bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic View on Human Healthspan: A Lipidome-Wide Association Study
Authors: Carrard Justin , Gallart-Ayala Hector , Infanger Denis , Teav Tony , Wagner Jonathan , Knaier Raphael , Colledge Flora , Streese Lukas , Königstein Karsten , Hinrichs Timo , Hanssen Henner , Ivanisevic Julijana , Schmidt-Trucksäss Arno
Published: April 2021

As ageing is a major risk factor for the development of non-communicable diseases, extending healthspan has become a medical and societal necessity. Precise lipid phenotyping that captures metabolic individuality could support healthspan extension strategies. This study applied ‘omic-scale lipid profiling to characterise sex-specific age-related differences in the serum lipidome composition of healthy humans. A subset of the COmPLETE-Health study, composed of 73 young (25.2 ± 2.6 years, 43% female) and 77 aged (73.5 ± 2.3 years, 48% female) clinically healthy individuals, was investigated, using an untargeted liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry approach. Compared to their younger counterparts, aged females and males exhibited significant higher levels in 138 and 107 lipid species representing 15 and 13 distinct subclasses, respectively. Percentage of difference ranged from 5.8% to 61.7% (females) and from 5.3% to 46.0% (males), with sphingolipid and glycerophophospholipid species displaying the greatest amplitudes. Remarkably, specific sphingolipid and glycerophospholipid species, previously described as cardiometabolically favourable, were found elevated in aged individuals. Furthermore, specific ether-glycerophospholipid and lyso-glycerophosphocholine species displayed higher levels in aged females only, revealing a more favourable lipidome evolution in females. Altogether, age determined the circulating lipidome composition, while lipid species analysis revealed additional findings that were not observed at the subclass level.
A Review on the Prevalence of Poxvirus Disease in Free-Living and Captive Wild Birds
Authors: Williams Richard A. J. , Truchado Daniel A. , Benitez Laura
Published: April 2021

Avian pox is a widespread infection in birds caused by genus Avipoxvirus pathogens. It is a noteworthy, potentially lethal disease to wild and domestic hosts. It can produce two different conditions: cutaneous pox, and diphtheritic pox. Here, we carry out an exhaustive review of all cases of avian pox reported from wild birds to analyze the effect and distribution in different avian species. Avian poxvirus strains have been detected in at least 374 wild bird species, a 60% increase on a 1999 review on avian pox hosts. We also analyze epizootic cases and if this disease contributes to wild bird population declines. We frequently observe very high prevalence in wild birds in remote island groups, e.g., Hawaii, Galapagos, etc., representing a major risk for the conservation of their unique endemic avifauna. However, the difference in prevalence between islands and continents is not significant given the few available studies. Morbidity and mortality can also be very high in captive birds, due to high population densities. However, despite the importance of the disease, the current detection rate of new Avipoxvirus strains suggests that diversity is incomplete for this group, and more research is needed to clarify its real extent, particularly in wild birds.
Antimicrobial Power of Organic Acids and Nature-Identical Compounds against Two Vibrio spp.: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Rossi Barbara , Esteban Maria Angéles , García-Beltran José María , Giovagnoni Giulia , Cuesta Alberto , Piva Andrea , Grilli Ester
Published: April 2021

Vibrosis is one of the major threats in aquaculture farming, and due to the increasing antimicrobial resistance of different Vibrio species, there is an urgent need to replace conventional treatments with more sustainable solutions. Antimicrobial molecules such as organic acids (OA) and nature-identical compounds (NIC) are currently finding a central role in the infection management of terrestrial livestock, but little is known about their usage in aquaculture. The aim of this study was to perform a preliminary screening of the in vitro antimicrobial activity of a wide panel of OA and NIC against 2 Vibrio species characteristic of the Mediterranean area, Vibrio harveyi and Vibrio anguillarum, through minimal inhibitory/bactericidal concentration tests. The active principles that showed the best effective pathogen control were medium-chain fatty acids, sorbic and benzoic acid among OA and phenolic monoterpenoids (thymol, carvacrol and eugenol) and aromatic monoterpene aldehydes (vanillin and cinnamaldehyde) among NIC. These results showed how the usage of OA and NIC can open promising perspectives in terms of Vibrio spp. load control in aquaculture. Natural or nature-identical feed additives can make aquaculture production not only more efficient by reducing the need for medicated treatments, but also more sustainable.
Interactions between Rainbow Trout Eyed Eggs and Flavobacterium spp. Using a Bath Challenge Model: Preliminary Evaluation of Bacteriophages as Pathogen Control Agents
Authors: Donati Valentina L. , Dalsgaard Inger , Runtuvuori-Salmela Anniina , Kunttu Heidi , Jørgensen Johanna , Castillo Daniel , Sundberg Lotta-Riina , Middelboe Mathias , Madsen Lone
Published: April 2021

The microbial community surrounding fish eyed eggs can harbor pathogenic bacteria. In this study we focused on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) eyed eggs and the potential of bacteriophages against the pathogenic bacteria Flavobacterium psychrophilum and F. columnare. An infection bath method was first established, and the effects of singular phages on fish eggs was assessed (survival of eyed eggs, interaction of phages with eyed eggs). Subsequently, bacteria-challenged eyed eggs were exposed to phages to evaluate their effects in controlling the bacterial population. Culture-based methods were used to enumerate the number of bacteria and/or phages associated with eyed eggs and in the surrounding environment. The results of the study showed that, with our infection model, it was possible to re-isolate F. psychrophilum associated with eyed eggs after the infection procedure, without affecting the survival of the eggs in the short term. However, this was not possible for F. columnare, as this bacterium grows at higher temperatures than the ones recommended for incubation of rainbow trout eyed eggs. Bacteriophages do not appear to negatively affect the survival of rainbow trout eyed eggs and they do not seem to strongly adhere to the surface of eyed eggs either. Finally, the results demonstrated a strong potential for short term (24 h) phage control of F. psychrophilum. However, further studies are needed to explore if phage control can be maintained for a longer period and to further elucidate the mechanisms of interactions between Flavobacteria and their phages in association with fish eggs.
Analysis of Endophyte Diversity of Rheum palmatum from Different Production Areas in Gansu Province of China and the Association with Secondary Metabolite
Authors: Chen Dawei , Jia Lingyun , Hou Qinzheng , Zhao Xiang , Sun Kun
Published: April 2021

Investigations of the differences in the metabolites of medicinal plants have typically focused on the effects of external environmental factors. However, little is known about the relationship between endophytes diversity and host metabolites. We used high-throughput sequencing methods to compare the endophyte diversity of Rheum palmatum from eight different production areas in Gansu Province of China and to analyze the association between those areas and five secondary metabolites (aloe-emodin, rhein, emodin, chrysophanol, and physcion). The results show that the diversity and OTUs (Operational taxonomic units) abundance of endophytic fungi and bacteria of R. palmatum differed according to production area. Spearman analysis showed that the five secondary metabolites of R. palmatum were positively correlated with the diversity and abundance of endophytic fungi. Comparing both space and environmental differences to determine influences on community structure, VPA analysis revealed that geographic factors explained more difference in community composition of fungal and bacterial endophytes than climate factors. PICRUSt and FUNGuild predictive analysis indicated that metabolites were the primary components of endophytic bacteria in all samples, while the function of endophytic fungi was composed of dominant trophic modes (saprotroph and pathotroph), and relative abundances were different. Our results help elucidate the correlation of plant–microbe interactions and offer pivotal information to reveal the role of endophytes in the production of R. palmatum and its important secondary metabolite.
Influence of Mining Activities on Arsenic Concentration in Rice in Asia: A Review
Authors: Hoang Anh T. P. , Prinpreecha Nouvarat , Kim Kyoung-Woong
Published: April 2021

Crop and livestock farming on contaminated soil has been found to induce the accumulation of trace elements in edible parts of plants, with subsequent risk to human and animal health. Since rice crop is a major source of energy in worldwide diets and is consumed by more than 3 billion people, the soil–rice pathway is regarded as a prominent route of human exposure to potentially toxic elements. This study provides an overview of arsenic contamination in paddy rice from mining-impacted areas in several Asian countries that are primary rice consumers. From this review, it may be concluded that mining activities, along with the associated residual waste, significantly contribute to arsenic contamination of this food crop as rice samples from these regions were highly contaminated, with the highest total arsenic concentrations recorded being 3–4 times higher than the maximum levels proposed by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. While the contamination in China, Korea, Indonesia, and Thailand appeared to be slightly affected by mining activities, the elevated levels of arsenic in rice from mining areas in India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam could be derived from arsenic-contaminated groundwater.
Shear-Related Gold Ores in the Wadi Hodein Shear Belt, South Eastern Desert of Egypt: Analysis of Remote Sensing, Field and Structural Data
Authors: Abd El-Wahed Mohamed , Zoheir Basem , Pour Amin Beiranvand , Kamh Samir
Published: April 2021

Space-borne multispectral and radar data were used to comprehensively map geological contacts, lithologies and structural elements controlling gold-bearing quartz veins in the Wadi Hodein area in Egypt. In this study, enhancement algorithms, band combinations, band math (BM), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), decorrelation stretch and mineralogical indices were applied to Landsat-8 OLI, ASTER and ALOS PALSAR following a pre-designed flow chart. Together with the field observations, the results of the image processing techniques were exported to the GIS environment and subsequently fused to generate a potentiality map. The Wadi Hodein shear belt is a ductile shear corridor developed in response to non-coaxial convergence and northward escape tectonics that accompanied the final stages of terrane accretion and cratonization (~680–600 Ma) in the northern part of the Arabian–Nubian Shield. The evolution of this shear belt encompassed a protracted ~E–W shortening and recurrent sinistral transpression as manifested by east-dipping thrusts and high-angle reverse shear zones. Gold-mineralized shear zones cut heterogeneously deformed ophiolites and metavolcaniclastic rocks and attenuate in and around granodioritic intrusions. The gold mineralization event was evidently epigenetic in the metamorphic rocks and was likely attributed to rejuvenated tectonism and circulation of hot fluids during transpressional deformation. The superposition of the NW–SE folds by NNW-trending, kilometer scale tight and reclined folds shaped the overall framework of the Wadi Hodein belt. Shallow NNW- or SSE-plunging mineral and stretching lineations on steeply dipping shear planes depict a considerable simple shear component. The results of image processing complying with field observations and structural analysis suggest that the coincidence of shear zones, hydrothermal alteration and crosscutting dikes in the study area could be considered as a model criterion in exploration for new gold targets.
A Review of Sample Analysis at Mars-Evolved Gas Analysis Laboratory Analog Work Supporting the Presence of Perchlorates and Chlorates in Gale Crater, Mars
Authors: Clark Joanna , Sutter Brad , Archer P. Douglas , Ming Douglas , Rampe Elizabeth , McAdam Amy , Navarro-González Rafael , Eigenbrode Jennifer , Glavin Daniel , Zorzano Maria-Paz , Martin-Torres Javier , Morris Richard , Tu Valerie , Ralston S. J. , Mahaffy Paul
Published: April 2021

The Sample Analysis at Mars (SAM) instrument on the Curiosity rover has detected evidence of oxychlorine compounds (i.e., perchlorates and chlorates) in Gale crater, which has implications for past habitability, diagenesis, aqueous processes, interpretation of in situ organic analyses, understanding the martian chlorine cycle, and hazards and resources for future human exploration. Pure oxychlorines and mixtures of oxychlorines with Mars-analog phases have been analyzed for their oxygen (O2) and hydrogen chloride (HCl) releases on SAM laboratory analog instruments in order to constrain which phases are present in Gale crater. These studies demonstrated that oxychlorines evolve O2 releases with peaks between ~200 and 600 °C, although the thermal decomposition temperatures and the amount of evolved O2 decrease when iron phases are present in the sample. Mg and Fe oxychlorines decompose into oxides and release HCl between ~200 and 542 °C. Ca, Na, and K oxychlorines thermally decompose into chlorides and do not evolve HCl by themselves. However, the chlorides (original or from oxychlorine decomposition) can react with water-evolving phases (e.g., phyllosilicates) in the sample and evolve HCl within the temperature range of SAM (<~870 °C). These laboratory analog studies support that the SAM detection of oxychlorine phases is consistent with the presence of Mg, Ca, Na, and K perchlorate and/or chlorate along with possible contributions from adsorbed oxychlorines in Gale crater samples.
Ferroelastic Twinning in Minerals: A Source of Trace Elements, Conductivity, and Unexpected Piezoelectricity
Authors: Salje Ekhard K. H.
Published: April 2021

Ferroelastic twinning in minerals is a very common phenomenon. The twin laws follow simple symmetry rules and they are observed in minerals, like feldspar, palmierite, leucite, perovskite, and so forth. The major discovery over the last two decades was that the thin areas between the twins yield characteristic physical and chemical properties, but not the twins themselves. Research greatly focusses on these twin walls (or ‘twin boundaries’); therefore, because they possess different crystal structures and generate a large variety of ‘emerging’ properties. Research on wall properties has largely overshadowed research on twin domains. Some wall properties are discussed in this short review, such as their ability for chemical storage, and their structural deformations that generate polarity and piezoelectricity inside the walls, while none of these effects exist in the adjacent domains. Walls contain topological defects, like kinks, and they are strong enough to deform surface regions. These effects have triggered major research initiatives that go well beyond the realm of mineralogy and crystallography. Future work is expected to discover other twin configurations, such as co-elastic twins in quartz and growth twins in other minerals.
Zircon U-Pb and Pyrite Re-Os Isotope Geochemistry of ‘Skarn-Type’ Fe-Cu Mineralization at the Shuikoushan Polymetallic Deposit, South China: Implications for an Early Cretaceous Mineralization Event in the Nanling Range
Authors: Li Shengbin , Cao Yonghua , Song Zeyou , Xiao Dan
Published: April 2021

The Shuikoushan deposit is an economic ‘skarn-type’ polymetallic Pb-Zn deposit in South China. The deposit is located at the southern margin of the Hengyang basin in the northern part of the Nanling Range. Recently, economic Fe-Cu mineralization that occurs spatially connected to skarns along the contact zone between the granodiorite and limestones was discovered in the lower part of this deposit. Detailed zircon U-Pb geochronological data indicate that the granodiorite was emplaced at 153.7 ± 0.58 Ma (Mean Square of Weighted Deviates (MSWD) = 2.4). However, the pyrite Re-Os isochron age reveals that Fe-Cu mineralization formed at 140 ± 11 Ma (MSWD) = 8.1), which post-dates the emplacement of the granodiorite, as well as the previously determined timing of Pb-Zn mineralization (157.8 ± 1.4 Ma) in this deposit. Considering that Fe-Cu mineralization was connected with the contact zone and also faults, and that sulfide minerals commonly occur together with quartz and calcite veins that crosscut skarns, we interpret this mineralization type as being related to injection of post-magmatic hydrothermal fluids. The timing of Fe-Cu mineralization (140 ± 11 Ma) is inconsistent with a long-held viewpoint that the time interval of 145 to 130 Ma (e.g., Early Cretaceous) in the Nanling Range is a period of magmatic quiescence with insignificant mineralization, the age of 140 Ma may represent a new mineralization event in the Nanling Range.
High-Pressure Processing and Ultrasonication of Minimally Processed Potatoes: Effect on the Colour, Microbial Counts, and Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Tsikrika Konstantina , Walsh Des , Joseph Ashik , Burgess Catherine M. , Rai Dilip K.
Published: April 2021

HPP at 600 MPa alone, and in combination with US at 20 kHz (200 W), was applied to minimally processed potatoes of two commonly grown cultivars in Ireland. Changes in colour and microbial load (Enterobacteriaceae, total aerobic count, Salmonella, yeasts, and moulds) were monitored in vacuum-packaged potatoes during 14 days of storage at 4 °C. HPP and HPP/US significantly (p < 0.05) affected the colour parameters a*, b*, L*, and ΔE of minimally processed potatoes compared to the controls. Microbial growth was delayed in most of the treated samples with respect to those untreated (controls), while HPP completely inactivated Enterobacteriaceae in both cultivars. Total phenolic content and antioxidant activities were not altered in the treated samples of both varieties when compared to the controls. The levels of chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, and caffeic acid were decreased after both treatments, with a significant (p < 0.05) increase in quinic acid in the treated samples as opposed to those untreated. A significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the levels of glycoalkaloids, namely α-chaconine and α-solanine, in HPP- and HPP/US-treated potatoes was also observed. These findings suggest that HPP and US can extend the shelf-life of minimally processed potatoes with a negligible impact on their antioxidant activity and phenolic content.
The Molecular Basis of Different Approaches for the Study of Cancer Stem Cells and the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Three-Dimensional Culture
Authors: Cianciosi Danila , Ansary Johura , Forbes-Hernandez Tamara Y. , Regolo Lucia , Quinzi Denise , Gracia Villar Santos , Garcia Villena Eduardo , Tutusaus Pifarre Kilian , Alvarez-Suarez José M. , Battino Maurizio , Giampieri Francesca
Published: April 2021

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a rare tumor subpopulation with high differentiation, proliferative and tumorigenic potential compared to the remaining tumor population. CSCs were first discovered by Bonnet and Dick in 1997 in acute myeloid leukemia. The identification and isolation of these cells in this pioneering study were carried out through the flow cytometry, exploiting the presence of specific cell surface molecular markers (CD34+/CD38−). In the following years, different strategies and projects have been developed for the study of CSCs, which are basically divided into surface markers assays and functional assays; some of these techniques also allow working with a cellular model that better mimics the tumor architecture. The purpose of this mini review is to summarize and briefly describe all the current methods used for the identification, isolation and enrichment of CSCs, describing, where possible, the molecular basis, the advantages and disadvantages of each technique with a particular focus on those that offer a three-dimensional culture.
Bee Bread Can Alleviate Lipid Abnormalities and Impaired Bone Morphology in Obese Zucker Diabetic Rats
Authors: Martiniakova Monika , Blahova Jana , Kovacova Veronika , Babikova Martina , Mondockova Vladimira , Kalafova Anna , Capcarova Marcela , Omelka Radoslav
Published: April 2021

This study examined for the first time whether bee bread (BB, consisting of monofloral rape bee pollen) could alleviate lipid derangements and reduced bone quality in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, which are considered an appropriate animal model for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) investigation. Adult ZDF rats were segregated into four groups: lean non-diabetic rats (L group), obese diabetic rats untreated (C group), and those treated with the BB at two doses (500 and 700 mg/kg body weight, respectively, B1 and B2 groups) for 10 weeks. Significantly reduced levels of total cholesterol and triglyceride were recorded in the B2 group versus the C group. In both BB-treated groups, significantly increased relative volume of trabecular bone and trabecular thickness, enhanced density of secondary osteons, accelerated periosteal bone apposition, and improved blood flow were observed. A positive effect of higher dose of BB on femoral weight and cortical bone thickness was also demonstrated. Our results suggest a promising potential of BB to ameliorate T2DM-related complications associated with lipid and bone damages.
Site-Specific Conversion of Cysteine in a Protein to Dehydroalanine Using 2-Nitro-5-thiocyanatobenzoic Acid
Authors: Qiao Yuchen , Yu Ge , Leeuwon Sunshine Z. , Liu Wenshe Ray
Published: April 2021

Dehydroalanine exists natively in certain proteins and can also be chemically made from the protein cysteine. As a strong Michael acceptor, dehydroalanine in proteins has been explored to undergo reactions with different thiolate reagents for making close analogues of post-translational modifications (PTMs), including a variety of lysine PTMs. The chemical reagent 2-nitro-5-thiocyanatobenzoic acid (NTCB) selectively modifies cysteine to form S-cyano-cysteine, in which the S–Cβ bond is highly polarized. We explored the labile nature of this bond for triggering E2 elimination to generate dehydroalanine. Our results indicated that when cysteine is at the flexible C-terminal end of a protein, the dehydroalanine formation is highly effective. We produced ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like proteins with a C-terminal dehydroalanine residue with high yields. When cysteine is located at an internal region of a protein, the efficiency of the reaction varies with mainly hydrolysis products observed. Dehydroalanine in proteins such as ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like proteins can serve as probes for studying pathways involving ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like proteins and it is also a starting point to generate proteins with many PTM analogues; therefore, we believe that this NTCB-triggered dehydroalanine formation method will find broad applications in studying ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like protein pathways and the functional annotation of many PTMs in proteins such as histones.
Drying Effects on Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Lippia thymoides Essential Oil, a Natural Source of Thymol
Authors: Nascimento Lidiane Diniz do , Silva Sebastião Gomes , Cascaes Márcia Moraes , Costa Kauê Santana da , Figueiredo Pablo Luis Baia , Costa Cristiane Maria Leal , Andrade Eloisa Helena de Aguiar , de Faria Lênio José Guerreiro
Published: April 2021

Leaves of Lippia thymoides (Verbenaceae) were dried in an oven at 40, 50 and 60 °C and the kinetic of drying and the influence of the drying process on the chemical composition, yield, and DPPH radical scavenging activity of the obtained essential oils were evaluated. The composition of the essential oils was determined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-flame ionization detection analyses. The influence of drying on the chemical composition of the essential oils of L. thymoides was evaluated by multivariate analysis, and their antioxidant activity was investigated via the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The Midilli model was the most appropriate to describe the behavior of drying kinetic data of L. thymoides leaves. Thymol was the major compound for all analyzed conditions; the maximum content was obtained from fresh leaves (62.78 ± 0.63%). The essential oils showed DPPH radical scavenging activity with an average of 73.10 ± 12.08%, and the fresh leaves showed higher inhibition (89.97 ± 0.31%). This is the first study to evaluate the influence of drying on the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of L. thymoides essential oils rich in thymol.
The Use of Yeast Mixed Cultures for Deacidification and Improvement of the Composition of Cold Climate Grape Wines
Authors: Cioch-Skoneczny Monika , Grabowski Michał , Satora Paweł , Skoneczny Szymon , Klimczak Krystian
Published: April 2021

Interest in the use of non-Saccharomyces yeast in mixed cultures is increasing due to the perceived improvement in the quality and complexity of the resulting wines. The aim of the study was to determine the ability of monocultures and mixed yeast cultures for deacidification and improvement of the composition of cold climate grape wines. Fermentation of grape musts with increased total acidity was carried out with the use of monocultures of Saccharomyces cerevisiae MH020215 (Sc), Zygosaccharomyces bailii 749 (Zb) and Metschnikowia pulcherrima MG970690 (Mp), and their mixed cultures, inoculated simultaneously and sequentially. Oenological parameters, organic acids and volatile compounds profiles of obtained wines were characterized. The fermentation kinetics and analytical profiles of the obtained wines showed that the use of mixed yeast cultures contributed to the reduction of volatile acidity and acetic acid content in the wines, as well as obtaining a favorable aromatic profile of the wines. The dominant higher alcohols in all wines were 2-methyl-1-propanol, 3-methyl-1-butanol and 2-methyl-1-butanol. Significantly higher amounts of the first two compounds were found in wines obtained with M. pulcherrima MG070690, both in monoculture and in mixed cultures. The monocultures of M. pulcherrima MG070690 (Mp) compared with Z. bailli 749 (Zb) synthesized higher levels of esters in wines, including ethyl acetate, ethyl propionate, isobutyl acetate, ethyl pyroracemate and isoamyl acetate.
Oxyresveratrol Ameliorates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Rats by Suppressing Inflammation
Authors: Yeom Jiah , Ma Seongho , Kim Jeong-Keun , Lim Young-Hee
Published: April 2021

Colitis causes destruction of the intestinal mucus layer and increases intestinal inflammation. The use of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents derived from natural sources has been recently highlighted as a new approach for the treatment of colitis. Oxyresveratrol (OXY) is an antioxidant known to have various beneficial effects on human health, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial activity, and antiviral activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of OXY in rats with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis. OXY ameliorated DSS-induced colitis and repaired damaged intestinal mucosa. OXY downregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) and chemokine gene MCP-1, while promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. OXY treatment also suppressed inflammation via inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression in the colon, as well as the activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO). OXY exhibited anti-apoptotic effects, shifting the Bax/Bcl-2 balance. In conclusion, OXY might improve DSS-induced colitis by restoring the intestinal mucus layer and reducing inflammation within the intestine.
Anthocyanins Recovered from Agri-Food By-Products Using Innovative Processes: Trends, Challenges, and Perspectives for Their Application in Food Systems
Authors: Arruda Henrique Silvano , Silva Eric Keven , Peixoto Araujo Nayara Macêdo , Pereira Gustavo Araujo , Pastore Glaucia Maria , Marostica Junior Mario Roberto
Published: April 2021

Anthocyanins are naturally occurring phytochemicals that have attracted growing interest from consumers and the food industry due to their multiple biological properties and technological applications. Nevertheless, conventional extraction techniques based on thermal technologies can compromise both the recovery and stability of anthocyanins, reducing their global yield and/or limiting their application in food systems. The current review provides an overview of the main innovative processes (e.g., pulsed electric field, microwave, and ultrasound) used to recover anthocyanins from agri-food waste/by-products and the mechanisms involved in anthocyanin extraction and their impacts on the stability of these compounds. Moreover, trends and perspectives of anthocyanins’ applications in food systems, such as antioxidants, natural colorants, preservatives, and active and smart packaging components, are addressed. Challenges behind anthocyanin implementation in food systems are displayed and potential solutions to overcome these drawbacks are proposed.
Nitrogenous Compounds from the Antarctic Fungus Pseudogymnoascus sp. HSX2#-11
Authors: Shi Ting , Zheng Li , Li Xiang-Qian , Dai Jia-Jia , Zhang Yi-Ting , Yu Yan-Yan , Hu Wen-Peng , Shi Da-Yong
Published: April 2021

The species Pseudogymnoascus is known as a psychrophilic pathogenic fungus which is ubiquitously distributed in Antarctica. While the studies of its secondary metabolites are infrequent. Systematic research of the metabolites of the Antarctic fungus Pseudogymnoascus sp. HSX2#-11 led to the isolation of one new pyridine derivative, 4-(2-methoxycarbonyl-ethyl)-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid methyl ester (1), together with one pyrimidine, thymine (2), and eight diketopiperazines, cyclo-(dehydroAla-l-Val) (3), cyclo-(dehydroAla-l-Ile) (4), cyclo-(dehydroAla-l-Leu) (5), cyclo-(dehydroAla-l-Phe) (6), cyclo-(l-Val-l-Phe) (7), cyclo-(l-Leu-l-Phe) (8), cyclo-(l-Trp-l-Ile) (9) and cyclo-(l-Trp-l-Phe) (10). The structures of these compounds were established by extensive spectroscopic investigation, as well as by detailed comparison with literature data. This is the first report to discover pyridine, pyrimidine and diketopiperazines from the genus of Pseudogymnoascus.
Transformation of 3-(Furan-2-yl)-1,3-di(het)arylpropan-1-ones to Prop-2-en-1-ones via Oxidative Furan Dearomatization/2-Ene-1,4,7-triones Cyclization
Authors: Shcherbakov Roman O. , Eshmemet’eva Diana A. , Merkushev Anton A. , Trushkov Igor V. , Uchuskin Maxim G.
Published: April 2021

The approach to 3-(furan-2-yl)-1,3-di(het)arylprop-2-en-1-ones based on the oxidative dearomatization of 3-(furan-2-yl)-1,3-di(het)arylpropan-1-ones followed by an unusual cyclization of the formed di(het)aryl-substituted 2-ene-1,4,7-triones has been developed. The cyclization step is related to the Paal–Knorr synthesis, but the furan ring formation is accompanied in this case by a formal shift of the double bond through the formation of a fully conjugated 4,7-hydroxy-2,4,6-trien-1-one system or its surrogate.
Supercritical Carbon Dioxide-Based Processes in Photocatalytic Applications
Authors: Franco Paola , Sacco Olga , Vaiano Vincenzo , De Marco Iolanda
Published: April 2021

Conventional methods generally used to synthesize heterogeneous photocatalysts have some drawbacks, mainly the difficult control/preservation of catalysts’ morphology, size or structure, which strongly affect the photocatalytic activity. Supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2)-assisted techniques have recently been shown to be a promising approach to overcome these limitations, which are still a challenge. In addition, compared to traditional methods, these innovative techniques permit the synthesis of high-performance photocatalysts by reducing the use of toxic and polluting solvents and, consequently, the environmental impact of long-term catalyst preparation. Specifically, the versatility of scCO2 allows to prepare catalysts with different structures (e.g., nanoparticles or metal-loaded supports) by several supercritical processes for the photocatalytic degradation of various compounds. This is the first updated review on the use of scCO2-assisted techniques for photocatalytic applications. We hope this review provides useful information on different approaches and future perspectives.
Biocomputational Screening of Natural Compounds against Acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Ahmad Syed Sayeed , Khan Mohd Babu , Ahmad Khurshid , Lim Jeong-Ho , Shaikh Sibhghatulla , Lee Eun-Ju , Choi Inho
Published: April 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and is characterized by irreversible and progressive neurodegeneration. Cholinergic dysfunction has been reported in AD, and several cholinesterase inhibitors, including natural compounds and synthetic analogs, have been developed to treat the disease. However, there is currently no treatment for AD, as most drug-like compounds have failed in clinical trials. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is the target of most drugs used commercially to treat AD. This work focused on screening natural compounds obtained from the ZINC database (224, 205 compounds) against AChE to identify those possibly capable of enabling the management of AD. Indirubin and dehydroevodiamine were the best potential AChE inhibitors with free binding energies of −10.03 and −9.00 kcal/mol, respectively. The key residue (His447) of the active site of AChE was found to participate in complex interactions with these two molecules. Six H-bonds were involved in the ‘indirubin–AChE’ interaction and three H-bonds in the ‘dehydroevodiamine–AChE’ interaction. These compounds were predicted to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and to exhibit high levels of intestinal absorption. Furthermore, ‘indirubin–AChE’ and ‘dehydroevodiamine–AChE’ complexes were found to be stable, as determined by root mean square deviation (RMSD) during a 50 ns molecular dynamics simulation study. Based on the free binding energies and stabilities obtained by simulation studies, we recommend that experimental studies be undertaken on indirubin and dehydroevodiamine with a view towards their potential use as treatments for AD.
Nickel(II) Complex of N4 Schiff Base Ligand as a Building Block for a Conducting Metallopolymer with Multiple Redox States
Authors: Karushev Mikhail , Smirnova Evgenia , Chepurnaya Irina
Published: April 2021

Metal–ligand interactions in monomeric and polymeric transition metal complexes of Schiff base ligands largely define their functional properties and perspective applications. In this study, redox behavior of a nickel(II) N4-anilinosalen complex, [NiAmben] (where H2Amben = N,N′-bis(o-aminobenzylidene)ethylenediamine) was studied by cyclic voltammetry in solvents of different Lewis basicity. A poly-[NiAmben] film electrochemically synthesized from a 1,2-dichloroethane-based electrolyte was investigated by a combination of cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance, in situ UV-Vis spectroelectrochemistry, and in situ conductance measurements between −0.9 and 1.3 V vs. Ag/Ag+. The polymer displayed multistep redox processes involving reversible transfer of the total of ca. 1.6 electrons per repeat unit, electrical conductivity over a wide potential range, and multiple color changes in correlation with electrochemical processes. Performance advantages of poly-[NiAmben] over its nickel(II) N2O2 Schiff base analogue were identified and related to the increased number of accessible redox states in the polymer due to the higher extent of electronic communication between metal ions and ligand segments in the nickel(II) N4-anilinosalen system. The obtained results suggest that electrosynthesized poly-[NiAmben] films may be viable candidates for energy storage and saving applications.
Relationship between Phenolic Compounds, Antioxidant Properties, and the Allergenic Protein Mal d 1 in Different Selenium-Biofortified Apple Cultivars (Malus domestica)
Authors: Groth Sabrina , Budke Christoph , Weber Timo , Neugart Susanne , Brockmann Sven , Holz Martina , Sawadski Bao Chau , Daum Diemo , Rohn Sascha
Published: April 2021

Notable parts of the population in Europe suffer from allergies towards apples. To address this health problem, the analysis of the interactions of relevant allergens with other substances such as phenolic compounds is of particular importance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlations between the total phenolic content (TPC), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, antioxidant activity (AOA), and the phenolic compound profile and the content of the allergenic protein Mal d 1 in six apple cultivars. It was found that the PPO activity and the content of individual phenolic compounds had an influence on the Mal d 1 content. With regard to the important constituents, flavan-3-ols and phenolic acids, it was found that apples with a higher content of chlorogenic acid and a low content of procyanidin trimers and/or epicatechin had a lower allergenic potential. This is probably based on the reaction of phenolic compounds (when oxidized by the endogenous PPO) with proteins, thus being able to change the conformation of the (allergenic) proteins, which further corresponds to a loss of antibody recognition. When apples were additionally biofortified with selenium, the composition of the apples, with regard to TPC, phenolic profile, AOA, and PPO, was significantly affected. Consequently, this innovative agronomic practice seems to be promising for reducing the allergenic potential of apples.
Effect of Fluorescent Labels on DNA Affinity for Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Epanchintseva Anna V. , Gorbunova Ekaterina A. , Ryabchikova Elena I. , Pyshnaya Inna A. , Pyshnyi Dmitrii V.
Published: April 2021

Fluorophore (FD) labeling is widely used for detection and quantification of various compounds bound to nanocarriers. The systems, composed of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and oligonucleotides (ONs) labeled with FDs, have wide applications. Our work was aimed at a systemic study of how FD structure (in composition of ON-FDs) influenced the efficiency of their non-covalent associates’ formation with GNPs (ON-FD/GNPs). We examined ONs of different length and nucleotide composition, and corresponding ON-FDs (FDs from a series of xanthene, polymethine dyes; dyes based on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). Methods: fluorometry, dynamic light scattering, high performance liquid chromatography, gel electrophoresis, molecular modeling and methods of thermodynamic and statistical analysis. We observed significant, differing several times, changes in surface density and Langmuir constant values of ON-FDs vs. ONs, evidence for the critical significance of FD nature for binding of ON-FDs with GNPs. Surface density of ON-FD/GNPs; hydrophobicity and total charge of ON or ON-FD; and charge and surface area of FDs were revealed as key factors determining affinity (Langmuir constant) of ON or ON-FDs for GNPs. These factors compose a specific set, which makes possible the highly reliable prediction of efficiency of ONs and ON-FDs binding with GNPs. The principal possibility of creating an algorithm for predictive calculation of efficiency of ONs and GNPs interaction was demonstrated. We proposed a hypothetical model that described the mechanism of contact interaction between negatively charged nano-objects, such as citrate-stabilized GNPs, and ONs or ON-FDs.
Independent Control Over Size and Surface Density of Droplet Epitaxial Nanostructures Using Ultra-Low Arsenic Fluxes
Authors: Balakirev Sergey V. , Chernenko Natalia E. , Eremenko Mikhail M. , Ageev Oleg A. , Solodovnik Maxim S.
Published: April 2021

Modern and future nanoelectronic and nanophotonic applications require precise control of the size, shape and density of III-V quantum dots in order to predefine the characteristics of devices based on them. In this paper, we propose a new approach to control the size of nanostructures formed by droplet epitaxy. We reveal that it is possible to reduce the droplet volume independently of the growth temperature and deposition amount by exposing droplets to ultra-low group-V flux. We carry out a thorough study of the effect of arsenic pressure on the droplet characteristics and demonstrate that indium droplets with a large initial size (>100 nm) and a low surface density (<108 cm−2) are able to shrink to dimensions appropriate for quantum dot applications. Small droplets are found to be unstable and difficult to control, while larger droplets are more resistive to arsenic flux and can be reduced to stable, small-sized nanostructures (~30 nm). We demonstrate the growth conditions under which droplets transform into dots, ring and holes and describe a mechanism of this transformation depending on the ultra-low arsenic flux. Thus, we observe phenomena which significantly expand the capabilities of droplet epitaxy.
Recent Advances in the Plasma-Assisted Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Primc Gregor , Brenčič Katja , Mozetič Miran , Gorjanc Marija
Published: April 2021

An overview of recent work on the low-temperature plasma-assisted synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles is presented and interpreted in terms of gas-phase and surface reactions with illustrated examples. The thermodynamical nonequilibrium conditions allow the formation of chemically reactive species with a potential energy of several eV, which readily interact with the Zn precursors and initiate reactions leading to the formation of nanoparticles or nanowires. The high-quality nanowires were synthesized from Zn powders only upon interaction with moderately ionized plasma in a narrow range of plasma parameters. This technique is promising for the synthesis of large quantities of nanowires with aspect ratios well above 10, but the exact range of parameters remains to be determined. Apart from the ex situ techniques, the ZnO nanoparticles can be synthesized by depositing a film of precursors (often Zn salts or Zn-containing organometallic compounds) and exposing them to oxygen plasma. This technique is useful for the synthesis of well-adherent ZnO nanoparticles on heat-sensitive objects but requires further scientific validation as it often leads to the formation of a semicontinuous ZnO film rather than nanoparticles. Both low-pressure and atmospheric plasmas are useful in converting the precursor film into ZnO nanoparticles despite completely different mechanisms.
Polish Nurses’ Opinions on the Expansion of Their Competences—Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Harpula Kinga , Bartosiewicz Anna , Krukowski Jerzy
Published: April 2021

The development of medical science creates new challenges for nurses to acquire new skills. Thanks to legal changes in Poland, nurses have gained the opportunity to independently provide health services in many areas, including consultations for patients. The aim of the survey is to analyze nurses’ opinions on the expansion of competences in their profession. This is a cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted among 798 nurses using the survey technique. The majority (65.48%) of the respondents believed that they were adequately prepared to take up new competences. Most of the respondents believed that the new competence would improve the efficiency of the healthcare system in Poland (71.06%) and facilitate patients’ access to health services (65.29%). According to the nurses, the scope of nursing advice will mainly concern the promotion of health education, wound treatment and prescribing medications. Age, seniority and education level significantly influenced the nurses’ opinions on the scope of nursing advice. The Mann–Whitney test and the Kruskal–Wallis test were used. A correlation between two quantitative variables was assessed with the Spearman’s rho coefficient. The significance level of p < 0.05 was assumed. The extension of the professional competences of nurses will increase the prestige of the profession and is another step toward introducing the role of Advanced Practice Nurse in Poland.
A 100 Gbps OFDM-Based 28 GHz Millimeter-Wave Radio over Fiber Fronthaul System for 5G
Authors: Gadze James Dzisi , Akwafo Reynah , Agyekum Kwame Agyeman-Prempeh , Opare Kwasi Adu-Boahen
Published: April 2021

Due to the unprecedented growth in mobile data traffic, emerging mobile access networks such as fifth-generation (5G) would require huge bandwidth and a mobile fronthaul architecture as an essential solution in providing a high capacity for support in the future. To increase capacity, utilizing millimeter waves (mm-waves) in an analog radio over fiber (RoF) fronthaul link is the major advancement and solution in achieving higher bandwidth and high data rate to cater for 5G mobile communication. In this paper, we demonstrate the feasibility of transmission and reception of a 100 Gbits/s data rate link at 28 GHz. The performance of three modulation formats (16-PSK, 16-QAM and 64-QAM) have been compared for an optical fiber length from 5 km up to 35 km for two detection systems; coherent and direct detection. Also, in this paper, the transmission impairments inherent to transmission systems are realized through the implementation of a digital signal processing (DSP) compensation scheme in the receiver system to enhance system performance. Quality factor (QF) and bit error rate (BER) are used as metrics to evaluate the system performance. The proposed system model is designed and simulated using Optisystem 16.
Apparent Breed Predilection for Equid Herpesvirus-1-Associated Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) in a Multiple-Breed Herd
Authors: Klouth Eva , Zablotski Yury , Goehring Lutz S.
Published: April 2021

Equid herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) causes several outbreaks of abortion and/or equid herpesvirus-associated myeloencephalopathy (EHM) worldwide each year. EHM is of great concern, as permanent neurological gait anomalies can leave a horse unfit for future use. The study assesses the risk factors associated with the occurrence of EHM. During an unmitigated outbreak, 141 adult horses/ponies of several distinct breeds were evaluated—using multiple Bayesian logistic regression calculating the odds ratios for breed, age, and sex. In total, 33 of the 141 horses showed signs of EHM. Fjord horses and warmblood horses were overrepresented among those developing EHM. The pony breeds, Welsh and Shetland ponies, were underrepresented. In addition, age and sex were not associated with the risk for EHM. The main limitation was that it was a retrospective analysis with some flaws of documentation. It can be concluded that breed was a significant risk factor for developing EHM during this outbreak.
Identification of a Novel Papillomavirus Type (MfoiPV1) Associated with Acrochordon in a Stone Marten (Martes foina)
Authors: Kuhar Urška , Žele Vengušt Diana , Jamnikar-Ciglenečki Urška , Vengušt Gorazd
Published: April 2021

Papillomaviruses (PVs) are an extremely large group of viruses that cause skin and mucosal infections in humans and various domestic and wild animals. Nevertheless, there is limited knowledge about PVs in wildlife hosts, including mustelid species. This study describes a case in stone marten (Martes foina) with a clinical manifestation of skin tumor, which is rather atypical for infections with PVs. The result of the papillomavirus PCR performed on the skin tumor sample was positive, and the complete PV genome was determined in the studied sample using next-generation sequencing technology. The analysis of the PV genome revealed infection of the stone marten with a putative new PV type belonging to the Dyonupapillomavirus genus. The proposed new stone marten PV type was named MfoiPV1.