bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applicability of RPMI 2650 and Calu-3 Cell Models for Evaluation of Nasal Formulations
Authors: Sibinovska Nadica , Žakelj Simon , Trontelj Jurij , Kristan Katja
Published: February 2022

The RPMI 2650 and Calu-3 cell lines have been previously evaluated as models of the nasal and airway epithelial barrier, and they have demonstrated the potential to be used in drug permeation studies. However, limited data exist on the utilization of these two cell models for the assessment of nasal formulations. In our study, we tested these cell lines for the evaluation of in vitro permeation of intranasally administered drugs having a local and systemic effect from different solution- and suspension-based formulations to observe how the effects of formulations reflect on the measured in vitro drug permeability. Both models were shown to be sufficiently discriminative and able to reveal the effect of formulation compositions on drug permeability, as they demonstrated differences in the in vitro drug permeation comparable to the in vivo bioavailability. Good correlation with the available bioavailability data was also established for a limited number of drugs formulated as intranasal solutions. The investigated cell lines can be applied to the evaluation of in vitro permeation of intranasally administered drugs with a local and systemic effect from solution- and suspension-based formulations.
Sodium Valproate Incompatibility with Parenteral Nutrition Admixtures—A Risk to Patient Safety: An In Vitro Evaluation Study
Authors: Piwowarczyk Ludwika , Tomczak Szymon , Antkowiak Patryk , Jelińska Anna , Stawny Maciej
Published: February 2022

Epilepsy is defined as a group of concerning problems related to the nervous system; its defining feature is a predisposition to epileptic seizures. The frequency of seizures in intensive care units (ICU) ranges from 3.3% to 34%, and ICU antiepileptic treatment is routine practice. The administration of drugs through the same infusion line is not recommended but is common clinical practice, especially in ICU. Incompatibilities between parenteral drugs and between drugs and parenteral nutrition admixtures (PNAs) are common medical errors and pose risks to patient safety. The co-administration of drugs must always be confirmed and clearly defined. The simultaneous infusion of sodium valproate (VPA, drug used to treat seizures and epilepsy) with parenteral PNAs has not yet been studied. During the experiment reported in this study, a visual control, pH, osmolality, zeta potential, particle size, polydispersity index, and turbidity were measured. The conducted research shows that the lipid emulsion composition has a significant influence on drug–PN (drug–parenteral nutrition) compatibility. The acceptance criteria were met only for PNs containing omega-3-acid-triglycerides (Omegaflex special and peri). The second fraction of particles above 1000 nm was observed for most of the tested PNAs (Lipoflex special, Lipoflex peri, Kabiven, SmofKabiven, Kabiven Peripheral, and Olimel Peri N4E), which disqualifies their simultaneous administration with VPA.
Stability Indices to Deciphering the Genotype-by-Environment Interaction (GEI) Effect: An Applicable Review for Use in Plant Breeding Programs
Authors: Pour-Aboughadareh Alireza , Khalili Marouf , Poczai Peter , Olivoto Tiago
Published: February 2022

Experiments measuring the interaction between genotypes and environments measure the spatial (e.g., locations) and temporal (e.g., years) separation and/or combination of these factors. The genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) is very important in plant breeding programs. Over the past six decades, the propensity to model the GEI led to the development of several models and mathematical methods for deciphering GEI in multi-environmental trials (METs) called “stability analyses”. However, its size is hidden by the contribution of improved management in the yield increase, and for this reason comparisons of new with old varieties in a single experiment could reveal its real size. Due to the existence of inherent differences among proposed methods and analytical models, it is necessary for researchers that calculate stability indices, and ultimately select the superior genotypes, to dissect their usefulness. Thus, we have collected statistics, as well as models and their equations, to explore these methods further. This review introduces a complete set of parametric and non-parametric methods and models with a selection pattern based on each of them. Furthermore, we have aligned each method or statistic with a matched software, macro codes, and/or scripts.
Synergistic Effects of Salicylic Acid and Melatonin on Modulating Ion Homeostasis in Salt-Stressed Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Plants by Enhancing Root H+-Pump Activity
Authors: Talaat Neveen B. , Shawky Bahaa T.
Published: February 2022

Salicylic acid (SA) and melatonin (MT) have been shown to play important roles in plant salt tolerance. However, the underlying mechanisms of SA–MT-interaction-mediated ionic homeostasis in salt-stressed plants are unknown. As a first investigation, this study aimed to clarify how SA–MT interaction affects H+-pump activity in maintaining the desired ion homeostasis under saline conditions and its relation to ROS metabolism. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plants were grown under non-saline or saline conditions and were foliar sprayed with 75 mg L−1 SA or 70 μM MT. The SA+MT combined treatment significantly increased N, P, K+, Fe, Zn, and Cu acquisition, accompanied by significantly lower Na+ accumulation in salt-stressed plants compared to non-stressed ones. Additionally, it significantly enhanced ATP content and H+-pump activity of the roots. The mitigation was also detected in the reduced superoxide radical content, electrolyte leakage, and lipoxygenase activity, as well as increased superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase activities; K+/Na+, Ca2+/Na+, and Mg2+/Na+ ratios; relative water content; membrane stability index; and free amino acid accumulation in treated plants. The novel evidence shows that the higher root H+-pump activity in treated plants is a tolerance mechanism that increases the salt tolerance via maintaining ionic homeostasis.
Changes of Endophytic Bacterial Community in Mature Leaves of Prunus laurocerasus L. during the Seasonal Transition from Winter Dormancy to Vegetative Growth
Authors: Michalko Jaroslav , Medo Juraj , Ferus Peter , Konôpková Jana , Košútová Dominika , Hoťka Peter , Barta Marek
Published: February 2022

Diverse communities of bacterial endophytes inhabit plant tissues, and these bacteria play important roles for plant growth and health. Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus L.) is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that is widely grown in temperate zones for its ornamental and medicinal properties, however virtually nothing is known about its associated bacterial community. In this study, we analysed the matured one-year-old leaves of this plant using Illumina-based 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding to reveal the community structure of endophytic bacteria and understand its shifts during the seasonal transition from winter dormancy to a spring vegetative state. The overall community was composed of four dominant phyla (Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes). Corynebacterium, Acinetobacter, and Chryseobacterium genera were the most prevalent bacteria, comprising 13.3%, 6.9%, and 6.8% of the amplicon sequence variants (ASVs), respectively. The ASV richness and diversity increased significantly in May as compared to other sampling months (February, March, and April). We observed high variation in the overall community structure of endophytic bacteria among collection dates. The variation was only reflected by a few core community members, suggesting that the changes of the endophytic community during winter/spring seasonal transition are mostly associated with the less abundant community members. We identified biomarker taxa for late winter, mid spring, and late spring collection dates. This study is the first one to report on the diversity and composition of bacterial endophytes in the leaves of cherry laurel and its shifts across the dormancy-to-vegetative seasonal transition.
Sustainable Production of Insecticidal Compounds from Persea indica
Authors: Gonzalez-Coloma Azucena , Andrés María Fe , Contreras Rodrigo , Zúñiga Gustavo E. , Díaz Carmen Elisa
Published: February 2022

In this work, we have investigated the accumulation of ryanoids in different plant parts (leaves, stems and roots) of aeroponically grown Persea indica cloned trees (one-year-old cloned individuals) and a selected mature, wild tree. We tested the insect antifeedant (against Spodoptera littoralis, Myzus persicae and Rhopalosiphum padi) and nematicidal (against Meloidogyne javanica) effects of ethanolic extracts from these different plant parts. The HPLC-MS analysis of P. indica extracts showed that mature tree (wild) leaves had two times more chemical diversity than stems. Aeroponic plants showed fewer differences in chemical diversity between leaves and stems, with the lowest diversity found in the roots. Ryanodane epiryanodol (1) was present in all the plant parts, with the mature stems (wild) containing the highest amount. The aeroponic stems also accumulated ryanoids including 1, cinnzeylanol (2) and cinnzeylanone (4). The insect Spodoptera littoralis was strongly affected by the stem extracts, while leaf extracts were moderately active. Based on predicted vs. real antifeedant values, we concluded that the ryanoid content (1 or a combination of 2, 4 and 1) explained the antifeedant effects of the stem extracts, while additional components contributed to the activity of the leaf extracts. Therefore, careful individual selection of P. indica seedlings should be carried out prior to proceeding with aeroponic cultivation in order to obtain ryanodane-rich stem or leaf extracts with strong antifeedant effects on S. littoralis.
Characterization and Biological Activity of Fiber-Type Cannabis sativa L. Aerial Parts at Different Growth Stages
Authors: Mastellone Giulia , Marengo Arianna , Sgorbini Barbara , Scaglia Federica , Capetti Francesca , Gai Francesco , Peiretti Pier Giorgio , Rubiolo Patrizia , Cagliero Cecilia
Published: February 2022

Currently, there is a renewed interest in cannabis-related products in different fields because of the rich phytocomplex of this plant, together with its fiber and agricultural features. In this context, the current study aims to chemically characterize different samples of fiber-type Cannabis sativa L. grown in Italy as a potential health promoting source. An ultrasound-assisted solid-liquid extraction (UA-SLE) method was first developed and optimized to obtain a fingerprinting of the investigated phytocomplex. Analyses were carried out through an ultra high performance liquid chromatography equipped with a photodiode array detector in series with triple quadrupole system with an electrospray ionization (ESI) interface (UHPLC-UV-ESI-MS/MS) and showed that the phytocomplex mainly includes flavonoids and non-psychotomimetic cannabinoids. The method was then applied to characterize and compare 24 samples of fiber-type Cannabis sativa L. aerial parts (mainly stems and leaves), which differed for the growth stages (from mid-vegetative to early flowering), growth land plots, and methods of drying (forced-draft oven or freeze-drying). The quali-quantitative analysis showed that a freeze-drying method seems to better preserve the chemical composition of the samples, while the location of the land plot and the growth stage of the plant (which did not comprise inflorescences) had minor influences on the chemical pattern. These results were also supported by spectrophotometric in-vitro assays (scavenging of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) and 2,2′-azinobis-3-ethyl-benzthiazoline-6-sulphonate (ABTS+•) radicals and inhibitory activity against tyrosinase and elastase enzymes) to investigate the potential biological activity of these samples and the contribution of non-psychotomimetic cannabinoids.
Differences in Gene Expression of Pear Selections Showing Leaf Curling or Leaf Reddening Symptoms Due to Pear Decline Phytoplasma
Authors: Kaviani Mina , Goodwin Paul H. , Hunter David M.
Published: February 2022

While host gene expression has been related to symptoms associated with different phytoplasma diseases, it is unknown why some phytoplasmas are associated with different symptoms in genotypes of the same plant species. Pear tree selections showed symptoms of either leaf reddening (selection 8824-1) or leaf curling (selection 9328-1) associated with pear decline (PD) phytoplasma presence. PD populations were similar in leaves and shoots of the two selections, but in the roots, populations were significantly lower in selection 8824-1 than in 9328-1, indicating greater resistance. For host carbohydrate metabolism gene expression in PD-infected tissues, significant up-regulation in selection 8824-1 was observed for a sucrose synthase gene in leaves and an acid invertase gene in leaves and roots. These features have been associated with localized higher sugar levels in phytoplasma-infected tissues, and thus may be related to leaf reddening. For host stress/defense response gene expression in PD-infected tissues, significant up-regulation of a phenylalanine ammonia lyase gene was observed in PD-infected shoots of both selections; however, up-regulation of alcohol dehydrogenase gene in shoots, a chitinase gene in all tissues and a phloem protein 2 gene in roots was only observed for selection 8824-1. These changes indicate greater triggered innate immunity in roots associated with lower PD populations and leaf reddening. Leaf reddening may be related to changes in gene expression associated with increased sugar levels in leaves and stronger immune responses in several tissues, while leaf curling may be due to water stress resulting from dysfunctional root associated with higher PD populations in the roots.
Critical Determinants in ER-Golgi Trafficking of Enzymes Involved in Glycosylation
Authors: Zhang Ning , Zabotina Olga A.
Published: February 2022

All living cells generate structurally complex and compositionally diverse spectra of glycans and glycoconjugates, critical for organismal evolution, development, functioning, defense, and survival. Glycosyltransferases (GTs) catalyze the glycosylation reaction between activated sugar and acceptor substrate to synthesize a wide variety of glycans. GTs are distributed among more than 130 gene families and are involved in metabolic processes, signal pathways, cell wall polysaccharide biosynthesis, cell development, and growth. Glycosylation mainly takes place in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi, where GTs and glycosidases involved in this process are distributed to different locations of these compartments and sequentially add or cleave various sugars to synthesize the final products of glycosylation. Therefore, delivery of these enzymes to the proper locations, the glycosylation sites, in the cell is essential and involves numerous secretory pathway components. This review presents the current state of knowledge about the mechanisms of protein trafficking between ER and Golgi. It describes what is known about the primary components of protein sorting machinery and trafficking, which are recognition sites on the proteins that are important for their interaction with the critical components of this machinery.
Genome-Wide Association Study for Resistance to Tan Spot in Synthetic Hexaploid Wheat
Authors: Lozano-Ramírez Nerida , Dreisigacker Susanne , Sansaloni Carolina P. , He Xinyao , Islas Sergio Sandoval , Pérez-Rodríguez Paulino , Carballo Aquiles Carballo , Nava-Díaz Cristian , Kishii Masahiro , Singh Pawan K.
Published: February 2022

Synthetic hexaploid wheat (SHW) has shown effective resistance to a diversity of diseases and insects, including tan spot, which is caused by Pyrenophora tritici-repentis, being an important foliar disease that can attack all types of wheat and several grasses. In this study, 443 SHW plants were evaluated for their resistance to tan spot under controlled environmental conditions. Additionally, a genome-wide association study was conducted by genotyping all entries with the DArTSeq technology to identify marker-trait associations for tan spot resistance. Of the 443 SHW plants, 233 showed resistant and 183 moderately resistant reactions, and only 27 were moderately susceptible or susceptible to tan spot. Durum wheat (DW) parents of the SHW showed moderately susceptible to susceptible reactions. A total of 30 significant marker-trait associations were found on chromosomes 1B (4 markers), 1D (1 marker), 2A (1 marker), 2D (2 markers), 3A (4 markers), 3D (3 markers), 4B (1 marker), 5A (4 markers), 6A (6 markers), 6B (1 marker) and 7D (3 markers). Increased resistance in the SHW in comparison to the DW parents, along with the significant association of resistance with the A and B genome, supported the concept of activating epistasis interaction across the three wheat genomes. Candidate genes coding for F-box and cytochrome P450 proteins that play significant roles in biotic stress resistance were identified for the significant markers. The identified resistant SHW lines can be deployed in wheat breeding for tan spot resistance.
Genome Size and Chromosome Number Evaluation of Astragalus L. sect. Hymenostegis Bunge (Fabaceae)
Authors: Bagheri Ali , Akhavan Roofigar Azadeh , Nemati Zahra , Blattner Frank R.
Published: February 2022

Astragalus section Hymenostegis is one of the important characteristic elements of thorn-cushion formations in the Irano-Turanian floristic region. In this paper, we examined the chromosome number of 17 species (15 new reports) and provide estimates of genome size for 62 individuals belonging to 38 taxa of A. sect. Hymenostegis, some species outside this section, plus two Oxytropis species. Based on chromosome counts 11 species were found to be diploid (2n = 16), four species tetraploid (2n = 32) and two taxa hexaploid (2n = 48). From genome size measurements on silica-gel dried material, three ploidy levels (2x, 4x and 6x) were inferred, with a majority of species being diploid. The 2C values reach from 2.07 pg in diploid Astragalus zohrabi to 7.16 pg in hexaploid A. rubrostriatus. We found indications that species might occur with different cytotypes. A phylogenetic framework using nrDNA ITS sequences was constructed to understand the evolution of ploidy changes and genome sizes. It showed that genome size values among the studied taxa differ only slightly within ploidy levels and are nearly constant within most species and groups of closely related taxa within the genus Astragalus. The results of this study show that there is a rather strong correlation between genome sizes and chromosome numbers in sect. Hymenostegis. The resolution of the ITS-based phylogenetic tree is too low to infer evolutionary or environmental correlations of genome size differences. Polyploidization seems to contribute to the high species number in Astragalus, however, in sect. Hymenostegis it is not the main driver of speciation.
Evaluating Branched Broomrape (Phelipanche ramosa) Management Strategies in California Processing Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Fatino Matthew J. , Hanson Bradley D.
Published: February 2022

Detections of the regulated noxious parasitic weed branched broomrape (Phelipanche ramosa) in California tomato fields have led to interest in eradication, sanitation, and management practices. Researchers in Israel developed a decision-support system and herbicide treatment regime for management of Egyptian broomrape (P. aegyptiaca) in tomato. Research was conducted in 2019 and 2020 to evaluate whether similar treatments could be used to manage branched broomrape in California processing tomatoes and to provide registration support data for the herbicide use pattern. Treatment programs based on preplant incorporated (PPI) sulfosulfuron and chemigated imazapic were evaluated in 2019 and 2020 to determine safety on the processing tomato crop and on common rotational crops. Three single-season tomato safety experiments were conducted and a single rotational crop study was conducted in which a tomato crop received herbicide treatments in 2019 and several common rotational crops were planted and evaluated in 2020 in a site without branched broomrape. In 2020, an efficacy study was conducted in a commercial tomato field known to be infested with branched broomrape to evaluate the efficacy of PPI sulfosulfuron and chemigated imazapic, imazapyr, imazethapyr, and imazamox. After two field seasons, sulfosulfuron and imazapic appeared to have reasonable crop safety on tomato in California; however, rotational crop restrictions will need to be considered if sulfosulfuron is used to manage branched broomrape. In the efficacy study, there was a trend in which the sulfosulfuron and imidazolinone treatments had fewer broomrape shoots per plot than the grower standard treatments, however, none were fully effective and there were no significant differences among the various sulfosulfuron and imidazolinone treatment combinations. Additional research is needed to optimize the treatment timing for management of branched broomrape in this cropping system. Because of registration barriers with imazapic in the California market, future research will focus on treatment combinations of PPI sulfosulfuron and chemigated imazamox rather than imazapic.
Effects of Light Spectral Quality on Photosynthetic Activity, Biomass Production, and Carbon Isotope Fractionation in Lettuce, Lactuca sativa L., Plants
Authors: Tarakanov Ivan G. , Tovstyko Daria A. , Lomakin Maxim P. , Shmakov Alexander S. , Sleptsov Nikolay N. , Shmarev Alexander N. , Litvinskiy Vladimir A. , Ivlev Alexander A.
Published: February 2022

The optimization of plant-specific LED lighting protocols for indoor plant growing systems needs both basic and applied research. Experiments with lettuce, Lactuca sativa L., plants using artificial lighting based on narrow-band LEDs were carried out in a controlled environment. We investigated plant responses to the exclusion of certain spectral ranges of light in the region of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR); in comparison, the responses to quasimonochromatic radiation in the red and blue regions were studied separately. The data on plant phenotyping, photosynthetic activity determination, and PAM fluorometry, indicating plant functional activity and stress responses to anomalous light environments, are presented. The study on carbon isotopic composition of photoassimilates in the diel cycle made it possible to characterize the balance of carboxylation and photorespiration processes in the leaves, using a previously developed oscillatory model of photosynthesis. Thus, the share of plant photorespiration (related to plant biomass enrichment with 13C) increased in response to red-light action, while blue light accelerated carboxylation (related to 12C enrichment). Blue light also reduced water use efficiency. These data are supported by the observations from the light environments missing distinct PAR spectrum regions. The fact that light of different wavelengths affects the isotopic composition of total carbon allowed us to elucidate the nature of its action on the organization of plant metabolism.
Silver Nanoparticle Production Mediated by Vitis vinifera Cane Extract: Characterization and Antibacterial Activity Evaluation
Authors: Michailidu Jana , Maťátková Olga , Kolouchová Irena , Masák Jan , Čejková Alena
Published: February 2022

The ever-growing range of possible applications of nanoparticles requires their mass production. However, there are problems resulting from the prevalent methods of nanoparticle production; physico-chemical routes of nanoparticle synthesis are not very environmentally friendly nor cost-effective. Due to this, the scientific community started exploring new methods of nanoparticle assembly with the aid of biological agents. In this study, ethanolic Vitis vinifera cane extract combined with silver nitrate was used to produce silver nanoparticles. These were subsequently characterized using UV-visible (UV-Vis) spectrometry, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light-scattering analysis. The antimicrobial activity of produced nanoparticles was tested against the planktonic cells of five strains of Gram-negative bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PAO1, ATCC 10145, ATCC 15442, DBM 3081, and DBM 3777). After that, bactericidal activity was assessed using solid medium cultivation. In the end, nanoparticles’ inhibitory effect on adhering cells was analyzed by measuring changes in metabolic activity (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay-MTT). Our results confirmed that ethanolic Vitis vinifera cane extract is capable of mediating silver nanoparticle production; synthesis was conducted using 10% of extract and 1 mM of silver nitrate. The silver nanoparticles’ Z-average was 68.2 d nm, and their zeta potential was –30.4 mV. These silver nanoparticles effectively inhibited planktonic cells of all P. aeruginosa strains in concentrations less than 5% v/v and inhibited biofilm formation in concentrations less than 6% v/v. Moreover, minimum bactericidal concentration was observed to be in the range of 10–16% v/v. According to the results in this study, the use of wine agriculture waste is an ecological and economical method for the production of silver nanoparticles exhibiting significant antimicrobial properties.
Controlling Woody Weed Chinese Elm (Celtis sinensis Pers.) with Stem-Implanted Herbicide Capsules
Authors: O’Brien Ciara Jade , Mellor Vincent , Galea Victor Joseph
Published: February 2022

Chinese elm [Celtis sinensis Pers.] is an emerging environmental weed naturalised throughout the coastal and riparian (creek-banks, river margins, and streams) regions of eastern Australia. Throughout this introduced range, its management is limited to the application of synthetic herbicides and mechanical clearing operations (terrain and soil type permitting). The current mechanisms of chemical control (basal bark spraying, stem-injection, and cut-stump applications) often result in collateral damage to non-target native species (such as Eucalyptus spp. and Casuarina cunninghamiana Miq.) through herbicidal drift, runoff or leaching into adjacent habitats. This has raised concerns regarding the suitability of synthetic herbicides in ecologically sensitive (e.g., riparian zones, rainforest margins, and woodlands) or low-value habitats, thereby promoting significant developments in the fields of integrated weed management. This study investigated the effectiveness of a novel stem-implantation system for controlling woody weed species in the context of a conserved habitat. A replicated trial (n = 315) was established among a naturally occurring population of C. sinensis. This trial involved the mapping, measurement, and treatment of this invasive species with five encapsulated synthetic herbicides, as well as an untreated control and benchmark treatment (diesel + AccessTM). A significant effect (p < 0.05) on plant vigour and functional canopy was discerned for each assessment period following trial establishment. The highest incidence of mortality was observed among the individuals treated with glyphosate (245 mg/capsule), aminopyralid and metsulfuron-methyl (58.1 and 37.5 mg/capsule) and picloram (10 mg/capsule), achieving a similar response to the basal bark application of diesel and AccessTM (240 g/L triclopyr, 120 g/L picloram, and 389 g/L liquid hydrocarbon). This was also evidenced by a rapid reduction in functional canopy (i.e., no or little living leaf tissue) from three weeks after treatment. Unlike their industry counterparts, these encapsulated herbicides are immediately sealed into the vascular system of the target species by a plug. This significantly minimises the possibility of environmental or operator exposure to synthetic compounds by providing a targeted, readily calibrated herbicide application.
Distribution of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Plant Parts and Populations of Seven Underutilized Wild Achillea Species
Authors: Raudone Lina , Radušiene Jolita , Seyis Fatih , Yayla Fatih , Vilkickyte Gabrielė , Marksa Mindaugas , Ivanauskas Liudas , Cırak Cüneyt
Published: February 2022

Evaluation of phytochemical composition of underutilized Achillea species provides the primary selection of germplasms with the desired quality of raw material for their further applications. The aim of the study was to evaluate the comprehensive distribution patterns of phenolic compounds in seven wild Achillea spp. and their plant parts, and to assess their antioxidant activity. Plant material was collected from different sites in Turkey. A complex of hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonols and flavones was identified and quantified in methanolic extracts using HPLC-PDA method. Antioxidant activity was assessed by radical scavenging assay. The results showed that qualitative and qualitative profiles of caffeoylquinic acids and flavonoids were species-specific, explaining the characteristic patterns of their variation in the corresponding species and plant parts. The highest total amount of caffeoylquinic acids was detected in A. setacea. A. arabica exposed the highest accumulation of mono-caffeoylquinic acids and flavonoids with the greatest levels of quercetin and luteolin derivatives and the flavonol santin. Santin was detected in all plant parts of A. cappadocica, A. setacea, A. santolinoides subsp. wilhelmsii, and A. arabica. A notable antiradical capacity was confirmed in A. arabica, A. setacea and A. cappadocica plant extracts. The leaves of all studied species were found to have priority over inflorescences and stems in terms of radical scavenging activity. The new data complemented the information that may be relevant for the continuation of chemophenetic studies in the heterogeneous genus Achillea.
Monoterpene Synthase Genes and Monoterpene Profiles in Pinus nigra subsp. laricio
Authors: Alicandri Enrica , Covino Stefano , Sebastiani Bartolomeo , Paolacci Anna Rita , Badiani Maurizio , Sorgonà Agostino , Ciaffi Mario
Published: February 2022

In the present study, we carried out a quantitative analysis of the monoterpenes composition in different tissues of the non-model conifer Pinus nigra J.F. Arnold subsp. laricio Palib. ex Maire (P. laricio, in short). All the P. laricio tissues examined showed the presence of the same fourteen monoterpenes, among which the most abundant were β-phellandrene, α-pinene, and β-pinene, whose distribution was markedly tissue-specific. In parallel, from the same plant tissues, we isolated seven full-length cDNA transcripts coding for as many monoterpene synthases, each of which was found to be attributable to one of the seven phylogenetic groups in which the d1-clade of the canonical classification of plants’ terpene synthases can be subdivided. The amino acid sequences deduced from the above cDNA transcripts allowed to predict their putative involvement in the biosynthesis of five of the monoterpenes identified. Transcripts profiling revealed a differential gene expression across the different tissues examined, and was found to be consistent with the corresponding metabolites profiles. The genomic organization of the seven isolated monoterpene synthase genes was also determined.
Antidiabetic Activity and In Silico Molecular Docking of Polyphenols from Ammannia baccifera L. subsp. Aegyptiaca (Willd.) Koehne Waste: Structure Elucidation of Undescribed Acylated Flavonol Diglucoside
Authors: Swilam Noha , Nawwar Mahmoud A. M. , Radwan Rasha A. , Mostafa Eman S.
Published: February 2022

Chemical investigation of the aerial parts of Ammania aegyptiaca ethanol extract (AEEE) showed high concentrations of polyphenol and flavonoid content, with notable antioxidant activity. Undescribed acylated diglucoside flavonol myricetin 3-O-β-4C1-(6″-O-galloyl glucopyranoside) 7-O-β-4C1-glucopyranoside (MGGG) was isolated from the aerial parts of AEEE, along with four known polyphenols that had not been characterized previously from AEEE. The inhibitory effects of MGGG, AEEE, and all compounds against α-amylase, pancreatic lipase and β-glucosidase were assessed. In addition, molecular docking was used to determine the inhibition of digestive enzymes, and this confirmed that the MGGG interacted strongly with the active site residues of these enzymes, with the highest binding free energy against α-amylase (−8.99 kcal/mol), as compared to the commercial drug acarbose (−5.04 kcal/mol), thus justifying its use in the potential management of diabetes. In streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats, AEEE significantly decreased high serum glucose, α-amylase activity and serum liver and kidney function markers, as well as increasing insulin blood level. Moreover, AEEE improved the lipid profile of diabetic animals, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and inhibited lipid peroxidation. Histopathological studies proved the decrease in pancreas damage and supported the biochemical findings. These results provide evidence that AEEE and MGGG possess potent antidiabetic activity, which warrants additional investigation.
Functional Antagonism of WRI1 and TCP20 Modulates GH3.3 Expression to Maintain Auxin Homeostasis in Roots
Authors: Kong Que , Low Pui Man , Lim Audrey R. Q. , Yang Yuzhou , Yuan Ling , Ma Wei
Published: February 2022

Auxin is a well-studied phytohormone, vital for diverse plant developmental processes. The GH3 genes are one of the major auxin responsive genes, whose expression changes lead to modulation of plant development and auxin homeostasis. However, the transcriptional regulation of these GH3 genes remains largely unknown. WRI1 is an essential transcriptional regulator governing plant fatty acid biosynthesis. Recently, we identified that the expression of GH3.3 is increased in the roots of wri1-1 mutant. Nevertheless, in this study we found that AtWRI1 did not activate or repress the promoter of GH3.3 (proGH3.3) despite of its binding to proGH3.3. Cross-family transcription factor interactions play pivotal roles in plant gene regulatory networks. To explore the molecular mechanism by which WRI1 controls GH3.3 expression, we screened an Arabidopsis transcription factor library and identified TCP20 as a novel AtWRI1-interacting regulator. The interaction between AtWRI1 and TCP20 was further verified by several approaches. Importantly, we found that TCP20 directly regulates GH3.3 expression via binding to TCP binding element. Furthermore, AtWRI1 repressed the TCP20-mediated transactivation of proGH3.3. EMSAs demonstrated that AtWRI1 antagonized TCP20 from binding to proGH3.3. Collectively, we provide new insights that WRI1 attenuates GH3.3 expression through interaction with TCP20, highlighting a new mechanism that contributes to fine-tuning auxin homeostasis.
Evaluation and Characterization of Ultrathin Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) Fibers Loaded with Tetraphenylporphyrin and Its Complexes with Fe(III) and Sn(IV)
Authors: Karpova Svetlana G. , Chumakova Natalia A. , Lobanov Anton V. , Olkhov Anatoly A. , Vetcher Alexandre A. , Iordanskii Alexey L.
Published: February 2022

The effect of small additions (1–5 wt.%) of tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) and its complexes with Fe (III) and Sn (IV) on the structure and properties of ultrathin fibers based on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) has been studied. A comprehensive study of biopolymer compositions included X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), spin probe electron paramagnetic resonance method (EPR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was demonstrated that the addition of these dopants to the PHB fibers modifies their morphology, crystallinity and segmental dynamics in the amorphous regions. The annealing at 140 °C affects crystallinity and molecular mobility in the amorphous regions of the fibers, however the observed changes exhibit multidirectional behavior, depending on the type of porphyrin and its concentration in the fiber. Fibers exposure to an aqueous medium at 70 °C causes a nonlinear change in the enthalpy of melting and challenging nature of a change of the molecular dynamics.
Essential Work of Fracture and Evaluation of the Interfacial Adhesion of Plasticized PLA/PBSA Blends with the Addition of Wheat Bran By-Product
Authors: Aliotta Laura , Vannozzi Alessandro , Cinelli Patrizia , Coltelli Maria-Beatrice , Lazzeri Andrea
Published: February 2022

In this work biocomposites based on plasticized poly(lactic acid) (PLA)–poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PBSA) matrix containing wheat bran fiber (a low value by-product of food industry) were investigated. The effect of the bran addition on the mechanical properties is strictly correlated to the fiber-matrix adhesion and several analytical models, based on static and dynamic tests, were applied in order to estimate the interfacial shear strength of the biocomposites. Finally, the essential work of fracture approach was carried out to investigate the effect of the bran addition on composite fracture toughness.
Effect of Architected Structural Members on the Viscoelastic Response of 3D Printed Simple Cubic Lattice Structures
Authors: Abusabir Ahmed , Khan Muhammad A. , Asif Muhammad , Khan Kamran A.
Published: February 2022

Three-dimensional printed polymeric lattice structures have recently gained interests in several engineering applications owing to their excellent properties such as low-density, energy absorption, strength-to-weight ratio, and damping performance. Three-dimensional (3D) lattice structure properties are governed by the topology of the microstructure and the base material that can be tailored to meet the application requirement. In this study, the effect of architected structural member geometry and base material on the viscoelastic response of 3D printed lattice structure has been investigated. The simple cubic lattice structures based on plate-, truss-, and shell-type structural members were used to describe the topology of the cellular solid. The proposed lattice structures were fabricated with two materials, i.e., PLA and ABS using the material extrusion (MEX) process. The quasi-static compression response of lattice structures was investigated, and mechanical properties were obtained. Then, the creep, relaxation and cyclic viscoelastic response of the lattice structure were characterized. Both material and topologies were observed to affect the mechanical properties and time-dependent behavior of lattice structure. Plate-based lattices were found to possess highest stiffness, while the highest viscoelastic behavior belongs to shell-based lattices. Among the studied lattice structures, we found that the plate-lattice is the best candidate to use as a creep-resistant LS and shell-based lattice is ideal for damping applications under quasi-static loading conditions. The proposed analysis approach is a step forward toward understanding the viscoelastic tolerance design of lattice structures.
Mechanical and Thermal Behaviours of Weft-Knitted Spacer Fabric Structure with Inlays for Insole Applications
Authors: Li Nga-Wun , Yick Kit-Lun , Yu Annie , Ning Sen
Published: February 2022

Insoles provide resistance to ground reaction forces and comfort during walking. In this study, a novel weft-knitted spacer fabric structure with inlays for insoles is proposed which not only absorbs shock and resists pressure, but also allows heat dissipation for enhanced thermal comfort. The results show that the inlay density and spacer yarn increase compression resistance and reduce impact forces. The increased spacer yarn density provides better air permeability but reduces thermal resistance, while a lower inlay density with a random orientation reduces the evaporative resistance. The proposed structure has significantly positive implications for insole applications.
Phase Change Material Evolution in Thermal Energy Storage Systems for the Building Sector, with a Focus on Ground-Coupled Heat Pumps
Authors: Barbi Silvia , Barbieri Francesco , Marinelli Simona , Rimini Bianca , Merchiori Sebastiano , Bottarelli Michele , Montorsi Monia
Published: February 2022

The building sector is responsible for a third of the global energy consumption and a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions. Phase change materials (PCMs) have shown high potential for latent thermal energy storage (LTES) through their integration in building materials, with the aim of enhancing the efficient use of energy. Although research on PCMs began decades ago, this technology is still far from being widespread. This work analyses the main contributions to the employment of PCMs in the building sector, to better understand the motivations behind the restricted employment of PCM-based LTES technologies. The main research and review studies are critically discussed, focusing on: strategies used to regulate indoor thermal conditions, the variation of mechanical properties in PCMs-based mortars and cements, and applications with ground-coupled heat pumps. The employment of materials obtained from wastes and natural sources was also taken in account as a possible key to developing composite materials with good performance and sustainability at the same time. As a result, the integration of PCMs in LTES is still in its early stages, but reveals high potential for employment in the building sector, thanks to the continuous design improvement and optimization driven by high-performance materials and a new way of coupling with tailored envelopes.
Rheology and Tack Properties of Biodegradable Isodimorphic Poly(butylene succinate)-Ran-Poly(ε-caprolactone) Random Copolyesters and Their Potential Use as Adhesives
Authors: Sandoval Aleida J. , Fernández María Mercedes , Candal María Virginia , Safari Maryam , Santamaria Antxon , Müller Alejandro J.
Published: February 2022

The sole effect of the microstructure of biodegradable isodimorphic poly(butylene succinate)-ran-poly(ε-caprolactone) random copolyesters on their rheological properties is investigated. To avoid the effect of molecular weight and temperature, two rheological procedures are considered: the activation energy of flow, Ea, and the phase angle versus complex modulus plots. An unexpected variation of both parameters with copolyester composition is observed, with respective maximum and minimum values for the 50/50 composition. This might be due to the peculiar chain configurations of the copolymers that vary as a function of comonomer distribution within the chains. The same chain configuration variations are responsible for the isodimorphic character of the copolymers in the crystalline state. Tack tests, performed to study the viability of the copolyesters as environmentally friendly hot melt adhesives (HMA), reveal a correlation with rheological results. Tackiness parameters, particularly the energy of adhesion obtained from stress-strain curves during debonding experiments, are enhanced as melt elasticity increases. Based on the carried-out analysis, the link microstructure-rheology-tackiness is established, allowing selecting the best performing HMA sample considering the polymer chemistry of the system.
Soluble Poly(amide-imide)s from Diamide–Diamine Monomer with Trifluoromethyl Groups
Authors: Byun Taejoon , Kim Seong Jong , Kim Sang Youl
Published: February 2022

A series of soluble aromatic poly(amide-imide)s (PAIs) was prepared from a new diamide–diamine monomer having biphenyl units with two CF3 groups. The diamide–diamine monomer was polymerized with 2,2′-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzidine and pyromelltic dianhydride through an imidization reaction to prepare PAIs with a controlled imide/amide bond ratio in the main chains. While the PAIs with the highest imide bond content showed a limited solubility, other PAIs were soluble in polar organic solvents and can be solution-cast into flexible freestanding films. All PAIs exhibited high thermal stability with 5% weight loss temperature (Td5) from 464 to 497 °C in air, and no appearance of glass transition up to 400 °C. Notably, the linear coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) value of the PAI films was linearly decreased with the imide bond content and varied from 44.8 to 7.8 ppm/°C.
Improved Production and Insulinotropic Properties of Exopolysaccharide by Phellinus igniarius in Submerged Cultures
Authors: Lung Ming-Yu , Deng Kai-Wen
Published: February 2022

Phellinu igniarius (P. igniarius), a basidiomycete belonging to the family Polyporaceae, is a medicinal basidiomycetous fungus belonging to the Hymenochaetaceae and is an excellent remedy with anticancer and antioxidant qualities. The mushroom has been used as traditional medicines for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, tuberculosis, liver or heart diseases, bellyache, bloody gonorrhea, and diabetes. However, the limited production and market shortage have been attributed to the slow growth and the difficult collection of the fruiting body as well as the rare natural resources. The problem can be solved through the effective approach of submerged culture to produce a high bioactivity polysaccharide of P. igniarius. The project was proposed to investigate the effect of a surfactant on the production of polysaccharide in submerged culture of P. igniarius and their insulinotropic properties. Eight different surfactants including PEG series (4000, 6000), Tween series (20, 40, 80, 85), and Span series (20, 80) all at a concentration of 0.5 g/L were supplemented in turn to the basal medium in shake flasks. Among the various surfactants tested, Tween 80 exhibited the greatest exopolysaccharide production of 128.43 mg/L, and PEG 6000 showed the maximum biomass of 6.76 mg/mL. To find the optimal Tween 80 concentration for biomass and exopolysaccharide production, different Tween 80 levels (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2 g/L) were used in the medium. The maximal exopolysaccharide production of 132.76 mg/mL was achieved with the addition of 0.6 g/L of Tween 80 to the medium. The experimental results exhibited that the maximum of mycelia production in a stirred tank bioreactor was 3.01 mg/mL at Tween 80 0.2 g/L. In this study, their compounds, molecular weight, and protein content from fermentation product extracts were also tested. The average molecular weights of exopolysaccharide and intracellular polysaccharide were 1.715 × 106 Da and 4.87 × 105 Da, respectively. The protein contents of exopolysaccharide and intracellular polysaccharide were about 3.68% and 3.02%. The maximum RINm5F cell proliferations of exopolysaccharide and intracellular polysaccharide at 2 mg/mL were 142.3% and 120.07%, respectively. Cell proliferations of exopolysaccharide and intracellular polysaccharide increased with their concentrations. The maximum insulin secretion of exopolysaccharide at 2 mg/mL on RINm5F cell insulin was 0.615 μg/L.
Towards Autonomous Process Control—Digital Twin for CHO Cell-Based Antibody Manufacturing Using a Dynamic Metabolic Model
Authors: Helgers Heribert , Schmidt Axel , Strube Jochen
Published: February 2022

The development of new biologics is becoming more challenging due to global competition and increased requirements for process understanding and assured quality in regulatory approval. As a result, there is a need for predictive, mechanistic process models. These reduce the resources and time required in process development, generating understanding, expanding the possible operating space, and providing the basis for a digital twin for automated process control. Monoclonal antibodies are an important representative of industrially produced biologics that can be used for a wide range of applications. In this work, the validation of a mechanistic process model with respect to sensitivity, as well as accuracy and precision, is presented. For the investigated process conditions, the concentration of glycine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and glutamine have been identified as significant influencing factors for product formation via statistical evaluation. Cell growth is, under the investigated process conditions, significantly dependent on the concentration of glucose within the investigated design space. Other significant amino acids were identified. A Monte Carlo simulation was used to simulate the cultivation run with an optimized medium resulting from the sensitivity analysis. The precision of the model was shown to have a 95% confidence interval. The model shown here includes the implementation of cell death in addition to models described in the literature.