bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on Fabrication of Reduced Graphene Oxide-Sulfur Composite Cathodes for Li-S Battery via Hydrothermal and Thermal Reduction Methods
Authors: Li Zhiqi , Sun Hao , Pang Yuepeng , Yu Mingming , Zheng Shiyou
Published: February 2021

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery is considered one of the possible alternatives for next-generation high energy batteries. However, its practical applications are still facing great challenges because of poor electronic conductivity, large volume change, and polysulfides dissolution inducing “shuttle reaction” for the S cathode. Many strategies have been explored to alleviate the aforementioned concerns. The most common approach is to embed S into carbonaceous matrix for constructing C-S composite cathodes. Herein, we fabricate the C-S cathode reduced graphene oxide-S (rGO-S) composites via one step hydrothermal and in-situ thermal reduction methods. The structural features and electrochemical properties in Li-S cells of the two type rGO-S composites are studied systematically. The rGO-S composites prepared by one step hydrothermal method (rGO-S-HT) show relatively better comprehensive performance as compared with the ones by in-situ thermal reduction method (rGO-S-T). For instance, with a current density of 100 mA g−1, the rGO-S-HT composite cathodes possess an initial capacity of 1290 mAh g−1 and simultaneously exhibit stable cycling capability. In particular, as increasing the current density to 1.0 A g−1, the rGO-S-HT cathode retains a reversible capacity of 582 mAh g−1 even after 200 cycles. The enhanced electrochemical properties can be attributed to small S particles uniformly distributed on rGO sheets enabling to significantly improve the conductivity of S and effectively buffer large volume change during lithiation/delithiation.
Permeability of a Macro-Cracked Concrete Effect of Confining Pressure and Modelling
Authors: Chen Wei , Han Yixuan , Agostini Franck , Skoczylas Frederic , Corbeel Didier
Published: February 2021

The effects of confining pressure are investigated for two samples of a macro-cracked concrete. Samples are first macro-cracked with a splitting tensile strength test (Brazilian) technique. Gas permeability is continually measured under increasing (or decreasing) confining pressure, whereas crack closure (or opening) is recorded with an LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer) device. Despite a mechanical closure of the macro-crack, identified at around 20 MPa confining pressure, gas permeability continues to decrease as confinement is increased. This means that a model of the macro-crack by two parallel planes (using Poiseuille law) cannot be used to represent permeability variations during closure (or opening) of cracks. As a consequence, a physical model is designed in order to simulate with a better consistency the real behaviour of the macro-crack. This simple modelling allows both behaviours, mechanical and hydraulic, under confining pressure, to be simulated with the same set of parameters.
Nano-Scale Modifications of Amniotic Membrane Induced by UV and Antibiotic Treatment: Histological, AFM and FTIR Spectroscopy Evidence
Authors: Cavalu Simona , Roiu George , Pop Ovidiu , Heredea Denisa A. Petricas , Costea Traian Octavian , Costea Claudia Florida
Published: February 2021

The efficiency of amniotic membrane (AM) transplantation in different types of ocular surface disorders is due to its outstanding properties such as antifibrotic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic, working as a versatile scaffold to promote corneal tissue epithelialization. A proper preparation, preservation and clinical application are crucial for the best outcomes in the treatment of different severe ocular disorders, taking into account its fragility. In this context, by combining high-sensitivity tools such as atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy with histological and immunohistochemical examination, we aimed to investigate the ultrastructural modifications of the amniotic membrane (AM) upon UV exposure and/or antibiotic treatment, with relevance for clinical applications in ocular surface surgery. From the morphological point of view, we noticed a loss of cuboidal cells in the basal membrane, accompanied by the splitting of collagen fibers upon UV and/or gentamicin treatment, while structural alteration of proteins was evidenced by the FTIR quantitative analysis of the secondary structure. A decrease in α-helix and β-sheet content, accompanied by increased content in less ordered structures (turns, random and side chains), was noticed after all the treatments. At the nano-scale, AFM details showed modifications of collagen fibrils in terms of their thickness and network compaction upon gentamicin and/or UV treatment. The enzymatic digestion assay demonstrated that UV exposure significantly reduces the degradation rate of the AM, while gentamicin treatment promotes an accelerated enzymatic digestion upon UV exposure. In order to highlight the clinical impact of the research, a clinical case is presented showing the relevance of amniotic membrane transplantation in pterygium surgery.
Special Issue: “Microstructures and Durability of Cement-Based Materials”
Authors: Jang Jeong Gook , Park Solmoi
Published: February 2021

Cement-based materials play an irreplaceable role in building and sustaining our society by meeting the performance demand imposed on structures and sustainability. Cement-based materials are no longer limited to derivatives of Portland cement, and appreciate a wider range of binders that come from various origins. It is therefore of utmost importance for understanding and expanding the relevant knowledge on their microstructure and likely durability performance. This Special Issue “Microstructures and Durability of Cement-Based Materials” presents recent studies reporting microstructural and durability investigation revealing the characteristics of cement-based materials.
Non-Iridescent Metal Nanomesh with Disordered Nanoapertures Fabricated by Phase Separation Lithography of Polymer Blend as Transparent Conductive Film
Authors: Chen Xinyu , He Yuting , Chen Xiaofeng , Huang Chunyu , Li Yang , Cui Yushuang , Yuan Changsheng , Ge Haixiong
Published: February 2021

Metallic nanomesh, one of the emerging transparent conductive film (TCF) materials with both high electrical conductivity and optical transmittance, shows great potential to replace indium tin oxide (ITO) in optoelectronic devices. However, lithography-fabricated metallic nanomeshes suffer from an iridescence problem caused by the optical diffraction of periodic nanostructures, which has negative effects on display performance. In this work, we propose a novel approach to fabricate large-scale metallic nanomesh as TCFs on flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) sheets by maskless phase separation lithography of polymer blends in a low-cost and facile process. Polystyrene (PS)/polyphenylsilsequioxane (PPSQ) polymer blend was chosen as resist material for phase separation lithography due to their different etching selectivity under O2 reactive ion etching (RIE). The PS constituent was selectively removed by O2 RIE and the remained PPSQ nanopillars with varying sizes in random distribution were used as masks for further pattern transfer and metal deposition process. Gold (Au) nanomeshes with adjustable nanostructures were achieved after the lift-off step. Au nanomesh exhibited good optoelectronic properties (RS = 41 Ω/sq, T = 71.9%) and non-iridescence, without angle dependence owing to the aperiodic structures of disordered apertures. The results indicate that this Au nanomesh has high potential application in high-performance and broad-viewing-angle optoelectronic devices.
A Comparative Analysis of Laser Additive Manufacturing of High Layer Thickness Pure Ti and Inconel 718 Alloy Materials Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Singh Sapam Ningthemba , Chowdhury Sohini , Nirsanametla Yadaiah , Deepati Anil Kumar , Prakash Chander , Singh Sunpreet , Wu Linda Yongling , Zheng Hongyu Y. , Pruncu Catalin
Published: February 2021

Investigation of the selective laser melting (SLM) process, using finite element method, to understand the influences of laser power and scanning speed on the heat flow and melt-pool dimensions is a challenging task. Most of the existing studies are focused on the study of thin layer thickness and comparative study of same materials under different manufacturing conditions. The present work is focused on comparative analysis of thermal cycles and complex melt-pool behavior of a high layer thickness multi-layer laser additive manufacturing (LAM) of pure Titanium (Ti) and Inconel 718. A transient 3D finite-element model is developed to perform a quantitative comparative study on two materials to examine the temperature distribution and disparities in melt-pool behaviours under similar processing conditions. It is observed that the layers are properly melted and sintered for the considered process parameters. The temperature and melt-pool increases as laser power move in the same layer and when new layers are added. The same is observed when the laser power increases, and opposite is observed for increasing scanning speed while keeping other parameters constant. It is also found that Inconel 718 alloy has a higher maximum temperature than Ti material for the same process parameter and hence higher melt-pool dimensions.
Eco-Friendly Fired Brick Produced from Industrial Ash and Natural Clay: A Study of Waste Reuse
Authors: Doğan-Sağlamtimur Neslihan , Bilgil Ahmet , Szechyńska-Hebda Magdalena , Parzych Sławomir , Hebda Marek
Published: February 2021

Bottom ash (BA) is an industrial solid waste formed by the burning of coal. The environmental problems and storage costs caused by this waste increase with every passing day. In this study, the use of BA as an additive (clay substitute) in fired brick production was investigated. The study consisted of two stages. In the first stage, cylinder blocks were produced from clay used in brick production. The second stage was the examination of the experimental substitution of clay with 10, 20, 30 and 40% BA. Samples were fired at 900, 1000, 1100 and 1150 °C to produce fired brick samples. The unit weight, compressive strength (before and after freeze–thawing) and water absorption were analyzed for the samples. The unit weight values decreased in the samples containing BA. The mechanical properties met the conditions prescribed in the relevant standards; i.e., all of the samples fired at 1100 and 1150 °C had a sufficient compressive strength over 20 MPa. The high potential of fired bricks for the construction industry was proved. BA can be used as a clay substitute, while the developed protocol can be used to effectively produce fired bricks.
Dynamics of Rössler Prototype-4 System: Analytical and Numerical Investigation
Authors: Nikolov Svetoslav G. , Vassilev Vassil M.
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the dynamics of a 3D autonomous dissipative nonlinear system of ODEs-Rössler prototype-4 system, was investigated. Using Lyapunov-Andronov theory, we obtain a new analytical formula for the first Lyapunov’s (focal) value at the boundary of stability of the corresponding equilibrium state. On the other hand, the global analysis reveals that the system may exhibit the phenomena of Shilnikov chaos. Further, it is shown via analytical calculations that the considered system can be presented in the form of a linear oscillator with one nonlinear automatic regulator. Finally, it is found that for some new combinations of parameters, the system demonstrates chaotic behavior and transition from chaos to regular behavior is realized through inverse period-doubling bifurcations.
About the Structure of Attractors for a Nonlocal Chafee-Infante Problem
Authors: Caballero Rubén , Carvalho Alexandre N. , Marín-Rubio Pedro , Valero José
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we study the structure of the global attractor for the multivalued semiflow generated by a nonlocal reaction-diffusion equation in which we cannot guarantee the uniqueness of the Cauchy problem. First, we analyse the existence and properties of stationary points, showing that the problem undergoes the same cascade of bifurcations as in the Chafee-Infante equation. Second, we study the stability of the fixed points and establish that the semiflow is a dynamic gradient. We prove that the attractor consists of the stationary points and their heteroclinic connections and analyse some of the possible connections.
Adding Negative Learning to Ant Colony Optimization: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Nurcahyadi Teddy , Blum Christian
Published: February 2021

Ant colony optimization is a metaheuristic that is mainly used for solving hard combinatorial optimization problems. The distinctive feature of ant colony optimization is a learning mechanism that is based on learning from positive examples. This is also the case in other learning-based metaheuristics such as evolutionary algorithms and particle swarm optimization. Examples from nature, however, indicate that negative learning—in addition to positive learning—can beneficially be used for certain purposes. Several research papers have explored this topic over the last decades in the context of ant colony optimization, mostly with limited success. In this work we present and study an alternative mechanism making use of mathematical programming for the incorporation of negative learning in ant colony optimization. Moreover, we compare our proposal to some well-known existing negative learning approaches from the related literature. Our study considers two classical combinatorial optimization problems: the minimum dominating set problem and the multi dimensional knapsack problem. In both cases we are able to show that our approach significantly improves over standard ant colony optimization and over the competing negative learning mechanisms from the literature.
A Divide and Conquer Approach to Eventual Model Checking
Authors: Aung Moe Nandi , Phyo Yati , Do Canh Minh , Ogata Kazuhiro
Published: February 2021

The paper proposes a new technique to mitigate the state of explosion in model checking. The technique is called a divide and conquer approach to eventual model checking. As indicated by the name, the technique is dedicated to eventual properties. The technique divides an original eventual model checking problem into multiple smaller model checking problems and tackles each smaller one. We prove a theorem that the multiple smaller model checking problems are equivalent to the original eventual model checking problem. We conducted a case study that demonstrates the power of the proposed technique.
New Hopes for Drugs against COVID-19 Come from the Sea
Authors: Taglialatela-Scafati Orazio
Published: February 2021

The latest chapter of the historic battle of humans against pathogenic microbes is the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-like coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), responsible for COVID-19, a respiratory disease declared a global pandemic by the WHO on March 11, 2020 [...]
A New Micromonospora Strain with Antibiotic Activity Isolated from the Microbiome of a Mid-Atlantic Deep-Sea Sponge
Authors: Back Catherine R. , Stennett Henry L. , Williams Sam E. , Wang Luoyi , Ojeda Gomez Jorge , Abdulle Omar M. , Duffy Thomas , Neal Christopher , Mantell Judith , Jepson Mark A. , Hendry Katharine R. , Powell David , Stach James E. M. , Essex-Lopresti Angela E. , Willis Christine L. , Curnow Paul , Race Paul R.
Published: February 2021

To tackle the growing problem of antibiotic resistance, it is essential to identify new bioactive compounds that are effective against resistant microbes and safe to use. Natural products and their derivatives are, and will continue to be, an important source of these molecules. Sea sponges harbour a diverse microbiome that co-exists with the sponge, and these bacterial communities produce a rich array of bioactive metabolites for protection and resource competition. For these reasons, the sponge microbiota constitutes a potential source of clinically relevant natural products. To date, efforts in bioprospecting for these compounds have focused predominantly on sponge specimens isolated from shallow water, with much still to be learned about samples from the deep sea. Here we report the isolation of a new Micromonospora strain, designated 28ISP2-46T, recovered from the microbiome of a mid-Atlantic deep-sea sponge. Whole-genome sequencing reveals the capacity of this bacterium to produce a diverse array of natural products, including kosinostatin and isoquinocycline B, which exhibit both antibiotic and antitumour properties. Both compounds were isolated from 28ISP2-46T fermentation broths and were found to be effective against a plethora of multidrug-resistant clinical isolates. This study suggests that the marine production of isoquinocyclines may be more widespread than previously supposed and demonstrates the value of targeting the deep-sea sponge microbiome as a source of novel microbial life with exploitable biosynthetic potential.
Gut Microbiota Profile and Changes in Body Weight in Elderly Subjects with Overweight/Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Atzeni Alessandro , Galié Serena , Muralidharan Jananee , Babio Nancy , Tinahones Francisco José , Vioque Jesús , Corella Dolores , Castañer Olga , Vidal Josep , Moreno-Indias Isabel , Torres-Collado Laura , Fernández-Carrión Rebeca , Fitó Montserrat , Olbeyra Romina , Martínez-González Miguel Angel , Bulló Monica , Salas-Salvadó Jordi
Published: February 2021

Gut microbiota is essential for the development of obesity and related comorbidities. However, studies describing the association between specific bacteria and obesity or weight loss reported discordant results. The present observational study, conducted within the frame of the PREDIMED-Plus clinical trial, aims to assess the association between fecal microbiota, body composition and weight loss, in response to a 12-month lifestyle intervention in a subsample of 372 individuals (age 55–75) with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome. Participants were stratified by tertiles of baseline body mass index (BMI) and changes in body weight after 12-month intervention. General assessments, anthropometry and biochemical measurements, and stool samples were collected. 16S amplicon sequencing was performed on bacterial DNA extracted from stool samples and microbiota analyzed. Differential abundance analysis showed an enrichment of Prevotella 9, Lachnospiraceae UCG-001 and Bacteroides, associated with a higher weight loss after 12-month of follow-up, whereas in the cross-sectional analysis, Prevotella 2 and Bacteroides were enriched in the lowest tertile of baseline BMI. Our findings suggest that fecal microbiota plays an important role in the control of body weight, supporting specific genera as potential target in personalized nutrition for obesity management. A more in-depth taxonomic identification method and the need of metabolic information encourages to further investigation.
Global Transcriptional Response of Methylorubrum extorquens to Formaldehyde Stress Expands the Role of EfgA and Is Distinct from Antibiotic Translational Inhibition
Authors: Bazurto Jannell V. , Riazi Siavash , D’Alton Simon , Deatherage Daniel E. , Bruger Eric L. , Barrick Jeffrey E. , Marx Christopher J.
Published: February 2021

The potency and indiscriminate nature of formaldehyde reactivity upon biological molecules make it a universal stressor. However, some organisms such as Methylorubrum extorquens possess means to rapidly and effectively mitigate formaldehyde-induced damage. EfgA is a recently identified formaldehyde sensor predicted to halt translation in response to elevated formaldehyde as a means to protect cells. Herein, we investigate growth and changes in gene expression to understand how M. extorquens responds to formaldehyde with and without the EfgA-formaldehyde-mediated translational response, and how this mechanism compares to antibiotic-mediated translation inhibition. These distinct mechanisms of translation inhibition have notable differences: they each involve different specific players and in addition, formaldehyde also acts as a general, multi-target stressor and a potential carbon source. We present findings demonstrating that in addition to its characterized impact on translation, functional EfgA allows for a rapid and robust transcriptional response to formaldehyde and that removal of EfgA leads to heightened proteotoxic and genotoxic stress in the presence of increased formaldehyde levels. We also found that many downstream consequences of translation inhibition were shared by EfgA-formaldehyde- and kanamycin-mediated translation inhibition. Our work uncovered additional layers of regulatory control enacted by functional EfgA upon experiencing formaldehyde stress, and further demonstrated the importance this protein plays at both transcriptional and translational levels in this model methylotroph.
Soil Bacterial Diversity Is Positively Correlated with Decomposition Rates during Early Phases of Maize Litter Decomposition
Authors: Chiba Akane , Uchida Yoshitaka , Kublik Susanne , Vestergaard Gisle , Buegger Franz , Schloter Michael , Schulz Stefanie
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different levels of soil- and plant-associated bacterial diversity on the rates of litter decomposition, and bacterial community dynamics during its early phases. We performed an incubation experiment where soil bacterial diversity (but not abundance) was manipulated by autoclaving and reinoculation. Natural or autoclaved maize leaves were applied to the soils and incubated for 6 weeks. Bacterial diversity was assessed before and during litter decomposition using 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding. We found a positive correlation between litter decomposition rates and soil bacterial diversity. The soil with the highest bacterial diversity was dominated by oligotrophic bacteria including Acidobacteria, Nitrospiraceae, and Gaiellaceae, and its community composition did not change during the incubation. In the less diverse soils, those taxa were absent but were replaced by copiotrophic bacteria, such as Caulobacteraceae and Beijerinckiaceae, until the end of the incubation period. SourceTracker analysis revealed that litter-associated bacteria, such as Beijerinckiaceae, only became part of the bacterial communities in the less diverse soils. This suggests a pivotal role of oligotrophic bacteria during the early phases of litter decomposition and the predominance of copiotrophic bacteria at low diversity.
An Oral FMT Capsule as Efficient as an Enema for Microbiota Reconstruction Following Disruption by Antibiotics, as Assessed in an In Vitro Human Gut Model
Authors: Verdier Cécile , Denis Sylvain , Gasc Cyrielle , Boucinha Lilia , Uriot Ophélie , Delmas Dominique , Dore Joël , Le Camus Corentin , Schwintner Carole , Blanquet-Diot Stéphanie
Published: February 2021

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an innovative therapy already used in humans to treat Clostridioides difficile infections associated with massive use of antibiotics. Clinical studies are obviously the gold standard to evaluate FMT efficiency but remain limited by regulatory, ethics, and cost constraints. In the present study, an in vitro model of the human colon reproducing medically relevant perturbation of the colonic ecosystem by antibiotherapy was used to compare the efficiency of traditional FMT enema formulations and a new oral capsule in restoring gut microbiota composition and activity. Loss of microbial diversity, shift in bacterial populations, and sharp decrease in fermentation activities induced in vivo by antibiotherapy were efficiently reproduced in the in vitro model, while capturing inter-individual variability of gut microbiome. Oral capsule was as efficient as enema to decrease the number of disturbed days and bacterial load had no effect on enema performance. This study shows the relevance of human colon models as an alternative approach to in vivo assays during preclinical studies for evaluating FMT efficiency. The potential of this in vitro approach could be extended to FMT testing in the management of many digestive or extra-intestinal pathologies where gut microbial dysbiosis has been evidenced such as inflammatory bowel diseases, obesity or cancers.
Changes in the Microbial Composition of the Cecum and Histomorphometric Analysis of Its Epithelium in Broilers Fed with Feed Mixture Containing Fermented Rapeseed Meal
Authors: Szmigiel Ida , Konkol Damian , Korczyński Mariusz , Łukaszewicz Marcin , Krasowska Anna
Published: February 2021

This study examined the influence of fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) on the intestinal morphology and gut microflora of broiler chickens. Limited information is available on the effects of FRSM on the intestinal morphology and the gastrointestinal microbiome population of animals. First, 48 21-day Ross 308 broilers were placed in metabolic cages and randomly assigned to four experimental groups. Group I birds were negative controls and received no additive. Group II birds were positive controls and received a 3% addition of unfermented rapeseed meal. Group III birds received a 3% addition of rapeseed meal fermented with the Bacillus subtilis 67 bacterial strain. Group IV birds received a 3% addition of rapeseed meal fermented with the B. subtilis 87Y strain. After 23 days of experimental feeding, the contents of the birds’ ceca were collected for microorganism determination. The histomorphology of the broilers’ ceca was also determined, and beneficial changes were found in the histology of the broilers’ ceca with the additives. Moreover, these materials inhibited the growth of pathogens and significantly stimulated the growth of probiotic bacteria. These results suggest that the addition of 3% FRSM has a potential probiotic effect and can be used as a material in feed for broilers.
Study of Thermooxidation of Oil Shale Samples and Basics of Processes for Utilization of Oil Shale Ashes
Authors: Kaljuvee Tiit , Uibu Mai , Yörük Can Rüstü , Einard Marve , Trikkel Andres , Kuusik Rein , Trass Olev , Štubňa Igor , Húlan Tomáš , Loide Valli , Jefimova Jekaterina
Published: February 2021

A circular economy becomes an object of actual discussions as a real alternative to the existing linear economy system. The problem is actually in Estonia also, first of all in the sector of heat and power production which based mainly on the combustion of local solid fossil fuel—Estonian oil shale (OS) resulting in the formation of ~5–6 million tons of OS ashes annually. The thermooxidative decomposition of OS samples from different deposits and estimation of the possibilities of utilization of OS ashes formed at both—pulverized firing (PF) and circulating fluidized bed combustion (CFBC) of Estonian OS were studied. The thermal analysis combined with evolved gas analysis (EGA) methods like Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and mass-spectroscopy (MS) was exploited. It was established that the differences in the thermal behaviour of different OS samples are caused by the differences in the chemical matrix of organic matter, chemical and mineralogical composition of the inorganic part of OS, and morphology of samples. It was also found that moderate grinding of OS ashes with simultaneous moderate water treatment notably improved the SO2 binding efficiency of cyclone ash, and that the strength and leachability characteristics of granulated OS ashes strongly depend on the post-granulation treatment conditions allowing to increase the soil neutralizing ability of the granulated products. This overview was based on our investigations carried out during the last fifteen years.
Brain–Gut–Microbiome Interactions and Intermittent Fasting in Obesity
Authors: Frank Juliette , Gupta Arpana , Osadchiy Vadim , Mayer Emeran A.
Published: February 2021

The obesity epidemic and its metabolic consequences are a major public health problem both in the USA and globally. While the underlying causes are multifactorial, dysregulations within the brain–gut–microbiome (BGM) system play a central role. Normal eating behavior is coordinated by the tightly regulated balance between intestinal, extraintestinal and central homeostatic and hedonic mechanisms, resulting in stable body weight. The ubiquitous availability and marketing of inexpensive, highly palatable and calorie-dense food has played a crucial role in shifting this balance towards hedonic eating through both central (disruptions in dopaminergic signaling) and intestinal (vagal afferent function, metabolic toxemia, systemic immune activation, changes to gut microbiome and metabolome) mechanisms. The balance between homeostatic and hedonic eating behaviors is not only influenced by the amount and composition of the diet, but also by the timing and rhythmicity of food ingestion. Circadian rhythmicity affects both eating behavior and multiple gut functions, as well as the composition and interactions of the microbiome with the gut. Profound preclinical effects of intermittent fasting and time restricted eating on the gut microbiome and on host metabolism, mostly demonstrated in animal models and in a limited number of controlled human trials, have been reported. In this Review, we will discuss the effects of time-restricted eating on the BGM and review the promising effects of this eating pattern in obesity treatment.
Impact of Micronutrients on Hypertension: Evidence from Clinical Trials with a Special Focus on Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chiu Hui-Fang , Venkatakrishnan Kamesh , Golovinskaia Oksana , Wang Chin-Kun
Published: February 2021

Hypertension (HT) is one of the pivotal risk factors for various detrimental diseases like cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cerebrovascular disease, and renal dysfunction. Currently, many researchers are paying immense attention to various diet formula (dietary approach) with a special focus on micro and macronutrients along with modified lifestyle and standard anti-hypertensive drugs. Micronutrients (minerals/vitamins) play a central role in the regulation of blood pressure (BP) as they aid the function of macronutrients and also improve the anti-hypertensive functions of some anti-hypertensive agents. Even though several studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of micronutrients on controlling BP, still some ambiguity exists among the nutritionists/doctors, which combination or individual mineral (dietary approach) contributes to better BP regulation. Therefore, this critical review article was attempted to delineate the underlying role of micronutrients (minerals and vitamins) for the management and prevention or delaying of HT and their related complications with strong affirmation from clinical trials as well as its mechanism of controlling BP. Moreover, the major source and recommended daily allowance (RDA) of various micronutrients are included in this review for guiding common readers (especially HT subjects) and dieticians to choose/recommend a better micronutrient and their combinations (other nutrients and standard anti-hypertensive drugs) for lowering the risk of HT and its related co-morbid conditions like CVDs.
Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Dampens Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver by Modulating Liver Function, Lipid Profile and Macrophage Polarization
Authors: Du Yong , Paglicawan Laura , Soomro Sanam , Abunofal Omar , Baig Sahar , Vanarsa Kamala , Hicks John , Mohan Chandra
Published: February 2021

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) has been shown to attenuate obesity, fatty liver disease, hepatic inflammation and lipid profiles. Here, we validate the efficacy of EGCG in a murine model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and extend the mechanistic insights. NAFLD was induced in mice by a high-fat diet (HFD) with 30% fructose. EGCG was administered at a low dose (25 mg/kg/day, EGCG-25) or high dose (50 mg/kg/day, EGCG-50) for 8 weeks. In HFD-fed mice, EGCG attenuated body and liver weight by ~22% and 47%, respectively, accompanied by ~47% reduction in hepatic triglyceride (TG) accumulation and ~38% reduction in serum cholesterol, resonating well with previous reports in the literature. In EGCG-treated mice, the hepatic steatosis score and the non-alcoholic steatohepatitis activity score were both reduced by ~50% and ~57%, respectively, accompanied by improvements in hepatic inflammation grade. Liver enzymes were improved ~2–3-fold following EGCG treatment, recapitulating previous reports. Hepatic flow cytometry demonstrated that EGCG-fed mice had lower Ly6C+, MHCII+ and higher CD206+, CD23+ hepatic macrophage infiltration, indicating that EGCG impactedM1/M2 macrophage polarization. Our study further validates the salubrious effects of EGCG on NAFLD and sheds light on a novel mechanistic contribution of EGCG, namely hepatic M1-to-M2 macrophage polarization. These findings offer further support for the use of EGCG in human NAFLD.
Applications of Shell-Isolated Nanoparticle-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Barbillon Grégory
Published: February 2021

The surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is mainly used as an analysis or detection tool of biological and chemical molecules. Since the last decade, an alternative branch of the SERS effect has been explored, and named shell-isolated nanoparticle Raman spectroscopy (SHINERS) which was discovered in 2010. In SHINERS, plasmonic cores are used for enhancing the Raman signal of molecules, and a very thin shell of silica is generally employed for improving the thermal and chemical stability of plasmonic cores that is of great interest in the specific case of catalytic reactions under difficult conditions. Moreover, thanks to its great surface sensitivity, SHINERS can enable the investigation at liquid–solid interfaces. In last two years (2019–2020), recent insights in this alternative SERS field were reported. Thus, this mini-review is centered on the applications of shell-isolated nanoparticle Raman spectroscopy to the reactions with CO molecules, other surface catalytic reactions, and the detection of molecules and ions.
Elicitors Modulate Young Sandalwood (Santalum album L.) Growth, Heartwood Formation, and Concrete Oil Synthesis
Authors: Li Yuan , Zhang Xinhua , Cheng Qingwei , Teixeira da Silva Jaime A. , Fang Lin , Ma Guohua
Published: February 2021

Five chemical elicitors––6-benzyladenine (BA), ethephon (ETH), methyl jasmonate (MeJA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and calcium chloride (CaCl2)––were used to treat 1- and 5-year-old sandal trees (Santalum album L.) to assess their effects on growth, heartwood formation and concrete oil synthesis. The results showed that some newly formed branches in stems that were induced by BA and ETH displayed leaf senescence and developed new smaller and light-green leaves. The relative percentage of concrete oil from the heartwood of water-treated trees (0.65%) was significantly lower than that from trees treated with 4 mM H2O2 (2.85%) and 4 mM BA (2.75%) within one year. Four mM BA, H2O2 and CaCl2 induced a significantly higher level of sesquiterpenoids than heartwood treated with 2 mM of these elicitors. Four mM MeJA induced significantly less sesquiterpenoids than heartwood treated with 2 mM MeJA. Morphological, physiological, and chromatographic–spectrometric technologies were integrated to trace the potential function of these exogenously applied chemical elicitors. The results may have important applications and provide a better understanding of the molecular mechanism of heartwood formation and hardening in young sandalwood trees.
Rapid Quantification of Microalgae Growth with Hyperspectral Camera and Vegetation Indices
Authors: Salmi Pauliina , Eskelinen Matti A. , Leppänen Matti T. , Pölönen Ilkka
Published: February 2021

Spectral cameras are traditionally used in remote sensing of microalgae, but increasingly also in laboratory-scale applications, to study and monitor algae biomass in cultures. Practical and cost-efficient protocols for collecting and analyzing hyperspectral data are currently needed. The purpose of this study was to test a commercial, easy-to-use hyperspectral camera to monitor the growth of different algae strains in liquid samples. Indices calculated from wavebands from transmission imaging were compared against algae abundance and wet biomass obtained from an electronic cell counter, chlorophyll a concentration, and chlorophyll fluorescence. A ratio of selected wavebands containing near-infrared and red turned out to be a powerful index because it was simple to calculate and interpret, yet it yielded strong correlations to abundances strain-specifically (0.85 < r < 0.96, p < 0.001). When all the indices formulated as A/B, A/(A + B) or (A − B)/(A + B), where A and B were wavebands of the spectral camera, were scrutinized, good correlations were found amongst them for biomass of each strain (0.66 < r < 0.98, p < 0.001). Comparison of near-infrared/red index to chlorophyll a concentration demonstrated that small-celled strains had higher chlorophyll absorbance compared to strains with larger cells. The comparison of spectral imaging to chlorophyll fluorescence was done for one strain of green algae and yielded strong correlations (near-infrared/red, r = 0.97, p < 0.001). Consequently, we described a simple imaging setup and information extraction based on vegetation indices that could be used to monitor algae cultures.
LED Illumination Spectrum Manipulation for Increasing the Yield of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)
Authors: Rahman Md Momtazur , Vasiliev Mikhail , Alameh Kamal
Published: February 2021

Manipulation of the LED illumination spectrum can enhance plant growth rate and development in grow tents. We report on the identification of the illumination spectrum required to significantly enhance the growth rate of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) plants in grow tent environments by controlling the LED wavebands illuminating the plants. Since the optimal illumination spectrum depends on the plant type, this work focuses on identifying the illumination spectrum that achieves significant basil biomass improvement compared to improvements reported in prior studies. To be able to optimize the illumination spectrum, several steps must be achieved, namely, understanding plant biology, conducting several trial-and-error experiments, iteratively refining experimental conditions, and undertaking accurate statistical analyses. In this study, basil plants are grown in three grow tents with three LED illumination treatments, namely, only white LED illumination (denoted W*), the combination of red (R) and blue (B) LED illumination (denoted BR*) (relative red (R) and blue (B) intensities are 84% and 16%, respectively) and a combination of red (R), blue (B) and far-red (F) LED illumination (denoted BRF*) (relative red (R), blue (B) and far-red (F) intensities are 79%, 11%, and 10%, respectively). The photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) was set at 155 µmol m−2 s−1 for all illumination treatments, and the photoperiod was 20 h per day. Experimental results show that a combination of blue (B), red (R), and far-red (F) LED illumination leads to a one-fold increase in the yield of a sweet basil plant in comparison with only white LED illumination (W*). On the other hand, the use of blue (B) and red (R) LED illumination results in a half-fold increase in plant yield. Understanding the effects of LED illumination spectrum on the growth of plant sweet basil plants through basic horticulture research enables farmers to significantly improve their production yield, thus food security and profitability.
Exploring Morpho-Physiological Variation for Heat Stress Tolerance in Tomato
Authors: Bhattarai Samikshya , Harvey Joshua , Djidonou Desire , Leskovar Daniel
Published: February 2021

Texas tomato production is vulnerable to extreme heat in the spring-summer cropping period, which is exacerbated by the lack of superior genetic materials that can perform well in such environments. There is a dire need for selecting superior varieties that can adapt to warm environments and exhibit high yield stability under heat stress conditions. This research aimed at identifying heat-tolerant varieties under heat-stress conditions in controlled and open-field environments and was carried out in three stages. For the first experiment, 43 varieties were screened based on yield responses in natural open-field environment. From those, 18 varieties were chosen and exposed to control (greenhouse: 26/20 °C) and constant heat-stress (growth-chamber: 34/24 °C) conditions for three months. Measurements were done for chlorophyll fluorescence, chlorophyll content (SPAD), plant height, stem diameter and heat injury index (HII). The last experiment was conducted in an open field with a pool of varieties selected from the first and second experiments. Leaf gas exchange, leaf temperature, chlorophyll fluorescence, SPAD value, electrolyte leakage, heat injury index and yield were assessed. From the combined studies, we concluded that heat-tolerant genotypes selected by using chlorophyll fluorescence and HII in controlled heat-stress conditions also exhibited heat-tolerance in open-field environments. Electrolyte leakage and HII best distinguished tomato varieties in open-field environments as plants with low electrolyte leakage and HII had higher total yield. 'Heat Master,' 'New Girl,' 'HM-1823,' 'Rally,' 'Valley Girl,' 'Celebrity,' and 'Tribeca' were identified as high heat-tolerant varieties. Through trait correlation analysis we provide a better understanding of which traits could be useful for screening and breeding other heat-tolerant tomato varieties.
Response of Olive Shoots to Salinity Stress Suggests the Involvement of Sulfur Metabolism
Authors: Bashir Muhammad Ajmal , Silvestri Cristian , Coppa Eleonora , Brunori Elena , Cristofori Valerio , Rugini Eddo , Ahmad Touqeer , Hafiz Ishfaq Ahmad , Abbasi Nadeem Akhtar , Nawaz Shah Muhammad Kausar , Astolfi Stefania
Published: February 2021

Global warming has two dangerous global consequences for agriculture: drought, due to water scarcity, and salinization, due to the prolonged use of water containing high concentrations of salts. Since the global climate is projected to continue to change over this century and beyond, choosing salt-tolerant plants could represent a potential paramount last resort for exploiting the secondary saline soils. Olive is considered moderately resistant to soil salinity as compared to other fruit trees, and in the present study, we investigated the influence of NaCl solutions (ranging from 0 to 200 mM) in a salt-tolerant (cv Canino) and two of its transgenic lines (Canino AT17-1 and Canino AT17-2), overexpressing tobacco osmotin gene, and in a salt-sensitive (Sirole) olive cultivar. After four weeks, most of the shoots of both Canino and Sirole plants showed stunted growth and ultimate leaf drop by exposure to salt-enriched media, contrary to transgenic lines, that did not show injuries and exhibited a normal growth rate. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content was also measured as an indicator of the lipid peroxidation level. To evaluate the role of the S assimilatory pathway in alleviating the adverse effects of salt stress, thiols levels as well as extractable activities of ATP sulfurylase (ATPS) and O-acetyl serine(thiol)lyase (OASTL), the first and the last enzyme of the S assimilation pathway, respectively, have been estimated. The results have clearly depicted that both transgenic lines overexpressing osmotin gene coped with increasing levels of NaCl by the induction of S metabolism, and particularly increase in OASTL activity closely paralleled changes of NaCl concentration. Linear correlation between salt stress and OASTL activity provides evidence that the S assimilation pathway plays a key role in adaptive response of olive plants under salt stress conditions.
High Temperature Adsorption of SO2 on Mixed Oxides Derived from CaAl Hydrotalcite-Like Compounds
Authors: Wang Hailin , Hao Run , Gao Meiping , Zhang Zhongshen , Hao Zhengping
Published: February 2021

SO2 which is usually emitted at high temperature is one of the most important air pollutants. It is of great significance to develop high temperature SO2 adsorbent with high efficiency and low cost. In this work, a series of hydrotalcite-like compound-derived CaAlO and CaXAlO(X = Ce, Co) were prepared by coprecipitation and calcination method, and were employed as adsorbents for SO2 adsorption at high temperature (700 °C). The structure and surface properties of these adsorbents were characterized by XRD, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), Derivative thermogravimetric analysis (DTG) and CO2-TPD (temperature programmed desorption) measurement. Addition of a minor amount of Ce, Co (5 wt%) could significantly increase the number of weak alkalinity sites. CaO in CaCeAlO showed the best SO2 adsorption capacity of 1.34 g/g, which is two times higher than that of CaO in CaAlO (0.58 g/g).
Environmental Method for Synthesizing Amorphous Silica Oxide Nanoparticles from a Natural Material
Authors: Zarei Vahid , Mirzaasadi Mojtaba , Davarpanah Afshin , Nasiri Alireza , Valizadeh Majid , Hosseini Mohammad Javad Sarbaz
Published: February 2021

Numerous studies have been performed on the generation of several silicon-based engineering materials that often have used chemical materials that have high risks for health and the safety of the environment. Generally, in the synthesis of Nano-silica, tetramethoxysilane, tetraethoxysilane, and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) are used as precursor materials; however, these materials are toxic and expensive for the production of Nano-silica. This paper presents an environmentally friendly short method (EFSM) with high efficiency for the synthesis of amorphous silica oxide Nanoparticles by using agricultural waste called rice husks (RHs). Use of the EFSM method as an alternative to the chemical methods would have the advantages of fast and simple operation, controllability, great pureness of the Nanoparticles, and low manufacturing cost. A Nanoparticles (NPs) evaluation was conducted with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). By applying the EFSM method, non-toxic amorphous silica nanoparticles with a purity of 94.5% and particle size less than 100 nm was synthesized without using any chemical material.
Impact of Cycle Time and Payload of an Industrial Robot on Resource Efficiency
Authors: Stuhlenmiller Florian , Weyand Steffi , Jungblut Jens , Schebek Liselotte , Clever Debora , Rinderknecht Stephan
Published: February 2021

Modern industry benefits from the automation capabilities and flexibility of robots. Consequently, the performance depends on the individual task, robot and trajectory, while application periods of several years lead to a significant impact of the use phase on the resource efficiency. In this work, simulation models predicting a robot’s energy consumption are extended by an estimation of the reliability, enabling the consideration of maintenance to enhance the assessment of the application’s life cycle costs. Furthermore, a life cycle assessment yields the greenhouse gas emissions for the individual application. Potential benefits of the combination of motion simulation and cost analysis are highlighted by the application to an exemplary system. For the selected application, the consumed energy has a distinct impact on greenhouse gas emissions, while acquisition costs govern life cycle costs. Low cycle times result in reduced costs per workpiece, however, for short cycle times and higher payloads, the probability of required spare parts distinctly increases for two critical robotic joints. Hence, the analysis of energy consumption and reliability, in combination with maintenance, life cycle costing and life cycle assessment, can provide additional information to improve the resource efficiency.