bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic Features of Increased Gut Permeability, Inflammation, and Altered Energy Metabolism Distinguish Agricultural Workers at Risk for Mesoamerican Nephropathy
Authors: Raines Nathan , Leone Dominick , O’Callaghan-Gordo Cristina , Ramirez-Rubio Oriana , Amador Juan , Lopez Pilarte Damaris , Delgado Iris , Leibler Jessica , Embade Nieves , Gil-Redondo Rubén , Bruzzone Chiara , Bizkarguenaga Maider , Scammell Madeleine , Parikh Samir , Millet Oscar , Brooks Daniel , Friedman David
Published: February 2023

Mesoamerican nephropathy (MeN) is a form of chronic kidney disease found predominantly in young men in Mesoamerica. Strenuous agricultural labor is a consistent risk factor for MeN, but the pathophysiologic mechanism leading to disease is poorly understood. We compared the urine metabolome among men in Nicaragua engaged in sugarcane harvest and seed cutting (n = 117), a group at high risk for MeN, against three referents: Nicaraguans working less strenuous jobs at the same sugarcane plantations (n = 78); Nicaraguans performing non-agricultural work (n = 102); and agricultural workers in Spain (n = 78). Using proton nuclear magnetic resonance, we identified 136 metabolites among participants. Our non-hypothesis-based approach identified distinguishing urine metabolic features in the high-risk group, revealing increased levels of hippurate and other gut-derived metabolites and decreased metabolites related to central energy metabolism when compared to referent groups. Our complementary hypothesis-based approach, focused on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) related metabolites, and revealed a higher kynurenate/tryptophan ratio in the high-risk group (p = 0.001), consistent with a heightened inflammatory state. Workers in high-risk occupations are distinguishable by urinary metabolic features that suggest increased gut permeability, inflammation, and altered energy metabolism. Further study is needed to explore the pathophysiologic implications of these findings.
Prediction of Single-Event Effects in FDSOI Devices Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Zhao Rong , Wang Shulong , Du Shougang , Pan Jinbin , Ma Lan , Chen Shupeng , Liu Hongxia , Chen Yilei
Published: February 2023

Single-event effects (SEE) are an important index of radiation resistance for fully depleted silicon on insulator (FDSOI) devices. The research into traditional FDSOI devices is based on simulation software, which is time consuming, requires a large amount of calculation, and has complex operations. In this paper, a prediction method for the SEE of FDSOI devices based on deep learning is proposed. The characterization parameters of SEE can be obtained quickly and accurately by inputting different particle incident conditions. The goodness of fit of the network curve for predicting drain transient current pulses can reach 0.996, and the accuracy of predicting the peak value of drain transient current and total collected charge can reach 94.00% and 96.95%, respectively. Compared with TCAD Sentaurus software, the simulation speed is increased by 5.10 × 102 and 1.38 × 103 times, respectively. This method can significantly reduce the computational cost, improve the simulation speed, and provide a new feasible method for the study of the single-event effect in FDSOI devices.
3D-Printed Microfluidic Chip for Real-Time Glucose Monitoring in Liquid Analytes
Authors: Podunavac Ivana , Djocos Miroslav , Vejin Marija , Birgermajer Slobodan , Pavlovic Zoran , Kojic Sanja , Petrovic Bojan , Radonic Vasa
Published: February 2023

The connection of macrosystems with microsystems for in-line measurements is important in different biotechnological processes as it enables precise and accurate monitoring of process parameters at a small scale, which can provide valuable insights into the process, and ultimately lead to improved process control and optimization. Additionally, it allows continuous monitoring without the need for manual sampling and analysis, leading to more efficient and cost-effective production. In this paper, a 3D printed microfluidic (MF) chip for glucose (Glc) sensing in a liquid analyte is proposed. The chip made in Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) contains integrated serpentine-based micromixers realized via stereolithography with a slot for USB-like integration of commercial DropSens electrodes. After adjusting the sample’s pH in the first micromixer, small volumes of the sample and enzyme are mixed in the second micromixer and lead to a sensing chamber where the Glc concentration is measured via chronoamperometry. The sensing potential was examined for Glc concentrations in acetate buffer in the range of 0.1–100 mg/mL and afterward tested for Glc sensing in a cell culturing medium. The proposed chip showed great potential for connection with macrosystems, such as bioreactors, for direct in-line monitoring of a quality parameter in a liquid sample.
Effects on Pseudomonas plecoglossicida 2,4-D and Humic Substances on the Growth, Pigment Indices and Concentration of Hormones in Wheat Seedlings Grown under Water Deficit
Authors: Feoktistova Arina , Timergalin Maxim , Chetverikov Sergey , Nazarov Aleksey , Kudoyarova Guzel
Published: February 2023

The search for ways to increase plant productivity in drought conditions is of fundamental importance, since soil moisture deficiency is widespread and leads to critical crop losses. The aim of this study was to identify the effects of plant growth-promoting bacteria and humic substances on the growth, chlorophyll, flavonoids, nitrogen balance index, and concentration of cytokinins and abscisic acids in wheat plants grown in the laboratory under conditions of water deficit. An increase in the accumulation of plant mass was shown during the treatment of wheat plants with Pseudomonas plecoglossicida 2,4-D and humic substances in these conditions. It has been shown that stimulating plant growth is associated with increased root growth, which leads to an increase in the nitrogen balance index, chlorophyll, and flavonoid concentrations in treated plants. The detected increase in the concentration of chlorophyll in plants treated with P. plecoglossicida 2,4-D correlated with a decrease in the concentration of abscisic acid in plant shoots and, in plants treated with humates, with an increase in the concentration of cytokinins in shoots. The higher efficiency of treating plants with a combination of bacteria and humic substances than with any of them individually may be associated with the additive effect of these treatments on the hormonal balance.
Adaptation of Proteome and Metabolism in Different Haplotypes of Rhodosporidium toruloides during Cu(I) and Cu(II) Stress
Authors: Cavelius Philipp , Engelhart-Straub Selina , Biewald Alexander , Haack Martina , Awad Dania , Brueck Thomas , Mehlmer Norbert
Published: February 2023

Rhodosporidium toruloides is a carotenogenic, oleogenic yeast that is able to grow in diverse environments. In this study, the proteomic and metabolic responses to copper stress in the two haplotypes IFO0559 and IFO0880 were assessed. 0.5 mM Cu(I) extended the lag phase of both strains significantly, while only a small effect was observed for Cu(II) treatment. Other carotenogenic yeasts such as Rhodotorula mucilaginosa are known to accumulate high amounts of carotenoids as a response to oxidative stress, posed by excess copper ion activity. However, no significant increase in carotenoid accumulation for both haplotypes of R. toruloides after 144 h of 0.5 mM Cu(I) or Cu(II) stress was observed. Yet, an increase in lipid production was detected, when exposed to Cu(II), additionally, proteins related to fatty acid biosynthesis were detected in increased amounts under stress conditions. Proteomic analysis revealed that besides the activation of the enzymatic oxidative stress response, excess copper affected iron–sulfur and zinc-containing proteins and caused proteomic adaptation indicative of copper ion accumulation in the vacuole, mitochondria, and Golgi apparatus.
The Unconventional Peridotite-Related Mg-Fe-B Skarn of the El Robledal, SE Spain
Authors: González-Pérez Igor , Fanlo Isabel , Ares Gonzalo , Gervilla Fernando , González-Jiménez José María , Acosta-Vigil Antonio , Arranz Enrique
Published: February 2023

The El Robledal deposit is a Mg-Fe-B skarn hosted in a dismembered block from the footwall contact of the Ronda orogenic peridotites in the westernmost part of the Betic Cordillera. The skarn is subdivided into two different zones according to the dominant ore mineral assemblage: (1) the ludwigite–magnetite zone, hosted in a completely mineralized body along with metasomatic forsterite, and (2) the magnetite–szaibelyite zone hosted in dolomitic marbles. In the ludwigite–magnetite zone, the massive mineralization comprises ludwigite (Mg2Fe3+(BO3)O2), Mg-rich magnetite, and magnetite, with minor amounts of kotoite (Mg3(BO3)2), szaibelyite (MgBO2(OH)), accessory schoenfliesite (MgSn4+(OH)6), and pentlandite. The ratio of ludwigite–magnetite decreases downwards in the stratigraphy of this zone. In contrast, the mineralization in the magnetite–szaibelyite zone is mainly composed of irregular and folded magnetite pods and bands with pull-apart fractures, locally associated with a brucite-, szaibelyite-, and serpentine-rich groundmass. The set of inclusions identified within these ore minerals, using a combination of a focused ion beam (FIB) and high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), supports the proposed evolution of the system and reactions of the mineral formation of the skarn. The analysis of the microstructures of the ores by means of electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) allowed for the determination that the ores experienced ductile deformation followed by variable degrees of recrystallization and annealing. We propose a new classification of the deposit as well as a plausible genetic model in a deposit where the heat source and the ore-fluid source are decoupled.
Estimation of Probabilistic Environmental Risk of Heavy Metal(loid)s in Resuspended Megacity Street Dust with Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Wang Zhenze , Lu Xinwei , Yang Yufan , Yu Bo , Lei Kai , Pan Huiyun , Fan Peng , Zuo Ling
Published: February 2023

To improve the ecological environment quality of industrial cities and protect the health of residents, we determined the priority control factors of heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) pollution and risk in the resuspended street dust (RSD) of Shijiazhuang, an emblematic heavy-industrial city in North China, according to the probabilistic risk assessment method. The results showed that the HMs studied in Shijiazhuang RSD exhibited different pollution levels, that is, Hg showed moderate-to-severe pollution and above; Zn showed moderate-and-above pollution; Co, Cu and Pb showed non-pollution to moderate pollution; while As, Cr, Mn and Ni showed no pollution. The overall contamination of HMs in the RSD presented moderate-to-above contamination levels in >94% of samples. Mercury exhibited considerable-to-very-high ecological risk. The synthetic ecological risks of the HMs were considerable-to-above. The comprehensive pollution and synthetic ecological risk of HMs in Shijiazhuang RSD were mainly caused by Hg. The carcinogenic risk of HMs in RSD to local inhabitants and their non-carcinogenic risk to children should not be ignored. Coal-related industrial sources are a priority source to control. Hg and As are priority HMs to control. We suggest that local governments should strengthen the management of coal-related industrial sources and As and Hg emissions.
Imidazolyl Ethanamide Pentandioic Acid (IEPA) as Potential Radical Scavenger during Tumor Therapy in Human Hematopoietic Stem Cells
Authors: Pfau Lucas C. , Glasow Annegret , Seidel Clemens , Patties Ina
Published: February 2023

Radiochemotherapy-associated leuco- or thrombocytopenia is a common complication, e.g., in head and neck cancer (HNSCC) and glioblastoma (GBM) patients, often compromising treatments and outcomes. Currently, no sufficient prophylaxis for hematological toxicities is available. The antiviral compound imidazolyl ethanamide pentandioic acid (IEPA) has been shown to induce maturation and differentiation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs), resulting in reduced chemotherapy-associated cytopenia. In order for it to be a potential prophylaxis for radiochemotherapy-related hematologic toxicity in cancer patients, the tumor-protective effects of IEPA should be precluded. In this study, we investigated the combinatorial effects of IEPA with radio- and/or chemotherapy in human HNSCC and GBM tumor cell lines and HSPCs. Treatment with IEPA was followed by irradiation (IR) or chemotherapy (ChT; cisplatin, CIS; lomustine, CCNU; temozolomide, TMZ). Metabolic activity, apoptosis, proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) induction, long-term survival, differentiation capacity, cytokine release, and DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) were measured. In tumor cells, IEPA dose-dependently diminished IR-induced ROS induction but did not affect the IR-induced changes in metabolic activity, proliferation, apoptosis, or cytokine release. In addition, IEPA showed no protective effect on the long-term survival of tumor cells after radio- or chemotherapy. In HSPCs, IEPA alone slightly enhanced CFU-GEMM and CFU-GM colony counts (2/2 donors). The IR- or ChT-induced decline of early progenitors could not be reversed by IEPA. Our data indicate that IEPA is a potential candidate for the prevention of hematologic toxicity in cancer treatment without affecting therapeutic benefits.
Recent Developments in Chemical Derivatization of Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC): Pre-Treatments, Functionalization, and Applications
Authors: Lupidi Gabriele , Pastore Genny , Marcantoni Enrico , Gabrielli Serena
Published: February 2023

Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) is an isolated, colloidal crystalline portion of cellulose fibers, and it is a valuable alternative to non-renewable fossil-based materials. It is used for a large plethora of different fields, such as composites, food applications, pharmaceutical and medical developments, and cosmetic and material industries. The interest of MCC has also been driven by its economic value. In the last decade, particular attention has been driven to the functionalization of its hydroxyl groups to expand the field of applications of such biopolymer. Herein, we report and describe several pre-treatment methods that have been developed to increase the accessibility of MCC by breaking its dense structure allowing further functionalization. This review also collects the results that have appeared in the literature during the last two decades on the utilization of functionalized MCC as adsorbents (dyes, heavy metals, and carbon dioxide), flame retardants, reinforcing agents, energetic materials, such as azide- and azidodeoxy-modified, and nitrate-based cellulose and biomedical applications.
Organo-Montmorillonite Modified by Gemini Quaternary Ammonium Surfactants with Different Counterions for Adsorption toward Phenol
Authors: Wei Ran , Mo Yuanhua , Fu Duojiao , Liu Hongqin , Xu Baocai
Published: February 2023

The discharge of industrial phenol pollutants causes great harm to the natural environment and human health. In this study, phenol removal from water was studied via the adsorption of Na–montmorillonite (Na–Mt) modified by a series of Gemini quaternary ammonium surfactants with different counterions [(C11H23CONH(CH2)2N+ (CH3)2(CH2)2 N+(CH3)2 (CH2)2NHCOC11H23·2Y−, Y = CH3CO3−, C6H5COO− and Br−, 12–2–12·2Y−]. The results of the phenol adsorption indicated that MMt–12–2–12·2Br−, MMt–12–2–12·2CH3CO3− and MMt–12–2–12·2C6H5COO− reached the optimum adsorption capacity, which was 115.110 mg/g, 100.834 mg/g and 99.985 mg/g, respectively, under the conditions of the saturated intercalation concentration at 2.0 times that of the cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the original Na–Mt, 0.04 g of adsorbent and a pH = 10. The adsorption kinetics of all adsorption processes were in good agreement with the pseudo-second-order kinetics model, and the adsorption isotherm was better modeled by Freundlich isotherm. Thermodynamic parameters revealed that the adsorption of phenol was a physical, spontaneous and exothermic process. The results also showed that the counterions of the surfactant had a certain influence on the adsorption performance of MMt for phenol, especially the rigid structure, hydrophobicity, and hydration of the counterions.
Caseins: Versatility of Their Micellar Organization in Relation to the Functional and Nutritional Properties of Milk
Authors: Runthala Ashish , Mbye Mustapha , Ayyash Mutamed , Xu Yajun , Kamal-Eldin Afaf
Published: February 2023

The milk of mammals is a complex fluid mixture of various proteins, minerals, lipids, and other micronutrients that play a critical role in providing nutrition and immunity to newborns. Casein proteins together with calcium phosphate form large colloidal particles, called casein micelles. Caseins and their micelles have received great scientific interest, but their versatility and role in the functional and nutritional properties of milk from different animal species are not fully understood. Caseins belong to a class of proteins that exhibit open and flexible conformations. Here, we discuss the key features that maintain the structures of the protein sequences in four selected animal species: cow, camel, human, and African elephant. The primary sequences of these proteins and their posttranslational modifications (phosphorylation and glycosylation) that determine their secondary structures have distinctively evolved in these different animal species, leading to differences in their structural, functional, and nutritional properties. The variability in the structures of milk caseins influence the properties of their dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, as well as their digestibility and allergic properties. Such differences are beneficial to the development of different functionally improved casein molecules with variable biological and industrial utilities.
Fabrication, Facilitating Gas Permeability, and Molecular Simulations of Porous Hypercrosslinked Polymers Embedding 6FDA-Based Polyimide Mixed-Matrix Membranes
Authors: Song Chaohua , Peng Longfei , Li Yinhui , Du Yawei , Chen Zan , Li Weixin , Duan Cuijia , Yuan Biao , Yan Shuo , Kawi Sibudjing
Published: February 2023

Novel polymers applied in economic membrane technologies are a perennial hot topic in the fields of natural gas purification and O2 enrichment. Herein, novel hypercrosslinked polymers (HCPs) incorporating 6FDA-based polyimide (PI) MMMs were prepared via a casting method for enhancing transport of different gases (CO2, CH4, O2, and N2). Intact HCPs/PI MMMs could be obtained due to good compatibility between the HCPs and PI. Pure gas permeation experiments showed that compared with pure PI film, the addition of HCPs effectively promotes gas transport, increases gas permeability, and maintains ideal selectivity. The permeabilities of HCPs/PI MMMs toward CO2 and O2 were as high as 105.85 Barrer and 24.03 Barrer, respectively, and the ideal selectivities of CO2/CH4 and O2/N2 were 15.67 and 3.00, respectively. Molecular simulations further verified that adding HCPs was beneficial to gas transport. Thus, HCPs have potential utility in fabrication of MMMs for facilitating gas transport in the fields of natural gas purification and O2 enrichment.
Control of the Organization of 4,4′-bis(carbazole)-1,1′-biphenyl (CBP) Molecular Materials through Siloxane Functionalization
Authors: Shaya Janah , Ribierre Jean-Charles , Correia Gabriel , Dappe Yannick J. , Mathevet Fabrice , Mager Loïc , Heinrich Benoît , Méry Stéphane
Published: February 2023

We show that through the introduction of short dimethylsiloxane chains, it was possible to suppress the crystalline state of CBP in favor of various types of organization, transitioning from a soft crystal to a fluid liquid crystal mesophase, then to a liquid state. Characterized by X-ray scattering, all organizations reveal a similar layered configuration in which layers of edge-on lying CBP cores alternate with siloxane. The difference between all CBP organizations essentially lay on the regularity of the molecular packing that modulates the interactions of neighboring conjugated cores. As a result, the materials show quite different thin film absorption and emission properties, which could be correlated to the features of the chemical architectures and the molecular organizations.
Laser-Induced Graphene Microsupercapacitors: Structure, Quality, and Performance
Authors: Velasco Andres , Ryu Yu Kyoung , Hamada Assia , de Andrés Alicia , Calle Fernando , Martinez Javier
Published: February 2023

Laser-induced graphene (LIG) is a graphenic material synthesized from a polymeric substrate through point-by-point laser pyrolysis. It is a fast and cost-effective technique, and it is ideal for flexible electronics and energy storage devices, such as supercapacitors. However, the miniaturization of the thicknesses of the devices, which is important for these applications, has still not been fully explored. Therefore, this work presents an optimized set of laser conditions to fabricate high-quality LIG microsupercapacitors (MSC) from 60 µm thick polyimide substrates. This is achieved by correlating their structural morphology, material quality, and electrochemical performance. The fabricated devices show a high capacitance of 22.2 mF/cm2 at 0.05 mA/cm2, as well as energy and power densities comparable to those of similar devices that are hybridized with pseudocapacitive elements. The performed structural characterization confirms that the LIG material is composed of high-quality multilayer graphene nanoflakes with good structural continuity and an optimal porosity.
A Hierarchically Structured Graphene/Ag Nanowires Paper as Thermal Interface Material
Authors: Lv Le , Ying Junfeng , Chen Lu , Tao Peidi , Sun Liwen , Yang Ke , Fu Li , Yu Jinhong , Yan Qingwei , Dai Wen , Jiang Nan , Lin Cheng-Te
Published: February 2023

With the increase in heat power density in modern integrating electronics, thermal interface materials (TIM) that can efficiently fill the gaps between the heat source and heat sinks and enhance heat dissipation are urgently needed owing to their high thermal conductivity and excellent mechanical durability. Among all the emerged TIMs, graphene-based TIMs have attracted increasing attention because of the ultrahigh intrinsic thermal conductivity of graphene nanosheets. Despite extensive efforts, developing high-performance graphene-based papers with high through-plane thermal conductivity remains challenging despite their high in-plane thermal conductivity. In this study, a novel strategy for enhancing the through-plane thermal conductivity of graphene papers by in situ depositing AgNWs on graphene sheets (IGAP) was proposed, which could boost the through-plane thermal conductivity of the graphene paper up to 7.48 W m−1 K−1 under packaging conditions. In the TIM performance test under actual and simulated operating conditions, our IGAP exhibits strongly enhanced heat dissipation performance compared to the commercial thermal pads. We envision that our IGAP as a TIM has great potential for boosting the development of next-generation integrating circuit electronics.
Oxygen Vacancy Mediated Band-Gap Engineering via B-Doping for Enhancing Z-Scheme A-TiO2/R-TiO2 Heterojunction Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Liu Changqing , Xu Chenggang , Wang Wanting , Chen Long , Li Xu , Wu Yuanting
Published: February 2023

Fabrication of Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts is an ideal strategy for solving environmental problems by providing inexhaustible solar energy. A direct Z-scheme anatase TiO2/rutile TiO2 heterojunction photocatalyst was prepared using a facile B-doping strategy. The band structure and oxygen-vacancy content can be successfully tailored by controlling the amount of B-dopant. The photocatalytic performance was enhanced via the Z-scheme transfer path formed between the B doped anatase-TiO2 and rutile-TiO2, optimized band structure with markedly positively shifted band potentials, and the synergistically-mediated oxygen vacancy contents. Moreover, the optimization study indicated that 10% B-doping with the R-TiO2 to A-TiO2 weight ratio of 0.04 could achieve the highest photocatalytic performance. This work may provide an effective approach to synthesize nonmetal-doped semiconductor photocatalysts with tunable-energy structures and promote the efficiency of charge separation.
Iron-Doped Monoclinic Strontium Iridate as a Highly Efficient Oxygen Evolution Electrocatalyst in Acidic Media
Authors: Li Mengjie , Ding Jiabao , Wu Tianli , Zhang Weifeng
Published: February 2023

Ir-based perovskite oxides are efficient electrocatalysts for anodic oxygen evolution. This work presents a systematic study of the doping effects of Fe on the OER activity of monoclinic SrIrO3 to reduce the consumption of Ir. The monoclinic structure of SrIrO3 was retained when the Fe/Ir ratio was less than 0.1/0.9. Upon further increases in the Fe/Ir ratio, the structure of SrIrO3 changed from a 6H to 3C phase. The SrFe0.1Ir0.9O3 had the highest activity among the investigated catalysts with the lowest overpotential of 238 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in 0.1 M HClO4 solution, which could be attributed to the oxygen vacancies induced by the Fe dopant and the IrOx formed upon the dissolution of Sr and Fe. The formation of oxygen vacancies and uncoordinated sites at the molecular level may be responsible for the improved performance. This work explored the effect of Fe dopants in boosting the OER activity of SrIrO3, thus providing a detailed reference to tune perovskite-based electrocatalyst by Fe for other applications.
The Effect of Post Deposition Treatment on Properties of ALD Al-Doped ZnO Films
Authors: Petrova Dimitrina , Napoleonov Blagovest , Minh Chau Nguyen Hong , Marinova Vera , Lan Yu-Pin , Avramova Ivalina , Petrov Stefan , Blagoev Blagoy , Videva Vladimira , Strijkova Velichka , Kostadinov Ivan , Lin Shiuan-Huei , Dimitrov Dimitre
Published: February 2023

In this paper, aluminum-doped zinc oxide (ZnO:Al or AZO) thin films are grown using atomic layer deposition (ALD) and the influence of postdeposition UV–ozone and thermal annealing treatments on the films’ properties are investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed a polycrystalline wurtzite structure with a preferable (100) orientation. The crystal size increase after the thermal annealing is observed while UV–ozone exposure led to no significant change in crystallinity. The results of the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses show that a higher amount of oxygen vacancies exists in the ZnO:Al after UV–ozone treatment, and that the ZnO:Al, after annealing, has a lower amount of oxygen vacancies. Important and practical applications of ZnO:Al (such as transparent conductive oxide layer) were found, and its electrical and optical properties demonstrate high tunability after postdeposition treatment, particularly after UV–Ozone exposure, offers a noninvasive and easy way to lower the sheet resistance values. At the same time, UV–Ozone treatment did not cause any significant changes to the polycrystalline structure, surface morphology, or optical properties of the AZO films.
Preparation and Photovoltaic Evaluation of CuO@Zn(Al)O-Mixed Metal Oxides for Dye Sensitized Solar Cell
Authors: Bashir Mohamed Bashir Ali , Rajpar Altaf Hussain , Salih Ethar Yahya , Ahmed Emad M.
Published: February 2023

In this manuscript, a series of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were fabricated as a function of post-processing temperature based on mesoporous CuO@Zn(Al)O-mixed metal oxides (MMO) in conjunction with dye N719 as the main light absorber; the proposed CuO@Zn(Al)O geometry was, in turn, attained using Zn/Al-layered double hydroxide (LDH) as a precursor via combination of co-precipitation and hydrothermal techniques. In particular, the dye loading amount onto the deposited mesoporous materials was anticipated via regression equation-based UV-Vis technique analysis, which evidently demonstrated a robust correlation along with the fabricated DSSCs power conversion efficiency. In detail, of the DSSCs assembled, CuO@MMO-550 exhibited short-circuit current (JSC) and open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 3.42 (mA/cm2) and 0.67 (V) which result in significant fill factor and power conversion efficiency of 0.55% and 1.24%, respectively. This could mainly be due to the relatively high surface area of 51.27 (m2/g) which in turn validates considerable dye loading amount of 0.246 (mM/cm−2).
1H-NMR Relaxation of Ferrite Core-Shell Nanoparticles: Evaluation of the Coating Effect
Authors: Brero Francesca , Arosio Paolo , Albino Martin , Cicolari Davide , Porru Margherita , Basini Martina , Mariani Manuel , Innocenti Claudia , Sangregorio Claudio , Orsini Francesco , Lascialfari Alessandro
Published: February 2023

We investigated the effect of different organic coatings on the 1H-NMR relaxation properties of ultra-small iron-oxide-based magnetic nanoparticles. The first set of nanoparticles, with a magnetic core diameter ds1 = 4.4 ± 0.7 nm, was coated with polyacrylic acid (PAA) and dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), while the second set, ds2 = 8.9 ± 0.9 nm, was coated with aminopropylphosphonic acid (APPA) and DMSA. At fixed core diameters but different coatings, magnetization measurements revealed a similar behavior as a function of temperature and field. On the other hand, the 1H-NMR longitudinal r1 nuclear relaxivity in the frequency range ν = 10 kHz ÷ 300 MHz displayed, for the smallest particles (diameter ds1), an intensity and a frequency behavior dependent on the kind of coating, thus indicating different electronic spin dynamics. Conversely, no differences were found in the r1 relaxivity of the biggest particles (ds2) when the coating was changed. It is concluded that, when the surface to volume ratio, i.e., the surface to bulk spins ratio, increases (smallest nanoparticles), the spin dynamics change significantly, possibly due to the contribution of surface spin dynamics/topology.
Facile Synthesis and X-ray Attenuation Properties of Ultrasmall Platinum Nanoparticles Grafted with Three Types of Hydrophilic Polymers
Authors: Saidi Abdullah Khamis Ali Al , Ghazanfari Adibehalsadat , Liu Shuwen , Tegafaw Tirusew , Ahmad Mohammad Yaseen , Zhao Dejun , Liu Ying , Yang So Hyeon , Hwang Dong Wook , Yang Ji-ung , Park Ji Ae , Jung Jae Chang , Nam Sung-Wook , Chang Yongmin , Lee Gang Ho
Published: February 2023

Ultrasmall platinum nanoparticles (Pt-NPs) grafted with three types of hydrophilic and biocompatible polymers, i.e., poly(acrylic acid), poly(acrylic acid-co-maleic acid), and poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic acid) were synthesized using a one-pot polyol method. Their physicochemical and X-ray attenuation properties were characterized. All polymer-coated Pt-NPs had an average particle diameter (davg) of 2.0 nm. Polymers grafted onto Pt-NP surfaces exhibited excellent colloidal stability (i.e., no precipitation after synthesis for >1.5 years) and low cellular toxicity. The X-ray attenuation power of the polymer-coated Pt-NPs in aqueous media was stronger than that of the commercial iodine contrast agent Ultravist at the same atomic concentration and considerably stronger at the same number density, confirming their potential as computed tomography contrast agents.
Multifunctional Edible Oil-Impregnated Nanoporous Oxide Layer on AISI 304 Stainless Steel
Authors: Bae Kichang , Kang Minju , Shin Yeji , Choi Eunyoung , Kim Young-Mog , Lee Junghoon
Published: February 2023

Slippery liquid-infused porous surface (SLIPS) realized on commercial materials provides various functionalities, such as corrosion resistance, condensation heat transfer, anti-fouling, de/anti-icing, and self-cleaning. In particular, perfluorinated lubricants infused in fluorocarbon-coated porous structures have showed exceptional performances with durability; however, they caused several issues in safety, due to their difficulty in degradation and bio-accumulation. Here, we introduce a new approach to create the multifunctional lubricant-impregnated surface with edible oils and fatty acid, which are also safe to human body and degradable in nature. The edible oil-impregnated anodized nanoporous stainless steel surface shows a significantly low contact angle hysteresis and sliding angle, which is similar with general surface of fluorocarbon lubricant-infused systems. The edible oil impregnated in the hydrophobic nanoporous oxide surface also inhibits the direct contact of external aqueous solution to a solid surface structure. Due to such de-wetting property caused by a lubricating effect of edible oils, the edible oil-impregnated stainless steel surface shows enhanced corrosion resistance, anti-biofouling and condensation heat transfer with reduced ice adhesion.
Discovery and Genome Characterization of a Closterovirus from Wheat Plants with Yellowing Leaf Symptoms in Japan
Authors: Kondo Hideki , Sugahara Hitomi , Fujita Miki , Hyodo Kiwamu , Andika Ida Bagus , Hisano Hiroshi , Suzuki Nobuhiro
Published: February 2023

Many aphid-borne viruses are important pathogens that affect wheat crops worldwide. An aphid-transmitted closterovirus named wheat yellow leaf virus (WYLV) was found to have infected wheat plants in Japan in the 1970s; however, since then, its viral genome sequence and occurrence in the field have not been investigated. We observed yellowing leaves in the 2018/2019 winter wheat-growing season in an experimental field in Japan where WYLV was detected five decades ago. A virome analysis of those yellow leaf samples lead to the discovery of a closterovirus together with a luteovirus (barley yellow dwarf virus PAV variant IIIa). The complete genomic sequence of this closterovirus, named wheat closterovirus 1 isolate WL19a (WhCV1-WL19a), consisted of 15,452 nucleotides harboring nine open reading frames. Additionally, we identified another WhCV1 isolate, WL20, in a wheat sample from the winter wheat-growing season of 2019/2020. A transmission test indicated that WhCV1-WL20 was able to form typical filamentous particles and transmissible by oat bird-cherry aphid (Rhopalosiphum pad). Sequence and phylogenetic analyses showed that WhCV1 was distantly related to members of the genus Closterovirus (family Closteroviridae), suggesting that the virus represents a novel species in the genus. Furthermore, the characterization of WhCV1-WL19a-derived small RNAs using high-throughput sequencing revealed highly abundant 22-nt-class small RNAs potentially derived from the 3′-terminal end of the WhCV1 negative-strand genomic RNA, indicating that this terminal end of the WhCV1 genome is likely particularly targeted for the synthesis of viral small RNAs in wheat plants. Our results provide further knowledge on closterovirus diversity and pathogenicity and suggest that the impact of WhCV1 on wheat production warrants further investigations.
Orthopoxvirus Zoonoses—Do We Still Remember and Are Ready to Fight?
Authors: Gieryńska Małgorzata , Szulc-Dąbrowska Lidia , Struzik Justyna , Gregorczyk-Zboroch Karolina Paulina , Mielcarska Matylda Barbara , Toka Felix Ngosa , Schollenberger Ada , Biernacka Zuzanna
Published: February 2023

The eradication of smallpox was an enormous achievement due to the global vaccination program launched by World Health Organization. The cessation of the vaccination program led to steadily declining herd immunity against smallpox, causing a health emergency of global concern. The smallpox vaccines induced strong, humoral, and cell-mediated immune responses, protecting for decades after immunization, not only against smallpox but also against other zoonotic orthopoxviruses that now represent a significant threat to public health. Here we review the major aspects regarding orthopoxviruses’ zoonotic infections, factors responsible for viral transmissions, as well as the emerging problem of the increased number of monkeypox cases recently reported. The development of prophylactic measures against poxvirus infections, especially the current threat caused by the monkeypox virus, requires a profound understanding of poxvirus immunobiology. The utilization of animal and cell line models has provided good insight into host antiviral defenses as well as orthopoxvirus evasion mechanisms. To survive within a host, orthopoxviruses encode a large number of proteins that subvert inflammatory and immune pathways. The circumvention of viral evasion strategies and the enhancement of major host defenses are key in designing novel, safer vaccines, and should become the targets of antiviral therapies in treating poxvirus infections.
Oral Administration as a Potential Alternative for the Delivery of Small Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Donoso-Meneses Darío , Figueroa-Valdés Aliosha I. , Khoury Maroun , Alcayaga-Miranda Francisca
Published: February 2023

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have burst into biomedicine as a natural therapeutic alternative for different diseases. Considered nanocarriers of biological origin, various studies have demonstrated the feasibility of their systemic administration, even with repeated doses. However, despite being the preferred route of physicians and patients, little is known about the clinical use of sEVs in oral administration. Different reports show that sEVs can resist the degradative conditions of the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration, accumulating regionally in the intestine, where they are absorbed for systemic biodistribution. Notably, observations demonstrate the efficacy of using sEVs as a nanocarrier system for a therapeutic payload to obtain a desired biological (therapeutic) effect. From another perspective, the information to date indicates that food-derived vesicles (FDVs) could be considered future nutraceutical agents since they contain or even overexpress different nutritional compounds of the foods from which they are derived, with potential effects on human health. In this review, we present and critically analyze the current information on the pharmacokinetics and safety profile of sEVs when administered orally. We also address the molecular and cellular mechanisms that promote intestinal absorption and that command the therapeutic effects that have been observed. Finally, we analyze the potential nutraceutical impact that FDVs would have on human health and how their oral use could be an emerging strategy to balance nutrition in people.
Doxorubicin Loading into Milk and Mesenchymal Stem Cells’ Extracellular Vesicles as Drug Delivery Vehicles
Authors: Mukhopadhya Anindya , Tsiapalis Dimitrios , McNamee Niamh , Talbot Brian , O’Driscoll Lorraine
Published: February 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have great potential as drug delivery vehicles. While mesenchymal/stromal stem cell (MSC) conditioned medium (CM) and milk are potentially safe and scalable sources of EVs for this purpose, the suitability of MSC EVs and milk EVs as drug delivery vehicles has never been compared and so was the objective of this study. Here EVs were separated from MSCs’ CM and from milk and were characterised by nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy, total protein quantification, and immunoblotting. An anti-cancer chemotherapeutic drug, doxorubicin (Dox), was then loaded into the EVs by one of three methods: by passive loading or by active loading by either electroporation or sonication. Dox-loaded EVs were analysed by fluorescence spectrophotometer, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and imaging flow cytometer (IFCM). Our study showed that EVs were successfully separated from the milk and MSC CM, with significantly (p < 0.001) higher yields of milk EVs/mL starting material compared to MSC EVs/mL of starting material. Using a fixed amount of EVs for each comparison, electroporation achieved significantly more Dox loading when compared to passive loading (p < 0.01). Indeed, of 250 µg of Dox made available for loading, electroporation resulted in 90.1 ± 12 µg of Dox loading into MSC EVs and 68.0 ± 10 µg of Dox loading into milk EVs, as analysed by HPLC. Interestingly, compared to the passive loading and electroporation approach, after sonication significantly fewer CD9+ EVs/mL (p < 0.001) and CD63+ EVs/mL (p < 0.001) existed, as determined by IFCM. This observation indicates that sonication, in particular, may have detrimental effects on EVs. In conclusion, EVs can be successfully separated from both MSC CM and milk, with milk being a particularly rich source. Of the three methods tested, electroporation appears to be superior for achieving maximum drug loading while not causing damage to EV surface proteins.
A 3D Model of Human Buccal Mucosa for Compatibility Testing of Mouth Rinsing Solutions
Authors: Zwicker Paula , Zumpe Maxi , Kramer Axel , Müller Gerald
Published: February 2023

Oral mucositis is the most common and severe non-hematological complication associated with cancer radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or their combination. Treatment of oral mucositis focuses on pain management and the use of natural anti-inflammatory, sometimes weakly antiseptic mouth rinses in combination with optimal oral cavity hygiene. To prevent negative effects of rinsing, accurate testing of oral care products is necessary. Due to their ability to mimic realistic in-vivo conditions, 3D models may be an appropriate option in compatibility testing of anti-inflammatory and antiseptically effective mouth rinses. We present a 3D model of oral mucosa based on the cell line TR-146 with a physical barrier, characterized by high transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and confirmed cell integrity. Histological characterization of the 3D mucosa model showed a stratified, non-keratinized multilayer of epithelial cells similar to that of human oral mucosa. By means of immuno-staining, tissue-specific expression of cytokeratin 13 and 14 was shown. Incubation of the 3D mucosa model with the rinses had no effects on cell viability, but TEER decreased 24h after incubation in all solutions except ProntOral®. Analogous to skin models, the established 3D model meets the quality control criteria of OECD guidelines and may therefore be suitable for comparing the cytocompatibility of oral rinses.
Vitamin E TPGS-Based Nanomedicine, Nanotheranostics, and Targeted Drug Delivery: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Mehata Abhishesh Kumar , Setia Aseem , Vikas Vikas , Malik Ankit Kumar , Hassani Rym , Dailah Hamad Ghaleb , Alhazmi Hassan A. , Albarraq Ahmed A. , Mohan Syam , Muthu Madaswamy S.
Published: February 2023

It has been seventy years since a water-soluble version of vitamin E called tocophersolan (also known as TPGS) was produced; it was approved by USFDA in 1998 as an inactive ingredient. Drug formulation developers were initially intrigued by its surfactant qualities, and gradually it made its way into the toolkit of pharmaceutical drug delivery. Since then, four drugs with TPGS in their formulation have been approved for sale in the United States and Europe including ibuprofen, tipranavir, amprenavir, and tocophersolan. Improvement and implementation of novel diagnostic and therapeutic techniques for disease are goals of nanomedicine and the succeeding field of nanotheranostics. Specifically, imaging and treating tumors with nanohybrid theranostics shows promising potential. Docetaxel, paclitaxel, and doxorubicin are examples of poorly bioavailable therapeutic agents; hence, much effort is applied for developing TPGS-based nanomedicine, nanotheranostics, and targeted drug delivery systems to increase circulation time and promote the reticular endothelial escape of these drug delivery systems. TPGS has been used in a number of ways for improving drug solubility, bioavailability improvement, and prevention of drug efflux from the targeted cells, which makes it an excellent candidate for therapeutic delivery. Through the downregulation of P-gp expression and modulation of efflux pump activity, TPGS can also mitigate multidrug resistance (MDR). Novel materials such as TPGS-based copolymers are being studied for their potential use in various diseases. In recent clinical trials, TPGS has been utilized in a huge number of Phase I, II, and III studies. Additionally, numerous TPGS-based nanomedicine and nanotheranostic applications are reported in the literature which are in their preclinical stage. However, various randomized or human clinical trials have been underway for TPGS-based drug delivery systems for multiple diseases such as pneumonia, malaria, ocular disease, keratoconus, etc. In this review, we have emphasized in detail the review of the nanotheranostics and targeted drug delivery approaches premised on TPGS. In addition, we have covered various therapeutic systems involving TPGS and its analogs with special references to its patent and clinical trials.
Dual Drug Delivery in Cochlear Implants: In Vivo Study of Dexamethasone Combined with Diclofenac or Immunophilin Inhibitor MM284 in Guinea Pigs
Authors: Behrends Wiebke , Wulf Katharina , Raggl Stefan , Fröhlich Max , Eickner Thomas , Dohr Dana , Esser Karl-Heinz , Lenarz Thomas , Scheper Verena , Paasche Gerrit
Published: February 2023

Cochlear implants are well established to treat severe hearing impairments. Despite many different approaches to reduce the formation of connective tissue after electrode insertion and to keep electrical impedances low, results are not yet satisfying. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to combine the incorporation of 5% dexamethasone in the silicone body of the electrode array with an additional polymeric coating releasing diclofenac or the immunophilin inhibitor MM284, some anti-inflammatory substances not yet tested in the inner ear. Guinea pigs were implanted for four weeks and hearing thresholds were determined before implantation and after the observation time. Impedances were monitored over time and, finally, connective tissue and the survival of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) were quantified. Impedances increased in all groups to a similar extent but this increase was delayed in the groups with an additional release of diclofenac or MM284. Using Poly-L-lactide (PLLA)-coated electrodes, the damage caused during insertion was much higher than without the coating. Only in these groups, connective tissue could extend to the apex of the cochlea. Despite this, numbers of SGNs were only reduced in PLLA and PLLA plus diclofenac groups. Even though the polymeric coating was not flexible enough, MM284 seems to especially have potential for further evaluation in connection with cochlear implantation.
T22-PE24-H6 Nanotoxin Selectively Kills CXCR4-High Expressing AML Patient Cells In Vitro and Potently Blocks Dissemination In Vivo
Authors: Núñez Yáiza , Garcia-León Annabel , Falgàs Aïda , Serna Naroa , Sánchez-García Laura , Garrido Ana , Sierra Jorge , Gallardo Alberto , Unzueta Ugutz , Vázquez Esther , Villaverde Antonio , Mangues Ramon , Casanova Isolda
Published: February 2023

Despite advances in the development of targeted therapies for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), most patients relapse. For that reason, it is still necessary to develop novel therapies that improve treatment effectiveness and overcome drug resistance. We developed T22-PE24-H6, a protein nanoparticle that contains the exotoxin A from the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa and is able to specifically deliver this cytotoxic domain to CXCR4+ leukemic cells. Next, we evaluated the selective delivery and antitumor activity of T22-PE24-H6 in CXCR4+ AML cell lines and BM samples from AML patients. Moreover, we assessed the in vivo antitumor effect of this nanotoxin in a disseminated mouse model generated from CXCR4+ AML cells. T22-PE24-H6 showed a potent, CXCR4-dependent antineoplastic effect in vitro in the MONO-MAC-6 AML cell line. In addition, mice treated with nanotoxins in daily doses reduced the dissemination of CXCR4+ AML cells compared to buffer-treated mice, as shown by the significant decrease in BLI signaling. Furthermore, we did not observe any sign of toxicity or changes in mouse body weight, biochemical parameters, or histopathology in normal tissues. Finally, T22-PE24-H6 exhibited a significant inhibition of cell viability in CXCR4high AML patient samples but showed no activity in CXCR4low samples. These data strongly support the use of T22-PE24-H6 therapy to benefit high-CXCR4-expressing AML patients.