bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphineoxide-Chelated Europium(III) Nanoparticles for Ceftriaxone Detection
Authors: Zairov Rustem , Dovzhenko Alexey , Terekhova Natalia , Kornev Timur , Zhou Ying , Huang Zeai , Tatarinov Dmitry , Nizameeva Guliya , Fayzullin Robert R. , Gubaidullin Aidar T. , Salikhova Taliya , Enrichi Francesco , Mironov Vladimir F. , Mustafina Asiya
Published: January 2023

The present work demonstrates the optimization of the ligand structure in the series of bis(phosphine oxide) and β-ketophosphine oxide representatives for efficient coordination of Tb3+ and Eu3+ ions with the formation of the complexes exhibiting high Tb3+- and Eu3+-centered luminescence. The analysis of the stoichiometry and structure of the lanthanide complexes obtained using the XRD method reveals the great impact of the bridging group nature between two phosphine oxide moieties on the coordination mode of the ligands with Tb3+ and Eu3+ ions. The bridging imido-group facilitates the deprotonation of the imido- bis(phosphine oxide) ligand followed by the formation of tris-complexes. The spectral and PXRD analysis of the separated colloids indicates that the high stability of the tris-complexes provides their safe conversion into polystyrenesulfonate-stabilized colloids using the solvent exchange method. The red Eu3+-centered luminescence of the tris-complex exhibits the same specificity in the solutions and the colloids. The pronounced luminescent response on the antibiotic ceftriaxone allows for sensing the latter in aqueous solutions with an LOD value equal to 0.974 μM.
Improvement of Resistance Change Memory Characteristics in Ferroelectric and Antiferroelectric (like) Parallel Structures
Authors: Kho Wonwoo , Hwang Hyunjoo , Kim Jisoo , Park Gyuil , Ahn Seung-Eon
Published: January 2023

Recently, considerable attention has been paid to the development of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and big data, and high-density, high-speed storage devices are being extensively studied to realize the technology. Ferroelectrics are promising non-volatile memory materials because of their ability to maintain polarization, even when an external electric field is removed. Recently, it has been reported that HfO2 thin films compatible with complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) processes exhibit ferroelectricity even at a thickness of less than 10 nm. Among the ferroelectric-based memories, ferroelectric tunnel junctions are attracting attention as ideal devices for improving integration and miniaturization due to the advantages of a simple metal–ferroelectric–metal two-terminal structure and low ultra-low power driving through tunneling. The FTJs are driven by adjusting the tunneling electrical resistance through partial polarization switching. Theoretically and experimentally, a large memory window in a broad coercive field and/or read voltage is required to induce sophisticated partial-polarization switching. Notably, antiferroelectrics (like) have different switching properties than ferroelectrics, which are generally applied to ferroelectric tunnel junctions. The memory features of ferroelectric tunnel junctions are expected to be improved through a broad coercive field when the switching characteristics of the ferroelectric and antiferroelectric (like) are utilized concurrently. In this study, the implementation of multiresistance states was improved by driving the ferroelectric and antiferroelectric (like) devices in parallel. Additionally, by modulating the area ratio of ferroelectric and antiferroelectric (like), the memory window size was increased, and controllability was enhanced by increasing the switchable voltage region. In conclusion, we suggest that ferroelectric and antiferroelectric (like) parallel structures may overcome the limitations of the multiresistance state implementation of existing ferroelectrics.
Modification of Liquid Separation Membranes Using Multidimensional Nanomaterials: Revealing the Roles of Dimension Based on Classical Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Goh Pei Sean , Samavati Zahra , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Ng Be Cheer , Abdullah Mohd Sohaimi , Hilal Nidal
Published: January 2023

Membrane technology has become increasingly popular and important for separation processes in industries, as well as for desalination and wastewater treatment. Over the last decade, the merger of nanotechnology and membrane technology in the development of nanocomposite membranes has emerged as a rapidly expanding research area. The key motivation driving the development of nanocomposite membranes is the pursuit of high-performance liquid separation membranes that can address the bottlenecks of conventionally used polymeric membranes. Nanostructured materials in the form of zero to three-dimensions exhibit unique dimension-dependent morphology and topology that have triggered considerable attention in various fields. While the surface hydrophilicity, antibacterial, and photocatalytic properties of TiO2 are particularly attractive for liquid separation membranes, the geometry-dependent properties of the nanocomposite membrane can be further fine-tuned by selecting the nanostructures with the right dimension. This review aims to provide an overview and comments on the state-of-the-art modifications of liquid separation membrane using TiO2 as a classical example of multidimensional nanomaterials. The performances of TiO2-incorporated nanocomposite membranes are discussed with attention placed on the special features rendered by their structures and dimensions. The innovations and breakthroughs made in the synthesis and modifications of structure-controlled TiO2 and its composites have enabled fascinating and advantageous properties for the development of high-performance nanocomposite membranes for liquid separation.
Synthesis and Investigation of Physicochemical Properties and Biocompatibility of Phosphate–Vanadate Hydroxyapatite Co-Doped with Tb3+ and Sr2+ Ions
Authors: Charczuk Natalia , Nowak Nicole , Wiglusz Rafal J.
Published: January 2023

Searching for biocompatible materials with proper luminescent properties is of fundamental importance, as they can be applied in fluorescent labeling and regenerative medicine. In this study, we obtained new phosphate–vanadate hydroxyapatites (abbr. HVps) co-doped with Sr2+ and Tb3+ ions via the hydrothermal method. We focused on examining the effect of various annealing temperatures (500, 600 and 700 °C) on the spectroscopic properties and morphology of the obtained HVps. To characterize their morphology, XRPD (X-ray powder diffraction), SEM-EDS (scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive spectrometry), FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared) spectroscopy and ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry) techniques were used. A further study of luminescent properties and cytocompatibility showed that the obtained HVps co-doped with Sr2+ and Tb3+ ions are highly biocompatible and able to enhance the proliferation process and can therefore be potentially used as fluorescent probes or in regenerative medicine.
Reusable Fe2O3/TiO2/PVC Photocatalysts for the Removal of Methylene Blue in the Presence of Simulated Solar Radiation
Authors: Jagodić Ivana , Guth Imre , Lukić-Petrović Svetlana , Tamindžija Dragana , Šojić Merkulov Daniela , Finčur Nina , Bognár Szabolcs , Putnik Predrag , Banić Nemanja
Published: January 2023

Currently, environmental pollution by various organic pollutants (e.g., organic dyes) is a serious, emerging global issue. The aqueous environment is highly exposed to the harmful effects of these organic compounds. Furthermore, the commonly applied conventional purification techniques are not sufficient enough. Heterogeneous photocatalysis and the photo-Fenton process are effective, low-cost and green alternatives for the removal of organic pollutants. In this study, different iron(III) oxide/titanium(IV) oxide/polyvinyl chloride (Fe2O3/TiO2/PVC) nanocomposites in tablet form were investigated in the photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) under simulated sunlight, and their possible antibacterial effects were examined. The newly synthesized nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The results showed a hematite crystal form in the case of Fe2O3(2) and Fe2O3 samples, while the Fe2O3(1) sample showed a combination of hematite and synthetic mineral akaganeite. The highest photocatalytic efficiency was achieved in the presence of Fe2O3/TiO2/PVC, when 70.6% of MB was removed. In addition, the possible photo-cleaning and reuse of the mentioned photocatalyst was also examined. Based on the results, it can be seen that the activity did not decrease after five successive runs. Nanocomposites also exhibited mild antibacterial effects against the two tested Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus and B. cereus).
Magnesium Administration in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Vermeulen Emma A. , Vervloet Marc G.
Published: January 2023

Awareness of the clinical relevance of magnesium in medicine has increased over the last years, especially for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), due to magnesium’s role in vascular calcification and mineral metabolism. The inverse association between serum magnesium and clinically relevant, adverse outcomes is well-established in people with CKD. Subsequent intervention studies have focused on the effect of magnesium administration, mainly in relation to cardiovascular diseases, mineral bone metabolism, and other metabolic parameters. The most commonly used routes of magnesium administration are orally and by increasing dialysate magnesium. Several oral magnesium formulations are available and the daily dosage of elemental magnesium varies highly between studies, causing considerable heterogeneity. Although data are still limited, several clinical studies demonstrated that magnesium administration could improve parameters of vascular function and calcification and mineral metabolism in people with CKD. Current clinical research has shown that magnesium administration in people with CKD is safe, without concerns for severe hypermagnesemia or negative interference with bone metabolism. It should be noted that there are several ongoing magnesium intervention studies that will contribute to the increasing knowledge on the potential of magnesium administration in people with CKD.
Serum Nutritional Biomarkers and All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality in U.S. Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: The Results from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001–2006
Authors: Peng Xinwei , Zhu Jingjing , Lynn Henry S. , Zhang Xi
Published: January 2023

Background: There is limited research on the associations between serum nutritional biomarkers and mortality risk in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Existing studies merely investigated the single-biomarker effect. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the combined effect of nutritional biomarker mixtures and mortality risk using the Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) model in patients with MetS. Methods: We included the MetS patients, defined according to the 2018 Guideline on the Management of Blood Cholesterol from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001–2006. A total of 20 serum nutritional biomarkers were measured and evaluated in this study. The Cox proportional hazard model and restricted cubic spline models were used to evaluate the individual linear and non-linear association of 20 nutritional biomarkers with mortality risk. Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) was used to assess the associations between mixture of nutritional biomarkers and mortality risk. Results: A total of 1455 MetS patients had a median age of 50 years (range: 20–85). During a median of 17.1-year follow-up, 453 (24.72%) died: 146 (7.20%) caused by CVD and 87 (5.26%) by cancer. Non-linear and linear analyses indicated that, in total, eight individual biomarkers (α-carotene, β-carotene, bicarbonate, lutein/zeaxanthin, lycopene, potassium, protein, and vitamin A) were significantly associated with all-cause mortality (all p-values < 0.05). Results from BKMR showed an association between the low levels of the mixture of nutritional biomarkers and high risk of all-cause mortality with the estimated effects ranging from 0.04 to 0.14 (referent: medians). α-Carotene (PIP = 0.971) and potassium (PIP = 0.796) were the primary contributors to the combined effect of the biomarker mixture. The nutritional mixture levels were found to be negatively associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and positively associated with the risk of cancer mortality. After it was stratified by nutrients, the mixture of vitamins showed a negative association with all-cause and CVD mortality, whereas the mixture of mineral-related biomarkers was positively associated with all-cause and cancer mortality. Conclusion: Our findings support the evidence that nutritional status was associated with long-term health outcomes in MetS patients. It is necessary for MetS patients to be concerned with certain nutritional status (i.e., vitamins and mineral elements).
Virgin Coconut Oil: A Dietary Intervention for Dyslipidaemia in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Setyawati Andina , Sangkala Moh Syafar , Malasari Silvia , Jafar Nuurhidayat , Sjattar Elly L , Syahrul Syahrul , Rasyid Haerani
Published: January 2023

Hyperlipidaemia is causally related to coronary artery diseases (CAD) and peripheral artery diseases (PAD) in people with Diabetes Mellitus (DM). An in vivo study confirmed that virgin coconut oil (VCO) could maintain levels of lipids in the blood as effectively as conventional therapy. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of VCO on the lipid profiles and ankle–brachial index (ABI) of patients with DM. In this experimental study with pre- and post-test design and a control group, the participants were selected purposively. The ABI was evaluated on the first visit. Baseline lipid profile readings were taken. Each participant took 1.2 mL/kgBW of VCO daily and divided it into three doses. After 30 days of taking VCO, laboratory examinations and ABI were repeated, and adverse events were evaluated. The dependent t-test and Wilcoxon sign rank test with a significance level of α ≤ 0.05 showed a significant decrease in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (p = 0.002), a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels (p = 0.031), a significant decrease in energy intake (p = 0.046) and cholesterol intake (p = 0.023) at the endpoint in the VCO group. In conclusion, this therapy is beneficial for maintaining lipid profile when combined with dietary therapy. Future studies should investigate the duration and dosage of VCO on patients to maintain lipid-linked protein.
Association of Urinary Lead and Cadmium Levels, and Serum Lipids with Subclinical Arteriosclerosis: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Lin Chien-Yu , Hsu Sandy Huey-Jen , Chen Ching-Way , Wang Chikang , Sung Fung-Chang , Su Ta-Chen
Published: January 2023

Background: Exposure to lead and cadmium has been linked to changes in lipid metabolism and the development of arteriosclerosis, but the role of lipoprotein profiles in this relationship is not well understood, including the potential role of novel lipid biomarkers. Methods: In this study, we enrolled 736 young Taiwanese subjects aged 12 to 30 years to assess the correlation between urine levels of lead and cadmium, lipoprotein profiles, and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT). Results: Higher levels of lead and cadmium were significantly associated with higher levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), small dense LDL-C (sdLDL-C), LDL-triglyceride (LDL-TG), and CIMT. Participants with higher levels of lead and cadmium had the highest mean values of CIMT, LDL-C, sdLDL-C, and LDL-TG. In a structural equation model, lead had a direct and indirect association with CIMT through LDL-C and sdLDL-C, whereas cadmium had a direct association with CIMT and an indirect association through LDL-C. Conclusion: Our results suggest higher levels of lead and cadmium are associated with abnormal lipid profiles and increased CIMT. These heavy metals could have additive effects on lipids and CIMT, and the relationship between them may be mediated by lipoprotein levels. Further research is needed to determine the causal relationship.
Long-Term Cola Intake Does Not Cause Evident Pathological Alterations in the Femoral Bone Microstructure: An Animal Study in Adult Mice
Authors: Kovacova Veronika , Omelka Radoslav , Mondockova Vladimira , Londzin Piotr , Conka Jozef , Meliskova Veronika , Folwarczna Joanna , Celec Peter , Martiniakova Monika
Published: January 2023

Short-term animal experiments and association studies in humans have shown that cola intake may have a detrimental impact on bone mineral density (BMD); however, other bone parameters have not been investigated. This study examined the effects of long-term cola consumption on the femoral bone microstructure using adult mice (n = 32) as an animal model, which were divided into water and cola groups depending on whether they received water or cola along with a standard rodent diet for 6 months. Micro-computed tomography revealed that cola intake did not significantly affect all measured parameters characterizing trabecular bone mass and microarchitecture, as well as cortical microarchitecture and geometry in both sexes, although a slight deterioration of these parameters was noted. Cola consumption also resulted in a slightly, statistically insignificant worsening of bone mechanical properties. In contrast to female mice, males receiving cola had a lower area of primary osteons’ vascular canals. Nevertheless, long-term cola intake did not cause evident pathological alterations in the femur of adult mice, possibly due to a balanced diet and no restriction of physical activity. Therefore, the adverse effects of cola consumption on BMD, the only bone parameter studied so far, may be caused by other risk and lifestyle factors.
Evaluation of the Pragmatic Implementation of a Digital Health Intervention Promoting Healthy Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Gestational Weight Gain for Women Entering Pregnancy at a High Body Mass Index
Authors: Wilkinson Shelley A. , Fjeldsoe Brianna , Willcox Jane C.
Published: January 2023

txt4two is a multi-modality intervention promoting healthy pregnancy nutrition, physical activity (PA), and gestational weight gain (GWG), which had been previously evaluated in a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT). This study aimed to evaluate a pragmatic implementation of an adapted version of txt4two in a public tertiary hospital. Using a consecutive cohort design, txt4two was delivered to women with a pre-pregnancy BMI > 25 kg/m2, between 10 + 0 to 17 + 6 weeks. Control and intervention cohorts (n = 150) were planned, with surveys and weight measures at baseline and 36 weeks. The txt4two cohort received a dietetic goal-setting appointment and program (SMS, website, and videos). The navigation of disparate hospital systems and the COVID-19 pandemic saw adaptation and adoption take two years. The intervention cohort (n = 35; 43% full data) demonstrated significant differences (mean (SD)), compared to the control cohort (n = 97; 45% full data) in vegetable intake (+0.9 (1.2) versus +0.1 (0.7), p = 0.03), fiber-diet quality index (+0.6 (0.8) versus 0.1 (0.5), p = 0.012), and total diet quality index (+0.7 (1.1) versus +0.2 (±0.6), p = 0.008), but not for PA or GWG. Most (85.7%) intervention participants found txt4two extremely or moderately useful, and 92.9% would recommend it. Embedding the program in a non-RCT context raised implementation challenges. Understanding the facilitators and barriers to adaptation and adoption will strengthen the evidence for the refinement of implementation plans.
Targeting Iron Metabolism and Ferroptosis as Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Chen Yufei , Li Xueting , Wang Siyuan , Miao Ran , Zhong Jiuchang
Published: January 2023

Iron functions as an essential micronutrient and participates in normal physiological and biochemical processes in the cardiovascular system. Ferroptosis is a novel type of iron-dependent cell death driven by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation, characterized by depletion of glutathione and suppression of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4). Dysregulation of iron metabolism and ferroptosis have been implicated in the occurrence and development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including hypertension, atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, cardiomyopathy, and heart failure. Iron chelators deferoxamine and dexrazoxane, and lipophilic antioxidants ferrostatin-1 and liproxstatin-1 have been revealed to abolish ferroptosis and suppress lipid peroxidation in atherosclerosis, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, and other CVDs. Notably, inhibition of ferroptosis by ferrostatin-1 has been demonstrated to alleviate cardiac impairments, fibrosis and pathological remodeling during hypertension by potentiating GPX4 signaling. Administration of deferoxamine improved myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury by inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Several novel small molecules may be effective in the treatment of ferroptosis-mediated CVDs. In this article, we summarize the regulatory roles and underlying mechanisms of iron metabolism dysregulation and ferroptosis in the occurrence and development of CVDs. Targeting iron metabolism and ferroptosis are potential therapeutic strategies in the prevention and treatment of hypertension and other CVDs.
Coulomb Force from Non-Local Self-Assembly of Multi-Peak Densities in a Charged Space Continuum
Authors: Bulyzhenkov Igor É.
Published: January 2023

Maxwell’s electrodynamics admits radial charge densities of the elementary organization with one vertex of the spherical symmetry. A multi-vertex distribution of sharply inhomogeneous charge densities can also be described by monistic field solutions to Maxwell’s equations–equalities. Coulomb–Lorentz forces are exerted locally to correlated electric densities in their volume organization with the fixed self-energy integral. The long-range Coulomb interaction between the dense peaks of the charged space continuum can be described quantitatively through bulk integrals of local tensions within observable bodies in favor of the monistic all-unity in the material space physics of Descartes and Russian cosmists.
Selective 5-HT6 Receptor Ligands (Agonist and Antagonist) Show Different Effects on Antipsychotic Drug-Induced Metabolic Dysfunctions in Rats
Authors: Partyka Anna , Górecka Katarzyna , Gdula-Argasińska Joanna , Wilczyńska-Zawal Natalia , Jastrzębska-Więsek Magdalena , Wesołowska Anna
Published: January 2023

It is estimated that in patients taking antipsychotic drugs (APDs), metabolic syndrome occurs 2–3 times more often than in the general population. It manifests itself in abdominal obesity, elevated glucose concentration, and dyslipidemia. Despite the high prevalence of this disorder, only a small percentage of patients receive appropriate and effective treatment, and none of the available methods for preventing or treating APD-induced metabolic side effects is satisfactory. A promising supplement to antipsychotic therapy appears to be ligands of the serotonin 6 (5-HT6) receptor. The present study aimed to examine the chronic effects of the selected APDs (haloperidol, risperidone, olanzapine), administered alone and in combination with a selective 5-HT6 agonist (WAY-181187) or antagonist (SB-742457), on weight gain, food intake, serum lipid profile, glucose level, and a spectrum of hormones derived from adipose (leptin, adiponectin) and gastrointestinal (insulin, ghrelin) tissue in rats. SB-742457 inhibited increased weight gain and alleviated hyperglycemia induced by APDs more strongly than did WAY-181187, but also intensified dyslipidemia. WAY-181187 tended to improve the lipid profile, but increased the glucose level. The greatest benefits were obtained when WAY-181187 or SB-742457 were co-administered with haloperidol. It is difficult to assess whether the modification of the serum levels of insulin, leptin, ghrelin, and adiponectin depended on the treatment applied or other drug-independent factors; therefore, further research is needed.
Topical Administration of a Nanoformulation of Chitosan-Hyaluronic Acid-Epoetin Beta in a Rat Model of Glaucoma
Authors: Silva Beatriz , Gonçalves Lídia M. , Braz Berta São , Delgado Esmeralda
Published: January 2023

The present work investigates the effects of chitosan-hyaluronic acid-epoetin beta (CS/HA-EPOβ) nanoparticles after topical ocular administration in a rat glaucoma model. Wistar Hannover rats (n = 24) were submitted to a complete ophthalmological examination and electroretinography, followed by glaucoma induction in their right eye on day 1 of the study. Treatment group (T) received CS/HA-EPOβ nanocarriers (n = 12), while the control group (C) received only empty ones. Electroretinography was repeated on day 3 (n = 24) and before euthanasia on day 7 (n = 8), 14 (n = 8), and 21 (n = 8), followed by bilateral enucleation and histological assessment. The animals showed good tolerance to the nanoformulation. Maximum IOP values on the right eye occurred shortly after glaucoma induction (T = 62.6 ± 8.3 mmHg; C = 63.6 ± 7.9 mmHg). Animals from the treated group presented a tendency for faster recovery of retinal electrical activity (p > 0.05). EPOβ was detected on the retina of all treated eyes using immunofluorescence. Control animals presented with thinner retinas compared to the treated ones (p < 0.05). Therefore, topical ocular administration of CS/HA-EPOβ nanoparticles enabled EPOβ delivery to the retina of glaucomatous rats and promoted an earlier retinal recovery, confirming EPOβ’s neuroprotective effects. The encouraging results of this preclinical study pave the way for new strategies for topical ocular administration of neuroprotective compounds.
Tumor Microenvironment-Responsive Magnetic Nanofluid for Enhanced Tumor MRI and Tumor multi-treatments
Authors: Sheng Liangju , Zhu Xuanlei , Sun Miao , Lan Zhe , Yang Yong , Xin Yuanrong , Li Yuefeng
Published: January 2023

We prepared a tumor microenvironment-responsive magnetic nanofluid (MNF) for improving tumor targeting, imaging and treatment simultaneously. For this purpose, we synthesized sulfonamide-based amphiphilic copolymers with a suitable pKa at 7.0; then, we utilized them to prepare the tumor microenvironment-responsive MNF by self-assembly of the sulfonamide-based amphiphilic copolymers and hydrophobic monodispersed Fe3O4 nanoparticles at approximately 8 nm. After a series of characterizations, the MNF showed excellent application potential due to the fact of its high stability under physiological conditions and its hypersensitivity toward tumor stroma by forming aggregations within neutral or weak acidic environments. Due to the fact of its tumor microenvironment-responsiveness, the MNF showed great potential for accumulation in tumors, which could enhance MNF-mediated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic hyperthermia (MH) and Fenton reaction (FR) in tumor. Moreover, in vitro cell experiment did not only show high biocompatibility of tumor microenvironment-responsive MNF in physiological environment, but also exhibit high efficacy on inhibiting cell proliferation by MH-dependent chemodynamic therapy (CDT), because CDT was triggered and promoted efficiently by MH with increasing strength of alternating magnetic field. Although the current research is limited to in vitro study, these positive results still suggest the great potential of the MNF on effective targeting, diagnosis, and therapy of tumor.
Tumor-Targeted Erythrocyte Membrane Nanoparticles for Theranostics of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Choi Moon Jung , Lee Yeon Kyung , Choi Kang Chan , Lee Do Hyun , Jeong Hwa Yeon , Kang Seong Jae , Kim Min Woo , You Young Myoung , Im Chan Su , Lee Tae Sup , Park Yong Serk
Published: January 2023

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells do not contain various receptors for targeted treatment, a reason behind the poor prognosis of this disease. In this study, biocompatible theranostic erythrocyte-derived nanoparticles (EDNs) were developed and evaluated for effective early diagnosis and treatment of TNBC. The anti-cancer drug, doxorubicin (DOX), was encapsulated into the EDNs and diagnostic quantum dots (QDs) were incorporated into the lipid bilayers of EDNs for tumor bio-imaging. Then, anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody molecules were conjugated to the surface of EDNs for TNBC targeting (iEDNs). According to the confocal microscopic analyses and biodistribution assay, iEDNs showed a higher accumulation in EGFR-positive MDA-MB-231 cancers in vitro as well as in vivo, compared to untargeted EDNs. iEDNs containing doxorubicin (iEDNs-DOX) showed a stronger inhibition of target tumor growth than untargeted ones. The resulting anti-EGFR iEDNs exhibited strong biocompatibility, prolonged blood circulation, and efficient targeting of TNBC in mice. Therefore, iEDNs may be used as potential TNBC-targeted co-delivery systems for therapeutics and diagnostics.
Antiviral Peptide-Based Conjugates: State of the Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: Todorovski Toni , Kalafatovic Daniela , Andreu David
Published: January 2023

Infectious diseases caused by microbial pathogens (bacteria, virus, fungi, parasites) claim millions of deaths per year worldwide and have become a serious challenge to global human health in our century. Viral infections are particularly notable in this regard, not only because humankind is facing some of the deadliest viral pandemics in recent history, but also because the arsenal of drugs to combat the high levels of mutation, and hence the antigenic variability of (mostly RNA) viruses, is disturbingly scarce. Therefore, the search for new antivirals able to successfully fight infection with minimal or no adverse effects on the host is a pressing task. Traditionally, antiviral therapies have relied on relatively small-sized drugs acting as proteases, polymerases, integrase inhibitors, etc. In recent decades, novel approaches involving targeted delivery such as that achieved by peptide–drug conjugates (PDCs) have gained attention as alternative (pro)drugs for tackling viral diseases. Antiviral PDC therapeutics typically involve one or more small drug molecules conjugated to a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) carrier either directly or through a linker. Such integration of two bioactive elements into a single molecular entity is primarily aimed at achieving improved bioavailability in conditions where conventional drugs are challenged, but may also turn up novel unexpected functionalities and applications. Advances in peptide medicinal chemistry have eased the way to antiviral PDCs, but challenges remain on the way to therapeutic success. In this paper, we review current antiviral CPP–drug conjugates (antiviral PDCs), with emphasis on the types of CPP and antiviral cargo. We integrate the conjugate and the chemical approaches most often applied to combine both entities. Additionally, we comment on various obstacles faced in the design of antiviral PDCs and on the future outlooks for this class of antiviral therapeutics.
Extracellular Vesicles as New Players in Drug Delivery: A Focus on Red Blood Cells-Derived EVs
Authors: Biagiotti Sara , Abbas Faiza , Montanari Mariele , Barattini Chiara , Rossi Luigia , Magnani Mauro , Papa Stefano , Canonico Barbara
Published: January 2023

The article is divided into several sections, focusing on extracellular vesicles’ (EVs) nature, features, commonly employed methodologies and strategies for their isolation/preparation, and their characterization/visualization. This work aims to give an overview of advances in EVs’ extensive nanomedical-drug delivery applications. Furthermore, considerations for EVs translation to clinical application are summarized here, before focusing the review on a special kind of extracellular vesicles, the ones derived from red blood cells (RBCEVs). Generally, employing EVs as drug carriers means managing entities with advantageous properties over synthetic vehicles or nanoparticles. Besides the fact that certain EVs also reveal intrinsic therapeutic characteristics, in regenerative medicine, EVs nanosize, lipidomic and proteomic profiles enable them to pass biologic barriers and display cell/tissue tropisms; indeed, EVs engineering can further optimize their organ targeting. In the second part of the review, we focus our attention on RBCEVs. First, we describe the biogenesis and composition of those naturally produced by red blood cells (RBCs) under physiological and pathological conditions. Afterwards, we discuss the current procedures to isolate and/or produce RBCEVs in the lab and to load a specific cargo for therapeutic exploitation. Finally, we disclose the most recent applications of RBCEVs at the in vitro and preclinical research level and their potential industrial exploitation. In conclusion, RBCEVs can be, in the near future, a very promising and versatile platform for several clinical applications and pharmaceutical exploitations.
Influence of the Volatility of Solvent on the Reproducibility of Droplet Formation in Pharmaceutical Inkjet Printing
Authors: Mau Robert , Seitz Hermann
Published: January 2023

Drop-on-demand (DOD) inkjet printing enables exact dispensing and positioning of single droplets in the picoliter range. In this study, we investigate the long-term reproducibility of droplet formation of piezoelectric inkjet printed drug solutions using solvents with different volatilities. We found inkjet printability of EtOH/ASA drug solutions is limited, as there is a rapid forming of drug deposits on the nozzle of the printhead because of fast solvent evaporation. Droplet formation of c = 100 g/L EtOH/ASA solution was affected after only a few seconds by little drug deposits, whereas for c = 10 g/L EtOH/ASA solution, a negative affection was observed only after t = 15 min, while prominent drug deposits form at the printhead tip. Due to the creeping effect, the crystallizing structures of ASA spread around the nozzle but do not clog it necessarily. When there is a negative affection, the droplet trajectory is affected the most, while the droplet volume and droplet velocity are influenced less. In contrast, no formation of drug deposits could be observed for highly concentrated, low volatile DMSO-based drug solution of c = 100 g/L even after a dispensing time of t = 30 min. Therefore, low volatile solvents are preferable to highly volatile solvents to ensure a reproducible droplet formation in long-term inkjet printing of highly concentrated drug solutions. Highly volatile solvents require relatively low drug concentrations and frequent printhead cleaning. The findings of this study are especially relevant when high droplet positioning precision is desired, e.g., drug loading of microreservoirs or drug-coating of microneedle devices.
Co-Encapsulation of Simvastatin and Doxorubicin into pH-Sensitive Liposomes Enhances Antitumoral Activity in Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Duarte Jaqueline Aparecida , Gomes Eliza Rocha , De Barros André Luis Branco , Leite Elaine Amaral
Published: January 2023

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent chemotherapeutic drug used as the first line in breast cancer treatment; however, cardiotoxicity is the main drawback of the therapy. Preclinical studies evidenced that the association of simvastatin (SIM) with DOX leads to a better prognosis with reduced side effects and deaths. In this work, a novel pH-sensitive liposomal formulation capable of co-encapsulating DOX and SIM at different molar ratios was investigated for its potential in breast tumor treatment. Studies on physicochemical characterization of the liposomal formulations were carried out. The cytotoxic effects of DOX, SIM, and their combinations at different molar ratios (1:1; 1:2 and 2:1), free or co-encapsulated into pH-sensitive liposomes, were evaluated against three human breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, and SK-BR-3). Experimental protocols included cell viability, combination index, nuclear morphological changes, and migration capacity. The formulations showed a mean diameter of less than 200 nm, with a polydispersity index lower than 0.3. The encapsulation content was ~100% and ~70% for DOX and SIM, respectively. A more pronounced inhibitory effect on breast cancer cell lines was observed at a DOX:SIM molar ratio of 2:1 in both free and encapsulated drugs. Furthermore, the 2:1 ratio showed synergistic combination rates for all concentrations of cell inhibition analyzed (50, 75, and 90%). The results demonstrated the promising potential of the co-encapsulated liposome for breast tumor treatment.
Interactions between DMPC Model Membranes, the Drug Naproxen, and the Saponin β-Aescin
Authors: Hägerbäumer Pia , Gräbitz-Bräuer Friederike , Annegarn Marco , Dargel Carina , Stank Tim Julian , Bizien Thomas , Hellweg Thomas
Published: January 2023

In this study, the interplay among the phospholipid 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DMPC) as a model membrane, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug naproxen, and the saponin β-aescin are investigated. The naproxen amount was fixed to 10 mol%, and the saponin amount varies from 0.0 to 1.0 mol%. Both substances are common ingredients in pharmaceutics; therefore, it is important to obtain deeper knowledge of their impact on lipid membranes. The size and properties of the DMPC model membrane upon naproxen and aescin addition were characterized with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS, WAXS), and photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS) in a temperature-dependent study. The interaction of all substances was dependent on the lipid phase state, which itself depends on the lipid’s main phase transition temperature Tm. The incorporation of naproxen and aescin distorted the lipid membrane structure and lowers Tm. Below Tm, the DMPC–naproxen–aescin mixtures showed a vesicle structure, and the insertion of naproxen and aescin influenced neither the lipid chain–chain correlation distance nor the membrane thickness. Above Tm, the insertion of both molecules instead induced the formation of correlated bilayers and a decrease in the chain–chain correlation distance. The presented data clearly confirm the interaction of naproxen and aescin with DMPC model membranes. Moreover, the incorporation of both additives into the model membranes is evidenced.
Highly Dispersive Optical Solitons in Absence of Self-Phase Modulation by Laplace-Adomian Decomposition
Authors: González-Gaxiola Oswaldo , Biswas Anjan , Moraru Luminita , Moldovanu Simona
Published: January 2023

This article studies highly dispersive optical solitons without of self-phase modulation effect. The numerical algorithm implemented in this work is Laplace-Adomian decomposition method. Both bright and dark solitons are addressed. The error measure for the adopted scheme is impressively low.
Study on Supermode Control of External Cavity VCSEL Array with Parallel-Coupled Model
Authors: Wen Congyang , Li Wei , Dai Jingjing , Ma Shufang , Wang Zhiyong
Published: January 2023

A vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) is easily made into a two-dimensional array to improve its output power. However, if the near-field complex amplitude output cannot be stabilized in the lowest supermode generated by the fundamental transverse mode, the spot cannot converge on the center normal of the far-field array geometry, and the energy will be diverged. The external cavity is prepared for the VCSEL array, and the output of the array can be stabilized in the lowest order supermode generated by the fundamental transverse mode by supermode control through diffraction coupling. In this study, the parallel-coupled model for the 2-dimensional VCSEL array based on Fresnel diffraction integration was established and used to numerically calculate and analyze the influence on the supermodes’ thresholds of different array distributions, array elements’ transverse modes and duty ratios versus the length of the external cavity. The simulation results show that the square array provides a wider range of external cavity control length (0.2d2/λ and approximately 0.9 to 1.0d2/λ). The lowest supermode of the fundamental transverse mode can be outputted. For the regular hexagonal array with the length of the external cavity of 0.15d2/λ and 0.6d2/λ. The results have important reference significance for the design of an external cavity VCSEL array, which can control the supermode and obtain VCSEL coherent array beams with high power and near diffraction limits.
Riceberry Rice Germination and UVB Radiation Enhance Protocatechuic Acid and Vanillic Acid to Reduce Cellular Oxidative Stress and Suppress B16F10 Melanogenesis Relating to F-Actin Rearrangement
Authors: Aimvijarn Parichaya , Payuhakrit Witchuda , Charoenchon Nisamanee , Okada Seiji , Suwannalert Prasit
Published: January 2023

Ultraviolet type B (UVB) radiation plays an important role in hyperpigmentation disorder, which induces cellular oxidative stress and causes abnormal melanin production and secretion. The stress condition plays an essential role in actin polymerization relating to F-actin rearrangement and forms dendrite to send melanin pigment to the uppermost layer of the skin. Phenolic compounds are secondary metabolites that mainly synthesize under stress conditions to protect plants from harmful environments and have been reported as effective agents in anti-oxidant and anti-melanogenesis. However, the influence of phenolic compounds on F-actin rearrangement-associated dendrite formation has not been studied so far. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the enhancing phytophenolic targets in riceberry rice (Oryza sativa L.) germination and UVB radiation (RR-GR) to suppress melanogenesis relating to F-rearrangement. As a result, the RR-GR had the potential to enhance phenolic acids such as protocatechuic and vanillic acid, which have been proven to possess anti-oxidant activity and anti-tyrosinase properties. Riceberry rice’s modification showed the potential to reduce cellular oxidative stress and suppress B16F10 melanogenesis relating to F-actin rearrangement that is associated with dendrite formation.
Metabolomics as a Tool to Understand Nano-Plant Interactions: The Case Study of Metal-Based Nanoparticles
Authors: Silva Sónia , Dias Maria Celeste , Pinto Diana C. G. A. , Silva Artur M. S.
Published: January 2023

Metabolomics is a powerful tool in diverse research areas, enabling an understanding of the response of organisms, such as plants, to external factors, their resistance and tolerance mechanisms against stressors, the biochemical changes and signals during plant development, and the role of specialized metabolites. Despite its advantages, metabolomics is still underused in areas such as nano-plant interactions. Nanoparticles (NPs) are all around us and have a great potential to improve and revolutionize the agri-food sector and modernize agriculture. They can drive precision and sustainability in agriculture as they can act as fertilizers, improve plant performance, protect or defend, mitigate environmental stresses, and/or remediate soil contaminants. Given their high applicability, an in-depth understanding of NPs’ impact on plants and their mechanistic action is crucial. Being aware that, in nano-plant interaction work, metabolomics is much less addressed than physiology, and that it is lacking a comprehensive review focusing on metabolomics, this review gathers the information available concerning the metabolomic tools used in studies focused on NP-plant interactions, highlighting the impact of metal-based NPs on plant metabolome, metabolite reconfiguration, and the reprogramming of metabolic pathways.
Mitigating the Effect of Climate Change within the Cereal Sector: Improving Rheological and Baking Properties of Strong Gluten Wheat Doughs by Blending with Specialty Grains
Authors: Rumler Rubina , Bender Denisse , Schoenlechner Regine
Published: January 2023

Due to the effect of climate change, wheat flour qualities with extremely high dough extensibility or dough strength are becoming more common, which impairs the production of selected wheat products such as pastries. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of sorghum, millet, amaranth, or buckwheat addition to such a strong gluten common wheat flour (Triticum aestivum) on its rheological and baking properties. Raw materials were analyzed chemically (ash, protein, fat, starch, total dietary fiber) and physically (water absorption index, water solubility index, and pasting properties). Selected rheological analyses (Farinograph® and Extensograph®) were carried out on wheat blends, including up to 30% alternative grains. The baking properties of the blends were evaluated on standard bread and sweet milk bread recipes. Results showed that low amounts (5%) of sorghum and millet improved the dough stability of the high-gluten wheat flour. For optimum dough extensibility, additions of 30% sorghum, 15% millet, or 20% amaranth were needed. The use of gluten-free grains increased bread volume and decreased crumb firmness of the sweet milk breads when added at lower levels (5–15%, depending on the grain). In conclusion, cereal blending is a supportive tool to mitigate the effects of ongoing climate change and can enhance biodiversity and nutrition.
Characterization of the Slovene Autochthonous Rose Hybrid Rosa pendulina × spinosissima (Rosa reversa Waldst. and Kit) Using Biochemical Patterns of the Plant Blossoms
Authors: Kunc Nina , Hudina Metka , Bavcon Jože , Vreš Branko , Luthar Zlata , Gostinčar Kristina , Mikulič-Petkovšek Maja , Osterc Gregor , Ravnjak Blanka
Published: January 2023

The Rosa genus is characterized by great variability and, consequently, they easily hybridize. The petals of R. pendulina, R. spinosissima and their hybrid Rosa pendulina × spinosissima, collected in western Slovenia, were included in the research. We performed morphometric analysis using keys to determine roses and genetic analysis to determine the genome size. The phenolic compound content in petals of all rose flowers was measured by liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Using flow cytometry, we could confirm the native hybridization process due to the amount of 2C DNA. The value of R. pendulina was 1.71 pg, of R. spinosissima 1.60 pg and of the hybrid 1.62 pg. The value for the hybrid was close to values measured for parent plants and, at the same time, those values of parent plants significantly differed from each other. Our results showed that the content of phenolic compounds in petals decreased after crossing. We found that the highest total phenolic content (178.9 g/kg FW) was measured in R. spinossisima, the lowest content was analyzed for the hybrid (84.36 g/kg FW) and the content for R. pendulina was between these two values (110.58 g/kg FW). The content of flavanols and flavonols was lowest in the hybrid petals, whereas the content of anthocyanins was highest in the hybrid petals.