bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Polarization Properties of Holographic Storage Materials Based on RGO Size Effect
Authors: Liu Jie , Hu Po , Ye Tian , Li Jianan , Li Jinhong , Chen Mingyong , Zhang Zuoyu , Lin Xiao , Tan Xiaodi
Published: December 2023

Polarized holographic properties play an important role in the holographic data storage of traditional organic recording materials. In this study, reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was introduced into a phenanthraquinone-doped polymethylmethacrylate (PQ/PMMA) photopolymer to effectively improve the orthogonal polarization holographic properties of the material. Importantly, the lateral size of RGO nanosheets has an important influence on the polymerization of MMA monomers. To some extent, a larger RGO diameter is more conducive to promoting the polymerization of MMA monomers and can induce more PMMA polymers to be grafted on its surface, thus obtaining a higher PMMA molecular weight. However, too large of a RGO will lead to too much grafting of the PMMA chain to shorten the length of a single PMMA chain, which will lead to the degradation of PQ/PMMA holographic performance. Compared with the original PQ/PMMA, the diffraction efficiency of the RGO-doped PQ/PMMA photopolymer can reach more than 11.4% (more than 3.5 times higher than the original PQ/PMMA), and its photosensitivity is significantly improved by 4.6 times. This study successfully synthesized RGO-doped PQ/PMMA high-performance photopolymer functional materials for multi-dimensional holographic storage by introducing RGO nanoparticles. Furthermore, the polarization holographic properties of PQ/PMMA photopolymer materials can be further accurately improved to a new level.
A Review: Pharmacological Effect of Natural Compounds in Diospyros kaki Leaves from the Perspective of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Hong Chong , Wang Xu , Xu Jianjian , Guo Jianxing , Peng Houlin , Zhang Yan
Published: December 2023

Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant levels. Current research suggests that oxidative stress is one of the key factors in the development of many chronic diseases, and it has been a concern for many years. Many natural compounds have been studied for their special free-radical-scavenging properties. The major chemical constituents of the leaves of Diospyros kaki are flavonoids and triterpenoids, both of which are potential antioxidants that can prevent damage caused by reactive oxygen species or reactive nitrogen species and ameliorate diseases associated with oxidative stress. In addition to the major constituents such as flavonoids and triterpenoids, the leaves of Diospyros kaki include compounds such as phenylpropanoids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and terpenes. Studies have shown these compounds have certain antioxidant and neuroprotective activities. Experiments have shown that flavonoids or the extracts from the leaves of Diospyros kaki have a variety of good pharmacological activities, which could activate oxidative stress and mitochondrial apoptosis, inhibit the proliferation of human prostate cancer cells and induce apoptosis. It also could achieve the effect of anti-cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis by regulating oxidative stress. The main chemical substance of the leaves of Diospyros kaki regulating oxidative stress may be these multi-hydroxyl structure compounds. These natural products exhibit significant antioxidant activity and are an important basis for the leaves of Diospyros kaki to treat human diseases by regulating oxidative stress. This review summarizes the structural types of natural products in the leaves of Diospyros kaki and elaborates the mechanism of the leaves of Diospyros kaki in neuroprotection, anti-diabetes, renal protection, retinal degenerative diseases, and anti-cancer from a new perspective of oxidative stress, including how it supplements other pharmacological effects. The chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of the leaves of Diospyros kaki are summarized in this paper. The relationship between the chemical components in the leaves of Diospyros kaki and their pharmacological effects is summarized from the perspective of oxidative stress. This review provides a reference for the study of natural anti-oxidative stress drugs.
Thermal Rearrangement of Thiocarbonyl-Stabilised Triphenylphosphonium Ylides Leading to (Z)-1-Diphenylphosphino-2-(phenylsulfenyl)alkenes and Their Coordination Chemistry
Authors: Aitken R. Alan , Dawson Graham , Keddie Neil S. , Kraus Helmut , Milton Heather L. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Wheatley Joanne , Woollins J. Derek
Published: December 2023

While thiocarbonyl-stabilised phosphonium ylides generally react upon flash vacuum pyrolysis by the extrusion of Ph3PS to give alkynes in an analogous way to their carbonyl-stabilised analogues, two examples with a hydrogen atom on the ylidic carbon are found to undergo a quite different process. The net transfer of a phenyl group from P to S gives (Z)-configured 1-diphenylphosphino-2-(phenylsulfenyl)alkenes in a novel isomerisation process via intermediate λ5-1,2-thiaphosphetes. These prove to be versatile hemilabile ligands with a total of seven complexes prepared involving five different transition metals. Four of these are characterised by X-ray diffraction with two involving the bidentate ligand forming a five-membered ring metallacycle and two with the ligand coordinating to the metal only through phosphorus.
AlF–AlF Reaction Dynamics between 200 K and 1000 K: Reaction Mechanisms and Intermediate Complex Characterization
Authors: Wang Weiqi , Liu Xiangyue , Pérez-Ríos Jesús
Published: December 2023

AlF is a relevant molecule in astrochemistry as a tracer of F-bearing molecules. Additionally, AlF presents diagonal Franck-Condon factors and can be created very efficiently in the lab, which makes it a prototypical molecular for laser cooling. However, very little is known about the reaction dynamics of AlF. In this work, we report on the reaction dynamics of AlF–AlF between 200 and 1000 K using ab initio molecular dynamics and a highly efficient active learning approach for the potential energy surface, including all degrees of freedom. As a result, we identify the main reaction mechanisms and the lifetime of the intermediate complex AlF–AlF relevant to astrochemistry environments and regions in buffer gas cells.
Computer-Aided Prediction of the Interactions of Viral Proteases with Antiviral Drugs: Antiviral Potential of Broad-Spectrum Drugs
Authors: Ren Pengxuan , Li Shiwei , Wang Shihang , Zhang Xianglei , Bai Fang
Published: December 2023

Human society is facing the threat of various viruses. Proteases are promising targets for the treatment of viral infections. In this study, we collected and profiled 170 protease sequences from 125 viruses that infect humans. Approximately 73 of them are viral 3-chymotrypsin-like proteases (3CLpro), and 11 are pepsin-like aspartic proteases (PAPs). Their sequences, structures, and substrate characteristics were carefully analyzed to identify their conserved nature for proposing a pan-3CLpro or pan-PAPs inhibitor design strategy. To achieve this, we used computational prediction and modeling methods to predict the binding complex structures for those 73 3CLpro with 4 protease inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 and 11 protease inhibitors of HCV. Similarly, the complex structures for the 11 viral PAPs with 9 protease inhibitors of HIV were also obtained. The binding affinities between these compounds and proteins were also evaluated to assess their pan-protease inhibition via MM-GBSA. Based on the drugs targeting viral 3CLpro and PAPs, repositioning of the active compounds identified several potential uses for these drug molecules. As a result, Compounds 1–2, modified based on the structures of Ray1216 and Asunaprevir, indicate potential inhibition of DENV protease according to our computational simulation results. These studies offer ideas and insights for future research in the design of broad-spectrum antiviral drugs.
Recovering Phosphate from Complex Wastewater Using Macroporous Cryogel Composited Calcium Silicate Hydrate Nanoparticles
Authors: Taweekarn Tarawee , Wongniramaikul Worawit , Roop-o Pariyaporn , Towanlong Wanchitra , Choodum Aree
Published: December 2023

Since currently used natural, nonrenewable phosphorus resources are estimated to be depleted in the next 30–200 years, phosphorus recovery from any phosphorus-rich residues has attracted great interest. In this study, phosphorus recovery from complex wastewater samples was investigated using continuous adsorption on cryogel column composited calcium silicate hydrate nanoparticles (CSH columns). The results showed that 99.99% of phosphate was recovered from a synthetic water sample (50 mg L−1) using a 5 cm CSH column with a 5 mL min−1 influent flow rate for 6 h while 82.82% and 97.58% of phosphate were recovered from household laundry wastewater (1.84 mg L−1) and reverse osmosis concentrate (26.46 mg L−1), respectively. The adsorption capacity decreased with an increasing flow rate but increased with increasing initial concentration and column height, and the obtained experimental data were better fitted to the Yoon–Nelson model (R2 = 0.7723–0.9643) than to the Adams–Bohart model (R2 = 0.6320–0.8899). The adsorption performance of phosphate was decreased 3.65 times in the presence of carbonate ions at a similar concentration, whereas no effect was obtained from nitrate and sulfate. The results demonstrate the potential of continuous-flow phosphate adsorption on the CSH column for the recovery of phosphate from complex wastewater samples.
A Benzil- and BODIPY-Based Turn-On Fluorescent Probe for Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Wang Yunxia , Liu Ye , Liu Bo , Yuan Yihua , Wei Lixia , Wang Mingxiu , Chen Zhe
Published: December 2023

Faced with rising threats of terrorism, environmental and health risks, achieving sensitive and selective detection of peroxide-based explosives (PEs) has become a global focus. In this study, a turn-on fluorescent probe (BOD) based on benzil (H2O2-recognition element) and 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene (BODIPY) derivative (fluorophore) was developed to sensitively and specifically detect hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The synthesized BOD had a very weak fluorescence due to intramolecular donor-excited photo-induced electron transfer (d-PET) effect; however, it could emit a strong fluorescence since H2O2 selectively oxidized the benzil moiety and released free BODIPY fluorophore (BOD-COOH). As a result, the proposed BOD detected H2O2 in linear detection ranged from 25 to 125 µM with a detection limit of 4.41 µM. Meanwhile, the proposed BOD showed good selectivity toward H2O2, which is not affected by other common reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ions from explosive residues. In addition, a blue shift from 508 to 498 nm was observed in the absorption spectra upon addition of H2O2. More importantly, the BOD was successfully applied for rapid detection of H2O2 vapor with good sensitivity (down to 7 ppb), which holds great potential for practical use in public safety, forensic analysis and environmental monitoring.
New System for Simultaneous Measurement of Oxygen Consumption and Changes in Wine Color
Authors: Carrasco-Quiroz Marioli , Martínez-Gil Ana María , Nevares Ignacio , del Alamo-Sanza Maria
Published: December 2023

The design, construction and validation of a device for the accurate measurement of the dissolved oxygen content in wine and simultaneously the variation of its spectral fingerprint is presented. The novelty of this system is due to two innovative approaches. First, robustness in measurements is obtained by using cuvettes designed to simultaneously measure the dissolved oxygen and color. Secondly, automatic monitoring is performed to ensure that measurements are always taken at the same cuvette position. The fine-tuning of the device with the study of white and red wines makes it possible, on the one hand, to establish the appropriate measurement conditions and, on the other hand, to determine the amount of oxygen required to cause specific changes in the wine spectrum, information that could not be obtained until now. The preliminary results are very interesting, presenting precise data on the amount of oxygen consumed by the wine and the variations in its visible spectrum, thus reflecting the modification of the responsible phenolic compounds. This information is of great interest, since it helps to optimize the handling of the wine and, if necessary, to moderate the uptake of oxygen in each type of wine to ensure the maintenance of the color during the winemaking and conservation processes of each type of wine. The results of the experiments indicate that this new instrument is feasible and accurate for detecting oxygen changes during wine production.
Two-Channel Indirect-Gap Photoluminescence and Competition between the Conduction Band Valleys in Few-Layer MoS2
Authors: Bayramov Ayaz H. , Bagiyev Elnur A. , Alizade Elvin H. , Jalilli Javid N. , Mamedov Nazim T. , Jahangirli Zakir A. , Asadullayeva Saida G. , Aliyeva Yegana N. , Cuscunà Massimo , Lorenzo Daniela , Esposito Marco , Balestra Gianluca , Simeone Daniela , Tobaldi David Maria , Abou-Ras Daniel , Schorr Susan
Published: December 2023

MoS2 is a two-dimensional layered transition metal dichalcogenide with unique electronic and optical properties. The fabrication of ultrathin MoS2 is vitally important, since interlayer interactions in its ultrathin varieties will become thickness-dependent, providing thickness-governed tunability and diverse applications of those properties. Unlike with a number of studies that have reported detailed information on direct bandgap emission from MoS2 monolayers, reliable experimental evidence for thickness-induced evolution or transformation of the indirect bandgap remains scarce. Here, the sulfurization of MoO3 thin films with nominal thicknesses of 30 nm, 5 nm and 3 nm was performed. All sulfurized samples were examined at room temperature with spectroscopic ellipsometry and photoluminescence spectroscopy to obtain information about their dielectric function and edge emission spectra. This investigation unveiled an indirect-to-indirect crossover between the transitions, associated with two different Λ and K valleys of the MoS2 conduction band, by thinning its thickness down to a few layers.
Iron Oxide Nanoparticle-Assisted Delamination of Ti3C2Tx MXenes: A New Approach to Produce Magnetic MXene-Based Composites
Authors: Sobolev Kirill , Omelyanchik Alexander , Shilov Nikolai , Gorshenkov Mikhail , Andreev Nikolai , Comite Antonio , Slimani Sawssen , Peddis Davide , Ovchenkov Yevgeniy , Vasiliev Alexander , Magomedov Kurban E. , Rodionova Valeria
Published: December 2023

Ti3C2Tx MXene is one of the most comprehensively studied 2D materials in terms of its adsorptive, transport, and catalytic properties, cytotoxic performance, etc. Still, conventional MXene synthesis approaches provide low single-flake MXene yield and frequently uncontrollable properties, demanding further post-processing. The MXene family also lacks magnetism, which is helpful for producing effective nanoadsorbents as their magnetic decantation is the cheapest and most convenient way to remove the spent adsorbent from water. Composite materials consisting of magnetic nanoparticles grown on top of MXene flakes are commonly used to provide magnetic properties to the resulting nanocomposite. In this paper, we study the possibility to delaminate multilayer Ti3C2Tx MXene sheets directly by growing iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles inside their interlayer spacing. We find out that, with a mass fraction of particles comparable or exceeding that of MXenes, their growth is accompanied by an effective enhancement of single-layer MXene yield and suitable magnetic properties of the resulting composite. The developed approach can be further used for simplifying synthesis protocols to obtain magnetic MXene-based nanoadsorbents with tunable properties.
Theoretical Study on the Open-Shell Electronic Structure and Electron Conductivity of [18]Annulene as a Molecular Parallel Circuit Model
Authors: Amamizu Naoka , Nishida Mitsuhiro , Sasaki Keisuke , Kishi Ryohei , Kitagawa Yasutaka
Published: December 2023

Herein, the electron conductivities of [18]annulene and its derivatives are theoretically examined as a molecular parallel circuit model consisting of two linear polyenes. Their electron conductivities are estimated by elastic scattering Green’s function (ESGF) theory and density functional theory (DFT) methods. The calculated conductivity of the [18]annulene does not follow the classical conductivity, i.e., Ohm’s law, suggesting the importance of a quantum interference effect in single molecules. By introducing electron-withdrawing groups into the annulene framework, on the other hand, a spin-polarized electronic structure appears, and the quantum interference effect is significantly suppressed. In addition, the total current is affected by the spin polarization because of the asymmetry in the coupling constant between the molecule and electrodes. From these results, it is suggested that the electron conductivity as well as the quantum interference effect of π-conjugated molecular systems can be designed using their open-shell nature, which is chemically controlled by the substituents.
Eco-Friendly Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from a Soybean By-Product with Nematicidal Efficacy against Pratylenchus brachyurus
Authors: Oliveira Letícia Santana de , Furtado Leila Lourenço , Diniz Francisco de Assis dos Santos , Mendes Bruno Leonardo , Araújo Thalisson Rosa de , Silva Luciano Paulino , Santiago Thaís Ribeiro
Published: December 2023

This study explores an eco-friendly approach to synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using soybean leaf extracts, employing a reaction with silver nitrate at 65 °C for 2.5 h. Optimal results were achieved at extract concentrations of 3.12 and 6.25 mg of the leaf mL−1, termed 3.12AgNP and 6.25AgNP, respectively. UV-Vis spectrophotometric analysis between 350 and 550 nm exhibited a peak at 410–430 nm, along with a color transition in the suspensions from pale yellow to brown, indicating successful synthesis. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) further delineated the favorable properties of these AgNPs, including nanometric dimensions (73–104 nm), negative charge, and moderate polydispersity, portraying stable and reproducible synthesis reactions. The bioreduction mechanism, possibly expedited by leaf extract constituents such as amino acids, phenolic acids, and polysaccharides, remains to be fully elucidated. Notably, this study underscored the potent nematicidal effectiveness of biosynthesized AgNPs, especially 6.25AgNP, against Pratylenchus brachyurus, which is a common plant-parasitic nematode in tropical soybean cultivation regions. In vitro tests illustrated significant nematicidal activity at concentrations above 25 µmol L−1, while in vivo experiments displayed a pronounced nematode population diminishment in plant roots, particularly with a 6.25AgNP rhizosphere application at concentrations of 500 µmol L−1 or twice at 250 µmol L−1, attaining a reproduction factor below 1 without any morphological nematode alterations. This research highlights the potential of 6.25AgNPs derived from soybean leaf extracts in forging sustainable nematicidal solutions, marking a significant stride toward eco-friendly phytonematode management in soybean cultivation. This novel methodology signals a promising avenue in harnessing botanical resources for nematode control and propelling a greener agricultural horizon.
How Can We Increase the Nutrition-Related Knowledge in Children Aged 7–12 Years: Results of Focus Groups Interviews with Parents—Junior-Edu-Żywienie (JEŻ) Project
Authors: Czarniecka-Skubina Ewa , Hamulka Jadwiga , Gutkowska Krystyna
Published: December 2023

Nutrition education is a long-term process that should cover various population groups. A special focus should be placed on children, adolescents and their parents. The aim of this research was to find out the opinions of parents of primary school pupils aged 7–12 on their expectations towards school education in the areas of food and nutrition, addressed to both pupils and their parents. The research was conducted among 101 parents of primary school pupils with the use of the Focus Group Interview (FGI) method. It demonstrated that what is most needed are hands-on activities relating to basic theoretical issues. While parents see the need for nutrition education for their children, educating pupils in this area is of interest to only some of the respondents for whom nutrition aspects are quite important. All parents would like formal nutrition education at school, but at the same time, they do not want classes to take up too much of their children’s time, due to the already excessive number of school subjects. It seems appropriate to include everyone in regard to nutrition education, regardless of their declared interest in this issue. The need for consistent presentation of educational content addressed to teachers and parents is very important, so that they can, in a uniform way, shape the attitudes towards food and nutrition of children and adolescents.
Comment on Chao, H.-C. Zinc Deficiency and Therapeutic Value of Zinc Supplementation in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Diseases. Nutrients 2023, 15, 4093
Authors: Verma Anil K. , Tandon Shilpa , Blom Jedid-Jah , Armstrong David , Pinto-Sanchez Maria Ines
Published: December 2023

We appreciate the recent review article by Chao H.-C. [...]
Reply to Verma et al. Comment on “Chao, H.-C. Zinc Deficiency and Therapeutic Value of Zinc Supplementation in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Diseases. Nutrients 2023, 15, 4093”
Authors: Chao Hsun-Chin
Published: December 2023

Your comment [...]
Effects of Prebiotic Yeast Mannan on Gut Health and Sleep Quality in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Tanihiro Reiko , Yuki Masahiro , Sasai Masaki , Haseda Akane , Kagami-Katsuyama Hiroyo , Hirota Tatsuhiko , Honma Naoyuki , Nishihira Jun
Published: December 2023

Human gut health is closely related to sleep. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of yeast mannan (YM) in improving bowel habits and sleep quality, along with metabolomics in fecal samples. A total of 40 healthy adults (age range, 22–64 years) with discomfort in defecation were enrolled and randomly allocated to receive either YM (n = 20; 1.1 g/day) or placebo (n = 20) for four weeks. Participants recorded their defecation habits throughout the test periods. Sleep electroencephalogram (EEG) recording using an EEG device and fecal sampling were performed pre- and post-treatment. The YM group significantly increased defecation frequency and stool volumes compared to the placebo group. After 4 weeks of treatment, the non-REM sleep stage 3 (N3) duration in the YM group was significantly higher than that in the placebo group. YM ingestion significantly lengthened total time in bed (TIB) and significantly shortened N3 latency compared to placebo intake during the trial. The metabolomics analysis found a total of 20 metabolite differences between the YM and placebo groups. As a result of stepwise linear regression, changes in fecal propionate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels were identified as the primary factors explaining changes in TIB and N3 latency, respectively. Our findings suggest that the prebiotic YM could be beneficial to gut health and sleep quality.
Comparing the Associations of Dietary Patterns Identified through Principal Component Analysis and Cluster Analysis with Colorectal Cancer Risk: A Large Case–Control Study in China
Authors: Ma Ting , Tu Kexin , Ou Qingjian , Fang Yujing , Zhang Caixia
Published: December 2023

Examining the association between dietary patterns and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk can provide valuable insights beyond the assessment of individual foods or nutrients. However, there is a lack of in-depth analysis of dietary patterns and CRC risk in Chinese populations, and few studies have compared dietary patterns derived from different posteriori methods with the aim of predicting disease risk. The aim of this study was to derive dietary patterns using both principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis (CA) and to assess their respective associations with CRC risk. A large-scale case-control study was conducted in Guangdong Province, China, including 2799 incident colorectal cancer cases and an equal number of frequency-matched controls. Dietary intake information was gathered through the use of a validated food frequency questionnaire. PCA and CA were used to derive dietary patterns. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to calculate the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Four major dietary patterns were identified by PCA. CA identified two dietary patterns, referred to as the “Balanced dietary pattern” and the “Refined grain dietary pattern”. Notably, there were significant inverse associations between the milk-egg-nut-soy dietary pattern (aOR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.42, 0.62), the vegetable-fruit dietary pattern (aOR, 0.61; 95%CI, 0.51, 0.74), and the poultry-fish dietary pattern (aOR, 0.81; 95%CI, 0.68, 0.97) and CRC risk. However, the red meat-preserved food dietary pattern was associated with an increased risk of CRC (aOR, 2.99; 95%CI, 2.43, 3.67). When compared with the Refined grain dietary pattern, the Balanced dietary pattern showed a decreased risk of CRC (aOR, 0.59; 95%CI, 0.52, 0.66). The results from the comparison of the two methods indicate that both CA and PCA derived remarkably similar patterns. The combined use of PCA and CA identified consistent underlying patterns, showing comparable associations with CRC risk. These findings suggest that individuals who prefer dietary patterns characterized by a high intake of red meat, preserved food, and refined grains should be cautious about their increased CRC risk. Conversely, dietary patterns rich in fruits, vegetables, and high-quality protein sources are advisable for the prevention of CRC in the Chinese population.
Non-invasive Ventilation Interventions for Skin Injury Prevention: Scoping Review
Authors: Azevedo Rita , Manuel Tânia , Alves Paulo
Published: December 2023

Background: Pressure ulcers associated with the non-invasive ventilation mask can significantly reduce the quality of life of the patient who needs this therapy. This study aims to identify clinical interventions to prevent skin lesions associated with the use of non-invasive ventilation medical devices. Methods: The Scoping Review followed the methodology of the Joanna Briggs Institute. For this study the research was carried out, during the month of January 2022, in several databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCOhost, RCAAP and OpenGrey, and studies published between 2010 and 2022 were included. Results: Of the 33 articles identified, 11 articles were included in this review, in which we identified several interventions for the prevention of skin lesions associated with the use of medical devices for non-invasive ventilation. The interventions identified include skin assessment, optimal fixation of the device, and the use of interfaces, namely, hydrocolloid or foam dressing under the NIV mask, among others Conclusion: This scoping review demonstrates that there is some scientific evidence for prevention, however the methodological approaches are very different, which makes it difficult to clearly describe the referenced interventions. This study was not registered.
The Role of the NRF2 Pathway in the Pathogenesis of Viral Respiratory Infections
Authors: Daskou Maria , Fotooh Abadi Leila , Gain Chandrima , Wong Michael , Sharma Eashan , Kombe Kombe Arnaud John , Nanduri Ravikanth , Kelesidis Theodoros
Published: December 2023

In humans, acute and chronic respiratory infections caused by viruses are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Respiratory viruses infect airway epithelial cells and induce oxidative stress, yet the exact pathogenesis remains unclear. Oxidative stress activates the transcription factor NRF2, which plays a key role in alleviating redox-induced cellular injury. The transcriptional activation of NRF2 has been reported to affect both viral replication and associated inflammation pathways. There is complex bidirectional crosstalk between virus replication and the NRF2 pathway because virus replication directly or indirectly regulates NRF2 expression, and NRF2 activation can reversely hamper viral replication and viral spread across cells and tissues. In this review, we discuss the complex role of the NRF2 pathway in the regulation of the pathogenesis of the main respiratory viruses, including coronaviruses, influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and rhinoviruses. We also summarize the scientific evidence regarding the effects of the known NRF2 agonists that can be utilized to alter the NRF2 pathway.
Tumor-Associated Macrophage Targeting of Nanomedicines in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Kang Xuejia , Huang Yongzhuo , Wang Huiyuan , Jadhav Sanika , Yue Zongliang , Tiwari Amit , Babu R.
Published: December 2023

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is pivotal in tumor growth and metastasis, aligning with the “Seed and Soil” theory. Within the TME, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a central role, profoundly influencing tumor progression. Strategies targeting TAMs have surfaced as potential therapeutic avenues, encompassing interventions to block TAM recruitment, eliminate TAMs, reprogram M2 TAMs, or bolster their phagocytic capabilities via specific pathways. Nanomaterials including inorganic materials, organic materials for small molecules and large molecules stand at the forefront, presenting significant opportunities for precise targeting and modulation of TAMs to enhance therapeutic efficacy in cancer treatment. This review provides an overview of the progress in designing nanoparticles for interacting with and influencing the TAMs as a significant strategy in cancer therapy. This comprehensive review presents the role of TAMs in the TME and various targeting strategies as a promising frontier in the ever-evolving field of cancer therapy. The current trends and challenges associated with TAM-based therapy in cancer are presented.
Transdermal Drug Delivery of Tazarotene: Determining Tazarotene’s Potential in Local Transdermal Therapy
Authors: Hamzehpour Helena , Óskarsdóttir Ástrós , Jónsson Helgi , Jónsdóttir Fjóla , Sigurjónsson Ólafur E. , Snorradottir Bergthora S.
Published: December 2023

Retinoid-based drugs, while effective, are associated with systemic toxicity. Topical alternatives offer a safer option, and tazarotene, a third-generation synthetic retinoid, holds promise. This study investigates tazarotene’s transdermal delivery potential, focusing on its application for joint-related conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate the suitability of tazarotene as a candidate for transdermal delivery into joints. In vitro permeation studies, using porcine skin, assessed tazarotene’s transdermal drug delivery from solution and gel formulations. A tape-stripping analysis determined stratum corneum retention and a pilot study using porcine joints assessed tazarotene’s ability to reach articular cartilage. Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with a mass detector method was used to quantify tazarotene and tazarotenic acid permeation. The results validate that tazarotene can permeate porcine skin and accumulate in articular cartilage in detectable amounts. The detection of tazarotene and tazarotenic acid in both the in vitro permeation studies and the pilot study on porcine joints validate the drug’s potential therapeutic use for hand osteoarthritis. This study lays the groundwork for future research, contributing insights into tazarotene’s potential for transdermal drug delivery and guiding further exploration in topical retinoid applications.
Preparation and Characterisation of Zinc Diethyldithiocarbamate–Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexes for Potential Lung Cancer Treatment
Authors: Kaya Ayşe , Arafat Basel , Chichger Havovi , Tolaymat Ibrahim , Pierscionek Barbara , Khoder Mouhamad , Najlah Mohammad
Published: December 2023

Zinc diethyldithiocarbamate (Zn (DDC)2), a disulfiram metabolite (anti-alcoholism drug), has shown a strong anti-cancer activity in vitro. However, its application was limited by its low aqueous solubility and rapid metabolism. In this study, the solubility enhancement of Zn (DDC)2 is investigated by forming inclusion complexes with cyclodextrins. The inclusion complexes were prepared using two different types of beta-cyclodextrins, SBE-CD and HP-CD. Phase solubility diagrams for the resulting solutions were assessed; subsequently, the solutions were freeze-dried for further characterisation studies using DSC, TGA, XRD, and FTIR. The cytotoxic activity of the produced inclusion complexes was evaluated on human lung carcinoma cells using the MTT assay. The solubility of Zn (DDC)2 increased significantly upon adding beta-cyclodextrins, reaching approximately 4 mg/mL for 20% w/w CD solutions. The phase solubility diagram of Zn (DDC)2 was of the Ap-type according to the Higuchi and Connors model. Characterisation studies confirmed the inclusion of the amorphous drug in the CD-Zn (DDC)2 complexes. The cytotoxicity of Zn (DDC)2 was enhanced 10-fold by the inclusion complexes compared to the free drug. Overall, the resulting CD-Zn (DDC)2 inclusion complexes have a potential for treatment against lung cancer.
Nose-to-Brain (N2B) Delivery: An Alternative Route for the Delivery of Biologics in the Management and Treatment of Central Nervous System Disorders
Authors: Patharapankal Elizabeth J. , Ajiboye Adejumoke Lara , Mattern Claudia , Trivedi Vivek
Published: December 2023

In recent years, there have been a growing number of small and large molecules that could be used to treat diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). Nose-to-brain delivery can be a potential option for the direct transport of molecules from the nasal cavity to different brain areas. This review aims to provide a compilation of current approaches regarding drug delivery to the CNS via the nose, with a focus on biologics. The review also includes a discussion on the key benefits of nasal delivery as a promising alternative route for drug administration and the involved pathways or mechanisms. This article reviews how the application of various auxiliary agents, such as permeation enhancers, mucolytics, in situ gelling/mucoadhesive agents, enzyme inhibitors, and polymeric and lipid-based systems, can promote the delivery of large molecules in the CNS. The article also includes a discussion on the current state of intranasal formulation development and summarizes the biologics currently in clinical trials. It was noted that significant progress has been made in this field, and these are currently being applied to successfully transport large molecules to the CNS via the nose. However, a deep mechanistic understanding of this route, along with the intimate knowledge of various excipients and their interactions with the drug and nasal physiology, is still necessary to bring us one step closer to developing effective formulations for nasal–brain drug delivery.
Improving Inhalation Performance with Particle Agglomeration via Combining Mechanical Dry Coating and Ultrasonic Vibration
Authors: Zhang Qingzhen , Wang Zheng , Shi Kaiqi , Zhou Hang , Wei Xiaoyang , Hall Philip
Published: December 2023

Agglomerate formulations for dry powder inhalation (DPI) formed with fine particles are versatile means for the highly efficient delivery of budesonide. However, uncontrolled agglomeration induces high deposition in the upper airway, causing local side effects due to high mechanical strength, worse deagglomeration, and poor fine-particle delivery. In the present study, fine lactose was mechanically dry-coated prior to particle agglomeration, and the agglomerates were then spheroidized via ultrasonic vibration to improve their aerosol performance. The results showed that the agglomerate produced with the surface-enriched hydrophobic magnesium stearate and ultrasonic vibration demonstrated improved aerosolization properties, benefiting from their lower mechanical strength, less interactive cohesive force, and improved fine powder dispersion behavior. After dispersion utilizing a Turbuhaler® with a pharmaceutical cascade impactor test, a fine particle fraction (FPF) of 71.1 ± 1.3% and an artificial throat deposition of 19.3 ± 0.4% were achieved, suggesting the potential to improve the therapeutic outcomes of budesonide with less localized infections of the mouth and pharynx.
Answering the Call for Community Pharmacists to Improve Healthcare Delivery to Trans and Gender Diverse People: Guide for Designing, Implementing, and Evaluating an Online Education Program in Australia
Authors: Chaudhary Swapna , Ray Robin A. , Glass Beverley D.
Published: December 2023

Background: Trans and gender-diverse people visiting pharmacies may not always receive optimum care due to pharmacists’ lack of knowledge and confidence to provide such care. This situation prompts a need for training. Objectives: This paper aimed to describe a guide to the design, implementation, and evaluation of a training program on transgender healthcare for pharmacists in Australia. Methods: The Implementation Mapping Framework provided a foundation for the design, implementation, and evaluation of this training program. Through active involvement in the program development, trans and gender diverse people and pharmacists guided the program design, ensuring alignment with the cultural, social, and healthcare contexts. Results: The needs analysis highlighted the necessity for training for pharmacists to improve their cultural awareness and pharmacotherapeutic knowledge about transgender healthcare. Applying a novel Gender Inclusivity in Pharmacy Framework, online modules—(1) Transgender healthcare—language, terminology, and key healthcare issues, (2) Gender-affirming therapies, and (3) Case studies in transgender healthcare—were developed to enable the implementation of a training program. Conclusion: The Implementation Mapping Framework and the Gender Inclusivity in Pharmacy Framework proved effective tools for providing an education program for pharmacists.
Stationary High-Energy Pulse Generation in Er-Based Fiber Lasers via Quasi-Synchronous Gain Modulation
Authors: Nyushkov Boris , Ivanenko Aleksey , Koliada Natalia , Smirnov Sergey
Published: December 2023

We demonstrate the feasibility of triggering stationary high-energy pulse generation in Er-doped fiber lasers at ~1.5 µm via quasi-synchronous gain modulation. This simple method relies upon the sine-wave modulation of pump power at a frequency slightly surpassing the intrinsic frequency spacing of longitudinal modes in the laser cavity. This was previously implemented only in Yb-doped fiber lasers at ~1.1 µm. Here, for the first time, we experimentally validate the pulse shaping capabilities of this method also in Er fiber lasers, which, unlike Yb fiber lasers, have a three-level laser energy diagram (when pumped at 0.98 µm) with a very long-lived (10 ms) upper laser level. The feasibility of the method was validated both for normal and anomalous intracavity dispersion, which was not available in previous implementations in Yb fiber lasers at ~1.1 µm. Thus, the stable generation of a regular train of discrete nanosecond pulses with an energy of up to 180 nJ was achieved in our test-bed Er fiber laser upon the quasi-synchronous sine-wave modulation of the pump power at 0.98 µm. The results of our study testify to the general applicability of this affordable and reliable method for high-energy pulse generation in various rare-earth-doped fiber lasers.
382 mW External-Cavity Frequency Doubling 461 nm Laser Based on Quasi-Phase Matching
Authors: Chen Yingxin , Zhao Guodong , Tan Wei , Chang Hong
Published: December 2023

To rapidly improve strontium optical clocks, a high-power, high-efficiency, and high-beam-quality 461 nm laser is required. In blue lasers based on periodically poled KTiOPO4 crystals, the optical absorption in the crystals can induce thermal effects, which must be considered in the design of high-efficiency external-cavity frequency doubling lasers. The interdependence between the absorption and the thermally induced quasi-phase mismatch was taken into account for the solution to the coupled wave equations. By incorporating multilayer crystal approximation, a theoretical model was developed to accurately determine the absorption of the frequency doubling laser. Based on experimental parameters, the temperature gradient in the crystal, the influence of the boundary temperature on the conversion efficiency, and the focal length of the thermal lens were simulated. Theoretical calculations were employed to optimize the parameters of the external-cavity frequency doubling experiment. In the experiment, in a bow-tie external cavity was demonstrated by pumping a 10 mm long periodically poled KTiOPO4 crystal with a 922 nm laser, a 461 nm laser with a maximum output power of 382 mW. The conversion efficiency of the incident fundamental laser was 66.2%. The M2 factor of the frequency doubling beam was approximately 1.4.
Target Detection in Single-Photon Lidar Using CNN Based on Point Cloud Method
Authors: Su Zhigang , Hu Chengxu , Hao Jingtang , Ge Peng , Han Bing
Published: December 2023

To enhance the detection capability of weak targets and reduce the dependence of single-photon lidar target detection on the number of the time-correlated single-photon counting detection cycles, a convolutional neural network (CNN) based on the point cloud (CNN-PC) method is proposed in this paper for detecting targets in single-photon lidar. This approach utilizes the exceptional feature extraction capabilities offered by CNN. The CNN-PC method utilizes the feature extraction module of the trained CNN to simultaneously extract features from two-dimensional point cloud slices. Subsequently, it combines these features and feeds them into the classification module of the trained CNN for final target detection. By training the CNN using point cloud slices generated with a minimal number of detection cycles and employing a parallel structure to extract features from multiple point cloud slices, the CNN-PC method exhibits remarkable flexibility in adapting to varying numbers of detection cycles. Both simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the CNN-PC method outperforms the classical constant false alarm rate method in terms of the target detection probability at the same signal-to-noise ratio and in terms of the imaging rate and error rate at the same number of detection cycles.
FSK/ASK Orthogonal Modulation System Based on Novel Noncoherent Detection and Electronic Dispersion Compensation for Short-Reach Optical Communications
Authors: Xin Lei , Xu Xiao , Du Liuge , Zhao Jia
Published: December 2023

We propose an FSK/ASK orthogonal modulation system based on a novel noncoherent detection (NCD) scheme, aimed at expanding the system capacity for short-reach optical communications cost-effectively. In the transmitter, the FSK optical signal is generated by simple frequency modulation through a directly modulated distributed feedback laser. Subsequently, by utilizing a Mach–Zehnder modulator for ASK modulation, the FSK/ASK optical signal is obtained. The novel and low-complexity NCD receiver consists of an intensity detection branch and a frequency detection branch. The frequency detection branch is composed of an optical differentiator, a photodetector, and frequency extraction circuits. Notably, the proposed NCD scheme overcomes the limitation of the traditional FSK/ASK-NCD receiver stemming from the trade-off between the detected signal quality of the amplitude and frequency. Furthermore, electronic dispersion compensation (EDC) is available. Through numerical simulations, our findings demonstrate that the proposed FSK/ASK-NCD system, assisted by EDC, achieves a remarkable 100 km transmission span for both 40 Gbps 2FSK/2ASK and 60 Gbps 2FSK/4ASK modulation formats, which surpasses the 2ASK-DD and the 4ASK-DD systems, where the maximum achievable spans are limited to less than 20 km. These results underscore the potential of the proposed system as a robust candidate for future passive optical access networks.
Production of the Macroalgae Ulva lactuca Integrated with the Shrimp Penaeus vannamei in a Biofloc System: Effect of Total Suspended Solids and Nutrient Concentrations
Authors: Carvalho Andrezza , Braga Ítalo , Chaar Florencia , Cardozo Alessandro Pereira , Monserrat José María , Ramírez Juan Rafael Buitrago , Wasielesky Wilson , Poersch Luís H.
Published: December 2023

This study focused on evaluating the effect of different concentrations of nutrients and total suspended solids on the removal rate of nutrients and biocompounds from the macroalgae U. lactuca in an integrated system with the shrimp Penaeus vannamei in biofloc. The experiment lasted 45 days and included five treatments with three replicates each, with percentages of 0 (control), 25, 50, 75, and 100% biofloc inoculum (73.3 ± 5.7 and 325.0 ± 21.2 mg L−1 initial nitrate and solids, respectively, in the 100% inoculum), from a shrimp farm, resulting in different concentrations of solids and nutrients. The macroalgae were introduced into 280 L tanks at a density of 0.88 kg m−2, along with 200 shrimp m−3. The algae were separated by a floating structure. Water quality parameters were measured, and the nutrient removal rate was evaluated. The treatment with 75% inoculum showed a removal rate of 55.0 ± 4.0 and 31.0 ± 10.0% of nitrate and phosphate, respectively. There was no difference in macroalgae growth between the treatments; however, macroalgae grown in 75% inoculum had higher protein, chlorophyll-a, and lower ash values compared with the control. The use of macroalgae in integrated production with shrimp under the conditions of the treatment with 75% biofloc inoculum proved to be viable and sustainable.
Pharmacognostic Evaluation of Monarda didyma L. Growing in Trentino (Northern Italy) for Cosmeceutical Applications
Authors: Smeriglio Antonella , Ingegneri Mariarosaria , Germanò Maria Paola , Miori Luigi , Battistini Giulia , Betuzzi Federica , Malaspina Paola , Trombetta Domenico , Cornara Laura
Published: December 2023

Monarda didyma L. (Lamiaceae) is a medicinal and aromatic herb native to eastern North America and now is also cultivated in Northern Italy, which shows terminal heads of bright scarlet-red flowers, subtended by a whorl of red-tinged leafy bracts. Starting from 2018, M. didyma flowering tops have been included in the Belfrit List of botanicals. However, to date studies on the crude extract of this plant are still lacking. The aim of the present study was to investigate the morphological and anatomical features of the flowering tops and the phytochemical profile of their ethanolic and hydroglyceric extracts (EE and HGE, respectively). HGE was the richest in total phenols (105.75 ± 5.91 vs. 64.22 ± 3.45 mg/100 mL) and especially in flavonoids (71.60 ± 5.09 vs. 47.70 ± 1.27 mg/100 mL), as confirmed also by LC-DAD-ESI-MS. Fifty-three polyphenols were identified and quantified. Even if they showed a common polyphenolic profile, EE and HGE showed quantitative differences. Flavan-3-ols and anthocyanins were the most expressed metabolites in HGE, whereas flavonols were the most expressed metabolites in EE. These features confer to HGE the highest antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-angiogenic properties, detected by several in vitro and in vivo assays, highlighting a promising use of this plant extract for skincare applications.