bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Polymeric Piezoelectric Tactile Sensor Fabricated by 3D Printing and Laser Micromachining for Hardness Differentiation during Palpation
Authors: Ge Chang , Cretu Edmond
Published: December 2022

Tactile sensors are important bionic microelectromechanical systems that are used to implement an artificial sense of touch for medical electronics. Compared with the natural sense of touch, this artificial sense of touch provides more quantitative information, augmenting the objective aspects of several medical operations, such as palpation-based diagnosis. Tactile sensors can be effectively used for hardness differentiation during the palpation process. Since palpation requires direct physical contact with patients, medical safety concerns are alleviated if the sensors used can be made disposable. In this respect, the low-cost, rapid fabrication of tactile sensors based on polymers is a possible alternative. The present work uses the 3D printing of elastic resins and the laser micromachining of piezoelectric polymeric films to make a low-cost tactile sensor for hardness differentiation through palpation. The fabricated tactile sensor has a sensitivity of 1.52 V/mm to mechanical deformation at the vertical direction, a sensitivity of 11.72 mV/HA in sensing material hardness with a pressing depth of 500 µm for palpation, and a validated capability to detect rigid objects buried in a soft tissue phantom. Its performance is comparable with existing piezoelectric tactile sensors for similar applications. In addition, the tactile sensor has the additional advantage of providing a simpler microfabrication process.
Multi-Ion-Based Modelling and Experimental Investigations on Consistent and High-Throughput Generation of a Micro Cavity Array by Mask Electrolyte Jet Machining
Authors: Wu Ming , Guo Zhongning , Qian Jun , Reynaerts Dominiek
Published: December 2022

The controllability and consistency in the fabrication of micro-textures on large-scale remains a challenge for existing production processes. Mask electrolyte jet machining (MEJM) is an alternative to Jet-ECM for controllable and high-throughput surface microfabrication with more consistency of dimensional tolerances. This hybrid configuration combines the high-throughput of masked-ECM and the adjustable flow-field of jet-ECM. In this work, a duckbill jet nozzle was introduced to make MEJM more capable of batch micro-structuring. A multiphysics model was built to simulate the distribution of electrochemical reaction ions, the current density distribution, and the evolution of the shape of the machined cavity. Experimental investigations are presented showing the influence of the machining voltage and nozzle moving speed on the micro cavity. Several 35×35 micro cavity arrays with a diameter of 11.73–24.92 μm and depth of 7.24–15.86 μm are generated on 304 stainless steel.
Thermal and Flow Analysis of Fully Developed Electroosmotic Flow in Parallel-Plate Micro- and Nanochannels with Surface Charge-Dependent Slip
Authors: Chang Long , Sun Yanjun , Buren Mandula , Jian Yongjun
Published: December 2022

This study analytically investigates the coupled effects of surface charge and boundary slip on the fully developed electroosmotic flow and thermal transfer in parallel plate micro and nanochannels under the high zeta potential. The electric potential, velocity, temperature, flow rate, and Nusselt number are obtained analytically. The main results are that the velocity of bulk flow is significantly reduced in the presence of the surface charge-dependent slip. Moreover, the maximum velocity at ζ = −125 mV is approximately twice as large as that at ζ = −25 mV. The velocity and dimensionless temperature increase as the zeta potential increases. The dimensionless temperature of the surface charge-dependent slip flow is larger than that of the surface charge-independent slip flow. For the surface charge-dependent slip flow, the maximum temperature at ζ = −125 mV is approximately four times larger than that at ζ = −25 mV. The Nusselt number decreases with Joule heating and increases with a positive heat transfer coefficient. The Nusselt number decreases as the electric field and the magnitude of the zeta potential increase. In the surface charge-dependent slip flows, the Nusselt number is smaller than that in the surface charge-independent slip flows.
Polishing Characteristics of Cemented Carbide Using Cubic Boron Nitride Magnetic Abrasive Powders
Authors: Chen Pengfei , Gao Yuewu , Zhao Yugang , Zhao Guoyong , Zhang Guixiang , Zhang Haiyun , Song Zhuang
Published: December 2022

This paper describes the application of bonded magnetic abrasive powders (MAPs) in the magnetic abrasive finishing (MAF) process. In order to improve the poor finishing performance and short service life of MAPs in polishing super-hard materials, a double-stage atomization technique was used to successfully manufacture MAPs with a CBN as an abrasive phase. The prepared results show that CBN abrasives with their original structure were deeply and densely embedded on the surface of spherical MAPs. Based on the MAF process, a five-level and four-factor central composite design experiment was carried out to verify the developed MAPs polishing performance on the finishing of cemented carbide parts (864 Hv). Working gap, rotational speed, feed rate of a workpiece, and mesh number of MAP were considered as influence factors. The analysis data was used to understand different interactions of significant parameters. A regression model for predicting the change of surface roughness was obtained, and the optimal parameter combination was figured out through a solution of a quadratic equation in Design-Expert software. According to MAF results, the strong cutting ability of atomized CBN MAPs improved the surface roughness of cemented carbide by over 80% at the optimum parameters. The strong cutting ability of atomized CBN MAPs can produce good surface quality on the hard materials. The findings of this research can promote a large-scale application of MAF technology in the surface polishing of hard materials.
Polysynthetic Twinning of Diopsides in the Niewang and Tatliksu Nephrite Deposits, Xinjiang, China
Authors: Liang Huan , Shi Guanghai , Yuan Ye , Cao Chuqi , Sun Xiang , Zhang Xiaohui
Published: December 2022

Diopside, an important component of the crustal and upper mantle, plays an important role in the formation of nephrite. Polysynthetic twinning in natural diopside, especially from skarns, has rarely been systematically researched. Here, the polysynthetic twinning of natural diopside was investigated in two skarn-type nephrite deposits (Niewang and Tatliksu) in Qiemo, Xinjiang, China. Petrographic observations revealed periodic alternations of dark–light lamellae under cross-polarized light and parallel striations under plane-polarized light, whereas backscattered electron images indicated high homogeneity, which suggested a type of mechanical polysynthetic twinning. According to the optical indicatrix, twins were predominantly oriented as a (100)[100] system. Raman spectra and chemical data show that pyroxenes in nephrite are close to the Di end-member with 0.90–1.04 a.p.f.u. Mg and 0.98–1.05 a.p.f.u. Ca. Both diopside and tremolite from Tatliksu contain slightly higher Fe than those from Niewang. Given the seismic origin of mechanical clinopyroxenes twins, twins of studied diopsides are likely to be attributed to Paleozoic-Mesozoic paleoearthquakes in the Altyn Mountain. A shear stress ≥ 140 MPa and a differential stress greater than 280 MPa are suggested as conditions linked to generation of the twinning of diopsides in the nephrite deposits. The replacement of diopside by tremolite along its twin planes highlights the potential gemological implications, as such replacement by tremolite probably facilitated the formation of dense, fine fibre textures in the nephrites.
Efficient Degradation of Tetracycline Antibiotics by Engineered Myoglobin with High Peroxidase Activity
Authors: Wu Guang-Rong , Sun Li-Juan , Xu Jia-Kun , Gao Shu-Qin , Tan Xiang-Shi , Lin Ying-Wu
Published: December 2022

Tetracyclines are one class of widely used antibiotics. Meanwhile, due to abuse and improper disposal, they are often detected in wastewater, which causes a series of environmental problems and poses a threat to human health and safety. As an efficient and environmentally friendly method, enzymatic catalysis has attracted much attention. In previous studies, we have designed an efficient peroxidase (F43Y/P88W/F138W Mb, termed YWW Mb) based on the protein scaffold of myoglobin (Mb), an O2 carrier, by modifying the heme active center and introducing two Trp residues. In this study, we further applied it to degrade the tetracycline antibiotics. Both UV-Vis and HPLC studies showed that the triple mutant YWW Mb was able to catalyze the degradation of tetracycline, oxytetracycline, doxycycline, and chlortetracycline effectively, with a degradation rate of ~100%, ~98%, ~94%, and ~90%, respectively, within 5 min by using H2O2 as an oxidant. These activities are much higher than those of wild-type Mb and other heme enzymes such as manganese peroxidase. As further analyzed by UPLC-ESI-MS, we identified multiple degradation products and thus proposed possible degradation mechanisms. In addition, the toxicity of the products was analyzed by using in vitro antibacterial experiments of E. coli. Therefore, this study indicates that the engineered heme enzyme has potential applications for environmental remediation by degradation of tetracycline antibiotics.
Investigation of the Effect of Substituents on Electronic and Charge Transport Properties of Benzothiazole Derivatives
Authors: Irfan Ahmad , Kalam Abul , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Dubey Mrigendra
Published: December 2022

A series of new benzothiazole-derived donor–acceptor-based compounds (Comp1–4) were synthesized and characterized with the objective of tuning their multifunctional properties, i.e., charge transport, electronic, and optical. All the proposed structural formulations (Comp1–4) were commensurate using FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, ESI-mass, UV–vis, and elemental analysis techniques. The effects of the electron-donating group (-CH3) and electron-withdrawing group (-NO2) on the optoelectronic and charge transfer properties were studied. The substituent effect on absorption was calculated at the TD-B3LYP/6-31+G** level in the gas and solvent phases. The effect of solvent polarity on the absorption spectra using various polar and nonpolar solvents, i.e., ethanol, acetone, DMF, and DMSO was investigated. Light was shed on the charge transport in benzothiazole compounds by calculating electron affinity, ionization potential, and reorganization energies. Furthermore, the synthesized compounds were used to prepare thin films on the FTO substrate to evaluate the charge carrier mobility and other related device parameters with the help of I-V characteristic measurements.
Establishment of an LC-MS/MS Method for the Determination of 45 Pesticide Residues in Fruits and Vegetables from Fujian, China
Authors: Zheng Kunming , Wu Xiaoping , Chen Jiannan , Chen Jinxing , Lian Wenhao , Su Jianfeng , Shi Lihong
Published: December 2022

Pesticide residues in food have become an important factor seriously threatening human health. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables commonly found in Fujian, China, with the aim of constructing a simple and rapid method for pesticide residue monitoring. We collected 5607 samples from local markets and analyzed them for the presence of 45 pesticide residues. A fast, easy, inexpensive, effective, robust, and safe (QuEChERS) multi-residue extraction method followed by liquid chromatography equipped with triple-quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was successfully established. This 12-min-long analytical method detects and quantifies pesticide residues with acceptable validation performance parameters in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, linearity, the limit of quantification, accuracy, and precision. The linear range of the calibration curves ranged from 5 to 200 mg/L, the limits of detection for all pesticides ranged from 0.02 to 1.90 μg/kg, and the limits of quantification for the pesticides were 10 μg/kg. The recovery rates for the three levels of fortification ranged from 72.0% to 118.0%, with precision values (expressed as RSD%) less than 20% for all of the investigated analytes. The results showed that 726 (12.95%) samples were contaminated with pesticide residues, 94 (1.68%) samples exceeded the maximum residue limit (MRL) of the national standard (GB 2763-2021, China), 632 (11.23%) samples were contaminated with residues below the MRL, and 4881 (87.05%) samples were pesticide residue-free. In addition, the highest number of multiple pesticide residues was observed in bananas and peppers, which were contaminated with acetamiprid, imidacloprid, pyraclostrobin, and thiacloprid.
Polylactide Nanoparticles as a Biodegradable Vaccine Adjuvant: A Study on Safety, Protective Immunity and Efficacy against Human Leishmaniasis Caused by Leishmania Major
Authors: Ayari-Riabi Sana , Ben khalaf Noureddine , Bouhaouala-Zahar Balkiss , Verrier Bernard , Trimaille Thomas , Benlasfar Zakaria , Chenik Mehdi , Elayeb Mohamed
Published: December 2022

Leishmaniasis is the 3rd most challenging vector-borne disease after malaria and lymphatic filariasis. Currently, no vaccine candidate is approved or marketed against leishmaniasis due to difficulties in eliciting broad immune responses when using sub-unit vaccines. The aim of this work was the design of a particulate sub-unit vaccine for vaccination against leishmaniasis. The poly (D,L-lactide) nanoparticles (PLA-NPs) were developed in order to efficiently adsorb a recombinant L. major histone H2B (L. major H2B) and to boost its immunogenicity. Firstly, a study was focused on the production of well-formed nanoparticles by the nanoprecipitation method without using a surfactant and on the antigen adsorption process under mild conditions. The set-up preparation method permitted to obtain H2B-adsorbed nanoparticles H2B/PLA (adsorption capacity of about 2.8% (w/w)) with a narrow size distribution (287 nm) and a positive zeta potential (30.9 mV). Secondly, an in vitro release assay performed at 37 °C, pH 7.4, showed a continuous release of the adsorbed H2B for almost 21 days (30%) from day 7. The immune response of H2B/PLA was investigated and compared to H2B + CpG7909 as a standard adjuvant. The humoral response intensity (IgG) was substantially similar between both formulations. Interestingly, when challenged with the standard parasite strain (GLC94) isolated from a human lesion of cutaneous leishmaniasis, mice showed a significant reduction in footpad swelling compared to unvaccinated ones, and no deaths occurred until week 17th. Taken together, these results demonstrate that PLA-NPs represent a stable, cost-effective delivery system adjuvant for use in vaccination against leishmaniasis.
Trophic Transfer of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes at the Base of the Food Chain and Toxicological Response
Authors: Al-Shaeri Majed , Paterson Lynn , Stobie Margret , Cyphus Paul , Hartl Mark G. J.
Published: December 2022

The potential for trophic transfer of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) was assessed using the green algae Tetraselmis suecica and the blue mussel Mytilus edulis in a series of laboratory experiments. Swanee River Natural Organic Matter (SRNOM)-dispersed SWCNTs were introduced into growing algal cultures. Light microscopical observations, confirmed by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy, showed that SWCNT agglomerates adhered to the external algal cell walls and transmission electronic microscopy (TEM) results suggested internalization. A direct effect of SWCNT exposure on the algae was a significant decrease in growth, expressed as chlorophyll a concentration and cell viability. Mussels, fed with algae in the presence of SWCNTs, led to significantly increased pseudofaeces production, indicating selective feeding. Nevertheless, histological sections of the mussel digestive gland following exposure showed evidence of SWCNT-containing algae. Furthermore, DNA damage and oxidative stress biomarker responses in the mussel haemocytes and gill tissue were significantly altered from baseline values and were consistent with previously observed responses to SWCNT exposure. In conclusion, the observed SWCNT-algal interaction demonstrated the potential for SWCNT entrance at the base of the food chain, which may facilitate their trophic transfer with potential consequences for human exposure and health.
Synthesis of Co-Ni Alloy Particles with the Structure of a Solid Substitution Solution by Precipitation in a Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Nesterov Nikolay , Pakharukova Vera , Cherepanova Svetlana , Yakushkin Stanislav , Gerasimov Evgeniy , Balaev Dmitry , Semenov Sergei , Dubrovskii Andrey , Martyanov Oleg
Published: December 2022

Mixed Co-Ni bimetallic systems with the structure of a solid substitution solution have been synthesized using the supercritical antisolvent precipitation (SAS) method, which uses supercritical CO2 as an antisolvent. The systems obtained have been characterized in detail using X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and magnetostatic measurements. It has been found that Co-enriched systems have a defective hexagonal close-packed (hcp) structure, which was described by a model which embedded cubic fragments of packaging into a hexagonal close-packed (hcp) structure. It has been shown that an increase in water content at the precipitation stage leads to a decrease in the size of cubic fragments and a more uniform distribution of them in Co-enriched systems. It has also been shown that mixed systems have the greatest coercivity in the line of samples. Ni-enriched bimetallic systems have a cubic close-packed (ccp) structure with modified crystal lattice parameters.
Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults with Borderline Intellectual Functioning: Etiological, Neurophysiological, and Mri Findings in a Cohort of 651 Patients
Authors: Sätilä Heli , Jolma Laura Mirjami , Koivu-Jolma Mikko
Published: December 2022

This retrospective chart review study explored the etiology, use, and yield of the etiological investigations of 651 children and adolescents diagnosed with borderline intellectual functioning (BIF). Neurological, neurodevelopmental, or neuropsychiatric comorbidities were frequent, and in 23%, the BIF diagnosis evolved into an intellectual disability (ID) by the time of discharge. A primary etiological cause was found in 37.6%, the most prevalent causes being pre- or perinatal conditions, genetic syndromes/chromosomal abnormalities, fetal exposure to maternal substance use, cerebral dysgenesis, and neurological diseases. In total, 79.1% of patients went through one or more investigations during their follow-up. The best etiologic yield leading to a diagnosis in this study population was with exome sequencing, a specific gene panel, microarrays, electroneuromyography, and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Etiological investigations were performed more frequently among those children receiving an ID diagnosis. Yet, there was no statistically significant difference in the proportion of abnormal findings between the BIF and ID groups. This may mean that the current strategy for determining the need for etiological investigations or current means to gain an etiology is still indecisive. Considering that BIF is defined to include individuals performing between normal cognitive functioning and mild ID, this implies that the prevalence would be anywhere between 7 and 14%. Thus, it could be argued whether in-depth etiological investigations may be justified in cases other than ID in this age group of children over five. With these children and adolescents, the clinicians have to discern between those with a normal variation and those having major difficulties in adaptive behavior affecting everyday life in order to specify and prescribe the rehabilitation or other measures needed. We advocate for a targeted etiological search after careful history-taking and neurological examination. National guidelines that take into account the severity of developmental delay are warranted.
Hemispheric Asymmetry on the Electroencephalogram during General Anesthesia Responsive to Blood Pressure Manipulations
Authors: Nycz Bryan T. , Chalhoub Andrew , Patel Gaurav P. , Dean Cassandra E. , Papangelou Alexander
Published: December 2022

The electroencephalogram (EEG) has been extensively used to detect ischemia and the need for shunting during carotid endarterectomy. Limited literature exists using EEG data to detect ischemia in other surgeries. This case report depicts a 65-year-old man, with extensive vascular history including complete left carotid occlusion and severe right carotid stenosis, who presented for left first rib resection and left subclavian vein balloon angioplasty. Following induction of general anesthesia, frontal EEG (SedLine; Masimo Corporation, Irvine, CA, USA) demonstrated hemispheric asymmetry, which nearly resolved with vasoactive support. At three distinct periods, discordance reoccurred necessitating a higher mean arterial pressure threshold. This case demonstrates EEG patterns concerning for focal spectrographic ischemia and highlights the potential use of EEG signals to capture hypoperfusion and direct vasoactive therapy.
How Can We Support Healthy Eating in Young Adults with Low Diet Quality? A Survey of Users of the ‘No Money No Time’ Healthy Eating Website
Authors: Whatnall Megan , Ashton Lee M. , Adam Marc T. P. , McCormick Hannah , Clarke Erin D. , Lavelle Fiona , Burrows Tracy , Hutchesson Melinda , Collins Clare E.
Published: December 2022

Nutrition interventions to support young adults are needed due to low diet quality. The aims were to explore the (1) circumstances and (2) barriers regarding dietary habits of the young adult users of the No Money No Time (NMNT) healthy eating website with the lowest diet quality scores. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted from August–September 2022 with a sample of NMNT users aged 18–35 years with low diet quality (defined as Healthy Eating Quiz score 0–38/73). The survey included demographics (e.g., gender), circumstances (6-item US Food Security Survey, Cooking and Food Skills Confidence Measures), and challenges and resources used in relation to healthy eating (open-responses). Theoretical thematic analysis was used to analyse open-response questions and derive main themes. The study sample (n = 108; 71.3% female, median age 28; 28.7% food insecure) had a mean (standard deviation) Cooking Skills score 70.2 (17.5)/98, and median (interquartile range) Food Skills score 96.0 (83.5–107.5)/133. The main challenges regarding healthy eating were (1) time and (2) cost, and the main resources to support healthy eating were (1) online resources (e.g., websites, Google) and (2) recipes. Findings identify possible targets for future interventions to support healthy eating in this vulnerable group (e.g., supporting cooking and food skills).
Probiotics’ Efficacy in Preventing Asthmatic Allergic Reaction Induced by Air Particles: An Animal Study
Authors: Yang Chi-Yu , Zhang Fang-Yu , Wang I-Jen
Published: December 2022

Global air pollution and diesel exhaust particles (DEPs) generated by intratracheal instillation aggravate asthma. In this study, we evaluated the effect of probiotics via tracheal- or oral-route administration on allergies or asthma. We continuously perfused rats daily, using the oral and tracheal routes, with approximately 106–108 CFU probiotics, for 4 weeks. During this period, we used OVA-sensitized rats to build the asthma models. We orally or intratracheally administered Lactobacillus paracasei 33 (LP33) to the rats, which reduced the number of total inflammatory cells, lymphocytes, and eosinophils in the bronchoalveolar-lavage fluid, the IgE concentration, and the cytokine levels of TH2 cells, but we found no significant difference in the cytokine levels of TH1 cells. LP33 can be used to prevent asthmatic allergic reactions induced by aerosol particles. Nevertheless, the dosage form or use of LP33 needs to be adjusted to reduce the irritation of lung tissues, which may produce lesions of the trachea. We observed that DEP dosage can alleviate emphysema, and that LP33 has a substantial effect on improving or slowing allergic asthma.
Risk of Heart Failure between Different Metabolic States of Health and Weight: A Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Wang Xiaowen , Dong Jiayi , Du Zhicheng , Jiang Jie , Hu Yonghua , Qin Liqiang , Hao Yuantao
Published: December 2022

We conducted a systematic review of cohort studies comparing the risk of heart failure in people with differing metabolic health and obesity statuses. We searched three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus), where the studies of the relationships of metabolic health and obesity statuses with heart failure were included. Fixed-effects or random-effects models were used to estimate the summary relative risks [RRs]. Ten cohort studies were selected. Compared with individuals with normal metabolic health and body mass, the pooled RRs (95% confidence intervals) for heart failure were 1.23 (1.17, 1.29) for metabolic healthy overweight individuals, 1.52 (1.40, 1.64) for metabolic healthy individuals with obesity, 1.56 (1.30, 1.87) for metabolically unhealthy normal-weight individuals, 1.75 (1.55, 1.98) for metabolically unhealthy overweight individuals, and 2.28 (1.96, 2.66) for metabolic unhealthy individuals with obesity. A sensitivity analysis suggested that no single study had a substantial effect on the results. The Egger’s and Begg’s tests showed no evidence of publication bias. People with overweight or obesity were at a higher risk of heart failure, even if metabolically healthy. In addition, compared with metabolically healthy normal-weight individuals; metabolically unhealthy normal-weight individuals, and those with overweight or and obesity, were at higher risk of heart failure.
Bone Strength of the Calcaneus Is Associated with Dietary Calcium Intake in Older Japanese Men, but Not Women
Authors: Suzuki Keita , Tsujiguchi Hiromasa , Hara Akinori , Miyagi Sakae , Nguyen Thao Thi Thu , Kambayashi Yasuhiro , Shimizu Yukari , Suzuki Fumihiko , Takazawa Chie , Nakamura Masaharu , Tsuboi Hirohito , Kannon Takayuki , Tajima Atsushi , Nakamura Hiroyuki
Published: December 2022

The relationship between calcium intake and bone strength in older Asian individuals, including Japanese, is controversial; therefore, we herein investigated this relationship in older Japanese populations. We performed a cross-sectional analysis of 314 participants older than 65 years who voluntarily participated in a medical examination and responded to questionnaires. The osteo-sono assessment index (OSI) measured at the right calcaneus using a quantitative ultrasonic device was used as an indicator of bone strength. The daily dietary intake of calcium was assessed using a brief-type self-administered diet history questionnaire. A two-way analysis of covariance revealed a significant interaction between sex and calcium intake on the OSI (p < 0.01). A multiple regression analysis showed a positive correlation between calcium intake and the OSI in males (p < 0.01), but not females (p = 0.27). In females, grip strength divided by body weight positively correlated with the OSI (p = 0.04). The present results suggest that a higher calcium intake contributes to bone strength in older Japanese males. Although a higher grip strength may contribute to bone strength in females, the potential of estrogen as a confounding factor needs to be considered.
Association between Dietary Patterns and Depression in Chinese Older Adults: A Longitudinal Study Based on CLHLS
Authors: Pei Zhongfei , Zhang Jiajun , Qin Wenzhe , Hu Fangfang , Zhao Yan , Zhang Xiaohong , Cong Xinxia , Liu Chuanli , Xu Lingzhong
Published: December 2022

(1) Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary patterns and depression in Chinese older adults. (2) Method: A cohort study was conducted on the relationship between dietary patterns and the risk of depression in older adults based on the China Health and Longevity Longitudinal Survey (CLHLS) from 2011 to 2014. Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify dietary patterns. The relationship between dietary patterns and the risk of depression after four years was examined using logistic regression, and subgroup analysis was carried out to determine whether the association differed by gender. (3) Results: A total of 2873 older adults were included in our cohort study. Three dietary patterns were identified: vegetable–egg–bean–milk pattern, meat–fish pattern, and salt-preserved vegetable–garlic pattern. The vegetable–egg–beans–milk pattern was negatively correlated with the risk of geriatric depression development (adjusted OR = 0.65 (95%CI: 0.49–0.87)), and the salt-preserved vegetable–garlic pattern was positively associated with aged depression risk (adjusted OR = 1.33 (95CI: 1.00–1.77)). The meat–fish pattern was not associated with the risk of depression in older adults. These associations were consistent in both men and women. (4) Conclusions: In this cohort study, the vegetable–egg–beans–milk dietary pattern was associated with lower risk of depression, while the salt-preserved vegetable–garlic dietary pattern was associated with higher risk of depression, and there were no gender differences in these associations.
A High-Fiber Diet or Dietary Supplementation of Acetate Attenuate Hyperoxia-Induced Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Chu Shi-Jye , Tang Shih-En , Pao Hsin-Ping , Wu Shu-Yu , Liao Wen-I
Published: December 2022

A high fiber diet (HFD) and dietary supplementation with acetate have been reported to have beneficial effects in a variety of diseases. We investigated the effects of a HFD and acetate supplementation on the gut microbiota and hyperoxia-induced acute lung injury (HALI) in mice. Mice were fed a control diet, HFD, or acetate supplementation for three weeks, and their gut microbiome composition, lung tissues, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were examined after exposure to ambient air or hyperoxia. Both the HFD and acetate supplementation modified the gut microbiota community and increased the proportion of acetate-producing bacteria in mice exposed to hyperoxia. The HFD and acetate supplementation also increased the abundance of Bacteroides acidifaciens and reduced gut dysbiosis according to the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. Compared with hyperoxia-exposed mice fed a control diet, both the HFD and acetate supplementation significantly increased the survival time while reducing the severity of pulmonary edema and the concentrations of protein and inflammatory mediators in BALF. Moreover, the HFD and acetate supplementation reduced the production of free radicals, attenuated NF-κB signaling activation, and decreased apoptosis in the lung tissues. Overall, this study indicates that a HFD or acetate supplementation reduces the severity of HALI through alterations in the gut microbiota to exert anti-inflammatory effects.
Is Plant Microbiota a Driver of Resistance to the Vector-Borne Pathogen Xylella fastidiosa?
Authors: Cabezas-Cruz Alejandro , Maitre Apolline
Published: December 2022

Xylella fastidiosa is a vector-borne plant vascular bacterial pathogen that causes several economically important diseases, including Pierce’s disease (PD) in grapevine and olive quick decline syndrome (OQDS) in olive trees, among others [...]
Integrated Mechanisms of Polarity–Based Extracts of Cucumis melo L. Seed Kernels for Airway Smooth Muscle Relaxation via Key Signaling Pathways Based on WGCNA, In Vivo, and In Vitro Analyses
Authors: Wahid Muqeet , Saqib Fatima , Ali Anam , Alshammari Abdulrahman , Alharbi Metab , Rauf Abdur , Mubarak Mohammad S.
Published: December 2022

The present study aimed to determine the mechanisms responsible for calcium–mediated smooth muscle contractions in C. melo seeds. The phytochemicals of C. melo were identified and quantified with the aid of Liquid Chromatography Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometric (LC/ESI–MS/MS) and high–performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and then tested in–vitro and in vivo to confirm involvement in smooth muscle relaxation. Allergic asthma gene datasets were acquired from the NCBI gene expression omnibus (GEO) and differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis, weighted gene co–expression network analysis (WGCNA), and functional enrichment analysis were conducted. Additionally, molecular docking of key genes was carried out. Kaempferol, rutin, and quercetin are identified as phytochemical constituents of C. melo seeds. Results indicated that C. melo seeds exhibit a dose–dependent relaxant effect for potassium chloride (80 mM)– induced spastic contraction and calcium antagonistic response in calcium dose–response curves. The functional enrichment of WGCNA and DEG asthma–associated pathogenic genes showed cytokine–mediated pathways and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, CACNA1A, IL2RB, and NOS2 were identified as key genes with greater binding affinity with rutin, quercitrin, and kaempferol in molecular docking. These results show that the bronchodilator and antidiarrheal effects of C. melo were produced by altering the regulatory genes of calcium–mediated smooth muscle contraction.
Drugs for the Quorum Sensing Inhibition of Oral Biofilm: New Frontiers and Insights in the Treatment of Periodontitis
Authors: Polizzi Alessandro , Donzella Martina , Nicolosi Giada , Santonocito Simona , Pesce Paolo , Isola Gaetano
Published: December 2022

Chemical molecules are used by microorganisms to communicate with each other. Quorum sensing is the mechanism through which microorganisms regulate their population density and activity with chemical signaling. The inhibition of quorum sensing, called quorum quenching, may disrupt oral biofilm formation, which is the main etiological factor of oral diseases, including periodontitis. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of infectious etiology involving the hard and soft periodontal tissues and which is related to various systemic disorders, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity. The employment of adjuvant therapies to traditional scaling and root planing is currently being studied to further reduce the impact of periodontitis. In this sense, using antibiotics and antiseptics involves non-negligible risks, such as antibiotic resistance phenomena and hinders the re-establishment of eubiosis. Different quorum sensing signal molecules have been identified in periodontal pathogenic oral bacteria. In this regard, quorum sensing inhibitors are emerging as some interesting solutions for the management of periodontitis. Therefore, the aim of this review is to summarize the current state of knowledge on the mechanisms of quorum sensing signal molecules produced by oral biofilm and to analyze the potential of quorum sensing inhibitors for the management of periodontitis.
How Charge, Size and Protein Corona Modulate the Specific Activity of Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLC) against Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Chitas Rute , Nunes Cláudia , Reis Salette , Parreira Paula , Martins Maria Cristina L.
Published: December 2022

The major risk factor associated with the development of gastric cancer is chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori. The available treatments, based on a cocktail of antibiotics, fail in up to 40% of patients and disrupt their gut microbiota. The potential of blank nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) for H. pylori eradication was previously demonstrated by us. However, the effect of NLC charge, size and protein corona on H. pylori-specific bactericidal activity herein studied was unknown at that time. All developed NLC formulations proved bactericidal against H. pylori. Although cationic NLC had 10-fold higher bactericidal activity than anionic NLC, they lacked specificity, since Lactobacillus acidophilus was also affected. Anionic NLC achieved complete clearance in both H. pylori morphologies (rod- and coccoid-shape) by inducing alterations in bacteria membranes and the cytoplasm, as visualized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The presence of an NLC protein corona, composed of 93% albumin, was confirmed by mass spectrometry. This protein corona delayed the bactericidal activity of anionic NLC against H. pylori and hindered NLC activity against Escherichia coli. Overall, these results sustain the use of NLC as a promising antibiotic-free strategy targeting H. pylori.
Complexation of a Polypeptide-Polyelectrolytes Bioparticle as a Biomaterial of Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Ramirez Carlos A. B. , Carriero Mateus M. , Leomil Fernanda S. C. , Moro de Sousa Ricardo L. , de Miranda Antonio , Mertins Omar , Mathews Patrick D.
Published: December 2022

The development of biomaterials to enable application of antimicrobial peptides represents a strategy of high and current interest. In this study, a bioparticle was produced by the complexation between an antimicrobial polypeptide and the biocompatible and biodegradable polysaccharides chitosan-N-arginine and alginate, giving rise to a colloidal polyelectrolytic complex of pH-responsive properties. The inclusion of the polypeptide in the bioparticle structure largely increases the binding sites of complexation during the bioparticles production, leading to its effective incorporation. After lyophilization, detailed evaluation of colloidal structure of redispersed bioparticles evidenced nano or microparticles with size, polydispersity and zeta potential dependent on pH and ionic strength, and the dependence was not withdrawn with the polypeptide inclusion. Significant increase of pore edge tension in giant vesicles evidenced effective interaction of the polypeptide-bioparticle with lipid model membrane. Antibacterial activity against Aeromonas dhakensis was effective at 0.1% and equal for the isolated polypeptide and the same complexed in bioparticle, which opens perspectives to the composite material as an applicable antibacterial system.
Serendipita indica—A Review from Agricultural Point of View
Authors: Saleem Sana , Sekara Agnieszka , Pokluda Robert
Published: December 2022

Fulfilling the food demand of a fast-growing population is a global concern, resulting in increased dependence of the agricultural sector on various chemical formulations for enhancing crop production. This leads to an overuse of chemicals, which is not only harmful to human and animal health, but also to the environment and the global economy. Environmental safety and sustainable production are major responsibilities of the agricultural sector, which is inherently linked to the conservation of the biodiversity, the economy, and human and animal health. Scientists, therefore, across the globe are seeking to develop eco-friendly and cost-effective strategies to mitigate these issues by putting more emphasis on the use of beneficial microorganisms. Here, we review the literature on Serendipita indica, a beneficial endophytic fungus, to bring to the fore its properties of cultivation, the ability to enhance plant growth, improve the quality of produced crops, mitigate various plant stresses, as well as protect the environment. The major points in this review are as follows: (1) Although various plant growth promoting microorganisms are available, the distinguishing character of S. indica being axenically cultivable with a wide range of hosts makes it more interesting for research. (2) S. indica has numerous functions, ranging from promoting plant growth and quality to alleviating abiotic and biotic stresses, suggesting the use of this fungus as a biofertiliser. It also improves the soil quality by limiting the movement of heavy metals in the soil, thus, protecting the environment. (3) S. indica’s modes of action are due to interactions with phytohormones, metabolites, photosynthates, and gene regulation, in addition to enhancing nutrient and water absorption. (4) Combined application of S. indica and nanoparticles showed synergistic promotion in crop growth, but the beneficial effects of these interactions require further investigation. This review concluded that S. indica has a great potential to be used as a plant growth promoter or biofertiliser, ensuring sustainable crop production and a healthy environment.
Retention of Mutations in Colchicine-Induced Ornamental Succulent Echeveria ‘Peerless’
Authors: Cabahug Raisa Aone M. , Tran My Khanh Thi Ha , Ahn Yun-Jae , Hwang Yoon-Jung
Published: December 2022

Mutation breeding has produced promising results, with exceptional attributes including pest/disease and environmental tolerance and desirable ornamental traits. Among the tools used in mutation breeding, chemical mutation is the most inexpensive way to develop novel plants. Succulents have gained popularity with high market demand because they require minimal watering and have plastic-like visuals. Ornamental succulents with rare leaf morphologies are costly. An LD50 study was conducted beforehand to determine the survival rates of colchicine-treated Echeveria ‘Peerless’. Mutants in the first generation (MV1) were identified and analyzed. Determining whether mutagenic characteristics are carried to the subsequent generation (MV2) is a key component in breeding programs. Additional investigation was performed by producing MV2 plants through vegetative propagation to determine mutagenic retention. For MV2, mutants exhibited shortened leaves, increased leaf width and thickness, and fewer leaves, which significantly differed from the control, indicating compactness, wider leaf apex, and varying leaf color. To confirm the mutations, stomatal analysis was conducted, wherein there was a decrease in density and an increase in stomatal size. Likewise, chromosome counting and flow cytometry analysis confirmed the induction of polyploidization. Colchicine induction to develop new cultivars with novel phenotypic and cytogenetic characters is suitable for ornamental succulents.
Investigation and Characterization of Factors Affecting Rheological Properties of Poloxamer-Based Thermo-Sensitive Hydrogel
Authors: Chen I-Cheng , Su Chen-Ying , Chen Pei-Yu , Hoang The Chien , Tsou Yi-Syue , Fang Hsu-Wei
Published: December 2022

Poloxamers are negatively temperature-sensitive hydrogels and their hydrophilic groups interact with water molecules at lower temperatures (liquid phase) while their hydrophobic groups interact more strongly with increases in temperature causing gelation. To investigate the factors affecting the rheological properties of poloxamers, various parameters including different poloxamer P407 concentrations, poloxamers P407/P188 blending ratios and additives were examined. The results presented a clear trend of decreasing gelling temperature/time when P407 was at higher concentrations. Moreover, the addition of P188 enhanced the gelling temperature regardless of poloxamer concentration. Polysaccharides and their derivatives have been widely used as components of hydrogel and we found that alginic acid (AA) or carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) reduced the gelling temperature of poloxamers. In addition, AA-containing poloxamer promoted cell proliferation and both AA -and CMC-containing poloxamer hydrogels reduced cell migration. This study investigated the intriguing characteristics of poloxamer-based hydrogel, providing useful information to compounding an ideal and desired thermo-sensitive hydrogel for further potential clinical applications such as development of sprayable anti-adhesive barrier, wound-healing dressings or injectable drug-delivery system for cartilage repair.
Removal of Heavy Metals from Acid Mine Drainage by Red Mud–Based Geopolymer Pervious Concrete: Batch and Long–Term Column Studies
Authors: Xu Wenbin , Yang Hailang , Mao Qiming , Luo Lin , Deng Ying
Published: December 2022

Various metal ions in acid mine drainage (AMD) cause environmental pollution. Due to the unique advantages of heavy metal treatment and gelling properties, previous concretes incorporating red mud have attracted extensive attention in AMD passive treatment, which utilises naturally occurring chemicals to cleanse contaminated mine waters with low operating costs. This study aims to develop red mud–based geopolymer pervious concrete as an eco–friendly method to remove heavy metals in AMD. Compared with raw pervious concrete, red mud–based geopolymer pervious concrete improves the purification efficiency of heavy metals. The high rate of acid reduction and metal removal by the geopolymer is attributed to the dissolution of portlandite in red mud. Precipitation of metal hydroxides seems to be the dominant metal removal mechanism. Under optimal conditions (influent pH = 4.0 and the hydraulic retention time = 24 h), red mud–based geopolymer pervious concrete could completely remove Cu(II), Mn(II), Cd(II) and Zn(II) by up to 10 mg/L, 10 mg/L, 1.6 mg/L and 16 mg/L, respectively. When the influent pH is 2.5, the hydrolysis of Fe(III) released from red mud increases the consumption of OH−. Moreover, when the influent pH is 4.0, the precipitation of CaSO4 promotes the dissolution of portlandite and metal removal. Therefore, red mud has demonstrated feasibility in the manufacturing of geopolymer–based pervious concrete for purification AMD.
Calcium-Lignosulfonate-Filled Rubber Compounds Based on NBR with Enhanced Physical–Mechanical Characteristics
Authors: Kruželák Ján , Hložeková Klaudia , Kvasničáková Andrea , Džuganová Michaela , Hronkovič Ján , Preťo Jozef , Hudec Ivan
Published: December 2022

Calcium lignosulfonate in the amount 30 phr was incorporated into rubber compounds based on pure NBR and an NBR carbon black batch, in which the content of carbon black was 25 phr. Glycerine, as a cheap and environmentally friendly plasticizer, was applied into both types of rubber formulations in a concentration scale ranging from 5 to 20 phr. For the cross-linking of rubber compounds, a sulfur-based curing system was used. The work was aimed at the investigation of glycerine content on the curing process and rheological properties of rubber compounds, cross-link density, morphology and physical–mechanical properties of vulcanizates. The results show that glycerine influences the shapes of curing isotherms and results in a significant decrease between the maximum and minimum torque. This points to the strong plasticizing effect of glycerine on rubber compounds, which was also confirmed from rheological measurements. The application of glycerine resulted in better homogeneity of the rubber compounds and in the better dispersion and distribution of lignosulfonate within the rubber matrix, which was subsequently reflected in the significant improvement of tensile characteristics of vulcanizates. A higher cross-link density as well as better physical–mechanical properties were exhibited by the vulcanizates based on the carbon black batch due to the presence of a reinforcing filler.