bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Which Probiotic Is the Most Effective for Treating Acute Diarrhea in Children? A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Li Zengbin , Zhu Guixian , Li Chao , Lai Hao , Liu Xin , Zhang Lei
Published: December 2021

Acute diarrhea is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children under five. Probiotics are beneficial for treating acute diarrhea in children, but unclear which specific probiotic is the most effective. We performed a Bayesian network meta-analysis to examine the comparative effectiveness of probiotics. By searching EMBASE, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library up to 31 March 2021, randomized clinical trials (RCTs) on probiotics for treating acute diarrhea in children were included. Primary outcomes included the duration of diarrhea and diarrhea lasting ≥2 days, and secondary outcomes included the mean stool frequency on day 2 and duration of hospitalization, fever, and vomiting. We assessed the certainty of the evidence of outcomes according to Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) guideline. Eighty-four studies with twenty-one different interventions in 13,443 children were included. For the primary outcomes, moderate evidence indicated that, Lactobacillus reuteri [mean difference (MD) = −0.84 day; 95% confidence interval (CI), −1.39, −0.29], Bifidobacterium lactis (MD = −0.98 day; 95%CI, −1.82, −0.14), Saccharomyces boulardii (MD = −1.25 day; 95%CI, −1.59, −0.91), Lactobacillus species (spp.) plus Bifidobacterium spp. plus Saccharomyces spp. (MD = −1.19 day; 95%CI, −1.81, −0.58), and Bacillus spp. plus Enterococcus spp. plus Clostridium spp. (MD = −1.1 day; 95%CI, −1.84, −0.35) significantly reduced the duration of diarrhea when compared with placebo. Saccharomyces boulardii [Odds ratio (OR) = 0.22; 95%CI, 0.11, 0.41] and Lactobacillus reuteri (OR = 0.23; 95%CI, 0.090, 0.60) significantly reduced the risk of diarrhea lasting ≥2 days when compared with placebo or no treatment, with moderate evidence. Among all probiotics, Saccharomyces boulardii may be the most effective in reducing both duration of diarrhea (compared with placebo) and risk of diarrhea lasting ≥2 days (compared with placebo or no treatment), with moderate evidence. To be conclusive, Saccharomyces boulardii may be the most effective probiotic for treating acute diarrhea in children, followed by several other single-strain and multi-strain probiotics.
Destructive Role of COVID-19 Fear on Nurses Performance: Mediating Role of Stress
Authors: Yousaf Zahid , Nassani Abdelmohsen A. , Haffar Mohamed
Published: December 2021

Given its importance to psychological issues, the COVID-19 pandemic has created numerous challenges for all individuals, but healthcare professionals and particularly nursing staff are at front lines, and their performance is significantly affected. The current study relates COVID-19 fear with psychological strain, i.e., stress amongst the nursing staff. Moreover, the intervening role of COVID-19 stress between COVID-19 fear and the performance of the nursing staff has also been tested. An online survey was conducted to collect data from nurses. A total of 471 responses of nurses were received during the process of online data collection from 16 November 2020 to 30 April 2021. Results revealed the significant effect of COVID-19 fear on COVID-19 stress and the performance of nurses. Additionally, the results substantiate that COVID-19 stress mediates between COVID-19 fear and the health care performance of nurses. COVID-19 fear has become a psychological consequence that increases stress among nursing staffs. This study fills the research gap about the performance of the health care sectors, particularly with respect to COVID-19 fear and COVID-19 stress among nurses. Hence, COVID-19 fear plays a significant role in COVID-19 stress in terms of influencing the health care performance of nurses. Overall, the results give pragmatic insights for the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Antagonistic Strain Bacillus amyloliquefaciens XZ34-1 for Controlling Bipolaris sorokiniana and Promoting Growth in Wheat
Authors: Yi Yanjie , Shan Youtian , Liu Shifei , Yang Yanhui , Liu Yang , Yin Yanan , Hou Zhipeng , Luan Pengyu , Li Ruifang
Published: December 2021

Common root rot, caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana, is one of the most prevalent diseases of wheat and has led to major declines in wheat yield and quality worldwide. Here, strain XZ34-1 was isolated from soil and identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens based on the morphological, physiological, biochemical characteristics and 16S rDNA sequence. Culture filtrate (CF) of strain XZ34-1 showed a high inhibition rate against B.sorokiniana and had a broad antifungal spectrum. It also remarkably inhibited the mycelial growth and spore germination of B. sorokiniana. In pot control experiments, the incidence and disease index of common root rot in wheat seedlings were decreased after treatment with CF, and the biological control efficacy was significant, up to 78.24%. Further studies showed XZ34-1 could produce antifungal bioactive substances and had the potential of promoting plant growth. Lipopeptide genes detection with PCR indicated that strain XZ34-1 may produce lipopeptides. Furthermore, activities of defense-related enzymes were enhanced in wheat seedlings after inoculation with B.sorokiniana and treatment with CF, which showed induced resistance could be produced in wheat to resist pathogens. These results reveal that strain XZ34-1 is a promising candidate for application as a biological control agent against B.sorokiniana.
The Dynamics of Hepatic Fibrosis Related to Schistosomiasis and Its Risk Factors in a Cohort of China
Authors: Hu Fei , Xie Shu-Ying , Yuan Min , Li Yi-Feng , Li Zhao-Jun , Gao Zhu-Lu , Lan Wei-Ming , Liu Yue-Ming , Xu Jing , Lin Dan-Dan
Published: December 2021

China has had a long history against schistosomiasis japonica. The most serious prognosis of chronic schistosome infection is hepatic fibrosis, which develops into advanced schistosomiasis if the process is not effectively controlled. After a more than seven decades endeavor, China has gained remarkable achievements in schistosomiasis control and achieved transmission control nationwide (infection rate of schistosomes in residents and domestic animals both less than 1%) by 2015. However, new advanced schistosomiasis cases emerge annually in China, even in areas where the transmission of schistosomiasis had been interrupted. In the present study, the residents (>5 years old) in a schistosomiasis endemic village were examined for schistosomiasis every year during 1995–2019 by the modified Kato–Katz thick smear method and/or miracidium hatching technique. Residents who were identified to have an active infection method were treated with praziquantel at a dose of 40 mg/kg body weight. Ultrasonography was carried out to assess the liver morbidity related to schistosomiasis in 1995 and 2019, respectively. The prevalence of schistosomiasis among residents presented a downward trend annually, from 17.89% (175/978) in 1995 to 0 (0/475) in 2019. Among 292 residents who received ultrasound scan both in 1995 and 2019, 141 (48.29%) presented stable liver damage, while liver fibrosis was developed severely in 86 (29.45%) and reversed in 65 (22.26%) residents. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that anti-fibrosis treatment was the protective factor against schistosomiasis hepatic fibrosis. Males, residents aged 38 and above, fishermen, and people who did not receive anti-fibrosis treatment were groups with higher risk of liver fibrosis development. Our results revealed that although the infection rate of schistosome dropped significantly in endemic areas, liver fibrosis was still developing among some residents, even though they had received deworming treatment. Liver protection/anti-fibrosis treatment should be administered in endemic regions and regions with historically uncontrolled transmission to slow down the deterioration of hepatic fibrosis among patients in schistosomiasis endemic areas.
Bovine Brucellosis in Gauteng, South Africa: Seroprevalence amongst Cattle Handlers and Variables Associated with Seropositive Cattle Herds, 2014–2016
Authors: Govindasamy Krpasha , Thompson Peter N. , Harris Bernice N. , Rossouw Jennifer , Abernethy Darrell A. , Etter Eric M. C.
Published: December 2021

In South Africa, the prevalence of cattle handler exposure to Brucella on cattle farms is unknown and risk factors and cattle symptoms associated with infected cattle herds are unavailable. To address this gap, a case-control study of cattle herds was conducted in Gauteng province and farm workers and veterinary officials were tested for exposure to Brucella. Seroprevalence amongst farm workers exposed to case herds ranged from 4.0% (BrucellaCapt®) to 16.7% (IgG ELISA®), compared to those exposed to control herds, where seroprevalence ranged from 1.9% (BrucellaCapt®) to 5.7% (IgG ELISA®). Seroprevalence amongst veterinary officials was significantly greater compared to farm workers exposed to case herds for the outcome RBT+ IgM- IgG+ (OR = 11.1, 95% CI: 2.5–49.9, p = 0.002) and RBT- IgM- IgG+ (OR = 6.3, 95% CI: 2.3–17.3, p < 0.001). Risk factors associated with being an infected herd were: being a government-sponsored farm vs. private farm (OR 4.0; 95% CI: 1.4–11.3; p = 0.009), beef vs. dairy herd (OR 7.9; 95% CI: 1.4–44.9; p = 0.020), open vs. closed herd (OR 3.3; 95% CI: 1.1–10.4; p = 0.038) and the presence of antelope on the farm (OR 29.4; 95% CI: 4.0–218.2; p = 0.001). Abortions (OR = 5.1; 95% CI: 2.0–13.3; p < 0.001), weak calves in the herd (OR = 8.0; 95% CI: 2.6–24.4; p < 0.001), reduction in number of calves born (OR = 9.0; 95% CI: 2.1–43.6; p < 0.001), reduction in conception rate (OR = 3.9; 95% CI: 0.8–18.3; p = 0.046), hygromas in cattle (p = 0.011) and farmers reporting brucellosis-like symptoms in their farm workers or in him/herself (OR = 3.4; 95% CI: 1.3–8.7; p = 0.006) were more likely to be associated with Brucella infected herds than control herds. This evidence can be used in strategic planning to protect both human and herd health.
Clinical Parasitology and Parasitome Maps as Old and New Tools to Improve Clinical Microbiomics
Authors: Pane Stefania , Ristori Maria Vittoria , Gardini Simone , Russo Alessandra , Del Chierico Federica , Putignani Lorenza
Published: December 2021

A growing body of evidence shows that dysbiotic gut microbiota may correlate with a wide range of disorders; hence, the clinical use of microbiota maps and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) can be exploited in the clinic of some infectious diseases. Through direct or indirect ecological and functional competition, FMT may stimulate decolonization of pathogens or opportunistic pathogens, modulating immune response and colonic inflammation, and restoring intestinal homeostasis, which reduces host damage. Herein, we discuss how diagnostic parasitology may contribute to designing clinical metagenomic pipelines and FMT programs, especially in pediatric subjects. The consequences of more specialized diagnostics in the context of gut microbiota communities may improve the clinical parasitology and extend its applications to the prevention and treatment of several communicable and even noncommunicable disorders.
Potential Risk Factors Associated with Infection with Bovine Leukaemia Virus in Dairy and Beef Cattle in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Yi-Chen , Chin Wen-Yu , Chang Chao-Chin , Chuang Shih-Te , Hsu Wei-Li
Published: December 2021

Bovine leukaemia virus (BLV), which is classified as a Deltaretrovirus, is the aetiologic agent of enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL), a chronic lymphoproliferative disorder with a worldwide distribution. EBL is widespread in dairy herds and causes a direct economic impact due to reduced milk production and the early culling of BLV-infected cattle. The BLV infection status in Taiwan remains largely unknown; a high prevalence of BLV in dairy cows was recently revealed. The present study further investigated BLV infections in beef cattle. Surprisingly, the prevalence of BLV proviral DNA was as low as 11.8% (23/195), which is significantly lower than that noted in dairy cows, which was 42.5% (102/240) (p < 0.001). Factors associated with BLV infections were subsequently investigated. Due to the differences in herd management, an analysis of risk factors for a BLV infection was independently conducted in these two sectors. Several factors associated with a BLV infection were identified. Age was significantly associated with BLV infection status in dairy cows (p < 0.001) but not in beef cattle. A high prevalence of BLV was observed in cattle >15.5 months old (57.8%) compared with those ≤15.5 months old (11.4%). Moreover, after stratification analysis, based on the critical age of 15.5 months, as determined by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, a significantly higher BLV prevalence was demonstrated in lactating dairy cows, cattle undergoing bull breeding, heifers at older ages, and those undergoing routine rectal palpation. Due to the high prevalence of BLV in Taiwan, the development of an effective control program, based on the identified risk factors, is important for interrupting the routes of BLV transmission within herds.
Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccines: Point Prevalence Survey of Vaccine Hesitancy in an Irish Population
Authors: Marshall Sarah , Moore Anne C. , Sahm Laura J. , Fleming Aoife
Published: December 2021

Understanding parental attitudes to their children’s vaccination is critical to developing and implementing interventions that address parents’ hesitancy and improve vaccine uptake. The Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccines (PACV) survey is a validated tool for identifying vaccine hesitancy in parents. We evaluated the rate of vaccine hesitancy and areas of concern regarding childhood vaccinations using an adapted version of the PACV survey, in a convenience sample of parents attending a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) outreach event in Ireland, in 2018. A score ≥ 50 identified vaccine hesitant parents. Of 105 parents who completed the survey, the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy was 6.7%, (7/105). Parents had concerns around vaccine side effects (36.2%, n = 38), vaccine safety (20%, n = 21) and the number of vaccines administered (13.3%, n = 14). Parents trusted the vaccine information they received (85.6%, n = 90) and 81.9% (n = 86) believed that the vaccine schedule was good for their child. The findings indicate the presence of vaccine hesitancy in parents in Ireland regarding paediatric vaccines with further research necessary to address parents’ vaccine concerns. Future research should explore further, by qualitative methods, parents’ vaccine concerns. There is also potential to identify vaccine hesitant parents with the PACV survey as a surveillance method in healthcare settings; for example, in community pharmacies, family doctor clinics and out-patient clinics.
Geometric Models for Seed Shape Description and Quantification in the Cactaceae
Authors: Martín-Gómez José Javier , del Pozo Diego Gutiérrez , Tocino Ángel , Cervantes Emilio
Published: December 2021

Seed shape in species of the Cactaceae is described by comparison with geometric models. Three new groups of models are presented, two for symmetric seeds, and a third group for asymmetric seeds. The first two groups correspond, respectively, to superellipses and the combined equations of two semi-ellipses. The third group contains models derived from the representation of polar equations of Archimedean spirals that define the shape of asymmetric seeds in genera of different subfamilies. Some of the new models are geometric curves, while others are composed with a part resulting from the average silhouettes of seeds. The application of models to seed shape quantification permits the analysis of variation in seed populations, as well as the comparison of shape between species. The embryos of the Cactaceae are of the peripheral type, strongly curved and in contact with the inner surface of the seed coat. A relationship is found between seed elongation and the models, in which the genera with elongated seeds are represented by models with longer trajectories of the spiral. The analysis of seed shape opens new opportunities for taxonomy and allows quantification of seed shape in species of the Cactaceae.
Integrated Nutrient Management Enhances Productivity and Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Crops in Acidic and Charland Soils
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Mojibur , Uddin Shihab , Jahangir Mohammad Mofizur Rahman , Solaiman Zakaria M. , Alamri Saud , Siddiqui Manzer H. , Islam Mohammad Rafiqul
Published: December 2021

Integrated Plant Nutrient System (IPNS) is practiced worldwide to maintain soil quality. Two field experiments were conducted in 2019 and 2020 in acidic and charland soils to assess the impact of different manures, viz., poultry manure (PM), vermicompost (VC), compost (OF), rice husk biochar (RHB), poultry manure biochar (PMB)-based IPNS, and dolomite over control on productivity and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) of the Mustard-Boro-Transplanted Aman and Maize-Jute-Transplanted Aman cropping patterns, and on soil properties. The experiments were laid out in a randomized complete block design with four replications. The results showed that IPNS treatments significantly improved soil aggregate properties and total nitrogen in acidic soil, and bulk density in charland soil. In both years, IPNS treatments increased system productivity from 55.4 to 82.8% in acidic soil and from 43.3 to 115.4% in charland soil over that of control. IPNS and dolomite treatments increased nitrogen uptake from 35.5 to 105.7% over that of control and NUE in both soils in 2019 and 2020. PMB- and OF-based INPS treatments exhibited superior performances in both soils, and the impact was more prominent in 2020. Therefore, PMB- and OF-based IPNS can be recommended for maximizing system productivity and NUE with concurrent improvement of physicochemical properties of acidic and charland soils.
Diversity of Water Yam (Dioscorea alata L.) Accessions from Côte d’Ivoire Based on SNP Markers and Agronomic Traits
Authors: Bakayoko Lassana , Pokou Désiré N’Da , Kouassi Abou Bakari , Agre Paterne A. , Kouakou Amani Michel , Dibi Konan Evrard Brice , Nzue Boni , Mondo Jean M. , Adebola Patrick , Akintayo Oluyemi T. , Asfaw Asrat , N’Guetta Assanvo Simon Pierre
Published: December 2021

Dioscorea alata (L.), also referred to as water, winged, or greater yam, is one of the most economically important staple food crops in tropical and subtropical areas. In Côte d’Ivoire, it represents, along with other yam species, the largest food crop and significantly contributes to food security. However, studies focusing on better understanding the structure and extent of genetic diversity among D. alata accessions, using molecular and phenotypic traits, are limited. This study was, therefore, conducted to assess the pattern of genetic variability in a set of 188 D. alata accessions from the National Agronomic Research Centre (CNRA) genebank using 11,722 SNP markers (generated by the Diversity Arrays Technology) and nine agronomic traits. Phylogenetic analyses using hierarchical clustering, admixture, kinship, and Discriminant analysis of principal component (DAPC) all assigned the accessions into four main clusters. Genetic diversity assessment using molecular-based SNP markers showed a high proportion of polymorphic SNPs (87.81%). The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed low molecular variability within genetic groups. In addition, the agronomic traits evaluated for two years in field conditions showed a high heritability and high variability among D. alata accessions. This study provides insights into the genetic diversity among accessions in the CNRA genebank and opens an avenue for sustainable resource management and the identification of promising parental clones for water yam breeding programs in Côte d’Ivoire.
Sunscreen Effect Exerted by Secondary Carotenoids and Mycosporine-like Amino Acids in the Aeroterrestrial Chlorophyte Coelastrella rubescens under High Light and UV-A Irradiation
Authors: Zaytseva Anna , Chekanov Konstantin , Zaytsev Petr , Bakhareva Daria , Gorelova Olga , Kochkin Dmitry , Lobakova Elena
Published: December 2021

The microalga Coelastrella rubescens dwells in habitats with excessive solar irradiation; consequently, it must accumulate diverse compounds to protect itself. We characterized the array of photoprotective compounds in C. rubescens. Toward this goal, we exposed the cells to high fluxes of visible light and UV-A and analyzed the ability of hydrophilic and hydrophobic extracts from the cells to absorb radiation. Potential light-screening compounds were profiled by thin layer chromatography and UPLC-MS. Coelastrella accumulated diverse carotenoids that absorbed visible light in the blue–green part of the spectrum and mycosporine-like amino acids (MAA) that absorbed the UV-A. It is the first report on the occurrence of MAA in Coelastrella. Two new MAA, named coelastrin A and coelastrin B, were identified. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the development of hydrophobic subcompartments under the high light and UV-A exposition. We also evaluate and discuss sporopollenin-like compounds in the cell wall and autophagy-like processes as the possible reason for the decrease in sunlight absorption by cells, in addition to inducible sunscreen accumulation. The results suggested that C. rubescens NAMSU R1 accumulates a broad range of valuable photoprotective compounds in response to UV-A and visible light irradiation, which indicates this strain as a potential producer for biotechnology.
In-Field Comparative Study of Landraces vs. Modern Wheat Genotypes under a Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Frankin Sivan , Roychowdhury Rajib , Nashef Kamal , Abbo Shahal , Bonfil David J. , Ben-David Roi
Published: December 2021

The Near East climate ranges from arid to a Mediterranean, under which local wheat landraces have been grown for over millennia, assumingly accumulating a unique repertoire of genetic adaptations. In the current study, we subjected a subset of the Israeli Palestinian Landraces (IPLR) collection (n = 19: durum and bread wheat landraces, modern wheat cultivars, and landraces mixtures) to full-field evaluation. The multifield experiment included a semiarid site (2018–2019, 2019–2020) under low (L) and high (H) supplementary irrigation, and a Mediterranean site (2019–2020). Water availability had a major impact on crop performance. This was reflected in a strong discrimination between environments for biomass productivity and yield components. Compared to landraces, modern cultivars exhibited significantly higher grain yield (GY) across environments (+102%) reflecting the effect of the Green Revolution. However, under the Gilat19 (L) environment, this productivity gap was significantly reduced (only +39%). Five excelling landraces and the durum mix exhibited good agronomic potential across all trails. This was expressed in relatively high GY (2.3–2.85 t ha−1), early phenology (86–96 days to heading) and lodging resistance. Given the growing interest of stakeholders and consumers, these might be considered future candidates for the local artisanal wheat grain market. Yet, this step should be taken only after establishing an adjustable field management protocol.
Photoprotective Effects of a Hyperoside-Enriched Fraction Prepared from Houttuynia cordata Thunb. on Ultraviolet B-Induced Skin Aging in Human Fibroblasts through the MAPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Mapoung Sariya , Umsumarng Sonthaya , Semmarath Warathit , Arjsri Punnida , Srisawad Kamonwan , Thippraphan Pilaiporn , Yodkeeree Supachai , Dejkriengkraikul Pornngarm
Published: December 2021

Ultraviolet-B (UVB) irradiation causes skin damage via deleterious effects including oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen degradation. The photoprotective effects of a hyperoside-enriched fraction obtained from Houttuynia cordata Thunb. (H. cordata) on the attenuation of UVB-induced skin aging in human fibroblasts were investigated. The solvent-partition technique was used to establish the hyperoside-enriched fraction of H. cordata (HcEA). The active compounds identified in the H. cordata extracts were hyperoside, quercitrin, chlorogenic acid, and rutin. With regard to the photoprotective effects of H. cordata on UVB-irradiated dermal fibroblasts, HcEA and hyperoside inhibited intracellular ROS production and inflammatory cytokine secretions (IL-6 and IL-8), while increasing collagen type I synthesis along with downregulating MMP-1 gene and protein expressions. Mechanistically, the hyperoside-enriched fraction obtained from H. cordata inhibited UVB-irradiated skin aging through regulation of the MAPK signaling pathway by attenuating the activation of JNK/ERK/c-Jun in human dermal fibroblasts. The hyperoside-enriched fraction of H. cordata exerted potent anti-skin aging properties against UVB exposure. The findings of this study can be applied in the cosmetics industry, as H. cordata extract can potentially be used in pharmaceutical or cosmetic formulations as a photoprotective or anti-skin aging agent.
A Novel Pear Scab (Venturia nashicola) Resistance Gene, Rvn3, from Interspecific Hybrid Pear (Pyrus pyrifolia × P. communis)
Authors: Oh Sewon , Han Hyeondae , Kim Daeil
Published: December 2021

Asian pear scab is a fungal disease caused by Venturia nashicola. The identification of genes conferring scab resistance could facilitate the breeding of disease-resistant cultivars. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify a scab-resistance gene using an interspecific hybrid population ((Pyrus pyrifolia × P. communis) × P. pyrifolia). Artificial inoculation of V. nashicola was carried out for two years. The segregation ratio (1:1) of resistant to susceptible individuals indicated that resistance to V. nashicola was inherited from P. communis and controlled by a single dominant gene. Based on two years phenotypic data with the Kruskal–Wallis test and interval mapping, 12 common markers were significantly associated with scab resistance. A novel scab resistance gene, Rvn3, was mapped in linkage group 6 of the interspecific hybrid pear, and co-linearity between Rvn3 and one of the apple scab resistance genes, Rvi14, was confirmed. Notably, an insertion in pseudo-chromosome 6 of the interspecific hybrid cultivar showed homology with apple scab resistance genes. Hence, the newly discovered Rvn3 was considered an ortholog of the apple scab resistance gene. Since the mapping population used in the present study is a pseudo-BC1 population, pyramiding of multiple resistance genes to pseudo-BC1 could facilitate the breeding of pear cultivars with durable resistance.
Vaccinium virgatum Aiton Leaves Extract Suppressed Lipid Accumulation and Uric Acid Production in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Yamasaki Masao , Kiue Yusei , Fujii Kento , Sushida Moe , Yamasaki Yumi , Sugamoto Kazuhiro , Suzuki Yosuke , Koga Yasuko , Kunitake Hisato , Kai Hisahiro , Ogawa Kenjiro , Nishiyama Kazuo , Goto Yo , Nakayama Takayuki
Published: December 2021

Blueberry (Vaccinium virgatum Aiton; Kinisato 35 Gou) leaves have recently attracted increasing attention as a useful material for the prevention of lifestyle diseases. Here, we examined the effects of the hot water extract of blueberry leaves (BLEx) on lipogenesis and uric acid production in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The results showed that BLEx suppressed lipid accumulation and the mRNA expression of differentiation markers in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. A fractionation study showed that the highly polymerized proanthocyanidin-rich fraction was responsible for this effect. Upon maturation to adipocytes, 3T3-L1 cells produced uric acid and tumor necrosis factor-α, and hypoxia stimulated the production of uric acid and xanthine oxidoreductase activity. BLEx suppressed the production of uric acid under these conditions. Although BLEx inhibited the enzymatic activity of xanthine oxidase, this activity was observed in several fractions containing catechin, epicatechin, chlorogenic acid, rutin, and low molecular weight proanthocyanidins. Taken together, these results indicate that BLEx contains various compounds with the ability to suppress lipid accumulation and uric acid production in adipocytes.
Temperature Dependence of Conformational Relaxation of Poly(ethylene oxide) Melts
Authors: Kim Hye Sol , Kwon Taejin , Park Chung Bin , Sung Bong June
Published: December 2021

The time-temperature superposition (TTS) principle, employed extensively for the analysis of polymer dynamics, is based on the assumption that the different normal modes of polymer chains would experience identical temperature dependence. We aim to test the critical assumption for TTS principle by investigating poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) melts, which have been considered excellent solid polyelectrolytes. In this work, we perform all-atom molecular dynamics simulations up to 300 ns at a range of temperatures for PEO melts. We find from our simulations that the conformations of strands of PEO chains in melts show ideal chain statistics when the strand consists of at least 10 monomers. At the temperature range of T= 400 to 300 K, the mean-square displacements (⟨Δr2(t)⟩) of the centers of mass of chains enter the Fickian regime, i.e., ⟨Δr2(t)⟩∼t1. On the other hand, ⟨Δr2(t)⟩ of the monomers of the chains scales as ⟨Δr2(t)⟩∼t1/2 at intermediate time scales as expected for the Rouse model. We investigate various relaxation modes of the polymer chains and their relaxation times (τn), by calculating for each strand of n monomers. Interestingly, different normal modes of the PEO chains experience identical temperature dependence, thus indicating that the TTS principle would hold for the given temperature range.
Preparation and Property of Bio-Polyimide/Halloysite Nanocomposite Based on 2,5-Furandicarboxylic Acid
Authors: Chen Yingxia , Fan Shuya , Yi Xibin , Li Bing , Chen Shiwei , Liu Shuyu , Hu Tao , Chen Si
Published: December 2021

Bio-based polyimide (PI)/halloysite nanotube (HNT) nanocomposites based on 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid were prepared by in situ polymerization. The pristine HNTs were modified by tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and 4,4′-oxybisbenzenamine (ODA). The bio-based PI/HNT nanocomposite film exhibited lower moisture absorption than pure bio-based polyimide, showing that the water resistance of the bio-based polyimide film was improved. The thermal stability and glass transition temperature (Tg) of PI/HNTs nanocomposites were improved with the addition of modified HNTs. Both the tensile strength and Young’s modulus of bio-based PI/HNTs nanocomposite films were enhanced. A 37.7% increase in tensile strength and a 75.1% increase in Young’s modulus of bio-based PI/HNTs nanocomposite films, with 1 wt% of the modified HNTs, were achieved. The result confirmed that 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid could replace the oil-based material effectively, thus reducing pollution and protecting the environment. Finally, a preparation mechanism to prepare bio-based PI/HNTs nanocomposite is proposed.
A Study of the Strength Performance of Peat Soil: A Modified Cement-Based Stabilization Agent Using Fly Ash and Polypropylene Fiber
Authors: Radwan Mohammed K. H. , Lee Foo Wei , Woon Yoke Bee , Yew Ming Kun , Mo Kim Hung , Wai Soon Han
Published: December 2021

The use of cement as a soil stabilization agent is one of the common solutions to enhancing the engineering properties of soil. However, the impact and cost of using cement have raised environmental concerns, generating much interest in the search for alternative materials to reduce the use of cement as a stabilizing agent in soil treatment. This study looked into limiting cement content in peat soil stabilization by using fly ash waste and polypropylene fiber (PPF). It focused on soil mechanical mediation for stabilization of peat with fly ash cement and PPF cement by comparing the mechanical properties, using unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and California bearing ratio (CBR) tests. The control (untreated) peat specimen and specimens with either fly ash (10%, 20% and 30%) and PPF (0.1%, 0.15% and 0.2%) were studied. Test results showed that 30% of fly ash and cement content displays the highest UCS and CBR values and gives the most reliable compressibility properties. On the other hand, UCS and CBR test results indicate optimum values of PPF–cement stabilizing agent content in the specimen of 0.15% PPF and 30% cement. Selected specimens were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and PPF threads were found to be well surrounded by cement-stabilized peat matrices. It was also observed that the specimen with 30% fly ash generated more hydration products when compared to the specimen with 100% cement content. It is concluded that the use of fly ash cement and PPF cement as stabilizing agents to limit the cement usage in peat soil treatment is potentially viable.
Preparation of Highly Porous Thiophene-Containing DUT-68 Beads for Adsorption of CO2 and Iodine Vapor
Authors: Xiao Songtao , Li Menglin , Cong Haifeng , Wang Lingyu , Li Xiang , Zhang Wen
Published: December 2021

Zirconium-based metal-organic frameworks (Zr-MOFs) have great structural stability and offer great promise in the application of gas capture. However, the powder nature of MOF microcrystallines hinders their further industrial-scale applications in fluid-phase separations. Here, Zr-based DUT-68 was structured into nontoxic and eco-friendly alginate beads, and the gas capture properties were evaluated by CO2 and volatile iodine. DUT-68 beads were synthesized via a facile and versatile cross-linked polymerization of sodium alginate with calcium ions. The composite beads keep the structural integrity and most of the pore accessibility of DUT-68. The resulting DUT-68@Alginate (2:1) porous bead processes a surface area of 541 m2/g and compressive strength as high as 1.2 MPa, and the DUT-68 crystals were well-dispersed in the alginate networks without agglomeration. The DUT-68@Alginate bead with a 60% weight ratio of MOFs exhibits a high carbon dioxide capacity (1.25 mmol/g at 273 K), as well as an excellent high adsorption capacity for iodine, reaching up to 0.65 g/g at 353 K. This work provides a method to construct thiophene-contained composite beads with millimeter sizes for the capture of gases in potential industrial applications.
Synthesis of Low Temperature Resistant Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber Based on Esterification Reaction
Authors: Wang Lin , Ni Yanqiang , Qi Xin , Zhang Liqun , Yue Dongmei
Published: December 2021

Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber (HNBR) is widely used in aerospace, petroleum exploration and other fields because of its excellent performances. However, there remains a challenge of balancing the oil resistance and the low temperature resistance for HNBR. In this work, a series of grafted carboxyl nitrile rubber (XNBR) was prepared by the esterification reaction between active functional groups (–COOH) of XNBR and alkanols of different molecular chain lengths (C8H17OH, C12H25OH, C16H33OH, C18H37OH) or Methoxypolyethylene glycols (MPEG) of different molecular weights (Mn = 350, 750, 1000). The structure and low temperature resistance of as-obtained grafted polymers were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), 1H-NMR and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). It was found that the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of grafted XNBR were significantly decreased. MPEG grafted polymers with better low temperature resistance were then selected for hydrogenation. As-prepared hydrogenated XNBR grafted with MPEG-1000 (HXNBR-g-1000) showed the lowest Tg of −29.8 °C and the best low temperature resistance. This work provides a novel and simple preparation method for low temperature resistant HNBR, which might be used potentially in extremely cold environments.
Self-Assembly of Soluble Chitosan Derivatives Nanoparticles for Vaccine: Synthesis, Characterization and Evaluation
Authors: Liu Jinbao , Yu Shuang , Qu Wanying , Jin Zheng , Zhao Kai
Published: December 2021

Herein, a novel chitosan derivative nanoparticle was proposed to function as a delivery carrier. First of all, an improvement was made to the way N-2-hydroxypropyl trimcthyl ammonium chloride chitosan (N-2-HACC) was synthesized. Moreover, the solution to one-step synthesis of N-2-HACC from chitosan (CS) was developed. Different from the previous report, the synthesis process was simplified, and there was a reduction in the amount of 2,3-epoxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (EPTAC) used. With its excellent water solubility maintained, the relatively low degree of substitution was controlled to facilitate the cross-linking reaction. The results obtained from 1H-NMR, FTIR spectroscopy, and XRD indicated a smooth EPTAC onto CS for the formation of N-2-HACC with 59.33% the degree of substitution (DS). According to our results, N-2-HACC could be dissolved in various organic solvents, deionized water, 1% acetic acid aqueous solution, and others at room temperature. Finally, a novel chitosan nanoparticle material was prepared using the self-assembly method with β-glycerophosphate sodium (β-GC), with excellent immune properties achieved, thus providing a new strategy for chitosan self-assembled nanoparticles.
Investigating the Dimensional Accuracy of the Cavity Produced by ABS P400 Polymer-Based Novel EDM Electrode
Authors: Equbal Azhar , Equbal Asif , Khan Zahid A. , Badruddin Irfan Anjum , Bashir Mohamed Bashir Ali , Alrobei Hussein
Published: December 2021

In the present study, cylindrical ABS P400 polymer parts (diameter 6.5 mm) to be used as die-sinking EDM (electric discharge machining) novel electrodes were fabricated using a fused deposition modeling (FDM) process. To meet the conductivity requirement in EDM, ABS parts were metallized using an innovative method that comprised putting aluminum–charcoal (Al–C) on them followed by their copper electroplating. Real-time EDM of the mild steel workpiece was performed using novel electrodes, and machining performance of the electrodes, measured in terms of dimensional accuracy, i.e., change in diameter (ΔD) and change in depth (ΔH) of the cavity, under varying levels of three EDM factors, i.e., current (I), pulse on time (Ton), and pulse off time (Toff), was investigated. Machining results were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), perturbation graphs, and 3D surface plots. The optimal setting of the EDM parameters for minimizing ΔD and ΔH was determined using the desirability function approach. The suitability of the novel electrodes for EDM was ascertained by comparing their machining results with those of solid copper (SC) electrodes and electrodes fabricated by FDM and metallized using the electro-deposition method (FDM-EM), already reported in the literature, under similar machining conditions. From the results, it was found that ΔD and ΔH were less when EDM was performed using novel electrodes.
Development of Polymer-Based Nanoformulations for Glioblastoma Brain Cancer Therapy and Diagnosis: An Update
Authors: Rabha Bijuli , Bharadwaj Kaushik Kumar , Pati Siddhartha , Choudhury Bhabesh Kumar , Sarkar Tanmay , Kari Zulhisyam Abdul , Edinur Hisham Atan , Baishya Debabrat , Atanase Leonard Ionut
Published: December 2021

Brain cancers, mainly high-grade gliomas/glioblastoma, are characterized by uncontrolled proliferation and recurrence with an extremely poor prognosis. Despite various conventional treatment strategies, viz., resection, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, the outcomes are still inefficient against glioblastoma. The blood–brain barrier is one of the major issues that affect the effective delivery of drugs to the brain for glioblastoma therapy. Various studies have been undergone in order to find novel therapeutic strategies for effective glioblastoma treatment. The advent of nanodiagnostics, i.e., imaging combined with therapies termed as nanotheranostics, can improve the therapeutic efficacy by determining the extent of tumour distribution prior to surgery as well as the response to a treatment regimen after surgery. Polymer nanoparticles gain tremendous attention due to their versatile nature for modification that allows precise targeting, diagnosis, and drug delivery to the brain with minimal adverse side effects. This review addresses the advancements of polymer nanoparticles in drug delivery, diagnosis, and therapy against brain cancer. The mechanisms of drug delivery to the brain of these systems and their future directions are also briefly discussed.
Synthesis and Characterization of Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced Polymer by Adding Ceramic Nanoparticles for Aeronautical Structural Applications
Authors: Bafakeeh Omar Talal , Shewakh Walid Mahmoud , Abu-Oqail Ahmed , Abd-Elaziem Walaa , Abdel Ghafaar Metwally , Abu-Okail Mohamed
Published: December 2021

The multiscale hybridization of ceramic nanoparticles incorporated into polymer matrices reinforced with hybrid fibers offers a new opportunity to develop high-performance, multifunctional composites, especially for applications in aeronautical structures. In this study, two different kinds of hybrid fibers were selected, woven carbon and glass fiber, while two different ceramic nanoparticles, alumina (Al2O3) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), were chosen to incorporate into a polymer matrix (epoxy resin). To obtain good dispersion of additive nanoparticles within the resin matrix, the ultrasonication technique was implemented. The microstructure, XRD patterns, hardness, and tensile properties of the fabricated composites were investigated here. Microstructural characterization demonstrated a good dispersion of ceramic nanoparticles of Al2O3 and GNPs in the fabricated composites. The addition of GNPs/Al2O3 nanoparticles as additive reinforcements to the fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) induced a significant increase in the hardness and tensile strength. Generally, the FRPs with 3 wt.% nano-Al2O3 enhanced composites exhibit higher tensile strength as compared with all other sets of composites. Particularly, the tensile strength was improved from 133 MPa in the unreinforced specimen to 230 MPa in the reinforced specimen with 3 wt.% Al2O3. This can be attributed to the better distribution of nanoparticles in the resin polymer, which, in turn, induces proper stress transfer from the matrix to the fiber phase. The hybrid mode mechanism depends on the interaction among the mechanical properties of fiber, the physical and chemical evolution of resin, the bonding properties of the fiber/resin interface, and the service environment. Therefore, the hybrid mode of woven carbon and glass fibers at a volume fraction of 64% with additive nanoparticles of GNPs/Al2O3 within the resin was appropriate to produce aeronautical structures with extraordinary properties.
Effects of Collagen–Glycosaminoglycan Mesh on Gene Expression as Determined by Using Principal Component Analysis-Based Unsupervised Feature Extraction
Authors: Taguchi Y-h. , Turki Turki
Published: December 2021

The development of the medical applications for substances or materials that contact cells is important. Hence, it is necessary to elucidate how substances that surround cells affect gene expression during incubation. In the current study, we compared the gene expression profiles of cell lines that were in contact with collagen–glycosaminoglycan mesh and control cells. Principal component analysis-based unsupervised feature extraction was applied to identify genes with altered expression during incubation in the treated cell lines but not in the controls. The identified genes were enriched in various biological terms. Our method also outperformed a conventional methodology, namely, gene selection based on linear regression with time course.
Antibacterial Films of Alginate-CoNi-Coated Cellulose Paper Stabilized Co NPs for Dyes and Nitrophenol Degradation
Authors: Anwar Yasir , Mohammed Ali Hani S. H. , Rehman Waseeq Ur , Hemeg Hassan A. , Khan Shahid Ali
Published: December 2021

The development of a solid substrate for the support and stabilization of zero-valent metal nanoparticles (NPs) is the heart of the catalyst system. In the current embodiment, we have prepared solid support comprise of alginate-coated cellulose filter paper (Alg/FP) for the synthesis and stabilization of Co nanoparticles (NPs) named as Alg/FP@Co NPs. Furthermore, Alginate polymer was blended with 1 and 2 weight percent of CoNi NPs to make Alg-CoNi1/FP and Alg-CoNi2/FP, respectively. All these stabilizing matrixes were used as dip-catalyst for the degradation of azo dyes and reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4NP). The effect of initial dye concentration, amount of NaBH4, and catalyst dosage was assessed for the degradation of Congo red (CR) dye by using Alg-CoNi2/FP@Co NPs. Results indicated that the highest kapp value (3.63 × 10−1 min−1) was exhibited by Alg-CoNi2/FP@Co NPs and lowest by Alg/FP@Co NPs against the discoloration of CR dye. Furthermore, it was concluded that Alg-CoNi2/FP@Co NPs exhibited strong catalyst activity against CR, and methyl orange dye (MO) degradation as well as 4NP reduction. Antibacterial activity of the prepared composites was also investigated and the highest l activity was shown by Alg-CoNi2/FP@Co NPs, which inhibit 2.5 cm zone of bacteria compared to other catalysts.
Recent Advancements in Microbial Polysaccharides: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Mahmoud Yehia A.-G. , El-Naggar Mehrez E. , Abdel-Megeed Ahmed , El-Newehy Mohamed
Published: December 2021

Polysaccharide materials are widely applied in different applications including food, food packaging, drug delivery, tissue engineering, wound dressing, wastewater treatment, and bioremediation sectors. They were used in these domains due to their efficient, cost-effective, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. As is known, polysaccharides can be synthesized by different simple, facile, and effective methods. Of these polysaccharides are cellulose, Arabic gum, sodium alginate, chitosan, chitin, curdlan, dextran, pectin, xanthan, pullulan, and so on. In this current article review, we focused on discussing the synthesis and potential applications of microbial polysaccharides. The biosynthesis of polysaccharides from microbial sources has been considered. Moreover, the utilization of molecular biology tools to modify the structure of polysaccharides has been covered. Such polysaccharides provide potential characteristics to transfer toxic compounds and decrease their resilience to the soil. Genetically modified microorganisms not only improve yield of polysaccharides, but also allow economically efficient production. With the rapid advancement of science and medicine, biosynthesis of polysaccharides research has become increasingly important. Synthetic biology approaches can play a critical role in developing polysaccharides in simple and facile ways. In addition, potential applications of microbial polysaccharides in different fields with a particular focus on food applications have been assessed.