bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrogenous Fertilizer Reduces Resistance but Enhances Tolerance to the Brown Planthopper in Fast-Growing, Moderately Resistant Rice
Authors: Horgan Finbarr G. , de Freitas Thais Fernanda S. , Crisol-Martínez Eduardo , Mundaca Enrique A. , Bernal Carmencita C.
Published: November 2021

The brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål), is a key challenge to rice production in Asia. Outbreaks of planthoppers are associated with excessive fertilizer applications; consequently, we examined planthopper interactions with susceptible, tolerant and resistant varieties of rice under varying levels of soil nitrogen in a greenhouse experiment. We compared planthopper fitness (survival × reproduction) and plant tolerance (functional plant loss index) for 16 varieties at 0, 80 and 150 Kg added nitrogen ha−1. The planthoppers grew larger, developed more quickly and laid more eggs on susceptible varieties, compared with the resistant and tolerant varieties. Moreover, soil nitrogen generally increased planthopper fitness on resistant varieties, but relative resistance was maintained. Functional plant loss was highest among the susceptible varieties, but weight and growth rate reductions per mg of planthopper were often highest in the tolerant varieties. Tolerance was associated with large, fast-growing plants, with at least moderate resistance to the planthopper. Susceptibility was associated with a small size and/or an absence of resistance genes. Our results suggested that early-tillering rice plants can be both resistant and tolerant to the brown planthopper, but cannot be both susceptible and tolerant of planthoppers at high densities. This indicates that at least moderate resistance is required for tolerance against this herbivore. Furthermore, although dwarf varieties had a low tolerance of planthoppers, they could express resistance through functioning resistance genes.
Structure and Properties of Supercritical Water: Experimental and Theoretical Characterizations
Authors: Yoshida Norio , Matsugami Masaru , Harano Yuichi , Nishikawa Keiko , Hirata Fumio
Published: November 2021

Water in the supercritical region of the phase diagram exhibits a markedly different structure and properties from that at ambient conditions, which is useful in controlling chemical reactions. Nonetheless, the experimental, as well as theoretical, characterization of the substance is not easy because the region is next to the critical point. This article reviews the experimental as well as theoretical studies on water in the supercritical region and its properties as a solvent for chemical reactions, as carried out by the authors and based on small-angle X-ray scattering and the statistical mechanics theory of molecular liquids, also known as reference interaction-site model (RISM) theory.
Autoinflammation It Is!
Authors: Feist Eugen
Published: November 2021

In recent years, we have entered a new era full of insights into exciting pathways and improved management of a distinct class of inflammatory conditions [...]
Belatacept Use after Kidney Transplantation and Its Effects on Risk of Infection and COVID-19 Vaccine Response
Authors: Terrec Florian , Jouve Thomas , Malvezzi Paolo , Janbon Bénédicte , Naciri Bennani Hamza , Rostaing Lionel , Noble Johan
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Belatacept is a common immunosuppressive therapy used after kidney transplantation (KT) to avoid calcineurin-inhibitor (CNI) use and its related toxicities. It is unclear whether its use exposes KT recipients (KTx) to a greater risk of infection or a poorer response to vaccines. Areas covered: We reviewed PubMed and the Cochrane database. We then summarized the mechanisms and impacts of belatacept use on the risk of infection, particularly opportunistic, in two settings, i.e., de novo KTx and conversion from CNIs. We also focused on COVID-19 infection risk and response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients whose maintenance immunosuppression relies on belatacept. Expert opinion: When belatacept is used de novo, or after drug conversion the safety profile regarding the risk of infection remains good. However, there is an increased risk of opportunistic infections, mainly CMV disease and Pneumocystis pneumonia, particularly in those with a low eGFR, in older people, in those receiving steroid-based therapy, or those that have an early conversion from CNI to belatacept (i.e., <six months post-transplantation). Thus, we recommend, if possible, delaying conversion from CNI to belatacept until at least six months post-transplantation. Optimal timing seems to be eight months post-transplantation. In addition, KTx receiving belatacept respond poorly to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
Self-Control of Inflammation during Tail Regeneration of Lizards
Authors: He Bingqiang , Song Honghua , Wang Yongjun
Published: November 2021

Lizards can spontaneously regenerate their lost tail without evoking excessive inflammation at the damaged site. In contrast, tissue/organ injury of its mammalian counterparts results in wound healing with a formation of a fibrotic scar due to uncontrolled activation of inflammatory responses. Unveiling the mechanism of self-limited inflammation occurring in the regeneration of a lizard tail will provide clues for a therapeutic alternative to tissue injury. The present review provides an overview of aspects of rapid wound healing and roles of antibacterial peptides, effects of leukocytes on the tail regeneration, self-blocking of the inflammatory activation in leukocytes, as well as inflammatory resistance of blastemal cells or immature somatic cells during lizard tail regeneration. These mechanistic insights of self-control of inflammation during lizard tail regeneration may lead in the future to the development of therapeutic strategies to fight injury-induced inflammation.
Forces Shapes in 3-Axis End-Milling: Classification and Characteristic Equations
Authors: Grossi Niccolò , Morelli Lorenzo , Venturini Giuseppe , Scippa Antonio
Published: November 2021

In 3-axis milling, cutting force analysis represents one of the main methods to increase the quality and productivity of the process. In this context, cutting force shape gives information of both monitoring and prediction of the cutting process. However, the cutting force shape is not unique, and it changes according to the cutting strategy, tool geometry, and cutting parameters. This paper presents a comprehensive approach to predict and classify cutting force shapes in 3-axis milling operations. In detail, the proposed approach starts by classifying the cutting force shapes for a single fluted endmill (i.e., single flute force shape), and, considering how the single flute force shapes may overlap one another, it extends the classification to a general multiple-fluted endmill. Moreover, the method provides, through analytical equations, angles, and magnitude dimensionless parameters of each key point, describing each shape classified. Finally, the proposed approach was experimentally validated through several milling tests in different cutting conditions.
Global Diversity and Updated Phylogeny of Auricularia (Auriculariales, Basidiomycota)
Authors: Wu Fang , Tohtirjap Ablat , Fan Long-Fei , Zhou Li-Wei , Alvarenga Renato L. M. , Gibertoni Tatiana B. , Dai Yu-Cheng
Published: November 2021

Auricularia has a worldwide distribution and is very important due to its edibility and medicinal properties. Morphological examinations and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of 277 samples from 35 countries in Asia, Europe, North and South America, Africa, and Oceania were carried out. Phylogenetic analyses were based on ITS, nLSU, rpb1, and rpb2 sequences using methods of Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference analyses. According to the morphological and/or molecular characters, 37 Auricularia species were identified. Ten new species, A. camposii and A. novozealandica in the A. cornea complex, A. australiana, A. conferta, A. lateralis, A. pilosa and A. sinodelicata in the A. delicata complex, A. africana, A. srilankensis, and A. submesenterica in the A. mesenterica complex, are described. The two known species A. pusio and A. tremellosa, respectively belonging to the A. mesenterica complex and the A. delicata complex, are redefined, while A. angiospermarum, belonging to the A. auricula-judae complex, is validated. The morphological characters, photos, ecological traits, hosts and geographical distributions of those 37 species are outlined and discussed. Morphological differences and phylogenetic relations of species in five Auricularia morphological complexes (the A. auricula-judae, the A. cornea, the A. delicata, the A. fuscosuccinea and the A. mesenterica complexes) are elaborated. Synopsis data on comparisons of species in the five complexes are provided. An identification key for the accepted 37 species is proposed.
Strategies for Improvement of Lipid Production by Yeast Trichosporon oleaginosus from Lignocellulosic Biomass
Authors: Grubišić Marina , Mihajlovski Katarina , Gruičić Ana Marija , Beluhan Sunčica , Šantek Božidar , Ivančić Šantek Mirela
Published: November 2021

Microbial lipids have similar fatty acid composition to plant oils, and therefore, are considered as an alternative feedstock for biodiesel production. Oleaginous yeasts accumulate considerable amounts of lipids intracellularly during growth on low-cost renewable feedstocks such as lignocellulosic biomass. In this study, we cultivated yeast Trichosporon oleaginosus on hydrolysate of alkaline pretreated corn cobs. Different process configurations were evaluated and compared, including separate hydrolysis and fermentation (SHF) with cellulase recycle and simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) in batch and fed-batch mode. At low enzyme loading, the highest lipid concentration of 26.74 g L−1 was reached in fed-batch SSF fed with 2.5% (g g−1) substrate. Batch SHF was conducted for four rounds with recycling the cellulase adsorbed on unhydrolyzed lignocellulosic biomass. Thirty percent of cellulase saving was achieved for rounds 2–4 without compromising productivity and lipid yield. The addition of Tween 80 to lignocellulosic slurry improved the hydrolysis rate of structural carbohydrates in pretreated lignocellulosic biomass. Furthermore, supplementing the growth medium with Tween 80 improved lipid yield and productivity without affecting yeast growth. Oleaginous yeast T. oleaginosus is a promising strain for the sustainable and efficient production of lipids from renewable lignocellulosic feedstock.
Aspergillus fumigatus Fumagillin Contributes to Host Cell Damage
Authors: Guruceaga Xabier , Perez-Cuesta Uxue , Pellon Aize , Cendon-Sanchez Saioa , Pelegri-Martinez Eduardo , Gonzalez Oskar , Hernando Fernando Luis , Mayayo Emilio , Anguita Juan , Alonso Rosa M. , Keller Nancy P. , Ramirez-Garcia Andoni , Rementeria Aitor
Published: November 2021

The activity of fumagillin, a mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus fumigatus, has not been studied in depth. In this study, we used a commercial fumagillin on cultures of two cell types (A549 pneumocytes and RAW 264.7 macrophages). This toxin joins its target, MetAP2 protein, inside cells and, as a result, significantly reduces the electron chain activity, the migration, and the proliferation ability on the A549 cells, or affects the viability and proliferation ability of the RAW 264.7 macrophages. However, the toxin stimulates the germination and double branch hypha production of fungal cultures, pointing out an intrinsic resistant mechanism to fumagillin of fungal strains. In this study, we also used a fumagillin non-producer A. fumigatus strain (∆fmaA) as well as its complemented strain (∆fmaA::fmaA) and we tested the fumagillin secretion of the fungal strains using an Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) method. Furthermore, fumagillin seems to protect the fungus against phagocytosis in vitro, and during in vivo studies using infection of immunosuppressed mice, a lower fungal burden in the lungs of mice infected with the ∆fmaA mutant was demonstrated.
The Ghosts Navalny Met: Russian YouTube-Sphere in Check
Authors: Belinskaya Yulia
Published: November 2021

The disrupted Russian media ecosystem facilitates the flourishing of political blogging on social media; the political communication expands beyond the over-controlled, institutionalised channels of political interaction. This paper maps the activity on YouTube, incorporating media and communication studies to the analysis of a hybrid political regime to answer the following research question: What representations of Navalny are available in the Russian YouTube-sphere? The analysis of a statistically random sample of 366 videos associated with the keyword “Navalny” works in two phases: image type analysis and narrative analysis. Both phases help to identify the traditional institutionalised political actors in the spillovers of political communication trends in the YouTube-sphere. This work not only enriches and updates the current understanding of the Russian political communication ecosystem, but also helps expand the research on contemporary quasi-democratic political scenarios and the communicative strategies of their legitimisation.
Determination of Cover Management and Soil Loss Risk Mapping by Sub-Districts and River Catchments of Cameron Highlands Malaysia
Authors: Zainal Abidin Roslan , Mahamud Mohd Amirul , Yusof Mohd Fazly , Zakaria Nor Azazi , Mohd Amiruddin Arumugam Mohd Aminur Rashid
Published: November 2021

Uncontrolled deforestation and land clearing for agricultural, urban development, and infrastructure construction without considering cover management (C&P) factors have resulted in severe soil erosion over the land surface of Cameron Highlands in the state of Pahang, Malaysia. Thus, this study determines the C&P factors for the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) to forecast soil loss risk. Land use and land cover recorded by PLANMalaysia and the Department of Agriculture (DOA) Malaysia have produced different C&P factors in Cameron Highlands. The C&P factor produced from PLANMalaysia and the DOA has values ranging between 0.01 to 1.00 and 0.30 to 0.49, respectively. Since the C&P factor varies according to the data source, this study combined both data sources to capture both agricultural and urban development impacts, resulting in an acceptable C&P factor. These new C&P factors have improved the prediction of soil loss risk with 15.63% (10,581.86 hectares) of the Cameron Highlands area classified as having a moderate–critical soil loss risk compared to DOA 7.16% (4844.97 hectares) and PLANMalaysia’s 11.46% (7725.26 hectares). Thus, local authorities must strengthen all regulations and policies to address the predicted moderate–critical soil loss risk in Cameron Highlands, thereby preventing severe soil erosion.
Exploring the Pronunciation Awareness Continuum through Self-Reflection in the L2 French Learning Process
Authors: Meritan Camille
Published: November 2021

Second language (L2) researchers have established that examining learners’ awareness of their own learning process and progress is essential. However, learners exposed to the same input in the classroom may differ in the way that they perform. This difference may be due to the way and depth with which learners process the L2 information. The present study explores self-reflection (i.e., introspective verbal reports) to enhance L2 learning, helping learners develop an awareness of learning as a process. This four-semester-long study investigates whether there is a connection between phonological awareness and self-reflection and explores under which conditions self-reflection could be most beneficial for pronunciation. Sixty learners of French, divided into a Treatment group (with self-reflection) and a Comparison group (without self-reflection), were tracked across semesters. Results on pre/post read-aloud tests surrounding pronunciation lessons—on the vowels /y/-/u/ and the use of liaisons—were contrasted with students’ responses to self-reflection questionnaires to explore their learning process. The study revealed that overall, self-reflection led to better learning outcomes, and that a link between attention and understanding may exist, but when this link is absent, learners using self-reflection may not linearly progress.
The Queer, the Cross and the Closet: Religious Exceptions in Equality Law as State-Sponsored Homophobia
Authors: Coyle Stella
Published: November 2021

The struggle for queer people to be recognised as full sexual citizens continues to be thwarted by the existence of religious exceptions to equality law. These exceptions reactivate and legitimise the historical oppression of queer people, who have long been plagued by the Four Horsemen of Homophobia. War—because the language of war is often used in the context of religious conscientious objection to gay equality. Famine—because public spending cuts have led to religious groups filling the gap in service provision. Pestilence—because old tropes of infection, promiscuity, and corruption of youth persist, albeit masked by a concern for religious freedom. Finally, Death—because exceptions to equality law operate to limit the citizenship of non-heterosexuals. This paper argues that religiously motivated attempts to restrict queer people’s participation, in a hetero- and theonormative public space, constitutes harm which can be characterised as degrading treatment contrary to Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights. The state must be more interventionist in its pursuit of genuine gay citizenship, and remove religious exceptions to equality law; otherwise, it is implicated in the constructive delegation of religious homophobia.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B Serum Markers in Young Military Recruits in Greece: A Comparison Study between 2005 and 2019 Cohorts
Authors: Papadopoulos Nikolaos , Gkavogiannakis Nikolaos , Panagakou Stella , Papadatos Gerasimos , Panagoulis Evangelos , Deutsch Melanie , Liaskonis Konstantinos , German Vasilios
Published: November 2021

Background: The prevalence of hepatitis B varies (HBV) among countries. Although an overall reduction has been described in Greece, data are limited. Methods: We reviewed the HBsAg/anti-HBc/anti-HBs seroprevalence among military recruits and compared data between 2005 and 2019. The study included 2001 (group 1) and 1629 (group 2) male recruits in 2019 and 2005, respectively. Age and descent were recorded. Results: The prevalence of HBsAg, anti-HBc and anti-HBs positivity in group1 vs. group 2 was estimated as: 0.2%, 1.3% and 67% vs. 0.4%, 1.6% and 62%, respectively. Only anti-HBs positivity achieved a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.007). HBsAg and anti-HBc were more frequently positive in non-Greeks than in Greeks (9/237 (4%) vs. 2/3393 (0.06%), p < 0.001), (26/237 (11%) vs. 26/3393 (0.8%), p < 0.001 respectively), while anti-HBs was more frequently positive in Greeks than in non-Greeks (84/164 (51%) vs. 1461/2213 (66%), p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our data suggest a further reduction in HBV prevalence in Greece about 20 years after the adoption of the National HBV Immunization Program, with Greek participants experiencing a more effective HBV Immunization Program than non-Greeks.
Combination Synchronization of Fractional Systems Involving the Caputo–Hadamard Derivative
Authors: Nagy Abdelhameed M. , Makhlouf Abdellatif Ben , Alsenafi Abdulaziz , Alazemi Fares
Published: November 2021

The main aim of this paper is to investigate the combination synchronization phenomena of various fractional-order systems using the scaling matrix. For this purpose, the combination synchronization is performed by considering two drive systems and one response system. We show that the combination synchronization phenomenon is achieved theoretically. Moreover, numerical simulations are carried out to confirm and validate the obtained theoretical results.
Sodium Chloride, Migraine and Salt Withdrawal: Controversy and Insights
Authors: Brown Ronald B.
Published: November 2021

This paper examines evidence implicating migraine headache as a withdrawal symptom of excessive sodium chloride intake. Emerging research in food addiction posits that food and drug addictions share common features, such as withdrawal symptoms. Salt (sodium chloride) meets the criteria for the diagnosis of substance dependence, including withdrawal in which the substance is used to relieve withdrawal symptoms. The premonitory symptoms of migraine include food cravings for salty foods, which can alleviate migraine pain. Edema, possibly related to large amounts of salt consumed in binge eating, can cause approximately four pounds of retained fluid. This amount of fluid is similar to the fluid retained before the onset of migraine headache, which may be accompanied by polyuria. This paper proposes that inhibited withdrawal from highly processed food intake, rich in salt, mediates an association between increased sodium chloride intake and relief from migraine headache pain. The relief from withdrawal symptoms could also be a mediating factor that explains the controversial findings inversely associating dietary sodium intake with migraine history. Moreover, the withdrawal of retained sodium and edema related to the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may elucidate a potential mechanism in medication overuse headache. Further research is needed to investigate the pain experienced from sodium chloride withdrawal in migraine headache.
A New Miniaturized Gas Sensor Based on Zener Diode Network Covered by Metal Oxide
Authors: Gunasekaran Vignesh , Yjjou Soffian , Hennequin Eve , Camps Thierry , Mauran Nicolas , Presmanes Lionel , Menini Philippe
Published: November 2021

The development of “portable, low cost and low consumption” gas microsensors is one of the strong needs for embedded portable devices in many fields such as public domain. In this paper, a new approach is presented on making, on the same chip, a network of head-to-tail facing PN junctions in order to miniaturize the sensor network and considerably reduce the required power for heating each cell independently. This paper is about recognizing a device that integrates both sensing and self-heating. This first study aims to evaluate the possibilities of this type of diode network for use as a gas sensor. The first part concerns the description of the technological process that is based on a doped polysilicon wafer in which a thin layer of metal oxide (a gallium-doped zinc oxide in our case) is deposited by RF sputtering. An electrical model will be proposed to explain the operation and advantage of this approach. We will show the two types of tests that have been carried out (static and dynamic) as well as the first encouraging results of these electrical characterizations under variable atmospheres.
Gut Microbiota Regulation and Their Implication in the Development of Neurodegenerative Disease
Authors: Sun Peilin , Su Lei , Zhu Hua , Li Xue , Guo Yaxi , Du Xiaopeng , Zhang Ling , Qin Chuan
Published: November 2021

In recent years, human gut microbiota have become one of the most promising areas of microorganism research; meanwhile, the inter-relation between the gut microbiota and various human diseases is a primary focus. As is demonstrated by the accumulating evidence, the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system interact through the gut–brain axis, which includes neuronal, immune-mediated and metabolite-mediated pathways. Additionally, recent progress from both preclinical and clinical studies indicated that gut microbiota play a pivotal role in gut–brain interactions, whereas the imbalance of the gut microbiota composition may be associated with the pathogenesis of neurological diseases (particularly neurodegenerative diseases), the underlying mechanism of which is insufficiently studied. This review aims to highlight the relationship between gut microbiota and neurodegenerative diseases, and to contribute to our understanding of the function of gut microbiota in neurodegeneration, as well as their relevant mechanisms. Furthermore, we also discuss the current application and future prospects of microbiota-associated therapy, including probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), potentially shedding new light on the research of neurodegeneration.
Biomedical Applications of Translational Optical Imaging: From Molecules to Humans
Authors: Farkas Daniel L.
Published: November 2021

Light is a powerful investigational tool in biomedicine, at all levels of structural organization. Its multitude of features (intensity, wavelength, polarization, interference, coherence, timing, non-linear absorption, and even interactions with itself) able to create contrast, and thus images that detail the makeup and functioning of the living state can and should be combined for maximum effect, especially if one seeks simultaneously high spatiotemporal resolution and discrimination ability within a living organism. The resulting high relevance should be directed towards a better understanding, detection of abnormalities, and ultimately cogent, precise, and effective intervention. The new optical methods and their combinations needed to address modern surgery in the operating room of the future, and major diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration are reviewed here, with emphasis on our own work and highlighting selected applications focusing on quantitation, early detection, treatment assessment, and clinical relevance, and more generally matching the quality of the optical detection approach to the complexity of the disease. This should provide guidance for future advanced theranostics, emphasizing a tighter coupling—spatially and temporally—between detection, diagnosis, and treatment, in the hope that technologic sophistication such as that of a Mars rover can be translationally deployed in the clinic, for saving and improving lives.
Co-Loading of Temozolomide and Curcumin into a Calix[4]arene-Based Nanocontainer for Potential Combined Chemotherapy: Binding Features, Enhanced Drug Solubility and Stability in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Migliore Rossella , D’Antona Nicola , Sgarlata Carmelo , Consoli Grazia M. L.
Published: November 2021

The co-delivery of anticancer drugs into tumor cells by a nanocarrier may provide a new paradigm in chemotherapy. Temozolomide and curcumin are anticancer drugs with a synergistic effect in the treatment of multiform glioblastoma. In this study, the entrapment and co-entrapment of temozolomide and curcumin in a p-sulfonato-calix[4]arene nanoparticle was investigated by NMR spectroscopy, UV-vis spectrophotometry, isothermal titration calorimetry, and dynamic light scattering. Critical micellar concentration, nanoparticle size, zeta potential, drug loading percentage, and thermodynamic parameters were all consistent with a drug delivery system. Our data showed that temozolomide is hosted in the cavity of the calix[4]arene building blocks while curcumin is entrapped within the nanoparticle. Isothermal titration calorimetry evidenced that drug complexation and entrapment are entropy driven processes. The loading in the calixarene-based nanocontainer enhanced the solubility and half-life of both drugs, whose medicinal efficacy is affected by low solubility and rapid degradation. The calixarene-based nanocontainer appears to be a promising new candidate for nanocarrier-based drug combination therapy for glioblastoma.
Coating of Magnetite Nanoparticles with Fucoidan to Enhance Magnetic Hyperthermia Efficiency
Authors: Gonçalves Joana , Nunes Cláudia , Ferreira Liliana , Cruz Maria Margarida , Oliveira Helena , Bastos Verónica , Mayoral Álvaro , Zhang Qing , Ferreira Paula
Published: November 2021

Magnetic nanoparticles (NP), such as magnetite, have been the subject of research for application in the biomedical field, especially in Magnetic Hyperthermia Therapy (MHT), a promising technique for cancer therapy. NP are often coated with different compounds such as natural or synthetic polymers to protect them from oxidation and enhance their colloidal electrostatic stability while maintaining their thermal efficiency. In this work, the synthesis and characterization of magnetite nanoparticles coated with fucoidan, a biopolymer with recognized biocompatibility and antitumoral activity, is reported. The potential application of NP in MHT was evaluated through the assessment of Specific Loss Power (SLP) under an electromagnetic field amplitude of 14.7 kA m−1 and at 276 kHz. For fucoidan-coated NP, it was obtained SLP values of 100 and 156 W/g, corresponding to an Intrinsic Loss Power (ILP) of 1.7 and 2.6 nHm2kg−1, respectively. These values are, in general, higher than the ones reported in the literature for non-coated magnetite NP or coated with other polymers. Furthermore, in vitro assays showed that fucoidan and fucoidan-coated NP are biocompatible. The particle size (between ca. 6 to 12 nm), heating efficiency, and biocompatibility of fucoidan-coated magnetite NP meet the required criteria for MHT application.
Body Composition, Anemia, and Kidney Function among Guatemalan Sugarcane Workers
Authors: Krisher Lyndsay , Butler-Dawson Jaime , Schlosser Karen , Asensio Claudia , Sinibaldi Elisa , Yoder Hillary , Dexter Lynn , Dally Miranda , Pilloni Daniel , Cruz Alex , Jaramillo Diana , Newman Lee S.
Published: November 2021

Rates of anemia among agricultural workers, who are also at risk for kidney injury and chronic kidney disease of unknown cause (CKDu), are unknown. We evaluated body composition through the sum of three skinfolds among 203 male sugarcane cutters and assessed the relationship of variables related to nutrition, anemia (hemoglobin < 13 g/dL), and elevated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c ≥ 5.7%) with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using linear regression. Eleven percent of workers were at the level of essential body fat (2–5%). Anemia was present among 13% of workers, 70% of which were normochromic normocytic, a type of anemia suggesting potential underlying chronic disease. Anemia was more common among those with lower BMI and fat free mass. The prevalence of elevated HbA1c was 21%. A moderate negative correlation was found between hemoglobin and HbA1c (Pearson’s r = −0.32, p < 0.01) which suggests that HbA1c values should be interpreted with caution in populations that have high rates of anemia. Twelve percent of workers had reduced kidney function with an eGFR < 90 mL/min/1.73 m2. On average, the eGFR was 18 mL/min per 1.73 m2 lower [(95% CI:−24, −12), p < 0.01)] for those with anemia than those without, and 8 mL/min per 1.73 m2 lower among those with elevated HbA1c [(95% CI: −13, −2), p < 0.01]. Results will inform future studies examining the role of anemia in the evaluation of CKDu and interventions to improve nutrition for workers in low-resource settings.
Tumor Cell Secretomes in Response to Anti- and Pro-Tumorigenic Agents
Authors: Liu Sheng-Zhi , Sun Xun , Li Ke-Xin , Lin Chien-Chi , Na Sungsoo , Li Bai-Yan , Yokota Hiroki
Published: November 2021

Tumor cells regulate their progression not only by the factors within their cell bodies but also by the secretome they produce and secrete. While their secretome significantly alters the fate of tumor cells themselves, they also regulate the growth of surrounding cells including both companion cancer and non-cancer cells. Tumor cell secretome consists of varying molecules that have been reported mostly tumor-promotive. Furthermore, their pro-tumor capability is enhanced by the application of chemotherapeutic agents. However, multiple lines of emerging evidence suggest that the tumor cell secretome can be tumor-suppressive in response to paracrine and endocrine signaling. This review introduces both tumor-promotive and tumor-suppressive secretomes, focusing on multi-tasking proteins in the intracellular and extracellular domains. We describe tumorigenic signaling that governs the nature of the tumor cell secretome and discuss the possibility of inducing tumor-suppressive proteomes as a novel option for cancer treatment. We evaluated the counterintuitive procedure to generate tumor-suppressive proteomes from a unique type of tumor-modifying cells, which are named “induced tumor-suppressing cells” (iTSCs).
Correlation of gyr Mutations with the Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations of Fluoroquinolones among Multidrug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolates in Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Khaja Mafij , Ather Md. Fahim , Nasrin Rumana , Rahman Tanjina , Islam A. S. M. Iftekhairul , Rahman S. M. Mazidur , Ahmed Shahriar , Banu Sayera
Published: November 2021

Fluoroquinolone (FQ) compounds—moxifloxacin (MOX), levofloxacin (LEV), and ofloxacin (OFL)—are used to treat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) globally. In this study, we investigated the correlation of gyr mutations among Mtb isolates with the MICs of MOX, LEV, and OFL in Bangladesh. A total of 50 MDR-TB isolates with gyr mutations, detected by the GenoType MTBDRsl assay, were subjected to drug susceptibility testing to determine the MICs of the FQs. Spoligotyping was performed to correlate the genetic diversity of the gyr mutant isolates with different MIC distributions. Among the 50 isolates, 44 (88%) had mutations in the gyrA gene, one (2%) had a mutation in the gyrB gene, and five (10%) isolates had unidentified mutations. The substitutions in the gyrA region were at A90V (n = 19, 38%), D94G (n = 16, 32%), D94A (n = 4, 8%), D94N/D94Y (n = 4, 8%), and S91P (n = 1, 2%), compared to the gyrB gene at N538D (n = 1.2%). D94G mutations showed the highest MICs for MOX, LEV, and OFL, ranging between 4.0 and 8.0 μg/mL, 4.0 and 16.0 μg/mL, and 16.0 and 32.0 μg/mL, respectively; while the most common substitution of A90V showed the lowest ranges of MICs (1.0–4.0 μg/mL, 2.0–8.0 μg/mL, and 4.0–32.0 μg/mL, respectively). Spoligotyping lineages demonstrated no significant differences regarding the prevalence of different gyr mutations. In conclusion, the substitutions of codon A90V and D94G in the gyr genes were mostly responsible for the FQs’ resistance among Mtb isolates in Bangladesh. Low levels of resistance were associated with the substitutions of A90V, while the D94G substitutions were associated with a high level of resistance to all FQs.
Exploration of Relationships among Clinical Gastrointestinal Indicators and Social and Sensory Symptom Severity in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kreider Consuelo M. , Mburu Sharon , Dizdarevic Sanja , Garvan Gerard , Elder Jennifer H.
Published: November 2021

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are associated with co-morbidities such as gastrointestinal (GI) symptomatology, which in the absence of known causes are potential indicators of gut microbiota that may influence behavior. This study’s purpose was to explore relationships among clinical GI indicators—diet, abdominal pain, and stool status—and ASD symptom severity, specifically social and sensory symptoms. Participants were 33 children with ASD, 3 to 16 years. The Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2) and the Child Sensory Profile Scale (CSP-2) were used to appraise social and sensory symptomatology. Significant difference was found in overall SRS-2, t(31) = −3.220, p = 0.003 when compared by abdominal pain status using independent samples t-tests. Significant difference was observed for overall CSP-2, t(31) = −2.441, p = 0.021, when grouped by stool. The three clinical GI variables predicted overall SRS-2 score using multiple linear regression, F(3, 32) = 3.257, p = 0.036; coefficient for abdominal pain significantly contributed to the outcome. Findings contribute to the growing literature signaling the need to understand occurrence of GI symptomatology more deeply, and in consideration of diet status and its implications in the children’s everyday lives, behaviors, and symptom severity.
Acute CrossFit® Workout Session Impacts Blood Redox Marker Modulation
Authors: Rios Manoel , Macan Tamires , Stevanović-Silva Jelena , Nhusawi Kamonrat , Fernandes Ricardo J. , Beleza Jorge , Ascensão António , Magalhães José
Published: November 2021

We aimed to analyze the impact of a single CrossFit® session “workout of the day” (WOD) on plasma redox. Ten CrossFit®-experienced subjects volunteered to participate. Oxygen uptake (VO2) during WOD and treadmill running (TR), performed at the same VO2 and time as WOD, were continuously monitored. Venous blood samples were collected before (baseline—BL) and after both exercises, for lactate concentration, total antioxidant capacity, thiol content, and DNA damage measurements. Total antioxidant capacity decreased after both exercises (WOD and TR) vs. BL, with no differences between exercises. Thiol content increased after WOD; however, no differences between exercises were observed. DNA damage increased after both WOD and TR, although more exuberantly after WOD than TR. Much higher lactate levels were detected in WOD compared to TR. Our findings suggest that WOD induces an increased condition of oxidative injury and affects total antioxidant capacity in experienced CrossFit® performers.
Transgenerational Effects of Maternal Water Condition on the Growth, C:N Stoichiometry and Seed Characteristics of the Desert Annual Atriplex aucheri
Authors: Jiang Li , Wen Zhibin , Zhang Yunling , Zhao Zhenyong , Tanveer Mohsin , Tian Changyan , Wang Lei
Published: November 2021

Water conditions directly affect plant growth and thus modify reproduction allocation. However, little is known about the transgenerational effects of water conditions on xerophytes. The desert annual Atriplex aucheri produces three types of seeds (A: dormant, ebracteate black seeds; B: dormant, bracteolate black seeds; C: non-dormant, bracteolate brown seeds) on a single plant. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of low/high water treatment (thereafter progeny water treatment) on aboveground biomass, C:N stoichiometry, and offspring seed characteristics of A. aucheri grown from brown seeds whose mother plants were under low/high water treatment (thereafter maternal water treatment). Progeny water only affected shoot dry weight and seed allocation of type A. Under low progeny water treatment, plants from parents with low maternal water treatment had the lowest biomass. Maternal water did not significantly influence the C and N content, however high maternal water increased the C:N ratio. Maternal water treatment did not significantly affect seed number. However, plants under low maternal and progeny water treatments had the lowest weight for type B seeds. When progeny plants were under low water treatment, seed allocation of type A, type B, and total seed allocation of plants under high maternal water were significantly lower than those of plants under low maternal water. These results indicate that water conditions during the maternal generation can dramatically contribute to progeny seed variation, but the transgenerational effects depend on the water conditions of progeny plants.
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Pomegranate and Orange Peel Extracts and Their Antifungal Activity against Alternaria solani, the Causal Agent of Early Blight Disease of Tomato
Authors: Mostafa Yasser S. , Alamri Saad A. , Alrumman Sulaiman A. , Hashem Mohamed , Baka Zakaria A.
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by pomegranate and orange peel extracts using a low concentration of AgNO3 solution to controlearly blight of tomato caused by Alternaria solani. The pathogen was isolated from infected tomato plants growing in different areas of Saudi Arabia. The isolates of this pathogen were morphologically and molecularly identified. Extracts from peels of pomegranate and orange fruits effectively developed a simple, quick, eco-friendly and economical method through a synthesis of AgNPs as antifungal agents against A. solani. Phenolic content in the pomegranate peel extract was greater than orange peel extract. Phenolic compounds showed a variation of both peel extracts as identified and quantified by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. The phenolic composition displayed variability as the pomegranate peel extract exhibited an exorbitant amount of Quercitrin (23.62 mg/g DW), while orange peel extract recorded a high amount of Chlorogenic acid (5.92 mg/g DW). Biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV- visible spectroscopy which recorded an average wavelength of 437 nm and 450 nm for pomegranate and orange peels, respectively. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy exhibited 32x73.24, 2223.71, 2047.29 and 1972.46 cm−1, and 3260.70, 1634.62, 1376.62 and 1243.76 cm−1 for pomegranate and orange peels, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy showed spherical shape of nanoparticles. Zetasizer analysis presented negative charge values; −16.9 and −19.5 mV with average particle sizes 8 and 14 nm fin case of pomegranate and orange peels, respectively. In vitro, antifungal assay was done to estimate the possibility of biosynthesized AgNPs and crude extracts of fruit peels to reduce the mycelial growth of A. solani. AgNPs displayed more fungal mycelial inhibition than crude extracts of two peels and AgNO3. We recommend the use of AgNPs synthesized from fruit peels for controlling fungal plant pathogens and may be applied broadly and safely in place by using the chemical fungicides, which display high toxicity for humans.
Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Parent vs. Hybrid Canola under Varying Nitrogen Availabilities
Authors: Williams Shanay T. , Vail Sally , Arcand Melissa M.
Published: November 2021

Improving nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is essential for sustainable agriculture, especially in high-N-demanding crops such as canola (Brassica napus). While advancements in above-ground agronomic practices have improved NUE, research on soil and below-ground processes are limited. Plant NUE—and its components, N uptake efficiency (NUpE), and N utilization efficiency (NUtE)—can be further improved by exploring crop variety and soil N cycling. Canola parental genotypes (NAM-0 and NAM-17) and hybrids (H151857 and H151816) were grown on a dark brown chernozem in Saskatchewan, Canada. Soil and plant samples were collected at the 5–6 leaf stage and flowering, and seeds were collected at harvest maturity. Soil N cycling varied with phenotypic stage, with higher potential ammonium oxidation rates at the 5–6 leaf stage and higher urease activity at flowering. Seed N uptake was higher under higher urea-N rates, while the converse was true for NUE metrics. Hybrids had higher yield, seed N uptake, NUtE, and NUE, with higher NUE potentially owing to higher NUtE at flowering, which led to higher yield and seed N allocation. Soil N cycling and soil N concentrations correlated for improved canola NUE, revealing below-ground breeding targets. Future studies should consider multiple root characteristics, including rhizosphere microbial N cycling, root exudates, and root system architecture, to determine the below-ground dynamics of plant NUE.
Life-Cycle Assessment of Polypropylene Production in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Region
Authors: Alsabri Amzan , Tahir Furqan , Al-Ghamdi Sami G.
Published: November 2021

The environmental impacts of the polypropylene (PP) manufacturing process are not fully understood in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. There is a growing interest in assessing the environmental impacts of this highly demanded product, especially for the petrochemical industry sector. This research examines the environmental impacts of the polypropylene manufacturing process using a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach. Gabi software is selected to carry out this research study and quantify the risks associated with manufacturing one ton of polypropylene, chosen as the functional unit for this LCA study. This work has the following merits: (i) an evaluation of environmental impacts specific to GCC region based on actual plant data; (ii) the results in this work can be used to evaluate LCA impacts of PP based products; and (iii) emphasizing the importance of waste management in reducing environmental impacts. This study shows that the polypropylene manufacturing process releases numerous pollutants into the environment, as the gross CO2 emissions for the manufacturing process of PP in the plant located in the GCC region were estimated to be 1.58 kg CO2 eq./kg-PP. The manufacturing process of propylene has extremely high impacts on global warming potential, fossil resource depletion (1.722 kg Oil eq./kg-PP), human toxicity (0.077 kg 1,4-DB eq./kg-PP), acidification (0.0049 kg SO2 eq./kg-PP), and petrochemical oxidant formation (0.0042 kg NMVOC/kg-PP). Additionally, based on the results of this present research, this study proposes possible improvements and alternative solutions such as applying advanced technologies, clean energy, and safe recycling processes in the GCC that are environmentally friendly.
Ruminal Lipid A Analysis by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Sarmikasoglou Efstathios , Vinyard James R. , Khan Mohamed S. , Jiranantasak Treenate , Ravelo Anay , Lobo Richard R. , Fan Peixin , Jeong Kwangcheol C. , Tuanyok Apichai , Faciola Antonio
Published: November 2021

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are cell wall components from Gram-negative bacteria and are composed of three covalently linked regions: the O-antigen, the core oligosaccharide, and the lipid A moiety, which carries most of their endotoxic activity. The objective of this study was to isolate and compare the lipid A structures from ruminal LPS derived from total mixed ration (TMR)- and pasture-fed cows, by using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Ruminal bacteria were collected from two rumen-cannulated Holstein cows; one fed a TMR (60:40, forage–concentrate) and the other pasture fed. The representativeness of each sample was validated by comparing the rumen microbiome from the cows in our study to the core rumen microbiome from the previous literature. Lipopolysaccharides from each respective sample were extracted with a phenol–water extraction procedure and purified via ultracentrifugation. To isolate lipid A from the core and O-antigen, pure ruminal LPS samples were hydrolyzed with acetic acid. Lipid A derived from the TMR-fed cow potentially exhibited a tetra-acylated structure, whereas lipid A derived from the pasture-fed cow potentially exhibited a penta-acylated lipid A structure. Both samples were quantified using limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) assay and exhibited low endotoxic activity, consistent with the MALDI-TOF MS observations. Results indicate that the lipid A acylation pattern differs between diets, and that ruminal bacteria express solely under-acylated lipid A structures contrary to hexa-acylated lipid A, typically expressed by bacteria such as E. coli.
Native Cyclodextrins and Their Derivatives as Potential Additives for Food Packaging: A Review
Authors: Arruda Tarsila R. , Marques Clara S. , Soares Nilda F. F.
Published: November 2021

Cyclodextrins (CDs) have been used by the pharmaceutical and food industries since the 1970s. Their cavities allow the accommodation of several hydrophobic molecules, leading to the formation of inclusion complexes (ICs) increasing the guest molecules’ stability, allowing their controlled release, enhancing their water solubility and biodisponibility. Due to these, CDs and their ICs have been proposed to be used as potential allies in food packaging, especially in active packaging. In this review, we present the many ways in which the CDs can be applied in food packaging, being incorporated into the polymer matrix or as a constituent of sachets and/or pads aiming for food preservation, as well as the diverse polymer matrices investigated. The different types of CDs, natives and derivatives, and the several types of compounds that can be used as guest molecules are also discussed.