo Red Dye Adsorption-Desorption Using Free and Immobilized Nelumbo nucifera Leaf Adsorbent
Authors: Parimelazhagan Vairavel , Jeppu Gautham , Rampal Nakul
Published: December 2021

The adsorption of Congo red (CR), an azo dye, from aqueous solution using free and immobilized agricultural waste biomass of Nelumbo nucifera (lotus) has been studied separately in a continuous fixed-bed column operation. The N. nucifera leaf powder adsorbent was immobilized in various polymeric matrices and the maximum decolorization efficiency (83.64%) of CR occurred using the polymeric matrix sodium silicate. The maximum efficacy (72.87%) of CR dye desorption was obtained using the solvent methanol. Reusability studies of free and immobilized adsorbents for the decolorization of CR dye were carried out separately in three runs in continuous mode. The % color removal and equilibrium dye uptake of the regenerated free and immobilized adsorbents decreased significantly after the first cycle. The decolorization efficiencies of CR dye adsorption were 53.66% and 43.33%; equilibrium dye uptakes were 1.179 mg g–1 and 0.783 mg g–1 in the third run of operation with free and immobilized adsorbent, respectively. The column experimental data fit very well to the Thomas and Yoon–Nelson models for the free and immobilized adsorbent with coefficients of correlation R2 ≥ 0.976 in various runs. The study concludes that free and immobilized N. nucifera can be efficiently used for the removal of CR from synthetic and industrial wastewater in a continuous flow mode. It makes a substantial contribution to the development of new biomass materials for monitoring and remediation of toxic dye-contaminated water resources.
Layer Adhesion Test of Additively Manufactured Pins: A Shear Test
Authors: Birosz Márton Tamás , Andó Mátyás , Safranyik Ferenc
Published: December 2021

Additive Manufacturing (AM) became a popular engineering solution not only for Rapid Prototyping (RP) as a part of product development but as an effective solution for producing complex geometries as fully functional components. Even the modern engineering tools, such as the different simulation software, have a shape optimization solution especially for parts created by AM. To extend the application of these methods in this work, the failure properties of the 3D-printed parts have been investigated via shear test measurements. The layer adhesion can be calculated based on the results, which can be used later for further numerical modeling. In conclusion, it can be stated that the layer formation and the structure of the infill have a great influence on the mechanical properties. The layers formed following the conventional zig-zag infill style show a random failure, and the layers created via extruded concentric circles show more predictable load resistance.
Tuning the Morphology in the Nanoscale of NH4CN Polymers Synthesized by Microwave Radiation: A Comparative Study
Authors: Pérez-Fernández Cristina , Valles Pilar , González-Toril Elena , Mateo-Martí Eva , de la Fuente José Luis , Ruiz-Bermejo Marta
Published: December 2021

A systematic study is presented to explore the NH4CN polymerization induced by microwave (MW) radiation, keeping in mind the recent growing interest in these polymers in material science. Thus, a first approach through two series, varying the reaction times and the temperatures between 130 and 205 °C, was conducted. As a relevant outcome, using particular reaction conditions, polymer conversions similar to those obtained by means of conventional thermal methods were achieved, with the advantage of a very significant reduction of the reaction times. The structural properties of the end products were evaluated using compositional data, spectroscopic measurements, simultaneous thermal analysis (STA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). As a result, based on the principal component analysis (PCA) from the main experimental results collected, practically only the crystallographic features and the morphologies in the nanoscale were affected by the MW-driven polymerization conditions with respect to those obtained by classical syntheses. Therefore, MW radiation allows us to tune the morphology, size and shape of the particles from the bidimensional C=N networks which are characteristic of the NH4CN polymers by an easy, fast, low-cost and green-solvent production. These new insights make these macromolecular systems attractive for exploration in current soft-matter science.
Epoxyorganosilane Finishing Compositions for Fibrous Fillers of Thermosetting and Thermoplastic Binders
Authors: Shapagin Alexey V. , Gladkikh Natalia A. , Poteryaev Arkadiy A. , Stepanenko Valentina Yu. , Nikulova Uliana V. , Khasbiullin Ramil R.
Published: December 2021

The development of universal finishing compositions for fibers of various natures is an urgent task for polymer composite materials science. The developed finishes can be used for the fiber reinforcement of polymer matrices with a wide range of surface free energy characteristics. Epoxy systems modified with diaminesilane in a wide concentration range were examined by optical interferometry, FTIR spectroscopy, DSC and the sessile drop technique. It was shown that the partial curing of epoxy resin by diaminesilane at room temperature under an inert atmosphere, followed by contact with air, leads to a significant increase of the surface free energy of the system. Varying the concentration of diaminesilane allows us to effectively regulate the surface free energy of the composition. This makes it possible to use fibers finished with epoxyaminosilane compositions in composite materials based on a various thermosetting and thermoplastic binders with a surface tension of up to 75 mJ/m2.
Flexural Strength, Elastic Modulus and Remineralizing Abilities of Bioactive Resin-Based Dental Sealants
Authors: Ibrahim Maria Salem , Alabbas Mana’a S. , Alsomaly Khalid U. , AlMansour Abdullah A. , Aljouie Alhareth Abdulaziz , Alzahrani Majed M. , Asseri Ahmed A. , AlHumaid Jehan
Published: December 2021

Objective: To assess the remineralizing abilities and compare the flexural strength and elastic modulus of different bioactive pit and fissure sealants. Materials and Methods: Human enamel samples were randomly and blindly sealed with one of the following bioactive materials: BioCoat (Bc), ACTIVA KIDS (Av) and BeautiSealant (Bu). Seal-it (Si) was used as a non-bioactive sealant beside a control blank (B) group with no sealant. The sealed samples were subjected to a pH-cycling model (7 days of demineralization–remineralization cycles). The enamel surface hardness change (SHC), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and polarized light microscopy were used to assess the remineralizing abilities of the studied sealants. Flexural strength and elastic modulus were also assessed following the ISO 4049 protocols. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze the results. Results: Bc sealant showed the highest FS and EM (p < 0.05). The contact with Bc and Bu sealants showed significantly lower %SHL (p < 0.05) in comparison to the other. These findings were supported by the results of SEM-EDX and polarized imaging by showing higher percentages of calcium and phosphate ions with the former sealants and thinner demineralized enamel bands. Conclusion: In this study, Bc showed the highest flexural strength. Bc and Bu sealants outperformed the other studied sealants in terms of their remineralization abilities.
RAFT Emulsion Polymerization of Styrene Using a Poly((N,N-dimethyl acrylamide)-co-(N-isopropyl acrylamide)) mCTA: Synthesis and Thermosensitivity
Authors: Nieswandt Katharina , Georgopanos Prokopios , Held Martin , Sperling Evgeni , Abetz Volker
Published: December 2021

Thermoresponsive poly((N,N-dimethyl acrylamide)-co-(N-isopropyl acrylamide)) (P(DMA-co-NIPAM)) copolymers were synthesized via reversible addition−fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. The monomer reactivity ratios were determined by the Kelen–Tüdős method to be rNIPAM = 0.83 and rDMA = 1.10. The thermoresponsive properties of these copo-lymers with varying molecular weights were characterized by visual turbidimetry and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The copolymers showed a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) in water with a dependence on the molar fraction of DMA in the copolymer. Chaotropic and kosmotropic salt anions of the Hofmeister series, known to affect the LCST of thermoresponsive polymers, were used as additives in the aqueous copolymer solutions and their influence on the LCST was demonstrated. Further on, in order to investigate the thermoresponsive behavior of P(DMA-co-NIPAM) in a confined state, P(DMA-co-NIPAM)-b-PS diblock copolymers were prepared via polymerization induced self-assembly (PISA) through surfactant-free RAFT mediated emulsion polymerization of styrene using P(DMA-co-NIPAM) as the macromolecular chain transfer agent (mCTA) of the polymerization. As confirmed by cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryoTEM), this approach yielded stabilized spherical micelles in aqueous dispersions where the PS block formed the hydrophobic core and the P(DMA-co-NIPAM) block formed the hydrophilic corona of the spherical micelle. The temperature-dependent behavior of the LCST-type diblock copolymers was further studied by examining the collapse of the P(DMA-co-NIPAM) minor block of the P(DMA-co-NIPAM)-b-PS diblock copolymers as a function of temperature in aqueous solution. The nanospheres were found to be thermosensitive by changing their hydrodynamic radii almost linearly as a function of temperature between 25 °C and 45 °C. The addition of kosmotropic salt anions, as a potentially useful tuning feature of micellar assemblies, was found to increase the hydrodynamic radius of the micelles and resulted in a faster collapse of the micelle corona upon heating.
In Vivo Investigation of Polymer-Ceramic PCL/HA and PCL/β-TCP 3D Composite Scaffolds and Electrical Stimulation for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Helaehil Júlia Venturini , Lourenço Carina Basqueira , Huang Boyang , Helaehil Luiza Venturini , de Camargo Isaque Xavier , Chiarotto Gabriela Bortolança , Santamaria-Jr Milton , Bártolo Paulo , Caetano Guilherme Ferreira
Published: December 2021

Critical bone defects are a major clinical challenge in reconstructive bone surgery. Polycaprolactone (PCL) mixed with bioceramics, such as hydroxyapatite (HA) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP), create composite scaffolds with improved biological recognition and bioactivity. Electrical stimulation (ES) aims to compensate the compromised endogenous electrical signals and to stimulate cell proliferation and differentiation. We investigated the effects of composite scaffolds (PCL with HA; and PCL with β-TCP) and the use of ES on critical bone defects in Wistar rats using eight experimental groups: untreated, ES, PCL, PCL/ES, HA, HA/ES, TCP, and TCP/ES. The investigation was based on histomorphometry, immunohistochemistry, and gene expression analysis. The vascular area was greater in the HA/ES group on days 30 and 60. Tissue mineralization was greater in the HA, HA/ES, and TCP groups at day 30, and TCP/ES at day 60. Bmp-2 gene expression was higher in the HA, TCP, and TCP/ES groups at day 30, and in the TCP/ES and PCL/ES groups at day 60. Runx-2, Osterix, and Osteopontin gene expression were also higher in the TCP/ES group at day 60. These results suggest that scaffolds printed with PCL and TCP, when paired with electrical therapy application, improve bone regeneration.
Structural Behavior of RC Column Confined by FRP Sheet under Uniaxial and Biaxial Load
Authors: Tin Huynh-Xuan , Thuy Ngo-Thanh , Seo Soo-Yeon
Published: December 2021

Various researches have been performed to find an effective confining method using FRP sheet in order to improve the structural capacity of reinforced concrete column. However, most of these researches were undertaken for the columns subjected to concentric compressive load or fully confined RC columns. To date, it remains hard to find studies on partially FRP-confined RC columns under eccentric load. In this manner, an experimental investigation was carried out to assess the performance of rectangular RC column with different patterns of CFRP-wrap subject to eccentric loads in this paper. The experiment consists of fourteen mid-scale rectangular RC columns of 200 mm × 200 mm × 800 mm, including five controlled columns and nine CFRP-strengthened ones. All CFRP-strengthened columns were reinforced with one layer of vertical CFRP sheet with the main fiber along the axial axis at four sides, then divided into three groups according to confinement purpose, namely unconfined, partially CFRP-confined, and fully CFRP-confined group. Two loading conditions, namely uniaxially and biaxially eccentric loads, are considered as one of the test parameters. From the test of uniaxial eccentric load, partial and full CFRP-wraps provided 19% and 33% increased load-carrying capacity at an eccentricity-to-column thickness ratio (e/h) of 0.125, respectively, compared to controlled columns, and 8% and 11% at e/h = 0.25, respectively. For the partially CFRP-confined columns subjected to biaxial eccentric load with e/h = 0.125 and 0.25, the load-carrying capacities were improved by 19% and 31%, respectively. This means that the partial confinement with CFRP effectively improves the load-carrying capacity at larger biaxial eccentric load. It was found that the load-carrying capacity could be properly predicted by using code equations of ACI 440.2R-17 and Fib Bulletin 14 Guideline for the full CFRP-confined or partially CFRP-confined columns under uniaxial load. For partially CFRP-confined columns under biaxial loading, however, the safety factors using the Fib calculation process were 20% to 31% lower than that of uniaxially loaded columns.
Superabsorbent Polymer Seed Coating Reduces Leaching of Fungicide but Does Not Alter Their Effectiveness in Suppressing Pathogen Infestation
Authors: Gubišová Marcela , Hudcovicová Martina , Matušinský Pavel , Ondreičková Katarína , Klčová Lenka , Gubiš Jozef
Published: December 2021

Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) applied to soil have been recognized as water reservoirs that allow plants to cope with periods of drought. Their application as a seed coat makes water available directly to the seeds during their germination and early growth phase, but on the other hand, it can affect the efficiency of plant protection substances used in seed dressing. In our experiments, we evaluated the effect of seed coating with SAP on fungicide leaching and changes in their effectiveness in suppressing Fusarium culmorum infestation. Leaching of fungicide from wheat seeds coated with SAP after fungicide dressing, as measured by the inhibition test of mycelium growth under in vitro conditions, was reduced by 14.2–15.8% compared to seeds without SAP coating. Germination of maize seeds and growth of juvenile plants in artificially infected soil did not differ significantly between seeds dressed with fungicide alone and seeds treated with SAP and fungicide. In addition, plants from the seeds coated with SAP alone grew significantly better compared to untreated seeds. Real-time PCR also confirmed this trend by measuring the amount of pathogen DNA in plant tissue. Winter wheat was less tolerant to F. culmorum infection and without fungicide dressing, the seeds were unable to germinate under strong pathogen attack. In the case of milder infection, similar results were observed as in the case of maize seeds.
Powder Surface Roughness as Proxy for Bed Density in Powder Bed Fusion of Polymers
Authors: Sillani Francesco , Schiegg Ramis , Schmid Manfred , MacDonald Eric , Wegener Konrad
Published: December 2021

Powder bed fusion of polymers is becoming increasingly adopted by a variety of industries to tailor the strength, weight and functionality of end-use products. To meet the high standards of the modern manufacturing industry, parts built with powder bed fusion require consistent properties and to be free of defects, which is intrinsically connected to the quality of the powder bed prior to melting. The hypothesis of this work is that the roughness of the top surface of an unmelted powder bed can serve as a proxy for the powder bed density, which is known to correlate with final part density. In this study, a laser line scan profilometer is integrated onto the recoater arm of a custom powder test bench, which is able to automatically create layers of powder. A diverse group of polymers was investigated including polyamide 12 (PA12), polyamide 11 (PA11), polypropylene (PP), and a thermoplastic elastomer (TPU) under different recoating speed in order to increase the variance of the dataset. Data analytics were employed to compare roughness to measured powder bed density and a statically significant correlation was established between them.
The Flame-Retardant Mechanisms and Preparation of Polymer Composites and Their Potential Application in Construction Engineering
Authors: Shen Jingjing , Liang Jianwei , Lin Xinfeng , Lin Hongjian , Yu Jing , Wang Shifang
Published: December 2021

Against the background of people’s increasing awareness of personal safety and property safety, the flame retardancy (FR) of materials has increasingly become the focus of attention in the field of construction engineering. A variety of materials have been developed in research and production in this field. Polymers have many advantages, such as their light weight, low water absorption, high flexibility, good chemical corrosion resistance, high specific strength, high specific modulus and low thermal conductivity, and are often applied to the field of construction engineering. However, the FR of unmodified polymer is not ideal, and new methods to make it more flame retardant are needed to enhance the FR. This article primarily introduces the flame-retardant mechanism of fire retardancy. It summarizes the preparation of polymer flame-retardant materials by adding different flame-retardant agents, and the application and research progress related to polymer flame-retardant materials in construction engineering.