bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metronidazole enhances killing of Porphyromonas gingivalis by human PMNs
Authors: Serbanescu Mihaela Anca , Oveisi Morvarid , Sun Chunxiang , Fine Noah , Bosy Anne , Glogauer Michael
Published: August 2022

Background and objectives

Periodontitis affects the supporting structures of the teeth as a result of the interactions between the subgingival biofilm and the host immune system. Periodontal therapy in severe forms of periodontitis often utilizes antimicrobial agents with some potential to improve host defense responses. In the present study, we investigated the in vitro effect of metronidazole (MTZ) at concentrations achievable in the periodontal pocket on PMN activation and PMN mediated killing of Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Materials and methods

Flow cytometry based assays were used to measure the impact of MTZ on PMN degranulation, neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation and myeloperoxidase (MPO) release and phagocytosis in response to the keystone oral pathogen P. gingivalis. Functional assays for PMN mediated killing of P. gingivalis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in PMN were also carried out.

Results

We demonstrate that PMNs pretreated with MTZ (2 μg/ml or 50 μg/ml) displayed enhanced killing of P. gingivalis compared to untreated PMNs. At concentrations achieved physiologically in the periodontal pocket, MTZ induced PMN surface expression of two activation markers (CD66 and CD63). MTZ did not alter P. gingivalis-induced NETosis, but suppressed P. gingivalis-induced ROS production and phagocytosis.

Conclusion

MTZ displays a positive interaction with PMNs to potentiate PMN mediated killing of P. gingivalis and may therefore contribute to its beneficial effects in the treatment of periodontitis initiated by P. gingivalis infections including those refractory to conventional treatment.
When Things Go Awry in Axons
Authors: Passalacqua Fabrizio , Leatt Kyle , Chawla Nikita , Saddler Ruth-Ann , Babetto Elisabetta , Beirowski Bogdan
Published: August 2022

Axons are the thin and long extensions of neuronal cells that snake away from the cell body. Axons in our nervous system are like bridges spanning long distances to bring information from one nerve cell to another. However, axons are alive and need nutrients and energy to survive. Axons degenerate if nutrients and energy run out. This results in devastating symptoms in many conditions called neurodegenerative diseases. Scientists must understand why and how axons degenerate to prevent or delay it from happening. Recent studies have identified a destruction process that leads to energy loss and death of injured axons. The destruction pathway is completed by a rogue “demolition crew” driven by the watchdog molecule SARM1. Blocking this demolition crew delays the death of injured axons and helps sick axons. These findings may lead to new therapies that can decrease the symptoms of many people suffering from neurodegenerative diseases.
The Brain Science of Emotions and How to Control Them
Authors: Saragosa-Harris Natalie M. , Silvers Jennifer A.
Published: August 2022

In everyday life, we face situations that might make us feel angry, sad, frustrated, or scared. It is normal to feel badly sometimes, and usually these feelings go away with time. We can also use various strategies to make ourselves feel better in upsetting situations. In this article, we summarize some of the strategies that people can use when faced with tough situations, and how systems in the brain work together to allow us to use these strategies in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
The Environmental Impact of Home Deliveries
Authors: Cheah Lynette , Huang Qiuhong
Published: August 2022

Many people buy things online these days, like the latest sneakers or electronic gadgets. These goods may be sent to us over very long distances. The various ways of shipping those goods to us, whether by air, sea, or land, produce different amounts of greenhouse gases and therefore have different impacts on global warming. If we compare different ways to ship goods from China to Singapore, we find that shipping by air is faster than by sea, but it is also more expensive and contributes more to climate warming. We asked 188 people which shipping method they would choose if they knew about the greenhouse gas impact of each method. Slightly more than half were willing to accept slower deliveries for less polluting alternatives. Offering carbon labels on online shopping websites could help to reduce the environmental impact of home deliveries.
β-hydroxybutyrate impairs monocyte function via the ROS-NLR family pyrin domain-containing three inflammasome (NLRP3) pathway in ketotic cows
Authors: Dong Zhihao , Sun Xudong , Tang Yan , Luo Shengbin , Jia Hongdou , Xu Qiushi , Jiang Qianming , Loor Juan J. , Xu Wei , Xu Chuang
Published: August 2022

Cows with ketosis display severe metabolic stress and immune dysfunction which renders them more susceptible to infections. Monocytes, one of the major subtypes of white blood cells, play an important role in innate immune defense against infections. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate alterations in immune function, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and activity of the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway in monocytes (CD14+) of cows with clinical ketosis (CK). Twelve healthy multiparous Holstein cows [blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentration < 1.2 mM] and 12 cows with CK (BHB > 3.0 mM) at 3 to 14 days in milk were used for blood sample collection. To determine effects of BHB on phagocytosis, ROS and protein abundance of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathwayin vitro, monocytes isolated from healthy cows were treated with 3.0 mMBHB for 0, 6, 12 or 24 h. Dry matter intake (22.7 vs. 19.0 kg) was lower in cows with CK. Serum concentrations of fatty acids (0.30 vs. 0.88 mM) and BHB (0.52 vs. 3.78 mM) were greater in cows with CK, whereas concentration of glucose was lower (4.09 vs. 2.23 mM). The adhesion, migration and phagocytosis of monocytes were lower in cows with CK, but apoptosis and ROS content were greater. Protein abundance of NLRP3, cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase 1 (caspase 1) and interleukin-1B p17 (IL1B p17) were greater in monocytes of cows with CK, while abundance of NADPH oxidase isoform 2 (NOX2) was lower. Compared with 0 h BHB, ROS content and apoptosis were greater in the monocytes challenged for 6, 12 or 24 h BHB. Compared with 0 h BHB, protein abundance of NLRP3, caspase 1, IL1B p17 and concentration of IL1B in medium were greater in the monocytes challenged for 6, 12 or 24 h BHB. However, compared with 0 h BHB, protein abundance of NOX2 and phagocytosis of monocytes were lower in the monocytes challenged for 6, 12 or 24 h BHB. Overall, the data suggested that exogenous BHB activated the ROS-NLRP3 pathway, which might be partly responsible for immune dysfunction of dairy cows with CK.
Application of the Tomtit Flock Metaheuristic Optimization Algorithm to the Optimal Discrete Time Deterministic Dynamical Control Problem
Authors: Panteleev Andrei V. , Kolessa Anna A.
Published: August 2022

A new bio-inspired method for optimizing the objective function on a parallelepiped set of admissible solutions is proposed. It uses a model of the behavior of tomtits during the search for food. This algorithm combines some techniques for finding the extremum of the objective function, such as the memory matrix and the Levy flight from the cuckoo algorithm. The trajectories of tomtits are described by the jump-diffusion processes. The algorithm is applied to the classic and nonseparable optimal control problems for deterministic discrete dynamical systems. This type of control problem can often be solved using the discrete maximum principle or more general necessary optimality conditions, and the Bellman’s equation, but sometimes it is extremely difficult or even impossible. For this reason, there is a need to create new methods to solve these problems. The new metaheuristic algorithm makes it possible to obtain solutions of acceptable quality in an acceptable time. The efficiency and analysis of this method are demonstrated by solving a number of optimal deterministic discrete open-loop control problems: nonlinear nonseparable problems (Luus–Tassone and Li–Haimes) and separable problems for linear control dynamical systems.
Development of Ultra-Low Specific Speed Centrifugal Pumps Design Method for Small Liquid Rocket Engines
Authors: Kim Hye In , Roh Tae-Seong , Huh Hwanil , Lee Hyoung Jin
Published: August 2022

With the growth of the satellite industry, the demand for a propulsion system for small launch vehicles and spacecraft has increased. Small liquid rocket engines may require Ultra-Low specific speed centrifugal pumps due to the low required thrust and volumetric flow rate and high combustion chamber pressure. Therefore, in this study, a design method of Ultra-Low specific speed centrifugal pumps for several hundred Newton class small liquid rocket engines was developed by combining various empirical formulas. In addition, centrifugal pump impellers were designed using the Stepanoff method, which is typically used in pump design, and the circular arc method. The most appropriate method for designing Ultra-Low specific speed centrifugal pumps was determined through a comparative analysis with other methods and validated through CFD. As a result, the pump designed using the proposed method exhibited a performance of pumping and suction superior to the Stepanoff method. Although the number of arcs did not considerably influence the pump performance, the single arc method was confirmed to be the most appropriate design approach in terms of the design productivity and simplicity.
Taif’s Rose (Rosa damascena Mill var. trigentipetala) Wastes Are a Potential Candidate for Heavy Metals Remediation from Agricultural Soil
Authors: Galal Tarek M. , Majrashi Ali , Al-Yasi Hatim M. , Farahat Emad A. , Eid Ebrahem M. , Ali Esmat F.
Published: August 2022

The current study examines the bioaccumulation potential of Taif rose shrubs by analyzing the shrubs’ wastes. f. At Al-Shafa Highland, four farms with plants of different ages were chosen to collect soil samples and vegetative waste (leaves and stems) for morphological and chemical analysis. The tallest stem and largest crown diameter (184.2 and 243.5 cm, respectively) were found in the oldest (20-year-old) shrubs, which also produced the highest biomass of pruning wastes of stems and leaves (3.9 and 1.3 t/ha, respectively). The 10-year-old shrubs gathered the highest concentration of Co and Pb (1.74 and 7.34 mg kg−1) in the stem and the highest Fe, Mn, and Ni (18.55, 18.60, and 9.05 mg kg−1) in the leaves, while the youngest plants (4 years) accumulated the highest Cr and Zn (0.83 and 13.44 mg kg−1) in their leaves. The highest contents of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn were found in the oldest Taif rose stem (34.94, 1.16, 36.29, 49.32, 51.22, 24.76, and 32.51 g ha−1), while the highest contents of Co and Ni were found in the stems of plants that were 10 and 12 years old (3.21 and 9.54 g ha−1, respectively). The Taif rose’s stem and leaves can absorb the majority of heavy metals that have been studied with BAF values greater than one. Significant relationships between various heavy metals in the soil and the same in the stems (Al, Co, and Pb) and leaves (Co, Fe, Mn, Ni, and Pb) of Taif roses have been observed. According to the current findings, the Taif rose is a promising viable and safe crop for heavy metals phytoremediation if it is grown in polluted soil because there is little to no risk of contamination in the use of its end products, high biomass of pruning wastes, and high efficiency of heavy metal removal.
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris L.) Aqueous Extract: Hormesis and Biostimulant Activity for Seed Germination and Seedling Growth in Vegetable Crops
Authors: Pannacci Euro , Baratta Selene , Falcinelli Beatrice , Farneselli Michela , Tei Francesco
Published: August 2022

The evaluation of potential biostimulants to be used in sustainable horticulture production is a crucial goal of research. Most research has focused on the effects of biostimulants on plant growth, and less on the effects on seed germination and seedling growth. This study evaluated the biostimulatory effects of mugwort extract on seed germination and seedling growth in several vegetable crops (onion, carrot, tomato, rapeseed, cauliflower and lettuce), in order to test its application as a potential biostimulant. The phenolic acid composition of the extract and the acids’ rankings were: homovanillic > gentisic > gallic > caffeic = chlorogenic > salicylic = syringic > p/m-coumaric = ferulic = synaptic = p-hydroxybenzoic. The extract of mugwort (at 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1.56, 3.13, 6.25 and 12.5 % w/v concentrations) was analyzed using Petri dish bioassays, quantifying its stimulatory effects on seed germination and the radicle and hypocotyl length of the seedlings, according to hormetic log-logistic models. The mugwort extract was not able to biostimulate all the tested species. Seed germination was stimulated in carrot (+70%) and rapeseed (+11%), while in the other species, no effects (i.e., onion, tomato and lettuce) or inhibition (i.e., cauliflower) were observed. Hypocotyl length stimulation was observed in all the species except carrot and onion, while radicle length was mainly inhibited by mugwort extract, except in rapeseed (+30%). The biostimulation effects of mugwort extract seem to be “specie specific” and “part of plant specific”, and need to be further investigated in terms of the involved substances and physiological aspects, although phytohormone activity is certainly involved.
An ANN-PSO-Based Method for Optimizing Agricultural Tractors in Field Operation for Emission Reduction
Authors: Zheng Bowen , Song Zhenghe , Mao Enrong , Zhou Quan , Luo Zhenhao , Deng Zhichao , Shao Xuedong , Liu Yuxi
Published: August 2022

Aiming at the serious problem of agricultural tractor emission pollution, especially the limitation of nitrogen dioxide (NOx) and soot emissions, we took an agricultural diesel engine as the research object, and a diesel engine combustion chamber model was established for both simulated calculations and experimental verification analysis. The in-cylinder pressure and heat release obtained from the combustion chamber model simulation calculations were within 6% error of the experimental data. The overall trend of change was basically consistent. The established model can simulate the working conditions of the experimental engine relatively well. An artificial neural network (ANN) was also established as an agent model based on the indentation rate, tab depth, and combustion chamber depth as the input, and NOx and soot as the output. The decision coefficients of the ANN model were R2 = 0.95 and 0.93, with corresponding Mean Relative Error (MRE) values of 10.13 and 8.18%, respectively, which are within the generally required interval, indicating that the obtained ANN model has good adaptability and accuracy. On the basis of the general particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, an improved PSO algorithm was proposed, in which the inertia factor is continuously adjusted with the help of the skip line function in the optimization process so that the inertia factor adapts to different rates and adjusts the magnitude of the corresponding values in different periods. The improved PSO algorithm was used to optimize the optimal input parameter matching of the agent model to form a new combustion chamber structure, which was imported into CONVERGE CFD software for emission simulation and comparison with the emissions of the original combustion chamber. It was found that the NOx reduction was about 1.21 g·(kW·h)−1, and the soot reduction was about 0.06 g·(kW·h)−1 with the new combustion chamber structure. The ANN + PSO optimization method proved to be effective in reducing the NOx and soot emissions of diesel engine pollutants, and it may also provide a reference and ideas for the design and development of relevant agricultural engine combustion chamber systems.
Soybean Crop Rotation Stability in Rainfed Agroforestry System through GGE Biplot and EBLUP
Authors: Taryono  , Suryanto Priyono , Supriyanta  , Basunanda Panjisakti , Wulandari Rani Agustina , Handayani Suci , Nurmansyah  , Alam Taufan
Published: August 2022

The genotype–environment interaction causes difficulties in selecting stable and ideal soybean cultivars across crop rotation models. Thus, this study aimed to provide the best estimates of soybean yields in every crop rotation model for recommendations in the rainfed agroforestry system using GGE biplot and EBLUP. In this study, the productivity and stability of 15 soybean cultivars were evaluated using four crop rotation models, that is, soybean planting after fallow (F–S), soybean planting after maize (M–S), soybean planting after rice (R–S), and continuous soybean (S–S) in dry and wet seasons at Menggoran Forest Resort, Playen District, Gunungkidul Regency, Special Province of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Results in the dry season revealed that the Dering I cultivar had the highest yield in F–S and R–S of 1.267 and 1.375 tons ha−1 and the Grobogan cultivar in M–S and S–S of 1.200 and 1.349 tons ha−1, respectively. During the wet season, the Grobogan cultivar showed the highest yields in F–S, M–S, and S–S of 2.187, 2.435, and 2.247 tons ha−1, and the Dega I cultivar in R–S of 2.049 tons ha−1. Based on the GGE biplot and Shukla model, Dering I and Grobogan cultivars were classified as fairly and relatively stable in dry and wet seasons. The cultivars that are well suited to the environment can maximize the yield potential of these cultivars and help to build a sustainable production system.
Exogenous Application of Amino Acids Mitigates the Deleterious Effects of Salt Stress on Soybean Plants
Authors: Peña Calzada Kolima , Olivera Viciedo Dilier , Habermann Eduardo , Calero Hurtado Alexander , Lupino Gratão Priscila , De Mello Prado Renato , Lata-Tenesaca Luis Felipe , Martinez Carlos Alberto , Ajila Celi Gabriela Eugenia , Rodríguez Juan Carlos
Published: August 2022

The cultivated area of soybean has increased worldwide in past decades, including regions with saline soils, strongly decreasing growth and productivity. The use of amino acids (AAs) as buffering compounds against stressful conditions can be a useful strategy to mitigate salt stress in these regions. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of foliar application of AA mixtures on the growth, physiology, and biochemistry traits of salt-stressed soybean plants. A pot experiment was designed as a factorial scheme (4 × 3) in a randomized complete design (RCD). Treatments consisted of four concentrations of AA mixtures of a non-VA application, 0.4 mL L−1, 0.8 mL L−1, and 1.2 mL L−1 (VIUSID Agro® (VA) source), which were combined with non-salt stressed and salt-stressed groups (50 and 100 mmol L−1 NaCl), to analyze improvement in growth and potassium (K+) accumulation, maintenance of relative water content (RWC), net photosynthesis rate (A), transpiration (E), stomatal conductance (gs), and chlorophyll content, and increase of proline accumulation and water use efficiency (iWUE). Moderate and high salinity induced a notable increase in oxidative and ionic biomarkers, coupled with higher Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and Na+ accumulation. Alternatively, soybean growth, K+ accumulation, and physiological and biochemical parameters were decreased under salinity. Foliar spraying of AAs drastically increased osmolyte accumulation associated with sustained iWUE and RWC, increased proline accumulation, and improved A, E, gs, and chlorophyll content. Greater outcomes were achieved with the foliar spraying of amino acids at 1.2 mL L−1. Collectively, foliar application of AA mixtures plays an important role in salt stress remediation by modifying important physiological and biochemical processes, thereby resulting in a higher growth of soybean plants.
Variation of Bio-Morphometric Traits and Antioxidant Compounds of Brassica oleracea L. Accessions in Relation to Drought Stress
Authors: Ben Ammar Hajer , Picchi Valentina , Arena Donata , Treccarichi Simone , Bianchi Giulia , Lo Scalzo Roberto , Marghali Sonia , Branca Ferdinando
Published: August 2022

Drought tolerance of Brassica crops can be genetically improved by establishing plant ideotypes with improved yield responses associated with agronomic traits and biochemical markers. The objective of this study was to compare 20 Brassica oleracea L. accessions grown under two different water treatments (100% and 35% reintegration of evapotranspiration by irrigation) to select potential tolerant genotypes for organic cultivation based on several agronomic and biochemical parameters measured in response to drought stress. Significant differences were registered for the genotype and the irrigation regime and for their interaction (p < 0.0001 ***). A principal component analysis was performed to summarize the correlations among the analyzed phytochemicals and the stressed and not stressed genotypes and highlighted the importance of the antioxidant compounds as stress biomarkers. The present results showed that drought significantly reduces growth parameters and increases the amount of ascorbic acid and polyphenols compared to the irrigated control. Additionally, the results show that antioxidant metabolism increased by drought in some genotypes while others maintained a good biomass production by increasing the value of growth parameters considered. Based on the average sum of ranks (ASR) of morpho-physiological and biochemical parameters, the genotypes CR, CC, and BH were determined to be the most drought tolerant, whereas CI5, BU, and CV1 were determined to be the most susceptible. Due to the potential of these genotypes, further molecular and cellular research will be carried out to identify the genetic marker associated with the water stress response.
Soil Salinity Prediction Using Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems under Semi-Arid Environments Irrigated with Salty Non-Conventional Water Resources
Authors: Pedrero Salcedo Francisco , Pérez Cutillas Pedro , Aziz Faissal , Llobet Escabias Marina , Boesveld Harm , Bartholomeus Harm , Tallou Anas
Published: August 2022

The effects of climate change on food security have been unfavorable, particularly in the area of Murcia where there is a water shortage. To satisfy crop needs, farmers combine several irrigation water sources, such as brackish groundwater, desalinated water, reclaimed water, and desalinated water. Good agricultural and irrigation practices are essential for preventing soil salinization and production losses, and remote sensing might be used to evaluate these practices. This research, performed in an experimental field under greenhouse conditions and in an open-air commercial lettuce field irrigated with non-conventional water sources, determined that the Salinity Index (SI) applied to bare soil is a useful spectral index, providing an R2 range of 0.40 to 0.83. The other metric used to the bare soil, the Normalized Difference Salinity Index (NDSI), exhibited poor correlations, with R2 values as high as 0.49. Moreover, the thermal camera did not operate well within the greenhouse, but it performed in the commercial plot, where the canopy temperature was linearly correlated, with an R2 value of 0.50. The second analyzed vegetative metric, the Normalized Difference Plants Index (NDVI), was exclusively applied to the vegetation and showed minimal relationships with the soil salinity. In the visual evaluation of the maps, the temperature patterns of the canopy were strikingly comparable to the electrical conductivity of the soil, which was not the case for the other analyzed indices. The use of non-conventional moderately saline irrigation water sources negatively impacts the lettuce development by decreasing the fresh head weight and increasing the sodium and chloride leaf concentrations.
Tissue-Specific Transcriptomes Outline Halophyte Adaptive Strategies in the Gray Mangrove (Avicennia marina)
Authors: Nelson David R. , Chaiboonchoe Amphun , Hazzouri Khaled M. , Khraiwesh Basel , Alzahmi Amnah , Jaiswal Ashish , Friis Guillermo , Burt John A. , Amiri Khaled M. A. , Salehi-Ashtiani Kourosh
Published: August 2022

Avicennia marina forests fulfill essential blue carbon and ecosystem services, including halting coastal erosion and supporting fisheries. Genetic studies of A. marina tissues could yield insight into halophyte adaptive strategies, empowering saline agriculture research. We compare transcriptomes from A. marina pneumatophores, stems, leaves, flowers, seeds, and transcriptomes across four widely divergent environments in the Indo-Pacific (Red Sea, Arabian Gulf, Bay of Bengal, and Red River Delta) to decipher the shared and location-, tissue-, and condition-specific functions. On average, 4.8% of transcripts per tissue were uniquely expressed in that tissue, and 12.2% were shared in all five tissues. Flowers’ transcript expression was the most distinct, with domain-centric gene ontology analysis showing high enrichment for stimulus-responsive processes, as well as genes implicated in flowering (hydroxygeraniol dehydrogenase, TPM = 3687) and floral scent biosynthesis (e.g., benzoyl_coenzyme_A, 2497.2 TPM). Pneumatophores highly expressed antioxidant genes, such as glutathione S-transferase (GST, TPM = 4759) and thioredoxin (TRX, TPM = 936.2), as well as proteins in the GO term ‘Hydroquinone:oxygen oxidoreductase activity’ (enrichment Z = 7.69, FDR-corr. p = 0.000785). Tissue-specific metabolic pathway reconstruction revealed unique processes in the five tissues; for example, seeds showed the most complete expression of lipid biosynthetic and degradation pathways. The leaf transcriptome had the lowest functional diversity among the expressed genes in any tissue, but highly expressed a catalase (TPM = 4181) and was enriched for the GO term ‘transmembrane transporter activity’ (GO:0015238; Z = 11.83; FDR-corr. p = 1.58 × 10−9), underscoring the genes for salt exporters. Metallothioneins (MTs) were the highest-expressed genes in all tissues from the cultivars of all locations; the dominant expression of these metal-binding and oxidative-stress control genes indicates they are essential for A. marina in its natural habitats. Our study yields insight into how A. marina tissue-specific gene expression supports halotolerance and other coastal adaptative strategies in this halophytic angiosperm.
Micro Electric Shocks Control Broadleaved and Grass Weeds
Authors: Bloomer Daniel J. , Harrington Kerry C. , Ghanizadeh Hossein , James Trevor K.
Published: August 2022

A search for energy efficient, non-herbicide weed control methods led to development of a novel electrical weeding technology. This study focuses on weed control efficiency and energy as elements of a system that would include machine vision and robotics to control escape weeds in field crops. Two pulse generation systems, one single and one multiple, were developed and evaluated at different delivered voltages and energies. Greenhouse trials using specially designed and built application and recording technology showed the application of precisely applied micro-shocks with precisely controlled direct current (DC) voltage, pulse number, pulse length and period (hereafter PMS) can kill small Lolium multiflorum Lam., Chenopodium album L., Amaranthus powellii S. Wats. and Solanum nigrum L. plants with minimal energy. Plants took as much as two weeks to die. Increasing applied energy increased effectiveness as determined by plant biomass reduction and death rate. Grasses appear difficult to control once tillering has commenced, and high voltages may destroy leaf blades but not growing points. Broadleaved plants took several days to show evidence of chlorosis which preceded senescence and death. Our results showed that 5 J is sufficient energy to bring about death or severe growth limitation in many seedlings up to 15 cm height. This is as little as 1% of the energy of, and more effective than, ultra-low energy treatments reported in other recent research. To control five herbicide resistant weeds m−2, the required energy would be about 0.25 MJ ha−1 plus transport and actuation energy for weed destruction, as compared to an optimum target of about 20–40 MJ ha−1 including transport suggested in the literature. PMS can effectively control broadleaved weed seedlings and small non-tillering grasses at a fraction of the energy required by commercially available systems. This indicates PMS has potential as a viable technology for hand-held electric weeders or as part of a site-specific robotic weeding system.
The Molecular Composition of Humic Acids in Permafrost Peats in the European Arctic as Paleorecord of the Environmental Conditions of the Holocene
Authors: Vasilevich Roman , Lodygin Evgeny , Abakumov Evgeny
Published: August 2022

The purpose of our research is focused on examination of the transformation regularities of molecular composition of humic acids (HAs) in the hummocky frozen peatlands of the European Arctic as a marker of climatic changes in the Holocene, and assessment of the stabilization of soil organic matter under the conditions of modern climatic warming. Histosols located in the two subzones of the European Arctic served as the research subjects. This territory is actively used for reindeer breeding, which is a vital agricultural branch in the Far North of the Russian Federation. The data obtained reveal the main trends in the formation of HAs from Arctic peatlands under different environmental conditions. Modern peat sediments (top layers) in the middle and late Holocene period formed out of bryophyte residues and contained HAs with long-chain carbohydrate and paraffin structures in their composition. These structures enlarged the dynamic radii of HA molecules, and, thus, caused high average molecular weight values. The more favorable climatic conditions of the early Holocene (the Atlantic optimum) defined the botanical composition of peat, which was dominated by tree and sedge communities with high contents of lignin components and, as a consequence, a larger share of aromatic fragments, characterized by thermo-biodynamic resistance in HAs of horizons in the lower and central profile parts. The molecules of HAs are an archive of paleoclimatic records. The Subboreal and Subatlantic climatic conditions determined the specifics of vegetation precursors and, as a result, the molecular structure of HAs in seasonally thawed layers, with a predominance of long-chain aliphatic fragments. The conversion of HAs from Histosols led to an increase in the proportion of carbon in branched and short-chain paraffinic structures with their subsequent cyclization and aromatization. The results of this process are most clearly manifested in layers formed during the Holocene I and II climatic optima. Higher biologically active temperatures of the seasonally thawed layer of soils at bare spots (without vegetation) determined the accumulation of thermodynamically more stable HA molecules with a high content of aromatic fragments. This contributed to both the stabilization of the SOM and the conservation of peatlands in general.
Perfluoropolyether-Based Micellar Aggregates Coatings for Corrosion Resistance Enhancement of Copper-Based Alloys
Authors: Bassini Emilio , Gobber Federico Simone , Fracchia Elisa , Zenaro Chiara , Boccaleri Enrico
Published: August 2022

In this paper, a perfluoropolyether (PFPE) micellar solution was effectively deposited on metallic substrates using a dip-coating process to enhance brass and nickel aluminum bronze (NAB) corrosion resistance. Particular attention was paid to the aesthetic results as well. Enabling the metallic substrates hydrophobic to facilitate water and moisture removal was the key concept of this work. The corrosion resistance of the as-received and coated metals was investigated via a salt spray chamber test. The study focused on the characterization of the polymeric coating via dynamic light scattering and wettability tests, while the substrates were assessed with traditional metallographic techniques. The preparation of the polymeric solution was important in determining the final corrosion resistance of the two substrates. Noteworthy was the effectiveness of the PFPE-based coating when it was applied to the brass rather than the NAB. Moreover, the polymer concentration of the dip-coating polymeric emulsion was the most significant factor to obtaining adequate protection: higher polymer concentrations resulted in a decrease in corrosion resistance.
Analytical Chemistry: Tasks, Resolutions and Future Standpoints of the Quantitative Analyses of Environmental Complex Sample Matrices
Authors: Rosato Enrica , Merone Giuseppe Maria , Locatelli Marcello , D’Ovidio Cristian , Bonelli Martina , de Grazia Ugo , Santavenere Francesco , Rossi Sandra , Ali Imran , Ulusoy Halil Ibrahim , Kabir Abuzar , Savini Fabio
Published: August 2022

Currently, the challenges that analytical chemistry has to face are ever greater and more complex both from the point of view of the selectivity of analytical methods and their sensitivity. This is especially true in quantitative analysis, where various methods must include the development and validation of new materials, strategies, and procedures to meet the growing need for rapid, sensitive, selective, and green methods. In this context, given the International Guidelines, which over time, are updated and which set up increasingly stringent “limits”, constant innovation is required both in the pre-treatment procedures and in the instrumental configurations to obtain reliable, accurate, and reproducible information. In addition, the environmental field certainly represents the greatest challenge, as analytes are often present at trace and ultra-trace levels. These samples containing analytes at ultra-low concentration levels, therefore, require very labor-intensive sample preparation procedures and involve the high consumption of organic solvents that may not be considered “green”. In the literature, in recent years, there has been a strong development of increasingly high-performing sample preparation techniques, often “solvent-free”, as well as the development of hyphenated instrumental configurations that allow for reaching previously unimaginable levels of sensitivity. This review aims to provide an update of the most recent developments currently in use in sample pre-treatment and instrument configurations in the environmental field, also evaluating the role and future developments of analytical chemistry in light of upcoming challenges and new goals yet to be achieved.
Rearing Environment during the Endogenous Feeding Stage of Acipenser baerii
Authors: Aidos Lucia , Cafiso Alessandra , Lopez Annalaura , Vasconi Mauro , Valente Luisa M. P. , Bazzocchi Chiara , Di Giancamillo Alessia
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate behaviour, growth, lipid composition, muscle development, and stress status of Siberian sturgeon larvae reared with two types of substrate: Bioballs1 (BB1) and Bioballs2 (BB2), when compared to no substrate (CTR). Sampling points were: hatching (T0), schooling (T1), and yolk-sac full absorption (T2). BB1 larvae were less active and showed no schooling behaviour. At T1 and at T2, BB1 larvae showed a significantly higher weight and total length than larvae reared in either CTR or BB2 (p < 0.05). The lipid content of larvae decreased over time, with little relevant differences between groups. At T2, total muscle area, slow muscle area and fast muscle area were significantly higher in larvae reared in BB1 (p < 0.05). No significant differences in muscle proliferation were found between groups. Real Time PCR was used for evaluating the relative expression of a pool of genes: myod, myog, mrf4, igf2, hsp70, hsp90a, hsp90b, and glut2. The expression of these genes did not seem to be much affected by the type of rearing substrate, except for myog and hsp70 at T1, which was greater in BB2 larvae. Our data suggest that the presence of a substrate during this developmental period seems to have positive effects but further studies would be necessary during the exogenous feeding stage.
Exo-Erythrocytic Development of Avian Haemosporidian Parasites in European Owls
Authors: Ilgūnas Mikas , Himmel Tanja , Harl Josef , Dagys Mindaugas , Valkiūnas Gediminas , Weissenböck Herbert
Published: August 2022

Avian haemosporidian parasites (Haemosporida, Apicomplexa) are globally distributed and infect birds of many orders. These pathogens have been much investigated in domestic and wild passeriform birds, in which they are relatively easy to access. In birds belonging to other orders, including owls (order Strigiformes), these parasites have been studied fragmentarily. Particularly little is known about the exo-erythrocytic development of avian haemosporidians. The goal of this study was to gain new knowledge about the parasites infecting owls in Europe and investigate their exo-erythrocytic stages. Tissue samples of 121 deceased owls were collected in Austria and Lithuania, and examined using polymerase chain reactions (PCR), histology, and chromogenic in situ hybridization (CISH). PCR-based diagnostics showed a total prevalence of 73.6%, revealing two previously unreported Haemoproteus and five novel Leucocytozoon lineages. By CISH and histology, meronts of several Leucocytozoon lineages (lASOT06, lSTAL5, lSTAL7) were discovered in the brains, heart muscles, and kidneys of infected birds. Further, megalomeronts of Haemoproteus syrnii (lineage hSTAL2) were discovered. This study contributes new knowledge to a better understanding of the biodiversity of avian haemosporidian parasites infecting owls in Europe, provides information on tissue stages of the parasites, and calls for further research of these under-investigated pathogens relevant to bird health.
Alternative Routes of Administration for Therapeutic Antibodies—State of the Art
Authors: Pitiot Aubin , Heuzé-Vourc’h Nathalie , Sécher Thomas
Published: August 2022

Background: For the past two decades, there has been a huge expansion in the development of therapeutic antibodies, with 6 to 10 novel entities approved each year. Around 70% of these Abs are delivered through IV injection, a mode of administration allowing rapid and systemic delivery of the drug. However, according to the evidence presented in the literature, beyond the reduction of invasiveness, a better efficacy can be achieved with local delivery. Consequently, efforts have been made toward the development of innovative methods of administration, and in the formulation and engineering of novel Abs to improve their therapeutic index. Objective: This review presents an overview of the routes of administration used to deliver Abs, different from the IV route, whether approved or in the clinical evaluation stage. We provide a description of the physical and biological fundamentals for each route of administration, highlighting their relevance with examples of clinically-relevant Abs, and discussing their strengths and limitations. Methods: We reviewed and analyzed the current literature, published as of the 1 April 2022 using MEDLINE and EMBASE databases, as well as the FDA and EMA websites. Ongoing trials were identified using clinicaltrials.gov. Publications and data were identified using a list of general keywords. Conclusions: Apart from the most commonly used IV route, topical delivery of Abs has shown clinical successes, improving drug bioavailability and efficacy while reducing side-effects. However, additional research is necessary to understand the consequences of biological barriers associated with local delivery for Ab partitioning, in order to optimize delivery methods and devices, and to adapt Ab formulation to local delivery. Novel modes of administration for Abs might in fine allow a better support to patients, especially in the context of chronic diseases, as well as a reduction of the treatment cost.
Phytochemical Profiling, In Vitro Biological Activities, and In-Silico Studies of Ficus vasta Forssk.: An Unexplored Plant
Authors: Aati Hanan Y. , Anwar Mariyam , Al-Qahtani Jawaher , Al-Taweel Areej , Khan Kashif-ur-Rehman , Aati Sultan , Usman Faisal , Ghalloo Bilal Ahmad , Asif Hafiz Muhammad , Shirazi Jafir Hussain , Abbasi Aliza
Published: August 2022

Ficus vasta Forssk. (Moraceae family) is an important medicinal plant that has not been previously investigated for its phytochemical and biological potential. Phytochemical screening, total bioactive content, and GCMS analysis were used to determine its phytoconstituents profile. Antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-viral, cytotoxicity, thrombolytic, and enzyme inhibition activities were examined for biological evaluation. The plant extract exhibited the maximum total phenolic (89.47 ± 3.21 mg GAE/g) and total flavonoid contents (129.2 ± 4.14 mg QE/g), which may be related to the higher antioxidant potential of the extract. The extract showed strong α-amylase (IC50 5 ± 0.21 µg/mL) and α-glucosidase inhibition activity (IC50 5 ± 0.32 µg/mL). Significant results were observed in the case of antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-viral activities. The F. vasta extract inhibited the growth of HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The GCMS analysis of the extract provided the preliminary identification of 28 phytocompounds. In addition, the compounds identified by GCMS were subjected to in silico molecular docking analysis in order to identify any interactions between the compounds and enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase). After that, the best-docked compounds were subjected to ADMET studies which provide information on pharmacokinetics, drug-likeness, physicochemical properties, and toxicity. The present study highlighted that the ethanol extract of F. vasta has antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-viral, and anti-cancer potentials that can be further explored for novel drug development.
A Novel GPPAS Model: Guiding the Implementation of Antimicrobial Stewardship in Primary Care Utilising Collaboration between General Practitioners and Community Pharmacists
Authors: Saha Sajal K. , Thursky Karin , Kong David C. M. , Mazza Danielle
Published: August 2022

Interprofessional collaboration between general practitioners (GPs) and community pharmacists (CPs) is central to implement antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programmes in primary care. This study aimed to design a GP/pharmacist antimicrobial stewardship (GPPAS) model for primary care in Australia. An exploratory study design was followed that included seven studies conducted from 2017 to 2021 for the development of the GPPAS model. We generated secondary and primary evidence through a systematic review, a scoping review, a rapid review, nationwide surveys of Australian GPs and CPs including qualitative components, and a pilot study of a GPPAS submodel. All study evidence was synthesised, reviewed, merged, and triangulated to design the prototype GPPAS model using a Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety theoretical framework. The secondary evidence provided effective GPPAS interventions, and the primary evidence identified GP/CP interprofessional issues, challenges, and future needs for implementing GPPAS interventions. The framework of the GPPAS model informed five GPPAS implementation submodels to foster implementation of AMS education program, antimicrobial audits, diagnostic stewardship, delayed prescribing, and routine review of antimicrobial prescriptions, through improved GP–CP collaboration. The GPPAS model could be used globally as a guide for GPs and CPs to collaboratively optimise antimicrobial use in primary care. Implementation studies on the GPPAS model and submodels are required to integrate the GPPAS model into GP/pharmacist interprofessional care models in Australia for improving AMS in routine primary care.
Balancing the Virulence and Antimicrobial Resistance in VISA DAP-R CA-MRSA Superbug
Authors: Salemi Rossella , Zega Alessandra , Aguglia Elvira , Lo Verde Flavia , Pigola Giuseppe , Stefani Stefania , Cafiso Viviana
Published: August 2022

Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with intermediate resistance to Vancomycin (VISA) is reported worldwide. These strains frequently emerge among hospital-associated (HA)-MRSA and rarely within community-acquired (CA)-MRSA. Here, the genomic and transcriptomic adaptations distinguishing VISA daptomycin resistant (DAP-R) CA-MRSA, which emerged in a hospitalized patient under glycopeptide treatment, were explored. Methods: Whole-genome sequencing, RNA-Seq and bioinformatics were carried out. Results: Our CA-MRSA clustered in the USA400 lineage showing additional antimicrobial resistance (AMR) versus DAP and glycopeptides. Resistomics revealed adaptations related to glycopeptide, daptomycin and rifampin resistance (mprF nsSNPS and overexpression of glycopeptide and daptomycin-resistance related genes). Similar changes were detected in virulence traits (agrA HI-nsSNPs and toxin gene underexpression), in which a decrease was observed despite the abundance of virulence-related genes. Our results predicted a balance in adaptations, decreasing the virulence and biological costs to support the co-occurrence of extensive AMR in a hypervirulent genomic background. Conclusion: Our data show that VISA DAP-R CA-MRSA shifts the potential hypervirulent behavior of CA-MRSA towards the acquisition and maintenance of extensive AMR, by a decrease in virulence and biological costs mediated by a “compensatory modulatory mutation” silencing the Agr quorum-sensing cascade.
Lecithin-Polysaccharide Self-Assembled Microspheres for Resveratrol Delivery
Authors: Wang Lei , Lai Congting , Li Dong , Luo Zisheng , Liu Lingling , Jiang Yunbin , Li Li
Published: August 2022

Poor water solubility and low chemical stability, seriously limit the efficient bioavailability of resveratrol. Here, we propose encapsulating resveratrol in lecithin-polysaccharide self-assembled microspheres (LPSM). An LPSM was designed with a lecithin core, and alginate-carboxymethyl chitosan biolayer shell. The LPSM had a spherical shape with 12.171 ± 0.960 μm of particle size and −30.86 ± 1.37 mV of zeta potential. The introduce of lecithin remarkably increased the encapsulation efficiency of resveratrol to 92.78 ± 0.82%. The LPSM elevated the antioxidant capacity and ultraviolet resistance of resveratrol. Moreover, LPSM inhibited release in a simulated gastric environment, promoted sustained release in simulated intestinal environment, and elevated the bioavailability of resveratrol during in vitro simulated digestion. Results indicate that LPSM is promising as a carrier for resveratrol delivery to enhance stability and bioaccessibility.