bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substances based on natural fungal compounds inhibit the biofilm of various Stenotrophomonas maltophilia isolates
Authors: Gudzuhn Mirja , Alio Ifey , Steinmann Jörg , Schützenmeister Nina , Streit Wolfgang R.
Published: July 2020

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a multidrug resistant human nosocomial opportunistic pathogen. It contributes to disease progression in cystic fibrosis patients and is found in wounds, other infected tissues and on catheter surfaces. S. maltophilia is globally distributed and forms 23 distinct phylogenetic clusters (1, 2). Due to its multidrug resistance, it is extremely difficult to heal S. maltophilia caused infections. Colistin is a last-resort antibiotic against multidrug resistant pathogens. However, this study reveals that the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of colistin varies strongly between 22 tested clinical isolates by ranging from 6.25 - >100 µg/ml. The minimal biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) was detected to be much higher. On 41% of the isolates, colistin proved to be very effective on planktonic cells (MIC-value ≤6.25 µg/ml), but less effective on biofilm cells represented by only 18% of the isolates (MBIC-value <100 µg/ml). Thus, we screened for substances, which prevented specifically the biofilm formation or were involved in the removal of established biofilms. We identified several natural fungal compounds and synthetically produced analogues that affect the biofilm of S. maltophilia. In microtiter plate assays, the three substances HH-R6, HH-R8 and HH-R9, which belong to the rubrolides, had with 63 - 83 % the strongest biofilm reduction effect on the biofilm of S. maltophilia K279a. However, microscopy of the biofilms still revealed some living adhered cells although the biofilm structure was strongly impaired. Furthermore, the antibiofilm effect and the impact on the biofilm structure varied strongly among different clinical S. maltophilia isolates. Ongoing transcriptome analyses are expected to shed light on the biofilm inhibiting mechanism of these substances and to get further evidences how they can be used in a clinical setting in the future.

 

1   Steinmann J., Mamat U., Abda E.M., et al. Analysis of Phylogenetic Variation of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Reveals Human-Specific Branches. Front Microbiol. 2018, 9:806 (2018). doi:10.3389/fmicb.2018.00806

2   Gröschel, M.I., Meehan, C.J., Barilar, I. et al. The phylogenetic landscape and nosocomial spread of the multidrug-resistant opportunist Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. Nat Commun 11, 2044 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-020-15123-0
The effect of synthetic microbial spatial self-organization on the fate of antibiotic resistance genes
Authors: Ma Yinyin , Johnson David
Published: July 2020

Biofilms are considered as hotspots for the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), but very few studies have investigated the fate of ARGs (e.g. proliferation or elimination) in situ given different microbial spatial self-organization (SSO). SSO refers to a pervasive process during biofilm formation when microbes arrange themselves non-randomly across surfaces. So far the causes of SSO have been uncovered in a sense, however, the consequences of SSO were largely overlooked. Here, I hypothesize that the magnitude of inter-species intermixing, as one fundamental character of SSO, will determine the fate of ARG-carrying conjugative plasmid in both absence and presence of antibiotic selection. I evaluated this by performing range expansion experiments on agar plates to develop an artificial biofilm using a synthetic microbial community consisting of two isogenic Pseudomonas Stutzeri A1501 who are facultative denitrifiers in anaerobic condition. By knocking out different functional genes responsible for different steps of denitrification I am able to modify the metabolic interactions between these two strains from competing (without trophic interaction) to cross-feeding (with trophic interaction), which will further result in different magnitude of inter-species intermixing. Competing group has lower magnitude due to demixing of two, while cross-feeding group has higher magnitude due to mixing. I observed that in the absence of antibiotic selection plasmid experienced faster pace of elimination in competing group than cross-feeding group, whereas in the presence of antibiotic selection plasmid proliferated more efficiently in cross-feeding group than competing group. These results suggest that SSO is a determining factor of the fate of ARGs in biofilms, which provides a novel perspective of better understanding ARGs-related pressing problems facing our society.
Pharmaceuticals and biofilms in a fresh-water stream in the south of Sweden
Authors: Hagberg Aleksandra , Gupta Shashank , Rzhepishevska Olena , Fick Jerker , Burmølle Mette , Ramstedt Madeleine
Published: July 2020

Pharmaceuticals and biofilms in a fresh-water stream in the south of Sweden

Aleksandra Hagberg1, Shashank Gupta2, Olena Rzhepishevska1, Jerker Fick1, Mette Burmølle2, Madeleine Ramstedt1

1) Department of Chemistry, Umeå Center for Microbial Research, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden

2) Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark

 

Pharmaceuticals have been detected in the aquatic environment all around the globe. The usage of medicine is growing every year, increasing the number of pharmaceutical residues released into the environment. Chronic exposure creates a significant threat to aquatic organisms. For this reason, it is crucial to investigate how pharmaceuticals can affect inhabitants of the aquatic ecosystem. In our study, we aimed to investigate how pharmaceuticals influenced the sessile bacterial species pattern in the Knivsta river in the south of Sweden. By placing the four sampling points before and after contamination (upstream and downstream), we aimed to see differences between locations that were chronically exposed to pharmaceuticals from a local sewage treatment plant and those that remained unexposed. Sampling was made three times in one year. Bacterial populations were analyzed by sequencing 16S RNA. Water chemistry with respect to pharmaceutical content was determined with LC-MS. Bacterial isolates were also collected and showed a range of phenotypes.

 
A particle-based model to investigate nanoparticle diffusion in a 3D biofilm environment
Authors: Coppens Bart , Pešek Jiří , Smeets Bart , Ramon Herman
Published: July 2020

Biofilms exhibit heavily increased antibiotic tolerance in comparison to planktonic bacteria, leading to chronic complications during infection. This increased tolerance originates from extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). By binding the antibiotics, they limit access of active compounds to target sites. Embedding the antibiotics in polymer nanoparticles (NPs) provides a promising strategy to deal with this inactivation mechanism. Antibiotic compounds are then protected from unwanted interaction with the biofilm matrix. However, diffusion and subsequently penetration of NPs in the biofilm becomes the limiting factor. Chemical surface modifications would then allow to modify NP interaction with the biofilm and mediate deeper penetration. 

We present a particle-based model to investigate how structural differences in the biofilm impact NP diffusion, which can later be used to evaluate performance of various NP surface properties. We model the structure of the biofilm, diffusion of low NP concentrations and their interaction with the biofilm. Spherocylindrical bacteria are seeded according to empirically-derived structural parameters such as cell-cell distance, vertical and radial alignment. Interactions with the EPS matrix are represented as spherical zones with higher effective viscosity around the bacteria. We then use this setup to study how differences in biofilm organization and differences in matrix viscosity influence NP penetration depth. 

We show that sterical interaction with the bacteria alone is insufficient to explain the slowdown in diffusion found in single particle tracking (SPT) experiments. Higher effective EPS viscosity leads to lower NP penetration, but spread of the EPS zones were found to lower NP penetration more. These results are consistent with literature. 

The method we present here is suitable to evaluate the diffusion and entrapment of NPs in small concentrations in a heterogeneous biofilm environment, taking interactions with EPS and structure of the biofilm into account. Organization of the bacteria and the nature of interaction with EPS can be spatially varied and NPs can actively change the environment. This setup can be used on large scale biofilms, in contrast to computational fluid dynamics approaches, where the amount of computational cells would outscale the number of particles in the simulation. This particle-based model additionally allows to model interactions between NPs such as aggregation. The current coarse graining method for interactions between EPS and NPs allows to increase scale with less strain on the computational cost. This model will provide a solid base to study the fate of nanoparticles in highly heterogeneous biofilms and provide suggestions for NP surface properties and increase success rate for nanomedicine development. 
A membrane-based biofilm photobioreactor for enhanced algal growth rates
Authors: Garg Meenu , Perez-Calleja Patricia , Garcia-Perez J. Saul , Ontiveros-Valencia Aura , Picioreanu Cristian , Parra-Saldivar Roberto , Nerenberg Robert
Published: July 2020

Biofilm-based algal processes are increasingly used for wastewater treatment, carbon capture, and production of biofuels and other valuable products. They provide high cell densities, are more robust, and are easier to harvest and concentrate than suspended algae. However, algal biofilms are more likely to experience carbon limitation, O2 inhibition, and pH limitations, especially when thick and exposed to high light intensities. To address these limitations, we studied a novel photobioreactor based on CO2-supplying hollow-fiber membranes, where the algal biofilms grow directly on the membranes. We used modelling and experiments to study our membrane biofilm photobioreactor (MB-PBR) system and to compare it to a control with atmospheric CO2 and bicarbonate supplied in the bulk liquid.

Mathematical models of the MB-PBR and the control were developed using COMSOL Multiphysics®. The models included phototrophic growth, diffusion of gases (CO2, O2, N2) across the membrane, nutrient diffusion from the bulk liquid, pH-dependent carbonate speciation, and light attenuation. Experimentally, we compared the MB-PBR and control using bench-scale photobioreactors with hollow-fiber membranes attached to them, 10% BG-11 media and white light from an LED lamp. The MB-PBR membranes were supplied with 5% CO2 and 95% N2.  The control system had sealed membranes, to prevent gas exchange.  We measured the biomass dry weight gravimetrically and the biofilm growth rates by daily measurement of the thicknesses using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Both modeling and experiments suggested that MB-PBR biofilms grow significantly faster than the control. Using our model, we studied the effect of light intensity, pH, buffer concentration and light and oxygen inhibition on MB-PBR behavior. Growth was inhibited by excessively high levels of light and O2. By providing CO2 through the membrane, the carbon limitation was minimized, O2 was stripped from the biofilm, and pH shifts were attenuated. These results suggest the MB-PBR may provide a more efficient platform for algal biofilm processes.
Decrypting the matrix: how interspecies interactions influence matrix in multispecies biofilm?
Authors: Amador Cristina , L. Røder Henriette , Kuhlicke Ute , Neu Thomas , Burmølle Mette
Published: July 2020

The biofilm matrix contributes to the establishment of microbial cells on very diverse surfaces, stabilizing biofilms and providing cells with protection against multiple hostile conditions. Moreover, the biofilm matrix can also retain nutrients, enzymes or quorum sensing molecules, favoring the establishment of social interactions among biofilm cells. Functional bacterial amyloids are part of the biofilm structural components of various species, and they were previously proven to bind QS molecules and strengthen the matrix. Multiple studies have been conducted to characterize matrix determinants and their regulation in single species biofilms, while these remain scarcely understood in multispecies biofilms. We have previously isolated and characterized a soil-derived consortium composed of Xanthomonas retroflexus, Stenotrophomonas rhizophila, Microbacterium oxydans and Paenibacillus amylolyticus showing enhanced biofilm biomass and differential gene/protein expression specific of the four-species biofilm.

This study aimed at exploring the effect of interspecies interactions on biofilm matrix production in the four-species biofilm. We hypothesize that interspecies interactions may result in differential expression of matrix-encoding genes responsible for biofilm emergent properties.

We searched for matrix determinant homologues in X.retroflexus and combined different techniques for characterizing the matrix identity and expression in mono-, dual- and multispecies biofilms.

The fap amyloid operon, described in Pseudomonas as a biofilm-scaffold contributing element, was deleted in X. retroflexus, replaced in the four-species model and compared to the parental community for biofilm structure and adhesion capability. The fap mutant displayed poor substrate colonization in flow cells in both mono- and multispecies biofilms with relative filamentous structure compared to the parental strain/ consortium. However, adhesion did not significantly change under static conditions. To characterize matrix composition, we tested 78 different lectins in multispecies biofilms and identified five that bound to our samples. Interestingly, some matrix glycoconjugates were only produced in the consortium.

Our data suggest that loss of matrix components, such as the Fap amyloid, and the presence of other species, influences synergistic biofilm properties in the four-species consortium. Ongoing approaches involving localized expression of matrix-encoding genes and matrix proteomes will aid in identifying the mechanisms underlying emergent properties in the four-species biofilm.

 
The Psychological Security Level of the Disabled Children in Qatar
Authors: Fakhrou Abdulnaser A. , Jaafar Zahrah Mousa , Ghareeb Sara A.
Published: July 2020

The present study aimed to explore the psychological security level of the disabled children in Qatar. The sample consists from 2735 female and male children. The psychological security scale was used. This scale was developed by Habeeb (2013). It consists from 20 items. It sheds a light on four dimensions of psychological security; (personal security, social acceptance, emotional security, and self-esteem). The validity and reliability of the scale were measured and considered satisfactory. It was found that the mean of the emotional security is ranked first, followed by the means of social acceptance, personal security and self-esteem respectively. It was found that the psychological security level of the respondents is moderate. It was found that the psychological security level is not affected by the type of the family that one lives in. The types of families include: stable families, families in which the parents are divorced and families in which one of the parents passed away.It was found that the psychological security level isaffected by the disability type. It was found that the psychological security level is affected by the type ofthe school that one is enrolled at. For instance, the students enrolled in public schools show a higher psychological security level than the students enrolled in private schools. The researchers suggest several recommendations and suggestions for researchers.
Impact of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus on the Cerebral Blood Vessels in Asymptomatic Patients in Egypt (Ultrasonographic Study)
Authors: Nasreldein Ahmed , Shehata Ghaydaa Ahmed , Ahmed Lobna Abdel-Wahid , Mahmoud Mohamed Fathy , Mohamed Khaled Osama
Published: July 2020

Background: Diabetes is an important risk factor of extra and intracranial stenosis and hence can cause cerebrovascular stroke. In Egypt, prevalence of asymptomatic extra and intracranial blood vessels stenosis in diabetic patients is still unknown. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of asymptomatic extra and intracranial vessels stenosis. Methods: 100 Patients with Type-2 Diabetes (T2D) were recruited consecutively from diabetes clinic of the department of internal medicine at Assiut University Hospitals in the period from 1st January 2016 to 31st January 2017. A detailed history was obtained for all participant. As well, thorough-out physical and neurologic examination were carried out for patients. All patients underwent extra cranial and transcranial colour coded ultrasound by two independent investigators. Patients with history of cerebrovascular stroke and transient ischemic attacks were excluded. Results: 36% of patients had increased IMT, 6% had stenosis 50-69% and 2% had stenosis ≥ 70%. There was a positive correlation between age and increased IMT (r = 0.272) (P = 0.006) and between uncontrolled DM and increased IMT (r = 0.211) (P = 0.035). 26% of patients had stenosis of < 50% in vertebral artery (21% in V0 segment, 5% in V1 segment); being male and uncontrolled diabetes escalate the stenosis risk. MCA pulsatility index was found to be higher among old diabetics in comparison to younger diabetics and control group (r = -0.225) (P = -0.025). Also, the longer the time since T2D onset, the higher was MCA PSV (r = 0.244) (P = 0.014). Conclusions: The cerebral blood vessels atherosclerotic changes (mainly extracranial) are higher among diabetics in comparison to healthy controls.
The Effect of Training (Aerobic and Concurrent) and Cinnamon Supplementation on the Plasma Levels of Visfatin and Adiponectin in Overweight Diabetic Men
Authors: Baigzadeh Mehdi , Hossienpour Delavar Sedigeh , Safikhani Hassan
Published: July 2020

Background: Diabetes is one of the most prevalent diseases caused by metabolic disorders, which is considered as a major global challenge. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two aerobic and concurrent (aerobic and resistance training) training protocols with supplementation of cinnamon on the level of some selected adipokines (visfatin and adiponectin) in overweight men with type 2 diabetes. Methods: for this purpose among The overweight and type II diabetic men in Kermanshah who were referred to a medical clinic, fifty people with BMI 28.55 ± 2.52 and age of 45.98 ± 6.79 who were volunteer to participate in research design, divided in five 10 people group consist of four experimental and one control group randomly. The experimental groups involve aerobic training, concurrent training, aerobic training along with cinnamon supplementation and eventually concurrent training along with cinnamon supplementation. While the experimental groups did the specific training, the control groups did no training throughout research design. Blood sampling were taken in experimental and control groups during pretest and posttest from anterior brachial vein. The variables were measured by ELISA method. Results: The results of ANCOVA and Bonferroni tests showed that both aerobic training and concurrent training (aerobic and resistance training) with and without cinnamon supplementation caused significant increase in plasma levels of adiponectin and significant decrease in plasma levels of visfatin in type two diabetic men.8 weeks of concurrent training in comparing with aerobic training was more effective in increasing the plasma levels of adiponectin and the difference between them was significant but the difference about plasma level of visfatin was insignificant. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that the effect of both aerobic and concurrent training with and without cinnamon supplementation has significant effect on plasma levels of adiponectin and visfatin and except more increase in adiponectin level in concurrent group in comparing with aerobic group, nearly there are no differences in terms of training type and taking and no taking of cinnamon supplementation. Based the finding of this study, both aerobic and concurrent training especially with cinnamon supplementation is effective in improving the health of men with type 2 and overweight diabetes.
ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction with Normal Coronary Arteries Angiography
Authors: Motedayen Morteza , Khederlou Hamid
Published: July 2020

: Myocardial infarction (MI) is the most frequent cause of ischemic heart death. MI is generally assumed to be due to arterial thrombosis superimposed on an atherosclerotic plaque in an epicardial coronary artery. Total occlusion of an epicardial coronary artery leads to ST elevation, while non-occlusive lesion leads to ST depression. We hereby have reported a case of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction with normal coronary arteries angiography. A 35-year-old man presented with typical chest pain, nausea, vomiting and cold sweating. ECG obtained at admission and 30 minutes later revealed sinus tachycardia with ST-segment elevations (> 2 mm) in leads V2-V5. Cardiac biomarkers including creatine phosphokinase (CPK), creatine kinase muscle-brain (CK.MB) and troponin high sensitive were elevated. The standard treatment for MI including pain relief, aspirin, thrombolysis if indicated and beta blockade were begun for the patient. STEMI was confirmed and thus, angiography was performed. Coronary angiography revealed normal coronary arteries without any angiographic evidence of stenosis, coronary artery dissection, embolism, plaque rupture or vasospasm.
Revolution or Ecocide
Authors: Fattor Eric ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: July 2020

This article addresses the place of situationist ideas in the current drive to make meaningful social and political change to avoid the catastrophic consequences of climate change. After a brief review of some key situationist concepts, the article shows how situationist thinkers post-1968 saw the prospect of environmental degradation as one of the key consequences of the social apathy induced by the spectacle and the grim prospects for the prevailing liberal assemblage of power to address the problem. The article concludes by briefly discussing the place of a situationist-inspired environmentalism in the larger debates about radical solutions to climate change.
Conventional Cytogenetic Analysis of Hematologic Neoplasms: A 20-Year Review of Proficiency Test Results From the College of American Pathologists/American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics Cytogenetics Committee
Authors: Larson Daniel P. , Akkari Yassmine M. , Van Dyke Daniel L. , Raca Gordana , Gardner Juli-Anne , Rehder Catherine W. , Kaiser-Rogers Kathleen A. , Eagle Penny , Yuhas Jason A. , Gu Jun , Toydemir Reha M. , Kearney Hutton , Conlin Laura K. , Tang Guilin , Dolan Michelle M. , Ketterling Rhett P. , Peterson Jess F.
Published: July 2020

Context.—

One goal of the joint College of American Pathologists/American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics Cytogenetics Committee is to ensure the accurate detection and description of chromosomal abnormalities in both constitutional and neoplastic specimens, including hematologic neoplasms.

Objective.—

To report a 20-year performance summary (1999–2018) of conventional chromosome challenges focusing on hematologic neoplasms.

Design.—

A retrospective review was performed from 1999 through 2018 to identify karyotype challenges specifically addressing hematologic neoplasms. The overall performance of participants was examined to identify potential recurring errors of clinical significance.

Results.—

Of 288 total conventional chromosome challenges from 1999–2018, 87 (30.2%) were presented in the context of a hematologic neoplasm, based on the provided clinical history, specimen type, and/or chromosomal abnormalities. For these 87 hematologic neoplasm challenges, 91 individual cases were provided and graded on the basis of abnormality recognition and karyotype nomenclature (ISCN, International System for Human Cytogenomic [previously Cytogenetic] Nomenclature). Of the 91 cases, 89 (97.8%) and 87 (95.6%) exceeded the required 80% consensus for grading of abnormality recognition and correct karyotype nomenclature, respectively. The 2 cases (2 of 91; 2.2%) that failed to meet the 80% consensus for abnormality recognition had complex karyotypes. The 4 cases (4 of 91; 4.4%) that failed to meet the 80% consensus for correct karyotype nomenclature were the result of incorrect abnormality recognition (2 cases), missing brackets in the karyotype (1 case), and incorrect breakpoint designation (1 case).

Conclusions.—

This 20-year review demonstrates clinical cytogenetics laboratories have been and continue to be highly proficient in the detection and description of chromosomal abnormalities associated with hematologic neoplasms.
Effect of Storage Treatments on Physiological and Anatomical Changes in Desiccation Sensitive Curry Leaf, Murraya koenigii (L.) Sprengel Seeds
Authors: Arulmoorthy K. , Raja K. , Sundareswaran S.
Published: July 2020

Curry leaf, Murraya koenigii (L.) Sprengel is mainly propagated through seeds, which have poor storage potential due to recalcitrant in nature. The present study evaluated the suitable storage method for prolonging the viability of the seed. The results showed that the shelf life of curry leaf seed was extended upto 40 days by storing in 300 gauge polythene bags at 10°C. However, the seeds stored under environmental condition maintained the viability upto 10 days only. Also, the seeds stored along with moist media have not better way for extending the shelf life when compared with seed stored at 10°C. The maximum seedling vigour and least electrical conductivity and free sugars were found in the seeds stored at 10°C. Seed chlorophyll, total phenols, protein and α-amylase activity were reduced during seed storage and the reduction was lower when the seeds were stored at 10°C. The damage in cell structures was also found in the desiccated seeds that the results showed that the curry leaf seeds can be stored upto 40 days in 300 gauge polythene bag at 10°C.
Social Discrimination of Tribal Agricultural Labourers of Wayanad District: A Critical Gender Analysis
Authors: Krishna J. Pooja , Kumar A. Anil
Published: July 2020

This investigation has been done on the basis of qualitative and quantitative data collected from primary sources and explored the social discrimination experienced by tribal agricultural labourers and differential perception of social discrimination by men and women tribal agricultural labourers in a descriptive manner. Tribal agricultural labourers, especially women, fall prey to high order of discrimination by the rest of the society. Tribal communities face socio-cultural, economic, political and gender discrimination from others. Among the tribal communities, Kattunaikans experience a high level of social discrimination than the Paniyas and Kurichiyas. Kurichiyas, who enjoy a better socio-economic status among the tribal communities, could defend the discrimination from others, while, Kattunaikars and Paniyas, who are considered as down-trodden, fall behind the mainstream society. While comparing the tribal men and women, the women experience a higher order of social discrimination, owing to their lower self-confidence, educational status, mass media exposure, political orientation, health and nutrition status and in addition to these, a lower level of awareness about the development programmes. Even though many government initiatives are taken for the welfare and upliftment of tribal people, the reality is that the benefits of these programmes do not reach the intended population.
Study of the Impact of Different Investor Behaviours on Market Volatility
Authors: Moghadam Abdolkarim , Ghiabi Hamidreza
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this research is to study the impact of different investor behavior on the volatility of the bourse market. The field study consists of the companies listed on the stock exchange during the years 2012-2016. In this study, the different investor behaviour is considered the independent variable and the market volatility is the dependent variable. The present research is an applied study, in case the classification of researches in characteristics and methodology is considered, this study is considered descriptive research based on its characteristics and it is in the correlation study category based on its methodology. In this study collecting data and information has been done by library method and the data compilation has been fulfilled by referring to the financial statements, explanatory notes and monthly magazine of the bourse. In sample size determination based on data collecting system, 114 companies have been selected as the sample statistics. In order to describe and summarize the collected data descriptive and inferential statistics have been utilized. In analyzing the data first pre-test of variance homogeneity, Limer F test, Hausman test and JB test and then the multivariable regression (Eviews software) for confirmation or rejection of the hypothesis of the research has been used. The results show that the different investor behaviour consisting of the trading value of capital, investors net business flow and the investor trading volume share has a considerable impact on the volatility of the stock exchange.
Wheat Variety Improvement for Climate Resilience
Authors: Puri Ramesh Raj , Tripathi Santosh , Bhattarai Rudra , Dangi Sangharash Raj , Pandey Deepak
Published: July 2020

High temperature stress unfavorably affects plant growth and reduces grain yield (GY). This study was conducted with an aim to identify the terminal heat tolerance of one hundred and two wheat genotypes with three checks. They were sown under normal (non-stress) and late (stress) conditions at Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Tarahara; RARS, Nepalgunj and National Wheat Research Program (NWRP), Bhairahawa, Nepal. The trial was sown in Augmented design during 2014/15 winter season as a Nepal heat tolerance wheat screening nursery (NHTWSN). Grain yield, maturity, stress susceptibility and tolerant indices were estimated to assess the heat tolerance of the genotypes. Combined analysis among the tested wheat lines (102 new entries + 3 checks) showed that KACHU//KIRITATI/WBLL1 ((Heat tolerance index (HTI) = 1.78) possessed the highest level of heat tolerance, followed by SLVS  /3/ CROC_1/ AE.SQUARROSA (224)// OPATA/5/ VEE/LIRA//BOW/3/BCN/4/KAUZ/6/ 2*KA/NAC//TRCH (HTI=1.57) while SUP152/VILLA JUAREZ F2009 (HTI=0.83) appeared to be the least heat tolerant. Correlation analysis showed that yield under stress environment had positive (r=0.083) and significant (p<0.05) association with that of non-stress environment. Grain yield (Kg/ha) under both environments had significant positive correlation with mean productivity (MP), geometric mean productivity (GMP) and HTI. Thirty seven wheat genotypes possessing heat tolerance will be considered in further heat tolerance trial and can also be used directly in varietal development and in the crossing program to breed more heat tolerant genotypes.
Evaluation of Different Weed Management Practices on Growth Variables and Yield of Wheat Varieties
Authors: Mostafa Md. Golam , Hassan Syed Arvin , Haq Md. Ehsanul , Habib Md. Ahasan , Fatema Kaniz , Kumar Tapan , Ahmed Bulbul , Shahriar Syfullah , Karim Md. Fazlul
Published: July 2020

A field experiment was conducted in medium fertile soil at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh during November 2017 to April 2018 in Rabi season with a view to evaluate the performance of wheat varieties under different weed control methods. The experiment was carried out with three varieties i.e. BARI Gom-28, BARI Gom-29 and BARI Gom-30 in the main plot and five weed management methods viz. control (no weeding), two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS, Panida 33EC (Pendimethalin) @ 2000 ml ha-1 at 5 DAS pre-emergence, Afinity 50.75WP (Isoproturon) 1500 g ha-1 at 25 DAS as post-emergence herbicide and Panida 33EC (Pendimethalin) @ 2000 ml ha-1 at 5 DAS + Afinity 50.75WP (Isoproturon)1500 g ha-1 at 25 DAS in the sub plot in split plot design. Nine different major weed species were found in the field such as Cynodon dactylon, Cyperus rotundus, Echinochloa colonum, Eleusine indica, Chenopodium album, Alternanthera philoxeroides, Brassica kaber, Leliotropium indicum, Vicia sativa. Results reveled that BARI Gom-30 contributed the highest grain yield 3.01 tha-1. Pre-emergence application of Panida 33EC controlled weeds significantly which showed highest growth followed by yield achieved in wheat. BARI Gom-30 in combination with Panida 33EC produced the highest grain yield 3.52 tha-1 while the lowest grain yield 2.09 t ha-1 was obtained from BARI Gom-28 with no weeding treatment. Results reveled that Panida 33EC (pre-emergence) was found more effective to controlling weeds in wheat. Results of the study finally reveled that Panida 33EC might be considered as a feasible option for combating weed and ensuring higher yield in wheat cultivation.
Some Considerations Regarding the Presence of Heavy Metals in Soil and the Human Body
Authors: Anițaș Simona , Coman Mirela , Cioruța Bogdan-Vasile
Published: July 2020

Until now, there have been laborious researches regarding the presence of heavy metals in environmental factors but their effects have been studied less in the bio-geo-chemical circuits, respectively within the local trophic chains and the regional trophic networks. Naturally, the metals existing in the earth's crust enter the bio-geo-chemical cycles. In the cells of higher organisms, as we know, there is a fragile balance between the amounts of metals needed for catalytic processes and toxic doses to organisms. However, this balance is dependent not only on the concentration and variety of metals in the Earth's crust but also on the microbiological activity of environmental factors, responsible for the transformation of these metals into complex chemical substances that affect more or less the organisms, respectively their enzymatic activity. The vital-necessary, but also the non-vital mineral substances in their mobile forms, which may at one time be toxic to organisms, are significantly pushed out by anthropic activities into trophic chains. They are present in environmental factors such as soil, air, water, reach the body of plants and the body of animals. Plants and animals can bioaccumulate and concentrate in their bodies several chemical elements in the environment, regardless of their origin, which is then easily transferred through food circuits into the human body. Thus, through local trophic chains, respectively through regional trophic networks, contamination of the human body takes place. This requires the need for a measure of most likely high complexity to mitigate the effects with a strong impact on the health status, including that of the human psychic. In severe cases of contamination, behavioral manifestations, especially among the vulnerable population, are proven.
FPOs in Telangana – Status and Strategies
Authors: Devi D. A. Rajini , Kumari R. Vijaya , Lavanya T. , Chary D. Srinivasa , Samuel G.
Published: July 2020

The concept of FPOs was started in the year 2011-12. In Telangana in 2013, ten FPOs were registered, in 2015, five FPOs were registered and in 2016, five FPOs were registered which were promoted by Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC). The current study offers insights on the status of these 20 FPOs and revealed that high levels of indebtedness, increasing unemployment and resultant migration are the serious problems confronting agricultural sector. The strategy of FPOs is innovative institutional support to the farmers to prevent the exploitation of farmers by the middlemen. The major reasons for the success of FPOs include group approach, strengthened linkages and increased income levels among the group members. The lack of financial support was the major hindrance for the functioning of FPOs in Telangana.
Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Fruit Yield and Quality of Peach (Prunus persica L. Batsch) cv. July Elberta
Authors: Solanki S. P. S. , Sharma Naveen C. , Chandel J. S. , Hota Debashish
Published: July 2020

The present studies were carried out in Experimental Block, Department of Fruit Science, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP) during the year 2015-16. Nine years old trees of uniform size and vigour planted at 4.0 x 2.0 m spacing were selected for the studies. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 11 treatments. The maximum increased in fruit set (87.70%) and yield (20.16 kg/tree) were observed significantly higher under 75% RDF + vermicompost 15 kg/tree. Maximum fruit length (64.06 mm), breadth (61.89 mm), fruit weight (129.51 g), total soluble solids (13.33 ºB) and total sugars (7.51%) were recorded under 75% RDF + vermicompost 15 kg/tree, however, highest fruit firmness (6.56 kg/cm2) and lowest titratable acidity (0.50%) were found with 4 applications of jeevamrut.
Extremum seeking control of nonlinear dynamic systems using Lie bracket approximations
Authors: Grushkovskaya Victoria , Ebenbauer Christian
Published: July 2020

In this article, we consider extremum seeking problems for a general class of nonlinear dynamic control systems. The main result of the article is a broad family of control laws which optimize the steady‐state performance of the system. We prove practical asymptotic stability of the optimal steady‐state and, moreover, propose sufficient conditions for the asymptotic stability in the sense of Lyapunov. The results generalize and extend existing results which are based on Lie bracket approximations. In particular, our approach does not rely on singular perturbation theory, as commonly used in extremum seeking of nonlinear dynamic systems.
Large‐Area Alignment of Supramolecular Columns by Photothermal Laser Writing
Authors: Park Kangho , Jin Hyeong Min , Kwon Kiok , Kim Jang Hwan , Yun Haeju , Han Kyu Hyo , Yun Taeyeong , Kim Sang Ouk , Jung Hee‐Tae
Published: July 2020

Controlling the orientation of highly periodic supramolecular structures of small feature size (<5 nm) is the first step for potential applications in optoelectronics, membranes, and template synthesis. A new method, namely, laser photothermal writing, is introduced to direct the orientation of supramolecular columns over a large area. Supramolecular columns consisting of taper‐shaped molecules with long aliphatic tail groups are aligned by a thermal gradient, which is induced by exposing a near‐infrared laser beam to a graphene photothermal conversion layer. Intriguingly, the orientation of the supramolecular columns can be controlled in a facile manner by varying the laser scanning velocity and power. In contrast to previous methodologies for aligning supramolecular structures, this laser photothermal mechanism allows the directional and continuous alignment of supramolecular structures over an arbitrary large area with the easy control of laser irradiation. Besides, the laser process also enables area‐selective orientation of the supramolecular structures for device‐oriented nanopatterning.
Dynamic Scattering Steering with Graphene‐Based Coding Metamirror
Authors: Zhang Jin , Zhang Heng , Yang Weixu , Chen Ke , Wei Xingzhan , Feng Yijun , Jin Ronghong , Zhu Weiren
Published: July 2020

The recent development of metasurfaces offers a unique technique for the arbitrary control of electromagnetic waves by spatially manipulating their amplitudes and phases. However, real time control in metasurfaces typically depends solely on dynamical phase modulation, but lacks of the amplitude modulation. In this paper, the dynamical amplitude modulation is tried to combine with phase coding metasurface, for the dynamical manipulation of electromagnetic scattering at microwave frequencies. Such an active metasurface is achieved by placing a patterned graphene layer on binary metallic resonators. When applying bias voltages on the graphene layer, continuous reflection amplitude modulation can be achieved for the selected resonators while the others are not affected. By this merit, two degrees of freedom, preset phase coding and dynamical amplitude modulation, are obtained to control the electromagnetic wave. As an example, a metasurface that can dynamically and continuously control the scattering pattern from mirror reflection to diffusion scattering is shown. The above concepts and physical phenomena are confirmed by numerical simulations and experiments.
Bahiagrass pasture and elephantgrass bioenergy cropping systems differ in root traits
Authors: Reyes‐Cabrera Joel , Erickson John E. , Leon Ramon G. , Quadros Danilo G. , Silveira Maria L. , Sollenberger Lynn E.
Published: July 2020

Root morphology and production are important for soil nutrient acquisition and C sequestration, but these traits are poorly understood in the bioenergy crop elephantgrass [Pennisetum purpureum (L.) Schum.]. Our objective was to characterize root traits of elephantgrass receiving different nutrient management practices in comparison with bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flüggé) pasture grown in the southeastern U.S. Treatments were bahiagrass + 50 kg N ha−1 (BHG), and elephantgrass receiving either: 50 kg N ha−1 (E50), 50 kg N ha−1 + biochar (E50BC), 50 kg N ha−1 + lignocellulosic fermentation residual (E50FR), or 250 kg N ha−1 (E250). Roots were sampled annually for 4 yr (2013‐2016). Root C and N concentration were measured at termination (2016) of the study. Both crop species exhibited similar root length density (RLD) and root mass density (RMD) across all depths in 2014 and 2015. BHG root diameter was 55% greater than all elephantgrass treatments. By 2016, E50FR increased elephantgrass RLD and RMD in the shallow soil layers (< 0.2 m). Root N content was 15–39% lower for all elephantgrass treatments than BHG in the 0‐0.1 m depth, and 22–25% lower for E50 and E50BC in the 0.1‐ to 0.2‐m depth compared with BHG. Additionally, roots C content was 6% higher in the 0‐0.1 m compared with the 0.1‐ to 0.2‐m soil depth irrespective of treatment. Application of biochar and lignocellulosic fermentation residual as amendments produced a stimulatory effect on elephantgrass root growth in soil shallow layers, which could affect nutrient and water acquisition.
Ecology and morphology of mouse lemurs (Microcebusspp.) in a hotspot of microendemism in northeastern Madagascar, with the description of a new species
Authors: Schüßler Dominik , Blanco Marina B. , Salmona Jordi , Poelstra Jelmer , Andriambeloson Jean B. , Miller Alex , Randrianambinina Blanchard , Rasolofoson David W. , Mantilla‐Contreras Jasmin , Chikhi Lounès , Louis Edward E. , Yoder Anne D. , Radespiel Ute
Published: July 2020

Delimitation of cryptic species is increasingly based on genetic analyses but the integration of distributional, morphological, behavioral, and ecological data offers unique complementary insights into species diversification. We surveyed communities of nocturnal mouse lemurs (Microcebusspp.) in five different sites of northeastern Madagascar, measuring a variety of morphological parameters and assessing reproductive states for 123 individuals belonging to five different lineages. We documented two different non‐sister lineages occurring in sympatry in two areas. In both cases, sympatric species pairs consisted of a locally restricted (M. macarthuriiorM. sp. #3) and a more widespread lineage (M. mittermeieriorM. lehilahytsara). Estimated Extents of Occurrence (EOO) of these lineages differed remarkably with 560 and 1,500 km2versus 9,250 and 50,700 km2, respectively. Morphometric analyses distinguished unambiguously between sympatric species and detected more subtle but significant differences among sister lineages. Tail length and body size were most informative in this regard. Reproductive schedules were highly variable among lineages, most likely impacted by phylogenetic relatedness and environmental variables. While sympatric species pairs differed in their reproductive timing (M. sp. #3/M. lehilahytsaraandM. macarthurii/M. mittermeieri), warmer lowland rainforests were associated with a less seasonal reproductive schedule forM. mittermeieriandM. lehilahytsaracompared with populations occurring in montane forests. Distributional, morphological, and ecological data gathered in this study support the results of genomic species delimitation analyses conducted in a companion study, which identified one lineage,M. sp. #3, as meriting formal description as a new species. Consequently, a formal species description is included. Worryingly, our data also show that geographically restricted populations ofM. sp. #3 and its sister species (M. macarthurii) are at high risk of local and perhaps permanent extinction from both deforestation and habitat fragmentation.
Can active life mitigate the impact of diabetes on dementia and brain aging?
Authors: Marseglia Anna , Darin‐Mattsson Alexander , Kalpouzos Grégoria , Grande Giulia , Fratiglioni Laura , Dekhtyar Serhiy , Xu Weili
Published: July 2020

Introduction

We investigated whether lifelong exposure to stimulating activities (active life, AL) mitigates diabetes‐associated dementia risk and brain aging.

Methods

In the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care‐Kungsholmen, 2286 dementia‐free older adults (407 with MRI volumetric measures) were followed over 12 years to detect incident dementia. AL index (low, moderate, high) combined education, work complexity, leisure activities, and social network.

Results

Participants with diabetes and low AL had higher dementia risk (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.36, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.45–3.87) than patients who were diabetes‐free with moderate‐to‐high AL (reference). Dementia risk in participants with diabetes and moderate‐to‐high AL did not differ from the reference. People with diabetes and low AL had the smallest brain volume, but those with diabetes and moderate‐to‐high AL exhibited total brain and gray‐matter volumes that were similar to those of diabetes‐free participants. AL did not modify the diabetes microvascular lesions association.

Discussion

AL could mitigate the deleterious impact of diabetes on dementia, potentially by limiting the loss of brain tissue volume.
Safety and target engagement profile of two oxaloacetate doses in Alzheimer's patients
Authors: Vidoni Eric D. , Choi In‐Young , Lee Phil , Reed Gregory , Zhang Na , Pleen Joseph , Mahnken Jonathan D. , Clutton Jonathan , Becker Annette , Sherry Erica , Bothwell Rebecca , Anderson Heidi , Harris Robert A. , Brooks William , Wilkins Heather M. , Mosconi Lisa , Burns Jeffrey M. , Swerdlow Russell H.
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Brain bioenergetics are defective in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Preclinical studies find oxaloacetate (OAA) enhances bioenergetics, but human safety and target engagement data are lacking.

Methods

We orally administered 500 or 1000 mg OAA, twice daily for 1 month, to AD participants (n = 15 each group) and monitored safety and tolerability. To assess brain metabolism engagement, we performed fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG PET) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy before and after the intervention. We also assessed pharmacokinetics and cognitive performance.

Results

Both doses were safe and tolerated. Compared to the lower dose, the higher dose benefited FDG PET glucose uptake across multiple brain regions (P < .05), and the higher dose increased parietal and frontoparietal glutathione (P < .05). We did not demonstrate consistent blood level changes and cognitive scores did not improve.

Conclusions

1000 mg OAA, taken twice daily for 1 month, is safe in AD patients and engages brain energy metabolism.