bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Effect of the Distances between Coal and Wood Particles during Their Joint Pyrolysis on Sulfur Oxides Formation
Authors: Yankovsky Stanislav , Tolokol’nikov Anton , Misyukova Albina , Kuznetsov Geniy
Published: December 2021

The simultaneous pyrolysis of coal with wood was experimentally found to allow reducing concentrations of sulfur-containing substances in gases released. The objective of experimental studies is comparison of the sulphate of calcium and aluminum in the ash of coal-wood mixtures after pyrolysis of the latter in a dense “packing” of aggregate particles of these two fuels and at a few millimeters distance between particles. The 3B-grade lignite, T-grade bituminous coal and pinewood sawmill waste were chosen as feedstocks for pyrolysis experiments because they are widespread in Russia as well as many other countries. The elemental composition of all raw materials and pyrolysis residues was determined. The inorganic composition of obtained pyrolysis product in the solid phase was characterized by X-ray analysis. The content of aluminum and calcium sulfate in residue in case of simultaneous processing of coal with wood was found to be higher, compared to the processing of coal only (within the random errors of the experiment), than those established for such mixtures under conditions of dense “packing” of large masses (up to 15 g).
Sand Trapping Fences as a Nature-Based Solution for Coastal Protection: An International Review with a Focus on Installations in Germany
Authors: Eichmanns Christiane , Lechthaler Simone , Zander Wiebke , Pérez Mariana Vélez , Blum Holger , Thorenz Frank , Schüttrumpf Holger
Published: December 2021

Sand trapping fences are a widely used nature-based solution to initiate dune toe growth along sandy shorelines for coastal protection. At present, the construction of sand trapping fences is based on empirical knowledge, since only a few scientific studies investigating their efficiency exist. However, the restoration and maintenance of beach-dune systems along the coast requires knowledge of the interaction between the beach-dune system and the sand trapping fences to provide guidance for coastal managers on how and where to install the fences. First, this review gives an overview of the typical aerodynamic and morphodynamic conditions around a single porous fence and the influence of various fence height and porosity values to understand the physical processes during dune establishment. Second, different approaches for evaluating the efficiency of sand trapping fences to trap sediment are described. This review then highlights significant differences between sand trapping fence configurations, nationally as well as internationally, regarding the arrangement, the materials used, and the height and porosity. In summary, it is crucial to enable an intensive exchange among the respective coastal authorities in order to create uniform or transferable guidelines taking local conditions into account, and thus work collaboratively on the idea of sand trapping fences as a nature-based solution in coastal areas worldwide.
Evaluation of Attractant Composition, Application Rate, and Trap Type for Potential Mass Trapping of Ips typographus (L.)
Authors: Heber Tobias , Helbig Christiane E. , Osmers Sören , Müller Michael G.
Published: December 2021

This study focused on elucidating the possibilities of improving current trapping methods for Ips typographus (Linnaeus, 1758). Three field experiments were conducted simultaneously in one study area in the German federal state of Saxony. A comparison of six different commercial attractants revealed a significant superiority of Typosan®, especially for adult beetles after hibernation in the phase of their first swarming. It also attracted fewer individuals of Thanasimus spp. than the other highly attractive products Pheroprax® and IT Ecolure Extra®. Increasing the Pheroprax® application rate by using four instead of one dispenser in a single trap increased the total catch of I. typographus only by 15.5%. In contrast, Thanasimus spp. catch increased by 195.5% when four dispensers were used. A test of different trap types showed a species-specific catching capability, with the 12-funnel WitaTrap® being the most effective in catching I. typographus. The quantity of Thanasimus spp. bycatch in multiple-funnel traps demonstrated the necessity of a selective mechanism to minimize impacts on predator populations. Although we were not able to identify new milestones towards mass trapping, this study contributes to necessary improvements of current trapping methods. Especially in future stands with a smaller share of Norway spruce (Picea abies Karsten, 1881) the weakened beetle population in spring could be effectively reduced by properly conducted mass trapping.
Impacts of Climate Change on Tree Physiology and Responses of Forest Ecosystems
Authors: Fotelli Mariangela N.
Published: December 2021

In a changing climate, forest trees have to deal with a range of altered environmental conditions [...]
Simulating the Effects of Thinning Events on Forest Growth and Water Services Asks for Daily Analysis of Underlying Processes
Authors: Yousefpour Rasoul , Djahangard Marc
Published: December 2021

Forest growth function and water cycle are affected by climatic conditions, making climate-sensitive models, e.g., process-based, crucial to the simulation of dynamics of forest and water interactions. A rewarded and widely applied model for forest growth analysis and management, 3PG, is a physiological process-based forest stand model that predicts growth. However, the model runs on a monthly basis and uses a simple soil-water module. Therefore, we downscale the temporal resolution to operate daily, improve the growth modifiers and add a responsive hydrological sub-model to represents the key features of a snow routine, a detailed soil-water model and a separated soil-evaporation calculation. Thereby, we aim to more precisely analyze the effects of thinning events on forest productivity and water services. The novel calibrated 3PG-Hydro model was validated in Norway spruce sites in Southern Germany and confirmed improvements in building forest processes (evapotranspiration) and predicting forest growth (biomass, diameter, volume), as well as water processes and services (water recharge). The model is more sensitive to forest management measures and variability in soil water by (1) individualization of each site’s soil, (2) simulation of percolation and runoff processes, (3) separation of transpiration and evapotranspiration to predict good evapotranspiration even if high thinning is applied, (4) calculation in daily time steps to better simulate variation and especially drought and (5) an improved soil-water modifier. The new 3PG-Hydro model can, in general, better simulate forest growth (stand volume, average diameter), as well as details of soil and water processes after thinning events. The novel developments add complexity to the model, but the additions are crucial and relevant, and the model remains an easy-to-handle forest simulation tool.
Triterpenoids Biosynthesis Regulation for Leaf Coloring of Wheel Wingnut (Cyclocaryapaliurus)
Authors: Sun Caowen , Fang Shengzuo , Shang Xulan
Published: December 2021

Cyclocaryapaliurus leaves are rich in triterpenoids with positive results in the treatment of diabetes, antioxidation, and scavenging free radicals. C. paliurus red leaves have been found to contain higher flavonoids including anthocyanin, however, the triterpenoids accumulation pattern is still unclear. For the purpose of researching the triterpenoid accumulating mechanism during red new leaf development, transcriptome and metabolome analysis was conducted during C. paliurus the red leaf development process. The results uncovered that most triterpenoid ingredients were found to accumulate during leaves turning green, while the unique ingredients content including cyclocaric acid A, cyclocarioside I, cyclocarioside Ⅱand cyclocarioside Ⅲ decreased or remained unchanged. Functional structure genes (hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA synthase, hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase, and farnesyl-diphosphate synthase) were identified for promoting triterpenoids accumulation mainly in the mevalonic acid pathway (MVA). Moreover, glycosyltransferase (UGT73C, UGT85A, and UGT85K) was also found attributed to triterpenoids accumulation. These findings provide information for a better understanding of the triterpenoid biosynthesis mechanism during leaf development and will be useful for targeted breeding.
Household Willingness to Pay for Forest Ecological Restoration in Giant Panda Habitats: A Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Zhang Yijing , Wang Huihui , Duan Wei
Published: December 2021

Rural households have played an increasingly significant role in the conservation and restoration process of natural habitats. This paper explores rural households’ preference and willingness to pay for ecological restoration attributes in giant panda habitats using the discrete choice experiment (DCE). The DCE survey was conducted in and around giant panda habitats in Sichuan province with a sample size of 474. Using the mixed logit model, the results indicate that rural households have positive attitudes towards the improvement of ecological restoration functions, including forest vegetation restoration, biodiversity conservation, and giant panda corridor construction, but have a negative attitude towards payment, showing that rural households are inclined to pay less to gain better restoration outcomes. Among the ecological restoration attributes, forest vegetation restoration (4.44 RMB) wins the highest payment value, indicating households’ preferences and priorities of ecological restoration. In general, rural households’ willingness to pay could reach 34.28 RMB for the best choice option designed in DCE. This study emphasizes the awareness of payment among rural households to improve ecological restoration functions in giant panda habitats and indicates the importance of household participation in long-term adaptation and implementation of ecological conservation plans.
Perceptions of Biosecurity-Based Accreditation in the Plant Trade: A UK Example
Authors: Marzano Mariella , Dunn Michael , Green Sarah
Published: December 2021

It is widely acknowledged that a major threat to tree health biosecurity comes from trade, particularly through the importation of containerised live plants and associated growing media. Nurseries can collectively play a key role in mitigating pests and diseases through attention to their daily practices (e.g., procuring plants, storage and management). More widespread adoption of best practices in the sector could be promoted through the introduction of a UK-wide accreditation scheme. However, the success of such a scheme would depend not only on its uptake by nurseries but also on the attitudes of key consumers in the plant supply chain. To date, the perspectives of the nursery sector on the feasibility of plant biosecurity, as well as the sensitivity of these sectors to consumer opinion, have remained under-researched. Using the COM-B [Capability, Opportunity, Motivation—Behaviour] model as a framework, we draw on qualitative results to assess the appetite for a hypothetical accreditation scheme amongst UK nurseries and the capability, opportunities and motivations to enhance their biosecurity practices. Nineteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with plant nurseries and 22 with their consumers. Overall a plant health accreditation scheme should have actions that are: (1) viable within the confines of the site and supply chain; (2) affordable where the benefits of changes/improvements outweigh the costs; (3) beneficial in that they promote biosecurity; (4) attractive to consumers looking to purchase products from accredited nurseries; (5) fair and inclusive where everyone has responsibility for biosecurity; (6) transparent with the scheme involving a strong monitoring and auditing component. This study provides important insights that will feed into the development of plant biosecurity-focussed accreditation or certification.
Hydrological Droughts in the Białowieża Primeval Forest, Poland, in the Years 1951–2020
Authors: Hejduk Leszek , Kaznowska Ewa , Wasilewicz Michał , Hejduk Agnieszka
Published: December 2021

The occurrence of hydrological drought, caused by rainfall deficiency, poses a threat to forest areas—not only due to the danger of fire, but as a result of changes in habitat conditions. It is predicted that more frequent periods of drought and high temperatures will reduce the stability of forests and increase their susceptibility to industrial pollution, pressure from insect pests, fungal pathogens, and fires. The main aim of this study was to investigate the current streamflow droughts in the catchment area of the Narewka River as an indicator of hydrological droughts in the Białowieża Primeval Forest for the period 1951–2020. The research presented in this paper shows that low flows of surface waters have appeared as an indicator of hydrological droughts almost every year since 1983. The analysis of the trend over the past 70 years shows that the aggregated annual volumes of low flows and the number of days with low flows are increasing significantly. This indicates a significant and relatively permanent change in the seasonal structure of the river runoff in the event of low summer flow.
Studies on Proximate Composition, Mineral and Total Phenolic Content of Yogurt Bites Enriched with Different Plant Raw Material
Authors: Kulaitienė Jurgita , Vaitkevičienė Nijolė , Levickienė Dovilė
Published: December 2021

Yogurt products are consumed by millions of people every day. Consumers’ priority for ready-to-eat yogurt snacks enriched with various plant raw materials have increased each year. Therefore, the aim of this study was to prepare freeze-dried yoghurt bites with the addition of powders of beetroot, mulberry leaves, nettle leaves and rosehip fruit and to investigate these raw materials’ influence on the proximate composition, mineral and total phenolic content. The moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrate and sugar content of the yogurt bites were established using standard methods: mineral composition—using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS); total phenolic content—by the spectrophotometric method. The results demonstrated that the addition of different raw material powders to the formulation of yogurt bites had no significant influence on carbohydrate, protein and total fat amounts. However, the incorporation of powders of beetroot, mulberry leaves, nettle leaves and rosehip fruit in yogurt bites allowed a significant increase of the amounts of all investigated minerals and total phenolic content of the manufactured bites. Among all investigated yogurt bites, the highest amounts of K, P, Mg, Fe and Zn were determined for yogurt bites enriched with nettle leaves. In conclusion, the enrichment of yogurt bites with freeze-dried plant raw material powders can increase amounts of selected minerals and total phenolic content.
Valorization of Macroalgae through Fermentation for Aquafeed Production: A Review
Authors: Ang Chun-Yao , Yong Annita Seok Kian , Azad Sujjat Al , Lim Leong-Seng , Zuldin Wahidatul Husna , Lal Mohammad Tamrin Mohamad
Published: December 2021

The increased development of aquaculture has resulted in increased demand for high-protein aquafeed. An increased demand for high-protein aquafeed means an increase in exploitation of unsustainable protein sources such as fishmeal for aquafeed production. Thus, alternative protein sources such as fermented macroalgae is explored. Fermented macroalgae had been tested as aquaculture diets in some studies, but with limited coverage in relation to aquaculture. Therefore, this review provides a new perspective regarding their nutritional qualities as aquaculture diets, and their impacts on growth performances of aquaculture animals.
Green Husk of Walnuts (Juglans regia L.) from Southern Italy as a Valuable Source for the Recovery of Glucans and Pectins
Authors: La Torre Chiara , Caputo Paolino , Plastina Pierluigi , Cione Erika , Fazio Alessia
Published: December 2021

Walnut green husk is an agricultural waste produced during the walnut (Juglans regia L.) harvest, that could be valued as a source of high-value compounds. In this respect, walnut green husks from two areas of Southern Italy (Montalto Uffugo and Zumpano), with different soil conditions, were investigated. Glucans and pectins were isolated from dry walnut husks by carrying out alkaline and acidic extractions, respectively, and then they were characterized by FT-IR, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The colorimetric method for the enzymatic measurement of α- and β-glucans was performed. The maximum total glucan yield was recovered from Montalto walnut husks (4.6 ± 0.2 g/100 g DM) with a β-glucan percentage (6.3 ± 0.4) higher than that calculated for Zumpano walnut husks (3.6 ± 0.5). Thermal analysis (DSC) confirmed the higher degree of crystallinity of glucans from Zumpano. The pectin content for Montalto husks was found to be 2.6 times that of Zumpano husks, and the esterification degree was more than 65%. The results suggested that J. regia L. green husks could be a source of glucans and pectins, whose content and morphological and thermal characteristics were influenced by different soil and climate conditions.
Reduction of Energy Consumption for Water Wells Rehabilitation. Technology Optimization
Authors: Omelyanyuk Maxim , Pakhlyan Irina , Bukharin Nikolay , El Hassan Mouhammad
Published: December 2021

Groundwater wells are widely used in the energy sector, including for drinking water supplies and as water source wells in the oil and gas industry to increase production of natural gas and petroleum. Water well clogging, which can happen to any well for various reasons, is a serious problem that can lead to increased power costs due to a higher head to the pump, a reduction in the flow rate and various drawdown issues. If rehabilitation procedures do not take place in time, this can result in permanent loss of the well, and a new well must be drilled, which is not a sustainable approach. Rehabilitation methods for water wells usually include mechanical and chemical treatments, and even though these methods are well established and have been used for many years we can still observe many abandoned wells which could be rehabilitated. In this study, sets of cavitation generators are developed and used in combination with common conic hydrodynamic nozzles. This combination reduces the pressure in the system and makes the cleaning setup much lighter and more mobile. The designed nozzles were successfully used in hydrodynamic cleaning of four water wells.
Extraction of Tangential Momentum and Normal Energy Accommodation Coefficients by Comparing Variational Solutions of the Boltzmann Equation with Experiments on Thermal Creep Gas Flow in Microchannels
Authors: Missoni Tommaso , Yamaguchi Hiroki , Graur Irina , Lorenzani Silvia
Published: December 2021

In the present paper, we provide an analytical expression for the first- and second-order thermal slip coefficients, σ1,T and σ2,T, by means of a variational technique that applies to the integrodifferential form of the Boltzmann equation based on the true linearized collision operator for hard-sphere molecules. The Cercignani-Lampis scattering kernel of the gas-surface interaction has been considered in order to take into account the influence of the accommodation coefficients (αt, αn) on the slip parameters. Comparing our theoretical results with recent experimental data on the mass flow rate and the slip coefficient for five noble gases (helium, neon, argon, krypton, and xenon), we found out that there is a continuous set of values for the pair (αt, αn) which leads to the same thermal slip parameters. To uniquely determine the accommodation coefficients, we took into account a further series of measurements carried out with the same experimental apparatus, where the thermal molecular pressure exponent γ has been also evaluated. Therefore, the new method proposed in the present work for extracting the accommodation coefficients relies on two steps. First of all, since γ mainly depends on αt, we fix the tangential momentum accommodation coefficient in such a way as to obtain a fair agreement between theoretical and experimental results. Then, among the multiple pairs of variational solutions for (αt, αn), giving the same thermal slip coefficients (chosen to closely approximate the measurements), we select the unique pair with the previously determined value of αt. The analysis carried out in the present work confirms that both accommodation coefficients increase by increasing the molecular weight of the considered gases, as already highlighted in the literature.
Qualitative Analysis of Langevin Integro-Fractional Differential Equation under Mittag–Leffler Functions Power Law
Authors: Almalahi Mohammed A. , Ghanim F. , Botmart Thongchai , Bazighifan Omar , Askar Sameh
Published: December 2021

This research paper intends to investigate some qualitative analysis for a nonlinear Langevin integro-fractional differential equation. We investigate the sufficient conditions for the existence and uniqueness of solutions for the proposed problem using Banach’s and Krasnoselskii’s fixed point theorems. Furthermore, we discuss different types of stability results in the frame of Ulam–Hyers by using a mathematical analysis approach. The obtained results are illustrated by presenting a numerical example.
Rational Approximations of Arbitrary Order: A Survey
Authors: Colín-Cervantes José Daniel , Sánchez-López Carlos , Ochoa-Montiel Rocío , Torres-Muñoz Delia , Hernández-Mejía Carlos Manuel , Sánchez-Gaspariano Luis Abraham , González-Hernández Hugo Gustavo
Published: December 2021

This paper deals with the study and analysis of several rational approximations to approach the behavior of arbitrary-order differentiators and integrators in the frequency domain. From the Riemann–Liouville, Grünwald–Letnikov and Caputo basic definitions of arbitrary-order calculus until the reviewed approximation methods, each of them is coded in a Maple 18 environment and their behaviors are compared. For each approximation method, an application example is explained in detail. The advantages and disadvantages of each approximation method are discussed. Afterwards, two model order reduction methods are applied to each rational approximation and assist a posteriori during the synthesis process using analog electronic design or reconfigurable hardware. Examples for each reduction method are discussed, showing the drawbacks and benefits. To wrap up, this survey is very useful for beginners to get started quickly and learn arbitrary-order calculus and then to select and tune the best approximation method for a specific application in the frequency domain. Once the approximation method is selected and the rational transfer function is generated, the order can be reduced by applying a model order reduction method, with the target of facilitating the electronic synthesis.
Hermite–Jensen–Mercer-Type Inequalities via Caputo–Fabrizio Fractional Integral for h-Convex Function
Authors: Vivas-Cortez Miguel , Saleem Muhammad Shoaib , Sajid Sana , Zahoor Muhammad Sajid , Kashuri Artion
Published: December 2021

Integral inequalities involving many fractional integral operators are used to solve various fractional differential equations. In the present paper, we will generalize the Hermite–Jensen–Mercer-type inequalities for an h-convex function via a Caputo–Fabrizio fractional integral. We develop some novel Caputo–Fabrizio fractional integral inequalities. We also present Caputo–Fabrizio fractional integral identities for differentiable mapping, and these will be used to give estimates for some fractional Hermite–Jensen–Mercer-type inequalities. Some familiar results are recaptured as special cases of our results.
Nonlocal Boundary Value Problems of Nonlinear Fractional (p,q)-Difference Equations
Authors: Neang Pheak , Nonlaopon Kamsing , Tariboon Jessada , Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Ahmad Bashir
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we study nonlinear fractional (p,q)-difference equations equipped with separated nonlocal boundary conditions. The existence of solutions for the given problem is proven by applying Krasnoselskii’s fixed-point theorem and the Leray–Schauder alternative. In contrast, the uniqueness of the solutions is established by employing Banach’s contraction mapping principle. Examples illustrating the main results are also presented.
Properties of the PVA-VAVTD KOH Blend as a Gel Polymer Electrolyte for Zinc Batteries
Authors: Velez Alisson A. Iles , Reyes Edwin , Diaz-Barrios Antonio , Santos Florencio , Fernández Romero Antonio J. , Tafur Juan P.
Published: December 2021

Rechargeable zinc-air batteries are promising for energy storage and portable electronic applications because of their good safety, high energy density, material abundance, low cost, and environmental friendliness. A series of alkaline gel polymer electrolytes formed from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and different amounts of terpolymer composed of butyl acrylate, vinyl acetate, and vinyl neodecanoate (VAVTD) was synthesized applying a solution casting technique. The thin films were doped with KOH 12M, providing a higher amount of water and free ions inside the electrolyte matrix. The inclusion of VAVTD together with the PVA polymer improved several of the electrical properties of the PVA-based gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs). X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and attenuated total reflectance- Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) tests, confirming that PVA chains rearrange depending on the VAVTD content and improving the amorphous region. The most conducting electrolyte film was the test specimen 1:4 (PVA-VAVTD) soaked in KOH solution, reaching a conductivity of 0.019 S/cm at room temperature. The temperature dependence of the conductivity agrees with the Arrhenius equation and activation energy of ~0.077 eV resulted, depending on the electrolyte composition. In addition, the cyclic voltammetry study showed a current intensity increase at higher VAVTD content, reaching values of 310 mA. Finally, these gel polymer electrolytes were tested in Zn–air batteries, obtaining capacities of 165 mAh and 195 mAh for PVA-T4 and PVA-T5 sunk in KOH, respectively, at a discharge current of −5 mA.
Transnational Cross-Border Family Ties: Diasporic Lives of Bangladeshis in Italy and Beyond
Authors: Morad Mohammad
Published: December 2021

The scope of this paper is to gain a better understanding of how Bangladeshi migrants in Italy maintain transnational family attachments, across multiple destinations, with the home country as well as with several host countries. The data comes from fieldwork in Northeast Italy. Research methods include in-depth interviews and participant observation. The findings reveal that a high proportion of Bangladeshi migrants maintain a variety of transnational and diasporic ties with their family and friends living in the country of origin and different European countries. These include family obligations, remittances, establishing businesses back home, visits and communication. They also preserve their national identity in this host society by maintaining cultural ways of belonging and through religious practices and involvement in Bangladeshi politics. The findings have also shown that Italian Bangladeshi families work to foster transnational family ties among the new generations born in Italy, who have little knowledge of their ancestral country. On a final note, this paper argues that transnational connections with the homeland play an important role in shaping the diasporic lives of Bangladeshis in Italy.
Aphids and Ants, Mutualistic Species, Share a Mariner Element with an Unusual Location on Aphid Chromosomes
Authors: Vela Jesús , Montiel Eugenia E. , Mora Pablo , Lorite Pedro , Palomeque Teresa
Published: December 2021

Aphids (Hemiptera, Aphididae) are small phytophagous insects. The aim of this study was to determine if the mariner elements found in the ant genomes are also present in Aphis fabae and Aphis hederae genomes and the possible existence of horizontal transfer events. Aphids maintain a relationship of mutualism with the ants. The close contact between these insects could favour horizontal transfer events of transposable elements. Myrmar mariner element isolated from Myrmica ruginodis and Tapinoma ibericum ants have also been found in the two Aphis species: A. fabae and A. hederae (Afabmar-Mr and Ahedmar-Mr elements). Besides, Afabmar-Mr could be an active transposon. Myrmar-like elements are also present in other insect species as well as in one Crustacean species. The phylogenetic study carried out with all Myrmar-like elements suggests the existence of horizontal transfer. Most aphids have 2n = 8 with a XX-X0 sex determination system. Their complicated life cycle is mostly parthenogenetic with sexual individuals only in autumn. The production of X0 males, originated by XX females which produce only spermatozoa with one X chromosome, must necessarily occur through specialized cytogenetic and molecular mechanisms which are not entirely known. In both aphid species, the mariner elements are located on all chromosomes, including the X chromosomes. However, on the two X chromosomes, no positive signals are detected in their small DAPI-negative telomere regions. The rDNA sites are located, as in the majority of Aphids species, on one of the telomere regions of each X chromosome. The hybridization patterns obtained by double FISH demonstrate that Afabmar-Mr and Ahedmar-Mr elements do not hybridize at the rDNA sites of their host species. Possible causes for the absence of these transposons in the rDNA genes are discussed, probably related with the X chromosome biology.
Intra- and Intermuscular Coherence and Body Acceleration Control in Older Adults during Bipedal Stance
Authors: Minamisawa Tadayoshi , Chiba Noboru , Suzuki Eizaburo
Published: December 2021

Our aim was to clarify the effect of aging on the coherence of electromyograms of plantar flexor pairs during bipedal stance and to clarify the relationship between coherence and center-of-mass acceleration (COMacc). The subjects were 16 adults and 18 older adults. Intra- and intermuscular coherence and phase analyses were used to analyze the muscle pairs of bilateral and unilateral plantar flexor muscle groups. The relationship between coherence value and anterior–posterior COMacc of the plantar flexor muscle pairs was also examined to determine whether the connectivity of the lower limb muscle pairs is functionally important. The older adults showed higher coherence in the frequency range of 0–4 Hz for muscle pairs than the younger adults. In phase analysis, the older adults showed a phase difference between bilateral heteronymous muscle pairs in the frequency range of 0–6 Hz, which was one of the characteristics not seen in the younger adults. Correlation analysis showed that all the muscle pairs were moderately correlated with COMacc in the older adults. Not only does aging affects the organization of the bilateral and unilateral postural muscle activity of the plantar flexors during bipedal stance, but such organization may also be related to the increased COMacc characteristics of older adults.
Direct Aulacaspis yasumatsui Infestation of Pre-Harvest Cycas Seeds Reduces Germination and Performance of Seedlings
Authors: Marler Thomas E.
Published: December 2021

The invasion of numerous countries by the armored scale Aulacaspis yasumatsui Takagi has caused widespread mortality of host Cycas species. Few studies have looked at reproductive biology responses of host plants to the herbivore. This study was conducted to determine the influence of direct Cycas seed integument infestation of A. yasumatsui on germination and seedling performance. An observational study in a Tinian ex situ Cycas micronesica K.D. Hill garden revealed that germination percentage was reduced two-thirds by heavy pre-harvest integument infestation, and more than half of the seedlings from infested seeds died in the nursery. Multi-year mortality of plants was six times greater for plants from habitats with infested seeds than for plants from minimally infested habitats. Stem height of nine-year-old plants from habitats with infested seeds was 64% of that of plants from habitats with un-infested seeds. A controlled study in a Philippine ex situ C. micronesica and Cycas edentata de Laub. garden corroborated these findings. Germination of infested seeds was about 30% of that for un-infested seeds. Seedling mortality in the nursery following experimental infestation of seed integuments with A. yasumatsui during seed maturation was about 50%, but was minimal for seedlings from un-infested seeds. These results indicate that limitations in regeneration and recruitment of host Cycas plants following A. yasumatsui herbivory may be partly due to the influence of direct seed infestations. Conservationists may use this new knowledge to improve in situ seed selection criteria and use prophylactic treatments to ensure lack of integument infestations for ex situ gardens.
Deciphering Resistance to Root-Knot Nematodes in Prunus for Rootstock Breeding: Sources, Genetics and Characterization of the Ma Locus
Authors: Esmenjaud Daniel
Published: December 2021

Root-knot nematode (RKN) species are predominant pests of crops, attacking stone fruit crops Prunus spp. under Mediterranean climate conditions worldwide. Natural resistance for rootstock breeding is a control method that is gaining interest as an alternative to the highly toxic nematicides. This review first reports an outline of the root-knot nematodes parasitizing stone fruit crops and the Prunus species and rootstocks. It then describes the main sources of resistance detected among the Prunus germplasm and focuses on the major resistance genes identified and their characteristics (spectrum, durability, histological mechanism, effect of temperature, interaction with other pests and diseases, etc.). In peach, besides the RMia reference gene, the new genes PkMi and Mf, also located on chromosome 2, need to be characterized regarding their spectrum and relationship. The two other Prunus reference genes, Ma from plum (complete spectrum) and RMja from almond (more restricted spectrum), are orthologs that belong to a TIR-NB-LRR (TNL) cluster on chromosome 7. The review finally summarizes the positional cloning of the Ma gene and the characterization of its unique TNL structure, encompassing a five-times repeated post-LRR domain. Deciphering how this structure is functionally involved in Ma’s remarkable biological properties is a real challenge for the future.
Physiochemical Changes of Mung Bean [Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek] in Responses to Varying Irrigation Regimes
Authors: Islam Mohammad Rafiqul , Kamal Mohd. Mostofa , Alam Mohammad Ashraful , Hossain Jamil , Soufan Walid , Skalicky Milan , Brestic Marian , Habib-ur-Rahman Muhammad , EL Sabagh Ayman , Islam Mohammad Sohidul
Published: December 2021

Mungbean is one of the most powerful pulses providing substantial protein for human diets and fixing N to the soil, improving nutritional food security and agricultural sustainability. The production of summer mungbean in the tropics and subtropics is adversely affected by drought due to water scarcity caused by various factors as well as lack of rainfall. Irrigation at different growth phases is not a suitable solution. An environmentally friendly and economically viable answer is a convenient irrigation management option that will be available to farmers together with drought-tolerant genotypes. The study considered to determine the effect of differences between drought-tolerant and drought susceptible genotypes on water productivity response and physiological traits in mung beans. To quantify seed yield-related to irrigation at different growth stages eventually to quickly determine the most appropriate irrigation stage. One water stress tolerant mung bean genotype (BMX-08010-2) and one sensitive genotype (BARI Mung-1) were grown in the field with four different irrigation schedules along with water stress conditions (no irrigation) under rain shelter at Regional Agricultural Research Station, BARI, Ishwardi, Pabna, Bangladesh. The experiment was laid out in split plots with three replications, with irrigation schedules assigned in the main plot and mung bean genotypes assigned in the side plots. Water use efficiency ranged from 3.79 to 4.68 kg ha−1 mm−1 depending on irrigation regime, and mung bean seed yield of mung bean Water stress decreased plant water status, photosynthetic pigment and membrane stability index, and increased proline soluble sugar content. Treatments that received irrigation during two or three phases (I3 or I4) gave significantly higher yields than those that received irrigation during only one stage (I1 and I2) with the lowest yield. While the yield obtained ranged between 1145.44 kg ha−1 with seasonal irrigation of 277 mm (I4) and 555.14 kg ha−1 without irrigation (I0). The flowering stage (I3) was recorded as the most sensitive growth stage with an 18.15% yield reduction compared to the treatment with triple irrigation (I4). Also, depending on the irrigation sources, at least two irrigation phases should be provided at the triple leaf stage (I2, i.e., 20 DAS) and at the flowering stage (I3, i.e., 35 DAS) to achieve the highest yield. Genotypes that maintained the higher performance of physicochemical traits under water stress provided higher seed yield and promoted drought tolerance. Therefore, these parameters can be used as physiological and biochemical markers to identify and develop superior genotypes suitable for drought-prone environments.
Foliar Application of Potassium Mitigates Salinity Stress Conditions in Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) through Reducing NaCl Toxicity and Enhancing the Activity of Antioxidant Enzymes
Authors: Naz Tayyaba , Mazhar Iqbal Muhammad , Tahir Muhammad , Hassan Montaser M. , Rehmani Muhammad Ishaq Asif , Zafar Mazhar Iqbal , Ghafoor Umber , Qazi Muhammad Akram , EL Sabagh Ayman , Sakran Mohamed I.
Published: December 2021

Agronomic biofortification is the purposeful utilization of mineral fertilizers to increase the concentration of desired minerals in edible plant parts for enhancing their dietary intake. It is becoming crucial to enhance the dietary intake of K for addressing hidden hunger and related health issues such as cardiac diseases and hypertension. This study was designed to enhance the potassium concentration in edible parts of spinach through its foliar application under saline environment. The salinity levels of electrical conductivity (EC) = 4, 6, and 8 dS m−1 were applied using sodium chloride (NaCl) along with control. The levels of K for foliar sprays were 5 and 10 mM, along with control. The present experiment was performed under two factorial arrangements in a completely randomized design (CRD). After 60 days of sowing, the crop was harvested. Data regarding growth, ionic, physiological, and biochemical parameters, i.e., shoot dry weight, relative water content, electrolyte leakage, total chlorophyll content, tissue sodium (Na) and K concentration, activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) were recorded and those were found to be significantly (p ≤ 0.05) affected by foliar application of K on spinach under saline conditions. The highest growth, physiological and biochemical responses of spinach were observed in response to foliar-applied K at 10 mM. It is concluded that agronomic bio-fortification by foliar use of K can be a useful strategy to increase tissue K intakes and minimize Na toxicity in the vegetables studied under saline conditions.
Pre-Harvest Application of Salicylic Acid, Abscisic Acid, and Methyl Jasmonate Conserve Bioactive Compounds of Strawberry Fruits during Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Darwish Omaima S. , Ali Marwa R. , Khojah Ebtihal , Samra Bassem N. , Ramadan Khaled M. A. , El-Mogy Mohamed M.
Published: December 2021

The short shelf-life and loss of bioactive compounds of strawberry fruit are the most important problems during strawberry refrigerated storage. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of the pre-harvest foliar application of salicylic acid (SA) (2 and 4 mM), abscisic acid (ABA) (0.25 and 0.50 mM), and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) (0.25 and 0.50 mM) three times, 10 d apart, at fruit development and ripening stages on storage ability and bioactive compounds of strawberry fruit (cv. Festival) stored at 4 °C for 12 d. Our results showed that fruit obtained from both concentrations of ABA and 0.25 mM MeJA was firmer and had higher total soluble solids (TSS) than fruit from non-treated plants. However, all previous applications had no significant effect on weight loss, pH, or color. Applications of 4 mM SA and 0.25 mM MeJA conserved fruit from ascorbic acid (AsA) loss compared to control at the end of the storage period. In addition, all pre-harvest applications remained higher in total phenolic compounds (TPC) and anthocyanin contents compared to controls at the last storage period. Hence, the pre-harvest application of SA, ABA, and MeJA could be used to conserve TPC and anthocyanin as well as the quality of strawberry fruits during refrigerated storage.
Quantifying the Costs to Different Funders over Five-Years for Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer in Queensland, Australia: A Data Linkage Study
Authors: Lindsay Daniel , Callander Emily
Published: December 2021

Individuals diagnosed with breast cancer have the highest rates of survival among all cancer types. Due to high survival, the costs of breast cancer to different healthcare funders are of interest. This study aimed to describe the cost to public hospital and private health funders and individuals due to hospital and emergency department (ED) admissions, as well Medicare items and pharmaceuticals over five years for Queensland women with breast cancer. We used a linked administrative dataset, CancerCostMod, limited to Queensland female breast cancer diagnoses between July 2011 and June 2013 aged 18 years or over who survived for 5 years (n = 5383). Each record was linked to Queensland Health Admitted Patient Data Collection, Emergency Department Information Systems, Medicare Benefits Schedule, and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme records between July 2011 and June 2018. Total costs for different healthcare funders as a result of breast cancer diagnoses were reported, with high costs and service use identified in the first six months following a breast cancer diagnosis. After the first six months post-diagnosis, the financial burdens incurred by different healthcare funders for breast cancer diagnoses in Queensland remain steady over a long period. Recommendations for reducing long term costs are discussed.
Available In Vitro Models for Human Satellite Cells from Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Romagnoli Cecilia , Iantomasi Teresa , Brandi Maria Luisa
Published: December 2021

Skeletal muscle accounts for almost 40% of the total adult human body mass. This tissue is essential for structural and mechanical functions such as posture, locomotion, and breathing, and it is endowed with an extraordinary ability to adapt to physiological changes associated with growth and physical exercise, as well as tissue damage. Moreover, skeletal muscle is the most age-sensitive tissue in mammals. Due to aging, but also to several diseases, muscle wasting occurs with a loss of muscle mass and functionality, resulting from disuse atrophy and defective muscle regeneration, associated with dysfunction of satellite cells, which are the cells responsible for maintaining and repairing adult muscle. The most established cell lines commonly used to study muscle homeostasis come from rodents, but there is a need to study skeletal muscle using human models, which, due to ethical implications, consist primarily of in vitro culture, which is the only alternative way to vertebrate model organisms. This review will survey in vitro 2D/3D models of human satellite cells to assess skeletal muscle biology for pre-clinical investigations and future directions.
In Vitro Comparative Study of Solid Lipid and PLGA Nanoparticles Designed to Facilitate Nose-to-Brain Delivery of Insulin
Authors: Akel Hussein , Csóka Ildikó , Ambrus Rita , Bocsik Alexandra , Gróf Ilona , Mészáros Mária , Szecskó Anikó , Kozma Gábor , Veszelka Szilvia , Deli Mária A. , Kónya Zoltán , Katona Gábor
Published: December 2021

The brain insulin metabolism alteration has been addressed as a pathophysiological factor underlying Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Insulin can be beneficial in AD, but its macro-polypeptide nature negatively influences the chances of reaching the brain. The intranasal (IN) administration of therapeutics in AD suggests improved brain-targeting. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA NPs) are promising carriers to deliver the IN-administered insulin to the brain due to the enhancement of the drug permeability, which can even be improved by chitosan-coating. In the present study, uncoated and chitosan-coated insulin-loaded SLNs and PLGA NPs were formulated and characterized. The obtained NPs showed desirable physicochemical properties supporting IN applicability. The in vitro investigations revealed increased mucoadhesion, nasal diffusion, and drug release rate of both insulin-loaded nanocarriers over native insulin with the superiority of chitosan-coated SLNs. Cell-line studies on human nasal epithelial and brain endothelial cells proved the safety IN applicability of nanoparticles. Insulin-loaded nanoparticles showed improved insulin permeability through the nasal mucosa, which was promoted by chitosan-coating. However, native insulin exceeded the blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeation compared with nanoparticulate formulations. Encapsulating insulin into chitosan-coated NPs can be beneficial for ensuring structural stability, enhancing nasal absorption, followed by sustained drug release.
Modeling Transposition of the Great Arteries with Patient-Specific Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Ontoria-Oviedo Imelda , Földes Gabor , Tejedor Sandra , Panadero Joaquín , Kitani Tomoya , Vázquez Alejandro , Wu Joseph C. , Harding Sian E. , Sepúlveda Pilar
Published: December 2021

The dextro-transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA) is one of the most common congenital heart diseases. To identify biological processes that could be related to the development of d-TGA, we established induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines from two patients with d-TGA and from two healthy subjects (as controls) and differentiated them into endothelial cells (iPSC-ECs). iPSC-EC transcriptome profiling and bioinformatics analysis revealed differences in the expression level of genes involved in circulatory system and animal organ development. iPSC-ECs from patients with d-TGA showed impaired ability to develop tubular structures in an in vitro capillary-like tube formation assay, and interactome studies revealed downregulation of biological processes related to Notch signaling, circulatory system development and angiogenesis, pointing to alterations in vascular structure development. Our study provides an iPSC-based cellular model to investigate the etiology of d-TGA.