bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Low Dose of Ketamine and Social Isolation: A Possible Model of Induced Chronic Schizophrenia-Like Symptoms in Male Albino Rats
Authors: Estaphan Suzanne , Curpăn Alexandrina-Stefania , Khalifa Dalia , Rashed Laila , Ciobica Andrei , Cantemir Adrian , Ciobica Alin , Trus Constantin , Ali Mahmoud , ShamsEldeen Asmaa
Published: July 2021

While animal models for schizophrenia, ranging from pharmacological models to lesions and genetic models, are available, they usually mimic only the positive symptoms of this disorder. Identifying a feasible model of chronic schizophrenia would be valuable for studying the possible underlying mechanism and to investigate emerging treatments. Our hypothesis starts from the observation that combining ketamine with isolation could result in long-lasting neuro-psychological deficits and schizophrenia-like features; thus, it could probably be used as the first model of chronic schizophrenia that emphasizes the characteristic of having a multifactorial etiology. By the means of this study, we investigated the effects of ketamine administration combined with isolation in inducing schizophrenia-like symptoms in male albino rats and the brain reactive oxygen species levels. Our results showed that the number of lines crossings in the open field test, the number of open arm entries in the elevated plus maze, and the spontaneous alternations percentage in the Y-maze were significantly lower in the ketamine + isolation group compared to both the control and ketamine + social housing group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the ketamine + isolation intervention significantly increased the MDA levels and decreased the GPx levels both in the hippocampus and the cortex of the rats. In addition, our premise of creating a model capable of exhibiting both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia was also based on adding the aripiprazole treatment to a group of rats. Therefore, we compared the ketamine + social isolation group with the ketamine + social isolation + aripiprazole group in order to attempt to discover if the antipsychotic drug would significantly decrease the potential positive schizophrenia-like symptoms induced by social isolation and ketamine. Given that we obtained significant results, we cautiously presume that this might be an important step in developing our animal model capable of illustrating both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. This study could be a first step towards the creation of a complex animal model capable of exhibiting the multifactorial origin and manifestation of schizophrenia.
Solvent-Free Synthesis of SAPO-34 Zeolite with Tunable SiO2/Al2O3 Ratios for Efficient Catalytic Cracking of 1-Butene
Authors: Xiao Xia , Xu Zhongliang , Wang Peng , Liu Xinfei , Fan Xiaoqiang , Kong Lian , Xie Zean , Zhao Zhen
Published: July 2021

Solvent-free synthesis methodology is a promising technique for the green and sustainable preparation of zeolites materials. In this work, a solvent-free route was developed to synthesize SAPO-34 zeolite. The characterization results indicated that the crystal size, texture properties, acidity and Si coordination environment of the resulting SAPO-34 were tuned by adjusting the SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio in the starting mixture. Moreover, the acidity of SAPO-34 zeolite was found to depend on the Si coordination environment, which was consistent with that of SAPO-34 zeolite synthesized by the hydrothermal method. At an SiO2/Al2O3 ratio of 0.6, the SP-0.6 sample exhibited the highest conversion of 1-butene (82.8%) and a satisfactory yield of light olefins (51.6%) in the catalytic cracking of 1-butene, which was attributed to the synergistic effect of the large SBET (425 m2/g) and the abundant acid sites (1.82 mmol/g). This work provides a new opportunity for the design of efficient zeolite catalysts for industrially important reactions.
In Situ Electrochemical Characterization of a Microbial Fuel Cell Biocathode Running on Wastewater
Authors: Ramanaiah Sudarsu , Cordas Cristina , Matias Sara , Fonseca Luís
Published: July 2021

The electrochemical features of microbial fuel cells’ biocathodes, running on wastewater, were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry. Ex situ and in situ electrochemical assays were performed and the redox processes associated with the presence of microorganisms and/or biofilms were attained. Different controls using sterile media (abiotic cathode microbial fuel cell) and membranes covering the electrodes were performed to evaluate the source of the electrochemistry response (surface biofilms vs. biotic electrolyte). The bacteria presence, in particular when biofilms are allowed to develop, was related with the enhanced active redox processes associated with an improved catalytic activity, namely for oxygen reduction, when compared with the results attained for an abiotic microbial fuel cell cathode. The microbial main composition was also attained and is in agreement with other reported studies. The current study aims contributing to the establishment of the advantages of using biocathodes rather than abiotic, whose conditions are frequently harder to control and to contribute to a better understanding of the bioelectrochemical processes occurring on the biotic chambers and the electrode surfaces.
RGS5 Attenuates Baseline Activity of ERK1/2 and Promotes Growth Arrest of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Demirel Eda , Arnold Caroline , Garg Jaspal , Jäger Marius Andreas , Sticht Carsten , Li Rui , Kuk Hanna , Wettschureck Nina , Hecker Markus , Korff Thomas
Published: July 2021

The regulator of G-protein signaling 5 (RGS5) acts as an inhibitor of Gαq/11 and Gαi/o activity in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), which regulate arterial tone and blood pressure. While RGS5 has been described as a crucial determinant regulating the VSMC responses during various vascular remodeling processes, its regulatory features in resting VSMCs and its impact on their phenotype are still under debate and were subject of this study. While Rgs5 shows a variable expression in mouse arteries, neither global nor SMC-specific genetic ablation of Rgs5 affected the baseline blood pressure yet elevated the phosphorylation level of the MAP kinase ERK1/2. Comparable results were obtained with 3D cultured resting VSMCs. In contrast, overexpression of RGS5 in 2D-cultured proliferating VSMCs promoted their resting state as evidenced by microarray-based expression profiling and attenuated the activity of Akt- and MAP kinase-related signaling cascades. Moreover, RGS5 overexpression attenuated ERK1/2 phosphorylation, VSMC proliferation, and migration, which was mimicked by selectively inhibiting Gαi/o but not Gαq/11 activity. Collectively, the heterogeneous expression of Rgs5 suggests arterial blood vessel type-specific functions in mouse VSMCs. This comprises inhibition of acute agonist-induced Gαq/11/calcium release as well as the support of a resting VSMC phenotype with low ERK1/2 activity by suppressing the activity of Gαi/o.
Vascularization Strategies in Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Simunovic Filip , Finkenzeller Günter
Published: July 2021

Bone is a highly vascularized tissue, and its development, maturation, remodeling, and regeneration are dependent on a tight regulation of blood vessel supply. This condition also has to be taken into consideration in the context of the development of artificial tissue substitutes. In classic tissue engineering, bone-forming cells such as primary osteoblasts or mesenchymal stem cells are introduced into suitable scaffolds and implanted in order to treat critical-size bone defects. However, such tissue substitutes are initially avascular. Because of the occurrence of hypoxic conditions, especially in larger tissue substitutes, this leads to the death of the implanted cells. Therefore, it is necessary to devise vascularization strategies aiming at fast and efficient vascularization of implanted artificial tissues. In this review article, we present and discuss the current vascularization strategies in bone tissue engineering. These are based on the use of angiogenic growth factors, the co-implantation of blood vessel forming cells, the ex vivo microfabrication of blood vessels by means of bioprinting, and surgical methods for creating surgically transferable composite tissues.
Theoretical Investigation of the EPR G-Factor for the Axial Symmetry Ce3+ Center in the BaWO4 Single Crystal
Authors: Bodziony Tomasz , Kaczmarek Sławomir Maksymilian
Published: July 2021

The parameters g-factor (g||  and  g⊥) together with the local structure of the Ce3+ center in BaWO4 single crystal (scheelite structure crystals) were theoretically investigated using a complete diagonalization procedure of energy matrix (CDM method). The intrinsic parameters were calculated. It is shown that the experimental and the calculated values of the g-factors are in good agreement. The angular distortion has also been calculated. It was found that the polar angles of the impurity–ligand bonding are smaller than in BaWO4 single crystal (Δθ≈1.0° ) . The validity of the results and the changing in the local environment of the impurity–cerium ion is also discussed.
Mapping Pigments in a Painting with Low Frequency Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: McCarthy Shane , Wiskoski Haley , Hornak Joseph P.
Published: July 2021

An electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) mobile universal surface explorer (MOUSE) was recently introduced for noninvasively studying paramagnetic pigments in paintings. This study determined that the EPR MOUSE could map the spatial locations of four pigments in a simple impasto painting. Results from three spectral identification algorithms were examined to assess their ability to identify the pigments using an unsupervised approach. Resulting pigment maps are displayed as colorized images of the spatial distribution of the pigments. All three algorithms produced reasonable representations of the painting. The algorithms achieved excellent true positive, true negative, false positive, and false negative rates of ≥0.95, ≥0.98, ≤0.02, and ≤0.05, respectively, for the identification of the pigments. We conclude that the EPR MOUSE is suitable for accurately mapping the location of paramagnetic pigments in a painting.
3D Tiles-Based High-Efficiency Visualization Method for Complex BIM Models on the Web
Authors: Zhan Wenxiao , Chen Yuxuan , Chen Jing
Published: July 2021

Geographic data visualization is an important research area of Web Geographic Information System (GIS). Owing to the detailed subassemblies and exhaustive knowledge database, building information modeling (BIM) plays an important role in geospatial research and industries. The integration of BIM and GIS contributes to the smooth visualization, quick construction, and efficient management of geographic data. However, there are very few methods that can yield high-efficiency data transmission and visualization for complex BIM models while maintaining the integrity of the internal subassembly structure and attributes. To overcome this issue, this paper proposes a 3D Tiles-based visualization method for complex BIM models on the Web-based 3D model viewer. This method is adopted to partition the BIM model according to its assembly without simplifying the BIM model, by using a tiling method for 3D models based on a degraded R-tree, which accounts for the size of tiles. Subsequently, we introduce the “Mask Filter,” a level of detail method that is used to layer the BIM model. Conducting a series of contrast experiments, the result indicates that this method is efficient and feasible, which significantly improves visualization performance of complex BIM with mass data in the geospatial scene and facilitates the integration of Building Information Modeling and Geographic Information System.
Moderating Effect of Gender on the Relationship between Technology Readiness Index and Consumers’ Continuous Use Intention of Self-Service Restaurant Kiosks
Authors: Na Tae-Kyun , Lee Sun-Ho , Yang Jae-Yeon
Published: July 2021

This study aims to analyze the moderating effect of gender on the relationship between technology readiness and willingness to continue using self-service kiosks in fast-food restaurants among middle-aged and older consumers. We conducted a survey from 1 May to 30 May 2020 among 320 consumers born in or before 1980 who only used kiosks in fast-food restaurants. The findings are as follows: First, the more innovative and optimistic the consumer, the more they are willing to continue using kiosks, whereas the more discomfort the consumer feels, the less likely they are to continue using them. Second, among technology readiness factors, a sense of insecurity does not have a significant effect on the willingness to continue to use kiosks. Third, among innovative consumers, men were found to be more likely to continue using kiosks than women. Thus, fast-food restaurant managers need to know that men and women perceive technology-based self-service differently.
Modelling and Simulation of Mechanical Loads and Residual Stresses in Deep Rolling at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Kuschel Sven , Kinner-Becker Tobias , Zmich Robert , Sölter Jens , Meyer Daniel
Published: July 2021

Based on the concept of Process Signatures, the deep rolling process is analyzed, aiming at functional relationships between material modifications and internal material loads during the process. The focus of this work is to investigate the influence of the workpiece temperature on the generated residual stress components. For this purpose, extensive finite element simulations of deep rolling were conducted, taking into account the effect of neighboring tool paths on the internal material loads and residual stress. A kinematic strain hardening model was parameterized and utilized and the simulations were validated experimentally. Simulated residual stresses agree qualitatively well with measurements and show a strong influence of the workpiece temperature as expected. Process Signature Components were generated, taking into account the maximal and minimal residual stress as well as their respective positions beneath the workpiece surface.
The Role of Soluble LAG3 and Soluble Immune Checkpoints Profile in Advanced Head and Neck Cancer: A Pilot Study
Authors: Botticelli Andrea , Zizzari Ilaria Grazia , Scagnoli Simone , Pomati Giulia , Strigari Lidia , Cirillo Alessio , Cerbelli Bruna , Di Filippo Alessandra , Napoletano Chiara , Scirocchi Fabio , Rughetti Aurelia , Nuti Marianna , Mezi Silvia , Marchetti Paolo
Published: July 2021

Unresectable recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M HNSCC) has a very poor prognosis. Soluble immune checkpoints (sICs) are circulating proteins that result from the alternative splicing of membrane proteins and can modulate the immune response to cancer cells. The aim of our pilot study was to determine the possible role of a comprehensive evaluation of sICs in the classification of prognosis and response to treatment in patients with advanced disease. We evaluated several sICs (CD137, CTLA-4, PD-1, PD-L1, PD-L2, TIM3, LAG3, GITR, HVEM, BTLA, IDO, CD80, CD27, and CD28) from peripheral blood at baseline and investigated the association with clinical characteristics and outcomes. A high baseline soluble LAG3 (sLAG3 > 377 pg/mL) resulted in an association with poor PFS and OS (p = 0.047 and p = 0.003, respectively). Moreover, sLAG3 emerged as an independent prognostic factor using an MVA (p = 0.005). The evaluation of sICs, in particular sLAG3, may be relevant for identifying patients with worse prognoses, or resistance to treatments, and may lead to the development of novel targeted strategies.
Decreased Tongue Pressure Associated with Aging, Chewing and Swallowing Difficulties of Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Taiwan
Authors: Liu Hsiu-Yueh , Chen Jen-Hao , Hsu Kun-Jung , Yao Ching-Teng , Chen Ping-Ho , Hsiao Szu-Yu , Lin Chun-Li
Published: July 2021

Personalized tongue pressure (TP) training focuses on improving swallowing. This study aims to establish the TP values of different age levels and compare changes between different swallowing status among community-dwelling elders. In this cross-sectional study, 1000 participants, aged 60 years old and above, were recruited from community care centers. All participants were classified into non chewing and/or swallowing difficulties (NCSD) and with chewing and/or swallowing difficulties (CSD) groups and their diseases and dieting status were recorded using a structured questionnaire. A disposable oral probe was used to measure TP by asking participants to compress it against the hard palate with maximum voluntary effort. Among 1000 elders, 63.10% had CSD and their TP (from 31.76 to 18.20 kPa) was lower than the NCSD group (from 33.56 to 24.51 kPa). Both groups showed the same tendency for TP decline with increasing age. Decline of TP makes CSD elderly have a poor appetite, eat a soft or liquid diet, and take longer to eat a meal (all p < 0.050). The secondary risk factor dominating TP decline for NCSD and CSD elders is having an education level less than primary school and an abnormal eating assessment, respectively. Our results demonstrated that TP decline has a significant relationship with age changes. Education level and an abnormal eating assessment score are closely associated with TP decline. A series of TP values can be used as a reference indicator of personalized medicine during the aging process among community-dwelling older adults.
Anabolic–Androgenic Steroid Abuse among Gym Users, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Albaker Walied , Alkhars Ali , Elamin Yasir , Jatoi Noor , Boumarah Dhuha , Al-Hariri Mohammed
Published: July 2021

Background and Objectives: The main aim of the present study was to assess the use of androgenic–anabolic steroids (AAS) and to investigate its potentially unfavorable effects among gym members attending gym fitness facilities in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was carried out during the summer of 2017. Male gym users in the Eastern Province region of Saudi Arabia were the respondents. Information on socio-demographics, use of AAS, knowledge, and awareness about its side effects were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: The prevalence of AAS consumption among trainees in Eastern Province was 21.3%. The percentage was highest among those 26–30 years of age (31.9%), followed by the 21–25 (27.4%) (p = 0.003) age group. Participants in the study were not aware of the potential adverse effects of AAS use. Adverse effects experienced by 77% of AAS users include psychiatric problems (47%), acne (32.7%), hair loss (14.2%), and sexual dysfunction (10.7%). Moreover, it appears that trainers and friends are major sources (75.20%) for obtaining AAS. Conclusion: AAS abuse is a real problem among gym members, along with a lack of knowledge regarding its adverse effects. Health education and awareness programs are needed not only for trainees, but also for trainers and gym owners as they are reportedly some of the primary sources of AAS.
Advanced Thermochromic Ink System for Medical Blood Simulation
Authors: Noorizadeh Mohammad , Alsalemi Abdullah , Alhomsi Yahya , Sayed Aya Nabil Khalaf Mohamed , Bensaali Faycal , Meskin Nader , Hssain Ali Ait
Published: July 2021

Simulators for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) have problems of bulky devices and low-fidelity methodologies. Hence, ongoing efforts for optimizing modern solutions focus on minimizing expenses and blending training with the intensive care unit. This is particularly evident following the coronavirus pandemic, where economic resources have been extensively cut. In this paper, as a part of an ECMO simulator for training management, an advance thermochromic ink system for medical blood simulation is presented. The system was developed and enhanced as a prototype with successful and reversible transitions between dark and bright red blood color to simulate blood oxygenation and deoxygenation in ECMO training sessions.
The Effect of TiN-, TiCN-, TiAlN-, and TiSiN Coated Tools on the Surface Defects and Geometric Tolerances of Holes in Multi-Spindle Drilling of Al2024 Alloy
Authors: Aamir Muhammad , Davis Adrian , Keeble William , Koklu Ugur , Giasin Khaled , Vafadar Ana , Tolouei-Rad Majid
Published: July 2021

The integrity of machined holes depends on many parameters, some of which are related to the cutting tool (geometry, coating, material). Other influential parameters are related to the machining process variables (spindle speed, feed rate, workpiece material), all of which can affect the quality of the hole and drilling induced damage on its surface. This study investigates the effect of uncoated tools and four types of tool coatings (TiN-, TiCN-, TiAlN-, and TiSiN) on the hole quality and its microstructure. The study analyzed several hole geometrical metrics, namely hole size, circularity, cylindricity, and perpendicularity of an Al2024 aluminum alloy using a multi-spindle drilling process that utilizes three drills capable of creating multiple holes simultaneously. The results showed that the uncoated carbide drill gave a high-hole quality at low spindle speed. Regarding the coated drills, TiCN coated drills produced holes with the least deviation, circularity, cylindricity and perpendicularity at high spindle speeds. TiSiN–carbide coated drills produced the most oversized holes and noticeable damage and deformations on their surface following TiAlN and TiN. The common surface damage found on the inner hole surface was smearing, feed marks, and metal debris adhesion. The ANOVA results revealed that the tool type had the highest percentage contribution that mainly affected the hole quality.
Chiral Imidazolium Prolinate Salts as Efficient Synzymatic Organocatalysts for the Asymmetric Aldol Reaction
Authors: Porcar Raúl , García-Verdugo Eduardo , Altava Belén , Burguete Maria Isabel , Luis Santiago V.
Published: July 2021

Chiral imidazolium l-prolinate salts, providing a complex network of supramolecular interaction in a chiral environment, have been studied as synzymatic catalytic systems. They are demonstrated to be green and efficient chiral organocatalysts for direct asymmetric aldol reactions at room temperature. The corresponding aldol products were obtained with moderate to good enantioselectivities. The influence of the presence of chirality in both the imidazolium cation and the prolinate anion on the transfer of chirality from the organocatalyst to the aldol product has been studied. Moreover, interesting match/mismatch situations have been observed regarding configuration of chirality of the two components through the analysis of results for organocatalysts derived from both enantiomers of prolinate (R/S) and the trans/cis isomers for the chiral fragment of the cation. This is associated with differences in the corresponding reaction rates but also to the different tendencies for the formation of aggregates, as evidenced by nonlinear effects studies (NLE). Excellent activities, selectivities, and enantioselectivities could be achieved by an appropriate selection of the structural elements at the cation and anion.
New Constituents from the Leaves of Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) of Saudi Origin
Authors: Suleiman Rami K. , Iali Wissam , El Ali Bassam , Umoren Saviour A.
Published: July 2021

The phytochemical analysis of the butanolic extract from the leaves of date palm of Saudi origin resulted in the isolation of three major constituents, oleanolic acid (1), vanillyl alcohol (2), and β-sitosterol-3-O-β-d-glucoside (3), which had not been isolated from this plant or previously reported. Together, compounds 1 and 2 account for 1.0% of the butanol extract, which represents 0.4% of the mass of the dried leaves. The isolation of other known compounds for this plant such as fatty acids, lutein, and sucrose was also achieved in this study. The characterization and identification of the isolated compounds were conducted on the basis of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS), and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analyses. The findings of the current study will definitely increase the knowledge about the contribution of the constituents of this plant to its well-known nutrition, corrosion inhibition, and antimicrobial properties.
Tuning Photodynamic Properties of BODIPY Dyes, Porphyrins’ Little Sisters
Authors: Krzemien Wojciech , Rohlickova Monika , Machacek Miloslav , Novakova Veronika , Piskorz Jaroslaw , Zimcik Petr
Published: July 2021

The photodynamic properties of a series of non-halogenated, dibrominated and diiodinated BODIPYs with a phthalimido or amino end modification on the phenoxypentyl and phenoxyoctyl linker in the meso position were investigated. Halogen substitution substantially increased the singlet oxygen production based on the heavy atom effect. This increase was accompanied by a higher photodynamic activity against skin melanoma cancer cells SK-MEL-28, with the best compound reaching an EC50 = 0.052 ± 0.01 µM upon light activation. The dark toxicity (toxicity without light activation) of all studied dyes was not detected up to the solubility limit in cell culture medium (10 µM). All studied BODIPY derivatives were predominantly found in adiposomes (lipid droplets) with further lower signals colocalized in either endolysosomal vesicles or the endoplasmic reticulum. A detailed investigation of cell death indicated that the compounds act primarily through the induction of apoptosis. In conclusion, halogenation in the 2,6 position of BODIPY dyes is crucial for the efficient photodynamic activity of these photosensitizers.
Phytotoxicity of Schiekia timida Seed Extracts, a Mixture of Phenylphenalenones
Authors: Ocampos Fernanda Maria Marins , de Souza Ana Julia Borim , Antar Guilherme Medeiros , Wouters Felipe Christoff , Colnago Luiz Alberto
Published: July 2021

Phenylphenalenones, metabolites found in Schiekia timida (Haemodoraceae), are a class of specialized metabolites with many biological activities, being phytoalexins in banana plants. In the constant search to solve the problem of glyphosate and to avoid resistance to commercial herbicides, this work aimed to investigate the phytotoxic effect of the methanolic extract of S. timida seeds. The chemical composition of the seed extract was directly investigated by NMR and UPLC-QToF MS and the pre- and post-emergence phytotoxic effect on a eudicotyledonous model (Lactuca sativa) and a monocotyledonous model (Allium cepa) was evaluated through germination and seedling growth tests. Three concentrations of the extract (0.25, 0.50, and 1.00 mg/mL) were prepared, and four replicates for each of them were analyzed. Three major phenylphenalenones were identified by NMR spectroscopy: 4-hydroxy-anigorufone, methoxyanigorufone, and anigorufone, two of those reported for the first time in S. timida. The presence of seven other phenylphenalenones was suggested by the LC-MS analyses. The phenylphenalenone mixture did not affect the germination rate, but impaired radicle and hypocotyl growth on both models. The effect in the monocotyledonous model was statistically similar to glyphosate in the lowest concentration (0.25 mg/mL). Therefore, although more research on this topic is required to probe this first report, this investigation suggests for the first time that phenylphenalenone compounds may be post-emergence herbicides.
Efficacy of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents for Extraction of Hydrophilic and Lipophilic Compounds from Fucus vesiculosus
Authors: Obluchinskaya Ekaterina D. , Pozharitskaya Olga N. , Zakharova Lyubov V. , Daurtseva Anna V. , Flisyuk Elena V. , Shikov Alexander N.
Published: July 2021

The impact of the composition of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) and extraction conditions on the simultaneous extraction of hydrophilic ascorbic acid (AA), phlorotannins (TPhC), and lipophilic fucoxanthin (FX) from Fucus vesiculosus was investigated for the first time. In biological tests, the NADES extracts showed the promising ability to scavenge DPPH radicals. A positive correlation was observed between DPPH scavenging activity and AA, TPhC, and FX contents. We calculate the synergistic effect of antioxidants extracted by NADES from F. vesiculosus based on the mixture effect (ME). The addition of 30% water to the NADES and the prolongation of sonication time from 20 min up to 60 min were favorable for the ME. The ME for extracts with the NADES was increased by two folds (ME > 2). In contrast, conventional extraction by maceration with steering at 60 °C does not lead to the synergistic effect (ME = 1). It is notable that the NADES provides high stability and preserves the antioxidant activity of the extracts from F. vesiculosus during storage.
Riminophenazine Derivatives as Potential Antituberculosis Agents: Synthesis, Biological, and Electrochemical Evaluations
Authors: Bvumbi Mpelegeng Victoria , van der Westhuyzen Chris , Mmutlane Edwin M. , Ngwane Andile
Published: July 2021

A series of novel riminophenazine derivatives, having ionizable alkyl substituents at N-5 and a variety of substituents on the C-3 imino nitrogen, at C-8 and on the pendant aryl group, have been designed and synthesized. Preliminary investigations into the relationship between lipophilicity, redox potential, and antimycobacterial activity were conducted, using the in vitro activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv, mammalian cytotoxicity, and the redox potential of the compounds determined by cyclic voltammetry as measures. Results revealed an activity “cliff” associated with C-8 substitution (10l and 10m) that, along with defined redox activity, point to a new class of riminophenazines as potential anti-tuberculosis agents having reasonable activity (MIC99 ~1 µM).
A Novel Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase 1 Inhibitor Potently Prevents Toxoplasma gondii Transmission to Foetuses in Mouse
Authors: Débare Héloïse , Moiré Nathalie , Baron Firmin , Lantier Louis , Héraut Bruno , Van Langendonck Nathalie , Denevault-Sabourin Caroline , Dimier-Poisson Isabelle , Debierre-Grockiego Françoise
Published: July 2021

Treatments currently used to prevent congenital toxoplasmosis are non-specific of Toxoplasma gondii and have grievous side effects. To develop a more specific and less toxic drug, we have designed SP230, an imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine salt targeting the Toxoplasma gondii calcium-dependent protein kinase 1 (TgCDPK1) and active against acute toxoplasmosis in mice. Efficiency of SP230 to inhibit foetal transmission of the parasite was evaluated in a mouse model of congenital toxoplasmosis. Swiss mice were infected at mid-pregnancy with tachyzoites or cysts of the ME49 strain of T. gondii by intraperitoneal and oral route, respectively, and treated with SP230 at 50 mg/kg for 5 days by the same routes. Parasite burden in organs of dams and in foetuses was measured by quantitative PCR. Intraperitoneal administration of SP230 drastically reduced the number of parasites (more than 97% of reduction) in the brain and lungs of dams, and led to a reduction of 66% of parasite burden in foetuses. Oral administration of SP230 was particularly efficient with 97% of reduction of parasite burdens in foetuses. SP230 did not impact number and weight of offspring in our conditions. This inhibitor of TgCDPK1 is a promising candidate for the development of alternative therapeutics to treat infected pregnant women.
Influence of the Molecular Structure of Constituents and Liquid Phase Non-Ideality on the Viscosity of Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Alhadid Ahmad , Mokrushina Liudmila , Minceva Mirjana
Published: July 2021

Hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (DES) have recently been used as green alternatives to conventional solvents in several applications. In addition to their tunable melting temperature, the viscosity of DES can be optimized by selecting the constituents and molar ratio. This study examined the viscosity of 14 eutectic systems formed by natural substances over a wide range of temperatures and compositions. The eutectic systems in this study were classified as ideal or non-ideal based on their solid–liquid equilibria (SLE) data found in the literature. The eutectic systems containing constituents with cyclohexyl rings were considerably more viscous than those containing linear or phenyl constituents. Moreover, the viscosity of non-ideal eutectic systems was higher than that of ideal eutectic systems because of the strong intermolecular interactions in the liquid solution. At temperatures considerably lower than the melting temperature of the pure constituents, non-ideal and ideal eutectic systems with cyclohexyl constituents exhibited considerably high viscosity, justifying the kinetic limitations in crystallization observed in these systems. Overall, understanding the correlation between the molecular structure of constituents, SLE, and the viscosity of the eutectic systems will help in designing new, low-viscosity DES.
Mono- and Dinitro-BN-Naphthalenes: Formation and Characterization
Authors: Zhang Mao-Xi , Zuckerman Nathaniel B. , Pagoria Philip F. , Steele Bradley A. , Kuo I-Feng , Imler Gregory H. , Parrish Damon
Published: July 2021

Mono- and dinitro-BN-naphthalenes, i.e., 1-nitro-, 3-nitro-, 1,6-dinitro-, 3,6-dinitro-, and 1,8-dinitro-BNN, were generated in the nitration of 9,10-BN-naphthalene (BNN), a boron–nitrogen (BN) bond-embedded naphthalene, with AcONO2 and NO2BF4 in acetonitrile. The nitrated products were isolated and characterized by NMR, GC-MS, IR, and X-ray single crystallography. The effects of the nitration on the electron density and aromaticity of BNN were evaluated by B-11 NMR analysis and HOMA calculations.
Expanding the Chemical Space of Benzimidazole Dicationic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Mezzetta Andrea , Guglielmero Luca , Mero Angelica , Tofani Giorgio , D’Andrea Felicia , Pomelli Christian Silvio , Guazzelli Lorenzo
Published: July 2021

Benzimidazole dicationic ionic liquids (BDILs) have not yet been widely explored in spite of their potential. Therefore, two structurally related families of BDILs, paired with either bromide or bistriflimide anions and bearing alkyl spacers ranging from C3 to C6, have been prepared. Their thermal properties have been studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), while their electrical properties have been assessed by cyclic voltammetry (CV). TG analysis confirmed the higher stability of the bistriflimide BDILs over the bromide BDILs, with minor variation within the two families. Conversely, DSC and CV allowed for ascertaining the role played by the spacer length. In particular, the thermal behavior changed dramatically among the members of the bistriflimide family, and all three possible thermal behavior types of ILs were observed. Furthermore, cyclic voltammetry showed different electrochemical window (C3(C1BenzIm)2/2Tf2N < C4(C1BenzIm)2/2Tf2N, C5(C1BenzIm)2/2Tf2N < C6(C1BenzIm)2/2Tf2N) as well as a reduction peak potential, shape, and intensity as a function of the spacer length. The results obtained highlight the benefit of accessing a more structurally diverse pool of compounds offered by dicationic ILs when compared to the parent monocationic ILs. In particular, gains are to be found in the ease of fine-tuning their properties, which translates in facilitating further investigations toward BDILs as designer solvents and catalysts.
Carbon Isotope Fractionation during the Formation of CO2 Hydrate and Equilibrium Pressures of 12CO2 and 13CO2 Hydrates
Authors: Kimura Hiromi , Fuseya Go , Takeya Satoshi , Hachikubo Akihiro
Published: July 2021

Knowledge of carbon isotope fractionation is needed in order to discuss the formation and dissociation of naturally occurring CO2 hydrates. We investigated carbon isotope fractionation during CO2 hydrate formation and measured the three-phase equilibria of 12CO2–H2O and 13CO2–H2O systems. From a crystal structure viewpoint, the difference in the Raman spectra of hydrate-bound 12CO2 and 13CO2 was revealed, although their unit cell size was similar. The δ13C of hydrate-bound CO2 was lower than that of the residual CO2 (1.0–1.5‰) in a formation temperature ranging between 226 K and 278 K. The results show that the small difference between equilibrium pressures of ~0.01 MPa in 12CO2 and 13CO2 hydrates causes carbon isotope fractionation of ~1‰. However, the difference between equilibrium pressures in the 12CO2–H2O and 13CO2–H2O systems was smaller than the standard uncertainties of measurement; more accurate pressure measurement is required for quantitative discussion.
Polyphenols and Human Beings: From Epidemiology to Molecular Targets
Authors: Santos-Buelga Celestino
Published: July 2021

Dietary polyphenols have been associated with health benefits in the prevention of a range of degenerative and age-related diseases that constitute the major causes of death and incapacitation in developed countries [...]
Application of Nanotechnology in Analysis and Removal of Heavy Metals in Food and Water Resources
Authors: Gong Zhaoyuan , Chan Hiu Ting , Chen Qilei , Chen Hubiao
Published: July 2021

Toxic heavy metal contamination in food and water from environmental pollution is a significant public health issue. Heavy metals do not biodegrade easily yet can be enriched hundreds of times by biological magnification, where toxic substances move up the food chain and eventually enter the human body. Nanotechnology as an emerging field has provided significant improvement in heavy metal analysis and removal from complex matrices. Various techniques have been adapted based on nanomaterials for heavy metal analysis, such as electrochemical, colorimetric, fluorescent, and biosensing technology. Multiple categories of nanomaterials have been utilized for heavy metal removal, such as metal oxide nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, graphene and derivatives, and carbon nanotubes. Nanotechnology-based heavy metal analysis and removal from food and water resources has the advantages of wide linear range, low detection and quantification limits, high sensitivity, and good selectivity. There is a need for easy and safe field application of nanomaterial-based approaches.
Trivalent Cations Detection of Magnetic-Sensitive Microcapsules by Controlled-Release Fluorescence Off-On Sensor
Authors: Du Bo-Wei , Lin Ching-Chang , Ko Fu-Hsiang
Published: July 2021

A pyrene-based derivative, 2-((pyrene-1-ylmethylene)amino)ethanol (PE) nanoparticle, was encapsulated via water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) double emulsion with the solvent evaporation method by one-pot reaction and utilized as a fluorescence turn-on sensor for detecting Fe3+, Cr3+, and Al3+ ions. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) embedded in polycaprolactone (PCL) were used as the magnetic-sensitive polyelectrolyte microcapsule-triggered elements in the construction of the polymer matrix. The microcapsules were characterized by ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) and photoluminescence (PL) titrations, quantum yield (Φf) calculations, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and superconducting quantum interference device magnetometry (SQUID) studies. This novel responsive release of the microcapsule fluorescence of the turn-on sensor for detecting trivalent cations was due to the compound PE and the MNPs being incorporated well within the whole system, and an effective thermal and kinetic energy transfer between the core and shell structure efficiently occurred in the externally oscillating magnetic field. The magnetic-sensitive fluorescence turn-on microcapsules show potential for effective metal ion sensing in environmental monitoring and even biomedical applications. Under the optimal controlled-release probe fluorescence conditions with high-frequency magnetic field treatment, the limit of detection (LOD) reached 1.574–2.860 μM and recoveries ranged from 94.7–99.4% for those metals in tap water.
Fungal Development and Callose Deposition in Compatible and Incompatible Interactions in Melon Infected with Powdery Mildew
Authors: Beraldo-Hoischen Paola , Hoefle Caroline , López-Sesé Ana I.
Published: July 2021

Two post-haustorial resistance mechanisms (types I and II) against powdery mildew, caused by Podosphaera xanthii, have been described previously in melon according to the arresting of fungal development and the timing of hypersensitive response (HR) in host cells. In our work, host-pathogen interactions between races 1, 2, and 5 of Podosphaera and several melon accessions carrying different resistance genes, have been characterized by observing several parameters, such as the number of fungal penetration points with callose accumulation, the number of epidermal cells with callose accumulation in their cell walls, and the number of conidiophores developed. Influence of temperature was observed in some cases affecting the timing of fungal development arrest. According to our results, besides the compatible interaction, four different resistance behaviors in the plant–pathogen interaction have been observed herein: type I and II, as described previously, as well as an earlier and a later type II: IIa and IIb, respectively. Melon genotypes showing post-haustorial resistance mechanism types IIa and IIb against powdery mildew, seem to show different behavior according to temperature, affecting fungal development, mainly those genotypes carrying QTL of linkage group V for powdery mildew resistance, such as “TGR-1551”.
An Investigation of the Relationship between Cyniclomyces guttulatus and Rabbit Diarrhoea
Authors: Shi Tuanyuan , Yan Xinlei , Sun Hongchao , Fu Yuan , Hao Lili , Zhou Yongxue , Liu Yan , Han Wenying , Bao Guolian , Suo Xun
Published: July 2021

Cyniclomyces guttulatus is usually recognised as an inhabitant of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in rabbits. However, large numbers of C. guttulatus are often detected in the faeces of diarrhoeic rabbits. The relationship of C. guttulatus with rabbit diarrhoea needs to be clearly identified. In this study, a C. guttulatus Zhejiang strain was isolated from a New Zealand White rabbit with severe diarrhoea and then inoculated into SPF New Zealand white rabbits alone or co-inoculated with Eimeriaintestinalis, another kind of pathogen in rabbits. Our results showed that the optimal culture medium pH and temperature for this yeast were pH 4.5 and 40–42 °C, respectively. The sequence lengths of the 18S and 26S ribosomal DNA fragments were 1559 bp and 632 bp, respectively, and showed 99.8% homology with the 18S ribosomal sequence of the NRRL Y-17561 isolate from dogs and 100% homology with the 26S ribosomal sequence of DPA-CGR1 and CGDPA-GP1 isolates from rabbits and guinea pigs, respectively. In animal experiments, the C. guttulatus Zhejiang strain was not pathogenic to healthy rabbits, even when 1 × 108 vegetative cells were used per rabbit. Surprisingly, rabbits inoculated with yeast showed a slightly better body weight gain and higher food intake. However, SPF rabbits co-inoculated with C. guttulatus and E. intestinalis developed more severe coccidiosis than rabbits inoculated with C. guttulatus or E. intestinalis alone. In addition, we surveyed the prevalence of C. guttulatus in rabbits and found that the positive rate was 83% in Zhejiang Province. In summary, the results indicated that C. guttulatus alone is not pathogenic to healthy rabbits, although might be an opportunistic pathogen when the digestive tract is damaged by other pathogens, such as coccidia.
The Potential Role of an Aberrant Mucosal Immune Response to SARS-CoV-2 in the Pathogenesis of IgA Nephropathy
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Zhang Guorong , Guo Meng , Tao Wanyin , Liu Xingzi , Wei Haiming , Jin Tengchuan , Zhang Yuemiao , Zhu Shu
Published: July 2021

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become a global concern. Immunoglobin A (IgA) contributes to virus neutralization at the early stage of infection. Longitudinal studies are needed to assess whether SARS-CoV-2-specific IgA production persists for a longer time in patients recovered from severe COVID-19 and its lasting symptoms that can have disabling consequences should also be alerted to susceptible hosts. Here, we tracked the anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) antibody levels in a cohort of 88 COVID-19 patients. We found that 52.3% of the patients produced more anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD IgA than IgG or IgM, and the levels of IgA remained stable during 4–41 days of infection. One of these IgA-dominant COVID-19 patients, concurrently with IgA nephropathy (IgAN), presented with elevated serum creatinine and worse proteinuria during the infection, which continued until seven months post-infection. The serum levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD and total IgA were higher in this patient than in healthy controls. Changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota, increased IgA highly coated bacteria, and elevated concentration of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-18 were indicative of potential involvement of intestinal dysbiosis and inflammation to the systemic IgA level and, consequently, the disease progression. Collectively, our work highlighted the potential adverse effect of the mucosal immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, and that additional care should be taken with COVID-19 patients presenting with chronic diseases such as IgAN.
The Breeding of Winter-Hardy Malting Barley
Authors: Stockinger Eric J.
Published: July 2021

In breeding winter malting barley, one recurring strategy is to cross a current preferred spring malting barley to a winter barley. This is because spring malting barleys have the greatest amalgamation of trait qualities desirable for malting and brewing. Spring barley breeding programs can also cycle their material through numerous generations each year—some managing even six—which greatly accelerates combining desirable alleles to generate new lines. In a winter barley breeding program, a single generation per year is the limit when the field environment is used and about two generations per year if vernalization and greenhouse facilities are used. However, crossing the current favored spring malting barley to a winter barley may have its downsides, as winter-hardiness too may be an amalgamation of desirable alleles assembled together that confers the capacity for prolonged cold temperature conditions. In this review I touch on some general criteria that give a variety the distinction of being a malting barley and some of the general trends made in the breeding of spring malting barleys. But the main objective of this review is to pull together different aspects of what we know about winter-hardiness from the seemingly most essential aspect, which is survival in the field, to molecular genetics and gene regulation, and then finish with ideas that might help further our insight for predictability purposes.
Impact Resistance of Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Amazon Guaruman Fiber: A Brief Report
Authors: Reis Raphael , Garcia Filho Fabio , Nunes Larissa , Candido Veronica , Silva Alisson , Monteiro Sergio
Published: July 2021

Fibers extracted from Amazonian plants that have traditionally been used by local communities to produce simple items such as ropes, nets, and rugs, are now recognized as promising composite reinforcements. This is the case for guaruman (Ischinosiphon körn) fiber, which was recently found to present potential mechanical and ballistic properties as 30 vol% reinforcement of epoxy composites. To complement these properties, Izod impact tests are now communicated in this brief report for similar composites with up to 30 vol% of guaruman fibers. A substantial increase in impact resistance, with over than 20 times the absorbed energy for the 30 vol% guaruman fiber composite, was obtained in comparison to neat epoxy. These results were statistically validated by Weibull analysis, ANOVA, and Tukey’s test. Scanning electron microscopy analysis disclosed the mechanisms responsible for the impact performance of the guaruman fiber composites.