bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Outcomes of Single Versus Double Plating in Distal-Third Humeral Fractures Caused by Arm Wrestling: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Mao Jui-Ting , Chang Hao-Wei , Lin Tsung-Li , Lin I-Hao , Lin Chia-Yu , Hsu Chin-Jung
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Arm wrestling is a simple and popular activity among young people that causes distal-third humeral fractures. However, injury to the young population may cause economic loss; therefore, they need to return to work as soon as possible. Accordingly, we aimed to compare radiological and functional outcomes of distal-third humeral fractures caused by arm wrestling treated with double and single plating. Materials and Methods: Thirty-four patients with distal-third humeral fractures caused by arm wrestling were treated between January 2015 and January 2021. They were separated into double- and single-plating groups and treated using a triceps-sparing approach. Regular follow-up was performed to evaluate elbow functionality, range of motion, bone union, and complications; the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was used for functional assessment. Results: Patients treated with single plating exhibited union rate, union time, and elbow range of motion similar to those of patients treated with double plating; however, they exhibited better pain and functional outcomes (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score) at 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively (84.50 ± 5.01 vs. 61.70 ± 12.53 at 2 weeks, 96.20 ± 2.63 vs. 84.25 ± 14.56 at 1 month, and 100.00 vs. 94.76 ± 9.71 at 3 months, p < 0.05). The two groups exhibited no significant differences after 1 year (100.00 vs. 98.54 ± 3.99, p < 0.13). The overall complication rate was significantly higher in patients treated with double plating than in those treated with single plating (18.75% vs. 5.56%). Radial nerve palsy was observed in patients in both groups. Conclusions: In patients with distal-third humeral fractures caused by arm wrestling, single plating provides a union rate and elbow range of motion similar to those of double plating, with significantly fewer complications and lower surgical time and blood loss with improved early functional outcomes.
Antibacterial Capability of MXene (Ti3C2Tx) to Produce PLA Active Contact Surfaces for Food Packaging Applications
Authors: Santos Xiomara , Álvarez Marcos , Videira-Quintela Diogo , Mediero Aranzazu , Rodríguez Juana , Guillén Francisco , Pozuelo Javier , Martín Olga
Published: November 2022

The globalization of the market and the increase of the global population that requires a higher demand of food products superimposes a big challenge to ensure food safety. In this sense, a common strategy to extend the shelf life and save life of food products is by avoiding bacterial contamination. For this, the development of antibacterial contact surfaces is an urgent need to fulfil the above-mentioned strategy. In this work, the role of MXene (Ti3C2Tx) in providing antibacterial contact surfaces was studied through the creation of composite films from polylactic acid (PLA), as the chosen polymeric matrix. The developed PLA/MXene films maintained the thermal and mechanical properties of PLA and also presented the attractive antibacterial properties of MXene. The composites’ behaviour against two representative foodborne bacteria was studied: Listeria mono-cytogenes and Salmonella enterica (representing Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, respectively). The composites prevented bacterial growth, and in the case of Listeria only 0.5 wt.% of MXene was necessary to reach 99.9999% bactericidal activity (six log reductions), while against Salmonella, 5 wt.% was necessary to achieve 99.999% bactericidal activity (five log reductions). Cy-totoxicity tests with fHDF/TER166 cell line showed that none of the obtained materials were cytotoxic. These results make MXene particles promising candidates for their use as additives into a polymeric matrix, useful to fabricate antibacterial contact surfaces that could prove useful for the food packaging industry.
Processing of Metal Waste—Sludge from the Galvanizing Plants
Authors: Drápala Jaromír , Rigoulet Hana , Brožová Silvie , Malcharcziková Jitka , Langová Šárka , Vontorová Jiřina , Nétek Václav , Kubáč Jaroslav , Janáček Dominik
Published: November 2022

This paper deals with the possibility of obtaining zinc from waste galvanic sludge, which is formed during galvanic plating. The aim of the experimental and practical part was to obtain zinc after the leaching of galvanic sludge. Leaching was performed in sulfuric acid, nitric acid and hydrochloric acid at different temperatures and time intervals with the addition of oxidizing agents as hydrogen peroxide or ozone. A separation of the leach and filtrate using filtration followed. The leach was further processed by a precipitation of iron and other metals using various agents. After a further filtration, the electrolysis was performed in order to obtain pure zinc on the cathode at the electrical voltage of approximately 3.5 V. Leaching using a solution of sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide was also performed when the prior dissolving of a major part of zinc into the leach occurred, while iron and non-ferrous metals remained in the leaching residue. After the filtration of the leach, the electrolysis with a high zinc yield of a purity of more than 99% followed. This way seems to be an optimal one for building a semi-industrial line for galvanic sludge recycling. All the partial products, i.e., the leach, the leaching residue, the filtrate, the solid precipitate and the separated metal on the cathode were subjected to chemical analyses. The analyses results are presented in tables and graphs.
Dietary Isoflavone Aglycons from Soy Germ Pasta Improves Reproductive Performance of Aging Hens and Lowers Cholesterol Levels of Egg Yolk
Authors: Setchell Kenneth D. R. , Mourvaki Evangelia , Clerici Carlo , Mattioli Simona , Brecchia Gabriele , Castellini Cesare
Published: November 2022

This study compared dietary isoflavone aglycones with the glycoside conjugates in a novel model of postmenopausal status, the aging domestic hen (Gallus gallus domesticus), to determine the effects on reproductive performance, cholesterol levels, and nutritional quality of eggs laid. Hens, 18 mo old, were randomized into four groups (n = 10/group) and fed for 28 d a conventional poultry corn/soymeal diet (Control), or diets supplemented with isoflavone glycosides from soy germ (diet A), isoflavone aglycons from a soy germ pasta (diet B), or conventional pasta lacking isoflavones (diet C). The egg-laying rate was recorded daily, plasma isoflavones and cholesterol were measured, and the nutritional composition of the eggs was determined. Egg-laying declined over a 4-week period in hens in the Control group and those fed isoflavone glycosides (diets A and C), whereas hens fed isoflavone aglycons (diet B) significantly increased their egg-laying efficiency. The total egg count and egg yield were significantly higher in hens fed isoflavone aglycons, and their plasma cholesterol concentrations were lower and the eggs laid had a 30% lower yolk cholesterol content. None of these effects were observed with diets containing similar levels of isoflavone glycosides. These studies recapitulate the clinical effects of soy germ pasta enriched with isoflavone aglycons and lend support to the greater efficacy of a diet rich in isoflavone aglycons.
The Effects of Postpartum Yak Metabolism on Reproductive System Recovery
Authors: Shu Shi , Fu Changqi , Wang Guowen , Peng Wei
Published: November 2022

The goal of this study was to determine the metabolism of multiparous female yaks during the late perinatal period and identify its effects on reproductive recovery in order to explain the low reproduction rate of yaks. Eight multiparous female yaks were randomly selected as the sample, and serum was collected from the yaks every 7 days from the day of delivery until 28 days after the delivery (five time points). The presence of serum metabolic profiles and reproductive hormones was identified using ELISA. The key metabolites were identified using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, and a dynamic metabolic network representation was created using bioinformatics analysis. A total of 117 different metabolites were identified by calculating the fold change of the metabolite expression at each time point. The dynamic metabolic network was created to represent the activities of the key metabolites, metabolic indexes and reproductive hormones. The initial efficiency of the glucose metabolism in the late perinatal period was found to be low, but it increased during the final period. The initial efficiencies of the lipid and amino acid metabolisms were high but decreased during the final period. We inferred that there was a postpartum negative energy balance in female yaks and that the synthesis and secretion of estrogen were blocked due to an excessive fatty acid mobilization. As a result, the reproductive hormone synthesis and secretion were maintained at a low level in the late perinatal period, and this was the main reason for the delayed recovery of the reproductive function postpartum. However, the specific mechanism needs to be further verified.
Pile-Ups Formation in AFM-Based Nanolithography: Morpho-Mechanical Characterization and Removal Strategies
Authors: Pellegrino Paolo , Farella Isabella , Cascione Mariafrancesca , De Matteis Valeria , Bramanti Alessandro Paolo , Vincenti Lorenzo , Della Torre Antonio , Quaranta Fabio , Rinaldi Rosaria
Published: November 2022

In recent decades, great efforts have been made to develop innovative, effective, and accurate nanofabrication techniques stimulated by the growing demand for nanostructures. Nowadays, mechanical tip-based emerged as the most promising nanolithography technique, allowing the pattern of nanostructures with a sub-nanometer resolution, high reproducibility, and accuracy. Unfortunately, these nanostructures result in contoured pile-ups that could limit their use and future integration into high-tech devices. The removal of pile-ups is still an open challenge. In this perspective, two different AFM-based approaches, i.e., Force Modulation Mode imaging and force-distance curve analysis, were used to characterize the structure of pile-ups at the edges of nanogrooves patterned on PMMA substrate by means of Pulse-Atomic Force Lithography. Our experimental results showed that the material in pile-ups was less stiff than the pristine polymer. Based on this evidence, we have developed an effective strategy to easily remove pile-ups, preserving the shape and the morphology of nanostructures.
Phenol Liquefaction of Waste Sawdust Pretreated by Sodium Hydroxide: Optimization of Parameters Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Lv Shihao , Lin Xiaoli , Gao Zhenzhong , Hou Xianfeng , Zhou Haiyang , Sun Jin
Published: November 2022

In this study, a two-step method was used to realize the liquefaction of waste sawdust under atmospheric pressure, and to achieve a high liquefaction rate. Specifically, waste sawdust was pretreated with NaOH, followed by liquefaction using phenol. The relative optimum condition for alkali–heat pretreatment was a 1:1 mass ratio of NaOH to sawdust at 140 °C. The reaction parameters including the mass ratio of phenol to pretreated sawdust, liquefaction temperature, and liquefaction time were optimized by response surface methodology. The optimal conditions for phenol liquefaction of pretreated sawdust were a 4.21 mass ratio of phenol to sawdust, a liquefaction temperature of 173.58 °C, and a liquefaction time of 2.24 h, resulting in corresponding liquefied residues of 6.35%. The liquefaction rate reached 93.65%. Finally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to analyze untreated waste sawdust, pretreated sawdust, liquefied residues, and liquefied liquid. SEM results showed that the alkali–heat pretreatment and liquefaction reactions destroyed the intact, dense, and homogeneous sample structures. FT-IR results showed that liquefied residues contain aromatic compounds with different substituents, including mainly lignin and its derivatives, while the liquefied liquid contains a large number of aromatic phenolic compounds. XRD showed that alkali–heat pretreatment and phenol liquefaction destroyed most of the crystalline regions, greatly reduced the crystallinity and changed the crystal type of cellulose in the sawdust.
Qualitative Profiling and Quantitative Analysis of Major Constituents in Jinmu-tang by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS and UPLC-TQ-MS/MS
Authors: Jang Seol , Lee Ami , Hwang Youn-Hwan
Published: November 2022

Jinmu-tang (JMT) is a traditional herbal medicine consisting of five herbal medicines: Poria cocos Wolf, Paeonia lactiflora Pallas, Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Atractylodes japonica Koidzumi, and Aconitum carmichaeli Debeaux. In this study, the JMT components were profiled using UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS, and 23 compounds were identified and characterized. In addition, UPLC-TQ-MS/MS analysis was performed in the positive and negative ion modes of an electrospray ionization source for the simultaneous quantification of the identified compounds. The multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) method was established to increase the sensitivity of the quantitative analysis, and the method was verified through linearity, recovery, and precision. All analytes showed good linearity (R2 ≤ 0.9990). Moreover, the recovery and the relative standard deviation of precision were 86.19–114.62% and 0.20–8.00%, respectively. Using the established MRM analysis method, paeoniflorin was found to be the most abundant compound in JMT. In conclusion, these results provide information on the constituents of JMT and can be applied to quality control and evaluation.
Synthesis and Anti-Leishmanial Properties of Quinolones Derived from Zanthosimuline
Authors: Jézéquel Gwenaëlle , Cardoso Laura Nogueira de Faria , Olivon Florent , Dennemont Indira , Apel Cécile , Litaudon Marc , Roussi Fanny , Pomel Sébastien , Desrat Sandy
Published: November 2022

Quinoline derivatives and especially quinolones are considered as privileged structures in medicinal chemistry and are often associated with various biological properties. We recently isolated a series of original monoterpenyl quinolones from the bark of Codiaeum peltatum. As this extract was found to have a significant inhibitory activity against a Leishmania species, we decided to study the anti-leishmanial potential of this type of compound. Leishmaniasis is a serious health problem affecting more than 12 million people in the world. Available drugs cause harmful side effects and resistance for some of them. With the aim of finding anti-leishmanial compounds, we developed a synthetic strategy to access natural quinolones and analogues derived from zanthosimuline. We showed the versatility of this natural compound toward cyclization conditions, leading to various polycyclic quinolone-derived structures. The natural and synthetic compounds were evaluated against amastigote forms of Leishmania infantum. The results obtained confirmed the interest of this family of natural compounds but also revealed promising activities for some intermediates deriving from zanthosimuline. Following the same synthetic strategy, we then prepared 14 new analogues. In this work, we identified two promising molecules with good activities against intramacrophage L. infantum amastigotes without any cytotoxicity. We also showed that slight changes in amide functional groups affect drastically their anti-parasitic activity.
Hydrogels from the Assembly of SAA/Elastin-Inspired Peptides Reveal Non-Canonical Nanotopologies
Authors: Scelsi Alessandra , Bochicchio Brigida , Smith Andrew M. , Laezza Antonio , Saiani Alberto , Pepe Antonietta
Published: November 2022

Peptide-based hydrogels are of great interest in the biomedical field according to their biocompatibility, simple structure and tunable properties via sequence modification. In recent years, multicomponent assembly of peptides have expanded the possibilities to produce more versatile hydrogels, by blending gelating peptides with different type of peptides to add new features. In the present study, the assembly of gelating P5 peptide SFFSF blended with P21 peptide, SFFSFGVPGVGVPGVGSFFSF, an elastin-inspired peptides or, alternatively, with FF dipeptide, was investigated by oscillatory rheology and different microscopy techniques in order to shed light on the nanotopologies formed by the self-assembled peptide mixtures. Our data show that, depending on the added peptides, cooperative or disruptive assembly can be observed giving rise to distinct nanotopologies to which correspond different mechanical properties that could be exploited to fabricate materials with desired properties.
Kinetic Model of Diclofenac Degradation Developed Using Multivariate Curve Resolution Method
Authors: Rodionova Oxana Ye. , Pomerantsev Alexey L. , Rutledge Douglas N.
Published: November 2022

This study presents the kinetic modeling of the natural long-term aging of the pharmaceutical substance as well as the intact tablets of Diclofenac. Datasets are collections of near-infrared spectra acquired from the intact tablets packed in plastic blisters and the spectra of the pure substance. Fresh samples and samples at different stages of degradation are analyzed. No methods of accelerated aging were applied. Multi-step application of MCR-ALS in its soft version followed by the kinetic modeling of the results helps to propose a generic degradation mechanism; which includes: a global kinetic model; approximations of the NIR spectra of the intermediate and product; rough estimates of rate constants. We study tablets in blister packs; exactly as they are presented in pharmacies; and this is important from a practical point of view.
NMR-Based Approaches in the Study of Foods
Authors: Sobolev Anatoly P. , Ingallina Cinzia , Spano Mattia , Di Matteo Giacomo , Mannina Luisa
Published: November 2022

In this review, the three different NMR-based approaches usually used to study foodstuffs are described, reporting specific examples. The first approach starts with the food of interest that can be investigated using different complementary NMR methodologies to obtain a comprehensive picture of food composition and structure; another approach starts with the specific problem related to a given food (frauds, safety, traceability, geographical and botanical origin, farming methods, food processing, maturation and ageing, etc.) that can be addressed by choosing the most suitable NMR methodology; finally, it is possible to start from a single NMR methodology, developing a broad range of applications to tackle common food-related challenges and different aspects related to foods.
Multi-Bioactivity of Protein Digests and Peptides from Oat (Avena sativa L.) Kernels in the Prevention of the Cardiometabolic Syndrome
Authors: Darewicz Małgorzata , Pliszka Monika , Borawska-Dziadkiewicz Justyna , Minkiewicz Piotr , Iwaniak Anna
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to characterize the digests and peptides derived from oat kernel proteins in terms of their major enzyme inhibitory activities related to the prevention of cardiometabolic syndrome. It also entailed the characteristics of antioxidant bioactivity of the analyzed material. The study was carried out using coupled in silico and in vitro methods. The additional goal was to investigate whether identified peptides can pervade Caco-2 cells. Based on the results of bioinformatic analysis, it was found that the selected oat proteins may be a potential source of 107 peptides with DPP-IV and/or ACE inhibitory and/or antioxidant activity. The duodenal digest of oat kernels revealed multiple activities. It inhibited the activities of the following enzymes: DPP-IV (IC50 = 0.51 vs. 10.82 mg/mL of the intact protein), α-glucosidase (IC50 = 1.55 vs. 25.20 mg/mL), and ACE (IC50 = 0.82 vs. 34.52 mg/mL). The DPPH• scavenging activity was 35.7% vs. 7.93% that of the intact protein. After in silico digestion of oat proteins, 24 peptides were selected for identification using LC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Among them, 13 sequences were successfully identified. One of them, i.e., VW peptide, exhibited triple activities, i.e., DPP-IV and ACE inhibitory and DPPH• scavenging activity. The multifunctional peptides: PW, TF, VF, and VW, were identified in the basolateral samples after transport experiments. Both in silico and in vitro analyses demonstrated that oat kernel proteins were the abundant sources of bioactive digests and peptides to be used in a diet for patients suffering from cardiometabolic syndrome.
Optimization of Extraction Conditions and Cytotoxic Activity of Rapanone in Comparison to Its Homologue, Embelin
Authors: Wróbel-Biedrawa Dagmara , Galanty Agnieszka , Zagrodzki Paweł , Podolak Irma
Published: November 2022

Rapanone is a plant-derived simple alkyl-dihydroxybenzoquinone structurally close to embelin, a well-known cytotoxic agent. The pharmacological characterization of rapanone is still incomplete, and to fill the data gap, a good source for its acquisition is required to conduct further research. This study aimed to optimize the conditions for the extraction of rapanone from the leaves of white-berried Ardisia crenata Sims. For this purpose, three methods were employed: heat reflux (HRE), shaking (SE), and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), and such parameters as the extraction time, solvent, and the number of extractions from the same sample were set as experimental variables. Furthermore, cytotoxic activity toward prostate cancer, thyroid cancer, and colorectal carcinoma cell lines was investigated and compared with doxorubicin and embelin. The most effective and economical method for the extraction of rapanone was shown to be 20 min UAE with ethyl acetate or chloroform. Rapanone exhibited high cytotoxic activity against PC3 (IC50 = 6.50 μg/mL), Du145 (IC50 = 7.68 μg/mL), FTC133 (IC50 = 6.01 μg/mL), 8505C (IC50 = 7.84 μg/mL), and Caco-2 (IC50 = 8.79 μg/mL) cell lines after 24 h and against the HT29 cell line after 48 h (IC50 = 11.67 μg/mL). Furthermore, it revealed a more favorable safety profile than either its homologue, embelin, or doxorubicin. The set of optimal extraction parameters obtained may be utilized for scientific and industrial purposes to achieve the best rapanone yield. Moreover, this benzoquinone revealed a high cytotoxic activity with good selectivity.
Relationship between Nutritional Status, Food Consumption and Sarcopenia in Post-Stroke Rehabilitation: Preliminary Data
Authors: Siotto Mariacristina , Germanotta Marco , Guerrini Alessandro , Pascali Simona , Cipollini Valeria , Cortellini Laura , Ruco Elisabetta , Khazrai Yeganeh Manon , De Gara Laura , Aprile Irene
Published: November 2022

After a stroke, patients can suffer from sarcopenia, which can affect recovery. This could be closely related to an impairment in nutritional status. In this preliminary analysis of a longitudinal prospective study, we screened 110 subjects admitted to our rehabilitation center after a stroke. We then enrolled 61 patients, who underwent a 6-week course of rehabilitation treatment. We identified a group of 18 sarcopenic patients (SG), according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2), by evaluating muscle strength with the handgrip test, and muscle mass with bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). With respect to the non-sarcopenic group (NSG), the SG at admission (T0) had worse muscle quality, according to the BIA-derived phase angle, and a lower score of MNA®-SF. In contrast to the NSG, the SG also exhibited lower values for both BMI and the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) at T0 and T1. Moreover, 33% of the SG had a major risk of nutrition-related complications (GNRI at T0 < 92) and discarded on average more food during the six weeks of rehabilitation (about one-third of the average daily plate waste). Of note is the fact that the Barthel Index’s change from baseline indicated that the SG had a worse functional recovery than the NGS. These results suggest that an accurate diagnosis of sarcopenia, along with a proper evaluation of the nutritional status on admission to rehabilitation centers, appears strictly necessary to design individual, targeted physical and nutritional intervention for post-stroke patients, to improve their ability outcomes.
Do Antioxidant Phytochemicals Play a Role in Neurodegenerative Disorders? The Case of Polyphenols
Authors: Godos Justyna
Published: November 2022

In recent decades, numerous studies provided consistent and convincing evidence that the adoption of healthy plant-based dietary patterns is a valuable strategy to reduce the risk of most non-communicable diseases [...]
Supplementation of Lactobacillus plantarum (TCI227) Prevented Potassium-Oxonate-Induced Hyperuricemia in Rats
Authors: Chien Chih-Yu , Chien Yu-Jou , Lin Yung-Hao , Lin Yung-Hsiang , Chan Shu-Ting , Hu Wei-Chun , Wu Han-Fang , Chiang Chi-Fu , Hsu Chin-Lin
Published: November 2022

Hyperuricemia (HC) is one of the important risk factors for gout, arteriosclerosis, and cardiovascular disease. Animal studies have shown that Lactobacillus plantarum can improve microbiota and immune regulation, as well as inhibit uric acid production. However, it is not clear whether L. plantarum can improve HC and intestinal microbiota. We used potassium oxonate (PO) to induce HC in male SD rats and then treated them with L. plantarum TCI227 in a dose-dependent manner (HC + LD, HC + MD, HC + HD) for 4 weeks. We examined organ weight, conducted biochemical examinations of blood and urine, and analyzed the intestinal microbiota in feces through a 16s rDNA sequence analysis. In this study, TCI227 improved body weight, decreased creatinine and serum uric acid, and increased urine uric acid compared to the HC group. Furthermore, TCI227 increased short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). In the fecal microbiota (family), TCI227 increased the level of Lactobacillaceae and then decreased the levels of Deferribacteres and Prevotellaceae compared to the HC group. Finally, in the fecal microbiota (genus), TCI227 decreased the level of Prevotella and then increased the levels of Lactobacillus and Ruminococcus compared to the HC group. This study suggested that TCI227 can improve HC and can change the composition of intestinal microbiota in PO-induced male HC SD rats.
Mushroom Polysaccharides as Potential Candidates for Alleviating Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Jiang Xue , Li Siqi , Feng Xiangru , Li Lanzhou , Hao Jie , Wang Di , Wang Qingshuang
Published: November 2022

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a widespread and serious global public health burden, particularly among the older population. At present, effective therapies do not exist, despite the increasing understanding of the different mechanisms of NDs. In recent years, some drugs, such as galantamine, entacapone, riluzole, and edaravone, have been proposed for the treatment of different NDs; however, they mainly concentrate on symptom management and confer undesirable side effects and adverse reactions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find novel drugs with fewer disadvantages and higher efficacy for the treatment of NDs. Mushroom polysaccharides are macromolecular complexes with multi-targeting bioactivities, low toxicity, and high safety. Some have been demonstrated to exhibit neuroprotective effects via their antioxidant, anti-amyloidogenic, anti-neuroinflammatory, anticholinesterase, anti-apoptotic, and anti-neurotoxicity activities, which have potential in the treatment of NDs. This review focuses on the different processes involved in ND development and progression, highlighting the neuroprotective activities and potential role of mushroom polysaccharides and summarizing the limitations and future perspectives of mushroom polysaccharides in the prevention and treatment of NDs.
In Silico Evaluation of the Haplotype Diversity, Phylogenetic Variation and Population Structure of Human E. granulosus sensu stricto (G1 Genotype) Sequences
Authors: Selcuk Muhammed Ahmed , Celik Figen , Kesik Harun Kaya , Gunyakti Kilinc Seyma , Ahmed Haroon , Jiang Nan , Simsek Sami , Cao Jianping
Published: November 2022

Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato is the causative agent of cystic echinococcosis (CE), which is a neglected zoonotic disease with an important role in human morbidity. In this study, we aimed to investigate the haplotype diversity, genetic variation, population structure and phylogeny of human E. granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) (G1 genotype) isolates submitted to GenBank from different parts of the world by sequencing the mitochondrial CO1 and ND1 genes. The sequences of the mt-CO1 (401 bp; n = 133) and mt-ND1 (407 bp; n = 140) genes were used to analyze the haplotype, polymorphism and phylogenetic of 273 E. granulosus s.s. (G1 genotype) isolates. Mutations were observed at 31 different points in the mt-CO1 gene sequences and at 100 different points in the mt-ND1 gene sequences. Furthermore, 34 haplotypes of the mt-CO1 sequences and 37 haplotypes of the mt-ND1 sequences were identified. Tajima’s D, Fu’s Fs, and Fu’s LD values showed high negative values in both mt-CO1 and mt-ND1 gene fragments. The haplotype diversities in the sequences retrieved from GenBank in this study indicate that the genetic variation in human isolates of E. granulosus s.s. in western countries is higher than in eastern countries. This may be due to demographic expansions due to animal trades and natural selections.
Self−Assembling Anchorage of Hyaluronic Acid on the Nanoparticle Surface Confers Superiority of Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Li Yingpeng , Liu Liang , Shang Hongtao , Feng Xuchen , Fan Ni , Wang Jingyu , Wu Yuqi , Chen Yatong , Chu Xinhong , Zhong Min , Sun Yujiao , Fu Hui , Huang Wei , Li Yunfei
Published: November 2022

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has been listed as one of the most fatal diseases, and no effective targeting treatment is clinically available. Although CD44-targeting hyaluronic acid (HA) has been utilized as targeting ligands in many studies, no facile ways have been developed through HA self-assembly at the nanoparticle surface. Herein, we reported N-isopropylacrylamide-grafted chitosan-based nanoparticles self-assembling with HA (HA-NPs) through electrostatic forces and loaded with curcumin (CUR). The HA-NPs displayed pH-responsive properties due to the chemical modification of chitosan, and the preparation process was optimized by central composite design–response surface methodology. HA anchorage confers the vehicle with tumor-targeting capability. HA-NPs displayed more robust effects of inhibiting TNBC primary tumor growth than free CUR and a plain counterpart but without increased systemic cytotoxicity. In addition, in vivo pharmacokinetic studies showed that HA-NPs significantly increased the in vivo residence time of free CUR and improved the bioavailability of CUR. These findings suggested that chitosan-based HA-NPs may provide a feasible and unique strategy to achieve CD44 targeting and enhance its efficacy in vivo for the treatment of advanced TNBC.
Processing of Lipid Nanodispersions into Solid Powders by Spray Drying
Authors: Steiner Denise , Schumann Leonie V. , Bunjes Heike
Published: November 2022

Spray drying is a promising technology for drying lipid nanodispersions. These formulations can serve as carrier systems for poorly water-soluble active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that are loaded into the lipid matrix to improve their bioavailability. Once the API-loaded nanocarriers have been further processed into solid dosage forms, they could be administered orally, which is usually preferred by patients. Various solid lipids as well as oils were used in this study to prepare lipid nanodispersions, and it was shown that their nanoparticulate properties could be maintained when lactose in combination with SDS was used as matrix material in the spray-drying process. In addition, for lipid nanoemulsions loaded with fenofibrate, a good redispersibility with particle sizes below 300 nm at a lipid content of 26.8 wt.% in the powders was observed. More detailed investigations on the influence of the drying temperature yielded good results when the inlet temperature of the drying air was set at 110 °C or above, enabling the lactose to form an amorphous matrix around the embedded lipid particles. A tristearin suspension was developed as a probe to measure the temperature exposure of the lipid particles during the drying process. The results with this approach indicate that the actual temperature the particles were exposed to during the drying process could be higher than the outlet temperature.
Profiling Cannabinoid Contents and Expression Levels of Corresponding Biosynthetic Genes in Commercial Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) Cultivars
Authors: Kim Ae Lim , Yun Young Jae , Choi Hyong Woo , Hong Chang-Hee , Shim Hyun Joo , Lee Jeong Hwan , Kim Young-Cheon
Published: November 2022

Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) is widely cultivated and studied for its psychoactive and medicinal properties. As the major cannabinoids are present in acidic forms in Cannabis plants, non-enzymatic processes, such as decarboxylation, are crucial for their conversion to neutral active cannabinoid forms. Herein, we detected the levels of cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabichromene (CBC), and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) in the leaves and vegetative shoots of five commercial Cannabis cultivars using a combination of relatively simple extraction, decarboxylation, and high-performance liquid chromatography analyses. The CBDV, CBC, and Δ9-THC levels were 6.3–114.9, 34.4–187.2, and 57.6–407.4 μg/g, respectively, and the CBD levels were the highest, ranging between 1.2–8.9 μg/g in leaf and vegetative shoot tissues of Cannabis cultivars. Additionally, correlations were observed between cannabinoid accumulation and transcription levels of genes encoding key enzymes for cannabinoid biosynthesis, including CsCBGAS, CsCBDAS, CsCBCAS, and CsTHCAS. These data suggest that the high accumulation of cannabinoids, such as CBC, Δ9-THC, and CBD, might be derived from the transcriptional regulation of CsCBGAS and CsCBDAS in Cannabis plants.
Cytoplasmic Male Sterility Incidence in Potato Breeding Populations with Late Blight Resistance and Identification of Breeding Lines with a Potential Fertility Restorer Mechanism
Authors: Santayana Monica , Aponte Mariela , Kante Moctar , Eyzaguirre Raúl , Gastelo Manuel , Lindqvist-Kreuze Hannele
Published: November 2022

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) in potato is a common reproductive issue in late blight breeding programs since resistant sources usually have a wild cytoplasmic background (W or D). Nevertheless, in each breeding cycle male fertile lines have been observed within D- and T-type cytoplasms, indicating the presence of a fertility restorer (Rf) mechanism. Identifying sources of Rf and complete male sterility to implement a CMS–Rf system in potato is important since hybrid breeding is a feasible breeding strategy for potato. The objective of this study was to identify male fertile breeding lines and potential Rf candidate lines in the CIP late blight breeding pipeline. We characterized male fertility/sterility-related traits on 142 breeding lines of known cytoplasmic type. We found that pollen viability is not a reliable estimate of male sterility in diverse backgrounds. Breeding lines of the T-type cytoplasmic group had higher levels of male fertility than breeding lines of the D-type cytoplasmic group. With the help of pedigree records, reproductive traits evaluations and test crosses with female clones of diverse background, we identified four male parental lines segregating for Rf and three female parental lines that generated 100% male sterile progeny. These identified lines and generated test cross progenies will be valuable to develop validation populations for mitochondrial or nuclear markers for the CMS trait and for dihaploid generation of Rf+ lines that can be later employed in diploid hybrid breeding.
A Multi-Considered Seed Coat Pattern Classification of Allium L. Using Unsupervised Machine Learning
Authors: Ariunzaya Gantulga , Baasanmunkh Shukherdorj , Choi Hyeok Jae , Kavalan Jonathan C. L. , Chung Sungwook
Published: November 2022

The seed coat sculpture is one of the most important taxonomic distinguishing features. The objective of this study is to classify coat patterns of Allium L. seeds into new groups using scanning electron microscopy unsupervised machine learning. Selected images of seed coat patterns from more than 100 Allium species described in literature and data from our samples were classified into seven types of anticlinal (irregular curved, irregular curved to nearly straight, straight, S, U, U to Ω, and Ω) and five types of periclinal walls (granule, small verrucae, large verrucae, marginal verrucae, and verrucate verrucae). We used five unsupervised machine learning approaches: K-means, K-means++, Minibatch K-means, Spectral, and Birch. The elbow and silhouette approaches were then used to determine the number of clusters required. Thereafter, we compared human- and machine-based results and proposed a new clustering. We then separated the data into six target clusters: SI, SS, SM, NS, PS, and PD. The proposed strongly identical grouping is distinct from the other groups in that the results are exactly the same, but PD is unrelated to the others. Thus, unsupervised machine learning has been shown to support the development of new groups in the Allium seed coat pattern.
Restrained Shrinkage of High-Performance Ready-Mix Concrete Reinforced with Low Volume Fraction of Hybrid Fibers
Authors: Nassif Hani , Habib Mina , Obeidah Adi , Abed Mohammed
Published: November 2022

Cracking due to restrained shrinkage is a recurring issue with concrete bridge decks, impacting durability and ultimately service life. Several scholars’ research has proven that the incorporation of fibers in concrete mitigates restrained shrinkage cracking when utilizing high (0.5–3%) fiber volumes. This often presents a mixing and placement issue when used for ready-mixed concretes, which discourages their use in bridge decks. This study aims to optimize the incorporation of fibers for their benefits while producing concrete that is conducive to ready-mix, jobsite use. A series of tests were performed on a high-performance concrete (HPC) mix which incorporated blended, multiple fiber types (steel crimped, macro polypropylene, and micro polypropylene) while maintaining low total fiber (0.19–0.37%) volume. These “hybrid” fiber mixes were tested for multiple mechanical properties and durability aspects, with a focus on the AASHTO T334 ring test, to evaluate fiber efficiency under restrained conditions. Promising results indicate the use of a low-volume hybrid fiber addition, incorporating a macro and micro polypropylene fiber (0.35% by volume) blend, reduced the cracking area by 16.6% when compared to HPC incorporating a single fiber type, and 39% when compared to nonfibrous HPC control mixture.
A Review on Microstructural Formations of Discontinuous Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites Prepared via Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing: Fiber Orientation, Fiber Attrition, and Micro-Voids Distribution
Authors: Wang Zhaogui , Fang Zhenyu , Xie Zhongqi , Smith Douglas E.
Published: November 2022

A discontinuous fiber-reinforced polymer composite (DFRPC) provides superior mechanical performances in material extrusion additive manufacturing (MEAM) parts, and thus promotes their implementations in engineering applications. However, the process-induced structural defects of DFRPCs increase the probability of pre-mature failures as the manufactured parts experience complicated external loads. In light of this, the meso-structures of the MEAM parts have been discussed previously, while systematic analyses reviewing the studies of the micro-structural formations of the composites are limited. This paper summarizes the current state-of-the-art in exploring the correlations between the MEAM processes and the associated micro-structures of the produced composites. Experimental studies and numerical analyses including fiber orientation, fiber attrition, and micro-voids are collected and discussed. Based on the review and parametric study results, it is considered that the theories and numerical characterizations on fiber length attrition and micro-porosities within the MEAM-produced composites are in high demand, which is a potential topic for further explorations.
Hollow TiO2/Poly (Vinyl Pyrrolidone) Fibers Obtained via Coaxial Electrospinning as Easy-to-Handle Photocatalysts for Effective Nitrogen Oxide Removal
Authors: Kim Juran
Published: November 2022

Herein, we present a method for fabricating hollow TiO2 microfibers from Ti (OBu)4/poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) sol-gel precursors and their effects on denitrification as a photocatalyst for air purification. Various sizes of hollow TiO2 fibers were developed using coaxial electrospinning by controlling the core flow rate from 0 to 3 mL h−1. At higher flow rates, the wall layer was thinner, and outer and core diameters were larger. These features are correlated with physical properties, including specific surface area, average pore diameter, and crystalline structure. The increase in the core flow rate from 0 to 3 mL h−1 leads to a corresponding increase in the specific surface area from 1.81 to 3.95 µm and a decrease in the average pore diameter from 28.9 to 11.1 nm. Furthermore, the increased core flow rate results in a high anatase and rutile phase content in the structure. Herein, hollow TiO2 was produced with an approximately equal content of anatase/rutile phases with few impurities. A flow rate of 3 mL h−1 resulted in the highest specific surface area of 51.28 m2 g−1 and smallest pore diameter size of ~11 nm, offering more active sites at the fiber surface for nitrogen oxide removal of up to 66.2% from the atmosphere.
A Network for Landslide Detection Using Large-Area Remote Sensing Images with Multiple Spatial Resolutions
Authors: Yu Bo , Wang Ning , Xu Chong , Chen Fang , Wang Lei
Published: November 2022

Accurately detecting landslides over a large area with complex background objects is a challenging task. Research in the area suffers from three drawbacks in general. First, the models are mostly modified from typical networks, and are not designed specifically for landslide detection. Second, the images used to construct and evaluate models of landslide detection are limited to one spatial resolution, which struggles to meet the requirements of such relevant applications as emergency response. Third, assessments are primarily carried out by using the training data on different parts of the same study area. This makes it difficult to objectively evaluate the transferability of the model, because ground objects in the same area are distributed with similar spectral characteristics. To respond to the challenges above, this study proposes DeenNet, specifically designed for landslide detection. Different from the widely used encoder–decoder networks, DeenNet maintains multi-scale landslide features by decoding the input feature maps to a large scale before encoding a module. The decoding operation is conducted by deconvolution of the input feature maps, while encoding is conducted by convolution. Our model is trained on two earthquake-triggered landslide datasets, constructed using images with different spatial resolutions from different sensor platforms. Two other landslide datasets of different study areas with different spatial resolutions were used to evaluate the trained model. The experimental results demonstrated an at least 6.17% F1-measure improvement by DeenNet compared with three widely used typical encoder–decoder-based networks. The decoder–encoder network structure of DeenNet proves to be effective in maintaining landslide features, regardless of the size of the landslides in different evaluation images. It further validated the capacity of DeenNet in maintaining landslide features, which provides a strong applicability in the context of applications.
Space Weather Effects Observed in the Northern Hemisphere during November 2021 Geomagnetic Storm: The Impacts on Plasmasphere, Ionosphere and Thermosphere Systems
Authors: Regi Mauro , Perrone Loredana , Del Corpo Alfredo , Spogli Luca , Sabbagh Dario , Cesaroni Claudio , Alfonsi Laura , Bagiacchi Paolo , Cafarella Lili , Carnevale Giuseppina , De Lauretis Marcello , Di Mauro Domenico , Di Pietro Pierluigi , Francia Patrizia , Heilig Balázs , Lepidi Stefania , Marcocci Carlo , Masci Fabrizio , Nardi Adriano , Piscini Alessandro , Redaelli Gianluca , Romano Vincenzo , Sciacca Umberto , Scotto Carlo
Published: November 2022

On 3 November 2021, an interplanetary coronal mass ejection impacted the Earth’s magnetosphere leading to a relevant geomagnetic storm (Kp = 8-), the most intense event that occurred so far during the rising phase of solar cycle 25. This work presents the state of the solar wind before and during the geomagnetic storm, as well as the response of the plasmasphere–ionosphere–thermosphere system in the European sector. To investigate the longitudinal differences, the ionosphere–thermosphere response of the American sector was also analyzed. The plasmasphere dynamics was investigated through field line resonances detected at the European quasi-Meridional Magnetometer Array, while the ionosphere was investigated through the combined use of ionospheric parameters (mainly the critical frequency of the F2 layer, foF2) from ionosondes and Total Electron Content (TEC) obtained from Global Navigation Satellite System receivers at four locations in the European sector, and at three locations in the American one. An original method was used to retrieve aeronomic parameters from observed electron concentration in the ionospheric F region. During the analyzed interval, the plasmasphere, originally in a state of saturation, was eroded up to two Earth’s radii, and only partially recovered after the main phase of the storm. The possible formation of a drainage plume is also observed. We observed variations in the ionospheric parameters with negative and positive phase and reported longitudinal and latitudinal dependence of storm features in the European sector. The relative behavior between foF2 and TEC data is also discussed in order to speculate about the possible role of the topside ionosphere and plasmasphere response at the investigated European site. The American sector analysis revealed negative storm signatures in electron concentration at the F2 region. Neutral composition and temperature changes are shown to be the main reason for the observed decrease of electron concentration in the American sector.