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Background: Regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) has emerged as a treatment modality that reduces bleeding risk and filter clotting. With initial experience of using RCA with continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), we have formulated a working protocol based on published literature. Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the protocol for routine use of RCA during CRRT requiring anticoagulation and evaluation of filter life. Methodology: It is a single-center, open-label, prospective, non-randomized, non-interventional, single-arm, observational study conducted at a tertiary care hospital between September 2022 and July 2023. All adult patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) or hyperammonemia requiring CRRT and necessitating the use of anticoagulation were enrolled in the study. The study used Prisma Flex M100 AN 69 dialyzer on Prisma Flex (Baxter) CRRT machines during continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF). The targeted CRRT dose in all the study patients was 25-30 mL/kg/hour. Based on the published literature, we have developed a working protocol (Appendix 1) for managing patients on CRRT using RCA. Results: A total of 159 patients were analyzed for the study. The median [interquartile range (IQR)] filter life using RCA was 30 (12-55) hours. Filter clotting was observed in 33.3% of patients. Citrate accumulation was present in 52.25% of patients, but no CRRT was discontinued as citrate accumulation resolved after following the corrective steps in the protocol. None of the patients had citrate toxicity. Chronic liver disease (CLD) (p ≤ 0.001) and those who were post-living donor liver transplant recipients (p = 0.004) had a statistically significant increase in citrate accumulation. Also, patients who had higher lactate at baseline (6 hours post-CRRT initiation), had a higher chance of citrate accumulation. Conclusion: Our RCA protocol provides a safe approach to regional anticoagulation during CRRT in critically ill patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study Leggett–Garg inequalities (LGIs) for a two level system (TLS) undergoing Markovian dynamics described by unital maps. We first find the analytic expression of LG parameter K 3 (simplest variant of LGIs) in terms of the parameters of two distinct unital maps representing time evolution for intervals: t 1 to t 2 and t 2 to t 3. We then show that the maximum violation of LGI for all possible unital maps can never exceed well known Lüders bound of K 3 L u ¨ d e r s = 3 / 2 over the full parameter space. We further show that if the map for the time interval t 1 to t 2 is non-unitary unital then irrespective of the choice of the map for interval t 2 to t 3 we can never reach Lüders bound. On the other hand, if the measurement operator eigenstates remain pure upon evolution from t 1 to t 2, then depending on the degree of decoherence induced by the unital map for the interval t 2 to t 3 we may or may not obtain Lüders bound. Specifically, we find that if the unital map for interval t 2 to t 3 leads to the shrinking of the Bloch vector beyond half of its unit length, then achieving the bound K 3 L u ¨ d e r s is not possible. Hence our findings not only establish a threshold for decoherence which will allow for K 3 = K 3 L u ¨ d e r s , but also demonstrate the importance of temporal sequencing of the exposure of a TLS to Markovian baths in obtaining Lüders bound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effective two-spin density matrix (TSDM) for a pair of spin-1/2 degree of freedom, residing at a distance of R in a spinfull Fermi sea, can be obtained from the two-electron density matrix following the framework prescribed in Oh and Kim (Phys Rev A 69:054305, 2004. https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.69.054305). We note that the single-spin density matrix (SSDM) obtained from this TSDM for generic spin-degenerate systems of free fermions is always pinned to the maximally mixed state, i.e. (1 / 2) I , independent of the distance R, while the TSDM confirms to the form for the set of maximally entangled mixed state (the so-called X-state) at finite R. The X-state reduces to a pure state (a singlet) in the R → 0 limit, while it saturates to an X-state with the largest allowed value of von-Neumann entropy of 2 ln 2 as R → ∞ independent of the value of chemical potential. However, once an external magnetic field is applied to lift the spin-degeneracy, we find that the von-Neumann entropy of SSDM becomes a function of the distance R between the two spins. We also show that the von-Neumann entropy of TSDM in the R → ∞ limit becomes a function of the chemical potential and it saturates to 2 ln 2 only when the band in completely filled unlike the spin-degenerate case. Finally, we extend our study to include spin–orbit coupling and show that it does effect these asymptotic results. Our findings are in sharp contrast to previous works, which were based on continuum models owing to physics which stem from the lattice model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite being a promising feedstock for food, feed, chemicals, and biofuels, microalgal production processes are still uneconomical due to slow growth rates, costly media, problematic downstreaming processes, and rather low cell densities. Immobilization via entrapment constitutes a promising tool to overcome these drawbacks of microalgal production and enables continuous processes with protection against shear forces and contaminations. In contrast to biopolymer gels, inorganic silica hydrogels are highly transparent and chemically, mechanically, thermally, and biologically stable. Since the first report on entrapment of living cells in silica hydrogels in 1989, efforts were made to increase the biocompatibility by omitting organic solvents during hydrolysis, removing toxic by-products, and replacing detrimental mineral acids or bases for pH adjustment. Furthermore, methods were developed to decrease the stiffness in order to enable proliferation of entrapped cells. This review aims to provide an overview of studied entrapment methods in silica hydrogels, specifically for rather sensitive microalgae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential of semiochemicals for the targeted behavior manipulation of insects has been known for a long time. Their low impact on non-target organisms makes them interesting candidates for use in insect control for various applications such as agricultural and forestry pest control, stored-product protection and protection against hematophagous insects. Due to their high volatility and chemical instability against UV light and oxidation, their use often remains limited. Tailor-made formulations can protect semiochemicals from environmental factors and can improve release performance and duration triggering a desired reaction in the target insect at the place of application. This review provides an overview of recent formulation types developed for insect behavior manipulation by semiochemicals, with emphasis on formulation aspects and formulation potential for slow and controlled release. The focus was set on inventions and studies aiming to elucidate material and formulation properties that affect the semiochemical release and, with specific attention, enable targeted release manipulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the dynamics of a non-Hermitian PT- symmetric Hamiltonian of a two level system (TLS) which has real eigenvalues. Within the framework of Hermitian quantum mechanics, it is known that maximal violation of Leggett–Garg inequality (LGI) is bounded by K3 = 3/2 (Luder's bound). We show that this absolute bound can be evaded when dynamics is governed by non-Hermitian PT- symmetric Hamiltonians with real eigenvalues. Moreover, the extent of violation can be optimized to asymptotically approach the algebraic maximum of , which is otherwise observed for Hermitian Hamiltonian with infinite dimensional Hilbert space. The extreme violation of LGI is shown to be directly related to the two basic ingredients: (i) the Bloch equation for the TLS having a non-linear terms which allow for accelerated dynamics of states on the Bloch sphere exceeding all known quantum speed limits of state evolution; and (ii) quantum trajectory of states lie on a great circle (geodesic path) on the Bloch sphere at all times. We demonstrate that such extreme temporal correlation of TLS can be simulated in realistic system by embedding the TLS into a higher dimensional Hilbert space such that the composite system obeys unitary dynamics. Specifically we show that a four dimensional embedding of non-Hermitian PT- symmetric TLS is enough to host K3 → 3 limit. We also discuss the effect of random noise on our results. Finally we conclude with a comparative study of our results with existing experimental realization of embedding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been a rapid growth in construction activities during the last few decades owing to overall development in all facets of humanity. Due to technological advancements and ever increasing civilization, there is a persistent need of energy. Along with the conventional energy sources, the renewable energy sources have also significantly contributed to the rising energy needs. As a renewable source of energy, numerous small hydro-power plants (SHPPs) have been built up across the world in the recent past. Usually these SHPPs are being built and operated by the private developers complying with the government regulations. In order to assist a developer in selecting the most profitable and feasible SHPP for construction and subsequent operation, a method based on fuzzy axiomatic design principles is employed in this paper. The techno-commercial and socio-economic criteria as considered for analyzing the feasibility of the candidate SHPPs are expressed qualitatively using trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. The performance of each SHPP is evaluated in terms of its total information content and the one with the least information content is selected to be the best venture for the required construction activity. The adopted methodology is found to have immense potential to the developers while selecting the most feasible project for construction. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Effective movement of materials plays an important role in successful operation of any organization. Proper methods adopted for material movement are also crucial for the overall safety of the personnel involved in the manufacturing processes. Selection of the appropriate material handling equipment (MHE) is a vital task for improving productivity of an organization. In today's technological era, varieties of MHEs are available to carry out a desired task. Depending on the type of material to be moved, there are many quantitative and qualitative factors influencing the selection decision of a suitable MHE. The problem of selecting the right type of MHE for a given purpose can be solved using multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods which are capable of dealing with the combination of crisp and fuzzy data. In this paper, an MCDM method employing fuzzy axiomatic design principles is applied for selecting the most appropriate MHE for the given task. As a measure of suitability, the total information content is calculated for each MHE and the MHE alternative with the least total information content is regarded as the best choice. Two real time problems from the literature, i.e. selection of an automated guided vehicle, and selection of loading and hauling equipments in surface mines, are solved to validate the applicability, flexibility and potentiality of the adopted approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim:Valeriana hardwickii Wall. belongs to family Valerianaceae grown in high altitude areas of north west Himalaya to Bhutan. Traditionally, the roots of the plant are used to treat insomnia; however, no reports are available regarding any pharmacognostic work on this plant. Material and Methods: The study includes morphological, microscopic and preliminary phytochemical investigations of the roots and rhizome. Anatomical studies of roots and rhizome shows the presence of diagnostic characters such as thick walled cortex cells, annular xylem fiber, pitted xylem vessel and rhizome hair. Results: The preliminary phytochemical screening of petroleum ether, dichlomethane and aqueous extract revealed the presence of tritepenoids, alkaloids, irridoidal glycosides and flavanoids. The study was carried out as per WHO guidelines. Conclusion: The outcome of this work will help the researchers to differentiate V. hardwickii from the other species of valerian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We present a detailed overview on materials, capsule morphologies and methods. [•] We particularly refer to the suitability for biological control agents. [•] We put emphasis on chemical aspects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a biodegradable, water-soluble polymer with excellent film forming properties, commonly studied or used as tablet coating, food packaging or controlled release fertilizers. Attract-and-kill (AK) beads are sustainable, microbial alternatives to synthetic soil insecticides, whose onset of lethal effect largely depend on how fast the encapsulated entomopathogenic fungus forms virulent conidia. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a water-soluble coating accelerating the kill effect of AK beads by immediately releasing virulent Metarhizium brunneum CB15-III blastospores. We assessed three PVA types (PVA 4-88, 8-88, 10-98) which differed in their degree of hydrolysis or molecular weight for their ability to release viable blastospores from thin films after drying at 60–40 °C, and examined how polyethylene glycol and soy-lecithin impact the blastospore survival. Finally, we evaluated the effectiveness of coated AK beads in a bioassay against Tenebrio molitor larvae. The blastospore release rate quadrupled within the first 5 min with decreasing molecular weight and degree of hydrolysis, with PVA 4-88 releasing 79 ± 19% blastospores. Polyethylene glycol and soy-lecithin significantly increased the blastospore survival to 18–28% for all three PVA types. Coated beads exhibited a uniform, 22.4 ± 7.3 µm thin coating layer, with embedded blastospores, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. The blastospore coating increased the mortality rate of T. molitor larvae over uncoated AK beads, decreasing the median lethal time from 10 to 6 days. Consequently, the blastospore coating accelerated the kill effect of regular AK beads. These findings pave the way to enhanced pest control efficacy from coated systems such as beads or seeds. Key points: PVA enables immobilization of virulent blastospores on alginate beads. Blastospore coating accelerates kill effect of attract-and-kill beads. PEG4000 and soy lecithin improve blastospore survival in PVA films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, fermentation and formulation aspects of the nematophagous fungus Hirsutella rhossiliensis BBA were investigated. When incubated in 2% (w/w) glucose and 0.5% (w/w) yeast extract medium in a 1-L Erlenmeyer flask without baffles, heavy pellet formation was observed. Only 40% of the mycelium had a size less than 500 μm. When a flask with three baffles was used, the portion of mycelium <500 μm rose to 95%. In the next step, the influence of aeration rate and stirrer speed on production of finely dispersed mycelium in a stirred tank reactor was investigated. The best fermentation results were obtained at 0.4 vvm and 400 rpm stirrer speed with 90% mycelium <500 μm and 5 g/L biomass. Then, mycelium was microencapsulated in hollow beads based on sulfoethylcellulose (SEC). Experiments on the capsule nutrient reservoir showed that 15% (w/w) corn gluten and 0.5% (w/w) yeast extract could be replaced with 3% (w/w) autoclaved baker's yeast which was never used as capsule additive before. Radial growth of mycelium out of dried hollow beads containing 1% (w/w) biomass and 3% (w/w) baker's yeast was faster than for alginate beads containing equivalent amounts of biomass and yeast indicating a higher bio-control potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Batkoa is a genus of entomophthoralean fungi often associated with insect epizootics, particularly in phytophagous hemipterans. Encapsulation has become a promising strategy for improving the shelf life and sporulation of these fungi post-application. This study aims to (i) compare the virulence of the submerged propagules and primary conidia of Batkoa sp. ESALQ1199 against Dalbulus maidis; (ii) formulate submerged propagules in calcium alginate beads with co-formulants; (iii) assess the colony-forming units and sporulation of encapsulated beads dried with different kaolin concentrations (0%, 2%, 4%, 8% and 10%); (iv) determine the shelf life of dried bead formulations containing 10% kaolin, comparing washed and unwashed beads treated with a 4% sucrose solution; and (v) assess the sporulation capacity of beads with 10% kaolin, washed and unwashed with 4% sucrose solution, over time under humid conditions. Our results demonstrated that primary conidia and submerged propagules effectively killed 82.4% and 57.8% of adult corn leafhoppers, respectively. Co-formulants maintained viability above 80% in dried propagules, while control samples dropped to 45%, indicating the sensitivity of submerged propagules to the drying process. Encapsulated Batkoa sp. retained the same concentration of viable propagules per bead and the number of conidia produced (sporulation) for 30 days at 28 °C. The sporulation of fresh beads increased during the incubation period, plateauing after 27 days. This suggests that Batkoa sp. beads can produce primary conidia under humid field conditions, serving as a potential inoculum source for new infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The control of root-feeding wireworms has become more challenging as synthetic soil insecticides have been progressively phased out due to environmental risk concerns. Innovative microbial control alternatives such as the so-called attract-and-kill strategy depend on the rapid and successful development of dried encapsulated microorganisms, which is initiated by rehydration. Casein is a functional additive that is already used in food or pharmaceutical industry due to its water binding capacity. Cross-linked forms such as formalin-casein (FC), exhibit altered network structures. To determine whether FC influences the rehydration of alginate beads in order to increase the efficacy of an attract-and-kill formulation for wireworm pest control, we incorporated either casein or FC in different alginate/starch formulations. We investigated the porous properties of alginate/starch beads and subsequently evaluated the activities of the encapsulated entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium brunneum and the CO2 producing yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Adding caseins altered the porous structure of beads. FC decreased the bead density from (1.0197 ± 0.0008) g/mL to (1.0144 ± 0.0008) g/mL and the pore diameter by 31%. In contrast to casein, FC enhanced the water absorbency of alginate/starch beads by 40%. Furthermore, incorporating FC quadrupled the spore density on beads containing M. brunneum and S. cerevisiae, and simultaneous venting increased the spore density even by a factor of 18. Moreover, FC increased the total CO2 produced by M. brunneum and S. cerevisiae by 29%. Thus, our findings suggest that rehydration is enhanced by larger capillaries, resulting in an increased water absorption capacity. Our data further suggest that gas exchange is improved by FC. Therefore, our results indicate that FC enhances the fungal activity of both fungi M. brunneum and S. cerevisiae, presumably leading to an enhanced attract-and-kill efficacy for pest control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim and background: Sarcopenia is a substantial contributor to intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired weakness and is associated with significant short- and long-term outcomes. It can, however, be mitigated by providing appropriate nutrition. Indirect calorimetry (IC) is believed to be the gold standard in determining caloric targets in the dynamic environment of critical illness. We conducted this study to compare the effect of IC vs weight-based (25 kcal/kg/day) feeding on quadriceps muscle thickness (QMT) by ultrasound in critically ill patients. Materials and methods: A prospective study was conducted on 60 mechanically ventilated patients randomized to two groups [weight-based equation (WBE) group or the IC group] in medical ICU after obtaining institutional ethics committee approval, and fed accordingly. The right QMT measurement using ultrasound and caloric targets were documented on day 1, 3 and 7 and analyzed statistically. The IC readings were obtained from the metabolic cart E-COVX Module™. Results: The baseline demographics, APACHE-II, NUTRIC score, and SOFA scores on day 1, 3, and 7 were comparable between the two groups. The resting energy expenditure (REE) obtained in the IC group was significantly less than the WBE energy targets and the former were fed with significantly less calories. A significantly less percent reduction of QMT in the IC group compared with the WBE group was observed from day 1 to day 3, day 3 to day 7, and day 1 to day 7. Conclusion: From our study, we conclude that IC-REE-based nutrition is associated with lesser reduction in QMT and lesser calories fed in critically ill mechanically ventilated patients compared from WBE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Entrapment of cells in low-sodium hydrogel lenses maintained growth and photosynthetic activity. • Particle size reduction increases light supply, but maintains the specific growth rate in the silica hydrogel lenses. • Elevated biomass loading of gels leads to increased photosynthetic growth. • Proof-of-concept revealed hydrogen production by cells entrapped in low-sodium silica lenses. Entrapment of microalgae in silica hydrogels enables the application as biocatalysts in continuous production of secreted products. Despite a mitigation of substrate and product diffusion limitations by lens-shaped particles, there are no reports on light supply and limitation. This study investigated the impact of hydrogel structure, particle size and biomass loading on the behaviour of the microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii entrapped in lens-shaped silica particles. Entrapment in tetraethyl orthosilicate and tetra(n -propylamino)silane based hydrogels reduced the growth rate by 30% and 23%, respectively. In contrast, cells entrapped in sodium silicate based hydrogels displayed a growth rate similar to free cells and cells entrapped in calcium alginate (1.13 d−1), indicating a suitable biocompatibility. Reduction of lens height by 26% maintained the growth rate in silica hydrogel. A fourfold increase in biomass loading reduced the growth rate by 20% and elevated the yield coefficient by 211%, indicating the impact of biomass loading on light and nutrient supply on photosynthetic growth. Finally, hydrogen production was observed by entrapped cells. The results of this work will pave the way for robust biocatalytic processes where photosynthetically active cells are protected against harmful mechanical and biological influences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining bio‐ and chemocatalysts for chemoenzymatic reaction sequences is of high interest to organic chemistry. In this study, we combined a ring‐closing metathesis reaction conducted by a Grubbs' catalyst and a subsequent enzymatic ester hydrolysis reaction conducted by pig liver esterase within a two‐step one‐pot process. We addressed sustainability by encapsulating both catalysts in biopolymer‐based hydrogels derived from renewable resources to allow straightforward recycling and using aqueous media for the reactions. When we investigated the approaches of either conducting the reaction sequence in the same solvent for both reactions or using different preferred solvents for each reaction, the enzyme activity turned out to be enhanced when encapsulating the enzyme, thus shielding it from the Grubbs' catalyst. In terms of recycling, the encapsulated catalysts demonstrated promising performance with >80 % conversion for seven runs. Biopolymer hydrogels: Here we report the application of Grubbs' catalyst and pig liver esterase, separately encapsulated in biopolymer hydrogels, in a sequential chemoenzymatic one‐pot reaction in aqueous media. The sequence was conducted by using the same or different media for each reaction. When using different media for each reaction, recycling was enabled by reaching >80 % conversion after seven cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Successive chloroform, methanol and water extracts of bark and leaves of Albizzia lebbeck were tested for its in vitro mast cell stabilizing effect against compound 48/80. Methanolic extract of leaf and methanolic and water extracts of bark have shown maximum activity comparable to that of disodium chromoglycate. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In an in‐depth study of the mechanism of cation release from carboxymethyl cellulose hydrogels synthesized through Schiff base reaction, we analyze the differences in the release kinetics of potassium, calcium, and iron cations with Peleg model at pH values of pH 3.5 and pH 8.5 using ICP‐OES (inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy) technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metathesis in water represents a current challenge in green chemistry, since hydrophobic catalysts are non-soluble in this medium. Although this issue has been addressed by modification of the hydrophobic ligand structure, alternative methods for conducting metathesis in water are of interest, such as catalyst encapsulation. In this contribution we report successful encapsulation of the Grubbs’ second-generation catalyst in alginate hydrogels, representing a renewable resource, to perform ring-closing metathesis (RCM) in water. We initially investigated the influence of different solvents on the reaction rate and confirmed that water is a preferred solvent. A comparison of non-encapsulated and encapsulated catalyst in calcium alginate revealed that the reaction rate for non-encapsulated catalyst was notably higher, which can be explained by “on water” conditions in this case. Inside the beads the encapsulated catalyst remained heterogeneous, thus allowing to switch the catalysis mode between “in/on water” through encapsulation. To overcome diffusion limitation and enhance reaction rate, we prepared a tailor-made bead material by introducing hydrophobic octyl-grafted alginate amide. Using such a hydrogel, diffusion limitation was positively influenced by hydrophobisation of the matrix, resulting in up to quadrupled reaction rates compared to calcium alginate as a standard encapsulation material. In terms of recycling, this encapsulated catalyst revealed promising performance, retaining 80% of its activity after ten runs. This is the first reported application of hydrophobised alginate derivatives in catalysed organic synthesis, achieving excellent encapsulation efficiency, no measurable leaching and yields of up to 87%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Encapsulation of hydrolases in biopolymer-based hydrogels often suffers from low activities and encapsulation efficiencies along with high leaching and unsatisfactory recycling properties. Exemplified for the encapsulation of pig liver esterase the coating of alginate and chitosan beads have been studied by creating various biopolymer hydrogel beads. Enzyme activity and encapsulation efficiency were notably enhanced by chitosan coating of alginate beads while leaching remained nearly unchanged. This was caused by the enzymatic reaction acidifying the matrix, which increased enzyme retention through enhanced electrostatic enzyme-alginate interaction but decreased activity through enzyme deactivation. A practical and ready-to-use method for visualising pH in beads during reaction by co-encapsulation of a conventional pH indicator was also found. Our method proves that pH control inside the beads can only be realised by buffering. The resulting beads provided a specific activity of 0.267 μmol ∙ min -1 ∙ mg -1 , effectiveness factor 0.88, encapsulation efficiency of 88%, 5% leaching and good recycling properties. This work will contribute towards better understanding and application of encapsulated hydrolases for enzymatic syntheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant extracts from the neem tree can be applied as a bioinsecticidal compound in ‘attract-and-kill’ co-formulations to control soil-dwelling insect pests. Since insects are attracted to the bioinsecticide, the attract-and-kill approach benefits from a reduced dose of insecticide needed. Here, we demonstrate that a powdery neem seed kernel extract in combination with corn starch significantly enhances the drying survival of co-encapsulated CO2-releasingSaccharomyces cerevisiae. Additionally, an increased content of the neem extract was shown to slow down the relative release of azadirachtin A. Both findings are of high relevance for the development of formulations in the field of biological pest control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodegradable hydrogels have great potential in agriculture. In this study, hydrogel prototypes of biodegradable slow-release fertilizers were formulated by a Schiff base reaction between dialdehyde carboxymethyl cellulose and gelatin. The release behavior of iron cations from these carboxymethyl cellulose-based hydrogels with different degrees of substitution was studied. The analyses of the relation between correlation length of the cross-linked hydrogels and the degree of substitution, i.e., the amount of negatively charged positions in the hydrogels, allowed to determine the influence of structure and electrostatic interaction on cation release kinetics, which was successfully described by Peleg's Model. The hydrogel with the lowest degree of substitution reveals the slowest release of cations due to the smallest correlation length. These results demonstrate that the correlation length is dominant for the release of divalent cations. Moreover, this also shows the potential of the DACMC-Gelatin hydrogels as matrix for slow-release fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oleogels have been widely studied as delivery matrices for lipophilic compounds. Despite their potential, oleogels are underexplored for the formulation and release of semiochemicals for insect behavior manipulation strategies. An ethylcellulose‐candelilla wax‐oleogel as a suitable carrier for the slow release of volatile semiochemicals, employing the sesquiterpene β‐caryophyllene as a model substance is presented. A current drawback of ethylcellulose oleogels is the high temperature needed during the oleogel preparation procedure, leading to excessive volatilization of the active compounds. Reducing the gelling temperature from 104.8 to 66.9 °C and, thus, the volatile addition temperature by addition of the softener octyldodecanol results in 95.28% entrapment efficiency. Experimental results demonstrate release modifiability by tailoring the matrix crystalline state due to candelilla wax addition. Furthermore, a method is established for analyzing the self‐adhesive properties of the gel on plant leaves. In addition, the gel's self‐adhesive properties employed on apple leaves are synergistically affected by oil leakage and gel stiffness. Olfactometer experiments showed that the formulation is able to enhance the attractiveness of aphid‐infested plants for parasitic wasps. The present study provides a novel matrix‐type semiochemical formulation based on non‐toxic, biobased and biodegradable materials and will contribute to the establishment of oleogels as delivery systems for semiochemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pandora sp. nov. inedit. (ARSEF13372) is a recently isolated entomophthoralean fungus with high potential for psyllid pest control. The use of entomopathogenic fungi as biocontrol agents in large-scale field application requires biomass production in a sufficient quantity and quality. This work is the first attempt to explore the biomass production of the novel entomophthoralean Pandora species in a liquid medium. This study aims at establishing a submerged fermentation process with potential for mass production of the fungus. Three different complex nutrient sources were evaluated for maximising biomass in a liquid shaking culture. Pandora sp. nov. grew best in media containing skimmed milk, but even faster in a mixture of skimmed milk, yeast extract and a low-cost protein hydrolysate from animal by-products. Subsequently, the produced biomass can be encapsulated in biopolymer beads or granules in order to transfer the fungus into an easily applicable form. Therefore, growth as finely dispersed mycelium was promoted by increased media osmolality through the addition of sodium chloride. After the medium had been transferred to a stirred tank bioreactor with a working volume of 8 L, a maximum biomass dry weight of 21 g·L−1 was reached after 48 h. These promising results can pave the way for large-scale fermentation and formulation processes of this novel Pandora species for biological psyllid pest control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemoenzymatic processes have been gaining interest to implement sustainable reaction steps or even create new synthetic routes. In this study, we combined Grubbs' second-generation catalyst with pig liver esterase and conducted a chemoenzymatic one-pot process in a tandem mode. To address sustainability, we encapsulated the catalysts in biopolymer hydrogel beads and conducted the reaction cascade in an aqueous medium. Unfortunately, conducting the process in tandem led to increased side product formation. We then created core-shell beads with catalysts located in different compartments, which notably enhanced the selectivity towards the desired product compared to homogeneously distributing both catalysts within the matrix. Finally, we designed a specific large-sized bead with a diameter of 13.5 mm to increase the diffusion route of the Grubbs' catalyst-containing shell. This design forced the ring-closing metathesis to occur first before the substrate could diffuse into the pig liver esterase-containing core, thus enhancing the selectivity to 75%. This study contributes to addressing reaction-related issues by designing specific immobilisates for chemoenzymatic processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an anhydrobiotic engineering approach aiming at conferring a high degree of desiccation tolerance to the Gram-negative endophyte Kosakonia radicincitans. In particular, pre-conditioning of bacteria under high salinities provides a remarkable positive influence on drying survival. The endophytic bacteria accumulate exogenous hydroxyectoine > 500 µmol g−1 dry weight cells exerted by osmotic stress at 4% NaCl. Microfermentation research demonstrated that hydroxyectoine provides positive effects on reducing the lag phase duration and alleviates the dissolved oxygen consumption under high salinity conditions. Beyond the amassing of hydroxyectoine, this work provides evidence supporting the notion that hydroxyectoine can produce significant changes in the endogenous bacterial metabolome during the exponential growth phase at high-osmolarity. Metabolome changes include alterations on tricarboxylic acid cycle, novo-synthesis of specific intracellular metabolites such as mannitol, myo-inositol and trehalose, and fold changes on amino acids such as l-leucine, l-asparagine, l-serine, l-methionine and l-proline. The significant fold change of l-aspartate suggests a potential acidic proteome at high-osmolarity environments, extending the knowledge of salt-stressed bacterial endophytes. Thus, these findings place the metabolic salt stress response and the hydroxyectoine accumulation by K. radicincitans into a physiological context, paving the way into the interaction between cellular phenotype associated with salt stress tolerance and drying survival capacity of Gram-negative endophytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• K. radicincitans enhance P solubilization responding to osmotic stress and hydroxyectoine. • Hydroxyectoine uptake by K. radicincitans cells can increase the production of acid phosphatases. • Pre-conditioning of K. radicincitans by osmoadaptation improved radish plant yields. • Osmoadaptation and the enrichment with hydroxyectoine increase plant colonisation. • Successful microfermentation of K. radicincitans cells via the BioLector® approach. Gram-negative bacterial endophytes have attracted research interest caused by their advantageous over epiphytic bacteria in plant nutrition and protection. However, research on these typically Gram-negative endophytes has deficiencies concerning the role of cultivation and pre-formulation strategies on further plant colonisation capabilities. Besides, the influence of cultivation conditions and osmotic stress within bacterial endophytes on their phosphate solubilising ability has not yet been addressed. By pre-conditioning cells with an osmoadaptation and a hydroxyectoine accumulation approach, this research aimed at enhancing the capability of the plant growth promoting bacterium Kosakonia radicincitans strain DSM 16656T to both solubilise phosphate and colonise plant seedlings. The results showed that halotolerant bacterial phenotypes increased the root-colonising capability by approximately 3-fold and presented growth-promoting effects in radish plants. Interestingly, findings also demonstrated that salt stress in the culture media along with the accumulation of hydroxyectoine led to an increase in the in vitro phosphate-solubilising ability by affecting the production of acid phosphatases , from 1.24 to 3.34 U mg-1 for non-salt stressed cells and hydroxyectoine-added cells respectively. Thus, this approach provides a useful knowledge upon which the salt stress and compatible solutes in bacteria endophytes can confer phenotypic adaptations to support the eco-physiological performance concerning phosphate-solubilising abilities and endosphere establishment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Finely dispersed fungal mycelium of Hirsutella rhossiliensis effectively parasitizes Heterodera schachtii. • Cellulose-based microcapsules proved to be a suitable delivery system for H. rhossiliensis. • In comparison to free mycelium biocontrol efficacy of encapsulated H. rhossiliensis was significantly increased. • The addition of baker's yeast to the formulation enhanced control efficacy of H. rhossiliensis. Abstract The nematophagous fungus Hirsutella rhossiliensis is a common antagonist of a number of important plant-parasitic nematodes including the beet cyst nematode Heterodera schachtii. Although H. rhossiliensis is highly pathogenic, slow growth characteristics and weak competiveness under field conditions limit its biocontrol potential. Cellulose-based microcapsules were tested for their ability to improve fungal competitiveness in the soil and nematode parasitism. In a first approach microcapsules containing 15% fungal mycelium plus 15% corn gluten and 0.5% yeast extract as additives gave low levels of H. schachtii control. Fungal parasitism was not observed and indicated that nematode mortality was most likely caused by non-specific accumulation of nematicidal compounds associated with decomposition of the additives in the microcapsules. Removal of the corn gluten additive resulted in a minor increase of 20% parasitism of H. schachtii juveniles. Furthermore, the yeast extract that acted as nutrient source for the fungus diffused through the semi-permeable membrane of the capsules during the formulation process and was ineffective. Replacing the corn gluten and yeast extract with 3% autoclaved baker's yeast and using finely dispersed mycelium instead of pelletized mycelium increased juvenile parasitism in the soil up to 90% and decreased number of juveniles per cm root length by over 80%. Cellulose-based microcapsules supplemented with autoclaved baker's yeast, therefore, proved to be an effective delivery system for H. rhossiliensis to control H. schachtii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Replacement of KOH by Tris buffer to adjust the pH of the sol resulted in a short gelation and in transparent hydrogels. • Increased precursor concentrations reduced gelation times, i.e. reduced time until nutrients can be supplied. • Investigated hydrogels exhibit a 10 times lower stiffness than those in previous reports. • Addition of chitosan to the sol improved abrasion resistance. At the same time, a low absorption was maintained. • Entrapped microalga C. reinhardtii remained photosynthetically active and grew in this artificial environment. Abstract In this work, we aimed at improved viability and growth of the microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii in transparent silica hydrogels based on low-ethanol, low-sodium and low-propylamine synthesis. Investigation into replacement of conventional base KOH by buffers dipotassium phosphate and tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane along with increased precursor concentrations yielded an aqueous synthesis route which provided a gelation within 10 min, absorptions below 0.1 and elastic moduli of 0.04–4.23 kPa. The abrasion resistance enhanced by 41% compared to calcium alginate hydrogels and increased to 70–85% residual material on addition of chitosan. Entrapment of microalgae in low-sodium and low-propylamine silica hydrogels maintained the PSII quantum yield above 0.3 and growth rates of 0.23 ± 0.01 d−1, similarly to cells entrapped in calcium alginate. These promising results pave the way for the entrapment of sensitive, photosynthetically active and growing cells for in robust biotechnological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Recent studies indicate the potential of endophytic entomopathogenic fungi to promote plant growth but little is known about the responses of root architecture to fungal endophytism. This study investigates potential adaptations of root architecture upon Metarhizium brunneum endophytism linked to improved plant growth and nutrition.Methods: Plants (Solanum tuberosum L.) were grown in the presence of M. brunneum applied either as non-formulated mycelium or as mycelium containing beads. After 35 days, fungal growth, root endophytism, plant biomass and nutrition as well as root attributes were determined.Results: In response to endophytism promoted by bead application, plant P contents and biomass were significantly increased, while N contents and shoot allocation were also significantly increased in plants from the beads without mycelium group. Bead application resulted in a shift from fine to medium-sized roots and in an increase in the number of root forks, while root diameter, surface area and the number of root tips and crossings were independent of either bead or M. brunneum treatment.Conclusions: M. brunneum containing beads supported endophytism allowing for increases in plant P contents and biomass. However, root architecture was not strongly modulated by M. brunneum endophytism with N provision through bead application being more important than fungal P delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent discovery that entomopathogenic fungi can grow endophytically in plant tissues has spurred research into novel plant protection measures. However, current applications of fungi aiming at endophytism mostly lack targeted formulation strategies resulting in low efficacy. Here, we aimed at enhancing Metarhizium brunneum CB15 endophytism in potato plants by (i) improvement of fungal growth from beads and (ii) cellulase formation or addition to encapsulated mycelium. We found that beads supplemented with cellulose alone or in addition with inactivated baker's yeast exhibited cellulase activity and increased mycelial growth by 12.6 % and 13.6 %, respectively. Higher enzymatic activity achieved by cellulase co-encapsulation promoted a shift from mycelial growth to spore formation with maximum numbers of 2.5 × 10 8 ± 6.1 × 10 7 per bead. This correlated with improved endophytism in potato plants by 61.2 % compared to non-supplemented beads. Our study provides first evidence that customized formulations of fungal entomopathogens with enzymes can improve endophytism and this may increase efficacy in plant protection strategies against herbivorous pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The new species Pandora cacopsyllae Eilenberg, Keller & Humber (Entomophthorales) is described. The fungus was found on infected pear psyllids Cacopsylla pyri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) in a pear orchard in Zealand, Denmark. Morphological structures (conidia, rhizoids, cystidia) were described on the designated type host C. pyri. In addition, conidia from an in vitro culture were described. Pandora cacopsyllae differs from other Pandora species by a) C. pyri is the natural host; b) conidia are different from other Pandora species infecting Psylloidea; c) ITS differs from other Pandora species infecting Hemiptera. The fungus has a high potential for future use in biological control of Cacopsylla pest species as well as other psyllids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae) have recently become an increasing problem as agricultural insect pests due to the phasing out of effective control options. Entomopathogenic fungi such asMetarhizium brunneumhave proven to be a promising microbial antagonist for wireworm control. Here, we tested whether the efficacy ofM. brunneumcan be increased through a combination with CO2, emitted bySaccharomyces cerevisiae,as an attractant (=attract-and-kill). We aimed at a technical scale production of a formulated biological control agent offering a practical and economically feasible application for wireworm control. Therefore, a novel technical formulation process for encapsulatedS. cerevisiae(Attractbeads) andM. brunneum(Killbeads) was investigated. For the bead production by jet cutting, the parameters nozzle diameter, pump speed, cutting device speed and collecting distance were evaluated. In order to dry the beads in a short time while maintaining a high cell viability, different drying temperatures during fluidised-bed drying were tested and the best results were obtained with an inlet air temperature profile between 50°C and 40°C. CO2production of the beads in the soil was highest for co-appliedAttractandKillbeads. The potential of beads to modify wireworm behaviour(Agriotes sputator)was tested in a rhizotron experiment. TheAttract-and-Killtreatment (co-applied beads) significantly attracted wireworms, whereasAttractbeads andKillbeads alone showed a weak, but non-significant attraction. Wireworm mortality could not be enhanced due to a low rate of mycosis fromM. brunneuminfection. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Calcium chloride (CC) is the most common cross-linker for the encapsulation of biocontrol microorganisms in alginate beads. The aim of this study was to evaluate if calcium gluconate (CG) can replace CC as cross-linker and at the same time improve viability after drying and rehydration, hygroscopic properties, shelf life and nutrient supply. Hence, the biocontrol fungi Metarhizium brunneum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were encapsulated in Ca-alginate beads supplemented with starch. Beads were dried and maximum survival was found in beads cross-linked with CG. Beads prepared with CG showed lower hygroscopic properties, but a higher shelf life for encapsulated fungi. Moreover, we demonstrated that gluconate has a nutritive effect on encapsulated fungi, leading to increased mycelium growth of M. brunneum and to enhanced CO2 release from beads containing Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The application of CG as cross-linker will pave the way towards increasing drying survival and shelf life of various, especially drying-sensitive microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since several years it is known that strains of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo-Crivelli) Vuillemin (Ascomycota: Hypocreales) are able to colonize plants as a true endophyte. However, so far no integrated bioprocess engineering approaches have been published where fermentation and formulation strategies are combined to optimize colonization of oilseed rape plant tissues. We therefore aimed at investigating whether and how blastospore (BS) formation can be shifted to resilient submerged conidiospores (SCS) by introducing osmotic stress in different growth phases. When 50 g/L NaCl was added after 48 h to a culture of B. bassiana a yield of 1.4 ± 0.1 × 10 10 SCS/g sucrose in shake flasks and 1.8 ± 0.1 × 10 10 SCS/g sucrose in a stirred tank reactor were obtained. In a bioreactor, 24 h after the addition of NaCl, the formation of BS slowed down, the respiratory quotient decreased and a shift from BS to SCS set in. Following these steps, different formulation strategies, namely encapsulation, film coating and liquid formulation were evaluated. B. bassiana grew out of beads as well as on commercial fungicide-coated seeds. Due to the complete suppression of fungal growth on non-sterile soil, the most suitable option was a foliar application. A liquid formulation consisting of 0.1% Triton X-114, 1% molasses, 1% titanium dioxide and 10 6 spores/mL was applied on leaf tips. After 14 days, the endophyte was detected by PCR and microscopic analysis in the leaves. Further research should focus on formation of SCS and protection of plants colonized by B. bassiana against herbivorous insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel sol–gel synthesis route is reported which results in the formation of optically transparent silica based hydro- and xerogels from an aminosilane precursor in aqueous solutions. These materials can be used for entrapment of microalgae and light-harvesting complex (LHC) samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Novel Schiff bases of N-aryl malemide derivaties were synthesized at acidic pH. • The novelty of this work is the synthesis was performed at mild condition i.e. room temperature than other reports. • The synthesized compound showed good antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus bacteria. • They also showed efficient antifungal activity towards A. niger and C. albicans fungi. • We assume that due to high purity and efficient antimicrobial activity synthesized compounds can be used for different biological applications. A set of new Schiff bases of N-aryl 3- and 4-substituted maleimides has been prepared via condensation of N-aryl 3- and 4- substituted maleimides with p-toluene sulfonyl hydrazide in acidic medium at room temperature. The structures of synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, MS spectral data, and further confirmed by single-crystal x-ray crystallography for 5c. The computational study was carried out using Gaussian 09 software by using the B3LYP/6-311+G(d,p) basis set. Single-crystal study results showed much closeness with computational study results. These novel compounds were screened for their antimicrobial activity against two pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739) and Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC25923) and two pathogenic fungi such as Aspergillus niger (MCIM10231) and Candida albicans (MTCC6275). The investigation of antimicrobial screening data showed that the most of tested compounds are moderate to good microbial inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First report of a broader approach for developing an EPF based tick control agent. • Ca-alginate beads function as microfermenter for Metarhizium spp. blastospores. • Encapsulated blastospores maintained virulence against I. ricinus nymphs. • Most promising Metarhizium spp. isolate for control of I. ricinus was identified. As vectors of pathogens, ticks pose a considerable problem in most parts of the world. Most tick bites in Germany are caused by Ixodes ricinus for which there is no specific scientifically proven control agent available. Although biological control options like entomopathogenic fungi are known, there is a lack of studies on formulation and applicability. This study presents a broad biotechnological approach for the development of an entomopathogenic fungus-based tick control agent, considering virulence and cultivation as well as formulation of fungal isolates. First, five Metarhizium spp. isolates were pre-screened for their virulence against I. ricinus nymphs. Afterwards, three virulent isolates were cultivated on solid medium as well as in submerged cultures. The highest concentrations were obtained with the isolate M. brunneum Ca8II both on solid medium (4.65·107 conidia·cm−2) and in submerged cultures (2.93·107 blastospores·mL−1), whereas M. pemphigi X1c obtained the highest total dry weight (86 g·L−1). Then, blastospores of the isolates were encapsulated in calcium alginate, supporting growth of fungal biomass and ensuring formation of aerial conidia on the surface. The highest concentration was obtained with M. brunneum Cb16II (1.88·107 conidia·bead−1). The highest mortality of I. ricinus nymphs under laboratory conditions, however, was achieved with encapsulated M. pemphigi X1c. Altogether, a promising Metarhizium spp. isolate that fulfills all the required needs was identified. This screening of entomopathogenic fungi has shown that in addition to virulence, cultivation and formulation aspects need to be considered to open up novel attract-and-kill formulation strategies as an option for arthropod pest control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents an abstract of the study 'Thermoelectric Power Studies of a Nd[sub1.82-x]Sr[subx]Ce[sub0.18]CuO[suby] Superconducting System,' by Okram G. Singh, B.D. Padalia, Om Prakash, V.N. Moorthy and Anant V. Narlikar.

Successful commercialization of microbial biocontrol agents, such as Metarhizium spp., is often constrained by poor drying survival and shelf life. Here, we hypothesized that culture age would influence endogenous arabitol, erythritol, mannitol and trehalose contents in M. brunneum mycelium and that elevated levels of these compounds would improve drying survival and shelf life of encapsulated mycelium coupled with enhanced fungal virulence against T. molitor larvae. We found that culture age significantly influenced endogenous arabitol and mannitol contents in mycelium with highest concentrations of 0.6 ± 0.2 and 2.1 ± 0.2 µg/mg after 72 h, respectively. Drying survival of encapsulated mycelium was independent of culture age and polyol content with 41.1 ± 4.4 to 55.0 ± 6.2%. Best shelf life was determined for biomass harvested after 72 h at all investigated storage temperatures with maximum values of 59.5 ± 3.3% at 5 °C followed by 54.5 ± 1.6% at 18 °C and 19.4 ± 1.3% at 25 °C after 6 months. Finally, high fungal virulence against T. molitor larvae of 83.3 ± 7.6 to 98.0 ± 1.8% was maintained during storage of encapsulated mycelium for 12 months with larval mortalities being independent of culture age and polyol content. In conclusion, our findings indicate beneficial effects of endogenous polyols in improving shelf life of encapsulated mycelium and this may spur the successful development of microbial biocontrol agents in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]