bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure to Veterinary Antibiotics via Food Chain Disrupts Gut Microbiota and Drives Increased Escherichia coli Virulence and Drug Resistance in Young Adults
Authors: Liu Yehao , Wu Yifan , Wu Jie , Li Xin , Yu Lingling , Xie Ke , Zhang Mingyi , Ren Lingling , Ji Yanli , Li Yuhui
Published: September 2022

Exposure to veterinary antibiotics (VAs) and preferred as veterinary antibiotics (PVAs) via the food chain is unavoidable for their extensive use not only for treating bacterial infections, but also for use as growth promoters in livestock and aquaculture. One of the consequences is the disturbance of gut microbiota. However, its impact on the virulence and drug resistance of opportunistic pathogens is still unclear. In this study, a total of 26 antibiotics were detected in the urine of 300 young undergraduates in Anhui Province. We found that excessive intake of milk was positively correlated to high levels of VAs and PVAs. It led to the dysbiosis of gut microbiota characterized by high abundance of Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria. The increase in Proteobacteria was mainly due to a single operational taxonomic unit (OTU) of Escherichia coli (E. coli). We isolated several E. coli strains from participants and compared their drug resistance and virulence using PCR assay and virulence-related assays. We observed that exposure to high levels of VAs and PVAs induced more resistant genes and drove E. coli strain to become more virulent. At last, we conducted transcriptome analysis to investigate the molecular mechanism of virulent and drug-resistant regulators in the highly virulent E. coli strain. We noted that there were multiple pathways involved in the drug resistance and virulence of the highly virulent strain. Our results demonstrated that participants with high-level VAs and PVAs exposure have a disrupted gut microbiota following the appearance of highly drug-resistant and virulent E. coli and, therefore may be at elevated risk for long-term health complications.
Dysregulated Sulfide Metabolism in Multiple Sclerosis: Serum and Vascular Endothelial Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Veerareddy Pooja , Dao Nhi , Yun Jungmi W. , Stokes Karen Y. , Disbrow Elizabeth , Kevil Christopher G. , Cvek Urska , Trutschl Marjan , Kilgore Philip , Ramanathan Murali , Zivadinov Robert , Alexander Jonathan S.
Published: September 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a leading cause of neurodegenerative disability in younger individuals. When diagnosed early, MS can be managed more effectively, stabilizing clinical symptoms and delaying disease progression. The identification of specific serum biomarkers for early-stage MS could facilitate more successful treatment of this condition. Because MS is an inflammatory disease, we assessed changes in enzymes of the endothelial hydrogen sulfide (H2S) pathway in response to inflammatory cytokines. Blotting analysis was conducted to detect Cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), Cystathionine beta synthase (CBS), and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (MST) in human brain microvascular endothelial apical and basolateral microparticles (MPs) and cells following exposure to tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ). CSE was increased in MPs and cells by exposure to TNF-α/IFN-γ; CBS was elevated in apical MPs but not in cells or basolateral MPs; MST was not significantly affected by cytokine exposure. To test how our findings relate to MS patients, we evaluated levels of CSE, CBS, and MST in serum samples from healthy control and MS patients. We found significantly decreased levels of CBS and MST (p = 0.0004, 0.009) in MS serum samples, whereas serum levels of CSE were marginally increased (p = 0.06). These observations support increased CSE and lower CBS and MST expression being associated with the vascular inflammation in MS. These changes in endothelial-derived sulfide enzymes at sites of inflammation in the brain may help to explain sulfide-dependent changes in vascular dysfunction/neuroinflammation underlying MS. These findings further support the use of serum samples to assess enzymatic biomarkers derived from circulating MPs. For example, “liquid biopsy” can be an important tool for allowing early diagnosis of MS, prior to the advanced progression of neurodegeneration associated with this disease.
From Snake Venoms to Therapeutics: A Focus on Natriuretic Peptides
Authors: Ang Wei Fong , Koh Cho Yeow , Kini R. Manjunatha
Published: September 2022

Snake venom is a cocktail of multifunctional biomolecules that has evolved with the purpose of capturing prey and for defense. These biomolecules are classified into different classes based on their functions. They include three-finger toxins, natriuretic peptides, phospholipases and metalloproteinases. The focus for this review is on the natriuretic peptide (NP), which is an active component that can be isolated from the venoms of vipers and mambas. In these venoms, NPs contribute to the lowering of blood pressure, causing a rapid loss of consciousness in the prey such that its mobility is reduced, paralyzing the prey, and often death follows. Over the past 30 years since the discovery of the first NP in the venom of the green mamba, venom NPs have shown potential in the development of drug therapy for heart failure. Venom NPs have long half-lives, different pharmacological profiles, and may also possess different functions in comparison to the mammalian NPs. Understanding their mechanisms of action provides the strategies needed to develop new NPs for treatment of heart failure. This review summarizes the venom NPs that have been identified over the years and how they can be useful in drug development.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Two Long-Acting SSTR2 Antagonists for Radionuclide Therapy of Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Koustoulidou Sofia , Handula Maryana , de Ridder Corrina , Stuurman Debra , Beekman Savanne , de Jong Marion , Nonnekens Julie , Seimbille Yann
Published: September 2022

Somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (SSTR2) has become an essential target for radionuclide therapy of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). JR11 was introduced as a promising antagonist peptide to target SSTR2. However, due to its rapid blood clearance, a better pharmacokinetic profile is necessary for more effective treatment. Therefore, two JR11 analogs (8a and 8b), each carrying an albumin binding domain, were designed to prolong the blood residence time of JR11. Both compounds were labeled with lutetium-177 and evaluated via in vitro assays, followed by in vivo SPECT/CT imaging and ex vivo biodistribution studies. [177Lu]Lu-8a and [177Lu]Lu-8b were obtained with high radiochemical purity (>97%) and demonstrated excellent stability in PBS and mouse serum (>95%). [177Lu]Lu-8a showed better affinity towards human albumin compared to [177Lu]Lu-8b. Further, 8a and 8b exhibited binding affinities 30- and 48-fold lower, respectively, than that of the parent peptide JR11, along with high cell uptake and low internalization rate. SPECT/CT imaging verified high tumor accumulation for [177Lu]Lu-8a and [177Lu]Lu-JR11 at 4, 24, 48, and 72 h post-injection, but no tumor uptake was observed for [177Lu]Lu-8b. Ex vivo biodistribution studies revealed high and increasing tumor uptake for [177Lu]Lu-8a. However, its extended blood circulation led to an unfavorable biodistribution profile for radionuclide therapy.
LC–MS/MS Phytochemical Profiling, Antioxidant Activity, and Cytotoxicity of the Ethanolic Extract of Atriplex halimus L. against Breast Cancer Cell Lines: Computational Studies and Experimental Validation
Authors: Elbouzidi Amine , Ouassou Hayat , Aherkou Marouane , Kharchoufa Loubna , Meskali Nada , Baraich Abdellah , Mechchate Hamza , Bouhrim Mohamed , Idir Abderrazak , Hano Christophe , Zrouri Hassan , Addi Mohamed
Published: September 2022

Atriplex halimus L., also known as Mediterranean saltbush, and locally as “Lgtef”, an halophytic shrub, is used extensively to treat a wide variety of ailments in Morocco. The present study was undertaken to determine the antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity of the ethanolic extract of A. halimus leaves (AHEE). We first determined the phytochemical composition of AHEE using a liquid chromatography (LC)–tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) technique. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using different methods including DPPH scavenging capacity, β-carotene bleaching assay, ABTS scavenging, iron chelation, and the total antioxidant capacity assays. Cytotoxicity was investigated against human cancer breast cells lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. The results showed that the components of the extract are composed of phenolic acids and flavonoids. The DPPH test showed strong scavenging capacity for the leaf extract (IC50 of 0.36 ± 0.05 mg/mL) in comparison to ascorbic acid (IC50 of 0.19 ± 0.02 mg/mL). The β-carotene test determined an IC50 of 2.91 ± 0.14 mg/mL. The IC50 values of ABTS, iron chelation, and TAC tests were 44.10 ± 2.92 TE µmol/mL, 27.40 ± 1.46 mg/mL, and 124 ± 1.27 µg AAE/mg, respectively. In vitro, the AHE extract showed significant inhibitory activity in all tested tumor cell lines, and the inhibition activity was found in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, computational techniques such as molecular docking and ADMET analysis were used in this work. Moreover, the physicochemical parameters related to the compounds’ pharmacokinetic indicators were evaluated, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity prediction (Pro-Tox II).
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ang-(1-7) Bone-Targeting Conjugate in an Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis Rat Model
Authors: Khajeh pour Sana , Ranjit Arina , Summerill Emma , Aghazadeh-Habashi Ali
Published: September 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition of synovial joints that causes disability and systemic complications. Ang-(1-7), one of the main peptides in the renin-angiotensin (Ang) system (RAS), imposes its protective effects through Mas receptor (MasR) signaling. It has a short half-life, limiting its feasibility as a therapeutic agent. In this study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of Ang-(1-7)’s novel and stable conjugate (Ang. Conj.) by utilizing its affinity for bone through bisphosphonate (BP) moiety in an adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rat model. The rats received subcutaneous injections of vehicle, plain Ang-(1-7), or an equivalent dose of Ang. Conj. The rats’ body weights, paws, and joints’ diameters were measured thrice weekly. After 14 days, the rats were euthanized, and the blood and tissue samples were harvested for further analysis of nitric oxide (NO) and RAS components’ gene and protein expression. The administration of Ang. Conj. reduced body weight loss, joint edema, and serum NO. Moreover, the Ang. Conj. treatment significantly reduced the classical arm components at peptide, enzyme, and receptor levels while augmenting them for the protective arm. The results of this study introduce a novel class of bone-targeting natural peptides for RA caused by an inflammation-induced imbalance in the activated RAS. Our results indicate that extending the half-life of Ang-(1-7) augments the RAS protective arm and exerts enhanced therapeutic effects in the AIA model in rats.
Complexation: An Interesting Pathway for Combining Two APIs at the Solid State
Authors: Leng Fucheng , Shemchuk Oleksii , Robeyns Koen , Leyssens Tom
Published: September 2022

Combining different drugs into a single crystal form is one of the current challenges in crystal engineering, with the number of reported multi-drug solid forms remaining limited. This paper builds upon an efficient approach to combining Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) containing carboxylic groups in their structure with APIs containing pyridine moieties. By transforming the former into their zinc salts, they can be successfully combined with the pyridine-containing APIs. This work highlights the successfulness of this approach, as well as the improvement in the physical properties of the obtained solid forms.
Biodegradation of HA and β-TCP Ceramics Regulated by T-Cells
Authors: Zhao Zifan , Zhang Jing , Yang Zaibo , Zhao Qin
Published: September 2022

Biodegradability is one of the most important properties of implantable bone biomaterials, which is directly related to material bioactivity and the osteogenic effect. How foreign body giant cells (FBGC) involved in the biodegradation of bone biomaterials are regulated by the immune system is poorly understood. Hence, this study found that β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) induced more FBGCs formation in the microenvironment (p = 0.0061) accompanied by more TNFα (p = 0.0014), IFNγ (p = 0.0024), and T-cells (p = 0.0029) than hydroxyapatite (HA), resulting in better biodegradability. The final use of T-cell depletion in mice confirmed that T-cell-mediated immune responses play a decisive role in the formation of FBGCs and promote bioceramic biodegradation. This study reveals the biological mechanism of in vivo biodegradation of implantable bone tissue engineering materials from the perspective of material-immune system interaction, which complements the mechanism of T-cells’ adaptive immunity in bone immune regulation and can be used as a theoretical basis for rational optimization of implantable material properties.
Modern Approaches for the Treatment of Heart Failure: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
Authors: Popa Irene Paula , Haba Mihai Ștefan Cristian , Mărănducă Minela Aida , Tănase Daniela Maria , Șerban Dragomir N. , Șerban Lăcrămioara Ionela , Iliescu Radu , Tudorancea Ionuț
Published: September 2022

Heart failure (HF) is a progressively deteriorating medical condition that significantly reduces both the patients’ life expectancy and quality of life. Even though real progress was made in the past decades in the discovery of novel pharmacological treatments for HF, the prevention of premature deaths has only been marginally alleviated. Despite the availability of a plethora of pharmaceutical approaches, proper management of HF is still challenging. Thus, a myriad of experimental and clinical studies focusing on the discovery of new and provocative underlying mechanisms of HF physiopathology pave the way for the development of novel HF therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, recent technological advances made possible the development of various interventional techniques and device-based approaches for the treatment of HF. Since many of these modern approaches interfere with various well-known pathological mechanisms in HF, they have a real ability to complement and or increase the efficiency of existing medications and thus improve the prognosis and survival rate of HF patients. Their promising and encouraging results reported to date compel the extension of heart failure treatment beyond the classical view. The aim of this review was to summarize modern approaches, new perspectives, and future directions for the treatment of HF.
Novel 3D-Printed Dressings of Chitosan–Vanillin-Modified Chitosan Blends Loaded with Fluticasone Propionate for Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Michailidou Georgia , Bikiaris Dimitrios N.
Published: September 2022

In the present study, the blends of CS and Vanillin–CS derivative (VACS) were utilized for the preparation of printable inks for their application in three-dimensional (3D) printing procedures. Despite the synergic interaction between the blends, the addition of ι-carrageenan (iCR) as a thickening agent was mandatory. Their viscosity analysis was conducted for the evaluation of the optimum CS/VACS ratio. The shear thinning behavior along with the effect of the temperature on viscosity values were evident. Further characterization of the 3D-printed structures was conducted. The effect of the CS/VACS ratio was established through swelling and contact angle measurements. An increasing amount of VACS resulted in lower swelling ability along with higher hydrophobicity. Fluticasone propionate (FLU), a crystalline synthetic corticosteroid, was loaded into the CS/VACS samples. The drug was loaded in its amorphous state, and consequently, its in vitro release was significantly enhanced. An initial burst release, followed by a sustained release profile, was observed.
Stability Study of Alpinia galanga Constituents and Investigation of Their Membrane Permeability by ChemGPS-NP and the Parallel Artificial Membrane Permeability Assay
Authors: Simon Alexandra , Nghiem Kim Szofi , Gampe Nóra , Garádi Zsófia , Boldizsár Imre , Backlund Anders , Darcsi András , Nedves Andrea Nagyné , Riethmüller Eszter
Published: September 2022

Alpinia galanga Willd., greater galangal, has been used for thousands of years as a spice as well as in traditional medicine. Its central nervous system (CNS) stimulant activity and neuroprotective effects have been proved both in animal models and human trials. However, the compounds responsible for these effects have not been identified yet. Therefore, the main constituents (p-OH-benzaldehyde (1), trans-p-coumaryl-alcohol (2), p-coumaryl-aldehyde (4), galanganol A (5), galanganol B (6), trans-p-acetoxycinnamyl alcohol (7), 1′S-1′-acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA, 9), and 1′S-1′-acetoxyeugenol acetate (AEA, 10)) were isolated to investigate their aqueous stability and passive diffusion across the gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) membrane and the blood–brain barrier (BBB) by the parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA). Our positive results for compounds 1, 2, 4, 7, 9, and 10 suggest good permeability, thus potential contribution to the effects of greater galangal in the CNS. The results of the PAMPA-BBB were corroborated by in silico chemography-based ChemGPS-NP framework experiments. In addition, examination of the chemical space position of galangal compounds in relation to known psychostimulants revealed that all the molecules in proximity are NET/SERT inhibitors. As ACA and AEA did not show much proximity to either compound, the importance of further investigation of their degradation products becomes more pronounced.
Mass-Resolved Momentum Imaging of Three Dichloroethylene Isomers by Femtosecond Laser-Induced Coulomb Explosion
Authors: Wada Yoriko , Akagi Hiroshi , Kumada Takayuki , Itakura Ryuji , Wakabayashi Tomonari
Published: September 2022

Coulomb explosion experiments using linearly polarized intense 60 fs laser pulses were conducted for structural characterization of three dichloroethylene (DCE) isomers, 1,1-DCE, cis-1,2-DCE, and trans-1,2-DCE. Under relatively low laser intensity at 1.8 × 1014 W/cm2, mass-resolved momentum imaging (MRMI) for selected fragment ions of 35Cl+ and C2+ revealed different patterns for the three isomers. The C2+ ion fragmented from multiply charged trans-1,2-DCE was forced to leave perpendicularly to the direction of the laser polarization, due to recoil forces from adjacent cations. In contrast, the fast ions of C2+ from cis-1,2-DCE exhibited an isotropic distribution, whereas the fast ions of C2+ from 1,1-DCE recoiled along the laser polarization together with the slow C2+ ions, and thereby distinction of the three isomers was demonstrated. Coulomb explosion occurs predominantly at specific orientation, which is useful for potential applications of MRMI analysis to molecular structure assays.
Sub-5 nm AFM Tip Characterizer Based on Multilayer Deposition Technology
Authors: Wu Ziruo , Xiong Yingfan , Lei Lihua , Tan Wen , Tang Zhaohui , Deng Xiao , Cheng Xinbin , Li Tongbao
Published: September 2022

Atomic force microscope (AFM) is commonly used for three-dimensional characterization of the surface morphology of structures at nanoscale, but the “Inflation effect” of the tip is an important factor affecting the accuracy. A tip characterizer has the advantages of in situ measurement, higher accuracy of probe inversion results, and relatively simple fabrication process. In this paper, we developed a rectangular tip characterizer based on multilayer film deposition technology with protruding critical dimension parts and grooves parts. And the tip characterization is highly consistent across the line widths and grooves, and still performs well even in the sub-5 nm line width tip characterizer. This indicates that tip characterizers produced by this method can synergistically meet the combined requirements of standard rectangular structure, very small line edge roughness, very small geometry dimension, and traceable measurements.
Study of the Antioxidant Properties of Filipendula ulmaria and Alnus glutinosa
Authors: Sukhikh Stanislav , Ivanova Svetlana , Skrypnik Liubov , Bakhtiyarova Alina , Larina Viktoria , Krol Olesia , Prosekov Alexander , Frolov Andrej , Povydysh Maria , Babich Olga
Published: September 2022

The demographic situation of the last few decades is characterized by the increased numbers of elderly and senile people, i.e., by the aging of the population. In humans, ageing is closely associated with the enhanced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), development of systemic inflammation and related vascular atherosclerotic alterations and metabolic disorders, like obesity, diabetes mellitus and neurodegenerative diseases. As these age-related alterations are directly associated with up-regulation of ROS production and development of chronic oxidative stress, their onset can be essentially delayed by continuous daily consumption of dietary antioxidants—natural products of plant origin. Such antioxidants (in the form of plant extracts, biologically active complexes or individual compounds) can be supplemented to functional foods, i.e., dietary supplementations for daily diet aiming prolongation of active life and delay of the senescence onset. Thereby, use of widely spread medicinal plants might essentially improve cost efficiency of this strategy and availability of antioxidant-rich functional foods. Therefore, here we addressed, to the best of our knowledge for the first time, the antioxidant activity of the extracts prepared from the aerial parts of Filipendula ulmaria and Alnus glutinosa growing in the Kaliningrad region of Russia, and assessed the contents of the biologically active substances underlying these properties. It was found that the extract prepared with the leaves of Filipendula ulmaria and female catkins of Alnus glutinosa demonstrated high antioxidant activity, although the former plant was featured with a higher antioxidant potential. The highest antioxidant activity detected in the methanol extracts of Alnus glutinosa reached 1094.02 ± 14.53 µmol TE/g, radical scavenging of activity was 584.45 ± 35.3 µmol TE/g, reducing capacity at interaction with iron complex—471.63 ± 7.06 µmol TE/g. For the methanol extracts of Filipendula ulmaria the antioxidant activity reached 759.78 ± 19.08 µmol TE/g, antioxidant activity for free radical removal was 451.08 ± 24.45 µmol TE/g and antioxidant activity for restorative ability with iron complex was 332.28 ± 10.93 µmol TE/g. These values are consistent with the total yields of the extracts and their content of ellagic acid. The ethyl acetate extracts of the both plants showed just minimal antioxidant activity. Thus, the considered extracts have an essential potential. This creates good prospects for the further use of herbal extracts of Filipendula ulmaria and Alnus glutinosa as a source of natural antioxidants.
Rhizobacteria Mitigate the Negative Effect of Aluminum on Pea Growth by Immobilizing the Toxicant and Modulating Root Exudation
Authors: Belimov Andrey A. , Shaposhnikov Alexander I. , Azarova Tatiana S. , Syrova Darya S. , Kitaeva Anna B. , Ulyanich Pavel S. , Yuzikhin Oleg S. , Sekste Edgar A. , Safronova Vera I. , Vishnyakova Margarita A. , Tsyganov Viktor E. , Tikhonovich Igor I.
Published: September 2022

High soil acidity is one of the main unfavorable soil factors that inhibit the growth and mineral nutrition of plants. This is largely due to the toxicity of aluminum (Al), the mobility of which increases significantly in acidic soils. Symbiotic microorganisms have a wide range of beneficial properties for plants, protecting them against abiotic stress factors. This report describes the mechanisms of positive effects of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria Pseudomonas fluorescens SPB2137 on four pea (Pisum sativum L.) genotypes grown in hydroponics and treated with 80 µM AlCl3. In batch culture, the bacteria produced auxins, possessed 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase activity, alkalized the medium and immobilized Al, forming biofilm-like structures and insoluble phosphates. Inoculation with Ps. fluorescens SPB2137 increased root and/or shoot biomass of Al-treated plants. The bacteria alkalized the nutrient solution and transferred Al from the solution to the residue, which contained phosphorus that was exuded by roots. As a result, the Al concentration in roots decreased, while the amount of precipitated Al correlated negatively with its concentration in the solution, positively with the solution pH and negatively with Al concentration in roots and shoots. Treatment with Al induced root exudation of organic acids, amino acids and sugars. The bacteria modulated root exudation via utilization and/or stimulation processes. The effects of Al and bacteria on plants varied depending on pea genotype, but all the effects had a positive direction and the variability was mostly quantitative. Thus, Ps. fluorescens SPB2137 improved the Al tolerance of pea due to immobilization and exclusion of toxicants from the root zone.
Prediction of Nitrogen Dosage in ‘Alicante Bouschet’ Vineyards with Machine Learning Models
Authors: Brunetto Gustavo , Stefanello Lincon Oliveira , Kulmann Matheus Severo de Souza , Tassinari Adriele , Souza Rodrigo Otavio Schneider de , Rozane Danilo Eduardo , Tiecher Tadeu Luis , Ceretta Carlos Alberto , Ferreira Paulo Ademar Avelar , Siqueira Gustavo Nogara de , Parent Léon Étienne
Published: September 2022

Vineyard soils normally do not provide the amount of nitrogen (N) necessary for red wine production. Traditionally, the N concentration in leaves guides the N fertilization of vineyards to reach high grape yields and chemical composition under the ceteris paribus assumption. Moreover, the carryover effects of nutrients and carbohydrates stored by perennials such as grapevines are neglected. Where a well-documented database is assembled, machine learning (ML) methods can account for key site-specific features and carryover effects, impacting the performance of grapevines. The aim of this study was to predict, using ML tools, N management from local features to reach high berry yield and quality in ‘Alicante Bouschet’ vineyards. The 5-year (2015–2019) fertilizer trial comprised six N doses (0–20–40–60–80–100 kg N ha−1) and three regimes of irrigation. Model features included N dosage, climatic indices, foliar N application, and stem diameter of the preceding season, all of which were indices of the carryover effects. Accuracy of ML models was the highest with a yield cutoff of 14 t ha−1 and a total anthocyanin content (TAC) of 3900 mg L−1. Regression models were more accurate for total soluble solids (TSS), total titratable acidity (TTA), pH, TAC, and total phenolic content (TPC) in the marketable grape yield. The tissue N ranges differed between high marketable yield and TAC, indicating a trade-off about 24 g N kg−1 in the diagnostic leaf. The N dosage predicted varied from 0 to 40 kg N ha−1 depending on target variable, this was calculated from local features and carryover effects but excluded climatic indices. The dataset can increase in size and diversity with the collaboration of growers, which can help to cross over the numerous combinations of features found in vineyards. This research contributes to the rational use of N fertilizers, but with the guarantee that obtaining high productivity must be with adequate composition.
Comparative Metabolomics Analysis of Stigmas and Petals in Chinese Saffron (Crocus sativus) by Widely Targeted Metabolomics
Authors: Zhou Lin , Cai Youming , Yang Liuyan , Zou Zhongwei , Zhu Jiao , Zhang Yongchun
Published: September 2022

The dried stigmas of Crocus sativus, commonly known as saffron, are consumed largely worldwide because it is highly valuable in foods and has biological activities beneficial for health. Saffron has important economic and medicinal value, and thus, its planting area and global production are increasing. Petals, which are a by-product of the stigmas, have not been fully utilized at present. We compared the metabolites between the stigmas and petals of C. sativus using a non-targeted metabolomics method. In total, over 800 metabolites were detected and categorized into 35 classes, including alkaloids, flavonoids, amino acids and derivatives, phenols and phenol esters, phenylpropanoids, fatty acyls, steroids and steroid derivatives, vitamins, and other metabolites. The metabolite composition in the petals and stigmas was basically similar. The results of the study showed that the petals contained flavonoids, alkaloids, coumarins, and other medicinal components, as well as amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, and other nutritional components. A principal components analysis (PCA) and an orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were performed to screen the different metabolic components. A total of 339 differential metabolites were identified, with 55 metabolites up-regulated and 284 down-regulated. The up-regulated metabolites, including rutin, delphinidin-3-O-glucoside, isoquercitrin, syringaresinol-di-O-glucoside, dihydrorobinetin, quercetin, and gallocatechin, were detected in the petals. The down-regulated metabolites were mainly glucofrangulin B, acetovanillone, daidzein, guaiazulene, hypaphorine, indolin-2-one, and pseudouridine. KEGG annotation and enrichment analyses of the differential metabolites revealed that flavonoid biosynthesis, amino acids biosynthesis, and arginine and proline metabolism were the main differentially regulated pathways. In conclusion, the petals of C. sativus are valuable for medicine and foods and have potential utility in multiple areas such as the natural spice, cosmetic, health drink, and natural health product industries.
Do Different Tree-Ring Proxies Contain Different Temperature Signals? A Case Study of Norway Spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst) in the Eastern Carpathians
Authors: Popa Andrei , Popa Ionel , Roibu Cătălin-Constantin , Badea Ovidiu Nicolae
Published: September 2022

One of the most important proxy archives for past climate variation is tree rings. Tree-ring parameters offer valuable knowledge regarding how trees respond and adapt to environmental changes. Trees encode all environmental changes in different tree-ring parameters. In this study, we analyzed how air temperature is encoded in different Norway spruce tree-ring proxies along an altitude gradient in an intramountain valley of the Carpathians. The study area, in the Gheorgheni region, Romania (Eastern Carpathians), has a mountain climate with a frequent temperature inversion in winter. The climate–growth relationship was analyzed for two contrasting altitudes: low elevation, i.e., below 1000 m a.s.l., and high elevation, i.e., above 1500 m a.s.l. Two local weather stations, one in the valley and the other on the upper part of the mountains, provide daily temperatures (Joseni—750 m a.s.l. and Bucin—1282 m a.s.l.). The bootstrap Pearson correlation between cumulative daily temperature data and three tree-ring proxies (tree-ring width—TRW, basal area increment—BAI, and blue intensity—BI) was computed for each series. The results show that elevation modulates the climate response pattern in the case of BI, and remains relatively similar for TRW and BAI. The winter temperature’s positive influence on spruce growth was observed in both TRW and BAI chronologies. Additionally, the BAI chronology highlights a positive relationship with summer temperature. The highest correlation coefficient (r = 0.551, p < 0.05, n = 41) was recorded between BI residual chronology from high elevation series and summer/autumn temperature from the upper-part weather station for a cumulative period of 59 days (the second half of August to the beginning of October). Our results show that, for this intramountain valley of the Eastern Carpathians, different tree-ring proxies capture different climate signals.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus of Plants Associated with Arbuscular and Ectomycorrhizas Are Differentially Influenced by Drought
Authors: Jing Manman , Shi Zhaoyong , Zhang Mengge , Zhang Menghan , Wang Xiaohui
Published: September 2022

Leaf nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are the most important functional traits in plants which affect biogeochemical cycles. As the most widely observed plant–fungus mutualistic symbiosis, mycorrhiza plays a vital role in regulating plant growth. There are different types of mycorrhiza with various ecological functions in nature. Drought, as a frequent environmental stress, has been paid more and more attention due to its influence on plant growth. Numerous studies have confirmed that drought affects the concentration of N and P in plants, but few studies involve different mycorrhizal types of plants. In this study, the differences of N and P between arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) and ectomycorrhizal (ECM) plants under different drought patterns, drought duration and cultivation conditions were explored based on a dataset by a meta-analysis. Drought stress (DS) showed negative effects on AM plant N (−7.15%) and AM plant P (−13.87%), and a positive effect on AM plant N:P ratio (+8.01%). Drought significantly increased N and the N:P ratio of ECM plants by 1.58% and 3.58%, respectively, and decreased P of ECM plants by −2.00%. Short-term drought (<30 d) reduces more N and P than long-term drought (<30 d) in AM plant species. The duration of drought did not change the N concentration of ECM plant N, while short-term drought reduced ECM plant P. The effects of N and P on DS also varied with different planting conditions and functional groups between AM and ECM plants. Therefore, mycorrhizal effects and stoichiometry of N and P play a key role in plant response to drought. So mycorrhizal effects should be considered when studying plant responses to drought stress.
Electrospinning Silk Fibroin/Graphene Nanofiber Membrane Used for 3D Wearable Pressure Sensor
Authors: Liu Zulan , Wang Jiaxuan , Zhang Qian , Li Zheng , Li Zhi , Cheng Lan , Dai Fangyin
Published: September 2022

With the improvement of science and technology, flexible sensors have become a hot research topic. Flexible sensors have broad application in human health detection and motion detection and other fields. In this paper, the silk fibroin/graphene nanofiber membranes were prepared by double needle electrospinning. In addition, the high sensitivity of the three-dimensional composite hierarchy was obtained by superimposing a monolayer silk fibroin/graphene nanofiber membrane, which was prepared via double needle electrospinning. In addition, the three-dimensional hierarchy was encapsulated by polydimethylsiloxane to prepare a pressure sensor. The sensitivity of the pressure sensor can achieve 7.7 Pa−1. In addition, this pressure sensor has excellent durability (>2000 cycles) and shorter response times (490 ms), which has broad research prospects in human health detection and motion detection.
Development of Electrically Conductive Thermosetting Resin Composites through Optimizing the Thermal Doping of Polyaniline and Radical Polymerization Temperature
Authors: Takahashi Kohei , Nagura Kazuki , Takamura Masumi , Goto Teruya , Takahashi Tatsuhiro
Published: September 2022

This work developed an electrically conductive thermosetting resin composite that transitioned from a liquid to solid without using solvents in response to an increase in temperature. This material has applications as a matrix for carbon fiber reinforced plastics. The composite comprised polyaniline (PANI) together with dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid (DBSA) as a liquid dopant in addition to a radical polymerization system made of triethylene glycol dimethacrylate with a peroxide initiator. In this system, micron-sized non-conductive PANI particles combined with DBSA were dispersed in the form of conductive nano-sized particles or on the molecular level after doping induced by a temperature increase. The thermal doping temperature was successfully lowered by decreasing the PANI particle size via bead milling. Selection of an appropriate peroxide initiator also allowed the radical polymerization temperature to be adjusted such that doping occurred prior to solidification. Optimization of the thermal doping temperature and the increased radical polymerization temperature provided the material with a high electrical conductivity of 1.45 S/cm.
Innovative Closed-Loop Recyclable Bio-Based Composites from Epoxidized Waste Flour and Recycled Carbon Fibers
Authors: Ferrari Francesca , Carallo Gloria Anna , Greco Antonio
Published: September 2022

Epoxy-based composites are designed for long-lasting applications, though their wide use is in contrast with their poor recyclability, which poses serious end-of-life issues. In order to reduce their environmental impact, precursors derived from fossil fuel based raw materials should be replaced with eco-friendly sources. This can be attained by using naturally derived epoxy matrices, or by finding a suitable solution for recycling at the end of life. In this paper, both strategies were analyzed, by replacing traditional monomers with epoxidized waste flour (EWF), an innovative bio-precursor derived from the organic waste stream, and a cleavable hardener, which allowed the recyclability of the matrix. The recyclable matrix was reinforced with recycled carbon fibers, derived from pyrolysis. DSC measurements were carried out in order to optimize the curing steps of the matrix, then flexural tests were performed in order to evaluate the mechanical response of the composite. A green recycling procedure was then investigated, which involved the use of non-toxic solvents and mild working conditions, and allowed recovery of the matrix while still preserving the properties of the carbon fibers. The components obtained after recycling were analyzed by FTIR analysis, which revealed the presence of the epoxy ring on the recycled waste flour. Hence, recycled waste flour was again used as a precursor and mixed with the cleavable hardener, thus, obtaining a closed-loop recycling.
Preparation and Optimization of Ibrutinib-Loaded Nanoliposomes Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Ashar Fareeaa , Hani Umme , Osmani Riyaz Ali M. , Kazim Syed Mohammed , Selvamuthukumar S.
Published: September 2022

The main aim of this study was to optimize the formulation and process variables for the preparation of ibrutinib nanoliposomes and to evaluate the stability of nanoliposomes. The influence of four formulations and process parameters, namely, the phosphatidylcholine-to-cholesterol ratio (A), conc. of ibrutinib (B), sonication time (C), and stirring time (D) on the drug encapsulation efficiency (Y1) and particle size (Y2) of ibrutinib nanoliposomes were investigated by using response surface methodology. Reverse-phase evaporation was used to prepare ibrutinib nanoliposomes. Twenty-nine trial experiments were performed as per the design and the response parameters were noted. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess each response parameter. The effect of each factor on the response parameters was depicted using perturbation, response surface, and contour plots. A numerical optimization technique was used to estimate the optimum process parameters to obtain the desired responses. Ibrutinib nanoliposomes prepared under optimal conditions were evaluated for stability at a different temperature, pH, and sonication time. It is evident from the results that the phosphatidylcholine-to-cholesterol ratio (A) was the major factor influencing the encapsulation efficiency. All the factors were found to have noteworthy influences on particle size. A statistical evaluation provided the information about the individual and interactive effects of independent factors on the response parameters in order to obtain optimum experimental conditions that lead to preparing nanoliposomes with improved characteristics. The optimum level of the independent variables was phosphatidylcholine:cholesterol (6.76:1), ibrutinib concentration (2 mg/mL), sonication time (15.13 min), and stirring time (45 min). At optimal conditions, Y1 and Y2 were found to be 90.76 ± 1.56% and 208.24 ± 3.16 nm, respectively. The ibrutinib nanoliposomes were found to be stable both in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids at 37 °C for 6 h. At elevated conditions of temperature and pH, the prepared nanoliposomes were found to be unstable. Sonication for shorter periods resulted in decreased particle size, whereas longer periods can be helpful for ultrasound-assisted drug delivery. The closeness between the obtained results and predicted results indicates the reliability of the optimization technique for the preparation of ibrutinib nanoliposomes.
On the Response of a Herschel–Bulkley Fluid Due to a Moving Plate
Authors: Konan N’dri Arthur , Rosenbaum Eilis , Massoudi Mehrdad
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we study the boundary-layer flow of a Herschel–Bulkley fluid due to a moving plate; this problem has been experimentally investigated by others, where the fluid was assumed to be Carbopol, which has similar properties to cement. The computational fluid dynamics finite volume method from the open-source toolbox/library OpenFOAM is used on structured quad grids to solve the mass and the linear momentum conservation equations using the solver “overInterDyMFoam” customized with non-Newtonian viscosity libraries. The governing equations are solved numerically by using regularization methods in the context of the overset meshing technique. The results indicate that there is a good comparison between the experimental data and the simulations. The boundary layer thicknesses are predicted within the uncertainties of the measurements. The simulations indicate strong sensitivities to the rheological properties of the fluid.
Properties and Hydrolysis Behavior of Celluloses of Different Origin
Authors: Kashcheyeva Ekaterina I. , Gismatulina Yulia A. , Mironova Galina F. , Gladysheva Evgenia K. , Budaeva Vera V. , Skiba Ekaterina A. , Zolotuhin Vladimir N. , Shavyrkina Nadezhda A. , Kortusov Aleksey N. , Korchagina Anna A.
Published: September 2022

The present paper is a fundamental study on the physicochemical properties and hydrolysis behavior of cellulose samples differing in origin: bacterial, synthetic, and vegetal. Bacterial cellulose was produced by Medusomyces gisevii Sa-12 in an enzymatic hydrolyzate derived from oat-hull pulp. Synthetic cellulose was obtained from an aqueous glucose solution by electropolymerization. Plant-based cellulose was isolated by treatment of Miscanthus sacchariflorus with dilute NaOH and HNO3 solutions. We explored different properties of cellulose samples, such as chemical composition, degree of polymerization (DP), degree of crystallinity (DC), porosity, and reported infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy results. The hydrolysis behavior was most notable dependent on the origin of cellulose. For the bacterial cellulose sample (2010 DP, 90% DC, 89.4% RS yield), the major property affecting the hydrolysis behavior was its unique nanoscale reticulate structure promoting fast penetration of cellulases into the substrate structure. The study on enzymatic hydrolysis showed that the hydrolysis behavior of synthetic and Miscanthus celluloses was most influenced by the substrate properties such as DP, DC and morphological structure. The yield of reducing sugars (RS) by hydrolysis of synthetic cellulose exhibiting a 3140 DP, 80% DC, and highly depolymerization-resistant fibers was 27%. In contrast, the hydrolysis of Miscanthus-derived cellulose with a 1030 DP, 68% DC, and enzyme-accessible fibers provided the highest RS yield of 90%. The other properties examined herein (absence/presence of non-cellulosic impurities, specific surface, pore volume) had no considerable effect on the bioconversion of the cellulosic substrates.
Design and Performance Evaluation of Polymer Matrix Composite Helical Springs
Authors: Chen Ling , Wu Liwei , Fu Hongjun , Tang Youhong
Published: September 2022

Helical springs are indispensable mechanical parts widely used in industry. Lightweight is one of the development trends of helical springs. In this study, three kinds of lightweight polymer matrix composite helical springs (PMCHSs) with unidirectional, multistrand, and wrapped textile structural reinforcement (PMCHS-U, PMCHS-M, and PMCHS-W) were designed, manufactured, and evaluated. The performance of these PMCHSs and the relationship between their performance and their corresponding polymer matrix composite spring wire rods (PMCRs) were studied through the torsion test of the PMCRs and the compression and resilience tests of the PMCHSs. The results showed that the performance of the PMCHSs could be effectively improved by using the wrapped structure as the reinforcement. The compression capacity of PMCHS-W was 72.6% and 137.5% higher than that of PMCHS-M and PMCHS-U, respectively. The resilience performance of the PMCHSs decreased with the increase in the spring constant. The performances of the PMCHSs and a steel spring were compared. The results showed that the spring constant of the steel spring could be achieved when the masses of PMCHS-U, PMCHS-M, and PMCHS-W were only 75%, 63%, and 49% of the mass of the steel spring, respectively. This research is of great significance to the improvement in lightweight spring performance.
Effect of Polycarboxylic Grinding Aid on Cement Chemistry and Properties
Authors: Yang Jianyu , Li Guanglin , Yang Weijun , Guan Junfeng
Published: September 2022

In view of the disadvantages of polycarboxylic acid grinding aids, such as poor reinforcement effect and cumbersome synthesis process, a new type of polycarboxylic acid grinding aid was prepared to meet the requirements of multifunctional admixture for cement concrete. The polycarboxylate grinding aid (PC) was prepared using acrylic acid, sodium allyl sulfonate, and isoprenol polyoxyethylene ether (TPEG) as raw materials, and ammonium persulfate as initiator in the nitrogen atmosphere. The effect of PC and its compound with triethanolamine (TEA) and triisopropanolamine (TIPA) on cement particle size and strength, and hydration process and structures of hydrated products were investigated. Moreover, the grinding mechanism of grinding aids was also proposed. The results indicate that the PC has good performance in both grinding and high-efficiency water-reducing. The average particle diameter of cement was reduced by 3.65 μm when 0.03 wt% of PC was added as grinding aid. Moreover, a high initial fluidity of the cement paste, 290 mm, could be reached when 0.08 wt% of PC was added. The fluidity loss of cement paste after 30 min and 60 min was 265 mm and 260 mm, respectively. After PC compounding with TEA and TIPA, 4.07 μm and 4.7 μm of the average particle size of the cement can be reduced, respectively. Based on the investigations on the hydration rate of cement hydration, the phases, and the microstructures of the hardened slurry, it could be concluded that grinding aids can change the hydration process of cement and improve the morphologies and structures of hydration products without influence on the type of hydrated products. Note that the compounded grinding aids, such as PC with TEA or PC with TIPA, can more effectively enhance the early and late strength of cement. This shows excellent comprehensive performance. In this study, a new type of polycarboxylic acid grinding aid was prepared to meet the requirements of the versatility of cement concrete additives, and to simplify the synthesis process, reduce production costs, improve the grinding effect, and improve the performance of cement concrete.