bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain-Implantable Multifunctional Probe for Simultaneous Detection of Glutamate and GABA Neurotransmitters: Optimization and In Vivo Studies
Authors: Billa Sanjeev , Yanamadala Yaswanthi , Hossain Imran , Siddiqui Shabnam , Moldovan Nicolaie , Murray Teresa A. , Arumugam Prabhu U.
Published: June 2022

Imbalances in levels of glutamate (GLU) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and their sub-second signaling dynamics occur in several brain disorders including traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, and Alzheimer’s disease. The present work reports on the optimization and in vivo testing of a silicon (Si) multifunctional biosensor probe for sub-second simultaneous real-time detection of GLU and GABA. The Si probe features four surface-functionalized platinum ultramicroelectrodes (UMEs) for detection of GLU and GABA, a sentinel site, and integrated microfluidics for in-situ calibration. Optimal enzyme concentrations, size-exclusion phenylenediamine layer and micro spotting conditions were systematically investigated. The measured GLU sensitivity for the GLU and GABA sites were as high as 219 ± 8 nA μM−1 cm−2 (n = 3). The measured GABA sensitivity was as high as 10 ± 1 nA μM−1 cm−2 (n = 3). Baseline recordings (n = 18) in live rats demonstrated a useful probe life of at least 11 days with GLU and GABA concentrations changing at the levels of 100′s and 1000′s of μM and with expected periodic bursts or fluctuations during walking, teeth grinding and other activities and with a clear difference in the peak amplitude of the sensor fluctuations between rest (low) and activity (higher), or when the rat was surprised (a reaction with no movement). Importantly, the probe could improve methods for large-scale monitoring of neurochemical activity and network function in disease and injury, in live rodent brain.
Glucosylceramides from Cladosporium and Their Roles in Fungi–Plant Interaction
Authors: Xisto Mariana Ingrid Dutra da Silva , Bernardino Mariana Collodetti , Rollin-Pinheiro Rodrigo , Montebianco Caroline Barros , da Silva Andrêina Paula , Calixto Renata Oliveira Rocha , Mattos Bianca Braz , Vaslin Maite Freitas Silva , Barreto-Bergter Eliana
Published: June 2022

Cladosporium species are widely distributed filamentous fungi. One of the most important species is C. herbarum, which is related to infections in a variety of plants and of concern in plantations. Fungal cerebrosides, such as glucosylceramide (GlcCer), have been described as playing important roles in fungal growth and pathogenesis, but GlcCer from C. herbarum has not been characterized so far. For this reason, the present study aimed to elucidate the chemical structure of GlcCer from C. herbarum and its role in the interaction with Passiflora edulis. Mass spectrometry characterization of purified GlcCer revealed two major molecular ions, m/z 760 and m/z 774, and it reacts with monoclonal anti-GlcCer antibodies and is exposed on the fungal surface. P. edulis treatment with GlcCer induced increased levels of superoxide as well as the expression of some genes related to plant defense, such as PR3, POD, LOX and PAL. GlcCer also enhanced growth parameters, such as plant height and root weight. All these results suggest that C. herbarum GlcCer can stimulate plant defense mechanisms, which could help plants to face fungal infections.
A Review on the Role of Endophytes and Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria in Mitigating Heat Stress in Plants
Authors: Shaffique Shifa , Khan Muhammad Aaqil , Wani Shabir Hussain , Pande Anjali , Imran Muhammad , Kang Sang-Mo , Rahim Waqas , Khan Sumera Afzal , Bhatta Dibya , Kwon Eun-Hae , Lee In-Jung
Published: June 2022

Among abiotic stresses, heat stress is described as one of the major limiting factors of crop growth worldwide, as high temperatures elicit a series of physiological, molecular, and biochemical cascade events that ultimately result in reduced crop yield. There is growing interest among researchers in the use of beneficial microorganisms. Intricate and highly complex interactions between plants and microbes result in the alleviation of heat stress. Plant–microbe interactions are mediated by the production of phytohormones, siderophores, gene expression, osmolytes, and volatile compounds in plants. Their interaction improves antioxidant activity and accumulation of compatible osmolytes such as proline, glycine betaine, soluble sugar, and trehalose, and enriches the nutrient status of stressed plants. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the heat response of plants and to understand the mechanisms of microbe-mediated stress alleviation on a physio-molecular basis. This review indicates that microbes have a great potential to enhance the protection of plants from heat stress and enhance plant growth and yield. Owing to the metabolic diversity of microorganisms, they can be useful in mitigating heat stress in crop plants. In this regard, microorganisms do not present new threats to ecological systems. Overall, it is expected that continued research on microbe-mediated heat stress tolerance in plants will enable this technology to be used as an ecofriendly tool for sustainable agronomy.
Brucellosis in Humans and Animals in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Kydyshov Kalysbek , Usenbaev Nurbolot , Sharshenbekov Almaz , Aitkuluev Narynbek , Abdyraev Murat , Chegirov Salamat , Kazybaeva Jarkynay , Brangsch Hanka , Melzer Falk , Neubauer Heinrich , Pletz Mathias W.
Published: June 2022

Brucellosis is a globally reemerging and neglected zoonosis causing serious public health problems as well as considerable economic losses due to infection of livestock. Although the epidemiology of brucellosis has been well studied and its various aspects in humans and animals are well understood, it is still one of the most challenging health problems in many developing countries such as Kyrgyzstan. This review describes epidemiological characteristics of brucellosis in humans and animals, its impact on animal production and the role of implemented infection control measures in Kyrgyzstan. Particularly, introduction of mass vaccination in small ruminants evidently contributed to control of brucellosis in Kyrgyzstan, reducing the number of infections in animals as well as humans.
The Advances of Broad-Spectrum and Hot Anti-Coronavirus Drugs
Authors: Zeng Sen , Li Yuwan , Zhu Wenhui , Luo Zipeng , Wu Keke , Li Xiaowen , Fang Yiqi , Qin Yuwei , Chen Wenxian , Li Zhaoyao , Zou Linke , Liu Xiaodi , Yi Lin , Fan Shuangqi
Published: June 2022

Coronaviruses, mainly including severe acute respiratory syndrome virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, Middle East respiratory syndrome virus, human coronavirus OC43, chicken infectious bronchitis virus, porcine infectious gastroenteritis virus, porcine epidemic diarrhea virus, and murine hepatitis virus, can cause severe diseases in humans and livestock. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is infecting millions of human beings with high morbidity and mortality worldwide, and the multiplicity of swine epidemic diarrhea coronavirus in swine suggests that coronaviruses seriously jeopardize the safety of public health and that therapeutic intervention is urgently needed. Currently, the most effective methods of prevention and control for coronaviruses are vaccine immunization and pharmacotherapy. However, the emergence of mutated viruses reduces the effectiveness of vaccines. In addition, vaccine developments often lag behind, making it difficult to put them into use early in the outbreak. Therefore, it is meaningful to screen safe, cheap, and broad-spectrum antiviral agents for coronaviruses. This review systematically summarizes the mechanisms and state of anti-human and porcine coronavirus drugs, in order to provide theoretical support for the development of anti-coronavirus drugs and other antivirals.
Stability Evaluation and Structural Parameters Optimization of Stope Based on Area Bearing Theory
Authors: Qiu Hao-Yu , Huang Ming-Qing , Weng Ya-Jie
Published: June 2022

A reasonable and stable stope structure is the premise of realizing safe mining of underground metal ore. To safely mine the gently inclined medium-thick ore body, stope stability in Bainiuchang Mine was analyzed based on the pillar area bearing theory, and stope stability with regard to nine groups of structural parameters was numerically simulated. The results show that the existing stope structural parameters failed to maintain stability requirements and tended to be exposed to the risk of stope collapse. The middle section of the pillar as well as stope roofs and floors are vulnerable due to tensile stress when mining by open stoping, and the compressive stress concentration is prone to occur at the junction of the pillars, stope side walls, roofs and floors. Shear stress contributes little to pillar failure. The reasonable stope structural parameters of open stoping for the gently inclined medium-thick ore body in Bainiuchang mine are optimized using ANSYS numerical simulation: stope height 4.5 m, pillar diameter 4 m, pillar spacing 7 m and pillar row spacing 8 m. The onsite trial shows that the ore recovery rate reaches 82% under these parameters, which also realizes the equilibrium of safety and economy.
Effects of Accumulated Damage on the Dynamic Properties of Coal Measures Sandstone
Authors: Sha Ziheng , Pu Hai , Xu Junce , Ni Hongyang , Guo Shiru
Published: June 2022

The coupling effect of accumulated damage and impact load substantially affects the integrity of the surrounding rock structure in deep coal mining engineering, which has inhibited safe and effective coal mining. Therefore, dynamic compression tests were performed on coal measures sandstone specimens with accumulated damage using the SHPB device. The effects of a high strain rate and accumulated damage on the sandstone’s mechanical behavior and damage evolution were investigated. The results reveal that accumulated damage has a considerable impact on specimen stress–strain curves and lowers dynamic compressive strength and deformation modulus substantially. The sandstone failure mode looks to be shear failure from a macroscopic perspective, while it appears to be intergranular fracture between the mineral particles from a microscopic perspective. The macroscopic and microscopic failure mechanisms of the sandstone specimens likewise conformed to the energy absorption law. The accumulated damage factor and the accumulated damage correction coefficient were presented in order to construct a statistical damage constitutive model of rocks based on the Weibull distribution. This model provides a decent description of the effects of accumulated damage and the strain rate on sandstone’s mechanical behavior, with parameters that are all of evident physical significance.
Bioavailability of Colloidal Iron to Heterotrophic Bacteria in Sediments, and Effects on the Mobility of Colloid-Associated Metal(loid)s
Authors: Grybos Malgorzata , Masson Delphine , Gorgeon Pauline , Fondanèche Patrice , Martin Nicolas , Dupuy Fabrice , Joussein Emmanuel , Robin Valentin
Published: June 2022

The submicrometric fraction of surface sediments that accumulate in the bottom of dam reservoirs represent important sources of nutrients and contaminants in freshwater systems. However, assessing their stability in the presence of sediment bacteria as well as their bioavailability in the sediment remains poorly understood. We hypothesized that sediment’s bacteria are able to extract nutrients from sedimentary colloids (<1 µm fraction) and thus contribute to the release of other colloid-associated elements to water. Experiments were performed under laboratory conditions, using the submicrometric fractions of sediments recovered from two dam reservoirs (in calcareous and crystalline granitic contexts) and two heterotrophic bacteria (Gram-negative Pseudomonas sp. and Gram-positive Mycolicibacterium sp.). The results demonstrated that bacteria were able to maintain their metabolic activity (the acidification of the growth medium and the production of organic ligands) in the presence of colloids as the sole source of iron (Fe) and regardless of their chemical composition. This demonstrates that bioavailable Fe, aside from ionic forms, can also occur in colloidal forms. However, the bacteria also catalyzed the release of potentially toxic metallic elements (such as Pb) associated with colloids. These results help improve our understanding of the processes that influence contaminants’ mobility in the ecosystems as well as provide an important insight into current research evaluating the bioavailability of different forms of nutrients.
Fragmentation Size Distribution Measurement by GNSS-Aided Photogrammetry at Real Mine Site
Authors: Toriya Hisatoshi , Tungol Zedrick Paul L. , Ikeda Hajime , Owada Narihiro , Jang Hyong Doo , Adachi Tsuyoshi , Kitahara Itaru , Kawamura Youhei
Published: June 2022

In mining operations that employ explosives and mineral processing, one of the important factors for efficient and low-cost operation is the fragmentation size distribution of rock after it has been blasted. Automatic scaling is a critical component of fragmentation size distribution measurement as it will directly determine the accuracy of the size estimation. In this study, we propose a method to create a system for creating a scaled 3D CG model, without the use of ground truth data such as GCPs (Ground Control Points), for the purpose of improving fragmentation size distribution measurement using positional data such as GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System)-aided photogrammetry. We confirmed the validation of the method through an experimental evaluation of actual muckpiles. The results showed evidence of improving the scaling aspect of 3D fragmentation measurement systems without using GCPs or manual scales, specifically in surface mines where GNSS data are available.
A Combined Cyanine/Carbomer Gel Enhanced Photodynamic Antimicrobial Activity and Wound Healing
Authors: Guan Ming , Chu Guangyu , Jin Jiale , Liu Can , Cheng Linxiang , Guo Yi , Deng Zexing , Wang Yue
Published: June 2022

As a non-invasive and non-specific therapeutic approach, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been used to treat antibiotic-resistant bacteria with encouraging efficacy. Inspired by light, the photosensitizers can produce excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and, thus, effectively destroy or kill bacteria. Cyanine (Cy), a traditional photosensitizer for PDT, has the advantages of low cytotoxicity and high ROS yield. Yet, the water solubility and photostability for Cy are poor, which substantially limit its antibacterial efficiency and clinical translation. Herein, we combined Cy with carbomer gel (CBMG) to form a photodynamic Cy-CBMG hydrogel. In this system, Cy was evenly dispersed in CBMG, and CBMG significantly improved the water solubility and photostability of Cy via electrostatic interactions. The developed Cy-CBMG gel had less photodegradation under laser irradiation and thus can effectively elevate ROS accumulation in bacteria. The Cy-CBMG compound presented remarkable ROS-induced killing efficacy against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (93.0%) and extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli (88.7%) in vitro. Moreover, as a potential wound dressing material, the Cy-CBMG hydrogel exhibited excellent biocompatibility and effective antimicrobial ability to promote wound healing in vivo. Overall, this work proposed a practical strategy to synthesize a photosensitizer–excipient compound to enhance the photophysical property and antibacterial efficacy for PDT.
Insights on Spark Plasma Sintering of Magnesium Composites: A Review
Authors: Somasundaram M. , Uttamchand Narendra Kumar , Annamalai A. Raja , Jen Chun-Ping
Published: June 2022

This review paper gives an insight into the microstructural, mechanical, biological, and corrosion resistance of spark plasma sintered magnesium (Mg) composites. Mg has a mechanical property similar to natural human bones as well as biodegradable and biocompatible properties. Furthermore, Mg is considered a potential material for structural and biomedical applications. However, its high affinity toward oxygen leads to oxidation of the material. Various researchers optimize the material composition, processing techniques, and surface modifications to overcome this issue. In this review, effort has been made to explore the role of process techniques, especially applying a typical powder metallurgy process and the sintering technique called spark plasma sintering (SPS) in the processing of Mg composites. The effect of reinforcement material on Mg composites is illustrated well. The reinforcement’s homogeneity, size, and shape affect the mechanical properties of Mg composites. The evidence shows that Mg composites exhibit better corrosion resistance, as the reinforcement act as a cathode in a Mg matrix. However, in most cases, a localized corrosion phenomenon is observed. The Mg composite’s high corrosion rate has adversely affected cell viability and promotes cytotoxicity. The reinforcement of bioactive material to the Mg matrix is a potential method to enhance the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of the materials. However, the impact of SPS process parameters on the final quality of the Mg composite needs to be explored.
Resistive Switching and Synaptic Characteristics in ZnO/TaON-Based RRAM for Neuromorphic System
Authors: Oh Inho , Pyo Juyeong , Kim Sungjun
Published: June 2022

We fabricated an ITO/ZnO/TaON/TaN device as nonvolatile memory (NVM) with resistive switching for complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) compatibility. It is appropriate for the age of big data, which demands high speed and capacity. We produced a TaON layer by depositing a ZnO layer on a TaN layer using an oxygen-reactive radio frequency (RF) sputtering system. The bi-layer formation of ZnO and TaON interferes with the filament rupture after the forming process and then raises the current level slightly. The current levels were divided into high- and low-compliance modes. The retention, endurance, and pulse conductance were verified with a neuromorphic device. This device was stable and less consumed when it was in low mode rather than high mode.
Competition-Induced Binding Spherical Nucleic AcidFluorescence Amplifier for the Detection of Di (2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate in the Aquatic Environment
Authors: Yuan Lin , Ji Dandan , Fu Qiang , Hu Mingyang
Published: June 2022

Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is a toxic plasticizer and androgen antagonist. Its accumulation in water exceeds national drinking water standards and it must be continuously and effectively regulated. Currently, methods used to detect DEHP are still unsatisfactory because they usually have limited detection sensitivity and require complex operating procedures. A competition-induced fluorescence detection method was developed for the selective detection of DEHP in an aquatic environment. An aptamer with walking function was used as the recognition element for DEHP, and its quantification was induced by competition to change the fluorescence signal. The detection range was 0.01~100 µg/L, and the detection limit was 1.008 μg/L. This high-sensitivity DEHP detection capability and simplified process facilitates real-time fields and other monitoring tasks.
Does Internet Use Connect Us to a Healthy Diet? Evidence from Rural China
Authors: Ma Baojie , Jin Xin
Published: June 2022

Dietary patterns in China have changed dramatically over the past few decades as the Internet has become rapidly available. Based on data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (2006–2011), we use a two-way fixed effects model and an instrumental variable approach to determine the impact of Internet use on the dietary quality of rural residents. The results indicate that Internet use could significantly improve the dietary quality of Chinese rural residents, with an increase of about 10.4% in the China Food Pagoda Score (CFPS), mainly due to the increase in the dietary quality score for five food groups: fruits, meats, eggs, oil, and salt. We also found that Internet use significantly increased the consumption amounts of milk and its products (4 g), fruits (31 g), eggs (8 g), and vegetables (34 g), while also decreasing the intake of salts (2 g) and oil (6 g). A possible mechanism is that Internet use improves the dietary knowledge of rural residents, thus optimizing their dietary structure. Moreover, the effect of the Internet was greater among females and those who prepare food for a family. Rural residents without a college degree enjoyed more benefits. In summary, governments should further promote Internet penetration in rural areas for health purposes.
Nutritional Status and Related Factors in Patients with Gastric Cancer after Gastrectomy: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wang Hui-Mei , Wang Tsae-Jyy , Huang Ching-Shui , Liang Shu-Yuan , Yu Chia-Hui , Lin Ting-Ru , Wu Kuo-Feng
Published: June 2022

Patients after gastrectomy for gastric cancer are at risk of malnutrition, and poor nutritional status negatively affects patients’ clinical outcomes. Knowledge of the factors influencing patients’ nutritional status can inform interventions for improving patients’ nutrition. A cross-sectional study was conducted to describe nutritional status and related factors in gastric cancer patients after gastrectomy. A convenience sample of gastric cancer patients with gastrectomy was recruited from general surgery or oncology clinics of a medical center in northern Taiwan. Data were collected with self-reported questionnaires, including the Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy—Gastric Module version 4, the Concerns in Meal Preparation scale, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and the Mini Nutrition Assessment. One hundred and one gastric cancer patients participated in the study. There were 81 cases of subtotal gastrectomy and 20 cases of total gastrectomy. Most patients (52.5%) were malnourished or at risk. Linear regression showed that symptom severity (β = −0.43), employment status (β = 0.19), and difficulty in diet preparation (β = −0.21) were significant predictors of nutritional status. Together, these three variables explained 35.8% of the variance in patient nutritional status (F = 20.3, p < 0.001). More than 50% of our participants were malnourished or at risk for malnutrition, indicating a need for continued monitoring and support after discharge from hospitals. Special attention should be given to patients with severe symptoms, unemployment, and difficulties in diet preparation.
Effects of Probiotics Supplementation on Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Athletes: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Łagowska Karolina , Bajerska Joanna , Kamiński Szymon , Del Bo’ Cristian
Published: June 2022

This study examines the effectiveness of probiotic supplementation on gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, the gut barrier function, and inflammatory markers in athletes based on data from randomised controlled trials. Searches were conducted in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and the Web of Science up to October 2021. The protocol for this review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021284938). Two reviewers independently screened the titles, abstracts, and full texts to identify articles on the influence of probiotics or symbiotics on GI symptoms, gut barrier function, and cytokines, and the quality of the studies was assessed using RoB2. Ten articles involving 822 athletes were included in this review. A single strain Lactobacillus bacteria was used in three studies, seven studies used a Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium multi-strain cocktail, and one study used this cocktail with a prebiotic. Only slight evidence was found for a positive effect of probiotics on GI symptoms in athletes during training, exercise, and competition, so it was not possible to identify the best product for managing GI symptoms in athletes. Due to the small number of studies, it was also difficult to find a direct association between the reduced exercise-induced perturbations in cytokines, gut barrier function, and GI symptoms after probiotic supplementation.
First Detection of Salmonella enterica Serovar Choleraesuis in Free Ranging European Wild Boar in Sweden
Authors: Ernholm Linda , Sternberg-Lewerin Susanna , Ågren Erik , Ståhl Karl , Hultén Cecilia
Published: June 2022

Following the first detection of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica, serovar Choleraesuis (S. Choleraesuis) in a Swedish pig herd for more than 40 years and subsequent detection of the same serotype in an enclosure with kept wild boar, a national surveillance for S. Choleraesuis in free living wild boar was launched. A total of 633 wild boar sampled within the active and the enhanced passive surveillance were examined for Salmonella enterica serovars by culture. Of these, 80 animals were culture positive for S. Choleraesuis var. Kunzendorf. All positive animals, including those in the original outbreaks, originated from counties located in the southern and eastern parts of Sweden. Fifty-eight isolates were selected for sequence typing, revealing a relatively homogenous population of S. Choleraesuis with two distinct genetic clusters containing isolates from the southern counties in one and the counties further northeast in the other. Sequenced isolates from domestic pig farms all clustered with wild boar in the same region. S. Choleraesuis appears highly contagious in dense wild boar populations, making it a relevant model for other infectious diseases that may be transmitted to pigs. The many potential routes of introduction and spread of S. Choleraesuis warrant further investigations in order to prepare for other disease threats.
T-Cell Receptor β Chain and B-Cell Receptor Repertoires in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients with Coexisting HBsAg and Anti-HBs
Authors: Zhan Qiao , Chang Le , Wu Jian , Zhang Zhiyuan , Xu Jinghang , Yu Yanyan , Feng Zhenru , Zeng Zheng
Published: June 2022

Antibodies in response to antigens are related to the immune repertoire of T- and B-cell receptors. However, some patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) have coexisting HBsAg and anti-HBsAg antibodies (anti-HBs) that cannot neutralize HBV. We attempted to investigate the repertoires that produce this response in CHB patients. The T-cell receptor β chain (TRB) and B-cell receptor (BCR) repertoires of peripheral blood genomic DNA were analyzed using MiXCR. T-cell receptor (TCR) cluster analysis was carried out by clusTCR, and motifs prediction was selected by Multiple Em for Motif Elicitation (MEME). A total of 76 subjects were enrolled, including 26 HBsAg and anti-HBs coexisting patients with CHB (DP group), 25 anti-HBs single-positive healthy people (SP group), and 25 CHB patients (CHB group). The clone length of BCR in 39, 90 was significantly different among these groups (p = 0.005, 0.036). The motif “CASSLG” in the DP group was significantly higher than SP and CHB groups and may relate to coexistence, and the motif “GAGPLT” was only shown in the SP group and may relate to anti-HB expression. These provide important insights into vaccine development and CHB treatment.
Differential Effects of a Novel Opioid Ligand UTA1003 on Antinociceptive Tolerance and Motor Behaviour
Authors: Paul Alok K. , Woolley Krystel L. , Rahmatullah Mohammed , Wilairatana Polrat , Smith Jason A. , Gueven Nuri , Dietis Nikolas
Published: June 2022

Analgesic tolerance is a major problem in the clinic for the maintenance of opioid-induced long-term pain relief. Opioids with mixed activity on multiple opioid receptors promise reduced antinociceptive tolerance in preclinical studies, but these compounds typically show poor bioavailability upon oral, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, or intravenous administration. We designed UTA1003 as a novel opioid that acts as a mu (MOP) and kappa (KOP) opioid receptor agonist and a partial agonist for delta (DOP) opioid receptor. In the present study, its antinociceptive effects, as well as its effects on antinociceptive tolerance and motor behaviour, were investigated in male rats. Acute antinociception was measured before (basal) and at different time points after subcutaneous injection of UTA1003 or morphine using the tail flick and hot plate assays. Various motor behavioural activities, including horizontal locomotion, rearing, and turning, were automatically measured in an open-field arena. The antinociceptive and behavioural effects of repeated administration of UTA1003 and morphine were determined over eight days. UTA1003 induced mild antinociceptive effects after acute administration but induced no tolerance after repeated treatment. Importantly, UTA1003 co-treatment with morphine prevented antinociceptive tolerance compared to morphine alone. UTA1003 showed less motor suppression than morphine in both acute and sub-chronic treatment regimens, while it did not affect morphine-induced motor suppression or hyper-excitation. Based on these activities, we speculate that UTA1003 crosses the blood-brain barrier after subcutaneous administration and, therefore, could be developed as a lead molecule to avoid opioid-induced antinociceptive tolerance and motor suppression. Further structural modifications to improve its antinociceptive effects, toxicity profile, and ADME parameters are nevertheless required.
Antioxidant Activity of Pharmaceuticals: Predictive QSAR Modeling for Potential Therapeutic Strategy
Authors: Jeličić Mario-Livio , Kovačić Jelena , Cvetnić Matija , Mornar Ana , Amidžić Klarić Daniela
Published: June 2022

Since oxidative stress has been linked to several pathological conditions and diseases, drugs with additional antioxidant activity can be beneficial in the treatment of these diseases. Therefore, this study takes a new look at the antioxidant activity of frequently prescribed drugs using the HPLC-DPPH method. The antioxidative activity expressed as the TEAC value of 82 drugs was successfully determined and is discussed in this work. Using the obtained values, the QSAR model was developed to predict the TEAC based on the selected molecular descriptors. The results of QSAR modeling showed that four- and seven-variable models had the best potential for TEAC prediction. Looking at the statistical parameters of each model, the four-variable model was superior to seven-variable. The final model showed good predicting power (r = 0.927) considering the selected descriptors, implying that it can be used as a fast and economically acceptable evaluation of antioxidative activity. The advantage of such model is its ability to predict the antioxidative activity of a drug regardless of its structural diversity or therapeutic classification.
Electron Beam Radiation as a Safe Method for the Sterilization of Aceclofenac and Diclofenac—The Usefulness of EPR and 1H-NMR Methods in Determination of Molecular Structure and Dynamics
Authors: Janiaczyk Marcin , Jelińska Anna , Woźniak-Braszak Aneta , Bilski Paweł , Popielarz-Brzezińska Maria , Wachowiak Magdalena , Baranowski Mikołaj , Tomczak Szymon , Ogrodowczyk Magdalena
Published: June 2022

Diclofenac (DC) [2-(2,6-Dichloroanilino)phenyl]acetic acid,) and aceclofenac (AC) 2-[2-[2-[(2,6-dichlorophenyl)amino]phenyl]acetyl]oxyacetic acid in substantia were subjected to ionizing radiation in the form of a beam of high-energy electrons from an accelerator in a standard sterilization dose of 25 kGy and higher radiation doses (50–400 kGy). We characterized non-irradiated and irradiated samples of DC and AC by using the following methods: organoleptic analysis (color, form), spectroscopic (IR, NMR, EPR), chromatographic (HPLC), and others (microscopic analysis, capillary melting point measurement, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)). It was found that a absorbed dose of 50 kGy causes a change in the color of AC and DC from white to cream-like, which deepens with increasing radiation dose. No significant changes in the FT-IR spectra were observed, while no additional peaks were observed in the chromatograms, indicating emerging radio-degradation products (25 kGy). The melting point determined by the capillary method was 153.0 °C for AC and 291.0 °C for DC. After irradiation with the dose of 25 kGy for AC, it did not change, for DC it decreased by 0.5 °C, while for the dose of 400 kGy it was 151.0 °C and 286.0 °C for AC and DC, respectively. Both NSAIDs exhibit high radiation stability for typical sterilization doses of 25–50 kGy and are likely to be sterilized with radiation at a dose of 25 kGy. The influence of irradiation on changes in molecular dynamics and structure has been observed by 1H-NMR and EPR studies. This study aimed to determine the radiation stability of DC and AC by spectrophotometric, thermal and chromatographic methods. A standard dose of irradiation (25 kGy) was used to confirm the possibility of using this dose to obtain a sterile form of both NSAIDs. Higher doses of radiation (50–400 kGy) have been performed to explain the changes in DC and AC after sterilization.
The Preparation of Gen-NH2-MCM-41@SA Nanoparticles and Their Anti-Rotavirus Effects
Authors: Song Lijun , Chen Jiabo , Feng Yuxuan , Zhou Yujing , Li Feng , Dai Guiqin , Yuan Yue , Yi Haosen , Qian Yupei , Yang Siyan , Chen Yang , Zhao Wenchang
Published: June 2022

Genistein (Gen), a kind of natural isoflavone drug monomer with poor water solubility and low oral absorption, was incorporated into oral nanoparticles with a new mesoporous carrier material, NH2-MCM-41, which was synthesized by copolycondensation. When the ratio of Gen to NH2-MCM-41 was 1:0.5, the maximum adsorption capacity of Gen was 13.15%, the maximum drug loading was 12.65%, and the particle size of the whole core–shell structure was in the range of 370 nm–390 nm. The particles were characterized by a Malvern particle size scanning machine, XRD, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and nitrogen adsorption and desorption. Finally, Gen-NH2-MCM-41 was encapsulated by sodium alginate (SA), and the chimerism of this material, denoted as GEN-NH2-MCM-41@SA, was investigated. In vitro release experiments showed that, after 5 h in artificial colon fluid (pH = 8.0), the cumulative release reached 99.56%. In addition, its anti-rotavirus (RV) effect showed that the maximum inhibition rate was 62.24% at a concentration of 30 μM in RV-infected Caco-2 cells, and it significantly reduced the diarrhea rate and diarrhea index in an RV-infected-neonatal mice model at a dose of 0.3 mg/g, which was better than the results of Gen. Ultimately, Gen-NH2-MCM-41@SA was successfully prepared, which solves the problems of low solubility and poor absorption and provides an experimental basis for the application of Gen in the clinical treatment of RV infection.
Nitric Oxide-Releasing Platforms for Treating Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: He Mingyue , Wang Deping , Xu Yumei , Jiang Fangying , Zheng Jian , Feng Yanlin , Cao Jimin , Zhou Xin
Published: June 2022

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the first leading cause of death globally. Nitric oxide (NO) is an important signaling molecule that mediates diverse processes in the cardiovascular system, thereby providing a fundamental basis for NO-based therapy of CVD. At present, numerous prodrugs have been developed to release NO in vivo. However, the clinical application of these prodrugs still faces many problems, including the low payloads, burst release, and non-controlled delivery. To address these, various biomaterial-based platforms have been developed as the carriers to deliver NO to the targeted tissues in a controlled and sustained manner. This review aims to summarize recent developments of various therapeutic platforms, engineered to release NO for the treatment of CVD. In addition, two potential strategies to improve the effectiveness of existing NO therapy are also discussed, including the combination of NO-releasing platforms and either hydrogen sulfide-based therapy or stem cell therapy. Hopefully, some NO-releasing platforms may provide important therapeutic benefits for CVD.
Effects of Different Pollination Methods on Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus) Plant Growth Traits and Rapeseed Yields
Authors: Zhang Jianwen , Zhang Songchao , Li Jiqiang , Cai Chen , Gu Wei , Cheng Xiaohui , Wang Haohan , Xue Xinyu
Published: June 2022

Pollination success is essential for hybrid oilseed rape (OSR, Brassica napus) seed production, and the pollination method has some influences on the OSR plant growth traits. In order to explore the roles of different pollination methods, four pollination methods of “unmanned agricultural aerial system” (UAAS), “natural wind + UAAS” (NW+UAAS), “honeybee” (HB), and “no pollinators” (NP) were set in a hybrid OSR field to investigate their effects on OSR plant traits and rapeseed yields in this study. The control check (CK) area with natural wind (NW) pollination was set as a reference for comparison. The experiments were conducted continuously for 20 days during the OSR plant early to full-bloom stage. The results based on the evaluated OSR plants showed that the growth traits and the rapeseed yields exhibited some differences under different pollination methods. The average plant height under NP pollination was maximum, which was 231.52 cm, while the average plant heights under the other pollination methods exhibited nearly no difference. Except for the HB pollination, the average first-branch heights of the evaluated plants all exceeded 100 cm under the other pollination methods. The average once branch quantity of all the evaluated plants under different pollination methods was 5–7. The average number of effective siliques per plant varied greatly. The average quantity of effective siliques in each OSR plant was about 160 under UAAS, NW+UAAS, and NW pollination, about 100 under HB pollination, and only 2.12 under NP pollination. The thousand-rapeseed weight was 7.32 g under HB pollination, which was the highest of all of the pollination areas. In terms of rapeseed yield, the average rapeseed yields per plant were all more than 10 g, except for the one under NP pollination; the yield per hectare was highest under NW+UAAS pollination, reaching 4741.28 kg, and the yield under NP pollination was lowest, which was only 360.39 kg. The research results provide technical support for supplementary pollination in hybrid OSR seed production.
BnKAT2 Positively Regulates the Main Inflorescence Length and Silique Number in Brassica napus by Regulating the Auxin and Cytokinin Signaling Pathways
Authors: Yuan Dashuang , Zhang Yin , Wang Zhen , Qu Cunmin , Zhu Dongming , Wan Huafang , Liang Ying
Published: June 2022

Brassica napus is the dominant oil crop cultivated in China for its high quality and high yield. The length of the main inflorescence and the number of siliques produced are important traits contributing to rapeseed yield. Therefore, studying genes related to main inflorescence and silique number is beneficial to increase rapeseed yield. Herein, we focused on the effects of BnKAT2 on the main inflorescence length and silique number in B. napus. We explored the mechanism of BnKAT2 increasing the effective length of main inflorescence and the number of siliques through bioinformatics analysis, transgenic technology, and transcriptome sequencing analysis. The full BnKAT2(BnaA01g09060D) sequence is 3674 bp, while its open reading frame is 2055 bp, and the encoded protein comprises 684 amino acids. BnKAT2 is predicted to possess two structural domains, namely KHA and CNMP-binding domains. The overexpression of BnKAT2 effectively increased the length of the main inflorescence and the number of siliques in B. napus, as well as in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana. The type-A Arabidopsis response regulator (A-ARR), negative regulators of the cytokinin, are downregulated in the BnKAT2-overexpressing lines. The Aux/IAA, key genes in auxin signaling pathways, are downregulated in the BnKAT2-overexpressing lines. These results indicate that BnKAT2 might regulate the effective length of the main inflorescence and the number of siliques through the auxin and cytokinin signaling pathways. Our study provides a new potential function gene responsible for improvement of main inflorescence length and silique number, as well as a candidate gene for developing markers used in MAS (marker-assisted selection) breeding to improve rapeseed yield.
Physiological Adaptation and Plant Distribution along a Steep Hydrological Gradient
Authors: Sand-Jensen Kaj , Borum Jens , Møller Claus Lindskov , Baastrup-Spohr Lars
Published: June 2022

Plant species often separate strongly along steep environmental gradients. Our objective was to study how coupling between plant physiology and environmental conditions shapes vegetation characteristics along a distinct hydrological gradient. We therefore investigated species photosynthesis in air and under water within a limited area from dry-as-dust to complete submergence in a nutrient-poor limestone habitat on Öland’s Alvar, Sweden. We found structural and physiological adaptations of species to endure water limitation at the dry end (e.g., moss cushions and CAM-metabolism) and diffusive carbon limitation (e.g., bicarbonate use) at the submerged end of the gradient. As anticipated, mean photosynthesis in air increased 18-fold from the species-poor assembly of cushion-mosses and Sedum CAM-species on mm-thin limestone pavements to the species-rich assembly of C-3 terrestrial plants in deeper and wetter soils. A GLM-model indicated that 90% of the variation in species richness could be explained by a positive effect of soil depth, a negative effect of the duration of water cover and their interaction. In water, mean photosynthesis was highest among aquatic species, low among Sedum species and cushion mosses, and negligible among C-3 terrestrial plants. While aquatic species dried out in air, drought-resistant small species were probably competitively excluded from the more suitable terrestrial habitats on deeper soils with moderate flooding by taller species of high photosynthetic capability. In conclusion, the clear distribution of species along the steep hydrological gradient reflects distinct structural and physiological adaptations, environmental filtering and interspecific competition.
Root-Zone Heat Priming Effects on Maximum Quantum Efficiency of PSII, Productivity, Root Morphology and Nutritional Quality of Two Aeroponically Grown Leafy Greens in a Tropical Greenhouse
Authors: He Jie , Tan Cassander , Qin Lin
Published: June 2022

This study investigated the effects of root zone (RZ) heat priming on Eruca sativa (cv. Arugula) and Lactuca sativa (cv. Canasta) in a tropical greenhouse by exposing them to three different RZ temperatures (RZTs). For the first group, plants were grown at 25 °C-RZT for 36 days. The second group of plants was grown at 25 °C-RZT for 10 days before transferring to 38 °C-RZT for 10 days and then to 42 °C-RZT for another 16 days (primed). For the third group, plants were grown at 25 °C-RZT for 20 days and for the last 16 days were transferred to 42 °C-RZT (non-primed). RZ heat priming did not affect the leaf expansion of Arugula while the leaf expansion was slower in RZ heat primed Canasta compared to 25 °C-RZT plants. After transferring to 42 °C-RZT in the later stage, RZ heat primed Arugula had similar productivity but a larger root system with higher nutritional quality at harvest and during postharvest storage compared to those of 25 °C-RZT plants. After subjection to 42 °C-RZT, although RZ heat priming enhanced its nutritional quality, the productivity of Canasta was compromised. The results of this study suggest that it is feasible to enhance productivity and nutritional quality of leafy greens at lower production cost through RZT management.
Effect of Irrigation and Fertilizer Management on Rice Yield and Nitrogen Loss: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Qiu Haonan , Yang Shihong , Jiang Zewei , Xu Yi , Jiao Xiyun
Published: June 2022

Irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer application are two important factors affecting yield and nitrogen loss in rice fields; however, the interaction effects of different irrigation schedules and combined management of nitrogen fertilizer application on yield and nitrogen loss in rice fields remain unknown. Therefore, we collected 327 sets of data on rice yield and 437 sets of data on nitrogen loss in rice fields from 2000 to 2021 and investigated the effects of different water-saving irrigation schedules, nitrogen application levels, and water–nitrogen couplings on rice yield, nitrogen use efficiency, and nitrogen loss (N2O emissions, nitrogen runoff, nitrogen leaching, and ammonia volatilization) by meta-analysis using conventional flooding irrigation and no nitrogen treatment as controls. The results showed that alternate wet and dry irrigation and controlled irrigation had increasing effects on rice yield. Alternate wet and dry irrigation had a significant yield-increasing effect (average 2.57% increase) and dry cultivation significantly reduced rice yield with an average 21.25% yield reduction. Water-saving irrigation reduces nitrogen runoff and leaching losses from rice fields but increases N2O emissions, and alternate wet and dry irrigation has a significant effect on increasing N2O emissions, with an average increase of 67.77%. Most water-saving irrigation can increase nitrogen use efficiency. Among water-saving irrigation methods, the effect of controlled irrigation on increasing nitrogen use efficiency is 1.06%. Rice yield and nitrogen use efficiency both showed a trend of increasing then decreasing with nitrogen fertilizer application, and nitrogen loss gradually increased with the amount of nitrogen fertilizer input. Water–nitrogen coupling management can significantly reduce nitrogen loss in rice fields while saving water and increasing yield. Based on the analysis of the data in this study, when the irrigation amount was 300~350 mm and the nitrogen application amount was 200~250 kg/ha, the rice yield and nitrogen fertilizer use efficiency were at a high level, which corresponded to the irrigation schedule of controlled irrigation or alternating wet and dry irrigation in the literature. However, different rice-growing areas are affected by rainfall and land capability, etc. Further optimization and correction of the adapted water and fertilizer management system for paddy fields are needed. The optimal water–nitrogen pattern of this study can achieve high rice yield and reduce nitrogen loss.
Self-Healing Chitosan Hydrogels: Preparation and Rheological Characterization
Authors: Craciun Anda Mihaela , Morariu Simona , Marin Luminita
Published: June 2022

The paper aims at the preparation of chitosan self-healing hydrogels, designed as carriers for local drug delivery by parenteral administration. To this aim, 30 hydrogels were prepared using chitosan and pyridoxal 5-phosphate (P5P), the active form of vitamin B6 as precursors, by varying the ratio of glucosamine units and aldehyde on the one hand and the water content on the other hand. The driving forces of hydrogelation were investigated by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction, and polarized light microscopy (POM) measurements. NMR technique was also used to investigate the stability of hydrogels over time, and their morphological particularities were assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Degradability of the hydrogels was studied in media of four different pH, and preliminary self-healing ability was visually established by injection through a syringe needle. In-depth rheological investigation was conducted in order to monitor the storage and loss moduli, linear viscoelastic regime, and structural recovery capacity. It was concluded that chitosan crosslinking with pyridoxal 5-phosphate is a suitable route to reach self-healing hydrogels with a good balance of mechanical properties/structural recovery, good stability over time, and degradability controlled by pH.