bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Suspended Sediments in the Negro River, Amazon Basin, from In Situ and Sentinel-2 Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Marinho Rogério Ribeiro , Harmel Tristan , Martinez Jean-Michel , Filizola Junior Naziano Pantoja
Published: February 2021

Monitoring suspended sediments through remote sensing data in black-water rivers is a challenge. Herein, remote sensing reflectance (Rrs) from in situ measurements and Sentinel-2 Multi-Spectral Instrument (MSI) images were used to estimate the suspended sediment concentration (SSC) in the largest black-water river of the Amazon basin. The Negro River exhibits extremely low Rrs values (<0.005 sr−1 at visible and near-infrared bands) due to the elevated absorption of coloured dissolved organic matter (aCDOM at 440 nm > 7 m−1) caused by the high amount of dissolved organic carbon (DOC > 7 mg L−1) and low SSC (<5 mg L−1). Interannual variability of Rrs is primarily controlled by the input of suspended sediments from the Branco River, which is a clear water river that governs the changes in the apparent optical properties of the Negro River, even at distances that are greater than 90 km from its mouth. Better results were obtained using the Sentinel-2 MSI Red band (Band 4 at 665 nm) in order to estimate the SSC, with an R2 value greater than 0.85 and an error less than 20% in the adjusted models. The magnitudes of water reflectance in the Sentinel-2 MSI Red band were consistent with in situ Rrs measurements, indicating the large spatial variability of the lower SSC values (0 to 15 mg L−1) in a complex anabranching reach of the Negro River. The in situ and satellite data analysed in this study indicates sedimentation processes in the lower Negro River near the Amazon River. The results suggest that the radiometric characteristics of sensors, like sentinel-2 MSI, are suitable for monitoring the suspended sediment concentration in large tropical black-water rivers.
Computational Selectivity Assessment of Protease Inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Fischer André , Sellner Manuel , Mitusińska Karolina , Bzówka Maria , Lill Markus A. , Góra Artur , Smieško Martin
Published: February 2021

The pandemic of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a serious global health threat. Since no specific therapeutics are available, researchers around the world screened compounds to inhibit various molecular targets of SARS-CoV-2 including its main protease (Mpro) essential for viral replication. Due to the high urgency of these discovery efforts, off-target binding, which is one of the major reasons for drug-induced toxicity and safety-related drug attrition, was neglected. Here, we used molecular docking, toxicity profiling, and multiple molecular dynamics (MD) protocols to assess the selectivity of 33 reported non-covalent inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro against eight proteases and 16 anti-targets. The panel of proteases included SARS-CoV Mpro, cathepsin G, caspase-3, ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1), thrombin, factor Xa, chymase, and prostasin. Several of the assessed compounds presented considerable off-target binding towards the panel of proteases, as well as the selected anti-targets. Our results further suggest a high risk of off-target binding to chymase and cathepsin G. Thus, in future discovery projects, experimental selectivity assessment should be directed toward these proteases. A systematic selectivity assessment of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro inhibitors, as we report it, was not previously conducted.
Costunolide, a Sesquiterpene Lactone, Suppresses Skin Cancer via Induction of Apoptosis and Blockage of Cell Proliferation
Authors: Lee Sung Ho , Cho Young-Chang , Lim Jae Sung
Published: February 2021

Costunolide is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene lactone that demonstrates various therapeutic actions such as anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Costunolide has recently emerged as a potential anti-cancer agent in various types of cancer, including colon, lung, and breast cancer. However, its mode of action in skin cancer remains unclear. To determine the anti-cancer potential of costunolide in skin cancer, human epidermoid carcinoma cell line A431 was treated with costunolide. A lactate dehydrogenase assay showed that costunolide diminished the viability of A431 cells. Apoptotic cells were detected by annexin V/propidium iodide double staining and Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay assay, and costunolide induced cell apoptosis via activation of caspase-3 as well as induction of poly-ADP ribose polymerase cleavage in A431 cells. In addition, costunolide elevated the level of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax while lowering the levels of anti-apoptotic proteins, including Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL. To address the inhibitory effect of costunolide on cell proliferation and survival, various signaling pathways, including mitogen-activated protein kinases, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), and Akt, were investigated. Costunolide activated the p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase pathways while suppressing the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), STAT3, NF-κB, and Akt pathways in A431 cells. Consequently, it was inferred that costunolide suppresses cell proliferation and survival via these signaling pathways. Taken together, our data clearly indicated that costunolide exerts anti-cancer activity in A431 cells by suppressing cell growth via inhibition of proliferation and promotion of apoptosis. Therefore, it may be employed as a potentially tumor-specific candidate in skin cancer treatment.
Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase (PI3K) Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)-Activated Prodrug in Combination with Anthracycline Impairs PI3K Signaling, Increases DNA Damage Response and Reduces Breast Cancer Cell Growth
Authors: Mishra Rosalin , Yuan Long , Patel Hima , Karve Aniruddha S. , Zhu Haizhou , White Aaron , Alanazi Samar , Desai Pankaj , Merino Edward J. , Garrett Joan T.
Published: February 2021

RIDR-PI-103 is a novel reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced drug release prodrug with a self-cyclizing moiety linked to a pan-PI3K inhibitor (PI-103). Under high ROS, PI-103 is released in a controlled manner to inhibit PI3K. The efficacy and bioavailability of RIDR-PI-103 in breast cancer remains unexplored. Cell viability of RIDR-PI-103 was assessed on breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-361 and MDA-MB-453), non-tumorigenic MCF10A and fibroblasts. Matrigel colony formation, cell proliferation and migration assays examined the migratory properties of breast cancers upon treatment with RIDR-PI-103 and doxorubicin. Western blots determined the effect of doxorubicin ± RIDR-PI-103 on AKT activation and DNA damage response. Pharmacokinetic (PK) studies using C57BL/6J mice determined systemic exposure (plasma concentrations and overall area under the curve) and T1/2 of RIDR-PI-103. MDA-MB-453, MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-361 cells were sensitive to RIDR-PI-103 vs. MCF10A and normal fibroblast. Combination of doxorubicin and RIDR-PI-103 suppressed cancer cell growth and proliferation. Doxorubicin with RIDR-PI-103 inhibited p-AktS473, upregulated p-CHK1/2 and p-P53. PK studies showed that ~200 ng/mL (0.43 µM) RIDR-PI-103 is achievable in mice plasma with an initial dose of 20 mg/kg and a 10 h T1/2. (4) The prodrug RIDR-PI-103 could be a potential therapeutic for treatment of breast cancer patients.
Adsorption Studies of Volatile Organic Compound (Naphthalene) from Aqueous Effluents: Chemical Activation Process Using Weak Lewis Acid, Equilibrium Kinetics and Isotherm Modelling
Authors: Akinpelu Adeola A. , Chowdhury Zaira Zaman , Shibly Shahjalal Mohd. , Faisal Abu Nasser Mohd , Badruddin Irfan Anjum , Rahman Md. Mahfujur , Amin Md. Al , Sagadevan Suresh , Akbarzadeh Omid , Khan T. M. Yunus , Kamangar Sarfaraz , Khalid Khalisanni , Saidur R. , Johan Mohd Rafie
Published: February 2021

This study deals with the preparation of activated carbon (CDSP) from date seed powder (DSP) by chemical activation to eliminate polyaromatic hydrocarbon—PAHs (naphthalene—C10H8) from synthetic wastewater. The chemical activation process was carried out using a weak Lewis acid of zinc acetate dihydrate salt (Zn(CH3CO2)2·2H2O). The equilibrium isotherm and kinetics analysis was carried out using DSP and CDSP samples, and their performances were compared for the removal of a volatile organic compound—naphthalene (C10H8)—from synthetic aqueous effluents or wastewater. The equilibrium isotherm data was analyzed using the linear regression model of the Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin equations. The R2 values for the Langmuir isotherm were 0.93 and 0.99 for naphthalene (C10H8) adsorption using DSP and CDSP, respectively. CDSP showed a higher equilibrium sorption capacity (qe) of 379.64 µg/g. DSP had an equilibrium sorption capacity of 369.06 µg/g for C10H8. The rate of reaction was estimated for C10H8 adsorption using a pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order and Elovich kinetic equation. The reaction mechanism for both the sorbents (CDSP and DSP) was studied using the intraparticle diffusion model. The equilibrium data was well-fitted with the pseudo-second order kinetics model showing the chemisorption nature of the equilibrium system. CDSP showed a higher sorption performance than DSP due to its higher BET surface area and carbon content. Physiochemical characterizations of the DSP and CDSP samples were carried out using the BET surface area analysis, Fourier-scanning microscopic analysis (FSEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis and Fourier-transform spectroscopic analysis (FTIR). A thermogravimetric and ultimate analysis was also carried out to determine the carbon content in both the sorbents (DSP and CDSP) here. This study confirms the potential of DSP and CDSP to remove C10H8 from lab-scale synthetic wastewater.
Internet of Things: A General Overview between Architectures, Protocols and Applications
Authors: Lombardi Marco , Pascale Francesco , Santaniello Domenico
Published: February 2021

In recent years, the growing number of devices connected to the internet has increased significantly. These devices can interact with the external environment and with human beings through a wide range of sensors that, perceiving reality through the digitization of some parameters of interest, can provide an enormous amount of data. All this data is then shared on the network with other devices and with different applications and infrastructures. This dynamic and ever-changing world underlies the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm. To date, countless applications based on IoT have been developed; think of Smart Cities, smart roads, and smart industries. This article analyzes the current architectures, technologies, protocols, and applications that characterize the paradigm.
Vector Transmission of Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Thailand Virus by the Whitefly Bemisia tabaci: Circulative or Propagative?
Authors: Li Wei-Hua , Mou De-Fen , Hsieh Chien-Kuei , Weng Sung-Hsia , Tsai Wen-Shi , Tsai Chi-Wei
Published: February 2021

Viruses that cause tomato yellow leaf curl disease are part of a group of viruses of the genus Begomovirus, family Geminiviridae. Tomato-infecting begomoviruses cause epidemics in tomato crops in tropical, subtropical, and Mediterranean climates, and they are exclusively transmitted by Bemisia tabaci in the field. The objective of the present study was to examine the transmission biology of the tomato yellow leaf curl Thailand virus (TYLCTHV) by B. tabaci, including virus-infected tissues, virus translocation, virus replication, and transovarial transmission. The results demonstrated that the virus translocates from the alimentary gut to the salivary glands via the hemolymph, without apparent replication when acquired by B. tabaci. Furthermore, the virus was detected in 10% of the first-generation progeny of viruliferous females, but the progeny was unable to cause the viral infection of host plants. There was no evidence of transovarial transmission of TYLCTHV in B. tabaci. When combined with the current literature, our results suggest that B. tabaci transmits TYLCTHV in a persistent-circulative mode. The present study enhances our understanding of virus–vector interaction and the transmission biology of TYLCTHV in B. tabaci.
Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA): Surgical Outcomes and Learning Curve
Authors: Chai Young Jun , Chae Sumin , Oh Moon Young , Kwon Hyungju , Park Won Seo
Published: February 2021

The transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) has excellent cosmetic effects and its popularity is increasing worldwide. We present our experience with TOETVA and its short-term outcomes. This study included 110 consecutive patients who underwent TOETVA at a single institution between July 2016 and June 2020. We analyzed clinicopathologic data, short-term postoperative outcomes, and learning curve using cumulative summation (CUSUM) analysis. Of the 110 patients who underwent TOETVA, 101 had malignant disease and 100 (90.9%) underwent lobectomy. The mean age was 39.7 ± 9.7 years, and the mean tumor size was 1.0 ± 0.7 cm (range, 0.3–3.6 cm). Operation time was 168.0 ± 63.4 min for total thyroidectomy, 111.0 ± 27.7 min for lobectomy, and 73.7 ± 18.1 min for isthmusectomy. Five patients (4.5%) experienced transient vocal cord palsy (VCP) and one (0.9%) had permanent VCP. The swallowing impairment index-6 score was 2.18 ± 3.21 at postoperative three months, and 0.97 ± 1.72 at postoperative six months. The learning curve for lobectomy was 58 cases in CUSUM analysis. TOETVA is a safe and feasible approach with an acceptable operation time and a low complication rate. This approach is a surgical option for patients who desire excellent cosmesis.
Revisiting the Instrumented Romberg Test: Can Today’s Technology Offer a Risk-of-Fall Screening Device for Senior Citizens? An Experience-Based Approach
Authors: Gallamini Michele , Piastra Giorgio , Lucarini Simonetta , Porzio Debora , Ronchi Matteo , Pirino Alessio , Scoppa Fabio , Masiero Stefano , Tognolo Lucrezia
Published: February 2021

Risk of fall (ROF) is a worldwide major concern for its prevalence and consequent dramatic outcomes in the elderly population. The growing age-related risk appears to be associated with increasing motor, sensory, and cognitive problems in the elderly population. There is a consensus on the need to screen for these balance dysfunctions, but the available methods are largely based on subjectively assessed performances. The instrumented Romberg test using a force plate represents a validated assessment process for the evaluation of balance performances. The purpose of this study is to propose an innovative instrumental method to identify balance deficits, assess their severity, and give an automated indication of the most likely etiology. The proposed new method was applied to the instrumented Romberg test, using force plate data recorded in a cohort of 551 females aged >65 participating in adapted physical activity courses. The method allowed us to identify 145 dysfunctional subjects and to determine the likely origin of their deficit: 21 central, 5 vestibular, 9 visual, 59 proprioceptive (musculoskeletal etiology), and 51 functional. Based on the preliminary findings of the study, this test could be an efficient and cost-effective mass screening tool for identifying subjects at risk of fall, since the procedure proves to be rapid, non-invasive, and apparently devoid of any contraindications.
Interplay between Cryptocurrency Transactions and Online Financial Forums
Authors: Fernández Vilas Ana , Díaz Redondo Rebeca P. , Couto Cancela Daniel , Torrado Pazos Alejandro
Published: February 2021

Cryptocurrencies are a type of digital money meant to provide security and anonymity while using cryptography techniques. Although cryptocurrencies represent a breakthrough and provide some important benefits, their usage poses some risks that are a result of the lack of supervising institutions and transparency. Because disinformation and volatility is discouraging for personal investors, cryptocurrencies emerged hand-in-hand with the proliferation of online users’ communities and forums as places to share information that can alleviate users’ mistrust. This research focuses on the study of the interplay between these cryptocurrency forums and fluctuations in cryptocurrency values. In particular, the most popular cryptocurrency Bitcoin (BTC) and a related active discussion community, Bitcointalk, are analyzed. This study shows that the activity of Bitcointalk forum keeps a direct relationship with the trend in the values of BTC, therefore analysis of this interaction would be a perfect base to support personal investments in a non-regulated market and, to confirm whether cryptocurrency forums show evidences to detect abnormal behaviors in BTC values as well as to predict or estimate these values. The experiment highlights that forum data can explain specific events in the financial field. It also underlines the relevance of quotes (regular mechanism to response a post) at periods: (1) when there is a high concentration of posts around certain topics; (2) when peaks in the BTC price are observed; and, (3) when the BTC price gradually shifts downwards and users intend to sell.
Pseudodesulfovibrio cashew sp. Nov., a Novel Deep-Sea Sulfate-Reducing Bacterium, Linking Heavy Metal Resistance and Sulfur Cycle
Authors: Zheng Rikuan , Wu Shimei , Sun Chaomin
Published: February 2021

Sulfur cycling is primarily driven by sulfate reduction mediated by sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in marine sediments. The dissimilatory sulfate reduction drives the production of enormous quantities of reduced sulfide and thereby the formation of highly insoluble metal sulfides in marine sediments. Here, a novel sulfate-reducing bacterium designated Pseudodesulfovibrio cashew SRB007 was isolated and purified from the deep-sea cold seep and proposed to represent a novel species in the genus of Pseudodesulfovibrio. A detailed description of the phenotypic traits, phylogenetic status and central metabolisms of strain SRB007 allowed the reconstruction of the metabolic potential and lifestyle of a novel member of deep-sea SRB. Notably, P. cashew SRB007 showed a strong ability to resist and remove different heavy metal ions including Co2+, Ni2+, Cd2+ and Hg2+. The dissimilatory sulfate reduction was demonstrated to contribute to the prominent removal capability of P. cashew SRB007 against different heavy metals via the formation of insoluble metal sulfides.
Deep Ultraviolet Light-Emitting Diode Light Therapy for Fusobacterium nucleatum
Authors: Fukuda Soichiro , Ito Shunsuke , Nishikawa Jun , Takagi Tatsuya , Kubota Naoto , Otsuyama Ken-ichiro , Tsuneoka Hidehiro , Nojima Junzo , Harada Koji , Mishima Katsuaki , Suehiro Yutaka , Yamasaki Takahiro , Sakaida Isao
Published: February 2021

Background: Fusobacterium nucleatum, which is associated with periodontitis and gingivitis, has been detected in colorectal cancer (CRC). Methods: We evaluated the bactericidal effect of deep ultraviolet (DUV) light-emitting diode (LED) light therapy on F. nucleatum both qualitatively and quantitatively. Two DUV-LEDs with peak wavelengths of 265 and 280-nm were used. DNA damage to F. nucleatum was evaluated by the production of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPD) and pyrimidine (6–4) pyrimidone photoproducts (6–4PP). Results: DUV-LEDs showed a bactericidal effect on F. nucleatum. No colony growth was observed after 3 min of either 265 nm or 280 nm DUV-LED irradiation. The survival rates of F. nucleatum under 265 nm DUV-LED light irradiation dropped to 0.0014% for 10 s and to 0% for 20 s irradiation. Similarly, the survival rate of F. nucleatum under 280 nm DUV-LED light irradiation dropped to 0.00044% for 10 s and 0% for 20 s irradiation. The irradiance at the distance of 35 mm from the DUV-LED was 0.265 mW/cm2 for the 265 nm LED and 0.415 mW/cm2 for the 280 nm LED. Thus, the radiant energy for lethality was 5.3 mJ/cm2 for the 265 nm LED and 8.3 mJ/cm2 for the 280 nm LED. Amounts of CPD and 6–4PP in F. nucleatum irradiated with 265 nm DUV-LED light were 6.548 ng/µg and 1.333 ng/µg, respectively. Conclusions: DUV-LED light exerted a bactericidal effect on F. nucleatum by causing the formation of pyrimidine dimers indicative of DNA damage. Thus, DUV-LED light therapy may have the potential to prevent CRC.
Nitrogen Sources and Iron Availability Affect Pigment Biosynthesis and Nutrient Consumption in Anabaena sp. UTEX 2576
Authors: Norena-Caro Daniel , Malone Tara , Benton Michael
Published: February 2021

Anabaena sp. UTEX 2576 metabolizes multiple nitrogen (N) sources and is deemed a biotechnological platform for chemical production. Cyanobacteria have been identified as prolific producers of biofertilizers, biopolymers, biofuels, and other bioactive compounds. Here, we analyze the effect of different N-sources and Fe availability on the bioproduction of phycobiliproteins and β-carotene. We characterize nutrient demand in modified BG11 media, including data on CO2 fixation rates, N-source consumption, and mineral utilization (e.g., phosphorus (P), and 11 metallic elements). Results suggest that non-diazotrophic cultures grow up to 60% faster than diazotrophic cells, resulting in 20% higher CO2-fixation rates. While the production of β-carotene was maximum in medium with NaNO3, Fe starvation increased the cellular abundance of C-phycocyanin and allophycocyanin by at least 22%. Compared to cells metabolizing NaNO3 and N2, cultures adapted to urea media increased their P, calcium and manganese demands by at least 72%, 97% and 76%, respectively. Variations on pigmentation and nutrient uptake were attributed to changes in phycocyanobilin biosynthesis, light-induced oxidation of carotenoids, and urea-promoted peroxidation. This work presents insights into developing optimal Anabaena culture for efficient operations of bioproduction and wastewater bioremediation with cyanobacteria.
SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: Not the First, Not the Last
Authors: Calistri Paolo , Decaro Nicola , Lorusso Alessio
Published: February 2021

The common trait among the betacoronaviruses that emerged during the past two decades (the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus—SARS-CoV, the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus—MERS-CoV, and the recent SARS coronavirus 2—SARS-CoV-2) is their probable animal origin, all deriving from viruses present in bat species. Bats have arisen the attention of the scientific community as reservoir of emerging viruses, given their wide geographical distribution, their biological diversity (around 1400 species, 21 different families and over 200 genera), and their peculiar ecological and physiological characteristics which seem to facilitate them in harbouring a high viral diversity. Several human activities may enable the viral spill-over from bats to humans, such as deforestation, land-use changes, increased livestock grazing or intensive production of vegetal cultures. In addition, the globalization of trade and high global human mobility allow these viruses to be disseminated in few hours in many parts of the World. In order to avoid the emergence of new pandemic threats in the future we need to substantially change our global models of social and economic development, posing the conservation of biodiversity and the preservation of natural ecosystems as a pillar for the protection of global human health.
Bacterial Interactions with Aspergillus fumigatus in the Immunocompromised Lung
Authors: Margalit Anatte , Carolan James C. , Kavanagh Kevin
Published: February 2021

The immunocompromised airways are susceptible to infections caused by a range of pathogens which increases the opportunity for polymicrobial interactions to occur. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus are the predominant causes of pulmonary infection for individuals with respiratory disorders such as cystic fibrosis (CF). The spore-forming fungus Aspergillus fumigatus, is most frequently isolated with P. aeruginosa, and co-infection results in poor outcomes for patients. It is therefore clinically important to understand how these pathogens interact with each other and how such interactions may contribute to disease progression so that appropriate therapeutic strategies may be developed. Despite its persistence in the airways throughout the life of a patient, A. fumigatus rarely becomes the dominant pathogen. In vitro interaction studies have revealed remarkable insights into the molecular mechanisms that drive agonistic and antagonistic interactions that occur between A. fumigatus and pulmonary bacterial pathogens such as P. aeruginosa. Crucially, these studies demonstrate that although bacteria may predominate in a competitive environment, A. fumigatus has the capacity to persist and contribute to disease.
Characterization of the Habitat- and Season-Independent Increase in Fungal Biomass Induced by the Invasive Giant Goldenrod and Its Impact on the Fungivorous Nematode Community
Authors: Harkes Paula , van Heumen Lisa J. M. , van den Elsen Sven J. J. , Mooijman Paul J. W. , Vervoort Mariëtte T. W. , Gort Gerrit , Holterman Martijn H. M. , van Steenbrugge Joris J. M. , Quist Casper W. , Helder Johannes
Published: February 2021

Outside its native range, the invasive plant species giant goldenrod (Solidago gigantea) has been shown to increase belowground fungal biomass. This non-obvious effect is poorly characterized; we don’t know whether it is plant developmental stage-dependent, which fractions of the fungal community are affected, and whether it is reflected in the next trophic level. To address these questions, fungal assemblages in soil samples collected from invaded and uninvaded plots in two soil types were compared. Although using ergosterol as a marker for fungal biomass demonstrated a significant increase in fungal biomass, specific quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays did not point at a quantitative shift. MiSeq-based characterization of the belowground effects of giant goldenrod revealed a local increase of mainly Cladosporiaceae and Glomeraceae. This asymmetric boost in the fungal community was reflected in a specific shift in the fungivorous nematode community. Our findings provide insight into the potential impact of invasive plants on local fungal communities.
Pyrene Carboxylate Ligand Based Coordination Polymers for Microwave-Assisted Solvent-Free Cyanosilylation of Aldehydes
Authors: Karmakar Anirban , Paul Anup , Sabatini Elia Pantanetti , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: February 2021

The new coordination polymers (CPs) [Zn(μ-1κO1:1κO2-L)(H2O)2]n·n(H2O) (1) and [Cd(μ4-1κO1O2:2κN:3,4κO3-L)(H2O)]n·n(H2O) (2) are reported, being prepared by the solvothermal reactions of 5-{(pyren-4-ylmethyl)amino}isophthalic acid (H2L) with Zn(NO3)2.6H2O or Cd(NO3)2.4H2O, respectively. They were synthesized in a basic ethanolic medium or a DMF:H2O mixture, respectively. These compounds were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, FTIR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric and elemental analysis. The single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that compound 1 is a one dimensional linear coordination polymer, whereas 2 presents a two dimensional network. In both compounds, the coordinating ligand (L2−) is twisted due to the rotation of the pyrene ring around the CH2-NH bond. In compound 1, the Zn(II) metal ion has a tetrahedral geometry, whereas, in 2, the dinuclear [Cd2(COO)2] moiety acts as a secondary building unit and the Cd(II) ion possesses a distorted octahedral geometry. Recently, several CPs have been explored for the cyanosilylation reaction under conventional conditions, but microwave-assisted cyanosilylation of aldehydes catalyzed by CPs has not yet been well studied. Thus, we have tested the solvent-free microwave-assisted cyanosilylation reactions of different aldehydes, with trimethylsilyl cyanide, using our synthesized compounds, which behave as highly active heterogeneous catalysts. The coordination polymer 1 is more effective than 2, conceivably due to the higher Lewis acidity of the Zn(II) than the Cd(II) center and to a higher accessibility of the metal centers in the former framework. We have also checked the heterogeneity and recyclability of these coordination polymers, showing that they remain active at least after four recyclings.
Essential Oils as a Potential Neuroprotective Remedy for Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Review
Authors: Abd Rashed Aswir , Abd Rahman Ahmad Zuhairi , Rathi Devi Nair Gunasegavan
Published: February 2021

Despite the improvements in life expectancy, neurodegenerative conditions have arguably become the most dreaded maladies of older people. The neuroprotective and anti-ageing potentials of essential oils (EOs) are widely evaluated around the globe. The objective of this review is to analyse the effectiveness of EOs as neuroprotective remedies among the four common age-related neurodegenerative diseases. The literature was extracted from three databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar) between the years of 2010 to 2020 using the medical subject heading (MeSH) terms “essential oil”, crossed with “Alzheimer’s disease (AD)”, “Huntington’s disease (HD)”, “Parkinson’s disease (PD)” or “amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)”. Eighty three percent (83%) of the studies were focused on AD, while another 12% focused on PD. No classifiable study was recorded on HD or ALS. EO from Salvia officinalis has been recorded as one of the most effective acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitors. However, only Cinnamomum sp. has been assessed for its effectiveness in both AD and PD. Our review provided useful evidence on EOs as potential neuroprotective remedies for age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Plant-Derived Anticancer Compounds as New Perspectives in Drug Discovery and Alternative Therapy
Authors: Dehelean Cristina Adriana , Marcovici Iasmina , Soica Codruta , Mioc Marius , Coricovac Dorina , Iurciuc Stela , Cretu Octavian Marius , Pinzaru Iulia
Published: February 2021

Despite the recent advances in the field of chemically synthetized pharmaceutical agents, nature remains the main supplier of bioactive molecules. The research of natural products is a valuable approach for the discovery and development of novel biologically active compounds possessing unique structures and mechanisms of action. Although their use belongs to the traditional treatment regimes, plant-derived compounds still cover a large portion of the current-day pharmaceutical agents. Their medical importance is well recognized in the field of oncology, especially as an alternative to the limitations of conventional chemotherapy (severe side effects and inefficacy due to the occurrence of multi-drug resistance). This review offers a comprehensive perspective of the first blockbuster chemotherapeutic agents of natural origin’s (e.g. taxol, vincristine, doxorubicin) mechanism of action using 3D representation. In addition is portrayed the step-by-step evolution from preclinical to clinical evaluation of the most recently studied natural compounds with potent antitumor activity (e.g. resveratrol, curcumin, betulinic acid, etc.) in terms of anticancer mechanisms of action and the possible indications as chemotherapeutic or chemopreventive agents and sensitizers. Finally, this review describes several efficient platforms for the encapsulation and targeted delivery of natural compounds in cancer treatment
Mycomedicine: A Unique Class of Natural Products with Potent Anti-tumour Bioactivities
Authors: Dai Rongchen , Liu Mengfan , Nik Nabil Wan Najbah , Xi Zhichao , Xu Hongxi
Published: February 2021

Mycomedicine is a unique class of natural medicine that has been widely used in Asian countries for thousands of years. Modern mycomedicine consists of fruiting bodies, spores, or other tissues of medicinal fungi, as well as bioactive components extracted from them, including polysaccharides and, triterpenoids, etc. Since the discovery of the famous fungal extract, penicillin, by Alexander Fleming in the late 19th century, researchers have realised the significant antibiotic and other medicinal values of fungal extracts. As medicinal fungi and fungal metabolites can induce apoptosis or autophagy, enhance the immune response, and reduce metastatic potential, several types of mushrooms, such as Ganoderma lucidum and Grifola frondosa, have been extensively investigated, and anti-cancer drugs have been developed from their extracts. Although some studies have highlighted the anti-cancer properties of a single, specific mushroom, only limited reviews have summarised diverse medicinal fungi as mycomedicine. In this review, we not only list the structures and functions of pharmaceutically active components isolated from mycomedicine, but also summarise the mechanisms underlying the potent bioactivities of several representative mushrooms in the Kingdom Fungi against various types of tumour.
Anti-MRSA Constituents from Ruta chalepensis (Rutaceae) Grown in Iraq, and In Silico Studies on Two of Most Active Compounds, Chalepensin and 6-Hydroxy-rutin 3′,7-Dimethyl ether
Authors: Al-Majmaie Shaymaa , Nahar Lutfun , Rahman M. Mukhlesur , Nath Sushmita , Saha Priyanka , Talukdar Anupam Das , Sharples George P. , Sarker Satyajit D.
Published: February 2021

Ruta chalepensis L. (Rutaceae), a perennial herb with wild and cultivated habitats, is well known for its traditional uses as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic agent, and in the treatment of rheumatism, nerve diseases, neuralgia, dropsy, convulsions and mental disorders. The antimicrobial activities of the crude extracts from the fruits, leaves, stem and roots of R. chalepensis were initially evaluated against two Gram-positive and two Gram-negative bacterial strains and a strain of the fungus Candida albicans. Phytochemical investigation afforded 19 compounds, including alkaloids, coumarins, flavonoid glycosides, a cinnamic acid derivative and a long-chain alkane. These compounds were tested against a panel of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains, i.e., ATCC 25923, SA-1199B, XU212, MRSA-274819 and EMRSA-15. The MIC values of the active compounds, chalepin (9), chalepensin (10), rutamarin (11), rutin 3′-methyl ether (14), rutin 7,4′-dimethyl ether (15), 6-hydroxy-rutin 3′,7-dimethyl ether (16) and arborinine (18) were in the range of 32–128 µg/mL against the tested MRSA strains. Compounds 10 and 16 were the most active compounds from R. chalepensis, and were active against four out of six tested MRSA strains, and in silico studies were performed on these compounds. The anti-MRSA activity of compound 16 was comparable to that of the positive control norfloxacin (MICs 32 vs 16 μg/mL, respectively) against the MRSA strain XU212, which is a Kuwaiti hospital isolate that possesses the TetK tetracycline efflux pump. This is the first report on the anti-MRSA property of compounds isolated from R. chalepensis and relevant in silico studies on the most active compounds.
Identification of Key Candidate Genes Involved in the Progression of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Cui Yu , Ji Jie , Hou Jiwei , Tan Yi , Han Xiaodong
Published: February 2021

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lethal, agnogenic interstitial lung disease with limited therapeutic options. To investigate vital genes involved in the development of IPF, we integrated and compared four expression profiles (GSE110147, GSE53845, GSE24206, and GSE10667), including 87 IPF samples and 40 normal samples. By reanalyzing these datasets, we managed to identify 62 upregulated genes and 20 downregulated genes in IPF samples compared with normal samples. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed by gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis to illustrate relevant pathways of IPF, biological processes, molecular function, and cell components. The DEGs were then subjected to protein–protein interaction (PPI) for network analysis, serving to find 11 key candidate genes (ANXA3, STX11, THBS2, MMP1, MMP9, MMP7, MMP10, SPP1, COL1A1, ITGB8, IGF1). The result of RT-qPCR and immunohistochemical staining verified our finding as well. In summary, we identified 11 key candidate genes related to the process of IPF, which may contribute to novel treatments of IPF.
A Significant Change in Free Amino Acids of Soybean (Glycine max L. Merr) through Ethylene Application
Authors: Ban Yeong Jun , Song Yeong Hun , Kim Jeong Yoon , Cha Joon Yung , Ali Imdad , Baiseitova Aizhamal , Shah Abdul Bari , Kim Woe-Yeon , Park Ki Hun
Published: February 2021

In this study, the changes in free amino acids of soybean leaves after ethylene application were characterized based on quantitative and metabolomic analyses. All essential and nonessential amino acids in soybean leaves were enhanced by fivefold (250 to 1284 mg/100 g) and sixfold (544 to 3478 mg/100 g), respectively, via ethylene application. In particular, it was found that asparagine is the main component, comprising approximately 41% of the total amino acids with a twenty-five fold increase (78 to 1971 mg/100 g). Moreover, arginine and branched chain amino acids (Val, Leu, and Ile) increased by about 14 and 2–5 times, respectively. The increase in free amino acid in stem was also similar to the leaves. The metabolites in treated and untreated soybean leaves were systematically identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and partial variance discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) scores and heat map analysis were given to understand the changes of each metabolite. The application of ethylene may provide good nutrient potential for soybean leaves.
Synthesis of Highly Conductive Electrospun Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate Nanofibers Using the Electroless Deposition Method
Authors: Hussain Nadir , Mehdi Mujahid , Yousif Muhammad , Ali Aizaz , Ullah Sana , Hussain Siyal Sajid , Hussain Tanweer , Kim Ick Soo
Published: February 2021

Plastic bottles are generally recycled by remolding them into numerous products. In this study, waste from plastic bottles was used to fabricate recycled polyethylene terephthalate (r-PET) nanofibers via the electrospinning technique, and high-performance conductive polyethylene terephthalate nanofibers (r-PET nanofibers) were prepared followed by copper deposition using the electroless deposition (ELD) method. Firstly, the electrospun r-PET nanofibers were chemically modified with silane molecules and polymerized with 2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl trimethylammonium chloride (METAC) solution. Finally, the copper deposition was achieved on the surface of chemically modified r-PET nanofibers by simple chemical/ion attraction. The water contact angle of r-PET nanofibers, chemically modified r-PET nanofibers, and copper deposited nanofibers were 140°, 80°, and 138°, respectively. The r-PET nanofibers retained their fibrous morphology after copper deposition, and EDX results confirmed the presence of copper on the surface of r-PET nanofibers. XPS was performed to analyze chemical changes before and after copper deposition on r-PET nanofibers. The successful deposition of copper one r-PET nanofibers showed an excellent electrical resistance of 0.1 ohms/cm and good mechanical strength according to ASTM D-638.
Modern Nanocomposites and Hybrids as Electrode Materials Used in Energy Carriers
Authors: Kurc Beata , Pigłowska Marita , Rymaniak Łukasz , Fuć Paweł
Published: February 2021

Over the past decades, the application of new hybrid materials in energy storage systems has seen significant development. The efforts have been made to improve electrochemical performance, cyclic stability, and cell life. To achieve this, attempts have been made to modify existing electrode materials. This was achieved by using nano-scale materials. A reduction of size enabled an obtainment of changes of conductivity, efficient energy storage and/or conversion (better kinetics), emergence of superparamagnetism, and the enhancement of optical properties, resulting in better electrochemical performance. The design of hybrid heterostructures enabled taking full advantage of each component, synergistic effect, and interaction between components, resulting in better cycle stability and conductivity. Nowadays, nanocomposite has ended up one of the foremost prevalent materials with potential applications in batteries, flexible cells, fuel cells, photovoltaic cells, and photocatalysis. The main goal of this review is to highlight a new progress of different hybrid materials, nanocomposites (also polymeric) used in lithium-ion (LIBs) and sodium-ion (NIBs) cells, solar cells, supercapacitors, and fuel cells and their electrochemical performance.
How Healthy Are Health-Related Behaviors in University Students: The HOLISTic Study
Authors: Cena Hellas , Porri Debora , De Giuseppe Rachele , Kalmpourtzidou Aliki , Salvatore Fiorella Pia , El Ghoch Marwan , Itani Leila , Kreidieh Dima , Brytek-Matera Anna , Pocol Cristina Bianca , Arteta Arteta Donaldo Segundo , Utan Gözde , Kolčić Ivana
Published: February 2021

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the health-related behaviors among university students, with emphasis on health sciences students from Croatia, Italy, Lebanon, Poland, Romania, Spain and Turkey. We included 6222 students in Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Dietetics, Sports Sciences, Veterinary, and Economics enrolled between April 2018 and March 2020. We assessed dietary patterns, sleeping habits, physical activity and perceived stress among students by means of validated questionnaires. The median age ranged between 19 and 24 years, smoking prevalence between 12.0% and 35.4%, and body mass index (BMI) ranged between 21.1 and 23.2 kg/m2. Breakfast was less often and more often consumed daily in Turkey (36.7%), and Italy (75.7%), respectively. The highest Mediterranean diet score was recorded in Spain and Italy, and the lowest in Turkey, followed by students from Croatia, Lebanon, Poland and Romania. Sleep duration, physical activity and stress perception also differed between countries. Multivariable regression analysis revealed a small, but positive association between BMI and several characteristics, including age, female gender, smoking, physical activity, mobile phone use, and perceived stress. A negative association was found between BMI and sleep duration on non-working days. Self-rated health perception was positively associated with female gender, breakfast, physical activity, and time spent studying, and negatively with BMI, smoking and stress. Our results demonstrated diverse habits in students from different countries, some of which were less healthy than anticipated, given their educational background. Greater emphasis needs to be placed on improving the lifestyle of these adolescents and young adults, who will be tomorrow’s healthcare workers.
Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia Prophylaxis for Cancer Patients during Chemotherapy
Authors: Takeuchi Kazuto , Yakushijin Yoshihiro
Published: February 2021

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) is one type of life-threatening pneumonia in immunocompromised patients. PJP development should be considered in not only immunocompromised individuals, but also patients undergoing intensive chemotherapies and immunotherapies, organ transplantation, or corticosteroid treatment. Past studies have described the clinical manifestation of PJP in patients during chemotherapy and reported that PJP affects cancer treatment outcomes. Therefore, PJP could be a potential problem for the management of cancer patients during chemotherapy, and PJP prophylaxis would be important during cancer treatment. This review discusses PJ colonization in outpatients during cancer chemotherapy, as well as in healthy individuals, and provides an update on PJP prophylaxis for cancer patients during chemotherapy.
Α Multicenter Retrospective Study Evaluating Brivaracetam in the Treatment of Epilepsies in Clinical Practice
Authors: Stefanatou Maria , Vasileiadou Kapetanou Eirini , Kimiskidis Vasilios K. , Papaliagkas Vasileios , Polychronopoulos Panagiotis , Markoula Sofia , Charisiou Kleoniki , Kazis Dimitrios , Verentzioti Anastasia , Patrikelis Panayiotis , Alexoudi Athanasia , Gatzonis Stylianos
Published: February 2021

Brivaracetam (BRV) is the latest approved antiepileptic drug. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of BRV in everyday clinical practice. In this retrospective, observational, multicenter study, data from epilepsy patients receiving BRV from January 2018 to July 2019 were analyzed. Patients with age ≥16 suffering from any type of epilepsy and having at least one follow up encounter after dose titration were included. 156 consecutive patients were included in the study. The mean age was 40 (16–84 years) and the mean duration of epilepsy was 21 years. Of the 156 patients, 81% were diagnosed with focal-onset seizures, 16% with generalized seizures, while 3% suffered from unclassified seizures. Nine patients received BRV as monotherapy as a switching therapy. At the first follow up visit, seizure cessation was achieved in 56 (36%) patients and the rate of ≥50% responders was 36%. Twenty four patients (15%) remained unchanged; six patients (4%) were recorded with increased seizure frequency, while the remaining 9% had a response of less than 50%. Twenty-six patients (17%) showed clinically significant adverse events, but none were life threatening. Brivaracetam seems to be an effective, easy to use and safe antiepileptic drug in the clinical setting.
Political Islam: A 40 Year Retrospective
Authors: Hashemi Nader
Published: February 2021

The year 2020 roughly corresponds with the 40th anniversary of the rise of political Islam on the world stage. This topic has generated controversy about its impact on Muslims societies and international affairs more broadly, including how governments should respond to this socio-political phenomenon. This article has modest aims. It seeks to reflect on the broad theme of political Islam four decades after it first captured global headlines by critically examining two separate but interrelated controversies. The first theme is political Islam’s acquisition of state power. Specifically, how have the various experiments of Islamism in power effected the popularity, prestige, and future trajectory of political Islam? Secondly, the theme of political Islam and violence is examined. In this section, I interrogate the claim that mainstream political Islam acts as a “gateway drug” to radical extremism in the form of Al Qaeda or ISIS. This thesis gained popularity in recent years, yet its validity is open to question and should be subjected to further scrutiny and analysis. I examine these questions in this article.
Liquidity Synchronization, Its Determinants and Outcomes under Economic Growth Volatility: Evidence from Emerging Asian Economies
Authors: Zaidi Syeda Hina , Rupeika-Apoga Ramona
Published: February 2021

This study investigates the country-level determinants of liquidity synchronization and degrees of liquidity synchronization during economic growth volatility. As a non-diversifiable risk factor, liquidity co-movement shock spreads market-wide and thus disrupts the overall functioning of the financial market. Firms in Asian markets operate in legal and regulatory environments distinct from those of firms analyzed in the previous literature. Comprehensive analyses of liquidity synchronicity in emerging markets are limited. A major knowledge gap pertaining to Asian emerging markets serves as the primary motivation for this study. Seven Asian emerging economies are selected from the MSCI emerging market index: Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan and the Philippines for analysis from 2010 to 2019. The empirical findings show high levels of liquidity synchronicity in weaker economic and financial environments with low GDP growth, high inflation and interest rates and underdeveloped financial systems taking the form of low levels of private credit. Liquidity synchronicity is also affected by poor investor protection, political instability, weak rule of law and government ineffectiveness. Moreover, levels of liquidity synchronicity are higher in a period of economic growth volatility.