bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution and Oxidation Rates of Ammonia-Oxidizing Archaea Influenced by the Coastal Upwelling off Eastern Hainan Island
Authors: Liu Hao , Zhou Peng , Cheung Shunyan , Lu Yanhong , Liu Hongbin , Jing Hongmei
Published: May 2022

Coastal upwelling causes variations in temperature, salinity and inorganic nutrients in the water column, consequently leading to the shift of microbial populations and their metabolic activities. Impacts of the eastern Hainan upwelling (EHU) on the ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) were investigated based on the amoA gene using pyrosequencing and quantitative PCR at both DNA and cDNA levels, together with the determination of the ammonia oxidation (AO) rate measured with 15N-labelled ammonium. By comparing stations with and without upwelling influence, we found that coastal upwelling correlated with an increase in amoA gene abundance, the dominance of distinct clades for AOA communities at the respective gene and transcript levels, and a large increase in the proportion of the SCM1-like (Nitrosopumilus maritimus-like) cluster as well. The AO rates were generally higher in the deeper water (~25 m), which was in significant positive correlation with the proportion of cluster Water Column A (WCA) at the transcript level, indicating the potential contribution of this cluster to in situ ammonia oxidization. Our study demonstrated that coastal upwelling had a significant impact on the AOA community and ammonia oxidization rate; therefore, this physical forcing should be considered in the future assessment of the global nitrogen budgets and biogeochemical nitrogen cycles.
Influence of the Phagemid PfNC7401 on Cereulide-Producing Bacillus cereus NC7401
Authors: Geng Peiling , Gong Yunfei , Wan Xiaofu , Hu Xiaomin
Published: May 2022

A phagemid-cured strain, NC7401-∆Pf, was constructed to survey the biological function of the plasmidal prophage PfNC7401 in cereulide-producing Bacillus cereus NC7401. The transcriptome analysis between the mutant and the wild strains revealed a series of differentially expressed genes mainly involved in different function classifications, including the two-component signal transduction system, bacterial structure, transporters, related antibiotic response, purine biosynthesis, non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPS) and related secondary metabolites, and aromatic or other amino acid synthesis. BIOLOG and phenotypic experiment analyses confirmed that PfNC7401 may affect phage immunity and the metabolism of several amino acids, including L-Alanine, which was suggested to be related to one precursor (D-Alanine) of cereulide synthesis. However, neither the transcription levels of the cereulide production-related genes (e.g., ilvB, cesA, cesB, and cesH) nor the cereulide production nor cell cytotoxicity were affected by the presence or absence of PfNC7401, corresponding with the transcriptome data, in which only four genes unrelated to cereulide synthesis on the plasmid-carrying ces gene cluster were affected by the curing of PfNC7401.
Phylogeny and Metabolic Potential of the Methanotrophic Lineage MO3 in Beijerinckiaceae from the Paddy Soil through Metagenome-Assembled Genome Reconstruction
Authors: Cai Yuanfeng , Yun Juanli , Jia Zhongjun
Published: May 2022

Although the study of aerobic methane-oxidizing bacteria (MOB, methanotrophs) has been carried out for more than a hundred years, there are many uncultivated methanotrophic lineages whose metabolism is largely unknown. Here, we reconstructed a nearly complete genome of a Beijerinckiaceae methanotroph from the enrichment of paddy soil by using nitrogen-free M2 medium. The methanotroph labeled as MO3_YZ.1 had a size of 3.83 Mb, GC content of 65.6%, and 3442 gene-coding regions. Based on phylogeny of pmoA gene and genome and the genomic average nucleotide identity, we confirmed its affiliation to the MO3 lineage and a close relationship to Methylocapsa. MO3_YZ.1 contained mxaF- and xoxF-type methanol dehydrogenase. MO3_YZ.1 used the serine cycle to assimilate carbon and regenerated glyoxylate through the glyoxylate shunt as it contained isocitrate lyase and complete tricarboxylic acid cycle-coding genes. The ethylmalonyl-CoA pathway and Calvin–Benson–Bassham cycle were incomplete in MO3_YZ.1. Three acetate utilization enzyme-coding genes were identified, suggesting its potential ability to utilize acetate. The presence of genes for N2 fixation, sulfur transformation, and poly-β-hydroxybutyrate synthesis enable its survival in heterogeneous habitats with fluctuating supplies of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur.
In Situ Study on Dehydration and Phase Transformation of Antigorite
Authors: Liang Shuang , Liu Yuegao , Mei Shenghua
Published: May 2022

Antigorite is the main carrier of water in Earth’s subduction zones. The dehydration processes of antigorite were investigated by carrying out in situ phase transition experiments using a dynamic diamond anvil cell, with a time-resolved Raman scattering system, at 0.3–10 GPa and 396–1100 K. Three typical phase transformation reactions occurred within the P–T range of this study, corresponding to three reaction products. At low pressures (<0.7 GPa), antigorite transfers to talc and forsterite; as the temperature increases, the talc disappears and a combination of forsterite and clinoenstatite occurs. At moderate pressures (1.8–7.5 GPa), antigorite dehydrates into forsterite and clinoenstatite as temperatures increase; with the continuous increase in pressure, the dehydration products become clinoenstatite and phase A. At high pressures (>8.6 GPa), the products of the dehydration phase transition of antigorite are consistently clinoenstatite and phase A. Compared with the previous studies carried out by large-volume presses (such as a multi anvil press and a piston-cylinder press), the reaction to produce phase A occurs at higher P–T conditions, and the stable temperature region for talc as a dehydration product is narrower. Moreover, large quantities of pores with 5–10 μm in diameter formed in dehydration products, supporting the hypothesis that intermediate-depth earthquakes may result from dehydration embrittlement. The precise phase boundary determined by this in situ study provides a better understanding of the dehydration phase transition behavior and geological phenomena exhibited by antigorite under different pressure and temperature conditions.
Editorial for Special Issue “Clay Mineral Transformations after Bentonite/Clayrocks and Heater/Water Interactions from Lab and Large-Scale Tests”
Authors: Fernández Ana María , Kaufhold Stephan , Olin Markus , Zheng Lian-Ge , Wersin Paul , Wilson James
Published: May 2022

This Special Issue “Clay Mineral Transformations after Bentonite/Clayrocks and Heater/Water Interactions from Lab and Large-Scale Tests” covers a broad range of relevant and interesting topics related to deep geological disposal of nuclear fuels and radioactive waste [...]
A Review on Mechanisms of Thermally Induced Volume Changes in Fine Soil
Authors: Hoseinimighani Hamed , Szendefy Janos
Published: May 2022

New geotechnical applications such as nuclear waste disposal, geothermal structure, thermally active landfills, and other structures dealing with temperature fluctuations in the short-term and long-term, have made it almost impossible to neglect the effect of temperature on the mechanical behavior of soils such as in conventional geotechnical designs. An important aspect in geotechnical engineering has always been the volumetric behavior that could be more critical in fine soils due to their complex nature. Therefore, a clear understanding on thermally induced volume changes in fine soils is essential in order to perform such thermal related geotechnical designs and to ensure safety and functionality during their lifetime. In this context, this paper presents a critical review on the current knowledge for thermally induced volumetric changes in fine soils as well as the effect of temperature on mechanical parameters. Thermal volume expansion and contraction occur in fine soils based on their stress history; however, some essential questions and discrepancies are still unresolved. The further assessment of proposed mechanisms is conducted in this paper that highlight the importance of microstructure and chemical interactions to be considered when studying thermal volume changes in fine soils.
Turn on Fluorescence Sensing of Zn2+ Based on Fused Isoindole-Imidazole Scaffold
Authors: Sahu Sutapa , Sikdar Yeasin , Bag Riya , Cerezo Javier , Cerón-Carrasco José P. , Goswami Sanchita
Published: May 2022

Optical chemosensors caused a revolution in the field of sensing due to their high specificity, sensitivity, and fast detection features. Imidazole derivatives have offered promising features in the literature as they bear suitable donor/acceptor groups for the selective analytes in the skeleton. In this work, an isoindole-imidazole containing a Schiff base chemosensor (1-{3-[(2-Diethylamino-ethylimino)-methyl]-2-hydroxy-5-methyl-phenyl}-2H-imidazo[5,1-a]isoindole-3,5-dione) was designed and synthesized. The complete sensing phenomena have been investigated by means of UV-Vis, fluorescence, lifetime measurement, FT-IR, NMR and ESI-MS spectroscopic techniques. The optical properties of the synthesized ligand were investigated in 3:7 HEPES buffer:DMSO medium and found to be highly selective and sensitive toward Zn2+ ion through a fluorescence turn-on response with detection limit of 0.073 μm. Furthermore, this response is effective in gel form also. The competition studies reveal that the response of the probe for Zn2+ ion is unaffected by other relevant metal ions. The stoichiometric binding study was performed utilizing Job’s method which indicated a 1:1 sensor–Zn2+ ensemble. Computational calculations were performed to pinpoint the mechanism of sensing.
Diels–Alder Adducts of Morphinan-6,8-Dienes and Their Transformations
Authors: Marton János , Fekete Anikó , Cumming Paul , Hosztafi Sándor , Mikecz Pál , Henriksen Gjermund
Published: May 2022

6,14-ethenomorphinans are semisynthetic opiate derivatives containing an ethylene bridge between positions 6 and 14 in ring-C of the morphine skeleton that imparts a rigid molecular structure. These compounds represent an important family of opioid receptor ligands in which the 6,14-etheno bridged structural motif originates from a [4 + 2] cycloaddition of morphinan-6,8-dienes with dienophiles. Certain 6,14-ethenomorphinans having extremely high affinity for opioid receptors are often non-selective for opioid receptor subtypes, but this view is now undergoing some revision. The agonist 20R-etorphine and 20R-dihydroetorphine are several thousand times more potent analgesics than morphine, whereas diprenorphine is a high-affinity non-selective antagonist. The partial agonist buprenorphine is used as an analgesic in the management of post-operative pain or in substitution therapy for opiate addiction, sometimes in combination with the non-selective antagonist naloxone. In the context of the current opioid crisis, we communicated a summary of several decades of work toward generating opioid analgesics with lesser side effects or abuse potential. Our summary placed a focus on Diels–Alder reactions of morphinan-6,8-dienes and subsequent transformations of the cycloadducts. We also summarized the pharmacological aspects of radiolabeled 6,14-ethenomorphinans used in molecular imaging of opioid receptors.
Metabolomics Research in Periodontal Disease by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Tsuchida Sachio , Nakayama Tomohiro
Published: May 2022

Periodontology is a newer field relative to other areas of dentistry. Remarkable progress has been made in recent years in periodontology in terms of both research and clinical applications, with researchers worldwide now focusing on periodontology. With recent advances in mass spectrometry technology, metabolomics research is now widely conducted in various research fields. Metabolomics, which is also termed metabolomic analysis, is a technology that enables the comprehensive analysis of small-molecule metabolites in living organisms. With the development of metabolite analysis, methods using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, capillary electrophoresis–mass spectrometry, etc. have progressed, making it possible to analyze a wider range of metabolites and to detect metabolites at lower concentrations. Metabolomics is widely used for research in the food, plant, microbial, and medical fields. This paper provides an introduction to metabolomic analysis and a review of the increasing applications of metabolomic analysis in periodontal disease research using mass spectrometry technology.
Grapefruit Debittering by Simultaneous Naringin Hydrolysis and Limonin Adsorption Using Naringinase Immobilized in Agarose Supports
Authors: Muñoz Mariela , Holtheuer Jessica , Wilson Lorena , Urrutia Paulina
Published: May 2022

Naringin and limonin are the two main bitter compounds of citrus products such as grapefruit juice. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the reduction in both bitter components simultaneously using a combined biochemical and physical approach. The proposed strategy was based on the use of heterofunctional supports with glyoxyl groups that allow for the covalent immobilization of naringinase, which hydrolyses naringin and alkyl groups that allow for the adsorption of limonin. The supports were butyl-glyoxyl agarose (BGA) and octyl-glyoxyl agarose (OGA), which were characterized in terms of aldehyde group quantification and FTIR analysis. The optimal pH and temperature of free and immobilized enzymes were assessed. The maximum enzyme loading capacity of supports was analyzed. Debittering of grapefruit juice was evaluated using soluble enzyme, enzyme-free supports, and immobilized catalysts. Enzyme immobilized in BGA reduced naringin and limonin concentrations by 54 and 100%, respectively, while the use of catalyst immobilized in OGA allowed a reduction of 74 and 76%, respectively, obtaining a final concentration of both bitter components under their detection threshold. The use of OGA biocatalyst presented better results than when soluble enzyme or enzyme-free support was utilized. Biocatalyst was successfully applied in juice debittering in five repeated batches.
Upgrading Common Wheat Pasta by Fiber-Rich Fraction of Potato Peel Byproduct at Different Particle Sizes: Effects on Physicochemical, Thermal, and Sensory Properties
Authors: Namir Mohammad , Iskander Ali , Alyamani Amal , Sayed-Ahmed Eman , Saad Ahmed , Elsahy Kamal , El-Tarabily Khaled , Conte-Junior Carlos
Published: May 2022

Fiber-enriched food has numerous health benefits. This study develops functional fiber-enriched pasta (FEP) by partially substituting wheat flour for alcohol-insoluble residue prepared from potato peel byproducts (AIR-PPB) at various particle sizes (PS). The independent variables’ effects, AIR-PPB at 2–15% substitution levels, and PS 40–250 µm were investigated in terms of chemical, cooking, thermal, and sensory properties. AIR-PPB is rich in total dietary fibers (TDF) (83%), exhibiting high water-holding capacity (WHC) and vibrant colors. Different concentrations of AIR-PPB increase TDF content in FEPs by 7–21 times compared to the control pasta (CP). Although the optimal cooking time (OCT) decreases by 15–18% compared to CP, where a lower OCT should reduce cooking time and save energy, cooking loss (Cl) increases slightly but remains within an acceptable range of 8%. Additionally, AIR-PPB altered the texture properties of FEP, with a moderate decrease in mass increase index (MII), firmness, and stickiness. AIR-PPB impairs the gluten network’s structure in pasta due to AIR-PPB’s WHC, which competes with starch for water binding, increasing the starch gelatinization temperature. FEPs show an increased lightness and yellowness and improved sensory properties. Highly acceptable FEPs were obtained for the following substitution levels: FEP11 (AIR-PPB at 2% and PS of 145 µm), FEP9 (AIR-PPB 4% level with PS of 70 µm), FEP6 (AIR-PPB of 4% level with 219 µm PS), and FEP1 (AIR-PPB = 8.5% with 40 µm PS), as compared to other FEPs.
Isolation of Echimidine and Its C-7 Isomers from Echium plantagineum L. and Their Hepatotoxic Effect on Rat Hepatocytes
Authors: Gleńsk Michał , Dudek Marta K. , Kinkade Peter , Santos Evelyn C. S. , Glinski Vitold B. , Ferreira Daneel , Seweryn Ewa , Kaźmierski Sławomir , Calixto Joao B. , Glinski Jan A.
Published: May 2022

Echimidine is the main pyrrolizidine alkaloid of Echium plantagineum L., a plant domesticated in many countries. Because of echimidine’s toxicity, this alkaloid has become a target of the European Food Safety Authority regulations, especially in regard to honey contamination. In this study, we determined by NMR spectroscopy that the main HPLC peak purified from zinc reduced plant extract with an MS [M + H]+ signal at m/z 398 corresponding to echimidine (1), and in fact also represents an isomeric echihumiline (2). A third isomer present in the smallest amount and barely resolved by HPLC from co-eluting (1) and (2) was identified as hydroxymyoscorpine (3). Before the zinc reduction, alkaloids (1) and (2) were present mostly (90%) in the form of an N-oxide, which formed a single peak in HPLC. This is the first report of finding echihumiline and hydroxymyoscorpine in E. plantagineum. Retroanalysis of our samples of E. plantagineum collected in New Zealand, Argentina and the USA confirmed similar co-occurrence of the three isomeric alkaloids. In rat hepatocyte primary culture cells, the alkaloids at 3 to 300 µg/mL caused concentration-dependent inhibition of hepatocyte viability with mean IC50 values ranging from 9.26 to 14.14 µg/mL. Our discovery revealed that under standard HPLC acidic conditions, echimidine co-elutes with its isomers, echihumiline and to a lesser degree with hydroxymyoscorpine, obscuring real alkaloidal composition, which may have implications for human toxicity.
Antioxidant Activity of Acanthopanax senticosus Flavonoids in H2O2-Induced RAW 264.7 Cells and DSS-Induced Colitis in Mice
Authors: Su Jianqing , Zhang Xinyu , Kan Qibin , Chu Xiuling
Published: May 2022

The redox reaction is a normal process of biological metabolism in the body that leads to the production of free radicals. Under conditions such as pathogenic infection, stress, and drug exposure, free radicals can exceed normal levels, causing protein denaturation, DNA damage, and the oxidation of the cell membrane, which, in turn, causes inflammation. Acanthopanax senticosus (A. senticosus) flavonoids are the main bioactive ingredients with antioxidant function. H2O2-treated RAW 264.7 cells and DSS-induced colitis in mice were used to evaluate the antioxidant properties of A. senticosus flavonoids. The results show that A. senticosus flavonoids can significantly downregulate the levels of ROS and MDA in H2O2-treated RAW 264.7 cells and increase the levels of CAT, SOD, and GPx. A. senticosus flavonoids can also increase the body weights of DSS-induced colitis mice, increase the DAI index, and ameliorate the shortening of the colon. ELISA experiments confirmed that A. senticosus flavonoids could reduce the level of MDA in the mouse serum and increase the levels of SOD, CAT, and GPx. Histopathology showed that the tissue pathological changes in the A. senticosus flavonoid group were significantly lower than those in the DSS group. The Western blot experiments showed that the antioxidant capacity of A. senticosus flavonoids was accomplished through the Nrf2 pathway. In conclusion, A. senticosus flavonoids can relieve oxidative stress in vivo and in vitro and protect cells or tissues from oxidative damage.
An Update on the Use of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers in Beta-Blocker Drug Analysis as a Selective Separation Method in Biological and Environmental Analysis
Authors: Hasanah Aliya Nur , Susanti Ike , Mutakin Mutakin
Published: May 2022

Beta-blockers are antihypertensive drugs and can be abused by athletes in some sport competitions; it is therefore necessary to monitor beta-blocker levels in biological samples. In addition, beta-blocker levels in environmental samples need to be monitored to determine whether there are contaminants from the activities of the pharmaceutical industry. Several extraction methods have been developed to separate beta-blocker drugs in a sample, one of which is molecularly imprinted polymer solid-phase extraction (MIP-SPE). MIPs have some advantages, including good selectivity, high affinity, ease of synthesis, and low cost. This review provides an overview of the polymerization methods for synthesizing MIPs of beta-blocker groups. The methods that are still widely used to synthesize MIPs for beta-blockers are the bulk polymerization method and the precipitation polymerization method. MIPs for beta-blockers still need further development, especially since many types of beta-blockers have not been used as templates in the MIP synthesis process and modification of the MIP sorbent is required, to obtain high throughput analysis.
Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders—Plants and Potential Mechanisms of Action of Their Constituents
Authors: Czigle Szilvia , Bittner Fialová Silvia , Tóth Jaroslav , Mučaji Pavel , Nagy Milan ,   on behalf of the OEMONOM
Published: May 2022

The worldwide prevalence of gastrointestinal diseases is about 40%, with standard pharmacotherapy being long-lasting and economically challenging. Of the dozens of diseases listed by the Rome IV Foundation criteria, for five of them (heartburn, dyspepsia, nausea and vomiting disorder, constipation, and diarrhoea), treatment with herbals is an official alternative, legislatively supported by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). However, for most plants, the Directive does not require a description of the mechanisms of action, which should be related to the therapeutic effect of the European plant in question. This review article, therefore, summarizes the basic pharmacological knowledge of synthetic drugs used in selected functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) and correlates them with the constituents of medicinal plants. Therefore, the information presented here is intended as a starting point to support the claim that both empirical folk medicine and current and decades-old treatments with official herbal remedies have a rational basis in modern pharmacology.
5,2′-Dibromo-2,4′,5′-trihydroxydiphenylmethanone Inhibits LPS-Induced Vascular Inflammation by Targeting the Cav1 Protein
Authors: Yuan Hongxia , Hou Qianyi , Feng Xiue , Zhang Yuanlin , Yang Fan , Ge Rui , Li Qingshan
Published: May 2022

Vascular inflammation is directly responsible for atherosclerosis. 5,2′-Dibromo-2,4′,5′-trihydroxydiphenylmethanone (TDD), a synthetic bromophenol derivative, exhibits anti-atherosclerosis and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the underlying pathways are not yet clear. In this study, we first examined the effects of TDD on toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) activity, the signaling receptor for lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and found that TDD does not inhibit LPS-induced TLR4 expression in EA.hy926 cells and the vascular wall in vivo. Next, we investigated the global protein alterations and the mechanisms underlying the action of TDD in LPS-treated EA.hy926 cells using an isobaric tag for the relative and absolute quantification technique. Western blot analysis revealed that TDD inhibited NF-κB activation by regulating the phosphorylation and subsequent degradation IκBα. Among the differentially expressed proteins, TDD concentration-dependently inhibited Caveolin 1(Cav1) expression. The interaction between Cav1 and TDD was determined by using biolayer interference assay, UV-vis absorption spectra, fluorescence spectrum, and molecular docking. We found that TDD can directly bind to Cav1 through hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces. In conclusion, our results showed that TDD inhibited LPS-induced vascular inflammation and the NF-κB signaling pathway by specifically targeting the Cav1 protein. TDD may be a novel anti-inflammatory compound, especially for the treatment of atherosclerosis.
Gas Sensors Based on Porous Ceramic Bodies of MSnO3 Perovskites (M = Ba, Ca, Zn): Formation and Sensing Properties towards Ethanol, Acetone, and Toluene Vapours
Authors: Ochoa-Muñoz Yasser H. , Mejía de Gutiérrez Ruby , Rodríguez-Páez Jorge E. , Gràcia Isabel , Vallejos Stella
Published: May 2022

In this work, the gas-sensing functionality of porous ceramic bodies formed by the slip casting technique was studied using perovskite nanoparticles of an MSnO3 system (M = Ba, Ca, Zn) synthesized by a chemical route. The performance and reliability of the sensitive materials in the presence of different volatile organic compounds (acetone, ethanol, and toluene), and other gases (CO, H2 and NO2) were analysed. The ZnSnO3, BaSnO3, and CaSnO3 sensors showed sensitivities of 40, 16, and 8% ppm−1 towards acetone, ethanol, and toluene vapours, respectively. Good repeatability and selectivity were also observed for these gaseous analytes, as well as excellent stability for a period of 120 days. The shortest response times were recorded for the ZnSnO3 sensors (e.g., 4 s for 80 ppm acetone) with marked responses to low concentrations of acetone (1000 ppb). These results are attributed to the porosity of the sensitive materials, which favours the diffusion of gases, induces surface defects, and provides greater surface area and good sensitivity to acetone, as is seen in the case of ZnSnO3.
Isolation and HPLC Quantitative Determination of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors from Tectona grandis L.f. Leaf Extract
Authors: Insumrong Kamonlak , Ingkaninan Kornkanok , Waranuch Neti , Tanuphol Nutchaninad , Wisuitiprot Wudtichai , Promgool Trinop , Suphrom Nungruthai
Published: May 2022

Steroid 5α-reductase plays a crucial role in catalyzing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, which is involved in many androgen-dependent disorders. Leaf-hexane extract from Tectona grandis L.f. has shown promise as a 5α-reductase inhibitor. The objectives of this current study were to isolate and identify 5α-reductase inhibitors from T. grandis leaves and to use them as the bioactive markers for standardization of the extract. Three terpenoid compounds, (+)-eperua-8,13-dien-15-oic acid (1), (+)-eperua-7,13-dien-15-oic acid (2), and lupeol (3), were isolated and evaluated for 5α-reductase inhibitory activity. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited potent 5α-reductase inhibitory activity, while 3 showed weak inhibitory activity. An HPLC method for the quantitative determination of the two potent inhibitors (1 and 2), applicable for quality control of T. grandis leaf extracts, was also developed. The ethanolic extract showed a significantly higher content of 1 and 2 than found in the hexane extract, suggesting that ethanol is a preferable extraction solvent. This study is the first reported isolation of 5α-reductase inhibitors (1 and 2) from T. grandis leaves. The extraction and quality control methods that are safe and useful for further development of T. grandis leaf extract as an active ingredient for hair loss treatment products are also reported.
Powerful Antioxidants and Cytotoxic Activities of the Methanol Extracts from Eight Soybean Cultivars
Authors: Abd Elhamid Mohamed A. , Mandour Abd Elrahman S. , Ismail Tarek A. , Al-Zohairy Ahmed M. , Almowallad Sanaa , Alqahtani Leena S. , Osman Ali
Published: May 2022

In the present study, the chemical composition and total phenolic (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFC) of eight soybean cultivars (Giza 21, Giza 22, Giza 35, Giza 111, Giza 82, Giza 83, Crawford, and Holliday) were estimated. Moreover, antioxidant activity and in vitro cytotoxic activities against HepG-2 and MCF-7 were evaluated. Giza 21, Giza 111, and Crawford cultivars recorded higher than 40% crude protein. The analysis revealed that TPC values in seed extracts ranged from 10.5 mg GAE/g extract in Giza 35 to 6.4 mg GAE/g extract in Giza 22. TFC varied from 1.20 mg QE/g extract in Giza 111 to 0.55 mg QE/g extract in Crawford. Giza 35 exhibited the highest content of genistein and daidzein and the highest free radical scavenging activity (61.833%). The results of the MTT assay demonstrated that the soybean methanolic extracts inhibited the proliferation of HepG-2 and MCF-7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Giza 35 exhibited the highest cytotoxic activity. In conclusion, Giza 35 cultivar recorded the highest TPC and TFC values and antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. Therefore, this cultivar can be used as a source for the production of pharmaceutical and medicinal products rather than as a nutritional source of protein.
Reduction and Elimination of Humic Acid Fouling in Air Sparged Membrane Distillation Using Nanocarbon Immobilized Membrane
Authors: Bhoumick Mitun Chandra , Roy Sagar , Mitra Somenath
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we present the treatment of humic acid solution via carbon nanotube immobilized membrane (CNIM) distillation assisted by air sparging (AS). Carbon nanotubes offer excellent hydrophobicity to the modified membrane surface and actively transport water vapor molecules through the membrane to generate higher vapor flux and better rejection of humic acid. The introduction of air sparging in the membrane distillation (MD) system has changed the humic substance fouling by changing the colloidal behavior of the deposits. This modified MD system can sustain a higher run time of separation and has enhanced the evaporation efficiency by 20% more than the regular membrane distillation. The air sparging has reduced the deposition by 30% in weight and offered lesser fouling of membrane surface even after a longer operating cycle. The water vapor flux increased with temperature and decreased as the volumetric concentrating factor (VCF) increased. The mass transfer coefficient was found to be the highest for the air sparged—carbon nanotube immobilized membrane (AS-CNIM) integrated membrane distillation. While the highest change in mass transfer coefficient (MTC) was found for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane with air sparging at 70 °C.
A Quinoxaline−Naphthaldehyde Conjugate for Colorimetric Determination of Copper Ion
Authors: Sahu Sutapa , Sikdar Yeasin , Bag Riya , Drew Michael G. B. , Cerón-Carrasco José P. , Goswami Sanchita
Published: May 2022

This work facilitates detection of bivalent copper ion by a simple Schiff base probe QNH based on a quinoxaline−naphthaldehyde framework. The detailed study in absorption spectroscopy and theoretical aspects and crystal study of the probe and probe−copper complex has been discussed. The detection limit of the probe in the presence of Cu2+ is 0.45 µM in HEPES−buffer/acetonitrile (3/7, v/v) medium for absorption study. The reversibility of the probe−copper complex has been investigated by EDTA. The selective visual detection of copper has been established also in gel form.
3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzoate of Catechin, an Anticarcinogenic Semisynthetic Catechin, Modulates the Physical Properties of Anionic Phospholipid Membranes
Authors: Aranda Elisa , Teruel José A. , Ortiz Antonio , Pérez-Cárceles María Dolores , Rodríguez-López José N. , Aranda Francisco J.
Published: May 2022

3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzoate of catechin (TMBC) is a semisynthetic catechin which shows strong antiproliferative activity against malignant melanoma cells. The amphiphilic nature of the molecule suggests that the membrane could be a potential site of action, hence the study of its interaction with lipid bilayers is mandatory in order to gain information on the effect of the catechin on the membrane properties and dynamics. Anionic phospholipids, though being minor components of the membrane, possess singular physical and biochemical properties that make them physiologically essential. Utilizing phosphatidylserine biomimetic membranes, we study the interaction between the catechin and anionic bilayers, bringing together a variety of experimental techniques and molecular dynamics simulation. The experimental data suggest that the molecule is embedded into the phosphatidylserine bilayers, where it perturbs the thermotropic gel to liquid crystalline phase transition. In the gel phase, the catechin promotes the formation of interdigitation, and in the liquid crystalline phase, it decreases the bilayer thickness and increases the hydrogen bonding pattern of the interfacial region of the bilayer. The simulation data agree with the experimental ones and indicate that the molecule is located in the interior of the anionic bilayer as monomer and small clusters reaching the carbonyl region of the phospholipid, where it also disturbs the intermolecular hydrogen bonding between neighboring lipids. Our observations suggest that the catechin incorporates well into phosphatidylserine bilayers, where it produces structural changes that could affect the functioning of the membrane.
Comparison of Extraction Techniques for the Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds in Liverwort Samples
Authors: Guzowska Małgorzata , Wasiak Wiesław , Wawrzyniak Rafał
Published: May 2022

This article focuses on the comparison of four popular techniques for the extraction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from liverworts of the Calypogeia azurea species. Since extraction is the most important step in the sample analysis of ingredients present in botanical preparations, their strengths, and weaknesses are discussed. In order to determine the VOCs present in plants, selecting the appropriate one is a key step of the extraction technique. Extraction should ensure the isolation of all components present in the oily bodies of Calypogeia azurea without the formation of any artifacts during treatment. The best extraction method should yield the determined compounds in detectable amounts. Hydrodistillation (HD), applying Deryng apparatus and solid-liquid extraction (SLE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) were used for volatile extraction. The extracts obtained were analysed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to determine the compounds.
Effects of Cadmium on Physiochemistry and Bioactive Substances of Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.)
Authors: Wang Yunqiang , Lei Zhen , Ye Rongbin , Zhou Wei , Zhou Ying , Zou Zhengkang , Li Junli , Yi Licong , Dai Zhaoyi
Published: May 2022

Muskmelon pedicel is the fruit stalk of muskmelon and one of the traditional Chinese medicines, which can be used to treat jaundice, diabetes and neuropathy. However, in recent years, agricultural soil heavy metal cadmium (Cd) pollution has become serious, coupled with the imperfect sales management of herbal medicine, increasing the potential health risk of contaminated herbal medicine in the human body. In this paper, the comprehensive quality of contaminated muskmelon was tested. The results showed that Cd stress significantly inhibited the growth of muskmelon plants, reduced the anthocyanin and chlorophyll contents, and increased the fruit size and sweetness of muskmelon. In addition, heavy metal Cd can also cause oxidative stress in plants, resulting in a series of changes in antioxidant enzyme activities. In the experimental group, the content of polyphenols and saponins increased by 27.02% and 23.92%, respectively, after high-concentration Cd treatment, which may be a mechanism of plant resistance to stress. This paper reveals that the content of bioactive substances in Chinese herbal medicine is high, but the harm in heavy metals cannot be underestimated, which should be paid attention to by relevant departments.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity Studies of the Conjugates of Curcumin with closo-Dodecaborate and Cobalt Bis(Dicarbollide) Boron Clusters
Authors: Druzina Anna A. , Grammatikova Natalia E. , Zhidkova Olga B. , Nekrasova Natalia A. , Dudarova Nadezhda V. , Kosenko Irina D. , Grin Mikhail A. , Bregadze Vladimir I.
Published: May 2022

A series of novel conjugates of cobalt bis(dicarbollide) and closo-dodecaborate with curcumin were synthesized by copper(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition. These conjugates were tested for antibacterial activity. It was shown that all derivatives are active when exposed to Bacillus cereus ATCC 10702 and are not active against Gram-negative microorganisms and Candida albicans at the maximum studied concentration of 1000 mg/L. The conjugate of alkynyl-curcumin with azide synthesized from the tetrahydropyran derivative of cobalt bis(dicarbollide) exhibited activity against Gram-positive microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 and the clinical isolate MRSA 17, that surpassed curcumin by 2–4 times.
Too Low Motivation, Too High Authority? Digital Media Support for Co-Curation in Local Cultural Heritage Communities
Authors: Blaschitz Edith , Mayr Eva , Oppl Stefan
Published: May 2022

Over the last decades, a shift towards participatory approaches could be observed in cultural heritage institutions. In co-curation processes, museums collaborate with public audiences to identify, select, prepare, and interpret cultural materials. This article focuses on the question how to engage and motivate local communities or individuals in rethinking dominant discourses or expert narratives regarding cultural heritage and bringing in their own experiences and knowledge. Based on four case studies of cultural co-curation, we delineate two basic challenges for this process: (1) Authority—even though museums strive to involve the public, there is still an imbalance in participation due to the museums’ authoritative status. (2) Motivation—participation in co-curation processes requires high levels of motivation, which are difficult to achieve. Based on the media synchronicity theory, we discuss which characteristics of new media technologies can be helpful to overcome these challenges. Media can increase awareness on counternarratives and blind spots in cultural collections. They can provide a setting where the participants can easily contribute, feel competent to do so, are empowered to rethink dominant discourses, develop a sense of relatedness with other contributors, and maintain autonomy in how and to which degree they engage in the discourse.
Study on the Aqueous CdTe Quantum Dots Solar Device Deposited by Blade Coating on Magnesium Zinc Oxide Window Layer
Authors: Lv Bin , Liu Xia , Yan Bo , Deng Juan , Gao Fan , Chen Naibo , Wu Xiaoshan
Published: May 2022

Aqueous CdTe quantum dots solar cells have been successfully fabricated by the blade coating method on the magnesium zinc oxide (Zn1−xMgxO or ZMO) window layer. Compared with the ZMO mono-window layer, the ZMO/CdS bi-window layer can decrease the interface recombination effectively due to the lower lattice mismatch and fast interdiffusion between CdS and CdTe. Moreover, the high temperature annealing of the CdTe quantum dots absorbed layer passivates the grain boundary of the CdTe crystalline via the replacement reaction of tellurium with sulfur. Finally, the conversion efficiency of our aqueous CdTe quantum dots solar device is improved from 3.21% to 8.06% with the introduction of the CdS interlayer and high temperature CdCl2 annealing. Our aqueous CdTe quantum dots solar devices show a large open circuit voltage and fill factor which are comparable with the conventional devices that are fabricated with organic CdTe quantum dots. We believe that it is the spike-like conduction band alignment between the ZMO and CdTe absorbed layer that reduces the majority carrier concentration, leading to the decrease in interface recombination probability.
Ferromagnetic Behavior and Magneto-Optical Properties of Semiconducting Co-Doped ZnO
Authors: Di Trolio Antonio , Testa Alberto M. , Amore Bonapasta Aldo
Published: May 2022

ZnO is a well-known semiconducting material showing a wide bandgap and an n-type intrinsic behavior of high interest in applications such as transparent electronics, piezoelectricity, optoelectronics, and photovoltaics. This semiconductor becomes even more attractive when doped with a few atomic percent of a transition metal. Indeed, e.g., the introduction of substitutional Co atoms in ZnO (ZCO) induces the appearance of room temperature ferromagnetism (RT-FM) and magneto-optical effects, making this material one of the most important representatives of so-called dilute magnetic semiconductors (DMSs). In the present review, we discuss the magnetic and magneto-optical properties of Co-doped ZnO thin films by considering also the significant improvements in the properties induced by post-growth irradiation with atomic hydrogen. We also show how all of these properties can be accounted for by a theoretical model based on the formation of Co-VO (oxygen vacancy) complexes and the concurrent presence of shallow donor defects, thus giving a sound support to this model to explain the RT-FM in ZCO DMSs.
Green Synthesis of Phosphorous-Containing Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles (nHAP) as a Novel Nano-Fertilizer: Preliminary Assessment on Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)
Authors: Abdelmigid Hala M. , Morsi Maissa M. , Hussien Nahed Ahmed , Alyamani Amal Ahmed , Alhuthal Nawal Abdallah , Albukhaty Salim
Published: May 2022

Nano-fertilizers are innovative materials created by nanotechnology methodologies that may potentially replace traditional fertilizers due to their rapid absorption and controlled distribution of nutrients in plants. In the current study, phosphorous-containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (nHAP) were synthesized as a novel phosphorus nano-fertilizer using an environmentally friendly green synthesis approach using pomegranate peel (PPE) and coffee ground (CE) extracts. nHAPs were physicochemically characterized and biologically evaluated utilizing the analysis of biochemical parameters such as photosynthetic activity, carbohydrate levels, metabolites, and biocompatibility changes in Punica granatum L. Cytocompatibility with mammalian cells was also investigated based on MTT assay on a Vero cell line. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential analysis were used to characterize the nHAPs for size and surface charge as well as morphology using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The nHAPs were found to have different shapes with average sizes of 229.6 nm, 120.6 nm (nHAPs_PPE) and 167.5 nm, 153 nm (nHAPs_CE) using DLS and TEM, respectively. Overall, the present results showed that the synthesized nHAPs had a negative impact on the selected biochemical, cytotoxic, and genotoxic parameters, indicating that the evaluation of nHAP synthesized by this approach has a wide range of applications, especially as a nano-fertilizer.
L’organe de facto dans la responsabilité internationale : Curia, quo vadis ?
Authors: Distefano Giovanni , Hêche Aymeric
Published: May 2022

Ainsi que le rappellent les différences de vue entre la CIJ et le TPIY en filigrane du contrôle «effectif » ou «global » , l’attribution à l’Etat d’actes de simples particuliers est l’une des vexatae quaestiones de la responsabilité internationale. L’article propose de retracer les grandes étapes de la réflexion, ainsi que de brosser un panorama de l’évolution de l’organe de facto à travers un examen des travaux de la CDI (sous l’angle des articles 4 et 8 du Texte d’articles de 2001) et de quatre affaires portées devant la CIJ ou le TPIY. Une attention toute particulière est dévolue à l’apparition du critère du contrôle effectif en lien avec l’article 8 du Texte d’articles de 2001. Quant aux fluctuations du contrôle effectif ou global dans la jurisprudence des deux cours, l’article vise à démontrer que, par un jeu de vases communicants, l’instauration du nouveau critère de la «totale dépendance » issu de l’affaire du Génocide dans le cadre de l’article 4 du Texte d’articles de 2001 correspond aux développements consacrés par le TPIY dans l’affaire Tadic au contrôle «global » rattaché à l’article 8 du Texte d’articles de 2001.
Le tracé d’une frontière dans la zone située au-delà de 200 milles marins en l’absence de recommandations de la Commission des Limites du Plateau Continental
Authors: Kunoy Bjorn
Published: May 2022

Parmi les différends liés à la délimitation du plateau continental qui ont récemment été déferrés aux cours et tribunaux internationaux il y en a qui concerne aussi la partie du plateau continental située au-delà de la ligne de 200 milles marins. Trait common pour ces différends est que la commission des limites du plateau continental n’a pas considéré les demandes respectives de vocation aux titres. Les foras auxquels de tels différends ont été déférés ont exercé leur compétence juridictionnelle nonobstant que la commission des limites du plateau continental n’a pas considéré les demandes proposées des États concernés. L’élément central sur lequel ces fora ont cherché à justifier une telle exercice de compétence est qu’en droit international il n’y a qu’un plateau continental. En cherchant à s’abstenir à empiéter sur les compétences de la commission des limites du plateau continental, des lignes sont tracées alors que la vocation de titre sur cette partie du plateau continental n’a pas été déterminée. Une telle approche semble omettre de s’attacher aux principes judiciaires régissant l’exercice de la compétence juridictionnelle et dévier des méthodes régissant la méthode de délimitation.
L’affaire de l’Arctic Sunrise (Pays-Bas c. Russie) devant le Tribunal international du droit de la mer et la Cour permanente d’arbitrage
Authors: Moulier Isabelle
Published: May 2022

L’affaire de l’Arctic Sunrise concerne un différend opposant les Pays-Bas à la Russie suite à l’arraisonnement, l’immobilisation et la saisie par la Russie de l’Arctic Sunrise, navire battant pavillon néerlandais, dans la zone économique exclusive de la Russie le 19 septembre 2013, et à l’arrestation et la détention de son équipage. Après que le Tribunal international du droit de la mer eut prescrit des mesures conservatoires le 22 novembre 2013, l’affaire s’est poursuivie devant un tribunal arbitral constitué dans le cadre de la Cour permanente d’arbitrage. La sentence rendue par le Tribunal arbitral le 14 août 2015 reconnaît, à l’unanimité, la responsabilité internationale de la Russie, condamnée à indemniser les Pays-Bas. Les sentences sur la compétence et sur le fond de l’affaire permettent de lever le voile sur des questions juridiques passées sous silence par le Tribunal international du droit de la mer. Cette affaire a notamment donné l’occasion au Tribunal arbitral de clarifier les limites des pouvoirs de police de l’État côtier dans sa zone économique exclusive, soumise à la liberté de navigation, dont le droit de protestation pacifique en mer constitue un corollaire.
Sentence arbitrale sur la compétence et la recevabilité du 29 octobre 2015 dans l’Arbitrage entre la République des Philippines c. République populaire de Chine devant la Cour permanente d’arbitrage
Authors: Iten Jean-Louis
Published: May 2022

La sentence arbitrale sur la compétence et la recevabilité rendue le 29 octobre 2015 dans l’affaire qui oppose les Philippines à la Chine s’intéresse à l’une des questions les plus sensibles d’Asie du Sud-Est : la souveraineté des îlots et rochers du sud de la mer de Chine. Toutefois, le Tribunal est très largement entravé dans sa mission de règlement du différend. D’une part, sa compétence est limitée aux questions relatives à l’application ou l’interprétation de la Convention sur le droit de la mer. D’autre part, il doit se prononcer en l’absence du défendeur et des États tiers intéressés. Malgré ces difficultés et au prix d’un raisonnement parfois contestable, il parvient à se déclarer partiellement compétent, l’appréciation de la compétence pour certaines demandes étant renvoyée à l’examen du fond.