Nano-zinc oxides(ZnO)demonstrate remarkable antibacterial properties.To further enhance the corrosion resistance and antibacterial efficiency of magnesium alloy micro-arc oxidation(MAO)coatings,this study investigates...Nano-zinc oxides(ZnO)demonstrate remarkable antibacterial properties.To further enhance the corrosion resistance and antibacterial efficiency of magnesium alloy micro-arc oxidation(MAO)coatings,this study investigates the preparation of ZnO-containing micro-arc oxidation coatings with dual functionality by incorporating nano-ZnO into MAO electrolyte.The influence of varying ZnO concentrations on the microstructure,corrosion resistance,and antibacterial properties of the coating was examined through microstructure analysis,immersion tests,electrochemical experiments,and antibacterial assays.The findings revealed that the addition of nano-ZnO significantly enhanced the corrosion resistance of the MAO-coated alloy.Specifically,when the ZnO concentration in the electrolyte was 5 g/L,the corrosion rate was more than ten times lower compared to the MAO coatings without ZnO.Moreover,the antibacterial efficacy of ZnO+MAO coating,prepared with a ZnO concentration of 5 g/L,surpassed 95%after 24 h of co-culturing with Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus).The nano-ZnO+MAO-coated alloy exhibited exceptional degradation resistance,corrosion resistance,and antibacterial effectiveness.展开更多
In-utero exposure to Zika virus(ZIKV)could lead to miscarriage,preterm birth and congenital Zika syndrome.This study aimed at estimating the burden of ZIKV and Dengue virus(DENV)infections among pregnant women in Boju...In-utero exposure to Zika virus(ZIKV)could lead to miscarriage,preterm birth and congenital Zika syndrome.This study aimed at estimating the burden of ZIKV and Dengue virus(DENV)infections among pregnant women in Bojude,Nigeria.A total of 200 blood samples were collected from pregnant women between February and April 2022.Using the updated CDC guidelines for the diagnosis of ZIKV infections,including ELISA and microneutralization test(MNT),we found that 16.5%of participants were positive for ZIKV IgM,10%were positive for IgG,and 23%had nAb in their serum.Among the 46 ZIKV nAb-positive women,52.2%and 10.9%were recent and previous ZIKV infections,respectively,while 6.5%had previous DENV infections.Although no recent DENV infection was detected,recent and previous ZIKV/DENV co-infections were 13.0%and 17.4%,respectively.Two participants had recent secondary ZIKV infections,while 39.1%had prolonged lifelong immunity.Recent ZIKV infection rates were significantly higher among sexually active females aged 20–29 years than other age groups,with the highest risk observed in the first trimester of pregnancy.In addition,the grand-multiparous women are at higher risk of ZIKV infections than other categories.Monotypic recent,secondary and past ZIKV infections,as well as DENV and ZIKV co-infections,were detected in both the asymptomatic and symptomatic pregnant women.These findings highlight that ZIKV infection is prevalent among pregnant women in Nigeria and underscore the associated risk factors,providing evidence-based information on the burden of ZIKV infections in DENV-endemic region.展开更多
Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS)was used to analyze the pentacyclic triterpenoid distributions,specifically hopane and oleanane fingerprints,in 24 crude oil samples from the Niger Delta depobelts,with the a...Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS)was used to analyze the pentacyclic triterpenoid distributions,specifically hopane and oleanane fingerprints,in 24 crude oil samples from the Niger Delta depobelts,with the aim of defining the petroleum system,filling history,and the age of source rock producing these oils.The results indicate that the Niger Delta oils belong to a single fluvio-deltaic petroleum system,reflecting similar source organic facies and depositional environments.Geochemical parameters,including C29/C30hopane ratios,oleanane index,Ts/Tm,(Ts/(Ts+Tm)),moretane/C30hopane ratios,and C3222S/(22S+22R)ratios,suggest oxic conditions during source rock deposition and thermal maturity of the oils.The presence of terrigenous organic matter and complex filling history are also evident and influenced by multiple phases of sedimentation,and petroleum generation.A comparative plot of geologic time(Paleogene-Neogene age)and oleanane percentage composition show that the crude oils are constrained to the chronostratigraphic ages of their respective depobelts,demonstrating the potential of oleanane-derived parameters for relative dating of hydrocarbon sources,complementing traditional index fossil methods.展开更多
A field trial to evaluate the growth and nutrient uptake of cocoa intercropped with coconut was conducted in Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria(CRIN)Headquarters,Idi-Ayunre,Ibadan,Oyo State between 2019 and 2022.Ther...A field trial to evaluate the growth and nutrient uptake of cocoa intercropped with coconut was conducted in Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria(CRIN)Headquarters,Idi-Ayunre,Ibadan,Oyo State between 2019 and 2022.There were four treatments comprising of cocoa sole,cocoa/plantain,cocoa/coconut and cocoa/coconut/plantain intercrop.The experimental design was Randomized Complete Block(RCB)replicated three times.Result obtained showed that cocoa/plantain was significantly higher(p<0.05)than all other treatments in all parameters considered and closely followed by cocoa/coconut,then cocoa sole with cocoa/plantain/coconut giving the least performance.The same trend was observed in the nutrient uptake.It was also observed in the trial that the two crops:cocoa and coconut did not show any deleterious effect on their growth when intercropped together.This showed that the two crops are compatible when grown on the same piece of land.Therefore,cocoa/coconut intercrop could be recommended to cocoa farmers in south west Nigeria to increase their revenue generation when coconut starts bearing fruit instead of sole planting of cocoa.展开更多
This study evaluates the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process(FAHP)as a multi-criteria decision(MCD)support tool for selecting appropriate additive manufacturing(AM)techniques that align with cleaner production and envi...This study evaluates the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process(FAHP)as a multi-criteria decision(MCD)support tool for selecting appropriate additive manufacturing(AM)techniques that align with cleaner production and environmental sustainability.The FAHP model was validated using an example of the production of aircraft components(specifically fuselage)employing AM technologies such as Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing(WAAM),laser powder bed fusion(L-PBF),Binder Jetting(BJ),Selective Laser Sintering(SLS),and Laser Metal Deposition(LMD).The selection criteria prioritized eco-friendly manufacturing considerations,including the quality and properties of the final product(e.g.,surface finish,high strength,and corrosion resistance),service and functional requirements,weight reduction for improved energy efficiency(lightweight structures),and environmental responsibility.Sustainability metrics,such as cost-effectiveness,material efficiency,waste minimization,and environmental impact,are central to the evaluation process.A computer-aided modeling approach was also used to simulate the performance of aluminum(AA7075 T6),steel(304),and titanium alloy(Ti6Al4V)for fuselage development.The results demonstrate that MCD approaches such as FAHP can effectively guide the selection of AM technologies that meet functional and technical requirements while minimizing environmental degradation footprints.Furthermore,the aluminumalloy outperformed the other materials investigated in the simulation with the lowest stress concentration and least deformation.This study contributes to advancing cleaner production practices by providing a decision-making framework for sustainable and eco-friendly manufacturing,enabling manufacturers to adopt AM technologies that promote environmental responsibility and sustainable development,while maintaining product quality and performance.展开更多
In the process of protecting ferrous materials,aluminum coating usually forms a dense oxide film on the surface of the iron-based alloy.However,the capacity of the sacrificial anode is rather insufficient.In order to ...In the process of protecting ferrous materials,aluminum coating usually forms a dense oxide film on the surface of the iron-based alloy.However,the capacity of the sacrificial anode is rather insufficient.In order to solve this problem,the microstructure and electrochemical corrosion properties of Al-8Si-3Fe-xIn alloy under low chlorine conditions were studied.The results show that indium(In)dissolves to form In^(3+)and In^(+)reverse plating on the surface of the bare substrate to form a passivation film defect.When the In content is high,the segregated In forms an activation point in the form of a cathode phase.In activatesτ_(6)phase to form a micro-couple,which improves the non-uniform corrosion.The In-containing corrosion products at the phase boundary hinder the diffusion of Cl−.With an increase of In content,the self-corrosion potential(Ecorr)of the alloy shifts negatively,and the self-corrosion current density(Jcorr)decreases from 6.477μA/cm^(2)to 1.352μA/cm^(2),and then increases gradually.However,when the In content is 0.1%,the Ecorr of the alloy changes from−0.824 V to−0.932 V,and the Jcorr decreases from 6.477μA/cm^(2)to 4.699μA/cm^(2),suggesting that the use of sacrificial anode will give the best effect.展开更多
This study was conducted to investigate the properties of Pr^(3+)-Dy^(3+)doped Zn_(2)Y-type hexaferrite for potential technological applications.X-ray diffraction(XRD),Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR)and ...This study was conducted to investigate the properties of Pr^(3+)-Dy^(3+)doped Zn_(2)Y-type hexaferrite for potential technological applications.X-ray diffraction(XRD),Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR)and field-emission scanning electron microscopy(FESEM)were used to analyze structural properties.The crystallite size in the synthesized samples varies between 57.54 and 68.57 nm.The vibrational bands at 400 and 600 cm^(-1),common to all hexaferrites,were confirmed through FTIR.The FESEM analysis reveals an agglomeration of magnetic grains and a decrease in the average grain size from 1.24 to1.06μm.The M-H loops show that,with x values of 0.0,0.1,and 0.2,the saturation magnetization is determined to be 34.76,34.23,and 32.52 emu/g,respectively.The corresponding coercivity values are21.24,30.39,and 33.99 Oe.UV-visible spectroscopy using Tauc theory reveals an increase in the optical band gap from 2.32 to 2.50 eV,indicating a tunable energy band structure by incorporating Pr^(3+)-Dy^(3+)ions.The dielectric constant increases,whereas AC conductivity decreases with increased Pr^(3+)-Dy^(3+)concentration.The obtained results suggest the potential suitability of these materials for various technological applications.展开更多
The Cretaceous Koum Basin is a rift-related half-graben in northern Cameroon,which constitutes a portion of the Yola Arm of the Upper Benue Trough.This study presents the first comprehensive dataset combining mineral-...The Cretaceous Koum Basin is a rift-related half-graben in northern Cameroon,which constitutes a portion of the Yola Arm of the Upper Benue Trough.This study presents the first comprehensive dataset combining mineral-ogical,bulk-rock geochemical,and stable C-H-O isotopic data for dark-gray,finegrained mudstones from the basin,providing new insights into its sediment source,paleoenvironment,and geodynamic setting.The mudstones primarily consist of phyllosilicates(~8.6%),feldspars(~30.5%),carbonates(~13.7%),and minor iron oxides(~2.7%),with vermiculite,illite,and kaolinite as the main clay minerals.The presence of analcime,ankerite,and dolomite suggests low-grade metamorphism and/or hydrothermal alteration.Fe_(2)O_(3)/K_(2)O(1.52-6.40)and SiO_(2)/Al_(2)O_(3)(2.97-4.68)ratios classify the mudstones as compositionally immature shales(ICV~1.64)with low-moderate chemical weathering(CIA~56.35;PIA~59.74;R^(3+)/R^(3+)+R^(2+)+M^(+)~0.51).Trace element ratios(Th/Sc~1.70,Zr/Sc~1.33,La/Sc~6.30,La/Th~4.14)indicate an intermediate igneous provenance from a continental crustal source.Paleoenviron-mental proxies suggest deposition in a dynamic basin environment marked by fluctuating redox(C org/P:0.21-178.34)and salinity(Sr/Ba:0.34-3.25;N-values:48-35.92)conditions,ranging from oxic to anoxic and brackish to saline.Major element data(SiO_(2) vs.Al_(2)O_(3)+K_(2)O+Na_(2)O)indicate a semi-arid regime,while Paleoclimatic indicators such as Sr/Cu(1.88-37.47)and C-values(0.12-0.93)suggests alter-nating humid and arid conditions.Notably,stable isotope data,reported here for the first time in the Koum Basin,reveal a predominantly terrestrial,fluvial-deltaic C_(3) plant source for organic carbon(δ^(13)C-25.2‰ to -35.2‰)and complex fluid-rock interactions involving meteoric and magmatic-metamorphic fluids under a warm,equatorial climate(δ^(18)O+3.6‰to +24.9‰,δ^(2)H-104‰ to-50‰).The combined mineralogical,geochemical,and isotopic data point to deposition in a tectonically active continental arc setting,with contributions from ocean island arc and passive margin sources.展开更多
The advent of civilization has made humans dependent on plants for food and medicine,leading to the intensification of agricultural production.The intense cultivation of crops has resulted in the depletion of availabl...The advent of civilization has made humans dependent on plants for food and medicine,leading to the intensification of agricultural production.The intense cultivation of crops has resulted in the depletion of available nutrients from soil,thereby demanding the application of excess nutrients to soil to improve yield.Thus,mineral fertilizer discovery and application have,in many ways,contributed greatly to meeting global food demands.However,aside from the positive effects of mineral fertilizers,their excessive application to soil produces large amounts of pollutants that affect environmental sustainability.This necessitates the study of the major mineral fertilizer elements(nitrogen(N),phosphorus(P),and potassium(K)),the forms in which they are applied to soil,and their chemistry/reactions in soil.Here,we reviewed the forms of different N,P,and K mineral fertilizers to provide current knowledge on their constituents,the chemistry of N,P,and K in soil to understand the reactions they undertake in soil,the efficient methods of fertilizer application for environmental sustainability,the effects of mineral fertilizer loss to the environment,and improved fertilization technologies for environmental sustainability.Nanofertilizers are a promising technology for sustainable agricultural production and are discussed in detail in this review.展开更多
The Cretaceous Mamu Formation coal samples located within the Northern Anambra Basin were collected, analysed and interpreted using multivariate statistical approach to determine the major, trace and rare elements ass...The Cretaceous Mamu Formation coal samples located within the Northern Anambra Basin were collected, analysed and interpreted using multivariate statistical approach to determine the major, trace and rare elements association with a view to determine the source of the terrestrial rocks, palaeoweathering/climatic conditions and tectonic setting. The dominant oxides such as SiO2, A12O3, Fe2O3, TiO2 and CaO were identified in the coal to suggest terrigenous origin. The ratio of SiO2/Al2O3 of 4.8 suggests that the coal was formed from low land peat associated with freshwater continental marine or blackish water with low salinity as indicated by Sr/Ba and CaO + MgO/K2O + Na2。ratios. The major oxides also revealed stable condition of deposition, low degree of tectonic setting but constant subsidence in the basin. The condition of deposition was acidic in nature as indicated by TiO2/Zr plot. Based on the abundance of Zr, Zn, Ba, Ni, Co, Sr, V, and Y, moderate salinity, sub-oxic to oxic bottom water condition was prevalent and also indication of marine influence. Based on the ratios of La/Yb;La/Sm and Gd/Yb, LREE has higher enrichment than HREE. Humid climatic conditions were observed at the coal formation stage while weak laterization to kaolinization was also evidence.展开更多
The positive ecological interaction between gap formation and natural regeneration has been examined but little research has been carried out on the effects of gaps on natural regeneration in forests under different i...The positive ecological interaction between gap formation and natural regeneration has been examined but little research has been carried out on the effects of gaps on natural regeneration in forests under different intensities of disturbance.This study evaluates the composition,diversity,regeneration density and abundance of natural regeneration of tree species in gaps in undisturbed,intermittently disturbed,and disturbed forest sites.Bia Tano Forest Reserve in Ghana was the study area and three gaps each were selected in the three forest site categories.Ten circular subsampling areas of 1 m2 were delineated at 2 m spacing along north,south,east,and west transects within individual gaps.Data on natural regeneration<350 cm height were gathered.The results show that the intensity of disturbance was disproportional to gap size.Species diversity differed significantly between undisturbed and disturbed sites and,also between intermittently disturbed and disturbed sites for Simpson’s(1-D),Equitability(J),and Berger-Parker(B-P)indices.However,there was no significant difference among forest sites for Shannon diversity(H)and Margalef richness(MI)indices.Tree species composition on the sites differed.Regeneration density on the disturbed site was significantly higher than on the two other sites.Greater abundance and density of shade-dependent species on all sites identified them as opportunistic replacements of gap-dependent pioneers.Pioneer species giving way to shade tolerant species is a natural process,thus make them worst variant in gap regeneration.展开更多
For the purpose of overcoming the lack of durability problems associated with superhydrophobic surfaces which hitherto has limited their use;we prepared multi-stimuli wettability response coatings using a mixture of f...For the purpose of overcoming the lack of durability problems associated with superhydrophobic surfaces which hitherto has limited their use;we prepared multi-stimuli wettability response coatings using a mixture of fluorocarbon resin and urea-formaldehyde microcapsules filled with fluorosilane via interfacial polymerization process.The microcapsules are of good thermal stability and can be triggered to release their core content on exposure to atmospheric conditions resulting in the increase in the water contact angle from 97°to 151°.The prepared coatings gave good adhesion strength,and also showed an increase in the hydrophobic property after undergoing scratch,solvent and UV accelerated aging test.In addition,they offered good self-healing of the hydrophobic property after an initial loss due to alkaline immersion and oxygen plasma etching.The electrochemical measurements revealed a remarkable impedance recovery and suppression of corrosion activities,suggesting them to be a potential candidate material for corrosion protection.展开更多
AIM:To comparatively evaluate PCR and other diagnostic methods (the rapid urease test and/or culture) in order to determine which of the three PCR methods (ureA,glmM and 26-kDa,SSA gene) was most appropriate in the di...AIM:To comparatively evaluate PCR and other diagnostic methods (the rapid urease test and/or culture) in order to determine which of the three PCR methods (ureA,glmM and 26-kDa,SSA gene) was most appropriate in the diagnosis of Helicobacterpylori(Hpylori) infection and also to evaluate the detection of a putative virulence marker of H pylori,the cage,gene,by PCR in biopsy specimens. METHODS:One hundred and eighty-nine biopsy specimens were collected from 63 patients (three biopsies each) undergoing upper gastroduodenal endoscopy for various dyspeptic symptoms.The PCR methods used to detect H pylori DNA directly from biopsies were the glmM,26-kDa, ureA and then cagA was used to compare the culture technique and CLO for urease with the culture technique being used as the gold standard. RESULTS:Thirty-five percent of the biopsies were positive for H pylori DNA using the 3 PCR methods,while 68% of these were positive for the cagA gene.Twenty-four percent of the biopsies were negative for H pylori DNA in all PCR methods screened.The remaining 41% were either positive for ureA gene only,glmM only,26-kDa only,or ureA+glmM, ureA+26-kDa,glmM+26-kDa.Out of the 35% positive biopsies,41% and 82% were positive by culture and CLO respectively,while all negative biopsies were also negative by culture and cagA.Cag A+ infection was also predominantly found in H pylori DNA of the biopsies irrespective of the clinical diagnosis. CONCLUSION:This method is useful for correctly identifying infections caused by H pylori and can be easily applied in our laboratory for diagnostic purposes.展开更多
Heat stress(HS)is an important environmental stress factor affecting poultry production on a global scale.With the rise in ambient temperature and increasing effects of global warming,it becomes pertinent to understan...Heat stress(HS)is an important environmental stress factor affecting poultry production on a global scale.With the rise in ambient temperature and increasing effects of global warming,it becomes pertinent to understand the effects of HS on poultry production and the strategies that can be adopted to mitigate its detrimental impacts on the performance,health,welfare,immunity,and survival of birds.Amino acids(AAs)have been increasingly adopted as nutritional modifiers in animals to ameliorate the adverse effects of HS.They are essential for protein synthesis,growth,maintenance,reproduction,immunity,stress response,and whole-body homeostasis.However,HS tends to adversely affect the availability,transport,absorption,and utilization of these AAs.Studies have investigated the provision of these AAs to poultry during HS conditions,and variable findings have been reported.Taurine,L-theanine,and L-citrulline are non-essential amino acids that are increasingly gaining attention as nutritional supplements in HS animals.Similarly,betaine is an amino acid derivative that possesses favorable biological properties which contributes to its role as a functional additive during HS.Of particular note,taurine is negligible in plants,while betaine,L-theanine,and L-citrulline can be found in selected plants.These nutrients are barely found in feed ingredients,but their supply has been shown to elicit important physiological roles including anti-stress effects,anti-oxidative,anti-inflammatory,gut promoting,and immunomodulatory functions.The present review provides information on the use of these nutritionally and physiologically beneficial nutrients as functional additives to poultry diets during HS conditions.Presently,although several studies have reported on the positive effects of these additives in human and murine studies,however,there is limited information regarding their utilization during heat stress in poultry nutrition.Therefore,this review aims to expound on the functional properties of these nutrients,their potentials for HS alleviation,and to stimulate further researches on their biological roles in poultry nutrition.展开更多
In this study, we present systematic petrological, geochemical, LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb ages and Nd isotopic data for the A-type granites and syenites from Suizhou-Zaoyang region. The results show that the peralkaline A...In this study, we present systematic petrological, geochemical, LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb ages and Nd isotopic data for the A-type granites and syenites from Suizhou-Zaoyang region. The results show that the peralkaline A-type granites and syenites were episodically emplaced in Suizhou-Zaoyang region between 450±3 and 441±7 Ma which corresponds to Late Ordovician and Early Silurian periods, respectively. Petrologically, the syenite-peralkaline granite association comprises of nephefine normative-syenite and alkaline granite in Guanzishan and quartz normative syenite and alkafine granite in Huangyangshan. The syenite-granite associations are ferroan to alkali in composition. They depict characteristics of typical OIB （oceanic island basalts） derived A-type granites in multi-elements primitive normalized diagram and Ybffa vs. Y/Nb as well as Ce/Nb vs. Y/Nb binary plots. Significant depletion in Ba, Sr, P, Ti and Eu indicates fractionation of feldspars, biotite, amphiboles and Ti-rich augite. The values of eNd（t） in Guanzishan nepheline syenite and alkaline granite are ＋1.81 and ＋2.26, respectively and the calculated two-stage model age for these rocks are 1 040 and 1 003 Ma, respectively. On the other hand, the Huangyangshan alkaline granite has eNd（t） values ranging from ＋2.61 to ＋3.46 and a relatively younger two-stage Nd model age values ranging from 906 to 975 Ma, respectively. Based on these data, we inferred that the Guanzishan nepheline syenites and granites were formed from fractional crystallization of OIB-like basic magmas derived from upweliing of metasomatized lithospheric mantle. The Huangyangshan quartz syenite and granite on the other hand, were formed from similar magmas through fractional crystallization with low input from the ancient crustal rocks. Typically, the rocks exhibit Al-type granite affinity and classified as within plate granites associated with the Ordovician crustal extension and the Silurian rifting.展开更多
Two novel 4,5-secoeudesmane sesquiterpenoids, oxyphyllones A （1） and B （2） were isolated from the fruits of Alpinia oxyphylla. Their structures were established by spectroscopic methods including 1D and 21） NMR s...Two novel 4,5-secoeudesmane sesquiterpenoids, oxyphyllones A （1） and B （2） were isolated from the fruits of Alpinia oxyphylla. Their structures were established by spectroscopic methods including 1D and 21） NMR spectra. These two compounds are the first example of naturally occurring sesquiterpenoids with a 4,5-secoeudesmane skeleton in the family of Zingiberaceae and oxyphyllone A （1） is the first 4,5-secoeudesmane type of 13-norsesquiterpenoid. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited no cytotoxicities against three cancer cell lines at 10 μg/mL. ？ 2009 Ning Hua Tan. Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Chinese Chemical Society. All rights reserved.展开更多
In an effort to find suitable wood from natural forest to meet the demand for veneer products, the yield and tensile strength of veneers produced from Brachystegia nigerica were investigated. Two trees of B. nigerica ...In an effort to find suitable wood from natural forest to meet the demand for veneer products, the yield and tensile strength of veneers produced from Brachystegia nigerica were investigated. Two trees of B. nigerica were separately selected from 10 different natural forest zones while two logs were obtained from each tree. The logs were debarked and steamed in a vat prior to rotary peeling and slicing for veneer production. The optimum steam temperature was determined by considering different temperatures： 50℃, 60℃, 70℃, 80℃ and 90℃ for 24 h. Thereafter, optimum steam time was determined at the optimum temperature by considering durations of 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. The average taper of 0.75 mm per 1.0 m length was recorded for B. nigerica, indicating that the logs were reasonably cylindrical; thereby its logs are good for the production of veneer. The yield ranged from 44% to 61% with an average of 52% of the log input. The tensile strength of the veneer was tested perpendicular to grain and both peeled and sliced veneers had the highest tensile strength between 70℃ and 90℃, suggesting that softening of wood polymers, especially lignin, is between 70℃ and 90℃. The optimum temperature and time for veneer production are 70℃ and 48 h, respectively. Commercial production of veneer from B. nigerica is feasible based on the yield and mechanical properties of the obtained veneer, thereby encouraging the expansion of the scope of its utilization.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the phenolic compounds composition and the inhibitory activity of Mangifera indica(M.indica) and Mucuna urens(M.urens) seeds extracts against some key enzymes(-amylase,-glucosidasc and aldose ...Objective:To investigate the phenolic compounds composition and the inhibitory activity of Mangifera indica(M.indica) and Mucuna urens(M.urens) seeds extracts against some key enzymes(-amylase,-glucosidasc and aldose reductase) implicated in the pathology and complications of type 2 diabetes in vitro.Methods:Reverse phase chromatographic quantification of the major flavonoids and phenolic acids in the seeds extracts was carried out using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection.The inhibitory activities of the seeds extracts against-amylase and-glucosidase were estimated using soluble starch and p-nitrophenylglucopyranosidc as their respective substrates.Inhibition of aldose reductase activity by the extracts was assayed using partially purified lens homogenate of normal male rat as source of enzyme;inhibition of Fe^(2+)-induced lipid peroxidation by extracts was tested in rat pancreas homogenate.Results:The chromatography result revealed that extracts of both seeds had appreciable levels of some major flavonoids and phenolic acids of pharmacological importance,including gallic acid,chlorogenic acid,caffeic acid,ellagic acid,catechin,rutin,quercitrin.quercetin and kaempferol.Extracts of both seeds effectively inhibited-amylase,-glucosidase and aldose reductase activities in a dose-dependent manner,having inhibitory preference for these enzymes in the order of aldose reductase>-glucosidase>-amylase.With lower half-maximal inhibitory concentrations(IC50)against-amylase,-glucosidase,and aldose reductase,M.indica had stronger inhibitory potency against these enzymes than M.urens.Extracts of both seeds also inhibited Fe2+-induced lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent pattern,with M.indica being more potent than M.urens.Conclusions:The results obtained provide support for a possible use of M.indica and M.urens seeds in managing hyperglycemia and preventing the complications associated with it in type 2diabetes.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52001034)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2023M731677)the Postgraduate Research&Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province(No.KYCX23_3032).
文摘Nano-zinc oxides(ZnO)demonstrate remarkable antibacterial properties.To further enhance the corrosion resistance and antibacterial efficiency of magnesium alloy micro-arc oxidation(MAO)coatings,this study investigates the preparation of ZnO-containing micro-arc oxidation coatings with dual functionality by incorporating nano-ZnO into MAO electrolyte.The influence of varying ZnO concentrations on the microstructure,corrosion resistance,and antibacterial properties of the coating was examined through microstructure analysis,immersion tests,electrochemical experiments,and antibacterial assays.The findings revealed that the addition of nano-ZnO significantly enhanced the corrosion resistance of the MAO-coated alloy.Specifically,when the ZnO concentration in the electrolyte was 5 g/L,the corrosion rate was more than ten times lower compared to the MAO coatings without ZnO.Moreover,the antibacterial efficacy of ZnO+MAO coating,prepared with a ZnO concentration of 5 g/L,surpassed 95%after 24 h of co-culturing with Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus).The nano-ZnO+MAO-coated alloy exhibited exceptional degradation resistance,corrosion resistance,and antibacterial effectiveness.
文摘In-utero exposure to Zika virus(ZIKV)could lead to miscarriage,preterm birth and congenital Zika syndrome.This study aimed at estimating the burden of ZIKV and Dengue virus(DENV)infections among pregnant women in Bojude,Nigeria.A total of 200 blood samples were collected from pregnant women between February and April 2022.Using the updated CDC guidelines for the diagnosis of ZIKV infections,including ELISA and microneutralization test(MNT),we found that 16.5%of participants were positive for ZIKV IgM,10%were positive for IgG,and 23%had nAb in their serum.Among the 46 ZIKV nAb-positive women,52.2%and 10.9%were recent and previous ZIKV infections,respectively,while 6.5%had previous DENV infections.Although no recent DENV infection was detected,recent and previous ZIKV/DENV co-infections were 13.0%and 17.4%,respectively.Two participants had recent secondary ZIKV infections,while 39.1%had prolonged lifelong immunity.Recent ZIKV infection rates were significantly higher among sexually active females aged 20–29 years than other age groups,with the highest risk observed in the first trimester of pregnancy.In addition,the grand-multiparous women are at higher risk of ZIKV infections than other categories.Monotypic recent,secondary and past ZIKV infections,as well as DENV and ZIKV co-infections,were detected in both the asymptomatic and symptomatic pregnant women.These findings highlight that ZIKV infection is prevalent among pregnant women in Nigeria and underscore the associated risk factors,providing evidence-based information on the burden of ZIKV infections in DENV-endemic region.
文摘Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS)was used to analyze the pentacyclic triterpenoid distributions,specifically hopane and oleanane fingerprints,in 24 crude oil samples from the Niger Delta depobelts,with the aim of defining the petroleum system,filling history,and the age of source rock producing these oils.The results indicate that the Niger Delta oils belong to a single fluvio-deltaic petroleum system,reflecting similar source organic facies and depositional environments.Geochemical parameters,including C29/C30hopane ratios,oleanane index,Ts/Tm,(Ts/(Ts+Tm)),moretane/C30hopane ratios,and C3222S/(22S+22R)ratios,suggest oxic conditions during source rock deposition and thermal maturity of the oils.The presence of terrigenous organic matter and complex filling history are also evident and influenced by multiple phases of sedimentation,and petroleum generation.A comparative plot of geologic time(Paleogene-Neogene age)and oleanane percentage composition show that the crude oils are constrained to the chronostratigraphic ages of their respective depobelts,demonstrating the potential of oleanane-derived parameters for relative dating of hydrocarbon sources,complementing traditional index fossil methods.
文摘A field trial to evaluate the growth and nutrient uptake of cocoa intercropped with coconut was conducted in Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria(CRIN)Headquarters,Idi-Ayunre,Ibadan,Oyo State between 2019 and 2022.There were four treatments comprising of cocoa sole,cocoa/plantain,cocoa/coconut and cocoa/coconut/plantain intercrop.The experimental design was Randomized Complete Block(RCB)replicated three times.Result obtained showed that cocoa/plantain was significantly higher(p<0.05)than all other treatments in all parameters considered and closely followed by cocoa/coconut,then cocoa sole with cocoa/plantain/coconut giving the least performance.The same trend was observed in the nutrient uptake.It was also observed in the trial that the two crops:cocoa and coconut did not show any deleterious effect on their growth when intercropped together.This showed that the two crops are compatible when grown on the same piece of land.Therefore,cocoa/coconut intercrop could be recommended to cocoa farmers in south west Nigeria to increase their revenue generation when coconut starts bearing fruit instead of sole planting of cocoa.
文摘This study evaluates the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process(FAHP)as a multi-criteria decision(MCD)support tool for selecting appropriate additive manufacturing(AM)techniques that align with cleaner production and environmental sustainability.The FAHP model was validated using an example of the production of aircraft components(specifically fuselage)employing AM technologies such as Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing(WAAM),laser powder bed fusion(L-PBF),Binder Jetting(BJ),Selective Laser Sintering(SLS),and Laser Metal Deposition(LMD).The selection criteria prioritized eco-friendly manufacturing considerations,including the quality and properties of the final product(e.g.,surface finish,high strength,and corrosion resistance),service and functional requirements,weight reduction for improved energy efficiency(lightweight structures),and environmental responsibility.Sustainability metrics,such as cost-effectiveness,material efficiency,waste minimization,and environmental impact,are central to the evaluation process.A computer-aided modeling approach was also used to simulate the performance of aluminum(AA7075 T6),steel(304),and titanium alloy(Ti6Al4V)for fuselage development.The results demonstrate that MCD approaches such as FAHP can effectively guide the selection of AM technologies that meet functional and technical requirements while minimizing environmental degradation footprints.Furthermore,the aluminumalloy outperformed the other materials investigated in the simulation with the lowest stress concentration and least deformation.This study contributes to advancing cleaner production practices by providing a decision-making framework for sustainable and eco-friendly manufacturing,enabling manufacturers to adopt AM technologies that promote environmental responsibility and sustainable development,while maintaining product quality and performance.
基金Projects(52171003,52271005)supported by the National Science and Technology Major Project of ChinaProject(KYCX23_3032)supported by the Postgraduate Research&Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province,China。
文摘In the process of protecting ferrous materials,aluminum coating usually forms a dense oxide film on the surface of the iron-based alloy.However,the capacity of the sacrificial anode is rather insufficient.In order to solve this problem,the microstructure and electrochemical corrosion properties of Al-8Si-3Fe-xIn alloy under low chlorine conditions were studied.The results show that indium(In)dissolves to form In^(3+)and In^(+)reverse plating on the surface of the bare substrate to form a passivation film defect.When the In content is high,the segregated In forms an activation point in the form of a cathode phase.In activatesτ_(6)phase to form a micro-couple,which improves the non-uniform corrosion.The In-containing corrosion products at the phase boundary hinder the diffusion of Cl−.With an increase of In content,the self-corrosion potential(Ecorr)of the alloy shifts negatively,and the self-corrosion current density(Jcorr)decreases from 6.477μA/cm^(2)to 1.352μA/cm^(2),and then increases gradually.However,when the In content is 0.1%,the Ecorr of the alloy changes from−0.824 V to−0.932 V,and the Jcorr decreases from 6.477μA/cm^(2)to 4.699μA/cm^(2),suggesting that the use of sacrificial anode will give the best effect.
基金the Deanship of Scientific Research at King Khalid University for funding this work through large group Research Project under grant number RGP2/226/44。
文摘This study was conducted to investigate the properties of Pr^(3+)-Dy^(3+)doped Zn_(2)Y-type hexaferrite for potential technological applications.X-ray diffraction(XRD),Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR)and field-emission scanning electron microscopy(FESEM)were used to analyze structural properties.The crystallite size in the synthesized samples varies between 57.54 and 68.57 nm.The vibrational bands at 400 and 600 cm^(-1),common to all hexaferrites,were confirmed through FTIR.The FESEM analysis reveals an agglomeration of magnetic grains and a decrease in the average grain size from 1.24 to1.06μm.The M-H loops show that,with x values of 0.0,0.1,and 0.2,the saturation magnetization is determined to be 34.76,34.23,and 32.52 emu/g,respectively.The corresponding coercivity values are21.24,30.39,and 33.99 Oe.UV-visible spectroscopy using Tauc theory reveals an increase in the optical band gap from 2.32 to 2.50 eV,indicating a tunable energy band structure by incorporating Pr^(3+)-Dy^(3+)ions.The dielectric constant increases,whereas AC conductivity decreases with increased Pr^(3+)-Dy^(3+)concentration.The obtained results suggest the potential suitability of these materials for various technological applications.
文摘The Cretaceous Koum Basin is a rift-related half-graben in northern Cameroon,which constitutes a portion of the Yola Arm of the Upper Benue Trough.This study presents the first comprehensive dataset combining mineral-ogical,bulk-rock geochemical,and stable C-H-O isotopic data for dark-gray,finegrained mudstones from the basin,providing new insights into its sediment source,paleoenvironment,and geodynamic setting.The mudstones primarily consist of phyllosilicates(~8.6%),feldspars(~30.5%),carbonates(~13.7%),and minor iron oxides(~2.7%),with vermiculite,illite,and kaolinite as the main clay minerals.The presence of analcime,ankerite,and dolomite suggests low-grade metamorphism and/or hydrothermal alteration.Fe_(2)O_(3)/K_(2)O(1.52-6.40)and SiO_(2)/Al_(2)O_(3)(2.97-4.68)ratios classify the mudstones as compositionally immature shales(ICV~1.64)with low-moderate chemical weathering(CIA~56.35;PIA~59.74;R^(3+)/R^(3+)+R^(2+)+M^(+)~0.51).Trace element ratios(Th/Sc~1.70,Zr/Sc~1.33,La/Sc~6.30,La/Th~4.14)indicate an intermediate igneous provenance from a continental crustal source.Paleoenviron-mental proxies suggest deposition in a dynamic basin environment marked by fluctuating redox(C org/P:0.21-178.34)and salinity(Sr/Ba:0.34-3.25;N-values:48-35.92)conditions,ranging from oxic to anoxic and brackish to saline.Major element data(SiO_(2) vs.Al_(2)O_(3)+K_(2)O+Na_(2)O)indicate a semi-arid regime,while Paleoclimatic indicators such as Sr/Cu(1.88-37.47)and C-values(0.12-0.93)suggests alter-nating humid and arid conditions.Notably,stable isotope data,reported here for the first time in the Koum Basin,reveal a predominantly terrestrial,fluvial-deltaic C_(3) plant source for organic carbon(δ^(13)C-25.2‰ to -35.2‰)and complex fluid-rock interactions involving meteoric and magmatic-metamorphic fluids under a warm,equatorial climate(δ^(18)O+3.6‰to +24.9‰,δ^(2)H-104‰ to-50‰).The combined mineralogical,geochemical,and isotopic data point to deposition in a tectonically active continental arc setting,with contributions from ocean island arc and passive margin sources.
文摘The advent of civilization has made humans dependent on plants for food and medicine,leading to the intensification of agricultural production.The intense cultivation of crops has resulted in the depletion of available nutrients from soil,thereby demanding the application of excess nutrients to soil to improve yield.Thus,mineral fertilizer discovery and application have,in many ways,contributed greatly to meeting global food demands.However,aside from the positive effects of mineral fertilizers,their excessive application to soil produces large amounts of pollutants that affect environmental sustainability.This necessitates the study of the major mineral fertilizer elements(nitrogen(N),phosphorus(P),and potassium(K)),the forms in which they are applied to soil,and their chemistry/reactions in soil.Here,we reviewed the forms of different N,P,and K mineral fertilizers to provide current knowledge on their constituents,the chemistry of N,P,and K in soil to understand the reactions they undertake in soil,the efficient methods of fertilizer application for environmental sustainability,the effects of mineral fertilizer loss to the environment,and improved fertilization technologies for environmental sustainability.Nanofertilizers are a promising technology for sustainable agricultural production and are discussed in detail in this review.
文摘The Cretaceous Mamu Formation coal samples located within the Northern Anambra Basin were collected, analysed and interpreted using multivariate statistical approach to determine the major, trace and rare elements association with a view to determine the source of the terrestrial rocks, palaeoweathering/climatic conditions and tectonic setting. The dominant oxides such as SiO2, A12O3, Fe2O3, TiO2 and CaO were identified in the coal to suggest terrigenous origin. The ratio of SiO2/Al2O3 of 4.8 suggests that the coal was formed from low land peat associated with freshwater continental marine or blackish water with low salinity as indicated by Sr/Ba and CaO + MgO/K2O + Na2。ratios. The major oxides also revealed stable condition of deposition, low degree of tectonic setting but constant subsidence in the basin. The condition of deposition was acidic in nature as indicated by TiO2/Zr plot. Based on the abundance of Zr, Zn, Ba, Ni, Co, Sr, V, and Y, moderate salinity, sub-oxic to oxic bottom water condition was prevalent and also indication of marine influence. Based on the ratios of La/Yb;La/Sm and Gd/Yb, LREE has higher enrichment than HREE. Humid climatic conditions were observed at the coal formation stage while weak laterization to kaolinization was also evidence.
基金the Internal Grant Agency of Mendel University in Brno(MENDELU,project no.LDF_VP_2019015)。
文摘The positive ecological interaction between gap formation and natural regeneration has been examined but little research has been carried out on the effects of gaps on natural regeneration in forests under different intensities of disturbance.This study evaluates the composition,diversity,regeneration density and abundance of natural regeneration of tree species in gaps in undisturbed,intermittently disturbed,and disturbed forest sites.Bia Tano Forest Reserve in Ghana was the study area and three gaps each were selected in the three forest site categories.Ten circular subsampling areas of 1 m2 were delineated at 2 m spacing along north,south,east,and west transects within individual gaps.Data on natural regeneration<350 cm height were gathered.The results show that the intensity of disturbance was disproportional to gap size.Species diversity differed significantly between undisturbed and disturbed sites and,also between intermittently disturbed and disturbed sites for Simpson’s(1-D),Equitability(J),and Berger-Parker(B-P)indices.However,there was no significant difference among forest sites for Shannon diversity(H)and Margalef richness(MI)indices.Tree species composition on the sites differed.Regeneration density on the disturbed site was significantly higher than on the two other sites.Greater abundance and density of shade-dependent species on all sites identified them as opportunistic replacements of gap-dependent pioneers.Pioneer species giving way to shade tolerant species is a natural process,thus make them worst variant in gap regeneration.
基金financial support from the Shenyang Science and Technology Plan Project(Y17-1-039)。
文摘For the purpose of overcoming the lack of durability problems associated with superhydrophobic surfaces which hitherto has limited their use;we prepared multi-stimuli wettability response coatings using a mixture of fluorocarbon resin and urea-formaldehyde microcapsules filled with fluorosilane via interfacial polymerization process.The microcapsules are of good thermal stability and can be triggered to release their core content on exposure to atmospheric conditions resulting in the increase in the water contact angle from 97°to 151°.The prepared coatings gave good adhesion strength,and also showed an increase in the hydrophobic property after undergoing scratch,solvent and UV accelerated aging test.In addition,they offered good self-healing of the hydrophobic property after an initial loss due to alkaline immersion and oxygen plasma etching.The electrochemical measurements revealed a remarkable impedance recovery and suppression of corrosion activities,suggesting them to be a potential candidate material for corrosion protection.
基金Supported by Inserm Fellowship,France,awarded to Dr.SI Smith
文摘AIM:To comparatively evaluate PCR and other diagnostic methods (the rapid urease test and/or culture) in order to determine which of the three PCR methods (ureA,glmM and 26-kDa,SSA gene) was most appropriate in the diagnosis of Helicobacterpylori(Hpylori) infection and also to evaluate the detection of a putative virulence marker of H pylori,the cage,gene,by PCR in biopsy specimens. METHODS:One hundred and eighty-nine biopsy specimens were collected from 63 patients (three biopsies each) undergoing upper gastroduodenal endoscopy for various dyspeptic symptoms.The PCR methods used to detect H pylori DNA directly from biopsies were the glmM,26-kDa, ureA and then cagA was used to compare the culture technique and CLO for urease with the culture technique being used as the gold standard. RESULTS:Thirty-five percent of the biopsies were positive for H pylori DNA using the 3 PCR methods,while 68% of these were positive for the cagA gene.Twenty-four percent of the biopsies were negative for H pylori DNA in all PCR methods screened.The remaining 41% were either positive for ureA gene only,glmM only,26-kDa only,or ureA+glmM, ureA+26-kDa,glmM+26-kDa.Out of the 35% positive biopsies,41% and 82% were positive by culture and CLO respectively,while all negative biopsies were also negative by culture and cagA.Cag A+ infection was also predominantly found in H pylori DNA of the biopsies irrespective of the clinical diagnosis. CONCLUSION:This method is useful for correctly identifying infections caused by H pylori and can be easily applied in our laboratory for diagnostic purposes.
基金supported by National Key Research Program of China(2016YFD0500510)the China Agriculture Research System(CARS-40-K09),National Natural Science Foundation of China(31772619)Key Technology Research and Development Program of Shandong province(2019JZZY020602).
文摘Heat stress(HS)is an important environmental stress factor affecting poultry production on a global scale.With the rise in ambient temperature and increasing effects of global warming,it becomes pertinent to understand the effects of HS on poultry production and the strategies that can be adopted to mitigate its detrimental impacts on the performance,health,welfare,immunity,and survival of birds.Amino acids(AAs)have been increasingly adopted as nutritional modifiers in animals to ameliorate the adverse effects of HS.They are essential for protein synthesis,growth,maintenance,reproduction,immunity,stress response,and whole-body homeostasis.However,HS tends to adversely affect the availability,transport,absorption,and utilization of these AAs.Studies have investigated the provision of these AAs to poultry during HS conditions,and variable findings have been reported.Taurine,L-theanine,and L-citrulline are non-essential amino acids that are increasingly gaining attention as nutritional supplements in HS animals.Similarly,betaine is an amino acid derivative that possesses favorable biological properties which contributes to its role as a functional additive during HS.Of particular note,taurine is negligible in plants,while betaine,L-theanine,and L-citrulline can be found in selected plants.These nutrients are barely found in feed ingredients,but their supply has been shown to elicit important physiological roles including anti-stress effects,anti-oxidative,anti-inflammatory,gut promoting,and immunomodulatory functions.The present review provides information on the use of these nutritionally and physiologically beneficial nutrients as functional additives to poultry diets during HS conditions.Presently,although several studies have reported on the positive effects of these additives in human and murine studies,however,there is limited information regarding their utilization during heat stress in poultry nutrition.Therefore,this review aims to expound on the functional properties of these nutrients,their potentials for HS alleviation,and to stimulate further researches on their biological roles in poultry nutrition.
基金the support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41502046)partial financial support by the China Geological Survey(No.DD20160030the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,China University of Geosciences,Wuhan(No.CUGCJ1711)
文摘In this study, we present systematic petrological, geochemical, LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb ages and Nd isotopic data for the A-type granites and syenites from Suizhou-Zaoyang region. The results show that the peralkaline A-type granites and syenites were episodically emplaced in Suizhou-Zaoyang region between 450±3 and 441±7 Ma which corresponds to Late Ordovician and Early Silurian periods, respectively. Petrologically, the syenite-peralkaline granite association comprises of nephefine normative-syenite and alkaline granite in Guanzishan and quartz normative syenite and alkafine granite in Huangyangshan. The syenite-granite associations are ferroan to alkali in composition. They depict characteristics of typical OIB （oceanic island basalts） derived A-type granites in multi-elements primitive normalized diagram and Ybffa vs. Y/Nb as well as Ce/Nb vs. Y/Nb binary plots. Significant depletion in Ba, Sr, P, Ti and Eu indicates fractionation of feldspars, biotite, amphiboles and Ti-rich augite. The values of eNd（t） in Guanzishan nepheline syenite and alkaline granite are ＋1.81 and ＋2.26, respectively and the calculated two-stage model age for these rocks are 1 040 and 1 003 Ma, respectively. On the other hand, the Huangyangshan alkaline granite has eNd（t） values ranging from ＋2.61 to ＋3.46 and a relatively younger two-stage Nd model age values ranging from 906 to 975 Ma, respectively. Based on these data, we inferred that the Guanzishan nepheline syenites and granites were formed from fractional crystallization of OIB-like basic magmas derived from upweliing of metasomatized lithospheric mantle. The Huangyangshan quartz syenite and granite on the other hand, were formed from similar magmas through fractional crystallization with low input from the ancient crustal rocks. Typically, the rocks exhibit Al-type granite affinity and classified as within plate granites associated with the Ordovician crustal extension and the Silurian rifting.
基金supported by the grant from The National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30725048)National Basic Research Program of China(No.2009CB522303)the Foundation of Chinese Academy of Sciences(West Light Program).
文摘Two novel 4,5-secoeudesmane sesquiterpenoids, oxyphyllones A （1） and B （2） were isolated from the fruits of Alpinia oxyphylla. Their structures were established by spectroscopic methods including 1D and 21） NMR spectra. These two compounds are the first example of naturally occurring sesquiterpenoids with a 4,5-secoeudesmane skeleton in the family of Zingiberaceae and oxyphyllone A （1） is the first 4,5-secoeudesmane type of 13-norsesquiterpenoid. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited no cytotoxicities against three cancer cell lines at 10 μg/mL. ？ 2009 Ning Hua Tan. Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Chinese Chemical Society. All rights reserved.
文摘In an effort to find suitable wood from natural forest to meet the demand for veneer products, the yield and tensile strength of veneers produced from Brachystegia nigerica were investigated. Two trees of B. nigerica were separately selected from 10 different natural forest zones while two logs were obtained from each tree. The logs were debarked and steamed in a vat prior to rotary peeling and slicing for veneer production. The optimum steam temperature was determined by considering different temperatures： 50℃, 60℃, 70℃, 80℃ and 90℃ for 24 h. Thereafter, optimum steam time was determined at the optimum temperature by considering durations of 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. The average taper of 0.75 mm per 1.0 m length was recorded for B. nigerica, indicating that the logs were reasonably cylindrical; thereby its logs are good for the production of veneer. The yield ranged from 44% to 61% with an average of 52% of the log input. The tensile strength of the veneer was tested perpendicular to grain and both peeled and sliced veneers had the highest tensile strength between 70℃ and 90℃, suggesting that softening of wood polymers, especially lignin, is between 70℃ and 90℃. The optimum temperature and time for veneer production are 70℃ and 48 h, respectively. Commercial production of veneer from B. nigerica is feasible based on the yield and mechanical properties of the obtained veneer, thereby encouraging the expansion of the scope of its utilization.
文摘Objective:To investigate the phenolic compounds composition and the inhibitory activity of Mangifera indica(M.indica) and Mucuna urens(M.urens) seeds extracts against some key enzymes(-amylase,-glucosidasc and aldose reductase) implicated in the pathology and complications of type 2 diabetes in vitro.Methods:Reverse phase chromatographic quantification of the major flavonoids and phenolic acids in the seeds extracts was carried out using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection.The inhibitory activities of the seeds extracts against-amylase and-glucosidase were estimated using soluble starch and p-nitrophenylglucopyranosidc as their respective substrates.Inhibition of aldose reductase activity by the extracts was assayed using partially purified lens homogenate of normal male rat as source of enzyme;inhibition of Fe^(2+)-induced lipid peroxidation by extracts was tested in rat pancreas homogenate.Results:The chromatography result revealed that extracts of both seeds had appreciable levels of some major flavonoids and phenolic acids of pharmacological importance,including gallic acid,chlorogenic acid,caffeic acid,ellagic acid,catechin,rutin,quercitrin.quercetin and kaempferol.Extracts of both seeds effectively inhibited-amylase,-glucosidase and aldose reductase activities in a dose-dependent manner,having inhibitory preference for these enzymes in the order of aldose reductase>-glucosidase>-amylase.With lower half-maximal inhibitory concentrations(IC50)against-amylase,-glucosidase,and aldose reductase,M.indica had stronger inhibitory potency against these enzymes than M.urens.Extracts of both seeds also inhibited Fe2+-induced lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent pattern,with M.indica being more potent than M.urens.Conclusions:The results obtained provide support for a possible use of M.indica and M.urens seeds in managing hyperglycemia and preventing the complications associated with it in type 2diabetes.
