bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Omics Approaches to Improve Clubroot Resistance in Brassica with a Special Focus on Brassica oleracea L.
Authors: Shaw Ranjan K. , Shen Yusen , Yu Huifang , Sheng Xiaoguang , Wang Jiansheng , Gu Honghui
Published: August 2022

Brassica oleracea is an agronomically important species of the Brassicaceae family, including several nutrient-rich vegetables grown and consumed across the continents. But its sustainability is heavily constrained by a range of destructive pathogens, among which, clubroot disease, caused by a biotrophic protist Plasmodiophora brassicae, has caused significant yield and economic losses worldwide, thereby threatening global food security. To counter the pathogen attack, it demands a better understanding of the complex phenomenon of Brassica-P. brassicae pathosystem at the physiological, biochemical, molecular, and cellular levels. In recent years, multiple omics technologies with high-throughput techniques have emerged as successful in elucidating the responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. In Brassica spp., omics technologies such as genomics, transcriptomics, ncRNAomics, proteomics, and metabolomics are well documented, allowing us to gain insights into the dynamic changes that transpired during host-pathogen interactions at a deeper level. So, it is critical that we must review the recent advances in omics approaches and discuss how the current knowledge in multi-omics technologies has been able to breed high-quality clubroot-resistant B. oleracea. This review highlights the recent advances made in utilizing various omics approaches to understand the host resistance mechanisms adopted by Brassica crops in response to the P. brassicae attack. Finally, we have discussed the bottlenecks and the way forward to overcome the persisting knowledge gaps in delivering solutions to breed clubroot-resistant Brassica crops in a holistic, targeted, and precise way.
Autoantibodies against Complement Classical Pathway Components C1q, C1r, C1s and C1-Inh in Patients with Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Radanova Maria , Vasilev Vasil , Mihaylova Galya , Kosturkova Mariya , Kishore Uday , Roumenina Lubka
Published: August 2022

Autoantibodies against the complement component C1q (anti-C1q) are among the main biomarkers in lupus nephritis (LN) known to contribute to renal injury. C1q, the recognition subcomponent of the complement classical pathway, forms a heterotetrameric complex with C1r and C1s, and can also associate a central complement regulator and C1 Inhibitor (C1-Inh). However, the frequency and the pathogenic relevance of anti-C1r, anti-C1s and anti-C1-Inh autoantibodies remain poorly studied in LN. In this paper, we screened for anti-C1q, anti-C1r, anti-C1s and anti-C1-Inh autoantibodies and evaluated their association with disease activity and severity in 74 LN patients followed up for 5 years with a total of 266 plasma samples collected. The presence of anti-C1q, anti-C1r, anti-C1s and anti-C1-Inh was assessed by ELISA. IgG was purified by Protein G from antigen-positive plasma and their binding to purified C1q, C1r and C1s was examined by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The abilities of anti-C1q, anti-C1r and anti-C1s binding IgG on C1 complex formation were analyzed by ELISA. The screening of LN patients’ plasma revealed 14.9% anti-C1q positivity; only 4.2%, 6.9% and 0% were found to be positive for anti-C1r, anti-C1s and anti-C1-Inh, respectively. Significant correlations were found between anti-C1q and anti-dsDNA, and anti-nuclear antibodies, C3 and C4, respectively. High levels of anti-C1q antibodies were significantly associated with renal histologic lesions and correlated with histological activity index. Patients with the most severe disease (A class according to BILAG Renal score) had higher levels of anti-C1q antibodies. Anti-C1r and anti-C1s antibodies did not correlate with the clinical characteristics of the LN patients, did not interfere with the C1 complex formation, and were not measurable via SPR. In conclusion, the presence of anti-C1q, but not anti-C1s or anti-C1r, autoantibodies contribute to the autoimmune pathology and the severity of LN.
Molecular Interactions between Gasotransmitters in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Pusalavidyasagar Snigdha , Hovde Laurie B. , Lee Jessie , Zhang Lei , Abbasi Adnan , Kartha Reena V.
Published: August 2022

Patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Nitric oxide (NO) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) affect vascular tone and are vasoprotective. Furthermore, hydrogen sulfide (H2S), an HO-1 inducer, is known to be a major effector molecule driving apneas. This study was conducted to examine the molecular relationships between these gasotransmitters and HO-1 in patients with OSA. Individuals who presented for evaluation for possible OSA were recruited and underwent overnight polysomnography. Individuals with an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of >5 per hour (OSA diagnosis) were considered cases (n = 19), while those with an AHI of <5 per hour (n = 6) were the controls. Blood samples were obtained before sleep and again from OSA cases prior to initiating treatment. H2S, NO, and HO-1 levels were assayed. Patients with OSA showed lower NO and H2S levels at baseline compared to controls. NO levels further decreased significantly from baseline in patients at the time of OSA diagnosis, while H2S levels largely showed an increasing trend, which was observed only when the subjects showing a baseline H2S level of >0.5 μM were excluded. Interestingly, analysis of HO-1 did not show a significant change from baseline, confirming the inverse relationship between the two gasotransmitters. The alterations in the bioavailability of endogenous H2S and its molecular interactions with NO and HO-1 regulating vascular tone may play a role in the pathogenesis of CVD in OSA patients.
Do Digital Finance and the Technology Acceptance Model Strengthen Financial Inclusion and SME Performance?
Authors: Thathsarani Udullage Shanika , Jianguo Wei
Published: August 2022

Digital inclusive finance, as a vital engine for the country’s high-quality growth, provides new impetus and prospects for encouraging economic development during the looming economic downturn. SMEs play a significant role in economic growth and development, particularly in developing countries. However, value promoting financial inclusion for SMEs through digitalization is still understudied. The objectives aimed at by this investigation were: to study the impact of financial inclusion on SME performances, to observe the influence of digital financing on financial inclusion and SME performance association as a mediator and to examine how the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) supports financial inclusion and SME performance. A well-structured questionnaire using a quantitative research approach was utilized to gather data from 366 owner-managers among Sri Lankan SMEs. The study’s findings are presented: financial inclusion, digital financing and TAM play influential roles in SME performance. More precisely, digital financing and TAM mediate positively the relationship between financial inclusion and performance in SMEs. The findings of this research endeavor to shed light on developing and popularizing digital financing by providing services which are cheap, secure and low risk from a supply-side perspective, as well as adopting and adjusting digital financing by enhancing financial literacy, which would be necessary from the demand-side perspective.
Relationship between Acylsugars and Leaf Trichomes: Mediators of Pest Resistance in Tomato
Authors: de Lima Filho Renato Barros , Resende Juliano Tadeu Vilela , de Oliveira João Ronaldo Freitas , Nardi Cristiane , Silva Paulo Roberto , Rech Caroline , Oliveira Luiz Vitor Barbosa , Ventura Maurício Ursi , Ribeiro Silva André Luiz Biscaia
Published: August 2022

Tomato plants are highly susceptible to pests. Among the control methods, genetic improvement with introgression of resistance genes from wild accessions into commercial tomato lines is the best alternative for an integrated pest management (IPM). Thus, the objective of this study was to select tomato genotypes in advanced populations (F2BC3), with higher levels of acylsugar content, greater recurrent parent genome recovery, and resistance to Tetranychus urticae and Bemisia tabaci inherited from Solanum pennellii. For pest resistance, bioassays were assessed: nine high-acylsugar genotypes, four low-acylsugar genotypes, and the parents, Solanum lycopersicum or ‘Redenção’, and Solanum pennellii LA-716. Glandular and non-glandular trichomes were quantified. A negative correlation was measured between acylsugar content in the leaflets and pest behavior. Pest resistance was found in the selected F2BC3 genotypes with high-acylsugar content, indicating that this allelochemical was efficient in controlling the arthropod pests.
African Swine Fever Virus: A Review
Authors: Li Zhaoyao , Chen Wenxian , Qiu Zilong , Li Yuwan , Fan Jindai , Wu Keke , Li Xiaowen , Zhao Mingqiu , Ding Hongxing , Fan Shuangqi , Chen Jinding
Published: August 2022

African swine fever (ASF) is a viral disease with a high fatality rate in both domestic pigs and wild boars. ASF has greatly challenged pig-raising countries and also negatively impacted regional and national trade of pork products. To date, ASF has spread throughout Africa, Europe, and Asia. The development of safe and effective ASF vaccines is urgently required for the control of ASF outbreaks. The ASF virus (ASFV), the causative agent of ASF, has a large genome and a complex structure. The functions of nearly half of its viral genes still remain to be explored. Knowledge on the structure and function of ASFV proteins, the mechanism underlying ASFV infection and immunity, and the identification of major immunogenicity genes will contribute to the development of an ASF vaccine. In this context, this paper reviews the available knowledge on the structure, replication, protein function, virulence genes, immune evasion, inactivation, vaccines, control, and diagnosis of ASFV.
4,7-Di(9H-carbazol-9-yl)-[1,2,5]oxadiazolo[3,4-d]pyridazine
Authors: Chmovzh Timofey N. , Kudryashev Timofey A. , Gaisin Karim S. , Rakitin Oleg A.
Published: August 2022

Donor–acceptor–donor (D–A–D)-type molecules are considered as a promising class of NIR fluorescence materials. In this communication, 4,7-di(9H-carbazol-9-yl)-[1,2,5]oxadiazolo[3,4-d]pyridazine was obtained by dehydrogenation of 4,7-bis(1,2,3,4,4a,9a-hexahydro-9H-carbazol-9-yl)-[1,2,5]oxadiazolo[3,4-d]pyridazine with 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone in toluene. The structure of the synthesized compound was established by elemental analysis; high-resolution mass spectrometry; 1H, 13C NMR, IR, and UV spectroscopy; and mass spectrometry. The photophysical properties of the title compound were studied and compared with spectral data of the [1,2,5]thiadiazolo[3,4-d]pyridazine analogue.
Identification of Fibre Content in Edible Flours Using Microwave Dielectric Cell: Concise Review and Experimental Insights
Authors: Ramasamy Ashok , Muniyasamy Sundaram , Čep Robert , Elangovan Muniyandy
Published: August 2022

The quality of edible intake decides the health of the human body and is also responsible for building a healthy immune system in the body. A healthy immune system can protect the body even from invisible attacks of viral or bacterial infections. The assessment of the quality of edible items is not well defined and standardized in many developing countries due to quality assessment difficulties in practice. An alternative well-defined quality assessment approach for edible flours is presented in this paper. Every edible substance has dielectric properties, and it varies from material to material in nature. Edible flours and liquid have different microwave absorption capabilities, based on their natural molecular structure. Based on the microwave energy absorption characteristics of materials, the attenuation constant of edible flours is derived by the waveguide method in this work. In this approach, microwave energy absorption of the edible samples of different types of wheat, rice and millets are observed, and the attenuation constant factors of the samples are then calculated from the tabulated values. The work focuses on the identification of fibre content present in the edible flours. Inferences are made based on the attenuation and its variations with the number of samples, dielectric loss and dielectric constant of the samples. A systematic and concise review of the topic is also included for the benefit of future researchers.
Role of Natural Cross Linkers in Resin–Dentin Bond Durability: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Anumula Lavanya , Ramesh Sindhu , Kolaparthi Venkata Suneel Kumar , Kirubakaran Richard , Karobari Mohmed Isaqali , Arora Suraj , Saleh Ahmed A. , Aldowah Omir , Messina Pietro , Scardina Giuseppe Alessandro
Published: August 2022

Background: The role of endogenous Matrix Metallo Proteinases in resin dentin bond deterioration over time has been well documented. The present study aimed to systematically review the literature; in vitro and ex vivo studies that assessed the outcomes of natural cross-linkers for immediate and long-term tensile bond strength were included. Methods: The manuscript search was carried out in six electronic databases—PubMed/MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, Cochrane, Web of Science and DOAJ, without publication year limits. Only manuscripts in English (including the translated articles) were selected, and the last search was performed in December 2020. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement was followed. Results: From the 128 potentially eligible studies, 48 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. After eligibility assessment and exclusions, 14 studies were considered for systematic review and seven studies for meta-analysis. Amongst the selected studies for meta-analysis, three had a medium and four had a low risk of bias. Conclusions: It was evidenced by the available data that Proanthocyanidin is the most efficient natural cross-linker to date, in preserving the bond strength even after ageing.
Effect of Hydroxyapatite on the Migration of Fe(III) Ions: Kinetic, Equilibrium and Thermodynamic Study
Authors: Ye Qing , Qian Gongming , Liu Lulu , Yang Fu , Liu Wei
Published: August 2022

The recycling and regeneration of Fe(III) is the key point for promoting the oxidation reaction of ore to produce acidic mine drainage (AMD). Hydroxyapatite (HAP) has excellent adsorption ability of Fe(III), which has good biocompatibility and is widely distributed in nature. In order to achieve the source treatment of AMD, the migration and transformation of Fe(III) in the presence of HAP were systematically investigated. In this study, the influence of HAP on the migration of Fe(III) was evaluated though the transformation capacity of Fe(III) by HAP. The adsorption transformation kinetic, equilibrium and thermodynamics of Fe(III) using HAP were also systematic investigated. The transformation efficiency of Fe(III) increased with the increasing initial pH value and reached 99.8% at a pH of 5 due to the hydrolysis reaction. The transformation efficiency was also up to 99% at an initial pH of 2 when the reaction temperature increased to 313 K. However, the transformation capability of Fe(III) decreases with reaction temperature. The kinetics of the adsorption of Fe(III) fitted the pseudo second order kinetic model. Experimental results were also analyzed by the Langmuir isotherm equations at room temperatures. RL separation factor for Langmuir isotherm showed that the migration of Fe(III) is successfully hindered by HAP. Various thermodynamic parameters such as enthalpy (ΔH), Gibbs free energy (ΔG) and entropy (ΔS) changes were computed, which showed that the transport lag of Fe(III) caused by HAP is spontaneous and endothermic.
Friction Modelling for Tube Hydroforming Processes—A Numerical and Experimental Study with Different Viscosity Lubricants
Authors: Galdos Lander , Trinidad Javier , Otegi Nagore , Garcia Carlos
Published: August 2022

The final quality of sheet and tube metal–formed components strongly depends on the tribology and friction conditions between the tools and the material to be formed. Furthermore, it has been recently demonstrated that friction is the numerical input parameter that has the biggest effect in the numerical models used for feasibility studies and process design. For these reasons, industrial dedicated software packages have introduced friction laws which are dependent on sliding velocity, contact pressure and sometimes strain suffered by the sheet, and currently, temperature dependency is being implemented as it has also a major effect on friction. In this work, three lubricants having different viscosity have been characterized using the tube-sliding test. The final aim of the study is to fit friction laws that are contact pressure and sliding velocity dependent for their use in tube hydroforming modeling. The tests performed at various contact pressures and velocities have demonstrated that viscosity has a major effect on friction. Experimental hydroforming tests using the three different lubricants have corroborated the importance of the lubricant in the final forming of a triangular shape. The measurement of the axial forces and the final principal strains of the formed tubes have shown the importance of using advanced friction laws to properly model the hydroforming process using the finite element modeling.
Adsorption of Organic Compounds on Adsorbents Obtained with the Use of Microwave Heating
Authors: Bazan-Wozniak Aleksandra , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta , Nosal-Wiercińska Agnieszka , Pietrzak Robert
Published: August 2022

Activated carbons were obtained by physical and chemical activation of the residue of supercritical extraction of green tea leaves. All the adsorbents obtained were characterized by: elemental analysis, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, and the contents of acidic and basic oxygen functional groups on the surface of activated carbons by the Boehm method. The activated carbons were micro- or micro-mesoporous with well-developed surface area ranging from 520 to 1085 m2/g and total pore volume from 0.62 to 0.64 cm3/g. The physical activation of the precursor led to the strongly basic character of the surface. Chemical activation with 50% solution of H3PO4 of the residue of supercritical extraction of green tea leaves promoted the generation of acidic functional groups. All adsorbents were used for methylene blue and methyl red adsorption from the liquid phase. The influence of the activation method, pH of the dye solution, contact time of adsorbent with adsorbate, the temperature of adsorption, and rate of sample agitation on the effectiveness of organic dyes removal was evaluated and optimized. In the process of methylene blue adsorption on adsorbents, an increase in the sorption capacity was observed with increasing pH of the adsorbate, while in the process of methyl red adsorption, the relation was quite the reverse. The adsorption data were analyzed assuming the Langmuir or Freundlich isotherm models. The Langmuir model better described the experimental results, and the maximum sorption capacity calculated for this model varied from 144.93 to 250.00 mg/g. The results of the kinetic analysis showed that the adsorption of organic dyes on activated carbon was following the pseudo-second-order model. The negative values of the Gibbs free energy indicate the spontaneous character of the process.
New Masjed Jamei–Type Inequalities for Inverse Trigonometric and Inverse Hyperbolic Functions
Authors: Zhu Ling
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we establish two new inequalities of the Masjed Jamei type for inverse trigonometric and inverse hyperbolic functions and apply them to obtain some refinement and extension of Mitrinović–Adamović and Lazarević inequalities. The inequalities obtained in this paper go beyond the conclusions and conjectures in the previous literature. Finally, we apply the main results of this paper to the field of mean value inequality and obtain two new inequalities on Seiffert-like means and classical means.
Numerical Study of Drift Influence on Diffusion Transport through the Hybrid Membrane
Authors: Krasowska Monika , Strzelewicz Anna , Dudek Gabriela , Cieśla Michał
Published: August 2022

Sodium alginate membranes filled with iron oxide nanoparticles consist of a mixture of organic and inorganic phases. This design offers the possibility to combine the polymer’s easy processability and superior separation performance. For a better understanding of the mechanisms of mixture separation, we analyze the diffusion motion of a particle in the hybrid membrane environment. We model structures of two-dimensional heterogenic membranes, which resemble real membrane structures, and then we simulate a random walk on them. We investigate how the additional action of drift changes the motion properties of the diffusing particles through the polymeric membrane filled with inorganic powder. We test the effect of two parameters: the distribution of obstacles (filling) in the membrane and the value of drift on the nature of diffusion. It appears that the synergy between drift, the diffusion, and the membrane structure affect the occurrence of the superdiffusive and subdiffusive character of particle motion as measured by the time-averaged mean square displacement. An important point is the observation that the strong drift supports subdiffusive motion as it increases the chances of particle trapping. Moreover, there exists the optimal value of drift, for which the transport through a membrane speeds up and does not cause trapping.
Sunflower Oilcake as a Potential Source for the Development of Edible Membranes
Authors: Petraru Ancuţa , Amariei Sonia
Published: August 2022

Sunflower oilcake flour (SFOC) resulting from the cold extraction of oil is a rich source of valuable bio-components that stimulated the development of novel, biodegradable and edible films. The films were prepared by incorporating different concentration of sunflower oilcakes (0.1–0.5 g). The obtained films were characterized in terms of physical, water-affinity, antimicrobial and morphological properties. The edible-film properties were affected significantly by the presence and the level of SFOC added. The water vapor permeability and water vapor transmission rate improved with the amount of SFOC added. However, the solubility, oxygen and grease barrier were slightly lower than control film. SEM analysis revealed a rougher but continuous structure with the increases in sunflower oilcake. Moreover, the films with different SFOC levels were opaque, thus presenting good protection against UV radiation. Overall, the SFOC can be use as raw material to produce edible films with suitable properties and microbiological stability for food-packaging applications.
Effect of Different Climatic Regions and Seasonal Variation on the Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity, and Chemical Profile of Helichrysum aureonitens Sch. Bip
Authors: Adeosun Wilson Bamise , Bodede Olusola , Prinsloo Gerhard
Published: August 2022

Native South Africans make use of Helichrysum aureonitens Sch. Bip. extracts for the treatment of a variety of infections and they are important in traditional medicinal preparations. This study investigated the effect of seasonal variation and geographical location on the antibacterial and antifungal activities of H. aureonitens. Material was collected in two different seasons: early spring, with high rainfall and high temperatures (October), and late autumn, with low rainfall and lower temperatures (May). Further analysis was carried out using 1H-NMR based metabolomics to analyse and compare the chemical profiles of the plants in both seasons and locations. Plant materials were collected from two sites for each season, at Wakefield farm (KwaZulu-Natal), representing a colder, wetter environment, and Telperion (Mpumalanga), representing a drier and warmer environment. Leaves of H. aureonitens were tested against bacteria (Proteus vulgaris (P. vulgaris) and Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis)) as well as fungi (Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus), Aspergillus nomius (A. nomius), Cladosporium cladosporioides (C. cladosporioides), Fusarium oxysporum (F. oxysporum) and Penicillum halotolerans (P. halotolerans)). Extracts from the October harvest showed significant activities against the Gram-negative bacterium P. vulgaris compared to the May harvest, with an MIC value of 62.5 µg/mL. Similar activity was observed between the extracts from the wet season across the two geographically different locations. There was generally very good antifungal activity observed for all the species, with the exception of A. nomius, which had MIC values ranging from 0.39–1.56 µg/mL. Extracts of plant materials harvested in the wetter region had a significantly higher activity against A. flavus and F. oxysporum in both seasons than those from plants harvested in the drier region. Telperion-harvested plants exhibited better activity against F. oxysporum in the autumn. Hydrogen-1 NMR metabolomic analysis confirmed the significant effects of the seasons and the peculiar climates of different localities on the secondary metabolite profile of H. aureonitens.
Optomechanical Performances of Advanced Lightweight Mirrors Based on Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Zhang Kai , Xie Xiaolin , Wang Chao , Wang Ha , Xu Fang , Wang He , Zhang Xin , Guan Haijun , Qu Hemeng , Zhang Jizhen
Published: August 2022

Additive manufacturing (AM)—layer-by-layer printing—completely changes the conventional manufacturing method. The design freedom for mirrors is increased without the limits of the manufacturing process. Advanced lightweight mirrors (ALM), new-type mirrors designed using the generative method and lattice technologies, have emerged as the times require. Contrasting with conventional lightweight mirrors (CLM), the performances of ALM are drastically improved. This paper took the Voronoi mirrors as an ALM case study and introduced a design flow. In addition, a conventional honeycomb mirror was designed using the analytical method as the control. The optomechanical performances of the two were further compared through finite element analysis (FEA). Finally, ALM’s optomechanical performances outperformed CLM’s, including the area density, structural stiffness, surface stability, and quilting deflection.
Chemical Composition and Antifungal, Anti-Inflammatory, Antiviral, and Larvicidal Activities of the Essential Oils of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. from China and Myanmar
Authors: Yang Jingjing , Song Xingzhen , Hu Huabin , Zhong Wu , Cao Ruiyuan , Xu Youkai , Li Ren
Published: August 2022

Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. is a widely used traditional medicinal plant to treat fever, flu, stomachache, traumatic injury, and mosquito bite in tropical and subtropical Asia. This study aimed to investigate the antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and larvicidal activities of its fruit essential oil. The essential oil sample from China (EOZC) was mainly composed of limonene (29.78%) and β-myrcene (26.65%), while the sample from Myanmar (EOZM) was dominated by Terpinen-4-ol (43.35%). Both essential oils showed antifungal activity, with 90% minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC90) values ranging from 26.3 to 499 μg/mL. By obviously inhibiting nitric oxide (NO) in RAW 264.7 cells, EOZC (IC50, 16 μg/mL) showed comparable anti-inflammatory activity to the positive control L-NMMA (IC50, 12.2 μg/mL). EOZM showed significant antiviral activity against the dengue virus with an IC50 value of 13 μg/mL. Additionally, both EOZC and EOZM demonstrated dose-dependent larvicidal activity against Aedes albopictus, with LC50 and LC90 values ranging from 45.8 to 144.0 μg/mL. Our results contribute a theoretical foundation for the further application of Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. as an antifungal and anti-inflammatory ingredient in the pharmaceutical industry and further indicate that it has the potential to be developed as a new source of natural and eco-friendly medicine for the prevention and treatment of dengue virus.
Glutathione-Mediated Conjugation of Anticancer Drugs: An Overview of Reaction Mechanisms and Biological Significance for Drug Detoxification and Bioactivation
Authors: Potęga Agnieszka
Published: August 2022

The effectiveness of many anticancer drugs depends on the creation of specific metabolites that may alter their therapeutic or toxic properties. One significant route of biotransformation is a conjugation of electrophilic compounds with reduced glutathione, which can be non-enzymatic and/or catalyzed by glutathione-dependent enzymes. Glutathione usually combines with anticancer drugs and/or their metabolites to form more polar and water-soluble glutathione S-conjugates, readily excreted outside the body. In this regard, glutathione plays a role in detoxification, decreasing the likelihood that a xenobiotic will react with cellular targets. However, some drugs once transformed into thioethers are more active or toxic than the parent compound. Thus, glutathione conjugation may also lead to pharmacological or toxicological effects through bioactivation reactions. My purpose here is to provide a broad overview of the mechanisms of glutathione-mediated conjugation of anticancer drugs. Additionally, I discuss the biological importance of glutathione conjugation to anticancer drug detoxification and bioactivation pathways. I also consider the potential role of glutathione in the metabolism of unsymmetrical bisacridines, a novel prosperous class of anticancer compounds developed in our laboratory. The knowledge on glutathione-mediated conjugation of anticancer drugs presented in this review may be noteworthy for improving cancer therapy and preventing drug resistance in cancers.
Preparation of Polyvinyl Imine Modified Carbon Quantum Dots and Their Application in Methotrexate Detection
Authors: Si Xiaojing , Han Mei , Zeng Hongyan , Wei Xiaoyi
Published: August 2022

Objective: A sensitive and selective fluorescence-detection platform based on carbon quantum dots (CQDs) was designed and developed for the determination of methotrexate (MTX), for the purpose of minimizing the possible toxic threat of MTX in clinics. Methods: The approach was prepared for the first time by a simple, hydrothermal method, making the synthesis and modification processes realized in one step using polyethyleneimine (PEI), and the proposed PEI-CQDs were obtained with high fluorescence quantum yield (38%). Results: MTX was found highly responsive and effective in quenching the fluorescence of the PEI-CQDs, due to a suggested fluorescence resonance energy transfer mechanism or inner-filter effect. The linear range of MTX was between 1 and 600 μmol/L under optimum conditions, with a detection limit (LOD) as low as 0.33 μmol/L. Furthermore, the fluorescent method was established for the MTX assay, and satisfactory results were acquired in real-sample determination. The average labeled quantity was 98.2%, and the average added standard recovery was 100.9%. Conclusions: The proposed PEI-CQDs showed a remarkable potential for broad applications in biological molecule determination and environmental analysis.
Recent Progress of Metal-Organic Frameworks and Metal-Organic Frameworks-Based Heterostructures as Photocatalysts
Authors: Khan Mohammad Mansoob , Rahman Ashmalina , Matussin Shaidatul Najihah
Published: August 2022

In the field of photocatalysis, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have drawn a lot of attention. MOFs have a number of advantages over conventional semiconductors, including high specific surface area, large number of active sites, and an easily tunable porous structure. In this perspective review, different synthesis methods used to prepare MOFs and MOFs-based heterostructures have been discussed. Apart from this, the application of MOFs and MOFs-based heterostructures as photocatalysts for photocatalytic degradation of different types of pollutants have been compiled. This paper also highlights the different strategies that have been developed to modify and regulate pristine MOFs for improved photocatalytic performance. The MOFs modifications may result in better visible light absorption, effective photo-generated charge carriers (e−/h+), separation and transfer as well as improved recyclability. Despite that, there are still many obstacles and challenges that need to be addressed. In order to meet the requirements of using MOFs and MOFs-based heterostructures in photocatalysis for low-cost practical applications, future development and prospects have also been discussed.
Co-Existence of Atomic Pt and CoPt Nanoclusters on Co/SnOx Mix-Oxide Demonstrates an Ultra-High-Performance Oxygen Reduction Reaction Activity
Authors: Beniwal Amisha , Bhalothia Dinesh , Yeh Wei , Cheng Mingxing , Yan Che , Chen Po-Chun , Wang Kuan-Wen , Chen Tsan-Yao
Published: August 2022

An effective approach for increasing the Noble metal-utilization by decorating the atomic Pt clusters (1 wt.%) on the CoO2@SnPd2 nanoparticle (denoted as CSPP) for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is demonstrated in this study. For the optimum case when the impregnation temperature for Co-crystal growth is 50 °C (denoted as CSPP-50), the CoPt nanoalloys and Pt-clusters decoration with multiple metal-to-metal oxide interfaces are formed. Such a nanocatalyst (NC) outperforms the commercial Johnson Matthey-Pt/C (J.M.-Pt/C; 20 wt.% Pt) catalyst by 78-folds with an outstanding mass activity (MA) of 4330 mA mgPt−1 at 0.85 V vs. RHE in an alkaline medium (0.1 M KOH). The results of physical structure inspections along with electrochemical analysis suggest that such a remarkable ORR performance is dominated by the potential synergism between the surface anchored Pt-clusters, CoPt-nanoalloys, and adjacent SnPd2 domain, where Pt-clusters offer ideal adsorption energy for O2 splitting and CoPt-nanoalloys along with SnPd2 domain boost the subsequent desorption of hydroxide ions (OH−).
Recent Advances in Functionalized Nanoparticles in Cancer Theranostics
Authors: Siddique Sarkar , Chow James C. L.
Published: August 2022

Cancer theranostics is the combination of diagnosis and therapeutic approaches for cancer, which is essential in personalized cancer treatment. The aims of the theranostics application of nanoparticles in cancer detection and therapy are to reduce delays in treatment and hence improve patient care. Recently, it has been found that the functionalization of nanoparticles can improve the efficiency, performance, specificity and sensitivity of the structure, and increase stability in the body and acidic environment. Moreover, functionalized nanoparticles have been found to possess a remarkable theranostic ability and have revolutionized cancer treatment. Each cancer treatment modality, such as MRI-guided gene therapy, MRI-guided thermal therapy, magnetic hyperthermia treatment, MRI-guided chemotherapy, immunotherapy, photothermal and photodynamic therapy, has its strengths and weaknesses, and combining modalities allows for a better platform for improved cancer control. This is why cancer theranostics have been investigated thoroughly in recent years and enabled by functionalized nanoparticles. In this topical review, we look at the recent advances in cancer theranostics using functionalized nanoparticles. Through understanding and updating the development of nanoparticle-based cancer theranostics, we find out the future challenges and perspectives in this novel type of cancer treatment.
Biochar-Mediated Zirconium Ferrite Nanocomposites for Tartrazine Dye Removal from Textile Wastewater
Authors: Perveen Shazia , Nadeem Raziya , Nosheen Farhat , Asjad Muhammad Imran , Awrejcewicz Jan , Anwar Tauseef
Published: August 2022

To meet the current challenges concerning the removal of dyes from wastewater, an environmentally friendly and efficient treatment technology is urgently needed. The recalcitrant, noxious, carcinogenic and mutagenic compound dyes are a threat to ecology and its removal from textile wastewater is challenge in the current world. Herein, biochar-mediated zirconium ferrite nanocomposites (BC-ZrFe2O5 NCs) were fabricated with wheat straw-derived biochar and applied for the adsorptive elimination of Tartrazine dye from textile wastewater. The optical and structural properties of synthesized BC-ZrFe2O5 NCs were characterized via UV/Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform Infra-red (FTIR), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Energy dispersive R-Ray (EDX) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The batch modes experiments were executed to explore sorption capacity of BC-ZrFe2O5 NCs at varying operative conditions, i.e., pH, temperature, contact time, initial dye concentrations and adsorbent dose. BC-ZrFe2O5 NCs exhibited the highest sorption efficiency among all adsorbents (wheat straw biomass (WSBM), wheat straw biochar (WSBC) and BC-ZrFe2O5 NCs), having an adsorption capacity of (mg g−1) 53.64 ± 0.23, 79.49 ± 0.21 and 89.22 ± 0.31, respectively, for Tartrazine dye at optimum conditions of environmental variables: pH 2, dose rate 0.05 g, temperature 303 K, time of contact 360 min and concentration 100 mg L−1. For the optimization of process variables, response surface methodology (RSM) was employed. In order to study the kinetics and the mechanism of the adsorption process, kinetic and equilibrium mathematical models were used, and results revealed 2nd order kinetics and a multilayer chemisorption mechanism due to complexation of hydroxyl, Fe and Zr with dyes functional groups. The nanocomposites were also recovered in five cycles without significant loss (89 to 63%) in adsorption efficacy. This research work provides insight into the fabrication of nanoadsorbents for the efficient adsorption of Tartrazine dye, which can also be employed for practical engineering applications on an industrial scale as efficient and cost effective materials.
Cuγ (γ = 1–3)-Modified MoS2 Monolayer as a Gas Sensor for Detecting C4F7N and Its Decomposition Components
Authors: Li Changyun , Chen Peigang , Yu Yongjin , Li Chuanyang
Published: August 2022

Perfluorinated isobutyronitrile (C4F7N) is favored in electrical engineering because it is an environmentally friendly gas-insulating medium with a low greenhouse effect. Unfortunately, under the influence of electricity and over-heating, its decomposition results in the deterioration of its insulating properties, which potentially leads to partial discharge or even gas breakdown. In this paper, the adsorption behavior of C4F7N gas and its toxic decomposition product, acetonitrile (C2N2), on MoS2 surfaces doped with small copper clusters was investigated by calculating the adsorption energy and density of states, etc. The effects of multiple initial adsorption positions as well as externally applied electric fields were also taken into account. The results depict that the maximum adsorption energy of C4F7N on the Cuγ (γ = 1–3)-MoS2 surface gradually decreases with the increase in γ. The Cu3-modified MoS2 is most suitable for use as a resistive-based gas-sensitive sensor substrate. This paper provides the theoretical foundation for the maintenance of future power equipment with environmentally friendly insulating gas.
Antimicrobial Effectiveness of Innovative Photocatalysts: A Review
Authors: Lofrano Giusy , Ubaldi Francesca , Albarano Luisa , Carotenuto Maurizio , Vaiano Vincenzo , Valeriani Federica , Libralato Giovanni , Gianfranceschi Gianluca , Fratoddi Ilaria , Meric Sureyya , Guida Marco , Romano Spica Vincenzo
Published: August 2022

Waterborne pathogens represent one of the most widespread environmental concerns. Conventional disinfection methods, including chlorination and UV, pose several operational and environmental problems; namely, formation of potentially hazardous disinfection by-products (DBPs) and high energy consumption. Therefore, there is high demand for effective, low-cost disinfection treatments. Among advanced oxidation processes, the photocatalytic process, a form of green technology, is becoming increasingly attractive. A systematic review was carried out on the synthesis, characterization, toxicity, and antimicrobial performance of innovative engineered photocatalysts. In recent decades, various engineered photocatalysts have been developed to overcome the limits of conventional photocatalysts using different synthesis methods, and these are discussed together with the main parameters influencing the process behaviors. The potential environmental risks of engineered photocatalysts are also addressed, considering the toxicity effects presented in the literature.
Monkeypox and Its Possible Sexual Transmission: Where Are We Now with Its Evidence?
Authors: Sah Ranjit , Abdelaal Abdelaziz , Reda Abdullah , Katamesh Basant E. , Manirambona Emery , Abdelmonem Hanaa , Mehta Rachana , Rabaan Ali A. , Alhumaid Saad , Alfouzan Wadha A. , Alomar Amer I. , Khamis Faryal , Alofi Fadwa S. , Aljohani Maha H. , Alfaraj Amal H. , Alfaresi Mubarak , Al-Jishi Jumana M. , Alsalman Jameela , Alynbiawi Ahlam , Almogbel Mohammed S. , Rodriguez-Morales Alfonso J.
Published: August 2022

Monkeypox is a rare disease but is increasing in incidence in different countries since the first case was diagnosed in the UK by the United Kingdom (UK) Health Security Agency on 6 May 2022. As of 9 August, almost 32,000 cases have been identified in 89 countries. In endemic areas, the monkeypox virus (MPXV) is commonly transmitted through zoonosis, while in non-endemic regions, it is spread through human-to-human transmission. Symptoms can include flu-like symptoms, rash, or sores on the hands, feet, genitalia, or anus. In addition, people who did not take the smallpox vaccine were more likely to be infected than others. The exact pathogenesis and mechanisms are still unclear; however, most identified cases are reported in men who have sex with other men (MSM). According to the CDC, transmission can happen with any sexual or non-sexual contact with the infected person. However, a recent pooled meta-analysis reported that sexual contact is involved in more than 91% of cases. Moreover, it is the first time that semen analysis for many patients has shown positive monkeypox virus DNA. Therefore, in this review, we will describe transmission methods for MPXV while focusing mainly on potential sexual transmission and associated sexually transmitted infections. We will also highlight the preventive measures that can limit the spread of the diseases in this regard.
Epidemiology of Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens in Domestic Ruminants across Southern African Development Community (SADC) Region from 1980 until 2021: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tawana Mpho , Onyiche ThankGod E. , Ramatla Tsepo , Mtshali Sibusiso , Thekisoe Oriel
Published: August 2022

Ticks are hematophagous ectoparasites that are capable of infesting a wide range of mammals, including domestic animals, ruminants, wildlife, and humans across the world, and they transmit disease-causing pathogens. Numerous individual epidemiological studies have been conducted on the distribution and prevalence of ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) in the Southern African Developing Community (SADC) region, but no effort has been undertaken to synchronize findings, which would be helpful in the implementation of consolidated tick control measures. With the aim of generating consolidated pooled prevalence estimates of ticks and TBDs in the SADC region, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of published articles using the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A deep search was performed on five electronic databases, namely, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, AJOL, and Springer Link. Of the 347 articles identified, only 61 of the articles were eligible for inclusion. In total, 18,355 tick specimens were collected, belonging to the genera Amblyomma, Haemaphysalis, Hyalomma, and Rhipicephalus (including Boophilus) across several countries, including South Africa (n = 8), Tanzania (n = 3), Zambia (n = 2), Zimbabwe (n = 2), Madagascar (n = 2), Angola (n = 2), Mozambique (n = 1), and Comoros (n = 1). The overall pooled prevalence estimate (PPE) of TBPs in livestock was 52.2%, with the highest PPE in cattle [51.2%], followed by sheep [45.4%], and goats [29.9%]. For bacteria-like and rickettsial TBPs, Anaplasma marginale had the highest PPE of 45.9%, followed by A. centrale [14.7%], A. phagocytophilum [2.52%], and A. bovis [0.88%], whilst Ehrlichia ruminantium had a PPE of 4.2%. For piroplasmids, Babesia bigemina and B. bovis had PPEs of 20.8% and 20.3%, respectively. Theileria velifera had the highest PPE of 43.0%, followed by T. mutans [29.1%], T. parva [25.0%], and other Theileria spp. [14.06%]. Findings from this study suggest the need for a consolidated scientific approach in the investigation of ticks, TBPs, and TBDs in the whole SADC region, as most of the TBDs are transboundary and require a regional control strategy.
Galangin Exhibits Neuroprotective Effects in 6-OHDA-Induced Models of Parkinson’s Disease via the Nrf2/Keap1 Pathway
Authors: Chen Qiu-Xu , Zhou Ling , Long Tao , Qin Da-Lian , Wang Yi-Ling , Ye Yun , Zhou Xiao-Gang , Wu Jian-Ming , Wu An-Guo
Published: August 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, and there is still no cure for it. PD is characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, and oxidative stress has been considered an important pathological mechanism. Therefore, the discovery of antioxidants to alleviate the oxidative damage of dopaminergic neurons is a promising therapeutic strategy for PD. First, a network pharmacology approach was used, and nine common core targets of galangin and PD were screened, mainly involving cell aging, apoptosis, and cellular responses to hydrogen peroxide and hypoxia. In addition, the Gene Ontology (GO) function and pathway enrichment analysis of the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) identified apoptosis, PI3K/Akt, and HIF-1 signaling pathways. Furthermore, the molecular docking results revealed a strong affinity between galangin and the NFE2L2/Nrf2 protein. To validate the above predictions, we employed 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) to induce neuronal death in HT22 cells and Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). MTT, cell morphology observation, and Hoechst 33342-PI staining results showed that galangin significantly increased the viability of 6-OHDA-treated HT22 cells. In addition, galangin inhibited 6-OHDA-induced ROS generation and apoptosis in HT22 cells. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that galangin activates the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway, as evidenced by the decreased protein expression of Keap1 and increased protein expression of Nrf2 and HO-1. In the 6-OHDA-induced PD model of C. elegans, galangin indeed inhibited the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, improved behavioral ability, and decreased ROS generation. In conclusion, the current study is the first to show that galangin has the capacity to inhibit neuronal degeneration via the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, suggesting that galangin is a possible PD treatment.