bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mucosal Relapse of Visceral Leishmaniasis in a Child with SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Colomba Claudia , Boncori Giovanni , Albano Chiara , Garbo Valeria , Bagarello Sara , Condemi Anna , Giordano Salvatore , Cascio Antonio
Published: September 2023

Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania and is transmitted through the bite of infected female sandflies. In the Mediterranean region, visceral leishmaniasis is caused by Leishmania. infantum, and it is usually responsible for symptoms such as fever, pancytopenia and enlargement of the liver and spleen. Relapse is rare in immunocompetent patients as much as the mucous involvement. We present a rare case of mucosal relapse of visceral leishmaniasis in a child with SARS-CoV-2 infection and perform an extensive review of the literature about leishmaniasis relapses in children. Atypical mucosal involvement during Leishmaniasis relapse is an eventuality in pediatric patients. Clinical follow-up and periodic PCR tests must be considered essential for the early recognition and treatment of an eventual relapse.
A Dual-Pathogen Mitral Valve Endocarditis Caused by Coxiella burnetii and Streptococcus gordonii—Which Came First?
Authors: Kaemmerer Ann-Sophie , Ciotola Francesco , Geißdörfer Walter , Harig Frank , Mattner Jochen , Seitz Timo , Suleiman Mathieu N. , Weyand Michael , Heim Christian
Published: September 2023

Infective endocarditis (IE) is still a life-threatening disease with high morbidity and mortality. While usually caused by a single bacterium, poly-microbial infective endocarditis (IE) is rare. Here, we report a (blood-culture-negative) dual pathogen mitral valve IE caused by Coxiella burnetii and Streptococcus gordonii: A 53-year-old woman was presented to an internal medicine department with abdominal pain for further evaluation. Within the diagnostic work up, transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) revealed an irregularly shaped echogenic mass (5 × 13 mm) adherent to the edge of the posterior mitral valve leaflet and protruding into the left atrium. As infected endocarditis was suspected, blood cultures were initially obtained, but they remained negative. Chronic Q fever infection was diagnosed using serologic testing. After the occurrence of cerebral thromboembolic events, the patient was admitted for mitral valve surgery. Intraoperatively, a massively destructed mitral valve with adhering vegetations was noted. Examination of the mitral valve by broad-range bacterial polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and amplicon sequencing confirmed Coxiella burnetii infection and yielded Streptococcus gordonii as the second pathogen. Based on the detailed diagnosis, appropriate antibiotic therapy of both pathogens was initiated, and the patient could be discharged uneventfully on the 11th postoperative day after a successful minimal-invasive mitral valve replacement.
Styrylpyridinium Derivatives for Fluorescent Cell Imaging
Authors: Putralis Reinis , Korotkaja Ksenija , Kaukulis Martins , Rudevica Zhanna , Jansons Juris , Nilova Olga , Rucins Martins , Krasnova Laura , Domracheva Ilona , Plotniece Mara , Pajuste Karlis , Sobolev Arkadij , Rumnieks Felikss , Bekere Laura , Zajakina Anna , Plotniece Aiva , Duburs Gunars
Published: September 2023

A set of styrylpyridinium (SP) compounds was synthesised in order to study their spectroscopic and cell labelling properties. The compounds comprised different electron donating parts (julolidine, p-dimethylaminophenyl, p-methoxyphenyl, 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl), conjugated linkers (vinyl, divinyl), and an electron-withdrawing N-alkylpyridinium part. Geminal or bis-compounds incorporating two styrylpyridinium (bis-SP) moieties at the 1,3-trimethylene unit were synthesised. Compounds comprising a divinyl linker and powerful electron-donating julolidine donor parts possessed intensive fluorescence in the near-infrared region (maximum at ~760 nm). The compounds had rather high cytotoxicity towards the cancerous cell lines HT-1080 and MH-22A; at the same time, basal cytotoxicity towards the NIH3T3 fibroblast cell line ranged from toxic to harmful. SP compound 6e had IC50 values of 1.0 ± 0.03 µg/mL to the cell line HT-1080 and 0.4 µg/mL to MH-22A; however, the basal toxicity LD50 was 477 mg/kg (harmful). The compounds showed large Stokes’ shifts, including 195 nm for 6a,b, 240 nm for 6e, and 325 and 352 nm for 6d and 6c, respectively. The highest photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) values were observed for 6a,b, which were 15.1 and 12.2%, respectively. The PLQY values for the SP derivatives 6d,e (those with a julolidinyl moiety) were 0.5 and 0.7%, respectively. Cell staining with compound 6e revealed a strong fluorescent signal localised in the cell cytoplasm, whereas the cell nuclei were not stained. SP compound 6e possessed self-assembling properties and formed liposomes with an average diameter of 118 nm. The obtained novel data on near-infrared fluorescent probes could be useful for the development of biocompatible dyes for biomedical applications.
The Antitumor Activity of Piplartine: A Review
Authors: Duarte Allana Brunna S. , Gomes Rebeca C. , Nunes Vitória Regina V. , Gonçalves Juan Carlos R. , Correia Camylla A. , dos Santos Ana Zulmira G. , de Sousa Damião P.
Published: September 2023

Cancer is a worldwide health problem with high mortality in children and adults, making searching for novel bioactive compounds with potential use in cancer treatment essential. Piplartine, also known as piperlongumine, is an alkamide isolated from Piper longum Linn, with relevant therapeutic potential. Therefore, this review covered research on the antitumor activity of piplartine, and the studies reported herein confirm the antitumor properties of piplartine and highlight its possible application as an anticancer agent against various types of tumors. The evidence found serves as a reference for advancing mechanistic research on this metabolite and preparing synthetic derivatives or analogs with better antitumor activity in order to develop new drug candidates.
s-Triazine Derivatives Functionalized with Alkylating 2-Chloroethylamine Fragments as Promising Antimicrobial Agents: Inhibition of Bacterial DNA Gyrases, Molecular Docking Studies, and Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity
Authors: Maliszewski Dawid , Demirel Rasime , Wróbel Agnieszka , Baradyn Maciej , Ratkiewicz Artur , Drozdowska Danuta
Published: September 2023

The spectrum of biological properties of s-triazine derivatives is broad and includes anti-microbial, anti-cancer, and anti-neurodegenerative activities, among others. The s-triazine molecule, due to the possibility of substituting three substituents, offers many opportunities to obtain hybrid compounds with a wide variety of activities. A group of 1,3,5 triazine derivatives containing a dipeptide, 2-ethylpiperazine, and a methoxy group as substituents was screened for their antimicrobial activity. An in vitro study was conducted on pathogenic bacteria (E. coli, S. aureus, B. subtilis, and M. luteus), yeasts (C. albicans), and filamentous fungi (A. fumigatus, A. flavus, F. solani, and P. citrinum) via microdilution in broth, and the results were compared with antibacterial (Streptomycin) and antifungal (Ketoconazole and Nystatin) antibiotics. Several s-triazine analogues have minimal inhibitory concentrations lower than the standard. To confirm the inhibitory potential of the most active compounds against gyrases E. coli and S. aureus, a bacterial gyrases inhibition assay, and molecular docking studies were performed. The most active s-triazine derivatives contained the -NH-Trp(Boc)-AlaOMe, -NH-Asp(OtBu)-AlaOMe, and -NH-PheOMe moieties in their structures.
Improved Pharmacokinetic Feasibilities of Mirabegron-1,2-Ethanedisulfonic Acid, Mirabegron-1,5-Naphthalenedisulfonic Acid, and Mirabegron-L-Pyroglutamic Acid as Co-Amorphous Dispersions in Rats and Mice
Authors: Kim Seo-Yeon , You Byung Hoon , Bae Mingoo , Han Seung Yon , Jung Kiwon , Choi Young Hee
Published: September 2023

Mirabegron (MBR) is a β3-adrenoceptor agonist used for treating overactive bladder syndrome. Due to its poor solubility and low bioavailability (F), the development of novel MBR formulations has garnered increasing attention. Recently, co-amorphous dispersions of MBR, such as MBR-1,2-ethanedisulfonic acid (MBR-EFA), MBR-1,5-naphthalenedisulfonic acid (MBR-NDA), and MBR-L-pyroglutamic acid (MBR-PG), have been developed, showing improved solubility and thermodynamic stability. Nevertheless, the pharmacokinetic feasibility of these co-amorphous dispersions has not been evaluated. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the pharmacokinetic profiles of MBR-EFA, MBR-NDA, and MBR-PG in rats and mice. Our results exhibited that relative F24h and AUC0–24h values of MBR in MBR-EFA, MBR-NDA, and MBR-PG rats were increased by 143–195% compared with the MBR rats. The absolute F24h, relative F24h, and AUC0–24h values of MBR in MBR-EFA and MBR-NDA mice were enhanced by 178–234% compared with the MBR mice. In tissue distribution, MBR was extensively distributed in the gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys, lung, and heart of mice. Notably, MBR distribution in the liver, kidneys, and lung was considerably high in MBR-EFA, MBR-NDA, or MBR-PG mice compared with MBR mice. These findings highlight the potential of these co-amorphous dispersions to enhance oral F of MBR.
Co-Dispersion Delivery Systems with Solubilizing Carriers Improving the Solubility and Permeability of Cannabinoids (Cannabidiol, Cannabidiolic Acid, and Cannabichromene) from Cannabis sativa (Henola Variety) Inflorescences
Authors: Stasiłowicz-Krzemień Anna , Szulc Piotr , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta
Published: September 2023

Cannabinoids: cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and cannabichromene (CBC) are lipophilic compounds with limited water solubility, resulting in challenges related to their bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy upon oral administration. To overcome these limitations, we developed co-dispersion cannabinoid delivery systems with the biopolymer polyvinyl caprolactam-polyvinyl acetate-polyethylene glycol (Soluplus) and magnesium aluminometasilicate (Neusilin US2) to improve solubility and permeability. Recognizing the potential therapeutic benefits arising from the entourage effect, we decided to work with an extract instead of isolated cannabinoids. Cannabis sativa inflorescences (Henola variety) with a confirming neuroprotective activity were subjected to dynamic supercritical CO2 (scCO2) extraction and next they were combined with carriers (1:1 mass ratio) to prepare the co-dispersion cannabinoid delivery systems (HiE). In vitro dissolution studies were conducted to evaluate the solubility of CBD, CBDA, and CBC in various media (pH 1.2, 6.8, fasted, and fed state simulated intestinal fluid). The HiE-Soluplus delivery systems consistently demonstrated the highest dissolution rate of cannabinoids. Additionally, HiE-Soluplus exhibited the highest permeability coefficients for cannabinoids in gastrointestinal tract conditions than it was during the permeability studies using model PAMPA GIT. All three cannabinoids exhibited promising blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability (Papp higher than 4.0 × 10−6 cm/s), suggesting their potential to effectively cross into the central nervous system. The improved solubility and permeability of cannabinoids from the HiE-Soluplus delivery system hold promise for enhancement in their bioavailability.
UV Resistance of Super-Hydrophobic Stainless Steel Surfaces Textured by Femtosecond Laser Pulses
Authors: Myronyuk Oleksiy , Baklan Denys , Rodin Aleksej M.
Published: September 2023

The loss of spontaneous liquid repellency on the surface of AISI 304 stainless steel under UV irradiation has been investigated depending on the textures formed by femtosecond laser pulses using Owens–Wendt plot analysis. Laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) have shown less liquid repellency compared to microgrooves. The polarity of the super-hydrophobic non-polar layer increased under UV irradiation to a super-hydrophilic state. The rate of this transition is determined by the surface topography and was faster for LIPSS compared to the bihierarchical textures formed by LIPSS in combination with microgrooves. The applicability of the Owens–Wendt approach for the numerical comparison of the achievable liquid repellency of textured surfaces in the Cassie state and the degree of polarity reversal of the hydrophobic layer was shown.
Comparison between the Propagation Properties of Bessel–Gauss and Generalized Laguerre–Gauss Beams
Authors: Sheppard Colin J. R. , Porras Miguel A.
Published: September 2023

The connections between Laguerre–Gauss and Bessel–Gauss beams, and between Hermite–Gauss and cosine-Gauss beams are investigated. We review different asymptotic expressions for generalized Laguerre and Hermite polynomials of large radial/transverse order. The amplitude variations of generalized Laguerre–Gauss beams, including standard and elegant Laguerre–Gauss beams as special cases, are compared with Bessel–Gauss beams. Bessel–Gauss beams can be well-approximated by elegant Laguerre–Gauss beams. For non-integral values of the Laguerre function radial order, a generalized Laguerre–Gauss beam with integer order matches the width of the central lobe well, even for low radial orders. Previous approximations are found to be inaccurate for large azimuthal mode number (topolgical charge), and an improved approximation for this case is also introduced.
Ribonucleotide and R-Loop Damage in Plastid DNA and Mitochondrial DNA during Maize Development
Authors: Tripathi Diwaker , Oldenburg Delene J. , Bendich Arnold J.
Published: September 2023

Although the temporary presence of ribonucleotides in DNA is normal, their persistence represents a form of DNA damage. Here, we assess such damage and damage defense to DNA in plastids and mitochondria of maize. Shoot development proceeds from meristematic, non-pigmented cells containing proplastids and promitochondria at the leaf base to non-dividing green cells in the leaf blade containing mature organelles. The organellar DNAs (orgDNAs) become fragmented during this transition. Previously, orgDNA damage and damage defense of two types, oxidative and glycation, was described in maize, and now a third type, ribonucleotide damage, is reported. We hypothesized that ribonucleotide damage changes during leaf development and could contribute to the demise of orgDNAs. The levels of ribonucleotides and R-loops in orgDNAs and of RNase H proteins in organelles were measured throughout leaf development and in leaves grown in light and dark conditions. The data reveal that ribonucleotide damage to orgDNAs increased by about 2- to 5-fold during normal maize development from basal meristem to green leaf and when leaves were grown in normal light conditions compared to in the dark. During this developmental transition, the levels of the major agent of defense, RNase H, declined. The decline in organellar genome integrity during maize development may be attributed to oxidative, glycation, and ribonucleotide damages that are not repaired.
Plant Growth Hormones and Micro-Tuberization in Breaking the Seed Dormancy of Bunium persicum (Boiss.) Fedts
Authors: Khan Mudasir Hafiz , Dar Niyaz Ahmad , Alie Bashir Ahmad , Mir Ghulam Hassan , Fayaz Uzma , Khan Azra , Bashir Basharat , Ahmad Ajaz , Mansoor Sheikh , Chung Yong Suk , Heo Seong
Published: September 2023

Bunium persicum is a valuable medicinal plant with limited production but high market demand. It thrives predominantly in high-altitude regions. The main challenges hindering its widespread cultivation are seed dormancy and a lengthy seed-to-seed cycle, making its large-scale cultivation difficult. Six genotypes of Bunium persicum were collected from different altitudes to evaluate its germination behavior and seed dormancy. The study was conducted during 2020–23 and comprised three experiments (viz., seed germination under an open field, controlled conditions, and micro-tuberization). Under open field conditions, germination percent was genotype dependent, and the highest germination percentage, root length, and shoot length were recorded in Shalimar Kalazeera-1. Germination behavior assessment of the Bunium persicum revealed that treatment T9 (GA3 (25 ppm) + TDZ (9 µM/L)) is effective in breaking the dormancy of Bunium persicum as well as in obtaining a higher germination percent for early development of the tubers. Similarly, with regard to the effect of temperature and moisture conditions, stratification under moist chilling conditions showed effectiveness in breaking seed dormancy as the germination percentage in stratified seeds was at par with the most efficient growth hormone. With regard to the in vitro micro-propagation, direct regeneration showed multiple shoot primordia at the base of the tubers without intervening callus phase from the MS medium supplemented with BA (22.2 µM) and NAA (13.95 µM) 4 weeks after sub-culturing. Similarly, medium supplemented with JA (8.0 mg/L) and BA (22.2 µM) produced well-organized somatic embryos with shiny surfaces, which appeared at the swelled basal portion of apical stems. Further, the combination of JA (6.0 mg/L) and BA (22.2 M) was effective in developing the micro-tubers and also enhanced the weight and length of Bunium persicum micro-tubers.
Preventing Overgrowth of Cucumber and Tomato Seedlings Using Difference between Day and Night Temperature in a Plant Factory with Artificial Lighting
Authors: Kim Young Ho , Yang Hwi Chan , Bae Yun Hyeong , Hyeon Soon Jae , Hwang Seung Jae , Kim Dea Hoon , Jang Dong Cheol
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to determine the feasibility of temperature difference as an overgrowth-prevention technique to influence plant height and internode length in a plant factory with artificial lighting. The control plants were grown in a commercial nursery greenhouse using a growth regulator (Binnari), and +DIF (25 °C/15 °C), 0DIF (20 °C/20 °C), and −DIF (15 °C/25 °C) were the treatments with different day/night temperatures and the same average temperature (20 °C). Cucumbers showed the strongest suppression under the −DIF treatment, with a dwarfism rate of 33.3%. Similarly, tomatoes showed 0.8% and 22.2% inhibition in the 0DIF and −DIF treatments, respectively. The FV/FM of cucumber was approximately 0.81 for all treatments. The OJIP changes differed for cucumbers; however, both cucumbers and tomatoes had similar OJIP curve patterns and no abnormalities. The relative growth rate of cucumbers at the growth stage was 1.48 cm·cm·day−1 for days 6–9 in +DIF stage 3, which was the highest growth rate among all treatments, and 0.71 cm·cm·day−1 for days 3–6 in −DIF stage 1, which was the most growth-inhibited treatment. In tomatoes, we found that days 3–6 of −DIF stage 1 had the most growth inhibition at 0.45 cm·cm·day−1. For cucumber, −DIF days 3–6 had the most growth inhibition, with a relative growth rate of 0.71 cm·cm·day−1, but the fidelity was significantly higher than the other treatments, with a 171% increase. The same was true for tomatoes, with days 3–6 of −DIF stage 1 showing the most inhibited growth at 0.45 cm·cm·day−1 but a 200% increase in fidelity. Therefore, applying the −DIF treatment at the beginning of growth would be most effective for both cucumbers and tomatoes to prevent overgrowth through the DIF in a plant factory with artificial lighting because it does not interfere with the seedling physiology and slows down the growth and development stage.
OsGSTU17, a Tau Class Glutathione S-Transferase Gene, Positively Regulates Drought Stress Tolerance in Oryza sativa
Authors: Li Jinyan , Meng Lijun , Ren Shuohan , Jia Chunying , Liu Ruifang , Jiang Hongzhen , Chen Jingguang
Published: September 2023

As a great threat to the normal growth of rice, drought not only restricts the growth of rice, but also affects its yield. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) have antioxidant and detoxification functions. In rice, GSTs can not only effectively cope with biological stress, but also play a defense role against abiotic stress. In this study, we selected OsGSTU17, a member gene that was induced by drought, to explore the role of GSTs and analyze their physiological mechanisms that are involved in rice drought tolerance. With the CRISPR/Cas9 knockout system techniques, we obtained two independent mutant lines of osgstu17. After 14 days of drought stress treatment, and then re-supply of the water for 10 days, the survival rate of the osgstu17 mutant lines was significantly reduced compared to the wild-type (WT). Similarly, with the 10% (w/v) PEG6000 hydroponics experiment at the seedling stage, we also found that compared with the WT, the shoot and root biomass of osgstu17 mutant lines decreased significantly. In addition, both the content of the MDA and H2O2, which are toxic to plants, increased in the osgtu17 mutant lines. On the other hand, chlorophyll and proline decreased by about 20%. The activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase, which react with peroxides, also decreased by about 20%. Under drought conditions, compared with the WT, the expressions of the drought stress-related genes OsNAC10, OsDREB2A, OsAP37, OsP5CS1, OsRAB16C, OsPOX1, OsCATA, and OsCATB in the osgtu17 mutant lines were significantly decreased. Finally, we concluded that knocking out OsGSTU17 significantly reduced the drought tolerance of rice; OsGSTU17 could be used as a candidate gene for rice drought-tolerant cultivation. However, the molecular mechanism of OsGSTU17 involved in rice drought resistance needs to be further studied.
The Genus Sagina (Caryophyllaceae) in Italy: Nomenclatural Remarks
Authors: Iamonico Duilio , Guglielmone Laura , Del Guacchio Emanuele
Published: September 2023

A contribution to the nomenclature of the genus Sagina is presented. The following 10 taxa are recognized as being part of the Italian flora: S. alexandrae, S. apetala, S. glabra, S. maritima, S. micropetala, S. nodosa, S. pilifera, S. procumbens, S. revelierei, and S. saginoides subsp. saginoides. The names S. apetala var. decumbens (=S. apetala subsp. apetala), S. bryoides (=S. procumbens), S. patula (=S. apetala subsp. apetala), S. revelierei, Spergula glabra (=S. glabra), Spergula pilifera (=S. pilifera), and Spergella subulata var. macrocarpa (=S. saginoides subsp. saginoides) are here typified. Specimens deposited at B-W, C, E, and LY, and illustrations by Reichenbach were considered for the typifications. Specifically, two Reichenbach’s illustrations are chosen for S. bryoides and S. saginoides var. macrocarpa. A specimen at B-W is designated as the lectotype of S. glabra. Two specimens at C and G are designated as the lectotypes of S. apetala var. decumbens and S. revelierei, respectively. A specimen at LY is designated for S. patula. As we did not find original material, a neotype at G is designated for S. pilifera.
Genome-Wide Identified MADS-Box Genes in Prunus campanulata ‘Plena’ and Theirs Roles in Double-Flower Development
Authors: Nie Chaoren , Xu Xiaoguo , Zhang Xiaoqin , Xia Wensheng , Sun Hongbing , Li Na , Ding Zhaoquan , Lv Yingmin
Published: September 2023

The MADS-box gene family plays key roles in flower induction, floral initiation, and floral morphogenesis in flowering plants. To understand their functions in the double-flower formation of Prunus campanulata ‘Plena’ (hereafter referred to as PCP), which is an excellent flowering cherry cultivar, we performed genome-wide identification of the MADS-box gene family. In this study, 71 MADS-box genes were identified and grouped into the Mα, Mβ, Mγ and MIKC subfamilies according to their structures and phylogenetic relationships. All 71 MADS-box genes were located on eight chromosomes of PCP. Analysis of the cis-acting elements in the promoter region of MADS-box genes indicated that they were associated mainly with auxin, abscisic acid, gibberellin, MeJA (methyl jasmonate), and salicylic acid responsiveness, which may be involved in floral development and differentiation. By observing the floral organ phenotype, we found that the double-flower phenotype of PCP originated from petaloid stamens. The analysis of MIKC-type MADS-box genes in PCP vegetative and floral organs by qRT–PCR revealed six upregulated genes involved in petal development and three downregulated genes participating in stamen identity. Comparative analysis of petaloid stamens and normal stamens also indicated that the expression level of the AG gene (PcMADS40) was significantly reduced. Thus, we speculated that these upregulated and downregulated genes, especially PcMADS40, may lead to petaloid stamen formation and thus double flowers. This study lays a theoretical foundation for MADS-box gene identification and classification and studying the molecular mechanism underlying double flowers in other ornamental plants.
Fungal–Algal Association Drives Lichens’ Mutualistic Symbiosis: A Case Study with Trebouxia-Related Lichens
Authors: Zuo Ya-Bo , Han Da-Yong , Wang Yan-Yan , Yang Qiu-Xia , Ren Qiang , Liu Xin-Zhan , Wei Xin-Li
Published: September 2023

Biotic and abiotic factors influence the formation of fungal–algal pairings in lichen symbiosis. However, the specific determinants of these associations, particularly when distantly related fungi are involved, remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the impact of different drivers on the association patterns between taxonomically diverse lichenized fungi and their trebouxioid symbiotic partners. We collected 200 samples from four biomes and identified 41 species of lichenized fungi, associating them with 16 species of trebouxioid green algae, of which 62% were previously unreported. The species identity of both the fungal and algal partners had the most significant effect on the outcome of the symbiosis, compared to abiotic factors like climatic variables and geographic distance. Some obviously specific associations were observed in the temperate zone; however, the nestedness value was lower in arid regions than in cold, polar, and temperate regions according to interaction network analysis. Cophylogenetic analyses revealed congruent phylogenies between trebouxioid algae and associated fungi, indicating a tendency to reject random associations. The main evolutionary mechanisms contributing to the observed phylogenetic patterns were “loss” and “failure to diverge” of the algal partners. This study broadens our knowledge of fungal–algal symbiotic patterns in view of Trebouxia-associated fungi.
The Role of Iron in Phytopathogenic Microbe–Plant Interactions: Insights into Virulence and Host Immune Response
Authors: Pandey Sheo Shankar
Published: September 2023

Iron is an essential element required for the growth and survival of nearly all forms of life. It serves as a catalytic component in multiple enzymatic reactions, such as photosynthesis, respiration, and DNA replication. However, the excessive accumulation of iron can result in cellular toxicity due to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the Fenton reaction. Therefore, to maintain iron homeostasis, organisms have developed a complex regulatory network at the molecular level. Besides catalyzing cellular redox reactions, iron also regulates virulence-associated functions in several microbial pathogens. Hosts and pathogens have evolved sophisticated strategies to compete against each other over iron resources. Although the role of iron in microbial pathogenesis in animals has been extensively studied, mechanistic insights into phytopathogenic microbe–plant associations remain poorly understood. Recent intensive research has provided intriguing insights into the role of iron in several plant–pathogen interactions. This review aims to describe the recent advances in understanding the role of iron in the lifestyle and virulence of phytopathogenic microbes, focusing on bacteria and host immune responses.
The Degradation of Antibiotics by Reactive Species Generated from Multi-Gas Plasma Jet Irradiation
Authors: Tanaka Yu-ki , Osawa Taiki , Yamagishi Yoshikazu , Okino Akitoshi , Ogra Yasumitsu
Published: September 2023

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) often causes serious infections in hospitals. Vancomycin is widely accepted as the standard therapy for MRSA infection, but its widespread use has resulted in the generation of vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA). To reduce the potential risk of MRSA and VRSA emergence in aquatic environments, we investigated the degradation of methicillin and vancomycin by cold atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) irradiation using N2, O2, and CO2 gases. The concentrations of methicillin and vancomycin in distilled water were decreased in a time-dependent manner by the plasma jet irradiation; that is, compared with the pre-treatment levels, the concentrations of methicillin and vancomycin were reduced by 20 to 50% after plasma jet irradiation for 10 s. No methicillin and vancomycin signals were detected after 300 s irradiation. Reactive species generated from the plasma jet electrophilically attacked and fragmented the antibiotic molecules. The present method realizes direct plasma ignition in a solution, and therefore, the reactive species can easily react with antibiotic molecules. In addition, plasma can be generated from various gas species that are abundant in the atmosphere. Therefore, cold APPJ irradiation can be a powerful, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly means for the treatment of antibiotics in aqueous samples.
Fluorine-Containing, Self-Assembled Graft Copolymer for Tuning the Hydrophilicity and Antifouling Properties of PVDF Ultrafiltration Membranes
Authors: Moon Seung Jae , Kim Young Jun , Kang Du Ru , Lee So Youn , Kim Jong Hak
Published: September 2023

Neat poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) ultrafiltration (UF) membranes exhibit poor water permeance and surface hydrophobicity, resulting in poor antifouling properties. Herein, we report the synthesis of a fluorine-containing amphiphilic graft copolymer, poly(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate)-g-poly(ethylene glycol) behenyl ether methacrylate (PTFEMA-g-PEGBEM), hereafter referred to as PTF, and its effect on the structure, morphology, and properties of PVDF membranes. The PTF graft copolymer formed a self-assembled nanostructure with a size of 7–8 nm, benefiting from its amphiphilic nature and microphase separation ability. During the nonsolvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) process, the hydrophilic PEGBEM chains were preferentially oriented towards the membrane surface, whereas the superhydrophobic PTFEMA chains were confined in the hydrophobic PVDF matrix. The PTF graft copolymer not only increased the pore size and porosity but also significantly improved the surface hydrophilicity, flux recovery ratio (FRR), and antifouling properties of the membrane. The membrane performance was optimal at 5 wt.% PTF loading, with a water permeance of 45 L m−2 h−1 bar−1, a BSA rejection of 98.6%, and an FRR of 83.0%, which were much greater than those of the neat PVDF membrane. Notably, the tensile strength of the membrane reached 6.34 MPa, which indicated much better mechanical properties than those reported in the literature. These results highlight the effectiveness of surface modification via the rational design of polymer additives and the precise adjustment of the components for preparing membranes with high performance and excellent mechanical properties.
Studies on the Effect of the Addition of Nano-Spherical Particles of Aluminum on the Thermal, Mechanical, and Morphological Properties of PBT–PET Blend Composites
Authors: Alhamidi Abdullah , Anis Arfat , Bashir Zahir , Alam Mohammad Asif , Al-Zahrani Saeed M.
Published: September 2023

In previous works, we had found that the addition of micron-sized, irregular-shaped aluminum (Al) powder, or Al nano platelets (flakes), improved the mechanical properties of polyesters, and that, additionally, the flakes led to an increase in electrical conductivity. The aim of this work was to examine the effect of nano-spherical particles of aluminum in a 60/40 PBT/PET polyester blend. A blend was used because it can help with the formation of a segregated network of metal particles that allows electrical conductivity at low loading. The notched Izod impact of Al nano-spherical composites increased with nano Al content up to an addition level of 2 vol.%. However, the tensile strength and flexural strength decreased gradually with increasing filler loading. Thus, the spherical shape and nano size of the Al particle caused it to be less effective than the micron-sized, irregular-shaped Al powder, or the Al flakes. The reason for this is that, while nano spherical particles have high surface area for bonding with the matrix, the Al–Al aggregation stands in the way of wetting by the polymer melt, whereas aggregation in flakes does not cause as much of a problem. The segregated network structure to enhance electrical conductivity did not form in this blend system with nano spherical particles. The nano-spherical Al acted as a nucleating agent but did not cause transesterification between the two polyesters or make it more susceptible to degradation.
Coloration on Bluish Alginate Films with Amorphous Heterogeneity Thereof
Authors: Yang Soo-Yeon , Kang Dong-Soo , Lee Chang-Yull
Published: September 2023

Using sodium alginate (Alg) aqueous solution containing indigo carmine (IdC) at various concentrations we characterized the rippled surface pattern with micro-spacing on a flexible film as intriguing bluish Alg–IdC iridescence. The characterization was performed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis, and photoluminescence detection. The edge pattern on the film had a maximum depth of 825 nm, a peak-to-peak distance of 63.0 nm, and an average distance of 2.34 nm. The center of the pattern had a maximum depth of 343 nm and a peak-to-peak distance of 162 nm. The pattern spacing rippled irregularly, widening toward the center and narrowing toward the edges. The rippled nano-patterned areas effectively generated iridescence. The ultraviolet absorption spectra of the mixture in the 270 and 615 nm ranges were the same for both the iridescent and non-iridescent film surfaces. By adding Ag+ ions to Alg–IdC, self-assembled microspheres were formed, and conductivity was improved. Cross-linked bluish materials were immediately formed by the addition of Ca2+ ions, and the film was prepared by controlling their concentration. This flexible film can be used in applications such as eco-friendly camouflage, anti-counterfeiting, QR code materials for imaging/sensing, and smart hybrid displays.
Sulfonated Polyether Ketone Membranes Embedded with Nalidixic Acid—An Emerging Controlled Drug Releaser
Authors: Padinjarathil Himabindu , Vilasini Vidya , Balasubramanian Rajalakshmi , Drago Carmelo , Dattilo Sandro , Ramani Prasanna
Published: September 2023

The effective administration of medication has advanced over decades, but the medical community still faces significant demand. Burst release and inadequate assimilation are major drawbacks that affect wound healing efficiency, leading to therapy failure. The widespread application of polymers in biomedical research is significant. The polyether ether ketone (PEEK) family is known for its biocompatibility, inertness, and semi-crystalline thermoplastic properties. In our present studies, we have chosen a member of this family, polyether ketone (PEK), to explore its role as a drug carrier. The PEK backbone was subjected to sulfonation to increase its hydrophilicity. The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the sulfonation process based on the time, degree of sulfonation, and temperature. The PEK polymer was sulfonated using sulfuric acid at 150 °C for 6 h; back titration was performed to quantify the degree of sulfonation, with 69% representing the maximum sulfonation. SPEK and nalidixic sodium salt were dissolved in dichloroacetic acid to create a thin membrane. The physiological and morphological properties were assessed for the SPEK membrane. The studies on drug release in distilled water and a simulated body fluid over the course of 24 h revealed a controlled, gradual increase in the release rate, correlating with a mathematical model and demonstrating the zero-order nature of the drug release. Hemolysis on the SPEK membrane revealed lower toxicity. The SPEK membrane’s biocompatibility was established using in vitro cytotoxicity tests on the Vero (IC50: 137.85 g/mL) cell lines. These results confirm that the SPEK membranes are suitable for sustained drug release.
Intelligent Modelling of the Real Dynamic Viscosity of Rubber Blends Using Parallel Computing
Authors: Kopal Ivan , Labaj Ivan , Vršková Juliána , Harničárová Marta , Valíček Jan , Tozan Hakan
Published: September 2023

Modelling the flow properties of rubber blends makes it possible to predict their rheological behaviour during the processing and production of rubber-based products. As the nonlinear nature of such complex processes complicates the creation of exact analytical models, it is appropriate to use artificial intelligence tools in this modelling. The present study was implemented to develop a highly efficient artificial neural network model, optimised using a novel training algorithm with fast parallel computing to predict the results of rheological tests of rubber blends performed under different conditions. A series of 120 real dynamic viscosity–time curves, acquired by a rubber process analyser for styrene–butadiene rubber blends with varying carbon black contents vulcanised at different temperatures, were analysed using a Generalised Regression Neural Network. The model was optimised by limiting the fitting error of the training dataset to a pre-specified value of less than 1%. All repeated calculations were made via parallel computing with multiple computer cores, which significantly reduces the total computation time. An excellent agreement between the predicted and measured generalisation data was found, with an error of less than 4.7%, confirming the high generalisation performance of the newly developed model.
Effects of Ambient Temperature on the Mechanical Properties of Frictionally Welded Components of Polycarbonate and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Dissimilar Polymer Rods
Authors: Kuo Chil-Chyuan , Gurumurthy Naruboyana , Huang Song-Hua
Published: September 2023

Rotary friction welding (RFW) has no electric arc and the energy consumption during welding can be reduced as compared with conventional arc welding since it is a solid-phase welding process. The RFW is a sustainable manufacturing process because it provides low environmental pollution and energy consumption. However, few works focus on the reliability of dissimilar polymer rods fabricated via RFW. The reliability of the frictionally welded components is also related to the ambient temperatures. This work aims to investigate the effects of ambient temperature on the mechanical properties of frictionally welded components of polycarbonate (PC) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) dissimilar polymer rods. It was found that the heat-affected zone width increases with increasing rotational speeds due to peak welding temperature. The Shore A surface hardness of ABS/PC weld joint does not change with the increased rotational speeds. The Shore A surface hardness in the weld joint of RFW of the ABS/PC is about Shore A 70. The bending strength was increased by about 53% when the welded parts were placed at 60–70 °C compared with bending strength at room temperature. The remarkable finding is that the bending fracture position of the weldment occurs on the ABS side. It should be pointed out that the bending strength can be determined by the placed ambient temperature according to the proposed prediction equation. The impact energy was decreased by about 33% when the welded parts were placed at 65–70 °C compared with the impact energy at room temperature. The impact energy (y) can be determined by the placed ambient temperature according to the proposed prediction equation. The peak temperature in the weld interface can be predicted by the rotational speed based on the proposed equation.
Influence of Ageing on Optical, Mechanical, and Thermal Properties of Agricultural Films
Authors: Rujnić Havstad Maja , Tucman Ines , Katančić Zvonimir , Pilipović Ana
Published: September 2023

Plastic films utilized as greenhouse coverings play a vital role in safeguarding plantations from diverse weather conditions like sunlight, rain, hail, and wind. It is essential for these films to preserve their properties even after extended exposure to sunlight and water, while also maintaining transparency to support the unhindered growth of plants. The purpose of the study was to compare the properties of three types of plastic films: low density polyethylene diffuse film, low density polyethylene clear film, and ethylene tetrafluoroethylene film, before and after their ageing in weather test chamber with xenon-arc light in the presence of moisture. Two distinct types of PE films were chosen based on their suitability for specific regions in Croatia, whereas ETFE film was chosen as a potential new material that is gaining popularity across various industries, including agriculture. The properties investigated were tensile properties, transmittance by spectral analysis, and viscoelastic properties by dynamic mechanical analysis. Also, untreated films and the ones exposed to artificial ageing were compared by means of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The administered tests revealed a certain level of property degradation due to ageing in all three films. However, none of the films showed a substantial level of deterioration, indicating their suitability as greenhouse coverings.
Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles: From Conventional to ‘Modern’ Methods—A Review
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc Phuong Uyen , Dang Ngoc Tung , Doan Linh , Nguyen Thi Thu Hoai
Published: September 2023

Silver nanoparticles, also known as AgNPs, have been extensively researched due to their one-of-a-kind characteristics, including their optical, antibacterial, and electrical capabilities. In the era of the antibiotics crisis, with an increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and a decrease in newly developed drugs, AgNPs are potential candidates because of their substantial antimicrobial activity, limited resistance development, and extensive synergistic effect when combined with other drugs. The effect of AgNPs depends on the delivery system, compound combination, and their own properties, such as shape and size, which are heavily influenced by the synthesis process. Reduction using chemicals or light, irradiation using gamma ray, laser, electron beams or microwave and biological synthesis or a combination of these techniques are notable examples of AgNP synthesis methods. In this work, updated AgNP synthesis methods together with their strength and shortcomings are reviewed. Further, factors affecting the synthesis process are discussed. Finally, recent advances and challenges are considered.
Identification of an Antimicrobial Protease from Acanthamoeba via a Novel Zymogram
Authors: de Obeso Fernández del Valle Alvaro , Melgoza-Ramírez Luis Javier , Esqueda Hernández María Fernanda , Rios-Pérez Alfonso David , Maciver Sutherland K.
Published: September 2023

Proteases play a role in different processes for protozoans and for the free-living amoeba Acanthamoeba. Some of these processes are related to pathogenicity and to encystment. In this study we describe the discovery of a protease with antimicrobial activity produced by Acanthamoeba. To identify it, we developed a novel zymogram using bacteria as an in-gel substrate that can help identify proteins capable of bacterial degradation. We used chromatography to isolate the proteases and showed that it quickly degrades in the environment. Additionally, we identified overexpressed proteases during encystment. The study of proteases from Acanthamoeba can serve several purposes including new antimicrobial proteins that the amoeba can use for potentially predigesting prokaryotes. Secondly, it can help with the identification of potential new therapies against Acanthamoeba infection.
Unraveling Oxygen Transfer Behavior in Submerged Arc Welding Using CaF2-SiO2-CaO Fluxes
Authors: Zhang Jin , Fan Jun , Zhang Dan
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate the transfer behavior of oxygen during the submerged arc welding process using CaF2-SiO2-CaO fluxes. In contrast to previous research that only focused on the final oxygen content in the final weld metal, this study introduces two new parameters, ΔdO and ΔwO, to quantify the oxygen transfer in essential regions: the droplet and weld pool zones, respectively. The transfer behavior of oxygen is analyzed by using typical Multi-Zone and equilibrium models. The results indicate that the Multi-Zone model is capable of capturing the metallurgical processes of oxidation and subsequent reduction during the submerged arc welding process. Moreover, the Multi-Zone model demonstrates superior predictive accuracy in estimating oxygen content in the metal compared to the equilibrium model. Based on measured values and metallurgical data, this article analyzes the oxygen transfer mechanism and non-equilibrium state in the submerged arc welding process from both thermodynamic and kinetic perspectives. Then, scientific hypotheses previously put forward are validated and discussed, which may offer valuable insights and practical guidance for flux design.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Kinetic Characteristics for the LBPRM-EHSPCS System
Authors: Zhang Yuhang , Chen Gexin , Yan Guishan , Li Boyuan , Lu Jianxin , Jiang Wenguang
Published: September 2023

As the ‘heart’ of energy vehicles, the lithium-ion battery is in desperate need of precision improvement, green production, and cost reduction. To achieve this goal, the electro-hydraulic servo pump control system (EHSPCS) is applied to the lithium-ion battery pole rolling mill (LBPRM). However, this development can lead to limited dynamic performance and large power loss as a result of the EHSPCS unique volume direct-drive control mode. At present, how to solve this conflict has not been studied and how the EHSPCS component parameters influence the dynamic response, power loss, and economic performance is not clear. In this paper, a multi-objective optimization (MOO) model for the LBPRM-EHSPCS is proposed by comprehensively considering the dynamic, efficiency, and economic characteristics. Firstly, the evaluation model of the dynamic response, power loss, and cost is investigated. Then, the NSGA-II algorithm is introduced to address the Pareto front of the MOO model. Finally, the power loss and dynamic response of the LBPRM-EHSPCS before and after optimization are tested to validate the viability of the raised method. Results indicate that power loss is decreased by as much as 7.2% while steady-state precision is greatly improved after optimization. The proposed framework enhances the performance in lithium-ion battery manufacturing and can be applied to other kinds of hydraulic systems.