bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Normal-Fat vs. High-Fat Diets and Olive Oil vs. CLA-Rich Dairy Fat: A Comparative Study of Their Effects on Atherosclerosis in Male Golden Syrian Hamsters
Authors: Berriozabalgoitia Alaitz , Ruiz de Gordoa Juan Carlos , Amores Gustavo , Santamarina-Garcia Gorka , Hernández Igor , Virto Mailo
Published: July 2023

The relationship between milk fat intake (because of its high saturated fatty acid content) and the risk of suffering from cardiovascular diseases remains controversial. Thus, Golden Syrian hamsters were fed two types of fat—sheep milk fat that was rich in rumenic (cis9,trans11-18:2) and vaccenic (trans11-18:1) acids and olive oil—and two doses (a high- or normal-fat diet) for 14 weeks, and markers of lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis evolution were analyzed. The results revealed that the type and percentage of fat affected most plasma biochemical parameters related to lipid metabolism, while only the expression of five (CD36, SR-B1, ACAT, LDLR, and HMG-CoAR) of the studied lipid-metabolism-related genes was affected by these factors. According to aortic histology, when ingested in excess, both fats caused a similar increase in the thickness of fatty streaks, but the high-milk-fat-based diet caused a more atherogenic plasma profile. The compositions of the fats that were used, the results that were obtained, and the scientific literature indicated that the rumenic acid present in milk fat would regulate the expression of genes involved in ROS generation and, thus, protect against LDL oxidation, causing an effect similar to that of olive oil.
Influence of Varying Pre-Culture Conditions on the Level of Population Heterogeneity in Batch Cultures with an Escherichia coli Triple Reporter Strain
Authors: Hoang Manh Dat , Riessner Sophi , Oropeza Vargas Jose Enrique , von den Eichen Nikolas , Heins Anna-Lena
Published: July 2023

When targeting robust, high-yielding bioprocesses, phenomena such as population heterogeneity have to be considered. Therefore, the influence of the conditions which the cells experience prior to the main culture should also be evaluated. Here, the influence of a pre-culture medium (complex vs. minimal medium), optical density for inoculation of the main culture (0.005, 0.02 and 0.0125) and harvest time points of the pre-culture in exponential growth phase (early, mid and late) on the level of population heterogeneity in batch cultures of the Escherichia coli triple reporter strain G7BL21(DE3) in stirred-tank bioreactors was studied. This strain allows monitoring the growth (rrnB-EmGFP), general stress response (rpoS-mStrawberry) and oxygen limitation (nar-TagRFP657) of single cells through the expression of fluorescent proteins. Data from batch cultivations with varying pre-culture conditions were analysed with principal component analysis. According to fluorescence data, the pre-culture medium had the largest impact on population heterogeneities during the bioprocess. While a minimal medium as a pre-culture medium elevated the differences in cellular growth behaviour in the subsequent batch process, a complex medium increased the general stress response and led to a higher population heterogeneity. The latter was promoted by an early harvest of the cells with low inoculation density. Seemingly, nar-operon expression acted independently of the pre-culture conditions.
Holistic Strategies to Control Salmonella Infantis: An Emerging Challenge in the European Broiler Sector
Authors: Montoro-Dasi Laura , Lorenzo-Rebenaque Laura , Marco-Fuertes Ana , Vega Santiago , Marin Clara
Published: July 2023

Salmonella spp. has been globally recognized as one of the leading causes of acute human bacterial gastroenteritis resulting from the consumption of animal-derived products. Salmonella Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium, and its monophasic variant are the main serovars responsible for human disease. However, a serovar known as S. Infantis has emerged as the fourth most prevalent serovar associated with human disease. A total of 95% of isolated S. Infantis serovars originate from broilers and their derived products. This serovar is strongly associated with an elevated antimicrobial (AMR) and multidrug resistance, a resistance to disinfectants, an increased tolerance to environmental mercury, a heightened virulence, and an enhanced ability to form biofilms and attach to host cells. Furthermore, this serovar harbors genes that confer resistance to colistin, a last-resort antibiotic in human medicine, and it has the potential to acquire additional transferable AMR against other critically important antimicrobials, posing a new and significant challenge to global public health. This review provides an overview of the current status of the S. Infantis serovar in the poultry sector, focusing on its key virulence factors, including its virulence genes, antimicrobial resistance, and biofilm formation. Additionally, novel holistic strategies for controlling S. Infantis along the entire food chain are presented in this review.
First Identification of the Ediacaran Yukengou Formation in the Western Kuruktag Block, Northeastern Tarim, and Its Implications for Neoproterozoic Rift Basin Evolution
Authors: Sun Minjia , Wei Zhen , Guo Ruiqing , Liu Guiping , Shi Mingming , Cheng Yuanfeng
Published: July 2023

The Cryogenian–Ediacaran strata in the Kuruktag block, northeastern Tarim Craton, are pivotal for deciphering the breakup of Neoproterozoic Rodinia and related peripheral subduction processes. This study reveals previously unidentified Ediacaran strata in the western Kuruktag block, characterized by deltaic plain clastic rocks and channel deposits. Zircon geochronological analyses of basalts and sandstones indicate a maximum depositional age of ~596 Ma, thereby attributing these strata to the Ediacaran Yukengou Formation in conjunction with prior paleontological findings. The prevalence of lithic fragments and two primary detrital zircon age populations within the Yukengou Formation sandstones suggest a rift basin environment, in contrast to a passive continental margin, receiving detrital material from the neighboring Paleoproterozoic basement and Neoproterozoic magmatic activity. As a result, the Cryogenian–Ediacaran strata are posited to have been deposited in an aulacogen basin. The presence of numerous Neoproterozoic zircon grains further implies significant volcanic events preceding and concurrent with Cryogenian rifting, suggesting that continental rifting along the northeastern Tarim margin may have been instigated by subduction-induced extension.
A Comparison between Triphenylmethyl and Triphenylsilyl Spirobifluorenyl Hosts: Synthesis, Photophysics and Performance in Phosphorescent Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Wei Wei , Ma Jie , Schaab Jonas , Brooks Jason , Kang Seogshin , Whited Matthew T. , Djurovich Peter I. , Thompson Mark E.
Published: July 2023

This study presents the synthesis and characterization of two spirobifluorenyl derivatives substituted with either triphenylmethyl (SB-C) or triphenylsilyl (SB-Si) moieties for use as host materials in phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes (PHOLED). Both molecules have similar high triplet energies and large energy gaps. Blue Ir(tpz)3 and green Ir(ppy)3 phosphorescent devices were fabricated using these materials as hosts. Surprisingly, SB-Si demonstrated superior charge-transporting ability compared to SB-C, despite having similar energies for their valence orbitals. In particular, SB-Si proved to be a highly effective host for both blue and green devices, resulting in maximum efficiencies of 12.6% for the Ir(tpz)3 device and 9.6% for the Ir(ppy)3 device. These results highlight the benefits of appending the triphenylsilyl moiety onto host materials and underscore the importance of considering the morphology of hosts in the design of efficient PHOLEDs.
Electrochemical Synthesis of New Isoxazoles and Triazoles Tethered with Thiouracil Base as Inhibitors of Histone Deacetylases in Human Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Vishwanath Divakar , Xi Zhang , Ravish Akshay , Mohan Arunkumar , Basappa Shreeja , Krishnamurthy Niranjan Pattehalli , Gaonkar Santosh L. , Pandey Vijay , Lobie Peter E. , Basappa Basappa
Published: July 2023

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are an attractive drug target for the treatment of human breast cancer (BC), and therefore, HDAC inhibitors (HDACis) are being used in preclinical and clinical studies. The need to understand the scope of the mode of action of HDACis, as well as the report of the co-crystal structure of HDAC6/SS-208 at the catalytic site, provoked us to develop an isoxazole-based lead structure called 4-(2-(((1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methyl)thio) pyrimidin-4-yl) morpholine (5h) and 1-(2-(((3-(p-tolyl) isoxazol-5-yl)methyl)thio) pyrimidin-4-yl) piperidin-4-one (6l) that targets HDACs in human BC cells. We found that the compound 5h or 6l could inhibit the proliferation of BC cells with an IC50 value of 8.754 and 11.71 µM, respectively. Our detailed in silico analysis showed that 5h or 6l compounds could target HDAC in MCF-7 cells. In conclusion, we identified a new structure bearing triazole, isoxazole, and thiouracil moiety, which could target HDAC in MCF-7 cells and serve as a base to make new drugs against cancer.
Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Clinical Mouthwash Protocol and Prevalence of the Oral Pathogen Scardovia wiggsiae: A Pilot Study of Antibacterial Effects
Authors: Shayegh Melika , Sorenson Chase , Downey Jackson , Lin Summer , Jiang Yuxin , Sodhi Praneeti , Sullivan Victoria , Howard Katherine M. , Kingsley Karl
Published: July 2023

One protocol in healthcare facilities and dental offices due to the COVID-19 pandemic for reducing the amount of detectable oral SARS-CoV-2 has been gargling with mouthwash for 60 s. This protocol lasts longer than the daily routine for most patients and may have unexpected benefits in reducing oral microbes as a result. This project evaluated the prevalence of the newly identified oral pathogen Scardovia wiggsiae before and after this procedure to determine any measurable effects. Using an approved protocol, n = 36 pre-mouthwash patient samples, n = 36 matched post-mouthwash samples, and n = 36 matched recall samples were identified (total sample number n = 108). DNA was isolated from each sample (pre-, post-mouthwash, and recall). Screening using qPCR and validated primers revealed n = 10/36 or 27.8% tested positive for Scardovia among the pre-mouthwash (Sample A) isolates with n = 3/36 or 8.3% testing positive among the post-mouthwash (Sample B) isolates. Screening of the recall (Sample C) samples has revealed n = 10/36, or 27.8% once again tested positive for Scardovia, demonstrating that this pathogen was found among a significant proportion of pediatric patient samples. Moreover, the COVID-19-related procedure of requiring sustained mouth washing prior to clinical treatment appears to reduce the levels of detectable Scardovia, at least initially. However, this study found no long-term effects using this isolated protocol.
Dual-Band, Wide-Angle, and High-Capture Efficiency Metasurface for Electromagnetic Energy Harvesting
Authors: Amer Abdulrahman Ahmed Ghaleb , Othman Nurmiza , Sapuan Syarfa Zahirah , Alphones Arokiaswami , Hassan Mohd Fahrul , Al-Gburi Ahmed Jamal Abdullah , Zakaria Zahriladha
Published: July 2023

A dual-band metasurface (MS) with a wide reception angle operating at Wi-Fi bands (2.4 GHz and 5.4 GHz) is presented for electromagnetic (EM) energy harvesting applications. The MS unit cell comprises a subwavelength circular split ring resonator printed on the low-loss substrate. An air layer is sandwiched between two low-loss substrates to enhance the harvesting efficiency at operating frequencies. One of the main advantages of the proposed MS is that it uses only one harvesting port (via) to channel the captured power to the optimized load (50 Ω), which simplifies the design of a combined power network. According to the results of full-wave EM simulations, the proposed MS has a near-unity efficiency of 97% and 94% at 2.4 GHz and 5.4 GHz, respectively, for capturing the power of incident EM waves with normal incidence. Furthermore, the proposed MS harvester achieves good performance at up to 60° oblique incidence. To validate simulations, the MS harvester with 5 × 5-unit cells is fabricated and tested, and its EM properties are measured, showing good agreement with the simulation results. Because of its high efficiency, the proposed MS harvester is suitable for use in various microwave applications, such as energy harvesting and wireless power transfer.
Polyethylene Terephthalate Composite Films with Enhanced Flame Retardancy and Gas Barrier Properties via Self-Assembly Nanocoating
Authors: Zou Tao , Kang Lei , Zhang Dongqiao , Li Jieyi , Zheng Zefeng , Peng Xiaohong
Published: July 2023

The flammability and gas barrier properties are essential for package material. Herein, a highly-oriented self-assembly nanocoating composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and montmorillonite (MMT) was prepared for endowing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films with excellent flame retardancy and gas barrier properties. The specific regular nanosheet structure of the PVA/MMT composite nanocoating was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the vertical burning test (VBT) suggested that the thermal stability and flame-retardancy of the coated PET films were considerably improved with more pick-up of the resulting nanocoating. When reaching 650 °C, there was still 22.6% char residual left for coated PET film, while only 6% char residual left for pristine PET film. During the vertical burning test, the flame did not spread through the whole PET film with the protection of PVA/MMT nanocoating, and no afterflame was observed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is consistent with vertical burning test, proving that the thermal stability and flame retardancy of coated PET films were considerably enhanced with the increment of PVA/MMT. Thanks to the multi-layer structure, PVA/MMT nanocoating could effectively improve the gas barrier properties of PET films, and the oxygen vapor transmittance rate and water vapor transmittance rate of PET films were more than four hundred times lower and 30% lower than those of neat PET film. Our work demonstrates that bi-functional flame retardant and gas barrier materials could be gained via constructing inorganic/organic highly-oriented self-assembly nanocoating, which is promising in the area of packaging.
Editorial for Special Issue: “Synthesis and Application of Biomass-Derived Carbon-Based Nanomaterial”
Authors: Zhang Mengmeng , Li Pengfei , Wu Dapeng
Published: July 2023

Biomass-derived carbon-based nanomaterials represent a group of green and high-quality materials which can be potentially employed in the fields of environmental protection, energy conversion and clean energy storage [...]
Evidence-Based Dietary Practices to Improve Osteoarthritis Symptoms: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Buck Ashley N. , Vincent Heather K. , Newman Connie B. , Batsis John A. , Abbate Lauren M. , Huffman Katie F. , Bodley Jennifer , Vos Natasha , Callahan Leigh F. , Shultz Sarah P.
Published: July 2023

While there is some research investigating whole foods or diets that are easily understood and accessible to patients with osteoarthritis, specific nutrients or nutraceuticals are more commonly identified. Unfortunately, guidelines and evidence surrounding individual nutrients, extracts, and nutraceuticals are conflicting and are more difficult to interpret and implement for patients with osteoarthritis. The purpose of this umbrella review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the existing evidence of whole foods and dietary patterns effects on osteoarthritis-related outcomes to inform evidence-based recommendations for healthcare professionals and identify areas where more research is warranted. A literature search identified relevant systematic reviews/meta-analyses using five databases from inception to May 2022. Five systematic reviews/meta-analyses were included in the current umbrella review. Most evidence supported the Mediterranean diet improving osteoarthritis-related outcomes (e.g., pain, stiffness, inflammation, biomarkers of cartilage degeneration). There was little to no evidence supporting the effects of fruits and herbs on osteoarthritis-related outcomes; however, there was some suggestion that specific foods could potentiate symptom improvement through antioxidative mechanisms. The overall lack of homogeneity between the studies limits the conclusions that can be made and highlights the need for quality research that can identify consumer-accessible foods to improve osteoarthritis-related symptoms.
Body Composition and Phase Angle: How to Improve Nutritional Evaluation in Juvenile Dermatomyositis Patients
Authors: Pugliese Camila , Delgado Artur Figueiredo , Kozu Katia Tomie , Campos Lucia Maria de Arruda , Aikawa Nadia Emi , Silva Clovis Artur , Maluf Elias Adriana
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: This study aimed to assess body composition (BC) using bioelectrical impedance and food intake in juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) patients. Associations between BC and physical activity, disease activity/cumulative damage and health-related quality of life parameters were also evaluated; (2) Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with 30 consecutive JDM patients (18 female and 12 male) and 24 healthy volunteers (14 female and 10 male) of both sexes followed at our pediatric rheumatology unit. The gathering of anthropometric and dietary data, and the performance of physical activity and bioelectrical impedance were undertaken in face-to-face meetings and through questionnaires. Clinical and therapeutic data were collected from medical records according to information from routine medical appointments; (3) Results: The frequency of high/very high body fat was significantly higher in controls compared with JDM patients (66.7% vs. 91.7%; p = 0.046). The median phase angle was significantly lower in patients compared with controls (5.2 ± 1.3 vs. 6.1 ± 1.0; p = 0.016). Body fat and lean mass were positively correlated with disease duration (rs = +0.629, p < 0.001 and rs = +0.716, p < 0.001, respectively) and phase angle (PhA) (rs = +0.400, p = 0.029 and rs = +0.619, p < 0.001, respectively). JDM patients with PhA ≥ 5.5 presented higher lean mass when compared with patients with PhA < 5.5 (p = 0.001); (4) Conclusions: Bioelectrical impedance can be a useful auxiliary exam in the medical and nutritional follow-up of JDM patients, because it seems to impact functional ability. These findings may assist professionals when advising JDM patients about the importance of physical activity and healthy eating in the preservation of lean mass.
Super Fruit Amla (Emblica officinalis, Gaertn) in Diabetes Management and Ensuing Complications: A Concise Review
Authors: Majeed Muhammed , Narayanan Narayanan K. , Mundkur Lakshmi , Prakasan Priji , Nagabhushanam Kalyanam
Published: July 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disease showing an exponential increase in its prevalence all over the world. High blood glucose level is one of the main clinical signs of the disease. Although several classes of drugs are available for treatment, their prolonged use and adverse effects behoove the use of alternative medicine. Plant-derived natural products have multifaceted beneficial roles in human pathophysiology. Plant metabolites like tannins, organic acids, polyphenols, terpenes, and flavonoids show multiple mechanisms of action against diabetes. The fruits of Emblica officinalis (EOF), also known as Indian gooseberry (amla), contain several phytochemicals, potentially having anti-diabetic activity. Hydrolyzable tannins are the major bioactive components of the amla fruit, the most abundant hydrolyzable tannin being β-glucogallin. The present review summarizes the mechanism of action and clinical evidence for the beneficial effects of EOF on T2DM and its associated complications.
Distribution of Epstein–Barr Virus LMP1 Variants in Patients with Infectious Mononucleosis and Association with Selected Biochemical and Hematological Parameters
Authors: Zidovec-Lepej Snjezana , Batovic Margarita , Rozman Marija , Bodulić Kristian , Prtorić Laura , Šokota Ante , Nikcevic Andrea , Simicic Petra , Tešović Goran
Published: July 2023

The molecular diversity of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is exceptionally complex and based on the characterization of sequences coding for several viral genes. The aim of this study was to analyze the distribution of EBV types 1 and 2 and to characterize LMP1 variants in a cohort of 73 patients with infectious mononucleosis (IM), as well as to investigate a possible association between viral diversity and relevant clinical parameters. Population-based sequencing of EBNA-2 gene showed the presence of EBV type 1 in all IM patients. Analysis of LMP1 gene found a restricted repertoire of LMP1 variants with the predominance of wild-type B95-8, China1, Mediterranean and North Carolina variants with the presence of more than one LMP1 variant in 16.4% of patients. Co-infections with different LMP1 variants were associated with significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein and lower levels of maximal neutrophil counts and minimal platelet count. The results of this study have shown a narrow repertoire of LMP1 variants and an exclusive presence of EBV type 1 in a cohort of IM from Croatia, suggesting a characteristic local molecular pattern of this virus. The clinical importance of distinct immunobiological features of IM patients with LMP1 variant co-infections needs to be investigated further.
Protective Mechanism Pathway of Swietenia macrophylla Extract Nanoparticles against Cardiac Cell Damage in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Kurnijasanti Rochmah , Wardani Giftania , Mustafa Mohd. Rais , Sudjarwo Sri Agus
Published: July 2023

Hyperglycemia causes cardiac cell damage through increasing ROS production during diabetic complications. The current study proves the antioxidant activity of Swietenia macrophylla (S. macrophylla) extract nanoparticles as a protector against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced cardiac cell damage. In this research, high-energy ball milling is used to create S. macrophylla extract nanoparticles. The active chemical compounds in the S. macrophylla extract nanoparticles were analyzed through phytochemical screening and GC-MS. Furthermore, we characterized the size of S. macrophylla extract nanoparticles with Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). Forty male rats were divided randomly into five groups. In the control group, rats received aqua dest orally; in the diabetic group, rats were injected intraperitoneally with STZ; in the S. macrophylla group, rats were injected with STZ and orally given S. macrophylla extract nanoparticles. The results of phytochemical screening showed that S. macrophylla extract nanoparticles contain saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics and tannins. Seven chemical compounds in S. macrophylla extract nanoparticles were identified using GC-MS, including phenol, piperidine, imidazole, hexadecene, heptadecanol, dihexylsulfide and heptanol. DLS showed that the S. macrophylla extract nanoparticles’ size was 91.50 ± 23.06 nm. Injection with STZ significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in cardiac tissue and creatine kinase–myocardial band (CK-MB) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels in serum. STZ also significantly reduced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in cardiac tissue compared with the control group (p < 0.05). In contrast, the administration of S. macrophylla extract nanoparticles can prevent STZ-induced cardiac cell damage through decreasing the level of CK-MB and LDH in serum and the level of MDA in cardiac tissue. S. macrophylla extract nanoparticles also significantly increased Nrf2 expression as well as SOD and GPx levels in cardiac tissue. These effects are related to the prevention of cardiac histopathological alteration (degeneration and necrosis) in diabetic rats. These results suggest that S. macrophylla nanoparticles contain active compounds such as flavonoids, phenols, piperidine, imidazole and hexadecene and have strong antioxidant activity. These can act as a potential cardioprotective agent against STZ-induced cardiac cell damage due to its antioxidant properties.
Whole Yeast Vaccine Displaying ZIKV B and T Cell Epitopes Induces Cellular Immune Responses in the Murine Model
Authors: Silva Anna Jéssica Duarte , de Jesus André Luiz Santos , Leal Lígia Rosa Sales , de Macêdo Larissa Silva , da Silva Barros Bárbara Rafaela , de Sousa Georon Ferreira , da Paz Leôncio Alves Simone , Pena Lindomar José , de Melo Cristiane Moutinho Lagos , de Freitas Antonio Carlos
Published: July 2023

Improving antigen presentation is crucial for the success of immunization strategies. Yeasts are classically used as biofactories to produce recombinant proteins and are efficient vehicles for antigen delivery, in addition to their adjuvant properties. Despite the absence of epidemic outbreaks, several vaccine approaches continue to be developed for Zika virus infection. The development of these prophylactic strategies is fundamental given the severity of clinical manifestations, mainly due to viral neurotropism. The present study aimed to evaluate in vivo the immune response induced by P. pastoris recombinant strains displaying epitopes of the envelope (ENV) and NS1 ZIKV proteins. Intramuscular immunization with heat-attenuated yeast enhanced the secretion of IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, in addition to the activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, in BALB/c mice. P. pastoris displaying ENV epitopes induced a more robust immune response, increasing immunoglobulin production, especially IgG isotypes. Both proposed vaccines showed the potential to induce immune responses without adverse effects, confirming the safety of administering P. pastoris as a vaccine vehicle. Here, we demonstrated, for the first time, the evaluation of a vaccine against ZIKV based on a multiepitope construct using yeast as a delivery system and reinforcing the applicability of P. pastoris as a whole-cell vaccine.
Evaluation of Peak Inspiratory Flow Rate in Hospitalized Palliative Care Patients with COPD
Authors: Borris Joshua , Cook Heather , Chae Sulgi , Walker Kathryn A. , McPherson Mary Lynn
Published: July 2023

Dry powder inhalers are an effective yet costly COPD medication-delivery device. Patients must possess a minimum peak inspiratory flow rate (PIFR) for inhaled medication to be properly deposited into the lungs. Hospitalized palliative-care patients with diminished lung function due to advanced COPD may not possess the minimum PIFR (30 L/min) for adequate drug delivery. This study aims to quantify PIFR values for hospitalized palliative-care patients with advanced COPD to evaluate whether these patients meet the minimum PIFR requirements. Hospitalized patients ≥18 years old with a palliative-care consultation were eligible if they had a diagnosis of advanced COPD (GOLD C or D). Patients were excluded if they lacked decision-making capacity or had a positive COVID-19 test within the previous 90 days. Three PIFR values were recorded utilizing the In-CheckTM device, with the highest of the three PIFR attempts being utilized for statistical analysis. Eighteen patients were enrolled, and the mean of the highest PIFR readings was 72.5 L/min (±29 L/min). Post hoc analysis indicated 99.9% power when comparing the average best PIFR to the minimum PIFR (30 L/min) but only 51.4% power when compared to the optimal PIFR (60 L/min). This study found that palliative-care patients possess the minimum PIFR for DPI drug delivery.
A Pilot Study to Establish the Leadership Development Needs of Community Pharmacist Leads in Lambeth, South East London
Authors: Patel Mohammed , Royle Finlay , Micallef Ricarda
Published: July 2023

Primary care networks (PCNs) are geographical networks consisting of 30,000 to 50,000 patients and groups of general practices working in a multidisciplinary team, including community pharmacists. Community pharmacy (CP) neighbourhood leads act as a conduit between pharmacy contractors and general practitioners (GPs) in these networks, sharing information and providing a voice for the community pharmacy locally. The Lambeth medicines team (NHS South East London Integrated Care Board) recognised the need to continue funding these leadership roles to address barriers to relationship-building between community pharmacies and general practices, the consistency of service delivery and effective communication. The aim of this study was to understand the current experience of CP neighbourhood leads to inform their further development. All eight CP neighbourhood leads individually completed a semi-structured interview over Microsoft Teams, which was then reviewed using content analysis. Ethical approval was received. Leads reported the use of common communication methods such as emails, text messaging applications and telephone calls to engage GPs and pharmacies in their neighbourhoods. Barriers to undertaking their roles included time constraints, delays in responses, high workloads and competing pressures. Other factors impacting their effectiveness and ability to undertake their roles included the scheduling of meetings outside of working hours, finding time during busy working days and organising locum cover on an ad hoc basis. The leads also reported they spent more time focussed on building relationships with their peers and less time focussed on general practice colleagues. Support for CP neighbourhood leads could include ensuring that funded time is protected; communication and technology training; and the provision of more structural support for communication with GPs. The findings of this study can be used to inform future work.
Parallel CV-QRNG with Strict Entropy Evaluation
Authors: Zheng Zhicang , Guo Xiaomin , Lin Fading , Wang Yingqi , Wang Yu , Guo Yanqiang
Published: July 2023

Continuous-variable quantum random number generators (CV-QRNGs) have promising application prospects thanks to their advantages such as high detection bandwidth, robustness of system, and integratability. In major CV-QRNGs, the generation of random numbers is based on homodyne detection and discretization of the quadrature fluctuations of the EM fields. Any defectiveness in physical realization may leak information correlated with the generated numbers and the maximal amount of randomness that can be extracted in presence of such side-information is evaluated by the so-called quantum conditional min-entropy. The parallel CV-QRNG overcomes the rate bottleneck of the previous serial type scheme. As a type of device-trusted QRNG, its security needs to be better guaranteed based on self-testing or monitoring that can be rigorously enforced. In this work, four sideband modes of vacuum state within 1.6 GHz detection bandwidth were extracted parallelly as the entropy source, and 16-bit analog-to-digital conversion in each channel was realized. Without making any ideal assumptions, the transfer function of the homodyne and quantization system was measured based on beat method to calibrate the evaluation of the min-entropy. Based on the rigorous entropy evaluation with a hash security parameter of εhash = 2−110, a real-time generation rate of 7.25 Gbps was finally achieved.
Nanotechnology in Food and Plant Science: Challenges and Future Prospects
Authors: Ansari Mohammad Azam
Published: July 2023

Globally, food safety and security are receiving a lot of attention to ensure a steady supply of nutrient-rich and safe food. Nanotechnology is used in a wide range of technical processes, including the development of new materials and the enhancement of food safety and security. Nanomaterials are used to improve the protective effects of food and help detect microbial contamination, hazardous chemicals, and pesticides. Nanosensors are used to detect pathogens and allergens in food. Food processing is enhanced further by nanocapsulation, which allows for the delivery of bioactive compounds, increases food bioavailability, and extends food shelf life. Various forms of nanomaterials have been developed to improve food safety and enhance agricultural productivity, including nanometals, nanorods, nanofilms, nanotubes, nanofibers, nanolayers, and nanosheets. Such materials are used for developing nanofertilizers, nanopesticides, and nanomaterials to induce plant growth, genome modification, and transgene expression in plants. Nanomaterials have antimicrobial properties, promote plants’ innate immunity, and act as delivery agents for active ingredients. Nanocomposites offer good acid-resistance capabilities, effective recyclability, significant thermostability, and enhanced storage stability. Nanomaterials have been extensively used for the targeted delivery and release of genes and proteins into plant cells. In this review article, we discuss the role of nanotechnology in food safety and security. Furthermore, we include a partial literature survey on the use of nanotechnology in food packaging, food safety, food preservation using smart nanocarriers, the detection of food-borne pathogens and allergens using nanosensors, and crop growth and yield improvement; however, extensive research on nanotechnology is warranted.
Genomics for Yield and Yield Components in Durum Wheat
Authors: Taranto Francesca , Esposito Salvatore , De Vita Pasquale
Published: July 2023

In recent years, many efforts have been conducted to dissect the genetic basis of yield and yield components in durum wheat thanks to linkage mapping and genome-wide association studies. In this review, starting from the analysis of the genetic bases that regulate the expression of yield for developing new durum wheat varieties, we have highlighted how, currently, the reductionist approach, i.e., dissecting the yield into its individual components, does not seem capable of ensuring significant yield increases due to diminishing resources, land loss, and ongoing climate change. However, despite the identification of genes and/or chromosomal regions, controlling the grain yield in durum wheat is still a challenge, mainly due to the polyploidy level of this species. In the review, we underline that the next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies coupled with improved wheat genome assembly and high-throughput genotyping platforms, as well as genome editing technology, will revolutionize plant breeding by providing a great opportunity to capture genetic variation that can be used in breeding programs. To date, genomic selection provides a valuable tool for modeling optimal allelic combinations across the whole genome that maximize the phenotypic potential of an individual under a given environment.
Overexpression of Sly-miR398b Compromises Disease Resistance against Botrytis cinerea through Regulating ROS Homeostasis and JA-Related Defense Genes in Tomato
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Yu Yiren , Fei Shihong , Chen Yuxin , Xu Yunmin , Zhu Zhujun , He Yong
Published: July 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be critical components in plant immunity. MicroRNA398 (miR398) is a highly conserved miRNA in all land plants and plays crucial roles in diverse biotic stress responses. However, the role of miR398 has not yet been characterized in tomato resistance against Botrytis cinerea. In this report, the transcript levels of sly-miR398b were strongly decreased in B. cinerea-infected leaves and the overexpression of sly-miR398b resulted in enhanced susceptibility. The attenuated expression of cytosol Cu/Zn-SOD (CSD1), chloroplast Cu/Zn-SOD (CSD2), and guaiacol peroxidase (GPOD), as well as the decreased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and GPOD, collectively led to increased hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) accumulation in sly-miR398b overexpressing plants. Furthermore, sly-miR398b was induced by methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment. The overexpression of sly-miR398b suppressed the expression of TomLoxD, LapA, and PR-STH2 in response to B. cinerea and MeJA treatment. Our data demonstrate that sly-miR398b overexpression negatively regulates the resistance to B. cinerea in tomato by inducing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and downregulating the expression of MeJA-responsive defense genes.
Metal Ions, Element Speciation Forms Retained on Wet Chitin: Quantitative Aspects of Adsorption and Implications for Biomonitoring and Environmental Technology
Authors: Fränzle Stefan
Published: July 2023

Analyses of mosses and lichens provide some information on the contents of both particulate and dissolved (from hydrometeors including snow and flooding) metal ions and other elements like As and Sb in the local environment. However, this information is compromised by rarity (and thus duly legal protection) of suitable species (particularly lichens) for regular sampling and also by poorly understood mechanisms of binding. Hence, it is crucial to find an alternative that does not harm or kill rare and/or protected organisms for sampling purposes while providing data that can be traced to environmental levels (e.g., metal ions in water) in a comprehensible way. Studying the coordination of aq. metal ions on some biogenic surface which can form ligating bonds to these ions provides such information. The most abundant and thus cheap such biopolymer acting as both a possible ligand and a water- (or environment-)biomass interface is chitin. Data from chitin exposed in either water, common sandy sediments, and ferric gels delivered by Fe-oxidizing bacteria are processed to understand adsorption in quantitative terms depending on local conditions, accounting for observed BCFs >> 1 for certain elements (Bi, V, LREEs). Slopes of functions that describe the increase of retention of some element upon increasing aq. concentrations allow us to construct (a) some function giving BCF by numerical integration, (b) predict the behavior of other elements for which certain parameters guiding complex formation are known as well. It turns out that top sensitivities (maximum BCF- or partition factor) values are reached with different elements depending on the environment the chitin sample was exposed to. PF can extend the detection and determination of many elements below levels directly observable in water or sediments. The detection of fallout radionuclides on chitin is even more sensitive (by a factor of 20–25) because of omitting dilution in workup by direct observation of γ radiation.
Degradation Behavior of Biodegradable Man-Made Fibers in Natural Soil and in Compost
Authors: Borelbach Pia , Kopitzky Rodion , Dahringer Jörg , Gutmann Patrick
Published: July 2023

In open environment applications, fibers are increasingly being used that are expected to biodegrade in the soil after their desired service life. Biodegradable polymer fibers are a versatile alternative to natural fibers. In this study, the degradation behavior of fibers made from polylactic acid (PLA) and a polyhydroxy alkanoate (PHA) blend with PLA, as well as a bicomponent fiber (BICO) made from polybutylene succinate (PBS) and PLA, was investigated. The fibers were stored in topsoil at 23 °C for 12 weeks. In addition, fibers were stored in compost at 58 °C for 4 weeks to investigate the degradation behavior in an industrial composting plant. Reference materials were also stored without substrate under the same temperatures and humidity conditions. Samples were taken regularly, and mechanical testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and infrared spectroscopy (IR) were used to study the degradation of the fibers. After 12 weeks in soil at ambient temperatures, the PLA and BICO fibers showed no degradation. The PHA fibers showed cracks in SEM, a decrease in molecular weight, and changes in the IR spectrum. No evidence of biological influence (bacteria or fungi) was found. Under industrial composting conditions, all fibers showed a decrease in strength and molecular weight. For the BICO and the PHA fibers, the SEM images show significant changes. Especially in the PHA fibers, fungal mycelia can be seen. The studies provide a better insight into the processes involved in the degradation behavior under different environmental conditions.
Effect of Degradation in Small Intestinal Fluids on Mechanical Properties of Polycaprolactone and Poly-l-lactide-co-caprolactone
Authors: Peerlinck Sam , Miserez Marc , Reynaerts Dominiek , Gorissen Benjamin
Published: July 2023

Polycaprolactone and poly-l-lactide-co-caprolactone are promising degradable biomaterials for many medical applications. Their mechanical properties, especially a low elastic modulus, make them particularly interesting for implantable devices and scaffolds that target soft tissues like the small intestine. However, the specific environment and mechanical loading in the intestinal lumen pose harsh boundary conditions on the design of these devices, and little is known about the degradation of those mechanical properties in small intestinal fluids. Here, we perform tensile tests on injection molded samples of both polymers during in vitro degradation of up to 70 days in human intestinal fluids. We report on yield stress, Young’s modulus, elongation at break and viscoelastic parameters describing both materials at regular time steps during the degradation. These characteristics are bench-marked against degradation studies of the same materials in other media. As a result, we offer time dependent mechanical properties that can be readily used for the development of medical devices that operate in the small intestine.
Surface Roughness and Grain Size Variation When 3D Printing Polyamide 11 Parts Using Selective Laser Sintering
Authors: Tonello Riccardo , Conradsen Knut , Pedersen David Bue , Frisvad Jeppe Revall
Published: July 2023

Selective laser sintering (SLS) is a well-established technology that is used for additive manufacturing. Significant efforts have been made to improve SLS by optimizing the powder deposition, laser beam parameters, and temperature settings. The purpose is to ensure homogeneous sintering and prevent geometric and appearance inaccuracies in the manufactured objects. We evaluated the differences in the surface roughness and grain size of curved objects manufactured by using upcoming SLS technology that features two CO laser sources. Our analysis was carried out on polyamide 11 (PA11), which is a sustainable biobased polymer that has been gaining popularity due to its high-performance properties: its low melting point, high viscosity, and excellent mechanical properties. By using a Taguchi experimental design and analysis of variance (ANOVA), we examined the influence on the surface roughness and grain size of the build setup, the presence of thin walls, and the position of the sample on the powder bed. We found significant differences in some surface roughness and grain size measurements when these parameters were changed.
Development of Epoxy and Urethane Thermosetting Resin Using Chlorella sp. as Curing Agent for Materials with Low Environmental Impact
Authors: Iritani Kohei , Nakanishi Akihito , Nihei Rinka , Sugitani Shiomi , Yamashita Takashi
Published: July 2023

In the current system, the disposal of plastic materials causes serious environmental pollution such as the generation of carbon dioxide and destruction of the ecosystem by micro-plastics. To solve this problem, bioplastics, biomass and biodegradable plastics have been developed. As part of our research, we have developed novel bioplastics called “cell-plastics”, in which a unicellular green algal cell serves as a fundamental resource. The production of the cell-plastics would be expected to reduce environmental impact due to the usage of a natural product. Herein, to overcome the mechanical strength of cell-plastics, we used thermosetting epoxy and urethane resins containing Chlorella sp. as the green algae. We successfully fabricated thermosetting resins with a Chlorella sp. content of approximately 70 wt% or more. IR measurements revealed that the chemical structure of an epoxide or isocyanate monomer mixed with Chlorella sp. was modified, which suggests that the resins were hardened by the chemical reaction. In addition, we investigated the effect of thermosetting conditions such as temperature and compression for curing both resins. It was revealed that the Young’s moduli and tensile strengths were controlled by thermosetting temperature and compression, whereas the elongation ratios of the resins were constant at low values regardless of the conditions.
Electrospun Poly-L-Lactic Acid Scaffolds Surface-Modified via Reactive Magnetron Sputtering Using Different Mixing Ratios of Nitrogen and Xenon
Authors: Maryin Pavel V. , Tran Tuan-Hoang , Frolova Anastasia A. , Buldakov Mikhail A. , Choinzonov Evgeny L. , Kozelskaya Anna I. , Rutkowski Sven , Tverdokhlebov Sergei I.
Published: July 2023

Controlled regeneration processes involving tissue growth using the surface and structure of scaffolds, are actively used in tissue engineering. Reactive magnetron sputtering is a versatile surface modification method of both metal and polymer substrates, as the properties of the formed coatings can be modified in a wide range by changing the process parameters. In magnetron sputtering, the working gas and its composition have an influence on the chemical composition and physical characteristics of the obtained coatings. However, there are no studies addressing the influence of the nitrogen/xenon gas mixture ratio in direct current magnetron sputtering on the deposition rate, physicochemical and in vitro properties of surface-modified biocompatible poly-L-lactic acid scaffolds. In this study, the application of mixtures of nitrogen and xenon in various ratios is demonstrated to modify the surface of non-woven poly-L-lactic acid scaffolds by direct current magnetron sputtering of a titanium target. It has been found that the magnetron sputtering parameters chosen do not negatively influence the morphology of the prepared scaffolds, but increase the hydrophilicity. Moreover, quantitative spectroscopic analysis results indicate that the formed coatings are primarily composed of titanium oxide and titanium oxynitride compounds and is dependent on the gas mixture ratio only to a certain extent. Atomic force microscopy investigations of the roughness of the fibers of the electrospun scaffolds and the thickness of the coatings formed on them show that the considerable variations observed in the intrinsic fiber reliefs are due to the formation of a fine layer on the fiber surfaces. The observed decrease in roughness after plasma modification is due to temperature and radiation effects of the plasma. In vitro experiments with human osteosarcoma cells show that the scaffolds investigated here have no cytotoxic effect on these cells. The cells adhere and proliferate well on each of the surface-modified electrospun scaffolds, with stimulation of cell differentiation in the osteogenic direction.
The Evolution and Future Trends of Unsaturated Polyester Biocomposites: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Gañán Piedad , Barajas Jaime , Zuluaga Robin , Castro Cristina , Marín Daniel , Tercjak Agnieszka , Builes Daniel H.
Published: July 2023

Unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) is one of the first commercialized polymer matrices for composites reinforced with glass fibers, but has remained popular to this day. To reduce their environmental impact, natural fibers have been used as reinforcements. Researchers all over the world are still interested in these composites, and numerous papers have been published in the last four decades. Using bibliometric analysis, this work provides compiled, structured, and relevant information about the evolution and current state of these materials. This first study on UPR biocomposites based on bibliometric analysis examined 531 published papers identified in the Scopus database from 1982 to July 2022. An analysis of the most active states, leading institutions, and leading authors is followed by the identification of key areas such as the most common natural fibers used as reinforcements, fiber treatments, and composite design parameters such as processing techniques; recently, composite testing; and technological applications. The findings emphasize the importance of staying active in this global field and provide information on novel promising topics for future research.