bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Dielectric Properties of Cells using AC Electrokinetic-based Microfluidic Platform: A Review of Recent Advances
Authors: Liang Wenfeng , Yang Xieliu , Wang Junhai , Wang Yuechao , Yang Wenguang , Liu Lianqing
Published: May 2020

Cell dielectric properties, a type of intrinsic property of cells, can be used as electrophysiological biomarkers that offer a label-free way to characterize cell phenotypes and states, purify clinical samples, and identify target cancer cells. Here, we present a review of the determination of cell dielectric properties using alternating current (AC) electrokinetic-based microfluidic mechanisms, including electro-rotation (ROT) and dielectrophoresis (DEP). The review covers theoretically how ROT and DEP work to extract cell dielectric properties. We also dive into the details of differently structured ROT chips, followed by a discussion on the determination of cell dielectric properties and the use of these properties in bio-related applications. Additionally, the review offers a look at the future challenges facing the AC electrokinetic-based microfluidic platform in terms of acquiring cell dielectric parameters. Our conclusion is that this platform will bring biomedical and bioengineering sciences to the next level and ultimately achieve the shift from lab-oriented research to real-world applications.
Donated Human Milk as a Determinant Factor for the Gut Bifidobacterial Ecology in Premature Babies
Authors: Arboleya Silvia , Saturio Silvia , Suárez Marta , Fernández Nuria , Mancabelli Leonardo , de los Reyes-Gavilán Clara G. , Ventura Marco , Solís Gonzalo , Gueimonde Miguel
Published: May 2020

Correct establishment of the gut microbiome is compromised in premature babies, with Bifidobacterium being one of the most affected genera. Prematurity often entails the inability to successfully breastfeed, therefore requiring the implementation of other feeding modes; breast milk expression from a donor mother is the recommended option when their own mother’s milk is not available. Some studies showed different gut microbial profiles in premature infants fed with breast milk and donor human milk, however, it is not known how this affects the species composition of the genus Bifidobacterium. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of donated human milk on shaping the gut bifidobacterial populations of premature babies during the first three months of life. We analyzed the gut bifidobacterial communities of 42 premature babies fed with human donor milk or own-mother milk by the 16S rRNA–23S rRNA internal transcriber spaces (ITS) region sequencing and q-PCR. Moreover, metabolic activity was assessed by gas chromatography. We observed a specific bifidobacterial profile based on feeding type, with higher bifidobacterial diversity in the human donor milk group. Differences in specific Bifidobacterium species composition may contribute to the development of specific new strategies or treatments aimed at mimicking the impact of own-mother milk feeding in neonatal units.
Proteomics of Brucella: Technologies and Their Applications for Basic Research and Medical Microbiology
Authors: Wareth Gamal , Pletz Mathias W. , Neubauer Heinrich , Murugaiyan Jayaseelan
Published: May 2020

Brucellosis is a global zoonosis caused by Gram-negative, facultative intracellular bacteria of the genus Brucella (B.). Proteomics has been used to investigate a few B. melitensis and B. abortus strains, but data for other species and biovars are limited. Hence, a comprehensive analysis of proteomes will significantly contribute to understanding the enigmatic biology of brucellae. For direct identification and typing of Brucella, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization—time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI—TOF MS) has become a reliable tool for routine diagnosis due to its ease of handling, price and sensitivity highlighting the potential of proteome-based techniques. Proteome analysis will also help to overcome the historic but still notorious Brucella obstacles of infection medicine, the lack of safe and protective vaccines and sensitive serologic diagnostic tools by identifying the most efficient protein antigens. This perspective summarizes past and recent developments in Brucella proteomics with a focus on species identification and serodiagnosis. Future applications of proteomics in these fields are discussed.
Environmental Impact on Differential Composition of Gut Microbiota in Indoor Chickens in Commercial Production and Outdoor, Backyard Chickens
Authors: Seidlerova Zuzana , Kubasova Tereza , Faldynova Marcela , Crhanova Magdalena , Karasova Daniela , Babak Vladimir , Rychlik Ivan
Published: May 2020

In this study, we compared the caecal microbiota composition of egg-laying hens from commercial production that are kept indoors throughout their whole life with microbiota of hens kept outdoors. The microbiota of outdoor hens consisted of lower numbers of bacterial species than the microbiota of indoor hens. At the phylum level, microbiota of outdoor hens was enriched for Bacteroidetes (62.41 ± 4.47% of total microbiota in outdoor hens and 52.01 ± 6.27% in indoor hens) and Proteobacteria (9.33 ± 4.99% in outdoor and 5.47 ± 2.24% in indoor hens). On the other hand, Firmicutes were more abundant in the microbiota of indoor hens (33.28 ± 5.11% in indoor and 20.66 ± 4.41% in outdoor hens). Horizontally transferrable antibiotic resistance genes tetO, tet(32), tet(44), and tetW were also less abundant in the microbiota of outdoor hens than indoor hens. A comparison of the microbiota composition at the genus and species levels pointed toward isolates specifically adapted to the two extreme environments. However, genera and species recorded as being similarly abundant in the microbiota of indoor and outdoor hens are equally as noteworthy because these represent microbiota members that are highly adapted to chickens, irrespective of their genetics, feed composition, and living environment.
Exploration of Seafloor Massive Sulfide Deposits with Fixed-Offset Marine Controlled Source Electromagnetic Method: Numerical Simulations and the Effects of Electrical Anisotropy
Authors: Peng Ronghua , Han Bo , Hu Xiangyun
Published: May 2020

Seafloor massive sulfide (SMS) deposits have attracted growing interest and become the focus of current seafloor mineral exploration. One key challenge is to delineate potential SMS accumulations and estimate their quantity and quality for prospective resource mining. Recently, geophysical electromagnetic methods which are routinely used for land-based mineral exploration are being adapted to detect and assess SMS occurrences by imaging their conductivity distributions. However, the rough seafloor topography and electrical anisotropy of the seafloor formations encountered in practical surveys pose challenges for reliable data interpretation, and recent studies have revealed that the rough bathymetry could cause measurable distortions. Here, we consider a fixed-offset marine controlled-source electromagnetic method (CSEM) for SMS exploration, and investigate the effects of electrical anisotropy of sedimentary formations through numerical simulations for marine CSEM surveys aiming at conductive targets in the shallow regions of the seafloor. Numerical results demonstrate that the presence of electrical anisotropy could impose significant influence on fixed-offset marine CSEM data and suggest that the distortions should be sufficiently accounted for reliable data interpretation, thus lending confidence to subsequent quantification of available SMS minerals.
Model Test and Numerical Study on Surrounding Rock Deformation and Overburden Strata Movement Law of Gob-Side Entry Retaining via Roof Cutting
Authors: Zhu Daoyong , Wang Jiong , Gong Weili , Sun Zheng
Published: May 2020

The effects of roof cutting techniques on the movement law of the overlying strata and deformation features of the surrounding rock in gob-side entry retaining mines were studied using 200 working faces of the Dianping coal mine in Shanxi Province. Using a mechanical analysis, a cantilever beam model formed by roof cutting was used to derive a deformation equation. The physical model test based on the field prototype revealed an asymmetrically distributed displacement curve and reduced collapse displacement when the rock stratum was far from the cutting seam. Outside of the roof cutting height, the collapse of the overlying strata gradually reached a symmetric distribution with increasing height. The deformation of the retained roadway was mainly concentrated on the roof, and the maximum deformation was 14 mm near the roof cutting side. A numerical simulation of the original size of the model test proved that the laws of strata movement and surrounding rock deformation were consistent with the physical test results. Finally, field measurements were performed, which verified the rationality of this study.
Covalent Protein Immobilization onto Muscovite Mica Surface with a Photocrosslinker
Authors: Valueva Anastasia A. , Shumov Ivan D. , Kaysheva Anna L. , Ivanova Irina A. , Ziborov Vadim S. , Ivanov Yuri D. , Pleshakova Tatyana O.
Published: May 2020

Muscovite mica with an amino silane-modified surface is commonly used as a substrate in atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies of biological macromolecules. Herein, the efficiency of two different protein immobilization strategies employing either (N-hydroxysuccinimide ester)-based crosslinker (DSP) or benzophenone-based photoactivatable crosslinker (SuccBB) has been compared using AFM and mass spectrometry analysis. Two proteins with different physicochemical properties—human serum albumin (HSA) and horseradish peroxidase enzyme protein (HRP)—have been used as model objects in the study. In the case of HRP, both crosslinkers exhibited high immobilization efficiency—as opposed to the case with HSA, when sufficient capturing efficiency has only been observed with SuccBB photocrosslinker. The results obtained herein can find their application in commonly employed bioanalytical systems and in the development of novel highly sensitive chip-based diagnostic platforms employing immobilized proteins. The obtained data can also be of interest for other research areas in medicine and biotechnology employing immobilized biomolecules.
New Strategies in the Cultivation of Olive Trees and Repercussions on the Nutritional Value of the Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: Dini Irene , Graziani Giulia , Gaspari Anna , Fedele Francesca Luisa , Sicari Andrea , Vinale Francesco , Cavallo Pierpaolo , Lorito Matteo , Ritieni Alberto
Published: May 2020

The health advantages of extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) are ascribed mainly to the antioxidant ability of the phenolic compounds. Secoiridoids, hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, phenolic acid, and flavones, are the main nutraceutical substances of EVOO. Applications of beneficial microbes and/or their metabolites impact the plant metabolome. In this study the effects of application of selected Trichoderma strains or their effectors (secondary metabolites) on the phenolic compounds content and antioxidant potential of the EVOOs have been evaluated. For this purpose, Trichoderma virens (strain GV41) and Trichoderma harzianum (strain T22), well-known biocontrol agents, and two their metabolites harzianic acid (HA) and 6-pentyl-α-pyrone (6PP) were been used to treat plants of Olea europaea var. Leccino and var. Carolea. Then the nutraceutical potential of EVOO was evaluated. Total phenolic content was estimated by Folin–Ciocalteau’s assay, metabolic profile by High-Resolution Mass spectroscopy (HRMS-Orbitrap), and antioxidant activity by DPPH and ABTS assays. Our results showed that in the cultivation of the olive tree, T22 and its metabolites improve the nutraceutical value of the EVOOs modulating the phenolic profile and improving antioxidants activity.
Protective Effects of Fucoidan Isolated from Celluclast-Assisted Extract of Undaria pinnatifida Sporophylls against AAPH-Induced Oxidative Stress In Vitro and In Vivo Zebrafish Model
Authors: Oh Jae-Young , Kim Eun-A , Kang Sang In , Yang Hye-Won , Ryu Bomi , Wang Lei , Lee Jung-Suck , Jeon You-Jin
Published: May 2020

Fucoidan is a fucose-enriched polysaccharide, obtained from brown algae, with demonstrated antioxidant properties. However, traditional extraction methods using water or chemical-based extraction methods have reduced yield and produced hazardous by-products. In this study, we isolated fucoidan at a high yield using enzyme-assisted extraction; the Celluclast enzyme assisted extract of Undaria pinnatifida sporophylls (FCUS). To examine the antioxidant properties of FCUS, oxidative stress was induced with 2,2′-azobis (2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AAPH) in Vero cells and zebrafish model. FCUS was composed of 30.4% sulfate and 52.3% fucose. Pre-treatment of Vero cells with FCUS dose dependently inhibited AAPH-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Moreover, FCUS remarkably reduced cell death, ROS generation, and lipid peroxidation production in zebrafish larvae. Overall, these findings indicate that the sulfate-rich fucoidan of FCUS, obtained with an eco-friendly process, could be implemented as a beneficial antioxidant agent in the functional food industry.
Lectins from the Edible Mushroom Agaricus bisporus and Their Therapeutic Potentials
Authors: Tirta Ismaya Wangsa , Tjandrawinata Raymond Rubianto , Rachmawati Heni
Published: May 2020

The mushroom Agaricus bisporus secretes biologically active compounds and proteins with benefits for human health. Most reported proteins from A. bisporus are tyrosinases and lectins. Lectins are of therapeutic or pharmaceutical interest. To date, only limited information is available on A. bisporus lectins and lectin-like proteins. No therapeutic products derived from A. bisporus lectin (ABL) are available on the market despite its extensive exploration. Recently, A. bisporus mannose-binding protein (Abmb) was discovered. Its discovery enriches the information and increases the interest in proteins with therapeutic potential from this mushroom. Furthermore, the A. bisporus genome reveals the possible occurrence of other lectins in this mushroom that may also have therapeutic potential. Most of these putative lectins belong to the same lectin groups as ABL and Abmb. Their relationship is discussed. Particular attention is addressed to ABL and Abmb, which have been explored for their potential in medicinal or pharmaceutical applications. ABL and Abmb have anti-proliferative activities toward cancer cells and a stimulatory effect on the immune system. Possible scenarios for their use in therapy and modification are also presented.
Two Sides to the Same Coin—Cytotoxicity vs. Potential Metastatic Activity of AgNPs Relative to Triple-Negative Human Breast Cancer MDA-MB-436 Cells
Authors: Matysiak-Kucharek Magdalena , Czajka Magdalena , Jodłowska-Jędrych Barbara , Sawicki Krzysztof , Wojtyła-Buciora Paulina , Kruszewski Marcin , Kapka-Skrzypczak Lucyna
Published: May 2020

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are used in many fields of industry and medicine. Despite the well-established antimicrobial activity, AgNPs are foreseen to be used as anticancer drugs due to the unusual feature—inability to induce drug resistance in cancer cells. The aim of the study was to assess biological activity of AgNPs against MDA-MB-436 cells. The cells were derived from triple-negative breast cancer, a type of breast cancer with poor prognosis and is particularly difficult to cure. AgNPs were toxic to MDA-MB-436 cells and the probable mechanism of toxicity was the induction of oxidative stress. These promising effects, giving the opportunity to use AgNPs as an anti-cancer agent should, however, be treated with caution in the light of further results. Namely, the treatment of MDA-MB-436 cells with AgNPs was associated with the increased secretion of several cytokines and chemokines, which were important in breast cancer metastasis. Finally, changes in the actin cytoskeleton of MDA-MB-436 cells under the influence of AgNPs treatment were also observed.
Identifying Personas in Online Shopping Communities
Authors: Xu Yu , Lee Michael J.
Published: May 2020

Online shopping communities have emerged amid growing social shopping activities and involve user-centered online platforms that encourage user-generated content and interactions, such as reading and writing reviews, rating products, and sharing shopping experiences. However, similar to other online platforms and communities, online shopping communities face challenges to provide tailored content and support appropriate socialization to engage users and encourage individualized contribution within the communities. To provide unique, personalized support for each individual user, this study developed personas in online shopping communities based on their motivation for participation, as well as reading and posting behaviors. Based on the findings from 20 interviews and focus groups with 24 active online shopping community participants, we developed an online survey on MTurk to investigate the characteristics of the personas and received 194 valid responses. Four persona types emerge after the analysis of both the qualitative and quantitative data—Opportunists, Contributors, Explorers, and Followers.
The Power of Gaze in Music. Leonard Bernstein’s Conducting Eyes
Authors: Poggi Isabella , Ranieri Loredana , Leone Ylenia , Ansani Alessandro
Published: May 2020

The paper argues for the importance and richness of gaze communication during orchestra and choir conduction, and presents three studies on this issue. First, an interview with five choir and orchestra conductors reveals that they are not so deeply aware of the potentialities of gaze to convey indications in music performance. A conductor who was utterly conscious of the importance of gaze communication, however, is Leonard Bernstein, who conducted a performance of Haydn’s Symphony No. 88 using his face and gaze only. Therefore, a fragment of this performance is analyzed in an observational study, where a qualitative analysis singles out the items of gaze exploited by Bernstein and their corresponding meanings. Finally, a perception study is presented in which three of these items are submitted to expert, non-expert, and amateur participants. The results show that while the signal for “start” is fairly recognized, the other two, “pay attention” and “crescendo and accelerando” are more difficult to interpret. Furthermore, significant differences in gaze item recognition emerge among participants: experts not only recognize them more, but they also take advantage of viewing the items with audio-visual vs. video-only presentation, while non-experts do not take advantage of audio in their recognition.
Seedless Hydrothermal Growth of ZnO Nanorods as a Promising Route for Flexible Tactile Sensors
Authors: Cesini Ilaria , Kowalczyk Magdalena , Lucantonio Alessandro , D’Alesio Giacomo , Kumar Pramod , Camboni Domenico , Massari Luca , Pingue Pasqualantonio , De Simone Antonio , Fraleoni Morgera Alessandro , Oddo Calogero Maria
Published: May 2020

Hydrothermal growth of ZnO nanorods has been widely used for the development of tactile sensors, with the aid of ZnO seed layers, favoring the growth of dense and vertically aligned nanorods. However, seed layers represent an additional fabrication step in the sensor design. In this study, a seedless hydrothermal growth of ZnO nanorods was carried out on Au-coated Si and polyimide substrates. The effects of both the Au morphology and the growth temperature on the characteristics of the nanorods were investigated, finding that smaller Au grains produced tilted rods, while larger grains provided vertical rods. Highly dense and high-aspect-ratio nanorods with hexagonal prismatic shape were obtained at 75 °C and 85 °C, while pyramid-like rods were grown when the temperature was set to 95 °C. Finite-element simulations demonstrated that prismatic rods produce higher voltage responses than the pyramid-shaped ones. A tactile sensor, with an active area of 1 cm2, was fabricated on flexible polyimide substrate and embedding the nanorods forest in a polydimethylsiloxane matrix as a separation layer between the bottom and the top Au electrodes. The prototype showed clear responses upon applied loads of 2–4 N and vibrations over frequencies in the range of 20–800 Hz.
Nanomaterials in Cosmetics: Recent Updates
Authors: Fytianos Georgios , Rahdar Abbas , Kyzas George Z.
Published: May 2020

This review paper collects the recent updates regarding the use of nanomaterials in cosmetics. Special focus is given to the applications of nanomaterials in the cosmetic industry, their unique features, as well as the advantages of nanoscale ingredients compared to non-nanoscale products. The state-of-the-art practices for physicochemical and toxicological characterization of nanomaterials are also reviewed. Moreover, special focus is given to the current regulations and safety assessments that are currently in place regarding the use of nanomaterials in cosmetics—the new 2019 European guidance for the safety assessment of nanomaterials in cosmetics, together with the new proposed methodologies for the toxicity evaluation of nanomaterials. Concerns over health risks have limited the further incorporation of nanomaterials in cosmetics, and since new nanomaterials may be used in the future by the cosmetic industry, a detailed characterization and risk assessment are needed to fulfill the standard safety requirements.
The COVID-19 Pandemic during the Time of the Diabetes Pandemic: Likely Fraternal Twins?
Authors: Cole Shelley A. , Laviada-Molina Hugo A. , Serres-Perales Jeannette M. , Rodriguez-Ayala Ernesto , Bastarrachea Raul A.
Published: May 2020

An altered immune response to pathogens has been suggested to explain increased susceptibility to infectious diseases in patients with diabetes. Recent evidence has documented several immunometabolic pathways in patients with diabetes directly related to the COVID-19 infection. This also seems to be the case for prediabetic subjects with proinflammatory insulin resistance syndrome accompanied with prothrombotic hyperinsulinemic and dysglycemic states. Patients with frank hyperglycemia, dysglycemia and/or hyperinsulinemia develop systemic immunometabolic inflammation with higher levels of circulating cytokines. This deleterious scenario has been proposed as the underlying mechanism enhancing a cytokine storm-like hyperinflammatory state in diabetics infected with severe COVID-19 triggering multi-organ failure. Compared with moderately affected COVID-19 patients, diabetes was found to be highly prevalent among severely affected patients suggesting that this non-communicable disease should be considered as a risk factor for adverse outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic mirrors with the diabetes pandemic in many pathobiological aspects. Our interest is to emphasize the ties between the immunoinflammatory mechanisms that underlie the morbidity and lethality when COVID-19 meets diabetes. This review brings attention to two pathologies of highly complex, multifactorial, developmental and environmentally dependent manifestations of critical importance to human survival. Extreme caution should be taken with diabetics with suspected symptoms of COVID-19 infection.
Multiple Tick-Borne Pathogens in Ixodes ricinus Ticks Collected from Humans in Romania
Authors: Kalmár Zsuzsa , Dumitrache Mirabela Oana , D’Amico Gianluca , Matei Ioana Adriana , Ionică Angela Monica , Gherman Călin Mircea , Lupșe Mihaela , Mihalca Andrei Daniel
Published: May 2020

Ticks are medically important vectors of infectious diseases that are able to transmit pathogens to humans and animals. Tick-borne diseases represent a major health concern, posing an increasing risk to the public health during the last century and affecting millions of people. The aim of the current study was to provide epidemiological data regarding the presence of certain tick-borne pathogens in ticks feeding on humans in Romania. Overall, 522 Ixodes ricinus ticks collected from humans were screened for six pathogens: Borrelia spp., Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Babesia spp., Coxiella spp., Bartonella spp., and Francisella tularensis. Ticks attached to humans were collected between 2013–2015 in Cluj County, Romania. Conventional, nested and quantitative PCR were used to detect specific genetic sequences of each pathogen. For identifying the infectious agents, positive samples were sequenced. The infection prevalence was 21.07% from which 8.18% were mixed infections. The detected agents were Borrelia spp., N. mikurensis and Babesia spp. The present data reveal the endemic occurrence of potentially zoonotic pathogens in Romania. Revealing the current distribution of tick-borne pathogens in ticks collected from humans may provide new insights in understanding the complex ecology of tick-borne diseases and enlightens current knowledge about the infection prevalence at local, regional and national levels.
Liquid-Filled Highly Asymmetric Photonic Crystal Fiber Sagnac Interferometer Temperature Sensor
Authors: Monfared Yashar E. , Ahmadian Amir , Dhasarathan Vigneswaran , Liang Chunhao
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we theoretically designed and numerically studied a high-resolution and ultrasensitive photonic crystal fiber temperature sensor by selective filling of a liquid with high thermo-optic coefficient in one of the airholes of the fiber. The finite element method was utilized to study the propagation characteristics and the modal birefringence of the fiber under different ambient temperatures. A large base birefringence value of 7.7 × 10−4 as well as a large birefringence sensitivity of almost 29% to a 10 °C temperature variation was achieved for the optimized fiber design with liquid chloroform between 15 °C and 35 °C. We also studied the performance of the proposed optical fiber in a temperature sensing Sagnac interferometer. An average linear temperature sensitivity of 17.53 nm/°C with an average resolution of 5.7 × 10−4 °C was achieved over a temperature range of 20 °C (15 °C to 35 °C).
A Gaussian Model for the Time Development of the Sars-Cov-2 Corona Pandemic Disease. Predictions for Germany Made on 30 March 2020
Authors: Schlickeiser Reinhard , Schlickeiser Frank
Published: May 2020

For Germany, it is predicted that the first wave of the corona pandemic disease reaches its maximum of new infections on 11 April 2020 − 3.4 + 5.4 days with 90% confidence. With a delay of about 7 days the maximum demand on breathing machines in hospitals occurs on 18 April 2020 − 3.4 + 5.4 days. The first pandemic wave ends in Germany end of May 2020. The predictions are based on the assumption of a Gaussian time evolution well justified by the central limit theorem of statistics. The width and the maximum time and thus the duration of this Gaussian distribution are determined from a statistical χ 2 -fit to the observed doubling times before 28 March 2020.
Silicon Alters Leaf Surface Morphology and Suppresses Insect Herbivory in a Model Grass Species
Authors: Hall Casey R. , Dagg Vaibhav , Waterman Jamie M. , Johnson Scott N.
Published: May 2020

Grasses accumulate large amounts of silicon (Si) which is deposited in trichomes, specialised silica cells and cell walls. This may increase leaf toughness and reduce cell rupture, palatability and digestion. Few studies have measured leaf mechanical traits in response to Si, thus the effect of Si on herbivores can be difficult to disentangle from Si-induced changes in leaf surface morphology. We assessed the effects of Si on Brachypodium distachyon mechanical traits (specific leaf area (SLA), thickness, leaf dry matter content (LDMC), relative electrolyte leakage (REL)) and leaf surface morphology (macrohairs, prickle, silica and epidermal cells) and determined the effects of Si on the growth of two generalist insect herbivores (Helicoverpa armigera and Acheta domesticus). Si had no effect on leaf mechanical traits; however, Si changed leaf surface morphology: silica and prickle cells were on average 127% and 36% larger in Si supplemented plants, respectively. Prickle cell density was significantly reduced by Si, while macrohair density remained unchanged. Caterpillars were more negatively affected by Si compared to crickets, possibly due to the latter having a thicker and thus more protective gut lining. Our data show that Si acts as a direct defence against leaf-chewing insects by changing the morphology of specialised defence structures without altering leaf mechanical traits.
Foliar Glycine Betaine or Hydrogen Peroxide Sprays Ameliorate Waterlogging Stress in Cape Gooseberry
Authors: Castro-Duque Nicolas E. , Chávez-Arias Cristhian C. , Restrepo-Díaz Hermann
Published: May 2020

Exogenous glycine betaine (GB) or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) application has not been explored to mitigate waterlogging stress in Andean fruit trees. The objective of this study was to evaluate foliar GB or H2O2 application on the physiological behavior of Cape gooseberry plants under waterlogging. Two separate experiments were carried out. In the first trial, the treatment groups were: (1) plants without waterlogging and with no foliar applications, (2) plants with waterlogging and without foliar applications, and (3) waterlogged plants with 25, 50, or 100 mM of H2O2 or GB, respectively. The treatments in the second trial were: (1) plants without waterlogging and with no foliar applications, (2) plants with waterlogging and without foliar applications, and (3) waterlogged plants with 100 mM of H2O2 or GB, respectively. In the first experiment, plants with waterlogging and with exogenous GB or H2O2 applications at a dose of 100 mM showed higher leaf water potential (−0.5 Mpa), dry weight (1.0 g), and stomatal conductance (95 mmol·m−2·s−1) values. In the second experiment, exogenously supplied GB or H2O2 also increased the relative growth rate, and leaf photosynthesis mitigating waterlogging stress. These results show that short-term GB or H2O2 supply can be a tool in managing waterlogging in Cape gooseberry.
Root Foraging Capacity in Bambara Groundnut (Vigna Subterranea (L.) Verdc.) Core Parental Lines Depends on the Root System Architecture during the Pre-Flowering Stage
Authors: Mateva Kumbirai Ivyne , Chai Hui Hui , Mayes Sean , Massawe Festo
Published: May 2020

Characterizing the morphological variability in root system architecture (RSA) during the sensitive pre-flowering growth stage is important for crop performance. To assess this variation, eight bambara groundnut single genotypes derived from landraces of contrasting geographic origin were selected for root system architecture and rooting distribution studies. Plants were grown in a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) column system under controlled water and nutrient availability in a rainout shelter. Days to 50% plant emergence was characterized during the first two weeks after sowing, while taproot length (TRL), root length (RL), root length density (RLD), branching number (BN), branching density (BD) and intensity (BI), surface area (SA), root volume (RV), root diameter (RDia), root dry weight (RDW), shoot dry weight (SDW), and shoot height (SH) were determined at the end of the experiment, i.e., 35 days after emergence. Genotypes S19-3 and DipC1 sourced from drier regions of sub-Saharan Africa generally had longer taproots and greater root length distribution in deeper (60 to 90 cm) soil depths. In contrast, bambara groundnut genotypes from wetter regions (i.e., Gresik, Lunt, and IITA-686) in Southeast Asia and West Africa exhibited relatively shallow and highly branched root growth closer to the soil surface. Genotypes at the pre-flowering growth stage showed differential root foraging patterns and branching habits with two extremes, i.e., deep-cheap rooting in the genotypes sourced from dry regions and a shallow-costly rooting system in genotypes adapted to higher rainfall areas with shallow soils. We propose specific bambara groundnut genotype as donors in root trait driven breeding programs to improve water capture and use efficiency.
Ethnobotanical Survey of Plants Used for Treating Cough Associated with Respiratory Conditions in Ede South Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Lawal Ibraheem Oduola , Olufade Ikeolu Idowu , Rafiu Basirat Olabisi , Aremu Adeyemi O.
Published: May 2020

In many developing countries, community members depend on their local flora for treating diverse ailments including those affecting the respiratory system. This is often attributed to the high cost and limited access to health care facilities. This present study focused on the documentation of plant species used against cough associated with the respiratory diseases in Ede South Local Government Area of Osun State. The survey was conducted using semi-structured interviews among 100 participants. Information obtained was analyzed using different ethno-botanical indices including relative frequency of citation (RFC) and fidelity level (FL). A total of 87 plant species from 39 families, which was mostly represented by Fabaceae, were reported in the study area. Crinum jagus was the most popular plant used against cough and approximately 32% of the plants have been reported as cough remedies for the first time. However, some of the documented plants have been reported for the treatment of cough and related respiratory diseases in several countries. In terms of the life-form, trees constituted the highest proportion of the medicinal plants (37%), while leaves (36%) were the predominant plant part prescribed for cough. Decoction was the main method of preparing the plants, which were all administered orally. Approximately 63% of the plants were exclusively sourced from the wild. The current study revealed the richness and widespread use of plant species for managing cough associated with respiratory diseases in the study area. The generated inventory contributes to the expanding database of valuable plant resources with medicinal potential in Nigeria and Africa.
Contributions and Limitations of Biophysical Approaches to Study of the Interactions between Amphiphilic Molecules and the Plant Plasma Membrane
Authors: Furlan Aurélien L. , Laurin Yoann , Botcazon Camille , Rodríguez-Moraga Nely , Rippa Sonia , Deleu Magali , Lins Laurence , Sarazin Catherine , Buchoux Sébastien
Published: May 2020

Some amphiphilic molecules are able to interact with the lipid matrix of plant plasma membranes and trigger the immune response in plants. This original mode of perception is not yet fully understood and biophysical approaches could help to obtain molecular insights. In this review, we focus on such membrane-interacting molecules, and present biophysically grounded methods that are used and are particularly interesting in the investigation of this mode of perception. Rather than going into overly technical details, the aim of this review was to provide to readers with a plant biochemistry background a good overview of how biophysics can help to study molecular interactions between bioactive amphiphilic molecules and plant lipid membranes. In particular, we present the biomimetic membrane models typically used, solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance, molecular modeling, and fluorescence approaches, because they are especially suitable for this field of research. For each technique, we provide a brief description, a few case studies, and the inherent limitations, so non-specialists can gain a good grasp on how they could extend their toolbox and/or could apply new techniques to study amphiphilic bioactive compound and lipid interactions.
Experimental Analysis of the Performance and Load Cycling of a Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Ramírez-Cruzado Andrea , Ramírez-Peña Blanca , Vélez-García Rosario , Iranzo Alfredo , Guerra José
Published: May 2020

In this work, a comprehensive experimental analysis on the performance of a 50 cm2 polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell is presented, including experimental results for a dedicated load cycling test. The harmonized testing protocols defined by the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission for automotive applications were followed. With respect to a reference conditions representative of automotive applications, the impact of variations in the cell temperature, reactants pressure, and cathode stoichiometry was analyzed. The results showed that a higher temperature resulted in an increase in cell performance. A higher operating pressure also resulted in higher cell voltages. Higher cathode stoichiometry values negatively affected the cell performance, as relatively dry air was supplied, thus promoting the dry-out of the cell. However, a too low stoichiometry caused a sudden drop in the cell voltage at higher current densities, and also caused significant cell voltage oscillations. No significant cell degradation was observed after the load cycling tests.
Compound Identification and In Vitro Cytotoxicity of the Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extract of Papaya Freeze-Dried Leaf Juice
Authors: Khaw Kooi-Yeong , Shaw Paul Nicholas , Parat Marie-Odile , Pandey Saurabh , Falconer James Robert
Published: May 2020

Carica papaya leaves are used as a remedy for the management of cancer. Freeze-dried C. papaya leaf juice was extracted using a supercritical fluid extraction system. Compound identification was carried out using analytical techniques including liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC–QToF-MS) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The cytotoxic activities of the scCO2 extract and its chemical constituents were determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay on squamous cell carcinoma (SCC25) and human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cell lines. The chemical constituents were quantified by QToF-MS. The supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) extract of papaya freeze-dried leaf juice showed cytotoxic activity against SCC25. Three phytosterols, namely, β-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol, together with α-tocopherol, were confirmed to be present in the scCO2 extract. Quantitative analysis showed that β-sitosterol was the major phytosterol present followed by α-tocopherol, campesterol, and stigmasterol. β-Sitosterol and campesterol were active against SCC25 (half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) ≈ 1 µM), while stigmasterol was less active (~33 µM) but was biologically more selective against SCC25. Interestingly, an equimolar mixture of phytosterols was not more effective (no synergistic effect was observed) but was more selective than the individual compounds. The compounds identified are likely accountable for at least part of the cytotoxicity and selectivity effects of C. papaya.
Copyright in the Scientific Community. The Limitations and Exceptions in the European Union and Spanish Legal Frameworks
Authors: Sobrino-García Itziar
Published: May 2020

The increase of visibility and transfer of scholar knowledge through digital environments have been followed by the author’s rights abuses such as plagiarism and fraud. For this reason, copyright is increasingly a topic of major importance since it provides authors with a set of rights to enable them to utilize their work and to be recognized as the creators. The new research methods linked to technological advances (such as data mining) and the emergence of systems such as Open Access (OA) are currently under debate. These issues have generated legislative changes at the level of the European Union (EU) and its Member States. For this reason, it is relevant that the researchers know how to protect their work and the proper use of another’s work. Consequently, this research aims to identify the limitations of copyright in the EU and as a specific case in Spain, within the framework of scientific research. For this, the changes in the European and Spanish copyright regulations are analyzed. The results confirm new exceptions and limitations for researchers related to technological evolution, such as data mining. Additionally, the article incorporates several guidelines and implications for the scientific community.
The Catalogue of Spiritual Care Instruments: A Scoping Review
Authors: Damberg Nissen Ricko , Falkø Erik , Toudal Viftrup Dorte , Assing Hvidt Elisabeth , Søndergaard Jens , Büssing Arndt , Wallin Johan , Hvidt Niels
Published: May 2020

Spiritual care has been a growing focus in international healthcare research over the last decades. The approaches to spiritual care are many and derive from many different medical fields and different cultural contexts and often remain unknown across healthcare areas. This points to a potential knowledge gap between existing instruments and the knowledge and use of them cross-disciplinarily and cross-culturally, and thus best practice insights are not sufficiently shared. This article contributes to the growing field of spiritual care by providing an overview of the various approaches (henceforth instruments) to assess patients’ spiritual needs in view of improving spiritual care. This was done through a scoping review method. The results of the review were collected and catalogued and presented here as ‘The Catalogue of Spiritual Care Instruments’. The included instruments derive from a wide range of geographical contexts and healthcare areas and are aimed at patients and healthcare professionals alike, clearly showing that spiritual care is a focus in healthcare internationally. However, it also shows the difficulties of defining spiritual care, the importance of local contexts, and the difficulties of cross-cultural validity. The catalogue contains 182 entries and is available as an interactive platform for the further development of spiritual care internationally.
The AI Creation Meme: A Case Study of the New Visibility of Religion in Artificial Intelligence Discourse
Authors: Singler Beth
Published: May 2020

Through a consideration of examples of the AI Creation Meme, a remix of Michelangelo’s Creazione di Adamo featuring a human hand and a machine hand nearly touching, fingertip to fingertip, this article will tackle the religious continuities and resonances that still emerge in AI discourse in an allegedly ‘secular age’. The AI Creation Meme, as a highly visible cultural artefact appearing in a variety of forms and locations, will be analyzed and discussed for its religious, apocalyptic, and post-humanist narratives, along with reference to earlier work on the New Visibility of Religion—specifically, Alexander Darius Ornella’s consideration of the New Visibility of Religion and religious imagery of the 2006 film, Children of Men. Work that outlines the aspects of critical post-humanism, speculative post-humanism, and transhumanism in relation to the contemporary post-secular age will also be addressed to expand on the implicit apocalyptic messages of the AI Creation Meme. Such a consideration of repeating and remixed imagery will add to the scholarly conversation around AI narratives and the entanglements of religion and technology in our imaginaries of the future.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Organization of Religious Behaviour in Different Christian Denominations in Poland
Authors: Sulkowski Lukasz , Ignatowski Grzegorz
Published: May 2020

Any pandemic disorganizes the life of wider society. One of the manifestations of social activity is religious life. Despite progressing secularization, both religion, churches, and denominational associations have an impact on individual ethical choices and business decisions. This is true especially in Poland, where over 90 percent of the citizens declare affiliation with some religion, mostly Christian. The purpose of the present article is to demonstrate what activities are undertaken by churches in Poland at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, and what differences there are in their organization of religious life. In order to achieve the set goal, qualitative methods were implemented in the research. As part of the qualitative paradigm, in-depth individual interviews were used, involving individuals responsible for organizing religious life at the parish or congregation level. The interviewees were clergymen from the most important denominations, ranging from Catholic and Orthodox to broadly understood Protestant denominations. The paper contains a review of relevant literature. It presents the results and discussion of qualitative research, and it also indicates the research limitations. The study reveals that individual churches have limited (Catholic and Orthodox) or totally suspended (Protestants) their religious life in the actual community-based dimension. The decisions made by the clergymen, regardless of their personal views, resulted from the assumed ecclesiology and tradition. While changing the organization of religious life, the churches maintained contact with the believers in various ways, using modern technologies and access to public media in this regard. Although the churches are not changing their doctrinal positions, they declare different forms of cooperation.
Towards Urban Archaeo-Geophysics in Peru. The Case Study of Plaza de Armas in Cusco
Authors: Masini Nicola , Leucci Giovanni , Vera David , Sileo Maria , Pecci Antonio , Garcia Sayri , López Ronald , Holguín Henry , Lasaponara Rosa
Published: May 2020

One of the most complex challenges of heritage sciences is the identification and protection of buried archaeological heritage in urban areas and the need to manage, maintain and inspect underground services. Archaeology and geophysics, used in an integrated way, provide an important contribution to open new perspectives in understanding both the history of cities and in helping the decision makers in planning and governing the urban development and management. The problems of identification and interpretation of geophysical features in urban subsoil make it necessary to develop ad hoc procedures to be implemented and validated in significant case studies. This paper deals with the results of an interdisciplinary project in Cusco (Peru), the capital of Inca Empire, where the georadar method was applied for the first time in the main square. The georadar method was successfully employed based on knowledge of the historical evolution of Cusco and the availability of archaeological records provided by some excavations nearby the study area. Starting from a model for the electromagnetic wave reflection from archaeological structures and pipes, georadar results were interpreted by means of comparative morphological analysis of high amplitude values observed from time slices with reflectors visualized in the radargrams.
Wheelchair Neuro Fuzzy Control and Tracking System Based on Voice Recognition
Authors: Abdulghani Mokhles M. , Al-Aubidy Kasim M. , Ali Mohammed M. , Hamarsheh Qadri J.
Published: May 2020

Autonomous wheelchairs are important tools to enhance the mobility of people with disabilities. Advances in computer and wireless communication technologies have contributed to the provision of smart wheelchairs to suit the needs of the disabled person. This research paper presents the design and implementation of a voice controlled electric wheelchair. This design is based on voice recognition algorithms to classify the required commands to drive the wheelchair. An adaptive neuro-fuzzy controller has been used to generate the required real-time control signals for actuating motors of the wheelchair. This controller depends on real data received from obstacle avoidance sensors and a voice recognition classifier. The wheelchair is considered as a node in a wireless sensor network in order to track the position of the wheelchair and for supervisory control. The simulated and running experiments demonstrate that, by combining the concepts of soft-computing and mechatronics, the implemented wheelchair has become more sophisticated and gives people more mobility.