bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biotechnology and In Vitro Culture as an Alternative System for Secondary Metabolite Production
Authors: Mohaddab Marouane , El Goumi Younes , Gallo Monica , Montesano Domenico , Zengin Gokhan , Bouyahya Abdelhakim , Fakiri Malika
Published: November 2022

Medicinal plants are rich sources of bioactive compounds widely used as medicaments, food additives, perfumes, and agrochemicals. These secondary compounds are produced under stress conditions to carry out physiological tasks in plants. Secondary metabolites have a complex chemical structure with pharmacological properties. The widespread use of these metabolites in a lot of industrial sectors has raised the need to increase the production of secondary metabolites. Biotechnological methods of cell culture allow the conservation of plants, as well as the improvement of metabolite biosynthesis and the possibility to modify the synthesis pathways. The objective of this review is to outline the applications of different in vitro culture systems with previously reported relevant examples for the optimal production of plant-derived secondary metabolites.
Effect of Hanseniaspora uvarum–Saccharomyces cerevisiae Mixed Fermentation on Aroma Characteristics of Rosa roxburghii Tratt, Blueberry, and Plum Wines
Authors: Huang Mingzheng , Liu Xiaozhu , Li Xin , Sheng Xiaofang , Li Tingting , Tang Weiyuan , Yu Zhihai , Wang Yuanmeng
Published: November 2022

Hanseniaspora uvarum, a non-Saccharomyces cerevisiae species, has a crucial effect on the aroma characteristics of fruit wines, thus, attracting significant research interest in recent years. In this study, H. uvarum–Saccharomyces cerevisiae mixed fermentation was used to ferment Rosa roxburghii Tratt, blueberry fruit wine, and plum fruit wines using either a co-inoculated or a sequentially inoculated approach. The three fruit wines’ volatile aroma characteristics were analyzed by headspace–solid-phase microextraction–gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS–SPME–GC–MS). The results showed that the mixed inoculation of H. uvarum and S. cerevisiae reduced the alcoholic content of Kongxinli fruit wine. Moreover, H. uvarum–S. cerevisiae fermented Rosa roxburghii Tratt, blueberry, and plum fruit wines and further enriched their flavor compounds. The overall flavor characteristics of sequentially inoculated fruit wines differed significantly from those fermented with S. cerevisiae alone, although several similarities were also observed. Sequential inoculation of H. uvarum and S. cerevisiae positively affected the mellowness of the wine and achieved a better harmony of the overall wine flavors. Therefore, H. uvarum–Saccharomyces cerevisiae mixed fermentation can improve the complexity of the wines’ aromatic composition and empower them with a unique identity. In particular, H. uvarum–Saccharomyces cerevisiae blueberry wine produced by mixed fermentation had the widest variety and content of aroma compounds among the fermented wines. Therefore, H. uvarum–Saccharomyces cerevisiae mixed-fermentation inoculation in the three fermented fruit wines significantly increased the aroma compound variety and content, thus, enriching their aroma richness and complexity. This study is the first comparative evaluation of the aroma characteristics of different fruit wines fermented with a mixed inoculation of H. uvarum and S. cerevisiae and provides a preliminary guide for these fruit wines produced with non-Saccharomyces yeast.
Deep Eutectic Solvent-Mediated Electrocatalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Zhang Chenyun , Fu Yongqi , Gao Wei , Bai Te , Cao Tianyi , Jin Jianjiao , Xin Bingwei
Published: November 2022

As green, safe, and cheap solvents, deep eutectic solvents (DESs) provide tremendous opportunities to open up attractive perspectives for electrocatalysis. In this review, the achievement of DESs in the preparation of catalysts for electrolytic water splitting is described in detail according to their roles combined with our own work. DESs are generally employed as green media, templates, and electrolytes. A large number of hydrogen bonds in DESs result in supramolecular structures which have the ability to shape the morphologies of nanomaterials and then tune their performance. DESs can also serve as reactive reagents of metal electrocatalysts through directly participating in synthesis. Compared with conventional heteroatom sources, they have the advantages of high safety and designability. The “all-in-one” transformation strategy is expected to realize 100% atomic transformation of reactants. The aim of this review is to offer readers a deeper understanding on preparing DES-mediated electrocatalysts with higher performance for water splitting.
Aggregation-Induced Intermolecular Charge Transfer Emission for Solution-Processable Bipolar Host Material via Adjusting the Length of Alkyl Chain
Authors: Jiang Wei , Zhao Guimin , Tian Wenwen , Sun Yueming
Published: November 2022

Molecules with donor–spacer–acceptor configuration have been developed rapidly given their peculiar properties. How to utilize intermolecular interactions and charge transfers for solution-processed organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) greatly relies on molecular design strategy. Herein, soluble luminophores with D-spacer-A motif were constructed via shortening the alkyl chain from nonane to propane, where the alkyl chain was utilized as a spatial linker between the donor and acceptor. The alkyl chain blocks the molecular conjugation and induces the existence of aggregation-induced intermolecular CT emission, as well as the improved solubility and morphology in a solid-state film. In addition, the length of the alkyl chain affects the glass transition temperature, carrier transport and balance properties. The mCP-3C-TRZ with nonane as the spacer shows better thermal stability and bipolar carrier transport ability, so the corresponding solution-processable phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes exhibit superior external quantum efficiency of 9.8% when using mCP-3C-TRZ as a host material. This work offers a promising strategy to establish a bipolar host via utilizing intermolecular charge transfer process in an aggregated state.
Effect of Salt Addition and Fermentation Time on Phenolics, Microbial Dynamics, Volatile Organic Compounds, and Sensory Properties of the PDO Table Olives of Gaeta (Italy)
Authors: Sacchi Raffaele , Corrado Giandomenico , Basile Boris , Mandarello Daniele , Ambrosino Maria Luisa , Paduano Antonello , Savarese Maria , Caporaso Nicola , Aponte Maria , Genovese Alessandro
Published: November 2022

‘Oliva di Gaeta’ is almost certainly the most important and well-known PDO denomination for table olives in Italy. Their production is based on a specific two-stage trade preparation called the ‘Itrana’ method. In this work, we investigated how variations in the duration of the initial water fermentation (i.e., 15 and 30 days) and the salt concentration (i.e., 6% and 8% NaCl) influence the chemical features, microbial dynamics, polyphenols, volatile organic compounds, and sensory features of ‘Oliva di Gaeta’. The time of the addition of salt did not affect the final concentration in the brine, but a longer initial water fermentation (before salt addition) led to lower pH values. The bacterial count constantly increased until the salt addition (i.e., either 15 or 30 days), while the yeast population peaked on day 30. Generally, the two different salt concentrations did not affect the count of microorganisms at the end of fermentation, with the only exception being a higher lactic acid bacteria count for the treatment with 6% salt added at 30 days. At commercial maturity, the crucial bitter tastant oleuropein was not completely removed from the drupes, and differences in salt concentration and the length of the first-stage water fermentation did not influence its content at the end of olive curing. Richer volatile profiles of olives were detected with higher-salt treatments, while the combination of low salt and early saline treatment provided a more distinct profile. Longer initial water fermentation caused a small increase in some phenolic compounds (e.g., iso-verbascoside, verbascoside, and hydroxytyrosol-glucoside). A panel test indicated that salt application at 30 days resulted in a more “Sour” and “Bitter” taste, irrespective of the salt concentration. The low salt concentration coupled with the late saline treatment resulted in more “Fruity” notes, probably due to the higher production of esters by lactobacilli. The slightly bitter perception of the olives was consistent with the partial removal of oleuropein. Our work revealed the characteristics of the ‘Itrana’ method and that the variation in salt concentration and its time of application changes parameters ranging from the microbial dynamics to the sensory profile. Specifically, our data indicate that 6% NaCl coupled with a longer initial water fermentation is the most different condition: it is less effective in blocking microbial growth but, at the same time, is more potent in altering the nutritional (e.g., polyphenols) and sensorial qualities (e.g., bitterness and fruitiness) of ‘Oliva di Gaeta’.
Integrative Analysis of Proteomics and Metabolism Reveals the Potential Roles of Arachidonic Acid Metabolism in Hypoxia Response in Mouse Spleen
Authors: Guo Yujing , Yong Sheng , Xu Yuzhen , Hu Ying , Li Jidong , Long Qifu , Wang Xiaojun , Gu Cunlin , Miao Zengqiang
Published: November 2022

High altitude hypoxia stress is the key cause of high-altitude pulmonary edema and spleen contraction. The molecular mechanism of immune response of various tissue systems to hypoxia stress remains lacking. In this study, we applied proteomics combined with metabolomics to explore the key molecular profilings involved in high altitude hypoxia response in the spleen of mice. The results showed that 166 proteins were significantly up-regulated, and only 39 proteins were down-regulated. Bioinformatics analysis showed that mineral absorption, neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction, arachidonic acid metabolism, IL-17 signaling pathway and NOD-like preceptor signaling pathway were significantly enriched in the list of 166 upregulated differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Among these metabolic pathways, the former three pathways were co-identified in KEGG terms from LC-MS/MS based metabolic analysis. We further found that both arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase and hematopoietic prostaglandin D synthase were upregulated by around 30% and 80% for their protein levels and mRNA levels, respectively. Most downstream metabolites were upregulated accordingly, such as prostaglandin A2 and D2. This study provides important evidence that arachidonic acid metabolism potentially promotes spleen hypoxia response through a combined analysis of proteomics and metabolism, which could bring new insights for the spleen targeted rational design upon arachidonic acid metabolism of new therapies.
Biobased Kapok Fiber Nano-Structure for Energy and Environment Application: A Critical Review
Authors: Zerga Abdelmoumin Yahia , Tahir Muhammad
Published: November 2022

The increasing degradation of fossil fuels has motivated the globe to turn to green energy solutions such as biofuel in order to minimize the entire reliance on fossil fuels. Green renewable resources have grown in popularity in recent years as a result of the advancement of environmental technology solutions. Kapok fiber is a sort of cellulosic fiber derived from kapok tree seeds (Ceiba pentandra). Kapok Fiber, as a bio-template, offers the best alternatives to provide clean and renewable energy sources. The unique structure, good conductivity, and excellent physical properties exhibited by kapok fiber nominate it as a highly favored cocatalyst for deriving solar energy processes. This review will explore the role and recent developments of KF in energy production, including hydrogen and CO2 reduction. Moreover, this work summarized the potential of kapok fiber in environmental applications, including adsorption and degradation. The future contribution and concerns are highlighted in order to provide perspective on the future advancement of kapok fiber.
Antitumor Activity and Mechanism of Action of the Antimicrobial Peptide AMP-17 on Human Leukemia K562 Cells
Authors: Tian Zhuqing , Yang Longbing , Huang Mingjiao , Sun Chaoqin , Chen Mingming , Zhao Wenjing , Peng Jian , Guo Guo
Published: November 2022

Cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases in the world. Hence, there is an urgent need to search for novel drugs with antitumor activity against cancer cells. AMP-17, a natural antimicrobial peptide derived from Musca domestica, has antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and fungi. However, its antitumor activity and potential mechanism of action in cancer cells remain unclear. In this study, we focused on evaluating the in vitro antitumor activity and mechanism of AMP-17 on leukemic K562 cells. The results showed that AMP-17 exhibited anti-proliferative activity on K562 cells with an IC50 value of 58.91 ± 3.57 μg/mL. The membrane integrity of K562 was disrupted and membrane permeability was increased after AMP-17 action. Further observation using SEM and TEM images showed that the cell structure of AMP-17-treated cells was disrupted, with depressions and pore-like breaks on the cell surface, and vacuolated vesicles in the cytoplasm. Furthermore, further mechanistic studies indicated that AMP-17 induced excessive production of reactive oxygen species and calcium ions release in K562 cells, which led to disturbance of mitochondrial membrane potential and blocked ATP synthesis, followed by activation of Caspase-3 to induce apoptosis. In conclusion, these results suggest that the antitumor activity of AMP-17 may be achieved by disrupting cell structure and inducing apoptosis. Therefore, AMP-17 is expected to be a novel potential agent candidate for leukemia treatment.
Novel Phthalazin-1(2H)-One Derivatives Displaying a Dithiocarbamate Moiety as Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Vila Noemí , Besada Pedro , Brea José , Loza María Isabel , Terán Carmen
Published: November 2022

Nowadays, cancer disease seems to be the second most common cause of death worldwide. Molecular hybridization is a drug design strategy that has provided promising results against multifactorial diseases, including cancer. In this work, two series of phthalazinone-dithiocarbamate hybrids were described, compounds 6–8, which display the dithiocarbamate scaffold at N2, and compounds 9, in which this moiety was placed at C4. The proposed compounds were successfully synthesized via the corresponding aminoalkyl phthalazinone derivatives and using a one-pot reaction with carbon disulfide, anhydrous H3PO4, and different benzyl or propargyl bromides. The antiproliferative effects of the titled compounds were explored against three human cancer cell lines (A2780, NCI-H460, and MCF-7). The preliminary results revealed significant differences in activity and selectivity depending on the dithiocarbamate moiety location. Thus, in general terms, compounds 6–8 displayed better activity against the A-2780 and MCF-7 cell lines, while most of the analogues of the 9 group were selective toward the NCI-H460 cell line. Compounds 6e, 8e, 6g, 9a–b, 9d, and 9g with IC50 values less than 10 µM were the most promising. The drug-likeness and toxicity properties of the novel phthalazinone-dithiocarbamate hybrids were predicted using Swiss-ADME and ProTox web servers, respectively.
Current Challenges in Small Molecule Proximity-Inducing Compound Development for Targeted Protein Degradation Using the Ubiquitin Proteasomal System
Authors: Radhakrishnan Sridhar , Hoff Oskar , Muellner Markus K.
Published: November 2022

Bivalent proximity-inducing compounds represent a novel class of small molecule therapeutics with exciting potential and new challenges. The most prominent examples of such compounds are utilized in targeted protein degradation where E3 ligases are hijacked to recruit a substrate protein to the proteasome via ubiquitination. In this review we provide an overview of the current state of E3 ligases used in targeted protein degradation, their respective ligands as well as challenges and opportunities that present themselves with these compounds.
Cycloartocarpin Inhibits Migration through the Suppression of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and FAK/AKT Signaling in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Tungsukruthai Sucharat , Sritularak Boonchoo , Chanvorachote Pithi
Published: November 2022

Lung cancer metastasis is a multifaceted process that accounts for 90% of cancer deaths. According to several studies, the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an essential role in lung cancer metastasis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential pharmacological effect of cycloartocarpin on the suppression of metastasis-related behaviors and EMT. An MTT assay was used to examine cell viability. Cell migration was determined using a wound healing assay. Anchorage-independent cell growth was also performed. Western blot analysis was used to identify the key signaling proteins involved in the regulation of EMT and migration. The results found that non-toxic concentrations of cycloartocarpin (10–20 μM) effectively suppressed cell migration and attenuated anchorage-independent growth in H292, A549, and H460 cells. Interestingly, these effects were consistent with the findings of Western blot analysis, which revealed that the level of phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (p-FAK), phosphorylated ATP-dependent tyrosine kinase (p-AKT), and cell division cycle 42 (Cdc42) were significantly reduced, resulting in the inhibition of the EMT process, as evidenced by decreased N-cadherin, vimentin, and slug expression. Taken together, the results suggest that cycloartocarpin inhibits EMT by suppressing the FAK/AKT signaling pathway, which is involved in Cdc42 attenuation. Our findings demonstrated that cycloartocarpin has antimetastatic potential for further research and development in lung cancer therapy.
Insights on Chemical Crosslinking Strategies for Proteins
Authors: Jayachandran Brindha , Parvin Thansila N , Alam M Mujahid , Chanda Kaushik , MM Balamurali
Published: November 2022

Crosslinking of proteins has gained immense significance in the fabrication of biomaterials for various health care applications. Various novel chemical-based strategies are being continuously developed for intra-/inter-molecular crosslinking of proteins to create a network/matrix with desired mechanical/functional properties without imparting toxicity to the host system. Many materials that are used in biomedical and food packaging industries are prepared by chemical means of crosslinking the proteins, besides the physical or enzymatic means of crosslinking. Such chemical methods utilize the chemical compounds or crosslinkers available from natural sources or synthetically generated with the ability to form covalent/non-covalent bonds with proteins. Such linkages are possible with chemicals like carbodiimides/epoxides, while photo-induced novel chemical crosslinkers are also available. In this review, we have discussed different protein crosslinking strategies under chemical methods, along with the corresponding crosslinking reactions/conditions, material properties and significant applications.
Predictive Analysis of Maxillary Canine Impaction through Sella Turcica Bridging, Ponticulus Posticus Calcification, and Lateral Incisor Anomalies: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Guarnieri Rosanna , Germanò Francesca , Altieri Federica , Cassetta Michele , Grenga Camilla , Padalino Gabriella , Di Giorgio Roberto , Barbato Ersilia
Published: November 2022

Maxillary canine impaction is an increasing dental anomaly and is often related to other dento-skeletal anomalies. The aim of this work is to support the clinician in evaluating the relationship between a displaced maxillary canine and clinical (the features of lateral incisors)/skeletal (ponticulus posticus and sella turcica bridging) anomalies through orthopanoramic radiographs, lateral cephalograms, and plaster casts to identify the parameters that best predict maxillary canine impaction. A retrospective observational study was carried out on the analysis of the medical records, radiographic findings (panoramic radiographs and lateral cephalograms), and plaster casts of 203 orthodontic patients divided into a case group, with at least one impacted maxillary canine, and a control group, without an impaction. A chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the data. A statistically significant association was found between the impaction of the maxillary canine and the female sex, the bridging of the sella turcica, the ponticulus posticus calcification, and the anomaly of the lateral incisor; a logistic regression revealed that these significant variables were found to be positive predictors of impacted maxillary canines, particularly in reference to the impaction in the palatal area. Finding one of these clinical and radiographic elements can represent a predictive sign of the possible impaction of the maxillary canine.
Hyper-FET’s Phase-Transition-Materials Design Guidelines for Ultra-Low Power Applications at 3 nm Technology Node
Authors: Jung Hanggyo , Chang Jeesoo , Yoo Changhyun , Oh Jooyoung , Choi Sumin , Song Juyeong , Jeon Jongwook
Published: November 2022

In this work, a hybrid-phase transition field-effects-transistor (hyper-FET) integrated with phase-transition materials (PTM) and a multi-nanosheet FET (mNS-FET) at the 3 nm technology node were analyzed at the device and circuit level. Through this, a benchmark was performed for presenting device design guidelines and for using ultra-low-power applications. We present an optimization flow considering hyper-FET characteristics at the device and circuit level, and analyze hyper-FET performance according to the phase transition time (TT) and baseline-FET off-leakage current (IOFF) variations of the PTM. As a result of inverter ring oscillator (INV RO) circuit analysis, the optimized hyper-FET increases speed by +8.74% and reduces power consumption by −16.55%, with IOFF = 5 nA of baseline-FET and PTM TT = 50 ps compared to the conventional mNS-FET in the ultra-low-power region. As a result of SRAM circuit analysis, the read static noise margin is improved by 43.9%, and static power is reduced by 58.6% in the near-threshold voltage region when the PTM is connected to the pull-down transistor source terminal of 6T SRAM for high density. This is achieved at 41% read current penalty.
Phase and Structural Thermal Evolution of Bi–Si–O Catalysts Obtained via Laser Ablation
Authors: Shabalina Anastasiia , Golubovskaya Alexandra , Fakhrutdinova Elena , Kulinich Sergei , Vodyankina Olga , Svetlichnyi Valery
Published: November 2022

Laser methods are successfully used to prepare complex functional nanomaterials, especially for biomedicine, optoelectronics, and heterogeneous catalysis. In this paper, we present complex oxide and composite nanomaterials based on Bi and Si produced using laser ablation in liquid followed by subsequent powder annealing. Two synthesis approaches were used, with and without laser post-treatment of mixed (in an atomic ratio of 2:1) laser-generated Bi and Si colloids. A range of methods were used to characterize the samples: UV-Vis diffusion reflection, IR and Raman spectroscopy, synchronous thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, as well as specific surface-area evaluation. We also followed the dynamics of phase transformations, as well as composition, structure and morphology of annealed powders up to 800 °C. When heated, the non-irradiated series of samples proceeded from metallic bismuth, through β-Bi2O3, and resulted in bismuth silicates of various stoichiometries. At the same time, in their laser-irradiated counterparts, the formation of silicates proceeded immediately from the amorphous Bi2SiO5 phase formed after laser treatment of mixed Bi and Si colloids. Finally, we show their ability to decompose persistent organic molecules of Rhodamine B and phenol under irradiation with a soft UV (375 nm) source.
Time-Dependent Flow of Water-Based CoFe2O4-Mn-ZnFe2O4 Nanoparticles over a Shrinking Sheet with Mass Transfer Effect in Porous Media
Authors: Waini Iskandar , Khan Umair , Zaib Aurang , Ishak Anuar , Pop Ioan , Akkurt Nevzat
Published: November 2022

The use of hybrid nanoparticles to increase heat transfer is a favorable area of research, and therefore, numerous scientists, researchers, and scholars have expressed their appreciation for and interest in this field. Determining the dynamic role of nanofluids in the cooling of microscopic electronic gadgets, such as microchips and related devices, is also one of the fundamental tasks. With such interesting and useful applications of hybrid nanofluids in mind, the main objective is to deal with the analysis of the unsteady flow towards a shrinking sheet in a water-based hybrid ferrite nanoparticle in porous media, with heat sink/source effects. Moreover, the impact of these parameters on heat and mass transfers is also reported. Numerical results are obtained using MATLAB software. Non-unique solutions are determined for a certain shrinking strength, in addition to the unsteadiness parameter. The mass transfer and friction factor increase for the first solution due to the hybrid nanoparticles, but the heat transfer rate shows the opposite effect.
Structural and Optical Properties of Graphene Quantum Dots−Polyvinyl Alcohol Composite Thin Film and Its Potential in Plasmonic Sensing of Carbaryl
Authors: Fauzi Nurul Illya Muhamad , Fen Yap Wing , Eddin Faten Bashar Kamal , Daniyal Wan Mohd Ebtisyam Mustaqim Mohd
Published: November 2022

In this study, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite was prepared and then coated on the surface of gold thin film via the spin coating technique. Subsequently, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis) were adopted to understand the structure, surface morphology, and optical properties of the prepared samples. The FT-IR spectral analysis revealed important bands, such as O–H stretching, C=O stretching, C-H stretching, and O=C=O stretching vibrations. The surface roughness of the GQDs-PVA composite thin film was found to be increased after exposure to carbaryl. On the other hand, the optical absorbance of the GQDs-PVA thin film was obtained and further analysis was conducted, revealing a band gap Eg value of 4.090 eV. The sensing potential of the thin film was analyzed using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy. The findings demonstrated that the developed sensor’s lowest detection limit for carbaryl was 0.001 ppb, which was lower than that previously reported, i.e., 0.007 ppb. Moreover, other sensing performance parameters, such as full width at half maximum, detection accuracy, and signal-to-noise ratio, were also investigated to evaluate the sensor’s efficiency.
Complex Phase-Fluctuation Effects Correlated with Granularity in Superconducting NbN Nanofilms
Authors: Sharma Meenakshi , Singh Manju , Rakshit Rajib K. , Singh Surinder P. , Fretto Matteo , De Leo Natascia , Perali Andrea , Pinto Nicola
Published: November 2022

Superconducting nanofilms are tunable systems that can host a 3D–2D dimensional crossover leading to the Berezinskii–Kosterlitz–Thouless (BKT) superconducting transition approaching the 2D regime. Reducing the dimensionality further, from 2D to quasi-1D superconducting nanostructures with disorder, can generate quantum and thermal phase slips (PS) of the order parameter. Both BKT and PS are complex phase-fluctuation phenomena of difficult experiments. We characterized superconducting NbN nanofilms thinner than 15 nm, on different substrates, by temperature-dependent resistivity and current–voltage (I-V) characteristics. Our measurements evidence clear features related to the emergence of BKT transition and PS events. The contemporary observation in the same system of BKT transition and PS events, and their tunable evolution in temperature and thickness was explained as due to the nano-conducting paths forming in a granular NbN system. In one of the investigated samples, we were able to trace and characterize the continuous evolution in temperature from quantum to thermal PS. Our analysis established that the detected complex phase phenomena are strongly related to the interplay between the typical size of the nano-conductive paths and the superconducting coherence length.
Sustainable Removal of BTEX Gas Using Regenerated Metal Containing SiO2
Authors: Beak Soyoung , Ghaffari Yasaman , Kim Suho , Kim Eun Ji , Kim Kwang Soo , Bae Jiyeol
Published: November 2022

In the last decades, the removal of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) has been considered a major environmental crisis. In this study, two novel nanocomposite materials (Fe2O3/SiO2 and Fe2O3-Mn2O3/SiO2) that have regeneration ability by UV irradiation have been fabricated to remove BTEX at ambient temperature. This research revealed that both nanocomposites could remove more than 85% of the BTEX in the first cycle. The adsorption capacities followed the order of ethylbenzene > m-xylene > toluene > benzene as in the molecular weight order. The reusability test using UV irradiation showed that the performance of Fe2O3/SiO2 decreased drastically after the fifth cycle for benzene. On the other hand, when Mn is located in the nanocomposite structure, Fe2O3-Mn2O3/SiO2 could maintain its adsorption performance with more than 80% removal efficiency for all the BTEX for ten consecutive cycles. The difference in the reusability of the two nanocomposites is that the electron energy (from the valence band to the conduction band) for BTEX decomposition is changed due to the presence of manganese. This study provides a promising approach for designing an economical reusable nanomaterial, which can be used for VOC-contaminated indoor air.
Effect of Late 15N-Fertilization and Water Deficit on Allocation into the Gluten of German and Mediterranean Spring Wheat Cultivars
Authors: Götz Klaus-Peter , Erekul Osman
Published: November 2022

In a split N-application system, the objective was to quantify N/15N in gluten and non-gluten proteins after the late application of 30 or 60 kg N, whereby 10% of the third split was applied as 15N. This fertilization was combined with a reduced water supply for 21 days (well-watered (ww); water deficit (wd)). German spring wheat cultivars, Elite wheat Taifun, Quality wheat Monsun and cultivars from the Mediterranean territory, Golia, Gönen, were examined. The protein content in gluten was for 30 kg N, ww, similar for Taifun, Golia, and Gönen, but markedly lower in Monsun (231, 245, 247, 194 mg protein/g DM). The water deficit increased the protein content in the gluten of Golia and Gönen and was higher than that of Taifun and Monsun (297, 257, 249, 202 mg protein/g DM). Fertilization of 60 kg N, ww, did not result in any change in the protein content in gluten and differences between the cultivars were not detectable. The 15N protein in gluten was for 30 kg N, ww, markedly higher in Gönen (2.32 mg 15N protein/g DM), compared to Golia and Monsun (1.93, 1.50 mg 15N protein/g DM), and similar in Taifun (1.64 mg 15N protein/g DM). 15N fertilizer uptake into gluten was stimulated by water deficit for 30 and 60 kg N, leading to significantly increased 15N protein in Golia and Gönen, (2.38, 2.99, 4.34, 5.87 mg 15N protein/g DM). Fertilization of 60 kg N led to a proportional two-time increase in the 15N gluten protein of the four cultivars, in ww and wd plants. Assessed on the basis of 15N fertilizer allocation under wd conditions into gluten proteins, Golia and Gönen have a stronger sink activity, compared to Taifun and Monsun.
Use of Head and Chest Circumference Ratio as an Index of Fetal Growth Retardation in Preterm Infants
Authors: Shoji Hiromichi , Murano Yayoi , Saitoh Yukika , Ikeda Naho , Ohkawa Natsuki , Nishizaki Naoto , Hisata Ken , Kantake Masato , Obinata Kaoru , Yoneoka Daisuke , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: November 2022

We evaluated the relationship between fetal growth in preterm babies using the head circumference (HC)/chest circumference (CC) ratio and other anthropometric parameters at birth and at school age. Data were collected from 187 very low birth weight (VLBW) children born at less than 30 weeks of gestational age (GA) at birth and at 6 years. We assessed the correlation between the HC/CC ratio and body weight (BW), body length (BL), and HC z-scores at birth, and BW, body height (BH), and body mass index (BMI) z-scores at 6 years. Multiple regression analysis showed that BW z-score, BL z-score, and HC z-score at birth were significantly associated with HC/CC at birth. The BMI z-score at 6 years was also significantly associated with HC/CC at birth. The HC/CC ratio at birth is a reliable parameter for evaluating fetal growth restriction and a possible predictor of physical growth in VLBW children.
Lactobacillus gasseri RW2014 Ameliorates Hyperlipidemia by Modulating Bile Acid Metabolism and Gut Microbiota Composition in Rats
Authors: Li Xianping , Xiao Yuchun , Huang Yuanming , Song Liqiong , Li Mengde , Ren Zhihong
Published: November 2022

Hyperlipidemia is a leading risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. Dietary supplementation with probiotics has been suggested as an alternative intervention to lower cholesterol. In the current study, we isolated a strain of Lactobacillus gasseri RW2014 (LGA) from the feces of a healthy infant fed with breast milk, and it displayed bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity. Using this strain we determined its cholesterol-lowering and fatty liver-improving functions. SD rats were randomly divided into four groups. The control rats were fed a commercial chow diet and the other three groups were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for a 7-week experiment period. After two weeks of feeding, the rats in PBS, simvastin, and LGA group were daily administered through oral gavage with 2 mL PBS, simvastin (1 mg/mL), and 2 × 109 CFU/mouse live LGA in PBS, respectively. After five weeks of such treatment, the rats were euthanized and tissue samples were collected. Blood lipid and inflammatory factors were measured by ELISA, gut microbiota was determined by 16S rRNA sequencing, and bile acids profiles were detected by metabolomics. We found that LGA group had lower levels of blood cholesterol and liver steatosis compared to the simvastin group. LGA also significantly reducedthe levels of inflammatory factors in the serum, including TNFα, IL-1β, MCP-1, IL-6, and exotoxin (ET), and increased the levels of short-chain fatty acids in feces, including isobutyric acid, butyric acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, and hexanoic acid. In addition, LGA altered the compositions of gut microbiota as manifested by the increased ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroides and the relative abundance of Blautia genus. Targeted metabolomics results showed that bile acids, especially free bile acids and secondary bile acids in feces, were increased in LGA rats compared with the control rats. Accordingly, the rats administrated with LGA also had a higher abundance of serum bile acids, including 23-norcholic acid, 7-ketolithocholic acid, β-muricholic acid, cholic acid, and deoxycholic acid. Together, this study suggests that LGA may exert a cholesterol-lowering effect by modulating the metabolism of bile acids and the composition of gut microbiota.
Nutritional Practices and Body Composition of South African National-Level Spinal Cord-Injured Endurance Hand Cyclists
Authors: Gordon Reno Eron , Potgieter Sunita , Havemann-Nel Lize
Published: November 2022

Nutritional practices and body composition of para-athletes can impact their health and athletic performance. There is a paucity of research on the nutritional practices, including dietary and supplement intake, body composition and bone health of spinal cord-injured (SCI) endurance hand cyclists. This study assessed the body composition and dietary and supplement intake of 12 national-level SCI endurance hand cyclists (age: 44.0 ± 9.3 years). Bone mineral density (BMD) was assessed in a sub-sample of participants (n = 4) using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Estimated body fat percentage was healthy (18.4 ± 5.1%) and lumbar spine BMD for the sub-sample was adequate, however hip BMD was low (Z-score and/or T-scores < −2). Carbohydrate intake for male and female participants was below the recommended intake (3.8 (2.9–4.1) and 2.4 (2.0–2.7) g/kg BW, respectively). Overall protein intake was adequate, whilst fat intake was high for both males and females (39.7 (37.7–41.6) and 42.1 (39.0–45.3)% of total energy, respectively). The reported intakes for a few key micronutrients were also below the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) and/or adequate intake (AI) for males (vitamin D, calcium). The prevalence of supplement use before, during, and after training was 40%, 100%, and 60%, respectively. In conclusion, the hand cyclists could benefit from nutritional guidance to match their daily carbohydrate intake with exercise requirements and optimise their fat intake. Optimal vitamin D and calcium intake is also important especially in the light of poor bone health below the lesion level.
Phosphonated Polyethylenimine Maghemite Nanoparticles: A Convenient Support of Palladium for Cross-Coupling Reactions
Authors: Monteil Clément , Jean Etienne , Bar Nathalie , Villemin Didier
Published: November 2022

Phosphonated polyethylenimine grafted on iron oxide nanoparticles was used as a magnetic support for loading palladium. This cheap and accessible heterogeneous catalyst demonstrated good efficiency in Suzuki-Miyaura, Mizoroki-Heck, and Tsuji-Trost couplings. The nanocomposite is resistant to harsh conditions and can therefore be recycled up to 10 cycles with high catalyst efficiency.
SARS-CoV-2 Infection Prompts IL-1β-Mediated Inflammation and Reduces IFN-λ Expression in Human Lung Tissue
Authors: Vezzani Bianca , Neri Margherita , D’Errico Stefano , Papi Alberto , Contoli Marco , Giorgi Carlotta
Published: November 2022

Two years after its spreading, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still responsible for more than 2000 deaths per day worldwide, despite vaccines and monoclonal antibody countermeasures. Therefore, there is a need to understand the immune–inflammatory pathways that prompt the manifestation of the disease to identify a novel potential target for pharmacological intervention. In this context, the characterization of the main players in the SARS-CoV-2-induced cytokine storm is mandatory. To date, the most characterized have been IL-6 and the class I and II interferons, while less is known about the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β and class III interferons. Here, we report a preliminary study aimed at the characterization of the lung inflammatory context in COVID-19 patients, with a special focus on IFN-λ and IL-1β. By investigating IFN and inflammatory cytokine patterns by IHC in 10 deceased patients due to COVID-19 infection, compared to 10 control subjects, we reveal that while IFN-β production was increased in COVID-19 patients, IFN-λ was almost abolished. At the same time, the levels of IL-1β were dramatically improved, while IL-6 lung levels seem to be unaffected by the infection. Our findings highlight a central role of IL-1β in prompting lung inflammation after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Together, we show that IFN-λ is negatively affected by viral infection, supporting the idea that IFN-λ administration together with the pharmaceutical blockage of IL-1β represents a promising approach to revert the COVID-19-induced cytokine storm.
The Prevalence and Control of Lungworms of Pastoral Ruminants in Iran
Authors: Zafari Salman , Mohtasebi Sina , Sazmand Alireza , Bahari Aliasghar , Sargison Neil D. , Verocai Guilherme G.
Published: November 2022

Lungworms of the genera Dictyocaulus, Muellerius, Protostrongylus, and Cystocaulus are common helminths of domestic and wild ruminants with substantial veterinary and economic importance. Several studies have assessed the presence and prevalence of lungworm infections in ruminants in Iran. This report compiles the available scientific information about the occurrence of lungworms in domestic and wild ruminants in Iran between 1931 and June 2022 to give an insight into their epidemiology, and where possible to describe drug treatment efficacy. For this purpose, national and international scientific databases were searched. Overall, 54 publications comprising 33 articles in peer-reviewed journals, 8 conference papers, and 13 dissertations were evaluated regarding prevalence data; and an additional 4 peer-reviewed articles were evaluated regarding drug efficacy. Seven species of lungworms, namely Dictyocaulus filaria, Dictyocaulus viviparus, Dictyocaulus eckerti, Protostrongylus rufescens, Protostrongylus raillietti, Muellerius capillaris, and Cystocaulus ocreatus have been recorded from different ruminant hosts in Iran. Thirty-three studies conducted on small ruminant (sheep and goat) lungworms reported prevalences of lungworm infection of 11.6%, 45.81% and 66.29% using abattoir meat inspection, Baermann technique and fecal flotation, respectively. Eight studies conducted on large ruminants (cattle and water buffalo) reported prevalences of infection of 14.83%, 13.98% and 5% using abattoir meat inspection, the Baermann technique and fecal flotation, respectively. The prevalence of infection in wild ruminants was variable across examined species; 38% in urial, 37% in wild goats, 5% in goitered gazelles and 67% in red deer, in addition to a single case report in roe deer. There are few contemporary studies assessing the efficacy of currently available broad-spectrum anthelmintic compounds against lungworms in Iran. The high prevalence of multiple lungworm species in Iran, combined with a lack of information about drug efficacy, supports the need to improve the understanding of these important nematode parasites and inform the development of sustainable control strategies. The aim of this review and meta-analysis is to provide a baseline for future conventional parasitology and next generation molecular epidemiological studies of lungworm infection in pastoral ruminants in Iran.
Leveraging Dissolution by Autoinjector Designs
Authors: Spangardt Christoph , Keßler Christoph , Dobrzewski Ramona , Tepler Antonia , Hanio Simon , Klaubert Bernd , Meinel Lorenz
Published: November 2022

Chemical warfare or terrorism attacks with organophosphates may place intoxicated subjects under immediate life-threatening and psychologically demanding conditions. Antidotes, such as the oxime HI-6, which must be formulated as a powder for reconstitution reflecting the molecule’s light sensitivity and instability in aqueous solutions, dramatically improve recovery—but only if used soon after exposure. Muscle tremors, anxiety, and loss of consciousness after exposure jeopardize proper administration, translating into demanding specifications for the dissolution of HI-6. Reflecting the patients’ catastrophic situation and anticipated desire to react immediately to chemical weapon exposure, the dissolution should be completed within ten seconds. We are developing multi-dose and single-dose autoinjectors to reliably meet these dissolution requirements. The temporal and spatial course of dissolution within the various autoinjector designs was profiled colorimetrically. Based on these colorimetric insights with model dyes, we developed experimental setups integrating online conductometry to push experiments toward the relevant molecule, HI-6. The resulting blueprints for autoinjector designs integrated small-scale rotor systems, boosting dissolution across a wide range of viscosities, and meeting the required dissolution specifications driven by the use of these drug products in extreme situations.
18F-Radiolabeled Translocator Protein (TSPO) PET Tracers: Recent Development of TSPO Radioligands and Their Application to PET Study
Authors: Luu Truong Giang , Kim Hee-Kwon
Published: November 2022

Translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) is a transmembrane protein in the mitochondrial membrane, which has been identified as a peripheral benzodiazepine receptor. TSPO is generally present at high concentrations in steroid-producing cells and plays an important role in steroid synthesis, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. In the central nervous system, TSPO expression is relatively modest under normal physiological circumstances. However, some pathological disorders can lead to changes in TSPO expression. Overexpression of TSPO is associated with several diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases, neuroinflammation, brain injury, and cancers. TSPO has therefore become an effective biomarker of related diseases. Positron emission tomography (PET), a non-invasive molecular imaging technique used for the clinical diagnosis of numerous diseases, can detect diseases related to TSPO expression. Several radiolabeled TSPO ligands have been developed for PET. In this review, we describe recent advances in the development of TSPO ligands, and 18F-radiolabeled TSPO in particular, as PET tracers. This review covers pharmacokinetic studies, preclinical and clinical trials of 18F-labeled TSPO PET ligands, and the synthesis of TSPO ligands.
A Physiologically-Based Pharmacokinetic Model of Ruxolitinib and Posaconazole to Predict CYP3A4-Mediated Drug–Drug Interaction Frequently Observed in Graft versus Host Disease Patients
Authors: Gerner Bettina , Aghai-Trommeschlaeger Fatemeh , Kraus Sabrina , Grigoleit Götz Ulrich , Zimmermann Sebastian , Kurlbaum Max , Klinker Hartwig , Isberner Nora , Scherf-Clavel Oliver
Published: November 2022

Ruxolitinib (RUX) is approved for the treatment of steroid-refractory acute and chronic graft versus host disease (GvHD). It is predominantly metabolized via cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4. As patients with GvHD have an increased risk of invasive fungal infections, RUX is frequently combined with posaconazole (POS), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Knowledge of RUX exposure under concomitant POS treatment is scarce and recommendations on dose modifications are inconsistent. A physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was developed to investigate the drug–drug interaction (DDI) between POS and RUX. The predicted RUX exposure was compared to observed concentrations in patients with GvHD in the clinical routine. PBPK models for RUX and POS were independently set up using PK-Sim® Version 11. Plasma concentration-time profiles were described successfully and all predicted area under the curve (AUC) values were within 2-fold of the observed values. The increase in RUX exposure was predicted with a DDI ratio of 1.21 (Cmax) and 1.59 (AUC). Standard dosing in patients with GvHD led to higher RUX exposure than expected, suggesting further dose reduction if combined with POS. The developed model can serve as a starting point for further simulations of the implemented DDI and can be extended to further perpetrators of CYP-mediated PK-DDIs or disease-specific physiological changes.