bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Interplay of Iron Minerals and Microflora to Accelerate Cr (VI) Reduction
Authors: Zhu Jinglei , Lei Pan , Liu Mengfei , He Peng , Chen Yaozong , Gan Min , Zhu Jianyu
Published: April 2022

Widespread hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI)) in the environment has become a worldwide problem, and economical and efficient treatment is urgently needed. In this paper, the treatment method of Cr (VI) by microorganisms and iron minerals (pyrite and magnetite) under anaerobic conditions was investigated. Furthermore, the influence of Cr (VI) on the microbial community structure was explored. The reduction test demonstrated that the removal rate of Cr (VI) in a single biological group was 54.96%; however, in the pyrite and biological groups and magnetite and biological groups, the removal rates of Cr (VI) increased to 83.06% and 78.23%, respectively. Microorganisms and iron minerals work together to produce a better removal effect on the removal rate of Cr (VI). Mechanistic studies have found that in the process of Cr (VI) reduction, a passivation layer is formed on the surface of the mineral that hinders the progress of the reaction. The addition of bacteria can reduce the negative impact of the passivation layer. At the same time, iron minerals have better electron-receiving and -conducting ability and can be used as electron carriers for bacteria to reduce Cr (VI). In addition, iron minerals and the disappearance of Cr (VI) will change the structure of the community and affect the expression of its functions, which is more conducive to reducing Cr (VI). This work sheds new light on the treatment of heavy metal pollution and the understanding of the synergistic reduction mechanism of Cr (VI).
Development of New Thiophene-Containing Triaryl Pyrazoline Derivatives as PI3Kγ Inhibitors
Authors: Yang Bing , Zhang Bo , Zhao Qun , Li Jin , Shi Yujun
Published: April 2022

A series of new thiophene-containing triaryl pyrazoline derivatives, 3a–3t, were synthesized and evaluated regarding PI3K inhibition activity and anti-tumor potency based on a trial of introducing significant moieties, including pyrazoline and thiophene, and simplifying the parallel ring structures. Most of the tested compounds indicated potent PI3K inhibitory potency, with this series of compounds showing more potency for PI3Kγ than PI3Kα. The top hit 3s seemed more potent than the positive control LY294002 on inhibiting PI3Kγ (IC50 values: 0.066 μM versus 0.777 μM) and more selective from PI3Kα (Index values: 645 versus 1.74). It could be inferred that the combination of para- and meta-, as well as the modification of the electron-donating moieties, led to the improvement in potency. The anti-proliferation inhibitory activity and the enzymatic inhibition potency indicated consistent tendencies. The top hit 3s could inhibit the phosphorylation of Akt by inhibiting PI3K through the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway. The molecular docking simulation indicated that the binding pattern of 3s into PI3Kγ was preferable than that of PI3Kα, with more hydrogen bond, more π-involved interactions, and fewer π-sulfur interactions. The information in this work is referable for the further development of selective inhibitors for specific isoforms of PI3K.
Isotope Effects on Chemical Shifts in the Study of Hydrogen Bonds in Small Molecules
Authors: Hansen Poul Erik
Published: April 2022

This review is giving a short introduction to the techniques used to investigate isotope effects on NMR chemical shifts. The review is discussing how isotope effects on chemical shifts can be used to elucidate the importance of either intra- or intermolecular hydrogen bonding in ionic liquids, of ammonium ions in a confined space, how isotope effects can help define dimers, trimers, etc., how isotope effects can lead to structural parameters such as distances and give information about ion pairing. Tautomerism is by advantage investigated by isotope effects on chemical shifts both in symmetric and asymmetric systems. The relationship between hydrogen bond energies and two-bond deuterium isotope effects on chemical shifts is described. Finally, theoretical calculations to obtain isotope effects on chemical shifts are looked into.
Postdiagenetic Changes in Kerogen Properties and Type by Bacterial Oxidation and Dehydrogenation
Authors: Wilamowska Agnieszka , Koblowska Marta , Matlakowska Renata
Published: April 2022

A significant part of organic carbon found on the earth is deposited as fossil organic matter in the lithosphere. The most important reservoir of carbon is shale rocks enriched with organic matter in the form of kerogen created during diagenesis. The purpose of this study was to analyze whether the bacterial communities currently inhabiting the shale rocks have had any impact on the properties and type of kerogen. We used the shale rock located on the Fore-Sudetic Monocline, which is characterized by oil-prone kerogen type II. We were able to show that shale rock inhabited by bacterial communities are characterized by oxidized and dehydrated kerogen type III (gas-prone) and type IV (nonproductive, residual, and hydrogen-free). Bacterial communities inhabiting shale rock were dominated by heterotrophs of the Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria phyla. Additionally, we detected a number of protein sequences in the metaproteomes of bacterial communities matched with enzymes involved in the oxidative metabolism of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, which may potentially contribute to the postdiagenetic oxidation and dehydrogenation of kerogen. The kerogen transformation contributes to the mobilization of fossil carbon in the form of extractable bitumen dominated by oxidized organic compounds.
Tumor Tropic Delivery of Hyaluronic Acid-Poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) Polymeric Micelles Using Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Glioma Therapy
Authors: Wang Xiao-Ling , Zhao Wen-Zheng , Fan Jia-Ze , Jia Le-Chen , Lu Ya-Nan , Zeng Ling-Hui , Lv Yuan-Yuan , Sun Xiao-Yi
Published: April 2022

Tumor penetration and the accumulation of nanomedicines are crucial challenges in solid tumor therapy. By taking advantage of the MSC tumor-tropic property, we developed a mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based drug delivery system in which paclitaxel (PTX)-encapsulating hyaluronic acid-poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) polymeric micelles (PTX/HA-PLGA micelles) were loaded for glioma therapy. The results indicated that CD44 overexpressed on the surface of both MSCs and tumor cells not only improved PTX/HA-PLGA micelle loading in MSCs, but also promoted the drug transfer between MSCs and adjacent cancer cells. It was hypothesized that CD44-mediated transcytosis played a crucial role and allowed deep glioma penetration depending on sequential intra–intercellular delivery via endocytosis–exocytosis. MSC-micelles were able to infiltrate from normal brain parenchyma towards contralateral tumors and led to the eradication of glioma. The survival of orthotopic glioma-bearing rats was significantly extended. In conclusion, the MSC-based delivery of HA-PLGA micelles is a potential strategy for tumor-targeting drug delivery.
Seasonal Variability and Effect of Sample Storage on Volatile Components in Calypogeia azurea
Authors: Guzowska Małgorzata , Wawrzyniak Rafał , Wasiak Wiesław
Published: April 2022

A change in the composition of specialized metabolites is often observed in stressed plants. Phytochemicals play an important role in adapting plants to the environment, particularly overcoming stress conditions such as temperature, humidity, and light intensity. In this study, seasonal variations in the concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were analysed in species of Calypogeia azurea. The article presents the effect of sample storage on volatile organic compounds present in Calypogeia liverwort cells and whether the collection habitats of the sample affect the content of phytochemicals. The VOCs of the species within the liverwort Calypogeia azurea were analysed by GC-MS. Compounds were isolated from plant material using the HS-SPME technique. The samples were collected over several years (2019–2021). Of the several dozen samples collected, 79 compounds were isolated, of which 47 were identified.
Synthesis of Deuterium-Labeled Vitamin D Metabolites as Internal Standards for LC-MS Analysis
Authors: Nagata Akiko , Iijima Kazuto , Sakamoto Ryota , Mizumoto Yuka , Iwaki Miho , Takiwaki Masaki , Kikutani Yoshikuni , Fukuzawa Seketsu , Odagi Minami , Tera Masayuki , Nagasawa Kazuo
Published: April 2022

Blood levels of the vitamin D3 (D3) metabolites 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3), 24R,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, and 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) are recognized indicators for the diagnosis of bone metabolism-related diseases, D3 deficiency-related diseases, and hypercalcemia, and are generally measured by liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) using an isotope dilution method. However, other D3 metabolites, such as 20-hydroxyvitamin D3 and lactone D3, also show interesting biological activities and stable isotope-labeled derivatives are required for LC-MS/MS analysis of their concentrations in serum. Here, we describe a versatile synthesis of deuterium-labeled D3 metabolites using A-ring synthons containing three deuterium atoms. Deuterium-labeled 25(OH)D3 (2), 25(OH)D3-23,26-lactone (6), and 1,25(OH)2D3-23,26-lactone (7) were synthesized, and successfully applied as internal standards for the measurement of these compounds in pooled human serum. This is the first quantification of 1,25(OH)2D3-23,26-lactone (7) in human serum.
Antioxidant and Antiglycation Effects of Cistus × incanus Water Infusion, Its Phenolic Components, and Respective Metabolites
Authors: Bernacka Karolina , Bednarska Katarzyna , Starzec Aneta , Mazurek Sylwester , Fecka Izabela
Published: April 2022

Reactive oxygen and carbonyl species promote oxidative and carbonyl stress, and the development of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and others. The traditional herb Cistus × incanus is known for its antioxidant properties; therefore, the current study aimed to assess how the chemical composition of a C. incanus water infusion corresponds with its antioxidative and antiglycative effects in vitro. The composition of infusions prepared from commercial products was analyzed with UHPLC-ESI-qTOF-MS. Total phenolics, flavonoids, and non-flavonoid polyphenols were determined. Antioxidant activity of infusions and selected polyphenols was investigated using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP. Fluorometric measurements and methylglyoxal capture were performed to investigate the antiglycation activity. PCA and PLS-DA models were applied to explore the correlation between chemical and antioxidant results. The principal flavonoids in C. incanus were flavonols. In vitro tests revealed that a stronger antioxidant effect was demonstrated by plant material from Turkey rich in flavonoids, followed by Albania and Greece. Flavonols and ellagic acid displayed stronger antiradical and reducing power than EA-derived urolithins. Hyperoside was the most potent inhibitor of glycation. The results indicate that flavonoids are primarily responsible for rock rose antioxidant and antiglycation properties. PLS-DA modeling can be used to identify the origin of plant material with sensitivity and specificity exceeding 86%.
In Vitro and In Silico Studies of Human Tyrosyl-DNA Phosphodiesterase 1 (Tdp1) Inhibition by Stereoisomeric Forms of Lipophilic Nucleosides: The Role of Carbohydrate Stereochemistry in Ligand-Enzyme Interactions
Authors: Dyrkheeva Nadezhda S. , Chernyshova Irina A. , Ivanov Georgy A. , Porozov Yuri B. , Zenchenko Anastasia A. , Oslovsky Vladimir E. , Zakharenko Alexandra L. , Nasyrova Darina I. , Likhatskaya Galina N. , Mikhailov Sergey N. , Lavrik Olga I. , Drenichev Mikhail S.
Published: April 2022

Inhibition of human DNA repair enzyme tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (Tdp1) by different chiral lipophilic nucleoside derivatives was studied. New Tdp1 inhibitors were found in the series of the studied compounds with IC50 = 2.7–6.7 μM. It was shown that D-lipophilic nucleoside derivatives manifested higher inhibition activity than their L-analogs, and configuration of the carbohydrate moiety can influence the mechanism of Tdp1 inhibition.
Developing CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Fluorescent Reporter Human Pluripotent Stem-Cell Lines for High-Content Screening
Authors: Vojnits Kinga , Nakanishi Mio , Porras Deanna , Kim Yeonjoon , Feng Zhuohang , Golubeva Diana , Bhatia Mick
Published: April 2022

Application of the CRISPR/Cas9 system to knock in fluorescent proteins to endogenous genes of interest in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) has the potential to facilitate hPSC-based disease modeling, drug screening, and optimization of transplantation therapy. To evaluate the capability of fluorescent reporter hPSC lines for high-content screening approaches, we targeted EGFP to the endogenous OCT4 locus. Resulting hPSC–OCT4–EGFP lines generated expressed EGFP coincident with pluripotency markers and could be adapted to multi-well formats for high-content screening (HCS) campaigns. However, after long-term culture, hPSCs transiently lost their EGFP expression. Alternatively, through EGFP knock-in to the AAVS1 locus, we established a stable and consistent EGFP-expressing hPSC–AAVS1–EGFP line that maintained EGFP expression during in vitro hematopoietic and neural differentiation. Thus, hPSC–AAVS1–EGFP-derived sensory neurons could be adapted to a high-content screening platform that can be applied to high-throughput small-molecule screening and drug discovery campaigns. Our observations are consistent with recent findings indicating that high-frequency on-target complexities appear following CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing at the OCT4 locus. In contrast, we demonstrate that the AAVS1 locus is a safe genomic location in hPSCs with high gene expression that does not impact hPSC quality and differentiation. Our findings suggest that the CRISPR/Cas9-integrated AAVS1 system should be applied for generating stable reporter hPSC lines for long-term HCS approaches, and they underscore the importance of careful evaluation and selection of the applied reporter cell lines for HCS purposes.
Sensitive Assay for the Lactonase Activity of Serum Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) by Harnessing the Fluorescence Turn-On Characteristics of Bioorthogonally Synthesized and Geometrically Controlled Chemical Probes
Authors: Fang Bo-Kai , Dai Chia-Yen , Severance Scott , Hwang Chi-Ching , Huang Chien-Hui , Hou Sin-Yu , Yeh Bao-Lin , Gong Ming-Mao , Chou Yun-Hao , Wang Jeh-Jeng , Wang Tzu-Pin
Published: April 2022

The lactonase activity of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) has a crucial antiatherogenic function, and also serves as an important biochemical marker in human blood because the aberrant lactonase activity of PON1 is a key indicator for a number of diverse human diseases. However, no sensitive fluorescence assays that detect PON1 lactonase activity are available. We report the synthesis of two fluorescence turn-on chemical probes 16a and 16b (16) able to quantify PON1 lactonase activity. The chemical probes were constructed utilizing a disulfide-containing bicyclononyne, derivatives of rhodamine B and carboxyfluorescein, and reactions including copper-free azide–alkyne cycloaddition. Fluorescence quenching in 16 was characterized by spectroscopic studies and was mainly attributed to the effect of contact quenching. Kinetic analysis of 16b confirmed the outstanding reactivity and specificity of 16b with thiols in the presence of general base catalysts. The 16b-based assay was employed to determine PON1 lactonase activity, with a linear range of 10.8–232.1 U L−1 and detection limit (LOD) of 10.8 U L−1, to quantify serum PON1 activity in human sera, and to determine the Ki of 20.9 μM for the 2-hydroxyquinoline inhibition of PON1 lactonase. We are employing 16b to develop high-throughput assays for PON1 lactonase activity.
Effects of Shape Anisotropy on Hard–Soft Exchange-Coupled Permanent Magnets
Authors: Yang Zhi , Chen Yuanyuan , Liu Weiqiang , Wang Yatao , Li Yuqing , Zhang Dongtao , Lu Qingmei , Wu Qiong , Zhang Hongguo , Yue Ming
Published: April 2022

Exchange-coupled magnets are promising candidates for a new generation of permanent magnets. Here, we investigated the effect of soft magnetic shell thickness and the aspect ratio of the hard magnetic core on the magnetic properties for isolated core/shell cylinder exchange-coupled magnets, as well as the packing effect of the cylindrical array via a micromagnetic simulation method. It was found that the shape anisotropy contributions to the magnetic properties in the cylindrical core/shell exchange-coupled magnets are closely related to the thickness of the soft magnetic shell. When the soft magnetic shell is thin, the magnetic properties are dominated by the hard–soft exchange coupling effects, and the contributions of shape anisotropy are quite limited. When the soft magnetic shell is relatively thick, utilizing shape anisotropy would be an effective method to improve the magnetic performance of hard–soft exchange-coupled magnets. The present work provides an in-depth fundamental understanding of the underlying magnetization reversal mechanism. This work could be useful for designing high-performance permanent magnets and avoiding pitfalls.
The Synergistic Effect of WS2 and SWNTs on Tribological Performance of Polyether MDI Polyurethane Elastomer under Dry and Wet Friction Conditions
Authors: Lu Gang , Shuai Changgeng , Liu Yinsong , Yang Xue , Hu Xiaoyang
Published: April 2022

To adapt to the complex application of polyurethane bearings, it is feasible to improve the tribological performance of single polyurethane-based friction materials through the synergistic effect produced by multi-component-lubricating fillers. In this context, rather than using tungsten disulfide (WS2), which has demonstrated excellent self-lubricating performance as a lubricating oil additive, this paper proposes that WS2 and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) can be designed for addition into a polyether 4,4′-diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) polyurethane matrix as self-lubricating fillers so as to explore the synergistic effect of micro- and nano-lubricating fillers on the tribological performance of polyurethane matrix materials. Through a series of characterizations and tests, it was found that the dispersion of two-component-lubricating additives in a polyurethane matrix is improved when the ratio of WS2 to SWNTs is roughly 2:1. In this case, the tribological performance of polyurethane matrix composites is more satisfactory than at other ratios. In addition, compared with the blank sample, the tribological performance of the synergistically modified polyurethane composites under dry friction is more significantly improved with the increase in contact load, while there is no significant improvement under water lubrication. Aside from contributing to the idea of exploring the synergistic effect of WS2 and other micro or nanofillers, this method also opens up the possibility of practically applying WS2 in the field of friction.
A First-Principles Study on the Multilayer Graphene Nanosheets Anode Performance for Boron-Ion Battery
Authors: Umar Mustapha , Nnadiekwe Chidera C. , Haroon Muhammad , Abdulazeez Ismail , Alhooshani Khalid , Al-Saadi Abdulaziz A. , Peng Qing
Published: April 2022

Advanced battery materials are urgently desirable to meet the rapidly growing demand for portable electronics and power. The development of a high-energy-density anode is essential for the practical application of B3+ batteries as an alternative to Li-ion batteries. Herein, we have investigated the performance of B3+ on monolayer (MG), bilayer (BG), trilayer (TG), and tetralayer (TTG) graphene sheets using first-principles calculations. The findings reveal significant stabilization of the HOMO and the LUMO frontier orbitals of the graphene sheets upon adsorption of B3+ by shifting the energies from −5.085 and −2.242 eV in MG to −20.08 and −19.84 eV in 2B3+@TTG. Similarly, increasing the layers to tetralayer graphitic carbon B3+@TTG_asym and B3+@TTG_sym produced the most favorable and deeper van der Waals interactions. The cell voltages obtained were considerably enhanced, and B3+/B@TTG showed the highest cell voltage of 16.5 V. Our results suggest a novel avenue to engineer graphene anode performance by increasing the number of graphene layers.
Electrospun Cellulose-Acetate/Chitosan Fibers for Humic-Acid Removal: Improved Efficiency and Robustness with a Core-Sheath Design
Authors: Zhang Yirong , Wang Yixiang
Published: April 2022

Recycling biomass waste into functional materials has attracted much attention, and a rational structural design can make more effective use of each component. In our previous work, the fabrication of electrospun cellulose-acetate (CA)/chitosan (CS) adsorbents for humic-acid (HA) removal guided by the intermolecular interaction mechanism was demonstrated. Herein, a core-sheath structure was designed via one-step co-axial electrospinning, where a mixture of CS and CA was employed as the sheath layer to efficiently adsorb HA, and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) derived from waste cotton fabrics were incorporated into the CA core as load-bearing components. Compared to the non-layered electrospun CS/CA fibers, all the CS/CA–CNC fibers with a core-sheath structure exhibited smaller diameters, greater homogeneity, and significantly improved mechanical strength. Meanwhile, their maximum adsorption capacities towards HA had no significant differences. Even after the complete hydrolysis of CA into cellulose, the electrospun fibers maintained the fibrous structures and showed a higher tensile strength while exhibiting an acceptable adsorption capacity towards HA. Therefore, this work demonstrates the importance of rational design in the efficient preparation of functional materials and the feasibility of using electrospun core-sheath fibers derived from biomass wastes for the removal of water contaminants.
High-Performance Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrates Based on the ZnO/Ag Core-Satellite Nanostructures
Authors: Sun Qianqian , Xu Yujie , Gao Zhicheng , Zhou Hang , Zhang Qian , Xu Ruichong , Zhang Chao , Yao Haizi , Liu Mei
Published: April 2022

Recently, hierarchical hybrid structures based on the combination of semiconductor micro/nanostructures and noble metal nanoparticles have become a hot research topic in the area of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). In this work, two core-satellite nanostructures of metal oxide/metal nanoparticles were successfully introduced into SERS substrates, assembling monodispersed small silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) on large polydispersed ZnO nanospheres (p-ZnO NSs) or monodispersed ZnO nanospheres (m-ZnO NSs) core. The p-ZnO NSs and m-ZnO NSs were synthesized by the pyrolysis method without any template. The Ag NPs were prepared by the thermal evaporation method without any annealing process. An ultralow limit of detection (LOD) of 1 × 10−13 M was achieved in the two core-satellite nanostructures with Rhodamine 6G (R6G) as the probe molecule. Compared with the silicon (Si)/Ag NPs substrate, the two core-satellite nanostructures of Si/p-ZnO NSs/Ag NPs and Si/m-ZnO NSs/Ag NPs substrates have higher enhancement factors (EF) of 2.6 × 108 and 2.5 × 108 for R6G as the probe molecule due to the enhanced electromagnetic field. The two core-satellite nanostructures have great application potential in the low-cost massive production of large-area SERS substrates due to their excellent SERS effect and simple preparation process without any template.
Gastrointestinal Cancer Patient Nutritional Management: From Specific Needs to Novel Epigenetic Dietary Approaches
Authors: Cencioni Chiara , Trestini Ilaria , Piro Geny , Bria Emilio , Tortora Giampaolo , Carbone Carmine , Spallotta Francesco
Published: April 2022

Nutritional habits impinge on the health of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, contributing to GI disorder progression. GI cancer is a widespread and aggressive tumor sensitive to nutritional changes. Indeed, specific nutritional expedients can be adopted to prevent GI cancer onset and to slow down disease activity. Moreover, the patient’s nutritional status impacts prognosis, quality of life, and chemotherapy tolerance. These patients encounter the highest frequency of malnourishment risk, a condition that can progressively evolve into cachexia. Clinical studies dealing with this topic stressed the importance of nutritional counseling and put under the spotlight nutrient delivery, the type of nutrient supplementation, and timing for the start of nutritional management. A medical practitioner well-prepared on the topic of nutrition and cancer should operate in the clinical team dedicated to these oncological patients. This specific expertise needs to be implemented as soon as possible to adopt nutritional interventions and establish a proper patient-tailored dietary regimen. The nutritional gap closure should be prompt during anticancer treatment to stabilize weight loss, improve treatment tolerability, and ameliorate survival rate. Recently, novel nutritional approaches were investigated to target the bidirectional link between epigenetics and metabolism, whose alteration supports the onset, progression, and therapeutic response of GI cancer patients.
Lower Blood Vitamin D Levels Are Associated with Depressive Symptoms in a Population of Older Adults in Kuwait: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Albolushi Thurayya , Bouhaimed Manal , Spencer Jeremey
Published: April 2022

Low serum vitamin D has been associated with an increased risk of neuropsychiatry disorders. This study aimed to examine the association between vitamin D deficiency and depression in adults aged 65 years and older. This cross-sectional study was conducted in seven primary healthcare centers across Kuwait (November 2020 to June 2021). The participants (n = 237) had their serum vitamin D 25-(OH)-D concentrations (analyzed by LC-MS) classified as sufficient, ≥75 nmol/L (30 ng/mL); insufficient, 50–75 nmol/L (20–30 ng/mL); or deficient, <50 nmol/L (20 ng/mL). Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the 15-Item Geriatric Depression Scale (15-item GDS). The mean serum 25-OH-D levels (nmol/L) in volunteers with normal, mild, moderate, and severe depression were 100.0 ± 31.7, 71.2 ± 38.6, 58.6 ± 30.1 and 49.0 ± 6.93, respectively (p < 0.001). The participants in the vitamin D sufficiency group were significantly less likely to exhibit depressive symptoms (88.2%) than patients with mild (36%) and moderate (21%) depression (p < 0.001). Ordinal logistic regression showed that vitamin D deficiency (OR = 19.7, 95% CI 5.60, 74.86, p < 0.001) and insufficiency (OR = 6.40, 95% CI 2.20, 19.91, p < 0.001) were associated with higher odds of having depressive symptoms. A low serum vitamin D level is a significant predictor of symptoms of depression among older individuals.
Sleep Deprivation: Effects on Weight Loss and Weight Loss Maintenance
Authors: Papatriantafyllou Evangelia , Efthymiou Dimitris , Zoumbaneas Evangelos , Popescu Codruta Alina , Vassilopoulou Emilia
Published: April 2022

This narrative review presents the findings from intervention studies on the effects of sleep deprivation on eating habits, metabolic rate, and the hormones regulating metabolism, and discusses their relevance to weight loss efforts. Disturbed sleeping patterns lead to increased energy intake, partly from excessive snacking, mainly on foods high in fat and carbohydrates. The studies focused mainly on the effects of sleep duration, but also of sleep quality, on dietary intake during weight loss trials, and on weight loss maintenance. It is important to explore sleep routines that could enhance the efforts of obese and overweight people to lose weight, maintain their weight loss, and improve their overall health.
Identifying Effects of Urinary Metals on Type 2 Diabetes in U.S. Adults: Cross-Sectional Analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2016
Authors: Yang Jingli , Chan Kayue , Choi Cheukling , Yang Aimin , Lo Kenneth
Published: April 2022

Growing evidence supports the associations of metal exposures with risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D), but the methodological limitations overlook the complexity of relationships within the metal mixtures. We identified and estimated the single and combined effects of urinary metals and their interactions with prevalence of T2D among 3078 participants in the NHANES 2011–2016. We analyzed 15 urinary metals and identified eight metals by elastic-net regression model for further analysis of the prevalence of T2D. Bayesian kernel machine regression and the weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression models identified four metals that had greater importance in T2D, namely cobalt (Co), tin (Sn), uranium (U) and strontium (Sr). The overall OR of T2D was 1.05 (95% CI: 1.01–1.08) for the positive effects and 1.00 (95% CI: 0.98–1.02) for the negative effect in the WQS models. We observed positive (Poverall = 0.008 and Pnon-linear = 0.100 for Co, Poverall = 0.011 and Pnon-linear = 0.138 for Sn) and inverse (Poverall = 0.001, Pnon-linear = 0.209 for Sr) linear dose–response relationships with T2D by restricted cubic spline analysis. Both additive and multiplicative interactions were found in urinary Sn and Sr. In conclusion, urinary Co, Sn, U and Sr played important roles in the development of T2D. The levels of Sn might modify the effect of Sr on T2D risk.
Meta-Analysis of the Association between Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Syed Soffian Sharifah Saffinas , Mohammed Nawi Azmawati , Hod Rozita , Ja’afar Mohd Hasni , Isa Zaleha Md , Chan Huan-Keat , Hassan Muhammad Radzi Abu
Published: April 2022

The Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) was extensively used to examine the inflammatory potential of diet related to colorectal cancer (CRC). This meta-analysis aimed to update the evidence of the association between the DII and CRC across various culture-specific dietary patterns. Literature search was performed through online databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and EBSCOHost). Observational studies exploring the association between the DII and CRC, published between 2017 and 2021, were included. The risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were separately computed for 12 studies comparing the highest and lowest DII scores and for 3 studies that presented continuous DII scores. A high DII score was associated with a higher risk of CRC (RR:1.16; 95% CI, 1.05–1.27). In the subgroup analysis, significant associations were seen in cohort design (RR: 1.24; 95% CI, 1.06–1.44), those lasting for 10 years or longer (RR: 2.95; 95% CI, 2.47–3.52), and in adjustment factor for physical activity (RR: 1.13; 95% CI, 1.07–1.20). An increase of one point in the DII score elevates the risk of CRC by 1.34 (95% CI: 1.15–1.55) times. The findings call for standardized measurement of the inflammatory potential of diet in future studies to enable the establishment of global guidelines for CRC prevention.
Dietary Assessment Tools and Metabolic Syndrome: Is It Time to Change the Focus?
Authors: Chauhan Helen , Belski Regina , Bryant Eleanor , Cooke Matthew
Published: April 2022

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is associated with a range of chronic diseases, for which lifestyle interventions are considered the cornerstone of treatment. Dietary interventions have primarily focused on weight reduction, usually via energy restricted diets. While this strategy can improve insulin sensitivity and other health markers, weight loss alone is not always effective in addressing all risk factors associated with MS. Previous studies have identified diet quality as a key factor in reducing the risk of MS independent of weight loss. Additionally, supporting evidence for the use of novel strategies such as carbohydrate restriction and modifying the frequency and timing of meals is growing. It is well established that dietary assessment tools capable of identifying dietary patterns known to increase the risk of MS are essential for the development of personalised, targeted diet and lifestyle advice. The American Heart Association (AHA) recently evaluated the latest in a variety of assessment tools, recommending three that demonstrate the highest evidence-based and clinical relevance. However, such tools may not assess and thus identify all dietary and eating patterns associated with MS development and treatment, especially those which are new and emerging. This paper offers a review of current dietary assessment tools recommended for use by the AHA to assess dietary and eating patterns associated with MS development. We discuss how these recommendations align with recent and novel evidence on the benefits of restricting ultra-processed food and refined carbohydrates and modifying timing and frequency of meals. Finally, we provide recommendations for future redevelopment of these tools to be deployed in health care settings.
A Comprehensive Examination of the Nature, Frequency, and Context of Parental Weight Communication: Perspectives of Parents and Adolescents
Authors: Puhl Rebecca M. , Lessard Leah M. , Foster Gary D. , Cardel Michelle I.
Published: April 2022

Research suggests that many parents make comments about their child’s weight, which is associated with negative adolescent health outcomes. Gaps in this literature include an underrepresentation of fathers, limited knowledge regarding positive versus negative parental weight comments and differences across race/ethnicity, and adolescent preferences for parental weight communication. The present study addressed these research gaps through a comprehensive investigation of two diverse samples of U.S. parents (n = 1936) and adolescents (n = 2032), who completed questionnaires about their experiences and perspectives of parental weight communication. Positive weight comments from parents were more frequent than negative comments, though both were commonly reported across sex, race/ethnicity, and weight status. In general, boys, fathers, Latino/a parents and adolescents, and adolescents with a high BMI and/or engaged in weight management reported more frequent parental weight-talk. Parent–adolescent weight communication occurred both in-person and digitally, and across daily life contexts. Although the majority of parents communicated positive messages of body diversity and respect, 44% and 63% of adolescents said they never want their mothers and fathers, respectively, to talk about their weight. Adolescents were offered circumstances that would increase their comfort level in having these conversations. Findings have implications for health professionals working with families to promote supportive health communication at home.
Transcriptional Profiling of the Small Intestine and the Colon Reveals Modulation of Gut Infection with Citrobacter rodentium According to the Vitamin A Status
Authors: Chai Zhi , Lyu Yafei , Chen Qiuyan , Wei Cheng-Hsin , Snyder Lindsay M. , Weaver Veronika , Sebastian Aswathy , Albert István , Li Qunhua , Cantorna Margherita T. , Ross Catharine
Published: April 2022

Vitamin A (VA) deficiency and diarrheal diseases are both serious public health issues worldwide. VA deficiency is associated with impaired intestinal barrier function and increased risk of mucosal infection-related mortality. The bioactive form of VA, retinoic acid, is a well-known regulator of mucosal integrity. Using Citrobacter rodentium-infected mice as a model for diarrheal diseases in humans, previous studies showed that VA-deficient (VAD) mice failed to clear C. rodentium as compared to their VA-sufficient (VAS) counterparts. However, the distinct intestinal gene responses that are dependent on the host’s VA status still need to be discovered. The mRNAs extracted from the small intestine (SI) and the colon were sequenced and analyzed on three levels: differential gene expression, enrichment, and co-expression. C. rodentium infection interacted differentially with VA status to alter colon gene expression. Novel functional categories downregulated by this pathogen were identified, highlighted by genes related to the metabolism of VA, vitamin D, and ion transport, including improper upregulation of Cl− secretion and disrupted HCO3− metabolism. Our results suggest that derangement of micronutrient metabolism and ion transport, together with the compromised immune responses in VAD hosts, may be responsible for the higher mortality to C. rodentium under conditions of inadequate VA.
Availability of Healthy Food and Beverages in Hospital Outlets and Interventions in the UK and USA to Improve the Hospital Food Environment: A Systematic Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Richardson Sarah , McSweeney Lorraine , Spence Suzanne
Published: April 2022

The aims of this systematic review are to determine the availability of healthy food and beverages in hospitals and identify interventions that positively influence the hospital food environment, thereby improving the dietary intake of employees and visitors. Embase, Medline, APA PsycInfo, Scopus, Google Scholar and Google were used to identify publications. Publications relating to the wider hospital food environment in the UK and USA were considered eligible, while those regarding food available to in-patients were excluded. Eligible publications (n = 40) were explored using a narrative synthesis. Risk of bias and research quality were assessed using the Quality Criteria Checklist for Primary Research. Although limited by the heterogeneity of study designs, this review concludes that the overall quality of hospital food environments varies. Educational, labelling, financial and choice architecture interventions were shown to improve the hospital food environment and/or dietary intake of consumers. Implementing pre-existing initiatives improved food environments, but multi-component interventions had some undesirable effects, such as reduced fruit and vegetable intake.
In Vivo Evaluation of the Acute Systemic Toxicity of (1S,2E,4R,6R,7E,11E)-Cembratriene-4,6-diol (4R) in Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Sabeva Nadezhda , Pagán Oné R. , Ferrer-Acosta Yancy , Eterović Vesna A. , Ferchmin Peter A.
Published: April 2022

The tobacco cembranoid (1S,2E,4R,6R,7E,11E)-2,7,11-cembratriene-4,6-diol (4R) interacts with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which results in neuroprotection against organophosphate toxicity, brain ischemia, and Parkinson’s disease. The present study is a continuation of our previous research in which we applied a single dose of 4R 1 h before or 24 h after exposure to diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) (analog of the nerve agent sarin). The 4R dose robustly decreased neuroinflammation and neuronal death at both timepoints. Here, we investigated the toxicity of a single dose of 4R in male and female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats after a subcutaneous (s.c.) injection of 6, 24, or 98 mg/kg. Body weight was not affected by 4R during the 7-day observation period. No histopathologic changes in the organs were attributed to 4R. Minor hematological and blood composition variations were detected on Day 3 in the mid- and the high-dose males, but these were resolved by Day 8. At the area of the s.c. injection site, alopecia and dry skin were detected in both the 4R-treated males and females and in the female controls.
Review of Shearography for Dual-Directional Measurement
Authors: Guo Bicheng , Zhang Boyang , Zheng Xiaowan , Fang Siyuan , Fang Yue , Sia Bernard , Yang Lianxiang
Published: April 2022

Shearography is a coherent optical technique that allows the identification of the first derivative of deformation in the shearing direction. Due to direct measuring strain information, shearography is suited for non-destructive testing and evaluation (NDT/NDE). However, if there is a small defect parallel to the shearing direction, the first derivative of deformation in the direction has no noticeable change, and the defect is not visible. Therefore, the development of a shearography system with dual-directional simultaneous measurement of the first derivatives of deformation both in x- and y-directions is highly demanded in the field of NDT/NDE. It is suited to inspect complicated defects, such as long and narrow slots, microcracks, etc. This paper presents a review of shearography for different dual-directional systems developed in the last two decades. After a brief overview of shearography, the paper will display two dual-directional shearographic techniques—temporal phase-shift (TPS) and spatial phase-shift (SPS) methods. TPS dual-shearing systems are suited for static measurements, while the SPS dual-shearing systems are useful for dynamic measurements. The basic theories, optical layouts, and comparisons are presented. The advantages and disadvantages of practical applications are discussed.
Fish Roe-Induced Anaphylaxis in Italy: A Pediatric Case Report
Authors: De Paulis Nicoletta , Di Costanzo Margherita , Capra Maria Elena , Peveri Silvia , Montagni Marcello , Biasucci Giacomo
Published: April 2022

Fish roe are not yet described as triggers of allergic reactions in Italy, especially during the pediatric age; they are more frequently involved in anaphylaxis in Eastern countries, such as Japan. For this report, we reported a case of anaphylaxis in a 2-year-old boy admitted to our Hospital Pediatric Emergency Room with a suspected allergic reaction. 15 min after the meal, he presented generalized urticaria, angioedema, wheezing, sneezing, and two vomiting episodes. The meal was smoked salmon, butter, mayonnaise, anchovies, and fish roe (salmon and lumpfish roe). Tryptase serum levels presented as elevated in the acute phase and normal after 24 h. Serum food-specific IgE tested negative for salmon and other fish, such as skin prick tests. Serum food-specific IgE showed that the patient was sensitized to cow’s milk and eggs, but he doesn’t have a food allergy. He had regularly consumed milk and eggs before and after the allergic reaction without clinical problems. A prick-by-prick test resulted positive for fish roe (salmon and lumpfish roe). Based on patient’s history, allergy test results in vivo, and tryptase serum levels, the diagnosis of anaphylaxis induced by fish roe was confirmed. In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first pediatric case of fish roe-induced anaphylaxis reported in Italy.
Harpagophytum procumbens Root Extract Mediates Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Osteoarthritis Synoviocytes through CB2 Activation
Authors: Mariano Alessia , Bigioni Irene , Mattioli Roberto , Di Sotto Antonella , Leopizzi Martina , Garzoli Stefania , Mariani Pier Francesco , Dalla Vedova Pietro , Ammendola Sergio , Scotto d’Abusco Anna
Published: April 2022

The endocannabinoid system is involved in the nociceptive and anti-inflammatory pathways, and a lowered expression of CB2 receptors has been associated with inflammatory conditions, such as osteoarthritis (OA). This suggests that CB2 modulators could be novel therapeutic tools to treat OA. In the present study, the involvement of Harpagophytum procumbens root extract, a common ingredient of nutraceuticals used to treat joint disorders, in CB2 modulation has been evaluated. Moreover, to clarify the effects of the pure single components, the bioactive constituent, harpagoside, and the main volatile compounds were studied alone or in a reconstituted mixture. Human fibroblast-like synoviocytes, extracted by joints of patients, who underwent a total knee replacement, were treated with an H. procumbens root extract dissolved in DMSO (HPEDMSO). The effectiveness of HPEDMSO to affect CB2 pathways was studied by analyzing the modulation of cAMP, the activation of PKA and ERK MAP kinase, and the modulation of MMP-13 production. HPEDMSO was able to inhibit the cAMP production and MAP kinase activation and to down-regulate the MMP-13 production. Pure compounds were less effective than the whole phytocomplex, thus suggesting the involvement of synergistic interactions. Present findings encourage further mechanistic studies and support the scientific basis of the use of H. procumbens in joint disorders.
Structure-Activity Relationship Investigations of Novel Constrained Chimeric Peptidomimetics of SOCS3 Protein Targeting JAK2
Authors: La Manna Sara , Leone Marilisa , Mercurio Flavia Anna , Florio Daniele , Marasco Daniela
Published: April 2022

SOCS3 (suppressor of cytokine signaling 3) protein suppresses cytokine-induced inflammation and its deletion in neurons or immune cells increases the pathological growth of blood vessels. Recently, we designed several SOCS3 peptidomimetics by assuming as template structures the interfacing regions of the ternary complex constituted by SOCS3, JAK2 (Janus Kinase 2) and gp130 (glycoprotein 130) proteins. A chimeric peptide named KIRCONG chim, including non-contiguous regions demonstrated able to bind to JAK2 and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in VSMCs (vascular smooth muscle cells). With the aim to improve drug-like features of KIRCONG, herein we reported novel cyclic analogues bearing different linkages. In detail, in two of them hydrocarbon cycles of different lengths were inserted at positions i/i+5 and i/i+7 to improve helical conformations of mimetics. Structural features of cyclic compounds were investigated by CD (Circular Dichroism) and NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) spectroscopies while their ability to bind to catalytic domain of JAK2 was assessed through MST (MicroScale Thermophoresis) assay as well as their stability in biological serum. Overall data indicate a crucial role exerted by the length and the position of the cycle within the chimeric structure and could pave the way to the miniaturization of SOCS3 protein for therapeutic aims.
Mechanism and Application of Chitosan and Its Derivatives in Promoting Permeation in Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems: A Review
Authors: Ma Jinqian , Wang Yuchen , Lu Rong
Published: April 2022

The mechanisms and applications of chitosan and its derivatives in transdermal drug delivery to promote drug permeation were reviewed in this paper. Specifically, we summarized the permeation-promoting mechanisms of chitosan and several of its derivatives, including changing the structure of stratum corneum proteins, acting on the tight junction of granular layers, affecting intercellular lipids, and increasing the water content of stratum corneum. These mechanisms are the reason why chitosan and its derivatives can increase the transdermal permeation of drugs. In addition, various transdermal preparations containing chitosan and its derivatives were summarized, and their respective advantages were expounded, including nanoparticles, emulsions, transdermal microneedles, nanocapsules, transdermal patches, transdermal membranes, hydrogels, liposomes, and nano-stents. The purpose of this review is to provide a theoretical basis for the further and wider application of chitosan in transdermal drug delivery systems. In the future, research results of chitosan and its derivatives in transdermal drug delivery need more support from in vivo experiments, as well as good correlation between in vitro and in vivo experiments. In conclusion, the excellent permeability-promoting property, good biocompatibility, and biodegradability of chitosan and its derivatives make them ideal materials for local transdermal drug delivery.