bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Open-Label Trial Study of Quality-of-Life Assessment in Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Their Treatment
Authors: Alexandru Bogdana Ariana , Rat Lavinia Alina , Moldovan Andrada Florina , Mihancea Petru , Mariș Lavinia
Published: June 2022

Background and objectives: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) does not only have a complex pathophysiological evolution with central and peripheral mechanisms. This study aimed to monitor the neuropsychiatric part of IBS and its management, following the quality of life of patients with IBS. Materials and Methods: Participants numbering 145 were investigated in this study for 6 months and were divided into four groups, namely the control group with a symptomatic period of less than 6 months (n = 34), the group with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS; n = 58), IBS and neuropsychiatric treatment (n = 32), and IBS with probiotic treatment (n = 22). Clinical and paraclinical analyses as well as quality of life were monitored by domestic and international psychological questionnaires. Results: It was observed that, in patients with pro-longed symptoms, neuropsychiatric impairment occurred more frequently, and both clinical and paraclinical analyses improved significantly (p < 0.05) more so in those with complex allopathic treatment and in those with probiotic treatment. There were no significant differences between the two research groups. Conclusions: It has been shown that the neuropsychological component of IBS plays an important role in its treatment, and modern probation therapy can achieve similar results to those of neuropsychiatry. This also requires further studies to ensure the best combination in the approach to IBS.
Special Issue “Diagnosis and Management of Dry Eye Disease and Ocular Surface Inflammation”
Authors: Giannaccare Giuseppe , Di Zazzo Antonio
Published: June 2022

It is estimated that a wide proportion of the world’s population (5% to 50%) may suffer from dry eye disease to a various extent [...]
Environmental Failure Behavior Analysis of 7085 High Strength Aluminum Alloy under High Temperature and High Humidity
Authors: Yang Xiao , Zhang Xianfeng , Liu Yan , Li Xuefeng , Chen Jieming , Zhang Xinyao , Gao Lingqing
Published: June 2022

High-strength aluminum alloys are exposed to more and more environmentally-induced cracking failure behaviors during service. However, due to the hard to detect nature of hydrogen, and the special working conditions, failure research has obvious hysteresis and complexity, and it is impossible to truly reflect the material failure phenomenon and mechanism. In this paper, 7085 high-strength aluminum alloy is selected as the research material to simulate and reproduce the environmental failure phenomenon of aircraft under extreme working conditions (temperature 70 °C, humidity 85%). The results proved that high-strength aluminum alloy has environmental cracking failure behavior under extreme working conditions. The failure mode that was determined was due to environment-induced hydrogen and hydrogen-induced cracking, which is the result of the combined action of hydrogen and stress. Meanwhile, we demonstrate that high-strength aluminum alloy’s environmental failure behavior in an environment of high temperature and high humidity is different from traditional stress corrosion cracking behavior.
Influence of Tool and Welding Parameters on the Risk of Wormhole Defect in Aluminum Magnesium Alloy Welded by Bobbin Tool FSW
Authors: Pecanac Milan , Zlatanovic Danka Labus , Kulundzic Nenad , Dramicanin Miroslav , Lanc Zorana , Hadzistević Miodrag , Radisic Slobodan , Balos Sebastian
Published: June 2022

Bobbin tool friction stir welding (BTFSW) utilizes a special tool that possesses two shoulders interconnected by a pin instead of one: the top shoulder and the pin in the conventional FSW tool. This greatly simplifies the kinematics in the otherwise complicated setup of FSW since the bottom shoulder forms the bottom surface of the weld, without the need for a backing plate. Moreover, the tool enters the base metal sideways and travels, forming the joint in a straight line while rotating, without the need for downward and upward motion at the beginning and end of the process. This paper presents a study on the BTFSW tool geometry and parameters on the risk of wormhole defect formation in the AA5005 aluminum–magnesium alloy and the wormhole effect on mechanical properties. It was shown that higher stress imposed by the tool geometry on the joint has a significant influence on heating, an effect similar to the increased rotational speed. Optimal kinematic and geometrical tool properties are required to avoid wormhole defects. Although weld tensile strengths were lower (between ~111 and 115 MPa) compared with a base metal (137 MPa), the ductile fracture was obtained. Furthermore, all welds had a higher impact strength (between ~20.7 and 27.8 J) compared with the base material (~18.5 J); it was found that the wormhole defect only marginally influences the mechanical properties of welds.
Effect of Temperature on Corrosion Behavior of Laser-Remelted CrFeCoNi Coating
Authors: Wang Caimei , Yu Yang , Shao Minghao , Zhang Hua
Published: June 2022

The CrFeCoNi coating was fabricated by the laser remelting method. The microstructure of the coating was detected. The corrosion behavior of coating at different temperatures was investigated by electrochemical measurements. Potentiodynamic polarization test results indicated that the corrosion current density increased with the increase in corrosion solution temperature in 3.5 wt% NaCl and 0.5 mol/L H2SO4 solutions, suggesting that the CrFeCoNi coating exhibited higher resistance to corrosion attack at lower solution temperature. The breakdown potential of the CrFeCoNi coating exhibited a decreasing trend with increasing solution temperature in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. This indicated that the passive film formed at low temperatures had higher stability. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy test indicated that the CrFeCoNi coating possessed higher charge transfer resistance at lower solution temperatures. The corrosion mechanisms of the coating at different temperatures were also revealed.
Gene Silencing through CRISPR Interference in Mycoplasmas
Authors: Evsyutina Daria V. , Fisunov Gleb Y. , Pobeguts Olga V. , Kovalchuk Sergey I. , Govorun Vadim M.
Published: June 2022

Mycoplasmas are pathogenic, genome-reduced bacteria. The development of such fields of science as system and synthetic biology is closely associated with them. Despite intensive research of different representatives of this genus, genetic manipulations remain challenging in mycoplasmas. Here we demonstrate a single-plasmid transposon-based CRISPRi system for the repression of gene expression in mycoplasmas. We show that selected expression determinants provide a level of dCas9 that does not lead to a significant slow-down of mycoplasma growth. For the first time we describe the proteomic response of genome-reduced bacteria to the expression of exogenous dcas9. The functionality of the resulting vector is confirmed by targeting the three genes coding transcription factors-fur, essential spxA, whiA, and histone-like protein hup1 in Mycoplasma gallisepticum. As a result, the expression level of each gene was decreased tenfold and influenced the mRNA level of predicted targets of transcription factors. To illustrate the versatility of this vector, we performed a knockdown of metabolic genes in a representative member of another cluster of the Mycoplasma genus-Mycoplasma hominis. The developed CRISPRi system is a powerful tool to discover the functioning of genes that are essential, decipher regulatory networks and that can help to identify novel drug targets to control Mycoplasma infections.
Medium for the Production of Bacillus-Based Biocontrol Agent Effective against Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus: Dual Approach for Modelling and Optimization
Authors: Vlajkov Vanja , Anđelić Stefan , Pajčin Ivana , Grahovac Mila , Budakov Dragana , Jokić Aleksandar , Grahovac Jovana
Published: June 2022

One of the leading limiting factors for wider industrial production and commercialization of microbial biopesticides refers to the high costs of cultivation media. The selection of alternative sources of macronutrients crucial for the growth and metabolic activity of the producing microorganism is a necessary phase of the bioprocess development. Gaining a better understanding of the influence of the medium composition on the biotechnological production of biocontrol agents is enabled through bioprocess modelling and optimization. In the present study, after the selection of optimal carbon and nitrogen sources, two modelling approaches were applied to mathematically describe the behavior of the examined bioprocess—the production of biocontrol agents effective against aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus strains. The modelling was performed using four independent variables: cellulose, urea, ammonium sulfate and dipotassium phosphate, and the selected response was the inhibition-zone diameter. After the comparison of the results generated by the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) approach, the first model was chosen for the further optimization step due to the better fit of the experimental results. As the final investigation step, the optimal cultivation medium composition was defined (g/L): cellulose 5.0, ammonium sulfate 3.77, dipotassium phosphate 0.3, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate 0.3.
Mechanical Properties and Acoustic Emission Characteristics of Unloading Instability of Sandstone under High Stress
Authors: Hou Zhiyuan , Xiao Fukun , Liu Gang , Bashkov Oleg Viktorovich , Lyu Lan
Published: June 2022

In order to analyze the law of unloading instability of deep rock mass, the unloading experiment of sandstone under different confining pressures was carried out, and the mechanical properties and acoustic emission characteristics of sandstone unloading failure under high stress were obtained. The results demonstrate that before unloading, the sandstone under low stress shows compression and elastic deformation, whereas that under high stress shows elastic deformation and plastic deformation. Moreover, the unloading behavior of sandstone under low stress is ductile, whereas that under high stress is brittle. Poisson’s ratio and elastic modulus have negative and positive correlation with initial confining pressure, respectively. During unloading, the higher the initial confining pressure is, the earlier the rock sample damage occurs. Prior to the accelerated damage stage, the unloading amount and AE cumulative count are inversely proportional and directly proportional to the initial confining pressure, respectively. The simultaneous occurrence of UHF, HF, MF, and LF in the AE power spectrum, as well as a steep increase in fractal dimension followed by a decrease, can be used as precursors to unloading instability in sandstone.
Molecular Dynamic Study of Mechanism Underlying Nature of Molecular Recognition and the Role of Crosslinker in the Synthesis of Salmeterol-Targeting Molecularly Imprinted Polymer for Analysis of Salmeterol Xinafoate in Biological Fluid
Authors: Suryana Shendi , Mutakin Mutakin , Rosandi Yudi , Hasanah Aliya Nur
Published: June 2022

The rational preparation of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) in order to have selective extraction of salmeterol xinafoate (SLX) from serum was studied. SLX is an acting β-adrenergic receptor agonist used in the treatment of asthma and has an athletic performance-enhancing effect. Molecular dynamics were used for the simulation of the SLX-imprinted pre-polymerization system, to determine the stability of the system. The computational simulation showed that SLX as a template, 4-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) as a monomer, and trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TRIM) as a crosslinker in mol ratio of 1:6:20 had the strongest interaction in terms of the radial distribution functional. To validate the computational result, four polymers were synthesized using the precipitation polymerization method, and MIP with composition and ratio corresponding with the system with the strongest interaction as an MD simulation result showed the best performance, with a recovery of 96.59 ± 2.24% of SLX in spiked serum and 92.25 ± 1.12% when SLX was spiked with another analogue structure. Compared with the standard solid phase extraction sorbent C-18, which had a recovery of 79.11 ± 2.96%, the MIP showed better performance. The harmony between the simulation and experimental results illustrates that the molecular dynamic simulations had a significant role in the study and development of the MIPs for analysis of SLX in biological fluid.
Methods of Betulin Extraction from Birch Bark
Authors: Demets Olga V. , Takibayeva Altynaray T. , Kassenov Rymchan Z. , Aliyeva Madina R.
Published: June 2022

Betulin is the most popular of the known triterpenoids of the lupan series. It has valuable pharmacological properties. It exhibits antibacterial, antiviral, antitumor, hypolipidemic and other types of activity. The prospects of using betulin in medicine, pharmacology, and veterinary medicine require the development of effective methods for obtaining it from waste from the woodworking industry. Therefore, the question arises of the need to develop a technology for isolating and purifying triterpenoids from birch bark in large quantities. This review contains a variety of methods for the isolation of betulin. The advantages and disadvantages of the proposed methods are described. The following methods are considered: vacuum sublimation after preliminary alkaline; vacuum pyrolysis; supercritical extraction with carbon dioxide or mixtures of carbon dioxide with various solvents; extraction with organic solvents. Also, the method of microwave is described, it is activation on the example of the Kyrgyz birch (Betula kirghisorum), this is an endemic species that has not been studied before, growing on the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Synthesis and Antiproliferative Activity of Novel Dehydroabietic Acid-Chalcone Hybrids
Authors: Grigoropoulou Sophia , Manou Dimitra , Antoniou Antonia I. , Tsirogianni Artemis , Siciliano Carlo , Theocharis Achilleas D. , Athanassopoulos Constantinos M.
Published: June 2022

Dehydroabietic Acid (DHA, 1) derivatives are known for their antiproliferative properties, among others. In the context of this work, DHA was initially modified to two key intermediates bearing a C18 methyl ester, a phenol moiety at C12, and an acetyl or formyl group at C13 position. These derivatives allowed us to synthesize a series of DHA-chalcone hybrids, suitable for structure–activity relationship studies (SARS), following their condensation with a variety of aryl-aldehydes and methyl ketones. The antiproliferative evaluation of the synthesized DHA-chalcone hybrids against three breast cancer cell lines (the estrogen-dependent MCF-7 and the estrogen-independent MDA-MB-231 and Hs578T) showed that eight derivatives (33, 35, 37, 38, 39, 41, 43, 44) exhibit low micromolar activity levels (IC50 2.21–11.5 μΜ/MCF-7). For instance, some of them showed better activity compared to the commercial anticancer drug 5-FU against MCF-7 cells (33, 41, 43, 44) and against MDA-MB231 (33 and 41). Hybrid 38 is a promising lead compound for the treatment of MCF-7 breast cancer, exhibiting comparable activity to 5-FU and being 12.9 times less toxic (SI = 22.7). Thus, our findings suggest that DHA-chalcone hybrids are drug candidates worth pursuing for further development in the search for novel breast cancer therapies.
Exploring the Synthetic Potential of γ-Lactam Derivatives Obtained from a Multicomponent Reaction—Applications as Antiproliferative Agents
Authors: López-Francés Adrián , del Corte Xabier , Serna-Burgos Zuriñe , Martínez de Marigorta Edorta , Palacios Francisco , Vicario Javier
Published: June 2022

A study on the reactivity of 3-amino α,β-unsaturated γ-lactam derivatives obtained from a multicomponent reaction is presented. Key features of the substrates are the presence of an endocyclic α,β-unsaturated amide moiety and an enamine functionality. Following different synthetic protocols, the functionalization at three different positions of the lactam core is achieved. In the presence of a soft base, under thermodynamic conditions, the functionalization at C-4 takes place where the substrates behave as enamines, while the use of a strong base, under kinetic conditions, leads to the formation of C-5-functionalized γ-lactams, in the presence of ethyl glyoxalate, through a highly diastereoselective vinylogous aldol reaction. Moreover, the nucleophilic addition of organometallic species allows the functionalization at C-3, through the imine tautomer, affording γ-lactams bearing tetrasubstituted stereocenters, where the substrates act as imine electrophiles. Taking into account the advantage of the presence of a chiral stereocenter in C-5 substituted γ-lactams, further diastereoselective transformations are also explored, leading to novel bicyclic substrates holding a fused γ and δ-lactam skeleton. Remarkably, an example of a highly stereoselective formal [3+3] cycloaddition reaction of chiral γ-lactam substrates is reported for the synthesis of 1,4-dihidropyridines, where a non-covalent attractive interaction of a carbonyl group with an electron-deficient arene seems to drive the stereoselectivity of the reaction to the exclusive formation of the cis isomer. In order to unambiguously determine the substitution pattern resulting from the diverse reactions, an extensive characterization of the substrates is detailed through 2D NMR and/or X-ray experiments. Likewise, applications of the substrates as antiproliferative agents against lung and ovarian cancer cells are also described.
Poria Acid, Triterpenoids Extracted from Poria cocos, Inhibits the Invasion and Metastasis of Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Wang Haibo , Luo Yuanyuan , Chu Zewen , Ni Tengyang , Ou Shiya , Dai Xiaojun , Zhang Xiaochun , Liu Yanqing
Published: June 2022

Background: Poria cocos (P. cocos) is an important medicinal fungus in traditional Chinese medicine. Poria acid (PA), a triterpenoid compound, is an effective component of traditional Chinese medicine P. cocos. This experiment investigated the anti-gastric cancer biological activity of PA in vitro. Methods: The effect of PA on the viability of gastric cancer cells was detected by the thiazolyl blue (MTT) assay. Cell adhesion assays were used to detect changes in the adhesion of cells treated after PA (0, 20, 40, and 80 µmol/L). The ability of cell invasion and migration were detected by Transwell assays and wound healing assays. A high-content imaging system was used to dynamically record the motility of the gastric cancer cells after PA (0, 20, 40, and 80 µmol/L) treatment. Western blotting was used to detect the expression of epithelial–mesenchymal transformation (EMT), invasion and migration related proteins. Results: The MTT assay showed that the proliferation of gastric cancer cells was significantly inhibited after PA treatment. Cell adhesion experiments showed that the adhesion of gastric cancer cells was significantly decreased after PA treatment. Compared with the control group, the wound healing area of the gastric cancer cells treated with different concentrations of PA decreased. The Transwell assay showed that the number of gastric cancer cells passing through the cell membrane were significantly reduced after PA treatment. In addition, after PA treatment, the cells’ movement distance and average movement speed were significantly lower than those of the control group. Finally, PA can significantly alter the expression of EMT-related proteins E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and Vimentin and decreased the expressions of metastasis-related proteins matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2, MMP-9 and tissue inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP)1 in the gastric cancer cells. Conclusions: Triterpenoids from P. cocos have significant biological activity against gastric cancer, and the mechanism may be involved in the process of epithelial–mesenchymal transformation.
Antimicrobial Activity of Dihydroisocoumarin Isolated from Wadi Lajab Sediment-Derived Fungus Penicillium chrysogenum: In Vitro and In Silico Study
Authors: Orfali Raha , Perveen Shagufta , AlAjmI Mohamed Fahad , Ghaffar Safina , Rehman Md Tabish , AlanzI Abdullah R. , Gamea Saja Bane , Essa Khwayri Mona
Published: June 2022

Antibiotic resistance is considered a major health concern globally. It is a fact that the clinical need for new antibiotics was not achieved until now. One of the most commonly prescribed classes of antibiotics is β-Lactam antibiotics. However, most bacteria have developed resistance against β-Lactams by producing enzymes β-Lactamase or penicillinase. The discovery of new β-Lactamase inhibitors as new antibiotics or antibiotic adjuvants is essential to avoid future catastrophic pandemics. In this study, five dihydroisocoumarin: 6-methoxy mellein (1); 5,6-dihydroxymellein (2); 6-hydroxymellein (3); 4-chloro-6-hydroxymellein (4) and 4-chloro-5,6-di-hydroxymellein (5) were isolated from Wadi Lajab sediment-derived fungus Penicillium chrysogenum, located 15 km northwest of Jazan, KSA. The elucidation of the chemical structures of the isolated compounds was performed by analysis of their NMR, MS. Compounds 1–5 were tested for antibacterial activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. All of the compounds exhibited selective antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus licheniformis except compound 3. The chloro-dihydroisocoumarin derivative, compound 4, showed potential antimicrobial activities against all of the tested strains with the MIC value between 0.8–5.3 μg/mL followed by compound 5, which exhibited a moderate inhibitory effect. Molecular docking data showed good affinity with the isolated compounds to β-Lactamase enzymes of bacteria; NDM-1, CTX-M, OXA-48. This work provides an effective strategy for compounds to inhibit bacterial growth or overcome bacterial resistance.
New Advances in Short Peptides: Looking Forward
Authors: Apostolopoulos Vasso , Bojarska Joanna , Chai Tsun-Thai , Feehan Jack , Kaczmarek Krzysztof , Matsoukas John M. , Paredes Lopez Octavio , Saviano Michele , Skwarczynski Mariusz , Smith-Carpenter Jillian , Venanzi Mariano , Wolf Wojciech M. , Zielenkiewicz Piotr , Ziora Zyta M.
Published: June 2022

It is beyond doubt that short peptides hold significant promise in bio-medicine, as the most versatile molecules, both structurally and functionally [...]
Formation of GeO2 under Graphene on Ge(001)/Si(001) Substrates Using Water Vapor
Authors: Dumiszewska Ewa , Ciepielewski Paweł , Caban Piotr A. , Jóźwik Iwona , Gaca Jaroslaw , Baranowski Jacek M.
Published: June 2022

The problem of graphene protection of Ge surfaces against oxidation is investigated. Raman, X-Ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements of graphene epitaxially grown on Ge(001)/Si(001) substrates are presented. It is shown that the penetration of water vapor through graphene defects on Gr/Ge(001)/Si(001) samples leads to the oxidation of germanium, forming GeO2. The presence of trigonal GeO2 under graphene was identified by Raman and XRD measurements. The oxidation of Ge leads to the formation of blisters under the graphene layer. It is suggested that oxidation of Ge is connected with the dissociation of water molecules and penetration of OH molecules or O to the Ge surface. It has also been found that the formation of blisters of GeO2 leads to a dramatic increase in the intensity of the graphene Raman spectrum. The increase in the Raman signal intensity is most likely due to the screening of graphene by GeO2 from the Ge(001) surface.
The Fight against Infection and Pain: Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) a Rich Source of Anti-Inflammatory Activity: 2011–2022
Authors: Gxaba Nomagugu , Manganyi Madira Coutlyne
Published: June 2022

Harpagophytum procumbens subsp. procumbens (Burch.) DC. ex Meisn. (Sesame seed Family—Pedaliaceae) is a popular medicinal plant known as Devil’s claw. It is predominantly distributed widely over southern Africa. Its impressive reputation is embedded in its traditional uses as an indigenous herbal plant for the treatment of menstrual problems, bitter tonic, inflammation febrifuge, syphilis or even loss of appetite. A number of bioactive compounds such as terpenoids, iridoid glycosides, glycosides, and acetylated phenolic compounds have been isolated. Harpagoside and harpagide, iridoid glycosides bioactive compounds have been reported in countless phytochemical studies as potential anti-inflammatory agents as well as pain relievers. In-depth studies have associated chronic inflammation with various diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. In addition, 60% of chronic disorder fatalities are due to chronic inflammatory diseases worldwide. Inflammation and pain-related disorders have attracted significant attention as leading causes of global health challenges. Articles published from 2011 to the present were obtained and reviewed in-depth to determine valuable data findings as well as knowledge gaps. Various globally recognized scientific search engines/databases including Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect were utilized to collect information and deliver evidence. Based on the literature results, there was a dramatic decrease in the number of studies conducted on the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity of Devil’s claw, thereby presenting a potential research gap. It is also evident that currently in vivo clinical studies are needed to validate the prior massive in vitro studies, therefore delivering an ideal anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent in the form of H. procumbens products.
Comparison of Widely Targeted Metabolomics and Untargeted Metabolomics of Wild Ophiocordyceps sinensis
Authors: Zhou Jinna , Hou Donghai , Zou Weiqiu , Wang Jinhu , Luo Run , Wang Mu , Yu Hong
Published: June 2022

The authors of this paper conducted a comparative metabolomic analysis of Ophiocordyceps sinensis (OS), providing the metabolic profiles of the stroma (OSBSz) and sclerotia (OSBSh) of OS by widely targeted metabolomics and untargeted metabolomics. The results showed that 778 and 1449 metabolites were identified by the widely targeted metabolomics and untargeted metabolomics approaches, respectively. The metabolites in OSBSz and OSBSh are significantly differentiated; 71 and 96 differentially expressed metabolites were identified by the widely targeted metabolomics and untargeted metabolomics approaches, respectively. This suggests that these 71 metabolites (riboflavine, tripdiolide, bromocriptine, lumichrome, tetrahymanol, citrostadienol, etc.) and 96 metabolites (sancycline, vignatic acid B, pirbuterol, rubrophen, epalrestat, etc.) are potential biomarkers. 4-Hydroxybenzaldehyde, arginine, and lumichrome were common differentially expressed metabolites. Using the widely targeted metabolomics approach, the key pathways identified that are involved in creating the differentiation between OSBSz and OSBSh may be nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, thiamine metabolism, riboflavin metabolism, glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, and arginine biosynthesis. The differentially expressed metabolites identified using the untargeted metabolomics approach were mainly involved in arginine biosynthesis, terpenoid backbone biosynthesis, porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, and cysteine and methionine metabolism. The purpose of this research was to provide support for the assessment of the differences between the stroma and sclerotia, to furnish a material basis for the evaluation of the physical effects of OS, and to provide a reference for the selection of detection methods for the metabolomics of OS.
Effects of pH and Ionic Salts on the Emulsifying and Rheological Properties of Acorn Protein Isolate
Authors: Khan Nasir Mehmood , Saeed Muhammad , Khan Farman Ali , Ahmad Shujaat , Nawaz Muhammad Asif , Khan Zia Ullah , Shafique Muhammad , Almehmadi Mazen , Abdulaziz Osama , Ullah Abid
Published: June 2022

This study was designed to evaluate the emulsifying and rheological properties of acorn protein isolate (API) in different pH mediums (pH 3, 7 and 9) and in the presence of ionic salts (1 M NaCl and 1 M CaCl2). API shows higher solubility in distilled water at pH 7, while at the same pH, a decrease in solubility was observed for API in the presence of CaCl2 (61.30%). A lower emulsifying activity index (EAI), lower stability index (ESI), larger droplet sizes and slight flocculation were observed for API in the presence of salts at different pHs. Importantly, CaCl2 treated samples showed relevantly higher EAI (252.67 m2/g) and ESI (152.67 min) values at all pH as compared to NaCl (221.76 m2/g), (111.82 min), respectively. A significant increase in interfacial protein concentration (4.61 mg/m2) was observed for emulsion at pH 9 with CaCl2, while the major fractions of API were observed in an interfacial layer after SDS-PAGE analysis. All of the emulsion shows shear thinning behavior (τc > 0 and n < 1), while the highest viscosity was observed for emulsion prepared with CaCl2 at pH 3 (11.03 ± 1.62). In conclusion, API, in the presence of ionic salts at acidic, neutral and basic pH, can produce natural emulsions, which could be substitutes for synthetic surfactants for such formulations.
Metabolomic Approach for Rapid Identification of Antioxidants in Clinacanthus nutans Leaves with Liver Protective Potential
Authors: Ng Kai Song , Tan Sheri-Ann , Bok Chui Yin , Loh Khye Er , Ismail Intan Safinar , Yue Chen Son , Loke Chui Fung
Published: June 2022

Antioxidants are currently utilized to prevent the occurrence of liver cancer in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients. Clinacanthus nutans possesses anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties that could be an ideal therapy for liver problems. The objective of this study is to determine the potential antioxidative compounds from the C. nutans leaves (CNL) and stems (CNS). Chemical- and cell-based antioxidative assays were utilized to evaluate the bioactivities of CNS and CNL. The NMR metabolomics approach assisted in the identification of contributing phytocompounds. Based on DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities, CNL demonstrated stronger radical scavenging potential as compared to CNS. The leaf extract also recorded slightly higher reducing power properties. A HepG2 cell model system was used to investigate the ROS reduction potential of these extracts. It was shown that cells treated with CNL and CNS reduced innate ROS levels as compared to untreated controls. Interestingly, cells pre-treated with both extracts were also able to decrease ROS levels in cells induced with oxidative stress. CNL was again the better antioxidant. According to multivariate data analysis of the 1H NMR results, the main metabolites postulated to contribute to the antioxidant and hepatoprotective abilities of leaves were clinacoside B, clinacoside C and isoschaftoside, which warrants further investigation.
One A3B Porphyrin Structure—Three Successful Applications
Authors: Fratilescu Ion , Lascu Anca , Taranu Bogdan Ovidiu , Epuran Camelia , Birdeanu Mihaela , Macsim Ana-Maria , Tanasa Eugenia , Vasile Eugeniu , Fagadar-Cosma Eugenia
Published: June 2022

Porphyrins are versatile structures capable of acting in multiple ways. A mixed substituted A3B porphyrin, 5-(3-hydroxy-phenyl)-10,15,20-tris-(3-methoxy-phenyl)-porphyrin and its Pt(II) complex, were synthesised and fully characterised by 1H- and 13C-NMR, TLC, UV-Vis, FT-IR, fluorescence, AFM, TEM and SEM with EDX microscopy, both in organic solvents and in acidic mediums. The pure compounds were used, firstly, as sensitive materials for sensitive and selective optical and fluorescence detection of hydroquinone with the best results in the range 0.039–6.71 µM and a detection limit of 0.013 µM and, secondly, as corrosion inhibitors for carbon–steel (OL) in an acid medium giving a best performance of 88% in the case of coverings with Pt-porphyrin. Finally, the electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions (HER and OER) of the free-base and Pt-metalated A3B porphyrins was evaluated in strong alkaline and acidic electrolyte solutions. The best results were obtained for the electrode modified with the metalated porphyrin, drop-casted on a graphite substrate from an N,N-dimethylformamide solution. In the strong acidic medium, the electrode displayed an HER overpotential of 108 mV, at i = −10 mA/cm2 and a Tafel slope value of 205 mV/dec.
Tunable Carrier Transfer of Polymeric Carbon Nitride with Charge-Conducting CoV2O6∙2H2O for Photocatalytic O2 Evolution
Authors: Zang Shaohong , Cai Xiaorong , Chen Mengshan , Teng Dehong , Jing Fei , Leng Zhe , Zhou Yingtang , Lin Feng
Published: June 2022

Photocatalytic water splitting is one of the promising approaches to solving environmental problems and energy crises. However, the sluggish 4e− transfer kinetics in water oxidation half-reaction restricts the 2e− reduction efficiency in photocatalytic water splitting. Herein, cobalt vanadate-decorated polymeric carbon nitride (named CoVO/PCN) was constructed to mediate the carrier kinetic process in a photocatalytic water oxidation reaction (WOR). The photocatalysts were well-characterized by various physicochemical techniques such as XRD, FT-IR, TEM, and XPS. Under UV and visible light irradiation, the O2 evolution rate of optimized 3 wt% CoVO/PCN reached 467 and 200 μmol h−1 g−1, which were about 6.5 and 5.9 times higher than that of PCN, respectively. Electrochemical tests and PL results reveal that the recombination of photogenerated carriers on PCN is effectively suppressed and the kinetics of WOR is significantly enhanced after CoVO introduction. This work highlights key features of the tuning carrier kinetics of PCN using charge-conducting materials, which should be the basis for the further development of photocatalytic O2 reactions.
Green Synthesis of Lead Sulphide Nanoparticles for High-Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Islam Mohammad Aminul , Sarkar Dilip Kumar , Shahinuzzaman Md. , Wahab Yasmin Abdul , Khandaker Mayeen Uddin , Tamam Nissren , Sulieman Abdelmoneim , Amin Nowshad , Akhtaruzzaman Md.
Published: June 2022

In this study, lead sulfide (PbS) nanoparticles were synthesized by the chemical precipitation method using Aloe Vera extract with PbCl2 and Thiourea (H2N-CS-NH2). The synthesized nanoparticles have been investigated using x-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). XRD and TEM results confirm that the films are in the cubic phase. The crystallite size, lattice constant, micro-strain, dislocation density, optical bandgap, etc. have been determined using XRD and UV-Vis for investigating the quality of prepared nanoparticles. The possible application of these synthesized nanoparticles in the solar cells was investigated by fabricating the thin films on an FTO-coated and bare glass substrate. The properties of nanoparticles were found to be nearly retained in the film state as well. The experimentally found properties of thin films have been implemented for perovskite solar cell simulation and current-voltage and capacitance-voltage characteristics have been investigated. The simulation results showed that PbS nanoparticles could be a potential hole transport layer for high-efficiency perovskite solar cell applications.
A Computationally Efficient Gradient Algorithm for Downlink Training Sequence Optimization in FDD Massive MIMO Systems
Authors: Alsabah Muntadher , Naser Marwah Abdulrazzaq , Mahmmod Basheera M. , Abdulhussain Sadiq H.
Published: June 2022

Future wireless networks will require advance physical-layer techniques to meet the requirements of Internet of Everything (IoE) applications and massive communication systems. To this end, a massive MIMO (m-MIMO) system is to date considered one of the key technologies for future wireless networks. This is due to the capability of m-MIMO to bring a significant improvement in the spectral efficiency and energy efficiency. However, designing an efficient downlink (DL) training sequence for fast channel state information (CSI) estimation, i.e., with limited coherence time, in a frequency division duplex (FDD) m-MIMO system when users exhibit different correlation patterns, i.e., span distinct channel covariance matrices, is to date very challenging. Although advanced iterative algorithms have been developed to address this challenge, they exhibit slow convergence speed and thus deliver high latency and computational complexity. To overcome this challenge, we propose a computationally efficient conjugate gradient-descent (CGD) algorithm based on the Riemannian manifold in order to optimize the DL training sequence at base station (BS), while improving the convergence rate to provide a fast CSI estimation for an FDD m-MIMO system. To this end, the sum rate and the computational complexity performances of the proposed training solution are compared with the state-of-the-art iterative algorithms. The results show that the proposed training solution maximizes the achievable sum rate performance, while delivering a lower overall computational complexity owing to a faster convergence rate in comparison to the state-of-the-art iterative algorithms.
Evaluating the Nutritional Properties of Food: A Scoping Review
Authors: Wang Pei , Huang Jiazhang , Sun Junmao , Liu Rui , Jiang Tong , Sun Guiju
Published: June 2022

There are many methods or indicators used for evaluating the nutritional value of foods; however, it is difficult to accurately reflect the comprehensive nutritional value of a food with a single indicator, and a systematic evaluation system is lacking. In this article, we systematically summarize the common evaluation methods and indicators of the nutritional value of foods. The purpose of this review was to establish an evaluation procedure for nutritional properties of foodstuffs and to help scientists choose more direct and economical evaluation methods according to food types or relevant indicators. The procedure involves the selection of a three-level evaluation method that covers the whole spectrum of a food’s nutritional characteristics. It is applicable to scientific research in the fields of agricultural science, food science, nutrition, and so on.
Vitamin D, the Vitamin D Receptor, Calcitriol Analogues and Their Link with Ocular Diseases
Authors: Caban Miłosz , Lewandowska Urszula
Published: June 2022

The global prevalence of eye diseases continues to grow, bringing with it a reduction in the activity levels and quality of life of patients, and partial or complete blindness if left untreated. As such, there is considerable interest in identifying more effective therapeutic options and preventive agents. One such agent is vitamin D, known to have a range of anti-cancer, anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, and whose deficiency is linked to the pathogenesis of a range of cardiovascular, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. This review presents the current stage of knowledge concerning the link between vitamin D and its receptor and the occurrence of eye disease, as well as the influence of analogues of calcitriol, an active metabolite of vitamin D. Generally, patients affected by various ocular disorders have vitamin D deficiency. In addition, previous findings suggest that vitamin D modulates the course of eye diseases and may serve as a marker, and that its supplementation could mitigate some disorders. However, as these studies have some limitations, we recommend further randomized trials to clarify the link between vitamin D and its activity with eye disease.
Antistaphylococcal Activities and ADME-Related Properties of Chlorinated Arylcarbamoylnaphthalenylcarbamates
Authors: Gonec Tomas , Pindjakova Dominika , Vrablova Lucia , Strharsky Tomas , Michnova Hana , Kauerova Tereza , Kollar Peter , Oravec Michal , Jendrzejewska Izabela , Cizek Alois , Jampilek Josef
Published: June 2022

Pattern 1-hydroxy-N-(2,4,5-trichlorophenyl)-2-naphthamide and the thirteen original carbamates derived from it were prepared and characterized. All the compounds were tested against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 as a reference and quality control strain and in addition against three clinical isolates of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Moreover, the compounds were evaluated against Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, and preliminary in vitro cytotoxicity of the compounds was assessed using the human monocytic leukemia cell line (THP-1). The lipophilicity of the prepared compounds was experimentally determined and correlated with biological activity. While pattern anilide had no antibacterial activity, the prepared carbamates demonstrated high antistaphylococcal activity comparable to the used standards (ampicillin and ciprofloxacin), which unfortunately were ineffective against E. feacalis. 2-[(2,4,5-Trichlorophenyl)carba- moyl]naphthalen-1-yl ethylcarbamate (2) and 2-[(2,4,5-trichlorophenyl)carbamoyl]naphthalen-1-yl butylcarbamate (4) expressed the nanomolar minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs 0.018–0.064 μM) against S. aureus and at least two other MRSA isolates. Microbicidal effects based on the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) against all the tested staphylococci were found for nine carbamates, while 2-[(2,4,5-trichlorophenyl)carbamoyl]naphthalen-1-yl heptylcarbamate (7) and 2-[(2,4,5-trichlorophenyl)carbamoyl]naphthalen-1-yl (4-phenylbutyl)carbamate (14) demonstrated MBCs in the range of 0.124–0.461 μM. The selectivity index (SI) for most investigated carbamates was >20 and for some derivatives even >100. The performed tests did not show an effect on the damage to the bacterial membrane, while the compounds were able to inhibit the respiratory chain of S. aureus.
Bisimidazolium Salt Glycosyltransferase Inhibitors Suppress Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Luan Xue , Sun Ming , Zhao Xue , Wang Jingyi , Han Ye , Gao Yin
Published: June 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a leading cause of cancer death, and the disease progression has been related to glycophenotype modifications. Previously synthesized bisimidazolium salts (C20 and C22) have been shown to selectively inhibit the activity of glycosyltransferases in cultured cancer cell homogenates. The current study investigated the anticancer effects of C20/C22 and the possible pathways through which these effects are achieved. The therapeutic value of C20/C22 in terms of inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis, as well as inducing apoptosis, were examined with hepatic cancer cell line HepG2 and a xenograft mouse model. C20/C22 treatment downregulated the synthesis of SLex and Ley sugar epitopes and suppressed selectin-mediated cancer cell metastasis. C20/C22 inhibited HepG2 proliferation, induced cell-cycle arrest, increased intracellular ROS level, led to ER stress, and eventually induced apoptosis through the intrinsic pathway. Furthermore, C20/C22 upregulated the expressions of death receptors DR4 and DR5, substantially increasing the sensitivity of HepG2 to TRAIL-triggered apoptosis. In vivo, C20/C22 effectively inhibited tumor growth and angiogenesis in the xenograft mouse model without adverse effects on major organs. In summary, C20 and C22 are new promising anti-hepatic cancer agents with multiple mechanisms in controlling cancer cell growth, metastasis, and apoptosis, and they merit further development into anticancer drugs.
The Diverse Biological Activity of Recently Synthesized Nitro Compounds
Authors: Noriega Saúl , Cardoso-Ortiz Jaime , López-Luna Argelia , Cuevas-Flores Ma Del Refugio , Flores De La Torre Juan Armando
Published: June 2022

The search for new and efficient pharmaceuticals is a constant struggle for medicinal chemists. New substances are needed in order to treat different pathologies affecting the health of humans and animals, and these new compounds should be safe, effective and have the fewest side effects possible. Some functional groups are known for having biological activity; in this matter, the nitro group (NO2) is an efficient scaffold when synthesizing new bioactive molecules. Nitro compounds display a wide spectrum of activities that include antineoplastic, antibiotic, antihypertensive, antiparasitic, tranquilizers and even herbicides, among many others. Most nitro molecules exhibit antimicrobial activity, and several of the compounds mentioned in this review may be further studied as lead compounds for the treatment of H. pylori, P. aeruginosa, M. tuberculosis and S. mutans infections, among others. The NO2 moiety triggers redox reactions within cells causing toxicity and the posterior death of microorganisms, not only bacteria but also multicellular organisms such as parasites. The same effect may be present in humans as well, so the nitro groups can be considered both a pharmacophore and a toxicophore at the same time. The role of the nitro group itself also has a deep effect on the polarity and electronic properties of the resulting molecules, and hence favors interactions with some amino acids in proteins. For these reasons, it is fundamental to analyze the recently synthesized nitro molecules that show any potential activity in order to develop new pharmacological treatments that enhance human health.
Development of Irinotecan Liposome Armed with Dual-Target Anti-Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and Anti-Fibroblast Activation Protein-Specific Antibody for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment
Authors: Lin Hung-Jun , Liang Tien-Li , Chang Yao-Yuan , Liu Der-Zen , Fan Jia-Yu , Roffler Steve R. , Lin Shyr-Yi
Published: June 2022

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most common causes of death in Taiwan. Previous studies have shown that more than 90% of pancreatic cancer cells presented epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) cell marker, and this marker is thought to be important as it is related to activation of cancer cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and cancer progression. Moreover, tumor-associated fibroblasts were involved in tumor proliferation and progression. In this study, we fabricated an anti-EGFR and anti-fibroblast activation protein bispecific antibody-targeted liposomal irinotecan (BS−LipoIRI), which could specifically bind to pancreatic cancer cells and tumor-associated fibroblasts. The drug encapsulation efficiency of BS−LipoIRI was 80.95%, and the drug loading was 8.41%. We proved that both pancreatic cancer cells and fibroblasts could be targeted by BS−LipoIRI, which showed better cellular uptake efficacy compared to LipoIRI. Furthermore, an in vivo mouse tumor test indicated that BS−LipoIRI could inhibit pancreatic cancer growth up to 46.2% compared to phosphate-buffered saline control, suggesting that BS−LipoIRI could be useful in clinical cancer treatment.
Microwave Frequency Dissemination over a 212 km Cascaded Urban Fiber Link with Stability at the 10−18 Level
Authors: Quan Honglei , Xue Wenxiang , Zhao Wenyu , Xing Yan , Jiang Haifeng , Guo Wenge , Zhang Shougang
Published: June 2022

To synchronize standard frequency signals between long-distance laboratories, we carried out a frequency dissemination experiment over a 212 km cascaded urban fiber link. This cascaded link was composed of two 106 km fiber links, in which the fiber noise was compensated by two microwave frequency dissemination systems. The two adjacent frequency dissemination systems used different frequency transmitted signals, preventing the influence of signal crosstalk between the received signal of the previous stage and the transmitted signal of the second stage caused by microwave signal leakage. The frequency dissemination over the cascaded link showed a dissemination fractional frequency instability of 6.2 × 10−15 at 1 s and 6.4 × 10−18 at 40,000 s, which is better than the transfer stability over the same 212 km single-stage link.