bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Capability of Chemical Ameliorants to Reduce the Bioavailability of Heavy Metals in Bulk Fly Ash Contaminated Soil
Authors: Mandal Joy Kumar , Mukherjee Siddhartha , Saha Niharendu , Halder Nibedan , Biswas Tufleuddin , Chakraborty Sanjoy , Hassan Sabry , Hassan Mohamed M. , Abo-Shosha Ali A. , Hossain Akbar
Published: November 2021

In-situ rehabilitation of fly ash at dumping sites has rarely been addressed for crop production due to growth-related constraints, largely of heavy metal (HM) contamination in soils and crops. Current communication deals with a novel approach to identify a suitable management option for rejuvenating the contaminated soils. In this background, a 60-days incubation experiment was conducted with different fly ash-soil mixtures (50 + 50%, A1; 75 + 25%, A2; 100 + 0%, A3) along with four ameliorants, namely, lime (T1), sodium sulphide (T2), di-ammonium phosphate (T3), and humic acid (T4) at 30 ± 2 °C to assess the ability of different fly ash-soil-ameliorant mixtures in reducing bio-availability of HMs. Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA)-extractable bio-available HM contents for lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr) and their respective ratios to total HM contents under the influence of different treatments were estimated at 0, 15, 30, 45, and 60 days of incubation. Further, the eco-toxicological impact of different treatments on soil microbial properties was studied after 60 days of experimentation. A1T1 significantly recorded the lowest bio-availability of HMs (~49–233% lower) followed by A2T1 (~35–133%) among the treatments. The principal component analysis also confirmed the superiority of A1T1 and A2T1 in this regard. Further, A1T1 achieved low contamination factor and ecological risk with substantial microbial biomass carbon load and dehydrogenase activity. Thus, liming to fly ash-soil mixture at 50:50 may be considered as the best management option for ameliorating metal toxicity. This technology may guide thermal power plants to provide the necessary package of practices for the stakeholders to revive their contaminated lands for better environmental sustainability.
Nanoantioxidants: Pioneer Types, Advantages, Limitations, and Future Insights
Authors: Omran Basma , Baek Kwang-Hyun
Published: November 2021

Free radicals are generated as byproducts of normal metabolic processes as well as due to exposure to several environmental pollutants. They are highly reactive species, causing cellular damage and are associated with a plethora of oxidative stress-related diseases and disorders. Antioxidants can control autoxidation by interfering with free radical propagation or inhibiting free radical formation, reducing oxidative stress, improving immune function, and increasing health longevity. Antioxidant functionalized metal nanoparticles, transition metal oxides, and nanocomposites have been identified as potent nanoantioxidants. They can be formulated in monometallic, bimetallic, and multi-metallic combinations via chemical and green synthesis techniques. The intrinsic antioxidant properties of nanomaterials are dependent on their tunable configuration, physico-chemical properties, crystallinity, surface charge, particle size, surface-to-volume ratio, and surface coating. Nanoantioxidants have several advantages over conventional antioxidants, involving increased bioavailability, controlled release, and targeted delivery to the site of action. This review emphasizes the most pioneering types of nanoantioxidants such as nanoceria, silica nanoparticles, polydopamine nanoparticles, and nanocomposite-, polysaccharide-, and protein-based nanoantioxidants. This review overviews the antioxidant potential of biologically synthesized nanomaterials, which have emerged as significant alternatives due to their biocompatibility and high stability. The promising nanoencapsulation nanosystems such as solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, and liposome nanoparticles are highlighted. The advantages, limitations, and future insights of nanoantioxidant applications are discussed.
Andrographolide: A Herbal-Chemosynthetic Approach for Enhancing Immunity, Combating Viral Infections, and Its Implication on Human Health
Authors: Mishra Archana , Shaik Haq Abdul , Sinha Rakesh Kumar , Shah Bakht Ramin
Published: November 2021

Plants consistently synthesize and accumulate medically valuable secondary metabolites which can be isolated and clinically tested under in vitro conditions. An advancement with such important phytochemical production has been recognized and utilized as herbal drugs. Bioactive andrographolide (AGL; C20H30O5) isolated from Andrographis paniculate (AP) (Kalmegh) is a diterpenoid lactones having multifunctional medicinal properties including anti-manic, anti-inflammatory, liver, and lung protective. AGL is known for its immunostimulant activity against a variety of microbial infections thereby, regulating classical and alternative macrophage activation, Ag-specific antibody production during immune disorder therapy. In vitro studies with AGL found it to be effective against multiple tumors, neuronal disorders, diabetes, pneumonia, fibrosis, and other diverse therapeutic misadventures. Generally, virus-based diseases like ZIKA, influenza A virus subtype (H1NI), Ebola (EBOV), Dengue (DENV), and coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemics have greatly increased scientific interest and demands to develop more effective and economical immunomodulating drugs with minimal side effects. Trials and in vitro pharmacological studies with AGL and medicinally beneficial herbs might contribute to benefit the human population without using chemical-based synthetic drugs. In this review, we have discussed the possible role of AGL as a promising herbal-chemo remedy during human diseases, viral infections and as an immunity booster.
First-Principles Study on the Effect of Strain on Single-Layer Molybdenum Disulfide
Authors: Chong Chen , Liu Hongxia , Wang Shulong , Yang Kun
Published: November 2021

By adopting the first-principles plane wave pseudopotential method based on density functional theory, the electronic structure properties of single-layer MoS2 (molybdenum disulfide) crystals under biaxial strain are studied. The calculation results in this paper show that when a small strain is applied to a single-layer MoS2, its band structure changes from a direct band gap to an indirect band gap. As the strain increases, the energy band still maintains the characteristics of the indirect band gap, and the band gap shows a linear downward trend. Through further analysis of the density of states, sub-orbital density of states, thermodynamic parameters and Raman spectroscopy, it revealed the variation of single-layer MoS2 with strain. This provides a theoretical basis for realizing the strain regulation of MoS2.
Mechanism of Amyloid Gel Formation by Several Short Amyloidogenic Peptides
Authors: Galzitskaya Oxana V. , Selivanova Olga M. , Gorbunova Elena Y. , Mustaeva Leila G. , Azev Viacheslav N. , Surin Alexey K.
Published: November 2021

Under certain conditions, many proteins/peptides are capable of self-assembly into various supramolecular formations: fibrils, films, amyloid gels. Such formations can be associated with pathological phenomena, for example, with various neurodegenerative diseases in humans (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and others), or perform various functions in the body, both in humans and in representatives of other domains of life. Recently, more and more data have appeared confirming the ability of many known and, probably, not yet studied proteins/peptides, to self-assemble into quaternary structures. Fibrils, biofilms and amyloid gels are promising objects for the developing field of research of nanobiotechnology. To develop methods for obtaining nanobiomaterials with desired properties, it is necessary to study the mechanism of such structure formation, as well as the influence of various factors on this process. In this work, we present the results of a study of the structure of biogels formed by four 10-membered amyloidogenic peptides: the VDSWNVLVAG peptide (AspNB) and its analogue VESWNVLVAG (GluNB), which are amyloidogenic fragments of the glucantransferase Bgl2p protein from a yeast cell wall, and amyloidogenic peptides Aβ(31–40), Aβ(33–42) from the Aβ(1–42) peptide. Based on the analysis of the data, we propose a possible mechanism for the formation of amyloid gels with these peptides.
Evaluation of Optical and Acoustical Properties of Ba1−xSrxTiO3 Thin Film Material Library via Conjugation of Picosecond Laser Ultrasonics with X-ray Diffraction, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, Electron Probe Micro Analysis, Scanning Electron and Atomic Force Microscopies
Authors: Sandeep Sathyan , Raetz Samuel , Wolfman Jerome , Negulescu Beatrice , Liu Guozhen , Longuet Jean-Louis , Thréard Théo , Gusev Vitalyi E.
Published: November 2021

Wide-range continuous spatial variation of the film composition in lateral compositionally graded epitaxial films requires the development of high throughput measurement techniques for their local and non-destructive characterization with the highest possible spatial resolution. Here we report on the first application of the picosecond laser ultrasonics (PLU) technique for the evaluation of acoustical and optical parameters of lateral compositionally graded film, the Ba1−xSrxTiO3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) material library. The film was not dedicatedly prepared for its opto-acousto-optic evaluation by PLU, exhibiting significant lateral variations in thickness and surface roughness. Therefore, the achieved measurements of the sound velocity and of the optical refractive index, and characterization of the surface roughness confirm the robustness of the PLU technique for thin film evaluation. We hope that the first measurements of the acoustical and optical properties of epitaxial grown Ba1−xSrxTiO3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) by PLU technique accomplished here provide the parameters required for more extended predictive design of the phononic, photonic and phoxonic mirrors and cavities with superior properties/functionalities for novel multifunctional nanodevices.
Simultaneous Ultrasound-Assisted Hybrid Polyzwitterion/Antimicrobial Peptide Nanoparticles Synthesis and Deposition on Silicone Urinary Catheters for Prevention of Biofilm-Associated Infections
Authors: Ivanova Aleksandra , Ivanova Kristina , Tzanov Tzanko
Published: November 2021

Nosocomial infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria are constantly growing healthcare threats, as they are the reason for the increased mortality, morbidity, and considerable financial burden due to the poor infection outcomes. Indwelling medical devices, such as urinary catheters, are frequently colonized by bacteria in the form of biofilms that cause dysfunction of the device and severe chronic infections. The current treatment strategies of such device-associated infections are impaired by the resistant pathogens but also by a risk of prompting the appearance of new antibiotic-resistant bacterial mechanisms. Herein, the one-step sonochemical synthesis of hybrid poly(sulfobetaine) methacrylate/Polymyxin B nanoparticles (pSBMA@PM NPs) coating was employed to engineer novel nanoenabled silicone catheters with improved antifouling, antibacterial, and antibiofilm efficiencies. The synergistic mode of action of nanohybridized zwitterionic polymer and antimicrobial peptide led to complete inhibition of the nonspecific protein adsorption and up to 97% reduction in Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm formation, in comparison with the pristine silicone. Additionally, the bactericidal activity in the hybrid coating reduced the free-floating and surface-attached bacterial growth by 8 logs, minimizing the probability for further P. aeruginosa spreading and host invasion. This coating was stable for up to 7 days under conditions simulating the real scenario of catheter usage and inhibited by 80% P. aeruginosa biofilms. For the same time of use, the pSBMA@PM NPs coating did not affect the metabolic activity and morphology of mammalian cells, demonstrating their capacity to control antibiotic-resistant biofilm-associated bacterial infections.
Carbon Nano-Fiber/PDMS Composite Used as Corrosion-Resistant Coating for Copper Anodes in Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Bensalah Fatma , Pézard Julien , Haddour Naoufel , Erouel Mohsen , Buret François , Khirouni Kamel
Published: November 2021

The development of high-performance anode materials is one of the greatest challenges for the practical implementation of Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) technology. Copper (Cu) has a much higher electrical conductivity than carbon-based materials usually used as anodes in MFCs. However, it is an unsuitable anode material, in raw state, for MFC application due to its corrosion and its toxicity to microorganisms. In this paper, we report the development of a Cu anode material coated with a corrosion-resistant composite made of Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) doped with carbon nanofiber (CNF). The surface modification method was optimized for improving the interfacial electron transfer of Cu anodes for use in MFCs. Characterization of CNF-PDMS composites doped at different weight ratios demonstrated that the best electrical conductivity and electrochemical properties are obtained at 8% weight ratio of CNF/PDMS mixture. Electrochemical characterization showed that the corrosion rate of Cu electrode in acidified solution decreased from (17 ± 6) × 103 μm y−1 to 93 ± 23 μm y−1 after CNF-PDMS coating. The performance of Cu anodes coated with different layer thicknesses of CNF-PDMS (250 µm, 500 µm, and 1000 µm), was evaluated in MFC. The highest power density of 70 ± 8 mW m−2 obtained with 500 µm CNF-PDMS was about 8-times higher and more stable than that obtained through galvanic corrosion of unmodified Cu. Consequently, the followed process improves the performance of Cu anode for MFC applications.
Exendin-4-Conjugated Manganese Magnetism-Engineered Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as a Potential Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contrast Agent for Tracking Transplanted β-Cells
Authors: Juang Jyuhn-Huarng , Shen Chia-Rui , Wang Jiun-Jie , Wu Shu-Ting , Lin Sung-Han , Chen Chen-Yi , Kao Chen-Wei , Chen Chen-Ling , Tsai Zei-Tsan , Wang Yun-Ming
Published: November 2021

To specifically detect and trace transplanted islet β-cells by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we conjugated manganese magnetism-engineered iron oxide nanoparticles (MnMEIO NPs) with exendin-4 (Ex4) which specifically binds glucagon-like peptide-1 receptors on the surface of β-cells. The size distribution of MnMEIO and MnMEIO-Ex4 NPs were 67.8 ± 1.3 and 70.2 ± 2.3 nm and zeta potential 33.3 ± 0.5 and 0.6 ± 0.1 mV, respectively. MnMEIO and MnMEIO-Ex4 NPs with iron content ≤ 40 μg/mL did not affect MIN6 β-cell viability and insulin secretion. Positive iron staining was found in MIN6 β-cells loaded with MnMEIO-Ex4 NPs but not in those with MnMEIO NPs. A transmission electron microscope confirmed MnMEIO-Ex4 NPs were distributed in the cytoplasm of MIN6. In vitro MR images revealed a loss of signal intensity in MIN6 β-cells labeled with MnMEIO-Ex4 NPs but not with MnMEIO NPs. After transplantation of islets labeled with MnMEIO-Ex4, the graft under kidney capsule could be visualized on MRI as persistent hypointense areas up to 17 weeks. Moreover, histology of the islet graft showed positive staining for insulin, glucagon and iron. Our results indicate MnMEIO-Ex4 NPs are safe and effective for the detection and long-term monitoring of transplanted β-cells by MRI.
Controlled Metal–Support Interactions in Au/CeO2–Mg(OH)2 Catalysts Activating the Direct Oxidative Esterification of Methacrolein with Methanol to Methyl Methacrylate
Authors: Kim Nagyeong , Lim Seulgi , Kwon Seungdon , Choi Yuyeol , Lee Ji-Woong , Na Kyungsu
Published: November 2021

The strong metal–support interaction (SMSI) between the three components in Au/CeO2–Mg(OH)2 can be controlled by the relative composition of CeO2 and Mg(OH)2 and by the calcination temperature for the direct oxidative esterification of methacrolein (MACR) with methanol to methyl methacrylate (MMA). The composition ratio of CeO2 and Mg(OH)2 in the catalyst affects the catalytic performance dramatically. An Au/CeO2 catalyst without Mg(OH)2 esterified MACR to a hemiacetal species without MMA production, which confirmed that Mg(OH)2 is a prerequisite for successful oxidative esterification. When Au/Mg(OH)2 was used without CeO2, the direct oxidative esterification of MACR was successful and produced MMA, the desired product. However, the MMA selectivity was much lower (72.5%) than that with Au/CeO2–Mg(OH)2 catalysts, which have an MMA selectivity of 93.9–99.8%, depending on the relative composition of CeO2 and Mg(OH)2. In addition, depending on the calcination temperature, the crystallinity of the CeO2–Mg(OH)2 and the surface acidity/basicity can be remarkably changed. Consequently, the Au-nanoparticle-supported catalysts exhibited different MACR conversions and MMA selectivities. The catalytic behavior can be explained by the different metal–support interactions between the three components depending on the composition ratio of CeO2 and Mg(OH)2 and the calcination temperature. These differences were evidenced by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and CO2 temperature-programmed desorption. The present study provides new insights into the design of SMSI-induced supported metal catalysts for the development of multifunctional heterogeneous catalysts.
Colistin Resistance Onset Strategies and Genomic Mosaicism in Clinical Acinetobacter baumannii Lineages
Authors: Cafiso Viviana , Stracquadanio Stefano , Dovere Veronica , Lo Verde Flavia , Zega Alessandra , Pigola Giuseppe , Barnini Simona , Ghelardi Emilia , Stefani Stefania
Published: November 2021

The treatment of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections is based on colistin. As result, COL-resistance (COL-R) can develop and spread. In Acinetobacter baumannii, a crucial step is to understand COL-R onset and stability, still far to be elucidated. COL-R phenotypic stability, onset modalities, and phylogenomics were investigated in a clinical A. baumannii sample showing a COL resistant (COLR) phenotype at first isolation. COL-R was confirmed by Minimum-Inhibitory-Concentrations as well as investigated by Resistance-Induction assays and Population-Analysis-Profiles (PAPs) to determine: (i) stability; (ii) inducibility; (iii) heteroresistance. Genomics was performed by Mi-Seq Whole-Genome-Sequencing, Phylogenesis, and Genomic Epidemiology by bioinformatics. COLRA. baumannii were subdivided as follows: (i) 3 A. baumannii with stable and high COL MICs defining the “homogeneous-resistant” onset phenotype; (ii) 6 A. baumannii with variable and lower COL MICs displaying a “COL-inducible” onset phenotype responsible for adaptive-resistance or a “subpopulation” onset phenotype responsible for COL-heteroresistance. COL-R stability and onset strategies were not uniquely linked to the amount of LPS and cell envelope charge. Phylogenomics categorized 3 lineages clustering stable and/or unstable COL-R phenotypes with increasing genomic complexity. Likewise, different nsSNP profiling in genes already associated with COL-R marked the stable and/or unstable COL-R phenotypes. Our investigation finds out that A. baumannii can range through unstable or stable COLR phenotypes emerging via different “onset strategies” within phylogenetic lineages displaying increasing genomic mosaicism.
Dynamics of Neospora caninum-Associated Abortions in a Dairy Sheep Flock and Results of a Test-and-Cull Control Programme
Authors: Sánchez-Sánchez Roberto , Vázquez-Calvo Ángela , Fernández-Escobar Mercedes , Regidor-Cerrillo Javier , Benavides Julio , Gutiérrez Jorge , Gutiérrez-Expósito Daniel , Crespo-Ramos Francisco José , Ortega-Mora Luis Miguel , Álvarez-García Gema
Published: November 2021

Neospora caninum is an apicomplexan parasite that can cause abortions and perinatal mortality in sheep. Although ovine neosporosis has been described worldwide, there is a lack of information about the relationship between N. caninum serostatus and the reproductive performance. In this study, we described the infection dynamics in a dairy sheep flock with an abortion rate up to 25% and a N. caninum seroprevalence of 32%. Abortions were recorded in 36% and 9% of seropositive and seronegative sheep, respectively. Seropositive sheep were more likely to abort twice (OR = 4.44) or three or more times (OR = 10.13) than seronegative sheep. Endogenous transplacental transmission was the main route of transmission since 86% of seropositive sheep had seropositive offspring. Within dams that had any abortion, seropositive sheep were more likely than seronegative ones to have female descendants that aborted (OR = 8.12). The slight increase in seropositivity with the age, the low percentage of animals with postnatal seroconversion or with low avidity antibodies, and the seropositivity of one flock dog, indicated that horizontal transmission might have some relevance in this flock. A control programme based on selective culling of seropositive sheep and replacement with seronegative animals was effective in reducing the abortion rate to 7.2%.
Identification and Comparison of Colletotrichum Secreted Effector Candidates Reveal Two Independent Lineages Pathogenic to Soybean
Authors: Boufleur Thaís R. , Massola Júnior Nelson S. , Tikami Ísis , Sukno Serenella A. , Thon Michael R. , Baroncelli Riccardo
Published: November 2021

Colletotrichum is one of the most important plant pathogenic genus of fungi due to its scientific and economic impact. A wide range of hosts can be infected by Colletotrichum spp., which causes losses in crops of major importance worldwide, such as soybean. Soybean anthracnose is mainly caused by C. truncatum, but other species have been identified at an increasing rate during the last decade, becoming one of the most important limiting factors to soybean production in several regions. To gain a better understanding of the evolutionary origin of soybean anthracnose, we compared the repertoire of effector candidates of four Colletotrichum species pathogenic to soybean and eight species not pathogenic. Our results show that the four species infecting soybean belong to two lineages and do not share any effector candidates. These results strongly suggest that two Colletotrichum lineages have acquired the capability to infect soybean independently. This study also provides, for each lineage, a set of candidate effectors encoding genes that may have important roles in pathogenicity towards soybean offering a new resource useful for further research on soybean anthracnose management.
Entomological Surveillance in Former Malaria-endemic Areas of Southern Italy
Authors: Raele Donato Antonio , Severini Francesco , Boccolini Daniela , Menegon Michela , Toma Luciano , Vasco Ilaria , Franco Ettore , Miccolis Pasquale , Desiante Francesco , Nola Vincenzo , Salerno Pietrangelo , Cafiero Maria Assunta , Di Luca Marco
Published: November 2021

Malaria still represents a potential public health issue in Italy, and the presence of former Anopheles vectors and cases imported annually merit continuous surveillance. In areas no longer endemic, the concurrent presence of gametocyte carriers and competent vectors makes re-emergence of local transmission possible, as recently reported in Greece. In October 2017, due to the occurrence of four suspected introduced malaria cases in the province of Taranto (Apulia region), entomological investigations were performed to verify the involvement of local anopheline species. In 2019–2020 entomological surveys were extended to other areas historically prone to malaria between the provinces of Taranto and Matera and the province of Foggia (Gargano Promontory). Resting mosquitoes were collected in animal shelters and human dwellings, larvae were sampled in natural and artificial breeding sites, and specimens were both morphologically and molecularly identified. A total of 2228 mosquitoes were collected, 54.3% of which were anophelines. In all the investigated areas, Anopheles labranchiae was the most widespread species, while Anopheles algeriensis was predominant at the Gargano sites, and Anopheles superpictus and Anopheles plumbeus were recorded in the province of Matera. Our findings showed a potentially high receptivity in the surveyed areas, where the abundance of the two former malaria vectors, An. labranchiae and An. superpictus, is related to environmental and climatic parameters and to anthropic activities.
Patient Satisfaction with Pharmacist-Provided Health-Related Services in a Primary Care Clinic
Authors: Jordan Jacob N. , Wadsworth Thomas G. , Robinson Renee , Hruza Hayli , Paul Amy , O’Connor Shanna K.
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: Patient satisfaction plays an important role in the perceived value, sustained utilization, and coverage of healthcare services by payers and clinics. (2) Methods: A 33-question survey was designed to assess patient satisfaction and perceived value for healthcare services provided by a clinical pharmacist in a single primary care facility. It included general items from validated patient satisfaction surveys (i.e., PROMIS®, CAHPS) and pharmacist-specific items identified in selected literature. It was offered to all patients who were presenting for a new, unique visit with the clinical pharmacist at the medical clinic between May 2019 and April 2020. (3) Results: A total of 66 patients agreed to take the survey (RR = 100%), and the responses were overwhelmingly positive. However, men were more likely than women to report higher satisfaction (X2(1, n = 920) = 0.67, p = 0.027), and new patients reported higher satisfaction than existing patients (X2(1, n = 1211) = 1.698, p = 0.037). (4) Conclusions: The findings of this study indicate a high degree of patient satisfaction with pharmacist-provided healthcare services in the primary care setting.
Anisotropic Non-Kolmogorov Turbulence Spectrum with Anisotropic Tilt Angle
Authors: Zhai Chao
Published: November 2021

With the in-depth study of atmospheric turbulence, scholars have identified that the anisotropy of turbulence cells should not be forgotten. The anisotropic non-Kolmogorov turbulence model can better characterize the actual situation of atmospheric turbulence. However, the results of recent experiments by Wang et al. and Beason et al. demonstrate that the turbulence cell has an anisotropic tilt angle, i.e., the long axis of turbulence cell may not be horizontal to the ground but has a certain angle with the ground. In this paper, we derive the anisotropic non-Kolmogorov turbulence spectra for the horizontal and satellite links with anisotropic tilt angle. Then by use of these spectra, the analytical expressions of scintillation index in the horizontal and satellite links are derived for the weak fluctuation condition. The calculation results display that the scintillation index for the horizontal and satellite links vary with the changes of anisotropic tilt angle and azimuth angle. Therefore, the anisotropic tilt angle is indispensable in the horizontal and satellite links.
Metabolites of Prickly Rose: Chemodiversity and Digestive-Enzyme-Inhibiting Potential of Rosa acicularis and the Main Ellagitannin Rugosin D
Authors: Olennikov Daniil N. , Chemposov Vladimir V. , Chirikova Nadezhda K.
Published: November 2021

Prickly rose (Rosaacicularis Lindl.) is the most distributed rose species in the Northern Hemisphere, used by indigenous people for various food purposes. The lack of detailed information about the chemical composition of R. acicularis has led us to study the phytochemical composition and metabolic profile of prickly rose extracts using chromatographic techniques. Many groups of phenolic and non-phenolic compounds were quantified in the leaves, flowers, roots and fruits of R. acicularis. Phenolic compounds were the dominant phytochemicals in the aerial parts and roots of R. acicularis. A precise study by high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection and electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometric detection showed the presence of 123 compounds, among which ellagic acid derivatives, ellagitannins, gallotannins, catechins, catechin oligomers, hydroxycinnamates and flavonoid glycosides of kaempferol, quercetin and dihydroquercetin were all identified for the first time. The most abundant phenolic compounds were ellagitannins and flavonoid glycosides, with a maximal content of 70.04 mg/g in leaves and 66.72 mg/g in flowers, respectively, indicating the great ability of R. acicularis organs to accumulate phenolic compounds. By applying a standardized static, simulated gastrointestinal digestion method, we found the inhibitory potential of the leaf extract against digestive α-amylases. A pancreatic α-amylase activity-inhibiting assay coupled with HPLC microfractionation demonstrated high inhibition of enzyme activity by ellagitannin rugosin D, which was later confirmed by a microplate reaction with mammalian α-amylases and the simulated digestion method. This study clearly demonstrates that R. acicularis leaf extract and its main component, ellagitannin rugosin D, strongly inhibit digestive α-amylase, and may be a prospective antidiabetic agent.
From Past to Present: Biotechnology in Mexico Using Algae and Fungi
Authors: De Obeso Fernandez Del Valle Alvaro , Scheckhuber Christian Quintus
Published: November 2021

Algae and fungi share a rich history in the fields of basic and applied natural science. In biotechnology, in particular, algae and fungi are of paramount importance, due to the production and development of valuable compounds, such as pharmaceuticals, enzymes, and biofuels. They are also used in waste fermentation, biocontrol of pathogens, and food processing and improvement, among other fields. Although a substantial number of different microorganisms are utilized for these purposes, there lies tremendous potential in uncharacterized microbial species. For this reason, biodiversity hotspots offer a wealth of potential in the discovery of new products and processing strategies based on these microorganisms. This review presents an overview of the use of algae and fungi in pre-Hispanic times/modern-day Mexico for the benefits of mankind. One of our objectives is to raise awareness about the potential of developing research projects for identification and biotechnological utilization of algae and fungi in a megadiverse country, such as Mexico.
Antioxidant Activity of Different Extracts from Black Alder (Alnus glutinosa) Bark with Greener Extraction Alternative
Authors: Lauberts Maris , Pals Matiss
Published: November 2021

Phenolic compounds isolated from plant biomass consist of bioactive components showing a wide range of benefits for humans, including antioxidant, antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory effects. This paper presents the potential value of black alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn. (Betulaceae)) bark for the production of biologically active substances, despite its current use as a low value fuel source. Most of the extraction methods employ neat organic solvents to obtain extracts with a high antioxidant potential from biomass. The aim of this work is to show the advantages and disadvantages of the extraction process by taking into account the principles of ‘green chemistry’ and replacing the organic solvents with ‘green’ solvent water. Using the advantages of accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), it has been shown that the use of deionized water has the prospect of replacing organic solvents. In the case of the one-step water extraction, the total polyphenol content (TPC) varies from 0.55 to 0.62 Gallic acid equivalent (GAE) g/g in the extracts, depending on the temperature, whereas with the result of the sequential extraction with the organic solvents, the TPC content of the 40% (v:v) ethanol extracts ranges from 0.39 to 0.61 GAE g/g, depending on the temperature. The influence of the total polyphenol content and the total proanthocyanidin content on the antioxidant activity is shown. The antioxidant activity (IC50, mg/L) of the extracts obtained with the organic solvents in the (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) DPPH• test varies from 4.05 to 9.58, depending on the temperature in the range of 70–150 °C, respectively, while the results obtained with the deionized water showed promising results in the range of 6.33–7.36 in the temperature range of 70–150 °C, respectively. The extraction with the deionized water showed that approximately 90% of the substances in the extracts obtained with the organic solvents by sequential extraction are possible to obtain as deionized water extracts.
Barley Genotypes Vary in Stomatal Responsiveness to Light and CO2 Conditions
Authors: Hunt Lena , Fuksa Michal , Klem Karel , Lhotáková Zuzana , Oravec Michal , Urban Otmar , Albrechtová Jana
Published: November 2021

Changes in stomatal conductance and density allow plants to acclimate to changing environmental conditions. In the present paper, the influence of atmospheric CO2 concentration and light intensity on stomata were investigated for two barley genotypes—Barke and Bojos, differing in their sensitivity to oxidative stress and phenolic acid profiles. A novel approach for stomatal density analysis was used—a pair of convolution neural networks were developed to automatically identify and count stomata on epidermal micrographs. Stomatal density in barley was influenced by genotype, as well as by light and CO2 conditions. Low CO2 conditions resulted in increased stomatal density, although differences between ambient and elevated CO2 were not significant. High light intensity increased stomatal density compared to low light intensity in both barley varieties and all CO2 treatments. Changes in stomatal conductance were also measured alongside the accumulation of pentoses, hexoses, disaccharides, and abscisic acid detected by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. High light increased the accumulation of all sugars and reduced abscisic acid levels. Abscisic acid was influenced by all factors—light, CO2, and genotype—in combination. Differences were discovered between the two barley varieties: oxidative stress sensitive Barke demonstrated higher stomatal density, but lower conductance and better water use efficiency (WUE) than oxidative stress resistant Bojos at saturating light intensity. Barke also showed greater variability between treatments in measurements of stomatal density, sugar accumulation, and abscisic levels, implying that it may be more responsive to environmental drivers influencing water relations in the plant.
Morphological and Ultrastructural Features of Formation of the Skin of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Kernel
Authors: Chaban Inna A. , Gulevich Alexander A. , Smirnova Elena A. , Baranova Ekaterina N.
Published: November 2021

The integumentary tissues of plant seeds protect the embryo (new sporophyte) forming in them from unfavorable external conditions; therefore, comprehensive knowledge about the structural and functional specificity of seed covers in various plants may be of both theoretical and practical interest. As a result of our study, additional data were obtained on the morphological and ultrastructural features of the formation of a multilayer skin of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) kernel (caryopsis). The ultrastructure research analysis showed that differentiation of the pericarp and inner integument of the ovule leads to the formation of functionally different layers of the skin of mature wheat grain. Thus, the differentiation of exocarp and endocarp cells is accompanied by a significant thickening of the cell walls, which reliably protect the ovule from adverse external conditions. The cells of the two-layer inner integument of the ovule differentiate into cuticular and phenolic layers, which are critical for protecting daughter tissues from various pathogens. The epidermis of the nucellus turns into a layer of mucilage, which apparently helps to maintain the water balance of the seed. Morphological and ultrastructural data showed that the formation of the kernel’s skin occurs in coordination with the development of the embryo and endosperm up to the full maturity of the kernel. This is evidenced by the structure of the cytoplasm and nucleus, characteristic of metabolically active protoplasts of cells, which is observed in most integumentary layers at the late stages of maturation. This activity can also be confirmed by a significant increase in the thickness of the cell walls in the cells of two layers of the exocarp and in cross cells in comparison with the earlier stages. Based on these results, we came to the conclusion that the cells of a majority in the covering tissues of the wheat kernel during its ontogenesis are transformed into specialized layers of the skin by terminal differentiation.
Ionic Polymer Nanocomposites Subjected to Uniaxial Extension: A Nonequilibrium Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Moghimikheirabadi Ahmad , Karatrantos Argyrios V. , Kröger Martin
Published: November 2021

We explore the behavior of coarse-grained ionic polymer nanocomposites (IPNCs) under uniaxial extension up to 800% strain by means of nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations. We observe a simultaneous increase of stiffness and toughness of the IPNCs upon increasing the engineering strain rate, in agreement with experimental observations. We reveal that the excellent toughness of the IPNCs originates from the electrostatic interaction between polymers and nanoparticles, and that it is not due to the mobility of the nanoparticles or the presence of polymer–polymer entanglements. During the extension, and depending on the nanoparticle volume fraction, polymer–nanoparticle ionic crosslinks are suppressed with the increase of strain rate and electrostatic strength, while the mean pore radius increases with strain rate and is altered by the nanoparticle volume fraction and electrostatic strength. At relatively low strain rates, IPNCs containing an entangled matrix exhibit self-strengthening behavior. We provide microscopic insight into the structural, conformational properties and crosslinks of IPNCs, also referred to as polymer nanocomposite electrolytes, accompanying their unusual mechanical behavior.
The Influence of Helium Dielectric Barrier Discharge Jet (DBDjet) Plasma Treatment on Bathocuproine (BCP) in p-i-n-Structure Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Shih Chung-Yueh , Huang Jian-Zhi , Chen Mei-Hsin , Hsu Cheng-Che , Wu Chih-I , Cheng I-Chun , Chen Jian-Zhang
Published: November 2021

A bathocuproine (BCP) layer is typically used as the hole-blocking layer in p-i-n-structure perovskite solar cells (PSCs) between PC61BM and Ag electrodes. Before evaporating the Ag, we used a low-temperature (<40 °C) atmospheric-pressure dielectric barrier discharge jet (DBDjet) to treat the BCP with different scan rates. The main purpose of this was to change the contact resistance between the BCP layer and the Ag electrodes through surface modification using a DBDjet. The best power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 13.11% was achieved at a DBDjet scan rate of 2 cm/s. The He DBDjet treatment introduced nitrogen to form C−N bonds and create pits on the BCP layer. This deteriorated the interface between the BCP and the follow-up deposited-Ag top electrode. Compared to the device without the plasma treatment on the BCP layer, the He DBDjet treatment on the BCP layer reduced photocurrent hysteresis but deteriorated the fill factor and the efficiency of the PSCs.
Effect of the Hemin Molecular Complexes on the Structure and Properties of the Composite Electrospun Materials Based on Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)
Authors: Tyubaeva Polina , Varyan Ivetta , Lobanov Anton , Olkhov Anatoly , Popov Anatoly
Published: November 2021

The creation of innovative fibrous materials based on biodegradable semicrystalline polymers and modifying additives is an urgent scientific problem. In particular, the development of biomedical materials based on molecular complexes and biopolymers with controlled properties is of great interest. The paper suggests an approach to modifying the structure and properties of the composite materials based on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) obtained by the electrospinning method using molecular complexes of hemin. The introduction of 1–5 wt. % of hemin has a significant effect on the supramolecular structure, morphology and properties of PHB-based fibers. Changes in the supramolecular structure intensified with the increasing hemin concentration. On the one hand, a decrease in the fraction of the crystalline phase by 8–10% was observed. At the same time, there is a decrease in the density of the amorphous phase by 15–70%. Moreover, the addition of hemin leads to an improvement in the strength characteristics of the material: the elongation at break increased by 1.5 times, and in the tensile strength, it increased by 3 times. The antimicrobial activity of the hemin-containing composite materials against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus was confirmed. The obtained materials are proposed to be used in the creation of composite systems for regenerative medicine.
Investigation of Solution Behavior of Antidepressant Imipramine Hydrochloride Drug and Non-Ionic Surfactant Mixture: Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Rub Malik Abdul , Azum Naved , Kumar Dileep , Nadeem Arshad Muhammad , Khan Anish , Alotaibi Maha Moteb , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: November 2021

In this paper, the interaction of imipramine hydrochloride (IMP, antidepressant drug) and a non-ionic surfactant Triton X-100 (TX-100) mixture in five different ratios through the tensiometric method in different solvents (aqueous/0.050 mol·kg−1 aqueous NaCl/0.250 mol·kg−1 aqueous urea (U)) were examined thoroughly at a temperature of 298 K. UV–Visible studies in an aqueous system of IMP + TX-100 mixtures were also investigated and discussed in detail. The pure (IMP and TX-100) along with the mixtures’ critical micelle concentration (cmc) were assessed by a tensiometric technique. The obtained deviation of the mixtures’ cmc values from their ideal values revealed the nonideal behavior of IMP + TX-100 mixtures amongst IMP and TX-100. Compared to aqueous systems, in the presence of aqueous NaCl, several changes in micelles/mixed micelles occurred, and hence a synergism/attractive interaction amongst components was found increased while in the existence of U, the synergism/attractive interaction between them decreased. The evaluated interaction parameter (βRb) value of mixed micelles showed the attractive or synergism between the IMP and TX-100. Various evaluated thermodynamic parameters in an aqueous system showed that the mixed micellization of the IMP + TX-100 mixture was an entropically spontaneous phenomenon, although the existence of salt in all studied systems can somewhat increase the spontaneity of the micellization process and in the aqueous U system, the spontaneity of the micellization process decreased. In an aqueous system, the interaction between IMP and TX-100 was also confirmed by UV–Visible study.
Antibacterial and UV Protection Properties of Modified Cotton Fabric Using a Curcumin/TiO2 Nanocomposite for Medical Textile Applications
Authors: Abd El-Hady M. M. , Farouk Asmaa , Saeed S. El-Sayed , Zaghloul Saad
Published: November 2021

Medical textiles are one of the most rapidly growing parts of the technical textiles sector in the textile industry. This work aims to investigate the medical applications of a curcumin/TiO2 nanocomposite fabricated on the surface of cotton fabric. The cotton fabric was pretreated with three crosslinking agents, namely citric acid, 3-Chloro-2-hydroxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (Quat 188) and 3-glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GPTMS), by applying the nanocomposite to the modified cotton fabric using the pad-dry-cure method. The chemistry and morphology of the modified fabrics were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, the chemical mechanism for the nanocomposite-modified fabric was reported. UV protection (UPF) and antibacterial properties against Gram-positive S. aureus and Gram-negative E. coli bacterial strains were investigated. The durability of the fabrics to 20 washing cycles was also examined. Results demonstrated that the nanocomposite-modified cotton fabric exhibited superior antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria than Gram-positive bacteria and excellent UV protection properties. Moreover, a good durability was obtained, which was possibly due to the effect of the crosslinker used. Among the three pre-modifications of the cotton fabric, Quat 188 modified fabric revealed the highest antibacterial activity compared with citric acid or GPTMS modified fabrics. This outcome suggested that the curcumin/TiO2 nanocomposite Quat 188-modified cotton fabric could be used as a biomedical textile due to its antibacterial properties.
Recycling of Silicon Carbide Sludge on the Preparation and Characterization of Lightweight Foamed Geopolymer Materials
Authors: Lo Kang-Wei , Lin Ya-Wen , Cheng Ta-Wui , Lin Kae-Long , Lin Wei-Ting
Published: November 2021

This study used silicon carbide sludge (SCS) to prepare lightweight foaming geopolymer materials (FGPs) by the direct foaming method. Results showed that when the SCS replacement level was 10%, the bulk density of the lightweight FGPs with added foaming agent amounts of 0.5% and 2.0% was 0.59 and 0.49 g/cm3, respectively; at a curing time of 28 days, the lightweight FGPs with amounts of added foaming agent of 0.5% and 2.0% had bulk densities that were 0.65 and 0.58 g/cm3, respectively. When the SCS replacement level was 10%, and the amount of added foaming agent was 2.0%, the porosity ratio of the lightweight FGP increased from 31.88% to 40.03%. The mechanical strength of the lightweight FGPs with SCS replacement levels of 10% and 20% was 0.88 and 0.31 MPa, respectively. Additionally, when the amount of foaming agent increased to 2.0%, the thermal conductivity of the lightweight FGPs with SCS replacement levels of 10% and 20% were 0.370 and 0.456 W/m⋅K, respectively. When the curing time was 1 day, and the amount of added foaming agent was 0.5%, the reverse-side temperature of the lightweight FGPs with SCS replacement levels of 10% and 20% were 286 and 311 °C, respectively. The k value of the O2 reaction decreased from 2.94 × 10−4 to 1.76 × 10−4 because the reaction system was affected by the presence of SiC sludge, which was caused the reaction to consume O2 to form CO2. The results have been proposed to explain that the manufactured lightweight FGPs had a low thermal conductivity (0.370–0.456 W/m⋅K). Therefore, recycling of silicon carbide sludge in lightweight foaming geopolymer materials has potential as fire resistance material for the construction industry.