bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth and Characterization of Sputtered InAlN Nanorods on Sapphire Substrates for Acetone Gas Sensing
Authors: Horng Ray-Hua , Cho Po-Hsiang , Chang Jui-Che , Singh Anoop Kumar , Jhang Sheng-Yuan , Liu Po-Liang , Wuu Dong-Sing , Bairagi Samiran , Chen Cheng-Hsu , Järrendahl Kenneth , Hsiao Ching-Lien
Published: December 2023

The demand for highly sensitive and selective gas sensors has been steadily increasing, driven by applications in various fields such as environmental monitoring, healthcare, and industrial safety. In this context, ternary alloy indium aluminum nitride (InAlN) semiconductors have emerged as a promising material for gas sensing due to their unique properties and tunable material characteristics. This work focuses on the fabrication and characterization of InAlN nanorods grown on sapphire substrates using an ultra-high vacuum magnetron sputter epitaxy with precise control over indium composition and explores their potential for acetone-gas-sensing applications. Various characterization techniques, including XRD, SEM, and TEM, demonstrate the structural and morphological insights of InAlN nanorods, making them suitable for gas-sensing applications. To evaluate the gas-sensing performance of the InAlN nanorods, acetone was chosen as a target analyte due to its relevance in medical diagnostics and industrial processes. The results reveal that the InAlN nanorods exhibit a remarkable sensor response of 2.33% at 600 ppm acetone gas concentration at an operating temperature of 350 °C, with a rapid response time of 18 s. Their high sensor response and rapid response make InAlN a viable candidate for use in medical diagnostics, industrial safety, and environmental monitoring.
Mechanical Alloying as a Way to Produce Metastable Single-Phase High-Entropy Alloys beyond the Stability Criteria
Authors: Santiago-Andrades Lucía , Vidal-Crespo Antonio , Blázquez Javier S. , Ipus Jhon J. , Conde Clara F.
Published: December 2023

Various stability criteria developed for high-entropy alloys are applied to compositions produced by mechanical alloying. While they agree with the annealed samples, these criteria fail to describe the as-milled metastable systems, highlighting the ability of mechanical alloying to overcome the limitations imposed by these criteria. The criteria are based on atomic size (Ω ≥ 1.1 and δr ≤ 6.6%) and/or electronegativity misfit, as well as on mixing enthalpy (Λ>0.95 J mol−1K−1 and −5 kJ mol−1<∆Hmix<0), or purely thermodynamic (ϕYe>20; ϕKing>1; Teff<500 K). These criteria are applied to several compositions found in the literature and to two metastable fcc solid solutions produced by mechanical alloying with compositions Al0.75CoXFeNi with X = Cr and Mn. Single-phase microstructures are stable up to above 600 K, leading to more stable multiphase systems after annealing above this temperature. Mössbauer spectrometry shows that, whereas the alloy with Cr is paramagnetic in the as-milled and annealed state, the alloy with Mn changes from paramagnetic to ferromagnetic behavior (Curie temperature ~700 K) after annealing. Thermomagnetic experiments on annealed samples show for both compositions some hysteretic events at high temperatures (850 to 1000 K), probably ascribed to reversible ordering phenomena.
Tissue Distribution, Pharmacokinetics, and Effect of Hematological and Biochemical Parameters of Acute Intravenous Administration of Silver Nanoparticles in Rats
Authors: Salim Elsayed I. , Abdel-Halim Khaled Y. , El-Mahalawy Mostafa E. , Badr Haitham A. , Ahmed Hafiz
Published: December 2023

The widespread biomedical and commercial applications of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have increased their potential for human and environmental exposure and toxicity to human health. The bio-distribution and toxicity of AgNPs in rodents following inhalation, intratracheal instillation, and oral ingestion are well documented; however, little is known about the bio-distribution of intravenously (IV)-administered AgNPs and their organ-specific pathophysiological effects. Here, we investigate the pharmacokinetic pattern and tissue distribution of AgNPs in male rats following IV administration. The animals were humanely sacrificed after 10 min, 1 h, 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, and 168 h of AgNP administration, and the silver (Ag) content was measured from blood samples and various tissues following acid digestion. The AgNPs were readily absorbed and subsequently distributed into most organs predominantly in the colon, small intestine, kidney, and heart after 6 h; however, they were the highest in the spinal cord after 168 h. White blood cells (WBCs) were significantly increased (42–60%) in AgNP-administered animals at all time points except 10 min. Regarding platelets, all AgNP-administered animals showed counts 7.8–39.2% lower, with the lowest count at 168 h post-administration. In the case of lymphocytes (LYMs), the AgNP-treated animals exhibited a count 19.5–41% lower at 10 min and 1 h post-administration; however, the animals at 168 h post-administration showed a count 30.5% more. The mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) counts from the AgNP-treated animals were decreased by 50–62%. The concentrations of aspartate transaminase (AST), urea, and creatinine were increased in the AgNP-treated animals. Taken together, the results suggest that the acute IV administration of AgNPs alters metabolic and hematological parameters in animals and may pose a health risk to humans.
Magnetostrictive and Magnetoactive Effects in Piezoelectric Polymer Composites
Authors: Stolbov Oleg V. , Raikher Yuriy L.
Published: December 2023

A mesoscopic model for a polymer-based magnetoelectric (ME) composite film is developed. The film is assumed to consist of a piezoelectric polymer matrix of the PVDF type filled with CFO-like single-domain nanoparticles. The model is treated numerically and enables one to obtain in detail the intrinsic distributions of mechanical stress, polarization and electric potential and helps to understand the influence of the main configurational parameters, viz., the poling direction and the orientational order of the particle magnetic anisotropy axes on the electric response of the film. As the model is fairly simple—it uses the RVE-like (Representative Volume Element) approach with a single-particle cell—the results obtained are rather of qualitative than quantitative nature. However, the general conclusions seem to be independent of the particularities of the model. Namely, the presented results establish that the customary ME effect in composite films always comprises at least two contributions of different origins, viz., the magnetostrictive and the magnetoactive (magnetorotational) ones. The relative proportion between those contributions is quite movable depending on the striction coefficient of the particles and the stiffness of the polymer matrix. This points out the necessity to explicitly take into account the magnetoactive contribution when modeling the ME response of composite films and when interpreting the measurements on those objects.
Long Follow-Up Times Weaken Observational Diet–Cancer Study Outcomes: Evidence from Studies of Meat and Cancer Risk
Authors: Grant William B.
Published: December 2023

For years, prospective cohort studies of diet and cancer incidence have reported smaller effects than do retrospective case–control (CC) studies. The differences have been attributed to problems with CC studies, including dietary recall bias, poor matching of cases and controls, and confounding. The hypothesis evaluated here is that long follow-up periods between ascertainment of diet and cancer incidence weaken the findings. Prospective studies of cancer incidence with respect to serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration have already shown reduced benefit of higher concentrations for longer follow-up periods. Evaluating that hypothesis for dietary factors involved searching the journal literature for meta-analyses of red meat and processed meat and cancer incidence. I used findings from observational studies for bladder, breast, colorectal, and gastric cancers. To evaluate the effect of duration of follow-up time, I used two approaches. First, I plotted the relative risks for CC studies for gastric cancer with respect to consumption of 100 g/day of red meat and for bladder cancer for 50 g/day of processed meat against the interval between the dietary data and cancer incidence. Second, I compared nested CC studies of meat and cancer incidence for five breast cancer studies and one colorectal cancer study. Both approaches yielded an inverse correlation between interval or follow-up time and relative risk. My findings strongly suggest that diet near time of cancer diagnosis is more important than for longer intervals, that results from meta-analyses should be revised when possible with appropriate adjustments for duration of follow-up, and that dietary guidelines be revised accordingly.
The Effect of Caffeine Supplementation on Female Volleyball Players’ Performance and Wellness during a Regular Training Week
Authors: Siquier-Coll Jesús , Delgado-García Gabriel , Soto-Méndez Fulgencio , Liñán-González Antonio , García Raquel , González-Fernández Francisco
Published: December 2023

Background: caffeine is an ergogenic aid that still needs to be investigated in women’s sports performance. Methods: Eight semi-professional women’s volleyball players (height = 1.63 ± 0.08 m; weight = 66.67 ± 4.74 kg) voluntarily participated in this study. A randomized crossover design was implemented where players underwent caffeine and placebo conditions. In the caffeine condition, participants consumed 5 mg/kg of caffeine based on their body weight before acute training. The evaluations were performed over two weeks of training. In both conditions, the countermovement jump, repeated jumps for 15 s, and handgrip tests were performed. The change of direction was assessed using the 505 test. Well-being was also assessed with a wellness questionnaire. A repeated measures ANOVA and correlation analysis were performed. Results: The repeated measures ANOVA revealed a main effect of supplementation (F (1.7) = 8.41, p = 0.02, η2 = 0.54) across the training week on physical performance. Additionally, there was a positive effect on perceived fatigue (F (1.7) = 7.29, p = 0.03, η2 = 0.51). Conclusions: Caffeine improved performance and fatigue parameters over one week of training. Further research is needed on women, focusing on physical performance and wellbeing, especially during intense periods.
Deoxycholic Acid, a Secondary Bile Acid, Increases Cardiac Output and Blood Pressure in Rats
Authors: Nowiński Artur , Chabowski Dawid , Giebułtowicz Joanna , Aleksandrowicz Marta , Ufnal Marcin
Published: December 2023

Background: Deoxycholic acid (DCA) is a secondary bile acid produced by gut bacteria. Elevated serum concentrations of DCA are observed in cardiovascular disease (CVD). We hypothesized that DCA might influence hemodynamic parameters in rats. Methods: The concentration of DCA in systemic blood was measured with liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Arterial blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) and echocardiographic parameters were evaluated in anesthetized, male, 3–4-month-old Sprague–Dawley rats administered intravenously (IV) or intracerebroventricularly (ICV) with investigated compounds. Mesenteric artery (MA) reactivity was tested ex vivo. Results: The baseline plasma concentration of DCA was 0.24 ± 0.03 mg/L. The oral antibiotic treatment produced a large decrease in the concentration. Administered IV, the compound increased BP and HR in a dose-dependent manner. DCA also increased heart contractility and cardiac output. None of the tested compounds—prazosin (an alpha-blocker), propranolol (beta-adrenolytic), atropine (muscarinic receptor antagonist), glibenclamide (K-ATP inhibitor) or DY 268 (FXR antagonist), glycyrrhetinic acid (11HSD2 inhibitor)—significantly diminished the DCA-induced pressor effect. ICV infusion did not exert significant HR or BP changes. DCA relaxed MAs. Systemic vascular resistance did not change significantly. Conclusions: DCA elevates BP primarily by augmenting cardiac output. As a metabolite derived from gut bacteria, DCA potentially serves as a mediator in the interaction between the gut microbiota and the host’s circulatory system.
Portal Hypertension in Malnutrition and Sarcopenia in Decompensated Cirrhosis—Pathogenesis, Implications and Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Terbah Ryma , Testro Adam , Gow Paul , Majumdar Avik , Sinclair Marie
Published: December 2023

Malnutrition and sarcopenia are highly prevalent in patients with decompensated cirrhosis and are associated with poorer clinical outcomes. Their pathophysiology is complex and multifactorial, with protein-calorie malnutrition, systemic inflammation, reduced glycogen stores and hormonal imbalances all well reported. The direct contribution of portal hypertension to these driving factors is however not widely documented in the literature. This review details the specific mechanisms by which portal hypertension directly contributes to the development of malnutrition and sarcopenia in cirrhosis. We summarise the existing literature describing treatment strategies that specifically aim to reduce portal pressures and their impact on nutritional and muscle outcomes, which is particularly relevant to those with end-stage disease awaiting liver transplantation.
Associations of Serum Vitamin D Concentration with Cardiovascular Risk Factors and the Healthy Lifestyle Score
Authors: Lee Yerin , Kim Minju , Baik Inkyung
Published: December 2023

Vitamin D status is reportedly associated with risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD), although conflicting data have been generated. The healthy lifestyle score (HLS) was formulated as a primary approach toward preventing CVD; however, data on the association between the HLS and vitamin D status remain insufficient. This study aimed to investigate the associations of CVD risk factors and the HLS with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration in adults who participated in a national survey. HLS components, including body mass index, smoking status, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and dietary pattern, as well as other risk factors, including diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), and dyslipidemia (DL), were fitted in multiple linear regression models to determine their association with vitamin D status. DM, HTN, and DL were inversely associated whereas a balanced dietary pattern, alcohol consumption, and physical activity were positively associated with serum vitamin D concentration (p < 0.01). Furthermore, a strong association was observed between the total HLS and serum vitamin D concentration (p for trend <0.01); the regression coefficient estimate (95% confidence interval) for the highest score was 1.41 (0.65, 2.17) (p < 0.01) compared with that for the lowest. These findings suggest that CVD risk factors and the HLS may reflect vitamin D status.
Effect of Fish Oil Parenteral Emulsion Supplementation on Inflammatory Parameters after Esophagectomy
Authors: Suárez-Lledó Grande Ana , Llop Talaveron Josep M. , Leiva Badosa Elisabet , Farran Teixido Leandre , Miró Martín Mónica , Bas Minguet Jordi , Navarro Velázquez Sergio , Creus Costas Gloria , Virgili Casas Nuria , Fernández Álvarez Mónica , Badía Tahull María B.
Published: December 2023

(Background) Esophagectomy (EPG) presents high morbidity and mortality. Omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3FA) are a pharmaconutrient with benefits for postoperative morbidity. Studies of ω-3FA administered parenterally after esophagectomy are scarce. This study proposes to investigate the effect of combining fish oil lipid emulsions (LE) administered parenterally with enteral nutrition support. (Methods) Randomization was 1:1:1 in three groups: Group A received a LE mixture of 0.4 g/kg/day of fish oil and 0.4 g/kg/day of LCT/MCT 50:50, Group B received 0.8 g/kg/day of fish oil LE, and Group C received 0.8 g/kg/day of LCT/MCT 50:50. Variables were measured at recruitment time and day +1, +3, and +5. Inflammatory variables studied were Interlukin-6, C-reactive protein (CRP), tumoral necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-10, IL-8 and CD25s. Safety, nutritional parameters and complications were analyzed. (Results) Administration of ω-3LE in the immediate postoperative period did not modulate the earlier inflammatory response. Statistically significant differences were found in IL-6 and CRP overall temporal evolution but were not found when studying the type of LE administered or in patients needing critical care. Administration of ω-3 resulted in safe and improved hypertriglyceridemia, depending on the dose. (Conclusions) ω-3FA has no impact on the early inflammatory postoperative response assessed for a short period but was safe. More studies for longer periods are needed.
A New Approach for Preparing Stable High-Concentration Peptide Nanoparticle Formulations
Authors: Hu Chloe , Zang Nanzhi , Tam Yu Tong , Dizon Desmond , Lee Kaylee , Pang Jodie , Torres Elizabeth , Cui Yusi , Yen Chun-Wan , Leung Dennis H.
Published: December 2023

The subcutaneous administration of therapeutic peptides would provide significant benefits to patients. However, subcutaneous injections are limited in dosing volume, potentially resulting in high peptide concentrations that can incur significant challenges with solubility limitations, high viscosity, and stability liabilities. Herein, we report on the discovery that low-shear resonant acoustic mixing can be used as a general method to prepare stable nanoparticles of a number of peptides of diverse molecular weights and structures in water without the need for extensive amounts of organic solvents or lipid excipients. This approach avoids the stability issues observed with typical high-shear, high-intensity milling methods. The resultant peptide nanosuspensions exhibit low viscosity even at high concentrations of >100 mg/mL while remaining chemically and physically stable. An example nanosuspension of cyclosporine nanoparticles was dosed in rats via a subcutaneous injection and exhibited sustained release behavior. This suggests that peptide nanosuspension formulations can be one approach to overcome the challenges with high-concentration peptide formulations.
Ketamine, an Old–New Drug: Uses and Abuses
Authors: Savić Vujović Katarina , Jotić Ana , Medić Branislava , Srebro Dragana , Vujović Aleksandar , Žujović Janko , Opanković Ana , Vučković Sonja
Published: December 2023

Ketamine as an old–new drug has a variety of clinical implications. In the last 30 years, ketamine has become popular for acute use in humans. Ketamine in standard doses is principally utilized for the induction and maintenance of surgical procedures. Besides its use in anesthesia and analgesia, recent studies have shown that ketamine has found a place in the treatment of asthma, epilepsy, depression, bipolar affective disorders, alcohol and heroin addiction. Ketamine primarily functions as a noncompetitive antagonist targeting the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, but its mechanism of action is complex. It is generally regarded as safe, with low doses and short-term use typically not leading to significant adverse effects. Also, ketamine is known as a powerful psychostimulant. During the past decade, ketamine has been one of the commonly abused drugs.
Meltdose Tacrolimus Population Pharmacokinetics and Limited Sampling Strategy Evaluation in Elderly Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Kamp Jasper , Zwart Tom C. , Meziyerh Soufian , van der Boog Paul J. M. , Nijgh Esther E. , van Duin Koen , de Vries Aiko P. J. , Moes Dirk Jan A. R.
Published: December 2023

Background: Meltdose tacrolimus (Envarsus®) has been marketed as a formulation achieving a more consistent tacrolimus exposure. Due to the narrow therapeutic window of tacrolimus, dose individualization is essential. Relaxation of the upper age limits for kidney transplantations has resulted in larger numbers of elderly patients receiving tacrolimus. However, due to the physiological changes caused by aging, the tacrolimus pharmacokinetics (PK) might be altered. The primary aim was to develop a population PK model in elderly kidney transplant recipients. Secondary aims were the development and evaluation of a limited sampling strategy (LSS) for AUC estimation. Methods: A total of 34 kidney transplant recipients aged ≥65 years, starting on meltdose tacrolimus directly after transplantation, were included. An eight-point whole blood AUC0–24h and an abbreviated dried blood spot (DBS) AUC0–24h were obtained. The PK data were analyzed using nonlinear mixed effect modeling methods. Results: The PK data were best described using a two-compartment model, including three transit compartments and a mixture model for oral absorption. The best three-sample LSS was T = 0, 2, 6 h. The best four-sample LSSs were T = 0, 2, 6, 8 h and T = 0, 1, 6, 8 h. Conclusions: The developed population PK model adequately described the tacrolimus PK data in a population of elderly kidney transplant recipients. In addition, the developed population PK model and LSS showed an adequate estimation of tacrolimus exposure, and may therefore be used to aid in tacrolimus dose individualization.
An Integral-Equation-Based Variance Reduction Method for Accelerated Monte Carlo Simulations
Authors: Hevisov David , Reitzle Dominik , Liemert André , Kienle Alwin
Published: December 2023

In this work, we introduce a novel variance reduction approach utilising the integral formulation of the radiative transfer equation to calculate the radiance in a planar symmetric slab geometry. Due to its integral nature, our method offers a fundamental advantage over well-established variance reduction methods such as the local estimate technique. As opposed to the local estimate procedure, photons add to the overall radiance not only at specific points of interaction but also throughout each consecutive path element; hence, our variance reduction approach can be thought of as an integral local estimate method. This facilitates a substantial enhancement in statistical efficiency, especially in scenarios where only a small number of scattering events or a high attenuation along the detection paths is to be anticipated. To evaluate the overall performance of the integral approach, we incorporated it into a self-developed GPU-accelerated Monte Carlo software, together with a conventional local estimate implementation adapted to slab geometry for a comprehensive comparison.
Two Years of PhysChem: Current Status and Future Developments
Authors: Manzhos Sergei , Sa Jacinto , Barone Vincenzo
Published: December 2023

Two years ago, PhysChem was launched as a new physical chemistry journal publishing original research articles, reviews and perspectives, and communications focusing on physics-based description of chemical phenomena and their applications [...]
In Vivo Phosphorylation of the Cytosolic Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Isozyme G6PD6 in Phosphate-Resupplied Arabidopsis thaliana Suspension Cells and Seedlings
Authors: Smith Milena , Benidickson Kirsten , Plaxton William
Published: December 2023

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) catalyzes the first committed step of the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway (OPPP). Our recent phosphoproteomics study revealed that the cytosolic G6PD6 isozyme became hyperphosphorylated at Ser12, Thr13 and Ser18, 48 h following phosphate (Pi) resupply to Pi-starved (–Pi) Arabidopsis thaliana cell cultures. The aim of the present study was to assess whether G6PD6 phosphorylation also occurs in shoots or roots following Pi resupply to –Pi Arabidopsis seedlings, and to investigate its relationship with G6PD activity. Interrogation of phosphoproteomic databases indicated that N-terminal, multi-site phosphorylation of G6PD6 and its orthologs is quite prevalent. However, the functions of these phosphorylation events remain unknown. Immunoblotting with an anti-(pSer18 phosphosite-specific G6PD6) antibody confirmed that G6PD6 from Pi-resupplied, but not –Pi, Arabidopsis cell cultures or seedlings (i.e., roots) was phosphorylated at Ser18; this correlated with a significant increase in extractable G6PD activity, and biomass accumulation. Peptide kinase assays of Pi-resupplied cell culture extracts indicated that G6PD6 phosphorylation at Ser18 is catalyzed by a Ca2+-dependent protein kinase (CDPK), which correlates with the ‘CDPK-like’ targeting motif that flanks Ser18. Our results support the hypothesis that N-terminal phosphorylation activates G6PD6 to enhance OPPP flux and thus the production of reducing power (i.e., NADPH) and C-skeletons needed to establish the rapid resumption of growth that ensues Pi-resupply to –Pi Arabidopsis.
The Influence of the Explant’s Type on the Performance of Synthetic Seeds of Blackberry (Rubus spp.)
Authors: Regni Luca , Micheli Maurizio , Facchin Simona Lucia , Del Pino Alberto Marco , Silvestri Cristian , Proietti Primo
Published: December 2023

In vitro propagation, also known as micropropagation, has become the most widely employed method for blackberry propagation, as it overcomes the limitations of the traditional asexual propagation methods (mainly layering and cutting). In this context, synthetic seed technology represents a strategy to enhance the productivity of in vitro propagation and facilitates the exchange of plant materials between laboratories, contributing to germplasm conservation. This study aimed to identify the most suitable vegetative propagule for the encapsulation of blackberry. To this end, uninodal microcuttings (nodes) and the base of clumps were used to produce synthetic seeds for the cultivars Thornfree and Chester. Forty-five days after sowing, viability (percentage of green propagules without browning or necrosis), regeneration (percentage of propagules that sprouted and rooted simultaneously), number of shoots produced, shoot length, number of roots produced, root length, and the fresh and dry weights of the plantlets were measured. The results demonstrated that both considered propagules allowed us to obtain satisfactory regeneration rates. However, plantlets originating from the encapsulated clump’s base had more shoots and roots, resulting in greater fresh and dry weights than the plantlets derived from encapsulated nodes. Therefore, for achieving more robust plantlets and enhancing overall procedural efficiency, we recommend using the base of clumps as a propagule for blackberry encapsulation.
Unlocking Therapeutic Potential: Comprehensive Extraction, Profiling, and Pharmacological Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. for Dermatological Applications
Authors: Myo Hla , Liana Desy , Phanumartwiwath Anuchit
Published: December 2023

Herbal medicine has been studied as an alternate approach to modern medicine as it is more cost-effective and accessible via natural sources. Eclipta alba (E. alba, L.) Hassk. is a weed plant abundantly distributed throughout different regions of the world and contains abundant bioactive compounds used for various skin conditions. In this review, we aimed to gather information from the literature about the extraction, separation, and identification of these bioactive compounds and their potential in skin diseases. Relevant studies published before August 2023 were identified and selected from electronic databases, including Scopus, SciFinder, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Wiley Library, using the following keywords: Eclipta alba, Eclipta prostrata, phytochemicals, extraction, separation, isolation, identification, characterization, pharmacological activity, and skin conditions. Up-to-date extraction, separation, and identification methods of bioactive compounds from E. alba and their skin-related pharmacological activities are discussed in this review. As there are limitations regarding extraction, separation, and identification methods, and in-depth mechanistic and human studies of the skin-related pharmacological activities of bioactive compounds, these gaps are areas for future research to expand our understanding and broaden the potential applications of this medicinal weed plant, including the development of cosmeceutical and skincare products, anti-inflammatory agents, and formulations for dermatological treatments.
Chemical Profile and Health-Promoting Activities of Crataegus laciniata (Rosaceae) Flowers
Authors: Mirabile Salvatore , D’Angelo Valeria , Germanò Maria Paola , Pouramin Arabi Shiva , Parisi Valentina , Raimondo Francesco Maria , Rosa Emanuele
Published: December 2023

In the present study, we focused our attention on Crataegus laciniata Ucria (Rosaceae), which is wild growing in western Sicily (Italy). The chemical profile of the C. laciniata flower’s (CLF) ethanolic (70%) extract showed the presence of both C-flavonoid and O-flavonoid derivatives. Beyond the main metabolites, like hyperoside and vitexin, there are several luteolin derivates, in addition to catechin and epicatechin dimers or trimers. Regarding the antioxidant activities, CLF showed a strong ability to scavenge DPPH and ABTS radicals and a good Fe3+-reducing antioxidant power. The investigation into the key enzymes in diabetes showed strong inhibition on α-amylase and α-glucosidase, whereas the skin-whitening properties are linked to inhibitory effects on tyrosinase. Moreover, we employed Danio rerio (zebrafish) for toxicity assessment, as it represents an ideal in vivo model due to its high correlation with humans in response to pharmaceutical and cosmetic testing. Zebrafish embryos exposed to CLF (25–100 µg/mL) showed marked depigmentation compared to phenylthiourea (PTU), in addition to a high survival percentage and the absence of malformations. In conclusion, this experimental study outlines that C. laciniata flowers could be a potential source of bioactive compounds for application in the pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical industries.
Host Suitability of Lettuce and Bean Germplasm for Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica Isolates from Spain
Authors: Giné Ariadna , Sanz-Prieto Anna , Gomes Luiz Antonio Augusto , Expósito Alejandro , Escudero Nuria , Sorribas Francisco Javier
Published: December 2023

Meloidogyne spp. are an important threat to horticulture and cause substantial yield losses. Plant resistance is an alternative control method for chemical nematicides. This study highlights the host suitability of the lettuces cultivars Grand Rapids and Salinas 88 and the beans cultivars Aporé, Cornell 49242, Macarrão Atibaia and Ouro Negro to four Meloidogyne incognita and seven M. javanica isolates from Spain in a pot experiment. Moreover, the response of these cultivars to increasing M. incognita densities (Pi) was assessed in a plastic greenhouse. The lettuce cultivar Regina 71 and the bean cultivar Bolinha were included as susceptible standards for comparison. It was found that Grand Rapids and Salinas 88 lettuces were resistant to the most nematode isolates in the pot experiment but were classified as slightly and moderately resistant, respectively, in the plastic greenhouse at increasing Pi. Regarding the beans, Aporé was resistant to the majority of the Meloidogyne isolates whereas Macarrão Atibaia and Ouro Negro were slightly resistant and Cornell 49242 was susceptible in the pot experiment. In the plastic greenhouse, Aporé was the only cultivar able to effectively suppress the nematode reproduction irrespective of Pi, while Ouro Negro became less resistant as Pi increased. These results play an important role in enhancing the effective and ecofriendly Meloidogyne management strategies.
Wild Edible Fruits as a Source of Food and Medicine: A Study among Tribal Communities of Southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Authors: Ul Abidin Sheikh Zain , Khan Raees , Ahmad Mushtaq , Cuerrier Alain , Zafar Muhammad , Ullah Asad , Khan Jabbar , Saeed Asma , Al-Qahtani Wahidah H. , Kazi Mohsin
Published: December 2023

Botanical surveys in all parts of Pakistan are mainly focused on ethnomedicinal uses of plants, and very little attention has been paid to documenting edible wild fruit species (EWFs). Multiple methodologies and tools were used for data collection. In a recent survey 74 EWF species belonging to 29 families were documented, including their medicinal uses for the treatment of various diseases. The most cited (23%) preparation method was raw, fresh parts. The UV and RFC of EWF species ranged from 0.08 to 0.4 and from 0.02 to 0.18, respectively. In terms of specific disease treatments and their consensus, the ICF ranged from 0 to 0.38. Sexual, gastrointestinal, and respiratory disorders had the highest use reports, and 11 species of plants had the highest FL of 100%. On the basis of uses reported by the inhabitants of seven districts of Southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, the CSI ranged from the lowest 1.3 to the highest 41. It is concluded that the traditional uses of EWF species depend mainly on socio-economic factors rather than climatic conditions or the number of species. However, there is a gradual loss of traditional knowledge among the younger generations. The present survey is the first baseline study about the socio-economic dimension of local communities regarding the use of EWF species for food as well as medicine.
Effect of Resin Bleed Out on Compaction Behavior of the Fiber Tow Gap Region during Automated Fiber Placement Manufacturing
Authors: Jamora Von Clyde , Rauch Virginia , Kravchenko Sergii G. , Kravchenko Oleksandr G.
Published: December 2023

Automated fiber placement is a state-of-the-art manufacturing method which allows for precise control over layup design. However, AFP results in irregular morphology due to fiber tow deposition induced features such as tow gaps and overlaps. Factors such as the squeeze flow and resin bleed out, combined with large non-linear deformation, lead to morphological variability. To understand these complex interacting phenomena, a coupled multiphysics finite element framework was developed to simulate the compaction behavior around fiber tow gap regions, which consists of coupled chemo-rheological and flow-compaction analysis. The compaction analysis incorporated a visco-hyperelastic constitutive model with anisotropic tensorial prepreg viscosity, which depends on the resin degree of cure and local fiber orientation and volume fraction. The proposed methodology was validated using the compaction of unidirectional tows and layup with a fiber tow gap. The proposed approach considered the effect of resin bleed out into the gap region, leading to the formation of a resin-rich pocket with a complex non-uniform morphology.
Shaping in the Third Direction: Self-Assembly of Convex Colloidal Photonic Crystals on an Optical Fiber Tip by Hanging Drop Method
Authors: Sandu Ion , Antohe Iulia , Fleaca Claudiu Teodor , Dumitrache Florian , Urzica Iuliana , Brajnicov Simona , Iagaru Romulus , Sava Bogdan Alexandru , Dumitru Marius
Published: December 2023

High-quality convex colloidal photonic crystals can be grown on the tip of an optical fiber by self-assembly using the hanging drop method. They are convex-shaped, produce the diffraction of reflecting light with high efficiency (blazing colors), and have a high curvature. The convex colloidal crystals are easily detachable and, as free-standing objects, they are mechanically robust, allowing their manipulation and use as convex reflective diffraction devices in imaging spectrometers. Currently, the same characteristics are obtained by using gratings-based structures. The optical fiber/colloidal crystal interface is disordered; thus, no light diffraction can be registered. The ordering at this interface was highly increased by forming a polystyrene spacer on the optical fiber tip, which served as a self-assembly substrate for silica colloid, as a mechanical bond between the fiber and the crystal, and as a filler reservoir for an inverse-opal synthesis. The silica opal-like grown on the optical fiber tip can be transformed into a high-quality polystyrene (blazing colors) inverse-opal by using the polystyrene spacer as a filler. We found that the colloidal crystal axisymmetric self-assembles onto the optical fiber tip only if a maximum volume of the colloid drop is settled on a flat end of the polystyrene spacer.
Effect of Dilution on the Crystallization Kinetics of Neodymium-Based Rare Earth Polybutadiene Rubber
Authors: Zhang Xiaohu , Li Xiaofan , Zhu Wenbin , Xie Xinzheng , Ji Huan , Bi Jifu
Published: December 2023

The crystallization behavior of neodymium-based rare earth polybutadiene rubber (Nd-BR) is studied in the presence of small-molecule treated distillate aromatic extract (TDAE) and high-molecular-weight polybutadiene–isoprene copolymer rubber (BIR). Pronounced inhibitory effects on the crystallization of Nd-BR are exhibited by both materials, as evidenced by reductions in the crystallization temperature (Tc), melting point (Tm), and corresponding enthalpy change. It is found that, at equal concentrations, a greater influence on the crystallization rate is exerted by TDAE oils, whereas nucleation inhibition is more potently affected by BIR. Incomplete crystallization during cooling is exhibited by Nd-BR when the TDAE oil concentration reaches 40 parts per hundreds of rubber (PHR) (31 wt.%), or BIR achieves a 60 wt.% concentration; subsequently, a noticeable cold crystallization phenomenon is observed upon heating. Insights into the isothermal crystallization kinetics are offered by the data, which reveal that the Avrami index n value for Nd-BR predominantly ranges between 2.5 and 3.0. A decrease in the n value is induced by a small amount of TDAE oil, while a noticeable decline in the n value is observed only when the BIR concentration is 60 wt.%. A correlation between the crystallization activation energy, the concentration of TDAE oil and BIR, and the crystallization temperature is established; a negative activation energy is recorded, and a decrease in the crystallization rate is noted when both concentrations are low and the crystallization temperature exceeds −50 °C. In contrast, positive activation energy and an increase in the crystallization rate are observed when the BIR concentration reaches 60%, and the crystallization temperature resides between −50 °C and −70 °C.
The Evolution of the Intrinsic Flexural Strength of Jute Strands after a Progressive Delignification Process and Their Contribution to the Flexural Strength of PLA-Based Biocomposites
Authors: Alonso-Montemayor Francisco J. , Espinach Francesc X. , Tarrés Quim , Alcalà Manel , Delgado-Aguilar Marc , Mutjé Pere
Published: December 2023

Biocomposites from poly-(lactic acid) (PLA) and jute strands were prepared, and their flexural strength was analyzed. Jute strands were submitted to a progressive delignification process and the resulting morphology, composition, and crystallinity index were evaluated. Then, PLA biocomposites comprising 30 wt% of jute strands were produced and characterized under flexural conditions. The delignification processes decreased the lignin content and progressively increased the cellulose content. All this resulted in an enhancement of the composite flexural strength. A modified rule of mixtures, and the relation between tensile and flexural properties were used to determine the intrinsic flexural strength (of the jute strands) and their correlation with their physic-chemical characteristics. Equations correlating the intrinsic flexural strength with the crystallinity index, the cellulose content, and the microfibril angle were proposed. These equations show the impact of these properties over the intrinsic properties of the fibers and can help researchers to select appropriate fibers to obtain accurate properties for the composites. Jute strands show their value as reinforcement by increasing the flexural strength of the matrix by 70% and being less expensive and more environmentally friendly than mineral reinforcements. Together with the profitability and the environmental advantages, the mechanical results suggest that these PLA biocomposites are suitable for specific products of different market sectors.
Preparation of Preformed Submicron Crosslinked Polymer Coils for Conformance Control in Low-Permeability Reservoirs
Authors: Liu Jianwei , Peng Bo
Published: December 2023

With the increasing development of low-permeability reservoirs, the significance of conformance control treatment has risen considerably. To address the conflict between injectability and plugging performance, as well as to enhance the deep migration capacity of conformance control agents, preformed submicron crosslinked polymer coils (SCPCs) have been manufactured using aqueous solution dispersion polymerization. Fourier transform infrared and scanning electron microscopy were employed to examine the chemical structure and micromorphology, while particle size distribution, zeta potential, rheological, and filtration properties were analyzed. The effectiveness of conformance control was confirmed through the parallel core displacement. The effective particle size of SCPCs was at a submicron level (500~800 nm). SCPCs exhibit a transitional threshold concentration between gel and sol states (0.25 wt%~0.5 wt%). SCPCs can efficiently block the 1.2 μm microporous filter membrane. The filtration time is up to 67.8 min. SCPCs can improve the water absorption rate of lower permeability cores from 21.21% to 57.89% with a permeability difference of 5. Therefore, SCPCs have good injectability, plugging performance, and deep migration capacity and can be used for conformance control in low-permeability reservoirs.
Simultaneous Production of Cellulose Nitrates and Bacterial Cellulose from Lignocellulose of Energy Crop
Authors: Kashcheyeva Ekaterina I. , Korchagina Anna A. , Gismatulina Yulia A. , Gladysheva Evgenia K. , Budaeva Vera V. , Sakovich Gennady V.
Published: December 2023

This study is focused on exploring the feasibility of simultaneously producing the two products, cellulose nitrates (CNs) and bacterial cellulose (BC), from Miscanthus × giganteus. The starting cellulose for them was isolated by successive treatments of the feedstock with HNO3 and NaOH solutions. The cellulose was subjected to enzymatic hydrolysis for 2, 8, and 24 h. The cellulose samples after the hydrolysis were distinct in structure from the starting sample (degree of polymerization (DP) 1770, degree of crystallinity (DC) 64%) and between each other (DP 1510–1760, DC 72–75%). The nitration showed that these samples and the starting cellulose could successfully be nitrated to furnish acetone-soluble CNs. Extending the hydrolysis time from 2 h to 24 h led to an enhanced yield of CNs from 116 to 131%, with the nitrogen content and the viscosity of the CN samples increasing from 11.35 to 11.83% and from 94 to 119 mPa·s, respectively. The SEM analysis demonstrated that CNs retained the fiber shape. The IR spectroscopy confirmed that the synthesized material was specifically CNs, as evidenced by the characteristic frequencies of 1657–1659, 1277, 832–833, 747, and 688–690 cm−1. Nutrient media derived from the hydrolyzates obtained in 8 h and 24 h were of good quality for the synthesis of BC, with yields of 11.1% and 9.6%, respectively. The BC samples had a reticulate structure made of interlaced microfibrils with 65 and 81 nm widths and DPs of 2100 and 2300, respectively. It is for the first time that such an approach for the simultaneous production of CNs and BC has been employed.
Coal Molecular Structure Evolution for Methane Adsorption Molecular Mechanism
Authors: Li Wu
Published: December 2023

Coal is complex as it includes organic matter (macerals) and inorganic matter (minerals) [...]
Development of Chitosan-Based Active Films with Medicinal Plant Extracts for Potential Food Packaging Applications
Authors: Nxumalo Kwanele Andy , Fawole Olaniyi Amos , Aremu Adeyemi Oladapo
Published: December 2023

In this study, 2% chitosan (Ch) (w/v) was enriched with 1% Lippia javanica, Syzygium cordatum, and Ximenia caffra extract to form Ch+L, Ch+S, and Ch+X, respectively. The control film was the chitosan (Ch) film without plant extracts. The composite films were assessed for their antifungal ability using the agar diffusion method against economically relevant plant pathogens, Botrytis cinerea, and Penicillium expansum. These chitosan films were further evaluated using an X-ray diffractometer and scanning electron microscope, and their physical and mechanical properties were also assessed. The medicinal plants in the chitosan matrix had the highest inhibition zone (10 mm) against P. expansum, while the chitosan-only films had the lowest inhibition zone (3.3 mm). Notably, Ch+S and Ch+X films had the highest inhibition zone (10 mm) against B. cinerea, while chitosan-only films did not avert the spread of B. cinerea. Ch+L films had the highest film thickness (0.189 mm), density (1.62 g·cm3), swelling degree (48.6%), and water solubility (32.8%). Films with other plant extracts had moderate properties, while chitosan without plant extract had the least film thickness (0.128 mm), density (1.08 g·cm3), swelling degree (31.9%), and water solubility (18.9%). X-ray diffraction images revealed that the chitosan films fused with plant extracts altered the extent of crystallinity of the films because they ranged between 14,710.43 for chitosan-only films and 26,288.31 a.u. for Ch+S films. Enriching the chitosan-based films with the investigated medicinal plant extracts resulted in different favorable properties and could make good candidates for food preservation and packaging if optimized.
Novel Betulin-1,2,4-Triazole Derivatives Promote In Vitro Dose-Dependent Anticancer Cytotoxicity
Authors: Prodea Alexandra , Milan Andreea , Mioc Marius , Mioc Alexandra , Oprean Camelia , Racoviceanu Roxana , Negrea-Ghiulai Roxana , Mardale Gabriel , Avram Ștefana , Balan-Porcărașu Mihaela , Rotunjanu Slavița , Trandafirescu Cristina , Şoica Irina , Șoica Codruța
Published: December 2023

Betulin is a birch bark-derived lupane-type pentacyclic triterpene with a wide spectrum of biological activities. Given their enhanced antiproliferative potential and enhanced pharmacological profile, betulin derivatives are continuously investigated in scientific studies. The objective of the current study was to in vitro assess the antiproliferative properties of novel synthesized 1,2,4-triazole derivatives of diacetyl betulin. The compounds were investigated using three cancer cell lines: A375 (melanoma), MCF-7 (breast cancer), HT-29 (colorectal cancer), and HaCaT (human keratinocytes). Bet-TZ1 had the lowest recorded IC50 values (ranging from 22.41 to 46.92 μM after 48 h of exposure) than its precursor and other tested compounds in every scenario, with the highest cytotoxicity against the A375 cell line. Bet-TZ3 demonstrated comparable cytotoxicity to the previously mentioned compound, with an IC50 of 34.34 μM against A375. Both compounds caused apoptosis in tested cells, by inducing specific nuclear morphological changes and by increasing the expression of caspase 9, indicating significant cytotoxicity, which was consistent with the literature and viability evaluation. Bet-TZ1 and Bet-TZ3 inhibit cancer cell migration, with the former having a stronger effect than the latter. The HET−CAM test indicated that all compounds have no irritative potential, suggesting that they can be used locally.