bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recovering Microalgal Bioresources: A Review of Cell Disruption Methods and Extraction Technologies
Authors: Rahman Md. Mijanur , Hosano Nushin , Hosano Hamid
Published: April 2022

Microalgae have evolved into a promising sustainable source of a wide range of compounds, including protein, carbohydrates, biomass, vitamins, animal feed, and cosmetic products. The process of extraction of intracellular composites in the microalgae industry is largely determined by the microalgal species, cultivation methods, cell wall disruption techniques, and extraction strategies. Various techniques have been applied to disrupt the cell wall and recover the intracellular molecules from microalgae, including non-mechanical, mechanical, and combined methods. A comprehensive understanding of the cell disruption processes in each method is essential to improve the efficiency of current technologies and further development of new methods in this field. In this review, an overview of microalgal cell disruption techniques and an analysis of their performance and challenges are provided. A number of studies on cell disruption and microalgae extraction are examined in order to highlight the key challenges facing the field of microalgae and their future prospects. In addition, the amount of product recovery for each species of microalgae and the important parameters for each technique are discussed. Finally, pulsed electric field (PEF)-assisted treatments, which are becoming an attractive option due to their simplicity and effectiveness in extracting microalgae compounds, are discussed in detail.
Anisotropic Reaction Properties for Different HMX/HTPB Composites: A Theoretical Study of Shock Decomposition
Authors: He Zheng-Hua , Huang Yao-Yao , Ji Guang-Fu , Chen Jun , Wu Qiang
Published: April 2022

Plastic-bonded explosives (PBXs) consisting of explosive grains and a polymer binder are commonly synthesized to improve mechanical properties and reduce sensitivity, but their intrinsic chemical behaviors while subjected to stress are not sufficiently understood yet. Here, we construct three composites of β-HMX bonded with the HTPB binder to investigate the reaction characteristics under shock loading using the quantum-based molecular dynamics method. Six typical interactions between HMX and HTPB molecules are detected when the system is subjected to pressure. Although the initial electron structure is modified by the impurity states from HTPB, the metallization process for HMX does not significantly change. The shock decompositions of HMX/HTPB along the (100) and (010) surface are initiated by molecular ring dissociation and hydrogen transfer. The initial oxidations of C and H within HTPB possess advantages. As for the (001) surface, the dissociation is started with alkyl dehydrogenation oxidation, and a stronger hydrogen transfer from HTPB to HMX is detected during the following process. Furthermore, considerable fragment aggregation is observed, which mainly derives from the formation of new C−C and C−N bonds under high pressure. The effect of cluster evolution on the progression of the following reaction is further studied by analyzing the bonded structure and displacement rate.
The Effects of Berry Extracts on Oxidative Stress in Cultured Cardiomyocytes and Microglial Cells: A Potential Cardioprotective and Neuroprotective Mechanism
Authors: Currie Tanisha L. , Engler Marguerite M. , Olsen Cara H. , Krauthamer Victor , Scott Jonathan M. , Deuster Patricia A. , Flagg Thomas P.
Published: April 2022

Oxidative stress is a key underlying factor in cognitive decline and atherosclerosis. Oxidative stress occurs at the cellular level with an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species and a deficiency in antioxidants. Mounting evidence suggests that berry flavonoids may promote cellular health by exerting antioxidant properties. Black currant and various berry extracts were tested in microglia (BV-2) and cardiomyocyte (HL-1) cell lines to study their biological effects. The principal ingredients in black currant and cranberry extract–delphinidin 3-rutinoside (D3R) and cyanidin 3-glucoside (C3G), were also assessed. A menadione-induced oxidative stressor was used, and its output was quantified to detect oxidative stress (CellROXTM). Black currant extract had similar antioxidant effects as N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in HL-1 cells with regard to cellular protection, whereas cranberry extract was ineffective. In contrast, cranberry extract was comparable in effectiveness to black currant extract in BV-2 cells. D3R and C3G also reduced oxidative stress similarly to whole berry extracts, which indicates that these ingredients may confer the antioxidant effects of berries. Black currant and cranberry extracts inhibit oxidative stress in microglial and cardiomyocyte cell lines. Black currant extract was more effective in reducing oxidative stress in the HL-1 cells, whereas cranberry extract was comparable in reducing oxidative stress in the BV-2 cells. The results suggest that berry flavonoids exert neuro- and cardioprotective effects.
Lymph Nodes Draining Infections Investigated by PET and Immunohistochemistry in a Juvenile Porcine Model
Authors: Afzelius Pia , Morsing Malene Kjelin , Nielsen Ole Lerberg , Alstrup Aage Kristian Olsen , Jensen Svend Borup , Jødal Lars
Published: April 2022

Background: [18F]FDG and [11C]methionine accumulate in lymph nodes draining S. aureus -infected foci. The lymph nodes were characterized by weight, [11C]methionine- and [18F]FDG-positron emissions tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT), and immunohistochemical (IHC)-staining. Methods: 20 pigs inoculated with S. aureus into the right femoral artery were PET/CT-scanned with [18F]FDG, and nine of the pigs were additionally scanned with [11C]methionine. Mammary, medial iliac, and popliteal lymph nodes from the left and right hind limbs were weighed. IHC-staining for calculations of area fractions of Ki-67, L1, and IL-8 positive cells was done in mammary and popliteal lymph nodes from the nine pigs. Results: The pigs developed one to six osteomyelitis foci. Some pigs developed contiguous infections of peri-osseous tissue and inoculation-site abscesses. Weights of mammary and medial iliac lymph nodes and their [18F]FDG maximum Standardized Uptake Values (SUVFDGmax) showed a significant increase in the inoculated limb compared to the left limb. Popliteal lymph node weight and their FDG uptake did not differ significantly between hind limbs. Area fractions of Ki-67 and IL-8 in the right mammary lymph nodes and SUVMetmax in the right popliteal lymph nodes were significantly increased compared with the left side. Conclusion: The PET-tracers [18F]FDG and [11C]methionine, and the IHC- markers Ki-67 and IL-8, but not L1, showed increased values in lymph nodes draining soft tissues infected with S. aureus. The increase in [11C]methionine may indicate a more acute lymph node response, whereas an increase in [18F]FDG may indicate a more chronic response.
Characterization of the Compounds Released in the Gaseous Waste Stream during the Slow Pyrolysis of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)
Authors: Marrot Laetitia , Meile Kristine , Zouari Mariem , DeVallance David , Sandak Anna , Herrera Rene
Published: April 2022

This study aims to characterize and valorize hemp residual biomass by a slow pyrolysis process. The volatile by-products of hemp carbonization were characterized by several methods (TGA, UV-VIS, TLC, Flash Prep-LC, UHPLC, QTOF-MS) to understand the pyrolysis reaction mechanisms and to identify the chemical products produced during the process. The obtained carbon yield was 29%, generating a gaseous stream composed of phenols and furans which was collected in four temperature ranges (F1 at 20–150 °C, F2 at 150–250 °C, F3 at 250–400 °C and F4 at 400–1000 °C). The obtained liquid fractions were separated into subfractions by flash chromatography. The total phenolic content (TPC) varied depending on the fraction but did not correlate with an increase in temperature or with a decrease in pH value. Compounds present in fractions F1, F3 and F4, being mainly phenolic molecules such as guaiacyl or syringyl derivatives issued from the lignin degradation, exhibit antioxidant capacity. The temperature of the pyrolysis process was positively correlated with detectable phenolic content, which can be explained by the decomposition order of the hemp chemical constituents. A detailed understanding of the chemical composition of pyrolysis products of hemp residuals allows for an assessment of their potential valorization routes and the future economic potential of underutilized biomass.
Rapid Synthesis of Hexagonal-Shaped Zn(Al)O-MMO Nanorods for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Using Zn/Al-LDH as Precursor
Authors: Salih Ethar Yahya , Ramizy Asmiet , Aldaghri Osamah , Sabri Mohd Faizul Mohd , Madkhali Nawal , Alinad Tarfah , Ibnaouf Khalid Hassan , Eisa Mohamed Hassan
Published: April 2022

This study reports a simple new technique for the preparation of novel hexagonal-shaped mixed metal oxides (MMO) nanorods using Zn/Al-layered double hydroxide (LDH) as a precursor for dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) application. The effect of the Zn to Al molar ratio demonstrated a sound correlation between the obtained nanorods’ diameter and the fabricated DSSCs efficiency. Additionally, the optical behavior of the fabricated MMO film as well as the absorption enhancement due to the utilized dye are also demonstrated; a cut-off phenomenon at around 376 nm corresponds to the attained hexagonal nanorods. The open-circuit voltage augmented noticeably from 0.6 to 0.64 V alongside an increase in the diameter of nanorods from 64 to 80 nm. The results indicated that an increment in the diameter of the nanorods is desirable due to the enhanced surface area through which a higher amount of dye N719 was loaded (0.35 mM/cm2). This, in turn, expedited the transport of electrons within the MMO matrix resulting in an advanced short-circuit current. Of the devices fabricated, ZA-8 exhibited the highest fill factor and efficiency of 0.37% and 0.69%, respectively, because of its boosted short-circuit current and open-circuit voltage.
Nanoscale Doping and Its Impact on the Ferroelectric and Piezoelectric Properties of Hf0.5Zr0.5O2
Authors: Chouprik Anastasia , Kirtaev Roman , Korostylev Evgeny , Mikheev Vitalii , Spiridonov Maxim , Negrov Dmitrii
Published: April 2022

Ferroelectric hafnium oxide thin films—the most promising materials in microelectronics’ non-volatile memory—exhibit both unconventional ferroelectricity and unconventional piezoelectricity. Their exact origin remains controversial, and the relationship between ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties remains unclear. We introduce a new method to investigate this issue, which consists in a local controlled modification of the ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties within a single Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 capacitor device through local doping and a further comparative nanoscopic analysis of the modified regions. By comparing the ferroelectric properties of Ga-doped Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 thin films with the results of piezoresponse force microscopy and their simulation, as well as with the results of in situ synchrotron X-ray microdiffractometry, we demonstrate that, depending on the doping concentration, ferroelectric Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 has either a negative or a positive longitudinal piezoelectric coefficient, and its maximal value is −0.3 pm/V. This is several hundreds or thousands of times less than those of classical ferroelectrics. These changes in piezoelectric properties are accompanied by either improved or decreased remnant polarization, as well as partial or complete domain switching. We conclude that various ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties, and the relationships between them, can be designed for Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 via oxygen vacancies and mechanical-strain engineering, e.g., by doping ferroelectric films.
Impact of COVID-19 in AChR Myasthenia Gravis and the Safety of Vaccines: Data from an Italian Cohort
Authors: Lupica Antonino , Di Stefano Vincenzo , Iacono Salvatore , Pignolo Antonia , Quartana Martina , Gagliardo Andrea , Fierro Brigida , Brighina Filippo
Published: April 2022

Background and aims. Patients with Myasthenia gravis (MG) are considered vulnerable as they may present with respiratory muscle weakness and because they are on immunosuppressive treatment; thereby, COVID-19 may have a detrimental effect on these patients. Vaccines against COVID-19 are currently available and it has been shown as they can prevent severe COVID-19 in vulnerable patients. Notwithstanding their efficacy, vaccine hesitancy has not been completely dispelled in the general population. Unfortunately, there is limited data about the safety of these vaccines in MG patients. The aims of this study are to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 in a MG cohort, the adherence to COVID-19 vaccination in Italy and vaccine safety in MG patients. Methods. A retrospective cohort study of MG patients attending the Neuromuscular Clinic of the University Hospital “Paolo Giaccone” of Palermo, Italy, was performed. Patients underwent telephone interviews with a dedicated questionnaire on SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and infection. Vaccine safety was assessed though the evaluation of vaccine-related adverse events (AEs) and comparisons of MG-ADL scores before and after vaccination. Patient worsening was defined as two or more point increases in MG-ADL scores. Results. From a total of 90 participants, 75 answered the questionnaire and 70.5% of them (n = 53) received the vaccine; ten patients did not receive vaccination and 3 patients were partially vaccinated. Among the vaccinated patients, about 45% (n = 24) experienced at least one AE, with a complete resolution within one week. No serious AEs and life-threatening conditions were observed. Globally, MG-ADL scores did not worsen after vaccination. Nine unvaccinated patients experienced SARS-CoV2 infection and four of them (44%) died—one patient required respiratory support, whereas three patients were asymptomatic. Conclusions. COVID-19 significantly impacted MG patients with an increase in mortality due to respiratory sequelae. Vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 showed good short-term safety in MG patients, who may take advantage of vaccination to avoiding life-threatening complications such as COVID-19 pneumonia.
Dietary Advanced Glycation End Products in an Elderly Population with Diabetic Nephropathy: An Exploratory Investigation
Authors: Steenbeke Mieke , De Decker Ignace , Marchand Sophie , Glorieux Griet , Van Biesen Wim , Lapauw Bruno , Delanghe Joris R. , Speeckaert Marijn M.
Published: April 2022

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are important in pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Dietary AGEs (dAGEs) contribute to the overall AGE pool in the body. Forty elderly T2DM patients with DKD were randomly allocated to a low-AGE (n = 20) or regular diabetic (n = 20) diet group. A three-day meal questionnaire was used to estimate average quantity of dAGEs. AGE accumulation was measured using skin autofluorescence and urine spectroscopy. sRAGE (soluble receptor AGE) was quantified using ELISA. After 8 weeks, the mean consumption of dAGEs was considerably reduced, both in the low-AGE diet (p = 0.004) and the control (p = 0.019) group. The expected urinary emission peak at 490 nm was shifted to 520 nm in some spectra. dAGEs did not correspond with urine AGE output. An AGE-limited diet for two months did not affect AGE content in skin and urine, or sRAGE concentration in the blood. The role of glycemia is likely to be greater than the impact of dAGE consumption. The unique observation of a fluorescence pattern at 520 nm warrants further examination, since it might point to genetic differences in AGE regulation, which could have clinical consequences, as AGE content depends on its formation and elimination.
Dietary Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) and Risk of Dyslipidemia in a Chinese Population
Authors: Yu Lianlong , Zhu Qianrang , Li Yuqian , Song Pengkun , Zhang Jian
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to explore the association between dietary BCAAs, blood lipid levels and risk of dyslipidemia. In this case–control study, a total of 9541 subjects with normal blood lipids were included as a control group, and 9792 patients with dyslipidemia were included as a case group. Dietary BCAA intake data were measured using 3-day 24 h meal recalls and household condiment weighing. All samples were from China Nutrition and Health Surveillance (2015). Generalized linear model, logistic regression, and restricted cubic spline (RCS) were used to evaluate the relationship between dietary BCAAs, blood lipids and dyslipidemia. After adjusting for confounding factors, dietary BCAAs were positively correlated with TC and LDL-C (p < 0.05). Higher dietary BCAAs were associated with higher OR for Hypercholesteremia (Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.05–1.58, p-trend = 0.034). The ORs of Hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia showed inverted U-shaped with increasing dietary BCAAs (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.03–1.39; Q2 vs. Q1, OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01–1.31). The relationship between dietary BCAAs and the risk of Hypercholesteremia and Hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia were both nonlinear (p nonlinearity = 0.0059, 0.0198). Our study reveals that dietary BCAAs are associated with specific types of lipids and risk of dyslipidemia, some of which may be non-linear.
Body Mass Index Mediates the Relationship between the Frequency of Eating Away from Home and Hypertension in Rural Adults: A Large-Scale Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Liu Beibei , Liu Xiaotian , Wang Yuyang , Dong Xiaokang , Liao Wei , Huo Wenqian , Hou Jian , Li Linlin , Wang Chongjian
Published: April 2022

This study was conducted to investigate the association of eating away from home (EAFH) frequency with hypertension and to explore whether the association was mediated by BMI. A total of 29,611 participants were selected from the Henan Rural Cohort Study. Data on the frequency of EAFH were obtained by face-to-face questionnaires. The relationship between EAFH frequency and blood pressure was evaluated by linear regression. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline were used to assess the association between EAFH frequency and hypertension, and the mediation effect of BMI on the relationship was performed. There were pronounced associations between the frequency of EAFH and blood pressure (P trend < 0.001) in the total population and men. Compared with the population with 0 times EAFH per week, the multivariate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for hypertension of the group with 7 times or more EAFH per week were 1.673 (1.482–1.889) for the total population and 1.634 (1.413–1.890) for men. A nonlinear dose-response relationship was detected between the frequency of EAFH and hypertension (p < 0.001), and the relationship was partially mediated by BMI. The proportion explained was 21.3% in the total population and 25.4% in men. The current study indicated that EAFH was associated with rising blood pressure and increased risk of hypertension and BMI partially mediated the relationship.
A Blood Vessel Organoid Model Recapitulating Aspects of Vasculogenesis, Angiogenesis and Vessel Wall Maturation
Authors: Schmidt Sven , Alt Yvonne , Deoghare Nikita , Krüger Sarah , Kern Anna , Rockel Anna Frederike , Wagner Nicole , Ergün Süleyman , Wörsdörfer Philipp
Published: April 2022

Blood vessel organoids are an important in vitro model to understand the underlying mechanisms of human blood vessel development and for toxicity testing or high throughput drug screening. Here we present a novel, cost-effective, and easy to manufacture vascular organoid model. To engineer the organoids, a defined number of human induced pluripotent stem cells are seeded in non-adhesive agarose coated wells of a 96-well plate and directed towards a lateral plate mesoderm fate by activation of Wnt and BMP4 signaling. We observe the formation of a circular layer of angioblasts around days 5–6. Induced by VEGF application, CD31+ vascular endothelial cells appear within this vasculogenic zone at approximately day 7 of organoid culture. These cells arrange to form a primitive vascular plexus from which angiogenic sprouting is observed after 10 days of culture. The differentiation outcome is highly reproducible, and the size of organoids is scalable depending on the number of starting cells. We observe that the initial vascular ring forms at the interface between two cell populations. The inner cellular compartment can be distinguished from the outer by the expression of GATA6, a marker of lateral plate mesoderm. Finally, 14-days-old organoids were transplanted on the chorioallantois membrane of chicken embryos resulting in a functional connection of the human vascular network to the chicken circulation. Perfusion of the vessels leads to vessel wall maturation and remodeling as indicated by the formation of a continuous layer of smooth muscle actin expressing cells enwrapping the endothelium. In summary, our organoid model recapitulates human vasculogenesis, angiogenesis as well as vessel wall maturation and therefore represents an easy and cost-effective tool to study all steps of blood vessel development and maturation directly in the human setting without animal experimentation.
Efficacy and Safety of Bulevirtide plus Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate in Real-World Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B and D Co-Infection
Authors: Herta Toni , Hahn Magdalena , Maier Melanie , Fischer Janett , Niemeyer Johannes , Hönemann Mario , Böhlig Albrecht , Gerhardt Florian , Schindler Aaron , Schumacher Jonas , Berg Thomas , Wiegand Johannes , van Bömmel Florian
Published: April 2022

Background: The hepatitis B and D virus (HBV/HDV) hepatocyte entry inhibitor bulevirtide (BLV) has been available in Europe since July 2020, after the registrational trial MYR202. Real-life data on the efficacy and safety of BLV are sparse. Methods: We have analysed the course of treatment with BLV (2 mg/day) plus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) (245 mg/day) in patients with chronic hepatitis delta (CHD). Virologic (≥2 log reduction in HDV RNA or suppression of HDV RNA below the lower limit of detection) and biochemical (normalisation of serum ALT) treatment responses after 24 weeks were defined according to the MYR202 trial. Results: Seven patients were recruited (four with liver cirrhosis Child–Pugh A). After 24 weeks, a virologic response was observed in five of seven and a biochemical response was seen in three of six patients with elevated serum ALT at baseline. Extended treatment data > 48 weeks were available in three cases: two presented with continuous virologic and biochemical responses and in one individual an HDV-RNA breakthrough was observed. Adverse effects were not recorded. Conclusions: The first real-life data of the approved dosage of 2 mg of BLV in combination with TDF confirm the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of the registrational trial MYR202 for a treatment period of 24 weeks and beyond.
Design of D-Amino Acids SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Inhibitors Using the Cationic Peptide from Rattlesnake Venom as a Scaffold
Authors: Eberle Raphael J. , Gering Ian , Tusche Markus , Ostermann Philipp N. , Müller Lisa , Adams Ortwin , Schaal Heiner , Olivier Danilo S. , Amaral Marcos S. , Arni Raghuvir K. , Willbold Dieter , Coronado Mônika A.
Published: April 2022

The C30 endopeptidase (3C-like protease; 3CLpro) is essential for the life cycle of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2) since it plays a pivotal role in viral replication and transcription and, hence, is a promising drug target. Molecules isolated from animals, insects, plants, or microorganisms can serve as a scaffold for the design of novel biopharmaceutical products. Crotamine, a small cationic peptide from the venom of the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus, has been the focus of many studies since it exhibits activities such as analgesic, in vitro antibacterial, and hemolytic activities. The crotamine derivative L-peptides (L-CDP) that inhibit the 3CL protease in the low µM range were examined since they are susceptible to proteolytic degradation; we explored the utility of their D-enantiomers form. Comparative uptake inhibition analysis showed D-CDP as a promising prototype for a D-peptide-based drug. We also found that the D-peptides can impair SARS-CoV-2 replication in vivo, probably targeting the viral protease 3CLpro.
Emergence of Nanotechnology as a Powerful Cavalry against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)
Authors: Chaudhuri Aiswarya , Kumar Dulla Naveen , Dehari Deepa , Singh Sanjay , Kumar Pradeep , Bolla Pradeep Kumar , Kumar Dinesh , Agrawal Ashish Kumar
Published: April 2022

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is considered one of the un-manageable types of breast cancer, involving devoid of estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER 2) receptors. Due to their ability of recurrence and metastasis, the management of TNBC remains a mainstay challenge, despite the advancements in cancer therapies. Conventional chemotherapy remains the only treatment regimen against TNBC and suffers several limitations such as low bioavailability, systemic toxicity, less targetability, and multi-drug resistance. Although various targeted therapies have been introduced to manage the hardship of TNBC, they still experience certain limitations associated with the survival benefits. The current research thus aimed at developing and improving the strategies for effective therapy against TNBC. Such strategies involved the emergence of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles are designated as nanocavalries, loaded with various agents (drugs, genes, etc.) to battle the progression and metastasis of TNBC along with overcoming the limitations experienced by conventional chemotherapy and targeted therapy. This article documents the treatment regimens of TNBC along with their efficacy towards different subtypes of TNBC, and the various nanotechnologies employed to increase the therapeutic outcome of FDA-approved drug regimens.
Stand-Alone or Combinatorial Effects of Grafting and Microbial and Non-Microbial Derived Compounds on Vigour, Yield and Nutritive and Functional Quality of Greenhouse Eggplant
Authors: Sabatino Leo , Consentino Beppe , Ntatsi Georgia , La Bella Salvatore , Baldassano Sara , Rouphael Youssef
Published: April 2022

The current research investigated the effects of endophytic fungi such as Trichoderma atroviride (Ta) or Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract (An) and their combination on growth, yield, nutritive and functional features, and mineral profile of ‘Birgah’ F1 eggplant either ungrafted, self-grafted or grafted onto the Solanum torvum rootstock. Eggplant exposed to An or An+Ta had a significant increase in root collar diameter 50 days after transplanting (RCD50), total yield (TY), marketable yield (MY), ascorbic acid (AA) content, Mg, Cu, and Zn concentration, and a reduction in glycoalkaloids (GLY) compared with the control. Furthermore, grafted plants had a higher TY, MY, number of marketable fruits (NMF), RCD50, AA, Cu, and Zn and a lower SSC, GLY, and Mg than the ungrafted plants. The combination of grafting and An+Ta significantly improved mean weight of marketable fruits (MF), plant height 50 days after transplanting (PH50), number of leaves 50 days after transplanting (NL50), fruit dry matter (FDM), chlorogenic acid (ClA), proteins, and K and Fe concentration. This combination also produced fruits of high premium quality as evidenced by the higher AA and ClA concentration, the lower GLY concentration, and an overall improved mineral profile.
Overlapping Root Architecture and Gene Expression of Nitrogen Transporters for Nitrogen Acquisition of Tomato Plants Colonized with Isolates of Funneliformis mosseae in Hydroponic Production
Authors: Feng Jingyu , Lv Weixing , Xu Jing , Huang Zhe , Rui Wenjing , Lei Xihong , Ju Xuehai , Li Zhifang
Published: April 2022

Understanding the impact of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) upon the nitrogen (N) uptake of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum L.) plants is crucial for effectively utilizing these beneficial microorganisms in industrial hydroponic tomato production. Yet it remains unknown whether, besides fungal delivery, the AMF also affects N uptake via altered plant root growth or whether, together with changed N transporters expression of hosts, this impact is isolate-specific. We investigated tomato root architecture and the expression of LeAMT1.1, LeAMT1.2, and LeNRT2.3 genes in roots inoculated with five isolates of Funneliformis mosseae, these collected from different geographical locations, under greenhouse conditions with nutritional solution in coconut coir production. Our results revealed that isolate-specific AMF inoculation strongly increased the root biomass, total root length, surface area, and volume. Linear relationships were found between the total root length and N accumulation in plants. Furthermore, expression levels of LeAMT1.1, LeAMT1.2, and LeNRT2.3 were significantly up-regulated by inoculation with F. mosseae with isolate-specific. These results implied N uptake greater than predicted by root growth, and N transporters up-regulated by AMF symbiosis in an isolate-specific manner. Thus, an overlap in root biomass, architecture and expression of N transporters increase N acquisition in tomato plants in the symbiosis.
Antioxidant Capacity and Antiplatelet Activity of Aqueous Extracts of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Obtained with Microwave and Ultrasound Assisted Extraction
Authors: Rodríguez Lyanne , Plaza Andrea , Méndez Diego , Carrasco Basilio , Tellería Francisca , Palomo Iván , Fuentes Eduardo
Published: April 2022

Phaseolus vulgaris L. has beneficial effects on several chronic non-communicable diseases (e.g., cardiovascular diseases) related to oxidative stress. This redox state may influence platelet activation and aggregation; which is crucial in thrombus formation. In this work, the antiplatelet and antioxidant potential of aqueous extracts obtained by green processes, microwave-assisted extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction, from 25 landraces of common beans were investigated. Phenol content and antioxidant potential were determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method, total monomeric anthocyanin and ORAC assay, respectively. The antiplatelet potential of the extracts was explored by turbidimetry. Microwave extraction showed higher phenol content and antioxidant activity in most extracts. Soja landrace extract obtained by microwave-assisted extraction showed higher phenol content and antioxidant activity (893.45 ± 87.30 mg GAE/g and 35,642.85 ± 2588.88 ORAC μmolTE/g, respectively). Although most of the extracts obtained by microwave-assisted extraction showed antiplatelet activity, the extract of Hallado Aleman landrace obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction (IC50 = 0.152 ± 0.018 mg/mL) had the highest antiplatelet potential. The extraction method, MAE and UAE, influences the biological potential of the beans, specifically the antiplatelet activity and antioxidant activity. The functional value of this legume for direct consumption by the population was evidenced, as well as its inclusion in food formulations.
Use of Biochar to Improve the Sustainable Crop Production of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L.)
Authors: Losacco Daniela , Tumolo Marina , Cotugno Pietro , Leone Natalia , Massarelli Carmine , Convertini Stefano , Tursi Angelo , Uricchio Vito Felice , Ancona Valeria
Published: April 2022

In agriculture, biochar (B) application has been suggested as a green technology to reduce nitrate pollution from agricultural origins and improve crop yield. The agronomic impact of B use on soil has been extensively studied, while knowledge of its possible effects on horticultural cultivation is still scarce. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of using biochar in soils treated with two different rates of nitrogen fertilizers on soil properties and nitrogen (N) leachate. This study also investigated the vegetative parameters during the crop growing season of Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis. Soil mesocosms were set up to test the following treatments: untreated/control (C); normal dose of N fertilizer (130 kg N ha−1) (ND); ND+B; high dose of N fertilizer (260 kg N ha−1) (HD); and HD+B. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis were exploited to assess biochar’s ability to reduce nitrate leaching and enhance soil–vegetative properties. Biochar addition affected the soil chemical properties of the fertilized microcosms (ND and HD). Biochar increased the NH4+ content in HD soil and the NO3− content in ND soil by 26 mg/L and 48.76 mg/L, respectively. The results showed that biochar application increased the marketable cauliflower yield. In ND+B and HD+B, the curd weight was 880.68 kg and 1097.60 kg, respectively. In addition, a small number of nitrogenous compounds in the leachate were quantified in experimental lines with the biochar. Therefore, biochar use improves the marketable yield of horticulture, mitigating the negative impacts associated with the mass use of N fertilizers in agriculture.
Dual Inhibition of Phosphodiesterase and Ca++ Channels Explains the Medicinal Use of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) in Hyperactive Gut Disorders
Authors: Rehman Najeeb Ur , Ansari Mohd Nazam , Ahmad Wasim , Ahamad Syed Rizwan
Published: April 2022

The present study attempted to evaluate and rationalize the medicinal use of the methanolic extract of the fruits of Balanites aegyptiaca (B. aegyptiaca) in the treatment of hyperactive gut disorders. The in vivo, castor oil-induced diarrhea model in mice was followed to test its antidiarrheal effect. To test the antispasmodic effect and to explore its pharmacodynamic details, isolated small intestines (ileum) obtained from rats were selected to provide physiological conditions for the ex vivo assays. In the in vivo assays, the orally administered extract of B. aegyptiaca protected mice from diarrheal drops with resultant percent inhibitions of 40% and 80% at the respective doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, while the highest protection (100%) was observed with a positive control drug, loperamide, at 10 mg/kg. In the ileum, B. aegyptiaca produced an antispasmodic effect in a concentration-dependent manner by inhibiting the carbachol (CCh; 1 µM) and high K+ (80 mM)-evoked spasms with resultant EC50 values of 1.44 mg/mL (1.08–1.78) and 1.27 mg/mL (0.98–1.66), respectively. Papaverine, a known phosphodiesterase enzyme (PDE) inhibitor and blocker of Ca++ channels (CCB), also inhibited both CCh and high K+ induced contractions at comparable EC50 values of 8.72 µM (7.92–9.24) and 8.14 µM (7.62–8.84), respectively. Contrary to the extract and papaverine, verapamil showed distinctly higher potency in regard to inhibiting high K+, compared to CCh-evoked spasms that had EC50 values of 0.16 µM (0.13–0.261) and 2.54 µM (2.28–2.92), respectively. The inhibitory effects of B. aegyptiaca on PDE were further confirmed when the pre-incubated extract shifted the isoprenaline-mediated relaxation curves (CRCs) towards the left, similar to papaverine, whereas the CCB-like effect was confirmed when the pre-incubated tissues with B. aegyptiaca caused deflection in the Ca++ CRCs towards the right, constructed in Ca++ free medium with suppression of the maximum response. Thus, this study provides detailed, mechanistic support for the medicinal use of B. aegyptiaca in the treatment of hyperactive gut disorders.
CRISPR/Cas9 Mediated Knockout of the OsbHLH024 Transcription Factor Improves Salt Stress Resistance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Alam Mohammad Shah , Kong Jiarui , Tao Ruofu , Ahmed Temoor , Alamin Md. , Alotaibi Saqer S. , Abdelsalam Nader R. , Xu Jian-Hong
Published: April 2022

Salinity stress is one of the most prominent abiotic stresses that negatively affect crop production. Transcription factors (TFs) are involved in the absorption, transport, or compartmentation of sodium (Na+) or potassium (K+) to resist salt stress. The basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) is a TF gene family critical for plant growth and stress responses, including salinity. Herein, we used the CRISPR/Cas9 strategy to generate the gene editing mutant to investigate the role of OsbHLH024 in rice under salt stress. The A nucleotide base deletion was identified in the osbhlh024 mutant (A91). Exposure of the A91 under salt stress resulted in a significant increase in the shoot weight, the total chlorophyll content, and the chlorophyll fluorescence. Moreover, high antioxidant activities coincided with less reactive oxygen species (ROS) and stabilized levels of MDA in the A91. This better control of oxidative stress was accompanied by fewer Na+ but more K+, and a balanced level of Ca2+, Zn2+, and Mg2+ in the shoot and root of the A91, allowing it to withstand salt stress. Furthermore, the A91 also presented a significantly up-regulated expression of the ion transporter genes (OsHKT1;3, OsHAK7, and OsSOS1) in the shoot when exposed to salt stress. These findings imply that the OsbHLH024 might play the role of a negative regulator of salt stress, which will help to understand better the molecular basis of rice production improvement under salt stress.
Rubber Rail Pad Reinforced by Modified Silica Using GPTMS and Sulfenamide Accelerator
Authors: Suntako Rudeerat
Published: April 2022

The interaction between silica and rubber is very important for the production of high performance rubber. Silica surface modification with silane is a general method that aims to enhance the reinforcement efficiency of silica. In this study, a new surface modification of silica with silane and the chemical reaction with sulfenamide accelerator were investigated. The (gamma-glycidoxypropyl) trimethoxysilane (GPTMS) was used as a silane. The N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazole sulfenamide (CBS) and N-tert-butyl-2-benzothiazole sulfenamide (TBBS) were used as sulfenamide accelerators. The FTIR spectra results indicate that the GPTMS and sulfenamide accelerators (CBS and TBBS) could successfully form on the silica surface. The new modification is capable of significantly enhancing the reinforcement efficiency; more than the conventional silica surface modification by GPTMS (m-silica). In particular, modifying silica with GPTMS and TBBS (m-silica-TBBS) is capable of increasing the crosslink density and mechanical properties more efficiently than modified silica with GPTMS and CBS (m-silica-CBS), m-silica, silica (unmodified), and unfilled natural rubber. This is due to the presence of GPTMS, which plays an important role in increasing the chemical cross-linking in the rubber chain, while TBBS, as a sulfenamide accelerator, provides a high accelerator to sulfur ratio, which is able to give a more efficient vulcanization. With the reinforcement of a rubber rail pad with silica surface modification, the results indicate that the increment of m-silica-TBBS loading could reduce the deformation percentage of the rubber rail pad more than m-silica and m-silica loading. This is mainly due to the static spring improvement, which results in a stiffer material.
Effect of the Adhesive System on the Properties of Fiberboard Panels Bonded with Hydrolysis Lignin and Phenol-Formaldehyde Resin
Authors: Savov Viktor , Valchev Ivo , Antov Petar , Yordanov Ivaylo , Popski Zlatomir
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to propose an alternative technological solution for manufacturing fiberboard panels using a modified hot-pressing regime and hydrolysis lignin as the main binder. The main novelty of the research is the optimized adhesive system composed of unmodified hydrolysis lignin and reduced phenol–formaldehyde (PF) resin content. The fiberboard panels were fabricated in the laboratory with a very low PF resin content, varying from 1% to 3.6%, and hydrolysis lignin addition levels varying from 7% to 10.8% (based on the dry wood fibers). A specific two-stage hot-pressing regime, including initial low pressure of 1.2 MPa and subsequent high pressure of 4 MPa, was applied. The effect of binder content and PF resin content in the adhesive system on the main properties of fiberboards (water absorption, thickness swelling, bending strength, modulus of elasticity, and internal bond strength) was investigated, and appropriate optimization was performed to define the optimal content of PF resin and hydrolysis lignin for complying with European standards. It was concluded that the proposed technology is suitable for manufacturing fiberboard panels fulfilling the strictest EN standard. Markedly, it was shown that for the production of this type of panels, the minimum total content of binders should be 10.6%, and the PF resin content should be at least 14% of the adhesive system.
A Solvent-Free Approach to Crosslinked Hydrophobic Polymeric Coatings on Paper Using Vegetable Oil
Authors: Loesch-Zhang Amelia , Cordt Cynthia , Geissler Andreas , Biesalski Markus
Published: April 2022

Hydrophobic coatings are of utmost importance for many applications of paper-based materials. However, to date, most coating methods demand vast amounts of chemicals and solvents. Frequently, fossil-based coating materials are being used and multiple derivatization reactions are often required to obtain desired performances. In this work, we present a solvent-free paper-coating process, where olive oil as the main biogenic component is being used to obtain a hydrophobic barrier on paper. UV-induced thiol-ene photocrosslinking of olive oil was pursued in a solvent-free state at a wavelength of 254 nm without addition of photoinitiator. Optimum reaction conditions were determined in advance using oleic acid as a model compound. Paper coatings based on olive oil crosslinked by thiol-ene reaction reach water contact angles of up to 120°. By means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry, a successful reaction and the formation of a polymer network within the coating can be proven. These results show that click-chemistry strategies can be used to achieve hydrophobic polymeric paper coatings while keeping the amount of non-biobased chemicals and reaction steps at a minimum.
Effects of Substrate and Cement Shade on the Translucency and Color of CAD/CAM Lithium-Disilicate and Zirconia Ceramic Materials
Authors: Comba Allegra , Paolone Gaetano , Baldi Andrea , Vichi Alessandro , Goracci Cecilia , Bertozzi Giulia , Scotti Nicola
Published: April 2022

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of substrate and cement shades on the translucency and color of lithium-disilicate and zirconia CAD/CAM materials. Two light-cured resin cements (RelyX Veneer Cement; 3M; Choice 2 Veneer Cement; Bisco Dental) with a standardized thickness (0.1 mm) were tested in combination with two different monolithic CAD/CAM materials (E-Max CAD (LI2SI2O5); Ivoclar Vivadent; Katana (ZrO2); Kuraray-Noritake Dental) on two different colored composite substrates used as a dentin (Filtek Supreme XTE; 3M); for a total of 12 combinations (n = 10). The specimens’ color was measured with a spectrophotometer (Spectroshade; MHT). Measurements were taken using the CIELAB color coordinate system (L*a*b*) against black and white backgrounds. L*a*b* values were statistically analyzed for the variables Substrate, Ceramic, and Cement by applying a Three-Way ANOVA followed by the Tukey Test for post-hoc comparison (p < 0.05). Translucency Parameter (TP) and Constant Ratio (CR) were assessed to evaluate translucency; acceptability and perceptibility thresholds (ΔE00 1.8 and 0.8) were used. Statistically significant influence was found for factors ceramic material, cement shade, and substrate color (p < 0.05). Unacceptable color differences were reported for Li2Si2O5. Opacity was significantly higher when white opaque cement shade was employed. Ceramic type and cement shade significantly influenced L*a*b* color coordinates. The final translucency and color of ceramic restorations can, therefore, be influenced by ceramic material, cement shade, and substrate color.
Preparation and Characterization of PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 Micro/Nanofiber-Based Gas Sensors
Authors: Shiu Bing-Chiuan , Liu Yan-Ling , Yuan Qian-Yu , Lou Ching-Wen , Lin Jia-Horng
Published: April 2022

In this study, we employed electrospinning technology and in situ polymerization to prepare wearable and highly sensitive PVP/PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 micro/nanofiber gas sensors. PEDOT, PEDOT:PSS, and TiO2 were prepared via in situ polymerization and tested for characteristic peaks using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), then characterized using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), a four-point probe resistance measurement, and a gas sensor test system. The gas sensitivity was 3.46–12.06% when ethanol with a concentration between 12.5 ppm and 6250 ppm was measured; 625 ppm of ethanol was used in the gas sensitivity measurements for the PEDOT/composite conductive woven fabrics, PVP/PEDOT:PSS nanofiber membranes, and PVP/PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 micro/nanofiber gas sensors. The latter exhibited the highest gas sensitivity, which was 5.52% and 2.35% greater than that of the PEDOT/composite conductive woven fabrics and PVP/PEDOT:PSS nanofiber membranes, respectively. In addition, the influence of relative humidity on the performance of the PVP/PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 micro/nanofiber gas sensors was examined. The electrical sensitivity decreased with a decrease in ethanol concentration. The gas sensitivity exhibited a linear relationship with relative humidity lower than 75%; however, when the relative humidity was higher than 75%, the gas sensitivity showed a highly non-linear correlation. The test results indicated that the PVP/PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 micro/nanofiber gas sensors were flexible and highly sensitive to gas, qualifying them for use as a wearable gas sensor platform at room temperature. The proposed gas sensors demonstrated vital functions and an innovative design for the development of a smart wearable device.
Development and Characterization of Chitosan and Porphyran Based Composite Edible Films Containing Ginger Essential Oil
Authors: Al-Harrasi Ahmed , Bhtaia Saurabh , Al-Azri Mohammed Said , Makeen Hafiz A. , Albratty Mohammed , Alhazmi Hassan A. , Mohan Syam , Sharma Ajay , Behl Tapan
Published: April 2022

Recent research shows the growing interest in the development of composite edible films (EFs) by using multiple biopolymers for the substantial improvement in the shelf life and quality of food products, via preventing oxidation among other benefits. In the present work, EFs based on chitosan (CS) and porphyran (POR) loaded with ginger essential oil (GEO) have been developed to study the effect of GEO, glycerol (Gly), and POR on the film structure as well as physical and antioxidant properties. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed the level of crystallinity and electrostatic interactions between CS, POR, Gly, and GEO. It was found that electrostatic interactions between CS and POR and the incorporation of GEO substantially improved barrier, thermal, optical, and mechanical properties and reduced the moisture content, swelling index, and thickness values. The color values of the S5 film altered apparently with a shift towards yellowness. SEM micrographs of the composite CS-POR-GEO film (S5) showed improved morphological attributes such as more uniformity and homogeneous structure than other films (S1–S4). Results obtained from total phenolic content assay suggested the presence of high phenolic components (5.97 ± 0.01) mg of GAE/g in GEO. Further, findings obtained from antioxidant assays revealed that the addition of GEO and POR significantly increased the antioxidant effects of CS films. All these findings suggested that GEO loaded CS-POR based films showed better physical and chemical properties with a significant improvement in antioxidant potential and thus can be used as a potential packaging material in the food industry.