bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructural Evolution of a High-Strength Zr-Ti-Modified 2139 Aluminum Alloy for Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Larini Federico , Casati Riccardo , Marola Silvia , Vedani Maurizio
Published: May 2023

The demand for high-performance aluminum components drives research into the design of novel alloys that can be processed by laser-based additive manufacturing. In recent years, the addition of grain refiners proved to be an effective strategy to reduce the hot-cracking of high-strength Al alloys. In this study, the solidification and aging behavior of an Al2139 alloy doped with additions of Zr and Ti for L-PBF was investigated. These elements favored the formation of a fine-grained structure free of cracks. The formation of Al3(Zr,Ti) inoculants was predicted by Scheil simulations and observed as cuboidal particles in the center of α-Al grains. The microstructure of the as-built material featured fine and fully equiaxed grains, which appeared comparatively finer at the edge (300–600 nm) and coarser (0.8–2.0 μm) at the center of the molten pools. In both cases, there was evidence of Cu and Mg micro-segregations at the grain boundaries. The microhardness of 109.7 HV0.5 in the as-built state was increased to 186.1 HV0.5 after optimized T4 heat treatment, responsible for the precipitation of many rod-shaped Zr- and Ti-based second phases and quasi-spherical Cu-, Mn-, and Fe-rich particles. Prolonged exposure carried out to simulate high-temperature service caused a drop in microhardness and marked modification of the microstructure, evidenced by the rearrangement and subsequent spheroidization of Cu- and Mg-rich particles at the grain boundaries.
Identification of Novel Biomarkers in Late Preterm Neonates with Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) Using Urinary Metabolomic Analysis
Authors: Christopoulou Irene , Kostopoulou Eirini , Matzarapi Konstantina , Chasapi Styliani A. , Spyroulias Georgios A. , Varvarigou Anastasia
Published: May 2023

Urine metabolomics is gaining traction as a means of identifying metabolic signatures associated with health and disease states. Thirty-one (31) late preterm (LP) neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and 23 age-matched healthy LPs admitted to the maternity ward of a tertiary hospital were included in the study. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy was employed for urine metabolomic analysis on the 1st and 3rd days of life of the neonates. The data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate statistical analysis. A unique metabolic pattern of enhanced metabolites was identified in the NICU-admitted LPs from the 1st day of life. Metabolic profiles were distinct in LPs presenting with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). The discrepancies likely reflect differences in the gut microbiota, either due to variations in nutrient intake or as a result of medical interventions, such as the administration of antibiotics and other medications. Altered metabolites could potentially serve as biomarkers for identifying critically ill LP neonates or those at high risk for adverse outcomes later in life, including metabolic risks. The discovery of novel biomarkers may uncover potential targets for drug discovery and optimal periods for effective intervention, offering a personalized approach.
High-Intensity Interval Training Induces Protein Lactylation in Different Tissues of Mice with Specificity and Time Dependence
Authors: Huang Wenhua , Su Jie , Chen Xuefei , Li Yanjun , Xing Zheng , Guo Lanlan , Li Shitian , Zhang Jing
Published: May 2023

Protein lysine lactylation (Kla) is a novel protein acylation reported in recent years, which plays an important role in the development of several diseases with pathologically elevated lactate levels, such as tumors. The concentration of lactate as a donor is directly related to the Kla level. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a workout pattern that has positive effects in many metabolic diseases, but the mechanisms by which HIIT promotes health are not yet clear. Lactate is the main metabolite of HIIT, and it is unknown as to whether high lactate during HIIT can induce changes in Kla levels, as well as whether Kla levels differ in different tissues and how time-dependent Kla levels are. In this study, we observed the specificity and time-dependent effects of a single HIIT on the regulation of Kla in mouse tissues. In addition, we aimed to select tissues with high Kla specificity and obvious time dependence for lactylation quantitative omics and analyze the possible biological targets of HIIT-induced Kla regulation. A single HIIT induces Kla in tissues with high lactate uptake and metabolism, such as iWAT, BAT, soleus muscle and liver proteins, and Kla levels peak at 24 h after HIIT and return to steady state at 72 h. Kla proteins in iWAT may affect pathways related to glycolipid metabolism and are highly associated with de novo synthesis. It is speculated that the changes in energy expenditure, lipolytic effects and metabolic characteristics during the recovery period after HIIT may be related to the regulation of Kla in iWAT.
Untargeted UHPLC-TOF/MS Lipidomic Analysis for the Investigation of Egg Yolks after Xylanase Supplementation of the Diet of Laying Hens
Authors: Lioupi Artemis , Papadopoulos Georgios A. , Gallou Domniki , Virgiliou Christina , Arsenos Georgios I. , Fortomaris Paschalis , Van Hoeck Veerle , Morisset Dany , Theodoridis Georgios
Published: May 2023

Xylanase supplementation of diets is used to enhance nutrient digestibility in monogastrics which lack necessary enzymes for non-starch polysaccharide degradation. The effects of enzymatic treatment in the nutritional value of the feed are typically not comprehensively studied. Though the fundamental effects of xylanase on performance are well studied, limited data is available on the complex interactions between xylanase supplementation and hen physiology; therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a new, simple UPLC-TOF/MS lipidomics method for the analysis of hen egg yolks after supplementation with different amounts of xylanase. Sample preparation for the extraction of lipids was optimized and different sample preparation modes and solvent mixtures were tested. Optimal results for the extraction of total lipids were obtained by using the solvent mixture MTBE: MeOH (5:1, v/v). Multivariate statistical analysis of the signals of hundreds of lipids in positive and negative ionisation modes highlighted differences in several egg yolk lipid species-classes. Four lipid species-classes, phosphatidylcholines (PC and PC O), phosphatidylethanolamines (PE and PE O), phosphatidylinositols (PI), and fatty acids (FA), were among those contributing to the separation of the experimental groups (control-treated) in negative ionisation mode. In positive ionisation mode, principal beneficial lipid compounds such as phosphatidylcholines (PC and PC O), phosphatidylethanolamines (PE and PE O), triacylglycerols (TG), diacylglycerols (DG), and ceramides (Cer) were found to be increased in treated groups. Overall, supplementation of laying hens’ diets with xylanase significantly changed the lipid profile of egg yolks compared to the control diet. The association between the lipid profiles of egg yolks and hens’ diets, as well as the underlying mechanisms, require further investigation. These findings are of practical significance for the food industry.
Assessment of Winter Urban Heat Island in Ljubljana, Slovenia
Authors: Ogrin Matej , Svetlin Domen , Stefanovski Sašo , Lampič Barbara
Published: May 2023

Although the urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon is more commonly studied in summer, its influence is also important in winter. In this study, the authors focused on the winter UHI in Ljubljana (Slovenia) and its impact on the urban population, as well as in comparison with a UHI study from 2000. Through a combination of mobile and stationary temperature measurements in different parts of the city, the winter intensity of the UHI in Ljubljana was studied in a dense spatial network of measurements. It was found that the intensity of the winter UHI in Ljubljana decreases as winters become warmer and less snowy. The results showed that the winter UHI in Ljubljana intensifies during the night and reaches the greatest intensity at sunrise. During the winter radiation type of weather, the warmest part of Ljubljana reaches an intensity of 3.5 °C in the evening. In total, 22% of the urban area is in the evening UHI intensity range of 2–4 °C, and 65% of the urban population lives in this range. In the morning, the UHI in Ljubljana has a maximum intensity of 5 °C. The area of >4 °C UHI intensity covers 7% of the urban area, and 28% of the total urban population lives in this area. Higher temperatures in urban centers in winter lead to a longer growing season, fewer snow cover days, lower energy consumption and cold stress, and lower mortality from cold-related diseases compared to the colder periphery.
Simulation and Experimental Validation of a Pressurized Filling Method for Neutron Absorption Grating
Authors: Han Eryong , Zhang Kuanqiang , Chen Lijuan , Guo Chenfei , Xiong Ying , Guan Yong , Tian Yangchao , Liu Gang
Published: May 2023

The absorption grating is a critical component of neutron phase contrast imaging technology, and its quality directly influences the sensitivity of the imaging system. Gadolinium (Gd) is a preferred neutron absorption material due to its high absorption coefficient, but its use in micro-nanofabrication poses significant challenges. In this study, we employed the particle filling method to fabricate neutron absorption gratings, and a pressurized filling method was introduced to enhance the filling rate. The filling rate was determined by the pressure on the surface of the particles, and the results demonstrate that the pressurized filling method can significantly increase the filling rate. Meanwhile, we investigated the effects of different pressures, groove widths, and Young’s modulus of the material on the particle filling rate through simulations. The results indicate that higher pressure and wider grating grooves lead to a significant increase in particle filling rate, and the pressurized filling method can be utilized to fabricate large-size grating and produce uniformly filled absorption gratings. To further improve the efficiency of the pressurized filling method, we proposed a process optimization approach, resulting in a significant improvement in the fabrication efficiency.
Biaxial Piezoelectric MEMS Mirrors with Low Absorption Coating for 1550 nm Long-Range LIDAR
Authors: Mollard L. , Riu J. , Royo S. , Dieppedale C. , Hamelin A. , Koumela A. , Verdot T. , Frey L. , Le Rhun G. , Castellan G. , Licitra C.
Published: May 2023

This paper presents the fabrication and characterization of a biaxial MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical System) scanner based on PZT (Lead Zirconate Titanate) which incorporates a low-absorption dielectric multilayer coating, i.e., a Bragg reflector. These 2 mm square MEMS mirrors, developed on 8-inch silicon wafers using VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) technology are intended for long-range (>100 m) LIDAR (LIght Detection And Ranging) applications using a 2 W (average power) pulsed laser at 1550 nm. For this laser power, the use of a standard metal reflector leads to damaging overheating. To solve this problem, we have developed and optimised a physical sputtering (PVD) Bragg reflector deposition process compatible with our sol-gel piezoelectric motor. Experimental absorption measurements, performed at 1550 nm and show up to 24 times lower incident power absorption than the best metallic reflective coating (Au). Furthermore, we validated that the characteristics of the PZT, as well as the performance of the Bragg mirrors in terms of optical scanning angles, were identical to those of the Au reflector. These results open up the possibility of increasing the laser power beyond 2W for LIDAR applications or other applications requiring high optical power. Finally, a packaged 2D scanner was integrated into a LIDAR system and three-dimensional point cloud images were obtained, demonstrating the scanning stability and operability of these 2D MEMS mirrors.
MALDI-TOF MS Approaches for the Identification of the Susceptibility of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamases in Escherichia coli
Authors: Matsumura Yuriko , Ikegaya Kazuko
Published: May 2023

The increase in multidrug-resistant microorganisms that produce extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemases is a serious problem worldwide. Recently, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has been used for the rapid detection of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The objective of this study was to establish a method to detect ESBL-producing Escherichia coli by monitoring the hydrolyzation of cefotaxime (CTX) using MALDI-TOF MS. According to the ratio of the peak intensity of CTX and hydrolyzed-CTX-related compounds, the ESBL-producing strains could be clearly distinguished after 15 min of incubation. Moreover, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for E. coli were 8 μg/mL and lower than 4 μg/mL, which could be distinguished after 30 min and 60 min of incubation, respectively. The enzymatic activity was determined using the difference in the signal intensity of the hydrolyzed CTX at 370 Da for the ESBL-producing strains incubated with or without clavulanate. The ESBL-producing strains with low enzymatic activity or blaCTX-M genes could be detected by monitoring the hydrolyzed CTX. These results show that this method can rapidly detect high-sensitivity ESBL-producing E. coli.
Metabolic Engineering of Model Microorganisms for the Production of Xanthophyll
Authors: Wang Nan , Peng Huakang , Yang Caifeng , Guo Wenfang , Wang Mengqi , Li Gangqiang , Liu Dehu
Published: May 2023

Xanthophyll is an oxidated version of carotenoid. It presents significant value to the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries due to its specific antioxidant activity and variety of colors. Chemical processing and conventional extraction from natural organisms are still the main sources of xanthophyll. However, the current industrial production model can no longer meet the demand for human health care, reducing petrochemical energy consumption and green sustainable development. With the swift development of genetic metabolic engineering, xanthophyll synthesis by the metabolic engineering of model microorganisms shows great application potential. At present, compared to carotenes such as lycopene and β-carotene, xanthophyll has a relatively low production in engineering microorganisms due to its stronger inherent antioxidation, relatively high polarity, and longer metabolic pathway. This review comprehensively summarized the progress in xanthophyll synthesis by the metabolic engineering of model microorganisms, described strategies to improve xanthophyll production in detail, and proposed the current challenges and future efforts needed to build commercialized xanthophyll-producing microorganisms.
Towards the Chemical Analysis of Diatoms’ Silicon Storage Pools: A Differential Centrifugation-Based Separation Approach
Authors: Reichelt Tobias , Bode Tobias , Jordan Paul-Felix , Brunner Eike
Published: May 2023

Diatoms are unicellular algae and occur ubiquitously in almost every marine and freshwater habitat on earth. They produce intricately structured cell walls, which mainly consist of amorphous silica. To synthesize their cell walls, diatoms take up monosilicic acid from the environment and store it. These silicon storage pools (SSPs) can exceed the solubility of silicic acid by one to two orders of magnitude, as observed in various diatom species. However, their chemical composition and cellular localization has not yet been elucidated. It is suggested that SSPs may consist of stabilized aggregates such as pre-condensed silica particles or silica-containing vesicles. Isolation protocols for SSPs without significant chemical modification are required to prove such hypotheses. A critical issue is the efficient separation of components of the SSPs from cell wall fragments or artefacts, which may interfere with analytical methods targeting silicon. To this end, a comparative study was performed on exponentially grown cells and extracted, purified cell walls (biosilica) to observe the sedimentation behavior after lysis. Cell cultures were lysed by bead beating and then fractionated by differential centrifugation. The obtained fractions were analyzed for total silicon content (tSi) using molybdenum blue assay (MBA) after alkaline treatment. It was revealed that cell wall fragments are almost absent in fractions above 1000 × g. Compared with biosilica, a significantly higher silicon concentration is found in lysed cell pellets after centrifugation at moderately high forces. The differences correspond to a few percent of total cellular silicon, which are assumed to be part of SSPs. Only relatively low amounts of silica/silicic acid remain in the supernatant at high centrifugal forces. This indicates that SSPs are mainly present in larger aggregates that sediment at lower centrifugal forces. According to Stokes’ law, only silica particles below ca. 25 nm radius would remain in the final supernatant. This leads to the conclusion that SSPs must mainly consist of larger silica particles and/or are associated with larger compartments/aggregates.
Modeling Fretting Wear Resistance and Shakedown of Metallic Materials with Graded Nanostructured Surfaces
Authors: Yang Ting , Venkatesh T. A. , Dao Ming
Published: May 2023

In applications involving fretting wear damage, surfaces with high yield strength and wear resistance are required. In this study, the mechanical responses of materials with graded nanostructured surfaces during fretting sliding are investigated and compared to homogeneous materials through a systematic computational study. A three-dimensional finite element model is developed to characterize the fretting sliding characteristics and shakedown behavior with varying degrees of contact friction and gradient layer thicknesses. Results obtained using a representative model material (i.e., 304 stainless steel) demonstrate that metallic materials with a graded nanostructured surface could exhibit a more than 80% reduction in plastically deformed surface areas and volumes, resulting in superior fretting damage resistance in comparison to homogeneous coarse-grained metals. In particular, a graded nanostructured material can exhibit elastic or plastic shakedown, depending on the contact friction coefficient. Optimal fretting resistance can be achieved for the graded nanostructured material by decreasing the friction coefficient (e.g., from 0.6 to 0.4 in 304 stainless steel), resulting in an elastic shakedown behavior, where the plastically deformed volume and area exhibit zero increment in the accumulated plastic strain during further sliding. These findings in the graded nanostructured materials using 304 stainless steel as a model system can be further tailored for engineering optimal fretting damage resistance.
Shaping Silver Nanoparticles’ Size through the Carrier Composition: Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Cacaci Margherita , Biagiotti Giacomo , Toniolo Gianluca , Albino Martin , Sangregorio Claudio , Severi Mirko , Di Vito Maura , Squitieri Damiano , Contiero Luca , Paggi Marco , Marelli Marcello , Cicchi Stefano , Bugli Francesca , Richichi Barbara
Published: May 2023

The increasing resistance of bacteria to conventional antibiotics represents a severe global emergency for human health. The broad-spectrum antibacterial activity of silver has been known for a long time, and silver at the nanoscale shows enhanced antibacterial activity. This has prompted research into the development of silver-based nanomaterials for applications in clinical settings. In this work, the synthesis of three different silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) hybrids using both organic and inorganic supports with intrinsic antibacterial properties is described. The tuning of the AgNPs’ shape and size according to the type of bioactive support was also investigated. Specifically, the commercially available sulfated cellulose nanocrystal (CNC), the salicylic acid functionalized reduced graphene oxide (rGO-SA), and the commercially available titanium dioxide (TiO2) were chosen as organic (CNC, rGO-SA) and inorganic (TiO2) supports. Then, the antimicrobial activity of the AgNP composites was assessed on clinically relevant multi-drug-resistant bacteria and the fungus Candida albicans. The results show how the formation of Ag nanoparticles on the selected supports provides the resulting composite materials with an effective antibacterial activity.
Low-Temperature Fluoro-Borosilicate Glass for Controllable Nano-Crystallization in Glass Ceramic Fibers
Authors: Zhao Qichao , Li Jianfeng , Zha Tingyu , Zhang Penghui , Long Yi , Fang Zaijin
Published: May 2023

A fluorosilicate (FS) nano-crystallized glass ceramic (NGC) is one of the most commonly used gain materials for applications in optical devices due to its excellent thermal stability as well as high-efficiency luminescence. However, FS glass can hardly be used to prepare NGC fibers due to its high preparation temperature. Here, a series of low-temperature fluoro-borosilicate (FBS) glasses were designed for the fabrication of active NGC fibers. By modulating B2O3, the preparation temperature of FBS glass was reduced to 1050 °C, and the crystallization in FBS NGCs was more controllable than in FS NGC. The crystallization of the impure phase was inhibited, and single-phase rare earth (RE)-fluoride nanocrystals were controllably precipitated in the FBS NGCs. The 40Si-20B FBS NGC not only exhibited a higher optical transmittance, but the luminescence efficiency was also much higher than traditional FS NGCs. More importantly, NGC fibers were successfully fabricated by using the designed FBS glass as core glass. Nanocrystals were controllably precipitated and greatly enhanced, and upconversion luminescence was observed in NGC fibers. The designed FBS NGCs provided high-quality optical gain materials and offered opportunities for fabricating a wide range of NGC fibers for multiple future applications, including fiber lasers and sensors.
Cu@Fe-Redox Capacitive-Based Metal–Organic Framework Film for a High-Performance Supercapacitor Electrode
Authors: Patil Supriya A. , Katkar Pranav K. , Kaseem Mosab , Nazir Ghazanfar , Lee Sang-Wha , Patil Harshada , Kim Honggyun , Magotra Verjesh Kumar , Thi Hoa Bui , Im Hyunsik , Shrestha Nabeen K.
Published: May 2023

A metal–organic framework (MOF) is a highly porous material with abundant redox capacitive sites for intercalation/de-intercalation of charges and, hence, is considered promising for electrode materials in supercapacitors. In addition, dopants can introduce defects and alter the electronic structure of the MOF, which can affect its surface reactivity and electrochemical properties. Herein, we report a copper-doped iron-based MOF (Cu@Fe-MOF/NF) thin film obtained via a simple drop-cast route on a 3D-nickel foam (NF) substrate for the supercapacitor application. The as-deposited Cu@Fe-MOF/NF electrodes exhibit a unique micro-sized bipyramidal structure composited with nanoparticles, revealing a high specific capacitance of 420.54 F g−1 at 3 A g−1 which is twice compared to the nano-cuboidal Fe-MOF/NF (210 F g−1). Furthermore, the asymmetric solid-state (ASSSC) supercapacitor device, derived from the assembly of Cu@Fe-MOF/NFǁrGO/NF electrodes, demonstrates superior performance in terms of energy density (44.20 Wh.kg−1) and electrochemical charge–discharge cycling durability with 88% capacitance retention after 5000 cycles. This work, thus, demonstrates a high potentiality of the Cu@Fe-MOF/NF film electrodes in electrochemical energy-storing devices.
Biodegradable Microrobots and Their Biomedical Applications: A Review
Authors: Li Jinxin , Yu Jiangfan
Published: May 2023

During recent years, microrobots have drawn extensive attention owing to their good controllability and great potential in biomedicine. Powered by external physical fields or chemical reactions, these untethered microdevices are promising candidates for in vivo complex tasks, such as targeted delivery, imaging and sensing, tissue engineering, hyperthermia, and assisted fertilization, among others. However, in clinical use, the biodegradability of microrobots is significant for avoiding toxic residue in the human body. The selection of biodegradable materials and the corresponding in vivo environment needed for degradation are increasingly receiving attention in this regard. This review aims at analyzing different types of biodegradable microrobots by critically discussing their advantages and limitations. The chemical degradation mechanisms behind biodegradable microrobots and their typical applications are also thoroughly investigated. Furthermore, we examine their feasibility and deal with the in vivo suitability of different biodegradable microrobots in terms of their degradation mechanisms; pathological environments; and corresponding biomedical applications, especially targeted delivery. Ultimately, we highlight the prevailing obstacles and perspective solutions, ranging from their manufacturing methods, control of movement, and degradation rate to insufficient and limited in vivo tests, that could be of benefit to forthcoming clinical applications.
TAO-DFT with the Polarizable Continuum Model
Authors: Seenithurai Sonai , Chai Jeng-Da
Published: May 2023

For the ground-state properties of gas-phase nanomolecules with multi-reference character, thermally assisted occupation (TAO) density functional theory (DFT) has recently been found to outperform the widely used Kohn–Sham DFT when traditional exchange-correlation energy functionals are employed. Aiming to explore solvation effects on the ground-state properties of nanomolecules with multi-reference character at a minimal computational cost, we combined TAO-DFT with the PCM (polarizable continuum model). In order to show its usefulness, TAO-DFT-based PCM (TAO-PCM) was used to predict the electronic properties of linear acenes in three different solvents (toluene, chlorobenzene, and water). According to TAO-PCM, in the presence of these solvents, the smaller acenes should have nonradical character, and the larger ones should have increasing polyradical character, revealing striking similarities to the past findings in the gas phase.
UV-Nanoimprint Lithography for Predefined SERS Nanopatterns Which Are Reproducible at Low Cost and High Throughput
Authors: Milenko Karolina , Dullo Firehun Tsige , Thrane Paul C. V. , Skokic Zeljko , Dirdal Christopher A.
Published: May 2023

A controlled and reliable nanostructured metallic substrate is a prerequisite for developing effective surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy techniques. In this study, we present a novel SERS platform fabricated using ultra-violet nanoimprint lithography (UV-NIL) to produce large-area, ordered nanostructured arrays. By using UV-NIL imprinted patterns in resist, we were able to overcome the main limitations present in most common SERS platforms, such as nonuniformity, nonreproducibility, low throughput, and high cost. We simulated and fabricated C-shaped plasmonic nanostructures that exhibit high signal enhancement at an excitation wavelength of 785 nm. The substrates were fabricated by directly coating the imprinted resist with a thin gold layer. Avoiding the need to etch patterns in silicon significantly reduces the time and cost of fabrication and facilitates reproducibility. The functionality of the substrates for SERS detection was validated by measuring the SERS spectra of Rhodamine 6G.
Assessment of Nutritional Status and Health Perception among Male Inmates in Israeli Prisons
Authors: Aharon Shani Ben , Regev Ofer , Tesler Riki , Barak Sharon , Shapira Yair , Weiss Yossi , Shtainmetz Noa , Vaknin Yochanan , Goldstein Liav , Ben-Zvi Kathrine , Birk Ruth
Published: May 2023

The nutritional and health perceptions of inmates are crucial to their overall well-being. However, limited research has been conducted on this topic. This study aimed to assess the nutritional and health perception state of male inmates in eleven prisons in Israel. A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and September 2019 with 176 voluntary participants. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, healthy habits, subjective health status, and prison situation variables. The study found that the prevalence of overweight (40%) and obesity (18.1%) among 18–34-year-old inmates was significantly higher than in the reference Israeli population. Short detention periods (up to one year) predicted less weight gain, while older age predicted poorer health status. Better emotional status significantly predicted better subjective health status among male inmates. There is a need for nutrition interventions to improve the health of inmates. The significant weight gain during incarceration and the associated lower health index and stress highlights the importance of increasing knowledge and promoting a healthier lifestyle in incarceration as early as possible and continuing over time.
Creatine Supplementation Alleviates Fatigue after Exercise through Anti-Inflammatory Action in Skeletal Muscle and Brain
Authors: Yokota Yuma , Yamada Satoshi , Yamamoto Daisuke , Kato Keita , Morito Akihisa , Takaoka Akiko
Published: May 2023

Eccentric exercise induces muscle damage and inflammation, resulting in a state of reduced physical activity with muscle dysfunction and a feeling of tiredness after exercise. Creatine is known to act as an energy buffer, but it has also been suggested to exert inhibitory effects on muscle damage and peripheral inflammation. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that creatine supplementation alleviates fatigue after eccentric exercise and to explore the mechanism of this effect. C57BL/6J mice were fed an AIN-93G-formulated control diet or a creatine-containing diet for 6 days and were then subjected to downhill running, a model of eccentric exercise, to assess the effects on the total creatine concentrations in skeletal muscle and brain tissue, spontaneous activity, the urine concentration of titin N-fragment, and inflammatory gene expression. The results showed that creatine supplementation significantly increased the total creatine concentrations in skeletal muscle and brain tissue. Furthermore, spontaneous activity significantly decreased after downhill running and creatine supplementation maintained a significantly higher level of spontaneous activity. In addition, creatine supplementation significantly suppressed the downhill-running-induced increase in the mRNA expression of genes encoding ICAM-1, E-selectin, CD18, and BKB1R in the soleus muscle and IL-1β in the hypothalamus. On the other hand, creatine supplementation did not clearly influence the urine concentration of titin N-fragment. These results indicate that creatine supplementation may alleviate fatigue after eccentric exercise by partially suppressing inflammation in slow-twitch skeletal muscle and brain tissue.
Characterization of Schistosome Sox Genes and Identification of a Flatworm Class of Sox Regulators
Authors: Wood Stephanie , Ishida Kenji , Hagerty James R. , Karahodza Anida , Dennis Janay N. , Jolly Emmitt R.
Published: May 2023

Schistosome helminths infect over 200 million people across 78 countries and are responsible for nearly 300,000 deaths annually. However, our understanding of basic genetic pathways crucial for schistosome development is limited. The sex determining region Y-box 2 (Sox2) protein is a Sox B type transcriptional activator that is expressed prior to blastulation in mammals and is necessary for embryogenesis. Sox expression is associated with pluripotency and stem cells, neuronal differentiation, gut development, and cancer. Schistosomes express a Sox-like gene expressed in the schistosomula after infecting a mammalian host when schistosomes have about 900 cells. Here, we characterized and named this Sox-like gene SmSOXS1. SmSoxS1 protein is a developmentally regulated activator that localizes to the anterior and posterior ends of the schistosomula and binds to Sox-specific DNA elements. In addition to SmSoxS1, we have also identified an additional six Sox genes in schistosomes, two Sox B, one SoxC, and three Sox genes that may establish a flatworm-specific class of Sox genes with planarians. These data identify novel Sox genes in schistosomes to expand the potential functional roles for Sox2 and may provide interesting insights into early multicellular development of flatworms.
Identification of Pinosylvin in Pinus nigra subsp. laricio: A Naturally Occurring Stilbenoid Suppressing LPS-Induced Expression of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Mediators and Inhibiting the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway
Authors: Perri Maria Rosaria , Pellegrino Michele , Marrelli Mariangela , Aquaro Stefano , Cavaliere Fabiola , Grande Fedora , Occhiuzzi Maria Antonietta , Lupia Carmine , Toma Claudia-Crina , Conforti Filomena , Statti Giancarlo
Published: May 2023

Stilbenoids, a group of phytoalexin polyphenols produced by plants as a defence mechanism in response to stress conditions, are known for their anti-inflammatory potential. Pinosylvin, a naturally occurring molecule traditionally found in pinus trees, was here identified in Pinus nigra subsp. laricio var. calabrica from Southern Italy through HPLC analysis. Both this molecule and its well-known analogue resveratrol, the most famous wine polyphenol, were compared for their in vitro potential anti-inflammatory activity. Pinosylvin significantly inhibited the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) and NO mediator in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, its ability to inhibit the JAK/STAT signaling pathway was assessed: Western blot analyses showed a downregulation of both phosphorylated JAK2 and STAT3 proteins. Finally, in order to verify whether this biological activity could be attributed to a direct interaction of pinosylvin with JAK2, a molecular docking study was performed, confirming the capability of pinosylvin to bind the active site of the protein.
Discovery of Novel Thiophene/Hydrazones: In Vitro and In Silico Studies against Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Coskun Goknil Pelin , Ozhan Yagmur , Dobričić Vladimir , Bošković Jelena , Reis Rengin , Sipahi Hande , Sahin Zafer , Demirayak Seref
Published: May 2023

Cancer is the disease with the highest mortality. Drug studies contribute to promising treatments; however there is an urgent need for selective drug candidates. Pancreatic cancer is difficult to treat and the cancer progresses rapidly. Unfortunately, current treatments are ineffective. In this study, ten new diarylthiophene-2-carbohydrazide derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their pharmacological activity. The 2D and 3D anticancer activity studies suggested the compounds 7a, 7d, and 7f were promising. Among these, 7f (4.86 µM) showed the best 2D inhibitory activity against PaCa-2 cells. Compounds 7a, 7d and 7f were also tested for their cytotoxic effects on healthy cell line but only compound 7d showed selectivity. Compounds 7a, 7d, and 7f showed the best 3D cell line inhibitory effect according to spheroid diameters. The compounds were screened for their COX-2 and 5-LOX inhibitory activity. For COX-2, the best IC50 value was observed for 7c (10.13 µM) and all compounds showed significantly lower inhibition compared to standard. In the 5-LOX inhibition study, compounds 7a (3.78 µM), 7c (2.60 µM), 7e (3.3 µM), and 7f (2.94 µM) demonstrated influential activity compared to standard. Regarding molecular docking studies, binding mode of compounds 7c, 7e, and 7f to the 5-LOX enzyme were non-redox or redox types, but not the iron-binding type. As dual inhibitors of 5-LOX and pancreatic cancer cell line, 7a and 7f were identified as the most promising compounds.
Phytochemicals and Cancer Treatment: Cell-Derived and Biomimetic Vesicles as Promising Carriers
Authors: Baldassari Sara , Balboni Alice , Drava Giuliana , Donghia Daniela , Canepa Paolo , Ailuno Giorgia , Caviglioli Gabriele
Published: May 2023

The majority of anticancer agents currently used derive from natural sources: plants, frequently the ones employed in traditional medicines, are an abundant source of mono- and diterpenes, polyphenols, and alkaloids that exert antitumor activity through diverse mechanisms. Unfortunately, many of these molecules are affected by poor pharmacokinetics and limited specificity, shortcomings that may be overcome by incorporating them into nanovehicles. Cell-derived nanovesicles have recently risen to prominence, due to their biocompatibility, low immunogenicity and, above all, targeting properties. However, due to difficult scalability, the industrial production of biologically-derived vesicles and consequent application in clinics is difficult. As an efficient alternative, bioinspired vesicles deriving from the hybridization of cell-derived and artificial membranes have been conceived, revealing high flexibility and appropriate drug delivery ability. In this review, the most recent advances in the application of these vesicles to the targeted delivery of anticancer actives obtained from plants are presented, with specific focus on vehicle manufacture and characterization, and effectiveness evaluation performed through in vitro and in vivo assays. The emerging overall outlook appears promising in terms of efficient drug loading and selective targeting of tumor cells, suggesting further engrossing developments in the future.
Layer-by-Layer Nanoassemblies for Vaccination Purposes
Authors: Guzmán Eduardo , Ortega Francisco , Rubio Ramón G.
Published: May 2023

In recent years, the availability of effective vaccines has become a public health challenge due to the proliferation of different pandemic outbreaks which are a risk for the world population health. Therefore, the manufacturing of new formulations providing a robust immune response against specific diseases is of paramount importance. This can be partially faced by introducing vaccination systems based on nanostructured materials, and in particular, nanoassemblies obtained by the Layer-by-Layer (LbL) method. This has emerged, in recent years, as a very promising alternative for the design and optimization of effective vaccination platforms. In particular, the versatility and modularity of the LbL method provide very powerful tools for fabricating functional materials, opening new avenues on the design of different biomedical tools, including very specific vaccination platforms. Moreover, the possibility to control the shape, size, and chemical composition of the supramolecular nanoassemblies obtained by the LbL method offers new opportunities for manufacturing materials which can be administered following specific routes and present very specific targeting. Thus, it will be possible to increase the patient convenience and the efficacy of the vaccination programs. This review presents a general overview on the state of the art of the fabrication of vaccination platforms based on LbL materials, trying to highlight some important advantages offered by these systems.
Fractal Entropy of Nuclear Medium Probed by KS0 Mesons Produced in AuAu Collisions at RHIC
Authors: Tokarev Mikhail , Zborovský Imrich
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we review our findings concerning fractal entropy of microscopic configurations corresponding to the production of KS0 mesons in AuAu collisions in the z-scaling approach. The entropy is expressed via structural and fragmentation fractal dimensions, and model parameter cAuAu is interpreted as a specific heat of produced medium. These parameters are related to the respective momentum fractions of the colliding nuclei, the momentum fractions of the scattered constituents that fragment into the produced hadrons, and the multiplicity density of negative particles in the central interaction region. The dependence of the entropy on the collision energy over the range of 7.7–200 GeV for most central and most peripheral events is studied as a function of the transverse momentum of the produced KS0 mesons. A non-trivial dependence of the entropy on the collision energy with decreasing transverse momentum is found. This reflects the irregularity of the behavior of the specific heat, cAuAu, and can point to a manifestation of phase transition in nuclear matter.
An Assessment of Relations between Vegetation Green FPAR and Vegetation Indices through a Radiative Transfer Model
Authors: Liang Shouzhen , Ma Wandong , Sui Xueyan , Wang Meng , Li Hongzhong
Published: May 2023

The fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (FPAR) is widely used in remote sensing-based production models to estimate gross or net primary production. The forest canopy is composed primarily of photosynthetically active vegetation (PAV, green leaves) and non-photosynthetic vegetation (NPV e.g., branches), which absorb PAR but only the PAR absorbed by PAV is used for photosynthesis. Green FPAR (the fraction of PAR absorbed by PAV) is essential for the accurate estimation of GPP. In this study, the scattering by arbitrary inclined leaves (SAIL) model was reconfigured to partition the PAR absorbed by forest canopies. The characteristics of green FPAR and its relationships with spectral vegetation indices (NDVI, EVI, EVI2, and SAVI) were analyzed. The results showed that green FPAR varied with the canopy structure. In the forests with high coverage, the green FPAR was close to the total FPAR, while in the open forests, the green FPAR was far smaller than the total FPAR. Plant area index had more important impacts on the green FPAR than the proportion of PAV and optical properties of PAV. The significant relationships were found between spectral vegetation indices and the green FPAR, but EVI was more suitable to describe the variation of canopy green FPAR.
Soil Nutrients, Enzyme Activities, and Microbial Communities along a Chronosequence of Chinese Fir Plantations in Subtropical China
Authors: Lei Junjie , Cao Yixuan , Wang Jun , Chen Yazhen , Peng Yuanying , Shao Qiwen , Dan Qing , Xu Yichen , Chen Xiaoyong , Dang Peng , Yan Wende
Published: May 2023

Forests undergo a long-term development process from young to mature stages, yet the variations in soil nutrients, enzyme activities, microbial diversity, and community composition related to forest ages are still unclear. In this study, the characteristics of soil bacterial and fungal communities with their corresponding soil environmental factors in the young, middle, and mature stages (7, 15, and 25-year-old) of Chinese fir plantations (CFP) in the subtropical region of China were investigated in 2021. Results showed that the alpha diversity indices (Chao1 and Shannon) of soil bacteria and fungi were higher in 15 and 25-year-old stands than in 7-year-old stand of CFP, while the soil pH, soil water content, soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, sucrase, urease, acid phosphatase, catalase, and microbial biomass carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus showed higher in 7-year-old stand than other two stands of CFP. The nonmetric multidimensional scaling analysis revealed that the soil microbial species composition was significantly different in three stand ages of CFP. The redundancy and canonical correspondence analysis indicated that the soil urease and microbial biomass nitrogen were the main factors affecting soil bacterial and fungal species composition. Our findings suggested that soil microbial diversity and community structure were inconsistent with changes in soil nutrients and enzyme activities during CFP development, and enhancing stand nurturing and soil nutrient accumulation in the mid-development stage were beneficial to the sustainable management of CFP.
Transcriptome Analysis of the Late-Acting Self-Incompatibility Associated with RNase T2 Family in Camellia oleifera
Authors: Li Chang , Lu Mengqi , Zhou Junqin , Wang Sen , Long Yi , Xu Yan , Tan Xiaofeng
Published: May 2023

The Camellia oil tree (Camellia oleifera Abel.) is an important nonwood forest species in China, and the majority of its cultivars are late-acting self-incompatibility (LSI) types. Although several studies have examined the mechanism of LSI, the process is quite complicated and unclear. In this study, pollen tube growth and fruit setting of two Camellia oil tree cultivars Huashuo (HS) and Huajin (HJ) were investigated after non and self-pollination, and transcriptomic analysis of the ovaries was performed 48 h after self-pollination to identify the potential genes implicated in the LSI of Camellia oil trees. The results showed that the fruit set of HS was significantly higher than that of HJ after self-pollination. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that plant hormone signal transduction, the phosphatidylinositol signaling system, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism, and Ca2+ signaling were mainly contributed in the LSI of reaction of Camellia oil tree. Moreover, nine RNase T2 genes were identified from the transcriptome analysis, which also showed that CoRNase7 participated in the self-incompatibility reaction in HS. Based on phylogenetic analysis, CoRNase6 was closely related to S-RNase from coffee, and CoRNase7 and CoRNase8 were closely related to S-RNase from Camellia sinensis. The 9 RNase T2 genes successfully produced proteins in prokaryotes. Subcellular localization indicated that CoRNase1 and CoRNase5 were cytoplasmic proteins, while CoRNase7 was a plasma membrane protein. These results screened the main metabolic pathways closely related to LSI in Camellia oil tree, and SI signal transduction might be regulated by a large molecular regulatory network. The discovery of T2 RNases provided evidence that Camellia oil tree might be under RNase-based gametophytic self-incompatibility.
Evaluation of Fungal Volatile Organic Compounds for Control the Plant Parasitic Nematode Meloidogyne incognita
Authors: Veronico Pasqua , Sasanelli Nicola , Troccoli Alberto , Myrta Arben , Midthassel Audun , Butt Tariq
Published: May 2023

Plant parasitic nematodes are a serious threat to crop production worldwide and their control is extremely challenging. Fungal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) provide an ecofriendly alternative to synthetic nematicides, many of which have been withdrawn due to the risks they pose to humans and the environment. This study investigated the biocidal properties of two fungal VOCs, 1-Octen-3-ol and 3-Octanone, against the widespread root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita. Both VOCs proved to be highly toxic to the infective second-stage juveniles (J2) and inhibited hatching. Toxicity was dependent on the dose and period of exposure. The LD50 of 1-Octen-3-ol and 3-Octanone was 3.2 and 4.6 µL, respectively. The LT50 of 1-Octen-3-ol and 3-Octanone was 71.2 and 147.1 min, respectively. Both VOCs were highly toxic but 1-Octen-3-ol was more effective than 3-Octanone. Exposure of M. incognita egg-masses for 48 h at two doses (0.8 and 3.2 µL) of these VOCs showed that 1-Octen-3-ol had significantly greater nematicidal activity (100%) than 3-Octanone (14.7%) and the nematicide metham sodium (6.1%). High levels of reactive oxygen species detected in J2 exposed to 1-Octen-3-ol and 3-Octanone suggest oxidative stress was one factor contributing to mortality and needs to be investigated further.