bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic Analysis Reveals Cry1C Gene Transformation Does Not Affect the Sensitivity of Rice to Rice Dwarf Virus
Authors: Chang Xuefei , Ning Duo , Mao Lijuan , Wang Beibei , Fang Qi , Yao Hongwei , Wang Fang , Ye Gongyin
Published: March 2021

Metabolomics is beginning to be used for assessing unintended changes in genetically modified (GM) crops. To investigate whether Cry1C gene transformation would induce metabolic changes in rice plants, and whether the metabolic changes would pose potential risks when Cry1C rice plants are exposed to rice dwarf virus (RDV), the metabolic profiles of Cry1C rice T1C-19 and its non-Bt parental rice MH63 under RDV-free and RDV-infected status were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Compared to MH63 rice, slice difference was detected in T1C-19 under RDV-free conditions (less than 3%), while much more metabolites showed significant response to RDV infection in T1C-19 (15.6%) and in MH63 (5.0%). Pathway analysis showed biosynthesis of lysine, valine, leucine, and isoleucine may be affected by RDV infection in T1C-19. No significant difference in the contents of free amino acids (AAs) was found between T1C-19 and MH63 rice, and the free AA contents of the two rice plants showed similar responses to RDV infection. Furthermore, no significant differences of the RDV infection rates between T1C-19 and MH63 were detected. Our results showed the Cry1C gene transformation did not affect the sensitivity of rice to RDV, indicating Cry1C rice would not aggravate the epidemic and dispersal of RDV.
Investigation of Cylindrical Piezoelectric and Specific Multi-Channel Circular MEMS-Transducer Array Resonator of Ultrasonic Ablation
Authors: Liou Jian-Chiun , Peng Chih-Wei , Chen Zhen-Xi
Published: March 2021

Background: A cylindrical piezoelectric element and a specific multi-channel circular microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-transducer array of ultrasonic system were used for ultrasonic energy generation and ablation. A relatively long time is required for the heat to be conducted to the target position. Ultrasound thermal therapy has great potential for treating deep hyperplastic tissues and tumors, such as breast cancer and liver tumors. Methods: Ultrasound ablation technology produces thermal energy by heating the surface of a target, and the heat gradually penetrates to the target’s interior. Beamforming was performed to observe energy distribution. A resonance method was used to generate ablation energy for verification. Energy was generated according to the coordinates of geometric graph positions to reach the ablation temperature. Results: The mean resonance frequency of Channels 1–8 was 2.5 MHz, and the cylindrical piezoelectric ultrasonic element of Channel A was 4.2546 Ω at 5.7946 MHz. High-intensity ultrasound has gradually been applied in clinical treatment. Widely adopted, ultrasonic hyperthermia involves the use of high-intensity ultrasound to heat tissues at 42–45 °C for 30–60 min. Conclusion: In the ultrasonic energy method, when the target position reaches a temperature that significantly reduces the cell viability (46.9 °C), protein surface modification occurs on the surface of the target.
Combined Effects of Carotenoids and Polyphenols in Balancing the Response of Skin Cells to UV Irradiation
Authors: Calniquer Glenda , Khanin Marina , Ovadia Hilla , Linnewiel-Hermoni Karin , Stepensky David , Trachtenberg Aviram , Sedlov Tanya , Braverman Oleg , Levy Joseph , Sharoni Yoav
Published: March 2021

Oral carotenoids and polyphenols have been suggested to induce photo-protective effects. The aim of the study was to test whether the combination of carotenoids and polyphenols produce greater protective effects from UV-induced damage to skin cells. Such damage is characterized by inflammation and oxidative stress; thus, the photo-protective effect can be partially explained by modulating the nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) and antioxidant response element/Nrf2 (ARE/Nrf2) transcription systems, known as important regulators of these two processes. Indeed, it was found in keratinocytes that carotenoids and polyphenols inhibit UVB-induced NFκB activity and release of cytokine IL-6. A combination of tomato extract with rosemary extract inhibited UVB-induced release of IL-6 more than each of the compounds alone. Moreover, this combination synergistically activated ARE/Nrf2 transcription systems. Inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNFα induce the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which leads to collagen breakdown; thus, it is important to note that carnosic acid reduced TNFα-induced MMP-1 secretion from human dermal fibroblasts. The in vitro results suggest beneficial effects of phytonutrient combinations on skin health. To assure that clinical experiments to prove such effects in humans are feasible, the human bioavailability of carotenoids from tomato extract was tested, and nearly a twofold increase in their plasma concentrations was detected. This study demonstrates that carotenoids and polyphenols cooperate in balancing UV-induced skin cell damage, and suggests that NFκB and ARE/Nrf2 are involved in these effects.
New Electroactive Polymers with Electronically Isolated 4,7-Diarylfluorene Chromophores as Positive Charge Transporting Layer Materials for OLEDs
Authors: Krucaite Gintare , Tavgeniene Daiva , Blazevicius Dovydas , Zhang Baohua , Vembris Aivars , Grigalevicius Saulius
Published: March 2021

A group of polyethers containing electroactive pendent 4,7-diarylfluorene chromophores have been prepared by the multi-step synthetic route. Full characterization of their structures has been presented. The polymeric materials represent derivatives of high thermal stability with initial thermal degradation temperatures in a range of 392–397 °C. Glass transition temperatures of the amorphous polymers range from 28 °C to 63 °C and depend on structures of the 4,7-diarylfluorene chromophores. Electron photoemission spectra of thin layers of the electroactive derivatives showed ionization potentials in the range of 5.8–6.0 eV. Hole injecting/transporting properties of the prepared polymeric materials were confirmed during formation of organic light-emitting diodes with tris(quinolin-8-olato)aluminium (Alq3) as a green emitter, which also serves as an electron transporting layer. The device using hole-transporting polymer with electronically isolated 2,7-di(4-biphenyl)fluorene chromophores demonstrated the best overall performance with low turn on voltage of 3 V, high current efficiency exceeding 1.7 cd/A, and with maximum brightness over 200 cd/m2. The organic light-emitting diode (OLED) characteristics were measured in non-optimized test devices. The efficiencies could be further improved by an optimization of device structure, formation conditions, and encapsulation of the devices.
The Ameliorative Effects of Fucoidan in Thioacetaide-Induced Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Tsai Ming-Yang , Yang Wei-Cheng , Lin Chuen-Fu , Wang Chao-Min , Liu Hsien-Yueh , Lin Chen-Si , Lin Jen-Wei , Lin Wei-Li , Lin Tzu-Chun , Fan Pei-Shan , Hung Kuo-Hsiang , Lu Yu-Wen , Chang Geng-Ruei
Published: March 2021

Liver disorders have been recognized as one major health concern. Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide extracted from the brown seaweed Fucus serratus, has previously been reported as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. However, the discovery and validation of its hepatoprotective properties and elucidation of its mechanisms of action are still unknown. The objective of the current study was to investigate the effect and possible modes of action of a treatment of fucoidan against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver injury in male C57BL/6 mice by serum biochemical and histological analyses. The mouse model for liver damage was developed by the administration of TAA thrice a week for six weeks. The mice with TAA-induced liver injury were orally administered fucoidan once a day for 42 days. The treated mice showed significantly higher body weights; food intakes; hepatic antioxidative enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD)); and a lower serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Additionally, a reduced hepatic IL-6 level and a decreased expression of inflammatory-related genes, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA was observed. These results demonstrated that fucoidan had a hepatoprotective effect on liver injury through the suppression of the inflammatory responses and acting as an antioxidant. In addition, here, we validated the use of fucoidan against liver disorders with supporting molecular data.
Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors from Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. and Their Efficient Detections by HPTLC and HPLC Analyses
Authors: Gainche Maël , Ogeron Clémence , Ripoche Isabelle , Senejoux François , Cholet Juliette , Decombat Caroline , Delort Laetitia , Berthon Jean-Yves , Saunier Etienne , Caldefie Chezet Florence , Chalard Pierre
Published: March 2021

Filipendula ulmaria is a plant commonly used for the treatment of several pathologies, such as diarrhoea, ulcers, pain, stomach aches, fevers, and gout. Our study focused on the use of F. ulmaria for the treatment of gout disease. We first studied the chemical composition of a methanolic extract of the aerial parts and demonstrated its xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity. Then, we performed a fractionation and evaluated the most XO inhibitory active fractions by UV measurement. Purification of some fractions allowed the determination of the inhibitory activity of pure compounds. We demonstrated that spiraeoside, a glycosylated flavonoid, possesses an activity around 25 times higher than allopurinol, used as a reference in the treatment of gout disease. In order to easily and quickly identify potent inhibitors in complex matrix, we developed a complementary strategy based on an HPLC method and an Effect Directed Assay (EDA) method combining HPTLC and biochemical assays. The HPLC method, capable of determining compounds exhibiting interactions with the enzyme, could be an efficient strategy for evaluating potent enzyme inhibitors in a complex mixture. This strategy could be applied for quantitative assays using LC/MS experiments.
Discovery of Novel Sultone Fused Berberine Derivatives as Promising Tdp1 Inhibitors
Authors: Gladkova Elizaveta D. , Chepanova Arina A. , Ilina Ekaterina S. , Zakharenko Alexandra L. , Reynisson Jóhannes , Luzina Olga A. , Volcho Konstantin P. , Lavrik Olga I. , Salakhutdinov Nariman F.
Published: March 2021

A new type of berberine derivatives was obtained by the reaction of berberrubine with aliphatic sulfonyl chlorides. The new polycyclic compounds have a sultone ring condensed to C and D rings of a protoberberine core. The reaction conditions were developed to facilitate the formation of sultones with high yields without by-product formation. Thus, it was shown that the order of addition of reagents affects the composition of the reaction products: when sulfochlorides are added to berberrubine, their corresponding 9-O-sulfonates are predominantly formed; when berberrubine is added to pre-generated sulfenes, sultones are the only products. The reaction was shown to proceed stereo-selectively and the cycle configuration was confirmed by 2D NMR spectroscopy. The inhibitory activity of the synthesized sultones and their 12-brominated analogs against the DNA-repair enzyme tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (Tdp1), an important target for a potential antitumor therapy, was studied. All derivatives were active in the micromolar and submicromolar range, in contrast to the acyclic analogs and 9-O-sulfonates, which were inactive. The significance of the sultone cycle and bromine substituent in binding with the enzyme was confirmed using molecular modeling. The active inhibitors are mostly non-toxic to the HeLa cancer cell line, and several ligands show synergy with topotecan, a topoisomerase 1 poison in clinical use. Thus, novel berberine derivatives can be considered as candidates for adjuvant therapy against cancer.
Polysaccharide-Based Multilayer Nano-Emulsions Loaded with Oregano Oil: Production, Characterization, and In Vitro Digestion Assessment
Authors: Espinosa-Sandoval Luz , Ochoa-Martínez Claudia , Ayala-Aponte Alfredo , Pastrana Lorenzo , Gonçalves Catarina , Cerqueira Miguel A.
Published: March 2021

The food industry has increased its interest in using “consumer-friendly” and natural ingredients to produce food products. In the case of emulsifiers, one of the possibilities is to use biopolymers with emulsification capacity, such as octenyl succinic anhydride modified starch, which can be used in combination with other polysaccharides, such as chitosan and carboxymethylcellulose, in order to improve the capacity to protect bioactive compounds. In this work, multilayer nano-emulsion systems loaded with oregano essential oil were produced by high energy methods and characterized. The process optimization was carried out based on the evaluation of particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential. Optimal conditions were achieved for one-layer nano-emulsions resulting in particle size and zeta potential of 180 nm and −42 mV, two layers (after chitosan addition) at 226 nm and 35 mV, and three layers (after carboxymethylcellulose addition) of 265 nm and −1 mV, respectively. The encapsulation efficiency of oregano essential oil within nano-emulsions was 97.1%. Stability was evaluated up to 21 days at 4 and 20 °C. The three layers nano-emulsion demonstrated to be an efficient delivery system of oregano essential oil, making 40% of the initial oregano essential oil available versus 13% obtained for oregano essential oil in oil, after exposure to simulated digestive conditions.
Fabrication of Silver-Decorated Graphene Oxide Nanohybrids via Pulsed Laser Ablation with Excellent Antimicrobial and Optical Limiting Performance
Authors: Nancy Parvathy , Jose Jiya , Joy Nithin , Valluvadasan Sivakumaran , Philip Reji , Antoine Rodolphe , Thomas Sabu , Kalarikkal Nandakumar
Published: March 2021

The demand for metallic nanoparticle ornamented nanohybrid materials of graphene oxide (GO) finds copious recognition by virtue of its advanced high-tech applications. Far apart from the long-established synthesis protocols, a novel laser-induced generation of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) that are anchored onto the GO layers by a single-step green method named pulsed laser ablation has been exemplified in this work. The second and third harmonic wavelengths (532 nm and 355 nm) of an Nd:YAG pulsed laser is used for the production of Ag NPs from a bulk solid silver target ablated in an aqueous solution of GO to fabricate colloidal Ag-GO nanohybrid materials. UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and TEM validate the optical, structural, and morphological features of the hybrid nanomaterials. The results revealed that the laser-assisted in-situ deposition of Ag NPs on the few-layered GO surface improved its antibacterial properties, in which the hybrid nanostructure synthesized at a longer wavelength exhibited higher antibacterial action resistance to Escherichia coli (E. coli) than Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria. Moreover, nonlinear optical absorption (NLA) of Ag-GO nanohybrid was measured using the open aperture Z-scan technique. The Z-scan results signify the NLA properties of the Ag-GO hybrid material and have a large decline in transmittance of more than 60%, which can be employed as a promising optical limiting (OL) material.
Palm Fruit Bioactive Complex (PFBc), a Source of Polyphenols, Demonstrates Potential Benefits for Inflammaging and Related Cognitive Function
Authors: Hewlings Susan J. , Draayer Kristin , Kalman Douglas S.
Published: March 2021

Cognitive function is a key aspect of healthy aging. Inflammation associated with normal aging, also called inflammaging is a primary risk factor for cognitive decline. A diet high in fruits and vegetable and lower in calories, particularly a Mediterranean Diet, may lower the risk of age-related cognitive decline due in part to the associated high intake of antioxidants and polyphenols. A phenolic, Palm Fruit Bioactive complex (PFBc) derived from the extraction process of palm oil from oil palm fruit (Elaeis guineensis), is reported to offset inflammation due to its high antioxidant, especially vitamin E, and polyphenol content. The benefit is thought to be achieved via the influence of antioxidants on gene expression. It is the purpose of this comprehensive review to discuss the etiology, including gene expression, of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) specific to dietary intake of antioxidants and polyphenols and to focus on the potential impact of nutritional interventions specifically PFBc has on MCI. Several in vitro, in vivo and animal studies support multiple benefits of PFBc especially for improving cognitive function via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms. While more human studies are needed, those completed thus far support the benefit of consuming PFBc to enhance cognitive function via its anti-inflammatory antioxidant functions.
Genomics and Personalized Nutrition
Authors: Rudkowska Iwona
Published: March 2021

Genomics technologies can be used to study the relationship between the human genome, nutrition, and health [...]
Twelve-Week Mediterranean Diet Intervention Increases Citrus Bioflavonoid Levels and Reduces Inflammation in People with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Al-Aubaidy Hayder A. , Dayan Aanchal , Deseo Myrna A. , Itsiopoulos Catherine , Jamil Dina , Hadi Najah R. , Thomas Colleen J.
Published: March 2021

The benefits of a Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) in the management of diabetes have been reported, but the contribution of polyphenol-rich citrus fruit has not been studied widely. Here, we report the sub-study findings of a previously conducted MedDiet intervention clinical trial in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), where we aimed to measure the diet intervention effects on plasma citrus bioflavonoids levels and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. We analysed plasma samples from 19 (of original 27) participants with T2DM who were randomly assigned to consume the MedDiet intervention or their usual diet for 12 weeks and then crossed over to the alternate diet. Compared with baseline, MedDiet significantly increased levels of the citrus bioflavonoids naringin, hesperitin and hesperidin (by 60%, 58% and 39%, respectively, p < 0.05) and reduced plasma levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 (by 49%, p = 0.016). Oxidative stress marker 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) decreased by 32.4% (p = 0.128). Usual diet did not induce these beneficial changes. The reduced inflammatory profile of T2DM participants may, in part, be attributed to the anti-inflammatory actions of citrus bioflavonoids. Together with indications of improved oxidative stress, these findings add to the scientific evidence base for beneficial consumption of citrus fruit in the MedDiet pattern.
Magnesium: Biochemistry, Nutrition, Detection, and Social Impact of Diseases Linked to Its Deficiency
Authors: Fiorentini Diana , Cappadone Concettina , Farruggia Giovanna , Prata Cecilia
Published: March 2021

Magnesium plays an important role in many physiological functions. Habitually low intakes of magnesium and in general the deficiency of this micronutrient induce changes in biochemical pathways that can increase the risk of illness and, in particular, chronic degenerative diseases. The assessment of magnesium status is consequently of great importance, however, its evaluation is difficult. The measurement of serum magnesium concentration is the most commonly used and readily available method for assessing magnesium status, even if serum levels have no reliable correlation with total body magnesium levels or concentrations in specific tissues. Therefore, this review offers an overview of recent insights into magnesium from multiple perspectives. Starting from a biochemical point of view, it aims at highlighting the risk due to insufficient uptake (frequently due to the low content of magnesium in the modern western diet), at suggesting strategies to reach the recommended dietary reference values, and at focusing on the importance of detecting physiological or pathological levels of magnesium in various body districts, in order to counteract the social impact of diseases linked to magnesium deficiency.
The Influence of Parental Dietary Behaviors and Practices on Children’s Eating Habits
Authors: Mahmood Lubna , Flores-Barrantes Paloma , Moreno Luis A. , Manios Yannis , Gonzalez-Gil Esther M.
Published: March 2021

Poor dietary habits established during childhood might persist into adulthood, increasing the risk of developing obesity and obesity-related complications such as Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It has been found that early modifications in eating habits, especially during childhood, might promote health and decrease the risk of developing diseases during later life. Various studies found a great influence of parental dietary habits on dietary behaviors of their children regardless of demographic characteristics such as gender, age, socioeconomic status and country; however, the exact mechanism is still not clear. Therefore, in this review, we aimed to investigate both parents’ and children’s dietary behaviors, and to provide evidence for the potential influence of parents’ dietary behaviors and practices on certain children’s eating habits. Family meals were found to contribute the most in modeling children’s dietary habits as they represent an important moment of control and interaction between parents and their children. The parental practices that influenced their children most were role modeling and moderate restriction, suggesting that the increase of parental encouragement and decrease of excessive pressure could have a positive impact in their children’s dietary behaviors. This narrative review highlights that parental child-feeding behaviors should receive more attention in research studies as modifiable risk factors, which could help to design future dietary interventions and policies to prevent dietary-related diseases.
Designing Multifunctional Devices for Regenerative Pharmacology Based on 3D Scaffolds, Drug-Loaded Nanoparticles, and Thermosensitive Hydrogels: A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Colucci Francesco , Mancini Vanessa , Mattu Clara , Boffito Monica
Published: March 2021

Regenerative pharmacology combines tissue engineering/regenerative medicine (TERM) with drug delivery with the aim to improve the outcomes of traditional TERM approaches. In this work, we aimed to design a multicomponent TERM platform comprising a three-dimensional scaffold, a thermosensitive hydrogel, and drug-loaded nanoparticles. We used a thermally induced phase separation method to obtain scaffolds with anisotropic mechanical properties, suitable for soft tissue engineering. A thermosensitive hydrogel was developed using a Poloxamer® 407-based poly(urethane) to embed curcumin-loaded nanoparticles, obtained by the single emulsion nanoprecipitation method. We found that encapsulated curcumin could retain its antioxidant activity and that embedding nanoparticles within the hydrogel did not affect the hydrogel gelation kinetics nor the possibility to progressively release the drug. The porous scaffold was easily loaded with the hydrogel, resulting in significantly enhanced (4-fold higher) absorption of a model molecule of nutrients (fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran 4kDa) from the surrounding environment compared to pristine scaffold. The developed platform could thus represent a valuable alternative in the treatment of many pathologies affecting soft tissues, by concurrently exploiting the therapeutic effects of drugs, with the 3D framework acting as a physical support for tissue regeneration and the cell-friendly environment represented by the hydrogel.
Recent Advances in Biomedical, Therapeutic and Pharmaceutical Applications of Microbial Surfactants
Authors: Ceresa Chiara , Fracchia Letizia , Fedeli Emanuele , Porta Chiara , Banat Ibrahim M.
Published: March 2021

The spread of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens typically existing in biofilm formation and the recent COVID-19 pandemic, although unrelated phenomena, have demonstrated the urgent need for methods to combat such increasing threats. New avenues of research for natural molecules with desirable properties to alleviate this situation have, therefore, been expanding. Biosurfactants comprise a group of unique and varied amphiphilic molecules of microbial origin capable of interacting with lipidic membranes/components of microorganisms and altering their physicochemical properties. These features have encouraged closer investigations of these microbial metabolites as new pharmaceutics with potential applications in clinical, hygiene and therapeutic fields. Mounting evidence has indicated that biosurfactants have antimicrobial, antibiofilm, antiviral, immunomodulatory and antiproliferative activities that are exploitable in new anticancer treatments and wound healing applications. Some biosurfactants have already been approved for use in clinical, food and environmental fields, while others are currently under investigation and development as antimicrobials or adjuvants to antibiotics for microbial suppression and biofilm eradication strategies. Moreover, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, biosurfactants are now being explored as an alternative to current products or procedures for effective cleaning and handwash formulations, antiviral plastic and fabric surface coating agents for shields and masks. In addition, biosurfactants have shown promise as drug delivery systems and in the medicinal relief of symptoms associated with SARS-CoV-2 acute respiratory distress syndrome.
A Model-Based Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Analysis of the Combination of Amoxicillin and Monophosphoryl Lipid A Against S. pneumoniae in Mice
Authors: Franck Sebastian , Michelet Robin , Casilag Fiordiligie , Sirard Jean-Claude , Wicha Sebastian G. , Kloft Charlotte
Published: March 2021

Combining amoxicillin with the immunostimulatory toll-like receptor 4 agonist monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) represents an innovative approach for enhancing antibacterial treatment success. Exploiting pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data from an infection model of Streptococcus pneumoniae infected mice, we aimed to evaluate the preclinical exposure-response relationship of amoxicillin with MPLA coadministration and establish a link to survival. Antibiotic serum concentrations, bacterial numbers in lung and spleen and survival data of mice being untreated or treated with amoxicillin (four dose levels), MPLA, or their combination were analyzed by nonlinear mixed-effects modelling and time-to-event analysis using NONMEM® to characterize these treatment regimens. On top of a pharmacokinetic interaction, regarding the pharmacodynamic effects the combined treatment was superior to both monotherapies: The amoxicillin efficacy at highest dose was increased by a bacterial reduction of 1.74 log10 CFU/lung after 36 h and survival was increased 1.35-fold to 90.3% after 14 days both compared to amoxicillin alone. The developed pharmacometric pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic disease-treatment-survival models provided quantitative insights into a novel treatment option against pneumonia revealing a pharmacokinetic interaction and enhanced activity of amoxicillin and the immune system stimulator MPLA in combination. Further development of this drug combination flanked with pharmacometrics towards the clinical setting seems promising.
Kinked Bisamides as Efficient Supramolecular Foam Cell Nucleating Agents for Low-Density Polystyrene Foams with Homogeneous Microcellular Morphology
Authors: Klose Bastian , Kremer Daniel , Aksit Merve , Zwan Kasper P. van der , Kreger Klaus , Senker Jürgen , Altstädt Volker , Schmidt Hans-Werner
Published: March 2021

Polystyrene foams have become more and more important owing to their lightweight potential and their insulation properties. Progress in this field is expected to be realized by foams featuring a microcellular morphology. However, large-scale processing of low-density foams with a closed-cell structure and volume expansion ratio of larger than 10, exhibiting a homogenous morphology with a mean cell size of approximately 10 µm, remains challenging. Here, we report on a series of 4,4′-diphenylmethane substituted bisamides, which we refer to as kinked bisamides, acting as efficient supramolecular foam cell nucleating agents for polystyrene. Self-assembly experiments from solution showed that these bisamides form supramolecular fibrillary or ribbon-like nanoobjects. These kinked bisamides can be dissolved at elevated temperatures in a large concentration range, forming dispersed nano-objects upon cooling. Batch foaming experiments using 1.0 wt.% of a selected kinked bisamide revealed that the mean cell size can be as low as 3.5 µm. To demonstrate the applicability of kinked bisamides in a high-throughput continuous foam process, we performed foam extrusion. Using 0.5 wt.% of a kinked bisamide yielded polymer foams with a foam density of 71 kg/m3 and a homogeneous microcellular morphology with cell sizes of ≈10 µm, which is two orders of magnitude lower compared to the neat polystyrene reference foam with a comparable foam density.
Process–Structure–Properties in Polymer Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Sing Swee , Yeong Wai
Published: March 2021

Additive manufacturing (AM) methods have grown and evolved rapidly in recent years [...]
Antibacterial Chitosan Nanofiber Thin Films with Bacitracin Zinc Salt
Authors: Kumamoto Kazutaka , Maeda Toshinari , Hayakawa Satoshi , Mustapha Nurul Asyifah Binti , Wang Meng-Jiy , Shirosaki Yuki
Published: March 2021

Chitosan nanofiber has a highly uniform structure of 20–50 nm in diameter and shows high dispersibility in water due to its submicron size and high surface-to-volume ratio. The stacked nanofibers film is useful for breathability because it has a gap with a size of several tens of nm or more. However, the chemical bonds between the nanofibers cannot be broken during use. In this study, the thin films were obtained by filtration of chitosan nanofibers and 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GPTMS) mixture. The addition of GPTMS changed the wettability, mechanical property and stability in water of the thin films. Bacitracin zinc salt (BZ) has been used for the localized dermatological medicines and loaded in the films. BZ interacted electrostatically with the thin films matrix and the release of BZ was controlled by the amount of GPTMS. A higher released amount of BZ showed higher antibacterial effects toward S. aureus. The film was also tested their toxicity by L929 fibroblasts. The release of less than 11.9 μg of BZ showed antibacterial effects, but were not toxic for fibroblast cells.
Remote Detection of Surge-Related Glacier Terminus Change across High Mountain Asia
Authors: Vale Amelia B. , Arnold Neil S. , Rees W. Gareth , Lea James M.
Published: March 2021

High Mountain Asia (HMA) hosts the largest glacier concentration outside of polar regions. It is also distinct glaciologically as it forms one of two major surge clusters globally, and many glaciers there contradict the globally observed glacier recession trend. Surging glaciers are critical to our understanding of HMA glacier dynamics, threshold behaviour and flow instability, and hence have been the subject of extensive research, yet many dynamical uncertainties remain. Using the cloud-based geospatial data platform, Google Earth Engine (GEE) and GEE-developed tool, GEEDiT, to identify and quantify trends in the distribution and phenomenological characteristics of surging glaciers synoptically across HMA, we identified 137 glaciers as surging between 1987–2019. Of these, 55 were newly identified, 15 glaciers underwent repeat surges, and 18 were identified with enhanced glaciological hazard potential, most notably from Glacier Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). Terminus position time series analysis from 1987–2019 facilitated the development of a six-part phenomenological classification of glacier behaviour, as well as quantification of surge variables including active phase duration, terminus advance distance and rate, and surge periodicity. This research demonstrates the application of remote sensing techniques and the GEE platform to develop our understanding of surging glacier distribution and terminus phenomenology across large areas, as well as their ability to highlight potential geohazard locations, which can subsequently be used to focus monitoring efforts.
Introduction to the Special Issue “A Systemic Perspective on Urban Food Supply: Assessing Different Types of Urban Agriculture”
Authors: Artmann Martina , Specht Kathrin , Vávra Jan , Rommel Marius
Published: March 2021

The production of food within cities through urban agriculture can be considered as a nature-based solution and is argued to be an important response to the current COVID-19 pandemic as well as to climate change and other urban challenges. However, current research on urban agriculture is still fragmented, calling for a systematic and integrative assessment of different forms of urban agriculture and the drivers and constraints for their effective realization. In this context, the Special Issue presents conceptual and empirical research articles from around the world on the impact and implementation potential of various types of urban agriculture. The studies of this Special Issue cover a broad range of impact and implementation dimensions, asssessment methods and geographical backgrounds that can support future studies to develop a systemic perspective on urban food production.
Seroprevalence of Infection with Feline Morbilliviruses Is Associated with FLUTD and Increased Blood Creatinine Concentrations in Domestic Cats
Authors: Busch Johannes , Heilmann Romy M. , Vahlenkamp Thomas W. , Sieg Michael
Published: March 2021

Feline morbilliviruses (FeMV) are fairly newly discovered paramyxoviruses found in cats. The first description indicated an association with widely distributed chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the host species. In various studies, a global prevalence and a further genotype, designated FeMV-2, and the involvement of other organ systems in infected individuals were shown. Using an immunofluorescence assay, we detected an overall seroprevalence of FeMV in almost half of the cats investigated (n = 380), with a significantly increased proportion in younger animals. In comparison to European Shorthair cats, the rate of seropositivity is higher in pedigree cats. Regardless of the breed, FeMV infection was associated with increased blood creatinine concentrations, suggesting an association with CKD. Further analysis indicated that this association was the strongest in animals having high IFA titers against FeMV-2. In addition, a significant association between FeMV-positive status and the prevalence of feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD, or idiopathic cystitis) was detected. This association was dominated by cats having antibodies against FeMV-1 only. To further evaluate the positive correlation between FeMV seroprevalence and CKD as well as FLUTD, consideration of additional clinical characteristics and laboratory parameters is warranted, and controlled infection studies with both FeMV genotypes are necessary. Clinicians should, however, be aware of a possible link between renal and lower urinary tract disease and FeMV infections.
Distance Estimation in Reproduction Tasks in a Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina)
Authors: Maaß Eric , Hanke Frederike D.
Published: March 2021

Harbor seals commute between haul-out places and feeding grounds close to the shore or in the open ocean, which is considered a low structured environment, at first sight not providing many cues for orientation/navigation. Nevertheless, seals are well-oriented. For returning to a specific location, seals may use both external and internal cues to, for example, perform path integration requiring the integration of distances traveled and angles steered. We herein assessed the seal’s ability to estimate distances, previously swum or unknown, in reproduction tasks. Reproduction tasks refer to an experimental paradigm in which the experimental animal is required to swim a specific distance first and subsequently reproduce this distance, with visual cues present or absent. The seal was able to estimate and then reproduce distances (0.5–18.5 m) with the smallest error below 10% of the actual distance, and its precision was higher with distances repeatedly swum compared to its performance with unfamiliar distances. In the absence of visual cues, the seal’s performance slightly dropped; however, it was still able to perform the task with an error of 21%. In conclusion, distance estimation may help seals to navigate precisely towards their goals, even if, for example, visual information is not available.
Usos e criações de tecnologias pelo cuidador familiar de idosos na atenção domiciliar
Authors:   , Toledo Sandra Trindade
Published: March 2021

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Tendência temporal das internações hospitalares por doença inflamatória pélvica no Brasil e grandes regiões
Authors:   , Perciney Patrick
Published: March 2021

A doença inflamatória pélvica (DIP) é um processo inflamatório que afeta as estruturas do trato genital superior tais como: útero, tubas uterinas, ovários e estruturas anexas, provocando endometrite, salpingite, ooforite, abscesso do tubo ovárico, e peritonite. Tal grupo de doenças atinge as mulheres em todo o mundo, trazendo sérias consequências para a saúde, gastos com tratamentos e hospitalizações. A DIP é considerada uma das principais causas de infertilidade tubal e fator de risco para a gravidez ectópica. A DIP geralmente é consequência de infecção por Chlamydia trachomatis e Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Os principais fatores de risco são: múltiplos parceiros sexuais, história prévia de DIP e infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST), imunossupressão e endometriose. Considerando que no Brasil a porta de entrada para o sistema de saúde é a atenção primária, as características da DIP se enquadram como uma condição sensível a esse nível de atenção. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a tendência temporal das internações hospitalares por doença inflamatória pélvica em mulheres no Brasil e nas grandes regiões. Estudo ecológico longitudinal, cujo público alvo foi mulheres com idade de 10 anos e mais que tiveram internação hospitalar registrada no Sistema de Informações Hospitalares do SUS–SIH/SUS no Brasil no período de 2000 a 2019. Utilizou-se o programa Excel para computar as taxas de internações padronizadas. Num segundo momento, o programa estatístico Joinpoint foi utilizado para estimar os modelos de regressão segmentada. Este modelo de regressão permitiu estimar a variação anual média para o período do estudo e os pontos (anos) de modificação da tendência. As maiores taxas foram registradas na região Norte e Nordeste. Os resultados encontrados denotaram tendência geral de queda das internações em quase todas as faixas etárias e em todas as regiões. A faixa etária de 10 a 19 anos foi a única que apresentou aumento significativo nas regiões Sudeste no período de 2008 a 2019 e na região Nordeste no período de 2014 a 2019. A análise dos modelos joinpoint denota que a taxa de internação por DIP no Brasil como um todo teve uma redução média de 5,2% ao ano durante o período de 2000 a 2019. A região Centro-Oeste teve a maior redução média anual (8,1%), seguida das regiões Nordeste (5,7%), Sudeste (5,0%), Norte (4,6%) e Sul (4,3%). As faixas etárias com maior redução no período foram de 60 a 69 anos no Brasil, no Nordeste e no Sudeste, de 50 a 59 anos no Norte, de 80 anos e mais no Sul e de 20 a 29 anos no Centro-Oeste. A redução de internação por DIP provavelmente está atrelada ao aumento do acesso à atenção primária no período estudado. Destacamos também, a necessidade de ampliar as políticas públicas voltadas para a saúde da mulher, principalmente na faixa etária de 10 a 19 anos. Neste contexto insere-se também a criação de programas de prevenção e conscientização sobre a DIP, assim como as consequências de comportamento de risco para as IST.
Alocação ótima de baterias em sistemas de distribuição considerando a vida útil e redução de perdas
Authors:   , Octaviano Maria Elisa Fernandes
Published: March 2021

Com o objetivo de melhorar aspectos relacionados à eficiência dos sistemas de distribuição, o uso de dispositivos de armazenamento de energia tem se mostrado uma alternativa viável e com aplicação diversificada. Os sistemas de armazenamento de energia, formados por baterias, permitem que sua operação seja gerenciada, especificando assim momentos de carga e descarga de acordo com objetivos de interesse. Neste trabalho, desenvolve-se um método para operação e alocação otimizadas de baterias no sistema elétrico de potência com o objetivo de redução de perdas de energia elétrica também considerando o impacto que o gerenciamento da operação pode ter sobre a vida útil das baterias. São realizadas análises para mostrar até que ponto o uso de baterias compensa para reduzir perdas e em que ponto o dispositivo deixa de ser interessante para este objetivo, observando-se o comportamento de variáveis presentes no problema. Para a modelagem dos sistemas de armazenamento com baterias considera-se o acoplamento temporal característico do comportamento destes dispositivos. Suas possibilidades de atuação dependem de operações anteriores. Para modelar estas questões, foi utilizada a técnica das Séries Temporais Quase Estáticas associadas à solução do fluxo de potência. Sendo que o problema de fluxo de potência foi solucionado através do software OpenDSS. A alocação bem como a operação otimizada dos sistemas de armazenamento foi realizada através de Algoritmos Genéticos. O método foi testado para diferentes sistemas de distribuição com o intuito de demonstrar sua aplicabilidade.
Método analítico para localização de faltas monofásicas em sistemas de distribuição
Authors:   , Rodrigues Victor Tadeu da Silva
Published: March 2021

Cada vez mais os sistemas de distribuição de energia elétrica se tornam extensos e complexos devido ao crescimento da demanda nos centros rurais e urbanos. Dessa forma, faz-se necessário intensificar as boas práticas de operação e manutenção da rede para que a energia possa ser entregue com qualidade. Dentre essas atividades, mostramse de grande importância aquelas relacionadas a detecção, localização e eliminação de faltas nos sistemas de distribuição. As faltas são distúrbios frequentes nos sistemas e resultam em prejuízos e insatisfação dos consumidores e multas para as concessionárias. Para contribuir com estas atividades, destaca-se o uso de metodologias eficientes para a localização de faltas, que buscam auxiliar os engenheiros e técnicos a realizar a localização de faltas de maneira mais rápida e mais precisa. Diante da importância do tema, o presente trabalho tem por objetivo o desenvolvimento de um método que visa à localização de faltas de alta impedância (HIFs) em sistemas de distribuição. O método se baseia na utilização das componentes de sequência zero circulantes nos alimentadores de média tensão do sistema, as quais são obtidas a partir de medidores fasoriais posicionados ao longo do alimentador. Para as simulações foi utilizado o software PSCAD® e foram simulados três sistemas, incluindo o sistema IEEE 34 barras, o qual foi modificado para que características específicas das redes reais de distribuição pudessem ser simuladas e o método verificado. Nesse sistema foram incluídas variações de carga, indutâncias mútuas entre os cabos dos alimentadores, cargas desbalanceadas, bancos de capacitores e reguladores de tensão. Foi dado um enfoque em falta monofásica, tendo em vista que este é o tipo de curto-circuito mais recorrente nessas redes. Os resultados mostram elevada precisão e robustez do método.
О геологическом и изотопном возрасте золоторудных месторождений на примере золото-серебряного месторождения Кубака (Северо-Восток России)
Authors:   Research Geotechnological Center FEB RAS, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Stepanov V. A.
Published: March 2021

Information on the geological and isotopic age of the Kubaka gold-silver deposit in the Omolon middle massif in the North-East of Russia is presented. It has been established that the Kubaka deposit geological age lies in between the Late Devonian age of the Kedon series volcanites, containing the gold-silver mineralization, and the Early Carboniferous age of the Korbinsky suite terrigenous rocks, overlapping the volcanites and the mineralization. The post-ore nature of the Omolon complex dykes, which produce no significant impact on the distribution of gold mineralization in ore bodies, is shown. According to isotope dating, the following stages of the Kubaka deposit formation are distinguished: the accumulation of the Kubaka suite tuffs (369 Ma); the introduction of subvolcanic intrusions (344 and 337 Ma); the formation of ore metasomatites (335±5 Ma); the formation of gold-silver mineralization (330 and 334 - 324 Ma); the introduction of post-ore dikes (179±8 - 176±10 Ma).
Морская граница в прибрежно-морском природопользовании и вариант ее выделения по глубине
Authors:   Pacific Geographical Institute, FEB RAS, Vladivostok, Sorokin P. S.
Published: March 2021

The existing approaches and regulations for the determination of the marine boundaries of the part of coastal-marine natural management are analyzed. There are no uniform boundaries in the direction toward the sea, despite the presence of numerous definitions of the coastal zone. For the purposes of maritime activities management, i.e. coastal and oceanic natural management, the geomorphological definition of the coastal zone becomes insufficient due to the greater dependence on the land space. Therefore, it is proposed to use the term "coastal-marine zone" with a broader definition, including, in addition to territorial, coastal and aquatic structures. The coastal-sea zone boundaries can be established depending on the research objectives. In our research, we suggest to establish this kind of depth boundary, considering it a limiting factor of marine economic activities.
Материалы к фауне стафилинид (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) тундр Камчатки (подсемейства Steninae, Euaesthetinae, Paederinae и Staphylininae)
Authors:   Institute of Biological Problems of the North, FEB RAS, Magadan, Ryabukhin А. S.
Published: March 2021

The article presents results of summarizing publications and studying the material collected in various districts of Kamchatka. 22 species of rove beetles from 7 genera, belonging to the Steninae, Euaesthetinae, Paederinae, and Staphylininae subfamilies, are recorded for the Kamchatka tundra fauna. Species identity of Quedius (Raphirus) cf. fellmani (Zetterstedt, 1838), Q. (R.) cf. fulvicollis (Stephens, 1833), and Q. (R.) cf. sublimbatus Mäklin, 1853 from the subfamily Staphylininae requires updating. An annotated list has been compiled. Collecting localities are mapped.