bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of a Pharmacological Approach for Reduction of Renal Uptake of Radiolabeled ADAPT Scaffold Protein
Authors: Vorobyeva Anzhelika , Oroujeni Maryam , Lindbo Sarah , Hober Sophia , Xu Tianqi , Liu Yongsheng , Rinne Sara S. , Garousi Javad
Published: September 2020

Albumin binding domain-Derived Affinity ProTeins (ADAPTs) are small (5 kDa) engineered scaffold proteins that are promising targeting agents for radionuclide-based imaging. A recent clinical study has demonstrated that radiolabeled ADAPTs can efficiently visualize human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression in breast cancer using SPECT imaging. However, the use of ADAPTs directly labeled with radiometals for targeted radionuclide therapy is limited by their high reabsorption and prolonged retention of activity in kidneys. In this study, we investigated whether a co-injection of lysine or gelofusin, commonly used for reduction of renal uptake of radiolabeled peptides in clinics, would reduce the renal uptake of [99mTc]Tc(CO)3-ADAPT6 in NMRI mice. In order to better understand the mechanism behind the reabsorption of [99mTc]Tc(CO)3-ADAPT6, we included several compounds that act on various parts of the reabsorption system in kidneys. Administration of gelofusine, lysine, probenecid, furosemide, mannitol, or colchicine did not change the uptake of [99mTc]Tc(CO)3-ADAPT6 in kidneys. Sodium maleate reduced the uptake of [99mTc]Tc(CO)3-ADAPT6 to ca. 25% of the uptake in the control, a high dose of fructose (50 mmol/kg) reduced the uptake by ca. two-fold. However, a lower dose (20 mmol/kg) had no effect. These results indicate that common clinical strategies are not effective for reduction of kidney uptake of [99mTc]Tc(CO)3-ADAPT6 and that other strategies for reduction of activity uptake or retention in kidneys should be investigated for ADAPT6.
Physicochemical and Antioxidative Characteristics of Potato Protein Isolate Hydrolysate
Authors: Chang Chiung-Yueh , Jin Jinn-Der , Chang Hsiao-Li , Huang Ko-Chieh , Chiang Yi-Fen , Hsia Shih-Min
Published: September 2020

This study investigated the physicochemical characteristics of potato protein isolate hydrolysate (PPIH) and its antioxidant activity. Potato protein isolate (PPI) was hydrolyzed into PPIH by the proteases bromelain, Neutrase, and Flavourzyme. Compared with PPI, the resulting PPIH had a lower molecular weight (MW, from 103.5 to 422.7 Da) and smaller particle size (<50 nm), as well as a higher solubility rate (>70%) under acidic conditions (pH 3–6). PPIH presented good solubility (73%) across the tested pH range of 3–6. As the pH was increased, the zeta potential of PPIH decreased from −7.4 to −21.6. Using the 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical-scavenging assay, we determined that the half-maximal effective concentration (EC50) values of ascorbic acid, PPIH, and PPI were 0.01, 0.89, and >2.33 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, PPIH (50 μg/mL) protected C2C12 cells from H2O2 oxidation significantly better than PPI (10.5% higher viability rate; p < 0.01). These findings demonstrated the possible use of PPIH as an antioxidant in medical applications.
Development of an HPLC-DAD Method for the Quantification of Ten Compounds from Moringa oleifera Lam. and Its Application in Quality Control of Commercial Products
Authors: Chokwe Ramakwala Christinah , Dube Simiso , Nindi Mathew Muzi
Published: September 2020

An HPLC-DAD separation method for the simultaneous quantification of ten compounds from Moringa oleifera plant was developed. The method was validated with pure solvent and different matrices of M. oleifera products. This method was found to be linear in the concentration range of 1 to 10 mg L−1 for all the compounds in the solvent and from 3 to 10 mg kg−1 in the different matrices. The correlation coefficients ranged between 0.9900 and 0.9999. Intra-day and inter-day variability showed that the developed method is both repeatable and precise with percent relative standard deviation values less than 10% and 20%, respectively. Limits of detection ranged between 0.06 and 0.8 mg L−1 for the solvent and 0.1–1.5 mg kg−1 for the matrices, while the limit of quantification ranged between 0.2 and 2.8 mg L−1 and 0.4–4.8 mg kg−1, respectively. The validated method was applied successfully to thirty-two different M. oleifera products, whereby all ten compounds were detected in one of the samples. Principal component analysis was used to assess the correlation and variance between the products. Variations were observed in products from different regions and from different manufacturers.
Inhibitory Potential of Polyclonal Camel Antibodies against New Delhi Metallo-β-lactamase-1 (NDM-1)
Authors: Ben Abderrazek Rahma , Chammam Sarra , Ksouri Ayoub , Perilli Mariagrazia , Dhaouadi Sayda , Mdini Ines , Benlasfar Zakaria , Amicosante Gianfranco , Bouhaouala-Zahar Balkiss , Piccirilli Alessandra
Published: September 2020

New Delhi Metallo-β-lactamase-1 (NDM-1) is the most prevalent type of metallo-β-lactamase, able to hydrolyze almost all antibiotics of the β-lactam group, leading to multidrug-resistant bacteria. To date, there are no clinically relevant inhibitors to fight NDM-1. The use of dromedary polyclonal antibody inhibitors against NDM-1 represents a promising new class of molecules with inhibitory activity. In the current study, immunoreactivities of dromedary Immunoglobulin G (IgG) isotypes containing heavy-chain and conventional antibodies were tested after successful immunization of dromedary using increasing amounts of the recombinant NDM-1 enzyme. Inhibition kinetic assays, performed using a spectrophotometric method with nitrocefin as a reporter substrate, demonstrated that IgG1, IgG2, and IgG3 were able to inhibit not only the hydrolytic activity of NDM-1 but also Verona integron-encoded metallo-β-lactamase (VIM-1) (subclass B1) and L1 metallo-β-lactamase (L1) (subclass B3) with inhibitory concentration (IC50) values ranging from 100 to 0.04 μM. Investigations on the ability of IgG subclasses to reduce the growth of recombinant Escherichia coli BL21(DE3)/codon plus cells containing the recombinant plasmid expressing NDM-1, L1, or VIM-1 showed that the addition of IgGs (4 and 8 mg/L) to the cell culture was unable to restore the susceptibility of carbapenems. Interestingly, IgGs were able to interact with NDM-1, L1, and VIM-1 when tested on the periplasm extract of each cultured strain. The inhibitory concentration was in the micromolar range for all β-lactams tested. A visualization of the 3D structural basis using the three enzyme Protein Data Bank (PDB) files supports preliminarily the recorded inhibition of the three MBLs.
Structural and Functional Aspects of Targeting the Secreted Human Group IIA Phospholipase A2
Authors: Kim Ryung Rae , Chen Zheng , J. Mann Timothy , Bastard Karine , F. Scott Kieran , Church W. Bret
Published: September 2020

Human group IIA secretory phospholipase A2 (hGIIA) promotes the proliferation of cancer cells, making it a compelling therapeutic target, but it is also significant in other inflammatory conditions. Consequently, suitable inhibitors of hGIIA have always been sought. The activation of phospholipases A2 and the catalysis of glycerophospholipid substrates generally leads to the release of fatty acids such as arachidonic acid (AA) and lysophospholipid, which are then converted to mediator compounds, including prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and the platelet-activating factor. However, this ability of hGIIA to provide AA is not a complete explanation of its biological role in inflammation, as it has now been shown that it also exerts proinflammatory effects by a catalysis-independent mechanism. This mechanism is likely to be highly dependent on key specific molecular interactions, and the full mechanistic descriptions of this remain elusive. The current candidates for the protein partners that may mediate this catalysis-independent mechanism are also introduced in this review. A key discovery has been that selective inhibition of the catalysis-independent activity of hGIIA is achieved with cyclised derivatives of a pentapeptide, FLSYK, derived from the primary sequence of hGIIA. The effects of hGIIA on cell function appear to vary depending on the pathology studied, and so its mechanism of action is complex and context-dependent. This review is comprehensive and covers the most recent developments in the understanding of the many facets of hGIIA function and inhibition and the insight they provide into their clinical application for disease treatment. A cyclic analogue of FLSYK, c2, the most potent analogue known, has now been taken into clinical trials targeting advanced prostate cancer.
A New Extract from Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) By-Products as a Potential Oenological Tannin: Preliminary Characterization and Comparison with Existing Commercial Products
Authors: Canuti Valentina , Cecchi Lorenzo , Khatib Mohamad , Guerrini Lorenzo , Mulinacci Nadia , Zanoni Bruno
Published: September 2020

Oenotannins are nowadays widely used as co-adjuvant in the winemaking process. The increasing cultivation and consumption of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) leads to high amounts of by-products, mainly peels. Aim of this study was to propose a dried tannin-rich extract from pomegranate by-products as a new oenotannin. A decoction was prepared from mesocarp of the Wonderful pomegranate variety only using hot water as extracting solvent. The dried decoction was physical-chemically characterized and compared to 7 existing commercial oenotannins from different botanical origin (grape seed, oak, gallnut), according to UV-Vis Spectroscopy, Colorimetric analysis (CIELab), gelatin index, reactivity to proteins, HPLC-DAD, DPPH, and Total Polyphenols content by both Folin-Ciocalteu and the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) methods. Data showed the lowest antiradical (AR) and total polyphenolic content (TPC) for the pomegranate tannin but also the highest AR/TPC ratio suggesting a good radical scavenging potential of this new tannin. Pomegranate tannin showed high reactivity with proteins, a unique chromatographic profile, and a low color impact. The new pomegranate tannin showed an interesting potential for oenological applications in particular for reducing the use of sulfites during vinification and for the white wine stabilization.
Physiological and Oxidative Stress Responses of Lettuce to Cleomside A: A Thiohydroximate, as a New Allelochemical from Cleome arabica L.
Authors: Ladhari Afef , Andolfi Anna , DellaGreca Marina
Published: September 2020

The inclination toward natural products have led the onset for the discovery of new bioactive metabolites that could be targeted for specific therapeutic or agronomic applications. This study aimed to isolate bioactive compounds from Cleome arabica L., and subsequently determine the unexplored mechanism of action of the newly identified compounds on Lactuca sativa L. Chemical investigation of the ethyl acetate fraction of methanolic silique extract of C. arabica afforded seven secondary metabolites belonging to different classes such as flavonoids, triterpene, and a new thiohydroximate derivative, named cleomside A. Among phytotoxic assays, the growth of lettuce was totally inhibited by cleomside A compared to the other identified compounds. This effect was associated with the increased levels of electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde, and hydrogen peroxide indicating disruption of membrane integrity and induction of oxidative stress. Activities of the antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, and APX were also elevated, thereby demonstrating the enhanced generation of reactive oxygen species upon identified allelochemical exposure. Thus, the changes caused by cleomside A described herein can contribute to better understanding the allelochemical actions of thiohydroximate and the potential use of these substances in the production of natural herbicides compared to the other identified flavonoids and triterpene.
A Facile Chemical Synthesis of PbTe Nanostructures at Room Temperature
Authors: Gite Anil B. , Palve Balasaheb M. , Gaikwad Vishwasrao B. , Jain Gotan H. , Pathan Habib M. , Haj Bloukh Samir , Edis Zehra
Published: September 2020

Thermoelectric (TE) materials are possible solutions of the current problems in the energy sector to overcome environmental pollution, increasing energy demand and the decline of natural resources. Thermoelectric materials are a promising alternative for the conversion of waste heat to electricity. Nanocrystalline PbTe powder was synthesized by a simple chemical method at room temperature and systematically investigated at various durations as samples A1–A5. Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), microstructural analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) confirmed the composition of the samples. TE parameters as thermo-emf of samples A1–A5 and electrical conductivity were measured. The cyclic voltammetry gives a band gap of 0.25 eV, which is in agreement with the optical band gap of the material. The A4 sample has an average crystal size of 36 nm with preferred orientation in (200) verifying the cubic morphology. The obtained TE parameters are beneficial for the non-uniform TE materials which might be due to strong current boundary scattering and extremely low thermal conductivity of the samples.
Titanium Disulfide Based Saturable Absorber for Generating Passively Mode-Locked and Q-Switched Ultra-Fast Fiber Lasers
Authors: Shang Xinxin , Guo Linguang , Zhang Huanian , Li Dengwang , Yue Qingyang
Published: September 2020

In our work, passively mode-locked and Q-switched Er-doped fiber lasers (EDFLs) based on titanium disulfide (TiS2) as a saturable absorber (SA) were generated successfully. Stable mode-locked pulses centred at 1531.69 nm with the minimum pulse width of 2.36 ps were obtained. By reducing the length of the laser cavity and optimizing the cavity loss, Q-switched operation with a maximum pulse energy of 67.2 nJ and a minimum pulse duration of 2.34 µs was also obtained. Its repetition rate monotonically increased from 13.17 kHz to 48.45 kHz with about a 35 kHz tuning range. Our experiment results fully indicate that TiS2 exhibits excellent nonlinear absorption performance and significant potential in acting as ultra-fast photonics devices.
The Effect of Fullerene Soot Nanoparticles on the Microstructure and Properties of Copper-Based Composites
Authors: Bobrynina Elizaveta V. , Larionova Tatiana V. , Koltsova Tatiana S. , Shamshurin Aleksey I. , Nikiforova Oksana V. , Tolochko Oleg V. , Puguang Ji , Fuxing Yin
Published: September 2020

Copper-based composite materials strengthened with nanosized fullerene soot particles were produced by mechanical milling and hot pressing technology with a content of carbon up to 5 wt. %. The microstructure of the composite powders and the compacts prepared using them were examined by light microscopy, SEM, EDS, XRD, and XPS; hardness, heat conductivity, and tribological characteristics were measured. The interesting feature of the observed microstructure was a “marble” pattern formed by a white boundary net. The study shows homogeneous distribution of carbon inside the copper grains and its lower concentration in the grain boundaries. The effect was caused by a reaction of carbon with oxygen adsorbed by the copper particles surface. The maximal hardness of the material is 160 HB for the sample with 0.5 wt. % of fullerene soot; this material has the minimal friction coefficient (0.12) and wear in a dry friction condition. Heat conductivity of the material (Cu-0.5 wt. % C) is 288 W/m*K.
Molecular Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Köse Gurbet , Darguzyte Milita , Kiessling Fabian
Published: September 2020

In the last decade, molecular ultrasound imaging has been rapidly progressing. It has proven promising to diagnose angiogenesis, inflammation, and thrombosis, and many intravascular targets, such as VEGFR2, integrins, and selectins, have been successfully visualized in vivo. Furthermore, pre-clinical studies demonstrated that molecular ultrasound increased sensitivity and specificity in disease detection, classification, and therapy response monitoring compared to current clinically applied ultrasound technologies. Several techniques were developed to detect target-bound microbubbles comprising sensitive particle acoustic quantification (SPAQ), destruction-replenishment analysis, and dwelling time assessment. Moreover, some groups tried to assess microbubble binding by a change in their echogenicity after target binding. These techniques can be complemented by radiation force ultrasound improving target binding by pushing microbubbles to vessel walls. Two targeted microbubble formulations are already in clinical trials for tumor detection and liver lesion characterization, and further clinical scale targeted microbubbles are prepared for clinical translation. The recent enormous progress in the field of molecular ultrasound imaging is summarized in this review article by introducing the most relevant detection technologies, concepts for targeted nano- and micro-bubbles, as well as their applications to characterize various diseases. Finally, progress in clinical translation is highlighted, and roadblocks are discussed that currently slow the clinical translation.
Lower Serum n-3 Fatty Acid Level in Older Adults with Sarcopenia
Authors: Jang Il-Young , Jung Hee-Won , Park Jin Hoon , Kim Jeoung Hee , Lee Seungjoo , Lee Eunju , Lee Jin Young , Park So Jeong , Kim Da Ae , Kim Su Jung , Yoo Hyun Ju , Kim Beom-Jun
Published: September 2020

The n-3 fatty acid (FA) has evoked considerable interest as a modifiable factor for maintenance of muscle health owing to its anti-inflammatory properties. To clarify this possibility, we investigated circulating n-3 FA level, a reliable biomarker of FA status in the body, in relation to sarcopenia in a cohort of Asian older adults. Blood samples were collected from 125 participants who underwent comprehensive assessment of muscle mass and function. Serum FA level was measured by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Sarcopenia was diagnosed using the cut-off points specified for the Asian population. After adjusting for sex, age, and body mass index, subjects with sarcopenia and those with low muscle strength had 36.5% and 32.4% lower serum n-3 levels (P = 0.040 and 0.030), respectively, than controls. The odds ratios per standard deviation increment in serum n-3 level for sarcopenia and low muscle strength were 0.29 and 0.40 (P = 0.015 and 0.028), respectively. A higher serum n-3 level was significantly associated with greater muscle strength (P = 0.038). These findings suggest a possible protective effect of n-3 FA on human muscle homeostasis. Further well-designed large-scale longitudinal studies are necessary to understand the definite role of circulating n-3 FA level in sarcopenia risk assessment.
Effectiveness of a Very Low Calorie Ketogenic Diet on Testicular Function in Overweight/Obese Men
Authors: Mongioì Laura M. , Cimino Laura , Condorelli Rosita A. , Magagnini Maria Cristina , Barbagallo Federica , Cannarella Rossella , La Vignera Sandro , Calogero Aldo E.
Published: September 2020

Background: Obesity has become an increasingly worrisome reality. A very-low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) represents a promising option by which to achieve significant weight loss. This study sought to evaluate the effectiveness of VLCKD on metabolic parameters and hormonal profiles of obese male patients. Methods: We enrolled 40 overweight/obese men who consumed VLCKD for at least eight weeks. Body weight, waist circumference, fasting glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, creatinine, uric acid, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, vitamin D, luteinizing hormone (LH), total testosterone (TT), and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were calculated before and after VLCKD consumption. We additionally determined the homeostasis model assessment index and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) values. Results: After VLCKD (13.5 ± 0.83 weeks), the mean body weight loss was 21.05 ± 1.44 kg; the glucose homeostasis and lipid profile were improved significantly; serum vitamin D, LH, and TT levels were increased and the PSA levels were decreased significantly as compared with pretreatment values. These results are of interest since obesity can lead to hypogonadism and in turn, testosterone deficiency is associated with impaired glucose homeostasis, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes mellitus. Moreover, a close relationship between obesity, insulin resistance, and/or hyperinsulinemia and increased prostate volume has been reported, with a consequent greater risk of developing lower urinary tract symptoms. Conclusions: VLCKD is an effective tool against obesity and could be a noninvasive, rapid, and valid means to treat obese patients with metabolic hypogonadism and lower urinary tract symptoms.
Morphological Description of the Early Events during the Invasion of Acanthamoeba castellanii Trophozoites in a Murine Model of Skin Irradiated under UV-B Light
Authors: Hernández-Jasso Mariana , Hernández-Martínez Dolores , Avila-Acevedo José Guillermo , Benítez-Flores José del Carmen , Gallegos-Hernández Isis Amara , García-Bores Ana María , Espinosa-González Adriana Montserrat , Villamar-Duque Tomás Ernesto , Castelan-Ramírez Ismael , González-Valle María del Rosario , Omaña-Molina Maritza
Published: September 2020

Skin infections have been associated with Acanthamoeba, nevertheless the events during skin invasion and UV-B light effects on it are unknown. The early morphological events of Acanthamoeba castellanii skin invasion are shown in SKH-1 mice that were chronically UV-B light irradiated. Mice that developed skin lesions (group 1) were topical and intradermally inoculated with A. castellanii trophozoites and sacrificed 48 h or 18 days later. Mice that showed no skin lesions (group 2) were intradermally inoculated and sacrificed 24, 48 or 72 h later. Mice ventral areas were considered controls with and without trophozoites intradermally inoculated. Skin samples were processed by histological and immunohistochemistry techniques. In group 1, trophozoites were immunolocalized in dermal areas, hair cysts, sebaceous glands, and blood vessels, and collagen degradation was observed. One of these mice shown trophozoites in the spleen, liver, and brain. In group 2, few trophozoites nearby collagenolytic activity zones were observed. In control samples, nor histological damage and no trophozoites were observed. Adherence and collagenolytic activity by A. castellanii were corroborated in vitro. We can infer that UV-B light irradiated skin could favor A. castellanii invasiveness causing damage in sites as far away as the brain, confirming the invasive capacity and pathogenic potential of these amphizoic amoebae.
First Report on the Finding of Listeria mnocytogenes ST121 Strain in a Dolphin Brain
Authors: Sévellec Yann , Torresi Marina , Félix Benjamin , Palma Féderica , Centorotola Gabriella , Bilei Stefano , Senese Matteo , Terracciano Giuliana , Leblanc Jean-Charles , Pomilio Francesco , Roussel Sophie
Published: September 2020

Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) is a ubiquitous bacterium that causes the foodborne illness, listeriosis. Clonal complexes (CC), such as CC121, are overrepresented in the food production industry, and are rarely reported in animals and the environment. Working within a European-wide project, we investigated the routes by which strains are transmitted from environments and animals to food and the food production environment (FPE). In this context, we report, for the first time, the occurrence of a ST121 (CC121) strain isolated from a dolphin brain. The genome was compared with the genomes of 376 CC121 strains. Genomic comparisons showed that 16 strains isolated from food were the closest to the dolphin strain. Like most of the food strains analyzed here, the dolphin strain included genomic features (transposon Tn6188, plasmid pLM6179), both described as being associated with the strain’s adaptation to the FPE. Like all 376 strains, the dolphin strain contained a truncated actA gene and inlA gene, both described as being associated with attenuated virulence. Despite this fact, the strain was able to cross blood-brain barrier in immunosuppressed dolphin exposed polychlorinated biphenyl and invaded by parasites. Our data suggest that the dolphin was infected by a food-related strain released into the Mediterranean Sea.
Learning from Practice: How East Lancashire Hospitals’ Pharmacy Service Has Embraced Information Technology
Authors: Gray Alistair , Mackie Clare , Price William , Coupe Emma , Holgate Susan , Watson Emma , Eatough John , Fletcher Neil , Hodson Karen , Mantzourani Efi
Published: September 2020

The ethos of the pharmacy service at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust (ELHT) could be described as ‘let’s make things better’. We have a history of innovation involving technology and people; one without the other does not work but together they are synergistic. The Trust currently does not have an electronic patient record (ePR) or electronic prescribing and medicines administration (ePMA), although we do have electronic prescribing for chemotherapy. However, like all Trusts, we have many electronic systems which offer interoperability, or can support making it easier for the pharmacy team to do a good job. This article describes the many fronts we have worked on over the last ten plus years. Taken individually, the elements cannot be considered as revolutionary; together, they have helped us develop and deliver the safe, personal and effective pharmacy service that we call dedicated ward pharmacy.
Functional Traits Plasticity of the Invasive Herb Argemone ochroleuca Sweet in Different Arid Habitats
Authors: Assaeed Abdulaziz M. , Al-Rowaily Saud L. , El-Bana Magdy I. , Hegazy Ahmad K. , Dar Basharat A. , Abd-ElGawad Ahmed M.
Published: September 2020

Understanding the strategies and mechanisms of invasive species could guide their control and management especially in arid ecosystems. This study compares the vegetative and reproductive functional traits of the invasive Mexican poppy (Argemone ochroleuca), in seven habitat types, in southwestern Saudi Arabia. The results showed that the aboveground phenological attributes such as plant height, leaf area, and leaf dry mass attained the highest values in the wadi channels, whereas these attributes attained the lowest values in the mountain ranges. Maximum specific leaf area, root parameters, and all reproductive traits were recorded in the abandoned fields. In contrast to all other habitats, populations from abandoned fields had a greater investment of resources in belowground structures, while the population growing in the wadi channels and mountain ranges habitat allocated more energy to vegetative parts. The plasticity in vegetative and reproductive resource allocation in A. ochroleuca is an important mechanism in determining its colonizing ability in different habitat types and expanding the distribution range. The present data of the functional traits of A. ochroleuca agree with the resource fluctuation hypothesis, where the plant flourished in the abandoned fields that attained the highest values of organic matter and nutrients. Therefore, the restoration of these disturbed habitats could improve the resistance toward invasion by this noxious weed.
Orange Leafhopper Cicadulina bipunctata Feeding Induces Gall Formation Nitrogen Dependently and Regulates Gibberellin Signaling
Authors: Miyazaki Sho , Kasahara Keita , Matsui Soh , Tokuda Makoto , Saikawa Yoko
Published: September 2020

Orange leafhopper Cicadulina bipunctata feeding induces wallaby ear symptoms, namely growth suppression and gall formation characterized by severe swelling of leaf veins, on various Poaceae, thereby leading to low crop yields. Here, we investigated the development of wallaby ear symptoms on rice seedlings due to C. bipunctata feeding. After confirming that C. bipunctata feeding induces growth suppression and gall formation on rice seedlings, we further demonstrated that gall formation score decreased with decreasing levels of nitrogen in the medium and that C. bipunctata feeding induces the expression levels of nitrogen transporter genes. These gene expression changes may participate in the nutrient accumulation observed in galled tissues and in gall formation. In addition, these expression changes should induce growth promotion but the inhibition of gibberellin signaling by C. bipunctata feeding might be the reason why growth is suppressed. Treatment with plant growth regulators did not affect gall formation, suggesting the existence of a complex gall formation mechanism by C. bipunctata feeding.
Melatonin Counteracts Drought Induced Oxidative Damage and Stimulates Growth, Productivity and Fruit Quality Properties of Tomato Plants
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed F. M. , Elbar Ola H. Abd , Farag Reham , Hikal Mohamed , El-Kelish Amr , El-Yazied Ahmed Abou , Alkahtani Jawaher , El-Gawad Hany G. Abd
Published: September 2020

Melatonin “N-Acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine” (MT) has recently been considered as a new plant growth regulator with multiple physiological functions. Although many previous studies have confirmed that exogenous applied-MT can alleviate the deleterious effects of drought stress in many plant species, most of these studies were exclusive on seeds, seedlings, and young plants for a short period of their life cycles. Therefore, the knowledge of using MT as a potential promising agricultural foliar application to improve crop productivity and quality is still insufficient under adverse open field conditions. In this study, we investigated the effect of MT as a foliar application at 0, 20, and 40 ppm on tomato plants that were grown in the open field under the long term of optimal and deficit irrigation conditions. The results indicated that exogenous MT significantly enhanced plant growth, chlorophyll and activities of antioxidant enzymes, including ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POX). This improvement was associated with a marked reduction in proline and soluble sugars. In addition, applied-MT worked as a protective agent against oxidative damage by reducing the cellular content of toxic substances such as H2O2 and malondialdehyde (MDA). Similarly, MT-treated plants showed greater total fruit yield with improving its quality attributes like total soluble solids (TSS), ascorbic acid, and lycopene. Generally, the highest significant fruit yield either under well-watered (13.7%) or water deficit (37.4%) conditions was achieved by the treatment of 20 ppm MT. These results indicate that exogenous MT played an essential role in enhancing tomato tolerance to deficit irrigation and could be recommended as a promising agricultural treatment under such conditions.
Verification of the Field Productivity and Bioequivalence of a Medicinal Plant (Polygonum multiflorum) Developed Using an In Vitro Culture Method
Authors: Kim Yong-Goo , Komakech Richard , Jeong Dae Hui , Jeon Kwonseok , Park Yunmi , Lee Tae Kyoung , Kim Ki Hyun , Moon Byeong Cheol , Kang Youngmin
Published: September 2020

Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. is a perennial plant that belongs to Polygonaceae. Root tissues are the main plant parts used as medicinal herbs in Korean oriental medicine. The P. multiflorum tuber is well known for its medicinal properties in Korean oriental medicine, and it contains a number of useful substances (secondary metabolites of emodin, 2,3,5,4′-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-d-glucoside (TSG), etc.) that are increasing in demand, as several studies show that they have beneficial effects on the human body. In this study, the production volumes and useful material content differences between cultured P. multiflorum seedlings (culture seedlings: CSs), which had been grown using a tissue culture technique under optimized conditions, and existing varieties in circulation (seed seedlings: SSs) were determined using a long-term field test. The growth characteristics of the underground parts were investigated by harvesting the tuberous roots (medicinal parts) after 1 year, and the results showed that the fresh and dry weights of the CS tubers were higher than those of the SS tubers. However, the SS rootlets had higher fresh and dry weights than the CS rootlets. A liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry component analysis of the P. multiflorum tubers and a Fourier transform near-infrared spectrophotometer analysis of the roots were undertaken. The results showed that the levels of TSG, which is a medicinal substance produced by P. multiflorum, were higher in the CSs than in the SSs, but the differences were not significant. The CS results from this study will inform future studies on the mass production of P. multiflorum in the field because the medicinal area was greater in CSs than in SSs.
Fabrication of a Polycaprolactone/Alginate Bipartite Hybrid Scaffold for Osteochondral Tissue Using a Three-Dimensional Bioprinting System
Authors: Yu JunJie , Lee SuJeong , Choi Sunkyung , Kim Kee K. , Ryu Bokyeong , Kim C-Yoon , Jung Cho-Rok , Min Byoung-Hyun , Xin Yuan-Zhu , Park Su A , Kim Wandoo , Lee Donghyun , Lee JunHee
Published: September 2020

Osteochondral defects, including damage to both the articular cartilage and the subchondral bone, are challenging to repair. Although many technological advancements have been made in recent years, there are technical difficulties in the engineering of cartilage and bone layers, simultaneously. Moreover, there is a great need for a valuable in vitro platform enabling the assessment of osteochondral tissues to reduce pre-operative risk. Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting systems may be a promising approach for fabricating human tissues and organs. Here, we aimed to develop a polycaprolactone (PCL)/alginate bipartite hybrid scaffold using a multihead 3D bioprinting system. The hybrid scaffold was composed of PCL, which could improve the mechanical properties of the construct, and alginate, encapsulating progenitor cells that could differentiate into cartilage and bone. To differentiate the bipartite hybrid scaffold into osteochondral tissue, a polydimethylsiloxane coculture system for osteochondral tissue (PCSOT) was designed and developed. Based on evaluation of the biological performance of the novel hybrid scaffold, the PCL/alginate bipartite scaffold was successfully fabricated; importantly, our findings suggest that this PCSOT system may be applicable as an in vitro platform for osteochondral tissue engineering.
Stereocomplexation of Poly(lactic acid) and Chemical Crosslinking of Ethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate (EGDMA) Double-Crosslinked Temperature/pH Dual Responsive Hydrogels
Authors: Wang Zhidan , Wu Jie , Shi Xiaoyu , Song Fei , Gao Wenli , Liu Shouxin
Published: September 2020

Physical crosslinking and chemical crosslinking were used to further improve the mechanical properties and stability of the gel. A temperature/pH dual sensitive and double-crosslinked gel was prepared by the stereo-complex of HEMA-PLLA20 and HEMA-PDLA20 as a physical crosslinking agent, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as a chemical crosslinking agent, and azodiisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as an initiator for free radical polymerization. This paper focused on the performance comparison of chemical crosslinked gel, a physical crosslinked gel, and a dual crosslinked gel. The water absorption, temperature, and pH sensitivity of the three hydrogels were studied by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and swelling performance research. We used a thermal analysis system (TGA) and dynamic viscoelastic spectrometer to study thermal properties and mechanical properties of these gels. Lastly, the in vitro drug release behavior of double-crosslinked hydrogel loaded with doxorubicin under different conditions was studied. The results show that the double-crosslinked and temperature/pH dual responsive hydrogels has great mechanical properties and good stability.
Dynamic Self-Consistent Field Approach for Studying Kinetic Processes in Multiblock Copolymer Melts
Authors: Schmid Friederike , Li Bing
Published: September 2020

The self-consistent field theory is a popular and highly successful theoretical framework for studying equilibrium (co)polymer systems at the mesoscopic level. Dynamic density functionals allow one to use this framework for studying dynamical processes in the diffusive, non-inertial regime. The central quantity in these approaches is the mobility function, which describes the effect of chain connectivity on the nonlocal response of monomers to thermodynamic driving fields. In a recent study, one of us and coworkers have developed a method to systematically construct mobility functions from reference fine-grained simulations. Here we focus on melts of linear chains in the Rouse regime and show how the mobility functions can be calculated semi-analytically for multiblock copolymers with arbitrary sequences without resorting to simulations. In this context, an accurate approximate expression for the single-chain dynamic structure factor is derived. Several limiting regimes are discussed. Then we apply the resulting density functional theory to study ordering processes in a two-length scale block copolymer system after instantaneous quenches into the ordered phase. Different dynamical regimes in the ordering process are identified: at early times, the ordering on short scales dominates; at late times, the ordering on larger scales takes over. For large quench depths, the system does not necessarily relax into the true equilibrium state. Our density functional approach could be used for the computer-assisted design of quenching protocols in order to create novel nonequilibrium materials.
Study on the Macro and Micromechanics Tensile Strength Properties of Orange Tree Pruning Fiber as Sustainable Reinforcement on Bio-Polyethylene Compared to Oil-Derived Polymers and Its Composites
Authors: Espinach Francesc X , Espinosa Eduardo , Reixach Rafel , Rodríguez Alejandro , Mutjé Pere , Tarrés Quim
Published: September 2020

Agroforestry creates value but also a huge amount of waste outside its value chain. Tree pruning is an example of such a low value waste, that is typically discarded or incinerated in the fields or used to recover energy. Nonetheless, tree prunings are rich in wood fibers that can be used as polymer reinforcement. Although there are some bio-based polymers, the majority of industries use oil-based ones. The election of the materials is usually based on a ratio between properties and cost. Bio-based polymers are more expensive than oil-based ones. This work shows how a bio-polyethylene matrix can be reinforced with fibers from orange tree prunings to obtain materials with notable tensile properties. These bio-based materials can show a balanced cost due to the use of a cheap reinforcement with an expensive matrix. The matrix used showed a tensile strength of 18.65 MPa, which reached 42.54 MPa after the addition of 50 wt.% of reinforcement. The obtained values allow the use of the studied composite to replace polypropylene and some of its composites under tensile loads.
Bacterial Nanocellulose—A Biobased Polymer for Active and Intelligent Food Packaging Applications: Recent Advances and Developments
Authors: Ludwicka Karolina , Kaczmarek Monika , Białkowska Aneta
Published: September 2020

The aim of this review is to provide an overview of recent findings related to bacterial cellulose application in bio-packaging industry. This constantly growing sector fulfils a major role by the maintenance of product safety and quality, protection against environmental impacts that affect the shelf life. Conventional petroleum-based plastic packaging are still rarely recyclable and have a number of harmful environmental effects. Herein, we discuss the most recent studies on potential good alternative to plastic packaging—bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), known as an ecological, safe, biodegradable, and chemically pure biopolymer. The limitations of this bio-based packaging material, including relatively poor mechanical properties or lack of antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, can be successfully overcome by its modification with a wide variety of bioactive and reinforcing compounds. BNC active and intelligent food packaging offer a new and innovative approach to extend the shelf life and maintain, improve, or monitor product quality and safety. Incorporation of different agents BNC matrices allows to obtain e.g., antioxidant-releasing films, moisture absorbers, antimicrobial membranes or pH, freshness and damage indicators, humidity, and other biosensors. However, further development and implementation of this kind of bio-packaging will highly depend on the final performance and cost-effectiveness for the industry and consumers.
Comparison of Scaffolds Fabricated via 3D Printing and Salt Leaching: In Vivo Imaging, Biodegradation, and Inflammation
Authors: Kwon Doo Yeon , Park Joon Yeong , Lee Bun Yeoul , Kim Moon Suk
Published: September 2020

In this work, we prepared fluorescently labeled poly(ε-caprolactone-ran-lactic acid) (PCLA-F) as a biomaterial to fabricate three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds via salt leaching and 3D printing. The salt-leached PCLA-F scaffold was fabricated using NaCl and methylene chloride, and it had an irregular, interconnected 3D structure. The printed PCLA-F scaffold was fabricated using a fused deposition modeling printer, and it had a layered, orthogonally oriented 3D structure. The printed scaffold fabrication method was clearly more efficient than the salt leaching method in terms of productivity and repeatability. In the in vivo fluorescence imaging of mice and gel permeation chromatography of scaffolds removed from rats, the salt-leached PCLA scaffolds showed slightly faster degradation than the printed PCLA scaffolds. In the inflammation reaction, the printed PCLA scaffolds induced a slightly stronger inflammation reaction due to the slower biodegradation. Collectively, we can conclude that in vivo biodegradability and inflammation of scaffolds were affected by the scaffold fabrication method.
An Amazingly Simple, Fast and Green Synthesis Route to Polyaniline Nanofibers for Efficient Energy Storage
Authors: ur Rahman Sami , Röse Philipp , ul Haq Ali Shah Anwar , Krewer Ulrike , Bilal Salma
Published: September 2020

The major drawbacks of the conventional methods for preparing polyaniline (PANI) are the large consumptions of toxic chemicals and long process durations. This paper presents a remarkably simple and green route for the chemical oxidative synthesis of PANI nanofibers, utilizing sodium phytate as a novel and environmentally friendly plant derived dopant. The process shows a remarkable reduction in the synthesis time and usage of toxic chemicals with good dispersibility and exceedingly high conductivity up to 10 S cm−1 of the resulting PANI at the same time. A detailed characterization of the PANI samples has been made showing excellent relationships between their structure and properties. Particularly, the electrochemical properties of the synthesized PANI as electrode material for supercapacitors were analyzed. The PANI sample, synthesized at pre-optimized conditions, exhibited impressive supercapacitor performance having a high specific capacitance (Csp) (832.5 Fg−1 and 528 Fg−1 at 1 Ag−1 and 40 Ag−1, respectively) as calculated from galvanostatic charge/discharge (GCD) curves. A good rate capability with a capacitance retention of 67.6% of its initial value was observed. The quite low solution resistance (Rs) value of 281.0 × 10−3 Ohm and charge transfer resistance value (Rct) of 7.44 Ohm represents the excellence of the material. Further, a retention of 95.3% in coulombic efficiency after 1000 charge discharge cycles, without showing any significant degradation of the material, was also exhibited.
Fabrication of Piezoelectric PVDF/PAR Composites Using a Sheath-Core Fiber Method
Authors: Jeon Min Hong , Lee Yu Rim , Lim Hyeon Soo , Won Jong Sung , Lee Seung Goo
Published: September 2020

We report the preparation of sheath-core type fibers made from poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and polyarylate (PAR) using melt conjugate spinning to fabricate piezolectric composites. The morphology of this sheath-core fiber was determined through scanning electron microscopy. Subsequently, by the compression molding of the PVDF/PAR sheath-core fiber assembly, we fabricated PVDF/PAR composites exhibiting piezoelectric properties. For enhancing the piezoelectric properties, we increased the concentration of PVDF β-crystalline phase in the PVDF/PAR composite through poling post-treatments. The resulting crystal structure of PVDF was confirmed through infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. A universal testing machine was employed to measure the tensile properties of the PVDF/PAR composites. Finally, through a hydrothermal growing method, ZnO was coated on the composite surface to enhance the piezoelectric properties, which were subsequently optimized by varying the hydrothermal growing conditions.
Development of Biodegradable Flame-Retardant Bamboo Charcoal Composites, Part I: Thermal and Elemental Analyses
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Zhang Liang , Semple Kate , Zhang Min , Zhang Wenbiao , Dai Chunping
Published: September 2020

In this study, bamboo charcoal (BC) was used as a substitute filler for bamboo powder (BP) in a lignocellulose-plastic composite made from polylactic acid (PLA), with aluminum hypophosphite (AHP) added as a fire retardant. A set of BC/PLA/AHP composites were successfully prepared and tested for flame-retardancy properties. Objectives were to (a) assess compatibility and dispersibility of BC and AHP fillers in PLA matrix, and (b) improve flame-retardant properties of PLA composite. BC reduced flexural properties while co-addition of AHP enhanced bonding between PLA and BC, improving strength and ductility properties. Adding AHP drastically reduced the heat release rate and total heat release of the composites by 72.2% compared with pure PLA. The formation of carbonized surface layers in the BC/PLA/AHP composites effectively improved the fire performance index (FPI) and reduced the fire growth index (FGI). Flame-retardant performance was significantly improved with limiting oxygen index (LOI) of BC/PLA/AHP composite increased to 31 vol%, providing a V-0 rating in UL-94 vertical flame test. Adding AHP promoted earlier initial thermal degradation of the surface of BC/PLA/AHP composites with a carbon residue rate up to 40.3%, providing a protective layer of char. Further raw material and char residue analysis are presented in Part II of this series.
Directionally-Grown Carboxymethyl Cellulose/Reduced Graphene Oxide Aerogel with Excellent Structure Stability and Adsorption Capacity
Authors: Zhao Mengke , Zhang Sufeng , Fang Guigan , Huang Chen , Wu Ting
Published: September 2020

A novel three-dimensional carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composite aerogel crosslinked by poly (methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic acid)/poly (ethylene glycol) system via a directional freezing technique exhibits high structure stability while simultaneously maintaining its excellent adsorption capacity to remove organic dyes from liquid. A series of crosslinked aerogels with different amounts of GO were investigated for their adsorption capacity of methylene blue (MB), which were found to be superb adsorbents, and the maximum adsorption capacity reached 520.67 mg/g with the incorporation of rGO. The adsorption kinetics and isotherm studies revealed that the adsorption process followed the pseudo-second-order model and the Langmuir adsorption model, and the adsorption was a spontaneous process. Furthermore, the crosslinked aerogel can be easily recycled after washing with dilute HCl solution, which could retain over 97% of the adsorption capacity after recycling five times. These excellent properties endow the crosslinked CMC/rGO aerogel’s potential in wastewater treatment and environment protection.