bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, Physical Activity, and Their Combination with Semen Quality: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Danielewicz Anna , Morze Jakub , Przybyłowicz Mariusz , Przybyłowicz Katarzyna Eufemia
Published: December 2019

The influence of individual lifestyle factors is widely described in studies on semen quality. However, their synergistic effect is often neglected. The aim of the study was to examine the association between semen quality and dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet, physical activity (PA), and the two separately and in combination. A cross-sectional study was carried out among 207 men aged 20–55. Dietary data were collected by a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and analysed according to the DASH scoring index. Physical activity was evaluated by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Semen parameters were assessed via the computer-aided semen analysis (CASA). Adherence to the DASH diet was associated with higher sperm count (ΔT3-T1 = 82.1 mln/ej) and concentration (ΔT3-T1 = 24.6 mln/mL). Higher PA was related to higher sperm count (ΔT3-T1 = 69.4 mln/ej), total (ΔT3-T1 = 11.9%), and progressive motility (ΔT3-T1 = 8.5%) and morphology (ΔT3-T1 = 2.8%) in the crude model and remained significant after adjustment. The combination of the DASH diet and PA, was significantly positively associated with sperm count (ΔT3-T1 = 98.1 mln/ej), sperm concentration (ΔT3-T1 = 17.5 mln/mL), total (ΔT3-T1 = 11.8%), and progressive motility (ΔT3-T1 = 10.0%) and morphology (ΔT3-T1 = 3.3%) in both models. Adherence to the DASH diet was related to higher sperm count and concentration, whereas after its combination with physical activity it was also positively correlated with sperm motility and morphology.
High Dietary Kuding Tea Extract Supplementation Induces Hepatic Xenobiotic-Metabolizing Enzymes—A 6-Week Feeding Study in Mice
Authors: Wüpper Svenja , Fischer Alexandra , Lüersen Kai , Lucius Ralph , Okamoto Hinako , Ishida Yoshiyuki , Terao Keiji , Rimbach Gerald
Published: December 2019

Kuding tea (KT) is a traditional Chinese beverage rich in plant bioactives that may exhibit various health benefits. However, little is known about the safety of KT extract (KTE) when consumed long term at high doses as a dietary supplement. Therefore, in this study, we investigated aspects of the safety of KTE. Male C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat, high-fructose, Western-type diet (control) supplemented with either 12.88% γ-cyclodextrin (γCD), 7.12% KTE (comprising 0.15% ursolic acid, UA) encapsulated in 12.88% γCD (KTE-γCD), or 0.15% UA over a 6-week experimental period. The dietary treatments did not affect food intake, body weight or body composition. However, treatment with KTE-γCD, but not γCD and UA, increased liver weight and hepatic fat accumulation, which was accompanied by increased hepatic PPARγ and CD36 mRNA levels. KTE-γCD treatment elevated plasma cholesterol and CYP7A1 mRNA and protein levels compared to those in control mice. KTE-γCD substantially increased the mRNA and protein levels of hepatic CYP3A and GSTA1, which are central to the detoxification of drugs and xenobiotics. Furthermore, we observed a moderate elevation in hepatic CYP3A (5-fold change) and GSTA1 (1.7-fold change) mRNA levels in UA-fed mice. In vitro data collected in HepG2 cells indicated a dose-dependent increase in hepatic cytotoxicity in response to KTE treatment, which may have been partly mediated by UA. Overall, the present data may contribute to the safety assessment of KTE and suggest that KTE encapsulated in γCD affects liver fat storage and the hepatic phase I and phase II responses in mice.
Safeness of Diets Based on Gluten-Free Buckwheat Bread Enriched with Seeds and Nuts—Effect on Oxidative and Biochemical Parameters in Rat Serum
Authors: Świeca Michal , Regula Julita , Suliburska Joanna , Zlotek Urszula , Gawlik-Dziki Urszula , Ferreira Isabel M. P. L. V. O.
Published: December 2019

Buckwheat breads enriched with seeds (e.g., poppy, carum, amaranth, sunflower, and pumpkin) and nuts can be excellent sources of selected macro- and microelements and bioactive components, such as phenolics, essential oils, unsaturated fatty acids, fiber, and vitamins; however, no studies described their impacts on body biochemical parameters and antioxidant status. The aim of this study was to a determine the safety (the analyses of blood morphological and biochemical parameters) of short-term diets based on buckwheat breads supplemented with the commonly used functional ingredients. Additionally, we confirmed the usefulness of these fortified breads in a reduction of blood cholesterol and triacylglycerols, as well as an improvement of in vivo antioxidant status of Wistar rats. Enriched breads presented an increased phenolic content; however, it has not been translated into an elevation of antioxidant capacities. During short-term in vivo experiments, the studied breads increased the body mass of the rats, except the control buckwheat bread. Compared to the control, the poppy-milk bread markedly lowered (–23%) and egg yolk–carum bread significantly increased (+17%) the total cholesterol concentration in serum. All the fortified breads decreased triacylglycerols’ levels by about 50%. Bread enriched with the poppy–milk, milk-seed, egg yolk–carum, and a mix of additives decreased superoxide dismutase activity by 68%, 66%, 73%, and 71%, respectively. Catalase activity was significantly decreased in the rats fed with carum bread (–62%) and markedly increased in the groups fed with egg yolk–carum bread (+89%), hazel nuts–amaranth bread (+72%), and milk–seeds bread (+65%). The results confirmed the usefulness and safety of functional additives in buckwheat breads.
Human Milk Feeding in Preterm Infants: What Has Been Done and What Is to Be Done
Authors: Verduci Elvira , Giannì Maria Lorella , Di Benedetto Alessia
Published: December 2019

Human milk is recommended as the natural feeding for both term and preterm infants for the several health benefits associated with its consumption [...]
Comparison of the Effects of Brazil Nut Oil and Soybean Oil on the Cardiometabolic Parameters of Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Costa e Silva Lívia Martins , Pereira de Melo Maria Luisa , Faro Reis Fernando Vinicius , Monteiro Marta Chagas , dos Santos Savio Monteiro , Quadros Gomes Bruno Alexandre , Meller da Silva Luiza Helena
Published: December 2019

Recent evidence suggests that replacing saturated fat with unsaturated fat is beneficial for cardiovascular health. This study compared the effects of Brazil nut oil (BNO) and soybean oil (SO) supplementation for 30 days on anthropometric, blood pressure, biochemical, and oxidative parameters in patients with metabolic syndrome (MS). Thirty-one patients with MS were randomly allocated to receive 30 sachets with 10 mL each of either BNO (n = 15) or SO (n = 16) for daily supplementation. Variables were measured at the beginning of the study and after 30 days of intervention. No change in anthropometric and blood pressure variables were observed (p > 0.05). Total (p = 0.0253) and low-density lipoprotein (p = 0.0437) cholesterol increased in the SO group. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased (p = 0.0087) and triglycerides increased (p = 0.0045) in the BNO group. Malondialdehyde levels decreased in the BNO group (p = 0.0296) and total antioxidant capacity improved in the SO group (p = 0.0110). Although the addition of oils without lifestyle interventions did not affect anthropometric findings or blood pressure and promoted undesirable results in the lipid profile in both groups, daily supplementation of BNO for 30 days decreased lipid peroxidation, contributing to oxidative stress reduction.
A Peculiar Case of Pneumonia due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae in a Child with Cystic Fibrosis and Sensibilization to Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Peccini Laura , Pennoni Serena , Mencarini Valeria , Saponara Marco , Palladino Nicola , Principi Nicola , Pennoni Guido , Esposito Susanna
Published: December 2019

Aspergillus fumigatus plays a major role in pulmonary exacerbations in patients with cystic fibrosis. The most common A. fumigatus diseases are those based on immune-mediated response to A. fumigatus antigens; including allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). In this condition; the presence of A. fumigatus in the lower respiratory tract triggers an IgE-mediated hypersensitivity response that causes airway inflammation; bronchospasms; and bronchiectasis. This case report describes a ten-year-old male patient suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF) in whom the diagnosis of ABPA occurred in association with pneumonia due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae more than two weeks after hospitalization. This case is a good example of how difficult the identification of ABPA in CF patients can be and highlights that ABPA can occur in association with co-infections due to other pathogens. In order to avoid the risk of a late ABPA diagnosis, it is imperative that the diagnostic criteria guidelines are reviewed and standardized.
Sulforaphane-Loaded Ultradeformable Vesicles as A Potential Natural Nanomedicine for the Treatment of Skin Cancer Diseases
Authors: Cristiano Maria Chiara , Froiio Francesca , Spaccapelo Roberta , Mancuso Antonia , Nisticò Steven P. , Udongo Betty P. , Fresta Massimo , Paolino Donatella
Published: December 2019

Sulforaphane is a multi-action drug and its anticancer activity is the reason for the continuous growth of attention being paid to this drug. Sulforaphane shows an in vitro antiproliferative activity against melanoma and other skin cancer diseases. Unfortunately, this natural compound cannot be applied in free form on the skin due to its poor percutaneous permeation determined by its physico-chemical characteristics. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate ethosomes® and transfersomes® as ultradeformable vesicular carriers for the percutaneous delivery of sulforaphane to be used for the treatment of skin cancer diseases. The physico-chemical features of the ultradeformable vesicles were evaluated. Namely, ethosomes® and transfersomes® had mean sizes <400 nm and a polydispersity index close to 0. The stability studies demonstrated that the most suitable ultradeformable vesicles to be used as topical carriers of sulforaphane were ethosomes® made up of ethanol 40% (w/v) and phospholipon 90G 2% (w/v). In particular, in vitro studies of percutaneous permeation through human stratum corneum and epidermis membranes showed an increase of the percutaneous permeation of sulforaphane. The antiproliferative activity of sulforaphane-loaded ethosomes® was tested on SK-MEL 28 and improved anticancer activity was observed in comparison with the free drug.
Utilizing Liposomal Quercetin and Gallic Acid in Localized Treatment of Vaginal Candida Infections
Authors: Giordani Barbara , Basnet Purusotam , Mishchenko Ekaterina , Luppi Barbara , Škalko-Basnet Nataša
Published: December 2019

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a widely spread fungal infection that causes itching, pain and inflammation at the vaginal site. Although common, currently available treatment suffers from limited efficacy and high recurrence. In addition, the growing problem of resistance to azole drugs used in current treatments emphasizes the need for superior treatment options. Antimicrobial polyphenols are an attractive approach offering multitargeting therapy. We aimed to develop novel liposomes for simultaneous delivery of two polyphenols (quercetin, Q, and gallic acid, GA) that, when released within the vaginal cavity, act in synergy to eradicate infection while alleviating the symptoms of VVC. Q was selected for its anti-itching and anti-inflammatory properties, while GA for its reported activity against Candida. Novel liposomes containing only Q (LP-Q), only GA (LP-GA) or both polyphenols (LP-Q+GA) were in the size range around 200 nm. Q was efficiently entrapped in both LP-Q and in LP-Q+GA (85%) while the entrapment of GA was higher in LP-Q+GA (30%) than in LP-GA (25%). Liposomes, especially LP-Q+GA, promoted sustained release of both polyphenols. Q and GA acted in synergy, increasing the antioxidant activities of a single polyphenol. Polyphenol-liposomes were not cytotoxic and displayed stronger anti-inflammatory effects than free polyphenols. Finally, LP-GA and LP-Q+GA considerably reduced C. albicans growth.
Pharmacogenomic Characterization in Bipolar Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Fortinguerra Stefano , Sorrenti Vincenzo , Giusti Pietro , Zusso Morena , Buriani Alessandro
Published: December 2019

The holistic approach of personalized medicine, merging clinical and molecular characteristics to tailor the diagnostic and therapeutic path to each individual, is steadily spreading in clinical practice. Psychiatric disorders represent one of the most difficult diagnostic challenges, given their frequent mixed nature and intrinsic variability, as in bipolar disorders and depression. Patients misdiagnosed as depressed are often initially prescribed serotonergic antidepressants, a treatment that can exacerbate a previously unrecognized bipolar condition. Thanks to the use of the patient’s genomic profile, it is possible to recognize such risk and at the same time characterize specific genetic assets specifically associated with bipolar spectrum disorder, as well as with the individual response to the various therapeutic options. This provides the basis for molecular diagnosis and the definition of pharmacogenomic profiles, thus guiding therapeutic choices and allowing a safer and more effective use of psychotropic drugs. Here, we report the pharmacogenomics state of the art in bipolar disorders and suggest an algorithm for therapeutic regimen choice.
Both IgM and IgG Antibodies against Polyethylene Glycol Can Alter the Biological Activity of Methoxy Polyethylene Glycol-Epoetin Beta in Mice
Authors: Chang Tien-Ching , Chen Bing-Mae , Lin Wen-Wei , Yu Pei-Hua , Chiu Yi-Wen , Chen Yuan-Tsong , Wu Jer-Yuarn , Cheng Tian-Lu , Hwang Daw-Yang , Roffler Steve
Published: December 2019

Pre-existing antibodies that bind polyethylene glycol are present in about 40% of healthy individuals. It is currently unknown if pre-existing anti-polyethylene glycol (PEG) antibodies can alter the bioactivity of pegylated drugs with a single long PEG chain, which represents the majority of newly developed pegylated medicines. Methoxy polyethylene glycol-epoetin beta (PEG-EPO) contains a single 30 kDa PEG chain and is used to treat patients suffering from anemia. We find that the pre-existing human anti-PEG IgM and IgG antibodies from normal donors can bind to PEG-EPO. The prevalence and concentrations of anti-PEG IgM and IgG antibodies were also higher in patients that responded poorly to PEG-EPO. Monoclonal anti-PEG IgM and IgG antibodies at concentrations found in normal donors blocked the biological activity of PEG-EPO to stimulate the production of new erythrocytes in mice and accelerated the clearance of 125I-PEG-EPO, resulting in PEG-EPO accumulation primarily in the liver and spleen. Accelerated clearance by the anti-PEG IgG antibody was mediated by the Fc portion of the antibody. Importantly, infusing higher doses of PEG-EPO could compensate for the inhibitory effects of anti-PEG antibodies, suggesting that pre-existing anti-PEG antibodies can be “dosed through.” Our study indicates that the bioactivity and therapeutic activity of PEG-EPO may be reduced in patients with elevated levels of pre-existing anti-PEG antibodies. New pegylated medicines with a single long PEG chain may also be affected in patients with high levels of anti-PEG antibodies.
MRI/Photoluminescence Dual-Modal Imaging Magnetic PLGA Nanocapsules for Theranostics
Authors: Zhang Yajie , García-Gabilondo Miguel , Rosell Anna , Roig Anna
Published: December 2019

Developing multifunctional and biocompatible drug delivery nanoplatforms that integrate high drug loads and multiple imaging modalities avoiding cross-interferences is extremely challenging. Here we report on the successful chemical reaction of the high quantum yield biodegradable and photoluminescent polyester (BPLP) with the poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) polymer to fabricate biocompatible photoluminescent nanocapsules (NCs). Furthermore, we transform the PLGA-BPLP NCs into a magnetic resonance (MR)/photoluminescence dual-modal imaging theranostic platform by incorporating superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) into the polymeric shell. In vitro phantoms confirmed the excellent MRI-r2 relaxivity values of the NCs whilst the cellular uptake of these NCs was clearly observed by fluorescence optical imaging. Besides, the NCs (mean size ~270 nm) were loaded with ~1 wt% of a model protein (BSA) and their PEGylation provided a more hydrophilic surface. The NCs show biocompatibility in vitro, as hCMEC/D3 endothelial cells viability was not affected for particle concentration up to 500 μg/mL. Interestingly, NCs decorated with SPIONs can be exploited for magnetic guiding and retention.
Enhanced Somatic Embryo Induction of a Tree Peony, Paeonia ostii ‘Fengdan’, by a Combination of 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) and 1-naphthylacetic Acid (NAA)
Authors: Ren Xiuxia , Liu Ya , Jeong Byoung Ryong
Published: December 2019

Somatic embryogenesis is a preferred method for vegetative propagation due to its high propagation efficiency. In this study, zygotic embryos, cotyledons, and hypocotyls of Paeonia ostii ‘Fengdan’ were used as the explant to induce somatic embryogenesis. The results showed that a combination of 0.5 mg·L−1 thidiazuron (TDZ) and 0.5 mg·L−1 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) was effective in inducing somatic embryos from the zygotic embryo and cotyledon explants. Hypocotyls only formed somatic embryos on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with both 0.5 mg·L−1 TDZ and 0.5 mg·L−1 1-naphthylacetic acid (NAA). Moreover, the compact callus was effectively produced from zygotic embryo, cotyledon, and hypocotyl explants in medium supplemented with a combination of 3.0 mg·L−1 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) and 1.0 mg·L−1 NAA, and then converted into somatic embryos in the same medium, and the ratio of the explants with embryo induction and number of embryos induced per explant were much higher than those induced by 0.5 mg·L−1 TDZ and either 0.5 mg·L−1 2,4-D or 0.5 mg·L−1 NAA. The MS medium was better than the woody plant medium (WPM) for inducing somatic embryos from zygotic embryo and hypocotyl explants, whereas the WPM was better than the MS medium for somatic embryogenesis induction from cotyledon explants. All of the somatic embryos developed well into mature embryos on their respective media supplemented with both 3.0 mg·L−1 BA and 1.0 mg·L−1 NAA. Overall, the protocols for indirect somatic embryogenesis from zygotic embryo, cotyledon, and hypocotyl of P. ostii ‘Fengdan’ were successfully established, which can greatly facilitate their propagation and breeding processes.
Short-Term Post-Harvest Stress that Affects Profiles of Volatile Organic Compounds and Gene Expression in Rocket Salad during Early Post-Harvest Senescence
Authors: Spadafora Natasha D. , Cocetta Giacomo , Ferrante Antonio , Herbert Robert J. , Dimitrova Simone , Davoli Daniela , Fernández Marta , Patterson Valentine , Vozel Tinkara , Amarysti Canesia , Rogers Hilary J. , Müller Carsten T.
Published: December 2019

Once harvested, leaves undergo a process of senescence which shares some features with developmental senescence. These include changes in gene expression, metabolites, and loss of photosynthetic capacity. Of particular interest in fresh produce are changes in nutrient content and the aroma, which is dependent on the profile of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Leafy salads are subjected to multiple stresses during and shortly after harvest, including mechanical damage, storage or transport under different temperature regimes, and low light. These are thought to impact on later shelf life performance by altering the progress of post-harvest senescence. Short term stresses in the first 24 h after harvest were simulated in wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia). These included dark (ambient temperature), dark and wounding (ambient temperature), and storage at 4 °C in darkness. The effects of stresses were monitored immediately afterwards and after one week of storage at 10 °C. Expression changes in two NAC transcription factors (orthologues of ANAC059 and ANAC019), and a gene involved in isothiocyanate production (thiocyanate methyltransferase, TMT) were evident immediately after stress treatments with some expression changes persisting following storage. Vitamin C loss and microbial growth on leaves were also affected by stress treatments. VOC profiles were differentially affected by stress treatments and the storage period. Overall, short term post-harvest stresses affected multiple aspects of rocket leaf senescence during chilled storage even after a week. However, different stress combinations elicited different responses.
Nickel Toxicity Induced Changes in Nutrient Dynamics and Antioxidant Profiling in Two Maize (Zea mays L.) Hybrids
Authors: Amjad Muhammad , Raza Hasan , Murtaza Behzad , Abbas Ghulam , Imran Muhammad , Shahid Muhammad , Naeem Muhammad Asif , Zakir Ali , Iqbal Muhammad Mohsin
Published: December 2019

Nickel (Ni) is among the essential micronutrient heavy metals utilized by plants. However, an elevated level of Ni causes serious concerns for plants’ physiology and their survival. This study evaluated the mechanisms influencing the growth, physiology, and nutrient dynamics in two commercial maize hybrids (Syngenta and Pioneer) exposed to Ni treatments in hydroponics nutrient solution (NS). Seedlings were raised in plastic trays with quartz sand, and subsequently transferred to Hoagland’s NS at the two leaves stage. After three days of transplantation, Ni levels of 0, 20, and 40 mg L−1 were maintained in the nutrient solution. After 30 days of Ni treatments, seedlings were harvested and different growth, physiological, and nutrient concentrations were determined. The results showed that with increasing Ni concentration, the growth of maize hybrids was significantly reduced, and the maize hybrid, Pioneer, showed significantly higher growth than that of Syngenta at all levels of Ni. Higher growth in Pioneer is ascribed to elevated levels of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GR, APX, and POX), lower damage to cellular membranes (i.e., higher MSI and lower MDA), and higher tissue nutrient concentrations (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu). Furthermore, the maize hybrids showed a difference in nutrient translocation from root to shoot which could be one of the factors responsible for differential response of these hybrids against Ni treatments.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Can Compensate for the Loss of Indigenous Microbial Communities to Support the Growth of Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.)
Authors: Yu Meng , Xie Wei , Zhang Xin , Zhang Shubin , Wang Youshan , Hao Zhipeng , Chen Baodong
Published: December 2019

Soil microorganisms play important roles in nutrient mobilization and uptake of mineral nutrition in plants. Agricultural management, such as soil sterilization, can have adverse effects on plant growth because of the elimination of indigenous microorganisms. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are one of the most important beneficial soil microorganisms for plant growth. However, whether AM fungi can compensate for the loss of indigenous microbial communities to support plant growth and metabolism is largely unknown. In this study, a pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of AM fungi on plant growth and secondary metabolism in sterilized and unsterilized soil. We used liquorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.), an important medicinal plant as the host, which was inoculated with the AM fungus Rhizophagus irregularis or not and grown in unsterilized or sterilized soil. Plant photosynthesis traits, plant growth and nutrition level, concentrations of the secondary metabolites, and expression levels of biosynthesis genes were determined. The results showed that soil sterilization decreased plant growth, photosynthesis, and glycyrrhizin and liquiritin accumulation, and moreover, downregulated the expression of related biosynthesis genes. Inoculation with R. irregularis in sterilized soil offset the loss of indigenous microbial communities, resulting in plant growth and glycyrrhizin and liquiritin concentrations similar to those of plants grown in unsterilized soil. Thus, AM fungi could compensate for the loss of indigenous microbial communities by soil sterilization to support plant growth and secondary metabolism.
Using Leaf Temperature to Improve Simulation of Heat and Drought Stresses in a Biophysical Model
Authors: Perera Ruchika S. , Cullen Brendan R. , Eckard Richard J.
Published: December 2019

Despite evidence that leaf temperatures can differ by several degrees from the air, crop simulation models are generally parameterised with air temperatures. Leaf energy budget is a process-based approach that can be used to link climate and physiological processes of plants, but this approach has rarely been used in crop modelling studies. In this study, a controlled environment experiment was used to validate the use of the leaf energy budget approach to calculate leaf temperature for perennial pasture species, and a modelling approach was developed utilising leaf temperature instead of air temperature to achieve a better representation of heat stress impacts on pasture growth in a biophysical model. The controlled environment experiment assessed the impact of two combined seven-day heat (control = 25/15 °C, day/night, moderate = 30/20 °C, day/night, and severe = 35/25 °C, day/night) and drought stresses (with seven-day recovery period between stress periods) on perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata L.), tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) and chicory (Cichorium intybus L.). The leaf temperature of each species was modelled by using leaf energy budget equation and validated with measured data. All species showed limited homeothermy with the slope of 0.88 (P < 0.05) suggesting that pasture plants can buffer temperature variations in their growing environment. The DairyMod biophysical model was used to simulate photosynthesis during each treatment, using both air and leaf temperatures, and the patterns were compared with measured data using a response ratio (effect size compared to the well-watered control). The effect size of moderate heat and well-watered treatment was very similar to the measured values (~0.65) when simulated using T leaf, while T air overestimated the consecutive heat stress impacts (0.4 and 0). These results were used to test the heat stress recovery function (Tsum) of perennial ryegrass in DairyMod, finding that recovery after heat stress was well reproduced when parameterized with T sum = 20, while T sum = 50 simulated a long lag phase. Long term pasture growth rate simulations under irrigated conditions in south eastern Australia using leaf temperatures predicted 6–34% and 14–126% higher pasture growth rates, respectively at Ellinbank and Dookie, during late spring and summer months compared to the simulations using air temperatures. This study demonstrated that the simulation of consecutive heat and/or drought stress impacts on pasture production, using DairyMod, can be improved by using leaf temperatures instead of air temperature.
Manganese Homeostasis in Cyanobacteria
Authors: Eisenhut Marion
Published: December 2019

Manganese (Mn) is essential for life on earth. As a catalyst of the water oxidation reaction within photosystem II, the trace metal is responsible for the evolution of virtually all oxygen in the earth’s atmosphere. Mn acts furthermore as an activator or cofactor of numerous enzymes involved in reactive oxygen species scavenging or central and secondary metabolism. While the sufficient supply of oxygenic photosynthetic organisms with Mn is obvious for maintaining photosynthetic activity, the avoidance of cellular Mn overload is also critical. In this review, current knowledge about the Mn homeostasis network in the model cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 is presented, including transporters and regulators.
Occurrence and Risk of Metal(loid)s in Thelesperma megapotamicum Tea Plant
Authors: Samuel-Nakamura Christine , Hodge Felicia S.
Published: December 2019

This study reports on the harvesting, ingestion, and contamination of American Indian tea Thelesperma megapotamicum grown on the Navajo Reservation in New Mexico. Uranium (U) and co-metal(loid)s (As, Cd, Cs, Mo, Pb, Se, Th, and V) have contaminated local soil and plants. Tea plants were gathered for analysis near U mining impacted areas. The study collected samples of wild tea plants (n = 14), roots (n = 14), and soil (n = 12) that were analyzed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Tea harvesting activities, behavior, and ingestion information were collected via questionnaires. Harvesting took place in community fields and near roadways. Results indicate edible foliage concentration levels for Cd exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) raw medicinal plant permissible level guidelines. Tea samples collected near high traffic areas had significantly greater Cd and Mo concentrations than those collected near low traffic areas (p < 0.001). Tea sample metal(loid) concentration levels ranged from 0.019–7.916 mg/kg. When compared to established food guidelines including the WHO provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI), reference dietary intake, recommended dietary allowance, and the tolerable upper limit (UL), Cd exceeded the WHO guidelines but none exceeded the PTWI nor the UL. These findings warrant improved standardization and establishment of universal guidelines for metal(loid) intake in food.
Characterization of Polydioxanone in Near-Field Electrospinning
Authors: E. King William , Gillespie Yvonne , Gilbert Keaton , L. Bowlin Gary
Published: December 2019

Electrospinning is a popular method for creating random, non-woven fibrous templates for biomedical applications, and a subtype technique termed near-field electrospinning (NFES) was devised by reducing the air gap distance to millimeters. This decreased working distance paired with precise translational motion between the fiber source and collector allows for the direct writing of fibers. We demonstrate a near-field electrospinning device designed from a MakerFarm Prusa i3v three-dimensional (3D) printer to write polydioxanone (PDO) microfibers. PDO fiber diameters were characterized over the processing parameters: Air gap, polymer concentration, translational velocity, needle gauge, and applied voltage. Fiber crystallinity and individual fiber uniformity were evaluated for the polymer concentration and translational fiber deposition velocity. Fiber stacking was evaluated for the creation of 3D templates to guide the alignment of human gingival fibroblasts. The fiber diameters correlated positively with polymer concentration, applied voltage, and needle gauge; and inversely correlated with translational velocity and air gap distance. Individual fiber diameter variability decreases, and crystallinity increases with increasing translational fiber deposition velocity. These data resulted in the creation of tailored PDO 3D templates, which guided the alignment of primary human fibroblast cells. Together, these results suggest that NFES of PDO can be scaled to create precise geometries with tailored fiber diameters for biomedical applications.
Erratum: Amino-Functionalized Lead Phthalocyanine-Modified Benzoxazine Resin: Curing Kinetics, Thermal, and Mechanical Properties. Polymers 2019, 11, 1855
Authors: Zu Li-wu , Gao Bao-chang , Pan Zhong-cheng , Wang Jun , Dayo Abdul Qadeer , Liu Wen-bin
Published: December 2019

The authors wish to make a change to the published paper [...]
Application of Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Modulated Differential Scanning Calorimetry (MDSC) in Food and Drug Industries
Authors: Leyva-Porras César , Cruz-Alcantar Pedro , Espinosa-Solís Vicente , Martínez-Guerra Eduardo , Piñón-Balderrama Claudia I. , Compean Martínez Isaac , Saavedra-Leos María Z.
Published: December 2019

Phase transition issues in the field of foods and drugs have significantly influenced these industries and consequently attracted the attention of scientists and engineers. The study of thermodynamic parameters such as the glass transition temperature (Tg), melting temperature (Tm), crystallization temperature (Tc), enthalpy (H), and heat capacity (Cp) may provide important information that can be used in the development of new products and improvement of those already in the market. The techniques most commonly employed for characterizing phase transitions are thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermomechanical analysis (TMA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Among these techniques, DSC is preferred because it allows the detection of transitions in a wide range of temperatures (−90 to 550 °C) and ease in the quantitative and qualitative analysis of the transitions. However, the standard DSC still presents some limitations that may reduce the accuracy and precision of measurements. The modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC) has overcome some of these issues by employing sinusoidally modulated heating rates, which are used to determine the heat capacity. Another variant of the MDSC is the supercooling MDSC (SMDSC). SMDSC allows the detection of more complex thermal events such as solid–solid (Ts-s) transitions, liquid–liquid (Tl-l) transitions, and vitrification and devitrification temperatures (Tv and Tdv, respectively), which are typically found at the supercooling temperatures (Tco). The main advantage of MDSC relies on the accurate detection of complex transitions and the possibility of distinguishing reversible events (dependent on the heat capacity) from non-reversible events (dependent on kinetics).
Multi-Fold Enhancement in Compressive Properties of Polystyrene Foam Using Pre-delaminated Stearate Functionalized Layer Double Hydroxides
Authors: Ogunsona Emmanuel O. , Dagnon Koffi L. , D'Souza Nandika Anne
Published: December 2019

Developing an environmentally benign styrene foam is a critical environmental need. Supercritical CO2 use in foams has proven to be a valuable path. Adding fillers to increase bubble nucleation has been pursued concurrently. A prominent filler used is high surface area fillers, such as smectic clays. However, all studies to date show a limit of 152% in compressive moduli and 260% in the compressive stress. The values, even with such gains, limit structural application. A seminal work in 1987 by Suh and Cotton proved that carbonyl linkages in calcium carbonates and CO2 interact and impact nucleation efficiency and performance in supercritical CO2 foams. In this paper, a high surface area clay (layer double hydroxides) which begins in an exfoliated state, then functionalized with a long chain alkyl carboxylate (stearic acid) is synthesized. The result is a remarkable multi-fold improvement to the compressive properties in comparison to polystyrene (PS); a 268% and 512% increase in compressive modulus and strength, respectively. Using a pre-delaminated approach, the higher surface area was achieved in the clays. The presence of the stearate improved the interactions between the clay galleries and PS through hydrophobic-hydrophobic interactions. The glass transition temperature of the nanocomposites was observed to shift to higher values after foaming. The results point to a new path to increase performance using a pre-delaminated clay with functional groups for environmentally benign foams.
Fabrication of Hybrid Membranes Containing Nylon-11 and Organic Semiconductor Particles with Potential Applications in Molecular Electronics
Authors: Sánchez-Vergara María Elena , Guevara-Martínez Elizabeth , Arreola-Castillo Alejandra , Mendoza-Sevilla Alejandra
Published: December 2019

Chemical degradation is a major disadvantage in the development of organic semiconductors. This work proposes the manufacture and characterization of organic semiconductor membranes in order to prevent semiconductor properties decreasing. Semiconductor membranes consisting of Nylon-11 and particles of π-conjugated molecular semiconductors were manufactured by high-vacuum evaporation followed by thermal relaxation. Initially, and with the aim of obtaining semiconductor particles, bulk heterojunction (BHJ) was carried out using green chemistry techniques between the zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) and the zinc hexadecafluoro-phthalocyanine (F16ZnPc) as n-type molecular semiconductors with the p-type molecular semiconductor dibenzotetrathiafulvalene (DBTTF). Consequently, the π-conjugated semiconductors particles were embedded in a Nylon-11 matrix and characterized, both structurally and considering their optical and electrical properties. Thin films of these materials were manufactured in order to comparatively study the membranes and precursor semiconductor particles. The membranes presented bandgap (Eg) values that were lower than those obtained in the films, which is an indicator of an improvement in their semiconductor capacity. Finally, the membranes were subjected to accelerated lighting conditions, to determine the stability of the polymer and the operating capacity of the membrane. After fatigue conditions, the electrical behavior of the proposed semiconductor membranes remained practically unaltered; therefore, they could have potential applications in molecular electronics. The chemical stability of membranes, which did not degrade in their polymer compound, nor in the semiconductor, was monitored by IR spectroscopy.
Carbon Materials Derived from Poly(aniline-co-p-phenylenediamine) Cryogels
Authors: Milakin Konstantin A. , Gavrilov Nemanja , Pašti Igor A. , Trchová Miroslava , Zasońska Beata A. , Stejskal Jaroslav , Bober Patrycja
Published: December 2019

Nitrogen-containing carbon derivatives were prepared by the carbonization of poly(aniline-co-p-phenylenediamine) cryogels in inert atmosphere. Lower aniline fraction in the comonomer mixture used for preparation of the cryogels led to the decrease of their thermal stability, a consequent increase of carbonization degree, and less defective structure of carbonized materials. The resulting carbonaceous products had up to 4 orders of magnitude higher specific surface area than their respective cryogel precursors, the highest value 931 m2 g−1 being achieved for carbonized poly(p-phenylenediamine) cryogel. Electrochemical characterization of the carbon derivatives demonstrated that the decrease in aniline concentration during the synthesis of the precursor cryogels led to higher gravimetric capacitance for corresponding carbonized materials. These materials can potentially be used for energy storage applications.
Enhanced Pervaporation Properties of PVA-Based Membranes Modified with Polyelectrolytes. Application to IPA Dehydration
Authors: Dmitrenko Mariia , Kuzminova Anna , Zolotarev Andrey , Ermakov Sergey , Roizard Denis , Penkova Anastasia
Published: December 2019

In this work, dense and supported pervaporation polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based membranes modified with poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) and poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate)(PSS)/PAH top nanolayers were synthesized. Two main points were investigated: the role of the polyelectrolyte PAH on water selectivity of the selective polymer matrix and the impact of the porous substrate based on polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and aromatic polysulfone amide (UPM-20®), used to get supported high-performance membranes. Various methods of analysis (fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), porosity, contact angles, ultrafiltration) were applied to study the developed membranes. Transport characteristics of the developed membranes were studied in isopropanol dehydration by pervaporation. Obtained results are discussed in the light of the structure and physicochemical characteristics of these PVA/PAH membranes and the types of porous substrate. It was shown that the PAN-supported membrane with the selective layer based on PVA/PAH modified by 10 polyelectrolyte PSS/PAH bilayers possessed ~4.5 times higher permeation flux with the same high selectivity level (99.9 wt % water in the permeate) for the dehydration of the isopropanol (20 wt % water) at 60 °C compared to the commercial analog PERVAPTM 1201.
The Puncture and Water Resistance of Polyurethane- Impregnated Fabrics after UV Weathering
Authors: Patti Antonella , Acierno Domenico
Published: December 2019

Polyurethane is a polymer adaptable to different scientific and industrial requirements; nevertheless it is also extremely susceptible to UV radiation, which compromises the physical and mechanical functionality. In this framework, our study investigated the effect of waterborne polyurethane dispersion (WPUD) applied to a polyester (PET)-based fabric, through the impregnation method, on the puncturing and water resistance of the pristine material, before and after UV weathering. Results confirmed an increment of both features in the prepared fabrics, attributed to the PUR textile treatment; but a partially loss of the gained properties in the samples due to the UV weathering. In order to improve the efficiency of the impregnating dispersions, in protecting the durability of the treated materials, the addition of different UV light stabilizers, or/and of crosslinking agent into WPUD was also tested. From the experimental data, it can be concluded that formulations based on WPUD, containing both the crosslinker and UV organic absorber, have displayed an increment of their perforation and water resistance for the treated samples with respect to the starting textile, and contemporary have preserved the features against the UV light. Finally, microscopic and spectroscopic analyses have been performed as further characterization techniques of the samples surface.
Morphology and Physicochemical Properties of Branched Polyurethane/Biopolymer Blends
Authors: Brzeska Joanna , Tercjak Agnieszka , Sikorska Wanda , Kowalczuk Marek , Rutkowska Maria
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study is the analyze the structure of branched polyurethanes based on synthetic poly([R,S]-3-hydroxybutyrate) and their blends with biopolymers and montmorillonite. The properties which would predict the potential susceptibility of these materials to degradation are also estimated. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflection analysis shows that poly([d,l]-lactide) is on the surfaces of polyurethanes, whereas chitosan and starch are included inside the blend network. Atomic force microscopy images have shown that the surfaces of investigated samples are heterogenous with the formation of spherulites in case of pure polyurethanes. The presence of biopolymers in the blend reduced the crystallinity of polyurethanes. Thermal stability of blends of polyurethanes with poly([d,l]-lactide) and polysaccharides decreased in comparison to pure polyurethanes. Although the tensile strength is reduced after the blending of polyurethanes with biopolymers, the elongation at break increased, especially in the case of polyurethane/poly([d,l]-lactide) blends. The presence of polysaccharides in the obtained blends caused the significant reduction of contact angle after one minute from water drop immersion. This hydrophilizing effect is the highest when montmorillonite has been incorporated into the chitosan blend. The estimated properties of the obtained materials suggest their potential sensitivity on environmental conditions.
Controlling the Isothermal Crystallization of Isodimorphic PBS-ran-PCL Random Copolymers by Varying Composition and Supercooling
Authors: Safari Maryam , Mugica Agurtzane , Zubitur Manuela , Martínez de Ilarduya Antxon , Muñoz-Guerra Sebastián , Müller Alejandro J.
Published: December 2019

In this work, we study for the first time, the isothermal crystallization behavior of isodimorphic random poly(butylene succinate)-ran-poly(ε-caprolactone) copolyesters, PBS-ran-PCL, previously synthesized by us. We perform nucleation and spherulitic growth kinetics by polarized light optical microscopy (PLOM) and overall isothermal crystallization kinetics by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Selected samples were also studied by real-time wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXS). Under isothermal conditions, only the PBS-rich phase or the PCL-rich phase could crystallize as long as the composition was away from the pseudo-eutectic point. In comparison with the parent homopolymers, as comonomer content increased, both PBS-rich and PCL-rich phases nucleated much faster, but their spherulitic growth rates were much slower. Therefore, the overall crystallization kinetics was a strong function of composition and supercooling. The only copolymer with the eutectic composition exhibited a remarkable behavior. By tuning the crystallization temperature, this copolyester could form either a single crystalline phase or both phases, with remarkably different thermal properties.
Hybrid Composites Based on Polypropylene with Basalt/Hazelnut Shell Fillers: The Influence of Temperature, Thermal Aging, and Water Absorption on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Kufel Anna , Kuciel Stanisław
Published: December 2019

The aim of the research was to study the effects of adding natural fillers to a polypropylene (PP) matrix on mechanical and physical properties of hybrid composites. The 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight basalt fibers (BF) and ground hazelnut shells (HS) were added to the PP matrix. Composites were produced by making use of an injection molding method. Tensile strength, tensile modulus, strain at break, Charpy impact strength, and the coefficient of thermal expansion were determined. The influence of temperature, thermal aging, and water absorption on mechanical properties was also investigated. In addition, short-time creep tests were carried out. To characterize the morphology and the filler distribution within the matrix, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used. The results showed that the addition of the two types of filler enhanced mechanical properties. Furthermore, improvements in thermal stability were monitored. After water absorption, the changes in the tensile properties of the tested composites were moderate. However, thermal aging caused a decrease in tensile strength and tensile modulus.
Effect of Fibre Orientation and Hostile Solutions on Stress Relaxation of Glass/Polyamide Composites
Authors: Reis Paulo Nobre Balbis dos , Amaro Ana Martins , Neto Maria Augusta
Published: December 2019

Polyamide creates high-performance composite materials, which are replacing the traditional epoxy composites in several applications. In this context, exposure to hostile environments is expected. On the other hand, due to the viscoelastic nature of the matrix, these composite materials are prone to stress relaxation. Therefore, the stress relaxation behaviour of glass/polyamide 6 composites was studied considering different fibre directions, as well as exposure to NaOH and HCl solutions. Stress relaxation tests on the bending mode were carried out, and the stress recorded during the loading time (7200 s). All tests were characterized by a stress decrease over time, but laminates with higher fibre angles were more prone to stress relaxation. However, exposure to hostile solutions promoted more significant decreases, where the highest stress relaxation was achieved for alkaline environments with values that were three times higher for laminates with fibres at 0° and around one and half times higher for 45° fibre alignments when compared with the control samples. Finally, the Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts (KWW) model showed that it can be used to predict stress relaxation time, due to the accuracy that was obtained between the experimental and theoretical results.