bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide Reusable Medical Device Sterilization Cycle Development: Technology Review and Patent Trends
Authors: Karimi Estahbanati M. R.
Published: October 2023

Vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP) terminal sterilization is one of the most promising techniques for sterilizing temperature-sensitive medical instruments like endoscopes. This technique requires only electricity and sterilant containers to perform the sterilization process in less than 1 h without any substantial safety concerns for patients, personnel, and the environment. This review studies recent advances and future trends in VHP sterilization cycle development using U.S. patent applications and 510(k) premarket notifications. In this regard, the patents focused on increasing VHP concentration or handling residual moisture are discussed in depth. The expired patents are analyzed to introduce existing unencumbered technologies, and active patents are presented to show the most current novelties and technology trends. In addition, 510(k) premarket notifications are explored to evaluate implemented technologies in US market-leading commercial products.
Natural Antimicrobials: A Reservoir to Contrast Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Ricci Annalisa , Lazzi Camilla , Bernini Valentina
Published: October 2023

Natural environments possess a reservoir of compounds exerting antimicrobial activity that are forms of defence for some organisms against others. Recently, they have become more and more attractive in the food sector due to the increasing demand for natural compounds that have the capacity to protect food from pathogenic microorganisms. Among foodborne pathogens, Listeria monocytogenes can contaminate food during production, distribution, or storage, and its presence is especially detected in fresh, raw food and ready-to-eat products. The interest in this microorganism is related to listeriosis, a severe disease with a high mortality rate that can occur after its ingestion. Starting from this premise, the present review aims to investigate plant extract and fermented plant matrices, as well as the compounds or mixtures of compounds produced during microbial fermentation processes that have anti-listeria activity.
Physiological and Genomic Characterization of a Novel Obligately Chemolithoautotrophic, Sulfur-Oxidizing Bacterium of Genus Thiomicrorhabdus Isolated from a Coastal Sediment
Authors: Gao Yu , Zhu Han , Wang Jun , Shao Zongze , Wei Shiping , Wang Ruicheng , Cheng Ruolin , Jiang Lijing
Published: October 2023

Thiomicrorhabdus species, belonging to the family Piscirickettsiaceae in the phylum Pseudomonadotav are usually detected in various sulfur-rich marine environments. However, only a few bacteria of Thiomicrorhabdus have been isolated, and their ecological roles and environmental adaptations still require further understanding. Here, we report a novel strain, XGS-01T, isolated from a coastal sediment, which belongs to genus Thiomicrorhabdus and is most closely related to Thiomicrorhabdus hydrogeniphila MAS2T, with a sequence similarity of 97.8%. Phenotypic characterization showed that XGS-01T is a mesophilic, sulfur-oxidizing, obligate chemolithoautotrophy, with carbon dioxide as its sole carbon source and oxygen as its sole electron acceptor. During thiosulfate oxidation, strain XGS-01T can produce extracellular sulfur of elemental α-S8, as confirmed via scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectromicroscopy. Polyphasic taxonomy results indicate that strain XGS-01T represents a novel species of the genus Thiomicrorhabdus, named Thiomicrorhabdus lithotrophica sp. nov. Genomic analysis confirmed that XGS-01T performed thiosulfate oxidation through a sox multienzyme complex, and harbored fcc and sqr genes for sulfide oxidation. Comparative genomics analysis among five available genomes from Thiomicrorhabdus species revealed that carbon fixation via the oxidation of reduced-sulfur compounds coupled with oxygen reduction is conserved metabolic pathways among members of genus Thiomicrorhabdus.
Hemolysis by Saponin Is Accelerated at Hypertonic Conditions
Authors: Paarvanova Boyana , Tacheva Bilyana , Savova Gergana , Karabaliev Miroslav , Georgieva Radostina
Published: October 2023

Saponins are a large group of organic amphiphilic substances (surfactants) mainly extracted from herbs with biological activity, considered as one of the main ingredients in numerous remedies used in traditional medicine since ancient times. Anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, antitumor, antioxidant and many other properties have been confirmed for some. There is increasing interest in the elucidation of the mechanisms behind the effects of saponins on different cell types at the molecular level. In this regard, erythrocytes are a very welcome model, having very simple structures with no organelles. They react to changing external conditions and substances by changing shape or volume, with damage to their membrane ultimately leading to hemolysis. Hemolysis can be followed spectrophotometrically and provides valuable information about the type and extent of membrane damage. We investigated hemolysis of erythrocytes induced by various saponin concentrations in hypotonic, isotonic and hypertonic media using measurements of real time and end-point hemolysis. The osmotic pressure was adjusted by different concentrations of NaCl, manitol or a NaCl/manitol mixture. Unexpectedly, at a fixed saponin concentration, hemolysis was accelerated at hypertonic conditions, but was much faster in NaCl compared to mannitol solutions at the same osmotic pressure. These findings confirm the colloid-osmotic mechanism behind saponin hemolysis with pore formation with increasing size in the membrane.
Development of a Ratiometric Fluorescent Cu(II) Indicator Based on Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) Thermal Phase Transition and an Aminopyridyl Cu(II) Ligand
Authors: Nyiranshuti Lea , Andrews Emily R. , Povolotskiy Leonid I. , Gomez Frances M. , Bartlett Nathan R. , Royappa Arun Timothy , Rheingold Arnold L. , Seitz William Rudolf , Planalp Roy P.
Published: October 2023

An aqueous Cu2+ and Zn2+ indicator is reported based on copolymerizing aminopyridine ligands and the environment-sensitive dansyl fluorophore into the responsive polymer poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm). The metal ion binding creates charge and solvation that triggers PNIPAm’s thermal phase transition from hydrophobic globule to hydrophilic open coil. As a basis for sensing the metal-binding, the dansyl fluorescence emission spectra provide a signal at ca. 530 nm and a signal at 500 nm for the hydrophobic and hydrophilic environment, respectively, that are ratiometrically interpreted. The synthesis of the title pyridylethyl-pyridylmethyl-amine ligand (acronym PEPMA) with a 3-carbon linker to the copolymerizable group, aminopropylacrylamide (PEPMA-C3-acrylamide), is reported, along with a nonpolymerizable model ligand derivative. The response of the polymer is validated by increasing temperature from 25 °C to 49 °C, which causes a shift in maximum emission wavelength from 536 nm to 505 nm, along with an increase in the ratio of emission intensity of 505 nm/536 nm from 0.77 to 1.22 (λex = 330 nm) as the polymer releases water. The addition of divalent Cu or Zn to the indicator resulted in a dansyl emission shift of 10 nm to a longer wavelength, accompanied by fluorescence quenching in the case of Cu2+. The addition of EDTA to the Cu2+-loaded indicator reversed the fluorescence shift at 25 °C to 35 °C. The affinities of Cu2+ and Zn2+ for the PEPMA derivatives are log Kf = 11.85 and log Kf = 5.67, respectively, as determined by potentiometric titration. The single-crystal X-ray structure of the Cu2+-PEPMA derivative is five-coordinate, of-geometry intermediate between square-pyramidal and trigonal-bipyramidal, and is comparable to that of Cu2+ complexes with similar formation constants.
Optical and Electrochemical Properties of a Photosensitive Pyromellitic Diimide Derivative of Cymantrene
Authors: Kelbysheva Elena S. , Ezernitskaya Mariam G. , Aysin Rinat R. , Strelkova Tatyana V. , Rodionov Alexey N. , Telegina Lyudmila N.
Published: October 2023

Photochemical properties of symmetrical pyromellitic diimide containing two cymantrenyl fragments at two nitrogen atoms were studied with IR, NMR, UV-vis, ESI-MS, and cyclic voltammetry. It was found that new unstable chelates are formed during photolysis. At the same time, the CO ligand dissociates from two Mn(CO)3 fragments during photoexcitation, which dramatically changes the electronic and redox properties of the molecule compared to the cymantrene derivative containing one imide fragment. Photolysis leads to a color change from light yellow to green. DFT calculations confirmed the possibility of the formation of complexes due to the loss of one or two CO ligands from manganese atoms. The results obtained with variation of photolysis conditions demonstrated the hemilabile character of the Mn-O=C(imide) bond. On addition of external ligands, the color and electrochemical properties changed, which is promising for the use of this complex as a sensor for small molecules.
Silica-Based Stationary Phase with Surface Bound N-Acetyl-glucosamine for Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Rajendiran Vaithilingam , El Rassi Ziad
Published: October 2023

A hydrophilic silica-based stationary phase with surface bound N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc-silica) was prepared in house and characterized physically via Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and chromatographically over a wide range of mobile phase compositions. While both FTIR and TGA confirmed the attachment of the GlcNAc ligands to the silica surface, the chromatographic evaluation of GlcNAc-silica with polar and slightly polar standard solutes (e.g., sugars, nucleic acid fragments, phenolic, and benzoic acid derivatives) yielded the typical hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) behaviors in the sense that retention increased with increases in solute polarity and the organic content (i.e., acetonitrile) of the hydro-organic mobile phase (i.e., ACN-rich mobile phase). Sugars derivatized with 1-naphthylamine (1-NA) and 2-aminoanthrcene (2-AA) such as xylose, glucose, and short chains maltooligosaccharides constituted the most polar species for HILIC retention evaluation, and in addition, the maltooligosaccharides offered a polar homologous series for gauging the hydrophilicity of GlcNAc-silica in analogy with alkylbenzene homologous series and other nonpolar homologues for evaluating the hydrophobicity of non-polar stationary phases. On the other hand, the benzoic acid and phenolic acid derivatives were the probe solutes for evaluating the HILIC retention dependence of ionizable solutes on the pH of the mobile phase. Similarly, the nucleobase and nucleoside weak basic solutes as well as some typical cyclic nucleotide acidic solutes allowed for the examination of the dependence of solute retention on the pH of the mobile as well as the polarity of the species.
One-Step Fabrication of Recyclable Konjac Glucomannan-Based Magnetic Nanoparticles for Highly Efficient Cr(VI) Adsorption
Authors: Zhang Jianjuan , Ren Huiyun , Fan Honglei , Zhou Shaofeng , Huang Jin
Published: October 2023

Recently, the natural polymer polysaccharide konjac glucomannan (KGM) has received attention as a promising adsorbent in water treatment due to its low toxicity, cost-effectiveness and biocompatibility. However, the high-level water absorbency of KGM makes it difficult to recover in water treatment. In this study, by combining KGM with magnetic nanoparticles, KGM-based magnetic nanoparticles (KGM-Fe3O4 NPs) with excellent adsorption properties and recyclability for heavy metals were prepared using an one-step precipitation method. The as-prepared KGM-Fe3O4 NPs have a spherical morphology of superparamagnetism with a small particle size (ca. 7.0 nm) and a large specific surface area (160.1 m2·g−1). Taking Cr(VI) as the target heavy metal ion, the above nanoparticles have a high adsorption capacity and fast adsorption rate for Cr(VI). The pseudo-second order kinetic model is more suitable to describe the adsorption process of Cr(VI) by KGM-Fe3O4 NPs, and the maximum adsorption capacity of Cr(VI) onto KGM-Fe3O4 NPs was calculated to be 41.67 mg·g−1 using the Langmuir isotherm model. In addition, KGM-Fe3O4 NPs with adsorbed heavy metal ions can be quickly recovered from a solution, regenerated, and reused in the next cycle. KGM-based Fe3O4 nanoparticles are promising adsorbents that show significant reusability for the removal of metal ions in water and wastewater treatment.
New Fluorophore and Its Applications in Visualizing Polystyrene Nanoplastics in Bean Sprouts and HeLa Cells
Authors: Xing Guo-Wen , Gao Jerry , Wang Heng , Liu Yi-Chen
Published: October 2023

In the domain of environmental science, pollutants of nanoscale plastic dimensions are acknowledged as subjects of intricate significance. Such entities, though minuscule, present formidable challenges to ecological systems and human health. The diminutive dimensions of these contaminants render their detection arduous, thus demanding the inception of avant-garde methodologies. The present manuscript postulates the employment of the tetraphenylethylene functional group with a fused xanthene (TPEF), a distinguished fluorophore, as an exemplary system for the discernment of nanoplastic particulates. The synthesis and characterization of TPEF have been exhaustively elucidated, revealing its paramount fluorescence attributes and inherent affinity for interaction with nanoplastics. When subjected to comparison with TPEF, nanoplastics are observed to manifest a more pronounced fluorescent luminescence than when associated with the conventional Nile Red (NR). Particularly, the TPEF has shown exceptional affinity for polystyrene (PS) nanoplastics. Further, the resilience of nanoplastics within the hypocotyl epidermis of soybeans, as well as their persistence in mung bean sprouts subsequent to rigorous rinsing protocols, has been meticulously examined. Additionally, this investigation furnishes empirical data signifying the existence of nano-dimensional plastic contaminants within HeLa cellular structures. The urgency of addressing the environmental ramifications engendered by these diminutive yet potent plastic constituents is emphatically highlighted in this manuscript. TPEF paves the way for prospective explorations, with the aspiration of devising efficacious mitigation strategies. Such strategies might encompass delineating the trajectories undertaken by nanoplastics within trophic networks or their ingress into human cellular architectures.
Effects of Microplastic (MP) Exposure at Environmentally Relevant Doses on the Structure, Function, and Transcriptome of the Kidney in Mice
Authors: Shen Ting , Zhang Wenjing , Wang Yirun , Li Haizhu , Wu Jingwei , Wang Qian , Qin Li , Zhang Lu , Liu Cuiqing , Li Ran
Published: October 2023

As a common emerging environmental pollutant, microplastics (MPs) have been detected in a variety of environmental media and human bodies. The potential toxic effects and mechanisms of MPs need to be revealed urgently. MPs can be deposited in the kidney, and exposure to high doses of MPs can cause nephrotoxicity in experimental animals. In this study, we investigated the effects of exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) at environmentally relevant doses (0.1 and 1 mg/L) on kidney structure, function, and transcriptome in mice. We found that mice exposed to PS-MPs in drinking water for eight weeks had no change in body weight or kidney coefficient. PS-MPs administration decreased the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) in mice, while serum creatinine (CRE) and uric acid (UA) concentrations were unaffected. Through using periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) and Masson staining, we discovered that the glomerular tuft area increased in the PS-MP-treated mice, while the degree of renal fibrosis remained unchanged. Furthermore, renal cortex transcriptomic analysis identified 388 and 303 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the 0.1 and 1 mg/L dose groups, respectively. The DEGs were highly enriched in mitochondrial-related terms and pathways of thermogenesis and oxidative phosphorylation. Moreover, protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis revealed that cytochrome b-c1 complex subunit 10 (UQCR11) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 3 (MT-CO3) were important node proteins. These findings suggest that environmental exposure to MPs can cause abnormalities in renal structure and filtration function and that long-term exposure to MPs may be a risk factor for renal disease.
Broadband Achromatic Metalens for Tunable Focused Vortex Beam Generation in the Near-Infrared Range
Authors: Zhao Lvrong , Jiang Xiaoqiang , Wang Zhihai , Chen Yuwei , Chen Lu , Gao Bo , Yu Weixing
Published: October 2023

Vortex beams accompanied with orbital angular momentum have attracted significant attention in research fields due to their formidable capabilities in various crucial applications. However, conventional devices for generating vortex beams still suffer from bulky sizes, high cost, and confined performances. Metalens, as an advanced platform to arbitrarily control the optical waves, has promising prospects to address the predicament for conventional devices. Although great progress has been demonstrated in the applications of vortex beams, they are still confronted with fixed functionality after fabrication that severely hinders their application range. In this work, the phase-change material of Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) is employed to design the meta-atoms to realize tunable optical responses. Moreover, the focused vortex beam can be accomplished by superimposing a helical phase and hyperbolic phase, and the chromatic aberrations in near-infrared (NIR) range can be corrected by introducing an additional phase compensation. And the design strategy is validated by two different metalenses (BAMTF-1 and BAMTF-2). The numerical results indicate that the chromatic aberrations for two metalens can be corrected in 1.33–1.60 μm covering the telecom range. Moreover, the average focusing efficiency of BAMTF-1 is 51.4%, and that of BAMTF-2 is 39.9%, indicating the favorable performances of designed BAMTF. More importantly, their average focal lengths have a relative tuning range of 38.82% and 33.17% by altering the crystallization ratio of GST, respectively. This work may provide a significant scheme for on-chip and tunable devices for NIR imaging and communication systems.
Crosstalk between Non-Coding RNAs and Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Head and Neck Cancer: Identification of Novel Biomarkers and Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Sajeev Anjana , BharathwajChetty Bandari , Vishwa Ravichandran , Alqahtani Mohammed S. , Abbas Mohamed , Sethi Gautam , Kunnumakkara Ajaikumar B.
Published: October 2023

Head and neck cancers (HNC) encompass a broad spectrum of neoplastic disorders characterized by significant morbidity and mortality. While contemporary therapeutic interventions offer promise, challenges persist due to tumor recurrence and metastasis. Central to HNC pathogenesis is the aberration in numerous signaling cascades. Prominently, the Wnt signaling pathway has been critically implicated in the etiology of HNC, as supported by a plethora of research. Equally important, variations in the expression of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been identified to modulate key cancer phenotypes such as cellular proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastatic potential, recurrence, and treatment resistance. This review aims to provide an exhaustive insight into the multifaceted influence of ncRNAs on HNC, with specific emphasis on their interactions with the Wnt/β-catenin (WBC) signaling axis. We further delineate the effect of ncRNAs in either exacerbating or attenuating HNC progression via interference with WBC signaling. An overview of the mechanisms underlying the interplay between ncRNAs and WBC signaling is also presented. In addition, we described the potential of various ncRNAs in enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapeutic and radiotherapeutic modalities. In summary, this assessment posits the potential of ncRNAs as therapeutic agents targeting the WBC signaling pathway in HNC management.
Differential Responders to a Mixed Meal Tolerance Test Associated with Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors and Gut Microbiota—Data from the MEDGI-Carb Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Skantze Viktor , Hjorth Therese , Wallman Mikael , Brunius Carl , Dicksved Johan , Pelve Erik A. , Esberg Anders , Vitale Marilena , Giacco Rosalba , Costabile Giuseppina , Bergia Robert E. , Jirstrand Mats , Campbell Wayne W. , Riccardi Gabriele , Landberg Rikard
Published: October 2023

The global prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has surged in recent decades, and the identification of differential glycemic responders can aid tailored treatment for the prevention of prediabetes and T2DM. A mixed meal tolerance test (MMTT) based on regular foods offers the potential to uncover differential responders in dynamical postprandial events. We aimed to fit a simple mathematical model on dynamic postprandial glucose data from repeated MMTTs among participants with elevated T2DM risk to identify response clusters and investigate their association with T2DM risk factors and gut microbiota. Data were used from a 12-week multi-center dietary intervention trial involving high-risk T2DM adults, comparing high- versus low-glycemic index foods within a Mediterranean diet context (MEDGICarb). Model-based analysis of MMTTs from 155 participants (81 females and 74 males) revealed two distinct plasma glucose response clusters that were associated with baseline gut microbiota. Cluster A, inversely associated with HbA1c and waist circumference and directly with insulin sensitivity, exhibited a contrasting profile to cluster B. Findings imply that a standardized breakfast MMTT using regular foods could effectively distinguish non-diabetic individuals at varying risk levels for T2DM using a simple mechanistic model.
Oral Hypofunction and Risk of Weight Change among Independent Older Adults
Authors: Shiota Chihiro , Kusama Taro , Takeuchi Kenji , Kiuchi Sakura , Osaka Ken
Published: October 2023

Oral health is essential for nutritional status; however, little is known about its association with weight change. This study aimed to investigate whether the risk of weight change differs according to the presence of each important component of oral hypofunction (fewer remaining teeth, low chewing efficiency, swallowing problems, and xerostomia) among independent older adults. This was a three-year follow-up cohort study based on self-reported questionnaires. The participants were independent older adults aged ≥65 from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES). We used >5% weight loss/gain during follow-up as the outcome variables, and the number of remaining teeth (≥20/10–19/0–9), the presence of chewing difficulty, swallowing problems, and xerostomia (yes/no) as the exposure variables. We fitted the Poisson regression model, including possible confounders to estimate the risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). For weight loss, RRs were significantly higher among those with 0–9 remaining teeth (RR = 1.17; 95% CI = 1.11–1.23), chewing difficulty (RR = 1.12; 95% CI = 1.07–1.16), and xerostomia (RR = 1.11; 95% CI = 1.06–1.16), but there was no significant association with swallowing problems (RR = 1.01; 95% CI = 0.97–1.06). For weight gain, we also found similar associations with oral hypofunction. Oral hypofunction among older adults could have non-negligible health impacts on nutritional status.
Heavy Metal-Based Nanoparticles as High-Performance X-ray Computed Tomography Contrast Agents
Authors: Ahmad Mohammad Yaseen , Liu Shuwen , Tegafaw Tirusew , Saidi Abdullah Khamis Ali Al , Zhao Dejun , Liu Ying , Nam Sung-Wook , Chang Yongmin , Lee Gang Ho
Published: October 2023

X-ray computed tomography (CT) contrast agents offer extremely valuable tools and techniques in diagnostics via contrast enhancements. Heavy metal-based nanoparticles (NPs) can provide high contrast in CT images due to the high density of heavy metal atoms with high X-ray attenuation coefficients that exceed that of iodine (I), which is currently used in hydrophilic organic CT contrast agents. Nontoxicity and colloidal stability are vital characteristics in designing heavy metal-based NPs as CT contrast agents. In addition, a small particle size is desirable for in vivo renal excretion. In vitro phantom imaging studies have been performed to obtain X-ray attenuation efficiency, which is a critical parameter for CT contrast agents, and the imaging performance of CT contrast agents has been demonstrated via in vivo experiments. In this review, we focus on the in vitro and in vivo studies of various heavy metal-based NPs in pure metallic or chemical forms, including Au, Pt, Pd, Ag, Ce, Gd, Dy, Ho, Yb, Ta, W, and Bi, and provide an outlook on their use as high-performance CT contrast agents.
Elsholtzia ciliata Essential Oil Exhibits a Smooth Muscle Relaxant Effect
Authors: Martišienė Irma , Zigmantaitė Vilma , Pudžiuvelytė Lauryna , Bernatonienė Jurga , Jurevičius Jonas
Published: October 2023

A recent in vivo study in pigs demonstrated the hypotensive properties of essential oil extracted from the blossoming plant Elsholtzia ciliata. This study was designed to examine the effect of E. ciliata essential oil (EO) on smooth muscle contraction. Tension measurements were performed on prostate strips and intact aortic rings isolated from rats. Results showed that EO caused a concentration-dependent reduction in phenylephrine-induced contraction of both the prostate and aorta, with a more pronounced inhibitory effect in the prostate. The IC50 of EO for the prostate was 0.24 ± 0.03 µL/mL (n = 10) and for the aorta was 0.72 ± 0.11 µL/mL (n = 4, p < 0.05 vs. prostate). The chromatographic analysis identified elsholtzia ketone (10.64%) and dehydroelsholtzia ketone (86.23%) as the predominant compounds in the tested EO. Since both compounds feature a furan ring within their molecular structure, other furan ring-containing compounds, 2-acetylfuran (2AF) and 5-methylfurfural (5MFF), were examined. For the first time, our study demonstrated the relaxant effects of 2AF and 5MFF on smooth muscles. Further, results showed that EO, 2AF, and 5MFF altered the responsiveness of prostate smooth muscle cells to phenylephrine. Under control conditions, the EC50 of phenylephrine was 0.18 ± 0.03 µM (n = 5), while in the presence of EO, 2AF, or 5MFF, the EC50 values were 0.81 ± 0.3 µM (n = 5), 0.89 ± 0.11 µM (n = 5), and 0.69 ± 0.23 µM (n = 4), respectively, p < 0.05 vs. control. Analysis of the affinity of EO for α1-adrenergic receptors in the prostate suggested that EO at a certain range of concentrations has a competitive antagonistic effect on α1-adrenergic receptors. In conclusion, EO elicits a relaxant effect on smooth muscles which may be related to the inhibition of α1-adrenoreceptors.
Bio-Fabricated Silver Nanoparticles from the Leaf Extract of the Poisonous Plant, Holigarna arnottiana: Assessment of Antimicrobial, Antimitotic, Anticancer, and Radical-Scavenging Properties
Authors: Ajaykumar Anthyalam Parambil , Sabira Ovungal , Binitha Valiyaparambil Sivadasan , Varma Sudhir Rama , Mathew Anjaly , Jayaraj Kodangattil Narayanan , Janish Pandikkadan Ayyappan , Zeena Koladath Vasu , Sheena Padannappurath , Venugopal Veena , Palakkapparambil Priyanka , Aswathi
Published: October 2023

This study presents a novel approach to fabricate silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the poisonous plant, Holigarna arnottiana leaf extract. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by a color change from green to dark brown and validated by UV analysis. FTIR analysis identified functional groups on the AgNPs, while Zeta potential analysis assessed their stability. TEM analysis established an average diameter of 18 nm and a spherical morphology for the nanoparticles. LC MS analysis coupled with database searches revealed the presence of diverse bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, nucleotides, dipeptides, enzymes, and glycosides. These compounds are postulated to act as reducing agents in the leaf extract-mediated synthesis process. Moreover, the bio-fabricated AgNPs exhibited noteworthy anticancer properties against DLA cells. In addition, AgNPs displayed substantial antimitotic effects in an assay involving Allium cepa root cells. These findings underscore the potential of the AgNPs as cytotoxic agents. The biosynthesized AgNPs showed antimicrobial activity against various bacterial pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, the AgNPs exhibited outstanding radical-scavenging properties in the DPPH assay, suggesting their potential application in antioxidant therapies. The study collectively highlights the successful synthesis of AgNPs through a green, biocompatible approach, and demonstrates their promising potential for anticancer, antimitotic, and radical-scavenging applications.
Antibacterial Activity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Loaded with Essential Oils
Authors: Motelica Ludmila , Vasile Bogdan-Stefan , Ficai Anton , Surdu Adrian-Vasile , Ficai Denisa , Oprea Ovidiu-Cristian , Andronescu Ecaterina , Mustățea Gabriel , Ungureanu Elena Loredana , Dobre Alina Alexandra
Published: October 2023

One major problem with the overuse of antibiotics is that the microorganisms acquire resistance; thus the dose must be increased unsustainably. To overcome this problem, researchers from around the world are actively investigating new types of antimicrobials. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) have been proven to exhibit strong antimicrobial effects; moreover, the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) considers ZnO as GRAS (generally recognized as safe). Many essential oils have antimicrobial activity and their components do not generate resistance over time. One of the drawbacks is the high volatility of some components, which diminishes the antimicrobial action as they are eliminated. The combination of ZnO NPs and essential oils can synergistically produce a stronger antimicrobial effect, and some of the volatile compounds can be retained on the nanoparticles’ surface, ensuring a better-lasting antimicrobial effect. The samples were characterized with X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and thermal analysis (TG-DSC) coupled with analysis of evolved gases using FTIR. The ZnO NPs, with a size of ~35 nm, exhibited a loading between 1.44% and 15.62%—the lower values were specific for limonene-containing oils (e.g., orange, grapefruit, bergamot, or limette), while high values were obtained from cinnamon, minzol, thyme, citronella, and lavender oils—highlighting differences among non-polar terpenes and alcohol or aldehyde derivatives. The antibacterial assay indicated the existence of a synergic action among components and a high dependency on the percentage of loaded oil. Loaded nanoparticles offer immense potential for the development of materials with specific applications, such as wound dressings or food packaging. These nanoparticles can be utilized in scenarios where burst delivery is desired or when prolonged antibacterial activity is sought.
Robust Holographic Reconstruction by Deep Learning with One Frame
Authors: Xu Xianfeng , Luo Weilong , Wang Hao , Wang Xinwei
Published: October 2023

A robust method is proposed to reconstruct images with only one hologram in digital holography by introducing a deep learning (DL) network. The U-net neural network is designed according to DL principles and trained by the image data set collected using phase-shifting digital holography (PSDH). The training data set was established by collecting thousands of reconstructed images using PSDH. The proposed method can complete the holography reconstruction with only a single hologram and then benefits the space bandwidth product and relaxes the storage loads of PSDH. Compared with the results of PSDH, the results of deep learning are immune to most disturbances, including reference tilt, phase-shift errors, and speckle noise. Assisted by a GPU processor, the proposed reconstruction method can reduce the consumption time to almost one percent of the time needed by two-step PSDH. This method is expected to be capable of holography imaging with a single hologram, with high capacity, efficiently in the digital holography applications.
The Effect of Topophysis on the In Vitro Development of Handroanthus guayacan and on Its Metabolism of Meta-Topolin Riboside
Authors: Grira Maroua , Prinsen Els , Werbrouck Stefaan P. O.
Published: October 2023

An important factor affecting the uniformity of in vitro cultures is the topophysical position of the original explant. We investigated this phenomenon in Handroanthus guayacan, a tropical woody tree species. Shoots from a stock culture were separated into upper, middle and basal sections and transferred to a modified MS medium containing meta-topolin-riboside and indole-butyric acid. After 8 weeks, the middle section produced the most shoots, the longest shoots and the highest number of nodes per plant. Shoots derived from the upper section were elongated, but had the shortest internodes, while those from the basal section formed the largest callus. None of the three types of explants rooted during the proliferation phase. The topophysically dependent spatial distribution of endogenous cytokinins and auxins was determined. The topophysical effect observed could not be explained solely by analyzing the endogenous isoprenoid and auxin. However, the metabolism and distribution of the aromatic cytokinin could provide an explanation. The concentration of the meta hydroxy-substituted topolins was highest in shoots derived from the middle section. Aromatic N- and O-glucosides were much more concentrated in the leaves than in the stems. In conclusion, it is recommended to consider the explant’s topophysis when developing a multiplication protocol to avoid heterogeneity in an in vitro culture.
The Effects of Rhizophagus irregularis Inoculation on Transcriptome of Medicago lupulina Leaves at Early Vegetative and Flowering Stages of Plant Development
Authors: Yurkov Andrey P. , Afonin Alexey M. , Kryukov Alexey A. , Gorbunova Anastasia O. , Kudryashova Tatyana R. , Kovalchuk Anastasia I. , Gorenkova Anastasia I. , Bogdanova Ekaterina M. , Kosulnikov Yuri V. , Laktionov Yuri V. , Kozhemyakov Andrey P. , Romanyuk Daria A. , Zhukov Vladimir A. , Puzanskiy Roman K. , Mikhailova Yulia V. , Yemelyanov Vladislav V. , Shishova Maria F.
Published: October 2023

The study is aimed at revealing the effects of Rhizophagus irregularis inoculation on the transcriptome of Medicago lupulina leaves at the early (second leaf formation) and later (flowering) stages of plant development. A pot experiment was conducted under conditions of low phosphorus (P) level in the substrate. M. lupulina plants were characterized by high mycorrhizal growth response and mycorrhization parameters. Library sequencing was performed on the Illumina HiseqXTen platform. Significant changes in the expression of 4863 (padj < 0.01) genes from 34049 functionally annotated genes were shown by Massive Analysis of cDNA Ends (MACE-Seq). GO enrichment analysis using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was performed, and 244 functional GO groups were identified, including genes contributing to the development of effective AM symbiosis. The Mercator online tool was used to assign functional classes of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The early stage was characterized by the presence of six functional classes that included only upregulated GO groups, such as genes of carbohydrate metabolism, cellular respiration, nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, protein biosynthesis, and solute transport. At the later stage (flowering), the number of stimulated GO groups was reduced to photosynthesis and protein biosynthesis. All DEGs of the GO:0016036 group were downregulated because AM plants had higher resistance to phosphate starvation. For the first time, the upregulation of genes encoding thioredoxin in AM plant leaves was shown. It was supposed to reduce ROS level and thus, consequently, enhance the mechanisms of antioxidant protection in M. lupulina plants under conditions of low phosphorus level. Taken together, the obtained results indicate genes that are the most important for the effective symbiosis with M. lupulina and might be engaged in other plant species.
The Dynamics of Sugar Maize (Zea mays saccharata Sturt.) Infestation of Field Pansy (Viola arvensis)
Authors: Waligóra Hubert , Majchrzak Leszek , Zawieja Bogna , Idziak Robert , Szulc Piotr
Published: October 2023

Field pansy infestation can lead to a decrease in the species diversity of plant communities and to the disappearance of other species. Field pansy infestation is fairly common in many crops, including maize. Understanding the ecology and management strategies for field pansy in maize is essential for effective weed control. This research into sugar maize was conducted from 1992 to 2019 in the Research and Education Center Gorzyń, Złotniki branch, which belongs to the Poznań University of Life Sciences. The assessment of weed infestation was carried out in experiments that focused on chemical weed control in maize. The experiments were established as single-factor randomized block designs with four field replications. The aim of the study was to evaluate dynamic changes in the status and the degree of field pansy infestation in sugar maize that was cultivated after various other crops in the Wielkopolska region, with a focus on weather conditions. The results indicated that the probability of field pansy individuals occurring among the total number of weeds was highest when maize was cultivated after wheat, but the probability of such infestation did not significantly differ when maize was sown in a crop rotation after winter triticale.
Plants of the Rubiaceae Family with Effect on Metabolic Syndrome: Constituents, Pharmacology, and Molecular Targets
Authors: González-Castelazo Fabiola , Soria-Jasso Luis E. , Torre-Villalvazo Ivan , Cariño-Cortés Raquel , Muñoz-Pérez Víctor M. , Ortiz Mario I. , Fernández-Martínez Eduardo
Published: October 2023

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) predisposes individuals to chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like type 2 diabetes (T2D), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular disorders caused by systemic inflammation, intestinal dysbiosis, and diminished antioxidant ability, leading to oxidative stress and compromised insulin sensitivity across vital organs. NCDs present a global health challenge characterized by lengthy and costly pharmacological treatments. Complementary and alternative medicine using herbal therapies has gained popularity. Approximately 350,000 plant species are considered medicinal, with 80% of the world’s population opting for traditional remedies; however, only 21,000 plants are scientifically confirmed by the WHO. The Rubiaceae family is promissory for preventing and treating MetS and associated NCDs due to its rich content of metabolites renowned for their antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory properties. These compounds influence transcription factors and mitigate chronic low-grade inflammation, liver lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance, making them a cost-effective non-pharmacological approach for MetS prevention and treatment. This review aims to collect and update data that validate the traditional uses of the Rubiaceae family for treating MetS and associated NCDs from experimental models and human subjects, highlighting the mechanisms through which their extracts and metabolites modulate glucose and lipid metabolism at the molecular, biochemical, and physiological levels.
Tensile Properties of Four Types of ABS Lattice Structures—A Comparative Study
Authors: Monkova Katarina , Monka Peter Pavol , Hricová Romana , Hausnerova Berenika , Knapčíková Lucia
Published: October 2023

This article aims to compare the behaviour of four types of lattice structures named Cartesian, Rhomboid, Octagonal, and Starlit under tensile stress loading. The structures were made of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) material using the Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) technique with three different specific volumes (24, 42, and 60%). Five samples of each type were produced, and a total of 60 samples were tested. Experimental testing was performed according to EN ISO 527-1:2012 and EN ISO 527-2:2012. The obtained data were statistically processed, while no outliers were identified. The experimental results pointed out that the specimens’ topology, together with the specific volume, very significantly affected the resultant ABS properties of the tested samples made of the same material. The comparative study showed that in terms of ultimate strength, yield strength, and Young’s modulus, the Cartesian structure appeared to be the most suitable for tensile stress, and the least suitable structure was the Rhomboid structure. On the other hand, the Rhomboid-type of the structure showed not only the highest amount of absorbed energy but also the highest toughness among the investigated lattice structures, so in the near future, its behaviour under an impact test should be studied.
Tannic Acid-Induced Gelation of Aqueous Suspensions of Cellulose Nanocrystals
Authors: Lin Fengcai , Lin Wenyan , Chen Jingwen , Sun Chenyi , Zheng Xiaoxiao , Xu Yanlian , Lu Beili , Chen Jipeng , Huang Biao
Published: October 2023

Nanocellulose hydrogels are a crucial category of soft biomaterials with versatile applications in tissue engineering, artificial extracellular matrices, and drug-delivery systems. In the present work, a simple and novel method, involving the self-assembly of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) induced by tannic acid (TA), was developed to construct a stable hydrogel (SH-CNC/TA) with oriented porous network structures. The gelation process is driven by the H-bonding interaction between the hydroxyl groups of CNCs and the catechol groups of TA, as substantiated by the atoms in molecules topology analysis and FTIR spectra. Interestingly, the assembled hydrogels exhibited a tunable hierarchical porous structure and mechanical moduli by varying the mass ratio of CNCs to TA. Furthermore, these hydrogels also demonstrate rapid self-healing ability due to the dynamic nature of the H-bond. Additionally, the structural stability of the SH-CNC/TA hydrogel could be further enhanced and adjusted by introducing coordination bonding between metal cations and TA. This H-bonding driven self-assembly method may promote the development of smart cellulose hydrogels with unique microstructures and properties for biomedical and other applications.
Polymer-Embedding Germanium Nanostrip Waveguide of High Polarization Extinction
Authors: Liu Jinyuan , Zhang Ziyang
Published: October 2023

Germanium (Ge) nanostrip was embedded in a polymer and studied as a waveguide. The measurements reveal that this new type of semiconductor/polymer heterogeneous waveguide exhibits strong absorption for the TE mode from 1500 nm to 2004 nm, while the propagation loss for the TM mode declines from 20.56 dB/cm at 1500 nm to 4.89 dB/cm at 2004 nm. The transmission characteristics serve as an essential tool for verifying the optical parameters (n-κ, refractive index, and extinction coefficient) of the strip, addressing the ambiguity raised by spectroscopic ellipsometry regarding highly absorbing materials. Furthermore, the observed strong absorption for the TE mode at 2004 nm is well beyond the cut-off wavelength of the crystalline bulk Ge (~1850 nm at room temperature). This redshift is modeled to manifest the narrowing of the Tauc-fitted bandgap due to the grain order effect in the amorphous Ge layer. The accurate measurement of the nanometer-scale light-absorbing strips in a waveguide form is a crucial step toward the accurate design of integrated photonic devices that utilize such components.
Amino-Functionalized Silica@Resorcinol–Formaldehyde Nanocomposites for the Removal of Cr(VI) from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Li Nan , Lu Wenhui , Zhu Deyi
Published: October 2023

Amino-functionalized silica@resorcinol–formaldehyde nanocomposites (NH2-SiO2@RF) were synthesized for the removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solutions using the sol–gel technique with two simple preparation steps, including the one-pot synthesis of SiO2@RF using the Stöber method and (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) modification. The morphology, particle size, functional group, and thermal stability of the obtained nanocomposites were systematically characterized, with the results indicating a uniform sphericity with a particle size of 200 nm and high thermal stability. The adsorption results demonstrated that the preferred pH value was 2, and the data were well fitted with the Langmuir and Temkin isotherm models and quasi-second-order kinetic equation, indicating a high adsorption capacity. The maximum Cr(VI) adsorption capacity from the nonlinear form of the Langmuir model was 272.6 mg·g−1. The intra-particle diffusion model accurately described the adsorption of Cr(VI) onto NH2-SiO2@RF. The changes in Gibb’s free energy, enthalpy, and entropy revealed that Cr(VI) adsorption onto NH2-SiO2@RF was a spontaneous and endothermic process. Furthermore, high selectivity was demonstrated in the material for the removal of Cr(VI) from commonly coexisting ions. The obtained nanocomposites had good regeneration properties and maintained a removal rate above 85% in the fifth adsorption–desorption experiments. Moreover, under the optimized adsorption conditions, the obtained nanocomposites were preliminarily applied to tannery wastewater, demonstrating an excellent removal effect, which indicates their potential application value.
Solidification Treatment of Wastewater and Waste Soil Generated during Binhai Reclamation: A Study on Mechanical Properties and Resource Utilization
Authors: Yang Aiwu , Xu Jian , Xu Caili
Published: October 2023

Coastal reclamation projects generate an accumulation of wastewater and waste soil, resulting in highly saturated soft soil. Presently, there is a scarcity of research regarding the lightweight solidification and three-dimensional mechanical properties of these soils. Additionally, there is a dearth of specialized models for stabilizing soils containing wastewater using lightweight solidification technology, and pertinent engineering solutions are lacking. By introducing solidifying agents and foaming agents to treat wastewater in soft fill soil, a novel type of solidified lightweight material is produced, imparting strength. This study investigates its three-dimensional mechanical properties. During triaxial tests with equal stress (σ3) and equal b values, the softening of the curve noticeably diminished at b = 0.25. In the plane strain test, cohesion increased by 10.7% compared to the traditional triaxial tests, and the internal friction angle increased by 11%. Subsequently, a three-dimensional Cambridge model was established. At elevated confining pressures, the corrected curve closely approximated the test curve, demonstrating a minimum model accuracy of approximately 96% at a confining pressure of 20 KPa. These findings offer valuable numerical references and a theoretical foundation for the efficient utilization of wastewater and waste soil.