bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endophytic Fungi: From Symbiosis to Secondary Metabolite Communications or Vice Versa?
Authors: Alam Beena , Lǐ Jùnwén , Gě Qún , Khan Mueen Alam , Gōng Jǔwǔ , Mehmood Shahid , Yuán Yǒulù , Gǒng Wànkuí
Published: December 2021

Endophytic fungi (EF) are a group of fascinating host-associated fungal communities that colonize the intercellular or intracellular spaces of host tissues, providing beneficial effects to their hosts while gaining advantages. In recent decades, accumulated research on endophytic fungi has revealed their biodiversity, wide-ranging ecological distribution, and multidimensional interactions with host plants and other microbiomes in the symbiotic continuum. In this review, we highlight the role of secondary metabolites (SMs) as effectors in these multidimensional interactions, and the biosynthesis of SMs in symbiosis via complex gene expression regulation mechanisms in the symbiotic continuum and via the mimicry or alteration of phytochemical production in host plants. Alternative biological applications of SMs in modern medicine, agriculture, and industry and their major classes are also discussed. This review recapitulates an introduction to the research background, progress, and prospects of endophytic biology, and discusses problems and substantive challenges that need further study.
The Moderating Role of Anticipated Regret and Product Involvement on Online Impulsive Buying Behavior
Authors: Li Bin , Hu Minqi , Chen Xiaoxi , Lei Yongxin
Published: December 2021

Online impulsive buying behavior has drawn an increasing amount of attention from researchers and marketers as well; however, little research has explored how cognitive aspect and emotional aspect effect online impulsive buying together. The study examines the role of product involvement (cognitive aspect) and anticipated regret (emotional aspect) on the online impulsive buying behavior of the consumer. The results indicate that consumers who experienced downward anticipated regret showed more online impulsive buying behavior than those who experienced upward anticipated regret. Moreover, anticipated regret moderates the relationship between product involvement and online impulsive buying behavior, for participants who experienced downward anticipated regret showing more online impulsive buying behavior than those who experienced upward anticipated regret in the low product involvement group, but there is no differential between downward and upward anticipated regret in the high involvement product group. These findings suggest that anticipated regret helps consumers make more deliberative online shopping choices. The implications for both future research and online consumers are discussed.
West Meets East in a New Two-Polarities Model of Personality: Combining Self-Relatedness Structure With Independent-Interdependent Functions
Authors: Fan Weiqiao , Li Mengting , Leong Frederick , Zhou Mingjie
Published: December 2021

Self and relatedness are the two most essential dimensions of personality, as indicated in many personality theories, and have been supported by numerous empirical studies conducted in the western (individualistic) and eastern (collectivist) contexts. However, because of a confusion or failure to distinguish the structure and function of personality, popular theories (e.g., the Big Five model) do not make logic distinctions between these two basic personality dimensions. In terms of the cultural-relevant feature, both self and relatedness and their specific aspects may be variously highlighted in different cultural settings. On the basis of a re-examination of several crucial two-dimension (namely, self and relatedness) personality theories derived from the east and west, we reconstruct a new two polarities personality model to include not only self and relatedness but also the independent and interdependent functions in terms of some popular personality theories from western and eastern cultures. Theoretically and empirically, self and relatedness should be the basic structures of personality, whereas independence and interdependence should be the basic functions of personality. Self and relatedness have independent and interdependent functions; however, due to the cultural relevance of personality, the functions should be variously emphasized in different contexts. Several possible future research directions are discussed.
Adolescents’ Personality Development – A Question of Psychosocial Stress
Authors: Raufelder Diana , Hoferichter Frances , Kulakow Stefan , Golde Sabrina , Gleich Tobias , Romund Lydia , Lorenz Robert C. , Pelz Patricia , Beck Anne
Published: December 2021

Following the relational-developmental systems approach, this three-wave study examines whether acute stress (T2) mediates the relationship between the development of personality traits from the beginning of 8th grade (T1, Mage = 15.63, SD = 0.59; 22 girls) to the end of 9th grade (T3). Using the Montréal Imaging Stress Task, which is a task that provokes acute social stress by negative social feedback, this study combined the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), heart rate, and longitudinal survey data of 41 adolescents. Mediation analysis revealed that stress-induced left insula activation partially mediates the longitudinal stability of conscientiousness. These results highlight the impact of negative social feedback during stress on students’ personality development.
An Investigation of Behavioural and Self-Reported Cognitive Empathy Deficits in Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorders and Adolescents With Behavioural Difficulties
Authors: Vilas Sara P. , Reniers Renate L. E. P. , Ludlow Amanda K.
Published: December 2021

Deficits in empathy have been considered hallmarks in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) but are also considered to underlie antisocial behaviour associated with individuals with callous unemotional traits (CU). Research has suggested that individuals with autism spectrum disorders show more difficulties with cognitive empathy, and that individuals diagnosed with behaviours difficulties, characterised by CU traits and antisocial behaviour, demonstrate low affective empathy. In the current manuscript we present findings of two studies. The first study describes the validation of a new stimulus set developed for the empathic accuracy task, focused on its cognitive component. The second study compares the performance of 27 adolescents with ASD, 27 age matched typically developing adolescents and 17 adolescents with behavioural difficulties on the empathic accuracy task and a self-report measure of empathy. While, no differences were observed between the three groups across the empathy accuracy task, the adolescents with ASD and CD showed deficits in their cognitive empathy across the self-report measure. Adolescents with ASD showed lower scores in particularly their perspective taking abilities, whereas the adolescences with behavioural difficulties showed more difficulties with their online simulation. No differences in self-reported affective empathy across the three groups were observed. Clinical implications of the findings are discussed.
The Association Between Suicide Attempts, Anxiety, and Childhood Maltreatment Among Adolescents and Young Adults With First Depressive Episodes
Authors: Chen Hui , Li Wen , Cao Xia , Liu Peiqu , Liu Jiali , Chen Xianliang , Luo Chenyuli , Liang Xiaoxi , Guo Huijuan , Zhong Shaoling , Wang Xiaoping , Zhou Jiansong
Published: December 2021

Objective: Adolescents and young adults are susceptible to high-risk behaviors such as self-harm and suicide. However, the impact of childhood maltreatment on suicide attempts in adolescents and young adults with first episode of depression remains unclear. This study examined the association between suicide attempts and childhood maltreatment among adolescents and young adults with first depressive episodes.

Methods: A total of 181 adolescents and young adults with first depressive episodes were included. The Child Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2) were used to assess childhood maltreatment and the severity of anxiety and depressive symptoms, respectively. The suicide item in the MINI-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) 5.0 was used to assess the suicide attempts. Logistic regression analyses were used to explore the associated factors of suicide attempts.

Results: The prevalence of SA in the total sample was 31.5% (95% CI = 24.9–38.1%). Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that the diagnosis of bipolar disorder (OR = 2.18, 95% CI = 1.07–4.40), smoking (OR = 2.64, 95% CI = 1.10–6.37), anxiety symptoms (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.02–1.08), and childhood maltreatment (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01–1.07) were potential associated factors of SA. In addition, anxiety symptoms had a mediating effect on the relationship between childhood maltreatment and SA.

Conclusion: Adolescents and young adults with first depressive episodes and having experiences of childhood maltreatment are at a high risk of suicide. The severity of anxiety symptoms may mediate the relation between childhood maltreatment and suicide attempts in this group of patients.
Autoimmune Encephalitis and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Whiteley Paul , Marlow Ben , Kapoor Ritika R. , Blagojevic-Stokic Natasa , Sala Regina
Published: December 2021

The concept of “acquired autism” refers to the hypothesis that amongst the massive heterogeneity that encompasses autism spectrum disorder (ASD) there may be several phenotypes that are neither syndromic nor innate. Strong and consistent evidence has linked exposure to various pharmacological and infective agents with an elevated risk of a diagnosis of ASD including maternal valproate use, rubella and herpes encephalitis. Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) describes a group of conditions characterised by the body's immune system mounting an attack on healthy brain cells causing brain inflammation. The resultant cognitive, psychiatric and neurological symptoms that follow AE have also included ASD or autism-like traits and states. We review the current literature on AE and ASD. Drawing also on associated literature on autoimmune psychosis (AP) and preliminary evidence of a psychosis-linked subtype of ASD, we conclude that AE may either act as a potentially causative agent for ASD, and/or produce symptoms that could easily be mistaken for or misdiagnosed as autism. Further studies are required to discern the connection between AE and autism. Where autism is accompanied by regression and atypical onset patterns, it may be prudent to investigate whether a differential diagnosis of AE would be more appropriate.
Viloxazine in the Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Edinoff Amber N. , Akuly Haseeb A. , Wagner John H. , Boudreaux Megan A. , Kaplan Leah A. , Yusuf Shadman , Neuchat Elisa E. , Cornett Elyse M. , Boyer Andrea G. , Kaye Adam M. , Kaye Alan D.
Published: December 2021

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder in children. Over the past twenty years, research on the disease and its characteristics and treatment options has grown exponentially. The first-line pharmacologic treatment of ADHD is stimulants, which have a response rate of ~70%. With the support of four phase 3 studies involving more than 1,000 pediatric patients 6–17 years old, the FDA has approved the non-stimulant, serotonin-norepinephrine modulating agent (SNMA) viloxazine in an extended-release capsule (viloxazine ER) for treatment of ADHD in children aged 6–17. Viloxazine modulates serotonergic activity as a selective 5-HT22B receptor antagonist and 5-HT2C receptor agonist and moderately inhibits norepinephrine transporter (NET), thus blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine. A phase 2 study by Johnson et al. found that once-daily dosing of viloxazine ER in 200, 300, or 400 mg dosages in children with ADHD for eight weeks resulted in a statistically significant reduction of ADHD-RS-IV total score. A post hoc analysis of data from four phase 3, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, three-arm, clinical trials by Faraone et al. found that early response to viloxazine treatment, defined as a change in ADHD-RS-5 total score at week 2, best predicted the treatment response at week 6 [75% positive predictive power (PPP), 75% sensitivity]. Proper treatment of the symptoms and comorbidities associated with ADHD is crucial in improving a patient's quality of life, cognitive function, and overall therapeutic outcomes. Viloxazine's mechanism of action, clinical effects, and limited side effect profile point toward the drug's relevance in the treatment of ADHD.
Is Homeopathic Arnica Effective for Postoperative Recovery? A Meta-analysis of Placebo-Controlled and Active Comparator Trials
Authors: Gaertner Katharina , Baumgartner Stephan , Walach Harald
Published: December 2021

Background:HomeopathicArnica montanais used in surgery as prevention or treatment for the reduction of pain and other sequelae of surgery. Our aim was to perform a metaanalysis of clinical trials to assess efficacy ofArnica montanato reduce the inflammatory response after surgery.

Method:We conducted a systematic review and metaanalysis, following a predefined protocol, of all studies on the use of homeopathicArnica montanain surgery. We included all randomized and nonrandomized studies comparing homeopathicArnicato a placebo or to another active comparator and calculated two quantitative metaanalyses and appropriate sensitivity analyses. We used “Hegde's g,” an effect size estimator which is equivalent to a standardized mean difference corrected for small sample bias. The PROSPERO registration number is CRD42020131300.

Results:Twenty-three publications reported on 29 different comparisons. One study had to be excluded because no data could be extracted, leaving 28 comparisons. Eighteen comparisons used placebo, nine comparisons an active control, and in one caseArnicawas compared to no treatment. The metaanalysis of the placebo-controlled trials yielded an overall effect size of Hedge's g = 0.18 (95% confidence interval −0.007/0.373;p= 0.059). Active comparator trials yielded a highly heterogeneous significant effect size of g = 0.26. This is mainly due to the large effect size of nonrandomized studies, which converges against zero in the randomized trials.

Conclusion:HomeopathicArnicahas a small effect size over and against placebo in preventing excessive hematoma and other sequelae of surgeries. The effect is comparable to that of anti-inflammatory substances.
Surgical Strategies to Reduce Postoperative Recurrence of Crohn's Disease After Ileocolic Resection
Authors: Reynolds Ian S. , Doogan Katie L. , Ryan Éanna J. , Hechtl Daniel , Lecot Frederik P. , Arya Shobhit , Martin Sean T.
Published: December 2021

Postoperative recurrence after ileocaecal resection for fibrostenotic terminal ileal Crohn's disease is a significant issue for patients as it can result in symptom recurrence and requirement for further surgery. There are very few modifiable factors, aside from smoking cessation, that can reduce the risk of postoperative recurrence. Until relatively recently, the surgical technique used for resection and anastomosis had little or no impact on postoperative recurrence rates. Novel surgical techniques such as the Kono-S anastomosis and extended mesenteric excision have shown promise as ways to reduce postoperative recurrence rates. This manuscript will review and discuss the evidence regarding a range of surgical techniques and their potential role in reducing disease recurrence. Some of the techniques have been shown to be associated with significant benefits for patients and have already been integrated into the routine clinical practice of some surgeons, while other techniques remain under investigation. Current techniques such as resection of the mesentery close to the intestine and stapled side to side anastomosis are being challenged. It is looking more likely that surgeons will have a major role to play when it comes to reducing recurrence rates for patients undergoing ileocaecal resection for Crohn's disease.
A Link between Mitochondrial Dysregulation and Idiopathic Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Alterations in Mitochondrial Respiratory Capacity and Membrane Potential
Authors: Hassan Hazirah , Zakaria Fazaine , Makpol Suzana , Karim Norwahidah Abdul
Published: December 2021

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder triggered by various factors through complex mechanisms. Research has been done to elucidate the potential etiologic mechanisms in ASD, but no single cause has been confirmed. The involvement of oxidative stress is correlated with ASD and possibly affects mitochondrial function. This study aimed to elucidate the link between mitochondrial dysregulation and idiopathic ASD by focusing on mitochondrial respiratory capacity and membrane potential. Our findings showed that mitochondrial function in the energy metabolism pathway was significantly dysregulated in a lymphoblastoid cell line (LCL) derived from an autistic child (ALCL). Respiratory capacities of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), electron transfer of the Complex I and Complex II linked pathways, membrane potential, and Complex IV activity of the ALCL were analyzed and compared with control cell lines derived from a developmentally normal non-autistic sibling (NALCL). All experiments were performed using high-resolution respirometry. Respiratory capacities of OXPHOS, electron transfer of the Complex I- and Complex II-linked pathways, and Complex IV activity of the ALCL were significantly higher compared to healthy controls. Mitochondrial membrane potential was also significantly higher, measured in the Complex II-linked pathway during LEAK respiration and OXPHOS. These results indicate the abnormalities in mitochondrial respiratory control linking mitochondrial function with autism. Correlating mitochondrial dysfunction and autism is important for a better understanding of ASD pathogenesis in order to produce effective interventions.
Effect of Ethanol on Parthenogenetic Activation and α-Tocopherol Supplementation during In Vitro Maturation on Developmental Competence of Summer-Collected Bovine Oocytes
Authors: Báez Francisco , Gómez Belén , de Brun Victoria , Rodríguez-Osorio Nélida , Viñoles Carolina
Published: December 2021

The use of α-tocopherol during in vitro maturation (IVM) is an alternative to minimize the adverse effects of heat stress on oocyte competence. However, α-tocopherol is diluted in ethanol, which can induce oocyte parthenogenetic activation (PA). This study aimed to evaluate the role of ethanol concentration on PA and the effect of α-tocopherol supplementation during IVM on the developmental competence and the expression of key genes in blastocysts derived from summer-collected oocytes. All in vitro embryo production was conducted at 5% O2, 5% CO2 at 38.5 °C. Experiment 1: oocytes were cultured with or without 0.05% ethanol. As positive PA control matured oocytes were subjected to 3% or 7% ethanol for 7 min. Oocytes from all groups were placed in fertilization medium (22 h) and culture medium (9 days). Ethanol at 0.05% during IVM did not induce oocyte PA, however, 3% and 7% ethanol were effective parthenogenetic inductors. Experiment 2: oocytes were cultured in maturation medium supplemented with 0, 50, 100 and 200 μM α-tocopherol, diluted in 0.05% ethanol. After in vitro fertilization and embryo culture, we assessed blastocyst apoptotic index and the transcription of a panel of genes. The results showed that supplementation with 100 μM α-tocopherol reduced apoptotic index and increased the expression of SOD2. In conclusion, 100 μM α-tocopherol, diluted in 0.05% ethanol, can be used during IVM to embryonic quality.
The Anti-Proliferative Activity of Secondary Metabolite from the Marine Streptomyces sp. against Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Lin Hung-Yu , Lin Yong-Shiou , Shih Shou-Ping , Lee Sung-Bau , El-Shazly Mohamed , Chang Ken-Ming , Yang Yu-Chen S. H. , Lee Yi-Lun , Lu Mei-Chin
Published: December 2021

Many active substances from marine organisms are produced by symbiotic microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae. Secondary metabolites from marine actinomycetes exhibited several biological activities and provided interesting drug leads. This study reported the isolation of Lu01-M, a secondary metabolite from the marine actinomycetes Streptomyces sp., with potent anti-proliferative activity against prostate cancers. Lu01-M blocked cell proliferation with IC50 values of 1.03 ± 0.31, 2.12 ± 0.38, 1.27 ± 0.25 μg/mL in human prostate cancer PC3, DU145, and LNCaP cells, respectively. Lu01-M induced cytotoxic activity through multiple mechanisms including cell apoptosis, necroptosis, autophagy, ER stress, and inhibiting colony formation and cell migration. Lu01-M induced cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and DNA damage. However, the activity of autophagy induced survival response in cancer cells. Our findings suggested that Lu01-M holds the potential to be developed as an anti-cancer agent against prostate cancers.
Waveguide Manufacturing Technologies for Next-Generation Millimeter-Wave Antennas
Authors: Polo-López Lucas , Sanchez-Olivares Pablo , García-Marín Eduardo , Ruiz-Cruz Jorge , Córcoles Juan , Masa-Campos José , Montejo-Garai José , Rebollar Jesús
Published: December 2021

Some recent waveguide-based antennas are presented in this paper, designed for the next generation of communication systems operating at the millimeter-wave band. The presented prototypes have been conceived to be manufactured using different state-of-the-art techniques, involving subtractive and additive approaches. All the designs have used the latest developments in the field of manufacturing to guarantee the required accuracy for operation at millimeter-wave frequencies, where tolerances are extremely tight. Different designs will be presented, including a monopulse antenna combining a comparator network, a mode converter, and a spline profile horn; a tunable phase shifter that is integrated into an array to implement reconfigurability of the main lobe direction; and a conformal array antenna. These prototypes were manufactured by diverse approaches taking into account the waveguide configuration, combining parts with high-precision milling, electrical discharge machining, direct metal laser sintering, or stereolithography with spray metallization, showing very competitive performances at the millimeter-wave band till 40 GHz.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Flash Memory Devices
Authors: Zambelli Cristian , Micheloni Rino
Published: December 2021

Flash memory devices represented a breakthrough in the storage industry since their inception in the mid-1980s, and innovation is still ongoing after more than 35 years [...]
Isolation and Optimization of Culture Conditions of a Bioflocculant-Producing Fungi from Kombucha Tea SCOBY
Authors: Tsilo Phakamani H. , Basson Albertus K. , Ntombela Zuzingcebo G. , Maliehe Tsolanku S. , Pullabhotla Rajasekhar V. S. R.
Published: December 2021

Biolocculants are gaining attention in research due to their environmental friendliness and innocuousness to human in comparison to the conventional flocculants. The present study aimed to investigate the ability of fungi from Kombucha tea SCOBY to produce effective bioflocculant in bulk. A 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis was utilized to identify the isolate. The medium composition (carbon and nitrogen sources) and culture conditions (inoculum size, temperature, shaking speed, pH, and time) were optimized using one-factor-at-a-time method. The functional groups, morphology, and crystallinity of the bioflocculant were evaluated using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), scan electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The fungus was found to be Pichia kudriavzevii MH545928.1. It produced a bioflocculant with flocculating activity of 99.1% under optimum conditions; 1% (v/v) inoculum size, glucose and peptone as nutrient sources, 35 °C, pH 7 and the shaking speed of 140 rpm for 60 h. A cumulus-like structure was revealed by SEM; FT-IR displayed the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl, amine, and thiocynates. The XRD analysis demonstrated the bioflocculant to have big particles with diffraction peaks at 10° and 40° indicating its crystallinity. Based on the obtained results, P. kudriavzevii MH545928.1 has potential industrial applicability as a bioflocculant producer.
Development of Sustainable Chemistry in Madagascar: Example of the Valuation of CNSL and the Use of Chromones as an Attractant for Mosquitoes
Authors: Ranarijaona Miarintsoa Michaele , Rambala Rakotomena Ny Aina Harivony , Andrianjafy Mbolatiana Tovo , Ramiharimanana Fenia Diane , Herinirina Lydia Clarisse , Ramarosandratana Niry Hasinandrianina , Briou Benoit , Fajardie Pauline , Mavingui Patrick , Métay Estelle , Ramanandraibe Voahangy Vestalys , Lemaire Marc
Published: December 2021

This article describes a part of the results obtained from the cooperation between the University of Lyon1 (France) and the University of Antananarivo (Madagascar). It shows (among others) that useful research can be carried out in developing countries of the tropics if their social, technical, and economic conditions are taken into account. The concepts and methods associated with so-called “green chemistry” are particularly appropriated for this purpose. To illustrate this approach, two examples are shown. The first deals with industrial ecology and concerns waste transformation from the production of cashew nut into an amphiphilic product, oxyacetic derivatives. This product was obtained with a high yield and in a single step reaction. It exhibited an important surfactant property similar to those of the main fossil-based ones but with a much lower ecological impact. The second talks about chemical ecology as an alternative to insecticides and used to control dangerous mosquito populations. New substituted chromones were synthesized and showed biological activities toward Aedes albopictus mosquito species. Strong repellent properties were recorded for some alkoxylated products if others had a significant attractant effect (Kairomone) depending on their stereochemistry and the length of the alkyl chain.
Attomole-per Cell Atomic Mass Spectrometry Measurement of Platinum and Gold Drugs in Cultured Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Jakubczak Wioletta , Haczyk-Więcek Maja , Pawlak Katarzyna
Published: December 2021

In this study, we developed a strategy to determine atto- and femtomolar amounts of metal ions in lysates and mineralizates of cells (human non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC, A549) and normal lung (MRC-5)) exposed to cytotoxic metallo-drugs: cisplatin and auranofin at concentrations close to the half-maximal inhibitory drug concentrations (IC50). The developed strategy combines data obtained using biological and chemical approaches. Cell density was determined using two independent cell staining assays using trypan blue, calcein AM/propidium iodide. Metal concentrations in lysed and mineralized cells were established employing a mass spectrometer with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-MS) and equipped with a cross-flow nebulizer working in aspiration mode. It allowed for detecting of less than 1 fg of metal per cell. To decrease the required amount of sample material (from 1.5 mL to ~100 µL) without loss of sensitivity, the sample was introduced as a narrow band into a constant stream of liquid (flow-injection analysis). It was noticed that the selectivity of cisplatin accumulation by cells depends on the incubation time. This complex is accumulated by cells at a lower efficiency than auranofin and is found primarily in the lysate representing the cytosol. In contrast, auranofin interacts with water-insoluble compounds. Despite their different mechanism of action, both metallo-drugs increased the accumulation of transition metal ions responsible for oxidative stress.
Botanical Origin Differentiation of Malaysian Stingless Bee Honey Produced by Heterotrigona itama and Geniotrigona thoracica Using Chemometrics
Authors: Ng Wen-Jie , Sit Nam-Weng , Ooi Peter Aun-Chuan , Ee Kah-Yaw , Lim Tuck-Meng
Published: December 2021

Stingless bee honey, specifically honeydew honey, is generally valued for its better health benefits than those of most blossom types. However, scientific studies about the differentiation of stingless bee honey based on honeydew and blossom origins are very limited. In this study, 13C NMR spectroscopy was employed to quantify the seven major sugar tautomers in stingless bee honey samples, and the major sugar compositions of both honeydew and blossom types were found not significantly different. However, several physicochemical properties of honeydew honey including moisture content, free acidity, electrical conductivity, ash content, acetic acid, diastase, hydrogen peroxide, and mineral elements levels were significantly higher; while total soluble solid, proline, and hydroxymethylfurfural were significantly lower than blossom honey. Greater antioxidant capacity in honeydew honey was proven with higher total phenolic compounds, ABTS, DPPH, superoxide radical scavenging activities, peroxyl radical inhibition, iron chelation, and ferric reducing power. Using principal component analysis (PCA), two clusters of stingless bee honey from the honeydew and blossom origin were observed. PCA also revealed that the differentiation between honeydew and blossom origin of stingless bee honey is possible with certain physicochemical and antioxidant parameters. The combination of NMR spectroscopy and chemometrics are suggested to be useful to determine the authenticity and botanical origin of stingless bee honey.
Unravelling the Photoprotection Properties of Garden Cress Sprout Extract
Authors: Abiola Temitope T. , Auckloo Nazia , Woolley Jack M. , Corre Christophe , Poigny Stéphane , Stavros Vasilios G.
Published: December 2021

Plants, as with humans, require photoprotection against the potentially damaging effects of overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Previously, sinapoyl malate (SM) was identified as the photoprotective agent in thale cress. Here, we seek to identify the photoprotective agent in a similar plant, garden cress, which is currently used in the skincare product Detoxophane nc. To achieve this, we explore the photodynamics of both the garden cress sprout extract and Detoxophane nc with femtosecond transient electronic absorption spectroscopy. With the assistance of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, we determine that the main UV-absorbing compound in garden cress sprout extract is SM. Importantly, our studies reveal that the photoprotection properties of the SM in the garden cress sprout extract present in Detoxophane nc are not compromised by the formulation environment. The result suggests that Detoxophane nc containing the garden cress sprout extract may offer additional photoprotection to the end user in the form of a UV filter booster.
Determination of 60 Migrant Substances in Plastic Food Contact Materials by Vortex-Assisted Liquid-Liquid Extraction and GC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS
Authors: Miralles Pablo , Yusà Vicent , Sanchís Yovana , Coscollà Clara
Published: December 2021

A GC-HRMS analytical method for the determination of 60 migrant substances, including aldehydes, ketones, phthalates and other plasticizers, phenol derivatives, acrylates, and methacrylates, in plastic food contact materials (FCM) has been developed and validated. The proposed method includes migration tests, according to Commission Regulation (EU) 10/2011, using four food simulants (A, B, C, and D1), followed by vortex-assisted liquid–liquid extraction (VA-LLE) and GC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis in selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode, with a resolving power of 30,000 FWHM and a mass accuracy ≤5 ppm. The method was validated, showing satisfactory linearity (R2 ≥ 0.98 from 40 to 400 µg L−1), limits of quantification (40 µg L−1), precision (RSD, 0.6–12.6%), and relative recovery (81–120%). The proposed method was applied to the analysis of field samples, including an epoxy-coated tin food can, a drinking bottle made of Tritan copolyester, a disposable glass made of polycarbonate, and a baby feeding bottle made of polypropylene, showing that they were in compliance with the current European regulation regarding the studied substances.
Preclinical Investigation in Neuroprotective Effects of the GPR55 Ligand VCE-006.1 in Experimental Models of Parkinson’s Disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Burgaz Sonia , García Concepción , Gonzalo-Consuegra Claudia , Gómez-Almería Marta , Ruiz-Pino Francisco , Unciti Juan Diego , Gómez-Cañas María , Alcalde Juan , Morales Paula , Jagerovic Nadine , Rodríguez-Cueto Carmen , de Lago Eva , Muñoz Eduardo , Fernández-Ruiz Javier
Published: December 2021

Cannabinoids act as pleiotropic compounds exerting, among others, a broad-spectrum of neuroprotective effects. These effects have been investigated in the last years in different preclinical models of neurodegeneration, with the cannabinoid type-1 (CB1) and type-2 (CB2) receptors concentrating an important part of this research. However, the issue has also been extended to additional targets that are also active for cannabinoids, such as the orphan G-protein receptor 55 (GPR55). In the present study, we investigated the neuroprotective potential of VCE-006.1, a chromenopyrazole derivative with biased orthosteric and positive allosteric modulator activity at GPR55, in murine models of two neurodegenerative diseases. First, we proved that VCE-006.1 alone could induce ERK1/2 activation and calcium mobilization, as well as increase cAMP response but only in the presence of lysophosphatidyl inositol. Next, we investigated this compound administered chronically in two neurotoxin-based models of Parkinson’s disease (PD), as well as in some cell-based models. VCE-006.1 was active in reversing the motor defects caused by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) in the pole and the cylinder rearing tests, as well as the losses in tyrosine hydroxylase-containing neurons and the elevated glial reactivity detected in the substantia nigra. Similar cytoprotective effects were found in vitro in SH-SY5Y cells exposed to 6-OHDA. We also investigated VCE-006.1 in LPS-lesioned mice with similar beneficial effects, except against glial reactivity and associated inflammatory events, which remained unaltered, a fact confirmed in BV2 cells treated with LPS and VCE-006.1. We also analyzed GPR55 in these in vivo models with no changes in its gene expression, although GPR55 was down-regulated in BV2 cells treated with LPS, which may explain the lack of efficacy of VCE-006.1 in such an assay. Furthermore, we investigated VCE-006.1 in two genetic models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), mutant SOD1, or TDP-43 transgenic mice. Neither the neurological decline nor the deteriorated rotarod performance were prevented with this compound, and the same happened with the elevated microglial and astroglial reactivities, albeit modest spinal motor neuron preservation was achieved in both models. We also analyzed GPR55 in these in vivo models and found no changes in both TDP-43 transgenic and mSOD1 mice. Therefore, our findings support the view that targeting the GPR55 may afford neuroprotection in experimental PD, but not in ALS, thus stressing the specificities for the development of cannabinoid-based therapies in the different neurodegenerative disorders.
Innate Immunomodulatory Activity of Cedrol, a Component of Essential Oils Isolated from Juniperus Species
Authors: Özek Gulmira , Schepetkin Igor A. , Yermagambetova Moldir , Özek Temel , Kirpotina Liliya N. , Almerekova Shyryn S. , Abugalieva Saule I. , Khlebnikov Andrei I. , Quinn Mark T.
Published: December 2021

Little is known about the immunomodulatory activity of essential oils isolated from Juniperus species. Thus, we isolated essential oils from the cones and leaves of eight juniper species found in Montana and in Kazakhstan, including J. horizontalis, J. scopolorum, J. communis, J. seravschanica, J. sabina, J. pseudosabina, J. pseudosabina subsp. turkestanica, and J. sibirica. We report here the chemical composition and innate immunomodulatory activity of these essential oils. Compositional analysis of the 16 samples of Juniper essential oils revealed similarities and differences between our analyses and those previously reported for essential oils from this species. Our studies represent the first analysis of essential oils isolated from the cones of four of these Juniper species. Several essential oil samples contained high levels of cedrol, which was fairly unique to three Juniper species from Kazakhstan. We found that these essential oils and pure (+)-cedrol induced intracellular Ca2+ mobilization in human neutrophils. Furthermore, pretreatment of human neutrophils and N-formyl peptide receptor 1 and 2 (FPR1 and FPR2) transfected HL60 cells with these essential oils or (+)-cedrol inhibited agonist-induced Ca2+ mobilization, suggesting these responses were desensitized by this pretreatment. In support of this conclusion, pretreatment with essential oils from J. seravschanica cones (containing 16.8% cedrol) or pure (+)-cedrol inhibited human neutrophil chemotaxis to N-formyl peptide. Finally, reverse pharmacophore mapping predicted several potential kinase targets for cedrol. Thus, our studies have identified cedrol as a novel neutrophil agonist that can desensitize cells to subsequent stimulation by N-formyl peptide.
Single Diameter Modulation Effects on Ni Nanowire Array Magnetization Reversal
Authors: Arzuza Luis C. C. , Vega Victor , Prida Victor M. , Moura Karoline O. , Pirota Kleber R. , Béron Fanny
Published: December 2021

Geometrically modulated magnetic nanowires are a simple yet efficient strategy to modify the magnetic domain wall propagation since a simple diameter modulation can achieve its pinning during the nanowire magnetization reversal. However, in dense systems of parallel nanowires, the stray fields arising at the diameter interface can interfere with the domain wall propagation in the neighboring nanowires. Therefore, the magnetic behavior of diameter-modulated nanowire arrays can be quite complex and depending on both short and long-range interaction fields, as well as the nanowire geometric dimensions. We applied the first-order reversal curve (FORC) method to bi-segmented Ni nanowire arrays varying the wide segment (45–65 nm diameter, 2.5–10.0 μm length). The FORC results indicate a magnetic behavior modification depending on its length/diameter aspect ratio. The distributions either exhibit a strong extension along the coercivity axis or a main distribution finishing by a fork feature, whereas the extension greatly reduces in amplitude. With the help of micromagnetic simulations, we propose that a low aspect ratio stabilizes pinned domain walls at the diameter modulation during the magnetization reversal. In this case, long-range axial interaction fields nucleate a domain wall at the nanowire extremities, while short-range ones could induce a nucleation at the diameter interface. However, regardless of the wide segment aspect ratio, the magnetization reversal is governed by the local radial stray fields of the modulation near null magnetization. Our findings demonstrate the capacity of distinguishing between complex magnetic behaviors involving convoluted interaction fields.
Fabrication of Transparent and Conductive SWCNT/SiO2 Composite Thin-Film by Photo-Irradiation of Molecular Precursor Films
Authors: Ogawa Naoki , Nagai Hiroki , Kudoh Yukihiro , Onuma Takeyoshi , Murayama Taichi , Nojima Akinobu , Sato Mitsunobu
Published: December 2021

A single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT)-silica composite thin film on a quartz glass was formed by ultraviolet irradiation (20–40 °C) onto a spin-coated precursor film. With 7.4 mass% SWCNTs, the electrical resistivity reached 7.7 × 10−3 Ω·cm after UV-irradiation. The transmittance was >80% at 178–2600 nm, and 79%–73% at 220–352 nm. Heat treatment increased the transparency and pencil hardness, without affecting the low electrical resistivity. Raman spectroscopy and microscopic analyses revealed the excellent film morphology with good SWCNT dispersal. The low refractive index (1.49) and haze value (<1.5%) are invaluable for transparent windows for novel optoelectronic devices.
Dietary Calcium Intake and Fat Mass in Spanish Young Adults: The Role of Muscle Strength
Authors: Torres-Costoso Ana , Martínez-Vizcaíno Vicente , Fernández-Rodríguez Rubén , Sequí-Dominguez Irene , Reina-Gutiérrez Sara , Núñez de Arenas-Arroyo Sergio , Garrido-Miguel Miriam
Published: December 2021

Obesity is declared as a chronic multifaceted health problem, and young adults may be particularly vulnerable to weight gain. This study aims to identify the role of dietary calcium intake and the muscle strength index in handling excess of fat mass in young adults and to examine if the relationship between dietary calcium intake and fat mass percentage is mediated by muscle strength. A cross-sectional study including 355 Spanish college students (aged 21.05 ± 3.11) was performed during the 2017–2018 academic year. Pearson correlation coefficients were estimated to determine the relationship between dietary calcium intake, fat mass percentage, body mass index, muscle strength components, and total energy intake. ANCOVA models were used to analyze the differences in the muscle strength index by total dietary calcium intake categories, as well as the differences in % fat mass by total dietary calcium intake and muscle strength index categories, controlling for different sets of confounders. A mediator analysis was conducted to test if the relationship between dietary calcium intake and fat mass percentage was explained by muscle strength. Data on the fat mass percentage, dietary calcium intake, and muscle strength index as the sum of the standardized z-score of the standing long jump and z-score of handgrip/weight were collected. The muscle strength index was significantly better in young adults with higher dietary calcium intake. Moreover, the fat mass percentage was significantly lower in those with a higher dietary calcium intake and a better muscle strength index. Finally, the relationship between dietary calcium intake and fat mass percentage was fully mediated by muscle strength (z = −1.90; p < 0.05), explaining 33.33% of this relationship. This study suggests that both a major dietary calcium intake and muscle strength are associated with fat mass percentage. Moreover, muscle strength mediates the link between dietary calcium intake and fat mass percentage. Therefore, both high dietary calcium intake and exercise activities aimed at improving muscle strength levels may help to prevent the cardiometabolic risk associated with an excess of fat mass in young people.
Promising Antiviral Activity of Agrimonia pilosa Phytochemicals against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Supported with In Vivo Mice Study
Authors: Attallah Nashwah G. M. , El-Kadem Aya H. , Negm Walaa A. , Elekhnawy Engy , El-Masry Thanaa A. , Elmongy Elshaymaa I. , Altwaijry Najla , Alanazi Ashwag S. , Al-Hamoud Gadah Abdulaziz , Ragab Amany E.
Published: December 2021

The global emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has focused the entire world’s attention toward searching for a potential remedy for this disease. Thus, we investigated the antiviral activity of Agrimonia pilosa ethanol extract (APEE) against SARS-CoV-2 and it exhibited a potent antiviral activity with IC50 of 1.1 ± 0.03 µg/mL. Its mechanism of action was elucidated, and it exhibited a virucidal activity and an inhibition of viral adsorption. Moreover, it presented an immunomodulatory activity as it decreased the upregulation of gene expression of COX-2, iNOS, IL-6, TNF-α, and NF-κB in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced peripheral blood mononuclear cells. A comprehensive analysis of the phytochemical fingerprint of APEE was conducted using LC-ESI-MS/MS technique for the first time. We detected 81 compounds and most of them belong to the flavonoid and coumarin classes. Interestingly, isoflavonoids, procyanidins, and anthocyanins were detected for the first time in A. pilosa. Moreover, the antioxidant activity was evidenced in DPPH (IC50 62.80 µg/mL) and ABTS (201.49 mg Trolox equivalents (TE)/mg) radical scavenging, FRAP (60.84 mg TE/mg), and ORAC (306.54 mg TE/g) assays. Furthermore, the protective effect of APEE was investigated in Lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice. Lung W/D ratio, serum IL-6, IL-18, IL-1β, HO-1, Caspase-1, caspase-3, TLR-4 expression, TAC, NO, MPO activity, and histopathological examination of lung tissues were assessed. APEE induced a marked downregulation in all inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis markers, and TLR-4 expression. In addition, it alleviated all histopathological abnormalities confirming the beneficial effects of APEE in ALI. Therefore, APEE could be a potential source for therapeutic compounds that could be investigated, in future preclinical and clinical trials, in the treatment of patients with COVID-19.
Silverleaf (Chondrostereum purpureum) Effects on Japanese Plum (Prunus salicina)
Authors: Grinbergs Daina , Chilian Javier , Hahn Carla , Reyes Marisol , Isla Mariana , France Andrés , Børve Jorunn
Published: December 2021

Silverleaf is an important fungal trunk disease of fruit crops, such as Japanese plum (Prunus salicina). It is known that infection by Chondrostereum purpureum results in discolored wood, “silvered” foliage, and tree decline. However, effects on fruit yield and quality have not been assessed. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine C. purpureum pathogenicity on P. salicina and the effects on physiology, fruit yield, and quality, in Chile, in 2019 and 2020. Wood samples from affected plum trees were collected in the Chilean plum productive area. Fungi were isolated by plating wood sections from the necrosis margin on culture media. Morphological and molecular characteristics of the isolates corresponded to C. purpureum (98%). Representative isolates were inoculated from healthy plum plants and after 65-d incubation, wood necrotic lesions and silver leaves were visible. Fungi were reisolated, fulfilling Koch’s postulates. To determine Silverleaf effects, xylem water potential and fruit yield and quality were measured in healthy and Silverleaf-diseased plum trees ‘Angeleno’. Water potential was altered in diseased trees, and fruit yield was reduced by 51% (2019) and by 41% (2020) compared to fruit from healthy trees. Moreover, cover-colour, equatorial-diameter, and weight were reduced, and fruit were softer, failing to meet the criteria to be properly commercialized and exported to demanding markets.
Pre-Symptomatic Detection of Viral Infection in Tobacco Leaves Using PAM Fluorometry
Authors: Grishina Alyona , Sherstneva Oksana , Grinberg Marina , Zdobnova Tatiana , Ageyeva Maria , Khlopkov Andrey , Sukhov Vladimir , Brilkina Anna , Vodeneev Vladimir
Published: December 2021

Chlorophyll fluorescence imaging was used to study potato virus X (PVX) infection of Nicotiana benthamiana. Infection-induced changes in chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (quantum yield of photosystem II photochemistry (ΦPSII) and non-photochemical fluorescence quenching (NPQ)) in the non-inoculated leaf were recorded and compared with the spatial distribution of the virus detected by the fluorescence of GFP associated with the virus. We determined infection-related changes at different points of the light-induced chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics and at different days after inoculation. A slight change in the light-adapted steady-state values of ΦPSII and NPQ was observed in the infected area of the non-inoculated leaf. In contrast to the steady-state parameters, the dynamics of ΦPSII and NPQ caused by the dark–light transition in healthy and infected areas differed significantly starting from the second day after the detection of the virus in a non-inoculated leaf. The coefficients of correlation between chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and virus localization were 0.67 for ΦPSII and 0.76 for NPQ. In general, the results demonstrate the possibility of reliable pre-symptomatic detection of the spread of a viral infection using chlorophyll fluorescence imaging.