bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Gut Microbes Nurture Intestinal Stem Cells: A Drosophila Perspective
Authors: Neophytou Constantina , Pitsouli Chrysoula
Published: February 2022

Host-microbiota interactions are key modulators of host physiology and behavior. Accumulating evidence suggests that the complex interplay between microbiota, diet and the intestine controls host health. Great emphasis has been given on how gut microbes have evolved to harvest energy from the diet to control energy balance, host metabolism and fitness. In addition, many metabolites essential for intestinal homeostasis are mainly derived from gut microbiota and can alleviate nutritional imbalances. However, due to the high complexity of the system, the molecular mechanisms that control host-microbiota mutualism, as well as whether and how microbiota affects host intestinal stem cells (ISCs) remain elusive. Drosophila encompasses a low complexity intestinal microbiome and has recently emerged as a system that might uncover evolutionarily conserved mechanisms of microbiota-derived nutrient ISC regulation. Here, we review recent studies using the Drosophila model that directly link microbiota-derived metabolites and ISC function. This research field provides exciting perspectives for putative future treatments of ISC-related diseases based on monitoring and manipulating intestinal microbiota.
Dependance of Gauge Factor on Micro-Morphology of Sensitive Grids in Resistive Strain Gauges
Authors: Zhao Yinming , Wang Zhigang , Tan Siyang , Liu Yang , Chen Si , Li Yongqian , Hao Qun
Published: February 2022

The effect of micro-morphology of resistive strain gauges on gauge factor was investigated numerically and experimentally. Based on the observed dimensional parameters of various commercial resistive strain gauges, a modeling method had been proposed to reconstruct the rough sidewall on the sensitive grids. Both the amplitude and period of sidewall profiles are normalized by the sensitive grid width. The relative resistance change of the strain gauge model with varying sidewall profiles was calculated. The results indicate that the micro-morphology on the sidewall profile led to the deviation of the relative resistance change and the decrease in gauge factor. To verify these conclusions, two groups of the strain gauge samples with different qualities of sidewall profiles have been manufactured, and both their relative resistance changes and gauge factors were measured by a testing apparatus for strain gauge parameters. It turned out that the experimental results are also consistent with the simulations. Under the loading strain within 1000 μm/m, the average gauge factors of these two groups of samples are 2.126 and 2.106, respectively, the samples with rougher profiles have lower values in gauge factors. The reduction in the gauge factor decreases the sensitivity by 2.0%. Our work shows that the sidewall micro-morphology on sensitive grids plays a role in the change of the gauge factor. The observed phenomena help derive correction methods for strain gauge measurements and predict the measurement errors coming from the local and global reinforcement effects.
Characteristics of Cracking Failure in Microbump Joints for 3D Chip-on-Chip Interconnections under Drop Impact
Authors: Liu Zhen , Fang Mingang , Shi Lei , Gu Yu , Chen Zhuo , Zhu Whenhui
Published: February 2022

With the rapid development of microelectronics packaging and integration, the failure risk of micro-solder joints in packaging structure caused by impact load has been increasingly concerning. However, the failure mechanism and reliability performance of a Cu-pillar-based microbump joint can use little of the existing research on board-level solder joints as reference, due to the downscaling and joint structure evolution. In this study, to investigate the cracking behavior of microbump joints targeted at chip-on-chip (CoC) stacked interconnections, the CoC test samples were subjected to repeated drop tests to reveal the crack morphology. It was found that the crack causing the microbump failure first initiated at the interface between the intermetallic compound (IMC) layer and the solder, propagated along the interface for a certain length, and then deflected into the solder matrix. To further explore the crack propagation mechanism, stress intensity factor (SIF) of the crack tip at the interface between IMC and solder was calculated by contour integral method, and the effects of solder thickness and crack length were also quantitatively analyzed and combined with the crack deflection criterion. By combining the SIF with the fracture toughness of the solder–Ni interface and the solder matrix, a criterion for crack deflecting from the original propagating path was established, which can be used for prediction of critical crack length and deflection angle for the initiation of crack deflection. Finally, the relationship between solder thickness and critical deflection length and deflection angle of main crack was verified by a board level drop test, and the influence of grain structure in solder matrix on actual failure lifetime was briefly discussed.
Terahertz Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs) for 6G Communication Links
Authors: Yang Fengyuan , Pitchappa Prakash , Wang Nan
Published: February 2022

The forthcoming sixth generation (6G) communication network is envisioned to provide ultra-fast data transmission and ubiquitous wireless connectivity. The terahertz (THz) spectrum, with higher frequency and wider bandwidth, offers great potential for 6G wireless technologies. However, the THz links suffers from high loss and line-of-sight connectivity. To overcome these challenges, a cost-effective method to dynamically optimize the transmission path using reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs) is widely proposed. RIS is constructed by embedding active elements into passive metasurfaces, which is an artificially designed periodic structure. However, the active elements (e.g., PIN diodes) used for 5G RIS are impractical for 6G RIS due to the cutoff frequency limitation and higher loss at THz frequencies. As such, various tuning elements have been explored to fill this THz gap between radio waves and infrared light. The focus of this review is on THz RISs with the potential to assist 6G communication functionalities including pixel-level amplitude modulation and dynamic beam manipulation. By reviewing a wide range of tuning mechanisms, including electronic approaches (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) transistors, Schottky diodes, high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs), and graphene), optical approaches (photoactive semiconductor materials), phase-change materials (vanadium dioxide, chalcogenides, and liquid crystals), as well as microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), this review summarizes recent developments in THz RISs in support of 6G communication links and discusses future research directions in this field.
A High-Sensitivity Vacuum Diode Temperature Sensor Based on Barrier-Lowering Effect
Authors: Shen Zhihua , Wang Xiao , Li Qiaoning , Ge Bin , Jiang Linlin , Tian Jinshou , Wu Shengli
Published: February 2022

A new kind of temperature sensor based on a vacuum diode was proposed and numerically studied in this paper. This device operated under different electron emission mechanisms according to the electron density in the vacuum channel. The temperature determination ability of this device was only empowered when working in the electric-field-assisted thermionic emission regime (barrier-lowering effect). The simulated results indicated that the temperature-sensing range of this device was around 273 K–325 K with a supply current of 1 μA. To obtain a linear dependency of voltage on temperature, we designed a proportional-to-absolute-temperature (PTAT) circuit. The mathematic derivation of the PTAT voltage is presented in this study. The temperature-sensing sensitivity was calculated as 7.6 mV/K according to the measured I-U (current versus voltage) characteristic. The structure and principle of the device presented in this paper might provide an alternative method for the study of temperature sensors.
Genome Analysis of Celeribacter sp. PS-C1 Isolated from Sekinchan Beach in Selangor, Malaysia, Reveals Its β-Glucosidase and Licheninase Activities
Authors: Radzlin Nurfatini , Yaakop Amira Suriaty , Goh Kian Mau , Liew Kok Jun , Zakaria Iffah Izzati , Kahar Ummirul Mukminin
Published: February 2022

A halophilic marine bacterial strain, PS-C1, was isolated from Sekinchan beach in Selangor, Malaysia. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strain PS-C1 was associated with the genus Celeribacter. To date, there have been no reports on enzymes from the genus Celeribacter. The present study reports on the cellular features of Celeribacter sp. PS-C1, its annotated genome sequence, and comparative genome analyses of Celeribacter glycoside hydrolase (GH) enzymes. The genome of strain PS-C1 has a size of 3.87 Mbp and a G+C content of 59.10%, and contains 3739 protein-coding genes. Detailed analysis using the Carbohydrate-Active enZYmes (CAZy) database revealed that Celeribacter genomes harboured at least 12 putative genes encoding industrially important GHs that are grouped as cellulases, β-glucanases, hemicellulases, and starch-degrading enzymes. Herein, the potential applications of these enzymes are discussed. Furthermore, the activities of two types of GHs (β-glucosidase and licheninase) in strain PS-C1 were demonstrated. These findings suggest that strain PS-C1 could be a reservoir of novel GH enzymes for lignocellulosic biomass degradation.
Prevalence and Profiles of Antibiotic Resistance Genes mph(A) and qnrB in Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL)-Producing Escherichia coli Isolated from Dairy Calf Feces
Authors: Carey Alexis M. , Capik Sarah F. , Giebel Sarah , Nickodem Colette , Piñeiro Juan M. , Scott Harvey Morgan , Vinasco Javier , Norman Keri N.
Published: February 2022

The use of antibiotics to treat dairy calves may result in multidrug-resistant extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli. This study investigated fluoroquinolone and macrolide resistance genes among ESBL-producing E. coli isolated from dairy calves. Fresh fecal samples from 147 dairy calves across three age groups were enriched to select for ESBL-producing E. coli. Plasmid-mediated fluoroquinolone (qnrB), macrolide (mph(A)), and beta-lactam (blaCTX-M groups 1 and 9) resistance genes were identified by PCR and gel electrophoresis in ESBL-producing E. coli. Beta-lactamase variants and antibiotic resistance genes were characterized for eight isolates by whole-genome sequencing. Seventy-one (48.3%) samples were positive for ESBL-producing E. coli, with 159 (70.4%) isolates identified as blaCTX-M variant group 1 and 67 (29.6%) isolates as blaCTX-M variant group 9. Resistance gene mph(A) was more commonly associated with blaCTX-M variant group 1, while resistance gene qnrB was more commonly associated with variant group 9. E. coli growth was quantified on antibiotic media for 30 samples: 10 from each age group. Significantly higher quantities of ceftriaxone-resistant E. coli were present in the youngest calves. Results indicate the dominant blaCTX-M groups present in ESBL-producing E. coli may be associated with additional qnrB or mph(A) resistance genes and ESBL-producing E. coli is found in higher abundance in younger calves.
The Historical Development of Cultivation Techniques for Methanogens and Other Strict Anaerobes and Their Application in Modern Microbiology
Authors: Hanišáková Nikola , Vítězová Monika , Rittmann Simon K. -M. R.
Published: February 2022

The cultivation and investigation of strictly anaerobic microorganisms belong to the fields of anaerobic microbial physiology, microbiology, and biotechnology. Anaerobic cultivation methods differ from classic microbiological techniques in several aspects. The requirement for special instruments, which are designed to prevent the contact of the specimen with air/molecular oxygen by different means of manipulation, makes this field more challenging for general research compared to working with aerobic microorganisms. Anaerobic microbiological methods are required for many purposes, such as for the isolation and characterization of new species and their physiological examination, as well as for anaerobic biotechnological applications or medical indications. This review presents the historical development of methods for the cultivation of strictly anaerobic microorganisms focusing on methanogenic archaea, anaerobic cultivation methods that are still widely used today, novel methods for anaerobic cultivation, and almost forgotten, but still relevant, techniques.
Characteristics of Mineralization-Forming Fluid and Metallogenic Mechanism for the Mianhuakeng Uranium Deposit in South China: Constraints from In Situ Geochemical Signatures and Sulfur Isotopes of Syn-Mineralization Pyrite and Pitchblende
Authors: Lan Qing , Fu Shanling , Lin Jinrong
Published: February 2022

The Mianhuakeng deposit is the most representative granite-related hydrothermal vein-type uranium deposit in South China; however, the characteristics of the mineralization-forming fluid and metallogenic mechanism are still less constrained. To address the scientific problems above, we investigated the trace element chemistry and sulfur isotope compositions in syn-mineralization pyrite and pitchblende from the Mianhuakeng uranium deposit. The trace element chemistry shows that the mineralization in the Mianhuakeng deposit belongs to an intermediate-to-low temperature hydrothermal system, which is consistent with the homogenization temperature distribution of fluid inclusions. Redox-sensitive elements (such as Co and Se) in syn-mineralization pyrite suggest a reductive nature of the mineralization-forming fluids. The fractionation between light and heavy REE in pitchblende from the Mianhuakeng deposit is most similar to those from the Changjiang pluton. The pronounced negative Eu anomaly is coincident with mineralization-bearing granites. The δ34S values of syn-mineralization pyrite range from −10.2 to −1.4‰, which is higher than those values of pyrite from granites near the studied area and lower than the δ34S values of pyrite from diabase in the ore district. The REE signatures of pitchblende and sulfur isotope composition of syn-mineralization pyrite suggest that the major U source for the Mianhuakeng deposit is most likely the Changjiang pluton, probably accompanied by the incorporation of mantle-derived fluids. The circulations of CO2-rich hydrothermal fluids leached uranium from granite source rocks, especially from the Changjiang pluton. The change of physicochemical conditions of the mineralization-forming fluid resulted in the deposition of the uranium minerals in favorable structural traps to form the hydrothermal vein-type Mianhuakeng uranium deposit.
Integrated Membrane Process Coupled with Metal Sulfide Precipitation to Recover Zinc and Cyanide
Authors: Seriche Gabriel , Quilaqueo Michelle , Barros Lorena , Gim-Krumm Minghai , Cortés Ignacio , Troncoso Elizabeth , Ruby-Figueroa René , Estay Humberto
Published: February 2022

In gold cyanidation plants, which include a zinc cementation process, there is a progressive increase in zinc content in the solution and a higher cyanide concentration in leaching tailings. Consequently, there are opportunities to: (i) recover zinc and cyanide from these solutions, (ii) generate a saleable ZnS by-product, and (iii) reduce cyanide consumption and cyanide concentration in leaching tailings. Previous studies have proposed the use of the SART (Sulfidization, Acidification, Recycling, and Thickening) process for this purpose; however, this process has disadvantages that must be addressed. This study presents the results of the experimental assessment of an alternative process, the SuCy process, which uses an integrated membrane process. The SuCy process is composed of a metal sulfide precipitation coupled with a membrane filtration stage, a membrane contactor step to recover and concentrate cyanide, and a final neutralization and ultrafiltration stage. The flux obtained for zinc sulfide separation was around 0.01 L/m2s, with cyanide recovery of 95% at 60 min, whereas flux for ultrafiltration was 0.22 L/m2s. A comparison with an experimental study of the SART process at laboratory scale showed that the SuCy process could obtain a higher zinc recovery and can reduce the solid–liquid separation equipment by around five times. Therefore, the SuCy process could be a promising alternative for zinc and cyanide recovery in gold cyanidation.
Thermophysical Characterization of Paraffin Wax Based on Mass-Accommodation Methods Applied to a Cylindrical Thermal Energy-Storage Unit
Authors: Silva-Nava Valter , Hernández-Cooper Ernesto M. , Chong-Quero Jesús Enrique , Otero José A.
Published: February 2022

Two mass-accommodation methods are proposed to describe the melting of paraffin wax used as a phase-change material in a centrally heated annular region. The two methods are presented as models where volume changes produced during the phase transition are incorporated through total mass conservation. The mass of the phase-change material is imposed as a constant, which brings an additional equation of motion. Volume changes in a cylindrical unit are pictured in two different ways. On the one hand, volume changes in the radial direction are proposed through an equation of motion where the outer radius of the cylindrical unit is promoted as a dynamical variable of motion. On the other hand, volume changes along the axial symmetry axis of the cylindrical unit are proposed through an equation of motion, where the excess volume of liquid constitutes the dynamical variable. The energy–mass balance at the liquid–solid interface is obtained according to each method of conceiving volume changes. The resulting energy–mass balance at the interface constitutes an equation of motion for the radius of the region delimited by the liquid–solid interface. Subtle differences are found between the equations of motion for the interface. The differences are consistent with mass conservation and local mass balance at the interface. Stationary states for volume changes and the radius of the region delimited by the liquid–solid interface are obtained for each mass-accommodation method. We show that the relationship between these steady states is proportional to the relationship between liquid and solid densities when the system is close to the high melting regime. Experimental tests are performed in a vertical annular region occupied by a paraffin wax. The boundary conditions used in the experimental tests produce a thin liquid layer during a melting process. The experimental results are used to characterize the phase-change material through the proposed models in this work. Finally, the thermodynamic properties of the paraffin wax are estimated by minimizing the quadratic error between the temperature readings within the phase-change material and the temperature field predicted by the proposed model.
Comparison of the Effect of Hydrostatic and Dynamic High Pressure Processing on the Enzymatic Activity and Physicochemical Quality Attributes of ‘Ataulfo’ Mango Nectar
Authors: Uranga-Soto Manuel Alejandro , Vargas-Ortiz Manuel Alejandro , León-Félix Josefina , Heredia José Basilio , Muy-Rangel María Dolores , Chevalier-Lucia Dominique , Picart-Palmade Laetitia
Published: February 2022

The effects of hydrostatic (HHP) and dynamic (HPH) high-pressure treatments on the activity of pectin methylesterase (PME) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) as well as the physicochemical quality attributes of ‘Ataulfo’ mango nectar were assessed. HHP reduced PME relative activity by 28% at 100 MPa for 5 min but increased PPO activity almost five-fold. Contrarily, HPH did not affect PME activity, but PPO was effectively reduced to 10% of residual activity at 300 MPa and at three passes. Color parameters (CIEL*a*b*), °hue, and chroma were differently affected by each type of high-pressure processing technology. The viscosity and fluid behavior were not affected by HHP, however, HPH changed the apparent viscosity at low dynamic pressure levels (100 MPa with one and three passes). The viscosity decreased at high shear rates in nectar samples, showing a shear-thinning effect. The results highlight how different effects can be achieved with each high-pressure technology; thus, selecting the most appropriate system for processing and preserving liquid foods like fruit beverages is recommended.
Metabolite Fingerprinting Based on 1H-NMR Spectroscopy and Liquid Chromatography for the Authentication of Herbal Products
Authors: Riswanto Florentinus Dika Octa , Windarsih Anjar , Lukitaningsih Endang , Rafi Mohamad , Fadzilah Nurrulhidayah A. , Rohman Abdul
Published: February 2022

Herbal medicines (HMs) are regarded as one of the traditional medicines in health care to prevent and treat some diseases. Some herbal components such as turmeric and ginger are used as HMs, therefore the identification and confirmation of herbal use are very necessary. In addition, the adulteration practice, mainly motivated to gain economical profits, may occur by substituting the high price of HMs with lower-priced ones or by addition of certain chemical constituents known as Bahan Kimia Obat (chemical drug ingredients) in Indonesia. Some analytical methods based on spectroscopic and chromatographic methods are developed for the authenticity and confirmation of the HMs used. Some approaches are explored during HMs authentication including single-component analysis, fingerprinting profiles, and metabolomics studies. The absence of reference standards for certain chemical markers has led to exploring the fingerprinting approach as a tool for the authentication of HMs. During fingerprinting-based spectroscopic and chromatographic methods, the data obtained were big, therefore the use of chemometrics is a must. This review highlights the application of fingerprinting profiles using variables of spectral and chromatogram data for authentication in HMs. Indeed, some chemometrics techniques, mainly pattern recognition either unsupervised or supervised, were applied for this purpose.
Striatal Cholinergic Signaling in Time and Space
Authors: Nosaka Dvyne , Wickens Jeffery R.
Published: February 2022

The cholinergic interneurons of the striatum account for a small fraction of all striatal cell types but due to their extensive axonal arborization give the striatum the highest content of acetylcholine of almost any nucleus in the brain. The prevailing theory of striatal cholinergic interneuron signaling is that the numerous varicosities on the axon produce an extrasynaptic, volume-transmitted signal rather than mediating rapid point-to-point synaptic transmission. We review the evidence for this theory and use a mathematical model to integrate the measurements reported in the literature, from which we estimate the temporospatial distribution of acetylcholine after release from a synaptic vesicle and from multiple vesicles during tonic firing and pauses. Our calculations, together with recent data from genetically encoded sensors, indicate that the temporospatial distribution of acetylcholine is both short-range and short-lived, and dominated by diffusion. These considerations suggest that acetylcholine signaling by cholinergic interneurons is consistent with point-to-point transmission within a steep concentration gradient, marked by transient peaks of acetylcholine concentration adjacent to release sites, with potential for faithful transmission of spike timing, both bursts and pauses, to the postsynaptic cell. Release from multiple sites at greater distance contributes to the ambient concentration without interference with the short-range signaling. We indicate several missing pieces of evidence that are needed for a better understanding of the nature of synaptic transmission by the cholinergic interneurons of the striatum.
The Carboxyl Functionalized UiO-66-(COOH)2 for Selective Adsorption of Sr2+
Authors: Gao Yuan , Pan Yinhai , Zhou Zihan , Tian Quanzhi , Jiang Rongli
Published: February 2022

Efficient and selective removal of 90Sr is an important process for the safe use of nuclear energy. Herein, we investigate and assess the Sr2+ adsorption properties of a metal-organic framework UiO-66-(COOH)2 functionalized by non-bonded carboxylic groups. This MOF is an exciting class of free carboxylic functionalized MOFs that combine chemical stability with gas sorption, dye elimination, and conductivity. Specifically, we show that uniformly distributed carboxyl and water stability make it accessible for loading Sr2+ without structural changes. The FTIR spectroscopy, PXRD analysis, XPS, and SEM-EDS studies show excellent stability as well as the strong affinity between -COOH active site and Sr2+. This strong coordination interaction guarantees a high adsorption capacity of 114 mg g−1 within 5 h (pH 5 and 298 K). Combined kinetic and thermodynamic studies show that the surface complexation is strong chemisorption and cost-effective spontaneous process (ΔG = −5.49 kJ mol−1~−2.16 kJ mol−1). The fact that UiO-66-(COOH)2 not only possesses a high adsorption capacity, but also enables selectivity to Sr2+ in the presence of similar radius ions Na+ and K+, prefigures its great potential for the practical treatment of radioactive Sr2+ in polluted water.
Key Ergonomics Requirements and Possible Mechanical Solutions for Augmented Reality Head-Mounted Displays in Surgery
Authors: D’Amato Renzo , Cutolo Fabrizio , Badiali Giovanni , Carbone Marina , Lu Hao , Hogenbirk Harm , Ferrari Vincenzo
Published: February 2022

In the context of a European project, we identified over 150 requirements for the development of an augmented reality (AR) head-mounted display (HMD) specifically tailored to support highly challenging manual surgical procedures. The requirements were established by surgeons from different specialties and by industrial players working in the surgical field who had strong commitments to the exploitation of this technology. Some of these requirements were specific to the project, while others can be seen as key requirements for the implementation of an efficient and reliable AR headset to be used to support manual activities in the peripersonal space. The aim of this work is to describe these ergonomic requirements that impact the mechanical design of the HMDs, the possible innovative solutions to these requirements, and how these solutions have been used to implement the AR headset in surgical navigation. We also report the results of a preliminary qualitative evaluation of the AR headset by three surgeons.
Olfactory Stimulation by Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) Essential Oil Improves Lipid Metabolism and Metabolic Disorders in High Fat-Induced Obese Rats
Authors: Hong Seong Jun , Yoon Sojeong , Jo Seong Min , Jeong Hyangyeon , Youn Moon Yeon , Kim Young Jun , Kim Jae Kyeom , Shin Eui-Cheol
Published: February 2022

In this study, odor components were analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and solid-phase microextraction (SPME), and odor-active compounds (OACs) were identified using GC-olfactometry (GC-O). Among the volatile compounds identified through GC-O, p-anisaldehyde, limonene, estragole, anethole, and trans-anethole elicit the fennel odor. In particular, trans-anethole showed the highest odor intensity and content. Changes in body weight during the experimental period showed decreasing values of fennel essential oil (FEO)-inhaled groups, with both body fat and visceral fat showing decreased levels. An improvement in the body’s lipid metabolism was observed, as indicated by the increased levels of cholesterol and triglycerides and decreased levels of insulin in the FEO-inhaled groups compared to group H. Furthermore, the reduction in systolic blood pressure and pulse through the inhalation of FEO was confirmed. Our results indicated that FEO inhalation affected certain lipid metabolisms and cardiovascular health, which are obesity-related dysfunction indicators. Accordingly, this study can provide basic research data for further research as to protective applications of FEO, as well as their volatile profiles.
Nondairy Probiotic Products: Functional Foods That Require More Attention
Authors: Küçükgöz Kübra , Trząskowska Monika
Published: February 2022

The potential health benefits of probiotics have been illustrated by many studies. However, most functional foods containing probiotics are from dairy sources. This review provides an overview of potential strains and raw materials for nondairy probiotic products together with the role of its in vitro assessment. Probiotic-containing products from raw nondairy materials are known both in terms of quality and nutritional values. The sensory properties of raw plant-based materials are generally improved as a result of fermentation with probiotics. Increased market shares for plant-based probiotic products may also help to curb environmental challenges. The sustainability of this food results from reductions in land use, greenhouse gas emissions, and water use during production. Consuming nondairy probiotic food can be a personal step to contribute to climate change mitigation. Since some people cannot or do not want to eat dairy products, this creates a market gap in the supply of nutritious food. Therefore, the promotion and broader development of these foods are needed. Expanding our knowledge on how to best produce these functional foods and increasing our understanding of their in vivo behaviours are crucial. The latter may be efficiently achieved by utilizing available in vitro digestion systems that reliably recapitulate the in vivo situation without introducing any ethical concerns.
Proteomic Analysis of Sporothrix schenckii Exposed to Oxidative Stress Induced by Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Saucedo-Campa Dulce O. , Martínez-Rocha Ana L. , Ríos-Castro Emmanuel , Alba-Fierro Carlos A. , Escobedo-Bretado Miguel A. , Cuéllar-Cruz Mayra , Ruiz-Baca Estela
Published: February 2022

Sporothrix schenckii modulates the expression of its cell wall proteins (CWPs) in response to reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by the phagocytic cells of the human host, which allows it to evade and escape the immune system. In this study, we performed a comparative proteomic analysis of the CW of S. schenckii after exposure and nonexposure to H2O2. Several CWPs involved in CW remodeling and fungal pathogenesis that modulated their expression in response to this oxidizing agent were identified, as were a number of antioxidant enzymes and atypical CWPs, called moonlighting proteins, such as the Hsp70-5, lipase 1 (Lip1), enolase (Eno), and pyruvate kinase (Pk). Moreover, RT-qPCR assays demonstrated that the transcription of genes HSP70-5, LIP1, ENO, and PK is regulated in response to the oxidant. The results indicated that S. schenckii differentially expressed CWPs to confer protection against ROS upon this fungus. Furthermore, among these proteins, antioxidant enzymes and interestingly, moonlighting-like CWPs play a role in protecting the fungus from oxidative stress (OS), allowing it to infect human host cells.
Repurposing Antifungals for Host-Directed Antiviral Therapy?
Authors: Schloer Sebastian , Goretzko Jonas , Rescher Ursula
Published: February 2022

Because of their epidemic and pandemic potential, emerging viruses are a major threat to global healthcare systems. While vaccination is in general a straightforward approach to prevent viral infections, immunization can also cause escape mutants that hide from immune cell and antibody detection. Thus, other approaches than immunization are critical for the management and control of viral infections. Viruses are prone to mutations leading to the rapid emergence of resistant strains upon treatment with direct antivirals. In contrast to the direct interference with pathogen components, host-directed therapies aim to target host factors that are essential for the pathogenic replication cycle or to improve the host defense mechanisms, thus circumventing resistance. These relatively new approaches are often based on the repurposing of drugs which are already licensed for the treatment of other unrelated diseases. Here, we summarize what is known about the mechanisms and modes of action for a potential use of antifungals as repurposed host-directed anti-infectives for the therapeutic intervention to control viral infections.
Oral Formulation Based on Irbesartan Nanocrystals Improve Drug Solubility, Absorbability, and Efficacy
Authors: Nagai Noriaki , Ogata Fumihiko , Ike Ayari , Shimomae Yurisa , Osako Hanano , Nakazawa Yosuke , Yamamoto Naoki , Kawasaki Naohito
Published: February 2022

We previously reported that the bioavailability (BA) of irbesartan (IRB), a BSC class II drug, was improved by preparing nanocrystalline suspensions. However, nanocrystalline suspensions have chemical and physical instabilities and must be converted into tablets through drying approaches in order to overcome such instabilities. In this study, we attempted to design a molded tablet based on nanocrystalline IRB suspensions (IRB-NP tablet) and investigated the effects of this IRB-NP tablet on blood pressure (BP) in a stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive (SHR-SP) rat. The IRB-NP tablet (with a hardness of 42.6 N) was developed by combining various additives (methylcellulose, 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin HPβCD, D-mannitol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and gum arabic) followed by bead-milling and freeze-drying treatments. The mean particle size in the redispersions of the IRB-NP tablet was approximately 118 nm. The solubility and intestinal absorption of IRB in the IRB-NP tablet were significantly enhanced in comparison with the microcrystalline IRB tablet (IRB-MP tablet), and both solubility and clathrin-dependent endocytosis helped improve the low BA of the IRB. In addition, the BP-reducing effect of the IRB-NP tablet was significantly higher than that of the IRB-MP tablet. These results provide useful information for the preservation of nanocrystalline suspensions of BCS class II drugs, such as IRB.
Progress and Hurdles of Therapeutic Nanosystems against Cancer
Authors: Martín-Contreras Marina , Navarro-Marchal Saúl A. , Peula-García José Manuel , Jódar-Reyes Ana Belén
Published: February 2022

Nanomedicine against cancer, including diagnosis, prevention and treatment, has increased expectations for the solution of many biomedical challenges in the fight against this disease. In recent decades, an exhaustive design of nanosystems with high specificity, sensitivity and selectivity has been achieved due to a rigorous control over their physicochemical properties and an understanding of the nano–bio interface. However, despite the considerable progress that has been reached in this field, there are still different hurdles that limit the clinical application of these nanosystems, which, along with their possible solutions, have been reviewed in this work. Specifically, physiological processes as biological barriers and protein corona formation related to the administration routes, designing strategies to overcome these obstacles, promising new multifunctional nanotherapeutics, and recent clinical trials are presented in this review.
Toltrazuril-Loaded Polymeric Nanocapsules as a Promising Approach for the Preventive Control of Coccidiosis in Poultry
Authors: Baron Lana Flávia , Fonseca Francisco Noé da , Maciag Shaiana Salete , Bellaver Franciana Aparecida Volpato , Ibeli Adriana Mércia Guaratini , Mores Marcos Antônio Zanella , Almeida Gabryelle Furtado de , Guterres Silvia Stanisçuaski , Bastos Ana Paula Almeida , Paese Karina
Published: February 2022

Coccidiosis is a disease caused by intracellular protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria that affect the intestinal tract of poultry. However, strain resistance and drug residue in the carcass have drawn the attention of the productive sector. The nanotechnology can improve the biological effect of drugs, reducing of administered doses and toxic effects. Due to this, toltrazuril-load polymeric nanoparticles based on Eudragit® S100 (NCt) or poly-ε-caprolactone (LNCt) were developed to prevent coccidiosis in broilers. Nanoformulations were produced and showed homogeneous particle diameter distribution in the nanometer range (z-average and D (4.3) < 200 nm), negative zeta potential (<−8.93 mV), drug content ~100%, and encapsulation efficiency >90%. Cell viability assays using avian fibroblasts showed that LNCt presented no relevant toxicity up to 72 h. LNCt was then prophylactically administrated to chicken followed by challenge with Eimeria oocysts. The evaluation of the small intestine and cecum showed that the treatment with LNCt (3.5 mg/kg/day) in drinking water reduced the lesion scores and oocysts excretion, similar to the reference medicine containing toltrazuril (Baycox®, 7 mg/kg/day). The current study shows the potential protective use of nanoencapsulating anticoccidial drugs as a promising approach for the control of coccidiosis in poultry.
Amphiphilic Triazine-Phosphorus Metallodendrons Possessing Anti-Cancer Stem Cell Activity
Authors: Apartsin Evgeny K. , Knauer Nadezhda , Kahlert Ulf Dietrich , Caminade Anne-Marie
Published: February 2022

Dendritic molecules bearing metal complexes in their structure (metallodendrimers and metallodendrons) are considered prospective therapeutic entities. In particular, metallodendrons raise interest as antitumor agents for the treatment of poorly curable or drug-resistant tumors. Herein, we have synthesized amphiphilic triazine-phosphorus dendrons bearing multiple copper (II) or gold (III) complexes on the periphery and a branched hydrophobic fragment at the focal point. Due to their amphiphilic nature, metallodendrons formed single micelles (mean diameter ~9 nm) or multi-micellar aggregates (mean diameter ~60 nm) in a water solution. We have tested the antitumor activity of amphiphilic metallodendrons towards glioblastoma, a malignant brain tumor with a notoriously high level of therapy resistance, as a model disease. The metallodendrons exhibit higher cytotoxic activity towards glioblastoma stem cells (BTSC233, JHH520, NCH644, and SF188 cell lines) and U87 glioblastoma cells (IC50 was 3–6 µM for copper-containing dendron and 11–15 µM for gold-containing dendron) in comparison with temozolomide (IC50 >100 µM)—the clinical standard of care for glioblastoma. Our findings show the potential of metallodendron-based nanoformulations as antitumor entities.
Reflective Practice: Co-Creating Reflective Activities for Pharmacy Students
Authors: Hokanson Kalbie , Breault Rene R. , Lucas Cherie , Charrois Theresa L. , Schindel Theresa J.
Published: February 2022

Reflective practice is important in pharmacy education to support skill development for decision-making, critical thinking, problem-solving, and in continuing professional development and beyond. Despite the importance of reflective practice in higher education and professional practice, reflection assignments are not universally embraced by students. This project was initiated due to recent interest in the co-creation of pharmacy curriculum by students and faculty. The purpose of this project was to develop reflection assignments for pharmacy students. The principles of the analysis, design, development, implementation, evaluation (ADDIE) instructional design framework guided the development of reflection assignment templates for three focus areas: personal development, professional development, and professional identity formation. Templates included background and definitions for these specific focus areas as well as objectives, instructions, guiding questions, assessment methods, and submission requirements. A previously tested assessment rubric was adopted for reflection assignments. Development involved target audience and expert reviews and a trial implementation was held in a year 3 patient care skills course. The co-creation process enriched the experiences of students and faculty involved in it. Future co-creation projects including groups of students, formal evaluation of outcomes, and impact on the program will further support integration of reflective practice in the pharmacy curriculum.
Numerical Simulation of Impregnation Process of Reactive Injection Pultrusion for Glass Fiber/PA6 Composites
Authors: Ding Xueliang , He Quanguo , Yang Qun , Wang Suwei , Chen Ke
Published: February 2022

Pultrusion of thermoplastic composites has been the hotspot of manufacturing high-performance thermoplastic composites in recent years. The optimization of process parameters in the pultrusion usually needed repeated attempts, which wasted lots of manpower and material resources. A numerical simulation method can accelerate the optimization of process parameters. In this work, the impregnation process of reactive injection pultrusion for glass fiber reinforced nylon 6 (GF/PA6) composites was modeled and numerically simulated by a finite element/controlled volume (Fe/CV) method. Based on Darcy’s law, the impregnation process can be regarded as the two-phase flow (liquid resin and air) in porous media (undirectional glass fibers). The distribution of resin flow during the impregnation was explored. The effects of pulling rate and injection pressure on the impregnation time and resin reflux distance were analyzed, and the appropriate range of relevant process parameters was determined. The results showed that increasing the pulling rate can significantly control the reflux distance of resin in the impregnation mold and shorten the impregnation time, but too high a pulling rate would increase the impregnation time. Increasing the injection pressure can greatly shorten the resin impregnation time, but it would significantly increase the resin reflux distance. This work can effectively guide the subsequent optimization of process parameters of reactive injection pultrusion for GF/PA6 composites.
New Technology for Production of Dicyclopentadiene and Methyl-Dicyklopentadiene
Authors: Herink Tomáš , Fulín Petr , Krupka Jiří , Pašek Josef
Published: February 2022

ORLEN Unipetrol’s Steam Cracking unit processes a wide range of hydrocarbons from gases to heavy oils produced in refinery processes. Due to the heavy feedstock, the Steam Cracking unit can produce very valuable hydrocarbons such as cyclopentadiene and dicyclopentadiene in addition to ethylene, propylene and benzene. These hydrocarbons can be obtained and used as very profitable monomers for many other chemical applications. ORLEN Unipetrpol, in cooperation with the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, has developed a technology for the isolation of technical dicyclopentadiene of both medium purity grades and high purity grades. Making DCPD grades will add considerable value to the raw C5 by-product stream from the Steam Cracker pyrolysis gasoline. The capacity of the new existing DCPD unit is expected to be in the range of 20–26 thousand metric tons per year, depending on the derivative product portfolio and purity of the DCPD. The construction of the unit started in September 2020, and production is expected to be launched in the second half of 2022.
Birch Wood Surface Characterization after Treatment with Modified Phenol-Formaldehyde Oligomers
Authors: Grinins Juris , Iesalnieks Mairis , Biziks Vladimirs , Gritane Ineta , Sosins Guntis
Published: February 2022

Phenol-formaldehyde (PF) resins with well-established molecular sizes are promising treatment agents for wood bulk protection. However, due to the presence of hydroxyl groups on the periphery, the PF oligomers tend to absorb the water, which can lead to water penetration into the wood. To overcome this drawback different PF pre-polymers have been chemically modified with different long-chain fatty acid chlorides (FAC) via esterification. To obtain the modified PF (M-PF) resins, the PF pre-polymers with average molecular weight (Mw) from 266 to 884 g/mol were esterified with decanoyl, lauroyl, myristoyl, palmitoyl, and stearoyl chloride in pyridine as the reaction medium. Silver birch (Betula pendula) wood specimens (15 × 70 × 150 mm3) were coated with M-PF pre-polymer 5% (w/w) solutions in tetrahydrofuran (THF), and hydrophobic properties of treated birch wood specimens were evaluated using surface contact angle (CA) measurements of water droplets. For all M-PF resin-treated specimens, CA was almost 2–2.5 times higher than for untreated wood (45°) and it remained 80–125° after 60 s. The aging properties of M-PF resin-coated birch wood were analyzed using artificial weathering with ultraviolet (UV) light and combination of both UV and water spray. Results clearly confirm, that the hydrophobic properties of M-PF-treated wood has short-term character and will gradually disappear during long-term application in outdoor conditions.
In Situ Growth of Silver Nanoparticles on Chitosan Matrix for the Synthesis of Hybrid Electrospun Fibers: Analysis of Microstructural and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Santiago-Castillo Karina , Torres-Huerta Aidé Minerva , del Ángel-López Deyanira , Domínguez-Crespo Miguel Antonio , Dorantes-Rosales Héctor , Palma-Ramírez Diana , Willcock Helen
Published: February 2022

A viable alternative for the next generation of wound dressings is the preparation of electrospun fibers from biodegradable polymers in combination with inorganic nanoparticles. A poly(vinyl alcohol)-chitosan-silver nanoparticles (PVA-CTS-Ag NPs) system has been developed for antimicrobial and wound healing applications. Here, the preparation of PVA-CTS-Ag electrospun fibers using a two-step process is reported in order to analyze changes in the microstructural, mechanical, and antibacterial properties and confirm their potential application in the biomedical field. The Ag nanoparticles were well-dispersed into the chitosan matrix and their cubic structure after the electrospinning process was also retained. The Ag NPs displayed an average diameter of ~33 nm into the CTS matrix, while the size increased up to 213 nm in the PVA-CTS-Ag(NPs) fibers. It was observed that strong chemical interactions exist between organic (CTS) and inorganic phases through nitrogenous groups and the oxygen of the glycosidic bonds. A defect-free morphology was obtained in the PVA-CTS-Ag NPs final fibers with an important enhancement of the mechanical properties as well as of the antibacterial activity compared with pure PVA-CTS electrospun fibers. The results of antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus confirmed that PVA-CTS-Ag(NPs) fibers can be potentially used as a material for biomedical applications.
Antimicrobial Properties of the Triclosan-Loaded Polymeric Composite Based on Unsaturated Polyester Resin: Synthesis, Characterization and Activity
Authors: Tauanov Zhandos , Zakiruly Olzhas , Baimenova Zhuldyz , Baimenov Alzhan , Akimbekov Nuraly S. , Berillo Dmitriy
Published: February 2022

The manufacturing of sanitary and household furniture on a large scale with inherently antimicrobial properties is an essential field of research. This work focuses on the synthesis of polymer composites based on the unsaturated polyester of resin loaded with 5 wt.%-Triclosan produced by a co-mixing approach on automated technological complex with a potential for broad applications. According to findings, the polymer composite has a non-porous structure (surface area < 1.97 m2/g) suitable for sanitary applications to reduce the growth of bacteria. The chemical composition confirmed the presence of major elements, and the inclusion of Triclosan was quantitatively confirmed by the appearance of chlorine on XRF (1.67 wt.%) and EDS (1.62 wt.%) analysis. Thermal analysis showed the difference of 5 wt.% in weight loss, which confirms the loading of Triclosan into the polymer matrix. The polymer composite completely inhibited the strains of S. aureus 6538-P, S. aureus 39, S. epidermidis 12228, and Kl. Pneumoniae 10031 after 5-min contact time. The antimicrobial effects against Kl. pneumoniae 700603, Ps. aeruginosa 9027 and Ps. aeruginosa TA2 strains were 92.7%, 85.8% and 18.4%, respectively. The inhibition activity against C. albicans 10231 and C. albicans 2091 was 1.6% and 82.4%, respectively; while the clinical strain of C. albicans was inhibited by 92.2%. The polymer composite loaded with 5 wt.%-Triclosan displayed a stability over the period that illustrates the possibility of washing the composite surface.