bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the Semiconductor Defect Density on Solution-Processed Flexible Schottky Barrier Diodes
Authors: Tinoco Julio C. , Hernandez Samuel A. , Olvera María de la Luz , Estrada Magali , García Rodolfo , Martinez-Lopez Andrea G.
Published: May 2022

Schottky barrier diodes, developed by low-cost techniques and low temperature processes (LTP-SBD), have gained attention for different kinds of novel applications, including flexible electronic fabrication. This work analyzes the behavior of the I–V characteristic of solution processed, ZnO Schottky barrier diodes, fabricated at a low temperature. It is shown that the use of standard extraction methods to determine diode parameters in these devices produce significant dispersion of the ideality factor with values from 2.2 to 4.1, as well as a dependence on the diode area without physical meaning. The analysis of simulated I–V characteristic of LTP-SBD, and its comparison with experimental measurements, confirmed that it is necessary to consider the presence of a density of states (DOS) in the semiconductor gap, to understand specific changes observed in their performance, with respect to standard SBDs. These changes include increased values of Rs, as well as its dependence on bias, an important reduction of the diode current and small rectification values (RR). Additionally, it is shown that the standard extraction methodologies cannot be used to obtain diode parameters of LTP-SBD, as it is necessary to develop adequate parameter extraction methodologies for them.
Optimization of Optical Phase Profile in Beam Deflector with Advanced Simulation Method for High Diffraction Efficiency
Authors: Manko Andrey , Kim Young , Morozov Aleksander , Palto Serguei , Won Kanghee , Lee Hong-Seok
Published: May 2022

Controlling the phase of light with a high efficiency and precision is essential for applications in imaging, tunable devices, and optical systems. Spatial light modulators (SLMs) based on liquid crystals (LCs) have been regarded as one of the best choices for the generation of phase profiles for the steering of light. The upper glass substrate has an unpatterned electrode for a common electrode, while the lower glass substrate has one-dimensional micro-patterned electrodes for controlling the single pixel level by the applied voltages. By applying different voltages to each electrode to create a sawtooth-shaped phase profile, the collimated input beam is deflected to the desired angle. To maximize the diffraction efficiency (DE) values, an advanced simulation method has been developed to find the optimized phase profile through the analysis of LC director distributions. The resulting diffraction patterns are investigated both computationally and experimentally, with a good agreement between the results obtained. Finally, the beam deflector (BD) system with an advanced driving algorithm has a high 1st order DE, about 60%, 37%, and 7.5% at 1°, 2.5°, and a maximum steering angle of 7.5°, respectively. The LC director distributions in relation to various diffraction angles are simulated and an experimental success in realizing enhanced DE for the beam steering device is presented.
Characteristics of Activation Rate and Damage of Ion-Implanted Phosphorous in 4H-SiC after Different Annealing by Optical Absorption
Authors: Wu Jingmin , Yang Xiang , Wang Fengxuan , Guo Zhiyu , Fan Zhongchao , He Zhi , Yang Fuhua
Published: May 2022

We investigated the ellipsometer-based characterization method being used to quickly evaluate the depth of the damage layer in ion-implanted 4H-SiC. This method had the advantages of low cost, convenience, and non-destructiveness. Optical absorption of n-type 4H-SiC substrate, P+ ion-implanted, laser-annealed, and conventional high-temperature annealed wafers were investigated at room temperature. Three peaks were observed in the absorption spectra collected for various samples. The degree of electrical activation after laser annealing or high-temperature annealing was evaluated qualitatively from the absorption peak intensity at 2.67 eV. The circular transmission line method (CTLM) results were consistent with the optical absorption results. However, it was found that the effective carrier concentration after laser annealing was significantly lower than that after high-temperature annealing.
A Terahertz Optomechanical Detector Based on Metasurface and Bi-Material Micro-Cantilevers
Authors: Zhu Hailiang , Wang Kai , Liu Ganyu , Wang Gengchen , Mou Jinchao , Zhang Weiwei , Wei Gao
Published: May 2022

Terahertz imaging technology has shown great potential in many fields. As the core component of terahertz imaging systems, terahertz detectors have received extensive attention. In this paper, a metasurface-based terahertz optomechanical detector is proposed, which is made of two fabrication-friendly materials: gold and silicon nitride. The optomechanical detector is essentially a thermal detector composed of metasurface absorber, bi-material micro-cantilevers and heat insulation pillars. Compared with traditional thermal terahertz detectors, the optomechanical detector employs a metasurface absorber as the terahertz radiation coupler and obtains an absorptivity higher than 90% from 3.24 to 3.98 THz, which is much higher than that of traditional terahertz detectors with absorbers made from natural materials. Furthermore, the detector is fabricated by MEMS process and its responsivity has been verified by a specifically designed optical read-out system; the measured optomechanical responsivity is 24.8 μm/μW, which agrees well with the multi-physics simulation. These results indicated that the detector can be employed as a pixel to form a terahertz focal plane array in the future, and further realize real-time terahertz imaging at room temperature.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Microbial Nonribosomal Synthesis of Secondary Metabolites”
Authors: Cociancich Stéphane , Leclère Valérie
Published: May 2022

Microbial secondary metabolites are natural products that display various therapeutical or agrochemical relevant activities (e [...]
Unveiling the Hidden Therapeutic Potential of Carnosine, a Molecule with a Multimodal Mechanism of Action: A Position Paper
Authors: Caruso Giuseppe
Published: May 2022

Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) is a naturally occurring endogenous dipeptide and an over-the-counter food supplement with a well-demonstrated multimodal mechanism of action that includes the detoxification of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, the down-regulation of the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, the inhibition of aberrant protein formation, and the modulation of cells in the peripheral (macrophages) and brain (microglia) immune systems. Since its discovery more than 100 years ago, a plethora of in vivo preclinical studies have been carried out; however, there is still substantial heterogeneity regarding the route of administration, the dosage, the duration of the treatment, and the animal model selected, underlining the urgent need for “coordinated/aligned” preclinical studies laying the foundations for well-defined future clinical trials. The main aim of the present position paper is to critically and concisely consider these key points and open a discussion on the possible “alignment” for future studies, with the goal of validating the full therapeutic potential of this intriguing molecule.
Mechanochemistry and Eco-Bases for Sustainable Michael Addition Reactions
Authors: Lock Toy Ki Yvette , Garcia Armelle , Pelissier Franck , Olszewski Tomasz K. , Babst-Kostecka Alicja , Legrand Yves-Marie , Grison Claude
Published: May 2022

The Michael addition reaction was revisited with a full focus on sustainability combined with efficiency, using mechanochemistry in mild conditions. First, the synthesis of cyclopentenone derivatives was chosen as a model reaction to find optimal conditions in mechanochemistry while using classical but weak bases. The reaction was efficient (84–95% yields), fast (2–6 h), solvent free, and required 0.1 equivalent of base. Aiming to reach greener conditions, classical bases were then replaced using new bio-sourced bases, called Eco-bases, that were easily prepared from plants and led to heterogeneous catalysts. The composition and structure of Eco-bases were characterized by MP-AES, XRPD, EBSD/EDS, HRTEM/EDX and ion chromatography. Interestingly, a high ratio of potassium was observed with the presence of K2Ca(CO3)2 for the most effective Eco-base. The new Eco-bases were used for the mechanical-assisted construction of functionalized alkenone derivatives. The versatility of the method has been successfully applied with good to excellent yields to different Michael donors and acceptors. Eco-bases were recycled and reused four times with the same performances. Combining Eco-bases and mechanochemistry in Michael addition reactions allowed reaching a maximum degree of sustainability (efficient, rapid, low catalyst loading, solvent-free reactions with bio-sourced catalysts) and participating in the development of mechanochemistry in sustainable chemistry.
Optimization of Nanohybrid Biosensors Based on Electro-Crosslinked Tannic Acid Capped Nanoparticles/Enzyme
Authors: Savin Rémy , Blanck Christian , Benzaamia Nour-Ouda , Boulmedais Fouzia
Published: May 2022

Enzymes/Nanoparticles (NPs) bioconjugates are massively used nowadays to develop thin films for optical and electrochemical biosensors. Nevertheless, their full characterization as a thin coating onto electrodes remains little discussed, in particular the influence of NPs size and enzyme/NPs ratio used in the electrodeposition solution. In this study, GOx (160 kDa) and HRP (44 kDa) were used in association with tannic acid capped gold NPs (a series with sizes from 7 to 40 nm) to electrodeposit biosensor coatings, sensitive towards glucose and H2O2, respectively. The electrodeposition process was based on a mussel-inspired electro-crosslinking between gallol moieties of tannic acid (at the surface of NPs) and amine moieties of the enzymes. On one hand, the sensitivity of the GOx/NPs coatings depends strongly on the NP size and the enzyme/NPs molar ratio of the electrodeposition solution. An optimal sensitivity was obtained by electrodeposition of 11 nm NPs at a GOx/NPs molar ratio close to the theoretical value of the enzyme monolayer. On the other hand, a modest influence of the NPs size was found on the sensitivity in the case of the electrodeposited HRP/NPs coatings, reaching a plateau at the HRP/NPs molar ratio close to the value of the theoretical enzyme monolayer. In both cases, the enzyme/NPs molar ratio played a role in the sensitivity. To fully understand the parameters driving the biosensor sensitivity, a comprehensive evaluation of the colloidal state of the bioconjugates is proposed here.
Porphyrins as Chelating Agents for Molecular Imaging in Nuclear Medicine
Authors: Pyrzynska Krystyna , Kilian Krzysztof , Pęgier Mateusz
Published: May 2022

Porphyrin ligands, showing a significant affinity for cancer cells, also have the ability to chelate metallic radioisotopes to form potential diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals. They can be applied in single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) to evaluate metabolic changes in the human body for tumor diagnostics. The aim of this paper is to present a short overview of the main metallic radionuclides complexed by porphyrin ligands and used in these techniques. These chelation reactions are discussed in terms of the complexation conditions and kinetics and the complex stability.
Design, Cytotoxicity and Antiproliferative Activity of 4-Amino-5-methyl-thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine-6-carboxylates against MFC-7 and MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Mavrova Anelia , Dimov Stephan , Sulikovska Inna , Yancheva Denitsa , Iliev Ivan , Tsoneva Iana , Staneva Galya , Nikolova Biliana
Published: May 2022

Novel 4-amino-thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine-6-carboxylates substituted at the second position were prepared by cyclocondensation of 2-amino-3-cyano-thiophene and aryl nitriles in an acidic medium. The design of the target compounds was based on structural optimization. The derivatives thus obtained were tested in vitro against human and mouse cell lines. The examination of the compound effects on BLAB 3T3 and MFC-10A cells showed that they are safe, making them suitable for subsequent experiments to establish their antitumor activity. The photoirritancy factor of the compounds was calculated. Using the MTT test, the antiproliferative activity to MCF-10A, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines was estimated. The best antiproliferative effect in respect to the MCF-7 cell line revealed compound 2 with IC50 4.3 ± 0.11 µg/mL (0.013 µM). The highest selective index with respect to MCF-7 cells was shown by compound 3 (SI = 19.3), and to MDA-MB-231 cells by compound 2 (SI = 3.7). Based on energy analysis, the most stable conformers were selected and optimized by means of density functional theory (DFT). Ligand efficiency, ligand lipophilicity efficiency and the physicochemical parameters of the target 4-amino-thienopyrimidines were determined. The data obtained indicated that the lead compound among the tested substances is compound 2.
Enhanced Antioxidant, Hyaluronidase, and Collagenase Inhibitory Activities of Glutinous Rice Husk Extract by Aqueous Enzymatic Extraction
Authors: Jiamphun Sudarat , Chaiyana Wantida
Published: May 2022

In this research, we aimed to compare the biological activities related to cosmeceutical applications of glutinous rice husk extracted by aqueous enzymatic extraction (AEE) and conventional solvent extraction. Cellulase enzymes were used to assist the extraction process. The vanillic and ferulic acid contents of each extract were investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography, and their antioxidant and anti-aging activities were investigated by spectrophotometric methods. The irritation effects of each extract were investigated by the hen’s egg test on chorioallantoic membrane. The rice husk extract from AEE using 0.5% w/w of cellulase (CE0.5) contained the significantly highest content of vanillic and ferulic acid (p < 0.05), which were responsible for its biological activities. CE0.5 was the most potent antioxidant via radical scavenging activities, and possessed the most potent anti-skin wrinkle effect via collagenase inhibition. Aside from the superior biological activities, the rice husk extracts from AEE were safer than those from solvent extraction, even when 95% v/v ethanol was used. Therefore, AEE is suggested as a green extraction method that can be used instead of the traditional solvent extraction technique given its higher yield and high quality of bioactive compounds. Additionally, CE0.5 is proposed as a potential source of natural antioxidants and anti-aging properties for further development of anti-wrinkle products.
Alkaline Soil Degradation and Crop Safety of 5-Substituted Chlorsulfuron Derivatives
Authors: Wu Lei , Hua Xue-Wen , Li Yong-Hong , Wang Zhong-Wen , Zhou Sha , Li Zheng-Ming
Published: May 2022

Sulfonylurea herbicides can lead to serious weed resistance due to their long degradation times and large-scale applications. This is especially true for chlorsulfuron, a widely used acetolactate synthase inhibitor used around the world. Its persistence in soil often affects the growth of crop seedlings in the following crop rotation, and leads to serious environmental pollution all over the world. Our research goal is to obtain chlorsulfuron-derived herbicides with high herbicidal activities, fast degradation times, as well as good crop safety. On account of the slow natural degradation of chlorsulfuron in alkaline soil, based on the previously reported results in acidic soil, the degradation behaviours of 5-substituted chlorsulfuron analogues (L101–L107) were investigated in a soil with pH 8.39. The experimental data indicated that 5-substituted chlorsulfuron compounds could accelerate degradation rates in alkaline soil, and thus, highlighted the potential for rational controllable degradation in soil. The degradation rates of these chlorsulfuron derivatives were accelerated by 1.84–77.22-fold, compared to chlorsulfuron, and exhibited excellent crop safety in wheat and corn (through pre-emergence treatment). In combination with bioassay activities, acidic and alkaline soil degradation, and crop safety, it was concluded that compounds L104 and L107, with ethyl or methyl groups, are potential green sulfonylurea herbicides for pre-emergence treatment on wheat and corn. This paper provides a reference for the further design of new sulfonylurea herbicides with high herbicidal activity, fast, controllable degradation rates, and high crop safety.
Updated Pharmacological Effects, Molecular Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Potential of Natural Product Geniposide
Authors: Liu Liping , Wu Qin , Chen Yuping , Gu Guoxiang , Gao Runan , Peng Bo , Wang Yue , Li Anbang , Guo Jipeng , Xu Xinru , Shao Xiaochen , Li Lingxing , Shen Ya , Sun Jihu
Published: May 2022

At present, the potential of natural products in new drug development has attracted more and more scientists’ attention, and natural products have become an important source for the treatment of various diseases or important lead compounds. Geniposide, as a novel iridoid glycoside compound, is an active natural product isolated from the herb Gardenia jasminoides Ellis (GJ) for the first time; it is also the main active component of GJ. Recent studies have found that geniposide has multiple pharmacological effects and biological activities, including hepatoprotective activity, an anti-osteoporosis effect, an antitumor effect, an anti-diabetic effect, ananti-myocardial dysfunction effect, a neuroprotective effect, and other protective effects. In this study, the latest research progress of the natural product geniposide is systematically described, and the pharmacological effects, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of geniposide are also summarized and discussed comprehensively. We also emphasize the major pathways modulated by geniposide, offering new insights into the pharmacological effects of geniposide as a promising drug candidate for multiple disorders.
Antibacterial Effects of Commiphora gileadensis Methanolic Extract on Wound Healing
Authors: Alhazmi Ayman , Aldairi Abdullah F. , Alghamdi Ahmad , Alomery Anas , Mujalli Abdulrahman , Obaid Ahmad A. , Farrash Wesam F. , Allahyani Mamdouh , Halawani Ibrahim , Aljuaid Abdulelah , Alharbi Sarah A. , Almehmadi Mazen , Alharbi Moodi S. , Khan Anmar A. , Jastaniah Maisam A. , Alghamdi Abdulrhman
Published: May 2022

Commiphora gileadensis (CG) is a small tree distributed throughout the Middle East. It was traditionally used in perfumes in countries in this area. In Saudi Arabia, it was used to treat wounds burns and as an antidote to scorpion stings. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and cutaneous wound healing efficiency of the CG extracts using microbiological tests, rate of wound contraction and histopathological changes. CG plant were extracted using the methanol extraction technique; then, the methanolic extract was characterized using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC–MS). Afterwards, a six-millimetre (mm) excision wound was induced in 60 male Balb/c mice. Mice were classified into two classes; each class consisted of three groups of 10 mice. In the non-infected wound class, the group I was assigned as control and received normal saline. Group II received gentamicin treatment, and group III treated with CG-methanolic extract. In the Staphylococcus aureus-infected class, group IV received normal saline, and groups V and VI were treated with gentamicin and CG-methanolic extract, respectively. The colonization of infected wounds was determined using colony-forming units (CFUs), and the percentage of wound contraction was measured in all groups. Finally, the histopathologic semi-quantitative determination of wound healing was evaluated by inflammatory cell infiltration, the presence of collagen fibres and granulation tissue, and the grade of re-epithelization. Composition analysis of the methanolic extract confirmed the presence of a high amount of ceramide (69%) and, to a lesser extent, hexosylceramide (18%) and phosphatidylethanolamine (7%) of the total amount. Additionally, there was a statistically significant difference between the percentage of wound contraction in the CG-treated and control groups in both Staphylococcus aureus-infected and non-infected wounds (p < 0.01). The colonization of the infected wounds was lower in the group treated with CG than in the control group (p < 0.01). In both non-infected and infected wounds, the CG-treated group showed significant statistical differences in inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen fibres, re-epithelization and granulation tissue formation compared with the control group (p < 0.01). The CG extract possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that induce wound healing.
Metal-Doped Graphitic Carbon Nitride Nanomaterials for Photocatalytic Environmental Applications—A Review
Authors: Palani Geetha , Apsari Retna , Hanafiah Marlia M. , Venkateswarlu Katta , Lakkaboyana Sivarama Krishna , Kannan Karthik , Shivanna Anilkumar Thaghalli , Idris Abubakr M. , Yadav Chappidi Hazarathaiah
Published: May 2022

In the current world situation, population and industrial growth have become major problems for energy and environmental concerns. Extremely noxious pollutants such as heavy metal ions, dyes, antibiotics, phenols, and pesticides in water are the main causes behind deprived water quality leading to inadequate access to clean water. In this connection, graphite carbon nitride (GCN or g-C3N4) a nonmetallic polymeric material has been utilized extensively as a visible-light-responsive photocatalyst for a variety of environmental applications. This review focuses on recent developments in the design and photocatalytic applications of metal-doped GCN-based nanomaterials in CO2 photoreduction, water splitting toward hydrogen production, bacterial disinfection, and organic pollutant degradation. Additionally, this review discusses various methods of using GCN-based materials to optimize dye sensitization, metal deposition, ion doping, and their environmental applications.
Gold Ion Beam Milled Gold Zero-Mode Waveguides
Authors: Messina Troy C. , Srijanto Bernadeta R. , Collier Charles Patrick , Kravchenko Ivan I. , Richards Christopher I.
Published: May 2022

Zero-mode waveguides (ZMWs) are widely used in single molecule fluorescence microscopy for their enhancement of emitted light and the ability to study samples at physiological concentrations. ZMWs are typically produced using photo or electron beam lithography. We report a new method of ZMW production using focused ion beam (FIB) milling with gold ions. We demonstrate that ion-milled gold ZMWs with 200 nm apertures exhibit similar plasmon-enhanced fluorescence seen with ZMWs fabricated with traditional techniques such as electron beam lithography.
Mg12O12 and Be12O12 Nanocages as Sorbents and Sensors for H2S and SO2 Gases: A Theoretical Approach
Authors: Badran H. , Eid Kh. , Baskoutas Sotirios , Ammar H.
Published: May 2022

Theoretical calculations based on the Density Functional Theory (DFT) have been performed to investigate the interaction of H2S as well SO2 gaseous molecules at the surfaces of Be12O12 and Mg12O12 nano-cages. The results show that a Mg12O12 nano-cage is a better sorbent than a Be12O12 nano-cage for the considered gases. Moreover, the ability of SO2 gas to be adsorbed is higher than that of H2S gas. The HOMO–LUMO gap (Eg) of Be12O12 nano-cage is more sensitive to SO2 than H2S adsorption, while the Eg value of Mg12O12 nano-cage reveals higher sensitivity to H2S than SO2 adsorption. The molecular dynamic calculations show that the H2S molecule cannot be retained at the surface of a Be12O12 nano-cage within 300–700 K and cannot be retained on a Mg12O12 nano-cage at 700 K, while the SO2 molecule can be retained at the surfaces of Be12O12 and Mg12O12 nano-cages up to 700 K. Moreover, the thermodynamic calculations indicate that the reactions between H2S as well SO2 with Be12O12 and Mg12O12 nano-cages are exothermic. Our results suggest that we can use Be12O12 and Mg12O12 nano-cages as sorbents as well as sensors for H2S and SO2 gases.
Bimodal Interventional Instrument Markers for Magnetic Particle Imaging and Magnetic Resonance Imaging—A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Wegner Franz , Lüdtke-Buzug Kerstin , Cremers Sjef , Friedrich Thomas , Sieren Malte M. , Haegele Julian , Koch Martin A. , Saritas Emine U. , Borm Paul , Buzug Thorsten M. , Barkhausen Joerg , Ahlborg Mandy
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this work was to develop instrument markers that are visible in both magnetic particle imaging (MPI) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The instrument markers were based on two different magnetic nanoparticle types (synthesized in-house KLB and commercial Bayoxide E8706). Coatings containing one of both particle types were fabricated and measured with a magnetic particle spectrometer (MPS) to estimate their MPI performance. Coatings based on both particle types were then applied on a segment of a nonmetallic guidewire. Imaging experiments were conducted using a commercial, preclinical MPI scanner and a preclinical 1 tesla MRI system. MPI image reconstruction was performed based on system matrices measured with dried KLB and Bayoxide E8706 coatings. The bimodal markers were clearly visible in both methods. They caused circular signal voids in MRI and areas of high signal intensity in MPI. Both the signal voids as well as the areas of high signal intensity were larger than the real marker size. Images that were reconstructed with a Bayoxide E8706 system matrix did not show sufficient MPI signal. Instrument markers with bimodal visibility are essential for the perspective of monitoring cardiovascular interventions with MPI/MRI hybrid systems.
Increased Arctic NO3− Availability as a Hydrogeomorphic Consequence of Permafrost Degradation and Landscape Drying
Authors: Arendt Carli A. , Heikoop Jeffrey M. , Newman Brent D. , Wilson Cathy J. , Wainwright Haruko , Kumar Jitendra , Andersen Christian G. , Wales Nathan A. , Dafflon Baptiste , Cherry Jessica , Wullschleger Stan D.
Published: May 2022

Climate-driven permafrost thaw alters the strongly coupled carbon and nitrogen cycles within the Arctic tundra, influencing the availability of limiting nutrients including nitrate (NO3−). Researchers have identified two primary mechanisms that increase nitrogen and NO3− availability within permafrost soils: (1) the ‘frozen feast’, where previously frozen organic material becomes available as it thaws, and (2) ‘shrubification’, where expansion of nitrogen-fixing shrubs promotes increased soil nitrogen. Through the synthesis of original and previously published observational data, and the application of multiple geospatial approaches, this study investigates and highlights a third mechanism that increases NO3− availability: the hydrogeomorphic evolution of polygonal permafrost landscapes. Permafrost thaw drives changes in microtopography, increasing the drainage of topographic highs, thus increasing oxic conditions that promote NO3− production and accumulation. We extrapolate relationships between NO3− and soil moisture in elevated topographic features within our study area and the broader Alaskan Coastal Plain and investigate potential changes in NO3− availability in response to possible hydrogeomorphic evolution scenarios of permafrost landscapes. These approximations indicate that such changes could increase Arctic tundra NO3− availability by ~250–1000%. Thus, hydrogeomorphic changes that accompany continued permafrost degradation in polygonal permafrost landscapes will substantially increase soil pore water NO3− availability and boost future fertilization and productivity in the Arctic.
Lentils and Yeast Fibers: A New Strategy to Mitigate Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) Strain H10407 Virulence?
Authors: Sauvaitre Thomas , Van Herreweghen Florence , Delbaere Karen , Durif Claude , Van Landuyt Josefien , Fadhlaoui Khaled , Huille Ségolène , Chaucheyras-Durand Frédérique , Etienne-Mesmin Lucie , Blanquet-Diot Stéphanie , Van de Wiele Tom
Published: May 2022

Dietary fibers exhibit well-known beneficial effects on human health, but their anti-infectious properties against enteric pathogens have been poorly investigated. Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is a major food-borne pathogen that causes acute traveler’s diarrhea. Its virulence traits mainly rely on adhesion to an epithelial surface, mucus degradation, and the secretion of two enterotoxins associated with intestinal inflammation. With the increasing burden of antibiotic resistance worldwide, there is an imperious need to develop novel alternative strategies to control ETEC infections. This study aimed to investigate, using complementary in vitro approaches, the inhibitory potential of two dietary-fiber-containing products (a lentil extract and yeast cell walls) against the human ETEC reference strain H10407. We showed that the lentil extract decreased toxin production in a dose-dependent manner, reduced pro-inflammatory interleukin-8 production, and modulated mucus-related gene induction in ETEC-infected mucus-secreting intestinal cells. We also report that the yeast product reduced ETEC adhesion to mucin and Caco-2/HT29-MTX cells. Both fiber-containing products strengthened intestinal barrier function and modulated toxin-related gene expression. In a complex human gut microbial background, both products did not elicit a significant effect on ETEC colonization. These pioneering data demonstrate the promising role of dietary fibers in controlling different stages of the ETEC infection process.
Association of Dietary Fish and n-3 Unsaturated Fatty Acid Consumption with Diabetic Nephropathy from a District Hospital in Northern Taiwan
Authors: Lin Shih-Ping , Chen Chiao-Ming , Wang Kang-Ling , Wu Kun-Lin , Li Sing-Chung
Published: May 2022

Nephropathy caused by diabetes mellitus (DM) is the main cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). To understand the association of dietary intake with renal function indicators among patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN), this cross-sectional study was conducted at the dietetic consultation clinic of the Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital in Taiwan. In total, 317 participants were recruited for this study. Patients with diabetes who had a urinary albumin–creatinine ratio (UACR) of ≥30 mg/g were defined as having DN. The anthropometric characteristics, blood biochemistry, and renal function of the participants were assessed. Furthermore, a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire (SQFFQ) was administered to investigate the dietary intake of the participants in the DM and DN groups. The result showed that participants in the DN group were older, had longer diabetes duration and poorer glycemic control and renal function than those in the DM group. Logistic regression models revealed that intake of high-fat marine fishes had the lowest odds ratio (OR) for DN risk compared with other fishes (OR: 0.868; 95% CI: 0.781–0.965, p = 0.009). Shellfish, soybean products, and skim milk also provided better protective effects to decrease the risk of DN. A further analysis of polyunsaturated fatty acids revealed that Σn-3 PUFAs significantly reduced DN risk, while Σn-6 PUFAs did not, especially EPA (OR: 0.821; 95% CI: 0.688–0.979, p = 0.029) and DHA (OR: 0.903; 95% CI: 0.823–0.992, p = 0.033) regardless of whether the variables were adjusted, including diabetes duration, age, and HbA1c. Our findings suggest that a diet that incorporates high-fat fish, shellfish, soybean products, and a lower Σn-6/Σn-3 ratio can mitigate DN risk.
Nutritional Intake and Training Load of Professional Female Football Players during a Mid-Season Microcycle
Authors: Leão César , Mendes António Pedro , Custódio Catarina , Ng Mafalda , Ribeiro Nuno , Loureiro Nuno , Araújo João Pedro , Afonso José , Rocha-Rodrigues Sílvia , Tavares Francisco
Published: May 2022

Football (soccer) is a high-intensity intermittent sport with large energy demands. In a repeated-measures design, we analysed the nutritional intake and training load of fourteen female football players (22.50 ± 4.38 y; 57.23 ± 8.61 kg; 164 ± 6.00 cm; 18.33 ± 2.48% of fat mass and 23.71 ± 2.51 kg of muscle mass) competing in the highest female Football Portuguese League across a typical mid-season microcycle. The microcycle had one match day (MD), one recovery session (two days after the MD, MD+2), three training sessions (MD-3, MD-2, MD-1) and two rest days (MD+1). Energy intake and CHO (g.kg.BW−1) intake were lower on the days before the competition (MD+2, MD-3, MD-2 and MD-1 vs. MD; p < 0.05; ES: 0.60–1.30). Total distance, distance covered at high-speed running (HSRD) and the high metabolic distance load (HMLD) were lower on MD+2, MD-3 and MD-1 compared with MD (p < 0.05; ES: <0.2–5.70). The internal training load was lower in all training sessions before the competition (MD+2, MD-3, MD-2 and MD-1 vs. MD; p ≤ 0.01; ES: 1.28–5.47). Despite the small sample size and a single assessment in time, the results suggest that caloric and CHO intake were below the recommendations and were not structured based on the physical requirements for training sessions or match days.
Effect of Paternal Diet on Spermatogenesis and Offspring Health: Focus on Epigenetics and Interventions with Food Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Pascoal Gabriela de Freitas Laiber , Geraldi Marina Vilar , Maróstica Mário Roberto , Ong Thomas Prates
Published: May 2022

Infertility is a growing public health problem. Consumption of antioxidant bioactive food compounds (BFCs) that include micronutrients and non-nutrients has been highlighted as a potential strategy to protect against oxidative and inflammatory damage in the male reproductive system induced by obesity, alcohol, and toxicants and, thus, improve spermatogenesis and the fertility parameters. Paternal consumption of such dietary compounds could not only benefit the fathers but their offspring as well. Studies in the new field of paternal origins of health and disease show that paternal malnutrition can alter sperm epigenome, and this can alter fetal development and program an increased risk of metabolic diseases and breast cancer in adulthood. BFCs, such as ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, polyunsaturated fatty acids, trace elements, carnitines, N-acetylcysteine, and coenzyme Q10, have been shown to improve male gametogenesis, modulate epigenetics of germ cells, and the epigenetic signature of the offspring, restoring offspring metabolic health induced by stressors during early life. This indicates that, from a father’s perspective, preconception is a valuable window of opportunity to start potential nutritional interventions with these BFCs to maximize sperm epigenetic integrity and promote adequate fetal growth and development, thus preventing chronic disease in adulthood.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil Reduces Gut Permeability and Metabolic Endotoxemia in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Bartimoccia Simona , Cammisotto Vittoria , Nocella Cristina , Del Ben Maria , D’Amico Alessandra , Castellani Valentina , Baratta Francesco , Pignatelli Pasquale , Loffredo Lorenzo , Violi Francesco , Carnevale Roberto
Published: May 2022

Background: Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) improves post-prandial glycemia, but the underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. We tested the hypothesis that EVOO improves post-prandial glycemia by reducing gut permeability-derived low-grade endotoxemia. Methods: Serum levels of lipopolysaccharides (LPS), zonulin, a marker of gut permeability, glucose, insulin and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1) were measured in 20 patients with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and 20 healthy subjects (HS) matched for sex and age. The same variables were measured in IFG patients (n = 20) and HS (n = 20) before and after a Mediterranean diet with 10 g EVOO added or not (n = 20) or in IFG patients (n = 20) before and after intake of 40 g chocolate with EVOO added or not. Results: Compared to HS, IFG had higher levels of LPS and zonulin. In HS, meal intake was associated with a significant increase of blood glucose, insulin, and GLP1 with no changes of blood LPS and zonulin. Two hours after a meal intake containing EVOO, IFG patients showed a less significant increase of blood glucose, a more marked increase of blood insulin and GLP1 and a significant reduction of LPS and zonulin compared to IFG patients not given EVOO. Correlation analysis showed that LPS directly correlated with blood glucose and zonulin and inversely with blood insulin. Similar findings were detected in IFG patients given a chocolate added or without EVOO. Conclusion: Addition of EVOO to a Mediterranean diet or chocolate improves gut permeability and low-grade endotoxemia.
Comparative Whole Genome Analysis of an Anaplasma phagocytophilum Strain Isolated from Norwegian Sheep
Authors: Crosby Francy L. , Eskeland Sveinung , Bø-Granquist Erik G. , Munderloh Ulrike G. , Price Lisa D. , Al-Khedery Basima , Stuen Snorre , Barbet Anthony F.
Published: May 2022

Anaplasma phagocytophilum is a Gram-negative obligate intracellular tick-borne alphaproteobacteria (family Anaplasmatacea, order Rickettsiales) with a worldwide distribution. In Norway, tick borne fever (TBF), caused by A. phagocytophilum, presents a major challenge in sheep farming. Despite the abundance of its tick vector, Ixodes ricinus, and A. phagocytophilum infections in wild and domestic animals, reports of infections in humans are low compared with cases in the U.S. Although A. phagocytophilum is genetically diverse and complex infections (co-infection and superinfection) in ruminants and other animals are common, the underlying genetic basis of intra-species interactions and host-specificity remains unexplored. Here, we performed whole genome comparative analysis of a newly cultured Norwegian A. phagocytophilum isolate from sheep (ApSheep_NorV1) with 27 other A. phagocytophilum genome sequences derived from human and animal infections worldwide. Although the compared strains are syntenic, there is remarkable genetic diversity between different genomic loci including the pfam01617 superfamily that encodes the major, neutralization-sensitive, surface antigen Msp2/p44. Blast comparisons between the msp2/p44 pseudogene repertoires from all the strains showed high divergence between U. S. and European strains and even between two Norwegian strains. Based on these comparisons, we concluded that in ruminants, complex infections can be attributed to infection with strains that differ in their msp2/p44 repertoires, which has important implications for pathogen evolution and vaccine development. We also present evidence for integration of rickettsial DNA into the genome of ISE6 tick cells.
Effect of Escitalopram on the Number of DCX-Positive Cells and NMUR2 Receptor Expression in the Rat Hippocampus under the Condition of NPSR Receptor Blockade
Authors: Piwowarczyk-Nowak Aneta , Pałasz Artur , Suszka-Świtek Aleksandra , Błaszczyk Iwona , Bogus Katarzyna , Łasut-Szyszka Barbara , Krzystanek Marek , Worthington John J.
Published: May 2022

Background: Neuropeptide S (NPS) is a multifunctional regulatory factor that exhibits a potent anxiolytic activity in animal models. However, there are no reports dealing with the potential molecular interactions between the activity of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and NPS signaling, especially in the context of adult neurogenesis and the expression of noncanonical stress-related neuropeptides such as neuromedin U (NMU). The present work therefore focused on immunoexpression of neuromedin U receptor 2 (NMUR2) and doublecortin (DCX) in the rat hippocampus after acute treatment with escitalopram and in combination with selective neuropeptide S receptor (NPSR) blockade. Methods: Studies were carried out on adult, male Sprague-Dawley rats that were divided into five groups: animals injected with saline (control) and experimental individuals treated with escitalopram (at single dose 10 mg/kg daily), escitalopram + SHA-68, a selective NPSR antagonist (at single dose 40 mg/kg), SHA-68 alone, and corresponding vehicle control. All animals were sacrificed under halothane anaesthesia. The whole hippocampi were quickly excised, fixed, and finally sliced for general qualitative immunohistochemical assessment of the NPSR and NMUR2 expression. The number of immature neurons was enumerated using immunofluorescent detection of doublecortin (DCX) expression within the subgranular zone (SGZ). Results: Acute escitalopram administration affects the number of DCX and NMUR2-expressing cells in the adult rat hippocampus. A decreased number of DCX-expressing neuroblasts after treatment with escitalopram was augmented by SHA-68 coadministration. Conclusions: Early pharmacological effects of escitalopram may be at least partly connected with local NPSR-related alterations of neuroblast maturation in the rat hippocampus. Escitalopram may affect neuropeptide and DCX-expression starting even from the first dose. Adult neurogenesis may be regulated via paracrine neuropeptide S and NMU-related signaling.
Preclinical Assessment of Nebulized Surfactant Delivered through Neonatal High Flow Nasal Cannula Respiratory Support
Authors: Ricci Francesca , Mersanne Arianna , Storti Matteo , Nutini Marcello , Pellicelli Giulia , Carini Angelo , Milesi Ilaria , Lombardini Marta , Dellacà Raffaele L. , Thomson Merran A. , Murgia Xabier , Lavizzari Anna , Bianco Federico , Salomone Fabrizio
Published: May 2022

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is a non-invasive respiratory support (NRS) modality to treat premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). The delivery of nebulized surfactant during NRS would represent a truly non-invasive method of surfactant administration and could reduce NRS failure rates. However, the delivery efficiency of nebulized surfactant during HFNC has not been evaluated in vitro or in animal models of respiratory distress. We, therefore, performed first a benchmark study to compare the surfactant lung dose delivered by commercially available neonatal nasal cannulas (NCs) and HFNC circuits commonly used in neonatal intensive care units. Then, the pulmonary effect of nebulized surfactant delivered via HFNC was investigated in spontaneously breathing rabbits with induced respiratory distress. The benchmark study revealed the surfactant lung dose to be relatively low for both types of NCs tested (Westmed NCs 0.5 ± 0.45%; Fisher & Paykel NCs 1.8 ± 1.9% of a nominal dose of 200 mg/kg of Poractant alfa). The modest lung doses achieved in the benchmark study are compatible with the lack of the effect of nebulized surfactant in vivo (400 mg/kg), where arterial oxygenation and lung mechanics did not improve and were significantly worse than the intratracheal instillation of surfactant. The results from the present study indicate a relatively low lung surfactant dose and negligible effect on pulmonary function in terms of arterial oxygenation and lung mechanics. This negligible effect can, for the greater part, be explained by the high impaction of aerosol particles in the ventilation circuit and upper airways due to the high air flows used during HFNC.
Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Linker-Optimised PSMA-Targeting Radioligands
Authors: Lundmark Fanny , Olanders Gustav , Rinne Sara Sophie , Abouzayed Ayman , Orlova Anna , Rosenström Ulrika
Published: May 2022

Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is overexpressed in the majority of prostate cancer cells and is considered to be an important target for the molecular imaging and therapy of prostate cancer. Herein, we present the design, synthesis, and evaluation of 11 PSMA-binding radioligands with modified linker structures, focusing on the relationship between molecular structure and targeting properties. The linker design was based on 2-naphthyl-L-alanine-tranexamic acid, the linker structure of PSMA-617. X-ray crystal-structure analysis of PSMA and structure-based design were used to generate the linker modifications, suggesting that substitution of tranexamic acid could lead to interactions with Phe546, Trp541, and Arg43 within the binding cavity. After synthesis through SPPS, analogues were labelled with indium-111 and evaluated in vitro for their specific binding, affinity, and cellular retention. Selected compounds were further evaluated in vivo in PSMA-expressing tumour-bearing mice. Based on the results, 2-naphthyl-L-alanine appears to be crucial for good targeting properties, whereas tranexamic acid could be replaced by other substituents. [111In]In-BQ7859, consisting of a 2-naphthyl-L-alanine-L-tyrosine linker, demonstrated favourable targeting properties. The substitution of tranexamic acid for L-tyrosine in the linker led to an improved tumour-to-blood ratio, highlighting [111In]In-BQ7859 as a promising PSMA-targeting radioligand.
Anti-Cancerous Potential of Polysaccharides Derived from Wheat Cell Culture
Authors: Murtazina Alima , Ruiz Alcala Gloria , Jimenez-Martinez Yaiza , Marchal Juan Antonio , Tarabayeva Anel , Bitanova Elmira , McDougall Gordon , Bishimbayeva Nazira , Boulaiz Houria
Published: May 2022

There is a global need to discover effective anti-cancerous compounds from natural sources. Cultivated wheat cells can be a valuable source of non-toxic or low toxic plant-derived polysaccharides. In this study, we evaluated the anti-cancer ability of seven fractions of wheat cell culture polysaccharides (WCCPSs) in the HCT-116 colon cancer cell line. Almost all (6/7) fractions had an inhibitory effect on the proliferation of colon cancer cells, and two fractions (A-b and A-f) had considerable therapeutic indexes. The WCCPS fractions induced cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase and induced different rates of apoptosis (≤48%). Transmission and scanning electron microscopy revealed that WCCPS fractions caused apoptotic changes in the nucleus and cytoplasm, including damage to mitochondria and external morphological signs of apoptosis. In addition, the WCCPSs induced an increase in the levels of Bax, cytochrome c, and caspases 8 and 3, indicating that cell death progressed through intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis. Furthermore, some fractions caused a significant decrease of c-Myc, b-catenin, NFkB2, and HCAM (CD 44) levels, indicating enhanced cell differentiation. Thus, for the first time, our results provide a proof of concept of the anti-cancer capacity of WCCPS fractions in colorectal cancer.
Development of an LNP-Encapsulated mRNA-RBD Vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 and Its Variants
Authors: Liu Cong , Rcheulishvili Nino , Shen Zhigao , Papukashvili Dimitri , Xie Fengfei , Wang Ziqian , Wang Xingyun , He Yunjiao , Wang Peng George
Published: May 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is undoubtedly the most challenging pandemic in the current century and remains a global health emergency. As the number of COVID-19 cases in the world is on the rise and variants continue to emerge, there is an urgent need for vaccines. Among all immunization approaches, mRNA vaccines have demonstrated more promising results in response to this challenge. Herein, we designed an mRNA-based vaccine encoding the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). Intramuscular (i.m.) administration of the mRNA-RBD vaccine elicited broad-spectrum neutralizing antibodies and cellular responses against not only the wild-type SARS-CoV-2 virus but also Delta and Omicron variants. These results indicated that two doses of mRNA-RBD immunization conferred a strong immune response in mice against the wild-type SARS-CoV-2, while the booster dose provided a sufficient immunity against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants. Taken together, the three-dose regimen strategy of the mRNA-RBD vaccine proposed in the present study appears to be a promising reference for the development of mRNA vaccines targeting SARS-CoV-2 variants.