bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis A6 Enhances Fatty Acid β-Oxidation of Adipose Tissue to Ameliorate the Development of Obesity in Mice
Authors: Huo Yanxiong , Zhao Guoping , Li Jinwang , Wang Ran , Ren Fazheng , Li Yixuan , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: January 2022

Fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO) is confirmed to be impaired in obesity, especially in adipose tissues. We previously proved that Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis A6 (BAA6) had protective effects against diet-induced obesity. However, whether BAA6 enhances FAO to ameliorate the development of obesity has not been explored. After being fed with high-fat diet (HFD) for 9 weeks, male C57BL/6J mice were fed HFD or BAA6 for 8 weeks. In vitro study was carried out using 3T3-L1 adipocytes to determine the effect of BAA6 culture supernatant (BAA6-CM). Here, we showed that administration of BAA6 to mice fed with HFD decreased body weight gain (by 5.03 g) and significantly up-regulated FAO in epididymal adipose tissues. In parallel, FAO in 3T3-L1 cells was increased after BAA6-CM treatment. Acetate was identified as a constituent of BAA6-CM that showed a similar effect to BAA6-CM. Furthermore, acetate treatment activated the GPR43-PPARα signaling, thereby promoting FAO in 3T3-L1 cells. The levels of acetate were also elevated in serum and feces (by 1.92- and 2.27-fold) of HFD-fed mice following BAA6 administration. The expression levels of GPR43 and PPARα were increased by 55.45% and 69.84% after BAA6 supplement in the epididymal fat of mice. Together, these data reveal that BAA6 promotes FAO of adipose tissues through the GPR43-PPARα signaling, mainly by increasing acetate levels, leading to alleviating the development of obesity.
Protective Effect of MFG-E8 on Necroptosis-Induced Intestinal Inflammation and Enteroendocrine Cell Function in Diabetes
Authors: Hua Xiaomin , Li Baoying , Yu Fei , Zhao Wenqian , Tan Yuwei , Li Xiaoli , Fu Chunli , Yu Xin , Gao Haiqing , Cheng Mei
Published: January 2022

Low-grade inflammation is one of the characteristics of metabolic disorders induced by diabetes mellitus. The present study explores the underlying mechanism of milk fat globule epidermal growth factor 8 (MFG-E8) on necroptosis-induced intestinal inflammation and intestinal epithelial endocrine cell dysfunction in diabetes. Compared with the normal control group, pathological changes such as blunt and shortened villus and denuded villus tips were observed in ileum tissue of streptozotocin (STZ) induced senescence-resistant 1 (SAMR1) and senescence-accelerated prone 8 (SAMP8) diabetic mice under light microscope. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC) displayed significantly decreased protein expression of MFG-E8 in SAMR1 and SAMP8 diabetic mice, accompanied by an increased expression of phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain-like (p-MLKL) and HMGB1. In addition, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) significantly increased the pro-inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and HMGB1 by activating the receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3)/MLKL signaling pathway in enteroendocrine STC-1 cells. D-pinitol pretreatment markedly attenuated the release of pro-inflammatory mediators and increased the expression of MFG-E8. MFG-E8 small interfering RNA (siRNA) promoted, while MFG-E8 overexpression inhibited, the activation of receptor-interacting proteins (RIPs) pathway and pro-inflammatory factors. Our study demonstrated that downregulation of MFG-E8 is an important phenomenon in the pathogenesis of diabetes-related intestinal inflammatory damage. MFG-E8 overexpression and D-pinitol intervention could protect against necroptosis-induced intestinal inflammation and maintain the function of enteroendocrine STC-1 cells in diabetes.
Lower Amounts of Daily and Prolonged Sitting Do Not Lower Free-Living Continuously Monitored Glucose Concentrations in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Randomised Crossover Study
Authors: Bailey Daniel P. , Stringer Charlotte A. , Maylor Benjamin D. , Zakrzewski-Fruer Julia K.
Published: January 2022

This study compared the short-term continuously monitored glucose responses between higher and lower amounts of prolonged sitting in overweight and obese adults under free-living conditions. In a randomised crossover design, 12 participants (age 48 ± 10 years, body mass index 33.3 ± 5.5 kg/m2) completed two four-day experimental regimens while wearing a continuous glucose monitor, as follows: (1) uninterrupted sitting (participants were instructed to sit for ≥10 h/day and accrue ≥7, 1 h sitting bouts each day), and (2) interrupted sitting (participants were instructed to interrupt sitting every 30 min during ten of their waking hours with 6–10 min of activity accrued in each hour). Linear mixed models compared outcomes between regimens. None of the continuously monitored glucose variables differed between regimens, e.g., 24 h net incremental area under the glucose curve was 5.9 [95% CI: −1.4, 13.1] and 5.6 [95% CI: −1.7, 12.8] mmol/L∙24 h, respectively (p = 0.47). Daily sitting (−58 min/day, p = 0.001) and sitting bouts lasting ≥30 min (−99 min/day, p < 0.001) were significantly lower and stepping time significantly higher (+40 min/day, p < 0.001) in the interrupted sitting than the uninterrupted sitting regimen. In conclusion, lower amounts of daily and prolonged sitting did not improve free-living continuously measured glucose among overweight and obese adults.
Nutraceuticals for Dyslipidaemia and Glucometabolic Diseases: What the Guidelines Tell Us (and Do Not Tell, Yet)
Authors: Casula Manuela , Catapano Alberico Luigi , Magni Paolo
Published: January 2022

Background: The use of nutraceutical products and functional foods in the cardiovascular and metabolic field is rising in several countries. Preparation and implementation of guidelines are pivotal for translating research-derived knowledge and evidence-based medicine to the clinical practice. Based on these considerations, the aim of this paper is to explore if and how nutraceutical products are discussed by the most recent international guidelines related to cardio-metabolic diseases (dyslipidaemia, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention). Some, but not all, guidelines for dyslipidaemia mention nutraceutical products as potential useful options for the treatment of mild dyslipidaemia, but also indicate the low level of evidence associated to their effects on hard endpoints (myocardial infarction, stroke, CVD-related death). In the most recent guidelines on obesity, it is mentioned that no safe and effective dietary supplement nor nutraceutical product is available for the management of weight loss in this condition, and more high-quality studies are necessary in this field. The examined guidelines for T2DM do not mention any specific nutraceutical approach to this disease, nor to milder forms, such as insulin resistance and pre-diabetes. Conclusions: The focus on nutraceutical products in the main international guidelines for cardio-metabolic disease management remains limited. Since robust scientific evidence is the background of useful and effective guidelines, the implementation of high-quality clinical research is strongly needed in the field of nutraceutical products for cardio-metabolic diseases.
First Molecular Identification of Caligus clemensi on Cultured Crimson Snapper Lutjanus erythropterus on Jerejak Island, Penang, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Yahaya Zary Shariman , Azizah Mohd Nor Siti , Alkazmi Luay , Ravi Rajiv , Awosolu Oluwaseun Bunmi
Published: January 2022

Fish parasites such as Caligus clemensi are a serious concern for cultured fish in many regions of the world, including Malaysia. This study was designed to elucidate the parasites’ prevalence and intensity coupled with the morphology and molecular identification of C. clemensi on cultured Lutjanus erythropterus in Jerejak Island, Penang, Peninsular Malaysia. The study was carried out on 200 fish specimens of cultured L. erythropterus obtained from the GST group aquaculture farm. Parasites were collected from the infested part of L. erythropterus fish, and their prevalence and intensity were determined. The parasites were identified morphologically using a field emission scanning electron microscope. Molecular studies were performed through PCR amplification and sequencing. MEGA 5 was used to construct a phylogenetic tree using the pairwise distance method. The results showed that only the C. clemensi parasite was found prevalent on L. erythropterus fish with a prevalence and mean intensity (S.D) of 198 (99%) and 36.4 ± 12.2, respectively. The prevalence varied significantly with respect to fish length (p < 0.05). The nucleotide BLAST sequence for 18S ribosomal RNA partial sequences showed 97% with 100% query similarity, E-value 0 with C. clemensi with the accession number DQ123833.1. Conclusively, C. clemensi remains a major parasite of L. erythropterus in the study area.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Pathogens in 2021
Authors:   Pathogens Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
The Nitrobenzoxadiazole Derivative NBDHEX Behaves as Plasmodium falciparum Gametocyte Selective Inhibitor with Malaria Parasite Transmission Blocking Activity
Authors: Siciliano Giulia , Di Paolo Veronica , Rotili Dante , Migale Rossella , Pedini Francesca , Casella Marialuisa , Camerini Serena , Dalzoppo Daniele , Henderson Rob , Huijs Tonnie , Dechering Koen J. , Mai Antonello , Caccuri Anna Maria , Lalle Marco , Quintieri Luigi , Alano Pietro
Published: January 2022

This work describes the activity of 6-((7-nitrobenzo[c][1,2,5]oxadiazol-4-yl)thio)hexan-1-ol (NBDHEX) and of its newly identified carboxylic acid metabolite on the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. NBDHEX has been previously identified as a potent cytotoxic agent against murine and human cancer cells as well as towards the protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis. We show here that NBDHEX is active in vitro against all blood stages of P. falciparum, with the rare feature of killing the parasite stages transmissible to mosquitoes, the gametocytes, with a 4-fold higher potency than that on the pathogenic asexual stages. This activity importantly translates into blocking parasite transmission through the Anopheles vector in mosquito experimental infections. A mass spectrometry analysis identified covalent NBDHEX modifications in specific cysteine residues of five gametocyte proteins, possibly associated with its antiparasitic effect. The carboxylic acid metabolite of NBDHEX retains the gametocyte preferential inhibitory activity of the parent compound, making this novel P. falciparum transmission-blocking chemotype at least as a new tool to uncover biological processes targetable by gametocyte selective drugs. Both NBDHEX and its carboxylic acid metabolite show very limited in vitro cytotoxicity on VERO cells. This result and previous evidence that NBDHEX shows an excellent in vivo safety profile in mice and is orally active against human cancer xenografts make these molecules potential starting points to develop new P. falciparum transmission-blocking agents, enriching the repertoire of drugs needed to eliminate malaria.
Two out of Three Musketeers Fight against Cancer: Synthesis, Physicochemical, and Biological Properties of Phosphino CuI, RuII, IrIII Complexes
Authors: Komarnicka Urszula K. , Niorettini Alessandro , Kozieł Sandra , Pucelik Barbara , Barzowska Agata , Wojtala Daria , Ziółkowska Aleksandra , Lesiów Monika , Kyzioł Agnieszka , Caramori Stefano , Porchia Marina , Bieńko Alina
Published: January 2022

Two novel phosphine ligands, Ph2PCH2N(CH2CH3)3 (1) and Ph2PCH2N(CH2CH2CH2CH3)2 (2), and six new metal (Cu(I), Ir(III) and Ru(II)) complexes with those ligands: iridium(III) complexes: Ir(η5-Cp*)Cl2(1) (1a), Ir(η5-Cp*)Cl2(2) (2a) (Cp*: Pentamethylcyclopentadienyl); ruthenium(II) complexes: Ru(η6-p-cymene)Cl2(1) (1b), Ru(η6-p-cymene)Cl2(2) (2b) and copper(I) complexes: [Cu(CH3CN)2(1)BF4] (1c), [Cu(CH3CN)2(2)BF4] (2c) were synthesized and characterized using elemental analysis, NMR spectroscopy, and ESI-MS spectrometry. Copper(I) complexes turned out to be highly unstable in the presence of atmospheric oxygen in contrast to ruthenium(II) and iridium(III) complexes. The studied Ru(II) and Ir(III) complexes exhibited promising cytotoxicity towards cancer cells in vitro with IC50 values significantly lower than that of the reference drug—cisplatin. Confocal microscopy analysis showed that Ru(II) and Ir(III) complexes effectively accumulate inside A549 cells with localization in cytoplasm and nuclei. A precise cytometric analysis provided clear evidence for the predominance of apoptosis in induced cell death. Furthermore, the complexes presumably induce the changes in the cell cycle leading to G2/M phase arrest in a dose-dependent manner. Gel electrophoresis experiments revealed that Ru(II) and Ir(III) inorganic compounds showed their unusual low genotoxicity towards plasmid DNA. Additionally, metal complexes were able to generate reactive oxygen species as a result of redox processes, proved by gel electrophoresis and cyclic voltamperometry. In vitro cytotoxicity assays were also carried out within multicellular tumor spheroids and efficient anticancer action on these 3D assemblies was demonstrated. It was proven that the hydrocarbon chain elongation of the phosphine ligand coordinated to the metal ions does not influence the cytotoxic effect of resulting complexes in contrast to metal ions type.
Gelatin Methacrylate Hydrogel for Tissue Engineering Applications—A Review on Material Modifications
Authors: Bupphathong Sasinan , Quiroz Carlos , Huang Wei , Chung Pei-Feng , Tao Hsuan-Ya , Lin Chih-Hsin
Published: January 2022

To recreate or substitute tissue in vivo is a complicated endeavor that requires biomaterials that can mimic the natural tissue environment. Gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) is created through covalent bonding of naturally derived polymer gelatin and methacrylic groups. Due to its biocompatibility, GelMA receives a lot of attention in the tissue engineering research field. Additionally, GelMA has versatile physical properties that allow a broad range of modifications to enhance the interaction between the material and the cells. In this review, we look at recent modifications of GelMA with naturally derived polymers, nanomaterials, and growth factors, focusing on recent developments for vascular tissue engineering and wound healing applications. Compared to polymers and nanoparticles, the modifications that embed growth factors show better mechanical properties and better cell migration, stimulating vascular development and a structure comparable to the natural-extracellular matrix.
Synergic Antitumor Effect of Photodynamic Therapy and Chemotherapy Mediated by Nano Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Aghajanzadeh Mozhgan , Zamani Mostafa , Rajabi Kouchi Fereshteh , Eixenberger Josh , Shirini Dorsa , Estrada David , Shirini Farhad
Published: January 2022

This review provides a summary of recent progress in the development of different nano-platforms for the efficient synergistic effect between photodynamic therapy and chemotherapy. In particular, this review focuses on various methods in which photosensitizers and chemotherapeutic agents are co-delivered to the targeted tumor site. In many cases, the photosensitizers act as drug carriers, but this review, also covers different types of appropriate nanocarriers that aid in the delivery of photosensitizers to the tumor site. These nanocarriers include transition metal, silica and graphene-based materials, liposomes, dendrimers, polymers, metal–organic frameworks, nano emulsions, and biologically derived nanocarriers. Many studies have demonstrated various benefits from using these nanocarriers including enhanced water solubility, stability, longer circulation times, and higher accumulation of therapeutic agents/photosensitizers at tumor sites. This review also describes novel approaches from different research groups that utilize various targeting strategies to increase treatment efficacy through simultaneous photodynamic therapy and chemotherapy.
Effects of Intranasal Administration of Oxytocin and Vasopressin on Social Cognition and Potential Routes and Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Yao Shuxia , Kendrick Keith Maurice
Published: January 2022

Acute and chronic administration of intranasal oxytocin and vasopressin have been extensively utilized in both animal models and human preclinical and clinical studies over the last few decades to modulate various aspects of social cognition and their underlying neural mechanisms, although effects are not always consistent. The use of an intranasal route of administration is largely driven by evidence that it permits neuropeptides to penetrate directly into the brain by circumventing the blood–brain barrier, which has been considered relatively impermeable to them. However, this interpretation has been the subject of considerable debate. In this review, we will focus on research in both animal models and humans, which investigates the different potential routes via which these intranasally administered neuropeptides may be producing their various effects on social cognition. We will also consider the contribution of different methods of intranasal application and additionally the importance of dose magnitude and frequency for influencing G protein-coupled receptor signaling and subsequent functional outcomes. Overall, we conclude that while some functional effects of intranasal oxytocin and vasopressin in the domain of social cognition may result from direct penetration into the brain following intranasal administration, others may be contributed by the neuropeptides either entering the peripheral circulation and crossing the blood–brain barrier and/or producing vagal stimulation via peripheral receptors. Furthermore, to complicate matters, functional effects via these routes may differ, and both dose magnitude and frequency can produce very different functional outcomes and therefore need to be optimized to produce desired effects.
Lactate-Loaded Nanoparticles Induce Glioma Cytotoxicity and Increase the Survival of Rats Bearing Malignant Glioma Brain Tumor
Authors: Chavarria Víctor , Ortiz-Islas Emma , Salazar Alelí , Pérez-de la Cruz Verónica , Espinosa-Bonilla Alejandra , Figueroa Rubén , Ortíz-Plata Alma , Sotelo Julio , Sánchez-García Francisco Javier , Pineda Benjamín
Published: January 2022

A glioblastoma is an aggressive form of a malignant glial-derived tumor with a poor prognosis despite multimodal therapy approaches. Lactate has a preponderant role in the tumor microenvironment, playing an immunoregulatory role as well as being a carbon source for tumor growth. Lactate homeostasis depends on the proper functioning of intracellular lactate regulation systems, such as transporters and enzymes involved in its synthesis and degradation, with evidence that an intracellular lactate overload generates metabolic stress on tumor cells and tumor cell death. We propose that the delivery of a lactate overload carried in nanoparticles, allowing the intracellular release of lactate, would compromise the survival of tumor cells. We synthesized and characterized silica and titania nanoparticles loaded with lactate to evaluate the cellular uptake, metabolic activity, pH modification, and cytotoxicity on C6 cells under normoxia and chemical hypoxia, and, finally, determined the survival of an orthotopic malignant glioma model after in situ administration. A dose-dependent reduction in metabolic activity of treated cells under normoxia was found, but not under hypoxia, independent of glucose concentration. Lactated-loaded silica nanoparticles were highly cytotoxic (58.1% of dead cells) and generated significant supernatant acidification. In vivo, lactate-loaded silica nanoparticles significantly increased the median survival time of malignant glioma-bearing rats (p = 0.005) when administered in situ. These findings indicate that lactate-loaded silica nanoparticles are cytotoxic on glioma cells in vitro and in vivo.
Characterizing the Physicochemical Properties of Two Weakly Basic Drugs and the Precipitates Obtained from Biorelevant Media
Authors: Zhang Miao , Wu Bin , Zhang Shudong , Wang Lin , Hu Qin , Liu Dongyang , Chen Xijing
Published: January 2022

Generally, some weakly basic insoluble drugs will undergo precipitate and redissolution after emptying from the stomach to the small intestinal, resulting in the limited ability to predict the absorption characteristics of compounds in advance. Absorption is determined by the solubility and permeability of compounds, which are related to physicochemical properties, while knowledge about the absorption of redissolved precipitate is poorly documented. Considering that biorelevant media have been widely used to simulate gastrointestinal fluids, sufficient precipitates can be obtained in biorelevant media in vitro. Herein, the purpose of this manuscript is to evaluate the physicochemical properties of precipitates obtained from biorelevant media and active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), and then to explore the potential absorption difference between API and precipitates. Precipitates can be formed by the interaction between compounds and intestinal fluid contents, leading to changes in the crystal structure, melting point, and melting process. However, the newly formed crystals have some advantageous properties compared with the API, such as the improved dissolved rate and the increased intrinsic dissolution rate. Additionally, the permeability of some precipitates obtained from biorelevant media was different from API. Meanwhile, the permeability of rivaroxaban and Drug-A was decreased by 1.92-fold and 3.53-fold, respectively, when the experiments were performed in a biorelevant medium instead of a traditional medium. Therefore, the absorption of precipitate may differ from that of API, and the permeability assay in traditional medium may be overestimated. Based on the research results, it is crucial to understand the physicochemical properties of precipitates and API, which can be used as the departure point to improve the prediction performance of absorption.
Cross-Polarized Optical Coherence Tomography System with Unpolarized Light
Authors: Hartl Georg R. , Parmar Asha , Sharma Gargi , Singh Kanwarpal
Published: January 2022

Cross-polarized optical coherence tomography offers improved contrast for samples which can alter the polarization of light when it interacts with the sample. This property has been utilized to screen pathological conditions in several organs. Existing cross-polarized optical coherence tomography systems require several polarization-controlling elements to minimize the optical fiber movement-related image artifacts. In this work, we demonstrate a cross-polarized optical coherence tomography system using unpolarized light and only two quarter-wave plates, which is free from fiber-induced image artifacts. The simplicity of the approach will find many applications in clinical settings.
FPGA-Based Dynamic Wavelength Interrogation System for Thousands of Identical FBG Sensors
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Fu Xuelei , Gao Hui , Gui Xin , Wang Honghai , Li Zhengying
Published: January 2022

Under realistic scenarios, more fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) are always expected to be multiplexed in one sensor array to share the expensive optical components and electrical devices. However, either the sensing number or the interrogation frequency is limited in previous works due to the huge amount of data generated from large-scale sensing arrays. This paper presents a field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based dynamic wavelength interrogation system for thousands of identical FBGs. With the advantages of parallel controlling and pipeline processing, FPGA can accelerate the data-processing rate of the wavelength interrogation, realizing a continuous-running and real-time sensing system. The signal-processing system precisely synchronizes the generation of interrogation pulses, the acquisition of reflected signals, and the processing of the wavelength-related data, making the interrogation frequency fundamentally limited by the round-trip time of light pulses traveling in the fiber. Multiple sensing arrays can be independently carried out simultaneously, affecting hardly the interrogation frequency. Experimental results show that over 4000 FBGs with a 3-m spatial resolution in four channels are interrogated with a 150-Hz sensing frequency, 3-nm dynamic range, and ±5.9-pm sensing precision, greatly improving the interrogation frequency while ensuring the multiplexing number.
A Convolution Neural Network Implemented by Three 3 × 3 Photonic Integrated Reconfigurable Linear Processors
Authors: Xu Xiaofeng , Zhu Lianqing , Zhuang Wei , Lu Lidan , Yuan Pei
Published: January 2022

The convolution neural network (CNN) is a classical neural network with advantages in image processing. The use of multiport optical interferometric linear structures in neural networks has recently attracted a great deal of attention. Here, we use three 3 × 3 reconfigurable optical processors, based on Mach-Zehnder interferometers (MZIs), to implement a two-layer CNN. To circumvent the random phase errors originating from the fabrication process, MZIs are calibrated before the classification experiment. The MNIST datasets and Fashion-MNIST datasets are used to verify the classification accuracy. The optical processor achieves 86.9% accuracy on the MNIST datasets and 79.3% accuracy on the Fashion-MNIST datasets. Experiments show that we can improve the classification accuracy by reducing phase errors of MZIs and photodetector (PD) noises. In the future, our work provides a way to embed the optical processor in CNN to compute matrix multiplication.
The Anti-Inflammatory Response of Lavandula luisieri and Lavandula pedunculata Essential Oils
Authors: Zuzarte Monica , Sousa Cátia , Cavaleiro Carlos , Cruz Maria Teresa , Salgueiro Lígia
Published: January 2022

Portuguese lavenders remain undervalued in global markets due to the lack of high-quality end-products and scarcity of scientific-based studies validating their bioactive potential. Moreover, chemical variability is frequent in these species, and can compromise both safety and efficacy. In the present study, the anti-inflammatory potential of L. luisieri and L. pedunculata, two highly prevalent species in Portugal, was assessed and correlated with their chemical variability. Representative samples with distinct chemical profiles were selected to assess the anti-inflammatory effect on LPS-stimulated macrophages. L. luisieri essential oil with low quantities of necrodane derivatives was the most potent at inhibiting NO production. Interestingly, the essential oil was more effective than its main compounds (1,8-cineole and fenchone), assessed alone or in combination. Our results also demonstrated a significant effect of the oil on the expression of the inflammatory proteins (iNOS and pro-IL-1β) and on the NF-κB pathway. Overall, this study highlights the impact of chemical variability on oils’ efficacy by showing distinct effects among the chemotypes. We also identify L. luisieri essential oil, with low quantities of necrodane derivatives, as the most promising in the mitigation of the inflammatory response, thus corroborating its traditional uses and paving the way for the development of herbal medicinal products.
Competitive Interactions between Two Non-Native Species (Alliaria petiolata [M. Bieb.] Cavara & Grande and Hesperis matronalis L.) and a Native Species (Ageratina altissima [L.] R.M. King & H. Rob.)
Authors: Paulus Kassandra R. , Marshall Jordan M.
Published: January 2022

Alliaria petiolata and Hesperis matronalis are wide-ranging non-native species in North America. Ageratina altissima is native to North America but has become a concern as an invasive species in Asia. A replacement series experiment was established to quantify the competitive interactions between these three species and to rank their relative competitiveness with each other. We assessed leaf count, chlorophyll content, and aboveground biomass with comparisons between replacement series mixtures and competition species. Overall leaf count and aboveground biomass were greatest in A. altissima and chlorophyll content was lowest in A. petiolata. Chlorophyll content and aboveground biomass were lower for A. altissima in competition with A. petiolata compared to H. matronalis. Leaf count for A. petiolata was lower in competition with A. altissima compared to H. matronalis. Aboveground biomass for H. matronalis was lower in competition regardless of the species compared to monoculture. There were also negative trends in biomass for A. petiolata in competition with increasing neighbors. However, for A. altissima, the negative trend in biomass was with A. petiolata, H. matronalis did not negatively affect A. altissima biomass. Our rank order of competitiveness was A. altissima > A. petiolata >> H. matronalis.
Nutritional Composition, Bioactive Compounds, and Volatiles Profile Characterization of Two Edible Undervalued Plants: Portulaca oleracea L. and Porophyllum ruderale (Jacq.) Cass
Authors: Fukalova Fukalova Tamara , García-Martínez María Dolores , Raigón María Dolores
Published: January 2022

Wild edible plants are an important source of healthy food and have played an important role in traditional Mediterranean diets. In this paper, quality characteristics were typified in Portulaca oleracea L. and Porophyllum ruderale (Jacq.) Cass, undervalued plants inherent to the spring-summer season in the Valencian coastal region. Nutritional composition and bioactive compounds were analyzed and compared between plants in wild and organic cultivation conditions. Proximate analysis was carried out according to Association of Official Analytical Chemists methods. Total antioxidants were measured as 2.2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl hydrate and total polyphenols content via the Folin–Ciocalteu procedure. The HS-SPME technique was used to characterize the volatiles profile, and the polyphenol profile was evaluated by HPLC. The most important microelement was iron. Total antioxidants ranged from 4392.16 to 7315.00 μmol Trolox·equivalents 100 g−1 fw, and total phenolic content ranged from 99.09 to 391.18 mg gallic acid equivalents·100 g−1 fw. Results show that the content of antioxidants and phenols was higher in wild species than in cultivated ones. The volatiles profile revealed that P. ruderale was rich in monoterpenoids (48.65–55.82%), and fatty alcohols were characteristic in P. oleracea species (16.21–54.18%). The results suggest that both plants could be healthy foods and could have new sustainable agro-ecological potential for the local commercial sector.
Classical Morphometrics in V. arvensis and V. kitaibeliana (Viola sect. Melanium) Reveals Intraspecific Variation with Implications for Species Delimitation: Inferences from a Case Study in Central Italy
Authors: Scoppola Anna , Angeloni Daniele , Franceschini Cinzia
Published: January 2022

The high morphological variability of Viola arvensis may hinder the proper identification of the closely related species with an implication for biodiversity surveys. Variation in floral and vegetative morphology was explored in V. arvensis, compared to V. kitaibeliana, based upon 14 wild Italian populations, to provide new insights into their diagnostic features. Species were characterized using 32 morphological descriptors assessed on 272 flowers and as many leaves and scored as quantitative and categorical variables. Statistical methods, including Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), were applied to test species delimitation. Data highlighted variations in sepal size, petal size, leaves shape, stylar dark spot, and pollen magazine higher within V. arvensis than between V. arvensis and V. kitaibeliana. LDA partitioned the V. arvensis samples into two distinct clusters; no clear distinction was found between the cluster combining individuals from grasslands and V. kitaibeliana. The separation of V. arvensis and V. kitaibeliana from V. tricolor, included as a reference, was noticeable. Correlations were found in all species between the flower/leaf position on the stem and some floral and vegetative features. The shape and margin of the lower sepal, the stylar flap, and the lamina margin and apex were diagnostic in field identification. The results support the recognition of an undescribed V. arvensis eco-phenotype linked to seminatural dry grasslands, easily distinguishable from the field-grown type of V. arvensis but hardly distinguishable from the dwarf pansy. Data further corroborate the assumption of general deep-rooted confusion in ascribing poorly developed individuals of V. arvensis to the rare and locally threatened V. kitaibeliana, leading to potential implications for its conservation.
Assessment of Biochemical Composition and Antioxidant Properties of Algerian Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Seed Oil
Authors: Harkat Hamza , Bousba Ratiba , Benincasa Cinzia , Atrouz Kamel , Gültekin-Özgüven Mine , Altuntaş Ümit , Demircan Evren , Zahran Hamdy A. , Özçelik Beraat
Published: January 2022

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) trees are largely cultivated across the Algerian oases; they are principal sources of remuneration and the economic basis for residents of these areas. Date palm fruits are rich sources of essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibers, with many potential health benefits, yet there are few studies on the chemical composition and biological properties of date palm seed oil. In this study, we present an in-depth characterization of the biochemical composition and antioxidant properties of date palm seed oil (DPSO) produced in Algeria. DPSOs of eight Algerian cultivars, Arechti, Degla-Baida, Deglet-Nour, Ghars, Haloua, Itima, Mech-Degla, and Tentbouchet, were investigated to determine their biochemical compositions and antioxidant properties. The results highlight the potential of DPSO as an alternative food and a natural resource, thanks to several important compounds having high antioxidant capacity. In particular, fatty acids and triacylglycerol (TAGs) analyses showed that oleic (42.74–50.19%), lauric (18.40–22.2%), and myristic (8.83–10.17%) were the major fatty acids, while 1-myristoyl 2-oleoyl 3-linoleoyl glycerol, 1-linolenoyl 2-oleoyl 3-linoleoyl glycerol, 1-2-linolenoyl 3-linoleoyl glycerol, and 1-linolenoyl 2-myristoyl 3-linoleoyl glycerol were the major TAGs. Biophenols and tocopherols analyses revealed the presence of important compounds, such as catechin (22.04–24.92 mg/kg), vanillin (10.67–23.98 mg/kg), and α-tocopherol (443.59 mg/kg), at high remarkable levels. Therefore, a comparison with the literature data concerning other seed oils, including olive oil, confirms that DPSO can be considered a high-quality oil, from a biochemical and biological point of view.
Research on the Application of Polymer Materials in Contemporary Ceramic Art Creation
Authors: Hu Xiaobing , Lai Yuanqian , Hu Yingshuang , Li Yingzhuo , Zhao Dan , Tong Fang
Published: January 2022

Ceramicized polymer composites are prepared by adding various additives into the polymer matrix, such as functional clay fillers, porcelain-forming additives, crosslinking agents, flame retardants, reinforcement agents, etc. In recent years, polymer materials have been widely used in the preparation of ceramic materials. Moreover, the addition of polymer materials in ceramic materials results in increased bending in the ceramic body, and its mechanical strength has been greatly improved; this advantage has led many contemporary ceramists to use polymer materials in the creation of ceramic works, providing ceramic creation more space for operation. The introduction of polymer materials into ceramic materials brings more possibilities than traditional ceramic creation based on the tests of toughness, strength, and yield of the ceramic body. This article investigates ceramic raw materials with high-polymer material ceramic function, high-polymer materials for modern pottery to convey the artistic expression of porcelain texture, as well as the use of high-polymer materials in gel-powered three-dimensional (3D) printing to refine the injection molding process, all of which solve the difficulties of creating delicate artworks in modern ceramic art creation. This paper mainly adopts the research method of recording and comparing the numerical value of adding ceramic materials into polymer materials and the physical shape after firing in ceramic creation, to form a relatively stable numerical value and firing curve for a certain type of ceramic creation form. In this regard, the integration of modern ceramic creation and polymer materials makes ceramic works a relatively special style in contemporary art, increasing its cultural connotation and visual tension.
Green Extraction of Carrageenans from Mastocarpus stellatus
Authors: Flórez-Fernández Noelia , Falqué Elena , Domínguez Herminia , Torres María Dolores
Published: January 2022

The recovery of biopolymers from natural resources using eco-friendly extraction technologies that enhance their mechanical properties has gained attention in recent years. In this context, this work deals with the isolation of hybrid carrageenans from Mastocarpus stellatus red seaweed using subcritical water extraction operating in a wide range of thermal conditions (70–190 °C). The extracted biopolymers were analyzed by means of either Fourier-Transform infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, rheological or cell viability assays. In parallel, the fundamental chemical composition of the seaweed used as raw material, as well as the main phytochemical properties of the soluble liquid extracts, were also studied. Results indicated that thermal extraction conditions significantly affected the rheological behavior of the recovered hybrid carrageenans. The hybrid carrageenan extraction yields varied, with results between 10.2 and 30.2% being the highest values obtained at hydrothermal treatment of 130 °C. A wide palette of viscous features was identified for recovered hybrid carrageenans, with the strongest rheology properties observed at the same temperature. It should be remarked that the maximum inhibitory effect was also obtained at 130 °C for both the ovarian carcinoma cell line (A2780) (65%, IC50: 0.31 mg/mL) and lung carcinoma cell line (A549) (59%, IC50: 0.41 mg/mL).
Structural and Physicochemical Properties of Tunisian Quercus suber L. Starches for Custard Formulation: A Comparative Study
Authors: Zarroug Youkabed , Boulares Mouna , Sfayhi Dorra , Slimi Bechir , Stiti Bouthaina , Zaieni Kamel , Nefissi Sirine , Kharrat Mohamed
Published: January 2022

The aim of the present study was to extract starch from acorn (Quercus suber L.) fruits using water and alkaline methods. Structural and functional properties of extracted starches were investigated and compared to those of corn and modified starches in order to determine their innovative potential application in food industry. The yield of extraction using the two methods was about 48.32% and 48.1%. The isolated starches showed low moisture, fat and protein contents, revealing high purity and quality. Additionally, the starch extracted using the alkaline method (AAS) showed higher lightness (60.41) when compared to starch isolated using hot water (WAS). However, the lightest white color was found for studied commercial starches. Moreover, AAS starch exhibited the highest swelling power, solubility and water absorption, followed by WAS and commercial starches. Results showed that extracted acorn starches were characterized by greater enthalpy and gelatinization temperatures. Similar observations were noted using FT-IR spectra analysis for all analyzed starches. In addition, granule starches observed using scanning electron microscopy were found to be spherical and ovoid. However, from the analysis by X-ray diffraction, a crystalline pattern of C-type was found for acorn starches, while commercial starches presented an A-type pattern. As an innovative food application, these underexploited acorn starches were valued and served to produce new custards with improved functional properties and better microstructure when compared to commercial custard.
Optimization of Salt-Leaching Parameters for Gelatin/Na2Ti3O7 Scaffolds Using a Mixture Design Experiment
Authors: Sangkatip Rittichai , Sriseubsai Wipoo , Kiatkittipong Kunlanan , Jongwuttanaruk Kaona
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this research was to learn the formation of biomedical scaffold material from gelatin by using titanate (Na2Ti3O7), which is a newly synthesized derivative of titanium dioxide (TiO2) with gelatin. It was prepared by mixed several solutions and cross-linked molecules by heating and salt-leaching. The biomedical scaffold was formed, and its porosity depended on the size of the salt crystal. The mixture was designed by using a mixture design with three factors: gelatin, titanate, and deionized water to determine the optimal mixture for the tensile strength of the biomedical scaffold. The microstructure of the biomedical scaffold was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The findings revealed that Na2Ti3O7 thoroughly pen-extracted the biomedical scaffold, and the tensile strength of the gelatin/titanate scaffold was higher than the biomedical scaffold, which was formed using pure gelatin. By using the mixture design technique, the 14.73% gelatin, 0.2% Na2Ti3O7, and 85.07% DI water got the highest yield of tensile strength (1508.15 kP). This was an about 4.88% increase in the tensile strength property when compared with using TiO2.
Influence of Chitin Nanocrystals on the Crystallinity and Mechanical Properties of Poly(hydroxybutyrate) Biopolymer
Authors: Zaccone Marta , Patel Mitul Kumar , De Brauwer Laurens , Nair Rakesh , Montalbano Maria Luana , Monti Marco , Oksman Kristiina
Published: January 2022

This study focuses on the use of pilot-scale produced polyhydroxy butyrate (PHB) biopolymer and chitin nanocrystals (ChNCs) in two different concentrated (1 and 5 wt.%) nanocomposites. The nanocomposites were compounded using a twin-screw extruder and calendered into sheets. The crystallization was studied using polarized optical microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry, the thermal properties were studied using thermogravimetric analysis, the viscosity was studied using a shear rheometer, the mechanical properties were studied using conventional tensile testing, and the morphology of the prepared material was studied using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that the addition of ChNCs significantly affected the crystallization of PHB, resulting in slower crystallization, lower overall crystallinity, and smaller crystal size. Furthermore, the addition of ChNCs resulted in increased viscosity in the final formulations. The calendering process resulted in slightly aligned sheets and the nanocomposites with 5 wt.% ChNCs evaluated along the machine direction showed the highest mechanical properties, the strength increased from 24 to 33 MPa, while the transversal direction with lower initial strength at 14 MPa was improved to 21 MPa.
Integral Resonant Controller to Suppress the Nonlinear Oscillations of a Two-Degree-of-Freedom Rotor Active Magnetic Bearing System
Authors: Saeed Nasser A. , Mohamed Mohamed S. , Elagan Sayed K. , Awrejcewicz Jan
Published: January 2022

Within this article, the nonlinear vibration control of the rotor active magnetic bearings system is tackled utilizing the integral resonant controller for the first time. Two integral resonant controllers are proposed to mitigate the system lateral oscillations in the horizontal and vertical directions. Based on the suggested control technique, the whole system dynamical model is derived as a two-degree-of-freedom nonlinear system (i.e., rotor system) coupled linearly to two first-order filters (i.e., the integral resonant controllers). The nonlinear autonomous system that governs the oscillation amplitudes of the controlled system as a function of the control parameters is extracted by applying perturbation analysis. The obtained autonomous system showed that the linear damping coefficients of the rotor system are functions of the control gains, feedback gains, and internal loop feedback gains of the coupled controller. Accordingly, the sensitivity of the rotor oscillation amplitudes to the different control parameters is explored. The stability margins and the optimal control gains are reported via plotting the different stability charts in two-dimensional space. The main acquired results demonstrated that the vibration suppression efficiency of the proposed controller is proportional to the product of both the control and feedback signal gains, and inversely proportional to the square of the internal loop feedback gains. In addition, the analytical investigations confirmed that the proposed integral resonant control method can force the rotor system to respond as a linear one with a single periodic attractor when the control parameters are designed properly. Finally, numerical simulations are performed that have illustrated the excellent correspondence with the obtained analytical results.
From Scripturalism to the ‘Chain of Tradition’: Between Rabbanite and Karaite Judaism
Authors: Akhiezer Golda
Published: January 2022

This article focuses on the controversy and theological polemics advanced by the Jewish-Karaite movement against one of the central concepts of mainstream Rabbinic Judaism—the Oral Torah and the legitimacy of its transmission (“Chain of Tradition”). This process passed through a series of formative stages of Karaism: from radical scripturalism fundamentally rejecting any transmitted tradition to the gradual development of alternative “authentic” Chain of Tradition, adjusting its principles to vital social and intellectual needs. This case of intra-confessional Judaic debate is presented here in the wider context of comparative religious phenomena. In fact, this paradigm present in different forms in the other Abrahamic religions can be viewed as a search for balance between the oral and written traditions. In spite of numerous differences between religions, this paradigm explains to some extent the similarity in arguments of the intra-confessional polemics in Abrahamic religions, as well as the similarity in the argumentation of Muslim, Christian, and Karaite polemicists against the Talmud.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Religions in 2021
Authors:   Religions Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Responses to the 2014 Police Shooting of Michael Brown: Cosmology Episodes and Enacted Environments
Authors: Haas Jessica , O’Grady Kari A. , Fox Jesse , Schuermann Hope , Toscano Marion E. , Taylor Chun-Shin
Published: January 2022

This is a consensual multi-dyadic exploration of the diverse perspectives of seven community subgroups’ perceptions of events before, during, and after the 2014 police-involved shooting death of Michael Brown, Jr. in Ferguson, Missouri. Recognizing an enacted environment in the complex history that preceded the uprising, findings were contextualized and framed through the cosmology episode trauma model. A multicultural and visibly diverse research team conducted 34 interviews with involved citizens (protesters), law enforcement, clergy, politicians, business owners, media personnel, and educators. A culturally diverse cross-analysis team triangulated social perspective through consensus coding and audit. Consensual multi-dyadic method preserved the unique characteristics of each subgroup’s phenomenology, to ensure culturally sensitive and decolonized research methods, enabling an in depth look at the factors necessary for conciliation. Insight into motivational factors, narrative meaning-making, and implications for intervention and treatment are discussed.