bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparing Biochars from Cow Hair Waste Produced in a Tannery for Dye Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Song Jinzhi , Li Yun , Wang Yang , Zhong Lei , Liu Yang , Sun Xinyue , He Bo , Li Yanchun , Cao Shan
Published: March 2021

A large amount of cow hair solid waste is produced in leather production, and a reasonable treatment should be developed to reduce the pollution. In this study, cow hair waste was utilized as the carbon precursor, and N2 was determined to be the most appropriate atmosphere for biochar preparation. We performed a comparison of the properties of biochars that were prepared with different methods, including direct pyrolysis, KOH activation, and the MgO template method. The characterization results show that the highest specific surface area reaches 1753.075 m2/g. Subsequently, the keratin that was extracted from cow hair and purified was used to prepare a biochar with the MgO template method, obtaining an orderly sponge structure. The biochar from cow hair waste was further used to absorb direct blue dye wastewater, and its adsorption capacity reached 1477 mg/g after 10 h with a high efficiency of regeneration. This study successfully utilized keratin-containing hair waste and provides a new source for synthesizing carbon materials for dye wastewater treatment.
Surface Quality Improvement by Using a Novel Driving System Design in Single-Side Planetary Abrasive Lapping
Authors: Chen Zhenzhen , Wen Donghui , Lu Jianfei , Yang Jie , Qi Huan
Published: March 2021

For the traditional single-side planetary abrasive lapping process particle trajectories passing over the target surface are found to be periodically superposed due to the rational rotation speed ratio of the lapping plate to workpiece that could affect the material removal uniformity and hence its surface quality. This paper reports on a novel driving system design with combination of the tapered roller and contact roller to realize the irrational rotation speed ratio of the lapping plate to workpiece in the single-side planetary abrasive lapping process for the improvement of surface quality. Both of the numerical and experimental investigations have been conducted to evaluate the abrasive lapping performance of the novel driving system. It has been found from the numerical simulation that particle trajectories would theoretically cover the whole target surface if the lapping time is long enough due to their non-periodic characteristics, which can guarantee the uniformity of material removal from the surface of workpiece with relatively high surface quality. The encouraging experimental results underline the potential of the novel driving system design in the application of the single-side planetary abrasive lapping for the improvement of the surface quality in terms of surface roughness and material removal uniformity.
The Effect of Liquid Slurry-Enhanced Corrosion on the Phase Composition of Selected Portland Cement Pastes
Authors: Durczak Karol , Pyzalski Michał , Pilarski Krzysztof , Brylewski Tomasz , Sujak Agnieszka
Published: March 2021

This paper presents the scientific problem of the biological corrosion of Portland cements and its effects on the phase composition of cement pastes after the corrosion process in the environment of reactive media from the agricultural industry. Seven Portland cements produced from different cement plants exposed to pig slurry and water as a reference medium for a period of six weeks were tested. After the exposure process in both of the above-mentioned reaction environments, the hydrating cement pastes were characterized in terms of their phase composition using the XRD method and were also subjected to morphological observations and a chemical composition analysis with the application of SEM and EDS methods. The results of these studies indicate the presence of a biological corrosion product in the form of taumasite [C3S·CO2·SO3·15H2O], which is a phase formed as a result of the reaction of dead matter (cement paste) with living matter, caused by the presence of bacteria in pig slurry. In addition to taumasite, the tested samples also showed the presence of the hydration product of Portland cements named portlandite (Ca(OH)2). Moreover, unreacted phases of cement clinker, i.e., dicalcium silicate (C2S) and tricalcium aluminate (C3A), were detected. Based on microscopic observations and analyses of the chemical composition of selected areas of the samples, the presence of the taumasite phase and compact areas of pseudo-crystalline C-S-H phases with different morphological structures, derived from the hydration products of cements doped with ions originating from the corrosive environment, were confirmed.
Gd3+ Doped CoFe2O4 Nanoparticles for Targeted Drug Delivery and Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Javed Fatima , Abbas Muhammad Asad , Asad Muhammad Imran , Ahmed Naveed , Naseer Nauman , Saleem Hassan , Errachid Abdelhamid , Lebaz Noureddine , Elaissari Abdelhamid , Ahmad Nasir M.
Published: March 2021

Nanoparticles of CoGdxFe2 − xO4 (x = 0%, 25%, 50%) synthesized via sol–gel auto combustion technique and encapsulated within a polymer (Eudragit E100) shell containing curcumin by single emulsion solvent evaporation technique were formulated in this study. Testing of synthesized nanoparticles was carried out by using different characterization techniques, to investigate composition, crystallinity, size, morphology, surface charge, functional groups and magnetic properties of the samples. The increased hydrophilicity resulted in sustained drug release of 90.6% and 95% for E1(CoGd0.25Fe1.75O4) and E2(CoGd0.50Fe1.5O4), respectively, over a time span of 24 h. The relaxivities of the best-chosen samples were measured by using a 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine, and a high r2/r1 ratio of 43.64 and 23.34 for composition E1(CoGd0.25Fe1.75O4) and E2(CoGd0.50Fe1.5O4) suggests their ability to work as a better T2 contrast agent. Thus, these novel synthesized nanostructures cannot only enable MRI diagnosis but also targeted drug delivery.
The Influence of Ultrasound-Guided Technique Using a Catheter-Over-Needle on the Incidence of Accidental Intravascular Injection during Caudal Block-A Retrospective Case Series Study
Authors: Oh Daeseok
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives: This study was conducted to investigate the influence of an ultrasound-guided technique using a catheter-over-needle when an intravascular injection occurs in patients undergoing a caudal block. Material and Methods: We retrospectively investigated 41 cases of an ultrasound-guided technique using an angiocatheter for caudal block. These had been performed between November 2019 through August 2020 to manage pain of lumbosacral origin. Under ultrasound guidance, after advancing the introducer needle through the sacrococcygeal ligament and then slowly withdrawing it, the outer catheter was continuously advanced into the sacral hiatus. We confirmed proper needle placement under fluoroscopic imaging, using 5 mL of contrast media. We assessed the contrast spread pattern with fluoroscopic imaging and checked it for the presence of intravascular injection. Results: In all recruited cases, the catheter-over-needle was guided successfully to the sacral hiatus and into the caudal epidural space. There was 100% accuracy under ultrasound guidance, without intravascular uptake, as confirmed by contrast media fluoroscopy. The incidence of ventral spread was 84.2% above the S1 with 5 mL of contrast. Conclusions: The technique of using a catheter-over-needle under ultrasound induced successful block without intravascular injection. Thus, this technique is a reliable option for conventional caudal block.
Gas Permeation Properties of High-Silica CHA-Type Zeolite Membrane
Authors: Hasegawa Yasuhisa , Abe Chie , Natsui Mayumi , Ikeda Ayumi
Published: March 2021

The polycrystalline CHA-type zeolite layer with Si/Al = 18 was formed on the porous α-Al2O3 tube in this study, and the gas permeation properties were determined using single-component H2, CO2, N2, CH4, n-C4H10, and SF6 at 303–473 K. The membrane showed permeation behavior, wherein the permeance reduced with the molecular size, attributed to the effect of molecular sieving. The separation performances were also determined using the equimolar mixtures of N2–SF6, CO2–N2, and CO2–CH4. As a result, the N2/SF6 and CO2/CH4 selectivities were as high as 710 and 240, respectively. However, the CO2/N2 selectivity was only 25. These results propose that the high-silica CHA-type zeolite membrane is suitable for the separation of CO2 from CH4 by the effect of molecular sieving.
Researches and Simulations in Steel Rolling
Authors: Grajcar Adam
Published: March 2021

Steel is one of the world’s most popular metallic alloys [...]
Temperature Resistance of Mo3Si: Phase Stability, Microhardness, and Creep Properties
Authors: Kauss Olha , Obert Susanne , Bogomol Iurii , Wablat Thomas , Siemensmeyer Nils , Naumenko Konstantin , Krüger Manja
Published: March 2021

Mo-Si-B alloys are one of the most promising candidates to substitute Ni based superalloys in gas turbines. The optimization of their composition can be achieved more effectively using multi-scale modeling of materials behavior and structural analysis of components for understanding, predicting, and screening properties of new alloys. Nevertheless, this approach is dependent on data on the properties of the single phases in these alloys. The focus of this investigation is Mo3Si, one of the phases in typical Mo-Si-B alloys. The effect of 100 h annealing at 1600 °C on phase stability and microhardness of its three near-stoichiometric compositions—Mo-23Si, Mo-24Si and Mo-25Si (at %)—is reported. While Mo-23Si specimen consist only of Mo3Si before and after annealing, Mo-24Si and Mo-25Si comprise Mo5Si3 and Mo3Si before annealing. The latter is then increased by the annealing. No significant difference in microhardness was detected between the different compositions as well as after annealing. The creep properties of Mo3Si are described at 1093 °C and 1300 °C at varying stress levels as well as at 300 MPa and temperatures between 1050 °C and 1350 °C. Three constitutive models were used for regression of experimental results—(i) power law with a constant creep exponent, (ii) stress range dependent law, and (iii) power law with a temperature-dependent creep exponent. It is confirmed that Mo3Si has a higher creep resistance than Moss and multi-phase Mo-Si-B alloys, but a lower creep strength as compared to Mo5SiB2.
Metabolomics of Photosynthetically Active Tissues in White Grapes: Effects of Light Microclimate and Stress Mitigation Strategies
Authors: Garrido Andreia , Engel Jasper , Mumm Roland , Conde Artur , Cunha Ana , De Vos Ric C. H.
Published: March 2021

The effects of climate change are becoming a real concern for the viticulture sector, with impacts on both grapevine physiology and the quality of the fresh berries and wine. Short-term mitigation strategies, like foliar kaolin application and smart irrigation regimes, have been implemented to overcome these problems. We previously showed that these strategies also influence the photosynthetic activity of the berries themselves, specifically in the exocarp and seed. In the present work, we assessed the modulating effects of both canopy-light microclimate, kaolin and irrigation treatments on the metabolic profiles of the exocarp and seed, as well as the potential role of berry photosynthesis herein. Berries from the white variety Alvarinho were collected at two contrasting light microclimate positions within the vine canopy (HL—high light and LL—low light) from both irrigated and kaolin-treated plants, and their respective controls, at three fruit developmental stages (green, véraison and mature). Untargeted liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LCMS) profiling of semi-polar extracts followed by multivariate statistical analysis indicate that both the light microclimate and irrigation influenced the level of a series of phenolic compounds, depending on the ripening stage of the berries. Moreover, untargeted gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) profiling of polar extracts show that amino acid and sugar levels were influenced mainly by the interaction of irrigation and kaolin treatments. The results reveal that both photosynthetically active berry tissues had a distinct metabolic profile in response to the local light microclimate, which suggests a specific role of photosynthesis in these tissues. A higher light intensity within the canopy mainly increased the supply of carbon precursors to the phenylpropanoid/flavonoid pathway, resulting in increased levels of phenolic compounds in the exocarp, while in seeds, light mostly influenced compounds related to carbon storage and seed development. In addition, our work provides new insights into the influence of abiotic stress mitigation strategies on the composition of exocarps and seeds, which are both important tissues for the quality of grape-derived products.
Calibration-Curve-Locking Database for Semi-Quantitative Metabolomics by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Hata Kosuke , Soma Yuki , Yamashita Toshiyuki , Takahashi Masatomo , Sugitate Kuniyo , Serino Takeshi , Miyagawa Hiromi , Suzuki Kenichi , Yamada Kayoko , Kawamukai Takatomo , Shiota Teruhisa , Izumi Yoshihiro , Bamba Takeshi
Published: March 2021

Calibration-Curve-Locking Databases (CCLDs) have been constructed for automatic compound search and semi-quantitative screening by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) in several fields. CCLD felicitates the semi-quantification of target compounds without calibration curve preparation because it contains the retention time (RT), calibration curves, and electron ionization (EI) mass spectra, which are obtained under stable apparatus conditions. Despite its usefulness, there is no CCLD for metabolomics. Herein, we developed a novel CCLD and semi-quantification framework for GC/MS-based metabolomics. All analytes were subjected to GC/MS after derivatization under stable apparatus conditions using (1) target tuning, (2) RT locking technique, and (3) automatic derivatization and injection by a robotic platform. The RTs and EI mass spectra were obtained from an existing authorized database. A quantifier ion and one or two qualifier ions were selected for each target metabolite. The calibration curves were obtained as plots of the peak area ratio of the target compounds to an internal standard versus the target compound concentration. These data were registered in a database as a novel CCLD. We examined the applicability of CCLD for analyzing human plasma, resulting in time-saving and labor-saving semi-qualitative screening without the need for standard substances.
Salivary Osteopontin as a Potential Biomarker for Oral Mucositis
Authors: Gebri Enikő , Kiss Attila , Tóth Ferenc , Hortobágyi Tibor
Published: March 2021

Osteopontin (OPN), a multifunctional phosphoglycoprotein also presents in saliva, plays a crucial role in tumour progression, inflammation and mucosal protection. Mucosal barrier injury due to high-dose conditioning regimen administered during autologous and allogeneic peripheral stem cell transplantation (APSCT) has neither efficient therapy nor established biomarkers. Our aim was to assess the biomarker role of OPN during APSCT, with primary focus on oral mucositis (OM). Serum and salivary OPN levels were determined by ELISA in 10 patients during APSCT at four stages of transplantation (day −3/−7, 0, +7, +14), and in 23 respective healthy controls. Results: There was a negative correlation between both salivary and serum OPN levels and grade of OM severity during APSCT (r = −0.791, p = 0.019; r = −0.973, p = 0.001). Salivary OPN increased at days +7 (p = 0.011) and +14 (p = 0.034) compared to controls. Among patients, it was higher at day +14 compared to the time of admission (day −3/−7) (p = 0.039) and transplantation (day 0) (p = 0.011). Serum OPN remained elevated at all four stages of transplantation compared to controls (p = 0.013, p = 0.02, p = 0.011, p = 0.028). During APSCT elevated salivary OPN is a potential non-invasive biomarker of oral mucositis whereas the importance of high serum OPN warrants further studies.
Culture-Independent Genotyping, Virulence and Antimicrobial Resistance Gene Identification of Staphylococcus aureus from Orthopaedic Implant-Associated Infections
Authors: Noone J. Christopher , Ferreira Fabienne Antunes , Aamot Hege Vangstein
Published: March 2021

Our culture-independent nanopore shotgun metagenomic sequencing protocol on biopsies has the potential for same-day diagnostics of orthopaedic implant-associated infections (OIAI). As OIAI are frequently caused by Staphylococcus aureus, we included S. aureus genotyping and virulence gene detection to exploit the protocol to its fullest. The aim was to evaluate S. aureus genotyping, virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes detection using the shotgun metagenomic sequencing protocol. This proof of concept study included six patients with S. aureus-associated OIAI at Akershus University Hospital, Norway. Five tissue biopsies from each patient were divided in two: (1) conventional microbiological diagnostics and genotyping, and whole genome sequencing (WGS) of S. aureus isolates; (2) shotgun metagenomic sequencing of DNA from the biopsies. Consensus sequences were analysed using spaTyper, MLST, VirulenceFinder, and ResFinder from the Center for Genomic Epidemiology (CGE). MLST was also compared using krocus. All spa-types, one CGE and four krocus MLST results matched Sanger sequencing results. Virulence gene detection matched between WGS and shotgun metagenomic sequencing. ResFinder results corresponded to resistance phenotype. S. aureus spa-typing, and identification of virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes are possible using our shotgun metagenomics protocol. MLST requires further optimization. The protocol has potential application to other species and infection types.
Effect of the Long-Term Application of Sewage Sludge to A Calcareous Soil on Its Total and Bioavailable Content in Trace Elements, and Their Transfer to the Crop
Authors: Zaragüeta Armelle , Enrique Alberto , Virto Iñigo , Antón Rodrigo , Urmeneta Henar , Orcaray Luis
Published: March 2021

Sewage sludge (SS) can be used as an organic amendment in agricultural soils, provided they comply with the relevant legislation. This use can incorporate traces of metals into the soil, which can cause environmental or human health problems. In the study period between 1992 and 2018 (26 years), it was observed that the use of SS as an organic fertilizer significantly increased the total concentration of Zn, Cu, Cr, Ni and Hg of this study between 55.6% (Hg) and 7.0% (Ni). The concentration of Zn, Cu, Pb, Ni and Cd extracted with DTPA, also increased between 122.2% (Zn) and 11.3% (Cd). In contrast, the Mn concentrations extracted with Diethylene Triamine Pentaacetic Acid (DTPA)were 6.5% higher in the treatments without SS. These changes in the soil had an impact on the crop, which showed a significant increase in the concentration of Zn, Cu and Cr in the grain, between 15.0% (Cr) and 4.4% (Cu), and a decrease in the concentration of Mn, Cr and Ni in the barley straw when SS was added to the soil between 32.2% (Mn) and 29.6% (Ni). However, the limits established by current legislation on soil protection and food were not exceeded. This limited transfer to the crop, is likely due to the high content of carbonates and organic matter in the soil, which limit the bioavailability of most of the trace metals (TM) in the soil. As a conclusion, we observe that the use of SS as an organic amendment increased the concentration of some TM in the soil, in its bioavailable forms, and in the crop.
Geochemistry of the Cheremkhovo and Lower Prisayan Formations from the Jurassic Irkutsk Coal-Bearing Basin: Evidence for Provenance and Climate Change in Pliensbachian–Toarcian
Authors: Mikheeva Ekaterina A. , Demonterova Elena I. , Ivanov Alexei V.
Published: March 2021

The Cheremkhovo formation (Pliensbachian) is the primary coal-bearing formation of the Irkutsk basin, Eastern Siberia. Still, few geochemical studies of the Jurassic sediments of the Irkutsk coal-bearing basin have been conducted, and there are no data on the geochemistry of the coal-bearing formation itself. This study presents geochemical data for 68 samples from the Cheremkhovo formation and the overlying Lower Prisayan formation. The age of the former has been estimated by U-Pb dating of zircon from a tonstein (altered volcanic ash) layer as Pliensbachian, whereas the age of the latter is estimated as Pliensbachian–Toarcian according to regional stratigraphy. Major oxide and trace element concentrations were obtained using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Geochemical indicators showed diversity between the two studied formations. The indicators used show the change in climate conditions, from warm and humid in the Cheremkhovo formation, to hot and arid during the deposition of the lower Prisayan formation. The provenance of the Irkutsk coal-bearing basin was mainly influenced by the source composition, not recycling, and sediments were mainly derived from felsic to intermediate igneous rocks with a mixture of other rock types.
Stable Bromine Isotopic Composition of Coal Bed Methane (CBM) Produced Water, the Occurrence of Enriched 81Br, and Implications for Fluid Flow in the Midcontinent, USA
Authors: Stotler Randy L. , Kirk Matthew F. , Newell K. David , Goldstein Robert H. , Frape Shaun K. , Gwynne Rhys
Published: March 2021

This study characterizes the δ37Cl, δ81Br, and 87Sr/86Sr of coal bed methane produced fluids from Pennsylvanian Cherokee Group coals of the Cherokee Basin in southeast Kansas, USA. The δ37Cl, δ81Br, and 87Sr/86Sr values range between −0.81 and +0.68‰ (SMOC), −0.63 and +3.17‰ (SMOB), and 0.70880 and 0.71109, respectively. A large percentage of samples have δ81Br above +2.00‰. Two fluid groups were identified on the basis of K/Br, Br/Cl, and Ca/Mg ratios, temperature, He content, δ2H, δ18O, δ81Br, and 87Sr/86Sr. Both fluid groups have geochemical similarities to fluids in Cambrian, Ordovician, and Mississippian units. Lower salinity and higher temperature fluids from deeper units are leaking up into the Cherokee Group and mixing with a higher salinity fluid with higher δ81Br and more radiogenic 87Sr/86Sr. Variation in δ37Cl indicates an unknown process other than mixing is affecting the salinity. This process does not appear to be related to evaporation, evaporite dissolution, or diffusion. Insufficient data are available to evaluate halide–gas or water–rock interaction, but halide–gas interactions are not likely a significant contributor to high δ81Br. Rather, interactions with organically bound bromine and soluble chloride within the coal could have the strongest effect on δ37Cl and δ81Br values.
Study on Chromaticity Removal from Mineral Processing Wastewater with Salicylic Hydroxamic Acid by Granular Activated Carbon Catalyzed Ozonation
Authors: Zhang Liping , Wu Shengnian , Zhang Nan , Yao Ruihan , Wu Eryong
Published: March 2021

Salicylic hydroxamic acid is a novel flotation reagent used in mineral processing. However, it impacts the flotation wastewater leaving behind high chromaticity which limits its reuse and affects discharge for mining enterprises. This study researched ozonation catalyzed by the granular activated carbon (GAC) method to treat the chromaticity of the simulated mineral processing wastewater with salicylic hydroxamic acid. The effects of pH value, ozone (O3) concentration, GAC dosage, and reaction time on chromaticity and chemical oxygen demand (CODCr) removal were discussed. The results of individual ozonation experiments showed that the chromaticity removal ratio reached 79% and the effluent chromaticity exceeded the requirement of reuse and discharge when the optimal experimental conditions were pH value 3, ozone concentration 6 mg/L, and reaction time 40 min. The orthogonal experimental results of catalytic ozonation with GAC on chromaticity removal explained that the chromaticity removal ratio could reach 96.36% and the chromaticity of effluent was only 20 when the optimal level of experimental parameters was pH value 2.87, O3 concentration 6 mg/L, GAC dosage 0.06 g/L, reaction time 60 min respectively. The degradation pathway of salicylic hydroxamic acid by ozonation was also considered based on an analysis with ultraviolet absorption spectrum and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
Solvothermal Synthesis of Multiple Dihydropyrimidinones at a Time as Inhibitors of Eg5
Authors: Jiang Xiao-Qiang , Chen Shi-Quan , Liu Yan-Fei , Pan Xin-Guang , Chen Dan , Wang Shi-Fan
Published: March 2021

Solvothermal synthesis of multiple dihydropyrimidinones at a time has been developed in inexpensive and green bio-based solvent lactic acid without any additional catalysts or additives. By this method, thirty new dihydropyrimidinone derivatives were synthesized in two batches and characterized. All of the compounds were screened by Eg5 motor protein ATPase assay, and the positive compounds were tested against the Caco-2 cell line, HeLa cell line, L929 cell line and T24 cell line in vitro. Among them, compound C9 exhibited the best inhibitory activity against motor protein ATPase with an IC50 value of 30.25 μM and significant cytotoxic activity in the micromolar range against the cells above. The Lineweaver–Burk plot revealed that compound C9 was a mixed-type Eg5 inhibitor. A molecular modeling study using the Discovery Studio program was performed, where compound C9 exhibited good binding interaction with Eg5 motor protein ATPase, and this was consistent with the attained experimental results.
Chemical Stability of the Fertilizer Chelates Fe-EDDHA and Fe-EDDHSA over Time
Authors: Klem-Marciniak Ewelina , Huculak-Mączka Marta , Marecka Kinga , Hoffmann Krystyna , Hoffmann Józef
Published: March 2021

In application conditions, the influence of environmental parameters on used fertilizer chelates and their distribution over time is important. For this purpose, the changes in the content of micronutrient ions and Fe-EDDHA and Fe-EDDHSA chelates in an aqueous medium at different pH values were studied. In the assumed time, changes in the ions content were analyzed using the voltammetry method at pH 3, 5 and 7. The content of isomers and chelate forms was analyzed by ion pair chromatography at pH 3, 5 and 7. These studies allowed us to determine the effect of pH on the stability of iron chelates over time.
Facile Synthesis of Saikosaponins
Authors: Wang Ziqiang , Wei Bingcheng , Mu Tong , Xu Peng , Yu Biao
Published: March 2021

Saikosaponin A (SSa) and D (SSd) are typical oleanane-type saponins featuring a unique 13,28-epoxy-ether moiety at D ring of the aglycones, which exhibit a wide range of biological and pharmacological activities. Herein, we report the first synthesis of saikosaponin A/D (1–2) and their natural congeners, including prosaikosaponin F (3), G (4), saikosaponin Y (5), prosaikogenin (6), and clinoposaponin I (7). The present synthesis features ready preparation of the aglycones of high oxidation state from oleanolic acid, regioselective glycosylation to construct the β-(1→3)-linked disaccharide fragment, and efficient gold(I)-catalyzed glycosylation to install the glycans on to the aglycones.
Metabolite Profiling and Characterization of LW6, a Novel HIF-1α Inhibitor, as an Antitumor Drug Candidate in Mice
Authors: Lee Kiho , Lee Ji-Yoon , Lee Kyeong , Jung Cho-Rock , Kim Min Ju , Kim Jung Ah , Yoo Dong Gu , Shin Eun Jin , Oh Soo Jin
Published: March 2021

A novel HIF (hypoxia-inducible factor)-1α inhibitor, the (aryloxyacetylamino)benzoic acid derivative LW6, is an anticancer agent that inhibits the accumulation of HIF-1α. The aim of this study was to characterize and determine the structures of the metabolites of LW6 in ICR mice. Metabolite identification was performed using a predictive multiple reaction monitoring-information dependent acquisition-enhanced product ion (pMRM-IDA-EPI) method in negative ion mode on a hybrid triple quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometer (QTRAP). A total of 12 metabolites were characterized based on their MS/MS spectra, and the retention times were compared with those of the parent compound. The metabolites were divided into five structural classes based on biotransformation reactions: amide hydrolysis, ester hydrolysis, mono-oxidation, glucuronidation, and a combination of these reactions. From this study, 2-(4-((3r,5r,7r)-adamantan-1-yl)phenoxy)acetic acid (APA, M7), the metabolite produced via amide hydrolysis, was found to be a major circulating metabolite of LW6 in mice. The results of this study can be used to improve the pharmacokinetic profile by lowering the clearance and increasing the exposure relative to LW6.
CO2 Sequestration in the Production of Portland Cement Mortars with Calcium Carbonate Additions
Authors: Parvan Marius-George , Voicu Georgeta , Badanoiu Alina-Ioana , Nicoara Adrian-Ionut , Vasile Eugeniu
Published: March 2021

The paper presents the obtention and characterization of Portland cement mortars with limestone filler and nano-calcite additions. The nano-calcite was obtained by the injection of CO2 in a nano-Ca(OH)2 suspension. The resulted nano-CaCO3 presents different morphologies, i.e., polyhedral and needle like crystals, depending on the initial Ca(OH)2 concentration of the suspension. The formation of calcium carbonate in suspensions was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), complex thermal analysis (DTA-TG), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM and HRTEM). This demonstrates the viability of this method to successfully sequestrate CO2 in cement-based materials. The use of this type of nano-CaCO3 in mortar formulations based on PC does not adversely modify the initial and final setting time of cements; for all studied pastes, the setting time decreases with increase of calcium carbonate content (irrespective of the particle size). Specific hydrated phases formed by Portland cement hydration were observed in all mortars, with limestone filler additions or nano-CaCO3, irrespective of curing time. The hardened mortars with calcium carbonate additions (in adequate amounts) can reach the same mechanical strengths as reference (Portland cement mortar). The addition of nano-CaCO3 in the raw mix increases the mechanical strengths, especially at shorter hardening periods (3 days).
Profiling of Sub-Lethal in Vitro Effects of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Reveals Changes in Chemokines and Chemokine Receptors
Authors: Keshavan Sandeep , Andón Fernando Torres , Gallud Audrey , Chen Wei , Reinert Knut , Tran Lang , Fadeel Bengt
Published: March 2021

Engineered nanomaterials are potentially very useful for a variety of applications, but studies are needed to ascertain whether these materials pose a risk to human health. Here, we studied three benchmark nanomaterials (Ag nanoparticles, TiO2 nanoparticles, and multi-walled carbon nanotubes, MWCNTs) procured from the nanomaterial repository at the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission. Having established a sub-lethal concentration of these materials using two human cell lines representative of the immune system and the lungs, respectively, we performed RNA sequencing of the macrophage-like cell line after exposure for 6, 12, and 24 h. Downstream analysis of the transcriptomics data revealed significant effects on chemokine signaling pathways. CCR2 was identified as the most significantly upregulated gene in MWCNT-exposed cells. Using multiplex assays to evaluate cytokine and chemokine secretion, we could show significant effects of MWCNTs on several chemokines, including CCL2, a ligand of CCR2. The results demonstrate the importance of evaluating sub-lethal concentrations of nanomaterials in relevant target cells.
Association of Adherence to the Mediterranean-Style Diet with Lower Frailty Index in Older Adults
Authors: Tanaka Toshiko , Talegawkar Sameera A. , Jin Yichen , Bandinelli Stephania , Ferrucci Luigi
Published: March 2021

Identifying modifying protective factors to promote healthy aging is of utmost public health importance. The frailty index (FI) reflects the accumulation of health deficits and is one widely used method to assess health trajectories in aging. Adherence to a Mediterranean-type diet (MTD) has been associated with favorable health trajectories. Therefore, this study explored whether adherence to a MTD is negatively associated with FI in the InCHIANTI study. Participants (n = 485) included individuals over 65 years of age at baseline with complete data over a follow-up period of 10 years. MTD was computed on a scale of 0–9 and categorized based on these scores into three groups of low (≤3), medium (4–5), and high (≥6) adherence. Being in a high or medium adherence group was associated with 0.03 and 0.013 unit lower FI scores over the follow-up period, compared to the low adherence group. In participants with a low FI at baseline, being in a high or medium MTD-adherence group had 0.004 and 0.005 unit/year slower progression of FI compared to the low adherence group. These study results support adherence to a MTD as a protective strategy to maintain a lower FI.
Nutritional Interventions in Children with Brain Injuries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Colonetti Tamy , Uggioni Maria Laura R. , Ferraz Sarah D. , Rocha Marina C. , Cruz Mateus V. , Rosa Maria Inês da , Grande Antonio J.
Published: March 2021

Background: Brain injury has several consequences throughout life, its increased incidence has caused great public concern. The aim was identifying the main nutritional therapies recommended for children with brain injuries. Methods: A systematic review was carried out using the terms in the search strategy: “Brain Injuries”, “Nutrition Therapy”, and “Child” and their synonyms, from database inception up to August 2020. The search was conducted in the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane library, LILACS, and grey literature. Two reviewers independently selected the included studies, according to the eligibility criteria and extracted data from the included articles. Results: A total of 1196 studies resulted from electronic searches, and out of these, 27 studies were read in full and eight studies were included. For early enteral nutritional support (<48 h), results suggest benefit in increasing survival rates. Type of dietary protein seems to be related to decreasing gastric emptying by 40%. The use of fibers seems to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort and increase stool frequency. Conclusions: The evidence mapped was extracted from small studies analyzing different outcomes, so any decision making should be analyzed considering the context. We present the direction of the effect, but the magnitude is still unclear.
Peripancreatic Adipose Tissue Remodeling and Inflammation during High Fat Intake of Palm Oils or Lard in Rats
Authors: Laget Jonas , Djohan Youzan Ferdinand , Jeanson Laura , Muyor Karen , Badia Eric , Cristol Jean Paul , Coudray Charles , Feillet-Coudray Christine , Vigor Claire , Oger Camille , Galano Jean-Marie , Durand Thierry , Lajoix Anne-Dominique , Gayrard Nathalie , Jover Bernard
Published: March 2021

Excessive fat consumption leads to the development of ectopic adipose tissues, affecting the organs they surround. Peripancreatic adipose tissue is implicated in glucose homeostasis regulation and can be impaired in obesity. High palm oil consumption’s effects on health are still debated. We hypothesised that crude and refined palm oil high-fat feeding may have contrasting effects on peripancreatic adipocyte hypertrophy, inflammation and lipid oxidation compound production in obese rats. In Wistar rats, morphological changes, inflammation and isoprostanoid production following oxidative stress were assessed in peripancreatic adipose tissue after 12 weeks of diets enriched in crude or refined palm oil or lard (56% energy from fat in each case) versus a standard chow diet (11% energy from fat). Epididymal white and periaortic brown adipose tissues were also included in the study. A refined palm oil diet disturbed glucose homeostasis and promoted lipid deposition in periaortic locations, as well as adipocyte hypertrophy, macrophage infiltration and isoprostanoid (5-F2c-isoprostane and 7(RS)-ST-Δ8-11-dihomo-isofuran) production in peripancreatic adipose tissue. Crude palm oil induced a lower impact on adipose deposits than its refined form and lard. Our results show that the antioxidant composition of crude palm oil may have a protective effect on ectopic adipose tissues under the condition of excessive fat intake.
The IHAT-GUT Iron Supplementation Trial in Rural Gambia: Barriers, Facilitators, and Benefits
Authors: Stelle Isabella , McDonagh Lorraine K. , Hossain Ilias , Kalea Anastasia Z. , Pereira Dora I. A.
Published: March 2021

Introduction: In most sub-Saharan African countries iron deficiency anaemia remains highly prevalent in children and this has not changed in the last 25 years. Supplementation with iron hydroxide adipate tartrate (IHAT) was being investigated in anaemic children in a phase two clinical trial (termed IHAT-GUT), conducted at the Medical Research Council Unit the Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) (abbreviated as MRCG hereof). This qualitative study aimed to explore the personal perceptions of the trial staff in relation to conducting a clinical trial in such settings in order to highlight the health system specific needs and strengths in the rural, resource-poor setting of the Upper River Region in the Gambia. Methods: Individual interviews (n = 17) were conducted with local trial staff of the IHAT-GUT trial. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Potential barriers and facilitators to conducting this clinical trial were identified at the patient, staff, and trial management levels. Several challenges, such as the rural location and cultural context, were identified but noted as not being long-term inhibitors. Participants believed the facilitators and benefits outnumbered the barriers, and included the impact on education and healthcare, the ambitious and knowledgeable locally recruited staff, and the local partnership. Conclusions: While facilitators and barriers were identified to conducting this clinical trial in a rural, resource-poor setting, the overall impact was perceived as beneficial, and this study is a useful example of community involvement and partnership for further health improvement programs. To effectively implement a nutrition intervention, the local health systems and context must be carefully considered through qualitative research beforehand.
Studies on Surfactants, Cosurfactants, and Oils for Prospective Use in Formulation of Ketorolac Tromethamine Ophthalmic Nanoemulsions
Authors: Smail Shahla S. , Ghareeb Mowafaq M. , Omer Huner K. , Al-Kinani Ali A. , Alany Raid G.
Published: March 2021

Nanoemulsions (NE) are isotropic, dispersions of oil, water, surfactant(s) and cosurfactant(s). A range of components (11 surfactants, nine cosurfactants, and five oils) were investigated as potential excipients for preparation of ketorolac tromethamine (KT) ocular nanoemulsion. Diol cosurfactants were investigated for the effect of their carbon chain length and dielectric constant (DEC), Log P, and HLB on saturation solubility of KT. Hen’s Egg Test—ChorioAllantoic Membrane (HET-CAM) assay was used to evaluate conjunctival irritation of selected excipients. Of the investigated surfactants, Tween 60 achieved the highest KT solubility (9.89 ± 0.17 mg/mL), followed by Cremophor RH 40 (9.00 ± 0.21 mg/mL); amongst cosurfactants of interest ethylene glycol yielded the highest KT solubility (36.84 ± 0.40 mg/mL), followed by propylene glycol (26.23 ± 0.82 mg/mL). The solubility of KT in cosurfactants was affected by four molecular descriptors: carbon chain length, DEC, log P and HLB. KT solubility was directly proportional to DEC and the HLB yet, inversely proportional to carbon chain length and log P. All surfactants, except Labrasol ALF, were non-irritant. The majority of cosurfactants were slightly irritant, butylene glycol was a moderate irritant, pentylene and hexylene glycols were strong irritants. These findings will inform experiments aimed at developing NE formulations for ocular administration of KT.
An Investigation into Mechanical Properties and Printability of Potential Substrates for Inkjet Printing of Orodispersible Films
Authors: Turković Erna , Vasiljević Ivana , Drašković Milica , Obradović Nataša , Vasiljević Dragana , Parojčić Jelena
Published: March 2021

Inkjet printing is novel approach in drug manufacturing that enables dispensing precise volumes of ink onto substrates. Optimal substrate properties including suitable mechanical characteristic are recognized as crucial to achieve desired dosage form performance upon administration. Identification of relevant quality attributes and their quantification is subject of intensive scientific research. The aim of this work was to explore applicability of different materials as printing substrates and explore contribution of the investigated substrate properties to its printability. Substrates were characterized with regards to uniformity, porosity, disintegration time, mechanical properties and drug dissolution. Experimentally obtained values were mathematically transformed and the obtained results were presented as relevant radar charts. It was shown that structurally different substrates may be employed for orodispersible films inkjet printing. Main disadvantage of single-polymer films was low drug load, and their printability was dependent on film flexibility and mechanical strength. Structured orodispersible film templates exhibited favorable mechanical properties and drug load capacity. Wafer edible sheets were characterized with high mechanical resistance and brittleness which somewhat diminished printability, but did not hinder high drug load. Obtained results provide insight into application of different materials as printing substrates and contribute to understanding of substrate properties which can affect printability.
Erratum: Yuan, W., et al. Genome-Wide Identification of Banana Csl Gene Family and Their Different Responses to Low Temperature between Chilling-Sensitive and Tolerant Cultivars. Plants 2021, 10, 122
Authors: Yuan Weina , Liu Jing , Takáč Tomáš , Chen Houbin , Li Xiaoquan , Meng Jian , Tan Yehuan , Ning Tong , He Zhenting , Yi Ganjun , Xu Chunxiang
Published: March 2021

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Single-Molecule Long-Read Sequencing of Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) and Differential Gene Expression Related with Biosynthesis of Unsaturated Fatty Acids
Authors: Du Hongmei , Zaman Shah , Hu Shuiqingqing , Che Shengquan
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to obtain the full-length transcriptome of purslane (Portulaca oleracea); assorted plant samples were used for single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing. Based on SMRT, functional annotation of transcripts, transcript factors (TFs) analysis, simple sequence repeat analysis and long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) prediction were accomplished. Total 15.33-GB reads were produced; with 9,350,222 subreads and the average length of subreads, 1640 bp was counted. With 99.99% accuracy, after clustering, 132,536 transcripts and 78,559 genes were detected. All unique SMART transcripts were annotated in seven functional databases. 4180 TFs (including transcript regulators) and 7289 LncRNAs were predicted. The results of RNA-seq were confirmed with qRT–PCR analysis. Illumina sequencing of leaves and roots of two purslane genotypes was carried out. Amounts of differential expression genes and related KEGG pathways were found. The expression profiles of related genes in the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids pathway in leaves and roots of two genotypes of purslane were analyzed. Differential expression of genes in this pathway built the foundation of ω-3 fatty acid accumulation in different organs and genotypes of purslane. The aforementioned results provide sequence information and may be a valuable resource for whole-genome sequencing of purslane in the future.
Characterization of the Genetic Diversity Present in a Diverse Sesame Landrace Collection Based on Phenotypic Traits and EST-SSR Markers Coupled With an HRM Analysis
Authors: Stavridou Evangelia , Lagiotis Georgios , Kalaitzidou Parthena , Grigoriadis Ioannis , Bosmali Irini , Tsaliki Eleni , Tsiotsiou Stiliani , Kalivas Apostolos , Ganopoulos Ioannis , Madesis Panagiotis
Published: March 2021

A selection of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) landraces of different eco-geographical origin and breeding history have been characterized using 28 qualitative morpho-physiological descriptors and seven expressed sequence tag-simple sequence repeat (EST-SSR) markers coupled with a high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis. The most variable qualitative traits that could efficiently discriminate landraces, as revealed by the correlation analyses, were the plant growth type and position of the branches, leaf blade width, stem pubescence, flowering initiation, capsule traits and seed coat texture. The agglomerative hierarchical clustering analysis based on a dissimilarity matrix highlighted three main groups among the sesame landraces. An EST-SSR marker analysis revealed an average polymorphism information content (PIC) value of 0.82, which indicated that the selected markers were highly polymorphic. A principal coordinate analysis and dendrogram reconstruction based on the molecular data classified the sesame genotypes into four major clades. Both the morpho-physiological and molecular analyses showed that landraces from the same geographical origin were not always grouped in the same cluster, forming heterotic groups; however, clustering patterns were observed for the Greek landraces. The selective breeding of such traits could be employed to unlock the bottleneck of local phenotypic diversity and create new cultivars with desirable traits.
Development of a Methodology for Maintenance of Medicinal Plant Genetic Reserve Sites: A Case Study for Lithuania
Authors: Labokas Juozas , Karpavičienė Birutė
Published: March 2021

In the context of climate change, in situ conservation of plant genetic resources is becoming increasingly important as it supports natural (ecological and evolutionary) adaptations of plants to the changing environment. The aim of this study was to synthesize a comprehensive general methodology for the maintenance of genetic reserve sites of medicinal plants based on the analysis of relevant legal documents, literature sources, databases, and authors’ own experience. A methodology was developed for the application of various maintenance measures for target species populations in genetic reserve sites to ensure their long-term sustainability. It uses a systematic approach to the intervention measures by grouping them into habitat-specific and factor-specific ones, and follows the specific principles of biodiversity conservation, such as the concept of ecosystem, priority of in situ conservation, caution and validity of decision-making, and regional approach. An extensive discussion on major intervention measures is provided. The methodology is intended to be used as a tool for the preparation and implementation of management plans of individual medicinal plant genetic reserve sites by the responsible agencies and protected area managers and is directly linked to the implementation of the EU (European Union) Biodiversity Strategy to 2030 at the national level.