bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenylpropanoid Biosynthesis Gene Expression Precedes Lignin Accumulation During Shoot Development in Lowland and Upland Switchgrass Genotypes
Authors: Saha Prasenjit , Lin Fan , Thibivilliers Sandra , Xiong Yi , Pan Chongle , Bartley Laura E.
Published: August 2021

Efficient conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into biofuels is influenced by biomass composition and structure. Lignin and other cell wall phenylpropanoids, such as para-coumaric acid (pCA) and ferulic acid (FA), reduce cell wall sugar accessibility and hamper biochemical fuel production. Toward identifying the timing and key parameters of cell wall recalcitrance across different switchgrass genotypes, this study measured cell wall composition and lignin biosynthesis gene expression in three switchgrass genotypes, A4 and AP13, representing the lowland ecotype, and VS16, representing the upland ecotype, at three developmental stages [Vegetative 3 (V3), Elongation 4 (E4), and Reproductive 3 (R3)] and three segments (S1–S3) of the E4 stage under greenhouse conditions. A decrease in cell wall digestibility and an increase in phenylpropanoids occur across development. Compared with AP13 and A4, VS16 has significantly less lignin and greater cell wall digestibility at the V3 and E4 stages; however, differences among genotypes diminish by the R3 stage. Gini correlation analysis across all genotypes revealed that lignin and pCA, but also pectin monosaccharide components, show the greatest negative correlations with digestibility. Lignin and pCA accumulation is delayed compared with expression of phenylpropanoid biosynthesis genes, while FA accumulation coincides with expression of these genes. The different cell wall component accumulation profiles and gene expression correlations may have implications for system biology approaches to identify additional gene products with cell wall component synthesis and regulation functions.
Transcriptome and Biochemical Analysis Jointly Reveal the Effects of Bacillus cereus AR156 on Postharvest Strawberry Gray Mold and Fruit Quality
Authors: Yu Yi-Yang , Dou Guo-Xia , Sun Xing-Xing , Chen Lin , Zheng Ying , Xiao Hong-Mei , Wang Yun-Peng , Li Hong-Yang , Guo Jian-Hua , Jiang Chun-Hao
Published: August 2021

Postharvest strawberry is susceptible to gray mold disease caused by Botrytis cinerea, which seriously damage the storage capacity of fruits. Biological control has been implicated as an effective and safe method to suppress plant disease. The aim of this study is to evaluate the postharvest disease control ability of Bacillus cereus AR156 and explore the response of strawberry fruit to this biocontrol microorganism. Bacillus cereus AR156 treatment significantly suppressed gray mold disease and postponed the strawberry senescence during storage. The bacterium pretreatment remarkably enhanced the reactive oxygen-scavenging and defense-related activities of enzymes. The promotion on the expression of the encoding-genes was confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) that significantly increased the expression of the marker genes of salicylic acid (SA) signaling pathway, such as PR1, PR2, and PR5, instead of that of the jasmonic acid (JA)/ethylene (ET) pathway, which was also shown. Moreover, through transcriptome profiling, about 6,781 differentially expressed genes (DEGS) in strawberry upon AR156 treatment were identified. The gene ontology (GO) classification and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment indicated that AR156 altered the transcription of numerous transcription factors and genes involved in the SA-related plant disease resistance, metabolism, and biosynthesis of benzoxazinoids and flavonoids. This study offered a non-antagonistic Bacillus as a method for postharvest strawberry storage and disease control, and further revealed that the biocontrol effects were arisen from the induction of host responses on the transcription level and subsequent resistance-related substance accumulation.
Eight Years of Collaboration on Biosafety and Biosecurity Issues Between Kazakhstan and Germany as Part of the German Biosecurity Programme and the G7 Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction
Authors: Peintner Lukas , Wagner Edith , Shin Anna , Tukhanova Nur , Turebekov Nurkeldi , Abdiyeva Karlygash , Spaiser Olga , Serebrennikova Yelena , Tintrup Erik , Dmitrovskiy Andrey , Zhalmagambetova Aliya , Frey Stefan , Essbauer Sandra Simone
Published: August 2021

In 2013, the German Federal Foreign Office launched the German Biosecurity Programme with the aim to minimise risks associated with biological substances and pathogens. In this context, the German-Kazakh Network for Biosafety and Biosecurity was established in 2013 and constitutes a successful collaboration between Kazakh and German biomedical organisations, under the co-management of the Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology (IMB), and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. Ever since then, a network of scientists, stake holders and policymakers has been established, aiming to work on highly pathogenic, potential biological warfare agents with the focus on biosafety and biosecurity, surveillance, detection and diagnostics, networking and awareness raising of these agents in Kazakhstan. Over the past 8 years, the project members trained four PhD candidates, organised over 30 workshops and trainings with more than 250 participants and conducted more than 5,000 PCR assays and 5,000 serological analyses for surveillance. A great success was the description of new endemic areas for Orthohantaviruses, the mixture of two Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus genetic clusters, new foci and genetic information on tick-borne encephalitis virus and rickettsiae in Kazakh oblasts. The latter even led to the description of two new genogroups. Furthermore, joint contributions to international conferences were made. In this report, we summarise the evolution of the German-Kazakh Network for Biosafety and Biosecurity and critically reflect on the strengths and possible weaknesses. We were able to establish a viable network of biosafety and biosecurity shareholders and to accomplish the aims of the German Biosecurity Programme to lower biosecurity risks by increased awareness, improved detection and diagnostic methods and surveillance. Further, we reflect on forthcoming aspects to lead this interstate endeavour into a sustainable future.
Energy-Efficient Mobility Prediction Routing Protocol for Freely Floating Underwater Acoustic Sensor Networks
Authors: Alqahtani Ghida Jubran , Bouabdallah Fatma
Published: August 2021

Recently, there has been an increasing interest in monitoring and exploring underwater environments for scientific applications such as oceanographic data collection, marine surveillance, and pollution detection. Underwater acoustic sensor networks (UASNs) have been proposed as the enabling technology to observe, map, and explore the ocean. The unique characteristics of underwater aquatic environments such as low bandwidth, long propagation delays, and high energy consumption make the data forwarding process very difficult. Moreover, the mobility of the underwater sensors is considered an additional constraint for the success of the data forwarding process. That being said, most of the data forwarding protocols do not realistically consider the dynamic topology of underwater environment as sensor nodes move with the water currents, which is a natural phenomenon. In this research, we propose a mobility prediction optimal data forwarding (MPODF) protocol for UASNs based on mobility prediction. Indeed, by considering a realistic, physically inspired mobility model, our protocol succeeds to forward every generated data packet through one single best path without the need to exchange notification messages, thanks to the mobility prediction module. Simulation results show that our protocol achieves a high packet delivery ratio, high energy efficiency, and reduced end-to-end delay.
Ground Demonstration of the Use of Limnospira indica for Air Revitalization in a Bioregenerative Life-Support System Setup: Effect of Non-Nitrified Urine–Derived Nitrogen Sources
Authors: Sachdeva Neha , Poughon Laurent , Gerbi Olivier , Dussap Claude-Gilles , Lasseur Christophe , Leroy Baptiste , Wattiez Ruddy
Published: August 2021

Long-duration human space missions require considerable amounts of water, oxygen, and nutritious biomass. Additionally, the space vehicles must be well equipped to deal with metabolic human waste. It is therefore important to develop life-support systems which make these missions self-sufficient in terms of water, food, and oxygen production as well as waste management. One such solution is the employment of regenerative life-support systems that use biological and chemical/physical processes to recycle crew waste, revitalize air, and produce water and food. Photosynthetic cyanobacteria Limnospira could play a significant role in meeting these objectives. Limnospira can metabolize CO2 and nitrogen-rich human waste to produce oxygen and edible biomass. So far, life-support system studies have mainly focused on using chemical/physical methods to recycle water, degrade human waste, and recycle CO2 into oxygen. Nowadays, additional microbial processes are considered, such as nitrification of urea–ammonium–rich human waste and then using the nitrate for cyanobacterial cultivation and air vitalization. This cascade of multiple processes tends to increase the complexity of the life-support systems. The possibility of using non-nitrified urine for Limnospira cultivation can partially solve these issues. Our previous studies have shown that it is possible to cultivate Limnospira with urea and ammonium, the prominent nitrogen forms present in non-nitrified urine. In this study, we investigated the possibility of cultivating Limnospira with the different nitrogen forms present in non-nitrified urine and also evaluated their effect on the oxygen production capacity of Limnospira. For this 35-day-long study, we worked on a simplified version of the European Space Agency’s MELiSSA. During this ground demonstration study, we monitored the effect of urea and ammonium (vs. nitrate) on the oxygen production capacity of Limnospira. A deterministic control law, developed and validated on the basis of a stochastic light-transfer model, modulated (increase/decrease) the incident light on the photobioreactor (with Limnospira) to control oxygen levels in the closed loop. The CO2 from the mouse compartment was recycled as a carbon source for Limnospira. We observed that while the system could meet the desired oxygen levels of 20.3% under the nitrate and urea regime, it could only reach a maximum O2 level of 19.5% under the ammonium regime.
Prediction of the Complication Risk in Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis After Surgery: Development and Assessment of a Novel Nomogram
Authors: Wu Liwei , Dai Xiyong , Wang Haijiang , Huang Chaolin , Xia Fan , Song Yanzheng , Wang Lin
Published: August 2021

Background: Surgery is increasingly accepted as an adjunctive approach to treat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) or extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB). However, a model that includes all factors to predict the risk of postoperative complications is lacking.

Methods: We developed a prediction model based on 138 patients who had undergone surgery as treatment for drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) after 24 months. Clinical features on the lesion type (L), treatment history (T), physiologic status of the body (B), and surgical approach (S) were evaluated. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted by clinical features selected in the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) to build a nomogram. The discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness of the nomogram were assessed using the C-Index, calibration plots, and decision curves. Internal validation was assessed using bootstrapping.

Results: The nomogram contained the features L, B, T, cavitary, recurrent chest infection (RCI) and MDR-TB/XDR-TB. The model displayed good discrimination with a C-Index of 0.879 (95% CI: 0.799–0.967). A high C-Index of 0.824 was achieved in the interval validation. Decision-curve analysis showed that the nomogram was clinically useful if intervention was decided at the non-adherence possibility threshold of 4%.

Conclusion: Our novel nomogram could be used conveniently to predict postoperative complication risk in DR-TB patients.
Subcutaneous Vulvar Flap Viability Evaluation With Near-Infrared Probe and Indocyanine Green for Vulvar Cancer Reconstructive Surgery: A Feasible Technique
Authors: Capozzi Vito Andrea , Monfardini Luciano , Sozzi Giulio , Armano Giulia , Rosati Andrea , Gueli Alletti Salvatore , Cosentino Francesco , Ercoli Alfredo , Cianci Stefano , Berretta Roberto
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Vulvar cancer is a rare condition affecting older women and accounts for 3–5% of all gynecological cancers. Primary surgical treatment involves the removal of a large amount of tissue for which reconstructive surgery is often necessary with a high rate of postoperative complications. Despite several techniques for the evaluation of vulvar flap viability have been proposed, many methods cannot be performed during surgery and require expensive devices often missing in a gynecological clinic. This study aims to verify the feasibility and the safety of the vulvar flap viability evaluation through a near-infrared endoscopic probe and Indocyanine green (ICG) tracer in a small group of patients and to evaluate long-term vulvar flap outcomes.

Methods: Patients with primary vulvar cancer who required surgical treatment and subsequent vulvar flap reconstructive surgery were prospectively included in the study. A 25 mg ICG vial diluted in 20 ml of saline solution was intravenously infused before closing the skin edges of the flaps. All patients were given 0.2 mg/kg body weight of intravenous ICG. After 10–15 min, a near-infrared endoscopic probe was used to evaluate the vulvar flap viability.

Results: Of the 18 patients who underwent radical vulvectomy for vulvar cancer during the study period, 15 were included in the analysis. All packaged surgical flaps showed tracer uptake on the surgical margin. No intro-operative complications were recorded neither surgery-related nor to dye infusion. No surgical infection, dehiscence, or necrosis was recorded.

Conclusions: Vulvar flap viability assessment using Indocyanine green and a laparoscopic infrared probe is a feasible method. All cases included in the analysis showed a dye uptake on the surgical edge of the flap. Further, prospective studies are needed to confirm the method in clinical practice and to evaluate its superiority over simple subjective clinical evaluation.
Bovine Trichomonosis Cases in the United States 2015–2019
Authors: Martin Katy A. , Henderson Juli , Brewer Matthew T.
Published: August 2021

Tritrichomonas foetusis a sexually-transmitted protozoan parasite that causes early embryonic death in cattle.Tritrichomonas foetusis enzootic in the United States but is not a reportable disease at the national level. Thus, it is difficult to understand the prevalence and relative distribution of the disease for the purpose of developing appropriate control measures. In this study, a survey of state veterinarians was used to determine the number of reported cases in each state from 2015 to 2019. Our investigation revealed infections in 25 different states and a total of 3,817 reported cases nationwide. Infections occurred throughout different regions of the country, and numbers of cases were only weakly correlated with total number of cattle in each state.Tritrichomonas foetusis a significant pathogen in the United States and understanding the relative distribution of the parasite is useful for prioritizing surveillance and intervention strategies going forward.
Special Issue on Algorithms and Models for Dynamic Multiple Criteria Decision Making
Authors: Di Caprio Debora , Santos Arteaga Francisco Javier
Published: August 2021

The current Special Issue contains six papers focused on Multiple Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) problems and the formal techniques applied to derive consistent rankings of them [...]
Boundary-Adapted Numerical Modeling of Flow in a Hydrostatic Leadscrew
Authors: Su Zhe , Feng Xianying , Li Hui , Lu Jiajia , Wang Zhaoguo , Liu Yandong
Published: August 2021

A new method is presented to model and predict the flow fields of the hydrostatic leadscrews with greater accuracy. It is different from those available methods, in which various bearings are assumed to be equivalent to the screw-nut pair within a pitch by various means. In this new method, a helical coordinate system adapting to the boundaries of the flow fields is constructed, which makes the screw-nut meshing clearance calculated more accurate. Based on the finite difference method (FDM), the meshing clearance is discretized into a number of flow fields, which are created by numerous couples of parallel-plate elements moving relatively along the helicoid. The numerical model is solved in MATLAB, and the analyses about the pressure fields demonstrate its favorable performances in reflecting the actual flow fields. Furthermore, the simulation results are compared with the experimental values, confirming the feasibility of the proposed method.
Crosstalk between Nutrient Signalling Pathways and Immune Responses in Rice
Authors: Val-Torregrosa Beatriz , Bundó Mireia , San Segundo Blanca
Published: August 2021

Rice is a staple food for more than half of the global population. Rice production is, however, severely affected by biotic and abiotic stresses. Fertilisers and pesticides are widely used in rice farming to maintain optimal yield and to prevent losses caused by environmental stress. However, the indiscriminate use of agrochemicals has adverse effects on the environment and human health. Stress caused by nutrient excess or deficiency has an impact on plant disease resistance. The interference of plant responses induced by nutrient stress can result in a positive or negative impact on resistance to pathogen infection. In this review, we explore the effects of combined stresses in rice, focusing on nutrient stress, such as nitrogen and phosphorous supply, and infection by fungal pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae, the causal agent of rice blast disease. Crosstalk between nutrient stress-induced and pathogen-induced signalling pathways in rice is discussed, as well, with particular emphasis on regulatory microRNAs. Understanding the interconnected regulations between nutrient stress and disease resistance will lay a foundation for rationally optimising fertiliser and pesticide use in rice production.
Low Light Alters the Photosynthesis Process in Cigar Tobacco via Modulation of the Chlorophyll Content, Chlorophyll Fluorescence, and Gene Expression
Authors: Wu Xiaoying , Khan Rayyan , Gao Huajun , Liu Haobao , Zhang Juan , Ma Xinghua
Published: August 2021

Shading or low light (LL) conditions are a key and necessary cultivation technique in cigar wrapper tobacco production. However, the effect of low light on the photosynthesis in cigar tobacco is not clear. Therefore, this study is designed to know the photosynthesis of cigar tobacco under different light intensities (T200, T100, and T50 μmol m−2 s−1). The results reveal that under low light, T50 especially improved the light interception and increased carbon utilization, as witnessed by a higher specific leaf area and lower specific leaf weight. Low light intensity caused better light interception and carbon utilization in cigar tobacco leaves, and thus thinner leaves are more able to use low light efficiently. The chlorophyll content is related to the photosynthesis process; thus, LL affected the photosynthesis process by lowering the chlorophyll content. Similarly, LL also altered the photosynthetic efficiency by lowering the QY_Lss, qP_Lss, and Rfd_Lss. Additionally, higher expression of Lhcb4.2, Lhcb6, PsbA, PsbB, and PsbD under low light, especially T50, shows that the PSII and antenna proteins complex efficiently utilized the absorbed energy for photosynthesis. Finally, the lower photosynthesis, particularly in T50, is attributed to the downregulation of genes related to NADPH production (petH) and the rubisco enzyme synthesis-related gene (rbcs) for CO2 fixation in the Calvin cycle. Overall, the results show that the photosynthesis is decreased under LL intensities which might be related to lower chlorophyll content and downregulation of petH and rbcs genes.
Study on the Distribution Pattern of Threshed Mixture by Drum-Shape Bar-Tooth Longitudinal Axial Flow Threshing and Separating Device
Authors: Fu Jianwei , Xie Gan , Ji Chao , Wang Weikang , Zhou Yong , Zhang Guozhong , Zha Xiantao , Abdeen Mohamed Anwer
Published: August 2021

To determine the distribution pattern of the threshing and separating device, the simulation experiment on the distribution pattern of our self-designed drum-shape bar-tooth longitudinal axial flow threshing and separating device was carried out with the help of the EDEM software, by which the axial and radial distribution curve of the threshed mixture along the cylinder was acquired. The three-dimensional distribution of the mass of the threshed mixture was drawn by using the Matlab software, and the bench test was carried out on the self-built small-scale longitudinal axial flow threshing cylinder performance test platform, which was consistent with the simulation conditions. The results showed that the axial and radial distribution of the threshed mixture was uneven, and the axial distribution of the threshed mixture decreased gradually, which was mainly distributed in the first third section of the cylinder. The distribution of the threshed mixture along the radial area of the cylinder was gradually decreasing at first and then increasing, i.e., the total mass of the threshed mixture on the left and right sides was higher than that of the middle area, which was basically consistent with the simulation results. The research can provide reference for the optimization of structural parameters of threshing and separating device and cleaning system.
Ferulago campestris Essential Oil as Active Ingredient in Chitosan Seed-Coating: Chemical Analyses, Allelopathic Effects, and Protective Activity against the Common Bean Pest Acanthoscelides obtectus
Authors: Ascrizzi Roberta , Flamini Guido , Bedini Stefano , Tani Camilla , Giannotti Paolo , Lombardi Tiziana , Conti Barbara , Fraternale Daniele
Published: August 2021

Ferulago campestris is an aromatic plant, distributed in Mediterranean Europe, and a source of essential oils (EOs) regarded as promising alternatives to synthetic herbicides and pesticides. F. campestris EO, hydrodistilled and analyzed, was tested for its antigerminative activity and for its effect on radicle elongation, hydrogen peroxide concentration, and lipid peroxidation on four infesting weed species (Papaver rhoeas, Taraxacum campylodes, Poa annua, and Setaria verticillata) and on Phaseolus vulgaris. Its repellent ability was also tested against Acanthoscelides obtectus, a pest commonly affecting P. vulgaris during storage. Moreover, a chitosan coating layer was developed with the addition of F. campestris EO and tested for its toxic and oviposition-deterring effects against A. obtectus. Myrcene, α-pinene, and γ-terpinene were detected as the main compounds in F. campestris EO. The EO demonstrated a selective in vitro antigerminative activity towards the weed species, without affecting the bean seeds. Moreover, the chitosan coating layer exerted a dose-dependent repellent effect against A. obtectus adults, thus effectively protecting the bean seeds, while preserving their germinative ability. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on a chitosan–EO coating proposed with the aim of protecting bean seeds for sowing from insect attack.
Analgesic Effect of Butorphanol during Castration in Donkeys under Total Intravenous Anaesthesia
Authors: Straticò Paola , Carluccio Augusto , Varasano Vincenzo , Guerri Giulia , Suriano Riccardo , Robbe Domenico , Cerasoli Ilaria , Petrizzi Lucio
Published: August 2021

Pain management is necessary for all surgical procedures. Little scientific evidence about drug efficacy in donkeys is available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the analgesic effect of butorphanol in donkeys undergoing orchiectomy under total intravenous anaesthesia with guaifenesin-ketamine-detomidine. A randomized blinded prospective clinical trial (Protocol n. 2021/0000338), was carried out on 18 clinically healthy donkeys undergoing bilateral orchiectomy. Patients were assigned to Group D (n = 8) or Group DB (n = 10) if receiving intravenous detomidine or detomidine-butorphanol respectively, before induction of general anaesthesia with ketamine-diazepam. Intraoperative muscle relaxation, nystagmus, palpebral reflex, heart and respiratory rate, and non-invasive blood pressure were evaluated every 2 min; time to prepare the patient, duration of surgery and anaesthesia and recovery score were recorded. Group D had significantly longer surgical time, higher heart rate, higher systolic and mean blood pressure (p < 0.05; repeated measure ANOVA), increased muscle rigidity and expression of palpebral reflex (p < 0.05; Mann–Whitney U test) than group DB. Top-ups with thiopental were statistically higher in Group D. Butorphanol and detomidine together produced a more stable anaesthetic plan. The low dosage of opioid and alpha-2-agonists and reduced rescue anaesthesia are responsible for a safer and more superficial anaesthesia, which is mandatory under field conditions.
Microbial Dynamics and In Vitro Degradation of Plant Secondary Metabolites in Hanwoo Steer Rumen Fluids
Authors: Kim Dahye , Kuppusamy Palaniselvam , Jung Jeong Sung , Kim Kyoung Hoon , Choi Ki Choon
Published: August 2021

Plant secondary metabolite (PSM) degradations and feed breakdown into small particles may occur primarily in the rumen. It is possible to predict the rate and extent of feed disappearance in the rumen during incubation by different in vitro techniques, which differ based on the PSM structures, including phenolics, and flavonoids. However, PSM degradation and conversion efficiency in the rumen remains unclear. This study’s objective was to evaluate the in vitro degradation of a group of PSMs in the rumen fluid, collected from Hanwoo steer samples. PSMs including rutin, vitexin, myricetin, p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, quercetin, luteolin, propyl gallate, and kaempferol were used in their pure forms at 1mg/250 mL in a rumen fluid buffer system. The mixture of selected PSMs and buffer was incubated at 39 °C for 12–72 h, and samples were collected every 12 h and analyzed by a high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) to determine the biotransformation of the polyphenolics. The results revealed that the luteolin, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, coumaric acid, rutin, myricetin, vitexin, kaempferol, and quercetin were decreased after 12 h of incubation in the rumen fluid (p ≤ 0.05) and were more than 70% decreased at 72 h. In contrast, the propyl gallate concentrations were not significantly changed after 24 h of incubation in rumen fluid compared to other metabolites. Finally, microbial dynamics study showed that the Firmicutes, Bacterodetes, Actinobacteria, and Syngergistetes were the dominant phyla found in rumen fluids. The data suggest that most polyphenolic compounds may degrade or reform new complex structures in the rumen.
Cyclic and Acyclic Amine Oxide Alkyl Derivatives as Potential Adjuvants in Antimicrobial Chemotherapy against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus with an MDR Profile
Authors: Fagnani Lorenza , Nazzicone Lisaurora , Brisdelli Fabrizia , Giansanti Luisa , Battista Sara , Iorio Roberto , Petricca Sabrina , Amicosante Gianfranco , Perilli Mariagrazia , Celenza Giuseppe , Bellio Pierangelo
Published: August 2021

The dramatic intensification of antimicrobial resistance occurrence in pathogenic bacteria concerns the global community. The revitalisation of inactive antibiotics is, at present, the only way to go through this health system crisis and the use of antimicrobial adjuvants is turning out the most promising approach. Due to their low toxicity, eco-friendly characteristics and antimicrobial activity, amphoteric surfactants are good candidates. This study investigated the adjuvant potentialities of commercial acyclic and newly cyclic N-oxide surfactants combined with therapeutically available antibiotics against MDR methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The safety profile of the new cyclic compounds, compared to commercial surfactants, was preliminarily assessed, evaluating the cytotoxicity on human peripheral mononuclear blood cells and the haemolysis in human red blood cells. The compounds show an efficacious antimicrobial activity strongly related to the length of the carbon atom chain. In drug–drug interaction assays, all surfactants act synergistically, restoring sensitivity to oxacillin in MRSA, with dodecyl acyclic and cyclic derivatives being the most effective. After evaluating the cytotoxicity and considering the antimicrobial action, the most promising compound is the L-prolinol amine-oxide C12NOX. These findings suggest that the combination of antibiotics with amphoteric surfactants is a valuable therapeutic option for topical infections sustained by multidrug-resistant S. aureus.
Design, Synthesis and Antifungal Activity of Stapled Aurein1.2 Peptides
Authors: Zheng Mengjun , Wang Ruina , Chen Si , Zou Yan , Yan Lan , Zhao Linjing , Li Xiang
Published: August 2021

Aurein1.2 is a 13-residue antimicrobial peptide secreted by the Australian tree frog Litoria aurea. In order to improve its stabilities, the helical contents and corresponding biological activities of Aurein1.2 (a series of stapled analogues) were synthesized, and their potential antifungal activities were evaluated. Not surprisingly, the stapled Aurein1.2 peptides showed higher proteolytic stability and helicity than the linear counterpart. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ten stapled peptides against six strains of common pathogenic fungi was determined by the microscale broth dilution method recommended by CLSI. Of them, Sau-1, Sau-2, Sau-5, and Sau-9 exhibited better inhibitory effects on the fungi than the linear peptide. These stapled Aurein1.2 peptides may serve as the leading compounds for further optimization and antifungal therapy.
Towards Aldehydomics: Untargeted Trapping and Analysis of Reactive Diet-Related Carbonyl Compounds Formed in the Intestinal Lumen
Authors: Chevolleau Sylvie , Noguer-Meireles Maria-Helena , Mervant Loïc , Martin Jean-François , Jouanin Isabelle , Pierre Fabrice , Naud Nathalie , Guéraud Françoise , Debrauwer Laurent
Published: August 2021

Lipid peroxidation and subsequent formation of toxic aldehydes, such as 4-hydroxynonenal, is known to be involved in numerous pathophysiological processes, possibly including the development of colorectal cancer. This work aimed at the development of an untargeted approach using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC–HRMS) for tracking aldehydes in both suspect screening and untargeted methods in fecal water, representing the aqueous environment of colon epithelial cells. This original approach is based on the introduction of a characteristic isotopic labeling by selective derivatization of the carbonyl function using a brominated reagent. Following a metabolomics workflow, the developed methodology was applied to the characterization of aldehyde compounds formed by lipid peroxidation in rats fed two different diets differentially prone to lipoperoxidation. Derivatized aldehydes were first selectively detected on the basis of their isotopic pattern, then annotated and finally identified by tandem mass spectrometry. This original approach allowed us to evidence the occurrence of expected aldehydes according to their fatty acid precursors in the diet, and to characterize other aldehydes differentiating the different diets.
Dietary Curcumin Improves Energy Metabolism, Brain Monoamines, Carcass Traits, Muscle Oxidative Stability and Fatty Acid Profile in Heat-Stressed Broiler Chickens
Authors: Salah Ayman S. , Ahmed-Farid Omar A. , Nassan Mohamed Abdo , El-Tarabany Mahmoud S.
Published: August 2021

The aim of the present study was to elucidate the impacts of dietary curcumin supplementation on energy metabolism, brain monoamines and muscle oxidative stability in heat-stressed broilers. In total, 120 day-old chicks were allocated into three equal groups of four replicates. The first group (T1) was maintained on a thermoneutral condition, while the second group (T2) was subjected to 8 h of thermal stress (34 °C), and both groups fed the basal diet with no supplement. The third group (T3) was exposed to the same thermal stress conditions and fed the basal diet supplemented with curcumin (100 mg kg−1 diet). The dietary curcumin supplementation significantly increased the breast yield (p = 0.004), but reduced the percentage of abdominal fat (p = 0.017) compared with the T2 group. The addition of curcumin to broiler diets significantly improved the levels of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in breast and thigh muscles compared with the T2 group (p < 0.05). The curcumin-supplemented group showed significantly lower levels of malondialdehyde in the breast and thigh muscles than that of the T2 group (p = 0.001 and 0.015, respectively). The dietary curcumin supplementation significantly improved the levels of ATP and CoQ10 in liver tissues (p = 0.012 and 0.001, respectively) and brain serotonin (p = 0.006) as compared to the T2 group. Meanwhile, the heat-stressed group showed significantly higher levels of ADP and Na,K-ATPase in the liver tissues than that of the other experimental groups (p = 0.011 and 0.027, respectively). It could be concluded that dietary curcumin supplementation may improve carcass yield, energy biomarkers, brain serotonin and muscle oxidative stability of heat-stressed broiler chickens.
Bending Properties of Lightweight Copper Specimens with Different Infill Patterns Produced by Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing, Solvent Debinding and Sintering
Authors: Gonzalez-Gutierrez Joamin , Cano Santiago , Ecker Josef Valentin , Kitzmantel Michael , Arbeiter Florian , Kukla Christian , Holzer Clemens
Published: August 2021

Material extrusion additive manufacturing (MEX) is a versatile technology for producing complex specimens of polymers, ceramics and metals. Highly-filled filaments composed of a binder system and a high-volume content of sinterable powders are needed to produce ceramic or metal parts. After shaping the parts via MEX, the binder is removed and the specimens are sintered to obtain a dense part of the sintered filler particles. In this article, the applicability of this additive manufacturing process to produce copper specimens is demonstrated. The particular emphasis is on investigating the production of lightweight specimens that retain mechanical properties without increasing their weight. The effect of infill grades and the cover presence on the debinding process and the flexural properties of the sintered parts was studied. It was observed that covers could provide the same flexural strength with a maximum weight reduction of approximately 23%. However, a cover on specimens with less than 100% infill significantly slows down the debinding process. The results demonstrate the applicability of MEX to produce lightweight copper specimens.
The Color Mix Problem
Authors: Misevičius Alfonsas , Andrejevas Aleksandras , Ostreika Armantas , Blažauskas Tomas , Motiejūnas Liudas
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we introduce a new combinatorial optimization problem entitled the color mix problem (CMP), which is a more general case of the grey pattern quadratic assignment problem (GP-QAP). Also, we propose an original hybrid genetic-iterated tabu search algorithm for heuristically solving the CMP. In addition, we present both analytical solutions and graphical visualizations of the obtained solutions, which clearly demonstrate the excellent performance of the proposed heuristic algorithm.
A Hybrid Microstructure Piezoresistive Sensor with Machine Learning Approach for Gesture Recognition
Authors: Al-Handarish Yousef , Omisore Olatunji Mumini , Chen Jing , Cao Xiuqi , Akinyemi Toluwanimi Oluwadara , Yan Yan , Wang Lei
Published: August 2021

Developments in flexible electronics have adopted various approaches which have enhanced the applicability of human–machine interface fields. Recently, microstructural integration and hybrid functional materials were designed for realizing human somatosensory. Nonetheless, designing tactile sensors with smart structures using facile and low-cost fabrication processes remains challenging. Furthermore, using the sensors for recognizing stimuli and feedback applications remains poorly validated. In this study, a highly flexible piezoresistive tactile sensor was developed by homogeneously dispersing carbon black (CB) in a microstructure porous sugar/PDMS-based sponge. Owning to its high flexibility and softness, the sensor can be mounted on human or robotic systems for different clinical applications. We validated the applicability of the proposed sensor by applying it to recognizing grasp and release forces in an open setting and to classifying hand motions that surgeons apply on the master interface of a robotic system during intravascular catheterization. For this purpose, we implemented the long short-term memory (LSTM)-dense classification model and five traditional machine learning methods, namely, support vector machine, multilayer perceptron, decision tree, and k-nearest neighbor. The models were used to classify the different hand gestures obtained in an open-setting experiment. Amongst all, the LSTM-dense method yielded the highest overall recognition accuracy (87.38%). Nevertheless, the performance of the other models was in a similar range, showing that our sensor structure can be applied in intelligence sensing or tactile feedback systems. Secondly, the sensor prototype was applied to analyze the motions made while manipulating an interventional robot. We analyzed the displacement and velocity of the master interface during typical axial (push/pull) and radial operations with the robot. The results obtained show that the sensor is capable of recording unique patterns during different operations. Thus, a combination of the flexible wearable sensors and machine learning could yield a future generation of flexible materials and artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) devices.
Variations in Wedge Earthquake Distribution along the Strike Underlain by Thermally Controlled Hydrated Megathrusts
Authors: Qu Rui , Ji Yingfeng , Zhu Weiling
Published: August 2021

Accretionary wedge earthquakes usually occur in the overriding crust close to the trench or above the cold nose of the mantle wedge. However, the mechanism and temperature properties related to the slab dip angle remain poorly understood. Based on 3D thermal models to estimate the subduction wedge plate temperature and structure, we investigate the distribution of wedge earthquakes in Alaska, which has a varying slab dip angle along the trench. The horizontal distance of wedge-earthquake hypocenters significantly increases from the Aleutian Islands to south–central Alaska due to a transition from steep subduction to flat subduction. Slab dehydration inside the subducted Pacific plate indicates a simultaneous change in the distances between the intraslab metamorphic fronts and the Alaskan Trench at various depths, which is associated with the flattening of the Pacific plate eastward along the strike. The across-arc width of the wedge-earthquake source zone is consistent with the across-arc width of the surface high topography above the fully dehydrated megathrust, and the fluid upwelling spontaneously influences wedge seismotectonics and orogenesis.
Impact of Updated OECD/NEA Thermodynamic Database on the Safety Assessment of Radioactive Waste Repository Studied Using RESRAD-OFFSITE Code
Authors: Lee Jun-Yeop , Park Sang June , Ahn Seokyoung
Published: August 2021

A RESRAD-OFFISTE computational code for the safety assessment model of a radioactive waste repository was utilized to evaluate the influence of the updated OECD/NEA thermodynamic database on the safety assessment model in terms of exposure dose. The solubility data as the input parameter for the RESRAD-OFFSITE code obtained with two different sets of chemical thermodynamic databases such as JAEA-TDB and amended JAEA-TDB reflecting the updates of the OECD/NEA thermodynamic database were calculated and compared with each other. As a result, almost identical exposure doses were obtained due to the remarkable similarity between the solubility data of various radionuclides for both chemical thermodynamic databases. In contrast, dramatic changes in exposure dose were observed with varying distribution coefficients. Thermodynamic calculations indicated that the aqueous species distribution can be significantly changed by the selection of a chemical thermodynamic database and thus the relevant distribution coefficient can also be influenced as a consequence. Accordingly, the result obtained in the present work indicated that (i) the impact of the updated chemical thermodynamic data was somewhat minor from the viewpoint of the solubility and (ii) the distribution coefficient, which can be sensitively influenced by the predominant chemical species, produced a remarkable change in the exposure dose. This work provided an insight into the precise exposure dose calculation in terms of the reliable estimation of the distribution coefficient by means of a surface complexation model, which can predict the distribution coefficient as a function of groundwater composition coupled with a chemical speciation calculation based on up to date chemical thermodynamic data.
IFC-Based 4D Construction Management Information Model of Prefabricated Buildings and Its Application in Graph Database
Authors: Yang Bin , Dong Miaosi , Wang Congjun , Liu Boda , Wang Zhichen , Zhang Binghan
Published: August 2021

Effective data interoperability and schedule analysis play a significant role in improving the management of prefabricated buildings. However, there is a lack of efficient strategies and comprehensive approaches for data interoperability and data-based automated schedule analysis. This paper intends to promote prefabricated buildings’ management by solving these two problems via developing an IFC-based framework consisting of three parts. Firstly, this framework proposed a mechanism to establish an IFC-based 4D construction management information model of prefabricated buildings. Furthermore, a non-relational database—graph database—is introduced to twin this model into a task-centered network to realize the interoperation of construction information among different participants. Finally, graph database-based strategies to update data, automatically analyze construction schedules and visualize the 4D construction management information model are described. The proposed framework is validated in a prefabricated engineering case. In this case, an IFC-based and graph database-based 4D construction management information model is established through IFC standard’s extension. The graph database-based analysis of the model automatically recognizes the engineering case’s critical path information, delay analysis information, and schedule network analysis information. It is illustrated that this framework can successfully establish a unified IFC-based information model of prefabricated buildings’ construction management to prompt effective data interoperability. In addition, the application of this IFC-based information model in graph database can automatically analyze the construction schedules to prevent possible delays in advance. In short, the significance of this paper is to innovatively propose an IFC-based and graph data-based information model to solve the difficulties of ineffective data interoperation and unautomated schedule analysis in prefabricated buildings’ construction management. This study can be the digital foundation of further IFC-based digital twin.
Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Australian Prime Lambs Grazing Lucerne and Cocksfoot Pastures Are Enhanced by Supplementation with Plant Oil Infused Pellets
Authors: Le Hung V. , Nguyen Quang V. , Nguyen Don V. , Malau-Aduli Bunmi S. , Nichols Peter D. , Malau-Aduli Aduli E. O.
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of pasture (cocksfoot cv. porto (CFP) and lucerne) and supplementation of grazing lambs with pellets with or without plant oil infusion on performance and carcass characteristics. Forty-eight White Suffolk x Corriedale first-cross weaners were randomly assigned to one of four treatments in a split-plot experimental design: (1) CFP or lucerne pastures only (control); CFP or lucerne pastures supplemented with pellets infused with oil from (2) canola (CO); (3) rice bran (RBO) and (4) no oil pellets (NOP). Lucerne and CFP pastures were considered as the main plot effect, and played the role of basal pastures. Lambs grazing lucerne or CFP pastures with pellet supplementation achieved carcass weights of >22 kg at 9 weeks, which met the specific requirements of Asian and United States of America export markets. Pellet supplementation did not affect final liveweight, average daily gain, body length, withers height and chest girth of grazing lambs. Dressing percentage of lambs grazing CFP pasture with pellet supplementation and lambs grazing lucerne pasture with RBO supplementation increased compared with lambs on pasture grazing only. Although supplementing lambs on CFP pasture with CO had relatively negligible impact on feed conversion efficiency, it significantly increased over the hook trade value compared with lambs grazing CFP pasture only. In conclusion, lucerne or CFP pasture plus pellet supplementation produced lamb carcasses >22 kg suitable for the export market. CO had relatively low feed cost per unit daily gain (0.9 $AU/kg on CFP pasture and 0.6 $AU/kg on lucerne pasture) and could also be used as a tactical supplementation tool for increasing the carcass weight of lambs grazing CFP pasture.
3D Modelling of the Scattering of the Fundamental Anti-Symmetric Lamb Mode (A0) Propagating within a Point-Impacted Transverse-Isotropic Composite Plate
Authors: Singh Dilbag , Bentahar Mourad , Mechri Charfeddine , El Guerjouma Rachid
Published: August 2021

The present paper deals with an effort to model impact damage in 3D-FE simulation. In this work, we studied the scattering behavior of an incident A0 guided wave mode propagating towards an impacted damaged zone created within a quasi-isotropic composite plate. Besides, barely visible impact damage of the desired energy was created and imaged using ultrasonic bulk waves in order to measure the size of the damage. The 3D-FE frequency domain model is then used to simulate the scattering of an incident guided wave at a frequency below an A1 cut-off with a wavelength comparable to the size of the damaged zone. The damage inside the plate is modeled as a conical-shaped geometry with decayed elastic stiffness properties. The model was first validated by comparing the directivity of the scattered fields for the A0 Lamb mode predicted numerically with the experimental measurements. The modeling of the impact zone with conical-shape geometry showed that the scattering directivity of the displacement field depends significantly on the size (depth and width) of the conical damage created during the point-impact of the composite with potential applications allowing the determination of the geometric characteristics of the impacted areas.