bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flow Field Study of Large Bottom-Blown Lead Smelting Furnace with Numerical Simulation
Authors: Xi Wenlong , Niu Liping , Song Jinbo
Published: June 2023

In this paper, a large bottom-blown lead smelting furnace is studied by numerical simulation, the flow characteristics of different planes, monitoring points and molten pool regions are analysed, and a formula is established to predict the velocity distribution of molten pool in the bottom-blown furnace. The results show that the flow between two adjacent oxygen lances will influence each other and effectively reduce the existence of a low-velocity region. The high-velocity region at the liquid surface is mainly distributed above the bubble molten pool reaction region (BMRR), and the velocity is transmitted to the upper/lower sides. The wall shear stress is mainly distributed at the bottom and on the walls on both sides of the BMRR. The pre-stabilisation time of a bottom-blown furnace is 2 s, and the unstable state existing in the local region will not have a great influence on the overall flow field in the furnace. The distribution of the bubble plume and the high-velocity region overlaps under the free liquid surface, and their boundaries are basically consistent. The fitting effect of the velocity cumulative percentage curve and each point is very good.
Mechanical Fracture of Aluminium Alloy (AA 2024-T4), Used in the Manufacture of a Bioproducts Plant
Authors: Urrego Luis Fabian , García-Beltrán Olimpo , Arzola Nelson , Araque Oscar
Published: June 2023

Aluminium alloy (AA2024-T4) is a material commonly used in the aerospace industry, where it forms part of the fuselage of aircraft and spacecraft thanks to its good machinability and strength/weight ratio. These characteristics allowed it to be applied in the construction of the structure of a pilot plant to produce biological extracts and nano-encapsulated bioproducts for the phytosanitary control of diseases associated with microorganisms in crops of Theobroma cacao L. (Cacao). The mechanical design of the bolted support joints for this structure implies knowing the performance under fatigue conditions of the AA2024-T4 material since the use of bolts entails the placement of circular stress concentrators in the AA2024-T4 sheet. The geometric correction constant (Y) is a dimensionless numerical scalar used to correct the stress intensity factor (SIF) at the crack tip during propagation. This factor allows the stress concentration to be modified as a function of the specimen dimensions. In this work, four compact tension specimens were modeled in AA2024-T4, and each one was modified by introducing a second circular stress concentrator varying its size between 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, and 30 mm, respectively. Applying a cyclic load of 1000N, a load ratio R=-1 and a computational model with tetrahedral elements, it was determined that the highest SIF corresponds to the specimen with a 30 mm concentrator with a value close to 460 MPa.mm0.5. Where the crack propagation had a maximum length of 53 mm. Using these simulation data, it was possible to process each one and obtain a mathematical model that calculates the geometric correction constant (Y). The calculated data using the new model was shown to have a direct relationship with the behavior obtained from the simulation.
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for Detection and Quantification of Meloxicam and 5′-Carboxymeloxicam in Oral Fluid Samples
Authors: Oliveira Gabriela Moraes , Dionísio Thiago José , Siqueira-Sandrin Viviane Silva , Ferrari Leticia Alves de Lima , Colombini-Ishikiriama Bella Luna , Faria Flávio Augusto Cardoso , Santos Carlos Ferreira , Calvo Adriana Maria
Published: June 2023

A sensitive, selective and particularly fast method of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was developed and validated for the determination of meloxicam and its main metabolite, 5′-carboxymeloxicam, in oral fluid samples. Meloxicam and its major metabolite were separated using a Shim-Pack XR-ODS 75 L × 2.0 column and C18 pre-column at 40 °C using a mixture of methanol and 10 mM ammonium acetate (80:20, v/v) with an injection flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. The total time of the analytical run was 5 min. Sixteen volunteers had oral fluid samples collected sequentially before and after taking a meloxicam tablet (15 mg) for up to 96 h. With the concentrations obtained, the pharmacokinetic parameters were determined using the Phoenix WinNonlin software. The parameters evaluated for meloxicam and 5′-carboxymeloxicam in the oral fluid samples showed linearity, accuracy, precision, medium-quality control (MQC-78.12 ng/mL), high-quality control (HQC-156.25 ng/mL), lower limits of quantification (LLOQ-0.6103 ng/mL), low-quality control (LQC-2.44 ng/mL), stability and dilution. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was also detected and quantified in the oral fluid samples, demonstrating the possibility of a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) study with this methodology. All the parameters evaluated in the validation of the methodology in the oral fluid samples proved to be stable and within the possible variations in each of the described parameters. Through the data presented, the possibility of a PK/PD study was demonstrated, detecting and quantifying meloxicam, its main metabolite and PGE2 in oral fluid samples using LC-MS/MS.
Maternal and Child Health, Non-Communicable Diseases and Metabolites
Authors: Cerf Marlon E.
Published: June 2023

Mothers influence the health and disease trajectories of their children, particularly during the critical developmental windows of fetal and neonatal life reflecting the gestational–fetal and lactational–neonatal phases. As children grow and develop, they are exposed to various stimuli and insults, such as metabolites, that shape their physiology and metabolism to impact their health. Non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and mental illness, have high global prevalence and are increasing in incidence. Non-communicable diseases often overlap with maternal and child health. The maternal milieu shapes progeny outcomes, and some diseases, such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, have gestational origins. Metabolite aberrations occur from diets and physiological changes. Differential metabolite profiles can predict the onset of non-communicable diseases and therefore inform prevention and/or better treatment. In mothers and children, understanding the metabolite influence on health and disease can provide insights for maintaining maternal physiology and sustaining optimal progeny health over the life course. The role and interplay of metabolites on physiological systems and signaling pathways in shaping health and disease present opportunities for biomarker discovery and identifying novel therapeutic agents, particularly in the context of maternal and child health, and non-communicable diseases.
Hecogenin a Plant Derived Small Molecule as an Antagonist to BACE-1: A Potential Target for Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Padmanabhan Deepthi , Siddiqui Manzer H. , Natarajan Purushothaman , Palanisamy Senthilkumar
Published: June 2023

The field of drug discovery has recognized the significance of computer-aided drug design. Recent advancements in structure identification and characterization, bio-computational science and molecular biology have significantly contributed to the development of novel treatments for various diseases. Alzheimer’s disease is prevalent in over 50 million affected people, with the pathological condition of amyloidal plaque formation by the beta-amyloidal peptide that results in lesions of the patient’s brain, thus making the target prediction and treatment a hurdle. In this study, we evaluated the potential of 54 bioactive compounds from Justicia adhatoda L. and Sida cordifolia L. identified through LC-MS/MS against the β-site amyloid precursor cleaving enzyme (beta-secretase) that results in the formation of amyloidal plaques. To study the drug-likeness of the phytocompounds, Lipinski’s rule of five for ADME profiling and toxicity prediction was performed. Molecular docking was performed using auto-dock tool of PyRx software; molecular dynamic simulations were performed using the Schrodinger suite. Molecular docking against BACE-1 protein revealed that hecogenin, identified from S. cordifolia has a broad spectrum of pharmacological applications and a binding affinity score of −11.3 kcal/Mol. The Hecogenin–BACE-1 protein complex was found to be stable after 30 ns of MD simulation, resulting in its substantial stability. Further studies focusing on the in vivo neuroprotective activity of hecogenin against the disease will pave the way for efficient drug discovery from natural sources in a precise manner.
Saturation-Induced Phase Error Compensation Method Using Complementary Phase
Authors: Wan Yingying , Cao Yiping , Xu Min , Tang Tao
Published: June 2023

Intensity saturation can induce phase error and, thus, measurement error in fringe projection profilometry. To reduce saturation-induced phase errors, a compensation method is developed. The mathematical model of saturation-induced phase errors is analyzed for N-step phase-shifting profilometry, and the phase error is approximately N-folder of the frequency of the projected fringe. Additional N-step phase-shifting fringe patterns with initial phase-shift π/N are projected for generating a complementary phase map. The final phase map is obtained by averaging the original phase map extracted from the original fringe patterns and the complementary phase map, and then the phase error can be canceled out. Both simulations and experiments demonstrated that the proposed method can substantially reduce the saturation-induced phase error and realize accurate measurements for a highly dynamic range of scenarios.
Characterisation of Type II DNA Methyltransferases of Metamycoplasma hominis
Authors: Vogelgsang Lars , Nisar Azlan , Scharf Sebastian Alexander , Rommerskirchen Anna , Belick Dana , Dilthey Alexander , Henrich Birgit
Published: June 2023

Bacterial virulence, persistence and defence are affected by epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation. Solitary DNA methyltransferases modulate a variety of cellular processes and influence bacterial virulence; as part of a restriction-modification (RM) system, they act as a primitive immune system in methylating the own DNA, while unmethylated foreign DNA is restricted. We identified a large family of type II DNA methyltransferases in Metamycoplasma hominis, comprising six solitary methyltransferases and four RM systems. Motif-specific 5mC and 6mA methylations were identified with a tailored Tombo analysis on Nanopore reads. Selected motifs with methylation scores >0.5 fit with the gene presence of DAM1 and DAM2, DCM2, DCM3, and DCM6, but not for DCM1, whose activity was strain-dependent. The activity of DCM1 for CmCWGG and of both DAM1 and DAM2 for GmATC was proven in methylation-sensitive restriction and finally for recombinant rDCM1 and rDAM2 against a dam-, dcm-negative background. A hitherto unknown dcm8/dam3 gene fusion containing a (TA) repeat region of varying length was characterized within a single strain, suggesting the expression of DCM8/DAM3 phase variants. The combination of genetic, bioinformatics, and enzymatic approaches enabled the detection of a huge family of type II DNA MTases in M. hominis, whose involvement in virulence and defence can now be characterized in future work.
Production of Polyhydroxybutyrate by Genetically Modified Pseudomonas sp. phDV1: A Comparative Study of Utilizing Wine Industry Waste as a Carbon Source
Authors: Drakonaki Athina , Mathioudaki Eirini , Geladas Ermis Dionysios , Konsolaki Eleni , Vitsaxakis Nikolaos , Chaniotakis Nikos , Xie Hao , Tsiotis Georgios
Published: June 2023

Pseudomonas sp. phDV1 is a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) producer. The presence of the endogenous PHA depolymerase (phaZ) responsible for the degradation of the intracellular PHA is one of the main shortages in the bacterial production of PHA. Further, the production of PHA can be affected by the regulatory protein phaR, which is important in accumulating different PHA-associated proteins. PHA depolymerase phaZ and phaR knockout mutants of Pseudomonas sp. phDV1 were successfully constructed. We investigate the PHA production from 4.25 mM phenol and grape pomace of the mutants and the wild type. The production was screened by fluorescence microscopy, and the PHA production was quantified by HPLC chromatography. The PHA is composed of Polydroxybutyrate (PHB), as confirmed by 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance analysis. The wildtype strain produces approximately 280 μg PHB after 48 h in grape pomace, while the phaZ knockout mutant produces 310 μg PHB after 72 h in the presence of phenol per gram of cells, respectively. The ability of the phaZ mutant to synthesize high levels of PHB in the presence of monocyclic aromatic compounds may open the possibility of reducing the costs of industrial PHB production.
Blastospores from Metarhizium anisopliae and Metarhizium rileyi Are Not Always as Virulent as Conidia Are towards Spodoptera frugiperda Caterpillars and Use Different Infection Mechanisms
Authors: Gotti Isabella Alice , Moreira Camila Costa , Delalibera Italo , De Fine Licht Henrik H.
Published: June 2023

Infective conidia from entomopathogenic fungi are widely used to control insect pests. Many entomopathogenic fungi also produce yeast-like cells called blastospores under specific liquid culture conditions that can directly infect insects. However, little is known about the biological and genetic factors that allow blastospores to infect insects and make them potentially effective for biological control in the field. Here, we show that while the generalist Metarhizium anisopliae produces a higher number of and smaller blastospores, the Lepidoptera specialist M. rileyi produces fewer propagules with a higher cell volume under high-osmolarity conditions. We compared the virulence of blastospores and conidia of these two Metarhizium species towards the economically important caterpillar pest Spodoptera frugiperda. Conidia and blastospores from M. anisopliae were equally infectious, but acted slower, and killed fewer insects than M. rileyi conidia and blastospores did, where M. rielyi conidia had the highest virulence. Using comparative transcriptomics during propagule penetration of insect cuticles, we show that M. rileyi blastospores express more virulence-related genes towards S. frugiperda than do M. anisopliae blastospores. In contrast, conidia of both fungi express more virulence-related oxidative stress factors than blastospores. Our results highlight that blastospores use a different virulence mechanism than conidia use, which may be explored in new biological control strategies.
The Neonatal Immune System and Respiratory Pathogens
Authors: Sedney Colleen J. , Harvill Eric T.
Published: June 2023

Neonates are more susceptible to some pathogens, particularly those that cause infection in the respiratory tract. This is often attributed to an incompletely developed immune system, but recent work demonstrates effective neonatal immune responses to some infection. The emerging view is that neonates have a distinctly different immune response that is well-adapted to deal with unique immunological challenges of the transition from a relatively sterile uterus to a microbe-rich world, tending to suppress potentially dangerous inflammatory responses. Problematically, few animal models allow a mechanistic examination of the roles and effects of various immune functions in this critical transition period. This limits our understanding of neonatal immunity, and therefore our ability to rationally design and develop vaccines and therapeutics to best protect newborns. This review summarizes what is known of the neonatal immune system, focusing on protection against respiratory pathogens and describes challenges of various animal models. Highlighting recent advances in the mouse model, we identify knowledge gaps to be addressed.
GC-MS Analysis, Antibacterial, and Anticancer Activities of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Methanolic Extract: In Vitro and In Silico Studies
Authors: Sehim Amira E. , Amin Basma H. , Yosri Mohammed , Salama Hanaa M. , Alkhalifah Dalal Hussien , Alwaili Maha Abdullah , Abd Elghaffar Rasha Y.
Published: June 2023

The emergence of bacteria that are resistant to several antibiotics has represented a serious hazard to human health globally. Bioactive metabolites from medicinal plants have a wide spectrum of therapeutic possibilities against resistant bacteria. Therefore, this study was performed to investigate the antibacterial efficacy of various extracts of three medicinal plants as Salvia officinalis L., Ziziphus spina-christi L., and Hibiscus sabdariffa L. against pathogenic Gram-negative Enterobacter cloacae (ATCC13047), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (RCMB008001), Escherichia coli (RCMB004001), and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), bacteria using the agar-well diffusion method. Results revealed that, out of the three examined plant extracts, the methanol extract of H. sabdariffa L. was the most effective against all tested bacteria. The highest growth inhibition (39.6 ± 0.20 mm) was recorded against E. coli. Additionally, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the methanol extract of H. sabdariffa were detected in the case of all tested bacteria. Moreover, an antibiotic susceptibility test revealed that all tested bacteria showed multidrug resistance (MDR). While 50% of tested bacteria were sensitive and 50% were intermediately sensitive to piperacillin/tazobactam (TZP) based on the inhibition zone but still less than the extract. Synergistic assay demonstrated the promising role of using a combination of H. sabdariffa L. and (TZP) against tested bacteria. A surface investigation using a scanning electron microscope of the E. coli treated with TZP, extract, or a combination of the two revealed extremely considerable bacterial cell death. In addition, H. sabdariffa L. has a promising anticancer role versus Caco-2 cells with IC50 of 17.51 ± 0.07 µg/mL and minimal cytotoxicity upon testing versus Vero cells with CC50 of 165.24 ± 0.89 µg/mL. Flow cytometric analysis confirmed that H. sabdariffa extract significantly increased the apoptotic rate of Caco-2-treated cells compared to the untreated group. Furthermore, GC-MS analysis confirmed the existence of various bioactive components in the methanol hibiscus extract. Utilizing molecular docking with the MOE-Dock tool, binding interactions between n-Hexadecanoic acid, hexadecanoic acid-methyl ester, and oleic acid, 3-hydroxypropyl ester were evaluated against the target crystal structures of E. coli (MenB) (PDB ID:3T88) and the structure of cyclophilin of a colon cancer cell line (PDB ID: 2HQ6). The observed results provide insight into how molecular modeling methods might inhibit the tested substances, which may have applications in the treatment of E. coli and colon cancer. Thus, H. sabdariffa methanol extract is a promising candidate to be further investigated for developing alternative natural therapies for infection treatment.
The Sulfur Isotopic Characteristics of Evaporites in the Yarkand Basin of Xinjiang Province in the Paleocene and Its Paleoenvironmental Evolution
Authors: Liu Yidong , Zeng Aihua , Chen Wenjun , Cao Yangtong
Published: June 2023

The Yarkand Basin, located in the southwest of the Tarim Basin, is a northeastern part of the eastern Paratethys ocean in the Paleocene, and a significant amount of evaporites, with gypsum, anhydrite, and halite as the main types, were developed in this area. These evaporites record the sedimentary environment at that time. A study was conducted on the sulfur isotopic composition of gypsum in the Paleocene of the Yarkand Basin to explore the origin of the evaporites and interpret the sedimentary environment. The experimentally measured sulfur isotope δ34SCDT values of 187 gypsum samples ranged from 6.69‰ to 25.92‰ with an average value of 18.64‰. The overall trend of the Paleocene gypsum sulfur isotopic curve is consistent with the global seawater sulfur isotopic curve, which shows a decreasing trend. In the early and middle Paleocene, the curve shows four stages of sulfur isotope increase, indicating that the sedimentary environment during that time was mainly influenced by bacterial reduction and a relatively open sedimentary environment, while the late period shows a decreasing trend, suggesting that the late period may be primarily influenced by terrigenous freshwater. In addition, the sulfur isotope value has the characteristics of decreasing from northwest to southeast of the basin, which may indicate that the sedimentary environment of Paleocene evaporites in the Yarkand Basin may also be related to paleotopography and distance from the estuary, resulting in differences in sedimentary environments. The mainly original sulfur isotope values of the Paleocene evaporites in the Yarkand Basin should be in the range of 18‰–20‰, which is a supplement to the Paleocene global paleoseawater and is of great significance for the reconstruction of the marine transgressive–regressive cycle and sulfur isotopic composition of the eastern Paratethys ocean during this period.
Cu-Ag-Au Microspherules in Igneous Rocks: Morphology, Composition, Diagnostic Criteria and Possible Origin
Authors: Berdnikov Nikolai , Kepezhinskas Pavel , Krutikova Valeria , Kozhemyako Nadezhda , Konovalova Natalia
Published: June 2023

Igneous rocks from the Russian Far East contain Cu-Ag-Au microspherules with distinct exterior and interior structures, compositions and assemblages of Cu-rich micro-inclusions. Natural microspherules are compared in this study with technogenic Cu-Ag-Au microspherules, which are experimentally produced and extracted from gold scrap jewelry. The following set of diagnostic criteria are considered to distinguish natural from technogenic microspherules on a genetic basis as follows: (1) compacted-related features versus cellular appearance of the exterior; (2) lack of exsolution- or crystallization-related features in natural and domain-type internal structure in technogenic microspherules; (3) absence of spherical copper-oxide inclusions along with meniscus-type textural boundaries in technogenic mcirospherules; (4) pure copper-oxide composition of inclusions versus the common presence of Fe, Ni, Zn, Cu and Na in natural microspherules. The diagnostic characteristics of natural Cu-Ag-Au microspherules suggest extremely fast cooling rates during their formation, which is possible during violent explosive volcanic eruptions or injection of partially molten, pulverized metal alloys into shallow intra-crustal cavities and fault-related tectonic gashes.
Crystal Chemistry, Thermal and Radiation-Induced Conversions and Indicatory Significance of S-Bearing Groups in Balliranoite
Authors: Chukanov Nikita V. , Sapozhnikov Anatoly N. , Shendrik Roman Yu. , Zubkova Natalia V. , Vigasina Marina F. , Potekhina Nadezhda V. , Ksenofontov Dmitry A. , Pekov Igor V.
Published: June 2023

Crystal-chemical features of a sulfide-bearing variety of the cancrinite-group mineral balliranoite from the Tuluyskoe lapis lazuli deposit, Baikal Lake area, Siberia, Russia, have been investigated using a multimethodic approach based on infrared (IR), Raman, and electron spin resonance (ESR), as well as ultraviolet, visible and near infrared (UV–Vis–near IR) absorption spectroscopy methods, luminescence spectroscopy, electron microprobe analysis, selective sorption of CO2 and H2O from annealing products, and single-crystal X-ray structure analysis. Holotype balliranoite and its sulfate analogue, davyne, were studied for comparison. The crystal-chemical formula of the studied sample from Tultuyskoe is Na5.4K0.1Ca2.4(Si6Al6O24)Cl2[(CO3)0.7(SO4)0.18S*0.95Cl0.1(H2O)0.16], where the content of the wide zeolite channel is given in square brackets; S* is total sulfide sulfur occurring as disordered S2●−, cis- and trans-S4, S52−, minor S3●−, and HS− groups. The presence of S52− and HS− groups, the absence of CO2 molecules, and the association with pyrrhotite and Fe-free pargasite indicate that the studied sample crystallized under highly reducing, low-temperature conditions, unlike holotype balliranoite whose formation was related to the Somma-Vesuvius volcanic complex, Italy. Irradiation of balliranoite from Tultuyskoe with X-rays results in the transformations of polysulfide groups other than S3●− into S3●− in accordance with the scheme: S52− → S2●− + S3●−; 3S2●− → 2S3●− + e−; S4 + S2●− + e− → 2S3●−; S4 + S2●− + e− → 2S3●−; S4 + S52− + e− → 3S3●− (e− = electron).
Binaphthyl-Based Chiral Macrocyclic Hosts for the Selective Recognition of Iodide Anions
Authors: Wang Zong-Cheng , Tan Ying-Zi , Tang Lin-Li , Zeng Fei
Published: June 2023

In this study, we explorethe synthesis of binaphthyl-based chiral macrocyclic hosts for the first time. They exhibited the selective recognition abilities of iodide anions which can be favored over those of other anions (AcO−, NO3−, ClO4−, HSO4−, Br−, PF6−, H2PO4−, BF4−, and CO3F3S−), as confirmed by UV-vis, HRMS, and 1H NMR spectroscopy experiments, as well as DFT calculations. Neutral aryl C–H···anion interactions play an important role in the formation complexes. The recognition process can be observed by the naked eye.
Construction of Microporous Zincophilic Interface for Stable Zn Anode
Authors: Yang Xin , Shu Tie , Huang Haoyu , Yi Hongquan , Zhang Yanchi , Xiao Wei , Li Liang , Zhang Yuxin , Ma Minghao , Liu Xingyuan , Yao Kexin
Published: June 2023

Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) are promising electrochemical energy storage devices due to their high theoretical specific capacity, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, uncontrolled dendrite growth poses a serious threat to the reversibility of Zn plating/stripping, which impacts the stability of batteries. Therefore, controlling the disordered dendrite growth remains a considerable challenge in the development of AZIBs. Herein, a ZIF-8-derived ZnO/C/N composite (ZOCC) interface layer was constructed on the surface of the Zn anode. The homogeneous distribution of zincophilic ZnO and the N element in the ZOCC facilitates directional Zn deposition on the (002) crystal plane. Moreover, the conductive skeleton with a microporous structure accelerates Zn2+ transport kinetics, resulting in a reduction in polarization. As a result, the stability and electrochemical properties of AZIBs are improved. Specifically, the ZOCC@Zn symmetric cell sustains over 1150 h at 0.5 mA cm−2 with 0.25 mA h cm−2, while the ZOCC@Zn half-cell achieves an outstanding Coulombic efficiency of 99.79% over 2000 cycles. This work provides a simple and effective strategy for improving the lifespan of AZIBs.
Exploring the Aroma Fingerprint of Various Chinese Pear Cultivars through Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Volatile Compounds Using HS-SPME and GC×GC-TOFMS
Authors: Zhang Wenjun , Yan Mengmeng , Zheng Xinxin , Chen Zilei , Li Huidong , Mao Jiangsheng , Qin Hongwei , Zhu Chao , Du Hongxia , Abd El-Aty A. M.
Published: June 2023

To comprehensively understand the volatile compounds and assess the aroma profiles of different types of Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim. Anli, Dongmili, Huagai, Jianbali, Jingbaili, Jinxiangshui, and Nanguoli were detected via headspace solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled with two-dimensional gas chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOFMS). The aroma composition, total aroma content, proportion and number of different aroma types, and the relative quantities of each compound were analyzed and evaluated. The results showed that 174 volatile aroma compounds were detected in various cultivars, mainly including esters, alcohols, aldehydes, and alkenes: Jinxiangshui had the highest total aroma content at 2825.59 ng/g; and Nanguoli had the highest number of aroma species detected at 108. The aroma composition and content varied among pear varieties, and the pears could be divided into three groups based on principal component analysis. Twenty-four kinds of aroma scents were detected; among them, fruit and aliphatic were the main fragrance types. The proportions of aroma types also varied among different varieties, visually and quantitatively displaying changes of the whole aroma of the different varieties of pears brought by the changes in aroma composition. This study contributes to further research on volatile compound analysis, and provides useful data for the improvement of fruit sensory quality and breeding work.
Differential Activities of the Botanical Extract PBI-05204 and Oleandrin on Innate Immune Functions under Viral Challenge Versus Inflammatory Culture Conditions
Authors: Jensen Gitte S. , Yu Liu , Iloba Ifeanyi , Cruickshank Dina , Matos Jose R. , Newman Robert A.
Published: June 2023

The Nerium oleander extract PBI 05204 (PBI) and its cardiac glycoside constituent oleandrin have direct anti-viral properties. Their effect on the immune system, however, is largely unknown. We used an in vitro model of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells to document effects under three different culture conditions: normal, challenged with the viral mimetic polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid Poly I:C, and inflamed by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cells were evaluated for immune activation marks CD69, CD25, and CD107a, and culture supernatants were tested for cytokines. Both PBI and oleandrin directly activated Natural Killer (NK) cells and monocytes and triggered increased production of cytokines. Under viral mimetic challenge, PBI and oleandrin enhanced the Poly I:C-mediated immune activation of monocytes and NK cells and enhanced production of IFN-γ. Under inflammatory conditions, many cytokines were controlled at similar levels as in cultures treated with PBI and oleandrin without inflammation. PBI triggered higher levels of some cytokines than oleandrin. Both products increased T cell cytotoxic attack on malignant target cells, strongest by PBI. The results show that PBI and oleandrin directly activate innate immune cells, enhance anti-viral immune responses through NK cell activation and IFN-γ levels, and modulate immune responses under inflamed conditions. The potential clinical impact of these activities is discussed.
Effects of Four Extraction Methods on Structure and In Vitro Fermentation Characteristics of Soluble Dietary Fiber from Rape Bee Pollen
Authors: Zheng Hui , Sun Yan , Zeng Yiqiong , Zheng Tao , Jia Fan , Xu Pan , Xu Yao , Cao Yuxin , He Kai , Yang Yong
Published: June 2023

In this study, soluble dietary fibers (SDFs) were extracted from rape bee pollen using four methods including acid extraction (AC), alkali extraction (AL), cellulase extraction (CL) and complex enzyme extraction (CE). The effects of different extraction methods on the structure of SDFs and in vitro fermentation characteristics were further investigated. The results showed that the four extraction methods significantly affected the monosaccharide composition molar ratio, molecular weight, surface microstructure and phenolic compounds content, but showed little effect on the typical functional groups and crystal structure. In addition, all SDFs decreased the Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio, promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Bacteroides, Parabacteroides and Phascolarctobacterium, inhibited the growth of pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia-Shigella, and increased the total short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) concentrations by 1.63–2.45 times, suggesting that the bee pollen SDFs had a positive regulation on gut microbiota. Notably, the SDF obtained by CE exhibited the largest molecular weight, a relatively loose structure, higher extraction yield and phenolic compounds content and the highest SCFA concentration. Overall, our results indicated that CE was an appropriate extraction method of high-quality bee pollen SDF.
Thymus richardii subsp. nitidus (Guss.) Jalas Essential Oil: An Ally against Oral Pathogens and Mouth Health
Authors: Castagliuolo Giusy , Di Napoli Michela , Vaglica Alessandro , Badalamenti Natale , Antonini Dario , Varcamonti Mario , Bruno Maurizio , Zanfardino Anna , Bazan Giuseppe
Published: June 2023

The genus Thymus L., belonging to the Lamiaceae family, contains about 220 species with a distribution that mainly extends in Europe, northwest Africa, Ethiopia, Asia, and southern Greenland. Due to their excellent biological properties, fresh and/or dried leaves and aerial parts of several Thymus ssp. have been utilized in the traditional medicine of many countries. To evaluate not only the chemical aspects but also the biological properties, the essential oils (EOs), obtained from the pre-flowering and flowering aerial parts of Thymus richardii subsp. nitidus (Guss.) Jalas, endemic to Marettimo Island (Sicily, Italy), were investigated. The chemical composition of the EOs, obtained by classical hydrodistillation and GC-MS and GC-FID analyses, showed the occurrence of similar amounts of monoterpene hydrocarbons, oxygenated monoterpenes, and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons. The main constituents of the pre-flowering oil were β-bisabolene (28.54%), p-cymene (24.45%), and thymol methyl ether (15.90%). The EO obtained from the flowering aerial parts showed as principal metabolites β-bisabolene (17.91%), thymol (16.26%), and limonene (15.59%). The EO of the flowering aerial parts, and its main pure constituents, β-bisabolene, thymol, limonene, p-cymene, and thymol methyl ether were investigated for their antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens and for their antibiofilm and antioxidant properties.
Activated Carbon Derived from Waste Oil Shale Semi-Coke for Supercapacitor Application
Authors: Xiong Chu’an , Wang Nan , Feng Mai
Published: June 2023

As fossil fuels gradually deplete, oil shale, one of the world’s largest energy resources, has attracted much attention. Oil shale semi-coke (OSS) is the main byproduct of oil shale pyrolysis, which is produced in large quantities and causes severe environmental pollution. Therefore, there is an urgent need to explore a method suitable for the sustainable and effective utilization of OSS. In this study, OSS was used to prepare activated carbon by microwave-assisted separation and chemical activation, which was then applied in the field of supercapacitors. Raman, XRD, FT-IR, TEM, and nitrogen adsorption–desorption were adopted to characterize activated carbon. The results showed that ACF activated with FeCl3-ZnCl2/carbon as a precursor has larger specific surface area, suitable pore size, and higher degree of graphitization compared with the materials prepared by other activation methods. The electrochemical properties of several active carbon materials were also evaluated by CV, GCD, and EIS measurements. The specific surface area of ACF is 1478 m2 g−1, when the current density is 1 A g−1, the specific capacitance is 185.0 F g−1. After 5000 cycles of testing, the capacitance retention rate was as high as 99.5%, which is expected to provide a new strategy of converting waste products to low-cost activated carbon materials for high-performance supercapacitors.
Synthesis and Characterization of Inorganic-Organic Derivatives of Layered Perovskite-like Niobate HSr2Nb3O10 with n-Amines and n-Alcohols
Authors: Khramova Alina D. , Silyukov Oleg I. , Kurnosenko Sergei A. , Malygina Ekaterina N. , Zvereva Irina A.
Published: June 2023

A protonated and hydrated Dion-Jacobson-phase HSr2Nb3O10∙yH2O was used to prepare two series of inorganic–organic derivatives containing non-covalently intercalated n-alkylamines and covalently grafted n-alkoxy groups of different lengths, as they are promising hybrid materials for photocatalytic applications. Preparation of the derivatives was carried out both under the conditions of standard laboratory synthesis and by solvothermal methods. For all the hybrid compounds synthesized structure, quantitative composition, a type of bonding between inorganic and organic parts as well as light absorption range were discussed using powder XRD, Raman, IR and NMR spectroscopy, TG, elemental CHN analysis, and DRS. It was shown that the inorganic–organic samples obtained contain approximately one interlayer organic molecule or group per proton of the initial niobate, as well as some amount of intercalated water. In addition, the thermal stability of the hybrid compounds strongly depends on the nature of the organic component anchoring to the niobate matrix. Although non-covalent amine derivatives are stable only at low temperatures, covalent alkoxy ones can withstand heat up to 250 °C without perceptible decomposition. The fundamental absorption edge of both the initial niobate and the products of its organic modification lies in the near-ultraviolet region (370–385 nm).
Extraction, Purification, Structural Characteristics, Biological Activity and Application of Polysaccharides from Portulaca oleracea L. (Purslane): A Review
Authors: Wang Meng , Li Caijiao , Li Jiaye , Hu Wenjing , Yu Aiqi , Tang Haipeng , Li Jiayan , Kuang Haixue , Zhang Huijie
Published: June 2023

Portulaca oleracea L. (purslane) is a widely distributed plant with a long history of cultivation and consumption. Notably, polysaccharides obtained from purslane exhibit surprising and satisfactory biological activities, which explain the various benefits of purslane on human health, including anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antitumor, antifatigue, antiviral and immunomodulatory effects. This article systematically reviews the extraction and purification methods, chemical structure, chemical modification, biological activity and other aspects of polysaccharides from purslane collected in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, Flora of China, Web of Science, PubMed, Baidu Scholar, Google Scholar and CNKI databases in the last 14 years, using the keywords “Portulaca oleracea L. polysaccharides” and “purslane polysaccharides”. The application of purslane polysaccharides in different fields is also summarized, and its application prospects are also discussed. This paper provides an updated and deeper understanding of purslane polysaccharides, which will provide useful guidance for the further optimization of polysaccharide structures and the development of purslane polysaccharides as a novel functional material, as well as a theoretical basis for its further research and application in human health and manufacturing development.
Characterization of Polyphenols from Chenopodium botrys after Fractionation with Different Solvents and Study of Their In Vitro Biological Activity
Authors: Bojilov Dimitar , Manolov Stanimir , Nacheva Angelika , Dagnon Soleya , Ivanov Iliyan
Published: June 2023

In the present work, we have investigated the polyphenolic composition of Chenopodium botrys from Bulgaria. The polyphenols were fractionated with solvents of varying polarity (n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol). The fractions were analyzed by HPLC-PDA and UHPLC-MS. The ethyl acetate fraction contained mono- and di-glycosides of quercetin, di-glycosides of kaempferol, and isorhamnetin and monoglycosides of hispidulin and jaceosidine. We found quercetin triglycosides in the butanol fraction. The ethyl acetate and butanol fractions contained 168.82 mg/g Extr and 67.21 mg/g Extr of quercetin glycosides, respectively. The main components of the polyphenolic complex in C. botrys were 6-methoxyflavones (355.47 mg/g Extr), which were found in the chloroform fraction. The flavonoids pectolinarigenin, demethylnobiletin, and isosinensetin, and the glycosides of quercetin (triglycosides, acylglycosides), kaempferol, isorhamnetin, hispidiulin, and jaceosidine, were discovered and reported in Chenopodium botrys for the first time. We used in vitro methods to assess the biological activity against oxidative stress (hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity (HPSA) and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity (HRSA)), nitrosative stress (nitric oxide scavenging activity (NOSA)), anti-inflammatory activity (IAD inhibition), and anti-tryptic activity (ATA). Quercetin mono- and di-glycosides exhibited greater HPSA and HRSA (IC50 = 39.18, 105.03 µg/mL), while 6-methoxyflavones had a greater NOSA (IC50 = 146.59 µg/mL). The same components showed the highest ATA (IC50 ranging from 116.23 to 202.44 µg/mL).
Are Drivers Allowed to Sleep? Sleep Inertia Effects Drivers’ Performance after Different Sleep Durations in Automated Driving
Authors: Schwarze Doreen , Diederichs Frederik , Weiser Lukas , Widlroither Harald , Verhoeven Rolf , Rötting Matthias
Published: June 2023

Higher levels of automated driving may offer the possibility to sleep in the driver’s seat in the car, and it is foreseeable that drivers will voluntarily or involuntarily fall asleep when they do not need to drive. Post-sleep performance impairments due to sleep inertia, a brief period of impaired cognitive performance after waking up, is a potential safety issue when drivers need to take over and drive manually. The present study assessed whether sleep inertia has an effect on driving and cognitive performance after different sleep durations. A driving simulator study with n = 13 participants was conducted. Driving and cognitive performance were analyzed after waking up from a 10–20 min sleep, a 30–60 min sleep, and after resting without sleep. The study’s results indicate that a short sleep duration does not reliably prevent sleep inertia. After the 10–20 min sleep, cognitive performance upon waking up was decreased, but the sleep inertia impairment faded within 15 min. Although the driving parameters showed no significant difference between the conditions, participants subjectively felt more tired after both sleep durations compared to resting. The small sample size of 13 participants, tested in a within-design, may have prevented medium and small effects from becoming significant. In our study, take-over was offered without time pressure, and take-over times ranged from 3.15 min to 4.09 min after the alarm bell, with a mean value of 3.56 min in both sleeping conditions. The results suggest that daytime naps without previous sleep deprivation result in mild and short-term impairments. Further research is recommended to understand the severity of impairments caused by different intensities of sleep inertia.
High-Quality Recrystallization of Amorphous Silicon on Si (100) Induced via Laser Annealing at the Nanoscale
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Zhu Huilong , Wang Guilei , Wang Qi , Xiao Zhongrui , Zhang Yongkui , Liu Jinbiao , Lu Shunshun , Du Yong , Yu Jiahan , Xiong Wenjuan , Kong Zhenzhen , Du Anyan , Yan Zijin , Zheng Yantong
Published: June 2023

At sub-3 nm nodes, the scaling of lateral devices represented by a fin field-effect transistor (FinFET) and gate-all-around field effect transistors (GAAFET) faces increasing technical challenges. At the same time, the development of vertical devices in the three-dimensional direction has excellent potential for scaling. However, existing vertical devices face two technical challenges: “self-alignment of gate and channel” and “precise gate length control”. A recrystallization-based vertical C-shaped-channel nanosheet field effect transistor (RC-VCNFET) was proposed, and related process modules were developed. The vertical nanosheet with an “exposed top” structure was successfully fabricated. Moreover, through physical characterization methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), conductive atomic force microscopy (C-AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the influencing factors of the crystal structure of the vertical nanosheet were analyzed. This lays the foundation for fabricating high-performance and low-cost RC-VCNFETs devices in the future.
Dual Labeling of Primary Cells with Fluorescent Gadolinium Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Brune Nadine , Mues Benedikt , Buhl Eva Miriam , Hintzen Kai-Wolfgang , Jockenhoevel Stefan , Cornelissen Christian G. , Slabu Ioana , Thiebes Anja Lena
Published: June 2023

The interest in mesenchymal stromal cells as a therapy option is increasing rapidly. To improve their implementation, location, and distribution, the properties of these must be investigated. Therefore, cells can be labeled with nanoparticles as a dual contrast agent for fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this study, a more efficient protocol for an easy synthesis of rose bengal–dextran-coated gadolinium oxide (Gd2O3-dex-RB) nanoparticles within only 4 h was established. Nanoparticles were characterized by zeta potential measurements, photometric measurements, fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy, and MRI. In vitro cell experiments with SK-MEL-28 and primary adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (ASC), nanoparticle internalization, fluorescence and MRI properties, and cell proliferation were performed. The synthesis of Gd2O3-dex-RB nanoparticles was successful, and they were proven to show adequate signaling in fluorescence microscopy and MRI. Nanoparticles were internalized into SK-MEL-28 and ASC via endocytosis. Labeled cells showed sufficient fluorescence and MRI signal. Labeling concentrations of up to 4 mM and 8 mM for ASC and SK-MEL-28, respectively, did not interfere with cell viability and proliferation. Gd2O3-dex-RB nanoparticles are a feasible contrast agent to track cells via fluorescence microscopy and MRI. Fluorescence microscopy is a suitable method to track cells in in vitro experiments with smaller samples.
Fabrication of High-Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitors Using Rice Husk-Activated Carbon and MnFe2O4 Nanostructures
Authors: Ahmed Faheem , Kumar Shalendra , Shaalan Nagih M. , Arshi Nishat , Dalela Saurabh , Chae Keun Hwa
Published: June 2023

To meet the growing demand for efficient and sustainable power sources, it is crucial to develop high-performance energy storage systems. Additionally, they should be cost-effective and able to operate without any detrimental environmental side effects. In this study, rice husk-activated carbon (RHAC), which is known for its abundance, low cost, and excellent electrochemical performance, was combined with MnFe2O4 nanostructures to improve the overall capacitance of asymmetric supercapacitors (ASCs) and their energy density. A series of activation and carbonization steps are involved in the fabrication process for RHAC from rice husk. Furthermore, the BET surface area for RHAC was determined to be 980 m2 g−1 and superior porosities (average pore diameter of 7.2 nm) provide abundant active sites for charge storage. Additionally, MnFe2O4 nanostructures were effective pseudocapacitive electrode materials due to their combined Faradic and non-Faradic capacitances. In order to assess the electrochemical performance of ASCs extensively, several characterization techniques were employed, including galvanostatic charge –discharge, cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Comparatively, the ASC demonstrated a maximum specific capacitance of ~420 F/g at a current density of 0.5 A/g. The as-fabricated ASC possesses remarkable electrochemical characteristics, including high specific capacitance, superior rate capability, and long-term cycle stability. The developed asymmetric configuration retained 98% of its capacitance even after 12,000 cycles performed at a current density of 6A/g, demonstrating its stability and reliability for supercapacitors. The present study demonstrates the potential of synergistic combinations of RHAC and MnFe2O4 nanostructures in improving supercapacitor performance, as well as providing a sustainable method of using agricultural waste for energy storage.