bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence to Underpin Vitamin A Requirements and Upper Limits in Children Aged 0 to 48 Months: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hooper Lee , Esio-Bassey Chizoba , Brainard Julii , Fynn Judith , Jennings Amy , Jones Natalia , Tailor Bhavesh V. , Abdelhamid Asmaa , Coe Calvin , Esgunoglu Latife , Fallon Ciara , Gyamfi Ernestina , Hill Claire , Howard Wilsher Stephanie , Narayanan Nithin , Oladosu Titilopemi , Parkinson Ellice , Prentice Emma , Qurashi Meysoon , Read Luke , Getley Harriet , Song Fujian , Welch Ailsa A. , Aggett Peter , Lietz Georg
Published: January 2022

Vitamin A deficiency is a major health risk for infants and children in low- and middle-income countries. This scoping review identified, quantified, and mapped research for use in updating nutrient requirements and upper limits for vitamin A in children aged 0 to 48 months, using health-based or modelling-based approaches. Structured searches were run on Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central, from inception to 19 March 2021. Titles and abstracts were assessed independently in duplicate, as were 20% of full texts. Included studies were tabulated by question, methodology and date, with the most relevant data extracted and assessed for risk of bias. We found that the most recent health-based systematic reviews and trials assessed the effects of supplementation, though some addressed the effects of staple food fortification, complementary foods, biofortified maize or cassava, and fortified drinks, on health outcomes. Recent isotopic tracer studies and modelling approaches may help quantify the effects of bio-fortification, fortification, and food-based approaches for increasing vitamin A depots. A systematic review and several trials identified adverse events associated with higher vitamin A intakes, which should be useful for setting upper limits. We have generated and provide a database of relevant research. Full systematic reviews, based on this scoping review, are needed to answer specific questions to set vitamin A requirements and upper limits.
Comparison of Three Dietary Assessment Methods to Estimate Meat Intake as Part of a Meat Reduction Intervention among Adults in the UK
Authors: Stewart Cristina , Bianchi Filippo , Frie Kerstin , Jebb Susan A.
Published: January 2022

Food diaries are used to estimate meat intake at an individual level but it is unclear whether simpler methods would provide similar results. This study assessed the agreement between 7 day food diaries in which composite dishes were disaggregated to assess meat content (reference method), and two simpler methods: (1) frequency meal counts from 7 day food diaries; and (2) 7 day dietary recalls, each using standard estimated portion sizes. We compared data from a randomized controlled trial testing a meat reduction intervention. We used Bland-Altman plots to assess the level of agreement between methods at baseline and linear mixed-effects models to compare estimates of intervention effectiveness. At baseline, participants consumed 132 g/d (±75) of total meat; frequency meal counts and dietary recalls underestimated this by an average of 30 and 34 g/day, respectively. This was partially explained by an underestimation of the assumed portion size. The two simpler methods also underestimated the effect of the intervention, relative to control, though the significant effect of the intervention was unchanged. Simpler methods underestimated absolute meat intake but may be suitable for use in studies to measure the change in meat intake in individuals over time.
Gut Microbiome Alterations following Postnatal Iron Supplementation Depend on Iron Form and Persist into Adulthood
Authors: McMillen Shasta , Thomas Sydney , Liang Emily , Nonnecke Eric , Slupsky Carolyn , Lönnerdal Bo
Published: January 2022

The gut microbiota is implicated in the adverse developmental outcomes of postnatal iron supplementation. To generate hypotheses on how changes to the gut microbiota by iron adversely affect development, and to determine whether the form of iron influences microbiota outcomes, we characterized gut microbiome and metabolome changes in Sprague-Dawley rat pups given oral supplements of ferrous sulfate (FS), ferrous bis-glycinate chelate (FC), or vehicle control (CON) on postnatal day (PD) 2–14. Iron supplementation reduced microbiome alpha-diversity (p < 0.0001) and altered short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and trimethylamine (TMA) in a form-dependent manner. To investigate the long-term effects of iron provision in early life, an additional cohort was supplemented with FS, FC, or CON until PD 21 and then weaned onto standard chow. At ~8 weeks of age, young adult (YA) rats that received FS exhibited more diverse microbiomes compared to CON (p < 0.05), whereas FC microbiomes were less diverse (p < 0.05). Iron provision resulted in 10,000-fold reduced abundance of Lactobacilli in pre-weanling and YA animals provided iron in early life (p < 0.0001). Our results suggest that in pre-weanling rats, supplemental iron form can generate differential effects on the gut microbiota and microbial metabolism that persist into adulthood.
Beneficial Effects on Abdominal Bloating with an Innovative Food-Grade Formulation of Curcuma longa and Boswellia serrata Extracts in Subjects with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Small Bowel Dysbiosis
Authors: Giacosa Attilio , Riva Antonella , Petrangolini Giovanna , Allegrini Pietro , Fazia Teresa , Bernardinelli Luisa , Peroni Gabriella , Rondanelli Mariangela
Published: January 2022

Bloating is a symptom frequently reported by subjects with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and small bowel dysbiosis, and Low FODMAP’s diet (LFD) has been used to treat them. Extracts of Curcumalonga and Boswelliaserrata share anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that could be useful in the management of these clinical conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of curcumin and boswellia extracts (as Curcumin Boswellia Phytosome, CBP) and LFD on the relief of abdominal bloating in IBS subjects with small bowel dysbiosis, in comparison to LFD alone, in a 30-day supplementation, randomized trial. IBS participants were randomized to either the intervention (500 mg bid of CBP and LFD) or control arm (LFD). Small bowel dysbiosis has been defined by an increase of urinary indican with normal urinary skatole. A total of 67 subjects were recruited. The intervention group (33 subjects) showed a significant decrease (p < 0.0001) of bloating, abdominal pain, and indican values at the end of the study, when compared to the control group (34 subjects). Moreover, the subjects of the intervention group showed a significantly better (p < 0.0001) global assessment of efficacy (GAE) as compared to controls. In conclusion, in subjects with IBS and small bowel dysbiosis, abdominal bloating can be successfully reduced with a supplementation with CBP and LFD.
Co-toxicity of Endotoxin and Indoxyl Sulfate, Gut-Derived Bacterial Metabolites, to Vascular Endothelial Cells in Coronary Arterial Disease Accompanied by Gut Dysbiosis
Authors: Choroszy Marcin , Sobieszczańska Beata , Litwinowicz Kamil , Łaczmański Łukasz , Chmielarz Mateusz , Walczuk Urszula , Roleder Tomasz , Radziejewska Jadwiga , Wawrzyńska Magdalena
Published: January 2022

Gut dysbiosis, alongside a high-fat diet and cigarette smoking, is considered one of the factors promoting coronary arterial disease (CAD) development. The present study aimed to research whether gut dysbiosis can increase bacterial metabolites concentration in the blood of CAD patients and what impact these metabolites can exert on endothelial cells. The gut microbiomes of 15 age-matched CAD patients and healthy controls were analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing analysis. The in vitro impact of LPS and indoxyl sulfate at concentrations present in patients’ sera on endothelial cells was investigated. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed gut dysbiosis in CAD patients, further confirmed by elevated LPS and indoxyl sulfate levels in patients’ sera. CAD was associated with depletion of Bacteroidetes and Alistipes. LPS and indoxyl sulfate demonstrated co-toxicity to endothelial cells inducing reactive oxygen species, E-selectin, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) production. Moreover, both of these metabolites promoted thrombogenicity of endothelial cells confirmed by monocyte adherence. The co-toxicity of LPS and indoxyl sulfate was associated with harmful effects on endothelial cells, strongly suggesting that gut dysbiosis-associated increased intestinal permeability can initiate or promote endothelial inflammation and atherosclerosis progression.
Soy Food Intake Associated with Obesity and Hypertension in Children and Adolescents in Guangzhou, Southern China
Authors: Wang Xiaotong , He Tongtong , Xu Suhua , Li Hailin , Wu Miao , Lin Zongyu , Huang Fenglian , Zhu Yanna
Published: January 2022

The associations between soy food intake and cardio-metabolic risk factors in children remain unclear due to limited evidence. We aim to explore soy food intake and its association with the risks of obesity and hypertension in Chinese children and adolescents. A total of 10,536 children and adolescents aged 7–18 years (5125 boys and 5411 girls) were enrolled in a cross-sectional study in Guangzhou City, southern China. Data on demographic characteristics and dietary consumption were collected using self-reported questionnaires, and anthropometric characteristics were measured. Obesity, abdominal obesity, and hypertension were defined using Chinese criteria for children and adolescents. A multiple logistic regression model was applied to estimate the association between soy food intake and obesity and hypertension. Roughly 39.5% of the participants consumed soy food more than three times per week. The mean amounts of liquid and solid soy food intake were 0.35 ± 0.54 cups/day and 0.46 ± 0.63 servings/day, respectively. The adjusted odds ratios (OR) of hypertension among those with high liquid soy food intake and a high frequency of all soy food intake (more than three times/week) were 0.79 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.67–0.94), and 0.83 (95% CI, 0.70–0.97) compared to those with no intake. Additionally, the adjusted OR of obesity among those with high solid soy food intake and a high frequency of all soy food intake were 1.34 (95% CI, 1.09–1.63) and 1.30 (95% CI, 1.07–1.58), respectively. In conclusion, 39.5% of southern Chinese children and adolescents had high soy food intake (more than three times/week), which was significantly associated with a lower prevalence of hypertension and a greater prevalence of obesity.
Strengths-Based Nursing to Combat Common Infectious Diseases in Indigenous Australians
Authors: Cheluvappa Rajkumar , Selvendran Selwyn
Published: January 2022

(1) Problem: The increasing incidence and prevalence of infectious diseases in Indigenous Australians (Aboriginal groups and Torres Strait Islanders) are concerning. Indigenous Australians experience the burden of infectious diseases disproportionately when compared to non-Indigenous Australians. (2) Aim: Our report aims to describe how to apply Strengths-Based Nursing (SBN) to ameliorate the impact of the most common infectious diseases in Indigenous Australians. Specifically, we aim to describe how nurses can use SBN to partner with Indigenous Australian communities to remediate, control, and mollify the impact of the most common infectious diseases encountered by them using their limited resources. (3) Methods: Meticulous PubMed, Google Scholar, and web searches were conducted pertaining to Strengths-Based Nursing and common infectious diseases in Indigenous Australians. (4) Findings: The two groups of infectious diseases considered are sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and infectious skin diseases (including parasitic infestations). The prevalence of these infectious diseases in Indigenous Australians is deliberated on, with data when possible, or known trends and impacts. Finally, existing, evidence-based, prudent, and possible SBN approaches are discussed towards tackling these infectious diseases judiciously with available local resources, in conjunction with the support of impacted people, their families, and their communities. (5) Discussion and Conclusion: The SBN approach is a relatively new perspective/approach to clinical and nursing care. In contradistinction to the commonly utilised medical model, SBN pits strengths against deficits, available resources against professional judgment, solutions against unavailable items, and collaborations against hierarchy. In light of the current situation/data, several SBN approaches to combat STIs and skin infections in Indigenous Australians were identified and discussed for the first time in the “Results” section of this paper.
Bezafibrate Exerts Neuroprotective Effects in a Rat Model of Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Lin Li-Fan , Jhao Yun-Ting , Chiu Chuang-Hsin , Sun Lu-Han , Chou Ta-Kai , Shiue Chyng-Yann , Cheng Cheng-Yi , Ma Kuo-Hsing
Published: January 2022

Bezafibrate, a pan-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonist, reportedly attenuated tau pathology in a transgenic mouse model of primary tauopathy. Since tau pathology is a neuropathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), bezafibrate may be a potential drug for the treatment of AD. However, no study has investigated its effects in AD models. Thus, we aimed to evaluate whether bezafibrate has neuroprotective effects in a sporadic AD model induced by streptozotocin (STZ) intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection. Rats were administered STZ-ICV (3 mg/kg) followed by bezafibrate (50 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal) for 4 weeks. Behavior tests and positron emission tomography (PET) were performed to evaluate longitudinal changes in cognitive function, tau pathology, and cerebral glucose metabolism. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to assess neuronal survival and microglial accumulation. STZ-ICV administration induced significant cognitive impairment and substantial neuronal loss, tau pathology, glucose hypometabolism, and microgliosis in the cortex and hippocampus, while bezafibrate effectively attenuated these abnormalities. This study demonstrated that bezafibrate has long-lasting neuroprotective effects in a sporadic AD model. Our data indicate that the neuroprotective effects of bezafibrate might be associated with its ability to ameliorate tau pathology, brain glucose hypometabolism, and neuroinflammation. These findings suggest that bezafibrate is a potential multi-target drug candidate for the treatment of AD.
Comparative Evaluation of Radiochemical and Biological Properties of 131I- and [99mTc]Tc(CO)3-Labeled RGD Analogues Planned to Interact with the αvβ3 Integrin Expressed in Glioblastoma
Authors: Sobral Danielle V. , Fuscaldi Leonardo L. , Durante Ana Claudia R. , Mendonça Fernanda F. , de Oliveira Larissa R. , Miranda Ana Cláudia C. , Mejia Jorge , Montor Wagner R. , de Barboza Marycel F. , Malavolta Luciana
Published: January 2022

Radiolabeled peptides with high specificity for overexpressed receptors in tumor cells hold great promise for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. In this work, we aimed at comparing the radiolabeling efficiency and biological properties of two different RGD analogs: GRGDYV and GRGDHV, labeled with iodine-131 (131I) and technetium-99m-tricarbonyl complex [99mTc][Tc(CO)3]+. Additionally, we evaluated their interaction with the αvβ3 integrin molecule, overexpressed in a wide variety of tumors, including glioblastoma. Both peptides were chemically synthesized, purified and radiolabeled with 131I and [99mTc][Tc(CO)3]+ using the chloramine-T and tricarbonyl methodologies, respectively. The stability, binding to serum proteins and partition coefficient were evaluated for both radioconjugates. In addition, the binding and internalization of radiopeptides to rat C6 glioblastoma cells and rat brain homogenates from normal animals and a glioblastoma-induced model were assessed. Finally, ex vivo biodistribution studies were carried out. Radiochemical yields between 95–98% were reached for both peptides under optimized radiolabeling conditions. Both peptides were stable for up to 24 h in saline solution and in human serum. In addition, the radiopeptides have hydrophilic characteristics and a percentage of binding to serum proteins around 35% and 50% for the [131I]I-GRGDYV and [99mTc]Tc(CO)3-GRGDHV fragments, respectively. Radiopeptides showed the capacity of binding and internalization both in cell culture (C6) and rat brain homogenates. Biodistribution studies corroborated the results obtained with brain homogenates and confirmed the different binding characteristics due to the exchange of radionuclides and the presence of the tricarbonyl complex. Thereby, the results showed that both radiopeptides might be considered for future clinical applications.
Liposomal 5-Fluorouracil Polymer Complexes Facilitate Tumor-Specific Delivery: Pharmaco-Distribution Kinetics Using Microdialysis
Authors: Wang Wen , Joyce Paul , Bremmell Kristen , Milne Robert , Prestidge Clive A.
Published: January 2022

Liposomes are widely used as carriers for anticancer drugs due to their ability to prolong the retention of encapsulated drugs in blood plasma while directing their distribution increasingly into tumor tissue. We report on the development of stealth liposomal formulations for the common chemotherapy drug 5-fluorouracil, where pharmacokinetic studies were undertaken using a microdialysis probe to specifically quantify drug accumulation in tumor, which was contrasted to drug exposure to healthy tissue. Greater accumulation of the drug into the tumor than into healthy subcutaneous tissue was observed for neutral and cationic liposomal 5-fluorouracil polymer complexes in comparison to the conventional delivery by an injected solution. Increased drug accumulation in tumor also correlated to reduced tumor growth. This research has generated new mechanistic insight into liposomal-specific delivery to tumors with potential to improve the efficacy and reduce the toxicity of chemotherapy.
An Overview of Nanotechnologies for Drug Delivery to the Brain
Authors: Ayub Ahsan , Wettig Shawn
Published: January 2022

Drug delivery to the brain has been one of the toughest challenges researchers have faced to develop effective treatments for brain diseases. Owing to the blood–brain barrier (BBB), only a small portion of administered drug can reach the brain. A consequence of that is the need to administer a higher dose of the drug, which, expectedly, leads to a variety of unwanted side effects. Research in a variety of different fields has been underway for the past couple of decades to address this very serious and frequently lethal problem. One area of research that has produced optimistic results in recent years is nanomedicine. Nanomedicine is the science birthed by fusing the fields of nanotechnology, chemistry and medicine into one. Many different types of nanomedicine-based drug-delivery systems are currently being studied for the sole purpose of improved drug delivery to the brain. This review puts together and briefly summarizes some of the major breakthroughs in this crusade. Inorganic nanoparticle-based drug-delivery systems, such as gold nanoparticles and magnetic nanoparticles, are discussed, as well as some organic nanoparticulate systems. Amongst the organic drug-delivery nanosystems, polymeric micelles and dendrimers are discussed briefly and solid polymeric nanoparticles are explored in detail.
A Point Mutation in Phytochromobilin synthase Alters the Circadian Clock and Photoperiodic Flowering of Medicago truncatula
Authors: Perez-Santangelo Soledad , Napier Nathanael , Robson Fran , Weller James L. , Bond Donna M. , Macknight Richard C.
Published: January 2022

Plants use seasonal cues to initiate flowering at an appropriate time of year to ensure optimal reproductive success. The circadian clock integrates these daily and seasonal cues with internal cues to initiate flowering. The molecular pathways that control the sensitivity of flowering to photoperiods (daylengths) are well described in the model plant Arabidopsis. However, much less is known for crop species, such as legumes. Here, we performed a flowering time screen of a TILLING population of Medicago truncatula and found a line with late-flowering and altered light-sensing phenotypes. Using RNA sequencing, we identified a nonsense mutation in the Phytochromobilin synthase (MtPΦBS) gene, which encodes an enzyme that carries out the final step in the biosynthesis of the chromophore required for phytochrome (phy) activity. The analysis of the circadian clock in the MtpΦbs mutant revealed a shorter circadian period, which was shared with the MtphyA mutant. The MtpΦbs and MtphyA mutants showed downregulation of the FT floral regulators MtFTa1 and MtFTb1/b2 and a change in phase for morning and night core clock genes. Our findings show that phyA is necessary to synchronize the circadian clock and integration of light signalling to precisely control the timing of flowering.
A Comprehensive High-Quality DNA and RNA Extraction Protocol for a Range of Cultivars and Tissue Types of the Woody Crop Avocado
Authors: Nath Onkar , Fletcher Stephen J. , Hayward Alice , Shaw Lindsay M. , Agarwal Rimjhim , Furtado Agnelo , Henry Robert J. , Mitter Neena
Published: January 2022

High-quality DNA and RNA forms the basis of genomic and genetic investigations. The extraction of DNA and RNA from woody trees, like avocado (Persea americana Mill.), is challenging due to compounds which interact with nucleic acids and influence separation. Previously reported methods of DNA and RNA extraction from avocado have issues of low yield, quality and applicability across different cultivars and tissue types. In the current study, methods have been optimised for high-quality DNA extraction from 40 avocado cultivars and RNA extraction from multiple tissue types, including roots, stem, leaves, flowers and fruits. The method is based on the modification of the cetyltrimethylammonium bromide buffer, centred around the specific optimisation of chemicals, such as sodium dodecyl sulphate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, sodium sulphite, polyethylene glycol and β-mercaptoethanol. The DNA extraction method yielded high-molecular weight DNA from the leaf tissue of 40 avocado cultivars belonging to Mexican, Guatemalan and West Indian avocado horticultural groups. The method was further optimised for RNA extraction from different avocado plant parts, enabling extraction using amounts as low as ~10 mg of starting material. The DNA and RNA extracted was successfully used for long- and short-read sequencing and gene expression analysis. The methods developed may also be applicable to other recalcitrant plant species.
Chemical Composition of Pinus nigra Arn. Unripe Seeds from Bulgaria
Authors: Fidan Hafize , Stankov Stanko , Stoyanova Magdalena , Petkova Zhana , Petkova Nadezhda , Stoyanova Albena , Ercisli Sezai , Choudhary Ravish , Karunakaran Rohini
Published: January 2022

The present paper aims to investigate the chemical composition of unripe black pine seeds obtained from Bulgaria. The lipid fraction was evaluated in unripe seeds, and the cellulose, total carbohydrates, glucose, fructose, and sucrose were evaluated in seedcakes. The major fatty acid identified in the Pinus nigra seed oil was unsaturated linoleic acid (44.2%), followed by the saturated palmitic acid (31.2%). The amount of unsaturated pinolenic (10.5%) and oleic acids (8.8%) was also rather high. The amino acid composition of the protein fraction of seedcakes was also determined. The amino acid composition was represented mainly by asparagine (3.92 mg/g), serine (3.79 mg/g), alanine (3.65 mg/g), arginine (3.32 mg/g), phenylalanine (2.98 mg/g), lysine (2.85 mg/g), proline (2.69 g/mg), tryptophan (2.44 mg/g), valine (2.33 mg/g), isoleucine (2.28 mg/g), and tyrosine (2.05 mg/g). The mineral content (N, P, K, Mg, Na, and Cu) of the seedcakes was evaluated, as the amount of K (8048.00 mg/kg) and Mg (172.99 mg/kg) were the highest in the samples. These findings emphasized the potential use of the unripe black pine seeds in different areas due to their chemical importance and values.
Does Elemental Sulfur Act as an Effective Measure to Control the Seasonal Growth Dynamics of Potato Tubers (Solanum tuberosum L.)?
Authors: Grzebisz Witold , Frąckowiak Karolina , Spiżewski Tomasz , Przygocka-Cyna Katarzyna
Published: January 2022

The in-season dynamics of potato tuber biomass (TTB) growth requires effective nitrogen (N) control. This hypothesis was tested in 2006 and 2007. The two-factorial experiment with two rates of N (60, 120 kg ha−1) and sulfur (S; 0, 50 kg ha−1) was carried out in the split-plot design. The third factor was the sampling of plants at 10-day intervals. The collected plant material was divided into leaves, stems, stolons + roots, and tubers. The seasonal trend of TTB was linear, while the biomass of leaves, stems, and stolons + roots was consistent with polynomial regression models. TTB was controlled by (i) the date of potato growth after emergence, when the TTB exceeded the leaf biomass (DAEcrit); (ii) the stem growth rate; and iii) the share of stems in the total potato biomass. TTB growth was reduced when DAEcrit preceded the DAEop for leaf biomass, determining its maximum. This phenomenon appeared in 2007 on plots fertilized only with N. The absolute growth rate of the stem biomass, exceeding ¼ of that of the tuber biomass in the descending phase, resulted in an increased and prolonged share of stems in the total potato biomass, which ultimately led to a decrease in tuber yield. The use of sulfur to balance the N, applied effectively, controlled the growth rate of potato organs competing with tubers.
Photosynthetic and Morphological Responses of Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) to Waterlogging Stress
Authors: Chen Chyi-Chuann , Li Ming-Sheng , Chen Kuan-Ting , Lin Yueh-Hua , Ko Swee-Suak
Published: January 2022

Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) is an important oilseed crop that is rich in fatty acids and protein. Climate-change-related stresses, such as chilling, high temperature, and waterlogging can cause severe production loss in this crop. In this study, we investigated the photosynthetic responses of sacha inchi seedlings to short-term waterlogging and their morphological changes after long-term waterlogging stress. Sacha inchi CO2 uptake, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate are affected by temperature and light intensity. The seedlings had a high CO2 uptake (>10 μmol m−2s−1) during the daytime (08:00 to 15:00), and at 32 and 36 °C. At 32 °C, CO2 uptake peaked at irradiations of 1000 and 1500 µmol m−2s−1, and plants could still perform photosynthesis at high-intensity radiation of 2000–3000 µmol m−2s−1. However, after 5 days of waterlogging (5 DAF) sacha inchi seedlings significantly reduced their photosynthetic ability. The CO2 uptake, stomatal conductance, Fv/Fm, ETR, and qP, etc., of the susceptible genotypes, were significantly decreased and their wilting percentage was higher than 50% at 5 DAF. This led to a higher wilting percentage at 7 days post-recovery. Among the four lines assessed, Line 27 had a high photosynthetic capability and showed the best waterlogging tolerance. We screened many seedlings for long-term waterlogging tolerance and discovered that some seedlings can produce adventitious roots (AR) and survive after two weeks of waterlogging. Hence, AR could be a critical morphological adaptation to waterlogging in this crop. In summary, these results suggest that improvement in waterlogging tolerance has considerable potential for increasing the sustainable production of sacha inchi.
Characterization and Control of Thielaviopsis punctulata on Date Palm in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhudaib Khalid A. , El-Ganainy Sherif M. , Almaghasla Mustafa I. , Sattar Muhammad N.
Published: January 2022

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is the most important edible fruit crop in Saudi Arabia. Date palm cultivation and productivity are severely affected by various fungal diseases in date palm-producing countries. In recent years, black scorch disease has emerged as a devastating disease affecting date palm cultivation in the Arabian Peninsula. In the current survey, leaves and root samples were collected from deteriorated date palm trees showing variable symptoms of neck bending, leaf drying, tissue necrosis, wilting, and mortality of the entire tree in the Al-Ahsa region of Saudi Arabia. During microscopic examination, the fungus isolates growing on potato dextrose agar (PDA) media produced thick-walled chlamydospores and endoconidia. The morphological characterization confirmed the presence of Thielaviopsis punctulata in the date palm plant samples as the potential agent of black scorch disease. The results were further confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), sequencing, and phylogenetic dendrograms of partial regions of the ITS, TEF1-α, and β-tubulin genes. The nucleotide sequence comparison showed that the T. punctulata isolates were 99.9–100% identical to each other and to the T. punctulata isolate identified from Iraq-infecting date palm trees. The pathogenicity of the three selected T. punctulata isolates was also confirmed on date palm plants of Khalas cultivar. The morphological, molecular, and pathogenicity results confirmed that T. punctulata causes black scorch disease in symptomatic date palm plants in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, seven commercially available fungicides were also tested for their potential efficacy to control black scorch disease. The in vitro application of the three fungicides Aliette, Score, and Tachigazole reduced the fungal growth zone by 86–100%, respectively, whereas the in vivo studies determined that the fungicides Aliette and Score significantly impeded the mycelial progression of T. punctulata with 40% and 73% efficiency, respectively. These fungicides can be used in integrated disease management (IDM) strategies to curb black scorch disease.
Waste from Persea schiedeana Fruits as Potential Alternative for Biodiesel Production
Authors: López-Yerena Anallely , Guerra-Ramírez Diana , Reyes-Trejo Benito , Salgado-Escobar Irma , Cruz-Castillo Juan Guillermo
Published: January 2022

Biodiesel is a mixture of monoalkyl esters of fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal fats. Agricultural residues are a potential source of raw materials for generating biofuels. The aim of this research was to determine the usefulness of Persea schiedeana Nees fruit as a potential source to be transformed into biodiesel by alkaline transesterification. In this sense, biodiesel was obtained using oil isolated from overripe fruits of P. schiedeana, damaged by the Heilipus lauri pest. The fruits were collected in the municipality of Huatusco, Veracruz, Mexico. The maceration of the fruits with hexane resulted in an oil with a high percentage of free fatty acids (8.36 ± 1.35%). The main components of the biodiesel were methyl oleate (53.12%) and methyl palmitate (25.74%). The dynamic viscosity of the biodiesel complies with ASTM D6751 and EN 14214 and the biodiesel blends with commercial diesel comply with ASTM D675, the calorific value showed an increase with increasing biodiesel concentration in the blends. This study demonstrates that the oil obtained from the overripe and surplus fruits of P. schiedeana is a viable feedstock for the production of a fuel to replace diesel.
Constructing Polyimide Aerogels with Carboxyl for CO2 Adsorption
Authors: Gao Yangfeng , Dong Chao , Zhang Fan , Ma Hongwei , Li Yang
Published: January 2022

In this study, mesoporous polyimide aerogels with carboxyl were successfully synthesized by the co-polymerization method at room temperature from pyromellitic dianhydride and 1,3,5-triaminophenoxybenzene, 3,5-diaminobenzoic acid, and 2,2′-dimethyl-4,4′-diaminobiphenyl. Compared to previously reported porous organic polymer materials, this aerogel has the advantage of a simple and efficient synthesis method. The thermal decomposition temperatures of the obtained polyimide aerogels are all above 400 °C and have excellent thermal stability. Among them, the largest specific surface area is 62.03 m2/g. Although the surface area of this aerogel is not large enough, it has considerable CO2 adsorption properties. The adsorption capacity of CO2 is up to 11.9 cm3/g, which is comparable to those of previously reported porous materials. The high CO2 adsorption is attributed to the abundance of carboxyl groups in the polyimide networks. The mild and convenient synthesis method and high CO2 adsorption capacity indicate that the polyimide aerogel with carboxyl is suitable as a good candidate material for CO2 adsorption.
Masking Abilities of Dental Cad/Cam Resin Composite Materials Related to Substrate and Luting Material
Authors: Porojan Liliana , Vasiliu Roxana Diana , Porojan Sorin Daniel
Published: January 2022

An outstanding treatment challenge related to aesthetic monolithic materials is to mask discolored substrates in aesthetic areas. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the substrate masking ability of different resin composite materials and the influence of their association with luting agents and substrates. Five types of 2M2 HT (high translucency) resin composite materials were selected: Vita Enamic [E] and four types of nanoparticle-filled composites Lava Ultimate [L], Cerasmart [C], Shofu HC [S], and Hyramic [H]. Resin composite Vita VM LC with different shades was used for the substrates: 2M2, 3M2, and CP2. Variolink Esthetic Try-inpastes neutral, light+, and warm+ colors were chosen to simulate the luting agent color. Optical parameters (TP (translucency), CR (contrast ratio), and OP (opalesce)) and color differences ΔE (chromatic difference) were calculated. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the comparisons between the groups and establish correlations. TP average values for all materials were in the range of 21.49–24.53. OP average values were in the rage of 6.31–7.85. OP is moderate positive correlated to TP and CR is negative and strong correlated to TP. Related to materials, average color changes decrease as following: E > H > C > L > S. Referring to the tryin material, warm colors induce marked color changes of the restoration. The differences of the color changes determined by all studied substrates are significant. For the final aesthetic aspect of the restoration, it is essential to consider the underlying dental structure, luting agent, and restoration material as a whole unit. The masking ability of the investigated resin matrix ceramic materials materials shows differences, the best behavior demonstrated Shofu HC and Lava Ultimate. Marked color changes are related to high chroma substrates. For substrates with a darker color, the association with warm try-in pastes lead to marked color changes, but with neutral and light try-in pastes at most perceivable.
Investigation of Biofouling and Its Effect on the Properties of Basalt Fiber Reinforced Plastic Rebars Exposed to Extremely Cold Climate Conditions
Authors: Kychkin Anatoly K. , Erofeevskaya Larisa Anatoljevna , Kychkin Aisen , Vasileva Elena D. , Struchkov Nikolay F. , Lebedev Mikhail P.
Published: January 2022

For the first time, the possibility of penetration of mold fungi mycelium and spore-forming bacteria into the structure of basalt fiber reinforced plastic rebars has been shown in laboratory and field experiments. Biological contamination at the “fiber-binding” border reveals areas of swelling and penetration of mold fungi mycelium and bacterial spore cells into the binder component. After the exposure of samples at extremely low temperatures, strains of mold fungi of the genus Aspergillus were also isolated from the surface of the rebars. Additionally, spore-forming bacteria of the genus Bacillus immobilized for samples from two years ago. This indicates the high viability of immobilized strains in cold climates. Aboriginal microflora isolated by the enrichment culture technique from the samples was represented by: actinobacteria of the genera Nocardia and Streptomyces; yeast of the genus Rhodotorula; and mold fungi of the genus Penicillium. It was shown that the enrichment culture technique is a highly informative method of diagnosing the bio-infection of polymer composite materials during their operation in extremely low temperatures. The metabolic activity of the cells of cryophilic microorganisms isolated from experimental samples of basalt fiber reinforced plastic rebars was associated with the features of the enzymes and fatty acid composition of the lipid bilayer of cell membranes. In the case of temperature conditions when conventional (mesophilic) microorganisms stop developing vegetative cells, the process of transition of the lipid bilayer of cell membranes into a gel-like state was activated. This transition of the lipid bilayer to a gel-like state allowed the prevention of crystallization and death of the microbial cell when the ambient temperature dropped to negative values and as a result, after thawing, growth resumed and the metabolic activity of the microorganisms was restored. Studies have been carried out on the effect of biodepletion on the elastic strength characteristics, porosity and monolithicity of these materials, while at the same time, after a two year exposure, the strength preservation coefficient was k = 0.82 and the porosity increased by more than two times. The results show that the selected strains affect the properties of polymeric materials in cold climates in relation to the organic components in the structure of polymer composites.
Flame-Retardant Performance Evaluation of Functional Coatings Filled with Mg(OH)2 and Al(OH)3
Authors: Piperopoulos Elpida , Scionti Giuseppe , Atria Mario , Calabrese Luigi , Proverbio Edoardo
Published: January 2022

In the shipbuilding sector (cruises, ferries, etc.), the design and control constraints applied to improve the fire safety conditions of naval vessels are acquiring important relevance. Research activities have aimed at enhancing the fire resistance of structures and surface coatings to make ships’ working environments safer, trying to combine performance, durability and low costs. In this context, the aim of this paper is to develop and optimize flame-retardant coatings for naval applications. In particular, in an acrylic carrier, Mg(OH)2 and Al(OH)3 fillers were added to exalt the fire resistance capabilities of the coatings. Furthermore, the effect of the particle size of the hydroxides on the coatings’ fire resistance was investigated. The coatings were studied by structural (XRD), thermo-physical (TG) and morphological (SEM) characterization to evaluate their thermal stability and the damage level due to fire exposition. Specifically, fire reaction tests were applied at different fire exposure times (15 s, 30 s) to estimate the fire resistance of the proposed coatings compared to the commercial reference. The results show that the coatings based on aluminum and magnesium hydroxides exhibit favorable fire resistance. Particularly, effective performances were observed for short times of exposure to direct flames. Furthermore, the temperature monitoring of the steel alloy support during the test allowed us to evaluate the degree of insulation of the coating, highlighting a better result for the specimen filled with Mg(OH)2, making this product promising for its optimization in this context.
Reactive Magnetron Plasma Modification of Electrospun PLLA Scaffolds with Incorporated Chloramphenicol for Controlled Drug Release
Authors: Volokhova Apollinariya A. , Fedorishin Dmitry A. , Khvastunova Arina O. , Spiridonova Tatiana I. , Kozelskaya Anna I. , Kzhyshkowska Julia , Tverdokhlebov Sergei I. , Kurzina Irina
Published: January 2022

Surface modification with the plasma of the direct current reactive magnetron sputtering has demonstrated its efficacy as a tool for enhancing the biocompatibility of polymeric electrospun scaffolds. Improvement of the surface wettability of materials with water, as well as the formation of active chemical bonds in the near-surface layers, are the main reasons for the described effect. These surface effects are also known to increase the release rate of drugs incorporated in fibers. Herein, we investigated the effect of plasma modification on the chloramphenicol release from electrospun poly (lactic acid) fibrous scaffolds. Scaffolds with high—50 wt./wt.%—drug content were obtained. It was shown that plasma modification leads to an increase in the drug release rate and drug diffusion coefficient, while not deteriorating surface morphology and mechanical properties of scaffolds. The materials’ antibacterial activity was observed to increase in the first day of the experiment, while remaining on the same level as the unmodified group during the next six days. The proposed technique for modifying the surface of scaffolds will be useful for obtaining drug delivery systems with controlled accelerated release, which can expand the possibilities of local applications of antibiotics and other drugs.
Programmable Transition between Adhesive/Anti-Adhesive Performances on Porous PVDF Spheres Supported by Shape Memory PLLA
Authors: Zhao Jiaqin , Zhang Liang , Cheng Xiong , Wang Jiayao , Li Yongjin , You Jichun
Published: January 2022

Superhydrophobic surfaces with switchable adhesive/anti-adhesive performances are highly desired but still challenging. Herein, by loading porous poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) spheres on a shape memory polylactic acid (PLLA) film, a quasi-superhydrophobic surface of composite film (PVDF@PLLA) with the ability to tailor its surface structures/composition and related adhesive behaviors was fabricated. The as-prepared surface is covered by porous PVDF spheres. The combination of hydrophobicity of PVDF and hierarchical roughness resulted from porous spheres contributing to the high contact angle and low sliding angle, corresponding to Cassie state and lotus leaves effect. Upon uniaxial or biaxial tension, the distance among hydrophobic spheres is so high that more and more hydrophilic defects (PLLA film) have been exposed to water droplets, accounting for the quasi-superhydrophobic surface with a higher sliding angle. This is the reason for the Wenzel state and rose petals effect. After heating, PLLA film recovers to its original state. The porous PVDF spheres cover the whole film again, leading to the enhanced mobility of water droplets on the surface. The transition between the rose petals effect and the lotus leaves effect is programmable and reversible. Our result provides a novel strategy to tailor adhesive behaviors by combining (quasi-)superhydrophobic surface with shape memory effect.
Biotechnological Aspects and Mathematical Modeling of the Biodegradation of Plastics under Controlled Conditions
Authors: Baldera-Moreno Yvan , Pino Valentina , Farres Amelia , Banerjee Aparna , Gordillo Felipe , Andler Rodrigo
Published: January 2022

The strong environmental impact caused by plastic pollution has led research to address studies from different perspectives. The mathematical modeling of the biodegradation kinetics of solid materials is a major challenge since there are many influential variables in the process and there is interdependence of microorganisms with internal and external factors. In addition, as solid substrates that are highly hydrophobic, mass transfer limitations condition degradation rates. Some mathematical models have been postulated in order to understand the biodegradation of plastics in natural environments such as oceans. However, if tangible and optimizable solutions are to be found, it is necessary to study the biodegradation process under controlled conditions, such as using bioreactors and composting systems. This review summarizes the biochemical fundamentals of the main plastics (both petrochemical and biological origins) involved in biodegradation processes and combines them with the main mathematical equations and models proposed to date. The different biodegradation studies of plastics under controlled conditions are addressed, analyzing the influencing factors, assumptions, model developments, and correlations with laboratory-scale results. It is hoped that this review will provide a comprehensive overview of the process and will serve as a reference for future studies, combining practical experimental work and bioprocess modeling systems.
The Devil and the Doctor: The (De)Medicalization of Exorcism in the Roman Catholic Church
Authors: Bauer Nicole Maria
Published: January 2022

Exorcists are once again in demand for their very specific set of skills in (religious) healing. The founding of the International Association of Exorcists (AIE), the development of the “Exorcism and Prayer of Liberation Course” at a Vatican university, and countless publications from prominent Catholic exorcists are evidence for the relevance of exorcism in contemporary societies. Even though it is strictly speaking a liturgical practice, current exorcism discourses incorporate medical approaches and terminology. The relationship between religion and medicine is subject to change in late modern societies, as illness, health, and healing have increasingly shifted from the realm of religion to the realm of modern medicine. While mainstream churches come to terms with the prevailing paradigms of modernity, healing practices such as exorcism are (again) gaining importance on the margins. This article illuminates the tension between religion and medicine, as religious experts (exorcists) interact with medical experts and give their religious healing practices legitimacy through reference to medical and psychological methods.
SHARAD Observations of Temporal Variations of CO2 Ice Deposits at the South Pole of Mars
Authors: Xu Xiaoting , Xu Yi , Meng Xu
Published: January 2022

Mars’s polar regions are covered by kilometers-thick layered deposits which carry a record of the planet’s climate history. The deposition and volatilization of the shallow CO2 deposits in the south pole have a large impact on the planet’s atmosphere and environment. This research focuses on the timing variation of the thickness of the shallow deposits based on the SHARAD data collected from the past 11 terrestrial years, and analysis of the contributing factors based on the volatilization and deposition mechanisms of surface and subsurface materials. In this work, we selected more than four thousand data points, covering several seasons and Martian years, to extract radar echoes and calculate the thickness changes in the subsurface layer over time. We found that the thickness of the CO2 layer becomes thinner in the summer, with seasonal variation in the range of ~16–45 m. The thickness variations have a Gaussian-like distribution and do not increase with the distance between the compared node pair, implying that the phenomenon is not caused by regional differences. The overall thickness within the 11 terrestrial years does not show a clear trend of thickening or thinning, indicating a moderate vertical change of the southern deposits.