bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation Process Optimization and Performance Characterization of Feed Plant Essential Oil Microcapsules
Authors: Zhao Qian , Gao Yong-Sheng , Jin Fei , Zhu Li-Yun
Published: October 2022

The exploration of safe antibiotic substitutes is one of the research hotspots in animal husbandry. Adding suitable plant essential oils into feed could improve the growth performance and immune capacity of animals. In order to make plant essential oil play a better role in feed application, sodium alginate and chitosan were used as the wall materials, and blended plant essential oils (BEO) as the core material to prepare BEO microcapsules by the sharp-hole condensation method. On the basis of single-factor experiments, the optimal preparation conditions for BEO microcapsules were obtained by response surface experiments. The physicochemical properties were characterized and analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and field scanning electron microscope (FSEM). Meanwhile, the release mechanism was studied by simulating a gastrointestinal sustained-release experiment. The results showed that under the optimal preparation conditions, the encapsulation efficiency of BEO microcapsules could reach 80.33 ± 2.35%. FTIR and SEM analysis displayed that the microcapsules obtained had uniform color and size and a complete and compact structure. In vitro study indicated that the release amount of BEO microcapsules in the simulated intestinal fluid is higher than that in the simulated intestinal fluid, which was consistent with animal digestive and absorptive characteristics.
Copper(II) Complex Containing 4-Fluorophenoxyacetic Acid Hydrazide and 1,10-Phenanthroline: A Prostate Cancer Cell-Selective and Low-Toxic Copper(II) Compound
Authors: Bontempo Nayara Júnia de Souza , Paixão Drielly Aparecida , Lima Paula Marynella Alves Pereira , Barros Deysse Carla Tolentino , Borges Dayanne Silva , Orsolin Priscila Capelari , Martins Isabella Castro , Machado Pedro Henrique Alves , Lino Ricardo Campos , Souza Tiago Rodrigues de , Ramos Luana Munique Sousa , Teixeira Samuel Cota , Siqueira Raoni Pais , Goulart Filho Luiz Ricardo , Guerra Wendell , Oliveira Júnior Robson José de , Araújo Thaise Gonçalves de
Published: October 2022

Prostate Cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men worldwide. The treatment of advanced cases is based on chemotherapy, which lacks specificity and efficacy, due to severe side effects and resistance to the traditional drugs. Copper complexes have shown antitumoral efficacy and low toxicity, being considered a promising class of metal-based drugs for the treatment of malignant neoplasms. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the cellular effects of a copper(II) complex with 4-fluorophenoxyacetic acid hydrazide and 1,10-phenanthroline (1) on PCa cell lines, as well as the mutagenic/recombinogenic and anticarcinogenic potential of 1 in Drosophila melanogaster. PNT-2 (non-tumorigenic), LNCaP (hormone-responsive PCa) and PC-3 (androgen-independent PCa) cells were cultured, and cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay. The expression levels of the proliferation markers Ki-67 and Cyclin D1 were analyzed by flow cytometry. Furthermore, the Somatic Mutation and Recombination Test (SMART) and the Epithelial Tumor Test (ETT) were performed. Complex 1 was selective to LNCaP cells, significantly reducing Ki-67 and Cyclin D1 expression levels. Sub-toxic concentrations of complex 1 were defined by the toxicity test in D. melanogaster, and no mutagenic/recombinogenic/carcinogenic effects were observed. Anticarcinogenic potential was observed in D. melanogaster, suggesting modulating activity of the complex 1 against Doxorubicin, a drug used as control by its carcinogenic properties. Therefore, complex 1 is a possible starting point for the development of new antitumor agents for the treatment of PCa.
Reactions of Trifluorotriacetic Acid Lactone and Hexafluorodehydroacetic Acid with Amines: Synthesis of Trifluoromethylated 4-Pyridones and Aminoenones
Authors: Fedin Vladislav V. , Usachev Sergey A. , Obydennov Dmitrii L. , Sosnovskikh Vyacheslav Y.
Published: October 2022

Dehydroacetic acid and triacetic acid lactone are known to be versatile substrates for the synthesis of a variety of azaheterocycles. However, their fluorinated analogs were poorly described in the literature. In the present work, we have investigated reactions of trifluorotriacetic acid lactone and hexafluorodehydroacetic acid with primary amines, phenylenediamine, and phenylhydrazine. While hexafluorodehydroacetic acid reacted the same way as non-fluorinated analog giving 2,6-bis(trifluoromethyl)-4-pyridones, trifluorotriacetic acid lactone had different regioselectivity of nucleophilic attack compared to the parent structure, and corresponding 3-amino-6,6,6-trifluoro-5-oxohex-3-eneamides were formed as the products. In the case of binucleophiles, further cyclization took place, forming corresponding benzodiazepine and pyrazoles. The obtained 2,6-bis(trifluoromethyl)-4-pyridones were able to react with active methylene compounds giving fluorinated merocyanine dyes.
Antiglioma Natural Products from the Marine-Associated Fungus Penicillium sp. ZZ1750
Authors: Yong Kuo , Kaleem Sidra , Ma Mingzhu , Lian Xiaoyuan , Zhang Zhizhen
Published: October 2022

Marine-derived Penicillium fungi are one of the most important sources for the discovery of new bioactive natural products. This study characterized the isolation, structures, and antiglioma activities of twelve compounds, including three novel ones—penipyridinone B (1), 11S-(−)-penilloid A (2), and 11R,14E-(+)-penilloid A (3)—from the marine fungus Penicillium sp. ZZ1750. The structures of the novel compounds were determined via extensive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic analyses, high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (HRESIMS) data, Mosher’s method, optical rotation (OR) calculations, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. Penipyridinone B represents the first example of its structural type and showed potent antiglioma activity, with IC50 values of 2.45 μM for U87MG cells and 11.40 μM for U251 cells. The known compounds of questiomycin A (9) and xanthocillin X (10) also showed antiproliferative activity against both U87MG and U251 cells, with IC50 values of 13.65 μM to 22.56 μM. The antiglioma activity of questiomycin A and xanthocillin X may be related to the promotion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, the reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and the enhancement of caspase-3 enzyme activity.
Phytochemistry, Bioactivities of Metabolites, and Traditional Uses of Fagopyrum tataricum
Authors: Kreft Ivan , Germ Mateja , Golob Aleksandra , Vombergar Blanka , Vollmannová Alena , Kreft Samo , Luthar Zlata
Published: October 2022

In Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum), the edible parts are mainly grain and sprouts. Tartary buckwheat contains protecting substances, which make it possible for plants to survive on high altitudes and under strong natural ultraviolet radiation. The diversity and high content of phenolic substances are important for Tartary buckwheat to grow and reproduce under unfriendly environmental effects, diseases, and grazing. These substances are mainly flavonoids (rutin, quercetin, quercitrin, vitexin, catechin, epicatechin and epicatechin gallate), phenolic acids, fagopyrins, and emodin. Synthesis of protecting substances depends on genetic layout and on the environmental conditions, mainly UV radiation and temperature. Flavonoids and their glycosides are among Tartary buckwheat plants bioactive metabolites. Flavonoids are compounds of special interest due to their antioxidant properties and potential in preventing tiredness, diabetes mellitus, oxidative stress, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. During the processing and production of food items, Tartary buckwheat metabolites are subjected to molecular transformations. The main Tartary buckwheat traditional food products are bread, groats, and sprouts.
Effect of Cu Intercalation Layer on the Enhancement of Spin-to-Charge Conversion in Py/Cu/Bi2Se3
Authors: Su Shu Hsuan , Chong Cheong-Wei , Lee Jung-Chuan , Chen Yi-Chun , Marchenkov Vyacheslav Viktorovich , Huang Jung-Chun Andrew
Published: October 2022

The spin-to-charge conversion in Permalloy (Py)/Cu/Bi2Se3 is tunable by changing the Cu layer thickness. The conversion rate was studied using the spin pumping technique. The inverse Edelstein effect (IEE) length λIEE is found to increase up to ~2.7 nm when a 7 nm Cu layer is introduced. Interestingly, the maximized λIEE is obtained when the effective spin-mixing conductance (and thus Js) is decreased due to Cu insertion. The monotonic increase in λIEE with decreasing Js suggests that the IEE relaxation time (τ) is enhanced due to the additional tunnelling barrier (Cu layer) that limits the interfacial transmission rate. The results demonstrate the importance of interface engineering in the magnetic heterostructure of Py/topological insulators (TIs), the key factor in optimizing spin-to-charge conversion efficiency.
Assessment of New Strategies to Improve the Performance of Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Wang Lin , Liu Hang , Li Xinsong , Yao Chen
Published: October 2022

In this research, we constructed a novel engineered tripeptide modified with lipoic acid (LA-RWR), followed by crosslinking of lipoic acid to form nanoparticles (c-LA-RWR). LA-RWR was also modified with phenethylamine (PEA) on the C-terminus to achieve better antibacterial activities. The as-prepared c-LA-RWR and LA-RWR-PEA were effective against E.coli, S.aureus, C.albicans, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, with minimum inhibitory concentration values ranging from 2 to 16 µg/mL, which greatly improved the performance of LA-RWR. Similar antibacterial activities were demonstrated in anti-biofilm activity; there was no matter on the biofilm that was already established or forming. Moreover, c-LA-RWR/LA-RWR-PEA remarkably induced cytoplasmic membrane depolarization and outer membrane permeabilization, resulting in varying degrees of damage to the bacterial morphology, which were consistent with the results obtained via electron microscopy. Thus, our results show that c-LA-RWR/LA-RWR-PEA exhibited excellent efficacy against a variety of microorganisms with good biosafety, providing new strategies by which to improve the performance of antimicrobial peptides.
Effects of L-Citrulline Supplementation on Endothelial Function and Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Maharaj Arun , Fischer Stephen M. , Dillon Katherine N. , Kang Yejin , Martinez Mauricio A. , Figueroa Arturo
Published: October 2022

Aging and menopause are associated with decreased nitric oxide bioavailability due to reduced L-arginine (L-ARG) levels contributing to endothelial dysfunction (ED). ED precedes arterial stiffness and hypertension development, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This study investigated the effects of L-citrulline (L-CIT) on endothelial function, aortic stiffness, and resting brachial and aortic blood pressures (BP) in hypertensive postmenopausal women. Twenty-five postmenopausal women were randomized to 4 weeks of L-CIT (10 g) or placebo (PL). Serum L-ARG, brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD), aortic stiffness (carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, cfPWV), and resting brachial and aortic BP were assessed at 0 and 4 weeks. L-CIT supplementation increased L-ARG levels (Δ13 ± 2 vs. Δ−2 ± 2 µmol/L, p < 0.01) and FMD (Δ1.4 ± 2.0% vs. Δ−0.5 ± 1.7%, p = 0.03) compared to PL. Resting aortic diastolic BP (Δ−2 ± 4 vs. Δ2 ± 5 mmHg, p = 0.01) and mean arterial pressure (Δ−2 ± 4 vs. Δ2 ± 6 mmHg, p = 0.04) were significantly decreased after 4 weeks of L-CIT compared to PL. Although not statistically significant (p = 0.07), cfPWV decreased after L-CIT supplementation by ~0.66 m/s. These findings suggest that L-CIT supplementation improves endothelial function and aortic BP via increased L-ARG availability.
Does Single or Combined Caffeine and Taurine Supplementation Improve Athletic and Cognitive Performance without Affecting Fatigue Level in Elite Boxers? A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Ozan Murat , Buzdagli Yusuf , Eyipinar Cemre Didem , Baygutalp Nurcan Kılıç , Yüce Neslihan , Oget Furkan , Kan Emirhan , Baygutalp Fatih
Published: October 2022

In previous studies, the effect of single or combined intake of caffeine (CAF) and taurine (TAU) on exercise performance was investigated. However, the potential synergistic effect on physical and cognitive performance after fatigue induced by anaerobic exercise is unknown. The effects of single and combination CAF and TAU supplementation on the Wingate test in elite male boxers and to evaluate balance, agility and cognitive performance after fatigue are being investigated for the first time in this study. Twenty elite male boxers 22.14 ± 1.42 years old were divided into four groups in this double-blind, randomized crossover study: CAF (6 mg/kg of caffeine), TAU (3 g single dose of taurine), CAF*TAU (co-ingestion of 3 g single dose of taurine and 6 mg/kg of caffeine) and PLA (300 mg maltodextrin). The findings are as follows: co-ingestion of CAF*TAU, improved peak (W/kg), average (W), minimum (W) power, time to reach (s), and RPE performances compared to the PLA group significantly (p < 0.05). Similarly, it was determined that a single dose of TAU, created a significant difference (p < 0.05) in peak power (W/kg), and average and minimum power (W) values compared to the CAF group. According to the balance and agility tests performed after the Wingate test, co-ingestion of CAF*TAU revealed a significant difference (p < 0.05) compared to the PLA group. In terms of cognitive performance, co-ingestion of CAF*TAU significantly improved the neutral reaction time (ms) compared to the TAU, CAF and PLA groups. As a result, elite male boxers performed better in terms of agility, balance and cognitive function when they consumed a combination of 6 mg/kg CAF and 3 g TAU. It has been determined that the combined use of these supplements is more effective than their single use.
Proteomics Characterization of Food-Derived Bioactive Peptides with Anti-Allergic and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Authors: Abril Ana G. , Pazos Manuel , Villa Tomás G. , Calo-Mata Pilar , Barros-Velázquez Jorge , Carrera Mónica
Published: October 2022

Bioactive peptides are found in foods and dietary supplements and are responsible for health benefits with applications in human and animal medicine. The health benefits include antihypertensive, antimicrobial, antithrombotic, immunomodulatory, opioid, antioxidant, anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory functions. Bioactive peptides can be obtained by microbial action, mainly by the gastrointestinal microbiota from proteins present in food, originating from either vegetable or animal matter or by the action of different gastrointestinal proteases. Proteomics can play an important role in the identification of bioactive peptides. High-resolution mass spectrometry is the principal technique used to detect and identify different types of analytes present in complex mixtures, even when available at low concentrations. Moreover, proteomics may provide the characterization of epitopes to develop new food allergy vaccines and the use of immunomodulating peptides to induce oral tolerance toward offending food allergens or even to prevent allergic sensitization. In addition, food-derived bioactive peptides have been investigated for their anti-inflammatory properties to provide safer alternatives to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). All these bioactive peptides can be a potential source of novel drugs and ingredients in food and pharmaceuticals. The following review is focused on food-derived bioactive peptides with antiallergic and anti-inflammatory properties and summarizes the new insights into the use of proteomics for their identification and quantification.
A Health Care Professional Delivered Low Carbohydrate Diet Program Reduces Body Weight, Haemoglobin A1c, Diabetes Medication Use and Cardiovascular Risk Markers—A Single-Arm Intervention Analysis
Authors: Brinkworth Grant D. , Wycherley Thomas P. , Taylor Pennie J. , Thompson Campbell H.
Published: October 2022

This study examined the effectiveness of a health care professional delivered low-carbohydrate diet program (Diversa Health Program) aiming to improve obesity/type-2-diabetes management for people living in Australia. 511 adults (Age:57.1 ± 13.7 [SD] yrs) who participated between January 2017–August 2021 for ≥30 days with pre-post data collected for ≥1 key outcome variable (body weight and HbA1c) were included in the analysis. Average participation duration was 218 ± 207 days with 5.4 ± 3.9 reported consultation visits. Body weight reduced from 92.3 ± 23.0 to 86.3 ± 21.1 kg (n = 506, p < 0.001). Weight loss was 0.9 ± 2.8 kg (1.3%), 4.5 ± 4.3 kg (5.7%) and 7.9 ± 7.2 kg (7.5%), respectively, for those with a classification of normal weight (n = 67), overweight (n = 122) and obese (n = 307) at commencement. HbA1c reduced from 6.0 ± 1.2 to 5.6 ± 0.7% (n = 212, p < 0.001). For members with a commencing HbA1c of <5.7% (n = 110), 5.7–6.4% (n = 55), and ≥6.5% (n = 48), HbA1c reduced −0.1 ± 0.2%, −0.3 ± 0.3%, and −1.4 ± 1.3%, respectively. For members with a commencing HbA1c ≥6.5%, 90% experienced a HbA1c reduction and 54% achieved a final HbA1c < 6.5%. With inclusion and exclusion of metformin, respectively, 124 and 82 diabetes medications were prescribed to 63 and 42 members that reduced to 82 and 35 medications prescribed to 51 and 26 members at final visit. A health care professional delivered low-carbohydrate diet program can facilitate weight loss and improve glycaemic control with greatest improvements and clinical relevance in individuals with worse baseline parameters.
Association between Omega-3 Index and Hyperglycemia Depending on Body Mass Index among Adults in the United States
Authors: Jo Sunyoung , Harris William S. , Tintle Nathan L. , Park Yongsoon
Published: October 2022

There is inconsistency regarding the association between long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n3) and the risk of type 2 diabetes. The present study aimed to investigate the association between the Omega-3 Index (erythrocyte EPA + DHA) and glycemic status as a function of body mass index (BMI). Cross-sectional data from routine clinical laboratory testing with a total of 100,572 people aged over 18 years and BMI ≥ 18.5 kg/m2 were included. Of the patients, 10% were hyperglycemic (fasting plasma glucose levels ≥ 126 mg/dL) and 24.7% were of normal weight, 35.0% were overweight, and 40.3% were obese. Odds ratios (ORs) of being hyperglycemic were inversely associated with the Omega-3 Index, but weakened as BMI increased. Thus, ORs (95% CI) comparing quintile 5 with quintile 1 were 0.54 (0.44–0.66) in the normal weight group, 0.70 (0.61–0.79) in the overweight group, and 0.74 (0.67–0.81) in the obese group. Similar patterns were seen for EPA and DHA separately. The present study suggested that a low Omega-3 Index is associated with a greater risk of disordered glucose metabolism and this is independent of BMI.
Genetic Determinants of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentrations and Their Relevance to Public Health
Authors: Hyppönen Elina , Vimaleswaran Karani S. , Zhou Ang
Published: October 2022

Twin studies suggest a considerable genetic contribution to the variability in 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations, reporting heritability estimates up to 80% in some studies. While genome-wide association studies (GWAS) suggest notably lower rates (13–16%), they have identified many independent variants that associate with serum 25(OH)D concentrations. These discoveries have provided some novel insight into the metabolic pathway, and in this review we outline findings from GWAS studies to date with a particular focus on 35 variants which have provided replicating evidence for an association with 25(OH)D across independent large-scale analyses. Some of the 25(OH)D associating variants are linked directly to the vitamin D metabolic pathway, while others may reflect differences in storage capacity, lipid metabolism, and pathways reflecting skin properties. By constructing a genetic score including these 25(OH)D associated variants we show that genetic differences in 25(OH)D concentrations persist across the seasons, and the odds of having low concentrations (<50 nmol/L) are about halved for individuals in the highest 20% of vitamin D genetic score compared to the lowest quintile, an impact which may have notable influences on retaining adequate levels. We also discuss recent studies on personalized approaches to vitamin D supplementation and show how Mendelian randomization studies can help inform public health strategies to reduce adverse health impacts of vitamin D deficiency.
The Structural Characterization and Immunomodulatory Activity of Polysaccharides from Pleurotus abieticola Fruiting Bodies
Authors: Pan Meichen , Kong Fange , Xing Lei , Yao Lan , Li Yu , Liu Yang , Li Changtian , Li Lanzhou
Published: October 2022

Polysaccharides obtained from mushrooms have been reported to possess immunomodulatory properties. In this study, a water-soluble polysaccharide was purified from the fruiting bodies of Pleurotus abieticola, entitled PAPS1. After its composition and structural analysis, the immunomodulatory activity was investigated in immunosuppressed mice induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX) at a dosage of 70 mg/kg by intraperitoneal injection for 7 days. After 28 days of intragastric administration, PAPS1 alleviated cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced histopathological damage and increased the expressions of splenic CD4, CD8, CD56 and IgM in the serums of immunosuppressed mice. PAPS1 suppressed the oxidative stress indicated by preventing the increases in ROS and MDA levels. According to the intestinal microflora analysis, PAPS1 regulated 11 bacteria at the gene level, including Helicobacter and Paraprevotella, which are related to immunity and oxidative capacity. Compared with CTX-treated mice, significant increases in immune-related cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6 and IL-12 in the serums of mice treated with PAPS1, were observed. Finally, PAPS1 can strongly increase the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream proteins. In conclusion, PAPS1-boosted immunity may be related to its suppression on oxidative stress via enhancing the activity of Nrf2 signaling. Thus, PAPS1 can be investigated as a candidate for immunomodulatory therapy.
The Association between Circulating Branched Chain Amino Acids and the Temporal Risk of Developing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ramzan Imran , Ardavani Arash , Vanweert Froukje , Mellett Aisling , Atherton Philip J. , Idris Iskandar
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Recent studies have concluded that elevated circulating branched chain amino acids (BCAA) are associated with the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity. However, the development of this association over time and the quantification of the strength of this association for individual BCAAs prior to T2DM diagnosis remains unexplored. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using the Healthcare Databases Advance Search (HDAS) via the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) website. The data sources included EMBASE, MEDLINE and PubMed for all papers from inception until November 2021. Nine studies were identified in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Stratification was based on follow-up times (0–6, 6–12 and 12 or more years) and controlling of body mass index (BMI) through the specific assessment of overweight cohorts was also undertaken. Results: The meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant positive association between BCAA concentrations and the development of T2DM, with valine OR = 2.08 (95% CI = 2.04–2.12, p < 0.00001), leucine OR = 2.25 (95% CI = 1.76–2.87, p < 0.00001) and isoleucine OR = 2.12, 95% CI = 2.00–2.25, p < 0.00001. In addition, we demonstrated a positive consistent temporal association between circulating BCAA levels and the risk of developing T2DM with differentials in the respective follow-up times of 0–6 years, 6–12 years and ≥12 years follow-up for valine (OR = 2.08, 1.86 and 2.14, p < 0.05 each), leucine (OR = 2.10, 2.25 and 2.16, p < 0.05 each) and isoleucine (OR = 2.12, 1.90 and 2.16, p < 0.05 each) demonstrated. Conclusion: Plasma BCAA concentrations are associated with T2DM incidence across all temporal subgroups. We suggest the potential utility of BCAAs as an early biomarker for T2DM irrespective of follow-up time.
Inhibition Effects of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis and Its Derivatives against Atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- Mice through Anti-Inflammatory Response
Authors: Yang Yougui , Ding Xin , Chen Fuzhong , Wu Xiaomin , Chen Yuying , Zhang Qiang , Cao Jun , Wang Junhong , Dai Yang
Published: October 2022

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a dominant and growing cause of death and disability worldwide that involves inflammation from its inception to the emergence of complications. Studies have demonstrated that intervention with helminth infections or derived products could modulate the host immune response and effectively prevent or mitigate the onset and progression of inflammation-related diseases. Therefore, to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of atherosclerosis, we intervened in ApoE-/- mice maintained on a high-fat diet with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis (N. brasiliensis) infection and immunized with its derived products. We found that N. brasiliensis infection and its derived proteins had suitable protective effects both in the initial and progressive stages of atherosclerosis, effectively reducing aortic arch plaque areas and liver lipid contents and downregulating serum LDL levels, which may be associated with the significant upregulation of serum anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and IL-4) and the down-regulation of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IFN-γ) in the serum. In conclusion, these data highlighted the effective regulatory role of N. brasiliensis and its derived proteins in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. This could provide a promising new avenue for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.
[177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 (PluvictoTM): The First FDA-Approved Radiotherapeutical for Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Hennrich Ute , Eder Matthias
Published: October 2022

In March 2022, [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 (PluvictoTM) was approved by the FDA for the treatment of prostate cancer patients. Until now, the approval has been limited to patients with PSMA-positive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who have previously received other therapy options (such as inhibition of the androgen receptor pathway and taxane-based chemotherapy). [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617, which combines a PSMA-specific peptidomimetic with a therapeutical radionuclide, is used in a radioligand therapy that selectively delivers ionizing radiation to tumor cells, causing their death, while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. In numerous clinical trials, the efficacy of [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 was demonstrated.
Modulation of Macrophages Using Nanoformulations with Curcumin to Treat Inflammatory Diseases: A Concise Review
Authors: Sun Huxiao , Zhan Mengsi , Mignani Serge , Shcharbin Dzmitry , Majoral Jean-Pierre , Rodrigues João , Shi Xiangyang , Shen Mingwu
Published: October 2022

Curcumin (Cur), a traditional Chinese medicine extracted from natural plant rhizomes, has become a candidate drug for the treatment of diseases due to its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities. However, the poor water solubility and low bioavailability of Cur limit its therapeutic effects for clinical applications. A variety of nanocarriers have been successfully developed to improve the water solubility, in vivo distribution, and pharmacokinetics of Cur, as well as to enhance the ability of Cur to polarize macrophages and relieve macrophage oxidative stress or anti-apoptosis, thus accelerating the therapeutic effects of Cur on inflammatory diseases. Herein, we review the design and development of diverse Cur nanoformulations in recent years and introduce the biomedical applications and potential therapeutic mechanisms of Cur nanoformulations in common inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis, neurodegenerative diseases, respiratory diseases, and ulcerative colitis, by regulating macrophage behaviors. Finally, the perspectives of the design and preparation of future nanocarriers aimed at efficiently exerting the biological activity of Cur are briefly discussed.
Using Copper-Doped Mesoporous Bioactive Glass Nanospheres to Impart Anti-Bacterial Properties to Dental Composites
Authors: Munir Arooj , Marovic Danijela , Nogueira Liebert Parreiras , Simm Roger , Naemi Ali-Oddin , Landrø Sander Marius , Helgerud Magnus , Zheng Kai , Par Matej , Tauböck Tobias T. , Attin Thomas , Tarle Zrinka , Boccaccini Aldo R. , Haugen Håvard J.
Published: October 2022

Experimental dental resin composites containing copper-doped mesoporous bioactive glass nanospheres (Cu-MBGN) were developed to impart anti-bacterial properties. Increasing amounts of Cu-MBGN (0, 1, 5 and 10 wt%) were added to the BisGMA/TEGDMA resin matrix containing micro- and nano-fillers of inert glass, keeping the resin/filler ratio constant. Surface micromorphology and elemental analysis were performed to evaluate the homogeneous distribution of filler particles. The study investigated the effects of Cu-MBGN on the degree of conversion, polymerization shrinkage, porosity, ion release and anti-bacterial activity on S. mutans and A. naeslundii. Experimental materials containing Cu-MBGN showed a dose-dependent Cu release with an initial burst and a further increase after 28 days. The composite containing 10% Cu-MBGN had the best anti-bacterial effect on S. mutans, as evidenced by the lowest adherence of free-floating bacteria and biofilm formation. In contrast, the 45S5-containing materials had the highest S. mutans adherence. Ca release was highest in the bioactive control containing 15% 45S5, which correlated with the highest number of open porosities on the surface. Polymerization shrinkage was similar for all tested materials, ranging from 3.8 to 4.2%, while the degree of conversion was lower for Cu-MBGN materials. Cu-MBGN composites showed better anti-bacterial properties than composites with 45S5 BG.
Joint Cultivation of Allium ursinum and Armoracia rusticana under Foliar Sodium Selenate Supply
Authors: Amagova Zarema , Matsadze Visita , Kavarnakaeva Zulfia , Golubkina Nadezhda , Antoshkina Marina , Sękara Agnieszka , Tallarita Alessio , Caruso Gianluca
Published: October 2022

Despite the high value of ramson (Allium ursinum) in medicine and nutrition, it is not cultivated in open fields due to the need for shading as well as weeding during the early crop stages. Research was carried out in an open field with the aim to improve A. ursinum growth, through its intercropping with Armoracia rusticana (horseradish). In the latter context, with and without sodium selenate application, ramson and horseradish showed reciprocal growth stimulation, as ramson biomass increased by 1.28 times and horseradish root biomass by 1.7 times. The biofortification level of horseradish roots increased from 5.9 to 9.6 times due to joint plant growth under selenium (Se) supply. The opposite phenomenon was recorded for ramson leaves, as the biofortification level decreased from 11.7 in the case of Se supplementation to 6.7 in plants supplied with sodium selenate when jointly cultivated with horseradish. Among the tested antioxidants, the highest increase due to joint cultivation and/or Se supply was recorded for ascorbic acid by 1.69 times in ramson leaves and 1.48 and 1.37 times in horseradish roots and leaves, respectively. All treatments significantly increased the total antioxidant activity (AOA) of horseradish leaves (by 1.33–1.49 times) but not roots. Comparison of the results obtained in field conditions with those obtained earlier for the Se biofortification of ramson in the natural habitat (forest) revealed significantly higher levels of the plant’s antioxidant status under environmental stress (field) and a decrease in the correspondent differences as a consequence of Se biofortification. The estimation of allelopathic beneficial interaction between ramson and horseradish implies the efficiency of ramson growth and production of functional food with high levels of Se (Se–ramson leaves and Se–horseradish roots).
Organic Mulches as an Alternative to Conventional Under-Vine Weed Management in Mediterranean Irrigated Vineyards
Authors: Cabrera-Pérez Carlos , Valencia-Gredilla Francisco , Royo-Esnal Aritz , Recasens Jordi
Published: October 2022

Vineyard growth and grape yield can be significantly reduced by weeds, especially when these are located in the under-vine zone. Traditional weed management consists of recurrent tillage, which is associated with soil erosion and high fuel consumption, or herbicide applications, associated with damage to the environment and human health. In order to find alternative weed management methods, three field trials were carried out in Raimat (Lleida, NE Spain) with the aim of evaluating the suppressive effect of four mulches against weeds. Treatments included (1) straw mulch of Medicago sativa L., (2) straw mulch of Festuca arundinacea (L.) Schreb, (3) straw mulch of Hordeum vulgare L., (4) chopped pine wood mulch of Pinus sylvestris L., (5) mechanical cultivation and (6) herbicide application. The results showed that all mulches were efficient at controlling weeds (<20% of weed coverage) in the first year, compared with the two traditional methods, as long as the percentage of soil covered by mulches was high (>75%). In this way, pine mulch stood out above the straw mulches, as it achieved high soil cover during the three growing seasons of the study (>80%), with weed coverage values under 18%. This, together with the multiple benefits of mulches (improvements in the water balance and increases in soil organic matter, among others), make them a sustainable tool to be considered as an alternative to traditional under-vine weed management in vineyards.
Mesoporous Spherical Silica Filler Prepared from Coal Gasification Fine Slag for Styrene Butadiene Rubber Reinforcement and Promoting Vulcanization
Authors: Xu You , Ai Weidong , Zuo Jing , Yang Wentong , Wei Cundi , Xu Shaonan
Published: October 2022

Coal gasification fine slag (CFS) is a solid contaminant produced by an entrained flow gasifier, which pollutes fields and the air in the long term. CFS is a potential polymer reinforcement filler and has been used in polypropylene and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resins. Coal gasification fine slag mesoporous silica (FS-SiO2) was prepared by acid leaching, calcination, and pH adjustment, with a larger specific surface area and less surface hydroxyl compared to the commercial precipitated silica (P-silica). The cure characteristics, crosslink density, mechanical properties, the morphology of the tensile fractures, dynamic mechanics, and rubber processing of the prepared styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) composites filled with P-silica and FS-SiO2 were analyzed, respectively. The results indicated that FS-SiO2 was dispersed more uniformly in the SBR matrix than P-silica owing to its smaller amount of surface hydroxyl and spherical structure, resulting in a better mechanical performance and wet skid resistance. In particular, the SBR composites with a filler pH of 6.3 exhibited the highest crosslink density and tensile strength, being superior to commercial P-silica. Significantly, the curing time decreased with the increase in the pH of FS-SiO2, which caused the rubber processing to be more efficient. This strategy can reduce the cost of rubber composites and the environmental pollution caused by CFS.
Effect of Organosilicon Self-Assembled Polymeric Nanolayers Formed during Surface Modification by Compositions Based on Organosilanes on the Atmospheric Corrosion of Metals
Authors: Petrunin Maxim , Rybkina Alevtina , Yurasova Tatyana , Maksaeva Liudmila
Published: October 2022

Reducing the risks caused by losses due to the atmospheric corrosion of metal structures has been relevant for many years and is an important scientific and technical task. Previously, for this purpose, the preliminary modification of the surface of structural metals with solutions of compositions, based on both individual organosilanes and their mixtures with amine-containing corrosion inhibitors, was proposed. Such treatment leads to the formation of self-assembled siloxane polymeric/oligomeric nanoscale layers on the metal surface, which are capable of changing the physicochemical properties of the metal surface (namely, by reducing the tendency of the metal to corrosive destruction). In this work, annual atmospheric corrosion tests of samples of steel, copper, zinc, and aluminum without protection, and samples modified with compositions based on organosilanes in an urban atmosphere, were carried out. It was established (by the gravimetric method) that the corrosion rate of unmodified (without protection) metals is as follows: steel—0.0022 mm/year; aluminum—0.0015 mm/year; copper—0.00018 mm/year; and zinc—0.00023 mm/year. Using gravimetry and optical microscopy, it was shown that the preliminary modification of metal surfaces with compositions based on organosilanes led to the inhibition of both uniform and local corrosion of metals. The corrosion rates of samples that were modified with one-component compositions decreased by almost two times. The maximum inhibitory effect for the studied systems was demonstrated by mixed binary modifying compositions: mixtures of vinyl- and aminosilane, vinylsilane, and benzotriazole. The corrosion rate decreased for all the studied metals. The minimum effect was observed on zinc (2.5 times) and the maximum inhibition of the corrosion rate was obtained on copper (5.1 times). The mechanism of corrosion inhibition by layers formed as a result of surface modification with two-component mixtures was considered.
Study of a High-Temperature and High-Density Water-Based Drilling Fluid System Based on Non-sulfonated Plant Polymers
Authors: Xu Jiang , You Fu-Chang , Zhou Shu-Sheng
Published: October 2022

The environment-friendly water-based drilling fluid system developed for the petroleum development industry cannot successfully withstand temperatures up to 180 °C, and most high temperature-resistant additives with sulfonic acid groups that have been successfully applied to water-based drilling fluid are not good for environmental protection. In order to solve the above technical problems, a non-sulfonated filtrate reducer and viscosity reducer with resistance to high temperature were prepared by using humic acid, lignin and a multifunctional monomer as raw materials. In laboratory experiments, the molecular weights of the FLO-H filtrate reducer and the VR-H viscosity reducer were 5.45 × 105 g/mol and 8.51 × 103 g/mol, respectively, and all of them showed good high-temperature resistance. The API filtration loss of the bentonite-base slurry with 3.0 wt% FLO-H was only 6.2 mL, which indicated that FLO-H had a prominent reduction in filtration loss after aging at high temperature. When the dosage of VR-H was 1.0 wt%, the plastic viscosity of the water-based drilling fluid after aging at 200 °C decreased from 71 mPa·s to 55 mPa·s, which provided excellent dispersion and dilution. The high-temperature and high-density water-based drilling fluid containing the FLO-H filtrate reducer and the VR-H viscosity reducer had good suspension stability and low filtration performance at the high temperature of 200 °C, which can meet the requirements of high-temperature deep well drilling.
Structural Breakdown of Collagen Type I Elastin Blend Polymerization
Authors: Wilharm Nils , Fischer Tony , Hayn Alexander , Mayr Stefan G.
Published: October 2022

Biopolymer blends are advantageous materials with novel properties that may show performances way beyond their individual constituents. Collagen elastin hybrid gels are a new representative of such materials as they employ elastin’s thermo switching behavior in the physiological temperature regime. Although recent studies highlight the potential applications of such systems, little is known about the interaction of collagen and elastin fibers during polymerization. In fact, the final network structure is predetermined in the early and mostly arbitrary association of the fibers. We investigated type I collagen polymerized with bovine neck ligament elastin with up to 33.3 weight percent elastin and showed, by using a plate reader, zeta potential and laser scanning microscopy (LSM) experiments, that elastin fibers bind in a lateral manner to collagen fibers. Our plate reader experiments revealed an elastin concentration-dependent increase in the polymerization rate, although the rate increase was greatest at intermediate elastin concentrations. As elastin does not significantly change the structural metrics pore size, fiber thickness or 2D anisotropy of the final gel, we are confident to conclude that elastin is incorporated homogeneously into the collagen fibers.
Polymorphism and Perfection in Crystallization of Hard Sphere Polymers
Authors: Herranz Miguel , Foteinopoulou Katerina , Karayiannis Nikos Ch. , Laso Manuel
Published: October 2022

We present results on polymorphism and perfection, as observed in the spontaneous crystallization of freely jointed polymers of hard spheres, obtained in an unprecedentedly long Monte Carlo (MC) simulation on a system of 54 chains of 1000 monomers. Starting from a purely amorphous configuration, after an initial dominance of the hexagonal closed packed (HCP) polymorph and a transitory random hexagonal close packed (rHCP) morphology, the system crystallizes in a final, stable, face centered cubic (FCC) crystal of very high perfection. An analysis of chain conformational characteristics, of the spatial distribution of monomers and of the volume accessible to them shows that the phase transition is caused by an increase in translational entropy that is larger than the loss of conformational entropy of the chains in the crystal, compared to the amorphous state. In spite of the significant local re-arrangements, as reflected in the bending and torsion angle distributions, the average chain size remains unaltered during crystallization. Polymers in the crystal adopt ideal random walk statistics as their great length renders local conformational details, imposed by the geometry of the FCC crystal, irrelevant.
Mechanical Amorphization of Chitosan with Different Molecular Weights
Authors: Podgorbunskikh Ekaterina , Kuskov Timofei , Rychkov Denis , Lomovskii Oleg , Bychkov Aleksey
Published: October 2022

Mechanical amorphization of three chitosan samples with high, medium, and low molecular weight was studied. It is shown that there are no significant differences between the course of amorphization process in a planetary ball mill of chitosan with different molecular weights, and the maximum degree of amorphization was achieved in 600 s of high intensity mechanical action. Specific energy consumption was 28 kJ/g, being comparable to power consumption for amorphization of cellulose determined previously (29 kJ/g) and 5–7-fold higher than that for amorphization of starch (4–6 kJ/g). Different techniques for determining the crystallinity index (CrI) of chitosan (analysis of the X-ray diffraction (XRD) data, the peak height method, the amorphous standard method, peak deconvolution, and full-profile Rietveld analysis) were compared. The peak height method is characterized by a broader working range but provides deviated CrI values. The peak deconvolution method (with the amorphous Voigt function) makes it possible to calculate the crystallinity index of chitosan with greater accuracy, but the analysis becomes more difficult with samples subjected to mechanical processing. In order to refine the structure and calculation of CrI by the Rietveld method, an attempt to optimize the structure file by the density functional theory (DFT) method was performed. The averaged profile of amorphous chitosan approximated by an eighth-order Fourier model improved the correctness of the description of the amorphous contribution for XRD data processing. The proposed equation may be used as a universal standard model of amorphous chitosan to determine the crystallinity index both for the amorphous standard method and for peak deconvolution of XRD patterns for arbitrary chitosan samples.
Mechanical Properties of High Temperature Vulcanized Silicone Rubber Aged in the Natural Environment
Authors: Zhang Zhijin , Zhao Jianjie , Wan Xiaodong , Jiang Xingliang , Hu Jianlin
Published: October 2022

Composite insulators operate in harsh field environments all year round. Their various properties and states of aging require attention. It is important to study the performance changes of composite insulator sheds after aging to evaluate the life of insulators operating on grids. For this reason, 22 composite insulator sheds from different factories, with different voltage levels and different ages years were selected to conduct mechanical properties testing. The mechanical properties include hardness, tensile strength, and elongation at break, and were investigated by thermogravimetric (TGA) testing, surface morphology, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) characterization. The changes in mechanical properties of high temperature vulcanization (HTV) composite insulator silicone rubber aged in the natural environment were analyzed, including the reasons for these changes. The results showed that the transverse relaxation time T2 of the sample was closely related to its aging state. The more serious the silicone rubber’s aging, the smaller was the T2. The state of the composite insulator can be evaluated by using T2 and aging years simultaneously. With the actual degree of aging in the silicone rubber intensified, its tensile strength and elongation at break generally showed a downward trend.
Clay-Alginate Beads Loaded with Ionic Liquids: Potential Adsorbents for the Efficient Extraction of Oil from Produced Water
Authors: Liaqat Shehzad , Ibrahim Taleb H. , Khamis Mustafa I. , Nancarrow Paul , Abouleish Mohamed Yehia
Published: October 2022

Produced water (PW) generated from the petroleum industry, during the extraction of oil and gas, has harmful impacts on human health and aquatic life, due to its complex nature. Therefore, it is necessary to treat it before discharging it into the environment in order to avoid serious environmental concerns. In this research, oil adsorption from PW was investigated using clay-alginate beads loaded with ionic liquids (ILs), as the adsorbent material. The effects of several process parameters, such as the initial concentration of oil, contact time, pH, and temperature on the removal efficiency of the beads, were analyzed and optimized. Different characterization methods, such as the Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), were used to investigate the surface morphology, the chemical bond structure and functional group, and the thermal stability of the ILs-based beads. The results revealed that the clay-alginate-ILs beads indicated a removal efficiency of 71.8% at the optimum conditions (600 ppm initial oil concentration, 70 min contact time, 10 pH, and at room temperature) with an adsorption capacity of 431 mg/g. The FTIR analysis confirmed the successful chemical bond interaction of the oil with the beads. The SEM analysis verified that the beads have a porous and rough surface, which is appropriate for the adsorption of oil onto the bead’s surface. The TGA analysis provides the thermal degradation profile for the clay-alginate-ILs. The beads used in the adsorption process were regenerated and used for up to four cycles.