bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Magnetic Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Sorbents for Isolation of Parabens from Breast Milk
Authors: Pajewska-Szmyt Martyna , Biniewska Ewelina , Buszewski Bogusław , Gadzała-Kopciuch Renata
Published: September 2020

Magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers (MMIPs) are an invaluable asset in the development of many methods in analytical chemistry, particularly sample preparation. Novel adsorbents based on MMIPs are characterized by high selectivity towards a specific analyte due to the presence of a specific cavity on their polymer surface, enabling the lock–key model interactions to occur. In addition, the magnetic core provides superparamagnetic properties that allow rapid separation of the sorbent from the sample solution. Such a combination of imprinted polymers with a magnetic core has an innovative influence on the development of separation techniques. Hence, the present study describes the synthesis of MMIPs with 17β-estradiol used as a template molecule in the production of imprinted polymers. The as-prepared sorbent was used for a sorption/desorption study of five parabens from breast milk samples. The obtained results were characterized by sorption efficiency exceeding 92%, which shows the high affinity of the analytes to the functional groups on the sorbent. The final determination of the selected analytes was done with high-performance liquid chromatography using a fluorometric detector. The determined linearity ranges for selected parabens were characterized by high determination coefficients (r2 from 0.9992 to 0.9999), and the calculated limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for the identified compounds were low (LOD from 1.1–2.7 ng mL−1; LOQ from 3.6–8.1 ng mL−1), which makes their quantitative analysis in real samples feasible.
Remediation with Semicoke-Preparation, Characterization, and Adsorption Application
Authors: Lartey-Young George , Ma Limin
Published: September 2020

Development of low-cost contaminant sorbents from industrial waste is now an essential aspect of the circular economy since their disposal continues to threaten ecological integrity. Semicoke (SC), a by-product generated in large quantities and described as solid waste from gasification of low-rank coal (LRC), is gaining popularity in line with its reuse capacity in the energy industry but is less explored as a contaminant adsorbent despite its physical and elemental carbon properties. This paper summarizes recent information on SC, sources and production, adsorption mechanism of polluting contaminants, and summarizes regeneration methods capable of yielding sustainability for the material reuse.
Fabrication and Characterization of Oxygenated AlN/4H-SiC Heterojunction Diodes
Authors: Kim Dong-Hyeon , Min Seong-Ji , Oh Jong-Min , Koo Sang-Mo
Published: September 2020

The effects of rapid thermal annealing (RTA) on Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) made from oxygenated aluminum nitride (AlN) thin films deposited on a silicon carbide (SiC) substrate using radio frequency sputtering were investigated. The annealed SBD devices exhibited a 10x increase in the on/off current ratio vs. non-annealed devices for measurement temperatures ranging from 300 K to 450 K. The ideality factor, derived from the current density–voltage (J-V) characterization, increased by a factor of ~2.2 after annealing, whereas the barrier height decreased from ~0.91 to ~0.68 eV. Additionally, Auger electron spectroscopy indicated decreased concentrations of atomic oxygen in the AlN thin film, from ~36% before, to ~24% after annealing. This may have contributed to the reduced barrier height and improved on/off ratio in the annealed AlN/SiC diodes.
A Marine Collagen-Based Biomimetic Hydrogel Recapitulates Cancer Stem Cell Niche and Enhances Progression and Chemoresistance in Human Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Moon SooHyeon , Ok YeJin , Hwang SeonYeong , Lim Ye Seon , Kim Hye-Yoon , Na Yong-Jin , Yoon Sik
Published: September 2020

Recent attention has focused on the development of an effective three-dimensional (3D) cell culture system enabling the rapid enrichment of cancer stem cells (CSCs) that are resistant to therapies and serving as a useful in vitro tumor model that accurately reflects in vivo behaviors of cancer cells. Presently, an effective 3D in vitro model of ovarian cancer (OC) was developed using a marine collagen-based hydrogel. Advantages of the model include simplicity, efficiency, bioactivity, and low cost. Remarkably, OC cells grown in this hydrogel exhibited biochemical and physiological features, including (1) enhanced cell proliferation, migration and invasion, colony formation, and chemoresistance; (2) suppressed apoptosis with altered expression levels of apoptosis-regulating molecules; (3) upregulated expression of crucial multidrug resistance-related genes; (4) accentuated expression of key molecules associated with malignant progression, such as epithelial–mesenchymal transition transcription factors, Notch, and pluripotency biomarkers; and (5) robust enrichment of ovarian CSCs. The findings indicate the potential of our 3D in vitro OC model as an in vitro research platform to study OC and ovarian CSC biology and to screen novel therapies targeting OC and ovarian CSCs.
Actuating Voltage Waveform Optimization of Piezoelectric Inkjet Printhead for Suppression of Residual Vibrations
Authors: Shah Muhammad Ali , Lee Duck-Gyu , Lee Bo Yeon , Kim Nam Woon , An Hyojin , Hur Shin
Published: September 2020

After a piezoelectric inkjet printhead jets the first droplet, the actuating membrane still vibrates, creating residual vibrations in the ink channel, which can degrade the inkjet printhead performance. For suppressing these vibrations, an optimized actuating voltage waveform with two pulses must be obtained, of which the first pulse is used for jetting and the second pulse is used to suppress the residual vibrations. In this study, the pressure history within the ink channel of a recirculating piezoelectric inkjet printhead was first acquired using lumped element modeling. Then, for suppressing residual vibrations, a bipolar voltage waveform was optimized via analysis of the tuning time (tt ), dwell time (td2), rising time (tr2), falling time (tf2), and voltage amplitude of the second pulse. Two voltage waveforms, Waveform 01 and Waveform 02, were optimized thereafter. In Waveform 01, tt=2 μs, td2=2 μs, and tr2 and tf2=1 μs were finalized as the optimal parameters; in the case of another waveform, the optimal parameters of td2, tr2, and tf2 were found to be 4, 1, and 1 μs, respectively. The optimal voltage amplitude of the second pulse was found to be 1/3 the amplitude of the first pulse. On the basis of our analysis, the tuning time in Waveform 01 is the most sensitive parameter, and the performance yielded is even poorer than that yielded by standard waveform, if not optimized. Therefore, the other waveform is recommended for the suppression of residual vibrations.
Recovery of Iron Nanoparticles from Mine Wastewater Using Plant Extracts of Eucalyptus Globulus, Callistemon Viminalis and Persea Americana
Authors: Razanamahandry Lovasoa C. , Nwanya Assumpta C. , Akharame Michael O. , Muhammad Badeggi U. , Ntwampe Seteno K.O. , Fosso-Kankeu Elvis
Published: September 2020

Mine wastewater (MW) is often rich in heavy metals that can have measurable effects on humans. The storage and treatment of MW remains a challenge for most mining companies. Iron (Fe) in MW was removed by using extracts from Eucalyptus globulus (EG); Callistemon viminalis (CV); and Persea americana (AS). Fe was removed from MW samples with an initial concentration of 5.53 mg Fe mL−1; 4.63 mg Fe mL−1 and 4.40 mg Fe mL−1 using EG leaves, CV flowers and AS seed extracts, respectively. Conditions of the MW decontamination were studied by varying the dosage of the plant extracts, the temperature of the medium and the contact time between the MW and the plant extracts. Undiluted plant extracts—which were mixed with the MW and heated at 45 °C for 3 h—gave the highest Fe-removal efficiency for CV (70%) and AS (53%) extracts, respectively. Similarly, EG extracts, albeit heated at 25 °C, showed a higher Fe-removal efficiency (85%) than the CV and AS extracts at low to high temperatures. The residual Fe concentration in the MW was 0.83 mg Fe mL−1, 1.39 mg Fe mL−1 and 2.07 mg Fe mL−1 for EG, CV and AS extracts, respectively. Residue solid-phase deposits from the precipitation reaction of the MW with the plant extracts were collected and analyzed. Fe was among the byproducts detected in the deposited material. The characterization of the annealed solid-phase deposits revealed Fe precipitates as maghemite-C (Fe2O3) and magnetite (FeFe2O4) nanoparticles. Therefore, the MW quality and form were improved, making it reusable for other purposes.
Microbial Interaction with Clay Minerals and Its Environmental and Biotechnological Implications
Authors: Fomina Marina , Skorochod Iryna
Published: September 2020

Clay minerals are very common in nature and highly reactive minerals which are typical products of the weathering of the most abundant silicate minerals on the planet. Over recent decades there has been growing appreciation that the prime involvement of clay minerals in the geochemical cycling of elements and pedosphere genesis should take into account the biogeochemical activity of microorganisms. Microbial intimate interaction with clay minerals, that has taken place on Earth’s surface in a geological time-scale, represents a complex co-evolving system which is challenging to comprehend because of fragmented information and requires coordinated efforts from both clay scientists and microbiologists. This review covers some important aspects of the interactions of clay minerals with microorganisms at the different levels of complexity, starting from organic molecules, individual and aggregated microbial cells, fungal and bacterial symbioses with photosynthetic organisms, pedosphere, up to environmental and biotechnological implications. The review attempts to systematize our current general understanding of the processes of biogeochemical transformation of clay minerals by microorganisms. This paper also highlights some microbiological and biotechnological perspectives of the practical application of clay minerals–microbes interactions not only in microbial bioremediation and biodegradation of pollutants but also in areas related to agronomy and human and animal health.
Design for Sustained Wellbeing through Positive Activities—A Multi-Stage Framework
Authors: Wiese Lisa , Pohlmeyer Anna E. , Hekkert Paul
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we introduce a framework that conceptualizes a multi-stage process through which technology can promote sustained wellbeing. Intentional wellbeing-enhancing activities form the centerpiece linking direct product interaction to, ultimately, wellbeing. The framework was developed following a bottom-up–top-down approach by integrating theoretical knowledge from positive psychology, behavioral science and human–computer interaction (HCI)/design with empirical insights. We outline (a) the framework, (b) its five main stages including their multidisciplinary theoretical foundations, (c) relations between these stages and (d) specific elements that further describe each stage. The paper illustrates how the framework was developed and elaborates three major areas of application: (design) research, design strategies and measurement approaches. With this work, we aim to provide actionable guidance for researchers and IT practitioners to understand and design technologies that foster sustained wellbeing.
Effect of the Albumin Corona on the Toxicity of Combined Graphene Oxide and Cadmium to Daphnia magna and Integration of the Datasets into the NanoCommons Knowledge Base
Authors: Martinez Diego Stéfani T. , Da Silva Gabriela H. , de Medeiros Aline Maria Z. , Khan Latif U. , Papadiamantis Anastasios G. , Lynch Iseult
Published: September 2020

In this work, we evaluated the effect of protein corona formation on graphene oxide (GO) mixture toxicity testing (i.e., co-exposure) using the Daphnia magna model and assessing acute toxicity determined as immobilisation. Cadmium (Cd2+) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) were selected as co-pollutant and protein model system, respectively. Albumin corona formation on GO dramatically increased its colloidal stability (ca. 60%) and Cd2+ adsorption capacity (ca. 4.5 times) in reconstituted water (Daphnia medium). The acute toxicity values (48 h-EC50) observed were 0.18 mg L−1 for Cd2+-only and 0.29 and 0.61 mg L−1 following co-exposure of Cd2+ with GO and BSA@GO materials, respectively, at a fixed non-toxic concentration of 1.0 mg L−1. After coronation of GO with BSA, a reduction in cadmium toxicity of 110 % and 238% was achieved when compared to bare GO and Cd2+-only, respectively. Integration of datasets associated with graphene-based materials, heavy metals and mixture toxicity is essential to enable re-use of the data and facilitate nanoinformatics approaches for design of safer nanomaterials for water quality monitoring and remediation technologies. Hence, all data from this work were annotated and integrated into the NanoCommons Knowledge Base, connecting the experimental data to nanoinformatics platforms under the FAIR data principles and making them interoperable with similar datasets.
Quantitative Study of the Nonlinearly Enhanced Photoacoustic/Photothermal Effect by Strong LSPR-Coupled Nanoassemblies
Authors: Shi Yujiao , Cui Dandan , Zhang Zhenhui
Published: September 2020

The extensive exploration of the collective optical and thermal effects for localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR)-coupled nanoassemblies has propelled much recent research and development in fields of photoacoustic (PA) imaging and photothermal (PT) therapy, while the rational design and proper engineering of these assemblies under quantitative guidance is still a highly challenging task. In this work, by utilizing the finite element analysis (FEA) method and taking gold nanochains as example, the authors quantitatively studied the coupling optical/thermal response of the nanoassemblies and the associated nonlinearly enhanced PA/PT effect. Results show that compared with their individuals, the strong electromagnetic/thermal coupling between the individuals of the nanoassemblies results in a several-time enhancement of the per-particle-weighted optical absorption, consequential thermal field enhancement, and initial PA pressure, resulting in nonlinearly amplified energy conversion from incident light to heat and PA waves. The dependence of the nonlinear PA/PT enhancement on the assembly chain length, the size of the individuals, the interparticle distance, and the size uniformity of the building blocks is quantitatively discussed. PA experiments on gold nanochains and gold nanospheres are performed to validate the proposition, and the experiments well silhouetted the theoretical discussion. This work paves the way for the rational construction and optimization of plasmonic nanoassemblies with improved PA/PT conversion efficiency.
Synthesizing CuO/CeO2/ZnO Ternary Nano-Photocatalyst with Highly Effective Utilization of Photo-Excited Carriers under Sunlight
Authors: Luo Kaiyi , Li Jing , Hu Wenyu , Li Han , Zhang Qiuping , Yuan Huan , Yu Fei , Xu Ming , Xu Shuyan
Published: September 2020

The construction of heterostructured photocatalyst with an appropriate energy band structure will help realize highly efficient photo-excited charge separation. In this study, ternary CuO/CeO2/ZnO nano-particle (NP) composites were synthesized by a facile two-step sol-gel method, which exhibit significantly enhanced photocatalytic degradation performance for various organic pollutants under UV and visible light excitation. The photo-responses to both UV and visible light, as well as the visible light absorption and utilization rates of ZnO are found to be synergistically intensified by CeO2 and CuO co-coupling. The first-order kinetic constants (K) of 3%CuO/CeO2/ZnO for methylene blue (MB) degradation are ~3.9, ~4.1 and ~4.8 times higher than ZnO under UV light, visible light and simulated sunlight illumination, respectively. The roles of CuO and CeO2 in optical properties and photo-degradation under UV and visible light were explored. Besides, the photogenic holes (h+) of ZnO, CeO2, and the produced hydroxyl radicals (·OH) are proved to be the main active species under UV light. Dissimilarly, under visible light, the superoxide radicals (·O2−) formed by the reactions between oxygen molecules and the photo-generated electrons (e−) of CuO moving towards the catalysts surface are also found to be important for promoting dye decomposition. The improved photo-responses, the well-matched band structure that facilitates charge transfer processes, and the highly efficient utilization of the photo-excited carriers of the ternary nano-heterostructure are suggested to be the key factors for the remarkable enhancement of photocatalytic performance of ZnO nano-photocatalyst. This work offers a low-cost strategy to acquire highly active UV and visible light-driven photocatalyst.
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 and Agave Inulin in Children with Cerebral Palsy and Chronic Constipation: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: García Contreras Andrea , Vásquez Garibay Edgar , Sánchez Ramírez Carmen , Fafutis Morris Mary , Delgado Rizo Vidal
Published: September 2020

The main objective was to assess the efficacy of a probiotic (Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938), a prebiotic (agave inulin), and a synbiotic on the stool characteristics in children with cerebral palsy and chronic constipation. Thirty-seven children with cerebral palsy and chronic constipation were included. The probiotic group received 1 × 108 colony forming unit (cfu) of L. reuteri DSM 17938 plus placebo, the prebiotic group received 4 g of agave inulin plus placebo, the synbiotic group received L. reuteri DSM 17938 plus agave inulin, and the placebo group received two placebos for 28 days. The probiotic group showed a significant decrease in stool pH (p = 0.014). Stool consistency improved in the prebiotic group (p = 0.008). The probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic groups showed a significant improvement in the history of excessive stool retention, the presence of fecal mass in the rectum, and the history of painful defecation. L. reuteri concentration in feces was higher in the probiotic group than in the placebo group (p = 0.001) and showed an inverse correlation with stool pH in the probiotic group (r = −0.762, p = 0.028). This study showed that the use of L. reuteri DSM 17938 and/or agave inulin improved the stool characteristics such as the history of painful defecation and the presence of fecal mass in the rectum against placebo in children with cerebral palsy and chronic constipation.
Obese Older Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients with Muscle Insulin Resistance Benefit from an Enriched Protein Drink during Combined Lifestyle Intervention: The PROBE Study
Authors: Pasman Wilrike J. , Memelink Robert G. , de Vogel-Van den Bosch Johan , Begieneman Mark P. V. , van den Brink Willem J. , Weijs Peter J. M. , Wopereis Suzan
Published: September 2020

(1) Background: Recent research showed that subtypes of patients with type 2 diabetes may differ in response to lifestyle interventions based on their organ-specific insulin resistance (IR). (2) Methods: 123 Subjects with type 2 diabetes were randomized into 13-week lifestyle intervention, receiving either an enriched protein drink (protein+) or an isocaloric control drink (control). Before and after the intervention, anthropometrical and physiological data was collected. An oral glucose tolerance test was used to calculate indices representing organ insulin resistance (muscle, liver, and adipose tissue) and β-cell functioning. In 82 study-compliant subjects (per-protocol), we retrospectively examined the intervention effect in patients with muscle IR (MIR, n = 42) and without MIR (no-MIR, n = 40). (3) Results: Only in patients from the MIR subgroup that received protein+ drink, fasting plasma glucose and insulin, whole body, liver and adipose IR, and appendicular skeletal muscle mass improved versus control. Lifestyle intervention improved body weight and fat mass in both subgroups. Furthermore, for the MIR subgroup decreased systolic blood pressure and increased VO2peak and for the no-MIR subgroup, a decreased 2-h glucose concentration was found. (4) Conclusions: Enriched protein drink during combined lifestyle intervention seems to be especially effective on increasing muscle mass and improving insulin resistance in obese older, type 2 diabetes patients with muscle IR.
Nutritional Aspects of Commercially Available Complementary Foods in New Zealand Supermarkets
Authors: Padarath Shanjivan , Gerritsen Sarah , Mackay Sally
Published: September 2020

Optimal nutrition in early childhood fosters growth and development whilst preventing morbidity and mortality in later life. There is little research in New Zealand on commercially available complementary foods (CACFs). This cross-sectional study of the nutritional aspects and packaging of CACFs used data collected in four major supermarket chains in New Zealand in 2019 (Nutritrack). Of the 197 CACFs analysed, 43 (21.8%) were inappropriately recommended for consumption by children four months of age or older, 10 (5.1%) had added salt, and 67 (34.0%) contained free sugars. The majority (n = 136, 69.0%) contained ingredients with a sweet flavour. Relatively sweet vegetables like carrot and sweetcorn were used more often than bitter vegetables such as broccoli and spinach. The described texture of most (n = 145, 62.1%) wet ‘spoonable’ products was of the lowest complexity (smooth, puréed, custard). CACFs would adequately expose children to cow’s milk and wheat but not to other common food allergens (cooked hen’s egg, soy, fish, crustacean shellfish, peanut, and tree-nuts). If children’s diets include CACFs, non-commercial meals must be offered as well in order to meet nutritional guidelines related to the introduction of common food allergens, diversity of flavours, and complex textures for infants and toddlers.
Quality-of-Life Evaluation in Coeliac Patients on a Gluten-Free Diet
Authors: Marsilio Ilaria , Canova Cristina , D’Odorico Anna , Ghisa Matteo , Zingone Letizia , Lorenzon Greta , Savarino Edoardo Vincenzo , Zingone Fabiana
Published: September 2020

The treatment for coeliac disease (CD) has a considerable psychological impact on patients, which may vary depending on subjects and clinical characteristics. The aim of this study was to describe the quality of life (QoL) in CD patients during follow-up, evaluating which factors can influence it. Patients with CD who consecutively visited the outpatient clinic of CD Unit of the University Hospital of Padua from January to September 2019 were enrolled. Demographics and clinical information were collected, and all patients were asked to answer the CD-QoL and Biagi’s validated questionnaires. Student’s t-test and chi-square test were used to compare the continuous and categorical variables, respectively. One hundred patients were enrolled (86 females, mean age at test ± SD: 39.73 ± 13.51; mean age at diagnosis ± SD: 33.09 ± 12.92), with 61% of them having been diagnosed with CD within the previous 5 years. At the time of diagnosis, 43 CD patients reported classical CD presentation, 32 non-classical features, 16 only anaemia and 9 were asymptomatic. The mean CD-QoL value was overall high (80.54 ± 11.91). We found that the “health concerns” subscale score was significantly lower in subjects aged more than 35 years compared to younger subjects (p = 0.03). We also observed that the CD-QoL score in gluten-free diet (GFD)-adherent patients tended to be higher compared to subjects who were non-compliant, with a significantly higher percentage of patients with low score for the “dysphoria” subscale (p = 0.05). This study showed an overall good QoL in subjects on a GFD. However, subjects older and non-compliant to GFD appear to experience more health concerns and suffer from dysphoria, respectively.
Influence of Nutritional Intake of Carbohydrates on Mitochondrial Structure, Dynamics, and Functions during Adipogenesis
Authors: Delcourt Manon , Tagliatti Vanessa , Delsinne Virginie , Colet Jean-Marie , Declèves Anne-Emilie
Published: September 2020

Obesity is an alarming yet increasing phenomenon worldwide, and more effective obesity management strategies have become essential. In addition to the numerous anti-adipogenic treatments promising a restauration of a healthy white adipose tissue (WAT) function, numerous studies reported on the critical role of nutritional parameters in obesity development. In a metabolic disorder context, a better control of nutrient intake is a key step in slowing down adipogenesis and therefore obesity. Of interest, the effect on WAT remodeling deserves deeper investigations. Among the different actors of WAT plasticity, the mitochondrial network plays a central role due to its dynamics and essential cellular functions. Hence, the present in vitro study, conducted on the 3T3-L1 cell line, aimed at evaluating the incidence of modulating the carbohydrates intake on adipogenesis through an integrated assessment of mitochondrial structure, dynamics, and functions-correlated changes. For this purpose, our experimental strategy was to compare the occurrence of adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells cultured either in a high-glucose (HG) medium (25 mM) or in a low-glucose (LG) medium (5 mM) supplemented with equivalent galactose (GAL) levels (20 mM). The present LG-GAL condition was associated, in differentiating adipocytes, to a reduced lipid droplet network, lower expressions of early and late adipogenic genes and proteins, an increased mitochondrial network with higher biogenesis marker expression, an equilibrium in the mitochondrial fusion/fission pattern, and a decreased expression of mitochondrial metabolic overload protein markers. Therefore, those main findings show a clear effect of modulating glucose accessibility on 3T3-L1 adipogenesis through a combined effect of adipogenesis modulation and overall improvement of the mitochondrial health status. This nutritional approach offers promising opportunities in the control and prevention of obesity.
What Dimensions of Risk Perception are Associated with Avoidance of Buying Processed Foods with Warning Labels?
Authors: Adasme-Berríos Cristian , Aliaga-Ortega Luis , Schnettler Berta , Sánchez Mercedes , Pinochet Consuelo , Lobos Germán
Published: September 2020

Nutritional Warning Labels (NWLs) inform consumers about processed foods that exceed critical nutrient levels activating the risk perception in consumers. However, this information is limited. The objective was to identify the dimensions of risk perception and to study their associations with avoidance of buying processed foods with warning labels. A survey was applied to 807 decision-makers who choose what to eat at home. The four dimensions of risk perception (performance, financial, physical, and psychological) were identified through exploratory factor analysis. Through a multiple regression model, we determined the dimensions of risk perception and sociodemographic variables that affect the intention to avoid buying processed foods with NWLs. The results show that the performance risk, physical risk, and psychological risk positively affect the intention of avoiding processed foods with NWLs. In addition, the female gender considers NWLs to purchase foods. Nevertheless, the high frequency of consumption and belonging to a lower-income socioeconomic group are barriers to the use of NWLs. In conclusion, NWLs help people to choose processed food that does not impact negatively their food expectations, as well as their mental and physical health. However, health authorities must invest in nutrition education. Specifically, in groups who pay less attention to NWLs. Such groups include people with high daily consumption of processed foods, males, and low-income socioeconomic groups.
Development and Optimization of In-house ELISA for Detection of Human IgG Antibody to SARS-CoV-2 Full Length Spike Protein
Authors: Alandijany Thamir A. , El-Kafrawy Sherif A. , Tolah Ahmed M. , Sohrab Sayed S. , Faizo Arwa A. , Hassan Ahmed M. , Alsubhi Tagreed L. , Othman Norah A. , Azhar Esam I.
Published: September 2020

The ongoing coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), poses a threat to human health. Despite this, many affected countries are now in the process of gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions that were initially implemented in response to the pandemic. The success of the so-called “exit strategy” requires continued surveillance of virus circulation in the community and evaluation of the prevalence of protective immunity among population. Serology tests are valuable tools for these purposes. Herein, SARS-CoV-2 full-length spike (S) recombinant protein was utilized to develop and optimize an indirect enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) that enables a reliable detection of virus-specific IgG antibody in human sera. Importantly, the performance of this assay was evaluated utilizing micro-neutralization (MN) assay as a reference test. Our developed ELISA offers 100% sensitivity, 98.4% specificity, 98.8% agreement, and high overall accuracy. Moreover, the optical density (OD) values of positive samples significantly correlated with their MN titers. The assay specifically detects human IgG antibodies directed against SARS-CoV-2, but not those to Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) or human coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1). The availability of this in-house ELISA protocol would be valuable for various diagnostic and epidemiological applications.
Pharmacological Modulation of Blood–Brain Barrier Permeability by Kinin Analogs in Normal and Pathologic Conditions
Authors: Sikpa Dina , Whittingstall Lisa , Savard Martin , Lebel Réjean , Côté Jérôme , McManus Stephen , Chemtob Sylvain , Fortin David , Lepage Martin , Gobeil Fernand
Published: September 2020

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a major obstacle to the development of effective diagnostics and therapeutics for brain cancers and other central nervous system diseases. Peptide agonist analogs of kinin B1 and B2 receptors, acting as BBB permeabilizers, have been utilized to overcome this barrier. The purpose of the study was to provide new insights for the potential utility of kinin analogs as brain drug delivery adjuvants. In vivo imaging studies were conducted in various animal models (primary/secondary brain cancers, late radiation-induced brain injury) to quantify BBB permeability in response to kinin agonist administrations. Results showed that kinin B1 (B1R) and B2 receptors (B2R) agonists increase the BBB penetration of chemotherapeutic doxorubicin to glioma sites, with additive effects when applied in combination. B2R agonist also enabled extravasation of high-molecular-weight fluorescent dextrans (155 kDa and 2 MDa) in brains of normal mice. Moreover, a systemic single dose of B2R agonist did not increase the incidence of metastatic brain tumors originating from circulating breast cancer cells. Lastly, B2R agonist promoted the selective delivery of co-injected diagnostic MRI agent Magnevist in irradiated brain areas, depicting increased vascular B2R expression. Altogether, our findings suggest additional evidence for using kinin analogs to facilitate specific access of drugs to the brain.
Peptide-Based TNF-α-Binding Decoy Therapy Mitigates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Chang Chao-Yuan , Hsu Hao-Jen , Foo Jossen , Shih Hung-Jen , Huang Chun-Jen
Published: September 2020

A peptide named SEM18, possessing structural similarity to the binding site of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α to TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1), was designed. We investigated whether the SEM18 peptide can mitigate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced liver injury in mice. Adult male Balb/cJ mice received LPS (15 mg/kg; LPS group) or LPS plus SEM18 (LSEM group). Control groups were run simultaneously. At 2 h after LPS, the first dose of SEM18 (0.3 mg/kg) was administered, followed by three supplemental doses of SEM18 (0.15 mg/kg, every 2 h). At 24 h after LPS, surviving mice were euthanized for analyses. Compared with the LPS group, binding of TNF-α to TNFR1 in liver tissues was significantly lower in the LSEM group (p < 0.001). Plasma concentrations of aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase, as well as Suzuki’s scores (liver damage assessment), wet/dry weight ratios, levels of polymorphonuclear neutrophil infiltration, and levels of mitochondrial injury in liver tissues, of the LSEM group were significantly lower than in the LPS group (all p < 0.05). Levels of necroptosis, pyroptosis, apoptosis, and autophagy upregulation in liver tissues in the LSEM group were also significantly lower than in the LPS group (all p < 0.05). Notably, exogenous TNF-α counteracted these effects of SEM18. SEM18 peptide mitigates LPS-induced liver injury in mice.
Self-Assembled Cationic-Covered Nanoemulsion as A Novel Biocompatible Immunoadjuvant for Antiserum Production Against Tityus serrulatus Scorpion Venom
Authors: Medeiros Arthur Sérgio Avelino de , Torres-Rêgo Manoela , Lacerda Ariane Ferreira , Rocha Hugo Alexandre Oliveira , Egito Eryvaldo Sócrates Tabosa do , Cornélio Alianda Maira , Tambourgi Denise V. , Fernandes-Pedrosa Matheus de Freitas , da Silva-Júnior Arnóbio Antônio
Published: September 2020

This study assesses the efficacy of different nanoemulsion formulations as new and innovative adjuvants for improving the in vivo immunization against the Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom. Nanoemulsions were designed testing key-variables such as surfactants, co-solvents, and the influence of the temperature, which would be able to induce the phase transition from a liquid crystal to a stable nanoemulsion, assessed for four months. Additionally, cationic-covered nanoemulsion with hyper-branched poly(ethyleneimine) was prepared and its performance was compared to the non-cationic ones. The physicochemical properties of the selected nanoemulsions and the interactions among their involved formulation compounds were carefully monitored. The cytotoxicity studies in murine macrophages (RAW 264.7) and red blood cells were used to compare different formulations. Moreover, the performance of the nanoemulsion systems as biocompatible adjuvants was evaluated using mice immunization protocol. The FTIR shifts and the zeta potential changes (from −18.3 ± 1.0 to + 8.4 ± 1.4) corroborated with the expected supramolecular anchoring of venom proteins on the surface of the nanoemulsion droplets. Cell culture assays demonstrated the non-toxicity of the formulations at concentrations less than 1.0 mg/mL, which were able to inhibit the hemolytic effect of the scorpion venom. The cationic-covered nanoemulsion has shown superior adjuvant activity, revealing the highest IgG titer in the immunized animals compared to both the non-cationic counterpart and the traditional aluminum adjuvant. In this approach, we demonstrate the incredible potential application of nanoemulsions as adjuvants, using a nanotechnology platform for antigen delivery system on immune cells. Additionally, the functionalization with hyper-branched poly(ethyleneimine) enhances this recognition and improves its action in immunization.
Infestation of Field Dodder (Cuscuta campestris Yunck.) Promotes Changes in Host Dry Weight and Essential Oil Production in Two Aromatic Plants, Peppermint and Chamomile
Authors: Sarić-Krsmanović Marija , Dragumilo Ana , Gajić Umiljendić Jelena , Radivojević Ljiljana , Šantrić Ljiljana , Đurović-Pejčev Rada
Published: September 2020

Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) and chamomile (Chamomilla recutita (L.) Rausch.) are aromatic plants with considerable economic value. These plants and their essential oils are used in medicine, cosmetics, and the food industry. One of the main limiting factors in peppermint and chamomile commercial cultivation is weed competition since weeds are able to decrease both oil amount and biomass yield. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of parasitism by field dodder (Cuscuta campestris Yunck.) on peppermint and chamomile dry weight and their essential oil yield and composition. Essential oils from both noninfested and infested peppermint and chamomile plants were obtained by hydrodistillation and characterized chemically by gas chromatography (GC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS). The amount of dry matter accumulated by peppermint and chamomile plants infested by field dodder was lower (25% and 63%, respectively) compared to noninfested plants. Essential oil yield increased for peppermint (3.87% (v/w) and 3.63% (v/w)), but decreased for chamomile (0.2% (v/w) and 0.5% (v/w)) both from infested and noninfested plants, respectively. The oil composition profile significantly differed in terms of content. In peppermint plants, field dodder infestation increased menthone content by 23%, and decreased the content of both menthol by 11% and pulegone by 67%. Furthermore, δ-cadinene was detected only in oil extracted from infested peppermint plants. Compared to peppermint, chamomile plants were significantly more affected by field dodder in terms of essential oil yield, as well as oil composition and plant dry weight. In chamomile plants, (E)-dendrolasin was detected in the oil of noninfested plants, and 1,4-dimethyl-7-(1-methylethyl)-azulen-2-ol was detected only in the oil of infested plants.
The Effect of Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb Accumulation on Biochemical Parameters (Proline, Chlorophyll) in the Water Caltrop (Trapa natans L.), Lake Skadar, Montenegro
Authors: Petrovic Dragana , Krivokapic Sladjana
Published: September 2020

The aim of the present study is to investigate the bioaccumulation and translocation of various heavy metals, notably copper, zinc, cadmium and lead, in the different plant organs of Trapa natans L. (the root, stem, and leaf) at nine sampling locations, as well as examining the variability in proline accumulation and chlorophyll content due to these heavy metals. Our analysis shows the existence of a statistically significant positive correlation (r = 0.75; p < 0.05) between the Zn content and the accumulation of proline in the root of the examined species. On the other hand, a statistically significant negative correlation was registered between the content of chlorophyll a and the concentration of Zn in the leaf (r = −0.68; p < 0.05). This indicates that Trapa natans L. can be used in biomonitoring Zn-polluted aquatic ecosystems using proline and chlorophyll as sensitive biomarkers.
Potential Effects of Essential Oils Extracted from Mediterranean Aromatic Plants on Target Weeds and Soil Microorganisms
Authors: Jouini Amira , Verdeguer Mercedes , Pinton Samuele , Araniti Fabrizio , Palazzolo Eristanna , Badalucco Luigi , Laudicina Vito Armando
Published: September 2020

Essential oils (EOs), extracted from aromatic plants, have been proposed as candidates to develop natural herbicides. This study aimed to evaluate the herbicidal potential of Thymbra capitata (L.) Cav., Mentha × piperita L. and Santolina chamaecyparissus L. essential oils (EOs) on Avena fatua L., Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv, Portulaca oleracea L. and Amaranthus retroflexus L. and their effects on soil microorganisms. A pot experiment was set up and three EOs at three doses were applied by irrigation. Efficacy and effects of EOs on weed growth were determined. Soil microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen, microbial respiration, and the main microbial groups were determined at days 7, 28 and 56. EOs demonstrated herbicidal activity, increasing their toxicity with the dose. T. capitata was the most effective against all weeds at the maximum dose. P. oleracea was the most resistant weed. Soil microorganisms, after a transient upheaval period induced by the addition of EOs, recovered their initial function and biomass. T. capitata EO at the highest dose did not allow soil microorganisms to recover their initial functionality. EOs exhibited great potential as natural herbicides but the optimum dose of application must be identified to control weeds and not negatively affect soil microorganisms.
Fabrication and Characterization of Electrospun Membranes Based on “Poly(ε-caprolactone)”, “Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)” and Their Blend for Tunable Drug Delivery of Curcumin
Authors: Gorrasi Giuliana , Longo Raffaele , Viscusi Gianluca
Published: September 2020

Membranes based on poly(ε-caprolactone)/poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) blends (PCL/PHB at 50 wt%) were obtained by electrospinning and curcumin encapsulated at 1 wt% as active agent, as drug delivery systems for biomedical applications. PCL and PHB were also separately electrospinned and loaded with 1 wt% of curcumin. The processing parameters of PHB were drastically different from PCL and the blend PCL/PHB; in fact, the temperature used was 40 °C, and the distance injector–collector was 28 cm. Different conditions were used for PCL: lower temperature (i.e., 25 °C) and shorter distance injector–collector (i.e., 18 cm). The blend was processed in the same conditions of PCL. The fibers obtained with PHB showed diameters in the order of magnitude of micron (i.e., ≈ 3.45 µm), while the PCL mats is composed of fiber of nanometric dimensions (i.e., ≈ 340 nm). PCL/PHB blend allowed to obtain nanometric fibers (i.e., ≈520 nm). Same trend of results was obtained for the fibers’ porosity. The morphology, thermal, mechanical and barrier properties (sorption and diffusion) through water vapor were evaluated on all the electrospun fibers, as well as the release behavior of curcumin, and correlated to the processing parameter and the fibers’ morphologies.
Curing Behavior, Rheological, and Thermal Properties of DGEBA Modified with Synthesized BPA/PEG Hyperbranched Epoxy after Their Photo-Initiated Cationic Polymerization
Authors: Boonlert-uthai Tossapol , Taki Kentaro , Somwangthanaroj Anongnat
Published: September 2020

This paper investigates the photo-initiated cationic polymerization of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) modified with bisphenol A (BPA)/polyethylene glycol (PEG) hyperbranched epoxy resin. The relationship between curing behavior, rheological, and thermal properties of the modified DGEBA is investigated using photo-differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and photo-rheometer techniques. It is seen that the addition of the hyperbranched epoxy resin can increase UV conversion (αUV) and reduce gelation time (tgel). After photo-initiation polymerization (dark reaction) occurred, a second exothermic peak in the DSC thermogram takes place: namely, the occurrence of curing reaction owing to the activated monomer (AM) mechanism. Consequently, the glass transition temperature decreased, and at the same time, UV intensity increased which was due to the molecular weight between crosslinking points (Mc). Furthermore, the radius of gyration (Rg) of the network segment is determined via small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). It is noted that the higher the Mc, the larger the radius of gyration proves to be, resulting in low glass transition temperature.
Variations in Wettability and Interfacial Tension during Alkali–Polymer Application for High and Low TAN Oils
Authors: Arekhov Vladislav , Hincapie Rafael E. , Clemens Torsten , Tahir Muhammad
Published: September 2020

The injection of chemicals into sandstones can lead to alterations in wettability, where oil characteristics such as the TAN (total acid number) may determine the wetting state of the reservoir. By combining the spontaneous imbibition principle and the evaluation of interfacial tension index, we propose a workflow and comprehensive assessment to evaluate the wettability alteration and interfacial tension (IFT) when injecting chemical-enhanced oil-recovery (EOR) agents. This study examines the effects on wettability alteration due to the application of alkaline and polymer solutions (separately) and the combined alkali–polymer solution. The evaluation focused on comparing the effects of chemical agent injections on wettability and IFT due to core aging (non-aged, water-wet and aged, and neutral to oil-wet), brine composition (mono vs. divalent ions); core mineralogy (~2.5% and ~10% clay), and crude oil type (low and high TAN). Amott experiments were performed on cleaned water-wet core plugs as well as on samples with a restored oil-wet state. IFT experiments were compared for a duration of 300 min. Data were gathered from 48 Amott imbibition experiments with duplicates. The IFT and baselines were defined in each case for brine, polymer, and alkali for each set of experiments. When focusing on the TAN and aging effects, it was observed that in all cases, the early time production was slower and the final oil recovery was longer when compared to the values for non-aged core plugs. These data confirm the change in rock surface wettability towards a more oil-wet state after aging and reverse the wettability alteration due to chemical injections. Furthermore, the application of alkali with high TAN oil resulted in a low equilibrium IFT. By contrast, alkali alone failed to mobilize trapped low TAN oil but caused wettability alteration and a neutral–wet state of the aged core plugs. For the brine composition, the presence of divalent ions promoted water-wetness of the non-aged core plugs and oil-wetness of the aged core plugs. Divalent ions act as bridges between the mineral surface and polar compound of the in situ created surfactant, thereby accelerating wettability alteration. Finally, for mineralogy effects, the high clay content core plugs were shown to be more oil-wet even without aging. Following aging, a strongly oil-wet behavior was exhibited. The alkali–polymer is demonstrated to be efficient in the wettability alteration of oil-wet core plugs towards a water-wet state.
Hemoglobin-Conjugated Gold Nanoclusters for Qualitative Analysis of Haptoglobin Phenotypes
Authors: Tan Shih-Hua , Yougbaré Sibidou , Chu Hsueh-Liang , Kuo Tsung-Rong , Cheng Tsai-Mu
Published: September 2020

Designing a facile and rapid detection method for haptoglobin (Hp) phenotypes in human blood plasma is urgently needed to meet clinic requirements in hemolysis theranostics. In this work, a novel approach to qualitatively analyze Hp phenotypes was developed using a fluorescent probe of gold nanoclusters (AuNCs). Hemoglobin-conjugated (Hb)-AuNCs were successfully synthesized with blue-green fluorescence and high biocompatibility via one-pot synthesis. The fluorescence of Hb-AuNCs comes from the ligand-metal charge transfer between surface ligands of Hb and the gold cores with high oxidation states. The biocompatibility assays including cell viability and fluorescence imaging, demonstrated high biocompatibility of Hb-AuNCs. For the qualitative analysis, three Hp phenotypes in plasma, Hp 1-1, Hp 2-1, and Hp 2-2, were successfully discriminated according to changes in the fluorescence intensity and peak position of the maximum intensity of Hb-AuNCs. Our work provides a practical method with facile and rapid properties for the qualitative analysis of three Hp phenotypes in human blood plasma.
Religious/Spiritual Referrals in Hospice and Palliative Care
Authors: Pentaris Panagiotis , Tripathi Khyati
Published: September 2020

This study examines the religious/spiritual referral patterns in hospice and palliative care. Religion and death are two highly intersected topics and albeit often discussed together in hospice and palliative care, little is known about how professionals respond to religious/spiritual needs of patients/families/friends and in relation to the chaplaincy team. By means of an in-depth interviewing method, this paper reports on data from 15 hospice and palliative care professionals. Participants were recruited from across five hospice and palliative care organisations, and the data was managed and analysed with the use of NVivo. Largely, participants were keen to refer patients/families/friends to the chaplaincy team, unless the former’s faith or lack thereof did not match the chaplains, in which case referrals to a religious leader in the community were favoured. This shed light to the tendencies to homogenise religious/spiritual beliefs. The paper concludes with some implications for practice and research.