bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiproliferative Properties of Triterpenoids by ECIS Method—A New Promising Approach in Anticancer Studies?
Authors: Hordyjewska Anna , Prendecka-Wróbel Monika , Kurach Łukasz , Horecka Anna , Olszewska Anna , Pigoń-Zając Dominika , Małecka-Massalska Teresa , Kurzepa Jacek
Published: May 2022

Electric cell–substrate impedance sensing is an advanced in vitro impedance measuring system which uses alternating current to determine behavior of cells in physiological conditions. In this study, we used the abovementioned method for checking the anticancer activities of betulin and betulinic acid, which are some of the most commonly found triterpenes in nature. In our experiment, the threshold concentrations of betulin required to elicit antiproliferative effects, verified by MTT and LDH release methods, were 7.8 µM for breast cancer (T47D), 9.5 µM for lung carcinoma (A549), and 21.3 µM for normal epithelial cells (Vero). The ECIS results revealed the great potential of betulin and betulinic acid’s antitumor properties and their maintenance of cytotoxic substances to the breast cancer T47D line. Moreover, both substances showed a negligible toxic effect on healthy epithelial cells (Vero). Our investigation showed that the ECIS method is a proper alternative to the currently used assay for testing in vitro anticancer activity of compounds, and that it should thus be introduced in cellular routine research. It is also a valuable tool for live-monitoring changes in the morphology and physiology of cells, which translates into the accurate development of anticancer therapies.
Phytochemical Variability of Essential Oils of Two Balkan Endemic Species: Satureja pilosa Velen. and S. kitaibelii Wierzb. ex Heuff. (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Zheljazkov Valtcho D. , Semerdjieva Ivanka B. , Cantrell Charles L. , Astatkie Tess , Aćimović Milica
Published: May 2022

Satureja pilosa and S. kitaibelii (Lamiaceae) are Balkan endemic plant species, and the composition of their essential oil (EO) is highly variable. The aim of the present study was to establish: (1) the EO variability in two populations of S. pilosa (the intrapopulation), and (2) the EO variation in S. kitaibelii between nine populations (interpopulation) from Bulgaria and two from Serbia. The EOs of two Satureja species were obtained from aboveground plant parts by hydrodistillation and were analyzed by GC/MS/FID. Overall, the EO yield on the intrapopulation level of S. pilosa varied from 0.54% to 2.15%, while the EO of S. kitaibelii varied from 0.04% to 0.43% (interpopulation). The EO of S. pilosa was found to contain thymol and carvacrol as the main constituents, with other major constituents being p-cymene and γ-terpinene. S. pilosa samples in both studied populations formed six chemical groups. The major constituents (p-cymene, terpinen-4-ol, bornyl acetate, γ-muurolene, endo-borneol, cis-β-ocimene, trans-β-ocimene, carvacrol, α-pinene, thymoquinone, geranial, geranyl acetate, spathulenol, and caryophyllene oxide) of S. kitaibelii EO were considered for grouping the populations into ten chemotypes. The present study is the first report on the interpopulation diversity of S. kitaibelii EOs in Bulgaria. It demonstrated variability of the EOs between and within the populations of S. kitaibelii from Bulgaria. This study identified promising genetic material that could be further propagated and developed into cultivars for commercial production of S. kitaibelii and S. pilosa, thereby reducing the impact of collection on wild populations.
Synergistic Interactions between Tocol and Phenolic Extracts from Different Tree Nut Species against Human Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Stevens-Barrón Jazmín C. , Wall-Medrano Abraham , Álvarez-Parrilla Emilio , Olivas-Armendáriz Imelda , Astiazaran-García Humberto , Robles-Zepeda Ramón E. , De la Rosa Laura A.
Published: May 2022

Tree nuts are rich in polar (phenolic compounds) and non-polar (tocols) antioxidants, with recognized effects in the prevention of diseases such as cancer. These biomolecules possess antiproliferative activity on cancer cells; however, the combined effect of both types of compounds has been scarcely studied, and this approach could give valuable information on the real anticancer potential of tree nuts. In the present study, the antiproliferative activity of pure tocols and phenolic compounds, tocol- and phenolic-rich extracts (TRE and PRE, respectively) from tree nuts and the extracts combinations, was evaluated in four cancer (HeLa, MCF7, PC3, A549) and one control (ARPE) cell lines. The most sensible cell lines were HeLa and MCF7. TRE and PRE from nuts were chemically characterized; γ and δ tocopherols, total tocols, total tocopherols and total phenolic compounds were negatively correlated with cell viability in MCF7 cells. In HeLa cells, only δ and total tocopherols were negatively correlated with cell viability. TRE and PRE had a low effect in reducing cell viability of the cancer cell lines, the most effective extracts were those of emory oak acorn (EOA), pecan nut (PEC) and walnut (WAL), and these were further studied for their pharmacological interactions, using the combination index and the isobologram methods. Combinations of both extracts showed a synergistic and strongly synergistic behavior in the three nuts (EOA, PEC and WAL), with combination indexes between 0.12 and 0.55. These results highlight the need to understand the interactions among components found in complex natural extracts or food products in order to fully understand their bioactivities.
Novel NIR-Phosphorescent Ir(III) Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization and Their Exploration as Lifetime-Based O2 Sensors in Living Cells
Authors: Kritchenkov Ilya S. , Mikhnevich Vitaliya G. , Stashchak Victoria S. , Solomatina Anastasia I. , Kozina Daria O. , Sokolov Victor V. , Tunik Sergey P.
Published: May 2022

A series of [Ir(N^C)2(N^N)]+ NIR-emitting orthometalated complexes (1–7) has been prepared and structurally characterized using elemental analysis, mass-spectrometry, and NMR spectroscopy. The complexes display intense phosphorescence with vibrationally structured emission bands exhibiting the maxima in the range 713–722 nm. The DFT and TD DFT calculations showed that the photophysical characteristics of these complexes are largely determined by the properties of the metalating N^C ligands, with their major contribution into formation of the lowest S1 and T1 excited states responsible for low energy absorption and emission, respectively. Emission lifetimes of 1–7 in degassed methanol solution vary from 1.76 to 5.39 µs and show strong quenching with molecular oxygen to provide an order of magnitude lifetime reduction in aerated solution. The photophysics of two complexes (1 and 7) were studied in model physiological media containing fetal bovine serum (FBS) and Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) to give linear Stern-Volmer calibrations with substantially lower oxygen-quenching constants compared to those obtained in methanol solution. These observations were interpreted in terms of the sensors’ interaction with albumin, which is an abundant component of FBS and cell media. The studied complexes displayed acceptable cytotoxicity and preferential localization, either in mitochondria (1) or in lysosomes (7) of the CHO-K1 cell line. The results of the phosphorescence lifetime imaging (PLIM) experiments demonstrated considerable variations of the sensors’ lifetimes under normoxia and hypoxia conditions and indicated their applicability for semi-quantitative measurements of oxygen concentration in living cells. The complexes’ emission in the NIR domain and the excitation spectrum, extending down to ca. 600 nm, also showed that they are promising for use in in vivo studies.
Characteristics and pH-Responsiveness of SDBS–Stabilized Crude Oil/Water Nanoemulsions
Authors: Onaizi Sagheer A.
Published: May 2022

Nanoemulsions are colloidal systems with a wide spectrum of applications in several industrial fields. In this study, crude oil-in-water (O/W) nanoemulsions were formulated using different dosages of the anionic sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (SDBS) surfactant. The formulated nanoemulsions were characterized in terms of emulsion droplet size, zeta potential, and interfacial tension (IFT). Additionally, the rheological behavior, long-term stability, and on-demand breakdown of the nanoemulsions via a pH-responsive mechanism were evaluated. The obtained results revealed the formation of as low as 63.5 nm average droplet size with a narrow distribution (33–142 nm). Additionally, highly negative zeta potential (i.e., −62.2 mV) and reasonably low IFT (0.45 mN/m) were obtained at 4% SDBS. The flow-ability of the nanoemulsions was also investigated and the obtained results revealed an increase in the nanoemulsion viscosity with increasing the emulsifier content. Nonetheless, even at the highest SDBS dosage of 4%, the nanoemulsion viscosity at ambient conditions never exceeded 2.5 mPa·s. A significant reduction in viscosity was obtained with increasing the nanoemulsion temperature. The formulated nanoemulsions displayed extreme stability with no demulsification signs irrespective of the emulsifier dosage even after one-month shelf-life. Another interesting and, yet, surprising observation reported herein is the pH-induced demulsification despite SDBS not possessing a pH-responsive character. This behavior enabled the on-demand breakdown of the nanoemulsions by simply altering their pH via the addition of HCl or NaOH; a complete and quick oil separation can be achieved using this simple and cheap demulsification method. The obtained results reveal the potential utilization of the formulated nanoemulsions in oilfield-related applications such as enhanced oil recovery (EOR), well stimulation and remediation, well-bore cleaning, and formation fracturing.
Quantum Diffusion in the Lowest Landau Level of Disordered Graphene
Authors: Sinner Andreas , Tkachov Gregor
Published: May 2022

Electronic transport in the lowest Landau level of disordered graphene sheets placed in a homogeneous perpendicular magnetic field is a long-standing and cumbersome problem which defies a conclusive solution for several years. Because the modeled system lacks an intrinsic small parameter, the theoretical picture is infested with singularities and anomalies. We propose an analytical approach to the conductivity based on the analysis of the diffusive processes, and we calculate the density of states, the diffusion coefficient and the static conductivity. The obtained results are not only interesting from the purely theoretical point of view but have a practical significance as well, especially for the development of the novel high-precision calibration devices.
Nanomaterials in Dentistry: Current Applications and Future Scope
Authors: Sreenivasalu Pavan Kumar Pavagada , Dora Chander Parkash , Swami Rajan , Jasthi Veeriah Chowdary , Shiroorkar Predeepkumar Narayanappa , Nagaraja Sreeharsha , Asdaq Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin , Anwer Md. Khalid
Published: May 2022

Nanotechnology utilizes the mechanics to control the size and morphology of the particles in the required nano range for accomplishing the intended purposes. There was a time when it was predominantly applied only to the fields of matter physics or chemical engineering, but with time, biological scientists recognized its vast benefits and explored the advantages in their respective fields. This extension of nanotechnology in the field of dentistry is termed ‘Nanodentistry.’ It is revolutionizing every aspect of dentistry. It consists of therapeutic and diagnostic tools and supportive aids to maintain oral hygiene with the help of nanomaterials. Research in nanodentistry is evolving holistically but slowly with the advanced finding of symbiotic use of novel polymers, natural polymers, metals, minerals, and drugs. These materials, in association with nanotechnology, further assist in exploring the usage of nano dental adducts in prosthodontic, regeneration, orthodontic, etc. Moreover, drug release cargo abilities of the nano dental adduct provide an extra edge to dentistry over their conventional counterparts. Nano dentistry has expanded to every single branch of dentistry. In the present review, we will present a holistic view of the recent advances in the field of nanodentistry. The later part of the review compiled the ethical and regulatory challenges in the commercialization of the nanodentistry. This review tracks the advancement in nano dentistry in different but important domains of dentistry.
The Nanofibrous CaO Sorbent for CO2 Capture
Authors: Rodaev Vyacheslav V. , Razlivalova Svetlana S. , Tyurin Alexander I. , Vasyukov Vladimir M.
Published: May 2022

The nanofibrous CaO sorbent for high-temperature CO2 capture was fabricated by the calcination of electrospun composite filaments containing calcium acetylacetonate and polyacrylonitrile as a calcium-oxide precursor and a binder polymer, respectively. The calcination was carried out in air to prevent PAN carbonization and to obtain pure CaO nanofibers. The resulting mats of CaO nanofibers with the average diameter of 130 nm were characterized by a specific surface area of 31 m2/g, a CO2-uptake capacity of 16.4 mmol/g at the carbonation temperature of 618 °C, a hardness of 1.87 MPa, and the indentation Young’s modulus of 786 MPa. The low decarbonation temperature makes the fabricated sorbent promising, for example, for the calcium-looping technology of CO2 removal from the hot exhaust gases of fossil-fueled power plants.
Asphalt Binder “Skincare”? Aging Evaluation of an Asphalt Binder Modified by Nano-TiO2
Authors: Lima Orlando , Afonso Cátia , Rocha Segundo Iran , Landi Salmon , Homem Natália C. , Freitas Elisabete , Alcantara Amanda , Branco Verônica Castelo , Soares Sandra , Soares Jorge , Teixeira Vasco , Carneiro Joaquim
Published: May 2022

Aging by oxidation of asphalt roadway material promotes changes in its physical, chemical, and rheological properties, affecting its hardening and accelerating the degradation of its corresponding asphalt mixture. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) has been applied in engineering investigations to promote anti-aging and photocatalytic properties. In this study, a commercial binder was modified with nano-TiO2 (using contents of 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 6%). It was evaluated by physicochemical and rheological tests (penetration, softening point, mass loss, dynamic viscosity, rheology, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy—FTIR) before and after aging by rolling thin-film oven test (RTFOT) and pressure aging vessel (PAV). The results indicated that incorporating nano-TiO2 mitigates binder aging, pointing out 0.25% as an optimum modification content for the investigated asphalt binder.
Insights into Electron Transport in a Ferroelectric Tunnel Junction
Authors: Sandu Titus , Tibeica Catalin , Plugaru Rodica , Nedelcu Oana , Plugaru Neculai
Published: May 2022

The success of a ferroelectric tunnel junction (FTJ) depends on the asymmetry of electron tunneling as given by the tunneling electroresistance (TER) effect. This characteristic is mainly assessed considering three transport mechanisms: direct tunneling, thermionic emission, and Fowler-Nordheim tunneling. Here, by analyzing the effect of temperature on TER, we show that taking into account only these mechanisms may not be enough in order to fully characterize the performance of FTJ devices. We approach the electron tunneling in FTJ with the non-equilibrium Green function (NEGF) method, which is able to overcome the limitations affecting the three mechanisms mentioned above. We bring evidence that the performance of FTJs is also affected by temperature–in a non-trivial way–via resonance (Gamow-Siegert) states, which are present in the electron transmission probability and are usually situated above the barrier. Although the NEGF technique does not provide direct access to the wavefunctions, we show that, for single-band transport, one can find the wavefunction at any given energy and in particular at resonant energies in the system.
Fish Oil Nanoemulsion Supplementation Attenuates Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis BALB/c Mice
Authors: Galdino de Souza Danielle , Santos Débora Silva , Simon Karina Smidt , Morais José Athayde Vasconcelos , Coelho Luísa Coutinho , Pacheco Thyago José Arruda , Azevedo Ricardo Bentes , Bocca Anamélia Lorenzetti , Melo-Silva César Augusto , Longo João Paulo Figueiró
Published: May 2022

Diets rich in omega-3 or -6 fatty acids will produce different profiles for cell membranes phospholipid constitutions. Omegas 3 and 6 are part of the diet and can modulate the inflammatory profile. We evaluated the effects of the oral absorption of fish oil, when associated with a lipid nanoemulsion in an experimental pulmonary inflammatory model. Pulmonary fibrosis is a disease associated with excessive extracellular matrix deposition. We determined to investigate the morphophysiological mechanisms in mice that were pretreated after induction with bleomycin (BLM). The pretreatment was for 21 days with saline solution, sunflower oil (SO), fish oil (FO), and fish oil nanoemulsion (NEW3). The animals received a daily dose of 50 mg/Kg of docosahexaenoic acid DHA and 10 mg/Kg eicosapentaenoic (EPA) (100 mg/Kg), represented by a daily dose of 40 µL of NEW3. The blank group was treated with the same amount daily (40 µL) during the 21 days of pretreatment. The animals were treated with SO and FO, 100 mg/Kg (containing 58 mg/Kg of polyunsaturated fats/higher% linoleic acid) and 100 mg/Kg (50 mg/Kg of DHA and 10 mg/Kg EPA), respectively. A single dose of 5 mg/mL (50 μL) bleomycin sulfate, by the intratracheal surgical method in BALB/cAnNTac (BALB/c). NEW3 significantly reduced fibrotic progression, which can be evidenced by the protection from loss of body mass, increase in respiratory incursions per minute, decreased spacing of alveolar septa, decreased severity of fibrosis, and changes in the respiratory system. NEW3 attenuated the inflammatory changes developed in the experimental model of pulmonary fibrosis, while group SO showed a significant increase in inflammatory changes. This concluded that the presented results demonstrated that is possible to positively modulate the immune and inflamamtory response to an external agressor, by changing the nutitional intake of specific fatty acids, such as omega-3 placed in fish oil. Moreover, these benefits can be improved by the nanoencapsulation of fish oil in lipid nanoemulsions.
Astaxanthin Influence on Health Outcomes of Adults at Risk of Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Leung Leona Yuen-Ling , Chan Sidney Man-Ngai , Tam Hon-Lon , Wong Emily Sze-Wan
Published: May 2022

The use of medication is effective in managing metabolic syndrome (MetS), but side effects have led to increased attention on using nutraceuticals and supplements. Astaxanthin shows positive effects in reducing the risk of MetS, but results from individual studies are inconclusive. This systematic review summarizes the latest evidence of astaxanthin in adults with risk factors of MetS. A systematic search of English and Chinese randomized controlled trials in 14 electronic databases from inception to 30 June 2021 was performed. Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts, and conducted full-text review, quality appraisal, and extraction of data. Risk of bias was assessed by PEDro. A total of 7 studies met the inclusion criteria with 321 participants. Six studies were rated to have excellent methodological quality, while the remaining one was rated at good. Results show marginal effects of astaxanthin on reduction in total cholesterol and systolic blood pressure, and a significant attenuating effect on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Further robust evidence is needed to examine the effects of astaxanthin in adults at risk of MetS.
Vitamin D Levels as an Important Predictor for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Weight Regain Post-Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Aladel Alanoud , Murphy Alice M. , Abraham Jenny , Shah Neha , Barber Thomas M. , Ball Graham , Menon Vinod , Piya Milan K. , McTernan Philip G.
Published: May 2022

Weight Loss Surgery (WLS), including sleeve-gastrectomy (SG), results in significant weight loss and improved metabolic health in severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2). Previous studies suggest post-operative health benefits are impacted by nutrient deficiencies, such as Vitamin D (25(OH)D) deficiency, while it is currently unknown whether nutrient levels may actually predict post-surgery outcomes. As such, this study investigated whether 25(OH)D levels could predict metabolic improvements in patients who underwent SG. Patients with severe obesity (n = 309; 75% female) undergoing SG participated in this ethics-approved, non-randomized retrospective cohort study. Anthropometry, clinical data, 25(OH)D levels and serum markers were collected at baseline, 6-, 12- and 18-months post-surgery. SG surgery resulted in significant improvements in metabolic health at 6- and 12-months post-surgery compared with baseline, as expected. Patients with higher baseline 25(OH)D had significantly lower HbA1c levels post-surgery (p < 0.01) and better post-surgical T2DM outcomes, including reduced weight regain (p < 0.05). Further analysis revealed that baseline 25(OH)D could predict HbA1c levels, weight regain and T2DM remission one-year post-surgery, accounting for 7.5% of HbA1c divergence (p < 0.01). These data highlight that higher circulating 25(OH)D levels are associated with significant metabolic health improvements post-surgery, notably, that such baseline levels are able to predict those who attain T2DM remission. This highlights the importance of 25(OH)D as a predictive biomarker of post-surgery benefits.
A Review on Rhubarb-Derived Substances as Modulators of Cardiovascular Risk Factors—A Special Emphasis on Anti-Obesity Action
Authors: Liudvytska Oleksandra , Kolodziejczyk-Czepas Joanna
Published: May 2022

The currently available anti-obesity therapies encounter many associated risks and side effects often causing the ineffectiveness of treatment. Therefore, various plant-derived substances have been extensively studied as a promising support or even an alternative for existing anti-obesity therapies. This review is dealing with the anti-obesity potential of edible and ethnomedicinal rhubarb species and emerging possible role of the rhubarb-derived extracts or individual compounds in the prevention of obesity and perspectives for their use in an anti-obesity treatment. A special emphasis is put on the most popular edible specimens, i.e., Rheum rhabarbarum L. (garden rhubarb) and Rheum rhaponticum L. (rhapontic rhubarb, Siberian rhubarb); however, the anti-obesity potential of other rhubarb species (e.g., R. officinale, R. palmatum, and R. emodi) is presented as well. The significance of rhubarb-derived extracts and low-molecular specialized rhubarb metabolites of diversified chemical background, e.g., anthraquinones and stilbenes, as potential modulators of human metabolism is highlighted, including the context of cardiovascular disease prevention. The available reports present multiple encouraging rhubarb properties starting from the anti-lipidemic action of rhubarb fibre or its use as purgative medicines, through various actions of rhubarb-derived extracts and their individual compounds: inhibition of enzymes of cholesterol and lipid metabolism, targeting of key molecular regulators of adipogenesis, regulators of cell energy metabolism, the ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory signalling pathways and to regulate glucose and lipid homeostasis contributing to overall in vivo and clinical anti-obesity effects.
Influence of Nutritional Status and Physical Exercise on Immune Response in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Lombardo Mauro , Feraco Alessandra , Bellia Chiara , Prisco Luigi , D’Ippolito Ilenia , Padua Elvira , Storz Maximilian , Lauro Davide , Caprio Massimiliano , Bellia Alfonso
Published: May 2022

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic alterations mostly related to visceral adiposity, which in turn promotes glucose intolerance and a chronic systemic inflammatory state, characterized by immune cell infiltration. Such immune system activation increases the risk of severe disease subsequent to viral infections. Strong correlations between elevated body mass index (BMI), type-2-diabetes and increased risk of hospitalization after pandemic influenza H1N1 infection have been described. Similarly, a correlation between elevated blood glucose level and SARS-CoV-2 infection severity and mortality has been described, indicating MetS as an important predictor of clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19. Adipose secretome, including two of the most abundant and well-studied adipokines, leptin and interleukin-6, is involved in the regulation of energy metabolism and obesity-related low-grade inflammation. Similarly, skeletal muscle hormones—called myokines—released in response to physical exercise affect both metabolic homeostasis and immune system function. Of note, several circulating hormones originate from both adipose tissue and skeletal muscle and display different functions, depending on the metabolic context. This review aims to summarize recent data in the field of exercise immunology, investigating the acute and chronic effects of exercise on myokines release and immune system function.
Dietary Copper and Selenium Intakes and the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Findings from the China Health and Nutrition Survey
Authors: Cui Zhixin , Zhou Haiyan , Liu Ke , Wu Man , Li Shun , Meng Shuangli , Meng Huicui
Published: May 2022

The long-term associations between dietary copper (Cu) and selenium (Se) intakes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk are unclear. We aimed to examine the prospective associations between dietary Cu and Se intakes and T2DM risk in Chinese adults. A total of 14,711 adults from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (1997–2015) were included. Nutrient intakes were assessed by 3 consecutive 24 h recalls and food-weighing methods. T2DM was identified by a validated questionnaire and laboratory examination. Cox regression models were used for statistical analysis. A total of 1040 T2DM cases were diagnosed during 147,142 person-years of follow-up. In fully adjusted models, dietary Cu or Se intake was not associated with T2DM risk. Dietary Se intake significantly modified the association between dietary Cu intake and T2DM risk, and dietary Cu intake was positively associated with T2DM risk when Se intake was lower than the median (p-interaction = 0.0292). There were no significant effect modifications on the associations by age, sex, BMI, or region. Although dietary Cu or Se intake was not independently associated with T2DM risk in Chinese adults free from cardiometabolic diseases and cancer at the baseline, there was a significant interaction between dietary Cu and Se intakes on T2DM risk.
The Cow’s Milk-Related Symptom Score (CoMiSS™): A Useful Awareness Tool
Authors: Bajerova Katerina , Salvatore Silvia , Dupont Christophe , Eigenmann Philippe , Kuitunen Mikael , Meyer Rosan , Ribes-Koninckx Carmen , Shamir Raanan , Szajewska Hania , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: May 2022

The Cow’s Milk-related Symptom Score (CoMiSS™) was developed as a clinical tool aimed at increasing the awareness of health care professionals for the presence and intensity of clinical manifestations possibly related to cow’s milk (CM) intake. This review summarizes current evidence on CoMiSS. We found twenty-five original studies, one pooled analysis of three studies, and two reviews on CoMiSS. Infants exhibiting symptoms possibly related to CM, present with a higher median CoMiSS (6 to 13; 16 studies) than apparently healthy infants (median from 3 to 4; and mean 3.6–4.7; 5 studies). In children with cow’s milk allergy (CMA), 11 studies found that a CoMiSS of ≥12 predicted a favorable response to a CM-free diet; however, sensitivity (20% to 77%) and specificity (54% to 92%) varied. The decrease of CoMiSS during a CM elimination diet was also predictive of a reaction to an oral food challenge to diagnose CMA. A low CoMiSS (<6) was predictive for the absence of CMA. It was shown that no special training is required to use the tool in a reliable way. Intra-rater reliability was high with very low variability (intra-class correlation 0.93; 95% confidence interval 0.90–0.96; p < 0.001) in repeated assessments. This review found that CoMiSS cannot be considered as a stand-alone CMA diagnostic tool, but that it is a useful awareness tool for CMA as well as for monitoring symptom improvement.
Short-Term Pilot Study to Evaluate the Impact of Salbi Educa Nutrition App in Macronutrients Intake and Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Gonzalez-Ramirez Marina , Sanchez-Carrera Rocio , Cejudo-Lopez Angela , Lozano-Navarrete Mauricio , Salamero Sánchez-Gabriel Elena , Torres-Bengoa M. Alfonso , Segura-Balbuena Manuel , Sanchez-Cordero Maria J. , Barroso-Vazquez Mercedes , Perez-Barba Francisco J. , Troncoso Ana M. , Garcia-Parrilla M. Carmen , Cerezo Ana B.
Published: May 2022

Promoting a healthy diet is a relevant strategy for preventing non-communicable diseases. This study aims to evaluate the impact of an innovative tool, the SAlBi educa nutrition app, in primary healthcare dietary counseling to improve dietary profiles as well as adherence to the Mediterranean diet. A multi-center randomized control trial comprising 104 participants was performed. Both control (n = 49) and intervention (n = 55) groups attended four once-weekly sessions focusing on healthy eating habits and physical activity, over one month. As well as attending the meetings, the intervention group used the app, which provides self-monitoring and tailored dietary advice based on the Mediterranean diet model. In a second intervention (one arm trial), the potential of SAlBi educa was evaluated for three months during the COVID-19 pandemic. At 4 weeks, the intervention group had significantly increased their carbohydrate intake (7.7% (95% CI: 0.16 to 15.2)) and decreased their total fat intake (−5.7% (95% CI: −10.4 to −1.15)) compared to the control group. Significant differences were also found for carbohydrates (3.5% (95% CI: −1.0 to 5.8)), total fats (−5.9% (95% CI: −8.9 to −3.0)), fruits and vegetables (266.3 g/day (95% CI: 130.0 to 402.6)), legumes (7.7g/day (95% CI: 0.2 to 15.1)), starchy foods (36.4 g/day (95% CI: 1.1 to 71.7)), red meat (−17.5 g/day (95% CI: −34.0 to −1.1)), and processed meat (−6.6 g/day (95% CI: −13.1 to −0.1)) intakes during the COVID-19 pandemic. SAlBi educa is a useful tool to support nutrition counseling in primary healthcare, including in special situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Trial registration: ISRCTN57186362.
Effects of Iron Supplementation on Testicular Function and Spermatogenesis of Iron-Deficient Rats
Authors: Tsao Chih-Wei , Liao Yuan-Ru , Chang Ting-Chia , Liew Yih-Fong , Liu Chin-Yu
Published: May 2022

Iron deficiency is the most common micronutrient deficiency in the world. Previous studies have shown that iron deficiency increases oxidative stress and decreases antioxidant enzymes, and studies of male infertility indicated that oxidative stress may affect male reproductive functions. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of iron supplementation on spermatogenesis and testicular functions in iron-deficient rats. Three-week-old male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into two groups: an iron-adequate control (AI group, 35 ppm FeSO4) and an iron-deficient group (ID group, <5 ppm FeSO4). After three weeks, the iron-deficient group was divided into an original iron-deficient group and five iron-supplemented groups, the latter fed diets containing different doses of FeSO4 (6, 12, 18, 24, and 35 ppm). After five weeks, blood and testis tissue were analyzed. We presented as median (interquartile range, IQR) for continuous measurements and compared their differences using the Kruskal–Wallis test followed by the Mann–Whitney U test among groups. The results showed that as compared with the AI group, the ID group had significantly lower serum testosterone and poorer spermatogenesis (The medians (QR) were 187.4 (185.6–190.8) of AI group vs. 87.5 (85.7–90.4) of ID group in serum testosterone, p < 0.05; 9.3 (8.8–10.6) of AI group vs. 4.9 (3.4–5.4) of ID group in mean testicular biopsy score (MTBS], p < 0.05); iron supplementation reversed the impairment of testis tissue. In the testosterone biosynthesis pathway, iron supplementation improved the lowered protein expressions of hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases caused by iron deficiency. Additionally, decreased activities of glutathione peroxidase and catalase, and increased cleaved-caspase 8 and caspase 3 expression, were found in the iron-deficient rats. The iron-supplemented rats that received > 12 ppm FeSO4 exhibited improvements in antioxidant levels. In conclusion, iron supplementation can abrogate testis dysfunction due to iron deficiency through regulation of the testicular antioxidant capacity.
Resting-State Functional Connectivity Differences in College Students with and without Food Insecurity
Authors: Guerithault Nicolas , McClure Samuel M. , Ojinnaka Chinedum O. , Braden B. Blair , Bruening Meg
Published: May 2022

We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate cross-sectional differences in functional connectivity across cognitive networks at rest among age and sex matched college students with very low food security [food insecurity (FI); n = 20] and with high food security (n = 20). The participants completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-2 (BRIEF-2) and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) questionnaires. Seven-minute resting-state fMRI scans were collected. Independent Component Analysis assessed group connectivity differences in three large-scale networks: the default-mode network (DMN), the frontoparietal network (FPN), and the salience network (SN). FI was associated with poorer Global BRIEF scores (adjusted β = 8.36; 95% CI: 2.32, 14.40) and five BRIEF subscales: Inhibit, Initiate, Working Memory, Plan, and Organize (p-values < 0.05). The students with FI had greater functional connectivity between the FPN and left middle temporal gyrus (cluster size p-FWE = 0.029), the SN and precuneus (cluster size p-FWE < 0.001), and the SN and right middle frontal gyrus (cluster size p-FWE = 0.016) compared to the students with high food security. Exploratory correlations revealed that greater connectivity between the SN and right middle frontal gyrus was associated with poorer BRIEF Inhibit scores (p = 0.038), and greater connectivity between the FPN and left middle temporal gyrus was associated with poorer BRIEF Organize scores (p = 0.024) for the students with FI. Greater functional connectivity between the FPN, DMN, and SN at rest may contribute to executive function difficulties for college students with FI.
Preventing Gestational Diabetes Mellitus by Improving Healthy Diet and/or Physical Activity during Pregnancy: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Kouiti Malak , Hernández-Muñiz Cristian , Youlyouz-Marfak Ibtissam , Salcedo-Bellido Inmaculada , Mozas-Moreno Juan , Jiménez-Moleón José
Published: May 2022

Several epidemiological studies have analyzed the effects of lifestyle modification on reducing the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM); however, their results remain inconsistent. This umbrella review aims to evaluate the effects of diet and/or physical activity interventions during pregnancy on preventing GDM. Systematic reviews and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials reporting preventive effects of diet and/or physical activity in reducing the incidence of GDM were included from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane library. Two authors independently assessed the overlapping and quality of the 35 selected reviews using AMSTAR 2. The results, although variable, tend to defend the protective role of diet and physical activity interventions separately and independently of each other in the prevention of GDM. However, the results for the combined interventions show a possible protective effect; however, it is not entirely clear because most of the analyzed meta-analyses tend to approach 1, and heterogeneity cannot be ruled out. Establishing conclusions about the most efficient type of intervention and a dose–effect relationship was not feasible given the low quality of systematic reviews (83% low to critically low) and the variability in reporting interventions. Therefore, more studies with better quality and definition of the interventions are required. The protocol was previously registered in PROSPERO as CRD42021237895.
Novel Giomers Incorporated with Antibacterial Quaternary Ammonium Monomers to Inhibit Secondary Caries
Authors: Chen Yandi , Yang Bina , Cheng Lei , Xu Hockin H. K. , Li Hao , Huang Yuyao , Zhang Qiong , Zhou Xuedong , Liang Jingou , Zou Jing
Published: May 2022

The objective of this study was to develop novel modified giomers by incorporating the antibacterial quaternary ammonium monomers (QAMs), dimethylaminododecyl methacrylate (DMADDM) or dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM) into a commercial giomer. The material performances including mechanical properties, surface characteristics, color data, cytotoxicity and fluoride release of the novel giomers were evaluated. Antibacterial activity against severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) saliva-derived biofilms was assessed by lactic acid production measurement, MTT assay, biofilm staining and 16S rRNA sequencing. A rat model was developed and the anti-caries effect was investigated by micro-CT scanning and modified Keyes’ scoring. The results showed that the material properties of the QAMs groups were comparable to those of the control group. The novel giomers significantly inhibited lactic acid production and biofilm viability of S-ECC saliva-derived biofilms. Furthermore, caries-related genera such as Streptococcus and Lactobacillus reduced in QAMs groups, which showed their potential to change the microbial compositions. In the rat model, lesion depth, mineral loss and scoring of the QAMs groups were significantly reduced, without side effects on oral tissues. In conclusion, the novel giomers incorporated with antibacterial QAMs could inhibit the cariogenic biofilms and help prevent secondary caries, with great potential for future application in restorative treatment.
Exploring the Relationship between Salivary Levels of TNF-α, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Obesity, and Caries in Early Childhood
Authors: Leme Lúcia Aparecida Federighi Pereira , Rizzardi Karina Ferreira , Santos Isis Bolsonaro , Parisotto Thaís Manzano
Published: May 2022

This research aimed to explore the relationship between tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus), Lactobacillus gasseri (L. gasseri), obesity, and early childhood caries. After caries and obesity diagnosis based on the WHO criteria, 94 preschoolers were assessed. Unstimulated saliva was collected for analysis of TNF-α by the Milliplex system and for L. acidophilus and L. gasseri using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). In obese children, each unit increase in the body mass index (BMI), and the TNF-α levels was associated with a one-time increase in the number of decayed surfaces (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, in eutrophic preschoolers, the presence of L. gasseri and L. acidophilus was linked, respectively, to an increase of 3.04 and 1.59 times in the number of decayed surfaces (p < 0.05); in obese children, the presence of L. acidophilus was not significant (p > 0.05) and L. gasseri was shown as a possible protective indicator (RR:0.49–p < 0.05). In conclusion, TNF-α and BMI were connected to carious lesions only in obese preschoolers, suggesting that inflammation could be underscored when both pathologies are concomitant. The presence of both species of lactobacilli investigated was connected with early childhood caries in eutrophic children, whereas in obese children only L. gasseri was significant, and in an opposite way, reinforcing that obesity can modulate oral bacteria.
Through the Looking Glass: Genome, Phenome, and Interactome of Salmonella enterica
Authors: Guard Jean
Published: May 2022

This review revisits previous concepts on biological phenomenon contributing to the success of the Salmonella enterica subspecies I as a pathogen and expands upon them to include progress in epidemiology based on whole genome sequencing (WGS). Discussion goes beyond epidemiological uses of WGS to consider how phenotype, which is the biological character of an organism, can be correlated with its genotype to develop a knowledge of the interactome. Deciphering genome interactions with proteins, the impact of metabolic flux, epigenetic modifications, and other complex biochemical processes will lead to new therapeutics, control measures, environmental remediations, and improved design of vaccines.
Utilization of Aloe Compounds in Combatting Viral Diseases
Authors: Españo Erica , Kim Jiyeon , Kim Jeong-Ki
Published: May 2022

Plants contain underutilized resources of compounds that can be employed to combat viral diseases. Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. (syn. Aloe barbadensis Mill.) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and A. vera extracts have been reported to possess a huge breadth of pharmacological activities. Here, we discuss the potential of A. vera compounds as antivirals and immunomodulators for the treatment of viral diseases. In particular, we highlight the use of aloe emodin and acemannan as lead compounds that should be considered for further development in the management and prevention of viral diseases. Given the immunomodulatory capacity of A. vera compounds, especially those found in Aloe gel, we also put forward the idea that these compounds should be considered as adjuvants for viral vaccines. Lastly, we present some of the current limitations to the clinical applications of compounds from Aloe, especially from A. vera.
Polysaccharide-Based Transdermal Drug Delivery
Authors: Li Jingyuan , Xiang Hong , Zhang Qian , Miao Xiaoqing
Published: May 2022

Materials derived from natural plants and animals have great potential for transdermal drug delivery. Polysaccharides are widely derived from marine, herbal, and microbial sources. Compared with synthetic polymers, polysaccharides have the advantages of non-toxicity and biodegradability, ease of modification, biocompatibility, targeting, and antibacterial properties. Currently, polysaccharide-based transdermal drug delivery vehicles, such as hydrogel, film, microneedle (MN), and tissue scaffolds are being developed. The addition of polysaccharides allows these vehicles to exhibit better-swelling properties, mechanical strength, tensile strength, etc. Due to the stratum corneum’s resistance, the transdermal drug delivery system cannot deliver drugs as efficiently as desired. The charge and hydration of polysaccharides allow them to react with the skin and promote drug penetration. In addition, polysaccharide-based nanotechnology enhances drug utilization efficiency. Various diseases are currently treated by polysaccharide-based transdermal drug delivery devices and exhibit promising futures. The most current knowledge on these excellent materials will be thoroughly discussed by reviewing polysaccharide-based transdermal drug delivery strategies.
Novel Soloxolone Amides as Potent Anti-Glioblastoma Candidates: Design, Synthesis, In Silico Analysis and Biological Activities In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Markov Andrey V. , Ilyina Anna A. , Salomatina Oksana V. , Sen’kova Aleksandra V. , Okhina Alina A. , Rogachev Artem D. , Salakhutdinov Nariman F. , Zenkova Marina A.
Published: May 2022

The modification of natural or semisynthetic triterpenoids with amines can be explored as a promising strategy for improving their pharmacological properties. Here, we report the design and synthesis of 11 novel amide derivatives of soloxolone methyl (SM), a cyano enone-bearing derivative of 18βH-glycyrrhetinic acid. Analysis of their bioactivities in vitro and in silico revealed their high toxicity against a panel of tumor cells (average IC50(24h) = 3.7 µM) and showed that the formation of amide moieties at the C-30 position of soloxolone did not enhance the cytotoxicity of derivatives toward tumor cells compared to SM, though it can impart an ability to pass across the blood–brain barrier. Further HPLC–MS/MS and mechanistic studies verified significant brain accumulation of hit compound 12 (soloxolone tryptamide) in a murine model and showed its high anti-glioblastoma potential. It was found that 12 induced ROS-dependent and autophagy-independent death of U87 and U118 glioblastoma cells via mitochondrial apoptosis and effectively blocked their clonogenicity, motility and capacity to form vessel-like structures. Further in vivo study demonstrated that intraperitoneal injection of 12 at a dosage of 20 mg/kg effectively inhibited the growth of U87 glioblastoma in a mouse xenograft model, reducing the proliferative potential of the tumor and leading to a depletion of collagen content and normalization of blood vessels in tumor tissue. The obtained results clearly demonstrate that 12 can be considered as a promising leading compound for drug development in glioblastoma treatment.
Liquid Crystal Nanoparticle Conjugates for Scavenging Reactive Oxygen Species in Live Cells
Authors: Nag Okhil K. , Naciri Jawad , Lee Kwahun , Oh Eunkeu , Almeida Bethany , Delehanty James B.
Published: May 2022

The elevated intracellular production of or extracellular exposure to reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes oxidative stress to cells, resulting in deleterious irreversible biomolecular reactions (e.g., lipid peroxidation) and disease progression. The use of low-molecular weight antioxidants, such as 4-amino-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO), as ROS scavengers fails to achieve the desired efficacy because of their poor or uncontrolled cellular uptake and off-target effects, such as dysfunction of essential redox homeostasis. In this study, we fabricated a liquid crystal nanoparticle (LCNP) conjugate system with the fluorescent dye perylene (PY) loaded in the interior and poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) decorated on the surface along with multiple molecules of TEMPO (PY-LCNP-PEG/TEMPO). PY-LCNP-PEG/TEMPO exhibit enhanced cellular uptake, and efficient ROS-scavenging activity in live cells. On average, the 120 nm diameter PY-LCNPs were conjugated with >1800 molecules of TEMPO moieties on their surface. PY-LCNP-PEG/TEMPO showed significantly greater reduction in ROS activity and lipid peroxidation compared to free TEMPO when the cells were challenged with ROS generating agents, such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). We suggest that this is due to the increased local concentration of TEMPO molecules on the surface of the PY-LCNP-PEG/TEMPO NPs, which efficiently bind to the plasma membrane and enter cells. Overall, these results demonstrate the enhanced capability of TEMPO-conjugated LCNPs to protect live cells from oxidative stress by effectively scavenging ROS and reducing lipid peroxidation.