bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beijing’s First Green Belt—A 50-Year Long Chinese Planning Story
Authors: Sun Lu , Fertner Christian , Jørgensen Gertrud
Published: September 2021

This article traces the development process of Beijing’s First Green Belt from its origins in the 1950s, to its reinterpretation in the 1980s/1990s and its implementation in the 1990s/2000s. We identify three-time phases and important milestones, which kept the green belt idea alive, developed it and contextualized it in relation to the historical background. This article shows that the first green belt project in Beijing was a continuing process of changing functions and ranges. Its adaptability to variations followed the political changes and reflected the socio-economic dynamics, which secured its longevity. Different ideas shaped the plan and its link to mega events like the Olympic Games and environmental problems accelerated the implementation, but the shortage of funding and absence of legislation led to a compromised result. The case is an interesting example of how a long-term project transforms over and with time, but also for the gap between planning ambitions and actual urban development, illustrating past and contemporary urban planning in the context of a fast-developing country.
“We’re Not Being Treated Like Mothers”: Listening to the Stories of First Nations Mothers in Prison
Authors: Anthony Thalia , Sentance Gemma , Behrendt Larissa
Published: September 2021

This article is based on research with over 160 First Nations women in prisons in New South Wales, Australia. The research identified the lived experience of prison sentences for First Nations women in prison. Our research methodology was guided by an Aboriginal women’s advisory body called sista2sista. It was based on the principles of Dadirri in which we listened to the stories of First Nations women in prison on their terms. Consequently, many stories we heard were not about the criminal sentencing process itself, but about the impacts of imprisonment on their capacity to be caregivers in the community, including as mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, teachers and role models. The findings from this research are dual. First, the importance of listening to and empowering First Nations women in prison in policy making that concerns First Nations women. Second, the need to decarcerate First Nations mothers and listen and respond to their needs, expectations, priorities and aspirations, to ensure they are supported in fulfilling their role and responsibility to care, nurture, strengthen and lead their families and communities.
Intelligent Vehicle Scheduling and Routing for a Chain of Retail Stores: A Case Study of Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman M. Azizur , Hossain Al-Amin , Debnath Binoy , Zefat Zinnat Mahmud , Morshed Mohammad Sarwar , Adnan Ziaul Haq
Published: September 2021

Background: Retail chains aim to maintain a competitive advantage by ensuring product availability and fulfilling customer demand on-time. However, inefficient scheduling and vehicle routing from the distribution center may cause delivery delays and, thus, stock-outs on the store shelves. Therefore, optimization of vehicle routing can play a vital role in fulfilling customer demand. Methods: In this research, a case study is formulated for a chain of retail stores in Dhaka City, Bangladesh. Orders from various stores are combined, grouped, and scheduled for Region-1 and Region-2 of Dhaka City. The ‘vehicle routing add-on’ feature of Google Sheets is used for scheduling and navigation. An android application, Intelligent Route Optimizer, is developed using the shortest path first algorithm based on the Dijkstra algorithm. The vehicle navigation scheme is programmed to change the direction according to the shortest possible path in the google map generated by the intelligent routing optimizer. Results: With the application, the improvement of optimization results is evident from the reductions of traveled distance (8.1% and 12.2%) and time (20.2% and 15.0%) in Region-1 and Region-2, respectively. Conclusions: A smartphone-based application is developed to improve the distribution plan. It can be utilized for an intelligent vehicle routing system to respond to real-time traffic; hence, the overall replenishment process will be improved.
Model for Evaluating Outsourcing Logistics Companies in the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Tsai Cheng-An , Ho Tien-Hwa , Lin Jyh-Shyan , Tu Chien-Chih , Chang Che-Wei
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected the world’s manufacturing industry, particularly in terms of the continued increase in logistics costs that has led to an increase in business operating costs. This study proposes a two-stage model for evaluating the most appropriate outsourcing logistics companies for a manufacturing factory. In the first stage, a modified Delphi method was used to recruit experienced experts to determine criteria for evaluating outsourcing logistics vendors and establish a hierarchical structure. In the second stage, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was used to evaluate suitable logistics companies based on the hierarchical structure. Finally, a case study was conducted to demonstrate the suitability of the two-stage model for evaluating outsourcing logistics companies for reducing logistics costs while maintaining service quality. The proposed model can be used as a basis for evaluating outsourcing logistics companies.
2-Oxo-2H-chromen-7-yl 4-chlorobenzoate
Authors: Becerra Diana , Portilla Jaime , Castillo Juan-Carlos
Published: September 2021

We describe the synthesis of 2-oxo-2H-chromen-7-yl 4-chlorobenzoate 3 in 88% yield by the O-acylation reaction of 7-hydroxy-2H-chromen-2-one 1 with 4-chlorobenzoyl chloride 2 in dichloromethane using a slight excess of triethylamine at 20 °C for 1 h. The ester 3 was completely characterized by mass spectrometry, IR, UV–Vis, 1D, and 2D NMR spectroscopy.
Hybrid Pyridine Bis-Anthracene-Imidazolium Salt: NMR Studies on Zn-Acetate Complexation
Authors: Amăriucăi-Mantu Dorina , Mangalagiu Violeta , Ciobanu Catalina-Ionica , Antoci Vasilichia
Published: September 2021

We report here the design and synthesis of a new hybrid bis-anthracene-imidazolium salt, having a pyridine scaffold. NMR studies of dimer generation, as well as complexation with zinc acetate were performed.
Critical Current Density and Vortex Dynamics in Pristine and Irradiated KCa2Fe4As4F2
Authors: Pyon Sunseng , Taya Soichi , Kobayashi Yuto , Takahashi Ayumu , Li Wenjie , Taen Toshihiro , Wang Teng , Mu Gang , Kitamura Hisashi , Ichinose Ataru , Tamegai Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2021

We report the critical current density (Jc) and vortex pinning properties in single crystals of a novel iron-based superconductor (IBS) KCa2Fe4As4F2 with large Jc in the pristine state, before and after introduction of artificial defects by swift-particle irradiation. The effects of 2.6 GeV U and 3 MeV proton irradiations in KCa2Fe4As4F2 single crystals on transition temperature Tc and Jc, including its dose dependence, are systematically studied. Jc~8 MA/cm2 under a self-field at 2 K in the pristine crystal is strongly enhanced up to 19.4 and 17.5 MA/cm2 by irradiation of 2.6 GeV U-ions and 3 MeV protons, respectively. Suppression of Tc and dose dependence of Jc in KCa2Fe4As4F2 is different from that in a representative IBS of (Ba,K)Fe2As2, which can be explained by considering the presence of embedded defects in pristine KCa2Fe4As4F2. The vortex dynamics in the pristine and proton irradiated KCa2Fe4As4F2 single crystals are also investigated from the analyses of the field dependence of Jc and the normalized magnetic relaxation rate. In addition to the contribution of embedded defects, weak collective pinning is considered for comprehensive analyses. Vortex dynamics in KCa2Fe4As4F2 is similar to those in (Ba,K)Fe2As2 to some extent, and different from that in anisotropic Li0.8Fe0.2OHFeSe. Large anisotropy, due to the presence of insulating blocking layers in KCa2Fe4As4F2, which leads to much lower irreversibility field (Hirr) compared with 122-type IBSs, strongly affect the vortex dynamics.
TiCoCrFeMn (BCC + C14) High-Entropy Alloy Multiphase Structure Analysis Based on the Theory of Molecular Orbitals
Authors: Gorniewicz Dominika , Przygucki Hubert , Kopec Mateusz , Karczewski Krzysztof , Jóźwiak Stanisław
Published: September 2021

High-entropy alloys (HEA) are a group of modern, perspective materials that have been intensively developed in recent years due to their superior properties and potential applications in many fields. The complexity of their chemical composition and the further interactions of main elements significantly inhibit the prediction of phases that may form during material processing. Thus, at the design stage of HEA fabrication, the molecular orbitals theory was proposed. In this method, the connection of the average strength of covalent bonding between the alloying elements (Bo parameter) and the average energy level of the d-orbital (parameter Md) enables for a preliminary assessment of the phase structure and the type of lattice for individual components in the formed alloy. The designed TiCoCrFeMn alloy was produced by the powder metallurgy method, preceded by mechanical alloying of the initial elementary powders and at the temperature of 1050 °C for 60 s. An ultra-fine-grained structured alloy was homogenized at 1000 °C for 1000 h. The X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analysis confirmed the correctness of the methodology proposed as the assumed phase structure consisted of the body-centered cubic (BCC) solid solution and the C14 Laves phase was obtained.
An Experimental and Theoretical Determination of Oscillatory Shear-Induced Crystallization Processes in Viscoelastic Photonic Crystal Media
Authors: Finlayson Chris E. , Rosetta Giselle , Baumberg Jeremy J.
Published: September 2021

A study is presented of the oscillatory shear-ordering dynamics of viscoelastic photonic crystal media, using an optical shear cell. The hard-sphere/“sticky”-shell design of these polymeric composite particles produces athermal, quasi-solid rubbery media, with a characteristic viscoelastic ensemble response to applied shear. Monotonic crystallization processes, as directly measured by the photonic stopband transmission, are tracked as a function of strain amplitude, oscillation frequency, and temperature. A complementary generic spatio-temporal model is developed of crystallization due to shear-dependent interlayer viscosity, giving propagating crystalline fronts with increasing applied strain, and a gradual transition from interparticle disorder to order. The introduction of a competing shear-induced flow degradation process, dependent on the global shear rate, gives solutions with both amplitude and frequency dependence. The extracted crystallization timescales show parametric trends which are in good qualitative agreement with experimental observations.
Functional Importance of Surface Texture Parameters
Authors: Pawlus Pawel , Reizer Rafal , Wieczorowski Michal
Published: September 2021

Areal 3D analysis of surface texture gives more opportunities than a study of 2D profiles. Surface topography evaluation, considered as 3D dimensional analysis in micro or nanoscales, plays an important role in many fields of science and life. Among many texture parameters, those connected with height are the most often used. However, there are many other parameters and functions that can provide additional important information regarding functional behaviour of surfaces in different applications. The knowledge about the functional importance of various surface properties is low. This review tries to fill this gap. Surface texture parameters are presented in various groups: height, spatial, hybrid, functional, feature, and others. Based on experiences of the present authors and literature review, the relationships among various surface parameters and functional properties are described. A proposal of a selection of parameters on the basis of their functional significations is provided. Considerations for future challenges are addressed.
Fatigue Analysis of Threaded Components with Cd and Zn-Ni Anticorrosive Coatings
Authors: Marcelino dos Santos Jefferson Rodrigo , Fernandes Martin Ferreira , Velloso Verônica Mara de Oliveira , Voorwald Herman Jacobus Cornelis
Published: September 2021

The influence of the electrodeposition of cadmium and zinc-nickel and the stress concentration effect on the fatigue behavior of AISI 4140 steel threaded components were studied. Axial fatigue tests at room temperature with a stress ratio of R = 0.1 were performed using standard and threaded specimens with and without nut interface under base material, cadmium, and zinc-nickel-coated conditions. Finite element analysis (FEA) was used, considering both elastic and elastoplastic models, to quantify the stress distribution and strain for threaded specimens with and without a nut interface. The numeric results were correlated to the experimental fatigue data of threaded components with and without the nut interface, to allow the oil & gas companies to extrapolate the results for different thread dimensions, since the experimental tests are not feasible to be performed for all thread interfaces. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the fracture surfaces. The stress concentration factor had a greater influence on the fatigue performance of threaded components than the effect of the Cd and Zn-Ni coatings. The fatigue life of studs reduced by about 58% with the nut/stud interface, compared to threaded components without nuts. The elastoplastic FEA results showed that studs with a stud/nut interface had higher stress values than the threaded specimens without a nut interface. The FEA results showed that the cracks nucleated at the regions with higher strain, absorbed energy, and stress concentration. The substitution of Cd for a Zn-Ni coating was feasible regarding the fatigue strength for threaded and smooth components.
Experimental Investigations and Pareto Optimization of Fiber Laser Cutting Process of Ti6Al4V
Authors: Vora Jay , Chaudhari Rakesh , Patel Chintan , Pimenov Danil Yurievich , Patel Vivek K. , Giasin Khaled , Sharma Shubham
Published: September 2021

In the current study, laser cutting of Ti6Al4V was accomplished using Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array (OA). Laser power, cutting speed, and gas pressure were selected as input process parameters, whereas surface roughness (SR), kerf width, dross height, and material removal rate (MRR) were considered as output variables. The effects of input variables were analyzed through the analysis of variance (ANOVA), main effect plots, residual plots, and contour plots. A heat transfer search algorithm was used to optimize the parameters for the single objective function including higher MRR, minimum SR, minimum dross, and minimum kerf. A multi-objective heat transfer search algorithm was used to create non-dominant optimal Pareto points, giving unique optimal solutions with the corresponding input parameters. For better understanding and ease of selection of input parameters in industry and by scientists, a Pareto graph (2D and 3D graph) is generated from the Pareto points.
Matrix-Free High-Resolution Atmospheric-Pressure SALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging of Biological Samples Using Nanostructured DIUTHAME Membranes
Authors: Müller Max A. , Bhandari Dhaka R. , Spengler Bernhard
Published: September 2021

Applications of mass spectrometry imaging (MSI), especially matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) in the life sciences are becoming increasingly focused on single cell analysis. With the latest instrumental developments, pixel sizes in the micrometer range can be obtained, leading to challenges in matrix application, where imperfections or inhomogeneities in the matrix layer can lead to misinterpretation of MS images. Thereby, the application of premanufactured, homogeneous ionization-assisting devices is a promising approach. Tissue sections were investigated using a matrix-free imaging technique (Desorption Ionization Using Through-Hole Alumina Membrane, DIUTHAME) based on premanufactured nanostructured membranes to be deposited on top of a tissue section, in comparison to the spray-coating of an organic matrix in a MALDI MSI approach. Atmospheric pressure MALDI MSI ion sources were coupled to orbital trapping mass spectrometers. MS signals obtained by the different ionization techniques were annotated using accurate-mass-based database research. Compared to MALDI MSI, DIUTHAME MS images captivated with higher signal homogeneities, higher contrast and reduced background signals, while signal intensities were reduced by about one order of magnitude, independent of analyte class. DIUTHAME membranes, being applicable only on tissue sections thicker than 50 µm, were successfully used for mammal, insect and plant tissue with a high lateral resolution down to 5 µm.
Cold Atmospheric Pressure Microplasma Pipette for Disinfection of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Nam Geunyoung , Kim Muhwan , Jang Yeonsook , Cho Sungbo
Published: September 2021

Microbial infections should be controlled and prevented for successful wound healing and tissue regeneration. Various disinfection methods exist that use antibiotics, ultraviolet (UV), heat, radiation, or chemical disinfectants; however, cold atmospheric pressure plasma has exhibited a unique and effective antibacterial ability that is not affected by antibiotic resistance or pain. This study develops a cold atmospheric pressure microplasma pipette (CAPMP) that outputs an Ar plasma plume through a tube with an inner radius of 180 μm for disinfection in a small area. The CAPMP was evaluated using Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus diluted in liquid media, spread on solid agar, or covered by dressing gauze. An increase in the treatment time of CAPMP resulted in a decrease in the number of colonies of the grown microorganism (colony forming unit) and an increase in the disinfected area for both bacteria. The disinfection ability of CAPMP was observed when the bacteria were covered with dressing gauze and was dependent on the number of gauze layers.
Physiological and Disease Models of Respiratory System Based on Organ-on-a-Chip Technology
Authors: Wang Di , Cong Ye , Deng Quanfeng , Han Xiahe , Zhang Suonan , Zhao Li , Luo Yong , Zhang Xiuli
Published: September 2021

The pathogenesis of respiratory diseases is complex, and its occurrence and development also involve a series of pathological processes. The present research methods are have difficulty simulating the natural developing state of the disease in the body, and the results cannot reflect the real growth state and function in vivo. The development of microfluidic chip technology provides a technical platform for better research on respiratory diseases. The size of its microchannel can be similar to the space for cell growth in vivo. In addition, organ-on-a-chip can achieve long-term co-cultivation of multiple cells and produce precisely controllable fluid shear force, periodically changing mechanical force, and perfusate with varying solute concentration gradient. To sum up, the chip can be used to analyze the specific pathophysiological changes of organs meticulously, and it is widely used in scientific research on respiratory diseases. The focus of this review is to describe and discuss current studies of artificial respiratory systems based on organ-on-a-chip technology and to summarize their applications in the real world.
Fluorescence Anisotropy as a Temperature-Sensing Molecular Probe Using Fluorescein
Authors: Jain Puneet , Aida Takuya , Motosuke Masahiro
Published: September 2021

Fluorescence anisotropy, a technique to study the folding state of proteins or affinity of ligands, is used in this present work as a temperature sensor, to measure the microfluidic temperature field, by adding fluorophore in the liquid. Fluorescein was used as a temperature-sensing probe, while glycerol–aq. ammonia solution was used as a working fluid. Fluorescence anisotropy of fluorescein was measured by varying various parameters. Apart from this, a comparison of fluorescence anisotropy and fluorescence intensity is also performed to demonstrate the validity of anisotropy to be applied in a microfluidic field with non-uniform liquid thickness. Viscosity dependence and temperature dependence on the anisotropy are also clarified; the results indicate an appropriate selection of relation between molecule size and viscosity is important to obtain a large temperature coefficient in anisotropy. Furthermore, a practical calibration procedure of the apparatus constant is proposed. In addition, the potential of temperature imaging is confirmed by the measurement of temperature distribution under focused laser heating.
Optimization of Extraction or Purification Process of Multiple Components from Natural Products: Entropy Weight Method Combined with Plackett–Burman Design and Central Composite Design
Authors: Du Yu , Huang Pengcheng , Jin Weifeng , Li Chang , Yang Jiehong , Wan Haitong , He Yu
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the optimization of the extraction/purification process of multiple components was performed by the entropy weight method (EWM) combined with Plackett–Burman design (PBD) and central composite design (CCD). We took the macroporous resin purification of Astragalus saponins as an example to discuss the practicability of this method. Firstly, the weight of each component was given by EWM and the sum of the product between the componential content and its weight was defined as the comprehensive score, which was taken as the evaluation index. Then, the single factor method was adopted for determining the value range of each factor. PBD was applied for screening the significant factors. Important variables were further optimized by CCD to determine the optimal process parameters. After the combination of EWM, PBD and CCD, the resulting optimal purification conditions were as follows: pH value of 6.0, the extraction solvent concentration of 0.15 g/mL, and the ethanol volume fraction of 75%. Under the optimal conditions, the practical comprehensive score of recoveries of saponins was close to the predicted value (n = 3). Therefore, the present study provided a convenient and efficient method for extraction and purification optimization technology of multiple components from natural products.
Exploring EZH2-Proteasome Dual-Targeting Drug Discovery through a Computational Strategy to Fight Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Estrada Filipe G. A. , Miccoli Silvia , Aniceto Natália , García-Sosa Alfonso T. , Guedes Rita C.
Published: September 2021

Multiple myeloma is an incurable plasma cell neoplastic disease representing about 10–15% of all haematological malignancies diagnosed in developed countries. Proteasome is a key player in multiple myeloma and proteasome inhibitors are the current first-line of treatment. However, these are associated with limited clinical efficacy due to acquired resistance. One of the solutions to overcome this problem is a polypharmacology approach, namely combination therapy and multitargeting drugs. Several polypharmacology avenues are currently being explored. The simultaneous inhibition of EZH2 and Proteasome 20S remains to be investigated, despite the encouraging evidence of therapeutic synergy between the two. Therefore, we sought to bridge this gap by proposing a holistic in silico strategy to find new dual-target inhibitors. First, we assessed the characteristics of both pockets and compared the chemical space of EZH2 and Proteasome 20S inhibitors, to establish the feasibility of dual targeting. This was followed by molecular docking calculations performed on EZH2 and Proteasome 20S inhibitors from ChEMBL 25, from which we derived a predictive model to propose new EZH2 inhibitors among Proteasome 20S compounds, and vice versa, which yielded two dual-inhibitor hits. Complementarily, we built a machine learning QSAR model for each target but realised their application to our data is very limited as each dataset occupies a different region of chemical space. We finally proceeded with molecular dynamics simulations of the two docking hits against the two targets. Overall, we concluded that one of the hit compounds is particularly promising as a dual-inhibitor candidate exhibiting extensive hydrogen bonding with both targets. Furthermore, this work serves as a framework for how to rationally approach a dual-targeting drug discovery project, from the selection of the targets to the prediction of new hit compounds.
Phytochemical Analysis of Phenolics, Sterols, and Terpenes in Colored Wheat Grains by Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Razgonova Mayya P. , Zakharenko Alexander M. , Gordeeva Elena I. , Shoeva Olesya Yu. , Antonova Elena V. , Pikula Konstantin S. , Koval Liudmila A. , Khlestkina Elena K. , Golokhvast Kirill S.
Published: September 2021

The colored grain of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) contains a large number of polyphenolic compounds that are biologically active ingredients. The purpose of this work was a comparative metabolomic study of extracts from anthocyaninless (control), blue, and deep purple (referred to here as black) grains of seven genetically related wheat lines developed for the grain anthocyanin pigmentation trait. To identify target analytes in ethanol extracts, high-performance liquid chromatography was used in combination with Bruker Daltonics ion trap mass spectrometry. The results showed the presence of 125 biologically active compounds of a phenolic (85) and nonphenolic (40) nature in the grains of T. aestivum (seven lines). Among them, a number of phenolic compounds affiliated with anthocyanins, coumarins, dihydrochalcones, flavan-3-ols, flavanone, flavones, flavonols, hydroxybenzoic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, isoflavone, lignans, other phenolic acids, stilbenes, and nonphenolic compounds affiliated with alkaloids, carboxylic acids, carotenoids, diterpenoids, essential amino acids, triterpenoids, sterols, nonessential amino acids, phytohormones, purines, and thromboxane receptor antagonists were found in T. aestivum grains for the first time. A comparative analysis of the diversity of the compounds revealed that the lines do not differ from each other in the proportion of phenolic (53.3% to 70.3% of the total number of identified compounds) and nonphenolic compounds (46.7% to 29.7%), but diversity of the compounds was significantly lower in grains of the control line. Even though the lines are genetically closely related and possess similar chemical profiles, some line-specific individual compounds were identified that constitute unique chemical fingerprints and allow to distinguish each line from the six others. Finally, the influence of the genotype on the chemical profiles of the wheat grains is discussed.
A Review on Preparation of Betulinic Acid and Its Biological Activities
Authors: Lou Hanghang , Li Hao , Zhang Shengliang , Lu Hongyun , Chen Qihe
Published: September 2021

Betulinic acid, a pentacyclic triterpene, is distributed in a variety of plants, such as birch, eucalyptus and plane trees. It shows a wide spectrum of biological and pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antidiabetic, antimalarial, anti-HIV and antitumor effects. Among them, the antitumor activity of betulinic acid has been extensively studied. However, obtaining betulinic acid from natural resources can no longer meet the needs of medicine and nutrition, so methods such as chemical synthesis and microbial biotransformation have also been used to prepare betulinic acid. At the same time, with the development of synthetic biology and genetic engineering, and the elucidation of the biosynthetic pathways of terpenoid, the biosynthesis of betulinic acid has also been extensively researched. This article reviews the preparation of betulinic acid and its pharmacological activities, in order to provide a reference for the research and utilization of betulinic acid.
Novel Photonic Bio-Chip Sensor Based on Strained Graphene Sheets for Blood Cell Sorting
Authors: Ghasemi Fatemeh , Razi Sepehr
Published: September 2021

A photonic biochip with a tunable response in the visible range is suggested for blood cell sorting applications. Multi-layers of ZnS and Ge slabs (as the main building blocks), hosting a cell in which bio-sample could be injected, are considered as the core of the sensor. In order to increase the sensitivity of the chip, the bio-cell is capsulated inside air slabs, and its walls are coated with graphene sheets. Paying special attention to white and red blood components, the optimum values for structural parameters are extracted first. Tunability of the sensor detectivity is then explored by finding the role of the probe light incident angle, as well as its polarization. The strain of the graphene layer and angle in which it is applied are also suggested to further improve the performance tunability. Results reflect that the biochip can effectively identify selected components through their induced different optical features, besides of the different figure of merit and sensitivity amounts that are recorded for them by the sensor.
Comparative Analysis of the Antitumor Activity of Cis- and Trans-Resveratrol in Human Cancer Cells with Different p53 Status
Authors: Leischner Christian , Burkard Markus , Michel Anja , Berchtold Susanne , Niessner Heike , Marongiu Luigi , Busch Christian , Frank Jan , Lauer Ulrich M. , Venturelli Sascha
Published: September 2021

Resveratrol, a natural plant phytoalexin, is produced in response to fungal infection or− UV irradiation. It exists as an isomeric pair with cis- and trans-conformation. Whereas multiple physiological effects of the trans-form, including a pronounced anti-tumoral activity, are nowadays elucidated, much less knowledge exists concerning the cis-isomer. In our work, we analyzed the antiproliferative and cytotoxic properties of cis-resveratrol in four different human tumor entities in direct comparison to trans-resveratrol. We used human cell lines as tumor models for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; HepG2, Hep3B), colon carcinoma (HCT-116, HCT-116/p53(−/−)), pancreatic carcinoma (Capan-2, MiaPaCa-2), and renal cell carcinoma (A498, SN12C). Increased cytotoxicity in all investigated tumor cells was observed for the trans-isomer. To verify possible effects of the tumor suppressor p53 on resveratrol-induced cell death, we used wild type and p53-deleted or -mutated cell lines for every tested tumor entity. Applying viability and cytotoxicity assays, we demonstrated a differential, dose-dependent sensitivity towards cis- or trans-resveratrol among the respective tumor types.
A Comprehensive Study of CO2 Absorption and Desorption by Choline-Chloride/Levulinic-Acid-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Aboshatta Mohaned , Magueijo Vitor
Published: September 2021

Amine absorption (or amine scrubbing) is currently the most established method for CO2 capture; however, it has environmental shortcomings and is energy-intensive. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are an interesting alternative to conventional amines. Due to their biodegradability, lower toxicity and lower prices, DESs are considered to be “more benign” absorbents for CO2 capture than ionic liquids. In this work, the CO2 absorption capacity of choline-chloride/levulinic-acid-based (ChCl:LvAc) DESs was measured at different temperatures, pressures and stirring speeds using a vapour–liquid equilibrium rig. DES regeneration was performed using a heat treatment method. The DES compositions studied had ChCl:LvAc molar ratios of 1:2 and 1:3 and water contents of 0, 2.5 and 5 mol%. The experimental results showed that the CO2 absorption capacity of the ChCl:LvAc DESs is strongly affected by the operating pressure and stirring speed, moderately affected by the temperature and minimally affected by the hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA):hydrogen bond donator (HBD) molar ratio as well as water content. Thermodynamic properties for CO2 absorption were calculated from the experimental data. The regeneration of the DESs was performed at different temperatures, with the optimal regeneration temperature estimated to be 80 °C. The DESs exhibited good recyclability and moderate CO2/N2 selectivity.
Glycosaminoglycan-Based Cryogels as Scaffolds for Cell Cultivation and Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Wartenberg Annika , Weisser Jürgen , Schnabelrauch Matthias
Published: September 2021

Cryogels are a class of macroporous, interconnective hydrogels polymerized at sub-zero temperatures forming mechanically robust, elastic networks. In this review, latest advances of cryogels containing mainly glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) or composites of GAGs and other natural or synthetic polymers are presented. Cryogels produced in this way correspond to the native extracellular matrix (ECM) in terms of both composition and molecular structure. Due to their specific structural feature and in addition to an excellent biocompatibility, GAG-based cryogels have several advantages over traditional GAG-hydrogels. This includes macroporous, interconnective pore structure, robust, elastic, and shape-memory-like mechanical behavior, as well as injectability for many GAG-based cryogels. After addressing the cryogelation process, the fabrication of GAG-based cryogels and known principles of GAG monomer crosslinking are discussed. Finally, an overview of specific GAG-based cryogels in biomedicine, mainly as polymeric scaffold material in tissue regeneration and tissue engineering-related controlled release of bioactive molecules and cells, is provided.
Cinnamomum cassia and Syzygium aromaticum Essential Oils Reduce the Colonization of Salmonella Typhimurium in an In Vivo Infection Model Using Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Lang Marie , Montjarret Aude , Duteil Emmanuel , Bedoux Gilles
Published: September 2021

The regulation of intestinal colonization in livestock by means of non-bactericidal additives is an important management lever for zoonotic bacteria such as Salmonella spp. Caenorhabditis elegans is proposed here as a model for the evaluation of five essential oils (EOs) as anti-colonization products against Salmonella Typhimurium. An evaluation of the toxicity of EOs for C. elegans showed LD50 values ranging from 74.5 ± 9.6 µg/mL for Cinnamomum cassia (CEO) to 271.6 ± 14.9 µg/mL for Syzygium aromaticum (SyEO). Both EOs significantly inhibited bacterial colonization in the digestive tract of C. elegans with reductions of 0.88 and 0.70 log CFU/nematode at nontoxic concentrations of 50 µg/mL and 150 µg/mL, respectively. With the minimal bactericidal concentrations of CEO and SyEO against S. Typhimurium being 312.5 µg/mL and 625 µg/mL, respectively, an antibacterial effect can be excluded to explain the inhibition of the bacterial load. The anti-colonizing activity of these two EOs could, however, be related to an inhibition of the swimming motility, which was significantly reduced by 23.47% for CEO at 50 µg/mL and 19.56% for SyEO at 150 µg/mL. This study shows the potential of C. elegans as a predictive in vivo model of anti-colonizing activities that is suitable for the evaluation of essential oils.
Novel CBG Derivatives Can Reduce Inflammation, Pain and Obesity
Authors: Kogan Natalya M. , Lavi Yarden , Topping Louise M. , Williams Richard. O. , McCann Fiona E. , Yekhtin Zhanna , Feldmann Marc , Gallily Ruth , Mechoulam Raphael
Published: September 2021

Interest in CBG (cannabigerol) has been growing in the past few years, due to its anti-inflammatory properties and other therapeutic benefits. Here we report the synthesis of three new CBG derivatives (HUM-223, HUM-233 and HUM-234) and show them to possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. In addition, unlike CBG, HUM-234 also prevents obesity in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). The metabolic state of the treated mice on HFD is significantly better than that of vehicle-treated mice, and their liver slices show significantly less steatosis than untreated HFD or CBG-treated ones from HFD mice. We believe that HUM-223, HUM-233 and HUM-234 have the potential for development as novel drug candidates for the treatment of inflammatory conditions, and in the case of HUM-234, potentially for obesity where there is a huge unmet need.
In-Vivo Analysis and Model-Based Prediction of Tensides’ Influence on Drug Absorption
Authors: Vitková Zuzana , Tárník Marián , Pavlovičová Jarmila , Murgaš Ján , Babinec Andrej , Vitko Anton
Published: September 2021

Depending on their concentrations the surface-active substances, tensides (surfactants) can positively or negatively influence the drug absorption, which is widely used in the design of the dosage forms with controlled release. A problem is that the (in-vivo) rate of absorption cannot be directly measured and for that reason, it is frequently substituted by evaluation of the (in-vitro) dissolution. On other hand, a suitably designed pharmacokinetic model can directly predict virtually all pharmacokinetic quantities including both the rate of absorption and fraction of the dose reaching the blood circulation. The paper presents a new approach to the analysis of the rate of drug absorption and shows its superiority over traditional in-vivo approaches. Both the in-vivo analysis and model-based prediction of the tenside (monolaurin of sucrose) influence on the rate of absorption of the drug (sulfathiazole) after instantaneous per-oral administration to rats are discussed. It was found that 0.001% solution of tenside can increase the rate of absorption by cca 50% and a two-fold increase in absolute bioavailability can be reached. Attention is also devoted to the formal requirements laid on the model’s structure and its identifiability. The systematic design, substantiation and validation of a parsimonious predictive model that confirms in-vivo results are presented. The match between in-vivo observations and model-based predictions is demonstrated. The frequently overlooked metaphysics lying behind the compartmental modelling is briefly explained.
Convenient Synthesis of Pyrazolo[4′,3′:5,6]pyrano[4,3-c][1,2]oxazoles via Intramolecular Nitrile Oxide Cycloaddition
Authors: Milišiūnaitė Vaida , Plytninkienė Elena , Bakšienė Roberta , Bieliauskas Aurimas , Krikštolaitytė Sonata , Račkauskienė Greta , Arbačiauskienė Eglė , Šačkus Algirdas
Published: September 2021

A simple and efficient synthetic route to the novel 3a,4-dihydro-3H,7H- and 4H,7H-pyrazolo[4′,3′:5,6]pyrano[4,3-c][1,2]oxazole ring systems from 3-(prop-2-en-1-yloxy)- or 3-(prop-2-yn-1-yloxy)-1H-pyrazole-4-carbaldehyde oximes has been developed by employing the intramolecular nitrile oxide cycloaddition (INOC) reaction as the key step. The configuration of intermediate aldoximes was unambiguously determined using NOESY experimental data and comparison of the magnitudes of 1JCH coupling constants of the iminyl moiety, which were greater by approximately 13 Hz for the predominant syn isomer. The structures of the obtained heterocyclic products were confirmed by detailed 1H, 13C and 15N NMR spectroscopic experiments and HRMS measurements.
Miktoarm Star Copolymers Prepared by Transformation from Enhanced Spin Capturing Polymerization to Nitroxide-Mediated Polymerization (ESCP-Ŧ-NMP) toward Nanomaterials
Authors: Lin Tzu-Yao , Tu Cheng-Wei , Aimi Junko , Huang Yu-Wen , Jamnongkan Tongsai , Hsueh Han-Yu , Lin Kun-Yi Andrew , Huang Chih-Feng
Published: September 2021

Reversible-deactivation radical polymerization (RDRP) serves as a powerful tool nowadays for the preparations of unique linear and non-linear macromolecules. In this study, enhanced spin capturing polymerizations (ESCPs) of styrene (St) and tert-butyl acrylate (tBA) monomers were, respectively, conducted in the presence of difunctional (1Z,1′Z)-1,1′-(1,4-phenylene) bis (N-tert-butylmethanimine oxide) (PBBN) nitrone. Four-arm (PSt)4 and (PtBA)4 star macroinitiators (MIs) can be afforded. By correspondingly switching the second monomer (i.e., tBA and St), miktoarm star copolymers (μ-stars) of (PSt)2-μ-(PtBA-b-PSt)2 and (PtBA)2-μ-(PSt-b-PtBA)2) were thus obtained. We further conducted hydrolysis of the PtBA segments to PAA (i.e., poly(acrylic acid)) in μ-stars to afford amphiphilic μ-stars of (PSt)2-μ-(PAA-b-PSt)2 and (PAA)2-μ-(PSt-b-PAA)2. We investigated each polymerization step and characterized the obtained two sets of “sequence-isomeric” μ-stars by FT-IR, 1H NMR, differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Interestingly, we identified their physical property differences in the case of amphiphilic μ-stars by water contact angle (WCA) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements. We thus proposed two microstructures caused by the difference of polymer chain sequences. Through this polymerization transformation (Ŧ) approach (i.e., ESCP-Ŧ-NMP), we demonstrated an interesting and facile strategy for the preparations of μ-stars with adjustable/switchable interior and exterior polymer structures toward the preparations of various nanomaterials.
Synergistic Antifungal Activity of Graphene Oxide and Fungicides against Fusarium Head Blight In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Wang Xiuping , Peng Fei , Cheng Caihong , Chen Lina , Shi Xuejuan , Gao Xiaoduo , Li Jun
Published: September 2021

Plant pathogens constantly develop resistance to antimicrobial agents, and this poses great challenges to plant protection. Therefore, there is a pressing need to search for new antimicrobials. The combined use of antimicrobial agents with different antifungal mechanisms has been recognized as a promising approach to manage plant diseases. Graphene oxide (GO) is a newly emerging and highly promising antimicrobial agent against various plant pathogens in agricultural science. In this study, the inhibitory activity of GO combined with fungicides (Mancozeb, Cyproconazol and Difenoconazole) against Fusarium graminearum was investigated in vivo and in vitro. The results revealed that the combination of GO and fungicides has significant synergistic inhibitory effects on the mycelial growth, mycelial biomass and spore germination of F. graminearum relative to single fungicides. The magnitude of synergy was found to depend on the ratio of GO and fungicide in the composite. In field tests, GO–fungicides could significantly reduce the disease incidence and disease severity, exhibiting a significantly improved control efficacy on F. graminearum. The strong synergistic activity of GO with existing fungicides demonstrates the great application potential of GO in pest management.
Giant Second Harmonic Generation Enhancement by Ag Nanoparticles Compactly Distributed on Hexagonal Arrangements
Authors: Gómez-Tornero Alejandro , Bausá Luisa E. , Ramírez Mariola O.
Published: September 2021

The association of plasmonic nanostructures with nonlinear dielectric systems has been shown to provide useful platforms for boosting frequency conversion processes at metal-dielectric interfaces. Here, we report on an efficient route for engineering light–matter interaction processes in hybrid plasmonic-χ(2) dielectric systems to enhance second harmonic generation (SHG) processes confined in small spatial regions. By means of ferroelectric lithography, we have fabricated scalable micrometric arrangements of interacting silver nanoparticles compactly distributed on hexagonal regions. The fabricated polygonal microstructures support both localized and extended plasmonic modes, providing large spatial regions of field enhancement at the optical frequencies involved in the SHG process. We experimentally demonstrate that the resonant excitation of the plasmonic modes supported by the Ag nanoparticle-filled hexagons in the near infrared region produces an extraordinary 104-fold enhancement of the blue second harmonic intensity generated in the surface of a LiNbO3 crystal. The results open new perspectives for the design of efficient hybrid plasmonic frequency converters in miniaturized devices.
PEG Coated Fe3O4/RGO Nano-Cube-Like Structures for Cancer Therapy via Magnetic Hyperthermia
Authors: Alkhayal Anoud , Fathima Arshia , Alhasan Ali H. , Alsharaeh Edreese H.
Published: September 2021

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) have high saturation magnetization and are promising candidates for hyperthermia. They may act as magnetic heating agents when subjected to magnetic field in nano-based hyperthermia. In this work, cube-like Fe3O4 nanoparticles (labelled as cubic SPIONs) with reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposites were prepared by a microwave hydrothermal method. The shape and size of magnetic nanoparticles were controlled by varying synthesis parameters, including reaction time, pressure and microwave power. This study successfully synthesized cubic SPIONs nanocomposites with an average particle size between 24–34 nm. Poly-(ethylene) glycol (PEG) was used as a coating material on SPIONs to enhance biocompatibility. The RGO sheets provided a high surface area-to-volume ratio for SPIONs to be dispersed on their surface, and hence, they prevented aggregation of the SPIONs in the nanocomposites. Magnetically induced heating studies on the optimized nanocomposite (Fe3O4/RGO/PEG) demonstrated heating capabilities for magnetic hyperthermia application with a promising specific absorption rate (SAR) value of 58.33 W/g in acidic solution. Cytotoxicity tests were also performed to ensure low nanoparticle toxicity before incorporation into the human body. The results of the standard assay for the toxicity determination of the nanocomposites revealed over 70% cell survival after 48 h, suggesting the feasibility of using the synthesized nanocomposites for magnetic hyperthermia.
Burden of Malnutrition among Children and Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy in Arabic-Speaking Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mushta Sami , Jahan Israt , Sultana Risad , McIntyre Sarah , Badahdah Al-Mamoon , Almasri Nihad , King Catherine , Rashid Harunor , Badawi Nadia , Khandaker Gulam
Published: September 2021

Background: We aimed to estimate the burden and underlying risk factors of malnutrition among children and adolescents with cerebral palsy in Arabic-speaking countries. Methods: OVID Medline, OVID Embase, CINAHL via EBSCO, Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS databases were searched up to 3 July 2021. Publications were reviewed to identify relevant papers following pre-defined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Two reviewers independently assessed the studies for inclusion. Data extraction was independently completed by two reviewers. Descriptive and pooled analysis has been reported. Results: From a total of 79 records screened, nine full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, of which seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Study characteristics, anthropometric measurements used, and nutritional outcome reported varied between the studies. The included studies contained data of total 400 participants aged 1–18 years. Overall, (mean: 71.46%, 95% confidence interval: 55.52–85.04) of children with cerebral palsy had at least one form of malnutrition. Severe gross motor function limitation, feeding difficulties, cognitive impairment and inadequate energy intake were the commonly reported underlying risk factors for malnutrition among children with cerebral palsy. Conclusions: The burden of malnutrition is high among children with cerebral palsy in Arabic-speaking countries. More research is needed for better understanding of this public health issue in these countries.