bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Appropriate Method of Administering Vasopressors for Maternal Hypotension Associated with Combined Spinal Epidural Anesthesia in Elective Cesarean Section: Impact on Postnatal Respiratory Support for Newborns
Authors: Magawa Shoichi , Nii Masafumi , Sakakura Yosuke , Enomoto Naosuke , Takakura Sho , Maki Shintaro , Tanaka Hiroaki , Kondo Eiji , Ikeda Tomoaki
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives: Vasopressors are used for treating maternal hypotension. However, the appropriate administration method and effects on newborns have not been reported. We evaluated maternal blood pressure fluctuation and neonatal findings in patients who received continuous vasopressor administration during elective cesarean sections and those who received bolus vasopressor administration upon onset of hypotension. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of 220 patients scheduled for elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia at Mie University Hospital between April 2017 and March 2021. The patients were classified according to the method of vasopressor administration. Maternal information, intraoperative maternal blood pressure fluctuation, and neonatal findings were examined. A multiple regression analysis was performed for the administration of postpartum neonatal respiratory support using maternal background information and other variables related to blood pressure changes as independent variables. Results: The Continuous group and the Bolus group were composed of 98 and 122 patients, respectively. No difference was observed in maternal background information between the groups. Significant changes were noted in several blood pressure parameters between both groups. As for neonatal parameters, newborns of Bolus group patients had lower pO2, 1 min and 5 min Apgar scores, and required more respiratory support than those of Continuous group patients. In the multiple regression analysis, the groups and maternal post-anesthesia diastolic blood pressure variability were considered explanatory variables. Conclusions: Maternal hypotension and the need for neonatal respiratory support associated with anesthesia administration in elective cesarean section may be improved by continuous vasopressor administration upon induction of combined spinal–epidural anesthesia.
Simultaneous Patent Blue Dye Injections Aid in the Preoperative CT-Guided Localization of Multiple Pulmonary Nodules
Authors: Chen Ya-Che , Huang Tsai-Wang , Hsu Hsian-He , Chang Wei-Chou , Ko Kai-Hsiung
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives: Clinically, a major challenge of multiple nodule localization is puncture-related pneumothorax, which may hamper the successful localization. This study aims to investigate and compare the efficacy and safety of the simultaneous and sequential patent blue dye (PBD) injections for identifying multiple pulmonary nodules during preoperative CT-guided localization. Materials and Methods: Sixty-one consecutive patients with multiple pulmonary nodules who underwent preoperative CT-guided localization with PBD injections between January 2020 and December 2020 were retrospectively enrolled. Of these patients, 31 patients with 64 nodules who underwent simultaneous injections were designated as the simultaneous group; the remaining 30 patients with 63 nodules who underwent sequential punctures were designated as the sequential group. The clinical and radiological features, technical information, pathological results, and procedure-related variables and complications of the two groups were reviewed and analyzed. Results: The localization success rate of the simultaneous group was higher than that of the sequential group (100% [64/64] vs. 93.7% [59/63], p = 0.041). The incidences of pneumothorax (32.3 vs. 33.3%, p = 0.929) and pulmonary hemorrhage (6.3 vs. 3.0%, p = 1) were not significantly different between the two groups, and all cases were minor, which did not require further intervention. Additionally, a significantly lower radiation dose (2.7 vs. 3.5 mSv, p = 0.001) and a shorter procedure time (20.95 vs. 25.28 min, p = 0.001) were observed in the simultaneous group than in the sequential group. Conclusions: Compared with the sequential method, simultaneous PBD injections may improve the localization success rate with a shorter procedure time and less radiation exposure if the patient with multiple pulmonary nodules can be approached in a single position. Further prospective studies are needed to validate these results.
A Two-Dimensional Manipulation Method for a Magnetic Microrobot with a Large Region of Interest Using a Triad of Electromagnetic Coils
Authors: Lee Hakjoon , Lee Dongjun , Jeon Seungmun
Published: March 2022

This paper proposes an effective method to manipulate the 2D motions of a magnetic small-scale robot (microrobot) within a relatively large working area using a triad of electromagnetic coils (TEC). The TEC is a combination of three identical circular coils placed at the vertices of an equilateral triangle. Since it is geometrically compact and requires only three control variables (input currents), the TEC can be effectively used to generate various magnetic fields that can be used to maneuver various functional microrobots. In this paper, we established several equations to calculate the input currents of the TEC required to move a microrobot along a designated pathway effectively and precisely. We also constructed an experimental setup to demonstrate and validate the controlled motions of the microrobot using the proposed method. The results showed that the proposed method can effectively improve the TEC’s practical working area (region of interest) for manipulating the microrobot, which can possibly be applied to biomedical and biological applications, including minimally invasive surgery, targeted drug and cargo delivery, microfluidic control, etc.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Micromachines for Dielectrophoresis
Authors: Martinez-Duarte Rodrigo
Published: March 2022

Dielectrophoresis (DEP) remains an effective technique for the label-free identification and manipulation of targeted particles ranging from inert particles to biomolecules and cells [...]
The Importance of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli O145:NM[H28]/H28 Infections in Argentina, 1998–2020
Authors: Carbonari Claudia Carolina , Miliwebsky Elizabeth Sandra , Zolezzi Gisela , Deza Natalia Lorena , Fittipaldi Nahuel , Manfredi Eduardo , Baschkier Ariela , D’Astek Beatriz Alejandra , Melano Roberto Gustavo , Schesi Carla , Rivas Marta , Chinen Isabel
Published: March 2022

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is known as a pathogen associated with food-borne diseases. The STEC O145 serogroup has been related with acute watery diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, hemorrhagic colitis, and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Argentina has the highest rate of HUS worldwide with 70% of the cases associated with STEC infections. We aimed to describe the epidemiology and genetic diversity of STEC O145 strains isolated across Argentina between 1998–2020. The strains isolated from 543 cases of human disease and four cattle, were pheno-genotipically characterized. Sequencing of five strains was performed. The strains were serotyped as O145:NM[H28]/H28, O145:H25, and O145:HNT, and mainly characterized as O145:NM[H28]/stx2a/eae/ehxA (98.1%). The results obtained by sequencing were consistent with those obtained by traditional methods and additional genes involved in different mechanisms of the pathogen were observed. In this study, we confirmed that STEC O145 strains are the second serogroup after O157 and represent 20.3% of HUS cases in Argentina. The frequency of STEC O145 and other significant serogroups is of utmost importance for public health in the country. This study encourages the improvement of the surveillance system to prevent severe cases of human disease.
Deciphering the Role of Protein Phosphatases in Apicomplexa: The Future of Innovative Therapeutics?
Authors: Fréville Aline , Gnangnon Bénédicte , Khelifa Asma S. , Gissot Mathieu , Khalife Jamal , Pierrot Christine
Published: March 2022

Parasites belonging to the Apicomplexa phylum still represent a major public health and world-wide socioeconomic burden that is greatly amplified by the spread of resistances against known therapeutic drugs. Therefore, it is essential to provide the scientific and medical communities with innovative strategies specifically targeting these organisms. In this review, we present an overview of the diversity of the phosphatome as well as the variety of functions that phosphatases display throughout the Apicomplexan parasites’ life cycles. We also discuss how this diversity could be used for the design of innovative and specific new drugs/therapeutic strategies.
The Effect of Lithium on the Budding Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae upon Stress Adaptation
Authors: Reith Patrick , Braam Svenja , Welkenhuysen Niek , Lecinski Sarah , Shepherd Jack , MacDonald Chris , Leake Mark C. , Hohmann Stefan , Shashkova Sviatlana , Cvijovic Marija
Published: March 2022

Lithium salts are used in the treatment of mood disorders, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. It has been shown to prolong life span in several phyla; however, not yet in budding yeast. In our study, we investigate the influence of lithium on yeast cells’ viability by characterizing protein aggregate formation, cell volume, and molecular crowding in the context of stress adaptation. While our data suggest a concentration-dependent growth inhibition caused by LiCl, we show an extended long-term survival rate as an effect of lithium addition upon glucose deprivation. We show that caloric restriction mitigates the negative impact of LiCl on cellular survival. Therefore, we suggest that lithium could affect glucose metabolism upon caloric restriction, which could explain the extended long-term survival observed in our study. We find furthermore that lithium chloride did not affect an immediate salt-induced Hsp104-dependent aggregate formation but cellular adaptation to H2O2 and acute glucose starvation. We presume that different salt types and concentrations interfere with effective Hsp104 recruitment or its ATP-dependent disaggregase activity as a response to salt stress. This work provides novel details of Li+ effect on live eukaryotic cells which may also be applicable in further research on the treatment of cancer, Alzheimer’s, or other age-related diseases in humans.
Biological Control of Plant Pathogens: A Global Perspective
Authors: Lahlali Rachid , Ezrari Said , Radouane Nabil , Kenfaoui Jihane , Esmaeel Qassim , El Hamss Hajar , Belabess Zineb , Barka Essaid Ait
Published: March 2022

The increase in the world population has generated an important need for both quality and quantity agricultural products, which has led to a significant surge in the use of chemical pesticides to fight crop diseases. Consumers, however, have become very concerned in recent years over the side effects of chemical fungicides on human health and the environment. As a result, research into alternative solutions to protect crops has been imposed and attracted wide attention from researchers worldwide. Among these alternatives, biological controls through beneficial microorganisms have gained considerable importance, whilst several biological control agents (BCAs) have been screened, among them Bacillus, Pantoea, Streptomyces, Trichoderma, Clonostachys, Pseudomonas, Burkholderia, and certain yeasts. At present, biopesticide products have been developed and marketed either to fight leaf diseases, root diseases, or fruit storage diseases. However, no positive correlation has been observed between the number of screened BCAs and available marketed products. Therefore, this review emphasizes the development of biofungicides products from screening to marketing and the problems that hinder their development. Finally, particular attention was given to the gaps observed in this sector and factors that hamper its development, particularly in terms of efficacy and legislation procedures.
Do We Speak the Same Language for Reference Particles in Microplastic Research?
Authors: Senfter Thomas , Walter Andreas , Dür Lukas , Alber Florian , Pillei Martin
Published: March 2022

Despite the high number of scientific publications on related topics, such as sustainability, pollution control, etc., research on microplastic (MP) is still in its infancy. To advance the quality of future MP investigations, scientists have recently called for harmonization regarding the definition and categorization of MP, as well as for consensus in sampling and investigations methodologies. The application of standardized and fully characterized MP particles, which are commercially available on a large scale but rarely characterized by manufacturers, could add another piece to that mosaic. This publication aims to introduce ten low-priced MP powders that can be used as reference particles in future MP studies. The physical parameters shape, particle density and particle size distribution were examined, and results compared to technical information reports and data sheets, available. Particle densities were almost in line with the manufacturer’s information. However, significant leaks could be revealed for particle size specifications, thus underlining the demand for an accurate description of the particle size distribution, e.g., D50 or D90.
Biological and Cheminformatics Studies of Newly Designed Triazole Based Derivatives as Potent Inhibitors against Mushroom Tyrosinase
Authors: Hassan Mubashir , Vanjare Balasaheb D. , Sim Kyou-Yeong , Raza Hussain , Lee Ki Hwan , Shahzadi Saba , Kloczkowski Andrzej
Published: March 2022

A series of nine novel 1,2,4-triazole based compounds were synthesized through a multistep reaction pathway and their structures were scrutinized by using spectral methods such as FTIR, LC-MS, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR. The synthesized derivatives were screened for inhibitory activity against the mushroom tyrosinase and we found that all the synthesized compounds demonstrated decent inhibitory activity against tyrosinase. However, among the series of compounds, N-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(5-(2-fluorophenyl)-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-ylthio) acetamide exhibited more prominent activity when accompanied with the standard drug kojic acid. Furthermore, the molecular docking studies identified the interaction profile of all synthesized derivatives at the active site of tyrosinase. Based on these results, N-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(5-(2-fluorophenyl)-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-ylthio) acetamide could be used as a novel scaffold to design some new drugs against melanogenesis.
Completion of the Total Synthesis of Several Bioactive Sarpagine/Macroline Alkaloids including the Important NF-κB Inhibitor N4-Methyltalpinine
Authors: Rahman Md Toufiqur , Tiruveedhula Veera Venkata Naga Phani Babu , Stephen Michael Rajesh , Rallapalli Sundari K. , Pandey Kamal P. , Cook James M.
Published: March 2022

The unification of the general synthetic strategy regarding the important and emerging group of C-19 methyl-substituted sarpagine/macroline alkaloids has culminated in the completion of the total synthesis of several bioactive alkaloids. Key transformations include an ACE-Cl mediated late-stage N(4)-demethylation and an anhydrous acid-mediated intramolecular quaternary hemiaminal formation between a tertiary amine and an aldehyde function to allow efficient access to several biologically important alkaloids from this group. Herein, the enantiospecific total synthesis of the first known sarpagine/macroline alkaloid with NF-κB inhibitory activity, N(4)-methyltalpinine (as a chloride salt), as well as the anticancer alkaloids talpinine, O-acetyltalpinine, and macrocarpines F–G, are described.
Design of Oligourea-Based Foldamers with Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities
Authors: Tallet Lorène , Frisch Emilie , Bornerie Mégane , Medemblik Claire , Frisch Benoît , Lavalle Philippe , Guichard Gilles , Douat Céline , Kichler Antoine
Published: March 2022

There is an urgent need to develop new therapeutic strategies to fight the emergence of multidrug resistant bacteria. Many antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been identified and characterized, but clinical translation has been limited partly due to their structural instability and degradability in physiological environments. The use of unnatural backbones leading to foldamers can generate peptidomimetics with improved properties and conformational stability. We recently reported the successful design of urea-based eukaryotic cell-penetrating foldamers (CPFs). Since cell-penetrating peptides and AMPs generally share many common features, we prepared new sequences derived from CPFs by varying the distribution of histidine- and arginine-type residues at the surface of the oligourea helix, and evaluated their activity on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as on fungi. In addition, we prepared and tested new amphiphilic block cofoldamers consisting of an oligourea and a peptide segment whereby polar and charged residues are located in the peptide segment and more hydrophobic residues in the oligourea segment. Several foldamer sequences were found to display potent antibacterial activities even in the presence of 50% serum. Importantly, we show that these urea-based foldamers also possess promising antifungal properties.
The Highly Efficient Synthesis of 1,2-Disubstituted Benzimidazoles Using Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Nardi Monica , Bonacci Sonia , Herrera Cano Natividad , Oliverio Manuela , Procopio Antonio
Published: March 2022

The benzimidazole ring of the heterocyclic pharmacophores is one of the most widespread and studied systems in nature. The benzimidazole derivative synthesis study is a crucial point for the development of a clinically available benzimidazole-based drug. Here, we report a simple microwave assisted method for the synthesis of 1,2-disubstituted benzimidazoles. The combination of the molar ratio of N-phenyl-o-phenylenediamine:benzaldehyde (1:1) using microwave irradiation and only 1% mol of Er(OTf)3 provides an efficient and environmental mild access to a diversity of benzimidazoles under solvent-free conditions. The proposed method allows for the obtainment of the desired products in a short time and with very high selectivity.
Laser Light Treatment Improves the Mineral Composition, Essential Oil Production and Antimicrobial Activity of Mycorrhizal Treated Pelargoniumgraveolens
Authors: Okla Mohammad K. , Rubnawaz Samina , Dawoud Turki M. , Al-Amri Saud , El-Tayeb Mohamed A. , Abdel-Maksoud Mostafa A. , Akhtar Nosheen , Zrig Ahlem , AbdElgayed Gehad , AbdElgawad Hamada
Published: March 2022

Pelargonium graveolens, rose-scented geranium, is commonly used in the perfume industry. P. graveolens is enriched with essential oils, phenolics, flavonoids, which account for its tremendous biological activities. Laser light treatment and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation can further enhance the phytochemical content in a significant manner. In this study, we aimed to explore the synergistic impact of these two factors on P. graveolens. For this, we used four groups of surface-sterilized seeds: (1) control group1 (non-irradiated; non-colonized group); (2) control group2 (mycorrhizal colonized group); (3) helium-neon (He-Ne) laser-irradiated group; (4) mycorrhizal colonization coupled with He-Ne laser-irradiation group. Treated seeds were growing in artificial soil inculcated with Rhizophagus irregularis MUCL 41833, in a climate-controlled chamber. After 6 weeks, P. graveolens plants were checked for their phytochemical content and antibacterial potential. Laser light application improved the mycorrhizal colonization in P. graveolens plants which subsequently increased biomass accumulation, minerals uptake, and biological value of P. graveolens. The increase in the biological value was evident by the increase in the essential oils production. The concomitant application of laser light and mycorrhizal colonization also boosted the antimicrobial activity of P. graveolens. These results suggest that AMF co-treatment with laser light could be used as a promising approach to enhance the metabolic content and yield of P. graveolens for industrial and pharmaceutical use.
The Antagonizing Role of Heme in the Antimalarial Function of Artemisinin: Elevating Intracellular Free Heme Negatively Impacts Artemisinin Activity in Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Zhu Pan , Zhou Bing
Published: March 2022

The rich source of heme within malarial parasites has been considered to underly the action specificity of artemisinin. We reasoned that increasing intraparasitic free heme levels might further sensitize the parasites to artemisinin. Various means, such as modulating heme synthesis, degradation, polymerization, or hemoglobin digestion, were tried to boost intracellular heme levels, and under several scenarios, free heme levels were significantly augmented. Interestingly, all results arrived at the same conclusion, i.e., elevating heme acted in a strongly negative way, impacting the antimalarial action of artemisinin, but exerted no effect on several other antimalarial drugs. Suppression of the elevated free heme level by introducing heme oxygenase expression effectively restored artemisinin potency. Consistently, zinc protoporphyrin IX/zinc mesoporphyrin, as analogues of heme, drastically increased free heme levels and, concomitantly, the EC50 values of artemisinin. We were unable to effectively mitigate free heme levels, possibly due to an unknown compensating heme uptake pathway, as evidenced by our observation of efficient uptake of a fluorescent heme homologue by the parasite. Our results thus indicate the existence of an effective and mutually compensating heme homeostasis network in the parasites, including an uncharacterized heme uptake pathway, to maintain a certain level of free heme and that augmentation of the free heme level negatively impacts the antimalarial action of artemisinin. Importance: It is commonly believed that heme is critical in activating the antimalarial action of artemisinins. In this work, we show that elevating free heme levels in the malarial parasites surprisingly negatively impacts the action of artemisinin. We tried to boost free heme levels with various means, such as by modulating heme synthesis, heme polymerization, hemoglobin degradation and using heme analogues. Whenever we saw elevation of free heme levels, reduction in artemisinin potency was also observed. The homeostasis of heme appears to be complex, as there exists an unidentified heme uptake pathway in the parasites, nullifying our attempts to effectively reduce intraparasitic free heme levels. Our results thus indicate that too much heme is not good for the antimalarial action of artemisinins. This research can help us better understand the biological properties of this mysterious drug.
Positive Effect of Ecological Restoration with Fabaceous Species on Microbial Activities of Former Guyanese Mining Sites
Authors: Couic Ewan , Tribondeau Alicia , Alphonse Vanessa , Livet Alexandre , Bousserrhine Noureddine
Published: March 2022

Understanding ecological trajectories after mine site rehabilitation is essential to develop relevant protocols adapted for gold mining sites. This study describes the influence of a range of mine site rehabilitation and revegetation protocols on soil physicochemical parameters and microbial activities related to carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycles. We sampled soil from six rehabilitated mining sites in French Guiana with different plant cover (herbaceous, Cyperaceous, monoculture of Clitoria racemosa and Acacia mangium and association of C. racemosa and A. mangium). We measured the mineralization potential of organic matter by estimating the mineralization of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus and the microbial catabolic diversity balance. The results showed an improvement in the quality of organic matter on revegetated sites with tree cover. On restored sites with fabaceous species, the microbial biomass is three times higher than non-restored sites, improving the rates of organic matter mineralization and restoring the catabolic diversity to the level of natural Guyanese soils. These results confirm that the establishment of fabaceous species under controlled conditions significantly improves the restoration of microbial communities in mining soils.
Plant-Derived Antiviral Compounds as Potential Entry Inhibitors against Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2 Wild-Type and Delta Variant: An Integrative in SilicoApproach
Authors: Ambrose Jenifer Mallavarpu , Kullappan Malathi , Patil Shankargouda , Alzahrani Khalid J. , Banjer Hamsa Jameel , Qashqari Fadi S. I. , Raj A. Thirumal , Bhandi Shilpa , Veeraraghavan Vishnu Priya , Jayaraman Selvaraj , Sekar Durairaj , Agarwal Alok , Swapnavahini Korla , Krishna Mohan Surapaneni
Published: March 2022

The wild-type SARS-CoV-2 has continuously evolved into several variants with increased transmissibility and virulence. The Delta variant which was initially identified in India created a devastating impact throughout the country during the second wave. While the efficacy of the existing vaccines against the latest SARS-CoV-2 variants remains unclear, extensive research is being carried out to develop potential antiviral drugs through approaches like in silico screening and drug-repurposing. This study aimed to conduct the docking-based virtual screening of 50 potential phytochemical compounds against a Spike glycoprotein of the wild-type and the Delta SARS-CoV-2 variant. Subsequently, molecular docking was performed for the five best compounds, such as Lupeol, Betulin, Hypericin, Corilagin, and Geraniin, along with synthetic controls. From the results obtained, it was evident that Lupeol exhibited a remarkable binding affinity towards the wild-type Spike protein (−8.54 kcal/mol), while Betulin showed significant binding interactions with the mutated Spike protein (−8.83 kcal/mol), respectively. The binding energy values of the selected plant compounds were slightly higher than that of the controls. Key hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions of the resulting complexes were visualized, which explained their greater binding affinity against the target proteins—the Delta S protein of SARS-CoV-2, in particular. The lower RMSD, the RMSF values of the complexes and the ligands, Rg, H-bonds, and the binding free energies of the complexes together revealed the stability of the complexes and significant binding affinities of the ligands towards the target proteins. Our study suggests that Lupeol and Betulin could be considered as potential ligands for SARS-CoV-2 spike antagonists. Further experimental validations might provide new insights for the possible antiviral therapeutic interventions of the identified lead compounds and their analogs against COVID-19 infection.
Amyloid Cross-Seeding: Mechanism, Implication, and Inhibition
Authors: Subedi Sushma , Sasidharan Santanu , Nag Niharika , Saudagar Prakash , Tripathi Timir
Published: March 2022

Most neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, etc. are caused by inclusions and plaques containing misfolded protein aggregates. These protein aggregates are essentially formed by the interactions of either the same (homologous) or different (heterologous) sequences. Several experimental pieces of evidence have revealed the presence of cross-seeding in amyloid proteins, which results in a multicomponent assembly; however, the molecular and structural details remain less explored. Here, we discuss the amyloid proteins and the cross-seeding phenomena in detail. Data suggest that targeting the common epitope of the interacting amyloid proteins may be a better therapeutic option than targeting only one species. We also examine the dual inhibitors that target the amyloid proteins participating in the cross-seeding events. The future scopes and major challenges in understanding the mechanism and developing therapeutics are also considered. Detailed knowledge of the amyloid cross-seeding will stimulate further research in the practical aspects and better designing anti-amyloid therapeutics.
Apigenin Isolated from Carduus crispus Protects against H2O2-Induced Oxidative Damage and Spermatogenic Expression Changes in GC-2spd Sperm Cells
Authors: Kopalli Spandana Rajendra , Yoo Sung-Kwang , Kim Bokyung , Kim Si-Kwan , Koppula Sushruta
Published: March 2022

Testicular oxidative stress is one of the most common factors underlying male infertility. Welted thistle, Carduus crispus Linn., and its bioactive principles are attracting scientific interest in treating male reproductive dysfunctions. Here, the protective effects of apigenin isolated from C. crispus against oxidative damage induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and dysregulation in spermatogenesis associated parameters in testicular sperm cells was investigated. Cell viabilities, ROS scavenging effects, and spermatogenic associated molecular expressions were measured by MTT, DCF-DA, Western blotting and real-time RT-PCR, respectively. A single peak with 100% purity of apigenin was obtained in HPLC conditions. Apigenin treated alone (2.5, 5, 10 and 20 µM) did not exhibit cytotoxicity, but inhibited the H2O2-induced cellular damage and elevated ROS levels significantly (p < 0.05 at 5, 10 and 20 µM) and dose-dependently. Further, H2O2-induced down-regulation of antioxidant (glutathione S-transferases m5, glutathione peroxidase 4, and peroxiredoxin 3) and spermatogenesis-associated (nectin-2 and phosphorylated-cAMP response element-binding protein) molecular expression in GC-2spd cells were attenuated by apigenin at both protein and mRNA levels (p < 0.05). In conclusion, our study showed that apigenin isolated from C. crispus might be an effective agent that can protect ROS-induced testicular dysfunctions.
Experimental and Mathematical Modelling of Factors Influencing Carbon Dioxide Absorption into the Aqueous Solution of Monoethanolamine and 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium Dibutylphosphate Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)
Authors: Azhar Fatin Nor Arissa , Taha Mohd Faisal , Mat Ghani Siti Musliha , Ruslan Muhammad Syafiq Hazwan , Md Yunus Noor Mona
Published: March 2022

This paper investigated the solubility of carbon dioxide (CO2) in an aqueous solution of monoethanolamine (MEA) and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium dibutylphosphate ((BMIM)(DBP)) ionic liquid (IL) hybrid solvents. Aqueous solutions of MEA-(BMIM)(DBP) hybrid solvents containing different concentrations of (BMIM)(DBP) were prepared to exploit the amine’s reactive nature, combined with the IL’s non-volatile nature for CO2 absorption. Response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) was used to design the CO2 solubility experiments and to investigate the effects of three independent factors on the solubility of CO2 in the aqueous MEA-(BMIM)(DBP) hybrid solvent. The three independent factors were the concentration of (BMIM)(DBP) (0–20 wt.%), temperature (30 °C–60 °C) and pressure of CO2 (2–30 bar). The experimental data were fitted to a quadratic model with a coefficient of determination (R2) value of 0.9791. The accuracy of the developed model was confirmed through additional experiments where the experimental values were found to be within the 95% confidence interval. From the RSM-generated model, the optimum conditions for CO2 absorption in aqueous 30 wt% MEA-(BMIM)(DBP) were 20 wt% of (BMIM)(DBP), a temperature of 41.1 °C and a pressure of 30 bar.
Covalent Attachment of Aggregation-Induced Emission Molecules to the Surface of Ultrasmall Gold Nanoparticles to Enhance Cell Penetration
Authors: Klein Kai , Hayduk Matthias , Kollenda Sebastian , Schmiedtchen Marco , Voskuhl Jens , Epple Matthias
Published: March 2022

Three different alkyne-terminated aggregation-induced emission molecules based on a para-substituted di-thioether were attached to the surface of ultrasmall gold nanoparticles (2 nm) by copper-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (click chemistry). They showed a strong fluorescence and were well water-dispersible, in contrast to the dissolved AIE molecules. The AIE-loaded nanoparticles were not cytotoxic and easily penetrated the membrane of HeLa cells, paving the way for an intracellular application of AIE molecules, e.g., for imaging.
Growth and Characterization of Graphene Layers on Different Kinds of Copper Surfaces
Authors: Rafailov Peter M. , Sveshtarov Peter K. , Mehandzhiev Vladimir B. , Avramova Ivalina , Terziyska Penka , Petrov Minko , Katranchev Boyko , Naradikian Haritun , Boyadjiev Stefan I. , Cserháti Csaba , Erdélyi Zoltán , Szilágyi Imre M.
Published: March 2022

Graphene films were grown by chemical vapor deposition on Cu foil. The obtained samples were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, ellipsometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electron back-scatter diffraction. We discuss the time-dependent changes in the samples, estimate the thickness of emerging Cu2O beneath the graphene and check the orientation-dependent affinity to oxidation of distinct Cu grains, which also governs the manner in which the initial strong Cu-graphene coupling and strain in the graphene lattice is released. Effects of electropolishing on the quality and the Raman response of the grown graphene layers are studied by microtexture polarization analysis. The obtained data are compared with the Raman signal of graphene after transfer on glass substrate revealing the complex interaction of graphene with the Cu substrate.
Muscles—A New Open Access Journal
Authors: Angelini Corrado
Published: March 2022

Skeletal muscle represents over 40% of the body and is important for metabolism, exercise, and movement [...]
Cybersecurity Challenges in the Maritime Sector
Authors: Akpan Frank , Bendiab Gueltoum , Shiaeles Stavros , Karamperidis Stavros , Michaloliakos Michalis
Published: March 2022

Cyberattacks have been rapidly increasing over the years, resulting to big financial losses to businesses for recovery, regulatory sanctions, as well as collateral damages, such as reputation and trust. In this respect, the maritime sector, which until now was considered safe due to the lack of Internet connectivity and the isolated nature of ships in the sea, is showing a 900% increase in cybersecurity breaches on operational technology as it enters the digital era. Although some research is being conducted in this area, maritime cybersecurity has not been deeply investigated. Hence, this paper provides a close investigation of the landscape of cybersecurity in the maritime sector with the aim of highlighting security problems and challenges. First, it explores the systems available on ships that could be targeted by attackers, their possible vulnerabilities that an attacker could exploit, the consequences if the system is accessed, and actual incidents. Then, it describes and analyses possible mitigation actions that can be utilised in advance to prevent such attacks. Finally, several challenges and open problems are discussed for future research.
GlyNAC (Glycine and N-Acetylcysteine) Supplementation in Mice Increases Length of Life by Correcting Glutathione Deficiency, Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Abnormalities in Mitophagy and Nutrient Sensing, and Genomic Damage
Authors: Kumar Premranjan , Osahon Ob W. , Sekhar Rajagopal V.
Published: March 2022

Determinants of length of life are not well understood, and therefore increasing lifespan is a challenge. Cardinal theories of aging suggest that oxidative stress (OxS) and mitochondrial dysfunction contribute to the aging process, but it is unclear if they could also impact lifespan. Glutathione (GSH), the most abundant intracellular antioxidant, protects cells from OxS and is necessary for maintaining mitochondrial health, but GSH levels decline with aging. Based on published human studies where we found that supplementing glycine and N-acetylcysteine (GlyNAC) improved/corrected GSH deficiency, OxS and mitochondrial dysfunction, we hypothesized that GlyNAC supplementation could increase longevity. We tested our hypothesis by evaluating the effect of supplementing GlyNAC vs. placebo in C57BL/6J mice on (a) length of life; and (b) age-associated GSH deficiency, OxS, mitochondrial dysfunction, abnormal mitophagy and nutrient-sensing, and genomic-damage in the heart, liver and kidneys. Results showed that mice receiving GlyNAC supplementation (1) lived 24% longer than control mice; (2) improved/corrected impaired GSH synthesis, GSH deficiency, OxS, mitochondrial dysfunction, abnormal mitophagy and nutrient-sensing, and genomic-damage. These studies provide proof-of-concept that GlyNAC supplementation can increase lifespan and improve multiple age-associated defects. GlyNAC could be a novel and simple nutritional supplement to improve lifespan and healthspan, and warrants additional investigation.
Adverse Effects of Infant Formula Made with Corn-Syrup Solids on the Development of Eating Behaviors in Hispanic Children
Authors: Hampson Hailey E. , Jones Roshonda B. , Berger Paige K. , Plows Jasmine F. , Schmidt Kelsey A. , Alderete Tanya L. , Goran Michael I.
Published: March 2022

Few studies have investigated the influence of infant formulas made with added corn-syrup solids on the development of child eating behaviors. We examined associations of breastmilk (BM), traditional formula (TF), and formula containing corn-syrup solids (CSSF) with changes in eating behaviors over a period of 2 years. Feeding type was assessed at 6 months in 115 mother–infant pairs. Eating behaviors were assessed at 12, 18 and 24 months. Repeated Measures ANCOVA was used to determine changes in eating behaviors over time as a function of feeding type. Food fussiness and enjoyment of food differed between the feeding groups (p < 0.05) and changed over time for CSSF and TF (p < 0.01). Food fussiness increased from 12 to 18 and 12 to 24 months for CSSF and from 12 to 24 months for TF (p < 0.01), while it remained stable for BM. Enjoyment of food decreased from 12 to 24 months for CSSF (p < 0.01), while it remained stable for TF and BM. There was an interaction between feeding type and time for food fussiness and enjoyment of food (p < 0.01). Our findings suggest that Hispanic infants consuming CSSF may develop greater food fussiness and reduced enjoyment of food in the first 2 years of life compared to BM-fed infants.
Altered Serum Acylcarnitines Profile after a Prolonged Stay in Intensive Care
Authors: Rousseau Anne-Françoise , Schmitz Sarah , Cavalier Etienne , Misset Benoit , Boemer François
Published: March 2022

A stay in intensive care unit (ICU) exposes patients to a risk of carnitine deficiency. Moreover, acylated derivates of carnitine (acylcarnitines, AC) are biomarkers for metabolic mitochondrial dysfunction that have been linked to post-ICU disorders. This study aimed to describe the AC profile of survivors of a prolonged ICU stay (≥7 days). Survivors enrolled in our post-ICU clinic between September 2020 and July 2021 were included. Blood analysis was routinely performed during the days after ICU discharge, focusing on metabolic markers and including AC profile. Serum AC concentrations were determined by LC-MS/MS and were compared to the reference ranges (RR) established from serum samples of 50 non-hospitalized Belgian adults aged from 18 to 81 years. A total 162 patients (65.4% males, age 67 (58.7–73) years) survived an ICU stay of 9.7 (7.1–19.3) days and were evaluated 5 (3–8) days after discharge. Their AC profile was significantly different compared to RR, mostly in terms of short chain AC: the sum of C3, C4 and C5 derivates reached 1.36 (0.98–1.99) and 0.86 (0.66–0.99) µmol/L respectively (p < 0.001). Free carnitine (C0) concentration of survivors (46.06 (35.04–56.35) µmol/L) was similar to RR (43.64 (36.43–52.96) µmol/L) (p = 0.55). C0 below percentile 2.5 of RR was observed in 6/162 (3.7%) survivors. Their total AC/C0 ratio was 0.33 (0.22–0.42). A ratio above 0.4 was observed in 45/162 (27.8%) patients. In ICU survivors, carnitine deficiency was rare, but AC profile was altered and AC/C0 ratio was abnormal in more than 25%. The value of AC profile as a marker of post-ICU dysmetabolism needs further investigations.
Selenium Deficiency during Pregnancy in Mice Impairs Exercise Performance and Metabolic Function in Adult Offspring
Authors: Hofstee Pierre , Perkins Anthony V. , Cuffe James S. M.
Published: March 2022

Selenium deficiency during the perinatal period programs metabolic dysfunction in offspring. Postnatal exercise may prevent the development of programmed metabolic disease. This study investigated the impact of selenium deficiency on offspring exercise behavior and whether this improved metabolic health. Female C57BL/6 mice were randomly allocated to control (NormalSe, >190 μg/Se/kg, n = 8) or low-selenium (LowSe, <50 μg/Se/kg, n = 8) diets from four weeks before mating. Male offspring were weaned at postnatal day (PN) twenty-four and placed on a normal chow diet. At PN60, mice were placed in cages with bi-directional running wheels and monitored until PN180. LowSe offspring had a reduced average weekly running speed and distance (p < 0.05). LowSe offspring exhibited glucose intolerance, with increased peak blood glucose (p < 0.05) and area under the curve following an intra-peritoneal injection of glucose (p < 0.05). Furthermore, mRNA expression of several selenoproteins within cardiac and skeletal muscle were increased in LowSe offspring (p < 0.05). The results indicated that selenium deficiency during development reduces exercise behavior. Furthermore, exercise does not prevent programmed glucose intolerance in low-selenium offspring. This highlights that exercise may not be the optimal intervention for metabolic disease in offspring impacted by selenium deficiency in early life.
Metabolomics Analysis Reveals the Effects of Compound Fuzhuan Brick Tea (CFBT) on Regulating Dyslipidemia and Metabolic Disorders in Mice Induced by High-Fat Diet
Authors: Zhou Xiaolu , Ge Binggang , Zhang Xuwen , Wang Kunbo , Zhou Caibi , Fu Donghe
Published: March 2022

Background: It is well known that obesity induced by high-fat diet (HFD) poses a serious threat to people’s health. Fuzhuan brick tea, one of the most popular beverages, is reported to possess a significant effect on regulating lipid metabolism, attributed to its many bioactive ingredients. However, the efficacy and mechanism of compound Fuzhuan brick tea (CFBT) made from Fuzhuan brick tea and other six Chinese herbal medicines are still not well defined. Methods: Sixty mice were divided into six groups: normal control group (CK), high-fat model group (NK), positive control group with anti-hyperlipidemic drug (YK), CFBT at low-(FL), medium-(FM) and high-(FH) dosage. Intervening for 30 days, conventional indexes analysis combined with metabolomics were performed to evaluate the changes in biochemical indexes and liver metabolic profiles in mice submitted to HFD. Results: CFBT treatment was able to ameliorate obesity, serum biochemical parameters, antioxidant activity and hepatic steatosis. In addition, significant alterations in the liver tissue metabolic profiles were observed, with most of these associated with inflammation, glucose and lipid metabolism. Conclusions: This study provides evidence that consumption of CFBT is capable of preventing dyslipidemia, reducing weight gain, restoring liver injury, as well as improving metabolic disorders.
Clinical Potential of Fruit in Bladder Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Wigner Paulina , Bijak Michał , Saluk-Bijak Joanna
Published: March 2022

Bladder cancer (BC) is the most common tumor of the urinary system in the world. Moreover, despite using anticancer therapies, BC is also characterized by a high recurrence risk. Among numerous risk factors, cigarette smoking, occupational exposure to certain aromatic compounds, and genetic factors contribute most strongly to BC development. However, the epidemiological data to date suggests that diet quality may influence some carcinogenic factors of BC and, therefore, might have a preventative effect. Adequate consumption of selected fruits with scientifically proven properties, including pomegranates and cranberries, can significantly reduce the risk of developing BC, even in those at risk. Therefore, in this article, we aim to elucidate, using available literature, the role of fruits, including pomegranates, cranberries, citrus fruits, cactus pears, and apples, in BC prevention and treatment. Previous data indicate the role of compounds in the above-mentioned fruits in the modulation of the signaling pathways, including cell proliferation, cell growth, cell survival, and cell death.
The Effects of Carbohydrate versus Fat Restriction on Lipid Profiles in Highly Trained, Recreational Distance Runners: A Randomized, Cross-Over Trial
Authors: Buga Alex , Welton Gary L. , Scott Katie E. , Atwell Adam D. , Haley Sarah J. , Esbenshade Noah J. , Abraham Jacqueline , Buxton Jeffrey D. , Ault Dana L. , Raabe Amy S. , Noakes Timothy D. , Hyde Parker N. , Volek Jeff S. , Prins Philip J.
Published: March 2022

A growing number of endurance athletes have considered switching from a traditional high-carbohydrate/low-fat (HCLF) to a low-carbohydrate/high-fat (LCHF) eating pattern for health and performance reasons. However, few studies have examined how LCHF diets affect blood lipid profiles in highly-trained runners. In a randomized and counterbalanced, cross-over design, athletes (n = 7 men; VO2max: 61.9 ± 6.1 mL/kg/min) completed six weeks of two, ad libitum, LCHF (6/69/25% en carbohydrate/fat/protein) and HCLF (57/28/15% en carbohydrate/fat/protein) diets, separated by a two-week washout. Plasma was collected on days 4, 14, 28, and 42 during each condition and analyzed for: triglycerides (TG), LDL-C, HDL-C, total cholesterol (TC), VLDL, fasting glucose, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Capillary blood beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) was monitored during LCHF as a measure of ketosis. LCHF lowered plasma TG, VLDL, and TG/HDL-C (all p < 0.01). LCHF increased plasma TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, and TC/HDL-C (all p < 0.05). Plasma glucose and HbA1c were unaffected. Capillary BHB was modestly elevated throughout the LCHF condition (0.5 ± 0.05 mmol/L). Healthy, well-trained, normocholesterolemic runners consuming a LCHF diet demonstrated elevated circulating LDL-C and HDL-C concentrations, while concomitantly decreasing TG, VLDL, and TG/HDL-C ratio. The underlying mechanisms and implications of these adaptive responses in cholesterol should be explored.
Reduced Abundance of Nitrate-Reducing Bacteria in the Oral Microbiota of Women with Future Preeclampsia
Authors: Altemani Faisal , Barrett Helen L. , Callaway Leonie K. , McIntyre H. David , Dekker Nitert Marloes
Published: March 2022

The oral microbiota can contribute to the regulation of blood pressure by increasing the availability of nitric oxide through the reduction of nitrate to nitrite, which can be converted into nitric oxide in the stomach and then enter the circulation. It is unclear if the composition of the oral microbiota is different between women who do and do not develop preeclampsia. This study aimed to compare the composition of the buccal microbiota just prior to the development of symptoms at 36 weeks gestation in 12 women who developed late-onset preeclampsia and 24 matched women who remained normotensive throughout pregnancy by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. The abundance of the nitrate-reducing Veillonella spp V. parvula and V. dispar and a subunit of nitrate reductase narH was compared using real-time PCR. The abundance of bacteria was correlated with maternal blood pressure and dietary intake of nitrate-containing vegetables. The results showed that the abundance of nitrate-reducing bacteria including Veillonella, specifically V. parvula, and Prevotella was reduced in women who developed preeclampsia. Veillonella but not Prevotella abundance was negatively correlated with maternal blood pressure. The dietary intake of nitrate-containing vegetables did not differ between the groups and was not correlated with the abundance of Veillonella. There was no difference in the abundance of the nitrate reductase subunit narH between the groups. These results suggest that the abundance of nitrate-reducing bacteria is reduced in the oral microbiota of women who later develop preeclampsia, indicating a potential pathway for prevention.