bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calcium Sulfate and Plasma Rich in Growth Factors Enhance Bone Regeneration after Extraction of the Mandibular Third Molar: A Proof of Concept Study
Authors: Huchim-Chablé María , de Arredondo Roberto Sosa-Martínez , Rivero-Navarrete José Alberto , Mendiburu-Zavala Celia , Cárdenas-Erosa Rubén , Peñaloza-Cuevas Ricardo
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the mixture of Calcium Sulfate and Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (CaSO4 + PRGF) as a bone-graft substitute in extracted mandibular third molar (MTM) alveoli during a 4-month period. Bilateral MTM extractions were performed in 10 patients (18–25 years) at the Oral-Surgery-Clinic of the Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY). A CaSO4 + PRGF mixture was placed in the right alveolus (Experimental Group (EG)) and a natural blood clot in the left (Control Group (CG)). Monthly X-ray controls were performed using a gray scale to measure Bone Regeneration (BR). A non-parametric Sign Test was used to evaluate Radiopacity/Bone Regeneration (Ro/BR) over 4 months, and a Friedman’s non-parametric test was used for intra-group analysis over these months. The study was approved by the Centro de Investigaciones Regionales (Dr. Hideyo Noguchi, UADY Bioethics Committee, ID 0026-2015). Using a non-parametric test of the sign, the EG showed significant difference of Ro/BR between groups p = 0.002 (p < 0.05). Significant differences were observed in all quadrants and areas p = 0.002 (p < 0.05) except in area A in month 4 (p = 0.016), which could be explained by its being the closest to native bone. EG CaSO4 + PRGF showed a higher degree of bone regeneration compared to CG.
Physical-Mechanical Properties of Stone Masonry of Gjirokastër, Albania
Authors: Mustafaraj Enea , Luga Erion , Corradi Marco , Borri Antonio , Muceku Ylber , Zharkalli Aleksandra
Published: February 2021

In addition to reinforced concrete and steel buildings, a large part of the existing building stock in Europe is made of stone masonry. Prediction of the structural behavior requires the development of a systematic material characterization of the mechanical properties and structural details (units, arrangement, bonding, inter-connection). This study aims to analyze the mechanical and physical behavior of building stones in the historical city of Gjirokastër, Albania, known also as the Stone City. A thorough investigation of the regional stone quarries was performed, and the collected samples were cut into regular prismatic specimens for further analysis. The experimental campaign consisted of the determination of flexural strength and compressive strength, water absorption, porosity, specific gravity as well as structural analysis of the masonry material, using the MQI (Masonry Quality Index) method. The test results showed that there is a large scattering in the values of the mechanical and physical stone properties such as compressive strength varying from 20 to 115 MPa and flexural strength from 8 to 25 MPa. However, the analysis of the masonry material revealed a satisfactory structural performance, based on a frequent, systematic respect of the good construction practices (i.e., the rules of the art) in Gjirokastër.
Coir Fibers Treated with Henna as a Potential Reinforcing Filler in the Synthesis of Polyurethane Composites
Authors: Członka Sylwia , Strąkowska Anna , Kairytė Agnė
Published: February 2021

In this study, coir fibers were successfully modified with henna (derived from the Lawsonia inermis plant) using a high-energy ball-milling process. In the next step, such developed filler was used as a reinforcing filler in the production of rigid polyurethane (PUR) foams. The impact of 1, 2, and 5 wt % of coir-fiber filler on structural and physico-mechanical properties was evaluated. Among all modified series of PUR composites, the greatest improvement in physico-mechanical performances was observed for PUR composites reinforced with 1 wt % of the coir-fiber filler. For example, on the addition of 1 wt % of coir-fiber filler, the compression strength was improved by 23%, while the flexural strength increased by 9%. Similar dependence was observed in the case of dynamic-mechanical properties—on the addition of 1 wt % of the filler, the value of glass transition temperature increased from 149 °C to 178 °C, while the value of storage modulus increased by ~80%. It was found that PUR composites reinforced with coir-fiber filler were characterized by better mechanical performances after the UV-aging.
Biomedical Radioactive Glasses for Brachytherapy
Authors: Baino Francesco , Fiume Elisa , Ciavattini Sara , Kargozar Saeid , Borges Roger , Genova Luis A. , Marchi Juliana , Verné Enrica
Published: February 2021

The fight against cancer is an old challenge for mankind. Apart from surgery and chemotherapy, which are the most common treatments, use of radiation represents a promising, less invasive strategy that can be performed both from the outside or inside the body. The latter approach, also known as brachytherapy, relies on the use of implantable beta-emitting seeds or microspheres for killing cancer cells. A set of radioactive glasses have been developed for this purpose but their clinical use is still mainly limited to liver cancer. This review paper provides a picture of the biomedical glasses developed and experimented for brachytherapy so far, focusing the discussion on the production methods and current limitations of the available options to their diffusion in clinical practice. Highly-durable neutron-activatable glasses in the yttria-alumina-silica oxide system are typically preferred in order to avoid the potentially-dangerous release of radioisotopes, while the compositional design of degradable glass systems suitable for use in radiotherapy still remains a challenge and would deserve further investigation in the near future.
Antiviral and Immunomodulation Effects of Artemisia
Authors: Kshirsagar Suhas G. , Rao Rammohan V.
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: Artemisia is one of the most widely distributed genera of the family Astraceae with more than 500 diverse species growing mainly in the temperate zones of Europe, Asia and North America. The plant is used in Chinese and Ayurvedic systems of medicine for its antiviral, antifungal, antimicrobial, insecticidal, hepatoprotective and neuroprotective properties. Research based studies point to Artemisia’s role in addressing an entire gamut of physiological imbalances through a unique combination of pharmacological actions. Terpenoids, flavonoids, coumarins, caffeoylquinic acids, sterols and acetylenes are some of the major phytochemicals of the genus. Notable among the phytochemicals is artemisinin and its derivatives (ARTs) that represent a new class of recommended drugs due to the emergence of bacteria and parasites that are resistant to quinoline drugs. This manuscript aims to systematically review recent studies that have investigated artemisinin and its derivatives not only for their potent antiviral actions but also their utility against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Materials and Methods: PubMed Central, Scopus and Google scholar databases of published articles were collected and abstracts were reviewed for relevance to the subject matter. Conclusions: The unprecedented impact that artemisinin had on public health and drug discovery research led the Nobel Committee to award the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2015 to the discoverers of artemisinin. Thus, it is clear that Artemisia’s importance in indigenous medicinal systems and drug discovery systems holds great potential for further investigation into its biological activities, especially its role in viral infection and inflammation.
Branched Sulfonimide-Based Proton Exchange Polymer Membranes from Poly(Phenylenebenzopheneone)s for Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Sutradhar Sabuj Chandra , Yoon Sujin , Ryu Taewook , Jin Lei , Zhang Wei , Kim Whangi , Jang Hohyoun
Published: February 2021

Improved proton conductivity and high durability are now a high concern for proton exchange membranes (PEMs). Therefore, highly proton conductive PEMs have been synthesized from branched sulfonimide-based poly(phenylenebenzophenone) (SI-branched PPBP) with excellent thermal and chemical stability. The branched polyphenylene-based carbon-carbon backbones of the SI-branched PPBP membranes were attained from the 1,4-dichloro-2,5-diphenylenebenzophenone (PBP) monomer using 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene as a branching agent (0.1%) via the Ni-Zn catalyzed C-C coupling reaction. The as-synthesized SI-branched PPBP membranes showed 1.00~1.86 meq./g ion exchange capacity (IEC) with unique dimensional stability. The sulfonimide groups of the SI-branched PPBP membranes had improved proton conductivity (75.9–121.88 mS/cm) compared to Nafion 117 (84.74 mS/cm). Oxidation stability by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fenton’s test study confirmed the significant properties of the SI-branched PPBP membranes. Additionally, a very distinct microphase separation between the hydrophobic and hydrophilic moieties was observed using atomic force microscopic (AFM) analysis. The properties of the synthesized SI-branched PPBP membranes demonstrate their viability as an alternative PEM material.
Structure Assignment of Seized Products Containing Cathinone Derivatives Using High Resolution Analytical Techniques
Authors: Gonçalves João L. , Alves Vera L. , Aguiar Joselin , Caldeira Maria J. , Teixeira Helena M. , Câmara José S.
Published: February 2021

The innovation of the new psychoactive substances (NPS) market requires the rapid identification of new substances that can be a risk to public health, in order to reduce the damage from their use. Twelve seized products suspected to contain illicit substances were analyzed by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Synthetic cathinones (SCat) were found in all products, either as a single component or in mixtures. Infrared spectra of all products were consistent with the molecular structure of SCat, showing an intense absorption band at 1700–1674 cm−1, corresponding to the carbonyl stretching, a medium/strong peak at 1605–1580 cm−1, indicating stretching vibrations in the aromatic ring (C=C) and bands with relative low intensity at frequencies near 2700–2400 cm−1, corresponding to an amine salt. It was possible to identify a total of eight cathinone derivatives by GC-MS and NMR analysis: 4′-methyl-α-pyrrolidinohexanophenone (MPHP), α-pyrrolidinohexanophenone (α-PHP), 3-fluoromethcathinone (3-FMC), methedrone, methylone, buphedrone, N-ethylcathinone, and pentedrone. Among the adulterants found in these samples, caffeine was the most frequently detected substance, followed by ethylphenidate. These results highlight the prevalence of SCat in seized materials of the Portuguese market. Reference standards are usually required for confirmation, but when reference materials are not available, the combination of complementary techniques is fundamental for a rapid and an unequivocal identification of such substances.
All-Dielectric Color Filter with Ultra-Narrowed Linewidth
Authors: Xu Kai , Meng Yanlong , Chen Shufen , Li Yi , Wu Zhijun , Jin Shangzhong
Published: February 2021

In this paper, a transmissive color filter with an ultra-narrow full width at half of the maximum is proposed. Exploiting a material with a high index of refraction and an extremely low extinction coefficient in the visible range allows the quality factor of the filter to be improved. Three groups of GaP/SiO2 pairs are used to form a Distributed Brag reflector in a symmetrical Fabry-Pérot cavity. A band-pass filter which is composed of ZnS/SiO2 pairs is also introduced to further promote the purity of the transmissive spectrum. The investigation manifests that a series of tuned spectrum with an ultra-narrow full width at half of the maximum in the full visible range can be obtained by adjusting the thickness of the SiO2 interlayer. The full width at half of the maximum of the transmissive spectrum can reach 2.35 nm. Simultaneously, the transmissive efficiency in the full visible range can keep as high as 0.75. Our research provides a feasible and cost-effective way for realizing filters with ultra-narrowed linewidth.
A Study on the Effect of Flow Unsteadiness on the Yield of a Chemical Reaction in a T Micro-Reactor
Authors: Mariotti Alessandro , Antognoli Matteo , Galletti Chiara , Mauri Roberto , Salvetti Maria Vittoria , Brunazzi Elisabetta
Published: February 2021

Despite the very simple geometry and the laminar flow, T-shaped microreactors have been found to be characterized by different and complex steady and unsteady flow regimes, depending on the Reynolds number. In particular, flow unsteadiness modifies strongly the mixing process; however, little is known on how this change may affect the yield of a chemical reaction. In the present work, experiments and 3-dimensional numerical simulations are carried out jointly to analyze mixing and reaction in a T-shaped microreactor with the ultimate goal to investigate how flow unsteadiness affects the reaction yield. The onset of the unsteady asymmetric regime enhances the reaction yield by more than 30%; however, a strong decrease of the yield back to values typical of the vortex regime is observed when the flow undergoes a transition to the unsteady symmetric regime.
Recent Advances in Lipid-Based Nanosystems for Gemcitabine and Gemcitabine–Combination Therapy
Authors: Habib Saffiya , Singh Moganavelli
Published: February 2021

The anti-metabolite drug gemcitabine is widely used for the treatment of a variety of cancers. At present, gemcitabine is administered as a hydrochloride salt that is delivered by slow intravenous injection in cycles of three or four weeks. Although regarded as a ‘front-line’ chemotherapeutic agent, its efficacy is hampered by poor target cell specificity, sub-optimal cellular uptake, rapid clearance from circulation, the development of chemoresistance, and undesirable side-effects. The use of organic, inorganic, and metal-based nanoparticles as delivery agents presents an opportunity to overcome these limitations and safely harness optimal drug efficacy and enhance their therapeutic indices. Among the many and varied nano delivery agents explored, the greatest body of knowledge has been generated in the field of lipid-mediated delivery. We review here the liposomes, niosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, exosomes, lipid-polymer hybrids, and other novel lipid-based agents that have been developed within the past six years for the delivery of gemcitabine and its co-drugs.
The Equity and Effectiveness of Achieving Canada’s Voluntary Sodium Reduction Guidance Targets: A Modelling Study Using the 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey—Nutrition
Authors: Smith Brendan T. , Hack Salma , Jessri Mahsa , Arcand JoAnne , McLaren Lindsay , L’Abbé Mary R. , Anderson Laura N. , Hobin Erin , Hammond David , Manson Heather , Rosella Laura C. , Manuel Douglas G.
Published: February 2021

Background: High sodium intake is a leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. This study estimated full compliance to Canada’s voluntary sodium reduction guidance (SRG) targets on social inequities and population sodium intake. Methods: We conducted a modeling study using n = 19,645, 24 h dietary recalls (Canadians ≥ 2 years) from the 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey—Nutrition (2015 CCHS-N). Multivariable linear regressions were used to estimate mean sodium intake in measured (in the 2015 CCHS-N) and modelled (achieving SRG targets) scenarios across education, income and food security. The percentage of Canadians with sodium intakes above chronic disease risk reduction (CDRR) thresholds was estimated using the US National Cancer Institute (NCI) method. Results: In children aged 2–8, achieving SRG targets reduced mean sodium intake differences between food secure and insecure households from 271 mg/day (95%CI: 75,468) to 83 mg/day (95%CI: −45,212); a finding consistent across education and income. Mean sodium intake inequities between low and high education households were eliminated for females aged 9–18 (96 mg/day, 95%CI: −149,341) and adults aged 19 and older (males: 148 mg/day, 95%CI: −30,327; female: −45 mg/day, 95%CI: −141,51). Despite these declines (after achieving the SRG targets) the majority of Canadians’ are above the CDRR thresholds. Conclusion: Achieving SRG targets would eliminate social inequities in sodium intake and reduce population sodium intake overall; however, additional interventions are required to reach recommended sodium levels.
Dietary Phosphorus as a Marker of Mineral Metabolism and Progression of Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Winiarska Agata , Filipska Iwona , Knysak Monika , Stompór Tomasz
Published: February 2021

Phosphorus is an essential nutrient that is critically important in the control of cell and tissue function and body homeostasis. Phosphorus excess may result in severe adverse medical consequences. The most apparent is an impact on cardiovascular (CV) disease, mainly through the ability of phosphate to change the phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells and its contribution to pathologic vascular, valvular and other soft tissue calcification. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the most prevalent chronic disease manifesting with the persistent derangement of phosphate homeostasis. Diabetes and resulting diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remain the leading causes of CKD and end-stage kidney disease (ESRD) worldwide. Mineral and bone disorders of CKD (CKD-MBD), profound derangement of mineral metabolism, develop in the course of the disease and adversely impact on bone health and the CV system. In this review we aimed to discuss the data concerning CKD-MBD in patients with diabetes and to analyze the possible link between hyperphosphatemia, certain biomarkers of CKD-MBD and high dietary phosphate intake on prognosis in patients with diabetes and DKD. We also attempted to clarify if hyperphosphatemia and high phosphorus intake may impact the onset and progression of DKD. Careful analysis of the available literature brings us to the conclusion that, as for today, no clear recommendations based on the firm clinical data can be provided in terms of phosphorus intake aiming to prevent the incidence or progression of diabetic kidney disease.
Two Faces of Vitamin C in Hemodialysis Patients: Relation to Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Chaghouri Patrick , Maalouf Nour , Peters Sophia Lorina , Nowak Piotr Jan , Peczek Katarzyna , Zasowska-Nowak Anna , Nowicki Michal
Published: February 2021

Hemodialysis (HD) is the most common method of renal replacement therapy. Besides toxins, it eliminates nutrients from the circulation, such as ascorbic acid (AA). HD-patients present AA deficiency more often than representatives of the general population, also due to dietary restrictions. This condition aggravates oxidative stress and inflammation related to uremia and extracorporeal circulation and increases cardiovascular risk followed by mortality. Supplementation of AA seems to be a promising approach in the treatment of hemodialysis patients. Many successful interventions restored plasma AA concentration in HD patients by enteral or intravenous supplementation, concomitantly inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation. A significant number of studies reported opposite, serious pro-oxidant effects of AA. In this narrative review, we present studies, commenting on their limitations; on AA plasma or serum concentration and the influence of its supplementation on protein and lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, reactive oxygen species generation, paraoxonase activity, advanced glycation endproducts, and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration. Moreover, in terms of safety, the possible development of oxalosis in HD patients regarding the intravenous or enteral route of AA administration is discussed. Unequivocal clinical results of recent studies on hemodialysis patients are displayed.
Synthesis, Biological Activity and In Silico Pharmacokinetic Prediction of a New 2-Thioxo-Imidazoldidin-4-One of Primaquine
Authors: Pereira Mariana , Caljon Guy , Gouveia Maria João , Maes Louis , Vale Nuno
Published: February 2021

The discovery of novel antiparasitic drugs for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) constitutes a global urgency and requires a range of innovative strategies to ensure a sustainable pipeline of lead compounds. Thus far, primaquine (PQ) is the only transmission-blocking antimalarial that is clinically available, displaying marked activity against gametocytes of all causative species of human malaria (Plasmodium spp.). Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, is another PQ-sensitive illness besides malaria. One of the major drawbacks of PQ is its metabolism into carboxyprimaquine (CPQ), which is less active than the parent drug. In this study, we developed different synthetic pathways to confer N-protection to PQ through introduction of thioxo-imidazolidin-4-one. The introduction of this group prevents the formation of CPQ, counteracting one major drawback of the parent drug. After that, we evaluated the potential biological activity of the novel 2-thioxo-imidazolidin-4-one derivative of PQ, which showed relevant in vitro activity against Trypanosoma cruzi (IC50 1.4 μM) compared to PQ (IC50 1.7 μM) and the reference drug benznidazole (IC50 1.6 μM). Noting its acceptable pharmacokinetic profile, this PQ conjugate may be a potential scaffold for novel drug exploration against Chagas disease.
Antifungal Activity of 1,4-Dialkoxynaphthalen-2-Acyl Imidazolium Salts by Inducing Apoptosis of Pathogenic Candida spp.
Authors: Lee Jisue , Kim Jae-Goo , Lee Haena , Lee Tae Hoon , Kim Ki-Young , Kim Hakwon
Published: February 2021

Even though Candida spp. are staying commonly on human skin, it is also an opportunistic pathogenic fungus that can cause candidiasis. The emergence of resistant Candida strains and the toxicity of antifungal agents have encouraged the development of new classes of potent antifungal agents. Novel naphthalen-2-acyl imidazolium salts (NAIMSs), especially 1,4-dialkoxy-NAIMS from 1,4-dihydroxynaphthalene, were prepared and evaluated for antifungal activity. Those derivatives showed prominent anti-Candida activity with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 3.125 to 6.26 μg/mL in 24 h based on microdilution antifungal susceptibility test. Among the tested compounds, NAIMS 7c showed strongest antifungal activity with 3.125 μg/mL MIC value compared with miconazole which showed 12.5 μg/mL MIC value against Candida spp., and more importantly >100 μg/mL MIC value against C. auris. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was increased and JC-1 staining showed the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in C. albicans by treatment with NAIMS 7c. The increased release of ultraviolet (UV) absorbing materials suggested that NAIMS 7c could cause cell busting. The expression of apoptosis-related genes was induced in C. albicans by NAIMS 7c treatment. Taken together, the synthetic NAIMSs are of high interest as novel antifungal agents given further in vivo examination.
Integration of a Virtual Dispensing Simulator “MyDispense” in an Experiential Education Program to Prepare Students for Community Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience
Authors: Johnson Ashley E. , Barrack Jillian , Fitzgerald Jill M. , Sobieraj Diana M. , Holle Lisa M.
Published: February 2021

Background: Technology is increasingly used to enhance pharmacy education. We sought to evaluate student learning and preparedness for community introductory pharmacy practice experiences (IPPEs) after implementation of “MyDispense” into experiential education. Methods: Both first-year pharmacy students and assigned community IPPE preceptors were eligible. Students were stratified based on previous community pharmacy experience (< or ≥ 50 h), then randomized to complete MyDispense exercises before IPPE (group A) or after 24–32 h of IPPE (group B). We evaluated preceptors’ assessment of student readiness using a 6-item Likert scale survey and students’ readiness and opinion of MyDispense using an anonymous 9-item survey. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize data. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare groups and a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of 177 eligible students, 155 were randomized and 56 completed study. Group A included 32 students; 56.3% had prior community practice experience. Group B included 24 students; 50% had prior community practice experience. Forty-eight preceptors were enrolled. Students who completed exercises before rotation received higher preceptor scores for patient counseling of self-care and of medications (p < 0.05 for both). Students self-assessed their counseling skills lower than all other skills; 30.4% and 42.9% of students felt mostly or always prepared to counsel for self-care and medications, respectively. Students found MyDispense straightforward, realistic, and appreciated the ability to practice in a safe, electronic, community pharmacy, patient-care environment. Conclusion: Simulation-based software, such as MyDispense, can enhance learner understanding of the prescription fill and counseling process in a community pharmacy practice setting.
Response of Tomato Genotypes under Different High Temperatures in Field and Greenhouse Conditions
Authors: Ro Sophoanrith , Chea Leangsrun , Ngoun Sreymey , Stewart Zachary P. , Roeurn Siranet , Theam Penghieng , Lim Sathya , Sor Rathana , Kosal Meas , Roeun Malean , Dy Kim Sreang , Prasad P. V. Vara
Published: February 2021

Heat stress is one of the production constraints for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) due to unfavorable, above optimum temperatures. This research was undertaken to evaluate growth and fruit yield of tomato genotypes under three contrasting growing conditions (i.e., optimal temperature in field-, high temperature in field- and high temperature in greenhouse conditions) to determine their relative heat tolerance. Eleven tomato genotypes, including two local check varieties, were evaluated, and data on growth and yield were measured and analyzed. The interactions between the genotypes and growing conditions for all yield traits were significant. In general, the performance of tomato under optimal temperature field conditions was better than under high temperature field- and greenhouse conditions. Genotypes CLN1621L, CLN2026D, CLN3212C, and KK1 had consistently greater fruit yield per plant in all growing conditions. Although the local genotype, Neang Tamm, had lower yield under optimal conditions, it performed moderately well under high temperature field- and high temperature greenhouse conditions, and yield decrease under high temperature condition was minimal. Genotype CLN1621L had stable fruit setting compared to other genotypes under high temperature conditions. Since fruit setting and yield are important traits for heat tolerance, genotypes CLN1621L and Neang Tamm are potential candidates for breeding programs focused on improved yield and heat stress tolerance.
DNA Modification Patterns within the Transposable Elements of the Fig (Ficus carica L.) Genome
Authors: Usai Gabriele , Vangelisti Alberto , Simoni Samuel , Giordani Tommaso , Natali Lucia , Cavallini Andrea , Mascagni Flavia
Published: February 2021

Transposable element activity can be harmful to the host’s genome integrity, but it can also provide selective advantages. One strategy to cope with transposons is epigenetic control through DNA base modifications. We report the non-canonic DNA modification dynamics of fig (Ficus carica L.) by exploiting high-quality genome reference and related N4-methylcytosine (4mC) and N6-methyladenine (6mA) data. Overall, 1.49% of transposon nucleotides showed either 4mC or 6mA modifications: the 4mC/6mA ratio was similar in Class I and Class II transposons, with a prevalence of 4mC, which is comparable to coding genes. Different percentages of 4mC or 6mA were observed among LTR-retrotransposon lineages and sub-lineages. Furthermore, both the Copia and Gypsy retroelements showed higher modification rates in the LTR and coding regions compared with their neighbour regions. Finally, the unconventional methylation of retrotransposons is unrelated to the number of close genes, suggesting that the 4mC and 6mA frequency in LTR-retrotransposons should not be related to transcriptional repression in the adjacency of the element. In conclusion, this study highlighted unconventional DNA modification patterns in fig transposable elements. Further investigations will focus on functional implications, in regards to how modified retroelements affect the expression of neighbouring genes, and whether these epigenetic markers can spread from repeats to genes, shaping the plant phenotype.
Pomegranate Peel Extracts as Safe Natural Treatments to Control Plant Diseases and Increase the Shelf-Life and Safety of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Belgacem Imen , Li Destri Nicosia Maria G. , Pangallo Sonia , Abdelfattah Ahmed , Benuzzi Massimo , Agosteo Giovanni E. , Schena Leonardo
Published: February 2021

Although the Green Revolution was a milestone in agriculture, it was accompanied by intensive use of synthetic pesticides, which has raised serious concerns due to their impact on human and environmental health. This is increasingly stimulating the search for safer and more eco-friendly alternative means to control plant diseases and prevent food spoilage. Among the proposed alternatives, pomegranate peel extracts (PPEs) are very promising because of their high efficacy. In the present review, we discuss the complex mechanisms of action that include direct antimicrobial activity and induction of resistance in treated plant tissues and highlight the importance of PPE composition in determining their activity. The broad spectrum of activity, wide range of application and high efficiency of PPEs against bacterial, fungal and viral plant pathogens suggest a potential market not only restricted to organic production but also integrated farming systems. Considering that PPEs are non-chemical by-products of the pomegranate industry, they are perceived as safe by the public and may be integrated in circular economy strategies. This will likely encourage agro-pharmaceutical industries to develop commercial formulations and speed up the costly process of registration.
Thermoset Polymer Matrix Composites of Epoxy, Unsaturated Polyester, and Novolac Resin Embedding Construction and Demolition Wastes powder: A Comparative Study
Authors: Bogiatzidis Costas , Zoumpoulakis Loukas
Published: February 2021

Composite materials that consisted of a polymer resin as matrix (PMCs), filled using construction and demolition (C&D) wastes powder of different grain sizing in micro-scale were manufactured and studied. Three different kinds of resins were used as the matrix for the purposes of this study. More specifically, composites made of epoxy and unsaturated polyester resins purchased from the market and phenolic resin (novolac) laboratory synthesized, were produced. The morphological and elemental analysis of these materials was performed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Additionally, mechanical performance and thermal insulating efficiency of these materials were examined through bending and shear strength tests according to the three-point method and via determination of the thermal conductivity coefficient λ. C&D wastes have undergone the appropriate processing in order to prepare filling products of the required granular size in pulverized form. In this research study, construction and demolition waste-based thermosetting polymer composites were produced with flexural strength in the range 20–60 MPa, shear strength in between 1–8 MPa, and thermal conductivity coefficients in the range of 0.27–1.20 W/mK. The developed materials embedded 30–50% w/w C&D wastes, depending on the resin used as the matrix.
Realization of Circular Economy of 3D Printed Plastics: A Review
Authors: Zhu Caihan , Li Tianya , Mohideen Mohamedazeem M. , Hu Ping , Gupta Ramesh , Ramakrishna Seeram , Liu Yong
Published: February 2021

3D printing technology is a versatile technology. The waste of 3D printed plastic products is a matter of concern because of its impact on the circular economy. In this paper, we discuss the current status and problems of 3D printing, different methods of 3D printing, and applications of 3D printing. This paper focuses on the recycling and degradation of different 3D printing materials. The degradation, although it can be done without pollution, has restrictions on the type of material and time. Degradation using ionic liquids can yield pure monomers but is only applicable to esters. The reprocessing recycling methods can re-utilize the excellent properties of 3D printed materials many times but are limited by the number of repetitions of 3D printed materials. Although each has its drawbacks, the great potential of the recycling of 3D printed waste plastics is successfully demonstrated with examples. Various recycling approaches provide the additional possibility of utilizing 3D printing waste to achieve more efficient circular application.
Improvement of a Specific Culture Medium Based on Industrial Glucose for Carotenoid Production by Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous
Authors: Torres-Haro Alejandro , Gschaedler Anne , Mateos-Díaz Juan C. , Herrera-López Enrique J. , Camacho-Ruíz Rosa M. , Arellano-Plaza Melchor
Published: February 2021

In this study, a low-cost chemically defined (CD) culture medium was proposed and evaluated with the aim of replacing culture media such as yeast mold (YM) and yeast peptone dextrose (YPD), commonly used for growth and carotenoid production by Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous. Initially, the CD culture medium was compared to the YM and YPD. The growth in optical density (OD) and carotenoid production (mg/L) of the cultures reached 4.88, 6.76, 5.79, and 0.67, 0.92, and 0.69, respectively. The CD culture served as the basis of an improved specific culture medium containing industrial glucose. Additionally, in this new formulation, vitamins, glutamate, and other compounds were evaluated. Industrial glucose more than doubled carotenoid production; however, the addition of vitamins was not essential for X. dendrorhous cultivation. Moreover, glutamate and Na2HPO4 proved to be highly significant factors (p-value < 0.05), increasing carotenoid biosynthesis from 0.67 to 1.33 mg/L. The specific culture was successfully used in a bioreactor at 2 L and 110 L pilot-scale levels, increasing carotenoid production up to 2 mg/L. It was demonstrated that the CD-specific culture medium is an efficient alternative to conventional culture media to carry out carotenoid production at the laboratory and pilot levels, with promising potential for industrial scaling.
Hydrodeoxygenation of Guaiacol over Pd–Co and Pd–Fe Catalysts: Deactivation and Regeneration
Authors: Tran Nga , Uemura Yoshimitsu , Trinh Thanh , Ramli Anita
Published: February 2021

In bio-oil upgrading, the activity and stability of the catalyst are of great importance for the catalytic hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) process. The vapor-phase HDO of guaiacol was investigated to clarify the activity, stability, and regeneration ability of Al-MCM-41 supported Pd, Co, and Fe catalysts in a fixed-bed reactor. The HDO experiment was conducted at 400 °C and 1 atm, while the regeneration of the catalyst was performed with an air flow at 500 °C for 240 min. TGA and XPS techniques were applied to study the coke deposit and metal oxide bond energy of the catalysts before and after HDO reaction. The Co and Pd–Co simultaneously catalyzed the CArO–CH3, CAr–OH, and multiple C–C hydrogenolyses, while the Fe and Pd–Fe principally catalyzed the CAr–OCH3 hydrogenolysis. The bimetallic Pd–Co and Pd–Fe showed a higher HDO yield and stability than monometallic Co and Fe, since the coke formation was reduced. The Pd–Fe catalyst presented a higher stability and regeneration ability than the Pd–Co catalyst, with consistent activity during three HDO cycles.
Hydroxy-tyrosol as a Free Radical Scavenging Molecule in Polymeric Hydrogels Subjected to Gamma-Ray Irradiation
Authors: Fiorini Mauro , Crognaletti Veronica , Sabry Omar , Scalise Lorenzo , Fattori Paolo
Published: February 2021

Biomedical engineering is employing hydrogels with increasingly exciting possibilities for the treatment and regeneration of pathologically altered, degenerated, or traumatized tissues. Still, the sterilization processes may undesirably change the chemical and physical properties of hydrogels through cross-linking reactions. This work aims to characterize a new method of producing polyethylene oxide (PEO) hydrogels exploiting hydroxy-tyrosol (HT), an anti-oxidant molecule derived from olive leaf and olive oil, as a free radical scavenger to either prevent or limit gamma-ray-induced cross-linking. For this purpose, we produced hydrogels with PEO with two different buffer solutions (phosphate and citrate), varying HT concentration. We analyzed hydrogel preparations before and after gamma-ray irradiation, assessing the viscosity through rheological analysis and the chemical changes through IR analysis. We performed high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis to measure residual HT in hydrogels after irradiation. The obtained results show that radiation-induced cross-linking and increase in viscosity of PEO hydrogels can be prevented by tailoring the concentration of HT as a free radical scavenging agent. Irradiation only consumes small amounts of HT; its presence in polymeric hydrogels can significantly impact biomedical applications by its anti-oxidant and anti-microbial activities.
Co-Treatment with Cefotaxime and High-Fructose Diet Inducing Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Gut Microbial Dysbiosis in Mice
Authors: Lee Yen-Peng , Chiu Chien-Chao , Chen Yi-Hsun , Huang Wen-Ching , Wang Yu-Chih , Chiu Ching-Feng , Lin Tien-Jen , Hung Shao-Wen , Liu Ju-Yun , Chuang Hsiao-Li
Published: February 2021

High fructose diet causes metabolic syndrome and induces host gut microbial dysbiosis and related obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Several antibiotic treatments could prevent fatty liver. However, there are studies that have demonstrated that a high-fructose diet could influence the gut microbial dysbiosis and induce fatty liver. The purpose of this study was performed to partially modify the gut bacterial composition with a single cefotaxime treatment, which might affect the fructose-induced NAFLD severity. The C57BL/6JNarl male mice were divided into four groups including vehicle/chow diet (VE-CD), vehicle/high-fructose diet (VE-FD), antibiotic (cefotaxime (CF))/CD, and CF/FD. The results showed that body weight gain, moderate hepatic steatosis severity, epididymal white adipose tissue hypertrophy, and insulin resistance occurrence with NAFLD-related symptoms were observed only in the CF-FD group. The raised protein expression of hepatic lipogenesis was observed in the CF-FD group, but lipolysis protein expression was no difference. The diversity and composition of microbiota were significantly reduced in the CF-FD group. The Erysipelatoclostridium, Enterobacteriaceae, Lachnospiraceae, and Escherichia Shigella were in increased abundance in the feces of CF-FD group compared with VE-FD group. The novel model reveals that particular antibiotics such as cefotaxime co-treatment with high-fructose diet may affect the gut microbiota accelerating the NAFLD and obesity.
Improved Boreal Forest Wildfire Fuel Type Mapping in Interior Alaska Using AVIRIS-NG Hyperspectral Data
Authors: Smith Christopher William , Panda Santosh K. , Bhatt Uma Suren , Meyer Franz J.
Published: February 2021

In Alaska the current wildfire fuel map products were generated from low spatial (30 m) and spectral resolution (11 bands) Landsat 8 satellite imagery which resulted in map products that not only lack the granularity but also have insufficient accuracy to be effective in fire and fuel management at a local scale. In this study we used higher spatial and spectral resolution AVIRIS-NG hyperspectral data (acquired as part of the NASA ABoVE project campaign) to generate boreal forest vegetation and fire fuel maps. Based on our field plot data, random forest classified images derived from 304 AVIRIS-NG bands at Viereck IV level (Alaska Vegetation Classification) had an 80% accuracy compared to the 33% accuracy of the LANDFIRE’s Existing Vegetation Type (EVT) product derived from Landsat 8. Not only did our product more accurately classify fire fuels but was also able to identify 20 dominant vegetation classes (percent cover >1%) while the EVT product only identified 8 dominant classes within the study area. This study demonstrated that highly detailed and accurate fire fuel maps can be created at local sites where AVIRIS-NG is available and can provide valuable decision-support information to fire managers to combat wildfires.
End-to-End Deep Graph Convolutional Neural Network Approach for Intentional Islanding in Power Systems Considering Load-Generation Balance
Authors: Sun Zhonglin , Spyridis Yannis , Lagkas Thomas , Sesis Achilleas , Efstathopoulos Georgios , Sarigiannidis Panagiotis
Published: February 2021

Intentional islanding is a corrective procedure that aims to protect the stability of the power system during an emergency, by dividing the grid into several partitions and isolating the elements that would cause cascading failures. This paper proposes a deep learning method to solve the problem of intentional islanding in an end-to-end manner. Two types of loss functions are examined for the graph partitioning task, and a loss function is added on the deep learning model, aiming to minimise the load-generation imbalance in the formed islands. In addition, the proposed solution incorporates a technique for merging the independent buses to their nearest neighbour in case there are isolated buses after the clusterisation, improving the final result in cases of large and complex systems. Several experiments demonstrate that the introduced deep learning method provides effective clustering results for intentional islanding, managing to keep the power imbalance low and creating stable islands. Finally, the proposed method is dynamic, relying on real-time system conditions to calculate the result.
TreeVibes: Modern Tools for Global Monitoring of Trees for Borers
Authors: Rigakis Iraklis , Potamitis Ilyas , Tatlas Nicolaos-Alexandros , Potirakis Stelios M. , Ntalampiras Stavros
Published: February 2021

Is there a wood-feeding insect inside a tree or wooden structure? We investigate several ways of how deep learning approaches can massively scan recordings of vibrations stemming from probed trees to infer their infestation state with wood-boring insects that feed and move inside wood. The recordings come from remotely controlled devices that sample the internal soundscape of trees on a 24/7 basis and wirelessly transmit brief recordings of the registered vibrations to a cloud server. We discuss the different sources of vibrations that can be picked up from trees in urban environments and how deep learning methods can focus on those originating from borers. Our goal is to match the problem of the accelerated—due to global trade and climate change— establishment of invasive xylophagus insects by increasing the capacity of inspection agencies. We aim at introducing permanent, cost-effective, automatic monitoring of trees based on deep learning techniques, in commodity entry points as well as in wild, urban and cultivated areas in order to effect large-scale, sustainable pest-risk analysis and management of wood boring insects such as those from the Cerambycidae family (longhorn beetles).
Fatigue-Induced Inter-Limb Asymmetries in Strength of the Hip Stabilizers, Postural Control and Gait Following a Unilateral Countermovement Vertical Jump Protocol
Authors: Konstantopoulos Ioannis , Kafetzakis Ioannis , Chatziilias Vasileios , Mandalidis Dimitris
Published: February 2021

It is generally accepted that neuromuscular overload and fatigue of one lower limb can affect the functional ability of the ipsilateral limb, and possibly the contralateral limb, increasing the likelihood of injury. The purpose of the current study was to examine the effect of a unilateral countermovement vertical jump (UCVJ) fatigue protocol on the neuromuscular function of the ipsilateral as well as the contralateral lower limb. The isometric strength of the hip stabilizers, postural control via posturographic analysis during the Y-Balance-Test (YBT), and the stance-phase-of-gait were assessed in 24 healthy physical active males and females before and after execution of a UCVJ fatigue protocol. The fatigue protocol included 5 sets of 20 maximum UCVJs performed on the supportive leg, with a 30-s break between sets. Following a 16.8% decline in vertical jump performance and an associated 2.3-fold increase in perceived exertion, our findings revealed significant post-fatigue inter-limb differences regarding postural control. The post-fatigue inter-limb differences regarding the isometric strength of the hip stabilizers and the stance-phase-of-gait parameters were not significant. Our findings showed that a 100 UCVJs session is likely to induce significant inter-limb differences in postural control, possibly increasing the risk of lower limb injury.
Meta-Evaluation for the Evaluation of Environmental Management: Standards and Practices
Authors: Ma Jing , Yin Zhaoyun , Guo Zhengbing
Published: February 2021

Environmental management plays a key role in the sustainable development of cities. The effectiveness of environmental management is commonly examined through some evaluation schemes, but the effectiveness of such evaluation schemes also needs to be verified. As such, in this study, meta-evaluation was creatively introduced into environmental management to improve the evaluation of environmental management (EEM). Meta-evaluation is the evaluation of an evaluation scheme, and can verify and enhance the evaluation quality. First, a set of new meta-evaluation standards and criteria was proposed based on the unique characteristics of environmental management, which made meta-evaluation standards more adaptable and effective. After that, the efficacy of the proposed meta-evaluation standards was verified through their application to two evaluation schemes used in different fields of EEM. Based on meta-evaluation, suggestions for improving these two EEM schemes were also provided. The major contributions of this study are to introduce meta-evaluation into environmental management, establish new evaluation standards, and examine the efficacy of EEM. The research showed that it is critical to carry out meta-evaluation before and/or after the implementation of EEM.
Financial Performance of Renewable and Fossil Power Sources in India
Authors: Shrimali Gireesh
Published: February 2021

This paper seeks to study and compare the historical and present-day financial performance and risk profile of the renewable energy and fossil fuel power sectors. Our findings are as follows. First, renewable energy power portfolios have historically shown more attractive investment characteristics including, on average, 12% higher annual returns, 20% lower annual volatility and 61% higher risk-adjusted returns. Second, investors perceive renewable energy power investments to be less risky than fossil fuel power investments, with the expected returns on debt to the fossil fuel power sector is at least 80 basis points higher than for expected returns on debt for the renewable energy power sector. Third, the main risk factors driving the risk perception of both renewable energy and fossil fuels are counterparty, grid and financial risks; counterparty risk is the most significant risk by far, followed by grid risk and then financial sector risk. Our findings have significant implications for investments in these technologies in India.