bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A High-Throughput Fluorescence Polarization-Based Assay for the SH2 Domain of STAT4
Authors: Berg Angela , Gräber Martin , Schmutzler Sebastian , Hoffmann Ralf , Berg Thorsten
Published: November 2022

The signal transducer and activation of transcription (STAT) proteins are a family of Src homology 2 (SH2) domain-containing transcription factors. The family member STAT4 is a mediator of IL-12 signalling and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple autoimmune diseases. The activity of STAT4 requires binding of phosphotyrosine-containing motifs to its SH2 domain. Selective inhibitors of the STAT4 SH2 domain have not been published to date. Here, we present a fluorescence polarization-based assay for the identification of inhibitors of the STAT4 SH2 domain. The assay is based on the interaction between the STAT4 SH2 domain and the fluorophore-labelled peptide 5-carboxyfluorescein-GpYLPQNID (Kd = 34 ± 4 nM). The assay is stable with respect to DMSO concentrations of up to 10% and incubation times of at least 8 h. The Z’-value of 0.85 ± 0.01 indicates that the assay is suited for use in high-throughput screening campaigns aimed at identifying new therapeutic modalities for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Phase-Controllable Chemical Vapor Deposition Synthesis of Atomically Thin MoTe2
Authors: Xu Tao , Li Aolin , Wang Shanshan , Tan Yinlong , Cheng Xiang’ai
Published: November 2022

Two-dimensional (2D) molybdenum telluride (MoTe2) is attracting increasing attention for its potential applications in electronic, optoelectronic, photonic and catalytic fields, owing to the unique band structures of both stable 2H phase and 1T′ phase. However, the direct growth of high-quality atomically thin MoTe2 with the controllable proportion of 2H and 1T′ phase seems hard due to easy phase transformation since the potential barrier between the two phases is extremely small. Herein, we report a strategy of the phase-controllable chemical vapor deposition (CVD) synthesis for few-layer (<3 layer) MoTe2. Besides, a new understanding of the phase-controllable growth mechanism is presented based on a combination of experimental results and DFT calculations. The lattice distortion caused by Te vacancies or structural strain might make 1T′-MoTe2 more stable. The conditions for 2H to 1T′ phase conversion are determined to be the following: Te monovacancies exceeding 4% or Te divacancies exceeding 8%, or lattice strain beyond 6%. In contrast, sufficient Te supply and appropriate tellurization velocity are essential to obtaining the prevailing 2H-MoTe2. Our work provides a novel perspective on the preparation of 2D transition metal chalcogenides (TMDs) with the controllable proportion of 2H and 1T′ phase and paves the way to their subsequent potential application of these hybrid phases.
Controlled Synthesis of Tellurium Nanowires
Authors: Miranda La Hera Vladimir , Wu Xiuyu , Mena Josué , Barzegar Hamid Reza , Ashok Anumol , Koroidov Sergey , Wågberg Thomas , Gracia-Espino Eduardo
Published: November 2022

One-dimensional tellurium nanostructures can exhibit distinct electronic properties from those seen in bulk Te. The electronic properties of nanostructured Te are highly dependent on their morphology, and thus controlled synthesis processes are required. Here, highly crystalline tellurium nanowires were produced via physical vapour deposition. We used growth temperature, heating rate, flow of the carrier gas, and growth time to control the degree of supersaturation in the region where Te nanostructures are grown. The latter leads to a control in the nucleation and morphology of Te nanostructures. We observed that Te nanowires grow via the vapour–solid mechanism where a Te particle acts as a seed. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron diffraction studies revealed that Te nanowires have a trigonal crystal structure and grow along the (0001) direction. Their diameter can be tuned from 26 to 200 nm with lengths from 8.5 to 22 μm, where the highest aspect ratio of 327 was obtained for wires measuring 26 nm in diameter and 8.5 μm in length. We investigated the use of bismuth as an additive to reduce the formation of tellurium oxides, and we discuss the effect of other growth parameters.
New Avenues of Research for Nanoparticle Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Prado-Gotor Rafael
Published: November 2022

Knowledge of the different elements that determine the optimal method for drug loading and delivery nanosystems using nanoparticles of different natures is experiencing a remarkable boom in many scientific fields, especially in medicine, chemistry, biology, materials science and molecular biotechnology [...]
Understanding the Role of Soft X-ray in Charging Solid-Film and Cellular Electrets
Authors: Feng Yue , Rao Zehong , Song Ki-Young , Tang Xusong , Zhou Zilong , Xiong Ying
Published: November 2022

Solid-film electrets and cellular electrets are defined as promising insulating dielectric materials containing permanent electrostatic and polarizations. High-performance charging methods are critical for electret transducers. Unlike dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) charging, the soft X-ray charging method, with its strong penetration ability, has been widely used in electrets after packaging and has even been embedded in high-aspect-ratio structures (HARSs). However, the related charging model and the charging effect of the soft X-ray irradiation remain unclear. In this study, the charge carrier migration theory and the one-dimensional electrostatic model were employed to build the soft X-ray charging models. The influence of soft X-ray irradiation under deferent poling voltages was investigated theoretically and experimentally. The conducted space charge measurement based on a pulsed electro-acoustic (PEA) system with a soft X-ray generator revealed that soft X-ray charging can offer higher surface charge densities and piezoelectricity to cellular electrets under the critical poling voltage lower than twice the breakdown voltage.
Charge Transport inside TiO2 Memristors Prepared via FEBID
Authors: Baranowski Markus , Sachser Roland , Marinković Bratislav P. , Ivanović Stefan Dj. , Huth Michael
Published: November 2022

We fabricated memristive devices using focused electron beam-induced deposition (FEBID) as a direct-writing technique employing a Pt/TiO2/Pt sandwich layer device configuration. Pinching in the measured current-voltage characteristics (i-v), the characteristic fingerprint of memristive behavior was clearly observed. The temperature dependence was measured for both high and low resistive states in the range from 290 K down to about 2 K, showing a stretched exponential behavior characteristic of Mott-type variable-range hopping. From this observation, a valence change mechanism of the charge transport inside the TiO2 layer can be deduced.
Colloidal Behavior and Biodegradation of Engineered Carbon-Based Nanomaterials in Aquatic Environment
Authors: Pikula Konstantin , Johari Seyed Ali , Golokhvast Kirill
Published: November 2022

Carbon-based nanomaterials (CNMs) have attracted a growing interest over the last decades. They have become a material commonly used in industry, consumer products, water purification, and medicine. Despite this, the safety and toxic properties of different types of CNMs are still debatable. Multiple studies in recent years highlight the toxicity of CNMs in relation to aquatic organisms, including bacteria, microalgae, bivalves, sea urchins, and other species. However, the aspects that have significant influence on the toxic properties of CNMs in the aquatic environment are often not considered in research works and require further study. In this work, we summarized the current knowledge of colloidal behavior, transformation, and biodegradation of different types of CNMs, including graphene and graphene-related materials, carbon nanotubes, fullerenes, and carbon quantum dots. The other part of this work represents an overview of the known mechanisms of CNMs’ biodegradation and discusses current research works relating to the biodegradation of CNMs in aquatic species. The knowledge about the biodegradation of nanomaterials will facilitate the development of the principals of “biodegradable-by-design” nanoparticles which have promising application in medicine as nano-carriers and represent lower toxicity and risks for living species and the environment.
The Kinetics of Aragonite Formation from Solution via Amorphous Calcium Carbonate
Authors: Clark Simon M. , Grigorova Vili , Colas Bruno , Darwish Tamim A. , Wood Kathleen , Neuefeind Joerg , Jacob Dorrit E.
Published: November 2022

Magnesium doped Amorphous Calcium Carbonate was synthesised from precursor solutions containing varying amounts of calcium, magnesium, H2O and D2O. The Mg/Ca ratio in the resultant Amorphous Calcium Carbonate was found to vary linearly with the Mg/Ca ratio in the precursor solution. All samples crystallised as aragonite. No Mg was found in the final aragonite crystals. Changes in the Mg to Ca ratio were found to only marginally effect nucleation rates but strongly effect crystal growth rates. These results are consistent with a dissolution-reprecipitation model for aragonite formation via an Amorphous Calcium Carbonate intermediate.
Mechanically Strong and Electrically Conductive Polyethylene Oxide/Few-Layer Graphene/Cellulose Nanofibrils Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Li Mei , Xiao Meijie , Wang Qunhao , Zhang Jian , Xue Xiaolin , Zhao Jiangqi , Zhang Wei , Lu Canhui
Published: November 2022

In this work, a cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs)/few-layer graphene (FLG) hybrid is mechanically stripped from bamboo pulp and expanded graphene (EG) using a grinder. This strategy is scalable and environmentally friendly for high-efficiency exfoliation and dispersion of graphene in an aqueous medium. The in situ-generated CNFs play a key role in this process, acting as a “green” dispersant. Next, the obtained CNFs-FLG is used as a functional filler in a polyoxyethylene (PEO) matrix. When the composition of CNFs-FLG is 50 wt.%, the resultant PEO/CNFs-FLG nanocomposite film exhibits a Young’s modulus of 1.8 GPa and a tensile strength of 25.7 MPa, showing 480% and 260% enhancement as compared to those of the pure PEO film, respectively. Remarkably, the incorporation of CNFs-FLG also provides the nanocomposite films with a stunning electrical conductivity (72.6 S/m). These attractive features make PEO/CNFs-FLG nanocomposite films a promising candidate for future electronic devices.
Sunlight-Powered Reverse Water Gas Shift Reaction Catalysed by Plasmonic Au/TiO2 Nanocatalysts: Effects of Au Particle Size on the Activity and Selectivity
Authors: Volders Jordi , Elen Ken , Raes Arno , Ninakanti Rajeshreddy , Kelchtermans An-Sofie , Sastre Francesc , Hardy An , Cool Pegie , Verbruggen Sammy W. , Buskens Pascal , Van Bael Marlies K.
Published: November 2022

This study reports the low temperature and low pressure conversion (up to 160 °C, p = 3.5 bar) of CO2 and H2 to CO using plasmonic Au/TiO2 nanocatalysts and mildly concentrated artificial sunlight as the sole energy source (up to 13.9 kW·m−2 = 13.9 suns). To distinguish between photothermal and non-thermal contributors, we investigated the impact of the Au nanoparticle size and light intensity on the activity and selectivity of the catalyst. A comparative study between P25 TiO2-supported Au nanocatalysts of a size of 6 nm and 16 nm displayed a 15 times higher activity for the smaller particles, which can only partially be attributed to the higher Au surface area. Other factors that may play a role are e.g., the electronic contact between Au and TiO2 and the ratio between plasmonic absorption and scattering. Both catalysts displayed ≥84% selectivity for CO (side product is CH4). Furthermore, we demonstrated that the catalytic activity of Au/TiO2 increases exponentially with increasing light intensity, which indicated the presence of a photothermal contributor. In dark, however, both Au/TiO2 catalysts solely produced CH4 at the same catalyst bed temperature (160 °C). We propose that the difference in selectivity is caused by the promotion of CO desorption through charge transfer of plasmon generated charges (as a non-thermal contributor).
Effect of Silica-Based Nanomaterials on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Jiang Yaqi , Yang Jie , Li Mingshu , Li Yuanbo , Zhou Pingfan , Wang Quanlong , Sun Yi , Zhu Guikai , Wang Qibin , Zhang Peng , Rui Yukui , Lynch Iseult
Published: November 2022

The application of nanomaterials (NMs) in agriculture has become a global concern in recent years. However, studies on their effects on plants are still limited. Here, we conducted a seed germination experiment for 5 days and a hydroponics experiment for 14 days to study the effects of silicon dioxide NMs(nSiO2) and silicon carbide NMs(nSiC) (0,10, 50, 200 mg/L) on rice (Oryza sativa L.). Bulk SiO2 (bSiO2) and sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) were used as controls. The results showed that nSiO2 and nSiC increased the shoot length (11–37%, 6–25%) and root length (17–87%, 59–207%) of germinating seeds, respectively, compared with the control. Similarly, inter-root exposure to nSiO2, bSiO2, and nSiC improved the activity of aboveground catalase (10–55%, 31–34%, and 13–51%) and increased the content of trace elements magnesium, copper, and zinc, thus promoting the photosynthesis of rice. However, Na2SiO3 at a concentration of 200 mg/L reduced the aboveground and root biomass of rice by 27–51% and 4–17%, respectively. This may be because excess silicon not only inhibited the activity of root antioxidant enzymes but also disrupted the balance of mineral elements. This finding provides a new basis for the effect of silica-based NMs promotion on seed germination and rice growth.
Application Progress of PALS in the Correlation of Structure and Properties for Graphene/Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Han Xiaobing , Gao Jie , Chen Tao , Qian Libing , Xiong Houhua , Chen Zhiyuan
Published: November 2022

Giving a deep insight into the microstructure, and realizing the correlation between microstructure and properties is very important to the precise construction of high-performance graphene/polymer nanocomposites (GPN). For the promising application in microstructure characterization, much attention has been focused on the effective technique of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). Based on the introduction of the basic principle, this review summarized the application progress of PALS in the correlation of microstructure and properties for GPN, especially for the characterization of free volume and interfacial interaction, and the correlation of these microstructures and properties.
Gut Microbiota Profile in Adults Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Coimbra Vívian O. R. , Crovesy Louise , Ribeiro-Alves Marcelo , Faller Ana Luísa K. , Mattos Fernanda , Rosado Eliane L.
Published: November 2022

Gut microbiota (GM) after bariatric surgery (BS) has been considered as a factor associated with metabolic improvements and weight loss. In this systematic review, we evaluate changes in the GM, characterized by 16S rRNA and metagenomics techniques, in obese adults who received BS. The PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and LILACS databases were searched. Two independent reviewers analyzed articles published in the last ten years, using Rayyan QCRI. The initial search resulted in 1275 documents, and 18 clinical trials were included after the exclusion criteria were applied. The predominance of intestinal bacteria phyla varied among studies; however, most of them reported a greater amount of Bacteroidetes (B), Proteobacteria (P), and diversity (D) after BS. Firmicutes (F), B, and the (F/B) ratio was inconsistent, increasing or decreasing after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) were conducted, compared to before surgery. There was a reduction in the relative proportion of F. Moreover, a higher proportion of Actinobacteria (A) was observed after RYGB was conducted. However, the same was not identified when SG procedures were applied. Genera abundance and bacteria predominance varied according to the surgical procedure, with limited data regarding the impact on phyla. The present study was approved by PROSPERO, under registration number CRD42020209509.
The Effect of Food Vouchers and an Educational Intervention on Promoting Healthy Eating in Vulnerable Families: A Pilot Study
Authors: Miguel-Berges María L. , Jimeno-Martínez Andrea , Larruy-García Alicia , Moreno Luis A. , Rodríguez Gerardo , Iguacel Isabel
Published: November 2022

Cost has been reported as the main barrier to healthy eating in vulnerable groups. We aimed to evaluate the effect of a nutrition education intervention on adherence to Mediterranean Diet and health when providing food vouchers. This pilot study has a randomized control trial design. We included 66 vulnerable users from the Red Cross of Zaragoza (Spain). Intervention and control group individuals received 120 euros/month of food vouchers over 3 months to be spent in supermarkets (60 euros/month if under 12 y) plus a 10-week nutrition education program for the intervention group. Family food purchases were assessed using electronically recorded supermarket-obtained transactions. During and at the end of the intervention the percentage of healthy food was higher in the intervention than in the control group. Once the nutrition education was over, differences between groups dissipated. In the intervention group, health parameters improved, particularly weight-status, lipids, and liver enzymes. Control participants gained weight, although lipid and liver enzymes improved. Blood pressure and HbA1c did not improve in either the intervention or the control group. In conclusion, providing unrestricted food vouchers to vulnerable groups to increase healthy food consumption appears to be insufficient and should be accompanied by medium-long term nutrition education.
Adverse Events Associated with Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir: A Pharmacovigilance Analysis Based on FAERS
Authors: Li Meng , Zhang Qing-Song , Liu Xin-Ling , Wang Hui-Ling , Liu Wei
Published: November 2022

Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir is approved for the treatment of adults and pediatric patients with mild to moderate COVID-19, but information on adverse events associated with its use is limited. We aim to evaluate adverse events with potential risk for nirmatrelvir/ritonavir using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Disproportionality analysis was performed using the reporting odds ratio (ROR) method, and subset analysis based on patient age and gender, as well as sensitivity analysis restricting the type of reporter to healthcare professionals. Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir was the most commonly reported COVID-19 drug, and 87.66% of the outcomes were non-serious. The most frequently reported events were disease recurrence (40.43%), dysgeusia (17.55%), and diarrhea (8.80%). In disproportionality analysis, the use of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir was significantly associated with disease recurrence (ROR: 212.01, 95% CI: 162.85–276.01), whereas no signal of disease recurrence was detected for any other COVID-19 drug. Disease recurrence (ROR: 421.38, 95% CI: 273.60–648.99) was more significant when limiting the reporter type to healthcare professionals. No significant differences in adverse event reports were found based on patient gender or age. Our study confirms that the risk of serious adverse events is low with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, but its association with disease recurrence should not be ignored.
Investigation of Trends in the Research on Transferrin Receptor-Mediated Drug Delivery via a Bibliometric and Thematic Analysis
Authors: Kaur Tarnjot , Upadhyay Jyoti , Pukale Sudeep , Mathur Ashish , Ansari Mohd Nazam
Published: November 2022

This study systematically reviews and characterizes the existing literature on transferrin/transferrin receptor-mediated drug delivery. Transferrin is an iron-binding protein. It can be used as a ligand to deliver various proteins, genes, ions, and drugs to the target site via transferrin receptors for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes via transferrin receptors. This study is based on a cross-sectional bibliometric analysis of 583 papers limited to the subject areas of pharmacology, toxicology, and pharmaceutics as extracted from the Scopus database in mid-September 2022. The data were analyzed, and we carried out a performance analysis and science mapping. There was a significant increase in research from 2018 onward. The countries that contributed the most were the USA and China, and most of the existing research was found to be from single-country publications. Research studies on transferrin/transferrin receptor-mediated drug delivery focus on drug delivery across the blood–brain barrier in the form of nanoparticles. The thematic analysis revealed four themes: transferrin/transferrin receptor-mediated drug delivery to the brain, cancer cells, gene therapy, nanoparticles, and liposomes as drug delivery systems. This study is relevant to academics, practitioners, and decision makers interested in targeted and site-specific drug delivery.
Prediction of α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity of LC-ESI-TQ-MS/MS-Identified Compounds from Tradescantia pallida Leaves
Authors: Imtiaz Fariha , Islam Muhammad , Saeed Hamid , Ahmed Abrar , Hashmi Furqan Khurshid , Khan Kashif Maqbool , Dar Umair Ikram , Ullah Kalim , Rana Sibghat Mansoor , Saleem Bushra , Yasmeen Anam , Ahmad Aneeba , Hussain Hafiza Arbab , Afzal Atika , Shahid Kashmala
Published: November 2022

Diabetes is a chronic disease that leads to abnormal carbohydrate digestion and hyperglycemia. The long-term use of marketed drugs results in secondary infections and side effects that demand safe and natural substitutes for synthetic drugs. The objective of this study is to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of compounds from the leaves of Tradescantia pallida. Thirteen phenolic compounds were identified from the ethyl acetate fraction of leaves of Tradescantia pallida using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The compounds were then studied for the type of interactions between polyphenols and human α-glucosidase protein using molecular docking analysis. Prime Molecular Mechanics/Generalized Born Surface Area (MM-GBSA) calculations were performed to measure the binding free energies responsible for the formation of ligand–protein complexes. The compounds were further investigated for the thermodynamic constraints under a specified biological environment using molecular dynamic simulations. The flexibility of the ligand–protein systems was verified by Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD), Root Mean Square Fluctuation (RMSF) and molecular interactions. The results authenticated the antidiabetic potential of polyphenols identified from the leaves of Tradescantia pallida. Our investigations could be helpful in the design of safe antidiabetic agents, but further in vitro and in vivo investigations are required.
Ramosin: The First Antibacterial Peptide Identified on Bolitoglossa ramosi Colombian Salamander
Authors: Medina Laura , Guzmán Fanny , Álvarez Claudio , Delgado Jean Paul , Carbonell-M Belfran
Published: November 2022

The discovery and improvements of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have become an alternative to conventional antibiotics. They are usually small and heat-stable peptides, exhibiting inhibitory activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. In this way, studies on broad-spectrum AMPs found in amphibians with the remarkable capability to regenerate a wide array of tissues are of particular interest in the search for new strategies to treat multidrug-resistant bacterial strains. In this work, the use of bioinformatic approaches such as sequence alignment with Fasta36 and prediction of antimicrobial activity allowed the identification of the Ramosin peptide from the de novo assembled transcriptome of the plethodontid salamander Bolitoglossa ramosi obtained from post-amputation of the upper limb tissue, heart, and intestine samples. BLAST analysis revealed that the Ramosin peptide sequence is unique in Bolitoglossa ramosi. The peptide was chemically synthesized, and physicochemical properties were characterized. Furthermore, the in vitro antimicrobial activity against relevant Gram-positive and Gram-negative human pathogenic bacteria was demonstrated. Finally, no effect against eukaryotic cells or human red blood cells was evidenced. This is the first antibacterial peptide identified from a Colombian endemic salamander with interesting antimicrobial properties and no hemolytic activity.
Iron-Based Ceramic Composite Nanomaterials for Magnetic Fluid Hyperthermia and Drug Delivery
Authors: Chan Ming-Hsien , Li Chien-Hsiu , Chang Yu-Chan , Hsiao Michael
Published: November 2022

Because of the unique physicochemical properties of magnetic iron-based nanoparticles, such as superparamagnetism, high saturation magnetization, and high effective surface area, they have been applied in biomedical fields such as diagnostic imaging, disease treatment, and biochemical separation. Iron-based nanoparticles have been used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to produce clearer and more detailed images, and they have therapeutic applications in magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH). In recent years, researchers have used clay minerals, such as ceramic materials with iron-based nanoparticles, to construct nanocomposite materials with enhanced saturation, magnetization, and thermal effects. Owing to their unique structure and large specific surface area, iron-based nanoparticles can be homogenized by adding different proportions of ceramic minerals before and after modification to enhance saturation magnetization. In this review, we assess the potential to improve the magnetic properties of iron-based nanoparticles and in the preparation of multifunctional composite materials through their combination with ceramic materials. We demonstrate the potential of ferromagnetic enhancement and multifunctional composite materials for MRI diagnosis, drug delivery, MFH therapy, and cellular imaging applications.
In Situ Co-Amorphization of Olanzapine in the Matrix and on the Coat of Pellets
Authors: da Costa Nuno F. , Azevedo Raquel F. , Lopes João A. , Fernandes Ana I. , Pinto João F.
Published: November 2022

In situ amorphization is a promising approach, considered in the present work, to enhance the solubility and dissolution rate of olanzapine, while minimizing the exposure of the amorphous material to the stress conditions applied during conventional processing. The production of pellets by extrusion/spheronization and the coating of inert beads were investigated as novel methods to promote the co-amorphization of olanzapine, a poorly water-soluble drug, and saccharin. Samples were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, and dissolution and stability testing. The co-amorphous produced were compared with crystalline olanzapine, or physical mixture of olanzapine and saccharin. Results suggested that the addition of water to mixtures containing olanzapine and saccharin during the production of pellets, and the coating of inert beads, induced the in situ co-amorphization of these substances. The coating of inert beads enhanced the solubility and dissolution rate of olanzapine, especially when compared to pellets coated with the crystalline drug, but also with pellets containing the co-amorphous entity in the matrix of beads. Nine months stability tests (23 °C/60% RH) confirmed the preservation of the solid-state properties of the co-amorphous form on/in pellets. Overall, results highlighted the feasibility and benefits of in situ co-amorphization, either when the drug was entrapped in the pellets matrix, or preferentially applied directly on the surface of pellets.
An Electrically Tunable Terahertz Filter Based on Liquid-Crystal-Filled Slits with Wall Corrugations
Authors: Zhang Shi-Yang , Ma Jing , He Hai-Ling , Tong Cheng-Guo , Liu Huan , Fan Ya-Xian , Tao Zhi-Yong
Published: November 2022

We propose a type of hollow planar waveguide with corrugated walls, which can realize electrically tunable terahertz (THz) filtering by filling the slit with liquid crystals. When the THz signals propagate in a planar waveguide with periodic corrugations, the transmission spectrum always exhibits many pass and stop bands. Inserting a section of defects in the middle of the periodic corrugations can excite an extremely narrow transmission peak, which would be a very good THz filter for frequency division. To achieve tunability of this narrow linewidth THz filter, we also fill the slit between the two corrugated walls with a nematic liquid crystal. The effective refractive index of liquid crystals will change with the external electric field, thus tuning the frequency of the narrow peak. The simulated results show that the center frequency of the proposed filter can be tuned linearly in the frequency range of 0.984~1.023 THz by the external electric field. Moreover, the bandwidth of the filter can be adjusted from 3.2 GHz to 0.3 GHz by increasing the number of periods in the waveguide, and a maximum Q value of 2556 can be achieved when the number of periods at both sides of the defect is 12.
Metabolites from Bacillus subtilis J-15 Affect Seedling Growth of Arabidopsis thaliana and Cotton Plants
Authors: Zhang Hui , Yang Qilin , Zhao Jingjing , Chen Jiayi , Wang Shiqi , Ma Mingyue , Liu Huan , Zhang Qi , Zhao Heping , Zhou Dongyuan , Wang Xianxian , Gao Jie , Zhao Huixin
Published: November 2022

Bacillus subtilis J-15 is a plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria isolated from the soil rhizosphere of cotton and is resistant to cotton verticillium wilt. This study evaluated the effects of metabolites of J-15 (J-15-Ms), including mycosubtilin, on plant growth using Arabidopsis and cotton plants. The results showed that J-15-Ms promoted Arabidopsis seeding growth at lower concentrations of 0.2 μg/mL but inhibited the growth at higher concentrations, such as 20 μg/mL. Similar results were obtained in cotton. Thus, J-15-Ms-treated plants showed low-concentration-induced growth promotion and high-concentration-induced growth inhibition. The J-15-Ms components were analyzed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Correlation analysis using the J-15 genomic databases suggested that J-15 may synthesize indoleacetic acid via the indole-3-pymvate pathway and indole-3-acetamide pathway. Treatment with mycosubtilin, a purified peptide from J-15-Ms, showed that the peptide promoted Arabidopsis growth at a low concentration (0.1 μg/mL) and inhibited plant growth at high concentrations (higher than 1 μg/mL), which also significantly increased plant lateral root number. Transcriptomic analysis showed that mycosubtilin might promote lateral root development and inhibit plant primary root growth by regulating the expression of the plant hormone signaling pathway. This study reveals the mechanism of Bacillus subtilis J-15 in affecting plant growth.
Effect of Wastewater on the Composition of Bacterial Microbiota of Phragmites australis Used in Constructed Wetlands for Phytodepuration
Authors: Cangioli Lisa , Salobehaj Maria , Del Duca Sara , Fagorzi Camilla , Berardi Chiara , Coppini Ester , Fibbi Donatella , Fani Renato , Vassallo Alberto
Published: November 2022

Phytodepuration occurs in the plant-mediated remediation processes exploited to remove pollutants from wastewater, and Phragmites australis is one of the most used plants. This goal is achieved using constructed wetlands (CW), which are engineered systems designed to mimic the natural processes of pollutants removal. The aim of this work was to characterize the bacterial communities associated to P. australis, soils, and permeates of the CW of Calice (Prato, Italy), to evaluate the possible effect of wastewaters on the CW bacterial communities, through a next-generation sequencing-based approach. A total of 122 samples were collected from different tissues of P. australis (i.e., roots, aerial parts, and stem), soil (i.e., rhizospheric and bulk soil), and permeates, and analyzed. All samples were collected during five sampling campaigns, with the first one performed before the activation of the plant. Obtained results highlighted a specific microbiota of P. australis, conserved among the different plant tissues and during time, showing a lower alpha diversity than the other samples and not influenced by the more complex and variable environmental (soils and permeates) bacterial communities. These data suggest that P. australis is able to select and maintain a defined microbiota, a capacity that could allow the plant to survive in hostile environments, such as that of CW.
Snatching Sundews—Analysis of Tentacle Movement in Two Species of Drosera in Terms of Response Rate, Response Time, and Speed of Movement
Authors: Ivesic Caroline , Adlassnig Wolfram , Koller-Peroutka Marianne , Kress Linda , Lang Ingeborg
Published: November 2022

Drosera, Droseraceae, catch prey with sticky tentacles. Both Australian Drosera allantostigma and widespread D. rotundifolia show three types of anatomically different tentacles: short, peripheral, and snap-tentacles. The latter two are capable of fast movement. This motion was analysed after mechanical, chemical, and electrical stimulation with respect to response rate, response time, and angular velocity of bending. Compared to D. rotundifolia, D. allantostigma responds more frequently and faster; the tentacles bend with higher angular velocity. Snap-tentacles have a lower response rate, shorter response time, and faster angular velocity. The response rates for chemical and electrical stimuli are similar, and higher than the rates for mechanical stimulus. The response time is not dependent on stimulus type. The higher motility in D. allantostigma indicates increased dependence on mechanical prey capture, and a reduced role of adhesive mucilage. The same tentacle types are present in both species and show similar motility patterns. The lower response rate of snap-tentacles might be a safety measure against accidental triggering, since the motion of snap-tentacles is irreversible and tissue destructive. Furthermore, tentacles seem to discern stimuli and respond specifically. The established model of stereotypical tentacle movement may not fully explain these observations.
GC, GC/MS Analysis, and Biological Effects of Essential Oils from Thymus mastchina and Elettaria cardamomum
Authors: Vukovic Nenad L. , Vukic Milena D. , Obradovic Ana D. , Matic Milos M. , Galovičová Lucia , Kačániová Miroslava
Published: November 2022

Spanish marjoram (Thymus mastichina) and cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) are traditional aromatic plants with which several pharmacological properties have been associated. In this study, the volatile composition, antioxidative and antimigratory effects on human breast cancer (MDA-MB-468 cell line), antimicrobial activity, and antibiofilm effect were evaluated. Results obtained via treatment of human breast cancer cells generally indicated an inhibitory effect of both essential oils (EOs) on cell viability (after long-term treatment) and antioxidative potential, as well as the reduction of nitric oxide levels. Antimigratory effects were revealed, suggesting that these EOs could possess significant antimetastatic properties and stop tumor progression and growth. The antimicrobial activities of both EOs were determined using the disc diffusion method and minimal inhibition concentration, while antibiofilm activity was evaluated by means of mass spectrometry. The best antimicrobial effects of T. mastichina EO were found against the yeast Candida glabrata and the G+ bacterium Listeria monocytogenes using the disc diffusion and minimal inhibitory concentration methods. E. cardamomum EO was found to be most effective against Pseudomas fluorescens biofilm using both methods. Similarly, better effects of this oil were observed on G− compared to G+ bacterial strains. Our study confirms that T. mastichina and E. cardamomum EOs act to change the protein structure of older P. fluorescens biofilms. The results underline the potential use of these EOs in manufactured products, such as foodstuffs, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Cucumber mosaic virus Is Unable to Self-Assemble in Tobacco Plants When Transmitted by Seed
Authors: Vitti Antonella , Pagán Israel , Bochicchio Brigida , De Stradis Angelo , Piazzolla Pasquale , Scopa Antonio , Nuzzaci Maria
Published: November 2022

Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), which has great impact on agronomic production worldwide, is both aphid and seed transmitted. Although the mechanisms of aphid transmission have been widely studied, those underlying the ability of CMV to survive and remain infectious during the passage from one generation to the next through the seeds are still to be clarified. Moreover, the viral determinants of seed transmission rate are poorly understood. Three viral genotypes produced from same RNA 1 and 2 components of CMV-Fny but differing in RNA 3 (the wild type CMV-Fny, a pseudorecombinant CMV-Fny/CMV-S and a chimeric CMV previously obtained by our group, named F, FS and CS, respectively) were propagated in Nicotiana tabacum cv Xanthi plants in order to assess differences in tobacco seed transmission rate and persistence through plant generations in the absence of aphid transmission. Seed-growth tests revealed CMV infection in the embryos, but not in the integuments. Seedlings from seed-growth tests showed the presence of all considered viruses but at different rates: from 4% (F, FS) to 16% (CS). Electron microscopy revealed absence (CS) of viral particles or virions without the typical central hole (F and FS). In agreement, structural characteristics of purified CMV particles, assessed by circular dichroism spectroscopy, showed anomalous spectra of nucleic acids rather than the expected nucleoproteins. These alterations resulted in no seed transmission beyond the first plant generation. Altogether, the results show for the first time that correct virion assembly is needed for seed infection from the mother plant but not to seedling invasion from the seed. We propose that incorrect virion formation, self-assembly and architecture stability might be explained if during the first stages of germination and seedling development some tobacco seed factors target viral regions responsible for protein-RNA interactions.
Development and Characterization of Functional Polylactic Acid/Chitosan Porous Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Osman Miada Abubaker , Virgilio Nick , Rouabhia Mahmoud , Mighri Frej
Published: November 2022

In this study, we developed and characterized various open-cell composite scaffolds for bone regeneration. These scaffolds were made from Polylactic acid (PLA) as the scaffold matrix biopolymeric phase, and chitosan (CS) and chitosan-grafted-PLA (CS-g-PLA) copolymer as the dispersed biopolymeric phase. As a first step, successful grafting of PLA onto CS backbone was executed and confirmed by both FTIR and XPS. Mechanical characterization confirmed that adding CS or CS-g-PLA to the intrinsically rigid PLA made their corresponding PLA/CS and PLA/CS-g-PLA composite scaffolds more flexible under compression. This flexibility was higher for the latter due to the improved compatibility between PLA and CS-g-PLA copolymer. The hydrolytic stability of both PLA/CS and PLA/CS-g-PLA composite scaffolds inside phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution, as well as MG-63 osteoblast cell adhesion and proliferation inside both scaffolds, were characterized. The corresponding results revealed that PLA/CS composite scaffolds showed hydrolytic degradation due to the cationic properties of CS. However, modified PLA/CS-g-PLA scaffolds were hydrolytically stable due to the improved interfacial adhesion between the PLA matrix and CS-g-PLA copolymer. Finally, biological characterization was done for both PLA/CS and PLA/CS-g-PLA composite scaffolds. Contrarily to what was observed for uncompatibilized PLA/CS scaffolds, compatibilized PLA/CS-g-PLA scaffolds showed a high MG-63 osteoblast cell proliferation after three and five days of cell culture. Moreover, it was observed that cell proliferation increased with CS-g-PLA content. This suggests that the PLA/CS-g-PLA composite scaffolds could be a potential solution for bone regeneration.
Post-Fatigue Fracture Resistance of Lithium Disilicate and Polymer-Infiltrated Ceramic Network Indirect Restorations over Endodontically-Treated Molars with Different Preparation Designs: An In-Vitro Study
Authors: Comba Allegra , Baldi Andrea , Carossa Massimo , Michelotto Tempesta Riccardo , Garino Eric , Llubani Xhuliano , Rozzi Davide , Mikonis Julius , Paolone Gaetano , Scotti Nicola
Published: November 2022

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the fatigue to cyclic and static resistance of indirect restorations with different preparation designs made either of lithium disilicate (LS) or polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN). Eighty-four (n = 84) molars were chosen, endodontically treated, and prepared with standardized MOD cavities. The molars were randomly divided into 6 study groups (n = 14) taking into account the “preparation design’’ (occlusal veneer with 1.2 mm occlusal thickness; overlay with 1.6 mm occlusal thickness; adhesive crown with 2 mm occlusal thickness) and the “CAD/CAM material’’ (E-max CAD, Ivoclar vivadent; Vita Enamic, Vita). A fatigue test was conducted with a chewing simulator set at 50 N for 1,500,000 cycles. Fracture resistance was assessed using a universal testing machine with a 6 mm diameter steel sphere applied to the specimens at a constant speed of 1 mm/min. A SEM analysis before the fracture test was performed to visually analyze the tooth-restoration margins. A statistical analysis was performed with a two-way ANOVA and a post-hoc pairwise comparison was performed using the Tukey test. The two-way ANOVA test showed that both the preparation design factor (p = 0.0429) and the CAD/CAM material factor (p = 0.0002) had a significant influence on the fracture resistance of the adhesive indirect restorations. The interaction between the two variables did not show any significance (p = 0.8218). The occlusal veneer had a lower fracture resistance than the adhesive crown (p = 0.042) but not lower than the overlay preparation (p = 0.095). LS was more resistant than PICN (p = 0.002). In conclusion, in the case of endodontically treated teeth, overlay preparation seems to be a valid alternative to the traditional full crown preparation, while occlusal veneers should be avoided in restoring non-vital molars with a high loss of residual tooth structure. LS material is more resistant compared to PICN.
Salt-Induced Transformations of Hybrid Micelles Formed by Anionic Surfactant and Poly(4-vinylpyridine)
Authors: Kwiatkowski Alexander L. , Molchanov Vyacheslav S. , Kuklin Alexander I. , Chesnokov Yuri M. , Philippova Olga E.
Published: November 2022

Salt-induced structural transformation of charged hybrid surfactant/polymer micelles formed by potassium oleate and poly(4-vinylpyridine) was investigated by cryo-TEM, SANS with contrast variation, DLS, and 2D NOESY. Cryo-TEM data show, that at small salt concentration beads-on-string aggregates on polymer chains are formed. KCl induces the transformation of those aggregates into rods, which is due to the screening of the electrostatic repulsion between similarly charged beads by added salt. In a certain range of salt concentration, the beads-on-string aggregates coexist with the rodlike ones. In the presence of polymer, the sphere-to-rod transition occurs at higher salt concentration than in pure surfactant system indicating that hydrophobic polymer favors the spherical packing of potassium oleate molecules. The size of micelles was estimated by DLS. The rods that are formed in the hybrid system are much shorter than those in polymer-free surfactant solution suggesting the stabilization of the semi-spherical endcaps of the rods by embedded polymer. 2D NOESY data evidence that in the spherical aggregates the polymer penetrates deep into the core, whereas in tighter packed rodlike aggregates it is located mainly at core/corona interface. According to SANS with contrast variation, inside the rodlike aggregates the polymer adopts more compact coil conformation than in the beads-on-string aggregates. Such adaptive self-assembled polymer-surfactant nanoparticles with water-insoluble polymer are very promising for various applications including drag reduction at transportation of fluids.
Chemical and Mechanical Properties of Metakaolin-Based Geopolymers with Waste Corundum Powder Resulting from Erosion Testing
Authors: Dal Poggetto Giovanni , Kittisayarm Pakamon , Pintasiri Suphahud , Chiyasak Pongpak , Leonelli Cristina , Chaysuwan Duangrudee
Published: November 2022

Alkali activated binders, based on an aluminosilicate powder that is activated by an alkaline solution, have been proven to encapsulate a wide number of different wastes, both in the form of liquids and solids. In this study, we investigated the effect that the addition of a spent abrasive powder, mainly composed of corundum grains (RC), had on the mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of metakaolin-based geopolymers. The waste was introduced into the geopolymer matrix as a substitute for metakaolin, or added as a filler to the geopolymeric paste. The 3D cross-linking of the geopolymer structure, with and without the presence of the corundum, was investigated via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and ionic conductivity measurements of the eluate that was produced after 24 h of immersion of the sample in water. The RC powder did not significantly modify the matrix reticulation but increased densification, as observed with scanning electron microscopy, and there was increased resistance to compression by 10 wt% addition of RC, and also when added to the paste as a filler at 20 wt%.
Prediction of Critical Buckling Load on Open Cross-Section Columns of Flax/PLA Green Composites
Authors: Jiao-Wang Liu , Puerta-Hueso Sergio , Pedroche David , Santiuste Carlos
Published: November 2022

The present work aims to analyze the buckling behavior of nonlinear elastic columns with different open cross-sections and slenderness ratios to verify the limits of the modified Ludwick law to predict the critical buckling load. The results of the analytical formulation based on the modified Ludwick law are compared with a FEM numerical model using the Marlow hyperelastic behavior and experimental results conducted on flax/PLA specimens with three different open cross-sections. The comparative results show that the numerical predictions agree with the experimental results in all the cases. The FEM model can exactly reproduce the buckling behavior of the C-section columns. However, the prediction errors for the C90 and C180 columns are higher than for the C60 columns. Moreover, the theoretical estimations indicate that the C90 cross-section column is the limit of application of the modified Ludwick law to predict the critical buckling load of nonlinear elastic columns with open cross-sections, and the C180 column is out of the prediction limits. Generally, the numerical and theoretical models underestimated the scattering effects of the predictions because more experimental variables were not considered by the models.