bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into the Photoelectrocatalytic Behavior of gCN-Based Anode Materials Supported on Ni Foams
Authors: Benedoue Serge , Benedet Mattia , Gasparotto Alberto , Gauquelin Nicolas , Orekhov Andrey , Verbeeck Johan , Seraglia Roberta , Pagot Gioele , Rizzi Gian Andrea , Balzano Vincenzo , Gavioli Luca , Noto Vito Di , Barreca Davide , Maccato Chiara
Published: March 2023

Graphitic carbon nitride (gCN) is a promising n-type semiconductor widely investigated for photo-assisted water splitting, but less studied for the (photo)electrochemical degradation of aqueous organic pollutants. In these fields, attractive perspectives for advancements are offered by a proper engineering of the material properties, e.g., by depositing gCN onto conductive and porous scaffolds, tailoring its nanoscale morphology, and functionalizing it with suitable cocatalysts. The present study reports on a simple and easily controllable synthesis of gCN flakes on Ni foam substrates by electrophoretic deposition (EPD), and on their eventual decoration with Co-based cocatalysts [CoO, CoFe2O4, cobalt phosphate (CoPi)] via radio frequency (RF)-sputtering or electrodeposition. After examining the influence of processing conditions on the material characteristics, the developed systems are comparatively investigated as (photo)anodes for water splitting and photoelectrocatalysts for the degradation of a recalcitrant water pollutant [potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHP)]. The obtained results highlight that while gCN decoration with Co-based cocatalysts boosts water splitting performances, bare gCN as such is more efficient in KHP abatement, due to the occurrence of a different reaction mechanism. The related insights, provided by a multi-technique characterization, may provide valuable guidelines for the implementation of active nanomaterials in environmental remediation and sustainable solar-to-chemical energy conversion.
Carbon Nanotube Migration in a Compatibilized Blend System, Leading to Kinetically Induced Enhancement in Electrical Conductivity and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Azubuike Lilian , Wang Jun , Sundararaj Uttandaraman
Published: March 2023

Kinetic factors that facilitate carbon nanotube (CNT) migration in a polymer blend from a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) phase to a poly (p-phenylene ether) (PPE) phase were studied, with the objective to induce CNT migration and localization at the interface. Herein, a CNT filler was pre-localized in an HDPE polymer and then blended with PPE at different blend compositions of 20:80, 40:60, 60:40, and 80:20 of PPE/HDPE at a constant filler concentration of 1 wt%. The level of CNT migration was studied at different mixing times of 5 and 10 min. The electrical conductivity initially increased by 2–3 orders of magnitude, with an increase in the PPE content up to 40%, and then it decreased significantly by up to 12 orders of magnitude at high PPE content up to 100%. We determined that the extent of migration was related to the difference in the melt viscosity between the constituent polymers. A triblock copolymer styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene (SEBS) was used to improve the blend miscibility, and 2 wt% copolymer was found to be the optimum concentration for the electrical properties for the two blend compositions of 20:80 and 80:20 of PPE/HDPE, at a constant filler concentration of 1 wt%. The introduction of the SEBS triblock copolymer significantly increased the conductivity almost by almost four orders of magnitude for PPE/HDPE/80:20 composites with 1 wt% CNT and 2 wt% SEBS compared to the uncompatibilized blend nanocomposite. The mechanical strength of the compatibilized blend nanocomposites was found to be higher than the unfilled compatibilized blend (i.e., without CNT), uncompatibilized blend nanocomposites, and the pristine blend, illustrating the synergistic effect of adding nanofillers and a compatibilizer. SEM and TEM microstructures were used to interpret the structure–property relationships of these polymer blend nanocomposites.
Measurement of Mechanical Properties of VO2 Films by Nanoindentation
Authors: Wang Yuemin , Li Xingang , Lu Jiarui , Li Yao , Yan Xiangqiao , Dou Shuliang , Wang Lei
Published: March 2023

The present work reported the intrinsic mechanical behavior of vanadium dioxide (VO2) thin film deposited on a SiO2 substrate using a combination of nanoindentation tests and a theoretical model. The effect of phase transition on mechanical parameters was studied by adjusting the test temperature. A new model that can simultaneously extract the elastic modulus and hardness was derived by introducing a dimensional analysis. The results showed that the thin film exhibits a hardness of 9.43 GPa and a Young’s modulus of about 138.5 GPa at room temperature, compared with the values of 5.71 GPa and 126.9 GPa at a high temperature, respectively. It can be seen that the intrinsic mechanical parameters decrease to a certain extent after a phase transition. Finally, the numerical simulation results were consistent with those of the experiments, which verified the effectiveness of the new method. In addition, this study also provided useful guidance for mechanical tests on other ultra-thin films.
Reduced Graphene Oxide/Waste-Derived TiO2 Composite Membranes: Preliminary Study of a New Material for Hybrid Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Basso Peressut Andrea , Cristiani Cinzia , Dotelli Giovanni , Dotti Anna , Latorrata Saverio , Bahamonde Ana , Gascó Antonio , Hermosilla Daphne , Balzarotti Riccardo
Published: March 2023

This work reports the preliminary results of the development of composite self-assembling membranes obtained by the combination of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with commercial Degussa P25 titanium dioxide (TiO2). The purpose is to demonstrate the possibility of combining, in the same self-standing material, the capability to treat wastewater containing both inorganic and organic pollutants by exploiting the established ability of rGO to capture metal ions together with that of TiO2 to degrade organic substances. Moreover, this study also investigates the potential photocatalytic properties of tionite (TIO), to demonstrate the feasibility of replacing commercial TiO2 with such waste-derived TiO2-containing material, fulfilling a circular economy approach. Thus, rGO–TiO2 and rGO–TIO composite membranes, 1:1 by weight, were prepared and characterized by SEM-EDX, XRD, thermogravimetry, as well as by Raman and UV-Vis spectroscopies to verify the effective and homogeneous integration of the two components. Then, they were tested towards 3-mg L−1 aqueous synthetic solutions of Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions to evaluate their metal adsorption ability, with values of the order of 0.1–0.2 mmol gmembrane−1, comparable or even slightly higher than those of pristine rGO. Finally, the ability of the composites to degrade a common organic pesticide, i.e., Imidacloprid®, was assessed in preliminary photocatalysis experiments, in which maximum degradation efficiencies of 25% (after 3 h) for rGO–TiO2 and of 21% (after 1 h) for rGO–TIO were found. The result of tionite-containing membranes is particularly promising and worthy of further investigation, given that the anatase content of tionite is roughly 1/6 of the one in commercial TiO2.
Exploring the Role of Miniemulsion Nanodroplet Confinement on the Crystallization of MoO3: Morphology Control and Insight on Crystal Formation by In Situ Time-Resolved SAXS/WAXS
Authors: Tajoli Francesca , Massagrande Maria Vittoria , Muñoz-Espí Rafael , Gross Silvia
Published: March 2023

Enclosed nanoscale volumes, i.e., confined spaces, represent a fascinating playground for the controlled synthesis of inorganic materials, albeit their role in determining the synthetic outcome is currently not fully understood. Herein, we address the synthesis of MoO3 nano- and microrods with hexagonal section in inverse miniemulsion droplets and batch conditions, evaluating the effects of spatial confinement offered by miniemulsion droplets on their crystallization. Several synthetic parameters were systematically screened and their effect on the crystal structure of h-MoO3, as well as on its size, size distribution and morphology, were investigated. Moreover, a direct insight on the crystallization pathway of MoO3 in both synthetic conditions and as a function of synthetic parameters was provided by an in situ time-resolved SAXS/WAXS study, that confirmed the role of miniemulsion confined space in altering the stepwise process of the formation of h-MoO3.
Luminescence Nanomaterials and Applications
Authors: Chen Wei , Cao Derong
Published: March 2023

We are pleased to introduce to you this Special Issue of Nanomaterials on ‘Luminescence Nanomaterials and Applications’ [...]
Nanoscale Phase Change Material Array by Sub-Resolution Assist Feature for Storage Class Memory Application
Authors: Zhang Jiarui , Fang Wencheng , Wang Ruobing , Li Chengxing , Zheng Jia , Zou Xixi , Song Sannian , Song Zhitang , Zhou Xilin
Published: March 2023

High density phase change memory array requires both minimized critical dimension (CD) and maximized process window for the phase change material layer. High in-wafer uniformity of the nanoscale patterning of chalcogenides material is challenging given the optical proximity effect (OPE) in the lithography process and the micro-loading effect in the etching process. In this study, we demonstrate an approach to fabricate high density phase change material arrays with half-pitch down to around 70 nm by the co-optimization of lithography and plasma etching process. The focused-energy matrix was performed to improve the pattern process window of phase change material on a 12-inch wafer. A variety of patternings from an isolated line to a dense pitch line were investigated using immersion lithography system. The collapse of the edge line is observed due to the OPE induced shrinkage in linewidth, which is deteriorative as the patterning density increases. The sub-resolution assist feature (SRAF) was placed to increase the width of the lines at both edges of each patterning by taking advantage of the optical interference between the main features and the assistant features. The survival of the line at the edges is confirmed with around a 70 nm half-pitch feature in various arrays. A uniform etching profile across the pitch line pattern of phase change material was demonstrated in which the micro-loading effect and the plasma etching damage were significantly suppressed by co-optimizing the etching parameters. The results pave the way to achieve high density device arrays with improved uniformity and reliability for mass storage applications.
Functionalization of Screen-Printed Electrodes with Grape Stalk Waste Extract-Assisted Synthesized Silver and Gold Nanoparticles: Perspectives of Electrocatalytically Enhanced Determination of Uranyl Ion and Other Heavy Metals Ions
Authors: Torres-Rivero Karina , Florido Antonio , Martí Vicenç , Bastos-Arrieta Julio
Published: March 2023

Recently, nanotechnology and nanoparticles (NPs) such as AgNPs and AuNPs have become important in analytical chemistry due to their great potential to improve the performance of electrochemical sensors. In this work, Ag and Au nanoparticles have been synthesized using a green route in which a grape stalk waste extract is used as a reducing agent to obtain metallic nanoparticles. These NPs were used to customize the surface of commercial screen-printed electrodes (SPCNFEs). The spin-coating method was used to modify commercial SPCNFEs under a nitrogen atmosphere. The resulting electrodes were used in a determination study of Cd(II), Pb(II), and U(VI) with differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV). The customized green AgNPs and AuNPs electrodes presented higher sensitivity and electroanalytical performance than the non-modified SPCNFE. The results showed that the best analytical parameters were obtained with the green, silver nanoparticle SPCNFEs, with a LOD of 0.12 μg L−1 for Pb(II), which is a lower value compared to the most restrictive regulation guidelines. Additionally, the U(VI) ion was successfully determined using the developed G-AgNPs-SPCNFE in spiked tap water, showing comparable results with the ICP-MS technique.
Bioactivity Enhancement of Plasma-Sprayed Hydroxyapatite Coatings through Non-Contact Corona Electrical Charging
Authors: Prezas Pedro R. , Soares Manuel J. , Borges João P. , Silva Jorge C. , Oliveira Filipe J. , Graça Manuel Pedro F.
Published: March 2023

Atmospheric plasma spray (APS) remains the only certified industrial process to produce hydroxyapatite (Hap) coatings on orthopaedic and dental implants intended for commercialization. Despite the established clinical success of Hap-coated implants, such as hip and knee arthroplasties, a concern is being raised regarding the failure and revision rates in younger patients, which are increasing rapidly worldwide. The lifetime risk of replacement for patients in the 50–60 age interval is about 35%, which is significantly higher than 5% for patients aged 70 or older. Improved implants targeted at younger patients are a necessity that experts have been alerted to. One approach is to enhance their bioactivity. For this purpose, the method with the most outstanding biological results is the electrical polarization of Hap, which remarkably accelerates implant osteointegration. There is, however, the technical challenge of charging the coatings. Although this is straightforward on bulk samples with planar faces, it is not easy on coatings, and there are several problems regarding the application of electrodes. To the best of our knowledge, this study demonstrates, for the first time, the electrical charging of APS Hap coatings using a non-contact, electrode-free method: corona charging. Bioactivity enhancement is observed, establishing the promising potential of corona charging in orthopedics and dental implantology. It is found that the coatings can store charge at the surface and bulk levels up to high surface potentials (>1000 V). The biological in vitro results show higher Ca2+ and P5+ intakes in charged coatings compared to non-charged coatings. Moreover, a higher osteoblastic cellular proliferation is promoted in the charged coatings, indicating the promising potential of corona-charged coatings when applied in orthopedics and dental implantology.
‘Early Introduction’ of Cow’s Milk for Children with IgE-Mediated Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy: A Review of Current and Emerging Approaches for CMPA Management
Authors: Cronin Caoimhe , Ramesh Yukta , De Pieri Carlo , Velasco Roberto , Trujillo Juan
Published: March 2023

IgE-mediated cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) is one of the most prevalent food allergies in early childhood. Though the cornerstone of management involves the strict avoidance of milk products while awaiting natural tolerance, research increasingly shows that the rates of resolution are slowing down. Therefore, there is a need to explore alternative pathways to promote tolerance to cow’s milk in pediatric populations. This review aims to combine and appraise the scientific literature regarding the three CMPA management methods: avoidance, the milk ladder, and oral immunotherapy (OIT) and their outcomes in terms of efficacy, safety, and immunological effects. Cow’s milk (CM) avoidance virtually protects against allergic reaction until natural tolerance occurs, with hypoallergenic substitutes available in the market, but accidental ingestion represents the main issue for this strategy. Introduction to baked milk using the milk ladder was designed, with most CMPA patients successfully completing the ladder. Similar to baked milk treatment, many OIT protocols also demonstrated decreased IgE and increased IgG4 levels post protocol, as well as a reduction in wheal size diameter. Though these strategies are shown to be safe and effective in CMPA, future clinical trials should compare the safety and effectiveness of these three management strategies.
Nonperturbative Generation of Harmonics by Nanometer-Scale Localized Electronic States on the Surface of Bulk Materials and Nano-Films
Authors: Seres Jozsef , Seres Enikoe , Céspedes Eva , Martinez-de-Olcoz Leyre , Zabala Miguel , Schumm Thorsten
Published: March 2023

The generation of high-order harmonics in solid crystals has received considerable attention recently. Using a driver laser with 0.8 µm wavelength and 28 fs ultrashort pulses, we present experimental results, accompanied with theoretical considerations, suggesting that the actual sources of the harmonics are nanometer-sized localized and transient electronic states on the surface of the materials when the laser intensity is in the non-perturbative regime. Adaptation of the bond model of the harmonic generation into the non-perturbative regime and including the quantum features of the process provide a localized excitation approach that correctly describes the measured polarization dependence of the harmonic signal, reflecting the microscopic surface structure and symmetries of the examined materials.
Pre-Vaccination Human Papillomavirus Genotypes and HPV16 Variants among Women Aged 25 Years or Less with Cervical Cancer
Authors: Jayasinghe Yasmin L. , Tabrizi Sepehr N. , Stevens Matthew , Leong Trishe Y-M. , Pyman Jan , Grover Sonia R. , Garland Suzanne M. ,   the Early-Onset Cervical Cancer (EOCC) Study Group
Published: March 2023

Background: In 2007, Australia introduced a national human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program. In 2017, the onset of cervical screening changed from 18 to 25 years of age, utilising human papillomavirus (HPV) nucleic acid testing. The objective of the study is to describe the HPV genotypes and HPV16 variants in biopsies from women ≤ 25 years of age with cervical carcinoma (CC) (cases), compared with those aged >25 years (controls), in a pre-vaccination cohort. Methods: HPV genotyping of archival paraffin blocks (n = 96) was performed using the INNO-LiPA HPV Genotyping assay. HPV16-positive samples were analysed for variants by type-specific PCR spanning L1, E2 and E6 regions. Results: HPV16 was the commonest genotype in cases (54.5%, 12/22) and controls (66.7%, 46/69) (p = 0.30), followed by HPV18 (36.3%, 8/22 vs. 17.3% 12/69, respectively) (p = 0.08). Furthermore, 90% (20/22) of cases and 84.1% (58/69) of controls were positive for HPV16 or 18 (p = 0.42); 100% (22/22) of cases and 95.7% (66/69) of controls had at least one genotype targeted by the nonavalent vaccine (p = 0.3). The majority of HPV16 variants (87.3%, 48/55) were of European lineage. The proportion of unique nucleotide substitutions was significantly higher in cases (83.3%, 10/12) compared with controls (34.1%, 15/44), (p < 0.003, χ2, OR 9.7, 95%CI 1.7–97.7). Conclusions: Virological factors may account for the differences in CCs observed in younger compared with older women. All CCs in young women in this study had preventable 9vHPV types, which is important messaging for health provider adherence to new cervical screening guidelines.
Tulathromycin and Diclazuril Lack Efficacy against Theileria haneyi, but Tulathromycin Is Not Associated with Adverse Clinical Effects in Six Treated Adult Horses
Authors: Onzere Cynthia K. , Hulbert Morgan , Sears Kelly P. , Williams Laura B. A. , Fry Lindsay M.
Published: March 2023

Equine theileriosis, caused by Theileria haneyi and Theileria equi, leads to anemia, exercise intolerance, and occasionally, death. Theileriosis-free countries prohibit the importation of infected horses, resulting in significant costs for the equine industry. Imidocarb dipropionate is the only treatment for T. equi in the United States, but lacks efficacy against T. haneyi. The goal of this study was to assess the in vivo efficacy of tulathromycin and diclazuril against T. haneyi. Fourteen T. haneyi-infected horses were utilized. Six were treated with eight weekly 2.5 mg/kg doses of tulathromycin. Three were treated daily for eight weeks with 2.5 mg/kg diclazuril. Three were pre-treated with 0.5 mg/kg diclazuril daily for one month to determine whether low-dose diclazuril prevents infection. Following infection, the dose was increased to 2.5 mg/kg for eight weeks. Two infected horses remained untreated as controls. The horses were assessed via nested PCR, physical exams, complete blood counts, serum chemistry panels, and cytology. Tulathromycin and diclazuril failed to clear T. haneyi and the treated and control groups exhibited similar parasitemia and packed cell volume declines. To obtain additional safety data on tulathromycin use in adult horses, necropsy and histopathology were performed on tulathromycin-treated horses. No significant lesions were detected.
Pentosan Polysulfate Affords Pleotropic Protection to Multiple Cells and Tissues
Authors: Smith Margaret M. , Melrose James
Published: March 2023

Pentosan polysulfate (PPS), a small semi-synthetic highly sulfated heparan sulfate (HS)-like molecule, shares many of the interactive properties of HS. The aim of this review was to outline the potential of PPS as an interventional therapeutic protective agent in physiological processes affecting pathological tissues. PPS is a multifunctional molecule with diverse therapeutic actions against many disease processes. PPS has been used for decades in the treatment of interstitial cystitis and painful bowel disease, it has tissue-protective properties as a protease inhibitor in cartilage, tendon and IVD, and it has been used as a cell-directive component in bioscaffolds in tissue engineering applications. PPS regulates complement activation, coagulation, fibrinolysis and thrombocytopenia, and it promotes the synthesis of hyaluronan. Nerve growth factor production in osteocytes is inhibited by PPS, reducing bone pain in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (OA/RA). PPS also removes fatty compounds from lipid-engorged subchondral blood vessels in OA/RA cartilage, reducing joint pain. PPS regulates cytokine and inflammatory mediator production and is also an anti-tumor agent that promotes the proliferation and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and the development of progenitor cell lineages that have proven to be useful in strategies designed to effect repair of the degenerate intervertebral disc (IVD) and OA cartilage. PPS stimulates proteoglycan synthesis by chondrocytes in the presence or absence of interleukin (IL)-1, and stimulates hyaluronan production by synoviocytes. PPS is thus a multifunctional tissue-protective molecule of potential therapeutic application for a diverse range of disease processes.
Effect of Inhalation Profile on Delivery of Treprostinil Palmitil Inhalation Powder
Authors: Gauani Helena , Baker Thomas , Li Zhili , Malinin Vladimir S. , Perkins Walter R. , Sullivan Eugene J. , Cipolla David
Published: March 2023

Treprostinil palmitil (TP), a prodrug of treprostinil, is being developed as an inhalation powder (TPIP) for the treatment of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary hypertension due to interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD). In ongoing human clinical trials, TPIP is administered via a commercially available high resistance (HR) RS01 capsule-based dry powder inhaler (DPI) device manufactured by Berry Global (formerly Plastiape), which utilizes the patient’s inspiratory flow to provide the required energy to deagglomerate and disperse the powder for delivery to their lungs. In this study, we characterized the aerosol performance of TPIP in response to changes in inhalation profiles to model more realistic use scenarios, i.e., for reduced inspiratory volumes and with inhalation acceleration rates that differ from those described in the compendia. The emitted dose of TP for all combinations of inhalation profiles and volumes ranged narrowly between 79 and 89% for the 16 and 32 mg TPIP capsules at the 60 LPM inspiratory flow rate but was reduced to 72–76% for the 16 mg TPIP capsule under the scenarios at the 30 LPM peak inspiratory flow rate. There were no meaningful differences in the fine particle dose (FPD) at all conditions at 60 LPM with the 4 L inhalation volume. The FPD values for the 16 mg TPIP capsule ranged narrowly between 60 and 65% of the loaded dose for all inhalation ramp rates with a 4 L volume and at both extremes of ramp rates for inhalation volumes down to 1 L, while the FPD values for the 32 mg TPIP capsule ranged between 53 and 65% of the loaded dose for all inhalation ramp rates with a 4 L volume and at both extremes of ramp rates for inhalation volumes down to 1 L for the 60 LPM flow rate. At the 30 LPM peak flow rate, the FPD values for the 16 mg TPIP capsule ranged narrowly between 54 and 58% of the loaded dose at both extremes of the ramp rates for inhalation volumes down to 1 L. Based on these in vitro findings, the TPIP delivery system appears not to be affected by the changes in inspiratory flow profiles or inspiratory volumes that might be expected to occur in patients with PAH or PH associated with underlying lung conditions such as ILD.
Development and Characterization of Quercetin-Loaded Delivery Systems for Increasing Its Bioavailability in Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Ferreira Miguel , Gomes Diana , Neto Miguel , Passarinha Luís A. , Costa Diana , Sousa Ângela
Published: March 2023

Quercetin is a natural flavonoid with high anticancer activity, especially for related-HPV cancers such as cervical cancer. However, quercetin exhibits a reduced aqueous solubility and stability, resulting in a low bioavailability that limits its therapeutic use. In this study, chitosan/sulfonyl-ether-β-cyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD)-conjugated delivery systems have been explored in order to increase quercetin loading capacity, carriage, solubility and consequently bioavailability in cervical cancer cells. SBE-β-CD/quercetin inclusion complexes were tested as well as chitosan/SBE-β-CD/quercetin-conjugated delivery systems, using two types of chitosan differing in molecular weight. Regarding characterization studies, HMW chitosan/SBE-β-CD/quercetin formulations have demonstrated the best results, which are obtaining nanoparticle sizes of 272.07 ± 2.87 nm, a polydispersity index (PdI) of 0.287 ± 0.011, a zeta potential of +38.0 ± 1.34 mV and an encapsulation efficiency of approximately 99.9%. In vitro release studies were also performed for 5 kDa chitosan formulations, indicating a quercetin release of 9.6% and 57.53% at pH 7.4 and 5.8, respectively. IC50 values on HeLa cells indicated an increased cytotoxic effect with HMW chitosan/SBE-β-CD/quercetin delivery systems (43.55 μM), suggesting a remarkable improvement of quercetin bioavailability.
Size-Controllable Nanosystem with Double Responsive for Deep Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Wan Shuang-Shuang , Tao Jun , Wu Qian , Liu Wu-Rui , Ding Xian-Guang , Zhang Xian-Zheng
Published: March 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising strategy for cancer treatment. However, a poor tissue penetration of activation light and low target specificity seriously hindered the clinical application of PDT. Here, we designed and constructed a size-controllable nanosystem (UPH) with inside-out responsive for deep PDT with enhanced biosafety. To obtain nanoparticles with the best quantum yield, a series of core-shell nanoparticles (UCNP@nPCN) with different thicknesses were synthesized by a layer-by-layer self-assembly method to incorporate a porphyritic porous coordination network (PCN) onto the surface of upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs), followed by coating with hyaluronic acid (HA) on the surface of nanoparticles with optimized thickness to form the UPH nanoparticles. With the aid of HA, the UPH nanoparticles were capable of preferentially enriching in tumor sites and specific endocytosis by CD44 receptors as well as responsive degradation by hyaluronidase in cancer cells after intravenous administration. Subsequently, after being activated by strong penetrating 980 nm near-infrared light (NIR), the UPH nanoparticles efficiently converted oxygen into strongly oxidizing reactive oxygen species based on the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) effect, thereby significantly inhibiting tumor growth. Experimental results in vitro and in vivo indicated that such dual-responsive nanoparticles successfully realize the photodynamic therapy of deep-seated cancer with negligible side effects, which showed great potential for potential clinical translational research.
Platinum-Nucleos(t)ide Compounds as Possible Antimetabolites for Antitumor/Antiviral Therapy: Properties and Perspectives
Authors: De Castro Federica , Stefàno Erika , De Luca Erik , Benedetti Michele , Fanizzi Francesco Paolo
Published: March 2023

Nucleoside analogues (NAs) are a family of compounds which include a variety of purine and pyrimidine derivatives, widely used as anticancer and antiviral agents. For their ability to compete with physiological nucleosides, NAs act as antimetabolites exerting their activity by interfering with the synthesis of nucleic acids. Much progress in the comprehension of their molecular mechanisms has been made, including providing new strategies for potentiating anticancer/antiviral activity. Among these strategies, new platinum-NAs showing a good potential to improve the therapeutic indices of NAs have been synthesized and studied. This short review aims to describe the properties and future perspectives of platinum-NAs, proposing these complexes as a new class of antimetabolites.
Community-Centered Patient Journey Map in Opioid Use Disorder: A Tool to Address Compassion Fatigue among Community Pharmacists
Authors: Hohmeier Kenneth Charles , Cernasev Alina , Leibold Christina , Moore Todd M. , Schlesinger Erica , Cochran Gerald , Arce Ileana , Geminn Wesley , Chisholm-Burns Marie
Published: March 2023

Community pharmacists have become increasingly exposed to opioid use disorders in recent decades. However, both pharmacist training and traditional practice environments have not been adequate to prepare the pharmacist for both the patient care needs and regulatory barriers of patients experiencing opioid use disorders (OUD). As a result, there is a need to increase pharmacists’ awareness of both the overall patient experience as they navigate their OUD and the role of the community pharmacy as a touchpoint within that experience. To this end, a Community-Centered Patient Journey in Drug Addiction Treatment journey map was developed with expert insights, clinical experience, and in-depth interviews (conducted in spring of 2021) with 16 participants enrolled in licensed opioid treatment programs in Tennessee. Patients, policymakers, clinicians, and academic researchers were involved in the map development. Lived experiences of key informants were captured via in-depth interviews. A consensus decision-making approach was used throughout the patient journey map development process. The final patient journey map illustrates a non-linear pathway, describes the central role of the patient’s community, and emphasizes three major “pain points” within the system (access, adherence, and affordability). Future research should investigate the impact of such a journey map on pharmacy personnel’s knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.
Perceptions of and Preparedness for the Application of Pharmacoeconomics in Practice, among Final Year Bachelor of Pharmacy Students in South Africa: A National Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Schmidt Carlien , Matlala Moliehi , Godman Brian , Kurdi Amanj , Meyer Johanna C.
Published: March 2023

For the improvement of access to health, many countries including South Africa, have adopted universal healthcare. However, this requires skills to apply health technology assessments for the facilitation of investment decisions. This study aimed to ascertain final year Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) students’ perceptions of the relevance of pharmacoeconomics in pharmacy practice, and their level of preparedness to apply pharmacoeconomic principles, using a quantitative, cross-sectional, and descriptive design. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire over 12 months, and included student demographics, knowledge about pharmacoeconomics and its applicability in practice, as well as students’ satisfaction with the appropriateness of the curriculum content. Five of nine universities offering pharmacy education took part. The overallstudent response rate was 38.1% (189/496), with 26.2% (45/172) of students signifying a good understanding of basic pharmacoeconomic concepts. Pharmacoeconomics application in South Africa was perceived to be relevant by 87.5% (140/160); however, 47.0% (79/168) felt they were not prepared to apply pharmacoeconomic principles in medicine management, and 86.7% (137/158) wanted to acquire additional pharmacoeconomic knowledge. Whilst students’ perceptions of the relevance of pharmacoeconomics were positive, results indicated a gap in knowledge, understanding, and application. Addressing this gap may increase students’ preparedness to apply pharmacoeconomic principles and better equip them for the practical application of pharmacoeconomics post qualification. Consequently, we have started this process.
Generation of Sesame Mutant Population by Mutagenesis and Identification of High Oleate Mutants by GC Analysis
Authors: Wang Ming Li , Tonnis Brandon , Li Xianran , Morris John Bradly
Published: March 2023

Sesame is one of the important oilseed crops in the world. Natural genetic variation exists in the sesame germplasm collection. Mining and utilizing the genetic allele variation from the germplasm collection is an important approach for seed quality improvement. The sesame germplasm accession, PI 263470, which has a significantly higher level of oleic acid (54.0%) than the average (39.5%), was identified by screening the entire USDA germplasm collection. The seeds from this accession were planted in a greenhouse. Leaf tissues and seeds were harvested from individual plants. DNA sequencing of the coding region of the fatty acid desaturase gene (FAD2) confirmed that this accession contained a natural mutation of G425A which may correspond to the deduced amino acid substitution of R142H leading to the high level of oleic acid, but it was a mixed accession with three genotypes (G/G, G/A, and A/A at the position). The genotype with A/A was selected and self-crossed for three generations. The purified seeds were used for EMS-induced mutagenesis to further enhance the level of oleic acid. A total of 635 M2 plants were generated from mutagenesis. Some mutant plants had significant morphological changes including leafy flat stems and others. M3 seeds were used for fatty acid composition analysis by gas chromatography (GC). Several mutant lines were identified with high oleic acid (70%). Six M3 mutant lines plus one control line were advanced to M7 or M8 generations. Their high oleate traits from M7 or M8 seeds harvested from M6 or M7 plants were further confirmed. The level of oleic acid from one mutant line (M7 915-2) was over 75%. The coding region of FAD2 was sequenced from these six mutants, but no mutation was identified. Additional loci may contribute to the high level of oleic acid. The mutants identified in this study can be used as breeding materials for sesame improvement and as genetic materials for forward genetic studies.
Phosphorus Use Efficiency of Leafy Brassica sp. Grown in Three Contrasting Soils: Growth, Enzyme Activity and Phosphorus Fractionation
Authors: Urlić Branimir , Dumičić Gvozden , Radić Tomislav , Goreta Ban Smiljana , Romić Marija
Published: March 2023

Plant adaptations to low soil phosphorus (P) availability have been intensively studied in Brassica sp. in an attempt to identify the mechanisms involved in P uptake and utilization. The present pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the relationships between plant shoot and root growth, P uptake and use efficiency parameters, and P fractions and enzyme activity, in two species grown in three soil types. The aim of this study was to determine whether adaptation mechanisms are soil-dependent. Two kale species were grown in soils typical for coastal Croatia (terra rossa, rendzina, and fluvisol) with low P availability. Plants grown in fluvisol had the highest shoot biomass and accumulated most P, whereas plants developed the longest roots in terra rossa. Phosphatase activity differed among soils. P use efficiency differed among soils and species. Genotype IJK 17 showed better adaptation to low P availability, which was related to better uptake efficiency. In general, soils differed in inorganic and organic P fractions in rhizosphere soil, but no difference between genotypes was found. The activities of alkaline phosphatase and phosphodiesterase were negatively correlated with most organic P fractions, suggesting their function in the mineralization of soil organic P. Kale species activate different mechanisms of P uptake and utilization when grown in contrasting soil types, suggesting that specific responses to the soil type were more important than the genotypic difference.
Effect of Biotic Elicitors on the Growth, Antioxidant Activity and Metabolites Accumulation in In Vitro Propagated Shoots of Pueraria tuberosa
Authors: Kanthaliya Bhanupriya , Joshi Abhishek , Arora Jaya , Alqahtani Mashael Daghash , Abd_Allah Elsayed Fathi
Published: March 2023

Pueraria tuberosa contains a wide range of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, alkaloids, and phytosterols, which make it valuable to the pharmaceutical and food industries. Elicitor compounds trigger the defense mechanisms in plants and are widely used to increase the yield of bioactive molecules in in vitro cultures. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of biotic elicitors such as yeast extract (YE), pectin (PEC), and alginate (ALG) on growth, antioxidant activity, and metabolite accumulation in in vitro propagated shoots of P. tuberosa. The elicitors applied to shoot cultures of P. tuberosa significantly increased biomass (shoot number, fresh weight, and dry weight), and metabolites such as protein, carbohydrates, chlorophyll, total phenol (TP), and total flavonoid (TF) contents, as well as antioxidant activity compared to untreated control. Biomass, TP, and TF contents, as well as antioxidant activity, were most significant in cultures treated with 100 mg/L PEC. In contrast, chlorophyll, protein, and carbohydrate increased most in cultures treated with 200 mg/L ALG. Application of 100 mg/L of PEC led to the accumulation of high amounts of isoflavonoids including puerarin (220.69 μg/g), daidzin (2935.55 μg/g), genistin (5612 μg/g), daidzein (479.81 μg/g), and biochanin-A (111.511 μg/g) as analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Total isoflavonoids content of 100 mg/L PEC treated shoots was obtained as 9359.56 μg/g, 1.68-fold higher than in vitro propagated shoots without elicitors (5573.13 μg/g) and 2.77-fold higher than shoots of the mother plant (3380.17 μg/g). The elicitor concentrations were optimized as 200 mg/L YE, 100 mg/L PEC, and 200 mg/L ALG. Overall, this study showed that the application of different biotic elicitors resulted in better growth, antioxidant activity, and accumulation of metabolites in P. tuberosa, which could lead to obtaining phytopharmaceutical advantages in the future.
Identification and Characterization of Fusarium fujikuroi Pathotypes Responsible for an Emerging Bakanae Disease of Rice in India
Authors: Tadasanahaller Prashantha S. , Bashyal Bishnu Maya , Yadav Jagdish , Krishnan Subbaiyan Gopala , Ellur Ranjith K. , Aggarwal Rashmi
Published: March 2023

The bakanae disease of rice, or foolish seedling disease, is a well-known pathogen infecting rice hosts. Several studies have characterized Fusarium fujikuroi isolates collected from distant geographical regions and within similar geographical areas for secondary metabolite production, population structure, and diversity analysis, but none have attempted to characterize the isolates for virulence in a differential set of rice genotypes. Based on the disease response, a set of five rice genotypes with differing resistance levels were selected as a differential set for further characterization of the pathogen. Ninety-seven Fusarium fujikuroi isolates collected from different rice-growing areas of the country during the years 2011 to 2020 were characterized and evaluated for bakanae disease. Rice genotypes PB1509 and C101A51 were found to be highly susceptible and highly resistant, respectively. Further, based on the disease response, the isolates were grouped into 15 pathotypes. Pathotype 1, with the maximum isolates (19), was observed to be most prevalent, followed by pathotypes 2 and 3. Pathotype 8 was classified as highly virulent, as all the genotypes were susceptible, except for C101A51. When we compared the pathotype distribution in different states, pathotypes 11 and 15 were found to have originated from the state of Punjab. A positive correlation could be established between six pathotype groups and the gene expression of virulence-related genes such as acetylxylan (FFAC), exopolygalacturanase (FFEX), and pisatin demethylase (FFPD). The present study provides the distribution profiles of different pathotypes in Basmati-growing states of India, which will be further helpful for the deployment of breeding strategies and bakanae disease management.
Genetic Diversity of Korean Wild Soybean Core Collections and Genome-Wide Association Study for Days to Flowering
Authors: Jo Hyun , Ha Bo-Keun , Park Soo-Kwon , Jeong Soon-Chun , Lee Jeong-Dong , Moon Jung-Kyung
Published: March 2023

The utilization of wild soybean germplasms in breeding programs increases genetic diversity, and they contain the rare alleles of traits of interest. Understanding the genetic diversity of wild germplasms is essential for determining effective strategies that can improve the economic traits of soybeans. Undesirable traits make it challenging to cultivate wild soybeans. This study aimed to construct a core subset of 1467 wild soybean accessions of the total population and analyze their genetic diversity to understand their genetic variations. Genome-wild association studies were conducted to detect the genetic loci underlying the time to flowering for a core subset collection, and they revealed the allelic variation in E genes for predicting maturity using the available resequencing data of wild soybean. Based on principal component and cluster analyses, 408 wild soybean accessions in the core collection covered the total population and were explained by 3 clusters representing the collection regions, namely, Korea, China, and Japan. Most of the wild soybean collections in this study had the E1e2E3 genotype according to association mapping and a resequencing analysis. Korean wild soybean core collections can provide helpful genetic resources to identify new flowering and maturity genes near the E gene loci and genetic materials for developing new cultivars, facilitating the introgression of genes of interest from wild soybean.
Long-Term In Situ Conservation Drove Microevolution of Solina d’Abruzzo Wheat on Adaptive, Agronomic and Qualitative Traits
Authors: Morcia Caterina , De Flaviis Riccardo , Terzi Valeria , Gasparelli Maria Eugenia , Ghizzoni Roberta , Badeck Franz-W. , Rizza Fulvia , Santarelli Veronica , Tumino Giorgio , Sacchetti Giampiero
Published: March 2023

Solina is an example of a bread wheat landrace that has been conserved in situ for centuries in Central Italy. A core collection of Solina lines sampled in areas at different altitudes and climatic conditions was obtained and genotyped. A clustering analysis based on a wide SNP dataset generated from DArTseq analysis outlined the existence of two main groups, which, after Fst analysis, showed polymorphism in genes associated with vernalization and photoperiod response. Starting from the hypothesis that the different pedoclimatic environments in which Solina lines were conserved may have shaped the population, some phenotypic characteristics were studied in the Solina core collection. Growth habit, low-temperature resistance, allelic variations at major loci involved in vernalization response, and sensitivity to photoperiod were evaluated, together with seed morphologies, grain colour, and hardness. The two Solina groups showed different responses to low temperatures and to photoperiod-specific allelic variations as well as the different morphology and technological characteristics of the grain. In conclusion, the long-term in situ conservation of Solina in environments sited at different altitudes has had an impact on the evolution of this landrace which, despite its high genetic diversity, remains clearly identifiable and distinct so as to be included in conservation varieties.
Identification and Characterization of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) Non-Nodulating Mutants Altered in Rhizobial Infection
Authors: Reyero-Saavedra Rocío , Fuentes Sara Isabel , Leija Alfonso , Jiménez-Nopala Gladys , Peláez Pablo , Ramírez Mario , Girard Lourdes , Porch Timothy G. , Hernández Georgina
Published: March 2023

The symbiotic N2-fixation process in the legume–rhizobia interaction is relevant for sustainable agriculture. The characterization of symbiotic mutants, mainly in model legumes, has been instrumental for the discovery of symbiotic genes, but similar studies in crop legumes are scant. To isolate and characterize common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) symbiotic mutants, an ethyl methanesulphonate-induced mutant population from the BAT 93 genotype was analyzed. Our initial screening of Rhizobium etli CE3-inoculated mutant plants revealed different alterations in nodulation. We proceeded with the characterization of three non-nodulating (nnod), apparently monogenic/recessive mutants: nnod(1895), nnod(2353) and nnod(2114). Their reduced growth in a symbiotic condition was restored when the nitrate was added. A similar nnod phenotype was observed upon inoculation with other efficient rhizobia species. A microscopic analysis revealed a different impairment for each mutant in an early symbiotic step. nnod(1895) formed decreased root hair curling but had increased non-effective root hair deformation and no rhizobia infection. nnod(2353) produced normal root hair curling and rhizobia entrapment to form infection chambers, but the development of the latter was blocked. nnod(2114) formed infection threads that did not elongate and thus did not reach the root cortex level; it occasionally formed non-infected pseudo-nodules. The current research is aimed at mapping the responsible mutated gene for a better understanding of SNF in this critical food crop.