bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A High-Gain and High-Efficiency Photovoltaic Grid-Connected Inverter with Magnetic Coupling
Authors: Chang Chien-Hsuan , Cheng Chun-An , Cheng Hung-Liang , Chang En-Chih
Published: September 2022

Conventional photovoltaic (PV) grid-connected systems consist of a boost converter cascaded with an inverter, resulting in poor efficiency due to performing energy processing twice. Many pseudo DC-link inverters with single energy processing have been proposed to improve system efficiency and simplify circuits. However, their output voltage gain is limited by the non-ideal characteristics of the power diode, making them difficult to apply in high-output voltage applications. This paper proposes combining a boost converter with magnetic coupling and a full-bridge unfolding circuit to develop an inverter featuring high voltage-gain and high efficiency. According to the desired instantaneous output voltage, the high-gain boost converter and the full-bridge unfolding circuit are sequentially and respectively controlled by SPWM. A sinusoidal output voltage can be generated by performing energy processing only once, effectively improving the conversion efficiency. Magnetic coupling is adopted to increase the voltage gain of step-up, and the step-down function is realized by the full-bridge unfolding circuit to reduce conduction loss. Finally, a 500 W prototype was fabricated for the proposed high-gain inverter. The experimental results were used to verify the correctness of the theoretical analysis and the feasibility of the circuit structure.
Impact of Particle Shape, Size, and Size Distribution on Gravity Flow Behaviour of Broken Ore in Sublevel Caving
Authors: Wang Liancheng , Jing Hongdi , Yu Jianyang , Liu Xiaobo
Published: September 2022

An in-depth understanding of the gravity flow behaviour of broken ore is beneficial to improving the ore recovery in sublevel caving mines. In this study, granular dolomites were used as an analogue to experimentally explore the effect of the physical properties of fragments on the gravity flow behaviour of broken ore. Five groups of granular dolomites were prepared first. Then, the particle size, particle size distribution, and particle morphology (e.g., sphericity, circularity, and fractal dimension) in each group were measured following the standard particle morphology test. After that, the angle of repose and the isolated extraction zone (IEZ) of each group were determined by performing funnel and isolated draw experiments, respectively. The experimental results highlighted the insubstantial effect of particle size and the significant effect of particle morphology on the angle of repose and isolated extraction zone of granular dolomite. It was found that a wider particle size distribution yielded an isolated extraction zone with a nonuniform shape and a smaller mass drawn because of the percolation of finer particles and the jamming of larger particles. Further, a linear negative correlation was revealed between the repose angle and the IEZ mass. Establishing the relationship between the repose angle and the IEZ shape would be of great significance. In this regard, the findings of this study can aid a preliminary analysis.
Comparative Metabolomic Analysis of Moromi Fermented Using Different Aspergillus oryzae Strains
Authors: Jo Seung Wha , An Ji-Hyun , Kim Dong-Shin , Yim Eun Jung , Kang Hyeon-Jin , Kim Hyun-Jin
Published: September 2022

Aspergillus oryzae (A. oryzae) is an important starter in the fermentation of koji and moromi. However, the effect of different A. oryzae strains on the quality of moromi has rarely been studied. For this reason, this study analyzed the physicochemical properties, enzyme activity, sensory quality, and metabolite profiles of moromi samples fermented using two strains (A. oryzae KCCM12012P (moromi-1) and KCCM12804P (moromi-2)), which were newly isolated from fermented soy foods, and compared them to those of a commercialized A. oryzae strain (control). Amino-type nitrogen contents of moromi-1 and moromi-2 samples were higher than that of control moromi, and their amylase and protease activities were also higher. Moreover, metabolite profiles of moromi were significantly altered according to strains. In particular, the levels of many amino acids, peptides, nucleotides, and acidic compounds were altered, which resulted in changes in the sensory quality of moromi. Although volatile compounds were not investigated, the results suggested that the quality of moromi was significantly different for newly isolated strains, especially A. oryzae KCCM12804P, and they were superior to the commercial strain in terms of taste-related substances. Therefore, these strains could be used as good starters to produce moromi and soy sauce with good sensory quality.
The Antioxidative Effects of Picein and Its Neuroprotective Potential: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Elyasi Leila , Rosenholm Jessica M. , Jesmi Fatemeh , Jahanshahi Mehrdad
Published: September 2022

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are the main cause of dementia in the elderly, having no cure to date, as the currently available therapies focus on symptom remission. Most NDDs will progress despite treatment and eventually result in the death of the patient after several years of a burden on both the patient and the caregivers. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate agents that tackle the disease pathogenesis and can efficiently slow down or halt disease progression, with the hope of curing the patients and preventing further burden and mortality. Accordingly, recent research has focused on disease-modifying treatments with neuroregenerative or neuroprotective effects. For this purpose, it is necessary to understand the pathogenesis of NDDs. It has been shown that oxidative stress plays an important role in the damage to the central nervous system and the progression of neurodegenerative disorders. Furthermore, mitochondrial dysfunction and the accumulation of unfolded proteins, including beta-amyloid (Aβ), tau proteins, and α-synuclein, have been suggested. Accordingly, cellular and molecular studies have investigated the efficacy of several natural compounds (herbs and nutritional agents) for their neuroprotective and antioxidative properties. The most popular herbs suggested for the treatment and/or prevention of NDDs include Withania somnifera (ashwagandha), ginseng, curcumin, resveratrol, Baccopa monnieri, and Ginkgo biloba. In some herbs, such as ginseng, preclinical and clinical evidence are available for supporting its effectiveness; however, in some others, only cellular and animal studies are available. In line with the scant literature in terms of the effectiveness of herbal compounds on NDDs, there are also other herbal agents that have been disregarded. Picein is one of the herbal agents that has been investigated in only a few studies. Picein is the active ingredient of several herbs and can be thus extracted from different types of herbs, which makes it more available. It has shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in cellular and plant studies; however, to date, only one study has suggested its neuroprotective properties. Furthermore, some cellular studies have shown no anti-inflammatory effect of picein. Therefore, a review of the available literature is required to summarize the results of studies on picein. To date, no review study seems to have addressed this issue. Thus, in the present study, we gather the available information about the antioxidative and potential neuroprotective properties of picein and its possible effectiveness in treating NDDs. We also summarize the plants from which picein can be extracted in order to guide researchers for future investigations.
Development of UPLC-MS/MS Method to Study the Pharmacokinetic Interaction between Sorafenib and Dapagliflozin in Rats
Authors: He Xueru , Li Ying , Ma Yinling , Fu Yuhao , Xun Xuejiao , Cui Yanjun , Dong Zhanjun
Published: September 2022

Sorafenib (SOR), an inhibitor of multiple kinases, is a classic targeted drug for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) which often coexists with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Dapagliflozin (DAPA), a sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i), is widely used in patients with T2DM. Notably, co-administration of SOR with DAPA is common in clinical settings. Uridine diphosphate-glucuronosyltransferase family 1 member A9 (UGT1A9) is involved in the metabolism of SOR and dapagliflozin (DAPA), and SOR is the inhibitor of UGT1A1 and UGT1A9 (in vitro). Therefore, changes in UGT1A9 activity caused by SOR may lead to pharmacokinetic interactions between the two drugs. The objective of the current study was to develop an ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method for the simultaneous determination of SOR and DAPA in plasma and to evaluate the effect of the co-administration of SOR and DAPA on their individual pharmacokinetic properties and the mechanism involved. The rats were divided into four groups: SOR (100 mg/kg) alone and co-administered with DAPA (1 mg/kg) for seven days, and DAPA (1 mg/kg) alone and co-administered with SOR (100 mg/kg) for seven days. Liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) was performed for plasma sample preparation, and the chromatographic separation was conducted on Waters XSelect HSS T3 column with a gradient elution of 0.1% formic acid and 5 mM ammonium acetate (Phase A) and acetonitrile (Phase B). The levels of Ugt1a7 messenger RNA (mRNA) were determined in rat liver and intestine using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The method was successfully applied to the study of pharmacokinetic interactions. DAPA caused a significant decrease in the maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) and the area under the plasma concentration–time curves (AUC0–t) of SOR by 41.6% and 50.5%, respectively, while the apparent volume of distribution (Vz/F) and apparent clearance (CLz/F) significantly increased 2.85- and 1.98-fold, respectively. When co-administering DAPA with SOR, the AUC0–t and the elimination half-life (t1/2Z) of DAPA significantly increased 1.66- and 1.80-fold, respectively, whereas the CLz/F significantly decreased by 40%. Results from qRT-PCR showed that, compared with control, seven days of SOR pretreatment decreased Ugt1a7 expression in both liver and intestine tissue. In contrast, seven days of DAPA pretreatment decreased Ugt1a7 expression only in liver tissue. Therefore, pharmacokinetic interactions exist between long-term use of SOR with DAPA, and UGT1A9 may be the targets mediating the interaction. Active surveillance for the treatment outcomes and adverse reactions are required.
Evaluation of the Nutritional and Health Values of Selected Polish Mushrooms Considering Fatty Acid Profiles and Lipid Indices
Authors: Gałgowska Michalina , Pietrzak-Fiećko Renata
Published: September 2022

Imleria badia, Boletus edulis, and Cantharellus cibarius are popular mushrooms of economic importance in Poland. Since physical and mental development of a person and the maintenance of good health entail providing the body with adequate nutrients, including plant and animal fats, the aim of this study was to determine the fatty acid profiles of three mushroom species from Poland and to assess their nutritional and health values using lipid indices. Studied mushrooms have a favorable fatty acid composition due to the high percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Low values of the atherohenic index (AI) and the thrombogenic index (TI) prove that the consumption of the fungi may decrease the risk of coronary heart disease. Products with a high hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio (H/H) and health-promoting index value are assumed to be more beneficial to human health, granting the possibility for using mushrooms in the nutrition of people with hypertension and in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Applications of MALDI-MS/MS-Based Proteomics in Biomedical Research
Authors: Darie-Ion Laura , Whitham Danielle , Jayathirtha Madhuri , Rai Yashveen , Neagu Anca-Narcisa , Darie Costel C. , Petre Brînduşa Alina
Published: September 2022

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) is one of the most widely used techniques in proteomics to achieve structural identification and characterization of proteins and peptides, including their variety of proteoforms due to post-translational modifications (PTMs) or protein–protein interactions (PPIs). MALDI-MS and MALDI tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) have been developed as analytical techniques to study small and large molecules, offering picomole to femtomole sensitivity and enabling the direct analysis of biological samples, such as biofluids, solid tissues, tissue/cell homogenates, and cell culture lysates, with a minimized procedure of sample preparation. In the last decades, structural identification of peptides and proteins achieved by MALDI-MS/MS helped researchers and clinicians to decipher molecular function, biological process, cellular component, and related pathways of the gene products as well as their involvement in pathogenesis of diseases. In this review, we highlight the applications of MALDI ionization source and tandem approaches for MS for analyzing biomedical relevant peptides and proteins. Furthermore, one of the most relevant applications of MALDI-MS/MS is to provide “molecular pictures”, which offer in situ information about molecular weight proteins without labeling of potential targets. Histology-directed MALDI-mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) uses MALDI-ToF/ToF or other MALDI tandem mass spectrometers for accurate sequence analysis of peptide biomarkers and biological active compounds directly in tissues, to assure complementary and essential spatial data compared with those obtained by LC-ESI-MS/MS technique.
Magnetic Torus Microreactor as a Novel Device for Sample Treatment via Solid-Phase Microextraction Coupled to Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: A Route for Arsenic Pre-Concentration
Authors: Ortegón Sofía , Peñaranda Paula Andrea , Rodríguez Cristian F. , Noguera Mabel Juliana , Florez Sergio Leonardo , Cruz Juan C. , Rivas Ricardo E. , Osma Johann F.
Published: September 2022

This work studied the feasibility of using a novel microreactor based on torus geometry to carry out a sample pretreatment before its analysis by graphite furnace atomic absorption. The miniaturized retention of total arsenic was performed on the surface of a magnetic sorbent material consisting of 6 mg of magnetite (Fe3O4) confined in a very small space inside (20.1 µL) a polyacrylate device filling an internal lumen (inside space). Using this geometric design, a simulation theoretical study demonstrated a notable improvement in the analyte adsorption process on the solid extractant surface. Compared to single-layer geometries, the torus microreactor geometry brought on flow turbulence within the liquid along the curvatures inside the device channels, improving the efficiency of analyte–extractant contact and therefore leading to a high preconcentration factor. According to this design, the magnetic solid phase was held internally as a surface bed with the use of an 8 mm-diameter cylindric neodymium magnet, allowing the pass of a fixed volume of an arsenic aqueous standard solution. A preconcentration factor of up to 60 was found to reduce the typical “characteristic mass” (as sensitivity parameter) determined by direct measurement from 53.66 pg to 0.88 pg, showing an essential improvement in the arsenic signal sensitivity by absorption atomic spectrometry. This methodology emulates a miniaturized micro-solid-phase extraction system for flow-through water pretreatment samples in chemical analysis before coupling to techniques that employ reduced sample volumes, such as graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy.
Synthesis, Molecular Docking, and Preclinical Evaluation of a New Succinimide Derivative for Cardioprotective, Hepatoprotective and Lipid-Lowering Effects
Authors: Qayyum Muhammad Imran , Ullah Sami , Rashid Umer , Sadiq Abdul , Obaidullah  , Mahnashi Mater H. , Alshehri Osama M. , Jalal Mohammed M. , Alzahrani Khalid J. , Halawani Ibrahim F.
Published: September 2022

Cardiac and hepatotoxicities are major concerns in the development of new drugs. Better alternatives to other treatments are being sought to protect these vital organs from the toxicities of these pharmaceuticals. In this regard, a preclinical study is designed to investigate the histopathological effects of a new succinimide derivative (Comp-1) on myocardial and liver tissues, and the biochemical effects on selected cardiac biomarkers, hepatic enzymes, and lipid profiles. For this, an initially lethal/toxic dose was determined, followed by a grouping of selected albino rats into five groups (each group had n = 6). The control group received daily oral saline for 8 days. The 5-FU (5-Fluorouracil) group received oral saline daily for 8 days, added with the administration of a single dose of 5-FU (150 mg/kg I.P.) on day 5 of the study. The atenolol group received oral atenolol (20 mg/kg) for 8 days and 5-FU (150 mg/kg I.P.) on day 5 of the protocol. Similarly, two groups of rats treated with test compound (Comp-1) were administered with 5 mg/kg I.P. and 10 mg/kg I.P. for 8 days, followed by 5-FU (150 mg/kg I.P.) on day 5. Toxicity induced by 5-FU was manifested by increases in the serum creatinine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB), troponin I (cTnI) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), lipid profile, and selected liver enzymes, including ALP (alkaline phosphatase), ALT (alanine transaminase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), BT (bilirubin total), and BD (direct bilirubin). These biomarkers were highly significantly decreased after the administration of the mentioned doses of the test compound (5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg). Similarly, histological examination revealed cardiac and hepatic tissue toxicity by 5-FU. However, those toxic effects were also significantly recovered/improved after the administration of Comp-1 at the said doses. This derivative showed dose-dependent effects and was most effective at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight. Binding energy data computed via docking simulations revealed that our compound interacts toward the human beta2-adrenergic G protein-coupled receptor (S = −7.89 kcal/mol) with a slight stronger affinity than the calcium channel T-type (S = −7.07 kcal/mol). In conclusion, the histological and biochemical results showed that the test compound (Comp-1) had prominent cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, and lipolytic effects against 5-FU-induced toxicity in the subjected animal model.
Discovery of New VEGFR-2 Inhibitors: Design, Synthesis, Anti-Proliferative Evaluation, Docking, and MD Simulation Studies
Authors: Elkaeed Eslam B. , Yousef Reda G. , Khalifa Mohamed M. , Ibrahim Albaraa , Mehany Ahmed B. M. , Gobaara Ibraheem M. M. , Alsfouk Bshra A. , Eldehna Wagdy M. , Metwaly Ahmed M. , Eissa Ibrahim H. , El-Zahabi Mohamed Ayman
Published: September 2022

Four new nicotinamide-based derivatives were designed as antiangiogenic VEGFR-2 inhibitors. The congeners were synthesized possessing the pharmacophoric essential features to bind correctly with the VEGFR-2 active pocket. All members were evaluated for their cytotoxic and VEGFR-2 inhibitory potentialities. Compound 6 was the most potent showingIC50 values of 9.3 ± 0.02 and 7.8 ± 0.025 µM against HCT-116 and HepG-2 cells, respectively, and IC50 of 60.83 nM regarding VEGFR-2 enzyme inhibition. Compound 6 arrested the growth of HCT-116 cells at the pre-G1 and G2-M phases. Further, it induced both early and late apoptosis. Additionally, compound 6 caused a significant decrease in TNF-α and IL6 by 66.42% and 57.34%, respectively. The considered compounds had similar docking performances to that of sorafenib against the VEGFR-2 (PDB ID: 2OH4). The correct binding of compound 6 with VEGFR-2 was validated using MD simulations, and MM-GPSA calculations.
Electrospun Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate-Co-3-Hydroxyvalerate)/Olive Leaf Extract Fiber Mesh as Prospective Bio-Based Scaffold for Wound Healing
Authors: De la Ossa Jose Gustavo , Danti Serena , Esposito Salsano Jasmine , Azimi Bahareh , Tempesti Veronika , Barbani Niccoletta , Digiacomo Maria , Macchia Marco , Uddin Mohammed Jasim , Cristallini Caterina , Di Stefano Rossella , Lazzeri Andrea
Published: September 2022

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are a family of biopolyesters synthesized by various microorganisms. Due to their biocompatibility and biodegradation, PHAs have been proposed for biomedical applications, including tissue engineering scaffolds. Olive leaf extract (OLE) can be obtained from agri-food biowaste and is a source of polyphenols with remarkable antioxidant properties. This study aimed at incorporating OLE inside poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBHV) fibers via electrospinning to obtain bioactive bio-based blends that are useful in wound healing. PHBHV/OLE electrospun fibers with a size of 1.29 ± 0.34 µm were obtained. Fourier transform infrared chemical analysis showed a uniform surface distribution of hydrophilic -OH groups, confirming the presence of OLE in the electrospun fibers. The main OLE phenols were released from the fibers within 6 days. The biodegradation of the scaffolds in phosphate buffered saline was investigated, demonstrating an adequate stability in the presence of metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), an enzyme produced in chronic wounds. The scaffolds were preliminarily tested in vitro with HFFF2 fibroblasts and HaCaT keratinocytes, suggesting adequate cytocompatibility. PHBHV/OLE fiber meshes hold promising features for wound healing, including the treatment of ulcers, due to the long period of durability in an inflamed tissue environment and adequate cytocompatibility.
Synthesis and Structure–Activity Relationship Studies of Pyrido [1,2-e]Purine-2,4(1H,3H)-Dione Derivatives Targeting Flavin-Dependent Thymidylate Synthase in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Biteau Nicolas G. , Roy Vincent , Nicolas Cyril , Becker Hubert F. , Lambry Jean-Christophe , Myllykallio Hannu , Agrofoglio Luigi A.
Published: September 2022

In 2002, a new class of thymidylate synthase (TS) involved in the de novo synthesis of dTMP named Flavin-Dependent Thymidylate Synthase (FDTS) encoded by the thyX gene was discovered; FDTS is present only in 30% of prokaryote pathogens and not in human pathogens, which makes it an attractive target for the development of new antibacterial agents, especially against multi-resistant pathogens. We report herein the synthesis and structure-activity relationship of a novel series of hitherto unknown pyrido[1,2-e]purine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione analogues. Several synthetics efforts were done to optimize regioselective N1-alkylation through organopalladium cross-coupling. Modelling of potential hits were performed to generate a model of interaction into the active pocket of FDTS to understand and guide further synthetic modification. All those compounds were evaluated on an in-house in vitro NADPH oxidase assays screening as well as against Mycobacterium tuberculosis ThyX. The highest inhibition was obtained for compound 23a with 84.3% at 200 µM without significant cytotoxicity (CC50 > 100 μM) on PBM cells.
Synthesis of Novel Lipophilic Polyamines via Ugi Reaction and Evaluation of Their Anticancer Activity
Authors: Nichugovskiy Artemiy , Maksimova Varvara , Trapeznikova Ekaterina , Eshtukova-Shcheglova Elizaveta , Ivanov Igor , Yakubovskaya Marianna , Kirsanov Kirill , Cheshkov Dmitry , Tron Gian Cesare , Maslov Mikhail
Published: September 2022

Natural polyamines (PAs) are involved in the processes of proliferation and differentiation of cancer cells. Lipophilic synthetic polyamines (LPAs) induce the cell death of various cancer cell lines. In the current paper, we have demonstrated a new method for synthesis of LPAs via the multicomponent Ugi reaction and subsequent reduction of amide groups by PhSiH3. The anticancer activity of the obtained compounds was evaluated in the A-549, MCF7, and HCT116 cancer cell lines. For the first time, it was shown that the anticancer activity of LPAs with piperazine fragments is comparable with that of aliphatic LPAs. The presence of a diglyceride fragment in the structure of LPAs appears to be a key factor for the manifestation of high anticancer activity. The findings of the study strongly support further research in the field of LPAs and their derivatives.
Integrated System Pharmacology Approaches to Elucidate Multi-Target Mechanism of Solanum surattense against Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Khalid Hafiz Rameez , Aamir Muhammad , Tabassum Sana , Alghamdi Youssef Saeed , Alzamami Ahmad , Ashfaq Usman Ali
Published: September 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant liver tumors with high mortality. Chronic hepatitis B and C viruses, aflatoxins, and alcohol are among the most common causes of hepatocellular carcinoma. The limited reported data and multiple spectra of pathophysiological mechanisms of HCC make it a challenging task and a serious economic burden in health care management. Solanum surattense (S. surattense) is the herbal plant used in many regions of Asia to treat many disorders including various types of cancer. Previous in vitro studies revealed the medicinal importance of S. surattense against hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the exact molecular mechanism of S. surattense against HCC still remains unclear. In vitro and in silico experiments were performed to find the molecular mechanism of S. surattense against HCC. In this study, the network pharmacology approach was used, through which multi-targeted mechanisms of S. surattense were explored against HCC. Active ingredients and potential targets of S. surattense found in HCC were figured out. Furthermore, the molecular docking technique was employed for the validation of the successful activity of bioactive constituents against potential genes of HCC. The present study investigated the active “constituent–target–pathway” networks and determined the tumor necrosis factor (TNF), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), Bcl-2-like protein 1(BCL2L1), estrogen receptor (ER), GTPase HRas, hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1-α), Harvey Rat sarcoma virus, also known as transforming protein p21 (HRAS), and AKT Serine/Threonine Kinase 1 (AKT1), and found that the genes were influenced by active ingredients of S. surattense. In vitro analysis was also performed to check the anti-cancerous activity of S. surattense on human liver cells. The result showed that S. surattense appeared to act on HCC via modulating different molecular functions, many biological processes, and potential targets implicated in 11 different pathways. Furthermore, molecular docking was employed to validate the successful activity of the active compounds against potential targets. The results showed that quercetin was successfully docked to inhibit the potential targets of HCC. This study indicates that active constituents of S. surattense and their therapeutic targets are responsible for their pharmacological activities and possible molecular mechanisms for treating HCC. Lastly, it is concluded that active compounds of S. surattense act on potential genes along with their influencing pathways to give a network analysis in system pharmacology, which has a vital role in the development and utilization of drugs. The current study lays a framework for further experimental research and widens the clinical usage of S. surattense.
Molecular Mechanistic Pathways Targeted by Natural Compounds in the Prevention and Treatment of Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zhou Kaixuan , Zi Xue , Song Jiayu , Zhao Qiulu , Liu Jia , Bao Huiwei , Li Lijing
Published: September 2022

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the most common complications of diabetes, and its prevalence is still growing rapidly. However, the efficient therapies for this kidney disease are still limited. The pathogenesis of DKD involves glucotoxicity, lipotoxicity, inflammation, oxidative stress, and renal fibrosis. Glucotoxicity and lipotoxicity can cause oxidative stress, which can lead to inflammation and aggravate renal fibrosis. In this review, we have focused on in vitro and in vivo experiments to investigate the mechanistic pathways by which natural compounds exert their effects against the progression of DKD. The accumulated and collected data revealed that some natural compounds could regulate inflammation, oxidative stress, renal fibrosis, and activate autophagy, thereby protecting the kidney. The main pathways targeted by these reviewed compounds include the Nrf2 signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, TGF-β signaling pathway, NLRP3 inflammasome, autophagy, glycolipid metabolism and ER stress. This review presented an updated overview of the potential benefits of these natural compounds for the prevention and treatment of DKD progression, aimed to provide new potential therapeutic lead compounds and references for the innovative drug development and clinical treatment of DKD.
Phyto-Computational Intervention of Diabetes Mellitus at Multiple Stages Using Isoeugenol from Ocimum tenuiflorum: A Combination of Pharmacokinetics and Molecular Modelling Approaches
Authors: Martiz Reshma Mary , Patil Shashank M. , Thirumalapura Hombegowda Deepika , Shbeer Abdullah M. , Alqadi Taha , Al-Ghorbani Mohammed , Ramu Ramith , Prasad Ashwini
Published: September 2022

In the present study, the anti-diabetic potential of Ocimum tenuiflorum was investigated using computational techniques for α-glucosidase, α-amylase, aldose reductase, and glycation at multiple stages. It aimed to elucidate the mechanism by which phytocompounds of O. tenuiflorum treat diabetes mellitus using concepts of druglikeness and pharmacokinetics, molecular docking simulations, molecular dynamics simulations, and binding free energy studies. Isoeugenol is a phenylpropene, propenyl-substituted guaiacol found in the essential oils of plants. During molecular docking modelling, isoeugenol was found to inhibit all the target enzymes, with a higher binding efficiency than standard drugs. Furthermore, molecular dynamic experiments revealed that isoeugenol was more stable in the binding pockets than the standard drugs used. Since our aim was to discover a single lead molecule with a higher binding efficiency and stability, isoeugenol was selected. In this context, our study stands in contrast to other computational studies that report on more than one compound, making it difficult to offer further analyses. To summarize, we recommend isoeugenol as a potential widely employed lead inhibitor of α-glucosidase, α-amylase, aldose reductase, and glycation based on the results of our in silico studies, therefore revealing a novel phytocompound for the effective treatment of hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus.
Revealing the Hidden Mechanism of Enhanced Responsivity of Doped p-i-n Perovskite Photodiodes via Coupled Opto-Electronic Model
Authors: Wu Dan , Zhang Hechun , Liu Haochen , Li Wenhui , Xiao Xiangtian , Shi Kanming , Ye Taikang , Sun Jiayun , Lin Zhaowen , Liu Jing , Qiu Mingxia , Ko Ko Kyaw Aung , Wang Kai
Published: September 2022

Organic-inorganic halide perovskites have demonstrated preeminent optoelectronic performance in recent years due to their unique material properties, and have shown great potential in the field of photodetectors. In this study, a coupled opto-electronic model is constructed to reveal the hidden mechanism of enhancing the performance of perovskite photodetectors that are suitable for both inverted and regular structure doped p-i-n perovskite photodiodes. Upon illumination, the generation rate of photogenerated carriers is calculated followed by carrier density distribution, which serves as a coupled joint to further analyze the recombination rate, electric field strength, and current density of carriers under different doping types and densities. Moreover, experiments were carried out in which the doping types and densities of the active layer were regulated by changing the precursor ratios. With optimal doping conditions, the inverted and regular perovskite photodiodes achieved an external quantum efficiency of 74.83% and 73.36%, and a responsivity of 0.417 and 0.404 A/W, respectively. The constructed coupled opto-electronic model reveals the hidden mechanism and along with the doping strategy, this study provides important guidance for further analysis and improvement of perovskite-based photodiodes.
Therapeutic and Nutraceutical Effects of Polyphenolics from Natural Sources
Authors: Sahiner Mehtap , Yilmaz A. Sanem , Gungor Buket , Ayoubi Yasmin , Sahiner Nurettin
Published: September 2022

The prevalence of cardiovascular disease, oxidative stress-related complications, and chronic age-related illnesses is gradually increasing worldwide. Several causes include the ineffectiveness of medicinal treatment therapies, their toxicity, their inability to provide radical solutions in some diseases, and the necessity of multiple drug therapy in certain chronic diseases. It is therefore necessary for alternative treatment methods to be sought. In this review, polyphenols were identified and classified according to their chemical structure, and the sources of these polyphenol molecules are indicated. The cardioprotective, ROS scavenging, anti-aging, anticancer properties of polyphenolic compounds have been demonstrated by the results of many studies, and these natural antioxidant molecules are potential alternative therapeutic agents.
The Role and Regulation of Thromboxane A2 Signaling in Cancer-Trojan Horses and Misdirection
Authors: Ashton Anthony W. , Zhang Yunjia , Cazzolli Rosanna , Honn Kenneth V.
Published: September 2022

Over the last two decades, there has been an increasing awareness of the role of eicosanoids in the development and progression of several types of cancer, including breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers. Several processes involved in cancer development, such as cell growth, migration, and angiogenesis, are regulated by the arachidonic acid derivative thromboxane A2 (TXA2). Higher levels of circulating TXA2 are observed in patients with multiple cancers, and this is accompanied by overexpression of TXA2 synthase (TBXAS1, TXA2S) and/or TXA2 receptors (TBXA2R, TP). Overexpression of TXA2S or TP in tumor cells is generally associated with poor prognosis, reduced survival, and metastatic disease. However, the role of TXA2 signaling in the stroma during oncogenesis has been underappreciated. TXA2 signaling regulates the tumor microenvironment by modulating angiogenic potential, tumor ECM stiffness, and host immune response. Moreover, the by-products of TXA2S are highly mutagenic and oncogenic, adding to the overall phenotype where TXA2 synthesis promotes tumor formation at various levels. The stability of synthetic enzymes and receptors in this pathway in most cancers (with few mutations reported) suggests that TXA2 signaling is a viable target for adjunct therapy in various tumors to reduce immune evasion, primary tumor growth, and metastasis.
Performance Comparison of a Duplex Implementation of the CDC EUA 2019-nCoV Assay with the Seegene Allplex-SARS-CoV-2 Assay for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Nasopharyngeal Swab Samples
Authors: Jiménez Karen Marcela , Fonseca-Mendoza Dora Janeth , Morel Adrien , Ortega-Recalde Oscar , Contreras Bravo Nora Constanza , Velandia-Piedrahita Camilo Andres , Steevens Adriana , Caldas Luisa Daniela , Ribón Juan Pablo , Sánchez Martha , Restrepo Carlos Martin , Cabrera Rodrigo
Published: September 2022

RT-PCR tests have become the gold standard for detecting the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the extreme number of cases in periodic waves of infection, there is a severe financial and logistical strain on diagnostic laboratories. For this reason, alternative implementations and validations of academic protocols that employ the lowest cost and the most widely available equipment and reagents found in different regions are essential. In this study, we report an alternative implementation of the EUA 2019-nCoV CDC assay which uses a previously characterized duplex PCR reaction for the N1 and RNAse P target regions and an additional uniplex reaction for the N2 target region. Taking advantage of the Abbott m2000 Sample Preparation System and NEB Luna Universal Probe One-Step RT-qPCR kit, some of the most widely available and inexpensive nucleic acid extraction and amplification platforms, this modified test shows state-of-the-art analytical and clinical sensitivities and specificities when compared with the Seegene Allplex-SARS-CoV-2 assay. This implementation has the potential to be verified and implemented by diagnostic laboratories around the world to guarantee low-cost RT-PCR tests that can take advantage of widely available equipment and reagents.
The Rationale for the Optimal Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution Protocol
Authors: Goncharov Roman , Vorontsova Irina , Kirichenko Daniil , Filipov Ilya , Adam Iurii , Chistiakov Vladimir , Smirnov Semyon , Nasedkin Boris , Pervushin Boris , Kargina Daria , Samsonov Eduard , Egorov Vladimir
Published: September 2022

This article describes the current technical level of developments in the field of continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD). Various classifications are described, the criteria are analyzed, and the optimal protocol is selected. The analysis is focused around device-dependent schemes with a theoretical emphasis, and therefore, a detailed analysis of device-independent CV-QKD and side-channel attacks is out of the scope of the work. However, the latter, one way or another, is taken into account when describing possible classifications. The choice of the optimal protocol was carried out, first of all, from the potential possibility of integration into existing network telecommunication infrastructures. Predominantly, the general classification is carried out in such a way that it is possible to draw up a specific protocol, depending on the task of implementation.
Development of a Standardized Method for Measuring Bioadhesion and Mucoadhesion That Is Applicable to Various Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms
Authors: Amorós-Galicia Lola , Nardi-Ricart Anna , Verdugo-González Clara , Arroyo-García Carmen Martina , García-Montoya Encarna , Pérez-Lozano Pilar , Suñé-Negre Josep Mª , Suñé-Pou Marc
Published: September 2022

Although some methods for measuring bioadhesion/mucoadhesion have been proposed, a standardized method is not yet available. This is expected to hinder systematic comparisons of results across studies. This study aimed to design a single/systematic in vitro method for measuring bioadhesion/mucoadhesion that is applicable to various pharmaceutical dosage forms. To this end, we measured the peak force and work of adhesion of minitablets, pellets, and a bioadhesive emulsion using a texture analyzer. Porcine tissue was used to simulate human stomach/skin conditions. The results of these formulations were then compared to those for formulations without the bioadhesive product. We conducted a case study to assess the stability of a bioadhesive emulsion. The results for the two parameters assessed were contact time = 60 s and contact force = 0.5 N at a detachment speed of 0.1 mm/s. Significant differences were observed between the bioadhesive and control formulations, thus demonstrating the adhesive capacity of the bioadhesive formulations. In this way, a systematic method for assessing the bioadhesive capacity of pharmaceutical dosage forms was developed. The method proposed here may enable comparisons of results across studies, i.e., results obtained using the same and different pharmaceutical formulations (in terms of their bioadhesion/mucoadhesion capacity). This method may also facilitate the selection of potentially suitable formulations and adhesive products (in terms of bioadhesive properties).
A Fast Accurate Attention-Enhanced ResNet Model for Fiber-Optic Distributed Acoustic Sensor (DAS) Signal Recognition in Complicated Urban Environments
Authors: Liu Xinyu , Wu Huijuan , Wang Yufeng , Tu Yunlin , Sun Yuwen , Liu Liang , Song Yuanfeng , Wu Yu , Yan Guofeng
Published: September 2022

The fiber-optic distributed acoustic sensor (DAS), which utilizes existing communication cables as its sensing media, plays an important role in urban infrastructure monitoring and natural disaster prediction. In the face of a wide, dynamic environment in urban areas, a fast, accurate DAS signal recognition method is proposed with an end-to-end attention-enhanced ResNet model. In preprocessing, an objective evaluation method is used to compare the distinguishability of different input features with the Euclidean distance between the posterior probabilities classified correctly and incorrectly; then, an end-to-end ResNet is optimized with the chosen time-frequency feature as input, and a convolutional block attention module (CBAM) is added, which can quickly focus on key information from different channels and specific signal structures and improves the system recognition performance further. The results show that the proposed ResNet+CBAM model has the best performance in recognition accuracy, convergence rate, generalization capability, and computational efficiency compared with 1-D CNN, 2-D CNN, ResNet, and 2-D CNN+CBAM. An average accuracy of above 99.014% can be achieved in field testing; while dealing with multi-scenario scenes and inconsistent laying or burying environments, it can still be kept above 91.08%. The time cost is only 3.3 ms for each signal sample, which is quite applicable in online long-distance distributed monitoring applications.
Research on the Ablation Characteristics and Thermomechanical Coupling Matching of Continuous-Wave/Pulsed Combined Lasers
Authors: Xiao Jing , Feng Guoying , Ren Gang , Han Jinhua , Xia Huijun , Wang You , Deng Wantao , Chen Tianyu , Guo Rongjun
Published: September 2022

In laser processing and electro-optical countermeasures, the laser ablation efficiency on the target is of great importance. Compared with traditional single laser irradiation, ablation by continuous-wave (CW)/pulsed combined laser has the advantages of high ablation efficiency, strong controllability, and low laser energy output requirements. However, current research on the synergistic mechanism and matching of combined laser irradiation requires improvement. In this study, damage experiments were mainly conducted on two modes of combined laser, CW/millisecond (CW/ms) and CW/nanosecond (CW/ns) laser. The temperature distribution, ablation rate, and ablation range under different irradiation conditions were tested quantitatively. The ablation characteristics and thermomechanical coupling matching of the combined laser were analysed and physically modelled. The results showed that compared with the pulsed laser alone, the ablation rate of the CW/ms combined mode was greater by approximately one order of magnitude, while that of the CW/ms combined mode was greater by approximately three orders of magnitude. Moreover, the thermomechanical coupling matching of the combined laser can be regarded as the matching of the impact pressure distribution of the pulsed laser with the range of the melting pool. The results of this study may offer guidance for further improving the synergistic enhancement damage mechanism of the combined laser.
Novel Wet Electrospinning Inside a Reactive Pre-Ceramic Gel to Yield Advanced Nanofiber-Reinforced Geopolymer Composites
Authors: Xu Yunzhi , Guo Ping , Akono Ange-Therese
Published: September 2022

Electrospinning is a versatile approach to generate nanofibers in situ. Yet, recently, wet electrospinning has been introduced as a more efficient way to deposit isolated fibers inside bulk materials. In wet electrospinning, a liquid bath is adopted, instead of a solid collector, for fiber collection. However, despite several studies focused on wet electrospinning to yield polymer composites, few studies have investigated wet electrospinning to yield ceramic composites. In this paper, we propose a novel in-situ fabrication approach for nanofiber-reinforced ceramic composites based on an enhanced wet-electrospinning method. Our method uses electrospinning to draw polymer nanofibers directly into a reactive pre-ceramic gel, which is later activated to yield advanced nanofiber-reinforced ceramic composites. We demonstrate our method by investigating wet electrospun Polyacrylonitrile and Poly(ethylene oxide) fiber-reinforced geopolymer composites, with fiber weight fractions in the range 0.1–1.0 wt%. Wet electrospinning preserves the amorphous structure of geopolymer while changing the molecular arrangement. Wet electrospinning leads to an increase in both the fraction of mesopores and the overall porosity of geopolymer composites. The indentation modulus is in the range 6.76–8.90 GPa and the fracture toughness is in the range 0.49–0.76 MPam with a clear stiffening and toughening effect observed for Poly(ethylene oxide)-reinforced geopolymer composites. This work demonstrates the viability of wet electrospinning to fabricate multifunctional nanofiber-reinforced composites.
Employment of 3D-Printed Bilayer Structures with Embedded Continuous Fibers for Thermal Management Applications: An Axial Cooling 4D-Printed Fan Application Case Study
Authors: Zouboulis Panagiotis , Koumoulos Elias P. , Karatza Anna
Published: September 2022

Bi-material composite structures with continuous fibers embedded on polymer substrates exhibit self-morphing under thermal stimulus induced by the different coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) between the two constituent materials. In this study, a series of such structures are investigated in terms of fiber patterns and materials to achieve programmable and reversible transformations that can be exploited for thermal management applications. Stemming from this investigation’s results, an axial cooling fan prototype is designed and fabricated with composite blades that passively alter their shape, specifically their curvature and twist angle, under different operating temperatures. A series of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are performed, subjecting the fan’s geometry to different flow temperatures to measure differences in airflow deriving from the induced shape transformations. Corresponding experimental trials are additionally performed, aiming to validate the simulation results. The results indicate the potential of utilizing bilayer self-morphing configurations for the fabrication of smart components for cooling purposes.
Competencia digital y docente en la formación investigativa de la carrera de ingeniería de las telecomunicaciones
Authors: Atalaya Pisco César Augusto
Published: September 2022

Observándose los cambios actuales respecto a las metodologías de enseñanza docente y la virtualización de la educación, el presente estudio planteó como objetivo establecer la incidencia de la competencia digital y la competencia docente en la formación investigativa en ingeniería de las telecomunicaciones de una universidad pública. Esta investigación cuenta con un enfoque cuantitativo, diseño transversal, correlacional causal y no experimental. La muestra estuvo constituida por 234 estudiantes, la cual fue extraída de una población de 500 estudiantes. La técnica empleada para el proceso de recolección de datos fue la encuesta, apoyándose en 3 instrumentos de escala ordinal de Likert para las variables en estudio, los que a su vez fueron sometidos a los respectivos análisis de confiabilidad por el Alfa de Cronbach y validado por juicio de expertos. Finalmente, los resultados obtenidos a través del modelo de regresión logística ordinal mostraron valores de Nagelkerke de 0.368, Wald superiores a 12.737 y un p-valor de 0.000, los cuales permitieron aceptar que la competencia digital y docente inciden de manera significativa en la formación investigativa en ingeniería de las telecomunicaciones de una universidad pública.