bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncological Adequacy of Laparoscopic Surgery for Bulky Gastric Cancer: Results of a Western Single-Center Series
Authors: Muttillo Edoardo Maria , La Franca Alice , Stefanelli Silvia , Coppola Alessandro , Li Causi Francesco Saverio , Giannella Rachele Anna , Pino Elena , Castagnola Giorgio , Scarinci Andrea , Balducci Genoveffa , Mercantini Paolo
Published: November 2023

Background: Gastric cancer is increasing worldwide and one million new cases were estimated globally in 2020. Use of the laparoscopic approach is increasing especially for subtotal gastrectomy. However, to date, solid data on locally advanced bulky tumors are lacking. The aim of this study is to assess the role of laparoscopic surgery in bulky gastric tumors. Methods: We performed an observational retrospective single-center analysis. The following data were collected and analyzed for each patient: demographics, tumor-related data, intra-operative data, peri-operative data, and pathological data. Statistical analysis was conducted, including descriptive statistics and chi-squared test, to analyze the differences between categorical variables. Results: O the 116 patients who underwent gastric surgery, 49 patients were included in the study protocol. All patients had bulky gastric tumors. Eighteen patients underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy and 31 open gastrectomy. The median number of lymph nodes removed was 28.5 (15–46) in the laparoscopic group and 23.05 (6–62) in the open group (p = 0.04). In total, 5.6% of patients of the laparoscopic group had <16 lymph nodes harvested and 35.5% in the open group (p = 0.035). No statistical differences were found between the open and laparoscopic groups in terms of surgical margins (p = 0.69). Conclusions: Laparoscopic surgery is still a subject of debate in locally advanced bulky gastric cancer. Limited data are available concerning Western patients. This study showed superiority in terms of the quality of lymphadenectomy and non-inferiority in terms of radical resection margins.
Comparison between Micro-Powder Injection Molding and Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing of Metal Powders for the Fabrication of Sintered Components
Authors: Siedlecki Krzysztof , Słoma Marcin , Skalski Andrzej
Published: November 2023

Original compositions based on iron micro-powders and an organic binder mixture were developed for the fabrication of sintered metallic elements with micro-powder injection molding (µPIM) and material extrusion additive manufacturing of metal powders (MEX). The binder formulation was thoroughly adjusted to exhibit rheological and thermal properties suitable for µPIM and MEX. The focus was set on adapting the proper binder composition to meet the requirements for injection/extrusion and, at the same time, to have comparable thermogravimetric characteristics for the thermal debinding and sintering process. A basic analysis of the forming process indicates that the pressure has a low influence on clogging, while the temperature of the material and mold/nozzle impacts the viscosity of the composition significantly. The influence of the Fe micro-powder content in the range of 45–60 vol.% was evaluated against the injection/extrusion process parameters and properties of sintered elements. Different debinding and sintering processes (chemical and thermal) were evaluated for the optimal properties of the final samples. The obtained sintered elements were of high quality and showed minor signs of binder-related flaws, with shrinkage in the range of 10–15% for both the injection-molded and 3D printed parts. These results suggest that, with minor modifications, compositions tailored for the PIM technique can be adapted for the additive manufacturing of metal parts, achieving comparable characteristics of the parts obtained for both forming methods.
Dimensional Deviations of Horizontal Thin Wall of Titanium Alloy Ti6Al4V Determined by Optical and Contact Methods
Authors: Kurpiel Szymon , Zagórski Krzysztof , Cieślik Jacek , Skrzypkowski Krzysztof , Kapayeva Sarken , Torekhanova Maral
Published: November 2023

Thin-walled structures are used in many industries. The need to use such elements is dictated by the desire to reduce the weight of the finished product, as well as to reduce its cost. The most common method of machining such elements is the use of milling, which makes it possible to make a product of almost any shape. However, several undesirable phenomena occur during the milling of thin-walled structures. The main phenomenon is a deformation of the thin wall resulting from its reduced stiffness. Therefore, it is necessary to control the dimensional and shape accuracy of finished products, which is carried out using various measuring instruments. The development of newer measuring methods such as optical methods is being observed. One of the newer measuring machines is the 3D optical scanner. In the present experiment, thin-walled samples in horizontal orientation of Ti6Al4V titanium alloy were machined under controlled cutting conditions. During machining, the cutting speed and feed rate were assumed constant, while the input factors were the tool and cutting strategy. This paper presents graphs of deviations in the determined cross-section planes of thin-walled structures using a 3D optical scanner and a coordinate measuring machine. A correlation was made between the results obtained from the measurement by the optical method and those determined by the contact method. A maximum discrepancy of about 8% was observed between the methods used.
Analysis and Optimal Control Measures of a Typhoid Fever Mathematical Model for Two Socio-Economic Populations
Authors: Aniaku Stephen Ekwueme , Collins Obiora Cornelius , Onah Ifeanyi Sunday
Published: November 2023

Typhoid fever is an infectious disease that affects humanity worldwide; it is particularly dangerous in areas with communities of a lower socio-economic status, where many individuals are exposed to a dirty environment and unclean food. A mathematical model is formulated to analyze the impact of control measures such as vaccination of susceptible humans, treatment of infected humans and sanitation in different socio-economic communities. The model assumed that the population comprises of two socio-economic classes. The essential dynamical system analysis of our model was appropriately carried out. The impact of the control measures was analyzed, and the optimal control theory was applied on the control model to explore the impact of the different control measures. Numerical simulation of the models and the optimal controls were carried out and the obtained results indicate that the overall combination of the control measures eradicates typhoid fever in the population, but the controls are more optimal in higher socio-economic status communities.
Research on the Attack Strategy of Multifunctional Market Trading Oriented to Price
Authors: Tian Jiaqi , Huang Bonan , Shi Zewen , Liu Lu , Feng Lihong , Jing Guoxiu
Published: November 2023

In the context of energy transformation and power market system reform, it is crucial to address the network risks associated with enhancing the integration of the “Energy–Information–Market” paradigm. This necessitates research on multi-energy market trading modes and the corresponding offensive and defensive technologies. This paper proposes a novel approach centered around a node-local Energy Hub (EH) that represents large industrial users with diverse energy demands. To facilitate multi-energy two-way trading, a price-oriented Transactive Energy (TE) market clearing strategy is developed. Building upon this transaction network framework, a data-driven attack strategy targeting the state estimator of the Transmission System Operator (TSO) is introduced and implemented in two stages, encompassing real-time topology estimation and False Data Injection attacks. By leveraging Matrix Transfer Entropy (MTE), the optimal attack target is identified to disrupt the economic stability of the system and the profit of the attacker increases significantly. The proposed attack strategy is validated through simulations conducted on a 30-node system, yielding conclusive evidence of its effectiveness while offering vital insights for system defense.
Chitosan from Marine Amphipods Inhibits the Wilt Banana Pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Cubense Tropical Race 4
Authors: Roig-Puche Marc , Lopez-Moya Federico , Valverde-Urrea Miguel , Sanchez-Jerez Pablo , Lopez-Llorca Luis Vicente , Fernandez-Gonzalez Victoria
Published: November 2023

In this work, we extracted chitosan from marine amphipods associated with aquaculture facilities and tested its use in crop protection. The obtained chitosan was 2.5 ± 0.3% of initial ground amphipod dry weight. The chemical nature of chitosan from amphipod extracts was confirmed via Raman scattering spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). This chitosan showed an 85.7–84.3% deacetylation degree. Chitosan from biofouling amphipods at 1 mg·mL−1 virtually arrested conidia germination (ca. sixfold reduction from controls) of the banana wilt pathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp cubense Tropical Race 4 (FocTR4). This concentration reduced (ca. twofold) the conidia germination of the biocontrol fungus Pochonia chlamydosporia (Pc123). Chitosan from amphipods at low concentrations (0.01 mg·mL−1) still reduced FocTR4 germination but did not affect Pc123. This is the first time that chitosan is obtained from biofouling amphipods. This new chitosan valorizes aquaculture residues and has potential for biomanaging the diseases of food security crops such as bananas.
Gramicidin, a Bactericidal Antibiotic, Is an Antiproliferative Agent for Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Choi Min Sung , Lee Chae Yeon , Kim Ji Hyeon , Lee Yul Min , Lee Sukmook , Kim Hyun Jung , Heo Kyun
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Gramicidin, a bactericidal antibiotic used in dermatology and ophthalmology, has recently garnered attention for its inhibitory actions against cancer cell growth. However, the effects of gramicidin on ovarian cancer cells and the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. We aimed to elucidate the anticancer efficacy of gramicidin against ovarian cancer cells. Materials and Methods: The anticancer effect of gramicidin was investigated through an in vitro experiment. We analyzed cell proliferation, DNA fragmentation, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells using WST-1 assay, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick and labeling (TUNEL), DNA agarose gel electrophoresis, flow cytometry and western blot. Results: Gramicidin treatment induces dose- and time-dependent decreases in OVCAR8, SKOV3, and A2780 ovarian cancer cell proliferation. TUNEL assay and DNA agarose gel electrophoresis showed that gramicidin caused DNA fragmentation in ovarian cancer cells. Flow cytometry demonstrated that gramicidin induced cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, we confirmed via Western blot that gramicidin triggered apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. Conclusions: Our results strongly suggest that gramicidin exerts its inhibitory effect on cancer cell growth by triggering apoptosis. Conclusively, this study provides new insights into the previously unexplored anticancer properties of gramicidin against ovarian cancer cells.
Is Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index a Real Non-Invasive Biomarker to Predict Oncological Outcomes in Patients Eligible for Radical Cystectomy?
Authors: Russo Pierluigi , Marino Filippo , Rossi Francesco , Bizzarri Francesco Pio , Ragonese Mauro , Dibitetto Francesco , Filomena Giovanni Battista , Marafon Denise Pires , Ciccarese Chiara , Iacovelli Roberto , Pandolfo Savio Domenico , Aveta Achille , Cilio Simone , Napolitano Luigi , Foschi Nazario
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: To assess the potential prognostic role of the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) in predicting oncological outcomes in a cohort of patients treated with radical cystectomy (RC). Materials and Methods: From 2016 to 2022, a retrospective monocentric study enrolled 193 patients who were divided into two groups based on their SII levels using the optimal cutoff determined by the Youden index. The SII was obtained from a preoperative blood test approximately one month before RC. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate the capacity of SII to predict lymph node invasion (N), advanced pT stage (pT3/pT4), and locally advanced condition at the time of RC. Multivariable Cox regression models adjusted for preoperative and postoperative features were used to analyze the prognostic effect of SII on recurrence-free survival (RFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS). Results: The optimal cutoff value of the SII was 640.27. An elevated SII was seen in 113 (58.5%) patients. Using the multivariable preoperative logistic regression models, an elevated SII was correlated with nodal invasion (N; p = 0.03), advanced pT stage (p = 0.04), and locally advanced disease (p = 0.005), with enhancement of AUCs for predicting locally advanced disease (p = 0.04). In multivariable Cox regression models that considered preoperative clinicopathologic factors, an elevated SII was linked to poorer RFS (p = 0.005) and OS (p = 0.01). Moreover, on multivariable Cox regression postoperative models, a high SII was linked to RFS (p = 0.004) and to OS (p = 0.01). Conclusions: In this monocentric retrospective study, higher preoperative SII values predicted worse oncological outcomes in patients with bladder cancer (BCa) who underwent RC.
The Effect of Powder Temperature on Semi-Solid Powder Rolling AA2024 Based on Experiments and Numerical Simulation
Authors: Wu Min , Cai Renye , Wang Yankun , Luo Xia , Yu Junjie , Zeng Xiangkun
Published: November 2023

Semi-solid powder rolling (SSPR) is widely used to produce alloy strips with fine grains and excellent performances in the automotive, aerospace and shipbuilding industries. During SSPR, powder temperature, as a very important parameter, greatly affects strips’ microstructures and mechanical properties, which have been investigated by many researchers, but its effect on the forming process and mechanism has rarely been studied. Therefore, based on online experimental detection and transient simulation, the microstructures, strip temperatures, relative densities and rolling forces at different conditions were, respectively, measured, calculated, compared and analyzed in order to study the deformation process and mechanism during SSPR. The result shows that with the increase in powder temperature, the strip temperature and relative density increase, while the rolling force decreases. The grains of the strips are refined after SSPR, and fine and dense microstructures are obtained at 600 °C, which is the optimum powder temperature. In the main deformation sections (II and III), when the contact normal force exists and reaches a maximum, the relative density and rolling force increase rapidly. At these sections, the strips rolled at 600 °C are mainly in a porous solid state, and powder crushing dominates the strip deformation. Therefore, SSPR at 600 °C and below can be considered porous or powder hot rolling, integrating powder crushing, solidification, deformation, densification and grain coarsening. Moreover, as the simulated values are basically consistent with experimental values, the thermomechanical coupling model based on the Fourier equation and its parameters are confirmed to be reasonable.
The Potential Role of Fecal Microbiota Transplant in the Reversal or Stabilization of Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms: A Literature Review on Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Laeeq Tooba , Vongsavath Tahne , Tun Kyaw Min , Hong Annie S.
Published: November 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects millions of people worldwide, and recent data have identified the potential role of the gut microbiome in inducing autoimmunity in MS patients. To investigate the potential of fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) as a treatment option for MS, we conducted a comprehensive literature search (PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane) and identified five studies that involved 15 adult MS patients who received FMT for gastrointestinal symptoms. The primary outcome of this review was to assess the effect of FMT in reversing and improving motor symptoms in MS patients, while the secondary outcome was to evaluate the safety of FMT in this patient population. Our findings suggest that all 15 patients who received FMT experienced improved and reversed neurological symptoms secondary to MS. This improvement was sustained even in follow-up years, with no adverse effects observed. These results indicate that FMT may hold promise as a treatment option for MS, although further research is necessary to confirm these findings.
Transient Conformations Leading to Peptide Fragment Ion [c + 2H]+ via Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonding Using MALDI In-source Decay Mass Spectrometry of Serine-, Threonine-, and/or Cysteine-Containing Peptides
Authors: Takayama Mitsuo
Published: November 2023

The formation of a peptide fragment ion [c + 2H]+ was examined using ultraviolet matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization in-source decay mass spectrometry (UV/MALDI-ISD MS). Unusually, an ISD experiment with a hydrogen-abstracting oxidative matrix 4-nitro-1-naphthol (4,1-NNL) resulted in a [c + 2H]+ ion when the analyte peptides contained serine (Ser), threonine (Thr), and/or cysteine (Cys) residues, although the ISD with 4,1-NNL merely resulted in [a]+ and [d]+ ions. The [c + 2H]+ ion observed could be rationalized through intramolecular hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), like a Type-II reaction via a seven-membered conformation involving intramolecular hydrogen bonding (HB) between the active hydrogens (–OH and –SH) of the Ser/Thr/Cys residues and the backbone carbonyl oxygen at the adjacent amino (N)-terminal side residue. The ISD of the Cys-containing peptide resulted in the [c + 2H]+ ions, which originated from cleavage at the backbone N-Cα bonds far from the Cys residue, suggesting that the peptide molecule formed 16- and 22-membered transient conformations in the gas phase. The time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) calculations of the model structures of the Ser and Cys residues indicated that the Cys residue did not show a constructive bond interaction between the donor thiol (-SH) and carbonyl oxygen (=CO), while the Ser residue formed a distinct intramolecular HB.
In Vitro and In Vivo Anti-Cancer Activity of Lasiokaurin in a Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Model
Authors: Lin Jinrong , Qu Zhao , Pu Huanhuan , Shen Li-Sha , Yi Xianguo , Lin Yu-Shan , Gong Rui-Hong , Chen Guo-Qing , Chen Sibao
Published: November 2023

Due to its intricate heterogeneity, high invasiveness, and poor prognosis, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) stands out as the most formidable subtype of breast cancer. At present, chemotherapy remains the prevailing treatment modality for TNBC, primarily due to its lack of estrogen receptors (ERs), progesterone receptors (PRs), and human epidermal growth receptor 2 (HER2). However, clinical chemotherapy for TNBC is marked by its limited efficacy and a pronounced incidence of adverse effects. Consequently, there is a pressing need for novel drugs to treat TNBC. Given the rich repository of diverse natural compounds in traditional Chinese medicine, identifying potential anti-TNBC agents is a viable strategy. This study investigated lasiokaurin (LAS), a natural diterpenoid abundantly present in Isodon plants, revealing its significant anti-TNBC activity both in vitro and in vivo. Notably, LAS treatment induced cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and DNA damage in TNBC cells, while concurrently inhibiting cell metastasis. In addition, LAS effectively inhibited the activation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) pathway and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), thus establishing its potential for multitarget therapy against TNBC. Furthermore, LAS demonstrated its ability to reduce tumor growth in a xenograft mouse model without exerting detrimental effects on the body weight or vital organs, confirming its safe applicability for TNBC treatment. Overall, this study shows that LAS is a potent candidate for treating TNBC.
One-Pot Synthesis of Semiconducting Quantum Dots–Organic Linker–Carbon Nanotubes for Potential Applications in Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Dasari Mallika , Muchharla Baleeswaraiah , Talapatra Saikat , Kohli Punit
Published: November 2023

Materials and composites with the ability to convert light into electricity are essential for a variety of applications, including solar cells. The development of materials and processes needed to boost the conversion efficiency of solar cell materials will play a key role in providing pathways for dependable light to electric energy conversion. Here, we show a simple, single-step technique to synthesize photoactive nanocomposites by coupling carbon nanotubes with semiconducting quantum dots using a molecular linker. We also discuss and demonstrate the potential application of nanocomposite for the fabrication of bulk heterojunction solar cells. Cadmium selenide (CdSe) quantum dots (QDs) were attached to multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) using perylene-3, 4, 9, 10-tetracarboxylic-3, 4, 9, 10-dianhydride (PTCDA) as a molecular linker through a one-step synthetic route. Our investigations revealed that PTCDA tremendously boosts the density of QDs on MWCNT surfaces and leads to several interesting optical and electrical properties. Furthermore, the QD–PTCDA–MWCNTs nanocomposites displayed a semiconducting behavior, in sharp contrast to the metallic behavior of the MWCNTs. These studies indicate that, PTCDA interfaced between QDs and MWCNTs, acted as a molecular bridge which may facilitate the charge transfer between QDs and MWCNTs. We believe that the investigations presented here are important to discover simple synthetic routes for obtaining photoactive nanocomposites with several potential applications in the field of opto-electronics as well as energy conversion devices.
Integrative Analysis of Machine Learning and Molecule Docking Simulations for Ischemic Stroke Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Song Jingwei , Zaidi Syed Aqib Ali , He Liangge , Zhang Shuai , Zhou Guangqian
Published: November 2023

Due to the narrow therapeutic window and high mortality of ischemic stroke, it is of great significance to investigate its diagnosis and therapy. We employed weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) to ascertain gene modules related to stroke and used the maSigPro R package to seek the time-dependent genes in the progression of stroke. Three machine learning algorithms were further employed to identify the feature genes of stroke. A nomogram model was built and applied to evaluate the stroke patients. We analyzed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data to discern microglia subclusters in ischemic stroke. The RNA velocity, pseudo time, and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed to investigate the relationship of microglia subclusters. Connectivity map (CMap) analysis and molecule docking were used to screen a therapeutic agent for stroke. A nomogram model based on the feature genes showed a clinical net benefit and enabled an accurate evaluation of stroke patients. The RNA velocity and pseudo time analysis showed that microglia subcluster 0 would develop toward subcluster 2 within 24 h from stroke onset. The GSEA showed that the function of microglia subcluster 0 was opposite to that of subcluster 2. AZ_628, which screened from CMap analysis, was found to have lower binding energy with Mmp12, Lgals3, Fam20c, Capg, Pkm2, Sdc4, and Itga5 in microglia subcluster 2 and maybe a therapeutic agent for the poor development of microglia subcluster 2 after stroke. Our study presents a nomogram model for stroke diagnosis and provides a potential molecule agent for stroke therapy.
Separation of Boron and Arsenic from Geothermal Water with Novel Gel-Type Chelating Ion Exchange Resins: Batch and Column Sorption-Elution Studies
Authors: Altıok Esra , Şen Fatma , Wolska Joanna , Cyganowski Piotr , Bryjak Marek , Kabay Nalan , Arda Müşerref , Yüksel Mithat
Published: November 2023

In this research, the removal of boron and arsenic from geothermal water was examined by using novel N-methyl-d-glucamine functionalized gel-like resins (abbreviated as 1JW and 2JW) synthesized by the membrane emulsification method. The outcomes were compared with those of commercially available boron selective chelating ion exchange resin (Diaion CRB 05). According to the results obtained with the novel resins, it was possible to reduce both boron and arsenic concentrations in geothermal water by using these novel gel-like chelating resins below their permissible levels for agricultural irrigation (<1 mg B/L) and drinking water (<0.01 mg As/L) by using the batch method. The optimum resin concentration required for almost complete boron removal (more than 95%) with the two chelating resins was determined to be 2 g/L. The novel gel-like chelating resins 1JW and 2JW achieved 94% of arsenic removal by using the resin concentration of 8 g/L, while the required resin concentration was 32 g/L for 94% of arsenic removal using commercially available Diaion CRB05 resin. In addition, the column performance characteristics of the novel chelating resins for the separation of boron were studied, and the results were compared to those obtained with Diaion CRB05. According to the column data obtained, the total resin capacities of the Diaion CRB05, 1JW, and 2JW resins were calculated as 6.29, 5.08, and 4.64 mg B/mL-resin, respectively.
Interaction of Thiol Antioxidants with α,β-Unsaturated Ketone Moiety: Its Implication for Stability and Bioactivity of Curcuminoids
Authors: Lee Bo Hyun , Song Eiseul , Hong Jungil
Published: November 2023

Many biological functions of curcumin have been reported. As certain bioactivities of curcumin are eliminated by antioxidants, reactive oxygen species generated by curcumin have been suggested as a relevant mechanism. In the present study, the effects of different types of antioxidants on the stability and bioactivities of curcumin were analyzed. High concentrations (>4 mM) of thiol antioxidants, including N-acetylcysteine (NAC), glutathione (GSH), and β-mercaptoethanol, accelerated the decomposition of curcumin and other curcuminoids; the submillimolar levels (<0.5 mM) of GSH and NAC rather improved their stability. Ascorbic acid or superoxide dismutase also stabilized curcumin, regardless of their concentration. The cellular levels and bioactivities of curcumin, including its cytotoxicity and the induction of heme oxygenase-1, were significantly reduced in the presence of 8 mM of GSH and NAC. The effects were enhanced in the presence of submillilmolar GSH and NAC, or non-thiol antioxidants. The present results indicate that antioxidants with a reduced thiol group could directly interact with the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl moiety of curcuminoids and modulate their stability and bioactivity.
New Application of cycloSaligenyl Prodrugs Approach for the Delivery of Fosfoxacin Derivatives in Mycobacteria
Authors: Munier Mathilde , Tritsch Denis , Lièvremont Didier , Rohmer Michel , Grosdemange-Billiard Catherine
Published: November 2023

In this work, we implemented for the first time the cycloSaligenyl prodrug strategy to increase the bioavailability of fosmidomycin phosphate analogs in bacteria. Here, we report the synthesis of 34 cycloSaligenyl prodrugs of fosfoxacin and its derivatives. Among them, fifteen double prodrugs efficiently prevented the growth of the non-pathogenic, fast-growing Mycobacterium smegmatis.
Selected Plant Triterpenoids and Their Derivatives as Antiviral Agents
Authors: Wimmerová Martina , Bildziukevich Uladzimir , Wimmer Zdeněk
Published: November 2023

The results of the most recent investigation of triterpenoid-based antiviral agents namely in the HIV-1 and HSV-1 treatment were reviewed and summarized. Several key historical achievements are included to stress consequences and continuity in this research. Most of the agents studied belong to a series of compounds derived from betulin or betulinic acid, and their synthetic derivative is called bevirimat. A termination of clinical trials of bevirimat in Phase IIb initiated a search for more successful compounds partly derived from bevirimat or designed independently of bevirimat structure. Surprisingly, a majority of bevirimat mimics are derivatives of betulinic acid, while other plant triterpenoids, such as ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, glycyrrhetinic acid, or other miscellaneous triterpenoids, are relatively rarely involved in a search for a novel antiviral agent. Therefore, this review article is divided into three parts based on the leading triterpenoid core structure.
Antifungal Activity and Molecular Mechanisms of Copper Nanoforms against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
Authors: Vestergaard Mun’delanji C. , Nishida Yuki , Tran Lihn T. T. , Sharma Neha , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Nakamura Masayuki , Oussou-Azo Auriane F. , Nakama Tomoki
Published: November 2023

In this work, we have synthesized copper nanoforms (Cu NFs) using ascorbic acid as a reducing agent and polyvinylpyrrolidone as a stabilizer. Elemental characterization using EDS has shown the nanostructure to be of high purity and compare well with commercially sourced nanoforms. SEM images of both Cu NFs show some agglomeration. The in-house NFs had a better even distribution and size of the nanostructures. The XRD peaks represented a face-centered cubic structure of Cu2O. The commercially sourced Cu NFs were found to be a mixture of Cu and Cu2O. Both forms had a crystalline structure. Using these two types of Cu NFs, an antimicrobial study against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, a devastating plant pathogen, showed the in-house Cu NFs to be most effective at inhibiting growth of the pathogen. Interestingly, at low concentrations, both Cu NFs increased fungal growth, although the mycelia appeared thin and less dense than in the control. SEM macrographs showed that the in-house Cu NFs inhibited the fungus by flattening the mycelia and busting some of them. In contrast, the mycelia were short and appeared clustered when exposed to commercial Cu NFs. The difference in effect was related to the size and/or oxidation state of the Cu NFs. Furthermore, the fungus produced a defense mechanism in response to the NFs. The fungus produced melanin, with the degree of melanization directly corresponding to the concentration of the Cu NFs. Localization of aggregated Cu NFs could be clearly observed outside of the model membranes. The large agglomerates may only contribute indirectly by a hit-and-bounce-off effect, while small structures may adhere to the membrane surface and/or internalize. Spatio-temporal membrane dynamics were captured in real time. The dominant dynamics culminated into large fluctuations. Some of the large fluctuations resulted in vesicular transformation. The major transformation was exo-bud/exo-cytosis, which may be a way to excrete the foreign object (Cu NFs).
Formic Acid Decomposition Using Palladium-Zinc Preformed Colloidal Nanoparticles Supported on Carbon Nanofibre in Batch and Continuous Flow Reactors: Experimental and Computational Fluid Dynamics Modelling Studies
Authors: Hafeez Sanaa , Harkou Eleana , Adamou Panayiota , Barlocco Ilaria , Zanella Elisa , Manos George , Al-Salem Sultan M. , Chen Xiaowei , Delgado Juan Josè , Dimitratos Nikolaos , Villa Alberto , Constantinou Achilleas
Published: November 2023

The need to replace conventional fuels with renewable sources is a great challenge for the science community. H2 is a promising alternative due to its high energy density and availability. H2 generation from formic acid (FA) decomposition occurred in a batch and a packed-bed flow reactor, in mild conditions, using a 2% Pd6Zn4/HHT (high heated treated) catalyst synthesised via the sol-immobilisation method. Experimental and theoretical studies took place, and the results showed that in the batch system, the conversion was enhanced with increasing reaction temperature, while in the continuous flow system, the conversion was found to decrease due to the deactivation of the catalyst resulting from the generation of the poisoning CO. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies were developed to predict the conversion profiles, which demonstrated great validation with the experimental results. The model can accurately predict the decomposition of FA as well as the deactivation that occurs in the continuous flow system. Of significance was the performance of the packed-bed flow reactor, which showed improved FA conversion in comparison to the batch reactor, potentially leading to the utilisation of continuous flow systems for future fuel cell applications for on-site H2 production.
Antibiotic-Powered Energy Harvesting: Introducing Benzylpenicillin as an Efficient Tribopositive Material for Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Nauman Asad , Ameen Shahid , Kim Hak-Rin
Published: November 2023

The pursuit of enhancing the performance of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) has led to the exploration of new materials with efficient charge-generating capabilities. Herein, we propose benzylpenicillin sodium salt (b-PEN) as a candidate biomaterial for the tribopositive layer owing to its superior electron-donating capability via the lone pairs of electrons on its sulfur atom, carbonyl, and amino functional groups. The proposed b-PEN TENG device exhibits promising electrical performance with an open-circuit voltage of 185 V, a short-circuit current of 4.52 µA, and a maximum power density of 72 µW/cm2 under force applied by a pneumatic air cylinder at 5 Hz. The biomechanical energy-harvesting capabilities of the b-PEN TENG device are demonstrated by actuating it with finger, hand, and foot movements. Moreover, the proposed TENG device is utilized to charge capacitors and power light-emitting diodes by scavenging the externally applied mechanical energy. This outstanding electrical performance makes b-PEN a promising tribopositive material.
Intracellular Fate of Sub-Toxic Concentration of Functionalized Selenium Nanoparticles in Aggressive Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Bissardon Caroline , Proux Olivier , Gazze Salvatore Andrea , Filhol Odile , Toubhans Benoît , Sauzéat Lucie , Bouchet Sylvain , Lewis Aled R. , Maffeis Thierry , Hazemann Jean-Louis , Bayat Sam , Cloetens Peter , Conlan R. Steven , Charlet Laurent , Bohic Sylvain
Published: November 2023

Selenium 0 (Se0) is a powerful anti-proliferative agent in cancer research. We investigated the impact of sub-toxic concentrations of Se0 functionalized nanoparticles (SeNPs) on prostate cancer PC-3 cells and determined their intracellular localization and fate. An in-depth characterization of functionalized selenium nanoparticles composition is proposed to certify that no chemical bias relative to synthesis issues might have impacted the study. Selenium is an extremely diluted element in the biological environment and therefore requires high-performance techniques with a very low detection limit and high spatial resolution for intracellular imaging. This was explored with state-of-the-art techniques, but also with cryopreparation to preserve the chemical and structural integrity of the cells for spatially resolved and speciation techniques. Monodisperse solutions of SeNPs capped with bovine serum albumin (BSA) were shown to slow down the migration capacity of aggressive prostate cancer cells compared to polydisperse solutions of SeNPs capped with chitosan. BSA coating could prevent interactions between the reactive surface of the nanoparticles and the plasma membrane, mitigating the generation of reactive oxygen species. The intracellular localization showed interaction with mitochondria and also a localization in the lysosome-related organelle. The SeNPs-BSA localization in mitochondria constitute a possible explanation for our result showing a very significant dampening of the PC-3 cell proliferation capabilities. The purpose of the use of sublethal compound concentrations was to limit adverse effects resulting from high cell death to best evaluate some cellular changes and the fate of these SeNPs on PC-3. Our findings provide new insight to further study the various mechanisms of cytotoxicity of SeNPs.
Porous-Wall Titania Nanotube Array Layers: Preparation and Photocatalytic Response
Authors: Luca Dumitru , Dobromir Marius , Stoian George , Ciobanu Adrian , Luca Mihaela
Published: November 2023

Electrochemical anodization is already a well-established process, owing to its multiple benefits for creating high-grade titanium dioxide nanotubes with suitable characteristics and tunable shapes. Nevertheless, more research is necessary to fully comprehend the basic phenomena at the anode-electrolyte interface during anodization. In a recent paper, we proposed the use of sawtooth-shaped voltage pulses for Ti anodization, which controls the pivoting point of the balance between the two processes that compete to create nanotubes during a self-organization process: oxide etching and oxidation. Under these conditions, pulsed anodization clearly reveals the history of nanotube growth as recorded in the nanotube morphology. We show that by selecting the suitable electrolyte and electrical discharge settings, a nanoporous structure may be generated as a repeating pattern along the nanotube wall axis. We report the findings in terms of nanotube morphology, crystallinity, surface chemistry, photocatalytic activity, and surface hydrophilicity as they relate to the electrical parameters of electrochemical anodization. Aside from their fundamental relevance, our findings could lead to the development of a novel form of TiO2 nanotube array layer.
Survey of Genotype Diversity, Virulence, and Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Mastitis-Causing Streptococcus uberis in Dairy Herds Using Whole-Genome Sequencing
Authors: Zouharová Monika , Matiašovic Ján , Gebauer Jan , Matiašková Katarína , Nedbalcová Kateřina
Published: November 2023

Streptococcus uberis is one of the primary causative agents of mastitis, a clinically and economically significant disease that affects dairy cattle worldwide. In this study, we analyzed 140 S. uberis strains isolated from mastitis milk samples collected from 74 cow herds in the Czech Republic. We employed whole-genome sequencing to screen for the presence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes and genes encoding virulence factors, and to assess their genetic relationships. Our analysis revealed the presence of 88 different sequence types (STs), with 41% of the isolates assigned to global clonal complexes (GCCs), the majority of which were affiliated with GCC5. The STs identified were distributed across the major phylogenetic branches of all currently known STs. We identified fifty-one putative virulence factor genes, and the majority of isolates carried between 27 and 29 of these genes. A tendency of virulence factors and AMR genes to cluster with specific STs was observed, although such clustering was not evident within GCCs. Principal component analysis did not reveal significant diversity among isolates when grouped by GCC or ST prevalence. The substantial genomic diversity and the wide array of virulence factors found in S. uberis strains present a challenge for the implementation of effective anti-mastitis measures.
Theoretical Substantiation of the Possibility of Performing Non-Damaging UV Diagnostics of Biological Tissues In Vivo
Authors: Tarasov Andrey P. , Shtyflyuk Maria E. , Rogatkin Dmitry A.
Published: November 2023

Since UV radiation is capable of causing skin erythema, there is a risk of damage during in vivo UV spectroscopy of skin. In particular, the conventional estimation of radiation dose indicates the impossibility of conducting such studies when using fiber sources to deliver UVA and UVB radiation to the skin due to the rapid accumulation of the minimal erythema dose (MED). Using numerical simulations, we investigated the possibility of achieving MED when exposing the skin to UV light of diagnostic power and forming irradiation spots of different sizes. It has been shown that the conventional approach to calculating the dose as radiant exposure (J/cm2) turns out to be unsuitable in the case of irradiation spots of small area (which is the case when fiber sources are used) since it greatly overestimates the dose. This, in turn, results in a significant underestimation of the permissible duration of the diagnostic procedure. The reason for this is the failure to take into account the diffusion of radiation in biological tissue. We substantiated that for a more correct calculation of the dose taking into account diffusion, it is necessary to estimate the volumetric energy density (J/cm3) in biological tissue. In vivo experiments confirmed that this approach is more correct in determining the time to reach erythema compared to the conventional approach. The calculations showed that the minimum spot area of UVA/UVB irradiation on the skin surface, beyond which the calculation of the dose as radiant exposure does not introduce a significant error, is 1.5–3 mm2, which corresponds to diameters of 1.4–2 mm in the case of a round irradiation spot.
Naturally Occurring Triploidy in Cannabis
Authors: Philbrook Richard , Jafari Marzieh , Gerstenberg Sydney , Say Krista L. , Warren Jeremy , Jones Andrew Maxwell Phineas
Published: November 2023

Polyploidy is a significant evolutionary process in plants that involves the duplication of genomic content and has been recognized as a key mechanism driving plant diversification and adaptation. In natural populations, polyploids frequently arise from unreduced gametes, which subsequently fuse with reduced or unreduced gametes, resulting in triploid or tetraploid offspring, respectively. Cannabis sativa L. is a diploid species, but recent work using artificially induced polyploidy has demonstrated its potential advantages in an agricultural setting. Further, recent work has identified that some elite clonal cultivars, vis. Mac1, are triploid, with no indication that they were artificially produced. The current study was conducted to determine if polyploidy is a naturally occurring phenomenon in cannabis and to estimate the frequency of this phenomenon across populations. To do this, the presence of natural triploid individuals was evaluated in 13 seedling populations of cannabis using a flow cytometry analysis. Among the examined populations, natural triploids were identified in 10 groups with an average frequency of approximately 0.5%. The highest frequency of natural triploids was observed in a self-pollinated population at 2.3%. This research demonstrates that polyploidy is a naturally occurring event in cannabis and triploids are present at an average of approximately 0.5%, or 1 in 200 plants. These data shed light on the natural variation in ploidy within cannabis populations and contribute valuable insights to the understanding of cannabis genetics and breeding practices.
Chemical Composition and Skin-Whitening Activities of Siegesbeckia glabrescens Makino Flower Absolute in Melanocytes
Authors: Lee Da Kyoung , Won Kyung Jong , Kim Do Yoon , Kim Yoon Yi , Lee Hwan Myung
Published: November 2023

Siegesbeckia glabrescens Makino (SGM) has been traditionally used to treat many disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, and acute hepatitis. However, the biological activities of SGM in skin remain unclear. The present study explored the effects of SGM flower absolute (SGMFAb) on skin-whitening-linked biological activities in B16BL6 cells. SGMFAb was extracted using hexane, and its composition was analyzed through gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis. The biological effects of SGMFAb on B16BL6 melanoma cells were detected via WST and BrdU incorporation assays, ELISA, and immunoblotting. SGMFAb contained 14 compounds. In addition, SGMFAb was noncytotoxic, attenuated the serum-induced proliferation of, and inhibited melanin synthesis and tyrosinase activity in α-MSH-exposed B16BL6 cells. SGMFAb also reduced the expressions of MITF (microphthalmia-associated transcription factor), tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein (TRP)-1, and TRP-2 in α-MSH-exposed B16BL6 cells. Moreover, SGMFAb downregulated the activation of p38 MAPK, ERK1/2, and JNK in α-MSH-stimulated B16BL6 cells. In addition, SGMFAb reduced the expressions of three melanosome-transport-participating proteins (myosin Va, melanophilin, and Rab27a) in α-MSH-stimulated B16BL6 cells. These results indicate that SGMFAb positively influences skin whitening activities by inhibiting melanogenesis and melanosome-transport-related events in B16BL6 cells, and suggest that SGMFAb is a promising material for developing functional skin whitening agents.
Determination of N-Paraffins Content in Crude Oil via Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Associated with Chemometric Approaches
Authors: Sarkisov Sergey A. , Ivanova Ludmila V. , Primerova Olga V. , Koshelev Vladimir N.
Published: November 2023

This study explores the potential application of NIR spectroscopy coupled with different linear and nonlinear models for rapid evaluation of n-alkanes in crude oil. Samples for calibration were 30 model mixtures of n-eicosane in crude oil samples with a concentration of 1–15%. The prediction models were established based on 21 methods: linear regression, regression trees, support vector machines, Gaussian process regression, ensembles of trees, and neural networks. The spectral range 4500–9000 cm−1 was determined to be the most informative for prediction. The prediction capability of lineal regression methods turned out to be unsatisfactory. Nonlinear models were preferred over linear models; better results were obtained using the regression trees method, including «fine tree» (RMSE = 2.8635) and neural networks (RMSE = 2.0157). The LS-SVM model exhibited satisfactory prediction performance (R2 = 0.96, RMSE = 0.91), as did the Gaussian Process Regression Matern 5.2 GPR (R2 = 0.96, RMSE = 1.03) and Gaussian Process Regression (Rational Quadratic) (R2 = 0.95, RMSE = 1.04). Among the 21 chemometric algorithms, the best and weakest models were the LS-SVM and PLSR models, respectively. The LS-SVM model was the optimal model for the prediction of n-alkanes content in crude oil.
Experimental Evaluation of Chemical Reactions Involved in Ultrasonic-Assisted Absorption of Bulk CO2
Authors: Shokrollahi Fatemeh , Lau Kok Keong , Partoon Behzad
Published: November 2023

As the most mature natural gas sweetening process, absorption has always been improved to meet the separation requirement. Recently, ultrasonic irradiation has been proposed as a technique that can intensify CO2 absorption. However, further studies are still required, particularly focusing on the sonochemical effect. Since the influence of the sonochemical effect on the reaction pathway is still debatable, attention must be given to verifying the influence of ultrasonic irradiation on the chemical reactions of CO2 absorption. Hence, this work aims to evaluate the influence of OH˙ radicals generated by the sonochemical effect on the chemical reactions involved during CO2 absorption using promoter-free methyldiethanolamine (MDEA). For the evaluation, various samples under irradiated and non-irradiated conditions are analyzed using the HPLC characterization technique. The results show that the hypothesis of changing the reaction pathway due to the presence of the sonochemical effect is invalid. However, it can accelerate the generation of hydroxyl radicals (OH˙) via water sonolysis. Thus, the origin of sonochemistry in aqueous solutions is defined as water sonolysis. The analysis of the CO2 absorption rate also demonstrates the presence of accelerated chemical reactions (contributed by the OH˙ radicals), which could potentially make the slow kinetic MDEA more practical for industrial application.