bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dendritic Cells and Antiphospholipid Syndrome: An Updated Systematic Review
Authors: Tang Kuo-Tung , Chen Hsin-Hua , Chen Tzu-Ting , Bracci Nicole R. , Lin Chi-Chien
Published: August 2021

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by autoreactive B and T cells against β2-glycoprotein I (B2GPI), with vascular thrombosis or obstetrical complications. Dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial in the generation of autoimmunity. Here, we conducted a comprehensive systematic review on the relationship between DC and APS. We performed a literature search of PubMed as of 26 March 2021. A total of 33 articles were extracted. DCs are pivotal in inducing inflammatory responses and orchestrating adaptive immunity. DCs contribute to the local inflammation regarding vascular thrombosis or obstetrical complications. Both B2GPI and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) can promote antigen presentation by DCs and the generation or maintenance of autoimmunity. In addition, plasmacytoid DC activation is enhanced by aPL, thereby augmenting the inflammatory response. In line with these findings, DC modulation appears promising as a future treatment for APS. In conclusion, our review indicated the crucial role of DCs in the pathogenesis of APS. Deeper understanding of the complex relationship would help in developing new treatment strategies.
Sweet Potato Leaf Feeding Decreases Cholesterol, Oxidative Stress and Thrombosis Formation in Syrian Hamsters with a High-Cholesterol Diet
Authors: Chang Hao-Hsiang , Lan Yi-Chan , Chung Shiu-Dong , Chien Chiang-Ting
Published: August 2021

Nutritional strategies to reduce hyperlipidemia and the risk of cardiovascular disease are gaining more public favor and medical professionals’ attention. The authors of this study explored the effect of sweet potato leaf powder (SPLP) feeding on the parameters of plasma lipids, reactive oxygen species, and time to thrombosis formation in Syrian hamsters fed with high-cholesterol diets. The animals were separated into six groups: a feeding control diet, a control diet containing 0.1% cholesterol, a control diet containing 0.2% cholesterol, a control diet containing 0.1% cholesterol plus 2.5% SPLP, a control diet containing 0.1% cholesterol plus 5% SPLP, and a control diet containing 0.2% cholesterol plus 5% SPLP for six weeks. The levels of serum total cholesterol (51% increase), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (70.6% increase), very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (51.3% increase), and the triglyceride and atherogenic index (LDL-C/HDL-C) significantly increased in the high-cholesterol diet groups. Concomitant 5% sweet potato leaf powder ingestion significantly decreased the lipid profiles, with a 20.6% total cholesterol reduction in the 0.1% cholesterol diet groups, a 17.2% reduction in the 0.2% group, a 48.7% LDL reduction in the 0.1% cholesterol group, and a 30.3% reduction in the 0.2% group, with a consequent decrease in the atherogenic index. SPLP feeding was found to be associated with increased fecal sterol contents, with a 188.6% increase in the 0.1% cholesterol-fed group and a 177.3% increase in the 0.2% group. The SPLP-fed groups had depressed ROS levels, elongated FeCl3-induced times to thrombosis formation, and increased liver superoxide dismutase contents and SREBP-1 protein expression. Sweet potato leaf intake could reduce plasma total cholesterol, LDL, and oxidative stress. We suggest sweet potato leaf intake as a choice of nutritional strategy for hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular disease prevention.
Rubrene Thin Films with Viably Enhanced Charge Transport Fabricated by Cryo-Matrix-Assisted Laser Evaporation
Authors: Jendrzejewski Rafał , Majewska Natalia , Majumdar Sayani , Sawczak Mirosław , Ryl Jacek , Śliwiński Gerard
Published: August 2021

Among organic semiconductors, rubrene (RB; C42H28) is of rapidly growing interest for the development of organic and hybrid electronics due to exceptionally long spin diffusion length and carrier mobility up to 20 cm2V−1s−1 in single crystals. However, the fabrication of RB thin films resembling properties of the bulk remains challenging, mainly because of the RB molecule’s twisted conformation. This hinders the formation of orthorhombic crystals with strong π–π interactions that support the band transport. In this work, RB films with a high crystalline content were fabricated by matrix-assisted laser evaporation and the associated structure, composition, and transport properties are investigated. Enhanced charge transport is ascribed to the crystalline content of the film. Spherulitic structures are observed on top of an amorphous RB layer formed in the initial deposition stage. In spherulites, orthorhombic crystals dominate, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction and the absorption and Raman spectra. Surprisingly, nanowires several microns in length are also detected. The desorption/ionization mass and X-ray photoelectron spectra consistently show minimal material decomposition and absence of RB peroxides. The observed carrier mobility up to 0.13 cm2V−1s−1, is close to the technologically accepted level, making these rubrene films attractive for spintronic and optoelectronic applications.
Formation of Structure and Properties of Two-Phase Ti-6Al-4V Alloy during Cold Metal Transfer Additive Deposition with Interpass Forging
Authors: Shchitsyn Yuri , Kartashev Maksim , Krivonosova Ekaterina , Olshanskaya Tatyana , Trushnikov Dmitriy
Published: August 2021

The paper deals with the main formation patterns of structure and properties of a titanium alloy of the Ti-6Al-4V system during additive manufacturing using cold metal transfer (CMT) wire deposition. The work aims to find the optimal conditions for layer-by-layer deposition, which provides the high physical and mechanical properties of the titanium alloy of the Ti-6Al-4V system hybrid, additively manufactured using CMT deposition. Particular attention is paid to interpass forging during the layered printing of the product. Additionally, we investigate how the heat treatment affects the structure and properties of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy that has been CMT-deposited, both with and without forging. These studies have shown that the hybrid multilayer arc deposition technology, with interpass strain hardening, allows the use of high temperature and high technology titanium alloys to obtain products of a required geometric shape. It has been proven that the interpass deformation effect during CMT deposition contributes to a significant decrease in the sizes of the primary β-grains. In addition, forging enhances the effect of microstructure refinement, which is associated with phase recrystallization in deformed areas. It is shown that the heat treatment leads not only to a change in the morphology of the phases but also to additional phase formations in the structure of the Ti-6Al-4V-deposited metal while the mechanism is realized and consists of the gradual decomposition of the martensitic α′-phase and the formation of a dispersive α2-phase. This structure formation process is accompanied by the dispersion hardening of the α-phase. The strength characteristics of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy obtained using layer-by-layer CMT with forging are given; they exceed the strength level of materials obtained with the traditional technologies of pressure treatment, and there is no decrease in plasticity characteristics. The use of the subsequent heat treatment makes it possible to increase the ductility characteristics of the deposited and forged Ti-6Al-4V material by 1.5–2 times without strength loss.
Oxygen Vacancy Dynamics in Highly Crystalline Zinc Oxide Film Investigated by PIERS Effect
Authors: Barbillon Grégory
Published: August 2021

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is commonly employed as an analysis or detection tool of biological and chemical molecules. Recently, an alternative section of the SERS field has appeared, called photo-induced enhanced Raman spectroscopy (PIERS). This PIERS effect is based on the production of the oxygen vacancies (V0) in metal-oxide semiconductor thin-film (or other structures) by irradiation with UV light, thus enabling a Raman signal enhancement of chemical molecules through charge transfer processes between this photo-irradiated semiconductor film (or other structures) and these chemical molecules via metallic nanoparticles deposited on this photo-irradiated substrate. The PIERS technique can enable studying the dynamics of the oxygen vacancies under ambient and operando conditions compared to conventional tools of analysis. In this paper, we present the results obtained on the formation and healing rates of surface oxygen vacancies (V0) in a highly crystalline ZnO film investigated by the PIERS effect, and we compare these results to the literature in order to study the effect of the crystallinity on these formation and healing rates of V0 in a ZnO film.
Modeling of the Human Bone Environment: Mechanical Stimuli Guide Mesenchymal Stem Cell–Extracellular Matrix Interactions
Authors: Pereira Ana Rita , Lipphaus Andreas , Ergin Mert , Salehi Sahar , Gehweiler Dominic , Rudert Maximilian , Hansmann Jan , Herrmann Marietta
Published: August 2021

In bone tissue engineering, the design of in vitro models able to recreate both the chemical composition, the structural architecture, and the overall mechanical environment of the native tissue is still often neglected. In this study, we apply a bioreactor system where human bone-marrow hMSCs are seeded in human femoral head-derived decellularized bone scaffolds and subjected to dynamic culture, i.e., shear stress induced by continuous cell culture medium perfusion at 1.7 mL/min flow rate and compressive stress by 10% uniaxial load at 1 Hz for 1 h per day. In silico modeling revealed that continuous medium flow generates a mean shear stress of 8.5 mPa sensed by hMSCs seeded on 3D bone scaffolds. Experimentally, both dynamic conditions improved cell repopulation within the scaffold and boosted ECM production compared with static controls. Early response of hMSCs to mechanical stimuli comprises evident cell shape changes and stronger integrin-mediated adhesion to the matrix. Stress-induced Col6 and SPP1 gene expression suggests an early hMSC commitment towards osteogenic lineage independent of Runx2 signaling. This study provides a foundation for exploring the early effects of external mechanical stimuli on hMSC behavior in a biologically meaningful in vitro environment, opening new opportunities to study bone development, remodeling, and pathologies.
Characterisation of Microparticle Waste from Dental Resin-Based Composites
Authors: Mulligan Steven , Ojeda Jesús J. , Kakonyi Gabriella , Thornton Steven F. , Moharamzadeh Keyvan , Martin Nicolas
Published: August 2021

Clinical applications of resin-based composite (RBC) generate environmental pollution in the form of microparticulate waste. Methods: SEM, particle size and specific surface area analysis, FT-IR and potentiometric titrations were used to characterise microparticles arising from grinding commercial and control RBCs as a function of time, at time of generation and after 12 months ageing in water. The RBCs were tested in two states: (i) direct-placement materials polymerised to simulate routine clinical use and (ii) pre-polymerised CAD/CAM ingots milled using CAD/CAM technology. Results: The maximum specific surface area of the direct-placement commercial RBC was seen after 360 s of agitation and was 1290 m2/kg compared with 1017 m2/kg for the control material. The median diameter of the direct-placement commercial RBC was 6.39 μm at 360 s agitation and 9.55 μm for the control material. FTIR analysis confirmed that microparticles were sufficiently unique to be identified after 12 months ageing and consistent alteration of the outermost surfaces of particles was observed. Protonation-deprotonation behaviour and the pH of zero proton charge (pHzpc) ≈ 5–6 indicated that the particles are negatively charged at neutral pH7. Conclusion: The large surface area of RBC microparticles allows elution of constituent monomers with potential environmental impacts. Characterisation of this waste is key to understanding potential mitigation strategies.
Starch Solutions Prepared under Different Conditions as Modifiers of Chitosan/Poly(aspartic acid)-Based Hydrogels
Authors: Głąb Magdalena , Drabczyk Anna , Kudłacik-Kramarczyk Sonia , Duarte Guigou Martin , Makara Agnieszka , Gajda Paweł , Jampilek Josef , Tyliszczak Bożena
Published: August 2021

Recently, there has been great interest in the application of polysaccharides in the preparation of diverse biomaterials which result from their biocompatibility, biodegradability and biological activity. In this work, the investigations on chitosan/poly(aspartic acid)-based hydrogels modified with starch were described. Firstly, a series of hydrogel matrices was prepared and investigated to characterize their swelling properties, structure via FT-IR spectroscopy, elasticity and tensile strength using the Brookfield texture analyzer as well as their impact on simulated physiological liquids. Hydrogels consisting of chitosan and poly(aspartic acid) in a 2:1 volume ratio were elastic (9% elongation), did not degrade after 30-day incubation in simulated physiological liquids, exhibited a relative biocompatibility towards these liquids and similar swelling in each absorbed medium. This hydrogel matrix was modified with starch wherein two of its form were applied—a solution obtained at an elevated temperature and a suspension obtained at room temperature. Hydrogels modified with hot starch solution showed higher sorption that unmodified materials. This was probably due to the higher starch inclusion (i.e., a larger number of hydrophilic groups able to interact with the adsorbed liquid) when this polysaccharide was given in the form of a hot solution. Hydrogels modified with a cold starch suspension had visible heterogeneous inequalities on their surfaces and this modification led to the obtainment materials with unrepeatable structures which made the analysis of their properties difficult and may have led to misleading conclusions.
Potential Applications of Arthrospira platensis Lipid-Free Biomass in Bioremediation of Organic Dye from Industrial Textile Effluents and Its Influence on Marine Rotifer (Brachionus plicatilis)
Authors: Alprol Ahmed E. , Heneash Ahmed M. M. , Ashour Mohamed , Abualnaja Khamael M. , Alhashmialameer Dalal , Mansour Abdallah Tageldein , Sharawy Zaki Z. , Abu-Saied Mouhamed A. , Abomohra Abd El-Fatah
Published: August 2021

Arthrospira platensis is one of the most important cultured microalgal species in the world. Arthrospira complete dry biomass (ACDB) has been reported as an interesting feedstock for many industries, including biodiesel production. The A. platensis by-product of biodiesel production (lipid-free biomass; LFB) is a source of proteins, functional molecules, and carbohydrates, and can also be reused in several applications. The current study investigated the efficiency of ACDB and LFB in bioremediation of dye (Ismate violet 2R, IV2R) from textile effluents. In addition, the potential of ACDB and LFB loaded by IV2R as a feed for Rotifer, Brachionus plicatilis, was examined. The surface of the adsorbents was characterized by SEM, FTIR, and Raman analysis to understand the adsorption mechanism. The batch sorption method was examined as a function of adsorbent dose (0.02–0.01 g L−1), solution initial concentration (10–100 mg L−1), pH (2–10), and contact time (15–180 min). The kinetic studies and adsorption isotherm models (Freundlich, Langmuir, Tempkin, and Halsey) were used to describe the interaction between dye and adsorbents. The results concluded that the adsorption process increased with increasing ACDB and LFB dose, contact time (120 min), initial IV2R concentration (10 mg L−1), and acidity pH (2 and 6, respectively). For the elimination of industrial textile wastewater, the ACDB and LFB sorbents have good elimination ability of a dye solution by 75.7% and 61.11%, respectively. The kinetic interaction between dye and adsorbents fitted well to Langmuir, Freundlish, and Halsey models for LFB, and Langmuir for ACDB at optimum conditions with R2 > 0.9. In addition, based on the bioassay study, the ACDB and LFB loaded by IV2R up to 0.02 g L−1 may be used as feed for the marine Rotifer B. plicatilis.
A Systematic Literature Review on Waste-to-Resource Potential of Palm Oil Clinker for Sustainable Engineering and Environmental Applications
Authors: Jagaba Ahmad Hussaini , Kutty Shamsul Rahman Mohamed , Hayder Gasim , Baloo Lavania , Noor Azmatullah , Yaro Nura Shehu Aliyu , Saeed Anwar Ameen Hezam , Lawal Ibrahim Mohammed , Birniwa Abdullahi Haruna , Usman Abdullahi Kilaco
Published: August 2021

Several agro-waste materials have been utilized for sustainable engineering and environmental application over the past decades, showing different degrees of effectiveness. However, information concerning the wider use of palm oil clinker (POC) and its performance is still lacking. Therefore, as a solid waste byproduct produced in one of the oil palm processing stages, generating a huge quantity of waste mostly dumped into the landfill, the waste-to-resource potential of POC should be thoroughly discussed in a review. Thus, this paper provides a systematic review of the current research articles on the several advances made from 2005 to 2021 regarding palm oil clinker physical properties and performances, with a particular emphasis on their commitments to cost savings during environmental and engineering applications. The review begins by identifying the potential of POC application in conventional and geopolymer structural elements such as beams, slabs, and columns made of concrete, mortar, or paste for coarse aggregates, sand, and cement replacement. Aspects such as performance of POC in wastewater treatment processes, fine aggregate and cement replacement in asphaltic and bituminous mixtures during highway construction, a bio-filler in coatings for steel manufacturing processes, and a catalyst during energy generation are also discussed. This review further describes the effectiveness of POC in soil stabilization and the effect of POC pretreatment for performance enhancement. The present review can inspire researchers to find research gaps that will aid the sustainable use of agroindustry wastes. The fundamental knowledge contained in this review can also serve as a wake-up call for researchers that will motivate them to explore the high potential of utilizing POC for greater environmental benefits associated with less cost when compared with conventional materials.
Models of Strategic Decision-Making under Informational Control
Authors: Novikov Dmitry
Published: August 2021

A general complex model is considered for collective dynamical strategic decision-making with explicitly interconnected factors reflecting both psychic (internal state) and behavioral (external-action, result of activity) components of agents’ activity under the given environmental and control factors. This model unifies and generalizes approaches of game theory, social psychology, theories of multi-agent systems, and control in organizational systems by simultaneous consideration of both internal and external parameters of the agents. Two special models (of informational control and informational confrontation) contain formal results on controllability and properties of equilibriums. Interpretations of a general model are conformity (threshold behavior), consensus, cognitive dissonance, and other effects with applications to production systems, multi-agent systems, crowd behavior, online social networks, and voting in small and large groups.
Tool Wear Analysis during Ultrasonic Assisted Turning of Nimonic-90 under Dry and Wet Conditions
Authors: Airao Jay , Nirala Chandrakant K. , Lacalle Luis Noberto López de , Khanna Navneet
Published: August 2021

Nickel-based superalloys are widely used in the aerospace, automotive, marine and medical sectors, owing to their high mechanical strength and corrosion resistance. However, they exhibit poor machinability due to low thermal conductivity, high shear modulus, strain hardening, etc. Various modifications have been incorporated into existing machining techniques to address these issues. One such modification is the incorporation of ultrasonic assistance to turning operations. The assisted process is popularly known as ultrasonic assisted turning (UAT), and uses ultrasonic vibration to the processing zone to cut the material. The present article investigates the effect of ultrasonic vibration on coated carbide tool wear for machining Nimonic-90 under dry and wet conditions. UAT and conventional turning (CT) were performed at constant cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut. The results show that the main wear mechanisms were abrasion, chipping, notch wear and adhesion of the built-up edge in both processes. However, by using a coolant, the formation of the built-up edge was reduced. CT and UAT under dry conditions showed an approximate reduction of 20% in the width of flank wear compared to CT and UAT under wet conditions. UAT showed approximate reductions of 6–20% in cutting force and 13–27% in feed force compared to the CT process. The chips formed during UAT were thinner, smoother and shorter than those formed during CT.
Advanced Self-Passivating Alloys for an Application under Extreme Conditions
Authors: Litnovsky Andrey , Klein Felix , Tan Xiaoyue , Ertmer Janina , Coenen Jan W. , Linsmeier Christian , Gonzalez-Julian Jesus , Bram Martin , Povstugar Ivan , Morgan Thomas , Gasparyan Yury M. , Suchkov Alexey , Bachurina Diana , Nguyen-Manh Duc , Gilbert Mark , Sobieraj Damian , Wróbel Jan S. , Tejado Elena , Matejicek Jiri , Zoz Henning , Benz Hans Ulrich , Bittner Pawel , Reuban Anicha
Published: August 2021

Self-passivating Metal Alloys with Reduced Thermo-oxidation (SMART) are under development for the primary application as plasma-facing materials for the first wall in a fusion DEMOnstration power plant (DEMO). SMART materials must combine suppressed oxidation in case of an accident and an acceptable plasma performance during the regular operation of the future power plant. Modern SMART materials contain chromium as a passivating element, yttrium as an active element and a tungsten base matrix. An overview of the research and development program on SMART materials is presented and all major areas of the structured R&D are explained. Attaining desired performance under accident and regular plasma conditions are vital elements of an R&D program addressing the viability of the entire concept. An impressive more than 104-fold suppression of oxidation, accompanied with more than 40-fold suppression of sublimation of tungsten oxide, was attained during an experimentally reproduced accident event with a duration of 10 days. The sputtering resistance under DEMO-relevant plasma conditions of SMART materials and pure tungsten was identical for conditions corresponding to nearly 20 days of continuous DEMO operation. Fundamental understanding of physics processes undergone in the SMART material is gained via fundamental studies comprising dedicated modeling and experiments. The important role of yttrium, stabilizing the SMART alloy microstructure and improving self-passivating behavior, is under investigation. Activities toward industrial up-scale have begun, comprising the first mechanical alloying with an industrial partner and the sintering of a bulk SMART alloy sample with dimensions of 100 mm × 100 mm × 7 mm using an industrial facility. These achievements open the way to further expansion of the SMART technology toward its application in fusion and potentially in other renewable energy sources such as concentrated solar power stations.
Osteocalcin Is Independently Associated with C-Reactive Protein during Lifestyle-Induced Weight Loss in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Zimmermann Silke , Costa Maria Beatriz Walter , Mathew Akash , Krishnan Shruthi , Schneider Jochen G. , Roomp Kirsten , Isermann Berend , Biemann Ronald
Published: August 2021

Bone-derived osteocalcin has been suggested to be a metabolic regulator. To scrutinize the relation between osteocalcin and peripheral insulin sensitivity, we analyzed changes in serum osteocalcin relative to changes in insulin sensitivity, low-grade inflammation, and bone mineral density following lifestyle-induced weight loss in individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Participants with MetS were randomized to a weight loss program or to a control group. Before and after the 6-month intervention period, clinical and laboratory parameters and serum osteocalcin levels were determined. Changes in body composition were analyzed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). In participants of the intervention group, weight loss resulted in improved insulin sensitivity and amelioration of inflammation. Increased serum levels of osteocalcin correlated inversely with BMI (r = −0.63; p< 0.001), total fat mass (r = −0.58, p < 0.001), total lean mass (r = −0.45, p < 0.001), C-reactive protein (CRP) (r = −0.37; p < 0.01), insulin (r = −0.4; p < 0.001), leptin (r = −0.53; p < 0.001), triglycerides (r = −0.42; p < 0.001), and alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) (r = −0.52; p < 0.001). Regression analysis revealed that osteocalcin was independently associated with changes in CRP but not with changes in insulin concentration, fat mass, or bone mineral density, suggesting that weight loss-induced higher serum osteocalcin is primarily associated with reduced inflammation.
Resolution-Enhancing Structure for the Electric Field Microsensor Chip
Authors: Wen Xiaolong , Yang Pengfei , Zhang Zhouwei , Chu Zhaozhi , Peng Chunrong , Liu Yutao , Wu Shuang , Zhang Bo , Zheng Fengjie
Published: August 2021

Electrostatic voltage is a vital parameter in industrial production lines, for reducing electrostatic discharge harms and improving yields. Due to such drawbacks as package shielding and low resolution, previously reported electric field microsensors are still not applicable for industrial static monitoring uses. In this paper, we introduce a newly designed microsensor package structure, which enhances the field strength inside the package cavity remarkably. This magnification effect was studied and optimized by both theoretical calculation and ANSYS simulation. By means of the digital synthesizer and digital coherent demodulation method, the compact signal processing circuit for the packaged microsensor was also developed. The meter prototype was calibrated above a charged metal plate, and the electric field resolution was 5 V/m, while the measuring error was less than 3 V, from −1 kV to 1 kV in a 2 cm distance. The meter was also installed into a production line and showed good consistency with, and better resolution than, a traditional vibratory capacitance sensor.
Demagnetization Effect in a Meander-Core Orthogonal Fluxgate Sensor
Authors: Zhi Shaotao , Sun Xuecheng , Zhang Qiaozhen , Chen Jie , Zhang Xiangfen , Chen Hongyu , Lei Chong
Published: August 2021

Demagnetization effect plays an important role in the magnetic core design of the orthogonal fluxgate sensor. In this paper, a meander-core orthogonal fluxgate sensor based on amorphous ribbon is described. The demagnetization model of meander-core structures is established, and the average demagnetization factor can be evaluated by finite element modeling. Simulation and experimental analyses were performed to study the effects of demagnetization on the sensitivity and linear range of orthogonal fluxgate sensors in the fundamental mode by varying the number of strips, the line width, and the spacing of the meander-cores. The results were compared and revealed a very close match. The results show that the demagnetization factor increases with an increase in the number of strips and the line width, which leads to an increase in the linear range of the sensors. The sensitivity can be improved by increasing the number of strips appropriately, however, it is reduced when the line width increases. Smaller spacing results in a larger demagnetization factor due to the magnetic interactions between adjacent strips, which reduces the sensitivity of the sensor. The results obtained here from simulations and experiments are useful for designing magnetic sensors with similar structures.
A Review of the Phyllosilicates in Gale Crater as Detected by the CheMin Instrument on the Mars Science Laboratory, Curiosity Rover
Authors: Tu Valerie M. , Rampe Elizabeth B. , Bristow Thomas F. , Thorpe Michael T. , Clark Joanna V. , Castle Nicholas , Fraeman Abigail A. , Edgar Lauren A. , McAdam Amy , Bedford Candice , Achilles Cherie N. , Blake David , Chipera Steve J. , Craig Patricia I. , Des Marais David J. , Downs Gordon W. , Downs Robert T. , Fox Valerie , Grotzinger John P. , Hazen Robert M. , Ming Douglas W. , Morris Richard V. , Morrison Shaunna M. , Pavri Betina , Eigenbrode Jennifer , Peretyazhko Tanya S. , Sarrazin Philippe C. , Sutter Brad , Treiman Allan H. , Vaniman David T. , Vasavada Ashwin R. , Yen Albert S. , Bridges John C.
Published: August 2021

Curiosity, the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) rover, landed on Mars in August 2012 to investigate the ~3.5-billion-year-old (Ga) fluvio-lacustrine sedimentary deposits of Aeolis Mons (informally known as Mount Sharp) and the surrounding plains (Aeolis Palus) in Gale crater. After nearly nine years, Curiosity has traversed over 25 km, and the Chemistry and Mineralogy (CheMin) X-ray diffraction instrument on-board Curiosity has analyzed 30 drilled rock and three scooped soil samples to date. The principal strategic goal of the mission is to assess the habitability of Mars in its ancient past. Phyllosilicates are common in ancient Martian terrains dating to ~3.5–4 Ga and were detected from orbit in some of the lower strata of Mount Sharp. Phyllosilicates on Earth are important for harboring and preserving organics. On Mars, phyllosilicates are significant for exploration as they are hypothesized to be a marker for potential habitable environments. CheMin data demonstrate that ancient fluvio-lacustrine rocks in Gale crater contain up to ~35 wt. % phyllosilicates. Phyllosilicates are key indicators of past fluid–rock interactions, and variation in the structure and composition of phyllosilicates in Gale crater suggest changes in past aqueous environments that may have been habitable to microbial life with a variety of possible energy sources.
Progressive Low-Grade Metamorphism Reconstructed from the Raman Spectroscopy of Carbonaceous Material and an EBSD Analysis of Quartz in the Sanbagawa Metamorphic Event, Central Japan
Authors: Hara Hidetoshi , Mori Hiroshi , Tominaga Kohei , Nobe Yuki
Published: August 2021

Low-grade metamorphic temperature conditions associated with the Sanbagawa metamorphic event were estimated by the Raman spectroscopy of carbonaceous material (RSCM) in pelitic rocks and an electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis of the quartz in siliceous rocks. Analytical samples were collected from the Sanbagawa metamorphic complex, the Mikabu greenstones, and the Chichibu accretionary complex in the eastern Kanto Mountains, central Japan. Previously, low-grade Sanbagawa metamorphism was only broadly recognized as pumpellyite–actinolite facies assigned to the chlorite zone. The RSCM results indicate metamorphic temperatures of 358 °C and 368 °C for the chlorite zone and 387 °C for the garnet zone of the Sanbagawa metamorphic complex, 315 °C for the Mikabu greenstones, and 234–266 °C for the Chichibu accretionary complex. From the EBSD analyses, the diameter of the quartz grains calculated by the root mean square (RMS) approximation ranges from 55.9 to 69.0 μm for the Sanbagawa metamorphic complex, 9.5 to 23.5 μm for the Mikabu greenstones, and 2.9 to 7.3 μm for the Chichibu accretionary complex. The opening angles of the c-axis fabric approximate 40–50°, presenting temperatures of 324–393 °C for the Sanbagawa metamorphic complex and the Mikabu greenstones. The temperature conditions show a continuous increase with no apparent gaps from these low-grade metamorphosed rocks. In addition, there exists an empirical exponential relationship between the estimated metamorphic temperatures and the RMS values of the quartz grains. In this study, integrated analyses of multiple rock types provided valuable information on progressive low-grade metamorphism and a similar approach may be applied to study other metamorphic complexes.
Effect of the Distillation Time on the Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Potential and Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils from Different Cannabis sativa L. Cultivars
Authors: Palmieri Sara , Maggio Francesca , Pellegrini Marika , Ricci Antonella , Serio Annalisa , Paparella Antonello , Lo Sterzo Claudio
Published: August 2021

Within the unavoidable variability of various origins in the characteristics of essential oils, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the distillation time on the chemical composition and biological activity of Cannabis sativa essential oils (EOs). The dry inflorescences came from Carmagnola, Kompolti, Futura 75, Gran Sasso Kush and Carmagnola Lemon varieties from Abruzzo region (Central Italy), the last two being new cultivar here described for the first time. EOs were collected at 2 h and 4 h of distillation; GC/MS technique was applied to characterize their volatile fraction. The EOs were evaluated for total polyphenol content (TPC), antioxidant capacity (AOC) and antimicrobial activity against food-borne pathogens and spoilage bacteria. The time of distillation particularly influenced EOs chemical composition, extracting more or less terpenic components, but generally enriching with minor sesquiterpenes and cannabidiol. A logical response in ratio of time was observed for antioxidant potential, being the essential oils at 4 h of distillation more active than those distilled for 2 h, and particularly Futura 75. Conversely, except for Futura 75, the effect of time on the antimicrobial activity was variable and requires further investigations; nevertheless, the inhibitory activity of all EOs against Pseudomonas fluorescens P34 was an interesting result.
Effect of Graphene Characteristics on Morphology and Performance of Composite Noble Metal-Reduced Graphene Oxide SERS Substrate
Authors: Kostadinova Tajana , Politakos Nikolaos , Trajcheva Ana , Blazevska-Gilev Jadranka , Tomovska Radmila
Published: August 2021

Graphene/noble metal substrates for surface enhanced RAMAN scattering (SERS) possess synergistically improved performance, due to the strong chemical enhancement mechanism accounted to graphene and the electromagnetic mechanism raised from the metal nanoparticles. However, only the effect of noble metal nanoparticles characteristics on the SERS performance was studied so far. In attempts to bring a light to the effect of quality of graphene, in this work, two different graphene oxides were selected, slightly oxidized GOS (20%) with low aspect ratio (1000) and highly oxidized (50%) GOG with high aspect ratio (14,000). GO and precursors for noble metal nanoparticles (NP) simultaneous were reduced, resulting in rGO decorated with AgNPs and AuNPs. The graphene characteristics affected the size, shape, and packing of nanoparticles. The oxygen functionalities actuated as nucleation sites for AgNPs, thus GOG was decorated with higher number and smaller size AgNPs than GOS. Oppositely, AuNPs preferred bare graphene surface, thus GOS was covered with smaller size, densely packed nanoparticles, resulting in the best SERS performance. Fluorescein in concentration of 10−7 M was detected with enhancement factor of 82 × 104. This work demonstrates that selection of graphene is additional tool toward powerful SERS substrates.
Spectroscopic Studies of Quinobenzothiazine Derivative in Terms of the In Vitro Interaction with Selected Human Plasma Proteins. Part 1
Authors: Owczarzy Aleksandra , Zięba Andrzej , Pożycka Jadwiga , Kulig Karolina , Rogóż Wojciech , Szkudlarek Agnieszka , Maciążek-Jurczyk Małgorzata
Published: August 2021

Plasma proteins play a fundamental role in living organisms. They participate in the transport of endogenous and exogenous substances, especially drugs. 5-alkyl-12(H)-quino[3,4-b][1,4]benzothiazinium salts, have been synthesized as potential anticancer substances used for cancer treatment. Most anticancer substances generate a toxic effect on the human body. In order to check the toxicity and therapeutic dosage of these chemicals, the study of ligand binding to plasma proteins is very relevant. The present work presents the first comparative analysis of the binding of one of the 5-alkyl-12(H)-quino[3,4-b][1,4]benzothiazinium derivatives (Salt1) with human serum albumin (HSA), α-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) and human gamma globulin (HGG), assessed using fluorescence, UV-Vis and CD spectroscopy. In order to mimic in vivo ligand–protein binding, control normal serum (CNS) was used. Based on the obtained data, the Salt1 binding sites in the tertiary structure of all plasma proteins and control normal serum were identified. Both the association constants (Ka) and the number of binding site classes (n) were calculated using the Klotz method. The strongest complex formed was Salt1–AGPcomplex (Ka = 7.35·104 and 7.86·104 mol·L−1 at excitation wavelengths λex of 275 and 295 nm, respectively). Lower values were obtained for Salt1–HSAcomplex (Ka = 2.45·104 and 2.71·104 mol·L−1) and Salt1–HGGcomplex (Ka = 1.41·104 and 1.33·104 mol·L−1) at excitation wavelengths λex of 275 and 295 nm, respectively, which is a positive phenomenon and contributes to the prolonged action of the drug. Salt1 probably binds to the HSA molecule in Sudlow sites I and II; for the remaining plasma proteins studied, only one binding site was observed. Moreover, using circular dichroism (CD), fluorescence and UV-Vis spectroscopy, no effect on the secondary and tertiary structures of proteins in the absence or presence of Salt1 has been demonstrated. Despite the fact that the conducted studies are basic, from the scientific point of view they are novel and encourage further in vitro and in vivo investigations. As a next part of the study (Part 2), the second new synthetized quinobenzothiazine derivative (Salt2) will be analyzed and published.
Screening Papaveraceae as Novel Antibiofilm Natural-Based Agents
Authors: Zielińska Sylwia , Dziągwa-Becker Magdalena , Junka Adam , Piątczak Ewelina , Jezierska-Domaradzka Anna , Brożyna Malwina , Paleczny Justyna , Sobiecka Aleksandra , Słupski Wojciech , Mess Eleonora , Kucharski Mariusz , Çiçek Serhat Sezai , Zidorn Christian , Matkowski Adam
Published: August 2021

The antimicrobial properties of herbs from Papaveraceae have been used in medicine for centuries. Nevertheless, mutual relationships between the individual bioactive substances contained in these plants remain poorly elucidated. In this work, phytochemical composition of extracts from the aerial and underground parts of five Papaveraceae species (Chelidonium majus L., Corydalis cava (L.) Schweigg. and Körte, C. cheilanthifolia Hemsl., C. pumila (Host) Rchb., and Fumaria vaillantii Loisel.) were examined using LC-ESI-MS/MS with a triple quadrupole analyzer. Large differences in the quality and quantity of all analyzed compounds were observed between species of different genera and also within one genus. Two groups of metabolites predominated in the phytochemical profiles. These were isoquinoline alkaloids and, in smaller amounts, non-phenolic carboxylic acids and phenolic compounds. In aerial and underground parts, 22 and 20 compounds were detected, respectively. These included: seven isoquinoline alkaloids: protopine, allocryptopine, coptisine, berberine, chelidonine, sanguinarine, and chelerythrine; five of their derivatives as well as non-alkaloids: malic acid, trans-aconitic acid, quinic acid, salicylic acid, trans-caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol; and vanillin. The aerial parts were much richer in phenolic compounds regardless of the plant species. Characterized extracts were studied for their antimicrobial potential against planktonic and biofilm-producing cells of S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans. The impact of the extracts on cellular metabolic activity and biofilm biomass production was evaluated. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity of the extracts introduced to the polymeric carrier made of bacterial cellulose was assessed. Extracts of C. cheilanthifolia were found to be the most effective against all tested human pathogens. Multiple regression tests indicated a high antimicrobial impact of quercetin in extracts of aerial parts against planktonic cells of S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans, and no direct correlation between the composition of other bioactive substances and the results of antimicrobial activity were found. Conclusively, further investigations are required to identify the relations between recognized and unrecognized compounds within extracts and their biological properties.
Anastatin Derivatives Alleviate Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury via Antioxidative Properties
Authors: Fu Ying , Zhao Cai , Saxu Rengui , Yao Chaoran , Zhao Lianbo , Zheng Weida , Yu Peng , Teng Yuou
Published: August 2021

(±)-Anastatins A and B are flavonoids isolated from Anastatica hierochuntica. In a previous study, twenty-four di- and tri-substituted novel derivatives of anastatins were designed and their preliminary antioxidant activities were evaluated. In the present study, the protective effect of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) and the systematic antioxidant capacity of 24 derivatives were further studied. Compound 13 was the most potent among all the compounds studied, which increased the survival of H9c2 cells to 80.82%. The antioxidant capability of compound 13 was evaluated in ferric reducing antioxidant power, 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assays. It was observed that compound 13 significantly reduced infarcted areas and improved histopathological and electrocardiogram changes in rats with myocardial I/R injury. Moreover, compound 13 decreased the leakage rates of serum lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, and malonyldialdehyde from rat myocardial tissues and increased the level of glutathione and superoxide dismutase activities following myocardial I/R injury in rats. Taken together, we concluded that compound 13 had potent cardioprotective effects against myocardial I/R injury both in vitro and in vivo owing to its extensive antioxidant activities.
The Effect of Cluster Size on the Intra-Cluster Ionic Polymerization Process
Authors: Rossich Molina Estefania , Stein Tamar
Published: August 2021

Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widespread in the interstellar medium (ISM). The abundance and relevance of PAHs call for a clear understanding of their formation mechanisms, which, to date, have not been completely deciphered. Of particular interest is the formation of benzene, the basic building block of PAHs. It has been shown that the ionization of neutral clusters can lead to an intra-cluster ionic polymerization process that results in molecular growth. Ab-initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) studies in clusters consisting of 3–6 units of acetylene modeling ionization events under ISM conditions have shown maximum aggregation of three acetylene molecules forming bonded C6H6+ species; the larger the number of acetylene molecules, the higher the production of C6H6+. These results lead to the question of whether clusters larger than those studied thus far promote aggregation beyond three acetylene units and whether larger clusters can result in higher C6H6+ production. In this study, we report results from AIMD simulations modeling the ionization of 10 and 20 acetylene clusters. The simulations show aggregation of up to four acetylene units producing bonded C8H8+. Interestingly, C8H8+ bicyclic species were identified, setting a precedent for their astrochemical identification. Comparable reactivity rates were shown with 10 and 20 acetylene clusters.
Impact of Different Biochars on Microbial Community Structure in the Rhizospheric Soil of Rice Grown in Albic Soil
Authors: Yin Dawei , Li Hongyu , Wang Haize , Guo Xiaohong , Wang Zhihui , Lv Yandong , Ding Guohua , Jin Liang , Lan Yu
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to clarify the effects of biochar on the diversity of bacteria and fungi in the rice root zone and to reveal the changes in soil microbial community structure in the root zone after biochar application to provide a scientific basis for the improvement of albic soil. Rice and corn stalk biochar were mixed with albic soil in a pot experiment. Soil samples were collected at the rice maturity stage, soil nutrients were determined, and genomic DNA was extracted. The library was established using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. The abundance, diversity index, and community structure of the soil bacterial 16SrRNA gene V3 + V4 region and the fungal internal transcribed spacer-1 (ITS1) region were analyzed using Illumina second-generation high-throughput sequencing technology on the MiSeq platform with related bioinformatics. The results revealed that the biochar increased the soil nutrient content of albic soil. The bacteria ACE indexes of treatments of rice straw biochar (SD) and corn straw biochar (SY) were increased by 3.10% and 2.06%, respectively, and the fungi ACE and Chao indices of SD were increased by 7.86% and 14.16%, respectively, compared to conventional control treatment with no biochar (SBCK). The numbers of bacterial and fungal operational taxonomic units (OUT) in SD and SY were increased, respectively, compared to that of SBCK. The relationship between soil bacteria and fungi in the biochar-treated groups was stronger than that in the SBCK. The bacterial and fungal populations were correlated with soil nutrients, which suggested that the impacts of biochar on the soil bacteria and fungi community were indirectly driven by alternation of soil nutrient characteristics. The addition of two types of biochar altered the soil microbial community structure and the effect of rice straw biochar treatment on SD was more pronounced. This study aimed to provide a reference and basic understanding for albic soil improvement by biochar, with good application prospects.
Role of Honey in Advanced Wound Care
Authors: Scepankova Hana , Combarros-Fuertes Patricia , Fresno José María , Tornadijo María Eugenia , Dias Miguel Sousa , Pinto Carlos A. , Saraiva Jorge A. , Estevinho Letícia M.
Published: August 2021

Honey is a natural product rich in several phenolic compounds, enzymes, and sugars with antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial potential. Indeed, the development of honey-based adhesives for wound care and other biomedical applications are topics being widely investigated over the years. Some of the advantages of the use of honey for wound-healing solutions are the acceleration of dermal repair and epithelialization, angiogenesis promotion, immune response promotion and the reduction in healing-related infections with pathogenic microorganisms. This paper reviews the main role of honey on the development of wound-healing-based applications, the main compounds responsible for the healing capacity, how the honey origin can influence the healing properties, also highlighting promising results in in vitro and in vivo trials. The challenges in the use of honey for wound healing are also covered and discussed. The delivery methodology (direct application, incorporated in fibrous membranes and hydrogels) is also presented and discussed.