bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Rehabilitation with Alpha Lipoic Acid, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Resveratrol, and Cholecalciferolin Discogenic Sciatica in Young People: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Scaturro Dalila , Vitagliani Fabio , Tomasello Sofia , Sconza Cristiano , Respizzi Stefano , Letizia Mauro Giulia
Published: December 2023

Background and Objectives: In the Western world, back pain and sciatica are among the main causes of disability and absence from work with significant personal, social, and economic costs. This prospective observational study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a rehabilitation program combined with the administration of Alpha Lipoic Acid, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Resveratrol, and Cholecalciferol in the treatment of sciatica due to herniated discs in young patients in terms of pain resolution, postural alterations, taking painkillers, and quality of life. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 128 patients with sciatica. We divided the sample into 3 groups: the Combo group, which received a combination of rehabilitation protocol and daily therapy with 600 mg Alpha Lipoic Acid, 1000 mg Acetyl-L-Carnitine, 50 mg Resveratrol, and 800 UI Cholecalciferol for 30 days; the Reha group, which received only a rehabilitation protocol; and the Supplement group, which received only oral supplementation with 600 mg Alpha Lipoic Acid, 1000 mg Acetyl-L-Carnitine, 50 mg Resveratrol, and 800 UI Cholecalciferol. Clinical assessments were made at the time of recruitment (T0), 30 days after the start of treatment (T1), and 60 days after the end of treatment (T2). The rating scales were as follows: the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS); the Oswestry Disability Questionnaire (ODQ); and the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). All patients also underwent an instrumental stabilometric evaluation. Results: At T1, the Combo group showed statistically superior results compared to the other groups for pain (p < 0.05), disability (p < 0.05), and quality of life (p < 0.05). At T2, the Combo group showed statistically superior results compared to the other groups only for pain (p < 0.05) and quality of life (p < 0.05). From the analysis of the stabilometric evaluation data, we only observed a statistically significant improvement at T2 in the Combo group for the average X (p < 0.05) compared to the other groups. Conclusions: The combined treatment of rehabilitation and supplements with anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and antioxidant action is effective in the treatment of sciatica and can be useful in improving postural stability.
Development of Microrobot with Optical Magnetic Dual Control for Regulation of Gut Microbiota
Authors: Lan Xiaotian , Du Yijie , Liu Fei , Li Gongxin
Published: December 2023

Microrobots have emerged as a promising precision therapy approach that has been widely used in minimally invasive treatments, targeted drug delivery, and wound cleansing, and they also offer a potential new method for actively modulating gut microbiota. Here, a double-faced microrobot was designed to carry gut bacteria via covalently immobilizing the antibodies, and a corresponding integrated optical and magnetic dual-driving control system was also developed for precise control of the microrobot. The microrobot utilizes magnetic microsphere as its core, with one side coated in gold, which serves as the optical receptor surface and the interface for bacterial attachment. The specific gut bacterium, S. cerevisiae, was immobilized on the gold-coated side using the corresponding antibodies. The dual-driving control system enables the precise modulation of gut bacteria by synergistically manipulating the microrobots’ movement via the optical field and magnetic field. The feasibility of independent and coordinated control using optical fields and magnetic fields was validated through experimental and numerical simulation approaches. This work introduces a novel method for the precise modulation of gut microbiota, providing a new avenue for disease treatments based on gut bacteria.
Fungal Endophytes of Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.), Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Their Biological Control of Fusarium Wilt of Banana
Authors: Nthuku Bonface M. , Kahariri Esther W. , Kinyua Johnson K. , Nyaboga Evans N.
Published: December 2023

Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc), significantly affects the productivity of the banana crop in the field. Currently, there are no effective control measures available, and therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel strategies to control the spread of the disease. Biological control is a promising strategy for the management and control of the disease. The aim of this study was to identify fungal endophytes associated with Moringa (Moringa oleifera), Neem tree (Azadirachta indica) and Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and their antifungal activities against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense tropical race 4 (Foc TR4). We isolated 69 fungal endophytes from different tissues of M. oleifera, A. indica and L. angustifolia and screened for antifungal activity against Foc TR4. Six fungal endophytes exhibited highest antagonistic activity against Foc TR4 based on dual-culture assays. Based on morphology and ITS gene sequence analysis, the selected six endophytes were identified to be related to Alternaria alternata (MB7 and NR3), Neofusicoccum parvum (LB1), Fusarium oxysporum (LR1), Talaromyces amestolkiae (MB14) and Alternaria tenuissima (NB6). The culture filtrates of the six fungal endophytes (LB1, LR1, MB7, MB14, NB6 and NR3) exhibited more than 50% inhibition of mycelial growth of Foc TR4 in vitro and were producers of β-1,3-glucanase. The six fungal endophytes showed biocontrol efficacy against Fusarium wilt in pot experiments. The findings from this study demonstrate that fungal endophytes LB1, LR1, MB7, MB14, NB6 and NR3 should be explored as biocontrol agents and biofertilizers in banana production.
Novel Vesicular Formulation Based on a Herbal Extract Loaded with Niosomes and Evaluation of Its Antimicrobial and Anticancer Potential
Authors: Al-Enazi Nouf M. , Alsamhary Khawla , Ameen Fuad , Nobre Marcos Augusto Lima
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to enhance the anticancer and antibacterial properties of Pistacia atlantica through a new parenteral formulation. The innovative approach involved loading P. atlantica fruit extract onto a novel Pluronic vesicular nano platform (Nio), analyzed using various techniques like GC-Mass, SEM, DLS, and UV-vis. The results revealed a stable, spherical Nio/Extract formulation of 103 ± 4.1 nm, possessing a high zeta potential of −30 ± 2.3 mV, with an impressive encapsulation efficiency of nearly 90 ± 3.5%. This formulation exhibited heightened cytotoxicity against BT-20 and MCF-10 cell lines compared to the extract alone, indicating its potential as a drug carrier with prolonged release characteristics. Additionally, the Nio/Extract demonstrated superior antibacterial effects against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Candida albicans compared to the free extract, showcasing MIC values of 211, 147, and 187 ug/mL, respectively, versus 880, 920, and 960 ug/mL for the pathogens. These findings highlight the potential of niosomal nano-carriers housing P. atlantica extract as a viable therapeutic strategy for combating both malignancies and microbial infections.
Microbial Diversity and Community Structure of Wastewater-Driven Microalgal Biofilms
Authors: Blifernez-Klassen Olga , Hassa Julia , Reinecke Diana L. , Busche Tobias , Klassen Viktor , Kruse Olaf
Published: December 2023

Dwindling water sources increase the need for efficient wastewater treatment. Solar-driven algal turf scrubber (ATS) system may remediate wastewater by supporting the development and growth of periphytic microbiomes that function and interact in a highly dynamic manner through symbiotic interactions. Using ITS and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, we profiled the microbial communities of four microbial biofilms from ATS systems operated with municipal wastewater (mWW), diluted cattle and pig manure (CattleM and PigM), and biogas plant effluent supernatant (BGE) in comparison to the initial inocula and the respective wastewater substrates. The wastewater-driven biofilms differed significantly in their biodiversity and structure, exhibiting an inocula-independent but substrate-dependent establishment of the microbial communities. The prokaryotic communities were comparable among themselves and with other microbiomes of aquatic environments and were dominated by metabolically flexible prokaryotes such as nitrifiers, polyphosphate-accumulating and algicide-producing microorganisms, and anoxygenic photoautotrophs. Striking differences occurred in eukaryotic communities: While the mWW biofilm was characterized by high biodiversity and many filamentous (benthic) microalgae, the agricultural wastewater-fed biofilms consisted of less diverse communities with few benthic taxa mainly inhabited by unicellular chlorophytes and saprophytes/parasites. This study advances our understanding of the microbiome structure and function within the ATS-based wastewater treatment process.
Development and Validation of a Highly Sensitive Multiplex Immunoassay for SARS-CoV-2 Humoral Response Monitorization: A Study of the Antibody Response in COVID-19 Patients with Different Clinical Profiles during the First and Second Waves in Cadiz, Spain
Authors: Olvera-Collantes Lucia , Moares Noelia , Fernandez-Cisnal Ricardo , Muñoz-Miranda Juan P. , Gonzalez-Garcia Pablo , Gabucio Antonio , Freyre-Carrillo Carolina , Jordan-Chaves Juan de Dios , Trujillo-Soto Teresa , Rodriguez-Martinez Maria P. , Martin-Rubio Maria I. , Escuer Eva , Rodriguez-Iglesias Manuel , Fernandez-Ponce Cecilia , Garcia-Cozar Francisco
Published: December 2023

There is still a long way ahead regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, since emerging waves remain a daunting challenge to the healthcare system. For this reason, the development of new preventive tools and therapeutic strategies to deal with the disease have been necessary, among which serological assays have played a key role in the control of COVID-19 outbreaks and vaccine development. Here, we have developed and evaluated an immunoassay capable of simultaneously detecting multiple IgG antibodies against different SARS-CoV-2 antigens through the use of Bio-PlexTM technology. Additionally, we have analyzed the antibody response in COVID-19 patients with different clinical profiles in Cadiz, Spain. The multiplex immunoassay presented is a high-throughput and robust immune response monitoring tool capable of concurrently detecting anti-S1, anti-NC and anti-RBD IgG antibodies in serum with a very high sensitivity (94.34–97.96%) and specificity (91.84–100%). Therefore, the immunoassay proposed herein may be a useful monitoring tool for individual humoral immunity against SARS-CoV-2, as well as for epidemiological surveillance. In addition, we show the values of antibodies against multiple SARS-CoV-2 antigens and their correlation with the different clinical profiles of unvaccinated COVID-19 patients in Cadiz, Spain, during the first and second waves of the pandemic.
Temporal Profiling of Host Proteome against Different M. tuberculosis Strains Reveals Delayed Epigenetic Orchestration
Authors: Babele Prabhakar , Midha Mukul K. , Rao Kanury V. S. , Kumar Ajay
Published: December 2023

Apart from being preventable and treatable, tuberculosis is the deadliest bacterial disease afflicting humankind owing to its ability to evade host defence responses, many of which are controlled by epigenetic mechanisms. Here, we report the temporal dynamics of the proteome of macrophage-like host cells after infecting them for 6, 18, 30, and 42 h with two laboratory strains (H37Ra and H37Rv) and two clinical strains (BND433 and JAL2287) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Using SWATH-MS, the proteins characterized at the onset of infection broadly represented oxidative stress and cell cytoskeleton processes. Intermediary and later stages of infection are accompanied by a reshaping of the combination of proteins implicated in histone stability, gene expression, and protein trafficking. This study provides strain-specific and time-specific variations in the proteome of the host, which might further the development of host-directed therapeutics and diagnostic tools against the pathogen. Also, our findings accentuate the importance of proteomic tools in delineating the complex recalibration of the host defence enabled as an effect of MTB infection. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive proteomic account of the host response to avirulent and virulent strains of MTB at different time periods of the life span of macrophage-like cells. The mass spectrometry proteomics data have been deposited in the ProteomeXchange Consortium via the PRIDE repository with the dataset identifier PXD022352.
Differences in Bacterial Co-Occurrence Networks and Ecological Niches at the Surface Sediments and Bottom Seawater in the Haima Cold Seep
Authors: Zhong Song , Feng Jingchun , Kong Jie , Huang Yongji , Chen Xiao , Zhang Si
Published: December 2023

Cold seeps are highly productive chemosynthetic ecosystems in the deep-sea environment. Although microbial communities affected by methane seepage have been extensively studied in sediments and seawater, there is a lack of investigation of prokaryotic communities at the surface sediments and bottom seawater. We revealed the effect of methane seepage on co-occurrence networks and ecological niches of prokaryotic communities at the surface sediments and bottom seawater in the Haima cold seep. The results showed that methane seepage could cause the migration of Mn and Ba from the surface sediments to the overlying seawater, altering the elemental distribution at seepage sites (IS) compared with non-seepage sites (NS). Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that methane seepage led to closer distances of bacterial communities between surface sediments and bottom seawater. Co-occurrence networks indicated that methane seepage led to more complex interconnections at the surface sediments and bottom seawater. In summary, methane seepage caused bacterial communities in the surface sediments and bottom seawater to become more abundant and structurally complex. This study provides a comprehensive comparison of microbial profiles at the surface sediments and bottom seawater of cold seeps in the South China Sea (SCS), illustrating the impact of seepage on bacterial community dynamics.
Comparison and Three-Dimensional Fluorescence Spectrum Analysis of Activated Sludge Treatment with Fenton and UV-Fenton
Authors: Wang Jiamei , Chai Tian , Chen Xin
Published: December 2023

This study investigated the effects of single Fenton and Fenton and UV combined processes on the cracking degree of anaerobic sludge under the same conditions. The optimal experimental conditions were obtained by repeated determination of Fe2+ dosage, H2O2 dosage and reaction time, so as to achieve the maximum cracking of sludge. In addition, this study applied three-dimensional fluorescence spectrum analysis technology to analyze the organic matter leached from the treated sludge, and different regions of the three-dimensional fluorescence spectra were analyzed and compared for each treatment condition. Repeated experiments showed that the optimal conditions for Fenton are a pH of 3, reaction time of 40 min, 1.4 g/L of Fe2+ and 9 g/L of H2O2. The Fenton process cracking yielded a protein concentration of 0.66 mg/L and sCOD of 5489 mg/L, and the UV-Fenton pretreatment yielded a protein concentration of 0.74 mg/L and sCOD of 5856 mg/L. The sludge particle size was reduced from the original 54.52 mm to 40.30 mm and 36.37 mm, respectively. In addition to these parameters, it was also demonstrated that the Fenton process has a strong cracking effect on sludge by indicators such as the SEM and sludge water content and that UV irradiation can play a role in assisting and helping sludge cracking.
Microevolution and Its Impact on Hypervirulence, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Vaccine Escape in Neisseria meningitidis
Authors: Mikucki August , Kahler Charlene M.
Published: December 2023

Neisseria meningitidis is commensal of the human pharynx and occasionally invades the host, causing the life-threatening illness invasive meningococcal disease. The meningococcus is a highly diverse and adaptable organism thanks to natural competence, a propensity for recombination, and a highly repetitive genome. These mechanisms together result in a high level of antigenic variation to invade diverse human hosts and evade their innate and adaptive immune responses. This review explores the ways in which this diversity contributes to the evolutionary history and population structure of the meningococcus, with a particular focus on microevolution. It examines studies on meningococcal microevolution in the context of within-host evolution and persistent carriage; microevolution in the context of meningococcal outbreaks and epidemics; and the potential of microevolution to contribute to antimicrobial resistance and vaccine escape. A persistent theme is the idea that the process of microevolution contributes to the development of new hyperinvasive meningococcal variants. As such, microevolution in this species has significant potential to drive future public health threats in the form of hypervirulent, antibiotic-resistant, vaccine-escape variants. The implications of this on current vaccination strategies are explored.
Effect of Pulsed Electric Field Technology on the Composition and Bioactive Compounds of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Dried with Convective and Infrared–Convective Methods
Authors: Bogusz Radosław , Bryś Joanna , Onopiuk Anna , Rybak Katarzyna , Witrowa-Rajchert Dorota , Nowacka Małgorzata
Published: December 2023

In recent years, an increasing interest has been shown in alternative food sources. Many studies are focused on the use of insects. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the chemical and thermal properties of black soldier fly larvae influenced by the pulsed electric field (PEF) and convective (CD) or infrared–convective (IR-CD) drying techniques. Examinations of the basic chemical composition, properties of extracted fat (fatty acid composition, acid and peroxide values, and oxidative stability), total polyphenol content, antioxidant activity, allergen content, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were performed. Generally, the results showed that dried black soldier fly larvae are a good source of protein and fat, up to 33% and 44%, respectively. The fat extracted from the dried insects consisted mainly of saturated fatty acids (above 75%), in particular lauric acid (C12:0). A good oxidative stability of the fat was also observed, especially from samples dried with the IR-CD method. The convective drying technique allowed for better preservation of protein content compared to samples dried with the IR-CD method. Nevertheless, samples treated with PEF were characterized by significantly lower protein content. The samples after PEF pretreatment, with an intensity of 20 and 40 kJ/kg and dried with the IR-CD method, were represented by a significantly higher total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity. Furthermore, in most cases, the convectively dried samples were characterized by a higher allergen content, both crustaceans and mollusks. Taking into account all of the investigated properties, it can be stated that the samples without treatment and those that were PEF-treated with an intensity of 40 kJ/kg and dried with the infrared–convective method (IR-CD) were the most rewarding from the nutritional point of view.
Paeoniflorin Alleviates Cisplatin-Induced Diminished Ovarian Reserve by Restoring the Function of Ovarian Granulosa Cells via Activating FSHR/cAMP/PKA/CREB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wu Qingchang , Chen Miao , Li Yao , Zhao Xiangyun , Fan Cailian , Dai Yi
Published: December 2023

Paeoniflorin (PAE) is the main active compound of Radix Paeoniae Rubra (a valuable traditional Chinese medicine and a dietary supplement) and exerts beneficial effects on female reproductive function. However, the actions of PAE on diminished ovarian reserve (DOR, a very common ovarian function disorder) are still unclear. Herein, our study investigated the effect and potential mechanism of PAE on DOR by using cisplatin-induced DOR mice and functional impairment of estradiol (E2) synthesis of ovarian granulosa-like KGN cells. Our data show that PAE improved the estrous cycle, ovarian index, and serum hormones levels, including E2, and the number of antral follicles and corpora lutea in DOR mice. Further mechanism results reveal that PAE promoted aromatase expression (the key rate-limiting enzyme for E2 synthesis) and upregulated the FSHR/cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway in the ovaries. Subsequently, PAE improved the levels of E2 and aromatase and activated the FSHR/cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway in KGN cells, while these improving actions were inhibited by the siRNA-FSHR and FSHR antagonist treatments. In sum, PAE restored the function of E2 synthesis in ovarian granulosa cells to improve DOR by activating the FSHR/cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway, which exhibited a new clue for the development of effective therapeutic agents for the treatment of DOR.
Optimization of Ethanol Extraction Technology for Yujin Powder Using Response Surface Methodology with a Box–Behnken Design Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process–Criteria Importance through Intercriteria Correlation Weight Analysis and Its Safety Evaluation
Authors: Jiang Lidong , Zhang Wangdong , Zhao Wenbo , Cai Yanzi , Qin Xue , Wang Baoshan , Xue Jiao , Wen Yanqiao , Wei Yanming , Hua Yongli , Yao Wanling
Published: December 2023

Here, we aimed to optimize the ethanol extraction technology for Yujin powder (YJP) and evaluate its safety. The ultrasonic-assisted ethanol reflux extraction method refluxing was used to extract YJP. The parameters were optimized through a combination of single-factor and response surface methodology (RSM). The comprehensive Y value score calculated using the content of 13 active ingredients in YJP ethanolic extracts (YEEs) and the yield of the dry extract were used as measuring criteria. RSM with a Box–Behnken design using three factors and three levels was adopted to optimize the ethanol extraction technology for YJP. Finally, acute and subchronic toxicity tests were performed to evaluate its safety. The results revealed the best technological parameters: a liquid–material ratio of 24:1, an ethanol concentration of 69%, assistance of ultrasound (40 °C, 50 kHZ, 30 min), reflux time of 53 min, and reflux temperature of 50 °C. In acute toxicity tests, the maximum administration dosage in mice was 28.21 g/kg, which is higher than 10 times the clinical dosage. Adverse effects in the acute and subchronic toxicity tests were not observed. All clinical indexes were normal. In conclusion, the RSM based on AHP–CRITIC weight analysis could be used to optimize the ethanol extraction technology for YJP and YEEs prepared under the above conditions and ensure high safety.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid Receptor-Mediated Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 Loaded Doxorubicin as a Nanotherapeutic System for Liver Cancer Treatment
Authors: Mi Xiao , Lou Yang , Wang Yutian , Dong Mingran , Xue Hongwei , Li Shuyang , Lu Juan , Chen Xi
Published: December 2023

In this study, we designed and developed a DOX nanodrug delivery system (PEG-GA@ZIF-8@DOX) using ZIF-8 as the carrier and glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) as the targeting ligand. We confirmed that DOX was loaded and PEG-GA was successfully modified on the surface of the nanoparticles. The in vitro release profile of the system was investigated at pH 5.0 and 7.4. The cellular uptake, in vitro cytotoxicity, and lysosomal escape characteristics were examined using HepG2 cells. We established an H22 tumor-bearing mouse model and evaluated the in vivo antitumor activity. The results showed that the system had a uniform nanomorphology. The drug loading capacity was 11.22 ± 0.87%. In acidic conditions (pH 5.0), the final release rate of DOX was 57.73%, while at pH 7.4, it was 25.12%. GA-mediated targeting facilitated the uptake of DOX by the HepG2 cells. PEG-GA@ZIF-8@DOX could escape from the lysosomes and release the drug in the cytoplasm, thus exerting its antitumor effect. When the in vivo efficacy was analyzed, we found that the tumor inhibition rate of PEG-GA@ZIF-8@DOX was 67.64%; it also alleviated the loss of the body weight of the treated mice. This drug delivery system significantly enhanced the antitumor effect of doxorubicin in vitro and in vivo, while mitigating its toxic side effects.
Synthesis of Mixed Chitin Esters via Acylation of Chitin in Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Egi Yusuke , Kadokawa Jun-ichi
Published: December 2023

The development of efficient derivatization methods of chitin, such as acylation, has been identified to confer new properties and functions to chitin. In this study, we investigate the synthesis of mixed chitin esters via the acylation of chitin in deep eutectic solvents (DESs) comprising 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolum chloride and 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidine based on a previous study that reported the development of efficient acylation of chitin in the DES to obtain single chitin esters. A stearoyl group was selected as the first substituent, which was combined with several bulky acyl and long oleoyl groups as the second substituents. After dissolution of chitin in the DES (2 wt%), the acylation reactions were conducted using stearoyl and the desired acyl chlorides for 1 h + 24 h at 100 °C in the resulting solutions. The IR and 1H NMR spectra of the isolated products confirmed the structures of mixed chitin esters with two different substituents. The substituent ratios in the derivatives, which were estimated via the 1H NMR analysis, were changed according to the feed ratios of two acyl chlorides.
Mediterranean Shrub Species as a Source of Biomolecules against Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Chaves Natividad , Nogales Laura , Montero-Fernández Ismael , Blanco-Salas José , Alías Juan Carlos
Published: December 2023

Neurodegenerative diseases are associated with oxidative stress, due to an imbalance in the oxidation-reduction reactions at the cellular level. Various treatments are available to treat these diseases, although they often do not cure them and have many adverse effects. Therefore, it is necessary to find complementary and/or alternative drugs that replace current treatments with fewer side effects. It has been demonstrated that natural products derived from plants, specifically phenolic compounds, have a great capacity to suppress oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals thus, they may be used as alternative alternative pharmacological treatments for pathological conditions associated with an increase in oxidative stress. The plant species that dominate the Mediterranean ecosystems are characterized by having a wide variety of phenolic compound content. Therefore, these species might be important sources of neuroprotective biomolecules. To evaluate this potential, 24 typical plant species of the Mediterranean ecosystems were selected, identifying the most important compounds present in them. This set of plant species provides a total of 403 different compounds. Of these compounds, 35.7% are phenolic acids and 55.6% are flavonoids. The most relevant of these compounds are gallic, vanillic, caffeic, chlorogenic, p-coumaric, and ferulic acids, apigenin, kaempferol, myricitrin, quercetin, isoquercetin, quercetrin, rutin, catechin and epicatechin, which are widely distributed among the analyzed plant species (in over 10 species) and which have been involved in the literature in the prevention of different neurodegenerative pathologies. It is also important to mention that three of these plant species, Pistacea lentiscus, Lavandula stoechas and Thymus vulgaris, have most of the described compounds with protective properties against neurodegenerative diseases. The present work shows that the plant species that dominate the studied geographic area can provide an important source of phenolic compounds for the pharmacological and biotechnological industry to prepare extracts or isolated compounds for therapy against neurodegenerative diseases.
Upgrading Pyrolytic Residue from End-of-Life Tires to Efficient Heterogeneous Catalysts for the Conversion of Glycerol to Acetins
Authors: Malaika Anna , Kowalska-Kuś Jolanta , Końska Klaudia , Ptaszyńska Karolina , Jankowska Aldona , Held Agnieszka , Wróblewski Krzysztof , Kozłowski Mieczysław
Published: December 2023

Recovered carbon blacks (rCBs) produced from end-of-life tires using pyrolysis were transformed into solid acid catalysts for the synthesis of acetins, i.e., products with a wide spectrum of practical applications. Tuning the chemical properties of the surface of samples and introducing specific functional groups on the rCBs were achieved through carbon functionalization with concentrated H2SO4. The initial and modified rCBs were thoroughly characterized using techniques such as elemental analysis, potentiometric back titration, thermogravimetric technique, scanning and transmission microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, etc. The catalytic activities of the samples were measured via batch mode glycerol acetylation performed at 110 °C and compared to the catalytic performance of the functionalized commercial carbon black. The modified rCBs were found to show a significant catalytic effect in the tested reaction, giving high glycerol conversions (above 95%) and satisfactory combined yields of diacetins and triacetin (~72%) within 4 h; this behavior was attributed to the presence of -SO3H moieties on the surface of functionalized rCBs. The reusability tests indicated that the modified samples were catalytically stable in subsequent acetylation runs. The obtained results evidenced the feasibility of using end-of-life tires for the production of effective acid catalysts for glycerol valorization processes.
Quercetin: A Potential Polydynamic Drug
Authors: Georgiou Nikitas , Kakava Margarita Georgia , Routsi Efthymios Alexandros , Petsas Errikos , Stavridis Nikolaos , Freris Christoforos , Zoupanou Nikoletta , Moschovou Kalliopi , Kiriakidi Sofia , Mavromoustakos Thomas
Published: December 2023

The study of natural products as potential drug leads has gained tremendous research interest. Quercetin is one of those natural products. It belongs to the family of flavonoids and, more specifically, flavonols. This review summarizes the beneficial pharmaceutical effects of quercetin, such as its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which are some of the quercetin effects described in this review. Nevertheless, quercetin shows poor bioavailability and low solubility. For this reason, its encapsulation in macromolecules increases its bioavailability and therefore pharmaceutical efficiency. In this review, a brief description of the different forms of encapsulation of quercetin are described, and new ones are proposed. The beneficial effects of applying new pharmaceutical forms of nanotechnology are outlined.
Dapoxetine, a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor, Suppresses Zika Virus Infection In Vitro
Authors: Zhang Bingzhi , Yu Jianchen , Zhu Ge , Huang Yun , Zhang Kexin , Xiao Xuhan , He Wenxuan , Yuan Jie , Gao Xiaoxia
Published: December 2023

Zika virus (ZIKV) belongs to the Flavivirus genus of the Flaviviridae family, and is a pathogen posing a significant threat to human health. Currently, there is a lack of internationally approved antiviral drugs for the treatment of ZIKV infection, and symptomatic management remains the primary clinical approach. Consequently, the exploration of safe and effective anti-ZIKV drugs has emerged as a paramount imperative in ZIKV control efforts. In this study, we performed a screening of a compound library consisting of 1789 FDA-approved drugs to identify potential agents with anti-ZIKV activity. We have identified dapoxetine, an orally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly employed for the clinical management of premature ejaculation (PE), as a potential inhibitor of ZIKV RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). Consequently, we conducted surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis to validate the specific binding of dapoxetine to ZIKV RdRp, and further evaluated its inhibitory effect on ZIKV RdRp synthesis using the ZIKV Gluc reporter gene assay. Furthermore, we substantiated the efficacy of dapoxetine in suppressing intracellular replication of ZIKV, thereby demonstrating a concentration-dependent antiviral effect (EC50 values ranging from 4.20 μM to 12.6 μM) and negligible cytotoxicity (CC50 > 50 μM) across diverse cell lines. Moreover, cell fluorescence staining and Western blotting assays revealed that dapoxetine effectively reduced the expression of ZIKV proteins. Collectively, our findings suggest that dapoxetine exhibits anti-ZIKV effects by inhibiting ZIKV RdRp activity, positioning it as a potential candidate for clinical therapeutic intervention against ZIKV infection.
Effect of Linear Energy Transfer on Cystamine’s Radioprotective Activity: A Study Using the Fricke Dosimeter with 6–500 MeV per Nucleon Carbon Ions—Implication for Carbon Ion Hadrontherapy
Authors: Penabeï Samafou , Sepulveda Esteban , Zakaria Abdullah Muhammad , Meesungnoen Jintana , Jay-Gerin Jean-Paul
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: Radioprotective agents have garnered considerable interest due to their prospective applications in radiotherapy, public health medicine, and situations of large-scale accidental radiation exposure or impending radiological emergencies. Cystamine, an organic diamino–disulfide compound, is recognized for its radiation-protective and antioxidant properties. This study aims to utilize the aqueous ferrous sulfate (Fricke) dosimeter to measure the free-radical scavenging capabilities of cystamine during irradiation by fast carbon ions. This analysis spans an energy range from 6 to 500 MeV per nucleon, which correlates with “linear energy transfer” (LET) values ranging from approximately 248 keV/μm down to 9.3 keV/μm. (2) Methods: Monte Carlo track chemistry calculations were used to simulate the radiation-induced chemistry of aerated Fricke–cystamine solutions across a broad spectrum of cystamine concentrations, ranging from 10−6 to 1 M. (3) Results: In irradiated Fricke solutions containing cystamine, cystamine is observed to hinder the oxidation of Fe2+ ions, an effect triggered by oxidizing agents from the radiolysis of acidic water, resulting in reduced Fe3+ ion production. Our simulations, conducted both with and without accounting for the multiple ionization of water, confirm cystamine’s ability to capture free radicals, highlighting its strong antioxidant properties. Aligning with prior research, our simulations also indicate that the protective and antioxidant efficiency of cystamine diminishes with increasing LET of the radiation. This result can be attributed to the changes in the geometry of the track structures when transitioning from lower to higher LETs. (4) Conclusions: If we can apply these fundamental research findings to biological systems at a physiological pH, the use of cystamine alongside carbon-ion hadrontherapy could present a promising approach to further improve the therapeutic ratio in cancer treatments.
Accelerating Kinetics with Time-Reversal Path Sampling
Authors: Liu Zhirong
Published: December 2023

In comparison to numerous enhanced sampling methods for equilibrium thermodynamics, accelerating simulations for kinetics and nonequilibrium statistics are relatively rare and less effective. Here, we derive a time-reversal path sampling (tRPS) method based on time reversibility to accelerate simulations for determining the transition rates between free-energy basins. It converts the difficult uphill path sampling into an easy downhill problem. This method is easy to implement, i.e., forward and backward shooting simulations with opposite initial velocities are conducted from random initial conformations within a transition-state region until they reach the basin minima, which are then assembled to give the distribution of transition paths efficiently. The effects of tRPS are demonstrated using a comparison with direct simulations of protein folding and unfolding, where tRPS is shown to give results consistent with direct simulations and increase the efficiency by up to five orders of magnitude. This approach is generally applicable to stochastic processes with microscopic reversibility, regardless of whether the variables are continuous or discrete.
Recent Progress on Green New Phase Extraction and Preparation of Polyphenols in Edible Oil
Authors: Liang Feng , Li Xue , Zhang Yu , Wu Yi , Bai Kaiwen , Agusti Romero , Soleimani Ali , Wang Wei , Yi Shumin
Published: December 2023

With the proposal of replacing toxic solvents with non-toxic solvents in the concept of green chemistry, the development and utilization of new green extraction techniques have become a research hotspot. Phenolic compounds in edible oils have good antioxidant activity, but due to their low content and complex matrix, it is difficult to achieve a high extraction rate in a green and efficient way. This paper reviews the current research status of novel extraction materials in solid-phase extraction, including carbon nanotubes, graphene and metal–organic frameworks, as well as the application of green chemical materials in liquid-phase extraction, including deep eutectic solvents, ionic liquids, supercritical fluids and supramolecular solvents. The aim is to provide a more specific reference for realizing the green and efficient extraction of polyphenolic compounds from edible oils, as well as another possibility for the future research trend of green extraction technology.
Nitric Oxide in the Field: Prevalence and Use of Nitrates by Dietitians and Nutritionists in Spanish Elite Soccer
Authors: Sebastiá-Rico Jaime , Cabeza-Melendre Daniel , Anderson Liam , Martínez-Sanz José Miguel
Published: December 2023

Soccer players make frequent use of dietary supplements to improve performance. One of the most widely used strategies to optimize performance is to increase the bioavailability of nitric oxide through nitrates, as it could delay fatigue during physical exertion, among other benefits. This may be positive for performance in soccer, although there is almost no research in professional soccer. The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of nitrates and behaviours related to their consumption in Spanish elite soccer clubs. Dietitian–nutritionist representatives from 45 teams from the most important Spanish soccer leagues completed an online survey to determine if, when, how and why nitrates are prescribed to soccer players. Of the total sample, 55.6% indicated providing nitrates, always before matches, but only 36% in training. There was a wide variation and lack of consistency in the timing, dosage and form of administration of nitrates. The use of mouthwashes or the protocol of chronic nitrate intake was not taken into account in most cases. The present study indicates a lack of interpretation between scientific knowledge and its application in practice, highlighting the need for future research to better understand how to optimize the use of nitrates in professional soccer.
4-Hydroxy-2-pyrones: Synthesis, Natural Products, and Application
Authors: Fedin Vladislav V. , Obydennov Dmitrii L. , Usachev Sergei A. , Sosnovskikh Vyacheslav Y.
Published: December 2023

4-Hydroxy-2-pyrones are of interest as potential biorenewable molecules for a sustainable transition from biomass feedstock to valuable chemical products. This review focuses on the methodologies for the synthesis of 4-hydroxy-2-pyrones published over the last 20 years. These pyrones as polyketides are widespread in Nature and possess versatile bioactivity that makes them an attractive target for synthesis and modification. Biosynthetic paths of the pyrones are actively developed and used as biotechnological approaches for the construction of natural and unnatural polysubstituted 4-hydroxy-2-pyrones. The major synthetical methods are biomimetic and are based on the cyclization of tricarbonyl compounds. Novel chemical methods of de novo synthesis based on alkyne cyclizations using transition metal complexes and ketene transformations allow for straightforward access to 4-hydroxy-2-pyrones and have been applied for the construction of natural products. Possible directions for further pyrone ring modification are discussed.
Screening Children in India: Translation and Psychometric Evaluation of the Parents’ Evaluation of Developmental Status and the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire
Authors: Sheel Hina , Suárez Lidia , Marsh Nigel V.
Published: December 2023

Timely screening and surveillance of children for developmental delay and social–emotional learning difficulties are essential in Low- and Middle-Income Countries like India. Screening measures like the Parents’ Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) and Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) are considered suitable for India due to their low cost, easy accessibility, and no training requirement for administration. However, India lacks validated screening measures, and the PEDS and SDQ have yet to be validated for children in India. The study aimed to translate the PEDS and SDQ from English to Hindi and psychometrically evaluate the same measures on children aged 4–8 years in India. The original PEDS and SDQ forms and their translations were pilot tested on 55 participants and evaluated using data from 407 children with typical development (TD) and 59 children with developmental disability (DD). Parents and teachers reported no meaningful discrepancy between the original and translated (Hindi) questionnaires. Internal consistency for the PEDS was acceptable, but unacceptable for most subscales on the SDQ, for both TD and DD samples. Test–retest reliability was poor for the PEDS but adequate for the SDQ. Results from known-group validity testing showed that the PEDS scores could be used to distinguish between the TD and DD samples. The results from this study provide further support for the use of the PEDS and SDQ in developing countries like India.
A Novel Handrub Tablet Loaded with Pre- and Post-Biotic Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Combining Virucidal Activity and Maintenance of the Skin Barrier and Microbiome
Authors: Machado Ana Carolina Henriques Ribeiro , Marinheiro Laís Júlio , Benson Heather Ann Elizabeth , Grice Jeffrey Ernest , Martins Tereza da Silva , Lan Alexandra , Lopes Patricia Santos , Andreo-Filho Newton , Leite-Silva Vania Rodrigues
Published: December 2023

Objective: This study aimed to develop a holobiont tablet with rapid dispersibility to provide regulation of the microbiota, virucidal activity, and skin barrier protection. Methods: A 23 factorial experiment was planned to define the best formulation for the development of the base tablet, using average weight, hardness, dimensions, swelling rate, and disintegration time as parameters to be analyzed. To produce holobiont tablets, the chosen base formulation was fabricated by direct compression of prebiotics, postbiotics, and excipients. The tablets also incorporated solid lipid nanoparticles containing postbiotics that were obtained by high-pressure homogenization and freeze-drying. The in vitro virucidal activity against alpha-coronavirus particles (CCoV-VR809) was determined in VERO cell culture. In vitro analysis, using monolayer cells and human equivalent skin, was performed by rRTq-PCR to determine the expression of interleukins 1, 6, 8, and 17, aquaporin-3, involucrin, filaggrin, FoxO3, and SIRT-1. Antioxidant activity and collagen-1 synthesis were also performed in fibroblast cells. Metagenomic analysis of the skin microbiome was determined in vivo before and after application of the holobiont tablet, during one week of continuous use, and compared to the use of alcohol gel. Samples were analyzed by sequencing the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Results: A handrub tablet with rapid dispersibility was developed for topical use and rinse off. After being defined as safe, the virucidal activity was found to be equal to or greater than that of 70% alcohol, with a reduction in interleukins and maintenance or improvement of skin barrier gene markers, in addition to the reestablishment of the skin microbiota after use. Conclusions: The holobiont tablets were able to improve the genetic markers related to the skin barrier and also its microbiota, thereby being more favorable for use as a hand sanitizer than 70% alcohol.
Picosecond Pulse Tapered Fiber Amplifier Operated near 1030 nm with Peak Power up to 1 MW
Authors: Mikhailov Egor K. , Bobkov Konstantin K. , Levchenko Andrey E. , Velmiskin Vladimir V. , Khudyakov Dmitry V. , Aleshkina Svetlana S. , Zaushitsyna Tatiana S. , Bubnov Mikhail M. , Lipatov Denis S. , Likhachev Mikhail E.
Published: December 2023

We demonstrated an optimization of a picosecond fiber amplifier based on Yb-doped tapered fiber in a spectral range of 1030 nm. Nonlinear effects limiting peak power scaling (stimulated Raman scattering and four-wave mixing) were studied and factors affecting their threshold were established, such as gain, diameter profile along the length of taper, output mode field diameter, and numerical aperture of a pump. By determining the optimal amplification regime and manufacturing advanced tapered fibers, we amplified 13 ps pulses to a record-high peak power of 1 MW at a wavelength of 1029 nm directly at the output of the fiber at an average power of 13.8 W. Four-wave mixing was the limiting factor, and the total fraction of deleterious components in the output spectrum was ~2%. The quality of the output beam was close to being diffraction limited (M2 < 1.2).
NaYF4: Yb,Er Upconversion Nanoparticles for Imaging: Effect on Red Blood Cells
Authors: Doronkina Anna A. , Kochubey Vyacheslav I. , Maksutova Anastasia V. , Pravdin Alexander B. , Mylnikov Artem M. , Navolokin Nikita A. , Yanina Irina Yu.
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) are a promising tool for biological tissue structure visualization and photodynamic therapy (PDT). The luminescence of such NPs is excited in the spectrum’s near-infrared (NIR) region, while the NPs luminesce in the visible region. Conjugating such NPs with photodynamic dyes that absorb their luminescence makes it possible to increase the depth at which PDT is performed. (2) Methods: We conducted a comprehensive study on the possibility of using NaYF4:Er:Yb UCNPs in vivo for imaging and PDT. The NPs were synthesized by a hydrothermal method. The synthesis of NPs with a size of 80 nm and hexagonal structure was demonstrated. (3) Results: The accumulation of NPs in organs after their intravenous injection into rats was studied. The effect of NPs on the shape, size, and degree of aggregation of red blood cells (RBC) was also investigated. (4) Conclusions: The possibility of luminescent visualization of NPs in histological sections and their subcutaneous distribution is demonstrated. All investigated particles showed moderate toxicity, causing mostly reversible changes.