bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development, Analytical Characterization, and Bioactivity Evaluation of Boswellia serrata Extract-Layered Double Hydroxide Hybrid Composites
Authors: Cometa Stefania , Busto Francesco , Castellaneta Andrea , Cochis Andrea , Najmi Ziba , Rizzi Rosanna , Losito Ilario , De Giglio Elvira
Published: September 2023

Boswellia serrata Roxb. extract (BSE), rich in boswellic acids, is well known as a potent anti-inflammatory natural drug. However, due to its limited aqueous solubility, BSE inclusion into an appropriate carrier, capable of improving its release in the biological target, would be highly desirable. Starting with this requirement, new hybrid composites based on the inclusion of BSE in a lamellar solid layered double hydroxide (LDH), i.e., magnesium aluminum carbonate, were developed and characterized in the present work. The adopted LDH exhibited a layered crystal structure, comprising positively charged hydroxide layers and interlayers composed of carbonate anions and water molecules; thus, it was expected to embed negatively charged boswellic acids. In the present case, a calcination process was also adopted on the LDH to increase organic acid loading, based on the replacement of the original inorganic anions. An accurate investigation was carried out by TGA, PXRD, FT-IR/ATR, XPS, SEM, and LC-MS to ascertain the nature, interaction, and quantification of the active molecules of the vegetal extract loaded in the developed hybrid materials. As a result, the significant disruption of the original layered structure was observed in the LDH subjected to calcination (LDHc), and this material was able to include a higher amount of organic acids when its composite with BSE was prepared. However, in vitro tests on the composites’ bioactivity, expressed in terms of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity, evidenced LDH–BSE as a better material compared to BSE and to LDHc–BSE, thus suggesting that, although the embedded organic acid amount was lower, they could be more available since they were not firmly bound to the clay. The composite was able to significantly decrease the number of viable pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as the internalization of toxic active species into human cells imposing oxidative stress, in comparison to the BSE.
Reaction Steps in Heterogeneous Photocatalytic Oxidation of Toluene in Gas Phase—A Review
Authors: Tulebekov Yerzhigit , Orazov Zhandos , Satybaldiyev Bagdat , Snow Daniel D. , Schneider Raphaël , Uralbekov Bolat
Published: September 2023

A review of the current literature shows there is no clear consensus regarding the reaction mechanisms of air-borne aromatic compounds such as toluene by photocatalytic oxidation. Potential oxidation reactions over TiO2 or TiO2-based catalysts under ultraviolet and visible (UV/VIS) illumination are most commonly considered for removal of these pollutants. Along the pathways from a model pollutant, toluene, to final mineralization products (CO2 and H2O), the formation of several intermediates via specific reactions include parallel oxidation reactions and formation of less-reactive intermediates on the TiO2 surface. The latter may occupy active adsorption sites and causes drastic catalyst deactivation in some cases. Major hazardous gas-phase intermediates are benzene and formaldehyde, classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as Group 1 carcinogenic compounds. Adsorbed intermediates leading to catalyst deactivation are benzaldehyde, benzoic acid, and cresols. The three most typical pathways of toluene photocatalytic oxidation are reviewed: methyl group oxidation, aromatic ring oxidation, and aromatic ring opening.
Biocatalysis in Water or in Non-Conventional Media? Adding the CO2 Production for the Debate
Authors: Domínguez de María Pablo , Kara Selin , Gallou Fabrice
Published: September 2023

Biocatalysis can be applied in aqueous media and in different non-aqueous solutions (non-conventional media). Water is a safe solvent, yet many synthesis-wise interesting substrates cannot be dissolved in aqueous solutions, and thus low concentrations are often applied. Conversely, non-conventional media may enable higher substrate loadings but at the cost of using (fossil-based) organic solvents. This paper determines the CO2 production—expressed as kg CO2·kg product−1—of generic biotransformations in water and non-conventional media, assessing both the upstream and the downstream. The key to reaching a diminished environmental footprint is the type of wastewater treatment to be implemented. If the used chemicals enable a conventional (mild) wastewater treatment, the production of CO2 is limited. If other (pre)treatments for the wastewater are needed to eliminate hazardous chemicals and solvents, higher environmental impacts can be expected (based on CO2 production). Water media for biocatalysis are more sustainable during the upstream unit—the biocatalytic step—than non-conventional systems. However, processes with aqueous media often need to incorporate extractive solvents during the downstream processing. Both strategies result in comparable CO2 production if extractive solvents are recycled at least 1–2 times. Under these conditions, a generic industrial biotransformation at 100 g L−1 loading would produce 15–25 kg CO2·kg product−1 regardless of the applied media.
Terbium and Europium Chlorocyananilate-Based 2D Coordination Polymers
Authors: Oggianu Mariangela , Abhervé Alexandre , Marongiu Daniela , Quochi Francesco , Galán-Mascarós José Ramón , Bertolotti Federica , Masciocchi Norberto , Avarvari Narcis , Mercuri Maria Laura
Published: September 2023

Two-dimensional layered coordination polymers based on the hetero-substituted 3-chloro-6-cyano-2,5-dihydroxybenzoquinone ligands, hereafter ClCNAn2− anilate, and LnIII ions (Tb and Eu) are reported. Compounds 1 and 2, formulated as Ln2(ClCNAn)3(DMSO)6 (LnIII = Tb, 1; Eu, 2), and their related intermediates 1′ and 2′, formulated as Ln2(ClCNAn)3(H2O)x·yH2O (x + y likely = 12, Ln = Tb, 1′; and Eu, 2′), were prepared by a conventional one-pot reaction (the latter) and recrystallized from DMSO solvent (the former). Polyhydrated intermediates 1′ and 2′ show very similar XRPD patterns, while, despite their common stoichiometry, 1 and 2 are not isostructural. Compound 1 consists of a 2D coordination framework of 3,6 topology, where [Tb(DMSO)3]III moieties are bridged by three bis-chelating ClCNAn2− ligands, forming distorted hexagons. Ultrathin nanosheets of 1 were obtained by exfoliation via the liquid-assisted sonication method and characterized by atomic force microscopy, confirming the 2D nature of 1. The crystal structure of 2, still showing the presence of 2D sheets with a “hexagonal” mesh and a common (3,6) connectivity, is based onto flat, non-corrugated slabs. Indeed, at a larger scale, the different “rectangular tiles” show clear roofing in 1, which is totally absent in 2. The magnetic behavior of 1 very likely indicates depopulation of the highest crystal-field levels, as expected for TbIII compounds.
Nuclear Motion Is Classical: Spectrum of a Magic Protonated Water Cluster
Authors: Frank Irmgard
Published: September 2023

The assumption that nuclear motion is classical explains many phenomena. The problems of Schrödinger’s cat and the EPR paradoxon do not exist in a perfectly deterministic theory. All it needs is to describe nuclear motion classically right from the beginning. To establish this simple idea, it must be tested for as many examples as possible. In the present paper, we use ab initio molecular dynamics to investigate the infrared spectrum of a ‘magic’ protonated water cluster H3O+(H2O)20 which exhibits some features that were believed to afford a quantum treatment of nuclear motion. The role of the temperature in contrast to a quantum mechanical description is discussed.
Exploring Bioactivities and Peptide Content of Body Mucus from the Lusitanian Toadfish Halobatrachus didactylus
Authors: Fernandez Cunha Marta , Coscueta Ezequiel R. , Brassesco María Emilia , Marques Rita , Neto José , Almada Frederico , Gonçalves David , Pintado Manuela
Published: September 2023

Identifying bioactive molecules from marine organisms is still vastly understudied. Fish remain an untapped source of bioactive molecules, even when considering species whose toxicity to other fish species has been noticed before. We assessed potential applications of crude body mucus of the Lusitanian toadfish (Halobratachus didactylus) and characterized its peptide fraction composition. Mucus samples from three individuals (two wild and one captive) revealed potential antioxidant, antihypertensive, and antimicrobial activities. For antioxidant activity, the best results of 2371 ± 97 µmol Trolox Equivalent/g protein for ORAC and 154 ± 6 µmol Trolox Equivalent/g protein for ABTS were obtained. For antihypertensive activity, the relevant inhibitory activity of ACE resulted in IC50 of 60 ± 7 µg protein/mL. Antimicrobial activity was also identified against the pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes. The peptide profile of the crude body mucus was obtained through size exclusion chromatography, with a conspicuous peak at ca. 800 Da. LC-MS/MS allowed the detection of the most probable peptide sequences of this dominant peptide. This is the first study where the bioactive potential of mucus from the Lusitanian toadfish is demonstrated. Peptides with such properties can be applied in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Hydrophilic Partitioning or Surface Adsorption? A Quantitative Assessment of Retention Mechanisms for Hydrophilic Interaction Chromatography (HILIC)
Authors: Guo Yong , Baran Dominik
Published: September 2023

Retention mechanisms in HILIC have been investigated and reported in literature. However, the current understanding of retention mechanisms is qualitative and lacks quantitative details. Previously, mechanism elucidation was based on indirect evidence, and unambiguous assignment of retention mechanisms has not been reported based on direct data. This study aims to quantitatively determine the contributions of two major retention mechanisms in HILIC, hydrophilic partitioning and surface adsorption to the overall retention of neutral compounds. Using the methodologies we developed previously, the phase ratio for adsorbed water layer and distribution coefficients were measured and used to calculate the retention factors contributed by hydrophilic partitioning. The methodology allows the determination of the contribution of surface adsorption simultaneously. The evaluation of five test compounds demonstrates that the retention may be controlled by hydrophilic partitioning, surface adsorption or both depending on compound characteristics. Quantitative assessment of retention mechanisms also makes it possible to better understand the effect of acetonitrile on retention in HILIC.
Harnessing Bio-Immobilized ZnO/CNT/Chitosan Ternary Composite Fabric for Enhanced Photodegradation of a Commercial Reactive Dye
Authors: Humayoun Usama Bin , Mehmood Fazal , Hassan Yasir , Rasheed Aamir , Dastgeer Ghulam , Anwar Asad , Sarwar Nasir , Yoon Daeho
Published: September 2023

Growing demand for sustainable wastewater treatment drives interest in advanced photocatalytic materials. Immobilized photocatalysts hold potential for addressing industrial wastewater organic pollutants, offering substantial surface area, agglomeration prevention, and easy removal. In this study, we successfully immobilized ZnO and carbon nanotubes onto a textile substrate through bilateral esterification and explored their effectiveness as a potent photocatalyst for degrading of commercial textile colorant reactive blue 4 (RB-4) colorant. Findings demonstrated significant improvements in photocatalytic performance upon integrating ZnO and CNTs into the fabric, coupled with chitosan immobilization. The immobilization process of ZnO and CNTs onto the substrate was elucidated through a proposed reaction mechanism, while the appearance of carbonyl peaks at 1719.2 cm−1 in the composite fabric further confirmed bilateral esterification. The as-developed immobilized nano-catalyst exhibited remarkable photocatalytic efficiency with an impressive 93.54% color degradation of RB-4. This innovative approach underscores the immense potential of the ternary immobilized (ZnO/fCNT/chitosan) composite fabric for efficient photocatalytic degradation in textile coloration processes. Exploring the early-stage development of immobilized photocatalysts contributes to safer and more eco-friendly practices, addressing pressing environmental challenges effectively.
The Synthesis, Characterization, and Fluxional Behavior of a Hydridorhodatetraborane
Authors: Diaw-Ndiaye Fatou , Sanz Miguel Pablo J. , Rodríguez Ricardo , Macías Ramón
Published: September 2023

The octahydridotriborate anion plays a crucial role in the field of polyhedral boron chemistry, facilitating the synthesis of higher boranes and the preparation of diverse transition metal complexes. Among the stable forms of this anion, CsB3H8 (or (n-C4H9)4N)[B3H8] have been identified. These salts serve as valuable precursors for the synthesis of metallaboranes, wherein the triborate anion acts as a ligand coordinating to the metal center. In this study, we have successfully synthesized a novel rhodatetraborane dihydride, [Rh(η2-B3H8)(H)2(PPh3)2] (1), which represents a Rh(III) complex featuring a bidentate chelate ligand fasormed by B3H8−. Extensive characterization of this rhodatetraborane complex has been performed using NMR spectroscopy in solution and X-ray diffraction analysis in the solid state. Notably, the complex exhibits intriguing fluxional behavior, which has been investigated using NMR techniques. Moreover, we have explored the reactivity of complex 1 towards pyridine (py) and dimethylphenylphosphine (PMe2Ph). Our findings highlight the labile nature of this four-vertex rhodatetraborane as it undergoes disassembly upon attack from the corresponding Lewis base, resulting in the formation of borane adducts, LBH3, where L = py, PMe2Ph. Furthermore, in these reactions, we report the characterization of new cationic hydride complexes, such as [Rh(H)2(PPh3)2 (py)]+ (2) and [Rh(H)2(PMe2Ph)4]+. Notably, the latter complex has been characterized as the octahydridotriborate salt [Rh(H)2(PMe2Ph)4][B3H8] (3), which extends the scope of rhodatetraborane derivatives.
Structural Expansion of Catalytic RNA Nanostructures through Oligomerization of a Cyclic Trimer of Engineered Ribozymes
Authors: Siddika Mst. Ayesha , Oi Hiroki , Hidaka Kumi , Sugiyama Hiroshi , Endo Masayuki , Matsumura Shigeyoshi , Ikawa Yoshiya
Published: September 2023

The multimolecular assembly of three-dimensionally structured proteins forms their quaternary structures, some of which have high geometric symmetry. The size and complexity of protein quaternary structures often increase in a hierarchical manner, with simpler, smaller structures serving as units for larger quaternary structures. In this study, we exploited oligomerization of a ribozyme cyclic trimer to achieve larger ribozyme-based RNA assembly. By installing kissing loop (KL) interacting units to one-, two-, or three-unit RNA molecules in the ribozyme trimer, we constructed dimers, open-chain oligomers, and branched oligomers of ribozyme trimer units. One type of open-chain oligomer preferentially formed a closed tetramer containing 12 component RNAs to provide 12 ribozyme units. We also observed large assembly of ribozyme trimers, which reached 1000 nm in size.
Effects of Ferrocene and Ferrocenium on MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells and Interconnection with Regulated Cell Death Pathways
Authors: Favaron Cristina , Gabano Elisabetta , Zanellato Ilaria , Gaiaschi Ludovica , Casali Claudio , Bottone Maria Grazia , Ravera Mauro
Published: September 2023

The effects of ferrocene (Fc) and ferrocenium (Fc+) induced in triple negative human breast cancer MCF-7 cells were explored by immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and transmission electron microscopy analysis. The different abilities of Fc and Fc+ to produce reactive oxygen species and induce oxidative stress were clearly observed by activating apoptosis and morphological changes after treatment, but also after tests performed on the model organism D. discoideum, particularly in the case of Fc+. The induction of ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death driven by an overload of lipid peroxides in cellular membranes, occurred after 2 h of treatment with Fc+ but not Fc. However, the more stable Fc showed its effects by activating necroptosis after a longer-lasting treatment. The differences observed in terms of cell death mechanisms and timing may be due to rapid interconversion between the two oxidative forms of internalized iron species (from Fe2+ to Fe3+ and vice versa). Potential limitations include the fact that iron metabolism and mitophagy have not been investigated. However, the ability of both Fc and Fc+ to trigger different and interregulated types of cell death makes them suitable to potentially overcome the shortcomings of traditional apoptosis-mediated anticancer therapies.
Mechanism of Single-Cycle THz Pulse Generation and X-ray Emission: Water-Flow Irradiated by Two Ultra-Short Laser Pulses
Authors: Huang Hsin-Hui , Juodkazis Saulius , Gamaly Eugene G. , Tikhonchuk Vladimir T. , Hatanaka Koji
Published: September 2023

The interaction of two subsequent ultra-short sub-milli-Joule laser pulses with a thin water flow results in an emission of a strong single-cycle THz pulse associated with enhanced soft X-ray emission. In this paper, a chain of processes produced in this interaction is analyzed and compared with other THz generation studies. It is demonstrated that the enhanced THz and X-ray emissions are produced by an energetic electron beam accelerated in the interaction of a main laser pulse with liquid water ejected from the surface by the pre-pulse. This scheme thus provides an efficient laser energy conversion in a THz pulse, avoiding laser self-focusing and filamentation in air.
Magnetic Carbon Quantum Dots/Iron Oxide Composite Based on Waste Rice Noodle and Iron Oxide Scale: Preparation and Photocatalytic Capability
Authors: Ying Wanying , Liu Qing , Jin Xinyan , Ding Guanzhi , Liu Mengyu , Wang Pengyu , Chen Shuoping
Published: September 2023

To provide an economical magnetic photocatalyst and introduce an innovative approach for efficiently utilizing discarded waste rice noodle (WRN) and iron oxide scale (IOS), we initially converted WRN into carbon quantum dots (CQDs) using a hydrothermal method, simultaneously calcining IOS to obtain iron oxide (FeOx). Subsequently, we successfully synthesized a cost-effective, magnetic CQDs/FeOx photocatalytic composite for the first time by combining the resulting CQDs and FeOx. Our findings demonstrated that calcining IOS in an air atmosphere enhanced the content of photocatalytically active α-Fe2O3, while incorporating WRN-based CQDs into FeOx improved the electron-hole pair separation, resulting in increased O2 reduction and H2O oxidation. Under optimized conditions (IOS calcination temperature: 300 °C; carbon loading: 11 wt%), the CQDs/FeOx composite, utilizing WRN and IOS as its foundation, exhibited exceptional and reusable capabilities in photodegrading methylene blue and tetracycline. Remarkably, for methylene blue, it achieved an impressive degradation rate of 99.30% within 480 min, accompanied by a high degradation rate constant of 5.26 × 10−3 min−1. This composite demonstrated reusability potential for up to ten photocatalytic cycles without a significant reduction in the degradation efficiency, surpassing the performance of IOS and FeOx without CQDs. Notably, the composite exhibited strong magnetism with a saturation magnetization strength of 34.7 emu/g, which enables efficient and convenient recovery in photocatalytic applications. This characteristic is highly advantageous for the large-scale industrial utilization of photocatalytic water purification.
Homogeneity of Needleless Electrospun Nanofiber Mats
Authors: Morina Edona , Dotter Marius , Döpke Christoph , Kola Ilda , Spahiu Tatjana , Ehrmann Andrea
Published: September 2023

Nanofiber mats can be electrospun by different techniques, usually subdivided into needle-based and needleless. The latter allow for producing large-area nanofiber mats, e.g., with a width of 50 cm and lengths of several meters, if electrospinning proceeds for several hours, depending on the required thickness. Even spinning smaller samples, however, raises the question of homogeneity, especially if defined mechanical properties or a defined thickness is required, e.g., for filtration purposes. Very often, only the inner parts of such electrospun nanofiber mats are used to avoid too high variation of the nanofiber mat thickness. For this study, we used wire-based electrospinning to prepare nanofiber mats with slightly varying spinning parameters. We report investigations of the thickness and mass per unit area, measured on different positions of needleless electrospun nanofiber mats. Martindale abrasion tests on different positions are added as a measure of the mechanical properties. All nanofiber mats show unexpectedly strong variations of thickness, mass per unit area, and porosity, as calculated from the apparent density of the membranes. The thickness especially varied by nearly one order of magnitude within one sample, while the apparent density, as the most uniform parameter, still showed variations by more than a factor of two within one sample. This shows that even for apparently highly homogeneous areas of such nanofiber mats, variations cannot be neglected for all potential applications.
The Effect of Choline and Resistance Training on Strength and Lean Mass in Older Adults
Authors: Lee Chang Woock , Lee Teak V. , Galvan Elfego , Chen Vincent C. W. , Bui Steve , Crouse Stephen F. , Fluckey James D. , Smith Stephen B. , Riechman Steven E.
Published: September 2023

Choline plays many important roles, including the synthesis of acetylcholine, and may affect muscle responses to exercise. We previously observed correlations between low choline intake and reduced gains in strength and lean mass following a 12-week resistance exercise training (RET) program for older adults. To further explore these findings, we conducted a randomized controlled trial. Three groups of 50-to-69-year-old healthy adults underwent a 12-week RET program (3x/week, 3 sets, 8–12 reps, 70% of maximum strength (1RM)) and submitted >48 diet logs (>4x/week for 12 weeks). Participants’ diets were supplemented with 0.7 mg/kg lean/d (low, n = 13), 2.8 mg/kg lean/d (med, n = 11), or 7.5 mg/kg lean/d (high, n = 13) of choline from egg yolk and protein powder. The ANCOVA tests showed that low choline intake, compared with med or high choline intakes, resulted in significantly diminished gains in composite strength (leg press + chest press 1RM; low, 19.4 ± 8.2%; med, 46.8 ± 8.9%; high, 47.4 ± 8.1%; p = 0.034) and thigh-muscle quality (leg press 1RM/thigh lean mass; low, 12.3 ± 9.6%; med/high, 46.4 ± 7.0%; p = 0.010) after controlling for lean mass, protein, betaine, and vitamin B12. These data suggest that low choline intake may negatively affect strength gains with RET in older adults.
Decreased Fatty Acid Oxidation Gene Expression in Pre-Eclampsia According to the Onset and Presence of Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Authors: Abascal-Saiz Alejandra , Fuente-Luelmo Eva , Haro María , Fioravantti Victoria , Antolín Eugenia , Ramos-Álvarez María P. , Bartha José L.
Published: September 2023

Mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO) is lower in placentas with pre-eclampsia. The aim of our study was to compare the placental mRNA expression of FAO enzymes in healthy pregnancies vs. different subgroups of pre-eclampsia according to the severity, time of onset, and the presence of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). By using real-time qPCR, we measured the mRNA levels of long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (LCHAD), medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD), and carnitine palmitoyltransferases 1A and 2 (CPT1A, CPT2) on the maternal side (anchoring villi in the basal decidua) and on the fetal side (chorionic plate) of the placenta (n = 56). When compared to the controls, LCHAD, MCAD, and CPT2 mRNA had decreased in all pre-eclampsia subgroups globally and on the fetal side. On the maternal side, LCHAD mRNA was also lower in all pre-eclampsia subgroups; however, MCAD and CPT2 mRNA were only reduced in severe and early-onset disease, as well as CPT2 in IUGR (p < 0.05). There were no differences in CPT1A mRNA expression. We conclude that the FAO enzymes mRNA in the placenta was lower in pre-eclampsia, with higher reductions observed in severe, early-onset, and IUGR cases and more striking reductions on the fetal side.
First Report of Food Poisoning Due to Staphylococcal Enterotoxin Type B in Döner Kebab (Italy)
Authors: Romano Angelo , Carrella Simona , Rezza Sara , Nia Yacine , Hennekinne Jacques Antoine , Bianchi Daniela Manila , Martucci Francesca , Zuccon Fabio , Gulino Margherita , Di Mari Carmela , Zaccaria Teresa , Decastelli Lucia
Published: September 2023

Staphylococcal food poisoning results from the consumption of food contaminated by staphylococcal enterotoxins. In July 2022, the Turin local health board was notified of a suspected foodborne outbreak involving six children who had consumed döner kebab purchased from a takeaway restaurant. The symptoms (vomiting and nausea) were observed 2–3 h later. A microbiological analysis of the food samples revealed high levels (1.5 × 107 CFU/g) of coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS). The immunoassay detected a contamination with staphylococcal enterotoxins type B (SEB). The whole genome sequencing of isolates from the food matrix confirmed the staphylococcal enterotoxin genes encoding for type B, which was in line with the SEB detected in the food. This toxin is rarely reported in staphylococcal food poisoning, however, because there is no specific commercial method of detection. The involvement of enterotoxin type P (SEP) was not confirmed, though the corresponding gene (sep) was detected in the isolates. Nasal swabs from the restaurant food handlers tested positive for CPS, linking them to the likely source of the food contamination.
Selective Delivery to Cardiac Muscle Cells Using Cell-Specific Aptamers
Authors: Philippou Styliana , Mastroyiannopoulos Nikolaos P. , Tomazou Marios , Oulas Anastasios , Ackers-Johnson Matthew , Foo Roger S. , Spyrou George M. , Phylactou Leonidas A.
Published: September 2023

In vivo SELEX is an advanced adaptation of Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX) that allows the development of aptamers capable of recognizing targets directly within their natural microenvironment. While this methodology ensures a higher translation potential for the selected aptamer, it does not select for aptamers that recognize specific cell types within a tissue. Such aptamers could potentially improve the development of drugs for several diseases, including neuromuscular disorders, by targeting solely the proteins involved in their pathogenesis. Here, we describe our attempt to utilize in vivo SELEX with a modification in the methodology that drives the selection of intravenously injected aptamers towards a specific cell type of interest. Our data suggest that the incorporation of a cell enrichment step can direct the in vivo localization of RNA aptamers into cardiomyocytes, the cardiac muscle cells, more readily over other cardiac cells. Given the crucial role of cardiomyocytes in the disease pathology in DMD cardiomyopathy and therapy, these aptamers hold great potential as drug delivery vehicles with cardiomyocyte selectivity.
Recent Advances in Electrospun Nanofiber-Based Strategies for Diabetic Wound Healing Application
Authors: Li Kun , Zhu Zhijun , Zhai Yanling , Chen Shaojuan
Published: September 2023

Diabetic ulcers are the second largest complication caused by diabetes mellitus. A great number of factors, including hyperchromic inflammation, susceptible microbial infection, inferior vascularization, the large accumulation of free radicals, and other poor healing-promoting microenvironments hold back the healing process of chronic diabetic ulcer in clinics. With the increasing clinical cases of diabetic ulcers worldwide, the design and development of advanced wound dressings are urgently required to accelerate the treatment of skin wounds caused by diabetic complications. Electrospinning technology has been recognized as a simple, versatile, and cost-reasonable strategy to fabricate dressing materials composed of nanofibers, which possess excellent extracellular matrix (ECM)-mimicking morphology, structure, and biological functions. The electrospinning-based nanofibrous dressings have been widely demonstrated to promote the adhesion, migration, and proliferation of dermal fibroblasts, and further accelerate the wound healing process compared with some other dressing types like traditional cotton gauze and medical sponges, etc. Moreover, the electrospun nanofibers are commonly harvested in the structure of nonwoven-like mats, which possess small pore sizes but high porosity, resulting in great microbial barrier performance as well as excellent moisture and air permeable properties. They also serve as good carriers to load various bioactive agents and/or even living cells, which further impart the electrospinning-based dressings with predetermined biological functions and even multiple functions to significantly improve the healing outcomes of different chronic skin wounds while dramatically shortening the treatment procedure. All these outstanding characteristics have made electrospun nanofibrous dressings one of the most promising dressing candidates for the treatment of chronic diabetic ulcers. This review starts with a brief introduction to diabetic ulcer and the electrospinning process, and then provides a detailed introduction to recent advances in electrospinning-based strategies for the treatment of diabetic wounds. Importantly, the synergetic application of combining electrospinning with bioactive ingredients and/or cell therapy was highlighted. The review also discussed the advantages of hydrogel dressings by using electrospun nanofibers. At the end of the review, the challenge and prospects of electrospinning-based strategies for the treatment of diabetic wounds are discussed in depth.
Application of Advanced Technologies—Nanotechnology, Genomics Technology, and 3D Printing Technology—In Precision Anesthesia: A Comprehensive Narrative Review
Authors: Gu Shiyao , Luo Qingyong , Wen Cen , Zhang Yu , Liu Li , Liu Liu , Liu Su , Chen Chunhua , Lei Qian , Zeng Si
Published: September 2023

There has been increasing interest and rapid developments in precision medicine, which is a new medical concept and model based on individualized medicine with the joint application of genomics, bioinformatics engineering, and big data science. By applying numerous emerging medical frontier technologies, precision medicine could allow individualized and precise treatment for specific diseases and patients. This article reviews the application and progress of advanced technologies in the anesthesiology field, in which nanotechnology and genomics can provide more personalized anesthesia protocols, while 3D printing can yield more patient-friendly anesthesia supplies and technical training materials to improve the accuracy and efficiency of decision-making in anesthesiology. The objective of this manuscript is to analyze the recent scientific evidence on the application of nanotechnology in anesthesiology. It specifically focuses on nanomedicine, precision medicine, and clinical anesthesia. In addition, it also includes genomics and 3D printing. By studying the current research and advancements in these advanced technologies, this review aims to provide a deeper understanding of the potential impact of these advanced technologies on improving anesthesia techniques, personalized pain management, and advancing precision medicine in the field of anesthesia.
The Invasion of Galinsoga quadriradiata into High Elevations Is Shaped by Variation in AMF Communities
Authors: Liu Gang , Liu Ruiling , Lee Benjamin R. , Song Xingjiang , Zhang Wengang , Zhu Zhihong , Shi Yan
Published: September 2023

Mountain ranges have been previously suggested to act as natural barriers to plant invasion due to extreme environmental conditions. However, how arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) affect invasion into these systems has been less explored. Here, we investigated how changes in AMF communities affect the performance of Galinsoga quadriradiata in mountain ranges. We performed a greenhouse experiment to study the impact of inoculations of AMF from different elevations on the performance and reproduction of invaders and how competition with native plants changes the effects of invader–AMF interactions. We found strong evidence for a nuanced role of AMF associations in the invasion trajectory of G. quadriradiata, with facilitative effects at low elevations and inhibitory effects at high elevations. Galinsoga quadriradiata performed best when grown with inoculum collected from the same elevation but performed worst when grown with inoculum collected from beyond its currently invaded range, suggesting that AMF communities can help deter invasion at high elevations. Finally, the invasive plants grown alone experienced negative effects from AMF, while those grown in competition experienced positive effects, regardless of the AMF source. This suggests that G. quadriradiata lowers its partnerships with AMF in stressful environments unless native plants are present, in which case it overpowers native plants to obtain AMF support during invasion. Finally, our results indicate that invader–AMF interactions can inhibit invasive range expansion at high elevations, and biotic interactions, in addition to harsh environmental conditions, make high-elevation mountain ranges natural barriers against continued invasion.
Effects of Annual Growth Conditions on Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in the Roots of Eryngium montanum
Authors: Pérez-Ochoa Mónica L. , Vera-Guzmán Araceli M. , Mondragón-Chaparro Demetria M. , Sandoval-Torres Sadoth , Carrillo-Rodríguez José C. , Mayek-Pérez Netzahualcoyotl , Chávez-Servia José L.
Published: September 2023

Medicinal plants grown in natural settings are exposed to different adverse environmental conditions that determine their growth and development as well as the composition and concentration of secondary metabolites in their organs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of environmental conditions associated with localities and annual growth cycles on the contents of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, antioxidant activity and potentially bioactive phenolic acids in the roots of Eryngium montanum, a medicinal species from temperate Mexico. The samples for composition analysis were collected using a bifactorial design: Factor A consisted of the localities (Morelos and La Unión de San Martin Huamelulpam, Mexico) and Factor B was represented by the annual growth cycle (2020 and 2021). In each sample, the contents of polyphenols and equivalent flavonoids of quercetin and catechin and antioxidant activity were evaluated using spectrophotometry. Subsequently, chlorogenic, caffeic and rosmarinic acids were identified and quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD). The annual growth conditions and, to a lesser extent, the locality of origin of the samples significantly influenced the contents of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. The environmental conditions that occurred in 2021 favored an increase in the contents of phenolic compounds compared to those in 2020, and the same pattern was observed for chlorogenic acid; however, for caffeic and rosmarinic acids, the opposite pattern was observed. The content of phenolic acids in the roots of E. montanum follows different and independent patterns between cycles based on the interaction between the locality of origin and annual growth cycle. This study quantifies the magnitude of the total environmental effect on the phenolic compound concentrations in E. montanum roots, which was measured via sampling during two annual growth cycles, where the sampling locations factor had little influence. The bioactive compounds identified in E. montanum roots have the potential for use as alternative medicines, as mentioned by different families from Oaxaca, Mexico.
ZnO Treatment on Mechanical Behavior of Polyethylene/Yellow Birch Fiber Composites When Exposed to Fungal Wood Rot
Authors: Agbozouhoue Kodjovi Kekeli , Koffi Demagna , Erchiqui Fouad , Barnabé Simon
Published: September 2023

Wood plastic composite (WPC) usage and demand have increased because of its interesting chemical and mechanical properties compared to other plastic materials. However, there is a possibility of structural and mechanical changes to the material when exposed to the external environment; most research on wood plastic is performed on the material with elevated fiber content (40–70%). Therefore, more research needs to be performed regarding these issues, especially when the fiber content of the WPC is low. In this study, composite materials composed of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) reinforced with yellow birch fibers (20 and 30%) were made by injection molding. The fibers were treated with dissolved zinc oxide (ZnO) powder in sodium oxide (NaOH) solution, and the fabricated material was exposed to fungal rot. ZnO treatment in this case is different from most studies because ZnO nanoparticles are usually employed. The main reason was to obtain better fixation of ZnO on the fibers. The mechanical properties of the composites were assessed by the tensile and Izod impact tests. The impact energies of the samples fabricated with ZnO-treated fibers and exposed to Gloephyllum trabeum and Trametes versicolor decreased, when compared to samples fabricated with ZnO-nontreated fibers. The mechanical properties of the samples composed of ZnO-treated fibers and exposed to rot decreased, which were reported by a decreased Young’s modulus and impact energies. The usage of ZnO treatment prevented mycelium proliferation, which was nonexistent on the samples. It has been noted that the decrease in mechanical properties of the treated samples was because of the action of NaOH used to dissolve the ZnO powder.
Cohesive Zone Modeling of Pull-Out Test for Dental Fiber–Silicone Polymer
Authors: Maqableh Ayman M. , Hatamleh Muhanad M.
Published: September 2023

Background: Several analytical methods for the fiber pull-out test have been developed to evaluate the bond strength of fiber–matrix systems. We aimed to investigate the debonding mechanism of a fiber–silicone pull-out specimen and validate the experimental data using 3D-FEM and a cohesive element approach. Methods: A 3D model of a fiber–silicone pull-out testing specimen was established by pre-processing CT images of the typical specimen. The materials on the scans were posted in three different cross-sectional views using ScanIP and imported to ScanFE in which 3D generation was implemented for all of the image slices. This file was exported in FEA format and was imported in the FEA software (PATRAN/ABAQUS, version r2) for generating solid mesh, boundary conditions, and material properties attribution, as well as load case creation and data processing. Results: The FEM cohesive zone pull-out force versus displacement curve showed an initial linear response. The Von Mises stress concentration was distributed along the fiber–silicone interface. The damage in the principal stresses’ directions S11, S22, and S33, which represented the maximum possible magnitude of tensile and compressive stress at the fiber–silicone interface, showed that the stress is higher in the direction S33 (stress acting in the Z-direction) in which the lower damage criterion was higher as well when compared to S11 (stress acting in the XY plane) and S23 (stress acting in the YZ plane). Conclusions: The comparison between the experimental values and the results from the finite element simulations show that the proposed cohesive zone model accurately reproduces the experimental results. These results are considered almost identical to the experimental observations about the interface. The cohesive element approach is a potential function that takes into account the shear effects with many advantages related to its ability to predict the initiation and progress of the fiber–silicone debonding during pull-out tests. A disadvantage of this approach is the computational effort required for the simulation and analysis process. A good understanding of the parameters related to the cohesive laws is responsible for a successful simulation.
Peculiarity of the Mechanism of Early Stages of Photo-Oxidative Degradation of Linear Low-Density Polyethylene Films in the Presence of Ferric Stearate
Authors: Wang Zhiming , Wang Zhongwei , Liu Dayong , Wang Qingzhao
Published: September 2023

Ferric stearate (FeSt3) is very efficient in accelerating polyethylene (PE) degradation, but there is a lack of exploration of its role in accelerating the early stages of polyethylene photo-oxidative degradation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of FeSt3 on the photo-oxidative degradation of PE films, especially in the early stages of photo-oxidative degradation. The results show that FeSt3 not only promotes the oxidative degradation of PE but also contributes significantly to the early behavior of photo-oxidative degradation. Moreover, the results of the density functional theory (DFT) calculations proved that the C-H in the FeSt3 ligand was more easily dissociated compared with the PE matrix. The generated H radicals participate in the coupling reaction of the primary alkyl macro radicals leading to the molecular weight reduction, thus significantly increasing the initial rate of molecular weight reduction of PE. Meanwhile, the transfer reaction of the dissociation-generated C-centered radicals induced the PE matrix to produce more secondary alkyl macroradicals, which shortened the time to enter the oxidative degradation stage. This finding reveals the mechanism by which FeSt3 promotes the degradation of PE at the early stage of photo-oxidative degradation. It provides guiding significance for the in-depth study of the early degradation behavior in photo-oxidative degradation on polyolefin/FeSt3 films.
Uncovering Covert Syncretic Holy Water among ANPCs in South Africa
Authors: Thinane Jonas
Published: September 2023

In most societies where Christianity is dominant, it has manifested itself in different ways, reflecting its admixture with indigenous religious practices, an admixture commonly seen in most African contexts. This is evidenced by overt syncretic practices and rarely covert syncretic practices that conceal the blending of beliefs, including belief in the mystical powers of water. In part, this explains why African Christian believers, particularly African Pentecostal believers in most African countries, often uncritically believe claims about holy water. To that end, this article examines the literature to uncover the existence of covert syncretic holy water in African Neo-Pentecostal Churches (ANPC), particularly in South Africa, where ANPC pastors make arbitrary claims about the power of holy water. Contrary to the apparent syncretism, claims about holy water as witnessed among ANPCs in South Africa, covertly combine elements of two belief systems (ancient African traditions and contemporary African Christianity), resulting in covert syncretic holy water. As little or no literature understands the covert syncretic holy water, the work of this paper warrants future research to further examine the covert syncretic holy water, particularly in relation to ANPC holy water claims.
Typical Fine Structure and Seismogenic Mechanism Analysis of the Surface Rupture of the 2022 Menyuan Mw 6.7 Earthquake
Authors: Wen Yameng , Yuan Daoyang , Xie Hong , Su Ruihuan , Su Qi , Li Zhimin , Sun Hao , Si Guojun , Yu Jinchao , Chen Yanwen , Li Hongqiang , Zhang Lijun
Published: September 2023

On 8 January 2022, a seismic event of significant magnitude (Mw 6.7, Ms 6.9) occurred in the northeastern region of the Tibetan Plateau. This earthquake was characterized by left-lateral strike-slip motion, accompanied by a minor reverse movement. The Menyuan earthquake resulted in the formation of two main ruptures and one secondary rupture. These ruptures were marked by a left-lateral step zone that extended over a distance of 1 km between the main ruptures. The length of the rupture zones was approximately 37 km. The surface rupture zone exhibited various features, including left-lateral offset small gullies, riverbeds, wire fences, road subgrades, mole tracks, cracks, and scarps. Through a comprehensive field investigation and precise measurement using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery, 111 coseismic horizontal offsets were determined, with the maximum offset recorded at 2.6 ± 0.3 m. The analysis of aftershocks and the findings from the field investigation led to the conclusion that the earthquake was triggered by the Lenglongling fault and the Tuolaishan fault. These faults intersected at a release double-curved structure, commonly referred to as a stepover. During this particular process, the Lenglongling fault was responsible for initiating the coseismic rupture of the Sunan–Qilian fault. It is important to note that the stress applied to the Tuolaishan fault has not been fully relieved, indicating the presence of potential future hazards.
Editorial for Special Issue: “Recent Progress in UAV-AI Remote Sensing”
Authors: Dong Yingying , Yang Chenghai , Laneve Giovanni , Huang Wenjiang
Published: September 2023

The development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques has drawn increasing interest and started a novel area of research applications [...]
Mapping Buildings across Heterogeneous Landscapes: Machine Learning and Deep Learning Applied to Multi-Modal Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Mason Rachel E. , Vaughn Nicholas R. , Asner Gregory P.
Published: September 2023

We describe the production of maps of buildings on Hawai’i Island, based on complementary information contained in two different types of remote sensing data. The maps cover 3200 km2 over a highly varied set of landscape types and building densities. A convolutional neural network was first trained to identify building candidates in LiDAR data. To better differentiate between true buildings and false positives, the CNN-based building probability map was then used, together with 400–2400 nm imaging spectroscopy, as input to a gradient boosting model. Simple vector operations were then employed to further refine the final maps. This stepwise approach resulted in detection of 84%, 100%, and 97% of manually labeled buildings, at the 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 percentiles of true building size, respectively, with very few false positives. The median absolute error in modeled building areas was 15%. This novel integration of deep learning, machine learning, and multi-modal remote sensing data was thus effective in detecting buildings over large scales and diverse landscapes, with potential applications in urban planning, resource management, and disaster response. The adaptable method presented here expands the range of techniques available for object detection in multi-modal remote sensing data and can be tailored to various kinds of input data, landscape types, and mapping goals.