bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do COVID-19 Infections Result in a Different Form of Secondary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Chu Raymond , van Eeden Charmaine , Suresh Sneha , Sligl Wendy I. , Osman Mohammed , Cohen Tervaert Jan Willem
Published: March 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in significant morbidity and mortality across the world, with no current effective treatments available. Recent studies suggest the possibility of a cytokine storm associated with severe COVID-19, similar to the biochemical profile seen in hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), raising the question of possible benefits that could be derived from targeted immunosuppression in severe COVID-19 patients. We reviewed the literature regarding the diagnosis and features of HLH, particularly secondary HLH, and aimed to identify gaps in the literature to truly clarify the existence of a COVID-19 associated HLH. Diagnostic criteria such as HScore or HLH-2004 may have suboptimal performance in identifying COVID-19 HLH-like presentations, and criteria such as soluble CD163, NK cell activity, or other novel biomarkers may be more useful in identifying this entity.
Electrophoretic Determination of Symmetric and Asymmetric Dimethylarginine in Human Blood Plasma with Whole Capillary Sample Injection
Authors: Tůma Petr , Sommerová Blanka , Koval Dušan , Couderc François
Published: March 2021

Asymmetric and symmetric dimethylarginines are toxic non-coded amino acids. They are formed by post-translational modifications and play multifunctional roles in some human diseases. Their determination in human blood plasma is performed using capillary electrophoresis with contactless conductivity detection. The separations are performed in a capillary covered with covalently bonded PAMAPTAC polymer, which generates anionic electroosmotic flow and the separation takes place in the counter-current regime. The background electrolyte is a 750 mM aqueous solution of acetic acid with pH 2.45. The plasma samples for analysis are treated by the addition of acetonitrile and injected into the capillary in a large volume, reaching 94.5% of the total volume of the capillary, and subsequently subjected to electrophoretic stacking. The attained LODs are 16 nm for ADMA and 22 nM for SDMA. The electrophoretic resolution of both isomers has a value of 5.3. The developed method is sufficiently sensitive for the determination of plasmatic levels of ADMA and SDMA. The determination does not require derivatization and the individual steps in the electrophoretic stacking are fully automated. The determined plasmatic levels for healthy individuals vary in the range 0.36–0.62 µM for ADMA and 0.32–0.70 µM for SDMA.
Two Faces of Autophagy in the Struggle against Cancer
Authors: Chmurska Anna , Matczak Karolina , Marczak Agnieszka
Published: March 2021

Autophagy can play a double role in cancerogenesis: it can either inhibit further development of the disease or protect cells, causing stimulation of tumour growth. This phenomenon is called “autophagy paradox”, and is characterised by the features that the autophagy process provides the necessary substrates for biosynthesis to meet the cell’s energy needs, and that the over-programmed activity of this process can lead to cell death through apoptosis. The fight against cancer is a difficult process due to high levels of resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. More and more research is indicating that autophagy may play a very important role in the development of resistance by protecting cancer cells, which is why autophagy in cancer therapy can act as a “double-edged sword”. This paper attempts to analyse the influence of autophagy and cancer stem cells on tumour development, and to compare new therapeutic strategies based on the modulation of these processes.
Plant-Based Bioactive Molecules in Improving Health and Preventing Lifestyle Diseases
Authors: Acquaviva Rosaria , Malfa Giuseppe Antonio , Di Giacomo Claudia
Published: March 2021

The Special Issue, “Plant-Based Bioactive Molecules in Improving Health and Preventing Life-style Diseases”, includes original research papers and reviews, which aim to increase knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying multiple biological effects of natural compounds from plants, responsible for maintaining human health and improving many diseases caused by people’s daily lifestyles [...]
The Way Forward for Indirect Structural Health Monitoring (iSHM) Using Connected and Automated Vehicles in Europe
Authors: Gkoumas Konstantinos , Gkoktsi Kyriaki , Bono Flavio , Galassi Maria Cristina , Tirelli Daniel
Published: March 2021

Europe’s aging transportation infrastructure requires optimized maintenance programs. However, data and monitoring systems may not be readily available to support strategic decisions or they may require costly installations in terms of time and labor requirements. In recent years, the possibility of monitoring bridges by indirectly sensing relevant parameters from traveling vehicles has emerged—an approach that would allow for the elimination of the costly installation of sensors and monitoring campaigns. The advantages of cooperative, connected, and automated mobility (CCAM), which is expected to become a reality in Europe towards the end of this decade, should therefore be considered for the future development of iSHM strategies. A critical review of methods and strategies for CCAM, including Intelligent Transportation Systems, is a prerequisite for moving towards the goal of identifying the synergies between CCAM and civil infrastructures, in line with future developments in vehicle automation. This study presents the policy framework of CCAM in Europe and discusses the policy enablers and bottlenecks of using CCAM in the drive-by monitoring of transport infrastructure. It also highlights the current direction of research within the iSHM paradigm towards the identification of technologies and methods that could benefit from the use of connected and automated vehicles (CAVs).
Analysis and Modeling of Wrinkling in Composite Forming
Authors: Boisse Philippe , Huang Jin , Guzman-Maldonado Eduardo
Published: March 2021

Different approaches for the simulation of wrinkling during forming of textile reinforcements are presented. It is shown that 3D finite element modeling requires the consideration of an additional bending stiffness of the fibers. In shell-type modeling, the bending stiffness is important because it conditions the size of the wrinkles. Different methods to take into account the bending stiffness independently of the tensile stiffness are presented. The onset and development of wrinkles during forming is a global problem that concerns all deformation modes. It is shown in examples that the shear locking angle is not sufficient to conclude about the development of wrinkles. This article highlights the two points common to the different cases of wrinkling of continuous fiber textile reinforcements: the quasi-inextensibility of the fibers and the possible slippage between the fibers. It presents and compares different approaches to consider these two aspects. The simulation of the simultaneous forming of multilayered textile reinforcements makes it possible to see the influence of the orientation of different plies which is an important factor with regard to wrinkling.
Volume and Nutrient Transports Disturbed by the Typhoon Chebi (2013) in the Upwelling Zone East of Hainan Island, China
Authors: Zheng Manli , Xie Lingling , Zheng Quanan , Li Mingming , Chen Fajin , Li Junyi
Published: March 2021

Using cruise observations before and after the typhoon Chebi in August 2013 and those without the typhoon in July 2012, this study investigates variations in current structure, nutrient distribution, and transports disturbed by a typhoon in a typical coastal upwelling zone east of Hainan Island in the northwestern South China Sea. The results show that along-shore northeastward flow dominates the coastal ocean with a volume transport of 0.64 × 106 m3/s in the case without the typhoon. The flow reversed southwestward, with its volume transport halved before the typhoon passage. After the typhoon passage, the flow returned back northeastward except the upper layer in waters deeper than 50 m and the total volume transport decreased to 0.10 × 106 m3/s. For the cross-shelf component, the flow kept shoreward, while transports crossing the 50 m isobath decreased from 0.25, 0.12 to 0.06 × 106 m3/s in the case without the typhoon as well as before and after typhoon passage, respectively. For the along-shore/cross-shelf nutrient transports, SiO32− has the largest value of 866.13/632.74 μmol/s per unit area, NO3− half of that, and PO43− and NO2− one order smaller in the offshore water without the typhoon. The values dramatically decreased to about one-third for SiO32−, NO3−, and PO43− after the typhoon, but changed little for NO2−. The disturbed wind field and associated Ekman flow and upwelling process may explain the variations in the current and nutrient transports after the typhoon.
Polymer-Drug Conjugates as Nanotheranostic Agents
Authors: Manandhar Sajana , Sjöholm Erica , Bobacka Johan , Rosenholm Jessica M. , Bansal Kuldeep K.
Published: March 2021

Since the last decade, the polymer-drug conjugate (PDC) approach has emerged as one of the most promising drug-delivery technologies owing to several benefits like circumventing premature drug release, offering controlled and targeted drug delivery, improving the stability, safety, and kinetics of conjugated drugs, and so forth. In recent years, PDC technology has advanced with the objective to further enhance the treatment outcomes by integrating nanotechnology and multifunctional characteristics into these systems. One such development is the ability of PDCs to act as theranostic agents, permitting simultaneous diagnosis and treatment options. Theranostic nanocarriers offer the opportunity to track the distribution of PDCs within the body and help to localize the diseased site. This characteristic is of particular interest, especially among those therapeutic approaches where external stimuli are supposed to be applied for abrupt drug release at the target site for localized delivery to avoid systemic side effects (e.g., Visudyne®). Thus, with the help of this review article, we are presenting the most recent updates in the domain of PDCs as nanotheranostic agents. Different methodologies utilized to design PDCs along with imaging characteristics and their applicability in a wide range of diseases, have been summarized in this article.
History and Prospects for African Land Governance: Institutions, Technology and ‘Land Rights for All’
Authors: Home Robert
Published: March 2021

Issues relating to land are specifically referred to in five of the United Nations’ (UN) 17 Sustainable Development Goals, and UN-Habitat’s Global Land Tools Network views access to land and tenure security as key to achieving sustainable, inclusive and efficient cities. The African continent is growing in importance, with climate change and population pressure on land. This review explores an interdisciplinary approach, and identifies recent advances in geo-spatial technology relevant to land governance in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It discusses historical legacies of colonialism that affect the culture of its land administration institutions, through three levels of governance: international/regional, national and sub-national. Short narratives on land law are discussed for four Anglophone former British colonies of SSA. A wide range of sources are drawn upon: academic research across disciplines, and official publications of various actors, including land professions (particularly surveyors, lawyers and planners), government and wider society. The findings are that African countries have carried forward colonial land governance structures into the post-independence political settlement, and that a gulf exists between the institutions, language and cultures of land governance, and the mass of its peoples struggling with basic issues of survival. This gulf may be addressed by recent approaches to land administration and technological advances in geo-spatial technology, and by new knowledge networks and interactions.
Bone Density Micro-CT Assessment during Embedding of the Innovative Multi-Spiked Connecting Scaffold in Periarticular Bone to Elaborate a Validated Numerical Model for Designing Biomimetic Fixation of Resurfacing Endoprostheses
Authors: Uklejewski Ryszard , Winiecki Mariusz , Patalas Adam , Rogala Piotr
Published: March 2021

Our team has been working for some time on designing a new kind of biomimetic fixation of resurfacing endoprostheses, in which the innovative multi-spiked connecting scaffold (MSC-Scaffold) that mimics the natural interface between articular cartilage and periarticular trabecular bone in human joints is the crucial element. This work aimed to develop a numerical model enabling the design of the considered joint replacement implant that would reflect the mechanics of interacting biomaterials. Thus, quantitative micro-CT analysis of density distribution in bone material during the embedding of MSC-Scaffold in periarticular bone was applied. The performed numerical studies and corresponding mechanical tests revealed, under the embedded MSC-Scaffold, the bone material densification affecting its mechanical properties. On the basis of these findings, the built numerical model was modified by applying a simulated insert of densified bone material. This modification led to a strong correlation between the re-simulation and experimental results (FVU = 0.02). The biomimetism of the MSC-Scaffold prototype that provided physiological load transfer from implant to bone was confirmed based on the Huber–von Mises–Hencky (HMH) stress maps obtained with the validated finite element (FE) model of the problem. The micro-CT bone density assessment performed during the embedding of the MSC-Scaffold prototype in periarticular bone provides insight into the mechanical behaviour of the investigated implant-bone system and validates the numerical model that can be used for the design of material and geometric features of a new kind of resurfacing endoprostheses fixation.
Deformation Resistance Performance of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Machined by Controlling Drilling Area Temperature below the Glass Transition Temperature
Authors: Zhang Chenping , Zhang Xiaohui , Duan Yugang , Xia Yu , Ming Yueke , Zhu Yansong
Published: March 2021

Drilling of carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRPs) is a challenging task in aviation and aerospace field. Damages, which can reduce the strength of the structure, often occur during secondary machining operations due to the applied cutting force and generated heat. The main objective of this study was to investigate the drilling performance and the deformation resistance of CFRPs subjected to cryogenic treatment based on glass transition temperature (Tg). Therefore, a cryogenic machining approach was adopted by fixing the workpiece inside a cryogenic box to drill CFRPs. The machining performance was briefly evaluated. Moreover, a through-hole drilling method was promoted to analyze the mechanism of different deformation mechanical properties. The results showed that the cryogenic machining approach improved the machining performance of CFRPs. Nevertheless, the residual intensity of cryo-treated specimen decreased (about 7.14%) due to the Tg-based viscoelasticity. These results demonstrate the great potential of this approach in advanced industrial applications and further pave the way for efficient secondary machining operation of CFRP components.
Structure-Gas Barrier Property Relationship in a Novel Polyimide Containing Naphthalene and Amide Groups: Evaluation by Experiments and Simulations
Authors: Zeng Yi , Liu Yiwu , Tan Jinghua , Huang Jie , Liu Junjie , Tang Ao , Chen Chengliang , Chen Hong
Published: March 2021

In order to meet the increasingly stringent requirements for heat resistance and barrier properties in the packaging and electronic device encapsulation field. A high-barrier polyimide (NAPPI) contains naphthalene ring and amide group was prepared by polymerization of a novel diamine (NAPDA) and pyromellitic dianhydride. The structure and properties of diamine monomers and polymers were characterized. Results show that the NAPPI exhibits superior barrier properties with extremely low water vapor and oxygen transmission rate values of 0.14 g·m−2·day−1 and 0.04 cm3·m−2·day−1, respectively. In addition, the NAPPI presents outstanding mechanical properties and thermal stability as well. This article attempts to explore the relationship between NAPPI structure and barrier properties by combining experiment and simulation. Studies on positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy, Wide angle X-ray diffractograms and molecular dynamics simulations prove that the NAPPI has smaller interplanar spacing and higher chain regularity. In addition, the strong chain rigidity and interchain cohesion of NAPPI due to the presence of the rigid naphthalene ring and a large number of hydrogen bond interactions formed by amide groups result in compact chain packing and smaller free volume, which reduces the solubility and diffusibility of small molecules in the matrix. In general, the simulation results are consistent with the experimental results, which are important for understanding the barrier mechanism of NAPPI.
Effect of Functionalization of Reduced Graphene Oxide Coatings with Nitrogen and Sulfur Groups on Their Anti-Corrosion Properties
Authors: Ollik Karolina , Karczewski Jakub , Lieder Marek
Published: March 2021

Electrophoretic production of anticorrosion carbonaceous coatings on copper could be successfully performed by anodic oxidation of negatively charged graphene platelets suspended in an aqueous solution. The various platelets were synthesized by Hummer’s method followed by a hydrothermal reduction in the presence of NH4SCN which was expected to substitute some parts of graphene structure with nitrogen and sulfur groups. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis confirmed that the graphene precursors, as well as the coatings, contained typical nitrogen groups, such as pyridinic and pyrrolic, and sulfur groups, such as thiol, thiophene, or C-SO2. However, due to oxidation during deposition, the qualitative and quantitative composition of the graphene coatings changed relative to the composition of the precursors. In particular, the concentration of nitrogen and sulfur dropped and some thiophene groups were oxidized to C-SO2. Studies showed the functionalized coatings had a uniform, defect-free, hydrophobic, more adhesive surface than nonmodified films. The corrosion measurements demonstrated that these coatings had better protective properties than the ones without these heteroatoms. This behavior can be assigned to the catalytic activity of nitrogen towards oxidation of C-SO2 groups to C-SO3H with oxygen.
Warpage Optimisation Using Recycled Polycar-bonates (PC) on Front Panel Housing
Authors: Tamizi Nur Aisyah Miza Ahmad , Rahim Shayfull Zamree Abd , Abdellah Abdellah El-hadj , Abdullah Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri , Nabiałek Marcin , Wysłocki Jerzy J. , Jeż Bartłomiej , Palutkiewicz Paweł , Rahman Rozyanty Abdul , Saad Mohd Nasir Mat , Ghazli Mohd Fathullah
Published: March 2021

Many studies have been done using recycled waste materials to minimise environmental problems. It is a great opportunity to explore mechanical recycling and the use of recycled and virgin blend as a material to produce new products with minimum defects. In this study, appropriate processing parameters were considered to mould the front panel housing part using R0% (virgin), R30% (30% virgin: 70% recycled), R40% (40% virgin: 60% recycled) and R50% (50% virgin: 50% recycled) of Polycarbonate (PC). The manufacturing ability and quality during preliminary stage can be predicted through simulation analysis using Autodesk Moldflow Insight 2012 software. The recommended processing parameters and values of warpage in x and y directions can also be obtained using this software. No value of warpage was obtained from simulation studies for x direction on the front panel housing. Therefore, this study only focused on reducing the warpage in the y direction. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) optimisation methods were used to find the optimal processing parameters. As the results, the optimal ratio of recycled PC material was found to be R30%, followed by R40% and R50% materials using RSM and GA methods as compared to the average value of warpage on the moulded part using R0%. The most influential processing parameter that contributed to warpage defect was packing pressure for all materials used in this study.
Overview of Materials Used for the Basic Elements of Hydraulic Actuators and Sealing Systems and Their Surfaces Modification Methods
Authors: Skowrońska Justyna , Kosucki Andrzej , Stawiński Łukasz
Published: March 2021

The article is an overview of various materials used in power hydraulics for basic hydraulic actuators components such as cylinders, cylinder caps, pistons, piston rods, glands, and sealing systems. The aim of this review is to systematize the state of the art in the field of materials and surface modification methods used in the production of actuators. The paper discusses the requirements for the elements of actuators and analyzes the existing literature in terms of appearing failures and damages. The most frequently applied materials used in power hydraulics are described, and various surface modifications of the discussed elements, which are aimed at improving the operating parameters of actuators, are presented. The most frequently used materials for actuators elements are iron alloys. However, due to rising ecological requirements, there is a tendency to looking for modern replacements to obtain the same or even better mechanical or tribological parameters. Sealing systems are manufactured mainly from thermoplastic or elastomeric polymers, which are characterized by low friction and ensure the best possible interaction of seals with the cooperating element. In the field of surface modification, among others, the issue of chromium plating of piston rods has been discussed, which, due, to the toxicity of hexavalent chromium, should be replaced by other methods of improving surface properties.
Failure Mechanism of Hybrid Steel Beams with Trapezoidal Corrugated-Web Non-Welded Inclined Folds
Authors: Elamary Ahmed S. , Alharthi Yasir , Abdalla Osama , Alqurashi Muwaffaq , Sharaky Ibrahim A.
Published: March 2021

Literature of Steel Beams with a thin-walled trapezoidal Corrugated Web (SBCWs) shows that the capacity of SBCWs is affected by both the fatigue cracks initiated along the inclined folds (IFs) and the maximal additional stress located in the middle of the IFs. An experimental investigation on the behaviour of hybrid SBCWs under flexure is presented in this paper. This study focuses on the effect of the welding IF between the web and flanges (IFs welded or non-welded), the horizontal-fold length (200, 260, and 350 mm), and transversal flange stiffeners on the failure mechanism of the SBCW under three line load. Accordingly, six hybrid specimens were fabricated, instrumented, and tested (five SBCW specimens and one specimen with a flat web). The test setup was designed to generate shear and a moment in the testing zone via three-point bending. The results indicated that non-welded IFs specimens with or without flange stiffeners failed owing to web tearing after web and flange local buckling. The failure mode of the specimen with continuous welding between the web and flanges was local flange buckling. Finally, the paper presents a comparison between the experimental results and the European Code to predict the capacity of the flange towards local buckling. It was concluded that the non-welding the IFs affected the inelastic behaviour and the capacity of the SBCWs. In addition, the bending resistance equations presented by EN 1993-1-5 can safely predict the test results of the non-welded inclined fold and yield a high safe variation.
Planococcus maritimus ML1206 Isolated from Wild Oysters Enhances the Survival of Caenorhabditis elegans against Vibrio anguillarum
Authors: Li Ying-Xiu , Wang Nan-Nan , Zhou Yan-Xia , Lin Chun-Guo , Wu Jing-Shan , Chen Xin-Qi , Chen Guan-Jun , Du Zong-Jun
Published: March 2021

With the widespread occurrence of aquaculture diseases and the broad application of antibiotics, drug-resistant pathogens have increasingly affected aquatic animals’ health. Marine probiotics, which live under high pressure in a saltwater environment, show high potential as a substitute for antibiotics in the field of aquatic disease control. In this study, twenty strains of non-hemolytic bacteria were isolated from the intestine of wild oysters and perch, and a model of Caenorhabditis elegans infected by Vibrio anguillarum was established. Based on the model, ML1206, which showed a 99% similarity of 16S rRNA sequence to Planococcus maritimus, was selected as a potential marine probiotic, with strong antibacterial capabilities and great acid and bile salt tolerance, to protect Caenorhabditis elegans from being damaged by Vibrio anguillarum. Combined with plate counting and transmission electron microscopy, it was found that strain ML1206 could significantly inhibit Vibrio anguillarum colonization in the intestinal tract of Caenorhabditis elegans. Acute oral toxicity tests in mice showed that ML1206 was safe and non-toxic. The real-time qPCR results showed a higher expression level of genes related to the antibacterial peptide (ilys-3) and detoxification (ugt-22, cyp-35A3, and cyp-14A3) in the group of Caenorhabditis elegans protected by ML1206 compared to the control group. It is speculated that ML1206, as a potential probiotic, may inhibit the infection caused by Vibrio anguillarum through stimulating Caenorhabditis elegans to secrete antibacterial effectors and detoxification proteins. This paper provides a new direction for screening marine probiotics and an experimental basis to support the potential application of ML1206 as a marine probiotic in aquaculture.
Chitin Synthesis and Degradation in Crustaceans: A Genomic View and Application
Authors: Zhang Xiaojun , Yuan Jianbo , Li Fuhua , Xiang Jianhai
Published: March 2021

Chitin is among the most important components of the crustacean cuticular exoskeleton and intestinal peritrophic matrix. With the progress of genomics and sequencing technology, a large number of gene sequences related to chitin metabolism have been deposited in the GenBank database in recent years. Here, we summarized the genes and pathways associated with the biosynthesis and degradation of chitins in crustaceans based on genomic analyses. We found that chitin biosynthesis genes typically occur in single or two copies, whereas chitin degradation genes are all multiple copies. Moreover, the chitinase genes are significantly expanded in most crustacean genomes. The gene structure and expression pattern of these genes are similar to those of insects, albeit with some specific characteristics. Additionally, the potential applications of the chitin metabolism genes in molting regulation and immune defense, as well as industrial chitin degradation and production, are also summarized in this review.
The Role of Single-Nucleotide Variants of NOS1, NOS2, and NOS3 Genes in the Comorbidity of Arterial Hypertension and Tension-Type Headache
Authors: Shnayder Natalia A. , Petrova Marina M. , Moskaleva Polina V. , Shesternya Pavel A. , Pozhilenkova Elena A. , Nasyrova Regina F.
Published: March 2021

Patients with tension-type headache (TTH) have an increased risk of developing arterial hypertension (AH), while hypertensive subjects do seem to have an increased risk of TTH. We searched for full-text English publications in databases using keywords and combined word searches over the past 15 years. In addition, earlier publications of historical interest were included in the review. In our review, we summed up the single nucleotide variants (SNVs) of Nitric Oxide Synthases (NOSs) genes involved in the development of essential AH and TTH. The results of studies we discussed in this review are contradictory. This might be due to different designs of the studies, small sample sizes in some of them, as well as different social and geographical characteristics. However, the contribution of genetic and environmental factors remains understudied. This makes the issue interesting for researchers, as understanding these mechanisms can contribute to a search for new approaches to pathogenetic and disease-modifying treatment of the AH and TTH phenotype. New drugs against AH and TTH can be based on inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production, blockade of steps in the NO-cGMP pathway, or NO scavenging. Indeed, selective neuronal NOS (n-NOS) and inducible NOS (i-NOS) inhibitors are already in early clinical development.
Facile Electrochemical Method for the Fabrication of Stable Corrosion-Resistant Superhydrophobic Surfaces on Zr-Based Bulk Metallic Glasses
Authors: Yu Mengmeng , Zhang Ming , Sun Jing , Liu Feng , Wang Yujia , Ding Guanzhong , Xie Xiubo , Liu Li , Zhao Xiangjin , Li Haihong
Published: March 2021

Both surface microstructure and low surface energy modification play a vital role in the preparation of superhydrophobic surfaces. In this study, a safe and simple electrochemical method was developed to fabricate superhydrophobic surfaces of Zr-based metallic glasses with high corrosion resistance. First, micro–nano composite structures were generated on the surface of Zr-based metallic glasses by electrochemical etching in NaCl solution. Next, stearic acid was used to decrease surface energy. The effects of electrochemical etching time on surface morphology and wettability were also investigated through scanning electron microscopy and contact angle measurements. Furthermore, the influence of micro–nano composite structures and roughness on the wettability of Zr-based metallic glasses was analysed on the basis of the Cassie–Baxter model. The water contact angle of the surface was 154.3° ± 2.2°, and the sliding angle was <5°, indicating good superhydrophobicity. Moreover, the potentiodynamic polarisation test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy suggested excellent corrosion resistance performance, and the inhibition efficiency of the superhydrophobic surface reached 99.6%. Finally, the prepared superhydrophobic surface revealed excellent temperature-resistant and self-cleaning properties.
Synthesis, Anticonvulsant, and Antinociceptive Activity of New 3-(2-Chlorophenyl)- and 3-(3-Chlorophenyl)-2,5-dioxo-pyrrolidin-1-yl-acetamides
Authors: Góra Małgorzata , Czopek Anna , Rapacz Anna , Gębska Anna , Wójcik-Pszczoła Katarzyna , Pękala Elżbieta , Kamiński Krzysztof
Published: March 2021

The new series of 3-(2-chlorophenyl)- and 3-(3-chlorophenyl)-pyrrolidine-2,5-dione-acetamide derivatives as potential anticonvulsant and analgesic agents was synthesized. The compounds obtained were evaluated in the following acute models of epilepsy: maximal electroshock (MES), psychomotor (6 Hz, 32 mA), and subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole (scPTZ) seizure tests. The most active substance-3-(2-chlorophenyl)-1-{2-[4-(4-fluorophenyl)piperazin-1-yl]-2-oxoethyl}-pyrrolidine-2,5-dione (6) showed more beneficial ED50 and protective index values than the reference drug—valproic acid (68.30 mg/kg vs. 252.74 mg/kg in the MES test and 28.20 mg/kg vs. 130.64 mg/kg in the 6 Hz (32 mA) test, respectively). Since anticonvulsant drugs are often effective in neuropathic pain management, the antinociceptive activity for two the promising compounds—namely, 6 and 19—was also investigated in the formalin model of tonic pain. Additionally, for the aforementioned compounds, the affinity for the voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels, as well as GABAA and TRPV1 receptors, was determined. As a result, the most probable molecular mechanism of action for the most active compound 6 relies on interaction with neuronal voltage-sensitive sodium (site 2) and L-type calcium channels. Compounds 6 and 19 were also tested for their neurotoxic and hepatotoxic properties and showed no significant cytotoxic effect.
Preparation of Propanols by Glycerol Hydrogenolysis over Bifunctional Nickel-Containing Catalysts
Authors: Greish Alexander A. , Finashina Elena D. , Tkachenko Olga P. , Kustov Leonid M.
Published: March 2021

The paper presents the results obtained in studying glycerol hydrogenolysis into 1-propanol and 2-propanol over bifunctional Ni/WO3-TiO2 and Ni/WO3-ZrO2 catalysts in the flow system. Due to the optimal combination of acidic and hydrogenation properties of the heterogeneous catalysts, they exhibit higher performance in glycerol conversion into C3 alcohols, although the process is carried out in rather mild conditions. At the reaction temperature of 250 °C and hydrogen pressure of 3 MPa, the total yield of 1-propanol and 2-propanol reaches 95%, and the glycerol conversion is close to 100%.
Role of Bacillus cereus in Improving the Growth and Phytoextractability of Brassica nigra (L.) K. Koch in Chromium Contaminated Soil
Authors: Akhtar Nosheen , Ilyas Noshin , Yasmin Humaira , Sayyed R. , Hasnain Zuhair , A. Elsayed Elsayed , El Enshasy Hesham
Published: March 2021

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) mediate heavy metal tolerance and improve phytoextraction potential in plants. The present research was conducted to find the potential of bacterial strains in improving the growth and phytoextraction abilities of Brassica nigra (L.) K. Koch. in chromium contaminated soil. In this study, a total of 15 bacterial strains were isolated from heavy metal polluted soil and were screened for their heavy metal tolerance and plant growth promotion potential. The most efficient strain was identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and was identified as Bacillus cereus. The isolate also showed the potential to solubilize phosphate and synthesize siderophore, phytohormones (indole acetic acid, cytokinin, and abscisic acid), and osmolyte (proline and sugar) in chromium (Cr+3) supplemented medium. The results of the present study showed that chromium stress has negative effects on seed germination and plant growth in B. nigra while inoculation of B. cereus improved plant growth and reduced chromium toxicity. The increase in seed germination percentage, shoot length, and root length was 28.07%, 35.86%, 19.11% while the fresh and dry biomass of the plant increased by 48.00% and 62.16%, respectively, as compared to the uninoculated/control plants. The photosynthetic pigments were also improved by bacterial inoculation as compared to untreated stress-exposed plants, i.e., increase in chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, chlorophyll a + b, and carotenoid was d 25.94%, 10.65%, 20.35%, and 44.30%, respectively. Bacterial inoculation also resulted in osmotic adjustment (proline 8.76% and sugar 28.71%) and maintained the membrane stability (51.39%) which was also indicated by reduced malondialdehyde content (59.53% decrease). The antioxidant enzyme activities were also improved to 35.90% (superoxide dismutase), 59.61% (peroxide), and 33.33% (catalase) in inoculated stress-exposed plants as compared to the control plants. B. cereus inoculation also improved the uptake, bioaccumulation, and translocation of Cr in the plant. Data showed that B. cereus also increased Cr content in the root (2.71-fold) and shoot (4.01-fold), its bioaccumulation (2.71-fold in root and 4.03-fold in the shoot) and translocation (40%) was also high in B. nigra. The data revealed that B. cereus is a multifarious PGPR that efficiently tolerates heavy metal ions (Cr+3) and it can be used to enhance the growth and phytoextraction potential of B. nigra in heavy metal contaminated soil.
Lutonarin from Barley Seedlings Inhibits the Lipopolysacchride-Stimulated Inflammatory Response of RAW 264.7 Macrophages by Suppressing Nuclear Factor-κB Signaling
Authors: Yang Ji Yeong , Woo So-Yeun , Lee Mi Ja , Kim Hyun Young , Lee Jin Hwan , Kim Sa-Hyun , Seo Woo Duck
Published: March 2021

Extracts from barley seedlings (BS) have known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The flavonoid lutonarin (LN) is a component of BS extract and has several known bioactivities. Here, we evaluated LN anti-inflammatory efficacy against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Lutonarin was isolated from BS by methanol extraction and characterized by ultra-performance liquid chromatography and quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS). Lutonarin did not reduce the viability or enhance the apoptosis rate of RAW 264.7 macrophages at concentrations up to 150 µM. Concentrations within 20–60 µM dose-dependently suppressed the LPS-induced expression, phosphorylation, and nuclear translocation of the inflammatory transcription factor nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). Furthermore, LN suppressed the LPS-induced upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and of the inflammatory enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Lutonarin may be a safe and effective therapeutic agent for alleviation of pathological inflammation.
Methodological Fallacies in the Determination of Serum/Plasma Glutathione Limit Its Translational Potential in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Sotgia Salvatore , Fois Alessandro G. , Paliogiannis Panagiotis , Carru Ciriaco , Mangoni Arduino A. , Zinellu Angelo
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to review and critically appraise the current methodological issues undermining the suitability of the measurement of serum/plasma glutathione, both in the total and reduced form, as a measure of systemic oxidative stress in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Fourteen relevant articles published between 2001 and 2020, in 2003 subjects, 1111 COPD patients, and 892 controls, were reviewed. Nine studies, in 902 COPD patients and 660 controls, measured glutathione (GSH) in the reduced form (rGSH), while the remaining five, in 209 COPD patients and 232 controls, measured total GSH (tGSH). In the control group, tGSH ranged between 5.7 and 7.5 µmol/L, whilst in COPD patients, it ranged between 4.5 and 7.4 µmol/L. The mean tGSH was 6.6 ± 0.9 µmol/L in controls and 5.9 ± 1.4 µmol/L in patients. The concentrations of rGSH in the control group showed a wide range, between 0.47 and 415 µmol/L, and a mean value of 71.9 ± 143.1 µmol/L. Similarly, the concentrations of rGSH in COPD patients ranged between 0.49 and 279 µmol/L, with a mean value of 49.9 ± 95.9 µmol/L. Pooled tGSH concentrations were not significantly different between patients and controls (standard mean difference (SMD) = −1.92, 95% CI −1582 to 0.0219; p = 0.057). Depending on whether the mean concentrations of rGSH in controls were within the accepted normal range of 0.5–5.0 µmol/L, pooled rGSH concentrations showed either a significant (SMD = −3.8, 95% CI −2.266 to −0.709; p < 0.0001) or nonsignificant (SMD = −0.712, 95% CI −0.627 to 0.293; p = 0.48) difference. These results illustrate the existing and largely unaddressed methodological issues in the interpretation of the serum/plasma concentrations of tGSH and rGSH in COPD.
Lipid Formulations and Bioconjugation Strategies for Indomethacin Therapeutic Advances
Authors: Gliszczyńska Anna , Nowaczyk Marta
Published: March 2021

Indomethacin (IND) is a drug which after successful clinical trials became available for general prescription in 1965 and from that time is one of the most widely used anti-inflammatory drug with the highest potencies in the in vitro and in vivo models. However, despite its high therapeutic efficacy in relieving the symptoms of certain arthritis and in treating gout or collagen diseases, administration of IND causes a number of adverse effects, such as gastrointestinal ulceration, frequent central nervous system disorders and renal toxicity. These obstacles significantly limit the practical applications of IND and make that 10–20% of patients discontinue its use. Therefore, during the last three decades many attempts have been made to design novel formulations of IND aimed to increase its therapeutic benefits minimizing its adverse effects. In this review we summarize pharmacological information about IND and analyze its new lipid formulations and lipid bioconjugates as well as discuss their efficacy and potential application.
Multispecies Identification of Oilseed- and Meat-Specific Proteins and Heat-Stable Peptide Markers in Food Products
Authors: Kotecka-Majchrzak Klaudia , Kasałka-Czarna Natalia , Sumara Agata , Fornal Emilia , Montowska Magdalena
Published: March 2021

Consumer demand for both plant products and meat products enriched with plant raw materials is constantly increasing. Therefore, new versatile and reliable methods are needed to find and combat fraudulent practices in processed foods. The objective of this study was to identify oilseed species-specific peptide markers and meat-specific markers that were resistant to processing, for multispecies authentication of different meat and vegan food products using the proteomic LC-MS/MS method. To assess the limit of detection (LOD) for hemp proteins, cooked meatballs consisting of three meat species and hemp cake at a final concentration of up to 7.4% were examined. Hemp addition at a low concentration of below 1% was detected. The LOD for edestin subunits and albumin was 0.9% (w/w), whereas for 7S vicilin-like protein it was 4.2% (w/w). Specific heat-stable peptides unique to hemp seeds, flaxseed, nigella, pumpkin, sesame, and sunflower seeds, as well as guinea fowl, rabbit, pork, and chicken meat, were detected in different meat and vegan foods. Most of the oilseed-specific peptides were identified as processing-resistant markers belonging to 11S globulin subunits, namely conlinin, edestin, helianthinin, pumpkin vicilin-like or late embryogenesis proteins, and sesame legumin-like as well as 2S albumins and oleosin isoforms or selected enzymic proteins.
The Oral Administration of Sanguisorba officinalis Extract Improves Physical Performance through LDHA Modulation
Authors: Han Jung Ho , Kim MinJeong , Choi Hee-Jin , Jin Jung Sook , Lee Syng-Ook , Bae Sung-Jin , Ryu Dongryeol , Ha Ki-Tae
Published: March 2021

Muscle fatigue is induced by an acute or chronic physical performance inability after excessive physical activity often associated with lactate accumulation, the end-product of glycolysis. In this study, the water-extracted roots of Sanguisorba officinalis L., a herbal medicine traditionally used for inflammation and diarrhea, reduced the activities of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) in in vitro enzyme assay myoblast C2C12 cells and murine muscle tissue. Physical performance measured by a treadmill test was improved in the S. officinalis-administrated group. The analysis of mouse serum and tissues showed significant changes in lactate levels. Among the proteins related to energy metabolism-related physical performance, phosphorylated-AMP-activated protein kinase alpha (AMPKα) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α) levels were enhanced, whereas the amount of LDHA was suppressed. Therefore, S. officinalis might be a candidate for improving physical performance via inhibiting LDHA and glycolysis.
Tablet of Spondias mombin L. Developed from Nebulized Extract Prevents Gastric Ulcers in Mice via Cytoprotective and Antisecretory Effects
Authors: Araruna Maria Elaine , Silva Pablo , Almeida Maria , Rêgo Renaly , Dantas Raiff , Albuquerque Hilton , Cabral Ingrid , Apolinário Nadjaele , Medeiros Francinalva , Medeiros Ana , Santos Vanda
Published: March 2021

Spondias mombin L. (Anacardiaceae) has a worldwide distribution and is present in all regions of Brazil. Its leaves, flowers and bark are used as teas in folk medicine to treat diseases of the digestive system. This study aimed to evaluate the acute non-clinical toxicity, gastroprotective activity, and the related mechanisms of action of nebulized extract and tablets based on dried Spondias mombin (SmNE). SmNE screening showed the presence of flavonoids (0.65%), polyphenols (25.50%), where the major compound is gallic acid. In the acute oral toxicity assay, a dose of 2000 mg/kg of SmNE administered orally in Swiss mice did not induce any behavioral changes. SmNE (250 or 500 mg/kg p.o) significantly reduced the ulcerative lesion area when compared to the control group in ethanol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) models. Results showed that treatment with SmNE (250 mg/kg) reduced acid secretion and gastric content, accompanied with an increase in pH. Previous administration of indomethacin and glibenclamide reversed the protection provided by SmNE, confirming the participation of prostaglandins (PGs) and ATP-sensitive potassium channels (KATP) in its gastroprotective effect. The SmNE tablets met the pharmacopeial quality requirements with gastroprotective activity and similar protection in comparison to the isolated extract administrated. In conclusion, SmNe has a gastroprotective activity related to cytoprotective mechanisms, such as the participation of endogenous prostaglandins and KATP channels, having an anti-secretory effect with systemic action. The formulation obtained presented gastroprotective effects similar to the administration of the extract, the tablets showed favorable compression characteristics by the direct route and met the pharmacopeial quality requirements.
Bioactive and Nutritional Potential of Medicinal and Aromatic Plant (MAP) Seasoning Mixtures
Authors: Novais Cláudia , Pereira Carla , Molina Adriana K. , Liberal Ângela , Dias Maria Inês , Añibarro-Ortega Mikel , Alves Maria José , Calhelha Ricardo C. , Ferreira Isabel C.F.R. , Barros Lillian
Published: March 2021

Medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs), worldwide appreciated and used as condiments, dyes, and preservatives, possess several biological properties that justify their continuous application in the food industry. In the present study, the nutritional and chemical profiles, as well as the bioactive properties of four combinations of condiments, sold for seasoning poultry, meat, fish, and salads, were evaluated. Twenty-five phenolic compounds (HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS) were identified, with apigenin-O-malonyl-pentoside-hexoside as the major compound detected in all extracts. Oxalic and citric acids were identified in all mixtures (UFLC-PDA), as well as all the four tocopherol isoforms (HPLC-fluorescence). Regarding bioactivities, the mixtures for meat and salads (TBARS) and meat and poultry (OxHLIA) stood out for their antioxidant potential, whereas for the anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties, the mixtures revealing the greatest results were those for poultry and salad, respectively. In terms of antimicrobial activity, all the mixtures revealed the capacity to inhibit the growth of some bacterial strains. In brief, condiment mixtures showed to be a good source of bioactive compounds, as they confer health benefits, validating the importance of their inclusion in the human diet as a good dietary practice.
Recent Advances and Trends in Chemical CPP–Drug Conjugation Techniques
Authors: Gayraud Félix , Klußmann Merlin , Neundorf Ines
Published: March 2021

This review summarizes recent developments in conjugation techniques for the synthesis of cell-penetrating peptide (CPP)–drug conjugates targeting cancer cells. We will focus on small organic molecules as well as metal complexes that were used as cytostatic payloads. Moreover, two principle ways of coupling chemistry will be discussed direct conjugation as well as the use of bifunctional linkers. While direct conjugation of the drug to the CPP is still popular, the use of bifunctional linkers seems to gain increasing attention as it offers more advantages related to the linker chemistry. Thus, three main categories of linkers will be highlighted, forming either disulfide acid-sensitive or stimuli-sensitive bonds. All techniques will be thoroughly discussed by their pros and cons with the aim to help the reader in the choice of the optimal conjugation technique that might be used for the synthesis of a given CPP–drug conjugate