bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of methodologies used to assess bioethanol sustainability
Authors: Melo Larissa Pedrosa de , Marques José Jailton , Rocha Inaura Carolina Carneiro da
Published: November 2020

Considering the importance of the search for sustainability and the growing emphasis given to biofuels, promoted as a promising alternative energy, this study highlights the relevance of research that evaluates sustainability in the bioenergy sector, specifically bioethanol. The present work aims to analyze methodologies aimed at assessing the sustainability of bioethanol using a literature review and, based on this analysis, indicate the most suitable methodology. The most popular methodologies used to assess the sustainability of bioethanol were identified from the bibliographic survey and screened according to pre-established criteria of exclusion, based on keywords, and inclusion, regarding the pillars and biofuel addressed. First, it was found that the studies were conducted in different regional contexts and used different methodologies, which could provide both quantitative and qualitative results. After screening and selection, the evaluation methodologies adopted by each author were analyzed. This analysis made it possible to recognize the factors influencing the choice of methodology, where the suitability of a methodology to the particularities of each case was of great importance. Finally, considering the pre-defined criteria for assessing the sustainability of bioethanol, this paper recommends the GBEP (Global Bioenergy Partnership) methodology as the most appropriate, especially since it was created specifically for the bioenergetic sector and has an accessible application protocol. Lastly, it was also noted that few publications evaluate the sustainability of bioethanol considering its entire three dimensions (social, environmental, and economic), emphasizing the importance of developing more studies with this approach.
Possíveis efeitos de sentido na leitura sobre biotecnologia presente num livro didático
Authors: Montalvão Neto Alberto Lopo , Almeida Maria José Pereira Monteiro de
Published: November 2020

Considerando que a Biotecnologia possui muitas controvérsias, neste trabalho procuramos compreender como temas biotecnológicos aparecem num livro didático. Para isso, analisamos como textos escritos e imagens, presentes num capítulo de um livro didático de Biologia do Ensino Médio, podem contribuir para a produção de sentidos sobre os produtos biotecnológicos e sobre controvérsias a eles associados. Como apoio teórico-metodológico nos filiamos à Análise de Discurso pecheutiana, principalmente em produções de Eni Orlandi. Partimos da relação entre forma e conteúdo, considerando alguns princípios e noções, tais como relações de força, mecanismos de antecipação e formações discursivas, para compreendermos a produção de sentidos a partir da interação imagem-texto. Com base nos pressupostos enunciados, apontamos que essas imagens possuem uma dependência do texto para que possam se filiar a um discurso biotecnológico, o que pode ir de encontro à produção de sentidos esperados do ponto de vista do ensino. Apontamos ainda que é a partir de um jogo entre tipologias discursivas (discurso pedagógico, científico e cotidiano) que o texto do livro didático é construído.
Fatores associados ao ganho de peso na gestação e seus desfechos
Authors: Stevanato Kely Paviani , Soares Bárbara Madeira Buscarato , Agnolo Cátia Millene Dell , Santos Lander dos , Pelloso Fernando Castilho , Pereira Marcela Andrade , Carvalho Maria Dalva de Barros , Pelloso Sandra Marisa
Published: November 2020

A obesidade tem aumentado drasticamente nos últimos anos, tornando-se um grave problema de saúde pública. Este estudo objetivou analisar o ganho de peso durante a gestação, os fatores associados e seus desfechos. Estudo descritivo, transversal, realizado com mulheres em pós-parto mediato, em uma maternidade de referência do município de Maringá-PR, no período de 1 a 30 de março de 2018. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio dos registros no cartão da gestante, prontuários da mulher e do recém-nascido e por um questionário estruturado.  As variáveis associadas ao ganho de peso durante a gestação foram número de gestações (p=0,003) e paridade (p=0,041). Mulheres com obesidade prévia à gestação obtiveram maior prevalência de ganho de peso excessivo durante a gestação.   Com base nos resultados do presente estudo, conclui-se que o ganho de peso excessivo durante a gestação foi maior entre mulheres primíparas e primigestas. Sugere-se novos estudos sobre a temática para que forneça subsídios para ao planejamento de ações voltadas ao controle do ganho de peso durante a gestação.
Representações sociais de mulheres frente à escolha da via de parto
Authors: Vieira Maraysa Jéssyca de Oliveira , Santos Amuzza Aylla Pereira dos , Sanches Maria Elisângela Torres de Lima , Silva Jovânia Marques de Oliveira e , Oliveira Karlayne Reynaux Vieira de
Published: November 2020

Objetivo: Conhecer as representações sociais de mulheres em relação à escolha da via de parto. Metodologia: Estudo descritivo, exploratório, de abordagem qualitativa, embasado no referencial teórico das representações sociais. A pesquisa foi realizada em uma maternidade de risco habitual, através de entrevista com 20 puérperas. Os dados coletados foram transcritos na íntegra e organizados manualmente. Para discussão dos resultados, utilizou-se a Teoria das Representações Sociais segundo Moscovici. Resultados: Emergiram, após a análise de conteúdo segundo Bardin, três categorias temáticas: informação para a escolha da via de parto, idealização do parto, e autonomia da mulher na escolha da via de parto. Conclusão: percebeu-se que a percepção e efetivação da autonomia feminina no cenário obstétrico ainda não representam uma realidade predominante nos serviços de saúde pública quando se trata de escolha da via de parto. No entanto, é o respeito à autonomia da mulher na gestação, parto e nascimento que a faz sentir-se socialmente representada como protagonista nesse processo.
O papel da mulher na construção de um serviço de assistência técnica e extensão rural participativo
Authors: Souza Camila Sobreira de , Oliveira Marcelo Leles Romarco de , Silva Nathália Thaís Cosmo da
Published: November 2020

A reformulação nos serviços de assistência técnica e extensão rural tem sido pauta de discussões no meio político e acadêmico nas últimas décadas. O principal enfoque desta mudança está no abandono do modelo difusionista-inovador em prol de uma ATER que promova a construção do conhecimento de maneira participativa. Nessa perspectiva, o presente artigo tem como objetivo apresentar a mulher rural como agente fundamental deste processo, ancorados em sua capacidade de mobilização dentro da comunidade e na valorização de seus saberes enquanto alguém que exerce uma jornada tripla de trabalho para a manutenção familiar. Esta pesquisa foi baseada em revisões bibliográficas e, através dessa, pôde-se concluir que a aproximação entre o extensionista e a mulher rural, contribuirá não somente para este novo modelo de extensão como também para a autonomia e emancipação da mulher na zona rural brasileira.
Cirurgia em peixes
Authors: Rocha Jaqueline Nunes Nieri Moreira da , Bastos Antonia Cleia , Meneguelli Mayra , Berndt Felipe Mateus , Mendonça Talita Oliveira , Zanini Dayane da Silva , Muniz Igor Mansur
Published: November 2020

A aquicultura e o mercado de peixes ornamentais vêm conquistando um papel de destaque no cenário do agronegócio no Brasil e no mundo, fazendo com que cresça uma busca por aprimoramento profissional nesta área, por parte de médicos veterinários. Com isso, este trabalho buscou, através de uma investigação por meio de revisão de literatura, explorar o tema de cirurgia em peixes, com o objetivo de promover um levantamento dos principais procedimentos cirúrgicos executados nestes animais. Justifica-se a importância deste estudo pela atual necessidade da realização de procedimentos cirúrgicos em certos peixes, devido ao seu alto valor econômico e sentimental, além da raridade de algumas espécies ornamentais e exóticas. Apesar da pouca disponibilidade de material para pesquisa, foi possível com este estudo reunir informações importantes acerca dos procedimentos de cirurgias em peixes, ficando constatado ser esta uma área da medicina veterinária que ainda necessita de expansão, através de pesquisas, melhoria de técnicas e publicações, pois ainda há muitas lacunas a serem preenchidas.
Indicadores de matrículas dos alunos público-alvo da educação especial e a oferta de salas de recursos multifuncionais na rede estadual de ensino do Amazonas
Authors: Ferreira Dorimar Gomes , Farias dos Santos Francianne , Lima Merianne da Silva , Alcântara Marcos Lázaro Pereira de , Santos João Otacílio Libardoni dos
Published: November 2020

Este artigo analisa a evolução do processo de inclusão escolar dos alunos público-alvo da Educação Especial em relação a matrícula e oferta de salas de recursos multifuncionais na rede estadual do Amazonas, na tentativa de acompanhar o movimento das políticas e seu entrelaçamento com as práticas nas escolas. Utilizou-se de dados secundários, oriundos dos Censos Educacionais e do Plano Estadual de Educação do Amazonas, foram incluídas, no estudo, as matrículas entre 2008 e 2019 e a oferta de salas de recursos multifuncionais nos anos de 2009 a 2019 na rede estadual do Amazonas - Brasil. Em relação à política de inclusão que vem sendo implementada na rede estadual de ensino do Amazonas, evidencia-se que o número de alunos público-alvo da Educação Especial matriculados nos anos tem se ampliado significativamente; no entanto, ao analisarmos o quantitativo de salas de recursos multifuncionais, observamos um crescimento insuficiente para atender a demanda.
Teoria da complexidade e pesquisa-ação: um referencial epistemológico de pesquisa
Authors: Arruda Marina Patrício de , Nunes Fernanda Costa , Silva Bruna Fernanda
Published: November 2020

Esse artigo tem por objetivo refletir sobre a construção do conhecimento científico na perspectiva da complexidade a partir da pesquisa-ação. A mudança de paradigma na prática científica inclui incertezas e riscos, a Ciência feita, “pronta para durar” é diferente da “Ciência em ação”, aquela que se define no processo de pesquisa e de acordo com o contexto social. Trata-se de um ensaio teórico, revisões de livros, artigos de periódicos disponíveis na internet, bem como, reflexões advindas da experiência de campo das autoras. Por fim destacamos a pertinência de um referencial epistemológico capaz de articular teoria e prática, de religar pesquisa e ação para melhor compreensão de um fenômeno a fim de explica-lo, refleti-lo e nele intervir em meio à dinâmica de uma epistemologia de pesquisa. Esta reflexão permitiu-nos pensar a pesquisa-ação como um caminho epistemológico de pesquisa onde os principais aspectos se diferenciam a pesquisa clássica e valorizam a construção do conhecimento, a partir de um enfoque participativo e coletivo.
Solar System Wave Function
Authors: Soltani Abolfazl
Published: November 2020

Pluto, Ceres and all planets of Solar system except Neptune, with a high approximation, follow a rule called Titius-Bode rule or Bode rule, which can by no means be considered as a stochastic event. This rule shows that the distance of planets from the sun in the solar system is regulated. Here, I prove that the existence of a standing and cosine wave packet, with the wavelength λ = 0.6 AU (AU represents the distance of Earth from the Sun) and the phase constant ∅=π/6, in the solar system is the reason for Bode rule. And moreover I prove that this huge wave packet belongs to the sun. Bode rule does not predict the distance of Neptune from the Sun but my wave theory can give us the distance of Neptune. It seems that, based on this article, quantum mechanics will enter a new stage.
Is standard urine bag or urofix? Which is more usefully in surgical nursing care?
Authors: YILDIZ Tülin , YAZICI Cenk Murat , TÜRKER Polat , ONLER Ebru , MALAK Arzu , EREN CİTAK Elif
Published: November 2020

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the accuracy of urine output measurement performed by standard urine bags and urofix.Methods: This is a prospective study conducted at a 22-bed urology unit. Urine volume was measured either by a standard urine bag or urofix, verified by scaled container measurements in patients dressed with urinary catheter and expected to stay with it for 24 hours or more. In total, 1048 measurements were obtained for 131 patients.Results: The difference between median, maximum and minimum values of urine volumes from the scaled container and nurse’s forecast was evaluated for each of 4 measurements. When the urine volume was measured with the standard urine bag, the average volume was 550 cc in the first measurement while it was 300 cc with urofix. Mean values for the second, third and fourth measurements with standard urine bag and urofix were as follows respectively; 590 cc and 335 cc, 500 cc and 300 cc, 600 cc and 300 cc. The difference was statistically significant in all measurements (p<0.001).Conclusion: In this study, urofix was the most reliable method for measuring urine output and fluid management. Furthermore, if the patient has a standard urine bag, it is recommended to confirm the urine output with a scaled container.
Zebrafish Models of Craniofacial Malformations: Interactions of Environmental Factors
Authors: Raterman S. T. , Metz J. R. , Wagener Frank A. D. T. G. , Von den Hoff Johannes W.
Published: November 2020

The zebrafish is an appealing model organism for investigating the genetic (G) and environmental (E) factors, as well as their interactions (GxE), which contribute to craniofacial malformations. Here, we review zebrafish studies on environmental factors involved in the etiology of craniofacial malformations in humans including maternal smoking, alcohol consumption, nutrition and drug use. As an example, we focus on the (cleft) palate, for which the zebrafish ethmoid plate is a good model. This review highlights the importance of investigating ExE interactions and discusses the variable effects of exposure to environmental factors on craniofacial development depending on dosage, exposure time and developmental stage. Zebrafish also promise to be a good tool to study novel craniofacial teratogens and toxin mixtures. Lastly, we discuss the handful of studies on gene–alcohol interactions using mutant sensitivity screens and reverse genetic techniques. We expect that studies addressing complex interactions (ExE and GxE) in craniofacial malformations will increase in the coming years. These are likely to uncover currently unknown mechanisms with implications for the prevention of craniofacial malformations. The zebrafish appears to be an excellent complementary model with high translational value to study these complex interactions.
Decarbonization in Complex Energy Systems: A Study on the Feasibility of Carbon Neutrality for Switzerland in 2050
Authors: Li Xiang , Damartzis Theodoros , Stadler Zoe , Moret Stefano , Meier Boris , Friedl Markus , Maréchal François
Published: November 2020

Decarbonization gained prominence with the witnessed rise of temperature over recent years, particularly in the aftermath of the adoption of the Paris agreement for limiting the temperature increase within 2°C until 2050. Biogenic resources are explicitly indicated as carbon-neutral from Life Cycle Assessment perspective by the IPCC, shedding light on the carbon-neutral society by applying Biogenic Energy Carbon Capture for creating negative emissions. This article proposes a novel modeling approach by introducing carbon layers with specification on the principal carbon sources and sinks based upon an optimization algorithm, in order to solve the carbon loop issue in a highly interconnected energy system due to increasing penetration of biomass and carbon capture, use, and storage. This study contributes to quantifying biogenic and nonbiogenic carbon footprints, and optimizing the circular economy associated with a net-zero-emission society, in favor of policy-making for sustainable development in long terms.
A Multi-Network Comparative Analysis of Transcriptome and Translatome Identifies Novel Hub Genes in Cardiac Remodeling
Authors: Boileau Etienne , Doroudgar Shirin , Riechert Eva , Jürgensen Lonny , Ho Thanh Cao , Katus Hugo A. , Völkers Mirko , Dieterich Christoph
Published: November 2020

Our understanding of the transition from physiological to pathological cardiac hypertrophy remains elusive and largely based on reductionist hypotheses. Here, we profiled the translatomes of 15 mouse hearts to provide a molecular blueprint of altered gene networks in early cardiac remodeling. Using co-expression analysis, we showed how sub-networks are orchestrated into functional modules associated with pathological phenotypes. We discovered unappreciated hub genes, many undocumented for their role in cardiac hypertrophy, and genes in the transcriptional network that were rewired in the translational network, and associated with semantically different subsets of enriched functional terms, such as Fam210a, a novel musculoskeletal modulator, or Psmd12, implicated in protein quality control. Using their correlation structure, we found that transcriptome networks are only partially reproducible at the translatome level, providing further evidence of post-transcriptional control at the level of translation. Our results provide novel insights into the complexity of the organization of in vivo cardiac regulatory networks.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Phosphocreatine and Its Metabolite Creatine in Children With Myocarditis
Authors: He Huan , Zhang Meng , Zhao Li-bo , Sun Ning , Zhang Yi , Yuan Yue , Wang Xiao-ling
Published: November 2020

Objective:This study aimed to develop a parent-metabolite joint population pharmacokinetic model to characterize the pharmacokinetic (PK) profile for phosphocreatine (PCr) and its metabolite creatine (Cr) in children with myocarditis and to use this model to study the PK profile of different dosing schemes.

Methods:One hundred pediatric patients with myocarditis were enrolled. Blood samples were collected at baseline and approximately 30, 40 or 50, 75, and 180 min after a single dose of phosphocreatine sodium. Plasma PCr and Cr concentrations were determined using an HPLC-MS/MS method. A nonlinear mixed effect model approach was used to build the population pharmacokinetic model. After validation, the model was used for simulations to evaluate the PK profile of different dosing schemes.

Results:A total of 997 plasma concentrations (498 for PCr and 499 for Cr) were included in the analysis. A four-compartment chain model (central and peripheral compartments for both PCr and Cr) with the first-order elimination adequately characterized thein vivoprocess of PCr and Cr. Allometric scaling based on bodyweight was applied to the PK parameters. The covariate analysis identified that the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was strongly associated with Cr clearance. Bootstrapping and visual predictive checks suggested that a robust and reliable pharmacokinetic model was developed. The simulation results showed that PCr had no accumulationin vivo. With the infusion of PCr, the concentration of Cr increased rapidly.

Conclusion:A joint population pharmacokinetic model for PCr and Cr in pediatric patients with myocarditis was successfully developed for the first time.
Correlation of the Plasma Concentration of Eltrombopag With Efficacy in the Treatment of Refractory Aplastic Anemia: A Single-Centre Study in China
Authors: Zuo Wei , Zhang Bo , Ruan Jing , Chen Miao , Han Bing
Published: November 2020

Background and purpose: Eltrombopag (ELT) can be effective in the treatment of relapse/refractory aplastic anemia (AA) patients. Responses and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) differed greatly among individuals treated at the same dosage of ELT.

Methods: Patients diagnosed with nonsevere aplastic anemia (NSAA) between January 2018 and January 2019 in Peking Union Medical Colleague Hospital who were refractory to immunosuppressive therapy were treated with ELT and followed up for at least 6 months. Plasma concentrations of ELT were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry after at least two months of ELT treatment and treatment at the same dosage for at least 2 weeks. The dose-concentration, concentration-response and concentration-ADR relationships were evaluated.

Results: Among the 72 patients treated with ELT during the study period, 44 patients with complete data were enrolled. Six (13.6%) were males, and 38 were females (86.4%), with a median age of 54 years [interquartile range (IQR): 38.5–63]. At the time the ELT plasma concentration was detected, the median dosage of ELT was 75 (IQR 50–100) mg/d, the median time of total ELT exposure was 3 (IQR 2.0–6.0) months, and 37 (70.5%) patients had responded to ELT. The median concentration of ELT was 10.4 μg/ml (IQR 3.7–24.4 μg/ml). The concentration of ELT was positively correlated with the daily dose of ELT (r = 0.68, p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of inefficacy of ELT at a concentration between 11.2 and 15.2 μg/ml was 0.028-fold (95% CI: 0.001–0.864; p = 0.041) of that at a concentration between 3.2 and 7.2 μg/ml. The cutoff value for the concentration of ELT showing efficacy was 12.50 μg/ml according to the receiver operation characteristic curve. A higher risk of ADR was related to a longer total exposure to ELT (p = 0.012). Although the correlation was not significant, the odds ratio increased with the ELT concentration, suggesting that it was possible that an elevated risk of ADR was correlated with the ELT blood concentration.

Conclusion: ELT is effective for the treatment of NSAA and has acceptable side effects. The plasma concentration of ELT was correlated with the dose and the effects of ELT.
A Review on Research and Evaluation Methods for Investigating Self-Transcendence
Authors: Kitson Alexandra , Chirico Alice , Gaggioli Andrea , Riecke Bernhard E.
Published: November 2020

Self-transcendence has been characterized as a decrease in self-saliency (ego disillusionment) and increased connection, and has been growing in research interest in the past decade. Several measures have been developed and published with some degree of psychometric validity and reliability. However, to date, there has been no review systematically describing, contrasting, and evaluating the different methodological approaches toward measuring self-transcendence including questionnaires, neurological and physiological measures, and qualitative methods. To address this gap, we conducted a review to describe existing methods of measuring self-transcendence, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of these methods, and discuss research avenues to advance assessment of self-transcendence, including recommendations for suitability of methods given research contexts.
Advances in Stimuli-Responsive Soft Robots with Integrated Hybrid Materials
Authors: Son Hyegyo , Yoon ChangKyu
Published: November 2020

Hybrid stimuli-responsive soft robots have been extensively developed by incorporating multi-functional materials, such as carbon-based nanoparticles, nanowires, low-dimensional materials, and liquid crystals. In addition to the general functions of conventional soft robots, hybrid stimuli-responsive soft robots have displayed significantly advanced multi-mechanical, electrical, or/and optical properties accompanied with smart shape transformation in response to external stimuli, such as heat, light, and even biomaterials. This review surveys the current enhanced scientific methods to synthesize the integration of multi-functional materials within stimuli-responsive soft robots. Furthermore, this review focuses on the applications of hybrid stimuli-responsive soft robots in the forms of actuators and sensors that display multi-responsive and highly sensitive properties. Finally, it highlights the current challenges of stimuli-responsive soft robots and suggests perspectives on future directions for achieving intelligent hybrid stimuli-responsive soft robots applicable in real environments.
A Whole-Slurry Fermentation Approach to High-Solid Loading for Bioethanol Production from Corn Stover
Authors: G. del Río Pablo , Gullón Patricia , Rebelo F.R. , Romaní Aloia , Garrote Gil , Gullón Beatriz
Published: November 2020

Corn stover is the most produced byproduct from maize worldwide. Since it is generated as a residue from maize harvesting, it is an inexpensive and interesting crop residue to be used as a feedstock. An ecologically friendly pretreatment such as autohydrolysis was selected for the manufacture of second-generation bioethanol from corn stover via whole-slurry fermentation at high-solid loadings. Temperatures from 200 to 240 °C were set for the autohydrolysis process, and the solid and liquid phases were analyzed. Additionally, the enzymatic susceptibility of the solid phases was assessed to test the suitability of the pretreatment. Afterward, the production of bioethanol from autohydrolyzed corn stover was carried out, mixing the solid with different percentages of the autohydrolysis liquor (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) and water (0% of liquor), from a total whole slurry fermentation (saving energy and water in the liquid–solid separation and subsequent washing of the solid phase) to employing water as only liquid medium. In spite of the challenging scenario of using the liquor fraction as liquid phase in the fermentation, values between 32.2 and 41.9 g ethanol/L and ethanol conversions up to 80% were achieved. This work exhibits the feasibility of corn stover for the production of bioethanol via a whole-slurry fermentation process.
Bacteria Isolated from the Aeration Chamber of Wastewater Treatment Plants Used in the Biocontrol and Promotion of Wheat Growth
Authors: Przemieniecki Sebastian Wojciech , Gorczyca Anna , Matras Ewelina , Krawczyk Krzysztof , Mastalerz Jędrzej , Zakrzewski Arkadiusz
Published: November 2020

Background: Antagonisms against Fusarium spp. and multi-traits to protect and improve fertilization of wheat by bacterial strains from activated sludge were assessed. Methods: Isolated strains obtained were identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and the MALDI-TOF method, and their enzymatic profile was investigated. Treated plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) wheat kernels were grown in pots with soil contaminated with Fusarium conidia. Activated sludge is a collection of microorganisms exposed to strong environmental pressure (chemicals) and antagonistic properties. Results: The isolated bacterial strains were similar to: Ps-1 (Serratia liquefaciens), Ps-15 (Serratia sp.) and Ps-9 (Pseudomonas helleri). The dual culture assay showed the highest antagonism of Ps-9 vs. Fusarium spp. The tested bacteria showed activity in the production of chitinase, a variety of proteases, enzymes that degrade various sugars, and esterase, which creates a complex that allows for a variety of strategies to control phytopathogens. The Ps-9 strain was able to solubilize phosphate. The Ps-9 and Ps-15 strains showed good ammonification ability. A marked improvement was observed in test variants in pots inoculated with Fusarium spores after the use of Ps-9. The Ps-9 strain reduced the disease index to traces of symptoms of both species of Fusarium and increased the grain weight. Conclusions: The Ps-9 strain was proven to have high potential for application in the biocontrol and promotion of wheat growth.
Influence of Parental Dura and Pisifera Genetic Origins on Oil Palm Fruit Set Ratio and Yield Components in Their D × P Progenies
Authors: Swaray Senesie , Din Amiruddin Mohd , Rafii Mohd Y. , Jamian Syari , Ismail Mohd Firdaus , Jalloh Momodu , Marjuni Marhalil , Mustakim Mohamad Mohd , Yusuff Oladosu
Published: November 2020

This research was conducted to study the performance of biparental dura × pisifera (D × P) progenies and their parental genetic origins on fruit set and yield components. Twenty-four D × P progenies developed from 10 genetic origins were used for this study. Analysis of variance showed that there was genetic variability based on the evaluation of individual progenies. Deli Ulu Remis × Nigeria of progeny ECPHP500 recorded the highest bunch number (22.91), and fresh fruit bunch (184.62 kg palm−1 year−1) and Deli Banting dura × AVROS pisifera (ECPHP550) had the highest average bunch weight (10.36 kg bunch−1 year−1). Progenies PK4674 (61.12%) and PK4465 (60.93%) had the highest fruit set, and the highest oil yield of 52.66 kg bunch−1 was noticed by progeny PK4674. Estimation of variance components, coefficients of variation, heritability, and genetic gain were calculated to establish the genetic variability. To validate the genetic disparity among the progenies, an unweighted pair-group procedure with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) and principal component was employed based on their quantitative traits. Through the UPGMA and principal component, the 24 progenies were clustered into 7 clusters, whereas cluster V had the highest fruit set (60.62%) and cluster IV had the highest oil yield (43.71 kg palm−1 year−1). For oil palm tissue culture and breeding programs, progeny PK4674 will be more useful for developing planting materials of high oil yielding with stable performance. However, we recommend that future studies incorporate molecular studies with conventional breeding.
Variability for Glutenins, Gluten Quality, Iron, Zinc and Phytic Acid in a Set of One Hundred and Fifty-Eight Common Wheat Landraces from Iran
Authors: Maryami Zahra , Huertas-García Ana Belén , Azimi Mohammad Reza , Hernández-Espinosa Nayelli , Payne Thomas , Cervantes Fausto , Govindan Velu , Ibba Maria Itria , Guzman Carlos
Published: November 2020

Bread wheat can be used to make different products thanks to the presence of gluten, a protein network that confers unique visco-elastic properties to wheat doughs. Gluten is composed by gliadins and glutenins. The glutenins can be further divided into high and low-molecular-weight glutenins (HMWGs and LMWGs, respectively) and are encoded by Glu-1 and Glu-3 loci. The variability of these genes is associated with differences in quality. Because of this, the identification of novel glutenin alleles is still an important target. In this study, 57 haplotypes or glutenin combinations were registered among a set of 158 Iranian landraces and five novel HMWGs alleles were identified. The landraces were also characterized for several quality traits, including gluten quality, which allowed to associate the different glutenin alleles with low or high quality. Other quality traits examined were iron, zinc, and phytate contents, which are intimately related with the nutritional quality. Important variation for these components was found as well as for the phytate:iron/zinc molar ratios (related to the potential bioavailability of these important micronutrients). The landraces identified in the present study (some of them combining high gluten quality with low phytate:zinc values) could be a useful resource for breeders who aim to improve the wheat end-use quality and especially the content of zinc and its relative bioavailability.
Developing a p-NDVI Map for Highland Kimchi Cabbage Using Spectral Information from UAVs and a Field Spectral Radiometer
Authors: Lee Dong-Ho , Shin Hyoung-Sub , Park Jong-Hwa
Published: November 2020

Kimchi cabbage grows in South Korea and is an essential ingredient for making kimchi with the kimjang method. The technique of accurately managing and monitoring crops such as kimchi cabbage plays an important role in stabilizing consumer prices. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are expected to be used more widely in global and local agriculture. The agricultural sites at which kimchi cabbages are cultivated are affected by various climatic, terrain, and soil conditions, requiring technologies that can accurately and quickly acquire such information. UAVs and sensors are able to provide some of these data. In this study, we set up a cultivation environment for kimchi cabbage and investigated the correlation between a UAV-attached multispectral sensor and a field-portable spectroradiometer. Reflectance measurement using a spectroradiometer was performed on 99 kimchi cabbages in a Mt. Maebong testbed. We aimed to find a method for obtaining accurate vegetation information by combining the high spatial and temporal resolution information of the UAV observation with the spectral resolution of the spectroradiometer. Spectral analysis was used to identify the difference between healthy and poorly growing cabbage and to find the wavelength that most affected the growth. The hyperspectrum of the spectroradiometer reflected the accurate vegetation characteristics and contributed greatly to the identification of vegetation indices. A method for correcting the errors that occurred in the ground and UAV monitoring and the difference arising from the application of the broadband wavelength of the UAV and the single wavelength of the spectroradiometer through correlation analysis is presented. The calibration equation method was applied to UAV spatial information and was used to create a precise normalized distribution vegetation index (p-NDVI) map. The p-NDVI map was organized into four categories for the selection of cabbages with healthy (good) growth. Our results show that (1) the merged spectral analysis method was found to be more accurate and distinct than conventional methods, and (2) methods for estimating cabbage growth status showed a higher significant correlation than the UAV-based NDVI. At the maturity stage, high accuracy (R2 = 0.7816, RMSE = 0.06) was achieved for NDVI. Although this map is the result of the limited vegetation monitoring of UAV images taken during the maturity stage, it could be of great help for managing the quality and production of cabbage. However, the efficient management of highland kimchi cabbage requires continuous research under various conditions to enable periodic and systematic monitoring using UAVs and sensors.
Resistance to Anthracnose (Colletotrichum lentis, Race 0) in Lens spp. Germplasm
Authors: Barilli Eleonora , Moral Juan , Aznar-Fernández Thaïs , Rubiales Diego
Published: November 2020

Anthracnose, caused by the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum lentis, is a severe disease of lentil (Lens culinaris) causing premature defoliation, necrotic stem lesions that lead to plant wilting and death in susceptible varieties. Two races of C. lentis (0 and 1) have been described so far. Race 0 is the most virulent one and limited genetic resistance is available to date. To address this scarcity of resistance, we screened a germplasm collection covering different Lens spp. originating from different countries for C. lentis race 0 resistance. Leaf and stem damage and plant mortality were assessed on seedlings inoculated under controlled conditions. A significant variability was observed among accession. Most of the collection studied was highly susceptible, but some levels of resistance were identified in about 15% of the accessions. The highest levels of resistance were identified in L. ervoides accessions PI572330, PI572334 and PI572338. Moderate resistance was also identified in 10 L. culinaris ssp. culinaris accessions but not in the remaining species studied. Selected accessions showed potential to integrate several breeding programs.
Antifungal Drug Repurposing
Authors: Kim Jong H. , Cheng Luisa W. , Chan Kathleen L. , Tam Christina C. , Mahoney Noreen , Friedman Mendel , Shilman Mikhail Martchenko , Land Kirkwood M.
Published: November 2020

Control of fungal pathogens is increasingly problematic due to the limited number of effective drugs available for antifungal therapy. Conventional antifungal drugs could also trigger human cytotoxicity associated with the kidneys and liver, including the generation of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, increased incidences of fungal resistance to the classes of azoles, such as fluconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, or posaconazole, or echinocandins, including caspofungin, anidulafungin, or micafungin, have been documented. Of note, certain azole fungicides such as propiconazole or tebuconazole that are applied to agricultural fields have the same mechanism of antifungal action as clinical azole drugs. Such long-term application of azole fungicides to crop fields provides environmental selection pressure for the emergence of pan-azole-resistant fungal strains such as Aspergillus fumigatus having TR34/L98H mutations, specifically, a 34 bp insertion into the cytochrome P450 51A (CYP51A) gene promoter region and a leucine-to-histidine substitution at codon 98 of CYP51A. Altogether, the emerging resistance of pathogens to currently available antifungal drugs and insufficiency in the discovery of new therapeutics engender the urgent need for the development of new antifungals and/or alternative therapies for effective control of fungal pathogens. We discuss the current needs for the discovery of new clinical antifungal drugs and the recent drug repurposing endeavors as alternative methods for fungal pathogen control.
Marine Bioactive Compounds against Aspergillus fumigatus: Challenges and Future Prospects
Authors: Ahamefule Chukwuemeka Samson , Ezeuduji Blessing C. , Ogbonna James C. , Moneke Anene N. , Ike Anthony C. , Wang Bin , Jin Cheng , Fang Wenxia
Published: November 2020

With the mortality rate of invasive aspergillosis caused by Aspergillus fumigatus reaching almost 100% among some groups of patients, and with the rapidly increasing resistance of A. fumigatus to available antifungal drugs, new antifungal agents have never been more desirable than now. Numerous bioactive compounds were isolated and characterized from marine resources. However, only a few exhibited a potent activity against A. fumigatus when compared to the multitude that did against some other pathogens. Here, we review the marine bioactive compounds that display a bioactivity against A. fumigatus. The challenges hampering the discovery of antifungal agents from this rich habitat are also critically analyzed. Further, we propose strategies that could speed up an efficient discovery and broaden the dimensions of screening in order to obtain promising in vivo antifungal agents with new modes of action.
Microbial Production of Retinyl Palmitate and Its Application as a Cosmeceutical
Authors: Choi Bo Hyun , Hwang Hee Jin , Lee Ji Eun , Oh Soon Hwan , Hwang Jae Sung , Lee Bun Yeoul , Lee Pyung Cheon
Published: November 2020

Chemically synthesized retinyl palmitate has been widely used in the cosmetic and biotechnology industry. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the microbial production of retinyl palmitate and the benefits of microbial retinyl palmitate in skin physiology. A heterologous retinyl palmitate biosynthesis pathway was reconstructed in metabolically engineered Escherichia coli using synthetic expression modules from Pantoea agglomerans, Salinibacter ruber, and Homo sapiens. High production of retinyl palmitate (69.96 ± 2.64 mg/L) was obtained using a fed-batch fermentation process. Moreover, application of purified microbial retinyl palmitate to human foreskin HS68 fibroblasts led to increased cellular retinoic acid-binding protein 2 (CRABP2) mRNA level [1.7-fold (p = 0.001) at 100 μg/mL], acceleration of cell proliferation, and enhancement of procollagen synthesis [111% (p < 0.05) at 100 μg/mL], strongly indicating an anti-ageing-related effect of this substance. These results would pave the way for large-scale production of retinyl palmitate in microbial systems and represent the first evidence for the application of microbial retinyl palmitate as a cosmeceutical.
The Advanced Lipoxidation End-Product Malondialdehyde-Lysine in Aging and Longevity
Authors: Jové Mariona , Mota-Martorell Natàlia , Pradas Irene , Martín-Gari Meritxell , Ayala Victoria , Pamplona Reinald
Published: November 2020

The nonenzymatic adduction of malondialdehyde (MDA) to the protein amino groups leads to the formation of malondialdehyde-lysine (MDALys). The degree of unsaturation of biological membranes and the intracellular oxidative conditions are the main factors that modulate MDALys formation. The low concentration of this modification in the different cellular components, found in a wide diversity of tissues and animal species, is indicative of the presence of a complex network of cellular protection mechanisms that avoid its cytotoxic effects. In this review, we will focus on the chemistry of this lipoxidation-derived protein modification, the specificity of MDALys formation in proteins, the methodology used for its detection and quantification, the MDA-lipoxidized proteome, the metabolism of MDA-modified proteins, and the detrimental effects of this protein modification. We also propose that MDALys is an indicator of the rate of aging based on findings which demonstrate that (i) MDALys accumulates in tissues with age, (ii) the lower the concentration of MDALys the greater the longevity of the animal species, and (iii) its concentration is attenuated by anti-aging nutritional and pharmacological interventions.
Acute Kidney Injury is Associated with Lowered Plasma-Free Thiol Levels
Authors: Boekhoud Lisanne , Koeze Jacqueline , van der Slikke Elisabeth C. , Bourgonje Arno R. , Moser Jill , Zijlstra Jan G. , Muller Kobold Anneke C. , Bulthuis Marian L. C. , van Meurs Matijs , van Goor Harry , Bouma Hjalmar R.
Published: November 2020

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with the abrupt loss of kidney function. Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathophysiology of AKI. Free thiols (R-SH) are crucial components of the extracellular antioxidant machinery and reliably reflect systemic oxidative stress. Lower levels of thiols represent higher levels of oxidative stress. In this preliminary study, we hypothesized that plasma-free thiols are associated with AKI upon admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). In this study, 301 critically ill patients were included. Plasma samples were taken upon admission, and albumin-adjusted plasma-free thiols were determined. Albumin-adjusted plasma-free thiols were lower in patients with AKI (n = 43, median (interquartile range) 7.28 µmol/g (3.52, 8.95)) compared to patients without AKI (8.50 μmol/g (5.82, 11.28); p < 0.05) upon admission to the ICU. Higher age (B = −0.72), higher levels of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (B = −0.002), creatinine (B = −0.01) and lower serum albumin (B = 0.47) were associated with lower free thiol levels. Further, albumin-adjusted free thiol levels were significantly reduced in patients with sepsis (8.30 (5.52–10.64) µmol/g) compared to patients without sepsis (6.95 (3.72–8.92) µmol/g; p < 0.05). Together, albumin-adjusted plasma-free thiols were significantly reduced in patients with AKI and patients with sepsis compared with patients without AKI and sepsis.
Tunable non-Hermiticity in Coupled Photonic Crystal Cavities with Asymmetric Optical Gain
Authors: Kim Kyoung-Ho , Sujak Muhammad , Kang Evan S. H. , No You-Shin
Published: November 2020

We report a rationally designed coupled photonic crystal (PhC) cavity system that comprises two identical linear defect nanocavities, and we numerically investigate the controllable non-Hermitian optical properties of the eigenmodes of the nanocavities. Three different coupling schemes, namely, the tuning of the sizes of shared airholes, vertical shifting of one of the nanocavities, and lateral shifting of one of the nanocavities, are proposed. We examined the ability of these schemes to control the coupling strength between component cavities, which is a key factor that determines the non-Hermiticity of the system. Moreover, we introduce controlled levels of spatially asymmetric optical gain to the coupled PhC cavity by employing the vertical shifting scheme and independently tuning the gain and loss of individual nanocavities. Consequently, we successfully achieve the correspondingly tuned non-Hermitian behaviors of complex eigenfrequencies, such as the controlled emergence of phase transitions at exceptional points and the asymmetric development of amplified and decayed eigenmodes.
Improvement of Electric Propulsion System Model for Performance Analysis of Large-Size Multicopter UAVs
Authors: Jeong Jinseok , Shi Hayoung , Lee Kichang , Kang Beomsoo
Published: November 2020

In this study, an improved model of the electric propulsion system is proposed in order to analyze the performance of large-size multicopter unmanned aerial vehicles. The main improvement of the proposed model is to reflect the armature reaction of the motor, which effectively explains the significant performance degradation in high-power operation. The armature reaction is a phenomenon, in which the main field flux is interfered by a magnetic flux and, as the size and output of the motor increase, the effect of armature reaction also rapidly increases. Therefore, the armature reaction must be considered for the optimal design and performance analysis of large-size multicopter platforms. The model proposed in this study includes several mathematical models for propellers, motors, electric speed controllers, and batteries, which are key components of the electric propulsion system, and they can calculate key performance data, such as thrust and torque and power consumption, according to given product specifications and input conditions. However, estimates of the armature reaction constants and heat profiles of motors need to be obtained in advance through experimental methods, since there is not yet enough data available in order to derive an estimation model. In conclusion, a comparison with the static thrust test of some commercial products confirmed that the proposed model could predict performance in the high-power operation of electric propulsion systems for large multicopter platforms, although some errors were noted.
Multi-Temporal Land Cover Change Mapping Using Google Earth Engine and Ensemble Learning Methods
Authors: Wagle Nimisha , Acharya Tri Dev , Kolluru Venkatesh , Huang He , Lee Dong Ha
Published: November 2020

The study deals with the application of Google Earth Engine (GEE), Landsat data and ensemble-learning methods (ELMs) to map land cover (LC) change over a decade in the Kaski district of Nepal. As Nepal has experienced extensive changes due to natural and anthropogenic activities, monitoring such changes are crucial for understanding relationships and interactions between social and natural phenomena and to promote better decision-making. The main novelty lies in applying the XGBoost classifier for LC mapping over Nepal and monitoring the decadal changes of LC using ELMs. To map the LC change, a yearly cloud-free composite Landsat image was selected for the year 2010 and 2020. Combining the annual normalized difference vegetation index, normalized difference built-up index and modified normalized difference water index, with elevation and slope data from shuttle radar topography mission, supervised classification was performed using a random forest and extreme gradient boosting ELMs. Post classification change detection, validation and accuracy assessment were executed after the preparation of the LC maps. Three evaluation indices, namely overall accuracy (OA), Kappa coefficient, and F1 score from confusion matrix reports, were calculated for all the points used for validation purposes. We have obtained an OA of 0.8792 and 0.875 for RF and 0.8926 and 0.8603 for XGBoost at the 95% confidence level for 2010 and 2020 LC maps, which are better for mountainous terrain. The applied methodology could be significant in utilizing the big earth observation data and overcoming the traditional computational challenges using GEE. In addition, the quantification of changes over time would be helpful for decision-makers to understand current environmental dynamics in the study area.