bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and Characterization of an Optimized Low-Loss Two-Mode Fiber for Optoacoustic Sensing
Authors: Zhang Zelin , You Guanglei , Qin Yu , Peng Jianqin , Xie Shuhong , Jiang Xinli , Wang Caoyuan , Yu Ruowei , Shen Yichun , Xiao Limin
Published: October 2022

An optimized multi-step index (MSI) 2-LP-mode fiber is proposed and fabricated with low propagation loss of 0.179 dB/km, low intermodal crosstalk and excellent bend resistance. We experimentally clarified the characteristics of backward Brillouin scattering (BBS) and forward Brillouin scattering (FBS) induced by radial acoustic modes (R0,m) in the fabricated MSI 2-LP-mode fiber, respectively. Via the use of this two-mode fiber, we demonstrated a novel discriminative measurement method of temperature and acoustic impedance based on BBS and FBS, achieving improved experimental measurement uncertainties of 0.2 °C and 0.019 kg/(s·mm2) for optoacoustic chemical sensing. The low propagation loss of the sensing fiber and the new measurement method based on both BBS and FBS may pave the way for long-distance and high spatial resolution distributed fiber sensors.
A Hydrogel-Based Self-Sensing Underwater Actuator
Authors: Wang Shuyu , Sun Zhaojia , Duan Shuaiyang , Zhao Yuliang , Sha Xiaopeng , Yu Shifeng , Zuo Lei
Published: October 2022

Soft robots made of hydrogels are suited for underwater exploration due to their biocompatibility and compliancy. Yet, reaching high dexterity and actuation force for hydrogel-based actuators is challenging. Meanwhile, real-time proprioception is critical for feedback control. Moreover, sensor integration to mimic living organisms remains problematic. To address these challenges, we introduce a hydrogel actuator driven by hydraulic force with a fast response (time constant 0.83 s). The highly stretchable and conductive hydrogel (1400% strain) is molded into the PneuNet shape, and two of them are further assembled symmetrically to actuate bi-directionally. Then, we demonstrate its bionic application for underwater swimming, showing 2 cm/s (0.19 BL/s) speed. Inspired by biological neuromuscular systems’ sensory motion, which unifies the sensing and actuation in a single unit, we explore the hydrogel actuator’s self-sensing capacity utilizing strain-induced resistance change. The results show that the soft actuator’s proprioception can monitor the undulation in real-time with a sensitivity of 0.2%/degree. Furthermore, we take a finite-element method and first-order differential equations to model the actuator’s bending in response to pressure. We show that such a model can precisely predict the robot’s bending response over a range of pressures. With the self-sensing actuator and the proposed model, we expect the new approach can lead to future soft robots for underwater exploration with feedback control, and the underlying mechanism of the undulation control might offer significant insights for biomimetic research.
Effect of Tool Coatings on Machining Properties of Compacted Graphite Iron
Authors: Ai Xiaonan , Tan Jun , Sun Hui , Lu Lu , Yang Zhenming , Yu Zhongguang , Liao Guojun , Li Shiyong , Jin Yilin , Niu Yusheng , He Ning , Hao Xiuqing
Published: October 2022

Compacted graphite iron (CGI) has become the most ideal material for automotive engine manufacturing owing to its excellent mechanical properties. However, tools are severely worn during processing, considerably shortening their lifespan. In this study, we prepared a series of cemented carbide-coated tools and evaluated their coating properties in cutting tests. Among all tested coatings, PVD coating made of AlCrN (AC) presented with the best surface integrity and mechanical properties, achieving the best comprehensive performance in the coating test. The AC-coated tool also exhibited the best cutting performance at a low speed of 120 m/min, corresponding to a 60% longer cutting life and the lowest workpiece surface roughness relative to other coated tools. In the cutting test at a high speed of 350 m/min, the CVD double-layer coated tool (MT) with a TiCN inner layer of and an Al2O3 outer layer had a 70% longer cutting life and the lowest workpiece surface roughness relative to other coated tools.
Performance of Urine Reagent Strips in Detecting the Presence and Estimating the Prevalence and Intensity of Schistosoma haematobium Infection
Authors: Degarege Abraham , Animut Abebe , Negash Yohannes , Erko Berhanu
Published: October 2022

The performance of the urine reagent strips (URS) in detecting the presence and estimating the intensity of Schistosoma haematobium infection was evaluated using urine filtration microscopy as a reference standard. Urine samples collected from 1288 school-age children living in five villages of the Afar and one village in the Gambella Regional States of Ethiopia between October 2021 and April 2022 were examined using urine filtration and URS. The prevalence of S. haematobium infection was 31.6% based on urine filtration and 32.1% using URS. Using results of the urine filtration as a reference, the sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive values, and accuracy of the URS in detecting S. haematobium egg-positive urine specimens were 73.7%, 87.8%, 87.1%, and 82.8%, respectively. Sensitivity increased significantly with an increase in the urine egg count. Specificity was greater in low prevalence settings and among children aged 5–9 years. The level of hematuria detected was trace (19.1%), weak (30.2%), moderate (36.0%), or high (14.7%). The log odds of showing higher-level hematuria significantly increased as the number of egg counts in urine increased. In conclusion, URS remains good in rapidly screening individuals for S. haematobium infection, but the sensitivity of the test could be lower, particularly when the intensity of the infection is light.
Geno- and Phenotypic Characteristics of a Klebsiella pneumoniae ST20 Isolate with Unusual Colony Morphology
Authors: Sydow Katharina , Eger Elias , Schwabe Michael , Heiden Stefan E. , Bohnert Jürgen A. , Franzenburg Sören , Jurischka Christoph , Schierack Peter , Schaufler Katharina
Published: October 2022

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a common member of the intestinal flora of vertebrates. In addition to opportunistic representatives, hypervirulent (hvKp) and antibiotic-resistant K. pneumoniae (ABR-Kp) occur. While ABR-Kp isolates often cause difficult-to-treat diseases due to limited therapeutic options, hvKp is a pathotype that can infect healthy individuals often leading to recurrent infection. Here, we investigated the clinical K. pneumoniae isolate PBIO3459 obtained from a blood sample, which showed an unusual colony morphology. By combining whole-genome and RNA sequencing with multiple in vitro and in vivo virulence-associated assays, we aimed to define the respective Klebsiella subtype and explore the unusual phenotypic appearance. We demonstrate that PBIO3459 belongs to sequence type (ST)20 and carries no acquired resistance genes, consistent with phenotypic susceptibility tests. In addition, the isolate showed low-level virulence, both at genetic and phenotypic levels. We thus suggest that PBIO3459 is an opportunistic (commensal) K. pneumoniae isolate. Genomic comparison of PBIO3459 with closely related ABR-Kp ST20 isolates revealed that they differed only in resistance genes. Finally, the unusual colony morphology was mainly associated with carbohydrate and amino acid transport and metabolism. In conclusion, our study reveals the characteristics of a Klebsiella sepsis isolate and suggests that opportunistic representatives likely acquire and accumulate antibiotic resistances that subsequently enable their emergence as ABR-Kp pathogens.
The Changes in Bacterial Microbiome Associated with Immune Disorder in Allergic Respiratory Disease
Authors: Lyu Juanjuan , Kou Fangfang , Men Xiangyu , Liu Yinhui , Tang Li , Wen Shu
Published: October 2022

Allergic respiratory disease is a worldwide and increasingly prevalent health problem. Many researchers have identified complex changes in the microbiota of the respiratory and intestinal tracts in patients with allergic respiratory diseases. These affect immune response and influence the progression of disease. However, the diversity of bacterial changes in such cases make it difficult to identify a specific microorganism to target for adjustment. Recent research evidence suggests that common bacterial variations present in allergic respiratory disease are associated with immune disorders. This finding could lead to the discovery of potential therapeutic targets in cases of allergic respiratory disease. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of bacteria changes in cases of allergic respiratory disease, to identify changes commonly associated with immune disorders, and thus provide a theoretical basis for targeting therapies of allergic respiratory disease through effective modulation of key bacteria.
Evaluation of Safety and Probiotic Potential of Enterococcus faecalis MG5206 and Enterococcus faecium MG5232 Isolated from Kimchi, a Korean Fermented Cabbage
Authors: Kim YongGyeong , Choi Soo-Im , Jeong Yulah , Kang Chang-Ho
Published: October 2022

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the genotypic and phenotypic toxicity of Enterococcus faecalis MG5206 and Enterococcus faecium MG5232 isolated from kimchi (fermented vegetable cabbage). In this study, the genotypic toxicity of the strains MG5206 and MG5232 was identified through whole-genome sequencing analysis, and phenotypic virulence, such as susceptibility to antibiotics, hemolytic activity, and gelatinase and hyaluronidase activities, was also evaluated. In addition, the in vivo toxicity of both strains was evaluated using an acute oral administration test in Sprague–Dawley rats. In all the tests, both the strains were determined to be safety by confirming that they did not show antibiotic resistance or virulence factors. In addition, these strains exhibited a low level of autoaggregation ability (37.2–66.3%) and hydrophobicity, as well as a high survival rate in gastrointestinal condition in vitro. Therefore, the safety and high gastrointestinal viability of E. faecalis MG5206 and E. faecium MG5232 suggests that both the strains could be utilized in food as potential probiotics in the future.
Processes Associated with Multiphase Dolomitization and Other Related Diagenetic Events in the Jurassic Samana Suk Formation, Himalayan Foreland Basin, NW Pakistan
Authors: Rahim Hamad-ur- , Qamar Shazia , Shah Mumtaz Muhammad , Corbella Mercè , Martín-Martín Juan Diego , Janjuhah Hammad Tariq , Navarro-Ciurana Dídac , Lianou Vasiliki , Kontakiotis George
Published: October 2022

Foreland fold and thrust belts always represent a complex diagenetic history of carbonate succession, particularly multiphase dolomitization, due to the multi-sourcing nature of fluids affecting syn-to post-depositional successions. The present work documents a comprehensive study on the diagenetic changes, particularly dolomitization patterns in the Jurassic carbonates (Samana Suk Fm) in the Lesser Himalayan fold and thrust belt, NW Pakistan. To better understand the processes involved, integrated field/petrographic, geochemical, isotopic, and micro-thermometric studies were carried out. Field observations indicate that dolostones appear as light grey to brown stratabound and patchy units within the formation. Petrographic analysis reveals that fabric destructive matrix dolomite (RD-I) and fabric preserving replacive dolomite (RD-II) phases are present as distinct units. In addition, saddle dolomite cement (SD) and fracture-filling calcite (CC) are also observed in association with replacive dolomite cement. Geochemical analysis (EPMA) showed that Fe, Mn, and Ba concentrations in matrix dolomite are relatively less than those of replacive/saddle dolomite and fracture-filling calcite, suggesting a hydrothermal source of replacive/saddle dolomite in reducing conditions. Furthermore, stable isotope studies of RD-I showed non-depleted δ18O values, which represent coeval seawater signatures of Jurassic carbonates. RD shows depleted δ18O values and non-depleted δ13C, respectively, indicating burial or elevated temperature of dolomitization. Fracture-filled calcite represents lighter δ18O values and δ13C, indicative of relatively high temperatures. 87Sr/86Sr ratios of all diagenetic phases range from 0.707718 to 0.710747, showing more radiogenic values indicates interaction fluids with more radiogenic sources. Fluid inclusion micro-thermometry data of saddle dolomite shows TH ranging from 102.8 to 186 °C, and salinity ranging from 11.7 to 19.4 eq. wt.% NaCl, suggesting hot saline brines are responsible for the dolomitization. Fracture-filling calcite shows TH ranging from 68.0 to 98.4 °C and salinity ranging from 6.9 to 13.1 eq. wt.%. NaCl suggests moderately hot and saline solutions are responsible for their formation. In conclusion, the above-mentioned studies indicate two distinct processes of dolomitization are involved in the formation of matrix and replacive/saddle-type dolomites. RD-I has formed in the evaporative setting, whereas RD has formed due to the interaction of hydrothermal fluids during burial. Fracture-filling calcite is produced from hot subsurface solutions during uplift related to the Himalayan orogeny.
Ultrasensitive Simultaneous Detection of Multiple Rare Modified Nucleosides as Promising Biomarkers in Low-Put Breast Cancer DNA Samples for Clinical Multi-Dimensional Diagnosis
Authors: Yu Yue , Pan Hui-Yu , Zheng Xin , Yuan Fang , Zhou Ying-Lin , Zhang Xin-Xiang
Published: October 2022

Early cancer diagnosis is essential for successful treatment and prognosis, and modified nucleosides have attracted widespread attention as a promising group of cancer biomarkers. However, analyzing these modified nucleosides with an extremely low abundance is a great challenge, especially analyzing multiple modified nucleosides with a different abundance simultaneously. In this work, an ultrasensitive quantification method based on chemical labeling, coupled with LC-MS/MS analysis, was established for the simultaneous quantification of 5hmdC, 5fdC, 5hmdU and 5fdU. Additionally, the contents of 5mdC and canonical nucleosides could be obtained at the same time. Upon derivatization, the detection sensitivities of 5hmdC, 5fdC, 5hmdU and 5fdU were dramatically enhanced by several hundred times. The established method was further applied to the simultaneous detection of nine nucleosides with different abundances in about 2 μg genomic DNA of breast tissues from 20 breast cancer patients. The DNA consumption was less than other overall reported quantification methods, thereby providing an opportunity to monitor rare, modified nucleosides in precious samples and biology processes that could not be investigated before. The contents of 5hmdC, 5hmdU and 5fdU in tumor tissues and normal tissues adjacent to the tumor were significantly changed, indicating that these three modified nucleosides may play certain roles in the formation and development of tumors and be potential cancer biomarkers. While the detection rates of 5hmdC, 5hmdU and 5fdU alone as a biomarker for breast cancer samples were 95%, 75% and 85%, respectively, by detecting these three cancer biomarkers simultaneously, two of the three were 100% consistent with the overall trend. Therefore, simultaneous detection of multiple cancer biomarkers in clinical samples greatly improved the accuracy of cancer diagnosis, indicating that our method has great application potential in clinical multidimensional diagnosis.
Cyclometallated Palladium(II) Complexes: An Approach to the First Dinuclear Bis(iminophosphorane)phosphane-[C,N,S] Metallacycle
Authors: Rúa-Sueiro Marcos , Munín-Cruz Paula , Fernández Adolfo , Ortigueira Juan M. , Pereira María Teresa , Vila José M.
Published: October 2022

Treatment of bis(iminophosphorane)phosphane ligands 2a–2e with Li2PdCl4 gave a set of novel diphosphane-derived complexes bearing two metallacycle rings, each one enclosing a P=N double bond: the unprecedented bis(iminophosphorane)phosphane-[C,N,S] palladacycles. In the case of the ligand derived from bis(diphenylphosphino)methane, 2a, both the single and the double palladacycle complexes were obtained. Reaction of 3a with bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane did not yield the expected product with the diphosphane bonded to both palladium atoms, but rather the novel coordination compound 5. The crystal structures of 3c and 5 are described.
Comparison of the Effect of Cold Plasma with Conventional Preservation Methods on Red Wine Quality Using Chemometrics Analysis
Authors: Niedźwiedź Iwona , Simeonov Vasil , Waśko Adam , Polak-Berecka Magdalena
Published: October 2022

In this study, the effect of cold plasma (CP) on the physicochemical and biological properties of red wine was investigated in comparison with the effects of the conventional preservation method and the combined method. In addition, the effect of storage time after the application of each of the analyzed methods was evaluated. The study examined the effects of the different preservation methods on the pH, color, phenolic content, antioxidant activity and microbiological purity of the red wine. Chemometric analysis was used to discover the relationship between the preservation method used and wine quality. In the wine samples tested, a reduction in phenolic compounds and a decrease in antioxidant activity were noted after storage. This effect was mildest for preservation methods with the addition of potassium metabisulphite and those in which a mixture of helium and nitrogen was used as the working gas. On a positive note, the CP treatment did not affect the color of the wine in a way perceptible to the consumer: ∆E*—1.12 (He/N2; 5 min). In addition, the lowest growth of microorganisms was detected in the CP-treated samples. This indicates the potential of cold plasma as an alternative method to the use of potassium metabisulfite in wine production, which may contribute to its wider use in the alcohol industry in the future.
Metal-Free Synthesis of Carbamoylated Chroman-4-Ones via Cascade Radical Annulation of 2-(Allyloxy)arylaldehydes with Oxamic Acids
Authors: Xie Long-Yong , Peng Sha , Yang Li-Hua , Liu Xiao-Wen
Published: October 2022

An efficient and straightforward approach for the synthesis of carbamoylated chroman-4-ones has been well-developed. The reaction is triggered through the generation of carbamoyl radicals from oxamic acids under metal-free conditions, which subsequently undergoes decarboxylative radical cascade cyclization on 2-(allyloxy)arylaldehydes to afford various amide-containing chroman-4-one scaffolds with high functional group tolerance and a broad substrate scope.
Bio-Computational Evaluation of Compounds of Bacopa Monnieri as a Potential Treatment for Schizophrenia
Authors: Alharbi Ali H.
Published: October 2022

Schizophrenia is a horrible mental disorder characterized by distorted perceptions of reality. Investigations have not identified a single etiology for schizophrenia, and there are multiple hypotheses based on various aspects of the disease. There is no specific treatment for schizophrenia. Hence, we have tried to investigate the updated information stored in the genetic databases related to genes that could be responsible for schizophrenia and other related neuronal disorders. After implementing combined computational methodology, such as protein-protein interaction analysis led by system biology approach, in silico docking analysis was performed to explore the 3D binding pattern of Bacopa monnieri natural compounds while interacting with STXBP1. The best-identified compound was CID:5319292 based on −10.3 kcal/mol binding energy. Further, selected complexes were dynamically evaluated by MDS methods, and the output reveals that the STXBP1-CID:5281800 complex showed the lowest RMSD value, i.e., between 0.3 and 0.4 nm. Hence, identified compounds could be used to develop and treat neuronal disorders after in vivo/in vitro testing.
Cinnamomum verum J. Presl Bark Contains High Contents of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide
Authors: Yan Jing , Sakamoto Takumi , Islam Ariful , Ping Yashuang , Oyama Soho , Fuchino Hiroyuki , Kawakami Hitomi , Yoshimatsu Kayo , Kahyo Tomoaki , Setou Mitsutoshi
Published: October 2022

The global population is aging, and intervention strategies for anti-aging and the prevention of aging-related diseases have become a topic actively explored today. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an important molecule in the metabolic process, and its content in tissues and cells decreases with age. The supplementation of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), an important intermediate and precursor of NAD+, has increased NAD+ levels, and its safety has been demonstrated in rodents and human studies. However, the high content of NMN in natural plants has not been fully explored as herbal medicines for drug development. Here, we identified that the leaf of Cinnamomum verum J. Presl (C. verum) was the highest NMN content among the Plant Extract Library (PEL) with food experience, using ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). To validate this result, the extraction and quantitative analysis of bark, leaf, root, and stem of fresh C. verum was conducted. The results revealed that the bark had the highest NMN content in C. verum (0.471 mg/100 g). Our study shed light on the prospects of developing natural plants in the context of NMN as drugs for anti-aging and prevention of aging-related diseases. The future should focus on the development and application of C. verum pharmaceutical formulations.
Benzophenone Rhamnosides and Chromones from Hypericum seniawinii Maxim.
Authors: Xia Jing , Hu Bo , Qian Mengyu , Zhang Jiayue , Wu Lin
Published: October 2022

Two new benzophenone glycosides, hypersens A and B, along with four known compounds, (S)-(+)-5,7-dihydroxy-2-(1-methylpropyl) chromone (3), 5,7-dihydroxy-2-isopropylchromone (4), urachromone B (5), and 3-8′′ bisapigenin (6), were isolated from Hypericum seniawinii. The structures of new compounds (1 and 2) were elucidated according to comprehensive spectroscopic data analyses. The absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined by electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. All isolated compounds were evaluated for their neuroprotective effect using corticosterone-induced PC12 cell injury. In addition, compounds 1–6 were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory activity in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Compound 6 was a biflavonoid and significantly inhibited the production of nitric oxide with an IC50 value of 11.48 ± 1.23 μM.
Investigation of Volatile Iridoid Terpenes in Nepeta cataria L. (Catnip) Genotypes
Authors: Patel Harna , Gomes Erik Nunes , Yuan Bo , Lyu Weiting , Wu Qingli , Simon James E.
Published: October 2022

Catnip (Nepeta cataria L.) is of scientific interest largely due to the production of nepetalactones, volatile iridoid terpenes with strong arthropod repellent activity. However, the plant can also produce other bioactive volatile iridoids, such as nepetalic acid (NA), nepetalactam (NT) and dihydronepetalactone (DHNL) that have not been studied extensively. Germplasm studies on plants that can produce such compounds are scarce. The present study evaluated the chemical diversity of catnip genotypes with a focus on NA, NT and DHNL. A total of 34 genotypes were harvested at different times over two years. The ethanolic extract of the plants was screened for iridoids by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. CR9 × CR3 genotype had the highest value for biomass yield, while cultivar CR9 had the highest value for accumulated NA. Genotype UK.2 had the highest value for accumulated NT yield and CR5 had the highest value for accumulated DHNL. Overall, patented cultivars and elite selections performed better than other less studied genotypes. Harvest time influenced the accumulation of secondary metabolites differentially for the genotypes. This is the first germplasm study with a focus on these iridoid compounds, yet more studies are necessary as genotype characterization is essential for breeding and standardization of products for industry.
New Trends in the Quality Control of Enantiomeric Drugs: Quality by Design-Compliant Development of Chiral Capillary Electrophoresis Methods
Authors: Orlandini Serena , Hancu Gabriel , Szabó Zoltán-István , Modroiu Adriana , Papp Lajos-Attila , Gotti Roberto , Furlanetto Sandra
Published: October 2022

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a potent method for analyzing chiral substances and is commonly used in the enantioseparation and chiral purity control of pharmaceuticals from different matrices. The adoption of Quality by Design (QbD) concepts in analytical method development, optimization and validation is a widespread trend observed in various analytical approaches including chiral CE. The application of Analytical QbD (AQbD) leads to the development of analytical methods based on sound science combined with risk management, and to a well understood process clarifying the influence of method parameters on the analytical output. The Design of Experiments (DoE) method employing chemometric tools is an essential part of QbD-based method development, allowing for the simultaneous evaluation of experimental parameters as well as their interaction. In 2022 the International Council for Harmonization (ICH) released two draft guidelines (ICH Q14 and ICH Q2(R2)) that are intended to encourage more robust analytical procedures. The ICH Q14 guideline intends to harmonize the scientific approaches for analytical procedures’ development, while the Q2(R2) document covers the validation principles for the use of analytical procedures including the recent applications that require multivariate statistical analyses. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the new prospects for chiral CE method development applied for the enantiomeric purity control of pharmaceuticals using AQbD principles. The review also provides an overview of recent research (2012–2022) on the applicability of CE methods in chiral drug impurity profiling.
Bimetallic Au–Ag Nanoparticles: Advanced Nanotechnology for Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Singh Chandrashekhar , Mehata Abhishesh Kumar , Priya Vishnu , Malik Ankit Kumar , Setia Aseem , Suseela M. Nikitha Lakshmi , Vikas  , Gokul Patharaj , Samridhi  , Singh Sanjeev K. , Muthu Madaswamy S.
Published: October 2022

To date, there are no antimicrobial agents available in the market that have absolute control over the growing threat of bacterial strains. The increase in the production capacity of antibiotics and the growing antibacterial resistance of bacteria have majorly affected a variety of businesses and public health. Bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) with two separate metals have been found to have stronger antibacterial potential than their monometallic versions. This enhanced antibacterial efficiency of bimetallic nanoparticles is due to the synergistic effect of their participating monometallic counterparts. To distinguish between bacteria and mammals, the existence of diverse metal transport systems and metalloproteins is necessary for the use of bimetallic Au–Ag NPs, just like any other metal NPs. Due to their very low toxicity toward human cells, these bimetallic NPs, particularly gold–silver NPs, might prove to be an effective weapon in the arsenal to beat emerging drug-resistant bacteria. The cellular mechanism of bimetallic nanoparticles for antibacterial activity consists of cell membrane degradation, disturbance in homeostasis, oxidative stress, and the production of reactive oxygen species. The synthesis of bimetallic nanoparticles can be performed by a bottom-up and top-down strategy. The bottom-up technique generally includes sol-gel, chemical vapor deposition, green synthesis, and co-precipitation methods, whereas the top-down technique includes the laser ablation method. This review highlights the key prospects of the cellular mechanism, synthesis process, and antibacterial capabilities against a wide range of bacteria. Additionally, we also discussed the role of Au–Ag NPs in the treatment of multidrug-resistant bacterial infection and wound healing.
Self-Organization of Porphyrin–POM Dyads: Nonplanar Diacids and Oxoanions in Low-Dimensional H-Bonding Networks
Authors: Kingsbury Christopher J. , Kielmann Marc , Twamley Brendan , Senge Mathias O.
Published: October 2022

Coordinating the spatial arrangement of electroactive partners is crucial to designable molecular electronics and photonics. Porphyrins are ubiquitous reaction centers in nature; synthetic porphyrins, in the crystallographic solid state, are often coerced into monolithic stacks, inhibiting reactivity. Using the principles of self-organization, and by exploiting charge-balance principles, we can manipulate nonplanar porphyrins into one- and two-dimensional hydrogen-bonded polymers, with polyoxometalate (POM) and bifunctional counter-anions serving as linkers. Herein, we report 11 crystal structures as a systematic study of the interactions between dodecasubstituted porphyrin acids and nonstandard counterions, as well as the induced conformations in the porphyrin core. We can show that this hydrogen bond chelate is a viable method of organizing electroactive centers into filaments and monolayers for surface deposition and ultrathin devices.
Waste Cooking Oil-Modified Epoxy Asphalt Rubber Binders with Improved Compatibility and Extended Allowable Construction Time
Authors: Gong Jie , Jing Fan , Zhao Ruikang , Li Chenxuan , Cai Jun , Wang Qingjun , Xie Hongfeng
Published: October 2022

The application of crumb rubber from end-of-life tires and waste cooking oil (WCO) in road pavements is of significant importance from an economic and environmental viewpoint. However, the incorporation of crumb rubber greatly shortens the allowable construction time of epoxy asphalt binders due to the high viscosity of the epoxy asphalt rubber (EAR) binder and poor compatibility between crumb rubber and asphalt binder. To lower the viscosity of asphalt rubber, extend the allowable construction time and improve the compatibility of EAR binder, waste cooking oil (WCO) was introduced. The effect of WCO on the viscosity–time behavior, thermal stability, dynamic modulus, glass transitions, crosslink density, damping ability, compatibility, mechanical properties and phase separation of WCO-modified EAR binders was investigated by using the Brookfield viscometer, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis, universal testing machine and laser confocal microscopy. The test results demonstrated that the incorporation of WCO declined the viscosity and extended the allowable construction time of the unmodified EAR binder. The inclusion of WCO improved the compatibility between asphalt and crumb rubber and the damping ability and elongation at the break of the unmodified EAR binder. The presence of WCO had a marginal effect on the thermal stability of the unmodified EAR binder. Confocal microscopy observation revealed that asphalt rubber particles aggregated in the epoxy phase of the unmodified EAR binder. With the inclusion of WCO, co-continuous asphalt rubber particles became more spherical.
Personalized Treatment for Infantile Ascending Hereditary Spastic Paralysis Based on In Silico Strategies
Authors: Rossi Sebastiano Matteo , Ermondi Giuseppe , Sato Kai , Otomo Asako , Hadano Shinji , Caron Giulia
Published: October 2022

Infantile onset hereditary spastic paralysis (IAHSP) is a rare neurological disease diagnosed in less than 50 children worldwide. It is transmitted with a recessive pattern and originates from mutations of the ALS2 gene, encoding for the protein alsin and involved in differentiation and maintenance of the upper motoneuron. The exact pathogenic mechanisms of IAHSP and other neurodevelopmental diseases are still largely unknown. However, previous studies revealed that, in the cytosolic compartment, alsin is present as an active tetramer, first assembled from dimer pairs. The C-terminal VPS9 domain is a key interaction site for alsin dimerization. Here, we present an innovative drug discovery strategy, which identified a drug candidate to potentially treat a patient harboring two ALS2 mutations: one truncation at lysine 1457 (not considered) and the substitution of arginine 1611 with a tryptophan (R1611W) in the C-terminus VPS9. With a protein modeling approach, we obtained a R1611W mutant model and characterized the impact of the mutation on the stability and flexibility of VPS9. Furthermore, we showed how arginine 1611 is essential for alsin’s homo-dimerization and how, when mutated to tryptophan, it leads to an abnormal dimerization pattern, disrupting the formation of active tetramers. Finally, we performed a virtual screening, individuating an already therapy-approved compound (MK4) able to mask the mutant residue and re-establishing the alsin tetramers in HeLa cells. MK4 has now been approved for compassionate use.
Enhanced Degradation of Antibiotic by Peroxydisulfate Catalysis with CuO@CNT: Simultaneous 1O2 Oxidation and Electron-Transfer Regime
Authors: Liu Jia , Ding Chao , Gong Sicheng , Fu Kun , Deng Huiping , Shi Jun
Published: October 2022

The nonradical process in the peroxydisulfate (PDS) oxidation system is a promising method for antibiotic removal in water. In this study, CuO@CNT was successfully synthesized by a facile approach to catalyze PDS. The removal efficiency of the antibiotic sulfamethoxazole (SMX) was 90.6% in 50 min, and the stoichiometric efficiency (ΔSMX/ΔPDS) was 0.402. The very different degradation efficiency of common organic contaminants revealed the selective oxidation of the surveyed system. The process of 1O2 oxidation and the electron-transfer regime was exhibited by chemical quenching tests, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) determination, a UV–vis spectrophotometer, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) detection, and cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. Sustainable catalysis was promoted by the circulation between the surface electron-rich centers of Cu(II) and Cu(III). Dissolved oxygen (DO) and a metastable Cu(III) intermediate contributed to the generation of 1O2. Still, a portion of SMX was removed by the mildly activated PDS. Moreover, the influence factors (pH, dosage, water matrix) were examined, and suppressions were acceptable by common anions and real water. Distinguished from the radical process, unique intermediate products were ascertained via the theoretical calculation and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) detection. Furthermore, CuO@CNT showed a satisfactory activation ability in the cycling experiments. Overall, this study developed CNT to be a supporter of CuO, unveiled the mechanism of catalysis, and evaluated the application potential of the nonradical process.
Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Activity of CoFe2O4 Nanoparticles from Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Plant Extract
Authors: Velayutham Lakshmi , Parvathiraja C. , Anitha Dhivya Christo , Mahalakshmi K. , Jenila Mary , Alasmary Fatmah Ali , Almalki Amani Salem , Iqbal Amjad , Lai Wen-Cheng
Published: October 2022

Biogenic CoFe2O4 nanoparticles were prepared by co-precipitation and Hibiscus rosa sinensis plant leaf was used as a bio-reductant of the nanoparticle productions. The biosynthesized CoFe2O4 nanoparticles were characterized by XRD, FTIR, UV, VSM, and SEM via EDX analysis. The cubic phase of biosynthesized CoFe2O4 nanoparticles and their crystallite size was determined by XRD. The Co-Fe-O bonding and cation displacement was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. The presence of spherically-shaped biosynthesized CoFe2O4 nanoparticles and their material were confirmed by SEM and TEM via EDX. The super-paramagnetic behaviour of the biosynthesized CoFe2O4 nanoparticles and magnetic pulse was established by VSM analysis. Organic and bacterial pollutants were eradicated using the biosynthesized CoFe2O4 nanoparticles. The spinel ferrite biosynthesized CoFe2O4 nanoparticles generate radical and superoxide ions, which degrade toxic organic and bacterial pollutants in the environment.
Synthesis and Optimization of Superhydrophilic-Superoleophobic Chitosan–Silica/HNT Nanocomposite Coating for Oil–Water Separation Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Wan Ikhsan Syarifah Nazirah , Yusof Norhaniza , Aziz Farhana , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Shamsuddin Norazanita , Jaafar Juhana , Salleh Wan Norharyati Wan , Goh Pei Sean , Lau Woei Jye , Misdan Nurasyikin
Published: October 2022

In this current study, facile, one-pot synthesis of functionalised nanocomposite coating with simultaneous hydrophilic and oleophobic properties was successfully achieved via the sol–gel technique. The synthesis of this nanocomposite coating aims to develop a highly efficient, simultaneously oleophobic-hydrophilic coating intended for polymer membranes to spontaneously separate oil-in-water emulsions, therefore, mitigating the fouling issue posed by an unmodified polymer membrane. The simultaneous hydrophilicity-oleophobicity of the nanocoating can be applied onto an existing membrane to improve their capability to spontaneously separate oil-in-water substances in the treatment of oily wastewater using little to no energy and being environmentally friendly. The synthesis of hybrid chitosan–silica (CTS-Si)/halloysite nanotube (HNT) nanocomposite coating using the sol–gel method was presented, and the resultant coating was characterised using FTIR, XPS, XRD, NMR, BET, Zeta Potential, and TGA. The wettability of the nanocomposite coating was evaluated in terms of water and oil contact angle, in which it was coated onto a polymer substrate. The coating was optimised in terms of oil and water contact angle using Response Surface Modification (RSM) with Central Composite Design (CCD) theory. The XPS results revealed the successful grafting of organosilanes groups of HNT onto the CTS-Si denoted by a wide band between 102.6–103.7 eV at Si2p. FTIR spectrum presented significant peaks at 3621 cm−1; 1013 cm−1 was attributed to chitosan, and 787 cm−1 signified the stretching of Si-O-Si on HNT. 29Si, 27Al, and 13H NMR spectroscopy confirmed the extensive modification of the particle’s shells with chitosan–silica hybrid covalently linked to the halloysite nanotube domains. The morphological analysis via FESEM resulted in the surface morphology that indicates improved wettability of the nanocomposite. The resultant colloids have a high colloid stability of 19.3 mV and electrophoretic mobility of 0.1904 µmcm/Vs. The coating recorded high hydrophilicity with amplified oleophobic properties depicted by a low water contact angle (WCA) of 11° and high oil contact angle (OCA) of 171.3°. The optimisation results via RSM suggested that the optimised sol pH and nanoparticle loadings were pH 7.0 and 1.05 wt%, respectively, yielding 95% desirability for high oil contact angle and low water contact angle.
Improving the Barrier Properties of Paper to Moisture, Air, and Grease with Nanocellulose-Based Coating Suspensions
Authors: Mazega André , Tarrés Quim , Aguado Roberto , Pèlach Maria Àngels , Mutjé Pere , Ferreira Paulo J. T. , Delgado-Aguilar Marc
Published: October 2022

Food packaging manufacturers often resort to lamination, typically with materials which are neither non-biodegradable nor biobased polymers, to confer barrier properties to paper and cardboard. The present work considers a greener solution: enhancing paper’s resistance to moisture, grease, and air by aqueous coating suspensions. For hydrophobization, a combined approach between nanocellulose and common esterifying agents was considered, but the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) remained excessively high for the goal of wrapping moisture-sensitive products (>600 g m−2 d−1). Nonetheless, oil-repellant surfaces were effectively obtained with nanocellulose, illite, sodium alginate, and/or poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), reaching Kit ratings up to 11. Regarding air resistance, mineral-rich coatings attained values above 1000 Gurley s. In light of these results, nanocellulose, minerals, PVA, pullulan, alginate, and a non-ionic surfactant were combined for multi-purpose coating formulations. It is hypothesized that these materials decrease porosity while complementing each other’s flaws, e.g., PVA succeeds at decreasing porosity but has low dimensional stability. As an example, a suspension mostly constituted by nanocellulose, sizing agents, minerals and PVA yielded a WVTR of roughly 100 g m−2 d−1, a Kit rating of 12, and an air resistance above 300 s/100 mL. This indicates that multi-purpose coatings can be satisfactorily incorporated into paper structures for food packaging applications, although not as the food contact layer.
Celiac Disease and Gallbladder: Pathophysiological Aspects and Clinical Issues
Authors: Poddighe Dimitri , Dossybayeva Kuanysh , Abdukhakimova Diyora , Akhmaltdinova Lyudmila , Ibrayeva Aigul
Published: October 2022

Background: Celiac Disease (CD) is an immune-mediated disorder which primarily affects the small intestine; however, extra-intestinal organs are often affected by the pathological process, too. As regards the digestive system, liver alterations in CD patients have been widely described, which can also extend to the biliary tract. Notably, gallbladder function can be altered in CD patients. In this review, we specifically analyze and summarize the main pathophysiological aspects and clinical evidence of gallbladder dysfunction in CD patients, in order to discuss the potential medical complications and clinical research gaps. In addition to some perturbations of bile composition, CD patients can develop gallbladder dysmotility, which mainly expresses with an impaired emptying during the digestive phase. The main pathophysiological determinant is a perturbation of cholecystokinin secretion by the specific duodenal enteroendocrine cells in response to the appropriate nutrient stimulation in CD patients. This situation appears to be reversible with a gluten-free diet in most cases. Despite this gallbladder impairment, CD patients do not seem to be more predisposed to gallbladder complications, such as calculous and acalculous cholecystitis. However, very few clinical studies have actively investigated these clinical aspects, which may not be completely evidenced so far; alternatively, the substantial improvements in the last two decades regarding CD diagnosis, which have reduced the diagnostic delay (and related dietary treatment), may have lessened the potential clinical consequences of CD-related gallbladder dysfunction. Specific clinical studies focused on these aspects are needed for a better understanding of the clinical implications of gallbladder alterations in CD patients.
Postprandial Glucose and Gastrointestinal Hormone Responses of Healthy Subjects to Wheat Biscuits Enriched with L-Arginine or Branched-Chain Amino Acids of Plant Origin
Authors: Yanni Amalia E. , Kokkinos Alexander , Binou Panagiota , Papaioannou Varvara , Halabalaki Maria , Konstantopoulos Panagiotis , Simati Stamatia , Karathanos Vaios T.
Published: October 2022

The study investigates the effects of wheat biscuits supplemented with plant flours originating from legumes/seeds enriched either in L-arginine (L-arg) or branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) on postprandial glucose response of healthy subjects. Gastrointestinal hormone and amino acid responses as well as subjective appetite sensations are also evaluated. Subjects consumed wheat-based biscuits, enriched either in L-arg (ArgB) or BCAAs (BCAAsB) or a conventional wheat biscuit (CB) or a glucose solution (GS) in an acute randomized crossover design. Responses of glucose, insulin, ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), peptide YY (PYY) and glicentin, as well as those of L-arginine, L-leucine, L-isoleucine and L-valine, were evaluated over 180 min. Consumption of ArgB and BCAAsB elicited lower glucose iAUC compared to GS (p < 0.05). A lower iAUC for insulin was observed after consumption of BCAAsB (p < 0.05 compared to CB and ArgB), while ArgB elicited higher iAUC for GLP-1 accompanied by higher glicentin response (p < 0.05 compared to CB). BCAAsB and ArgB increased postprandial amino acid concentrations and caused stronger satiety effects compared to CB. Increasing protein content of wheat biscuits with supplementation of plant flours originating from legumes/seeds decreases postprandial glycemia and provides with healthier snack alternatives which can easily be incorporated into diet.
Assessment of Selected Intestinal Permeability Markers in Children with Food Allergy Depending on the Type and Severity of Clinical Symptoms
Authors: Niewiem Monika , Grzybowska-Chlebowczyk Urszula
Published: October 2022

Background: Food allergy (FA) has a broad range of symptoms, and clinical manifestations may concern several reactions from one system or organ. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess intestinal permeability (IP) based on the analysis of serum zonulin and bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) levels in children with FA, taking into account the pathomechanism of immune reaction, clinical symptoms of FA and their severity. Material and methods: The study comprised 103 patients aged 7–60 months (median 34); 49 children with IgE-mediated allergy and 25 children with non-IgE-mediated allergy; the reference group comprised 29 children with functional gastrointestinal disorders. IP markers were determined using ELISA. Results: There was no correlation between the severity of clinical symptoms and the level of IP markers in children with FA. Zonulin and LPS levels were significantly higher in children with FA and gastrointestinal symptoms. Zonulin levels in the subgroup of children with non-IgE-mediated FA and gastrointestinal symptoms were significantly higher than in the subgroup of children with IgE-mediated FA and these symptoms. The level of LPS was significantly higher in the subgroup with IgE-mediated FA and atopic dermatitis. Conclusions: Zonulin and LPS levels were significantly higher in children with FA compared to children from the reference group. Zonulin levels were significantly higher in children with non-IgE-mediated FA than in children with IgE-mediated FA.
Reply to Chao et al. Comment on “Nahok et al. Monosodium Glutamate Induces Changes in Hepatic and Renal Metabolic Profiles and Gut Microbiome of Wistar Rats. Nutrients 2021, 13, 1865”
Authors: Nahok Kanokwan , Selmi Carlo , Sukmak Manatsaphon , Phetcharaburanin Jutarop , Li Jia V. , Silsirivanit Atit , Thanan Raynoo , Sharma Amod , Anutrakulchai Sirirat , Hammock Bruce D. , Cha’on Ubon
Published: October 2022

We sincerely appreciate the thorough review and insights of Dr. Huichia Chao and colleagues [...]