bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regio- and Stereoselective One-Pot Synthesis of New Heterocyclic Compounds with Two Selenium Atoms Based on 2-Bromomethyl-1,3-thiaselenole Using Phase Transfer Catalysis
Authors: Amosova Svetlana V. , Filippov Andrey S. , Potapov Vladimir A. , Albanov Alexander I.
Published: October 2022

To date, not a single representative of 2,3-dihydro-1,4-thiaselenin-2-yl selenides has been described in the literature. The reaction of 2-bromomethyl-1,3-thiaselenole with potassium selenocyanate at low temperature was accompanied by a rearrangement with ring expansion leading to six-membered 2,3-dihydro-1,4-thiaselenin-2-yl selenocyanate, which was used for the generation of sodium dihydro-1,4-thiaselenin-2-yl selenolate. The latter intermediate was involved in situ in the nucleophilic substitution and addition reactions under phase transfer catalysis conditions. The nucleophilic substitution reactions with alkyl halides gave alkyl, allyl and propargyl 2,3-dihydro-1,4-thiaselenin-2-yl selenides in 93–98% yields. The addition reactions of dihydro-1,4-thiaselenin-2-yl selenolate anion to alkyl acrylates, acrylonitrile and alkyl propiolates proceeded in a regio- and stereoselective fashion affording corresponding functionalized 2,3-dihydro-1,4-thiaselenin-2-yl selenides in 93–98% yields. Thus, the regio- and stereoselective one-pot synthesis of a novel family of 2,3-dihydro-1,4-thiaselenin-2-yl selenides has been developed based 2-bromomethyl-1,3-thiaselenole, potassium selenocyanate, alkyl halides and compound with activated double and triple bonds.
Photo-Charging a Zinc-Air Battery Using a Nb2O5-CdS Photoelectrode
Authors: Andrade Tatiana S. , Neto Antero R. S. , Nogueira Francisco G. E. , Oliveira Luiz C. A. , Pereira Márcio C. , Lianos Panagiotis
Published: October 2022

Integrating a photoelectrode into a zinc-air battery is a promising approach to reducing the overpotential required for charging a metal-air battery by using solar energy. In this work, a photo-fuel cell employing a Nb2O5/CdS photoanode and a Zn foil as a counter-electrode worked as a photoelectrochemical battery that saves up to 1.4 V for battery charging. This is the first time a Nb2O5-based photoelectrode is reported as a photoanode in a metal-air battery, and the achieved gain is one of the top results reported so far. Furthermore, the cell consumed an organic fuel, supporting the idea of using biomass wastes as a power source for sunlight-assisted charging of metal-air batteries. Thus, this device provides additional environmental benefits and contributes to technologies integrating solar energy conversion and storage.
Hydrothermal Modification of TS-1 Zeolites with Organic Amines and Salts to Construct Highly Selective Catalysts for Cyclopentene Epoxidation
Authors: Chang Xin-Yu , Sun Yu-Ting , Song Xiao-Jing , Yang Xiao-Tong , Wu Yu-Qing , Jia Ming-Jun
Published: October 2022

Developing efficient heterogeneous catalysts for cyclic olefins epoxidation is highly attractive for meeting the growing need for various cyclic epoxides. Herein, hierarchical TS-1 zeolite with relatively abundant mesopores and less amount of surface hydroxyl groups was obtained by hydrothermal modification of an as-synthesized TS-1 zeolite with a mixed solution of ammonia, tetrapropylammonium bromide (TPABr) and KCl. The post-modified TS-1 zeolite exhibited much higher catalytic activity (52% conversion) and epoxide selectivity (98%) for the epoxidation of cyclopentene than the conventional TS-1 zeolites. The excellent catalytic activity of the hierarchical TS-1 could be mainly assigned to the enhancement of the mass transport ability and the accessibility of the active Ti species, while the improvement of epoxidation selectivity may be mainly related to the introduction of a certain amount of K+ that can effectively modulate the coordination environment of Ti species as well as the polarity of the zeolite. This work demonstrated that a highly active and selective catalyst for the H2O2-mediated cyclopentene epoxidation could be obtained by concurrently generating mesopore and extinguishing the unfavorable defective hydroxyl groups through the simple hydrothermal treatment of the conventional TS-1 zeolite with a mixed base/salt solution.
Surface Reconstruction of Cobalt-Based Polyoxometalate and CNT Fiber Composite for Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Tariq Irsa , Asghar Muhammad Adeel , Ali Abid , Badshah Amin , Abbas Syed Mustansar , Iqbal Waheed , Zubair Muhammad , Haider Ali , Zaman Shahid
Published: October 2022

Polyoxometalates (POMs), as carbon-free metal-oxo-clusters with unique structural properties, are emerging water-splitting electrocatalysts. Herein, we explore the development of cobalt-containing polyoxometalate immobilized over the carbon nanotube fiber (CNTF) (Co4POM@CNTF) towards efficient electrochemical oxygen evolution reaction (OER). CNTF serves as an excellent electron mediator and highly conductive support, while the self-activation of the part of Co4POM through restructuring in basic media generates cobalt oxides and/or hydroxides that serve as catalytic sites for OER. A modified electrode fabricated through the drop-casting method followed by thermal treatment showed higher OER activity and enhanced stability in alkaline media. Furthermore, advanced physical characterization and electrochemical results demonstrate efficient charge transfer kinetics and high OER performance in terms of low overpotential, small Tafel slope, and good stability over an extended reaction time. The significantly high activity and stability achieved can be ascribed to the efficient electron transfer and highly electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) of the self-activated electrocatalyst immobilized over the highly conductive CNTF. This research is expected to pave the way for developing POM-based electrocatalysts for oxygen electrocatalysis.
Nickel Nanoparticles Decorated on Glucose-Derived Carbon Spheres as a Novel, Non-Palladium Catalyst for Epoxidation of Olefin
Authors: Alhumaimess Mosaed S.
Published: October 2022

Carbon spheres supporting nickel nanoparticles (NPs), generated by the integration of hydrothermal and microwave irradiation techniques, catalyzed the epoxidation of 1-octene, cyclooctene, styrene, allyl alcohol, and cyclohexene. The average particle sizes of the carbon spheres (CSs) and nickel oxide species immobilized on the CSs were 240 nm and 26 nm, respectively. The fabricated composites incorporating nickel NPs showed higher activity in the cyclohexene epoxidation process. The cyclohexene conversion was enhanced by raising the Ni loading to 10%. Within 14 h, the cyclohexene conversion had grown to 98%. This robust catalytic activity can be attributed to the efficient distribution of Ni species on the CSs, the facile lowering of the surface, and the development of uniformly nanosized species. The composite exhibited good recyclability across at least five cycles (which is not a simple task involving nickel-nanoparticle-based catalysts that are employed in water), and no nickel species leached into the solution, making the total system environmentally benign and cost-effective.
Efficient Removal of Eriochrome Black T (EBT) Dye and Chromium (Cr) by Hydrotalcite-Derived Mg-Ca-Al Mixed Metal Oxide Composite
Authors: Chatla Anjaneyulu , Almanassra Ismail W. , Kochkodan Viktor , Laoui Tahar , Alawadhi Hussain , Atieh Muataz Ali
Published: October 2022

Eriochrome Black T (EBT) and chromium (Cr) are considered to be potential pollutants due to their toxicity and severe impact on the environment. In the current study, hydrotalcite-derived Mg-Ca-Al-LDO mixed metal oxide composite was prepared using a conventional co-precipitation method and explored in terms of the removal of Cr and EBT dye from aqueous solution in a batch mode adsorption process. The prepared Mg-Ca-Al-LDH, Mg-Ca-Al-LDO and spent Mg-Ca-Al-LDO adsorbents were characterized to propose the adsorption mechanism. Different adsorption parameters were examined, such as adsorbent dosage, initial concentration, pH, reaction temperature and contact time. The EBT adsorption kinetic results matched strongly with the pseudo-second-order model for both Cr (R2 = 0.991) and EBT (R2 = 0.999). The Langmuir isotherm model exhibited a maximum adsorption capacity of 65.5 mg/g and 150.3 mg/g for Cr and EBT, respectively. The structure and morphology results obtained after Cr and EBT dye adsorption reveal that the adsorption mechanism is associated with electrostatic interactions and surface complexation of Cr and EBT dye with Mg-Ca-Al-LDO surface functional groups. Moreover, more than 84% of the initial adsorption capacity of EBT and Cr can be achieved on the Mg-Ca-Al-LDO surface after five adsorption/desorption cycles. Finally, the Mg-Ca-Al-LDO mixed metal oxide composite can be potentially used as a cost-effective adsorbent for wastewater treatment processes.
Reduced Graphene Oxide–Metal Oxide Nanocomposites (ZrO2 and Y2O3): Fabrication and Characterization for the Photocatalytic Degradation of Picric Acid
Authors: Usharani Balasubramanian , Murugadoss Govindhasamy , Rajesh Kumar Manavalan , Gouse Peera Shaik , Manivannan Varadharajan
Published: October 2022

Herein, reduced graphene-oxide-supported ZrO2 and Y2O3 (rGO-ZrO2 and rGO-Y2O3) nanocomposites were synthesized by hydrothermal method and used as the catalysts for photodegradation of picric acid. The structural and morphological properties of the synthesized samples were characterized by using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy dispersive absorption X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), UV-Vis spectrophotometer, Raman spectrophotometer and Fourier transformation infrared spectrophotometer (FT-IR) techniques. In this work, the wide band gap of the ZrO2 and Y2O3 was successfully reduced by addition of the reduced graphene oxide (rGO) to absorb visible light for photocatalytic application. The performance of as synthesized rGO-ZrO2 and rGO-Y2O3 nanocomposites in the photocatalytic degradation of picric acid were evaluated under UV light irradiation. The photodegradation study using picric acid was analyzed with different energy light sources UV (254, 365 and 395 nm), visible light and sunlight at different pH conditions (pH = 3, 7 and 10). The photocatalytic activity of rGO-ZrO2 and rGO-Y2O3 nanocomposites showed excellent photocatalytic activity under optimum identical conditions with mild variations in pH 3. Compared to rGO-Y2O3, the rGO-ZrO2 nanocomposite showed a better action, with a degradation percentage rate of 100, 99.3, 99.9, 100 and 100% for light conditions of UV-252, 365, 395, visible and sunlight, respectively. The excellent degradation efficiency is attributed to factors such as oxygen-deficient metal oxide phase, high surface area and creation of a greater number of hydroxyl groups.
Wastewater Purification and All-Solid Z-Scheme Heterojunction ZnO-C/MnO2 Preparation: Properties and Mechanism
Authors: Zhao Lei , Yu Tingting , Yang Bing , Guo Huilin , Liu Lifen , Zhang Jinlong , Gao Changfei , Yang Tao , Wang Mingyan , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2022

Unlike many studies on the preparation of Z-scheme heterojunctions by doping precious metals, in this paper we first prepared a core-shell material obtained by C doping in ZnO and then composite with MnO2 to form a heterojunction; that is, a low-cost and highly catalytic ternary composite catalyst was prepared by a simple hydrothermal reaction. Meanwhile, a large amount of experimental data have enabled the heterostructure type as well as the mechanism of photocatalytic performance to be fully demonstrated. It is proven that C as an intermediate medium achieves electron transport while making up the deficiency of ZnO, and constitutes an all-solid state Z-scheme heterojunction, which enables the rapid transfer of photogenerated electron pairs and visible light irradiation to the stream to improve the photocatalytic performance of the composite photocatalyst. In terms of examination of degradation performance, this catalyst showed a high photodegradation rate of tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) of 92.6% within 60 min, and the surface ZnO-C/MnO2 catalysts also showed good degradation effect on practical petrochemical wastewater in CODcr degradation experiments.
Nuclear Proteomics of Induced Leukemia Cell Differentiation
Authors: Novikova Svetlana , Tolstova Tatiana , Kurbatov Leonid , Farafonova Tatiana , Tikhonova Olga , Soloveva Natalia , Rusanov Alexander , Archakov Alexander , Zgoda Victor
Published: October 2022

Studies of induced granulocytic differentiation help to reveal molecular mechanisms of cell maturation. The nuclear proteome represents a rich source of regulatory molecules, including transcription factors (TFs). It is important to have an understanding of molecular perturbations at the early stages of the differentiation processes. By applying the proteomic quantitative profiling using isobaric labeling, we found that the contents of 214, 319, 376, 426, and 391 proteins were altered at 3, 6, 9, 12, and 72 h, respectively, compared to 0 h in the HL-60 cell nuclear fraction under all-trans-retinoid acid (ATRA) treatment. From 1860 identified nuclear proteins, 231 proteins were annotated as proteins with transcription factor (TF) activity. Six TFs (RREB1, SRCAP, CCDC124, TRIM24, BRD7, and BUD31) were downregulated and three TFs EWSR1, ENO1, and FUS were upregulated at early time points (3–12 h) after ATRA treatment. Bioinformatic annotation indicates involvement of the HL-60 nuclear proteome in DNA damage recognition in the RUNX1-triggered pathway, and in the p53-regulation pathway. By applying scheduled multiple reaction monitoring using stable isotopically labeled peptide standards (MRM/SIS), we found a persistent increase in the content of the following proteins: PRAM1, CEPBP, RBPJ, and HIC1 in the HL-60 cell nuclear fraction during ATRA-induced granulocytic differentiation. In the case of STAT1, CASP3, PARP1, and PRKDC proteins, a transient increase in their content was observed at early time points (3–12 h) after the ATRA treatment. Obtained data on nuclear proteome composition and dynamics during granulocytic differentiation could be beneficial for the development of new treatment approaches for leukemias with the mutated p53 gene.
To Fix or Not to Fix: Maintenance of Chromosome Ends Versus Repair of DNA Double-Strand Breaks
Authors: Casari Erika , Gnugnoli Marco , Rinaldi Carlo , Pizzul Paolo , Colombo Chiara Vittoria , Bonetti Diego , Longhese Maria Pia
Published: October 2022

Early work by Muller and McClintock discovered that the physical ends of linear chromosomes, named telomeres, possess an inherent ability to escape unwarranted fusions. Since then, extensive research has shown that this special feature relies on specialized proteins and structural properties that confer identity to the chromosome ends, thus allowing cells to distinguish them from intrachromosomal DNA double-strand breaks. Due to the inability of conventional DNA replication to fully replicate the chromosome ends and the downregulation of telomerase in most somatic human tissues, telomeres shorten as cells divide and lose this protective capacity. Telomere attrition causes the activation of the DNA damage checkpoint that leads to a cell-cycle arrest and the entering of cells into a nondividing state, called replicative senescence, that acts as a barrier against tumorigenesis. However, downregulation of the checkpoint overcomes this barrier and leads to further genomic instability that, if coupled with re-stabilization of telomeres, can drive tumorigenesis. This review focuses on the key experiments that have been performed in the model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae to uncover the mechanisms that protect the chromosome ends from eliciting a DNA damage response, the conservation of these pathways in mammals, as well as the consequences of their loss in human cancer.
Reduction in SOCE and Associated Aggregation in Platelets from Mice with Platelet-Specific Deletion of Orai1
Authors: Yang Linlin , Ottenheijm Roger , Worley Paul , Freichel Marc , Camacho Londoño Juan E.
Published: October 2022

Calcium signalling in platelets through store operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) or receptor-operated Ca2+ entry (ROCE) mechanisms is crucial for platelet activation and function. Orai1 proteins have been implicated in platelet’s SOCE. In this study we evaluated the contribution of Orai1 proteins to these processes using washed platelets from adult mice from both genders with platelet-specific deletion of the Orai1 gene (Orai1flox/flox; Pf4-Cre termed as Orai1Plt-KO) since mice with ubiquitous Orai1 deficiency show early lethality. Platelet aggregation as well as Ca2+ entry and release were measured in vitro following stimulation with collagen, collagen related peptide (CRP), thromboxane A2 analogue U46619, thrombin, ADP and the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) inhibitor thapsigargin, respectively. SOCE and aggregation induced by Thapsigargin up to a concentration of 0.3 µM was abrogated in Orai1-deficient platelets. Receptor-operated Ca2+-entry and/or platelet aggregation induced by CRP, U46619 or thrombin were partially affected by Orai1 deletion depending on the gender. In contrast, ADP-, collagen- and CRP-induced aggregation was comparable in Orai1Plt-KO platelets and control cells over the entire concentration range. Our results reinforce the indispensability of Orai1 proteins for SOCE in murine platelets, contribute to understand its role in agonist-dependent signalling and emphasize the importance to analyse platelets from both genders.
Autoantibody against Tumor-Associated Antigens as Diagnostic Biomarkers in Hispanic Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Ma Yangcheng , Qiu Cuipeng , Wang Bofei , Zhang Xiaojun , Wang Xiao , Aguilera Renato J. , Zhang Jian-Ying
Published: October 2022

Background: Tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) have been investigated for many years as potential early diagnosis tools, especially for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nonetheless, very few studies have focused on the Hispanic HCC group that may be associated with distinct etiological risk factors. In the present study, we investigated novel anti-TAA autoantibodies as diagnostic biomarkers for Hispanic HCC patients. Methods: Novel TAA targets were identified by the serological proteome analysis (SERPA) and from differentially expressed HCC driver genes via bioinformatics. The autoantibody levels were validated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Among 19 potential TAA targets, 4 anti-TAA autoantibodies were investigated as potential diagnostic biomarkers with significantly high levels in Hispanic HCC sera, including DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A), p16, Hear shock protein 60 (Hsp60), and Heat shock protein A5 (HSPA5). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) value of the single autoantibodies varies from 0.7505 to 0.8885. After combining all 4 autoantibodies, the sensitivity of the autoantibody panel increased to 75% compared to the single one with the highest value of 45.8%. In a separate analysis of the Asian cohort, autoantibodies against HSPA5 and p16 showed significantly elevated levels in HCC compared to normal healthy controls, but not for DNMT3A or HSP60. Conclusion: Anti-DNMT3A, p16, HSPA5, and HSP60 autoantibodies have the potential to be diagnostic biomarkers for Hispanic HCC patients, of which DNMT3A and HSP60 might be exclusive for Hispanic HCC diagnosis.
Boosting Neurogenesis in the Adult Hippocampus Using Antidepressants and Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Kot Marta , Neglur Pawan Kumar , Pietraszewska Anna , Buzanska Leonora
Published: October 2022

The hippocampus is one of the few privileged regions (neural stem cell niche) of the brain, where neural stem cells differentiate into new neurons throughout adulthood. However, dysregulation of hippocampal neurogenesis with aging, injury, depression and neurodegenerative disease leads to debilitating cognitive impacts. These debilitating symptoms deteriorate the quality of life in the afflicted individuals. Impaired hippocampal neurogenesis is especially difficult to rescue with increasing age and neurodegeneration. However, the potential to boost endogenous Wnt signaling by influencing pathway modulators such as receptors, agonists, and antagonists through drug and cell therapy-based interventions offers hope. Restoration and augmentation of hampered Wnt signaling to facilitate increased hippocampal neurogenesis would serve as an endogenous repair mechanism and contribute to hippocampal structural and functional plasticity. This review focuses on the possible interaction between neurogenesis and Wnt signaling under the control of antidepressants and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to overcome debilitating symptoms caused by age, diseases, or environmental factors such as stress. It will also address some current limitations hindering the direct extrapolation of research from animal models to human application, and the technical challenges associated with the MSCs and their cellular products as potential therapeutic solutions.
The Contribution of Lipotoxicity to Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Schelling Jeffrey R.
Published: October 2022

Lipotoxicity is a fundamental pathophysiologic mechanism in diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and is now increasingly recognized in diabetic kidney disease (DKD) pathogenesis. This review highlights lipotoxicity pathways in the podocyte and proximal tubule cell, which are arguably the two most critical sites in the nephron for DKD. The discussion focuses on membrane transporters and lipid droplets, which represent potential therapeutic targets, as well as current and developing pharmacologic approaches to reduce renal lipotoxicity.
Chromosomal Heteromorphisms and Cancer Susceptibility Revisited
Authors: Liehr Thomas
Published: October 2022

Chromosomal heteromorphisms (CHs) are a part of genetic variation in man. The past literature largely posited whether CHs could be correlated with the development of malignancies. While this possibility seemed closed by end of the 1990s, recent data have raised the question again on the potential influences of repetitive DNA elements, the main components of CHs, in cancer susceptibility. Such new evidence for a potential role of CHs in cancer can be found in the following observations: (i) amplification and/or epigenetic alterations of CHs are routinely reported in tumors; (ii) the expression of CH-derived RNA in embryonal and other cells under stress, including cancer cells; (iii) the expression of parts of CH-DNA as long noncoding RNAs; plus (iv) theories that suggest a possible application of the “two-hit model” for euchromatic copy number variants (CNVs). Herein, these points are discussed in detail, which leads to the conclusion that CHs are by far not given sufficient consideration in routine cytogenetic analysis, e.g., leukemias and lymphomas, and need more attention in future research settings including solid tumors. This heightened focus may only be achieved by approaches other than standard sequencing or chromosomal microarrays, as these techniques are at a minimum impaired in their ability to detect, if not blind to, (highly) repetitive DNA sequences.
Ex Vivo Integration of Human Stem Retinal Ganglion Cells into the Mouse Retina
Authors: Croteau Louis-Philippe , Risner Michael L. , Wareham Lauren K. , McGrady Nolan R. , Chamling Xitiz , Zack Donald J. , Calkins David J.
Published: October 2022

Cell replacement therapies may be key in achieving functional recovery in neurodegenerative optic neuropathies diseases such as glaucoma. One strategy that holds promise in this regard is the use of human embryonic stem cell and induced pluripotent stem-derived retinal ganglion cells (hRGCs). Previous hRGC transplantation studies have shown modest success. This is in part due to the low survival and integration of the transplanted cells in the host retina. The field is further challenged by mixed assays and outcome measurements that probe and determine transplantation success. Thefore, we have devised a transplantation assay involving hRGCs and mouse retina explants that bypasses physical barriers imposed by retinal membranes. We show that hRGC neurites and somas are capable of invading mouse explants with a subset of hRGC neurites being guided by mouse RGC axons. Neonatal mouse retina explants, and to a lesser extent, adult explants, promote hRGC integrity and neurite outgrowth. Using this assay, we tested whether suppmenting cultures with brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the adenylate cyclase activator, forskolin, enhances hRGC neurite integration, neurite outgrowth, and integrity. We show that supplementing cultures with a combination BDNF and forskolin strongly favors hRGC integrity, increasing neurite outgrowth and complexity as well as the invasion of mouse explants. The transplantation assay presented here is a practical tool for investigating strategies for testing and optimizing the integration of donor cells into host tissues.
An Evaluation of the Novel Biological Properties of Diterpenes Isolated from Plectranthus ornatus Codd. In Vitro and In Silico
Authors: Sitarek Przemysław , Kowalczyk Tomasz , Synowiec Ewelina , Merecz-Sadowska Anna , Bangay Gabrielle , Princiotto Salvatore , Śliwiński Tomasz , Rijo Patricia
Published: October 2022

Plectranthus ornatus Codd, the genus Plectranthus of the Lamiaceae family, has been used as traditional medicine in Africa, India and Australia. Pharmacological studies show the use of this plant to treat digestive problems. In turn, leaves were used for their antibiotic properties in some regions of Brazil to treat skin infections. The present study examines the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of the halimane and labdane diterpenes (11R*,13E)-11-acetoxyhalima-5,13-dien-15-oic acid (HAL) and 1α,6β-diacetoxy-8α,13R*-epoxy-14-labden-11-one (PLEC) and the forskolin-like 1:1 mixture of 1,6-di-O-acetylforskolin and 1,6-di-O-acetyl-9-deoxyforskolin (MRC) isolated from P. ornatus on lung (A549) and leukemia (CCRF-CEM) cancer cell lines, and on normal human retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE-19) cell line in vitro. Additionally, molecular docking and computational approaches were used. ADMET properties were analysed through SwissADME and proTox-II—Prediction. The results indicate that all tested compounds significantly reduced the viability of the cancer cells and demonstrated no cytotoxic effects against the non-neoplastic cell line. The apoptosis indicators showed increased ROS levels for both the tested A549 and CCRF-CEM cancer cell lines after treatment. Furthermore, computational studies found HAL to exhibit moderate antioxidant activity. In addition, selected compounds changed mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and increased DNA damage and mitochondrial copy number for the CCRF-CEM cancer cell line; they also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects on the ARPE-19 normal cell line upon lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment, which was associated with the modulation of IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α and GM-CSF genes expression. Docking studies gave indication about the lowest binding energy for 1,6-di-O-acetylforskolin docked into IL-6, TNF-α and GM-CSF, and 1,6-di-O-acetyl-9-deoxyforskolin docked into IL-8. The ADMET studies showed drug-likeness properties for the studied compounds. Thus, halimane and labdane diterpenes isolated from P. ornatus appear to offer biological potential; however, further research is necessary to understand their interactions and beneficial properties.
Correction: He et al. Intranasal Administration of Agomir-let-7i Improves Cognitive Function in Mice with Traumatic Brain Injury. Cells 2022, 11, 1348
Authors: He Xuan-Cheng , Wang Jian , Du Hong-Zhen , Liu Chang-Mei , Teng Zhao-Qian
Published: October 2022

The authors wish to make the following changes to their paper [...]
The NeuroinflammatoryPotential of HIV-1 NefVariants in Modulating the Gene Expression Profile of Astrocytes
Authors: Jadhav Sushama , Makar Prajakta , Nema Vijay
Published: October 2022

HIV-1 mediated neurotoxicity is thought to be associated with HIV-1 viral proteins activating astrocytes and microglia by inducing inflammatory cytokines leading to the development of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND). In the current study, we observe how HIV-1 Nef upregulates the levels of IL-6, IP-10, and TNF-α around 6.0fold in normal human astrocytes (NHAs) compared to cell and empty vector controls. Moderate downregulation in the expression profile of inflammatory cytokines was observed due to RNA interference. Furthermore, we determine the impact of inflammatory cytokines in the upregulation of kynurenine pathway metabolites, such as indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase (HAAO) in NHA, and found the same to be 3.0- and 3.2-fold, respectively. Additionally, the variation in the level of nitric oxide before and after RNA interference was significant. The upregulated cytokines and pathway-specific metabolites could be linked with the neurotoxic potential of HIV-1 Nef. Thus, the downregulation in cytokines and kynurenine metabolites observed after siRNA-Nef interference indicates the possibility of combining the RNA interference approach with current antiretroviral therapy to prevent neurotoxicity development.
Parental Misperceptions of Their Offspring’s Weight and Their Strategies for Child’s Eating Behavior: A Narrative Review of the Recent Evidence
Authors: Gketsios Ioannis , Foscolou Alexandra , Vassilakou Tonia , Panagiotakos Demosthenes , Kosti Rena
Published: October 2022

The aim of the present review was to explore the effect of parental misperceptions of their offspring’s weight status during childhood and early adolescence on weight control strategies and children’s eating behavior. Literature searching was limited to the PubMed database and to the English language from January 2000 to August 2022. Eligible studies had clearly associated parental misperception of offspring’s weight with child eating habits or weight management and eating strategies in childhood to early adolescence. Sixteen studies (14 cross-sectional, 1 longitudinal and 1 with cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses) were included in the analysis. Weight loss attempts and child’s eating behavior were the main outcomes. Sixteen studies found significant associations. Parental misperceptions of their offspring’s weight status do influence their child’s weight and eating behavior, especially in overweight children. Parents tend to follow potentially harmful methods when they overestimate their children’s weight (food restriction) and when they underestimate their children’s weight (pressure to eat). However, additional longitudinal studies are needed to better understand the impact of parental weight status perception on health behaviors and children’s weight gain over time. The potential need for preventive intervention studies is warranted.
Beneficial Effects of RNS60 in Cardiac Ischemic Injury
Authors: Zabielska-Kaczorowska Magdalena A. , Wierzbicka Barbara , Kalmes Andreas , Slominska Ewa M. , Yacoub Magdi H. , Smolenski Ryszard T.
Published: October 2022

RNS60 is a physically modified saline solution hypothesized to contain oxygen nanobubbles. It has been reported to reduce ischemia/reperfusion injury in a pig model of acute myocardial infarction. We investigated the effects of RNS60 during cardiac hypoxia in mice and as an additive to cardioplegic solution in rat hearts. ApoE−/−LDLr−/− mice were treated by intravenous injection of RNS60 or saline as a control while monitoring the ECG and post-hypoxic serum release of troponin T and creatine kinase activity. Hearts infused with Custodiol containing 10% RNS60 or saline as the control were subjected to 4 h of 4 °C preservation, followed by an assessment of myocardial metabolites, purine release, and mechanical function. RNS60 attenuated changes in the ECG STU area during hypoxia, while the troponin T concentration and creatine kinase activity were significantly higher in the serum of the controls. During reperfusion after 4 h of cold ischemia, the Custodiol/RNS60-treated hearts had about 30% lower LVEDP and better dp/dtmax and dp/dtmin together with a decreased release of purine catabolites vs. the controls. The myocardial ATP, total adenine nucleotides, and phosphocreatine concentrations were higher in the RNS60-treated hearts. This study indicates that RNS60 enhances cardioprotection in experimental myocardial hypoxia and under conditions of cardioplegic arrest. Improved cardiac energetics are involved in the protective effect, but complete elucidation of the mechanism requires further study.
Novel Strategies for Cancer Combat: Drug Combination Using Repurposed Drugs Induces Synergistic Growth Inhibition of MCF-7 Breast and HT-29 Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Duarte Diana , Guerreiro Inês , Vale Nuno
Published: October 2022

Our group developed a new model of drug combination consisting of the use of antineoplastic drugs and different repurposed drugs, having demonstrated that antimalarial and central nervous system (CNS) drugs have a promising anticancer profile as standalone agents, as well as in combined regimens. Here, we evaluated the anticancer profiles of two different CNS drugs (edaravone and quetiapine), both alone and in combination with antineoplastic agents for breast and colon cancer, to explore whether these repurposed drugs could synergistically enhance the anticancer potential of chemotherapeutic drugs. We also developed a new model of combination using two repurposed drugs, to explore whether this model of combination could also be suitable for application in breast and colon cancer therapy. MCF-7 and HT-29 cancer cells were incubated for 48 h with each individual drug (0.01–100 µM) to determine their IC50. Cells were then treated with the IC50 value for doxorubicin or paclitaxel (MCF-7) or 5-fluorouracil (HT-29) and combined with increasing concentrations of edaravone or quetiapine for 48 h. Both cell lines were also treated with a combination of two antimalarial drugs (mefloquine and pyronaridine) or two CNS drugs (fluphenazine and sertraline) for 48 h. We found that the use of quetiapine in combined therapies seems to synergistically enhance the anticancer activity of doxorubicin for the management of breast cancer. Both CNS drugs significantly improved the cytotoxic potential of 5-fluorouracil in HT-29 cells, with quetiapine synergistically interacting with the antineoplastic drug in this drug combination. Regarding the combination of repurposed drugs, only found one synergic combination regimen (sertraline IC50 plus variable concentrations of fluphenazine) with anticancer potential against HT-29 colon cancer cells was found. Taken together, these results suggest that quetiapine and edaravone can be used as adjuvant agents in chemotherapy for colon cancer. It was also found that the combination of repurposed drugs, specifically the CNS drugs sertraline and fluphenazine, may have an interesting profile for application in colon cancer novel therapies.
Effect of Radium-223 on the Gut Microbiota of Prostate Cancer Patients: A Pilot Case Series Study
Authors: Fernandes Ana , Oliveira Ana , Guedes Carla , Fernandes Rúben , Soares Raquel , Barata Pedro
Published: October 2022

Radium-223 (Ra-223) is a targeted nuclear medicine therapy for castration-resistant prostate cancer with bone metastases. Its major route of elimination is the intestine. There is overwhelming evidence that the gut microbiota is altered by ionizing radiation (IR) from radiotherapy treatments. Nevertheless, it is known that extrapolation of outcomes from radiotherapy to nuclear medicine is not straightforward. The purpose of this study was to prospectively determine the effect of Ra-223 on selected important bacteria from the gut microbiota. Stool samples from three prostate cancer patients and two healthy individuals were obtained, processed, and analysed. We specifically measured the relative change of the abundance of important bacteria, determined by the 2−ΔΔC method. We found that Ra-223 influenced the gut microbiota composition. The most relevant changes were increases of Proteobacteria and Atopobacter; and decreases of Bacteroidetes, Prevotella, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Clostridium coccoides, and Bacteroides fragilis. Additionally, our experiment confirms that the composition of gut microbiota from prostate cancer patients is altered. No significant correlation was found between each subject’s gut microbiome profile and their clinical indices. Despite its limited sample, the results of this pilot study suggest that ionizing radiation from Ra-223 alters the gut microbiota composition and that the gut microbiota of prostate cancer patients has an increase of the bacteria with known prejudicial effects and a decrease of the ones with favorable effects.
Cost–Benefit Analysis of Kaposvár Solar Photovoltaic Park Considering Agrivoltaic Systems
Authors: Chalgynbayeva Aidana , Mizik Tamás , Bai Attila
Published: October 2022

In the context of the global energy crisis and crucial issues on food, the development and utilization of agrivoltaic (APV) systems could be a way to solve both the energy shortage and agricultural production at the same time and in the same area. As a combination of photovoltaics (PV) and agriculture, agrivoltaics has broad prospects for the future agricultural development of Hungary. Since especially large-scale PV systems can be considered as a potential basis of APV systems, the Kaposvár Solar Power Plant Project in Hungary was analyzed in this study. Two comparative analyses were used: between APV and PV systems, and between APV and apple plantation. An economic model has been developed. The baseline scenario shows that APV systems in current technological and economic conditions are not competitive with PV systems and are also less attractive for agricultural farmers, due to the long return period of the surplus investment cost. By analyzing uncertain factors and seeking possible solutions, the authors’ recommendations for the development, subsidy system and technology might be useful for both farmers and for decision makers to promote APV systems in the future.
Spatiotemporal Variation of Tourism Climate Index for Türkiye during 1981–2020
Authors: Efe Bahtiyar , Gözet Edanur , Özgür Evren , Lupo Anthony R. , Deniz Ali
Published: October 2022

Tourism activities are highly dependent on climatological conditions. The climatological suitability of tourism destinations is investigated by using a Tourism Climate Index (TCI) that is frequently used by researchers. The TCI varies between 0 and 100 and is created by using temperature, relative humidity, sunshine duration, wind and precipitation data. For TCI, 100 is for ideal and 0 is for extremely unfavorable conditions for tourism. In this study, the meteorological data covering the period of 1981–2020 for 98 stations is used to calculate the TCI of each station for all seasons and months. The Mann-Kendall trend test is used for TCI behavior of the entire country and Sen Innovative Trend Analysis method is used for four famous tourism destinations. For summer, coastal regions have smaller TCI values than inland regions due to the high amount of relative humidity. Most stations have TCI values in the “Very Good” category or better. In spring and autumn, the TCI values fall into the “Acceptable” category or better. The winter is the season with smallest TCI values. For summer, 54 of 98 stations have a decreasing trend at different levels of significance and four of them have an increasing trend. In autumn, 30 stations have an increasing trend and two stations have a decreasing trend at standard levels of significance. Similarly, for spring, 20 stations have an increasing trend and one has a decreasing trend. During winter, 14 stations have an increasing trend while one has decreasing trend. The Sen Innovative Trend test shows an increasing trend on average for four famous tourism destinations during May–September months.
Abundance, Distribution and Association of Paphiopedilum fairrieanum (Lindl.) Stein with Site Factors in Brongshing, Samdrup Jongkhar District
Authors: Wangchuk Kezang , Dorji Ugyen
Published: October 2022

The long-lived and attractive flower of Paphiopedilum fairrieanum (Lindl.) Stein has made it one of the most commercialized flowers in the world, and its distribution is restricted to small areas. Thus, it was listed as a critically endangered orchid species by the IUCN in 2015. Therefore, the aim of this study was to generate information on the abundance and distribution of Paphiopedilum fairrieanum and assess the relationship between the abundance and distribution of Paphiopedilum fairrieanum with site factors in the study area. A systematic sampling method was followed for the data collection, with a 200 m distance between the plots. A total of 34 sample plots with 5.64 m radii were established. In total, 1004 individuals of orchid species were recorded. The abundance and distribution of the Paphiopedilum fairrieanum showed statistically significant associations with the elevation (r = −0.350, p = 0.042), slope (r = 0.666, p = 0.000), precipitation (r = −0.630, p = 0.000) and temperature (r = 0.371, p = 0.031). A southeast aspect was found to have the highest number of Paphiopedilum fairrieanum, and a northwest aspect had the least. The findings of this study would help researchers to find suitable sites and the distribution of Paphiopedilum fairrieanum in unexplored areas.
Diversity, Phylogenetic Relationships and Distribution of Marsh Frogs (the Pelophylax ridibundus complex) from Kazakhstan and Northwest China
Authors: Ualiyeva Daniya , Ermakov Oleg A. , Litvinchuk Spartak N. , Guo Xianguang , Ivanov Alexander Yu. , Xu Rui , Li Jun , Xu Feng , Arifulova Irina I. , Kaptyonkina Alyona G. , Khromov Victor A. , Krainyuk Vladimir N. , Sarzhanov Fakhriddin , Dujsebayeva Tatjana N.
Published: October 2022

In order to study the diversity, phylogenetic relationships and distribution of marsh frogs of the Pelophylax ridibundus complex in Kazakhstan and northwest China, we conducted phylogeographic analyses of 125 samples from 53 localities using the mtDNA ND2 and COI genes and the SAI nuclear gene sequences. Phylogenetic inference of mtDNA revealed three main lineages—sister lineages Balkhash and Syrdarya (as the Central Asian P. sp. novum), and the Anatolian P. cf. bedriagae, while from nDNA data, we additionally detected the western form, P. ridibundus. According to mtDNA data, the mean genetic distances between P. sp. novum and two other forms of marsh frogs was more than 5%. Genetic homogeneity within populations of the Syrdarya lineage and P. cf. bedriagae is characterized by low nucleotide diversity and high haplotype diversity. Demographic analyses of the lineages showed past population expansions of the Balkhash and the Syrdarya forms. Divergence from the most recent ancestor had occurred in the Early Pleistocene period (2.46 Mya) for the Balkhash and the Syrdarya lineages, and 1.27 Mya for the P. cf. bedriagae. Our findings provide a first investigation of the lineage diversification and population dynamics of the Central Asian marsh frogs and will be useful for further taxonomic implications and conservational actions.
Experimental Data on Solubility of the Two Calcium Sulfates Gypsum and Anhydrite in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Taherdangkoo Reza , Tian Miaomiao , Sadighi Ali , Meng Tao , Yang Huichen , Butscher Christoph
Published: October 2022

Calcium sulfate exists in three forms, namely dihydrate or gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O), anhydrite (CaSO4), and hemihydrate or bassanite (CaSO4·0.5H2O) depending on temperature, pressure, pH, and formation conditions. The formation of calcium sulfates occurs widely in nature and in many engineering settings. Herein, a dataset containing the experimental solubility data of calcium sulfate minerals, i.e., gypsum and anhydrite, in aqueous solutions is presented. The compiled dataset contains calcium sulfates solubility values extracted from 42 papers published between 1906 and 2019. The dataset can be used for various scientific and engineering purposes such as environmental applications (e.g., gas treatment, wastewater treatment, and chemical disposal), geotechnical applications (e.g., clay-sulfate rock swelling), separation processes (e.g., crystallization, extractive distillation, and seawater desalination), and electrochemical processes (e.g., corrosion and electrolysis).
The Role of Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization in Pancreatobiliary Brushing Cytology: A Large Retrospective Review with Histologic Correlation
Authors: Khan Jaffar , la Sancha Carlo De , Saad Mohammed , Alkashash Ahmad , Ullah Asad , Alruwaii Fatimah , Velasquez Zarate Luis , Cramer Harvey M. , Wu Howard H.
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: Although the specificity of brush cytology for the detection of malignant pancreaticobiliary strictures is high, its sensitivity is low. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) can be used to detect chromosomal aneuploidy in biliary brushing specimens, and when used as an adjunct to routine cytology, it significantly improves diagnostic sensitivity. (2) Methods: We searched our laboratory information system to identify all bile duct brush cytology cases with follow-up surgical pathology between January 2001 and September 2019. Cytologic diagnoses were classified as negative, atypical, suspicious, or malignant. Correlated surgical pathological diagnoses were classified as benign or malignant. FISH test results were obtained for a subset of cytology cases with concurrent FISH testing, and the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value in identifying malignancy for cytology alone, FISH alone, and combined cytology and FISH were calculated. (3) Results: A total of 1017 brushing cytology cases with histologic correlation were identified. A total of 193 FISH tests were performed concurrently with cytological specimens. Malignant diagnoses were identified in 623 of 1017 patients, while 394 patients had benign strictures. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive, and negative predictive rate were 65%, 78%, 83%, and 49% for cytology alone; 72%, 67%, 63%, and 68% for FISH alone; and 85%, 42%, 60%, and 74% for combined cytology and FISH, respectively. Among FISH-positive cases, the risk of malignancy for polysomy was 82% and 32% for trisomy. (4) Conclusions: FISH improves the sensitivity and negative predictive rate of bile duct brush cytology. The combination of cytology and FISH has increased the sensitivity from 65% to 85% and the negative predictive rate from 49% to 74% when compared to cytology alone. A patient with a polysomy FISH result had a significantly higher risk of malignancy than a patient with a trisomy 7 result (82% vs. 32%, p < 0.00001).