bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Layered Aminovanadic Oxalate Phosphate on Flame Retardancy of Epoxy Resin
Authors: Hu Po , Li Weixi , Huang Shuai , Zhang Zongmian , Liu Hong , Zhan Wang , Chen Mingyi , Kong Qinghong
Published: April 2023

To alleviate the fire hazard of epoxy resin (EP), layered ammonium vanadium oxalate-phosphate (AVOPh) with the structural formula of (NH4)2[VO(HPO4)]2(C2O4)·5H2O is synthesized using the hydrothermal method and mixed into an EP matrix to prepare EP/AVOPh composites. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results show that AVOPh exhibits a similar thermal decomposition temperature to EP, which is suitable for flame retardancy for EP. The incorporation of AVOPh nanosheets greatly improves the thermal stability and residual yield of EP/AVOPh composites at high temperatures. The residue of pure EP is 15.3% at 700 °C. In comparison, the residue of EP/AVOPh composites is increased to 23.0% with 8 wt% AVOPh loading. Simultaneously, EP/6 wt% AVOPh composites reach UL-94 V1 rating (t1 + t2 =16 s) and LOI value of 32.8%. The improved flame retardancy of EP/ AVOPh composites is also proven by the cone calorimeter test (CCT). The results of CCT of EP/8 wt% AVOPh composites show that the peak heat release rate (PHHR), total smoke production (TSP), peak of CO production (PCOP), and peak of CO2 production (PCO2P) decrease by 32.7%, 20.4%, 37.1%, and 33.3% compared with those of EP, respectively. This can be attributed to the lamellar barrier, gas phase quenching effect of phosphorus-containing volatiles, the catalytic charring effect of transition metal vanadium, and the synergistic decomposition of oxalic acid structure and charring effect of phosphorus phase, which can insulate heat and inhibit smoke release. Based on the experimental data, AVOPh is expected to serve as a new high-efficiency flame retardant for EP.
Targeted MRM Quantification of Urinary Proteins in Chronic Kidney Disease Caused by Glomerulopathies
Authors: Kononikhin Alexey S. , Brzhozovskiy Alexander G. , Bugrova Anna E. , Chebotareva Natalia V. , Zakharova Natalia V. , Semenov Savva , Vinogradov Anatoliy , Indeykina Maria I. , Moiseev Sergey , Larina Irina M. , Nikolaev Evgeny N.
Published: April 2023

Glomerulopathies with nephrotic syndrome that are resistant to therapy often progress to end-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD) and require timely and accurate diagnosis. Targeted quantitative urine proteome analysis by mass spectrometry (MS) with multiple-reaction monitoring (MRM) is a promising tool for early CKD diagnostics that could replace the invasive biopsy procedure. However, there are few studies regarding the development of highly multiplexed MRM assays for urine proteome analysis, and the two MRM assays for urine proteomics described so far demonstrate very low consistency. Thus, the further development of targeted urine proteome assays for CKD is actual task. Herein, a BAK270 MRM assay previously validated for blood plasma protein analysis was adapted for urine-targeted proteomics. Because proteinuria associated with renal impairment is usually associated with an increased diversity of plasma proteins being present in urine, the use of this panel was appropriate. Another advantage of the BAK270 MRM assay is that it includes 35 potential CKD markers described previously. Targeted LC-MRM MS analysis was performed for 69 urine samples from 46 CKD patients and 23 healthy controls, revealing 138 proteins that were found in ≥2/3 of the samples from at least one of the groups. The results obtained confirm 31 previously proposed CKD markers. Combination of MRM analysis with machine learning for data processing was performed. As a result, a highly accurate classifier was developed (AUC = 0.99) that enables distinguishing between mild and severe glomerulopathies based on the assessment of only three urine proteins (GPX3, PLMN, and A1AT or SHBG).
Carnosine Counteracts the Molecular Alterations Aβ Oligomers-Induced in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: Caruso Giuseppe , Fresta Claudia G. , Fidilio Annamaria , Lazzara Francesca , Musso Nicolò , Cardaci Vincenzo , Drago Filippo , Caraci Filippo , Bucolo Claudio
Published: April 2023

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has been described as a progressive eye disease characterized by irreversible impairment of central vision, and unfortunately, an effective treatment is still not available. It is well-known that amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptide is one of the major culprits in causing neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The extracellular accumulation of this peptide has also been found in drusen which lies under the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and represents one of the early signs of AMD pathology. Aβ aggregates, especially in the form of oligomers, are able to induce pro-oxidant (oxidative stress) and pro-inflammatory phenomena in RPE cells. ARPE-19 is a spontaneously arising human RPE cell line validated for drug discovery processes in AMD. In the present study, we employed ARPE-19 treated with Aβ oligomers, representing an in vitro model of AMD. We used a combination of methods, including ATPlite, quantitative real-time PCR, immunocytochemistry, as well as a fluorescent probe for reactive oxygen species to investigate the molecular alterations induced by Aβ oligomers. In particular, we found that Aβ exposure decreased the cell viability of ARPE-19 cells which was paralleled by increased inflammation (increased expression of pro-inflammatory mediators) and oxidative stress (increased expression of NADPH oxidase and ROS production) along with the destruction of ZO-1 tight junction protein. Once the damage was clarified, we investigated the therapeutic potential of carnosine, an endogenous dipeptide that is known to be reduced in AMD patients. Our findings demonstrate that carnosine was able to counteract most of the molecular alterations induced by the challenge of ARPE-19 with Aβ oligomers. These new findings obtained with ARPE-19 cells challenged with Aβ1-42 oligomers, along with the well-demonstrated multimodal mechanism of action of carnosine both in vitro and in vivo, able to prevent and/or counteract the dysfunctions elicited by Aβ oligomers, substantiate the neuroprotective potential of this dipeptide in the context of AMD pathology.
Tailoring the Composition of BaxBO3 (B = Fe, Mn) Mixed Oxides as CO or Soot Oxidation Catalysts in Simulated GDI Engine Exhaust Conditions
Authors: Díaz-Verde Álvaro , Montilla-Verdú Salvador , Torregrosa-Rivero Verónica , Illán-Gómez María-José
Published: April 2023

Mixed oxides with perovskite-type structure (ABO3) are promising catalysts for atmospheric pollution control due to their interesting and tunable physicochemical properties. In this work, two series of BaxMnO3 and BaxFeO3 (x = 1 and 0.7) catalysts were synthesized using the sol–gel method adapted to aqueous medium. The samples were characterized by μ-XRF, XRD, FT-IR, XPS, H2-TPR, and O2-TPD. The catalytic activity for CO and GDI soot oxidation was determined by temperature-programmed reaction experiments (CO-TPR and soot-TPR, respectively). The results reveal that a decrease in the Ba content improved the catalytic performance of both catalysts, as B0.7M-E is more active than BM-E for CO oxidation, and B0.7F-E presents higher activity than BF for soot conversion in simulated GDI engine exhaust conditions. Manganese-based perovskites (BM-E and B0.7M-E) achieve better catalytic performance than iron-based perovskite (BF) for CO oxidation reaction due to the higher generation of actives sites.
Natural Products for Pesticides Discovery: Structural Diversity Derivation and Biological Activities of Naphthoquinones Plumbagin and Juglone
Authors: Wang Kaihua , Wang Beibei , Ma Henan , Wang Ziwen , Liu Yuxiu , Wang Qingmin
Published: April 2023

Plant diseases and insect pests seriously affect the yield and quality of crops and are difficult to control. Natural products are an important source for the discovery of new pesticides. In this work, naphthoquinones plumbagin and juglone were selected as parent structures, and a series of their derivatives were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their fungicidal activities, antiviral activities and insecticidal activities. We found that the naphthoquinones have broad-spectrum anti-fungal activities against 14 types of fungus for the first time. Some of the naphthoquinones showed higher fungicidal activities than pyrimethanil. Compounds I, I-1e and II-1a emerged as new anti-fungal lead compounds with excellent fungicidal activities (EC50 values: 11.35–17.70 µg/mL) against Cercospora, arachidicola Hori. Some compounds also displayed good to excellent antiviral activities against the tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). Compounds I-1f and II-1f showed similar level of anti-TMV activities with ribavirin, and could be used as new antiviral candidates. These compound also exhibited good to excellent insecticidal activities. Compounds II-1d and III-1c displayed a similar level of insecticidal activities with matrine, hexaflumuron and rotenone against Plutella xylostella. In current study, plumbagin and juglone were discovered as parent structures, which lays a foundation for their application in plant protection.
Synthesis of Graphene Oxide from Sugarcane Dry Leaves by Two-Stage Pyrolysis
Authors: Thangaraj Baskar , Mumtaz Fatima , Abbas Yawar , Anjum Dalaver H. , Solomon Pravin Raj , Hassan Jamal
Published: April 2023

Natural or synthetic graphite as precursors for the preparation of graphene oxide (GO) have constraints due to their limited availability, high reaction temperature for processing of synthetic graphite and higher generation cost. The use of oxidants, long reaction duration, the generation of toxic gases and residues of inorganic salts, the degree of hazard and low yield are some of the disadvantages of the oxidative-exfoliation methods. Under these circumstances, biomass waste usage as a precursor is a viable alternative. The conversion of biomass into GO by the pyrolysis method is ecofriendly with diverse applications, which partially overcomes the waste disposal problem encountered by the existing methods. In this study, graphene oxide (GO) is prepared from dry leaves of sugarcane plant through a two-step pyrolysis method using ferric (III) citrate as a catalyst, followed by treatment with conc. H2SO4. The synthesized GO is analyzed by UV-Vis., FTIR, XRD, SEM, TEM, EDS and Raman spectroscopy. The synthesized GO has many oxygen-containing functional groups (–OH, C–OH, COOH, C–O). It shows a sheet-like structure with a crystalline size of 10.08 nm. The GO has a graphitic structure due to the Raman shift of G (1339 cm−1) and D (1591 cm−1) bands. The prepared GO has multilayers due to the ratio of 0.92 between ID and IG. The weight ratios between carbon and oxygen are examined by SEM-EDS and TEM-EDS and found to be 3.35 and 38.11. This study reveals that the conversion of sugarcane dry leaves into the high-value-added material GO becomes realistic and feasible and thus reduces the production cost of GO.
Physicochemical Properties, Antioxidant Markers, and Meat Quality as Affected by Heat Stress: A Review
Authors: Bejaoui Bochra , Sdiri Chaima , Ben Souf Ikram , Belhadj Slimen Imen , Ben Larbi Manel , Koumba Sidrine , Martin Patrick , M’Hamdi Naceur
Published: April 2023

Heat stress is one of the most stressful events in livestock life, negatively impacting animal health, productivity, and product quality. Moreover, the negative impact of heat stress on animal product quality has recently attracted increasing public awareness and concern. The purpose of this review is to discuss the effects of heat stress on the quality and the physicochemical component of meat in ruminants, pigs, rabbits, and poultry. Based on PRISMA guidelines, research articles were identified, screened, and summarized based on inclusion criteria for heat stress on meat safety and quality. Data were obtained from the Web of Science. Many studies reported the increased incidences of heat stress on animal welfare and meat quality. Although heat stress impacts can be variable depending on the severity and duration, the exposure of animals to heat stress (HS) can affect meat quality. Recent studies have shown that HS not only causes physiological and metabolic disturbances in living animals but also alters the rate and extent of glycolysis in postmortem muscles, resulting in changes in pH values that affect carcasses and meat. It has been shown to have a plausible effect on quality and antioxidant activity. Acute heat stress just before slaughter stimulates muscle glycogenolysis and can result in pale, tender, and exudative (PSE) meat characterized by low water-holding capacity (WHC). The enzymatic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) act by scavenging both intracellular and extracellular superoxide radicals and preventing the lipid peroxidation of the plasma membrane. Therefore, understanding and controlling environmental conditions is crucial to successful animal production and product safety. The objective of this review was to investigate the effects of HS on meat quality and antioxidant status.
Highly Efficient Selective Hydrogenation of Cinnamaldehyde to Cinnamyl Alcohol over CoRe/TiO2 Catalyst
Authors: Chen Mengting , Wang Yun , Jiang Limin , Cheng Yuran , Liu Yingxin , Wei Zuojun
Published: April 2023

Allylic alcohols typically produced through selective hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes are important intermediates in fine chemical industry, but it is still a challenge to achieve its high selectivity transformation. Herein, we report a series of TiO2-supported CoRe bimetallic catalysts for the selective hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde (CAL) to cinnamyl alcohol (COL) using formic acid (FA) as a hydrogen donor. The resultant catalyst with the optimized Co/Re ratio of 1:1 can achieve an exceptional COL selectivity of 89% with a CAL conversion of 99% under mild conditions of 140 °C for 4 h, and the catalyst can be reused four times without loss of activity. Meanwhile, the Co1Re1/TiO2/FA system was efficient for the selective hydrogenation of various α,β-unsaturated aldehydes to the corresponding α,β-unsaturated alcohols. The presence of ReOx on the Co1Re1/TiO2 catalyst surface was advantageous to the adsorption of C=O, and the ultrafine Co nanoparticles provided abundant hydrogenation active sites for the selective hydrogenation. Moreover, FA as a hydrogen donor improved the selectivity to α,β-unsaturated alcohols.
In Vitro and In Silico Studies on Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Peptides Found in Hydrophobic Domains of Porcine Elastin
Authors: Hatakenaka Toshiya , Kato Tamaki , Okamoto Kouji
Published: April 2023

One of the most striking aspects of the primary structure in the hydrophobic domains of the tropoelastin molecule is the occurrence of the VAPGVG repeating sequence. Since the N-terminal tripeptide VAP of VAPGVG showed a potent ACE inhibitory activity, the ACE inhibitory activity of various derivatives of VAP was examined in vitro. The results showed that VAP derivative peptides VLP, VGP, VSP, GAP, LSP, and TRP exhibited potent ACE inhibitory activities, while the non-derivative peptide APG showed only weak activity. In in silico studies, the docking score S value showed that VAP derivative peptides VLP, VGP, VSP, LSP, and TRP had stronger docking interactions than APG. Molecular docking in the ACE active pocket showed that TRP, the most potent ACE inhibitory peptide among the VAP derivatives, had a larger number of interactions with ACE residues in comparison with APG and that the TRP molecule appeared to spread widely in the ACE pocket, while the APG molecule appeared to spread closely. Differences in molecular spread may be a reason why TRP exhibits more potent ACE inhibitory activity than APG. The results suggest that the number and strength of interactions between the peptide and ACE are important for the ACE- inhibitory potency of the peptide.
Regioselective Reaction of 2-Indolylmethanols with Enamides
Authors: Tian Yuting , He Dongqing , Gao Limei , Zou Yu , Liu Xiaoshuang , Wang Qiang , Liang Enxiang , Zheng Yongsheng
Published: April 2023

A highly regioselective reaction of 2-indolylmethanols with enamides has been developed at room temperature by using AlCl3 as a catalyst. A wide range of hybrids (40 examples) of indoles and enamides were obtained in moderate to good yields (up to 98% yield). This transformation represents the efficient way to introduce biologically important indoles and enamides skeleton into structurally complex hybrids.
A Review of the Development of Multitarget Molecules against HIV-TB Coinfection Pathogens
Authors: Leite Debora Inacio , de Castro Bazan Moura Stefany , da Conceição Avelino Dias Maria , Costa Carolina Catta Preta , Machado Gustavo Peixoto , Pimentel Luiz Claudio Ferreira , Branco Frederico Silva Castelo , Moreira Rui , Bastos Monica Macedo , Boechat Nubia
Published: April 2023

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) produces the pathologic basis of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). An increase in the viral load in the body leads to a decline in the number of T lymphocytes, compromising the patient’s immune system. Some opportunistic diseases may result, such as tuberculosis (TB), which is the most common in seropositive patients. Long-term treatment is required for HIV-TB coinfection, and cocktails of drugs for both diseases are used concomitantly. The most challenging aspects of treatment are the occurrence of drug interactions, overlapping toxicity, no adherence to treatment and cases of resistance. Recent approaches have involved using molecules that can act synergistically on two or more distinct targets. The development of multitarget molecules could overcome the disadvantages of the therapies used to treat HIV-TB coinfection. This report is the first review on using molecules with activities against HIV and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) for molecular hybridization and multitarget strategies. Here, we discuss the importance and development of multiple targets as a means of improving adherence to therapy in cases of the coexistence of these pathologies. In this context, several studies on the development of structural entities to treat HIV-TB simultaneously are discussed.
Volatile Components, Antioxidant and Phytotoxic Activity of the Essential Oil of Piper acutifolium Ruiz & Pav. from Peru
Authors: Cuadros-Siguas Carmela Fiorella , Herrera-Calderon Oscar , Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Almohmadi Najlaa Hamed , Aljarba Nada H. , Apesteguia-Infantes José Alfonso , Loyola-Gonzales Eddie , Tataje-Napuri Freddy Emilio , Kong-Chirinos José Francisco , Almeida-Galindo José Santiago , Chávez Haydee , Pari-Olarte Josefa Bertha
Published: April 2023

Piper acutifolium Ruiz & Pav is known as “matico” and belongs to the Piperaceae family, and in Peru it is traditionally used as an infusion or decoction to ameliorate wound healings or ulcers. In this study, the aim was to investigate the volatile components, the antioxidant profile, and the phytotoxic activity of the essential oil (EO) of P. acutifolium from Peru. To identify the phytoconstituents, the EO was injected into a Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to obtain the chemical profile of the volatile components, followed by the antioxidant activity carried out by the reaction with three organic radicals (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH); 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline)-6- sulfonic acid (ABTS); ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP)). Finally, the phytotoxic capabilities of the EO were tested on two model plants, Lactuca sativa seeds and Allium cepa bulbs. As a result, the analysis identified α-phellandrene as its main volatile chemical at 38.18%, followed by β-myrcene (29.48%) and β-phellandrene (21.88%). Regarding the antioxidant profile, the half inhibitory concentration (IC50) in DPPH was 160.12 ± 0.30 µg/mL, for ABTS it was 138.10 ± 0.06 µg/mL and finally in FRAP it was 450.10 ± 0.05 µg/mL. The phytotoxic activity demonstrated that the EO had high activity at 5% and 10% against L. sativa seed germination, the inhibition of root length, and hypocotyl length. Additionally, in A. cepa bulbs, the inhibition root length was obtained at 10%, both comparable to glyphosate, which was used as a positive control. The molecular docking on 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) revealed that α-phellandrene had −5.8 kcal/mol, being near to glyphosate at −6.3 kcal/mol. The conclusion shows that the EO of P. acutifolium presented antioxidant and phytotoxic activity and might be useful as a bioherbicide in the future.
Assessment of Bioactive Phytochemicals and Utilization of Rosa canina Fruit Extract as a Novel Natural Antioxidant for Mayonnaise
Authors: Soltan Osama I. A. , Gazwi Hanaa S. S. , Ragab Amany E. , Aljohani Abdullah S. M. , El-Ashmawy Ibrahim M. , Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Hafiz Amin A. , Abdel-Hameed Sanaa M.
Published: April 2023

The oxidation of food emulsions causes rancidity, which reduces their shelf life. To prevent rancidity, synthetic antioxidants are widely used in the food industry. However, due to their potential health risks, researchers are exploring natural alternatives. This study aimed to investigate whether Rosa canina fruit extract (RCFE) could be used as a natural antioxidant to extend the shelf life of mayonnaise. Mayonnaise containing varying concentrations of RCFE [0.125% (T1), 0.25% (T2), 0.50% (T3), 0.75% (T4)] was compared to a mayonnaise control sample (C1) and a mayonnaise sample containing 0.02% BHT (C2) for 60 days of storage at 4 °C. RCFE was found to have high levels of total phenols content (52.06 ± 1.14 mg GAE g−1), total flavonoids content (26.31 ± 1.03 mg QE g−1), and free radical scavenging activity. The GC–MS analysis of RCFE revealed 39 different peaks, whereas the HPLC analysis showed the presence of 13 polyphenolic compounds in RCFE. The pH values of T2, T3, and T4 mayonnaise samples substantially declined as storage progressed; however, the reduction was less than that of C1 and C2. After 60 days, mayonnaise samples T2, T3, and T4 had greatly reduced peroxide and free fatty acid levels compared to C1 and C2. The mayonnaise enriched with RCFE (T3 and T4) had the most potent antioxidative ability and the lowest value of lipid hydroperoxides (peroxide value, POV) and the lowest value of thiobarbituric-acid-reactive substances (TBARS). The sensory evaluation revealed that the T3 sample exhibited the highest overall acceptability. In conclusion, this study recommends that RCFE could be used as a natural preservative to enhance the shelf life of functional foods.
A Robust Protocol to Isolate Outer Membrane Vesicles from Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae
Authors: Libardo M. Daben J. , Durr Eberhard , Hernandez Lorraine D.
Published: April 2023

Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) are lipid structures containing various biomolecules in their native environment and are spontaneously shed by gram-negative bacteria. OMVs perform several biological functions critical to both bacterial physiology and pathogenicity. Scientific research on OMV function and biogenesis requires a standardized and robust method of isolating these vesicles from bacterial cultures that reliably provide high-purity OMVs. Herein, we describe an optimized protocol to isolate OMVs from overnight cultures of three different strains of nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) for use in different downstream applications. Involving mainly differential centrifugation of the culture supernatant, the procedure described is relatively simple, efficient, and generates high-quality OMV preparations from each strain tested with sufficient yields, while preserving the native outer membrane composition.
Association between Dietary Acid Load and Hyperuricemia in Chinese Adults: Analysis of the China Health and Nutrition Survey (2009)
Authors: Zhang Min , Ye Chen , Wang Ruoyu , Zhang Zongfeng , Huang Xiaojie , Halimulati Mairepaiti , Sun Meng , Ma Yuxin , Zhang Zhaofeng
Published: April 2023

Background: This study evaluates the association between dietary acid load (DAL) and hyperuricemia in Chinese adults. Methods: The China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) in 2009 was used in this cross-sectional study. Potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP) were applied to estimate DAL. A multiple logistic regression model was used to test the relationship between DAL and hyperuricemia risk. Results: A total of 7947 participants were included in this study, of whom 1172 had hyperuricemia. The PRAL score was positively related to the prevalence of hyperuricemia, even when potential covariates were taken into account. In comparison with Q1, the ORs were 1.12 (95% CI, 0.92–1.38), 1.20 (95% CI, 0.97–1.47) and 1.42 (95% CI, 1.16–1.75) in Q2, Q3 and Q4. However, there was no significant relationship between NEAP scores and hyperuricemia. Every 10 g increase in energy-adjusted fat, protein and animal protein intakes caused a 10%, 17% and 18% increase in hyperuricemia risk, respectively (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.04–1.16; OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.11–1.25; OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.12–1.24, respectively). An obvious linear correlation was also suggested by the restricted cubic spline. Conclusions: Hyperuricemia risk was associated with higher PRAL among Chinese adults. This means that a diet low in PRAL scores could be a very valuable uric acid-lowering dietary pattern.
Effectiveness of Nutritional Supplements for Attenuating the Side Effects of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines
Authors: Gualtieri Paola , Trombetta Domenico , Smeriglio Antonella , Frank Giulia , Alibrandi Angela , Leggeri Giulia , Marchetti Marco , Zingale Ilaria , Fanelli Silvia , Stocchi Arianna , Di Renzo Laura
Published: April 2023

Supplementation is known to enhance the immune response and reduce infection. Therefore, the association between immune nutrients and vaccine side effects needs to be investigated. Our aim was to analyze the relationship between vaccination side effects and supplement intake among the Italian population. The study included a questionnaire asking for personal data, anthropometric information, COVID-19 infection and immunity response, and COVID-19 vaccination and supplementation. The survey was conducted from 8 February to 15 June 2022. In the study, 776 respondents were included, aged between 18 and 86 (71.3% females). We observed a statistically significant correlation between supplement consumption and side effects at the end of the vaccination cycle (p = 0.000), which was also confirmed by logistic regression (p = 0.02). Significant associations were observed between supplement intake and side effects of diarrhea and nausea at the end of the vaccination cycle (p = 0.001; p = 0.04, respectively). Significant associations were observed between side effects and omega-3 and mineral supplementation at the start of the vaccination cycle (p = 0.02; p = 0.001, respectively), and between side effects and vitamin supplementation at the end of the vaccination cycle (p = 0.005). In conclusion, our study shows a positive impact of supplementation on vaccination response, increasing host immune defenses, and reducing side effects.
Iron and DHA in Infant Formula Purchased in the US Fails to Meet European Nutrition Requirements
Authors: Strzalkowski Alexander , Black Grace , Young Bridget E.
Published: April 2023

Requirements for iron and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content of infant formula varies by country. Powdered full-term infant formula purchase data from all major physical stores in the US between 2017–2019 were obtained from CIRCANA, Inc. Iron and DHA composition and scoop sizes for each formula were obtained from manufacturers. The equivalent liquid ounces of prepared formula were calculated. Average iron and DHA content were compared between formula types and to both US and European formula composition requirements. These data represent 55.8 billion ounces of formula. The average iron content of all formula purchased was: 1.80 mg/100 kcal. This iron concentration is within the FDA regulations. However, it exceeds the maximum allowable iron concentration of infant formula (Stage 1) set by the European Commission of 1.3 mg/100 kcal. A total of 96% of formula purchased had an iron concentration of >1.3 mg/100 kcal. DHA is not a required ingredient in US formulas. The average DHA content of all formula purchased was: 12.6 mg/100 kcal. This DHA concentration is far below the minimum required DHA concentrations of infant formula (Stage 1) and follow-on formula (Stage 2) set by the European Commission of 20 mg/100 kcal. These are novel insights into the iron and DHA intake of formula-fed infants in the US. As international infant formulas have entered the US market due to the formula shortage, parents and providers need to be aware of regulatory differences in formula nutrient composition.
Effects of a Losartan-Antioxidant Hybrid (GGN1231) on Vascular and Cardiac Health in an Experimental Model of Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Martínez-Arias Laura , Fernández-Villabrille Sara , Alonso-Montes Cristina , García-Navazo Gonzalo , Ruíz-Torres María P. , Alajarín Ramón , Alvarez-Builla Julio , Gutiérrez-Calabres Elena , Vaquero-López Juan José , Carrillo-López Natalia , Rodríguez-Puyol Diego , Cannata-Andía Jorge B. , Panizo Sara , Naves-Díaz Manuel
Published: April 2023

Drugs providing antihypertensive and protective cardiovascular actions are of clinical interest in controlling cardiovascular events and slowing the progression of kidney disease. We studied the effect of a hybrid compound, GGN1231 (derived from losartan in which a powerful antioxidant was attached), on the prevention of cardiovascular damage, cardiac hypertrophy, and fibrosis in a rat model of severe chronic renal failure (CRF). CRF by a 7/8 nephrectomy was carried out in male Wistar rats fed with a diet rich in phosphorous (0.9%) and normal calcium (0.6%) for a period of 12 weeks until sacrifice. In week 8, rats were randomized in five groups receiving different drugs including dihydrocaffeic acid as antioxidant (Aox), losartan (Los), dihydrocaffeic acid+losartan (Aox+Los) and GGN1231 as follows: Group 1 (CRF+vehicle group), Group 2 (CRF+Aox group), Group 3 (CRF+Los group), Group 4 (CRF+Aox+Los group), and Group 5 (CRF+GGN1231 group). Group 5, the CRF+GGN1231 group, displayed reduced proteinuria, aortic TNF-α, blood pressure, LV wall thickness, diameter of the cardiomyocytes, ATR1, cardiac TNF-α and fibrosis, cardiac collagen I, and TGF-β1 expression. A non-significant 20% reduction in the mortality was also observed. This study showed the possible advantages of GGN1231, which could help in the management of cardiovascular and inflammatory processes. Further research is needed to confirm and even expand the positive aspects of this compound.
Role of Microbial Interactions across Food-Related Bacteria on Biofilm Population and Biofilm Decontamination by a TiO2-Nanoparticle-Based Surfactant
Authors: Doulgeraki Agapi I. , Kamarinou Christina S. , Nychas George-John E. , Argyri Anthoula A. , Tassou Chrysoula C. , Moulas Georgios , Chorianopoulos Nikos
Published: April 2023

Microbial interactions play an important role in initial cell adhesion and the endurance of biofilm toward disinfectant stresses. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of microbial interactions on biofilm formation and the disinfecting activity of an innovative photocatalytic surfactant based on TiO2 nanoparticles. Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella Enteritidis, Escherichia coli, Leuconostoc spp., Latilactobacillus sakei, Serratia liquefaciens, Serratia proteomaculans, Citrobacter freundii, Hafnia alvei, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas fragi, and Brochothrix thermosphacta left to form mono- or dual-species biofilms on stainless steel (SS) coupons. The effectiveness of the photocatalytic disinfectant after 2 h of exposure under UV light on biofilm decontamination was evaluated. The effect of one parameter i.e., exposure to UV or disinfectant, was also determined. According to the obtained results, the microbial load of a mature biofilm depended on the different species or dual species that had adhered to the surface, while the presence of other species could affect the biofilm population of a specific microbe (p < 0.05). The disinfectant strengthened the antimicrobial activity of UV, as, in most cases, the remaining biofilm population was below the detection limit of the method. Moreover, the presence of more than one species affected the resistance of the biofilm cells to UV and the disinfectant (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study confirms that microbial interactions affected biofilm formation and decontamination, and it demonstrates the effectiveness of the surfactant with the photocatalytic TiO2 agent, suggesting that it could be an alternative agent with which to disinfect contaminated surfaces.
An Enzybiotic Cocktail Effectively Disrupts Preformed Dual Biofilm of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Manoharadas Salim , Ahmad Naushad , Altaf Mohammad , Alrefaei Abdulwahed Fahad , Al-Rayes Basel F.
Published: April 2023

Multidrug-resistant bacterial infections are on the rise around the world. Chronic infections caused by these pathogens through biofilm mediation often complicate the situation. In natural settings, biofilms are often formed with different species of bacteria existing synergistically or antagonistically. Biofilms on diabetic foot ulcers are formed predominantly by two opportunistic pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. Bacteriophages and phage-based proteins, including endolysins, have been found to be active against biofilms. In this study, we evaluated the activity of two engineered enzybiotics either by themselves or as a combination against a dual biofilm formed by S. aureus and E. faecalis in an inert glass surface. An additive effect in rapidly disrupting the preformed dual biofilm was observed with the cocktail of proteins, in comparison with mono treatment. The cocktail-treated biofilms were dispersed by more than 90% within 3 h of treatment. Apart from biofilm disruption, bacterial cells embedded in the biofilm matrix were also effectively reduced by more than 90% within 3 h of treatment. This is the first instance where a cocktail of engineered enzybiotics has been effectively used to impede the structural integrity of a dual biofilm.
Optimisation of a Greener-Approach for the Synthesis of Cyclodextrin-Based Nanosponges for the Solubility Enhancement of Domperidone, a BCS Class II Drug
Authors: Vij Mohit , Dand Neha , Kumar Lalit , Wadhwa Pankaj , Wani Shahid Ud Din , Mahdi Wael A. , Alshehri Sultan , Alam Prawez , Shakeel Faiyaz
Published: April 2023

BCS class II molecules suffer from low oral bioavailability because of their poor permeability and sub-optimal aqueous solubility. One of the approaches to enhance their bioavailability is using cyclodextrin-based nanosponges. This study aimed to optimise and evaluate the feasibility of a microwave-assisted approach to synthesise nanosponges and improve domperidone’s solubility and drug delivery potential. In the production process, microwave power level, response speed, and stirring speed were optimised using the Box-Behnken approach. Ultimately, the batch with the smallest particle size and highest yield was chosen. The optimised method of synthesis of the nanosponges resulted in a product yield of 77.4% and a particle size of 195.68 ± 2.16 nm. The nanocarriers had a drug entrapment capacity of 84 ± 4.2% and a zeta potential of −9.17± 0.43 mV. The similarity and the difference factors demonstrated proof-of-concept, showing that the drug release from the loaded nanosponges is significantly greater than the plain drug. Additionally, spectral and thermal characterisations, such as FTIR, DSC, and XRD, confirmed the entrapment of the drug within the nanocarrier. SEM scans revealed the porous nature of the nanocarriers. Microwave-assisted synthesis could be used as a better and greener approach to synthesise these nanocarriers. It could then be utilised to load drugs and improve their solubility, as seen in the case of domperidone.
Effect of Ketamine on Sleep in Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kwaśny Aleksander , Włodarczyk Adam , Ogonowski Damian , Cubała Wiesław Jerzy
Published: April 2023

Background: Depression is a debilitating disease with a high socioeconomic burden. Regular antidepressants usually require several weeks to ameliorate symptoms; however, numerous patients do not achieve remission. What is more, sleep disturbances are one of the most common residual symptoms. Ketamine is a novel antidepressant with rapid onset of action with a proven antisuicidal effect. Little is known about its impact on sleep–wake and circadian rhythm alterations. The aim of this systematic review is to research the impact ketamine has on sleep disturbances in depression. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, and APA PsycINFO were searched for relevant studies on ketamine’s impact on sleep disturbances in depression. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses PRISMA2020 methodology was applied. The systematic review protocol was registered in the PROSPERO Registry (CRD42023387897). Results: Five studies were included in this review. Two studies reported significant improvement in sleep measured by MADRS (Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale) and QIDS-SR16 (Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report (16-item)) scales after intravenous ketamine and intranasal esketamine administration. One case report showed mitigation of symptoms in PSQI (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) and ISI (Insomnia Severity Index) during 3-month treatment with esketamine. In two studies, sleep was objectively measured by nocturnal EEG (electroencephalography) and showed a decrease in nocturnal wakefulness accompanied by an increase in slow wave (SWS) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Conclusion: Ketamine reduces the severity of sleep insomnia in depression. Robust data are lacking. More research is needed.
Recent Advances in Biocompatible Ionic Liquids in Drug Formulation and Delivery
Authors: Moshikur Rahman Md , Carrier Rebecca L. , Moniruzzaman Muhammad , Goto Masahiro
Published: April 2023

The development of effective drug formulations and delivery systems for newly developed or marketed drug molecules remains a significant challenge. These drugs can exhibit polymorphic conversion, poor bioavailability, and systemic toxicity, and can be difficult to formulate with traditional organic solvents due to acute toxicity. Ionic liquids (ILs) are recognized as solvents that can improve the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of drugs. ILs can address the operational/functional challenges associated with traditional organic solvents. However, many ILs are non-biodegradable and inherently toxic, which is the most significant challenge in developing IL-based drug formulations and delivery systems. Biocompatible ILs comprising biocompatible cations and anions mainly derived from bio-renewable sources are considered a green alternative to both conventional ILs and organic/inorganic solvents. This review covers the technologies and strategies developed to design biocompatible ILs, focusing on the design of biocompatible IL-based drug formulations and delivery systems, and discusses the advantages of these ILs in pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. Furthermore, this review will provide guidance on transitioning to biocompatible ILs rather than commonly used toxic ILs and organic solvents in fields ranging from chemical synthesis to pharmaceutics.
Recent Advances in Strategies to Combat Bacterial Drug Resistance: Antimicrobial Materials and Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Yao Jiaxin , Zou Pengfei , Cui Yanan , Quan Liangzhu , Gao Chunsheng , Li Zhiping , Gong Wei , Yang Meiyan
Published: April 2023

Bacterial infection is a common clinical disease. Antibiotics have saved countless lives since their discovery and are a powerful weapon in the fight against bacteria. However, with the widespread use of antibiotics, the problem of drug resistance now poses a great threat to human health. In recent years, studies have investigated approaches to combat bacterial resistance. Several antimicrobial materials and drug delivery systems have emerged as promising strategies. Nano-drug delivery systems for antibiotics can reduce the resistance to antibiotics and extend the lifespan of novel antibiotics, and they allow targeting drug delivery compared to conventional antibiotics. This review highlights the mechanistic insights of using different strategies to combat drug-resistant bacteria and summarizes the recent advancements in antimicrobial materials and drug delivery systems for different carriers. Furthermore, the fundamental properties of combating antimicrobial resistance are discussed, and the current challenges and future perspectives in this field are proposed.
Photodynamic Activity of TMPyP4/TiO2 Complex under Blue Light in Human Melanoma Cells: Potential for Cancer-Selective Therapy
Authors: Balas Mihaela , Nistorescu Simona , Badea Madalina Andreea , Dinischiotu Anca , Boni Mihai , Dinache Andra , Smarandache Adriana , Udrea Ana-Maria , Prepelita Petronela , Staicu Angela
Published: April 2023

The combination of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) and photosensitizers (PS) may offer significant advantages in photodynamic therapy (PDT) of melanoma, such as improved cell penetration, enhanced ROS production, and cancer selectivity. In this study, we aimed to investigate the photodynamic effect of 5,10,15,20-(Tetra-N-methyl-4-pyridyl)porphyrin tetratosylate (TMPyP4) complexes with TiO2 NPs on human cutaneous melanoma cells by irradiation with 1 mW/cm2 blue light. The porphyrin conjugation with the NPs was analyzed by absorption and FTIR spectroscopy. The morphological characterization of the complexes was performed by Scanning Electron Microscopy and Dynamic Light Scattering. The singlet oxygen generation was analyzed by phosphorescence at 1270 nm. Our predictions indicated that the non-irradiated investigated porphyrin has a low degree of toxicity. The photodynamic activity of the TMPyP4/TiO2 complex was assessed on the human melanoma Mel-Juso cell line and non-tumor skin CCD-1070Sk cell line treated with various concentrations of the PS and subjected to dark conditions and visible light-irradiation. The tested complexes of TiO2 NPs with TMPyP4 presented cytotoxicity only after activation by blue light (405 nm) mediated by the intracellular production of ROS in a dose-dependent manner. The photodynamic effect observed in this evaluation was higher in melanoma cells than the effect observed in the non-tumor cell line, demonstrating a promising potential for cancer-selectivity in PDT of melanoma.
Single-Shot Three-Dimensional Measurement by Fringe Analysis Network
Authors: Wan Mingzhu , Kong Lingbao , Peng Xing
Published: April 2023

Fringe projection profilometry (FPP) has been broadly applied in three-dimensional (3D) measurements, but the existing multi-shot methods, which mostly utilize phase-shifting techniques, are heavily affected by the disturbance of vibration and cannot be used in dynamic scenes. In this work, a single-shot 3D measurement method using a deep neural network named the Fringe Analysis Network (FrANet) is proposed. The FrANet is composed of a phase retrieval subnetwork, phase unwrapping subnetwork, and refinement subnetwork. The combination of multiple subnetworks can help to recover long-range information that is missing for a single U-Net. A two-stage training strategy in which the FrANet network is pre-trained using fringe pattern reprojection and fine-tuned using ground truth phase maps is designed. Such a training strategy lowers the number of ground truth phase maps in the data set, saves time during data collection, and maintains the accuracy of supervised methods in real-world setups. Experimental studies were carried out on a setup FPP system. In the test set, the mean absolute error (MAE) of the refined absolute phase maps was 0.0114 rad, and the root mean square error (RMSE) of the 3D reconstruction results was 0.67 mm. The accuracy of the proposed method in dynamic scenes was evaluated by measuring moving standard spheres. The measurement of the sphere diameter maintained a high accuracy of 84 μm at a speed of 0.759 m/s. Two-stage training only requires 8800 fringe images in data acquisition, while supervised methods require 96,000 fringe images for the same number of iterations. Ablation studies verified the effectiveness of two training stages and three subnetworks. The proposed method achieved accurate single-shot 3D measurements comparable to those obtained using supervised methods and has a high data efficiency. This enables the accurate 3D shape measurement of moving or vibrating objects in industrial manufacturing and allows for further exploration of network architecture and training strategy with few training samples for single-shot 3D measurement.
Particle Swarm Optimized Compact, Low Loss 3-dB Power Splitter Enabled by Silicon Columns in Silicon-on-Insulator
Authors: Liu Xiang , Zhao Yingxuan , Zhu Zijian , Liu Hongbao , Gan Fuwan
Published: April 2023

We demonstrate a 3-dB power splitter optimized by an enhanced particle swarm optimization algorithm based on a curved directional coupler, with a set of silicon columns introduced into the coupling region. The proposed device exhibits compact size, low loss and low wavelength dependence in the O-band. We employ the particle swarm optimization algorithm to engineer the dispersion by designing the radius of the silicon columns automatically. The demonstrated 3-dB power splitter enabled by silicon columns in silicon-on-insulator can achieve multiple performance metrics simultaneously according to our simulation results, with a compact footprint as small as 11.9 µm, low excess loss as low as 0.04 dB and broad 3-dB operational bandwidth of 60 nm with transmission fluctuations within 0.05 in the wavelength range from 1270 to 1330 nm. This work pioneers the silicon columns in the coupling region and adopts an enhanced particle swarm optimization algorithm to optimize device properties, providing significant potential for application in large-scale PICs as well as offering a new degree of freedom in the design of power splitters.
One-Dimensional High-Resolution Wavefront Sensor Enabled by Subwavelength Compound Gratings
Authors: Meng Yunlong , Shen Xinyu , Xie Junyang , Peng Yao , Shao Xiaowen , Yan Feng , Yang Cheng
Published: April 2023

Angle sensors are widely used for wavefront measurements, which is attributed to their integration and robustness. Currently, commercial sensors are available with pixel sizes in the order of wavelengths. However, the spatial resolution of angle sensors still lags far behind. Here, we report a one-dimensional, high-resolution wavefront sensor. It was produced by introducing subwavelength compound gratings above the pixels. The gratings involved could be replaced by the sensor’s intrinsic readout circuitry without additional operation. The experimental results showed that it had a spatial resolution of 1.4 µm, two orders of magnitude higher than that of the Shack–Hartmann wavefront sensor. The significant increase in spatial resolution enables angle sensors to reconstruct complex wavefronts accurately.