bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibacterial and Immunosuppressive Effects of a Novel Marine Brown Alga-Derived Ester in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Kim Hyun Soo , Ahn Jeong Won , Ha Na Reum , Damodar Kongara , Jang Su Kil , Yoo Yeong-Min , Gyoung Young Soo , Joo Seong Soo
Published: July 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic skin condition that is characterized by dysregulated immune responses and a heightened risk of Staphylococcus aureus infections, necessitating the advancement of innovative therapeutic methods. This study explored the potential of (6Z,9Z,12Z,15Z)-(2R,3R,4R,5R)-2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexyl octadeca-6,9,12,15-tetraenoate (HSN-S1), a compound derived from the marine alga Hizikia fusiformis, which shows anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties. HSN-S1 was isolated and characterized using advanced chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. Its efficacy was evaluated via in vitro assays with keratinocytes, macrophages, and T cells to assess cytokine suppression and its immunomodulatory effects; its antibacterial activity against S. aureus was quantified. The in vivo effectiveness was validated using a 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-induced AD mouse model that focused on skin pathology and cytokine modulation. HSN-S1 significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion, altered T-helper cell cytokine profiles, and showed strong antibacterial activity against S. aureus. In vivo, HSN-S1 alleviated AD-like symptoms in mice and reduced skin inflammation, transepidermal water loss, serum immunoglobulin-E levels, and Th2/Th17 cytokine outputs. These findings suggest HSN-S1 to be a promising marine-derived candidate for AD treatment, as it offers a dual-target approach that could overcome the limitations of existing therapies, hence warranting further clinical investigation.
Bioresorbable Scaffold Use in Coronary Chronic Total Occlusions: A Long-Term, Single-Center Follow-Up Study
Authors: Sondore Dace , Briede Ieva , Linde Matiss , Trusinskis Karlis , Narbute Inga , Jegere Sanda , Lismanis Aigars , Kumsars Indulis , Grikis Karlis , Strazdins Uldis , Erglis Andrejs
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of chronic total occlusion (CTO) is often associated with longer total stent length. Our aim was to evaluate the long-term safety and effectiveness of bioresorbable scaffold (BRS) implantation in CTO to avoid using a full metal jacket. Materials and Methods: We conducted a single-center prospective longitudinal case study including 34 patients who underwent PCI of CTO with at least one BRS and drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation (n = 27) or BRS-only at the Latvian Centre of Cardiology between 2016 and 2018. Quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) and intravascular ultrasound were performed during the index procedure and long-term follow-up. Results: Of 34 patients with a mean age of 60.6 ± 9.5 years, 76.5% were male. The most common CTO artery was the right coronary artery (73.5%, n = 25). The median length of occlusion was 23.0 mm (interquartile range (IQR) = 13.9–32.7), with a total mean BRS/DES length of 49.6 ± 20.4 mm. During the median follow-up of 5.6 years (IQR = 5.0–5.9), the primary endpoint of target vessel re-occlusion occurred in 5.9% (n = 2) of patients. Target lesion revascularization (TLR) was performed in 35.3% (n = 12) of patients, with a mean time to TLR of 62.5 (95% confidence interval (CI), 53.9–71.2) months. Through QCA, there was a statistically significant increase in median residual diameter stenosis (20.1–31.4%, p < 0.01) and residual length of stenosis (5.2–7.1%, p = 0.04) compared with the index procedure. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that BRS is a safe and feasible option for PCI of CTO, allowing for the avoidance of long segment stenting and ensuring long-term patency of the coronary artery.
A Representation of Metastatic Plasma Cell Myeloma as an Uncommonly Shaped Liver Tumor—A Case Report
Authors: Skołozdrzy Tomasz , Wojciechowski Jan , Gural Mateusz , Kaniewska Agata , Miernik Maciej , Romanowski Maciej
Published: July 2024

The presence of an oval-shaped lesion in the liver is mainly associated with either primary liver cancer or metastatic disease from another malignancy. However, we present the case of a 62-year-old patient diagnosed with plasma cell myeloma, which reveals that these kinds of lesions can also be found during the course of this disease. Rarity and non-specificity make this a very challenging diagnosis for radiologists. It involves a special alert from the doctors taking care of the patient. Biopsy may sometimes be necessary to make a correct diagnosis. It is significant to ensure that the correct treatment is implemented and that the patient is not exposed to the unnecessary diagnosis of another neoplastic disease.
A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Analysis of Viral SARI in Pregnant Women in Southern Brazil
Authors: Lissa Sonia Maria , Lapinski Bruna Amaral , Graf Maria Ester , Reda Somaia , Debur Maria do Carmo , Presibella Mayra , Pereira Luciane Aparecida , de Carvalho Newton Sérgio , Carvalho de Oliveira Jaqueline , Raboni Sonia Mara , Nogueira Meri Bordignon
Published: July 2024

Pregnant women (PW) are at a higher risk of diseases and hospitalization from viral respiratory infections, particularly influenza and SARS-CoV-2, due to cardiopulmonary and immunological changes. This study assessed the impact of viral respiratory infections on PW hospitalized with severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a cross-sectional study with 42 PW and 85 non-pregnant women (NPW) admitted with SARI to two tertiary hospitals between January 2015 and December 2019. The rates of virus prevalence, SARI hospitalization, length of hospital stay, oxygen supplementation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and death were comparable between PW and NPW. A multivariate analysis showed that PW had a higher rate of viral SARI hospitalizations (OR = 2.37; 95% CI = 1.02–5.48) as compared to NPW, with the influenza virus being the most prevalent (aOR = 7.58; 95% CI = 1.53–37.66). The length of hospital stays (aOR = 0.83; 95% CI = 0.73–0.95) and admissions to the ICU (aOR = 0.028; 95% CI = 0.004–0.25) were lower in PW as compared to hospitalized NPW. The influenza virus had a greater impact on the frequency of SARI in the group of PW, and these had a better outcome than NPW due to the earlier antiviral treatment they received.
Identification of Biomarkers Associated with Phyllosticta citricarpa Tolerance
Authors: Tswaai Puseletso O. J. , Augustyn Wilma A. , Regnier Thierry , du Plooy Wilma
Published: July 2024

Citrus black spot (CBS) is a fungal disease caused by Phyllosticta citricarpa Kiely, (McAlpine Van der Aa), with most cultivars being susceptible to infection. Currently, disease control is based on the application of protective fungicides, which is restricted due to resistance, health and environmental concerns. Although using natural products for disease management is gaining momentum, more advances are required. This study obtained the metabolic profiles of the essential oil and cuticular waxes of two citrus cultivars with a varying susceptibility to CBS infection using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. A multivariate data analysis identified possible biomarker compounds that contributed to the difference in susceptibility between the two cultivars. Several identified biomarkers were tested in vitro for their antifungal properties against P. citricarpa. Two biomarkers, propanoic acid and linalool, were able to completely inhibit pathogen growth at 750 mg/L and 2000 mg/L, respectively.
Chemical Structure and Thermal Properties versus Accelerated Aging of Bio-Based Poly(ether-urethanes) with Modified Hard Segments
Authors: Godlewska Julia , Smorawska Joanna , Głowińska Ewa
Published: July 2024

Aging of polymers is a natural process that occurs during their usage and storage. Predicting the lifetime of polymers is a crucial aspect that should be considered at the design stage. In this paper, a series of bio-based thermoplastic poly(ether-urethane) elastomers (bio-TPUs) with modified hard segments were synthesized and investigated to understand the structural and property changes triggered by accelerated aging. The bio-TPUs were synthesized at an equimolar ratio of reagents using the prepolymer method with the use of bio-based poly(trimethylene ether) glycol, bio-based 1,3-propanediol, and hexamethylene diisocyanate or hexamethylene diisocyanate/partially bio-based diisocyanate mixtures. The polymerization reaction was catalyzed by dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL). The structural and property changes after accelerated aging under thermal and hydrothermal conditions were determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA). Among other findings, it was observed that both the reference and aged bio-TPUs decomposed in two main stages and exhibited thermal stability up to approximately 300 °C. Based on the research conducted, it was found that accelerated aging impacts the supramolecular structure of TPUs.
Advantages of Spray Drying over Freeze Drying: A Comparative Analysis of Lonicera caerulea L. Juice Powders—Matrix Diversity and Bioactive Response
Authors: Michalska-Ciechanowska Anna , Brzezowska Jessica , Nowicka Paulina , Tkacz Karolina , Turkiewicz Igor Piotr , Hendrysiak Aleksandra , Oszmiański Jan , Andlauer Wilfried
Published: July 2024

The study investigated the impact of Lonicera caerulea L. juice matrix modification and drying techniques on powder characteristics. The evaluation encompassed phenolics (514.7–4388.7 mg/100 g dry matter), iridoids (up to 337.5 mg/100 g dry matter), antioxidant and antiglycation capacity, as well as anti-ageing properties of powders produced using maltodextrin, inulin, trehalose, and palatinose with a pioneering role as a carrier. Spray drying proved to be competitive with freeze drying for powder quality. Carrier application influenced the fruit powder properties. Trehalose protected the phenolics in the juice extract products, whereas maltodextrin showed protective effect in the juice powders. The concentrations of iridoids were influenced by the matrix type and drying technique. Antiglycation capacity was more affected by the carrier type in juice powders than in extract products. However, with carrier addition, the latter showed approximately 12-fold higher selectivity for acetylcholinesterase than other samples. Understanding the interplay between matrix composition, drying techniques, and powder properties provides insights for the development of plant-based products with tailored attributes, including potential health-linked properties.
Impact of Wall Material-to-Active Ratio in the Stability of Spray-Dried Ascorbic Acid Using Maltodextrin and Gum Arabic
Authors: Delaporte Adeline , Duchemin Benoît , Grisel Michel , Gore Ecaterina
Published: July 2024

Encapsulation revolutionizes industries through enhanced stability, controlled release, and targeted performance of active ingredients. The novel aspect of this study explores the impact of the wall material-to-active (WM:A) ratio on the stability of ascorbic acid (AA) encapsulated in a maltodextrin (MD) and gum arabic (GA) blend (2:1 w/w). Microparticles were spray-dried and analyzed using SEM, TGA, DSC, thermal stability, and antioxidant activity assessments. Stability tests under different conditions revealed that a higher WM:A ratio (7:1) improved the active stability and antioxidant activity during storage, highlighting its importance in the encapsulation process. SEM analysis confirmed particles with no cracks, and the particles demonstrated excellent thermal stability up to 200 °C with minimal degradation. These findings underscore the critical role of the WM:A ratio in determining the stability of encapsulated AA within a carbohydrate matrix, offering valuable insights for advancing encapsulation technologies.
Temperature-Sensitive Template for Preparation of ZnO/CeO2 Composite Photocatalytic Materials and Its Catalytic Performance
Authors: Zhang Yaoyao , Yang Wenjie , Zhu Zhengyuan , Zhang Lin , Peng Wenju
Published: July 2024

In this work, a series of thermosensitive ionic liquid functionalized polymers, PNx(IL)y, with controllable morphology and particle size were prepared by free radical polymerization. Then, using the polymer PN64(IL)8 with uniform morphology as a templating agent, the ZnO composite photocatalytic materials doped with rare earth metal Ce were prepared in combination with a microwave-assisted and templated hydrothermal reaction method. Series different Ce-doping amount photocatalytic materials ZnO-Ce-x‰ were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, and other methods. The results demonstrated that the templated materials PN64(IL)8 can prepare ZnO-Ce-2‰ with uniform petaloid ambulacra shape, good distribution of elements, and excellent photocatalytic performance. Photocatalytic degradation experiments of methyl orange (MO) showed that when the Ce-doping amount is only 2‰, the degradation rate of organic dyes can reach 96.5% by reacting the photocatalytic materials in water for 1 h. In addition, this kind of photocatalyst can be used for the degradation of high-concentration MO, as well as being easily recovered and effectively reused by simple filtration. Therefore, the structure of this kind of photocatalyst is controllable in the preparation process with an extremely low Ce-doping amount compared with current reports, and it has a good application prospect in the field of wastewater treatment technology.
Molybdenum and Vanadium-Codoped Cobalt Carbonate Nanosheets Deposited on Nickel Foam as a High-Efficient Bifunctional Catalyst for Overall Alkaline Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Wenxin , Xu Lulu , Ye Ruilong , Yang Peng , Zhu Junjie , Jiang Liping , Wu Xingcai
Published: July 2024

To address issues of global energy sustainability, it is essential to develop highly efficient bifunctional transition metal-based electrocatalysts to accelerate the kinetics of both the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, the heterogeneous molybdenum and vanadium codoped cobalt carbonate nanosheets loaded on nickel foam (VMoCoCOx@NF) are fabricated by facile hydrothermal deposition. Firstly, the mole ratio of V/Mo/Co in the composite is optimized by response surface methodology (RSM). When the optimized composite serves as a bifunctional catalyst, the water-splitting current density achieves 10 mA cm−2 and 100 mA cm−2 at cell voltages of 1.54 V and 1.61 V in a 1.0 M KOH electrolyte with robust stability. Furthermore, characterization is carried out using field emission scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (FESEM-EDS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the fabricated VMoCoCOx@NF catalyst synergistically decreases the Gibbs free energy of hydrogen and oxygen-containing intermediates, thus accelerating OER/HER catalytic kinetics. Benefiting from the concerted advantages of porous NF substrates and clustered VMoCoCOx nanosheets, the fabricated catalyst exhibits superior electrocatalytic performance. This work presents a novel approach to developing transition metal catalysts for overall water splitting.
Enhanced Visible-Light Photocatalytic Activity of Bismuth Ferrite Hollow Spheres Synthesized via Evaporation-Induced Self-Assembly
Authors: Cadenbach Thomas , Sanchez Valeria , Vizuete Karla , Debut Alexis , Reinoso Carlos , Benitez Maria J.
Published: July 2024

Semiconductor hollow spheres have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their unique structural properties and enhanced surface area, which are advantageous for various applications in catalysis, energy storage, and sensing. The present study explores the surfactant-assisted synthesis of bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) hollow spheres, emphasizing their enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity. Utilizing a novel, facile, two-step evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) approach, monodisperse BiFeO3 hollow spheres were synthesized with a narrow particle size distribution. The synthesis involved Bi/Fe citrate complexes as precursors and the triblock copolymer Pluronic P123 as a soft template. The BiFeO3 hollow spheres demonstrated outstanding photocatalytic performance in degrading the emerging pollutants Rhodamine B and metronidazole under visible-light irradiation (100% degradation of Rhodamine B in <140 min and of metronidazole in 240 min). The active species in the photocatalytic process were identified through trapping experiments, providing crucial insights into the mechanisms and efficiency of semiconductor hollow spheres. The findings suggest that the unique structural features of BiFeO3 hollow spheres, combined with their excellent optical properties, make them promising candidates for photocatalytic applications.
Controllable Construction of Aptamer-Modified Fe3O4@SiO2-Au Core-Shell-Satellite Nanocomposites with Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering and Photothermal Properties and Their Effective Capture, Detection, and Elimination of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Wang Yongdan , Wang Shengyi , Zou Yuhui , Gao Yuze , Ma Boya , Zhang Yuhan , Dai Huasong , Ma Jingmei , Zhao Wenshi
Published: July 2024

The early monitoring and inactivation of bacteria are of crucial importance in preventing the further spread of foodborne pathogens. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), a prototypical foodborne pathogen, is widely present in the natural environment and has the capability to trigger a range of diseases at low concentrations. In this work, we designed Fe3O4@SiO2-Au core–shell–satellite nanocomposites (NCs) modified with aptamer for efficient capture, high-sensitivity surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection, and photothermal therapy (PTT) against S. aureus. Fe3O4@SiO2-Au NCs with tunable Au nanocrystal nanogaps were prepared. By combining the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method and experimental results, we studied the electric field distribution of Fe3O4@SiO2-Au under different Au nanogaps and ultimately obtained the optimal SERS substrate FSA-60. The modification of aptamer on the surfaces of FSA-60 could be used for the specific capture and selective detection of S. aureus, achieving a detection limit of as low as 50 cfu/mL. Furthermore, Apt-FSA-60 possessed excellent photothermal properties, demonstrating the strong photothermal killing ability against S. aureus. Therefore, Apt-FSA-60 is a promising high-sensitivity SERS substrate and efficient photothermal agent and is expected to be widely applied and promoted in future disease prevention and treatment.
Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activity of Cornus mas L. and Crataegus monogyna Fruit Extracts
Authors: Paun Gabriela , Neagu Elena , Albu Camelia , Alecu Andreia , Seciu-Grama Ana-Maria , Radu Gabriel Lucian
Published: July 2024

The present study evaluated three green extraction methods, accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), and laser irradiation extraction (LE), for the polyphenolic compounds and vitamin C extraction of Cornus mas L. and Crataegus monogyna fruit extracts. The polyphenols and vitamin C of extracts were quantified using HPLC-DAD, and the total phenolic content, flavonoid content, antioxidant activity (DPPH and reducing power), and antidiabetic activity were also studied. The antidiabetic activity was examined by the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, and in vitro on a beta TC cell line (β-TC-6). The results showed significant differentiation in the extraction yield between the methods used, with the ASE and LE presenting the highest values. The C. mas fruit extract obtained by ASE exhibited the best antioxidant activity, reaching an IC50 value of 31.82 ± 0.10 µg/mL in the DPPH assay and 33.95 ± 0.20 µg/mL in the reducing power assay. The C. mas fruit extracts obtained by ASE and LE also have the highest inhibitory activity on enzymes associated with metabolic disorders: α-amylase (IC50 = 0.44 ± 0.02 µg/mL for the extract obtained by ASE, and 0.11 ± 0.01 µg/mL for the extract obtained by LE at combined wavelengths of 1270 + 1550 nm) and α-glucosidase (IC50 of 77.1 ± 3.1 µg/mL for the extract obtained by ASE, and 98.2 ± 4.7 µg/mL for the extract obtained by LE at combined wavelengths of 1270 + 1550 nm). The evaluation of in vitro antidiabetic activity demonstrated that the treatment with C. mas and C. monogyna fruit extracts obtained using ASE stimulated the insulin secretion of β-TC-6 cells, both under normal conditions and hyperglycemic conditions, as well. All results suggest that C. mas and C. monogyna fruit extracts are good sources of bioactive molecules with antioxidant and antidiabetic activity.
β-Galactosidase- and Photo-Activatable Fluorescent Probes for Protein Labeling and Super-Resolution STED Microscopy in Living Cells
Authors: Khan Taukeer A. , Stoldt Stefan , Bossi Mariano L. , Belov Vladimir N. , Hell Stefan W.
Published: July 2024

We report on the synthesis of two fluorescent probes which can be activated by β-Galactosidase (β-Gal) enzymes and/or light. The probes contained 2-nitro-4-oxybenzyl and 3-nitro-4-oxybenzyl fragments, with β-Gal residues linked to C-4. We performed the enzymatic and photoactivation of the probes in a cuvette and compared them, prior to the labeling of Vimentin–Halo fusion protein in live cells with overexpressed β-galactosidase. The dye fluorescence afforded the observation of enzyme activity by means of confocal and super-resolution optical microscopy based on stimulated emission depletion (STED). The tracing of enzymatic activity with the retention of activated fluorescent products inside cells was combined with super-resolution imaging as a tool for use in biomedicine and life science.
Progress on the Synthesis Pathways and Pharmacological Effects of Naturally Occurring Pyrazines
Authors: Liu Xun , Quan Wenli
Published: July 2024

As one of the most essential types of heterocyclic compounds, pyrazines have a characteristic smell and taste and have a wide range of commercial applications, especially in the food industry. With the development of the food industry, the demand for pyrazines has increased. Therefore, understanding the properties, functions, and synthetic pathways of pyrazines is one of the fundamental methods to produce, control, and apply pyrazines in food or medical systems. In this review, we provide an overview of the synthesis pathways and physiological or pharmacological functions of naturally occurring pyrazines. In particular, we focus on the biosynthesis and pharmacological effects of 2,3,5,6-Tetramethylpyrazine (TTMP), 2,5-Dimethylpyrazine (2,5-DMP), and 2,3,5-trimethylpyrazine (TMP). Furthermore, areas where further research on pyrazines is needed are discussed in this work.
Comparison of Cricket Protein Powder and Whey Protein Digestibility
Authors: Lampová Barbora , Doskočil Ivo , Šmíd Petr , Kouřimská Lenka
Published: July 2024

With the global population projected to reach nine billion by 2050, the search for alternative protein sources has become critical. This study evaluated the digestibility of cricket protein powder compared with that of whey protein powder. Cricket protein powder had a slightly lower protein content but higher fat content than whey protein powder. Although both contained all essential amino acids, their quantities varied. The most abundant essential amino acid was leucine in both samples. The essential amino acid index (EAAI) for cricket protein powder reached 79% when utilising crude protein for calculation. When using the amino acid sum calculation method, it increased by nearly 13%. The EAAI for whey protein was then 94% when calculated based on crude protein, with a slight increase observed when using the amino acid sum calculation method. Cricket protein exhibited a gradual increase in digestibility during intestinal digestion, reaching nearly 80%, whereas whey protein digestibility surpassed 97%. Despite the lower digestibility of cricket protein compared with whey protein, it remains sufficiently high for consideration as a valuable protein source. This study highlights the potential of cricket proteins and underscores the importance of assessing their protein content and digestibility in evaluating their nutritional value.
Total Syntheses and Stereochemical Assignment of Acremolides A and B
Authors: Xiao Yi , Liu Junyang , Jiang Yangyang , Guo Yian , Ye Tao
Published: July 2024

The absolute stereochemical configurations of acremolides A and B were predicted by a biochemistry-based rule and unambiguously confirmed through their total syntheses. The features of the total syntheses include sequential Krische’s Ir-catalyzed crotylation, Brown’s borane-mediated crotylation, Mitsunobu esterification reaction, and cross-metathesis reaction. The efficient total synthesis enabled clear validation of the predicted stereochemistry for acremolides A and B.
Combining the Fragment Molecular Orbital and GRID Approaches for the Prediction of Ligand–Metalloenzyme Binding Affinity: The Case Study of hCA II Inhibitors
Authors: Paciotti Roberto , Re Nazzareno , Storchi Loriano
Published: July 2024

Polarization and charge-transfer interactions play an important role in ligand–receptor complexes containing metals, and only quantum mechanics methods can adequately describe their contribution to the binding energy. In this work, we selected a set of benzenesulfonamide ligands of human Carbonic Anhydrase II (hCA II)—an important druggable target containing a Zn2+ ion in the active site—as a case study to predict the binding free energy in metalloprotein–ligand complexes and designed specialized computational methods that combine the ab initio fragment molecular orbital (FMO) method and GRID approach. To reproduce the experimental binding free energy in these systems, we adopted a machine-learning approach, here named formula generator (FG), considering different FMO energy terms, the hydrophobic interaction energy (computed by GRID) and logP. The main advantage of the FG approach is that it can find nonlinear relations between the energy terms used to predict the binding free energy, explicitly showing their mathematical relation. This work showed the effectiveness of the FG approach, and therefore, it might represent an important tool for the development of new scoring functions. Indeed, our scoring function showed a high correlation with the experimental binding free energy (R2 = 0.76–0.95, RMSE = 0.34–0.18), revealing a nonlinear relation between energy terms and highlighting the relevant role played by hydrophobic contacts. These results, along with the FMO characterization of ligand–receptor interactions, represent important information to support the design of new and potent hCA II inhibitors.
UPLC-MS/MS-Based Target Screening of 90 Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors in 5 Dietary Supplements
Authors: Jin Shaoming , Wang Yaonan , Ning Xiao , Liu Tongtong , Liang Ruiqiang , Pei Xinrong , Cao Jin
Published: July 2024

The aim of individuals consuming health supplements is to attain a robust state through nutritional regulation. However, some unscrupulous manufacturers, motivated by profit, fraudulently incorporate drugs or unauthorized components with therapeutic effects into the product for instant product performance enhancement. The long-term use of these products may inadvertently inflict harm on human health and fail to promote nutritive healthcare. The illegal inclusion of these substances is prevalent in kidney-tonifying and sexuality-enhancing products. Developing effective analytical methods to identify these products and screen for illegal added ingredients can effectively prevent such products from reaching and remaining on the market. A target screening method for the detection and quantification of 90 phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE-5is) in 5 kinds of health products was developed and validated. The type of dietary supplements varied from tablets, capsules, and protein powder to wine and beverages. Sample preparation was completed with a one-step liquid phase extraction. The screening process of 90 PDE-5is was done efficiently within 25 min by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) using the dynamic multiple reaction monitoring (dMRM) technique. The LODs of 90 PDE-5is were detected at levels ranging from 25 to 85 ng/g or ng/mL. This novel targeting methodology was effective and can be applied to routine market supervision. Among 286 batches of samples, 8 batches were found to be positive. Three kinds of PDE-5is were first detected in healthy products. The screening method demonstrated herein will be a promising and powerful tool for rapid screening of PDE-5is.
Fucoxanthin Inhibits the Proliferation and Metastasis of Human Pharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Du Hao-Fei , Jiang Jia-Min , Wu Si-Han , Shi Yan-Fang , Liu Hai-Tian , Hua Zheng-Hao , Wang Cai-Sheng , Qian Guo-Ying , Ding Hao-Miao
Published: July 2024

Human pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC) is the most common malignancy in the head and neck region, characterized by high mortality and a propensity for metastasis. Fucoxanthin, a carotenoid isolated from brown algae, exhibits pharmacological properties associated with the suppression of tumor proliferation and metastasis. Nevertheless, its potential to inhibit HPSCC proliferation and metastasis has not been fully elucidated. This study represents the first exploration of the inhibitory effects of fucoxanthin on two human pharyngeal squamous carcinoma cell lines (FaDu and Detroit 562), as well as the mechanisms underlying those effects. The results showed dose-dependent decreases in the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HPSCC cells after fucoxanthin treatment. Further studies indicated that fucoxanthin caused a significant reduction in the expression levels of proteins in the phosphoinositide 3−kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, as well as the downstream proteins matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)−2 and MMP−9. Specific activators of PI3K/AKT reversed the effects of fucoxanthin on these proteins, as well as on cell proliferation and metastasis, in FaDu and Detroit 562 cells. Molecular docking assays confirmed that fucoxanthin strongly interacted with PI3K, AKT, mTOR, MMP−2, and MMP−9. Overall, fucoxanthin, a functional food component, is a potential therapeutic agent for HPSCC.
Cannabis sativa as an Herbal Ingredient: Problems and Prospects
Authors: Oriola Ayodeji O. , Kar Pallab , Oyedeji Adebola O.
Published: July 2024

Cannabis sativa, otherwise known as hemp, is discussed to highlight the various problems and prospects associated with its use as an herbal ingredient. The chemical composition of hemp, with classification based on cannabinoid contents, its biological activities, current global scenarios and legality issues, economic importance, and future prospects, are discussed.
Analytical and Antimicrobial Characterization of Zn-Modified Clays Embedding Thymol or Carvacrol
Authors: Pinto Loris , Baruzzi Federico , Terzano Roberto , Busto Francesco , Marzulli Alessia , Magno Carmela , Cometa Stefania , De Giglio Elvira
Published: July 2024

Carvacrol and thymol are broad-spectrum natural antimicrobial agents. To reduce their volatility and improve their antimicrobial performance, synergistic systems were prepared loading the active molecules in zinc-modified clays. Montmorillonite (MMT) and zeolite (ZEO) were modified with zinc ions (ZnMMT and ZnZEO), with well-known antimicrobial properties, and then with carvacrol or thymol, reaching the 26 ± 3% and 33 ± 2% w/w of loading, respectively. The resulting hybrid materials were characterized by FT-IR, XPS, XRD, TGA, and GC-MS to evaluate carvacrol/thymol release in simulating food matrices. Antimicrobial assays carried out using spoiler and pathogenic bacterial strains showed that the antimicrobial activity of both thymol and carvacrol was largely preserved once they were loaded into Zn-modified clays. However, MMT hybrids showed an antibacterial activity significantly higher than ZEO hybrids at 50 mg/mL of thymol and carvacrol. For this reason, deeper antimicrobial evaluations were carried out only for ZnMMT composites. ZnMMT loaded with thymol or carvacrol produced inhibition zones against most of the target strains, also at 3.12 mg/mL, while the positive controls represented by the single molecule thymol or carvacrol were not active. The hybrid materials can be useful for applications in which the antimicrobial activity of natural molecules need to be displayed over time as requested for the control of microbial pathogens and spoilage bacteria in different applications, such as active packaging, biomaterials, and medical devices.
Influence of Varied Dietary Cholesterol Levels on Lipid Metabolism in Hamsters
Authors: Huang Chung-Hsiung , Hsu Hung-Sheng , Chiang Meng-Tsan
Published: July 2024

Syrian hamsters are valuable models for studying lipid metabolism due to their sensitivity to dietary cholesterol, yet the precise impact of varying cholesterol levels has not been comprehensively assessed. This study examined the impact of varying dietary cholesterol levels on lipid metabolism in Syrian hamsters. Diets ranging from 0% to 1% cholesterol were administered to assess lipid profiles and oxidative stress markers. Key findings indicate specific cholesterol thresholds for inducing distinct lipid profiles: below 0.13% for normal lipids, 0.97% for elevated LDL-C, 0.43% for increased VLDL-C, and above 0.85% for heightened hepatic lipid accumulation. A cholesterol supplementation of 0.43% induced hypercholesterolemia without adverse liver effects or abnormal lipoprotein expression. Furthermore, cholesterol supplementation significantly increased liver weight, plasma total cholesterol, LDL-C, and VLDL-C levels while reducing the HDL-C/LDL-C ratio. Fecal cholesterol excretion increased, with stable bile acid levels. High cholesterol diets correlated with elevated plasma ALT activities, reduced hepatic lipid peroxidation, and altered leptin and CETP levels. These findings underscore Syrian hamsters as robust models for hyperlipidemia research, offering insights into experimental methodologies. The identified cholesterol thresholds facilitate precise lipid profile manipulation, enhancing the hamster’s utility in lipid metabolism studies and potentially informing clinical approaches to managing lipid disorders.
Perception of Paediatricians and Families about Nutritional Supplements: Acceptance, Tolerability and Satisfaction in Malnourished Children (PerceptiONS Jr Study)
Authors: Tolín Hernani María del Mar , Miranda Cid María del Carmen , Guerrero Cuevas María , Álvarez Calatayud Guillermo ,   The PerceptiONS Jr Study Group, Sánchez César
Published: July 2024

Background: Malnutrition is a common situation in the Spanish paediatric population. Malnourished children may benefit from different strategies, including dietary modifications or nutritional supplements (NS). It is important to know the different factors that can influence treatment tolerance and adherence, and their impact on nutrition monitoring. Objectives: To explore the perception of doctors who prescribe nutritional supplements (NS) in children and to investigate different factors involved in tolerance and adherence. Material and methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive observational study based on an ad hoc electronic survey designed to study doctors’ perceptions of at least five of their children with NS and their families, subjected to outpatient follow up. Variables included were the socio-demographic variables of the doctors and children, nutritional status of the patients, amount and characteristics of NS (hyper-caloric oral with fibre (HOFF), oral peptide (OPF) and hyper-caloric infant (HIF)), route of administration, perceived benefits, satisfaction, palatability, adherence, and acceptance. Results: 815 patients aged 0–16 years (mean 10.6 years; SD 7.8) were included. A proportion of 64% received HOFF, 16% FOP, and 20% HIF. A proportion of 84% received exclusive oral NS. Total daily calorie intake prescribed with NS ranged from 30–75% in 48.2% of cases, though it was significantly higher in children under 6 months of age. Improvement in overall condition, nutritional status and quality of life was observed in 82%, 79.5%, and 80% of subjects. Improvement in tolerance and digestive symptoms was reported in 83.5% and 72% of subjects. The degree of satisfaction and acceptance of NS was very good in 80% of cases, with taste being the most influential factor (82.3%). Adherence was adequate in more than 60%, and smell was the most significant feature in lack of adherence (55%). The flavour of the best-accepted supplement was chocolate (44%). A total of 97% of prescribing doctors would recommend the same formula again. Conclusions: In our study, prescribing doctors and families perceived an excellent benefit from the use of the prescribed formulas, improved quality of life, high satisfaction, acceptance, and adherence. The positive factors for adequate adherence were sufficient information about the formulations and their benefits, and continuity of care during follow-up. Prescribing doctors would recommend supplement use again given the perceived benefits and satisfaction.
Effect of Crude Extract from the Sea Anemone Bunodeopsis globulifera on Voltage-Gated Ion Channels from Central and Peripheral Murine Nervous Systems
Authors: Flores-Pérez Aleida Jeannette , Loya-López Santiago , Ávalos-Fuentes Arturo , Calderon-Rivera Aida , Damo Elisa , Lazcano-Pérez Fernando , Khanna Rajesh , Florán-Garduño Benjamin , Sánchez-Rodríguez Judith
Published: July 2024

Sea anemones are an important source of bioactive compounds with potential pharmacological applications. Their toxins are produced and stored in organelles called nematocysts and act on specific targets, including voltage-gated ion channels. To date, sea anemone toxins have demonstrated effects on voltage-gated sodium and potassium channels, facilitating investigations into the structure and function of these proteins. In this study, we evaluated the effect of Bunodeopsis globulifera sea anemone crude extract, and of a low molecular weight fraction, on voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels within the murine nervous system. Notably, the crude extract led to a significant reduction in total sodium current, while also triggering calcium-dependent glutamate release. Furthermore, the low molecular weight fraction, in particular, enhanced total calcium currents and current density. These findings underscore the existence of sea anemone toxins with diverse mechanisms of action beyond those previously documented.
Biopolymeric Insulin Membranes for Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Wound Healing Applications
Authors: Aguilar-Vázquez Rocío , Romero-Montero Alejandra , Del Prado-Audelo María L. , Cariño-Calvo Lizbeth , González-Del Carmen Manuel , Vizcaíno-Dorado Pablo Adrián , Caballero-Florán Isaac Hiram , Peña-Corona Sheila Iraís , Chávez-Corona Juan Isaac , Bernad-Bernad María Josefa , Magaña Jonathan J. , Cortés Hernán , Leyva-Gómez Gerardo
Published: July 2024

Delayed wound healing increases the wound’s vulnerability to possible infections, which may have lethal outcomes. The treatments available can be effective, but the urgency is not fully encompassed. The drug repositioning strategy proposes effective alternatives for enhancing medical therapies for chronic diseases. Likewise, applying wound dressings as biodegradable membranes is extremely attractive due to their ease of application, therapeutic effectiveness, and feasibility in industrial manufacturing. This article aims to demonstrate the pleiotropic effects during insulin repositioning in wound closure by employing a biopolymeric membrane-type formulation with insulin. We prepared biopolymeric membranes with sodium alginate cross-linked with calcium chloride, supported in a mixture of xanthan gum and guar gum, and plasticized with glycerol and sorbitol. Human insulin was combined with poloxamer 188 as a protein stabilizing agent. Our investigation encompassed physicochemical and mechanical characterization, antioxidant and biological activity through antibacterial tests, cell viability assessments, and scratch assays as an in vitro and in vivo wound model. We demonstrated that our biopolymeric insulin membranes exhibited adequate manipulation and suitable mechanical resistance, transparency, high swelling capability (1100%), and 30% antioxidant activity. Furthermore, they exhibited antibacterial activity (growth inhibition of S. aureus at 85% and P. aeruginosa at 75%, respectively), and insulin promoted wound closure in vitro with a 5.5-fold increase and 72% closure at 24 h. Also, insulin promoted in vivo wound closure with a 3.2-fold increase and 92% closure at 10 days compared with the groups without insulin, and this is the first report that demonstrates this therapeutic effect with two administrations of 0.7 IU. In conclusion, we developed a multifunctional insulin-loaded biopolymeric membrane in this study, with the main activity derived from insulin’s role in wound closure and antioxidant activity, augmented by the antimicrobial effect attributed to the polymer poloxamer 188. The synergistic combination of excipients enhances its usefulness and highlights our innovation as a promising material in wound healing materials.
Silicon Carbide Microring Resonators for Integrated Nonlinear and Quantum Photonics Based on Optical Nonlinearities
Authors: Zhang Qianni , Wang Jiantao , Poon Andrew W.
Published: July 2024

Silicon carbide (SiC) electronics has seen a rapid development in industry over the last two decades due to its capabilities in handling high powers and high temperatures while offering a high saturated carrier mobility for power electronics applications. With the increased capacity in producing large-size, single-crystalline SiC wafers, it has recently been attracting attention from academia and industry to exploit SiC for integrated photonics owing to its large bandgap energy, wide transparent window, and moderate second-order optical nonlinearity, which is absent in other centrosymmetric silicon-based material platforms. SiC with various polytypes exhibiting second- and third-order optical nonlinearities are promising for implementing nonlinear and quantum light sources in photonic integrated circuits. By optimizing the fabrication processes of the silicon carbide-on-insulator platforms, researchers have exploited the resulting high-quality-factor microring resonators for various nonlinear frequency conversions and spontaneous parametric down-conversion in photonic integrated circuits. In this paper, we review the fundamentals and applications of SiC-based microring resonators, including the material and optical properties, the device design for nonlinear and quantum light sources, the device fabrication processes, and nascent applications in integrated nonlinear and quantum photonics.
Bessel-Beam Single-Photon High-Resolution Imaging in Time and Space
Authors: Qi Huiyu , Li Zhaohui , Wang Yurong , Chen Xiuliang , Pan Haifeng , Wu E , Wu Guang
Published: July 2024

Synchronous laser beam scanning is a common technique used in single-photon imaging where the spatial resolution is primarily determined by the beam divergence angle. In this context, Bessel beams have been investigated as they can overcome the diffraction limit associated with traditional Gaussian beams. Notably, the central spot of a Bessel beam retains its size almost unchanged within a non-diffractive distance. However, the presence of sidelobes in the Bessel beam can negatively impact spatial resolution. To address this challenge, we have developed a single-photon imaging system with high-depth resolution, which allows for the suppression of echo photons from the sidelobe light in the depth image, particularly when their flight time differs from that of the central spot. In our LiDAR setup, we successfully achieved high-resolution scanning imaging with a spatial resolution of approximately 0.5 mm while also demonstrating a high-depth resolution of 12 mm.
Dissociative Ionization of the CHBr2Cl Molecule in 800 nm and 400 nm Femtosecond Laser Fields
Authors: Liu Botong , Li Zhipeng
Published: July 2024

The dissociative ionization of CHBr2Cl molecules in femtosecond laser fields at 800 nm and 400 nm is investigated to enhance the comprehension of ultrafast dynamics phenomena. The kinetic energy distribution of the resulting ions following photo-dissociation is analyzed using time-of-flight mass spectrometry in combination with DC-sliced ion velocity map imaging. The findings from the experimental study indicate that the presence of low kinetic energy components is attributed to the dissociative ionization processes of CHBr2Cl molecules. The complexity of individual dissociation pathways remains unaffected by the laser fields but is determined by factors such as bond energy, ionization energy of neutral groups, and charge distribution. In the case of 400 nm laser fields, distinct elimination channels enable CHBr2Cl+ ions to circumvent the transition state, leading to the formation of BrCl+ and Br2+ fragments.
Microscopic Temperature Sensor Based on End-Face Fiber-Optic Fabry–Perot Interferometer
Authors: Chesnokova Maria , Nurmukhametov Danil , Ponomarev Roman , Agliullin Timur , Kuznetsov Artem , Sakhabutdinov Airat , Morozov Oleg , Makarov Roman
Published: July 2024

This work proposes a simple and affordable technology for the manufacturing of a miniature end-face fiber-optic temperature sensor based on a Fabry–Perot interferometer formed from a transparent UV-curable resin. For the manufactured working prototype of the sensor, the sensitivity and operating temperature range were determined, and the methods for their enhancement were proposed. Due to its small size, the proposed type of sensor can be used in high-precision and minimally invasive temperature measurements, in biology for microscale sample monitoring, and in medicine during operations using high-power lasers. A microwave photonic method is proposed that enables the interrogation of the sensor without using an optical spectrum analyzer.
Modeling of the Time-Dependent H2 Emission and Equilibrium Time in H2-Enriched Polymers with Cylindrical, Spherical and Sheet Shapes and Comparisons with Experimental Investigations
Authors: Jung Jae Kap , Lee Ji Hun , Park Jae Yeong , Jeon Sang Koo
Published: July 2024

Time-dependent emitted H2 content modeling via a reliable diffusion analysis program was performed for H2-enriched polymers under high pressure. Here, the emitted hydrogen concentration versus elapsed time was obtained at different diffusivities and volume dimensions for cylinder-, sphere- and sheet-shaped specimens. The desorption equilibrium time, defined as the time when the H2 emission content is nearly saturated, was an essential factor for determining the periodic cyclic testing and high-pressure H2 exposure effect. The equilibrium time in the desorption process was modeled. The equilibrium time revealed an exponential growth behavior with respect to the squared thickness and the squared diameter of the cylinder--shaped specimen, while it was proportional to the squared diameter for the sphere-shaped specimen and to the squared thickness for the sheet-shaped specimen. Linear relationships between the reciprocal equilibrium time and diffusivity were found for all shaped polymers. The modeling results were confirmed by analysis of the solutions using Fick’s second diffusion law and were consistent with the experimental investigations. Numerical modeling provides a useful tool for predicting the time-dependent emitted H2 behavior and desorption equilibrium time. With a known diffusivity, a complicated time-dependent emitted H2 behavior with a multi-exponential form of an infinite series could also be predicted for the three shaped samples using a diffusion analysis program.