bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Stability of Functional Equations with a New Direct Method
Authors: Zhang Dongwen , Liu Qi , Rassias John Michael , Li Yongjin
Published: April 2022

We investigate the Hyers–Ulam stability of an equation involving a single variable of the form ∥f(x)−αf(kn(x))−βf(kn+1(x))∥⩽u(x) where f is an unknown operator from a nonempty set X into a Banach space Y, and it preserves the addition operation, besides other certain conditions. The theory is employed and stability theorems are proven for various functional equations involving several variables. By comparing this method with the available techniques, it was noticed that this method does not require any restriction on the parity, on the domain, and on the range of the function. Our findings suggest that it is very much easy and more appropriate to apply the proposed method while investigating the stability of functional equations, in particular for several variables.
Vaginal Laser Therapy for Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: New Solutions for a Well-Known Issue—A Concise Review
Authors: Ruffolo Alessandro , Braga Andrea , Torella Marco , Frigerio Matteo , Cimmino Chiara , De Rosa Andrea , Sorice Paola , Castronovo Fabiana , Salvatore Stefano , Serati Maurizio
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: Insufficient connective urethra and bladder support related to childbirth and menopausal estrogen decrease leads to stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The aim of this review is to narratively report the efficacy and safety of new mini-invasive solutions for SUI treatment as laser energy devices, in particular, the microablative fractional carbon dioxide laser and the non-ablative Erbium-YAG laser. Materials and Methods: For this narrative review, a search of literature from PubMed and EMBASE was performed to evaluate the relevant studies and was limited to English language articles, published from January 2015 to February 2022. Results: A significant subjective improvement, assessed by the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-UI-SF) was reported at the 6-month follow up, with a cure rate ranged from 21% to 38%. A reduction of effect was evidenced between 6 and 24–36 months. Additionally, the 1-h pad weight test evidence a significant objective improvement at the 2–6-month follow up. Conclusions: SUI after vaginal laser therapy resulted statistically improved in almost all studies at short-term follow up, resulting a safe and feasible option in mild SUI. However, cure rates were low, longer-term data actually lacks and the high heterogeneity of methods limits the general recommendations. Larger RCTs evaluating long-term effects are required.
JUUL™ing and Heating Lead to a Worsening of Arterial Stiffness
Authors: Benthien Julia , Meusel Moritz , Cayo Talavera Silja , Eitel Ingo , Drömann Daniel , Franzen Klaas F.
Published: April 2022

Background: The widespread use of the JUUL™ device ignited a discussion about the effects these products have on harm reduction. Therefore, we conducted a study directly comparing the JUUL™ device with a cigarette, a heated tobacco product, and a nicotine-free e-cigarette to examine the acute effects on arterial stiffness. Methods: This crossover-designed study examines 20 occasional smokers (age 25.2 ± 2.5 years). Study participants used each of the four smoking devices for a duration of 5 min following a protocol. Peripheral blood pressure and parameters of arterial stiffness and endothelial vasodilator function such as the reactive hyperemia index and the augmentation index were measured using the EndoPAT™2000 before and after. Results: In addition to significant peripheral hemodynamic changes after 5 and 10 min (p < 0.05), the reactive hyperemia index showed a significant decrease for all devices 15 min after consumption and remained significantly decreased after 60 min (p < 0.01). The augmentation index adjusted for a heart rate of 75 bpm increased significantly for all devices 15 and 60 min after consumption (p < 0.01). Conclusions: In conclusion, the increases in blood pressure and arterial stiffness are similar after smoking, JUUL™ing, heating, and vaping. These changes may be associated with an increase in cardiovascular risks; however, an evaluation of the long-term effects of JUUL™ing, vaping and heating is needed.
Branched-Chain Amino Acid Deprivation Decreases Lipid Oxidation and Lipogenesis in C2C12 Myotubes
Authors: Karvinen Sira , Fachada Vasco , Sahinaho Ulla-Maria , Pekkala Satu , Lautaoja Juulia H. , Mäntyselkä Sakari , Permi Perttu , Hulmi Juha J. , Silvennoinen Mika , Kainulainen Heikki
Published: April 2022

Impaired lipid metabolism is a common risk factor underlying several metabolic diseases such as metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that include valine, leucine and isoleucine have been proven to share a role in lipid metabolism and hence in maintaining metabolic health. We have previously introduced a hypothesis suggesting that BCAA degradation mechanistically connects to lipid oxidation and storage in skeletal muscle. To test our hypothesis, the present study examined the effects of BCAA deprivation and supplementation on lipid oxidation, lipogenesis and lipid droplet characteristics in murine C2C12 myotubes. In addition, the role of myotube contractions on cell metabolism was studied by utilizing in vitro skeletal-muscle-specific exercise-like electrical pulse stimulation (EPS). Our results showed that the deprivation of BCAAs decreased both lipid oxidation and lipogenesis in C2C12 myotubes. BCAA deprivation further diminished the number of lipid droplets in the EPS-treated myotubes. EPS decreased lipid oxidation especially when combined with high BCAA supplementation. Similar to BCAA deprivation, high BCAA supplementation also decreased lipid oxidation. The present results highlight the role of an adequate level of BCAAs in healthy lipid metabolism.
Biofilm Survival Strategies in Chronic Wounds
Authors: Thaarup Ida Clement , Iversen Anne Kristine Servais , Lichtenberg Mads , Bjarnsholt Thomas , Jakobsen Tim Holm
Published: April 2022

Bacterial biofilms residing in chronic wounds are thought to have numerous survival strategies, making them extremely difficult to eradicate and resulting in long-term infections. However, much of our knowledge regarding biofilm persistence stems from in vitro models and experiments performed in vivo in animal models. While the knowledge obtained from such experiments is highly valuable, its direct translation to the human clinical setting should be undertaken with caution. In this review, we highlight knowledge obtained from human clinical samples in different aspects of biofilm survival strategies. These strategies have been divided into segments of the following attributes: altered transcriptomic profiles, spatial distribution, the production of extracellular polymeric substances, an altered microenvironment, inter-and intra-species interactions, and heterogeneity in the bacterial population. While all these attributes are speculated to contribute to the enhanced persistence of biofilms in chronic wounds, only some of them have been demonstrated to exist in human wounds. Some of the attributes have been observed in other clinical diseases while others have only been observed in vitro. Here, we have strived to clarify the limitations of the current knowledge in regard to this specific topic, without ignoring important in vitro and in vivo observations.
Successful Treatment of Bloodstream Infection due to a KPC-Producing Klebsiella Pneumoniae Resistant to Imipenem/Relebactam in a Hematological Patient
Authors: Gaibani Paolo , Bussini Linda , Amadesi Stefano , Bartoletti Michele , Bovo Federica , Lazzarotto Tiziana , Viale Pierluigi , Ambretti Simone
Published: April 2022

Novel carbapenem-β-lactamase inhibitor combination, imipenem/relebactam (IMI-REL), has been recently approved for treatment of infections with limited or no alternative treatment options. In this study, we described the emergence of the IMI-REL-resistance in a KPC-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPC-Kp) strain collected from a hematological patient with no evidence of prior colonization. Interestingly, IMI-REL-resistance was associated with meropenem/vaborbactam (MER-VAB) cross-resistance but was not associated with cross-resistance to ceftazidime/avibactam (CAZ-AVI). Although treatment with CAZ-AVI and gentamicin completely eradicated the infection due KPC-Kp cross-resistance to IMI-REL and MER-VAB, the patient became colonized subsequently by KPC-Kp strains susceptible to IMI-REL and MER-VAB. Whole-genome sequencing performed by hybrid approach using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms demonstrated that all KPC-Kp strains isolated from hematological patient belonged to the ST512 and were clonally related. Analysis of antimicrobial and porins genes demonstrated that cross-resistance to IMI-REL and MER-VAB was associated with increased blaKPC-3 copy number and truncated OmpK35 and OmpK36 with GD134-135 insertion. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that KPC-Kp cross-resistance to IMI-REL and MER-VAB was clonally related to a KPC-Kp resistant to IMI-REL as previously described, demonstrating the spread of this multidrug resistant clone in the hematological unit. In conclusion, the results presented in this study reported the emergence of cross-resistance to MER-VAB and IMI-REL in a KPC-Kp strain isolated from a hematological patient and highlight the potential development and diffusion of new multidrug resistance traits.
Surfactin Shows Relatively Low Antimicrobial Activity against Bacillus subtilis and Other Bacterial Model Organisms in the Absence of Synergistic Metabolites
Authors: Lilge Lars , Ersig Nadine , Hubel Philipp , Aschern Moritz , Pillai Evelina , Klausmann Peter , Pfannstiel Jens , Henkel Marius , Morabbi Heravi Kambiz , Hausmann Rudolf
Published: April 2022

Surfactin is described as a powerful biosurfactant and is natively produced by Bacillus subtilis in notable quantities. Among other industrially relevant characteristics, antimicrobial properties have been attributed to surfactin-producing Bacillus isolates. To investigate this property, stress approaches were carried out with biotechnologically established strains of Corynebacterium glutamicum, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas putida with the highest possible amounts of surfactin. Contrary to the popular opinion, the highest growth-reducing effects were detectable in B. subtilis and E. coli after surfactin treatment of 100 g/L with 35 and 33%, respectively, while P. putida showed no growth-specific response. In contrast, other antimicrobial biosurfactants, like rhamnolipids and sophorolipids, showed significantly stronger effects on bacterial growth. Since the addition of high amounts of surfactin in defined mineral salt medium reduced the cell growth of B. subtilis by about 40%, the initial stress response at the protein level was analyzed by mass spectrometry, showing induction of stress proteins under control of alternative sigma factors σB and σW as well as the activation of LiaRS two-component system. Overall, although surfactin is associated with antimicrobial properties, relatively low growth-reducing effects could be demonstrated after the surfactin addition, challenging the general claim of the antimicrobial properties of surfactin.
Protective Effect of Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum) Extract against UV- and AGEs-Induced Skin Aging via Alleviating Oxidative Stress and Collagen Degradation
Authors: Lyu Jia-Ling , Liu Yi-Jung , Wen Kuo-Ching , Chiu Chen-Yuan , Lin Yung-Hsiang , Chiang Hsiu-Mei
Published: April 2022

Skin aging is a complex process involving photoaging and glycation stress, which share some fundamental pathways and have common mediators. They can cause skin damage and collagen degradation by inducing oxidative stress and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Chenopodium formosanum (CF), also known as Djulis, is a traditional cereal in Taiwan. This study investigated the protection mechanisms of CF extract against ultraviolet (UV) radiation and advanced glycation end products (AGEs)-induced stress. The results indicated that CF extract had strong antioxidant and free radical scavenging effects. It could reduce UV-induced intracellular ROS generation and initiate the antioxidant defense system by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling pathway in human skin fibroblasts. CF extract modulated mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and transformed growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways to alleviate oxidative stress-induced skin aging. Moreover, the results revealed that CF extract not only promoted collagen synthesis but also improved aging-induced collagen degradation. CF extract attenuated AGEs-induced ROS production and the upregulation of receptor for AGEs (RAGE). The overall results suggest that CF extract provides an effective anti-aging strategy by preventing skin damage from oxidative stress and collagen loss with potent antioxidant, anti-photoaging, and antiglycation activities.
Transcriptomic and Non-Targeted Metabolomic Analyses Reveal the Flavonoid Biosynthesis Pathway in Auricularia cornea
Authors: Meng Li , Zhang Shaoyan , Bai Xiaoran , Li Xiaobo , Wang Qingji , Wang Li , Wang Wei , Li Zhuang
Published: April 2022

Flavonoids, which are abundant in plants, are recognized for their antioxidant and anticancer roles in clinical applications. However, little is known about the molecular basis of flavonoid biosynthesis in fungi. In this study, we found that inclusion of leachate of Korshinsk peashrub (Caragana korshinskii) in the fermentation medium increased the total flavonoid content of the edible fungus Auricularia cornea by 23.6% relative to that grown in a control medium. Combined transcriptomic and non-targeted metabolomic analysis of the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway in A. cornea illustrated that there are important metabolites in the phenylpropanoid, coumarin and isoflavonoid biosynthesis pathways. In addition, we found that certain homologous genes encode phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and chalcone isomerase (CHI) in these biosynthesis pathways. These results, in this study, provide a new line for studying the regulation of flavonoid production in edible fungi.
Comparative Analysis of VOCs from Winter Melon Pomace Fibers before and after Bleaching Treatment with H2O2
Authors: Maletti Laura , D’Eusanio Veronica , Durante Caterina , Marchetti Andrea , Pincelli Luca , Tassi Lorenzo
Published: April 2022

In this study, the trend of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in dietary fiber samples from the winter melon (Cucumis Melo var. Inodorus, Yellow Canary type) were investigated. This foodstuff, obtained as a by-product of agri-food production, has gained increasing attention and is characterized by many bioactive components and a high dietary-fiber content. As regards fiber, it is poorly colored, but it may be whitened by applying a bleaching treatment with H2O2. The result is a fibrous material for specific applications in food manufacturing, for example, as a corrector for some functional and technological properties. This treatment is healthy and safe for consumers and widely applied in industrial food processes. In this study, a method based on headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was applied for the characterization of the aromatic profile of the dried raw materials. Furthermore, VOC variation was investigated as function of the bleaching treatment with H2O2. The bleached samples were also analyzed after a long storage period (24 months), to assess their stability over time. As a result, the VOC fraction of the fresh raw fiber showed nine classes of analytes; these were restricted to seven for the bleached fiber at t0 time, and further reduced to four classes at the age of 24 months. Alcohols were the main group detected in the fresh raw sample (33.8 % of the total chromatogram area), with 2,3-butanediol isomers as the main compounds. These analytes decreased with time. An opposite trend was observed for the acids (9.7% at t0), which increased with time and became the most important class in the 24-month aged and bleached sample (57.3%).
Copper(II)-Doped Carbon Dots as Catalyst for Ozone Degradation of Textile Dyes
Authors: Cardoso Rita M. F. , Cardoso Inês M. F. , da Silva Luís Pinto , Esteves da Silva Joaquim C. G.
Published: April 2022

A catalytic ozonation advanced oxidation process (AOP) with a copper(II)-doped carbon dot as catalyst, Cu-CD (using L-cysteine and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as precursors and passivation agents), was developed for textile wastewater treatment (T = 25 °C and pH = 7). Four dyes were analyzed—Methyl Orange (MO), Orange II sodium salt (O-II), Reactive Black 5 (RB-5) and Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBB-R), as well as a real effluent from the dying and printing industry. The Cu-CD, with marked catalytic ozonation properties, was successfully synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal procedure with a size of 4.0 nm, a charge of −3.7 mV and a fluorescent quantum yield of 31%. The discoloration of the aqueous dye solutions followed an apparent first-order kinetics with the following rate constants (kap in min−1): MO, 0.210; O-II, 0.133; RB-5, 0.177; RBB-R, 0.086. In the presence of Cu-CD, the following apparent first-order rate constants were obtained (kapc in min−1) with the corresponding increase in the rate constant without catalyst (%Inc): MO, 1.184 (464%); O-II, 1.002 (653%); RB-5, 0.709 (301%); RBB-R, 0.230 (167%). The presence of sodium chloride (at a concentration of 50 g/L) resulted in a marked increase of the discoloration rate of the dye solution due to generation of other radicals, such as chlorine and chlorine oxide, resulting from the reaction of ozone and chloride. Taking into consideration that the real textile effluent under research has a high carbonate concentration (>356 mg/L), which inhibits ozone decomposition, the discoloration first-order rate constants without and with Cu-CD (kap = 0.0097 min−1 and kapc = 0.012 min−1 (%Inc = 24%), respectively) were relatively small. Apparently, the Cu-CD, the surface of which is covered by a soft and highly hydrated caramelized PEG coating, accelerates the ozone decomposition and dye adsorption, increasing its degradation.
Eco-Friendly Disposable WS2 Paper Sensor for Sub-ppm NO2 Detection at Room Temperature
Authors: Matatagui Daniel , Cruz Carlos , Carrascoso Felix , Al-Enizi Abdullah M. , Nafady Ayman , Castellanos-Gomez Andres , Horrillo María del Carmen
Published: April 2022

We developed inexpensive and disposable gas sensors with a low environmental footprint. This approach is based on a biodegradable substrate, paper, and features safe and nontoxic electronic materials. We show that abrasion-induced deposited WS2 nanoplatelets on paper can be employed as a successful sensing layer to develop high-sensitivity and selective sensors, which operate even at room temperature. Its performance is investigated, at room temperature, against NO2 exposure, finding that the electrical resistance of the device drops dramatically upon NO2 adsorption, decreasing by ~42% (~31% half a year later) for 0.8 ppm concentration, and establishing a detection limit around~2 ppb (~3 ppb half a year later). The sensor is highly selective towards NO2 gas with respect to the interferents NH3 and CO, whose responses were only 1.8% (obtained for 30 ppm) and 1.5% (obtained for 8 ppm), respectively. Interestingly, an improved response of the developed sensor under humid conditions was observed (tested for 25% relative humidity at 23 °C). The high-performance, in conjunction with its small dimensions, low cost, operation at room temperature, and the possibility of using it as a portable system, makes this sensor a promising candidate for continuous monitoring of NO2 on-site.
Development of a Food Literacy Assessment Tool for Healthy, Joyful, and Sustainable Diet in South Korea
Authors: Yoo Hyelim , Jo Eunbin , Lee Hyeongyeong , Park Sohyun
Published: April 2022

Background: Food literacy (FL) is important as the ability to consider the unique aspects of food in our lives, society, and environment. The main objectives of this study were as follows: (1) to revisit the definition of FL, considering the cultural, relational, and ecological aspects that were often neglected in previous research, and (2) to develop a measurement tool for adults. Methods: Expert workshops, the Delphi survey, the test–retest survey, and one-on-one interviews were conducted. The content validity ratio was calculated from the Delphi survey. The correlation coefficient of each item was measured twice, and the Cronbach’s alpha was calculated. Results: This study proposed a new definition of FL, including future-oriented values, and suggested three main domains with 33 items: (1) 14 questions in nutrition and safety FL (Cronbach’s α = 0.877, average correlation coefficient = 0.70), (2) 8 questions in cultural and relational FL (Cronbach’s α = 0.705, average correlation coefficient = 0.71), and (3) 11 questions in socio-ecological FL (Cronbach’s α = 0.737, average correlation coefficient = 0.61). Conclusions: This newly developed questionnaire should be tested in different populations; however, this questionnaire can be a basis for measuring and improving FL for healthy, joyful, and sustainable diets for adults.
The Role of Intermittent Energy Restriction Diet on Metabolic Profile and Weight Loss among Obese Adults
Authors: Stanek Agata , Brożyna-Tkaczyk Klaudia , Zolghadri Samaneh , Cholewka Armand , Myśliński Wojciech
Published: April 2022

Obesity is a disease defined by an elevated body mass index (BMI), which is the result of excessive or abnormal accumulation of fat. Dietary intervention is fundamental and essential as the first-line treatment for obese patients, and the main rule of every dietary modification is calorie restriction and consequent weight loss. Intermittent energy restriction (IER) is a special type of diet consisting of intermittent pauses in eating. There are many variations of IER diets such as alternate-day fasting (ADF) and time-restricted feeding (TRF). In the literature, the IER diet is known as an effective method for bodyweight reduction. Furthermore, IER diets have a beneficial effect on systolic or diastolic pressure, lipid profile, and glucose homeostasis. In addition, IER diets are presented as being as efficient as a continuous energy restriction diet (CER) in losing weight and improving metabolic parameters. Thus, the IER diet could present an alternative option for those who cannot accept a constant food regimen.
Concentrations of PGE2 and TXB2 in the Eyes of Mice with Disseminated Acanthamoebiasis
Authors: Kot Karolina , Kołodziej Daria , Kupnicka Patrycja , Kosik-Bogacka Danuta Izabela , Łanocha-Arendarczyk Natalia
Published: April 2022

Previous studies have shown that Acanthamoeba spp. may invade the eyes by migrating along the optic nerve to the eyes from the brain. This study aimed to confirm the presence of inflammation in the eyes of mice with disseminated acanthamoebiasis by examining prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and thromboxane B2 (TXB2) concentrations in the eyes of immunocompetent and immunocompromised mice intranasally inoculated with Acanthamoeba spp. The PGE2 concentration was statistically significantly lower in the immunocompromised amoebae-infected mice on 8 dpi compared with the noninfected group of animals, and it was higher in the eyes of immunosuppressed amoebae-infected mice on 16 dpi than in the control group of animals. There was a statistically significant lower TXB2 concentration in the eyes of immunocompetent infected mice compared with the noninfected group on 8 dpi. However, on 24 dpi, we noted statistically significant higher TXB2 levels in the immunocompetent infected mice than in the control group. In immunocompromised mice, there was a lower TXB2 level on 8 dpi than in control mice. This study confirmed the existence of an inflammatory process in the eyes of immunocompetent and immunocompromised mice infected with Acanthamoeba spp. without damaged corneas.
Development of a Real-Time Recombinase Polymerase Amplification Assay for the Rapid Detection of African Swine Fever Virus Genotype I and II
Authors: Ilya Titov , Monoldorova Sezim , Kang Shin-Seok , Yun Seungri , Byeon Hyeon-Seop , Mariia Nefedeva , Jeon Bo-Young
Published: April 2022

African swine fever (ASF) is a contagious viral disease in pigs and wild boars which poses a major threat to the pig industry. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is necessary to control ASF. Hence, we developed a rapid diagnostic method using a recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assay targeting the conserved sequences of CP204L (p30) thatcan rapidly detect ASF virus (ASFV) genotype strains I and II. The lower detection limit of the real-time RPA assay was 5 × 101 copies per reaction. The real-time RPA assay effectively detected ASFV isolates and clinical specimens belonging to ASFV genotypes I and II. The sensitivity and specificity of the assay were 96.8% (95% confidence interval (CI): 83.3–99.9) and 100% (95% CI: 88.4–100.0), respectively. The agreement between the real-time RPA assay and a reference commercial real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was 100%. The real-time RPA assay had a detection time of 6.0 min (95% CI: 5.7–6.2), which was significantly shorter than that of qPCR (49 min; 95% CI: 47.4–50.6; p < 0.001). Thus, the developed real-time RPA assay is a rapid and accurate diagnostic tool for detecting ASFV genotypes I and II.
The Development of Positron Emission Tomography Tracers for In Vivo Targeting the Kinase Domain of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor
Authors: Högnäsbacka Antonia , Poot Alex , Vugts Danielle , van Dongen Guus , Windhorst Albert
Published: April 2022

Multiple small molecule PET tracers have been developed for the imaging of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). These tracers target the tyrosine kinase (TK) domain of the receptor and have been used for both quantifying EGFR expression and to differentiate between EGFR mutational statuses. However, the approaches for in vivo evaluation of these tracers are diverse and have resulted in data that are hard to compare. In this review, we analyze the historical development of the in vivo evaluation approaches, starting from the first EGFR TK PET tracer [11C]PD153035 to tracers developed based on TK inhibitors used for the clinical treatment of mutated EGFR expressing non-small cell lung cancer like [11C]erlotinib and [18F]afatinib. The evaluation of each tracer has been compiled to allow for a comparison between studies and ultimately between tracers. The main challenges for each group of tracers are thereafter discussed. Finally, this review addresses the challenges that need to be overcome to be able to efficiently drive EGFR PET imaging forward.
Impact of Grazing on Diversity of Semi-Arid Rangelands in Crete Island in the Context of Climatic Change
Authors: Karatassiou Maria , Parissi Zoi M. , Panajiotidis Sampson , Stergiou Afroditi
Published: April 2022

The rangelands of Crete island (Greece) are typical Mediterranean habitats under high risk of degradation due to long-term grazing and harsh climatic conditions. We explored the effect of abiotic (climatic conditions, altitude) and biotic factors (long-term grazing by small ruminants) on the floristic composition and diversity of selected lowland (Pyrathi, Faistos) and highland (Vroulidia, Nida) rangelands. In each rangeland, the ground cover was measured, and the floristic composition was calculated in terms of five functional groups: grasses, legumes, forbs, phrygana, and shrubs. The aridity index, species turnover, species richness, Shannon entropy, and Gini–Simpson index (with the latter two converted to the effective number of species) were calculated. Our results reveal that highlands are characterized by the highest aridity index (wetter conditions). Lowland rangelands, compared to highland, exhibited a higher percentage contribution of grasses, legumes, and forbs, while species turnover decreased along the altitudinal gradient. The Shannon entropy index was correlated (a) positively with Gini–Simpson and mean annual temperature and (b) negatively with mean annual precipitation, aridity index, and altitude. Moreover, the Gini–Simpson index correlated positively with mean annual temperature and negatively with altitude. Our results could help to understand the effects of grazing on rangeland dynamics and sustainability in semi-arid regions in the context of climatic change.
Smart Glass Film Reduced Ascorbic Acid in Red and Orange Capsicum Fruit Cultivars without Impacting Shelf Life
Authors: He Xin , Chavan Sachin G. , Hamoui Ziad , Maier Chelsea , Ghannoum Oula , Chen Zhong-Hua , Tissue David T. , Cazzonelli Christopher I.
Published: April 2022

Smart Glass Film (SGF) is a glasshouse covering material designed to permit 80% transmission of photosynthetically active light and block heat-generating solar energy. SGF can reduce crop water and nutrient consumption and improve glasshouse energy use efficiency yet can reduce crop yield. The effect of SGF on the postharvest shelf life of fruits remains unknown. Two capsicum varieties, Red (Gina) and Orange (O06614), were cultivated within a glasshouse covered in SGF to assess fruit quality and shelf life during the winter season. SGF reduced cuticle thickness in the Red cultivar (5%) and decreased ascorbic acid in both cultivars (9–14%) without altering the overall morphology of the mature fruits. The ratio of total soluble solids (TSSs) to titratable acidity (TA) was significantly higher in Red (29%) and Orange (89%) cultivars grown under SGF. The Red fruits had a thicker cuticle that reduced water loss and extended shelf life when compared to the Orange fruits, yet neither water loss nor firmness were impacted by SGF. Reducing the storage temperature to 2 °C and increasing relative humidity to 90% extended the shelf life in both cultivars without evidence of chilling injury. In summary, SGF had minimal impact on fruit development and postharvest traits and did not compromise the shelf life of mature fruits. SGF provides a promising technology to block heat-generating solar radiation energy without affecting fruit ripening and marketable quality of capsicum fruits grown during the winter season.
Drought-Tolerance QTLs Associated with Grain Yield and Related Traits in Spring Bread Wheat
Authors: Bennani Sahar , Birouk Ahmed , Jlibene Mohammed , Sanchez-Garcia Miguel , Nsarellah Nasserelhaq , Gaboun Fatima , Tadesse Wuletaw
Published: April 2022

The present research aims to identify the efficient combination of drought-tolerance selection criteria and associated quantitative trait loci. A panel of 197 bread wheat genotypes was evaluated for yield- and drought-tolerance-related traits in two environments (favorable and semiarid) for 2 years (2015–2016). Grain number, biomass, number of fertile spikes per plant and ground cover exhibited a significant correlation with grain yield and constitute potential secondary selection criteria for yield under drought conditions. About 73 significant marker–trait associations were detected along various chromosomal positions. The markers “wsnp_Ex_Rep_c67786_66472676” and “ExcalibuR_c24593_1217” exhibited important genetic gains associated with yield increase under drought (11 and 7%, respectively). The markers “KukRi_c94792_127” and “wsnp_Ex_c298_580660” showed a significant correlation with grain yield, biomass and grain number and were associated with a significant increase in yield performance at the semiarid site (+6 and +7%, respectively). The ground cover was found associated with grain yield and biomass through the markers “wsnp_Ex_Rep_c67786_66472676” (+11%) and “KukRi_c49927_151” (+10%). One marker “TduRuM_contig25432_1377” on chromosome 5B at 20 cM was consistently correlated with the number of fertile spikes across both environments. Further research should be considered to validate the efficiency of these markers to undertake selection for drought tolerance under various environments and genetic backgrounds.
Deadwood Amount at Disturbance Plots after Sanitary Felling
Authors: Merganič Ján , Merganičová Katarína , Vlčková Mária , Dudáková Zuzana , Ferenčík Michal , Mokroš Martin , Juško Vladimír , Allman Michal , Tomčík Daniel
Published: April 2022

Deadwood is an important component of forests that fulfils many ecosystem functions. The occurrence, amount and spatial distribution of deadwood in forest ecosystems depend on tree species composition, historical development and past management. In this presented study, we assessed the total amount of deadwood, including fine and coarse woody debris at five areas of predominantly broadleaved forests within the University Forest Enterprise of the Technical University in Zvolen, Slovakia that had been disturbed by windstorm Žofia in 2014. Windthrown wood was salvaged between May 2014 and October 2015. In the year 2018, we performed an inventory of deadwood that remained on-site after salvage logging. The mean volume of deadwood recorded at sample plots fluctuated between 35.96 m3/ha and 176.06 m3/ha and mean deadwood coverage values at individual disturbed areas ranged from 7.27 to 17.91%. In the work, we derived several models for the estimation of deadwood volume based on deadwood coverage and/or diameter, which showed that these characteristics are good proxies of deadwood volume. The tests, involving close-range photogrammetry methods for deadwood quantification, revealed that the number of pieces and the coverage of deadwood recorded in photos was significantly lower than the values derived from field measurements.
Assessment of Tolerance to Lanthanum and Cerium in Helianthus Annuus Plant: Effect on Growth, Mineral Nutrition, and Secondary Metabolism
Authors: Dridi Nesrine , Ferreira Renata , Bouslimi Houda , Brito Pedro , Martins-Dias Susete , Caçador Isabel , Sleimi Noomene
Published: April 2022

Rare earth elements (REEs) present a group of nonessential metals for the growth and development of plants. At high concentrations, they can induce internal stress and disturb the physiological and biochemical mechanisms in plants. The potential uptake of lanthanum (La) and cerium (Ce) by the horticultural plant Helianthus annuus and the effect of these elements on its growth, its absorption of macroelements, and the contents of phenolic compounds and flavonoids were assessed. The plants were exposed to 0, 1, 2.5, 5, and 10 µM of La and Ce for 14 days. The results showed a remarkable accumulation of the two REEs, especially in the roots, which was found to be positively correlated with the total phenolic compound and flavonoid content in the plant shoots and roots. The plant’s growth parameter patterns (such as dry weight and water content); the levels of potassium, calcium, and magnesium; and the tolerance index varied with the concentrations of the two studied elements. According to the tolerance index values, H. annuus had more affinity to La than to Ce. Although these metals were accumulated in H. annuus tissues, this Asteraceae plant cannot be considered as a hyperaccumulator species of these two REEs, since the obtained REE content in the plant’s upper parts was less than 1000 mg·Kg−1 DW.
Silicon Application Promotes Productivity, Silicon Accumulation and Upregulates Silicon Transporter Gene Expression in Rice
Authors: Chaiwong Nanthana , Pusadee Tonapha , Jamjod Sansanee , Prom-u-thai Chanakan
Published: April 2022

Rice has been shown to respond positively to Si fertilizer in terms of growth and productivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a series of Si application rates on grain yield, Si concentration, and the expression of the OsLsi6 gene among three Thai rice varieties. The varieties CNT1, PTT1, and KDML105 were grown in a pot experiment under six levels of Si (0, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 kg Si/ha). Grain yield was the highest at 300 kg Si/ha, being increased by 35%, 53%, and 69% in CNT1, PTT1, and KDML105, respectively, compared with the plants grown without added Si. For Si concentrations in rice plants, rising Si fertilizer application up to 150 kg/ha significantly increased the Si concentration in straw, flag leaf, and husk in all varieties. The Si concentration in all tissues was higher under high Si (300 kg Si/ha). Applying Si fertilizer also increased the expression level of OsLsi6 in both CNT1 and PTT1 varieties. The highest expression level of OsLsi6 was associated with 300 kg Si/ha, being increased by 548% in CNT1 and 326% in PTT1 compared with untreated plants. These results indicate that Si application is an effective way to improve rice yield as well as Si concentration, and that the effect is related to the higher expression of the OsLsi6 gene.
The Phytochemical Profile and Anticancer Activity of Anthemis tinctoria and Angelica sylvestris Used in Estonian Ethnomedicine
Authors: Raal Ain , Jaama Marel , Utt Meeme , Püssa Tõnu , Žvikas Vaidotas , Jakštas Valdas , Koshovyi Oleh , Nguyen Khan Viet , Thi Nguyen Hoai
Published: April 2022

The aerial parts of Anthemis tinctoria L. and Angelica sylvestris L. and the roots of A. sylvestris have been used as traditional anticancer remedies in Estonian ethnomedicine. The aim of this study was to investigate content of essential oils (by gas chromatography) and polyphenolic compounds (using two different methods of high performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS)) of both plant species, as well as the in vitro anti-cancer effects of their essential oils and methanolic extracts. The average (n = 5 samples) yield of essential oils was 0.15%, 0.13%, and 0.17%, respectively. The principal compounds of the essential oil from the aerial parts of A. tinctoria were palmitic acid (15.3%), p-cymene (12.6%), and α-muurolene (12.5%), and α-pinene (45.4%), p-cymene (15.5%), and β-myrcene (13.3%) in aerial parts of A. sylvestris, while isocaryophyllene oxide (31.9%), α-bisabolol (17.5%), and α-pinene (12.4%) were the main constituents in the roots. The most abundant phenolic compounds in aerial parts were the derivatives of caffeic acid, quinic acid, and quercetin; the main compounds in roots of A. sylvestris were chlorogenic acid, quinic acid, and naringenin. The strongest anticancer effects were observed in essential oils of A. sylvestris roots and aerial parts on human carcinoma in the mouth cells (KB, IC50 19.73 μg/mL and 19.84 μg/mL, respectively). The essential oil of A. tinctoria showed a strong effect on KB and LNCaP cells (27.75–29.96 μg/mL). The methanolic extracts of both plants had no effect on the cancer cells studied.
Simple, Fast and Efficient Methods for Analysing the Structural, Ultrastructural and Cellular Components of the Cell Wall
Authors: Falcioni Renan , Moriwaki Thaise , Furlanetto Renato Herrig , Nanni Marcos Rafael , Antunes Werner Camargos
Published: April 2022

Plant cell walls are a fundamental component of plant biology and play an essential role in plant growth and development. The metabolic components of the cell wall can be investigated in a fast, simple, and highly efficient manner using various and distinct microscopy techniques. Here, we report implementing a flowchart to analyse tobacco plants’ structural, ultrastructural, and metabolic components supplemented with far-red light. In addition, biochemical components, such as lignin, cellulose, phenolic compounds, and reducing sugars, present in the plant cell walls were quantified using light, fluorescence, and electron microscopy. Our data were generated from samples prepared via tissue fixation, incorporation in resins, and slicing using microtomes. Moreover, we have used routine staining and contrast techniques to characterise plant cell walls. Here, we describe several protocols that use classic and modern techniques as well as qualitative and quantitative analytical methods to study cell walls, enabling the plant research community to understand and select the most suitable methods for the microscopic analysis of metabolic components. Finally, we discuss specific ideas aimed at new students of plant anatomy and microscopy. This research not only described the structural, ultrastructural, and metabolic components of the plant cell wall, but also explained the strategies for understanding cellular development.
Effect of Pre-Treating Dietary Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder with Fibrolytic Enzymes on Physiological and Meat Quality Parameters in Jumbo Quail
Authors: Mulaudzi Anzai , Mnisi Caven Mguvane , Mlambo Victor
Published: April 2022

High fiber levels (165 g neutral detergent fibre (NDF)/kg DM) in Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) could limit its utilization as a nutraceutical source in Jumbo quail diets. Pre-treating MOLP with exogenous fibrolytic multi-enzymes could reduce the nutrient-encapsulating effect of non-starch polysaccharides and subsequently increase nutrient and bioactive compound utilization. Thus, this study investigated the effect of pre-treating dietary MOLP with an exogenous fibrolytic enzyme mixture on some physiological parameters and meat quality characteristics in Jumbo quail. A total of 396 Jumbo quail were randomly distributed to 6 experimental diets, with 6 replicate pens each and 11 birds per replicate. The experimental diets were: CON = a standard grower diet (156.5 g NDF /kg) without MOLP; ENZ0 = CON + 10% MOLP; and CON + MOLP pre-treated with 0.25% (ENZ25), 0.50% (ENZ50), 0.75% (ENZ75) and 1% (ENZ100) fibrolytic enzymes. There were no significant linear or quadratic effects on growth performance parameters and carcass characteristics in response to incremental levels of fibrolytic enzymes. However, neutrophils linearly increased, while breast meat lightness and 24 h hue angle linearly declined with enzyme levels. Quadratic effects were observed on gizzard weights and 1 h hue angle in response to enzyme levels. All the hemato-biochemical values fell within the normal ranges for healthy quail. It was concluded that the maximum fibrolytic multi-enzyme application rate of 1% may not have been adequate to enhance feed utilization and positively affect weight gain in Jumbo quail, thus higher levels may need to be investigated further.
The Volume Stability of Alkali-Activated Electric Arc Furnace Ladle Slag Mortar and Its Performance at High Temperatures
Authors: Lu Tung-Hsuan , Chen Ying-Liang , Wang Hong-Paul , Chang Juu-En
Published: April 2022

In this study, the engineering properties of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and alkali-activated slag (AAS) mortar with electric arc furnace ladle slag (EAFLS) were investigated to reveal the effects of EAFLS on the expansion of cementitious mortars. Additionally, the effects of these two types of mortar were explored based on their compressive strength, especially at high temperatures. EAFLS in OPC mortars significantly reduced the compressive strength and caused serious soundness problems in the mortars after autoclaving due to the presence of free-CaO and free-MgO in the EAFLS slag. On the other hand, the AAS mortars produced with EAFLS had compressive strength comparable to ordinary OPC mortars and maintained soundness after autoclaving. During a 550 °C heat treatment, the OPC mortar cracked and lost residual strength, but the AAS mortar retained more than 90% of its residual strength. Even after an 800 °C heat treatment, the AAS mortar maintained 14% of its residual strength (about 4 MPa), sufficient to prevent the collapse of the specimen structure. The main reason is that alkali-activated technology can accelerate the hydration process and solve the delayed hydration problem. The results of this study indicated that EAFLS is suitable to partially replace the binder used in the production of AAS mortars, and the resulting AAS mortars have high volume stability, high compression strength, and good high temperature resistance.
Effect of Drying Methods and Processing Conditions on the Quality of Curcuma longa Powder
Authors: Llano Sandra M. , Gómez Ana María , Duarte-Correa Yudy
Published: April 2022

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a spice that has been used for a long time in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties and recently used in the food industry for its dyeing and flavoring properties. This work studied the effect of different drying methods (convection oven drying, fluidized bed drying, and traditional solar drying) on the quality of Curcuma longa powder. The effect of UV radiation on turmeric powder using different packaging materials (glass, aluminum foil bag, and low-density polyethylene bag), was also studied. Subsequently, the fluidized bed drying method was used to evaluate the effect of drying temperature. The results show that convection and fluidized bed drying had no significant impact on turmeric quality. However, solar drying degraded curcuminoids by 36.5% and the ORAC value decreased by 14%. Regarding the packaging materials, the aluminum bag prevented the deterioration of 14% of the curcuminoids for the powder exposed to UV radiation. Finally, the effect of temperature on fluidized bed drying was evaluated at 50–80 °C, finding that there were no significant differences in the curcuminoid content and antioxidant capacity of turmeric powder. This implies that the range of temperature used in this study is appropriate for drying this material using fluidized bed drying, producing a turmeric powder with a high content of bioactive compounds, when compared to convection oven and solar drying. Therefore, the turmeric powder obtained in this way can be used as an active ingredient in the formulation of different kinds of foods and supplements.
A Substrate Integrated Waveguide Resonator Sensor for Dual-Band Complex Permittivity Measurement
Authors: Chen Qian , Long Zhuo , Shinohara Naoki , Liu Changjun
Published: April 2022

This paper presents a novel dual-band substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) sensor that is designed to measure the complex permittivities of liquids or solid powders at two industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) frequencies simultaneously. Resonant frequencies and quality factors are obtained from S-parameter measurements with the proposed SIW sensor, and applied to reconstructing the permittivities of materials under test through an artificial neural network. The water–ethanol mixed liquids were measured with the proposed sensor. The maximum deviations of the measured permittivities at 2.45 and 5.8 GHz are within 3% of literature results. The measurement by the proposed SIW sensor with artificial neural network reconstruction is accurate and efficient.