bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dithiophosphate-Induced Redox Conversions of Reduced and Oxidized Glutathione
Authors: Ishkaeva Rezeda A. , Nizamov Ilyas S. , Blokhin Dmitriy S. , Urakova Elizaveta A. , Klochkov Vladimir V. , Nizamov Ilnar D. , Gareev Bulat I. , Salakhieva Diana V. , Abdullin Timur I.
Published: May 2021

Phosphorus species are potent modulators of physicochemical and bioactive properties of peptide compounds. O,O-diorganyl dithiophoshoric acids (DTP) form bioactive salts with nitrogen-containing biomolecules; however, their potential as a peptide modifier is poorly known. We synthesized amphiphilic ammonium salts of O,O-dimenthyl DTP with glutathione, a vital tripeptide with antioxidant, protective and regulatory functions. DTP moiety imparted radical scavenging activity to oxidized glutathione (GSSG), modulated the activity of reduced glutathione (GSH) and profoundly improved adsorption and electrooxidation of both glutathione salts on graphene oxide modified electrode. According to NMR spectroscopy and GC–MS, the dithiophosphates persisted against immediate dissociation in an aqueous solution accompanied by hydrolysis of DTP moiety into phosphoric acid, menthol and hydrogen sulfide as well as in situ thiol-disulfide conversions in peptide moieties due to the oxidation of GSH and reduction of GSSG. The thiol content available in dissolved GSH dithiophosphate was more stable during air oxidation compared with free GSH. GSH and the dithiophosphates, unlike DTP, caused a thiol-dependent reduction of MTS tetrazolium salt. The results for the first time suggest O,O-dimenthyl DTP as a redox modifier for glutathione, which releases hydrogen sulfide and induces biorelevant redox conversions of thiol/disulfide groups.
Prospective Outcomes of Injury Study 10 Years on (POIS-10): An Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Derrett Sarah , Wyeth Emma H. , Richardson Amy , Davie Gabrielle , Samaranayaka Ari , Lilley Rebbecca , Harcombe Helen
Published: May 2021

Injury is a leading cause of disability and is costly. This prospective cohort study extension aims to improve disability, health, and wellbeing outcomes for injured New Zealanders, including for Māori. We will identify predictors and modifiable risk factors of long-term outcomes (positive and negative), and develop an Injury Early Care Tool (INJECT) to inform the implementation of effective interventions to improve outcomes. In the Prospective Outcomes of Injury Study (POIS), 2856 people participated following an injury (occurring between 2007 and 2009) registered with New Zealand’s no-fault accident compensation scheme (ACC). POIS-10 will invite 2121 people (including 358 Māori) who completed a 24-month POIS interview and agreed to follow-up, anticipating 75% participation (n = 1591). Interviews will collect sociodemographic characteristics, life events, comorbidities, and new injuries since participants’ 24-month interview, as well as key disability, health, and wellbeing outcomes 12 years post-injury. Injury-related data will be collected from ACC and hospitalisation records 12 years post-injury. Regression models for the main outcomes will examine the direct effects of predictor variables after adjustment for a wide range of confounders. POIS-10 is enhanced by our partnership with ACC, and expert advisors and will benefit injured people, including Māori, through increased understanding of mechanisms and interventions to improve long-term post-injury outcomes.
Potential of Gum Arabic Functionalized Iron Hydroxide Nanoparticles Embedded Cellulose Paper for Packaging of Paneer
Authors: Chawla Prince , Najda Agnieszka , Bains Aarti , Nurzyńska-Wierdak Renata , Kaushik Ravinder , Tosif Mansuri M.
Published: May 2021

Recently, the interest of scientists has turned towards eco-friendly metal nanoparticles due to their distinctive physicochemical properties that have been used in several biochemical and food applications, including drug and bioactive component delivery, sensing of food pathogenic bacteria, imaging techniques, and theranostics. Therefore, this study aimed to fabricate gum arabic stabilized iron hydroxide nanoparticles (IHNPs) using the co-precipitation process and to develop nanoparticles decorated antimicrobial cellulose paper. The agglomeration of IHNPs is a major concern, therefore, the varied concentration (0.25–2.0%) of gum arabic was used to functionalize and stabilize the nanoparticles, and based on UV-visible spectroscopy and particle size analysis, 1% gum arabic concentration was screened out. Scanning electron microscopy displayed polygonal disc shapes of IHNPs that had sides of approximately equal lengths. Energy dispersive spectroscopy was used to determine the purity of the IHNPs and results illustrated the elemental iron peak at 0.8 keV and 6.34 keV. For thermal stability, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was employed, and the glass transition temperature was observed at 138.50 °C with 138.31 °C onset and 147.14 °C endset temperature, respectively. Functionalized IHNPs showed a significantly (p < 0.05) higher zone of inhibition against S. aureus (29.63 mm) than that of E. coli and were found to be non-toxic to Caco-2 cells during cell viability assay. Time-kill kinetics showed that cellulose paper embedded with nanoparticles possessed excellent antibacterial activity against S. aureus. To explore the food application of developed cellulose paper, citric acid coagulated dairy product (Paneer), similar to cottage cheese was formulated, and it was evaluated for its microbial shelf life. The unwrapped sample showed higher microbial load during the fourth day of the storage. However, both wrapped samples were acceptable till the 10th of storage.
Nanostructured Molybdenum Oxides from Aluminium-Based Intermetallic Compound: Synthesis and Application in Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Raj Deepti , Scaglione Federico , Fiore Gianluca , Celegato Federica , Rizzi Paola
Published: May 2021

Characterized by a large surface area to volume ratio, nanostructured metal oxides possess unique chemical and physical properties with applications in electronics, catalysis, sensors, etc. In this study, Mo3Al8, an intermetallic compound, has been used as a precursor to obtain nanostructured molybdenum oxides. It was prepared into ribbons by arc-melting and melt-spinning techniques. Single and double-step free corrosion of the as-quenched material have been studied in 1 M KOH, 1 M HF and 1.25 M FeCl3 at room temperature. In both cases, nanostructured molybdenum oxides were obtained on a surface layer a few microns thick. Two of the as-prepared samples were tested for their electrocatalytic capability for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in 0.5 M H2SO4 giving low onset potential (−50 mV, −45 mV), small Tafel slopes (92 mV dec−1, 9 mV dec−1) and high exchange current densities (0.08 mA cm−2, 0.35 mA cm−2 respectively). The proposed nanostructured molybdenum oxides are cost-effective and sustainable due to the cheap and abundant starting material used and the simple synthetic route, paving the way for their possible application as HER electrocatalysts.
Antibacterial Porous Coaxial Drug-Carrying Nanofibers for Sustained Drug-Releasing Applications
Authors: Chen Xin , Li Honghai , Lu Weipeng , Guo Yanchuan
Published: May 2021

The phenomenon of drug burst release is the main problem in the field of drug delivery systems, as it means that a good therapeutic effect cannot be acheived. Nanofibers developed by electrospinning technology have large specific surface areas, high porosity, and easily controlled morphology. They are being considered as potential carriers for sustained drug release. In this paper, we obtained polycaprolactone (PCL)/polylactic acid (PLA) core-shell porous drug-carrying nanofibers by using coaxial electrospinning technology and the nonsolvent-induced phase separation method. Roxithromycin (ROX), a kind of antibacterial agent, was encapsulated in the core layer. The morphology, composition, and thermal properties of the resultant nanofibers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry analysis (TGA). Besides this, the in vitro drug release profile was investigated; it showed that the release rate of the prepared coaxial porous nanofibers with two different pore sizes was 30.10 ± 3.51% and 35.04 ± 1.98% in the first 30 min, and became 92.66 ± 3.13% and 88.94 ± 1.58% after 14 days. Compared with the coaxial nonporous nanofibers and nanofibers prepared by uniaxial electrospinning with or without pores, the prepared coaxial porous nanofibers revealed that the burst release was mitigated and the dissolution rate of the hydrophobic drugs was increased. The further antimicrobial activity demonstrated that the inhibition zone diameter of the coaxial nanofibers with two different pore sizes was 1.70 ± 0.10 cm and 1.73 ± 0.23 cm, exhibiting a good antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus aureus. Therefore, the prepared nanofibers with the coaxial porous structures could serve as promising drug delivery systems.
Biochemical and Metabolomic Changes after Electromagnetic Hyperthermia Exposure to Treat Colorectal Cancer Liver Implants in Rats
Authors: Herrero de la Parte Borja , Irazola Mireia , Pérez-Muñoz Jorge , Rodrigo Irati , Iturrizaga Correcher Sira , Mar Medina Carmen , Castro Kepa , Etxebarria Nestor , Plazaola Fernando , García Jose Ángel , García-Alonso Ignacio , Echevarría-Uraga Jose Javier
Published: May 2021

Background: Hyperthermia (HT) therapy still remains relatively unknown, in terms of both its biological and therapeutic effects. This work aims to analyze the effects of exposure to HT, such as that required in anti-tumor magnetic hyperthermia therapies, using metabolomic and serum parameters routinely analyzed in clinical practice. Methods: WAG/RigHsd rats were assigned to the different experimental groups needed to emulate all of the procedures involved in the treatment of liver metastases by HT. Twelve hours or ten days after the electromagnetic HT (606 kHz and 14 kA/m during 21 min), blood samples were retrieved and liver samples were obtained. 1H-nuclear-magnetic-resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR) was used to search for possible diagnostic biomarkers of HT effects on the rat liver tissue. All of the data obtained from the hydrophilic fraction of the tissues were analyzed and modeled using chemometric tools. Results: Hepatic enzyme levels were significantly increased in animals that underwent hyperthermia after 12 h, but 10 d later they could not be detected anymore. The metabolomic profile (main metabolic differences were found in phosphatidylcholine, taurine, glucose, lactate and pyruvate, among others) also showed that the therapy significantly altered metabolism in the liver within 12 h (with two different patterns); however, those changes reverted to a control-profile pattern after 10 days. Conclusions: Magnetic hyperthermia could be considered as a safe therapy to treat liver metastases, since it does not induce irreversible physiological changes after application.
Fabrication of Pressure Sensor Using Electrospinning Method for Robotic Tactile Sensing Application
Authors: Ramadoss Tamil Selvan , Ishii Yuya , Chinnappan Amutha , Ang Marcelo H. , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: May 2021

Tactile sensors are widely used by the robotics industries over decades to measure force or pressure produced by external stimuli. Piezoelectric-based pressure sensors have intensively been investigated as promising candidates for tactile sensing applications. In contrast, piezoelectric-based pressure sensors are expensive due to their high cost of manufacturing and expensive base materials. Recently, an effect similar to the piezoelectric effect has been identified in non-piezoelectric polymers such as poly(d,l-lactic acid (PDLLA), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and polystyrene. Hence investigations were conducted on alternative materials to find their suitability. In this article, we used inexpensive atactic polystyrene (aPS) as the base polymer and fabricated functional fibers using an electrospinning method. Fiber morphologies were studied using a field-emission scanning electron microscope and proposed a unique pressure sensor fabrication method. A fabricated pressure sensor was subjected to different pressures and corresponding electrical and mechanical characteristics were analyzed. An open circuit voltage of 3.1 V was generated at 19.9 kPa applied pressure, followed by an integral output charge (ΔQ), which was measured to calculate the average apparent piezoelectric constant dapp and was found to be 12.9 ± 1.8 pC N−1. A fabricated pressure sensor was attached to a commercially available robotic arm to mimic the tactile sensing.
Towards Higher Electric Conductivity and Wider Phase Stability Range via Nanostructured Glass-Ceramics Processing
Authors: Pietrzak Tomasz K. , Wasiucionek Marek , Garbarczyk Jerzy E.
Published: May 2021

This review article presents recent studies on nanostructured glass-ceramic materials with substantially improved electrical (ionic or electronic) conductivity or with an extended temperature stability range of highly conducting high-temperature crystalline phases. Such materials were synthesized by the thermal nanocrystallization of selected electrically conducting oxide glasses. Various nanostructured systems have been described, including glass-ceramics based on ion conductive glasses (silver iodate and bismuth oxide ones) and electronic conductive glasses (vanadate-phosphate and olivine-like ones). Most systems under consideration have been studied with the practical aim of using them as electrode or solid electrolyte materials for rechargeable Li-ion, Na-ion, all-solid batteries, or solid oxide fuel cells. It has been shown that the conductivity enhancement of glass-ceramics is closely correlated with their dual microstructure, consisting of nanocrystallites (5–100 nm) confined in the glassy matrix. The disordered interfacial regions in those materials form “easy conduction” paths. It has also been shown that the glassy matrices may be a suitable environment for phases, which in bulk form are stable at high temperatures, and may exist when confined in nanograins embedded in the glassy matrix even at room temperature. Many complementary experimental techniques probing the electrical conductivity, long- and short-range structure, microstructure at the nanometer scale, or thermal transitions have been used to characterize the glass-ceramic systems under consideration. Their results have helped to explain the correlations between the microstructure and the properties of these systems.
Natural Molecules in the Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): An Analytical Review
Authors: Iervolino Matteo , Lepore Elisa , Forte Gianpiero , Laganà Antonio Simone , Buzzaccarini Giovanni , Unfer Vittorio
Published: May 2021

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogenous disorder characterized by chronic ovulation dysfunction and hyperandrogenism. It is considered the most common endocrinological disorder, affecting up to 25% of women of reproductive age, and associated with long-term metabolic abnormalities predisposing to cardiovascular risk, such as insulin resistance (IR), dyslipidemia, endothelial dysfunction, and systemic inflammation. PCOS is also characterized by elevated serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), causing a condition of hyperandrogenism and a consequent altered ratio between LH and the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Over the years, several different approaches have been proposed to alleviate PCOS symptoms. Supplementation with natural molecules such as inositols, resveratrol, flavonoids and flavones, vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids may contribute to overcoming PCOS pathological features, including the presence of immature oocyte, IR, hyperandrogenism, oxidative stress and inflammation. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge about the efficacy of natural molecule supplementation in the management of PCOS.
Pregnancy after Bariatric Surgery: A Nested Case-Control Study of Risk Factors for Small for Gestational Age Babies in AURORA
Authors: Akhter Zainab , Heslehurst Nicola , Ceulemans Dries , Rankin Judith , Ackroyd Roger , Devlieger Roland
Published: May 2021

Bariatric surgery prior to pregnancy is a significant risk factor for small for gestational age (SGA) babies. This case-control study investigated differences between mothers delivering an SGA baby following bariatric surgery, compared to those delivering an appropriate for gestational age (AGA) baby. Out of 129 babies born to mothers in the AURORA cohort study, 25 were SGA (<10th percentile) and 97 were AGA (10th–90th percentile). Higher gestational weight gain (GWG) was significantly associated with decreased odds of SGA (aOR per kg 0.92, 95% CI 0.85–0.99). According to the Institute of Medicine GWG guidelines, 44% of SGA mothers had ‘inadequate’ GWG compared to 17% of AGA mothers. Nearly half of the mothers had ‘excessive’ GWG yet still gave birth to an SGA or AGA baby. Mothers of SGA babies lost more weight following bariatric surgery (45.6 ± 14.4 kg vs. 39.0 ± 17.9 kg). Women who reported receiving nutritional advice following bariatric surgery were significantly less likely to have an SGA baby (aOR 0.15, 95% CI 0.0.4–0.55). Women with a history of bariatric surgery should be provided with specialized support before and during pregnancy to encourage adequate nutritional intake and weight gain to support healthy fetal growth.
Descriptive Comparison of ELISAs for the Detection of Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies in Animals: A Systematic Review
Authors: Liyanage K. L. D. Tharaka D. , Wiethoelter Anke , Hufschmid Jasmin , Jabbar Abdul
Published: May 2021

Toxoplasma gondii is the zoonotic parasite responsible for toxoplasmosis in warm-blooded vertebrates. This systematic review compares and evaluates the available knowledge on enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), their components, and performance in detecting T. gondii antibodies in animals. Four databases were searched for published scientific studies on T. gondii and ELISA, and 57 articles were included. Overall, indirect (95%) and in-house (67%) ELISAs were the most used types of test among the studies examined, but the ‘ID Screen® Toxoplasmosis Indirect Multi-species’ was common among commercially available tests. Varying diagnostic performance (sensitivity and specificity) and Kappa agreements were observed depending on the type of sample (serum, meat juice, milk), antigen (native, recombinant, chimeric) and antibody-binding reagents used. Combinations of recombinant and chimeric antigens resulted in better performance than native or single recombinant antigens. Protein A/G appeared to be useful in detecting IgG antibodies in a wide range of animal species due to its non-species-specific binding. One study reported cross-reactivity, with Hammondia hammondi and Eimeria spp. This is the first systematic review to descriptively compare ELISAs for the detection of T. gondii antibodies across different animal species.
Sphagneticola Trilobata (L.) Pruski (Asteraceae) Methanol Extract Induces Apoptosis in Leukemia Cells through Suppression of BCR/ABL
Authors: Chi Hoang Thanh , Thuong Nguyen Thi Lien , Ly Bui Thi Kim
Published: May 2021

We will study the effects of the methanol extract of Sphagneticola trilobata (L.) Pruski (Asteraceae) (MeST) on the growth of leukemia cells that may contain the BCR/ABL gene. This study also clarifies the mechanism of this effect on these cells. For this purpose, the cells harboring wild-type BCR/ABL, imatinib-resistant BCR/ABL (K562 and TCCYT315I), or Ba/F3 cells transfected with wild-type or mutant BCR/ABL genes were used. The results showed that MeST effectively inhibited the viability of leukemia cells in both a dose- and time-dependent manner. The effect of MeST seems to be more sensitive in the cells that carry imatinib-resistant BCR/ABL (especially the T315I BCR/ABL mutation) than those with wild-type BCR/ABL. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that the death caused by MeST is apoptosis and the treatment with MeST could suppress the expression of BCR/ABL, subsequently altering the downstream cascade of BCR/ABL such as AKT and MAPK signaling. In conclusion, MeST has been able to suppress the growth of leukemia cells harboring BCR/ABL. The mechanism of the anti-leukemic effect of MeST on cells harboring imatinib-resistant BCR/ABL mutations could be due to the disruption of the BCR/ABL oncoprotein signaling cascade.
The Impacts of Woolly Cupgrass on the Antioxidative System and Growth of a Maize Hybrid
Authors: Szilágyi Arnold , Radócz László , Hájos Mária , Juhász Csaba , Kovács Béla , Kovács Gabriella , Budayné Bódi Erika , Radványi Csaba , Moloi Makoena , Szőke Lóránt
Published: May 2021

Woolly cupgrass (Eriochloa villosa (Thunb.) Kunth) is a new invasive weed in Hungary. This study was conducted to elucidate the effects of this weed on the biochemistry and growth of maize (Zea mays L. cv. Armagnac) under greenhouse conditions. Activities of the antioxidative enzymes (ascorbate peroxidase (APX), guaiacol peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD)), the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), and protein were measured in the shoots and roots, whereas the content of the photosynthetic pigments was measured only in the shoots. The measured growth parameters included plant height, root length, root volume, root and shoot dry weight, and stem diameter. Results showed the allelopathic effects of woolly cupgrass on maize, with significant decreases in plant height, root length, root volume, and root dry weight. Woolly cupgrass infestation (WCI) induced significantly higher activities of APX and SOD in the shoots, whereas POD was only induced in the roots. The contents of chlorophyll-a, total chlorophyll (including relative chlorophyll), carotenoids, and root protein were substantially reduced by WCI, except for the leaf chlorophyll-b. The results suggest that high APX and SOD activities in the shoots could be involved in stabilizing the leaf chlorophyll-b, chlorophyll a/b, shoot protein, and shoot dry weight because all of these parameters were not inhibited when these two enzymes were induced. In contrast, high activity of POD in the roots is not effective in counteracting allelopathy. Therefore, it would be worthwhile to further investigate if an increase in the activities of APX and SOD in the shoots of WCI maize is responsible for stabilizing leaf chlorophyll-b, shoot protein, and shoot dry weight, which could contribute to improved maize yield under WCI.
Structural and Biochemical Aspects Related to Resistance and Susceptibility of Rubber Tree Clones to Anthracnose
Authors: Magalhaes Izabela Ponso , Marques João Paulo Rodrigues , Gomes Marcela Eloi , Scaloppi Junior Erivaldo José , Fischer Ivan Herman , Furtado Edson Luiz , Pinheiro Henrique Rodney Lucio , Veréchia Rodrigues Flavia Thomaz , Firmino Ana Carolina
Published: May 2021

The aim of the present study was to evaluate structural and biochemical aspects related to the interaction of resistant (RRIM 937, IAC 502 and 507) and susceptible (RRIM 600) rubber tree clones with C. tamarillo. For such analysis, ultrathin sections of the leaf limb were embedded in historesin and differently stained to verify structural alterations and presence of starch grains, arginine, lipids, tannins and lignins. The total proteins and activity of the enzymes peroxidase and (PAL) were quantified. Stomatal density was also analyzed under a scanning electron microscope. Data indicated alterations in the cell content of resistant clones inoculated with the pathogen, as well as greater lignin and lipid accumulation in these samples. For tannins, there was no difference between inoculated and non-inoculated clones. Arginine was found at greater quantities in IAC 502 and 507. Starch grains were not detected in any of the analyzed samples. Protein level and stomatal density were lower in resistant clones. Peroxidase activity was more expressive in resistant clones. PAL activity, there was no significant difference between clones. The lignin and lipids, total protein, peroxidase activity and stomatal density may be related to the resistance of rubber tree clones to anthracnose.
Impacts of Land-Use Changes on Vegetation and Ecosystem Functioning: Old-Field Secondary Succession
Authors: Pérez-Hernández Javier , Gavilán Rosario G.
Published: May 2021

The study of ecological succession to determine how plant communities re-assemble after a natural or anthropogenic disturbance has always been an important topic in ecology. The understanding of these processes forms part of the new theories of community assembly and species coexistence, and is attracting attention in a context of expanding human impacts. Specifically, new successional studies provide answers to different mechanisms of community assemblage, and aim to define the importance of deterministic or stochastic processes in the succession dynamic. Biotic limits, which depend directly on biodiversity (i.e., species competition), and abiotic filtering, which depends on the environment, become particularly important when they are exceeded, making the succession process more complicated to reach the previous disturbance stage. Plant functional traits (PFTs) are used in secondary succession studies to establish differences between abandonment stages or to compare types of vegetation or flora, and are more closely related to the functioning of plant communities. Dispersal limitation is a PFT considered an important process from a stochastic point of view because it is related to the establishing of plants. Related to it the soil seed bank plays an important role in secondary succession because it is essential for ecosystem functioning. Soil compounds and microbial community are important variables to take into account when studying any succession stage. Chronosequence is the best way to study the whole process at different time scales. Finally, our objective in this review is to show how past studies and new insights are being incorporated into the basis of classic succession. To further explore this subject we have chosen old-field recovery as an example of how a number of different plant communities, including annual and perennial grasslands and shrublands, play an important role in secondary succession.
Pan-Genome miRNomics in Brachypodium
Authors: Muslu Tugdem , Biyiklioglu-Kaya Sezgi , Akpinar Bala Ani , Yuce Meral , Budak Hikmet
Published: May 2021

Pan-genomes are efficient tools for the identification of conserved and varying genomic sequences within lineages of a species. Investigating genetic variations might lead to the discovery of genes present in a subset of lineages, which might contribute into beneficial agronomic traits such as stress resistance or yield. The content of varying genomic regions in the pan-genome could include protein-coding genes as well as microRNA(miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs playing key roles in the regulation of gene expression. In this study, we performed in silico miRNA identification from the genomic sequences of 54 lineages of Brachypodium distachyon, aiming to explore varying miRNA contents and their functional interactions. A total of 115 miRNA families were identified in 54 lineages, 56 of which were found to be present in all lineages. The miRNA families were classified based on their conservation among lineages and potential mRNA targets were identified. Obtaining information about regulatory mechanisms stemming from these miRNAs offers strong potential to provide a better insight into the complex traits that were potentially present in some lineages. Future work could lead us to introduce these traits to different lineages or other economically important plant species in order to promote their survival in different environmental conditions.
Origanum syriacum L. (Za’atar), from Raw to Go: A Review
Authors: Alwafa Reem Abu , Mudalal Samer , Mauriello Gianluigi
Published: May 2021

The interest in za’atar has increased in recent years due to its economic, cultural, and functional importance. The traditional za’atar mix made from dried Origanum syriacum is now a demanded product nationally and internationally. Air-drying at low temperatures can preserve za’atar quality traits better than other techniques such as oven-drying. The Palestinian za’atar market has the potential to develop and increase its value. However, it is facing many challenges. Another valuable product of za’atar is essential oil. Za’atar essential oil quantity and quality are affected by many factors including geographical location, cultivation, harvesting season, soil, extraction method, temperature, and others. These factors interact with za’atar and with each other; therefore, some factors are more effective than others and further research is needed to determine the optimum condition for producing and obtaining za’atar essential oil. Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities are the main functionalities of za’atar essential oil that are behind its medicinal importance. One hundred and twenty-one compounds have been identified in za’atar essential oil. The most common compounds are thymol, γ–terpinene, carvacrol, and α-pinene. The variation in the composition among za’atar essential oil samples results from the different conditions of the studies during za’atar growth as well as essential oil extraction.
A Review on the Hydrodynamics of Taylor Flow in Microchannels: Experimental and Computational Studies
Authors: Etminan Amin , Muzychka Yuri S. , Pope Kevin
Published: May 2021

Taylor flow is a strategy-aimed flow to transfer conventional single-phase into a more efficient two-phase flow resulting in an enhanced momentum/heat/mass transfer rate, as well as a multitude of other advantages. To date, Taylor flow has focused on the processes involving gas–liquid and liquid–liquid two-phase systems in microchannels over a wide range of applications in biomedical, pharmaceutical, industrial, and commercial sectors. Appropriately micro-structured design is, therefore, a key consideration for equipment dealing with transport phenomena. This review paper highlights the hydrodynamic aspects of gas–liquid and liquid–liquid two-phase flows in microchannels. It covers state-of-the-art experimental and numerical methods in the literature for analyzing and simulating slug flows in circular and non-circular microchannels. The review’s main objective is to identify the considerable opportunity for further development of microflows and provide suggestions for researchers in the field. Available correlations proposed for the transition of flow patterns are presented. A review of the literature of flow regime, slug length, and pressure drop is also carried out.
Study on the Preparation of High-Temperature Resistant and Electrically Insulating h-BN Coating in Ethanol Solution by Electrophoretic Deposition
Authors: Jia Kun , Meng Xu , Wang Wei
Published: May 2021

A hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) coating of micron thickness is deposited directly on 316L stainless steel (SS316L) cathode through efficient, adjustable electrophoretic deposition (EPD) in a suspension system containing surfactant and ethanol. It is based on the mixing of h-BN with polyethyleneimine (PEI) resulting in positively charged ceramic powder making cathodic electrophoretic deposition possible. The thickness of the resulting h-BN coatings deposited on SS316L could be controlled by varying the time and the voltage of electrophoretic deposition. The deposition kinetics and mechanism have been discussed. After soaking in Al(H2PO4)3 solution and high-temperature annealing, the h-BN coatings exhibited good adhesive strength. Furthermore, a novel method has been used for the evaluation of the adhesive strength to explore the appropriate experimental conditions. X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were employed to characterize the h-BN coatings. The h-BN coatings are applied for the DC breakdown performance test and exhibit remarkable breakdown voltage and breakdown strength.
The Gospel According to Disney+’s “The Mandalorian”
Authors: van Wingerden Ruben
Published: May 2021

The Mandalorian is a very popular science-fiction show (two seasons, 2019–2020) set in the famous Star Wars Universe. Studies have shown that myth and religious thought played a crucial role in the creation of the Star Wars Universe. This article continues that tradition, albeit from a particular perspective that highlights religious language: by viewing The Mandalorian through a New Testament lens, it is argued that while many elements of popular culture reference Biblical or mythological sources, The Mandalorian’s use of these referents illustrates the way in which ancient religious and New Testament literature are still very much a shared phenomenon. Both The Mandalorian and the New Testament share certain timeless topoi: a mysterious character with extraordinary abilities, a connection to life-giving powers of the universe that give extraordinary abilities, choosing a certain way of life and the costs thereof, and also themes such as “debt”, “redemption”, and “beliefs” and how these are challenged. By using these themes, The Mandalorian presents itself as a modern myth.
Mechanisms and Evolution of Geoeffective Large-Scale Plasma Jets in the Magnetosheath
Authors: Dmitriev Alexei V. , Lalchand Bhavana , Ghosh Sayantan
Published: May 2021

Geoeffective magnetosheath plasma jets (those that interact with the magnetopause) are an important area of research and technology, since they affect the “space-weather” around the Earth. We identified such large-scale magnetosheath plasma jets with a duration of >30 s using plasma and magnetic data acquired from the Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) multi-spacecraft experiment during the years 2007 to 2009. We present a statistical survey of 554 of such geoeffective jets and elaborate on four mechanisms for the generation of these jets as the upstream solar wind structures of tangential discontinuities (TDs), rotational discontinuities (RDs), the quasi-radial interplanetary magnetic field (rIMF) and the collapsing foreshock (CFS) interrupting the rIMF intervals. We found that 69% of the jets are generated due to the interaction between interplanetary discontinuities (TD: 24%, RD: 25%, CFS: 20%) with the bow shock. Slow and weak jets due to the rIMF contributed to 31% of these jets. The CFS and rIMF were found to be similar in their characteristics. TDs and RDs contributed to most of the fast and powerful jets, with large spatial scales, which might be attributed to transient effects in the travelling foreshock.
Towards an Even More Spatially Diversified City? New Metropolitan Population Trends in the Post-Economic Crisis Period
Authors: Gil-Alonso Fernando , López-Villanueva Cristina , Bayona-i-Carrasco Jordi , Pujadas Isabel
Published: May 2021

After the deep economic crisis that began in 2008, in 2014, Spain started to show signs of recovery, entering the so-called “post-crisis” period. Though it has not yet reached the entire population, economic improvement has had a positive impact on the real estate market, economic activity, and employment. Residential mobility has also increased, but flows have become more unstable and complex. The direction of these flows, the reasons for moving, and the ages and socioeconomic categories of migrants have diversified. These complex “new mobility” patterns are reconfiguring the spatial distribution of the population in Spanish urban areas. On the basis of Continuous Register (Padrón Continuo) microdata, this paper primarily aims to study population changes in the 69 Spanish functional urban areas (FUAs) defined by the National Institute of Statistics (INE)/Eurostat, focusing on their population growth or decline in their centers and peripheries during the crisis (2011–2015) and post-crisis (2015–2019) phases. Then, the paper analyzes the five major Spanish metropolises (Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Bilbao) in greater depth. The findings confirm the hypothesis that, during the post-crisis period, the population growth of cores and rings and thus the spatial distribution of urban inhabitants have been changing, resulting in the growing demographic heterogeneity of Spanish urban areas that are diversifying both internally and compared to each other.
Strategies for Vaccine Prioritization and Mass Dispensing
Authors: Lee Eva K. , Li Zhuonan L. , Liu Yifan K. , LeDuc James
Published: May 2021

We propose a system that helps decision makers during a pandemic find, in real time, the mass vaccination strategies that best utilize limited medical resources to achieve fast containments and population protection. Our general-purpose framework integrates into a single computational platform a multi-purpose compartmental disease propagation model, a human behavior network, a resource logistics model, and a stochastic queueing model for vaccination operations. We apply the modeling framework to the current COVID-19 pandemic and derive an optimal trigger for switching from a prioritized vaccination strategy to a non-prioritized strategy so as to minimize the overall attack rate and mortality rate. When vaccine supply is limited, such a mixed vaccination strategy is broadly effective. Our analysis suggests that delays in vaccine supply and inefficiencies in vaccination delivery can substantially impede the containment effort. Employing an optimal mixed strategy can significantly reduce the attack and mortality rates. The more infectious the virus, the earlier it helps to open the vaccine to the public. As vaccine efficacy decreases, the attack and mortality rates rapidly increase by multiples; this highlights the importance of early vaccination to reduce spreading as quickly as possible to lower the chances for further mutations to evolve and to reduce the excessive healthcare burden. To maximize the protective effect of available vaccines, of equal importance are determining the optimal mixed strategy and implementing effective on-the-ground dispensing. The optimal mixed strategy is quite robust against variations in model parameters and can be implemented readily in practice. Studies with our holistic modeling framework strongly support the urgent need for early vaccination in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. Our framework permits rapid custom modeling in practice. Additionally, it is generalizable for different types of infectious disease outbreaks, whereby a user may determine for a given type the effects of different interventions including the optimal switch trigger.
The HIV-1 Antisense Gene ASP: The New Kid on the Block
Authors: Gholizadeh Zahra , Iqbal Mohd. Shameel , Li Rui , Romerio Fabio
Published: May 2021

Viruses have developed incredibly creative ways of making a virtue out of necessity, including taking full advantage of their small genomes. Indeed, viruses often encode multiple proteins within the same genomic region by using two or more reading frames in both orientations through a process called overprinting. Complex retroviruses provide compelling examples of that. The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) genome expresses sixteen proteins from nine genes that are encoded in the three positive-sense reading frames. In addition, the genome of some HIV-1 strains contains a tenth gene in one of the negative-sense reading frames. The so-called Antisense Protein (ASP) gene overlaps the HIV-1 Rev Response Element (RRE) and the envelope glycoprotein gene, and encodes a highly hydrophobic protein of ~190 amino acids. Despite being identified over thirty years ago, relatively few studies have investigated the role that ASP may play in the virus lifecycle, and its expression in vivo is still questioned. Here we review the current knowledge about ASP, and we discuss some of the many unanswered questions.
The Complementary Role of the WTO in the Enhancement of the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting Project
Authors: Zhao Lijun , Karaivanova Angelina , Zhang Pengfei
Published: May 2021

The current rules on international tax do not function properly due to the gaps which allow for tax manipulation. Whereas most tax agreements largely contribute to the prevention of double taxation, they do not effectively approach double non-taxation matters arising from tax competition based on the agreements’ bilateral nature. In order to tackle this issue, the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting project was introduced. Developed under the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development framework, the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting project deals with tax avoidance practices that use mismatches and gaps in tax rules. Nevertheless, the success of this new soft law initiative requires a forum that can promote and enforce its recommendations. The structural nature of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has led to the consideration of the World Trade Organization to be this forum by many. However, the World Trade Organization covered agreements are drafted in a way that includes some of the tax competition matters but not others, including traditional tax havens. This paper aims to bridge the gaps in the area of the international tax regime. By examining the international trade and international tax regimes, it is shown that there is space for variations in the World Trade Organization broadly drafted agreements for such matters to find a resolution. It is argued that the World Trade Organization can play a complementary role in the enforcement of the new international tax rules.
DESENVOLVIMENTO DE FITOCOSMÉTICO ANTIOXIDANTE COM EXTRATO DE LARANJA (Citrus sinensis)
Authors: MELLO GNANN GABRIELA WOORD , DE ALMEIDA CRISTIANE , PAGANOTTE DANIELE MICHELIN , ISAAC VERA , CHIARI-ANDRÉO BRUNA GALDORFINI , MARTINI-MARCIANO PAULA CRESSONI
Published: May 2021

Orange (Citrus sinensis) is one of the most cultivated fruits in Brazil. It is known that it contains a relevant amount of vitamin C and, consequently, many properties, such as antioxidant, vasoprotective and hypocholesterolemic. The increase in the life expectancy stimulates the use of products able to retard the effects of time specially in the skin and, in this context, the use of plants and, particularly, of their extracts, came to revolutionize the modern cosmetology. Substances able to inhibit the action of free radicals, such as the vitamin C, can be used in anti-aging cosmetics helping in the prevention or deceleration of the damage produced on the skin. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the viability in use orange as a source of antioxidants to the cosmetic industry, mainly for the prepare of antianging formulations. Thus, three orange extracts using different extractive processes were prepared followed by the evaluation of their antioxidant activity. A phytocosmetic was developed with the orange extract that exhibited the higher antioxidant activity, and it was characterized in relation to its organoleptical characteristics, pH, viscosisity and rheology. Also, the microbiological aspects of the phytocosmetic was assessed. The extract prepared by the maceration of the dried orange, using 70% ethanol as solvent, showed significant antioxidant activity, thus, it was used in the phytocosmetic’s development. The pH, viscosity, rheology and organoleptic characteristics determined is suitable to the use in the skin. The microbiological evaluation demonstrated the suitability of the formulation, according to the recommendations of the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia (2019). In conclusion, were demonstrated the applicability of orange extracts in antioxidant phytocosmetics, which could help in the prevention of premature skin aging using a widely available fruit in Brazil.
ABORDAGEM INTERDISCIPLINAR DAS PARASITOSES INTESTINAIS EMPRÉ-ESCOLARES RESIDENTES NO OESTE DA BAHIA, BRASIL
Authors: RODRIGUES DAYANE OTERO , DA SILVA MÔNICA NASCIMENTO , CERQUEIRA BÁRBARA MILENA DOS SANTOS
Published: May 2021

As parasitoses intestinais se configuram como um grave problema de saúde pública, sendo frequentes em populações que se encontram em condições de vulnerabilidade como crianças em idade escolar e pré-escolar, principalmente em áreas carentes de saneamento básico. A presença de parasitas intestinais pode gerar quadros desde assintomáticos a diarreicos com presença de cólicas, colites e desnutrição. Apesar de sua magnitude, são doenças negligenciadas pelo poder público, sendo que a realização de estudos locais é de grande relevância por fornecerem subsídios para as tomadas de decisões públicas. Objetivos: Analisar a prevalência e a etiologia das parasitoses intestinais, relacionando com os fatores de risco socioambientais, econômicos e com o estado nutricional de crianças frequentadoras de uma creche pública localizada no Oeste da Bahia. Metodologia: Procedeu-se a um estudo de corte transversal envolvendo 29 crianças de 0 a 4 anos de idade, com realização do exame coproparasitológico em laboratório vinculado à Secretaria Municipal de Saúde; parceria firmada previamente. Foi realizada uma entrevista semi-estruturada aos familiares das crianças abordando os fatores de risco socioambientais e econômicos, as características demográficas e os hábitos de saúde das crianças, e para avaliação nutricional foram realizadas as medidas antropométricas das crianças. Seguiu-se à tabulação e análise dos resultados, sendo que o estudo se iniciou após aprovação pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia. Resultados e Conclusão: Verificou-se uma prevalência significante de parasitoses intestinais (37,9%), sendo que Giardia lamblia (41,2%), Entamoeba coli (23,5%) e Entamoeba histolytica (17,6%) foram os parasitos mais frequentemente encontrados.  A ausência de saneamento básico (72,2%); sem fornecimento de água potável e sem coleta e tratamento de esgoto; e a presença de hábitos como não realizar visitas pediátricas (58,3%) e andar descalços (61,1%), assim como o predomínio (83,3%) de uma renda domiciliar inferior a um salário mínimo foram os fatores de risco significantes encontrados associados ao desenvolvimento de parasitoses intestinais entre as crianças. Com relação ao estado nutricional, a maioria das crianças parasitadas (72,7%) apresentou-se eutróficas, 18,2% delas apresentaram sobrepeso, sendo que encontramos 6,2% das crianças não parasitadas com baixo peso. A taxa significante de prevalência das parasitoses intestinais, a alta frequência de giardíase; parasita patogênico e de veiculação hídrica; e a análise dos fatores de risco refletiram a necessidade da implantação de políticas públicas que visem a melhoria das condições de saúde, econômicas e de infraestrutura, alicerçadas no saneamento básico, no fortalecimento da economia e da educação em saúde na região.
Peacemaking as an important part of Russian foreign policy
Authors: Ivanov S. M.
Published: May 2021

The article examines such an important aspect of Russian foreign policy as peacekeeping. Russia has been participating in many activities to maintain and strengthen peace in the post-Soviet space and in other regions of our planet. This activity is successfully carried out in the formats of the UN, CIS, CSTO, OSCE, other international organizations and on a bilateral basis. The author notes that the role of peacekeeping is growing immeasurably in the context of attempts to revive the atmosphere of the Cold War, the ongoing arms race in the world, the build-up of nuclear missile potentials of a number of countries, and the intensifi cation of the forces of international terrorism represented by radical Islamist groups.