bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Collective Influence of Component Commonality, Adjustable-Rate, Postponement, and Rework on Multi-Item Manufacturing Decision
Authors: Chiu Singa Wang , You Liang-Wei , Yeh Tsu-Ming , Chiu Tiffany
Published: September 2020

The present study explores the collective influence of component commonality, adjustable-rate, postponement, and rework on the multi-item manufacturing decision. In contemporary markets, customer demand trends point to fast-response, high-quality, and diversified merchandise. Hence, to meet customer expectations, modern manufacturers must plan their multiproduct fabrication schedule in the most efficient and cost-saving way, especially when product commonality exists in a series of end products. To respond to the above viewpoints, we propose a two-stage multiproduct manufacturing scheme, featuring an adjustable fabrication rate in stage one for all needed common parts, and manufacturing diversified finished goods in stage two. The rework processes are used in both stages to repair the inevitable, nonconforming items and ensure the desired product quality. We derive the cost-minimized rotation cycle decision through modeling, formulation, cost analysis, and differential calculus. Using a numerical illustration, we reveal the collective and individual influence of adjustable-rate, rework, and postponement strategies on diverse critical system performances (such as uptime of the common part and/or end products, utilization, individual cost factor, and total system cost). Our decision-support model offers in-depth managerial insights for manufacturing and operations planning in a wide variety of contemporary industries, such as household merchandise, clothing, and automotive.
Sarmentosamide, an Anti-Aging Compound from a Marine-Derived Streptomyces sp. APmarine042
Authors: Lee Eun-Soo , Lee Eun-Young , Yoon Jisoo , Hong Ahreum , Nam Sang-Jip , Ko Jaeyoung
Published: September 2020

Many bioactive materials have been isolated from marine microorganisms, including alkaloids, peptides, lipids, mycosporine-like amino acids, glycosides, and isoprenoids. Some of these compounds have great potential in the cosmetic industry due to their photo-protective, anti-aging, and anti-oxidant activities. In this study, sarmentosamide (1) was isolated from marine-derived Streptomyces sp. APmarine042, after which its capacity to decrease skin aging was examined in-vitro. Sarmentosamide (1) was found to significantly reduce UVB-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) expression in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) by inhibiting the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation, which are regulatory pathways upstream of MMP-1 transcription. Additionally, we confirmed that sarmentosamide (1) decreased tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), induced MMP-1 secretion in NHDFs, and exhibited free-radical scavenging activity, as demonstrated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Therefore, our study suggests that sarmentosamide (1) could be a promising anti-aging agent that acts via the downregulation of MMP-1 expression.
The Microbiome in Health and Disease from the Perspective of Modern Medicine and Ayurveda
Authors: Wallace Robert Keith
Published: September 2020

The role of the microbiome in health and disease helps to provide a scientific understanding of key concepts in Ayurveda. We now recognize that virtually every aspect of our physiology and health is influenced by the collection of microorganisms that live in various parts of our body, especially the gut microbiome. There are many external factors which influence the composition of the gut microbiome but one of the most important is diet and digestion. Ayurveda and other systems of traditional health have for thousands of years focused on diet and digestion. Recent research has helped us understand the connection between the microbiome and the many different prevention and therapeutic treatment approaches of Ayurveda.
Alkali Attack on Cation-Exchange Membranes with Polyvinyl Chloride Backing and Binder: Comparison with Anion-Exchange Membranes
Authors: Doi Shoichi , Takumi Nobuya , Kakihana Yuriko , Higa Mitsuru
Published: September 2020

Systematic alkali immersion tests of cation-exchange membranes (CEM) with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as their backing and binder were conducted to compare that of an Anion-exchange membrane (AEM) with the same PVC materials to investigate the mechanism of dehydrochlorination. In the immersion tests, originally colorless and transparent AEM turned violet, and chemical structure analysis showed that polyene was produced by the dehydrochlorination reaction. However, the CEM did not change in color, chemical structure or membrane properties during the test with less than 1M alkali solutions. According to the Donnan equilibrium theory and the experiments using CEM and AEM, the hydroxide ion concentration in the CEM was much lower than that in the AEM under the same conditions. However, when the alkali immersion test was performed using the CEM under more severe conditions (6 M for 168 h at 40 °C), there was a slight change in the color and chemical structure of the CEM, clearly indicating that not only AEMs, but also CEMs with PVC matrixes were deteriorated by alkali, depending on the conditions.
Effect of B2O3 on the Sintering Process of Vanadium–Titanium Magnet Concentrates and Hematite
Authors: Liu Hao , Zhang Ke , Qin Yuelin , Saxén Henrik , Liu Weiqiang , Xiang Xiaoyan
Published: September 2020

This work studied the effect of B2O3 (analytical reagent) on the parameters of a sintering pot test, as well as the metallurgical properties and microstructure of the sinter samples, to determine the feasibility of applying solid waste containing B2O3 in vanadium–titanium sintering. The results show that along with B2O3 addition, the mechanical strength of the sinter first increases and then decreases; the maximum strength was found upon the addition of 3.0% of B2O3. The low-temperature reduction and pulverization rate of the vanadium–titanium sinter were also improved, while the start and end temperatures of softening showed a decreasing trend. The microstructure of the sinter was found to change from plate structure to particle and point structure, with uniformly distributed small areas. The sintering pots created by B2O3 addition had low total porosity but a greater pore diameter than pots created without the reagent.
A New Method for Next-Generation Sequencing of the Full Hepatitis B Virus Genome from A Clinical Specimen: Impact for Virus Genotyping
Authors: Hebeler-Barbosa Flavia , Wolf Ivan Rodrigo , Valente Guilherme Targino , Mello Francisco Campello do Amaral , Lampe Elisabeth , Pardini Maria Inês de Moura Campos , Grotto Rejane Maria Tommasini
Published: September 2020

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an enveloped virus that induces chronic liver disease. HBV has been classified into eight genotypes (A–H) according to its genome sequence by using Sanger sequencing or reverse hybridization. Sanger sequencing is often restricted to analyzing the S gene and is inaccurate for detecting minority genetic variants, whereas reverse hybridization detects only known mutations. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a robust tool for clinical virology with different protocols available. The objective of this study was to develop a new method for the study of viral genetic polymorphisms or more accurate genotyping using genome amplification followed by NGS. Plasma obtained from five chronically infected HBV individuals was used for viral DNA isolation. HBV full-genome PCR amplification was the enrichment method for NGS. Primers were used to amplify all HBV genotypes in three overlapping amplicons, following a tagmentation step and Illumina NGS. For phylogenetic analysis, sequences were extracted from the HBVdb database. We were able to amplify a full HBV genome; further, NGS was shown to be a robust method and allowed better genotyping, mainly in patients carrying mixed genotypes, classified according to other techniques. This new method may be significant for whole genome analyses, including other viruses.
Modulation of the Gut Microbiota Alters the Tumour-Suppressive Efficacy of Tim-3 Pathway Blockade in a Bacterial Species- and Host Factor-Dependent Manner
Authors: Lee Bokyoung , Lee Jieun , Woo Min-Yeong , Lee Mi Jin , Shin Ho-Joon , Kim Kyongmin , Park Sun
Published: September 2020

T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein-3 (Tim-3) is an immune checkpoint molecule and a target for anti-cancer therapy. In this study, we examined whether gut microbiota manipulation altered the anti-tumour efficacy of Tim-3 blockade. The gut microbiota of mice was manipulated through the administration of antibiotics and oral gavage of bacteria. Alterations in the gut microbiome were analysed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Gut dysbiosis triggered by antibiotics attenuated the anti-tumour efficacy of Tim-3 blockade in both C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice. Anti-tumour efficacy was restored following oral gavage of faecal bacteria even as antibiotic administration continued. In the case of oral gavage of Enterococcus hirae or Lactobacillus johnsonii, transferred bacterial species and host mouse strain were critical determinants of the anti-tumour efficacy of Tim-3 blockade. Bacterial gavage did not increase the alpha diversity of gut microbiota in antibiotic-treated mice but did alter the microbiome composition, which was associated with the restoration of the anti-tumour efficacy of Tim-3 blockade. Conclusively, our results indicate that gut microbiota modulation may improve the therapeutic efficacy of Tim-3 blockade during concomitant antibiotic treatment. The administered bacterial species and host factors should be considered in order to achieve therapeutically beneficial modulation of the microbiota.
Potent Broad-Spectrum Antibacterial Activity of Amphiphilic Peptides against Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria
Authors: Liu Yuan , Shi Jingru , Tong Ziwen , Jia Yuqian , Yang Kangni , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: September 2020

The emergence and prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria particularly Gram-negative bacteria presents a global crisis for human health. Colistin and tigecycline were recognized as the last resort of defenses against MDR Gram-negative pathogens. However, the emergence and prevalence of MCR or Tet(X)-mediated acquired drug resistance drastically impaired their clinical efficacy. It has been suggested that antimicrobial peptides might act a crucial role in combating antibiotic resistant bacteria owing to their multiple modes of action and characteristics that are not prone to developing drug resistance. Herein, we report a safe and stable tryptophan-rich amphiphilic peptide termed WRK-12 with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against various MDR bacteria, including MRSA, colistin and tigecycline-resistant Escherichia coli. Mechanistical studies showed that WRK-12 killed resistant E. coli through permeabilizing the bacterial membrane, dissipating membrane potential and triggering the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Meanwhile, WRK-12 significantly inhibited the formation of an E. coli biofilm in a dose-dependent manner. These findings revealed that amphiphilic peptide WRK-12 is a promising drug candidate in the fight against MDR bacteria.
Ultrasonic Modulation of the Technological and Functional Properties of Yeast Strains
Authors: Speranza Barbara , Campaniello Daniela , Altieri Clelia , Sinigaglia Milena , Bevilacqua Antonio , Corbo Maria Rosaria
Published: September 2020

This research was aimed at studying the effects of low intensity ultrasound (US) on some technological and functional properties of eight strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae; namely, growth patterns (growth at 2–5% of NaCl or at 37 °C), autoaggregation and tolerance to simulated gastrointestinal conditions were evaluated. A US treatment was applied at 20% of net power (130 W) by a modulating duration (2–10 min) and pulses (2–10 s). The viable count (4.81–6.33 log CFU/mL) was not affected by US, while in terms of technological traits the effect was strain specific; in particular, for some strains a positive effect of US was found with a significant growth enhancement (growth index > 120%). The treatment was also able to increase the autoaggregation of some strains, thus suggesting that US could represent a promising way to treat and select nonconventional functional yeasts for food applications.
Multifunctional Magnetic Oxide Nanoparticle (MNP) Core-Shell: Review of Synthesis, Structural Studies and Application for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Nnadozie Ebenezer C. , Ajibade Peter A.
Published: September 2020

The demand for water is predicted to increase significantly over the coming decades; thus, there is a need to develop an inclusive wastewater decontaminator for the effective management and conservation of water. Magnetic oxide nanocomposites have great potentials as global and novel remediators for wastewater treatment, with robust environmental and economic gains. Environment-responsive nanocomposites would offer wide flexibility to harvest and utilize massive untapped natural energy sources to drive a green economy in tandem with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Recent attempts to engineer smart magnetic oxide nanocomposites for wastewater treatment has been reported by several researchers. However, the magnetic properties of superparamagnetic nanocomposite materials and their adsorption properties nexus as fundamental to the design of recyclable nanomaterials are desirable for industrial application. The potentials of facile magnetic recovery, ease of functionalization, reusability, solar responsiveness, biocompatibility and ergonomic design promote the application of magnetic oxide nanocomposites in wastewater treatment. The review makes a holistic attempt to explore magnetic oxide nanocomposites for wastewater treatment; futuristic smart magnetic oxides as an elixir to global water scarcity is expounded. Desirable adsorption parameters and properties of magnetic oxides nanocomposites are explored while considering their fate in biological and environmental media.
Biological Activities and ADMET-Related Properties of Novel Set of Cinnamanilides
Authors: Kos Jiri , Bak Andrzej , Kozik Violetta , Jankech Timotej , Strharsky Tomas , Swietlicka Aleksandra , Michnova Hana , Hosek Jan , Smolinski Adam , Oravec Michal , Devinsky Ferdinand , Hutta Milan , Jampilek Josef
Published: September 2020

A series of nineteen novel ring-substituted N-arylcinnamanilides was synthesized and characterized. All investigated compounds were tested against Staphylococcus aureus as the reference strain, two clinical isolates of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. (2E)-N-[3-Fluoro-4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-3-phenylprop-2-enamide showed even better activity (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 25.9 and 12.9 µM) against MRSA isolates than the commonly used ampicillin (MIC 45.8 µM). The screening of the cell viability was performed using THP1-Blue™ NF-κB cells and, except for (2E)-N-(4-bromo-3-chlorophenyl)-3-phenylprop-2-enamide (IC50 6.5 µM), none of the discussed compounds showed any significant cytotoxic effect up to 20 μM. Moreover, all compounds were tested for their anti-inflammatory potential; several compounds attenuated the lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation and were more potent than the parental cinnamic acid. The lipophilicity values were specified experimentally as well. In addition, in silico approximation of the lipophilicity values was performed employing a set of free/commercial clogP estimators, corrected afterwards by the corresponding pKa calculated at physiological pH and subsequently cross-compared with the experimental parameters. The similarity-driven property space evaluation of structural analogs was carried out using the principal component analysis, Tanimoto metrics, and Kohonen mapping.
LRRK2 Regulates CPT1A to Promote β-Oxidation in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Lin Chiao-Wei , Peng Yu-Ju , Lin Yuan-Yu , Mersmann Harry John , Ding Shih-Torng
Published: September 2020

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is involved in lipid metabolism; however, the role of LRRK2 in lipid metabolism to affect non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is still unclear. In the mouse model of NAFLD induced by a high-fat diet, we observed that LRRK2 was decreased in livers. In HepG2 cells, exposure to palmitic acid (PA) down-regulated LRRK2. Overexpression and knockdown of LRRK2 in HepG2 cells were performed to further investigate the roles of LRRK2 in lipid metabolism. Our results showed that β-oxidation in HepG2 cells was promoted by LRRK2 overexpression, whereas LRRK2 knockdown inhibited β-oxidation. The critical enzyme of β-oxidation, carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A), was positively regulated by LRRK2. Our data suggested that the regulation of CPT1A by LRRK2 may be via the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα). The overexpression of LRRK2 reduced the concentration of a pro-inflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), induced by PA. The increase in β-oxidation may promote lipid catabolism to suppress inflammation induced by PA. These results indicated that LRRK2 participated in the regulation of β-oxidation and suggested that the decreased LRRK2 may promote inflammation by suppressing β-oxidation in the liver.
Confinement Effects on Glass-Forming Aqueous Dimethyl Sulfoxide Solutions
Authors: Demuth Dominik , Reuhl Melanie , Hopfenmüller Moritz , Karabas Nail , Schoner Simon , Vogel Michael
Published: September 2020

Combining broadband dielectric spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance studies, we analyze the reorientation dynamics and the translational diffusion associated with the glassy slowdown of the eutectic aqueous dimethyl sulfoxide solution in nano-sized confinements, explicitly, in silica pores with different diameters and in ficoll and lysozyme matrices at different concentrations. We observe that both rotational and diffusive dynamics are slower and more heterogeneous in the confinements than in the bulk but the degree of these effects depends on the properties of the confinement and differs for the components of the solution. For the hard and the soft matrices, the slowdown and the heterogeneity become more prominent when the size of the confinement is reduced. In addition, the dynamics are more retarded for dimethyl sulfoxide than for water, implying specific guest-host interactions. Moreover, we find that the temperature dependence of the reorientation dynamics and of the translational diffusion differs in severe confinements, indicating a breakdown of the Stokes–Einstein–Debye relation. It is discussed to what extent these confinement effects can be rationalized in the framework of core-shell models, which assume bulk-like and slowed-down motions in central and interfacial confinement regions, respectively.
High Voltage Electrical Discharges as an Alternative Extraction Process of Phenolic and Volatile Compounds from Wild Thyme (Thymus serpyllum L.): In Silico and Experimental Approaches for Solubility Assessment
Authors: Nutrizio Marinela , Pataro Gianpiero , Carullo Daniele , Carpentieri Serena , Mazza Luisa , Ferrari Giovanna , Chemat Farid , Banović Mara , Režek Jambrak Anet
Published: September 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of green solvents for extractions of bioactive compounds (BACs) and essential oils from wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum L.) using theoretical and experimental procedures. Theoretical prediction was assessed by Hansen solubility parameters (HSPs) and conductor-like screening model for realistic solvents (COSMO-RS), to predict the most suitable solvents for extraction of BACs. An experimental procedure was performed by nonthermal technology high voltage electrical discharge (HVED) and it was compared with modified conventional extraction (CE). Obtained extracts were analyzed for chemical and physical changes during the treatment. Theoretical results for solution of BACs in ethanol and water, as green solvents, were confirmed by experimental results, while more accurate data was given by COSMO-RS assessment than HSPs. Results confirmed high potential of HVED for extraction of BACs and volatile compounds from wild thyme, in average, 2.03 times higher yield of extraction in terms of total phenolic content was found compared to CE. The main phenolic compound found in wild thyme extracts was rosmarinic acid, while the predominant volatile compound was carvacrol. Obtained extracts are considered safe and high-quality source reach in BACs that could be further used in functional food production.
Instant Controlled Pressure Drop as Blanching and Texturing Pre-Treatment to Preserve the Antioxidant Compounds of Red Dried Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.)
Authors: Alonzo-Macías Maritza , Cardador-Martínez Anaberta , Besombes Colette , Allaf Karim , Tejada-Ortigoza Viridiana , Soria-Mejía Marla C. , Vázquez-García Rosa , Téllez-Pérez Carmen
Published: September 2020

Red beetroot is rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, betaxanthins, betacyanins, among others. According to selected processing methods, the bioaccessibility of these compounds could be either enhanced or decreased. This study evaluated the effect of four different drying conditions: (1) Traditional Drying (TD), (2) Swell Drying (SD), (3) DIC Blanching + Traditional Drying (BTD), and (4) DIC Blanching + Swell Drying (BSD) on the antioxidant content and the antioxidant activity of red beetroots. Obtained results showed that in all the cases, by comparing to Traditional Drying (TD), the coupling of a DIC Blanching pre-treatment to a Swell Drying treatment (BSD) maintained or enhanced the preservation of the Total Phenolic Compounds (TPC), the Total Flavonoids Compounds (TFC), the Betanin Concentration (BC), the Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC), and the Free Radical Scavenging Activity by DPPH (IC50) of red beetroots. Various studies have shown that thanks to the expanded and porous structure triggered by the Swell Drying process, it has been possible to achieve better antioxidants extraction and better whole quality. Hence, by coupling DIC as a blanching–steaming pre-treatment, it was possible to preserve better the antioxidant content and the antioxidant activity of red dried beetroots.
Mass Spectrometry and Structural Biology Techniques in the Studies on the Coronavirus-Receptor Interaction
Authors: Witkowska Danuta
Published: September 2020

Mass spectrometry and some other biophysical methods, have made substantial contributions to the studies on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and human proteins interactions. The most interesting feature of SARS-CoV-2 seems to be the structure of its spike (S) protein and its interaction with the human cell receptor. Mass spectrometry of spike S protein revealed how the glycoforms are distributed across the S protein surface. X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy made huge impact on the studies on the S protein and ACE2 receptor protein interaction, by elucidating the three-dimensional structures of these proteins and their conformational changes. The findings of the most recent studies in the scope of SARS-CoV-2-Human protein-protein interactions are described here.
Influence of the Nucleophilic Ligand on the Reactivity of Carbonyl Rhenium(I) Complexes towards Methyl Propiolate: A Computational Chemistry Perspective
Authors: Álvarez Daniel , López-Castro Elena , Guerrero Arturo , Riera Lucía , Pérez Julio , Díaz Jesús , Menéndez M. Isabel , López Ramón
Published: September 2020

A comparative theoretical study on the reactivity of the complexes [ReY(CO)3(bipy)] (Y = NH2, NHMe, NHpTol, OH, OMe, OPh, PH2, PHMe, PMe2, PHPh, PPh2, PMePh, SH, SMe, SPh; bipy = 2,2′-bipyridine) towards methyl propiolate was carried out to analyze the influence of both the heteroatom (N, O, P, S) and the alkyl and/or aryl substituents of the Y ligand on the nature of the product obtained. The methyl substituent tends to accelerate the reactions. However, an aromatic ring bonded to N and O makes the reaction more difficult, whereas its linkage to P and S favour it. On the whole, ligands with O and S heteroatoms seem to disfavour these processes more than ligands with N and P heteroatoms, respectively. Phosphido and thiolato ligands tend to yield a coupling product with the bipy ligand, which is not the general case for hydroxo, alcoxo or amido ligands. When the Y ligand has an O/N and an H atom the most likely product is the one containing a coupling with the carbonyl ligand, which is not always obtained when Y contains P/S. Only for OMe and OPh, the product resulting from formal insertion into the Re-Y bond is the preferred.
Preparation and Anti-Mold Properties of Nano-ZnO/Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) Composite Hydrogels
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Huang Qiuli , Du Chungui , Peng Rui , Hua Yating , Li Qi , Hu Ailian , Zhou Junhui
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to overcome drawbacks of the inhomogeneous dispersion and facile agglomeration of nano-ZnO/poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) composite hydrogels (nano-ZnO/PNIPAm composite hydrogels) during synthesis and improve the anti-mold property of the nano-ZnO/PNIPAm composite hydrogels. Here, nano-ZnO/PNIPAm composite hydrogels were prepared by the radical polymerization method. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) were used to characterize the effects of different dispersants on the particle sizes, dispersions, and phase transition characteristics of the nano-ZnO/PNIPAm composite hydrogels. The anti-mold properties of nano-ZnO/PNIPAm composite hydrogels were studied. Results revealed that the nano-ZnO/PNIPAm composite hydrogel prepared by the addition of nano-ZnO dispersion liquid exhibited the smallest particle size, the most homogeneous dispersion, and the highest stability. The addition of the dispersant did not change the phase transition characteristics of nano-ZnO/PNIPAm, and the nano-ZnO/PNIPAm composite hydrogels (Pf) exhibited good anti-mold properties to the bamboo mold.
Transcriptomic and Proteomic Analysis of Clear Cell Foci (CCF) in the Human Non-Cirrhotic Liver Identifies Several Differentially Expressed Genes and Proteins with Functions in Cancer Cell Biology and Glycogen Metabolism
Authors: Metzendorf Christoph , Wineberger Katharina , Rausch Jenny , Cigliano Antonio , Peters Kristin , Sun Baodong , Mennerich Daniela , Kietzmann Thomas , Calvisi Diego F. , Dombrowski Frank , Ribback Silvia
Published: September 2020

Clear cell foci (CCF) of the liver are considered to be pre-neoplastic lesions of hepatocellular adenomas and carcinomas. They are hallmarked by glycogen overload and activation of AKT (v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog)/mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin)-signaling. Here, we report the transcriptome and proteome of CCF extracted from human liver biopsies by laser capture microdissection. We found 14 genes and 22 proteins differentially expressed in CCF and the majority of these were expressed at lower levels in CCF. Using immunohistochemistry, the reduced expressions of STBD1 (starch-binding domain-containing protein 1), USP28 (ubiquitin-specific peptidase 28), monad/WDR92 (WD repeat domain 92), CYB5B (Cytochrome b5 type B), and HSPE1 (10 kDa heat shock protein, mitochondrial) were validated in CCF in independent specimens. Knockout of Stbd1, the gene coding for Starch-binding domain-containing protein 1, in mice did not have a significant effect on liver glycogen levels, indicating that additional factors are required for glycogen overload in CCF. Usp28 knockout mice did not show changes in glycogen storage in diethylnitrosamine-induced liver carcinoma, demonstrating that CCF are distinct from this type of cancer model, despite the decreased USP28 expression. Moreover, our data indicates that decreased USP28 expression is a novel factor contributing to the pre-neoplastic character of CCF. In summary, our work identifies several novel and unexpected candidates that are differentially expressed in CCF and that have functions in glycogen metabolism and tumorigenesis.
Water-Tree Resistability of UV-XLPE from Hydrophilicity of Auxiliary Crosslinkers
Authors: Chen Jun-Qi , Wang Xuan , Sun Wei-Feng , Zhao Hong
Published: September 2020

The water-resistant characteristics of ultraviolet crosslinked polyethylene (UV-XLPE) are investigated specially for the dependence on the hydrophilicities of auxiliary crosslinkers, which is significant to develop high-voltage insulating cable materials. As auxiliary crosslinking agents of polyethylene, triallyl isocyanurate (TAIC), trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TMPTMA), and N,N′-m-phenylenedimaleimide (HAV2) are individually adopted to prepared XLPE materials with the UV-initiation crosslinking technique, for the study of water-tree resistance through the accelerating aging experiments with water blade electrode. The stress–strain characteristics and dynamic viscoelastic properties of UV-XLPE are tested by the electronic tension machine and dynamic thermomechanical analyzer. Monte Carlo molecular simulation is used to calculate the interaction parameters and mixing energy of crosslinker/water binary systems to analyze the compatibility between water and crosslinker molecules. Water-tree experiments verify that XLPE-TAIC represents the highest ability to inhibit the growth of water-trees, while XLPE-HAV2 shows the lowest resistance to water-trees. The stress–strain and viscoelastic properties show that the concentration of molecular chains connecting the adjacent lamellae in amorphous phase of XLPE-HAV2 is significantly higher than that of XLPE-TAIC and XLPE-TMPTMA. The molecular simulation results demonstrate that TAIC/water and TMPTMA/water binary systems possess a higher hydrophilicity than that of HAV2/water, as manifested by their lower interaction parameters and mixing free energies. The auxiliary crosslinkers can not only increase the molecular density of amorphous polyethylene between lamellae to inhibit water-tree growth, but also prevent water molecules at insulation defects from agglomerating into micro-water beads by increasing the hydrophilicity of auxiliary crosslinkers, which will evidently reduce the damage of micro-water beads on the amorphous phase in UV-XLPE. The better compatibility of TAIC and water molecules is the dominant reason accounting for the excellent water resistance of XLPE-TAIC.
Special Issue “Recent Advances in Precision Nanomedicine for Cancer”
Authors: Brignole Chiara , Pastorino Fabio
Published: September 2020

Nanomedicine, the application of nanotechnology at the level of one billionth of a millimeter to medicine, has inspired great interest in the last twenty years, leading to the commercialization of successful products both from a clinical and an economic point of view [...]
Phytochemical Investigation and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of the Leaves of Machilus japonica var. kusanoi
Authors: Li Shiou-Ling , Wu Ho-Cheng , Hwang Tsong-Long , Lin Chu-Hung , Yang Shuen-Shin , Chang Hsun-Shuo
Published: September 2020

In a series of anti-inflammatory screenings of lauraceous plants, the methanolic extract of the leaves of Machilus japonica var. kusanoi (Hayata) J.C. Liao showed potent inhibition on both superoxide anion generation and elastase release in human neutrophils. Bioassay-guided fractionation of the leaves of M. japonica var. kusanoi led to the isolation of twenty compounds, including six new butanolides, machinolides A–F (1–6), and fourteen known compounds (7–20). Their structures were characterized by 1D and 2D NMR, UV, IR, CD, and MS data. The absolute configuration of the new compounds were unambiguously confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses (1, 2, and 3) and Mosher’s method (4, 5, and 6). In addition, lignans, (+)-eudesmin (11), (+)-methylpiperitol (12), (+)-pinoresinol (13), and (+)-galbelgin (16) exhibited inhibitory effects on N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine/cytochalasin B (fMLP/CB)-induced superoxide anion generation in human neutrophils with IC50 values of 8.71 ± 0.74 μM, 2.23 ± 0.92 μM, 6.81 ± 1.07 μM, and 7.15 ± 2.26 μM, respectively. The results revealed the anti-inflammatory potentials of Formosan Machilus japonica var. kusanoi.
Preparation of Continuous Highly Hydrophobic Pure Silica ITQ-29 Zeolite Layers on Alumina Supports
Authors: Palomino Miguel , Ono Hideki , Valencia Susana , Corma Avelino
Published: September 2020

The preparation of continuous layers of highly hydrophobic pure silica ITQ-29 zeolite, potentially applicable as hydrophobic membranes for separation of molecules based on their polarity, has been investigated. Continuous layers of intergrown ITQ-29 zeolite crystals were successfully grown on porous alumina supports by optimization of the synthesis conditions, such as the appropriate selection of the seeds, the procedure for the gel preparation, and the calcination conditions. This resulted in the formation of all silica ITQ-29 zeolite layers without the presence of germanium required in previously reported ITQ-29 membranes, with the subsequent improvement in quality and stability, as verified by the absence of cracks after calcination. We have proved that the incorporation of aluminum from the support into the zeolite layer does not occur, neither during the secondary growth nor through migration of aluminum species during calcination.
Effects of BDNF and PEC Nanoparticles on Osteocytes
Authors: Loy Thomas Leonhard , Vehlow David , Kauschke Vivien , Müller Martin , Heiss Christian , Lips Katrin Susanne
Published: September 2020

Bone substitute materials loaded with mediators that stimulate fracture healing are demanded in the clinical treatment in trauma surgery and orthopedics. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) enhances the proliferation and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblast. To load the implants with BDNF, a drug delivery system that allows the release of BDNF under spatiotemporal control would improve functionality. Polyelectrolyte complex nanoparticles (PECNP) have been reported as a suitable drug delivery system. The suitability of PECNP in contact with osteocytes as the main cell type of bone is not known so far. Thus, we aimed to verify that BDNF and PECNP loaded with BDNF (PECNP+BDNF) as well as pure PECNP have no negative effects on osteocytes in vitro. Therefore, the murine osteocyte cell line MLO-Y4 was treated with BDNF and PECNP+BDNF. The effects on proliferation were analyzed by the BrdU test (n = 5). The results demonstrated a significant increase in proliferation 24 h after BDNF application, whereas PECNP+BDNF did not lead to significant changes. Thus, we conclude that BDNF is an appropriate mediator to stimulate osteocytes. Since the addition of PECNP did not affect the viability of osteocytes, we conclude that PECNP are a suitable drug delivery system for bone implants.
Innovative Advanced Materials for Energy Storage and Beyond: Synthesis, Characterisation and Applications
Authors: Thakur Vijay Kumar
Published: September 2020

Recently, advanced materials have attracted considerable interest owing to their possible applications in different fields such as in catalysts, supercapacitors, capacitors, batteries and other energy storage systems [...]
Levels of n-3 and n-6 Fatty Acids in Maternal Erythrocytes during Pregnancy and in Human Milk and Its Association with Perinatal Mental Health
Authors: Urech Corinne , Eussen Simone R. B. M. , Alder Judith , Stahl Bernd , Boehm Günter , Bitzer Johannes , Bartke Nana , Hoesli Irene
Published: September 2020

Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 FA) status may be associated with mood disorders. Here, we evaluated the potential association between antenatal depression/anxiety and n-3/n-6 FA in (a) maternal erythrocytes and (b) human milk. In addition, we explored associations between n-3/n-6 FA in erythrocytes and in human milk and postpartum depression, while controlling for antenatal depression. Twenty-seven pregnant women diagnosed with a current major depressive disorder (MDD; n = 9), anxiety disorder (AD; n = 10) or a mixed anxiety-depression disorder (MADD; n = 8), and 40 healthy controls were included. n-3/n-6 FA were determined in maternal erythrocytes in gestational week 32 and in human milk in postpartum week 1. In the first week postpartum, the Edinburgh-Postnatal-Depression-Questionnaire was used to assess postpartum depression. Results show that women with M(A)DD had significantly lower erythrocyte levels of total n-3 FA, EPA, DHA and DGLA, and significantly higher n-6 DPA, and n-6:n-3, AA:EPA and n-6 DPA:DHA ratios compared to healthy controls. No significant associations between antenatal depression or anxiety and n-3/n-6 FA in human milk were found. After controlling for antenatal mental health, n-3/n-6 FA in maternal erythrocytes or in human milk were not significantly associated with postpartum depression. In conclusion, antenatal depression, alone or with an anxiety disorder, was associated with lower n-3 FA levels and higher n-6:n-3 FA ratios in maternal erythrocytes during gestation. This study provides some insights into the associations between n-3/n-6 FA levels during pregnancy and lactation and perinatal mental health.
Periodic Revisions of the International Choices Criteria: Process and Results
Authors: van den Assum Sylvie , Schilpzand Rutger , Lissner Lauren , Don Rokiah , Nair Krishnapillai Madhavan , Nnam Ngozi , Uauy Ricardo , Yang Yuexin , Pekcan Ayla Gulden , Roodenburg Annet J. C.
Published: September 2020

Unhealthy diets contribute to an increased risk of non-communicable diseases, which are the leading causes of deaths worldwide. Nutrition policies such as front-of-pack labeling have been developed and implemented globally in different countries to stimulate healthier diets. The Choices Programme, including the International Choices criteria, is an established tool to support the implementation of such policies. The Choices criteria were developed to define the healthier choices per product group, taking saturated fatty acids, trans fatty acids, sodium, sugars, energy, and fiber into account. To keep these criteria updated, they are periodically revised by an independent international scientific committee. This paper explains the most important changes resulting from revisions between 2010 and 2016 and describes the process of the latest revision, resulting in the International Choices criteria version 2019. Revisions were based on national and international nutrition and dietary recommendations, large food composition databases, and stakeholders’ feedback. Other nutrient profiling systems served as benchmarks. The product group classification was adapted and new criteria were determined in order to enhance global applicability and form a credible, intuitively logical system for users. These newly developed criteria will serve as an international standard for healthier products and provide a guiding framework for food and nutrition policies.
Impact of Vitamin D Deficiency on COVID-19—A Prospective Analysis from the CovILD Registry
Authors: Pizzini Alex , Aichner Magdalena , Sahanic Sabina , Böhm Anna , Egger Alexander , Hoermann Gregor , Kurz Katharina , Widmann Gerlig , Bellmann-Weiler Rosa , Weiss Günter , Tancevski Ivan , Sonnweber Thomas , Löffler-Ragg Judith
Published: September 2020

The novel Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a global health concern. Vitamin D (VITD) deficiency has been suggested to alter SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility and the course of disease. Thus, we aimed to investigate associations of VITD status to disease presentation within the CovILD registry. This prospective, multicenter, observational study on long-term sequelae includes patients with COVID-19 after hospitalization or outpatients with persistent symptoms. Eight weeks after PCR confirmed diagnosis, a detailed questionnaire, a clinical examination, and laboratory testing, including VITD status, were evaluated. Furthermore, available laboratory specimens close to hospital admission were used to retrospectively analyze 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels at disease onset. A total of 109 patients were included in the analysis (60% males, 40% females), aged 58 ± 14 years. Eight weeks after the onset of COVID-19, a high proportion of patients presented with impaired VITD metabolism and elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. PTH concentrations were increased in patients who needed intensive care unit (ICU) treatment, while VITD levels were not significantly different between disease severity groups. Low VITD levels at disease onset or at eight-week follow-up were not related to persistent symptom burden, lung function impairment, ongoing inflammation, or more severe CT abnormalities. VITD deficiency is frequent among COVID-19 patients but not associated with disease outcomes. However, individuals with severe disease display a disturbed parathyroid-vitamin-D axis within their recovery phase. The proposed significance of VITD supplementation in the clinical management of COVID-19 remains elusive.
Evaluation of a Revised Home Medication Experience Questionnaire (HOME-Qv2)
Authors: Witry Matthew J. , Fadare Olajide O. , Pham Kassi
Published: September 2020

The Home Medication Experience Questionnaire (HOME-Qv2) was developed to identify patient medication experience issues for pharmacist intervention. The study objectives were to (1) evaluate patient responses to the HOME-Qv2 medication experience questionnaire and (2) describe recommendations made by pharmacists in response to the identified medication experience issues and adoption of recommendations. The study sample was comprised of older adults, 55 years and above, who have one or more chronic illnesses for which they routinely take 4+ prescription medications. The HOME-Qv2 was administered to patients and a pharmacist made recommendations based on the responses. At 3 months, the research team followed up with participants via telephone, during which the HOME-Qv2 was again administered and participants shared their adoption of recommendations. Twenty-four patients completed the questionnaire, and twenty-one were available for follow-up. At 3 months, there was a significant decrease in patient self-reported HOME-Qv2 medication experience issues. There were 31 interventions/recommendations provided by the pharmacists, and 64.5% reported adopted. The HOME-Qv2 appears to facilitate patient disclosure of medication experience issues and informed targeted pharmacist recommendations.
Chemical Compounds, Pharmacological and Toxicological Activity of Brugmansia suaveolens: A Review
Authors: Petricevich Vera L. , Salinas-Sánchez David Osvaldo , Avilés-Montes Dante , Sotelo-Leyva Cesar , Abarca-Vargas Rodolfo
Published: September 2020

This study investigates updated information in different search engines on the distribution, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of Brugmansia suaveolens (Solanaceae) using the extracts or chemical compounds at present. This plant has been used in traditional medicine in different cultures as a hallucinatory, analgesic, aphrodisiac, nematicide, sleep inducer, and muscle relaxant, as well as a treatment for rheumatism, asthma, and inflammation. The flowers, fruits, stems, and roots of the plant are used, and different chemical compounds have been identified, such as alkaloids, volatile compounds (mainly terpenes), coumarins, flavonoids, steroids, and hydrocarbons. The concentration of the different compounds varies according to the biotic and abiotic factors to which the plant is exposed. The toxic effect of the plant is mainly attributed to atropine and scopolamine, their averages in the flowers are 0.79 ± 0.03 and 0.72 ± 0.05 mg/g of dry plant, respectively. Pharmacological studies have shown that an aqueous extract exhibits the antinociceptive effect, at doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg i.p. in mice. On the other hand, the ethanolic extract at 1000 mg/L, showed a nematocidal activity in vitro of 64% against Meloidogyne incognita in 72 h. Likewise, it showed a 100% larvicidal activity at 12.5 mg/L against Ancylostoma spp. In another study, the lethal activity of shrimp in brine from an ethanolic extract showed an LC50 of 106 µg/mL at double serial concentrations of 1000–0 (µg/mL). Although there are pharmacological and phytochemical studies in the plant, they are still scarce, which has potential for the examination of the biological activity of the more than one hundred compounds that have been reported, many of which have not been evaluated.
QTL Mapping and Candidate Gene Analysis for Pod Shattering Tolerance in Soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Seo Jeong-Hyun , Kang Beom-Kyu , Dhungana Sanjeev K. , Oh Jae-Hyeon , Choi Man-Soo , Park Ji-Hee , Shin Sang-Ouk , Kim Hong-Sik , Baek In-Youl , Sung Jung-Sook , Jung Chan-Sik , Kim Ki-Seung , Jun Tae-Hwan
Published: September 2020

Pod shattering is an important reproductive process in many wild species. However, pod shattering at the maturing stage can result in severe yield loss. The objectives of this study were to discover quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for pod shattering using two recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations derived from an elite cultivar having pod shattering tolerance, namely “Daewonkong”, and to predict novel candidate QTL/genes involved in pod shattering based on their allele patterns. We found several QTLs with more than 10% phenotypic variance explained (PVE) on seven different chromosomes and found a novel candidate QTL on chromosome 16 (qPS-DS16-1) from the allele patterns in the QTL region. Out of the 41 annotated genes in the QTL region, six were found to contain SNP (single-nucleotide polymorphism)/indel variations in the coding sequence of the parents compared to the soybean reference genome. Among the six potential candidate genes, Glyma.16g076600, one of the genes with known function, showed a highly differential expression levels between the tolerant and susceptible parents in the growth stages R3 to R6. Further, Glyma.16g076600 is a homolog of AT4G19230 in Arabidopsis, whose function is related to abscisic acid catabolism. The results provide useful information to understand the genetic mechanism of pod shattering and could be used for improving the efficiency of marker-assisted selection for developing varieties of soybeans tolerant to pod shattering.
Establishment of Pluripotent Cell Cultures to Explore Allelopathic Activity of Coffee Cells by Protoplast Co-Culture Bioassay Method
Authors: Ogita Shinjiro , Asrori Muchamad Imam , Sasamoto Hamako
Published: September 2020

We focused on the demonstration of a new pluripotent coffee cell culture system to control the growth and metabolic functions. Somatic cells in the epidermal layer of in vitro somatic embryos (SEs) of Coffea canephora expressed higher pluripotency to produce secondary SEs than primary or secondary meristematic tissue. SEs were ideal explants to selectively induce functionally-differentiated cell lines, both non-embryogenic callus (nEC) and embryogenic callus (EC). The protoplast co-culture bioassay method was used to explore allelopathic activity of these cultured coffee cells. Cell wall formation of lettuce protoplasts varied after five days of co-culture. A strong stimulative reaction was observed at lower nEC protoplast densities, whereas growth was inhibited at higher densities. The reaction of lettuce protoplasts after 12 days of co-culture was recognized as an inhibitory reaction of colony formation.