bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Volume Uncertainty for Resource Classification: A Case Study on the Rondon Do Pará Bauxite Deposit, Brazil
Authors: de Oliveira Saulo B. , Boisvert Jeff B. , Deutsch Clayton V.
Published: October 2022

This study illustrates the application of conditional simulations to calculate the uncertainty associated with the thickness of bauxite ores. The bauxite deposit of Rondon do Pará in northern Pará State, Brazil, is characterized by a well-defined lateritic profile, with the ore being composed of two sequential horizons: massive bauxite and ferruginous bauxite. This study used ore thickness data from 1.005 drillholes with different grid spacing. Drillhole intervals of both types of bauxite ore were accumulated, converting the database from 3D to 2D. Sequential Gaussian simulation produced probability maps calculated from certain confidence intervals, which permits obtaining the uncertainty associated with estimates in thickness. Results show that in portions with the same regular drillhole spacing there are different ranges of uncertainty and variability, which could be useful to support resource classification, associating different confidence intervals to resource classes. This analysis could also guide the drilling program for resource conversion in order to optimize costs, indicating areas where there is greater uncertainty and would need to be densified. The incorporation of this information into the resource model could be very helpful for supporting subsequent studies of economic evaluation and risk analyses with respect to this type of deposit or similarly in mineral exploration.
Cobalt Incorporated Graphitic Carbon Nitride as a Bifunctional Catalyst for Electrochemical Water-Splitting Reactions in Acidic Media
Authors: Ejeta Shibiru Yadeta , Imae Toyoko
Published: October 2022

Non-noble metal-based bifunctional electrocatalysts may be a promising new resource for electrocatalytic water-splitting devices. In this work, transition metal (cobalt)-incorporated graphitic carbon nitride was synthesized and fabricated in electrodes for use as bifunctional catalysts. The optimum catalytic activity of this bifunctional material for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), which benefitted at a cobalt content of 10.6 wt%, was promoted by the highest surface area and conductivity. The activity achieved a minimum overpotential of ~85 mV at 10 mA/cm2 and a Tafel slope of 44.2 mV/dec in an acidic electrolyte. These values of the HER were close to those of a benchmark catalyst (platinum on carbon paper electrode). Moreover, the kinetics evaluation at the optimum catalyst ensured the catalyst flows (Volmer–Heyrovsky mechanism), indicating that the adsorption step is rate-determining for the HER. The activity for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) indicated an overpotential of ~530 mV at 10 mAcm−2 and a Tafel slope of 193.3 mV/dec, which were slightly less or nearly the same as those of the benchmark catalyst. Stability tests using long-term potential cycles confirmed the high durability of the catalyst for both HER and OER. Moreover, the optimal bifunctional catalyst achieved a current density of 10 mAcm−2 at a cell voltage of 1.84 V, which was slightly less than that of the benchmark catalyst (1.98 V). Thus, this research reveals that the present bifunctional, non-noble metallic electrocatalyst is adequate for use as a water-splitting technology in acidic media.
Effects of Ozone Application on Microbiological Stability and Content of Sugars and Bioactive Compounds in the Fruit of the Saskatoon Berry (Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt.)
Authors: Gorzelany Józef , Kapusta Ireneusz , Zardzewiały Miłosz , Belcar Justyna
Published: October 2022

Saskatoon berry fruits are a valuable source of micro- and macronutrients, sugars, and compounds with health-promoting properties, the properties of which change during storage. This study presents the effects of applied gaseous ozone at 10 ppm for 15 and 30 min on microbiological stability, sugar content, and bioactive compounds for three cultivars and three clones of Saskatoon berry fruit. The ozonation process had a positive effect on reducing the microbial load of the fruit, which was observed on day 7 of storage for the two variants of ozonation time of 15 and 30 min compared to the control and also on the sugar profile of the “Thiessen” fruit, as well as clones no 5/6 and type H compared to the control sample, which was non-ozonated fruit. In the Saskatoon berry fruits analyzed, 21 polyphenolic compounds were identified, of which four belonged to the anthocyanin group whose main representative was the 3-O-glucoside cyanidin. The ascorbic acid content and antioxidant activity (determined by DPPH· and ABTS+· methods) varied according to the cultivar and clone of the Saskatoon berry fruits analyzed and the ozone exposure time.
Supramolecular Tools to Improve Wound Healing and Antioxidant Properties of Abietic Acid: Biocompatible Microemulsions and Emulgels
Authors: Mirgorodskaya Alla , Kushnazarova Rushana , Pavlov Rais , Valeeva Farida , Lenina Oksana , Bushmeleva Kseniya , Kuryashov Dmitry , Vyshtakalyuk Alexandra , Gaynanova Gulnara , Petrov Konstantin , Zakharova Lucia
Published: October 2022

Abietic acid, a naturally occurring fir resin compound, that exhibits anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, was formulated into biocompatible emulgels based on stable microemulsions with the addition of a carbamate-containing surfactant and Carbopol® 940 gel. Various microemulsion and emulgel formulations were tested for antioxidant and wound-healing properties. The chemiluminescence method has shown that all compositions containing abietic acid have a high antioxidant activity. Using Strat-M® skin-modelling membrane, it was found out that emulgels significantly prolong the release of abietic acid. On Wistar rats, it was shown that microemulsions and emulgels containing 0.5% wt. of abietic acid promote the rapid healing of an incised wound and twofold tissue reinforcement compared to the untreated group, as documented by tensiometric wound suture-rupture assay. The high healing-efficiency is associated with a combination of antibacterial activity of the formulation components and the anti-inflammatory action of abietic acid.
Applications of Single-Molecule Vibrational Spectroscopic Techniques for the Structural Investigation of Amyloid Oligomers
Authors: Vu Katrin Ha Phuong , Blankenburg Gerhard Heinrich , Lesser-Rojas Leonardo , Chou Chia-Fu
Published: October 2022

Amyloid oligomeric species, formed during misfolding processes, are believed to play a major role in neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases. Deepening the knowledge about the structure of amyloid intermediates and their aggregation pathways is essential in understanding the underlying mechanisms of misfolding and cytotoxicity. However, structural investigations are challenging due to the low abundance and heterogeneity of those metastable intermediate species. Single-molecule techniques have the potential to overcome these difficulties. This review aims to report some of the recent advances and applications of vibrational spectroscopic techniques for the structural analysis of amyloid oligomers, with special focus on single-molecule studies.
Neuroprotective Effect of Polyphenol Extracts from Terminalia chebula Retz. against Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Lin Kuan , Zhou Mei , Leng Changlong , Tao Xiaoqing , Zhou Rong , Li Youwei , Sun Binlian , Shu Xiji , Liu Wei
Published: October 2022

Current therapies for ischemic stroke are insufficient due to the lack of specific drugs. This study aimed to investigate the protective activity of polyphenol extracts from Terminalia chebula against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion induced damage. Polyphenols of ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions were extracted from T. chebula. BV2 microglial cells exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation and mice subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion were treated by TPE and TPB. Cell viability, cell morphology, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential, enzyme activity and signaling pathway related to oxidative stress were observed. We found that TPE and TPB showed strong antioxidant activity in vitro. The protective effects of TPE and TPB on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury were demonstrated by enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, elevated level of the nucleus transportation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and expressions of antioxidant proteins, with a simultaneous reduction in cell apoptosis and reactive oxygen species level. In conclusion, TPE and TPB exert neuroprotective effects by stimulating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting apoptosis.
Biodegradation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons by Drechsleraspicifera Isolated from Contaminated Soil in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Zahrani Rasha M. , Al-Otibi Fatimah , Marraiki Najat , Alharbi Raedah I. , Aldehaish Horiah A.
Published: October 2022

Currently, the bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbons employs microbial biosurfactants because of their public acceptability, biological safety, and low cost. These organisms can degrade or detoxify organic-contaminated areas, such as marine ecosystems. The current study aimed to test the oil-biodegradation ability of the fungus Drechslera spicifera, which was isolated from contaminated soil samples in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We used hydrocarbon tolerance, scanning electron microscopy, DCPIP, drop-collapse, emulsification activity, recovery of biosurfactants, and germination assays to assess the biodegradation characteristics of the D. spicifera against kerosene, crude, diesel, used, and mixed oils. The results of DCPIP show that the highest oxidation (0.736 a.u.) was induced by crude oil on the 15th day. In contrast, kerosene and used oil had the highest measurements in emulsification activity and drop-collapse assays, respectively. Meanwhile, crude and used oils produced the highest amounts of biosurfactants through acid precipitation and solvent extraction assays. Furthermore, the biosurfactants stimulated the germination of tomato seeds by more than 50% compared to the control. These findings highlight the biodegradation ability of D. spicifera, which has been proven in the use of petroleum oils as the sole source of carbon. That might encourage further research to demonstrate its application in the cleaning of large, contaminated areas.
A Cyclen-Functionalized Cobalt-Substituted Sandwich-Type Tungstoarsenate with Versatility in Removal of Methylene Blue and Anti-ROS-Sensitive Tumor Cells
Authors: Hua Jiai , Wei Xueman , Li Yifeng , Li Lingzhi , Zhang Hui , Wang Feng , Zhang Changli , Ma Xiang
Published: October 2022

Oxidative degradation by using reactive oxygen species (ROS) is an effective method to treat pollutants. The synthesis of artificial oxidase for the degradation of dyes is a hot spot in molecular science. In this study, a nanoscale sandwich-type polyoxometalate (POM) on the basis of a tetra-nuclear cobalt cluster and trivacant B-α-Keggin-type tungstoarsenate {[Co(C8H20N4)]4}{Co4(H2O)2[HAsW9O34]2}∙4H2O (abbreviated as CAW, C8H20N4 = cyclen) has been synthesized and structurally examined by infrared (IR) spectrum, ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectrum, X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS), single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SXRD), and bond valence sum (Σs) calculation. According to the structural analysis, the principal element of the CAW is derived from modifying sandwich-type polyanion {Co4(H2O)2 [HAsW9O34]2}8– with four [Co(Cyclen)]2+, in which 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane (cyclen) is firstly applied to modify POM. It is also demonstrated that CAW is capable of efficiently catalyzing the production of ROS by the synergistic effects of POM fragments and Co–cyclen complexes. Moreover, CAW can interfere with the morphology and proliferation of sensitive cells by producing ROS and exhibits ability in specifically eliminating methylene blue (MB) dyes from the solution system by both adsorption and catalytic oxidation.
Microbial Degradation, Spectral analysis and Toxicological Assessment of Malachite Green Dye by Streptomyces exfoliatus
Authors: Abu-Hussien Samah H. , Hemdan Bahaa A. , Alzahrani Othman M. , Alswat Amal S. , Alatawi Fuad A. , Alenezi Muneefah Abdullah , Darwish Doaa Bahaa Eldin , Bafhaid Hanouf S. , Mahmoud Samy F. , Ibrahim Mohamed F. M. , El-Sayed Salwa M.
Published: October 2022

Malachite green (MG) dye is a common environmental pollutant that threatens human health and the integrity of the Earth’s ecosystem. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential biodegradation of MG dye by actinomycetes species isolated from planted soil near an industrial water effluent in Cairo, Egypt. The Streptomyces isolate St 45 was selected according to its high efficiency for laccase production. It was identified as S. exfoliatus based on phenotype and 16S rRNA molecular analysis and was deposited in the NCBI GenBank with the gene accession number OL720220. Its growth kinetics were studied during an incubation time of 144 h, during which the growth rate was 0.4232 (µ/h), the duplication time (td) was 1.64 d, and multiplication rate (MR) was 0.61 h, with an MG decolorization value of 96% after 120 h of incubation at 25 °C. Eleven physical and nutritional factors (mannitol, frying oil waste, MgSO4, NH4NO3, NH4Cl, dye concentration, pH, agitation, temperature, inoculum size, and incubation time) were screened for significance in the biodegradation of MG by S. exfoliatus using PBD. Out of the eleven factors screened in PBD, five (dye concentration, frying oil waste, MgSO4, inoculum size, and pH) were shown to be significant in the decolorization process. Central composite design (CCD) was applied to optimize the biodegradation of MG. Maximum decolorization was attained using the following optimal conditions: food oil waste, 7.5 mL/L; MgSO4, 0.35 g/L; dye concentration, 0.04 g/L; pH, 4.0; and inoculum size, 12.5%. The products from the degradation of MG by S. exfoliatus were characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results revealed the presence of several compounds, including leuco-malachite green, di(tert-butyl)(2-phenylethoxy) silane, 1,3-benzenedicarboxylic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester, 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester, 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, di-n-octyl phthalate, and 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, dioctyl ester. Moreover, the phytotoxicity, microbial toxicity, and cytotoxicity tests confirmed that the byproducts of MG degradation were not toxic to plants, microbes, or human cells. The results of this work implicate S. exfoliatus as a novel strain for MG biodegradation in different environments.
The Effects of Drying Techniques on Phytochemical Contents and Biological Activities on Selected Bamboo Leaves
Authors: Benjamin Mohammad Amil Zulhilmi , Ng Shean Yeaw , Saikim Fiffy Hanisdah , Rusdi Nor Azizun
Published: October 2022

The therapeutic potential of bamboos has acquired global attention. Nonetheless, the biological activities of the plants are rarely considered due to limited available references in Sabah, Malaysia. Furthermore, the drying technique could significantly affect the retention and degradation of nutrients in bamboos. Consequently, the current study investigated five drying methods, namely, sun, shade, microwave, oven, and freeze-drying, of the leaves of six bamboo species, Bambusa multiplex, Bambusa tuldoides, Bambusa vulgaris, Dinochloa sublaevigata, Gigantochloa levis, and Schizostachyum brachycladum. The infused bamboo leaves extracts were analysed for their total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC). The antioxidant activities of the samples were determined via the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, whereas their toxicities were evaluated through the brine shrimp lethality assay (BSLA). The chemical constituents of the samples were determined using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The freeze-drying method exhibited the highest phytochemical contents and antioxidant activity yield, excluding the B. vulgaris sample, in which the microwave-dried sample recorded the most antioxidant and phytochemical levels. The TPC and TFC results were within the 2.69 ± 0.01–12.59 ± 0.09 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g and 0.77 ± 0.01–2.12 ± 0.01 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/g ranges, respectively. The DPPH and ABTS IC50 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration) were 2.92 ± 0.01–4.73 ± 0.02 and 1.89–0.01 to 3.47 ± 0.00 µg/mL, respectively, indicating high radical scavenging activities. The FRAP values differed significantly between the drying methods, within the 6.40 ± 0.12–36.65 ± 0.09 mg Trolox equivalent (TE)/g range. The phytochemical contents and antioxidant capacities exhibited a moderate correlation, revealing that the TPC and TFC were slightly responsible for the antioxidant activities. The toxicity assessment of the bamboo extracts in the current study demonstrated no toxicity against the BSLA based on the LC50 (lethal concentration 50) analysis at >1000 µg/mL. LC-MS analysis showed that alkaloid and pharmaceutical compounds influence antioxidant activities, as found in previous studies. The acquired information might aid in the development of bamboo leaves as functional food items, such as bamboo tea. They could also be investigated for their medicinal ingredients that can be used in the discovery of potential drugs.
Polymer-Supported Poly(Ethylene Glycol) as a Phase-Transfer Catalyst for Cross-Aldol Condensation of Isobutyroaldehyde and Formaldehyde
Authors: Siewniak Agnieszka , Monasterska Edyta , Pankalla Ewa , Chrobok Anna
Published: October 2022

Immobilized poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG 600-PS) was used as an effective phase-transfer catalyst for the synthesis of hydroxypivaldehyde from isobutyraldehyde (IBA) and formaldehyde in the presence of an inorganic base. Studies on the influence of the parameters on the course of the reaction in a batch reactor showed that the use of the PEG 600-PS catalyst allowed one to obtain HPA with high efficiency (IBA conversion >96%, selectivity >98%) in a relatively short time and under mild conditions (2 h, 40 °C). The developed method enables easy separation of the post-reaction mixture by simple phase separation, and the immobilized catalyst can be separated by filtration and then used five times without a loss in its activity. The high activity and stability of the catalyst was also confirmed in a test carried out in a flow reactor.
Effect of Ultrasonic Pretreatment on Flocculation Filtration of Low-Rank Coal Slurry
Authors: Yang Aosheng , Liao Yinfei , An Maoyan , Cao Yijun , Yang Zhe , Ren Hourui , Su Hailong , Zou Qiqi , Chen Luojian
Published: October 2022

The efficient filtration of low-rank coal (LRC) slurry was significantly beneficial to the production process of wet coal beneficiation. However, relatively few studies have been reported on novel pretreatment methods for the efficient filtration of LRC slurry. In this paper, the mechanism of ultrasonic pretreatment to promote flocculation and filtration of slurry was studied. The hydrophobic variation of the slurry surface was measured by contact angle and XPS. The flocculation properties of slurry were characterized using zeta potential and FBRM. The effects of filter cake porosity and ultrasonic pretreatment on slurry filtration resistance were calculated by L-F NMR and Darcy’s theory. The results showed that the ultrasonic pretreatment promoted the flocculation and filtration performance of LRC slurry, increased the filtration rate, and decreased the cake moisture content. Meanwhile, the contact angle of LRC increased significantly from 50.1° to 67.8° after ultrasonic pretreatment, and the surface tension of the filtrate decreased from 69.5 to 53.31 mN/m. Ultrasonic pretreatment reduced the absolute value of the zeta potential of coal slurry from 24.8 to 21.0 mV, and the average chord length of flocs increased from 5–10 μm to 25–30 μm, thus weakening the electrostatic repulsion between coals to promote floc formation. In addition, the pore tests and filtration theory calculations showed that the ultrasonic pretreatment significantly improved the permeability of the filter cake to water and reduced the resistance to slurry during filtration. In particular, the mesopore porosity increased by 9.18%, and the permeability increased by 2.937 × 108 m2. Therefore, this contributed to the reduction of slurry filtration resistance. This research provides an efficient method for promoting the efficient filtration of slurry.
Evaluation of Coriolis Micro Air Sampling to Detect Volatile and Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds
Authors: Courtier Audrey , Roig Benoit , Cariou Stephane , Cadiere Axelle , Bayle Sandrine
Published: October 2022

There are several analytical procedures available for the monitoring of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air, which differ mainly on sampling procedures. The Coriolis micro air sampler is a tool normally designed for biological air sampling. In this paper, the Coriolis micro bio collector is used to evaluate its ability to sample organic contaminants sampling and detecting them when combined GC-MS. We also compare the use of the Coriolis micro with a standardized sampling method, which is the use of a lung box with a Nalophan® bag. The results show that the Coriolis micro sampling method is suitable for the sampling of organic contaminants. Indeed, the Coriolis micro allows to sample and detect mainly semi-volatile molecules, while the lung box/Nalophan® bags allow to sample more volatile molecules (highly volatile and volatile). These results were confirmed in the controlled air lab with a slight difference with the field. The simultaneous use of the both techniques allow to sample and detect a larger number of molecules with specific physicochemical properties to each sampling technique. In conclusion, the Coriolis micro can sample and detect volatile organic compounds present in air. We have shown that the development of alternative sampling methods and the use of non-target analysis are essential for a more comprehensive risk assessment. Moreover, the use of the Coriolis micro allows the detection of emergent molecules around the Thau lagoon.
Application of HPLC Fingerprint Combined with Chemical Pattern Recognition and Multi-Component Determination in Quality Evaluation of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench
Authors: Lv Xuzhen , Feng Shuai , Zhang Jiacheng , Sun Sihai , Geng Yannan , Yang Min , Liu Yali , Qin Lu , Zhao Tianlun , Wang Chenxi , Liu Guangxu , Li Feng
Published: October 2022

Echinacea purpurea (EP) is a common medicinal material for extracting anti-RSV components. However, up to now, there has been no effective and simple method to comprehensively reflect the quality of EP. In our current study, the quality of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench samples from six different cultivation locations in China was evaluated by establishing a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprint, combining chemical pattern recognition and multi-component determination. In this study, the chemical fingerprints of 15 common peaks were obtained using the similarity evaluation system of the chromatographic fingerprints of traditional Chinese medicine (2012A Edition). Among the 15 components, three phenolic acids (caftaric acid, chlorogenic acid and cichoric acid) were identified and determined. The similarity of fingerprints of 16 batches of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench samples ranged from 0.905 to 0.998. The similarity between fingerprints of five batches of commercially available Echinacea pupurea (L.) Moench and the standard fingerprint ”R” ranged from 0.980 to 0.997, which proved the successful establishment of the fingerprint. PCA and HCA were performed with the relative peak areas of 15 common peaks (peak 3 as the reference peak) as variables. Anhui and Shaanxi can be successfully distinguished from the other four cultivation areas. In addition, the index components of caftaric acid, chlorogenic acid and cichoric acid were in the range of 1.77–8.60 mg/g, 0.02–0.20 mg/g and 2.27–15.87 mg/g. The results of multi-component index content determination show that the contents of the Shandong cultivation area were higher, followed by Gansu, Henan and Hebei, and the lowest were Anhui and Shaanxi. The results are consistent with PCA and HCA, which proved that the quality of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench from different origins was different. HPLC fingerprint combined with chemical pattern recognition and multi-component content determination was a reliable, comprehensive and prospective method for evaluating the quality of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench. This method provides a scientific basis for the quality control and evaluation of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench.
Mass Spectrometric Proof of Predicted Peptides: Novel Adipokinetic Hormones in Insects
Authors: Marco Heather G. , König Simone , Gäde Gerd
Published: October 2022

The importance of insects in our ecosystems is undeniable. The indiscriminate use of broad-spectrum insecticides is a factor in the decline in insect biomass. We identify and sequence a prominent neuropeptide hormone in insects with an overarching goal to elucidate relatedness and create a database of bioactive peptides that could inform possible cross-activity in biological assays for the identification of a biorational lead compound. The major task of an adipokinetic hormone (AKH) in an insect is the regulation of metabolic events, such as carbohydrate and lipid breakdown in storage tissue during intense muscular work. From genomic and/or transcriptomic information one may predict the genes encoding neuropeptides such as the AKHs of insects. Definite elucidation of the primary structure of the mature peptide with putative post-translational modifications needs analytical chemical methods. Here we use high-resolution mass spectrometry coupled with liquid chromatography to identify unequivocally the AKHs of five insect species (one cockroach, two moths, and two flies) of which either genomic/transcriptomic information was available or sequences from related species. We confirm predicted sequences and discover novel AKH sequences, including one with a post-translational hydroxyproline modification. The additional sequences affirm an evolutionary pattern of dipteran AKHs and a conserved pattern in crambid moths.
Chemical Profile of Cyperus laevigatus and Its Protective Effects against Thioacetamide-Induced Hepatorenal Toxicity in Rats
Authors: Ayoub Iriny M. , El-Baset Marawan A. , Elghonemy Mai M. , Bashandy Samir A. E. , Ibrahim Fatma A. A. , Ahmed-Farid Omar A. H. , El Gendy Abd El-Nasser G. , Afifi Sherif M. , Esatbeyoglu Tuba , Farrag Abdel Razik H. , Farag Mohamed A. , Elshamy Abdelsamed I.
Published: October 2022

Cyperus species represent a group of cosmopolitan plants used in folk medicine to treat several diseases. In the current study, the phytochemical profile of Cyperus laevigatus ethanolic extract (CLEE) was assessed using UPLC-QTOF–MS/MS. The protective effect of CLEE at 50 and 100 mg /kg body weight (b.w.) was evaluated on hepatorenal injuries induced by thioacetamide (100 mg/kg) via investigation of the extract’s effects on oxidative stress, inflammatory markers and histopathological changes in the liver and kidney. UPLC-QTOF–MS/MS analysis of CLEE resulted in the identification of 94 compounds, including organic and phenolic acids, flavones, aurones, and fatty acids. CLEE improved the antioxidant status in the liver and kidney, as manifested by enhancement of reduced glutathione (GSH) and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), in addition to the reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG). Moreover, CLEE positively affected oxidative stress parameters in plasma and thwarted the depletion of hepatorenal ATP content by thioacetamide (TAA). Furthermore, treatment of rats with CLEE alleviated the significant increase in plasma liver enzymes, kidney function parameters, and inflammatory markers. The protective effect of CLEE was confirmed by a histopathological study of the liver and kidney. Our results proposed that CLEE may reduce TAA-hepatorenal toxicity via its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties suppressing oxidative stress.
Unveiling Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Compositional Differences between Dukkah and Za’atar via SPME-GCMS and HPLC-DAD
Authors: Sedeek Mohamed S. , Afifi Sherif M. , Mansour Mai K. , Hassan Mariam , Mehaya Fathy M. , Naguib Ibrahim A. , Abourehab Mohammed A.S. , Farag Mohamed A.
Published: October 2022

Interest in plant-based diets has been on the rise in recent years owing to the potential health benefits of their individual components and the notion that plant-based diets might reduce the incidence of several diseases. Egyptian dukkah and Syrian za’atar are two of the most historic and famous Middle Eastern herbal blends used for their anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, and antidiabetic effects. Headspace SPME-GCMS and HPLC-DAD were adopted for characterizing the aroma profile and phenolic compounds of both herbal blends, respectively. Further, vapor-phase minimum inhibitory concentration was employed for assessing each blend’s antibacterial potential, while their antioxidant potential was estimated via in vitro antioxidant assays. SPME headspace analysis indicated the abundance of ethers and monoterpene hydrocarbons, while HPLC revealed the presence of several phenolics including rosmarinic acid, ferulic acid, and rutin. Biological investigations affirmed that vapor-phase of the tested blends exhibited antibacterial activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, while the antioxidant potential of the blends was investigated and expressed as Trolox (125.15 ± 5.92 to 337.26 ± 13.84 μM T eq/mg) and EDTA (18.08 ± 1.62 to 51.69 41 ± 5.33 μM EDTA eq/mg) equivalent. The presented study offers the first insight into the chemical profile and biological activities of both dukkah and za’atar.
Biomimetic Targeted Theranostic Nanoparticles for Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Marshall Suphalak Khamruang , Angsantikul Pavimol , Pang Zhiqing , Nasongkla Norased , Hussen Rusnah Syahila Duali , Thamphiwatana Soracha D.
Published: October 2022

The development of biomimetic drug delivery systems for biomedical applications has attracted significant research attention. As the use of cell membrane as a surface coating has shown to be a promising platform for several disease treatments. Cell-membrane-coated nanoparticles exhibit enhanced immunocompatibility and prolonged circulation time. Herein, human red blood cell (RBC) membrane-cloaked nanoparticles with enhanced targeting functionality were designed as a targeted nanotheranostic against cancer. Naturally, derived human RBC membrane modified with targeting ligands coated onto polymeric nanoparticle cores containing both chemotherapy and imaging agent. Using epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM)-positive MCF-7 breast cancer cells as a disease model, the nature-inspired targeted theranostic human red blood cell membrane-coated polymeric nanoparticles (TT-RBC-NPs) platform was capable of not only specifically binding to targeted cancer cells, effectively delivering doxorubicin (DOX), but also visualizing the targeted cancer cells. The TT-RBC-NPs achieved an extended-release profile, with the majority of the drug release occurring within 5 days. The TT-RBC-NPs enabled enhanced cytotoxic efficacy against EpCAM positive MCF-7 breast cancer over the non-targeted NPs. Additionally, fluorescence images of the targeted cancer cells incubated with the TT-RBC-NPs visually indicated the increased cellular uptake of TT-RBC-NPs inside the breast cancer cells. Taken together, this TT-RBC-NP platform sets the foundation for the next-generation stealth theranostic platforms for systemic cargo delivery for treatment and diagnostic of cancer.
Polydatin: Pharmacological Mechanisms, Therapeutic Targets, Biological Activities, and Health Benefits
Authors: Karami Ahmad , Fakhri Sajad , Kooshki Leila , Khan Haroon
Published: October 2022

Polydatin is a natural potent stilbenoid polyphenol and a resveratrol derivative with improved bioavailability. Polydatin possesses potential biological activities predominantly through the modulation of pivotal signaling pathways involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Various imperative biological activities have been suggested for polydatin towards promising therapeutic effects, including anticancer, cardioprotective, anti-diabetic, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anti-microbial, as well as health-promoting roles on the renal system, the respiratory system, rheumatoid diseases, the skeletal system, and women’s health. In the present study, the therapeutic targets, biological activities, pharmacological mechanisms, and health benefits of polydatin are reviewed to provide new insights to researchers. The need to develop further clinical trials and novel delivery systems of polydatin is also considered to reveal new insights to researchers.
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activities of Taraxacum officinale Essential Oil
Authors: Kamal Fatima Zahra , Lefter Radu , Mihai Cosmin-Teodor , Farah Hanane , Ciobica Alin , Ali Ahmad , Radu Iulian , Mavroudis Ioannis , Ech-Chahad Abdellah
Published: October 2022

Taraxacum officinale (TO) has been historically used for medicinal purposes due to its biological activity against specific disorders. To investigate the antioxidant and the antiproliferativepotential of TO essential oil in vitro and in vivo, the chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed by GC-MS. The in vivo antioxidant capacity was assessed on liver and kidney homogenate samples from mice subjected to acetaminophen-induced oxidative stress and treated with TO essential oil (600 and 12,000 mg/kg BW) for 14 days. The in vitro scavenging activity was assayed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the reducing power methods. The cytotoxic effects against the HeLa cancer cell line were analyzed. The GC-MS analysis showed the presence of 34 compounds, 8 of which were identified as major constituents. The TO essential oil protected mice’s liver and kidneys from acetaminophen-induced oxidative stress by enhancing antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione) and lowering malondialdehyde levels. In vitro, the TO essential oil demonstrated low scavenging activity against DPPH (IC50 = 2.00 ± 0.05 mg/mL) and modest reducing power (EC50 = 0.963 ± 0.006 mg/mL). The growth of the HeLa cells was also reduced by the TO essential oil with an inhibition rate of 83.58% at 95 µg/mL. Current results reveal significant antioxidant and antiproliferative effects in a dose-dependent manner and suggest that Taraxacum officinale essential oil could be useful in formulations for cancer therapy.
A Hydrothermal Method to Generate Carbon Quantum Dots from Waste Bones and Their Detection of Laundry Powder
Authors: Ye Heng , Liu Binbin , Wang Jin , Zhou Chunyu , Xiong Zhili , Zhao Longshan
Published: October 2022

Surfactants are one of the major pollutants in laundry powder, which have an impact on the environment and human health. Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are spherical zero-dimensional fluorescent nanoparticles with great potential for fluorescent probing, electrochemical biosensing and ion sensing. Herein, a bottom-up approach was developed for the synthesis of CQDs from biomass to detect laundry detergent and laundry powder. Waste chicken bones were used as carbon precursors after being dried, crushed and reacted with pure water at 180 °C for 4 h to generate CQDs, which exhibited a monodisperse quasi-spherical structure with an average particle size of 3.2 ± 0.2 nm. Functional groups, including -OH, C=O, C=C and C-O, were identified on the surface of the prepared CQDs. The optimal fluorescence excitation wavelength of the yellow-brown CQDs was 380 nm, with a corresponding emission peak at 465 nm. CQDs did not significantly increase cell death in multiple cell lines at concentrations of 200 µg·mL−1. Fluorescence enhancement of CQDs was observed after addition of sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate, a major anionic surfactant in laundry powder. A linear relationship between fluorescence enhancement CQDs and the concentration of laundry powder was established. Thus, a hydrothermal method was developed to generate CQDs from waste biomass that may be used as a fluorescent probe to detect laundry powder.
New Biologically Hybrid Pharmacophore Thiazolidinone-Based Indole Derivatives: Synthesis, In Vitro Αlpha-Amylase and Αlpha-Glucosidase Along with Molecular Docking Investigations
Authors: Khan Shoaib , Iqbal Shahid , Rahim Fazal , Shah Mazloom , Hussain Rafaqat , Alrbyawi Hamad , Rehman Wajid , Dera Ayed A. , Rasheed Liaqat , Somaily H. H. , Pashameah Rami Adel , Alzahrani Eman , Farouk Abd-ElAziem
Published: October 2022

Amylase and glucosidase enzymes are the primary harmful source in the development of the chronic condition known as diabetes mellitus. The main function of these enzymes is to break the macromolecules into simple sugar units which are directly involved in the solubility of blood, hence increasing blood glucose levels. To overcome this effect, there is a need for a potent and effective inhibitor that inhibits the conversion of macromolecules of sugar into its smaller units. In this regard, we synthesized thiazolidinone-based indole derivatives (1–20). The synthesized derivatives were evaluated for α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Different substituted derivatives were found with moderate to good potentials having IC50 values ranging, for α-amylase, from 1.50 ± 0.05 to 29.60 ± 0.40 μM and, for α-glucosidase, from IC50 = 2.40 ± 0.10 to 31.50 ± 0.50 μM. Among the varied substituted compounds, the most active analogs four (1.80 ± 0.70 and 2.70 ± 0.70), five (1.50 ± 0.05 and 2.40 ± 0.10, respectively) of the series showed few folds better inhibitory activity than standard drug acarbose (IC50 = 10.20 ± 0.10 and 11.70 ± 0.10 μM, respectively). Moreover, structure–activity relationship (SAR) was established and binding interactions were analyzed for ligands and proteins (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) through a molecular docking study.
Research Progress on the Positive and Negative Regulatory Effects of Rhein on the Kidney: A Review of Its Molecular Targets
Authors: Zhu Yanna , Yang Shilei , Lv Linlin , Zhai Xiaohan , Wu Guoyu , Qi Xiaolin , Dong Deshi , Tao Xufeng
Published: October 2022

Currently, both acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are considered to be the leading public health problems with gradually increasing incidence rates around the world. Rhein is a monomeric component of anthraquinone isolated from rhubarb, a traditional Chinese medicine. It has anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, anti-apoptosis, anti-bacterial and other pharmacological activities, as well as a renal protective effects. Rhein exerts its nephroprotective effects mainly through decreasing hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic, playing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic effects and regulating drug-transporters. However, the latest studies show that rhein also has potential kidney toxicity in case of large dosages and long use times. The present review highlights rhein’s molecular targets and its different effects on the kidney based on the available literature and clarifies that rhein regulates the function of the kidney in a positive and negative way. It will be helpful to conduct further studies on how to make full use of rhein in the kidney and to avoid kidney damage so as to make it an effective kidney protection drug.
Impact of Nd3+ Substitutions on the Structure and Magnetic Properties of Nanostructured SrFe12O19 Hexaferrite
Authors: Semaida Ashraf M. , Darwish Moustafa A. , Salem Mohamed M. , Zhou Di , Zubar Tatiana I. , Trukhanov Sergei V. , Trukhanov Alex V. , Menushenkov Vladimir P. , Savchenko Alexander G.
Published: October 2022

In this study, SrFe12-xNdxO19, where x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5, was prepared using high-energy ball milling. The prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Using the XRD results, a comparative analysis of crystallite sizes of the prepared powders was carried out by different methods (models) such as the Scherrer, Williamson–Hall (W–H), Halder–Wagner (H–W), and size-strain plot (SSP) method. All the studied methods prove that the average nanocrystallite size of the prepared samples increases by increasing the Nd concentration. The H–W and SSP methods are more accurate than the Scherer or W–H methods, suggesting that these methods are more suitable for analyzing the XRD spectra obtained in this study. The specific saturation magnetization (σs), the effective anisotropy constant (Keff), the field of magnetocrystalline anisotropy (Ha), and the field of shape anisotropy (Hd) for SrFe12-xNdxO19 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) powders were calculated. The coercivity (Hc) increases (about 9% at x = 0.4) with an increasing degree of substitution of Fe3+ by Nd3+, which is one of the main parameters for manufacturing permanent magnets.
A critical study of the case of discord and conflict in light of Article 126 of the Jordanian Personal Status Law for the year 2019
Authors: Abu Jameh Nour Adel
Published: October 2022

Objectives: The study aims to:

Explain the concept of discord and conflict in jurisprudence, and the Jordanian Personal Status Law;
Explain the ruling on differentiation for discord and conflict in Islamic jurisprudence;
identify the extent to which the judge relies on the two judgments in determining the percentage of abuse for each spouse; and
Find out evidence for the entitlement of the dowry in full in jurisprudence and the Jordanian Personal Status Law.

Methods: The study followed the inductive approach, which is based on extrapolating the texts related to the subject of the study from their original sources, and then analyzing them. It is also based on the comparative approach, where I presented the sayings of jurisprudence schools and the texts of the Personal Status Law and the Code of Shari'a Procedures.
Results: The researcher concluded that the conflicts that occur after marriage between spouses have nothing to do with the dowry, because the dowry is the right of the wife.
Conclusions: We recommend that the draft law reconsider the case of discord and dispute and reformulate the relevant legal texts. We recommend repealing paragraphs e, f, and g of Article 126 of the Personal Status Law.
Nefropatía inducida por medio de contraste en intervención coronaria percutánea: Reporte de caso clínico
Authors: Silva Danny , Arreaga Cesar , Silva Fernando , Barrera Mirella , Flores Velimir , Salazar Juan , Salazar Diana , Kang Ernesto , Camacho Flavia , Quintero Linda
Published: October 2022

La nefropatía inducida por contraste (NIC), constituye la tercera causa de lesión renal aguda intrahospitalaria. Aunque la mayoría de los casos son autolimitados y la función renal regresa a su estado habitual en 1-3 semanas, también se pueden presentar complicaciones a corto o a largo plazo como la insuficiencia renal crónica, la necesidad de terapia de diálisis e incluso, puede provocar la muerte. Aquí se presenta un caso de una paciente con cardiopatía isquémica, lesión valvular que se realizó intervención coronaria percutánea. Se pudo concluir que las medidas preventivas que han demostrado mayor efectividad son: la expansión de volumen intravascular (hidratación), retiro de medicamentos nefrótoxicos y determinar que el medio de contraste sea de baja osmolaridad.
Bir Film (Life Overtakes Me), Sığınmacı Çocuklar ve Vazgeçilmiş Bedenler: Vazgeçme/Terketme Sendromu ya da Gizli Yaralar
Authors: AKER Hacer
Published: October 2022

Sinemasal metinlerin sığınmacı çocukların ruh sağlığı üzerine ne söylediği sorusundan hareket eden bu çalışma, politik kararların ve uygulanan pratiklerin bireyselde yarattığı tahribatın boyutlarıyla ilgilenmekte; bunu da belgesel anlatıları üzerinden düşünmektedir. Belgesel sineması evrenseli içerisinden amaçlı örnekleme tekniği ile güncelliği, odağına sığınmacı çocukları ve onların ruhsal hastalıklarını konu alması ve bilinmeyene yönelik farkındalık yaratma çabası dolayısıyla Life Overtakes Me (Hayatın Tutsakları, John Haptas ve Kristine Samuelson, 2019), inceleme nesnesi olarak seçilmiştir. Film dolayımıyla görünür kılınan ve bedeni ele geçiren vazgeçme/terketme sendromu, mikro kozmosta mülteci olmanın travması ve bu travmanın çocuklar üzerindeki etkileri hakkında konuşmak için elverişli bir zemin sunmaktadır. Life Overtakes Me aracılığıyla göçün aileler ve çocuklar üzerinde sadece fiziksel değil aynı zamanda ruhsal ve biyolojik çözülmeler yarattığını ortaya koymayı ve bilinmeyen bir hastalığın bilinen sonuçlarını görünür kılmayı amaçlayan çalışma, üç düzey üzerinden kurgulanmıştır: İlk düzeyde göç kavramı, mülteci yazını ve mülteci çocukların ruh sağlığı üzerine literatür gözden geçirilmiştir. Son iki düzeyde çalışma, vazgeçme/terketme sendromunu tanımlamış ve Life Overtakes Me adlı belgesel filmi analiz etmiştir. Çözümleme, film anlatısı ve yönetmenlerin film anlatısına dair kavrayışları arasında metinlerarası analiz yapılarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Genel cepheden açığa çıkan sonuç, çocukların kendi ülkelerinde yaşadıkları taciz/travmalar ve sığındıkları ülkeye alıştıktan sonra tekrar geri dönme korkusuyla tetiklenen bu hastalık/rahatsızlığın, siyasi mülteci tanımında yaşanan daralmaya paralel arttığı yönündedir. Son on yılda çocuk sığınmacı sayısında yaşanan artış dikkate alındığında, Life Overtakes Me dolayımıyla ortaya koyulan bulguların önemli olduğu düşünülmektedir.
Evsiz Bireylerin Sosyal Hayatı Üzerine Nitel Bir Araştırma: “Türkiye Örneği”
Authors: AKYILDIZ Yasin
Published: October 2022

Evsizlik sorunu Dünyada bütün toplumlarda görülen sosyal bir mesele haline gelmiştir. Özellikle Batıda evsizlik sorununun çözümlenebilmesi için bilimsel alanda birçok proje ve araştırma bulunmaktadır. Türkiye’de özellikle büyük şehirlerde etkisi giderek artan evsizlik olgusu üzerine yapılan araştırmalar üç il ile sınırlıdır. Araştırmaların farklı disiplinler düzeyinde yaygınlaştırılması gerekmektedir. Evsizlik olgusunun anlaşılabilmesi için kadın, erkek, çocuk, genç, yetişkin, yaşlı evsizliği üzerine bilimsel çalışmalar yapılmalıdır. Bu araştırmada Türkiye’de yapılan tez düzeyindeki çalışmalar doküman analizi kapsamında değerlendirilmiştir. Değerlendirmeler sonucunda evsizliğin temel sebeplerinin aile temelli ilişkiler ile ekonomi temelli sorunlar olduğu anlaşılmıştır. Yapılan çalışmaların sınırlı olması evsizliğin sosyal bağlamının anlaşılmasını da zorlaştırmaktadır. Evsizlik sorununun giderek artan sosyal bir mesele olmasının önlenmesi için evsizlik çalışmalarının yaygınlaştırılması gerekmektedir.