bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Operational DNA Strand Displacement Encryption Approach
Authors: Zhu Enqiang , Luo Xianhang , Liu Chanjuan , Chen Congzhou
Published: March 2022

DeoxyriboNucleic Acid (DNA) encryption is a new encryption method that appeared along with the research of DNA nanotechnology in recent years. Due to the complexity of biology in DNA nanotechnology, DNA encryption brings in an additional difficulty in deciphering and, thus, can enhance information security. As a new approach in DNA nanotechnology, DNA strand displacement has particular advantages such as being enzyme free and self-assembly. However, the existing research on DNA-strand-displacement-based encryption has mostly stayed at a theoretical or simulation stage. To this end, this paper proposes a new DNA-strand-displacement-based encryption framework. This encryption framework involves three main strategies. The first strategy was a tri-phase conversion from plaintext to DNA sequences according to a Huffman-coding-based transformation rule, which enhances the concealment of the information. The second strategy was the development of DNA strand displacement molecular modules, which produce the initial key for information encryption. The third strategy was a cyclic-shift-based operation to extend the initial key long enough, and thus increase the deciphering difficulty. The results of simulation and biological experiments demonstrated the feasibility of our scheme for encryption. The approach was further validated in terms of the key sensitivity, key space, and statistic characteristic. Our encryption framework provides a potential way to realize DNA-strand-displacement-based encryption via biological experiments and promotes the research on DNA-strand-displacement-based encryption.
Quantitative Features Analysis of Water Carrying Nanoparticles of Alumina over a Uniform Surface
Authors: Ganie Abdul Hamid , Fazal Fazlullah , Tavera Romero Carlos Andrés , Sulaiman Muhammad
Published: March 2022

Little is known about the rising impacts of Coriolis force and volume fraction of nanoparticles in industrial, mechanical, and biological domains, with an emphasis on water conveying 47 nm nanoparticles of alumina nanoparticles. We explored the impact of the volume fraction and rotation parameter on water conveying 47 nm of alumina nanoparticles across a uniform surface in this study. The Levenberg–Marquardt backpropagated neural network (LMB-NN) architecture was used to examine the transport phenomena of 47 nm conveying nanoparticles. The partial differential equations (PDEs) are converted into a system of Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs). To assess our soft-computing process, we used the RK4 method to acquire reference solutions. The problem is investigated using two situations, each with three sub-cases for the change of the rotation parameter K and the volume fraction ϕ. Our simulation results are compared to the reference solutions. It has been proven that our technique is superior to the current state-of-the-art. For further explanation, error histograms, regression graphs, and fitness values are graphically displayed.
Unique Astrocyte Cytoskeletal and Nuclear Morphology in a Three-Dimensional Tissue-Engineered Rostral Migratory Stream
Authors: Purvis Erin M. , O’Donnell John C. , Cullen D. Kacy
Published: March 2022

Neural precursor cells (NPCs) are generated in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and travel through the rostral migratory stream (RMS) to replace olfactory bulb interneurons in the brains of most adult mammals. Following brain injury, SVZ-derived NPCs can divert from the RMS and migrate toward injured brain regions but arrive in numbers too low to promote functional recovery without experimental intervention. Our lab has biofabricated a “living scaffold” that replicates the structural and functional features of the endogenous RMS. This tissue-engineered rostral migratory stream (TE-RMS) is a new regenerative medicine strategy designed to facilitate stable and sustained NPC delivery into neuron-deficient brain regions following brain injury or neurodegenerative disease and an in vitro tool to investigate the mechanisms of neuronal migration and cell–cell communication. We have previously shown that the TE-RMS replicates the basic structure and protein expression of the endogenous RMS and can direct immature neuronal migration in vitro and in vivo. Here, we further describe profound morphological changes that occur following precise physical manipulation and subsequent self-assembly of astrocytes into the TE-RMS, including significant cytoskeletal rearrangement and nuclear elongation. The unique cytoskeletal and nuclear architecture of TE-RMS astrocytes mimics astrocytes in the endogenous rat RMS. Advanced imaging techniques reveal the unique morphology of TE-RMS cells that has yet to be described of astrocytes in vitro. The TE-RMS offers a novel platform to elucidate astrocyte cytoskeletal and nuclear dynamics and their relationship to cell behavior and function.
Cardiometabolic Indices after Weight Loss with Calcium or Dairy Foods: Secondary Analyses from a Randomized Trial with Overweight/Obese Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Ilich Jasminka Z. , Liu Pei-Yang , Shin Hyehyung , Kim Youjin , Chi Yichih
Published: March 2022

The role of dairy foods and calcium/vitamin D supplements in cardiometabolic diseases is unknown. The objective of this secondary analysis is to investigate cardiometabolic risk factors changes after a 6-month weight-loss intervention in overweight/obese postmenopausal women divided in three groups: Ca+vitamin D supplements (S); low-fat dairy foods (D; 4–5 servings/day); or control/placebo pills (C), as complements to hypocaloric diets. The original study focused on bone/body composition. This analysis included blood pressure (BP), and serum triglycerides, lipids (including apoproteins Apo1 and ApoB), adipokines, and C-reactive protein in n = 97 participants who finished with complete data points. Systolic BP decreased 5.1%, 4.8%, and 1.8% in S, D, and C groups, respectively (p < 0.05 for S and D vs. baseline and vs. C at 6 months). Reduction in triglycerides and ratio of total cholesterol (TC)/high-density lipoproteins cholesterol (HDL-C) was the highest in S, while the reduction in TC and LDL-C was the highest in D group (all p < 0.05). Leptin and ApoB significantly decreased and adiponectin and ApoA1 increased in all groups. In conclusion, although the C group’s participants experienced an improvement in some of the cardiometabolic indices with weight loss, those in the S and D groups showed significantly better results in most of the outcomes, indicating the beneficial effects of low-fat dairy foods and/or Ca+vitamin D intake as complements to a hypocaloric diet.
Association between Dietary Calcium and Potassium and Diabetic Retinopathy: A Cross-Sectional Retrospective Study
Authors: Chen Yuan-Yuei , Chen Ying-Jen
Published: March 2022

Background: Micronutrients are considered to have an important role in metabolic process. The relationships between micronutrients and diabetic complication, such as retinopathy, are rarely discussed. The main purpose of the current study was to investigate the relationship between dietary micronutrients and diabetic retinopathy in an adult population. Methods: 5321 participants from National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2008 were included in this cross-sectional study. Diabetic retinopathy was diagnosed by the severity scale of the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) using nonmydriatic fundus photography. Micronutrients were assessed by 24-h dietary recall. The relationship between dietary micronutrients and the occurrence of diabetic retinopathy was analyzed by a logistic regression model. Results: Dietary calcium and potassium were inversely associated with diabetic retinopathy (OR: 0.729, 95%CI: 0.562–0.945; OR: 0.875, 95%CI: 0.787–0.973). Higher quartile of dietary calcium and potassium was associated with lower occurrence of diabetic retinopathy (OR: 0.664, 95%CI: 0.472–0.933; OR: 0.700, 95%CI: 0.495–0.989). Furthermore, increased amounts of dietary calcium and potassium were significantly associated with reduced occurrence of diabetic retinopathy (OR: 0.701, 95%CI: 0.546–0.900; OR: 0.761, 95%CI: 0.596–0.972). Conclusions: Higher levels of dietary calcium and potassium are suggested to reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy with dose–response effect. The evaluation of dietary micronutrients might be a part of treatment for patients with diabetic complications.
EGCG Prevents the Onset of an Inflammatory and Cancer-Associated Adipocyte-like Phenotype in Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells in Response to the Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Secretome
Authors: Gonzalez Suarez Narjara , Fernandez-Marrero Yuniel , Torabidastgerdooei Sima , Annabi Borhane
Published: March 2022

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells secretome induces a pro-inflammatory microenvironment within the adipose tissue, which hosts both mature adipocytes and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (ADMSC). The subsequent acquisition of a cancer-associated adipocyte (CAA)-like phenotype is, however, unknown in ADMSC. While epidemiological studies suggest that consuming a polyphenol-rich diet reduces the incidence of some obesity-related cancers, the chemopreventive impact of green tea-derived epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) against the cues that trigger the CAA phenotype remain undocumented in ADMSC. Methods: Human ADMSC were exposed to human TNBC-derived MDA-MB-231 conditioned media (TNBC cells secretome) supplemented or not with EGCG. Differential gene expression was assessed through RNA-Seq analysis and confirmed by RT-qPCR. Protein expression levels and the activation status of signal transduction pathways mediators were determined by Western blotting. ADMSC chemotaxis was assessed by a real-time cell migration assay. Results: The TNBC cells secretome induced in ADMSC the expression of the CAA cytokines CCL2, CCL5, IL-1β, and IL-6, and of immunomodulators COX2, HIF-1α, VEGFα, and PD-L1. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal biomarker Snail was found to control the CAA phenotype. EGCG inhibited the induction of CAA genes and the activation status of Smad2 and NF-κB. The induced chemotactic response was also inhibited by EGCG. Conclusion: The induction of an inflammatory and CAA-like phenotype in ADMSC can be triggered by the TNBC cells secretome, while still efficiently prevented by diet-derived polyphenols.
Citrus junos Tanaka Peel Extract and Its Bioactive Naringin Reduce Fine Dust-Induced Respiratory Injury Markers in BALB/c Male Mice
Authors: Lee Dong-Hun , Woo Jin-Kyung , Heo Wan , Huang Wen-Yan , Kim Yunsik , Chung Soohak , Lee Gyeong-Hweon , Park Jae-Woong , Han Bok-Kyung , Shin Eui-Chul , Pan Jeong-Hoon , Kim Jae-Kyeom , Kim Young-Jun
Published: March 2022

Particulate matter (PM) 10 refers to fine dust with a diameter of less than 10 µm and induces apoptosis and inflammatory responses through oxidative stress. Citrus junos Tanaka is a citrus fruit and contains bioactive flavonoids including naringin. In the present study, we aimed to identify the preventive effect of Citrus junos Tanaka peel extract (CPE) against PM10-induced lung injury. As a proof of concept, NCI-H460 cells were treated with CPE (800 μg/mL, 12 h) in conjunction with PM10 to examine intracellular antioxidative capacity in the pulmonary system. In an in vivo model, male BALB/c mice (n = 8/group) were randomly assigned into five groups: NEG (saline-treated), POS (PM10 only), NAR (PM10 + naringin, 100 mg/kg), CPL (PM10 + CPE low, 100 mg/kg), and CPH (PM10 + CPE high, 400 mg/kg). Intervention groups received dietary supplementations for 7 days followed by PM10 exposure (100 mg/kg, intranasal instillation). Compared to the NEG, the CPE decreased to 22% of the ROS generation and significantly increased cell viability in vitro. The histological assessments confirmed that pulmonary damages were alleviated in the PM10 + CPL group compared to the POS. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and NF-κB/apoptosis signaling-related markers were decreased in the PM10 + CPL group compared to the POS. These results indicated that CPE showed promising efficacy in preventing pulmonary injuries in vivo. Such protection can be explained by the anti-oxidative capacity of CPE, likely due to its bioactives, including naringin (7.74 mg/g CPE). Follow-up human intervention, as well as population-level studies, will further shed light on the preventive efficacy of CPE against pulmonary damage in humans.
The Problem of Malnutrition Associated with Major Depressive Disorder from a Sex-Gender Perspective
Authors: García-Montero Cielo , Ortega Miguel A. , Alvarez-Mon Miguel Angel , Fraile-Martinez Oscar , Romero-Bazán Adoración , Lahera Guillermo , Montes-Rodríguez José Manuel , Molina-Ruiz Rosa M. , Mora Fernando , Rodriguez-Jimenez Roberto , Quintero Javier , Álvarez-Mon Melchor
Published: March 2022

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is an incapacitating condition characterized by loss of interest, anhedonia and low mood, which affects almost 4% of people worldwide. With rising prevalence, it is considered a public health issue that affects economic productivity and heavily increases health costs alone or as a comorbidity for other pandemic non-communicable diseases (such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, inflammatory bowel diseases, etc.). What is even more noteworthy is the double number of women suffering from MDD compared to men. In fact, this sex-related ratio has been contemplated since men and women have different sexual hormone oscillations, where women meet significant changes depending on the age range and moment of life (menstruation, premenstruation, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause…), which seem to be associated with susceptibility to depressive symptoms. For instance, a decreased estrogen level promotes decreased activation of serotonin transporters. Nevertheless, sexual hormones are not the only triggers that alter neurotransmission of monoamines and other neuropeptides. Actually, different dietary habits and/or nutritional requirements for specific moments of life severely affect MDD pathophysiology in women. In this context, the present review aims to descriptively collect information regarding the role of malnutrition in MDD onset and course, focusing on female patient and especially macro- and micronutrient deficiencies (amino acids, ω3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3 PUFAs), folate, vitamin B12, vitamin D, minerals…), besides providing evidence for future nutritional intervention programs with a sex-gender perspective that hopefully improves mental health and quality of life in women.
Polish Adaptation and Validation of the Intuitive (IES-2) and Mindful (MES) Eating Scales—The Relationship of the Concepts with Healthy and Unhealthy Food Intake (a Cross-Sectional Study)
Authors: Małachowska Aleksandra , Jeżewska-Zychowicz Marzena
Published: March 2022

Intuitive (IE) and mindful (ME) eating share internally focused eating, yet previous studies have shown that these concepts are not strongly correlated, which suggests that they might be differently related to food intake. The study aimed to adapt the original Intuitive (IES-2) and Mindful (MES) Eating Scales to the Polish language, to test their psychometric parameters and, further, to examine associations of IE and ME with an intake of selected food groups, i.e., healthy foods (fresh and processed vegetables, fresh fruit) and unhealthy foods (sweets, salty snacks). A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2020 in a group of 1000 Polish adults (500 women and 500 men) aged 18–65 (mean age = 41.3 ± 13.6 years). The factor structure was assessed with exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory (CFA) factor analysis as well as structural equation modeling (SEM). Measurement invariance across gender was assessed with multiple-group analysis. Internal consistency and discriminant validity of the two scales was tested. Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to examine the correlation between IES-2 and MES subscales with food intake. A 4-factor, 16-item structure was confirmed for IES-2, while EFA and CFA revealed a 3-factor, 17-item structure of MES. Both scales demonstrated adequate internal consistency and discriminant validity. Full metric and partial scalar invariance were found for IES-2, while MES proved partial invariances. “Awareness” (MES) and “Body–Food Choice Congruence” (IES-2) positively correlated with intake of healthy foods and negatively with the intake of unhealthy ones. “Eating For Physical Rather Than Emotional Reasons” (IES-2) and “Act with awareness” (MES) favored lower intake of unhealthy foods, whereas “Unconditional Permission to Eat” and “Reliance on Hunger and Satiety Cues” (IES-2) showed an inverse relationship. A greater score in “Acceptance” (MES) was conducive to lower intake of all foods except sweets. The results confirmed that adapted versions of the IES-2 and MES are valid and reliable measures to assess IE and ME among Polish adults. Different IE and ME domains may similarly explain intake of healthy and unhealthy foods, yet within a single eating style, individual domains might have the opposite effect. Future studies should confirm our findings with the inclusion of mediating factors, such as other eating styles, childhood experiences, dieting, etc.
A Theoretical Description of Node-Aligned Resonant Waveguide Gratings
Authors: Meudt Maik , Henkel Andreas , Buchmüller Maximilian , Görrn Patrick
Published: March 2022

Waveguide gratings are used for applications such as guided-mode resonance filters and fiber-to-chip couplers. A waveguide grating typically consists of a stack of a single-mode slab waveguide and a grating. The filling factor of the grating with respect to the mode intensity profile can be altered via changing the waveguide’s refractive index. As a result, the propagation length of the mode is slightly sensitive to refractive index changes. Here, we theoretically investigate whether this sensitivity can be increased by using alternative waveguide grating geometries. Using rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA), the filling factors of the modes of waveguide gratings supporting more than one mode are simulated. It is observed that both long propagation lengths and large sensitivities with respect to refractive index changes can be achieved by using the intensity nodes of higher-order modes.
Evolution of Anesthetic Techniques for Shoulder Surgery: A Narrative Review
Authors: Gargano Francesca , Migliorelli Sabrina , Strumia Alessandro , Carassiti Massimiliano , Agrò Felice Eugenio
Published: March 2022

Shoulder surgery has radically evolved within the last 70 years, from a marginal orthopedic sub-specialty to an area of great research and advancement; consequently, anesthetic techniques have undergone important development. In fact, a wide variety of anesthetic strategies have emerged, to provide anesthesia and post-operative analgesia: general anesthesia (GA), regional anesthesia (RA), or combined GA and RA. A literature review on online databases was carried out about the different anesthetic approaches for shoulder surgery and their evolution through the years, taking in consideration papers from 1929 to 2021. A comprehensive preoperative assessment of patients undergoing shoulder surgery allows to identify and modify potential risk factors and complications of general anesthesia. Moreover, the use of ultrasound-guided regional blocks could improve the effectiveness of these techniques and bring better postoperative outcomes. Anesthetic management for shoulder surgery has progressed drastically during the last century. More studies are needed to finally standardize anesthetic techniques for specific procedure.
Animal, Herd and Feed Characteristics Associated with Blastocystis Prevalence and Molecular Diversity in Dairy Cattle from the North of France
Authors: Audebert Christophe , Gantois Nausicaa , Ducrocq Sébastien , Darras Marianne , Merlin Sophie , Martel Sophie , Viscogliosi Eric , Even Gaël , Chabé Magali
Published: March 2022

Despite the major impact of Blastocystis sp. in terms of prevalence in human and animal populations and the risk of zoonotic transmission, no epidemiological survey has yet been conducted in cattle herds in France. The aim of this study was thus to assess the prevalence and molecular diversity of Blastocystis sp. and associated factors in dairy cattle from the north of France. A total of 1581 fecal samples were collected from 1246 animals reared in 20 farms. Molecular detection of the protozoan was performed by real-time PCR and indicated an overall prevalence of Blastocystis sp. reaching 54.8% in the study population. Important inter-herd variation (from 22.2% to 76.5%) of Blastocystis sp. prevalence was also reported. Sequence analysis of 159 positive samples highlighted a very large predominance of ST10 (36/159) and ST14 (64/159), and ST2 was only found in 2 samples. Mixed subtype infections were common, representing 35.8% of sequenced samples (57/159). A putative correlation between Blastocystis sp. colonization and various animal and herd characteristics or feed intake was subsequently investigated. The protozoan was less prevalent in cows that have recently calved but Blastocystis sp. carriage was not significantly related to age. Blastocystis sp. colonization also decreased with high beet pulp and pasture grass consumption and increased with corn silage intake. Finally, the only significant association between Blastocystis sp. STs and animal and herd characteristics was the number of lactations of cows, with a predominance of ST14 in cows that calved once only.
The Lack of the Association of the CCR5 Genotype with the Clinical Presentation and Frequency of Tick-Borne Encephalitis in the Polish Population
Authors: Grygorczuk Sambor , Dunaj-Małyszko Justyna , Sulik Artur , Toczyłowski Kacper , Czupryna Piotr , Żebrowska Agnieszka , Parczewski Miłosz
Published: March 2022

Background: The host factors influencing the susceptibility to and the severity of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) are poorly defined. The loss-of-function Δ32 mutation in the chemokine receptor gene CCR5 was identified as a risk factor for West Nile encephalitis and possibly for TBE, suggesting a protective role of CCR5 in Flavivirus encephalitis. Methods: We studied the CCR5 genotype in 205 TBE patients stratified by a clinical presentation and 257 controls from the same endemic area (Podlasie, Poland). The genotype distribution between the groups and differences between TBE patients with different genotypes were analyzed. Results: There were 36 (17.6%) CCR5Δ32 heterozygotes and 3 (1.5%) homozygotes in the TBE group, with no statistically significant difference in comparison with the controls. The CCR5Δ32 allele did not associate with the clinical presentation or the severity of TBE. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) inflammatory parameters did not differ between the wild-type (wt/wt) and wt/Δ32 genotype patients. The TBE clinical presentation and CSF parameters in three Δ32/Δ32 homozygotes were unremarkable. Conclusions: The lack of association of CCR5Δ32 with the risk and clinical presentation of TBE challenges the suspected CCR5 protective role. CCR5 is not indispensable for the effective immune response against the TBE virus.
Laboratory Evaluation of a Basic Recombinase Polymerase Amplification (RPA) Assay for Early Detection of Schistosoma japonicum
Authors: Deng Wangping , Wang Shenglin , Wang Liping , Lv Chao , Li Yinlong , Feng Ting , Qin Zhiqiang , Xu Jing
Published: March 2022

Early detection of Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) within its intermediate and definitive hosts is crucial for case finding and disease surveillance, especially in low-endemic areas. Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) has many advantages over traditional methods of DNA-amplification, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), including high sensitivity and specificity whilst being deployable in resource-poor schistosomiasis-endemic areas. Here, we evaluated the performance of a basic RPA assay targeting the 28srDNA gene fragment of S. japonicum (Sj28srDNA) using schistosome-infected Oncomelania hupensis (O. hupensis) and mouse models, compared to the traditional pathological method and a PCR assay. Overall S. japonicum infection prevalence within O. hupensis hosts by microscopic dissection, PCR and RPA was 9.29% (13/140), 32.14% (45/140) and 51.43% (72/140), respectively, presenting significant differences statistically (χ2 = 58.31, p < 0.001). It was noteworthy that infection prevalence by PCR and RPA performed was 34.44% (31/90) and 53.33% (48/90) in snails within 6 weeks post-infection, while the dissection method detected all samples as negatives. In addition, the basic RPA assay presented positive results from the fourth week post-infection and third day post-infection when detecting fecal DNA and serum DNA, respectively, which were extracted from a pooled sample from mice infected with 20 S. japonicum cercariae. This study suggests that the RPA assay has high potential for early detection of S. japonicum infection within its intermediate and definitive hosts.
Alpinumisoflavone Disrupts Endoplasmic Reticulum and Mitochondria Leading to Apoptosis in Human Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Hong Taeyeon , Ham Jiyeon , Song Gwonhwa , Lim Whasun
Published: March 2022

Alpinumisoflavone is a prenylated isoflavonoid derived from the Cudrania tricuspidate fruit and Genista pichisermolliana. Alpinumisoflavone has anticancer properties in a variety of cancer cells, including colorectal, esophageal, renal and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, its mechanisms and effects in ovarian cancer remain unexplored. Our findings indicate that alpinumisoflavone triggers anti-proliferation in 2D- and 3D-cultured human ovarian cancer (ES2 and OV90) cells, including a reduction in the proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression and sub-G1 phase arrest of the cell cycle. Both alpinumisoflavone-treated ES2 and OV90 cells exhibited an augmentation in late apoptotic cells and the depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). We also observed a decrease in respiratory chain activity in ovarian cancer cells, owing to lower energy output by the alpinumisoflavone. In addition, combining cisplatin (a chemotherapeutic drug used in several malignancies) with alpinumisoflavone boosted apoptosis in ES2 and OV90 cells via a reduction in cell proliferation, induction of late apoptotic cells, and depolarization of MMP. Furthermore, alpinumisoflavone also regulated the PI3K/AKT, MAPK and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress regulatory signaling pathways, leading to cell death in both ES2 and OV90 cells. In general, our findings verified that alpinumisoflavone inhibited ovarian cancer cell growth via mitochondrial malfunction.
Sequential Drug Delivery in Targeted Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yu Han , Ning Na , Meng Xi , Chittasupho Chuda , Jiang Lingling , Zhao Yunqi
Published: March 2022

Cancer is a major public health problem and one of the leading causes of death. However, traditional cancer therapy may damage normal cells and cause side effects. Many targeted drug delivery platforms have been developed to overcome the limitations of the free form of therapeutics and biological barriers. The commonly used cancer cell surface targets are CD44, matrix metalloproteinase-2, folate receptors, etc. Once the drug enters the cell, active delivery of the drug molecule to its final destination is still preferred. The subcellular targeting strategies include using glucocorticoid receptors for nuclear targeting, negative mitochondrial membrane potential and N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase for Golgi apparatus targeting, etc. Therefore, the most effective way to deliver therapeutic agents is through a sequential drug delivery system that simultaneously achieves cellular- and subcellular-level targeting. The dual-targeting delivery holds great promise for improving therapeutic effects and overcoming drug resistance. This review classifies sequential drug delivery systems based on final targeted organelles. We summarize different targeting strategies and mechanisms and gave examples of each case.
Drug Delivery Strategies and Biomedical Significance of Hydrogels: Translational Considerations
Authors: Raina Neha , Pahwa Rakesh , Bhattacharya Jaydeep , Paul Alok K. , Nissapatorn Veeranoot , de Lourdes Pereira Maria , Oliveira Sonia M. R. , Dolma Karma G. , Rahmatullah Mohammed , Wilairatana Polrat , Gupta Madhu
Published: March 2022

Hydrogels are a promising and attractive option as polymeric gel networks, which have immensely fascinated researchers across the globe because of their outstanding characteristics such as elevated swellability, the permeability of oxygen at a high rate, good biocompatibility, easy loading, and drug release. Hydrogels have been extensively used for several purposes in the biomedical sector using versatile polymers of synthetic and natural origin. This review focuses on functional polymeric materials for the fabrication of hydrogels, evaluation of different parameters of biocompatibility and stability, and their application as carriers for drugs delivery, tissue engineering and other therapeutic purposes. The outcome of various studies on the use of hydrogels in different segments and how they have been appropriately altered in numerous ways to attain the desired targeted delivery of therapeutic agents is summarized. Patents and clinical trials conducted on hydrogel-based products, along with scale-up translation, are also mentioned in detail. Finally, the potential of the hydrogel in the biomedical sector is discussed, along with its further possibilities for improvement for the development of sophisticated smart hydrogels with pivotal biomedical functions.
Uncovering Pathways Highly Correlated to NUE through a Combined Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Approach in Eggplant
Authors: Mauceri Antonio , Aci Meriem Miyassa , Toppino Laura , Panda Sayantan , Meir Sagit , Mercati Francesco , Araniti Fabrizio , Lupini Antonio , Panuccio Maria Rosaria , Rotino Giuseppe Leonardo , Aharoni Asaph , Abenavoli Maria Rosa , Sunseri Francesco
Published: March 2022

Nitrogen (N) fertilization is one of the main inputs to increase crop yield and food production. However, crops utilize only 30–40% of N applied; the remainder is leached into the soil, causing environmental and health damage. In this scenario, the improvement of nitrogen-use efficiency (NUE) will be an essential strategy for sustainable agriculture. Here, we compared two pairs of NUE-contrasting eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) genotypes, employing GC-MS and UPLC-qTOF-MS-based technologies to determine the differential profiles of primary and secondary metabolites in root and shoot tissues, under N starvation as well as at short- and long-term N-limiting resupply. Firstly, differences in the primary metabolism pathways of shoots related to alanine, aspartate and glutamate; starch, sucrose and glycine; serine and threonine; and in secondary metabolites biosynthesis were detected. An integrated analysis between differentially accumulated metabolites and expressed transcripts highlighted a key role of glycine accumulation and the related glyA transcript in the N-use-efficient genotypes to cope with N-limiting stress. Interestingly, a correlation between both sucrose synthase (SUS)- and fructokinase (scrK)-transcript abundances, as well as D-glucose and D-fructose accumulation, appeared useful to distinguish the N-use-efficient genotypes. Furthermore, increased levels of L-aspartate and L-asparagine in the N-use-efficient genotypes at short-term low-N exposure were detected. Granule-bound starch synthase (WAXY) and endoglucanase (E3.2.1.4) downregulation at long-term N stress was observed. Therefore, genes and metabolites related to these pathways could be exploited to improve NUE in eggplant.
Use of Different Organic Carbon Sources in Cynara cardunculus Cells: Effects on Biomass Productivity and Secondary Metabolites
Authors: Oliviero Maria , Langellotti Antonio Luca , Russo Giovanni L. , Baselice Marco , Donadio Andrea , Ritieni Alberto , Graziani Giulia , Masi Paolo
Published: March 2022

Cynara cardunculus (Asteraceae family) is a perennial plant native to Mediterranean regions. This plant represents a source of high-value compounds, such as polyphenols and fatty acids that have several industrial applications. However, in vitro plant cell cultures can represent a valid alternative to in-field cultivation and facilitate the extraction of metabolites of commercial interest. Generally, sucrose is the main sugar used for plant cell cultures, but other carbon sources can be considered. Here, we investigated the potential use of alternative organic carbon sources, such as galactose, maltose, glucose, glycerol, fructose, lactose, and starch, for the cultivation of C. cardunculus cells. Moreover, cardoon cells were collected, and an extraction of polyphenols and oils was performed to study the effects of different carbon sources on the production of bioactive molecules. This study provided evidence that cardoon cell growth can be supported by carbon sources other than sucrose. However, the carbon source inducing optimum growth, did not necessarily induce the highest production of high-value compounds.
Phenotypic Acclimation of Maize Plants Grown under S Deprivation and Implications to Sulfur and Iron Allocation Dynamics
Authors: Maniou Filippa S. , Bouranis Dimitris L. , Ventouris Yannis E. , Chorianopoulou Styliani N.
Published: March 2022

The aim of this work was to study maize root phenotype under sulfur deficiency stress towards revealing potential correlations between the altered phenotypic traits and the corresponding dry mass, sulfur, and iron allocation within plants at the whole-plant level. The dynamics of root morphological and anatomical traits were monitored. These traits were then correlated with plant foliage traits along with dry mass and sulfur and iron allocation dynamics in the shoot versus root. Plants grown under sulfate deprivation did not seem to invest in new root axes. Crown roots presented anatomical differences in all parameters studied; e.g., more and larger xylem vessels in order to maximize water and nutrient transport in the xylem sap. In the root system of S-deficient plants, a reduced concentration of sulfur was observed, whilst organic sulfur predominated over sulfates. A reduction in total iron concentration was monitored, and differences in its subcellular localization were observed. As expected, S-deprivation negatively affected the total sulfur concentration in the aerial plant part, as well as greatly impacted iron allocation in the foliage. Phenotypic adaptation to sulfur deprivation in maize presented alterations mainly in the root anatomy; towards competent handling of the initial sulfur and the induced iron deficiencies.
Different Infectivity of Mediterranean and Southern Asian Tomato Leaf Curl New Delhi Virus Isolates in Cucurbit Crops
Authors: Vo Thuy T. B. , Lal Aamir , Ho Phuong T. , Troiano Elisa , Parrella Giuseppe , Kil Eui-Joon , Lee Sukchan
Published: March 2022

Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV) became an alerting virus in Europe from 2017 to 2020 because of its significant damage to Cucurbitaceae cultivation. Until now, just some cucurbit crops including sponge gourd, melon, pumpkin, and cucumber were reported to be resistant to ToLCNDV, but no commercial cultivars are available. In this study, a new isolate of ToLCNDV was identified in Pakistan and analyzed together with ToLCNDV-ES which was previously isolated in Italy. Furthermore, infectious clones of two ToLCNDV isolates were constructed and agroinoculated into different cucurbit crops to verify their infectivity. Results showed that both isolates exhibited severe infection on all tested cucurbit (>70%) except watermelon. Thus, those cultivars may be good candidates in the first step of screening genetic resources for resistance on both Southeast Asian and Mediterranean ToLCNDV isolates. Additional, comparison pathogenicity of different geographical ToLCNDV isolates will be aided to understand viral characterization as such knowledge could facilitate breeding resistance to this virus.
Investigation of Indoor and Outdoor Fine Particulate Matter Concentrations in Schools in Salt Lake City, Utah
Authors: Mendoza Daniel , Benney Tabitha , Bares Ryan , Fasoli Benjamin , Anderson Corbin , Gonzales Shawn , Crosman Erik , Hoch Sebastian
Published: March 2022

Although there is mounting evidence that suggests that air pollution is impactful to human health and educational outcomes, this is especially problematic in schools with higher air pollution levels. To understand whether all schools in an urban area are exposed to similar outdoor air quality and whether school infrastructure protects children equally indoors, we installed research-grade sensors to observe PM2.5 concentrations in indoor and outdoor settings to understand how unequal exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution impacts indoor air quality among high- and low-income schools in Salt Lake City, Utah. These data and resulting analysis show that poor air quality may impact school settings and the potential implications with respect to environmental inequality. Based on this approach, we found that during atmospheric inversions and dust events, there was a lag ranging between 35 and 73 min for the outdoor PM2.5 concentrations to follow a similar temporal pattern as the indoor PM2.5. This lag has policy and health implications and may help to explain rising concerns regarding reduced educational outcomes related to air pollution in urban areas.
Development and Evaluation of MCC-SiO2/CMC-SiO2 Conjugates as Tablet Super-Disintegrants
Authors: Sangnim Tanikan , Zandu Simran Kaur , Kaur Sukhanpreet , Odeku Oluwatoyin A. , Huanbutta Kampanart , Singh Inderbir
Published: March 2022

In the present study, microcrystallinecellulose–colloidal silicon dioxide (MCC-SiO2) and carboxymethylcellulose–colloidal silicon dioxide (CMC-SiO2) conjugates have been investigated as superdisintegrants in fast dissolving tablets (FDTs). MCC-SiO2 and CMC-SiO2 conjugates were prepared and micromeritic studies, FTIR, SEM and XRD methods were utilized for characterizing the powdered conjugates. The conjugates were used for the preparation of domperidone FDTs by direct compression and the wetting time, water absorption ratio, disintegration time and in vitro drug release were evaluated. Effective pore radius of MCC-SiO2 and CMC-SiO2 conjugates for 1:1, 1:2.5 and 1:5 was found to be 13.35 ± 0.31 µm, 15.66 ± 0.17 µm and 18.38 ± 0.44 µm, and 16.81 ± 0.24 µm, 20.12 ± 0.39 µm and 26.37 ± 0.24 µm, respectively, compared to 12.21 ± 0.23 µm for MCC and 13.65 ± 0.21 µm for CMC. The results of effective pore radius indicate the wicking capability as well as the disintegration potential of MCC-SiO2 and CMC-SiO2 conjugates over pure MCC and CMC. The results of wetting time, water absorption ratio and disintegration time for MCC-SiO2 conjugates were found to be in the range of 19 ± 1.21 to 30 ± 1.33 s, 42 ± 0.28 to 49 ± 0.47% and 15 ± 2 to 40 ± 1 s, and for CMC-SiO2 conjugates were found to be in the range of 21 ± 1.13 to 40 ± 1.17 s, 42 ± 0.94 to 49 ± 0.57% and 12 ± 2 to 20 ± 3 s, respectively. Conjugation of MCC and CMC with SiO2 led to the formation of a complex with remarkable tablet superdisintegrant potential that could be used in preparing fast disintegrating tablets.
Fabrication of Polymer/Graphene Biocomposites for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Meneses João , van de Kemp Tom , Costa-Almeida Raquel , Pereira Rúben , Magalhães Fernão D. , Castilho Miguel , Pinto Artur M.
Published: March 2022

Graphene-based materials (GBM) are considered one of the 21st century’s most promising materials, as they are incredibly light, strong, thin and have remarkable electrical and thermal properties. As a result, over the past decade, their combination with a diverse range of synthetic polymers has been explored in tissue engineering (TE) and regenerative medicine (RM). In addition, a wide range of methods for fabricating polymer/GBM scaffolds have been reported. This review provides an overview of the most recent advances in polymer/GBM composite development and fabrication, focusing on methods such as electrospinning and additive manufacturing (AM). As a future outlook, this work stresses the need for more in vivo studies to validate polymer/GBM composite scaffolds for TE applications, and gives insight on their fabrication by state-of-the-art processing technologies.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation on the Effect of Self-Resistance Electric Heating on Carbon Fiber Surface Chemical Properties and Fiber/PP Interfacial Behavior
Authors: He Qingzhu , Liu Jiaqing , Zhang Muhan , Zhai Zhanyu , Jiang Bingyan
Published: March 2022

Carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic (CFRT) composites have been dramatically employed in the automotive field on account of their superior performances, such as being light weight and high-strength. Self-resistance electric (SRE) heating provides a solution to the problem of high energy consumption in the conventional process of CFRT composites. The effect of SRE heating on the surface chemical properties of carbon fiber (CF) was investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). XPS analysis suggests that the C-O-C epoxy group, the CF surface, would be degraded after SRE heating with strong current intensity, while there are weak changes in the content of -C-OH, -C-O-C-, -C-NH2 and -COOH groups with current intensity. The interfacial bonding properties and the radial distribution function (RDF) of CF–PP interfaces were carried out by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The simulation results show that the adhesion between the PP and the E44 sizing agent is weaker than that between CF and PP. There are no interaction modes between the PP and E44 sizing agent except van der Waals and electrostatic adsorption. The presence of the E44 sizing agent does not change the bonding mechanism at the interface of CF/PP.
Solid State NMR a Powerful Technique for Investigating Sustainable/Renewable Cellulose-Based Materials
Authors: El Hariri El Nokab Mustapha , Habib Mohamed H. , Alassmy Yasser A. , Abduljawad Marwan M. , Alshamrani Khalid M. , Sebakhy Khaled O.
Published: March 2022

Solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) is a powerful and attractive characterization method for obtaining insights into the chemical structure and dynamics of a wide range of materials. Current interest in cellulose-based materials, as sustainable and renewable natural polymer products, requires deep investigation and analysis of the chemical structure, molecular packing, end chain motion, functional modification, and solvent–matrix interactions, which strongly dictate the final product properties and tailor their end applications. In comparison to other spectroscopic techniques, on an atomic level, ssNMR is considered more advanced, especially in the structural analysis of cellulose-based materials; however, due to a dearth in the availability of a broad range of pulse sequences, and time consuming experiments, its capabilities are underestimated. This critical review article presents the comprehensive and up-to-date work done using ssNMR, including the most advanced NMR strategies used to overcome and resolve the structural difficulties present in different types of cellulose-based materials.
Failure-Mode Shift of Metal/Composite L-Joint with Grooved Structure under Compressive Load
Authors: Kang Zhenhang , Liu Zhu , Lei Yongpeng , Zhang Jifeng
Published: March 2022

Bond length and bond interface morphology have a great influence on the performance of metal/composite hybrid joints. In this paper, a metal/composite L-joint with groove structure was designed, and seven groups with different bonding lengths were fabricated using the VARI (Vacuum Assisted Resin Infusion) process to study the effect of different bonding lengths on the performance of the joint. In the simulation analysis of the metal/composite L-joint, the stiffness equivalence method was adopted, and the groove structure was equivalent to a 0-thickness element layer. The applicability of the simulation method was verified by comparing the ultimate load, displacement and failure mode of the test and simulation. Furthermore, the simulation method was used to simulate more compression experiments of metal/composite L-joints with different bonding lengths, and prediction diagrams of failure displacement and failure mode were produced. According to the prediction map, when the bonding length is 100.00 mm, the metal/composite L-joint has better compressive properties.
Glutathione Immobilized Polycaprolactone Nanofiber Mesh as a Dermal Drug Delivery Mechanism for Wound Healing in a Diabetic Patient
Authors: Khandaker Morshed , Alkadhem Niyaf , Progri Helga , Nikfarjam Sadegh , Jeon Jiyoon , Kotturi Hari , Vaughan Melville B.
Published: March 2022

Glutathione (GSH) is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant biomolecule. Polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofiber mesh (NFM) is capable of the attachment and release of biomolecules for prolonged periods and has the potential as a transdermal drug delivery system during wound healing for a diabetic patient. Our earlier study found that high levels of sugar in diabetic male mice were significantly decreased by daily doses of glutathione administered on the mice. Furthermore, oxidative stress found in diabetic male mice led to the total depletion of glutathione levels in the body’s organs (pancreas, spleen, epididymis, and testis). The objective of this study was to attach GSH with PCL NFM for the controlled release of GSH biomolecules for long periods of time from the fiber mesh into a diabetic body. This study produced PCL NFM using an electrospun technique and tested it on mice to evaluate its efficiency as a dermal drug delivery mechanism. This study dissolved GSH (2.5 mg/mL) with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and glutaraldehyde (GLU) solution to create GSH-PBS and GSH-GLU complexes. Each complex was used to soak PCL NFM for 24 h and dried to create PCL-GSH-PBS and PCL-GSH-GLU meshes. Fiber morphology, degradation, fibroblast cell proliferation, cytotoxicity, and GSH release activities from each mesh were compared. Fibroblast cell adhesion and cytotoxicity tests found excellent biocompatibility of both GSH-immobilized PCL meshes and no degradation until 20 days of the study period. The disk diffusion method was conducted to test the antibacterial properties of the sample groups. Release tests confirmed that the attachment of GSH with PCL by GSH-GLU complex resulted in a steady release of GSH compared to the fast release of GSH from PCL-GSH-PBS mesh. The disk diffusion test confirmed that PCL-GSH-GLU has antibacterial properties. The above results conclude that GSH-GLU immobilized PCL NFM can be a suitable candidate for a transdermal anti-oxidative and anti-bacterial drug delivery system such as bandage, skin graft for wound healing application in a diabetic patient.
Heat Pump Drying of Kelp (Laminaria japonica): Drying Kinetics and Thermodynamic Properties
Authors: Zhang Qian , Li Shiyu , Zhang Minqi , Mu Gang , Li Xiuchen , Zhang Guochen , Xiong Shanbai
Published: March 2022

The main objective of this research is the study of the drying kinetics and thermodynamic properties of kelp using heat pump drying technology. The effects of the independent variables of temperature (20–50 °C), air velocity (0.3–1.3 m/s), humidity (20–50%), and thickness (0.8–4.2 mm) on the drying time, moisture uniformity, effective moisture diffusivity (Deff), activation energy (Ea), enthalpy (ΔH), entropy (ΔS), and Gibbs free energy (ΔG) were investigated. The results show that the Page model was effective in describing the moisture content change of kelp during heat pump drying. The Deff varied from 1.00 × 10−11 to 13.00 × 10−11 m2/s and the temperature, air velocity, humidity, and thickness had significant effects on drying time and moisture uniformity. Higher temperature and air velocity with proper humidity shortened the drying time and lessened the influence of thickness on moisture uniformity. The Ea (16.38–26.66 kJ/mol) and ΔH (13.69–24.22 kJ/mol) were significantly increased by thickness. When the temperature was 40 °C, air velocity 1.3 m/s, and air humidity 40%, the moisture content was reduced to 18% in 5 h, with a homogeneous moisture content. This study clarifies the regularity of moisture change inside kelp and provides a theoretical reference for the development of macroalgae drying technology.