bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speciation Characteristics and Ecological Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Municipal Sludge of Huainan, China
Authors: You Mu , Hu Yunhu , Yan Yule , Yao Jie
Published: November 2021

In order to fully understand the morphological characteristics and pollution status of heavy metals in the dewatered sludge of Huainan Municipal sewage treatment plant, the physical and chemical properties were analyzed, and the content and occurrence forms of heavy metals (As, Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd, Cr, and Ni) in the sludge were studied using the geological accumulation method (Igeo), risk assessment coding method (RAC), and potential ecological risk index method to evaluate the ecological risk. The results showed that the municipal sludge in Huainan was rich in nutrients, with good prospects for agricultural utilization. There were differences in the morphological distributions of different heavy metals. The Igeo values for Ni, As, Cr, and Pb were below 0. The results of RAC indicated that the risk level of Cr in sludge was a low risk, and those of other heavy metals were moderate risks. The potential ecological risk of Cd had the highest potential ecological risk, and the other six metals were of low ecological risk. This conclusion can provide basic data and a theoretical reference for the comprehensive utilization of sludge in sewage treatment plants.
Changes in Organic Acids, Phenolic Compounds, and Antioxidant Activities of Lemon Juice Fermented by Issatchenkia terricola
Authors: Liu Biao , Yuan Dongxia , Li Qiaoyue , Zhou Xin , Wu Hao , Bao Yihong , Lu Hongyun , Luo Ting , Wang Jinling
Published: November 2021

High content of citric acid in lemon juice leads to poor sensory experience. The study aimed to investigate the dynamics changes in organic acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activities of lemon juice fermented with Issatchenkia terricola WJL-G4. The sensory evaluation of fermented lemon juice was conducted as well. Issatchenkia terricola WJL-G4 exhibited a potent capability of reducing the contents of citric acid (from 51.46 ± 0.11 g/L to 8.09 ± 0.05 g/L within 60 h fermentation) and increasing total phenolic level, flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activities compared to those of unfermented lemon juice. A total of 20 bioactive substances, including 10 phenolic acids and 10 flavonoid compounds, were detected both in fermented and unfermented lemon juice. The lemon juice fermented for 48 h had better sensory characteristics. Our findings demonstrated that lemon juice fermented with Issatchenkia terricola exhibited reduced citric acid contents, increased levels of health-promoting phenolic compounds, and enhanced antioxidant activities.
Application of Artificial Neural Network Based on Traditional Detection and GC-MS in Prediction of Free Radicals in Thermal Oxidation of Vegetable Oil
Authors: Huang Shengquan , Liu Ying , Sun Xuyuan , Li Jinwei
Published: November 2021

In this study, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques were applied to reveal the variation of lipid free radicals and oxidized volatile products of four oils in the thermal process. The EPR results showed the signal intensities of linseed oil (LO) were the highest, followed by sunflower oil (SO), rapeseed oil (RO), and palm oil (PO). Moreover, the signal intensities of the four oils increased with heating time. GC-MS results showed that (E)-2-decenal, (E,E)-2,4-decadienal, and 2-undecenal were the main volatile compounds of oxidized oil. Besides, the oxidized PO and LO contained the highest and lowest contents of volatiles, respectively. According to the oil characteristics, an artificial neural network (ANN) intelligent evaluation model of free radicals was established. The coefficients of determination (R2) of ANN models were more than 0.97, and the difference between the true and predicted values was small, which indicated that oil profiles combined with chemometrics can accurately predict the free radical of thermal oxidized oil.
Interaction Energy Analysis of Monovalent Inorganic Anions in Bulk Water Versus Air/Water Interface
Authors: Herbert John M. , Paul Suranjan K.
Published: November 2021

Soft anions exhibit surface activity at the air/water interface that can be probed using surface-sensitive vibrational spectroscopy, but the structural implications of this surface activity remain a matter of debate. Here, we examine the nature of anion–water interactions at the air/water interface using a combination of molecular dynamics simulations and quantum-mechanical energy decomposition analysis based on symmetry-adapted perturbation theory. Results are presented for a set of monovalent anions, including Cl−, Br−, I−, CN−, OCN−, SCN−, NO2−, NO3−, and ClOn− (n=1,2,3,4), several of which are archetypal examples of surface-active species. In all cases, we find that average anion–water interaction energies are systematically larger in bulk water although the difference (with respect to the same quantity computed in the interfacial environment) is well within the magnitude of the instantaneous fluctuations. Specifically for the surface-active species Br−(aq), I−(aq), ClO4−(aq), and SCN−(aq), and also for ClO−(aq), the charge-transfer (CT) energy is found to be larger at the interface than it is in bulk water, by an amount that is greater than the standard deviation of the fluctuations. The Cl−(aq) ion has a slightly larger CT energy at the interface, but NO3−(aq) does not; these two species are borderline cases where consensus is lacking regarding their surface activity. However, CT stabilization amounts to <20% of the total induction energy for each of the ions considered here, and CT-free polarization energies are systematically larger in bulk water in all cases. As such, the role of these effects in the surface activity of soft anions remains unclear. This analysis complements our recent work suggesting that the short-range solvation structure around these ions is scarcely different at the air/water interface from what it is in bulk water. Together, these observations suggest that changes in first-shell hydration structure around soft anions cannot explain observed surface activities.
Development of Triazoles and Triazolium Salts Based on AZT and Their Anti-Viral Activity against HIV-1
Authors: de Alencar Daniel Machado , Gonçalves Juliana , Vieira Andreia , Cerqueira Sofia A. , Sebastião Cruz , Leitão Maria Inês P. S. , Francescato Giulia , Antenori Paola , Soares Helena , Petronilho Ana
Published: November 2021

We report herein a set of 3′-azido-3′-deoxythymidine (AZT) derivatives based on triazoles and triazolium salts for HIV-1 infection. The compounds were synthesized via click chemistry with Cu(I) and Ru(II) catalysts. Triazolium salts were synthesized by reaction with methyl iodide or methyl triflate in good yields. The antiviral activity of the compounds was tested using two methodologies: In method one the activity was measured on infected cells; in method two a pre-exposure prophylaxis experimental model was employed. For method one the activity of the compounds was moderate, and in general the triazolium salts showed a decreased activity in relation to their triazole precursors. With method two the antiviral activity was higher. All compounds were able to decrease the infection, with two compounds able to clear almost all the infection, while a lower antiviral activity was noted for the triazolium salts. These results suggest that these drugs could play an important role in the development of pre-exposure prophylaxis therapies.
Comparison of Different d-SPE Sorbent Performances Based on Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERS) Methodology for Multiresidue Pesticide Analyses in Rapeseeds
Authors: Belarbi Saida , Vivier Martin , Zaghouani Wafa , De Sloovere Aude , Agasse Valerie , Cardinael Pascal
Published: November 2021

Pesticide extraction in rapeseed samples remains a great analytical challenge due to the complexity of the matrix, which contains proteins, fatty acids, high amounts of triglycerides and cellulosic fibers. An HPLC-MS/MS method was developed for the quantification of 179 pesticides in rapeseeds. The performances of the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) method were evaluated using different dispersive solid-phase extraction (d-SPE) sorbents containing common octadecylsilane silica/primary–secondary amine adsorbent (PSA/C18) and new commercialized d-SPE materials dedicated to fatty matrices (Z-Sep, Z-Sep+, and EMR-Lipid). The analytical performances of these different sorbents were compared according to the SANTE/12682/2019 document. The best results were obtained using EMR-Lipid in terms of pesticide average recoveries (103 and 70 of the 179 targeted pesticides exhibited recoveries within 70–120% and 30–70%, respectively, with low RSD values). Moreover, the limits of quantification (LOQ) range from 1.72 µg/kg to 6.39 µg/kg for 173 of the pesticides. Only the recovery for tralkoxydim at 10 μg/kg level was not satisfactory (29%). The matrix effect was evaluated and proved to be limited between −50% and 50% for 169 pesticides with this EMR-Lipid and freezing. GC-Orbitrap analyses confirmed the best efficiency of the EMR-Lipid sorbent for the purification of rapeseeds.
Proteomic and Bioinformatic Analysis of Decellularized Pancreatic Extracellular Matrices
Authors: Hu Ming , Bi Huanjing , Moffat Deana , Blystone Margaret , DeCostanza Lillian , Alayi Tchilabalo , Ye Kaiming , Hathout Yetrib , Jin Sha
Published: November 2021

Tissue microenvironments are rich in signaling molecules. However, factors in the tissue matrix that can serve as tissue-specific cues for engineering pancreatic tissues have not been thoroughly identified. In this study, we performed a comprehensive proteomic analysis of porcine decellularized pancreatic extracellular matrix (dpECM). By profiling dpECM collected from subjects of different ages and genders, we showed that the detergent-free decellularization method developed in this study permits the preservation of approximately 62.4% more proteins than a detergent-based method. In addition, we demonstrated that dpECM prepared from young pigs contained approximately 68.5% more extracellular matrix proteins than those prepared from adult pigs. Furthermore, we categorized dpECM proteins by biological process, molecular function, and cellular component through gene ontology analysis. Our study results also suggested that the protein composition of dpECM is significantly different between male and female animals while a KEGG enrichment pathway analysis revealed that dpECM protein profiling varies significantly depending on age. This study provides the proteome of pancreatic decellularized ECM in different animal ages and genders, which will help identify the bioactive molecules that are pivotal in creating tissue-specific cues for engineering tissues in vitro.
Evaluation of the Membrane Damage Mechanism of Chlorogenic Acid against Yersinia enterocolitica and Enterobacter sakazakii and Its Application in the Preservation of Raw Pork and Skim Milk
Authors: Tian Lu , Wu Mi , Guo Wenyao , Li Hui , Gai Zhongchao , Gong Guoli
Published: November 2021

Plant-derived antimicrobial agents have adequate antimicrobial effects on food-borne pathogens, which can be used as food preservatives. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial mechanism of chlorogenic acid (CA) against Yersinia enterocolitica and Enterobacter sakazakii. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of CA was determined by employing the broth microdilution method. Then, the cell function and morphological changes of Y. enterocolitica and E. sakazakii treated with CA were characterized. Finally, the growth inhibition models of Y. enterocolitica in raw pork and E. sakazakii in skim milk were constructed through the response surface methodology. The results demonstrated that CA has a satisfactory inhibitory effect against Y. enterocolitica and E. sakazakii with a MIC of 2.5 mg/mL. In addition, CA inhibited the growth of Y. enterocolitica and E. sakazakii via cell membrane damage, such as depolarization of the cell membrane, reduction in intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and pH levels, and destruction of cell morphology. Moreover, CA reduced two log cycles of Y. enterocolitica in raw pork and E. sakazakii in skim milk at a certain temperature. According to the corresponding findings, CA has the potential to be developed as an effective preservative to control Y. enterocolitica and E. sakazakii-associated foodborne diseases.
Thermo-Magneto-Electric Transport through a Torsion Dislocation in a Type I Weyl Semimetal
Authors: Bonilla Daniel , Muñoz Enrique , Soto-Garrido Rodrigo
Published: November 2021

Herein, we study electronic and thermoelectric transport in a type I Weyl semimetal nanojunction, with a torsional dislocation defect, in the presence of an external magnetic field parallel to the dislocation axis. The defect is modeled in a cylindrical geometry, as a combination of a gauge field accounting for torsional strain and a delta-potential barrier for the lattice mismatch effect. In the Landauer formalism, we find that due to the combination of strain and magnetic field, the electric current exhibits chiral valley-polarization, and the conductance displays the signature of Landau levels. We also compute the thermal transport coefficients, where a high thermopower and a large figure of merit are predicted for the junction.
Investigation into the Use of Microfluidics in the Manufacture of Metallic Gold-Coated Iron Oxide Hybrid Nanoparticles
Authors: Oluwasanmi Adeolu , Man Ernest , Curtis Anthony , Yiu Humphrey H. P. , Perrie Yvonne , Hoskins Clare
Published: November 2021

Hybrid iron oxide-gold nanoparticles are of increasing interest for applications in nanomedicine, photonics, energy storage, etc. However, they are often difficult to synthesise without experience or ‘know-how’. Additionally, standard protocols do not allow for scale up, and this is significantly hindering their future potential. In this study, we seek to determine whether microfluidics could be used as a new manufacturing process to reliably produce hybrid nanoparticles with the line of sight to their continuous manufacture and scaleup. Using a Precision Nano NanoAssemblr Benchtop® system, we were able to perform the intermediate coating steps required in order to construct hybrid nanoparticles around 60 nm in size with similar chemical and physical properties to those synthesised in the laboratory using standard processes, with Fe/Au ratios of 1:0.6 (standard) and 1:0.7 (microfluidics), indicating that the process was suitable for their manufacture with optimisation required in order to configure a continuous manufacturing plant.
First-Principle Investigations on the Electronic and Transport Properties of PbBi2Te2X2 (X = S/Se/Te) Monolayers
Authors: Ma Weiliang , Tian Jing , Boulet Pascal , Record Marie-Christine
Published: November 2021

This paper reports first-principles calculations on PbBi2Te2S2, PbBi2Te2Se2 and PbBi2Te4 monolayers. The strain effects on their electronic and thermoelectric properties as well as on their stability have been investigated. Without strain, the PbBi2Te4 monolayer exhibits highest Seebeck coefficient with a maximum value of 671 μV/K. Under tensile strain the highest power factor are 12.38×1011 Wm−1K−2s−1, 10.74×1011 Wm−1K−2s−1 and 6.51×1011 Wm−1K−2s−1 for PbBi2Te2S2, PbBi2Te2Se2 and PbBi2Te4 at 3%, 2% and 1% tensile strains, respectively. These values are 85.9%, 55.0% and 3.3% larger than those of the unstrained structures.
Temperature-Dependent Growth of 36 Inner Nanotubes inside Nickelocene, Cobaltocene and Ferrocene-Filled Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Kharlamova Marianna V. , Kramberger Christian
Published: November 2021

We have investigated the effects of temperature, diameter and metal catalyst type on the growth of inner nanotubes inside metallocene-filled single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). The effects on the yield of different chiralities of inner nanotubes were scrutinized by multifrequency Raman spectroscopy. The investigated diameters range from ~0.7 to 1.3 nm and comprise 36 distinct chiralities. For all three investigated metals (Ni, Co, Fe), there is a linear correlation of growth temperature with nanotube diameter. The common slope for these metals is found to be 40.5 °C/Å. The temperature difference between the largest and the smallest diameter tubes amounts to ~230 °C for all three precursors. The growth temperatures are offset by 34 °C from Ni to Co and another 28 °C from Co to Fe. The quantified correlations of temperature, diameter and metal catalyst type provide the basis for engineering the diameter-specific growth of nanotubes.
The Interactions between Nanoparticles and the Innate Immune System from a Nanotechnologist Perspective
Authors: Ernst Lena , Casals Eudald , Italiani Paola , Boraschi Diana , Puntes Victor
Published: November 2021

The immune system contributes to maintaining the body’s functional integrity through its two main functions: recognizing and destroying foreign external agents (invading microorganisms) and identifying and eliminating senescent cells and damaged or abnormal endogenous entities (such as cellular debris or misfolded/degraded proteins). Accordingly, the immune system can detect molecular and cellular structures with a spatial resolution of a few nm, which allows for detecting molecular patterns expressed in a great variety of pathogens, including viral and bacterial proteins and bacterial nucleic acid sequences. Such patterns are also expressed in abnormal cells. In this context, it is expected that nanostructured materials in the size range of proteins, protein aggregates, and viruses with different molecular coatings can engage in a sophisticated interaction with the immune system. Nanoparticles can be recognized or passed undetected by the immune system. Once detected, they can be tolerated or induce defensive (inflammatory) or anti-inflammatory responses. This paper describes the different modes of interaction between nanoparticles, especially inorganic nanoparticles, and the immune system, especially the innate immune system. This perspective should help to propose a set of selection rules for nanosafety-by-design and medical nanoparticle design.
Grifola frondosa (Maitake) Extract Reduces Fat Accumulation and Improves Health Span in C. elegans through the DAF-16/FOXO and SKN-1/NRF2 Signalling Pathways
Authors: Aranaz Paula , Peña Adriana , Vettorazzi Ariane , Fabra María José , Martínez-Abad Antonio , López-Rubio Amparo , Pera Joan , Parladé Javier , Castellari Massimo , Milagro Fermín I. , González-Navarro Carlos J.
Published: November 2021

In recent years, food ingredients rich in bioactive compounds have emerged as candidates to prevent excess adiposity and other metabolic complications characteristic of obesity, such as low-grade inflammation and oxidative status. Among them, fungi have gained popularity for their high polysaccharide content and other bioactive components with beneficial activities. Here, we use the C. elegans model to investigate the potential activities of a Grifola frondosa extract (GE), together with the underlying mechanisms of action. Our study revealed that GE represents an important source of polysaccharides and phenolic compounds with in vitro antioxidant activity. Treatment with our GE extract, which was found to be nongenotoxic through a SOS/umu test, significantly reduced the fat content of C. elegans, decreased the production of intracellular ROS and aging–lipofuscin pigment, and increased the lifespan of nematodes. Gene expression and mutant analyses demonstrated that the in vivo anti-obesity and antioxidant activities of GE were mediated through the daf-2/daf-16 and skn-1/nrf-2 signalling pathways, respectively. Taken together, our results suggest that our GE extract could be considered a potential functional ingredient for the prevention of obesity-related disturbances.
Parasitology and One Health—Perspectives on Africa and Beyond
Authors: Lorusso Vincenzo
Published: November 2021

This concept paper reviews issues pertaining to parasitic and vector-borne infections, of humans, animals, or both, of topical relevance to the African continent as well as to neighbouring and interconnected geographies. This analysis is carried out through the “One Health” lens, being mindful of the central role of agriculture and livestock keeping in Africa’s sustainable development. The possible agricultural transformation that the continent may undergo to fulfil the rising demand for animal protein of its growing population, coupled with the ongoing climate changes, may lead to potentially enhanced interactions among humans, domesticated and wild animals, in a fast-changing environment. In this view, tackling parasitic conditions of livestock can prove being multidimensionally beneficial by improving animal health as well as communities’ food security, livelihood and public health. Accordingly, the value of applying the One Health approach to drug discovery and development in the fight against parasitic neglected tropical diseases and zoonoses, is also underscored. Overall, this article upholds the adoption of a holistic, global, interdisciplinary, multisectoral, harmonised and forward-looking outlook, encompassing both life and social sciences, when dealing with parasitic conditions of humans and animals, in Africa and beyond, in COVID-19 times and further.
Cutaneous Granulomatosis Revealing Whipple’s Disease: Value of Tropheryma whipplei Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay for the Diagnosis
Authors: Zayet Souheil , Isnard Pierre , Bustamante Jacinta , Boutboul David , Abroug Sarra , Belfeki Nabil
Published: November 2021

Whipple’s Disease is a rare systemic infectious disease caused by the ubiquitous actinomycetes Tropheryma whipplei (T. whipplei). We report herein a rare case of a cutaneous granulo matosis with hypercalcemia as an unusual presenting feature of Whipple’s disease. The diagnosis of the bacteria was obtained from skin and inguinal lymph node biopsy (16 rDNA PCR screening and histological examination using PAS staining). T. whipplei was also identified on saliva and stool specimens, using specific PCR and colonic biopsies. Treatment with hydroxychloroquine and doxycycline allowed a rapid resolution of symptoms with a complete recovery.
Bluetongue Virus Infections in Cattle Herds of Manabí Province of Ecuador
Authors: De la Torre Euclides , Moreira Nixon , Saegerman Claude , De Clercq Kris , Salinas María , Maldonado Alex , Jarrín David , Sol Vaca María , Pachacama Silvia , Espinoza Jorge , Delgado Hipatia , Barrera Maritza
Published: November 2021

Bluetongue (BT) is a viral disease transmitted by Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) to domestic and wild ruminants. Infections in cattle are mainly subclinical, but severe necrotic and hemorrhagic illness and death may occur depending on the strain of the virus and other factors; cattle act as a reservoir for the virus. Although the Ecuadorian coast has climatic conditions that favor the presence of the vector, there are few serologic or virologic BTV studies available. Manabí is a coastal province in which livestock farming is mostly implemented in the northern part. We conducted two studies to assess, for the first time, the presence of active BTV infections in Manabí province. We collected 430 serum samples from 38 randomly selected farms between March and July 2019 to perform BTV competitive ELISA. In addition, six seropositive farms were selected to place eight sentinel BTV-naive calves. All these calves were blood sampled and the presence of BTV RNA and antibodies was tested for by RT-PCR and competitive ELISA, respectively, once a week for 6–8 weeks until seroconversion was evidenced. A high individual seroprevalence (99%) was obtained, and all investigated farms had BTV seropositive animals. All sentinel calves became BTV viremic and seroconverted. The first viremia appeared after 2–5 weeks from arrival at the farm; they seroconverted 1–3 weeks later. We demonstrate for the first time that there is a high level of BTV circulation north of Manabí, with active infections on these farms. Integrated control strategies such as hygienic measures on farms to reduce midge populations would be advisable for the owners as mitigation measures.
In Vitro 3D Staphylococcus aureus Abscess Communities Induce Bone Marrow Cells to Expand into Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells
Authors: Hofstee Marloes I. , Heider Anja , Häckel Sonja , Constant Caroline , Riool Martijn , Richards R. Geoff , Moriarty T. Fintan , Zaat Sebastian A. J.
Published: November 2021

Staphylococcus aureus is the main causative pathogen of subcutaneous, bone, and implant-related infections, forming structures known as staphylococcal abscess communities (SACs) within tissues that also contain immunosuppressive myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Although both SACs and MDSCs are present in chronic S. aureus infections, it remains unknown whether SACs directly trigger MDSC expansion. To investigate this, a previously developed 3D in vitro SAC model was co-cultured with murine and human bone marrow cells. Subsequently, it was shown that SAC-exposed human CD11blow/− myeloid cells or SAC-exposed murine CD11b+ Gr-1+ cells were immunosuppressive mainly by reducing absolute CD4+ and CD8α+ T cell numbers, as shown in T cell proliferation assays and with flow cytometry. Monocytic MDSCs from mice with an S. aureus bone infection also strongly reduced CD4+ and CD8α+ T cell numbers. Using protein biomarker analysis and an immunoassay, we detected in SAC–bone marrow co-cultures high levels of GM-CSF, IL-6, VEGF, IL-1β, TNFα, IL-10, and TGF-β. Furthermore, SAC-exposed neutrophils expressed Arg-1 and SAC-exposed monocytes expressed Arg-1 and iNOS, as shown via immunofluorescent stains. Overall, this study showed that SACs cause MDSC expansion from bone marrow cells and identified possible mediators to target as an additional strategy for treating chronic S. aureus infections.
The Global Emergence of Human Babesiosis
Authors: Kumar Abhinav , O’Bryan Jane , Krause Peter
Published: November 2021

Babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease caused by intraerythrocytic protozoa that are primarily transmitted by hard-bodied (ixodid) ticks and rarely through blood transfusion, perinatally, and organ transplantation. More than 100 Babesia species infect a wide spectrum of wild and domestic animals worldwide and six have been identified as human pathogens. Babesia microti is the predominant species that infects humans, is found throughout the world, and causes endemic disease in the United States and China. Babesia venatorum and Babesia crassa-like agent also cause endemic disease in China. Babesia divergens is the predominant species in Europe where fulminant cases have been reported sporadically. The number of B. microti infections has been increasing globally in recent decades. In the United States, more than 2000 cases are reported each year, although the actual number is thought to be much higher. In this review of the epidemiology of human babesiosis, we discuss epidemiologic tools used to monitor disease location and frequency; demographics and modes of transmission; the location of human babesiosis; the causative Babesia species in the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia; the primary clinical characteristics associated with each of these infections; and the increasing global health burden of this disease.
In Vivo Electroporation of Plasmid DNA: A Promising Strategy for Rapid, Inexpensive, and Flexible Delivery of Anti-Viral Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Pagant Silvere , Liberatore Rachel A.
Published: November 2021

Since the first approval of monoclonal antibodies by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1986, therapeutic antibodies have become one of the predominant classes of drugs in oncology and immunology. Despite their natural function in contributing to antiviral immunity, antibodies as drugs have only more recently been thought of as tools for combating infectious diseases. Passive immunization, or the delivery of the products of an immune response, offers near-immediate protection, unlike the active immune processes triggered by traditional vaccines, which rely on the time it takes for the host’s immune system to develop an effective defense. This rapid onset of protection is particularly well suited to containing outbreaks of emerging viral diseases. Despite these positive attributes, the high cost associated with antibody manufacture and the need for a cold chain for storage and transport limit their deployment on a global scale, especially in areas with limited resources. The in vivo transfer of nucleic acid-based technologies encoding optimized therapeutic antibodies transform the body into a bioreactor for rapid and sustained production of biologics and hold great promise for circumventing the obstacles faced by the traditional delivery of antibodies. In this review, we provide an overview of the different antibody delivery strategies that are currently being developed, with particular emphasis on in vivo transfection of naked plasmid DNA facilitated by electroporation.
Efficacy of Photodynamic Inactivation against the Major Human Antibiotic-Resistant Uropathogens
Authors: Ignatova Nadezhda , Ivanova Tatiana , Antonyan Artem , Budruev Ivan , Streltsova Olga , Elagin Vadim , Kamensky Vladislav
Published: November 2021

Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is considered to be an effective method of prevention of postoperative complications of urolithiasis. The present study shows a complex approach to assess the efficacy of PDI of drug resistant bacteria associated with renal calculi. Bacterial strains associated with renal calculi were isolated and identified using standard methods of bacteriological analysis and tested for drug resistance to 10 antibiotics by the disco-diffusion method. Uropathogenic bacterial strains present in 78.7 ± 5.2% of the infected samples from the total number of analyzed calculi. The most frequent representatives belonged to the genera Staphylococcus, Escherichia, and Enterococcus. All tested strains showed high antibiotic resistance. Representatives of the most common bacterial genera in the calculi were used as models for the selection of PD exposure modes. It was found that the maximum time of photosensitizer accumulation depends on the structure of the bacterial cell wall: 30 min for Gram-negative strains and 60 min for Gram-positive ones. Optimal modes of PD exposure to antibiotic-resistant uropathogenic microorganisms were selected: 50 µg/mL Fotoditazin and 150 mW laser power. The maximal bactericidal activity of PDI against uropathogenic microorganisms was shown for Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus aureus. The bacteriostatic effect was found against Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis.
Chalcogenide Glass Microfibers for Mid-Infrared Optics
Authors: Cai Dawei , Xie Yu , Guo Xin , Wang Pan , Tong Limin
Published: November 2021

With diameters close to the wavelength of the guided light, optical microfibers (MFs) can guide light with tight optical confinement, strong evanescent fields and manageable waveguide dispersion and have been widely investigated in the past decades for a variety of applications. Compared to silica MFs, which are ideal for working in visible and near-infrared regions, chalcogenide glass (ChG) MFs are promising for mid-infrared (mid-IR) optics, owing to their easy fabrication, broad-band transparency and high nonlinearity, and have been attracting increasing attention in applications ranging from near-field coupling and molecular sensing to nonlinear optics. Here, we review this emerging field, mainly based on its progress in the last decade. Starting from the high-temperature taper drawing technique for MF fabrication, we introduce basic mid-IR waveguiding properties of typical ChG MFs made of As2S3 and As2Se3. Then, we focus on ChG-MF-based passive optical devices, including optical couplers, resonators and gratings and active and nonlinear applications of ChG MFs for mid-IR Raman lasers, frequency combs and supercontinuum (SC) generation. MF-based spectroscopy and chemical/biological sensors are also introduced. Finally, we conclude the review with a brief summary and an outlook on future challenges and opportunities of ChG MFs.
Unravelling the Molecular Regulation Mechanisms of Slow Ripening Trait in Prunus persica
Authors: Núñez-Lillo Gerardo , Ulloa-Zepeda Lissette , Pavez Catalina , Riveros Anibal , Blanco-Herrera Francisca , Campos-Vargas Reinaldo , Pedreschi Romina , Meneses Claudio
Published: November 2021

Fruit development is a complex process that involves the interplay of cell division, expansion, and differentiation. As a model to study fruit development, nectarines incapable of ripening were described as slow ripening. Slow ripening fruits remained firm and exhibited no rise in CO2 or ethylene production rates for one month or more at 20 °C. Different studies suggest that this trait is controlled by a single gene (NAC072). Transcriptome analysis between normal and slow ripening fruits showed a total of 157, 269, 976, and 5.224 differentially expressed genes in each fruit developmental stage analyzed (T1, T2, T3, and T7, respectively), and no expression of NAC072 was found in the slow ripening individuals. Using this transcriptomic information, we identified a correlation of NAC072 with auxin-related genes and two genes associated with terpene biosynthesis. On the other hand, significant differences were observed in hormonal biosynthetic pathways during fruit development between the normal and slow ripening individuals (gibberellin, ethylene, jasmonic acid and abscisic acid). These results suggest that the absence of NAC072 by the direct or indirect expression control of auxins or terpene-related genes prevents normal peach fruit development.
A Review on the Ethnomedicinal Usage, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Properties of Gentianeae (Gentianaceae) in Tibetan Medicine
Authors: Chi Xiaofeng , Zhang Faqi , Gao Qingbo , Xing Rui , Chen Shilong
Published: November 2021

Gentianaceae is a large plant family and is distributed worldwide. As the largest tribe in Gentianaceae, Gentianeae contains 939–968 species, and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and adjacent areas are the main centers of diversity for Gentianeae. Species from the Gentianeae are widely used in traditional Tibetan medicine. In this review, a systematic and constructive overview of the information on botany, ethnomedicinal usage, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of Gentianeae in Tibetan medicine is provided. The results of this study are based on a literature search, including electronic databases, books, websites, papers, and conference proceedings. Botanical studies showed that Gentianeae includes the subtribe Gentianeae and Swertiinae, and several new genera and taxa have been identified. Approximately 83 species from Gentianeae were used in Tibetan medicine, among which Gentiana and Swertia constituted the largest number of species with 42 and 24 species, respectively. The species from Gentianeae are mainly used as Bangjian (སྤང་རྒྱན།), Jieji (ཀྱི་ལྕེ།), Dida (ཏིག་ཏ།), and Ganggaqiong (གང་གྰཆུང་།) in Tibetan medicine with different clinical applications. More than 240 formulas were found containing Gentianeae species with different attending functions. Phytochemical studies showed that the main active components of Gentianeae species are iridoids, xanthones, flavonoids, and triterpenoids. The bioactivities of plants from Gentianeae include hepatic protection, upper respiratory tract protection, joint and bone protection, glucose regulation, antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer, and antiviral effects. This review will provide a reference for future research on natural resource protection, plant-based drug development, and further clinical investigation.
Identification of New Proteins and Potential Mitochondrial F1F0-ATPase Inhibitor Factor 1-Associated Mechanisms in Arabidopsis thaliana Using iTRAQ-Based Quantitative Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Chen Cuiting , Meng Yiqing , Hu Zhongyuan , Yang Jinghua , Zhang Mingfang
Published: November 2021

The mitochondrial synthesis of ATP makes a vital contribution to the growth and development of biological organisms, in which the enzyme mitochondrial F1F0-ATP synthase plays a pivotal role, in that it can either synthesize or hydrolyze cellular ATP. The finding of our previous study revealed that mitochondrial F1F0-ATPase inhibitor factor 1 (IF1) in Arabidopsis thaliana has a conserved function as an endogenous inhibitor affecting cellular energy status and plays an important role in plant growth and reproduction, particularly in fertility. In this study, to gain an insight into IF1-related traits, we performed isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation labeling analysis. In total, 67 of 4778 identified proteins were identified as differentially expressed proteins (DEPs; 59 up-regulated and 8 down-regulated) between wild-type and if1 mutant Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. Gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed that these DEPs were the most significantly enriched in pathways such as “long-day photoperiodism, flowering,” “positive regulation of protein import into chloroplast stroma,” and “pollen sperm cell differentiation,” which are closely associated with reproductive development. Moreover, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis revealed that photosynthesis was the pathway most significantly enriched with DEPs. Collectively, our results revealed a global shift in protein abundance patterns corresponding to AtIF1 mutation, entailing changes in the abundance of multiple key proteins and metabolic processes, which will provide a valuable proteomic foundation for future studies.
Diterpene Resin Acids and Olefins in Calabrian Pine (Pinus nigra subsp. laricio (Poiret) Maire) Oleoresin: GC-MS Profiling of Major Diterpenoids in Different Plant Organs, Molecular Identification and Expression Analysis of Diterpene Synthase Genes
Authors: Alicandri Enrica , Covino Stefano , Sebastiani Bartolomeo , Paolacci Anna Rita , Badiani Maurizio , Manti Francesco , Bonsignore Carmelo Peter , Sorgonà Agostino , Ciaffi Mario
Published: November 2021

A quali-quantitative analysis of diterpenoid composition in tissues obtained from different organs of Pinus nigra subsp. laricio (Poiret) Maire (Calabrian pine) was carried out. Diterpene resin acids were the most abundant diterpenoids across all the examined tissues. The same nine diterpene resin acids were always found, with the abietane type prevailing on the pimarane type, although their quantitative distribution was found to be remarkably tissue-specific. The scrutiny of the available literature revealed species specificity as well. A phylogeny-based approach allowed us to isolate four cDNAs coding for diterpene synthases in Calabrian pine, each of which belonging to one of the four groups into which the d3 clade of the plants’ terpene synthases family can be divided. The deduced amino acid sequences allowed predicting that both monofunctional and bifunctional diterpene synthases are involved in the biosynthesis of diterpene resin acids in Calabrian pine. Transcript profiling revealed differential expression across the different tissues and was found to be consistent with the corresponding diterpenoid profiles. The isolation of the complete genomic sequences and the determination of their exon/intron structures allowed us to place the diterpene synthase genes from Calabrian pine on the background of current ideas on the functional evolution of diterpene synthases in Gymnosperms.
Seasonal Variability of Photosynthetic Microbial Eukaryotes (<3 µm) in the Kara Sea Revealed by 18S rDNA Metabarcoding of Sediment Trap Fluxes
Authors: Belevich Tatiana A. , Milyutina Irina A. , Troitsky Aleksey V.
Published: November 2021

This survey is the first to explore the seasonal cycle of microbial eukaryote diversity (<3 µm) using the NGS method and a 10-month sediment trap (2018–2019). The long-term trap was deployed from September to June in the northwestern part of the Kara Sea. A water sample collected before the sediment trap was deployed and also analyzed. The taxonomic composition of microbial eukaryotes in the water sample significantly differed from sediment trap samples, characterized by a high abundance of Ciliophora reads and low abundance of Fungi while trap samples contained an order of magnitude less Ciliophora sequences and high contribution of Fungi. Photosynthetic eukaryotes (PEs) accounting for about 34% of total protists reads were assigned to five major divisions: Chlorophyta, Cryptophyta, Dinoflagellata, Haptophyta, and Ochrophyta. The domination of phototrophic algae was revealed in late autumn. Mamiellophyceae and Trebouxiophyceae were the predominant PEs in mostly all of the studied seasons. Micromonas polaris was constantly present throughout the September–June period in the PE community. The obtained results determine the seasonal dynamics of picoplankton in order to improve our understanding of their role in polar ecosystems.
Potential of Inulin-Fructooligosaccharides Extract Produced from Red Onion (Allium cepa var. viviparum (Metz) Mansf.) as an Alternative Prebiotic Product
Authors: Aisara Jakkrit , Wongputtisin Pairote , Deejing Somkid , Maneewong Chutamas , Unban Kridsada , Khanongnuch Chartchai , Kosma Paul , Blaukopf Markus , Kanpiengjai Apinun
Published: November 2021

Red onion is a popular ingredient in many Thai dishes and has recently been promoted for commercial cultivation. In this study, inulin-fructooligosaccharides (inulin-FOSs) were extracted from red onions in a simplified extraction method. The extract contained 24.00 ± 0.38 g/L free glucose, fructose and sucrose, while the level of FOSs was recorded at 74.0 ± 2.80 g/L with a degree of polymerization of 4.1. The extract was resistant to simulated gastrointestinal conditions, while selectively promoting probiotic lactobacilli. These outcomes resulted in inhibitory effects against various pathogenic bacteria. The in vitro batch culture fermentation of the extract by natural mixed culture indicated that an unknown sugar identified as neokestose was more rapidly fermented than 1-kestose and other longer-chain inulin-FOSs. Notably, neokestose selectively encouraged a bifidogenic effect, specifically in terms of the growth of Bifidobacteirum breve, which is an infant-type probiotic bacterium. This is the first report to state that neokestose could selectively enhance the bifidogenic effect. In summary, inulin-FOSs extract should be recognized as a multifunctional ingredient that can offer benefits in food and pharmaceutical applications.
Pollination and Floral Biology of a Rare Morning Glory Species Endemic to Thailand, Argyreia siamensis
Authors: Jirabanjongjit Awapa , Traiperm Paweena , Sando Tomoki , Stewart Alyssa B.
Published: November 2021

Argyreia siamensis is extremely rare, and very little is known about its reproduction. The species has colorful flowers that seem likely to attract pollinators, but population sizes are typically small (<30 individuals). To determine whether poor reproduction contributes to its rarity, we investigated its mating system and potential pollinators in two populations. We also examined the staminal trichomes and floral nectary to investigate their role in pollinator attraction. The mating system was assessed with a bagging experiment and pollinator visits were recorded with action cameras. Additionally, we tested the staminal trichomes and floral nectary for terpenes and flavonoids and examined floral nectary micromorphology via scanning electron microscope and compound light microscope. Our results reveal that A. siamensis is self-incompatible and dependent on pollinators; the western population was pollinated by bees (Meliponini and Amegilla), while the eastern population was mainly pollinated by skipper butterflies (Hesperiidae). Both staminal trichomes and the floral nectary appear to contribute to pollinator attraction through the presence of terpenes and flavonoids (in both secretory structures) and nectariferous tissue and nectarostomata (in the nectary). Our results indicate that A. siamensis has reliable and effective pollinators and that insufficient pollination is likely not a primary cause of its rarity.
Mediterranean White Lupin Landraces as a Valuable Genetic Reserve for Breeding
Authors: Zafeiriou Ioannis , Polidoros Alexios N. , Baira Eirini , Kasiotis Konstantinos M. , Machera Kyriaki , Mylona Photini V.
Published: November 2021

Legumes crops are important for sustainable agriculture and global food security. Among them white lupin (Lupinus albus L.), is characterized by exceptional protein content of high nutritional value, competitive to that of soybean (Glycine max) and is well adapted to rainfed agriculture. However, its high seed-quinolizidine alkaloid (QA) content impedes its direct integration to human diet and animal feed. Additionally, its cultivation is not yet intensive, remains confined to local communities and marginal lands in Mediterranean agriculture, while adaptation to local microclimates restrains its cultivation from expanding globally. Hence, modern white lupin breeding aims to exploit genetic resources for the development of “sweet” elite cultivars, resilient to biotic adversities and well adapted for cultivation on a global level. Towards this aim, we evaluated white lupin local landrace germplasm from Greece, since the country is considered a center of white lupin diversity, along with cultivars and breeding lines for comparison. Seed morphological diversity and molecular genetic relationships were investigated. Most of the landraces were distinct from cultivars, indicating the uniqueness of their genetic make-up. The presence of pauper “sweet” marker allele linked to low seed QA content in some varieties was detected in one landrace, two breeding lines, and the cultivars. However, QA content in the examined genotypes did not relate with the marker profile, indicating that the marker’s predictive power is limited in this material. Marker alleles for vernalization unresponsiveness were detected in eight landraces and alleles for anthracnose resistance were found in two landraces, pointing to the presence of promising germplasm for utilization in white lupin breeding. The rich lupin local germplasm genetic diversity and the distinct genotypic composition compared to elite cultivars, highlights its potential use as a source of important agronomic traits to support current breeding efforts and assist its integration to modern sustainable agriculture.
Experimental Research of High-Pressure Methane Pulse Jet and Premixed Ignition Combustion Performance of a Direct Injection Injector
Authors: Guo Shenggang , Lei Yan , Wang Xiaofeng , Qiu Tao , Pang Bin , Shi Lei , An Xuehui
Published: November 2021

Natural gas (NG) direct injection (DI) technology benefits the engine with high efficiency and clean emissions, and the high-pressure gas fuel injection process causes crucial effects on the combustion. This study presents an optical experimental investigation on the high-pressure methane single-hole direct injection and premixed ignition combustion based on a visualization cuboid constant volume bomb (CVB) test rig. The experimental results show that the methane jet process is divided into two stages. The methane gas jet travels at a faster speed during the unstable stage I than that during the stable stage II. The injection pressure causes more influence on both the jet penetration distance and the jet cone area during stage II. The methane jet premixed flame is a stable flame with a nearly spherical shape, and its equivalent radius linearly increases. The methane jet premixed flame area also increases while the flame stretch rate declines. The methane jet premixed flame velocity rises as both the standing time and equivalent ratio increase. The methane jet premixed flame is a partial premixed flame, and the peak of the methane jet premixed flame occurs at greater equivalence ratio ϕ, i.e., ϕ > 2. As the injection pressure rises, the jet premixed flame equivalent radius increases, and the flame velocity linearly increases. The higher the methane injection pressure, the faster the jet premixed flame velocity.