bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silver Nanoparticles Stable to Oxidation and Silver Ion Release Show Size-Dependent Toxicity In Vivo
Authors: Cunningham Brittany , Engstrom Arek M. , Harper Bryan J. , Harper Stacey L. , Mackiewicz Marilyn R.
Published: June 2021

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are widely used in commerce, however, the effect of their physicochemical properties on toxicity remains debatable because of the confounding presence of Ag+ ions. Thus, we designed a series of AgNPs that are stable to surface oxidation and Ag+ ion release. AgNPs were coated with a hybrid lipid membrane comprised of L-phosphatidylcholine (PC), sodium oleate (SOA), and a stoichiometric amount of hexanethiol (HT) to produce oxidant-resistant AgNPs, Ag–SOA–PC–HT. The stability of 7-month aged, 20–100 nm Ag–SOA–PC–HT NPs were assessed using UV–Vis, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), while the toxicity of the nanomaterials was assessed using a well-established, 5-day embryonic zebrafish assay at concentrations ranging from 0–12 mg/L. There was no change in the size of the AgNPs from freshly made samples or 7-month aged samples and minimal Ag+ ion release (<0.2%) in fishwater (FW) up to seven days. Toxicity studies revealed AgNP size- and concentration-dependent effects. Increased mortality and sublethal morphological abnormalities were observed at higher concentrations with smaller nanoparticle sizes. This study, for the first time, determined the effect of AgNP size on toxicity in the absence of Ag+ ions as a confounding variable.
Nanoporosity of Carbon–Sulfur Nanocomposites toward the Lithium–Sulfur Battery Electrochemistry
Authors: Yu Chien-Hsun , Yen Yin-Ju , Chung Sheng-Heng
Published: June 2021

An ideal high-loading carbon–sulfur nanocomposite would enable high-energy-density lithium–sulfur batteries to show high electrochemical utilization, stability, and rate capability. Therefore, in this paper, we investigate the effects of the nanoporosity of various porous conductive carbon substrates (e.g., nonporous, microporous, micro/mesoporous, and macroporous carbons) on the electrochemical characteristics and cell performances of the resulting high-loading carbon–sulfur composite cathodes. The comparison analysis of this work demonstrates the importance of having high microporosity in the sulfur cathode substrate. The high-loading microporous carbon–sulfur cathode attains a high sulfur loading of 4 mg cm−2 and sulfur content of 80 wt% at a low electrolyte-to-sulfur ratio of 10 µL mg−1. The lithium–sulfur cell with the microporous carbon–sulfur cathode demonstrates excellent electrochemical performances, attaining a high discharge capacity approaching 1100 mA∙h g−1, a high-capacity retention of 75% after 100 cycles, and superior high-rate capability of C/20–C/3 with excellent reversibility.
Pore Modification and Phosphorus Doping Effect on Phosphoric Acid-Activated Fe-N-C for Alkaline Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Kim Jong Gyeong , Han Sunghoon , Pak Chanho
Published: June 2021

The price and scarcity of platinum has driven up the demand for non-precious metal catalysts such as Fe-N-C. In this study, the effects of phosphoric acid (PA) activation and phosphorus doping were investigated using Fe-N-C catalysts prepared using SBA-15 as a sacrificial template. The physical and structural changes caused by the addition of PA were analyzed by nitrogen adsorption/desorption and X-ray diffraction. Analysis of the electronic states of Fe, N, and P were conducted by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The amount and size of micropores varied depending on the PA content, with changes in pore structure observed using 0.066 g of PA. The electronic states of Fe and N did not change significantly after treatment with PA, and P was mainly found in states bonded to oxygen or carbon. When 0.135 g of PA was introduced per 1 g of silica, a catalytic activity which was increased slightly by 10 mV at −3 mA/cm2 was observed. A change in Fe-N-C stability was also observed through the introduction of PA.
Efficient Nanocrystal Photovoltaics via Blade Coating Active Layer
Authors: Xiao Kening , Huang Qichuan , Luo Jia , Tang Huansong , Xu Ao , Wang Pu , Ren Hao , Qin Donghuan , Xu Wei , Wang Dan
Published: June 2021

CdTe semiconductor nanocrystal (NC) solar cells have attracted much attention in recent year due to their low-cost solution fabrication process. However, there are still few reports about the fabrication of large area NC solar cells under ambient conditions. Aiming to push CdTe NC solar cells one step forward to the industry, this study used a novel blade coating technique to fabricate CdTe NC solar cells with different areas (0.16, 0.3, 0.5 cm2) under ambient conditions. By optimizing the deposition parameters of the CdTe NC’s active layer, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of NC solar cells showed a large improvement. Compared to the conventional spin-coated device, a lower post-treatment temperature is required by blade coated NC solar cells. Under the optimal deposition conditions, the NC solar cells with 0.16, 0.3, and 0.5 cm2 areas exhibited PCEs of 3.58, 2.82, and 1.93%, respectively. More importantly, the NC solar cells fabricated via the blading technique showed high stability where almost no efficiency degradation appeared after keeping the devices under ambient conditions for over 18 days. This is promising for low-cost, roll-by-roll, and large area industrial fabrication.
Precipitation at Room Temperature as a Fast and Versatile Method for Calcium Phosphate/TiO2 Nanocomposites Synthesis
Authors: Erceg Ina , Selmani Atiđa , Gajović Andreja , Radatović Borna , Šegota Suzana , Ćurlin Marija , Strasser Vida , Kontrec Jasminka , Kralj Damir , Maltar-Strmečki Nadica , Barbir Rinea , Pem Barbara , Vinković Vrček Ivana , Dutour Sikirić Maja
Published: June 2021

The constantly growing need for advanced bone regeneration materials has motivated the development of calcium phosphates (CaPs) composites with a different metal or metal-oxide nanomaterials and their economical and environmentally friendly production. Here, two procedures for the synthesis of CaPs composites with TiO2 nanoplates (TiNPl) and nanowires (TiNWs) were tested, with the immersion of TiO2 nanomaterials (TiNMs) in corrected simulated body fluid (c-SBF) and precipitation of CaP in the presence of TiNMs. The materials obtained were analyzed by powder X-ray diffraction, spectroscopic and microscopic techniques, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering, and their hemocompatibility and ability to induce reactive oxygen species were evaluated. After 28 days of immersion in c-SBF, no significant CaP coating was formed on TiNMs. However, the composites with calcium-deficient apatite (CaDHA) were obtained after one hour in the spontaneous precipitation system. In the absence of TiNMs, CaDHA was also formed, indicating that control of the CaP phase formed can be accomplished by fine-tuning conditions in the precipitation system. Although the morphology and size of crystalline domains of CaDHA obtained on the different nanomaterials differed, no significant difference was detected in their local structure. Composites showed low reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and did not induce hemolysis. The results obtained indicate that precipitation is a suitable and fast method for the preparation of CaPs/TiNMs nanocomposites which shows great potential for biomedical applications.
Preparation and Properties of Electrospun Phenylethynyl—Terminated Polyimide Nano-Fibrous Membranes with Potential Applications as Solvent-Free and High-Temperature Resistant Adhesives for Harsh Environments
Authors: Qi Hao-ran , Shen Deng-xiong , Jia Yan-jiang , An Yuan-cheng , Wu Hao , Wei Xin-ying , Zhang Yan , Zhi Xin-xin , Liu Jin-gang
Published: June 2021

High-temperature-resistant polymeric adhesives with high servicing temperatures and high adhesion strengths are highly desired in aerospace, aviation, microelectronic and other high-tech areas. The currently used high-temperature resistant polymeric adhesives, such as polyamic acid (PAA), are usually made from the high contents of solvents in the composition, which might cause adhesion failure due to the undesirable voids caused by the evaporation of the solvents. In the current work, electrospun preimidized polyimide (PI) nano-fibrous membranes (NFMs) were proposed to be used as solvent-free or solvent-less adhesives for stainless steel adhesion. In order to enhance the adhesion reliability of the PI NFMs, thermally crosslinkable phenylethynyl end-cappers were incorporated into the PIs derived from 3,3’,4,4’-oxydiphthalic anhydride (ODPA) and 3,3-bis[4-(4-aminophenoxy)phenyl]phthalide (BAPPT). The derived phenylethynyl-terminated PETI-10K and PETI-20K with the controlled molecular weights of 10,000 g mol−1 and 20,000 g mol−1, respectively, showed good solubility in polar aprotic solvents, such as N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (NMP) and N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc). The PI NFMs were successfully fabricated by electrospinning with the PETI/DMAc solutions. The ultrafine PETI NFMs showed the average fiber diameters (dav) of 627 nm for PETI-10K 695 nm for PETI-20K, respectively. The PETI NFMs showed good thermal resistance, which is reflected in the glass transition temperatures (Tgs) above 270 °C. The PETI NFMs exhibited excellent thermoplasticity at elevated temperatures. The stainless steel adherends were successfully adhered using the PETI NFMs as the adhesives. The PI NFMs provided good adhesion to the stainless steels with the single lap shear strengths (LSS) higher than 20.0 MPa either at room temperature (25 °C) or at an elevated temperature (200 °C).
Cross-Species Comparisons of Nanoparticle Interactions with Innate Immune Systems: A Methodological Review
Authors: Swartzwelter Benjamin J. , Mayall Craig , Alijagic Andi , Barbero Francesco , Ferrari Eleonora , Hernadi Szabolcs , Michelini Sara , Navarro Pacheco Natividad Isabel , Prinelli Alessandra , Swart Elmer , Auguste Manon
Published: June 2021

Many components of the innate immune system are evolutionarily conserved and shared across many living organisms, from plants and invertebrates to humans. Therefore, these shared features can allow the comparative study of potentially dangerous substances, such as engineered nanoparticles (NPs). However, differences of methodology and procedure between diverse species and models make comparison of innate immune responses to NPs between organisms difficult in many cases. To this aim, this review provides an overview of suitable methods and assays that can be used to measure NP immune interactions across species in a multidisciplinary approach. The first part of this review describes the main innate immune defense characteristics of the selected models that can be associated to NPs exposure. In the second part, the different modes of exposure to NPs across models (considering isolated cells or whole organisms) and the main endpoints measured are discussed. In this synergistic perspective, we provide an overview of the current state of important cross-disciplinary immunological models to study NP-immune interactions and identify future research needs. As such, this paper could be used as a methodological reference point for future nano-immunosafety studies.
Low-Threshold Microlasers Based on Holographic Dual-Gratings
Authors: Zhai Tianrui , Han Liang , Ma Xiaojie , Wang Xiaolei
Published: June 2021

Among the efforts to improve the performances of microlasers, optimization of the gain properties and cavity parameters of these lasers has attracted significant attention recently. Distributed feedback lasers, as one of the most promising candidate technologies for electrically pumped microlasers, can be combined with dual-gratings. This combination provides additional freedom for the design of the laser cavity. Here, a holographic dual-grating is designed to improve the distributed feedback laser performance. The holographic dual-grating laser consists of a colloidal quantum dot film with two parallel gratings, comprising first-order (210 nm) and second-order (420 nm) gratings that can be fabricated easily using a combination of spin coating and interference lithography. The feedback and the output from the cavity are controlled using the first-order grating and the second-order grating, respectively. Through careful design and analysis of the dual-grating, a balance is achieved between the feedback and the cavity output such that the lasing threshold based on the dual-grating is nearly half the threshold of conventional distributed feedback lasers. Additionally, the holographic dual-grating laser shows a high level of stability because of the high stability of the colloidal quantum dots against photobleaching.
A Survey of Current Resources to Study lncRNA-Protein Interactions
Authors: Philip Melcy , Chen Tyrone , Tyagi Sonika
Published: June 2021

Phenotypes are driven by regulated gene expression, which in turn are mediated by complex interactions between diverse biological molecules. Protein–DNA interactions such as histone and transcription factor binding are well studied, along with RNA–RNA interactions in short RNA silencing of genes. In contrast, lncRNA-protein interaction (LPI) mechanisms are comparatively unknown, likely directed by the difficulties in studying LPI. However, LPI are emerging as key interactions in epigenetic mechanisms, playing a role in development and disease. Their importance is further highlighted by their conservation across kingdoms. Hence, interest in LPI research is increasing. We therefore review the current state of the art in lncRNA-protein interactions. We specifically surveyed recent computational methods and databases which researchers can exploit for LPI investigation. We discovered that algorithm development is heavily reliant on a few generic databases containing curated LPI information. Additionally, these databases house information at gene-level as opposed to transcript-level annotations. We show that early methods predict LPI using molecular docking, have limited scope and are slow, creating a data processing bottleneck. Recently, machine learning has become the strategy of choice in LPI prediction, likely due to the rapid growth in machine learning infrastructure and expertise. While many of these methods have notable limitations, machine learning is expected to be the basis of modern LPI prediction algorithms.
Cenobamate, a Sodium Channel Inhibitor and Positive Allosteric Modulator of GABAA Ion Channels, for Partial Onset Seizures in Adults: A Comprehensive Review and Clinical Implications
Authors: Latimer Dustin R. , Edinoff Amber N. , Ruff Rachel D. , Rooney Kelsey C. , Penny Kayla M. , Patel Shaan B. , Sabbenahalli Suresh , Kaye Adam M. , Cornett Elyse M. , Viswanath Omar , Urits Ivan , Kaye Alan D.
Published: June 2021

Medical management of epilepsy seeks to eliminate or to reduce the frequency of seizures, help patients maintain a normal lifestyle, and maintain psychosocial and occupational activities, while avoiding the negative side effects of long-term treatment. Current FDA approved drugs have been shown to have similar efficacy; however, they all share a commonality of having side effects that have the potential to significantly reduce a patient’s quality of life. Cenobamate, a newly-FDA approved drug used to treat partial-onset seizures in adult patients, has demonstrated promise in that it works on two proposed mechanisms that are commonly associated with epilepsy. Cenobamate acts as a positive allosteric modulator of the GABAA ion channels and is effective in reducing repetitive neuronal firing by inhibition of voltage-gated sodium channels, although the complete mechanism of action is currently unknown. The efficacy of Cenobamate with its low toxicity and adverse drug reaction profile emphasizes the need to further evaluate antiepileptic therapies containing sulfamoylphenyl and/or carbamate moieties in their chemical structure. Recent studies have found more patients to be seizure free during the maintenance period when compared to placebo. The most common side effects reported in with Cenobamate are somnolence, dizziness, headache, nausea, and fatigue. There are currently ongoing phase III studies looking to further evaluate the long-term benefits of Cenobamate and investigate adverse events.
Nutrition in Pediatric Gastroenterology
Authors: Romano Claudio , Dipasquale Valeria
Published: June 2021

Nutrition and intestinal function are strictly interrelated [...]
A Systematic Review of the Dietary Choline Impact on Cognition from a Psychobiological Approach: Insights from Animal Studies
Authors: Gámiz Fernando , Gallo Milagros
Published: June 2021

The influence of dietary choline availability on cognition is currently being suggested by animal and human studies which have focused mainly on the early developmental stages. The aim of this review is to systematically search through the available rodent (rats and mice) research published during the last two decades that has assessed the effect of dietary choline interventions on cognition and related attentional and emotional processes for the entire life span. The review has been conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement guidelines covering peer-reviewed studies included in PubMed and Scopus databases. After excluding duplicates and applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria we have reviewed a total of 44 articles published in 25 journals with the contribution of 146 authors. The results are analyzed based on the timing and duration of the dietary intervention and the behavioral tests applied, amongst other variables. Overall, the available results provide compelling support for the relevance of dietary choline in cognition. The beneficial effects of choline supplementation is more evident in recognition rather than in spatial memory tasks when assessing nonpathological samples whilst these effects extend to other relational memory tasks in neuropathological models. However, the limited number of studies that have evaluated other cognitive functions suggest a wider range of potential effects. More research is needed to draw conclusions about the critical variables and the nature of the impact on specific cognitive processes. The results are discussed on the terms of the theoretical framework underlying the relationship between the brain systems and cognition.
Beyond the Paradigm of Weight Loss in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: From Pathophysiology to Novel Dietary Approaches
Authors: Armandi Angelo , Schattenberg Jörn M.
Published: June 2021

Current treatment recommendations for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) rely heavily on lifestyle interventions. The Mediterranean diet and physical activity, aiming at weight loss, have shown good results in achieving an improvement of this liver disease. However, concerns related to compliance and food accessibility limit the feasibility of this approach, and data on the long-term effects on liver-related outcomes are lacking. Insulin resistance is a central aspect in the pathophysiology of NAFLD; therefore, interventions aiming at the improvement of insulin sensitivity may be preferable. In this literature review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the available evidence on nutritional approaches in the management of NAFLD, involving low-calorie diets, isocaloric diets, and the novel schemes of intermittent fasting. In addition, we explore the harmful role of single nutrients on liver-specific key metabolic pathways, the role of gene susceptibility and microbiota, and behavioral aspects that may impact liver disease and are often underreported in clinical setting. At present, the high variability in terms of study populations and liver-specific outcomes within nutritional studies limits the generalizability of the results and highlights the urgent need of a tailored and standardized approach, as seen in regulatory trials in Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH).
Modifiable Determinants of Postpartum Weight Loss in Women with Obesity: A Secondary Analysis of the UPBEAT Trial
Authors: Dalrymple Kathryn V. , Uwhubetine Onome , Flynn Angela C. , Pasupathy Dharmintra , Briley Annette L. , Relph Sophie A. , Seed Paul T. , O’Keeffe Majella , Poston Lucilla
Published: June 2021

Pregnancy can alter a woman’s weight gain trajectory across the life course and contribute to the development of obesity through retention of weight gained during pregnancy. This study aimed to identify modifiable determinants associated with postpartum weight retention (PPWR; calculated by the difference in pre-pregnancy and 6 month postpartum weight) in 667 women with obesity from the UPBEAT study. We examined the relationship between PPWR and reported glycaemic load, energy intake, and smoking status in pregnancy, excessive gestational weight gain (GWG), mode of delivery, self-reported postpartum physical activity (low, moderate, and high), and mode of infant feeding (breast, formula, and mixed). At the 6 month visit, 48% (n = 320) of women were at or above pre-pregnancy weight. Overall, PPWR was negative (−0.06 kg (−42.0, 40.4)). Breastfeeding for ≥4 months, moderate or high levels of physical activity, and GWG ≤9 kg were associated with negative PPWR. These three determinants were combined to provide a modifiable factor score (range 0–3); for each added variable, a further reduction in PPWR of 3.0 kg (95% confidence interval 3.76, 2.25) occurred compared to women with no modifiable factors. This study identified three additive determinants of PPWR loss. These provide modifiable targets during pregnancy and the postnatal period to enable women with obesity to return to their pre-pregnancy weight.
The Association of Low Vitamin K Status with Mortality in a Cohort of 138 Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Linneberg Allan , Kampmann Freja Bach , Israelsen Simone Bastrup , Andersen Liv Rabøl , Jørgensen Henrik Løvendahl , Sandholt Håkon , Jørgensen Niklas Rye , Thysen Sanne Marie , Benfield Thomas
Published: June 2021

It has recently been hypothesized that vitamin K could play a role in COVID-19. We aimed to test the hypotheses that low vitamin K status is a common characteristic of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 compared to population controls and that low vitamin K status predicts mortality in COVID-19 patients. In a cohort of 138 COVID-19 patients and 138 population controls, we measured plasma dephosphorylated-uncarboxylated Matrix Gla Protein (dp-ucMGP), which reflects the functional vitamin K status in peripheral tissue. Forty-three patients died within 90 days from admission. In patients, levels of dp-ucMGP differed significantly between survivors (mean 877; 95% CI: 778; 995) and non-survivors (mean 1445; 95% CI: 1148; 1820). Furthermore, levels of dp-ucMGP (pmol/L) were considerably higher in patients (mean 1022; 95% CI: 912; 1151) compared to controls (mean 509; 95% CI: 485; 540). Cox regression survival analysis showed that increasing levels of dp-ucMGP (reflecting low vitamin K status) were associated with higher mortality risk (sex- and age-adjusted hazard ratio per doubling of dp-ucMGP was 1.49, 95% CI: 1.03; 2.24). The association attenuated and became statistically insignificant after adjustment for co-morbidities (sex, age, CVD, diabetes, BMI, and eGFR adjusted hazard ratio per doubling of dp-ucMGP was 1.22, 95% CI: 0.82; 1.80). In conclusion, we found that low vitamin K status was associated with mortality in patients with COVID-19 in sex- and age-adjusted analyses, but not in analyses additionally adjusted for co-morbidities. Randomized clinical trials would be needed to clarify a potential role, if any, of vitamin K in the course of COVID-19.
Pseudorabies Virus Infections
Authors: Klupp Barbara G.
Published: June 2021

Suid alphaherpesvirus 1 (SuHV-1), better known as Pseudorabies virus (PrV), an alphaherpesvirus of swine, is the causative agent of Aujeszky’s Disease [...]
Molecular Detection of Novel Borrelia Species, Candidatus Borrelia javanense, in Amblyomma javanense Ticks from Pangolins
Authors: Jiang Bao-Gui , Wu Ai-Qiong , Jiang Jia-Fu , Yuan Ting-Ting , Xu Qiang , Lv Chen-Long , Chen Jin-Jin , Sun Yi , Fang Li-Qun , Ruan Xiang-Dong , Que Teng-Cheng
Published: June 2021

A novel Borrelia species, Candidatus Borrelia javanense, was found in ectoparasite ticks, Amblyomma javanense, from Manis javanica pangolins seized in anti-smuggling operations in southern China. Overall, 12 tick samples in 227 (overall prevalence 5.3%) were positive for Candidatus B. javanense, 9 (5.1%) in 176 males, and 3 (5.9%) in 51 females. The phylogenetic analysis, based on the 16S rRNA gene and the flagellin gene sequences of the Borrelia sp., exhibited strong evidence that Candidatus B. javanense did not belong to the Lyme disease Borrelia group and the relapsing fever Borrelia group but another lineage of Borrelia. The discovery of the novel Borrelia species suggests that A. javanense may be the transmit vector, and the M. javanica pangolins should be considered a possible origin reservoir in the natural circulation of these new pathogens. To our knowledge, this is the first identification of a novel Borrelia species agent in A. javanense from pangolins. Whether the novel agent is pathogenic to humans is unknown and needs further research.
Synergistic In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Pomegranate Rind Extract and Zinc (II) against Micrococcus luteus under Planktonic and Biofilm Conditions
Authors: Celiksoy Vildan , Moses Rachael L. , Sloan Alastair J. , Moseley Ryan , Heard Charles M.
Published: June 2021

Infectious diseases caused by microbial biofilms are a major clinical problem, and new antimicrobial agents that can inhibit biofilm formation and eradicate pre-formed biofilms are urgently needed. Pomegranate extracts are a well-established folkloric medicine and have been used in the treatment of infectious diseases since ancient times, whilst the addition of metal ions, including zinc (II), has enhanced the antimicrobial activity of pomegranate. Micrococcus luteus is generally a non-pathogenic skin commensal bacterium, although it can act as an opportunistic pathogen and cause serious infections, particularly involving catheterization and comorbidities. The aims of this study were to evaluate the holistic activity of pomegranate rind extract (PRE), Zn (II), and PRE/Zn (II) individually and in combination against M. luteus under both planktonic and biofilm conditions. Antimicrobial activity was detected in vitro using the broth dilution method, and synergistic activity was determined using checkerboard and time-kill assays. Effects on biofilm formation and eradication were determined by crystal violet and BacLightTM Live/Dead staining. PRE and Zn (II) exerted antimicrobial activity against M. luteus under both planktonic and biofilm conditions. After 4 h, potent synergistic bactericidal activity was also found when PRE and Zn (II) were co-administered under planktonic conditions (log reductions: PRE 1.83 ± 0.24, Zn (II) 3.4 ± 0.08, and PRE/Zn (II) 6.88 ± 1.02; p < 0.0001). In addition, greater heterogeneity was induced in the structure of M. luteus biofilm using the PRE/Zn (II) combination compared to when PRE and Zn (II) were applied individually. The activity of PRE and the PRE/Zn (II) combination could offer a novel antimicrobial therapy for the treatment of disease-associated infections caused by M. luteus and potentially other bacteria.
Arterial Hypertension: Individual Therapeutic Approaches—From DNA Sequencing to Gender Differentiation and New Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Luca Constantin-Tudor , Crisan Simina , Cozma Dragos , Negru Alina , Lazar Mihai-Andrei , Vacarescu Cristina , Trofenciuc Mihai , Rachieru Ciprian , Craciun Laura Maria , Gaita Dan , Petrescu Lucian , Mischie Alexandru , Iurciuc Stela
Published: June 2021

The aim of this paper is to provide an accurate overview regarding the current recommended approach for antihypertensive treatment. The importance of DNA sequencing in understanding the complex implication of genetics in hypertension could represent an important step in understanding antihypertensive treatment as well as in developing new medical strategies. Despite a pool of data from studies regarding cardiovascular risk factors emphasizing a worse prognosis for female patients rather than male patients, there are also results indicating that women are more likely to be predisposed to the use of antihypertensive medication and less likely to develop uncontrolled hypertension. Moreover, lower systolic blood pressure values are associated with increased cardiovascular risk in women compared to men. The prevalence, awareness and, most importantly, treatment of hypertension is variable in male and female patients, since the mechanisms responsible for this pathology may be different and closely related to gender factors such as the renin–angiotensin system, sympathetic nervous activity, endothelin-1, sex hormones, aldosterone, and the immune system. Thus, gender-related antihypertensive treatment individualization may be a valuable tool in improving female patients’ prognosis.
Elasticity Changes in the Crystalline Lens during Oxidative Damage and the Antioxidant Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid Measured by Optical Coherence Elastography
Authors: Zhang Hongqiu , Singh Manmohan , Nair Achuth , Larin Kirill V. , Aglyamov Salavat R.
Published: June 2021

Age-related cataracts are one of the most prevalent causes of visual impairment around the world. Understanding the mechanisms of cataract development and progression is essential to enable early clinical diagnosis and treatment to preserve visual acuity. Reductive chemicals are potential medicines effective on cataract treatment. In this work, we investigated the cataract-induced oxidative damage in the crystalline lens and a kind of reductant, α-lipoic acid (ALA), ability to reduce the damage. We created oxidative environment to investigate the relationship between the progression of oxidative cataract and lenticular biomechanical properties measured by dynamic optical coherence elastography in porcine crystalline lenses ex vivo. The efficacy of ALA to minimize the stiffening of the lens was also quantified. The results showed a significant increase in Young’s modulus of the lens due to the formation of the oxidative cataract. We found a statistically significant difference between Young’s modulus of the lenses stored in phosphate-buffered saline and ALA solution after incubation in H2O2 solution for 3 h (43.0 ± 9.0 kPa versus 20.7 ± 3.5 kPa, respectively). These results show that the lens stiffness increases during oxidative cataract formation, and ALA has the potential to reverse stiffening of the lens caused by oxidative damage.
Key Distribution Scheme for Optical Fiber Channel Based on SNR Feature Measurement
Authors: Wang Xiangqing , Zhang Jie , Wang Bo , Zhu Kongni , Song Haokun , Li Ruixia , Zhang Fenghui
Published: June 2021

With the increase in the popularity of cloud computing and big data applications, the amount of sensitive data transmitted through optical networks has increased dramatically. Furthermore, optical transmission systems face various security risks at the physical level. We propose a novel key distribution scheme based on signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) measurements to extract the fingerprint of the fiber channel and improve the physical level of security. The SNR varies with time because the fiber channel is affected by many physical characteristics, such as dispersion, polarization, scattering, and amplifier noise. The extracted SNR of the optical fiber channel can be used as the basis of key generation. Alice and Bob can obtain channel characteristics by measuring the SNR of the optical fiber channel and generate the consistent key by quantization coding. The security and consistency of the key are guaranteed by the randomness and reciprocity of the channel. The simulation results show that the key generation rate (KGR) can reach 25 kbps, the key consistency rate (KCR) can reach 98% after key post-processing, and the error probability of Eve’s key is ~50%. In the proposed scheme, the equipment used is simple and compatible with existing optic fiber links.
New Insights of Potassium Sources Impacts as Foliar Application on ‘Canino’ Apricot Fruit Yield, Fruit Anatomy, Quality and Storability
Authors: Okba Sameh K. , Mazrou Yasser , Elmenofy Hayam M. , Ezzat Ahmed , Salama Abdel-Moety
Published: June 2021

This is the first report to study the impacts of potassium sources on apricot fruit yield, quality and storability as a preharvest foliar application. Five sources of potassium (K-humate, K-sulphate, K-nitrate, K-silicate and K-citrate), plus water as a control treatment, were applied individually at 0.2% three times on ‘Canino’ apricot over the 2019 and 2020 seasons. The results showed that all potassium salts, applied foliarly, have potential to improve yield, fruit color, and some fruit physical attributes, such as: weight, size and firmness, as well as a reduced lipid peroxidation, accompanied by a low fruit malondialdehyde content reflected in a high tolerance during storage. The K-nitrate treatment was more effective in the improvement of fruit yield, preharvest quality parameters and keeping fruit postharvest quality characteristics from sharp decline during cold storage. Concerning fruit anatomy, K-nitrate and K-citrate showed thicker cuticle and epidermal parenchyma cell diameters, while the K-silicate induced the highest cell wall thickness. K-nitrate was the most economical, and could be recommended for apricot growers in the Nubaria region of Egypt.
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors Increase the Embryogenic Potential and Alter the Expression of Embryogenesis-Related and HDAC-Encoding Genes in Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L., cv. Mencía)
Authors: Martínez Óscar , Arjones Verónica , González María Victoria , Rey Manuel
Published: June 2021

The low induction rates of somatic embryogenesis are one of the main limitations in its routine application in the grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.). The use of an induction medium containing histone deacetylase inhibitors (trichostatin A and, mainly, sodium butyrate) resulted in an improvement of the embryogenic responses in grapevine (cv. Mencía) cotyledonary and recently germinated somatic embryos. The relative expression of several grapevine genes related to embryogenic competence or encoding histone deacetylase enzymes was studied in cotyledonary somatic embryos that were cultured in the presence of 0.5 mM sodium butyrate. The results showed a significant overexpression of the BBM and VvSERK2 genes after 24 h of culture, whereas the VvWOX2 gene was underexpressed less in treated versus untreated explants. The results suggest that the inhibitor may trigger a molecular response related to an increase in embryogenic competence and changes in the expression of associated genes. The treatment with sodium butyrate also produced significant variations in the expression of several histone deacetylase enzyme-encoding genes. These results may enhance the possibility of obtaining somatic embryos, reducing the seasonal constraints associated with the use of floral explants in grapevines.
Selective BuChE Inhibitory Activity, Chemical Composition, and Enantiomeric Content of the Essential Oil from Salvia leucantha Cav. Collected in Ecuador
Authors: Villalta Gabriela , Salinas Melissa , Calva James , Bec Nicole , Larroque Christian , Vidari Giovanni , Armijos Chabaco
Published: June 2021

The essential oil (EO) of Salvia leucantha Cav. was isolated by steam distillation of the aerial parts collected in the South of Ecuador. Its physical properties were evaluated and the chemical composition of the oil was determined by GC-MS and GC-FID analyses using two chromatographic columns, DB-5ms and HP-INNOWax. Six major compounds were identified, namely, the sesquiterpenes 6.9-guaiadiene (19.14%), (E)-caryophyllene (16.80%), germacrene D (10.22%), (E)-β-farnesene (10.00%), and bicyclogermacrene (7.52%), and the monoterpenoid bornyl acetate (14.74%). Furthermore, four pairs of enantiomers were determined by enantioselective GC-MS of the essential oil. (−)-germacrene D and (+)-α-pinene showed the highest enantiomeric excess (ee%). In an in vitro assay, the essential oil demonstrated an interesting inhibitory activity of the enzyme butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), with an IC50 = 32.60 µg/mL, which is the highest determined for a Salvia species. In contrast, the oil was weakly active against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) with an IC50 > 250 µg/mL.
Cathodic Water Enhances Seedling Emergence and Growth of Controlled Deteriorated Orthodox Seeds
Authors: Fatokun Kayode , Beckett Richard P. , Varghese Boby , Pammenter Norman W.
Published: June 2021

All orthodox seeds eventually deteriorate during storage, a well-known problem in seed banking. Here we used a greenhouse study to test if priming deteriorated seeds with cathodic water can improve the emergence and subsequent seedling growth of three South African tree species, Bolusanthus speciosus, Combretum erythrophyllum and Erythrina caffra. Other priming solutions investigated were calcium magnesium (CaMg) solution and deionized water. In the present study, seeds were subjected to an artificial deterioration by increasing their water content to 14% and keeping them at 40 °C and 100% RH until they had lost 50% of their germination under laboratory conditions. Fresh and deteriorated seeds were primed with cathodic water, CaMg solution and deionized water, with non-primed fresh and deteriorated seeds as controls. Controlled deterioration significantly reduced total emergence and the biomass and photosynthetic parameters of the resulting seedlings. In one species (Bolusanthus speciosus), priming the deteriorated seeds with cathodic water significantly improved emergence parameters. However, in all species cathodic water significantly improved the total biomasses and other growth parameters of the seedlings derived from deteriorated seeds. Priming with CaMg solution and deionized water had little effect on emergence and while improving the growth of seedlings derived from deteriorated seeds, they were less effective than cathodic water. In fresh seeds, priming with all solutions resulted in small improvements in some parameters. Controlled deterioration of fresh seeds reduced the membrane stability index (MSI) in two of the three species and in all species increased the levels of the lipid oxidation products MDA and 4-HNE. Priming deteriorated seeds with cathodic water increased the MSI and reduced the MDA contents in all species and the 4-HNE content in one species. Other priming solutions were generally less effective in ameliorating oxidative stress. Results suggest that the strong antioxidative properties of cathodic water can explain its ability to ameliorate deterioration. In conclusion, the present study shows that priming with cathodic water is an effective way of invigorating deteriorated orthodox seeds and that it may have considerable potential in orthodox seed conservation.
Chemical Profiling and Biological Evaluation of Nepeta baytopii Extracts and Essential Oil: An Endemic Plant from Turkey
Authors: Zengin Gokhan , Mahomoodally Mohamad Fawzi , Aktumsek Abdurrahman , Jekő József , Cziáky Zoltán , Rodrigues Maria João , Custodio Luisa , Polat Rıdvan , Cakilcioglu Ugur , Ayna Adnan , Gallo Monica , Montesano Domenico , Picot-Allain Carene
Published: June 2021

Nepeta baytopii is a poorly studied, endemic Nepeta species (Lamiaceae) of Turkey. For the first time, the biological activities (antioxidant, enzyme inhibition, and cytotoxicity properties) of the hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, water/methanol, and water extracts and essential oil prepared from N. baytopii aerial parts were assessed. Hydro-methanol (41.25 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g) and water extracts (50.30 mg GAE/g), respectively showed the highest radical scavenging (94.40 and 129.22 mg Trolox equivalent (TE)/g, for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical and 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid radical scavenging assays) and reducing (229.37 and 129.55 mg TE/g, for ferric-reducing antioxidant power and cupric-reducing antioxidant capacity assays) capacities in vitro. An interestingly high inhibition was observed for ethyl acetate extract against butyrylcholinesterase (10.85 mg galantamine equivalent/g). The methanol extract showed high cytotoxicity (31.7%) against HepG2 cells. Caryophyllene oxide was identified in high concentrations in the essential oil (39.3%). Luteolin and apigenin and their derivatives were identified from the methanol and water extracts. The results obtained from this study highlighted that the abundance of highly bioactive compounds from Nepeta baytopii ensures the multiple biological activities of the tested extracts, and this suggests a potential use in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields, and therefore should be investigated further.
In Situ Generation of Green Hybrid Nanofibrillar Polymer-Polymer Composites—A Novel Approach to the Triple Shape Memory Polymer Formation
Authors: Hosseinnezhad Ramin , Vozniak Iurii , Zaïri Fahmi
Published: June 2021

The paper discusses the possibility of using in situ generated hybrid polymer-polymer nanocomposites as polymeric materials with triple shape memory, which, unlike conventional polymer blends with triple shape memory, are characterized by fully separated phase transition temperatures and strongest bonding between the polymer blends phase interfaces which are critical to the shape fixing and recovery. This was demonstrated using the three-component system polylactide/polybutylene adipateterephthalate/cellulose nanofibers (PLA/PBAT/CNFs). The role of in situ generated PBAT nanofibers and CNFs in the formation of efficient physical crosslinks at PLA-PBAT, PLA-CNF and PBAT-CNF interfaces and the effect of CNFs on the PBAT fibrillation and crystallization processes were elucidated. The in situ generated composites showed drastically higher values of strain recovery ratios, strain fixity ratios, faster recovery rate and better mechanical properties compared to the blend.
Effect of Hydroxymethylfurfural and Low-Molecular-Weight Chitosan on Formation of Acrylamide and Hydroxymethylfurfural during Maillard Reaction in Glucose and Asparagine Model Systems
Authors: Lin Hong-Ting Victor , Chan Der-Sheng , Kao Ling-Yu , Sung Wen-Chieh
Published: June 2021

The aim of this research was to investigate the effects of the addition of 0.5% hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and low molecular chitosan on acrylamide and HMF formation in a food model system, which contains 0.5% glucose, asparagine, and HMF within 30 min of heating at 180 °C. At an interval of 10 min, all solutions were evaluated in the following aspects: reducing sugar, asparagine, acrylamide, HMF content, pH, Maillard reaction products, kinematic viscosity, and color. After heating for 10 min, the kinematic viscosity of solutions containing chitosan reduced significantly. The values of the acrylamide, HMF, and absorbance increased at OD294 and OD420 (optical density measured at 294 nm and 420 nm) of solutions. Experimental results showed that low-molecular-weight chitosan might be hydrolyzed into much lower molecular weight, followed by the decrease in kinematic viscosity of the solution at pH lower than 6 and the increase in the formation of acrylamide after heating for 30 min.
Green Synthesis of Copper Nanoparticles Using Cotton
Authors: Pérez-Alvarez Marissa , Cadenas-Pliego Gregorio , Pérez-Camacho Odilia , Comparán-Padilla Víctor E. , Cabello-Alvarado Christian J. , Saucedo-Salazar Esmeralda
Published: June 2021

Copper nanoparticles (CuNP) were obtained by a green synthesis method using cotton textile fibers and water as solvent, avoiding the use of toxic reducing agents. The new synthesis method is environmentally friendly, inexpensive, and can be implemented on a larger scale. This method showed the cellulose capacity as a reducing and stabilizing agent for synthetizing Cellulose–Copper nanoparticles (CCuNP). Nanocomposites based on CCuNP were characterized by XRD, TGA, FTIR and DSC. Functional groups present in the CCuNP were identified by FTIR analysis, and XRD patterns disclosed that nanoparticles correspond to pure metallic Cu°, and their sizes are at a range of 13–35 nm. Results demonstrated that CuNPs produced by the new method were homogeneously distributed on the entire surface of the textile fiber, obtaining CCuNP nanocomposites with different copper wt%. Thus, CuNPs obtained by this method are very stable to oxidation and can be stored for months. Characterization studies disclose that the cellulose crystallinity index (CI) is modified in relation to the reaction conditions, and its chemical structure is destroyed when nanocomposites with high copper contents are synthesized. The formation of CuO nanoparticles was confirmed as a by-product, through UV spectroscopy, in the absorbance range of 300–350 nm.
Cigarette Butt Waste as Material for Phase Inverted Membrane Fabrication Used for Oil/Water Emulsion Separation
Authors: Doyan Aris , Leong Chew Lee , Bilad Muhammad Roil , Kurnia Kiki Adi , Susilawati Susilawati , Prayogi Saiful , Narkkun Thanitporn , Faungnawakij Kajornsak
Published: June 2021

The increasing rate of oil and gas production has contributed to a release of oil/water emulsion or mixtures to the environment, becoming a pressing issue. At the same time, pollution of the toxic cigarette butt has also become a growing concern. This study explored utilization of cigarette butt waste as a source of cellulose acetate-based (CA) polymer to develop a phase inverted membrane for treatment of oil/water emulsion and compare it with commercial polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) and polysulfone (PSF). Results show that the CA-based membrane from waste cigarette butt offers an eco-friendly material without compromising the separation efficiency, with a pore size range suitable for oil/water emulsion filtration with the rejection of >94.0%. The CA membrane poses good structural property similar to the established PVDF and PSF membranes with equally asymmetric morphology. It also poses hydrophilicity properties with a contact angle of 74.5°, lower than both PVDF and PSF membranes. The pore size of CA demonstrates that the CA is within the microfiltration range with a mean flow pore size of 0.17 µm. The developed CA membrane shows a promising oil/water emulsion permeability of 180 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 after five filtration cycles. However, it still suffers a high degree of irreversible fouling (>90.0%), suggesting potential future improvements in terms of membrane fouling management. Overall, this study demonstrates a sustainable approach to addressing oil/water emulsion pollution treated CA membrane from cigarette butt waste.
High-Density Bio-PE and Pozzolan Based Composites: Formulation and Prototype Design for Control of Low Water Flow
Authors: Schiavone Nicola , Verney Vincent , Askanian Haroutioun
Published: June 2021

An eco-friendly solution to produce new material for the material extrusion process is to use quarry waste as filler for biopolymer composites. A quarry waste that is still studied little as a filler for polymer composites is pozzolan. In this study, the optimization of the formulations and processing parameters of composites produced with pozzolan and bio-based polyethylene for 3D printing technology was performed. Furthermore, a precision irrigation system in the form of a drip watering cup was designed, printed, and characterized. The results showed that the presence of the pozzolan acted as a reinforcement for the composite material and improved the cohesion between the layers of the 3D printed objects. Furthermore, the optimization of the process conditions made it possible to print pieces of complex geometry and permeable parts for the control of the water flow rates with an order of magnitude in the range from mL/h to mL/day.