bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Airway-On-A-Chip: Designs and Applications for Lung Repair and Disease
Authors: Bennet Tanya J. , Randhawa Avineet , Hua Jessica , Cheung Karen C.
Published: June 2021

The lungs are affected by illnesses including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and infections such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2. Physiologically relevant models for respiratory conditions will be essential for new drug development. The composition and structure of the lung extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a major role in the function of the lung tissue and cells. Lung-on-chip models have been developed to address some of the limitations of current two-dimensional in vitro models. In this review, we describe various ECM substitutes utilized for modeling the respiratory system. We explore the application of lung-on-chip models to the study of cigarette smoke and electronic cigarette vapor. We discuss the challenges and opportunities related to model characterization with an emphasis on in situ characterization methods, both established and emerging. We discuss how further advancements in the field, through the incorporation of interstitial cells and ECM, have the potential to provide an effective tool for interrogating lung biology and disease, especially the mechanisms that involve the interstitial elements.
RelB and Neuroinflammation
Authors: Mockenhaupt Karli , Gonsiewski Alexandra , Kordula Tomasz
Published: June 2021

Neuroinflammation within the central nervous system involves multiple cell types that coordinate their responses by secreting and responding to a plethora of inflammatory mediators. These factors activate multiple signaling cascades to orchestrate initial inflammatory response and subsequent resolution. Activation of NF-κB pathways in several cell types is critical during neuroinflammation. In contrast to the well-studied role of p65 NF-κB during neuroinflammation, the mechanisms of RelB activation in specific cell types and its roles during neuroinflammatory response are less understood. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of RelB activation in specific cell types of the CNS and the specialized effects this transcription factor exerts during neuroinflammation.
Cytogenetic Evidence for Sex Chromosomes and Karyotype Evolution in Anguimorphan Lizards
Authors: Augstenová Barbora , Pensabene Eleonora , Kratochvíl Lukáš , Rovatsos Michail
Published: June 2021

Anguimorphan lizards are a morphologically variable group of squamate reptiles with a wide geographical distribution. In spite of their importance, they have been cytogenetically understudied. Here, we present the results of the cytogenetic examination of 23 species from five anguimorphan families (Anguidae, Helodermatidae, Shinisauridae, Varanidae and Xenosauridae). We applied both conventional (Giemsa staining and C-banding) and molecular cytogenetic methods (fluorescence in situ hybridization with probes for the telomeric motifs and rDNA loci, comparative genome hybridization), intending to describe the karyotypes of previously unstudied species, to uncover the sex determination mode, and to reveal the distribution of variability in cytogenetic characteristics among anguimorphan lizards. We documented that karyotypes are generally quite variable across anguimorphan lineages, with anguids being the most varying. However, the derived chromosome number of 2n = 40 exhibits a notable long-term evolutionary stasis in monitors. Differentiated ZZ/ZW sex chromosomes were documented in monitors and helodermatids, as well as in the anguids Abronia lythrochila, and preliminary also in Celestus warreni and Gerrhonotus liocephalus. Several other anguimorphan species have likely poorly differentiated sex chromosomes, which cannot be detected by the applied cytogenetic methods, although the presence of environmental sex determination cannot be excluded. In addition, we uncovered a rare case of spontaneous triploidy in a fully grown Varanus primordius.
Cockayne Syndrome-Associated CSA and CSB Mutations Impair Ribosome Biogenesis, Ribosomal Protein Stability, and Global Protein Folding
Authors: Qiang Mingyue , Khalid Fatima , Phan Tamara , Ludwig Christina , Scharffetter-Kochanek Karin , Iben Sebastian
Published: June 2021

Cockayne syndrome (CS) is a developmental disorder with symptoms that are typical for the aging body, including subcutaneous fat loss, alopecia, and cataracts. Here, we show that in the cells of CS patients, RNA polymerase I transcription and the processing of the pre-rRNA are disturbed, leading to an accumulation of the 18S-E intermediate. The mature 18S rRNA level is reduced, and isolated ribosomes lack specific ribosomal proteins of the small 40S subunit. Ribosomal proteins are susceptible to unfolding and the CS cell proteome is heat-sensitive, indicating misfolded proteins and an error-prone translation process in CS cells. Pharmaceutical chaperones restored impaired cellular proliferation. Therefore, we provide evidence for severe protein synthesis malfunction, which together with a loss of proteostasis constitutes the underlying pathophysiology in CS.
Man-Specific Lectins from Plants, Fungi, Algae and Cyanobacteria, as Potential Blockers for SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Coronaviruses: Biomedical Perspectives
Authors: Barre Annick , Van Damme Els J. M. , Simplicien Mathias , Le Poder Sophie , Klonjkowski Bernard , Benoist Hervé , Peyrade David , Rougé Pierre
Published: June 2021

Betacoronaviruses, responsible for the “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome” (SARS) and the “Middle East Respiratory Syndrome” (MERS), use the spikes protruding from the virion envelope to attach and subsequently infect the host cells. The coronavirus spike (S) proteins contain receptor binding domains (RBD), allowing the specific recognition of either the dipeptidyl peptidase CD23 (MERS-CoV) or the angiotensin-converting enzyme ACE2 (SARS-Cov, SARS-CoV-2) host cell receptors. The heavily glycosylated S protein includes both complex and high-mannose type N-glycans that are well exposed at the surface of the spikes. A detailed analysis of the carbohydrate-binding specificity of mannose-binding lectins from plants, algae, fungi, and bacteria, revealed that, depending on their origin, they preferentially recognize either complex type N-glycans, or high-mannose type N-glycans. Since both complex and high-mannose glycans substantially decorate the S proteins, mannose-specific lectins are potentially useful glycan probes for targeting the SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 virions. Mannose-binding legume lectins, like pea lectin, and monocot mannose-binding lectins, like snowdrop lectin or the algal lectin griffithsin, which specifically recognize complex N-glycans and high-mannose glycans, respectively, are particularly adapted for targeting coronaviruses. The biomedical prospects of targeting coronaviruses with mannose-specific lectins are wide-ranging including detection, immobilization, prevention, and control of coronavirus infection.
Synoptic–Dynamic Patterns Affecting Iran’s Autumn Precipitation during ENSO Phase Transitions
Authors: Bahrami Faranak , Saadatabadi Abbas Ranjbar , Krakauer Nir Y. , Mesbahzadeh Tayyebeh , Sardoo Farshad Soleimani
Published: June 2021

We compared the effect on autumn (October, November, December) precipitation over Iran during two types of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phase transitions from the perspective of anomalies in wave activity flux and sea level pressure along the Atlantic–Mediterranean storm track, as well as precipitation. We used Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) to identify the transition phases of ENSO (El Niño to La Niña and also La Niña to El Niño, referred to as type 1 and type 2, respectively). Climate data during the period of 1950 to 2019 used in this study is derived from NCEP-NCAR reanalysis. In order to investigate the intensity and direction of Rossby wave trains in different ENSO transitions, we used the wave activity flux parameter, and to evaluate the statistical significance of values, we calculated Student’s t-test. The impact of the Atlantic storm track on the Mediterranean storm track was shown to be greater in type 2 transitions. Further, the existence of a stronger wave source region in the Mediterranean region during type 2 transitions was established. Results also showed the weakening of the Iceland low and Azores high pressure in type 1 transitions and the reinforcement of both in type 2, with the differences being significant at up to a 99% confidence level. Pressure values over Iran were at or below normal in type 1 years and below normal in type 2. Finally, the composite analysis of precipitation anomaly revealed that during ENSO type 1 transitions, most regions of Iran experienced low precipitation, while in type 2, the precipitation was more than average, statistically significant at 75% confidence level or higher over the northern half of the country.
Assessment of a Wind Turbine Blade Erosion Lifetime Prediction Model with Industrial Protection Materials and Testing Methods
Authors: Herring Robbie , Domenech Luis , Renau Jordi , Šakalytė Asta , Ward Carwyn , Dyer Kirsten , Sánchez Fernando
Published: June 2021

Leading edge protection (LEP) coating systems are applied to protect turbine blade edges from rain erosion. The performance of a LEP system is assessed in an accelerated rain erosion test (RET) as a metric for industrial application, but these tests are expensive. Modelling methods are available to predict erosion, based on fundamental material properties, but there is a lack of validation. The Springer model (1976) is analysed in this work to assess it as a tool for using material fundamental properties to predict the time to failure in a rain erosion test. It has been applied, referenced and industry validated with important partial considerations. The method has been applied successfully for erosion damage by wear performance prediction when combined with prior material data from rain erosion test (RET), instead of obtaining it directly from fundamental properties measured separately as Springer proposed. The method also offers accurate predictions when coupled with modified numerical parameters obtained from experimental RET testing data. This research aims to understand the differences between the experimental data used by Springer and the current industry approach to rain erosion testing, and to determine how it may introduce inaccuracies into lifetime predictions of current LEP systems, since they are very different to those tested in the historic modelling validation. In this work, a review of the modelling is presented, allowing for the understanding of key issues of its computational implementation and the required experimental material characterisation. Modelling results are discussed for different original application issues and industry-related LEP configuration cases, offering the reader to interpret the limits of the performance prediction when considering the variation in material fundamental properties involved.
PECVD SiNx Thin Films for Protecting Highly Reflective Silver Mirrors: Are They Better Than ALD AlOx Films?
Authors: Bulkin Pavel , Chapon Patrick , Daineka Dmitri , Zhao Guili , Kundikova Nataliya
Published: June 2021

Protection of silver surface from corrosion is an important topic, as this metal is highly susceptible to damage by atomic oxygen, halogenated, acidic and sulfur-containing molecules. Protective coatings need to be efficient at relatively small thicknesses, transparent and must not affect the surface in any detrimental way, during the deposition or over its lifetime. We compare PECVD-deposited SiNx films to efficiency of ALD-deposited AlOx films as protectors of front surface silver mirrors against damage by oxygen plasma. Films of different thickness were deposited at room temperature and exposed to O2 ECR-plasma for various durations. Results were analyzed with optical and SEM microscopy, pulsed GD-OES, spectroscopic ellipsometry and spectrophotometry on reflection. Studies indicate that both films provide protection after certain minimal thickness. While this critical thickness seems to be smaller for SiNx films during short plasma exposures, longer plasma treatment reveals that the local defects in PECVD-deposited films (most likely due to erosion of some regions of the film and pinholes) steadily multiply with time of treatment and lead to slow drop of reflectance of SiNx-protected mirrors, whereas we showed before that ALD-deposited AlOx films reliably protect silver surface during long plasma exposures.
Investigation on Film Formation Characteristics of Pressure-Swirl Nozzle
Authors: Ma Dongyun , Chang Shinan , Yang Chen
Published: June 2021

The film formation during the spray/wall impingement has attracted more attention. The present study investigated the film formation characteristics of the pressure-swirl nozzle by applying the contact-free optical method. According to experimental results, the impingement distance had a slightly more significant effect on the actual spray angle than the mass flow rate, and the maximum changing value was 34.6°. The bulge at the center of the surface became insignificant with the impingement distance. The liquid film was divided into the raised zone, annular zone, and free flow zone. The maximum time-average thickness at the central position was 2.84 mm, and correlations for predicting the time-average thickness and surface roughness were fitted. The time-average thickness of the annular zone was 0.38–0.59 mm, relatively thinner than other zones. When the impingement distance was lower than 10 mm, the time-average film thickness and surface roughness in the annular zone and free flow zone decreased first and then increased with the impingement distance. However, effects of mass flow rates and impingement distance on the liquid film were negligible when the impingement distance was higher than 10 mm. The experimental findings are helpful to fundamentally understand the film formation during the spray/wall impingement.
A Constitutive Relation Based on the Johnson–Cook Model for Ti-22Al-23Nb-2(Mo, Zr) Alloy at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Wang Yanju , Zhou Duo , Zhou Yi , Sha Aixue , Cheng Huaxing , Yan Yabin
Published: June 2021

Although several schemes have been proposed to modify the classical Johnson–Cook (J-C) model, the effect of temperature on the flow stress of materials at different temperatures has not been clarified. In the current study, to investigate the deformation behavior of Ti-22Al-23Nb-2(Mo, Zr) alloy at different temperatures, uniaxial tension experiments were performed at both room (RT, 28 °C) and elevated temperatures, and a modified J-C model was developed to describe the temperature-dependent plastic flow. In tensile experiments, Ti2AlNb-based alloy showed a continuous work hardening until reaching the ultimate strength at RT, while an apparent drop appeared in the flow stress after the peak stress at elevated temperature. Moreover, the experimental peak stress significantly depends on the testing temperature. To correctly describe the different variations of flow stresses at different temperatures, a parameter, S, which represents the softening behavior of flow stress, is integrated into the classical J-C model. In addition, the applicability and validity of the proposed J-C model were verified by calibration with experimental curves of different temperatures. On the other hand, the fractography of post-test specimens was examined to interrupt the increased fracture brittleness of Ti2AlNb-based alloy at elevated temperatures. The proposed constitutive relation based on the J-C model is applicable to predict the deformation behavior of other Ti2AlNb-based alloys at different temperatures.
Rotifer Species Diversity in Mexico: An Updated Checklist
Authors: Sarma S. S. S. , Jiménez-Santos Marco Antonio , Nandini S.
Published: June 2021

A review of the Mexican rotifer species diversity is presented here. To date, 402 species of rotifers have been recorded from Mexico, besides a few infraspecific taxa such as subspecies and varieties. The rotifers from Mexico represent 27 families and 75 genera. Molecular analysis showed about 20 cryptic taxa from species complexes. The genera Lecane, Trichocerca, Brachionus, Lepadella, Cephalodella, Keratella, Ptygura, and Notommata accounted for more than 50% of all species recorded from the Mexican territory. The diversity of rotifers from the different states of Mexico was highly heterogeneous. Only five federal entities (the State of Mexico, Michoacán, Veracruz, Mexico City, Aguascalientes, and Quintana Roo) had more than 100 species. Extrapolation of rotifer species recorded from Mexico indicated the possible occurrence of more than 600 species in Mexican water bodies, hence more sampling effort is needed. In the current review, we also comment on the importance of seasonal sampling in enhancing the species richness and detecting exotic rotifer taxa in Mexico.
Genetic Investigation of Aral Wild Common Carp Populations (Cyprinus carpio) Using ddRAD Sequencing
Authors: Shalgimbayeva Gulmira , Volkov Alexander , Slobodova Natalia , Sharko Fedor , Tsygankova Svetlana , Boulygina Eugenia , Nguyen Van Q. , Pham The T. , Nguyen Duc T. , Assylbekova Saule Zh. , Alekseev Yakov , Nedoluzhko Artem , Fernandes Jorge M. O. , Rastorguev Sergey
Published: June 2021

Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a widespread freshwater fish species of the Cyprinidae family, one of the largest and most diverse fish families. The natural habitats of C. carpio extend from Western Europe to South-East Asia. Common carp has remained an economically important fish species in aquaculture for many centuries and its production nowadays exceeds 4 million tons worldwide and continues to grow. The taxonomy of C. carpio is complicated, since this species is usually distinguished in two, three, and even four distinct subspecies. In the present study, we used ddRAD-sequencing to genotype 30 specimens from five wild common carp populations from the Ponto-Caspian, Balkhash-Ile, and Aral Sea geographical regions. It is demonstrated that they differ at the population level according to F-statistics analysis. At the same time, the subspecies status of C. carpio aralensis has not yet been confirmed. We found several loci that can be used as a discriminant for Aral and Ponto-Caspian wild common carp populations. It is suggested that Aral carp (C. carpio aralensis), which inhabits Balkhash-Ile and Aral Sea basins, is related to Ponto-Caspian or European carp (C. carpio carpio). Moreover, Aral carp might be the ancestor for European carp subspecies. Our results can be used to develop population-specific, high-density SNP marker panels, allowing the trade control of common carp production in the Eurasian Economic Union.
A Molecular Perspective on Colistin and Klebsiella pneumoniae: Mode of Action, Resistance Genetics, and Phenotypic Susceptibility
Authors: Elias Rita , Duarte Aida , Perdigão João
Published: June 2021

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a rod-shaped, encapsulated, Gram-negative bacteria associated with multiple nosocomial infections. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) K. pneumoniae strains have been increasing and the therapeutic options are increasingly limited. Colistin is a long-used, polycationic, heptapeptide that has regained attention due to its activity against Gram-negative bacteria, including the MDR K. pneumoniae strains. However, this antibiotic has a complex mode of action that is still under research along with numerous side-effects. The acquisition of colistin resistance is mainly associated with alteration of lipid A net charge through the addition of cationic groups synthesized by the gene products of a multi-genic regulatory network. Besides mutations in these chromosomal genes, colistin resistance can also be achieved through the acquisition of plasmid-encoded genes. Nevertheless, the diversity of molecular markers for colistin resistance along with some adverse colistin properties compromises the reliability of colistin-resistance monitorization methods. The present review is focused on the colistin action and molecular resistance mechanisms, along with specific limitations on drug susceptibility testing for K. pneumoniae.
Sample-Pooling Strategy for SARS-CoV-2 Detection among Students and Staff of the University of Sannio
Authors: Polvere Immacolata , Silvestri Elena , Sabatino Lina , Giacco Antonia , Iervolino Stefania , Peluso Teresa , Guida Rosa , Zerillo Lucrezia , Varricchio Romualdo , D’Andrea Silvia , Voccola Serena , Madera Jessica Raffaella , Zullo Alberto , Stilo Romania , Vito Pasquale , Zotti Tiziana
Published: June 2021

Since the beginning of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, it has been clear that testing large groups of the population was the key to stem infection and prevent the effects of the coronavirus disease of 2019, mostly among sensitive patients. On the other hand, time and cost-sustainability of virus detection by molecular analysis such as reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) may be a major issue if testing is extended to large communities, mainly asymptomatic large communities. In this context, sample-pooling and test grouping could offer an effective solution. Here we report the screening on 1195 oral-nasopharyngeal swabs collected from students and staff of the Università degli Studi del Sannio (University of Sannio, Benevento, Campania, Italy) and analyzed by an in-house developed multiplex RT-qPCR for SARS-CoV-2 detection through a simple monodimensional sample pooling strategy. Overall, 400 distinct pools were generated and, within 24 h after swab collection, five positive samples were identified. Out of them, four were confirmed by using a commercially available kit suitable for in vitro diagnostic use (IVD). High accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were also determined by comparing our results with a reference IVD assay for all deconvoluted samples. Overall, we conducted 463 analyses instead of 1195, reducing testing resources by more than 60% without lengthening diagnosis time and without significant losses in sensitivity, suggesting that our strategy was successful in recognizing positive cases in a community of asymptomatic individuals with minor requirements of reagents and time when compared to normal testing procedures.
A Rare Case of Primary Breast Osteosarcoma Evaluated with Multiple Modalities
Authors: Fujioka Tomoyuki , Mori Mio , Onishi Iichiroh , Yashima Yuka , Yamaga Emi , Oyama Jun , Yokoyama Kota , Kubota Kazunori , Oda Goshi , Nakagawa Tsuyoshi , Tateishi Ukihide
Published: June 2021

Primary breast osteosarcoma (PBO) is very rare. This report presents a case of POB that was evaluated by multiple modalities. A woman in her 70s presented with a mass of increasing size in her right breast. A mammogram and an ultrasound visualized a lobulated mass containing coarse calcification in the right breast. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a strong enhancement effect and high signal on diffusion-weighted imaging. Further imaging on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography and computed tomography exhibited a high uptake. A right total mastectomy was performed. Histologic examination revealed abundant periosteal formation, areas of calcification and moderately pleomorphic oval to spindle-shaped stromal cells, leading to the diagnosis of PBO. The presence of calcified breast tumors exhibiting aggressive growth indicates that PBO should be added to the differential diagnosis.
Crashworthiness Performance of Aluminium, GFRP and Hybrid Aluminium/GFRP Circular Tubes under Quasi-Static and Dynamic Axial Loading Conditions: A Comparative Experimental Study
Authors: Lykakos Stavros S. A. , Kostazos Protesilaos K. , Venetsanos Odysseas-Vasilios , Manolakos Dimitrios E.
Published: June 2021

Offshore structures are exposed to risks of vessel collisions and impacts from dropped objects. Tubular members are extensively used in offshore construction, and thus, there is scope to investigate their crashworthiness behaviour. Aluminium, glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) and hybrid aluminium/GFRP circular tube specimens were fabricated and then tested under quasi-static and dynamic axial loading conditions. Two hybrid configurations were examined: external and internal layers from respectively aluminium and GFRP, and vice versa. The material impregnated with epoxy resin woven glass fabric was allowed to cure attached to the aluminium layer to ensure interlayer bonding. The quasi-static and dynamic tests were conducted using respectively a universal testing machine at a prescribed crosshead speed of 10 mm/min, and a 78 kg drop hammer released from 2.5 m. The non-hybrid configurations (aluminium and GFRP specimens) outperformed their hybrid counterparts in terms of crashworthiness characteristics.
Low-Cost, Low-Profile Wide-Band Radar Cross Section Reduction Using Dual-Concentric Phase Gradient Modulated Surface
Authors: Azizi Yousef , Soleimani Mohammad , Sedighy Seyed Hasan , Matekovits Ladislau
Published: June 2021

Design criteria of low-cost, dual-concentric metasurface possessing wideband phase gradient (PG) are introduced. The radar cross-section reduction (RCSR) is explained by anomalous reflection that characterizes the superficial planar. The geometry consists of two single band RCSR modulated surfaces (MSs) that are triggered in each other. Each MS is built-up of square patch (SP) unit cells configured as a modulation structure to realize PG that causes anomalous reflection and monostatic RCSR behavior. Applying sinusoidal modulation to the sequence of the SP unit cells leads to the formation of PG along the surface and hence the intensity of the reflected wave is reduced for the broadside direction (θr=0∘). The proposed structure fabricated on a 0.8 mm thin FR-4 substrate extends over 249 × 249 mm2. It achieves a wide RCSR bandwidth from 20.9 GHz to 45.7 GHz (i.e., relative bandwidth of 75%) as designed in Dassault Systèmes (CST) Microwave Studio as a full-wave simulator and confirmed by the measurement results.
Effect of Prunus serotina Ehrh. Volatile Compounds on Germination and Seedling Growth of Pinus sylvestris L.
Authors: Halarewicz Aleksandra , Szumny Antoni , Bączek Paulina
Published: June 2021

In temperate European forests invaded by Prunus serotina Ehrh. (black cherry), a reduction in the spontaneous regeneration capacity of Pinus sylvestris L. (Scots pine) is observed. It could be caused by various factors, including allelopathic properties of this invasive plant. In this study the phytotoxic effect of P. serotina volatile compounds on P. sylvestris and the seasonal variation in this effect were assessed. Simple assays showed that volatiles emitted from P. serotina leaves significantly inhibited root growth of P. sylvestris seedlings. Their negative effect on stem growth was much weaker. The strongest phytotoxic effect on Scots pine seedlings was caused by the volatiles emitted from the youngest black cherry leaves. In fresh foliage of P. serotina, nineteen volatile organic compounds were identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The dominant compound was benzaldehyde. On the basis of tests of linalool alone, it was found that this monoterpene present in the volatile fraction has a strong allelopathic potential and inhibits germination, root elongation and shoot elongation of pine seedlings. The results of our research suggest that volatile compounds from P. serotina leaves could limited survival of P. sylvestris individuals in the seedling phase.
Long-Term Projections of the Natural Expansion of the Pine Wood Nematode in the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: de la Fuente Begoña , Saura Santiago
Published: June 2021

The invasive pine wood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, causal agent of pine wilt disease, was first reported in Europe, near Lisbon, in 1999, and has since then spread to most of Portugal. We here modelled the spatiotemporal patterns of future PNW natural spread in the Iberian Peninsula, as dispersed by the vector beetle Monochamus galloprovincialis, using a process-based and previously validated network model. We improved the accuracy, informative content, forecasted period and spatial drivers considered in previous modelling efforts for the PWN in Southern Europe. We considered the distribution and different susceptibility to the PWN of individual pine tree species and the effect of climate change projections on environmental suitability for PWN spread, as we modelled the PWN expansion dynamics over the long term (>100 years). We found that, in the absence of effective containment measures, the PWN will spread naturally to the entire Iberian Peninsula, including the Pyrenees, where it would find a gateway for spread into France. The PWN spread will be relatively gradual, with an average rate of 0.83% of the total current Iberian pine forest area infected yearly. Climate was not found to be an important limiting factor for long-term PWN spread, because (i) there is ample availability of alternative pathways for PWN dispersal through areas that are already suitable for the PWN in the current climatic conditions; and (ii) future temperatures will make most of the Iberian Peninsula suitable for the PWN before the end of this century. Unlike climate, the susceptibility of different pine tree species to the PWN was a strong determinant of PWN expansion through Spain. This finding highlights the importance of accounting for individual tree species data and of additional research on species-specific susceptibility for more accurate modelling of PWN spread and guidance of related containment efforts.
Compost and PGP-Based Biostimulant as Alternative to Peat and NPK Fertilization in Chestnut (Castanea Sativa Mill.) Nursery Production
Authors: Fuertes-Mendizábal Teresa , Huérfano Ximena , Ortega Unai , González-Murua Carmen , Estavillo José María , Salcedo Isabel , Duñabeitia Miren K.
Published: June 2021

In forest nurseries, intensive use of non-renewable substrates such as peat and high application rates of chemical synthesis fertilizers lead to environmental problems and high susceptibility to biotic and abiotic stresses. This work aims to seek more sustainable crop management to help mitigate these problems, combining the substitution of peat by compost and the use of growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPs) as a fertilization tool. For this purpose, a trial was carried out to test the effectiveness of an agricultural waste compost and a biostimulant based on PGP microorganisms in the production of Castanea sativa plants in a forest nursery. This trial assessed the growth of plants, with both inputs separately and combined, and then studied the tolerance of chestnut seedlings to water deficit. The results showed that partial substitution of peat by compost is possible, but not complete, as the high levels of conductivity and pH generated by a high proportion of compost negatively affected plant growth. It was also noted that the application of the biostimulant enables the complete substitution of mineral fertilization. Moreover, at the end of the nursery phase, chestnut seedlings treated with the biostimulant showed the same or even better quality than chestnut seedlings obtained with conventional fertilization, also resulting in greater resistance to water deficit, based on the increase in root volume and the improvement of the physiological status. Changes observed in both quantity and composition of microbiota associated with chestnut rhizosphere after inoculation with PGPs were related to the improvement observed. In relation to water deficit resistance, a positive synergy was also observed with the combination of both inputs, since plants with full substitution of peat by compost combined with PGP-based fertilization showed the greatest drought resistance.
The Variation in the Stoichiometric Characteristics of the Leaves and Roots of Karst Shrubs
Authors: Zou Zhigang , Zeng Fuping , Zeng Zhaoxia , Du Hu , Tang Hui , Zhang Hao
Published: June 2021

Currently, vegetation restoration is being implemented in the ecologically fragile karst areas in southwest China; however, the stoichiometry of the dominant shrubs and their relationship with the environmental factors in the degraded habitats is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the stoichiometry of C, N, and P, their internal correlations, and influencing factors in 23 shrub species in the Huanjiang County in northwest Guangxi Province, China. We found that the mean contents of C, N and P in leaves were higher than those in roots. In addition, the N:P ratio in the leaves was significantly higher than that in the roots, but the opposite was observed for the C:N and C:P ratios. Except for Leaf C and Root C, significant positive or negative correlations were observed across the stoichiometry of the shrub leaves and roots. A factor analysis of variance demonstrated that the differences across species had higher explanatory power than the topography and soil nutrients in terms of the shrub leaf and root stoichiometry. Hence, our results can improve the understanding of the distribution patterns of these vital elements, as well as of the interactions and influencing factors in the different organs of the karst shrubs.
Effects of Planting Density on Morphological and Photosynthetic Characteristics of Leaves in Different Positions on Cunninghamia lanceolata Saplings
Authors: Huang Zhijun , Liu Qingqing , An Bo , Wu Xiaojian , Sun Linjun , Wu Pengfei , Liu Bo , Ma Xiangqing
Published: June 2021

The improvement of the stand yield and economic benefits of Cunninghamialanceolata (Lamb.) Hook, one of the most important plantation trees in China, has always been a concern. An appropriate planting density plays an important role in increasing productivity. To determine the optimum planting density of C. lanceolata, we measured leaf morphology, gas exchange parameters, and photosynthetic pigments in replicate leaves on 4-year-old saplings grown in four canopy positions under a low (D1), medium (D2), and high (D3) planting density (approximately 900, 2505, and 6660 trees·ha−1, respectively). We then ranked trait variations using the coefficient of variation to explore the influence of planting density. Planting density significantly influenced the leaf morphology, gas exchange parameters, and the photosynthetic pigment contents of C. lanceolata. Medium planting density (D2) resulted in a larger leaf area and specific leaf areas, a higher net photosynthesis rate, and higher photosynthetic pigment contents. The responses of leaf gas exchange parameters had the most plastic traits that responded to planting density. An appropriate planting density and leaf position might improve C. lanceolata leaf morphology and physiological attributes, which in turn would facilitate growth.
Effect of Gaseous Ozone on Listeria monocytogenes Planktonic Cells and Biofilm: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Panebianco Felice , Rubiola Selene , Chiesa Francesco , Civera Tiziana , Di Ciccio Pierluigi Aldo
Published: June 2021

Among food-borne pathogens, Listeria monocytogenes continues to pose concerns to food business operators due to its capacity to form biofilm in processing environments. Ozone may be an eco-friendly technology to control microbial contaminations, but data concerning its effect on Listeria monocytogenes biofilm are still limited. In this study, the effect of gaseous ozone at 50 ppm on planktonic cells and biofilm of reference and food-related Listeria monocytogenes strains was evaluated. Ozone caused a reduction in microbial loads of 3.7 ± 0.4 and 3.9 ± 0.4 Log10 CFU/mL after 10 and 30 min, respectively. A complete inactivation of planktonic cells after 6 h of treatment was observed. Biofilm inhibition and eradication treatments (50 ppm, 6 h) resulted in a significant decrease of the biofilm biomass for 59% of the strains tested, whilst a slight dampening of live cell loads in the biofilm state was observed. In conclusion, gaseous ozone is not sufficient to completely counteract Listeria monocytogenes biofilm, but it may be useful as an additional tool to contrast Listeria monocytogenes free-living cells and to improve the existing sanitization procedures in food processing environments.
Sensory Lexicon and Major Volatiles of Rakı Using Descriptive Analysis and GC-FID/MS
Authors: Darıcı Merve , Özcan Koray , Beypınar Duygu , Cabaroglu Turgut
Published: June 2021

Rakı is a traditional and Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) alcoholic beverage that is distilled from grape distillate with Pimpinella anisum L. in copper pot stills in Turkey. This study focused on the development of a sensory lexicon, a sensory wheel, using a consensus approach and the determination of major volatiles by GC-FID/MS for Rakı. A total of 37 Rakı samples representing all producers were used for volatile and sensory evaluation. The experts identified 78 attributes and references for the lexicon. The main attributes were spicy, anise, sweet, resinous, fruity, dry fruit, floral, head&tail aroma and white colour. The Rakı sensory wheel was created to provide a graphical display of its sensory attributes. For validation of the lexicon, 18 samples were evaluated using descriptive analysis. The results were subjected to PCA to examine the relationship of the samples with the defined sensory attributes. The PCA results show that there is a significant relationship between the Rakı categories and sensory terms and flavour intensities. The GC-MS analyses depicted the following major volatile compounds n-propanol, 2-methyl-1-propanol, 2 and 3-methyl-1-butanol, ethyl-acetate, acetal, acetaldehyde, trans-anethol and estragole. The characterization of the product using its most distinctive sensory descriptors are important tool and can be used for the industry, marketing, consumer education and scientists.
Bioactive Compounds of Nutraceutical Value from Fishery and Aquaculture Discards
Authors: Mutalipassi Mirko , Esposito Roberta , Ruocco Nadia , Viel Thomas , Costantini Maria , Zupo Valerio
Published: June 2021

Seafood by-products, produced by a range of different organisms, such as fishes, shellfishes, squids, and bivalves, are usually discarded as wastes, despite their possible use for innovative formulations of functional foods. Considering that “wastes” of industrial processing represent up to 75% of the whole organisms, the loss of profit may be coupled with the loss of ecological sustainability, due to the scarce recycling of natural resources. Fish head, viscera, skin, bones, scales, as well as exoskeletons, pens, ink, and clam shells can be considered as useful wastes, in various weight percentages, according to the considered species and taxa. Besides several protein sources, still underexploited, the most interesting applications of fisheries and aquaculture by-products are foreseen in the biotechnological field. In fact, by-products obtained from marine sources may supply bioactive molecules, such as collagen, peptides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidant compounds, and chitin, as well as catalysts in biodiesel synthesis. In addition, those sources can be processed via chemical procedures, enzymatic and fermentation technologies, and chemical modifications, to obtain compounds with antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic, and anti-coagulant effects. Here, we review the main discards from fishery and aquaculture practices and analyse several bioactive compounds isolated from seafood by-products. In particular, we focus on the possible valorisation of seafood and their by-products, which represent a source of biomolecules, useful for the sustainable production of high-value nutraceutical compounds in our circular economy era.
Impact of Heating Rates on Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris Heat Resistance under Non-Isothermal Treatments and Use of Mathematical Modelling to Optimize Orange Juice Processing
Authors: Huertas Juan-Pablo , Ros-Chumillas María , Garre Alberto , Fernández Pablo S. , Aznar Arantxa , Iguaz Asunción , Esnoz Arturo , Palop Alfredo
Published: June 2021

Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris is a spoilage microorganism responsible for relevant product and economic losses in the beverage and juice industry. Spores of this microorganism can survive industrial heat treatments and cause spoilage during posterior storage. Therefore, an effective design of processing treatments requires an accurate understanding of the heat resistance of this microorganism. Considering that industrial treatments are dynamic; this understanding must include how the heat resistance of the microorganism is affected by the heating rate during the heating and cooling phases. The main objective of this study was to establish the effect of heating rates and complex thermal treatments on the inactivation kinetics of A. acidoterrestris. Isothermal experiments between 90 and 105 °C were carried out in a Mastia thermoresistometer, as well as four different dynamic treatments. Although most of the inactivation takes place during the holding phase, our results indicate the relevance of the heating phase for the effectiveness of the treatment. The thermal resistance of A. acidoterrestris is affected by the heating rate during the heating phase. Specifically, higher heating rates resulted in an increased microbial inactivation with respect to the one predicted based on isothermal experiments. These results provide novel information regarding the heat response of this microorganism, which can be valuable for the design of effective heat treatments to improve product safety and stability. Moreover, it highlights the need to incorporate experimental data based on dynamic treatments in process design, as heating rates can have a very significant effect on the thermal resistance of microorganisms.
Elucidation of Volatiles, Anthocyanins, Antioxidant and Sensory Properties of cv. Caner Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Juices Produced from Three Juice Extraction Methods
Authors: Budiene Jurga , Guclu Gamze , Oussou Kouame Fulbert , Kelebek Hasim , Selli Serkan
Published: June 2021

This study deals with the characterization of the phytochemical profiles and antioxidant activities of cv. Caner pomegranate (Punica granatum) juices obtained from three different juice extraction methods including halved pomegranate (HPJ), arils (AJ), and macerated arils (MAJ) extraction for the first time. It was found that the type of the juice extraction process had substantial effects on the volatiles, anthocyanin compositions, and antioxidant activities of the samples. Results showed that the AJ sample (593 mg L−1) had more anthocyanin compounds followed by HPJ (555 mg L−1) and MAJ (408 mg L−1) samples. GC-MS analysis revealed a total of 34 volatile compounds. The highest number of volatiles was found in the MAJ sample (1872 µg L−1); thus, the aril maceration process played an important role in increasing the volatiles as compared to the HPJ (751.8 µg L−1) and AJ (710.7 µg L−1) samples. Sensory analysis showed that the HPJ sample was the most preferred and its general impression was higher as compared to the AJ and MAJ samples. The findings of this study elucidated that the juice extraction technique had a significant influence on the phytochemical profiles, sensory quality, and antioxidant activity of pomegranate juices.
Sourdough Biotechnology Applied to Gluten-Free Baked Goods: Rescuing the Tradition
Authors: Ramos Laura , Alonso-Hernando Alicia , Martínez-Castro Miriam , Morán-Pérez Jose Alejandro , Cabrero-Lobato Patricia , Pascual-Maté Ana , Téllez-Jiménez Eduardo , Mujico Jorge R.
Published: June 2021

Recent studies suggest that the beneficial properties provided by sourdough fermentation may be translated to the development of new GF products that could improve their technological and nutritional properties. The main objective of this manuscript is to review the current evidence regarding the elaboration of GF baked goods, and to present the latest knowledge about the so-called sourdough biotechnology. A bibliographic search of articles published in the last 12 years has been carried out. It is common to use additives, such as hydrocolloids, proteins, enzymes, and emulsifiers, to technologically improve GF products. Sourdough is a mixture of flour and water fermented by an ecosystem of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeasts that provide technological and nutritional improvements to the bakery products. LAB-synthesized biopolymers can mimic gluten molecules. Sourdough biotechnology is an ecological and cost-effective technology with great potential in the field of GF products. Further research is necessary to optimize the process and select species of microorganisms robust enough to be competitive in any circumstance.
Rice Bran Fermented with Kimchi-Derived Lactic Acid Bacteria Prevents Metabolic Complications in Mice on a High-Fat and -Cholesterol Diet
Authors: Park Sihoon , Chang Hae-Choon , Lee Jae-Joon
Published: June 2021

This aim of this study was to investigate the potential beneficial effects of rice bran powder, fermented by Weissella koreensis DB1 isolated from kimchi, to protect against obesity and dyslipidemia induced by a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet, in a mouse model. Male mice were fed a modified AIN-93M diet containing high fat/high-cholesterol (HFCD), or same diet supplemented with non-fermented rice bran powder (HFCD-RB) or fermented rice bran powder (HFCD-FRB) for 10 weeks. In the HFCD-FRB group, body weight, liver and white fat pads weights, triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), non-high-density lipopreotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), insulin, glucose and leptine levels in serum, TG levels and the ratio of fat droplets in the liver, TG levels and fat cell size in adipose tissue were decreased, and (high-density lipopreotein cholesterol) HDL-C and adiponectin levels in serum were increased, compared with the HFCD group. The HFCD-FRB group had significantly lower CCAAT-enhancer-binding potein α (C/EBPα), sterol regulatory element-binding transcription protein-1c (SREBP-1c), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACC) gene expression when compared to the HFCD group. The anti-obesity and hypolipidemic effects were marginally greater in the HFCD-FRB group than in the HFCD-RB group. These results suggest that fermented rice bran powder by Weissella koreensis DB1 may have potential beneficial effects on the obesity-related abnormalities and the dysfunction of lipid metabolism.
Reduced Multiplicative (BURA-MR) and Additive (BURA-AR) Best Uniform Rational Approximation Methods and Algorithms for Fractional Elliptic Equations
Authors: Harizanov Stanislav , Kosturski Nikola , Lirkov Ivan , Margenov Svetozar , Vutov Yavor
Published: June 2021

Numerical methods for spectral space-fractional elliptic equations are studied. The boundary value problem is defined in a bounded domain of general geometry, Ω⊂Rd, d∈{1,2,3}. Assuming that the finite difference method (FDM) or the finite element method (FEM) is applied for discretization in space, the approximate solution is described by the system of linear algebraic equations Aαu=f, α∈(0,1). Although matrix A∈RN×N is sparse, symmetric and positive definite (SPD), matrix Aα is dense. The recent achievements in the field are determined by methods that reduce the original non-local problem to solving k auxiliary linear systems with sparse SPD matrices that can be expressed as positive diagonal perturbations of A. The present study is in the spirit of the BURA method, based on the best uniform rational approximation rα,k(t) of degree k of tα in the interval [0,1]. The introduced additive BURA-AR and multiplicative BURA-MR methods follow the observation that the matrices of part of the auxiliary systems possess very different properties. As a result, solution methods with substantially improved computational complexity are developed. In this paper, we present new theoretical characterizations of the BURA parameters, which gives a theoretical justification for the new methods. The theoretical estimates are supported by a set of representative numerical tests. The new theoretical and experimental results raise the question of whether the almost optimal estimate of the computational complexity of the BURA method in the form O(Nlog2N) can be improved.