bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Characterization of MWCNTs/PVDF Conductive Membrane with Cross-Linked Polymer PVA and Study on Its Anti-Fouling Performance
Authors: Ding Yi , Guo Zhansheng , Dong Xinan , You Hong , Mei Junxue , Hou Xuguang , Liang Zhenlin , Li Zhipeng
Published: September 2021

Based on carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs-COOH), a MWCNTs/PVDF conductive membrane was prepared by a vacuum filtration cross-linking method. The surface compositions and morphology of conductive membranes were studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and high-resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The effects of cross-linked polymeric polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) on the conductive membrane properties such as the porosity, pore size distribution, pure water flux, conductivity, hydrophilicity, stability and antifouling properties were investigated. Results showed that the addition of PVA to the MWCNTs/PVDF conductive membrane decreased the pure water flux, porosity and the conductivity. However, the hydrophilicity of the modified MWCNTs/PVDF conductive membrane was greatly improved, and the contact angle of pure water was reduced from 70.18° to 25.48° with the addition of PVA contents from 0 wt% to 0.05 wt%. Meanwhile, the conductive membranes with higher content had a relatively higher stability. It was found that the conductive functional layer of the conductive membrane had an average mass loss rate of 1.22% in the 30 min ultrasonic oscillation experiment. The tensile intensity and break elongation ratio of the conductive membrane are improved by the addition of PVA, and the durability of the conductive membrane with PVA was superior to that without PVA added. The electric assisted anti-fouling experiments of modified conductive membrane indicated that compared with the condition without electric field, the average flux attenuation of the conductive membrane was reduced by 11.2%, and the membrane flux recovery rate reached 97.05%. Moreover, the addition of PVA could accelerate the clean of the conductive membranes.
An Experimental Investigation on the Material Removal Rate and Surface Roughness of a Hybrid Aluminum Metal Matrix Composite (Al6061/SiC/Gr)
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Garg Harish , Maharana Sthitapragyan , Yadav Anchal , Singh Rasmeet , Maharana Pragyansu , Nguyen Tien , Yadav Sudesh , Loganathan M.
Published: September 2021

The objective of this paper was to determine the optimum process parameters of an electric discharge machine while machining a new hybrid aluminum metal matrix composite. In this study, a new hybrid aluminum metal matrix composite was prepared, with silicon carbide and graphite particles used as reinforcements, with the help of the stir casting method. The selected electric discharge machining parameters in this study were peak current (I), voltage (V), pulse-on time (Ton), and tool material, while the response parameters were material removal rate and surface roughness. To machine the fabricated samples, two different types of tool materials (copper and brass) were used as electric discharge machine electrodes, and each had a diameter (Ø) of 12.0 mm. The optimal settings of the electric discharge machining parameters were determined through experiments planned, conducted, and analyzed using the Taguchi (L18) technique. An analysis of variance and confirmatory tests were used to check the contribution of each machining parameter. It was found that the material removal rate increased with the increase in pulse-on time and pulse current, whereas the material removal rate decreased with the increase in voltage. On the other hand, reduced surface roughness could only be achieved when current, voltage, and pulse duration were low. It was also found that the selected electric discharge machining electrodes had a significant effect on both the material removal rate and the surface roughness.
Facile Synthesis of PdCuRu Porous Nanoplates as Highly Efficient Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Alkaline Medium
Authors: Chen Changhong , Qian Ningkang , Li Junjie , Li Xiao , Yang Deren , Zhang Hui
Published: September 2021

Ru is a key component of electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), especially in alkaline media. However, the catalytic activity and durability of Ru-based HER electrocatalysts are still far from satisfactory. Here we report a solvothermal approach for the synthesis of PdCuRu porous nanoplates with different Ru compositions by using Pd nanoplates as the seeds. The PdCuRu porous nanoplates were formed through underpotential deposition (UPD) of Cu on Pd, followed by alloying Cu with Pd through interdiffusion and galvanic replacement between Cu atoms and Ru precursor simultaneously. When evaluated as HER electrocatalysts, the PdCuRu porous nanoplates exhibited excellent catalytic activity and durability. Of them, the Pd24Cu29Ru47/C achieved the lowest overpotential (40.7 mV) and smallest Tafel slope (37.5 mV dec−1) in an alkaline solution (much better than commercial Pt/C). In addition, the Pd24Cu29Ru47/C only lost 17% of its current density during a stability test for 10 h, while commercial Pt/C had a 59.5% drop under the same conditions. We believe that the electron coupling between three metals, unique porous structure, and strong capability of Ru for water dissociation are responsible for such an enhancement in HER performance.
Fungi in Permafrost-Affected Soils of the Canadian Arctic: Horizon- and Site-Specific Keystone Taxa Revealed by Co-Occurrence Network
Authors: Varsadiya Milan , Urich Tim , Hugelius Gustaf , Bárta Jiří
Published: September 2021

Permafrost-affected soil stores a significant amount of organic carbon. Identifying the biological constraints of soil organic matter transformation, e.g., the interaction of major soil microbial soil organic matter decomposers, is crucial for predicting carbon vulnerability in permafrost-affected soil. Fungi are important players in the decomposition of soil organic matter and often interact in various mutualistic relationships during this process. We investigated four different soil horizon types (including specific horizons of cryoturbated soil organic matter (cryoOM)) across different types of permafrost-affected soil in the Western Canadian Arctic, determined the composition of fungal communities by sequencing (Illumina MPS) the fungal internal transcribed spacer region, assigned fungal lifestyles, and by determining the co-occurrence of fungal network properties, identified the topological role of keystone fungal taxa. Compositional analysis revealed a significantly higher relative proportion of the litter saprotroph Lachnum and root-associated saprotroph Phialocephala in the topsoil and the ectomycorrhizal close-contact exploring Russula in cryoOM, whereas Sites 1 and 2 had a significantly higher mean proportion of plant pathogens and lichenized trophic modes. Co-occurrence network analysis revealed the lowest modularity and average path length, and highest clustering coefficient in cryoOM, which suggested a lower network resistance to environmental perturbation. Zi-Pi plot analysis suggested that some keystone taxa changed their role from generalist to specialist, depending on the specific horizon concerned, Cladophialophora in topsoil, saprotrophic Mortierella in cryoOM, and Penicillium in subsoil were classified as generalists for the respective horizons but specialists elsewhere. The litter saprotrophic taxon Cadophora finlandica played a role as a generalist in Site 1 and specialist in the rest of the sites. Overall, these results suggested that fungal communities within cryoOM were more susceptible to environmental change and some taxa may shift their role, which may lead to changes in carbon storage in permafrost-affected soil.
Epiphytic Bacteria from Sweet Pepper Antagonistic In Vitro to Ralstonia solanacearum BD 261, a Causative Agent of Bacterial Wilt
Authors: Mamphogoro Tshifhiwa Paris , Kamutando Casper Nyaradzai , Maboko Martin Makgose , Aiyegoro Olayinka Ayobami , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti
Published: September 2021

Biological control of plant pathogens, particularly using microbial antagonists, is posited as the most effective, environmentally-safe, and sustainable strategy to manage plant diseases. However, the roles of antagonists in controlling bacterial wilt, a disease caused by the most devastating and widely distributed pathogen of sweet peppers (i.e., R. solanacearum), are poorly understood. Here, amplicon sequencing and several microbial function assays were used to depict the identities and the potential antagonistic functions of bacteria isolated from 80 red and green sweet pepper fruit samples, grown under hydroponic and open soil conditions, with some plants, fungicide-treated while others were untreated. Amplicon sequencing revealed the following bacterial strains: Bacillus cereus strain HRT7.7, Enterobacter hormaechei strain SRU4.4, Paenibacillus polymyxa strain SRT9.1, and Serratia marcescens strain SGT5.3, as potential antagonists of R. solanacearum. Optimization studies with different carbon and nitrogen sources revealed that maximum inhibition of the pathogen was produced at 3% (w/v) starch and 2,5% (w/v) tryptone at pH 7 and 30 °C. The mode of action exhibited by the antagonistic isolates includes the production of lytic enzymes (i.e., cellulase and protease enzymes) and siderophores, as well as solubilization of phosphate. Overall, the results demonstrated that the maximum antimicrobial activity of bacterial antagonists could only be achieved under specific environmental conditions (e.g., available carbon and nitrogen sources, pH, and temperature levels), and that bacterial antagonists can also indirectly promote crop growth and development through nutrient cycling and siderophore production.
Gut Microbiome Alteration after Reboxetine Administration in Type-1 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Aydin Sinem , Ozkul Ceren , Yucel Nazlı Turan , Karaca Hulya
Published: September 2021

Antidepressants are drugs commonly used in clinical settings. However, there are very limited studies on the effects of these drugs on the gut microbiota. Herein, we evaluated the effect of reboxetine (RBX), a selective norepinephrine (noradrenaline) reuptake inhibitor (NRI), on gut microbiota in both diabetic and non-diabetic rats. This is the first report of relation between reboxetine use and the gut microbiota to our knowledge. In this study, type-1 diabetes induced by using streptozotocin (STZ) and RBX was administered to diabetic rats and healthy controls for 14 days. At the end of the treatment, stool samples were collected. Following DNA extraction, amplicon libraries for the V3-V4 region were prepared and sequenced with the Illumina Miseq platform. QIIME was used for preprocessing and analysis of the data. As a result, RBX had a significant effect on gut microbiota structure and composition in diabetic and healthy rats. For example, RBX exposure had a pronounced microbial signature in both groups, with a low Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and low Lactobacillus levels. While another abundance phylum after exposure to RBX was Proteabacteria, other notable taxa in the diabetic group included Flavobacterium, Desulfovibrionaceae, Helicobacteriaceae, Campylobacterales, and Pasteurellacae when compared to the untreated group.
Expression Profiling of Flavonoid Biosynthesis Genes and Secondary Metabolites Accumulation in Populus under Drought Stress
Authors: Ahmed Umair , Rao Muhammad Junaid , Qi Cheng , Xie Qi , Noushahi Hamza Armghan , Yaseen Muhammad , Shi Xueping , Zheng Bo
Published: September 2021

Flavonoids are key secondary metabolites that are biologically active and perform diverse functions in plants such as stress defense against abiotic and biotic stress. In addition to its importance, no comprehensive information has been available about the secondary metabolic response of Populus tree, especially the genes that encode key enzymes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis under drought stress. In this study, the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis revealed that the expression of flavonoid biosynthesis genes (PtPAL, Pt4-CL, PtCHS, PtFLS-1, PtF3H, PtDFR, and PtANS) gradually increased in the leaves of hybrid poplar (P. tremula × P. alba), corresponding to the drought stress duration. In addition, the activity and capacity of antioxidants have also increased, which is positively correlated with the increment of phenolic, flavonoid, anthocyanin, and carotenoid compounds under drought stress. As the drought stress prolonged, the level of reactive oxygen species such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and singlet oxygen (O2−) too increased. The concentration of phytohormone salicylic acid (SA) also increased significantly in the stressed poplar leaves. Our research concluded that drought stress significantly induced the expression of flavonoid biosynthesis genes in hybrid poplar plants and enhanced the accumulation of phenolic and flavonoid compounds with resilient antioxidant activity.
Nitropyridines as 2π-Partners in 1,3-Dipolar Cycloadditions with N-Methyl Azomethine Ylide: An Easy Access to Condensed Pyrrolines
Authors: Bastrakov Maxim A. , Fedorenko Alexey K. , Starosotnikov Alexey M. , Shakhnes Alexander Kh.
Published: September 2021

1,3-Dipolar cycloaddition reactions of 2-substituted 5-R-3-nitropyridines and isomeric 3-R-5-nitropyridines with N-methyl azomethine ylide were studied. The effect of the substituent at positions 2 and 5 of the pyridine ring on the possibility of the [3+2]-cycloaddition process was revealed. A number of new derivatives of pyrroline and pyrrolidine condensed with a pyridine ring were synthesized.
Production of 6-l-[18F]Fluoro-m-tyrosine in an Automated Synthesis Module for 11C-Labeling
Authors: Orlovskaya Viktoriya V. , Craig Austin S. , Fedorova Olga S. , Kuznetsova Olga F. , Neumaier Bernd , Krasikova Raisa N. , Zlatopolskiy Boris D.
Published: September 2021

6-l-[18F]Fluoro-m-tyrosine (6-l-[18F]FMT) represents a valuable alternative to 6-l-[18F]FDOPA which is conventionally used for the diagnosis and staging of Parkinson’s disease. However, clinical applications of 6-l-[18F]FMT have been limited by the paucity of practical production methods for its automated production. Herein we describe the practical preparation of 6-l-[18F]FMT using alcohol-enhanced Cu-mediated radiofluorination of Bpin-substituted chiral Ni(II) complex in the presence of non-basic Bu4ONTf using a volatile iPrOH/MeCN mixture as reaction solvent. A simple and fast radiolabeling procedure afforded the tracer in 20.0 ± 3.0% activity yield within 70 min. The developed method was directly implemented onto a modified TracerLab FX C Pro platform originally designed for 11C-labeling. This method enables an uncomplicated switch between 11C- and 18F-labeling. The simplicity of the developed procedure enables its easy adaptation to other commercially available remote-controlled synthesis units and paves the way for a widespread application of 6-l-[18F]FMT in the clinic.
Enabling Efficient Folding and High-Resolution Crystallographic Analysis of Bracelet Cyclotides
Authors: Huang Yen-Hua , Du Qingdan , Jiang Zhihao , King Gordon J. , Collins Brett M. , Wang Conan K. , Craik David J.
Published: September 2021

Cyclotides have attracted great interest as drug design scaffolds because of their unique cyclic cystine knotted topology. They are classified into three subfamilies, among which the bracelet subfamily represents the majority and comprises the most bioactive cyclotides, but are the most poorly utilized in drug design applications. A long-standing challenge has been the very low in vitro folding yields of bracelets, hampering efforts to characterize their structures and activities. Herein, we report substantial increases in bracelet folding yields enabled by a single point mutation of residue Ile-11 to Leu or Gly. We applied this discovery to synthesize mirror image enantiomers and used quasi-racemic crystallography to elucidate the first crystal structures of bracelet cyclotides. This study provides a facile strategy to produce bracelet cyclotides, leading to a general method to easily access their atomic resolution structures and providing a basis for development of biotechnological applications.
PEEK–WC-Based Mixed Matrix Membranes Containing Polyimine Cages for Gas Separation
Authors: Monteleone Marcello , Mobili Riccardo , Milanese Chiara , Esposito Elisa , Fuoco Alessio , La Cognata Sonia , Amendola Valeria , Jansen Johannes C.
Published: September 2021

Membrane-based processes are taking a more and more prominent position in the search for sustainable and energy-efficient gas separation applications. It is known that the separation performance of pure polymers may significantly be improved by the dispersion of suitable filler materials in the polymer matrix, to produce so-called mixed matrix membranes. In the present work, four different organic cages were dispersed in the poly(ether ether ketone) with cardo group, PEEK-WC. The m-xylyl imine and furanyl imine-based fillers yielded mechanically robust and selective films after silicone coating. Instead, poor dispersion of p-xylyl imine and diphenyl imine cages did not allow the formation of selective films. The H2, He, O2, N2, CH4, and CO2 pure gas permeability of the neat polymer and the MMMs were measured, and the effect of filler was compared with the maximum limits expected for infinitely permeable and impermeable fillers, according to the Maxwell model. Time lag measurements allowed the calculation of the diffusion coefficient and demonstrated that 20 wt % of furanyl imine cage strongly increased the diffusion coefficient of the bulkier gases and decreased the diffusion selectivity, whereas the m-xylyl imine cage slightly increased the diffusion coefficient and improved the size-selectivity. The performance and properties of the membranes were discussed in relation to their composition and morphology.
A DFT Study on the Molecular Mechanism of Additions of Electrophilic and Nucleophilic Carbenes to Non-Enolizable Cycloaliphatic Thioketones
Authors: Mlostoń Grzegorz , Kula Karolina , Jasiński Radomir
Published: September 2021

The molecular mechanisms of addition of dihalocarbenes and dimethoxycarbene to thioketones derived from 2,2,4,4-tetrmethylcyclobutane-1,3-dione were examined on the basis of the DFT wb97xd/6-311g(d,p)(PCM) calculations. Obtained results demonstrated that the examined processes exhibit polar nature and in the case of electrophilic dichloro-, and dibromocarbenes are initiated by the attack of carbene species onto the sulfur atom of the C=S group. Remarkably, reactions involving more electrophilic carbenes (dichloro-, and dibromocarbene) proceeds via stepwise mechanism involving thiocarbonyl ylide as a transient intermediate. In contrast, analogous reactions with nucleophilic dimethoxycarbene occur via a single step reaction, which can be considered as the [2 + 1] cycloaddition reaction initiated by the attack onto the C=S bond. A computational study showed that difluorocarbene tends to react as a nucleophilic species and resembles rather dimethoxycarbene and not typical dihalocarbene species. Significantly higher reactivity of the thioketone unit in comparison to the ketone group, both present in 3-thioxo-2,2,4,4-tetramthylcyclobutanone molecule, was rationalized in the light of DFT computational study.
Effect of Calcium Compound Type and Dosage on the Properties of Acid Rennet Goat’s Milk Gels
Authors: Pawlos Małgorzata , Znamirowska Agata , Szajnar Katarzyna
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of adding calcium compounds to processed goat’s milk, and on the properties of acid rennet goat’s milk gels, which are a middle product obtained in the manufacture of acid rennet cheese. The properties of the gels directly affect the quality of acid rennet cheeses. The analysis of raw goat’s milk was carried out, then acid rennet gels were produced with the addition of six different calcium compounds (chloride, citrate, bisglycinate, gluconate, lactate, and carbonate). The dynamics of milk fermentation were performed by monitoring the pH value of milk during acidification. The pH, syneresis, color, and texture profile were determined in the formulated acid rennet gels. An organoleptic evaluation was also performed. The study demonstrated that, not only calcium chloride, but also calcium citrate, gluconate, lactate, bisglycinate, and calcium carbonate could be used in the production of goat’s milk acid rennet gels, or the middle product in the manufacture of acid rennet curd cheese from goat’s milk. Notably, the addition of citrate, bisglycinate, and calcium carbonate in doses of 20 mg Ca 100 g−1 most effectively reduced syneresis compared to the control sample by 4.76% (citrate), 7.85% (bisglycinate), and 10.28% (carbonate). The hardness of the control gels ranged from 2.35 N to 2.99 N. The addition of chloride, citrate, gluconate, lactate, and calcium carbonate to the milk improved the acid rennet gel’s hardness. The addition of 20 mg Ca 100 g−1 as gluconate increased the hardness the most (3.61 N). When increasing the calcium dosage in the form of all compounds, there was a tendency to increase the gel’s springiness. The addition of chloride, citrate, and bisglycinate to milk did not result in a darkening of the gel’s color. The addition of calcium compounds mostly reduced the intensity of goatish taste and odor. Calcium gluconate, in particular, reduced the goatish taste the most, a taste which is not always acceptable by the consumers.
Ozonation of Decalin as a Model Saturated Cyclic Molecule: A Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Ershov Boris G. , Panich Nadezhda M. , Bykov Gennadii L. , Kustov Alexander L. , Krasovskiy Vladimir G. , Kustov Leonid M.
Published: September 2021

Ozonolysis is used for oxidation of a model cyclic molecule-decalin, which may be considered as an analog of saturated cyclic molecules present in heavy oil. The conversion of decalin exceeds 50% with the highest yield of formation of acids about 15–17%. Carboxylic acids, ketones/aldehydes, and alcohols are produced as intermediate products. The methods of UV-visible, transmission IR, attenuated total reflection IR-spectroscopy, NMR and mass-spectrometry were used to identify reaction products and unravel a possible reaction mechanism. The key stage of the process is undoubtedly the activation of the first C-H bond and the formation of peroxide radicals.
Efficient Exciplex-Based Deep-Blue Organic Light-Emitting Diodes Employing a Bis(4-fluorophenyl)amine-Substituted Heptazine Acceptor
Authors: Li Jie , Gong Heqi , Zhang Jincheng , Liu Hui , Tao Li , Wang Yanqing , Guo Qiang
Published: September 2021

The realization of a deep-blue-emitting exciplex system is a herculean task in the field of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) on account of a large red-shifted and broadened exciplex emission spectrum in comparison to those of the corresponding single compounds. Herein, 2,5,8-tris(di(4-fluorophenyl)amine)-1,3,4,6,7,9,9b-heptaazaphenalene (HAP-3FDPA) was designed as an electron acceptor by integrating three bis(4-fluorophenyl)amine groups into a heptazine core, while 1,3-di(9H-carbazol-9-yl)benzene (mCP) possessing two electron-donating carbazole moieties was chosen as the electron donor. Excitingly, the exciplex system of 8 wt% HAP-3FDPA:mCP exhibited deep-blue emission and a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 53.2%. More importantly, an OLED containing this exciplex system as an emitting layer showed deep-blue emission with Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage coordinates of (0.16, 0.12), a peak luminance of 15,148 cd m−2, and a rather high maximum external quantum efficiency of 10.2% along with a low roll-off. This study not only reports an efficient exciplex-based deep-blue emitter but also presents a feasible pathway to construct highly efficient deep-blue OLEDs based on exciplex systems.
Laser Activated and Electroless Metalized Polyurethane Coatings Containing Copper(II) L-Tyrosine and Glass Microspheres
Authors: Rytlewski Piotr , Jagodziński Bartłomiej , Malinowski Rafał , Budner Bogusław , Moraczewski Krzysztof , Wojciechowska Agnieszka , Augustyn Piotr
Published: September 2021

Polyurethane coatings containing copper(II) L-tyrosine and glass microspheres were laser irradiated and underwent electroless metallization. Various sizes of glass microspheres were incorporated into the polyurethane coating matrix in order to examine their effects on surface activation and electroless metallization. The surface of the coatings was activated by using ArF excimer laser emitting ultraviolet radiation (λ = 193 nm) using different number of laser pulses and their fluence. The effects of surface activation and metallization were evaluated mainly based on optical and scanning electron microcopies (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It was found that the presence of glass microspheres enabled the reduction in copper complex content, intensified the ablation process (higher cone-like structures created) and resulted in higher content of copper metallic seeds. On the other hand, the glass microspheres concentration, which was higher for lower size microspheres, was advantageous for obtaining a fully metallized layer.
Photothermal Effects and Heat Conduction in Nanogranular Silicon Films
Authors: Kurbanova Bayan A. , Mussabek Gauhar K. , Timoshenko Viktor Y. , Lysenko Vladimir , Utegulov Zhandos N.
Published: September 2021

We present results on the photothermal (PT) and heat conductive properties of nanogranular silicon (Si) films synthesized by evaporation of colloidal droplets (drop-casting) of 100 ± 50 nm-sized crystalline Si nanoparticles (NP) deposited on glass substrates. Simulations of the absorbed light intensity and photo-induced temperature distribution across the Si NP films were carried out by using the Finite difference time domain (FDTD) and finite element mesh (FEM) modeling and the obtained data were compared with the local temperatures measured by micro-Raman spectroscopy and then was used for determining the heat conductivities k in the films of various thicknesses. The cubic-to-hexagonal phase transition in Si NP films caused by laser-induced heating was found to be heavily influenced by the film thickness and heat-conductive properties of glass substrate, on which the films were deposited. The k values in drop-casted Si nanogranular films were found to be in the range of lowest k of other types of nanostructurely voided Si films due to enhanced phonon scattering across inherently voided topology, weak NP-NP and NP-substrate interface bonding within nanogranular Si films.
TiO2-Supported Pd as an Efficient and Stable Catalyst for the Mild Hydrotreatment of Tar-Type Compounds
Authors: Raad Zaher , Toufaily Joumana , Hamieh Tayssir , Domine Marcelo E.
Published: September 2021

The mild hydrotreatment of a model mixture of tar-type compounds (i.e., naphthalene, 1-methylnaphthalene, acenaphthylene, and phenanthrene) to produce partially hydrogenated products in the range of C9–C15 was studied over Pd supported on TiO2 possessing different crystalline phases. Pd-based catalysts were prepared and characterized by ICP analysis, XRD, N2 adsorption isotherms, HR-TEM, and NH3-TPD, among others. The hydrotreatment activity and selectivity towards the desired hydrogenated products (i.e., tetralin and others) increased with both the acidity and surface area of the catalyst, along with the presence of small and well distributed Pd nanoparticles. For the selected 1.3 wt% Pd/TiO2 nano catalyst, the operational conditions for maximizing tar conversion were found to be 275 °C, 30 bar of H2, and 0.2 g of catalyst for 7 h. The catalyst revealed remarkable hydrotreatment activity and stability after several reuses with practically no changes in TiO2 structure, quite low carbon deposition, and any Pd leaching detected, thus maintaining both a small Pd particle size and adequate distribution, even after regeneration of the catalyst. Additionally, the Pd/TiO2 nano catalyst was demonstrated to be more active than other commonly used metal/alumina and more selective than metal/USY zeolites in the mild hydrotreatment of tar-type compounds, thus providing an efficient catalytic route for obtaining partially hydrogenated C9–C15 hydrocarbons useful as jet-fuel components or additives (improvers), as well as chemicals and solvents for industrial applications.
High Frequency Electromagnetic Shielding by Biochar-Based Composites
Authors: Torsello Daniele , Bartoli Mattia , Giorcelli Mauro , Rovere Massimo , Arrigo Rossella , Malucelli Giulio , Tagliaferro Alberto , Ghigo Gianluca
Published: September 2021

We report on the microwave shielding efficiency of non-structural composites, where inclusions of biochar—a cost effective and eco-friendly material—are dispersed in matrices of interest for building construction. We directly measured the complex permittivity of raw materials and composites, in the frequency range 100 MHz–8 GHz. A proper permittivity mixing formula allows obtaining other combinations, to enlarge the case studies. From complex permittivity, finally, we calculated the shielding efficiency, showing that tailoring the content of biochar allows obtaining a desired value of electromagnetic shielding, potentially useful for different applications. This approach represents a quick preliminary evaluation tool to design composites with desired shielding properties starting from physical parameters.
Periconceptional Maternal Diet Characterized by High Glycemic Loading Is Associated with Offspring Behavior in NEST
Authors: Alick Candice L. , Maguire Rachel L. , Murphy Susan K. , Fuemmeler Bernard F. , Hoyo Cathrine , House John S.
Published: September 2021

Maternal periconceptional diets have known associations with proper offspring neurodevelopment. Mechanisms for such associations include improper energy/nutrient balances between mother and fetus, as well as altered offspring epigenetics during development due to maternal nutrient and inflammatory status. Using a comprehensive food frequency questionnaire and assessing offspring temperament with the Infant-Toddler Social and Emotional Assessment (n = 325, mean age = 13.9 months), we sought to test whether a maternal periconceptional diet characterized by high glycemic loading (MGL) would affect offspring temperament using adjusted ordinal regression. After limiting false discovery to 10%, offspring born to mothers in tertile 3 of glycemic loading (referent = tertile 1) were more likely to be in the next tertile of anxiety [OR (95% CI) = 4.51 (1.88–11.07)] and inhibition-related behaviors [OR (95% CI) = 3.42 (1.49–7.96)]. Male offspring were more likely to exhibit impulsive [OR (95% CI) = 5.55 (1.76–18.33)], anxiety [OR (95% CI) = 4.41 (1.33–15.30)], sleep dysregulation [OR (95% CI) = 4.14 (1.34–13.16)], empathy [6.68 (1.95–24.40)], and maladaptive behaviors [OR (95% CI) = 9.86 (2.81–37.18)], while females were more likely to exhibit increased anxiety-related behaviors [OR (95% CI) = 15.02 (3.14–84.27)]. These associations persisted when concurrently modeled with the maternal–Mediterranean dietary pattern. In a subset (n = 142), we also found MGL associated with increased mean methylation of the imprint control region of SGCE/PEG10. In conclusion, these findings highlight the importance of maternal dietary patterns on offspring neurodevelopment, offering avenues for prevention options for mothers.
Effect of Individual Nutrition Therapy and Exercise Regime on Gait Speed, Physical Function, Strength and Balance, Body Composition, Energy and Protein, in Injured, Vulnerable Elderly: A Multisite Randomized Controlled Trial (INTERACTIVE)
Authors: Han Chad Yixian , Crotty Maria , Thomas Susie , Cameron Ian D. , Whitehead Craig , Kurrle Susan , Mackintosh Shylie , Miller Michelle
Published: September 2021

It is imperative that the surgical treatment of hip fractures is followed up with rehabilitation to enhance recovery and quality of life. This randomized controlled trial aimed to determine if an individualised, combined exercise–nutrition intervention significantly improved health outcomes in older adults, after proximal femoral fracture. We commenced the community extended therapy while in hospital, within two weeks post-surgery. The primary outcome was gait speed and secondary outcomes included physical function, strength and balance, body composition, energy and protein intake. Eighty-six and 89 participants were randomized into six months individualised exercise and nutrition intervention and attention-control groups, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in gait speed between the groups at six and 12 months. There were no major differences between groups with respect to the secondary outcomes, except estimated energy and protein intake. This may be explained by the sample size achieved. Participants in the intervention group had greater increment in energy (235 kcal; 95% CI, 95 to 375; p = 0.01) and protein intake (9.1 g; 95% CI, 1.5 to 16.8; p = 0.02), compared with those in the control group at six months but not significant at 12 months. This study has demonstrated that providing early, combined exercise and nutrition therapy can improve dietary energy and protein intake in older adults with hip fractures.
Disordered Eating Behaviors Are Associated with Gestational Weight Gain in Adolescents
Authors: Sámano Reyna , Ortiz-Hernández Luis , Martínez-Rojano Hugo , Nájera-Medina Oralia , Chico-Barba Gabriela , Sánchez-Jiménez Bernarda , Cruz-Cruz Jessica , Echenique-González María José
Published: September 2021

Disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) and adolescent pregnancy are public health problems. Among adolescents, there is little evidence concerning the relationship of DEB with gestational weight gain (GWG) and the birth weight and length of their offspring. We aimed to determine the association between DEB with GWG and the weight and length of adolescents’ offspring. We conducted a study with 379 participants. To evaluate DEB, we applied a validated scale. We identified three factors from DEB by factorial analysis: restrictive, compensatory, and binge–purge behaviors. The main events were GWG and offspring’s birth weight and length. We performed linear regression models. We found that 50% of adolescents have at least one DEB. Excessive and insufficient GWG were 37 and 34%, respectively. The median GWG was 13 kg; adolescents with restrictive behaviors had higher GWG (13 vs. 12 kg, p = 0.023). After adjusting for pregestational body mass index and other covariables, the restrictive (β = 0.67, p = 0.039), compensatory (β = 0.65, p = 0.044), and binge–purge behaviors (β = 0.54, p = 0.013) were associated with higher GWG. We did not find an association between the birth weight and length of newborns with DEB, and suggest that DEB is associated with GWG but not with the birth weight or length of the offspring.
In Vitro Evaluation of Acute Toxicity of Five Citrus spp. Essential Oils towards the Parasitic Mite Varroa destructor
Authors: Bava Roberto , Castagna Fabio , Piras Cristian , Palma Ernesto , Cringoli Giuseppe , Musolino Vincenzo , Lupia Carmine , Perri Maria Rosaria , Statti Giancarlo , Britti Domenico , Musella Vincenzo
Published: September 2021

Varroa destructor is the most important ectoparasitic mite of honey bees that has a negative impact on bee health and honey production. The control programs are mainly based on the use of synthetic acaricides that are often administered indiscriminately. All this has led to drug resistance that now represent a great concern for honey bee farming. The research for alternative products/methods for mites’ control is now mandatory. The aim of this study was to test whether Citrus spp. essential oils could diminish the growth of the V. destructor mite. In Calabria (southern Italy), plants of the Citrus genus are very common and grow both spontaneously and cultured. The essential oils used in this study were extracted from bergamot (Citrus bergamia), grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), lemon (Citrus limon), orange (Citrus sinensis), and mandarin (Citrus reticulata) by hydrodistillation. Every EO was in vitro tested against V. destructor. Each experimental replicate was performed using 35 viable adult female mites (5 for each EO) collected the same day from the same apiary and included negative controls (5 individuals exposed to acetone only) and positive controls (5 individuals exposed to Amitraz diluted in acetone). The essential oils (Eos) were diluted (0.5 mg/mL, 1 mg/mL, and 2 mg/mL) in HPLC grade acetone to obtain the working solution to be tested (50 µL/tube). Mite mortality was manually assessed after 1 h exposure under controlled conditions. The essential oils that showed the best effectiveness at 0.5 mg/mL were bergamot, which neutralized (dead + inactivated) 80% (p ≤ 0.001) of the parasites; grapefruit, which neutralized 70% (p ≤ 0.001); and lemon, which neutralized 69% of them. Interestingly, the positive control (Amitraz) at the same concentration neutralized 60% of the parasites. These results demonstrate that Calabrian bergamot, grapefruit, and lemon Eos consistently reduced V. destructor viability and open the possibility for their utilization to control this parasite in honey bee farming.
Molecular Detection of Coxiella burnetii, Rickettsia africae and Anaplasma Species in Ticks from Domestic Animals in Lesotho
Authors: Mahlobo-Shwabede Sibonginhlanhla I. C. , Zishiri Oliver T. , Thekisoe Oriel M. M. , Makalo Mabusetsa J. R.
Published: September 2021

Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) hamper the growth of the livestock sector and impose major constraints for the health and management of domestic animals in the tropic and subtropical regions globally. Currently, there is no scientific report on the presence of zoonotic pathogens transmitted by tick species in Lesotho. This study aimed to identify zoonotic tick-borne pathogens of economic importance from ticks infesting domestic animals in Lesotho using molecular techniques. A total of 322 tick DNA pools were subjected to PCR screening for the presence of zoonotic pathogens and sequenced. The overall prevalence of Anaplasma spp. was 35% (113/322), with a 100% infection rate in Rhipicephalus microplus, followed by R. evertsi evertsi (92%), Hyalomma rufipes and Otobius megnini sharing 50% and the lowest infection rate was observed in R. decoloratus with 40%. The prevalence of Coxiella burnetii, a gram-negative pleomorphic etiological agent of Query fever (Q fever), was 1% (2/322) for all screened samples, with 20% of R. decoloratus and 1% of R. e. evertsi infected. Rickettsia africae was detected from Hyalomma rufipes with a 70% prevalence. This study provides a baseline knowledge of tick-borne pathogens of medical and veterinary importance in Lesotho and raises awareness of the prevalence of such diseases within the tourism sector as they are mostly affected.
Osteosarcoma in Children: Not Only Chemotherapy
Authors: Argenziano Maura , Tortora Chiara , Pota Elvira , Di Paola Alessandra , Di Martino Martina , Di Leva Caterina , Di Pinto Daniela , Rossi Francesca
Published: September 2021

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most severe bone malignant tumor, responsible for altered osteoid deposition and with a high rate of metastasis. It is characterized by heterogeneity, chemoresistance and its interaction with bone microenvironment. The 5-year survival rate is about 67% for patients with localized OS, while it remains at 20% in case of metastases. The standard therapy for OS patients is represented by neoadjuvant chemotherapy, surgical resection, and adjuvant chemotherapy. The most used chemotherapy regimen for children is the combination of high-dose methotrexate, doxorubicin, and cisplatin. Considered that the necessary administration of high-dose chemotherapy is responsible for a lot of acute and chronic side effects, the identification of novel therapeutic strategies to ameliorate OS outcome and the patients’ life expectancy is necessary. In this review we provide an overview on new possible innovative therapeutic strategies in OS.
A Novel Approach to Assess the Potency of Topical Corticosteroids
Authors: Zvidzayi Michael , Rath Seeprarani , Bon Charles , Abboo Sagaran , Kanfer Isadore
Published: September 2021

The potencies of topical corticosteroid products have mainly been classified using clinical data but in some instances, the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) vasoconstrictor assay (VCA) to assess the skin blanching response has also been used. However, the reported skin blanching response data were often based on a single visual reading and lack information on the dose (amount/quantity) or dose duration. Although several lists classifying potencies of various topical corticosteroid products have been published, the inherent potencies of topical corticosteroid raw materials used as active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) have not been investigated. The objective was to rank the inherent potencies of topical corticosteroid APIs and to standardize dosing such that the relevant compounds could be compared on a normalized molar basis. The potencies of clobetasol propionate, halcinonide, mometasone furoate, and fluocinolone acetonide were compared using the resulting Emax data following the fitting of the relevant response data to the Emax model where mometasone furoate > fluocinolone acetonide = clobetasol propionate > halcinonide. This ranking lists the respective inherent potencies of the APIs, which will facilitate the choice of a suitable candidate for incorporation into an appropriate topical corticosteroid product for a specific clinical indication.
Dual Cross-Linked Chitosan/PVA Hydrogels Containing Silver Nanoparticles with Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Suflet Dana M. , Popescu Irina , Pelin Irina M. , Ichim Daniela L. , Daraba Oana M. , Constantin Marieta , Fundueanu Gheorghe
Published: September 2021

Stable chitosan/PVA-based hydrogels were obtained by combining covalent and physical cross-linking methods. As covalent cross-linkers, epoxy agents with different chain lengths were used, while freeze–thaw cycles were applied for additional physical cross-linking. The chemical structure of the hydrogel was examined by FTIR spectroscopy whereas the morphology was analyzed by SEM, showing well-defined pores with dimensions of around 50 μm in diameter. It was proved that gel fraction and the network morphology were deeply influenced by the synthesis conditions. Chitosan/PVA hydrogel showed a relative high swelling rate, reaching equilibrium in the first hour. The values obtained for the elastic modulus were relatively low (3–30 kPa); as a result, these hydrogels are soft and very flexible, and are ideal candidates for medical applications as wound or oral dressings. In addition, the natural antimicrobial activity of chitosan was enhanced by in situ generation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) under UV irradiation. The total amount of Ag from hydrogel was determined by elemental analyses and its crystalline state was confirmed by XRD. The CS/PVA hydrogels entrapped with AgNPs exhibited high inhibitory activity against S. aureus and K. pneumonia. The vitality tests confirmed the lack of cytotoxicity of CS/PVA hydrogels without and with AgNPs.
Differential Expression, Tissue-Specific Distribution, and Posttranslational Controls of Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxylase
Authors: Caburatan Lorrenne , Park Joonho
Published: September 2021

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) is a ubiquitous cytosolic enzyme, which is crucial for plant carbon metabolism. PEPC participates in photosynthesis by catalyzing the initial fixation of atmospheric CO2 and is abundant in both C4 and crassulacean acid metabolism leaves. PEPC is differentially expressed at different stages of plant development, mostly in leaves, but also in developing seeds. PEPC is known to show tissue-specific distribution in leaves and in other plant organs, such as roots, stems, and flowers. Plant PEPC undergoes reversible phosphorylation and monoubiquitination, which are posttranslational modifications playing important roles in regulatory processes and in protein localization. Phosphorylation activates the PEPC enzyme, making it more sensitive to glucose-6-phosphate and less sensitive to malate or aspartate. PEPC phosphorylation is known to be diurnally regulated and delicately changed in response to various environmental stimuli, in addition to light. PEPCs belong to a small gene family encoding several plant-type and distantly related bacterial-type PEPCs. This paper provides a minireview of the general information on PEPCs in both C4 and C3 plants.
The Similarity between Species Composition of Vegetation and Soil Seed Bank of Grasslands in Inner Mongolia, China: Implications for the Asymmetric Response to Precipitation
Authors: Lv Yanyan , Shen Menghong , Meng Baoping , Zhang Huifang , Sun Yi , Zhang Jianguo , Chang Li , Li Jingrong , Yi Shuhua
Published: September 2021

The asymmetric response of productivity to precipitation was recently proposed as an early warning signal for the shifts in temperate grassland function in China. It was hypothesized that the asymmetry was influenced by the increased growth of the newly emerged seedlings from the soil seed bank. Therefore, the seed density in the soil seed bank and the similarity between species composition of the vegetation and the soil seed bank should be maximized where asymmetry was maximized. However, this knowledge was still limited and unconfirmed. In this study, the desert steppe, typical steppe and the transition zone between them (with the highest asymmetry) were selected for studying the similarity index in both 2018 (dry year) and 2019 (wet year). Plant species composition was monitored in situ using an unmanned aerial vehicle. Soil seed bank samples were collected, and the seed bank density and species composition were then examined and identified in the laboratory. Results showed that: (1) The variation in vegetation species richness between the two years was the highest (41%) in the transition zone (p < 0.05), while it was only 7% and 13% for the desert steppe and typical steppe, respectively. The presence of herbaceous species mainly caused the differences in variation among three grassland types. (2) Seed density was the highest in the transition zone (114 seeds/m2 and 68 seeds/m2 in the transient and persistent soil seed bank, respectively) (p < 0.05). Additionally, herbaceous species were the main components of the soil seed bank. (3) The similarity index was the highest in the transition zone (p < 0.05), with 38%/44% and 33%/44% for the transient/persistent soil seed bank in 2018 and 2019, respectively. Our study demonstrated that variation in vegetation species composition was very similar to the composition of the seeds accumulated in the soil seed bank. These results warrant further investigation for the mechanism of asymmetric response of productivity to precipitation.