bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Torrefaction Pretreatment on the Structural Features and Combustion Characteristics of Biomass-Based Fuel
Authors: Yang Xu , Zhao Yaying , Zhang Lei , Wang Zhuozhi , Zhao Zhong , Zhu Wenkun , Ma Jiao , Shen Boxiong
Published: June 2023

Wheat straw, a typical agricultural solid waste, was employed to clarify the effects of torrefaction on the structural features and combustion reactivity of biomass. Two typical torrefaction temperatures (543 K and 573 K), four atmospheres (argon, 6 vol.% O2, dry flue gas and raw flue gas) were selected. The elemental distribution, compositional variation, surface physicochemical structure and combustion reactivity of each sample were identified using elemental analysis, XPS, N2 adsorption, TGA and FOW methods. Oxidative torrefaction tended to optimize the fuel quality of biomass effectively, and the enhancement of torrefaction severity improved the fuel quality of wheat straw. The O2, CO2 and H2O in flue gas could synergistically enhance the desorption of hydrophilic structures during oxidative torrefaction process, especially at high temperatures. Meanwhile, the variations in microstructure of wheat straw promoted the conversion of N-A into edge nitrogen structures (N-5 and N-6), especially N-5, which is a precursor of HCN. Additionally, mild surface oxidation tended to promote the generation of some new oxygen-containing functionalities with high reactivity on the surface of wheat straw particles after undergoing oxidative torrefaction pretreatment. Due to the removal of hemicellulose and cellulose from wheat straw particles and the generation of new functional groups on the particle surfaces, the ignition temperature of each torrefied sample expressed an increasing tendency, while the Ea clearly decreased. According to the results obtained from this research, it could be concluded that torrefaction conducted in a raw flue gas atmosphere at 573 K would improve the fuel quality and reactivity of wheat straw most significantly.
Protein Interactions in Rhodopseudomonas palustris TIE-1 Reveal the Molecular Basis for Resilient Photoferrotrophic Iron Oxidation
Authors: Trindade Inês B. , Firmino Maria O. , Noordam Sander J. , Alves Alexandra S. , Fonseca Bruno M. , Piccioli Mario , Louro Ricardo O.
Published: June 2023

Rhodopseudomonas palustris is an alphaproteobacterium with impressive metabolic versatility, capable of oxidizing ferrous iron to fix carbon dioxide using light energy. Photoferrotrophic iron oxidation is one of the most ancient metabolisms, sustained by the pio operon coding for three proteins: PioB and PioA, which form an outer-membrane porin–cytochrome complex that oxidizes iron outside of the cell and transfers the electrons to the periplasmic high potential iron–sulfur protein (HIPIP) PioC, which delivers them to the light-harvesting reaction center (LH-RC). Previous studies have shown that PioA deletion is the most detrimental for iron oxidation, while, the deletion of PioC resulted in only a partial loss. The expression of another periplasmic HiPIP, designated Rpal_4085, is strongly upregulated in photoferrotrophic conditions, making it a strong candidate for a PioC substitute. However, it is unable to reduce the LH-RC. In this work we used NMR spectroscopy to map the interactions between PioC, PioA, and the LH-RC, identifying the key amino acid residues involved. We also observed that PioA directly reduces the LH-RC, and this is the most likely substitute upon PioC deletion. By contrast, Rpal_4085 demontrated significant electronic and structural differences from PioC. These differences likely explain its inability to reduce the LH-RC and highlight its distinct functional role. Overall, this work reveals the functional resilience of the pio operon pathway and further highlights the use of paramagnetic NMR for understanding key biological processes.
Stereochemistry of N-Acyl-5H-dibenzo[b,d]azepin-7(6H)-ones
Authors: Chiba Arisa , Tanaka Ryoko , Hotta Mayuno , Nakamura Kayo , Makino Kosho , Tabata Hidetsugu , Oshitari Tetsuta , Natsugari Hideaki , Takahashi Hideyo
Published: June 2023

The stereochemical properties of N-acyl-5H-dibenzo[b,d]azepin-7(6H)-ones (2a–c), which inhibit potassium channels in T cells, were examined by freezing their conformational change due to 4-methyl substitution. N-Acyl-5H-dibenzo[b,d]azepin-7(6H)-ones exist as pairs of enantiomers [(a1R, a2R), (a1S, a2S)], and each atropisomer is separable at room temperature. An alternate procedure for preparing 5H-dibenzo[b,d]azepin-7(6H)-ones involves the intramolecular Friedel–Crafts cyclization of N-benzyloxycarbonylated biaryl amino acids. Consequently, the N-benzyloxy group was removed during the cyclization reaction to produce 5H-dibenzo[b,d]azepin-7(6H)-ones suitable for the subsequent N-acylation reaction.
Facile Recrystallization Process for Tuning the Crystal Morphology and Thermal Safety of Industrial Grade PYX
Authors: Zhang Mi , Fu Jianbo , Ren Hui , Li Shengfu , Sun Xiaole , Jiao Qingjie
Published: June 2023

In this study, the crystal appearance of industrial grade 2,6-diamino-3,5-dinitropyridine (PYX) was mostly needle-shaped or rod-shaped with an average aspect ratio of 3.47 and roundness of 0.47. According to national military standards, the explosion percentage of impact sensitivity s about 40% and friction sensitivity is about 60%. To improve loading density and pressing safety, the solvent–antisolvent method was used to optimize the crystal morphology, i.e., to reduce the aspect ratio and increase the roundness value. Firstly, the solubility of PYX in DMSO, DMF, and NMP was measured by the static differential weight method, and the solubility model was established. The results showed that the Apelblat equation and Van’t Hoff equation could be used to clarify the temperature dependence of PYX solubility in a single solvent. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to characterize the morphology of the recrystallized samples. After recrystallization, the aspect ratio of the samples decreased from 3.47 to 1.19, and roundness increased from 0.47 to 0.86. The morphology was greatly improved, and the particle size decreased. The structures before and after recrystallization were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (IR). The results showed that no chemical structure changes occurred during recrystallization, and the chemical purity was improved by 0.7%. According to the GJB-772A-97 explosion probability method, the mechanical sensitivity of explosives was characterized. After recrystallization, the impact sensitivity of explosives was significantly reduced from 40% to 12%. A differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) was used to study the thermal decomposition. The thermal decomposition temperature peak of the sample after recrystallization was 5 °C higher than that of the raw PYX. The thermal decomposition kinetic parameters of the samples were calculated by AKTS software, and the thermal decomposition process under isothermal conditions was predicted. The results showed that the activation energy (E) of the samples after recrystallization was higher by 37.9~527.6 kJ/mol than raw PYX, so the thermal stability and safety of the recrystallized samples were improved.
Capsaicin Changes the Pattern of Brain Rhythms in Sleeping Rats
Authors: Liu Lei , Tian Yuhua
Published: June 2023

The heat and capsaicin sensor TRPV1 ion channels were originally discovered in sensory neurons of dorsal root ganglia, and later found in many other tissues and organs. However, whether TRPV1 channels are present in brain regions other than the hypothalamus has been a subject of debate. Here, we addressed this issue with an unbiased functional test by recording electroencephalograms (EEGs) to examine whether capsaicin injection directly into the rat lateral ventricle could alter brain electrical activity. We observed that EEGs during the sleep stage could be significantly perturbed by capsaicin, whereas EEGs during the awake stage did not show a detectable change. Our results are consistent with TRPV1 expression in selective brain regions whose activities are dominative during the sleep stage.
Carbonaceous Material Modified MoO2 Nanospheres with Oxygen Vacancies for Enhanced Visible-Light Photocatalytic Oxidative Coupling of Benzylamine
Authors: Chang Yuhong , Zhang Yanxia , Hu Tianjun , Chen Wenwen , Tang Tao , Luo Ergui , Jia Jianfeng
Published: June 2023

Surface oxygen vacancy (OV) plays a pivotal role in the activation of molecular oxygen and separation of electrons and holes in photocatalysis. Herein, carbonaceous materials-modified MoO2 nanospheres with abundant surface OVs (MoO2/C-OV) were successfully synthesized via glucose hydrothermal processes. In situ introduction of carbonaceous materials triggered a reconstruction of the MoO2 surface, which introduced abundant surface OVs on the MoO2/C composites. The surface oxygen vacancies on the obtained MoO2/C-OV were confirmed via electron spin resonance spectroscopy (ESR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The surface OVs and carbonaceous materials boosted the activation of molecular oxygen to singlet oxygen (1O2) and superoxide anion radical (•O2−) in selectively photocatalytic oxidation of benzylamine to imine. The conversion of benzylamine was 10 times that of pristine MoO2 nanospheres with a high selectivity under visible light irradiation at 1 atm air pressure. These results open an avenue to modify Mo-based materials for visible light-driven photocatalysis.
Tricyclic Diterpenoids Selectively Suppress Androgen Receptor-Positive Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Sekhon Inderpal , Chen Guanglin , Piri Keyara , Shinkawa Seiji , Ashong Dennis , Zhang Qiang , Wang Guangdi , Chen Qiao-Hong
Published: June 2023

Androgen receptor (AR) is a viable therapeutic target for lethal castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), because the continued progression of CRPC is mainly driven by the reactivation of AR transcriptional activity. The current FDA-approved AR antagonists binding to ligand binding domain (LBD) become ineffective in CRPC with AR gene amplification, LBD mutation, and the evolution of LBD-truncated AR splice variants. Encouraged by the fact that tricyclic aromatic diterpenoid QW07 has recently been established as a potential N-terminal AR antagonist, this study aims to explore the structure–activity relationship of tricyclic diterpenoids and their potential to suppress AR-positive cell proliferation. Dehydroabietylamine, abietic acid, dehydroabietic acid, and their derivatives were selected, since they have a similar core structure as QW07. Twenty diterpenoids were prepared for the evaluation of their antiproliferative potency on AR-positive prostate cancer cell models (LNCaP and 22Rv1) using AR-null cell models (PC-3 and DU145) as comparisons. Our data indicated that six tricyclic diterpenoids possess greater potency than enzalutamide (FDA-approved AR antagonist) towards LNCaP and 22Rv1 AR-positive cells, and four diterpenoids are more potent than enzalutamide against 22Rv1 AR-positive cells. The optimal derivative possesses greater potency (IC50 = 0.27 µM) and selectivity than QW07 towards AR-positive 22Rv1 cells.
Extended BODIPYs as Red–NIR Laser Radiation Sources with Emission from 610 nm to 750 nm
Authors: Oliden-Sánchez Ainhoa , Alvarado-Martínez Enrique , Ramírez-Ornelas Diana E. , Vázquez Miguel A. , Avellanal-Zaballa Edurne , Bañuelos Jorge , Peña-Cabrera Eduardo
Published: June 2023

Herein, we report the synthetic access to a set of π-extended BODIPYs featuring a penta-arylated (phenyl and/or thiophene) dipyrrin framework. We take advantage of the full chemoselective control of 8-methylthio-2,3,5,6-tetrabromoBODIPY when we conduct the Liebeskind–Srogl cross-coupling (LSCC) to functionalize exclusively the meso-position, followed by the tetra-Suzuki reaction to arylate the halogenated sites. All these laser dyes display absorption and emission bands in the red edge of the visible spectrum reaching the near-infrared with thiophene functionalization. The emission efficiency, both fluorescence and laser, of the polyphenylBODIPYs can be enhanced upon decoration of the peripheral phenyls with electron donor/acceptor groups at para positions. Alternatively, the polythiopheneBODIPYs show an astonishing laser performance despite the charge transfer character of the emitting state. Therefore, these BODIPYs are suitable as a palette of stable and bright laser sources covering the spectral region from 610 nm to 750 nm.
Special Issue “Organophosphorus Chemistry: A New Perspective”
Authors: Adamek Jakub
Published: June 2023

The European Chemical Society (EuChemS) and the European Parliament (Science and Policy Workshop, 25 May 2023) recognize phosphorus as one of the key chemical elements in daily life [...]
LC–MS Metabolomic Profiling of Five Types of Unrefined, Cold-Pressed Seed Oils to Identify Markers to Determine Oil Authenticity and to Test for Oil Adulteration
Authors: Sumara Agata , Stachniuk Anna , Trzpil Alicja , Bartoszek Adrian , Montowska Magdalena , Fornal Emilia
Published: June 2023

The authenticity of food products marketed as health-promoting foods—especially unrefined, cold-pressed seed oils—should be controlled to ensure their quality and safeguard consumers and patients. Metabolomic profiling using liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC–QTOF) was employed to identify authenticity markers for five types of unrefined, cold-pressed seed oils: black seed oil (Nigella sativa L.), pumpkin seed oil (Cucurbita pepo L.), evening primrose oil (Oenothera biennis L.), hemp oil (Cannabis sativa L.) and milk thistle oil (Silybum marianum). Of the 36 oil-specific markers detected, 10 were established for black seed oil, 8 for evening primrose seed oil, 7 for hemp seed oil, 4 for milk thistle seed oil and 7 for pumpkin seed oil. In addition, the influence of matrix variability on the oil-specific metabolic markers was examined by studying binary oil mixtures containing varying volume percentages of each tested oil and each of three potential adulterants: sunflower, rapeseed and sesame oil. The presence of oil-specific markers was confirmed in 7 commercial oil mix products. The identified 36 oil-specific metabolic markers proved useful for confirming the authenticity of the five target seed oils. The ability to detect adulterations of these oils with sunflower, rapeseed and sesame oil was demonstrated.
Bioinformatics Analysis of the Molecular Networks Associated with the Amelioration of Aberrant Gene Expression by a Tyr–Trp Dipeptide in Brains Treated with the Amyloid-β Peptide
Authors: Hamano Momoko , Ichinose Takashi , Yasuda Tokio , Ishijima Tomoko , Okada Shinji , Abe Keiko , Tashiro Kosuke , Furuya Shigeki
Published: June 2023

Short-chain peptides derived from various protein sources have been shown to exhibit diverse bio-modulatory and health-promoting effects in animal experiments and human trials. We recently reported that the oral administration of the Tyr–Trp (YW) dipeptide to mice markedly enhances noradrenaline metabolism in the brain and ameliorates the working-memory deficits induced by the β-amyloid 25–35 peptide (Aβ25–35). In the current study, we performed multiple bioinformatics analyses of microarray data from Aβ25–35/YW-treated brains to determine the mechanism underlying the action of YW in the brain and to infer the molecular mechanisms and networks involved in the protective effect of YW in the brain. We found that YW not only reversed inflammation-related responses but also activated various molecular networks involving a transcriptional regulatory system, which is mediated by the CREB binding protein (CBP), EGR-family proteins, ELK1, and PPAR, and the calcium-signaling pathway, oxidative stress tolerance, and an enzyme involved in de novo l-serine synthesis in brains treated with Aβ25–35. This study revealed that YW has a neuroprotective effect against Aβ25–35 neuropathy, suggesting that YW is a new functional-food-material peptide.
Effect of School-Based Educational Intervention on Promoting Healthy Dietary Habits in Danish Schoolchildren: The FOODcamp Case Study
Authors: Outzen Malene , Thorsen Anne-Vibeke , Davydova Aleksandra , Thyregod Camilla , Christensen Tue , Grønborg Ida , Trolle Ellen , Sabinsky Marianne , Ravn-Haren Gitte
Published: June 2023

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of the school-based educational intervention “FOODcamp” on dietary habits among 6th–7th graders (aged 11–13 years), focusing on the food groups: fruits and vegetables, fish, meat, discretionary food, and sugar-sweetened beverages. In this cluster-based quasi-experimental controlled intervention study, 16 intervention classes (322 children) and 16 control classes (267 children) from nine schools were recruited during the school year 2019–2020. The children were asked to record their food intake for four consecutive days (Wednesday to Saturday) before (baseline) and after (follow-up) attending FOODcamp, using a validated self-administered web-based dietary record. Eligible dietary intake registrations from 124 and 118 children from the control and interventions classes, respectively, were included in the final statistical analysis. Hierarchical mixed model analysis was used to evaluate the effect of the intervention. No statistically significant effects of participating in FOODcamp were found on the average food intake of the food groups eaten regularly (vegetables, fruit, vegetables/fruit/juice combined, or meat) (p > 0.05). Among the food groups not eaten regularly (fish, discretionary foods, and sugar-sweetened beverages), a non-significant tendency to lower odds of consuming sugar-sweetened beverages from baseline to follow-up (OR = 0.512; 95% CI: 0.261–1.003; p = 0.0510) was seen among FOODcamp participants compared to control participants. In conclusion, this study found no effect of the educational intervention FOODcamp on the dietary intake of vegetables, fruit, vegetable/fruit/juice combined, meat, fish, or sugar-sweetened beverages. The intake frequency of sugar-sweetened beverages tended to decrease among FOODcamp participants.
Taxifolin Suppresses Inflammatory Responses of High-Glucose-Stimulated Mouse Microglia by Attenuating the TXNIP–NLRP3 Axis
Authors: Iwasa Masayo , Kato Hisashi , Iwashita Kaori , Yamakage Hajime , Kato Sayaka , Saito Satoshi , Ihara Masafumi , Nishimura Hideo , Kawamoto Atsuhiko , Suganami Takayoshi , Tanaka Masashi , Satoh-Asahara Noriko
Published: June 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of dementia, potentially through multifactorial pathologies, including neuroinflammation. Therefore, there is a need to identify novel agents that can suppress neuroinflammation and prevent cognitive impairment in diabetes. In the present study, we demonstrated that a high-glucose (HG) environment elevates the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and triggers inflammatory responses in the mouse microglial cell line BV-2. We further found that thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), a ROS-responsive positive regulator of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, was also upregulated, followed by NLRP3 inflammasome activation and subsequent interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) production in these cells. Conversely, caspase-1 was not significantly activated, suggesting the involvement of noncanonical pathways in these inflammatory responses. Moreover, our results demonstrated that taxifolin, a natural flavonoid with antioxidant and radical scavenging activities, suppressed IL-1β production by reducing the intracellular ROS levels and inhibiting the activation of the TXNIP–NLRP3 axis. These findings suggest the novel anti-inflammatory effects of taxifolin on microglia in an HG environment, which could help develop novel strategies for suppressing neuroinflammation in diabetes.
Mothers In Motion Program: Implementation Process and Acceptability by Community
Authors: Chang Mei-Wei , Militello Lisa , Stephens Janna
Published: June 2023

Background: Implementing lifestyle behavior programs in real-world settings challenges researchers. The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has implemented and sustained Mothers In Motion (MIM)’s client videos for clients to promote healthy lifestyle behaviors, and train-the-trainer videos, for personnel to enhance motivational interviewing techniques since 2015 and 2016, respectively. This paper describes the implementation processes and the results of client video implementation acceptability by WIC personnel. Methods: To document the implementation process, we applied the Framework for Adaptation and Modifications to Evidence-Based Implementation Strategies (FRAME-IS). To evaluate implementation acceptability, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 WIC personnel. A qualitative analysis was conducted to identify the common themes. Results: The facilitators for client video implementation were the inclusion of the target audience and family members addressing daily challenges, easy implementation, and compatibility with daily practice. While videos online facilitated implementation, videos in DVD format could challenge implementation. Conclusions: Future lifestyle intervention programs aimed for future implementation in community settings may consider the inclusion of the target audience and their family members and take into consideration easy implementation and compatibility.
Effects of Treatment with Liraglutide Early after Surgical Intervention on Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Short Bowel Syndrome: A Pilot Observational “Real-Life” Study
Authors: Merlo Fabio Dario , Aimasso Umberto , Ossola Marta , Ippolito Mirko , Cravero Leila , Ponzo Valentina , Bo Simona
Published: June 2023

Liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist, has been shown to have beneficial effects on fecal output in short bowel syndrome (SBS) by small human studies. Its potential effects early after gut resection are not known. In this pilot observational study, we described the 1- and 6-month liraglutide effects in 19 adult patients with a new SBS diagnosis within 1 month after surgical resection. Stomal/fecal and urinary outcomes, serum/urinary electrolytes, and body composition were assessed. Both within-group differences and between-group comparisons with 20 SBS patients refusing liraglutide treatment were evaluated. The main liraglutide-related side effect was mild nausea, except in one patient, who experienced severe nausea/vomiting. The median ostomy/fecal output was significantly reduced by −550 mL/day after 6 months of treatment (vs. −200 mL/day in untreated, p = 0.04). The number of patients reaching a ≥20% output reduction was 10/19 (52.6%) treated vs. 3/20 (15.0%) untreated patients (p = 0.013) at 1 month and 12/19 (63.2%) vs. 6/20 (30.0%) (p = 0.038) at 6 months, respectively. Participants with a clinically relevant output reduction at 6 months had a significantly lower baseline weight and BMI. Energy parenteral supply significantly decreased, while infused volumes, oral energy, and fluid intakes slightly decreased, though not significantly. This pilot study supports liraglutide benefits in ostomy/fecal output early after surgical gut resection in SBS patients, particularly in those with lower baseline weight values.
Serum Anti-Aging Protein α-Klotho Mediates the Association between Diet Quality and Kidney Function
Authors: Cai Qingqing , Hu Shixian , Qi Cancan , Yin Jiawei , Xu Shulan , Hou Fan Fan , Li An
Published: June 2023

Adherence to healthy dietary patterns is associated with a reduced risk of kidney dysfunction. Nevertheless, the age-related mechanisms that underpin the relationship between diet and kidney function remain undetermined. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of serum α-Klotho, an anti-aging protein, in the link between a healthy diet and kidney function. A cross-sectional study was conducted on a cohort of 12,817 individuals aged between 40 and 79 years who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2016. For each participant, the Healthy Eating Index 2015 (HEI-2015) score was calculated as a measure of a healthy dietary pattern. Creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was used to assess kidney function. Multivariable regression models were used to analyze the association between the standardized HEI-2015 score and eGFR after adjusting for potential confounders. Causal mediation analysis was performed to assess whether serum α-Klotho influenced this association. The mean (±SD) eGFR of all individuals was 86.8 ± 19.8 mL/min per 1.73 m2. A high standardized HEI-2015 score was associated with a high eGFR (β [95% CI], 0.94 [0.64–1.23]; p < 0.001). The mediation analysis revealed that serum α-Klotho accounted for 5.6–10.5% of the association of standardized overall HEI-2015 score, total fruits, whole fruits, greens and beans, and whole grain with eGFR in the NHANES. According to the results from the subgroup analysis, serum α-Klotho exerted a mediating effect in the participants aged 60–79 years and in males. A healthy diet may promote kidney function by up-regulating serum anti-aging α-Klotho. This novel pathway suggests important implications for dietary recommendations and kidney health.
Low Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Sheep and Isolation of a Viable Strain from Edible Mutton from Central China
Authors: Jiang Yibao , Xin Shilin , Ma Yiheng , Zhang Heng , Yang Xu , Yang Yurong
Published: June 2023

Sheep are highly susceptible to Toxoplasma gondii, and miscarriage is the main clinical feature. This study investigated 227 sheep samples (210 myocardial tissues from slaughterhouses, 6 ewe serum samples, 3 aborted fetuses, and 8 dead lambs from veterinary clinics) from central China for T. gondii infection. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected using the modified agglutination test (MAT). PCR was performed to detect T. gondii DNA in the tissue samples. The results showed that four samples were seropositive (MAT titer ≥ 1:100), with a seroprevalence of 1.8% (4/227). The seropositive samples included two myocardial samples from a slaughterhouse, one ewe and its aborted fetus from a veterinary clinic. The results revealed that 7 out of 207 (3.4%) sheep tissue samples were PCR-positive, including two myocardial tissue samples from slaughterhouses, three aborted fetuses, and two lambs from veterinary clinics. Toxoplasma gondii vertical transmission had occurred in two of three pairs of ewes and her pups. One viable T. gondii strain (TgSheepCHn14) was isolated from the myocardial tissues of sheep from a slaughterhouse. Tachyzoites were obtained from cell cultures at 70 days following seeding in the brains and lungs of mice. This strain was non-lethal to Swiss mice. The number of parasite brain cysts in mice decreased with time post-infection (p < 0.05). Overall, the prevalence of T. gondii in the sheep samples was low. Although the samples were scattered, and not from planned collections, the current study detected T. gondii antibodies and DNA in aborted fetuses, indicating that vertical transmission could occur and maintain the parasites in sheep herds without exogenous infection.
Recent Advances in the Green Synthesis of Active N-Heterocycles and Their Biological Activities
Authors: Majee Suman , Shilpa  , Sarav Mansi , Banik Bimal Krishna , Ray Devalina
Published: June 2023

N-heterocyclic scaffolds represent a privileged architecture in the process of drug design and development. It has widespread occurrence in synthetic and natural products, either those that are established or progressing as potent drug candidates. Additionally, numerous novel N-heterocyclic analogues with remarkable physiological significance and extended pharmaceutical applications are escalating progressively. Hence, the classical synthetic protocols need to be improvised according to modern requirements for efficient and eco-friendly approaches. Numerous methodologies and technologies emerged to address the green and sustainable production of various pharmaceutically and medicinally important N-heterocyclic compounds in last few years. In this context, the current review unveils greener alternatives for direct access to categorically differentiated N-heterocyclic derivatives and its application in the establishment of biologically active potent molecules for drug design. The green and sustainable methods accentuated in this review includes microwave-assisted reactions, solvent-free approaches, heterogeneous catalysis, ultrasound reactions, and biocatalysis.
Photodynamic Therapy, Probiotics, Acetic Acid, and Essential Oil in the Treatment of Chronic Wounds Infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Chin Jaeson D. , Zhao Lei , Mayberry Trenton G. , Cowan Braydon C. , Wakefield Mark R. , Fang Yujiang
Published: June 2023

As a prevalent medical problem that burdens millions of patients across the world, chronic wounds pose a challenge to the healthcare system. These wounds, often existing as a comorbidity, are vulnerable to infections. Consequently, infections hinder the healing process and complicate clinical management and treatment. While antibiotic drugs remain a popular treatment for infected chronic wounds, the recent rise of antibiotic-resistant strains has hastened the need for alternative treatments. Future impacts of chronic wounds are likely to increase with aging populations and growing obesity rates. With the need for more effective novel treatments, promising research into various wound therapies has seen an increased demand. This review summarizes photodynamic therapy, probiotics, acetic acid, and essential oil studies as developing antibiotic-free treatments for chronic wounds infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Clinicians may find this review informative by gaining a better understanding of the state of current research into various antibiotic-free treatments. Furthermore. this review provides clinical significance, as clinicians may seek to implement photodynamic therapy, probiotics, acetic acid, or essential oils into their own practice.
Novel Bioequivalent Tablet of Solifenacin Succinate Prepared Using Direct Compression Technique for Improved Chemical Stability
Authors: Kim Do Hwan , Ho Myoung Jin , Jeong Chan Kyu , Kang Myung Joo
Published: June 2023

We designed a bioequivalent tablet form of solifenacin succinate (SOL) with an improved storage stability using a direct compression (DC) technique. An optimal direct compressed tablet (DCT) containing an active substance (10 mg), lactose monohydrate, and silicified microcrystalline cellulose as diluents, crospovidone as a disintegrant, and hydrophilic fumed silica as an anti-coning agent was constructed by evaluating the drug content uniformity, mechanical properties, and in vitro dissolution. The physicochemical and mechanical properties of the DCT were as follows: drug content 100.1 ± 0.7%, disintegration time of 6.7 min, over 95% release within 30 min in dissolution media (pH 1.2, 4.0, 6.8, and distilled water), hardness > 107.8 N, and friability ~0.11%. The SOL-loaded tablet fabricated via DC showed an improved stability at 40 °C and RH 75%, exhibiting markedly reduced degradation products compared to those fabricated using ethanol or water-based wet granulation or a marketed product (Vesicare®, Astellas Pharma). Moreover, in a bioequivalence study in healthy subjects (n = 24), the optimized DCT offered a pharmacokinetic profile comparable to that of the marketed product, with no statistical differences in the pharmacokinetic parameters. The 90% CIs for the geometric mean ratios of the test to the reference formulation for the area under the curve and the maximum drug concentration in plasma were 0.98–1.05 and 0.98–1.07, respectively, and satisfied the FDA regulatory criteria for bioequivalence. Thus, we conclude that DCT is a beneficial oral dosage form of SOL with an improved chemical stability.
Dynamic Microscopic Optical Coherence Tomography as a New Diagnostic Tool for Otitis Media
Authors: Leichtle Anke , Penxova Zuzana , Kempin Thorge , Leffers David , Ahrens Martin , König Peter , Brinkmann Ralf , Hüttmann Gereon , Bruchhage Karl-Ludwig , Schulz-Hildebrandt Hinnerk
Published: June 2023

Hypothesis: Otitis media (OM) can be successfully visualized and diagnosed by dynamic microscopic optical coherence tomography (dmOCT). Background: OM is one of the most common infectious diseases and, according to the WHO, one of the leading health problems with high mortality in developing countries. Despite intensive research, the only definitive treatment of therapy-refractory OM for decades has been the surgical removal of inflamed tissue. Thereby, the intra-operative diagnosis is limited to the surgeon’s visual impression. Supportive imaging modalities have been little explored and have not found their way into clinical application. Finding imaging techniques capable of identifying inflamed tissue intraoperatively, therefore, is of significant clinical relevance. Methods: This work investigated a modified version of optical coherence tomography with a microscopic resolution (mOCT) regarding its ability to differentiate between healthy and inflamed tissue. Despite its high resolution, the differentiation of single cells with mOCT is often impossible. A new form of mOCT termed dynamic mOCT (dmOCT) achieves cellular contrast using micro-movements within cells based on their metabolism. It was used in this study to establish correlative measurements with histology. Results: Using dmOCT, images with microscopic resolution were acquired on ex vivo tissue samples of chronic otitis media and cholesteatoma. Imaging with dmOCT allowed the visualization of specific and characteristic cellular and subcellular structures in the cross-sectional images, which can be identified only to a limited extent in native mOCT. Conclusion: We demonstrated for the first time a new marker-free visualization in otitis media based on intracellular motion using dmOCT.
Prehistoric Plant Exploitation and Domestication: An Inspiration for the Science of De Novo Domestication in Present Times
Authors: Hebelstrup Kim Henrik , Azariadis Aristotelis , Cordes Adam , Henriksen Peter Steen , Brinch-Pedersen Henrik
Published: June 2023

De novo domestication is a novel trend in plant genetics, where traits of wild or semi-wild species are changed by the use of modern precision breeding techniques so that they conform to modern cultivation. Out of more than 300,000 wild plant species, only a few were fully domesticated by humans in prehistory. Moreover, out of these few domesticated species, less than 10 species dominate world agricultural production by more than 80% today. Much of this limited diversity of crop exploitation by modern humans was defined early in prehistory at the emergence of sedentary agro-pastoral cultures that limited the number of crops evolving a favorable domestication syndrome. However, modern plant genetics have revealed the roadmaps of genetic changes that led to these domestication traits. Based on such observations, plant scientists are now taking steps towards using modern breeding technologies to explore the potential of de novo domestication of plant species that were neglected in the past. We suggest here that in this process of de novo domestication, the study of Late Paleolithic/Late Archaic and Early Neolithic/Early Formative exploration of wild plants and identification of neglected species can help identify the barriers towards domestication. Modern breeding technologies may then assist us to break these barriers in order to perform de novo domestication to increase the crop species diversity of modern agriculture.
Favorable Heteroaromatic Thiazole-Based Polyurea Derivatives as Interesting Biologically Active Products
Authors: Hussien Mostafa A. , Ashour Gadeer R. , Albukhari Soha M. , Saleh Tamer S. , Hussein Mahmoud A.
Published: June 2023

This research sought to synthesize a new set of heteroaromatic thiazole-based polyurea derivatives with sulfur links in the polymers’ main chains, which were denoted by the acronyms PU1–5. Using pyridine as a solvent, a diphenylsulfide-based aminothiazole monomer (M2) was polymerized via solution polycondensation with varied aromatic, aliphatic, and cyclic diisocyanates. Typical characterization methods were used to confirm the structures of the premonomer, monomer, and fully generated polymers. The XRD results revealed that aromatic-based polymers had higher crystallinity than aliphatic and cyclic derivatives. SEM was used to visualize the surfaces of PU1, PU4, and PU5, revealing spongy and porous shapes, shapes resembling wooden planks and sticks, and shapes resembling coral reefs with floral shapes at various magnifications. The polymers demonstrated thermal stability. The numerical results for PDTmax are listed in the following order, ranked from lowest to highest: PU1 < PU2 < PU3 < PU5 < PU4. The FDT values for the aliphatic-based derivatives (PU4 and PU5) were lower than those for the aromatic-based ones (616, 655, and 665 °C). PU3 showed the greatest inhibitory impact against the bacteria and fungi under investigation. In addition, PU4 and PU5 demonstrated antifungal activities that, in contrast with the other products, were on the lower end of the spectrum. Furthermore, the intended polymers were also tested for the presence of the proteins 1KNZ, 1JIJ, and 1IYL, which are frequently utilized as model organisms for E. coli (Gram-negative bacteria), S. aureus (Gram-positive bacteria), and C. albicans (fungal pathogens). This study’s findings are consistent with the outcomes of the subjective screening.
Novel Chain-End Modification of Polymer Iodides via Reversible Complexation-Mediated Polymerization with Functionalized Radical Generation Agents
Authors: Ohtani Kazuya , Shimizu Kanta , Takahashi Tatsuhiro , Takamura Masumi
Published: June 2023

The modification of polymer chain ends is important in order to produce highly functional polymers. A novel chain-end modification of polymer iodides (Polymer-I) via reversible complexation-mediated polymerization (RCMP) with different functionalized radical generation agents, such as azo compounds and organic peroxides, was developed. This reaction was comprehensively studied for three different polymers, i.e., poly (methyl methacrylate), polystyrene and poly (n-butyl acrylate) (PBA), two different functional azo compounds with aliphatic alkyl and carboxy groups, three different functional diacyl peroxides with aliphatic alkyl, aromatic, and carboxy groups, and one peroxydicarbonate with an aliphatic alkyl group. The reaction mechanism was probed using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). The combination of PBA-I, iodine abstraction catalyst and different functional diacyl peroxides enabled higher chain-end modification to desired moieties from the diacyl peroxide. The dominant key factors for efficiency in this chain-end modification mechanism were the combination rate constant and the amount of radicals generated per unit of time.
New Hydrogels Nanocomposites Based on Chitosan, 2-Formylphenylboronic Acid, and ZnO Nanoparticles as Promising Disinfectants for Duodenoscopes Reprocessing
Authors: Ailincai Daniela , Turin Moleavin Ioana-Andreea , Sarghi Alexandra , Fifere Adrian , Dumbrava Oana , Pinteala Mariana , Balan Gheorghe G. , Rosca Irina
Published: June 2023

New hydrogels nanocomposites, based on iminoboronate hydrogels and ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO–NPs), were obtained and characterised in order to develop a new class of disinfectants able to fight the nosocomial infections produced by duodenoscopes investigation procedures. The formation of the imine linkages between chitosan and the aldehyde was demonstrated using NMR and FTIR spectroscopy, while the supramolecular architecture of the developed systems was evaluated via wide-angle X-ray diffraction and polarised optical microscopy. The morphological characterisation of the systems via scanning electron microscopy revealed the highly porous structure of the materials, in which no ZnO agglomeration could be observed, indicating the very fine and homogenous encapsulation of the nanoparticles into the hydrogels. The newly synthetised hydrogels nanocomposites was proven to have synergistic antimicrobial properties, being very efficient as disinfectants against reference strains as: Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Candida albicans.
Fractionation of Aspen Wood to Produce Microcrystalline, Microfibrillated and Nanofibrillated Celluloses, Xylan and Ethanollignin
Authors: Kuznetsov Boris , Chudina Anna , Kazachenko Aleksandr , Fetisova Olga , Borovkova Valentina , Vorobyev Sergei , Karacharov Anton , Gnidan Elena , Mazurova Elena , Skripnikov Andrey , Taran Oxana
Published: June 2023

A new method for extractive-catalytic fractionation of aspen wood to produce microcrystalline (MCC), microfibrillated (MFC), nanofibrilllated (NFC) celluloses, xylan, and ethanollignin is suggested in order to utilize all of the main components of wood biomass. Xylan is obtained with a yield of 10.2 wt.% via aqueous alkali extraction at room temperature. Ethanollignin was obtained with a yield of 11.2 wt.% via extraction with 60% ethanol from the xylan-free wood at 190 °C. The lignocellulose residue formed after the extraction of xylan and ethanollignin was subjected to catalytic peroxide delignification in the acetic acid-water medium at 100 °C in order to obtain microcrystalline cellulose. MCC is hydrolyzed with 56% sulfuric acid and treated with ultrasound to produce microfibrillated cellulose and nanofibrillated cellulose. The yields of MFC and NFC were 14.4 and 19.0 wt.%, respectively. The average hydrodynamic diameter of NFC particles was 36.6 nm, the crystallinity index was 0.86, and the average zeta-potential was 41.5 mV. The composition and structure of xylan, ethanollignin, cellulose product, MCC, MFC, and NFC obtained from aspen wood were characterized using elemental and chemical analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses, Gas chromatography (GC), Gel permeation-chromatography (GPC), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Atomic force microscopy (AFM), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA).
Study on the Internal Flow Characteristics of Long and Short Blade Runners of a 1000 MW Francis Turbine under Different Opening Conditions
Authors: Chen Hao , Lu Yonggang , Liu Kui , Zhang Zequan , Li Honghui , Huang Xingxing , Zhao Weiqiang , Wang Zhengwei
Published: June 2023

The 1000 MW Francis turbine unit at the Baihetan hydropower station is the maximum capacity unit in the world at present, and it has adopted the runner type with long and short blades. For this ultra-high output Francis turbine, especially with the breakthrough runner structure, the hydraulic excitation phenomenon caused by internal dynamic and static interference is the key factor for the stability of the unit. In this study, the 1000 MW Francis turbine unit is taken as the research object, and the rated output conditions with different guide vane openings are selected for comparative analysis. The flow field structure and the pressure pulsation characteristics inside the guide vane and runner under different openings are obtained. The distribution characteristics and evolution law of the vortex in the runner under different guide vane openings are analyzed. The results show that the dynamic and static interference between the runner and the guide vane induces the local high-speed flow to appear in the vaneless area, and the larger the guide vane opening, the smaller the dynamic and static interference between the runner and the guide vane; the vortex in the runner mainly develops and evolves from the inlet to the outlet and is mainly distributed near the blade wall surface. The pressure pulsation inside the runner is mainly due to the action of dynamic and static interference. The pressure pulsation induced by the dynamic and static interferences shows a decreasing law from the runner inlet to the runner outlet.
A Study on the Dynamic Collision Behaviors of a Hydrous Ethanol Droplet on a Heated Surface
Authors: Zhou Ze , Yan Fuwu , Zhang Gengxin , Wu Dawei , Xu Hongming
Published: June 2023

This study uses high-speed imaging to investigate the dynamic collision behavior of a single hydrous ethanol droplet in different water/ethanol ratios on a heated horizontal glass surface. The initial droplet diameter varied from 3.3 to 4.1 mm, and the impact velocity was 0.57 m/s. The study covers a range of surface temperatures (373 K to 553 K) and ethanol mass fractions (0% to 100%) to reveal four regimes of droplet-impinging behaviors, including quiescent surface evaporation, puffing or partial boiling, explosive nuclear boiling, and the Leidenfrost effect. The addition of volatile ethanol to less volatile water shifts the droplet collision behavior toward explosive boiling and the Leidenfrost phenomenon. As the ethanol mass fraction increased from 0% to 100%, the superheat limit temperature decreased by approximately 80 K, while the Leidenfrost temperature decreased by at least 100 K. The dimensionless droplet diameter in the regime of droplet spreading with quiescent surface evaporation is influenced by surface temperature, surface tension, and viscosity. Meanwhile, the dimensionless diameter and height of a droplet in the regime of the Leidenfrost phenomenon are mainly influenced by its surface tension. The study concludes that a single parameter, such as the superheat level, Weber number, or Reynolds number, is difficult to describe droplet collision behavior, and multiple factors would be required to best describe droplet collision behavior and establish empirical correlations. However, it is feasible to predict partial collision behaviors by using one of the single parameters under certain conditions.
Monitoring Urban Change in Conflict from the Perspective of Optical and SAR Satellites: The Case of Mariupol, a City in the Conflict between RUS and UKR
Authors: Huang Qihao , Jin Guowang , Xiong Xin , Ye Hao , Xie Yuzhi
Published: June 2023

Modern armed conflicts can cause serious humanitarian disasters, and remote sensing technology is critical in monitoring war crimes and assessing post-war damage. In this study, a constrained energy minimization algorithm incorporating the feature bands (IFB-CEM) is designed to detect urban burning areas in optical images. Due to the difficulty of obtaining the ground survey data of the battlefield, the dual-polarization normalized coherence index (DPNCI) is designed based on the multi-temporal synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image, and the quantitative inversion and evaluation of the destruction of urban architecture are combined with the public images on the Internet. The results show that the burning area is widely distributed in the armed conflict region, and the distribution is most concentrated around the Azovstal steel and iron works. The burning area reached its peak around 22 March, and its change is consistent with the conflict process in time and space. About 79.2% of the buildings in the city were severely damaged or completely destroyed, and there was a significant correlation with burning exposure. The results of this study show that publicly available medium-resolution remote sensing data and Internet information have the ability to respond quickly to the damage assessment of armed conflict and can provide preliminary reference information for dealing with humanitarian disasters.