bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Path of Reclaimed Water Utilization Policy in China: Visual Analysis Based on CNKI and WOS
Authors: Li Junjie , Dai Xin , Zhang Bei , Sun Xuehang , Liu Bangfan
Published: September 2022

In this paper, CiteSpace and NVivo software were used for the knowledge graph visualization and content analysis of highly cited papers in the research literature on reclaimed water utilization policy in CNKI and WOS. The results showed the following: there was an upward trend in the number of papers on reclaimed water policy, papers in both databases attached great importance to research on this topic, and the research prospects for this topic are broad. The UK, Greece, Italy, the United States, and France have great influence in the field of reclaimed water utilization policy research. The international influence of China’s research on the topic needs to be improved. There is a lack of communication and cooperation among the subjects of reclaimed water utilization policy research, and a cooperative network with close and benign interactions has not yet been formed. The research hotspots of the topic in China are mainly focused on regional governance, with insufficient attention paid to policy and management, while foreign countries pay more attention to policy and management. Behavior guidance policy and black and smelly water will become research hotspots for domestic policies, while public perception, demand, drinking water, and carbon will become research hotspots for international policies. Domestic research on reclaimed water use policy in highly cited papers focused on water environment and ecological security management, while international research focused on the background of reclaimed water use policy and its implementation, with the main intention of optimizing the ascension path and making international research policies thematically stronger. The attitudes of domestic and foreign researchers regarding reclaimed water utilization policies are mainly rational and emotional, indicating that current policies have a degree of applicability. However, there are also obvious problems that will need to be addressed and improved, and there are substantial development prospects. In the future, research on reclaimed water utilization policies in China should strengthen top-level design, improve the policy system, and increase the supervision of policies to achieve optimization.
Assessment of Biobanking Knowledge and Attitudes towards Biospecimen Donation among Healthcare Providers in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Buhmeida Abdelbaset , Assidi Mourad , Alyazidi Omar , Olwi Duaa Ibrahim , Althuwaylimi Ahmed , Yahya Fatimah M. , Arfaoui Leila , Merdad Leena , Abuzenadah Adel Mohammad
Published: September 2022

Background: Biobanking is a critical cornerstone of the global shift towards precision medicine (PM). This transformation requires smooth and informed interaction between a range of stakeholders involved in the healthcare system. In Saudi Arabia, there is still insufficient awareness of the importance of biobanking and its potential benefits for patients, the healthcare system, and society as a whole. The purpose of this study was to determine the biobanking knowledge of Saudi healthcare providers and the potential factors that might influence their self-reported attitudes toward biospecimen donation and biobanking. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted targeting 636 healthcare providers in Makkah province using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Results: The study had a response rate of 61%. The mean knowledge level about biobanks was 3.5 (±1.8) out of 7. About one-third of the participants were aware of the Human Genome Project (HGP) (35%) or the term “biobank” (34%). The mean rating of their attitude was 37.3 (±4.3) out of 55. Most participants (74%) had a positive attitude toward medical research. Job position, general health, previous blood tests, knowledge of biobanking, and attitudes toward biomedical research were significantly related and predictors of willingness to donate biospecimens (p < 0.05). However, concerns about biospecimen misuse and confidentiality were the main reasons for not donating biospecimens. Conclusions: This study has shown that healthcare providers mostly lack basic knowledge about HGP and biobanks and their roles and activities, and therefore are generally disinclined to actively participate in biospecimens’ collection and management. It is recommended that medical trainees receive more education and awareness about biobanks and the latest personalized healthcare approaches to improve translational research outcomes and achieve precision medicine.
Does Dominant Somatotype Differentiate Performance of Jumping and Sprinting Variables in Young Healthy Adults?
Authors: Cinarli Fahri Safa , Buyukcelebi Hakan , Esen Ozcan , Barasinska Magdalena , Cepicka Ladislav , Gabrys Tomasz , Nalbant Umut , Karayigit Raci
Published: September 2022

The relationship between an athlete’s somatotype three-numeral rating and his or her athletic performance is well known. However, a direct effect of the different dominant somatotype on jumping and sprinting variables has not yet been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dominant somatotype on sport-specific explosive variables. One hundred and twelve physically active young adults (mean ± standard deviation age: 21.82 ± 3.18 years) were somatotype-rated using the Heath–Carter method. Participants were classified as balanced ectomorph, balanced mesomorph, central, mesomorph-endomorph, and mesomorphic ectomorph. Vertical jump and linear sprint tests were performed to measure peak lower body performance and sprint variables (time, speed, and momentum), respectively. The analysis revealed that balanced mesomorph had significantly higher vertical jump (effect size (ES) = 1.10, p = 0.005) and power to body mass (ES = 1.04, p = 0.023) than mesomorph-endomorph. In addition, balanced mesomorph showed significantly superior performance in 30-m sprint time and velocity than central and mesomorph-endomorph (ES range = 0.93–1, p < 0.05). Finally, balanced ectomorph (ES = 1.12, p = 0.009) and mesomorphic ectomorph (ES = 1.10, p = 0.017) were lower in sprint momentum compared to balanced mesomorphs. In conclusion, this study has shown the importance of the interaction between subtypes and athletic performance. The knowledge gained may be important in identifying those who tend to perform well in sports with explosive power and in prescribing training programs.
GO-TiO2 as a Highly Performant Photocatalyst Maximized by Proper Parameters Selection
Authors: Díez Aida M. , Pazos Marta , Sanromán M. Ángeles , Kolen’ko Yury V.
Published: September 2022

The synthesis and characterization of novel graphene oxide coupled to TiO2 (GO-TiO2) was carried out in order to better understand the performance of this photocatalyst, when compared to well-known TiO2 (P25) from Degussa. Thus, its physical-chemical characterization (FTIR, XRD, N2 isotherms and electrochemical measurements) describes high porosity, suitable charge and high electron mobility, which enhance pollutant degradation. In addition, the importance of the reactor set up was highlighted, testing the effect of both the irradiated area and distance between lamp and bulb solution. Under optimal conditions, the model drug methylthioninium chloride (MC) was degraded and several parameters were assessed, such as the water matrix and the catalyst reutilization, a possibility given the addition of H2O2. The results in terms of energy consumption compete with those attained for the treatment of this model pollutant, opening a path for further research.
Effects of Self-Efficacy and Outcome Expectations on Motor Imagery-Induced Thermal and Mechanical Hypoalgesia: A Single-Blind Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Cuenca-Martínez Ferran , Bocos-Corredor Elena , Espinosa-Giménez África , Barrero-Santiago Laura , Nefa-Díaz Naira , Canchal-Crespo David , Varangot-Reille Clovis , Herranz-Gómez Aida , Suso-Martí Luis , Sempere-Rubio Núria , La Touche Roy
Published: September 2022

The main aim of this study was to assess whether self-efficacy (SE) and outcome expectations (OEs) modulate the hypoalgesic effect induced by motor imagery (MI). A total of 75 asymptomatic participants were randomly assigned to the positive (SE+, OE+), negative (SE−, OE−) or non-expectation (CG) groups. Heat pain threshold (HPT) and pain pressure threshold (PPT) were the main variables. Cold detection threshold (CDT), warm detection threshold (WDT), heart rate (HR) and perceived fatigue were the secondary variables. The variables were assessed preintervention, immediately postintervention and 10 min postintervention, except for HR, which was measured continuously during the intervention. Regarding HPT, significant within-group pre-post differences were found in the OE+ group, with a low effect size (p = 0.01, d = −0.39). With regard to ΔPPT, significant intergroup differences were found in Δpost-pre between the SE+ and CG groups (p = 0.012, d = 1.04) and also between SE+ and OE− (p = 0.006, d = 1.08), both with a large effect size. CG, SE−, and OE− groups had poorer CDT and WDT. Regarding HR, significant intergroup differences were found in the postintervention measurement between OE+ and SE−, with a large effect size (p = 0.016, d = 1.34). Lastly, no between-group differences were found regarding perceived fatigue (p > 0.05). The results obtained showed that positive expectations have a slight influence on the increase in heat and mechanical pain detection thresholds. Positive and non-expectancy groups showed an autonomic activation. The results also showed that negative expectations led to poorer perceptual processes.
Multidimensional Factors Affecting Successful Aging among Empty-Nesters in China Based on Social-Ecological System Theory
Authors: Chang Hui , Zhou Jia , Wang Zhiwen
Published: September 2022

Background: This study aims to identify the status of successful aging and the factors influencing empty-nest elderly in China based on the social-ecological system theory. Methods: The data came from the follow-up survey (2018) of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study and 3074 empty-nesters aged 60 and over are included. Chi-squared tests and logistic regressions were used to identify factors associated with successful aging. Results: The successful aging rate of empty-nesters in China was 5.9%. The results of the multifactor analysis showed that younger age, higher education level, good self-rated health, good hearing, high life satisfaction, availability of financial resources at the microsystem level, higher frequency of contact with children at the mesosystem level, and medical insurance at the macrosystem level were the contributing influencing factors for successful aging of empty-nesters in China. Conclusion: This study is an important attempt to explore the successful aging of empty-nesters in China. Because this study is based on social-ecological system theory, it confirms the important role of individual characteristics of older adults and their surrounding environment in achieving successful aging. Therefore, we should pay attention not only to the individual characteristics of the elderly, but also to the role of the surrounding environment on the health of the elderly, so that we can develop intervention measures to promote their successful aging.
Rational Choice or Altruism Factor: Determinants of Residents’ Behavior toward Household Waste Separation in Xi’an, China
Authors: Yin Zhaoyun , Ma Jing
Published: September 2022

Understanding why people do or do not perform household waste separation is a vital premise for designing relevant policies to promote waste management. As such, in this paper, an empirical study was carried out to explore the impacts of both rational choice and altruism factors on residents’ household waste separation behavior. Through the analysis of the survey sample (n = 1102) from Xi’an, China, using structural equation modeling, the main findings suggested that (i) the rational choice model can better explain such behavior, (ii) the altruism factor cannot directly affect household waste separation behavior, (iii) the altruism factor is highly correlated with the attitude determinant of household waste separation behavior, and (iv) rational choice models incorporating the altruism factor may have better explanatory efficacy. After that, some factors influencing residents’ altruism to household waste separation were identified. The main aim of this study was to compare two different tendencies in explaining sustainable behavior and help to find a better framework for behavior analysis.
Promoting Mental Health Help-Seeking Behaviors by Mental Health Literacy Interventions in Secondary Education? Needs and Perspectives of Adolescents and Educational Professionals
Authors: Beukema Lindy , Tullius Janne M. , Korevaar Lies , Hofstra Jacomijn , Reijneveld Sijmen A. , de Winter Andrea F.
Published: September 2022

Mental health literacy (MHL) interventions in secondary schools may help to improve competencies that adolescents require to stay mentally healthy and seek help if mental health problems arise. These MHL interventions should be tailored to the needs of adolescents and educational professionals (EPs) to reach sustainable implementation and long-term effectiveness. However, evidence is lacking on these needs. Thus, our aim was to explore their experiences with, and perspectives on, mental health help seeking and needs regarding MHL interventions. We performed online focus group discussions and interviews with adolescents (n = 21; 13–19 years) and EPs (n = 12) and analyzed the data using directed content analysis. We identified three themes related to mental health help seeking: (1) Limited MHL competencies of adolescents, (2) Limited competencies of EP to provide mental health support, and (3) Limited mental health promotion in the school environment. We further identified three themes regarding MHL interventions: (1) Addressing basic mental health knowledge and skills, (2) Interactive and easily accessible, and (3) Sustainable implementation. Improving the MHL competencies of adolescents and EPs, and creating a mental health-literate school environment can promote adolescents’ mental health help seeking. Our findings highlight the importance of developing MHL interventions that are tailored to both adolescents’ and EPs needs.
Inhibition of Borrelia Burgdorferi-Induced TLR2-NFκB Canonical Signaling by Gallic Acid through Targeting the CD14+ Adaptor Protein and p65 Molecule
Authors: Goc Anna , Rath Matthias , Niedzwiecki Aleksandra
Published: September 2022

The cases of Lyme disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi infection have been increasing throughout Northern America and Europe. This pathogen, if not treated in a timely manner with antibiotics, can cause persisting and debilitating health outcomes. In the search for novel agents against B. burgdorferi, we investigated a phenolic compound—gallic acid—for its anti-Borrelia and anti-inflammatory effects. Our results showed its biocidal effect starting from 100 μg/mL against active spirochetes, persisters/round-shaped bodies, and biofilm like aggregates of B. burgdorferi sensu stricto. Activation of macrophages by live B. burgdorferi also resulted in a robust NFκB-dependent proinflammatory responses seen in increased production of cytokines. Using human CD14+ macrophages in vitro, we showed that CD14+ adaptor and phosphorylated p65 molecule are impeded at nonbiocidal and noncytotoxic concentrations of gallic acid, resulting in the inhibition of both expression and secretion of cytokines IL1β, IL6, and TNFα. Our findings demonstrate efficacy of gallic acid against B. burgdorferi and provide potential mechanistic insight into its TLR2/CD14+-NFκB mediated mode of action. Further studies on the potential of gallic acid as a safe and effective compound against Borrelia-caused infection are warranted.
The Chromosome Number and rDNA Loci Evolution in Onobrychis (Fabaceae)
Authors: Yucel Gulru , Betekhtin Alexander , Cabi Evren , Tuna Metin , Hasterok Robert , Kolano Bozena
Published: September 2022

The evolution of chromosome number and ribosomal DNA (rDNA) loci number and localisation were studied in Onobrychis Mill. Diploid and tetraploid species, as well as two basic chromosome numbers, x = 7 and x = 8, were observed among analysed taxa. The chromosomal distribution of rDNA loci was presented here for the first time using fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) with 5S and 35S rDNA probes. Onobrychis species showed a high polymorphism in the number and localisation of rDNA loci among diploids, whereas the rDNA loci pattern was very similar in polyploids. Phylogenetic relationships among the species, inferred from nrITS sequences, were used as a framework to reconstruct the patterns of basic chromosome number and rDNA loci evolution. Analysis of the evolution of the basic chromosome numbers allowed the inference of x = 8 as the ancestral number and the descending dysploidy and polyploidisation as the major mechanisms of the chromosome number evolution. Analyses of chromosomal patterns of rRNA gene loci in a phylogenetic context resulted in the reconstruction of one locus of 5S rDNA and one locus of 35S rDNA in the interstitial chromosomal position as the ancestral state in this genus.
The Antiaging Activities of Phytochemicals in Dark-Colored Plant Foods: Involvement of the Autophagy- and Apoptosis-Associated Pathways
Authors: Luo Mengliu , Mai Meiqing , Song Wanhan , Yuan Qianhua , Feng Xiaoling , Xia Enqin , Guo Honghui
Published: September 2022

In the last two decades, human life expectancy has increased by about 10 years, but this has not been accompanied by a corresponding increase in healthy lifespan. Aging is associated with a wide range of human disorders, including cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Delaying the aging of organs or tissues and improving the physiological functions of the elderly can reduce the risk of aging-related diseases. Autophagy and apoptosis are crucial mechanisms for cell survival and tissue homeostasis, and may also be primary aging-regulatory pathways. Recent epidemiological studies have shown that eating more colorful plant foods could increase life expectancy. Several representative phytochemicals in dark-colored plant foods such as quercetin, catechin, curcumin, anthocyanins, and lycopene have apparent antiaging potential. Nevertheless, the antiaging signaling pathways of the phytochemicals from dark-colored plant foods remain elusive. In the present review, we summarized autophagy- and apoptosis-associated targeting pathways of those phytochemicals and discussed the core targets involved in the antiaging effects. Further clinical evaluation and exploitation of phytochemicals as antiaging agents are needed to develop novel antiaging therapeutics for preventing age-related diseases and improving a healthy lifespan.
Stable Magnetorheological Fluids Containing Bidisperse Fillers with Compact/Mesoporous Silica Coatings
Authors: Cvek Martin , Jamatia Thaiskang , Suly Pavol , Urbanek Michal , Torres-Mendieta Rafael
Published: September 2022

A drawback of magnetorheological fluids is low kinetic stability, which severely limits their practical utilization. This paper describes the suppression of sedimentation through a combination of bidispersal and coating techniques. A magnetic, sub-micro additive was fabricated and sequentially coated with organosilanes. The first layer was represented by compact silica, while the outer layer consisted of mesoporous silica, obtained with the oil–water biphase stratification method. The success of the modification technique was evidenced with transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The coating exceptionally increased the specific surface area, from 47 m2/g (neat particles) up to 312 m2/g, which when combined with lower density, resulted in remarkable improvement in the sedimentation profile. At this expense, the compact/mesoporous silica slightly diminished the magnetization of the particles, while the magnetorheological performance remained at an acceptable level, as evaluated with a modified version of the Cross model. Sedimentation curves were, for the first time in magnetorheology, modelled via a novel five-parameter equation (S-model) that showed a robust fitting capability. The sub-micro additive prevented the primary carbonyl iron particles from aggregation, which was projected into the improved sedimentation behavior (up to a six-fold reduction in the sedimentation rate). Detailed focus was also given to analyze the implications of the sub-micro additives and their surface texture on the overall behavior of the bidisperse magnetorheological fluids.
Current Molecular Combination Therapies Used for the Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Yiling , Minden Audrey
Published: September 2022

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death for women worldwide. While monotherapy (single agent) treatments have been used for many years, they are not always effective, and many patients relapse after initial treatment. Moreover, in some patients the response to therapy becomes weaker, or resistance to monotherapy develops over time. This is especially problematic for metastatic breast cancer or triple-negative breast cancer. Recently, combination therapies (in which two or more drugs are used to target two or more pathways) have emerged as promising new treatment options. Combination therapies are often more effective than monotherapies and demonstrate lower levels of toxicity during long-term treatment. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of current combination therapies, including molecular-targeted therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy. We also describe the molecular basis of breast cancer and the various treatment options for different breast cancer subtypes. While combination therapies are promising, we also discuss some of the challenges. Despite these challenges, the use of innovative combination therapy holds great promise compared with traditional monotherapies. In addition, the use of multidisciplinary technologies (such as nanotechnology and computer technology) has the potential to optimize combination therapies even further.
Exosomal Micro-RNAs as Intercellular Communicators in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Negrete-García María Cristina , de Jesús Ramos-Abundis Javier , Alvarado-Vasquez Noé , Montes-Martínez Eduardo , Montaño Martha , Ramos Carlos , Sommer Bettina
Published: September 2022

Communication between neighboring or distant cells is made through a complex network that includes extracellular vesicles (EVs). Exosomes, which are a subgroup of EVs, are released from most cell types and have been found in biological fluids such as urine, plasma, and airway secretions like bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), nasal lavage, saliva, and sputum. Mainly, the cargo exosomes are enriched with mRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs), which can be transferred to a recipient cell consequently modifying and redirecting its biological function. The effects of miRNAs derive from their role as gene expression regulators by repressing or degrading their target mRNAs. Nowadays, various types of research are focused on evaluating the potential of exosomal miRNAs as biomarkers for the prognosis and diagnosis of different pathologies. Nevertheless, there are few reports on their role in the pathophysiology of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic lung disease characterized by progressive lung scarring with no cure. In this review, we focus on the role and effect of exosomal miRNAs as intercellular communicators in the onset and progression of IPF, as well as discussing their potential utility as therapeutic agents for the treatment of this disease.
Considering the Genetic Architecture of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Belmont John W.
Published: September 2022

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is among the most severe cardiovascular malformations and understanding its causes is crucial to making progress in prevention and treatment. Genetic analysis is a broadly useful tool for dissecting complex causal mechanisms and it is playing a significant role in HLHS research. However, unlike classical Mendelian disorders where a relatively small number of genes are largely determinative of the occurrence and severity of the disease, the picture in HLHS is complex. De novo single-gene and copy number variant (CNV) disorders make an important contribution, but there is emerging evidence for causal contributions from lower penetrance and common variation. Integrating this emerging knowledge into clinical diagnostics and translating the findings into effective prevention and treatment remain challenges for the future.
Nature’s Most Fruitful Threesome: The Relationship between Yeasts, Insects, and Angiosperms
Authors: Fenner Eduardo D. , Scapini Thamarys , da Costa Diniz Mariana , Giehl Anderson , Treichel Helen , Álvarez-Pérez Sergio , Alves Sérgio L.
Published: September 2022

The importance of insects for angiosperm pollination is widely recognized. In fact, approximately 90% of all plant species benefit from animal-mediated pollination. However, only recently, a third part player in this story has been properly acknowledged. Microorganisms inhabiting floral nectar, among which yeasts have a prominent role, can ferment glucose, fructose, sucrose, and/or other carbon sources in this habitat. As a result of their metabolism, nectar yeasts produce diverse volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other valuable metabolites. Notably, some VOCs of yeast origin can influence insects’ foraging behavior, e.g., by attracting them to flowers (although repelling effects have also been reported). Moreover, when insects feed on nectar, they also ingest yeast cells, which provide them with nutrients and protect them from pathogenic microorganisms. In return, insects serve yeasts as transportation and a safer habitat during winter when floral nectar is absent. From the plant’s point of view, the result is flowers being pollinated. From humanity’s perspective, this ecological relationship may also be highly profitable. Therefore, prospecting nectar-inhabiting yeasts for VOC production is of major biotechnological interest. Substances such as acetaldehyde, ethyl acetate, ethyl butyrate, and isobutanol have been reported in yeast volatomes, and they account for a global market of approximately USD 15 billion. In this scenario, the present review addresses the ecological, environmental, and biotechnological outlooks of this three-party mutualism, aiming to encourage researchers worldwide to dig into this field.
Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Calonectria foliicola Associated with Leaf Blight on Rubber Tree (Hevea brasiliensis) in Thailand
Authors: Thaochan Narit , Pornsuriya Chaninun , Chairin Thanunchanok , Chomnunti Putarak , Sunpapao Anurag
Published: September 2022

Leaf blight is commonly observed in rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis) and can be caused by several fungal species. From October to December 2021, the emergence rubber tree disease was observed in Krabi province, southern Thailand. Small brown to dark brown spots developed on the leaves of rubber trees and later expanded into most parts of the leaves. Fungal isolates were isolated from infected tissues and a total of 15 Calonectria-like isolates were recovered from 10 infected leaf samples. Pathogenicity testing using the agar plug method revealed that four isolates caused leaf blight on rubber tree, similar to the situation in natural infections. Based on morphological study and the molecular properties of internal transcribed spacer (ITS), calmodulin (cal), translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α), and β-tubulin 2 (tub2) sequences, the four fungal isolates were identified as Calonectria foliicola. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of rubber trees pas a new host for C. foliicola in Thailand and elsewhere. This study reports on an emerging disease affecting rubber trees in Thailand, and the results are of benefit for the development of an appropriate method to manage this emerging disease in Thailand.
Shari’a Governance in Bahrain: Analysing the Islamic Banking Industry’s Implementation of the Newly Issued Regulatory Shari’a Governance Module
Authors: Al-Saadi Abdulrahman , Hassan M. Kabir , Alkhan Ahmed Mansoor
Published: September 2022

Shari’a governance is considered a crucial element of the Islamic banking industry. As recent as 2017, Islamic banks in the Kingdom of Bahrain were required by the regulator to have only a Shari’a Supervisory Board and an internal Shari’a function. In 2017, the Central Bank of Bahrain issued a new Shari’a Governance module (SG) in its rulebook, requiring all Islamic banks to have at least two internal Shari’a departments instead of one, mandated external Shari’a auditing, and maintaining the necessity of having a Shari’a Supervisory Board. In this study, through an empirical enquiry, we analyse how the Islamic banking industry implemented this new module. The empirical results revealed that there seems to be an implementation gap between Islamic retail and wholesale banks, where the former have fully implemented the new Shari’a governance requirements, while the latter were given exemptions to postpone its implementation.
Interface Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Al/Steel Bimetallic Composites Fabricated by Liquid-Solid Casting with Rare Earth Eu Additions
Authors: Mao Feng , Zhang Po , Wei Shizhong , Chen Chong , Zhang Guoshang , Xiong Mei , Wang Tao , Guo Junliang , Wang Changji
Published: September 2022

To improve the Al/Steel bimetallic interface, Eu was firstly added to the Al/Steel bimetallic interface made by liquid-solid casting. The effects of Eu addition on the microstructure, mechanical capacities, and rupture behavior of the Al/Steel bimetallic interface was studied in detail. As the addition of 0.1 wt.% Eu, the morphology of eutectic Si changed from coarse plate-like to fine fibrous and granular in Al-Si alloys, and the average thickness of the intermetallic compounds layer decreased to a minimum value of 7.96 μm. In addition, there was a more sudden drop of Fe in steel side and the Si in Al side was observed to be more than the other conditions. The addition of Eu did not change the kinds of intermetallic compounds in the Al/steel reaction layer, which was composed of Al5Fe2, τ1-(Al, Si)5Fe3, Al13Fe4, τ5-Al7Fe2Si, and τ6-Al9Fe2Si2 phases. The addition of the element Eu did not change the preferential orientation of the Al5Fe2, τ1-(Al, Si)5Fe3, Al13Fe4, τ5-Al7Fe2Si, and τ6-Al9Fe2Si2 phases, but refined the grain size of each phase and decreased the polar density of Al5Fe2 phase. Eu was mainly enriched in the front of the ternary compound layer (τ6-Al9Fe2Si2) near the Al side and steel matrix. The Fe and Al element distribution area tended to narrow in the interface after the addition of 0.1 wt.% Eu, which is probably because that Eu inhibits the spread of Al atoms along the c-axis direction of the Al5Fe2 phase and the growth of Al13Fe4, τ5-Al7Fe2Si, and τ6-Al9Fe2Si2 phases. When the Eu content was 0.1 wt.%, the shear strength of the Al/Steel bimetal achieved a maximum of 31.21 MPa, which was 47% higher than the bimetal without Eu.
Controlling the Oxygen Defects Concentration in a Pure BiFeO3 Bulk Ceramic
Authors: Tuluk Anton , Brouwer Hans , van der Zwaag Sybrand
Published: September 2022

BiFeO3 is a multiferroic material with a perovskite structure that has a lot of potential for use in sensors and transducers. However, obtaining pure single-phase BiFeO3 ceramic with a low electrical conductivity via solid-state reactions remains a problem that limits its application. In this work, the suppression of secondary phases in BiFeO3 was studied by varying the compositional parameters and the sintering temperature. The addition of 1% Bi2O3 to the stoichiometric precursor mixture prevented the formation of secondary phases observed when sintering stoichiometric precursors. The pure phase ceramic had a p-type conductivity and a three-decade lower electrical conductivity as measured by impedance spectroscopy. Annealing of optimally synthesized material at different partial pressures of oxygen in an oxygen–nitrogen gas atmosphere showed that the reason for this type of conductivity lies in the high concentration of defects associated with oxygen. By annealing in various mixtures of nitrogen and oxygen, it is possible to control the concentration of these defects and hence the conductivity, which can go down another two decades. At a pO2 ≤10%, the conductivity is determined by intrinsic charge carriers in the material itself.
Impact of the Elastane Percentage on the Elastic Properties of Knitted Fabrics under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Jovanović Tea , Penava Željko , Vrljičak Zlatko
Published: September 2022

Elastic knitted fabrics find numerous applications in the industry for compression stockings, sports and leisure wear, swimwear, ballet wear, etc. During its use, knitwear is subjected to dynamic loading due to body movements. The loading and unloading of the knitted fabric affect the size of the elastic region in which unrecovered deformation completely disappears. This paper deals with the influence of the elastane percentage in the knitted fabric on the elastic properties of the knitted fabric under dynamic loading. For this experiment, three types of yarn were used in different combinations: polyamide (PA), wrapped elastane yarn and bare elastane. The mentioned yarns were used to knit three different groups of plated weft-knitted fabrics (two yarns in a knitted fabric row): without elastane, knitted fabric with a percentage of wrapped elastane, and knitted fabric with a percentage of bare elastane. The percentage of elastane ranged between 0% and 43%. First, standard uniaxial tensile tests were performed on knitted fabric samples until breakage under static load. The force–elongation diagrams obtained are used to determine the elastic limit up to which Hook’s law applies. All knitted fabrics were cyclically tested to the elastic limit. From the obtained loading and unloading curves, unrecovered deformation (unrecovered elongation), elastic elongation and hysteresis index were determined and calculated. The results showed that the percentage of elastane significantly affects the size of the elastic region of the knitted fabric and has no effect on the hysteresis index. Therefore, it is necessary to optimize the elastane percentage for different knitted fabric designs to achieve the best dynamic recovery of the knitted fabric and to design a more stretchable knitted garment that fits the body as well as possible.
Concurrent Determination of Tigecycline, Tetracyclines and Their 4-Epimer Derivatives in Chicken Muscle Isolated from a Reversed-Phase Chromatography System Using Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Guo Yawen , He Zhaoyuan , Gao Pengfei , Liu Shuyu , Zhu Yali , Xie Kaizhou , Dong Yuhao
Published: September 2022

A quantitative and qualitative method using a high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS) detection approach was developed and validated for the analysis of tigecycline, four tetracyclines and their three 4-epimer derivatives in chicken muscle. Samples were extracted repeatedly with 0.1 mol/L Na2EDTA–McIlvaine buffer solution. After vortexing, centrifugation, solid-phase extraction, evaporation and reconstitution, the aliquots were separated using a C8 reversed-phase column (50 mm × 2.1 mm, 5 µm) with a binary solvent system consisting of methanol and 0.01 mol/L trichloroacetic acid aqueous solution. The typical validation parameters were evaluated in accordance with the acceptance criteria detailed in the guidelines of the EU Commission Decision 2002/657/EC and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bioanalytical Method Validation 05/24/18. The matrix-matched calibration curve was linear over the concentration range from the limit of quantitation (LOQ) to 400 μg/kg for doxycycline, and the calibration graphs for tetracycline, chlortetracycline, oxytetracycline, their 4-epimer derivatives and tigecycline showed a good linear relationship within the concentration range from the LOQ to 200 μg/kg. The limits of detection (LODs) for the eight targets were in the range of 0.06 to 0.09 μg/kg, and the recoveries from the fortified blank samples were in the range of 89% to 98%. The within-run precision and between-run precision, which were expressed as the relative standard deviations, were less than 5.0% and 6.9%, respectively. The applicability was successfully demonstrated through the determination of residues in 72 commercial chicken samples purchased from different sources. This approach provides a novel option for the detection of residues in animal-derived food safety monitoring.
Editorial for Special Issue “Sample Preparation-Quo Vadis: Current Status of Sample Preparation Approaches-2nd Edition”
Authors: Samanidou Victoria , Panderi Irene
Published: September 2022

Sample preparation is and will always be the most important step in chemical analysis [...]
Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Select Intermediates and Natural Products of the Desferrioxamine E Siderophore Pathway
Authors: Hoffmann Katherine M. , Kingsbury Jason S. , March Nathan L. , Jang Yoojin , Nguyen James H. , Hutt Miranda M.
Published: September 2022

The NIS synthetase family of enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of siderophores is increasingly associated with bacterial virulence. Proteins in this class represent outstanding potential drug targets, assuming that basic biochemical and structural characterizations can be completed. Towards this goal, we have mated an improved synthesis of the non-commercial amino acid N-hydroxy-N-succinylcadaverine (HSC, 6) with an isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) assay that profiles the iterative stages of HSC trimerization and macrocyclization by NIS synthetase DesD from Streptomyces coelicolor. HSC synthesis begins with multigram-scale Gabrielle and tert-butyl N-(benzyloxy)carbamate alkylations of 1-bromo-5-chloropentane following prior literature, but the end-game reported herein has two advantages for greater material throughput: (1) hydrogenolysis of benzyl ether and Cbz blocking groups is best accomplished with Pearlman’s catalyst at 40 psi of H2 and (2) purification of neutral (zwitterionic) HSC is effected by simple flash chromatography over silica gel in MeOH. HSC is subsequently shown to be a substrate for NIS synthetase DesD, which catalyzes three successive amide bond syntheses via adenyl monophosphate ester intermediates. We quantify and present the iterative and overall enzyme kinetic constants associated with formation of the cyclotrimeric siderophore desferrioxamine E (dfoE, 1).
A Comprehensive Literature Review on Cardioprotective Effects of Bioactive Compounds Present in Fruits of Aristotelia chilensis Stuntz (Maqui)
Authors: Rodríguez Lyanne , Trostchansky Andrés , Vogel Hermine , Wood Irene , Palomo Iván , Wehinger Sergio , Fuentes Eduardo
Published: September 2022

Some fruits and vegetables, rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, may inhibit platelet activation pathways and therefore reduce the risk of suffering from CVD when consumed regularly. Aristotelia chilensis Stuntz (Maqui) is a shrub or tree native to Chile with outstanding antioxidant activity, associated with its high content in anthocyanins, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Previous studies reveal different pharmacological properties for this berry, but its cardioprotective potential has been little studied. Despite having an abundant composition, and being rich in bioactive products with an antiplatelet role, there are few studies linking this berry with antiplatelet activity. This review summarizes and discusses relevant information on the cardioprotective potential of Maqui, based on its composition of bioactive compounds, mainly as a nutraceutical antiplatelet agent. Articles published between 2000 and 2022 in the following bibliographic databases were selected: PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Our search revealed that Maqui is a promising cardiovascular target since extracts from this berry have direct effects on the reduction in cardiovascular risk factors (glucose index, obesity, diabetes, among others). Although studies on antiplatelet activity in this fruit are recent, its rich chemical composition clearly shows that the presence of chemical compounds (anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, among others) with high antiplatelet potential can provide this berry with antiplatelet properties. These bioactive compounds have antiplatelet effects with multiple targets in the platelet, particularly, they have been related to the inhibition of thromboxane, thrombin, ADP, and GPVI receptors, or through the pathways by which these receptors stimulate platelet aggregation. Detailed studies are needed to clarify this gap in the literature, as well as to specifically evaluate the mechanism of action of Maqui extracts, due to the presence of phenolic compounds.
Chrysomycin A Inhibits the Proliferation, Migration and Invasion of U251 and U87-MG Glioblastoma Cells to Exert Its Anti-Cancer Effects
Authors: Liu Dong-Ni , Liu Man , Zhang Shan-Shan , Shang Yu-Fu , Song Fu-Hang , Zhang Hua-Wei , Du Guan-Hua , Wang Yue-Hua
Published: September 2022

Chrysomycin A (Chr-A), an antibiotic from Streptomyces, is reported to have anti-tumor and anti-tuberculous activities, but its anti-glioblastoma activity and possible mechanism are not clear. Therefore, the current study was to investigate the mechanism of Chr-A against glioblastoma using U251 and U87-MG human cells. CCK8 assays, EdU-DNA synthesis assays and LDH assays were carried out to detect cell viability, proliferation and cytotoxicity of U251 and U87-MG cells, respectively. Transwell assays were performed to detect the invasion and migration abilities of glioblastoma cells. Western blot was used to validate the potential proteins. Chr-A treatment significantly inhibited the growth of glioblastoma cells and weakened the ability of cell migration and invasion by down regulating the expression of slug, MMP2 and MMP9. Furthermore, Chr-A also down regulated Akt, p-Akt, GSK-3β, p-GSK-3β and their downstream proteins, such as β-catenin and c-Myc in human glioblastoma cells. In conclusion, Chr-A may inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion of glioblastoma cells through the Akt/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathway.
An Improved Isotope Labelling Method for Quantifying Deamidated Cobratide Using High-Resolution Quadrupole-Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Liu Bo , Huang Lu , Xu Rongrong , Fan Huihong , Wang Yue
Published: September 2022

Protein deamidation can severely alter the physicochemical characteristics and biological functions of protein therapeutics. Cobratide is a non-addictive analgesic with wide clinical acceptance. However, the Asn residue at position 48 from the N-terminus of the cobratide amino acid sequence (N48) tends to degrade during purification, storage, and transport. This characteristic could severely affect the drug safety and clinical efficacy of cobratide. Traditional methods for quantitating deamidation reported in previous research are characterised by low efficiency and accuracy; the quality control of cobratide via this method is limited. Herein, we developed an improved 18O-labelling method based on the detection of a unique peptide (i.e., the protein fragment of cobratide containing the N48 deamidation hotspot after enzymolysis) using an Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometer to quantify deamidated cobratide. The limits of detection and quantification of this method reached 0.02 and 0.025 μM, respectively, and inter- and intra-day precision values of the method were <3%. The accuracy of the 18O-labelling strategy was validated by using samples containing synthesised peptides with a known ratio of deamidation impurities and also by comparing the final total deamidation results with our previously developed capillary electrophoresis method. The recoveries for deamidation (Asp), deamidation isomerisation (iso-Asp), and total deamidation were 101.52 ± 1.17, 102.42 ± 1.82, and 103.55 ± 1.07, respectively. The robustness of the method was confirmed by verifying the chromatographic parameters. Our results demonstrate the applicability of the 18O-labelling strategy for detecting protein deamidation and lay a robust foundation for protein therapeutics studies and drug quality consistency evaluations.
Fluorine-Nitrogen-Codoped Carbon Dots as Fluorescent Switch Probes for Selective Fe(III) and Ascorbic Acid Sensing in Living Cells
Authors: Ye Shuai , Zhang Mingming , Guo Jiaqing , Yu Xiantong , Song Jun , Zeng Pengju , Qu Junle , Chen Yue , Li Hao
Published: September 2022

High-quality fluorescent probes based on carbon dots (CDs) have promising applications in many fields owing to their good stability, low toxicity, high quantum yield, and low raw material price. The fluorine- and nitrogen-doped fluorescent CDs (NFCDs) with blue fluorescence was successfully synthesized using 3-aminophenol and 2,4-difluorobenzoic acid as the raw material by the hydrothermal method. The NFCDs as probe can be used to directly and indirectly detect Fe3+ (detection range: 0.1–150 μM and detection limit: 0.14 μM) and ascorbic acid (AA) (detection range: 10–80 μM and detection limit: 0.11 μM). The NFCDs-based probe shows exceptional selectivity and strong anti-interference for Fe3+ and ascorbic acid (AA). In addition, we examined the response of NFCDs to Fe3+ and AA in living cells, which showed that the timely use of AA can reduce the effects of iron poisoning. This has important biological significance. This means that using NFCDs as fluorescent probes is beneficial for Fe3+ and AA detection and observing their dynamic changes in living cells. Thus, this work may contribute to the study of Fe3+- and AA-related diseases.
Analytical Approaches in Official Food Safety Control: An LC-Orbitrap-HRMS Screening Method for the Multiresidue Determination of Antibiotics in Cow, Sheep, and Goat Milk
Authors: Salis Severyn , Rubattu Nicola , Rubattu Federica , Cossu Maurizio , Sanna Andrea , Chessa Giannina
Published: September 2022

The presence of unauthorized substances, such as residues of veterinary medicines or chemical contaminants, in food can represent a possible health concern. For this reason, a complete legislative framework has been established in the European Union (EU), which defines the maximum limits allowed in food and carries out surveillance programs to control the presence of these substances. Official food control laboratories, in order to ensure a high level of consumer protection, must respond to the challenge of improving and harmonizing the performance of the analytical methods used for the analysis of residues of authorized, unauthorized, or prohibited pharmacologically active substances. Laboratories must also consider the state of the art of the analytical methodologies and the performance requirements of current legislation. The aim of this work was to develop a multiresidue method for the determination of antibiotics in milk, compliant with the criteria and procedures established by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/808. The method uses an LC-Orbitrap-HRMS for the determination of 57 molecules of antibiotic and active antibacterial substances belonging to different chemical classes (beta-lactams, tetracyclines, sulfonamides, quinolones, pleuromutilins, macrolides, and lincosamides) in bovine, ovine, and goat milk samples. It provides a simple and quick sample pretreatment and a subsequent identification phase of analytes, at concentrations equal to or lower than the maximum residual limit (MRL), in compliance with Commission Regulation (EU) 2010/37. The validation parameters: selectivity, stability, applicability, and detection capability (ccβ), are in agreement with the requirements of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/808 and demonstrated the effectiveness of the method in detecting veterinary drug residues at the target screening concentration (at the MRL level or below), with a false positive rate of less than 5%. This method represents an effective solution for detecting antibiotics in milk, which can be successfully applied in routine analyses for official food control plans.