bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Invasive Algae Species as a Source of Secondary Metabolites and Biological Activities: Spain as Case-Study
Authors: Pereira Antia G. , Fraga-Corral Maria , Garcia-Oliveira Paula , Lourenço-Lopes Catarina , Carpena Maria , Prieto Miguel A. , Simal-Gandara Jesus
Published: March 2021

In the recent decades, algae have proven to be a source of different bioactive compounds with biological activities, which has increased the potential application of these organisms in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, animal feed, and other industrial sectors. On the other hand, there is a growing interest in developing effective strategies for control and/or eradication of invasive algae since they have a negative impact on marine ecosystems and in the economy of the affected zones. However, the application of control measures is usually time and resource-consuming and not profitable. Considering this context, the valorization of invasive algae species as a source of bioactive compounds for industrial applications could be a suitable strategy to reduce their population, obtaining both environmental and economic benefits. To carry out this practice, it is necessary to evaluate the chemical and the nutritional composition of the algae as well as the most efficient methods of extracting the compounds of interest. In the case of northwest Spain, five algae species are considered invasive: Asparagopsis armata, Codium fragile, Gracilaria vermiculophylla, Sargassum muticum, and Grateulopia turuturu. This review presents a brief description of their main bioactive compounds, biological activities, and extraction systems employed for their recovery. In addition, evidence of their beneficial properties and the possibility of use them as supplement in diets of aquaculture animals was collected to illustrate one of their possible applications.
Clinical Impact of Supraclavicular Lymph Node Involvement of Stage IIIC Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Park Sunmin , Yoon Won Sup , Jang Mi Hee , Rim Chai Hong
Published: March 2021

Background and Objective: Investigations on the clinical impact of supraclavicular lymph node (SCN) involvement in stage IIIC non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain scarce. We evaluated the oncological outcomes of definitive radiochemotherapy and the clinical significance of SCN involvement. Materials and Methods: Between November 2009 and June 2019, a total of 40 patients with N3-positivity and NSCLC were evaluated. Most patients received concomitant chemotherapy, but six patients who received radiotherapy (RT) alone were also included. Twenty-one patients (52.5%) received 3D-conformal RT (3DCRT), and the remainder received intensity-modulated RT (IMRT). Results: The median follow-up duration was 10.7 months (range: 1.7–120.6 months). Median overall survival (OS) and cause-specific survival (CSS) times were 10.8 months and 16.3 months, respectively. Among the 40 patients, 17 (42.5%) had SCN involvement. SCN involvement negatively affected progression-free survival (hazard ratio (HR): 2.08, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04–4.17, p = 0.039) and local control (HR: 3.05, 95% CI: 1.09–8.50, p = 0.034). However, IMRT use was correlated with higher local control (HR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09–0.86, p = 0.027). Grade ≥3 esophagitis and pneumonitis accounted for 7.5% and 15.0% of all cases, respectively. A higher RT dose (mean dose: 66.6 vs. 61.7 Gy) was significantly correlated with grade ≥3 pneumonitis (p = 0.001). RT modality was a significant factor (p = 0.042, five of six cases occurred in the IMRT group). Conclusions: SCN involvement could negatively affect oncologic outcomes of stage IIIC NSCLC patients. High-dose irradiation with IMRT could increase local control but may cause lung toxicities.
COVID-19 and Pneumocystis jirovecii Pulmonary Coinfection—The First Case Confirmed through Autopsy
Authors: Jeican Ionuț Isaia , Inișca Patricia , Gheban Dan , Tăbăran Flaviu , Aluaș Maria , Trombitas Veronica , Cristea Victor , Crivii Carmen , Junie Lia Monica , Albu Silviu
Published: March 2021

Background: Establishing the diagnosis of COVID-19 and Pneumocystisjirovecii pulmonary coinfection is difficult due to clinical and radiological similarities that exist between the two disorders. For the moment, fungal coinfections are underestimated in COVID-19 patients. Case presentation: We report the case of a 52-year-old male patient, who presented to the emergency department for severe dyspnea and died 17 h later. The RT-PCR test performed at his admission was negative for SARS-CoV-2. Retesting of lung fragments collected during autopsy revealed a positive result for SARS-CoV-2. Histopathological examination showed preexisting lesions, due to comorbidities, as well as recent lesions: massive lung thromboses, alveolar exudate rich in foam cells, suprapleural and intra-alveolar Pneumocystisjirovecii cystic forms, and bilateral adrenal hemorrhage. Conclusion: COVID-19 and P.jirovecii coinfection should be considered, particularly in critically ill patients, and we recommend the systematic search for P. jirovecii in respiratory samples.
What Is the Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Patients with Pre-Existing Mood or Anxiety Disorder? An Observational Prospective Study
Authors: Tundo Antonio , Betro’ Sophia , Necci Roberta
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives: This observational prospective study aims to examine the psychological and psychopathological impact of the pandemic stress on patients with pre-existing mood, anxiety and obsessive–compulsive disorders. Materials and Methods: The study includes 386 consecutive patients recruited from 10 March to 30 June 2020 among those being treated at the Institute of Psychopathology in Rome (Italy) with an age ≥18 years and meeting DSM-5 criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD) (35.2%), bipolar I (BD-I) (21.5%) or II (BD-II) (28.8%) disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) (7.5%), panic disorder (PD) (7.0%) or social anxiety (SA). A total of 34.2% had lifetime comorbid Axis I disorders and 15.3% had alcohol/drug abuse disorders. Using a semi-structured interview, we investigated if the impact of COVID-19 stress for patients has been similar, higher or lower than that of their family and friends and, for patients with relapse/symptoms worsening, if there was a relationship between the clinical condition worsening and the pandemic stress. Results: Compared with that experienced by their family members and friends, the psychological impact of pandemic stress was similar in 52.1% of the sample, better in 37.1% and worse in 10.8%. In 21 patients (5.4%), the stress triggered a recurrence or worsened the symptoms. Patients with OCD had a higher rate of worsening due to pandemic stress compared to patients with MDD (p = 0.033), although, overall, the χ2 test was not significant among primary diagnoses (χ2 = 8.368; p = 0.057). Conclusions: The psychological and psychopathological consequences of COVID-19 stress in our outpatients were very modest. The continuity of care offered during the lockdown could explain the results.
Trauma-Induced Coagulopathy: Overview of an Emerging Medical Problem from Pathophysiology to Outcomes
Authors: Savioli Gabriele , Ceresa Iride Francesca , Caneva Luca , Gerosa Sebastiano , Ricevuti Giovanni
Published: March 2021

Coagulopathy induced by major trauma is common, affecting approximately one-third of patients after trauma. It develops independently of iatrogenic, hypothermic, and dilutive causes (such as iatrogenic cause in case of fluid administration), which instead have a pejorative aspect on coagulopathy. Notwithstanding the continuous research conducted over the past decade on Trauma-Induced Coagulopathy (TIC), it remains a life-threatening condition with a significant impact on trauma mortality. We reviewed the current evidence regarding TIC diagnosis and pathophysiological mechanisms and summarized the different iterations of optimal TIC management strategies among which product resuscitation, potential drug administrations, and hemostatis-focused approaches. We have identified areas of ongoing investigation and controversy in TIC management.
Laser Welding of Grey Cast Iron with Spheroidal Graphite-Influence of Process Parameters on Crack Formation and Hardness
Authors: Sommer Niklas , Lehto John Michael , Völkers Stephan , Böhm Stefan
Published: March 2021

In the investigation at hand, sheets of ferritic and pearlitic grey cast iron with spheroidal graphite are welded using a fiber-laser. The influence of varying laser power and welding speed on the macroscopic characteristics of the weld seam and crack formation are analyzed and discussed. Substantial crack formation with crack densities of up to 2.93 cm−1 are found. Furthermore, hardness measurements are conducted to evaluate the formation of brittle phases within the weld metal and heat-affected zone. Peak hardness values of up to 860 HV0.3 and 975 HV0.3 are identified in EN-GJS-400-15 and EN-GJS-700-2, respectively. Subsequently, a proposition on the dependence of crack formation on weld seam width is given. Furthermore, the influence of nickel-containing filler material on the microstructure, crack formation and hardness is studied. It can be derived from the results that laser-beam welding of grey cast iron with spheroidal graphite requires further research in order to achieve crack-free weld seams and hinder the formation of undesirable, brittle phases.
Cyanide Hydratase Modification Using Computational Design and Docking Analysis for Improved Binding Affinity in Cyanide Detoxification
Authors: Malmir Narges , Fard Najaf Allahyari , Mgwatyu Yamkela , Mekuto Lukhanyo
Published: March 2021

Cyanide is a hazardous and detrimental chemical that causes the inactivation of the respiration system through the inactivation of cytochrome c oxidase. Because of the limitation in the number of cyanide-degrading enzymes, there is a great demand to design and introduce new enzymes with better functionality. This study developed an integrated method of protein-homology-modelling and ligand-docking protein-design approaches that reconstructs a better active site from cyanide hydratase (CHT) structure. Designing a mutant CHT (mCHT) can improve the CHT performance. A computational design procedure that focuses on mutation for constructing a new model of cyanide hydratase with better activity was used. In fact, this study predicted the three-dimensional (3D) structure of CHT for subsequent analysis. Inducing mutation on CHT of Trichoderma harzianum was performed and molecular docking was used to compare protein interaction with cyanide as a ligand in both CHT and mCHT. By combining multiple designed mutations, a significant improvement in docking for CHT was obtained. The results demonstrate computational capabilities for enhancing and accelerating enzyme activity. The result of sequence alignment and homology modeling show that catalytic triad (Cys-Glu-Lys) was conserved in CHT of Trichoderma harzianum. By inducing mutation in CHT structure, MolDock score enhanced from −18.1752 to −23.8575, thus the nucleophilic attack can occur rapidly by adding Cys in the catalytic cavity and the total charge of protein in pH 6.5 is increased from −6.0004 to −5.0004. Also, molecular dynamic simulation shows a stable protein-ligand complex model. These changes would help in the cyanide degradation process by mCHT.
Efficacy of Edible Bird’s Nest on Cognitive Functions in Experimental Animal Models: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ismail Maznah , Alsalahi Abdulsamad , Aljaberi Musheer Abdulwahid , Ibrahim Ramlah Mohamad , Bakar Faizah Abu , Ideris Aini
Published: March 2021

Edible bird’s nest (EBN) is constructed from saliva of swiftlets birds and consumed largely by Southeast and East Asians for its nutritional value and anti-aging properties. Although the neuroprotection of EBN in animals has been reported, there has not been yet systemically summarized. Thus, this review systemically outlined the evidence of the neuroprotective activity of EBN in modulating the cognitive functions of either healthy or with induced-cognitive dysfunction animals as compared to placebos. The related records from 2010 to 2020 were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and ScienceDirect using pre-specified keywords. The relevant records to the effect of EBN on cognition were selected according to the eligibility criteria and these studies underwent appraisal for the risk of bias. EBN improved the cognitive functions of induced-cognitive dysfunction and enhanced the cognitive performance of healthy animals as well as attenuated the neuroinflammations and neuro-oxidative stress in the hippocampus of these animals. Malaysian EBN could improve the cognitive functions of experimental animals as a treatment in induced cognitive dysfunction, a nutritional cognitive-enhancing agent in offspring and a prophylactic conservative effect on cognition against exposure to subsequent noxious cerebral accidents in a dose-depended manner through attenuating neuroinflammation and neuro-oxidative stress. This systemic review did not proceed meta-analysis.
Characterization of the Luminal and Mucosa-Associated Microbiome along the Gastrointestinal Tract: Results from Surgically Treated Preterm Infants and a Murine Model
Authors: Klymiuk Ingeborg , Singer Georg , Castellani Christoph , Trajanoski Slave , Obermüller Beate , Till Holger
Published: March 2021

Environmental factors, including nutritional habits or birth mode, are known key determinants for intestinal microbial composition. Investigations of the intestinal microbiome in different species in a multiplicity of studies during recent decades have revealed differential microbial patterns and quantities along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Characterization of the microbial pattern in various aspects is a prerequisite for nutritional interventions. In this 16S rRNA amplicon-based approach, we present a characterization of the mucosa-associated microbiome in comparison with the luminal community of four infants at the time of the closure of ileostomies and perform a systematic characterization of the corresponding luminal and mucosal microbiome from jejunal, ileal and colonic regions, as well as collected feces in mice. The most dominant taxa in infant-derived samples altered due to individual differences, and in the mucosa, Enterococcus, Clostridiumsensustricto1, Veillonella, Streptococcus and Staphylococcus were the most abundant. Two less abundant taxa differed significantly between the mucosa and lumen. In murine samples, relative abundances differed significantly, mainly between the intestinal regions. Significant differences between mouse mucosa- and lumen-derived samples could be found in the observed species with a trend to lower estimated diversity in mucosa-derived samples, as well as in the relative abundance of individual taxa. In this study, we examined the difference between the mucosal and luminal bacterial colonization of the gastrointestinal tract in a small sample cohort of preterm infants. Individual differences were characterized and statistical significance was reached in two taxa (Cupriavidus, Ralstonia). The corresponding study on the different murine intestinal regions along the GI tract showed differences all over the intestinal region.
Pathogenic Microenvironment from Diabetic–Obese Visceral and Subcutaneous Adipocytes Activating Differentiation of Human Healthy Preadipocytes Increases Intracellular Fat, Effect of the Apocarotenoid Crocetin
Authors: Alviz Lesgui , Tebar-García David , Lopez-Rosa Raquel , Galan-Moya Eva M. , Moratalla-López Natalia , Alonso Gonzalo L. , Nava Eduardo , Llorens Sílvia
Published: March 2021

In diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2), developed obesity is referred to as diabesity. Implementation of a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean, prevents diabesity. Saffron is frequently used in this diet because of its bioactive components, such as crocetin (CCT), exhibit healthful properties. It is well known that obesity, defined as an excessive accumulation of fat, leads to cardiometabolic pathology through adiposopathy or hypertrophic growth of adipose tissue (AT).This is related to an impaired adipogenic process or death of adipocytes by obesogenic signals. We aimed to evaluate the effect of the pathogenic microenvironment and CCT, activating differentiation of healthy preadipocytes (PA). For this, we used human cryopreserved PA from visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) depots obtained from healthy and obese-DM2 donors. We studied the effect of a metabolically detrimental (diabesogenic) environment, generated by obese-DM2 adipocytes from VAT (VdDM) or SAT (SdDM), on the viability and accumulation of intracellular fat of adipocytes differentiated from healthy PA, in the presence or absence of CCT (1 or 10 μM). Intracellular fat was quantified by Oil Red O staining. Cytotoxicity was measured using the MTT assay. Our results showed that diabesogenic conditions induce cytotoxicity and provide a proadipogenic environment only for visceral PA. CCT at 10 μM acted as an antiadipogenic and cytoprotective compound.
Multinutrient Biofortification of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Africa: Current Status, Opportunities and Limitations
Authors: Goredema-Matongera Nakai , Ndhlela Thokozile , Magorokosho Cosmos , Kamutando Casper N. , van Biljon Angeline , Labuschagne Maryke
Published: March 2021

Macro and micronutrient deficiencies pose serious health challenges globally, with the largest impact in developing regions such as subSaharan Africa (SSA), Latin America and South Asia. Maize is a good source of calories but contains low concentrations of essential nutrients. Major limiting nutrients in maize-based diets are essential amino acids such as lysine and tryptophan, and micronutrients such as vitamin A, zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe). Responding to these challenges, separate maize biofortification programs have been designed worldwide, resulting in several cultivars with high levels of provitamin A, lysine, tryptophan, Zn and Fe being commercialized. This strategy of developing single-nutrient biofortified cultivars does not address the nutrient deficiency challenges in SSA in an integrated manner. Hence, development of maize with multinutritional attributes can be a sustainable and cost-effective strategy for addressing the problem of nutrient deficiencies in SSA. This review provides a synopsis of the health challenges associated with Zn, provitamin A and tryptophan deficiencies and link these to vulnerable societies; a synthesis of past and present intervention measures for addressing nutrient deficiencies in SSA; and a discussion on the possibility of developing maize with multinutritional quality attributes, but also with adaptation to stress conditions in SSA.
Erratum: McKendry, J., et al. Nutritional Supplements to Support Resistance Exercise in Countering the Sarcopenia of Aging. Nutrients 2020, 12, 2057
Authors: McKendry James , Currier Brad S. , Lim Changhyun , Mcleod Jonathan C. , Thomas Aaron C. Q. , Phillips Stuart M.
Published: March 2021

The authors would like to correct an omission in a published paper [...]
Evaluating Self-Efficacy among Patients Undergoing Dialysis Therapy
Authors: Almutary Hayfa , Tayyib Nahla
Published: March 2021

(1) Background: Perceived disease-related self-efficacy is considered a fundamental component of the successful self-management of chronic diseases. Prior studies have found that self-efficacy is associated with improvements in health behaviors and health status among people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, few studies have evaluated self-efficacy among patients undergoing dialysis. (2) Methods: This study was performed to evaluate CKD patients’ self-efficacy and to determine the factors that significantly affect self-efficacy among dialysis patients. This was a cross-sectional study using a convenience sample of 190 patients undergoing dialysis. The patients’ self-efficacy was measured using the CKD Self-Efficacy Scale. Inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. (3) Results: The mean age of the participants was 49.24 ± 13.15 years. Almost half of them were males (48.4%), and 75.3% were married. The majority of the patients (83%) were undergoing hemodialysis. The total score for self-efficacy was 192.57 ± 39.23. Only occupational status and the type of dialysis were significantly and positively correlated with patients’ perceived self-efficacy scores. (4) Conclusions: This study provides primary evidence of the perceived self-efficacy among CKD patients who are on dialysis. The results of this cross-sectional study showed that greater self-efficacy was associated with employment and peritoneal dialysis. Strategies to enhance self-efficacy among dialysis patients, especially those on hemodialysis, are needed.
In Vitro Effects of Low Doses of β-Caryophyllene, Ascorbic Acid and d-Glucosamine on Human Chondrocyte Viability and Inflammation
Authors: Mattiuzzo Elena , Faggian Alessia , Venerando Rina , Benetti Andrea , Belluzzi Elisa , Abatangelo Giovanni , Ruggieri Pietro , Brun Paola
Published: March 2021

β-caryophyllene (BCP), a plant-derived sesquiterpene, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of BCP in combination with ascorbic acid (AA) and d-glucosamine (GlcN) against macrophage-mediated inflammation on in vitro primary human chondrocytes. Changes in cell viability, intracellular ROS generation, gene expression of pro-inflammatory mediators, metalloproteinases (MMPs), collagen type II and aggrecan were analyzed in primary human chondrocytes exposed to the conditioned medium (CM) of activated U937 monocytes and subsequently treated with BCP alone or in combination with AA and GlcN. The CM-induced chondrocyte cytotoxicity was reduced by the presence of low doses of BCP alone or in combination with AA and GlcN. The exposure of cells to CM significantly increased IL-1β, NF-κB1 and MMP-13 expression, but when BCP was added to the inflamed cells, alone or in combination with AA and GlcN, gene transcription for all these molecules was restored to near baseline values. Moreover, chondrocytes increased the expression of collagen type II and aggrecan when stimulated with AA and GlcN alone or in combination with BCP. This study showed the synergistic anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects of BCP, AA and GlcN at low doses on human chondrocyte cultures treated with the CM of activated U937 cells. Moreover, the combination of the three molecules was able to promote the expression of collagen type II and aggrecan. All together, these data could suggest that BCP, AA and GlcN exert a chondro-protective action.
Affibody-Derived Drug Conjugates Targeting HER2: Effect of Drug Load on Cytotoxicity and Biodistribution
Authors: Ding Haozhong , Xu Tianqi , Zhang Jie , Tolmachev Vladimir , Oroujeni Maryam , Orlova Anna , Gräslund Torbjörn , Vorobyeva Anzhelika
Published: March 2021

Affibody molecules hold great promise as carriers of cytotoxic drugs for cancer therapy due to their typically high affinity, easy production, and inherent control of the drug molecules’ loading and spatial arrangement. Here, the impact of increasing the drug load from one to three on the properties of an affibody drug conjugate targeting the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) was investigated. The affibody carrier was recombinantly expressed as a fusion to an albumin-binding domain (ABD) for plasma half-life extension. One or three cysteine amino acids were placed at the C-terminus to which cytotoxic mcDM1 molecules were conjugated. The resulting drug conjugates, ZHER2–ABD–mcDM1 and ZHER2–ABD–mcDM13, were characterized in vitro, and their biodistribution in mice carrying HER2-overexpressing SKOV3 xenografts was determined. Increasing the drug load from one to three led to a decrease in affinity for HER2, but a significantly more potent cytotoxic effect on SKOV3 cells with high HER2 expression. The difference in cytotoxic effect on other cell lines with high HER2 expression was not significant. In vivo, an increase in drug load led to a 1.45-fold higher amount of cytotoxic mcDM1 delivered to the tumors. The increase in drug load also led to more rapid hepatic clearance, warranting further optimization of the molecular design.
Stability of Pharmaceutical Co-Crystals at Humid Conditions Can Be Predicted
Authors: Veith Heiner , Zaeh Maximilian , Luebbert Christian , Rodríguez-Hornedo Naír , Sadowski Gabriele
Published: March 2021

Knowledge of the stability of pharmaceutical formulations against relative humidity (RH) is essential if they are to become pharmaceutical products. The increasing interest in formulating active pharmaceutical ingredients as stable co-crystals (CCs) triggers the need for fast and reliable in-silico predictions of CC stability as a function of RH. CC storage at elevated RH can lead to deliquescence, which leads to CC dissolution and possible transformation to less soluble solid-state forms. In this work, the deliquescence RHs of the CCs succinic acid/nicotinamide, carbamazepine/nicotinamide, theophylline/citric acid, and urea/glutaric acid were predicted using the Perturbed-Chain Statistical Associating Fluid Theory (PC-SAFT). These deliquescence RH values together with predicted phase diagrams of CCs in water were used to determine critical storage conditions, that could lead to CC instability, that is, CC dissolution and precipitation of its components. The importance of CC phase purity on RH conditions for CC stability is demonstrated, where trace levels of a separate phase of active pharmaceutical ingredient or of coformer can significantly decrease the deliquescence RH. The use of additional excipients such as fructose or xylitol was predicted to decrease the deliquescence RH even further. All predictions were successfully validated by stability measurements at 58%, 76%, 86%, 93%, and 98% RH and 25 °C.
Assessment of Pharmacist’s Knowledge and Perception toward 3D Printing Technology as a Dispensing Method for Personalized Medicine and the Readiness for Implementation
Authors: Algahtani Mohammed S.
Published: March 2021

The main user of three dimensional (3D) printing for drug dispensing will be the hospital pharmacist. Yet despite the tremendous amount of research and industrial initiatives, there is no evaluation of the pharmacist’s knowledge and opinion of this technology. The present study aimed to assess knowledge and attitude among pharmacists about 3D printing technology as an innovative dispensing method for personalized medicine and the barriers to implementation in Saudi Arabia. We found that 53% of participants were aware of 3D printing technology in general, but only 14–16% of pharmacists were aware of the specific application of 3D printing in drug dispensing. Participants showed a positive perception regarding the concept of personalized medicine and that 3D printing could provide a promising solution to formulate and dispense personalized medicine in the pharmacy. It was also found that 67% of pharmacists were encouraged to adopt this new technology for drug dispensing, reflecting their willingness to learn new innovations. However, the technology cost, regulation, and the shortage of practicing pharmacists were also reported as the top barriers for implementation. Facilitating the implementation of this technology in the pharmacy practice will require a strategic plan in which pharmacists collaborate with regulatory bodies and 3D printing engineers to overcome challenges and barriers to implement such promising technology.
On the Transmittance of Metallic Superlattices in the Optical Regime and the True Refraction Angle
Authors: Pereyra Pedro
Published: March 2021

Transmission of electromagnetic fields through (dielectric/metallic)n superlattices, for frequencies below the plasma frequency ωp, is a subtle and important topic that is reviewed and further developed here. Recently, an approach for metallic superlattices based on the theory of finite periodic systems was published. Unlike most, if not all, of the published approaches that are valid in the n→∞ limit, the finite periodic systems approach is valid for any value of n, allows one to determine analytical expressions for scattering amplitudes and dispersion relations. It was shown that, for frequencies below ωp, large metallic-layer thickness, and electromagnetic fields moving along the so-called “true” angle, anomalous results with an apparent parity effect appear. We show here that these results are related to the lack of unitarity and the underlying phenomena of absorption and loss of energy. To solve this problem we present two compatible approaches, both based on the theory of finite periodic systems, which is not only more accurate, but has also the ability to reveal and predict the intra-subband resonances. In the first approach we show that by keeping complex angles, above and below ωp, the principle of flux conservation is fully satisfied. The results above ωp remain the same as in Pereyra (2020). This approach, free of assumptions, where all the information of the scattering process is preserved, gives us insight to improve the formalism where the assumption of electromagnetic fields moving along the real angles is made. In fact, we show that by taking into account the induced currents and the requirement of flux conservation, we end up with an improved approach, with new Fresnel and transmission coefficients, fully compatible with those of the complex-angle approach. The improved approach also allows one to evaluate the magnitude of the induced currents and the absorbed energy, as functions of the frequency and the superlattice parameters. We show that the resonant frequencies of intra-subband plasmons, which may be of interest for applications, in particular for biosensors, can be accurately determined. We also apply the approach for the transmission of electromagnetic wave packets, defined in the optical domain, and show that the predicted space-time positions agree extremely well with the actual positions of the wave packet centroids.
Multivariate Interaction Analysis of Winter Wheat Grown in Environment of Limited Soil Conditions
Authors: Ljubičić Nataša , Popović Vera , Ćirić Vladimir , Kostić Marko , Ivošević Bojana , Popović Dragana , Pandžić Miloš , El Musafah Seddiq , Janković Snežana
Published: March 2021

The less productive soils present one of the major problems in wheat production. Because of unfavorable conditions, halomorphic soils could be intensively utilized using ameliorative measures and by selecting suitable stress tolerant wheat genotypes. This study examined the responses of ten winter wheat cultivars on stressful conditions of halomorphic soil, solonetz type in Banat, Serbia. The wheat genotypes were grown in field trails of control and treatments with two soil amelioration levels using phosphor gypsum, in amounts of 25 and 50 tha−1. Across two vegetation seasons, phenotypic variability and genotype by environment interaction (GEI) for yield traits of wheat were studied. The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) models were used to study the GEI. AMMI analyses revealed significant genotype and environmental effects, as well as GEI effect. Analysis of GEI using the IPCA (Interaction Principal Components) analysis showed a statistical significance of the first two main components, IPCA1 and IPCA2 for yield, which jointly explained 70% of GEI variation. First source of variation IPCA1 explained 41.15% of the GEI for the grain weight per plant and 78.54% for the harvest index. The results revealed that wheat genotypes responded differently to stressful conditions and ameliorative measures.
A Root Tip-Specific Expressing Anthocyanin Marker for Direct Identification of Transgenic Tissues by the Naked Eye in Symbiotic Studies
Authors: Ruan Yiting , Chen Ke , Su Yangyang , Jiang Suyu , Xu Ping , Murray Jeremy D.
Published: March 2021

The Agrobacterium rhizogenes hairy root transformation system is widely used in symbiotic studies of model legumes. It typically relies on fluorescent reporters, such as DsRed, for identification of transgenic roots. The MtLAP1 transcription factor has been utilized as a reporter system in Medicago truncatula based on production of anthocyanin pigment. Here, we describe a version of this reporter driven by a root-cap specific promoter for direct observation of anthocyanin accumulation in root tips, which allows the identification of transgenic hairy roots by the naked eye. Results from our analysis suggest that the reporter had no significant effects on nodulation of M. truncatula. This approach, by virtue of its strong and specific expression in root cap cells, greatly reduces false positives and false negatives, and its use of an easily scored visible pigment should allow greater versatility and efficiency in root biology studies.
Coordination of Cyclic Electron Flow and Water–Water Cycle Facilitates Photoprotection under Fluctuating Light and Temperature Stress in the Epiphytic Orchid Dendrobium officinale
Authors: Sun Hu , Shi Qi , Zhang Shi-Bao , Huang Wei
Published: March 2021

Photosystem I (PSI) is the primary target of photoinhibition under fluctuating light (FL). Photosynthetic organisms employ alternative electron flows to protect PSI under FL. However, the understanding of the coordination of alternative electron flows under FL at temperature stresses is limited. To address this question, we measured the chlorophyll fluorescence, P700 redox state, and electrochromic shift signal in leaves of Dendrobium officinale exposed to FL at 42 °C, 25 °C, and 4 °C. Upon a sudden increase in illumination at 42 °C and 25 °C, the water–water cycle (WWC) consumed a significant fraction of the extra reducing power, and thus avoided an over-reduction of PSI. However, WWC was inactivated at 4 °C, leading to an over-reduction of PSI within the first seconds after light increased. Therefore, the role of WWC under FL is largely dependent on temperature conditions. After an abrupt increase in light intensity, cyclic electron flow (CEF) around PSI was stimulated at any temperature. Therefore, CEF and WWC showed different temperature responses under FL. Furthermore, the enhancement of CEF and WWC at 42 °C quickly generated a sufficient trans-thylakoid proton gradient (ΔpH). The inactivation of WWC at 4 °C was partially compensated for by an increased CEF activity. These findings indicate that CEF and WWC coordinate to protect PSI under FL at temperature stresses.
Drought Intensity-Responsive Salicylic Acid and Abscisic Acid Crosstalk with the Sugar Signaling and Metabolic Pathway in Brassica napus
Authors: Park Sang-Hyun , Lee Bok-Rye , La Van Hien , Mamun Md Al , Bae Dong-Won , Kim Tae-Hwan
Published: March 2021

The aim of this study was to characterize hormonal crosstalk with the sugar signaling and metabolic pathway based on a time course analysis of drought intensity. Drought intensity-responsive changes in the assimilation of newly fixed carbon (C) into soluble sugar, the content of sugar and starch, and expression of genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism were interpreted as being linked to endogenous abscisic acid (ABA) and salicylic acid (SA) levels and their signaling genes. The ABA and SA levels in the drought-stressed leaves increased together during the early drought period (days 0–6), and additional ABA accumulation occurred with depressed SA during the late period (days 6–14). Although drought treatment decreased the assimilation of newly fixed C into soluble sugar, representing a 59.9%, 33.1%, and 62.9% reduction in 13C-glucose, 13C-fructose, and 13C-sucrose on day 14, respectively, the drought-responsive accumulation of soluble sugars was significant. During the early period, the drought-responsive accumulation of hexose and sucrose was concurrent with the upregulated expression of hexokinase 1 (HXK1), which, in turn, occurred parallel to the upregulation of ABA synthesis gene 9-sis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase (NCED3) and SA-related genes (isochorismate synthase 1 (ICS1) and non-expressor of pathogenesis-related gene (NPR1)). During the late period, hexose accumulation, sucrose phloem loading, and starch degradation were dominant, with a highly enhanced expression of the starch degradation-related genes β-amylase 1 (BAM1) and α-amylase 3 (AMY3), which were concomitant with the parallel enhancement of sucrose non-fermenting−1 (Snf1)-related protein kinase 2 (SnRK2).2 and ABA-responsive element binding 2 (AREB2) expression in an ABA-dependent manner. These results indicate that the drought-responsive accumulation of sugars (especially SA-mediated sucrose accumulation) is part of the acclamatory process during the early period. Conversely, ABA-responsive hexose accumulation and sucrose phloem loading represent severe drought symptoms during the late drought period.
Restrained Stress Development in Hardening Mortar Internally Cured with Superabsorbent Polymers under Autogenous and Drying Conditions
Authors: Yeon Jung Heum
Published: March 2021

This study reports the results of a series of experiments, particularly paying attention to the early-age behavior and response of hardening mortars incorporating different types and contents of superabsorbent polymer (SAP) under autogenous (sealed) and drying shrinkage (unsealed) conditions. To achieve this primary aim, the effects of SAP type (i.e., cross-linking density and grain size) and content on the internal relative humidity (IRH) changes and corresponding free shrinkage behavior, restrained stress development, and cracking potential of the mortar were extensively measured and analyzed, along with their strength and set time properties. The results of this study have shown that the internal curing (IC) via SAP effectively counteracted the early-age residual stress build-up due to autogenous shrinkage, as many other former studies described. No or little tensile residual stresses due to autogenous shrinkage took place when more than 0.4% SAP was added, regardless of the SAP type. However, it should be mentioned that the addition of SAP, irrespective of its content and type, hardly improved the shrinkage cracking resistance of the mortar when directly exposed to drying environment at early ages.
Gram Scale Synthesis of Dual-Responsive Dendritic Polyglycerol Sulfate as Drug Delivery System
Authors: Reisbeck Felix , Ozimkovski Alexander , Cherri Mariam , Dimde Mathias , Quaas Elisa , Mohammadifar Ehsan , Achazi Katharina , Haag Rainer
Published: March 2021

Biocompatible polymers with the ability to load and release a cargo at the site of action in a smart response to stimuli have attracted great attention in the field of drug delivery and cancer therapy. In this work, we synthesize a dual-responsive dendritic polyglycerol sulfate (DR-dPGS) drug delivery system by copolymerization of glycidol, ε-caprolactone and an epoxide monomer bearing a disulfide bond (SSG), followed by sulfation of terminal hydroxyl groups of the copolymer. The effect of different catalysts, including Lewis acids and organic bases, on the molecular weight, monomer content and polymer structure was investigated. The degradation of the polymer backbone was proven in presence of reducing agents and candida antarctica Lipase B (CALB) enzyme, which results in the cleavage of the disulfides and ester bonds, respectively. The hydrophobic anticancer drug Doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded in the polymer and the kinetic assessment showed an enhanced drug release with glutathione (GSH) or CALB as compared to controls and a synergistic effect of a combination of both stimuli. Cell uptake was studied by using confocal laser scanning microscopy with HeLa cells and showed the uptake of the Dox-loaded carriers and the release of the drug into the nucleus. Cytotoxicity tests with three different cancer cell lines showed good tolerability of the polymers of as high concentrations as 1 mg mL−1, while cancer cell growth was efficiently inhibited by DR-dPGS@Dox.
Rice Husk Ash/Silicone Rubber-Based Binary Blended Geopolymer Coating Composite: Fire Retardant, Moisture Absorption, Optimize Composition, and Microstructural Analysis
Authors: Mohd Basri Mohd Salahuddin , Yek Tee Hui , A. Talib Rosnita , Mohamed Amin Tawakkal Intan Syafinaz , Kamarudin Siti Hasnah , Mazlan Norkhairunnisa , Maidin Nurul Ain , Ab Rahman Mohd Hidayat
Published: March 2021

Geopolymer coating using rice husk ash (RHA) as the aluminosilicate source has shown excellent fire retardant properties. However, incorporation of rice husk ash into the geopolymer matrix increased water absorption properties of the polymer composite. As such, silicone rubber (SiR) was introduced to improve the moisture absorption and fire retardant properties of the composite. Additionally, the less efficient one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) approach was conventionally used in past studies on the RHA-based geopolymer composite. In understanding the optimum value and significant effect of factors on the fire retardant and moisture absorption properties of the binary blended geopolymer coating composite, the use of statistical analysis and regression coefficient model (mathematical model) was considered essential. The objectives of this study are to identify the significant effect of factors on moisture absorption and fire retardant properties, to determine the optimum composition, and to study the microstructure of the rice husk ash/silicone rubber (RHA/SiR)-based binary blended geopolymer coating composite. The RHA/AA and SiR/Ge ratios were chosen as factors, and the response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to design experiments and conduct analyses. Fire retardant and moisture absorption tests were conducted. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to observe the microstructure of geopolymer samples. The RHA/alkaline activator (AA) and SiR/Ge ratios were shown to have a significant effect on the responses (temperature at equilibrium and moisture absorption). The high ratio of RHA/AA and SiR/Ge resulted in a lower temperature at equilibrium (TAE) below 200°C and at moisture absorption below 16%. The optimum formulation for the geopolymer coating composite can be achieved when the RHA/AA ratio, SiR/Ge ratio, and sodium hydroxide concentration are set at 0.85, 0.70, and 14 M, respectively. SEM micrographs of samples with good fire retardant properties showed that the char residue of the geopolymer composite coating, which is a layer of excess silicone rubber, is porous and continuous, thus providing a shielding effect for the layer of geopolymer underneath. The sample with good moisture absorption showed the formation of a thin outer layer of silicone rubber without any cracks. The unreacted SiR formed a thin layer beneath the geopolymer composite matrix providing a good moisture barrier.
High Power Cathodes from Poly(2,2,6,6-Tetramethyl-1-Piperidinyloxy Methacrylate)/Li(NixMnyCoz)O2 Hybrid Composites
Authors: Dolphijn Guillaume , Gauthy Fernand , Vlad Alexandru , Gohy Jean-François
Published: March 2021

Lithium-ion batteries are today among the most efficient devices for electrochemical energy storage. However, an improvement of their performance is required to address the challenges of modern grid management, portable technology, and electric mobility. One of the most important limitations to solve is the slow kinetics of redox reactions associated to inorganic cathodic materials, directly impacting on the charging time and the power characteristics of the cells. In sharp contrast, redox polymers such as poly(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy methacrylate) (PTMA) exhibit fast redox reaction kinetics and pseudocapacitors characteristics. In this contribution, we have hybridized high energy Li(NixMnyCoz)O2 mixed oxides (NMC) with PTMA. In this hybrid cathode configuration, the higher voltage NMC (ca. 3.7 V vs. Li/Li+) is able to transfer its energy to the lower voltage PTMA (3.6 V vs. Li/Li+) improving the discharge power performances and allowing high power cathodes to be obtained. However, the NMC-PTMA hybrid cathodes show an important capacity fading. Our investigations indicate the presence of an interface degradation reaction between NMC and PTMA transforming NMC into an electrochemically dead material. Moreover, the aqueous process used here to prepare the cathode is also shown to enable the degradation of NMC. Indeed, once NMC is immersed in water, alkaline surface species dissolve, increasing the pH of the slurry, and corroding the aluminum current collector. Additionally, the NMC surface is altered due to delithiation which enables the interface degradation reaction to take place. This reaction by surface passivation of NMC particles did not succeed in preventing the interfacial degradation. Degradation was, however, notably decreased when Li(Ni0.8Mn0.1Co0.1)O2 NMC was used and even further when alumina-coated Li(Ni0.8Mn0.1Co0.1)O2 NMC was considered. For the latter at a 20C discharge rate, the hybrids presented higher power performances compared to the single constituents, clearly emphasizing the benefits of the hybrid cathode concept.
Enzyme-Assisted Method for Phycobiliproteins Extraction from Porphyra and Evaluation of Their Bioactivity
Authors: Huang Chung-Hsiung , Chen Wei-Chen , Gao Yu-Huei , Chen Guan-Wen , Lin Hong-Ting Victor , Pan Chorng-Liang
Published: March 2021

Due to the poor protein availability of algae in their unprocessed form, development of extraction methods for phycobiliproteins is of great significance. This study aimed to extract phycoerythrin (PE) and phycocyanin (PC) from Porphyra via bacterial enzymatic hydrolysis and to evaluate their bioactivity. To induce enzyme production, Porphyra powder was added into the culture medium of two marine bacterial strains. The pH and enzyme activity of the cultured supernatant, namely crude enzyme solution, were significantly raised. For PE and PC extraction, Porphyra were incubated within crude enzyme solution with homogenization and ultrasonication followed by ultrafiltration process. After distinguishing by fast performance liquid chromatography (FPLC), three major fractions were observed and identified as R-PE, R-PC and small molecular PE by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) analysis. With respect to bioactivity, these three fractions exhibited free radical scavenging and antioxidant activities in a various degree. In addition, the angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity of both R-PE and R-PC fractions was observed in a concentration-dependent manner. Taken together, the employed process of bacterial enzymatic hydrolysis is suggested to be a feasible method to obtain PE and PC from Porphyra without limiting their bioactivity.
Development of Strategies for AOB and NOB Competition Supported by Mathematical Modeling in Terms of Successful Deammonification Implementation for Energy-Efficient WWTPs
Authors: Sharif Shourjeh Mehdi , Kowal Przemysław , Lu Xi , Xie Li , Drewnowski Jakub
Published: March 2021

Novel technologies such as partial nitritation (PN) and partial denitritation (PDN) could be combined with the anammox-based process in order to alleviate energy input. The former combination, also noted as deammonification, has been intensively studied in a frame of lab and full-scale wastewater treatment in order to optimize operational costs and process efficiency. For the deammonification process, key functional microbes include ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and anaerobic ammonia oxidation bacteria (AnAOB), which coexisting and interact with heterotrophs and nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB). The aim of the presented review was to summarize current knowledge about deammonification process principles, related to microbial interactions responsible for the process maintenance under varying operational conditions. Particular attention was paid to the factors influencing the targeted selection of AOB/AnAOB over the NOB and application of the mathematical modeling as a powerful tool enabling accelerated process optimization and characterization. Another reviewed aspect was the potential energetic and resources savings connected with deammonification application in relation to the technologies based on the conventional nitrification/denitrification processes.