bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transradial Embolization, an Underused Type of Uterine Artery Embolization Approach: A Systematic Review
Authors: Himiniuc Loredana Maria , Murarasu Mara , Toma Bogdan , Popovici Razvan , Grigore Ana-Maria , Scripcariu Ioana-Sadiye , Oancea Mihaela , Grigore Mihaela
Published: January 2021

Background and Objectives: The most utilized approach for the embolization of uterine arteries is the transfemoral path. However, the transradial approach (TRA) has been gaining popularity among cardiologic interventions in the last years but only few studies have shown its applicability in uterine myoma treatment. The objective of this paper is to assess the feasibility, safety and efficacy of TRA when compared with the transbrachial, transulnar or transfemoral approach (TFA) for uterine arteries embolization (UAE). Materials and methods: A systematic review of the literature that analyzes the TRA for UAE it was carried out, in order to assess its safety and effectiveness. It was systematically searched the literature (Google Scholar, PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and Embase) using the words “uterine artery embolization”/“uterine embolization” and “transradial”/“radial”. All the relevant papers published until March 2020 were retrieved and analyzed. Results: Ten studies were considered eligible for this topic. TRA is a comparable method with TFA for uterine artery embolization. Conclusions: These studies allowed us to conclude that TRA is as safe and efficient as TFA. Its advantages include few complications, shorter hospitalization period, and rapid mobilization but a steeper learning curve has the disadvantage of a longer learning curve compared to TFA. Yet, these findings are built on few reports and more research is needed.
Aquatic Bacterial Diversity, Community Composition and Assembly in the Semi-Arid Inner Mongolia Plateau: Combined Effects of Salinity and Nutrient Levels
Authors: Tang Xiangming , Xie Guijuan , Shao Keqiang , Tian Wei , Gao Guang , Qin Boqiang
Published: January 2021

Due to the recent decades of climate change and intensive human activities, endorheic lakes are threatened by both salinization and eutrophication. However, knowledge of the aquatic bacterial community’s response to simultaneous increasing salinity and trophic status is still poor. To address this knowledge gap, we collected 40 surface water samples from five lakes and six rivers on the semi-arid Inner Mongolia Plateau, and investigated their bacterial communities using 16S rRNA gene-targeted amplicon sequencing. We found that bacterial species diversity significantly decreased from the mesotrophic freshwater river habitat to the eutrophic high-brackish lake habitat; salinity was more important than trophic status in explaining this decreased diversity. Salinity was the most important environmental factor in shaping community composition, while increased nitrogen loading was more important in structuring predicted functional composition. Within the lake habitats, the impact of environmental filtering on bacterial community assembly increased with the increasing salinity. The results suggested that the elevated salinity and nutrients have combined effects on the aquatic bacterial community, resulting in dramatic declines in species diversity, and promoted the importance of deterministic processes in community assembly. Our findings provide new insights into bacterial communities’ responses to the intensified climate-driven and anthropogenic environmental changes in aquatic ecosystems.
Disentangling Responses of the Subsurface Microbiome to Wetland Status and Implications for Indicating Ecosystem Functions
Authors: Gao Jie , Liu Miao , Shi Sixue , Liu Ying , Duan Yu , Lv Xianguo , Bohu Tsing , Li Yuehui , Hu Yuanman , Wang Na , Wang Qiuying , Zhuang Guoqiang , Zhuang Xuliang
Published: January 2021

In this study, we analyzed microbial community composition and the functional capacities of degraded sites and restored/natural sites in two typical wetlands of Northeast China—the Phragmites marsh and the Carex marsh, respectively. The degradation of these wetlands, caused by grazing or land drainage for irrigation, alters microbial community components and functional structures, in addition to changing the aboveground vegetation and soil geochemical properties. Bacterial and fungal diversity at the degraded sites were significantly lower than those at restored/natural sites, indicating that soil microbial groups were sensitive to disturbances in wetland ecosystems. Further, a combined analysis using high-throughput sequencing and GeoChip arrays showed that the abundance of carbon fixation and degradation, and ~95% genes involved in nitrogen cycling were increased in abundance at grazed Phragmites sites, likely due to the stimulating impact of urine and dung deposition. In contrast, the abundance of genes involved in methane cycling was significantly increased in restored wetlands. Particularly, we found that microbial composition and activity gradually shifts according to the hierarchical marsh sites. Altogether, this study demonstrated that microbial communities as a whole could respond to wetland changes and revealed the functional potential of microbes in regulating biogeochemical cycles.
In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Three Newly Isolated Bacteriophage Candidates, phiEF7H, phiEF14H1, phiEF19G, for Treatment of Enterococcus faecalis Endophthalmitis
Authors: Kishimoto Tatsuma , Ishida Waka , Nasukawa Tadahiro , Ujihara Takako , Nakajima Isana , Suzuki Takashi , Uchiyama Jumpei , Todokoro Daisuke , Daibata Masanori , Fukushima Atsuki , Matsuzaki Shigenobu , Fukuda Ken
Published: January 2021

Post-operative endophthalmitis caused by Enterococcus spp. progresses rapidly and often results in substantial and irreversible vision loss. Therefore, novel alternative treatments that are effective against enterococcal endophthalmitis are required. Bacteriophage therapy has the potential to be an optional therapy for infectious diseases. Therefore, we investigated the therapeutic potential of three newly isolated enterococcal phages, phiEF7H, phiEF14H1, and phiEF19G, in E. faecalis-induced endophthalmitis. These phages could lyse the broad-range E. faecalis, including strains derived from endophthalmitis and vancomycin-resistant E. faecalis in vitro, as determined by the streak test. Morphological and genomic analyses revealed that these phages were classified into the Herelleviridae genus Kochikohdavirus. The whole genomes of these phages contained 143,399, 143,280, and 143,400 bp, respectively. Endophthalmitis was induced in mice by injection of three strains of E. faecalis derived from post-operative endophthalmitis or vancomycin-resistant strains into the vitreous body. The number of viable bacteria and infiltration of neutrophils in the eye were both decreased by intravitreous injection of phiEF7H, phiEF14H1, and phiEF19G 6 h after injection of all E. faecalis strains. Thus, these results suggest that these newly isolated phages may serve as promising candidates for phage therapy against endophthalmitis.
Medieval Pb (Cu-Ag) Smelting in the Colline Metallifere District (Tuscany, Italy): Slag Heterogeneity as a Tracer of Ore Provenance and Technological Process
Authors: Chiarantini Laura , Benvenuti Marco , Bianchi Giovanna , Dallai Luisa , Volpi Vanessa , Manca Rosarosa
Published: January 2021

Archaeological investigations of the Colline Metallifere district (Southern Tuscany, Italy) have highlighted several Medieval sites located close to the main Cu-Pb-Fe (Ag) ore occurrences. This study is focused on the investigation of late-medieval slags from Cugnano and Montieri sites using both geochemical and mineralogical methods to understand slag heterogeneities as result of ore differences and technological processes. Matte-rich slags present in both sites (with abundant matte ± speiss and frequent relict phases) represent waste products related to primary sulphide ore smelting to obtain a raw lead bullion. The distribution of slags between the Ca-rich or Fe-rich dominant composition, and the consequent mineralogy, are tracers of the different ore–gangue association that occurred in the two sites. Silver is present only in very small matte-rich slags and ores enclosed within the mortar of the Montieri site; wastes derived from silver-rich mineral charges were probably crushed for the recovery of silver. Matte-poor slags found at Montieri represent a second smelting; raw lead bullion obtained from matte slags (both Fe- and Ca-rich) was probably re-smelted, adding silica and Al2O3-phase-rich fluxes, under more oxidizing conditions to reduce metal impurities. This second step was probably employed for Zn-rich lead ores; this process helped to segregate zinc within slags and improve the quality of the metal.
Treatment of Hypolimnion Water on Mineral Aggregates as the Second Step of the Hypolimnetic Withdrawal Method Used for Lake Restoration
Authors: Łożyńska Justyna , Dunalska Julita A. , Bańkowska-Sobczak Agnieszka , Zhang Li , Mitsch William J.
Published: January 2021

The study aimed to assess the usefulness of mineral aggregates in orthophosphate (OP) removal from hypolimnetic water withdrawn from eutrophic lakes. Two low-cost and easily available reactive materials were tested: lightweight expanded clay aggregate (LECA) and crushed limestone (LS). Their performance regarding OP removal and the effect on the pH, Ca2+, Mg2+, N-NO3 and N-NH4 concentrations of treated water were investigated in a column experiment with four-filter beds made of LECA and amended with LS (additions of 0, 25, 50 and 75% of the bed volume). The highest OP removal (>50%) was achieved in LECA beds with high (75% by volume) amendments of LS. Neither LECA nor LS distinctly affected the pH (maximum pH increase, from 7.1 or 7.2 to 7.6, occurred in the case of the LECA bed). In real-life conditions, it is not feasible to install a full-scale bed made of these mineral aggregates on the outflow from a lake due to the large required size of such a bed. At the operation time set for 30 d, the size of a bed would need to reach between 6113.2 and 12,226.4 m3. The proposed bed should be just one of the elements of an integrated treatment system. Constructions consisting of sorption beds ought to be coupled with adequately designed zones of aquatic vegetation. Three conceptional solutions were proposed for in situ treatment of the withdrawn water, differing in arrangement and construction of the potential sorption bed. Application of such solutions should be regarded as a substantial improvement of Olszewski’s method, as it can mitigate the pollution of downstream ecosystems.
Potential of Lyophilized Platelet Concentrates for Craniofacial Tissue Regenerative Therapies
Authors: Ngah Nurul Aida , Ratnayake Jithendra , Cooper Paul R. , Dias George J. , Tong Darryl C. , Mohd Noor Siti Noor Fazliah , Hussaini Haizal Mohd
Published: January 2021

Objective: The use of platelet concentrates (PCs) in oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontology, and craniofacial surgery has been reported. While PCs provide a rich reservoir of autologous bioactive growth factors for tissue regeneration, their drawbacks include lack of utility for long-term application, low elastic modulus and strength, and limited storage capability. These issues restrict their broader application. This review focuses on the lyophilization of PCs (LPCs) and how this processing approach affects their biological and mechanical properties for application as a bioactive scaffold for craniofacial tissue regeneration. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search of five electronic databases, including Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus, was conducted from 1946 until 2019 using a combination of search terms relating to this topic. Results: Ten manuscripts were identified as being relevant. The use of LPCs was mostly studied in in vitro and in vivo craniofacial bone regeneration models. Notably, one clinical study reported the utility of LPCs for guided bone regeneration prior to dental implant placement. Conclusions: Lyophilization can enhance the inherent characteristics of PCs and extends shelf-life, enable their use in emergency surgery, and improve storage and transportation capabilities. In light of this, further preclinical studies and clinical trials are required, as LPCs offer a potential approach for clinical application in craniofacial tissue regeneration.
A Valence-Bond-Based Multiconfigurational Density Functional Theory: The λ-DFVB Method Revisited
Authors: Zheng Peikun , Ji Chenru , Ying Fuming , Su Peifeng , Wu Wei
Published: January 2021

A recently developed valence-bond-based multireference density functional theory, named λ-DFVB, is revisited in this paper. λ-DFVB remedies the double-counting error of electron correlation by decomposing the electron–electron interactions into the wave function term and density functional term with a variable parameter λ. The λ value is defined as a function of the free valence index in our previous scheme, denoted as λ-DFVB(K) in this paper. Here we revisit the λ-DFVB method and present a new scheme based on natural orbital occupation numbers (NOONs) for parameter λ, named λ-DFVB(IS), to simplify the process of λ-DFVB calculation. In λ-DFVB(IS), the parameter λ is defined as a function of NOONs, which are straightforwardly determined from the many-electron wave function of the molecule. Furthermore, λ-DFVB(IS) does not involve further self-consistent field calculation after performing the valence bond self-consistent field (VBSCF) calculation, and thus, the computational effort in λ-DFVB(IS) is approximately the same as the VBSCF method, greatly reduced from λ-DFVB(K). The performance of λ-DFVB(IS) was investigated on a broader range of molecular properties, including equilibrium bond lengths and dissociation energies, atomization energies, atomic excitation energies, and chemical reaction barriers. The computational results show that λ-DFVB(IS) is more robust without losing accuracy and comparable in accuracy to high-level multireference wave function methods, such as CASPT2.
Exploring the Ability of Luminescent Metal Assemblies to Bind and Sense Anionic or Ionizable Analytes A Ru(phen)2bipy-Based Dizinc Complex for Bisphenol A (BPA) Recognition
Authors: Conti Luca , Mummolo Liviana , Romano Giammarco Maria , Giorgi Claudia , Giacomazzo Gina Elena , Prodi Luca , Bencini Andrea
Published: January 2021

The synthesis of a new RuII complex, in which the metal is coordinated by two 1,10-phenanthroline ligands and a 2,2′-bipyridyl unit linked, via methylene bridges in its 4 and 4′ positions, to two 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane (cyclen) macrocycles ([Ru(phen)2L]2+) is reported. Protonation and ZnII binding by [Ru(phen)2L]2+ have been analyzed by potentiometric titration, evidencing the formation of mixed hetero-binuclear and hetero-trinuclear ZnII/RuII complexes. These complexes were tested as bis-phenol A (BPA) binders. Only the dizinc complex with [Ru(phen)2L]2+ is able to bind BPA in aqueous solution, affording a remarkably stable {Zn2[Ru(phen)2L]BPA(H−2)}4+ adduct at neutral pH, in which BPA is bound in its doubly deprotonated form to the two ZnII ions. BPA binding was found to quench the luminescence emission of the RuII(phen)2bipy core. Although the quenching effect is modest, this study demonstrates that appropriately designed dizinc complexes can be used for binding and optical sensing of BPA in water.
Spin Exchanges between Transition Metal Ions Governed by the Ligand p-Orbitals in Their Magnetic Orbitals
Authors: Whangbo Myung-Hwan , Koo Hyun-Joo , Kremer Reinhard K.
Published: January 2021

In this review on spin exchanges, written to provide guidelines useful for finding the spin lattice relevant for any given magnetic solid, we discuss how the values of spin exchanges in transition metal magnetic compounds are quantitatively determined from electronic structure calculations, which electronic factors control whether a spin exchange is antiferromagnetic or ferromagnetic, and how these factors are related to the geometrical parameters of the spin exchange path. In an extended solid containing transition metal magnetic ions, each metal ion M is surrounded with main-group ligands L to form an MLn polyhedron (typically, n = 3–6), and the unpaired spins of M are represented by the singly-occupied d-states (i.e., the magnetic orbitals) of MLn. Each magnetic orbital has the metal d-orbital combined out-of-phase with the ligand p-orbitals; therefore, the spin exchanges between adjacent metal ions M lead not only to the M–L–M-type exchanges, but also to the M–L…L–M-type exchanges in which the two metal ions do not share a common ligand. The latter can be further modified by d0 cations A such as V5+ and W6+ to bridge the L…L contact generating M–L…A…L–M-type exchanges. We describe several qualitative rules for predicting whether the M–L…L–M and M–L…A…L–M-type exchanges are antiferromagnetic or ferromagnetic by analyzing how the ligand p-orbitals in their magnetic orbitals (the ligand p-orbital tails, for short) are arranged in the exchange paths. Finally, we illustrate how these rules work by analyzing the crystal structures and magnetic properties of four cuprates of current interest: α-CuV2O6, LiCuVO4, (CuCl)LaNb2O7, and Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2.
Efficient PbS Quantum Dot Solar Cells with Both Mg-Doped ZnO Window Layer and ZnO Nanocrystal Interface Passivation Layer
Authors: Ren Hao , Xu Ao , Pan Yiyang , Qin Donghuan , Hou Lintao , Wang Dan
Published: January 2021

In this paper, a Mg-doped ZnO (MZO) thin film is prepared by a simple solution process under ambient conditions and is used as the window layer for PbS solar cells due to a wide n-type bandgap. Moreover, a thin layer of ZnO nanocrystals (NCs) was deposited on the MZO to reduce carrier recombination at the interface for inverted PbS quantum dot solar cells with the configuration Indium Tin Oxides (ITO)/MZO/ZnO NC (w/o)/PbS/Au. The effect of film thickness and annealing temperature of MZO and ZnO NC on the performance of PbS quantum dot solar cells was investigated in detail. It was found that without the ZnO NC thin layer, the highest power conversion efficiency(PCE) of 5.52% was obtained in the case of a device with an MZO thickness of 50 nm. When a thin layer of ZnO NC was introduced between MZO and PbS quantum dot film, the PCE of the champion device was greatly improved to 7.06% due to the decreased interface recombination. The usage of the MZO buffer layer along with the ZnO NC interface passivation technique is expected to further improve the performance of quantum dot solar cells.
A TiO2 Coated Carbon Aerogel Derived from Bamboo Pulp Fibers for Enhanced Visible Light Photo-Catalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Zhang Jian , Yuan Wei , Xia Tian , Ao Chenghong , Zhao Jiangqi , Huang Bingxue , Wang Qunhao , Zhang Wei , Lu Canhui
Published: January 2021

Carbon aerogels (CA) derived from bamboo cellulose fibers were coupled with TiO2 to form CA/TiO2 hybrids, which exhibited extraordinary performance on the photo-catalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB). The structure and morphology of CA/TiO2 were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectrum. The CA displayed a highly porous and interconnected three-dimensional framework structure, while introducing the catalytic active sites of TiO2 onto the aerogel scaffold could remarkably enhance its photo-catalytic activity. The adsorption and photo-catalytic degradation of MB by the CA/TiO2 hybrid were investigated. The maximum adsorption capacity of CA/TiO2 for MB was 18.5 mg/g, which outperformed many similar materials reported in the literature. In addition, compared with other photo-catalysts, the present CA/TiO2 demonstrated superior photo-catalytic performance. Almost 85% of MB in 50 mL solution with a MB concentration of 10 mg/L could be effectively degraded by 15 mg CA/TiO2 in 300 min.
High-Performance Humidity Sensor Based on the Graphene Flower/Zinc Oxide Composite
Authors: Saqib Muhammad , Ali Khan Shenawar , Mutee Ur Rehman Hafiz Mohammad , Yang Yunsook , Kim Seongwan , Rehman Muhammad Muqeet , Young Kim Woo
Published: January 2021

Performance of an electronic device relies heavily on the availability of a suitable functional material. One of the simple, easy, and cost-effective ways to obtain novel functional materials with improved properties for desired applications is to make composites of selected materials. In this work, a novel composite of transparent n-type zinc oxide (ZnO) with a wide bandgap and a unique structure of graphene in the form of a graphene flower (GrF) is synthesized and used as the functional layer of a humidity sensor. The (GrF/ZnO) composite was synthesized by a simple sol–gel method. Morphological, elemental, and structural characterizations of GrF/ZnO composite were performed by a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and an x-ray diffractometer (XRD), respectively, to fully understand the properties of this newly synthesized functional material. The proposed humidity sensor was tested in the relative humidity (RH) range of 15% RH% to 86% RH%. The demonstrated sensor illustrated a highly sensitive response to humidity with an average current change of 7.77 μA/RH%. Other prominent characteristics shown by this device include but were not limited to high stability, repeatable results, fast response, and quick recovery time. The proposed humidity sensor was highly sensitive to human breathing, thus making it a promising candidate for various applications related to health monitoring.
Quantification of Nitric Oxide Concentration Using Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Sensors
Authors: Meier Jakob , Stapleton Joseph , Hofferber Eric , Haworth Abigail , Kachman Stephen , Iverson Nicole M.
Published: January 2021

Nitric oxide (NO), a free radical present in biological systems, can have many detrimental effects on the body, from inflammation to cancer. Due to NO’s short half-life, detection and quantification is difficult. The inability to quantify NO has hindered researchers’ understanding of its impact in healthy and diseased conditions. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), when wrapped in a specific single-stranded DNA chain, becomes selective to NO, creating a fluorescence sensor. Unfortunately, the correlation between NO concentration and the SWNT’s fluorescence intensity has been difficult to determine due to an inability to immobilize the sensor without altering its properties. Through the use of a recently developed sensor platform, systematic studies can now be conducted to determine the correlation between SWNT fluorescence and NO concentration. This paper explains the methods used to determine the equations that can be used to convert SWNT fluorescence into NO concentration. Through the use of the equations developed in this paper, an easy method for NO quantification is provided. The methods outlined in this paper will also enable researchers to develop equations to determine the concentration of other reactive species through the use of SWNT sensors.
Conformation of Polyethylene Glycol inside Confined Space: Simulation and Experimental Approaches
Authors: Ma Tianji , Arroyo Nicolas , Marc Janot Jean , Picaud Fabien , Balme Sebastien
Published: January 2021

The modification of the inner nanopore wall by polymers is currently used to change the specific properties of the nanosystem. Among them, the polyethylene glycol (PEG) is the most used to prevent the fouling and ensure the wettability. However, its properties depend mainly on the chain structure that is very difficult to estimate inside this confined space. Combining experimental and simulation approaches, we provide an insight to the consequence of the PEG presence inside the nanopore on the nanopore properties. We show, in particular, that the cation type in the electrolyte, together with the type of electrolyte (water or urea), is at the origin of the ion transport modification in the nanopore.
Recent Advance in the Fabrication of 2D and 3D Metal Carbides-Based Nanomaterials for Energy and Environmental Applications
Authors: Wan Keming , Li Yalin , Wang Yan , Wei Gang
Published: January 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have attracted increased interest and exhibited extended applications from nanotechnology to materials science, biomedicine, tissue engineering, as well as energy storage and environmental science. With the development of the synthesis and fabrication of 2D materials, a new family of 2D materials, metal carbides (MCs), revealed promising applications in recent years, and have been utilized for the fabrication of various functional 2D and three-dimensional (3D) nanomaterials for energy and environmental applications, ascribing to the unique physical and chemical properties of MCs. In this review, we present recent advance in the synthesis, fabrication, and applications of 2D and 3D MC-based nanomaterials. For this aim, we first summarize typical synthesis methods of MCs, and then demonstrate the progress on the fabrication of 2D and 3D MC-based nanomaterials. To the end, the applications of MC-based 2D and 3D materials for chemical batteries, supercapacitors, water splitting, photodegradation, removal of heavy metals, and electromagnetic shielding are introduced and discussed. This work provides useful information on the preparation, hybridization, structural tailoring, and applications of MC-based materials, and is expected to inspire the design and fabrication of novel and functional MXene materials with improved performance.
Starch-Capped AgNPs’ as Potential Cytotoxic Agents against Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Morais Mariana , Machado Vera , Dias Francisca , Palmeira Carlos , Martins Gabriela , Fonseca Magda , Martins Catarina S. M. , Teixeira Ana Luísa , Prior João A. V. , Medeiros Rui
Published: January 2021

One of the major therapeutic approaches of prostate cancer (PC) is androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), but patients develop resistance within 2–3 years, making the development of new therapeutic approaches of great importance. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized through green approaches have been studied as anticancer agents because of their physical-chemical properties. This study explored the cytotoxic capacity of starch-capped AgNPs, synthesized through green methods, in LNCaP and in PC-3 cells, a hormonal-sensitive and hormone-resistant PC cell line, respectively. These AgNPs were synthesized in a microwave pressurized synthesizer and characterized by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Their cytotoxicity was assessed regarding their ability to alter morphological aspect (optical microscopy), induce damage in cytoplasmic membrane (Trypan Blue Assay), mitochondria (WST-1 assay), cellular proliferation (BrdU assay), and cell cycle (Propidium iodide and flow-cytometry). AgNPs showed surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of approximately 408 nm and average size of 3 nm. The starch-capped AgNPs successfully induced damage in cytoplasmic membrane and mitochondria, at concentrations equal and above 20 ppm. These damages lead to cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 and G2/M, blockage of proliferation and death in LNCaP and PC-3 cells, respectively. This data shows these AgNPs’ potential as anticancer agents for the different stages of PC.
Co-Zn-MOFs Derived N-Doped Carbon Nanotubes with Crystalline Co Nanoparticles Embedded as Effective Oxygen Electrocatalysts
Authors: Zhang Wendi , Liu Xiaoming , Gao Man , Shang Hong , Liu Xuanhe
Published: January 2021

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is a crucial step in fuel cells and metal-air batteries. It is necessary to expand the range of efficient non-precious ORR electrocatalysts on account of the low abundance and high cost of Pt/C catalysts. Herein, we synthesized crystalline cobalt-embedded N-doped carbon nanotubes (Co@CNTs-T) via facile carbonization of Co/Zn metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with dicyandiamide at different temperatures (t = 600, 700, 800, 900 °C). Co@CNTs- 800 possessed excellent ORR activities in alkaline electrolytes with a half wave potential of 0.846 V vs. RHE (Reversible Hydrogen Electrode), which was comparable to Pt/C. This three-dimensional network, formed by Co@CNTs-T, facilitated electron migration and ion diffusion during the ORR process. The carbon shell surrounding the Co nanoparticles resulted in Co@CNTs-800 being stable as an electrocatalyst. This work provides a new strategy to design efficient and low-cost oxygen catalysts.
Effects of Carbon Nanowalls (CNWs) Substrates on Soft Ionization of Low-Molecular-Weight Organic Compounds in Surface-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry (SALDI-MS)
Authors: Sakai Ryusei , Ichikawa Tomonori , Kondo Hiroki , Ishikawa Kenji , Shimizu Naohiro , Ohta Takayuki , Hiramatsu Mineo , Hori Masaru
Published: January 2021

Carbon nanowalls (CNWs), which are vertically oriented multi-layer graphene sheets, were employed in surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (SALDI-MS) measurements to detect low-molecular-weight organic compounds. CNWs substrates with widely different wall-to-wall distances from 142 to 467 nm were synthesized using a radical-injection plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (RI-PECVD) system with nanosecond pulse biasing to a sample stage. When survival yield (SY) values of N-benzylpyridinium chloride (N-BP-Cl) were examined, which is commonly used to evaluate desorption/ionization efficiency, a narrower wall-to-wall distance presented a higher SY value. The highest SY value of 0.97 was realized at 4 mJ/cm2 for the highest-density CNWs with a wall-to-wall distance of 142 nm. The laser desorption/ionization effect of arginine, an amino acid, was also investigated. When CNWs with a narrower wall-to-wall distance were used, the signal-to-noise (SN) ratios of the arginine signals were increased, while the intensity ratios of fragment ions to arginine signals were suppressed. Therefore, the CNWs nanostructures are a powerful tool when used as a SALDI substrate for the highly efficient desorption/ionization of low-molecular-weight biomolecules.
Nano-Hydroxyapatite Derived from Biogenic and Bioinspired Calcium Carbonates: Synthesis and In Vitro Bioactivity
Authors: Cestari Francesca , Agostinacchio Francesca , Galotta Anna , Chemello Giovanni , Motta Antonella , M. Sglavo Vincenzo
Published: January 2021

Biogenic calcium carbonates naturally contain ions that can be beneficial for bone regeneration and therefore are attractive resources for the production of bioactive calcium phosphates. In the present work, cuttlefish bones, mussel shells, chicken eggshells and bioinspired amorphous calcium carbonate were used to synthesize hydroxyapatite nano-powders which were consolidated into cylindrical pellets by uniaxial pressing and sintering 800–1100 °C. Mineralogical, structural and chemical composition were studied by SEM, XRD, inductively coupled plasma/optical emission spectroscopy (ICP/OES). The results show that the phase composition of the sintered materials depends on the Ca/P molar ratio and on the specific CaCO3 source, very likely associated with the presence of some doping elements like Mg2+ in eggshell and Sr2+ in cuttlebone. Different CaCO3 sources also resulted in variable densification and sintering temperature. Preliminary in vitro tests were carried out (by the LDH assay) and they did not reveal any cytotoxic effects, while good cell adhesion and proliferation was observed at day 1, 3 and 5 after seeding through confocal microscopy. Among the different tested materials, those derived from eggshells and sintered at 900 °C promoted the best cell adhesion pattern, while those from cuttlebone and amorphous calcium carbonate showed round-shaped cells and poorer cell-to-cell interconnection.
Nanotechnology Potential in Seed Priming for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: do Espirito Santo Pereira Anderson , Caixeta Oliveira Halley , Fernandes Fraceto Leonardo , Santaella Catherine
Published: January 2021

Our agriculture is threatened by climate change and the depletion of resources and biodiversity. A new agriculture revolution is needed in order to increase the production of crops and ensure the quality and safety of food, in a sustainable way. Nanotechnology can contribute to the sustainability of agriculture. Seed nano-priming is an efficient process that can change seed metabolism and signaling pathways, affecting not only germination and seedling establishment but also the entire plant lifecycle. Studies have shown various benefits of using seed nano-priming, such as improved plant growth and development, increased productivity, and a better nutritional quality of food. Nano-priming modulates biochemical pathways and the balance between reactive oxygen species and plant growth hormones, resulting in the promotion of stress and diseases resistance outcoming in the reduction of pesticides and fertilizers. The present review provides an overview of advances in the field, showing the challenges and possibilities concerning the use of nanotechnology in seed nano-priming, as a contribution to sustainable agricultural practices.
Changes of Taste, Smell and Eating Behavior in Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: Associations with PROP Phenotypes and Polymorphisms in the Odorant-Binding Protein OBPIIa and CD36 Receptor Genes
Authors: Melis Melania , Pintus Stefano , Mastinu Mariano , Fantola Giovanni , Moroni Roberto , Pepino Marta Yanina , Tomassini Barbarossa Iole
Published: January 2021

Bariatric surgery is the most effective long-term treatment for severe obesity and related comorbidities. Although patients who underwent bariatric surgery report changes of taste and smell perception, results from sensory studies are discrepant and limited. Here, we assessed taste and smell functions in 51 patients before, one month, and six months after undergoing bariatric surgery. We used taste strip tests to assess gustatory function (including sweetness, saltiness, sourness, umaminess, bitterness and oleic acid, a fatty stimulus), the “Sniffin’ Sticks” test to assess olfactory identification and the 3-Factor Eating Questionnaire to assess eating behavior. We also explored associations between these phenotypes and flavor-related genes. Results showed an overall improvement in taste function (including increased sensitivity to oleic acid and the bitterness of 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP)) and in olfactory function (which could be related to the increase in PROP and oleic acid sensitivity), an increase in cognitive restraint, and a decrease in disinhibition and hunger after bariatric surgery. These findings indicate that bariatric surgery can have a positive impact on olfactory and gustatory functions and eating behavior (with an important role of genetic factors, such PROP tasting), which in turn might contribute to the success of the intervention.
Reporting of Perinatal Outcomes in Probiotic Randomized Controlled Trials. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pérez-Castillo Íñigo María , Fernández-Castillo Rafael , Lasserrot-Cuadrado Agustín , Gallo-Vallejo José Luís , Rojas-Carvajal Ana María , Aguilar-Cordero María José
Published: January 2021

The use of probiotic microorganisms in clinical practice has increased in recent years and a significant number of pregnant women are regular consumers of these products. However, probiotics might modulate the immune system, and whether or not this modulation is beneficial for perinatal outcomes is unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the reporting of perinatal outcomes in randomized controlled trials including women supplemented with probiotic microorganisms during pregnancy. We also analyzed the effects that the administration of probiotic microorganisms exerts on perinatal outcomes. In the review, 46 papers were included and 25 were meta-analyzed. Reporting of perinatal outcomes was highly inconsistent across the studies. Only birth weight, cesarean section, and weeks of gestation were reported in more than 50% of the studies. Random effects meta-analysis results showed that the administration of probiotic microorganisms during pregnancy did not have any a positive or negative impact on the perinatal outcomes evaluated. Subgroup analysis results at the strain level were not significantly different from main analysis results. The administration of probiotic microorganisms does not appear to influence perinatal outcomes. Nonetheless, future probiotic studies conducted in pregnant women should report probiotic strains and perinatal outcomes in order to shed light upon probiotics’ effects on pregnancy outcomes.
Association of Testosterone-Related Dietary Pattern with Testicular Function among Adult Men: A Cross-Sectional Health Screening Study in Taiwan
Authors: Kurniawan Adi-Lukas , Hsu Chien-Yeh , Chao Jane C-J , Paramastri Rathi , Lee Hsiu-An , Lai Pao-Chin , Hsieh Nan-Chen , Wu Shu-Fang Vivienne
Published: January 2021

Diets could play an important role in testicular function, but studies on how adherence to the dietary patterns influences human testicular function in Asian countries are scarce. Herein, we examined the association between testosterone-related dietary patterns and testicular function among adult men in Taiwan. This cross-sectional study recruited 3283 men who attended a private medical screening program from 2009 to 2015. Testosterone-related dietary pattern was generated by the reduced rank regression (RRR) method. The association between adherence to quartile of dietary pattern scores with sex hormones (testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol (E2)) and sperm quality (sperm concentration (SC), total sperm motility (TSM), progressive motility (PRM), and normal sperm morphology (NSM)) were examined by multivariable linear regression. Hemoglobin (β = 0.57, p < 0.001), hematocrit (β = 0.17, p = 0.002), triglyceride (β = −0.84, p < 0.001), HDL-cholesterol (β = 3.58, p < 0.001), total cholesterol to HDL-cholesterol ratio (β = −0.78, p < 0.001), and uric acid (β = −10.77, p < 0.001) were highly correlated with testosterone levels. Therefore, these biomarkers were used to construct a testosterone-related dietary pattern. Highest adherence (Q4) to dietary pattern scores were negatively associated with lower testosterone in the pooled analysis (β = −0.89, p = 0.037) and normal-weight men (β = −1.48, p = 0.019). Likewise, men in the Q4 of the dietary pattern had lower SC (β = −5.55, p = 0.001) and NSM (β = −2.22, p = 0.007) regardless of their nutritional status. Our study suggesting that testosterone-related dietary pattern (rich in preserved vegetables or processed meat or fish, deep-fried foods, innards organs, rice or flour products cooked in oil, and dipping sauce, but low in milk, dairy products, legumes, or beans, and dark or leafy vegetables) was associated with a poor testicular function.
Eat Your Broccoli: Oxidative Stress, NRF2, and Sulforaphane in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Liebman Scott E. , Le Thu H.
Published: January 2021

The mainstay of therapy for chronic kidney disease is control of blood pressure and proteinuria through the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-Is) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) that were introduced more than 20 years ago. Yet, many chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients still progress to end-stage kidney disease—the ultimate in failed prevention. While increased oxidative stress is a major molecular underpinning of CKD progression, no treatment modality specifically targeting oxidative stress has been established clinically. Here, we review the influence of oxidative stress in CKD, and discuss regarding the role of the Nrf2 pathway in kidney disease from studies using genetic and pharmacologic approaches in animal models and clinical trials. We will then focus on the promising therapeutic potential of sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate derived from cruciferous vegetables that has garnered significant attention over the past decade for its potent Nrf2-activating effect, and implications for precision medicine.
Nutrition-Based Management of Inflammaging in CKD and Renal Replacement Therapies
Authors: Losappio Vincenzo , Infante Barbara , Leo Serena , Troise Dario , Calvaruso Martina , Vitale Piercarla , Renzi Stefania , Stallone Giovanni , Castellano Giuseppe
Published: January 2021

Access to renal transplantation guarantees a substantial improvement in the clinical condition and quality of life (QoL) for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. In recent years, a greater number of older patients starting renal replacement therapies (RRT) have shown the long-term impact of conservative therapies for advanced CKD and the consequences of the uremic milieu, with a frail clinical condition that impacts not only their survival but also limits their access to transplantation. This process, referred to as “inflammaging,” might be reversible with a tailored approach, such as RRT accompanied by specific nutritional support. In this review, we summarize the evidence demonstrating the presence of several proinflammatory substances in the Western diet (WD) and the positive effect of unprocessed food consumption and increased fruit and vegetable intake, suggesting a new approach to reduce inflammaging with the improvement of ESRD clinical status. We conclude that the Mediterranean diet (MD), because of its modulative effects on microbiota and its anti-inflammaging properties, may be a cornerstone in a more precise nutritional support for patients on the waiting list for kidney transplantation.
Mechanisms of Dietary Sodium-Induced Impairments in Endothelial Function and Potential Countermeasures
Authors: Patik Jordan C. , Lennon Shannon L. , Farquhar William B. , Edwards David G.
Published: January 2021

Despite decades of efforts to reduce sodium intake, excess dietary sodium remains commonplace, and contributes to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality independent of its effects on blood pressure. An increasing amount of research suggests that high-sodium diets lead to reduced nitric oxide-mediated endothelial function, even in the absence of a change in blood pressure. As endothelial dysfunction is an early step in the progression of cardiovascular diseases, the endothelium presents a target for interventions aimed at reducing the impact of excess dietary sodium. In this review, we briefly define endothelial function and present the literature demonstrating that excess dietary sodium results in impaired endothelial function. We then discuss the mechanisms through which sodium impairs the endothelium, including increased reactive oxygen species, decreased intrinsic antioxidant defenses, endothelial cell stiffening, and damage to the endothelial glycocalyx. Finally, we present selected research findings suggesting that aerobic exercise or increased intake of dietary potassium may counteract the deleterious vascular effects of a high-sodium diet.
Dietary Habits, Selenium, Copper, Zinc and Total Antioxidant Status in Serum in Relation to Cognitive Functions of Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Socha Katarzyna , Klimiuk Katarzyna , Naliwajko Sylwia K. , Soroczyńska Jolanta , Puścion-Jakubik Anna , Markiewicz-Żukowska Renata , Kochanowicz Jan
Published: January 2021

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the neurodegenerative process and can impair cognitive functions. In the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), an adequate consumption of dietary antioxidants may be a major factor. The objective of the study was to estimate selenium (Se), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and total antioxidant status (TAS) in the serum of patients with AD in relation to their cognitive functions and dietary habits. A total of 110 patients (aged 54–93 years) with early or moderate AD, as well as 60 healthy people (aged 52–83 years) were studied. The severity of the disease was assessed using the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) scale. Food-frequency questionnaires were implemented to collect the dietary data. The concentrations of Se, Cu and Zn in the sera were determined by the atomic absorption spectrometry method. TAS was estimated spectrophotometrically using ready-made kits (Randox). Significantly lower concentrations of Se, Zn and TAS, and higher Cu:Zn ratio in the serum of patients with AD, compared to healthy people, were observed. A low correlation between the MMSE score and TAS in the serum of AD patients and significantly higher MMSE values in patients with TAS above the reference range were also noted. In patients with serum Cu concentration above the norm, significantly lower MMSE values were found. Selected dietary habits such as the frequency of consumption of various food products had a significant impact on the concentration of the assessed parameters in the serum of people with AD.
Structure, Function, and Pharmaceutical Ligands of 5-Hydroxytryptamine 2B Receptor
Authors: Wang Qing , Zhou Yu , Huang Jianhui , Huang Niu
Published: January 2021

Since the first characterization of the 5-hydroxytryptamine 2B receptor (5-HT2BR) in 1992, significant progress has been made in 5-HT2BR research. Herein, we summarize the biological function, structure, and small-molecule pharmaceutical ligands of the 5-HT2BR. Emerging evidence has suggested that the 5-HT2BR is implicated in the regulation of the cardiovascular system, fibrosis disorders, cancer, the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and the nervous system. Eight crystal complex structures of the 5-HT2BR bound with different ligands provided great insights into ligand recognition, activation mechanism, and biased signaling. Numerous 5-HT2BR antagonists have been discovered and developed, and several of them have advanced to clinical trials. It is expected that the novel 5-HT2BR antagonists with high potency and selectivity will lead to the development of first-in-class drugs in various therapeutic areas.
Seasonal Variations of Polyphenols Content, Sun Protection Factor and Antioxidant Activity of Two Lamiaceae Species
Authors: de Medeiros Gomes Juliana , Cahino Terto Márcio Vinícius , Golzio do Santos Sócrates , Sobral da Silva Marcelo , Fechine Tavares Josean
Published: January 2021

Secondary metabolite production by plants is influenced by external environmental factors that can change depending on the seasons, which makes it important to know how the plant, through its metabolism, is able to adapt to these variations. Mentha x villosa and Plectranthus amboinicus present in their chemical composition polyphenols, and through previous studies, it has been seen that these two species present promising in vitro photoprotective activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate seasonal alterations in photoprotective and antioxidant activities and the influence of factors such as precipitation levels and sun radiation incidence. Thus, polyphenol quantification, cromatographics (HPLC-DAD) and multivariate (PCA) analyses of extracts of the two species through twelve months were done. It was observed that the best months for photoprotective and antioxidant activities were September for M. villosa and July for P. amboinicus (SPF = 14.79). It was possible to conclude that solar radiation more clearly influences the production of phenolics and the increase of SPF in M. villosa, in addition to favoring the antioxidant activity of the two species, while precipitation seems to have no influence.