bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PGM5: a novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for liver cancer
Authors: Jiao Yan , Li Yanqing , Jiang Peiqiang , Han Wei , Liu Yahui
Published: June 2019

Background

Liver cancer is a common malignancy and a significant public health problem worldwide, but diagnosis and prognostic evaluation remain challenging for clinicians. Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer, and we therefore examined the diagnostic and prognostic value of a metabolic enzyme, phosphoglucomutase-like protein 5 (PGM5), in liver cancer.

Methods

All data were from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. R and related statistical packages were used for data analysis. HepaticPGM5expression was determined in different groups, and the chi-squared test and Fisher’s exact test were used to determine the significance of differences. The pROC package was used to determine receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, the survival package was used to for survival analysis and development of a Cox multivariable model, and the ggplot2 package was used for data visualization.

Results

PGM5expression was significantly lower in cancerous than adjacent normal liver tissues, and had modest diagnostic value based on ROC analysis and calculations of area under the curve (AUC). HepaticPGM5expression had positive associations with male sex and survival, but negative associations with advanced histologic type, advanced histologic grade, advanced stage, and advanced T classification. Patents with lowPGM5levels had poorer overall survival and relapse-free survival.PGM5was independently associated with patient prognosis.

Conclusion

PGM5has potential use as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for liver cancer.
Hydroclimatic variations reveal differences in carbon capture in two sympatric conifers in northern Mexico
Authors: González-Cásares Marcos , Pompa-García Marín , Venegas-González Alejandro , Domínguez-Calleros Pedro , Hernández-Díaz José , Carrillo-Parra Artemio , González-Tagle Marco
Published: June 2019

Background

Forest ecosystems are considered among the largest terrestrial carbon sinks. The dynamics of forest carbon depend on where the carbon is stored and its responses to environmental factors, as well as the physiology of the trees. Thus, threatened forest regions with high biodiversity have great scientific importance, such as the Sierra Madre Occidental in Mexico. A comparative analysis of tree species can expand the knowledge of the carbon cycle dynamics and ecological processes in this region. Here, we examined the growth, wood density, and carbon accumulation of two threatened species (Pseudotsuga menziesii and Cupressus lusitanica) to evaluate their hydroclimatic responsiveness.

Methods

The temporal variations in the carbon accumulation patterns of two co-occurring species (P. menziesii and C. lusitanica) and their sensitivity to the local climate were studied using dendroecological techniques, X-ray densitometry, and allometric equations.

Results

The results show that the annual carbon accumulation in C. lusitanica is positively associated with the temperature during the current fall, while the carbon accumulation in P. menziesii is correlated with the rainfall during the winter of the previous year. The climatic responses are associated with the intra-annual variations of wood density and ring widths for each species. The ring width was strongly correlated with carbon accumulation in C. lusitanica, while the mean wood density was linked to carbon accumulation in P. menziesii.

Discussion

This study has implications for the carbon accumulation rates of both species, revealing differences in the carbon capture patterns in response to climatic variations. Although the species coexist, there are variation in the hydroclimatic sensitivity of the annual carbon sequestered by trunks of trees, which would be associated with tree-ring width and/or wood density, i.e., directly by anatomical features. The results are relevant to analyze the response to the variability of climatic conditions expected in the near future of the tree communities of Sierra Madre Occidental. Therefore, this study provides a basis for modeling the long-term carbon budget projections in terrestrial ecosystems in northern Mexico.
Assessment of Level of Susceptibility of Anopheles gambiae S.L to Public Health Insecticides in a Malaria Vector Sentinel Site, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Ebere N. , Atting I. , Ekerette I. , Nioking A.
Published: June 2019

Aims: To investigate the status of susceptibility of Anopheles gambiae sensu lato (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes to the WHO-approved insecticides for indoor residual spraying  in field collected samples in a malaria vector sentinel site in Nigeria and Ts to provide an update on the current status of resistance to the major insecticide classes in wild populations of Anopheles gambiae sensu lato

Study Design: Field and laboratory –experimental design was used in this study.

Place and Duration of the Study: The study was carried out at a malaria surveillance site, established by the National Malaria Elimination Programme at Oduoha-Emohua in Rivers State, between April to September, 2015.

 Methodology: Anopheles larvae were collected from stagnant pools around the malaria surveillance site. The mosquitoes were reared to adulthood in the insectary and identified using morphological keys. Two- to three-day old adult female mosquitoes were exposed to standard diagnostic doses of Deltamethrin, Lambdacyhalothrin, Alphacympermethrin, Permethrin, Bendiocarb, Propoxur, DDT and   Premiphos-Methyl using standard WHO protocols, insecticide susceptibility test kits and treated papers. Knockdown every 10 min and mortality 24 h post exposure was noted. All Anopheles mosquitoes tested belonged to the Anopheles gambiae-complex.

Results: Mortality results indicated that the vectors were susceptible to Bendiocarb and Alphacympermethrin with mortality rates of 100% and 98% respectively. There was complete resistance to Deltamethrin, Lambdacyhalothrin, Permethrin, Propoxur, DDT and Premiphos-Methyl with mortality ranges of 25%-65%.

Conclusion: The present study shows the effectiveness of Bendiocarb and Alphacympermethrin in malaria control with indoor residual spraying. It also provides baseline information for monitoring the status of insecticide resistance in Rivers State.
Modeling Distributed Agile Software Development Utilizing Cloud Computing: A Holistic Framework
Authors: Sever Ali
Published: June 2019

In distributed agile software development, to conquer the problems raised by rapid development of complex products with ever changing technological advances and risks, there is a need of a model with specific tools and technology supported approaches to manage them. Distributed environment has challenges and complexities in many ways of over collocated teams. However, they seem to enhance the basic principles in which agile methodology thrives on. Agile projects and distributed projects are compatible and therefore practices, principles, tools, and techniques for distributed agile software development are introduced to the distributed teams to ensure that the agile projects become successful. Although cloud computing is well established for software system developments, its effect on agile methodology has not been extensively studied. This study outlines how agile projects can be modeled in the cloud-computing era, namely, seamless agile-cloud integration. We propose a model to improve Agile Methodology in distributed computing platform. This model has uncovered a gap between the distributed agile development phases that are overemphasized and the phases that require actual attention. In addition to this, emphasis on appropriate phases would help build desired software that can exploit the benefits of cloud computing in numerous ways.
Effect of Nitrogen Rates on the Forage Yield of Maize Genotypes under Superadhesion
Authors: Lins Fernando JA , Ferreira Paulo V , Silva Moisés T da , Lira Rosa C , Assunção Mayara C , Teixeira Jadson S , Belém Talles JL , Azevedo José ML de , Silva Jackson Da , Costa JG Da , Ferreira José PMV
Published: June 2019

Maize production is directly linked to the genetic potential of the variety and management practices, among them, sowing density and soil fertility. The objective of this work was to analyze the effect of the application of nitrogen doses and its efficiency and use in maize genotypes grown under over - densification conditions, in the city of Rio Largo, Alagoas. The experiment was carried out from November 2015 to March 2016, and a randomized complete block design was used in the 3 x 4 factorial scheme (three maize genotypes: Branca, Viçosense and Nordestino, and four nitrogen doses: 80, 160, 240 and 320 kg ha-¹) with three replications, at seeding density of 167 thousand plants per hectare. The dry matter production of the forage and its qualitative characteristics were evaluated: dry matter, mineral matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber and hemicellulose. Under the conditions of over-counting, it is concluded: (a) the corn genotypes Viçosense, Branca and Nordestino, for the productive and qualitative characteristics of the forage, presented similar and satisfactory behavior, except for the variable HC, where the genotype Branca stood out in relation to the others, presenting the highest levels of hemicelluloses, which gives it the highest concentrations of energy and digestibility of its forage; (b) the dose 80 kg ha-¹ of nitrogen was the most satisfactory for the productive and qualitative characteristics of maize fodder, since its effect was similar to increasing nitrogen dosages, in addition to providing a higher percentage of NDF.
Seasonal Effect on Milk Composition, Somatic Cell Content and Milk Coagulation Properties of Italian Holstein-Friesian Cows
Authors: Simone Beux, , Martino Cassandro , Aparecido de Lima Vanderlei , Nogueira Alessandro Zielinski Acácio Antonio Ferreira, , Nina Waszczynskyj
Published: June 2019

This study investigated the seasonal effect on composition, somatic cell content and coagulation properties of bovine milk during two different periods of the year (summer and autumn). 592 samples of raw milk from Italian Holstein-Friesian cows from different locations in the Veneto region, Italy, were collected. The samples were submitted to the following analyses: fat, protein, casein and lactose percentages and pH by infrared spectroscopy; somatic cell counting by optical fluorescence and milk coagulation properties expressed in rennet coagulation time (RCT, min) and curd firmness or consistency 30 minutes after the addition of rennet (a30, mm) by lactodinamography. The index of the aptitude of milk to coagulate (IAC) was also determined from the lactodinamographic parameters that were obtained. To verify the environmental conditions, the temperature humidity index (THI) was calculated for each collection period. No significant difference (p <0.05) was observed between protein, casein, lactose and pH in the samples collected in the summer and the autumn. However, the results for somatic cells, RCT, a30 and IAC were significantly different, with lower results in the summer. Over all the total samples analysed, 41.2% showed a milk that did not coagulate in the 30 minutes, with a higher percentage for samples collected in the summer and during this period presented lower results to of RCT, a30 and IAC; the THI values, as expected, were higher in the summer than in the autumn. The THI presented statistically different means (p <0.05), which were 73.24 in the summer and 57.43 in the autumn. Milk with this characteristic is not suitable for cheese production; however, it is suitable to produce fluid milk, or for other derivatives where enzymatic coagulation is not part of the process.
Estimation of genetic parameters and prediction of genotypic values in common beans using mixed models#
Authors: C. de F. Ruas, Paulo M. Ruas, Jessica Delfini, Vania Moda Cirino, , Leandro Simões Azeredo Gonçalves José dos Santos Neto,
Published: June 2019

In the international scenario of agriculture, Brazil stands out as the main producer and consumer of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) The increase in the productive potential of the crop is mainly due to breeding programs. The objective of this study was to estimate genetic parameters, predict genotypic values ​​with REML/BLUP (Restricted Maximum Likelihood/Best Linear Unbiased Prediction) and, based on these values,​​ study the variability in common bean cultivars with carioca and black grain. Twenty three agromorphological descriptors were evaluated, among them grain yield. Deviance analysis detected significant differences between the cultivars in both groups. Selective accuracy (Ac) was considered high for most of the traits. Broad-sense heritability ( ) ranged from 0.05 to 0.72, but it was low for the trait yield (YLD). In the carioca grain group, the ​​  values for the traits related to plant morphology were higher than in the black group. Nevertheless, the ​​  values in the black group were higher in relation to the pod and seed traits. The correlations for YLD were moderate but different in the two commercial groups studied. In the black group, variables related to the seed morphology were correlated with grain yield, and in the carioca group, traits related to seed quantity. Based on the groupings, variability among the cultivars was observed. Three distinct clusters were formed for the carioca group and four for the black group. Based on the predicted genetic values, genetic variability and the most adapted and stable cultivars were detected among the cultivars in the studied environments.

 

#This article has been posted in Preprints with a doi 10.20944/preprints201803.0215.v1 (https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/201803.0215/v1) (Creative Commons CC BY 4.0 license)

*Corresponding author, Email: leandrosag@uel.br
Effects of solid-state fermentation on the nutritional components and antioxidant properties from quinoa
Authors: Xu L. N. , Guo S. , Zhang S. W.
Published: June 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of solid-state fermentation (SSF) (25℃, 35 days) with three filamentous fungi (Helvella lacunosa X1, Agaricus bisporus AS2796 and Fomitiporia yanbeiensis G1) on the nutrient substance and antioxidant properties of quinoa. As a result, it showed that the nutritional components in fermented - quinoa varied with the starter strains. Among the three starter fungi, AS2796 gave the highest protein contents (28.46 g/100g), which was 2.34 times higher than control (unfermented quinoa); F. G1 gave the lowest values of soluble starch and crude fat (18.46 g/100g and 3.31 g/100g), which were 35.2% and 58.5% lower than that of control, respectively; and H. X1 gave the highest content of reducing sugar (5.62g/100g), which was 5.50 times higher than that of control. The total phenolics of quinoa fermented by AS2796 reached its maximum value (1.38mg/g, 35days), which was 1.97 holds higher than control. According to antioxidant test in vitro of ethanolic extracts of fermented quinoa, it showed that H. X1 gave the highest DPPH radical scavenging capacity and reducing power, F.G1 gave the highest superoxide anion radical scavenging ability. Either the starter strains or fermentation time resulted in a significant change in the antioxidant activities.
Pre-harvest application of salicylic acid influence physicochemical and quality characteristics of ‘Chimarrita’ peaches during cold storage
Authors: Miranda Jakellinye , Andressa Vighi Schiavon Suélen Braga de Andrade, , Kaltbach Lemos Pedro Luis Panisson , Madruga Lima Cláudia Simone , Malgarim Marcelo Barbosa
Published: June 2019

Peach is a climacteric highly-perishable fruit whose post-harvest preservation relies largely on cold storage. The combination of the last with other technologies allows to extend the shelf life of this product. One alternative is the utilization of salicylic acid, a natural compound involved in many physiological phenomena such as resistance against diseases and ripening. Considering these facts, the objective of the present work was to evaluate the effect of pre-harvest application of salicylic acid solutions on the quality of ‘Chimarrita’ peaches during post-harvest cold storage. The experiment was conducted at the Federal University of Pelotas/RS, in the campus of Capão do Leão/RS - Brazil. The application of salicylic acid solutions was performed by direct pulverization on the fruits, 30 days prior to harvest. The concentrations were: 0,0 (control); 1,0; 1,5; and 2,0 mM. After harvest, the fruits were stored in a cold chamber at 1,0 ± 0,5°C and 85-90% RH, for 30 days. The analyses were performed at the following cold storage periods (plus 2 days at room temperature of 20°C to all treatments, in order to simulate commercialization conditions): 10 (+2) days; 20 (+2) days; e 30 (+2) days. The variables evaluated were: mass loss (%); flesh firmness (N); DA index; color (L, a*, b* and hue angle); wooliness incidence (%); rot incidence (%); total soluble solids (°Brix); pH; titrable acidity (% of organic acids); and ratio. The salicylic acid doses and/or the cold storage periods had significant effects on all the evaluated parameters. For most of the parameters analyzed, the intermediate dosis of 1mM (and also 1,5mM) of salicilic acid showed the most promising results. Therefore, the application of salicylic acid solutions 30 days prior to harvest is a technique which can be combined to cold storage in order to shift the quality and the shelf-life of ‘Chimarrita’ peaches.
Effects of straw incorporation on nitrogen absorption of split fertilizer applications and on rice growth
Authors: D. Wang, Z. Cao, C. Wang Jicheng Zheng, Gang Zhang, , Yan Dezhi
Published: June 2019

A greenhouse experiment investigated the effect and mechanism of straw incorporation (0 and 6 t ha−1) on the absorption of fertilizer nitrogen (N) of split applications and on the growth of rice shoots and roots. N fertilizer was split into: (1) base fertilizer (BF), incorporated before transplanting; (2) tillering fertilizer (TF), broadcasted at tillering stage; and (3) panicle-formation fertilizer (PF), broadcasted at panicle-formation stage. 15N-urea was used as one of three splits. To evaluate the hypothesis that straw incorporation influences the 15N absorption of one split by enhancing 15N immobilization or changing root growth, we measured the 15N residual rate in soil at maturity and root growth throughout the rice-growing season. Straw incorporation significantly decreased 15N absorption of BF, accompanied by significantly higher 15N immobilization in soil than in the no-straw treatment. However, straw incorporation significantly increased 15N absorption of top-dressing (both TF and PF), accompanied by significantly greater dry matter and length of surface roots (0–5 cm depth) throughout the rice-growing season (top-dressing 15N was seldom found in soils > 5 cm). Shoot dry matter with straw incorporation decreased significantly in the early stage but increased in the late stage, compared with the no-straw treatment, and shoot total N with straw incorporation decreased significantly throughout the rice-growing season (this negative effect had decreased by the late stage). To better synchronize N supply with rice demand and reduce the risk of water eutrophication, N levels of BF and top-dressing should be reviewed when straw is incorporated.
Evaluation of allelopathic competency of Lamium amplexicaule and identification of its allelopathic active substance
Authors: Masahiko Suzuki Chisato Sakamoto, , Kiyotake Suenaga Arihiro Iwasaki, , Noguchi Hisashi Kato-
Published: June 2019

The weedy annual grass Lamium amplexicaule (L.) originated from the Mediterranean region, spreads quickly, and becomes naturalized in areas it invades. It was assumed that volatile phytotoxic substances are one of the invasive characteristics of L. amplexicaule. However, no volatile compound has been found. Therefore, we re-evaluated the allelopathic potential of L. amplexicaule and investigated the phytotoxic substances with allelopathic activity. An extract of L. amplexicaule inhibited the root and shoot growth of Lepidium sativum, Lactuca sativa, Arctium lappa, Lolium multiflorum Lam., Echinochloa crus-galli, and Vulpia myuros, which indicates that the extract has an allelopathic effect. The extract was purified using bioassay-guided chromatographic separations, and a phytotoxic substance with allelopathic activity was isolated and characterized as methyl caffeate. The compound significantly inhibited the root and shoot growth of L. sativum and L. multiflorum. The present results suggest that methyl caffeate may contribute to the allelopathic effect of the L. amplexicaule extracts and consequently, may be partly responsible for the invasive characteristics of the species.
Characteristics of acid and pepsin solubilized collagens from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) scale
Authors: Kittiphattanabawon Phanat , Sriket Chodsana , Kishimura Hideki , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: June 2019

In Thailand, the production of tilapia is about 140,000 tons, which is the sixth tilapia production in the world. From the processing, the scale was generated as waste. To produce a value-added product, the production of collagen from tilapia scale could be an alternative. Generally, collagen from fish scale possesses a less fishy odor and flavor than that from fish bone and skin. From the results, the fish scale is an interesting alternative source for collagen extraction. The objectives of this study were to extract collagen from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) scale from the production of frozen tilapia fillet as well as to study its properties. Extraction of acid (ASC) and pepsin soluble collagens (PSC) from Nile tilapia scale, as well as the determination of their yield, amino acid compositions, SDS-PAGE patterns, FTIR spectra, thermal denaturation temperature (Tmax) and zeta potential, was conducted. ASC and PSC had a yield of 0.77 and 0.71% based on dry basis), respectively. The major amino acid found in both collagens was glycine (322-332 residues/1000 residues). Also, they had a high amount of imino acid (199-205 residues/1000 residues). Based on SDS-PAGE pattern, both collagens were classified as type I collagen ((α1)2α2-heterotrimer). The similar FTIR spectra of both collagens were found. Their amide peaks had no shift in wavenumber. ASC and PSC had Tmax of 36.15 and 34.70 °C, respectively. From zeta potential analysis, ASC and PSC had the zero of net chart at pH 5.09 and 5.84, respectively. Based on the characteristics of the collagen, the scale could be an alternative source for collagen production, however their yield should be improved to serve as a potential source for further application.
Agronomical and Physiological Characters of Kaffir Lime (Citrus hystrixDC) Seedling under Artificial Shading and Pruning
Authors: Roedhy Poerwanto Rahmat Budiarto, , Efendi, Andria Agusta Edi Santosa, Darda
Published: June 2019

Kaffir lime (Citrus hystrix DC) is a minor citrus and its leaves are locally used for spices and essential oils. This study aimed to evaluate agronomical and physiological characters of kaffir lime seedling under modified cultural practices in order to improve leaf production. Shading and pruning were applied on five-month-old seedling during the rainy season, November 2017 to March 2018 in Bogor, Indonesia. The results showed that shading significantly improved the plant growth by 84%, and leaf number by 37%. Pruning treatment reduced the plant height by 8% and increased the shoot number by 20%. However, leaf production was more influenced by shading rather than pruning, with an increase for about 59% than control. This study also revealed a significant improvement on photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and water use efficiency on shaded lime for about 13%, 8% and 14%, respectively. Leaf pigment was also altered in response to shading, i.e the increasing chlorophyll B by 23% and the reduction anthocyanin by 38% on shaded lime. Mild shading with 24% light reduction is recommended to gain the leaf production of kaffir lime seedling.
Change in quality during ripening of olive fruits and related oils extracted from three minor autochthonous Sardinian cultivars
Authors: Conte Paola , F. Caponio G. Squeo, G. Difonzo, , P. P. Urgeghe, L. Montanari C. Fadda, A. Del Caro, , Montinaro Antonio , Piga Antonio
Published: June 2019

Ripening stage is one of the key factors in determining quality of olive fruits and related oils. This research, thus, was aimed to study the influence of three different harvesting times on the quality parameters of olives and related oils of three autochthonous Sardinian cultivars, Sivigliana da olio, Semidana, and Corsicana da olio. We evaluated several parameters in olive fruits (dry matter, oil content, total soluble solids, total polyphenol and antioxidant activity) and oils (legal indices, total chlorophylls and tocopherols, single polyphenols and volatile compounds, antioxidant activity). The results obtained in olive fruits showed that all the parameters changed significantly during ripening and seem to confirm that the best harvesting time is that selected by the growers, that is when 70% of olives has just turned dark-colored and the rest is green. Results on oil evidenced that all the samples fulfilled the requirements of the European community for extra-virgin olive oils and showed a decrease in total chlorophylls and tocopherols, simple phenols and antioxidant activity during ripening, except for Sivigliana da olio oils, which evidenced an increase in simple polyphenols at the last sampling. A total of 17 volatile compounds were found on oils and those responsible for the green notes of the oils increased during ripening. PCA analysis well distinguished Sivigliana da olio olives from the other two cultivars and, in general, the genetic factor better explained variability, with respect to the ripening degree.
Modeling of Cosolvent and Temperature Effects on Ethanolic Extraction of Pequi and Murici Seeds
Authors: Araújo Ana Cristina Moreira Andrade , Gabriel Ribeiro Carvalho Érica Resende Oliveira, , Fabiana Queiroz Evandro Galvão Tavarez Menezes,
Published: June 2019

One of the main products extracted from seeds is the oil, which have great importance in human food. They help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and antioxidants. The oil extraction process can be carried out in different ways, being one of them the solvent extraction. Ethanol is a solvent with the potential to replace hexane, which is a renewable and non-toxic solvent. However, the oil shows low solubility in ethanol, and it is important to study cosolvents that may improve the solubility and yield of the oil extraction. A response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize the ethanolic extraction using cosolvents. The soluble solids yield and the retention index from pequi and murici seeds extraction using ethanol and cosolvents (hexane and isopropanol) were estimated. Soluble solids greatest recovery was with 10% of each cosolvent at 45 °C, for both pequi and murici seeds. The low retention index obtained represents a greater efficiency in the extraction process, however, the empirical model did not describe this variable for murici seeds; and it was independent from the cosolvents mass fraction concerning the pequi almonds. Temperature was a parameter with high influence on the recovery of soluble solids and retention index of pequi and murici seeds solid-liquid extraction process. This paper provides a comprehensive approach to murici and pequi seeds waste oil production from an industrial perspective, by using biorenewable solvents, such as ethanol.
Optimization of the conditions for producing soy protein isolate films
Authors: Paglione Isabela dos Santos , Galindo Marcella Vitoria , Souza Karen Cristine de , Yamashita Fabio , Setsuko Sakanaka, Marianne Ayumi Shirai Carlos Raimundo Ferreira Grosso, Lyssa
Published: June 2019

The soy protein isolate (SPI) is a biopolymer highlighted as a raw material for producing films and demands the investigation of the processing conditions that make it possible to obtain a film with adequate functional properties. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of the pH and concentration of SPI on the mechanical properties, water vapor permeability, solubility, and color of the SPI films produced by casting using a central composite rotational design (CCRD). In general, the films presented a yellow coloration with a continuous aspect, good handling, and no apparent glycerol migration. The linear effect of pH positively influenced the tensile strength (TS) and elongation at break (ELO) of the film (p <0.05) but negatively influence the solubility (SOL) and color parameter L* for which we obtained lower values ​​of SOL and L* at a high pH. This possibly occurred because of the denaturation of the soy proteins at an alkaline pH, far from the isoelectric point, resulting in their unfolding and solubilization which facilitated the interaction between the chains, forming a more compact structure. Considering the optimization by the desirability function, to obtain a film with high TS and ELO and low SOL, it is necessary to use 7.56 g/100 g of SPI film-forming solution and to adjust the film-producing solution to pH 10.54.
Influence of delayed cooling on quality of bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) stored in a controlled chamber
Authors: Milon Chowdhury Md. Shaha Nur Kabir, , Yong-Soo Hwang Wang-Hee Lee, , Cho Seong-In , Chung Sun-Ok
Published: June 2019

Improper postharvest handling, including delaying cooling, is a big concern for maintaining the freshness of fruit and vegetables in the postharvest supply chain. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of short delays in cooling on some important quality parameters such as physiological weight loss, firmness, total soluble solids (TSS), and color (L*, h°, and C*) values of bell peppers stored in a controlled chamber. Bell peppers treated with three different treatments showed a gradual physiological weight loss of 1.46%, 3.18%, and 3.14% after a storage period of 15 days with: immediate storage (IS) after harvest in a controlled chamber, delaying storage (DS), leaving bell pepper without cover for one day, and under cover (DSC) separately in a greenhouse and then storing them in the controlled chamber, respectively. Over the storage period, slower firmness reduction (19.88%) of the IS treated bell peppers was observed compared to other bell pepper samples with delayed cooling. Bell peppers that underwent IS treatment showed lower changes in TSS (°Bx) values (6.89 to 7.24) compared to other treatments during the storage period. Fewer changes in color (L*, h°, and C*) values were found with IS treated bell peppers. Overall changes in the assessed quality parameters of bell pepper samples were slower with IS treatment than delayed cooling treatments throughout the storage period. This study provides significant information on the handling of harvested bell pepper in a favorable environment before transportation to processing and storage centers.
Liquid egg products characterization during storage as a response of novel phyto-additives added in hens diet
Authors: Panaite Tatiana Dumitra , Mădălina Iuga Silvia Mironeasa, , Vlaicu Petru Alexandru
Published: June 2019

This study aims to assess the effect of novel phyto-additives (bilberry leaves, walnut leaves, sea-buckthorn pomace and a mix of bilberry leaves, walnut leaves and sea-buckthorn pomace) added in hens diet on the liquid egg components (egg albumen, egg yolk and whole liquid egg) during storage. The phyto-additives added to the basic feed remarkably affected almost all the characteristics investigated, colour, pH and rheological behaviour of liquid egg products. The changes of egg yolk and albumen's colour and pH were not uniform. The supplementation of feeding with walnut leaves decreases significantly (p < 0.01) the luminosity of egg yolk, whereas the luminosity of egg albumen increases compared to the control. The pH values were influenced by the type of phyto-additive added in the hens diet, but its variations were only slightly dependent on the storage time of eggs. The rheological properties showed a pseudoplasticity of egg components depending on the hens diet and egg storage time. Ostwald-de Waele model fitted well with the rheological data, offering information on the changes of the apparent viscosity in relation to the diet type and storage time. The results indicated that these novel phyto-additives could be incorporated in hens diet for production of improved eggs quality and walnut leaves having a remarkable effect.
Effect of using acid whey for marinating chicken breast muscles in organic production
Authors: Małgorzata Ormian Anna Augustyńska-Prejsnar, , Kluz Maciej , Sokołowicz Zofia
Published: June 2019

Currently, there is an increase in the group of consumers looking for poultry products obtained from the organic housing system, who pay attention to the relationship between diet and health. The research material consisted of breast muscles of organic chickens that were marinated for 24 hours with acid marinades: acid whey (n=30) and lemon juice (n=30). Acid whey was used in the study as a new ingredient in comparison to the traditional ingredient of marinades (lemon juice). The control group (n=30) were non-marinated breast muscles. The physicochemical parameters (marinade absorption, pH, Water Holding Capacity, colour L*a*b*, shear force, chemical composition) and microbiological (mesophilic aerobic bacteria, Pseudomonas spp., coli group, lactic acid bacteria) ones of breast muscles were evaluated immediately after marinating, as well as after grilling treatment. The sensory evaluation was also conducted. Raw breast muscles marinated using whey, in comparison with those marinated with lemon juice, were characterized by (p<0,05) a higher absorption of the marinade, lower saturation of the redness (a*), better tenderness measured by the shear force (N) and higher ash content. Also, after heat treatment, marinated breast muscles maintained a better (p<0,05) tenderness and juiciness and higher ash content. The study has shown that acid whey can be used as a new marinade in organic chicken meat marinades, as it causes a reduction in the redness saturation, higher ash content, improvement of tenderness and juiciness and increase in the microbiological safety of the product. The use of acid whey meets the expectations of consumers for the use of natural food additives that have a positive impact on human health.
Colloids
Authors: Schramm Laurier L.
Published: June 2019

A colloid comprises a collection of small particles, droplets, or bubbles of one phase having at least one dimension between about 1 and 1000 nm and dispersed in a second phase. Either or both phases may be in gas, liquid, solid, or supercritical phase states. Another property that distinguishes colloidal dispersions is the extremely large area of the interface between the two phases compared with the mass of the dispersed phase. A consequence is that any chemical and physical phenomena that depend on the existence of an interface become very prominent in colloidal dispersions. Colloidal systems are important because they feature prominently, in both desirable and undesirable contexts, in a wide variety of practical disciplines, products, and industrial processes. The field of colloids also overlaps heavily with the field of nanotechnology. The problems associated with colloids are usually interdisciplinary in nature, and a broad scientific base is required to understand them completely. This article provides an introduction to the field of colloids, emphasizing the wide range of practical and industrial applications.
Fillers and Filled Plastics
Authors: DeArmitt Chris
Published: June 2019

Functional fillers are used to enhance the intrinsic properties of plastics and to impart entirely new effects. Addition of a filler changes many properties at once, so successful formulation depends on an understanding of structure–property relationships in order to maximize the desirable effects and minimize any detrimental changes.

This article gives guidance on the selection of ingredients, that is, polymers, fillers, and surface treatments, as well as on aspects related to their processing and influence on the performance of the final part. The reader will gain a firm grasp of the topic as well as suggestions for further reading. Some myths and misunderstandings are explained, and new insights into filled plastics are revealed.
When One Genome Is Not Enough: Organellar Heteroplasmy in Plants
Authors: Ramsey Adam J. , Mandel Jennifer R.
Published: June 2019

Heteroplasmy occurs when copies of an organellar genome (plastid or mitochondrial) differ from one another either within a cell or among cells within an individual. This phenomenon was first discovered in plastids over 100 years ago, though ‘heteroplasmy’ was not formally defined until decades later. Mitochondrial and plastid heteroplasmy have since been discovered in diverse taxa, including numerous plants, particularly those with the gynodioecious breeding system. Though heteroplasmy can arise through mutations in organellar genomes, biparental inheritance of organelles often generates heteroplasmy. This article is intended to summarise the cytoploid nature of organellar genomes and different aspects of mitochondrial and plastid heteroplasmy, from its discovery, to the development of detection methods. We will also discuss the effects of heteroplasmy on individuals, populations, and species, with regard to fitness, cytonuclear interactions, and genome evolution. Finally, we highlight a few research questions which we consider in need of further investigation to understand the prevalence and effects of heteroplasmy in natural settings.
Clinical and molecular findings in a cohort of ANO5‐related myopathy
Authors: Silva André M. S. , Coimbra-Neto Antônio R. , Souza Paulo Victor S. , Winckler Pablo B. , Gonçalves Marcus V. M. , Cavalcanti Eduardo B. U. , Carvalho Alzira A. D. S. , Sobreira Cláudia F. D. R. , Camelo Clara G. , Mendonça Rodrigo D. H. , Estephan Eduardo D. P. , Reed Umbertina C. , Machado-Costa Marcela C. , Dourado-Junior Mario E. T. , Pereira Vanessa C. , Cruzeiro Marcelo M. , Helito Paulo V. P. , Aivazoglou Laís U. , Camargo Leonardo V. D. , Gomes Hudson H. , Camargo Amaro J. S. D. , Pinto Wladimir B. V. D. R. , Badia Bruno M. L. , Libardi Luiz H. , Yanagiura Mario T. , Oliveira Acary S. B. , Nucci Anamarli , Saute Jonas A. M. , França-Junior Marcondes C. , Zanoteli Edmar
Published: June 2019

Objective

ANO5‐related myopathy is an important cause of limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) and hyperCKemia. The main descriptions have emerged from European cohorts, and the burden of the disease worldwide is unclear. We provide a detailed characterization of a large Brazilian cohort of ANO5 patients.

Methods

A national cross‐sectional study was conducted to describe clinical, histopathological, radiological, and molecular features of patients carrying recessive variants in ANO5. Correlation of clinical and genetic characteristics with different phenotypes was studied.

Results

Thirty‐seven patients from 34 nonrelated families with recessive mutations of ANO5 were identified. The most common phenotype was LGMD, observed in 25 (67.5%) patients, followed by pseudometabolic presentation in 7 (18.9%) patients, isolated asymptomatic hyperCKemia in 4 (10.8%) patients, and distal myopathy in a single patient. Nine patients presented axial involvement, including one patient with isolated axial weakness. The most affected muscles according to MRI were the semimembranosus and gastrocnemius, but paraspinal and abdominal muscles, when studied, were involved in most patients. Fourteen variants in ANO5 were identified, and the c.191dupA was present in 19 (56%) families. Sex, years of disease, and the presence of loss‐of‐function variants were not associated with specific phenotypes.

Interpretation

We present the largest series of anoctaminopathy outside Europe. The most common European founder mutation c.191dupA was very frequent in our population. Gender, disease duration, and genotype did not determine the phenotype.
A Review on High‐Strength Titanium Alloys: Microstructure, Strengthening, and Properties
Authors: Kang LiMei , Yang Chao
Published: June 2019

The authors review the recent advances in the development of high‐strength titanium alloys. First, they summarize conventional strengthening approaches and their mechanisms, thecorresponding microstructures, and the optimized mechanical properties. Subsequently, various strengthening strategies for high‐strength titanium alloys are discussed. Finally, examples of the successful development of high‐strength titanium alloys based on amorphous crystallization via solid and semi‐solid sintering are presented. The review of the interrelation between the microstructure, the strengthening, and the properties may provide significant insight into achieving novel high‐strength titanium alloys.
Suppression of Austenite Grain Coarsening by Using Nb–Ti Microalloying in High Temperature Carburizing of a Gear Steel
Authors: An Xiaoxue , Tian Yong , Wang Haojie , Shen Yongfeng , Wang Zhaodong
Published: June 2019

Austenite grain coarsening behavior during pseudo‐carburizing is investigated in a 18CrNiMo7‐6 steel, Nb microalloyed, and Nb–Ti microalloyed 18CrNiMo7‐6 steels, which are designed to evaluate the effects of Nb–Ti microalloying on suppressing austenite grain growth at elevated temperatures appropriate to high temperature carburizing operations. Pseudo‐carburizing heat treatments, without carburizing atmosphere, are performed in the temperature range of 850–1150 °C for 0.5–8 h. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) incorporated with EDS spectra is used to investigate the morphology and size distributions of precipitates in pseudo‐carburized specimens. The results show that Nb–Ti microalloying has an obvious advantage in restraining austenite grain growth and increasing the grain coarsening temperature. Even in the temperature range of 1000–1150 °C, Nb–Ti microalloyed steel produces fine and uniform grain structures. The fine grain sizes observed in Nb–Ti microalloyed steel are attributed to the pinning effect of Nb–Ti precipitates that hinder austenite grain coarsening. The key reason for the significant difference of grain growth mechanisms between the base steel and Nb–Ti microalloyed steel is because Nb–Ti microalloying changes grain growth kinetic of the base steel. The results indicate that Nb–Ti microalloying can be successfully used to suppress grain growth in gear steels for high temperature carburizing.
Helical‐Like 3D Ultrathin Piezoelectric Element for Complicated Ultrasonic Field
Authors: Chen Xiaoyang , Qian Xuejun , Lam Kwok‐Ho , Chiu Chi Tat , Chen Ruimin , Chen Zeyu , Shung K. Kirk , Yu Ping , Zhou Qifa
Published: June 2019

The developments of personalized medicine, ultrasound imaging, and contactless “microscopic handle” techniques are pushing ultrasonic transducers toward features of high frequency, device miniaturization, and even novel function. However, the conventional ultrasonic transducer has severely limited the development of novel ideas for applications due to its ordinary ultrasonic field. Although transducer arrays and monolithic acoustic holograms are capable of producing the complicated ultrasonic field, it is still difficult to achieve high frequency, device miniaturization, and novel function simultaneously. Here, a simple but effective approach is introduced that aims at reconstructing the complicated and high‐frequency ultrasonic field via a compact single‐element ultrasonic transducer. The 3D ultrathin piezoelectric element with a complex configuration is demonstrated theoretically and experimentally to produce the desired complicated ultrasonic field. With helical‐like configuration, the single‐element ultrasonic transducer offers efficient noncontact trapping and manipulation of suspended microparticles and biological cells. Moreover, its strong trapping capability leads to the 3D stacking of microparticles, which is a novel and interesting phenomenon achieved by a single‐element ultrasonic transducer. This work brings the possibility of a complicated ultrasonic field for achieving novel high‐frequency ultrasound applications through the design of smart structure ultrathin piezoelectric materials.
Mo6S3Br6: An Anisotropic 2D Superatomic Semiconductor
Authors: Zhong Xinjue , Lee Kihong , Meggiolaro Daniele , Dismukes Avalon H. , Choi Bonnie , Wang Feifan , Nuckolls Colin , Paley Daniel W. , Batail Patrick , De Angelis Filippo , Roy Xavier , Zhu Xiaoyang‐Y.
Published: June 2019

Two‐dimensional (2D) van der Waals materials with in‐plane anisotropy are of great interest for directional transport of charge and energy, as exemplified by recent studies on black phosphorus and α‐phase molybdenum trioxide (α‐MO3). Here, a layered van der Waals semiconductor with in‐plane anisotropy built upon the superatomic units of Mo6S3Br6 is reported. This material possesses robust 2D characteristics with a direct gap of 1.64 eV, as determined by scanning tunneling spectroscopy and first‐principles calculations. Polarization‐dependent Raman spectroscopy measurement and density functional theory calculation reveal strong in‐plane anisotropy. These results suggest an effective strategy to explore anisotropic 2D electronic and optoelectronic properties from superatomic building blocks with multifunctionality, emergent properties, and hierarchical control.
Contact Lens Technology: From Fundamentals to Applications
Authors: Moreddu Rosalia , Vigolo Daniele , Yetisen Ali K.
Published: June 2019

Contact lenses are ocular prosthetic devices used by over 150 million people worldwide. Primary applications of contact lenses include vision correction, therapeutics, and cosmetics. Contact lens materials have significantly evolved over time to minimize adverse effects associated with contact lens wearing, to maintain a regular corneal metabolism, and to preserve tear film stability. This article encompasses contact lens technology, including materials, chemical and physical properties, manufacturing processes, microbial contamination, and ocular complications. The function and the composition of the tear fluid are discussed to assess its potential as a diagnostic media. The regulatory standards of contact lens devices with regard to biocompatibility and contact lens market are presented. Future prospects in contact lens technology are evaluated, with particular interest given to theranostic applications for in situ continuous monitoring the ocular physiology.
Pt‐Based Nanocrystal for Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Zhao Zipeng , Chen Changli , Liu Zeyan , Huang Jin , Wu Menghao , Liu Haotian , Li Yujing , Huang Yu
Published: June 2019

Currently, Pt‐based electrocatalysts are adopted in the practical proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), which converts the energy stored in hydrogen and oxygen into electrical power. However, the broad implementation of the PEMFC, like replacing the internal combustion engine in the present automobile fleet, sets a requirement for less Pt loading compared to current devices. In principle, the requirement needs the Pt‐based catalyst to be more active and stable. Two main strategies, engineering of the electronic (d‐band) structure (including controlling surface facet, tuning surface composition, and engineering surface strain) and optimizing the reactant adsorption sites are discussed and categorized based on the fundamental working principle. In addition, general routes for improving the electrochemical surface area, which improves activity normalized by the unit mass of precious group metal/platinum group metal, and stability of the electrocatalyst are also discussed. Furthermore, the recent progress of full fuel cell tests of novel electrocatalysts is summarized. It is suggested that a better understanding of the reactant/intermediate adsorption, electron transfer, and desorption occurring at the electrolyte–electrode interface is necessary to fully comprehend these electrified surface reactions, and standardized membrane electrode assembly (MEA) testing protocols should be practiced, and data with full parameters detailed, for reliable evaluation of catalyst functions in devices.