bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compliance with Gluten Free Diet Is Associated with Better Quality of Life in Celiac Disease
Authors: Enaud Raphaël , Tetard Candice , Dupuis Raphaël , Laharie David , Lamireau Thierry , Zerbib Frank , Rivière Pauline , Shili-Mismoudi Sarah , Poullenot Florian
Published: March 2022

The quality of life (QOL) of patients with celiac disease (CD) can be altered by both symptoms of the disease and by the restrictions of the gluten-free diet (GFD). The objective was to determine the factors associated with better QOL in a large cohort of CD patients. A link to an online survey was sent to the members of the French Association of Gluten Intolerant People (AFDIAG). The French-Celiac Disease Questionnaire (F-CDQ), scoring from 0 to 100, was used to measure the QOL. Other data collected were sociodemographic characteristics, information on CD, purchasing and consumption habits of gluten-free products, and a self-assessment scale (ranging from 0 to 10) to determine the compliance with the GFD. Among the 907 CD patients who returned the questionnaire, 787 were analyzed (638 women (81%); median age: 49 years; 71% with self-assessed GFD compliance > 8). Their median F-CDQ was 73 (range: 59–82). In multivariate analysis, the main factors associated with a better quality of life were the long duration of the GFD, good compliance with the GFD, and the number of follow-up visits. Compliance with and duration of the GFD are associated with a better quality of life in patients with CD. Taking this into consideration would offset its restrictive aspect and improve its adherence.
A Systematic Review on Processed/Ultra-Processed Foods and Arterial Hypertension in Adults and Older People
Authors: Barbosa Suamy Sales , Sousa Layanne Cristini Martin , de Oliveira Silva David Franciole , Pimentel Jéssica Bastos , Evangelista Karine Cavalcanti Maurício de Sena , Lyra Clélia de Oliveira , Lopes Márcia Marília Gomes Dantas , Lima Severina Carla Vieira Cunha
Published: March 2022

The increase in the availability of processed and ultra-processed foods has altered the eating patterns of populations, and these foods constitute an exposure factor for the development of arterial hypertension. This systematic review analyzed evidence of the association between consumption of processed/ultra-processed foods and arterial hypertension in adults and older people. Electronic searches for relevant articles were performed in the PUBMED, EMBASE and LILACS databases. The review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. The search of the databases led to the retrieval of 2323 articles, eight of which were included in the review. A positive association was found between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and blood pressure/arterial hypertension, whereas insufficient evidence was found for the association between the consumption of processed foods and arterial hypertension. The results reveal the high consumption of ultra-processed foods in developed and middle-income countries, warning of the health risks of such foods, which have a high energy density and are rich in salt, sugar and fat. The findings underscore the urgent need for the adoption of measures that exert a positive impact on the quality of life of populations, especially those at greater risk, such as adults and older people.
Yellow Chaste Weed and Its Components, Apigenin and Galangin, Affect Proliferation and Oxidative Stress in Blue Light-Irradiated HaCaT Cells
Authors: Park Jung Yoen , Park See-Hyoung , Oh Sae Woong , Kwon Kitae , Yu Eunbi , Choi Seoyoung , Yang Seoyoun , Han Su Bin , Jung Kwangsun , Song Minkyung , Cho Jae Youl , Lee Jongsung
Published: March 2022

While harmful effects of blue light on skin cells have been recently reported, there are few studies regarding natural products that alleviate its negative effects. Therefore, we investigated ameliorating effects of yellow chaste weed (YCW) (Helichrysum arenarium) extract and its components, apigenin and galangin, on blue light-irradiated HaCaT cells. In this study, we found that YCW extract improved the reduced proliferation of HaCaT cells induced by blue light-irradiation and reduced blue light-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. We also found that apigenin and galangin, the main components of YCW extract, showed the same activities as YCW extract. In experiments examining molecular mechanisms of YCW extract and its components such as apigenin and galangin, they all reduced expression of transient receptor potential vanilloid member 1 (TRPV1), its phosphorylation, and calcium ion (Ca2+) influx induced by blue light irradiation. In addition, apigenin and galangin regulated phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). They also reduced phosphorylation of mammalian sterile 20-like kinase-1/2 (MST-1/2), inducing phosphorylation of Akt (protein kinase B), one downstream molecule of MST-1/2. Moreover, apigenin and galangin promoted translocation of Forkhead box O3 (FoxO3a) from the nucleus to the cytosol by phosphorylating FoxO3a. Besides, apigenin and galangin interrupted blue light influences on expression of nuclear and secretory clusterin. Namely, they attenuated both upregulation of nuclear clusterin and downregulation of secretory clusterin induced by blue light irradiation. We also found that they downregulated apoptotic protein Bcl-2 associated X protein (Bax) and conversely upregulated anti-apoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). Collectively, these findings indicate that YCW extract and its components, apigenin and galangin, antagonize the blue light-induced damage to the keratinocytes by regulating TRPV1/clusterin/FoxO3a and MAPK signaling.
Estimating the Direct Effect between Dietary Macronutrients and Cardiometabolic Disease, Accounting for Mediation by Adiposity and Physical Activity
Authors: Pomares-Millan Hugo , Atabaki-Pasdar Naeimeh , Coral Daniel , Johansson Ingegerd , Giordano Giuseppe N. , Franks Paul W.
Published: March 2022

Assessing the causal effects of individual dietary macronutrients and cardiometabolic disease is challenging because distinguish direct effects from those mediated or confounded by other factors is difficult. To estimate these effects, intake of protein, carbohydrate, sugar, fat, and its subtypes were obtained using food frequency data derived from a Swedish population-based cohort (n~60,000). Data on clinical outcomes (i.e., type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence) were obtained by linking health registry data. We assessed the magnitude of direct and mediated effects of diet, adiposity and physical activity on T2D and CVD using structural equation modelling (SEM). To strengthen causal inference, we used Mendelian randomization (MR) to model macronutrient intake exposures against clinical outcomes. We identified likely causal effects of genetically predicted carbohydrate intake (including sugar intake) and T2D, independent of adiposity and physical activity. Pairwise, serial- and parallel-mediational configurations yielded similar results. In the integrative genomic analyses, the candidate causal variant localized to the established T2D gene TCF7L2. These findings may be informative when considering which dietary modifications included in nutritional guidelines are most likely to elicit health-promoting effects.
Biofilm through the Looking Glass: A Microbial Food Safety Perspective
Authors: Chitlapilly Dass Sapna , Wang Rong
Published: March 2022

Food-processing facilities harbor a wide diversity of microorganisms that persist and interact in multispecies biofilms, which could provide an ecological niche for pathogens to better colonize and gain tolerance against sanitization. Biofilm formation by foodborne pathogens is a serious threat to food safety and public health. Biofilms are formed in an environment through synergistic interactions within the microbial community through mutual adaptive response to their long-term coexistence. Mixed-species biofilms are more tolerant to sanitizers than single-species biofilms or their planktonic equivalents. Hence, there is a need to explore how multispecies biofilms help in protecting the foodborne pathogen from common sanitizers and disseminate biofilm cells from hotspots and contaminate food products. This knowledge will help in designing microbial interventions to mitigate foodborne pathogens in the processing environment. As the global need for safe, high-quality, and nutritious food increases, it is vital to study foodborne pathogen behavior and engineer new interventions that safeguard food from contamination with pathogens. This review focuses on the potential food safety issues associated with biofilms in the food-processing environment.
18F-FDG-PET/MR in Alveolar Echinococcosis: Multiparametric Imaging in a Real-World Setting
Authors: Eberhardt Nina , Peters Lynn , Kapp-Schwoerer Silke , Beer Meinrad , Beer Ambros J. , Grüner Beate , Thaiss Wolfgang M.
Published: March 2022

Recent improvements in alveolar echinococcosis (AE) therapy can provide long-term disease control, and even allow structured treatment interruption in selected cases. Imaging has a pivotal role in monitoring disease activity, with 18-fluoro-deoxyglucose positron emission and computed tomography (18F-FDG-PET/CT) in particular having proven beneficial for assessing disease activity. Repetitive regular examinations to monitor therapy response, however, can lead to substantial radiation burden. Therefore, by combining metabolic information and excellent tissue contrast in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), PET/MR appears ideally suited for this task. Here, we retrospectively analyzed 51 AE patients that underwent 18F-FDG-PET/MR. Patients had a ‘confirmed/probable’ diagnosis in 22/29 cases according to the WHO classification. FDG uptake, diffusion restriction, and MRI morphology were evaluated. We found significant differences in FDG uptake between responders to benzimidazole therapy and progressive manifestations (SUVavg 2.7 ± 1.3 vs. 5.4 ± 2.2, p < 0.001) as well as between Kodama Types 1 and 3 (F = 9.9, p < 0.003). No significant differences were detected for ADC values or MRI morphology concerning response and no correlations were present between FDG uptake and ADC values. The mean radiation dose was 5.9–6.5 mSv. We conclude that the combination of metabolic information and MRI morphology at a low radiation dose proposes PET/MR as a suitable imaging modality for AE assessment. Longitudinal studies are needed to define the role of this imaging modality.
Sodium or Not Sodium: Should Its Presence Affect the Accuracy of Pose Prediction in Docking GPCR Antagonists?
Authors: Bassani Davide , Pavan Matteo , Sturlese Mattia , Moro Stefano
Published: March 2022

The function of the allosteric sodium ion in stabilizing the inactive form of GPCRs has been extensively described in the past decades. Its presence has been reported to be essential for the binding of antagonist molecules in the orthosteric site of these very important therapeutical targets. Among the GPCR–antagonist crystal structures available, in most cases, the sodium ion could not be experimentally resolved, obliging computational scientists using GPCRs as targets for virtual screening to ask: “Should the sodium ion affect the accuracy of pose prediction in docking GPCR antagonists?” In the present study, we examined the performance of three orthogonal docking programs in the self-docking of GPCR antagonists to try to answer this question. The results of the present work highlight that if the sodium ion is resolved in the crystal structure used as the target, it should also be taken into account during the docking calculations. If the crystallographic studies were not able to resolve the sodium ion then no advantage would be obtained if this is manually inserted in the virtual target. The outcomes of the present analysis are useful for researchers exploiting molecular docking-based virtual screening to efficiently identify novel GPCR antagonists.
Effects of Injection Volume and Route of Administration on Dolutegravir In Situ Forming Implant Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Joiner Jordan B. , King Jasmine L. , Shrivastava Roopali , Howard Sarah Anne , Cottrell Mackenzie L. , Kashuba Angela D. M. , Dayton Paul A. , Benhabbour Soumya Rahima
Published: March 2022

Due to the versatility of the in situ forming implant (ISFI) drug delivery system, it is crucial to understand the effects of formulation parameters for clinical translation. We utilized ultrasound imaging and pharmacokinetics (PK) in mice to understand the impact of administration route, injection volume, and drug loading on ISFI formation, degradation, and drug release in mice. Placebo ISFIs injected subcutaneously (SQ) with smaller volumes (40 μL) exhibited complete degradation within 30–45 days, compared to larger volumes (80 μL), which completely degraded within 45–60 days. However, all dolutegravir (DTG)-loaded ISFIs along the range of injection volumes tested (20–80 μL) were present at 90 days post-injection, suggesting that DTG can prolong ISFI degradation. Ultrasound imaging showed that intramuscular (IM) ISFIs flattened rapidly post administration compared to SQ, which coincides with the earlier Tmax for drug-loaded IM ISFIs. All mice exhibited DTG plasma concentrations above four times the protein-adjusted 90% inhibitory concentration (PA-IC90) throughout the entire 90 days of the study. ISFI release kinetics best fit to zero order or diffusion-controlled models. When total administered dose was held constant, there was no statistical difference in drug exposure regardless of the route of administration or number of injections.
Microemulsion Delivery System Improves Cellular Uptake of Genipin and Its Protective Effect against Aβ1-42-Induced PC12 Cell Cytotoxicity
Authors: Zheng Yujie , Xu Guangzhi , Ni Qinxue , Wang Yan , Gao Qianxin , Zhang Youzuo
Published: March 2022

Genipin has attracted much attention for its hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotection activities. However, poor water solubility and active chemical properties limit its application in food and pharmaceutical industries. This article aimed to develop a lipid-based microemulsion delivery system to improve the stability and bioavailability of genipin. The excipients for a genipin microemulsion (GME) preparation were screened and a pseudo-ternary phase diagram was established. The droplet size (DS), zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI), physical and simulated gastrointestinal digestion stability, and in vitro drug release properties were characterized. Finally, the effect of the microemulsion on its cellular uptake by Caco-2 cells and the protective effect on PC12 cells were investigated. The prepared GME had a transparent appearance with a DS of 16.17 ± 0.27 nm, ZP of −8.11 ± 0.77 mV, and PDI of 0.183 ± 0.013. It exhibited good temperature, pH, ionic strength, and simulated gastrointestinal digestion stability. The in vitro release and cellular uptake data showed that the GME had a lower release rate and better bioavailability compared with that of free genipin. Interestingly, the GME showed a significantly better protective effect against amyloid-β (Aβ1-42)-induced PC12 cell cytotoxicity than that of the unencapsulated genipin. These findings suggest that the lipid-based microemulsion delivery system could serve as a promising approach to improve the application of genipin.
Clinical Pharmacokinetic Assessment of Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa), a Botanical Product with Opioid-like Effects, in Healthy Adult Participants
Authors: Tanna Rakshit S. , Nguyen James T. , Hadi Deena L. , Manwill Preston K. , Flores-Bocanegra Laura , Layton Matthew E. , White John R. , Cech Nadja B. , Oberlies Nicholas H. , Rettie Allan E. , Thummel Kenneth E. , Paine Mary F.
Published: March 2022

Increasing use of the botanical kratom to self-manage opioid withdrawal and pain has led to increased kratom-linked overdose deaths. Despite these serious safety concerns, rigorous fundamental pharmacokinetic knowledge of kratom in humans remains lacking. We assessed the pharmacokinetics of a single low dose (2 g) of a well-characterized kratom product administered orally to six healthy participants. Median concentration-time profiles for the kratom alkaloids examined were best described by a two-compartment model with central elimination. Pronounced pharmacokinetic differences between alkaloids with the 3S configuration (mitragynine, speciogynine, paynantheine) and alkaloids with the 3R configuration (mitraciliatine, speciociliatine, isopaynantheine) were attributed to differences in apparent intercompartmental distribution clearance, volumes of distribution, and clearance. Based on noncompartmental analysis of individual concentration-time profiles, the 3S alkaloids exhibited a shorter median time to maximum concentration (1–2 vs. 2.5–4.5 h), lower area under the plasma concentration-time curve (430–490 vs. 794–5120 nM × h), longer terminal half-life (24–45 vs. ~12–18 h), and higher apparent volume of distribution during the terminal phase (960–12,700 vs. ~46–130 L) compared to the 3R alkaloids. Follow-up mechanistic in vitro studies suggested differential hepatic/intestinal metabolism, plasma protein binding, blood-to-plasma partitioning, and/or distribution coefficients may explain the pharmacokinetic differences between the two alkaloid types. This first comprehensive pharmacokinetic characterization of kratom alkaloids in humans provides the foundation for further research to establish safety and effectiveness of this emerging botanical product.
A Single Short ‘Tone Burst’ Results in Optimal Drug Delivery to Tumours Using Ultrasound-Triggered Therapeutic Microbubbles
Authors: Ingram Nicola , McVeigh Laura E. , Abou-Saleh Radwa H. , Batchelor Damien V. B. , Loadman Paul M. , McLaughlan James R. , Markham Alexander F. , Evans Stephen D. , Coletta P. Louise
Published: March 2022

Advanced drug delivery systems, such as ultrasound-mediated drug delivery, show great promise for increasing the therapeutic index. Improvements in delivery by altering the ultrasound parameters have been studied heavily in vitro but relatively little in vivo. Here, the same therapeutic microbubble and tumour type are used to determine whether altering ultrasound parameters can improve drug delivery. Liposomes were loaded with SN38 and attached via avidin: biotin linkages to microbubbles. The whole structure was targeted to the tumour vasculature by the addition of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 antibodies. Tumour drug delivery and metabolism were quantified in SW480 xenografts after application of an ultrasound trigger to the tumour region. Increasing the trigger duration from 5 s to 2 min or increasing the number of 5 s triggers did not improve drug delivery, nor did changing to a chirp trigger designed to stimulate a greater proportion of the microbubble population, although this did show that the short tone trigger resulted in greater release of free SN38. Examination of ultrasound triggers in vivo to improve drug delivery is justified as there are multiple mechanisms at play that may not allow direct translation from in vitro findings. In this setting, a short tone burst gives the best ultrasound parameters for tumoural drug delivery.
Acute Inflammation Is a Predisposing Factor for Weight Gain and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Mendes de Oliveira Edson , Silva Jacqueline C. , Ascar Thais P. , Sandri Silvana , Marchi Alexandre F. , Migliorini Silene , Nakaya Helder T. I. , Fock Ricardo A. , Campa Ana
Published: March 2022

In the course of infection and intense endotoxemia processes, induction of a catabolic state leading to weight loss is observed in mice and humans. However, the late effects of acute inflammation on energy homeostasis, regulation of body weight and glucose metabolism are yet to be elucidated. Here, we addressed whether serial intense endotoxemia, characterized by an acute phase response and weight loss, could be an aggravating or predisposing factor to weight gain and associated metabolic complications. Male Swiss Webster mice were submitted to 8 consecutive doses of lipopolysaccharide (10 mg/kg LPS), followed by 10 weeks on a high-fat diet (HFD). LPS-treated mice did not show changes in weight when fed standard chow. However, when challenged by a high-fat diet, LPS-treated mice showed greater weight gain, with larger fat depot areas, increased serum leptin and insulin levels and impaired insulin sensitivity when compared to mice on HFD only. Acute endotoxemia caused a long-lasting increase in mRNA expression of inflammatory markers such as TLR-4, CD14 and serum amyloid A (SAA) in the adipose tissue, which may represent the key factors connecting inflammation to increased susceptibility to weight gain and impaired glucose homeostasis. In an independent experimental model, and using publicly available microarray data from adipose tissue from mice infected with Gram-negative bacteria, we performed gene set enrichment analysis and confirmed upregulation of a set of genes responsible for cell proliferation and inflammation, including TLR-4 and SAA. Together, we showed that conditions leading to intense and recurring endotoxemia, such as common childhood bacterial infections, may resound for a long time and aggravate the effects of a western diet. If confirmed in humans, infections should be considered an additional factor contributing to obesity and type 2 diabetes epidemics.
Selective Photo-Assisted Eradication of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells through Aptamer Decoration of Doped Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles
Authors: Ibarra Luis Exequiel , Camorani Simona , Agnello Lisa , Pedone Emilia , Pirone Luciano , Chesta Carlos Alberto , Palacios Rodrigo Emiliano , Fedele Monica , Cerchia Laura
Published: March 2022

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) may be an excellent alternative in the treatment of breast cancer, mainly for the most aggressive type with limited targeted therapies such as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We recently generated conjugated polymer nanoparticles (CPNs) as efficient photosensitizers for the photo-eradication of different cancer cells. With the aim of improving the selectivity of PDT with CPNs, the nanoparticle surface conjugation with unique 2’-Fluoropyrimidines-RNA-aptamers that act as effective recognition elements for functional surface signatures of TNBC cells was proposed and designed. A coupling reaction with carbodiimide was used to covalently bind NH2-modified aptamers with CPNs synthetized with two polystyrene-based polymer donors of COOH groups for the amide reaction. The selectivity of recognition for TNBC membrane receptors and PDT efficacy were assayed in TNBC cells and compared with non-TNBC cells by flow cytometry and cell viability assays. Furthermore, in vitro PDT efficacy was assayed in different TNBC cells with significant improvement results using CL4, sTN29 and sTN58 aptamers compared to unconjugated CPNs and SCR non-specific aptamer. In a chemoresistance TNBC cell model, sTN58 was the candidate for improving labelling and PDT efficacy with CPNs. We proposed sTN58, sTN29 and CL4 aptamers as valuable tools for selective TNBC targeting, cell internalization and therapeutic improvements for CPNs in PDT protocols.
Development and Validation of the New Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for the Determination of Unbound Tacrolimus in the Plasma Ultrafiltrate of Transplant Recipients
Authors: Bodnar-Broniarczyk Magdalena , Warzyszyńska Karola , Czerwińska Katarzyna , Marszałek Dorota , Dziewa Natalia , Kosieradzki Maciej , Pawiński Tomasz
Published: March 2022

(1) Background: Only unbound tacrolimus particles are considered to be active and capable of crossing cellular membranes. Thus, the free-drug concentration might be better associated with clinical effects than the total drug concentration used for dosage adjustment. We propose a new, fully validated online liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for unbound tacrolimus concentration measurement. (2) Methods: The determination of the unbound tacrolimus concentration in plasma ultrafiltrate was performed with the Nexera LC system with LCMS-8050 triple quadrupole MS using ascomycin as an internal standard. Chromatographic separation was made using a HypurityC18 analytical column. MS/MS with electrospray ionization and positive-ion multiple-reaction monitoring was used. The unbound tacrolimus level was determined in 36 patients after solid organ transplantation (n = 140). (3) Results: A lower limit of quantification 0.1 pg/mL was achieved, and the assay was linear between 0.1 and 20 pg/mL (R2 = 0.991). No carry-over was detected. The within-run and between-run accuracies ranged between 97.8–109.7% and 98.3–107.1%, while the greatest imprecision was 10.6% and 10.7%, respectively. Free tacrolimus in patients’ plasma ultrafiltrate varied between 0.06 and 18.25 pg/mL (median: 0.98 pg/mL). (4) Conclusions: The proposed method can be easily implemented. The significance of the unbound tacrolimus concentration needs to be investigated. This may facilitate the individualization and optimization of immunosuppressive treatment.
Segmentation and Quantitative Analysis of Photoacoustic Imaging: A Review
Authors: Le Thanh Dat , Kwon Seong-Young , Lee Changho
Published: March 2022

Photoacoustic imaging is an emerging biomedical imaging technique that combines optical contrast and ultrasound resolution to create unprecedented light absorption contrast in deep tissue. Thanks to its fusional imaging advantages, photoacoustic imaging can provide multiple structural and functional insights into biological tissues such as blood vasculatures and tumors and monitor the kinetic movements of hemoglobin and lipids. To better visualize and analyze the regions of interest, segmentation and quantitative analyses were used to extract several biological factors, such as the intensity level changes, diameter, and tortuosity of the tissues. Over the past 10 years, classical segmentation methods and advances in deep learning approaches have been utilized in research investigations. In this review, we provide a comprehensive review of segmentation and quantitative methods that have been developed to process photoacoustic imaging in preclinical and clinical experiments. We focus on the parametric reliability of quantitative analysis for semantic and instance-level segmentation. We also introduce the similarities and alternatives of deep learning models in qualitative measurements using classical segmentation methods for photoacoustic imaging.
Design and Performance of a Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Measurement System for In-Field Alfalfa Moisture Measurement
Authors: Gibertoni Giovanni , Lenzini Nicola , Ferrari Luca , Rovati Luigi
Published: March 2022

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is widely used in fruit and vegetable quality evaluations, usually after harvesting. In particular, the moisture content is a key parameter for determining product quality; processing phase, e.g., drying process; and economical value. NIRS methods are well-established for laboratory practices where the specimens are properly prepared and measurement conditions are well controlled. On the other hand, it is known that in-field NIRS measurements present several difficulties, as many influencing variables, such as mechanical vibrations, electrical and optical disturbances, and dust or dirt in general, can affect the spectral measurement. In this paper, we propose the design and present the prototype of a NIRS-based measuring system for the rapid determination of the moisture content of bales. The new system uses of a halogen lamp illumination unit to recover water absorption spectral data in the range of 900–1700 nm. The compact stainless steel body makes the instrument portable and easy to transport for rapid in-field MC measurements. The prototype system was characterized and its performance extensively evaluated in a laboratory environment. Finally, a preliminary test was carried out, where the moisture contents of 12 freshly harvested crops samples were measured using the partial least squares (PLSs) regression method. The obtained results show that our prototype system can estimate the alfalfa moisture content information with a coefficient of determination R2 of 0.985 and a root mean square relative error of estimation of 7.1%.
Wide-Angle Absorption Based on Angle-Insensitive Light Slowing Effect in Photonic Crystal Containing Hyperbolic Metamaterials
Authors: Wu Feng , Li Xiaoqing , Fan Xiufeng , Lin Ling , Taya Sofyan A. , Panda Abinash
Published: March 2022

Light-slowing effect at band edges in photonic crystals (PCs) is widely utilized to enhance optical absorption. However, according to the Bragg scattering theory, photonic bandgaps (PBGs) in traditional all-dielectric one-dimensional (1-D) PCs shift towards shorter wavelengths as the incident angle increases. Therefore, light-slowing effect in traditional all-dielectric 1-D PCs is also angle-sensitive. Such angle-sensitive property of light-slowing effect in traditional all-dielectric 1-D PCs poses a great challenge to achieve wide-angle absorption. In this paper, we design an angle-insensitive PBG in a 1-D PC containing hyperbolic metamaterials based on the phase-variation compensation theory. Assisted by the angle-insensitive light-slowing effect at the angle-insensitive band edge, we achieve wide-angle absorption at near-infrared wavelengths. The absorptance keeps higher than 0.9 in a wide angle range from 0 to 45.5 degrees. Besides, the wide-angle absorption is robust when the phase-variation compensation condition is slightly broken. Our work not only provides a viable route to realize angle-insensitive light slowing and wide-angle light absorption, but also promotes the development of light-slowing- and absorption-based optical/optoelectronic devices.
GXP: Analyze and Plot Plant Omics Data in Web Browsers
Authors: Eiteneuer Constantin , Velasco David , Atemia Joseph , Wang Dan , Schwacke Rainer , Wahl Vanessa , Schrader Andrea , Reimer Julia J. , Fahrner Sven , Pieruschka Roland , Schurr Ulrich , Usadel Björn , Hallab Asis
Published: March 2022

Next-generation sequencing and metabolomics have become very cost and work efficient and are integrated into an ever-growing number of life science research projects. Typically, established software pipelines analyze raw data and produce quantitative data informing about gene expression or concentrations of metabolites. These results need to be visualized and further analyzed in order to support scientific hypothesis building and identification of underlying biological patterns. Some of these tools already exist, but require installation or manual programming. We developed “Gene Expression Plotter” (GXP), an RNAseq and Metabolomics data visualization and analysis tool entirely running in the user’s web browser, thus not needing any custom installation, manual programming or uploading of confidential data to third party servers. Consequently, upon receiving the bioinformatic raw data analysis of RNAseq or other omics results, GXP immediately enables the user to interact with the data according to biological questions by performing knowledge-driven, in-depth data analyses and candidate identification via visualization and data exploration. Thereby, GXP can support and accelerate complex interdisciplinary omics projects and downstream analyses. GXP offers an easy way to publish data, plots, and analysis results either as a simple exported file or as a custom website. GXP is freely available on GitHub (see introduction)
Botanic Garden as a Factory of Molecules: Myrtus communis L. subsp. communis as a Case Study
Authors: Giuliani Claudia , Bottoni Martina , Milani Fabrizia , Todero Sefora , Berera Patrizia , Maggi Filippo , Santagostini Laura , Fico Gelsomina
Published: March 2022

A novel perception of botanic gardens as complex “factories of molecules” (Lombardy Region Project–Lr. 25/2016, year 2021), that mediate plant–environment interactions, and are the basis of their utility for humans, is presented. The core-topic is the medicinal plant heritage of the Ghirardi Botanic Garden (Toscolano Maderno, Brescia, Italy) of the University of Milan. In this work, we studied Myrtus communis L. subsp. communis (Myrtaceae) at multiple scale levels: macro- and micromorphological, with special emphasis on the secretory structures responsible for the production of secondary metabolites; phytochemical, with the analysis of the essential oil (EO) composition from leaves (fresh, dried, stored at −20 °C and at −80 °C) and fruits over two consecutive years (2018 and 2019); bio-ecological, with a focus, based on literature data, on the ecology and biological activity of the main EO components. The occurrence of secretory cavities producing terpenes, along with flavonoids, was proven. A high level of chemical variability across the obtained EO profiles emerged, especially that concerning quantitative data. However, regardless of the different conservation procedures, the examined plant part, or the phenological stage, we detected the presence of three ubiquitous compounds: α-pinene, 1,8-cineole, and linalool. The overall results will serve to enrich the Ghirardi Botanic Garden with novel labeling showing accurate and updated scientific information in an Open science perspective.
Biological Traits and Genetic Relationships Amongst Cultivars of Three Species of Tagetes (Asteraceae)
Authors: Cicevan Raluca , Sestras Adriana F. , Plazas Mariola , Boscaiu Monica , Vilanova Santiago , Gramazio Pietro , Vicente Oscar , Prohens Jaime , Sestras Radu E.
Published: March 2022

Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are multifunctional flowering plants belonging to the Asteraceae family, well-known and widespread for their ornamental value and many other uses. In this study, morphological differences and genetic relationships among 21 cultivars of three species of marigold (Tagetes patula, T. erecta and T. tenuifolia) were analysed. Results have revealed obvious differences among genotypes, starting from the morphological characteristics of the seeds and their capacity to germinate to adult plant morphological characteristics, both between cultivars and species. The genotypic differences were manifested in considerable variation in the development of phenological stages and the main morphological traits of plants and flowers. PCA and hierarchical clustering analyses of morphological traits revealed a homogeneous grouping of cultivars within each species, except for Orion, belonging to T. patula, which was closer to T. erecta cultivars. A subset of 13 cultivars from the three species was subjected to SSR analysis, revealing considerable genetic diversity and good separation between T. patula on the one side and T. erecta and T. tenuifolia on the other. The observed heterozygosity was much lower than the expected heterozygosity, revealing a high degree of fixation. The results reveal that the three species evaluated have considerable morphological and genetic diversity, which has important implications for assessing genetic diversity, conserving germplasm and selecting parents for new breeding works in marigolds.
Ultraviolet-B Irradiation Increases Antioxidant Capacity of Pakchoi (Brassica rapa L.) by Inducing Flavonoid Biosynthesis
Authors: Hao Juan , Lou Panpan , Han Yidie , Zheng Lijun , Lu Jiangjie , Chen Zhehao , Ni Jun , Yang Yanjun , Xu Maojun
Published: March 2022

As an important abiotic stress factor, ultraviolet-B (UV-B) light can stimulate the accumulation of antioxidants in plants. In this study, the possibility of enhancing antioxidant capacity in pakchoi (Brassica rapa L.) by UV-B supplementation was assessed. Irradiation with 4 µmol·m−2·s−1 UV-B for 4 h or 2 µmol·m−2·s−1 UV-B for 24 h significantly increased the 1,1–diphenyl–2–picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity and total reductive capacity, as a result of inducing a greater accumulation of total polyphenols and flavonoids without affecting the plant biomass. A high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis showed that the concentrations of many flavonoids significantly increased in response to UV-B treatment. The activities of three enzymes involved in the early steps of flavonoid biosynthesis, namely phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), cinnamate-4-hydroxylase (C4H), and 4-coumarate: coenzyme A (CoA) ligase (4CL), were significantly increased after the corresponding UV-B treatment. Compared with the control, the expression levels of several flavonoid biosynthesis genes (namely BrPAL, BrC4H, Br4CL, BrCHS, BrF3H, BrF3′H, BrFLS, BrDFR, BrANS, and BrLDOX) were also significantly up–regulated in the UV-B treatment group. The results suggest that appropriate preharvest UV-B supplementation could improve the nutritional quality of greenhouse-grown pakchoi by promoting the accumulation of antioxidants.
Structural Characterization of Withanolide Glycosides from the Roots of Withania somnifera and Their Potential Biological Activities
Authors: Ha Ji Won , Yu Jae Sik , Lee Bum Soo , Kang Dong-Min , Ahn Mi-Jeong , Kim Jung Kyu , Kim Ki Hyun
Published: March 2022

Withania somnifera (Solanaceae), commonly known as “ashwagandha”, is an ayurvedic medicinal plant that has been used for promoting good health and longevity. As part of our ongoing natural product research for the discovery of bioactive phytochemicals with novel structures, we conducted a phytochemical analysis of W. somnifera root, commonly used as an herbal medicine part. The phytochemical investigation aided by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS)-based analysis led to the isolation of four withanolide glycosides (1–4), including one new compound, withanoside XII (1), from the methanol (MeOH) extract of W. somnifera root. The structure of the new compound was determined by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic data, high-resolution (HR) electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectroscopy (MS), and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data as well as enzymatic hydrolysis followed by LC/MS analysis. In addition, enzymatic hydrolysis of 1 afforded an aglycone (1a) of 1, which was identified as a new compound, withanoside XIIa (1a), by the interpretation of NMR spectroscopic data, HR-ESIMS, and ECD data. To the best of our knowledge, the structure of compound 2 (withagenin A diglucoside) was previously proposed by HRMS and MS/MS spectral data, without NMR experiment, and the physical and spectroscopic data of withagenin A diglucoside (2) are reported in this study for the first time. All the isolated compounds were evaluated for their anti-Helicobacter pylori, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. In the anti-Helicobacter pylori activity assay, compound 2 showed weak anti-H. pylori activity with 7.8% inhibition. All the isolated compounds showed significant ABTS radical scavenging activity. However, all isolates failed to show inhibitory activity against nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. This study demonstrated the experimental support that the W. somnifera root is rich in withanolides, and it can be a valuable natural resource for bioactive withanolides.
Fluorescent Polymers Conspectus
Authors: Ahumada Guillermo , Borkowska Magdalena
Published: March 2022

The development of luminescent materials is critical to humankind. The Nobel Prizes awarded in 2008 and 2010 for research on the development of green fluorescent proteins and super-resolved fluorescence imaging are proof of this (2014). Fluorescent probes, smart polymer machines, fluorescent chemosensors, fluorescence molecular thermometers, fluorescent imaging, drug delivery carriers, and other applications make fluorescent polymers (FPs) exciting materials. Two major branches can be distinguished in the field: (1) macromolecules with fluorophores in their structure and (2) aggregation-induced emission (AIE) FPs. In the first, the polymer (which may be conjugated) contains a fluorophore, conferring photoluminescent properties to the final material, offering tunable structures, robust mechanical properties, and low detection limits in sensing applications when compared to small-molecule or inorganic luminescent materials. In the latter, AIE FPs use a novel mode of fluorescence dependent on the aggregation state. AIE FP intra- and intermolecular interactions confer synergistic effects, improving their properties and performance over small molecules aggregation-induced, emission-based fluorescent materials (AIEgens). Despite their outstanding advantages (over classic polymers) of high emission efficiency, signal amplification, good processability, and multiple functionalization, AIE polymers have received less attention. This review examines some of the most significant advances in the broad field of FPs over the last six years, concluding with a general outlook and discussion of future challenges to promote advancements in these promising materials that can serve as a springboard for future innovation in the field.
The Structural Characteristics of an Acidic Water-Soluble Polysaccharide from Bupleurum chinense DC and Its In Vivo Anti-Tumor Activity on H22 Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Shi Shuyuan , Chang Mengli , Liu Huiping , Ding Suyun , Yan Zhiqian , Si Kai , Gong Tingting
Published: March 2022

This study explored the preliminary structural characteristics and in vivo anti-tumor activity of an acidic water-soluble polysaccharide (BCP) separated purified from Bupleurum chinense DC root. The preliminary structural characterization of BCP was established using UV, HPGPC, FT-IR, IC, NMR, SEM, and Congo red. The results showed BCP as an acidic polysaccharide with an average molecular weight of 2.01 × 103 kDa. Furthermore, we showed that BCP consists of rhamnose, arabinose, galactose, glucose, and galacturonic acid (with a molar ratio of 0.063:0.788:0.841:1:0.196) in both α- and β-type configurations. Using the H22 tumor-bearing mouse model, we assessed the anti-tumor activity of BCP in vivo. The results revealed the inhibitory effects of BCP on H22 tumor growth and the protective actions against tissue damage of thymus and spleen in mice. In addition, the JC-1 FITC-AnnexinV/PI staining and cell cycle analysis have collectively shown that BCP is sufficient to induce apoptosis and of H22 hepatocarcinoma cells in a dose-dependent manner. The inhibitory effect of BCP on tumor growth was likely attributable to the S phase arrest. Overall, our study presented significant anti-liver cancer profiles of BCP and its promising therapeutic potential as a safe and effective anti-tumor natural agent.
Model-Based Dielectric Constant Estimation of Polymeric Nanocomposite
Authors: Shao Jiang , Zhou Le , Chen Yuqi , Liu Xue , Ji Mingbo
Published: March 2022

The interphase region widely exists in polymer-based nanocomposites, which affects the dielectric properties of the nanocomposites. General models, such as the Knott model, are often used to predict the dielectric constant of nanocomposites, while the model does not take the existence of interphase into account, which leads to a large deviation between the predicted results and the experimental values. In this study, a developed Knott model is proposed by introducing the interphase region and appropriately assuming the properties of the interphase. The modeling results based on the developed model are in good agreement with the experimental data, which verifies the high accuracy of the development model. The influence of nanoparticle loading on the effective volume fraction is further studied. In addition, the effects of the polymer matrix, nanoparticles, interphase dielectric and thickness, nanoparticle size and volume fraction on the dielectric properties of the nanocomposites are also investigated. The results show that polymer matrix or nanoparticles with a high dielectric and thick interphase can effectively improve the dielectric properties of the materials. Small size nanoparticles with high concentrations are more conducive to improving the dielectric properties of the nanocomposites. This study demonstrates that the interphase properties have an important impact on the dielectric properties of nanocomposites, and the developed model is helpful to accurately predict the dielectric constant of polymer-based nanocomposites.
Starch/Polyaniline Biopolymer Film as Potential Intelligent Food Packaging with Colourimetric Ammonia Sensor
Authors: Chia Min-Rui , Ahmad Ishak , Phang Sook-Wai
Published: March 2022

The use of petroleum-based plastics in food packaging leads to various environmental impacts, while spoilage of food and misinterpretation of food-date labelling account for food insecurity; therefore, a biopolymer capable of indicating food edibility is prepared to resolve these issues. In this research, starch/polyaniline (starch/PANI) biopolymer film was synthesised and investigated as an ammonia sensor for potential application as intelligent food packaging. FT-IR and XRD were used to confirm the composition of the biopolymer films, while UV-Vis spectrometry was applied to identify the oxidation state of PANI in emeraldine form. PANI was successfully incorporated into the starch matrix, leading to better thermal stability (TGA) but decreasing the crystallinity of the matrix (DSC). The performance of the polymer-film sensor was determined through ammonia-vapour sensitivity analysis. An obvious colour change from green to blue of starch/PANI films was observed upon exposure to the ammonia vapour. Starch/PANI 0.4% is the optimum composition, having the best sensor performance with good linearity (R2 = 0.9459) and precision (RSD = 8.72%), and exhibiting excellent LOD (245 ppm). Furthermore, the starch/PANI films are only selective to ammonia. Therefore, the starch/PANI films can be potentially applied as colourimetric ammonia sensors for intelligent food packaging.
Linearization of Composite Material Damage Model Results and Its Impact on the Subsequent Stress–Strain Analysis
Authors: Vlach Jarmil , Doubrava Radek , Růžek Roman , Raška Jan , Horňas Jan , Kadlec Martin
Published: March 2022

To solve problems in the field of mechanical engineering efficiently, individual numerical procedures must be developed, and solvers must be adapted. This study applies the results of a carbon-fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) analysis along with the nonlinear finite element damage (FE) method to the translation of a linear solver. The analyzed tensile test sample is modelled using the ply-by-ply method. To describe the nonlinear post-damage behavior of the material, the Hashin model is used. To validate the transformation, an analysis and comparison of the damage results of the linearized and nonlinear model is carried out. Job linearization was performed by collecting elements into groups based on their level of damage and pairing them with unique material cards. Potentially suitable mathematical functions are tested for the grouping and consolidation of the elements. The results show that the agreement of some presented methods depends on the damage level. The influence of the selected statistical functions on the result is shown here. The optimal solution is demonstrated, and the most efficient method of linearization is presented. The main motivation behind this work is that the problem has not been discussed in the literature and that there is currently no commercial software translator that provides the transference of models between solvers.