bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auditory Mismatch Negativity in Youth Affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder With and Without Attenuated Psychosis Syndrome
Authors: Di Lorenzo Giorgio , Riccioni Assia , Ribolsi Michele , Siracusano Martina , Curatolo Paolo , Mazzone Luigi
Published: November 2020

The present study investigates the differences in auditory mismatch negativity (MMN) parameters given in a sample of young subjects with autism spectrum disorder (ASD, n = 37) with or without co-occurrent attenuated psychosis syndrome (APS). Our results show that ASD individuals present an MMN decreased amplitude and prolonged latency, without being influenced by concurrent APS. Additionally, when correlating the MMN indexes to clinical features, in the ASD + APS group, we found a negative correlation between the severity of autistic symptoms and the MMN latency in both frequency (f-MMN r = −0.810; p < 0.0001) and duration (d-MMN r = −0.650; p = 0.006) deviants. Thus, our results may provide a more informative characterization of the ASD sub-phenotype when associated with APS, highlighting the need for further longitudinal investigations.
Roles of the Retinotopic and Environmental Frames of Reference on Vection
Authors: Fujimoto Kanon , Ashida Hiroshi
Published: November 2020

Humans perceive self-motion using multisensory information, while vision has a dominant role as is utilized in virtual reality (VR) technologies. Previous studies reported that visual motion presented in the lower visual field (LoVF) induces stronger illusion of self-motion (vection) as compared with the upper visual field (UVF). However, it was still unknown whether the LoVF superiority in vection was based on the retinotopic frame, or rather related to the environmental frame of reference. Here, we investigated the influences of retinotopic and environmental frames on the LoVF superiority of vection. We presented a planer surface along the depth axis in one of four visual fields (upper, lower, right, or left). The texture on the surface moved forward or backward. Participants reported vection while observing the visual stimulus through a VR head mounted display (HMD) in the sitting posture or lateral recumbent position. Results showed that the visual motion induced stronger vection when presented in the LoVF compared with the UVF in both postures. Notably, the vection rating in LoVF was stronger in the sitting than in the recumbent. Moreover, recumbent participants reported stronger vection when the stimulus was presented in the gravitationally lower field than in the gravitationally upper field. These results demonstrate contribution of multiple spatial frames on self-motion perception and imply the importance of ground surface.
Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Community Changes Downstream of the Hydropower Generating Dams in Myanmar-Potential Negative Impacts From Increased Power Generation
Authors: Ko Nyein Thandar , Suter Phil , Conallin John , Rutten Martine , Bogaard Thom
Published: November 2020

Intensive and incessant disruptions in watercourses such as dams are taking place due to the growing demand for hydroelectric generation, and can result in severe deterioration of ecosystem integrity. This research concentrates on the impact of dams on macroinvertebrate communities downstream of two hydropower dams on tributaries of the upper Ayeyarwady River basin (Myitnge and Chaungmagyi Rivers) in Myanmar. A total of 52 and 49 aquatic invertebrate taxa with a total abundance of 2,743 and 1,356 were collected from the Myitnge and Chuangamgyi Rivers, respectively. We found the natural flow regime had changed in both study rivers after the construction of the dams. Analysis of similarity (ANOSIM) indicated the communities of morphospecies of taxa and the very sensitive insects (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera, and Odonata, EPTO) were significantly different between upstream and downstream of both dams. We used the preliminary Myanmar Aquatic Biomonitoring Assessment Index (MABA) detect ecological water quality. The MABA analysis using all taxa at family-level showed that upstream of the dams was rated as good quality whereas downstream of the dams was rated as fair quality. Our research showed that macroinvertebrates communities can be used as a bioindicator to detect the impact of human influences on river health such as dams. We concluded that the novel biomonitoring assessment tool recently developed for Myanmar is a promising monitoring tool as further river development occurs in Myanmar, which could also be linked to citizen science projects.
An Innovative Corn to Silage-Grass-Legume Intercropping System With Oversown Black Oat and Soybean to Silage in Succession for the Improvement of Nutrient Cycling
Authors: Pariz Cristiano Magalhães , Costa Nídia Raquel , Costa Ciniro , Crusciol Carlos Alexandre Costa , de Castilhos André Michel , Meirelles Paulo Roberto de Lima , Calonego Juliano Carlos , Andreotti Marcelo , Souza Daniel Martins de , Cruz Igor Vilela , Longhini Vanessa Zirondi , Protes Verena Micheletti , Sarto Jaqueline Rocha Wobeto , Piza Marina Lais Sabião de Toledo , Melo Verônica Freitas de Paula , Sereia Rodrigo César , Fachiolli Daniele Floriano , Almeida Fabiana Alves de , Souza Luiz Gustavo Moretti de , Franzluebbers Alan Joseph
Published: November 2020

In the context of sustainable tropical agriculture, an innovative corn (Zea maysL.) to silage-grass-legume intercropping system can promotes plant diversity, improves agronomic performance and land-use efficiency, and increases the yield of oversown black oat (Avena strigosaSchreb) and soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.] to silage in succession. Thus, during three growing seasons on a Typic Haplorthox in Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil, four treatments of a corn to silage production system were implemented in summer/autumn with black oat oversown in winter/spring: (1) corn intercropped with palisade grass (Urochloa brizantha“Marandu”) and black oat overseeded in lines; (2) corn intercropped with palisade grass and black oat overseeded in a broadcast system with superficial incorporation; (3) corn intercropped with palisade grass + pigeon pea [Cajanus cajan(L.) Millsp.] and black oat overseeded in lines; and (4) corn intercropped with palisade grass + pigeon pea and black oat overseeded in a broadcast system with superficial incorporation. During winter/spring, the black oat pastures were grazed by lambs, but results on forage allowance and nutritive value for animal grazing and on animal performance are not reported in the present manuscript. In the fourth growing season, the effect of soybean to silage intercropped with guinea grass (Panicum maximum“Aruana”), with only a residual effect of the four production systems from the previous three growing seasons, was evaluated. Despite greater interspecific competition of palisade grass and pigeon pea intercropped with corn, this more complex system produced better results. Thus, when analyzing this system as a whole, the triple intercrop (corn + pigeon pea + palisade grass) combined with oversown black oat in lines was the most effective option for silage production and for the improvement of other elements of system productivity, such higher surface mulch quantity, leaf nutrient concentrations, and yield of soybean to silage intercropped with guinea grass. This intercrop also generated better nutrient cycling because an increased quantity of nutrients was retained in standing plant residue and surface mulch, which resulted in better land- and nutrient-use efficiency, with an emphasis on nitrogen and potassium.
Pressure Algometry for the Detection of Mechanical Nociceptive Thresholds in Horses
Authors: Haussler Kevin K.
Published: November 2020

The clinical assessment of pain is subjective; therefore, variations exist between practitioners in their ability to identify and localize pain. Due to differing interpretations of the signs or severity of pain equine practitioners may assign varying levels of clinical significance and treatment options. There is a critical need to develop better tools to qualify and quantify pain in horses. Palpation is the most common method to detect local tenderness or sensitivity. To quantify this applied pressure, pressure algometry has been used to gradually apply pressure over specified landmarks until an avoidance response is noted, which is defined as the mechanical nociceptive threshold (MNT). Numerous studies have used pressure algometry in different applications to measure MNTs in horses. There is an acute need to establish normative values within different body regions and to develop standardized methods of testing MNTs to better guide practitioners in the diagnosis and treatment of pain. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the evidence for the use of pressure algometry in horses. There is good evidence that pressure algometry is a repeatable, semi-objective method that can be used in a wide array of clinical and research applications to assess MNTs in horses.
Preterm Birth Impedes Structural and Functional Development of Cerebellar Purkinje Cells in the Developing Baboon Cerebellum
Authors: Barron Tara , Kim Jun Hee
Published: November 2020

Human cerebellar development occurs late in gestation and is hindered by preterm birth. The fetal development of Purkinje cells, the primary output cells of the cerebellar cortex, is crucial for the structure and function of the cerebellum. However, morphological and electrophysiological features in Purkinje cells at different gestational ages, and the effects of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) experience on cerebellar development are unexplored. Utilizing the non-human primate baboon cerebellum, we investigated Purkinje cell development during the last trimester of pregnancy and the effect of NICU experience following premature birth on developmental features of Purkinje cells. Immunostaining and whole-cell patch clamp recordings of Purkinje cells in the baboon cerebellum at different gestational ages revealed that molecular layer width, driven by Purkinje dendrite extension, drastically increased and refinement of action potential waveform properties occurred throughout the last trimester of pregnancy. Preterm birth followed by NICU experience for 2 weeks impeded development of Purkinje cells, including action potential waveform properties, synaptic input, and dendrite extension compared with age-matched controls. In addition, these alterations impact Purkinje cell output, reducing the spontaneous firing frequency in deep cerebellar nucleus (DCN) neurons. Taken together, the primate cerebellum undergoes developmental refinements during late gestation, and NICU experience following extreme preterm birth influences morphological and physiological features in the cerebellum that can lead to functional deficits.
Chronic Ethanol Exposure during Adolescence Increases Voluntary Ethanol Consumption in Adulthood in Female Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Maldonado-Devincci Antoniette M. , Kirstein Cheryl L.
Published: November 2020

Early alcohol use is a major concern due to the dramatic rise in alcohol use during adolescence. In humans, adolescent males and females consume alcohol at equivalent rates; however, in adulthood males are more likely to consume harmful levels of alcohol. In animal models, the long-term dose-dependent and sex-dependent effects of alcohol exposure during adolescence have not been readily assessed relative to exposure that is initiated in adulthood. The purpose of the present set of experiments was to determine if adolescent exposure to chronic ethanol would predispose male and female rats to greater ethanol intake in adulthood when compared to animals that were not exposed to chronic ethanol exposure until early adulthood. Male and female rats were chronically administered 0.75 g/kg or 1.5 g/kg ethanol or saline for 21 days during adolescence (postnatal day (PND) 30–50) or adulthood (PND 60–80). All rats subsequently underwent 14-days of abstinence (PND 51–64 or PND 81–94, respectively). Finally, all rats were given 30-min daily access to saccharin-sweetened ethanol or saccharin alone from PND 65–80 for adolescent-exposed rats and PND 95–110 for adult-exposed rats. Exposure to 0.75 g/kg ethanol did not alter ethanol or saccharin intake in adolescent-exposed or adult-exposed rats, regardless of sex. In contrast, chronic exposure to the higher 1.5 g/kg dose during adolescence increased ethanol intake in adulthood in female rats. However, there was no change in saccharin intake in animals exposed to 1.5 g/kg ethanol during adolescence or adulthood, regardless of sex. Additionally, there were no clear age- and ethanol-dependent changes in duration of loss of righting reflex and blood ethanol concentrations to a challenge administration of a higher dose of ethanol. The results of the present set of experiments indicate chronic exposure to a high dose of ethanol during adolescence in female rats did indeed predispose rats to consume more ethanol in adulthood. Given that these effects were only observed in adolescent-exposed female rats, these results support a unique vulnerability to the long-term consequences of adolescent ethanol exposure in female rats, an effect that is not merely mediated by the sweetener used in the ethanol solution.
Auditory Brainstem Responses (ABR) of Rats during Experimentally Induced Tinnitus: Literature Review
Authors: Domarecka Ewa , Olze Heidi , Szczepek Agnieszka J.
Published: November 2020

Tinnitus is a subjective phantom sound perceived only by the affected person and a symptom of various auditory and non-auditory conditions. The majority of methods used in clinical and basic research for tinnitus diagnosis are subjective. To better understand tinnitus-associated changes in the auditory system, an objective technique measuring auditory sensitivity—the auditory brainstem responses (ABR)—has been suggested. Therefore, the present review aimed to summarize ABR’s features in a rat model during experimentally induced tinnitus. PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Scopus databanks were searched using Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms: auditory brainstem response, tinnitus, rat. The search identified 344 articles, and 36 of them were selected for the full-text analyses. The experimental protocols and results were evaluated, and the gained knowledge was synthesized. A high level of heterogeneity between the studies was found regarding all assessed areas. The most consistent finding of all studies was a reduction in the ABR wave I amplitude following exposure to noise and salicylate. Simultaneously, animals with salicylate-induced but not noise-induced tinnitus had an increased amplitude of wave IV. Furthermore, the present study identified a need to develop a consensus experimental ABR protocol applied in future tinnitus studies using the rat model.
Crystal Structure Characterization by Powder Diffraction
Authors: Rizzi Rosanna , Altomare Angela
Published: November 2020

The important role played by powder diffraction in the last twenty-five years both in its earlier fields of application (e [...]
Educational Response to a Student with Psychosis at the Secondary Level: A Non-Experimental Single-Case Study
Authors: Martínez-Ramón Juan Pedro , Méndez Inmaculada , Ruiz Esteban Cecilia
Published: November 2020

Students with psychosis in school within the ordinary education system are a reality in the classroom. To study their correct adaptation at school, it is necessary to consider numerous factors such as the personal characteristics of the student, environmental variables, educational measures put in place as well as emotional and cognitive aspects. The aim of this research was to monitor the teaching–learning process of a student diagnosed with psychosis and enrolled in a public school at the secondary level in the ordinary modality with support during an academic year, with the usual resources provided by a guidance department to assess the impact of the educational measures and plans on his emotional and academic fields. This was a single case study in which both qualitative and quantitative information was collected (N = 1). The participant was a student with special needs at the secondary level. An analysis of the results of psychometric tests, plan for diversity, observational analysis, academic file, scholastic history, and multiple interviews were carried out. The findings show how the educational curriculum can be adapted to improve the competences of a student with psychosis by encouraging an increase in social abilities and potential cognitive abilities through the counseling department. The conclusions of this research can provide a guideline for comparison of different educational systems, paying greater attention to the development of emotional aspects, and opting for inclusive measures. In this line, this study shows that students with psychosis can share classrooms and studies with their peers, thus fulfilling the principle of educational inclusion.
A New Reproducing Kernel Approach for Nonlinear Fractional Three-Point Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Sakar Mehmet Giyas , Saldır Onur
Published: November 2020

In this article, a new reproducing kernel approach is developed for obtaining a numerical solution of multi-order fractional nonlinear three-point boundary value problems. This approach is based on a reproducing kernel, which is constructed by shifted Legendre polynomials (L-RKM). In the considered problem, fractional derivatives with respect to α and β are defined in the Caputo sense. This method has been applied to some examples that have exact solutions. In order to show the robustness of the proposed method, some examples are solved and numerical results are given in tabulated forms.
Assessing the Food Safety Risk Posed by Birds Entering Leafy Greens Fields in the US Southwest
Authors: Fonseca Jorge M. , Ravishankar Sadhana , Sanchez Charles A. , Park Eunhee , Nolte Kurt D.
Published: November 2020

In the US Southwest, it is common to observe birds in leafy green fields, though the risk they contribute to foodborne outbreaks remains unclear. In this study, we investigated and recorded the relationship between birds near leafy green fields and the risk for contaminated irrigation water or leafy green plants. We monitored the presence of birds for over two years and performed cloacal swab analysis for non-pathogenic Escherichia coli, E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonellaenterica, while also monitoring the incidence of other microbial indicators. We also assessed the risks from bird feces by performing observations in a commercial field reported with Salmonella positive samples and by analyzing the survival of foodborne pathogens in bird feces. Our results showed that most of the birds near the crop fields were resident small birds. We did not observe a correlation between the number of birds in sites and the incidence of indicator bacteria (e.g., coliforms, E. coli) in irrigation canal water, with the exception of one out of four sites where water flow was low or stagnant. Using walk-in-traps, 305 birds were captured and placed in short-term captivity to determine the presence of various bacteria. None of the birds tested positive for E. coli O157:H7 or Salmonella. However, nearly 40% of the birds captured were confirmed positive for non-pathogenic E. coli. We found no correlation between age (young, adult, unknown), gender (male, female, unknown) and the incidence of E. coli positive birds, but we observed significantly higher probability of incidence during October–December. The role of relative humidity and temperature on bacterial survival appeared to play a key role in the survival of Salmonella on the leaves of spinach plants in a commercial field. This was also confirmed in laboratory conditions where Salmonella inoculated in bird feces and exposed to 15 °C and 80% RH(Relative humidity) survived beyond 133 days, while at 26 °C and 40% RH, the organism was undetectable after 63 days. Our results suggest that local birds associated with leafy green fields likely pose a minimal impact of risk for food contamination, but also points out the need for increased analysis specifically for E. coli O157:H7. Furthermore, our study suggests the need for expanding research that addresses risks associated with large migratory birds, especially in areas where stagnated water sources would be used for overhead sprinkle irrigation.
Dynamic Tensile Properties and Energy Dissipation of High-Strength Concrete after Exposure to Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Lv Nao , Wang Hai-bo , Zong Qi , Wang Meng-xiang , Cheng Bing
Published: November 2020

In view of the devastating outcomes of fires and explosions, it is imperative to research the dynamic responses of concrete structures at high temperatures. For this purpose, the effects of the strain rate and high temperatures on the dynamic tension behavior and energy characteristics of high-strength concrete were investigated in this paper. Dynamic tests were conducted on high-strength concrete after exposure to the temperatures of 200, 400, and 600 °C by utilizing a 74 mm diameter split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) apparatus. We found that the quasi-static and dynamic tensile strength of high-strength concrete gradually decreased and that the damage degree rose sharply with the rise of temperature. The dynamic tensile strength and specific energy absorption of high-strength concrete had a significant strain rate effect. The crack propagation law gradually changed from directly passing through the coarse aggregate to extending along the bonding surface between the coarse aggregate and the mortar matrix with the elevation of temperature. When designing the material ratio, materials with high-temperature resistance and high tensile strength should be added to strengthen the bond between the mortar and the aggregate and to change the failure mode of the structure to resist the softening effect of temperature.
Evaluation of Intestinal Absorption of Dietary Halocynthiaxanthin, a Carotenoid from the Sea Squirt Halocynthia roretzi
Authors: Ikeda Chiaki , Manabe Yuki , Tomonaga Nami , Wada Tatsuya , Maoka Takashi , Sugawara Tatsuya
Published: November 2020

Halocynthiaxanthin is an acetylenic carotenoid mainly found in Halocynthia roretzi. To date, several bioactivities of halocynthiaxanthin have been reported, but its mechanism of digestion and absorption in mammals has not been studied yet. In this study, we evaluated the intestinal absorption of halocynthiaxanthin in mice. The halocynthiaxanthin-rich fraction was prepared from the tunicate Halocynthia roretzi. Mice were orally administered the fraction at a dose of 5 mg/kg body weight. The halocynthiaxanthin levels in the plasma, liver, and small intestine, were quantified using HPLC-PDA, 1, 3, 6, and 9 h after ingestion. The halocynthiaxanthin-rich fraction mainly consisted of the all-trans form and a small amount of cis forms. These three isomers were detected in the plasma of mice 3 h after ingestion. Time-course changes after the ingestion of this fraction were found, with cis isomers being more abundant than the all-trans isomer in the mouse plasma and liver. In the small intestine, however, the all-trans isomer was primarily detected. The possibility that cis isomers might be absorbed rapidly from the small intestine cannot be denied, but our results suggest that dietary all-trans-halocynthiaxanthin might be isomerized to the cis isomer after intestinal absorption.
Corrosion Study of Selective Laser Melted IN718 Alloy upon Post Heat Treatment and Shot Peening
Authors: Mythreyi Opadhrishta Venkataramana , Raja Allavikutty , Nagesha Bommanahalli Kenchappa , Jayaganthan Rengaswamy
Published: November 2020

Selective laser melted (SLM) IN 718 alloy specimens are subjected to heat treatment and shot peening to assess the effect of post processing on the corrosion performance of the alloy in a 3.5 wt % NaCl solution. The four conditions used in this analysis are as-built material (AB), heat-treated as-built material (HT), shot-peened as-built material (SP), and heat-treated and shot-peened as-built material (HTSP). Microstructural studies revealed the presence of a 500 nm sized cellular structure with a γ matrix surrounded by the Laves phase in the AB material. Shot-peening reduced the surface roughness of the AB and HT samples to almost 80%. The potentiodynamic experiments revealed a highest Icorr value of 0.21 µA/cm2 for the AB material and the lowest Icorr value of 0.04 µA/cm2 for the HTSP material. In the Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) analysis, the Nyquist plot substantiated the increasing corrosion resistance in the same order of decreasing corrosion rate. The Bode plot exhibited two resistance–capacitance (RC) time constants for all four conditions. The solution resistance measured around 30 Ω, with the HTSP specimen exhibiting the highest passive film resistance of 676 kΩ cm2 and the AB specimen exhibiting the lowest passive film resistance of 234 kΩ cm2. This study has shown that elimination of the network of the Laves phase in SLM material through heat treatment and smooth surface morphology achieved through shot peening improves the corrosion resistance of Inconel 718 alloy.
Editorial for the Launching of Mining Journal
Authors: Benzaazoua Mostafa
Published: November 2020

Worldwide, the mining industry played a very important role in the first industrial revolution during the previous century [...]
Small Molecule Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Inhibitors in Multitarget and Combination Therapies for Inflammation and Cancer
Authors: Das Mahapatra Amarjyoti , Choubey Rinku , Datta Bhaskar
Published: November 2020

The enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) plays a central role in metabolism of bioactive lipid signaling molecules. The substrate-specific hydrolase activity of sEH converts epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) to less bioactive dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids. EETs exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antihypertensive, cardio-protective and organ-protective properties. Accordingly, sEH inhibition is a promising therapeutic strategy for addressing a variety of diseases. In this review, we describe small molecule architectures that have been commonly deployed as sEH inhibitors with respect to angiogenesis, inflammation and cancer. We juxtapose commonly used synthetic scaffolds and natural products within the paradigm of a multitarget approach for addressing inflammation and inflammation induced carcinogenesis. Structural insights from the inhibitor complexes and novel strategies for development of sEH-based multitarget inhibitors are also presented. While sEH inhibition is likely to suppress inflammation-induced carcinogenesis, it can also lead to enhanced angiogenesis via increased EET concentrations. In this regard, sEH inhibitors in combination chemotherapy are described. Urea and amide-based architectures feature prominently across multitarget inhibition and combination chemotherapy applications of sEH inhibitors.
Alkaloids: Therapeutic Potential against Human Coronaviruses
Authors: Fielding Burtram C. , da Silva Maia Bezerra Filho Carlos , Ismail Nasser S. M. , Sousa Damião Pergentino de
Published: November 2020

Alkaloids are a class of natural products known to have wide pharmacological activity and have great potential for the development of new drugs to treat a wide array of pathologies. Some alkaloids have antiviral activity and/or have been used as prototypes in the development of synthetic antiviral drugs. In this study, eleven anti-coronavirus alkaloids were identified from the scientific literature and their potential therapeutic value against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is discussed. In this study, in silico studies showed an affinity of the alkaloids for binding to the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, putatively preventing it from binding to the host cell. Lastly, several mechanisms for the known anti-coronavirus activity of alkaloids were discussed, showing that the alkaloids are interesting compounds with potential use as bioactive agents against SARS-CoV-2.
Microbiologically Induced Carbonate Precipitation in the Restoration and Conservation of Cultural Heritage Materials
Authors: Ortega-Villamagua Erick , Gudiño-Gomezjurado Marco , Palma-Cando Alex
Published: November 2020

Microbiologically induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) is a well-known biogeochemical process that allows the formation of calcium carbonate deposits in the extracellular environment. The high concentration of carbonate and calcium ions on the bacterial surface, which serves as nucleation sites, promotes the calcium carbonate precipitation filling and binding deteriorated materials. Historic buildings and artwork, especially those present in open sites, are susceptible to enhanced weathering resulting from environmental agents, interaction with physical-chemical pollutants, and living organisms, among others. In this work, some published variations of a novel and ecological surface treatment of heritage structures based on MICP are presented and compared. This method has shown to be successful as a restoration, consolidation, and conservation tool for improvement of mechanical properties and prevention of unwanted gas and fluid migration from historical materials. The treatment has revealed best results on porous media matrixes; nevertheless, it can also be applied on soil, marble, concrete, clay, rocks, and limestone. MICP is proposed as a potentially safe and powerful procedure for efficient conservation of worldwide heritage structures.
Anthocyanin Pigments: Beyond Aesthetics
Authors: Alappat Bindhu , Alappat Jayaraj
Published: November 2020

Anthocyanins are polyphenol compounds that render various hues of pink, red, purple, and blue in flowers, vegetables, and fruits. Anthocyanins also play significant roles in plant propagation, ecophysiology, and plant defense mechanisms. Structurally, anthocyanins are anthocyanidins modified by sugars and acyl acids. Anthocyanin colors are susceptible to pH, light, temperatures, and metal ions. The stability of anthocyanins is controlled by various factors, including inter and intramolecular complexations. Chromatographic and spectrometric methods have been extensively used for the extraction, isolation, and identification of anthocyanins. Anthocyanins play a major role in the pharmaceutical; nutraceutical; and food coloring, flavoring, and preserving industries. Research in these areas has not satisfied the urge for natural and sustainable colors and supplemental products. The lability of anthocyanins under various formulated conditions is the primary reason for this delay. New gene editing technologies to modify anthocyanin structures in vivo and the structural modification of anthocyanin via semi-synthetic methods offer new opportunities in this area. This review focusses on the biogenetics of anthocyanins; their colors, structural modifications, and stability; their various applications in human health and welfare; and advances in the field.
Natural Preparations Based on Orange, Bergamot and Clove Essential Oils and Their Chemical Compounds as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Alexa Vlad Tiberiu , Szuhanek Camelia , Cozma Antoanela , Galuscan Atena , Borcan Florin , Obistioiu Diana , Dehelean Cristina Adriana , Jumanca Daniela
Published: November 2020

Since ancient times complementary therapies have been based on the use of medicinal plants, natural preparations and essential oils in the treatment of various diseases. Their use in medical practice is recommended in view of their low toxicity, pharmacological properties and economic impact. This paper aims to test the antimicrobial effect of natural preparation based on clove, orange and bergamot essential oils on a wide range of microorganisms that cause infections in humans including: Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella flexneri, Candida parapsilosis, Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium and Haemophilus influenza. Three natural preparations such as one-component emulsions: clove (ECEO), bergamote (EBEO), and orange (EOEO), three binary: E(BEO/CEO), E(BEO/OEO), E(CEO/OEO) and a tertiary emulsion E(OEO/BEO/CEO) were obtained, characterized and tested for antimicrobial effects. Also, the synergistic/antagonistic effects, generated by the presence of the main chemical compounds, were studied in order to recommend a preparation with optimal antimicrobial activity. The obtained results underline the fact that the monocomponent emulsion ECEO shows antimicrobial activity, while EOEO and EBEO do not inhibit the development of the analyzed strains. In binary or tertiary emulsions E(BEO/CEO), E(CEO/OEO) and E(OEO/ BEO/CEO) the antimicrobial effect of clove oil is potentiated due to the synergism exerted by the chemical compounds of essential oils.
Quantitative, High-Throughput Assays for Proteolytic Degradation of Amylin
Authors: Suire Caitlin N. , Brizuela Monica K. , Leissring Malcolm A.
Published: November 2020

Amylin is a pancreatic peptide hormone that regulates glucose homeostasis but also aggregates to form islet amyloid in type-2 diabetes. Given its role in both health and disease, there is renewed interest in proteolytic degradation of amylin by insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) and other proteases. Here, we describe the development and detailed characterization of three novel assays for amylin degradation, two based on a fluoresceinated and biotinylated form of rodent amylin (fluorescein-rodent amylin-biotin, FrAB), which can be used for any amylin protease, and another based on an internally quenched fluorogenic substrate (FRET-based amylin, FRAM), which is more specific for IDE. The FrAB-based substrate can be used in a readily implemented fluorescence-based protocol or in a fluorescence polarization (FP)-based protocol that is more amenable to high-throughput screening (HTS), whereas the FRAM substrate has the advantage of permitting continuous monitoring of proteolytic activity. All three assays yield highly quantitative data and are resistant to DMSO, and the FRAM and FP-based FrAB assay are ideally suited to HTS applications.
Highly Stretchable and Flexible Melt Spun Thermoplastic Conductive Yarns for Smart Textiles
Authors: Islam G. M. Nazmul , Collie Stewart , Qasim Muhammad , Ali M. Azam
Published: November 2020

This study demonstrates a scalable fabrication process for producing biodegradable, highly stretchable and wearable melt spun thermoplastic polypropylene (PP), poly(lactic) acid (PLA), and composite (PP:PLA = 50:50) conductive yarns through a dip coating process. Polydopamine (PDA) treated and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) coated conductive PP, PLA, and PP/PLA yarns generated electric conductivity of 0.75 S/cm, 0.36 S/cm and 0.67 S/cm respectively. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the interactions among the functional groups of PP, PLA, PP/PLA, PDA, and PEDOT:PSS. The surface morphology of thermoplastic yarns was characterized by optical microscope and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The mechanical properties of yarns were also assessed, which include tensile strength (TS), Young’s modulus and elongation at break (%). These highly stretchable and flexible conductive PP, PLA, and PP/PLA yarns showed elasticity of 667%, 121% and 315% respectively. The thermal behavior of yarns was evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA). Wash stability of conductive yarns was also measured. Furthermore, ageing effect was determined to predict the shelf life of the conductive yarns. We believe that these highly stretchable and flexible PEDOT:PSS coated conductive PP, PLA, and PP/PLA composite yarns fabricated by this process can be integrated into textiles for strain sensing to monitor the tiny movement of human motion.
What Model of Nutrition Can Be Recommended to People Ending Their Professional Sports Career? An Analysis of the Mediterranean Diet and the CRON Diet in the Context of Former Athletes
Authors: Hołowko-Ziółek Joanna , Cięszczyk Paweł , Biliński Jarosław , Basak Grzegorz W. , Stachowska Ewa
Published: November 2020

Athletes who retire from their sporting career face an increase in body weight, leading to overweight or obesity. Simultaneously, a significant number of these athletes meet the criteria of metabolic syndrome. The available literature does not offer clearly defined standards of nutrition for the discussed group of people. In this situation, it seems advisable to develop different standards of dietary behavior typical of athletes finishing their sports careers. For this purpose, the study analyzed two types of diets: the Mediterranean diet and the Calorie Restriction with Optimal Nutrition (CRON) diet based on significant calorie restrictions. Both diets seem to meet the requirements of this group of people.
Perceived Stress Can Mediate the Associations between a Lifestyle Intervention and Fat and Fast Food Intakes
Authors: Chang Mei-Wei , Brown Roger , Wegener Duane T.
Published: November 2020

This secondary analysis study addressed a gap of knowledge: whether perceived stress reduction created by a lifestyle intervention might serve as a mediator for reducing fat and fast food intakes in low-income overweight or obese mothers of young children. This analysis included 338 low-income overweight or obese mothers of young children who completed a phone interview immediately after the 16-week lifestyle intervention. Valid surveys were used to assess perceived stress and fat and fast food intakes. Composite indicator structural equation modeling was performed to test the mediation effects. The overall effect of the intervention was not significant for fat intake but was significant for fast food intake (B = −0.53, p < 0.05). When assessing the potential role of perceived stress as a mediator, the indirect effects of the intervention on fat (B = −0.39, p < 0.01) and fast food (B = −0.27, p < 0.01) intakes were both significant. Future dietary intervention studies aimed to reduce fat and fast food intakes in low-income overweight or obese mothers of young children might consider including practical strategies aimed at reducing perceived stress.
Pattern and Causes of Oral and Maxillofacial Injuries Presented to a Tertiary Care Public Dental Hospital in Strictly Imposed COVID-19 Lockdown Scenario
Authors: Surendra Gayan , Perera Irosha , Ranasinghe Anura , Kumarapeli Vindya , Tham Rachel , Wickramaratne Pujitha
Published: November 2020

The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has indelibly impacted routine healthcare provision across the globe. Nevertheless, management of traumatic injuries has remained a priority patient care service of oral and maxillofacial (OMF) practice. This study aimed to explore the pattern and mechanisms of OMF injuries presenting at a major public dental hospital during a COVID-19 lockdown period in Sri Lanka. An enhanced OMF injury surveillance system was established at the National Dental Hospital (Teaching) Sri Lanka (NDHTSL) on 1 March 2020. OMF injury surveillance data from 1 March 2020 to 31 May 2020 were collated from the “enhanced injury surveillance form”. This period overlapped with the strictly imposed island-wide COVID-19 community lockdown. Pre-COVID-19 period (November 2017 to January 2020) OMF injury data were compared with this period. OMF injuries were categorized as hard tissue, extra-oral or intra-oral soft tissue, upper and middle face fractures and mandibular fractures. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact and Chi-square tests of significance. A total of 361 OMF injuries were identified among 208 patients who were predominantly males (71.6%); mean age was 24.95 ± 2.76 years. Injuries to gingivae and oral mucosa (26.9%) were the leading type, followed by extra-oral soft tissues (22.1%), periodontal injuries (20.7%) and hard tissue injuries (20.2%). Upper face and mandibular fractures accounted for 2.9% and 1.9%, respectively. Most patients sustained their injuries due to falls at their homes and surrounds. This was significantly increased compared to the pre-COVID-19 period (p = 0.0001). The significant increase in OMF injuries associated with falls around the home during the COVID-19 lockdown scenario in Sri Lanka compared to the pre-COVID-19 period may need further investigation in order to understand the how these injuries may be prevented.
Bypassing the Blood–Brain Barrier: Direct Intracranial Drug Delivery in Epilepsies
Authors: Gernert Manuela , Feja Malte
Published: November 2020

Epilepsies are common chronic neurological diseases characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures of central origin. The mainstay of treatment involves symptomatic suppression of seizures with systemically applied antiseizure drugs (ASDs). Systemic pharmacotherapies for epilepsies are facing two main challenges. First, adverse effects from (often life-long) systemic drug treatment are common, and second, about one-third of patients with epilepsy have seizures refractory to systemic pharmacotherapy. Especially the drug resistance in epilepsies remains an unmet clinical need despite the recent introduction of new ASDs. Apart from other hypotheses, epilepsy-induced alterations of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) are thought to prevent ASDs from entering the brain parenchyma in necessary amounts, thereby being involved in causing drug-resistant epilepsy. Although an invasive procedure, bypassing the BBB by targeted intracranial drug delivery is an attractive approach to circumvent BBB-associated drug resistance mechanisms and to lower the risk of systemic and neurologic adverse effects. Additionally, it offers the possibility of reaching higher local drug concentrations in appropriate target regions while minimizing them in other brain or peripheral areas, as well as using otherwise toxic drugs not suitable for systemic administration. In our review, we give an overview of experimental and clinical studies conducted on direct intracranial drug delivery in epilepsies. We also discuss challenges associated with intracranial pharmacotherapy for epilepsies.
Comparative Study of the Structural Properties, Color, Bioactive Compounds Content and Antioxidant Capacity of Aerated Gelatin Gels Enriched with Cryoconcentrated Blueberry Juice during Storage
Authors: Casas-Forero Nidia , Orellana-Palma Patricio , Petzold Guillermo
Published: November 2020

Cryoconcentrated blueberry juice (CBJ) was incorporated into aerated gelatin gel and the effects on the mechanical properties, phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity (AA) were evaluated at day 1 and day 28 under refrigerated storage. At day 1, 8 g of gelatin gel and 40 g of CBJ (called M5) exhibited a soft texture and heterogeneous and non-spherical small bubbles, with values close to 10.5, 8.0 and 7.1 N, for hardness, gumminess and chewiness, respectively. M5 presented an increase of approximately 1.7, 1.9 and 1.9, and 1.2, 1.8, 2.1 and 1.3 times in comparison to the other samples, for total polyphenol, anthocyanin and flavonoid contents, and individual phenolic compounds, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assays, respectively. At day 28, the samples showed a weakening of the 3D network, with high degradation of phenolic compounds and AA due to the oxidation, polymerization and syneresis. Therefore, CBJ might be an interesting functional ingredient to add to (aerated and non-aerated) gelatin gel without affecting its properties, and thus different food products with high nutritional values and without added artificial sweeteners could be developed. Additionally, the gelatin gel/CBJ combinations might be suitable for additive manufacturing as a coating of food matrices.
Contingency Management and Supply Chain Performance in Korea: A COVID-19 Pandemic Approach
Authors: Oh Segu , Moon Hee Cheol , Zhong Yongping
Published: November 2020

Unexpected incidents are driving global supply chains to the brink of collapse. To effectively manage contingency events like the COVID-19 pandemic and improve operational performance, factors such as information technology (IT), relational competencies, cooperation with supply chain partners and integration of supply chain systems that contribute to cooperation are essential. This study found that IT and relational competencies positively influence the integration of supply chain systems, and relational competencies have a stronger implication on supply chain integration and collaboration. In addition, supply chain collaboration, strengthened by supply chain integration, positively affects contingency management. Finally, contingency management positively influences operational performance. In this study, we adopted partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method in the analysis with 102 surveys collected from business managers. Through the evaluation of determinants of contingency management and supply chain performance, this study widens the theoretical base of supply chain management and provides managers with optimal ways to build a more resilient supply chain system to cope with unexpected incidents. Consequently, with collaboration-based contingency management, companies can solve problems properly and reduce additional loss, which will enhance operational performance and enable sustainable business success.
Using Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis to Select Waste to Energy Technology for a Mega City: The Case of Moscow
Authors: Kurbatova Anna , Abu-Qdais Hani Ahmed
Published: November 2020

In a mega city like Moscow, both municipal solid waste management and energy systems are managed in an unsustainable way. Therefore, utilizing the municipal solid waste to generate energy will help the city in achieving sustainability by decreasing greenhouse gases emissions and the need for land to dispose the solid waste. In this study, various Waste to Energy (WTE) options were evaluated using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to select the most appropriate technology for the Moscow region. The developed AHP model consists of 4 levels, which assessed four WTE technologies, namely landfill biogas, anaerobic digestion, incineration, and refuse derived fuel (RDF), using four criteria and nine subcriteria. The pairwise comparison was achieved by soliciting 16 experts’ opinions. The priority weights of various criteria, subcriteria, and alternatives were determined using Expert Choice Software. The developed model indicated that landfill biogas is the preferred option with a global weight of 0.448, followed by the anaerobic digestion with a weight of 0.320 and incineration with a weight of 0.138, while the least preferred technology is the RDF with a weight of 0.094. Sensitivity analysis has shown that the priorities of WTE alternatives are sensitive for the environmental and technical criteria. The developed AHP model can be used by the decision makers in Moscow in the field of WTE.
Detection of Ebola Virus Antibodies in Fecal Samples of Great Apes in Gabon
Authors: Mombo Illich M. , Fritz Matthieu , Becquart Pierre , Liegeois Florian , Elguero Eric , Boundenga Larson , Mebaley Telstar N. , Prugnolle Franck , Maganga Gael D. , Leroy Eric M.
Published: November 2020

Based on a large study conducted on wild great ape fecal samples collected in regions of Gabon where previous human outbreaks of Ebola virus disease have occurred between 1994 and 2002, we provide evidence for prevalence of Zaire ebolavirus (EBOV)-specific antibodies of 3.9% (immunoglobulin G (IgG)) and 3.5% (immunoglobulin M (IgM)) in chimpanzees and 8.8% (IgG) and 2.4% (IgM) in gorillas. Importantly, we observed a high local prevalence (31.2%) of anti-EBOV IgG antibodies in gorilla samples. This high local rate of positivity among wild great apes raises the question of a spatially and temporally localized increase in EBOV exposure risk and the role that can be played by these animals as sentinels of the virus’s spread or reemergence in a given area.