bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of a Low Sodium Meal Plan on Blood Pressure in Older Adults: The SOTRUE Randomized Feasibility Trial
Authors: Juraschek Stephen P. , Millar Courtney L. , Foley Abby , Shtivelman Misha , Cohen Alegria , McNally Virginia , Crevatis Robert , Post Stephen M. , Mukamal Kenneth J. , Lipsitz Lewis A. , Cluett Jennifer L. , Davis Roger B. , Sahni Shivani
Published: March 2021

Reduced sodium meal plans are recommended by the Centers of Disease Control to lower blood pressure in older adults; however, this strategy has not been tested in a clinical trial. The Satter House Trial of Reduced Sodium Meals (SOTRUE) was an individual-level, double-blind, randomized controlled pilot study of adults living in a congregate living facility subsidized by the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Adults over age 60 years ate 3 isocaloric meals with two snacks daily for 14 days. The meal plans differed in sodium density (<0.95 vs. >2 mg/kcal), but were equivalent in potassium and macronutrients. Seated systolic BP (SBP) was the primary outcome, while urine sodium-creatinine ratio was used to measure compliance. Twenty participants were randomized (95% women; 95% white; mean age 78 ± 8 years), beginning in 7 October 2019. Retention was 100% with the last participant ending 4 November 2019. Mean baseline SBP changed from 121 to 116 mmHg with the typical sodium diet (−5 mmHg; 95% CI: −18, 8) and from 123 to 112 mmHg with the low sodium diet (−11 mmHg; 95% CI: −15.2, −7.7). Compared to the typical sodium meal plan, the low sodium meal plan lowered SBP by 4.8 mmHg (95% CI: −14.4, 4.9; p = 0.31) and urine sodium-creatinine ratio by 36% (−36.0; 95% CI: −60.3, 3.4; p = 0.07), both non-significant. SOTRUE demonstrates the feasibility of sodium reduction in federally mandated meal plans. A longer and larger study is needed to establish the efficacy and safety of low sodium meals in older adults.
Adherence to Ketogenic and Mediterranean Study Diets in a Crossover Trial: The Keto–Med Randomized Trial
Authors: Landry Matthew J. , Crimarco Anthony , Perelman Dalia , Durand Lindsay R. , Petlura Christina , Aronica Lucia , Robinson Jennifer L. , Kim Sun H. , Gardner Christopher D.
Published: March 2021

Adherence is a critical factor to consider when interpreting study results from randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing one diet to another, but it is frequently not reported by researchers. The purpose of this secondary analysis of the Keto–Med randomized trial was to provide a detailed examination and comparison of the adherence to the two study diets (Well Formulated Ketogenic Diet (WFKD) and Mediterranean Plus (Med-Plus)) under the two conditions: all food being provided (delivered) and all food being obtained by individual participants (self-provided). Diet was assessed at six time points including baseline (×1), week 4 of each phase when participants were receiving food deliveries (×2), week 12 of each phase when participants were preparing and providing food on their own (×2), and 12 weeks after participants completed both diet phases and were free to choose their own diet pattern (×1). The adherence scores for WFKD and Med-Plus were developed specifically for this study. Average adherence to the two diet patterns was very similar during both on-study time points of the intervention. Throughout the study, a wide range of adherence was observed among participants—for both diet types and during both the delivery phase and self-provided phase. Insight from this assessment of adherence may aid other researchers when answering the important question of how to improve behavioral adherence during dietary trials. This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov NCT03810378.
Fruit and Vegetable Intake Assessed by Repeat 24 h Recalls, but Not by A Dietary Screener, Is Associated with Skin Carotenoid Measurements in Children
Authors: Seguin-Fowler Rebecca A. , Hanson Karla L. , Marshall Grace A. , Belarmino Emily H. , Jilcott Pitts Stephanie B. , Kolodinsky Jane , Sitaker Marilyn , Ammerman Alice
Published: March 2021

Accurate measurement of fruit and vegetable (FV) intake is important for nutrition surveillance and evaluation of dietary interventions. We compared two tools for reporting FV intake to objective measurement of skin carotenoids among children. FV cups/day was assessed by repeated 24 h dietary recalls (24H FV) and the National Cancer Institute’s All-Day Fruit and Vegetable Screener (NCI FV). Skin carotenoids were measured by repeated resonance Raman spectroscopy (RRS) of the palm. FV cups were regressed on RRS scores in unadjusted, field-based, and research-setting models with covariates feasible in each scenario. Data were baseline values from children aged 2–12 years in low-income households enrolled in a healthy eating randomized trial in four U.S. states (n = 177). Twenty-four-hour FV cups were associated with skin carotenoids in all models (p < 0.001) but NCI FV cups were not. Predicted RRS scores for discrete 24H FV cups provide a guide to interpretation of RRS in children (2 cups FV intake ~36,000 RRS units), with the research-setting scenario generally providing the narrowest prediction range (+/−1924). When self-reported data are required, 24 h recalls are more accurate than NCI FV screener data; and, when limited time, resources, or literacy must be considered, RRS scores can be quickly obtained and easily interpreted.
Long-Term Caloric Restriction Attenuates β-Amyloid Neuropathology and Is Accompanied by Autophagy in APPswe/PS1delta9 Mice
Authors: Müller Luisa , Power Guerra Nicole , Stenzel Jan , Rühlmann Claire , Lindner Tobias , Krause Bernd J. , Vollmar Brigitte , Teipel Stefan , Kuhla Angela
Published: March 2021

Caloric restriction (CR) slows the aging process, extends lifespan, and exerts neuroprotective effects. It is widely accepted that CR attenuates β-amyloid (Aβ) neuropathology in models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by so-far unknown mechanisms. One promising process induced by CR is autophagy, which is known to degrade aggregated proteins such as amyloids. In addition, autophagy positively regulates glucose uptake and may improve cerebral hypometabolism—a hallmark of AD—and, consequently, neural activity. To evaluate this hypothesis, APPswe/PS1delta9 (tg) mice and their littermates (wild-type, wt) underwent CR for either 16 or 68 weeks. Whereas short-term CR for 16 weeks revealed no noteworthy changes of AD phenotype in tg mice, long-term CR for 68 weeks showed beneficial effects. Thus, cerebral glucose metabolism and neuronal integrity were markedly increased upon 68 weeks CR in tg mice, indicated by an elevated hippocampal fluorodeoxyglucose [18F] ([18F]FDG) uptake and increased N-acetylaspartate-to-creatine ratio using positron emission tomography/computer tomography (PET/CT) imaging and magnet resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Improved neuronal activity and integrity resulted in a better cognitive performance within the Morris Water Maze. Moreover, CR for 68 weeks caused a significant increase of LC3BII and p62 protein expression, showing enhanced autophagy. Additionally, a significant decrease of Aβ plaques in tg mice in the hippocampus was observed, accompanied by reduced microgliosis as indicated by significantly decreased numbers of iba1-positive cells. In summary, long-term CR revealed an overall neuroprotective effect in tg mice. Further, this study shows, for the first time, that CR-induced autophagy in tg mice accompanies the observed attenuation of Aβ pathology.
Docosahexaenoic and Arachidonic Acids as Neuroprotective Nutrients throughout the Life Cycle
Authors: Sambra Verónica , Echeverria Francisca , Valenzuela Alfonso , Chouinard-Watkins Raphaël , Valenzuela Rodrigo
Published: March 2021

The role of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA) in neurogenesis and brain development throughout the life cycle is fundamental. DHA and AA are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) vital for many human physiological processes, such as signaling pathways, gene expression, structure and function of membranes, among others. DHA and AA are deposited into the lipids of cell membranes that form the gray matter representing approximately 25% of the total content of brain fatty acids. Both fatty acids have effects on neuronal growth and differentiation through the modulation of the physical properties of neuronal membranes, signal transduction associated with G proteins, and gene expression. DHA and AA have a relevant role in neuroprotection against neurodegenerative pathologies such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, which are associated with characteristic pathological expressions as mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. The present review analyzes the neuroprotective role of DHA and AA in the extreme stages of life, emphasizing the importance of these LCPUFA during the first year of life and in the developing/prevention of neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging.
Comparison of Indices of Carbohydrate Quality and Food Sources of Dietary Fiber on Longitudinal Changes in Waist Circumference in the Framingham Offspring Cohort
Authors: Sawicki Caleigh M. , Lichtenstein Alice H. , Rogers Gail T. , Jacques Paul F. , Ma Jiantao , Saltzman Edward , McKeown Nicola M.
Published: March 2021

The long-term impact of carbohydrate quality on abdominal weight gain is not fully understood. We aimed to examine the prospective relation of a carbohydrate quality index (CQI; defined by four criteria: dietary fiber, glycemic index, whole grain-to-total grain ratio, and solid-to-total carbohydrate ratio), total, cereal grain, vegetable, and fruit fiber, carbohydrate-to-total fiber ratio, and carbohydrate-to-cereal fiber ratio with changes in waist circumference (WC). Subjects were middle-aged to older, mostly white, participants in the Framingham Offspring cohort (n = 3101 subjects), with mean baseline age 54.9 ± 0.2 years (mean ± SE) and body mass index (BMI) 27.2 ± 0.1 kg/m2. Food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), health, and lifestyle data were collected approximately every four years over a median total follow-up of 18 years. Repeated measure mixed models were used to estimate adjusted mean change in WC per four-year interval across quartiles of carbohydrate variables. In the most adjusted model, a higher CQI was marginally associated with a smaller increase in WC (2.0 ± 0.1 vs. 2.4 ± 0.1 cm in highest vs. lowest quartile, p-trend = 0.04). Higher ratios of carbohydrate-to-fiber and carbohydrate-to-cereal fiber were associated with greater increases in WC per four-year interval (2.6 ± 0.1 vs. 2.0 ± 0.1 cm, p-trend < 0.001, and 2.5 ± 0.1 vs. 2.1 ± 0.1 cm in highest versus lowest categories, p-trend = 0.007, respectively); whereas higher intake of total fiber (1.8 ± 0.1 vs. 2.7 ± 0.1 cm, p-trend < 0.001), cereal fiber (2.0 ± 0.1 vs. 2.5 ± 0.1 cm, p-trend = 0.001), and fruit fiber (2.0 ± 0.1 vs. 2.7 ± 0.1 cm, p-trend < 0.001) were associated with smaller increases in WC compared to lower intakes. There was a significant interaction between total fiber and total carbohydrate (as % of total energy intake). After stratification, the association between fiber intake and change in WC was not maintained in the context of a high carbohydrate diet. Better carbohydrate quality, primarily higher fiber intake and lower carbohydrate-to-fiber ratios, may help attenuate increases in abdominal adiposity over time.
Effect of Neonicotinoid Exposure on the Life History Traits and Susceptibility to Plasmodium Infection on the Major Avian Malaria Vector Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Pigeault Romain , Bataillard Danaé , Glaizot Olivier , Christe Philippe
Published: March 2021

Culex pipiens complexes play an important role in the transmission of a wide range of pathogens that infect humans, including viruses and filarial worms, as well as pathogens of wildlife, such as the avian malaria parasite (Plasmodium spp.). Numerous biotic and abiotic stresses influence vector-borne pathogen transmission directly, through changes in vector density, or indirectly by changing vector immunocompetence, lifespan, or reproductive potential. Among these stresses, mosquito exposure to sublethal doses of pesticides could have important consequences. In addition to being exposed to pollutants in aquatic breeding sites, mosquitoes can also be exposed to chemicals as adults through their diet (plant nectar). In this study, we explored the impact of mosquito exposure at the larval and adult stages to one of the most commonly used pesticides, imidacloprid, a chemical belonging to the class of the neonicotinoids, on a set of life history traits ranging from development time to fecundity. We also studied the impact of this pesticide on the susceptibility of mosquitoes to infection by the avian malaria parasite, Plasmodium relictum. Surprisingly, we observed no effects of imidacloprid on any of the parameters examined. This result highlights the fact that Culex pipiens mosquitoes do not appear to be susceptible to imidacloprid when exposure doses are close to those measured in the field.
Exposure of Domestic Cats to Three Zoonotic Bartonella Species in the United States
Authors: Osikowicz Lynn M. , Horiuchi Kalanthe , Goodrich Irina , Breitschwerdt Edward B. , Chomel Bruno , Biggerstaff Brad J. , Kosoy Michael
Published: March 2021

Cat-associated Bartonella species, which include B. henselae, B. koehlerae, and B. clarridgeiae, can cause mild to severe illness in humans. In the present study, we evaluated 1362 serum samples obtained from domestic cats across the U.S. for seroreactivity against three species and two strain types of Bartonella associated with cats (B. henselae type 1, B. henselae type 2, B. koehlerae, and B. clarridgeiae) using an indirect immunofluorescent assay (IFA). Overall, the seroprevalence at the cutoff titer level of ≥1:64 was 23.1%. Seroreactivity was 11.1% and 3.7% at the titer level cutoff of ≥1:128 and at the cutoff of ≥1:256, respectively. The highest observation of seroreactivity occurred in the East South-Central, South Atlantic, West North-Central, and West South-Central regions. The lowest seroreactivity was detected in the East North-Central, Middle Atlantic, Mountain, New England, and Pacific regions. We observed reactivity against all four Bartonella spp. antigens in samples from eight out of the nine U.S. geographic regions.
Ross River Virus Infection: A Cross-Disciplinary Review with a Veterinary Perspective
Authors: Yuen Ka Y. , Bielefeldt-Ohmann Helle
Published: March 2021

Ross River virus (RRV) has recently been suggested to be a potential emerging infectious disease worldwide. RRV infection remains the most common human arboviral disease in Australia, with a yearly estimated economic cost of $4.3 billion. Infection in humans and horses can cause chronic, long-term debilitating arthritogenic illnesses. However, current knowledge of immunopathogenesis remains to be elucidated and is mainly inferred from a murine model that only partially resembles clinical signs and pathology in human and horses. The epidemiology of RRV transmission is complex and multifactorial and is further complicated by climate change, making predictive models difficult to design. Establishing an equine model for RRV may allow better characterization of RRV disease pathogenesis and immunology in humans and horses, and could potentially be used for other infectious diseases. While there are no approved therapeutics or registered vaccines to treat or prevent RRV infection, clinical trials of various potential drugs and vaccines are currently underway. In the future, the RRV disease dynamic is likely to shift into temperate areas of Australia with longer active months of infection. Here, we (1) review the current knowledge of RRV infection, epidemiology, diagnostics, and therapeutics in both humans and horses; (2) identify and discuss major research gaps that warrant further research.
Isolation and Description of Catonella massiliensis sp. nov., a Novel Catonella Species, Isolated from a Stable Periodontitis Subject
Authors: Antezack Angéline , Boxberger Manon , La Scola Bernard , Monnet-Corti Virginie
Published: March 2021

The genus Catonella currently counts a unique species, C. morbi, isolated from periodontal pockets and associated with periodontitis and endodontic infections. This study contributed to the taxonomical and clinical knowledge of this genus by describing a novel species isolated from a saliva sample from a man in clinical gingival health following successful treatment of periodontitis. Morphological and chemotaxonomic characteristics were investigated using different growth conditions, pH, and temperature. Cellular fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis was conducted by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA, orthologous average nucleotide identity (OrthoANI), and digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) relatedness were performed. Strain Marseille-Q4567T was found to be an anaerobic and non-spore-forming rod-shaped bacterium that grew at 28–41.5 °C (optimum 37 °C), pH 6.5–8.5 (optimum pH 7.5), and 5–10 g/L of NaCl (optimum 5 g/L). The predominant cellular fatty acid was C16:0 (64.2%), followed by unsaturated structures C18:1n9 (12.5%) and C18:2n6 (7.8%). Based on 16S rRNA sequence comparison, the closest phylogenetic neighbor was C. morbi ATCC 51271T (98.23% similarity). The OrthoANI and dDDH values between strain Q4567T and C. morbi ATCC 51271T were respectively 79.43% and 23.8%. Therefore, we concluded that strain Marseille-Q4567T represents a novel species of the genus Catonella, for which the name Catonella massiliensis sp. nov. is proposed (= CSUR Q4567).
Structure-Based Virtual Screening and De Novo Design of PIM1 Inhibitors with Anticancer Activity from Natural Products
Authors: Park Hwangseo , Jeon Jinwon , Kim Kewon , Choi Soyeon , Hong Sungwoo
Published: March 2021

Background: the proviral insertion site of Moloney murine leukemia (PIM) 1 kinase has served as a therapeutic target for various human cancers due to the enhancement of cell proliferation and the inhibition of apoptosis. Methods: to identify effective PIM1 kinase inhibitors, structure-based virtual screening of natural products of plant origin and de novo design were carried out using the protein–ligand binding free energy function improved by introducing an adequate dehydration energy term. Results: as a consequence of subsequent enzyme inhibition assays, four classes of PIM1 kinase inhibitors were discovered, with the biochemical potency ranging from low-micromolar to sub-micromolar levels. The results of extensive docking simulations showed that the inhibitory activity stemmed from the formation of multiple hydrogen bonds in combination with hydrophobic interactions in the ATP-binding site. Optimization of the biochemical potency by chemical modifications of the 2-benzylidenebenzofuran-3(2H)-one scaffold led to the discovery of several nanomolar inhibitors with antiproliferative activities against human breast cancer cell lines. Conclusions: these new PIM1 kinase inhibitors are anticipated to serve as a new starting point for the development of anticancer medicine.
Analytical Characterization of an Inulin-Type Fructooligosaccharide from Root-Tubers of Asphodelusramosus L
Authors: Madia Valentina Noemi , De Vita Daniela , Messore Antonella , Toniolo Chiara , Tudino Valeria , De Leo Alessandro , Pindinello Ivano , Ialongo Davide , Saccoliti Francesco , D’Ursi Anna Maria , Grimaldi Manuela , Ceccobelli Pietro , Scipione Luigi , Di Santo Roberto , Costi Roberta
Published: March 2021

Plant-based systems continue to play a pivotal role in healthcare, and their use has been extensively documented. Asphodelus L. is a genus comprising various herbaceous species, known by the trivial name Asphodelus. These plants have been known since antiquity for both food and therapeutic uses, especially for treating several diseases associated with inflammatory and infectious skin disorders. Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of different constituents, mainly anthraquinones, triterpenoids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. Although extensive literature has been published on these constituents, a paucity of information has been reported regarding the carbohydrate composition, such as fructans and fructan-like derivatives. The extraction of water-soluble neutral polysaccharides is commonly performed using water extraction, at times assisted by microwaves and ultrasounds. Herein, we reported the investigation of the alkaline extraction of root-tubers of Asphodelus ramosus L., analyzing the water-soluble polysaccharides obtained by precipitation from the alkaline extract and its subsequent purification by chromatography. A polysaccharide was isolated by alkaline extraction; the HPTLC study to determine its composition showed fructose as the main monosaccharide. FT-IR analysis showed the presence of an inulin-type structure, and NMR analyses allowed us to conclude that A. ramosus roots contain polysaccharide with an inulin-type fructooligosaccharide with a degree of polymerization of 7–8.
A Novel Polymer Insect Repellent Conjugate for Extended Release and Decreased Skin Permeation of Para-Menthane-3,8-Diol
Authors: Shah Sayyed I. , Khutoryanskiy Vitaliy V. , Williams Adrian C.
Published: March 2021

Background: We developed a novel polymer insect repellent conjugate for extended release and decreased skin permeation of the volatile insect repellent p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD). Methods: PMD was conjugated with acryloyl chloride via an ester bond to form acryloyl–PMD, which was subsequently copolymerised with acrylic acid at varying molar ratios. Copolymer structures were characterised by 1H NMR and FT-IR, analysed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), molecular weights and reactivity ratios determined, and repellent loading assessed. Results: Using porcine liver esterases, ~45% of the insect repellent was released over five days. Penetration and permeation studies of the copolymer and free repellent using excised, full-thickness porcine ear skin showed no detectable permeation of the copolymer through skin compared to the PMD. Moreover, tape stripping revealed that over 90% of the copolymer remained on the outer surface of the skin, whereas free PMD was within all skin layers. A planarian toxicity fluorescence assay indicated that that the copolymer is unlikely to be a significant irritant when applied topically. Conclusions: this study demonstrates the feasibility of the copolymer approach to develop extended-release insect repellents while reducing skin uptake and transdermal permeation of the small-molecular-weight active ingredient, in order to minimise any adverse effects.
Systematic Performance Comparison of (Duobinary)-PAM-2,4 Signaling under Light and Strong Opto-Electronic Bandwidth Conditions
Authors: Gutiérrez-Castrejón Ramón , Saber Md Ghulam , Alam Md Samiul , Xing Zhenping , El-Fiky Eslam , Ceballos-Herrera Daniel E. , Cavaliere Fabio , Vall-Llosera Gemma , Giorgi Luca , Lessard Stephane , Brunner Robert , Plant David V.
Published: March 2021

We present a systematic comparison of PAM-2 (NRZ), Duobinary-PAM-2, PAM-4, and Duobinary-PAM-4 (duo-quaternary) signaling in the context of short-reach photonic communications systems using a Mach–Zehnder modulator as transmitter. The effect on system performance with a relaxed and constrained system’s opto-electronic bandwidth is analyzed for bit rates ranging from 20 to 116 Gb/s. In contrast to previous analyses, our approach employs the same experimental and simulation conditions for all modulation formats. Consequently, we were able to confidently determine the performance limits of each format for particular values of bit rate, system bandwidth, transmitter chirp, and fiber dispersion. We demonstrate that Duobinary-PAM-4 is a good signaling choice only for bandwidth-limited systems operating at relatively high speed. Otherwise, PAM-4 represents a more sensible choice. Moreover, our analysis put forward the existence of transition points: specific bit rate values where the BER versus bit rate curves for two different formats cross each other. They indicate the bit rate values where, for specific system conditions, switching from one modulation to another guarantees optimum performance. Their existence naturally led to the proposal of a format-selective transceiver, a component that, according to network conditions, operates with the most adequate modulation format. Since all analyzed modulations share similar implementation details, signaling switching is achieved by simply changing the sampling point and threshold count at the receiver, bringing flexibility to IM/DD-based optical networks.
Propagation of a Modified Complex Lorentz–Gaussian-Correlated Beam in a Marine Atmosphere
Authors: Sun Baoyin , Lü Han , Wu Dan , Wang Fei , Cai Yangjian
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we study the second-order statistics of a modified complex Lorentz–Gaussian-correlated (MCLGC) beam, which is a new type of partially coherent beam capable of producing an Airy-like intensity pattern in the far field, propagation through marine atmospheric turbulence. The propagation formula of spectral density is derived by the extended Huygens–Fresnel integral, which could explicitly indicate the interaction of turbulence on the beams’ spectral density under propagation. The influences of the structure constant of the turbulence, initial coherence width and wavelength on the spectral density are investigated in detail through numerical examples. In addition, analytical expressions for the r.m.s beam width, divergence angle and M2 factor of the MCLGC beam in the marine turbulence are also derived with the help of the Wigner distribution function. The results reveal that the beam spreads much faster, and the M2 factor deteriorates severely with the increase of the structure constant and the decrease of the inner scale size, whereas the outer scale size has little effect on these two quantities.
Metabolome-Wide, Phylogenetically Controlled Comparison Indicates Higher Phenolic Diversity in Tropical Tree Species
Authors: Peguero Guille , Gargallo-Garriga Albert , Maspons Joan , Klem Karel , Urban Otmar , Sardans Jordi , Peñuelas Josep
Published: March 2021

Tropical plants are expected to have a higher variety of defensive traits, such as a more diverse array of secondary metabolic compounds in response to greater pressures of antagonistic interactions, than their temperate counterparts. We test this hypothesis using advanced metabolomics linked to a novel stoichiometric compound classification to analyze the complete foliar metabolomes of four tropical and four temperate tree species, which were selected so that each subset contained the same amount of phylogenetic diversity and evenness. We then built Bayesian phylogenetic multilevel models to test for tropical–temperate differences in metabolite diversity for the entire metabolome and for four major families of secondary compounds. We found strong evidence supporting that the leaves of tropical tree species have a higher phenolic diversity. The functionally closer group of polyphenolics also showed moderate evidence of higher diversity in tropical species, but there were no differences either for the entire metabolome or for the other major families of compounds analyzed. This supports the interpretation that this tropical–temperate contrast must be related to the functional role of phenolics and polyphenolics.
Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals Marker–Trait Associations for Early Vegetative Stage Salinity Tolerance in Rice
Authors: Yadav Ashutosh Kumar , Kumar Aruna , Grover Nitasha , Ellur Ranjith Kumar , Bollinedi Haritha , Krishnan Subbaiyan Gopala , Bhowmick Prolay Kumar , Vinod Kunnummal Kurungara , Nagarajan Mariappan , Singh Ashok Kumar
Published: March 2021

Rice germplasm is a rich resource for discovering genes associated with salt tolerance. In the current study, a set of 96 accessions were evaluated for seedling stage salinity tolerance and its component traits. Significant phenotypic variation was observed among the genotypes for all the measured traits and eleven accessions with high level of salt tolerance at seedling stage were identified. The germplasm set comprised of three sub-populations and genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified a total of 23 marker–trait associations (MTAs) for traits studied. These MTAs were located on rice chromosomes 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 12 and explained the trait phenotypic variances ranging from 13.98 to 29.88 %. Twenty-one MTAs identified in this study were located either in or near the previously reported quantitative trait loci (QTLs), while two MTAs namely, qSDW2.1 and qSNC5 were novel. A total of 18 and 13 putative annotated candidate genes were identified in a genomic region spanning ~200 kb around the MTAs qSDW2.1 and qSNC5, respectively. Some of the important genes underlying the novel MTAs were OsFBA1,OsFBL7, and mTERF which are known to be associated with salinity tolerance in crops. These MTAs pave way for combining salinity tolerance with high yield in rice genotypes through molecular breeding.
Is Every Wild Species a Rich Source of Disease Resistance? Avena fatua L.—Potential Donor of Resistance to Powdery Mildew
Authors: Okoń Sylwia , Ociepa Tomasz , Nucia Aleksandra , Cieplak Magdalena , Kowalczyk Krzysztof
Published: March 2021

Identifying effective sources of disease resistance is an important aspect of an effective plant protection strategy. Wild species related to cultivars constitute a rich reservoir of resistance genes. Studies conducted in oat have shown that wild species are donors of resistance genes to crown and stem rust, powdery mildew or fusarium head blight. The aim of the present study was to prove whether A. fatua could be a source of effective resistance genes to powdery mildew. This species is widespread all over the world due to its very good adaptability and can be regarded as a potential source of resistance to fungal diseases, including powdery mildew. The conducted research has shown that A. fatua is a species with a low level of resistance to powdery mildew when compared to other wild species of the genus Avena L. A total of 251 accessions were evaluated, and only 23 were identified as resistant to the individual isolates used in the host-pathogen tests. It follows that resistance to powdery mildew is not common among wild Avena species, and its good environmental adaptation is not associated to resistance to powdery mildew.
Dose–Effect Relationship of Water Salinity Levels on Osmotic Regulators, Nutrient Uptake, and Growth of Transplanting Vetiver [Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash]
Authors: Su Jing , Qiu Yanhua , Yang Xiaosong , Li Songyan , Hu Zhengyi
Published: March 2021

Vetiver grass [Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash] without seeds, suitable for growing on coastal saline land, has attracted attention because of oil extraction from its roots and industrial and agricultural use. In this study, a pot experiment with different NaCl contents was used to investigate the influence of water salinity levels on vetiver, salt tolerance, and the feasibility of transferring it to coastal saline regions. The results indicated that the fresh weight of roots and shoots increased initially and then gradually decreased with an increase in NaCl content, and the maximum was attributed to a water salinity of 0.3%. The vetiver can tolerate a maximum saline content of up to 2%. The promotion of vetiver growth under water salinity could be attributed to the acceleration of nutrient uptake-induced saline, including K, N, and Cl. The growth of vetiver was insignificantly inhibited with 0.5% water salinity (mild stress), significantly inhibited with 1.0% water salinity (moderate stress: biomass decrease), and severe inhibited with >1.5% water salinity (intense stress: biomass decrease). The salt tolerance of vetiver was due to osmotic regulation by reducing sugars under mild stress and of proline under intense stress, and Na+ sequestration in roots and the transformation of Cl− away from sensitive roots. The vetiver could be cultivated in slightly coastal saline soil (0.1–0.2% soil salinity) and even moderately saline coastal soil (0.2–0.4% soil salinity) under irrigation with low salt water during transplanting.
Different Cannabis sativa Extraction Methods Result in Different Biological Activities against a Colon Cancer Cell Line and Healthy Colon Cells
Authors: Rožanc Jan , Kotnik Petra , Milojević Marko , Gradišnik Lidija , Knez Hrnčič Maša , Knez Željko , Maver Uroš
Published: March 2021

Cannabis sativa is one of the oldest medicinal plants used by humans, containing hundreds of bioactive compounds. The biological effects and interplay of these compounds are far from fully understood, although the plant’s therapeutic effects are beyond doubt. Extraction methods for these compounds are becoming an integral part of modern Cannabis-based medicine. Still, little is known about how different methods affect the final composition of Cannabis extracts and thus, their therapeutic effects. In this study, different extraction methods were tested, namely maceration, Soxhlet, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), and supercritical CO2 extraction methods. The obtained extracts were evaluated for their cannabinoid content, antioxidant properties, and in vitro bioactivity on human colon cancer and healthy colon cells. Our data suggest that Cannabis extracts, when properly prepared, can significantly decrease cancer cell viability while protecting healthy cells from cytotoxic effects. However, post-processing of extracts poses a significant limitation in predicting therapeutic response based on the composition of the crude extract, as it affects not only the actual amounts of the respective cannabinoids but also their relative ratio to the primary extracts. These effects must be carefully considered in the future preparations of new therapeutic extracts.
Current Perspectives on Taxanes: Focus on Their Bioactivity, Delivery and Combination Therapy
Authors: Škubník Jan , Pavlíčková Vladimíra , Ruml Tomáš , Rimpelová Silvie
Published: March 2021

Taxanes, mainly paclitaxel and docetaxel, the microtubule stabilizers, have been well known for being the first-line therapy for breast cancer for more than the last thirty years. Moreover, they have been also used for the treatment of ovarian, hormone-refractory prostate, head and neck, and non-small cell lung carcinomas. Even though paclitaxel and docetaxel significantly enhance the overall survival rate of cancer patients, there are some limitations of their use, such as very poor water solubility and the occurrence of severe side effects. However, this is what pushes the research on these microtubule-stabilizing agents further and yields novel taxane derivatives with significantly improved properties. Therefore, this review article brings recent advances reported in taxane research mainly in the last two years. We focused especially on recent methods of taxane isolation, their mechanism of action, development of their novel derivatives, formulations, and improved tumor-targeted drug delivery. Since cancer cell chemoresistance can be an unsurpassable hurdle in taxane administration, a significant part of this review article has been also devoted to combination therapy of taxanes in cancer treatment. Last but not least, we summarize ongoing clinical trials on these compounds and bring a perspective of advancements in this field.
Co-Inoculation of Mesorhizobium ciceri with Either Bacillus sp. or Enterobacter aerogenes on Chickpea Improves Growth and Productivity in Phosphate-Deficient Soils in Dry Areas of a Mediterranean Region
Authors: Benjelloun Imane , Thami Alami Imane , El Khadir Mohamed , Douira Allal , Udupa Sripada M.
Published: March 2021

Biological nitrogen fixation requires a large amount of phosphorus (P). However, most of the soils are P-deficient and the extensive use of P- chemical fertilizers constitute a serious threat to the environment. In this context, two field experiments were carried out to investigate the effect of co-inoculation of Mesorhizobium ciceri with phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB), Bacillus sp., and Enterobacter aerogenes, on chickpea as an alternative to chemical nitrogen (N) and phosphorous fertilizers in P-deficient soils in dry areas of Morocco. The results revealed that combined inoculation of chickpea with rhizobia and PSB showed a significant enhancement of chickpea nodulation, biomass production, yields and N, P, and protein content in grains as compared to single inoculation or single application of N or P. A significantly higher increase was obtained by inoculating chickpea with Mesorhizobium sp. MA72 combined with E. aerogenes P1S6. This combination allowed an enhancement of more than 270% in nodulation, 192% in shoot dry weight and 242% in grain yield. The effect of this combination was equivalent to the effect of combined application of N and P fertilizers. Formulation of biofertilizers based on tasted strains could be used for chickpea co-inoculation in P-deficient soils for an eco-friendly sustainable production of chickpea.
QTL Analysis of Adult Plant Resistance to Stripe Rust in a Winter Wheat Recombinant Inbred Population
Authors: Brandt Kali M. , Chen Xianming , Tabima Javier F. , See Deven R. , Vining Kelly J. , Zemetra Robert S.
Published: March 2021

Stripe rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, is a worldwide disease of wheat that causes devastating crop losses. Resistant cultivars have been developed over the last 40 years that have significantly reduced the economic impact of the disease on growers, but in heavy infection years it is mostly controlled through the intensive application of fungicides. The Pacific Northwest of the United States has an ideal climate for stripe rust and has one of the most diverse race compositions in the country. This has resulted in many waves of epidemics that have overcome most of the resistance genes traditionally used in elite germplasm. The best way to prevent high yield losses, reduce production costs to growers, and reduce the heavy application of fungicides is to pyramid multiple stripe rust resistance genes into new cultivars. Using genotyping-by-sequencing, we identified 4662 high quality variant positions in a recombinant inbred line population of 196 individuals derived from a cross between Skiles, a highly resistant winter wheat cultivar, and Goetze, a moderately to highly susceptible winter wheat cultivar, both developed at Oregon State University. A subsequent genome wide association study identified two quantitative trait loci (QTL) on chromosomes 3B and 3D within the predicted locations of stripe rust resistance genes. Resistance QTL, when combined together, conferred high levels of stripe rust resistance above the level of Skiles in some locations, indicating that these QTL would be important additions to future breeding efforts of Pacific Northwest winter wheat cultivars.
Tolerance Even to Lethal Strain of Potato Spindle Tuber Viroid Found in Wild Tomato Species Can Be Introduced by Crossing
Authors: Naoi Takashi , Hataya Tatsuji
Published: March 2021

To date, natural resistance or tolerance, which can be introduced into crops by crossing, to potato spindle tuber viroid (PSTVd) has not been reported. Additionally, responses to PSTVd infection in many wild tomato species, including some species that can be crossed with PSTVd-susceptible cultivated tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum var. lycoperaicum), have not been ascertained. The aim of this study was to evaluate responses to PSTVd infection including resistance and tolerance. Accordingly, we inoculated several cultivated and wild tomato species with intermediate and lethal strains of PSTVd. None of the host plants exhibited sufficient resistance to PSTVd to render systemic infection impossible; however, these plants displayed other responses, including tolerance. Further analysis of PSTVd accumulation revealed low accumulation of PSTVd in two wild species, exhibiting high tolerance, even to the lethal strain. Additionally, F1 hybrids generated by crossing a PSTVd-sensitive wild tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) with these wild relatives also exhibited tolerance to the lethal PSTVd strain, which is accompanied by low PSTVd accumulation during early infection. These results indicate that the tolerance toward PSTVd in wild species is a dominant trait and can be utilized for tomato breeding by crossing.
Quality Evaluation, Storage Stability, and Sensory Characteristics of Wheat Noodles Incorporated with Isomaltodextrin
Authors: Huang Da-Wei , Chan Yung-Jia , Huang Yuan-Chao , Chang Ya-Ju , Tsai Jen-Chieh , Mulio Amanda Tresiliana , Wu Zong-Ru , Hou Ya-Wen , Lu Wen-Chien , Li Po-Hsien
Published: March 2021

Wheat noodles incorporated with isomaltodextrin were assessed in relation to physicochemical properties (color), microstructure features, biochemical composition (fiber profile), cooking properties, textural attributes, and sensory evaluations during different storage temperatures (25, 4, −20 °C) and periods (0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24 months). Meanwhile, an accelerated study was also carried out at 40 °C storage conditions for 12 months to evaluate the fiber profile changes. Under different conditions, the overall quality of both raw and cooked noodle samples depended slightly on both the type and amount of added fiber isomaltodextrin, resistant starch (RS), insoluble high-molecular-weight dietary fiber (IHMWDF), and soluble high-molecular-weight dietary fiber (SHMWDF). However, this significantly changed for the fiber profile under 40 °C of storage for 12 months. Cooking quality, fiber profile, and color parameter did not differ by storage at −20 °C after 24 months than at 0 months, and noodles only slightly differed in texture and sensory characteristics. On sensory analysis, noodle samples were acceptable by panelists, with an acceptability score >5. In short, storage temperature is one of the most important factors in preserving food stability and retail properties. Isomaltodextrin noodles samples should be stored at low temperature to preserve the product functionality.
Greek Tulips: Worldwide Electronic Trade over the Internet, Global Ex Situ Conservation and Current Sustainable Exploitation Challenges
Authors: Krigas Nikos , Lykas Christos , Ipsilantis Ioannis , Matsi Theodora , Weststrand Stina , Havström Mats , Tsoktouridis Georgios
Published: March 2021

From an ornamental viewpoint, tulips are famous clonally propagated crops. This research focuses on 15 wild-growing Greek tulip species including 11 range-restricted species, i.e., six Greek endemics and five Balkan or Aegean endemics and subendemics, among which seven are currently threatened with extinction (two Critically Endangered, three Endangered and two Vulnerable). An overview of the global electronic trade over the internet is presented herein for these valuable phytogenetic resources in an attempt to define the extent of their commercialization (25 nurseries in three countries, mainly bulb trade at various prices) with concomitant conservation implications. In the frame of the repatriation initiatives launched, their global ex situ conservation is overviewed according to the PlantSearch facility of the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (materials from 15 species stored in 41 botanic gardens of 14 countries). The results of this study on the Greek tulips showed that there are both well-established value chains and gaps in the market regarding the “botanical tulips”; revealed the compromised effectiveness of ex situ conservation for the majority of them; raised conservation concerns related to authorized access to these wild phytogenetic resources; and indicated that their future utilization should comply with the provision of national and international legislation. All these are envisaged and discussed within the framework of the newly launched research project TULIPS.GR which aims to be the pilot establishment of a national collection regarding all Greek tulips (currently holding 38 accessions of 13 species, including almost all of the threatened ones). The project’s scope is to enable the creation of a sustainable value chain for the Greek tulips with authorized collections, sustainable conservation schemes, production of DNA barcoded propagation material, species-specific propagation and cultivation protocols, mycorrhizal investigations, field studies, applying innovative precise soil/foliar fertigation, and investigation of the postharvest treatment of fresh cut flowers, promoting networking and synergies with producers and associations in Greece and abroad.
Paphiopedilum insigne Morphological and Physiological Features during In Vitro Rooting and Ex Vitro Acclimatization Depending on the Types of Auxin and Substrate
Authors: Poniewozik Monika , Parzymies Marzena , Szot Paweł , Rubinowska Katarzyna
Published: March 2021

To obtain healthy and good quality plants from in vitro cultivation, it is necessary to produce plantlets with well-developed rooting systems because they must undergo acclimatization, a final and a very difficult stage of micropropagation. In the present research, the effect of auxins NAA, IAA and IBA in concentrations of 0.5; 1; 2.5 and 5 mg·dm−3 on the Paphiopediluminsigne in vitro rooting was studied, and it was noted that 1 mg·dm−3 of IAA or IBA enabled the obtaining of a lot of rooted and good quality plantlets. The subsequent influence of the two most advantageous auxins on the acclimatization of plantlets in different substrates (sphagnum moss, sphagnum moss + substrate for orchids, substrate for orchids, substrate for orchids + acid peat) was tested, in the means of morphological features of plants and their physiological parameters, i.e., chlorophyll fluorescence (FV, Fm, Fv/Fm), stress enzyme activity (catalase, ascorbate peroxidase), and water balance. Considering all the tested features, it might be stated that the best results were obtained when explants were rooted in vitro in the presence of 1 mg·dm−3 of IAA and then planted ex vitro in substrate for orchids.
Tracking of Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticle Effects on Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Plant Growth, Pigments, Mineral Content and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Colonization
Authors: Abdelhameed Reda , Abu-Elsaad Nagwa , Abdel Latef Arafat , Metwally Rabab
Published: March 2021

Important gaps in knowledge remain regarding the potential of nanoparticles (NPs) for plants, particularly the existence of helpful microorganisms, for instance, arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi present in the soil. Hence, more profound studies are required to distinguish the impact of NPs on plant growth inoculated with AM fungi and their role in NP uptake to develop smart nanotechnology implementations in crop improvement. Zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4) NPs are prepared via the citrate technique and defined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) as well as transmission electron microscopy for several physical properties. The analysis of the XRD pattern confirmed the creation of a nanocrystalline structure with a crystallite size equal to 25.4 nm. The effects of ZnFe2O4 NP on AM fungi, growth and pigment content as well as nutrient uptake of pea (Pisum sativum) plants were assessed. ZnFe2O4 NP application caused a slight decrease in root colonization. However, its application showed an augmentation of 74.36% and 91.89% in AM pea plant shoots and roots’ fresh weights, respectively, compared to the control. Moreover, the synthesized ZnFe2O4 NP uptake by plant roots and their contents were enhanced by AM fungi. These findings suggest the safe use of ZnFe2O4 NPs in nano-agricultural applications for plant development with AM fungi.