bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the Strain Path Effect on the Deformed Microstructure of Single Crystal Pure Aluminum
Authors: Xiong Yingjue , Luan Qinmeng , Zheng Kailun , Wang Wei , Jiang Jun
Published: July 2021

During plastic deformation, the change of structural states is known to be complicated and indeterminate, even in single crystals. This contributes to some enduring problems like the prediction of deformed texture and the commercial applications of such material. In this work, plane strain compression (PSC) tests were designed and implemented on single crystal pure aluminum to reveal the deformation mechanism. PSC tests were performed at different strain rates under strain control in either one-directional or two-directional compression. The deformed microstructures were analyzed according to the flow curve and the electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD) mappings. The effects of grain orientation, strain rate, and strain path on the deformation and mechanical response were analyzed. Experimental results revealed that the degree of lattice rotation of one-dimensional compression mildly dependents on cube orientation, but it is profoundly sensitive to the strain rate. For two-dimensional compression, the softening behavior is found to be more pronounced in the case that provides greater dislocations gliding freeness in the first loading. Results presented in this work give new insights into aluminum deformation, which provides theoretical support for forming and manufacturing of aluminum.
Structure, Corrosion Resistance, Mechanical and Tribological Properties of ZrB2 and Zr-B-N Coatings
Authors: Kiryukhantsev-Korneev Philipp , Sytchenko Alina , Kaplanskii Yuriy , Sheveyko Alexander , Vorotilo Stepan , Levashov Evgeny
Published: July 2021

The coatings ZrB2 and Zr-B-N were deposited by magnetron sputtering of ZrB2 target in Ar and Ar–15%N2 atmospheres. The structure and properties of the coatings were investigated via scanning and transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersion analysis, optical profilometry, glowing discharge optical emission spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. Mechanical and tribological properties of the coatings were investigated using nanoindentation, “pin-on-disc” tribological testing and “ball-on-plate” impact testing. Free corrosion potential and corrosion current density were measured by electrochemical testing in 1 N H2SO4 and 3.5%NaCl solutions. The oxidation resistance of the coatings was investigated in the 600–800 °C temperature interval. The coatings deposited in Ar contained 4–11 nm grains of the h-ZrB2 phase along with free boron. Nitrogen-containing coatings consisted of finer crystals (1–4 nm) of h-ZrB2, separated by interlayers of amorphous a-BN. Both types of coatings featured hardness of 22–23 GPa; however, the introduction of nitrogen decreased the coating’s elastic modulus from 342 to 266 GPa and increased the elastic recovery from 62 to 72%, which enhanced the wear resistance of the coatings. N-doped coatings demonstrated a relatively low friction coefficient of 0.4 and a specific wear rate of ~1.3 × 10−6 mm3N−1m−1. Electrochemical investigations revealed that the introduction of nitrogen into the coatings resulted in the decrease of corrosion current density in 3.5% NaCl and 1 N H2SO4 solution up to 3.5 and 5 times, correspondingly. The superior corrosion resistance of Zr-B-N coatings was related to the finer grains size and increased volume of the BN phase. The samples ZrB2 and Zr-B-N resisted oxidation at 600 °C. N-free coatings resisted oxidation (up to 800 °C) and the diffusion of metallic elements from the substrate better. In contrast, Zr-B-N coatings experienced total oxidation and formed loose oxide layers, which could be easily removed from the substrate.
Failure Mechanism and Strength Prediction Model of T-Joint of Composite Sandwich Structure
Authors: Liu Yang , Li Mingxuan , Lu Xiaofeng , Zhu Xiaolei
Published: July 2021

Composite sandwich structures are widely used in many fields. T-joint plays a significant role in the composite sandwich structural connection. In this paper, a type of adhesive T-joint was manufactured and tested under bending and shearing load. According to the experiment, the finite element model was established to reveal the failure process. A strength prediction model was proposed based on the simulation. The results showed that the T-joint’s lower connector and the web’s lower face panel controlled its maximum load-bearing capacity, and the failure mode is the fiber compressive damage. The predicted ultimate bearing capacity of the T-joint showed a good agreement with the simulation, and the maximum relative error was less than 3%.
Artificial Neural Network Assisted Error Correction for MLC NAND Flash Memory
Authors: He Ruiquan , Hu Haihua , Xiong Chunru , Han Guojun
Published: July 2021

The multilevel per cell technology and continued scaling down process technology significantly improves the storage density of NAND flash memory but also brings about a challenge in that data reliability degrades due to the serious noise. To ensure the data reliability, many noise mitigation technologies have been proposed. However, they only mitigate one of the noises of the NAND flash memory channel. In this paper, we consider all the main noises and present a novel neural network-assisted error correction (ANNAEC) scheme to increase the reliability of multi-level cell (MLC) NAND flash memory. To avoid using retention time as an input parameter of the neural network, we propose a relative log-likelihood ratio (LLR) to estimate the actual LLR. Then, we transform the bit detection into a clustering problem and propose to employ a neural network to learn the error characteristics of the NAND flash memory channel. Therefore, the trained neural network has optimized performances of bit error detection. Simulation results show that our proposed scheme can significantly improve the performance of the bit error detection and increase the endurance of NAND flash memory.
Microorganisms Associated with Mosquito Oviposition Sites: Implications for Habitat Selection and Insect Life Histories
Authors: Girard Maxime , Martin Edwige , Vallon Laurent , Raquin Vincent , Bellet Christophe , Rozier Yves , Desouhant Emmanuel , Hay Anne-Emmanuelle , Luis Patricia , Valiente Moro Claire , Minard Guillaume
Published: July 2021

Mosquitoes are considered one of the most important threats worldwide due to their ability to vector pathogens. They are responsible for the transmission of major pathogens such as malaria, dengue, zika, or chikungunya. Due to the lack of treatments or prophylaxis against many of the transmitted pathogens and an increasing prevalence of mosquito resistance to insecticides and drugs available, alternative strategies are now being explored. Some of these involve the use of microorganisms as promising agent to limit the fitness of mosquitoes, attract or repel them, and decrease the replication and transmission of pathogenic agents. In recent years, the importance of microorganisms colonizing the habitat of mosquitoes has particularly been investigated since they appeared to play major roles in their development and diseases transmission. In this issue, we will synthesize researches investigating how microorganisms present within water habitats may influence breeding site selection and oviposition strategies of gravid mosquito females. We will also highlight the impact of such microbes on the fate of females’ progeny during their immature stages with a specific focus on egg hatching, development rate, and larvae or pupae survival.
Simultaneous Removal of the Freshwater Bloom-Forming Cyanobacterium Microcystis and Cyanotoxin Microcystins via Combined Use of Algicidal Bacterial Filtrate and the Microcystin-Degrading Enzymatic Agent, MlrA
Authors: Wang Suqin , Yang Siyu , Zuo Jun , Hu Chenlin , Song Lirong , Gan Nanqin , Chen Peng
Published: July 2021

Freshwater cyanobacterial blooms (e.g., Microcystis blooms) constitute a major global environmental problem because of their risks to public health and aquatic ecological systems. Current physicochemical treatments of toxic cyanobacteria cause the significant release of cyanotoxin microcystins from damaged cells. Biological control is a promising eco-friendly technology to manage harmful cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins. Here, we demonstrated an efficient biological control strategy at the laboratory scale to simultaneously remove Microcystis and microcystins via the combined use of the algicidal bacterial filtrate and the microcystin-degrading enzymatic agent. The algicidal indigenous bacterium Paenibacillus sp. SJ-73 was isolated from the sediment of northern Lake Taihu, China, and the microcystin-degrading enzymatic agent (MlrA) was prepared via the heterologous expression of the mlrA gene in the indigenous microcystin-degrading bacterium Sphingopyxis sp. HW isolated from Lake Taihu. The single use of a fermentation filtrate (5%, v/v) of Paenibacillus sp. SJ-73 for seven days removed the unicellular Microcystis aeruginosa PCC 7806 and the native colonial Microcystis strain TH1701 in Lake Taihu by 84% and 92%, respectively, whereas the single use of MlrA removed 85% of microcystins. Used in combination, the fermentation filtrate and MlrA removed Microcystis TH1701 and microcystins by 92% and 79%, respectively. The present biological control thus provides an important technical basis for the further development of safe, efficient, and effective measures to manage Microcystis blooms and microcystins in natural waterbodies.
Petrogenesis of the Jurassic Guiping Complex in the Southwestern South China Block: Insights into the Subduction Processes of the Paleo-Pacific Slab
Authors: Lü Zhao-Ying , Ma Chang-Qian , Liu Yuan-Yuan , Xiong Fu-Hao , Wei Chang-Xin , Chen Mu-Long , Xue Gui-Cheng , He Yu-Sheng
Published: July 2021

Late Jurassic NE-trending A-type granitoids are widespread in the Shihang belt, South China, though their petrogenesis and geodynamic settings remain controversial. The Guiping complex is located on the southwest margin of the Shihang belt. In this study, the petrography, major and trace element geochemistry, whole-rock Sr-Nd isotopes, and zircon U-Pb geochronology of the Guiping complex were investigated. The Guiping complex is composed of the Fenghuangling and Xishan plutons; both plutons yielded zircon U-Pb ages of ca. 160 Ma. The Fenghuangling pluton has low SiO2 content of 54.26% to 60.31%, whereas the Xishan pluton exhibits high SiO2 content of 65.19% to 71.18%. Both of them are metaluminous and belong to the high-K calc-alkaline series and are enriched in large-ion lithophile elements (LILEs) such as Rb, Th, U, and Pb. The Fenghuangling and Xishan plutons showed enrichment in light rare earth elements (LREEs) and high-field strength elements (Nb, Ta, Zr, and Hf) and depletion in heavy rare earth elements (HREEs). Marked Nb and Ta negative anomalies were not observed. Due to the high contents of Zr + Ce + Nb + Y and high Ga/Al ratios, all the samples belonged to the group of A-type granites. The Fenghuangling and Xishan plutons had low ISr (mainly in the range of 0.7046–0.7058) and high εNd(t) (−0.60 to 1.94) values, though obviously different from those of the Precambrian basement in South China. Furthermore, they lie between the ocean island basalt (OIB) of the asthenosphere and the arc basaltic rocks of the enriched lithospheric mantle. Therefore, we proposed that the basaltic parental magma of the Guiping complex originated from partial melting of the enriched lithospheric mantle, which was metasomatized by asthenosphere-related OIB-type basaltic magma. Mafic microgranular enclaves in the Xishan pluton displayed positive Nb and Ta anomalies, which is consistent with OIB-type basalts. The enclaves also had similar Sr-Nd isotopic compositions to the Xishan pluton. That indicated that the enclaves were probably formed by mixing of the OIB-type basaltic magma and the Xishan pluton. In conclusion, the formation of the Late Jurassic NE-trending A-type granite belt was attributed to back-arc extension as a result of the rollback of the Paleo-Pacific Plate.
Reliability and Inspection Modelling of Railway Signalling Systems
Authors: Kumar Nikesh , Tee Kong Fah
Published: July 2021

The railway is one of the most prominent models of transportation across the globe and it carries a large number of people, thus requiring high reliability, maintainability and safety. The reliability of railways mostly depends on an effective signalling system, making it one of the critical parts of railway operation. A signalling system is part of a large array of systems with interconnected components and subcomponents. Therefore, there is a need to make the signalling system more reliable and optimised with enhanced fault detection. Proper inspection and maintenance are required to make the signalling system reliable and safe. In this study, different inspection modelling techniques are applied to find the reliability of the signalling system. The signalling system has been divided into subsystems (signal unit, track unit, point-and-point machine) considering their importance and their effects on the failure rate of the entire signalling system. Inspection modelling of each subsystem has been conducted to provide the basis for the entire signalling system. A case study has been investigated to validate the model developed in one of the busiest tracks in eastern India. The obtained data thus are used to analyse the inspection pattern of signalling subsystems. Special attention to maintenance for inspection activities and logistics support has been taken into consideration, which is required to improve the reliability and maintainability of signalling subsystems and systems to make the railway signalling system sustainable in the long run.
Thiourea Derivatives, Simple in Structure but Efficient Enzyme Inhibitors and Mercury Sensors
Authors: Rahman Faizan Ur , Bibi Maryam , Khan Ezzat , Shah Abdul Bari , Muhammad Mian , Tahir Muhammad Nawaz , Shahzad Adnan , Ullah Farhat , Zahoor Muhammad , Alamery Salman , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: July 2021

In this study six unsymmetrical thiourea derivatives, 1-isobutyl-3-cyclohexylthiourea (1), 1-tert-butyl-3-cyclohexylthiourea (2), 1-(3-chlorophenyl)-3-cyclohexylthiourea (3), 1-(1,1-dibutyl)-3-phenylthiourea (4), 1-(2-chlorophenyl)-3-phenylthiourea (5) and 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-phenylthiourea (6) were obtained in the laboratory under aerobic conditions. Compounds 3 and 4 are crystalline and their structure was determined for their single crystal. Compounds 3 is monoclinic system with space group P21/n while compound 4 is trigonal, space group R3:H. Compounds (1–6) were tested for their anti-cholinesterase activity against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase (hereafter abbreviated as, AChE and BChE, respectively). Potentials (all compounds) as sensing probes for determination of deadly toxic metal (mercury) using spectrofluorimetric technique were also investigated. Compound 3 exhibited better enzyme inhibition IC50 values of 50, and 60 µg/mL against AChE and BChE with docking score of −10.01, and −8.04 kJ/mol, respectively. The compound also showed moderate sensitivity during fluorescence studies.
Scarlet Flax Linum grandiflorum (L.) In Vitro Cultures as a New Source of Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Lignans
Authors: Asad Bushra , Khan Taimoor , Gul Faiza Zareen , Ullah Muhammad Asad , Drouet Samantha , Mikac Sara , Garros Laurine , Ferrier Manon , Bose Shankhamala , Munsch Thibaut , Tungmunnithum Duangjai , Lanoue Arnaud , Giglioli-Guivarc’h Nathalie , Hano Christophe , Abbasi Bilal Haider
Published: July 2021

In vitro cultures of scarlet flax (Linum grandiflorum L.), an important ornamental flax, have been established as a new possible valuable resource of lignans and neolignans for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory applications. The callogenic potential at different concentrations of α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and thidiazuron (TDZ), alone or in combinations, was evaluated using both L. grandiflorum hypocotyl and cotyledon explants. A higher callus induction frequency was observed on NAA than TDZ, especially for hypocotyl explants, with a maximum frequency (i.e., 95.2%) on 1.0 mg/L of NAA. The presence of NAA (1.0 mg/L) in conjunction with TDZ tended to increase the frequency of callogenesis relative to TDZ alone, but never reached the values observed with NAA alone, thereby indicating the lack of synergy between these two plant growth regulators (PGRs). Similarly, in terms of biomass, NAA was more effective than TDZ, with a maximum accumulation of biomass registered for medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L of NAA using hypocotyls as initial explants (DW: 13.1 g). However, for biomass, a synergy between the two PGRs was observed, particularly for cotyledon-derived explants and for the lowest concentrations of TDZ. The influence of these two PGRs on callogenesis and biomass is discussed. The HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of lignans (secoisolariciresinol (SECO) and lariciresinol (LARI) and neolignan (dehydrodiconiferyl alcohol [DCA]) naturally accumulated in their glycoside forms. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities performed for both hypocotyl- and cotyledon-derived cultures were also found maximal (DPPH: 89.5%, FRAP 866: µM TEAC, ABTS: 456 µM TEAC) in hypocotyl-derived callus cultures as compared with callus obtained from cotyledon explants. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory activities revealed high inhibition (COX-1: 47.4% and COX-2: 51.1%) for extract of hypocotyl-derived callus cultures at 2.5 mg/L TDZ. The anti-inflammatory action against COX-1 and COX-2 was supported by the IC50 values. This report provides a viable approach for enhanced biomass accumulation and efficient production of (neo)lignans in L. grandiflorum callus cultures.
Ni Foam-Supported Tin Oxide Nanowall Array: An Integrated Supercapacitor Anode
Authors: Tian Ye , Wang Qi , Peng Zhijian , Guan Shundong , Fu Xiuli
Published: July 2021

A novel product consisting of a homogeneous tin oxide nanowall array with abundant oxygen deficiencies and partial Ni-Sn alloying onto a Ni foam substrate was successfully prepared using a facile solvothermal synthesis process with subsequent thermal treatment in a reductive atmosphere. Such a product could be directly used as integrated anodes for supercapacitors, which showed outstanding electrochemical properties with a maximum specific capacitance of 31.50 mAh·g−1 at 0.1 A·g−1, as well as good cycling performance, with a 1.35-fold increase in capacitance after 10,000 cycles. An asymmetric supercapacitor composed of the obtained product as the anode and activated carbon as the cathode was shown to achieve a high potential window of 1.4 V. The excellent electrochemical performance of the obtained product is mainly ascribed to the hierarchical structure provided by the integrated, vertically grown nanowall array on 3D Ni foam, the existence of oxygen deficiency and the formation of Ni-Sn alloys in the nanostructures. This work provides a general strategy for preparing other high-performance metal oxide electrodes for electrochemical applications.
Vitamin E Can Ameliorate Oxidative Damage of Ovine Hepatocytes In Vitro by Regulating Genes Expression Associated with Apoptosis and Pyroptosis, but Not Ferroptosis
Authors: Jian Luyang , Xue Ying , Gao Yuefeng , Wang Bo , Qu Yanghua , Li Shuanghong , Li Heqiong , Li Zhen , Wang Bing , Luo Hailing
Published: July 2021

(1) Background: the current research was conducted to investigate the potential non-antioxidant roles of vitamin E in the protection of hepatocysts from oxidative damage. (2) Methods: primary sheep hepatocytes were cultured and exposed to 200, 400, 600, or 800 μmol/L hydrogen peroxide, while their viability was assessed using a CCK-8 kit. Then, cells were treated with 400 μmol/L hydrogen peroxide following a pretreatment with 50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 μmol/L vitamin E and their intracellular ROS levels were determined by means of the DCF-DA assay. RNA-seq, verified by qRT-PCR, was conducted thereafter: non-treated control (C1); cells treated with 400 μmol/L hydrogen peroxide (C2); and C2 plus a pretreatment with 100 μmol/L vitamin E (T1). (3) Results: the 200–800 μmol/L hydrogen peroxide caused significant cell death, while 50, 100, and 200 μmol/L vitamin E pretreatment significantly improved the survival rate of hepatocytes. ROS content in the cells pretreated with vitamin E was significantly lower than that in the control group and hydrogen-peroxide-treated group, especially in those pretreated with 100 μmol/L vitamin E. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) concerning cell death involved in apoptosis (RIPK1, TLR7, CASP8, and CASP8AP2), pyroptosis (NLRP3, IL-1β, and IRAK2), and ferroptosis (TFRC and PTGS2). The abundances of IL-1β, IRAK2, NLRP3, CASP8, CASP8AP2, RIPK1, and TLR7 were significantly increased in the C1 group and decreased in T1 group, while TFRC and PTGS2 were increased in T1 group. (4) Conclusions: oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide caused cellular damage and death in sheep hepatocytes. Pretreatment with vitamin E effectively reduced intracellular ROS levels and protected the hepatocytes from cell death by regulating gene expression associated with apoptosis (RIPK1, TLR7, CASP8, and CASP8AP2) and pyroptosis (NLRP3, IL-1β, and IRAK2), but not ferroptosis (TFRC and PTGS2).
8-, 9-, and 11-Aryloxy Dimeric Aporphines and Their Pharmacological Activities
Authors: Ali Ghada , Cuny Gregory D.
Published: July 2021

Aporphines, a major group of aporphinoid alkaloids, exhibit interesting and diverse pharmacological activities. A set of dimeric aporphines with an aryloxy group at C8, C9, and C11 have been isolated from six genera and shown to elicit various biological activities such as antitumor, antimalarial, antimicrobial, antiplatelet aggregation, antifibrotic, immunosuppressive, and vasorelaxant properties. In this review, the nomenclature, chemical structures, botanical sources, pharmacological activities, and synthetic approaches of this set of dimeric alkaloids are presented.
Redesigning Nature: Ruthenium Flavonoid Complexes with Antitumour, Antimicrobial and Cardioprotective Activities
Authors: Santos Nádia E. , Braga Susana Santos
Published: July 2021

Flavonoids are a class of natural polyphenolic compounds sharing a common 2-phenyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-1-benzopyran (flavan) backbone. Typically known for their antioxidant activity, flavonoids are also being investigated regarding antitumour and antimicrobial properties. In this review, we report on the complexation of both natural and synthetic flavonoids with ruthenium as a strategy to modulate the biological activity. The ruthenoflavonoid complexes are divided into three subclasses, according to their most prominent bioactivity: antitumour, antimicrobial, and protection of the cardiovascular system. Whenever possible the activity of the ruthenoflavonoids is compared with that of commercial drugs for a critical assessment of the feasibility of using them in future clinical applications.
A Transformative Gold Patterning through Selective Laser Refining of Cyanide
Authors: Lim Jaemook , Ham Jimin , Lee Woohyun , Hwang Eunseung , Lee Won , Hong Sukjoon
Published: July 2021

Gold is an essential noble metal for electronics, and its application area is increasing continuously through the introduction of gold nanoparticle ink that enables rapid prototyping and direct writing of gold electrodes on versatile substrates at a low temperature. However, the synthesis of gold nanoparticles has certain limitations involving high cost, long synthesis time, large waste of material, and frequent use of chemicals. In this study, we suggest simultaneous laser refining of gold cyanide and selective fabrication of gold electrodes directly on the substrate without a separate synthesis step. Gold cyanide is commonly the first product of gold from the primitive ore, and the gold can be extracted directly from the rapid photothermal decomposition of gold cyanide by the laser. It was confirmed that laser-induced thermocapillary force plays an important role in creating the continuous gold patterns by aligning the refined gold. The resultant gold electrodes exhibited a low resistivity analogous to the conventional direct writing method using nanoparticles, and the facile repair process of a damaged electrode was demonstrated as the proof-of-concept. The proposed transformative approach for gold patterning, distinguished from the previous top-down and bottom-up approaches, has the potential to replace the well-known techniques and provide a new branch of electrode manufacturing scheme.
Dietary Tryptophan Supplementation Alters Fat and Glucose Metabolism in a Low-Birthweight Piglet Model
Authors: Goodarzi Parniyan , Habibi Mohammad , Roberts Kennedy , Sutton Julia , Shili Cedrick Ndhumba , Lin Dingbo , Pezeshki Adel
Published: July 2021

Low birthweight (LBW) is associated with metabolic complications, such as glucose and lipid metabolism disturbances in early life. The objective of this study was to assess: (1) the effect of dietary tryptophan (Trp) on glucose and fat metabolism in an LBW piglet model, and (2) the role peripheral 5-hydroxytryptamine type 3 (5HT3) receptors in regulating the feeding behavior in LBW piglets fed with Trp-supplemented diets. Seven-day-old piglets were assigned to 4 treatments: normal birthweight-0%Trp (NBW-T0), LBW-0%Trp (LBW-T0), LBW-0.4%Trp (LBW-T0.4), and LBW-0.8%Trp (LBW-T0.8) for 3 weeks. Compared to LBW-T0, the blood glucose was decreased in LBW-T0.8 at 60 min following the meal test, and the triglycerides were lower in LBW-T0.4 and LBW-T0.8. Relative to LBW-T0, LBW-T0.8 had a lower transcript and protein abundance of hepatic glucose transporter-2, a higher mRNA abundance of glucokinase, and a lower transcript of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase. LBW-T0.4 tended to have a lower protein abundance of sodium-glucose co-transporter 1 in the jejunum. In comparison with LBW-T0, LBW-T0.4 and LBW-T0.8 had a lower transcript of hepatic acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and LBW-T0.4 had a higher transcript of 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase. Blocking 5-HT3 receptors with ondansetron reduced the feed intake in all groups, with a transient effect on LBW-T0, but more persistent effect on LBW-T0.8 and NBW-T0. In conclusion, Trp supplementation reduced the hepatic lipogenesis and gluconeogenesis, but increased the glycolysis in LBW piglets. Peripheral serotonin is likely involved in the regulation of feeding behavior, particularly in LBW piglets fed diets supplemented with a higher dose of Trp.
Current Practices and Challenges in the Diagnosis and Management of PKU in Latin America: A Multicenter Survey
Authors: Poloni Soraia , dos Santos Bruna Bento , Chiesa Ana , Specola Norma , Pereyra Marcela , Saborío-Rocafort Manuel , Salazar María Florencia , Leal-Witt María Jesús , Castro Gabriela , Peñaloza Felipe , Wong Sunling Palma , Porras Ramsés Badilla , Paranza Lourdes Ortiz , Sanabria Marta Cristina , Amieva Marcela Vela , Morales Marco , Naranjo Amanda Rocío Caro , Mahfoud Antonieta , Colmenares Ana Rosa , Lemes Aida , Sotillo-Lindo José Fernando , Perez Ceila , Rey Laritza Martínez , Torriente Georgina María Zayas , Refosco Lilia Farret , Schwartz Ida Vanessa Doederlein , Cornejo Veronica
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to describe the current practices in the diagnosis and dietary management of phenylketonuria (PKU) in Latin America, as well as the main barriers to treatment. We developed a 44-item online survey aimed at health professionals. After a pilot test, the final version was sent to 25 practitioners working with inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) in 14 countries. Our results include 22 centers in 13 countries. Most countries (12/13) screened newborns for PKU. Phenylalanine (Phe) targets at different ages were very heterogeneous among centers, with greater consistency at the 0–1 year age group (14/22 sought 120–240 µmol/L) and the lowest at >12 years (10 targets reported). Most countries had only unflavored powdered amino acid substitutes (10/13) and did not have low-protein foods (8/13). Only 3/13 countries had regional databases of the Phe content of foods, and only 4/22 centers had nutrient analysis software. The perceived obstacles to treatment were: low purchasing power (62%), limited/insufficient availability of low-protein foods (60%), poor adherence, and lack of technical resources to manage the diet (50% each). We observed a heterogeneous scenario in the dietary management of PKU, and most countries experienced a lack of dietary resources for both patients and health professionals.
A National Study of Nutrition and Nutritional Status of the Adult Polish Population in the Years 2017–2020 before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic—Design and Methods
Authors: Traczyk Iwona , Raciborski Filip , Kucharska Alicja , Sińska Beata I. , Milewska Magdalena , Samoliński Bolesław , Szostak-Węgierek Dorota
Published: July 2021

The paper presents the designs and methods of a cross-sectional study of two groups of randomly selected Polish inhabitants aged 19–64, and 65 and over, carried out as part of the National Health Program. The aim of the study was to illustrate the current health situation of the respondents in terms of nutrition and physical activity level. The quantitative and qualitative methods were used. The Computer Assisted Personal Interview technique was used. The dietary research was carried out through repeated interviews about the frequency of food consumption, and about what food had been consumed in the previous 24 h. In addition to the questionnaire studies, anthropometric data, blood pressure and the level of physical activity were measured. During the COVID-19 pandemic, some methods were modified according to hygiene rules. The Computer Assisted Telephone Interview technique was used to collect the data, and the anthropometric data were obtained via measurements made by the respondents themselves based on detailed instructions. The results will be used to present representative data for the Polish population, describing a wide range of eating behaviours and other lifestyle elements, food and nutrition knowledge, dietary supplement use, the occurrence of diet-related diseases, nutritional status and, in the seniors group, the risk of sarcopenia.
Association of Daily Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour with Protein Intake Patterns in Older Adults: A Multi-Study Analysis across Five Countries
Authors: Lourida Ilianna , Boer Jolanda M. A. , Teh Ruth , Kerse Ngaire , Mendonça Nuno , Rolleston Anna , Sette Stefania , Tapanainen Heli , Turrini Aida , Virtanen Suvi M. , Visser Marjolein , Jagger Carol
Published: July 2021

Physical activity and protein intake are associated with ageing-related outcomes, including loss of muscle strength and functional decline, so may contribute to strategies to improve healthy ageing. We investigated the cross-sectional associations between physical activity or sedentary behaviour and protein intake patterns in community-dwelling older adults across five countries. Self-reported physical activity and dietary intake data were obtained from two cohort studies (Newcastle 85+ Study, UK; LiLACS, New Zealand Māori and Non-Māori) and three national food consumption surveys (DNFCS, The Netherlands; FINDIET, Finland; INRAN-SCAI, Italy). Associations between physical activity and total protein intake, number of eating occasions providing protein, number of meals with specified protein thresholds, and protein intake distribution over the day (calculated as a coefficient of variance) were assessed by regression and repeated measures ANOVA models adjusting for covariates. Greater physical activity was associated with higher total protein intake and more eating occasions containing protein, although associations were mostly explained by higher energy intake. Comparable associations were observed for sedentary behaviour in older adults in Italy. Evidence for older people with higher physical activity or less sedentary behaviour achieving more meals with specified protein levels was mixed across the five countries. A skewed protein distribution was observed, with most protein consumed at midday and evening meals without significant differences between physical activity or sedentary behaviour levels. Findings from this multi-study analysis indicate there is little evidence that total protein and protein intake patterns, irrespective of energy intake, differ by physical activity or sedentary behaviour levels in older adults.
Effect of Wholegrain Flour Particle Size in Bread on Glycaemic and Insulinaemic Response among People with Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomised Crossover Trial
Authors: Mete Evelyn , Haszard Jillian , Perry Tracy , Oey Indrawati , Mann Jim , Te Morenga Lisa
Published: July 2021

Wholegrain flour produced by roller-milling is predominantly comprised of fine particles, while stoneground flour tends to have a comparatively smaller proportion of fine particles. Differences in flour particle size distribution can affect postprandial glycaemia in people with type 2 diabetes and postprandial insulinaemia in people with and without type 2 diabetes. No prior studies have investigated the effect of wholegrain flour particle size distribution on glycaemic or insulinaemic response among people with impaired glucose tolerance or risk factors for type 2 diabetes. In a randomised crossover study, we tested the 180-min acute glycaemic and insulinaemic responses to three wholegrain breads differing in flour particle size and milling method: (1) fine roller-milled flour, (2) fine stoneground flour, and (3) coarse stoneground flour. Participants (n = 23) were males and females with risk factors for type 2 diabetes (age 55–75 y, BMI >28 kg/m2, completing less than 150 min moderate to vigorous intensity activity per week). Each test meal provided 50 g available carbohydrate, and test foods were matched for energy and macronutrients. There was no significant difference in blood glucose iAUC (incremental area under the curve) between the coarse stoneground flour bread and the fine stoneground flour bread (mean difference −20.8 (95% CI: −51.5, 10.0) mmol·min/L) and between the coarse stoneground flour bread and the fine roller-milled flour bread (mean difference −23.3 (95% CI: −57.6, 11.0) mmol·min/L). The mean difference in insulin iAUC for fine stoneground flour bread compared with the fine roller-milled flour bread was −6.9% (95% CI: −20.5%, 9.2%) and compared with the coarse stoneground flour bread was 9.9% (95% CI: −2.6%, 23.9%). There was no evidence of an effect of flour particle size on postprandial glycaemia and insulinaemia among older people with risk factors for type 2 diabetes, most of whom were normoglycaemic.
The Status of the Coral Reefs of the Jaffna Peninsula (Northern Sri Lanka), with 36 Coral Species New to Sri Lanka Confirmed by DNA Bar-Coding
Authors: Arulananthan Ashani , Herath Venura , Kuganathan Sivashanthini , Upasanta Anura , Harishchandra Akila
Published: July 2021

Sri Lanka, an island nation located off the southeast coast of the Indian sub-continent, has an unappreciated diversity of corals and other reef organisms. In particular, knowledge of the status of coral reefs in its northern region has been limited due to 30 years of civil war. From March 2017 to August 2018, we carried out baseline surveys at selected sites on the northern coastline of the Jaffna Peninsula and around the four largest islands in Palk Bay. The mean percentage cover of live coral was 49 ± 7.25% along the northern coast and 27 ± 5.3% on the islands. Bleaching events and intense fishing activities have most likely resulted in the occurrence of dead corals at most sites (coral mortality index > 0.33). However, all sites were characterised by high values of diversity (H’ ≥ 2.3) and evenness (E ≥ 0.8). The diversity index increased significantly with increasing coral cover on the northern coast but showed the opposite trend on the island sites. One hundred and thirteen species of scleractinian corals, representing 16 families and 39 genera, were recorded, as well as seven soft coral genera. Thirty-six of the scleractinian coral species were identified for the first time on the island of Sri Lanka. DNA barcoding using the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (COI) was employed to secure genetic confirmation of a few difficult-to-distinguish new records: Acropora aspera, Acropora digitifera, Acropora gemmifera, Montipora flabellata, and Echinopora gemmacea.
Evaluation of the Biocompatibility and Osteoconduction of the Carbon Nanotube, Chitosan and Hydroxyapatite Nanocomposite with or without Mesenchymal Stem Cells as a Scaffold for Bone Regeneration in Rats
Authors: Marcondes Geissiane M. , Paretsis Nicole F. , Fülber Joice , Navas-Suárez Pedro Enrique , Mori Claudia M. C. , Plepis Ana Maria G. , Martins Virginia C. A. , Fantoni Denise T. , Zoppa André L. V.
Published: July 2021

Background: Bone substitutes have been developed to assist bone regeneration in orthopedic surgeries. Mesenchymal stem cells can be added to these biomaterials to enhance bone regeneration. This study aimed to evaluate the biocompatibility and osteoconduction of a carbon nanotube, chitosan, and hydroxyapatite nanocomposite (CNCHN) that had either been enriched or not enriched with sheep bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in rats. Methods: A total of sixty rats were divided into groups, and an implant with or without BM-MSCs was performed subcutaneously in 20 animals (euthanized after 7 and 30 days), comparing them to 10 control animals, and in the calvaria of 20 animals (euthanized after 20 and 60 days), comparing to with 10 control animals. Subcutaneous and calvaria histologies were performed after euthanasia. Results: The subcutaneous tissue showed that CNCHN did not prompt an exacerbated inflammatory response or signs of necrosis. The histomorphological analysis by the calvaria score of the rats showed that the control group had lower scores at 20 and 60 days for bone neoformation, relative to the CNCHN groups, which showed no significant statistical differences, suggesting that the nanocomposite assisted in the regenerative process of defects in the calvaria, but with no repair potentiation when using BM-MSCs. Conclusion: CNCHN has biocompatibility and osteoconductive potential, showing promising results in bone defects.
Quercetin and/or Ascorbic Acid Modulatory Effect on Phenobarbital-Induced Sleeping Mice Possibly through GABAA and GABAB Receptor Interaction Pathway
Authors: Hossain Rajib , Al-Khafaji Khattab , Khan Rasel Ahmed , Sarkar Chandan , Islam Md. Shahazul , Dey Dipta , Jain Divya , Faria Farhana , Akbor Rukaya , Atolani Olubunmi , Oliveira Sónia M. R. , Siyadatpanah Abolghasem , Pereira Maria de Lourdes , Islam Muhammad Torequl
Published: July 2021

Depressive disorder is a recurrent illness that affects large numbers of the general population worldwide. In recent years, the goal of depression treatment has moved from symptomatic response to that of full remission. However, treatment-resistant depression is a major challenge in the treatment of depression or depression-related disorders. Consensus opinion, therefore, suggests that effective combined aggressive initial treatment is the most appropriate strategy. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of quercetin (QUR) and/or ascorbic acid (AA) on Phenobarbital-induced sleeping mice. QUR (50 mg/kg) and/or AA (25 mg/kg) with or without intraperitoneally pre-treated with GABA receptor agonist (diazepam: 2 mg/kg, i.p.) or antagonist (Flumazenil: 2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) to underscore the effects, as well as the possible involvement of the GABA receptor in the modulatory action of QUR and AA in sleeping mice. Additionally, an in silico study was undertaken to predict the involvement of GABA receptors in the sleep mechanism. Findings suggest that the pretreatment of QUR and AA modulated the onset and duration of action of the standard drugs in experimental animals. The acute administration of QUR and/or AA significantly (p < 0.05) reversed the DZP-mediated onset of action and slightly reversed the duration of sleep time in comparison to the vehicle (control) group. A further combination of QUR or AA with the FLU resulted in an enhancement of the onset of action while reducing the duration of action, suggesting a FLU-like effect on the test animals. In in silico studies, AA and QUR showed good to moderate binding affinities with GABAA and GABAB receptors. Both QUR and AA produced a stimulatory-like effect on mice, possibly through the GABAA and GABAB receptor interaction pathways. Further studies are necessary to verify this activity and clarify the exact mechanism of action(s) involved.
From Bush Medicine to Modern Phytopharmaceutical: A Bibliographic Review of Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum spp.)
Authors: Brendler Thomas
Published: July 2021

Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum spp., Pedaliaceae) is one of the best-documented phytomedicines. Its mode of action is largely elucidated, and its efficacy and excellent safety profile have been demonstrated in a long list of clinical investigations. The author conducted a bibliographic review which not only included peer-reviewed papers published in scientific journals but also a vast amount of grey literature, such as theses and reports initiated by governmental as well as non-governmental organizations, thus allowing for a more holistic presentation of the available evidence. Close to 700 sources published over the course of two centuries were identified, confirmed, and cataloged. The purpose of the review is three-fold: to trace the historical milestones in devil’s claw becoming a modern herbal medicine, to point out gaps in the seemingly all-encompassing body of research, and to provide the reader with a reliable and comprehensive bibliography. The review covers aspects of ethnobotany, taxonomy, history of product development and commercialization, chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, as well as clinical efficacy and safety. It is concluded that three areas stand out in need of further investigation. The taxonomical assessment of the genus is outdated and lacking. A revision is needed to account for intra- and inter-specific, geographical, and chemo-taxonomical variation, including variation in composition. Further research is needed to conclusively elucidate the active compound(s). Confounded by early substitution, intermixture, and blending, it has yet to be demonstrated beyond a reasonable doubt that both (or all) Harpagophytum spp. are equally (and interchangeably) safe and efficacious in clinical practice.
Development of an Immunochromatographic Strip Using Conjugated Gold Nanoparticles for the Rapid Detection of Klebsiella pneumoniae Causing Neonatal Sepsis
Authors: Elhosseiny Noha M. , Samir Tamer M. , Ali Aliaa A. , El-Kholy Amani A. , Attia Ahmed S.
Published: July 2021

Neonatal sepsis is a leading cause of death among newborns and infants, especially in the developing world. The problem is compounded by the delays in pinpointing the causative agent of the infection. This is reflected in increasing mortality associated with these cases and the spread of multi-drug-resistant bacteria. In this work, we deployed bioinformatics and proteomics analyses to determine a promising target that could be used for the identification of a major neonatal sepsis causative agent, Klebsiella pneumoniae. A 19 amino acid peptide from a hypothetical outer membrane was found to be very specific to the species, well conserved among its strains, surface exposed, and expressed in conditions simulating infection. Antibodies against the selected peptide were conjugated to gold nanoparticles and incorporated into an immunochromatographic strip. The developed strip was able to detect as low as 105 CFU/mL of K. pneumoniae. Regarding specificity, it showed negative results with both Escherichia coli and Enterobacter cloacae. More importantly, in a pilot study using neonatal sepsis cases blood specimens, the developed strip selectively gave positive results within 20 min with those infected with K. pneumoniae without prior sample processing. However, it gave negative results in cases infected with other bacterial species.
Occlusion Culling for Wide-Angle Computer-Generated Holograms Using Phase Added Stereogram Technique
Authors: Martinez-Carranza Juan , Kozacki Tomasz , Kukołowicz Rafał , Chlipala Maksymilian , Idicula Moncy Sajeev
Published: July 2021

A computer-generated hologram (CGH) allows synthetizing view of 3D scene of real or virtual objects. Additionally, CGH with wide-angle view offers the possibility of having a 3D experience for large objects. An important feature to consider in the calculation of CGHs is occlusion between surfaces because it provides correct perception of encoded 3D scenes. Although there is a vast family of occlusion culling algorithms, none of these, at the best of our knowledge, consider occlusion when calculating CGHs with wide-angle view. For that reason, in this work we propose an occlusion culling algorithm for wide-angle CGHs that uses the Fourier-type phase added stereogram (PAS). It is shown that segmentation properties of the PAS can be used for setting efficient conditions for occlusion culling of hidden areas. The method is efficient because it enables processing of dense cloud of points. The investigated case has 24 million of point sources. Moreover, quality of the occluded wide-angle CGHs is tested by two propagation methods. The first propagation technique quantifies quality of point reproduction of calculated CGH, while the second method enables the quality assessment of the occlusion culling operation over an object of complex shape. Finally, the applicability of proposed occlusion PAS algorithm is tested by synthetizing wide-angle CGHs that are numerically and optically reconstructed.
The Endophytic Pseudomonas sp. S57 for Plant-Growth Promotion and the Biocontrol of Phytopathogenic Fungi and Nematodes
Authors: Muñoz Torres Patricio , Cárdenas Steffany , Arismendi Macuer Mabel , Huanacuni Nelly , Huanca-Mamani Wilson , Cifuentes Denise , Sepúlveda Chavera Germán F.
Published: July 2021

Oregano from Socoroma (Atacama Desert) is characterized by its unique organoleptic properties and distinctive flavor and it is produced using ancestral pesticide-free agricultural practices performed by the Aymara communities. The cultivation in this zone is carried out under extreme conditions where the standard production of different crops is limited by several environmental factors, including aridity, high concentration of salts, and boron among others. However, oregano plants are associated with microorganisms that mitigate biotic and abiotic stresses present in this site. In this work, the S57 strain (member of the Pseudomonas genus that is closely related to Pseudomonas lini) was isolated from roots of oregano plants, which are grown in soils with high content of non-sodium salts and aluminum. This bacterium stimulates the growth of Micro-Tom tomato plants irrigated with saline-boric water. Moreover, it controls the growth of phytopathogenic fungi Fusarium oxysporum and Botrytis cinerea and the nematode Meloidogyne incognita under saline-boric conditions. Together with the high levels of bacterial biomass (~47 g/L), these results allow the establishment of the bases for developing a potential new agricultural bioproduct useful for arid and semiarid environments where commercial biological products show erratic behavior.