bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of CuO Loading on the Photocatalytic Activity of SrTiO3 for Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Mai Xuan Truong , Bui Duc Nguyen , Pham Van Khang , Nguyen Thi Hien Lan , Nguyen Thi To Loan , Chau Hung Dung , Tran Thi Kim Ngan
Published: September 2022

A CuO-loaded SrTiO3 catalyst showed highly photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution. This catalyst was prepared by an impregnation method and characterized by XRD, TEM, BET, XPS, Uv-vis DRS and PL techniques. Under optimum conditions, the best rate of H2 evolution of the CuO-loaded SrTiO3 catalyst is 5811 µmol h−1g−1, whereas it is a mere 34 µmol h−1g−1 for the pure SrTiO3. High efficiency, low cost and good stability are some of the merits that underline the promising potential of CuO-loaded SrTiO3 in the photocatalytic hydrogen.
On the Effects of Mixed and Deep Ocean Layers on Climate Change and Variability
Authors: Soldatenko Sergei
Published: September 2022

The ocean, one of the five major components of the Earth’s climate system, plays a key role in climate-forming processes, affecting its change and variability. The ocean influences climate over a wide range of time–space scales. To explore the climate, its components, interactions between them and, in particular, the effect of the ocean on weather and climate, researchers commonly use extremely complex mathematical models of the climate system that describe the atmospheric and ocean general circulations. However, this class of climate models requires enormous human and computing resources to simulate the climate system itself and to analyze the output results. For simple climate models, such as energy balance and similar models, the computational cost is insignificant, which is why these models represent a test tool to mimic a complex climate system and obtaining preliminary estimates of the influence of various internal and external factors on climate, its change and variability. The global mean surface temperature (GMST) and its fluctuations in time serve as critical indicators of changes in the climate system state. We apply a simple two-box ocean model to explore the effect of mixed and deep ocean layers on climate-forming processes and especially on climate change and variability. The effect of mixed and deep ocean layers on GMST is parameterized via the layers’ effective heat capacities and heat exchange between layers. For the listed parameters, the sensitivity functions were derived numerically and analytically, allowing one to obtain an idea of how the mixed and deep ocean layers affect climate change and variability. To study climate change, a deterministic version of the model was used with radiative forcing parameterized by both stepwise and linear functions. In climate variability experiments, a stochastic version of the model was applied in which the radiative forcing is considered as a delta-correlated random process.
Numerical Simulation Study of the Horizontal Submerged Jet Based on the Wray–Agarwal Turbulence Model
Authors: Hu Bo , Wang Chuan , Wang Hui , Yu Qian , Liu Jinhua , Zhu Yong , Ge Jie , Chen Xinxin , Yang Yang
Published: September 2022

The horizontal submerged jet (HSJ), as a special form of jet, is widely used in aerospace, food and drug, water engineering, and other industries. In order to further understand the mechanism of the HSJ, the Wray–Agarwal turbulence model was used to predict the HSJ with different incidence heights H/D and Reynolds number (Re) conditions in this paper. The results show that the jet horizontal height H/D has a large influence on the flow field structure. The unsteady flow within the flow field is dominated by vortexes. In addition, their distribution is relatively independent of H/D. Under different H/D conditions, the axial velocity distribution of the jet has very high similarity, all of them have an obvious velocity inflection point at x = 10D. When H/D is small, the wall attachment effect of the jet and the boundary layer effect generated at the bottom of the fluid domain have a certain role in maintaining the velocity of the jet near the wall, resulting in a significantly higher axial velocity than other H/D conditions, up to 1.29 times. In this paper, we thoroughly investigated the structure of the internal flow field and velocity distribution of the submerged horizontal jet. The results have a guiding significance for engineering practice and academic research.
The Estimation of a Remote Sensing Model of Three-Dimensional Green Space Quantity and Research into Its Cooling Effect in Hohhot, China
Authors: Dong Qian , Zhang Qiuliang
Published: September 2022

With the continuous advancement of urbanization, the urban heat island effect has become increasingly prominent. Studying the cooling effect of urban green space can provide direction for improving the comfort of urban residents and reducing the harm caused by the urban heat island. In this paper, the band information was extracted from remote sensing images, and eight vegetation indices were calculated for Hohhot, such as normalized differential vegetation index (NDVI) and vegetation coverage (VC). The land surface temperature (LST) was calculated using the split-window algorithm, and the total 3D-GSQ, the three-dimensional green space quantity per unit area (3D-GSQP), and the single plant 3D-GSQ of different tree species were measured on the spot. The relationships between 3D-GSQP and eight vegetation indexes were processed by correlation analysis and regression analysis, and the remote sensing estimation model of 3D-GSQP was established. The correlation between 3D-GSQP and LST was established, and the cooling effect was analyzed in depth. The results indicate that: (1) The contributions to 3D-GSQ types of common tree in the built-up area of Hohhot are (from large to small): Salix babylonica, Populus hopeiensis, Gleditsia sinensis Lam, Salix matsudana, and Saphora japonica; and the 3D-GSQ of single types of shrubs are (from large to small): Amygdalus triloba, syringa oblata, Sorbaria sorbifolia, ligustrum lucidum, and Euonymus alatus. (2) The linear equation with the chlorophyll vegetation index (CVI) as the independent variable is suitable for the parameters of an inversion model for the 3D-GSQP (R2 = 0.72), and the regression model of the two is: 3D-GSQP = −30.412 + 35.842 × CVI. (3) The 3D-GSQP in the study area is mainly in the range of 0–15.78 m3/m2, and in such range it has an obvious negative relationship (R2 = −0.73) with LST to the level of 0.01 (unilateral). When the 3D-GSQP increases by 1 m3/m2, the LST decreases by 0.55 °C, and this result sufficiently indicates that the urban green has an obvious cooling effect. In the future, in order to improve the living environment of urban residents, in addition to considering the green space area, we should pay more attention to the requirements of the 3D-GSQP index.
The Impact of Urban Construction Land Use Change on Carbon Emissions: Evidence from the China Land Market in 2000–2019
Authors: Peng Jiaying , Zheng Yuhang , Liu Cenjie
Published: September 2022

Urban construction land has an increasing impact on ecological carbon storage capacity and carbon emissions. Based on the theoretical analysis framework and the panel data of 278 prefecture-level cities in China from 2000 to 2019, this paper analyzes the impact of changes in urban construction land on carbon dioxide emissions. Our results suggest that the increase in urban construction land significantly promotes carbon dioxide emissions, and this conclusion still holds after selecting geographic and historical data as instrumental variables and conducting a series of robustness tests. Importantly, the newly added construction land and industrial land are important sources of increased carbon dioxide emissions, and there exist heterogenous impacts of the urban construction land on carbon emissions across different geographical distributions and different urban sizes. In addition, the results of the quantile regression show that, as the quantile level increases, the impact of changes in urban construction land on urban carbon emissions shows an inverted U-shaped trend that first increases and then decreases. Thus, our results provide evidence for promoting the coordinated development of land transaction marketization and low-carbon urban construction.
Assessing Effects of Urban Greenery on the Regulation Mechanism of Microclimate and Outdoor Thermal Comfort during Winter in China’s Cold Region
Authors: Wang Kun , Fang Xubin , Ma Yue , Xue Sihan , Yin Shi
Published: September 2022

A comfortable thermal environment in outdoor spaces is beneficial to people’s physical and mental health in cold conditions during winter. Greenery can improve outdoor thermal comfort (OTC) via microclimates in winter. Multiple methods have been employed to investigate how greenery influences OTC and microclimate. However, the underlying mechanism of how microclimate participates in the regulation of the effect of greenery on OTC is unclear. To examine the mediating effect of microclimate on the relation between greenery and OTC in cold weather during winter, we conducted meteorological measurement and thermal comfort surveys in Zhengzhou, a city in China’s cold region, from 29 to 30 December 2019. Two objective greening indices from different dimensions were extracted at twelve sampling points: (1) the green view index (GVI) from horizontal normal images from people’s perspective, and (2) the tree view factor (TVF) from vertical-upward fisheye images. With microclimatic parameters as the mediators, a comprehensive multi-step mediation analysis was conducted. The regression results revealed that the GVI and TVF were negatively associated with the thermal comfort vote (TCV) (i.e., the more greenery, the less TCV, which means the more comfortable the thermal environment). Our findings show that both GVI and TVF contribute to OTC through different mechanisms in cold climatic conditions during winter. Vegetation in sight revealed by the GVI can directly regulate OTC by affecting people’s mental feelings or other factors. Air temperature (Ta), relative humidity (RH), and wind speed (Va) served as significant partial mediators for the GVI. Moreover, there was a complete mediation for TVF–OTC correlation with Ta, RH, and Va as significant mediators. The mediating effects of microclimate accounted for 81.00% for GVI and 89.02% for TVF, respectively. The GVI is propitious to the study of people’s mental health and landscape preferences, whereas TVF is suitable for studies on microclimate adaptation.
The Categorization of L3 Vowels Near First Exposure by Spanish-English Bilinguals
Authors: Parrish Kyle
Published: September 2022

The present study examined the predictions the Perceptual Assimilation Model in the context of naïve bilingual speakers while also considering whether the predictions of third language (L3) models of morphosyntax could be extended to L3 phonology. In particular, it was asked whether several groups of Spanish-English bilinguals (constituting a fully combined design) would categorize sounds in two unknown languages, French and German, using their first language (L1) categories, second language (L2) categories, or a combination of both. 199 participants took part in the study, who made up 4 total groups: L1 English–L2 Spanish (n = 55), L1 Spanish–L2 English (n = 59), English monolingual (n = 59) and Spanish monolingual (n = 29). The participants completed a vowel categorization task, where they were asked to match four vowel sounds in French and German to their existing English and Spanish categories. The results of a series of Bayesian Multinomial regression models suggested that bilinguals categorize L3 vowels using both L1 and L2 categories according to the acoustics of the input. There was no evidence of a clear bias for either the L1 or L2 when an L3 vowel exists in both the L1 and L2. Additionally, the bilingual English participants differed from English monolinguals in the their categorization of new language sounds. These results have implications for both the PAM-L2 and L3 models, by showing that the language learners are not solely guided by their native language, and have access to both L1 and L2 categories when accounting for novel language sounds.
A Multi-Period Vehicle Routing Problem for Emergency Perishable Materials under Uncertain Demand Based on an Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Xu Yang , Lai Kin Keung , Ji Hao , Xu Yaning , Li Jia
Published: September 2022

The distribution of emergency perishable materials after a disaster, such as an earthquake, is an essential part of emergency resource dispatching. However, the traditional single-period distribution model can hardly solve this problem because of incomplete demand information for emergency perishable materials in affected sites. Therefore, for such problems we firstly construct a multi-period vehicle path distribution optimization model with the dual objectives of minimizing the cost penalty of distribution delay and the total corruption during delivery, and minimizing the total amount of demand that is not met, by applying the interval boundary and most likely value weighting method to make uncertain demand clear. Then, we formulate the differential evolutionary whale optimization algorithm (DE-WOA) combing the differential evolutionary algorithm with the whale algorithm to solve the constructed model, which is an up-and-coming algorithm for solving this type of problem. Finally, to validate the feasibility and practicality of the proposed model and the novel algorithm, a comparison between the proposed model and the standard whale optimization algorithm is performed on a numerical instance. The result indicates the proposed model converges faster and the overall optimization effect is improved by 23%, which further verifies that the improved whale optimization algorithm has better performance.
Multi-Channel EEG Emotion Recognition Based on Parallel Transformer and 3D-Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Sun Jie , Wang Xuan , Zhao Kun , Hao Siyuan , Wang Tianyu
Published: September 2022

Due to its covert and real-time properties, electroencephalography (EEG) has long been the medium of choice for emotion identification research. Currently, EEG-based emotion recognition focuses on exploiting temporal, spatial, and spatiotemporal EEG data for emotion recognition. Due to the lack of consideration of both spatial and temporal aspects of EEG data, the accuracy of EEG emotion detection algorithms employing solely spatial or temporal variables is low. In addition, approaches that use spatiotemporal properties of EEG for emotion recognition take temporal and spatial characteristics of EEG into account; however, these methods extract temporal and spatial information directly from EEG data. Since there is no reconstruction of the EEG data format, the temporal and spatial properties of the EEG data cannot be extracted efficiently. To address the aforementioned issues, this research proposes a multi-channel EEG emotion identification model based on the parallel transformer and three-dimensional convolutional neural networks (3D-CNN). First, parallel channel EEG data and position reconstruction EEG sequence data are created separately. The temporal and spatial characteristics of EEG are then retrieved using transformer and 3D-CNN models. Finally, the features of the two parallel modules are combined to form the final features for emotion recognition. On the DEAP, Dreamer, and SEED databases, the technique achieved greater accuracy in emotion recognition than other methods. It demonstrates the efficiency of the strategy described in this paper.
Effectiveness of a Multimodal Intervention on Social Climate (School and Family) and Performance in Mathematics of Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Amado Laura , Jarque Sonia
Published: September 2022

This study analyzes the differential efficacy of a multimodal versus pharmacological intervention in isolation to improve the social climate (school and family) and the performance in mathematics of a sample of 20 children with ADHD aged 7 to 9 years. The multimodal intervention was based on a training program for 20 parents and 20 teachers in the management of ADHD during a school year, in combination with stimulant medication. The results evidenced the superiority of the multimodal intervention compared to the isolated pharmacological intervention to improve various variables of the family climate (Cohesion; Expressiveness; Autonomy and Control), of the school climate (Help; Tasks; Competitiveness; Organization, Clarity and Control), as well as their academic performance in the curricular area of mathematics. Our findings support the need to intervene in the significant contexts in which children with ADHD develop in order to improve their quality of life.
Immunoenhancing Effects of Cyclina sinensis Pentadecapeptide through Modulation of Signaling Pathways in Mice with Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression
Authors: Zhao Rui , Jiang Xiao-Xia , Zhao Qiao-Ling , Ye Han-Wei , Lin Yi , Huang Ju , Tang Yun-Ping
Published: September 2022

Our study aimed to investigate the immune-enhancing mechanism of the pentadecapeptide (RVAPEEHPVEGRYLV) from Cyclina sinensis (SCSP) in a cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced murine model of immunosuppression. Our results showed that SCSP treatment significantly increased mouse body weight, immune organ indices, and the production of serum IL-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in CTX-treated mice. In addition, SCSP treatment enhanced the proliferation of splenic lymphocytes and peritoneal macrophages, as well as phagocytosis of the latter in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, SCSP elevated the phosphorylation levels of p38, ERK, JNK, PI3K and Akt, and up-regulated IKKα, IKKβ, p50 NF-κB and p65 NF-κB protein levels, while down-regulating IκBα protein levels. Our results indicate that SCSP has immune-enhancing activities, and that it can activate the MAPK/NF-κB and PI3K/Akt pathways to enhance immunity in CTX-induced immunosuppressed mice.
3-Bromo-4,5-dihydroxybenzaldehyde Isolated from Polysiphonia morrowii Suppresses TNF-α/IFN-γ-Stimulated Inflammation and Deterioration of Skin Barrier in HaCaT Keratinocytes
Authors: Jayasinghe Arachchige Maheshika Kumari , Han Eui-Jeong , Kirindage Kirinde Gedara Isuru Sandanuwan , Fernando Ilekuttige Priyan Shanura , Kim Eun-A , Kim Junseong , Jung Kyungsook , Kim Kil-Nam , Heo Soo-Jin , Ahn Ginnae
Published: September 2022

Polysiphonia morrowii is a well-known red alga that has promising pharmacological characteristics. The current study evaluates the protective effect of 3-bromo-4,5-dihydroxybenzaldehyde (BDB) isolated from P. morrowii on tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α/interferon (IFN)-γ-stimulated inflammation and skin barrier deterioration in HaCaT keratinocytes. The anti-inflammatory effect of BDB in TNF-α/IFN-γ-stimulated HaCaT keratinocytes is evaluated by investigating nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, inflammatory cytokines, and chemokines. Further, the interaction between BDB and the skin barrier functions in stimulated HaCaT keratinocytes is investigated. The findings of the study reveal that BDB dose-dependently increases cell viability while decreasing intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. BDB downregulates the expression of inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-6, -8, -13, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and chemokines, Eotaxin, macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC), regulated on activation, normal T cells expressed and secreted (RANTES), and thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) by modulating the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways in TNF-α/IFN-γ-stimulated HaCaT keratinocytes. Furthermore, BDB increases the production of skin hydration proteins and tight junction proteins in stimulated HaCaT keratinocytes by preserving skin moisturization and tight junction stability. These findings imply that BDB exhibits a protective ability against inflammation and deterioration of skin barrier via suppressing the expression of inflammatory signaling in TNF-α/IFN-γ-stimulated HaCaT keratinocytes.
Effects of Probiotic Supplementation on Immune and Inflammatory Markers in Athletes: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Guo Yi-Ting , Peng Yu-Ching , Yen Hsin-Yen , Wu Jeng-Cheng , Hou Wen-Hsuan
Published: September 2022

Background and Objectives: Probiotic supplementation can prevent and alleviate gastrointestinal and respiratory tract infections in healthy individuals. Markers released from the site of inflammation are involved in the response to infection or tissue injury. Therefore, we measured the pre-exercise and postexercise levels of inflammation-related markers—tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, interferon (IFN)-γ, salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA), IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, and C-reactive protein (CRP)—in probiotic versus placebo groups to investigate the effects of probiotics on these markers in athletes. Probiotics contained multiple species (e.g., Bacillus subtilis, Bifidobacterium bifidum, etc.). Materials and Methods: We performed a systematic search for studies published until May 2022 and included nine randomized clinical trials. Reporting followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guideline. Fixed-effects meta-analyses and sensitivity analyses were performed. Subgroup analyses were conducted on the basis of the period of probiotic intervention and timing of postassessment blood sampling. Results: The levels of IFN-γ and salivary IgA exhibited a significant positive change, whereas those of TNF-α and IL-10 demonstrated a negative change in the probiotic group. The subgroup analysis revealed that the probiotic group exhibited significant negative changes in TNF-α and IL-10 levels in the shorter intervention period. For the subgroup based on the timing of postassessment blood sampling, the subgroup whose blood sample collection was delayed to at least the next day of exercise exhibited significant negative changes in their TNF-α and IL-10 levels. The subgroups whose blood samples were collected immediately after exercise demonstrated negative changes in their TNF-α, IL-8, and IL-10 levels. Conclusions: Probiotic supplementation resulted in significant positive changes in the IFN-γ and salivary IgA levels and negative changes in the IL-10 and TNF-α levels. No significant changes in the IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, or CRP levels were observed after probiotic use in athletes.
Association of Vertebral Artery Hypoplasia and Vertebrobasilar Cerebrovascular Accident
Authors: Vilimas Augenijus , Gaigalaitė Virginija , Urbonas Mykolas , Jatužis Dalius
Published: September 2022

Background and Objectives: Vertebral artery hypoplasia (VAH) is a controversial risk factor for cerebral infarction. The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of vertebral artery hypoplasia and to evaluate its association with vertebrobasilar cerebrovascular accidents. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the Neurology Departments of the Republican Vilnius University Hospital from 2015 to 2020. Data of 742 subjects (133 patients with posterior circulation infarction or vertebral artery syndrome (PCI/VAS), 80 patients with anterior circulation infarction (ACI) and 529 control subjects with no symptoms of cerebrovascular accident) were analyzed. Ultrasound examination of the extracranial internal carotid and vertebral arteries (VA) was performed, risk factors were recorded. Results: The mean age of the subjects was 64.51 ± 13.02 years. In subjects with PCI/VAS the diameter of VA was smaller, and the prevalence of VAH was higher compared to those in subjects with ACI and in the control group. A higher degree of VAH in subjects younger than 65 years of age increased the risk of PCI/VAS. Subjects with non-dominant VA diameter of 2.7–2.9 mm had 2.21 times higher risk of PCI/VAS, subjects with non-dominant VA diameter of 2.5–2.6 mm had 2.36 times higher risk of PCI/VAS, and subjects with non-dominant VA diameter of 2.2–2.4 mm had 4.12 times higher risk of PCI/VAS compared with subjects with non-dominant VA diameter of ≥3 mm. Among patients with PCI/VAS those with VAH had lower rates of ischemic heart disease compared with patients with normal VA diameter. There was no difference in the rates of other risk factors between PCI/VAS patients with and without VAH. Conclusions: Vertebral artery hypoplasia is not a rare finding in individuals without symptoms of cerebrovascular accident, but more frequent in patients with vertebrobasilar cerebral infarction or vertebrobasilar artery syndrome. Vertebral artery hypoplasia can be considered a risk factor for posterior circulation infarction in subjects under 65 years of age.
Medication-Wide Association Study Plus (MWAS+): A Proof of Concept Study on Drug Repurposing
Authors: Cheng Yan , Zamrini Edward , Ahmed Ali , Wu Wen-Chih , Shao Yijun , Zeng-Treitler Qing
Published: September 2022

The high cost and time for developing a new drug or repositioning a partially-developed drug has fueled interest in “repurposing” drugs. Drug repurposing is particularly of interest for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or AD-related dementias (ADRD) because there are no unrestricted disease-modifying treatments for ADRD. We have designed and pilot tested a 3-Step Medication-Wide Association Study Plus (MWAS+) approach to rigorously accelerate the identification of drugs with a high potential to be repurposed for delaying and preventing AD/ADRD: Step 1 is a hypothesis-free exploration; Step 2 is mechanistic filtering; And Step 3 is hypothesis testing using observational data and prospective cohort design. Our results demonstrated the feasibility of the MWAS+ approach. The Step 1 analysis identified potential candidate drugs including atorvastatin and GLP1. The literature search in Step 2 found evidence supporting the mechanistic plausibility of the statin-ADRD association. Finally, Step 3 confirmed our hypothesis that statin may lower the risk of incident ADRD, which was statistically significant using a target trial design that emulated randomized controlled trials.
The Multifunctional Role of Poloxamer P338 as a Biofilm Disrupter and Antibiotic Enhancer: A Small Step forward against the Big Trouble of Catheter-Associated Escherichia coli Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Henrici De Angelis Lucia , Stirpe Mariarita , Tomolillo Dario , Donelli Gianfranco , Francolini Iolanda , Vuotto Claudia
Published: September 2022

Poloxamer 338 (P338), a nonionic surfactant amphiphilic copolymer, is herein proposed as an anti-biofilm compound for the management of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). P338’s ability to disrupt Escherichia coli biofilms on silicone urinary catheters and to serve as antibiotic enhancer was evaluated for biofilm-producing E. coli Ec5FSL and Ec9FSL clinical strains, isolated from urinary catheters. In static conditions, quantitative biofilm formation assay allowed us to determine the active P338 concentration. In dynamic conditions, the BioFlux system, combined with confocal laser scanning microscopy, allowed us to investigate the P338 solution’s ability to detach biofilm, alone or in combination with sub-MIC concentrations of cefoxitin (FOX). The 0.5% P338 solution was able to destroy the structure of E. coli biofilms, to reduce the volume and area fraction covered by adherent cells (41.42 ± 4.79% and 56.20 ± 9.22% reduction for the Ec5FSL and Ec9FSL biofilms, respectively), and to potentiate the activity of 1\2 MIC FOX in disaggregating biofilms (19.41 ± 7.41% and 34.66 ± 3.75% reduction in the area fraction covered by biofilm for Ec5FSL and Ec9FSL, respectively) and killing cells (36.85 ± 7.13% and 32.33 ± 4.65% increase in the biofilm area covered by dead Ec5FSL and Ec9FSL cells, respectively).
Bacteria as Biological Control Agents of Plant Diseases
Authors: Bonaterra Anna , Badosa Esther , Daranas Núria , Francés Jesús , Roselló Gemma , Montesinos Emilio
Published: September 2022

Biological control is an effective and sustainable alternative or complement to conventional pesticides for fungal and bacterial plant disease management. Some of the most intensively studied biological control agents are bacteria that can use multiple mechanisms implicated in the limitation of plant disease development, and several bacterial-based products have been already registered and marketed as biopesticides. However, efforts are still required to increase the commercially available microbial biopesticides. The inconsistency in the performance of bacterial biocontrol agents in the biological control has limited their extensive use in commercial agriculture. Pathosystem factors and environmental conditions have been shown to be key factors involved in the final levels of disease control achieved by bacteria. Several biotic and abiotic factors can influence the performance of the biocontrol agents, affecting their mechanisms of action or the multitrophic interaction between the plant, the pathogen, and the bacteria. This review shows some relevant examples of known bacterial biocontrol agents, with especial emphasis on research carried out by Spanish groups. In addition, the importance of the screening process and of the key steps in the development of bacterial biocontrol agents is highlighted. Besides, some improvement approaches and future trends are considered.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Probiotics on COVID-19 Infection by Targeting the Gut–Lung Axis Microbial Cross-Talk
Authors: Synodinou Kalliopi D. , Nikolaki Maroulla D. , Triantafyllou Konstantinos , Kasti Arezina N.
Published: September 2022

The ecosystem of the human gastrointestinal tract, named gut microbiota, represents the most thoroughly mapped ecosystem. Perturbations on bacterial populations cause dysbiosis, a condition correlated to a wide range of autoimmune, neurological, metabolic, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases. The lungs have their flora, which are directly related to the gut flora via bidirectional communication allowing the transport of microbial metabolites and toxins produced by intestinal bacteria through the circulation and lymphatic system. This mutual microbial cross-talk communication called the gut–lung axis modulates the immune and inflammatory response to infections. COVID-19 causes dysbiosis, altered intestinal permeability, and bacterial translocation. Dysbiosis, through the gut–lung axis, promotes hyper-inflammation, exacerbates lung damage, and worsens clinical outcomes. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that probiotics can regulate cytokine secretion, thus affecting both nonspecific and specific immunity. Probiotics act by blocking the virus from invading and proliferating in host cells, by stimulating the immune response, and by suppressing the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Herein, we reviewed the evidence from preclinical and clinical studies evaluating the effect of probiotics administration on the immune response to COVID-19 infection by targeting the gut–lung axis microbial cross-talk.
Investigating the Ability of Growth Models to Predict In Situ Vibrio spp. Abundances
Authors: Purgar Marija , Kapetanović Damir , Geček Sunčana , Marn Nina , Haberle Ines , Hackenberger Branimir K. , Gavrilović Ana , Pečar Ilić Jadranka , Hackenberger Domagoj K. , Djerdj Tamara , Ćaleta Bruno , Klanjscek Tin
Published: September 2022

Vibrio spp. have an important role in biogeochemical cycles; some species are disease agents for aquatic animals and/or humans. Predicting population dynamics of Vibrio spp. in natural environments is crucial to predicting how the future conditions will affect the dynamics of these bacteria. The majority of existing Vibrio spp. population growth models were developed in controlled environments, and their applicability to natural environments is unknown. We collected all available functional models from the literature, and distilled them into 28 variants using unified nomenclature. Next, we assessed their ability to predict Vibrio spp. abundance using two new and five already published longitudinal datasets on Vibrio abundance in four different habitat types. Results demonstrate that, while the models were able to predict Vibrio spp. abundance to an extent, the predictions were not reliable. Models often underperformed, especially in environments under significant anthropogenic influence such as aquaculture and urban coastal habitats. We discuss implications and limitations of our analysis, and suggest research priorities; in particular, we advocate for measuring and modeling organic matter.
The Emergence of Edible and Food-Application Coatings for Food Packaging: A Review
Authors: Iversen Luk Jun Lam , Rovina Kobun , Vonnie Joseph Merillyn , Matanjun Patricia , Erna Kana Husna , ‘Aqilah Nasir Md Nur , Felicia Wen Xia Ling , Funk Andree Alexander
Published: September 2022

Food packaging was not as important in the past as it is now, because the world has more people but fewer food resources. Food packaging will become more prevalent and go from being a nice-to-have to an essential feature of modern life. Food packaging has grown to be an important industry sector in today’s world of more people and more food. Food packaging innovation faces significant challenges in extending perishable food products’ shelf life and contributing to meeting daily nutrient requirements as people nowadays are searching for foods that offer additional health advantages. Modern food preservation techniques have two objectives: process viability and safe, environmentally friendly end products. Long-term storage techniques can include the use of edible coatings and films. This article gives a succinct overview of the supplies and procedures used to coat food products with conventional packaging films and coatings. The key findings summarizing the biodegradable packaging materials are emphasized for their ability to prolong the freshness and flavor of a wide range of food items; films and edible coatings are highlighted as viable alternatives to traditional packaging methods. We discuss the safety concerns and opportunities presented by applying edible films and coatings, allowing it to be used as quality indicators for time-sensitive foods.
Tuning of Magnetic Hyperthermia Response in the Systems Containing Magnetosomes
Authors: Molcan Matus , Skumiel Andrzej , Timko Milan , Safarik Ivo , Zolochevska Kristina , Kopcansky Peter
Published: September 2022

A number of materials are studied in the field of magnetic hyperthermia. In general, the most promising ones appear to be iron oxide particle nanosystems. This is also indicated in some clinical trial studies where iron-based oxides were used. On the other hand, the type of material itself provides a number of variations on how to tune hyperthermia indicators. In this paper, magnetite nanoparticles in various forms were analyzed. The nanoparticles differed in the core size as well as in the form of their arrangement. The arrangement was determined by the nature of the surfactant. The individual particles were covered chemically by dextran; in the case of chain-like particles, they were encapsulated naturally in a lipid bilayer. It was shown that in the case of chain-like nanoparticles, except for relaxation, a contribution from magnetic hysteresis to the heating process also appears. The influence of the chosen methodology of magnetic field generation was also analyzed. In addition, the influence of the chosen methodology of magnetic field generation was analyzed. The application of a rotating magnetic field was shown to be more efficient in generating heat than the application of an alternating magnetic field. However, the degree of efficiency depended on the arrangement of the magnetite nanoparticles. The difference in the efficiency of the rotating magnetic field versus the alternating magnetic field was much more pronounced for individual nanoparticles (in the form of a magnetic fluid) than for systems containing chain nanoparticles (magnetosomes and a mix of magnetic fluid with magnetosomes in a ratio 1:1).
CO2 Capture from High-Humidity Flue Gas Using a Stable Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Wang Qi , Chen Yang , Liu Puxu , Wang Yi , Yang Jiangfeng , Li Jinping , Li Libo
Published: September 2022

The flue gas from fossil fuel power plants is a long-term stable and concentrated emission source of CO2, and it is imperative to reduce its emission. Adsorbents have played a pivotal role in reducing CO2 emissions in recent years, but the presence of water vapor in flue gas poses a challenge to the stability of adsorbents. In this study, ZIF-94, one of the ZIF adsorbents, showed good CO2 uptake (53.30 cm3/g), and the calculated CO2/N2 (15:85, v/v) selectivity was 54.12 at 298 K. Because of its excellent structural and performance stability under humid conditions, the CO2/N2 mixture was still well-separated on ZIF-94 with a separation time of 30.4 min when the relative humidity was as high as 99.2%, which was similar to the separation time of the dry gas experiments (33.2 min). These results pointed to the enormous potential applications of ZIF-94 for CO2/N2 separation under high humidity conditions in industrial settings.
Developing a QSPR Model of Organic Carbon Normalized Sorption Coefficients of Perfluorinated and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
Authors: Jiang Lan , Xu Yue , Zhang Xiaoyu , Xu Bingfeng , Xu Ximeng , Ma Yixing
Published: September 2022

Perfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are known for their long-distance migration, bioaccumulation, and toxicity. The transport of PFASs in the environment has been a source of increasing concerned. The organic carbon normalized sorption coefficient (Koc) is an important parameter from which to understand the distribution behavior of organic matter between solid and liquid phases. Currently, the theoretical prediction research on log Koc of PFASs is extremely limited. The existing models have limitations such as restricted application fields and unsatisfactory prediction results for some substances. In this study, a quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR) model was established to predict the log Koc of PFASs, and the potential mechanism affecting the distribution of PFASs between two phases from the perspective of molecular structure was analyzed. The developed model had sufficient goodness of fit and robustness, satisfying the model application requirements. The molecular weight (MW) related to the hydrophobicity of the compound; lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy (ELUMO) and maximum average local ionization energy on the molecular surface (ALIEmax), both related to electrostatic properties; and the dipole moment (μ), related to the polarity of the compound; are the key structural variables that affect the distribution behavior of PFASs. This study carried out a standardized modeling process, and the model dataset covered a comprehensive variety of PFASs. The model can be used to predict the log Koc of conventional and emerging PFASs effectively, filling the data gap of the log Koc of uncommon PFASs. The explanation of the mechanism of the model has proven to be of great value for understanding the distribution behavior and migration trends of PFASs between sediment/soil and water, and for estimating the potential environmental risks generated by PFASs.
Cascade Processes with Micellar Reaction Media: Recent Advances and Future Directions
Authors: Tang Christina , McInnes Bridget T.
Published: September 2022

Reducing the use of solvents is an important aim of green chemistry. Using micelles self-assembled from amphiphilic molecules dispersed in water (considered a green solvent) has facilitated reactions of organic compounds. When performing reactions in micelles, the hydrophobic effect can considerably accelerate apparent reaction rates, as well as enhance selectivity. Here, we review micellar reaction media and their potential role in sustainable chemical production. The focus of this review is applications of engineered amphiphilic systems for reactions (surface-active ionic liquids, designer surfactants, and block copolymers) as reaction media. Micelles are a versatile platform for performing a large array of organic chemistries using water as the bulk solvent. Building on this foundation, synthetic sequences combining several reaction steps in one pot have been developed. Telescoping multiple reactions can reduce solvent waste by limiting the volume of solvents, as well as eliminating purification processes. Thus, in particular, we review recent advances in “one-pot” multistep reactions achieved using micellar reaction media with potential applications in medicinal chemistry and agrochemistry. Photocatalyzed reactions in micellar reaction media are also discussed. In addition to the use of micelles, we emphasize the process (steps to isolate the product and reuse the catalyst).
Development, Validation, and Use of 1H-NMR Spectroscopy for Evaluating the Quality of Acerola-Based Food Supplements and Quantifying Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Bourafai-Aziez Asma , Jacob Daniel , Charpentier Gwladys , Cassin Emmanuel , Rousselot Guillaume , Moing Annick , Deborde Catherine
Published: September 2022

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata D.C.) is an exotic fruit with high agro-industrial potential due to its high content of ascorbic acid (AA), phenolic compounds, and carotenoid pigments. Acerola fruit is processed into concentrated juice or powder to be incorporated into food supplements. The ascorbic acid content of concentrated juice or powders must be controlled and well assessed. Therefore, the development of optimal methods and procedures for the rapid and accurate determination of the ascorbic acid content in juice concentrate and juice powder remains of considerable commercial interest. NMR spectroscopy is currently a powerful spectroscopic tool for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of molecules of all types and sizes. Firstly, this article presents the NMR-based metabolomic profiling of acerola juice and concentrate powder to describe and compare their composition. Thirty-six metabolites were identified. The AA over choline ratio and the NMR metabolomic profiles could be used for authentication in the future. Secondly, a rapid (8 min), reliable, and non-destructive method for the quantification of ascorbic acid by 1D 1H-NMR spectroscopy was developed and validated. The LOD and LOQ were 0.05 and 0.15 mg/mL, respectively. These two approaches could be combined to better characterize ingredients derived from acerola and incorporated into food supplements.
Apoptotic and Cell Cycle Effects of Triterpenes Isolated from Phoradendron wattii on Leukemia Cell Lines
Authors: Valencia-Chan Lía S. , Moreno-Lorenzana Dafné , Ceballos-Cruz Jimmy Josué , Peraza-Sánchez Sergio R. , Chávez-González Antonieta , Moo-Puc Rosa E.
Published: September 2022

Current antineoplastic agents present multiple disadvantages, driving an ongoing search for new and better compounds. Four lupane-type triterpenes, 3α,24-dihydroxylup-20(29)-en-28-oic acid (1), 3α,23-dihydroxy-30-oxo-lup-20(29)-en-28-oic acid (2), 3α,23-O-isopropylidenyl-3α,23-dihydroxylup-20(29)-en-28-oic acid (3), and 3α,23-dihydroxylup-20(29)-en-28-oic acid (4), previously isolated from Phoradendron wattii, were evaluated on two cell lines of chronic (K562) and acute (HL60) myeloid leukemia. Compounds 1, 2, and 4 decreased cell viability and inhibit proliferation, mainly in K562, and exhibited an apoptotic effect from 24 h of treatment. Of particular interest is compound 2, which caused arrest in active phases (G2/M) of the cell cycle, as shown by in silico study of the CDK1/Cyclin B/Csk2 complex by molecular docking. This compound [3α,23-dihydroxy-30-oxo-lup-20(29)-en-28-oic acid] s a promising candidate for incorporation into cancer treatments and deserves further study.
New Halogenated Compounds from Halimeda macroloba Seaweed with Potential Inhibitory Activity against Malaria
Authors: Elmaidomy Abeer H. , Zahran Eman Maher , Soltane Raya , Alasiri Ahlam , Saber Hani , Ngwa Che Julius , Pradel Gabriele , Alsenani Faisal , Sayed Ahmed M. , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan
Published: September 2022

Malaria is one of the most important infectious diseases worldwide. The causative of the most severe forms of malaria, Plasmodium falciparum, has developed resistances against all the available antimalarial drugs. In the present study, the phytochemical investigation of the green seaweed Halimeda macroloba has afforded two new compounds 1–2, along with 4 known ones 3–6. The structures of the compounds had been confirmed using 1& 2D-NMR and HRESIMS analyses. Extensive machine-learning-supported virtual-screening suggested cytochrome-C enzyme as a potential target for compound 2. Docking, absolute-binding-free-energy (ΔGbinding) and molecular-dynamics-simulation (MDS) of compound 2 revealed the strong binding interaction of this compound with cytochrome-C. In vitro testing for crude extract and isolated compounds revealed the potential in vitro inhibitory activity of both extract and compound 2 against P. falciparum. The crude extract was able to inhibit the parasite growth with an IC50 value of 1.8 ± 0.35 µg/mL. Compound 2 also showed good inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 3.2 ± 0.23 µg/mL. Meanwhile, compound 6 showed moderate inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 19.3 ± 0.51 µg/mL. Accordingly, the scaffold of compound 2 can be considered as a good lead compound for the future development of new antimalarial agents.
Effects of Lycium barbarum L. Polysaccharides on Vascular Retinopathy: An Insight Review
Authors: Yang Chunhong , Zhao Qi , Li Shiling , Pu Lili , Yu Liqiong , Liu Yaqin , Lai Xianrong
Published: September 2022

Vascular retinopathy is a pathological change in the retina caused by ocular or systemic vascular diseases that can lead to blurred vision and the risk of blindness. Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) are extracted from the fruit of traditional Chinese medicine, L. barbarum. They have strong biological activities, including immune regulation, antioxidation, and neuroprotection, and have been shown to improve vision in numerous studies. At present, there is no systematic literature review of LBPs on vascular retinal prevention and treatment. We review the structural characterization and extraction methods of LBPs, focus on the mechanism and pharmacokinetics of LBPs in improving vascular retinopathy, and discuss the future clinical application and lack of work. LBPs are involved in the regulation of VEGF, Rho/ROCK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Nrf2/HO-1, AGEs/RAGE signaling pathways, which can alleviate the occurrence and development of vascular retinal diseases in an inflammatory response, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and neuroprotection. LBPs are mainly absorbed by the small intestine and stomach and excreted through urine and feces. Their low bioavailability in vivo has led to the development of novel dosage forms, including multicompartment delivery systems and scaffolds. Data from the literature confirm the medicinal potential of LBPs as a new direction for the prevention and complementary treatment of vascular retinopathy.