bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Energy and Economics of Self-Made Catalyst-Coated Membrane for Fuel Cell under Different Oxidants
Authors: Bai Qiang , Hsieh Chuangyu , Li Shaobo
Published: January 2022

In the context of global warming, clean energy represented by fuel cells has ushered in a window period of rapid development; however, most research mainly focuses on the improvement of catalysts and performance, and there is very little research on the performance differences and energy consumption between different oxidants. In this paper, the performance differences of fuel cells with different oxidants (air and oxygen) are studied using a self-made CCM, and the economic aspect is calculated from the perspective of power improvement and energy consumption. Firstly, the CCM and GDL are prepared, and the hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of GDL are realized by the addition of PTFE and SiO2, respectively. Secondly, through the experiment, it is found that the fuel cell can achieve the best comprehensive performance at 60 °C, and the use of oxygen can achieve the highest power increase, 117.1%, compared with air. Finally, from the perspective of economics, after excluding the power consumed for preparing oxygen, the use of oxygen as an oxidant still achieved a net power increase of 29.512%. The research in this paper clearly shows that using oxygen instead of air can greatly improve performance and is good economically, which makes it a useful exploration for the research of fuel cells.
Formation of β-Strand Oligomers of Antimicrobial Peptide Magainin 2 Contributes to Disruption of Phospholipid Membrane
Authors: Kumashiro Munehiro , Tsuji Ryoga , Suenaga Shoma , Matsuo Koichi
Published: January 2022

The antimicrobial peptide magainin 2 (M2) interacts with and induces structural damage in bacterial cell membranes. Although extensive biophysical studies have revealed the interaction mechanism between M2 and membranes, the mechanism of membrane-mediated oligomerization of M2 is controversial. Here, we measured the synchrotron-radiation circular dichroism and linear dichroism (LD) spectra of M2 in dipalmitoyl-phosphatidylglycerol lipid membranes in lipid-to-peptide (L/P) molar ratios from 0–26 to characterize the conformation and orientation of M2 on the membrane. The results showed that M2 changed from random coil to α-helix structures via an intermediate state with increasing L/P ratio. Singular value decomposition analysis supported the presence of the intermediate state, and global fitting analysis revealed that M2 monomers with an α-helix structure assembled and transformed into M2 oligomers with a β-strand-rich structure in the intermediate state. In addition, LD spectra showed the presence of β-strand structures in the intermediate state, disclosing their orientations on the membrane surface. Furthermore, fluorescence spectroscopy showed that the formation of β-strand oligomers destabilized the membrane structure and induced the leakage of calcein molecules entrapped in the membrane. These results suggest that the formation of β-strand oligomers of M2 plays a crucial role in the disruption of the cell membrane.
Characteristics of Inorganic–Organic Hybrid Membranes Containing Carbon Nanotubes with Increased Iron-Encapsulated Content for CO2 Separation
Authors: Rybak Aleksandra , Rybak Aurelia , Kaszuwara Waldemar , Boncel Sławomir , Kolanowska Anna , Kolev Spas D.
Published: January 2022

Novel inorganic–organic hybrid membranes Fe@MWCNT/PPO or Fe@MWCNT-OH/SPPO (with a new type of CNTs characterized by increased iron content 5.80 wt%) were synthesized for CO2 separation. The introduction of nanofillers into the polymer matrix has significantly improved the hybrid membrane’s gas transport (D, P, S, and αCO2/N2), magnetic, thermal, and mechanical parameters. It was found that magnetic casting has improved the alignment and dispersion of Fe@MWCNTs. At the same time, CNTs and polymer chemical modification enhanced interphase compatibility and the membrane’s CO2 separation efficiency. The thermo-oxidative stability and mechanical and magnetic parameters of composites were improved by increasing new CNTs loading. Cherazi’s model turned out to be suitable for describing the CO2 transport through analyzed hybrid membranes.
Understanding the Micro-Mechanical Behaviour of Recast Layer Formed during WEDM of Titanium Alloy
Authors: Basak Animesh , Pramanik Alokesh , Prakash Chander , Shankar Subramaniam , Debnath Sujan
Published: January 2022

In the course of wire electro-discharge machining (WEDM), the unavoidable and undesirable formation of a recast layer on titanium (Ti) alloy was observed to have taken place. As a result, subsequent processing steps are required to remove this recast layer. In order to facilitate its removal, this study investigates the micro-mechanical properties of the said recast layer to better understand them. To that end, micro-pillars were fabricated on a recast layer after which in situ micro-pillar compression and nanoindentation were carried out. The in situ compression technique helps visualize deformation of materials in real time with corresponding features in stress–strain curves. The recast layer exhibits relatively brittle behaviour associated with the heat-affected zone (HAZ) and base alloy. Whereas the base alloy experienced substantial work hardening as evidenced by the formation of slip/shear bands, the recast layer was found to break down under external loading without any visible strain accommodation. This understanding of the recast layers could facilitate the design of effective removal operations, saving time and money. In addition, the recast layer might be useful in some applications.
Development of Bottom-Blowing Copper Smelting Technology: A Review
Authors: Zhao Baojun , Liao Jinfa
Published: January 2022

Bottom-blowing copper smelting technology was initiated and developed in China in the 1990s. Injection of oxygen-enriched high-pressure gas strongly stirs the molten bath consisting of matte and slag. Rapid reaction at relatively lower temperatures and good adaptability of the feed materials are the main advantages of this technology. Development and optimisation of bottom-blowing copper smelting technology were supported by extensive studies on the thermodynamics of the slag and the fluid dynamic of the molten bath. The history of technological development and fundamental studies related to this technology are reviewed in this paper.
Vertical Transfer of Metabolites Detectable from Newborn’s Dried Blood Spot Samples Using UPLC-MS: A Chemometric Study
Authors: Olarini Alessandra , Ernst Madeleine , Gürdeniz Gözde , Kim Min , Brustad Nicklas , Bønnelykke Klaus , Cohen Arieh , Hougaard David , Lasky-Su Jessica , Bisgaard Hans , Chawes Bo , Rasmussen Morten Arendt
Published: January 2022

The pregnancy period and first days of a newborn’s life is an important time window to ensure a healthy development of the baby. This is also the time when the mother and her baby are exposed to the same environmental conditions and intake of nutrients, which can be determined by assessing the blood metabolome. For this purpose, dried blood spots (DBS) of newborns are a valuable sampling technique to characterize what happens during this important mother-child time window. We used metabolomics profiles from DBS of newborns (age 2–3 days) and maternal plasma samples at gestation week 24 and postpartum week 1 from n=664 mother-child pairs of the Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood 2010 (COPSAC2010) cohort, to study the vertical mother-child transfer of metabolites. Further, we investigated how persistent the metabolites are from the newborn and up to 6 months, 18 months, and 6 years of age. Two hundred seventy two metabolites from UPLC-MS (Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) analysis of DBS and maternal plasma were analyzed using correlation analysis. A total of 11 metabolites exhibited evidence of transfer (R>0.3), including tryptophan betaine, ergothioneine, cotinine, theobromine, paraxanthine, and N6-methyllysine. Of these, 7 were also found to show persistence in their levels in the child from birth to age 6 years. In conclusion, this study documents vertical transfer of environmental and food-derived metabolites from mother to child and tracking of those metabolites through childhood, which may be of importance for the child’s later health and disease.
Comparative Metabolite Profiling of Wheat Cultivars (Triticum aestivum) Reveals Signatory Markers for Resistance and Susceptibility to Stripe Rust and Aluminium (Al3+) Toxicity
Authors: Mashabela Manamele D. , Piater Lizelle A. , Steenkamp Paul A. , Dubery Ian A. , Tugizimana Fidele , Mhlongo Msizi I.
Published: January 2022

Plants continuously produce essential metabolites that regulate their growth and development. The enrichment of specific metabolites determines plant interactions with the immediate environment, and some metabolites become critical in defence responses against biotic and abiotic stresses. Here, an untargeted UHPLC-qTOF-MS approach was employed to profile metabolites of wheat cultivars resistant or susceptible to the pathogen Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) and Aluminium (Al3+) toxicity. Multivariate statistical analysis (MVDA) tools, viz. principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HiCA) were used to qualify the correlation between the identified metabolites and the designated traits. A total of 100 metabolites were identified from primary and secondary metabolisms, including phenolic compounds, such as flavonoid glycosides and hydroxycinnamic acid (HCA) derivatives, fatty acids, amino acids, and organic acids. All metabolites were significantly variable among the five wheat cultivars. The Pst susceptible cultivars demonstrated elevated concentrations of HCAs compared to their resistant counterparts. In contrast, ‘Koonap’ displayed higher levels of flavonoid glycosides, which could point to its resistant phenotype to Pst and Al3+ toxicity. The data provides an insight into the metabolomic profiles and thus the genetic background of Pst- and Al3+-resistant and susceptible wheat varieties. This study demonstrates the prospects of applied metabolomics for chemotaxonomic classification, phenotyping, and potential use in plant breeding and crop improvement.
Overview of tRNA Modifications in Chloroplasts
Authors: Fages-Lartaud Maxime , Hohmann-Marriott Martin Frank
Published: January 2022

The chloroplast is a promising platform for biotechnological innovation due to its compact translation machinery. Nucleotide modifications within a minimal set of tRNAs modulate codon–anticodon interactions that are crucial for translation efficiency. However, a comprehensive assessment of these modifications does not presently exist in chloroplasts. Here, we synthesize all available information concerning tRNA modifications in the chloroplast and assign translation efficiency for each modified anticodon–codon pair. In addition, we perform a bioinformatics analysis that links enzymes to tRNA modifications and aminoacylation in the chloroplast of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. This work provides the first comprehensive analysis of codon and anticodon interactions of chloroplasts and its implication for translation efficiency.
Palustrine Sediments between Two Isolated Shallow Carbonate Platforms (Aptian–Albian Transition, Prebetic of Jaén, South Spain)
Authors: Nieto Luis M. , Molina José Miguel , Ruiz-Ortiz Pedro Alejandro , Castro José Manuel , Reolid Matías , de Gea Ginés A.
Published: January 2022

During the Aptian-Albian transition, an extensional phase of the Central Atlantic which affected the Prebetic carbonate platform (South Iberian Continental Margin, northwestern margin of the Tethys) occurred. A graben morphology was developed in the platform coeval to a relative sea level fall. As a consequence, palustrine facies characterized by rhizoliths and some pond deposits of black lutites were established. Over these palustrine sediments, a second shallow carbonate platform was built during the early Albian. However, this process was not abrupt, as several levels with orbitolines and rudists were deposited intercalated between the continental facies, recording the transition to a new shallow marine carbonate platform developped during the Early Albian. The presence of these continental palustrine sediments between two episodes of shallow carbonate platform is described for the first time in the Prebetic. The demise of an upper Aptian isolated shallow carbonate platform drove to the deposition of these palustrine sediments in an extensional tectonic regime.
Crystallographic Characteristics of Inorganic Mineral in Mammoth Ivory and Ivory
Authors: Sun Xueying , He Mingyue , Wu Jinlin
Published: January 2022

In this paper, the chemical composition and crystalline properties of mammoth ivory and ivory were systematically analyzed. The results revealed that the microscopic crystalline hydroxyapatites are the major component of minerals in mammoth ivory and ivory. The Ca/P ratios of the samples studied are obviously lower than apatite. Refined cell parameters showed a similar value between mammoth ivory (a = 9.4148 Å and b = 6.8821 Å) and ivory (a = 9.4166 Å and c = 6.8841 Å). Individual crystal sizes in mammoth ivory and ivory are estimated to be 20.41–23.16 and 18.92–21.50 nm, respectively. The calculated crystallinity of two kinds of ivory (mammoth ivory: 1.55; ivory: 1.4) is far lower than geological mineral fluorapatite due to the impact of tissue function and organic matrix.
An Open Integrated Rock Spectral Library (RockSL) for a Global Sharing and Matching Service
Authors: Xie Busheng , Wu Lixin , Mao Wenfei , Zhou Shengyu , Liu Shanjun
Published: January 2022

Minerals and rocks are important natural resources that are formed over a long period of geological history. Spectroscopy is the basis of the identification and characterisation of rocks and minerals via proximal sensing in the field or remote sensing systems with multi- and hyper-spectral capabilities. However, spectral data is scattered around different institutions worldwide and stored in various formats, resulting in poor data usability and an unnecessary waste of time and information. To improve the usability and performance of mineral spectral data, we developed an integrated open mineral spectral library (Rock Spectral Library, RockSL). Shared spectral data and related information were collected worldwide, and data cleaning measures were performed to retain the qualified spectra and merge all qualified data (raster, vector, and text formats) in a common framework to establish a reliable and comprehensive digital data set for an easy sharing and matching service. A software system was developed for the RockSL to manage, analyse, and apply the spectral data of minerals and rocks. We demonstrate how the information encoded in RockSL can determine the species of unknown rocks and describe specific mineral compositions. We also provide a reference scheme of the work chain and present key technologies for building different spectral libraries in diverse fields using RockSL. New contributions to RockSL are encouraged for this work to be improved to provide a better service and extend the applications of geo-sciences. This article introduces the characteristics of RockSL and demonstrates an experimental application.
Phytochemical Compound Screening to Identify Novel Small Molecules against Dengue Virus: A Docking and Dynamics Study
Authors: Shimu Mst. Sharmin Sultana , Mahmud Shafi , Tallei Trina Ekwati , Sami Saad Ahmed , Adam Ahmad Akroman , Acharjee Uzzal Kumar , Paul Gobindo Kumar , Emran Talha Bin , Zaman Shahriar , Uddin Md. Salah , Saleh Md. Abu , Alshehri Sultan , Ghoneim Mohammed M , Alruwali Maha , Obaidullah Ahmad J. , Jui Nabilah Rahman , Kim Junghwan , Kim Bonglee
Published: January 2022

The spread of the Dengue virus over the world, as well as multiple outbreaks of different serotypes, has resulted in a large number of deaths and a medical emergency, as no viable medications to treat Dengue virus patients have yet been found. In this paper, we provide an in silico virtual screening and molecular dynamics-based analysis to uncover efficient Dengue infection inhibitors. Based on a Google search and literature mining, a large phytochemical library was generated and employed as ligand molecules. In this investigation, the protein target NS2B/NS3 from Dengue was employed, and around 27 compounds were evaluated in a docking study. Phellodendroside (−63 kcal/mole), quercimeritrin (−59.5 kcal/mole), and quercetin-7-O-rutinoside (−54.1 kcal/mole) were chosen based on their binding free energy in MM-GBSA. The tested compounds generated numerous interactions at Lys74, Asn152, and Gln167 residues in the active regions of NS2B/NS3, which is needed for the protein’s inhibition. As a result, the stable mode of docked complexes is defined by various descriptors from molecular dynamics simulations, such as RMSD, SASA, Rg, RMSF, and hydrogen bond. The pharmacological properties of the compounds were also investigated, and no toxicity was found in computational ADMET properties calculations. As a result, this computational analysis may aid fellow researchers in developing innovative Dengue virus inhibitors.
Chondroitin Sulfate Protects the Liver in an Experimental Model of Extra-Hepatic Cholestasis Induced by Common Bile Duct Ligation
Authors: Guedes Pedro L. R. , Carvalho Carolina P. F. , Carbonel Adriana A. F. , Simões Manuel J. , Icimoto Marcelo Y. , Aguiar Jair A. K. , Kouyoumdjian Maria , Gazarini Marcos L. , Nagaoka Marcia R.
Published: January 2022

During liver fibrogenesis, there is an imbalance between regeneration and wound healing. The current treatment is the withdrawal of the causing agent; thus, investigation of new and effective treatments is important. Studies have highlighted the action of chondroitin sulfate (CS) in different cells; thus, our aim was to analyze its effect on an experimental model of bile duct ligation (BDL). Adult Wistar rats were subjected to BDL and treated with CS for 7, 14, 21, or 28 days intraperitoneally. We performed histomorphometric analyses on Picrosirius-stained liver sections. Cell death was analyzed according to caspase-3 and cathepsin B activity and using a TUNEL assay. Regeneration was evaluated using PCNA immunohistochemistry. BDL led to increased collagen content with corresponding decreased liver parenchyma. CS treatment reduced total collagen and increased parenchyma content after 21 and 28 days. The treatment also promoted changes in the hepatic collagen type III/I ratio. Furthermore, it was observed that CS treatment reduced caspase-3 activity and the percentage of TUNEL-positive cells after 14 days and cathepsin B activity only after 28 days. The regeneration increased after 14, 21, and 28 days of CS treatment. In conclusion, our study showed a promising hepatoprotective action of CS in fibrogenesis induced by BDL.
Approaches to the Potential Therapy of COVID-19: A General Overview from the Medicinal Chemistry Perspective
Authors: Menéndez J. Carlos
Published: January 2022

In spite of advances in vaccination, control of the COVID-19 pandemic will require the use of pharmacological treatments against SARS-CoV2. Their development needs to consider the existence of two phases in the disease, namely the viral infection and the inflammatory stages. The main targets for antiviral therapeutic intervention are: (a) viral proteins, including the spike (S) protein characteristic of the viral cover and the viral proteases in charge of processing the polyprotein arising from viral genome translation; (b) host proteins, such as those involved in the processes related to viral entry into the host cell and the release of the viral genome inside the cell, the elongation factor eEF1A and importins. The use of antivirals targeted at host proteins is less developed but it has the potential advantage of not being affected by mutations in the genome of the virus and therefore being active against all its variants. Regarding drugs that address the hyperinflammatory phase of the disease triggered by the so-called cytokine storm, the following strategies are particularly relevant: (a) drugs targeting JAK kinases; (b) sphingosine kinase 2 inhibitors; (c) antibodies against interleukin 6 or its receptor; (d) use of the traditional anti-inflammatory corticosteroids.
Polycation–Polyanion Architecture of the Intermetallic Compound Mg3−xGa1+xIr
Authors: Sichevych Olga , Prots Yurii , Schnelle Walter , Wagner Frank R. , Grin Yuri
Published: January 2022

Mg3−xGa1+xIr (x = 0.05) was synthesized by direct reaction of the elements in welded tantalum containers at 1200 °C and subsequent annealing at 500 °C for 30 days. Its crystal structure represents a new prototype and was determined by single-crystal technique as follows: space group P63/mcm, Pearson symbol hP90, Z = 18, a = 14.4970(3) Å, c = 8.8638(3) Å. The composition and atomic arrangement in Mg3GaIr do not follow the 8–N rule due to the lack of valence electrons. Based on chemical bonding analysis in positional space, it was shown that the title compound has a polycationic–polyanionic organization. In comparison with other known intermetallic substances with this kind of bonding pattern, both the polyanion and the polyanion are remarkably complex. Mg3−xGa1+xIr is an example of how the general organization of intermetallic substances (e.g., formation of polyanions and polycations) can be understood by extending the principles of 8–N compounds to electron-deficient materials with multi-atomic bonding.
Antifungal and Anti-Virulent Activity of Origanum majorana L. Essential Oil on Candida albicans and In Vivo Toxicity in the Galleria mellonella Larval Model
Authors: Kaskatepe Banu , Aslan Erdem Sinem , Ozturk Sukran , Safi Oz Zehra , Subasi Eldan , Koyuncu Mehmet , Vlainić Josipa , Kosalec Ivan
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate and compare in detail both the antifungal activity in vitro (with planktonic and biofilm-forming cells) and the essential oil composition (EOs) of naturally growing (OMN) and cultivated (OMC) samples of Origanum majorana L. (marjoram). The essential oil composition was analyzed using GC-MS. The major constituent of both EOs was carvacrol: 75.3% and 84%, respectively. Both essential oils showed high antifungal activity against clinically relevant Candida spp. with IC50 and IC90 less than or equal to 0.5 µg mL−1 and inhibition of biofilm with a concentration of 3.5 µg mL−1 or less. Cultivated marjoram oil showed higher anti-biofilm activity against C. albicans. In addition, OMC showed greater inhibition of germ-tube formation (inhibition by 83% in Spider media), the major virulence factor of C. albicans at a concentration of 0.125 µg mL−1. Both EOs modulated cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH), but OMN proved to be more active with a CSH% up to 58.41%. The efficacy of O. majorana EOs was also investigated using Galleria mellonella larvae as a model. It was observed that while the larvae of the control group infected with C. albicans (6.0 × 108 cells) and not receiving treatment died in the controls carried out after 24 h, all larvae in the infected treatment group survived at the end of the 96th hour. When the treatment group and the infected group were evaluated in terms of vital activities, it was found that the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). The infection of larvae with C. albicans and the effects of O. majorana EOs on the hemocytes of the model organism and the blastospores of C. albicans were evaluated by light microscopy on slides stained with Giemsa. Cytological examination in the treatment group revealed that C. albicans blastospores were phagocytosed and morphological changes occurred in hemocytes. Our results indicated that the essential oil of both samples showed strong antifungal activities against planktonic and biofilm-forming C. albicans cells and also had an influence on putative virulence factors (germ-tube formation and its length and on CSH).
The Biodiversity of the Genus Dictyota: Phytochemical and Pharmacological Natural Products Prospectives
Authors: Rushdi Mohammed I. , Abdel-Rahman Iman A. M. , Attia Eman Zekry , Saber Hani , Saber Abdullah A. , Bringmann Gerhard , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan
Published: January 2022

Although a broad variety of classes of bioactive compounds have already been isolated from seaweeds of the genus Dictyota, most different species are still chemically and biologically unexplored. Dictyota species are well-known brown seaweeds belonging to the Dictyotaceae (Phaeophyta). The phytochemical composition within the genus Dictyota has recently received considerable interest, and a vast array of components, including diterpenes, sesquiterepenes, sterols, amino acids, as well as saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, have been characterized. The contribution of these valued metabolites to the biological potential, which includes anti-proliferative, anti-microbial, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hyperpigmentation activities, of the genus Dictyota has also been explored. Therefore, this is the most comprehensive review, focusing on the published literature relevant to the chemically and pharmacologically diverse biopharmaceuticals isolated from different species of the genus Dictyota during the period from 1976 to now.
New Fully Automated Preparation of High Apparent Molar Activity 68Ga-FAPI-46 on a Trasis AiO Platform
Authors: Da Pieve Chiara , Costa Braga Marta , Turton David R. , Valla Frank A. , Cakmak Pinar , Plate Karl-Heinz , Kramer-Marek Gabriela
Published: January 2022

A large number of applications for fibroblast activation protein inhibitors (FAPI)-based PET agents have been evaluated in conditions ranging from cancer to non-malignant diseases such as myocardial infarction. In particular, 68Ga-FAPI-46 was reported to have a high specificity and affinity for FAP-expressing cells, a fast and high accumulation in tumor lesions/injuries together with a fast body clearance when investigated in vivo. Due to the increasing interest in the use of the agent both preclinically and clinically, we developed an automated synthesis for the production of 68Ga-FAPI-46 on a Trasis AiO platform. The new synthetic procedure, which included the processing of the generator eluate using a strong cation exchange resin and a final purification step through an HLB followed by a QMA cartridge, yielded 68Ga-FAPI-46 with high radiochemical purity (>98%) and apparent molar activity (271.1 ± 105.6 MBq/nmol). Additionally, the in vitro and in vivo properties of the product were assessed on glioblastoma cells and mouse model. Although developed for the preparation of 68Ga-FAPI-46 for preclinical use, our method can be adapted for clinical production as a reliable alternative to the manual (i.e., cold kit) or modular systems preparations already described in the literature.
Anti-Obesity Potential of Ponciri Fructus: Effects of Extracts, Fractions and Compounds on Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes
Authors: Lamichhane Gopal , Pandeya Prakash Raj , Lamichhane Ramakanta , Rhee Su-jin , Devkota Hari Prasad , Jung Hyun-Ju
Published: January 2022

Background: Ponciri Fructus, a crude drug consisting of the dried immature fruits of Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf., is a popular folk medicine used for the treatment of allergy and gastrointestinal disorders in Korea and China. In this study, the anti-adipogenic activity of extracts and isolated compounds were evaluated using 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Methods: Dried immature fruits were extracted and fractionated into n-hexane, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), n-butanol and water-soluble fractions. The ethanol extract and fractions were tested for anti-adipogenic activity in the 3T3-L1 cell line. The active fractions (n-hexane and EtOAc fractions) were further subjected to chromatographic techniques to isolate and identify active compounds. Furthermore, the isolated compounds were evaluated for their anti-adipogenic activity. Results: Altogether, seven compounds, including two flavonoids, one phytosteroid and four coumarin derivatives, were isolated. Ethanol extract, n-hexane fraction, EtOAc fraction and three isolated compounds (phellopterin, oxypeucedanin and poncirin) showed significant anti-adipogenic activity as observed by reduced lipid deposition in differentiated 3T3-L1 cells. Further, oxypeucedanin downregulated the key adipogenic markers, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors proteins γ (PPAR-γ), sterol response element binding proteins-1 (SREBP-1), CCAAT/enhancer binding proteins-α (C/EBP-α), adipocyte-specific lipid binding proteins (FABP-4), adipocyte fatty acid binding proteins (aP2), lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and leptin. Conclusion: This study indicated that the ethanol extract, hexane fraction and ethyl acetate fraction of P. trifoliata fruits possess strong anti-adipogenic activity, containing the active compounds such as phellopterin, oxypeucedanin and poncirin. Further research is recommended to explore their efficacy and safety in animal and clinical models.
Structural Diversity of Silver Fluorinated β-Diketonates: Effect of the Terminal Substituent and Solvent
Authors: Vikulova Evgeniia S. , Sukhikh Taisiya S. , Gulyaev Sergey A. , Ilyin Igor Yu. , Morozova Natalia B.
Published: January 2022

In order to demonstrate the role of the fluorination and some solvents in the structural organization of the Ag(I) coordination polymers with β-diketonate ligands (R1C(O)CαHC(O)R2)− we synthesized a series of the compounds containing tfac- (R1 = CH3, R2 = CF3) and pfpac- (R1 = CH3, R2 = C2F5) anions. Solvent-free [Ag(L)]∞ (L = tfac 1, pfpac 2) compounds and the corresponding acetonitrile and toluene adducts have been characterized by elemental analysis and/or NMR, IR and single-crystal XRD. This series includes five new coordination polymers. Compound 1 is a 3D coordination framework based on Ag–Ochelate/bridge, Ag–Cα bonds, and argentophilic interactions. An increase in the fluorinated group leads to a chain coordination polymer 2 of an unusual structural organization. These chains can be represented as a “DNA-type”, where two intertwined helices based on Ag–Ochelate and Ag–Cα bonds are connected through Ag–Obridge ones. Two structural types of chain coordination polymers, [Ag(tfac)(CH3CN)] and [Ag2(L)2(solvent)], have been revealed for the adducts. The latter structural type differs significantly from the previously studied toluene and acetonitrile adducts of fluorinated Ag(I) β-diketonates of the same stoichiometry. Thermal analysis in helium showed that both 1 and 2 decompose to metallic silver with the compound of pfpac-ligand being slightly more stable.
Characterization, Large-Scale HSCCC Separation and Neuroprotective Effects of Polyphenols from Moringa oleifera Leaves
Authors: Gao Qian , Wei Zongmin , Liu Yun , Wang Fang , Zhang Shuting , Serrano Carmo , Li Lingxi , Sun Baoshan
Published: January 2022

Moringa oleifera leaves have been widely used for the treatment of inflammation, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other diseases, due to being rich in polyphenols. The main objective of this work was to largely separate the main polyphenols from Moringa oleifera leaves using the technique of high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC). The phenolic composition in Moringa oleifera leaves was first analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively by UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS and UPLC-QqQ/MS, respectively, indicating that quercetin and kaempferol derivatives, phenolic acid and apigenin are the main polyphenols in Moringa oleifera leaves, with quercetin and kaempferol derivatives predominating. Furthermore, the conditions of HSCCC for large-scale separation of polyphenols from Moringa oleifera leaves were optimized, which included the selection of the solvent system, flow rate and the sample load. Only by one-step HSCCC separation (within 120 min) under the optimized conditions, six quercetin and kaempferol derivatives, a phenolic acid and an apigenin could be individually isolated at a large scale (yield from 10% to 98%), each of which possessed high purity. Finally, the isolated polyphenols and phenolic extract from Moringa oleifera leaves (MLPE) were verified to have strong neuroprotective activities against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in PC-12 cells, suggesting that these compounds would contribute to the main beneficial effects of Moringa oleifera leaves.
Superfluorescence of Sub-Band States in C-Plane In0.1Ga0.9N/GaN Multiple-QWs
Authors: Ding Cairong , Lv Zesheng , Zeng Xueran , Zhang Baijun
Published: January 2022

Superfluorescence is a collective emission from quantum coherent emitters due to quantum fluctuations. This is characterized by the existence of the delay time (τD) for the emitters coupling and phase-synchronizing to each other spontaneously. Here we report the observation of superfluorescence in c-plane In0.1Ga0.9N/GaN multiple-quantum wells by time-integrated and time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy under higher excitation fluences of the 267 nm laser and at room temperature, showing a characteristic τD from 79 ps to 62 ps and the ultrafast radiative decay (7.5 ps) after a burst of photons. Time-resolved traces present a small quantum oscillation from coupled In0.1Ga0.9N/GaN multiple-quantum wells. The superfluorescence is attributed to the radiative recombination of coherent emitters distributing on strongly localized subband states, Ee1→Ehh1 or Ee1→Elh1 in 3nm width multiple-quantum wells. Our work paves the way for deepening the understanding of the emission mechanism in the In0.1Ga0.9N/GaN quantum well at a higher injected carrier density.
Formulation of Rosemary Extracts through Spray-Drying Encapsulation or Emulsification
Authors: Kanakidi Lamprini-Danai , Tsimogiannis Dimitrios , Kiokias Sotirios , Oreopoulou Vassiliki
Published: January 2022

Natural, plant-derived antioxidants can be used to prolong the shelf life of food or cosmetics, or as health-promoting additives. Although their extraction from plants has been extensively studied, purification and formulation processes need further research to allow their exploitation. In the present work, rosemary extracts were obtained by successive extractions with acetone and water or single extraction by either an acetone:water or ethanol:water mixture. The extracts were analyzed by HPLC-DAD, and rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, carnosol, and several flavonoids were identified and quantified. The extracts obtained by water or aqueous mixtures of organic solvents were encapsulated in maltodextrin combined with gum arabic with a high encapsulation yield (90–100%) and efficiency (97%) for rosmarinic acid and flavonoids. The acetone extract, rich in carnosic acid, was transformed to oil solution and either encapsulated or formulated in emulsion. The shelf life of encapsulated products was tested over a period of six months, and the results showed high retention of rosmarinic acid (88%) and lower of flavonoids (54–80%). Carnosic acid presented lower retention either encapsulated in solid powder (65–70% after one month at ambient temperature) or in emulsion (48% after 20 days of storage at 15 °C), while it was partially transformed to carnosol.
A Review of Current and New Optical Techniques for Coral Monitoring
Authors: Teague Jonathan , Megson-Smith David A. , Allen Michael J. , Day John C.C. , Scott Thomas B.
Published: January 2022

Monitoring the health of coral reefs is essential to understanding the damaging impacts of anthropogenic climate change as such non-invasive methods to survey coral reefs are the most desirable. Optics-based surveys, ranging from simple photography to multispectral satellite imaging are well established. Herein, we review these techniques, focusing on their value for coral monitoring and health diagnosis. The techniques are broadly separated by the primary method in which data are collected: by divers and/or robots directly within the environment or by remote sensing where data are captured above the water’s surface by planes, drones, or satellites. The review outlines a new emerging technology, low-cost hyperspectral imagery, which is capable of simultaneously producing hyperspectral and photogrammetric outputs, thereby providing integrated information of the reef structure and physiology in a single data capture.
Determining Pitch-Angle Diffusion Coefficients for Electrons in Whistler Turbulence
Authors: Spanier Felix , Schreiner Cedric , Schlickeiser Reinhard
Published: January 2022

Transport of energetic electrons in the heliosphere is governed by resonant interaction with plasma waves, for electrons with sub-GeV kinetic energies specifically with dispersive modes in the whistler regime. In this paper, particle-in-cell simulations of kinetic turbulence with test-particle electrons are performed. The pitch-angle diffusion coefficients of these test particles are analyzed and compared to an analytical model for left-handed and right-handed polarized wave modes.
Early Citizen Science Action in Ethnobotany: The Case of the Folk Medicine Collection of Dr. Mihkel Ostrov in the Territory of Present-Day Estonia, 1891–1893
Authors: Kalle Raivo , Pieroni Andrea , Svanberg Ingvar , Sõukand Renata
Published: January 2022

Presently, collecting data through citizen science (CS) is increasingly being used in botanical, zoological and other studies. However, until now, ethnobotanical studies have underused CS data collection methods. This study analyses the results of the appeal organized by the physician Dr. Mihkel Ostrov (1863–1940), which can be considered the first-ever internationally known systematic example of ethnopharmacological data collection involving citizens. We aim to understand what factors enhanced or diminished the success of the collaboration between Ostrov and the citizens of that time. The reliability of Ostrov’s collection was enhanced by the herbarium specimens (now missing) used in the identification of vernacular names. The collection describes the use of 65 species from 27 genera. The timing of its collection coincided with not only a national awakening and recently obtained high level of literacy but also the activation of civil society, people’s awareness of the need to collect folklore, the voluntary willingness of newspapers to provide publishing space and later to collect data, and the use of a survey method focusing on a narrow topic. While Ostrov’s only means of communication with the public was through newspapers, today, with electronic options, social media can also be used.
Enhancement of Green Tires Performance through Ultrasound-Assisted Mixing
Authors: Cheng Yaohua , Wang Qianting
Published: January 2022

Combined with the traditional internal mixing process, a custom-built ultrasonic generator was introduced in this study. The effect of ultrasonic parameters on the comprehensive performance of tread rubber formulations was investigated. Compared to the traditional mixing process without ultrasonic wave loading, the introduction of ultrasonic enhanced the dispersion and distribution of composite particles in the rubber matrix and improved the overall performance of rubber products. The devil’s triangle relationship among the rolling resistance, wet skid resistance, and abrasion resistance of tires was improved. When the wet skid resistance was slightly lost, the rolling resistance and wear rate were effectively reduced. This study provides new insights into a strategy for optimizing the mixing process of the traditional internal mixer, reducing vehicle emissions, extending the service life of tires, and promoting the development of green tires.
Structure and Conformation Study of the O-Antigen from the Lipopolysaccharide of Cupriavidus Metallidurans CH34
Authors: Notaro Anna , Vanacore Adele , Molinaro Antonio , Speciale Immacolata , De Castro Cristina
Published: January 2022

Cupriavidus metallidurans is a Gram-negative bacterium that has attracted the attention of the scientific community since its discovery back in 1976. It was initially studied as a model organism for bioremediation processes due to its ability to survive in heavy metal-rich environments. However, in recent years, there is evidence that this bacterium can be a potential pathogen for humans. How C. metallidurans can survive in such different environments is unknown and prompted the following work. Its great adaptability could be explained by the structural and conformational studies of the O-antigen portion of the lipopolysaccharide, the main constituent of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, which is the one in direct contact with the external environment. Therefore, a combination of chemical and spectroscopic analyses was used to define the O-antigen structure, disclosing that it is a polysaccharide constituted of a linear tetrasaccharide repeating unit that does not resemble other structures already reported for bacteria: [4)-α-d-GalNAc-(1→3)-α-d-Qui2NAc4NHBA-(1→3)-α-l-Rha-(1→3)-α-l-Rha-(1→]. Interestingly, the molecular dynamics studies revealed that the three-dimensional structure of the O-antigen is highly flexible: it might adopt three different right-handed helix conformations described by a two, three, or four-fold symmetry. This conformational behavior could represent the reason behind the survival of C. metallidurans in different environments.
Vehicle Dynamics Endured by Patients during Emergency Evacuation—Ambulance versus Helicopter
Authors: Serre Thierry , Naude Claire , Fournier Marc
Published: January 2022

In the event of a road accident, a quick intervention is crucial. The mobile emergency services take care of patients whose condition requires an emergency repatriation to a hospital, by land in an ambulance or by air in a helicopter. The main criteria for choosing the means of transport are the time required for repatriation and the patient’s more or less critical state of health. Do the vehicle dynamic effects endured by the transported patient have an influence on their health condition? Vehicle dynamics data were recorded with a road data recorder for a period of 3 months, under real conditions of patient repatriation to a hospital; 39 trips were recorded by ambulance and 29 trips by helicopter. Significant differences in speed (average 42 versus 202 km/h) and distance travelled (average 23 versus 85 km) were observed. The sustained effects are similar in helicopters and ambulances. The ambulance causes more abrupt variations in longitudinal and transversal directions, whereas the helicopter has more variations in vertical direction. The vibration level in helicopters is higher than in ambulances. These results can be considered as a first reference baseline for establishing a characterization of transported patients’ exposure to vehicle dynamics.
COVID-19 Point Blank: Language, Migration, and the Pandemic as a Political Issue
Authors: Veikou Mariangela
Published: January 2022

The current pandemic is sustained in dichotomies and distancing, as most of us awkwardly have recently experienced. Moreover, COVID-19 has definitely put the spotlight on social inequalities that are underpinning our society and it has highlighted the escalation of the state surveillance capability and new forms of oppression too. The discrimination ingrained in our societies, built on a historically defined regime of racialized oppression and structural disadvantage of racialized citizens and migrants, was produced well before the coronavirus, but it is now casting a different shade, reinforcing forms of exclusions, highlighting the pandemic as a political issue. Hence, this paper addresses a range of political perspectives of the lived experiences in and through social space with examples of narratives in language which capture the everyday political experiences of the pandemic within Europe. The kind of language used and its profound effect on the growing discourse regarding COVID-19 is the main focus in this paper. I here explore the intertwining of language and politics during the pandemic and bring out the countervailing narratives that seem to be in constant tension. I then ask where this takes us, not only in terms of scholarship and expansion of knowledge, but also with a pragmatic edge to it, trying to figure out how is it possible for us to achieve some sort of cognitive shift in our approach in order to learn from this challenge and from this new perspective. Methodologically, as well as looking at existing data, references to attitudes in general are made. A theoretical discussion on migration and language, and the kind of intersection between them, is offered, from the point of view of critical theory, before pointing to the metaphors used, the implications they allow, and how all these fit together, in the form of a concluding discussion. Metaphor or not, the power of language in its ramifications of articulations about the pandemic and the idea of distance underlines COVID-19 as a deeply political issue.
Responses to COVID-19 Social and Economic Impacts: A Comparative Analysis in Southern European Countries
Authors: Casquilho-Martins Inês , Belchior-Rocha Helena
Published: January 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic globally affected European societies. This new crisis arrived after a period of gradual recovery from the 2008 financial crisis that had jeopardized the achievement of Europe Strategy 2020 (ES2020) targets. The need to recover for the Southern European countries, which had austerity programs during the financial crisis, is crucial to ensure a continuum of economic and social development. This study aims to analyze the impact of the two last international crises on the accomplishment of ES2020 goals and how the ‘NextGenerationEU’ program presents a mechanism to recover from the pandemic’s socioeconomic impacts. We analyzed secondary statistical data from Eurostat and official European documents. Additionally, we carried out a systematic analysis of 162 measures of the recovery and resilience plan from Southern European countries (Greece, Spain, Italy, and Portugal). The results showed that ES2020 targets were at risk, particularly in the field of employment, combating poverty, and social exclusion. Currently, there is strong European investment in response to the socioeconomic impacts of the pandemic, with all countries defining measures adjusted to protect the most vulnerable groups. However, the implications of these responses require a political commitment for them to effectively contribute to sustainable recovery and development.
COVID-19, Gender Housework Division and Municipality Size in Spain
Authors: Roig Rosa , Aybar Cristina , Pavía Jose M.
Published: January 2022

The COVID-19 health crisis brought with it an increase in the workload on family members due to the restriction of services and the suspension of formal and informal care networks. Numerous studies have analyzed how home confinement have affected different gender gaps, including the gender gap related to chores within the home. This research aims to contribute to the existing literature from the perspective of gender geography by introducing the variable municipality size in the analyses. Our research in the case of Spain shows the COVID-19 health crisis to have had a significant impact on gender gaps, albeit to varying degrees. Women, especially those living in small municipalities, experienced a widening of the gap related to care and domestic workload during confinement. The study of the distribution of the more burdensome chores between genders shows an even more imbalanced scenario to the detriment of women. However, following the end of confinement, the situation improved. Although the imbalance against women remains, the gap with respect to the pre-pandemic situation has been reduced.